And that is 22 pounds of darling cute boy too..
Merry Christmas!!!
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Merry Christmas!
We have been really busy with the holidays and a bunch of specialist appointments and tests. He's had an MRI now, two EEGs, met the movement specialist, had a few more shots and another check up, met with the neurologist a few times, and had an ECHO done of his heart. We still have a few more tests to go but he's doing well. He gained 2 pounds this month and is up to just about 22lbs now!
And that is 22 pounds of darling cute boy too..
Merry Christmas!!!
And that is 22 pounds of darling cute boy too..
Merry Christmas!!!
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Someone's child...
A little over a year ago I wrote a post about a boy whose picture was on my phone. This is part of that post:
"I keep a picture of one of the Reece's Rainbow kids on my phone as the wallpaper, and pray for him throughout the day. Yesterday someone saw his picture and asked who's child he was. I replied that he was no one's, and a quizzical look came over their face. They asked again, explaining that it had to be someone's child. Again, I said it really was no one's child, and my heart broke. He is God's child, but he has no earthly family to love him. No one to tuck him in at night or sing silly songs to him. No one to explore the great outdoors with, or buy him the goofiest Halloween costume possible. No one to show him the love of the Creator. Oh how my heart aches for him. I wish we could be those someones."
That picture was "Jacob" and that person was my husband. Here we are a year later and he is most definitely someone's child now! He is so loved and cherished. We get the priveledge of tucking this sweet child of God in at night. Kissing his cheeks and forehead, singing him silly songs, and taking him outdoors to explore the world. He didn't wear a super goofy costume this year but he did wear a cute hoodie with ears. ;) He has bonded so well to us, especially me, just as he should. He's gaining weight, learning skills, and oh is he a happy little guy. I cannot fully grasp the way God carried us through the last year. We have so much to be thankful for. God is so good.
There are so many other children that need families to step out in faith for them. Will you be one of them? Or maybe someone you know? Share, Donate, Pray.
http://static.reecesrainbow.org/angeltree2013/
"I keep a picture of one of the Reece's Rainbow kids on my phone as the wallpaper, and pray for him throughout the day. Yesterday someone saw his picture and asked who's child he was. I replied that he was no one's, and a quizzical look came over their face. They asked again, explaining that it had to be someone's child. Again, I said it really was no one's child, and my heart broke. He is God's child, but he has no earthly family to love him. No one to tuck him in at night or sing silly songs to him. No one to explore the great outdoors with, or buy him the goofiest Halloween costume possible. No one to show him the love of the Creator. Oh how my heart aches for him. I wish we could be those someones."
That picture was "Jacob" and that person was my husband. Here we are a year later and he is most definitely someone's child now! He is so loved and cherished. We get the priveledge of tucking this sweet child of God in at night. Kissing his cheeks and forehead, singing him silly songs, and taking him outdoors to explore the world. He didn't wear a super goofy costume this year but he did wear a cute hoodie with ears. ;) He has bonded so well to us, especially me, just as he should. He's gaining weight, learning skills, and oh is he a happy little guy. I cannot fully grasp the way God carried us through the last year. We have so much to be thankful for. God is so good.
There are so many other children that need families to step out in faith for them. Will you be one of them? Or maybe someone you know? Share, Donate, Pray.
http://static.reecesrainbow.org/angeltree2013/
Friday, November 1, 2013
I'm an Angel Tree Warrior!!
I tried signing up on and off for the last couple weeks but every time I did, the kids I chose were already taken. Today I checked to see who needed an AT Warrior and sweet sweet Samuel still did, and now I am that warrior! I am so excited!! The goal is to raise at least $1000 for his grant and/or find him a family. I have a few ideas on raising funds for him, and I can't wait to get started!
Check out the Angel Tree program if you want to see all of the kids or find out more about the program! There are still a few kids that need warriors!
http://static.reecesrainbow.org/angeltree2013/
Our Angel Tree child is Samuel!!
http://a-sparrows-nest.blogspot.com/
Check out the Angel Tree program if you want to see all of the kids or find out more about the program! There are still a few kids that need warriors!
http://static.reecesrainbow.org/angeltree2013/
Our Angel Tree child is Samuel!!
http://a-sparrows-nest.blogspot.com/
Thursday, October 24, 2013
One month home and doing awesome!
Praise God, he has done such an amazing thing by adding our lil guy to our family. He is a perfect fit for us, and we for him. He has gained over 3lbs since we have been home and is much more active and talkative. Bonding is going terrific, lots of eye contact, people preference (mom & dad, then siblings), and he is exploring toys. His teeth have come in a bunch with the added nutrition and you can tell very clearly the line of decay from not having them cared for before we got him. The tops of his teeth where they were through the gum line are decayed to tiny sharp nubs. He's eating like a champ and is taking things by spoon once in a while. We just love him to bits. My only regret from the whole thing is that we did not bring two children home. But God has a plan and I am quite sure our family is not finished expanding.
Here are a few random photos, though none are terrific since my good camera stopped working just after we got home.
He has gained a lot of muscle control so far. He scoots around on his blanket on the floor, tries to roll over, and holds his head up side to side (front to back is harder). He loves being tickled and flipped upside down like any 2 yr old boy. He's started to do things he thinks are funny, like scooting across the floor the second I get his diaper off for a changing, or tossing his head to one side when he's sitting on me and I move it to the other side. He gets a smile on his face when he does it. He's a goofball and it's fun to watch him grow and show his personality. He's very sensitive as well and if he's not happy, he will let you know. When we got home he pulled a killer pouty lip face quite often. Now he does not do it as much, and he's gotten better at vocalizing. He's not speaking words yet but does make a wide variety of sounds so I am sure we will get there eventually. His hair has grown a ton since we got home as well. It sticks up in the cutest whirl at the front on one side. I'm not sure if we will just let it grow out a bit or if we will trim it to some sort of faux-hawk.
Well back to 'work' now for me. Writing blog posts does not help the housework or art get done!
OH and since we are done funding adoption stuff for the time being, I want to give you some options for my friends to help with their funding!!!
I LOVE this family!! Their kiddos are just home a year and they are going back. Please support them! They ROCK! The fudge is amazing and I now have a super cute "Feather Man" in my art studio as an inspiration. http://butbygraceitcouldbeme.blogspot.com/
Here are a few random photos, though none are terrific since my good camera stopped working just after we got home.
(Snoozing in his swing after playing for a bit. 1 week home)
(2 weeks home. Playing on his playmat. video capture)
(Meeting one of the ponies with a few of his sisters. 3 weeks home)
(Playing is hard work! 4 weeks home)
He has gained a lot of muscle control so far. He scoots around on his blanket on the floor, tries to roll over, and holds his head up side to side (front to back is harder). He loves being tickled and flipped upside down like any 2 yr old boy. He's started to do things he thinks are funny, like scooting across the floor the second I get his diaper off for a changing, or tossing his head to one side when he's sitting on me and I move it to the other side. He gets a smile on his face when he does it. He's a goofball and it's fun to watch him grow and show his personality. He's very sensitive as well and if he's not happy, he will let you know. When we got home he pulled a killer pouty lip face quite often. Now he does not do it as much, and he's gotten better at vocalizing. He's not speaking words yet but does make a wide variety of sounds so I am sure we will get there eventually. His hair has grown a ton since we got home as well. It sticks up in the cutest whirl at the front on one side. I'm not sure if we will just let it grow out a bit or if we will trim it to some sort of faux-hawk.
Well back to 'work' now for me. Writing blog posts does not help the housework or art get done!
OH and since we are done funding adoption stuff for the time being, I want to give you some options for my friends to help with their funding!!!
I LOVE this family!! Their kiddos are just home a year and they are going back. Please support them! They ROCK! The fudge is amazing and I now have a super cute "Feather Man" in my art studio as an inspiration. http://butbygraceitcouldbeme.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Home at last!!
We are home!! It was a grueling 29+ hour journey but we made it. We got home at midnight on the 12th and are still catching up on sleep and adjusting but things are going well.
He had his 'just home' doctors appointment and weighs 17lbs 7.5 oz and is 31.75" long. Our doctor loves him and is as excited to see him grow and progress as we are.
He had his 'just home' doctors appointment and weighs 17lbs 7.5 oz and is 31.75" long. Our doctor loves him and is as excited to see him grow and progress as we are.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
He's ours!!
We had court on August 20th, and the paperwork became official on August 31st! On September 6th we had Gotcha Day!!
"Jacob" is an orphan no more!!
Gotcha!!!!
Thank you to everyone that helped make this possible!
"Jacob" is an orphan no more!!
Gotcha!!!!
Thank you to everyone that helped make this possible!
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Monday, July 8, 2013
We have a date!!!
It's coming up on us quickly and in the next few weeks we will finally be meeting our new son. AHHHH So exciting! So much to do before we leave! I was TOTALLY calm before that call. Now we are all crazy. HA
Please pray that we can get what we need to get done actually finished or taken care of. Lots of accommodations for critters and such.
It's bizarre how real everything becomes even when you thought it was 'real' before.
If you see me running in circles, just let me burn off the energy. lol
Please pray that we can get what we need to get done actually finished or taken care of. Lots of accommodations for critters and such.
It's bizarre how real everything becomes even when you thought it was 'real' before.
If you see me running in circles, just let me burn off the energy. lol
Monday, June 17, 2013
Fully Funded!!!
It is with great excitement and happy tear filled eyes that we announce that we are FULLY FUNDED! This experience has been so humbling. You can make all the plans you want about how you think things will unfold, and where the money will come from, but in the end only God knows. He provides, and rarely in the ways you expect. We had donations of items to sell, cans to return, anonymous donations to our RR grant, people gave above what they need to at our sales and bought things for far more than they were probably worth. We received the gift of a working vehicle from some friends, so that we could continue to use our funds for getting our boy home, instead of trying to resurrect our dead car or buying something else. This last bump to meet our goal came from some very WONDERFUL young ladies that asked for donations for us on their Birthday invitations and raised $400! This gets us to our goal for bringing home Jacob. At this time we believe that we will be bringing home just him. We do plan to donate diapers (which we will purchase while in country) to the orphanage. Any funds raised beyond our fully funded number will go towards that or helping other families in their journeys to bring home their kids. Thank you all SO much for all of your support!! Please continue to pray for our little guy and for us. We should be travelling in August.
PS I still plan to try to sell more of the stuff from the garage sale this week to raise money for the orphanage. The rest of what is left after this weekend will be donated to the local homeless shelter/rehab center for their thrift store.
PS I still plan to try to sell more of the stuff from the garage sale this week to raise money for the orphanage. The rest of what is left after this weekend will be donated to the local homeless shelter/rehab center for their thrift store.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
We have been submitted!!!!!
OK so for those that don't know what that means, it means that our dossier (packet of priceless paperwork) has been submitted to the government of Jacob's country. Now we wait while they process it and get our appointment date! Travel has slowed down a bit this Spring though so we are anticipating August now instead of July like we had hoped. All in God's timing though. I am sure it will all work out fine but it does make the start of the kids' school year a bit more tricky. School supply shopping is such a chore, and I hate to leave that up to whoever is watching them, so we will need to get started on that soon.
That's all the news for now I guess. We do still have several fundraisers going to help us get finished up on our funding. Puzzle Pieces ($5 sponsorship per piece, donate to Reece's Rainbow through our link), Owl prints through my Etsy shop, Equine sculptures (also in my Etsy shop), and I plan to open the garage sale one last time as soon as the weather cooperates.
Thx a bunch!!!
That's all the news for now I guess. We do still have several fundraisers going to help us get finished up on our funding. Puzzle Pieces ($5 sponsorship per piece, donate to Reece's Rainbow through our link), Owl prints through my Etsy shop, Equine sculptures (also in my Etsy shop), and I plan to open the garage sale one last time as soon as the weather cooperates.
Thx a bunch!!!
Monday, May 20, 2013
Fundraising updates
It has been so busy here lately. We will have the last piece of our dossier in country this week, and should be submitted next week. The travel wait after that has been running approx 10 weeks. So we could be travelling in 11 weeks (probably the 3rd-4th week of July)!! I meet this thought with a mix of "AHHHHHHHHHH!" excitement and nerves. It's getting more and more real. We have some packing to do, things to buy for the trip, we still have not painted his room, and we need to figure out our travel timeline a little bit, along with care for the kids and critters at home. It also means I/we be most likely missing the first days of the kids being back at school, so that will need to be worked out as well.
I also realized this morning that we will be real close to the end of our trip at our 16th Anniversary and my 35th birthday. This could be interesting to see how it plays out. I hope they have cherry pie, otherwise my birthday celebration might have to wait till we get home!
We still have about $1000 to raise. It's hard to put a hard dollar amount since things are always changing, but that should be pretty close. There are around 170 puzzle pieces still to get names on, plus we have the gorgeous Compelled Designs jewelry available for purchase as well. And since we still have a bunch of stuff left from the garage sale, we will be reopening it Friday/Sat this weekend as long as the weather holds.
I also realized this morning that we will be real close to the end of our trip at our 16th Anniversary and my 35th birthday. This could be interesting to see how it plays out. I hope they have cherry pie, otherwise my birthday celebration might have to wait till we get home!
We still have about $1000 to raise. It's hard to put a hard dollar amount since things are always changing, but that should be pretty close. There are around 170 puzzle pieces still to get names on, plus we have the gorgeous Compelled Designs jewelry available for purchase as well. And since we still have a bunch of stuff left from the garage sale, we will be reopening it Friday/Sat this weekend as long as the weather holds.
Monday, May 6, 2013
Almost hitting our goal!
You may have noticed that our goal has suddenly shrunk quite a bit. Since we are not sure if we will be going for two kiddos or not, we will be fundraising for just one. Any extra funds will come from my business. It's a hard decision to make and things may change when we get there. I am trying to just go with the flow.
So! This means that we are SUPER close to being fully funded to bring home Jacob! How exciting is that!? I think we should be able to knock out the rest with the garage sale in a week and a half. The garage sale on Saturday brought in about $600, which is just awesome.
WOOHOO!
So! This means that we are SUPER close to being fully funded to bring home Jacob! How exciting is that!? I think we should be able to knock out the rest with the garage sale in a week and a half. The garage sale on Saturday brought in about $600, which is just awesome.
WOOHOO!
Friday, May 3, 2013
Still kickin! Give-away winners and lots of fundraisers!
I am exhausted!! And for more than one reason apparently. I thought I was just getting worn out from all of the work, but it turns out my choice to 'eat healthier' wasn't so healthy and my iron was is pretty low. Whoops. Guess I will stop denying myself those cheese burgers and steaks afterall! Anyway, we are still pushing through on fundraising! Lots of stuff going on right now. Here is a recap.
Blog Give-Away - We finally hit $600 in our Reece's Rainbow Grant and I decided that we will end the give-away now and draw for all of the remaining prizes. Each winner will get their choice. I will start drawing those next week unless I get a chance before that. Keep an eye on the blog's original give-away post for the announcements!
Puzzle Pieces - we still have 196 puzzle pieces to get names on! With just a little over 2 months to go till we are likely to travel, we have a LOT to do!
We also have a Jamberry fundraiser party going on right now. The rep is donating all of her commission from sales to us! That is 30%. Check it out - https://www.facebook.com/events/198433816946974/?fref=ts
Garage Sales - I have our HUGE sale scheduled for May 16-18th, but since this weekend is the Rural Parkway M-15 sale, I thought I would open up the porch for that. Well it kept growing and now we have SO MUCH STUFF! WOO! Well that's great but I am beat from setting things up and I still have MORE stuff in the garage that we have not sorted. Please pray this stuff sells well for us as we still need a significant chunk if we are going to get 2 children. If you are local, please stop by! I also printed up 100 flyers to hand out for the big sale as well. I will try to get a picture of some of the madness tomorrow.
Ok now I am going to go bed so I can get up in the morning early enough to get a bunch more stuff priced. HUGE thanks to my mom for coming out to help price things and to her and everyone else that has donated stuff for us to sell. We really appreciate it!!
Blog Give-Away - We finally hit $600 in our Reece's Rainbow Grant and I decided that we will end the give-away now and draw for all of the remaining prizes. Each winner will get their choice. I will start drawing those next week unless I get a chance before that. Keep an eye on the blog's original give-away post for the announcements!
Puzzle Pieces - we still have 196 puzzle pieces to get names on! With just a little over 2 months to go till we are likely to travel, we have a LOT to do!
We also have a Jamberry fundraiser party going on right now. The rep is donating all of her commission from sales to us! That is 30%. Check it out - https://www.facebook.com/events/198433816946974/?fref=ts
Garage Sales - I have our HUGE sale scheduled for May 16-18th, but since this weekend is the Rural Parkway M-15 sale, I thought I would open up the porch for that. Well it kept growing and now we have SO MUCH STUFF! WOO! Well that's great but I am beat from setting things up and I still have MORE stuff in the garage that we have not sorted. Please pray this stuff sells well for us as we still need a significant chunk if we are going to get 2 children. If you are local, please stop by! I also printed up 100 flyers to hand out for the big sale as well. I will try to get a picture of some of the madness tomorrow.
Ok now I am going to go bed so I can get up in the morning early enough to get a bunch more stuff priced. HUGE thanks to my mom for coming out to help price things and to her and everyone else that has donated stuff for us to sell. We really appreciate it!!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Down to four digits!!!
Our big sale is scheduled for May 16-18th so if you are nearby please plan to come by! Tell your friends and family too!! I will be printing flyers to post and hand out pretty soon. This will be our big push to get the last of the funds raised. We are only needing about $1900 still before we are FULLY FUNDED for just getting Jacob. To add the second child we will need another $7000, so we are trying to raise about $9,000 before July! Every bit helps too. No gift is too small. My kids find pennies and quarters in the couch and they all go in the donation jar! It adds up! It feels so good to finally get out of the five digit numbers!!
My youngest girls are so excited that they ask (every day) to see pictures and if I can print more out so they can take them to school and tell their teachers about them. What a precious thing. They are spreading the word about these kids and they don't even know it. Maybe someday those seeds will grow and more children will find their families because of it!
On the paperwork front, the last of our dossier will be in country this weekend! How exciting. We are still waiting on USCIS, but that will be a little while yet. We should get invitations to be fingerprinted (again) in about 2 weeks.
And about this nesting thing... I still want to paint the bedrooms upstairs but have not decided how I want it yet. Something fun and toddler-ish, but not overwhelming. I have the paint, I just need to decide where it's going (besides on the walls...). Anyone love to paint and want to come help me tackle that?? I like to paint paintings, but rooms are not my favorite. I also still deen to sit and SEW a bunch of blankets and things. I still have all of those yards of fabric to use up. Maybe I will get a chance before the big sale so I can sell them there after I decide which two I want to keep. I keep changing my mind on which fabric I like best. I know it won't really matter though, just one of those nesting things. Trying to make everything perfect. We have enough clothing for 2 children anywhere from 12 mos to 3t. The first car seat is being picked up tomorrow. I want to see how it fits in our vehicle before getting another. I still need to pick up the pack n play from my mom. There are a few things on our baby registry that we still need and a few more that are just wants.
We have heard some news about the little one we are hoping to adopt and he really needs to get home as soon as possible. Someone travelling recently saw him and he is only the size of an 18 month old for length (at 26 mos) and very thin. This breaks my heart into pieces. Poor sweet boy. Please pray that he would be watched over by angels until we can get there. We may likely end up at the hospital when we get home so that he can be stabilized and checked out. Even being at a better orphanage in his home country is not anywhere near being in a family. They just do not have the resources. Diapers get reused (yes disposable ones), they eat a brothy mixture instead of formula (and only 2-3 times per day), and then even though they are out of a bed and put in a bouncer or swing, it is not the same as being held and allowed to develop like a child in a family could. We are thankful for the care he does get, as many are not even this privileged.
July cannot come soon enough!
My youngest girls are so excited that they ask (every day) to see pictures and if I can print more out so they can take them to school and tell their teachers about them. What a precious thing. They are spreading the word about these kids and they don't even know it. Maybe someday those seeds will grow and more children will find their families because of it!
On the paperwork front, the last of our dossier will be in country this weekend! How exciting. We are still waiting on USCIS, but that will be a little while yet. We should get invitations to be fingerprinted (again) in about 2 weeks.
And about this nesting thing... I still want to paint the bedrooms upstairs but have not decided how I want it yet. Something fun and toddler-ish, but not overwhelming. I have the paint, I just need to decide where it's going (besides on the walls...). Anyone love to paint and want to come help me tackle that?? I like to paint paintings, but rooms are not my favorite. I also still deen to sit and SEW a bunch of blankets and things. I still have all of those yards of fabric to use up. Maybe I will get a chance before the big sale so I can sell them there after I decide which two I want to keep. I keep changing my mind on which fabric I like best. I know it won't really matter though, just one of those nesting things. Trying to make everything perfect. We have enough clothing for 2 children anywhere from 12 mos to 3t. The first car seat is being picked up tomorrow. I want to see how it fits in our vehicle before getting another. I still need to pick up the pack n play from my mom. There are a few things on our baby registry that we still need and a few more that are just wants.
We have heard some news about the little one we are hoping to adopt and he really needs to get home as soon as possible. Someone travelling recently saw him and he is only the size of an 18 month old for length (at 26 mos) and very thin. This breaks my heart into pieces. Poor sweet boy. Please pray that he would be watched over by angels until we can get there. We may likely end up at the hospital when we get home so that he can be stabilized and checked out. Even being at a better orphanage in his home country is not anywhere near being in a family. They just do not have the resources. Diapers get reused (yes disposable ones), they eat a brothy mixture instead of formula (and only 2-3 times per day), and then even though they are out of a bed and put in a bouncer or swing, it is not the same as being held and allowed to develop like a child in a family could. We are thankful for the care he does get, as many are not even this privileged.
July cannot come soon enough!
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Almost there!!!
Our background checks came in the mail today and our finalized Homestudy copies came yesterday! USCIS immigration application is in the mail now. We are almost done with the paperchase!!! AHHHH! So excited. Now I pray everything we have done so far is good and does not need redone. Most of our dossier is in country already just waiting on these last pieces! We will mail all but the USCIS this week!
WE ARE ALMOST THERE!
Can we get a little love in our grant in celebration??
http://reecesrainbow.org/52513/sponsorkroll
Now, for the most part, I can focus on the funding and getting the bedroom finished. We have a pretty good stash of clothes and toys. We have a portable highchair, and my mom has a full sized highchair and pack n play for us. She also procured a ton of Little Tykes outdoor stuff for us. A playhouse, a slide, a wagon, and a ride in car. We still need to get an umbrella stroller, car seats, disposable diapers (for when we get home and things are crazy), and a few more feeding supplies. I have the paint for the bedroom but have to figure out how I am going to paint it yet. It's a pretty unique lay out. I'd like to be creative and play off of that, but we will see.
I need to get sewing and make all of those quilts too, and bedding for the boy(s). Not enough hours in the day for the amount of nesting going on here. <grin>
WE ARE ALMOST THERE!
Can we get a little love in our grant in celebration??
http://reecesrainbow.org/52513/sponsorkroll
Now, for the most part, I can focus on the funding and getting the bedroom finished. We have a pretty good stash of clothes and toys. We have a portable highchair, and my mom has a full sized highchair and pack n play for us. She also procured a ton of Little Tykes outdoor stuff for us. A playhouse, a slide, a wagon, and a ride in car. We still need to get an umbrella stroller, car seats, disposable diapers (for when we get home and things are crazy), and a few more feeding supplies. I have the paint for the bedroom but have to figure out how I am going to paint it yet. It's a pretty unique lay out. I'd like to be creative and play off of that, but we will see.
I need to get sewing and make all of those quilts too, and bedding for the boy(s). Not enough hours in the day for the amount of nesting going on here. <grin>
Monday, April 8, 2013
Happy Birthday Kanani! Where is your family?
I have written about this girl before. Still no one has stepped up for her. She has already been transferred to a mental institution (where she does NOT belong). Her chances of survival there are not good. My friend is on a mission to find her a family and is writing lots of posts about her. She met her! Please share this info with others so she can get into a family where she belongs!
http://askingwithfaith.blogspot.ca/p/about-kanani.html
Girl, born April 2008 
Anophthalmos of the left eye, optic atrophy of the right eye, spastic tetraparesis
http://askingwithfaith.blogspot.ca/p/about-kanani.html
"Kanani"
Girl, born April 2008 Anophthalmos of the left eye, optic atrophy of the right eye, spastic tetraparesis
Kanani has been transferred!
Lovely Kanani needs a family to help her reach her full potential.
From a family who met her in May 2012:
Kanani is very sweet girl. She is well cared for in a good orphanage by caring nannies. She gets lots of outside time when it’s warm out but this time is spent lying down in the stroller as she can’t sit on her own. She can hold on to your fingers and seems to just love to have attention although with her eye troubles it is difficult for her to respond. She likes to have her cheek stroked and her hand held. She is quite stiff and in need of physiotherapy and most of all love and attention. We were told that she will be transferred to an institution very soon unless a family is found as children at this orphanage are typically transferred at age 4.
Large families welcome; travel required.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Woooohoo here we go!
Things are going to really get rockin now. All of the paperwork we have done is apostilled and has been overnighted to a family that is traveling this weekend and will get it in to the country next week! WOO.. The home study has been given the OK to be finalized so we are waiting to get that in the mail so it can be sent with our USCIS application for immigration approval. When that gets back and we get our background check and USCIS fingerprinting done we are SET! Then we send the last bit over and wait to be submitted and get travel dates! Now that said it will still be a few months for all of that to happen, but being nearly done with the paper chase is incredibly exciting!
Now I can turn my attention to the funding. The weekend we have scheduled the big yard sale is the same weekend as a local charity run for group that helps people with developmental disabilities. The run is taking place just a mile away from our house so I hope to be able to send plenty of traffic up this way! We are just starting to get some donations and helpers lined up for the big sale. If you have anything you want to help with, let us know! Also if anyone is interested in running/walking and taking pledges to help raise money for us, we would be really thrilled!
Where the money still needs to go:
USCIS application is $890 (we should be paying this in the next week or so)
In country we need to have about $18,000 ($26,000 for two kids) This includes food, housing, travel, paperwork, and facilitation fees.
We have an estimate of about $4000 for our flights both ways.
Hubby is taking unpaid leave, so we will need money to cover the bills at home while we are gone. (Around $2000-3000)
This leaves us still needing I think around $10,000 by the end of June. It's big, but God is bigger!
Now I can turn my attention to the funding. The weekend we have scheduled the big yard sale is the same weekend as a local charity run for group that helps people with developmental disabilities. The run is taking place just a mile away from our house so I hope to be able to send plenty of traffic up this way! We are just starting to get some donations and helpers lined up for the big sale. If you have anything you want to help with, let us know! Also if anyone is interested in running/walking and taking pledges to help raise money for us, we would be really thrilled!
Where the money still needs to go:
USCIS application is $890 (we should be paying this in the next week or so)
In country we need to have about $18,000 ($26,000 for two kids) This includes food, housing, travel, paperwork, and facilitation fees.
We have an estimate of about $4000 for our flights both ways.
Hubby is taking unpaid leave, so we will need money to cover the bills at home while we are gone. (Around $2000-3000)
This leaves us still needing I think around $10,000 by the end of June. It's big, but God is bigger!
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Puzzle progress
To purchase a piece make your donation to our Reece's Rainbow grant (tax deductible!) or PayPal (not tax-deductible).
Since the weather is warming we will be reopening our Porch Store! If you have anything you would like to donate to it, just let us know. Our big sale will be the 3rd weekend in May! We are also starting a can/bottle drive. There will be a large drop off container in front of the house. Just stop by and drop them in!
Ok now for a financial update. We still need a significant amount before we can go. Hubby has sold stock, gotten a bonus, and we have some funds from our tax refund (though some has to go to some fencing and such for the horses). This still leaves us about $3-4k short to just get Jacob home (including our plane tickets). If we add a second child we will still need another $4-8k on top of that. That is a lot of money obviously. I know God is bigger than that though and we can chip it away little by little!
**update 4/6/13 - We have 211 left!
**update 4/30/13 - We have 206 left
**update 5/2/13 - 196 left to get sponsored!!
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
The First Give-Away Winner is...
(drum roll please)
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Melissa Hart!! Congrats! You get your choice of prizes - Here
The next winner will be drawn when our Reece's Rainbow Grant reaches $600!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Melissa Hart!! Congrats! You get your choice of prizes - Here
The next winner will be drawn when our Reece's Rainbow Grant reaches $600!
Adoption Process update
Life right now sort of reminds me of a roller coaster. The part we are doing right now is the slow 'click click click' as you get pulled up the hill. Sometimes it doesn't feel like we are getting anywhere, even though I know we are. The time is going so fast and so slow at the same time. It feels like yesterday that we sent the commitment papers in to Reece's Rainbow, but also feels like that was forever ago. In three short/long months we should be traveling to meet our little one(s)! We still have a lot to accomplish in that time and I know it will go fast.
We have our Homestudy draft almost ready to finalize. Ben & I went and got our fingerprints done for our second background check yesterday. Those will be mailed in today and take 3-5 weeks to get back. If I had realized that we needed this I would have done it earlier. The Homestudy only required us to go to the local county building and have a quick search done. Oh well. It will all work out in God's perfect timing. We just ray that they will take the shorter time to get back. We should be filing out USCIS paperwork very soon for our immigration approval. The health forms have been an absolute PAIN.. I am so thankful that the ladies up at our doctor's office have been so good about it all. They are all very excited about Jacob. The receptionist said she thinks he looks like me. Funny how that works out. We certainly did not plan that out at all.
Yesterday I ordered two photo books online from shutterfly. These are filled with pictures of our family, home, and town, to show the people who work in the country where Jacob will live, and the kinds of things we like to do. We ordered two so that one could be left with an older child (if we add a second), and we would still have one to show judges, workers, nannies, etc. Then when we come to visit them in the orphanages we can show them pictures, and maybe some of the faces and places will be a little more familiar.
Coming home will be a shock no matter what we do though. Most of these kids have not been outside the orphanage walls since going in. In the not so great places they may have not ever left their crib. No amount of photos is going to prepare them for riding in a car, on a train, in a plane for hours and hours, etc. This is why it is so important to avoid the huge welcoming parties at the airport when new kids come home. It is exhausting and overwhelming. We plan to lock ourselves away in our home with just our family for a bit while we recover and start to adjust to the new normal. Since we should be home in August, I hope we can do some smaller meet and greet get together type things in September or October after we have bonded as a family. And for my church friends, don't expect to see us at church for a couple weeks. It will all just depend on how we are doing.
How you can pray for me today: That I would stay focused and press on with everything that needs to be done. It gets tiring to do the same paperwork over so many times!! I also need to get the house ready for our family Easter gathering this Sunday and work on art stuff. Also, please pray for clear guidance for us, and for Jacob to get the attention and love he deserves while we wait to go get him. Thx!
 |
| (Jacob at 16 mos) |
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Homestudy Draft is here!
We are currently working on getting the completed Home Study tweaked and ready to finalize! This is sort of a summary of our lives, family, and home. It gives the government a picture of us and that we have been found suitable to adopt. Having this portion nearly done is exciting! The next hurdle will be USCIS immigration approval. When we have the finalized Home Study we send that along with *more paperwork* to USCIS and some money (a good chunk actually), and then wait for our approval. Most of our dossier paperwork is ready and waiting to be reviewed prior to being appostilled (certified) by the state. So the big job that is taking center stage again is funding.
We have not mentioned it publicly but we are seriously considering bring two children home. It will cost additional funds if we do this ($5-12k) but not as much as if we did two fully separate adoptions ($25k each). We would not consider this if we had not felt like we were being prayerfully led this way. In the beginning I had absolutely NO intention of trying for 2. But God does big things in hearts and lives and we are trusting him for his clear guidance and provision.
So with this, I am working on planning our big fundraisers for spring. I am hoping we can get some church support to help us with it as fundraising events are a LOT of work. We have some sweet gentle attention loving critters here that would love being part of a petting zoo, so perhaps that will be something we will do.
Who wouldn't want to pet these sweet creatures?
We have not mentioned it publicly but we are seriously considering bring two children home. It will cost additional funds if we do this ($5-12k) but not as much as if we did two fully separate adoptions ($25k each). We would not consider this if we had not felt like we were being prayerfully led this way. In the beginning I had absolutely NO intention of trying for 2. But God does big things in hearts and lives and we are trusting him for his clear guidance and provision.
So with this, I am working on planning our big fundraisers for spring. I am hoping we can get some church support to help us with it as fundraising events are a LOT of work. We have some sweet gentle attention loving critters here that would love being part of a petting zoo, so perhaps that will be something we will do.
Who wouldn't want to pet these sweet creatures?
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Paperwork, paperwork, paperwork!
We have printed, scanned, copied, signed, and notarized enough paper in the last two weeks that I think we may have used up a few trees all on our own! Things are still moving through though, slowly. We got our passports last week. Hubby's pic looks ok, mine looks like I am a transparent redhead. Alright close enough to reality I suppose. :P
I have been working on a lot of artwork stuff with the studio lately, so that is why things have been quiet. That plus all of the doctors visits we have done to try to get all of our paperwork there done. I need to go back one more time to get the doctor to sign some things and get them notarized. The social worker has all of our documentation now so we should be getting the home study draft very soon. When that is done we just have to get fingerprints done, immigration approval, all of the forms need certified by the state, then it all goes over to Jacob's country for them to approve and send us our invitation to travel. We are still likely traveling in July.
We have sold 14 of the 252 puzzle pieces, so still LOTS more to go! If I can get 11 more sold I will post a picture of the puzzle so far. <grin>
There has been a change with the Reece's Rainbow donation button though. Reece's Rainbow is no longer able to cover the 3% PayPal fees. You can write a check or send a money order and we will get all of that but in order for us to get the full donation you intend us to, you would have to add some to cover the fees.
We are still planning to have a large garage sale next month (probably towards the end of April) so if you are local and have anything you want to get rid of, feel free to bring it by.
OK I have to go get moving for the day. A few of us Michigan RR gals are getting together for lunch today and I have not even showered. Ha.
I have been working on a lot of artwork stuff with the studio lately, so that is why things have been quiet. That plus all of the doctors visits we have done to try to get all of our paperwork there done. I need to go back one more time to get the doctor to sign some things and get them notarized. The social worker has all of our documentation now so we should be getting the home study draft very soon. When that is done we just have to get fingerprints done, immigration approval, all of the forms need certified by the state, then it all goes over to Jacob's country for them to approve and send us our invitation to travel. We are still likely traveling in July.
We have sold 14 of the 252 puzzle pieces, so still LOTS more to go! If I can get 11 more sold I will post a picture of the puzzle so far. <grin>
There has been a change with the Reece's Rainbow donation button though. Reece's Rainbow is no longer able to cover the 3% PayPal fees. You can write a check or send a money order and we will get all of that but in order for us to get the full donation you intend us to, you would have to add some to cover the fees.
We are still planning to have a large garage sale next month (probably towards the end of April) so if you are local and have anything you want to get rid of, feel free to bring it by.
OK I have to go get moving for the day. A few of us Michigan RR gals are getting together for lunch today and I have not even showered. Ha.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Puzzle Piece fundraiser!
I ordered the sweetest custom puzzle for Jacob's room, and it arrived today! For those that are not familiar, the pieces are available and you purchase a piece by donating. We will write your name on the piece and when all of the pieces are purchased the puzzle will be assembled and framed between 2 pieces of glass. Then it will be hung in his room and when we flip it around we will see the names of all of the people who donated to help bring him home! For a $5.30 (30 cents is the 6% paypal fee they deduct, if you pay in person you do not need to add this) donation to our Reece's Rainbow Grant Fund you get one piece. If you would like a message written on them I would recommend purchasing a couple as the pieces are not very big. I will apply the donations towards our give away as well so you are entered if you buy at least 2 pieces! This is a 252 piece puzzle and will help us raise over $1250 for our little guy!
*Update - 3/12/13 Fourteen pieces sold so far! Just 238 to go! :)
*Update - 3/18/13 Twenty Eight sold, 224 to go!
*Update - 3/19/13 Thirty sold, 222 to go!
*Update - 3/26/13 Thirty Four sold, 218 still available!
*Update - 4/6/13 Forty one sold, 211 to go!
For details about our Give-away -Click Here
Donation link for mobile users (and also updates quicker if you would like to make sure we got the funds) http://reecesrainbow.org/52513/sponsorkroll
Other ways you can support us:
Shop my Etsy Shop
Shop my Studio Page
Shop our Porch Sale
Order a custom baby/toddler quilt or minky snuggle blanket
Donate items to our garage sale in April/May or volunteer to help work it!
*Update - 3/12/13 Fourteen pieces sold so far! Just 238 to go! :)
*Update - 3/18/13 Twenty Eight sold, 224 to go!
*Update - 3/19/13 Thirty sold, 222 to go!
*Update - 3/26/13 Thirty Four sold, 218 still available!
*Update - 4/6/13 Forty one sold, 211 to go!
For details about our Give-away -Click Here
Donation link for mobile users (and also updates quicker if you would like to make sure we got the funds) http://reecesrainbow.org/52513/sponsorkroll
Other ways you can support us:
Shop my Etsy Shop
Shop my Studio Page
Shop our Porch Sale
Order a custom baby/toddler quilt or minky snuggle blanket
Donate items to our garage sale in April/May or volunteer to help work it!
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Awesome news!
When I first found Reece's Rainbow and started learning about the kids, a couple caught my heart. One of them was Jacob. Another was Emmitt. I wrote about him in the first post on this blog. My heart has been so heavy for Emmitt these last few months as this is his last year before he has no chance at a better life. Today he made it to the My Family Found Me page! This is such wonderful news that when I saw it, I could hardly hold back my tears. Praise God!
http://reecesrainbow.org/1399/emmitt
Please continue to pray for him that the adoption process goes well for his family so he can come home!
http://reecesrainbow.org/1399/emmitt
Please continue to pray for him that the adoption process goes well for his family so he can come home!
Thursday, February 28, 2013
A little nest progress
This has been one crazy whirlwind of a month. I can hardly believe it is almost gone already!! I cannot wait for spring to finally arrive and bring warmer weather (and baby bunnies & lil chirpy chicks). But at the same time I have so much to get done in the next few weeks and months. I find myself half begging for time to slow down, and half begging for it to speed up. I guess I will just have to get better at appreciating the speed at which it goes!
We are getting into the thick of paperwork now, trying to get forms filled out by the appropriate people, *just* the way they want it for the receiving country. It's tricky to get people to realize how very exact it all must be.
My day at the township went something like this:
"I need this with your letterhead and filled out."
"It's not in the records?"
"No I don't think we can leave it blank."
"Don't forget the letterhead."
"Yes it must be done in blue ink."
"Yes with your letterhead."
"No you cannot copy it after it has been signed, then notarize it."
"The Notary seal must be right side up."
"I'm sorry, it's really not me being this picky! Look here is a picture of this sweet boy you are helping."
"Thank you!" (knowing I will probably have to return the next day to have something corrected, but at least they tried. )
Faxing forms that take an hour to go through only to realize the second it goes through that you forgot to sign it and have to do it again. Drat.
Scheduling appointments for health checks for 7 people was probably a nightmare come true for the lady at the doctors office. I thought after I told her originally that I needed *7* appointments that she might need to leave the room and do some sort of stress management techniques before returning to put them in the computer. After she realized how organized I was and what we needed it for she was much better about it. I tried to make sure she knew I was a patient person, and was not in a rush. I am glad I took the time to drive out to the office to do it and that it was a very slow day at the office.
Over the last 2 years I have had the 'opportunity' to get VERY good at doing paperwork. I said all the way through it that God was just training me for when we finally got to adopt. Boy was I ever right there. It was tiring, and frustrating back then, doing the same forms 10 times over again just because some letter or word or number was not correct, or someone lost it, or what ever. I think adopting will actually be much easier because of it all. Well the paper chase part anyway! And really, the paper chase is the easiest part of adoption. The emotional toll it takes is something else entirely. It really is the "paper pregnancy" that so many have likened it to. In fact I think I am more of a hormonal mess now than I was with all of my 4 pregnancies combined. I should not be surprised about that though. At least when you are pregnant in the more usual sense, you don't worry about what is happening to your 'baby' to the same degree as you do in adoption, generally speaking. The child is not at the mercy of people you don't know, half way around the world.
So if you see me just burst into tears seemingly at random, that is probably the cause. Yesterday I was just frustrated at everything for absolutely no reason that I could figure out. Today I feel like my heart has been crying all day. Bah. Here is a GREAT blog post about how to support those stuck in the thick of this process: http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2011/11/02/how-to-be-the-village
In other news, we have slowly been making progress around the house to get it finished up. Ever room in the whole house needed paint when we moved in. So far we have painted 3 of them and picked out paint for a few more. The studio and dining room are a very pale blue. The kitchen is a light green (sort of minty), and will have some brighter yellowy green accents to brighten it up even more. The cabinets are going to be the same blue we picked out for the bathroom which is a light teal blue. The left over teal blue and brighter green will also go up in Jacob's room along with some espresso brown that I bought for painting some accents. I might use a little on the cabinets in the kitchen too. I was not sure what I wanted to do as far as nursery decor until yesterday. I didn't want it to be really babyish. He will be about 2.5 yrs old when he gets home, and will quickly outgrow all of those cutesy owl and animal themes they have (and they are pretty cute). So I was browsing through a few sites last night and finally found it. The perfect theme for his room. And for that, you will have to wait until I get it done, or at least closer. Hehe! <smirk>
I did get his new crib yesterday though. We had bought one from someone with a bedroom set sight unseen and when I got it home to put it together it was broken and recalled (grumble). I ended up deciding on one that was much lower to the ground anyway, which will be better later on as well as fit in the low sloping space of his bedroom. It was a fantastic low price, even coming with the toddler rail conversion. And it's a bit more modern looking and very sturdy. Perfect! We put it up yesterday even though we still need to paint, just because I wanted to see how it fit in the room.
If anyone is wondering about this crib, here is the link to it on Amazon. It was out of stock there when I went to order it so I did end up ordering it from Walmart instead. It is the same price there. There was a ding on one corner but it wasn't a big enough deal for me to send it back. I just faced that towards the wall. It is adjustable in mattress height and could still be lowered about 4 more inches. So when he graduates to toddler bed I won't have to worry about him rolling out from as high up as some cribs are!
Here is a picture of the old crib and a better look at the way the ceilings are in our second story. It was the attic that was renovated and made into what they technically call a 1/4 story. None of the ceilings are not sloped. Yes I hit my head occasionally still, after a year and a half, but I am getting better about placing furniture and such so that I naturally walk around the low spots. I am glad we are not any taller than we are!
That's all for now I think.
We are getting into the thick of paperwork now, trying to get forms filled out by the appropriate people, *just* the way they want it for the receiving country. It's tricky to get people to realize how very exact it all must be.
My day at the township went something like this:
"I need this with your letterhead and filled out."
"It's not in the records?"
"No I don't think we can leave it blank."
"Don't forget the letterhead."
"Yes it must be done in blue ink."
"Yes with your letterhead."
"No you cannot copy it after it has been signed, then notarize it."
"The Notary seal must be right side up."
"I'm sorry, it's really not me being this picky! Look here is a picture of this sweet boy you are helping."
"Thank you!" (knowing I will probably have to return the next day to have something corrected, but at least they tried. )
Faxing forms that take an hour to go through only to realize the second it goes through that you forgot to sign it and have to do it again. Drat.
Scheduling appointments for health checks for 7 people was probably a nightmare come true for the lady at the doctors office. I thought after I told her originally that I needed *7* appointments that she might need to leave the room and do some sort of stress management techniques before returning to put them in the computer. After she realized how organized I was and what we needed it for she was much better about it. I tried to make sure she knew I was a patient person, and was not in a rush. I am glad I took the time to drive out to the office to do it and that it was a very slow day at the office.
Over the last 2 years I have had the 'opportunity' to get VERY good at doing paperwork. I said all the way through it that God was just training me for when we finally got to adopt. Boy was I ever right there. It was tiring, and frustrating back then, doing the same forms 10 times over again just because some letter or word or number was not correct, or someone lost it, or what ever. I think adopting will actually be much easier because of it all. Well the paper chase part anyway! And really, the paper chase is the easiest part of adoption. The emotional toll it takes is something else entirely. It really is the "paper pregnancy" that so many have likened it to. In fact I think I am more of a hormonal mess now than I was with all of my 4 pregnancies combined. I should not be surprised about that though. At least when you are pregnant in the more usual sense, you don't worry about what is happening to your 'baby' to the same degree as you do in adoption, generally speaking. The child is not at the mercy of people you don't know, half way around the world.
So if you see me just burst into tears seemingly at random, that is probably the cause. Yesterday I was just frustrated at everything for absolutely no reason that I could figure out. Today I feel like my heart has been crying all day. Bah. Here is a GREAT blog post about how to support those stuck in the thick of this process: http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2011/11/02/how-to-be-the-village
In other news, we have slowly been making progress around the house to get it finished up. Ever room in the whole house needed paint when we moved in. So far we have painted 3 of them and picked out paint for a few more. The studio and dining room are a very pale blue. The kitchen is a light green (sort of minty), and will have some brighter yellowy green accents to brighten it up even more. The cabinets are going to be the same blue we picked out for the bathroom which is a light teal blue. The left over teal blue and brighter green will also go up in Jacob's room along with some espresso brown that I bought for painting some accents. I might use a little on the cabinets in the kitchen too. I was not sure what I wanted to do as far as nursery decor until yesterday. I didn't want it to be really babyish. He will be about 2.5 yrs old when he gets home, and will quickly outgrow all of those cutesy owl and animal themes they have (and they are pretty cute). So I was browsing through a few sites last night and finally found it. The perfect theme for his room. And for that, you will have to wait until I get it done, or at least closer. Hehe! <smirk>
I did get his new crib yesterday though. We had bought one from someone with a bedroom set sight unseen and when I got it home to put it together it was broken and recalled (grumble). I ended up deciding on one that was much lower to the ground anyway, which will be better later on as well as fit in the low sloping space of his bedroom. It was a fantastic low price, even coming with the toddler rail conversion. And it's a bit more modern looking and very sturdy. Perfect! We put it up yesterday even though we still need to paint, just because I wanted to see how it fit in the room.
 |
| I cannot wait to make his bedding set! |
If anyone is wondering about this crib, here is the link to it on Amazon. It was out of stock there when I went to order it so I did end up ordering it from Walmart instead. It is the same price there. There was a ding on one corner but it wasn't a big enough deal for me to send it back. I just faced that towards the wall. It is adjustable in mattress height and could still be lowered about 4 more inches. So when he graduates to toddler bed I won't have to worry about him rolling out from as high up as some cribs are!
Here is a picture of the old crib and a better look at the way the ceilings are in our second story. It was the attic that was renovated and made into what they technically call a 1/4 story. None of the ceilings are not sloped. Yes I hit my head occasionally still, after a year and a half, but I am getting better about placing furniture and such so that I naturally walk around the low spots. I am glad we are not any taller than we are!
 |
| "Jacob's" room had been the guest room. Cozy and a favorite of all. |
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Giveaway update
I wanted to add another prize on our giveaway, so I have added a $25 donation to any child/family on Reece's Rainbow. Check out the original post for all of the details!
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Getting Messy
A few weeks ago I was approached by our family pastor to do a large painting for the youth program at church. It would be a focal point on a wall for a new series they were starting. I accepted the challenge as it involved splatter painting, which is a great form of stress therapy! I completed the painting in a few days and they now have it hanging in the room at church. 'Get Messy' is the theme for their study. And though I have not looked into the curriculum to see what they are actually studying, the simple message has really struck a cord with me. Messy is exactly what we are called to be as Christ followers.
One of the most common things that I hear from people who have told their family and friends about their adoption plans things that revolve around being comfortable.
"Are you sure about this?" (Yes)
"What is this going to do to your life style?" (Who knows)
"What are your kids going to go without because of your choices?" (I suppose they won't get to go to Disney Land.. oh wait, none of them want to. hmm)
"What if it's not easy?" (Nothing worth doing is easy)
"What if it's messy?" (Good!)
Do you think that Jesus lived a life where any of those questions mattered? Was his life comfortable? No! Was his life messy? YES and I praise him for it. Where would it leave us if he had turned from the cross and said "never mind, this is too messy for me, I'd rather sit in my comfy life and be as safe as possible"? We have life and redemption because he was not afraid to 'get messy'. This is what we need to be when we live out the life God has laid before us.
When was the last time you had a life changing experience while eating potato chips in the kitchen? Or zoning out to some addictive drama on TV? I would be willing to bet that the times you have felt closest to God were the times you were in an uncomfortable spot. So why then do we shy away from everything uncomfortable? We need to be risk takers. We need to put ourselves out there for the sake of others.
We tackle many improvement projects at our house. Anyone who has done any remodeling knows it is uncomfortable, noisy, often inconvenient, and messy. When it is finished though, was it worth it? Were the bruises from misplaced hammer swings worth it? Did you grow closer to your work crew? Did you strengthen muscles you didn't know you had?
The Beth Moore study we are doing right now at Bible study is on James. This weeks video was right on with this. She asked what our Christian role models probably looked like. Do we think they were clean with the flawless hair and skin and beautiful clothes? In all likelihood they were disheveled with unkempt hair, dirty, smelly, and with a limp. They got messy. They had been bruised and broken by the life of service they led. Lord I want to finish this race looking like that! I want to drag myself over the finish line having done everything I could for his kingdom. For his people. For the least of these.
I want to get messy. Now those who visit my house might argue I already have messy down to an art. Honestly though I don't see that ever changing as long as there are real family life moments happening within it's walls, and that is ok with me. Perhaps I should paint a large sign for my front door that warns of the real life inside. I hope it would have a two fold meaning.. Our life is messy.
One of the most common things that I hear from people who have told their family and friends about their adoption plans things that revolve around being comfortable.
"Are you sure about this?" (Yes)
"What is this going to do to your life style?" (Who knows)
"What are your kids going to go without because of your choices?" (I suppose they won't get to go to Disney Land.. oh wait, none of them want to. hmm)
"What if it's not easy?" (Nothing worth doing is easy)
"What if it's messy?" (Good!)
Do you think that Jesus lived a life where any of those questions mattered? Was his life comfortable? No! Was his life messy? YES and I praise him for it. Where would it leave us if he had turned from the cross and said "never mind, this is too messy for me, I'd rather sit in my comfy life and be as safe as possible"? We have life and redemption because he was not afraid to 'get messy'. This is what we need to be when we live out the life God has laid before us.
When was the last time you had a life changing experience while eating potato chips in the kitchen? Or zoning out to some addictive drama on TV? I would be willing to bet that the times you have felt closest to God were the times you were in an uncomfortable spot. So why then do we shy away from everything uncomfortable? We need to be risk takers. We need to put ourselves out there for the sake of others.
We tackle many improvement projects at our house. Anyone who has done any remodeling knows it is uncomfortable, noisy, often inconvenient, and messy. When it is finished though, was it worth it? Were the bruises from misplaced hammer swings worth it? Did you grow closer to your work crew? Did you strengthen muscles you didn't know you had?
The Beth Moore study we are doing right now at Bible study is on James. This weeks video was right on with this. She asked what our Christian role models probably looked like. Do we think they were clean with the flawless hair and skin and beautiful clothes? In all likelihood they were disheveled with unkempt hair, dirty, smelly, and with a limp. They got messy. They had been bruised and broken by the life of service they led. Lord I want to finish this race looking like that! I want to drag myself over the finish line having done everything I could for his kingdom. For his people. For the least of these.
I want to get messy. Now those who visit my house might argue I already have messy down to an art. Honestly though I don't see that ever changing as long as there are real family life moments happening within it's walls, and that is ok with me. Perhaps I should paint a large sign for my front door that warns of the real life inside. I hope it would have a two fold meaning.. Our life is messy.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Homestudy home visit done!
I forgot to mention that our homestudy is just about done! YAY. We had our home visit two days ago and did not have any issues. Now we need to get a few forms signed by our DR and start working on dossier papers (this is the packet of documentation that goes to the country we are adopting from).
Please pray for wisdom and direction for us as we get these things done, as well as motivation to keep plugging along when there just seems to be SOOO much that needs to be done. It's almost overwhelming some days. Thanks!!
Oh and I started reading "The boy from baby house 10" yesterday. Talk about heartbreak. I am half way through it as I could not put it down. I know the story has a happy ending so I am encouraged by it. I cannot recommend this book enough if you are interested in knowing what so many of these kids face. It is not the picture of every child's journey but surely all of them share some part of it. It breaks my heart even more because I know there is a little girl living this hell right now, still waiting for a family to rescue her. I would love it if everyone could share her story and help find her family.
Meet "Kanani".. was at the same place as our "Jacob" but has been transferred to an institution and needs out ASAP. Her chances of survival there are not good.
http://reecesrainbow.org/40592/kanani
http://askingwithfaith.blogspot.ca/2013/02/the-reality.html
http://askingwithfaith.blogspot.ca/2013/02/the-reality-part-two.html
Also weighing heavily on my heart as I read that book is "Emmit" a smart young man also running out of time. He has 11 months to find a family to adopt him or he will be unable to be adopted. The cut off is 16. He turned 15 in Jan.
http://reecesrainbow.org/1399/emmitt
If you don't have the book but want a quick glimpse into this world, here is a good post on another blog:
http://theblessingofverity.com/2013/02/precious-in-his-sight/
Please pray for wisdom and direction for us as we get these things done, as well as motivation to keep plugging along when there just seems to be SOOO much that needs to be done. It's almost overwhelming some days. Thanks!!
Oh and I started reading "The boy from baby house 10" yesterday. Talk about heartbreak. I am half way through it as I could not put it down. I know the story has a happy ending so I am encouraged by it. I cannot recommend this book enough if you are interested in knowing what so many of these kids face. It is not the picture of every child's journey but surely all of them share some part of it. It breaks my heart even more because I know there is a little girl living this hell right now, still waiting for a family to rescue her. I would love it if everyone could share her story and help find her family.
Meet "Kanani".. was at the same place as our "Jacob" but has been transferred to an institution and needs out ASAP. Her chances of survival there are not good.
http://reecesrainbow.org/40592/kanani
http://askingwithfaith.blogspot.ca/2013/02/the-reality.html
http://askingwithfaith.blogspot.ca/2013/02/the-reality-part-two.html
Also weighing heavily on my heart as I read that book is "Emmit" a smart young man also running out of time. He has 11 months to find a family to adopt him or he will be unable to be adopted. The cut off is 16. He turned 15 in Jan.
http://reecesrainbow.org/1399/emmitt
If you don't have the book but want a quick glimpse into this world, here is a good post on another blog:
http://theblessingofverity.com/2013/02/precious-in-his-sight/
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Acrylic portrait painting (and more) giveaway!
I wanted to do something fun to get our FSP going up, and I have been having a lot of fun painting... soooo..
What you could win - a custom pet/animal portrait of your choice on 12x12 gallery wrapped canvas. It can be of any animal. It can be your pet parrot, your grandmother's favorite cat, a friend's deceased platypus, a favorite steed, what ever. You could even say you want a picture of a naked mole rat wearing a top hat and bow tie on a green background. No people though. Just animals. I can add a verse or wording if you like. This is a $50 value! (Our First winner, Melissa H. Chose this prize!)
This Sarah Minkiewicz Breunig medallion painted any way you like! I found this in the back of my curio and didn't have any plans for it. It measures approx 4"x4" and can be painted any realistic color, fantasy, or faux metal. your choice! These medallions are cast in polyresin for those who have never seen them before. They look great mounted in a shadow box or set on a plate display stand. It would also make a nice gift. (Joanie Berkwitz won this item!)
**OR**
A $25 gift certificate for your next purchase from my Etsy shop or Art Studio!
**OR**
A $25 gift card to AMC Movie Theaters (I have TWO)
(Amy Walstra chose one, Nickey Haywood chose the other)
**OR**
A $10 Sears gift card
Ways to enter -
*Follow* this blog for 1 entry
*Like* our FB fundraising page for 1 entry
*Share* our FB fundraising page for 1 entry
****If you do the above, please comment here and let me know what you did!****
*Donate* to our FSP $10.30* per entry (as many entries as you like) just forward the receipt showing your donation to my email!
I will draw a winner when our FSP reads $500. ***update** Instead of just drawing just one winner at $500, we will draw at $500 & at $600 we will draw the rest!! Winners get their choice of any prizes that are available when I draw their name.
Ready... Set... Go!
* We have now had to add the 3% paypal fee as Reece's Rainbow is no longer able to continue covering these. You can also mail a money order or check to the address in the donation box without adding the fee.
Donation link for mobile users (and also updates quicker if you would like to make sure we got the funds) http://reecesrainbow.org/52513/sponsorkroll
_________________
The rest of the winners are (in order of getting to pick a prize):
#1 Deanna Young
#4 Nickey Haywood
What you could win - a custom pet/animal portrait of your choice on 12x12 gallery wrapped canvas. It can be of any animal. It can be your pet parrot, your grandmother's favorite cat, a friend's deceased platypus, a favorite steed, what ever. You could even say you want a picture of a naked mole rat wearing a top hat and bow tie on a green background. No people though. Just animals. I can add a verse or wording if you like. This is a $50 value! (Our First winner, Melissa H. Chose this prize!)
**OR**
 |
| (painted example) |
This Sarah Minkiewicz Breunig medallion painted any way you like! I found this in the back of my curio and didn't have any plans for it. It measures approx 4"x4" and can be painted any realistic color, fantasy, or faux metal. your choice! These medallions are cast in polyresin for those who have never seen them before. They look great mounted in a shadow box or set on a plate display stand. It would also make a nice gift. (Joanie Berkwitz won this item!)
**OR**
A $25 gift certificate for your next purchase from my Etsy shop or Art Studio!
**OR**
$25 cash donated to the child/family of your choice (even your own) on Reece's Rainbow! (Won by Deanna Young & Family)
**OR**
A $25 gift card to AMC Movie Theaters (I have TWO)
(Amy Walstra chose one, Nickey Haywood chose the other)
**OR**
A $10 Sears gift card
Ways to enter -
*Follow* this blog for 1 entry
*Like* our FB fundraising page for 1 entry
*Share* our FB fundraising page for 1 entry
****If you do the above, please comment here and let me know what you did!****
*Donate* to our FSP $10.30* per entry (as many entries as you like) just forward the receipt showing your donation to my email!
I will draw a winner when our FSP reads $500. ***update** Instead of just drawing just one winner at $500, we will draw at $500 & at $600 we will draw the rest!! Winners get their choice of any prizes that are available when I draw their name.
Ready... Set... Go!
* We have now had to add the 3% paypal fee as Reece's Rainbow is no longer able to continue covering these. You can also mail a money order or check to the address in the donation box without adding the fee.
Donation link for mobile users (and also updates quicker if you would like to make sure we got the funds) http://reecesrainbow.org/52513/sponsorkroll
_________________
The rest of the winners are (in order of getting to pick a prize):
#1 Deanna Young
#4 Nickey Haywood
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Warm fuzzies!
I don't know what the weather has been like where you are, but up here in Michigan it has been wild. Last year we had a really warm winter, which does sound nice in theory. The problem was that the fruit trees warmed up too early, and bloomed while the bees were still asleep, or the blossoms were damaged with the frost that followed. We have a small apple orchard on the property and of the 10 or so trees there was only *one* apple. I then began to appreciate a real winter. I am trying to hold on to that now that it is here again, and so cold. Last week we had temperatures well below normal with windchills down around negative 20. This week we had temperatures soar into the mid fifties just long enough to cause an icy muddy mess that prevented school buses from being able to run the dirt roads. It also rained a LOT those couple days, causing flooding. The fog from the melting snow was so thick you could hardly see 100 feet from you. Yesterday was 54 degrees and today it is around 20 with the windchill making it feel like single digits again. Those are some crazy temperature shifts! I had to lock the ponies in the barn yesterday and last night to keep them dry so they did not freeze when the temps plummeted. Suffice to say, I am very eager for spring to finally arrive. Two more months of this. Blah!
I was talking with some friends about the cold this morning on FB, and mentioned needing coffee for the warmth and pick me up to get me going. I don't think I need it now though! Earlier this week I removed the Reece's Rainbow FSP donation link from the blog because of some virus stuff going on at the site. When I took it down, our FSP was at $10. When I put it back up today, imagine my surprise when it had jumped $200!! THANK YOU to who ever made that happen. What a wonderful surprise. I also want to thank those who have given privately through our Paypal link, or written emails offering prayer. Every bit of it is so appreciated. Thank you!
And just because I love to share, here are warm fuzzies for everyone. ;) There are days I wish I could grow a fur coat like this... but then I don't think my hubby would be too impressed if I tried!
I was talking with some friends about the cold this morning on FB, and mentioned needing coffee for the warmth and pick me up to get me going. I don't think I need it now though! Earlier this week I removed the Reece's Rainbow FSP donation link from the blog because of some virus stuff going on at the site. When I took it down, our FSP was at $10. When I put it back up today, imagine my surprise when it had jumped $200!! THANK YOU to who ever made that happen. What a wonderful surprise. I also want to thank those who have given privately through our Paypal link, or written emails offering prayer. Every bit of it is so appreciated. Thank you!
And just because I love to share, here are warm fuzzies for everyone. ;) There are days I wish I could grow a fur coat like this... but then I don't think my hubby would be too impressed if I tried!
**Fuzzy Pony Love**
(ok one more because I can't help myself..)
Saturday, January 26, 2013
The blessings of fundraising.. and it isn't always the funding
I've been wanting to write this post for a few days now but just haven't gotten a chance to do it. Last week hubby helped me set up the front porch for a fundraiser sale. We have been blessed with a beautiful little mudroom off the front of the house that makes this so easy! There is not a lot of space but it is enough to put up some shelves and display things. We do have a garage we could put a sale in but it's back a ways from the road and is not attached to the house so I can't keep an eye on things from the warmth of my studio like I can on the porch. Anyway, we set up shelves, a few tables and a curio out there with a bunch of the items that were donated to our cause or that we decided to clear out of our own stuff. I put an ad on craigslist and then a sign at the road. I mentioned on craigslist that it was a fundraiser but not what it is for.
I set it up for Friday and Saturday from 9 till 4. Friday morning when I headed out to the mailbox at 8:50, someone was already in the driveway waiting to come in! Awesome. The lady came in at 9, and started browsing through some of the stuff and spotted the Breyers I had in a curio. We got to talking and she asked what the fundraiser was for. I had printed out a picture of our little guy and had it taped to our window with some details about what the fundraiser was for, so I showed it to her. She thought it was wonderful. She then mentioned that she herself was adopted at age 5. How cool is that? And she is just getting into Breyer horses, and lives quite local to me. That is fun too. What a blessing. I hope our paths cross again someday!
We made about $100 that day, most of it was from the Breyer horses that I sold to the first customer. Not too shabby for a porch sale on one of the coldest weekends we have had in a long time.
The next day we opened and had almost no customers for quite a while. I debated taking the sign down early just so I didn't have to think about it, but I figured that if I was working in my studio (which adjoins the porch), I might as well have it open just in case. We did get a couple people stopping by, most did not buy anything. Around 1-2 pm an elderly gentleman came by. He took his time and I smiled and chit chatted with him off and on. Eventually he decided which records he wanted to buy from the stack, and asked me about the picture I had posted on the window. I told him that it was a picture of a 2 yr old little boy in an orphanage in Eastern Europe that has Cerebral Palsy, and we were trying to raise money to adopt him. His eyes absolutely beamed. He said it was a wonderful thing, then choked up a bit as he said "We have one of those.... with the palsy...". He paused a moment and then finished with "It's so worth it, go get him!". I choked back tears as I agreed. What an amazing blessing!!! God is so good. He blessed me so much those two days. And even though we ended up making only about $110 the whole weekend, I do not think I could ever put a price tag on the experience. I still get teary just thinking about it.
My mom has been digging through her stash of stuff to find things for us to sell for our fundraiser, and I cannot wait to open the 'store' again just to see what new blessings God has for us, even if we don't make a penny.
I set it up for Friday and Saturday from 9 till 4. Friday morning when I headed out to the mailbox at 8:50, someone was already in the driveway waiting to come in! Awesome. The lady came in at 9, and started browsing through some of the stuff and spotted the Breyers I had in a curio. We got to talking and she asked what the fundraiser was for. I had printed out a picture of our little guy and had it taped to our window with some details about what the fundraiser was for, so I showed it to her. She thought it was wonderful. She then mentioned that she herself was adopted at age 5. How cool is that? And she is just getting into Breyer horses, and lives quite local to me. That is fun too. What a blessing. I hope our paths cross again someday!
We made about $100 that day, most of it was from the Breyer horses that I sold to the first customer. Not too shabby for a porch sale on one of the coldest weekends we have had in a long time.
The next day we opened and had almost no customers for quite a while. I debated taking the sign down early just so I didn't have to think about it, but I figured that if I was working in my studio (which adjoins the porch), I might as well have it open just in case. We did get a couple people stopping by, most did not buy anything. Around 1-2 pm an elderly gentleman came by. He took his time and I smiled and chit chatted with him off and on. Eventually he decided which records he wanted to buy from the stack, and asked me about the picture I had posted on the window. I told him that it was a picture of a 2 yr old little boy in an orphanage in Eastern Europe that has Cerebral Palsy, and we were trying to raise money to adopt him. His eyes absolutely beamed. He said it was a wonderful thing, then choked up a bit as he said "We have one of those.... with the palsy...". He paused a moment and then finished with "It's so worth it, go get him!". I choked back tears as I agreed. What an amazing blessing!!! God is so good. He blessed me so much those two days. And even though we ended up making only about $110 the whole weekend, I do not think I could ever put a price tag on the experience. I still get teary just thinking about it.
My mom has been digging through her stash of stuff to find things for us to sell for our fundraiser, and I cannot wait to open the 'store' again just to see what new blessings God has for us, even if we don't make a penny.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Still chugging along!
We had our individual interviews yesterday, and they must have gone well enough as our Social Worker said she would tell us if we had any major issues to address. Next is the home visit! We also need to get our physicals scheduled. That bill is another biggie just because of the number of us in the house. We need *seven* physicals. I am going to ask if they have a group rate when I make the appointment. lol One can dream, right?
I did up a few more owls a week or so ago and finally got to putting the final touches on them today. I didn't have them listed on Etsy by the time a dear friend saw them and spoke up for the set. I figured that I could share them with you anyway. This size is priced at $50 each including shipping, or in this case, $135 for the set. They are 12x12 on stretched canvas. Quirky little Snowy Owls. The sideways one is my favorite.
I have 3 more canvases this size already sketched out with owls. Two are Barred owls, the other is a little ground burrowing owl. The Barred owls are a 2 piece set, the burrowing owl is separate and I have a feeling that one is going to be very hard to part with. I'm having more fun with backgrounds now and it is so cute.
Hope you are staying warm! It has been hovering around 0 degrees here the last several days. I cannot wait for spring!
I did up a few more owls a week or so ago and finally got to putting the final touches on them today. I didn't have them listed on Etsy by the time a dear friend saw them and spoke up for the set. I figured that I could share them with you anyway. This size is priced at $50 each including shipping, or in this case, $135 for the set. They are 12x12 on stretched canvas. Quirky little Snowy Owls. The sideways one is my favorite.
I have 3 more canvases this size already sketched out with owls. Two are Barred owls, the other is a little ground burrowing owl. The Barred owls are a 2 piece set, the burrowing owl is separate and I have a feeling that one is going to be very hard to part with. I'm having more fun with backgrounds now and it is so cute.
Hope you are staying warm! It has been hovering around 0 degrees here the last several days. I cannot wait for spring!
Thursday, January 17, 2013
A few jewels for you
I promised back in November or December that I would post some of my Steampunk type handmade jewelry and things just got too busy. Well here are 2 of the sets I made. They are $25 each set (earrings and necklace) including postage in the USA.
The first is an antique copper, antique brass, and green set with a leaf pendant. The chain is 28" and is made to slip over your head. I can shorten it and add a clasp though if the buyer prefers. The earrings dangle 2" and I can change the style of hook if needed.
The first is an antique copper, antique brass, and green set with a leaf pendant. The chain is 28" and is made to slip over your head. I can shorten it and add a clasp though if the buyer prefers. The earrings dangle 2" and I can change the style of hook if needed.
The second is also antique copper and antique brass in finish but has clear glass and blue (plastic I think) beads with a real antique key (not a reproduction). The chain on this one is 22" with about 3" extra for adjusting. The key is 1.5" long and not terribly heavy. The earrings dangle 1.5".
Email me if you would like to purchase either of these sets or if you have any requests.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Thank you!
First off, Thank You to who ever put the first $5 in our FSP. So exciting!!
Secondly there was a large group of people that rallied this summer to get Jacob's grant up (he had a family briefly committed during the summer). That resulted in what I affectionately call Jacob's Great Pie War. If you want to see that (and you do) it's covered here: http://askingwithfaith.blogspot.com/ THANK YOU guys for all of that love that you showed to our little boy. We so appreciate it!
Secondly there was a large group of people that rallied this summer to get Jacob's grant up (he had a family briefly committed during the summer). That resulted in what I affectionately call Jacob's Great Pie War. If you want to see that (and you do) it's covered here: http://askingwithfaith.blogspot.com/ THANK YOU guys for all of that love that you showed to our little boy. We so appreciate it!
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
It's official!
We are finally on the New Commitments page on Reece's Rainbow! Yay!! Now aren't you just dying to know who we are trying to adopt? Alright I will spill the beans...
It's "Jacob"! Oh I love this boy with all of my heart. I cannot wait to get him home so he can really thrive.
http://reecesrainbow.org/52513/sponsorkroll
Now for those of you who don't know about how the country he is in works, there is a small chance he might not be available when we get there. It is not a big chance but still a possibility. In that case we would accept a referral for a child of similar age and disability. Jacob has Spastic Cerebral Palsy. There are so many wonderful opportunities for these kids here in the US. Here he will have access to good medical care, better nutrition, therapies, and the support of a loving family.
If you would like to donate to our FSP through Reece's Rainbow you can use the link above. That donation is tax deductible if you are in the US. Those funds will be available to us when we get a travel date. There are however many costs prior to that point that we would welcome help with, so if you would like to donate to those costs, you can do so through our PayPal (or if we know you in person you may use a check/MO/cash).
We also welcome and encourage PRAYER for the process and that he would be well and loved on by the people working in and visiting the baby house.
Thank you!
It's "Jacob"! Oh I love this boy with all of my heart. I cannot wait to get him home so he can really thrive.
http://reecesrainbow.org/52513/sponsorkroll
Now for those of you who don't know about how the country he is in works, there is a small chance he might not be available when we get there. It is not a big chance but still a possibility. In that case we would accept a referral for a child of similar age and disability. Jacob has Spastic Cerebral Palsy. There are so many wonderful opportunities for these kids here in the US. Here he will have access to good medical care, better nutrition, therapies, and the support of a loving family.
If you would like to donate to our FSP through Reece's Rainbow you can use the link above. That donation is tax deductible if you are in the US. Those funds will be available to us when we get a travel date. There are however many costs prior to that point that we would welcome help with, so if you would like to donate to those costs, you can do so through our PayPal (or if we know you in person you may use a check/MO/cash).
We also welcome and encourage PRAYER for the process and that he would be well and loved on by the people working in and visiting the baby house.
Thank you!
Friday, January 11, 2013
One more owl
Same as the ones I posted yesterday. Acrylic on stretched canvas 18x24. This one titled "Disapproving Owl" is a portrait of a European Eagle Owl. $75 plus $10 shipping
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Like a duck, and an owl..?
There is a saying about ducks... calm above the water but under the water they are paddling like hell... yep that's about it right now. Not much to look at but LOTS going on. Fundraising, artwork, paperwork..
We started the Home Study process and had our first interview on Wednesday. It went very well and we were able to turn in most of our needed documentation. A lot of people have asked what all is involved in the process. The name "Home Study" is a bit misleading. They are not doing a white glove & magnifying glass study of your house. What they are doing is getting a feel for your family dynamic to make sure your family is equipped to deal with all of the stuff that comes along with adopting a child with all of the emotional baggage that comes with it. They want to know that you have the income & home space and that you have smoke detectors and all that as well, but the majority of the study is *you*. Your parenting and your ability to adjust your parenting to a child with different needs. How you and your partner deal with stress and conflict. That you can present a united loving front when it comes to discipline. And they are there to teach and empower you to be the best prepared parents you can be.
In other news we have a bunch of stuff for sale right now. Some is not yet posted on our FB page. If anyone wants to come and help sort it all out and set it up on our enclosed porch, feel free! I would love the help! Also if anyone would like to organize a fundraiser (through church, work, school, etc) we would love that. We are only able to do so much each day. Please spread the word about our FB page, this blog, any items I post for sale on FB, etc.
Thank you!!
Oh and here are some owl paintings I have for sale. $85each including shipping in the USA. They are both 18x24 acrylic on stretched canvas. I have more canvases and can get different sizes. If you have a request, feel free to ask! Email Me!
We started the Home Study process and had our first interview on Wednesday. It went very well and we were able to turn in most of our needed documentation. A lot of people have asked what all is involved in the process. The name "Home Study" is a bit misleading. They are not doing a white glove & magnifying glass study of your house. What they are doing is getting a feel for your family dynamic to make sure your family is equipped to deal with all of the stuff that comes along with adopting a child with all of the emotional baggage that comes with it. They want to know that you have the income & home space and that you have smoke detectors and all that as well, but the majority of the study is *you*. Your parenting and your ability to adjust your parenting to a child with different needs. How you and your partner deal with stress and conflict. That you can present a united loving front when it comes to discipline. And they are there to teach and empower you to be the best prepared parents you can be.
In other news we have a bunch of stuff for sale right now. Some is not yet posted on our FB page. If anyone wants to come and help sort it all out and set it up on our enclosed porch, feel free! I would love the help! Also if anyone would like to organize a fundraiser (through church, work, school, etc) we would love that. We are only able to do so much each day. Please spread the word about our FB page, this blog, any items I post for sale on FB, etc.
Thank you!!
Oh and here are some owl paintings I have for sale. $85each including shipping in the USA. They are both 18x24 acrylic on stretched canvas. I have more canvases and can get different sizes. If you have a request, feel free to ask! Email Me!
(This one is sold)
Here is another I did based on a sketch I did on my phone. It was a request and is also sold.
Here is another I did based on a sketch I did on my phone. It was a request and is also sold.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)