Dear Expectant Parents,

            First of all, I want to thank you for choosing to give your baby life.  I also appreciate the thoughtful and selfless way you are deciding to do what’s best for your baby.  I want to thank you for taking the time to read my letter.  I hope I may be able to give you a picture of what my life is like–to help you make a good decision for your baby.

The Decision to Adopt... and Me as a Mom                                       

I have wanted to be a mother ever since I was a little girl.  I spent hours and hours “playing dolls” with my older sister and creating scenarios of our “lives” with our eleven “children” each!  I decided to start to build my family now–even though I have not yet met the person I want to marry.  I am so happy and grateful that I have the option of becoming a mother through adoption.  I think that this is exactly the way my life was meant to turn out.

Family Includes Grandma...

Please know that my child will not just have me as his or her family.  I am part of a larger family of two sisters, one brother, a mother, father, and two nieces and one nephew (so far!).  My child will grow up getting to know his or her grandmother well, as my mom lives just 30 minutes away.  She loves being a grandma and enjoys making quilts and picture memory books for each grandchild. She has offered to take care of the baby a few days per week when I return to work (after a few months off) and will provide support and help as needed.

Aunts, Uncles, Grandpa, and Cousins...

            My sisters and their families come to North Carolina as much as they are able.  It’s a little crazy and amusing with a six-year-old and two 2-year-olds running around Grandma’s house. (Last year at Christmas, my niece decided to paint Grandma’s walls with her spaghetti!)  My brother currently lives in Japan but will be moving back in a year or two.  My dad comes out to visit at least once a year or we have reunions at his house.

And an Even Bigger “Family”

            I am also part of a large church “family.”  Through my church,  I work with the nursery children and  have the support of other members and church leaders.  I have met others in my church who have been touched by adoption and have been able to talk to them about their experiences.

Children of all ages fill the congregation and get to enjoy many church activities and programs.  Both male and female teachers and leaders provide guidance and act as good role models.   I also hope to teach good morals and values at home.  I have a spiritual foundation that provides me with comfort and stability.