Dear Friends,
By now, you likely have
read tens if not hundreds of similar letters. We sincerely appreciate you
taking the time to read this one as well. We hope it helps you get to know us a
little better and understand why family (and adoption) are so important to us.
The two of us met
during law school. Sara had previously graduated in Chemical Engineering and
Tyson in Journalism. It seems like fate brought us together; Tyson had a desk
next to a high-school friend of Sara’s and we were soon introduced. We started
out as friends, then dated, and were married in the Bountiful, Utah temple
after both of us had graduated and were working as attorneys. Tyson works at a
mid-size law firm in downtown Salt Lake City and enjoys the benefits of being a
partner. Sara develops and supports legal software. It is a unique position
that allows her to work from home and gives here an extreme amount of
flexibility. Tyson often says he is jealous that Sara gets to work in her
pajamas and spend the entire day with our new puppy, Frost.
We both grew up in
loving families and are fortunate to spend nearly every Sunday (and many other
days) with parents, siblings, and other relatives, all of whom live close by.
Our parents have always provided good advice and have been supportive in all we
have done. Our goal is to do the same with our children; we want to give them
the same opportunities that were given to us.
About five years ago,
we attempted to start our family. Despite our prayers, and those of many family
members and friends, coupled with nearly every medical treatment available, we
were unsuccessful and our doctors concluded it was unlikely that we would ever
get pregnant. The news was devastating. But we remain confident that we were
meant to have a family. And now we are fortunate to have the opportunity to
adopt and hopefully bless the lives of all those involved.
Despite our difficult
struggle with infertility, we truly do live blessed lives, and have really
enjoyed marriage. We own our own home in a wonderful neighborhood, have
well-paying jobs we enjoy, take time to have fun together (usually movies,
sporting events, and a variety of other activities), are active in our ward (we
are in the YM and YW programs right now), have been able to take many fun trips
together, and spend time with our family and friends.
Tyson is a sports nut.
He grew up playing everything: baseball, basketball, football, soccer, etc. (and
since his dad was often the coach, he got a lot of playing time). He is an avid
skier, and also enjoys rock climbing and cycling. Tyson brags that, in high
school, he went skiing over 100 times in the same year! But the one word that
best describes Tyson is “funny.” Everyone around him is always entertained and
laughing (or, at least, as Tyson puts it, he hopes so). One of the reasons Sara
wanted to marry Tyson was that she knew he would make a wonderful father – the
kind that would be excited to coach little-league teams; show up to all school
events, performances, and games; be eager to spend hours playing with their
kids; and would be full of love. Sara likes to tease Tyson that he has a ‘fan
club’ in our ward – he is like a kid magnet and kids come over to talk, borrow
books, get tutored, or even ask him to ride bikes or play soccer.
Sara is full of
surprises. She can cook, or, when in the mood to use power tools, can rebuild
an entire deck. She can craft or teach math to college kids. When it comes to
service, there are few better. She is eager to offer kind words, a listening
ear, or even a meal if that is what is needed. At the same time, she never
hesitates to (try to) destroy Tyson in foosball or Just Dance 3. In looking for
a wife, Tyson wanted to find someone he loved and someone who would serve as an
excellent example for their kids. Sara is that person. She is smart, well
educated, and represents all the qualities you would expect in a great mother.
She is a great example to everyone around her. And to think, all of this from a
chemical engineer, computer programmer, and lawyer!
We love going to sports
events together, whether it is college football, college basketball, baseball,
soccer, or even rugby. Admittedly, Tyson probably enjoys this more than Sara,
but Sara loves spending time with Tyson, so it works out well. We also enjoy
going to the movies, musicals and plays, and even the symphony on occasion.
Admittedly, Sara probably enjoys this more than Tyson, but Tyson loves spending
time with Sara, so it also works out well. We like to travel, play games, and
spend time with loved ones. We cannot wait to share these experiences with our
child.
We have been hoping,
praying and preparing for a little one. We believe we have much love and many
opportunities to provide. We also know that many others (including family,
friends, and neighbors) have been hoping and praying along with us. A family in
our ward recently told us that their 8-year-old was upset when his parents
forgot to pray for “Tyson and Sara to find a baby” during their prayer. So
cute. It is stories like these that make us look forward to finally adopting a
baby and having a family.
We recognize the
difficult decisions you currently face. A child truly is a miracle. It is our
hope that we can bless you and your child’s life through adoption. To the
extent you desire, we will keep you updated with news and pictures of the life
and opportunities we can provide; we understand the importance of an open
adoption. So thank you. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about us. And most importantly,
thank you for your consideration in helping us start the family we know is
waiting for us.
Sincerely, Tyson and
Sara
(p.s., thanks again!)
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