Mike and Elise

To a very special person, we are Elise and Mike from Texas. We hope this letter finds you well and surrounded by love and support. 

We’re a couple who has been on an incredible journey together for the past nine years. Our friendship laid the foundation, and our love blossomed as we navigated life’s joys and challenges side by side. In 2019, we sealed our bond in marriage, knowing that our future would be filled with love, laughter, and the dream of starting a family. Adoption has always held a special place in our hearts. We have been blessed with remarkable friendships with adopted individuals, and they have shown us the depth and beauty of love that knows no biological boundaries.

TO A VERY SPECIAL PERSON,

- WE ARE -

ELISE &

MIKE

from TEXAS

WE HOPE THIS LETTER FINDS YOU WELL AND SURROUNDED BY LOVE AND SUPPORT.

We’re a couple who has been on an incredible journey together for the past nine years. Our friendship laid the foundation, and our love blossomed as we navigated life’s joys and challenges side by side. In 2019, we sealed our bond in marriage, knowing that our future would be filled with love, laughter, and the dream of starting a family. Adoption has always held a special place in our hearts. We have been blessed with remarkable friendships with adopted individuals, and they have shown us the depth and beauty of love that knows no biological boundaries.

In our home, your child will be safe, nurtured, and loved. We are thrilled about the possibility of open adoption, as we believe it is essential for your child to grow up understanding their roots and the story that brought him/ her into our lives. We promise to maintain a connection that suits your comfort level, whether through visits, phone calls, letters, or sharing photos. We are humbled by the strength and courage you display. Thank you for considering us as potential parents for your child.

Our Story

PREPPING DINNER TOGETHER

Our story began when we met while helping a mutual friend move. Little did we know that what started as a deep friendship would blossom into a profound love that continues to grow stronger every day. Our early days were filled with long walks, sharing dreams of the future, and conversations that sparked a love that has stood the test of time. Our bond solidified through the ups and downs of life. Family has always been the heart of who we are. Both of us were fortunate to be raised in stable and loving families, and that foundation has shaped the values we cherish today.

PETTING THE COWS AT OUR FRIEND'S FARM
SELFIE ON A TRIP TO BERLIN, GERMANY
BIKE RIDE AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

We share a love for physical activity, and you’ll often find us engaging in aerial circus at home or biking at the many scenic parks in our city. Our love for the outdoors extends to climbing mountains with Mike’s family in Colorado and spending blissful days on the ocean with Elise’s family in New England.

We love exploring new ideas and learning from one another. Creating an environment that fosters growth and understanding through conversation is a treasured part of our relationship. Now that we are in our early 30’s we are eager to share these joys with a child.

why Mike loves

ELISE

Elise’s heart overflows with empathy and loyalty. Her extraordinary care and dedication have left a deep imprint on our relationship and will undoubtedly shape her approach to parenting. I’ve witnessed her compassion firsthand. An example that stands out is Elise’s unique ability to connect with children who are slow to open up. She was able to engage her much younger adopted cousin in conversation when others struggled. Elise also has an adventurous spirit that fuels spontaneous trips and memorable experiences. She is committed to prioritizing school trips and extracurricular activities, which reflects her dedication to our child’s growth and exploration. I’m excited for Elise to infuse our child’s life with love, empathy, and joyful experiences, creating a safe haven for them to thrive.

ELISE GARDENING IN FRONT OF OUR HOUSE
A COZY AFTERNOON READING WITH OUR DOG

ELISE'S

CAREER

I oversee databases, servers, and technical troubleshooting at a family-owned steel company. My hybrid work arrangement affords flexibility and efficiency, allowing me to manage tasks on my own time. This work structure also grants me evenings to be social with friends. In the future, transitioning to parttime employment would deepen my presence with our children, aligning with my commitment to cherish every moment with them.

ELISE DANCING IN THE WATER ON A SUMMER BEACH DAY

why Elise loves

MIKE

Mike is a delightful balance of goofiness and unwavering dedication. Yet, beneath that cheerful exterior lies a rock-solid, self-driven individual whose commitment to what matters most is truly inspiring. I am awed by Mike’s undertaking to build a barn for our friend’s farm over the past three years. This two-story marvel stands as a testament to his perseverance and capability. His influence on the children in our circle is equally profound. Whenever a young mind shows curiosity, Mike’s eyes light up with excitement. He leaves an indelible mark on young minds and hearts when he teaches everything from fixing bikes to the intricacies of welding. He imparts real-life skills and fosters independence, in a safe environment, all while having fun. I can’t wait to see him share these qualities with our future child.

MIKE ON AERIAL SILKS IN OUR LIVING ROOM
MIKE FEEDING CLOVER THE COW AT OUR FRIEND'S FARM
MIKE FIXING ELISE'S BIKE IN THE GARAGE

MIKE'S

CAREER

I am a data scientist at a startup. Our mission is to ensure pipelines carrying oil, gas, and water are safe for people and the environment. My work is intellectually stimulating and affords me incredible flexibility. I work a hybrid schedule, so I am home 3-4 days a week. I take pride in organizing coworker events like our Easter party and confetti egg snowball fight.

Home

and

COMMUNITY

Nestled in Texas suburbs, we enjoy a warm climate and easy access to both rural farmlands and the city center. Our home features woodworking, craft, and aerial circus spaces, reflecting our shared passions. Weekends find us at our friends’ farm, the beach, or exploring the numerous public parks. Our community boasts top-tier schools, ranking in the top 5-10% of Texas public education. We’ve created a space where adventure and growth flourish, embracing every opportunity for family togetherness.

- MEET OUR DOG -

NUISANCE

NUISANCE HELPING MIKE IN THE WOODSHOP

Nuisance, our delightful lab mix, earned her quirky name when she temporarily turned glittery purple by jumping in front of a paint sprayer. As the guardian of our home, she radiates sweetness and loves playing with kids. A devoted snuggle bug, she thrives in our arms and adds joy to every moment.

- OUR PROMISES -

AS PARENTS

As parents, we are wholeheartedly dedicated to providing a nurturing and vibrant home for our child. We promise:

• A Home of Exploration: We offer a wonderful home that encourages exploration and discovery.

• Outdoor Adventures: Our expansive yard will be the backdrop for playful investigation and imagination.

• Encouraging Passions: If our child shows interest, we’ll explore safe avenues for them to delve into new activities.

• Financial Stability and Literacy: We are financially stable and will teach our child about money management.

• Broad Horizons: We’ll embark on vacation to explore the world and visit family.

• Empathy and Compassion: We’ll lead with compassion and teach our child to care for others.

• Positive Discipline: Discipline will be guided by non-violent methods, fostering growth and understanding.

• Heritage and Culture: We’ll educate our child about their heritage and culture, celebrating their uniqueness.

• Honoring Birth Family: We’ll always honor and respect you and recognize your importance in our family story.

• Community Support: Our adoption support group ensures our child will have a loving community to lean on.

- OUR -

HOBBIES

MAKING FURNITURE IN OUR WOOD SHOP

Aerial circus and rock climbing are not just hobbies, but threads that weave our lives with friends and family. The exhilaration of being airborne and the athletic demands invigorate us. Mike’s favorite, the straps, embodies his flair, while Elise shines on the lyra. Together, we relish duet work on aerial silks. We love to go to the climbing gym on weekends. Through rock climbing, our family and friends have solidified relationships through the trust climbing partners place in each other. In our free time, we revel in crafting and building, a means to infuse creativity into our surroundings. These hobbies enliven our days, shaping memories and deepening connections. We are so excited to teach our child the joys and values of these enriching pursuits.

DOING AERIAL SILKS TOGETHER
ROCK CLIMBING WITH MIKE'S FAMILY IN COLORADO
SAILING TOGETHER IN ELISE'S FAMILY'S BOAT

A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS

FAVORITE ANIMAL

ELISE Elephant
MIKE Marmot

FAVORITE HOLIDAY

ELISE Thanksgiving
MIKE Christmas

FAVORITE SEASON

BOTH Early Spring

FAVORITE DESSERT

ELISE Crème Brulée
MIKE Cheesecake

FAVORITE CHILDREN'S BOOK

ELISE Winnie the Pooh
MIKE Where the Wild Things Are

FAVORITE VACATION SPOT

ELISE New England
MIKE Colorado

FAVORITE TALENT

ELISE Sewing
MIKE Juggling

PLACE TO TAKE A CHILD

ELISE Schlitterbahn (water park)
MIKE Rock climbing gym

our

FAMILY

STARTING FAMILY BIKE RACE ON VACATION IN SPOKANE, WASHINGTON
ELISE WITH HER SISTER & COUSIN AT THE DOCK IN MASSACHUSETTS
MIKE'S FAMILY AT LUNCH ON THE LAKE IN COLORADO

Our families are a harmonious blend of similarities and unique qualities that come together beautifully. Our shared love for outdoorsy pursuits like rock climbing and sailing creates a natural bond, fostering communication and trust. We traditionally gather in New England for the Fourth of July and in Colorado for Thanksgiving. Gathering at our home will become our Christmas tradition.

Both families embody intelligence, passion, and stability, making them incredible role models. Elise’s parents, both professors, and Mike’s father, a computer scientist, infuse our lives with enriching knowledge. Mike’s mother adds to the tapestry of our family with her infectious sense of humor that keeps us all laughing and having fun. We each have a younger sister, and they are both thoughtful and adventurous.

Elise has an extensive extended family. She reconnected with her third cousin upon discovering their move to Galveston. We bonded with their adopted son, and they are all cherished members of our lives.

CHRISTMAS DINNER WITH ELISE'S FAMILY

The shared excitement of welcoming our future child is palpable within both families. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins eagerly anticipate meeting and embracing the first addition to the next generation. Our family’s warm embrace, love for adventure, and diverse experiences create an environment where a child can thrive and grow

ELISE'S WHOLE EXTENDED FAMILY

- OUR -

HEARTFELT

THANKS

We extend sincere gratitude for considering us to be a part of your journey. We’re here with open hearts, ready to provide your child a life filled with love, encouragement, and endless possibilities. We would love an open adoption but will honor your contact preferences, shaping a relationship that feels right for you. We’re eager to embrace parenthood, nurturing a family founded on compassion, warmth, and shared experiences. Our home is prepared to welcome a child with open arms and hearts, and we look forward to the remarkable journey ahead.

If you choose to walk this path with us, your child’s story, heritage, and connection to you will be cherished. We’ll hold your role in the highest esteem, forever grateful for the precious gift you’ve entrusted to us.

ELISE AND MIKE

WE WOULD LOVE TO

HEAR FROM YOU!

If you have additional questions for us or would like to speak to us, please contact The Adoption Alliance by calling 1-800-626-4324.