Melissa and Sam

It is hard to know where to start on such an important letter. Please know that no matter what, our hearts and thoughts are with you as you make a very difficult decision.

Our names are Sam and Melissa. We were married almost a year to the day after our first date. On that first date I knew Melissa was the one. Melissa, not so much. But I either really turned on the charm – or wore Melissa down. It was unbelievable how much we had in common.

My plan was to ask her to marry me on an airplane after visiting my parents out of town. Not that I’m superstitious, but I knew she’d says yes to my popping the question when we arrived at the airport and found us on flight 7-7-7. So when Melissa wasn’t looking I handed the pilot a note – you probably can’t do that anymore – and asked him to read it over the intercom. The note was the pilot actually asking Melissa for me. She said yes. The passengers applauded. It was pretty neat.

We’ve been married and going strong for more than six years. We are truly each others best friends and soul mates. Looking at it we were always just meant to be.

Sam’s parents live in Pennsylvania. He has one brother. My family is from Dallas. I have two brothers – both who were adopted by my dad when he married our mom. We both come from close knit families. When we’re all together our families get along so great. That’s really not surprising because Sam and I both came from similar family backgrounds. We were both raised with strong family values. Our families are a very important part of our lives. Both of our families are very supportive of us adopting and are eager to welcome a baby into all of our lives.

We’ve been blessed with an amazing daughter named Ariel. She’s four years old and is a gentle and loving little girl who loves to laugh and play. While Ariel has lots of cousins to play with, it’s just not the same as having a brother or sister. She is very excited about the opportunity to become a big sister. She frequently asks when a baby will come to live with her. She’s got a room picked out and everything. We know she’ll be an awesome big sister.

We also have a little puppy dog named Snickers. He’s a very cool, very playful and very smart little dog. Sometimes we’re not sure who’s in charge of our house, us, Ariel or Snickers.

Melissa works in Human Resources. I am in Sports Marketing. We’re lucky that we both have really great jobs, but the best part is that our jobs are flexible to where we can spend quality time at home all together. When we’re playing around at home some of our favorites are swimming in the pool or doing art projects or playing hide and seek. We also participate with Ariel in her school’s activities, whether it’s Sam reading to Ariel’s class or me attending Ariel’s class plays.

There are many things that brought us to Hope Cottage. Due to complications in pregnancy we are unable to have more children. Having an opportunity to expand our family is something we’ve always wanted. We have lots to offer, but most importantly lots of love and friendship.

Thanks so much for considering us. We realize there are many ways you can go. Regardless of your decision, we wish you love and peace.

All the best – Sam and Melissa