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Robert and Lura are both military brats who met when both of their parents were stationed at Travis AFB in California. Robert (aka Bobby) was born in Arkansas, spent time in Nebraska, Arizona, Japan, and California growing up. Lura was born in California and has lived all over the United States. Bobby and Lura met while working at Pizza Hut. They became close when Bobby decided that he liked running as much as Lura did, and they would run miles upon miles nightly after work. While they would run, they would talk and they grew closer and closer together.
One day Bobby decided to go with Lura to San Francisco, and they shared their first kiss on Pier 39 after they spent the entire day together. After a whirlwind romance, they stood in front of their family and friends and proclaimed their love for each other on Lura's birthday (July, 7 2007) in Chandler, Arizona. Robert had recently joined the Air Force, and Lura has been following him all over the world since.
They adopted a rottweiler/shepard mix named Lucy, and a calico cat named Desi from an animal shelter while stationed at Tinker AFB in Oklahoma. They currently do not have any children, but are looking at expand their family through international adoption. They have their heart set on a sibling set from Eastern Europe, and hope to bring them home as quickly as possible!
2/10/12—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the Jepson family's adoption journey on their blog at bobbyandlura.blogspot.com/
Jacob and Katie have been married 9 years, and have three adorable biological boys. Katie was always interested in adopting as well, but Jacob wasn’t interested, so she figured it wasn’t to be. She’d run across Reece’s Rainbow a few times over the past few years, but had only visited it briefly until earlier this year. Some acquaintances from college were adopting, and after she visited their blog, she went to Reece’s Rainbow, and this time she was hooked. She visited every day, and when she found Brigitte on there, Katie felt that she was supposed to be part of their family. Unfortunately, Jacob wasn’t so sure, and the timing was all wrong, since they were about to move hundreds of miles, transition to a new job, and would need to both sell their old house and find a new place to live.
Shortly after that another family committed to adopting Brigitte. Katie was devastated for herself but very excited for Brigitte and her soon-to-be family. Brigitte having a family didn’t alleviate Katie’s feelings that they were supposed to adopt, and she continued to peruse the RR site every day. There were a few other little ones who Katie thought about bringing home to their family, but Jacob still didn’t want to adopt. When one set of little ones she was considering were committed to by another family, Katie was very confused and went to the Lord in prayer, asking that if they were really supposed to adopt, would he please give her some guidance. Within 24 hours of that prayer, the family who had committed to adopt Brigitte announced that they were going to have to back out of the adoption process. Katie knew it was a sign from God that they were supposed to be Brigitte’s family.
Katie shared her feelings and inspiration with Jacob, and he agreed to think and pray about it. Finally about a month later he agreed that they should go forward with the adoption. They know there will be other snags ahead, but look forward to bringing home their little girl as quickly as possible.
2/8/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Evans family's adoption journey on their blog http://changinglives-oneatatime.blogspot.com
Chris and Ashley were married in May 2003, and are now the parents to two hilarious, silly, sweet girls. Elena is 4 and Maeve is 2. Always knowing that they would have two biological kids and adopt any others, they always planned on adopting domestically through the foster system. God had other plans! Never say you “won't” do anything…it is almost always a sure sign that is what God will ask of you! Elena and Maeve are beyond excited to be big sisters to Calista, who will be named Thea. After being introduced to Reece's Rainbow through blogs, Ashley found herself getting to know the kiddos on the site and rejoicing when they found families. It took a little while for God to seal it on their hearts that this was His plan for them also, but it is certain and they are so excited!
Chris works for a company that does case management for people with mental retardation, and Ashley was a school teacher before staying home when the girls were born, so they are happy to know about some resources that will be available to Thea. The girls can't wait to introduce her to the cat, dog, and four chickens, and are already trying to vie for rights to feed her! Everyone is so excited to bring her home!
2/8/12—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the Tappan family's adoption journey on their blog http://tappangirls.blogspot.com
Meet Shalee and Dustin Booker. They live in Farmington Utah with their two beautiful daughters, Kaiya (7) and Ryan (20 months). Kaiya has Down Syndrome. They would tell you that If you have never heard the Down Syndrome saying "Angels are made of 47 pieces" that you could take their word for it when they tell you it is a very true statement. She is an Angel. A very beautiful, loving and stubborn Angel
They are involved with the Utah Down Syndrome Foundation and participate in the Buddy Walk every year. The Buddy Walk is a one mile walk and a day full of festivities to raise awareness for DS and funds for the foundation. This year, September 10th to be exact, their lives changed in a very significant way. They discovered they were missing a member of their family.
At the Buddy Walk Shalee noticed an Easy Up tent covered in balloons and full of tables that were covered in photographs. After this tent caught her eye for the hundredth time, she wondered over with her daughters to see what was so exciting. This is where she was introduced to Reece’s Rainbow. She was learning about how in other countries, when a child is born with special needs, most are placed in over populated orphanages. They are not always properly cared for and very rarely have anything (toys, clothes, etc.) that belong to them. Their heads are shaved and they are sometimes left in bed, often by force, when an orphanage is understaffed. These few things are the most minor problems these children face in this situation. When they reach a certain age, typically 5-7, they are removed from the orphanages and placed in adult metal institutions where 90% die within the first year of their transfer. After hearing all of this and looking over the dozens and dozens of photographs of "available" children, she and Dustin decided right then and there that they wanted to help. They excepted the fact that they can't save them all… But that they can and will save one.
They are prepared for this long and emotional journey, and know it will all be worth it to see Vika take her first step on American soil as a Booker.
2/10/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE, COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow the Booker family's adoption journey on their blog
Andy and Bethany are excited and grateful to begin this journey of welcoming Timothy as a part of their family. The Nagels have been married for 8 years and have been richly blessed by their two biological sons, Zachary (4) and Caleb (2). Andy serves as a pastor and Bethany is completing her training as a counselor. For years they have sensed that God would call them to adopt—specifically sensing that God had in mind a child with Down Syndrome for them. However, they had no idea how this would come about. Coincidentally (or not!), they moved to Germantown, Maryland where they became aware of the important work of Reece’s Rainbow, and were privileged to begin supporting and praying for friends who were adopting through this ministry. In God’s perfect and unpredictable timing, they were led and encouraged to consider stepping out in faith themselves. Already, they feel that their lives have been changed by adoption—not only do they more clearly understand the heartbreaking need of orphans, but they also more fully understand the great love of God which has welcomed them—once spiritual orphans and outcasts– into the family of God through the grace of God’s adoption of them in Jesus Christ. They ask for your prayers and invite you to follow their story.
2/8/12—DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the Nagel family's adoption journey on their blog www.adoptingmatters.blogspot.com
John and Christine have been married for 18 years and have 15 children– evidence that they love kids and have a heart for the plight of orphans! When they eloped just months after meeting each other they had no clue that they would one day be parenting such a large brood — and loving it! After six biological children followed by a hysterectomy, Christine never felt that they were done growing their family. After watching the Asian Tsunamis hit the day after Christmas in 2004, John and Christine discussed adoption and began a new chapter in their lives. They were unexpectedly blessed with a special needs child– and that planted the seed for future children with special needs. Two more daughters joined their family before John and Christine adopted Dennis in 2008 and Alex in 2009– both cuties listed on RR. Between 2009 and 2012, John and Christine adopted three more children. Only by the grace of God, and His abundant and unfailing love are John and Christine able to raise their large family. God has shown them how beautifully and wonderfully made each and every one of their children are. He has never failed them yet! Fast forward to now– two little boys have caught their eye. With Doyle and Fischer on their hearts, the Reed family is answering the call once again.
2/8/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://becausehefirstadoptedus.blogspot.com/
Chris and Jenn met in 2007 and were married in 2008. Chris works at the local Army base repairing Blackhawk Helicopters and Jenn is a stay at home mom to her three daughters. They have always known they both wanted a big family. They had thought about adoption and became foster parents. They had never thought of adopting internationally. That is until Jenn started following the adoption journey of a family they knew who adopted two children through RR. Jenn felt the tugging at her heart that they too needed to adopt. When she mentioned it to Chris, he wasn’t so sure. After meeting those two children Chris too felt the tugging of God to adopt and from RR. After discussing adopting with their children it was decided they would adopt. Jenn took off with it, checking RR daily looking and praying for these children and which one did God have for them. Chris would look at the pictures with her but never really found the one, he said God would show him who his son or daughter was. One night while looking through the ages 3-5 category they came open Olga and both knew this was their daughter. They “introduced” her picture and information to their daughters and all were very excited. While waiting for the funds to come in to commit and do home study they prayed for Olga and prayed that if she was the next daughter God had for them he would open the doors. They have been amazed at what God has done to provide them with the blessing of being able to be her forever family. Olga will have three big sisters to look up to Britney (9), Jessica (11) and Rebecca (13). They are all looking forward to their little sister coming home so they can teach her all things “girly”. Chris and Jenn pray that through their adoption others will see that if you follow Gods calling of adopting He will provide in wonderful ways.
2/7/12—DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the Abell family's adoption journey on their blog at www.savingourstarfish.blogspot.com
In 1998, Sharon and Bill Edwards gave birth to a little girl with Down syndrome. Her name was Sarah, and while she would not understand it, her precious innocence and beautiful personality melted away the anxiety and fear that her mom and dad had anticipated throughout the pregnancy. The desire to adopt had been with her parents for many years, but because of Sarah, another purpose became clear. So many beautiful children like Sarah, for reasons beyond their control, might never know the joy of parents and family that she knew. Not only was Sarah about to impact her parents decision to adopt, she was the inspiration that helped them consider adopting children with Down syndrome. In 2001, Sharon and Bill adopted a girl of 16 months with Down syndrome from Ukraine. Her name is Caroline, and she and Sarah are inseparable. Then in 2003, they adopted Claire, a three month old girl with Down syndrome. In 2004, they adopted a 4 year old girl with special needs from Russia. They then adopted 4 other children domestically. When their last adoption was finalized in 2007, they thought they had finished, but in January of 2011, the desire to adopt again began to grow in Sharon, but with 10 children at home, 3 biological and 7 adopted, she wasn’t sure Bill would feel the same. Sharon stumbled upon Reece’s Rainbow, and seeing all of the beautiful children, started praying about adopting again. Finally, during the summer, she spoke with Bill about it and was surprised he was open to the idea. After much prayerful consideration, they decided to bring another child into their family. All of their children are supportive and excited about having a new sister. On Christmas Eve, they saw Allysen on Reece’s Rainbow, and knew she was the child for them.
2/6/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Edwards family's adoption juorney on their blog at http://dearlittlegirlofmine.blogspot.com/
The Godone-Maresca Family is thrilled with its newest additions. As of Nov. 8, 2010, Lillian became a mom of 6, as the Bulgarian court granted Stephen's adoption. Catherine, 24, and13-year-old twins Gerard and Warren are biological. Thomas and Nicholas are both 9, but not twins, and were adopted internationaly from Haiti. Although having a master’s and almost a Ph.D., Catherine lives at home in order to help. She and the twins do for their younger brothers much more than any parent can imagine, expect, ask for, or even dream about, and are also avid volunteers for the poor and the unborn.
Even though being widowed, when talking about adoption Lillian always uses the plural due to how totally, absolutely, completely, unconditionally involved her mom and her children are in it. They’re devout Catholics, and pray together for the new homecoming. Unanimously, they had decided that any new further addition(s) to their family would be little ones facing physical challenges. All of them have big hearts—yet Lillian agrees that in her individual case, there is also a deep-rooted psychological reason that pushes her towards any child facing mobility problems. Lillian used to have the most perfect childhood anyone may have wished for, with a family that on one hand taught her all the etiquette rules, but on the other, and even more emphatically, taught her about social sensitivity, equality, and social justice. On one hand, she had a very privileged upbringing, but on the other had parents and grandparents who, far from being busy socialites, were totally, absolutely, entirely, unconditionally devoted to her. She was an excellent student, outspoken, and pretty. Yet, there was something that did cast a cloud on what otherwise would have been a magical, enchanted, fairytale childhood: she was not good at sports. Although not disabled, she did perceive her poor coordination as a true disability—and that made her feel very deeply for any child facing real physical challenges.
At this moment, the family’s financial situation is completely different from what it used to be. A failed international adoption in 2009 meant a huge financial loss. Yet, everyone, including the children, are determined to make any possible and impossible efforts for those little boys to get home.
The Hills have decided to bring home PIPER, too!!
Dan and Michelle Hills once again are following the Lords calling to adopt yet another child from Eastern Europe.
When Dan and Michelle married with 3 children (Chris, Samantha and Anthony) in 1997, they had no idea what God had in store for their family.
Michelle has always had a desire to have a large family. She has thought about adoption as a child and grew up with a desire to work with special needs children. She always admired large families with special needs kids but never imagined that she would one day be “that woman”. Dan, a devoted husband, was unsuspecting of any of this when they married but trusted and supported Michelle’s heart and beliefs throughout their marriage.
In 2006 they traveled to Ukraine to adopt then 9.5 year old Yana. Since this time they have been pursuing a friend of Yana’s who is caught up in the system and are still praying her home (she will be 16 in 2012). In 2008 the Lord led them to adopt a Reeces Rainbow “other angel” Nadia Hope, then 3.5; Nadia has Cerebral Palsy. In 2009 they were led back to Ukraine to adopt then nearly 15 year old Ivan and his biological 12 yr old sister, Olya. It was a wonderful, yet unexpected surprise in 2010 when they felt the Lord calling them back to Ukraine AGAIN, this time to adopt a child with Down syndrome. This is when found and adopted 5 year old Marni Ahna.
Thinking they were done adopting and focusing their passion for orphans through orphan ministry, that familiar tug on their hearts began to grow once again. They are absolutely thrilled beyond words to be heading back overseas to adopt another sweet little girl with Down syndrome, precious “Abbie”. They are confident this is the Lord’s calling for them and are trusting that He will provide and make the way.
2/1/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Hills family's adoption journey on their blog at http://www.findingrdaughter.blogspot.com
God began preparing Grace’s heart for this adoption when she was a little girl. Back then, however, when she dreamed about starting a family, her dreams included meeting Mr. Right, settling down, and together, building a family through adoption. God had different plans, and she knows now that His plans are the right ones. God has given Grace a heart content to wait on Him, and endless opportunities to serve Him in her season of singleness. He has given her the privilege of doing Kingdom work in Kenya and Haiti, in a ministry to homeless children here in the States, and in loving people in the inner-city neighborhood in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she lives. All this time, God has been working on Grace’s heart; teaching her to follow and obey. There has never been a time yet when Grace has taken a leap of faith and the Lord has not caught her. And so, she is a taking her biggest leap yet, trusting that God who has called her is faithful!
After following the stories of 2 little girls, severely malnourished and neglected in an orphanage in Bulgaria, God led Grace to a sweet, 6-year-old little girl in that same orphanage, with whom she has fallen completely in love. Grace cannot wait to get this little girl home, and to officially be her mom!
1/30/12—DOSSIER COMPLETE
“Danny” and “Dante” have the promise of a joyful life with their new mom, brother and sister. God blessed Yvonne with a biological son in December of 2006, shortly thereafter her marriage dissolved and Yvonne embraced single parenthood. Yvonne has always had adoption in her heart and felt from an early age that her family would be built by adoption. In early 2009, Yvonne was led to her daughter’s Special Needs adoption when she saw this impish 4 year old little girl born with dual limb difference. Today that 7.5 year old little girl is riding her bike without training wheels, riding her brother’s razor scooter and hiking thru the woods with her family, leading an absolutely normal and happy childhood. After a year of careful consideration, the support of both her children and becoming educated about the boy’s special needs, Yvonne decided to start an adoption journey to Eastern Europe to adopt both “Danny” and “Dante.” Yvonne is working quickly to complete their dossiers and to raising the funds to bring the boys home. Yvonne cannot wait for these little guys to be home in her arms, running around the yard and giggling with their brother and sister.
1/29/12—HOMESTUDY COMPLETE; COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://withloveourgivingtreegrows.blogspot.com/
Nancy and Bobby have been happily married for seven years. They live in Houston, Texas and work at a Speedy Printing in Houston. After 4 years of marriage they were blessed with their daughter, Allison. Allison is so excited to have a little sister!
Through Reece’s Rainbow they have fallen in love with Heaven from Bulgaria and cannot wait to have her home in Texas. Please keep the Barlow family in your prayers as they follow this new journey God has chosen for them.
1/26/12—DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the Barlow family's adoption journey on their blog at tinypieceofheaven.blogspot.com
Joe and Bianca have been married for four years and have a blended family with three beautiful daughters, Tristen (9), Aislinn (7), and Linden (3). Linden sports that extra-special 21st chromosome. Ever since Bianca was a young girl, she wanted to adopt. She knew that she would have both biological and adopted children. After much prayer and patience on Bianca’s part, Joe had a dream that he couldn’t stop thinking about and is now 110% on board with the plan to adopt. Bianca had a connection with Darren for months that could not be denied. She knew that he was the one! When Joe saw his picture, he agreed! They cannot wait to bring him home and very much appreciate your prayers and donations as they go on this journey of faith.
1/23/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Olivier family's adoption journey on their blog www.webelieveyoubelong.blogspot.com
John 14:18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” When Michael and Maria Falvo stood in the cold , stark, play room on that very cold day in October 2010 that is the verse that came to mind while saying goodbye to all the beautiful, lonely little ones who they knew the world had forgotten. They promised one special little boy Sasha (Phillip) that they would do EVERYTHING they could to send a family for him. Sasha had wiggled a special place in Michael and Maria’s hearts. He was referred to by the caregivers in the group as “Renat’s Best friend.” The boys had shared a crib then toddler beds since they were 3 months old. The boys were now 5. Renat was the little boy with Down Syndrome the Falvo’s were adopting along with their newest daughter Taiya who also has Down syndrome. "He is a good boy!" They would say. "He is a good friend to children." Then why is he all alone here in an orphanage with all these other special children they would think? Why aren’t families coming for each of them? WHY?? Because people don’t know HOW bad these children have it. They don’t see the laying down room where Taiya lived in a crib for all her 4 ½ years. They are afraid to step out in faith. They don’t see the ground beets and watered down apple juice the kids have for each meal. They don’t see the look of pure LONGING, and heartbreaking SADNESS on the faces of those teeny children who have almost, almost, given up and ever being loved. They have never seen the smile break out on the face of an orphaned child simply because you bent down and kissed their tiny little hand. IT.WILL.CHANGE. YOU. You never want to forget. It hurts our hearts but it BREAKS JESUS’ HEART. We have to have faith. We have to believe we can change the world. ONE child at a time. Andrea Roberts believes. She gives the kids faces.
While the ‘best friends’ hugged tightly and said what they didn’t know was their final goodbyes, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. Walking out that door, leaving Sasha behind , and all those children who desperately wanted a mama and papa of their own, was VERY bittersweet. They were so excited for Taiya and Renat to start their new life, but so sad for the kids who would never know the life of a family.
A full year has passed and sweet Sasha has not been forgotten. They have advocated for him and prayed for him. The past year has been hard on the Falvo’s with many ups and downs and many changes have been made to focus more on their growing family. After many “hints” from God that Sasha was met to be in their family the Falvo’s are stepping out in faith and going back to bring this sweet child home!!! He should be with his best friend/brother, the only family he has ever known. Benji-Renat
Their family is one only God could put together. Michael and Maria started dating in 1987 and married 7 years later. They celebrated 24 together! Each year has brought happiness and joy and struggles. Many times things have been tough. Really tough. But faith and a determination to keep their family together has kept them strong. Michael is a grocery store manager and Maria is stay at home mom . The Falvo’s live on a 2 ½ farm with many pets. The kids run and play in the fresh air or hike to the nearby river. The family loves to be outside whether camping or just hanging out.
The Falvo’s have 6 children. 2 biological children, 4 adopted, 2 of which have Down syndrome. Michael jr. is 13 and a huge weight lifting fan. Giana is 11 and loves to craft or care for her pets. Isabella is 5 and was born in Guatemala, the word “Princess” describes her perfectly. Tatiana was born in Ethiopia and is 3, she is feisty and smart and oh so lovable , Benji-Renat is 6 ,and was born in Ukraine and has Down syndrome, he is handsome and VERY affectionate while keeping his family on their toes 
Taiya is also 5 and was infant like when she came home a year ago due to her living conditions 
she has improved in leaps and bounds! She went from 4 ½ yrs old and weighing 20#s in a size 12-18 month to 34 #s wearing a sz 3 ! She now walks and eats with a spoon and knows many signs to communicate. She is a easy going sweetie. Who all the kids spoil with hugs and kisses. They have thrived in their family
The Falvo’s appreciate your prayers for their adoption journey. If you feel led to donate or participate in any of their fundraising adventures they will be humbled and so grateful.They would love for you to follow along on their blog. Adoption can be expensive . But it is SO WORTH IT. Don’t let the cost or fears stop you from stepping out in faith. Look at all the beautiful forgotten children on Reeces Rainbow. Each child deserves a family. Each child deserves a life. YOU could give that to them. Thank you and God bless
1/23/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://loveyamorethancookies.blogspot.com/
Kevin and Kelly Grove have felt strongly since they were teenagers that they would adopt a child with Down Syndrome. God placed the love for people with Down Syndrome in their hearts from an early age. When they met and began dating, they shared their desire to adopt special needs children and were thrilled that they were on the same page! They have had many opportunities to volunteer and be involved in the Down Syndrome community. They have enjoyed donating to many families' adoption funds via Reeces Rainbow. Kelly also runs a domestic adoption ministry to find homes for newborns with significant special needs. Kevin and Kelly are blessed to be parents of several children with special needs, but for years they have longed for a little girl with Down Syndrome to join their family, yet it never felt quite right. That all changed when they saw Alice and Mara's photos on Reeces Rainbow. The bond was strong and instant. Kevin and Kelly knew that they had found not only one daughter but two that were meant for their family! The girls' region has given the Grove family special permission to bring the girls home together despite being unrelated. Kevin, Kelly and their children are beyond excited to welcome these sweet angels to their forever family. They need financial help to make this dream come true and little time to raise it. Alice is overdue to be transferred to an institution and so needs to come home ASAP.
1/22/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Danny and Christine have been married for 21 years and have 6 children with ‘5 underfoot’. Their firstborn, Dustin, went on to be with God when he was just a baby. Danny and Christine both grew up in the same town and attended the same schools, but they didn’t actually meet until high school. They began dating at 16 and the rest as they say is history. Their other children are Ashley (20), Kylene (16), Sydney (6), Nathan (3), and Braden (1), who has Down syndrome. Braden is the greatest blessing and has brought nothing but joy to the Sheffield family. Along with that extra chromosome comes a lot of extra love! They also have a grandson, Kaden (6 months) and a ‘hopefully-soon-to-be-son-in-law’, Evan (20). Christine first found out about Reece’s Rainbow in early 2010, when she learned of a local couple, Jennifer and Hector Sanchez, who were adopting Sofia, with Down syndrome, from an orphanage in Eastern Europe. Christine quickly became hooked on their adoption story and before long, checking in on adoption blogs and all of the little ones listed on Reece’s Rainbow became a daily ritual. She was saddened by the situation these vulnerable children were in and the unbearable conditions they were facing. She wondered if they, too, could possibly welcome one of these little children into their family. Christine and Danny knew they had the capacity to love, but they were just lacking the confidence to step out. Sadly, they were lacking the faith. Before long, all thoughts of international adoption took a backseat when they found out they were expecting another baby. They were overjoyed to be expecting again, and Christine reluctantly pushed the little faces of Reece’s Rainbow to the back of her mind, and focused on what turned out to be a very high-risk pregnancy. To their surprise and great pleasure, Braden arrived 8 months later with the blessing of a little something extra! Looking back now, over the entire chain of events, they truly see the hand of God at work in their life. They are now ready to welcome another child into their family through adoption! Christine and Danny knew that they would one day adopt an orphaned child from Reece’s Rainbow; the seed had already been planted. After Braden’s birth, their hearts became even more open to the plight of these waiting children. Precious children, just like Braden. However, they didn’t expect to be venturing out on this journey so soon! But when God says ‘Go’… you go. Christine visited the Reece’s Rainbow forum for the first time one day, just looking around, when she saw the post titled, “Please don’t forget about Vinnie!” She was compelled to click on the link, and as she did, she surprisingly heard herself say aloud, ‘I won’t!’ When she saw Vinnie’s photo and read his story, Christine just knew in her heart that Vinnie was her guy, and his place was at home with them. Christine and Danny are very grateful to the Davis family for advocating for Vinnie, and they are excited for the many blessings this journey of faith will bring. The Sheffields are looking forward to the day when Vinnie comes home, to his rightful place in his forever family.
1/18/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Sheffield family's adoption journey on their blog http://sheffieldadoption.blogspot.com/
Rebecca and Mark have four wonderful children between the ages of 13-21. They knew they wanted more children and that adoption would be the way they would find their baby. It wasn’t until they stumbled onto Reece’s Rainbow that they considered a little one with Down Syndrome. After a year of reading books and following blogs of families going through the process, they prayed about moving forward. The very next weekend at church a group of teens and adults with Down Syndrome came and sat down in front of them. God just doesn’t get much louder than that.
When they brought up the subject of adopting with their other children, the vote was unanimous. Mark and Rebecca were surprised when the kids ran around the house finding any loose change, even their own change, to start saving to bring home their little sister and brother.
The feeling Rebecca and Mark felt when they first saw Sydney and Lucien was just like when your child just born and they place them in your arms for the first time. They just knew these two beautiful little ones were meant to be part of their family.
They can hardly wait to bring their little blessings home and would appreciate your prayers and donations as they work towards bringing their little one home “Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat.” Mother Teresa
1/20/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Jenks family's adoption journey on their blog http://www.becauseyouareloved.blogspot.com/
2/1/12—COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow the Heirigs family's adoption journey on their blog at http://buildingtheheirigsfamily.blogspot.com
Marlo and Jeremy Williams' whole life together has been an amazing chain of unlikely and very blessed events. Marlo, a classical musician, grew up in Oklahoma, moved to Pittsburgh for college, and returned home to OK to be with her large extended family (think "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," only not Greek). Jeremy, a computer engineer, was born in California, raised in France (his parents were Baptist foreign missionaries), returnd to the States for college, moved to Texas to work, and finally found himself in Oklahoma. How would these two people meet? Why, in an Aikido class of course! These two non-athletes with seemingly nothing in common met doing a martial art, and as their love grew they found that they had everything that mattered in common: their faith, their sense of humor, passion for charity, love of children, enthusiasm for pets, sense of adventure in travel, and even their love of Star Trek. They met in January 2006 and were married in November that same year. Jeremy's parents just happened to be in the States on furlough from their pastoral jobs in France, so that was rather convenient (see? Unlikely and blessed events!). When Marlo became pregnant in 2009, the pair were elated. They watched with ever-increasing joy as their little "puffin" grew and grew. There were rare and severe complications with delivery, though, which nearly took Marlo's life and which left Sheppard fighting for his own precious life in the NICU for a full month. Those events were very unlikely… now the blessed part: the family met and befriended many wonderful doctors and nurses, and learned SO MUCH about pediatric medical complications during this time, and finally the little boy who was given a 50-50 chance of survival got to come home. Sheppard Williams will turn 2 years old on February 20, 2012 and plans to celebrate with a Bob the Builder themed party. Sheppard loves other children, especially little girls, toward whom he always gravitates on the playground and in play groups. He is an exceptionally gentle, expressive, cooperative, and affectionate toddler. Sheppard loves to read, play at Nana's house, blow bubbles in the park, play with the family's dogs, and of course watch Thomas the Tank Engine and Bob the Builder. Marlo and Jeremy wanted to give him a sister, but it would be far too dangerous to risk another pregnancy and delivery. A family friend sent them a Reece's Rainbow link one day, just out of the blue. They had never heard of Reece's Rainbow, but thought the idea behind it was beautiful and worth investigating. They wondered why their friend Liz had sent this to them at this time. And then… there she was! Sheppard's sister! They just KNEW it was her when they saw her for the first time. Marlo called to Sheppard to come look at little Tera's picture, and he immediately leaned over and kissed the computer screen. Jeremy and Marlo wept, and realized just how unlikely and blessed this occurrence was, too. With the help of the wonderful people at their adoption agency, Marlo, Jeremy, and little Sheppard are on the way toward bringing little Tera home. What are the odds that one would connect with someone who has grown up clear on the other side of the world? No one knows, but Marlo and Jeremy seem to have a knack for it. From France to Oklahoma, and Oklahoma to Siberia, distance doesn't matter when you're meant to be a family. Some might call it serendipity, but the Williams family calls it Providence and celebrates every unlikely blessing that comes their way.
2/17/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
UPDATE: The Van Nice family will also be bringing home Evelyn!
The Van Nice Family is excited to add Landon to our busy family!!!
Joe and Brigitte have been married for almost 11 years. They have 4 children – three bio’s and one Ukrainian prince adopted in June 2009. Joe works as a quality inspector and Brigitte works part time as a Judicial Clerk. They are no strangers to the adoption process as Brigitte works with families adopting from Eastern Europe to gather their paperwork and help guide them through the process.
They thought their family was complete, but God had other plans. Little did they know they would get the Call to adopt Landon from Bulgaria! It was after reading Carrington Burmans story, that Joe was hearing the call to adopt loud and clear. Brigitte quickly jumped on board. Landon will be a perfect fit in their family. All the kids are so excited to have another brother to play with and love on! Your prayers and support are greatly appreciated! God Bless !!!!
1/12/12—AWAITING I800A APPROVAL
Follow the Van Nice family's adoption journey on their blog at vannicefamilyjourney.blogspot.com
Vera and Joseph have been married for over 5 years and have one daughter. They have always dreamed of filling their home with the sounds of giggling, running, jumping, playing, silliness and happiness that only children can bring. Vera had thought of adopting internationally for a long time, before she even met her husband. In the summer of 2011, she presented the idea to him as a way of expanding their family when she found precious Owen on the Reese’s Rainbow website. He was reluctant at first of adopting a special needs child, but with encouragement from his wife, information, and guidance from God, he realized that this child was meant to be theirs! Now the Coopers are excitedly and faithfully embarking on this journey to bring their son home with the Heavenly Father leading the way. They very much love this child halfway across the globe and are dedicated to providing him with a life of love, health, happiness and God. They cannot express enough how much your donations, prayers and support mean to them. Dreams CAN come true, so never give up on them!
Steven and Leslie found true love over 5 years ago when they first met. They prayed that the Lord would bless them with a child and after 3 years of marriage, God has blessed them with one… an angel from Reece’s Rainbow! After considering other adoption options, they have confidence that this little orphan, who they feel called to rescue, is the one who is meant to be their only child and daughter. Both Steven and Leslie have a special place in their hearts for children with special needs and feel fortunate to be on this journey where they will bring “Trixie” to her new, loving home. Steven and Leslie both believe “…with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26). They know that along with God’s will for their family, prayers and financial support from family and friends, near and far, known and unknown, will help bring this sweet baby home. Steven, Leslie and “Trixie” are so thankful and appreciative of any amount of love, prayers and support that you can send their way!
1/12/11—HOME STUDY COMPLETE, COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow the Thibeault family's adoption journey on their blog http://tbofamilyjourney.blogspot.com/
Megan is single and has always wanted to be a mom. She has a mentally disabled sister (not DS) and has always had a special place in her heart for special needs children. This year she discovered RR from a friend's blog and after looking at all the beautiful children in need of a family she found Sophia C. who stole her heart. After praying for direction she knew now was the time to act. It was time to adopt! Sophia is two and Megan knows Sophia will just blossom in a family of her own.
Your financial support and prayers are truly appreciated. God bless you and your family!
1/11/12–DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the Meier family's adoption journey on their blog at www.myjourneyoftheheart.blogspot.com
The Coleman family are from Colorado. They have 5 children, two by birth and three through the gift of adoption. God called them to this journey in 2005 after they could not have any more children of their own. James was working for the Sheriffs office, and Jamie was a stay at home mom. They had wanted to do a domestic newborn adoption, but after starting the process they were told that because they had two birth children, it might be up to a four year wait before they would be matched. They were both heartbroken, and thought that maybe they wouldn’t have any more kids. Jamie had felt in her heart that God had promised them more children, so coming to this conclusion was a hard idea to accept, but together they prayed through the decision to not move forward with the agency, and focus on the children God had given them.
In the fall of 2007, James came home from work and asked Jamie if they could consider helping kids through their local foster care system, since they were not pursuing adoption right now. They prayed about it, and set up a meeting with their local Department of Human Services to get more information on becoming foster parents. During that meeting they knew God was calling them to serve. So, they signed up to become foster parents on that Wednesday afternoon, and on Friday they were called with a newborn, that they would pick up from the hospital . This child was part of God’s promise that He had give to Jamie two years earlier, and Jacob became their son in 2009. While walking in service, the desires of their hearts were granted! A beautiful baby boy!
After that adoption they continued doing foster care & adopted a little guy with cerebral palsy. Then privately adopted a little girl with a chromosome deletion. Their love for special needs children had taken root. They closed their home to foster care and started a privately supporting families with newly diagnosed special needs children.
In July of 2011, they decided to start fundraising for a little girl with the same brain malformation as their daughter (agenesis corpus colosum), and Dandy Walkers Syndrome. Within a few weeks of doing so, they knew she needed to be apart of their forever family. And the journey began…you prayers and support is greatly appreciated on this journey!
Let us not love with words or tongue, but in action and truth. John 8:8
1/4/12—DOSSIER COMPLETE, AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow the Coleman family's adoption journey on their blog at calledtograce.blogspot.com
Chris and Gretchen have been married for four fabulous years. They have three sons whom they adopted from the Lord the old fashioned way. They are currently expecting their fourth child but that doesn’t stop them from seeking out the children who are already on this earth and in dire need of a home and family. During college Gretchen spent time living in Ecuador and volunteering in the orphanages there. The imprint those children left will never diminish. It showed her that orphans are out there, waiting; not living, not loving, just waiting. Adoption has always been in the plans but while in grad school it just wasn’t an option. Most recently Chris has finished school and started working as a Dentist for the United States Air Force. FINALLY they can open their hearts and home to the souls the Lord has already sent to earth. This will be their first adoption but likely not their last. With Chris having spent a number of years working and teaching in Russia this little angel was a perfect fit; not to mention she looks just like the rest of the family. Adopting is a daunting task, adopting a special needs older child is even more daunting a task but they know if the Lord brought them here, He will see them through. It is their hope that God will continue to bless and watch over her and all the other waiting children until they are brought safely home.
1/4/12—HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Gillette family's adoption journey on their blog http://ohillwrite.blogspot.com/
Matt and Amy have been happily married for 13 years. In that time there family has grown to include 3 wonderful daughters Lilli(9), Vivian(6) and Piper (2). Matt and Amy have been affectionately named by friends the “kid family.” You see they have a deep love for children and family life. Amy has dreamt of adopting since she was a little girl. As God blessed the Petersons with 3 biological children she thought this dream was not to be. In Dec. 2010 Amy was reading a magazine that shared the story of a Reece’s Rainbow family. Her heart was so moved by the needs of international special needs children that both Matt and Amy began to pray about how God wanted them to be involved in orphan care. Would He want them to advocate, to donate? The answer was yes, but He even more lovingly showed them the face of a little girl that He knew was meant for them. Heidi captured the entire family’s heart. Every day as the family sits down to dinner you can hear the littlest in the family praying for their sister far away. They know the road is long and that it will take the love and support of many to make Heidi’s miracle of a family come true. But the Petersons trust that “God will complete this good work He has started”. Thank you for being a part of Heidi’s miracle!
12/27/11—HOME STUDY COMPLETE, COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow the Peterson family's adoption journey on their blog at theleastofthesematthew2540.blogspot.com
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.
12/27/11—HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://townsendgirl.blogspot.com
Tyler and Valerie began their journey when they met in 2003 in Biloxi, Mississippi. In 2005 they were married and lived in Sumter, South Carolina where Tyler was stationed. They have a wonderful 7-year-old son Hunter who is an amazing boy who always wanted to be a big brother! In 2008 the Kirkland’s moved to Aviano, Italy. It was there that God clearly showed them that they were to adopt after 4 years of infertility. They began the process for 2 “healthy” children from Ukraine in October of 2009. The process took much longer than it was supposed to since Tyler was deployed to Afghanistan and all of the documents had to travel all over the World. Some time in September to October 2010, Valerie found adoption blogs that lead her to Reece’s Rainbow. Tyler, Valerie and Hunter spent hours reading the blogs of Reece’s Rainbow families and would look and pray over all of the children on the Reece’s Rainbow website. The Kirkland’s knew that they could not forget about these children and felt without a doubt that God was calling them to adopt a child with Down syndrome. While this was happening the Kirkland’s dossier was in Ukraine and they were waiting for their travel date. It seemed everyone was getting their dates but them, but God quickly revealed his plan. Around the middle of October Valerie received an email from their agency stating that they would not be getting a travel date until there were “healthy” children available. A day or two after that they saw a little girl on Reece’s Rainbow who had a major heart problem and needed a family. Without even thinking twice Valerie and Tyler called Andrea at RR and said, “We want to adopt this little girl!!” At the same time they called their agency and told them that they didn’t want a “healthy” child and that God was calling them to a child with Down syndrome. In God’s provision the Kirkland’s agency used the same facilitator in Ukraine that Reece’s Rainbow did!!!! But they found out that a family who was already adopting a little boy from the same orphanage wanted to adopt the little girl they had called about! Still they knew God had a plan. Andrea gave them time to choose other children and they knew that they wanted two, a boy and a girl. God led them to their two beautiful children, Asher (Caleb on RR) and Emma (Beth on RR). Their gotcha day was December 27, 2010, one day before their 6th Anniversary. Their family was complete—for a little while. Almost a year later, God put it on their hearts to adopt again, this time two boys from another country in Eastern Europe.
12/19/11—HOME STUDY COMPLETE, COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow the Kirkland family's adoption journey on their blog http://thekirklandfamily-valkirk26.blogspot.com/
Paul and Bekah have been married for 6 ½ years and they have two daughters, ages 4 and 5. Adoption has always been close to their hearts, and they have seen many of their friends and family blessed by adoption. When they heard about Reece’s Rainbow and the number of kids in orphanages around the world that had no hope and faced being sent to adult institutions if they were not able to find families, their hearts broke. They knew they wanted to bring one of these children home to love forever as a family.
All four of them are anxiously waiting to be able to bring Sam home – the girls can’t wait to meet their little brother! They are so incredibly thankful for the prayers and support of their friends and family. Please consider supporting them in their journey to bring their son home, and spread the word – every small donation helps them get closer! Please also remember them in prayer – especially Sam as he waits for his Mommy and Daddy to bring him home, and the other kids who don’t yet have families coming for them.
12/19/11–HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Ashman family's adoption journey on their blog http://withlovetoshare.wordpress.com
It's always such a blessing to see an older child chosen for adoption!
Tracy is a 30-something, single, Christian mom. She graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Spanish. She has one homegrown son–Lucas who is 10 years old. Her heart has been burdened to adopt for many years, and two years ago she took the plunge and began her adoption journey. There have been many closed doors during her adoption journey both domestically through the U.S. Foster Care System and internationally in Africa. But now Tracy is grateful for each closed door because each one lead her one step closer to Lucy! She is eternally grateful to Reece's Rainbow and the many RR families who have shared their joruneys and opened her eyes to the many blessings that children gifted with an extra chromosome bring their families.
12/19/11—IN COUNTRY CHANGES/DELAYS, IN PROGRESS
Follow the Morgan family's adoption journey on their blog at www.followingthelamb-whereverhegoes.blogspot.com
John, a freight carman for the railroad, and Sherry, a stay-at-home mom, were high school sweethearts and dated for over 4 years before getting married in 1989. A year and a half after they got married, they committed their lives to Christ and began going to a local church. Over 21 years later, they now have five children: Travis(21), Ashley(19), Cody(9), Landon(4), and Laura(20 months). When Sherry was thirteen weeks pregnant with Laura, an ultrasound showed markers that were consistent with Down syndrome. At first, the family was scared and uncertain about what this meant for Laura, but soon discovered how beautiful and how much of a blessing Down syndrome was. Over a year ago, their daughter, Ashley, discovered Reece's Rainbow through blogging and Facebook. She instantly fell in love with the children. John and Sherry fell in love with them as well. When they found out what the fate of many of these little ones might be, if not adopted by the age of 4 or 5 years old, they knew that they couldn't just stand back and not do anything about it. They began thinking about adopting through Reece's Rainbow many months ago, but seriously started looking into it when they fell in love with Donna. They can't wait to bring that beautiful little girl home and give her the love and family that she deserves. They would appreciate lots of prayers as they continue on with their adoption journey.
1/7/12—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Quinn family's adoption journey on their blog at autumnmakessix.blogspot.com
Chris and Nicole met in college and have been married for 9 years. Chris works for a small Christian college and Nicole is a stay-at-home mom. They have been blessed with 3 children ages 5, 3, and 2. After giving birth to their first child, God made it clear they were being called to step out in faith and adopt. During their first adoption of a beautiful little girl from Ethiopia, God opened their eyes to the plight of the orphans of the world. Their lives were forever changed! They adopted a second time from Ethiopia and now hear God calling them to adopt again — this time from a completely different country.
Nicole was so excited to find Reece’s Rainbow and see all the children with special needs find families. She loves checking often to see the new adoption placements. “It gives me such hope that there are other families stepping out — acting as Jesus’ hands and feet to these wonderful children!”
12/9/11—HOME STUDY COMPLETE; COMPILING DOSSIER
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10
Matthew and Tammy have been married for nearly 3 years. They have a blended family of 3 girls. They were in the process of adopting a child with hydrocephalus. After months of waiting for this little boy named Nathanael, they were told that Nathanael was no longer adoptable. They had waited for months and months for Nathanael's country to say it was okay to adopt him as their dossier sat over in his country. The news was devastating!
They begin praying to see what God would have them do. They felt God showed them to let go of Nathanael and place him in God's hands.
God showed them that they had to let go of Nathanael, open their heart and trust Him. He showed them that letting go of Nathanael did not mean that he would no longer be in their heart. It did not mean that they had to take down pictures of him and stop praying for him. It just meant that they had to accept that God had other plans and His wisdom is beyond their understanding. It means, their prayers for Nathanael have changed. They still pray for his healing, but also pray for Nathanael's family, his orphanage, and his country.
They prayed and God spoke. Matt and Tammy felt that God still wanted them to adopt. Matt spearheaded the search for a child and they came across two children who are unrelated in the same orphanage. After praying some more, they applied to the adoption agency and were accepted to start the process of bringing home these two orphans from Eastern Europe.
This journey into international adoption, has been a bittersweet one. Although they are not bringing home the child they originally intended, they are bringing home two other angels that have also captured their heart.
Their 3 children, Justine – 19 years old, Carrie – 16 years old, and Mia – 8 years old, are very excited that their family trusted God and are still bringing home two children who will no longer be orphans but will be their brother and sister.
11/28/11—BEGINNING AGAIN IN A DIFFERENT COUNTRY PROGRAM
Follow the Preston family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://savenathaniel.blogspot.com/
Tom and Elizabeth have been married 35 years. They have adopted 13 children ages 3-35 years old now. Two of their adopted children (7 & 8 ) are their birth-bio granddaughters adopted at their births. They have 4 birth children ages 7, 30, 32 and 35. They have a heart for children and adults with special needs and adoption. They also run a 4 bed group home for adults with disabilities in their home for the last 24 years. They are active with advocating for adoption and people with special needs in their community. In 2009 they had their US homestudy done. They had been applying for many referals of children in the US only to be told that they were too old, had too many at home (7) and shouldn't homeschool children with special needs. They were crushed. Especially since God had blessed them with their birth son Isaiah (now 7) when Elizabeth was 47 and Tom was 50. Apparently God doesn't think they are too old. Elizabeth looked at the RR website on occasion to pray for the children but they really did not want to do an International adoption. They were also tired of rejection, seeing the age requirements of many countries. And then they saw Bulgaria!!! After much prayer God pointed out to them that they were like Jonah not wanting to go to Ninevah!! Elizabeth joined the RR Yahoo group. Soon though Elizabeth was getting discouraged again trying to find children under age 6 at the same orphanage in Bulgaria. When out of the blue someone posted that Emmett and Eric were in the same orphanage in Bulgaria still waiting. That was like a message from God!
After bringing home Emmett and Eric, the Tom and Elizabeth began working on bringing home Teddy, Val & Steward to complete their family!!
2/6/12—DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the Archer family's adoption journey on their blog at http://theroaddownhome.blogspot.com/
Randy and Sheila have been together for nearly 18 years and married 13 years. They have four wonderful children the first of which was their son Michael (14) he was followed by his special little sister Caelia (8) who was born with Down syndrome. As Caelia grew and they discovered the wonders of a special needs child, they decided to adopt Valeria (8) also with DS from Ukraine in 2008. Valeria and Caelia became an instant set of twins who enjoy and enrich each other. Realizing there was room for more love in the family they chose to adopt Masha (4) another DS princess from Moscow, Russia in 2010. Masha is another piece of the puzzle that has taken the family to a new level of love and happiness.
After much soul searching and realizing how much Valeria and Masha have thrived in their home, they made the decision that there was room for yet another incredible child. Angelina is 6 years old and is on the verge of being transferred to an institution from her baby house. She is the missing piece that will make their puzzle complete. Having gone through the foreign adoption process twice before they, know and understand the challenges and are committed to bringing Angelina home as soon as possible to make their family stronger than ever.
10/28/11—DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the Green family's adoption journey on their blog at www.thesunflowerchronicles.blogspot.com
John and Amy met in college and have been married for 10 years. They have three children: Josh (9), Anna (7) and Ben (4). When Ben was born, they were surprised to discover he had designer genes, otherwise known as Trisomy 21 or Down syndrome. Ben was also born with two congenital heart defects which were surgically- repaired when he was only 3 months old. Very quickly, Ben had the entire family wrapped around his little finger! He has brought so much happiness and light into the Jupin home!
When John and Amy discovered Reece’s Rainbow last year, their hearts were broken. How could these children, who look so much like their own sweet Ben boy, not have loving homes filled with doting parents and siblings? They began making small donations to several families and following some of their adoption blogs. But still adoption seemed so out of reach.
Then one day, while looking at RR, Amy saw the picture of a little boy that reminded her so much of her other children. That night, she showed it to John and he agreed that maybe they should do more. Maybe they should adopt too. Following their hearts, the Jupin family is beginning the process of bringing home their fourth child, Davis, a little boy from Russia, the same age as their Ben. They have no doubt that Davis will soon have them all wrapped around his little finger too!
1/9/12—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the Jupin family’s adoption journey on their blog at jupinfamily.blogspot.com
Vicky Theroux is a 40 year old single mother who works as a Pediatric Occupational Therapist in Harrison, AR. She has one son, a 12 year old whom is the light of her life. Jericho was also adopted, through the US foster care system. Having a child changes your whole outlook on life. Having a child with a special need changes your perspective on "what's important" like nothing else. Ms. Theroux spends her life dedicated to helping children reach their maximum poptential and finds great personal satisfaction celebrating each step with them, no matter how small.
10/11/11—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Theroux family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://savingsergey.blogspot.com/
Darren and Karen met many years ago through mutual friends. They have been married since 1991. Over the last 20 years they have been blessed with 3 wonderful children. Their daughter Ashleigh joined their family through adoption from China in 2006. She has been such a wonderful addition to their family. Her adoption was the beginning of their eyes being open to the needs of orphans around the world. From that time on they have felt that there is still someone missing from their family. In July of 2009 they began to try and adopt from foster care, but by the end of 2010 it had become obvious that was not the right path. In October 2010 Karen came across Reese’s Rainbow and was scrolling through the pages, looking at the children. It was there that she saw Chelsea’s photo. From that day on Chelsea has never been far from her mind. They began working on her adoption earlier this year and are very excited to add her to their family.
10/19/11—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog darrenandkaren.blogspot.com
Jason and Angie never imagined the beautiful journey that they would be a part of when they were married 14 years ago. The Christopherson family has been blessed with 4 biological kids, Hailee age 13, Jordan 11, and Emilie and Rylie 9 year old twins. In 2006 the Christophersons hearts were opened to adoption by the gentle leading of God. Through many twists and turns, waiting and praying, they were blessed to bring home their youngest daughter Kaydee from Taiwan in 2009. She is truly a loved and treasured member of the family. Kaydee's adoption also opened Jason and Angie's hearts towards special needs adoption. Kaydee was a waiting child with special needs, and she was also the Christopherson families first experience with a special needs child. One thing that God softly spoke to them was that all children have their own special needs, because each child is a beautiful and unique creation from God. Jason and Angie knew that God would give them the strength and ability to parent a child with special needs, they just needed to trust in Him! The family has been blessed and encouraged to be a part of Reece's Rainbow for the past few years and feel privileged to be a part of such a wonderful ministry. They feel that God is truly moving through special needs adoption to enable families to be the Hands and feet of Jesus for these precious little ones.
Last year the Christophersons set out on another adoption journey to adopt a waiting child through Reece's Rainbow. Unfortunately, after submitting a dossier, it was discovered that the precious little girl that they had prayed for and planned to adopt was found to be not available for adoption, The family was heartbroken and not sure what to do. Well, as in all difficult situations they went to the Heavenly Father in prayer, and He answered them. He showed them the way back to Taiwan! The Christopherson family is thrilled to be chosen to adopt a beautiful little girl with special needs from Taiwan.
They also continue to pray for the little girl that they were not able to bring home, and hope that one day she will be available for adoption too. No matter what, they have learned that God is in control and His plans are always bigger and better than any of us can imagine. Faith in God has brought the Christopherson family through some very difficult times, and faith continues to help them press on. The Christopherson family would appreciate your prayers as they continue to walk by faith and go where God is leading them.
10/28/11—DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the Christopherson family's adoption journey on their blog at www.angie-hopefaithlove.blogspot.com
Joe and Christina have been married for thirteen years. They have two children, a nine year-
old son Jack, and a seven-year-old daughter Veda. Christina has always had a vision for her future about adopting a child with Down Syndrome, and she and Joe had discussed it at length but never quite felt like the time was right. Their plan was to continue thinking and praying about it in order to better understand Godʼs will for their lives.
Over the past few years, Joeʼs job as an MRI technologist has given him the opportunity to interact with different special needs children, including children with Down Syndrome, and the idea of adding to their family became more compelling. Recently they both began to feel a very compelling sense that their family was not yet complete. Ultimately, both Joe and Christina came back to the idea that adopting a Downs child was what God planned for them. At the beginning of August they began the adoption process with the intent of bringing 3-month-old Yana home to be a part of their family.
Joe and Christina canʼt wait to welcome Yana into their new home. Every day, Jack and Veda are more excited about their new little sister.
10/1/11–HOME STUDY COMPLETE
The Jakubauskas Family’s journey to adopting Allen has been a long one! God started preparing their hearts for adoption over 10 years ago. After almost 2 years of “trying” to get pregnant Eric and Kelsey had a heart to heart talk and agreed that they would adopt if God’s plan was not for them to have biological children. But just a few weeks later they discovered that they were pregnant with their son! Fast forward 10 years and 4 children (Christian – 9, Ana – 6, Eve – 3, Zachary – 2) and they are right where God prepared them to be so many years ago.
During this 10 year period God continued to use many situations and people to keep Eric and Kelsey focused on the idea of adopting “someday”. Someday turned into today when friends from church adopted internationally not once, but 4 times and educated them about the incredible need for forever families for orphans from other countries.
They were led to Allen through an amazing series of events that just could not have been anything but God! Eric and Kelsey are very hopeful that they will be able to get their precious little man home before his next birthday
9/8/11—DOSSIER COMPLETE, AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow the Jakubauskas family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.four-more.blogspot.com
James and Veronica Brown have been happily married for almost seven years. James is a retread plant manager, while Veronica works part-time at the hospital as a surgery scheduler. Their work schedule is perfect so Veronica is able to spend so much time in the mornings with her 1-year old son, David, who has Down Syndrome. David’s diagnosis was a surprise to the couple as her prenatal screenings were negative! But James and Veronica took the news very well and considered the diagnosis as a blessing and honor, since God obviously trusted the couple with an extra-special baby with an extra-chromosome! In raising their son, they have been able to first-hand “see” the blessing of Down Syndrome and they find it hard to believe that there are orphans out there that will be sent to an institution if they are not adopted by the time they turn 4 years old! In an evening of searching the internet for Down Syndrome related topics, Veronica stumbled upon Evan’s picture on the Reece’s Rainbow website, and her heart absolutely melted for him. As days past the only thing on Veronica’s waking mind was Evan. Her husband would get daily phone calls at work that went, “Guess who I’m thinking about…”, and their nightly prayers just had to include little Evan. She brought up the idea of international adoption to her husband, who was very supportive (to her surprise!). With a loving and supportive family backing them in their decision, James and Veronica have stepped out in faith to pursue adopting the beautiful little boy. They trust that God will help them in their journey with an extra measure of faith, patience, and extra finances to make this happen! James and Veronica Brown have been happily married for almost seven years. James is a retread plant manager, while Veronica works part-time at the hospital as a surgery scheduler. Their work schedule is perfect so Veronica is able to spend so much time in the mornings with her 1-year old son, David, who has Down Syndrome. David’s diagnosis was a surprise to the couple as her prenatal screenings were negative! But James and Veronica took the news very well and considered the diagnosis as a blessing and honor, since God obviously trusted the couple with an extra-special baby with an extra-chromosome!
In raising their son, they have been able to first-hand “see” the blessing of Down Syndrome and they find it hard to believe that there are orphans out there that will be sent to an institution if they are not adopted by the time they turn 4 years old! In an evening of searching the internet for Down Syndrome related topics, Veronica stumbled upon Evan’s picture on the Reece’s Rainbow website, and her heart absolutely melted for him. As days past the only thing on Veronica’s waking mind was Evan. Her husband would get daily phone calls at work that went, “Guess who I’m thinking about…”, and their nightly prayers just had to include little Evan. She brought up the idea of international adoption to her husband, who was very supportive (to her surprise!). With a loving and supportive family backing them in their decision, James and Veronica have stepped out in faith to pursue adopting the beautiful little boy. They trust that God will help them in their journey with an extra measure of faith, patience, and extra finances to make this happen!
12/19/11—FINGERPRINTING APPT
Follow the Brown family's adoption journey on their blog at www.downwiththebrowns.blogspot.com
Johnny and Jamie Huff have been married for 4 years, love kids and are the proud parents of four children (his & hers), Phillip (24), Brian (22), Brennan (11) and Katie (9). Johnny and Jamie have long had the desire to adopt a child and discovered that mutual desire when dating. After a year of marriage they tried to adopt domestically through a Christian adoption/fosteragency and CPS. After a couple of years of waiting and searching, nothing materialized. After both feeling directed in a different direction in January 2011, they learned of Dillon International's Hong Kong Waiting Child Program. They read of a little girl with Down Syndrome and KNEW that she was the one God was waiting to bring into their family. They are told that she loves music, having books read to her, cuddles from caregivers and has a beautiful smile.
Being that International adoption was not the route originally planned by the Huff's, they have used all personal monetary resources available and know that God will supply all of their need to complete Lyric's adoption to bring her home!
7/14/11—AWAITING I-800A Approval
Follow the Huff family's adoption journey on their blog at http://singlyricsong.wordpress.com
Ash and Danielle have been married for almost 11 years. They have 6 wonderful children; their ages range from 19 months -9 years old, the oldest being a boy with the heart of a daddy and 5 little mommies anxiously awaiting the arrival of this precious little one. The family found Reece’s Rainbow back in December during the Angel Tree Program and instantly fell in love with all the children. After finding out the circumstances these children face their hearts were broken. They prayed that the Lord would show them His will regarding adoption and are confident that this is what God has called them to do. They are all looking forward to bringing this sweet little guy home, where he will never be lacking in hugs and kisses from his Mommy and Daddy as well as his many siblings. They are excited to add him to their extended church family as much as their own, and can’t wait to share how much Jesus loves him!
8/21/11—HOME STUDY COMPLETE, AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow the Farley family's adoption journey on their blog at www.Farleykids.blogspot.com
