Traveling Now
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Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome... |
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Bowden, Sam and Jesse for the Rieben family — OH
When Richard and Valerie Rieben were married 12 years ago they never could’ve imagined the adventures that awaited them. In 2005, just 2.5 years after saying “I do,” the Rieben’s welcomed biological triplets Maren, Lukas and Jacob into the family. But the adventures didn’t stop there! In 2007, the family grew by two when Joshua was adopted from Uzbekistan and Evan from Ukraine. Life with five under five was so much fun that the Rieben’s decided to invite a few more to the party and in 2010 Alayna, Lilyana and Alexis joined them from Bulgaria. Realizing that they were still a few players short of a baseball team, they brought Benjamin and Thomas home from Bulgaria in 2012 bringing them to double digits! They say that things are cheaper by the dozen and, with three seats left in their 15-passenger van, the Rieben’s have decided to cross the pond one last time to bring Jesse, Sam and Bowden home! Won’t you join them in the adventure by supporting them on this wild ride!? After all, the more the merrier!
1/9/2015—FINAL TRIP JAN 2015
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at fromthetrenchesofadoption.blogspot.com
OSCAR for the Stallmer family — NY
Jeff and Caroline Stallmer married in 2003, and have been blessed with 3 biological children Madeline 10, Thomas 8 and Oliver 2. Oliver was diagnosed with Down syndrome 10 days after his birth. It came as a complete surprise to the family. Not knowing anything about Down syndrome they were devastated. Thanks to modern technology they were able to sit by his little crib in the NICU and start researching. They came across countless inspirational videos of all the amazing things that children and adults with Down syndrome can do and how much love they give to their families and friends. Oliver has changed their lives completely. They are apart of a community of amazing people. Not long after they brought him home from the hospital they came across Reece’s Rainbow and knew that someday they would adopt a child with Down syndrome. Today is that day. W hen they saw the picture of Oscar they just knew it was meant to be. They have been praying everyday and receiving some almost unbelievable little signs from God daily that this is what they are supposed to do. Please help them adopt Oscar from China!
1/20/15—TRAVELING JAN 30
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.
1/19/15—COURT PASSED, WAITING FOR FINAL TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at aservantinhousebeautiful.
JOSHUA and DAVID for the Maas family — KY
Darren & Rebecca have been married for 17 years. In 2005 God began impressing upon them the frugality of trying to live the “American Dream”. The Maas had built a large home and filled it with nice furniture. They were a two income family with two children and a dog. While pregnant with their second child they began to think about the future and what that would look like. They did not like what they saw. Rebecca never wanted to work full time but would need to work to pay for the comfortable lifestyle. So Darren & Rebecca began to make drastic changes in their lifestyles. They sold their large home and bought a smaller one that they could afford on one income. After their son was born Rebecca did not return to work but stayed home to raise their family. A few months after their son was born they began the adoption process in China.
In 2007 Darren & Rebecca completed their first adoption of a beautiful little girl from China with a cleft lip and palate. After seeing first-hand the need of the children in the orphanages to have forever families, the Maas made the decision to never limit the number of children they would have but to allow God to lay children on their hearts that needed a family. Since then Darren & Rebecca have adopted seven more children. Six of the children the Maas have adopted have medical and/or physical special needs.
Darren & Rebecca are in the process of adopting two boys from China, whom they have named Joshua and David. Joshua is 5 years old and has Cerebral Palsy. Joshua is also very malnourished and likely has other medical needs. David is 3 years old and has a hand/limb difference, and likely a genetic disorder which affects other body systems. David is also very malnourished. Due to both boys current medical and nutritional needs they have been granted an expedited adoption. They began the adoption process in September 2014 and will likely travel to complete the adoption in January 2015. Their total adoption costs are $45,000. Before they can travel to pick up the boys they need to raise the remaining $30,000 for final agency fees and the in country travel fees and expenses.
1/1/5—TRAVELING JANUARY 15
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.thissideofeternityblog.blogspot.com
SAVANNAH for the Piatt family — CA
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.
12/21/14—WAITING FOR COURT DATE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at piattfamilyabc.blogspot.com
SHILOH for the Araya family — OH
The three members of the Araya family come from three different continents, but together they are an incredibly happy American family who could not be more excited about adding another member to their crazy, fun, Jesus-loving, multicultural home. Arturo was born in Chile and came to America when he was 14. Jennifer was born in rural West Virginia. Their shared passion for music brought them together while studying with the same cello teacher in college, and their shared passion and love for Christ has enriched their marriage ever since. In December 2013, they brought home Shanti, their first child: a beautiful, spunky, smart, and compassionate 12-year-old girl who was born in Ukraine (and who was known as “Shawna” on Reece’s Rainbow.) From three languages and three countries, God is weaving a beautiful tapestry of love in the life of the Araya family.
While life as a family of three is pure joy, Arturo, Jennifer, and Shanti know their home is not yet full. They all feel God’s unmistakable call to a fourth: a precious little boy whose colors and texture are vital to the finished masterpiece God seeks to create of their lives. Shiloh does not yet know of his new papa, mama, or sister, but they know about him, and they also know he will be a blessing to them all as they grow to a family of four.
Because they just completed an international adoption only 8 months ago, the Arayas know they cannot do this alone. Their individual financial and emotional resources are not sufficient for the undertaking before them. They need the love, prayers, and financial support of many others to help them fulfill God’s call for their lives. They trust God’s provision and put their faith in His guidance. Arturo, Jennifer, and Shanti covet your prayers and support as they make the journey to bring Shiloh home.
11/22/14—APPT IS DECEMBER 8
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.fromhouse2home.us
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
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.
1/3/15—WAITING FOR COURT
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog eightisnotenough2012.blogspot.com
PHINEAS and LOVE for the Lee family — OR
Kelly and Kevin (K.C.) have been married for 10yrs and have 3 children Kendall (8), Kopelan (6) and their newest blessing whom they just finalized on this past month Karis (1). They have been blessed by adoption 2x now and know the love and joy it brings to a family. They were foster parents for over 9 years in the past and worked/volunteered in various fields with children who needed a little extra love. To say their life has not been surrounded by children would be an understatement. Recently moving from the East coast to the West coast to be closer to Kelly’s family, they have just bought their dream house in the country. They now have the house, and the land and have even added some goats and chickens to the mix. After years of advocating, praying and donating to families bringing children home to their families Kelly and K.C. are stepping out in faith as they not only plan on bringing one, but two sweet song birds into their family! They are so excited and the older children are overjoyed at the prospect of a new brother and sister. Especially Kendall, she is enjoying the fact that she may become a little sister!
Committing to “Phineas” is very special to us. Kelly being his Guardian Angel has prayed and advocated for months for him. She has raised funds and talked to families late into the night that were so close to committing, but never did. Now we know why. He was our son. God was preparing their hearts. It was not until they committed to host two children through a hosting program P143.org and the hosting did not work out that they really felt the tug. Why wait? Why should we wait until summer hosting? Why should we make the kids wait? We prayed and struggled with what to do. It was K.C. that said, ” Why don’t we just adopt then”. So here they go…. Please Pray as they step out in Faith in this brand new journey of International Adoption!!
12/29/14—TRAVELING JANUARY 14
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at floridaleefamily.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!!!
1/2/15—FINAL TRIP IN FEBRUARY
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog vanaukenfamilyadoption.blogspot.com
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
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
VALENZ’S Family
There is a woman who is working very hard to become “Valenz” Mom. She cannot wait until he comes home! He will be surrounded by uncles who share his extra chromosome and an extended family who can’t wait to meet him.
Thank you for your prayers!
12/12/14—FINAL TRIP JANUARY 17
FULLY FUNDED!!!
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
PEPE for the Nelms family — VA
Since she was a little girl, Tiffany wanted a large family. At 30, Tiffany decided to adopt as a single mother. With a degree in social work and a love for international travel, she traveled most of Latin America over the last 10 years. International adoption from a region of the world she loved so much seemed a great way to start a family.
A friend shared several waiting children in Latin American and Tiffany immediately fell in love with Pepe. Having traveled to Pepe’s country in the past as a tourist (and loving it), it was an even better fit. Tiffany’s work with immigrant children in the US keeps her well connected to the Latin culture, a part of her life she wants to share with Pepe.
Pepe has some delays, but is a “people person” and makes friends easily. He is an active boy and his momma cant wait to get him home and keep him busy making friends and seeing the world.
Follow the Nelms family’s adoption journey on their blog at mipequenitocolombiano.wordpress.com
12/23/14—TRAVELING JANUARY 21
TEMPERANCE for the Willock family — MD
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
VIOLET for the Littrell family — KS
The Littrell family is excited to be bring home “Violet” to her forever-family! They were not originally planning to adopt a child, let alone a special needs child, but God has other plans and when they found out about her through a friend, they knew she was meant to be theirs! This precious little girl has many diagnosis and multiple, complicated special needs. To be blunt, she is unwanted in her home country, she has been living in her orphanage for over 4 years and has no chance of a happy future without a family willing to go the distance with her to help her reach her full potential. They are committed to loving her and showing her how precious and valuable she is! The Littrells have 4 biological children who are all very eager to welcome her into their family.
11/25/14—TRAVELING in JANUARY 2015
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
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!!!
DAMARIS and JAGGER for the Enberg family — MN
Eric and Tam have adopted previously and were not looking for another adoption situation. They were busy raising their ten kids. Then a little girl caught their eyes and they couldn’t forget her.
12/1/14—APPOINTMENT IS DECEMBER 10
DEBBIE for the Anderson family — MO
Dane and Misty have been married almost 22 years. Their family has grown over the years, and to their great joy now includes 11 children! They never thought they would have a family so large, nor be the parents of two daughters with special needs. They traveled to Eastern Europe last year to bring home their daughters, both girls have Down syndrome. They felt God call them to father the fatherless, and although there were many unknowns they pressed forward and pursued international adoption. The blessing of adoption has flowed into every part of their lives. Both Dane and Mistys’ faith has grown, and their family had embraced their new sisters! Their house is full, full of love and laugher and joy! But something was missing. Even when all the children were seated at the table, they would ask, “Who’s missing?” It was Debbie that was missing! When Misty showed Dane her picture and told him she’d been transferred and needed a family soon, Dane felt she was theirs. Misty knew it too. They prayed and brought the idea of adopting Debbie to their children. Once again God moved their hearts and the children all agreed – she belonged in the family!
Now the Andersons are embarking on another international adoption, the third adoption in less than a year, the cost is monumental, and the paperwork and the stress is still there, but it’s worth it! They all feel it’s worth it, to save a life, to redeem a lost child, to make one less orphan.
Won’t you help them bring Little Debbie home? Home to a life filled with love, acceptance, joy, and of course fun!!
11/12/14—APPOINTMENT IS NOVEMBER 26
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog thesassafraschronicles.blogspot.com
VALERA for the Schultz family — WI
While at the RR Family Reunion this year I met a little boy who had the ability to draw in a crowd! He was adorable and sweet and had a continual smile on his face! I couldn’t wait to meet the parents of this little firecracker!
I continued to watch him and finally figured out who he “belonged” to. I was shocked to find out he was an orphan being hosted by a RR family for the summer and would be sent back to the orphanage the end of August. He looked about 7 or 8 years old but was actually 12. I had a hard time imagining what his life was like back there. My husband and I were already in process to bring home a little RR sweetie from another country so I never imagined it would even be possible to be his Mama too; I was wrong!
We had to make some phone calls, change homestudy agencies and have a LOT of Faith that fundraising would go well! But WE DO BELIEVE that he is our SON and he will be home soon with the help of our family and friends in real life and in the cyber world! No donation is too small and will mean the world to our SON!
11/17/14—APPOINTMENT IS DECEMBER 2
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.
12/16/14—WAITING FOR COURT
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
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PO Box 277
Monrovia, MD 21770
