Letters of Reference

Your letters of reference should be short and to the point. Basically, they should indicate how the person writing them knows you, for how long, that you are just short of sainthood, and would make extraordinary parents. If these are written properly, they are a great source of increased self esteem, as well as a great way to raise your spirits if you're having a bad day.

Any references to ax murders and the like should be meticulously avoided.

Below is a sample letter. Obviously, the body of the letter will have to be changed to reflect the relationship between the author and subject of the letter.

(date)

To whom it may concern:

(adoptive parent 1) is my older brother. In addition to being family, (adoptive parents) are my friends. I highly recommend them as adoptive parents. They are a wonderful couple who would be loving, kind, attentive parents.

(adoptive parent 1) is a gentle man, who is a supportive brother to me and uncle to my children. He was very close to my parents before their deaths.

(adoptive parent 2) is creative, organized and fun. My mother considered her one of her closest confidants. This closeness has passed to the next generation, as my daughter and son will think up almost any excuse to visit them.

Their home is a delight for the children. They have a beautiful yard, with plenty of room for kickball, baseball and volleyball. There’s a fantastic pool where the children swim. After the children are a little tuckered out from the outdoor activities, (adoptive parent 1) will usually take them inside to use the computer. (adoptive parent 2) makes really delicious food, and we “visit” by the pool.

As a couple, (adoptive parents) are great together. They love each other very much, and share that love with each of us, their family members.

Their house is truly a home, with soup cooking and music playing. A baby would be nurtured with all the love and guidance they have to give, and would be raised with great care. I have known them for many years, and they are truly as nice as they seem to be. My children cannot wait to meet their new cousin from China.

Sincerely,


(author)