Traveling Now
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Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome... |
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Dell, Gene & David’s Family
Jeff and Debbie are high school sweethearts who have been married 29 years. They have 11 children, 5 adopted through Reece’s Rainbow. They adopted Matthew and Michael in 2010, then Sarah and Sydney in 2011. While adopting Matthew and Michael, Jeff met the little boy who, for four years, was in the crib next to Michael. That little boy was listed as Kiril on RR. Jeff and Debbie signed up to be Kiril’s Prayer Warrior through RR. Then in 2013, they became his Angel Tree Warrior. After years of advocating and praying for Kiril, they clearly heard the Lord say, “Go get your son!” so they committed to adopt him.
Dell is another amazing child who has been on their hearts since the day he was listed, so they committed to adopt him as well. As fate would have it, Kiril’s region closed to adoption because of political unrest right after they committed to adopt him. Their hearts were utterly broken, but their determination did not waiver. They continued with the adoption and added Gene when he became available again. They prayed a miracle would happen for Kiril and they would be allowed to adopt him at some point. Well, God moved mountains in a mighty way and Jeff was allowed to adopt Kiril while in-country. Kiril just arrived home and is doing well. During visits at Dell and Gene’s orphanage, Jeff met a little boy who desperately needs a momma and papa. His name is David. After David was cleared for international adoption, Jeff and Debbie decided to add him to their adoption as well.
Thank you for your prayers and support as Jeff and Debbie work to complete this amazing journey to adopt these four precious children!
Update: Kiril is home (2014)!
9/8/14—APPT RECVD
TWO BOYS for the Johnson family — PA
Jody Johnson is a single mother with three sons. In 2011, she committed to adopt Oksana from Russia. God intervened in miraculous ways to bring her to the other side of the world to meet the little girl for which she would promise to return. Five months later, she was ready to return to court when Russia halted all adoptions to U.S. families. While she has not given up on Oksana and hopes to return for her as soon as she is given the opportunity, she knows there are others whose needs must be met in the meantime. Christians are called by God to minister to orphans and through such ministering bring glory to God. Because they are specially drawn to orphans who are difficult to place due to special needs, the Johnsons hope to touch the lives of those who have little chance to find the love of Christ and a family. Though abandoned and broken in our sin, God, the Father, sent His Son to take the punishment we deserved, that we may become His children. He loves us when we are most unlovable and through our weakness, He shows His strength.
“Adoption is a real-life illustration of the gospel. It shows us how God transforms spiritual orphans into family members. He changes our names, identities, and families by His grace. Orphan care is acts of mercy that flow from the heart of one who has been changed by the gospel.” Tony Merida, “Orphanology”
The Johnsons know from experience that 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. After inquiring with Oksana’s placing agency about other waiting children, Jody received and accepted a referral for a four year-old boy with some significant cognitive delays. About a week later, the agency mentioned an older boy, healthy, but difficult to place due to age. Having much experience with boys, she knew she needed to give this boy a home, too. To that end, now the adventure extends to another corner of Eastern Europe where God will make two special boys a part of their family. The Johnsons appreciate your prayers and would be happy to have you follow along with them as they blog their way through the process. Please pray that throughout this journey, 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.
2/6/15—FINAL TRIP FEB 2015
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at aservantinhousebeautiful.
CHANCE and CALLIE for the VanHalle family — NY
It’s only been 9 months since Angie and Jason brought their first daughter, Claudia, home after finding her on Reece’s Rainbow, but once again, they feel God calling them to abandon their plans, and to bring their son Chance home. Neither thought that they would be pursuing adoption again so soon after the first, but after seeking God’s will, and with the counsel of their close friends and family, they are ready to once again step out in faith.
Update, May 2014: Angie and Jason have felt God calling them towards older children since shortly after starting the adoption of Chance, and they made the decision to add Callie to their ongoing adoption after praying and seeking the council of friends and family.
Callie is going to be their oldest child (by almost 6 years!) and Angie and Jason are actually just barely old enough to be able to adopt her. They have high hopes that she will be a great big sister to Claudia and Chance, and look forward to seeing her thrive in a loving family. The VanHalles would greatly appreciate your prayers, and can’t wait to see God in action this time around.
1/8/15—TRAVELING MARCH 7
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at followingourcallingdaily.blogspot.com
BECKHAM for the Groen family — SD
Chad and Kayla have been together for 10 years, and just celebrated their 6th wedding anniversary. Kayla has and in home daycare, and Chad works for a local coal mining company. They have been blessed with 4 beautiful children. Bella is 11, and Chad adopted her when they got married. Asher is 7, Cylus is 4, and Peerson is almost 2.
Chad and Kayla always knew that they would adopt. A friend was in the process of adopting and added them to a group on facebook that had profiles of waiting kids. 6 months later they saw a 3 year old boy named Beckham that was beautiful. They knew he would get a family quickly, but every time they would see his picture, they couldn’t help but think he could be their son. He had a family committed to him, but something happened and he was listed as available again. Chad and Kayla talked about whether now was the right time to adopt. Beckham has untreated hydrocephalus, agnesis of the corpus callosum, and a cyst on his 3rd ventricle, so they had to make sure the care he needed would be available in their area. They got the confirmation that every month a team from mayo would be 45 minutes away, and wanted to take Beckham as a patient. This was the time, this was their son! He would finally have his forever family, and they would have the final piece of their puzzle.
2/2/15—TRAVELING FEBRUARY 13
ARMANDO for the Short family — OK
Margo is a Christian woman and family medicine doctor who desired to be a mother. God provided that opportunity in 2009 with her first adoption from Ethiopia. She now has three daughters adopted from Ethiopia, ages 9, 5, and 3. Her 3 year old has Down syndrome. By the grace of God and love of her family and ffriends, this little girl went from only being able to roll over, to being able to sit up, crawl, then walk, sign, and speak a few words, all within 1 year.
Margo and her daughters are excited to add a precious boy to their family!
12/29/14—COURT IS JANUARY 13, FINAL TRIP IN MARCH
KITT and CARRIE ANN for the Davis family — LA
As the years passed and many miles between them both had married other people and lost touch. In 1989 Denise’s husband Tim had passed away and a few years later while shopping once again they both crossed paths and fell back in love. With Gary being a single parent they raised 6 children who are now grown. During the years the Davis Family mission in Ukraine and brought medical supplies to orphanages.
During 22 years of marriage the Davis Family raised 4 children from Denise’s first marriage, two children from Gary’ first marriage and have 15 grandchildren they love. Through years of infertility treatments, IVF, several miscarriages, the loss of twins Gary and Denise decided to adopt. After studying adoption for 10 long years they decided on Ukraine. After visiting the many orphanages they knew in their hearts their children were waiting for them.
In May of 2001 they took a Leap of Faith and went independently to Ukraine. They compiled all their own paperwork and visited the National Adoption Center in Kiev.
They traveled to Odessa where they met their precious Makayla. At that time Makayla could barely walk nor could she talk. Makayla is now 16 years old dances and does not shut up. Makayla’s diagnoses are Beckweider Syndrome and NF1.
The Davis’s decided to return to Ukraine to adopt a child they met during a visit to an orphanage in Uzhgorod and they returned on May 2002 where they adopted their son Patrick. Patrick weighted less than 8 pounds at age 2 years and Patrick now age 14 years weighing almost 100 pounds. His diagnoses are Aspergers, Mild CP, Epilepsy and seizure disorders. Both children are beautiful and loving children which the Davis’ thank the Lord daily for his blessings.
As time passed they met Andrea the founder of Reeces Rainbow and viewed her site over and over. A few years later as much heart searching they decided to adopt a child Reeces Rainbow had listed. With their hearts for children with special needs they knew this was the organization to find their next child. As both their hearts lead them to travel to Bulgaria to adopt the most beautiful little girl curly headed, silly girl there was. And they decided to named her Chrissie after a dear friend’ daughter Chrissie that passed. And on May 2012 they brought home Chrissie from Bulgaria and their lives have never been the same.
With their hearts still in love with the many children in Bulgaria they returned to adopt Jake and Gennie in 2013. Both Gennie and Jake have cystic fibrosis and very malnourished. Shortly after their arrival home their precious baby girl Gennie has passed from CF complications and her small heart had failed. During this pass year their hearts have ached for their little daughter Gennie. As her bed sits filled with dolls and teddy bears they knew it was now time to adopt another little girl.
With three precious little Angels in Heaven they have led us back to go back to Eastern Europe and decided to chose another little girl off of Reeces Rainbow. With their being over 147 million orphans in our world our Lord has guided our family to this little girl to bring home. Please follow the Davis’s Adoption Blog and follow their journey in bringing home this precious little girl.
1/21/15—COURT IS FEB 2
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at bringinghomealittleangel.blogspot.com
TEMPERANCE for the Willock family — MD
Vanessa (Temperance)
Brad and Becky first met in 7th grade, their lockers were nearly side by side. Throughout middle and high school they became good friends and eventually on graduation day they started to date. They dated long distance through college and then married just after their college graduation in June in 1999.
In the past several years God has blessed the Willock family with 8 children, 5 boys and 3 girls. Their second son has a rare genetic disorder that limits his mobility but not his personality. In 2006 they were blessed with the opportunity to adopt their daughter who shares the same disorder as their son. Then in 2012 God once again blessed them with the addition of their youngest son through adoption.
This time the Willock’s are looking to adopt internationally and they girls (who are outnumbered 5 to 3) have requested they bring home a little girl and they are prepared to head halfway around the world to bring her home.
The Willock’s are trusting in God to open doors for this adoption as He did in the past and can’t wait to share the amazing miracles He works in this process.
1/9/15—TRAVELING JANUARY 30
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at willockadoption.blogspot.com
LAURENCE’s family — IL
We are so excited to have Laurence/Lance join our family. I have had a heart for orphans starting at a very young age. I currently enjoy working in the field of special education, and have a great schedule for raising a family. I went back to school to get my Masters in Social work to hopefully start a ministry for orphans/foster kids someday. Although I have these big dreams, for right now, I am using what God has given me in the present moment. I didn’t really plan to adopt overseas, mostly because of the huge expense. In fact, I got my foster care license so that I can adopt a child from foster care in this country. I guess God has other plans at this time, and I am trusting in Him to provide. Lance will join two brothers. My biological son is 8 years old and he is half-Chinese. Lance’s other soon-to-be brother joined us in June of 2013 through a program called Safe Families and will be with us long-term. We are all looking forward to meeting Lance and have enjoyed the pictures and stories from so many people who have already met him and love him.
2/16/15—TRAVEL APPROVAL RECVD, HOPE TO TRAVEL MARCH 4
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at lovinglancehome.blogspot.com
SAVANNAH for the Piatt family — CA
2015
Tami is a single mom to four beautiful girls. Her oldest, Suzanna, is grown and working as an engineer. Her daughter Elisa, adopted from Bulgaria and Lara, from China were joined by Mary, adopted in 2007, also from China. She thought her family was done but God had other plans and she knew she had another child waiting to come home. Over the last few years many children have touched her heart and she liked to think that she had prayed many children home. Last April, she saw Savannah and knew that this was her long awaited daughter. She prayed for many months that God would provide a way for her to bring her daughter home. God opened those doors this fall, and now the whole family is excited to be welcoming 5 year old Savannah into their hearts and home.
2/13/15—COURT IS FEBRUARY 18
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at piattfamilyabc.blogspot.com
LYDIA for the Whicker family — MT
The Whicker family is excited to be bringing Miss “Lydia” into their family! Since adopting their daughter Thalia (who also has Down syndrome) from China just over a year ago, they have experienced joy they never could have imagined! Although they thought their family was complete, Lydia quickly changed their minds about that! The Whickers know that God placed her in their path for a reason and look forward to the day that they can finally be together. Once home, Lydia will enjoy a house full of fun siblings, laughter, pancake breakfasts, blanket forts in the basement, backyard water fights, family talent shows, movie nights, cookie making sessions, snowman building contests, picnics in the park, and Saturday morning snuggles. She will be showered with love and affection by her big, crazy family! You’re invited to follow along with the Whickers via their blog as they work to get Lydia home where she belongs.
2/5/15—TRAVELING MARCH 4
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at harmonyandhavoc.blogspot.com
ERNIE and LETTIE for the Quinn family — FL
The Quinn Family adopted Dunham and Edgar from Ukraine Spring of 2014. Their two oldest children had begun their own journey to adulthood and God laid it on their hearts to adopt following the birth of their son Gage in 2013. Their three boys ages 1,2, and 3 keep their hands busy and their hearts full! Jennifer and Marty felt once again called by the Holy Spirit to adopt. This time a girl! They fell in love with Willow and know she will bring just the right amount of Pink to their house of Blue! When their home study approved them for two, they had their minds set on another girl. But sweet Ernie was tired of being ignored. He came every night to his mother in her dreams. He tugged at their hearts and soon it was clear the “little boy in pink”was destined to be their fifth son! The Quinn’s are delighted to be adopting Willow and Ernie but they need YOUR help to bring them home! They invite you to LIKE their Facebook page at Facebook.com/growingupwithdowns and visit their blog.
1/30/15—APPOINTMENT IS FEBRUARY 11
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at walknfaithquinnfamily@blogspot.com
FULLY FUNDED!!!
LISA for the Bison family — NC
John and Heidi were married in 2001 and became proud parents of their daughter, Ariauna later in 2001 followed by their son, Jaeden in 2003. Heidi has a degree in psychology and has worked with the developmentally disabled population and John is a veteran with a degree in criminal justice. John currently works full time while allowing Heidi to stay home and homeschool their children. As a Christian couple, they attend and serve at a local church where Heidi just returned from a 15 day mission trip to Indonesia.
Heidi has always had a passion for the disabled, which prompted her search for a career in that field. The hands on work with these people only strengthened the love she felt. Growing their family through the miracle of adoption was something close to Heidi’s heart so when she felt the Lord was directing her to pursue that calling, she shared it with John. Through time and prayer, John felt the same nudge from God and as a couple, they knew they must be obedient to the Lord’s calling. John has a special love for folks, both young and old, who have a diagnosis of Downs Syndrome so it was without question that they would pursue a special needs adoption!
John and Heidi’s children could not be more excited to have a younger sister and are already advocating for her to be treated just like them. Their compassion and love will help their little sister to develop into all that God designed her for. She has no idea the impact she has already had on the Bison family and the Bison family has no idea the joy that this sweet little bundle will bring to their family.
The Bison family asks for your prayers as they venture through this journey. If you feel led to help financially, no amount is too small!
2/23/15—TRAVELING MARCH 11
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog bringgraciehome.wordpress.com
ARIC for the Kojak family — FL
Chris and Ali have been married for 7 years and have two beautiful children already entrusted in their care. Their spirited little girl is three, and they have a sweet man cub who is one. Adoption has always been on Ali’s heart and a number of years ago she somehow found Reece’s Rainbow. The babies on this site haven’t left her thoughts since. You can’t unknow what you know — and they both felt convicted to ACT as a result of what they learned about children with special needs in other parts of the world. God has been working on growing their family biologically the last couple years, and recently made it clear that NOW was the tie to pursue adoption. They are over-the-moon to be adding this little love muffin to their family, and would sincerely appreciate your prayers for him and their family as they learn and grow and stretch over the course of this journey.
1/19/15—TRAVELING FEBRUARY 25
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog therighttoholdyou.com
BASIL, ANDREA, +1
Once upon a time, there was this hilariously not-so-little family, who kept thinking they were missing somebody. The sisters in the family kept voting for a little girl, to help even out the numbers, and the boys thought a baby sister would be awesome. So the mommy and the daddy prayed, and talked, and waited for God’s direction. Then one day, it came! And WOW- it’s time to go! There’s a little girlie waiting, fearfully and wonderfully made by the Creator, just waiting to be snuggled and kissed and loved to pieces by her well-prepared and experienced soon-to-be family. Please pray with them for their healthy and safety until they can get them home!
They’re ready to travel soon, so if you have a few dimes or nickels or a random unused inheritance (haha!) that you’d like to toss in to help them get them home quickly, it would be greatly appreciated! While they’re keeping it all rather hush hush right now, you better believe that once that referral is accepted and they can share that the kids are theirs, you’ll be bombarded with pictures!
Thank you all for your prayers, and support!!!!
2/2/15—TRAVELING NOW
KAMDYN and CANDACE for the Rosencrants family — GA
Scott and Lydia met in 1996 and married two years later. They moved to their current home when Lydia took a job as a college professor and Scott began taking classes to complete his college degree. They had planned on waiting to have children until Scott was done with school, but God had other plans. They felt called to adopt in 2001 and brought home their first two children, two boys, from Kazakhstan that same year. They were both 2 at the time. Scott and Lydia were deeply touched by all the children they left behind, so they returned to Kazakhstan the following year and adopted two brothers, who were 4 and 3. With four little boys under 5 to care for, Scott quit school and became a full time dad. In 2004, they adopted three sisters from Russia, who were 8, 7, and 7. After that, Lydia and Scott felt that they needed to focus on the needs of their children. They never forgot those left behind though. In 2011, they had a biological child, who is very spoiled by his older brothers and sisters. In 2013, they brought home a sweet five year old girl from a notorious orphanage in Bulgaria and she is doing very well! They are excited to add another precious girl to their family.
2/2/15—COURT is FEBRUARY 6
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog eightisnotenough2012.blogspot.com
LAYLA for the Horn family — IA
Katherine has worked with children as a social worker for almost 14 years. Around 6 years ago she decided she was ready to become a mom. After carefully researching different options she decided on international adoption. She was hoping and praying for the perfect toddler to add to her life. After waiting for a referral for a year she found her first daughter in Bulgaria on the waiting child list. Katherine quickly updated her dossier to match her daughter’s age and special needs and excitedly prepared for her. Maria came home from Bulgaria June 2012 and Katherine entered parenthood with a preteen. The past two years Katherine has been focusing on managing Maria’s spina bifida and ensuring that Maria has the opportunities to experience life fully. Katherine also spent time helping Maria’s close friends find from the orphanage adoptive families. Over the past two years it has been obvious to Katherine that their family is not complete and that Maria misses having the close sibling relationship she had with specific peers in the orphanage. Over the past year Katherine has considered starting the adoption process, but that was put on hold this past spring due to Maria needing 3 unexpected surgeries. Thankfully Maria is recovering well. This summer Katherine saw Layla and knew that she would be the perfect little sister for their family.
2/16/15—FIRST TRIP FEBRUARY 21
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at adoptingsinglemom.blogspot.com
SAMUEL for the May family — PA
Joe and Audra May knew that a seed had been planted in their hearts and that adoption was in their future when they left a Steven Curtis Chapman concert in February of 2002. Expecting their first of what was to be 3 biological daughters at that time, they didn’t know when that might be. However, they committed to praying and seeking the Lord. 10 years later their bio daughters now 9,6 and 3, God had indeed called them forward to adopt, as they had already started the process in July of 2011. They were seeking to adopt a special needs little girl through China’s waiting child program. At the end of February 2012, they had found their daughter, Emmalin. She was living at Maria’s Big House of Hope, the same home co-founded by Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife Mary Beth Chapman in honor of their daughter Maria. God had brought the connection to Steven and the seed for adoption had blossomed in their hearts and came full circle.
After traveling to China and visiting not only the orphanage Emmalin spent time in but also Maria’s Big House of Hope, as well as experiencing the miracle of adoption, their hearts had been forever changed. Joe and Audra began to pray and seek the Lord’s plans for their lives and whether God was calling them to adopt again. They had also learned and were very heartbroken for the thousands of little boys, more than little girls waiting for their forever family in China. February 2014, Audra stumbled upon the picture of a little boy on a waiting child page and she was immediately smitten. She was also surprised to realize that he was the same age and had the same medical condition, a form of Spina Bifida, as their daughter Emmalin. After sharing the little boy’s picture with Joe, who wasn’t ready to leap yet, they committed to praying. After a few weeks of prayer God revealed to them that the little boy was indeed their son and they were blessed to be able to pursue adopting him. This adoption, as was Emmalin’s is a complete leap of faith. Having no adoption funds to begin, God continues to pour out his blessings and open the doors as they pursue Samuel. Joe and Audra know that God can easily call the able to adopt but he often calls the willing and that’s what they are, willing to do the Lord’s work and to go where he calls them.
The May family is very excited and eager to bring Samuel home. They are eager to have their first little boy in the family and their daughter Emmalin is especially excited. Joe and Audra have been very open with Emmalin concerning her adoption. Through many conversations she already understands and likes to share with others wherever they go, that Samuel is from China and will be adopted just like her!
The May family would covet your prayers for their family and Samuel as they journey to bring him home. They are also blessed and so very thankful for any financial blessing they receive, no amount is too small.
2/22/15—TRAVELING IN MARCH
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at mayblessingsflow.com
QUINNLEE & EVERLYSE for the Hurst family — MI
Quinnlee has had a hold on so many hearts. So many people loved her and prayed for a family to come forward for her. She finally has a family that is moving forward to adopt her!
The Hurst family is so excited to announce that she is their daughter. Their oldest daughter, Faith, prayed for a little sister fervently for so long and her three brothers are just excited that they still outnumber the girls! Katie and Craig have prayed for Quinnlee for two years and finally realized that God was calling them to her. They have loved her for so long that the whole process seems surreal to them.
They have kept a verse hidden in their hearts for her as they prayed.
John 1:5 “And the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” They are confident that while Quinnlee may never see light that she will be the brightest part of their lives.
1/26/15—TRAVELING JANUARY 29
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog www.webearthelight.com
FELIX, GRETA, and ROMEO for the Barnett family — TX
David and Stephanie met in 1991 at First Baptist Church Frisco through David’s sister, Cindy, who was Stephanie’s Sunday School teacher. Stephanie grew very close to Cindy & her family as she began babysitting Cindy’s son & daughter. David & Stephanie were only initially family friends who only saw each other at church when David came to visit his family since David was in college & Stephanie was in high school. Once Stephanie graduated high school & began college, their relationship forged into a friendship. However, all of that changed in November 1996 when David’s mother was in the end stages of terminal cancer. Stephanie rallied around David’s family & became a strong support & source of comfort to David. It was during this time that God made it abundantly clear that their relationship would become more than “just friends.” In the month that followed, they began praying and seeking God’s will & timing for their new dating relationship. A month later, in January 1997, David and Stephanie became engaged to be married. Over the next eight months, as Stephanie finished her senior year in college, they continued to seek the Lord in their relationship & prayed for ways to serve Him together. In September 1997, David and Stephanie were married.
Initially they did not want children, so David continued his career as an accountant & Stephanie began her career as a secondary English and Reading teacher. For the next four years they happily continued on their career paths continually praying that God would open doors for them to serve Him in a mighty way through their daily lives. In May 2001, Stephanie’s life was shattered when her brother, Shane, tragically passed away. During this time of unspeakable grief, David & Stephanie sought comfort in God & remained steadfast in their desire to serve Him. God, in return, began to change their hearts in relation to their views on having children. Within a few short months, Stephanie was pregnant with their first child. What started as an uneventful healthy pregnancy changed when Stephanie entered her 2nd trimester. On December 23rd, during a routine sonogram, the Barnett’s were informed that their precious baby no longer had a heartbeat. They were completely devastated & in mourning, but found comfort in knowing that their precious baby was with Jesus & that they would one day be reunited as a family. The Barnett’s also found solace as they continued to place their trust in God & believe that, in His Sovereignty, God still had a plan for them that included children.
In April 2002, God widely opened the first door that would place David & Stephanie on their life ministry when Stephanie received a call. A family member knew of a perfect newborn baby who needed a family because his birth mother was unable to care for him. Immediately, Stephanie told the family member that she and David wanted this baby! It was only after she hung up the phone did the word “adoption” form in her mind and sear into her heart. Her very next thought was, “Oh my goodness, I just committed to this baby and did not even consult David!” Oops! When David got home from work later that night, Stephanie informed him that he would be a daddy in a matter of days. Thankfully, David reacted with more enthusiasm over adopting their son than Stephanie did! Several days later, the Barnett’s became first time parents through the beautiful world of adoption. They named their precious gift from God Copeland Shane after David’s grandpa, Copeland, and Stephanie’s brother, Shane. It was at this moment David & Stephanie knew their family would be built through adoption & not biologically. They could not believe that God would bless them in this way & could not wait to see how He would grow their family!
In 2004, the Barnett’s moved to San Antonio & began to earnestly pray that God would once again open the doors to adopt another child. Stephanie was teaching high school English & Reading and, in 2005, met a teenager with Down syndrome who changed her life forever. Although he was not Stephanie’s student, this amazing boy asked her to help him with his homework each morning. As Stephanie tutored him, she could not help but fall in love with him & marvel at just how perfectly & beautifully God had created him. So, for the next three years, David, Stephanie, & Copeland prayed that God would bless them with a child with Ds whom they could adopt. In 2008, their many prayers were answered when God blessed them with a beautiful newborn baby with Down syndrome! God had now wonderfully added the words “Down syndrome” to the word “adoption” while building their family. They named their new son Silas Eli. In the New Testament, Silas was one of the first Christian missionaries who served beside the Apostle Paul. It was only fitting that they chose this name because this was the missionary journey that they had been praying for and that God had called them to. Eli was David’s grandpa’s middle name.
From the moment the Barnett’s brought Silas home, he absolutely rocked their world! They now knew that God would call them to adopt more children with Ds. In 2010, Stephanie was led to Reece’s Rainbow through an article in People Magazine and the Barnett’s lives were forever changed. Through a series of miraculous events, the Lord completely opened the doors for the Barnett’s to bring home THREE more children. A few days after Christmas 2010, they officially committed to bringing home Igor, Tihon, and Leeza. In October of 2011, David and Stephanie landed on US soil with Igor (whom they named Teague Josiah), Tihon (whom they named Trenton James), and Leeza (whom they named Maclayne Faith – Mackie for short). The Lord had now graciously added the word “orphan” to the words “adoption” and “Down syndrome” as He continued to grow their family.
Now, a little over two years later, the Lord has answered the Barnett’s prayers of adopting again by opening doors for them to bring home three more orphans with Down syndrome from Eastern Europe. The Barnett’s are absolutely head over heels in love with Felix, Greta, & Romeo and cannot wait to bring them home! Please join the Barnett’s on their journey through prayer and support as the Lord once again grows their family through “adoption,” “Down syndrome,” and “orphan.” The Barnett’s are forever blessed and humbled by all those who have joined and will join them on their beautiful journey to fulfill God’s calling for their lives and ministry. Thank you!
17 that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. 18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19 After a little while the world will no longer see Me, but you will see Me; because I live, you will live also.” ~ John 14:17-19
12/26/14—APPOINTMENT IS JANUARY 21
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at obedient2hiscommand.blogspot.com
TRAVIS and DEVAN for the Horvath family — IA
Istvan and Anna met in 2006 in Debrecen Hungary. After Istvan aged out of a Hungarian orphanage he felt he Lord calling him to serve those in the same situation. Anna had traveled to Hungary to work in an orphanage for the summer and Istvan was working with GoodSports International serving those same children. They now live in Iowa where Anna uses her ability of dance to minister to children and teens and they are raising their two daughters.
It was a 7 year journey to get to this place of adoption. But January 1st of 2014 Istvan felt like God said “Now is the time” and the next day their journey began.
The Horvath’s are so excited to bring their two boys home early 2015!
They are adopting “Travis” and “Devan” from China. These beautiful little boys called to their hearts and they know that this time was the perfect time for them to adopt.
Thank you for being a part of their journey!
2/23/15—TRAVELING MARCH 7
ALEJANDRO for the Greene family — MO
Although his country’s guidelines won’t allow us to show you little “Alejandro’s” face, we CAN tell you that he is an adorable, energetic and and quickly growing 6-year old who deserves and desperately NEEDS a family of his own! We are on our way! This precious boy is Deaf, has been diagnosed with Autism and global development delays. He was a mere 2.2 pounds when born and has endured several surgeries as a toddler and has shown what a fighter he is! To see him doing somersaults now, you’d never guess the tough start to life he has overcome !
The Greene family has been married almost 8 years and has always considered adoption to grow their family. They were pursuing domestic adoption when they discovered Alejandro. They were completely smitten and knew they had been led to their son. In June 2013 they committed to “Alejandro” and have been working incredibly hard to complete each step along the way. They are now preparing their travel documents to travel in January 2015! The long wait is almost over!
Charles was adopted as a child and knows firsthand the blessings that come from having your forever family find you. Denise has spent over 20 years working within the Deaf community and with individuals with special needs. She is anxious to introduce Alejandro to basic Sign Language to help him communicate for the first time EVER. Both are very prepared to offer this amazing boy a home full of the love, support and 1:1 care he needs to thrive and come out of is isolation.
This is their FIRST child and FIRST adoption and they are anxious to secure the remaining funding to allow them to complete the process!! Every single dollar donated is appreciated and needed! The Greene’s have exhausted all possibilities for further loans and grants and credit, and have held numerous fundraisers. They now are praying for their story to reach those in a position to give generously and help them cross the finish line!
Alejandro’s family estimates they will need $15,000 to complete their adoption and bring him home. EVERY dollar counts!
2/6/15—TRAVELING FEBRUARY 17
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at greeneadoption.blogspot.com
A CHILD for the Shoger family — FL
Andrew and Kristin have been married for 10 years and have 3 biological boys! In the spring of 2013, God began to open their eyes to the needs of children around the world who are without families. Seeing how much they have been blessed by God with a loving family, faith, and a warm, cozy house, the Shogers felt God calling them to open their arms to another child. They began to have a strong desire to give a child in need a family, love, security and the chance to know and love Jesus. As they prayed about adoption, the Lord began showing them over and over again children with down syndrome and other special needs. As their eyes were opened to the life that awaits children with down syndrome in Eastern Europe, they decided to follow their hearts and pursue the adoption of a special little one with an extra chromosome. They hope to add a little pink to all the blue that’s currently in their home! Though they don’t know her name and have never seen her face, they know without a doubt that God has knit this special little one together in her mother’s womb and, even now, is knitting her together in their hearts!
Please join the Shoger’s on their journey of faith by following their blog. They covet your prayers, your support and your love as they embark on this exciting and life changing journey!
11/18/14—FIRST TRIP DEC 2014
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.copycatrat.blogspot.com
FULLY FUNDED!!!
MAUREEN for the Walter family — TX
Shawn and Lola Walter have two beautiful little girls ages 3 and 6. In the early part of 2014, they felt God tugging at their hearts to add another girl to their family. This time they were led to adopt a special needs child and came across the Reece’s Rainbow website, this is where they found “Maureen” and the lives of this whole family would change forever. They instantly fell in love with her and knew she was the one for their family. International adoption is not an easy process, there are a lot of documents and it is quite a lengthy process to finally get approval from the USCIS and Eastern Europe, but after a long road of jumping through many hoops to please everyone, they finally received all the approvals needed to travel to Eastern Europe. Shortly after the approval came, they received heart crushing news, the baby girl “Maureen” whom they loved so dearly, prayed for daily and had a room ready for, was not legally ready for adoption. This news was devastating and left them sad, confused, and with the feeling of their hearts being ripped from their chest. What were they to do now? While praying to God for answers as to why she was taken away from them and mourning her loss, they were presented with another baby girl whom they accepted and traveled for in June 2014. She was successfully brought home August 6, 2014. As soon as they met her, they knew they made the right choice to adopt a special needs child and still today she blesses everyone in the family daily. It was a hard road as she only weighed 12 pounds at 11 months old and needed open heart surgery which was performed October 2014, just a few short weeks after getting home. The surgeon is world renown for pediatric surgery and is the top in his field, he told the Walter’s it was a good thing they brought her and she was able to get the surgery needed, as she would have deteriorated and eventually died. She now weighs almost 18 pounds, sits on her own and is trying to crawl. She laughs and giggles with her big sisters and is growing and thriving!! Shortly after their baby girl had open heart surgery, they learned that “Maureen” was now legally ready for adoption and they prayed all the time she would find a good loving family. But after weeks passed and passed by, Maureen was still available and still tugging at their hearts. Then they found out the region Maureen is located in has horrible living conditions once she is transferred at the age of four and she would be guaranteed a death sentence if she remains. The Walter’s therefore decided they needed to bring her home where she belongs. This time the approvals were already in place, but the expenses to make a second trip and pay the fees for a second time are going to be tough, since so much money has been spent on the first trip and on out of pocket expenses for the open heart surgery. Little Maureen will need open heart surgery as well, once she arrives home to repair her heart so she can grow and thrive. They are trusting God to provide the money needed to bring Maureen home. If you are reading this and find it in your hearts to help bring this beautiful baby girl, who deserves a loving family and proper medical care, home, your tax deductible donations would be much appreciated by this family and mostly by the baby girl who will benefit from it. God bless you!
1/30/15—APPOINTMENT IS FEBRUARY 10
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at godshandonus.blogspot.com
LILY for the Thomas family — TX
Rob and Donna had the wonderful blessing of meeting “Anastasia” in Russia in September of 2012. Having four days to be her Mama and Papa was a joy beyond words. After the adoption ban, it has taken quite a while for them to discern what their next steps should be. Although they would go back to get Anastasia tomorrow if possible, God has given them a peaceful release and a new direction – with the promise that He will continue to guide them.
So it is with great joy for the future that they are going to be headed to Asia to adopt 5 year old “Lily!” What a blessing she will be to her new family!
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.” Psalm 32:8
1/31/15—TRAVELING FEBRUARY 25
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at hemmedinbyHim.blogspot.com
EDEN for the McLean family — MA
Kerri and Dan have some very exciting news to share!!! This adorable munchkin will soon be part of their family! Kerri and Dan have many reasons to be thankful for the internet. They met on Match.com four and a half years ago, and knew right away that they had found “the one.” They have been married for two and a half years now, and thanks again to the internet, they have fallen in love with a baby on the other side of the world. They knew right away that she was “the one.”
Dan has a 6 year old son and a 9 year old daughter, who is also lucky enough to have Down Syndrome. While Dan’s children live far away, they get to visit with them as often as possible. They are excited that their new munchkin will have such a wonderful big brother and sister, to help her become the newest member of the McLean clan. Kerri and Dan live on a small family farm, which is home to 5 dogs, 2 cats, 2 horses, 2 goats, and a handful of chickens. They also both have large extended families who all live nearby. Everyone is looking forward to welcoming this much anticipated member of the family, as soon as they can get her home! Thank you for all your support!
1/8/15—USCIS APPROVED, WAITING FOR COURT
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at soundscrazyoutloud.blogspot.com
EDMUND for the Hinz family — FL
Brian and Erin have been happily married since August of 2008. After a wonderful honeymoon cruise with family friends, they decided that they wanted to start trying for a family. However, God had other plans. After two years of battling infertility and a year of infertility treatments, the Hinzes gave up on having children naturally and began to research adoption.
After weeks of adoption research, Erin came upon the Reece’s Rainbow website and immediately became sold on the idea of adopting a child with Down syndrome. However, she kept this a secret for several weeks while she figured out the best way to approach Brian with the idea. Then, one day, she found a picture of a little boy she knew was meant to be hers. She approached Brian and, after months of research a prayer, they commit to adopting Sterling.
Sterling has Down syndrome and was adopted from Ukraine in October 2011. Now 7, Sterling has been home for over two years and is thriving in a loving home. He has been the greatest blessing the Hinzes could ever imagine. He has helped them to become better people and has given them a love that they never knew existed. You can read all about Sterling’s adoption here: bringingsterlinghome.blogspot.com
Now, the Hinzes are pleased to announce that they are adding another little man to the family! They cannot wait to get him home and they hope you will join them on this mission.
2/3/15—COURT IS FEBRUARY 10
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog: twolittleketchupcrocodiles.blogspot.com
ALONZO, SOPHIA, and SADIE for the Vargas family — PA
Adam and Chastity have been married for 15 years. They have six children. There have always been children in their lives – even their first date was surrounded by neighbor children playing in the snow. In 2002, the Vargas family began a Christian adventure camp that is held at their home twice a year. The camp has grown to approximately 34 children from both city and rural communities. Camp IGUANA (In God’s Universe Accepting New Adventures) encourages children through hands-on activities and trips to look at everything in their lives as adventures. This has also become how their family looks at each day as well. Their family has hosted 9 children from orphanages in EE over the last 4 years with the hope to adopt that grew more and more. They eagerly look forward to adding to their family through adoption and are grateful for your prayers and support.
1/2/15—WAITING FOR COURT
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at beyondwhatmyeyeshaveseen.blogspot.com
NADIA and NANCY for the Collier family — NC
Marc and Becky Collier began a relationship in the summer of 2003 and were married in August of 2005. God gave them two beautiful little boys, one in 2008 and one in 2010. After the birth of their youngest, they were sure they were done having biological children, but they were also sure that God had more children in store for them.
From an early age, both Marc and Becky understood the importance of God’s call to care for orphans in James 1:27, and they both wanted to be used of God to reach out and care for orphans. They just weren’t sure how that would look.
Throughout the year of 2013, both Marc and Becky, through studying God’s word, praying, and receiving Christian counsel, felt as though God was bringing them nearer to the world of adoption, but they had so many unanswered questions. How would this fit into their world financially? How would this affect their two boys, one of whom has his own set of special needs? Should they adopt internationally or domestically? Two things they knew for sure: they would NEVER adopt special needs, and they would NEVER disrupt their children’s birth order.
Ha, ha.
God placed two families into their lives who were starting the adoption process near the end of 2013. One family adopted a girl domestically; the other family planned to adopt two boys internationally. When shown the two situations, God immediately drew Marc and Becky to the pictures and the stories of the chilren who were wasting away in institutions, who were born into countries that chose not to see the beauty and importance in all human life. And it was apparent to them both that God was softening their hearts towards international adoption.
Early in January of 2014, their friends posted a blog called “Perfect Timing.” On it were links to several other children that were in need of homes. All of them had special needs. Becky read the blog and clicked on the links. She went through them once, and said a prayer for each child, asking God to find them a family. When she was finished, she clicked on the last link for a second time. It led to a set of twin girls, born in August of 2007. And though she had just read their bio and seen their pictures, something happened the second time she looked at them.
Becky immediately sat down and wrote out a list entitled “Ten Reasons Why We Should Adopt Nadia and Nancy Now.” She hung it on the door for her husband to see when he came home from work. He read it, chuckled, and hung it on the fridge.
The next four months were a time of very difficult growth for both Marc and Becky as they realized that the note on the fridge meant more to each of them than they wanted to admit. They began discussing the possibility of adopting children with special needs who were, in fact, older than their boys. Several times they decided that the idea of adoption needed to be put on hold for one reason or another, but the conviction of the Holy Spirit and the words of scripture would weigh so heavily on their hearts that the idea would once again be brought out for discussion.
Finally, in May, God made it clear that it was time for them to step forward, and so in faith, they committed to adding two to their family.
1/30/15—APPOINTMENT IS FEBRUARY 9
Follow the Collier family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.Rebeccathesaint.blogspot.com
CONNER for the VanAuken family — NY
Paul and Kim have been married for 18 years in August and tried getting pregnant right away. Paul had two children from a previous marriage so they decided to have only one child. They tried for two years to get pregnant, had 3 miscarriages but finally had Laura in October of 1998. Their family was perfect. They had 2 girls and a boy, they had custody of Paul’s 2 children. Life was filled with college for Aaron, dance classes, softball, church youth groups, jr high school, preschool and birthday parties. Then our world fell apart, in October of 2002. Aaron was killed in a car accident. The next three and a half years were like a bad dream that they couldn’t wake up from. They were all living in the same house but their family was broken. They went through life day to day hour to hour. Kim tried to keep normalcy for Caprice and Laura. They continued with the sports, dance, youth group, and school activities. Paul barely existed. He went to work, was put on anti-depressant medication and when the medication didn’t work he turned to alcohol to numb the pain. Caprice decided to go live with her mom which made the hole in our hearts even worse. Nothing seemed to be bringing their family back together at this point not even counseling.
Until the night Paul was driving and wrapped his car around a tree he had been drinking it was the anniversary of Aarons death. The police officer that had arrived on the scene first at our son’s accident arrived first at Paul’s. He said his biggest fear arriving on the scene with Paul hanging out the window was that he would again have to come to our house and tell us of the death of yet another member of our family. This was Paul’s turning point. Paul survived the accident with only bumps and bruises. Their lives changed after that night. They started going to a Christian counselor, their friends invited us to go to Cross Creek church and they started going and even started volunteering there. Life slowly got back to the “new normal”.
Friends from their new church were foster parents so they decided to honor Aaron’s life by helping other children. They started taking foster care classes and became foster parents. They have helped 9 children over the last 6 years ages 2 months to 15 years old. They have watched them come into their home scared and broken and leave happy, secure, healthy and most of them with Jesus in their heart. They see the children and keep in touch through visits, calls and cards and are so happy that they were able to help them along the way. This is one of the reasons that they would like to adopt because they would like to help a child permanently.
Another reason is, their families have adopted. Kim’s dad and mom adopted 3 children from Korea, her brother adopted a boy from Russia and her sister a boy from New Jersey. Paul’s sister adopted 2 children from Korea also. Their families and the love they have for these children have been a tremendous inspiration.
Finally one of our biggest inspirations besides their son are a couple in our church who adopted a little girl with down syndrome last year. We never thought about adopting a “special needs” child until they introduced us to a picture of “Conner” on Reeces Rainbow. We fell in love at first site. “Conner” has Hodgkin’s disease and went through 6 rounds of chemotherapy and is now in remission, he is also close to aging out. We are his last hope.
So although they were not expecting especially financially to adopt from Eastern Europe God has led them to “Conner” and they can’t wait to give him a forever home that he deserves. They also cannot wait to show Conner the unconditional love of Jesus Christ as they have shown all the children who have come into their lives. They have been shown that his is the GREATEST LOVE of ALL!!!
2/25/15—COURT IS MARCH 13
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog vanaukenfamilyadoption.blogspot.com
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