Dear Birth Mother,

Your decision to bring a child into this world and allow another family to care for him or her is a courageous one. We would be honored to nurture and care for your child. The purpose of this letter is for us to introduce you to our family and give you an idea of how we would love and care for your child.

About Us
Richard and I met 12 years ago while attending graduate school. We became fast friends and married about a year and a half later. One of our favorite activities back then was to take long walks. These walks enabled us to discuss our interests and goals and create a strong foundation for our relationship. We still spend a lot of time sharing with each other. This is how we communicate, make decisions and strengthen our relationship. One thing we talked about is how we wanted a family.

We tried for four years to have children and were finally blessed with Melissa, our five year-old daughter, with the help of doctors. We have not been able to have children since and long to have a larger family. Becoming a family has strengthened our relationship even more. As a family, we have so much love to offer. We have no doubt that your child will grow and prosper with the unconditional love we have to give.

Richard, Leslie and Melissa on a family ski trip.

Our life as a family is full. We enjoy many activities such as skiing, hiking, swimming, playing tennis and going to museums, plays and the symphony together. Richard and I feel that these physical and cultural activities enrich our lives and wish for our children to have the same experience. We are committed to supporting them in developing their interests and talents. Our family also enjoys fun vacations--from visiting family in Germany to driving down to San Diego for a weekend. Richard and I value these trips and want our children to have the opportunity to experience other cultures.

Our family also likes to just be at home—spending time around the piano (especially during the holidays singing and playing Christmas songs), reading books, baking treats or making cards for new neighbors or friends that need a boost, and playing with our Springer Spaniel, Spence. He is a lot of fun and is great with kids.

Richard, by Leslie
Richard has so many characteristics that make him a wonderful father and husband. He is patient, a good listener, very sensitive to the needs of others and a good negotiator. These qualities enable him to let Melissa know that she is loved but to also guide her. For example, he has patiently listened and helped her solve difficulties that she has experienced as a developing toddler whether it’s communicating her feelings or learning to climb or kick a ball.

Richard feeding the giraffes at the wild animal park

Richard has been a very involved parent from the start—from burping and changing diapers to helping Melissa to ride a bike. He loves spending time with her whether it’s playing at the playground, reading books, or kicking a soccer ball around. He comments to me continually on how much he enjoys being a father and how he would love more children. Your child will have his undivided attention.

Richard works at a company that leases and re-sells computer equipment. He loves what he does. It shows in how hard he works. His hard work enables him to provide for our family and we are fortunate that I am able to be a stay at home mom.

Leslie, by Richard
Leslie and I have been married for 11 years. She is an incredible blessing to me and to our daughter. I remember thinking some years ago that if only our marriage could stay as good as it was, I would be happy for the rest of my life. The reality is that it has gotten better. There are two things that have made it better. One is sharing the joys of life and the other is making difficult decisions and over coming challenges. Let me tell you about her.

Leslie is the anchor in our home. She provides it with love, order and stability. Leslie comes from an incredible family that provided her with stability and consistency through out her whole life. This is something that I wanted in the woman that I was to marry. I wanted this for myself and I wanted it for the children that I hoped we would have.

Leslie sets a great example for all with whom she comes in contact. She has the right priorities. Let me give you two examples. Leslie had a very promising career in commercial banking. She has her bachelor and masters degree in business. Yet when we were married, she decided that the right thing for our family would be if she stayed home to take care of our children. I can’t tell you how humbled I am by her sacrifice. It is important for you to know that your child will not be raised in day care centers or by baby sitters. Rather, he or she will be raised by a very educated, loving and adventuresome full-time mom.

Melissa and Richard playing bacchi ball

Leslie is patient, kind and committed to teaching new skills to our children. She enjoys playing the piano and singing with Melissa. They also enjoy art projects, puzzles, and even bug collecting at the park. Although Leslie enjoyed her professional life, she has never looked back. She relishes her time with Melissa and would be honored to enable your child to enjoy the same experiences.

Our Goals and Beliefs
We have completed a home study that assesses the stability of our family and the safety of our home. Richard and I have also established an investment fund for our children to further their education after high school, if they so desire. Through our educational experiences, we not only grew intellectually, but also learned how to work with and value the opinions of others. Because of these experiences, we will fully encourage and support our children in pursuing their occupational interests after high school.

As you can see, our beliefs in fostering a strong family are the core of who we are and how we live our lives. We look forward to having more children and sharing the love and opportunities we have to offer.

Leslie and Melissa decorating a gingerbread house

Our Promise to You
Most importantly, you should know that if Richard and I were chosen to raise your child, we would speak of you often and it would be only in the most reverent and loving terms. Your child would know how hard a decision this was for you and how much it shows your love for him or her. We would want your child to be proud of you, of having been adopted and being a part of our family. We would communicate with you through letters and pictures, sharing your child’s growth and experiences, if you desire.

If you would like to learn more about us, please contact Cindy Simonson at
A Act of Caring, (800) 556-5635. We wish you the best and would welcome the opportunity to meet you.

Sincerely,