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Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome... |
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The families listed on this page have made it to “the end of the rainbow”. They have endured many long months of paper-chasing and fundraising in anticipation of bringing their new child home quickly.
Your sponsorship is most critical now,
as their final agency, country, and travel fees are coming due. Your help will make such a huge difference!
James and Jamie met 10 years ago through family members when James’ brother married Jamie’s cousin, however they lost touch until 4 years ago when they met up again and there was an instant connection. A friendship was formed over the next year and now 3 years later they have a wonderful marriage that grew out of their friendship. They are so proud of their blended family, two girls Emillie (15) and Bella (8) from James’ previous marriage and their son Jacob (2).
The Livshin’s were introduced to Eastern European orphans when their church sponsored a hosting program during the summer. James was born in Russia and still speaks the language and Jamie was involved in the children’s ministry so it seemed like a great volunteer opportunity. Little did they know God had a bigger plan. It all started when the hosting program was one host family short. They agreed to host a 10 year old boy and in just 3 weeks fell completely in love with him and wanted to adopt, but were unprepared for the process and the cost. After many tears it was decided it was not the right time for them to adopt but were open to it in the future. Two years later they were approached with the idea of adopting an 8 year old boy who had participated in the same hosting program, but was not adopted. After speaking with his host family they decided they would walk by faith and start the journey of a lifetime. Everything seemed to be moving smoothly and then the email came… the little boy had been referred to another family. Jamie took the news the hardest, she was heartbroken. The tears turned to anger, the anger turned to questions… why would God do this? Then the questions turned to prayer. Knowing that God is in control and has a plan for them they prayed for their hearts to be open and their minds to be patient and they would trust in Him.
James went on a mission trip to the Eastern Europe the last week of March where he met Lisa. A beautiful, kind, smart girl who has so much love to give but so little hope. She is turning 16 in two months and that means will age out of the system. She will have completed the 10th grade and be on her own all alone to face a great big world. James and Jamie can change this girl’s future. They can give her a loving home where she can be party of a family for the first time. She wants to be a chef and they can help her realize that dream. She deserves more because God has a plan for her too.
6/12/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at godsizedadventure.blogspot.com
Tyler and Rachael have been married for 7 years and currently have two kiddos (2 years old and 4 years old). They are excited beyond words to bring a new child into their family through adoption. Although a couple years ago they both would have said they weren’t “called to adopt” their eyes have been opened, their hearts broken, and a fire lit within them to welcome this child into their home with outstretched arms. They believe in three things in their household: 1. Following the will of God at all costs, 2. Loving beyond measure, and 3. Laughing your way through life. After all, sometimes in life if you don’t laugh, you’ll cry.
Tyler and Rachael are immensely thankful for each and every donation given to bring this sweet girl home. They honestly believe that each person who gives even 5 dollars is part of Laura’s journey to know the love of a family forevermore.
6/13/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.flylikeabee.com
Dave and Janie Daulton have 13 children, 5 “homegrown” and 8 adopted. One of their birth children and all 8 of their adopted children have Down Syndrome. One of their adopted daughters is Ethiopian, and four others were adopted from Eastern Europe. They have been working with orphans in Eastern Europe since 1999, with a focus on children with special needs. They have known Heather for three years, and are eager to bring her into their family. They intended to adopt her during their most recent adoption from Eastern Europe back in November 2012, and were approved for two children, but there were problems with some paperwork, so they have had to re-apply and begin their dossier all over again to complete their process for adopting Heather. They have been advocates for adoption and for the rights of children with special needs for the past 29 years, and have helped numerous couples add to their family through adoption. They really feel God has called them to adopt this one last time, as little Heather has stolen their hearts, and they hope to bring her home this summer. She is 11 years old and is the size of a 3 year old; the more time passes, the less time they will have to try and help her recover from her psycho-social dwarfism. Please pray for them and help any way you can!
6/12/13– DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.daultonfamilyadoption.blogspot.com
Kelly and Kyle thought that growing their family through adoption was going to be a little bit easier the second time around. Not long after bringing four-year-old Charlotte home in March 2012, they felt a strong tug pulling them back to their daughter’s wonderful former baby home to complete their family. They committed to bring home two beautiful little girls, both with Down Syndrome. The older of the two girls had been Charlotte’s friend and part of her groupa. With a familiar, agency, process, and country, Kelly and Kyle had hoped to be in-country during the spring.
The stroke of one man’s pen turned their plans, dreams, and future family on its head.
Instead of spending the winter months making plans to bond with their new daughters and enjoy re-connecting with the friends they met on their first adoption journey, Kelly and Kyle advocated and waited for any sort of positive news to come from their daughters’ country.
After weeks of no encouraging news, they both sat down to make heads or tails of the big and little pictures of their rapidly adoption journey.
Kelly and Kyle started this second adoption journey because they wanted their family to be a bit bigger and their house a little more crowded. They have open arms and desiring hearts—something that stood to benefit any child who waited for a mama and papa to love them.
They cannot and will not forget “Little E” or “Baby A”, and will bring them home if the doors in their country are opened again.
For now though, the way forward is clear. Kelly and Kyle’s journey has taken a turn to a new country in Eastern Europe, a new program, and a new daughter waiting for them.
Any help you can offer them as they bring Stori (who they will call Louisa) home is most appreciated!
6/13/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Ricky and Monica Sotolongo have been married for almost 6 years, and have 4 beautiful children. For some time now God has placed a burden for orphans on their hearts. A few years ago then decided to move on their passion and hosted a child from Eastern Europe for Christmas. It was during this time that gained a love and passion for Eastern Europe and its children.
Since then the Sotolongos have hosted several times and volunteered with a couple hosting programs, all of which work with Eastern European children. Even though working with hosting children is great, the Sotolongos still felt the call to adopt. After years of prayer and consideration, they felt God show them the green light to go.
Through the support of a sweet friend, Ricky and Monica came to know of “Nevada”. Shortly after seeing him for the first time the Sotolongo’s decided to pursue this sweet boy. Ricky and Monica are very excited to begin their God adventure and so are their children. The two Sotolongo boys are excited to have a new brother to share a room with.
Even in the short time since making the decision to adopt the Sotolongos have experienced God’s love and provision. They realize that God loves children and those who are children of God hear and listen to His voice. God is calling his children, whom He has redeemed and adopted, to rescue the lost children of this world. Ricky and Monica feel privileged that God is using them to redeem a child and pray that others also heed the call to adopt.
6/10/13—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://pursuedandtreasured.blogspot.com/
Jeff and Shauna met 18 years ago when they were set up on a blind date. Lots of years, laughter, tears and 4 children later and it looks like things are working out!
When Shauna was 12 years old she saw a documentary on children in Eastern European orphanages and something inside her broke. After begging her mom to adopt and that not happening, she decided that some day she would adopt. After years of working on convincing Jeff, he said yes and they have started on their journey. Although he does admit that he totally knew going in that this was where the road would lead! Shauna has always been drawn to children with special needs, especially those with Down syndrome and after having 4 children with a genetic brain disorder, Jeff and Shauna realized that they were very well equipped to bring home a child with Down syndrome.
Originally Shauna knew in her heart that international adoption is what she wanted to do, but after praying and talking about it, Jeff and Shauna decided that domestic adoption would be the best fit for their family. This summer, after being matched with a birth mom and growing to love her, she decided to parent the baby and they were heartbroken, but so proud of her. They are still in contact with her and consider her to be a part of their family that they love very much. After the failed adoption they weren’t sure if they were supposed to continue, but God whispered that their baby was still waiting and after praying, decided to step out and go where God was leading them the whole time!
Shauna has followed Reece’s Rainbow for several years and has watched several friends bring home children from all corners of the world. Bringing home this sweet baby boy truly is a dream come true for this family and they appreciate your support and prayers! They are currently fundraising, filling out grants, working on the mountain of dossier paperwork and praying that this sweet baby can be home soon!
6/7/13—COURT on JULY 9
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://macnsweetpeas.blogspot.com/
James and Michelle love life and there family. They have 4 kids (Megan 11, Madison 6, Erin 3, and Gavin 17 months) and the youngest has Down Syndrome. Michelle is a home maker and her husband James has been in the Marine Corps for19 years! Prior to having children, Michelle was a pre-school teacher for 10 years! Michelle had seen lots of pictures of these beautiful children before, but it was one that stole her heart. It was of a little boy named Zane # 49-5! For her it was love at first sight. She knew she should be his mommy! Michelle spoke with her husband and after discussing it there was no doubt that they should be Zane’s mommy and daddy and give him a forever home, with all the unconditional love and support every child deserves! They have decided to rename him Wyatt James Young. The whole family can’t wait to have him home! Zane has no idea just how loved and wanted he is by his forever family! So please come join the Young family on this beautiful journey of bringing Zane aka Wyatt home!
4/18/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://bringinghomewyatt.blogspot.jp/
Lance and Kallie McFall have been married for 3 years and have 2 wonderful fur babies. A Red Heeler named Koda and a Blue Heeler named Hank. Lance is a Firefighter and Kallie refers to herself as a domestic diva!
Early on in their dating relationship, they knew that they wanted a family and thought that adoption might be something they would pursue after having biological children first. But God had better plans in mind. In early 2012, they both began praying and asking the Lord to show them how he wanted them to start their family. After coming across Reece’s Rainbow and scrolling through the pictures, Kallie felt the tug on her heart and suggested the idea of special needs adoption to Lance. He agreed that he felt the Lord calling them to adopt. After looking through the pictures and profiles on Reece’s Rainbow together, they came across a sweet girl named Jessa. They committed to bringing her home and were in the home study process when the ban in Russia came into law. After praying about the future of their adoption, they felt that the Lord leading them to another country. After deciding to switch to the a different program they found Kenna who had recently been listed on RR. They cannot wait to make her their daughter!
Kenna was taken home by her birth family, so the McFalls will be bringing home Vanessa!
6/6/13—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://www.walkinginhissight.blogspot.com/
Joe and Nicole have been married for 14 years. They’ve been involved with at-risk youth ministry in their 14 years together.
In 2010, they were called to the orphan ministry and hosted an Eastern European boy who is now their son, Kolya. In early 2012 they tried to adopt another boy who told them no. He succumbed to the peer pressures and decided that family life was not something he wanted. This was devastating to the Dewberry family. In May of 2012 God brought them to RR and their little Tania. Tania is an HIV+ girl from Eastern Europe. This was truly a God thing, the Dewberrys were broke using all their financial resources after two adoptions, one failed. In the space of just over three weeks so many amazing people came to Joe and Nicole’s aid to raise all the money needed to bring Tania home. The Dewberrys went to Eastern Europe not expecting to bring home Tania’s “wing man” Stopa (Stepan). Stopa is also diagnosed as HIV+ along with many other health issues. The donations kept coming in when they were in country for Tania and God made it clear to return for Stopha. The bond with Stopha and the Dewberrys was right from the get go. Nicole and Stopha joke about stalking each other because they hated to be apart. Stopha’s adoption was fully funded in 3 short months by the donations that continued to come in while they were in country for Tania as well as the funds raised when the Dewberrys arrived home after her adoption. God is truly good!
God has brought the Dewberrys back to Eastern Europe for mission work just about every 3 months with their own adopted kids to work with orphans. On the last mission trip in March/April it was clear God has called them back for three more, Scott & Sebastian and Steven! Sebastian has already “timed out” age and grade wise and no idea where to go and no family to turn too. Sebastian by nature is quiet and reserved and often blamed for things he does not do because he is not one to fight and stand up for himself. He let Nicole know he wanted a family, asked her for help to find him one and wrote her a letter letting her know he was grateful for her help. Scott has also just “timed out” of school graduating like Sebastian and also like Sebastian has no family to turn to. Scott is an incredible young man and highly respected and trusted at the school to care and look after the children or something he maybe entrusted with. He has a tender heart and sees the needs of others and always one to step in to help and protect. Nicole interviewed Steven in order to find him a hosting family and the two bonded vey fast and were never far apart for long. He was with either Nicole of Kolya the entire time they served. All the boys and Kolya were inseparable and bonded from the get go. The Dewberrys had hoped to host Steven this summer but were unable to because the hosting programs were pulled so he could not come. The boys are in boarding school together and care for one another and Scott and Sebastian had hoped the Dewberrys would adopt them both. Steven although adoption was not discussed it was clear there was a bond. Scott like Sebastian has no aim on where to go when they leave and are ready and been hoping for a family. Steven is a determined young man to make it and not fall into crime and avoids getting near any kind of trouble and has so much ahead of him and is inspiring. So now the Dewberrys are now on the move to adopt these boys and beat the clock to bring them home.
6/7/13—APPT IS JULY 31
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.andthisonematters.blogspot.com
Ryan and Natalie are a young couple that has been through more in their first couple years of marriage then most families ever experience. They were married in 2011 and they have a son who will turn 1 in April 2013. Ryan works at an engineering firm as a CAD drafter and Natalie will graduate in May 2013 with her degree in Psychology and Christian counseling. They have always know that they would adopt someday, but never would of considered adopting children with special needs.
Their normal newly wed life changed drastically on the day after their first ultra sound when they were told that their son, Landon had a very rare and severe heart defect. After their son’s birth they spent three weeks in the hospital as Landon underwent two open heart surgeries in his first two weeks of life. When the family finally was able to go home and begin their life together, they knew that they were ruined for a normal life. Their eyes had been opened to a world full of pain and suffering and what they found was that in the midst of the heartache there was something more beautiful and meaningful then anything they had ever known. They realized that life is short and the only thing they can take with them into eternity are the lives that they touch. Shortly after they got home, God began speaking to them about the need for every child to have a loving advocate to fight for them. They knew God was calling them to adopt children with special needs and one night Natalie stumbled on Reece’s Rainbow through a blog. When her eyes fell upon a little five year old named Ivan she knew she would never be the same. “It was like his eyes spoke to my heart and asked me if I would love him.” The couple began praying for Ivan and just when they sensed God telling them to adopt him, they found another five year old boy in the same orphange who had faced unspeakable rejection in his short life. “We knew that we couldn’t go to the orphanage to adopt Ivan and not do everything we possibly could to rescue Simeon as well.” That is when they did something that most people would consider a crazy leap of faith and committed to adopting both boys.
Soon after they told God Yes to adopting His children with special needs, God began to perform a miracle on Landon’s heart. They were originally told that Landon would only have one functioning ventricle to sustain him for his lifetime, but in January 2013, Landon had his third and last surgery. He now has a normal functioning, two ventricle heart. The young couple knows that God gave them a child with a broken heart so that He could break their hearts for the things that break His. They know that their journey with their son was meant to open their eyes to the path that God is calling them down as they adopt His precious ones.
The family’s moto is “Every heart deserves a home. Every child deserves a chance.”
Please join this family in praying that God would level the mountains that stand in between them and these two precious ones.
6/6/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at ourlegacyoflove.blogspot.com
FULLY FUNDED!!!
UPDATE: The Steinhoffs will also be bringing home PEYTON!
To say the Steinhoff family are not new to adoption would be an understatement. The Steinhoffs have been called many times,and each and every time God called they said YES! It hasn’t always been easy says Rona,but it is always worth it !! The Steinhoffs were first called to adopt from Foster Care,that call infact came 6 times,with 8 children later. Ethiopia soon followed and little did they know,they would return and adopt twice from there as well,bringing home Symone age 10 and Zoe 2 and Abigail age 8.Three years later, once again God sparked a sibling group of 5 siblings,from Ethiopia, their family was looking for a new family. Rick and Rona met these children, they were infact from the same orphanage as Symone and Zoe .Well the rest is history, the Steinhoffs said Yes and welcomed Samuel 13, Noah 11, Mariah 9, Faith 6, and Gracie 2 into the family with arms wide open. We aren’t a weathly family by any means explains Rick ,but by total faith, we go when God says go,its just that simple. We have never gotten anything from grants,we have no savings accounts,being a large family takes care of that. God has built this family one by one,and He has provided,dollar by dollar,never doubt,He IS in the details!
The Steinhoff family is stepping up once again and this time they are blessing their family with a sweet little girl from China who has Downs Syndrome. The Steinhoffs are excited to be bringing Carrington Sophia home. They hope to travel around March 2013.They ask for your prayers first and foremost. If God calls you to help them bring Carrington home,they want you to know you are BIG part of Gods plan,without you, this could not happen,again,it really IS that simple,no gift is too small.. God sees them all. Our family THANKS YOU,Sweet lil Carrington,says Thank you.
6/14/13—USCIS APPROVED, HOPING TO TRAVEL IN AUGUST
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://steinhofffamily22.blogspot.com/
Ernie and Jamie were destined to love each other, they perfect for each other and count themselves blessed for every day they have had and will together. After a whirlwind romance and a short courtship Ernie and Jamie were married, almost 8 years later we have never been happier or laughed more. Ernie and Jamie decided pretty quickly after entering into their relationship that adoption would be part of their future. The Valleys have 3 children, Jewel (12) and twins Wolfgang and Jaeger (4), who are all very excited to welcome their new sister into their adventures. Jamie learned about Reece’s Rainbow shortly after friends of hers found their daughter there. That little girl would turn out to be a catalyst in our lives and our thoughts on international special needs adoption changed. Ernie and Jamie owe many thanks to that little girl and maybe one day they’ll be able to tell her so. As the medical issues they were willing to work with and accept became larger and larger, it became an understanding that a special needs adoption was in order for our family as well. After much soul searching, some, more than one unforeseen circumstance and lots of positive thoughts, Ernie and Jamie have found a little girl with a smile on her face and laughter in her eyes and as soon as they can make it so, that little girl will be sharing her smile and laughter with her new forever family, in her new forever home. The country that beautiful little girl lives in is closed to Americans for now, after that heartbreak they have found a silver lining. Ernie and Jamie are able to bring another beautiful child home and make her part of their family and a little sister. They are very excited to show her what a family is and what it is like to love, giggle before bed and be happy. Ernie and Jamie have learned that a house full of children makes a lifetime of laughter and are thankful to all the muses and catalysts they have encountered along the way.
6/3/13—USCIS APPROVED
Every adoption is an adventure and a leap of faith, whether it’s your first time – or your 5th like Scott and Rachel Whitmire.
Scott and Rachel met in college and have been married for almost 12 years. Scott is a police officer and Rachel is a stay at home mom and also works for Reece’s Rainbow as our Post Adoption Care Coordinator. They have 4 beautiful children through adoption, including two precious girls with down syndrome, and they thought their family was complete. God must have smiled when they told Him their “plan”, though, because one more child has touched their hearts.
Scott and Rachel are excited to “yes!” to one more Whitmire – a tiny boy waiting in Eastern Europe. Nicholas is 4 years old and weighs only 15 pounds due to the poor conditions in his institution. He has cerebral palsy that has not been treated and is very much like an infant as a result. To the Whitmires, though, Nicholas is perfect and they can’t wait to have him join their family!
This adoption is a complete leap of faith for the Whitmires but they are trusting that God has got this and that He’ll provide! Will you help with their adoption expenses? Every dollar brings them just a little bit closer to welcoming Nicholas home.
5/1/13—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at promotingwhatwelove.blogspot.com
Brian and Jennifer Heaton have been married for almost 13 years now. They have one biological son that is five years-old now, who would make a wonderful big brother. They have been trying to grow their family for several years now, but after going down many different avenues, have come to the realization that God is leading them to adopt. They began a Russian adoption in 2011 and, after being accepted, they decided to cancel the adoption in the Summer of 2012. At the time, they didn’t know why God was tugging on their hearts to stop the adoption, but they trusted in Him. In the Winter of 2012 they realized why they had stopped the adoption from continuing. Russia had closed its doors to U.S. adoptions and those that were ongoing.
Brian and Jennifer still believed in adoption, but didn’t know from where. They began to think about waiting children. They didn’t realize there were so many waiting children that just need a chance to be given a normal life. While looking at waiting children on the Internet they came across Kaia on Reece’s Rainbow. When they saw her they knew that she was the one for them. They would love to give Kaia the life that she deserves. If she is not adopted then she will not have a chance to go to Kindergarten next year. Instead, she will go to an institution. She deserves to go to Kindergarten, have the best medical treatment and have a family that loves her.
Adoption is one of the greatest gift you can give a child, it is also very expensive. Brian and Jennifer would appreciate any help that you could give them. They always remember that God is in control and He will provide the things we need.
6/7/13—APPT IS JULY 24
Follow the Heaton family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://waitingforourlovelylittlegirl.blogspot.com
Ammon and Michelle met while they were both serving on active duty in the Army. It was a whirlwind courtship and they were married after only 4 months. Most people believed their marriage would be a casualty of military life, but nearly twelve years later, they have proven that assumption wrong. Within a month of marriage, Michelle became pregnant with their first child, who arrived at the end of 2001. In late 2002, they left the Army and moved to Ammon’s hometown in Idaho and later moved to Ohio. Babies #2 and #3 were not as easy to conceive and it was during this time that Michelle first discovered international adoption and Reece’s Rainbow. Adoption is very close to their hearts. Michelle is paternally adopted and Ammon’s family adopted his best friend and made him a brother during their teen years. When Michelle presented Ammon with the idea of adopting themselves one day, Ammon was immediately on board. They thought it was something they would pursue “someday” but weren’t sure when. Every year, Michelle would spend hours looking at kids on Angel Tree, donate what she could afford, and show Ammon about 20 different kids that would be “perfect” for them. On Christmas of 2009, they got the most unexpected gift ever….a positive pregnancy test. Baby #4 arrrived in late 2010. After 4 children, Ammon and Michelle felt they were “done.” But God stirred Michelle’s heart and she felt they were not quite done. It was then that Ammon suggested they look at adoption again, and Michelle’s Facebook feed started to fill up with posts being shared by Reece’s Rainbow advocates and friends. This time, Michelle felt the need to begin advocating for these precious children through her blog and Facebook accounts. At the same time, a family who had adopted through RR moved into their church. All the questions she had were answered. It didn’t take long before Michelle felt they should adopt one of these precious children….but how to choose just one? Ammon was very supportive and felt any (or all) of the children they were considering would be a great blessing. So, after much prayer, they finally narrowed the list to three, then two, then one. From here on out, they are taking each step on faith, relying on God to get them through.
5/30/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://imageryofmyheart.blogspot.com/
Daryl and Ruth have been married since 1985, after a 4 year friendship. They have 12 biological children, ages 26 down to 1 year old, 10 of whom are still living at home. Their 4 yo daughter, Esther, has Down syndrome and is such a blessing to their family. Ruth runs a home business selling cloth diapers and training pants, which focuses on products for children, youth and adults with special needs, so this has allowed her many contacts to other families with children who have special needs. Last year, Ruth discovered Reece’s Rainbow. Last spring she began to advocate for children and families there. But the desire to help these children took a deeper root in her heart, and the thought of adopting began to take root. After much discussion, research and prayer as a family they decided it was time to step out in faith and attempt to adopt a little one with Down syndrome. They have learned so much through their journey with Esther, and they want to use this experience to bless another little one by bringing that child into their home and giving them a forever family.
5/24/13—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at aseventhsister.blogspot.com
James and Christy met in the spring of 2007 and they married three years later. Combined they have 5 children. Their youngest 3 children are teenagers and reside at home. James works for a local hospital in Behavioral Health and with children who have special needs. Christy works for a large telecommunications company in Information Technology as a Service Management Specialist. James and Christy are looking to expand their family and are pursuing an international adoption. They have a 1.5 year old son on hold in an Eastern European country and are very excited to meet him!
Christy started researching adoption in the spring of 2012. She feels strongly that God has led her and James to adopt a child with special needs. She found the Reece’s Rainbow website and was shocked by the sheer volume of children that need to be adopted. She continued to research adoption and talked to James about it at great length. After looking at many profiles for children she found their son. Once she saw his picture she knew he was theirs without much hesitation at all. Within hours they committed to him. Everyone in the family has watched the videos of him and are anxious to bring him home.
6/2/13—DOSSIER in COUNTRY
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at motherslittlehelper004.blogspot.com
Willy and Ines are parents of five children , their three older boys already out to college . At home they have their son Daniel and daughter Lucia ,both four years old. They adopted their little princess Lucia (the only girl!) from Eastern Europe in October 2010 and they fell in love with their daughter’s birth country, its people and culture.
The decision to adopt again have been prayerfully considered by the Wallaces during the last 12 months . Willy and Ines feel that they have been led by the Lord to adopt a “little boy” from Eastern Europe with cardiac deficits. They don’t know for sure how severe this little boy’s medical status is right now ,but they believe in God’s perfect plan, and they are certain that he will thrive under US Medical Technology combined with the love and care of his forever family!
Their 4 years old son Daniel made it very clear when he said to them: “If we go find him and bring him home with us ,he will have mommy and daddy ,and his heart won’t be broken anymore!” ,…. as easy as that!, and we are up to the challenge!
The Wallaces will be blessed and honored if you join them in prayer as they work as diligently and as fast as possible to bring this little angel to his home, where he belongs!
“And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me”
Mathew 18:5
..”You are the helper of the fatherless. LORD, You have heard the desire of the humble; You will prepare their heart ; You will cause Your ear to hear , to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, that the man of earth may oppress no more”
Psalms10:14,17-18
5/30/13—DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at takeourhearts.blogspot.com
Ben & Jen met in 1994, became high school sweethearts, and married in 1998. He works as a retail assistant store manager and she is a stay at home mom and artist. They have five great kids: Katlyn 15, Andrew 13, Emily 11, Faith 10, and Leanna 10 (yes twins!). When pregnancy complications became too risky, it became clear that to grow their family it would have to be through adoption. Over the years it became Jen’s deepest desire of her heart to be able to help orphans, especially those with special needs. After a few more years of prayer and hard work, God provided the larger home that they would need. He also provided the resources and support that they would need to adopt a child with special needs. In the fall of 2012 Jen found Reece’s Rainbow. As she looked through the profiles, one grabbed her heart, and she started thinking that it might be time to start the adoption journey. Unknown to her, Ben was thinking the same thing. When he saw the face of the little one she had fallen in love with, he agreed. It was time to go get their son. All of their kids are excited about the new addition to their family and they cannot wait to meet him. Both Ben & Jen thank everyone that has donated, advocated, thrown pies and prayed for this precious little boy. It means the world to them that others care so much for him. Without their help, they may have never seen his profile. They thank you for your continued support.
5/30/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at a-sparrows-nest.blogspot.com
After dating for 9 years, Katie and Paul were married in Birmingham, Alabama on July 26, 2003. Katie’s occupation is a stay at home mother to their two sons. Paul is the owner of a classic car restoration business.
Soon after they married they wanted to have children, but Katie was diagnosed with an uterine anomaly and was told not to have children. At this point they began their domestic home study. Soon after they had completed their home study, they became pregnant with their first son, Paul Vincent, born on April 13, 2006 at 4 pounds, 7 ounces. He just celebrated his sixth birthday. Three years later, they welcomed their second miracle baby boy, Christopher, born May 24, 2009 at 3 pounds, 2 ounces. He will soon celebrate his third birthday.
This past Christmas, they learned that they were pregnant, only to suffer a devastating miscarriage shortly after. They know that God has a plan for their family and they feel a strong connection to Rose. They both feel called to adopt her and feel confident that she will receive all of the love and services (as a child with special needs) that she desires!
6/18/13—DOSSIER APPROVED, WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog http://heavenslittlerose.blogspot.com/
Cody and Merry were blessed to grow up in the same rural mining and farming community. After dating a little in high school, they attended different colleges and served church missions (Cody in Poland and Merry in Venezuela). Five years after high school, they reconnected and were married in 2000. Cody works as an attorney and before their children came, Merry worked as a behavior specialist with special needs children. They are blessed to have four happy, energetic children (ages 9-2).
Early in their marriage, Cody and Merry developed valued friendships with children and adults with special needs through the Utah State University Special Olympics and by planning and attending weekly activities for a church-based group of teenagers and adults, called the Cache Valley Special Needs Mutual.
They know that the Lord is in the details of their lives and has led them to seek out and adopt a child with Down Syndrome from Eastern Europe. Please join them in their journey to find their “little-one.” They request your prayers and support as they move forward to bring him home.
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” 2 Cor. 5:7
5/30/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at lightingoursteps.blogspot.com
High school sweethearts, Cliff and Erin Forbes have been married for almost 15 years. Erin felt drawn to adoption even as a young child and somehow she knew that adoption would be in her future. She let Cliff know this when they were still dating in high school so that he wouldn’t be surprised later on! Shortly after getting married, and while still completing college, Erin was drawn to international adoption and began researching. She quickly realized that not only were they too young but they hadn’t been married long enough, and weren’t financially stable enough either. So, international adoption was put on the back-burner for many years but orphan care has always been tugging at their hearts. Throughout the years of welcoming biological children to their family, the desire to adopt never waned. Cliff and Erin have been involved in orphan care through being on their local statewide adoption list, but because of the push for kinship care in their state they never received a placement. They also pursued a private adoption in which the birth mother decided to parent her baby, and they have also been involved in the foster care system for the past four years. Cliff is a pastor and Erin recently left her teaching career to be at home full-time with their four children–Olivia (9), Sawyer (7), Collin (4), and Makena (1 1/2). Recently, they have decided to investigate the possibility of international adoption yet again. This time, the investigation took a different turn as they became aware of the plight of special needs orphans around the world. Cliff and Erin begin to considering what it would be like to parent a special needs child. Erin became acquainted with Reece’s Rainbow’s ministry and began to talk to Cliff about the possibilities, and it was there that they “met” Micah. Although this is new territory for them as a couple and as a family, both Cliff and Erin are excited to see all that God has in store for their family!
5/20/13—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at theforbesfive.blogspot.com
Darrell and Haley were married in 2007. After a short period of infertility, they welcomed their delightful daughter Helene in June, 2012. They knew right away they wanted more children and as soon as possible. They did not anticipate what the Lord had planned.
A friend of Haley’s family adopted a little girl from Bulgaria in November, 2012. She was almost four years old and weighed only ten pounds. Haley’s heart was broken for the orphans in that moment. Naturally it took her husband Darrell a little longer to be convinced, as Haley is the “gas pedal” and Darrell is the “brake”, but he could see the Lord working.
Things were happening all around them that couldn’t be explained except for that it was God telling them what He wanted. Not just to advocate and donate, but to open their home and become a mom and dad to one of the children on Reece’s Rainbow.
When Haley first saw Copeland’s photo, she was struck immediately by how much he looked like their daughter Helene. She wasn’t able to stop thinking about him and praying for God to tell her if Copeland was the little one for them.
Darrell and Haley continue to let God lead the way for them and pray that others will see that ordinary families can pursue adoption.
5/23/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at thebuhmanbunch.blogspot.com
The Feser family’s tale is one of God taking two very ordinary and flawed people and giving them an extraordinary calling. When Mike and Julee married in 1990 they created a “yours, mine and ours” kind of family with eight biological children between them. Blessed with their large family, adoption was something that never crossed their minds.
About ten years into their marriage the Lord called them out of their lukewarm faith and began preparing them for a grand adventure. Mike and Julee were quite surprised when they discovered God was asking them to adopt an orphan. As a couple that was almost empty nesters the idea of adopting a child was daunting. Once they decided to obey the Lord and begin an adoption; they became totally jazzed up about the idea of adopting a child! In December of 2001 they found themselves in China adopting a precious toddler girl. Since then they have added nineteen more children through the miracle of adoption. Their children have been adopted from China, South Africa, Ethiopia, Vietnam and the U.S.
The Fesers were experienced parents who had already raised biological children. Because of their experience they felt if they were going to adopt it should be children who for whatever reasons had a harder time finding families. The family is now comprised of children from all over the world who also happen to deal with many kinds of special needs. Some of the issues they deal with are cerebral palsy, HIV+, Hep B, limb differences, cancer, Down Syndrome, Autism, spina bifida, post polio, heart defects, burn scars, etc… These things might sound challenging but the reality is that the special needs are not what defines the Feser children. Each and every child is dearly loved and a blessing to the family.
Mike and Julee now have only fourteen minor children still living at home. They are thrilled to be adopting again. In January, Mike will bring home from China two year old Belen (Penny on Reece’s Rainbow) who has a heart defect and has Down Syndrome ; and eight year old Josie with cerebral palsy. They are also beginning the adoption of Daniel a five year old Down Syndrome boy with heart defects.
Daniel was the foster brother to the girls adopted last year. He desperately needs heart surgery not available to him in his province in China. For the first time the Fesers find themselves needing to fund raise to pay for Daniel’s adoption. They know that God always provides what is needed to do what He says to do. God has shown that the Fesers need help from others in order to bring precious Daniel home to receive life saving heart surgery. Please pray for Daniel and consider donating to the funds needed for his adoption.
5/20/13—LOA RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at stillwaterjulee.blogspot.com
Mat and Necia met in college while working at Karsten Creek Golf Course in Stillwater, OK. Just after they met she turned to a co-worker and said “I am going to marry that boy!” Eleven months later, her prediction came true. They have been married 7 years and have been blessed with two children. Andrew and Olivia were both born prematurely after very difficult pregnancies. They were advised by multiple doctors to not have more children. They had talked about adoption, but Necia wasn’t ready to give up on having more biological children. Over time though, thoughts and conversations about adoption grew into a whole-hearted desire to answer God’s call to care for the orphan.
Necia spent many hours looking through waiting child profiles. She knew in her heart that their next child would be someone that had special needs. One evening she was looking through profiles like she’d done often before, but this time was different. A little boy caught her eye. She started reading through his profile and knew instantly that he was going to be her son. She learned that he has neurofibromatosis, a genetic disease also shared by Mat and Olivia. He also has mild developmental delays, slight hearing loss, and possible fetal alcohol syndrome. Necia was ecstatic and couldn’t wait to show Mat. He agreed that they needed to do whatever was needed to make him part of their family.
5/2/13—HOPING FOR COURT IN JULY
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://pray-for-all-things.blogspot.com/
Joel and Holly met their Senior year of high school. After dating for 4 years, they were married in 1997. They always knew they wanted to have children someday, but wanted to wait for a couple of years before trying to become pregnant. As their 2 year anniversary was approaching, they decided it was time to start having children. After many disappointing months of not becoming pregnant, they began to seek medical advice as to why they were not achieving a pregnancy. It was soon discovered that without assisted reproductive therapy they would not likely become pregnant on their own. They tried infertility treatments for a couple of years, without success. They then decided it was time to move on to a different route for building their family.
In February of 2003 they officially decided to begin the adoption process. They were quickly matched with a wonderful birth mother who was pregnant with TWINS! Jacob and Lane were born in November of that same year. When the boys were about 9 months old they began talking about having another child. On the same day, but at different times, Holly and Joel both heard a newscast about President George W. Bush supporting something called Embryo Adoption. On that day they both knew that embryo adoption was how they would have their next child, but they would not begin that process until the twins were two years old. When the boys turned two, Holly began researching Embryo Adoption. A few short weeks later they applied to an embryo adoption a clinic in Knoxville, Tennessee. By September of 2006 they had a match with a wonderful donating family and the transfer occurred. A little girl, Karissa, was born into their family in June of 2007.
Following the birth of their daughter, Holly always felt they needed one more girl to complete their family. Joel, however, didn’t desire any more children. Over the course of the next several years, Joel began to have a heart for orphans. They both began to pray and seek God’s will about adding another child to their family. After getting settled in a new state, they began to explore the possibility of adopting a little girl through domestic adoption. They completed a home study and submitted their profile for several different adoption situations. After several months they became increasingly aware of orphans around the world. They signed up with a website that lists special needs orphans and sends out e-mails of children in need of a loving family. One day Holly received an e-mail with the profile of a little girl with severe scoliosis. Since Holly also has scoliosis, this e-mail caught her attention. After sharing the e-mail with Joel, they began to pray and wonder if this was their little girl. After several weeks of discussing and praying about this particular girl, they decided to take a leap of faith and pursue her through adoption.
5/8/13—-DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at bulgariaorbust.wordpress.com
Rick and Lynn S have been married 9 years. They met when Rick took his three black labs in to his veterinarian and had to see the “new” doctor. One of those labs, Kasey, developed cancer and sadly passed away after several surgeries and chemotherapy, but by then, a pretty serious friendship had developed. Rick and Lynn both wanted to home school, wanted a large family, and once they were married, found that their faith in the Lord was growing, together. They now have 4 children, from 2 to 7 years old. Their 7yo is gifted in music and reading, and their 5yo is the little scientist. Her “experiments” cover the house! Miss 2 is a princess and keeps everyone laughing! Their 4yo son, the only boy so far, loves farming and tractors, and he is thrilled that the whole family has moved back to Lynn’s birthplace, a historic 6th generation pecan farm. All the children enjoy the wide open spaces, sunshine, and the raised bed gardens, fruit orchards, and vineyard Rick has planted and maintains. Being a veterinarian, Lynn couldn’t pass up the opportunity to get a few critters….the children have pet goats, chickens, ducks, doves, farm dogs, and one visually impaired rescue cat who rules the garden.6/6/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Jack and Susie have been married for thirteen years. They have three biolgical daughters, ages 10, 8, and 6. They also have and adopted daughter from Guatemala who is 4 and an adopted son from the US who is 9 months old. Jack and Susie have a heart for special needs but didn’t feel God was leading them towards another adoption until they saw Jeremiah’s picture on Reece’s Rainbow. Their hearts were burdened for this precious child, living in an oprhanage, waiting on a forever family. Immediately they felt called to adopt this sweet boy who is blind. Together they prayed about moving forward with his adoption, relying on God to provide the necessary finances. Their older children are so excited to bring Jeremiah home and help him adjust to a life in America as a visually impaired person. They are looking forward to raising him to know the love of Christ and the meaning of being adopted into His kingdom.
5/8/13—HOPE TO BE HOME SOON!
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://townsendgirl.blogspot.com
Lisa and Paul have been married for 17 years. They have three biological children. Their boys (ages 7 and 9) are GREAT big brothers to their baby sister (almost 2) who happens to be a princess with Down Syndrome. The Olsens tried to adopt internationally a few years ago, but the country closed its doors to adoptions with the United States while they were in the process. They were unable to complete their adoption, which was devastating. Lisa’s heart remained tender towards adoption, but they were very reluctant to go down that path again. After the birth of their daughter, they discovered Reece’s Rainbow. Lisa visited the site often, looking at the waiting children and reading about the incredible families who opened their homes and hearts to orphans with special needs. The Olsens spent months waiting and praying, wondering if God was calling them to step out in faith and begin the adoption process again. One little girl in particular touched Paul’s heart. Even then, Paul said “God would have to hit him over the head with a shovel” to convince him it was time to move forward. Well, Paul’s head is still tingling! God flung the doors wide open for the Olsens to step forward to adopt Maelie! The Olsen family is humbled and excited to begin their adoption journey and welcome another princess into their home!
6/12/13—WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Sean and Tonya have been married for almost 15 years and have 2 WONDERFUL boys, Caleb and Jacob. They have been involved in various types of ministry, including foster care. Fostering and adopting has always had a place in their hearts. Most recently, God really made clear that they were to adopt internationally. Tonya started scouring the Internet, looking for programs and answers to questions and discovered the “waiting child” list that many agencies have. They didn’t have a specific country that they felt drawn to, so they kept looking at the list. Their family has experienced what it’s like to have a child with developmental delays and knows that a child can flourish with the right dedication! Realizing that children with special needs may be harder to find adoptive families for, they decide to pursue this path.
After many (MANY) hours of clicking through websites, pictures and asking every question imaginable, they found their girl! They would take a break and come back to check the list again and she would still be there. Waiting for them! So, the paper chase and money saving began!
Their sweet girl, Lana (soon to be Julianna!) is waiting at an orphanage to come home. And back home in the southern USA, there are 2 little boys that are ready for their sister! This family is so excited to add another sweet member to their family. They are ready to bring her HOME.
5/3/13—HOPING FOR COURT MID SUMMER
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://peaceloveandcaffeine.wordpress.com/
Brian and Keri have been blessed with 14 years of marriage and counting, with God as the glue…Marriage takes three! They always thought they would have their own children, when and if it was God’s will. But so far it has not happened…yet! They have been blessed with 4 legged furry kids, horses, dairy goats, dogs and cats,…but are still waiting for a 2 legged non furry kid or kids. 
After thinking maybe it was not in God’s plan for them to be parents, a phone call from one of Keri’s brothers in Nov. 2011 changed all that. Her brother told her that the baby he and his wife were expecting in the Spring might have Down Syndrome. Long story short…they would not be able to keep the baby…was this how God planned for them to finally become parents?! Keri told her brother they would adopt the baby in a heartbeat. Keri works in health care and Brian and Keri help care for a family friends child with special needs. This beautiful child with CP has been a blessing to them and really helped take away many of their fears and softened their hearts to a special needs child. Then began the research on Down Sydrome. Through research Keri came upon Reece’s Rainbows website, wow look at all these beautiful sweet children that need homes…how would you ever choose? Brian and Keri were still thinking that maybe they would be adopting her brothers baby. After much prayer time another phone call came, God’s answer was no. Keri’s brother and sister-in-law would be keeping the baby whatever the health of the baby, praise God! But ouch…will they ever be parents?!
Keri then returned to a list of Reece’s Rainbow kids, one child over and over again kept standing out among the others. After a lot of time in prayer, digging into God’s word and with many family, friends and their church praying for them. The answer and peace of what God was calling them to do became clear… sweet Meredith was to be their daughter! Wow, Praise the Lord! Even though there are still many answers unknown and concerns about finances. They continue to trust their Heavenly Father through this unknown journey and have faith that His will and timing is always perfect. As He has shown them many times through their 14+ years of marriage.
God is Good! Praying for Meredith’s health and safety!
Your Mommy & Daddy can’t wait for the day they can bring you home to your forever family…
3/21/13—OFFICAL MATCH RECVD!
Kyle and Kara met in 2004 and quickly fell in love. They were blessed with 4 beautiful daughters soon after that and live a blissfully busy life.
When Kara discovered Reece’s Rainbow, it was like a dream come true. She has always been called to orphans and especially the work of Mother Teresa, but didn’t know how to help. So, having a tangible way to advocate for these children was amazing. Kara spent months advocating for a sweet little redhead, Nico, and the family committed to bringing him home in September of last year.
Unfortunately, political tensions in his country and legislation unfriendly to international adoption closed that door, and after months in limbo, they felt called to continue their journey for another little boy who needs a home and family. They pray that they will able to bring Nico home someday, but until God makes that possible, they will work toward giving sweet Colton the stable home and loving family that every child deserves. God willing, someday Nico and Colton will be brothers.
The McIntees are thankful for this opportunity and hope you will pray for them and the boys as they continue their journey to Colton.
4/19/13—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://catholic-kara.blogspot.com/
$14,705.92 is available towards the cost of my adoption!
FULLY FUNDED!!!
Although Kim and Eric met in Middle School, they married “later” in life (ok, so meeting in Middle School is a stretch as they were both teachers there). Once they were married they left their home state of New York to move to Maryland. They continued to teach with the hopes of filling their home with lots of little feet. As the years passed they came to realize that birth children were not in God’s plan for them. Rather than search for answers in biological terms, they chose to begin their search in the many faces of orphaned children. In August of 2011, they found their first son Anthony. Anthony was one of 800 children in his orphanage in the province of Gansu. His cleft lip and palate was likely the reason he was abandoned and his age was likely the reason he was still available (2 1/2 at the time of referral). While he was considered “special focus” all Kim and Eric knew was that he was SPECIAL. Anthony came home a year later (September 2012) and is just so full of life and personality! They knew that he was that special gift from God. He has adjusted so well and they thought they couldn’t be happier. That was until their heart’s ached when they saw a photo listing with yet another beautiful orphan. They knew that this precious one was destined to be Anthony’s little brother. This little 18 month old has psychomotor development delays, was abandoned at one month old and most likely will remain in an orphanage for his lifetime due to the unknowns of his condition. He is in need of a family like Kim and Eric’s to share the same love they have already begun to provide their first son. The cost of adopting is in the tens of thousands of dollars and with both of these adoptions so close in time, Kim and Eric are forced to reach out to people and corporations like you for assistance. Although they are both schoolteachers they are operating as a one-income family so Momma can stay at home with Anthony and provide him with the support he needs. This is extremely important in these adoptions and will need to continue when their second son comes home. They are kindly asking for any gifts you can offer and appreciate anything to help bring this little boy home to the family that already loves him. They estimate that they will meet their new son and bring him home from China in September of 2013. Thank you for your attention and may your 2013 be filled with as much excitement and love as the Pellegrinos!
5/30/13—LOA RECEIVED; Traveling Sept/Oct
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at faithhopeloveadoption.blogspot.com
Kent and Kirsten met for the first time in Junior High,who would have thought years later they would marry! When they finally clued in on life they tied the knot. They have been married for 10 years and have two boys. Their oldest is 8 and their soon to be middle child is almost 5. While they never knew were life would actually take them they are extremely happy that by chance they ran across a story of a Utah family who had worked with Reeces Rainbow and had recently brought home their little girl. It was so inspiring and of course how can you go to the Reeces Rainbow website and not fall in love with all of these beautiful children. So the search began, much to Kirsten’s surprise! When Kent got the adoption fever their was no looking back. They started researching websites, countries and the process. It all kept leading them back to China. They at one point pulled out the globe and had the boys close their eyes and point just to see were their little fingers may land! Yup, closest to China. There was a turning point after watching a video on adoption and being very torn as to were their hearts were leading them that Kent announced ” China! We are supposed to adopt from China!”. Many have asked the family if they are nervous to adopt a child with Special Needs. That decision was pretty simple, Kirsten has worked for a non-profit that provides assistance to individuals with special needs for over 12 years. That also means that as a family that has been over 12 years of coming to different activities. So to be honest that was not Kent and Kirsten’s fear, it was the cost that seemed scary. They decided to jump in ( more like ungracefully dive in) and that’s were the story really begins for this family. They have been matched to a little girl, Corina, that is waiting for them in China. Soon, baby girl, soon we will be heading your way!
5/1/2013–WAITING FOR LOA –TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at murdochsaregrowingby2feet.blogspot.com
Brandon and Misty have been married for over 7 years. They currently do not have any children; however, they are overjoyed that they will be able to start their new family through adoption. Growing up, Misty always had a passion for adoption. As Misty and Brandon began talking about their future family, Brandon thought that he wanted to have biological children first, and then they would look at adoption somewhere down the road. However, as he became more aware of his wife’s heart for adoption, and ultimately God’s heart for the orphan, his own heart began to change. After volunteering at different orphanages and organizations that care for orphans, Misty and Brandon became even more aware of the need for loving homes for orphans. Seeing the need first hand made them want to become a part of the solution, and to bring not only hope, but a loving home to an orphan.
When they started their adoption journey they were adopting domestically. However, shortly after, a mutual friend of theirs informed them of a beautiful little girl with cerebral palsy in a Chinese orphanage. God had placed it on his heart to find a home for this child. After finding out more information, and with much prayer, Brandon and Misty joyfully decided to move forward in the adoption of this precious child. They are incredibly grateful that they will be the parents of such an amazing little girl. Their child, even though thousands of miles away, holds such a huge place in their heart.
As the fees for international adoption are much higher than domestic, they would greatly appreciate any help you could give them to bring their child home. They are truly thankful for your prayers and your donations.
The Hudsons just received notification that their adoption has been moved up. They will be receiving travel arrangements soon. As their adoption time frame has been moved up, they are in need of the remainder of their adoption fees in order to bring Hope home. The Hudsons would be very grateful if you would prayerfully consider making a donation to help them bring Hope to her forever home.
5/29/13—AWAITING TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.beautifulpossibility.blogspot.com
Barb and Larry were married after meeting on a blind date in 2000. Each brought a child from a previous marriage into the family (Taylor now 18 and Travis 16), and additionally had two girls together (Madison 10 and Macy 7). They thought they were done. The birth announcement for the last daughter even proclaimed “Our family is complete”, but God had other plans.
Barb has a degree in early childhood special education and Larry is a project manager. Both are from large families. They had talked about adopting in the past but once Barb saw how many children with special needs there were needing families, it was over. They decided that they would adopt a child with Down syndrome and a year later were bringing Mia (now 4) home from Hong Kong! She has changed their lives for the better and everyone that meets hers as well!
The visit to the orphanage in Hong Kong, however, tugged at their hearts, and they knew they would be back. As quickly as they could manage, this family adopted a second child from Hong Kong, this time a little boy (Max 3), also with Down syndrome, and in remission from Leukemia. Mia and Max are 8 months apart in age and two children bonded to each other, and the other children in the family, immediately.
The Evans’ have lovingly watched Reece’s Rainbow for several years now though they had no plans to adopt again for now but then they saw Hylah’s story. The tragedy that she has already endured, the similarity of characteristics between Down and Williams Syndrome, and the resources they have in place for Max and Mia made them realize that Hylah would fit perfectly into their family.
Completing three adoptions so close together isn’t easy so they would appreciate all the support they could get to complete Hylah’s adoption and bring her home as soon as possible!
5/1/13—WAITING FOR LOA (letter of approval)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at ourhandpickedangels.blogspot.com
Paul and Kelly got married in 1997. At the time Paul was and engineer and Kelly was a special education teacher. Their first child came in 1998 and it has been a world wind ever since. With a total of five children they knew that they were done birthing children, but not done growing their family. So when they heard that there was a homeless teen that needed a family…..we said….we can always fit one more. A year later we began fostering infants and toddlers. Our journey into the world of special needs began in 2000 with the birth of our daughter Grace. She was diagnosed with Noonan syndrome at one year of age. So they are already connected in the special needs community. We knew that if we were going to adopt, that we would adopt a child with special needs. We saw sweet Rita’s profile and knew that she would be a perfect fit for our family.
5/8/13—DOSSIER COMPLETE, USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adopti/on journey on their blog at http://themayrmadness.blogspot.com/
Lara is a homemaker and David is a System Administrator for the local electric company. David and Lara both had a heart for adoption before they met, and knew they would pursue it at some point in their lives. But, it was always put on the back burner because they ached to have a baby of their own first. Just as the Lord used other believers and a series of circumstances to guide them together, He has used these same tools to bring them to this new step. After a painful struggle through infertility they finally came to the agreement that they would find out more information about adoption. They began to fill out an application with the intent of adopting a healthy infant. Meanwhile, Lara began to get involved with Reece’s Rainbow as a prayer warrior, about 6 months ago. At an early age she was inspired by church friends that fostered and adopted, abused and neglected, disabled children. And she loved working with children who had a variety of needs in the school district, and at a private school for children with autism. David had less experience with this and didn’t think it was the Lord’s will for them, so Lara just tried to submit and leave it in the Lord’s hands. All the while, Lara continued to pray and advocate to open the eyes of anyone who’d listen, about the blessing and joy of adopting a child with special needs. And she knew that with David’s loving heart, if God moved, he would be a wonderful father to a special needs child. One night they were sitting on the couch watching TV, while Lara scrolled through the newly listed children on Reece’s Rainbow on her laptop, praying that the Lord would bring them to their families. David caught a glimpse of Gwenivere’s radiant smile out of the corner of his eye. But, he didn’t say anything to Lara and later after she went to bed, he got on his desktop computer and looked to find that little girl with the glowing face. After reading her profile, he felt so much love and compassion for her and Geoffrey, and felt the Lord calling them to act. After praying together, the next day, they excitedly decided to pursue the adoption of Gwenivere and Geoffrey.
6/5/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://www.cradledbygrace.blogspot.com/
Mike and Rebecca have five children ranging in age of 4 years old to 17 years old. Their youngest two children were brought into the family through China’s Waiting Child Program. It was during these adoption journeys that their eyes were opened to the orphan crisis worldwide.
As an adoptee, adoption has always been a major part of Rebecca’s life. The entire family has fallen in love with the call of adoption on their lives and are thrilled that God had led them to China once again, this time for a precious little girl who was born with down syndrome.
Mike and Rebecca are heavily involved with Special Needs Ministry and actually were one of three couples who founded a year-round camp for children with disabilities. It is through this experience, that Mike and Rebecca have met numerous friends who are such an inspiration and also serve as a tremendous source of support.
Please consider supporting the Phelps family as they embark on this journey to a precious little girl who is waiting for them in China.
5/2/13—DOSSIER IN COUNTRY
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://www.livinginarainbowworld.blogspot.com/
In 2006 Andrea had the privilege of holding an orphan in her arms for the very first time. Thus began an ever-increasing love and passion for orphans and a desire to show love to the forgotten and unwanted children of the world. Through volunteering in a baby orphanage in Uganda, Andrea had the opportunity to meet families who were in the process of adopting and to follow their journeys through the wonderful world of adoption blogs. It was through one of these blogs that Andrea first stumbled upon Reece’s Rainbow. Her eyes were opened and her heart was broken as she scrolled through the countless, breathtaking faces of children who had been cast aside because of their special needs. She began to pray for the opportunity to go and show God’s love to these children. In 2010 God made a way and Andrea found herself in Ukraine falling in love with and having her life transformed by ‘the least of these’. As Andrea prayed about what God would have her do next, His answer was clear: “Go home and prepare to adopt. I am going to give you children of your own.” Since then Andrea has had the privilege of watching God work miracles on behalf of the precious Ukrainian orphans whom she affectionately refers to as “her angels”, many of whom have now found families of their own. And now, Andrea is so excited to announce that it is finally her / her son’s turn!
Samuel is a precious little boy with developmental delays who has had a rough start and has been passed over many times due to his special needs. Looking back over the past five years, Andrea can see the many ways that God has been preparing her for this child and she is already so very in love – to her, he is perfect! Andrea can’t wait to bring him home from Vietnam and watch how God is going use him and his story to change the lives of many. Thank you for being a part of Samuel’s story!
5/1/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at ambassadoroflove.blogspot.com
Trey and Bridgette have been together for 12 years and married for 7. They are the proud parents of 2 boys. They have one biological son, Trenner, who is 5 years old. Solomon, who is 19 months old, was brought home from Uganda in early 2012. Trey and Bridgette never imagined they would be working on their second adoption in less than a year, but the Lord’s plans were bigger and better than their own. Throughout their years together, Trey and Bridgette can see the beautiful yarn the Lord has used to weave their story to Edna.
10 years ago Bridgette’s sister, Ali, was born with Down Syndrome. Looking back, Trey and Bridgette can see that the Lord was preparing their hearts for the moment they would fall in love with Edna. They loved her the moment they saw her. Already, they can imagine her sweet smile, her infectious giggle. Trey and Bridgette can picture her as a part of their daily lives. They knew from the start that Edna would fit perfectly into the gap the Lord placed into the Boswell family. Trey and Bridgette knew from that moment she was worth fighting for. So, They will fight for her. They will climb mountain after mountain. They will watch in awe as the Lord turns the impossible into possible. They will happily go to the ends of the earth for her. The Lord set Edna into the Boswell family long ago, now it is their privilege to bring her home.
5/23/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at bridgettevictoria.blogspot.com
Jay and April fell in love and married 22 years ago. April has been a homeschooling mother to their 7 children, from ages 5-21. Jay recently retired from the active duty Air Force and now works a civilian job, as a Security Specialist. Learning to be good parents and making their marriage first in their lives, has always been their primary focus and desire. They believe it is only feasible for them to succeed because they have surrendered their lives to the Lord Jesus 19 years ago.
They have always had a heart toward adoptive families and orphans, but weren’t sure how the Lord would open that door up to their family. In 2011, He told them to move through the door of adoption and let Him bless them. What an amazing blessing it has been. Nine months later they brought home a precious 1 1/2 year old son from China, who had a cleft lip and palate. He has been doing exceptionally well and loves his big family. While they do hear that they “saved” him from the life of being an orphan, they more feel that he has been a blessing to them beyond words. He is a wonderful, joyful gift to all of the family and they all feel like has always been a part of their hearts.
They knew, even before their son’s adoption that they would want to adopt again and bring him another sibling from his own country to grow up with. Just a couple months ago God put it on their hearts to not only adopt one more child from China, but two! Because of the burden they had in their hearts for orphans, the huge need for Forever Families for so many children, God’s provision and healing for their first adopted son, and the door he had opened again, they without a doubt would not say “No”. Within a couple of months of starting the mounds of adoption paperwork, applications and trying to come up with all funding to start the process they were matched with 2 precious two-year olds from China’s Waiting Child program.
The first child, is Elliana. She is just 4 months younger than their first adopted son. She is a tiny, 15 lb, adorable little one girl, living in an orphanage. She has not been able to walk yet, due to a leg deformity, that the surgeons in the US believe will require surgery.
The second child, is Isiaah. He is just 2 months younger than Elliana. He is also tiny, at 18 lbs, and also living in an orphanage. He has a serious, yet treatable heart condition called Tetralogy of Fallot. His medical treatment from China is a little vague. But the surgeons in the US believe with proper medical care and a loving home he will grow up to live an active, healthy life.
The older brothers and sisters are so excited to be on this journey toward adoption again. Everyone prays every day for them and the process to move quickly and the provision to be there when needed. Mama and Daddy can’t wait to hold and love on the little ones. They are hoping to travel early summer 2013.
They are thankful for everyone who prays for them and supports in all ways.
5/7/13—WAITING TO TRAVEL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://i-keep-surrendering.blogspot.com/
Paul & Maureen Huizinga have been married for over 12 years and have 6 children. Paul works developing curricula for social workers and Maureen works as a nurse practitioner for a surgical unit. They home school their children, are active in their church, enjoy gardening, and keeping up with some four footed companions.
Their hearts have always been tender towards children and adoption, but they were unaware of the magnitude of need for those orphans with special needs until dear friends adopted from Bulgaria. While following their story, the Lord began to work on each of their hearts. They helped support other adopting families and kept an ongoing prayer log of waiting children in their kitchen, and there was great rejoicing as these children found their forever homes. One curly haired little girl, who didn’t look so dissimilar to some curly haired Huizinga kids, never was chosen. They couldn’t imagine why not, and they continued to pray for her. The Lord then whispered , as is His way, that she wasn’t chosen, because she was to come home to them! With fear, trembling, and a stack of paperwork 16 miles high, the family has embarked on an adventure to rescue Princess Penny and BRING HER HOME.
4/15/13–USCIS APPROVED; DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.zingermama.blogspot.com
Charlie and Jeanie have been married over twelve years. After meeting at church when they were just children, Charlie and Jeanie were reunited later in life. They fell in love and were married at the church where they had met. They, along with their three boys, have a wonderful story to share.
Did you know that elephants can carry their babies for an incredible 21.5 months? Can you imagine having to wait that long to meet your precious little one? The Lewis family understands the pain of the wait. They have waited to complete their adoption for 10 years. After committing to a child in 2003, they completed almost the entire adoption process—minus travel—of a beautiful visually-impaired young girl.
Two years into the process, they were joyfully awaiting a travel date to adopt their daughter when they received a phone call no parent ever wishes to receive. Though they had steadfastly exhausted themselves to raise funds, enjoyed the process of preparing a bedroom, celebrated with an “adoption shower,” and were fully approved…..their daughter would not be coming home. Her country had politically closed its doors to adoptions from U.S. citizens. Stunned, they were left to heal and wonder what would ever come of the precious one they had come to love.
After a second trimester miscarriage, they decided a few years later to try to adopt a child through the Department of Human Resources. With full approval of DHR (having taken 10 weeks of classes and received an approved home study), they patiently waited to have a child placed in their home. Encouraged to be patient, the Lewis family worked with DHR for over a year and did not receive one placement.
Now the Lewis’s have come full circle. They have taken time to pray and seek God for what His perfect will would be for their family. And, believe it or not, they have received the referral of a perfect little girl who just so happens to be visually-impaired. In fact, this child has the exact same eye condition that their previous “daughter” had. And though she will need surgery and will remain partially blind, she will be able to “see” and feel and know the love that her family has for her every day of her life.
Overjoyed, the Lewis’s await bringing their daughter home after a 10-year “gestation” of the heart.
5/1/13—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at crazyadoptiondreamer.wordpress.com
Chris and Andrea Cole have been joyfully married for 10 years, and they are blessed with two wonderful little sons (4 & 6 years old). Their younger son, JJ, has Down Syndrome, and it was through JJ, and compassion for children with special needs of all types, that the Coles got interested in special needs adoption.
Chris is a software engineer and Andrea is a part-time project manager. They live near Boston, MA, and would be welcoming Sophia into a large, wonderful family who will adore her.
The Coles are a happy, active family who love walking their two dopey rescue dogs on the beach, hiking in the woods, and spending time at museums to learn about the world around them. They are a close-knit, loving family, who can’t wait to welcome dear “Molly” (Sophia) into their home. Their two sons are friendly and kind little boys, who love giggling, and causing mischief. Their boys are VERY excited about having Sophia as their little sister and friend for life. They can’t wait, and are just praying that the road to Sophia goes smoothly.
The Coles are involved in the Down Syndrome community in their state, regularily walk the “Buddy Walk,” and walk for Children’s Hospital Boston’s Down Syndrome clinic. The hope to give Sophia the best home possible, and access to the best medical care at Children’s Hospital in Boston.
They hope that not only will they give an excellent, happy and loving home to their dear daughter, but that others who read this will see how beautiful the children on Reese’s Rainbow are, and find out ways that they too can help the orphan crisis.
The family greatly appreciates a donation, in any amount, and wish everyone joy, health and happiness this holiday season.
12/15/12—TRAVELING SOON
Caleb and Mehgan Drake met at a bowling alley a decade ago. He was so smitten, that he proposed to her that night with a plastic vending machine ring–they have been together ever since. During the past nine years of marriage, they have had three precious children. Andi is 7, Lilly is 4, and Sawyer is 3. Caleb works as an account manager for a popular soda company, Mehgan is a crafting-cooking-stay at home mom, and Andi is an incredibly smart first grader. Lilly and Sawyer stay home with Mehgan and bring joy to their home.
They are a Christian family, who is earnestly seeking out God’s will for their family. They came to the realization that they were taking care of themselves, but not really anybody else. So they began to pray that God would direct them in the way they could best serve Him, show His love to others, and help others. They found Reece’s Rainbow and the needs that the children had was so heartbreaking, that it stayed with them for days. It was heart-wrenching looking at all of the sweet pictures and profiles of the kids that had been abandoned to a life of neglect simply because they weren’t “normal”. Long story short, they have fallen in love with a little boy with Down syndrome, named Heath, and are actively pursuing his adoption so they can bring him home. They had always considered adoption as a possibility for themselves, and now God is opening doors and making it happen. They believe that they are following God’s will in taking this huge leap of faith, and they would love for you to follow their journey, and join them in prayer as they move forward.
6/17/13—USCIS APPROVED, DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at mylittlebabyducks.wordpress.com
FULLY FUNDED!!!
Life is a journey with many paths and roads in which to travel. Most of the time, one cruises through life on the main road (with a few small side roads along the way.) Occasionally without warning, the road can dramatically change course and lives are altered for good. This is just what happened to Steve and Kim Meacham. They were content with their 23 year marriage and 9 biological children. Life was good and they weren’t particularly looking for a new road to travel. Then one day, Kim was looking at the children listed on Reece’s Rainbow and praying for them, as she frequently did, when she came across a picture of Washington and instantly knew he was theirs. She knew her family would soon be forever changed and that they were about to take a new road, an uncharted road, but one filled with promise and peace. She decided to show each of her children his picture and bio as soon as they came home from school and see what their reaction would be. Each child, upon seeing Washington’s picture, said how they felt he was supposed to be a member of their family. Their 10-year-old had the most profound reaction- as soon as she saw his picture, she exclaimed excitedly (while jumping up and down) “That’s my brother! That’s my brother!” What amazing reactions! Steve was on a business trip at the time and was unaware of all the excitement. When he returned home, he was told the amazing story and agreed to pray on it and ask what God wanted their family to do. After praying, they all got a resounding YES! answer that indeed Washington was to be a member of their family. The Meachams are so excited to travel on uncharted territory and include Washington in their journey through life. Please help them bring him home and give him a family of his own, one who will love and care for him forever. They truly feel like he is meant to be theirs!
5/1/13—TRAVELING THIS SUMMER
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at ourtengreatestblessings.blogspot.com
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