These families are in the process of completing their HOME STUDY, and still very much need your financial support!
Thank you for your generous gift of life and love!
Sponsor one or more families to help with the financial burden of their adoption journey.
Ron and Shana were married in 2001. They dearly love each of their children; 2 daughters ages 18 and 13 and twin boys who are 9 and an adult son (25) who serves our country in the United States Air Force. Although Ron and Shana have talked about adoption from the time they met they never felt the timing was right. Little did they know that God was going to bring them down a path that they never could dream of. Shana and Ron prayed for their best friends, Chris and Maria Solomon as they followed God’s calling on their lives to adopt a child with Down syndrome through Reece’s Rainbow. It was through this that God would lead Shana and Ron to realize that adopting a Down syndrome child was also God’s calling on their lives as well. Ron and Shana talked and prayed over their feelings and both expressed to each other that they would pray and seek God’s will in this. They both started researching, asking friends and close family to pray, and seeking Godly counsel. Over and over God kept bringing them to Deuteronomy 10:18 that states, “He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing”. While they prayed about God’s will for their future they committed to pray for 6 children on the Reece’s Rainbow website. Ron and Shana each chose a child and each of their children chose one too! Finally after much prayer and scripture searching, Ron and Shana realized that adopting a precious angel with Down syndrome was what God was calling them to do. So, on Christmas day Ron and Shana started looking through all the precious children waiting for a forever home. It didn’t take long when their eyes saw a precious baby boy and they instantly fell in love. He has no idea how much he is already loved by his Mom and Dad and siblings. Shana and Ron believe with their whole hearts that every child has a purpose and deserves to feel the love of a family (Jeremiah 1:5) and this little boy is no exception! The entire family and all of their friends cannot wait to bring our son home and show him the unconditional love of a forever family.
Lisa has always considered adoption as a way to build her family. Lisa brought her son Silas home from Ethiopia in 2009, and knew then that she would be adopting again. This time Lisa drew from her experience on a mission trip to Ghana where she cared for children in need, her experience as a volunteer working with medically fragile infants locally, and the memories of the many children with medical conditions left behind in orphanages on her trip to Ethiopia. This led her to research and investigate a special needs adoption. Lisa also became involved in fundraising for groups who help to educate and advocate for orphans whom are HIV+. After much research, thought and prayer, Lisa decided to adopt a child whom was HIV+. Lisa heard of Reeces Rainbow and began looking at waiting children, and before long she fell in love with a little boy in Haiti named Kenny who was looking for a forever home. Lisa believes that this is what she is meant to do, no matter how difficult the process, emotionally and financially. Her son Silas is so excited at the thought of being a big brother and Lisa cant wait to have two Kenny and Silas chasing each other around her home. She cannot express how grateful she is to family and friends for all the thoughts, prayers and donations throughout this process. Thank you for being a part of bringing home this little angel.
10/28/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Parenti family's adoption journey on their blog
I have several friends adopting through Reece’s Rainbow and I went to the site to donate to a friends fund. I saw the link for the 5/5/5 program and then Xander’s picture. Instead of just feeling compassion for his situation I felt what my friends had already experienced. I felt protective and everything in me rebelled at the thought of this child going to an institution. Looking at his eyes it felt like I was looking at my son. So I talked to my husband and we decided to make Xander part of our family. To bring him home to us where his needs don’t mark him as less, so that he can be his best.
6/1/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Kelley family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://hopeforxander.blogspot.com/
Roger and Kristen have been married for 5 years and have a 3 and a half year old biological daughter, Eden. As long as Kristen can remember, she always had a desire to adopt. In fact, when Roger was about to propose to Kristen, she said “I want you to know that God has called me to adopt one day, so if you marry me, you have to be on board with this.” Roger had not even considered adoption, but was open to the idea and during the first few years of their marriage, they talked about it, prayed about it and researched various programs and countries. They knew they were going to adopt, but wanted God’s direction for them. It seemed that one country in particular was the best fit for them, however, Roger encouraged Kristen to look into the Eastern Europe programs again, so for about the 4th time Kristen reached out to an adoption agency serving Eastern Europe and spoke to them about their healthy children. The next day, Roger spoke to the same agency and learned about the special needs program. When he mentioned this to Kristen, she said “We’re not adopting a child with special needs, we’re adopting a healthy little baby.” It wasn’t that Kristen was opposed, but just as Roger had never even considered adoption as an option back in 2005, Kristen had never even considered that God might be calling them to adopt a child with special needs. So, as they do with most decisions, they began to pray. They also began to research one particular special need: Down Syndrome. They saw a picture of a little girl, whom they call Ella, and prayed about whether this was God’s will for them. During the decision-making process Kristen and Roger listed out the possible reasons why this would not work for them as individuals and also as a family… but they came to the conclusion that all of the reasons listed were selfish and that in serving Jesus, He would provide the grace and strength to handle every challenge that surfaced. They also knew that the challenges or obstacles that might take place in their family and in their lives, was nothing compared to what this little one would face in her future without a mama and daddy to care for her. They also realized that by saying “yes” they were opening up their hearts for tremendous joy and blessings.
On November, 26th they received an update on little Ella and she was not doing well, and it was in that very moment that Kristen realized that she loved this little girl and that this precious baby needed and deserved a mamma and daddy just like their own little one in their house. It was during the same time frame that they were alerted to another little baby with Down Syndrome that had just entered the same orphanage, whom they call Anna. They prayed again and felt that God wanted them to adopt both girls, so with joyful hearts they informed their adoption agency, “we want both girls!”
At this point, the Ajamian’s dossier has been sent to Eastern Europe and they are waiting for their first travel date. They pray for their daughter’s every day and cannot wait to hold them, cuddle them and show them how much they are loved. Big sister Eden is also very excited! The Ajamian’s didn’t know that God was leading them in this direction, but they love the adventure that they are on!
7/6/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Evan and Faith met and married young after knowing each other only 4 months. Against all odds, they have been happily married for 10 years. they have a 7 year old son named Morgan. In 2006, they were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Nora, who was born with a variety of genetic abnormalities including 5P-, also known as Cri Du Chat (Cat’s Cry Syndrome). Nora blessed their lives for a little over 3 years. She passed away in Jan. 2010 from chronic lung disease. Evan and Faith know she is with God now, where she can dance and sing and waits for them to join her some day.
After much thought and prayer, they decided that they simply have too much love as a family and need to share that with another child who has special needs. They adopted Etta who has Down Syndrome from Serbia in March 2010. She is such a incredible blessing.
After more thought and prayer, they feel led to bring an older child who has less of a chance of being adopted, Josiah, home to be part of their family. Their family, just like yours, does not have the $25,000 ransom required to adopt Josiah just sitting in a bank account, but if everyone gives just a little, whatever you can, it will add up to exactly what we need. Please carefully consider donating AND spreading the word about Josiah and his new family desperately trying to bring him home from the institution quickly!
10/2/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Jobes family's adoption journey on their blog
Many years ago, Jason and Jaime visited an orphanage while traveling overseas. Their hearts were touched and burdened for the children and so they considered that one day they might adopt. Married now for 10 years with 3 biological children they had been thinking about adding another child to their family, presumably through a pregnancy. However, Jaime’s feelings came as a surprise when she stumbled upon a picture of Isaac . She felt as if God was tugging on her heart, connecting her somehow to this precious boy dressed in a pink onsie. When she shared the picture and Jason, they felt compelled to pray. As they did, they felt their hearts opening more and more to an idea that made their hearts race; adoption. They know Isaac deserves a family to champion and adore him all throughout his life. They cherish the blessing and joy it will be when they can hold him close and help him step into the fullness of God’s blessings for his future.
5/28/11—HOME STUDY UPDATE IN PROGRESS
Follow the Kelley family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://room4love.blogspot.com
Amanda has wanted to adopt since she was a child and knew this would be how she would have a family. Amanda has enjoyed rescuing and adopting dogs from horrible situations and watching them become spoiled. They love lying in beds, getting dressed (yes my dogs wear clothes 
), having baths, and request my attention ever chance they can (usually with just a look). After getting her masters and becoming a special education teacher adoption was a future goal. However, after seeing Hannah adoption turned into an immediate goal!!!! Amanda can’t wait for Hannah to come home to a family that already loves her, be tucked into bed at night, and never experience loneliness!!!
Although Mr. Right hasn’t come around if he does having a child will only solidify that he’s “Mr. Right”. Prayers for Hannah’s health and safe travel are welcome and appreciated. Thank you for donations of any kind they are needed and will make Hannah’s arrival possible.
10/13/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Tim and Heidi have been married for over eight years and feel incredibly blessed with two amazing children. Freddie was born to them nearly six years ago, and Valerie joined their family through adoption 18 months ago at about 2 years of age—she is now 3-1/2. God used their struggle with infertility to open their eyes to the desperate needs of orphaned children all around the world, especially those with special needs who are less likely to be placed with families. Their precious daughter, Valerie, has Down syndrome and has been such a blessing and a ray of sunshine in their home. They can’t imagine their lives without her. When Tim and Heidi were in the adoption process with Valerie, a friend told them about Reece’s Rainbow, and Heidi has made many visits to the Web site since then to pray for the precious little ones who are waiting for families. Recently Tim and Heidi felt God stirring in their hearts to adopt again, and as they were praying and talking over what steps to take, a little face on Reece’s Rainbow grabbed their hearts. They are joyfully committed to little Joshua, and can hardly wait to hold him in their arms and bring him home to his forever family. Tim and Heidi are excited to see how God is going to move in their lives and in Joshua’s life. The Hopkins invite you to join them in their adoption journey through your love, prayers, support, and giving. Please pray for them—for Joshua as he waits for his family and for the Hopkins as they work hard to bring their son home. Please consider giving financially to help with the many adoption expenses. They are trusting in God to provide. This little guy needs to come home!
12/20/11—HOMESTUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://hopkinsfamilyadoption.blogspot.com
Gary and Denise Peddington Davis met as children in 1968 in England. They grew up as childhood sweethearts and also best friends. Gary returned to the United States and joined the Navy shortly after highschool and was stationed on a US Navy Submarine. Meanwhile, Denise was furthering her education and became a Teacher. Gary and Denise’s love for each other continued and they finally married in 1992. During their 19 years of marriage they have welcomed 6 biological children and 3 adopted children. They have been involved in orphan ministry for twelve years and during that time adopted Makayla who is now thirteen and came home in 2001 and Patrick, now age eleven, who came home in 2002. In 2011 the Davis family welcomed their youngest daughter Chrissie home from Bulgaria. They learned about Chrissie through Reece’s Rainbow. After adopting Chrissie, both Gary and Denise knew that their next child or children would be listed on Reece’s Rainbow and they looked forward to falling in love with future additions to their family.
When Gary and Denise left Bulgaria, their hearts stayed with some of the precious children that remained. One set of children that pulled at their hearts was a sibling group of two children whose names were Braska and Zack. These sweet kids have a condition called Cystic Fibrosis (CF). CF is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system, making the children vulnerable to repeated lung infections, difficulties breathing, frequent chronic lung diseases and infections. Cf also causes malnutriousment due to lack of protein absorbing and serve pain in the abdomen. Both Braska and Zack have advanced CF and if left untreated their lives will be shortened and they will spend them in chronic pain. Both children will need lifetime medication and treatments to survive. Braska and Zack are also developmentally delayed and need to be in a family where they can receive the therapy and care they need to reach their full potential.
Gary and Denise are ready and willing to meet Braska and Zack’s needs and to welcome them into their family. However, they need your help to bring these precious children home. Adoption is expensive, as we all know, and the Davisfamily only just recently brought Chrissie home. This family is praying that God would provide and build their adoption fund so that these siblings can come home quickly. Will you help bring Braska and Zack home to their family’s waiting arms?
12/10/11—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the Davis family's adoption journey on their blog www.nachalaadopt.blogspot.com
Chris and Julie have three dearly loved daughters. Now they have a precious son (in their hearts) who they want to bring home; Ryan! They love watching God work in amazing ways and can’t wait to see all that He has in store for Ryan.
Why Ryan? He requires urgent medical care, has many special needs, aged out of his first orphanage which lead to being “transferred”…and he has completely captivated their hearts! Chris and Julie believe every life- planned or unplanned, typical or with special needs- is created by God, deserves love, has eternal value, and can point others to Christ’s love. Not only do Chris and Julie want to see what Ryan’s role is in history His story- God’s story- they want to be part of it…and so can YOU!
While this may feel like the beginning of Ryan’s story, it is not. God has already been moving mountains all over the world for this little guy. God has raised up people to pray for Ryan and He is listening to and answering those prayers. He has strengthened a host of Christians to take action and has blessed those steps taken in faith! You can read the miraculous things God has done in their blog.
Throughout their life, through many circumstances, God has been preparing Chris and Julie’s hearts and lives to adopt again. Ryan was discovered by the Faulkner’s when Julie’s best friend from junior high school posted a link to Reece’s Rainbow. The dots were connected and hearts were stirred to action- with Ryan being the target of the Faulkner’s affection, prayers, and action. Lord willing, Ryan will soon have these titles of love and belonging: son, brother, grandson, nephew!
This couple, celebrating eight years of marriage and three daughters, needs to raise the financial support to bring Ryan into the care and love of their family. They are confident of these two things: 1) What God begins, He will continue. 2) What God promises, He will provide. God has used people from many countries to impact Ryan’s role in His story, and he will move other people like you, who care about the orphan child, to help continue it. May God be glorified as Ryan’s role in His story unfolds into the Faulkner family. Thank you for praying for Ryan and for moving to action to get him home!
12/6/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Faulkner family's adoption journey on their blog http://goingafterone.blogspot.com/
UPDATE: The Calkins have also been given persmission to bring Rhiannon home!
Andy and Shannon have been married for one year. They are so proud of their blended family which consists of Andy’s biological daughter, Jordan who is 20 and Shannon’s biological son, Alex, who is 9. Andy and Shannon have each always dreamed of having a large family, but it often seemed that God had a different plan. Each suffered loss through miscarriage in their previous marriages. With every corner, and every turn it became abundantly clear that adoption was something that their family should embrace. Shannon learned of Reece’s Rainbow through an on-line forum for Spastic Paraplegia, a disease which little is known about and which some of her family members live with. Reece’s Rainbow opened their family’s eyes, and hearts to the children waiting to be loved, to live full lives, to have a family. They are thrilled beyond words to know that they will further grow their blended family and that they will be blessed with the love of some very special children.
11/8/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Calkins family's adoption journey on their blog http://shanandylove.blogspot.com/
Adam and Rebecca met in 2004 after knowing each other from childhood but not reconnecting until they were adults. In 2005 they were married. Rebecca brought a son into their marriage named Royce, and soon after, they were blessed with another little boy who they named Hunter. In 2008 they welcomed their third little boy who they named Cameron. Rebecca loves all of her little boys, but it was really on her heart to add a fourth child (a girl!) through adoption. They first found Lilianna through Reece’s Rainbow in 2010. By the time they inquired, she already had a committed family and later was not able to be adopted due to health issues. Rebecca and Adam have been praying for Lilianna since then. When she became available the following year, they knew they were meant to be this little girl’s parents. Adam was given the verse Jeremiah 23:3 "I myself will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them and will bring them back to their pasture, where they will be fruitful and increase in number,” and knew it was time to go and get his little girl! Rebecca couldn’t have agreed more!
Lilianna will be welcomed home by 3 big brothers who are now 8, 5 and3 as well as a dog named Marley, 10 chickens..all named “Dinner” except for one hen named “Henrietta”, and 2 horses named Bombay and Sherman. You can find this family having fun at church, enjoying the beautiful outdoors the Colorado Mountains offer, playing at the lake, or just hanging out around the house and watching movies, visiting with friends, or doing a DIY project. When they are not busy with the adoption journey and painting a room in their house pink for this little princess, they’d love for you to join in this experience by following their blog.
1/16/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at www.LilysLight.blogspot.com
Michael and Laura Bailey were thrilled when they learned that they were expecting their first child. They beamed with excitement and wanted to shout the news from roof tops! It wasn’t too long into Laura’s pregnancy that they learned that her son would be born with defects and she was given the option to terminate. In fact, it was recommended that she did. That, however, was never a consideration for her. Her baby deserved a chance. After their son, Tyler, was born they faced terrifying times and had to fight to keep him alive. People felt sorry for them, but the Baileys knew that they had been blessed. They had been given a child who taught them more about love, dedication, compassion, gratitude, and determination, to name a few, than they could have ever imagined. Tyler is now a thriving seven year old child.
When the Baileys saw Carlton listed on Reece's Rainbow, they instantly felt a bond with him. They immediately knew that he had a place in their family – that he was their son. He even looks like their biological son! From the moment that the Baileys saw Carlton's picture, they planned on how they would bring their beautiful little boy home, to give him the mommy and daddy that he has been asking for. Every child is a gift and a special needs child is the greatest gift of all, which the Baileys know from experience. When Grandma Bailey saw Carlton's picture for the first time, she gripped Laura’s arm and said, "I've got goose bumps!" as tears welled up in her eyes. She and Grandpa knew that Carlton belonged with the family too. Grandma was reminded of Michael, who was also adopted, when he was little from Carlton’s picture. The Baileys look forward to giving Carlton all the opportunities to help him have the most fulfilling life possible. To them, his disability is minor and they are eager to help him learn to walk. In fact, Laura has already placed Carlton on a waiting list for equine therapy (therapeutic horseback riding) where Tyler rides weekly, so he can get started right away when he comes home. The Baileys are working hard at fundraising, so Carlton's adoption can happen quickly. He is scheduled to be placed in an institution as soon as he is discharged from the hospital where he currently recovering from surgery. The Baileys realize that this would be horribly traumatizing for Carlton and they are worried sick about him, so they are doing everything they can to raise the funds as fast as possible. They want nothing more than to bring their son home and bring him home without any memory of any scary institutions. They are very hopeful that their fundraising efforts will pay off quickly for Carlton’s sake. He deserves parents who will adore him …and the Baileys already do!
1/10/12—HOME STUDY UPDATE IN PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://www.savingkhariton-com.webs.com
When Jon & Katie married in 2005, they knew that adoption would be a special part of growing their family. God had laid this calling on their hearts at different points in life. Katie was just a girl herself with some significant people in her life through the blessing of adoption, and thus a seed was planted. Jon became involved In Children’s Ministry at the church where he met Katie; this is also where God began working in his heart on behalf of orphans. Fast forward 6 years & one beautiful biological daughter later, and this pair knew that God’s timing for their adoption had finally come! Having spent the entirety of their marriage researching international adoption, they were confident in choosing Russia. Little did they know that God had a little surprise in store. Through a series of seemingly random events, He led them to Reece’s Rainbow & gave them a strong desire to advocate for the children of this ministry. After all, these children are the “least of these”, and Jon & Katie’s hearts cried out for them. Within days of finding RR, Katie saw “Alissa” & was instantly smitten. What began as advocating soon grew into something much more, and they knew their world would never be the same—Praise God! Now Jon & Katie are praying earnestly & preparing eagerly to bring home their little lovie with designer genes, and they couldn’t be more grateful that God’s writing this beautiful story just for them!
“He has showed you, O man, what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.” -Micah 6:8
12/9/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Madison family's adoption journey on their blog
Todd and Susan have been caring for their own biological special needs daughter (Amanda) for over 15 years. In 1996 Amanda was born with hydrocephalus and cerebral palsy. Amanda also has severe mental delays. They have a total of three biological children and one grandchild. Todd and Susan have been looking to adopt a healthy child locally for two years but in November of 2011 that changed when Susan received a complimentary issue of a homeschool magazine. As Susan flipped through the pages, she saw an advertisement for Reece's Rainbow. Since they had a heart for adoption, Susan decided she would go to the website and sign up for the Angel Tree program and pray for the children. She started looking under children marked for "available to large families". About six children down was little Makayla. Susan's heart melted when she saw this beautiful little girl who looked like she could be the biological sister of her own daughter with special needs. Not only did Makayla look like her own Amanda but Makayla's medical problems were similar as well. Though knowing the cost of international adoption, Susan prayed for Makayla and scrolled on down the page. But Susan's heart began to cry out for Makayla and she scrolled back up to Makayla's picture. Susan couldn't imagine her own Amanda standing alone in a crib without a mommy or daddy to hug or hold her so she actually closed out the website and walked away. It was very hard on her heart. As Susan thought about Makayla she prayed and prayed asking for God to reveal His will. That evening Susan decided to present Makayla to her husband Todd. Since they had planned on a local adoption that would cost little to nothing and a healthy child, Susan wasn't sure how Todd would react. Todd went into shock! Lol! Todd searched the Bible for answers and they even had a meeting with their Pastor. After much prayer and studying of God's word they decided it was God's will for them to adopt Makayla. Todd and Susan are very thankful to God for His amazing provisions and opening of doors to help them on their journey to bringing Makayla home.
1/10/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://afamilyformakayla.blogspot.com
Michael and Kathy were married in 2000 and live in central Alabama. They began their lives together as an unconventional family. Kathy had a 4-1/2 year old daughter, Kayla (now 17) when they first met. A year and a half later, Michael had a six-year-old step-daughter. They were blessed with three more children, Madelyn (8), Nicholas (6) and Benjamin (3). Both Michael and Kathy felt their family was complete after the birth of their son Benjamin, but God’s plans for them proved to be to the contrary. After witnessing close friends of theirs adopt two beautiful children from Ukraine through Reece’s Rainbow in 2011, both Michael and Kathy were inspired. Inspired, but in no way sold on the idea that adoption was in their future. They were more in awe and admiration at the strength, love and faith of their friends. Both Michael and Kathy have been readers and supporters of Reece’s Rainbow for well over a year and had often wondered how anyone could look at all of those precious children in need and somehow pick ONE. And then it happened.
They both feel incredibly blessed not just to have such clarity of purpose, but to have both found their relationship with Christ strengthened in a way they never before knew to be possible.
2/7/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Wiehl family's adoption journey on their blog http://www.wiehloffaith.blogspot.com/
Gina’s dream of becoming a licensed Clinical Social Worker recently became a reality and she is so excited to begin making her dream of becoming a mother a reality as well! She did some work with the Utah AIDS Foundation earlier in life, never dreaming that in the future her heart would be called to adopt a child with HIV. She was not planning on starting her family just yet, but she saw little Evie’s photo and realized immediately that God had a plan that was much grander than anything she could imagine on her own. She is now acting in faith and doing everything she can to bring Evie home to her forever family. This child is already cherished and has a place in so many people’s hearts. Just as Gina thought her education was complete, she’s finding that her REAL education is probably just beginning!
1/9/2012—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Jerry and Jessica Bennett fell in love at first date nine years ago. Eleven short months later they were married and preparing to start a family. They soon discovered they would struggle with infertility for two and a half years before they were blessed with their first child. When she was just over a year old, the Bennetts were surprised to learn they were pregnant again! A son was born a few weeks before their daughter's second birthday. Now ages five and three they are best friends and the light of their parents’ lives.
During the time before their first was born, Jerry and Jessica considered the possibility of adoption. Years later, that seed of an idea has grown and blossomed and is now a reality. After viewing photos on the Reece’s Rainbow website, Jerry and Jessica fell in love with a boy named Jonas (meant to be, eh?). His eyes and smile captured their hearts. When Jessica told her children of the journey on which they would embark, Julianna’s eyes lit up. She jumped for joy and told her mother, “Another little brother? Now I am going to be a REALLY big sister!” The children now ask daily if Jonas is on the airplane yet and when will he be here.
This family that loves to laugh can’t wait to welcome Jonas home.
1/3/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at the-j-bennett-family.blogspot.com
Paul and Michelle met his sophomore year at bible college and three years later got married in August of 1994. The first year of marriage was blessed with finishing college and soothing the cries of Kersten, she kept them very busy and happy. Nineteen months later the household was blessed with another little girl named Kelsee, she was the little helper that was needed. Life was filled with laughter, crying, joy and learning, it also seemed to be racing by and all seemed as though it was planned until the call was awakened in their hearts. The call to add another addition to the Mosley family was heard and prayerfully will be answered when Artem becomes what was intended for him to be. Paul and Michelle have taken the time to listen to God and be prepared. The girls were taught at an early age that we are all God’s children and some of us need more help than others, therefore if called to action be faithful in doing so. The call was heard and action is taken with the hearts united and dreams inspired, all the love, support and prayers God will open the doors for Artem to enjoy his sisters’ cueing and laughter and dad and mom’s love and instruction.
12/20/11—HOMESTUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Mosley family's adoption journey on their blog at www.artemshouse.blogspot.com
Justine Foster has always had a heart for orphans. When she got married in 1998 she and her husband Michael planned on having a large family which would include both birth children and adopted children. Justine was pregnant with their second child when Michael died quite suddenly in 2003. When he died, Justine thought that her dream of a large family had died too, but God had other plans. After going through her own grief process and finally becoming truly content with the two wonderful children God had blessed her with, God showed Justine that He wasn't finished building her family. In January 2010 Justine traveled to Hong Kong to adopt a nine-year-old boy with Down syndrome. Even while in process with her recent adoption, Justine knew that she would be adding more children to the family. In 2011, Justine became a licensed foster parent and learned what she had suspected all along: she loves being the mom of 4, 5, and even 6 children. Justine really thought that her next child would come through the USA foster care system, but God surprised her again and led her straight to Rosa. Justine and all three of her children are excited about this new adventure and are so looking forward to having this sweet little one come home.
12/30/11—HOMESTUDY UPDATE in PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://transformationbytheword.blogspot.com/
UPDATE: The Willis family will also be bringing home Abigail!
Brandon and Jennifer met in 2005 while working at a national retail chain – they became friends and soon after started dating. 3 years later, on the hottest day of the year, they were married! Even while dating, they both talked about how wonderful it would be to adopt someday, to be able to provide a loving home for a child who needs it desperately! Neither one knew, exactly how that would play out in their lives, but it has always been on their hearts. Now, Brandon works in IT for a large software company and Jennifer is an elementary music and art teacher for a small Christian school.
Brandon and Jennifer decided after 3 years of marriage it was time to begin their family – after suffering a miscarriage, that was likely due to something “chromosomal”, the idea of adoption was brought to the forefront of their minds and hearts once again.
In the summer of 2011, Jennifer found Reece’s Rainbow – and her heart began to break for the sweet children listed on the website. She began reading blog after blog, and was completely smitten. Jennifer showed the website to Brandon, and his response was a resounding “Let’s do it!” Jennifer didn’t find it coincidence that the children who had stolen her heart, have been blessed with an extra chromosome – after losing their first pregnancy to a chromosomal abnormality. God certainly works in amazing ways!
The Willis’ are excited to bring Emilie home – she has an amazing family waiting to welcome her, and Brandon & Jennifer can’t wait to share life with their sweet girl!
12/19/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Willis family's adoption journey on their blog http://jenniferloveslobsters.blogspot.com
Rob and Deanna Sader had their first child in November, 2006. Their daughter, Ragen, was born with Down syndrome and later to be diagnosed with autism. Little did they know that this child would bring such joy and happiness into their lives. So much so that when Deanna stumbled upon the Reece's Rainbow organization, she and Rob found themselves praying for almost 2 years about adding another angel to their small, loving family. Little Lucy, 3 years old from the Ukraine and also has Down syndrome, joined their little family in July 2011. A few months later as things seem to be settling down from the adjustment of another child joining their family, Deanna felt the tug to venture down the road again. They both thought that it was too soon, but all the signs and answered prayers pointed toward going through the process again. Deanna saw Charity on the Reece's Rainbow site very soon after they had already committed to Lucy. She always had a love for Charity and thought that if there was ever the opportunity to adopt again and if she were available, she would hopefully become part of their family. On Christmas Day, the decision to move forward to bring Charity home was finally made. And now prayerfully, they will soon become a family of 5.
12/27/11—HOMESTUDY IN PROGRESS
David and Priscilla have been married for almost 6 years. They have two sons who are 8 years old and 2 years old. Special needs adoption has always been very close to their hearts for several reasons. David has always had a special place in his heart for people with downs syndrome, and has worked closely with March of Dimes for several years. Priscilla was adopted into a home when she was 9 days old where she became the baby sister to a sweet boy who was 6 years old and had severe developmental delays. Jeffrey, her big brother, was blind, deaf, tube fed, never learned to sit unassisted, or even roll over, but boy was he loved! She looked up to her brother, he was her hero. When Jeffrey was 10 years old he passed away, but his imprint has remained on his baby sister’s heart her whole life through. When Priscilla was 20 years old she got her CNA license and took a job at a home for adults with development disabilities where she and one other staff member were completely responsible for the care of 12 adult women with differing diagnoses, most being downs syndrome. She fell in love with each of her residents and during her 3 years of working with them side by side, she made a promise to herself that somehow, some way, she would dedicate her life to people with special needs. During this time she had met her future husband, had a baby, and settled into married life. Life threw them a curve ball that relocated them from Chicago, IL to Jackson, TN…talk about a culture shock! Shortly after this move they decided to have another baby, and things just weren’t working out. After a few years of trying, and several miscarriages, they thought maybe it was God’s will for them to adopt, and in the spring of 2009 they found Reece’s Rainbow. They fell in love with all of the precious faces, and decided that they would adopt, but as fate would have it, they found out 2 weeks later that they were pregnant! They’re son was born in December 2009 but they didn’t feel as though their family was complete yet. Reece’s Rainbow was still tugging at their heart strings. So, in November of 2011, shortly before their sons 2nd birthday, they decided to expand their family once again. This time there would be no doctors, no temp taking, and no fertility drugs. They immediately logged on to Reece’s Rainbow, and they immediately spotted the sweet angel that God had selected as their daughter. Sweet Xenia was born in March of 2009 (one month before David and Priscilla first learned about Reece’s Rainbow!) and to say that they fell in love with her would be an understatement. Their boys fell head over heels in love with her too! They prayed, they prayed A LOT for guidance, for wisdom, for courage, and strength! They came to the conclusion that God wanted them to adopt this precious angel, so they contacted Andrea, and the rest is history! They are currently awaiting their home study date and are so excited to be joining the Reece’s Rainbow family!
12/22/11—HOMESTUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://love–conquers–all.blogspot.com
Charles and Alexis Wesley have been married seven years. They have one awesome four-year-old daughter, Laelia, who begs them daily for a brother from “the baby hospital.” For the last year, this family of three has been praying at bedtime for one special little guy who Reece’s Rainbow named “Joel.” The couple started doing a fundraiser for Joel, and Alexis was invited to co-author a blog for orphaned kids with arthrogryposis (AMC) called arthrogryposisadoption.blogspot.com where Joel is featured. Laelia even started to save all her change in a toy safe devoted to Joel. They advocated for Joel and prayed for him, but did not feel they could handle an adoption. This did not stop Alexis from falling in love with the little guy or bugging the Reece’s Rainbow staff about him every few months (for research purposes for the blog *cough*). Charles was very hesitant about adoption, but after some calculating, he agreed that they could handle special needs adoption. It did not take one epiphany to decide on Joel, but millions of small nudges and pieces falling into place over the last year. But the deciding factor came when they discovered that Joel did not suffer from seizures—a fear sprouting from Joel’s “convulsive disorder” diagnosis and something they had been actively praying about. Then it became very clear that they could not only handle adding him to their family, but they would LOVE to! After meeting many former Reece’s Rainbow kids with AMC through amcsupport.org as well as at Shriners Hospital for Children in Philadelphia it became clear to the Wesley family that these are some of the best kids on earth. Now instead of begging God to send Joel a family, the Wesleys get to be that family!
“I have found that there are three stages in every great work of God: first, it is impossible, then it is difficult, then it is done.” ~Hudson Taylor
12/21/11—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Wesley family's adoption journey on their blog http://gettingawesleyinedgewise.blogspot.com/
The Barth Family is so excited about being Olga’s forever family! They have four children. Their son is 17 and their daughters are 15, 13, and 11. Katie always dreamed of continuing to grow their family and had a desire to do that through adoption. Randy also had a heart and a passion for the orphans and lonely children, but had concerns about how that would ever be possible with already having four children at home. Time and finances were always on short supply and he worried that there wouldn’t be enough of either to go around if their family grew even larger. Over the years, adoption became something that their children talked about often and they also had the desire to help a child in need. The Barth Family has seen many families forever changed for the better through adoption and were so touched by the testimonies of those that walked through the journey. Randy began to soften to the idea of adopting and as he prayed about it and learned more about it, he was surrounded by talk of adoption-it was literally everywhere he went! God wouldn’t let him get away from it and suddenly he didn’t want to-he wanted to be a part of it. So, their family began the journey by praying together about where God would use them and who He would place in their lives. After a few months of praying, they really felt as though they were being led to adopt domestically and began the application process. Now, as all adoption processes, it did not really go as they had planned and wasn’t going as smoothly as they had expected-they were waiting to hear back on several items from the State of Kansas. They were a little frustrated, but willing to wait. While waiting, Olga’s picture came to them through a friend of a friend. It was asking for prayers to find this little girl a home because she would be turning four and would be sent to the institution at that point. When they opened the email and photo, they were stunned because she looked so much like their other four child, especially their oldest son. Randy and Katie couldn’t get her out of their mind, but weren’t really thinking she was for them because that wasn’t the direction they were heading. However, they shared her picture and story with their children the next day and asked them all to pray for a family for her throughout the day. As the children came home from school that day, they all had the same response, “She is supposed to be our child-she belongs here with us. We’re her family!” For the first time in the journey and after looking at hundreds and hundreds of pictures, they were all on the same page-they all wanted to bring Olga home to their family. They spent the weekend praying for her and trying to gather all of the information that they could about her. The more they learned, the more they fell in love with her. While they were unsure about her medical prognosis with a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy, they knew that in an institution, she had no hope for a future, but that with the love of a family and the greatness of God, nothing is impossible and that there are no limits to what she might be able to do. The way all of the pieces fell into place in such a short period of time, they knew that this was where God was leading them and they would definitely be obedient and say “Yes!” They are trying to get their paperwork done as quickly as possible in hopes of keeping Olga at the orphanage until they can bring her home. Their eyes have been opened and their lives already forever changed just through a few weeks of this journey with Olga and they know there is so much more excitement in store for them. They are trusting God and moving forward!
12/21/11—HOMESTUDY IN PROGRESS
Brad and Jonana have been married for 14 years. Brad is a systems engineer for a financial services company, and Jonana is a stay-at-home mom. They have two biological children, a boy and a girl. Matthew is the oldest, and he was born in 2001. He is all boy and plays hard and loves to be outside. Gracie is the little sister who was born in 2006. She is all girl, and loves to sing and dance. While Brad and Jonana thought their family was complete with two children, God began to show them that they indeed need to add a special needs child to their family. God laid sweet little Albina on their hearts, and they fell in love with her. When they made their prayerful decision known to their children, God had already been working in that also. Matthew and Gracie were so excited, and cannot wait to see their new sister come home.
2/17/12—HOME STUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the Jolly family's adoption journey on their blog at http://calledyoubyname.blogspot.com/
