Derrick is the fifth of five children, raised in a small town north of Atlanta, Georgia. He has always been very close to his family, and his relationship with his family has taught him respect for these bonds. For that reason he feels that the bonds of a child and his or her birthmother are also very important. If you should choose to have your child become part of our family, he or she will respect his or her heritage and birthfamily, and will know the love of a caring adoptive family.

Like Derrick, Buzz is also from a very large family; he has seven older sisters. He is originally from a small Cajun town in Louisiana, but he has lived in a number of places around the country. Although he has often been far from his family, he has made it a point to remain close to them in his heart. His parents, sisters, and their families are all very excited about spoiling the 20th grandchild in the family.

When we first met neither of us had any intention of finding the person that we were supposed to be with for the rest of our lives. It's funny, though, how fate has a way of intervening when you least expect it. As we began to talk more we felt that we were drawn to each other because of our similarities, but even more because of our differences and the way that they complement each other. Derrick is practical, quiet, and reserved, while Buzz is often free-spirited and spontaneous, willing and ready to talk to anyone. But, as all of our friends know, there are times when we will surprise you and completely change roles. We like to think of ourselves as well balanced. We both take our work very seriously (Derrick is in management and Buzz is a psychologist), but we also believe that hard work should always be balanced by a healthy dose of fun. Since moving to New Hampshire, over 2 years ago, most of our fun has consisted of exploring and enjoying our surroundings, volunteering in the summer at a Family Camp for families affected by HIV, hiking in the White Mountains, collecting rocks along the coast, and visiting the exciting cities around us like Montreal, New York, and Boston. Of course we also like the comfort of being at home visiting with friends, listening to music (sometimes even singing and dancing with our cats, Gina and Sholey), gardening, and learning new crafts. We are very much looking forward to sharing these times with a son or daughter (we're sure the cats will give up their dance partners!).

We have thought quite a bit about what it would be like to add to our family through adoption. We know that we have a very happy life filled with love and support from family and friends. We can think of no greater joy than to share that love with a son or daughter. We know that this is a difficult time for you as you balance your own concerns, with your best wishes for your baby. Your decision to consider an adoption plan for your child is a courageous one and we would be honored to talk with you about your decision and to answer any questions that you have about us as potential parents or about open adoption. We know that this is a lot to consider all at once, and we thank you for taking the time to get to know us.

Thanks, Buzz and Derrick