Both of our families are thoroughly excited about the addition of a new child to the extended family… which already includes four blessings of the gift of adoption. Mark, in particular, deeply understands and appreciates the strength it takes to place your beloved child with a family…having been placed as an infant himself. We hope and pray that through this brief story, you will know that your child will enter a world and family of love, encouragement, laughter, fun, and support. It would also be our hope that you know we would be grateful and appreciative of your strength, courage, and bravery with whatever decision you make.

Mark Amy Job Description Physician - Internal Medicine Licensed Counselor, Ph.D. Student in Educational Psychology & Am Planning on Staying at Home for a Period of Time Education Bachelor of Arts - Biology & Doctor of Medicine Bachelor of Science - Psychology, Master of Science - Counseling & Student Personnel Administration & In Progress - Doctor of Philosophy - Educational Psychology Favorites Holiday Tradition Decorating the Christmas Tree Holiday Tradition Making Cookies Movie Star Wars (Collection) Movie Fame Sport to Play Racquetball Sport to Play Soccer/Skiing Type of Music Americana Type of Music Classic Rock Vacation Spot Big Bend National Park Vacation Spot Mountains Children None

As an adopted child himself, with two adopted siblings, Mark truly understands the special gift that adoption is. The three siblings would agree that many of their successes in life are directly attributable to being adopted by such loving parents, and we hope to share that same special love with an adopted child of our own. Growing up in a large extended family, there was never a feeling of 'being different,' and instead, they grew up in a seamless mix of cousins…some of whom are now grown, and have adopted children themselves. Mark's own personal experience has also given him a unique understanding of not just the love, but also the tough choices faced by birth mothers. In addition to the support and love of his adopted parents, he also credits the loving decision his own birth mother made, in providing him with the best possible life she saw fit. It is a gift he understands could never be repaid.

We share varied interests, including listening to music, watching movies, spending times with family and friends, as well as spending time outdoors. We are both athletic and love to run, go on walks, work out and snow ski. Both of us love to read and learn about new things, as well as attending plays, musicals and going to art exhibits, museums and festivals in the area. Participating in the culture and events in our city is very important to us.

Amy is a college football and basketball fan, and she grew up watching and going to games, from the time she was a small child. She also grew up playing soccer and still enjoys playing. Mark enjoys camping, hiking, running, museums, and reading books. Most recently, we have been training to run a half marathon together.

Mark's parents have a lake house, only several hours away. We enjoy going there for family gatherings, with a lot of talking, laughing and food. Mark's parents love to cook and whenever we get together, there is never a shortage of great food, laughter and love.

Another very important part of our lives, are friends…which are not only concentrated in our hometown, but also across the nation. Many of our friends have young children, and several have also been blessed by the gift of adoption. Our friend's children will be thrilled to have a new playmate.

Sully Hanging Out at Home

Sully is our four year-old miniature Dachshund. He came home to live with us at about six months of age, from Amy's sister Laurie's house. He quickly became a part of the family and loves to snuggle, play and chase squirrels. Sully has a lot of fun with his "people cousins" and especially likes to give lots of kisses and love. He really enjoys playing with his cousin Remi. He is an important, and loved part of our family. Sully is excited about an upcoming addition to the family, and has been very good around infants and small children.