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Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome... |
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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.
Adam and Amy have been married over eighteen years and are the parents of ten children. Seven of their children joined their family through the miracle of adoption, three of whom they found listed on Reece’s Rainbow. This time, the Boroughs are adopting a daughter from Bulgaria! Madeline is six years old and has Down syndrome, like four of her future siblings. The entire family is very excited to bring Maddie home! The Boroughs Family appreciates your prayers and financial support.
4/26/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the Boroughs family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://www.justamomofseven.blogspot.com
Jason and Lori Fields met in the fall of 2002, when Lori began attending Hillcrest Baptist Church in Cedar Hill. TX. They began to connect as friends while singing in the choir at the Billy Graham Crusade. The theme of the crusade was, “God knows how it may change your life” and boy was this true for them! Lori endured a difficult divorce over the next few months and Jason was right there to encourage and support her. The two began to date exclusively and became engaged on October 17th 2004 at Texas Stadium, were the Billy Graham Crusade was held! They were married on June 24th 2005.
Jason and Lori both accepted Christ in their teenage years and starting out their marriage, knew they wanted to be open to follow God’s call on their lives, wherever that may take them. Lori’s parents spent their teenage years at Buckner Baptist Children’s home and her parents were married right out of high school. Due to that, she has always felt connected to the foster/adoption world. Lori experienced fertility issues in her first marriage and was not sure if they would be able to conceive and they began to research foster/adoption opportunities. God surprised and blessed them when they found out they were pregnant their very first married Christmas in 2005. Their son, James Curtis was born in 2006.
They knew the wanted to continue to grow their family and after their son was born, they began to try for another baby. God used this time in their lives to teach them what it really looked like to live lives of obedience. All of 2007 and much of 2008 came and went, without that positive pregnancy test. Lori felt God spoke to her in October 2008 and told her to give away all her maternity clothes, as an act of obedience. Although this was a very difficult thing to do, Lori gave them away….and the very next weekend they found out they were pregnant with precious Audrey Grace!
During her pregnancy, Lori began to follow Angie Smith’s blog, which is now located at www.angiesmithonline.com. She began to grow deeper in her walk with Christ, reading how Angie shared her experiences while carrying her sweet baby girl, Audrey, who would be born to live a few short hours, but touch the lives of a tremendous amount of people. Jason and Lori chose to name their daughter Audrey in honor of this season of spiritual growth in their lives.
Through blog reading, Lori was introduced to Reece’s Rainbow and began to feel God’s call to advocate for the special needs orphans in Eastern Europe. Jason and Lori knew they felt God calling them to be involved in orphan care in some way, but were not fully certain what that would look like. They were blessed with baby #3, Madelyn Rose in June of 2011.
During Christmas/New Years 2011, their pastor began to preach on topics that highlighted adoption and sharing details about their own adoption experience of their youngest child. In this time Jason and Lori knew that they were hearing God begin to shape and direct the call for adoption on their lives. In that same time, Adeye on her blog www.nogreaterjoymom.com was advocating for high risk orphans that needed families immediately. Jason and Lori began to pray and seek God’s will for them in an International Special Needs Adoption. They inquired on a specific child that turned out to have such significant medical needs, they knew they would not be able to meet them and they were heartbroken. But, God….but God himself used this experience to solidify the call on their lives to become adoptive parents of a child with special needs.
The Fields Family would ask that you partner with them in prayer and if possible in finances. They have stepped out in faith, knowing that God will bring what is needed in order to fulfill his call, please prayerfully consider joining them in their efforts to bring their precious child home. “17 Thank God! Once you were slaves of sin, but now you wholeheartedly obey this teaching we have given you. “Romans 6:17
4/26/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://obedienthearts.blogspot.com
Kelly and Ashley Simmons have been married for a little over two years and are the proud anut and uncle of five rambunctious boys and two sweet girls. They both agree wholeheartedly that children are a joy and blessing, and have been praying for children of their own for quite a while. Adoption has always been on their hearts and they are excited that the Lord has given them direction in pursuing their first child.
An evening that they were having dinner with very good friends (and mentors) who have been down the adoption road a few times before, they were shown a picture of a little boy. Leo is a healthy and beautiful baby boy who is deaf. After much praying, the Lord has led them to pursue the adoption of little Leo. They are working very hard to get all the paperwork, travel plans, sign language training, and financial provision so that they can bring their son home soon. This process is having to go as quick as possible, and God has already moved mountains. They are waiting expectantly and believing what some dear friends always say, “What God orders, He pays for!”
4/25/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://www.simmonsfamilyjourney.blogspot.com/
Paul and Ashlee met when Paul was playing in a Christian band and Ashlee went to his concert. He noticed her right away because she looked like a farmer in her brown overalls and it was a punk concert. It was kinda love at first site. They were married 14 months later. They have been married 12 years. Ashlee has always had a heart for adoption being a former foster child, but Paul wasn’t always so sure. They prayed. After 4 biological girls God called them to their first son. Noah was 3 months old when they got him. He has Trisomy 8 a very rare genetic disorder. Then Paul surprised everyone and said when he saw “Mickey” he knew Mickey was his son. They started the process to adopt Mickey. Ashlee then saw “Shawn” and knew he was to be theirs too. All the kids are very excited to be getting 2 new brothers. Noah can not wait to have a few more on his side!!
4/24/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://continuingourjourney.blogspot.com/
Mike and Kelly have been married for almost twenty years and have four biological children. Their youngest daughter was born with Down syndrome almost five years ago. In 2009, Kelly came across a blog that described the plight of abandoned orphans with Down Syndrome in Eastern European countries. The blog included a link to Reece’s Rainbow. After spending hours of reading through the web site (and shedding numerous tears!) Kelly and their oldest daughter Jesslyn signed up to be prayer warriors. It was not the right time for Mike and Kelly to adopt back then. However, the issue never permanently left Kelly’s heart. Three years and several military moves later, God began nagging at Kelly’s heart and directing her once again to Reece’s Rainbow. She and Mike tried to commit to two different boys at different times during the past year, but each time another family got there first! Now they realize who God was trying to show them from the beginning and what Mike had been secretly hoping for… another little girl! One night, they both separately scrolled through the faces of waiting children and felt God drawing them to the same little girl.. unbeknownst to each other!! They decided to step out in faith and trust God to lead them on this journey towards bringing sweet little Natalie home. The LeBu siblings can’t wait to meet their new little sister and are anxious to welcome her into the family!
4/23/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at branchesandthevine.blogspot.com/
The Gamblin family loves to hug.
hug \ˈhəg\ verb.
To clasp or hold closely, especially in the arms, as in affection; embrace.
Neil, Dana and their three kids laugh and hug a lot! This Texas man met his Colorado wife-to-be when they were both working in New York City (go figure)! Little did they know when they went on their first date what God had in store for their lives together. Ultimately Neil and Dana left New York so that Neil could pursue seminary studies and Dana could pursue graduate school in Saint Louis, Missouri. They have been blessed with three biological children: Remington (7), Karis (4), Jameson (7 months) and a tank full of resilient fish. Fifteen years after that first date they are excited to be growing their family through adoption.
Ever since Dana lived in South East Asia as a teenager and visited an orphanage in Vietnam she has dreamt of adopting a child, particularly a special needs child. As a couple, Neil and Dana’s interest in adoption has been molded foundationally through the deep peace and assurance of knowing that they themselves are adopted children of God. Understanding that God loves and pursues them even when they are unlovable moves them boldly into the realm of adoption. They are passionate about loving and pursuing those who may not always be considered beautiful in the world’s eyes but who are deeply beautiful in God’s eyes. Although Neil and Dana originally planned on adopting a child with Down ’s syndrome their searching on Reece’s Rainbow led them to sweet Angelica. For a family that loves to hug what better addition than a child whose arms will teach them a new way to embrace?
Please pray for Angelica and for the Gamblin family as they look forward to her arrival. Pray that as Angelica waits in her Russian baby house she will feel the Father’s warm embrace and be given the assurance that she will soon be brought home to the loving arms of her true family.
4/18/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://www.reflectionsofsplendor.blogspot.com/
Jason and Lisa have been happily married for 18 years. They are the proud parents of 3 wonderful boys. Both of them agree that children are a blessing and a full house is a happy house! Their journey toward special needs adoption began with the birth of their second son who was diagnosed with autism. His challenges and triumphs have shown them that special needs children are not a burden, but a joy and a blessing.
In 2009, Lisa began a friendship with a family who was in the process of adopting a little girl with Down syndrome via international adoption. Over time, she met more adopting families and began advocating for these special children herself. During this time, Jason began learning more and more about these children and the people who were dedicated to helping them find homes.
Then one day in 2011 it happened. Lisa saw a photo on a blog about a tiny girl who desperately needed a home. Lisa thought to herself “that could be my daughter”. After much soul-searching and discussion with Jason, they decided to pursue an international adoption of their own. They decided to adopt Carissa and make her a part of the Matthews clan – a beloved little sister for 3 little boys who are ready to welcome her home.
4/17/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://threelittlebirdsplusonemore.blogspot.com/
Meet the Pitchers. Nathan and Julie met in college and married young, nearly fifteen years ago. They have been blessed with five energetic, happy and healthy biological children ranging in ages from 13 to 2. Adopting was not a part of their life plan. But there is no such thing as coincidence. Lifelong friends beginning the process of adopting a special needs child themselves, contacted Julie for some professional help, and planted a seed. Julie stumbled across the picture of sweet “Claire” on the Reece’s Rainbow website, after being directed there by her friend . When Nate got home that night Julie directed him to the website and told him to just take a look. Within a few minutes he asked her if she’d seen “Claire 26 HA”. They were separately, and immediately, drawn to the same child who looked like she belonged to them already. Still having no information about who this child was, or where she was, they began to realize something changing within them.
The next several weeks were filled with many prayers and many tears. Many times each day they’d open the computer just to look at her picture. But how could they manage this? The answer to this question still eludes them. But there is one thing the Pitchers are very much aware of: God placed this child in front of them. He challenged them and blessed them with quiet moments of assurance that somehow…by His grace alone, she WILL join their family. Each week as they meet for family home evening they chart updated lists of ‘things we’re going to teach “Claire” for the first time’. Her first trip to McDonalds. Her first sled ride. Her first time to a pool. Her first family movie night. These all have made the list. Every single person is anxiously waiting for her to come home. God indeed works in mysterious ways. And Nathan and Julie are placing their trust in Him that “Claire” will be home, soon.
4/16/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://pitcherperfect.blogspot.com
Jenni and Josh Johnston met in 2004, while both serving in the military. They quickly got married and began building a family. After giving birth to two children they adopted a little boy from Ethiopia. After Ethiopia, Jenni and Josh learned about the HIV/AIDS epidemic and how it was affecting the orphan crisis. It was while volunteering for Project HOPEFUL that Jenni first saw Angelica. She knew that was her daughter! After 11 months of praying, crying, advocating, and fund-raising for her, Jenni and Josh decided it was time to start the adoption process. They are stepping out in faith and trusting that God will provide the resources to bring their Russian princess home.
4/14/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Dale and Kate Hogeland have 5 children. They brought one of their children home from Eastern Europe in February of 2012. They had gone to bring home 2 little ones, but due to changes in the girls’ country they could only bring home one of their children. So only 6 weeks after coming home, they are starting the journey back for their other daughter. It was excruciating leaving Mayah behind and the Hogeland’s long for their family to be complete. Fundraising for a second adoption so soon after coming home is very daunting. Every penny is greatly appreciated. They are very thankful for everyone’s support.
4/13/12—HOMESTUDY UPDATE IN PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.6littlehogelands.blogspot.
Michael and Heather have been married for 7 years. They have two biological children. In 2008, Heather started hinting to Michael that she wanted to adopt but Michael had many misconceptions of adoption (like only people who cant have children adopt). So, Heather prayed and hinted A LOT that she wanted more children and she wanted them through adoption. You see, Heather had wanted to adopt children longer then she could remember. She wanted a child from every continent if God would allow her.
Heather prayed daily that God would open Michael’s heart to adoption. And then God did something amazing. He put families who had adopted in Michael’s path. He saw what adoption looked like, which was nothing like he thought. He saw children who had possibilities because they had a family that loved them.
Then one night, while surfing the internet, Heather got on RR because she was looking at the little girl a friend was in the process of adopting. Now, Heather had been on RR before off and on but she tried not to get on it because all she wanted to do was adopt them all. Well this night she got on it again. That night she was also communicating on Facebook with Michael (because of Michael not being in the US). Heather sent him a message. It read “What do you think of this little girl?”.
Heather then went into shock mode that quickly changed into “git er done” mode. She started asking around and finding out what to do and with in two weeks they had an application into a home study agency and was ready to commit to a placing agency.
Michael and Heather know that this is God’s will. They are ready to add to their family (or as Heather puts it, more little people to love on).
4/13/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://accordingtohisglory.blogspot.com
Cathy had been cruising RR for almost a year looking at all the sweet babies that needed Mommas. But Tim seemed complacent at best. Then Cathy happened to click on the tab for Newly Listed children. There was Duncan. Cathy has some experience with Cerebral Palsy through a family member. So as she read Duncan’s story, she became angrier and angrier that this bright boy could face a mental institution . She grabbed Tim and said “Read that!” To her complete amazement he responded by asking what the first step was to adoption!
They have three boys at home already and feel that Duncan will fit right in. They have a very short window to make this adoption happen for Duncan before he “ages out” of the system.
God has already answered many prayers (some that they didn’t even know they had!) surrounding this adoption. Please pray that Duncan can join the “Daughton Gang” very soon!
4/10/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://deliveringduncan.blogspot.com
Jim and Tisha Powell have been married for fifteen years and are the parents of eight beautiful girls.
God opened Jim’s heart to the possibility of adoption through the faithful, compassionate reporting of World Magazine. For years, it has featured families that have received children into their homes in the name of Christ. Having planted this seed, God brought it to fruition some months ago while Jim was reading the revised edition of John Piper’s Desiring God. Jim had picked up this book because the Spirit had convicted him about his underwhelming sense of joy, and he found much wisdom in its pages. But in the chapter on choosing suffering, Jim found what seemed to be a calling. Piper writes: “We do not choose suffering simply because we are told to, but because the One who tells us to describes it as the path to everlasting joy. He beckons us into the obedience of suffering . . . to manifest, in childlike faith, the infinite preciousness of His all-satisfying promises.” Joy grows out of faith. Love is pursuing your joy in the joy of others. We choose to suffer as a way of pursuing our joy in God. Confronted with these truths, Jim felt called to step out in faith, set aside his fleshly craving for convenience, and–by the grace of God–rescue a child in desperate need of love.
During a date night several days later, he told Tisha that he believed God wanted them to adopt a special-needs child. At that point in time, Tisha had been perusing blogs about adoption experiences for a few months. This led her to Reece’s Rainbow. Jim had marked all this simply as a passing interest. So her reply not only took him by surprise but also served as a pleasant confirmation of God’s call: ever since her teenage years, Tisha had envisioned herself caring for a special-needs child!
The Powells are a military family living in the Washington, D.C. area. Trusting in God’s grace, they are excited about bringing home a new baby girl. “Misty’s” expectant sisters are ready to shower her with love … and in a house full of girls there is more than enough love to go around!
4/7/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://addingtoourblessings.
Charles and Eli (Elisabeth) met at church. In fact, she was a teacher in his religious education class and they married in 2009. Charles brought three children to the party, Jordan and Brianne, both young adults who are finding their own paths and 12 year old Shiloh who is making her way through 6th grade! One of their greatest wishes was to increase the family with biological children but when it became clear that was not to be they started looking at other options. They had just begun the process to become foster parents when Malcolm entered their lives.
One of Eli’s bridesmaids blogged about Reece’s Rainbow and posted Malcolm’s picture asking for donations to help these beautiful children find permanent homes. While Malcolm tugged at their heartstrings they felt they couldn’t possibly consider international adoption – the cost alone was insurmountable. But then someone showed them a video of Malcolm and Charles was sunk. This little boy had captured his heart.
Eli was a different matter because her head usually leads her heart; but her faith leads both. New friends and old friends came together and prayed for God to reveal His will. They were assured that He would provide a way for the Smiths to bring Malcolm home where he will be loved. She read another friend’s blog which quoted the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which said, in part:
“On coming into the world, man is not equipped with everything he needs for developing his bodily and spiritual life. He needs others. Differences appear tied to age, physical abilities, intellectual or moral aptitudes…. These differences belong to God’s plan, who wills that each receive what he needs from others, and that those endowed with particular “talents” share the benefits with those who need them.”
When she read that nothing was clearer than the fact that this little boy needed a home and that home was in Arizona with her family.
4/6/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://ourfamilysmith.blogspot.com/
Erik and Sara have been married for 12 years and are the proud parents of five biological children. In late 2011 Sara read the book Kisses from Katie by Katie Davis and began thinking seriously about the suffering of orphans and the responsibility of all Christians to care for these at-risk little ones. A few months later, Sara began reading about the fate of orphans with special needs in Eastern European countries and she thought God might be asking her to do something about this. Sara talked to Erik who looked at the waiting children on Reece’s Rainbow and said that while adopting one of these children was a good and noble thing to do, it was such an enormous responsibility that God would need to provide an “engraved invitation” before he would be convinced that it was right for the family. God provided just such an invitation, the very next day, and the Petersons began the process to adopt Martin a week later.
The Petersons live on a 21 acre farm north of Baltimore where they homeschool their children, raise chickens and ducks and tend raspberries and a vegetable garden.
4/3/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the Peterson family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://foxberryfarmalmanac.blogspot.com/
Michael and Lori have been together for 7 years. They have four children, all girls, Karma, Kassidee, Aiya, and Alaska, ages 11, 10, 4, and 20 months respectively. Alaska was born with Down Syndrome. She has changed the hearts of Michael and Lori for the better, and brought the love level of their family to a new high! Lori had mentioned to Michael before that she would like to bring another special angel into the family, but Michael did not feel it would be a good idea at the time. Several months later, Lori found herself looking through the children on the Reece’s Rainbow website, as she has done a few times before. She prayed that those children would find families, just as she had done before. Then she came to a picture that she stopped on, tears welled up and she blurted, “Oh, I am your Mama!” She knew that this little boy, Brock, belonged home with her family, and that God was calling on her to do so. She prayed for over a month about it, nervous to tell Michael, but he sensed something was wrong, and coaxed it out of her. To Lori’s surprise and absolute joy, Michael agreed that this was the right thing to do and that Brock should be home with them! God has sent them on this amazing journey together and they are looking forward to bringing their son home! The girls are looking forward to having a little brother as well!
4/2/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://throwingastarfish.blogspot.com/
Jason and Sylvia met in high school in 1998 and begin a relationship that neither of them knew at the time would become a union that would create a family that was meant to be. After dating 5 years, the two married in 2003 and have now been a couple for 13 years, 8 of which they have been married. When discussing children, it became apparent quickly that both Jason and Sylvia had a desire to adopt but knew they needed to finish college and come to a more stable point in their lives before they would set this dream into motion. For the next few years the couple focused on getting a home and completing college. In 2010, the couple decided it was time to begin a journey that would take them half way around the world to an Eastern European country to adopt a 20 month old baby girl with down syndrome, Gabriana “Gabby”. Both new upon adopting Gabby and seeing the joy she has brought to there home and the transformation she is made, that they would again one day want to adopt another child with down syndrome. The Middleton’s decided in 2011 to move from Kentucky to Tennessee where Jason now works for an agency in Tennessee that specializes in counseling and services for individuals with mental illness and substance abuse issues, while Sylvia is able to manage their local substance abuse and domestic violence counseling center from home while taking care of Gabby. Recently, Sylvia begin to think more and more of a little girl that shared a room in the orphanage with their sweet Gabby. This little girl and Gabby were the only two little girl’s in that particular groupa room in the orphanage with down syndrome and spent a lot of time together and even shared a crib. Jason and Sylvia were curious if after 16 months of being home, would Gabby remember her dear friend. When they showed her a picture, it was obvious that Gabby did remember the sweet face on the screen and begin to act sad. Jason and Sylvia knew when this happened they had to commit to doing whatever it took to bring the meant to be sisters back together. The couple are putting all of the efforts in to fundraising to make this adoption and reunion more than a dream but a reality. After being back only 16 months from adopting Gabby, any support you can graciously provide to them would be greatly appreciated and MUCH NEEDED.
4/1/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://journeytoreunitetwoangels.blogspot.com/
Joey and Karly have been happily married for almost 6 years. They met in 2003 when Karly moved to the US from Australia, and quickly became friends. They were married in 2006 and knew that it wouldn’t be long before they started having children. They knew they would also like to adopt someday. They have three beautiful girls. Kyah age 4, Savannah age 3 and Ava age 1. Karly gets hyperemsis when pregnant so pregnancy is tough, and with Ava there were many complications that made Joey start to consider that it might be too tough on Karly to have anymore children naturally. When Ava was born they discovered she had Down Syndrome. Also during the birth Karly was injured. They spent most of Ava’s first year discovering how beautiful life can be having a child with Down Syndrome, for Karly recovering from the injuries. They felt that after all the physical impact of Ava’s pregnancy and birth and a long recovery for Karly, that maybe God was saying it is time to adopt.
Karly found Reece’s Rainbow through reading other’s blogs and slowy began to feel that God was calling them to adopt a child with special needs. After discussing it with Joey and praying over it, they both agreed, it is God’s will. So here they are, looking to adopt and bring another sweet child with Down Syndrome into their family. They have so much love to give and share, and 3 big sisters that are thrilled to be welcoming a little brother. There are many friends and family that just can’t wait to love on this sweet little man.
3/31/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://theuplook.blogspot.com/
”This is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith.” 1 John 5:4
Scott and Chandres Pickett have been married for nine years, and always knew they would adopt someday. After having three children (Ayden-8, Elijah-6, and Sadie-almost 2), and with each pregnancy bringing more complications, Scott and Chandres knew they were done growing their family biologically.
They heard the story of a family in their church who were in the middle of adopting two boys through Reece’s Rainbow and, after going through their youngest daughter’s heart surgery, they realized they were ready to answer God’s call to care for the orphan, through adoption. After looking through photolisting after photolisting, Scott and Chandres saw a picture of their daughter, a 9 year old girl with Down syndrome in Eastern Europe. They committed to adopting Katrin immediately, taking a step in faith, praying that “the mountains [would] melt like wax before the Lord” (Psalm 97:5) as they fundraised for the adoption.
The Pickett family feels blessed to go through this great adventure in faith, and are eager to meet and bring home their daughter!
3/27/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://www.upcycledpurpose.blogspot.com/
The Duval family was already in process with Reece’s Rainbow to adopt a 6 year old boy. The subject had come up several times about adopting two children at once but Jim felt that it would be better to get one child home and then think about another child. In the meantime Sherrie had been advocating for Alexis hoping that she would find a family. From a contact that had met Alexis personally Sherrie knew that Alexis was an amazing young girl and a family would be blessed to have her for a daughter. The more Jim heard about Alexis the more he agreed that she would be an amazing daughter for some family. Finally, the Lord showed Jim that they were that family and Alexis was going to be their daughter. So they are in the beginning stages of the process to make a second trip this year, overseas, to bring home Alexis. Although, all the children are excited about having a new sister, Patience, the Duvals 9 year old, can’t wait to have a girl at home with her. So many preparations are being made aka shopping for pink, girly things while awaiting the necessary paperwork to be done.
3/26/12—HOME STUDY UPDATE IN PROGRESS
Follow the Duval family’s adoption journey on their blog at duvalquiver.blogspot.com
Rick and Suzanne have been married for 16 years and have three children, two biological and one adopted: Matthew 15, Megan 13, and Yesenia 3.
They came to know about the Ministry for Down syndrome children following another family from church adopting their son through Reece’s Rainbow.
Suzanne and their daughter Megan started praying for the children they saw on Reece’s to find their forever families. All of the children are so adorable and worthy of prayer, that is why they also joined the Prayer Warrior team for Reece’s (you should too). Matthew 19:14 But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” When they came upon the picture of Maya, they immediately knew something was different; God was speaking to their heart. After waiting a week or so, Suzanne spoke to Rick of what God had been saying to her; he was not so excited about the idea of adopting again. The previous adoption of their daughter had taken roughly two years. They both decided to seek further council from the Lord. A few days later the Lord had completely changed Rick’s heart.
After praying and seeking the Lord, Rick and Suzanne knew that Maya was their daughter from across the ocean. They can’t wait to see how the Lord will move to bring Maya home. The Warren’s ask friends and family and others reading this (or their blog) to pray for Maya and the process to bring her home.
3/21/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at rrwarrenchronicles.blogspot.com
Johnny and Amy Dasher have been married for 28 years. They have 11 biological children and one adopted child. Their eleventh child Jillian is five years old and she has Down syndrome. After she was born they have often wondered why the diagnosis of Down syndrome is taught to be such a fearful thing. Their journey with Down syndrome has been a joy!
Amy discovered Reece’s Rainbow in 2007 and the dream was set in place to adopt another child with the same diagnosis as Jillian. Jillian was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in 2008 so adoption was set aside while she went through treatment. By 2010 she was in remission and doing very well health-wise! In April of 2010 they began their first adoption journey. In June of 2011 they brought home a precious little girl named Josie from China. Josie had a heart defect that was repaired after they brought her home. In nine months the transformation they have watched has been incredible! The most amazing thing is watching Jillian and Josie’s relationship unfold! Adoption has been a wonderful experience and the Dasher’s are looking forward to going again and bringing home two little girls with Down syndrome. They would appreciate your prayers and financial support as they prepare to make the journey again!
3/8/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://anincrediblejourney-dashers.blogspot.com
Shayne and Carey were only dating six weeks before they got engaged and were married the following year in 2001. Carey had a miscarriage in 2003 and was devastated. They were fortunate to have five children together all in rapid succession. Gannon (7) was born on Carey’s birthday and started what would become a mission to fill their life with many children. Cullen (6) and Cecelia (4) were the next to arrive. In 2009, they found out that the daughter they were expecting had Down syndrome. They knew that their lives were changing with the addition of a fourth child. Shayne and Carey were surprised that life got so much better when Stefina (aka: Stefi -2 ½) came into this world. Declan (3 months), is the newest addition.
Two years ago, Carey found Reece’s Rainbow through her online support community and has been hopeful to find the next Doyle. On December 23, 2011 Carey and Shayne were shopping with Carey’s mother, when they saw another adoptive couple with two small boys from the Ukraine in their cart. Carey stopped in her tracks and initiated what would be a life changing conversation in the middle of a Sam’s Club! Five days later, Carey couldn’t stop thinking about Kate. She logged onto Reece’s Rainbow to look at the sweet girl realizing it was actually Kate’s birthday. The fact that she probably didn’t even know it was her birthday really upset Carey. She imagined the amazing life Kate would have being a Doyle. They weren’t expecting to be on this journey so soon after having a new baby but, they have come to realize that it’s not about them. It’s all about Kate! She has been in Carey’s heart for a very long time. With the addition of Kate & Dasha they can be certain that their next child will be just perfect!
2/29/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Geoff and Laura have been married for 6 years and have 3 little girls of their own. They have always wanted children and are over the moon for their girls. Their oldest is extremely sensitive and caring while their middle daughter tends to be outgoing yet shy at the same time. what drew them to Samuel is him having spina bifida like their youngest daughter. All of their girls have taught them so much about what life truly means but their youngest having to deal with the everyday challenges she faces that others take for granted is simply remarkable. Life is truly centered around their children and their success and enjoyment of life.
Several months ago Laura happened to stumble upon Reece’s Rainbow and Samuel. Laura and Geoff were immediately drawn to him. As a couple they feel that God has led them here to this time and this place in their life for a reason. Their family was ready to grow once again. The fact that he has spina bifida meant little but at the same time it meant so much. Seeing a child with the same condition as their daughter brought them to act upon the feelings of their heart.
2/28/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Joshua and Nakia met in Texas and were married in 2003. In 2006 their son was born and after much discussion they decided they would continue to grow their family through adoption. That discussion continued off and on until November 2011 when Nakia discovered the Reese’s Rainbow website. Nakia showed Joshua the website and together they decided that they would make one of these precious souls a part of their family. After countless hours of looking at the pictures on the website, they had narrowed their choice down to four little boys but could not make a final decision of which one would come home and be a part of their family. They asked their son who he would like to have as his brother. Over the next couple days he very enthusiastically chose the same little boy every time, a boy known as “Alexander”.
2/27/12—HOMESTUDY IN PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://windowtoourworld.blogspot.com/
Daniel and Abby Snyder live in Northwest Arkansas. They are involved in TEAMworks, an international therapy initiative group (www.teamworksukraine.com). While in Eastern Europe in April 2010 and October 2011, Abby met and advocated for Anastasia, or Nastia. Nastia is a precious little girl whose family felt they had to give up their rights to her because they could not meet her medical needs. Upon returning to the United States, Daniel and Abby began to pray for Nastia. They prayed for her health and that she would be adopted soon. During the process of advocating and praying for Nastia, Daniel and Abby began to feel led to adopt her.
After months of praying, Daniel and Abby felt that God led them to be Nastia's parents. They are currently completing their homestudy and necessary paperwork in order to adopt Nastia and bring her home. The full story of how God led them to adopt Nastia is here: http://danielandabbysoldhouse.blogspot.com/2012/01/we-have-news-very-long-post.html
2/13/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://danielandabbysoldhouse.blogspot.com
Patricia is a single mother dedicated to serving the Lord and her three children. Her two older daughters are off to college, and Ralphy is her 6 yrs old son. About three years ago, Ralphy, (at the short age of three), started telling mommy Patty “Mama, I am going to have a baby sister. Amelia is her name, and she is going to be born soon.” Patricia has always felt in her heart to adopt a baby girl, and Ralphy has always prayed to be the big brother. Now that Patricia had a name for her daughter, she knew this was the way God will show her who and where she is. The adoption search began, but for almost three years, Patricia & Ralphy could not find Amelia. It was on Sept 5, 2011 they came across Amelia’s photo on the Reece’s Rainbow website, and their hearts seemed to skip a beat. They could not believe their eyes! They were seeing Amelia’s photo for the first time! Patricia recognized her immediately as her daughter as she felt in her heart that God was whispering to her “This is your daughter Amelia.” Ralphy started jumping up and down of excitement! His baby sister had found them! Amelia is now 2 yrs old and is a special needs child. After much prayer and seeking confirmation with their pastors, friends and family, they have decided to bring Amelia home. They depend on God for provision, your prayers and financial contributions if you are able to do so. They are stepping out by Faith, as they know that God called Amelia by name to be part of this beautiful Christian family. “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine” Isaiah 43. Please help bring Amelia home to her forever family! God bless you.
1/30/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at http://bringamelia.blogspot.com
Jody Johnson is a single mother with three sons, one of which is living at home with her. She has had a heart for orphans in Russia, specifically, since she visited there as a child. She was raised in Alasska and her school had the first foreign exhange for students between the United States and the then U.S.S.R. After a very long wait and thoughtful prayer and consideration, they have settled on Oksana. She and her children believe that they are called by God to minister to orphans and through such ministering bring glory to God. Her oldest son says, “Having a family means more to me than anything and I cannot imagine not having that. I think we should share our family with someone who needs it …” Regarding special needs children, he says, “What kind of person would I be if I said, “You don’t deserve a family because you’re not perfect?” The Johnson family believes every person at one time or another has a special need an that we are called as Christians to minister to one another during those time. They know the road to adoption can be long and require great patience, but they are committed to the task and will follow as the Lord leads them. They appreciate your prayers and would be happy to have you follow along with them as they blog their way through the process. it is their prayer that throughout the process, God will open the hearts of those who may not know Him and cause them to want to know more about the Love that drives people to seek out and rescue orphan children the way that Jesus sought out and rescued us.
3/8/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://
Chet and Amanda met 3 years ago via the internet. When they met they instantly clicked and have been together every moment since. They enjoy going to see all that Missouri has to offer and they also have a menagerie of pets to keep them entertained. Amanda is a braillist for a living at the local elementary school while Chet works with HUD to provide a housing program for families on disability. Even before they met Chet and Amanda had a heart for missions and adoption. In 1993, and 1994 Amanda went to Hong Kong/China and Jamaica while Chet has been to Peru and Uganda. That said, after becoming foster parents recently, Amanda realized she has a real heart for the orphans of Eastern Europe. So when she came across Reece’s rainbow she was hooked!
Since God hasn’t blessed Amanda and Chet with Children yet they decided to pursue adoption. After the Braille Challenge 2010 (A spelling type bee for blind kids) Chet also felt that it would be ok to adopt children who were blind or with other special needs. Though both Chet and Amanda work in service jobs and they are not sure how they are going to they have decided to take a leap of faith and trust that God will help with the rest. Please consider giving financially to help with the many adoption expenses as they are civil servants to their community and church. Blind kids are often the last to be adopted and since Amanda is fluent in Braille and knows all the ins and outs, they feel this beautiful little girl is for them!
1/12/12—HOMESTUDY in PROGRESS
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at theresoneless.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
