Wanted to share a couple of sweet praises with y'all!
First - ANYA has a family commited to adopt her! Isn't that exciting?! (And no it is not us in case you were wondering.) Its been almost a year since we first advocated for Anya with a giveaway last January. Praying for a family to go get this precious little girl. God has answered this prayer! Her Mom is a sweet gal who is so excited about her! I'm excited that I get to walk with this family as they go to get her. I am honored to continue praying for Anya and to add her new family to my prayer list. When they are able to go public with this news - and if they have a blog - I will surely share it!
Second - The Angel Tree ended yesterday. This is a huge fundraiser for the children on Reece's Rainbow. The goal this year was to raise at least $1000 for each child. Each child had someone working to raise funds - but it isn't an easy thing to do! As of the morning of December 31st, there were still many that were not close to their goal.
People continued to pray and to donate as volunteers added in the monies up until midnight. Want to know the final result?
EVERY child is has met the goal! Is that a sweet answer to prayer or what?! Here is the Angel Tree if you want to peek for yourself. (I'm not sure how much longer it will be up though!)
There is still more work to be done, but as always, it is God working through us. To Him be the glory! Praying that this new year sees the grants rising so that more of these sweet children will be home by next Christmas! Will you join me in praying that more children will find families?
I'll post more later on our New Year's Eve activities. I hope the start to your year is a fun one!
Blessings
Leslie
Showing posts with label Adoption. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Adoption. Show all posts
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Monday, December 20, 2010
Donating to Reece's Rainbow
Just a quick note to say that if you are interested in making a donation toward Anya's fund (or any of the other children at Reece's Rainbow), it is not too late! I didn't realize that I set my chip-in to end on December 15th. I apologize for that!
You can mail a check to the following address.
Reece's Rainbow, PO Box 4024, Gaithersburg, MD 20885
Thanks!
Leslie
You can mail a check to the following address.
Reece's Rainbow, PO Box 4024, Gaithersburg, MD 20885
Thanks!
Leslie
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Four years ago ... on two different continents
Something I've been pondering lately as I advocate for Anya. I imagine what it might have been like four years ago. Two women about to give birth. Each was blessed with a daughter. I imagine that both were surprised - along with a host of other emotions - to learn that their precious little girl also had Down syndrome.
So many things similar and yet so many things different too. One was born in a country in which there is support for bringing up a child with special needs. Early intervention and therapies offered a lot of encouragement.
I can only imagine what life must have been like for this mom - facing an uncertain future with a child in a culture that just didn't accept children with Down syndrome. Quite often these moms are just encouraged to give up their babies at birth. (Not sure that for many there even is another option.) The babies are taken to an orphange to live.
In different circumstances, that could have been me. I was frightened and overwhelmed. I was also blessed with incredible friends and family. A wonderful OB. A new pediatrician. And most of all a faithful Father. All who encouraged me that I could do this. I had no idea then of the amazing blessing having this little girl would bring. I feel certain that the other mom didn't know this either. How could she when almost all the people with Ds in her country live behind the walls of an orphange or a mental institution.
In different circumstances, this could have been Eliana. I thank God for giving me Eliana. I'm thankful she has Down syndrome. He has taught me so much through her. I wouldn't be the same person without her in my life. Because of her, I found Reece's Rainbow. I learned about the fate of children like her in other countries. It broke my heart and I began to pray. My heart became burdened for these children. At times, this burden has been quite heavy. I sometimes wonder if there is more I should be doing that I'm not. I look at my beautiful little girl who brings joy to our world and think that there are so many more like her, locked away and waiting.
Will you please join me in praying for a precious little girl who is turning 4 today? Her name is "Anya" and she lives in Eastern Europe in an orphanage. She has never known the love of a mother and father. It is her birthday. I imagine though that this day is no different than any other for her. No cake. No candles. No presents. No family.
Just this week, we were able to see new pictures of Anya and an updated description of her too. I was excited to hear that she smiles and laughs and wants to be loved. She sounds like a precious little girl. I was also saddened to read about how she was treated.
Here is the newest description of her.
From an adoptive family who visited with her in August 2010: "Anya can smile, sit up, crawl, pull herself up to a stand using the edge of the playpen. She can hear and see well enough to have heard me call her name and to immediately sit up and crawl over to the playpen gate and stand up. She cried when I could not pick her up. Another time, she sat up and climbed into my lap and clapped my hands together over and over. I do not think she is autistic and she does have facial expressions. She is definitely more involved than your average kid with Ds but she is a doll who is craving attention. Also, she is not aggressive… she did not bite me or pull my hair, or do anything like that. Andrea, Anya does have a look to her that seems slightly different that just straight-up ds and she does seem to be too laid back to the point of maybe some sensory issues. But she surprised me with her will to crawl to me and her desire to come to me, to the gate, to find me. I have to be honest and tell you that Anya is not in a good room. Anya is ignored by the caretakers and by the other children. I really believe she will change with love and EI, but she will always be a bit higher needs I think. She will be four this coming week, and I worry that they will transfer her to babyhouse 1, or worse to the institution. Anya will not make it in an institution.
Now that she is 4, Anya is eligible to be transferred to an institution. As you read, this is really not a good option for her. That last line just hurts my heart. Please join me in praying for her family to step up now before she is transferred. This precious little girl needs love and attention. She needs a family so she can grow and thrive.
Please pray. If you would like to donate, there is a chip-in on my blog or you can mail a check. Lets not let money be the obstacle that keeps her from finding a family. Time is crucial.
Thank you!
Leslie
So many things similar and yet so many things different too. One was born in a country in which there is support for bringing up a child with special needs. Early intervention and therapies offered a lot of encouragement.
I can only imagine what life must have been like for this mom - facing an uncertain future with a child in a culture that just didn't accept children with Down syndrome. Quite often these moms are just encouraged to give up their babies at birth. (Not sure that for many there even is another option.) The babies are taken to an orphange to live.
In different circumstances, that could have been me. I was frightened and overwhelmed. I was also blessed with incredible friends and family. A wonderful OB. A new pediatrician. And most of all a faithful Father. All who encouraged me that I could do this. I had no idea then of the amazing blessing having this little girl would bring. I feel certain that the other mom didn't know this either. How could she when almost all the people with Ds in her country live behind the walls of an orphange or a mental institution.
In different circumstances, this could have been Eliana. I thank God for giving me Eliana. I'm thankful she has Down syndrome. He has taught me so much through her. I wouldn't be the same person without her in my life. Because of her, I found Reece's Rainbow. I learned about the fate of children like her in other countries. It broke my heart and I began to pray. My heart became burdened for these children. At times, this burden has been quite heavy. I sometimes wonder if there is more I should be doing that I'm not. I look at my beautiful little girl who brings joy to our world and think that there are so many more like her, locked away and waiting.
Will you please join me in praying for a precious little girl who is turning 4 today? Her name is "Anya" and she lives in Eastern Europe in an orphanage. She has never known the love of a mother and father. It is her birthday. I imagine though that this day is no different than any other for her. No cake. No candles. No presents. No family.
Just this week, we were able to see new pictures of Anya and an updated description of her too. I was excited to hear that she smiles and laughs and wants to be loved. She sounds like a precious little girl. I was also saddened to read about how she was treated.
Here is the newest description of her.
From an adoptive family who visited with her in August 2010: "Anya can smile, sit up, crawl, pull herself up to a stand using the edge of the playpen. She can hear and see well enough to have heard me call her name and to immediately sit up and crawl over to the playpen gate and stand up. She cried when I could not pick her up. Another time, she sat up and climbed into my lap and clapped my hands together over and over. I do not think she is autistic and she does have facial expressions. She is definitely more involved than your average kid with Ds but she is a doll who is craving attention. Also, she is not aggressive… she did not bite me or pull my hair, or do anything like that. Andrea, Anya does have a look to her that seems slightly different that just straight-up ds and she does seem to be too laid back to the point of maybe some sensory issues. But she surprised me with her will to crawl to me and her desire to come to me, to the gate, to find me. I have to be honest and tell you that Anya is not in a good room. Anya is ignored by the caretakers and by the other children. I really believe she will change with love and EI, but she will always be a bit higher needs I think. She will be four this coming week, and I worry that they will transfer her to babyhouse 1, or worse to the institution. Anya will not make it in an institution.
Now that she is 4, Anya is eligible to be transferred to an institution. As you read, this is really not a good option for her. That last line just hurts my heart. Please join me in praying for her family to step up now before she is transferred. This precious little girl needs love and attention. She needs a family so she can grow and thrive.
Please pray. If you would like to donate, there is a chip-in on my blog or you can mail a check. Lets not let money be the obstacle that keeps her from finding a family. Time is crucial.
Thank you!
Leslie
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Pampered Chef Fundraiser
Just a few updates. This is a sticky post so scroll down for newer posts.
Pampered Chef party at my house TODAY - December 3rd at 7pm.
Please come and bring a friend if you want!
If you would like to order online, go to this site. Please make sure that I'm listed as the hostess. We will close this show on Monday 6 Dec
www.pamperedchef.biz/30mintdinr
Thank you for your help! If you have questions, please ask!
Blessings
Leslie
Pampered Chef party at my house TODAY - December 3rd at 7pm.
Please come and bring a friend if you want!
If you would like to order online, go to this site. Please make sure that I'm listed as the hostess. We will close this show on Monday 6 Dec
www.pamperedchef.biz/30mintdinr
Thank you for your help! If you have questions, please ask!
Blessings
Leslie
Monday, November 22, 2010
Adoption
This has been a hard post for me to write. I've been working on it for days. I think sometimes I feel like it's not really something I should be talking about - adoption. Its not like I've adopted, so who am I to talk? I figure too though that there are probably a lot of people in the same position as me. Even though I'm not adopting, I can still make a difference. And so can you!
It's National Adoption Month. Its being talked about in a lot of places now. Adoption. What does the word conjure up for you? For many it is a word filled with emotion - exciting, frightening and overwhelming. I think the sheer numbers alone overwhelm us. 147 million orphans. Can you even wrap your head around that number? I know I can't.
It hurts my heart to think of so many children without a mom and dad. With no family. I can't imagine how hard that must be. I look at my own life and know how very much my own family has blessed me and helped to shape who I am. They have given me hope, encouragement, courage and lots of love. I've always been thankful for my family. Learning about orphans though has given my thankfulness a whole new dimension.
I have learned recently that some people think we adopted Eliana. (These are obviously new friends.) I wasn't sure why until one friend said it was the bumper sticker on my car. (One for Reece's Rainbow.) Another friend said it was because I had talked about it. (I love to advocate for Reece's Rainbow.) In case anyone reading wonders - she isn't adopted. As a sweet friends says, she is "home-grown".
Though Eliana isn't adopted, it was her life that opened my eyes to so many things - including the need for parents to adopt special needs kids.
I found Reece's Rainbow after Eliana was born. We participated in the first Angel Tree the year she turned 1. That was 3 years ago. I've seen this ministry grow and flourish in that time. It's truly exciting.
Still there is such great need. For many families, money is all that stands in the way of them adopting. Will you join me in praying for these children and the families working to bring them home? If you are interested in finding out more, you can visit the Reece's Rainbow website. Over the next month, I'm advocating for Anya. If you would like to donate to her fund, you can do so by clicking on the chip-in button in the right side-bar. Any gift is tax deductible.
I truly want more people to know the joy of having a child with Down syndrome in their lives. I remember being so scared of the diagnosis at first. I wish I had known then what I know now.
I know though that I had to learn it myself - and some of it through great trials. Her first year was filled with so many challenges. And yet, the joy is also unmistakable. I've learned to slow down and to let go. I've learned to look at things differently. I know I have much yet to learn.
Her eyes. It was that feature that first told me that my daughter had Down syndrome. I didn't know when I first gazed at her eyes, that mine would be changed. I didn't know all that was in store for me. I had no way to know of the joy that was to come.
If you want to read a poignant and stirring blog post on adoption, please visit No Greater Joy Mom and her post called Reckless Abandon.
I want these children around the world to know the joy of a home. Of a family. Of kisses from a mom as she tucks them in bed. Of hugs from a Daddy that help them feel secure. Every child needs to be loved. Every child has gifts to give. Every child is a blessing. Please join me in praying for these children that need a family.
Blessings
Leslie
It's National Adoption Month. Its being talked about in a lot of places now. Adoption. What does the word conjure up for you? For many it is a word filled with emotion - exciting, frightening and overwhelming. I think the sheer numbers alone overwhelm us. 147 million orphans. Can you even wrap your head around that number? I know I can't.
It hurts my heart to think of so many children without a mom and dad. With no family. I can't imagine how hard that must be. I look at my own life and know how very much my own family has blessed me and helped to shape who I am. They have given me hope, encouragement, courage and lots of love. I've always been thankful for my family. Learning about orphans though has given my thankfulness a whole new dimension.
I have learned recently that some people think we adopted Eliana. (These are obviously new friends.) I wasn't sure why until one friend said it was the bumper sticker on my car. (One for Reece's Rainbow.) Another friend said it was because I had talked about it. (I love to advocate for Reece's Rainbow.) In case anyone reading wonders - she isn't adopted. As a sweet friends says, she is "home-grown".
Though Eliana isn't adopted, it was her life that opened my eyes to so many things - including the need for parents to adopt special needs kids.
I found Reece's Rainbow after Eliana was born. We participated in the first Angel Tree the year she turned 1. That was 3 years ago. I've seen this ministry grow and flourish in that time. It's truly exciting.
Still there is such great need. For many families, money is all that stands in the way of them adopting. Will you join me in praying for these children and the families working to bring them home? If you are interested in finding out more, you can visit the Reece's Rainbow website. Over the next month, I'm advocating for Anya. If you would like to donate to her fund, you can do so by clicking on the chip-in button in the right side-bar. Any gift is tax deductible.
I truly want more people to know the joy of having a child with Down syndrome in their lives. I remember being so scared of the diagnosis at first. I wish I had known then what I know now.
I know though that I had to learn it myself - and some of it through great trials. Her first year was filled with so many challenges. And yet, the joy is also unmistakable. I've learned to slow down and to let go. I've learned to look at things differently. I know I have much yet to learn.
Her eyes. It was that feature that first told me that my daughter had Down syndrome. I didn't know when I first gazed at her eyes, that mine would be changed. I didn't know all that was in store for me. I had no way to know of the joy that was to come.
If you want to read a poignant and stirring blog post on adoption, please visit No Greater Joy Mom and her post called Reckless Abandon.
I want these children around the world to know the joy of a home. Of a family. Of kisses from a mom as she tucks them in bed. Of hugs from a Daddy that help them feel secure. Every child needs to be loved. Every child has gifts to give. Every child is a blessing. Please join me in praying for these children that need a family.
Blessings
Leslie
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Answered prayers
Its been almost 4 years ago since sweet Eliana joined our family. I had no idea of all that was coming - but the name we chose for her might have been foretelling. Her name means "My God answers with Joy". I didn't see the answer to my many prayers for her right away, but God has opened my eyes and caused me to see things differently. He took me through much pain and heartache during her rocky first year, but also gave abundant love, laughter and joy in order to mold and shape me in new ways. To help me to understand His heart a little better. To change my focus and priorities. To live life with fewer worries and greater peace. (Now, not that I've *learned* this and do it all well - it's a process!)
In 2007, as Eliana neared her first birthday, we became involved with Reece's Rainbow. We gave money to sponsor a child on the Angel Tree as a gift to some of our family. Little did I know of what was to come. I watched as some of the children got families, but many more were still waiting. In 2008, we chose another child to sponsor. We chose a child with no money in her fund. Someone that had not yet captured the hearts of her parents to be. We chose "Tonya".
Rebecca started our fundraising by choosing to have all of her birthday presents that year be gift money given to Tonya. We continued our tradition of giving to Reece's Rainbow in lieu of gifts for family. The more we prayed for Tonya, the more our hearts grew to love her. As her 4th birthday started coming closer, I began to panic. I wanted her to have a family so badly. I cried for her and prayed for her and pleaded for God to find her a family.
By the Fall of 2009, there was still no family for Tonya and we chose again to sponsor her for Christmas, though in reality, we had never stopped. There is a long story in the midst of this that I'm not going to go into (but can point you to a post if you want the details). In December 2009, a family came forward for Tonya. I began writing to the Mom and she has become a sweet friend. Once again, God's answer wasn't exactly what I had planned, but as time went on, I came to understand that His plan was best.
On September 17th, Tonya came home to be with her forever family. Thank you God!!! (This still brings tears to my eyes!) I'd love for you to meet Totiana.
Isn't she just beautiful?
Oh I look forward to the day when I can give her a big hug!
She also came home with a precious little sister - Adalyn.
Could she be any cuter?!!!
I'm so grateful that God's plans for these beautiful girls was to join a wonderful family! I'm so thankful for my sweet friend Nicole and her dh and their willingness to follow God's plan for their family. I'm thankful too that I'm able to be her friend. I'm thankful for the many pictures I've gotten of these two gorgeous girls. I'm thankful for the opportunity to continue to pray for them. I'm also really hoping that one day we'll all be able to meet in real life!
I still have prayers though that are waiting to be answered. Sometimes God's timing can seem so slow, can't it? Its only in hindsight that we can see that He is never late. Sometimes we are even treated to seeing the "why" in difficult times to see that God has had us in His hands the whole time and that what we thought was for our harm was really a blessing in disguise.
This prayer isn't exactly new though. It's just one waiting to be answered. Would you join me in praying? Meet Anya.
Last year we sponsored a fundraiser for Anya. She is still waiting. Waiting for someone to bring her home. She is getting close to her 4th birthday. Her birthday is just 2 days before Eliana's. She is just a tiny little girl waiting for someone to hug her, put bows in her hair, kiss her sweet face and call her their own.
I've started a chip-in if you would like to donate to helping raise money for Anya's fund. For many families, money is a huge barrier standing in the way of adoption. I'd love to take this obstacle away - or at least make a dent in it! If you contribute $35, you will receive an ornament with a photo of Anya on it. This would make a great gift too! You can pay via paypal through the chip-in in my sidebar which is completely tax deductible. You can also send a check if you prefer.
I know this is a tough subject. I know it is uncomfortable. I also know it is a huge blessing to care for those that God loves so dearly. I'd love to have you join me. There are many more children on the Reece's Rainbow site if you want to visit and see more adorable children. I know God has a plan for these little ones and my heart's desire is that each will be placed in a loving family.
Thank you for reading this far. Please join me in praying.
Blessings
Leslie
In 2007, as Eliana neared her first birthday, we became involved with Reece's Rainbow. We gave money to sponsor a child on the Angel Tree as a gift to some of our family. Little did I know of what was to come. I watched as some of the children got families, but many more were still waiting. In 2008, we chose another child to sponsor. We chose a child with no money in her fund. Someone that had not yet captured the hearts of her parents to be. We chose "Tonya".
Rebecca started our fundraising by choosing to have all of her birthday presents that year be gift money given to Tonya. We continued our tradition of giving to Reece's Rainbow in lieu of gifts for family. The more we prayed for Tonya, the more our hearts grew to love her. As her 4th birthday started coming closer, I began to panic. I wanted her to have a family so badly. I cried for her and prayed for her and pleaded for God to find her a family.
By the Fall of 2009, there was still no family for Tonya and we chose again to sponsor her for Christmas, though in reality, we had never stopped. There is a long story in the midst of this that I'm not going to go into (but can point you to a post if you want the details). In December 2009, a family came forward for Tonya. I began writing to the Mom and she has become a sweet friend. Once again, God's answer wasn't exactly what I had planned, but as time went on, I came to understand that His plan was best.
On September 17th, Tonya came home to be with her forever family. Thank you God!!! (This still brings tears to my eyes!) I'd love for you to meet Totiana.
Isn't she just beautiful?
Oh I look forward to the day when I can give her a big hug!
She also came home with a precious little sister - Adalyn.
Could she be any cuter?!!!
I'm so grateful that God's plans for these beautiful girls was to join a wonderful family! I'm so thankful for my sweet friend Nicole and her dh and their willingness to follow God's plan for their family. I'm thankful too that I'm able to be her friend. I'm thankful for the many pictures I've gotten of these two gorgeous girls. I'm thankful for the opportunity to continue to pray for them. I'm also really hoping that one day we'll all be able to meet in real life!
I still have prayers though that are waiting to be answered. Sometimes God's timing can seem so slow, can't it? Its only in hindsight that we can see that He is never late. Sometimes we are even treated to seeing the "why" in difficult times to see that God has had us in His hands the whole time and that what we thought was for our harm was really a blessing in disguise.
This prayer isn't exactly new though. It's just one waiting to be answered. Would you join me in praying? Meet Anya.
Last year we sponsored a fundraiser for Anya. She is still waiting. Waiting for someone to bring her home. She is getting close to her 4th birthday. Her birthday is just 2 days before Eliana's. She is just a tiny little girl waiting for someone to hug her, put bows in her hair, kiss her sweet face and call her their own.
I've started a chip-in if you would like to donate to helping raise money for Anya's fund. For many families, money is a huge barrier standing in the way of adoption. I'd love to take this obstacle away - or at least make a dent in it! If you contribute $35, you will receive an ornament with a photo of Anya on it. This would make a great gift too! You can pay via paypal through the chip-in in my sidebar which is completely tax deductible. You can also send a check if you prefer.
I know this is a tough subject. I know it is uncomfortable. I also know it is a huge blessing to care for those that God loves so dearly. I'd love to have you join me. There are many more children on the Reece's Rainbow site if you want to visit and see more adorable children. I know God has a plan for these little ones and my heart's desire is that each will be placed in a loving family.
Thank you for reading this far. Please join me in praying.
Blessings
Leslie
Friday, August 6, 2010
Quick update on various things
I know I"ve been a bad blogger. I've really been spending a LOT of time pouring over various books and trying to plan for the upcoming year. I'm also working on goals/plans for my children with special needs. I'm not finished, but I have made great progress. This is shaping up to be the most prepared year I've had.
It hasn't been all work though. We have been attending the free movies as we could. What a real treat! I'm so thankful for this opportunity!
We went to a Lego event nearby with some friends. They had very large games that the kids could try out.
The die was enormous.
And lots of fun to toss.
The games are available at Target and other stores. I think we'll look into this for birthdays or Christmas. They had regular sized displays you could look at of the games.
The big game pieces were quite a hit though.
One game was a giant board that you actually got on to play.
Just a picture of our little cutie!
It was a little odd being on an outing with just my 4 youngest. It's been a long time since I had 4 that were 10 and under. My oldest kids were busy and so we just made some fun on our own!
Rebecca attended a drama camp again this summer. They audition for parts on Monday and go home with a script. By Friday night, they are putting on a performance! It is really amazing what they accomplish in a week. In this play, Rebecca played a "character". Her role was nutty, funny and off-beat - and she did a great job.
I think she had a lot of fun with it too!
This week, I've been writing to a friend in Eastern Europe. Two years ago, I began praying for this little girl.
I fell in love with her just by praying for her. (Can you imagine what God could do in our hearts if we prayed faithfully for each other?!) God called me to pray for this beautiful little girl and I have prayed for her and prayed for her. Well, this week, the family that is committed to her is in her country working on adopting her. They have run into some problems out of their control. Would you join me in praying for them that God would work out all of the details! I know He can do this and she deserves to be in a family!
One last praise - and prayer request. Christopher comes home tomorrow!!! After having been gone for two weeks, we will welcome him home tomorrow. I'm very much looking forward to talking with him and hearing more about his trip. He has really enjoyed his time there and is already talking about going back again! While he was there, he took on additional work to write a paper and take an exam in order to earn college credit. (He was one of only 10 - out of over 180 - that chose to do this.) I'm proud of him for his hard work. More than all of this though, I pray that God would use this time to plant deep seeds of His truth that would bloom and produce much fruit. I'm excited to see what God has in store for him.
He has a long flight home with a couple of layovers. I know he will be tired from a long couple of weeks filled to the brim with lectures and activites (and not lots of sleep it sounds like). Would you pray for his safety? Thank you!
Tomorrow, I'm going shopping with some friends - for school supplies. I love school supplies. I've been working on a list and am hoping to get most of what I need while it's tax free week-end! More on that later.
Hope your week-end is filled with blessings!
Leslie
It hasn't been all work though. We have been attending the free movies as we could. What a real treat! I'm so thankful for this opportunity!
We went to a Lego event nearby with some friends. They had very large games that the kids could try out.
The die was enormous.
And lots of fun to toss.
The games are available at Target and other stores. I think we'll look into this for birthdays or Christmas. They had regular sized displays you could look at of the games.
The big game pieces were quite a hit though.
One game was a giant board that you actually got on to play.
Just a picture of our little cutie!
It was a little odd being on an outing with just my 4 youngest. It's been a long time since I had 4 that were 10 and under. My oldest kids were busy and so we just made some fun on our own!
Rebecca attended a drama camp again this summer. They audition for parts on Monday and go home with a script. By Friday night, they are putting on a performance! It is really amazing what they accomplish in a week. In this play, Rebecca played a "character". Her role was nutty, funny and off-beat - and she did a great job.
I think she had a lot of fun with it too!
This week, I've been writing to a friend in Eastern Europe. Two years ago, I began praying for this little girl.
I fell in love with her just by praying for her. (Can you imagine what God could do in our hearts if we prayed faithfully for each other?!) God called me to pray for this beautiful little girl and I have prayed for her and prayed for her. Well, this week, the family that is committed to her is in her country working on adopting her. They have run into some problems out of their control. Would you join me in praying for them that God would work out all of the details! I know He can do this and she deserves to be in a family!
One last praise - and prayer request. Christopher comes home tomorrow!!! After having been gone for two weeks, we will welcome him home tomorrow. I'm very much looking forward to talking with him and hearing more about his trip. He has really enjoyed his time there and is already talking about going back again! While he was there, he took on additional work to write a paper and take an exam in order to earn college credit. (He was one of only 10 - out of over 180 - that chose to do this.) I'm proud of him for his hard work. More than all of this though, I pray that God would use this time to plant deep seeds of His truth that would bloom and produce much fruit. I'm excited to see what God has in store for him.
He has a long flight home with a couple of layovers. I know he will be tired from a long couple of weeks filled to the brim with lectures and activites (and not lots of sleep it sounds like). Would you pray for his safety? Thank you!
Tomorrow, I'm going shopping with some friends - for school supplies. I love school supplies. I've been working on a list and am hoping to get most of what I need while it's tax free week-end! More on that later.
Hope your week-end is filled with blessings!
Leslie
Thursday, July 1, 2010
And the winner is ...
For the accordian scrapbook
The winner is ... REBECCA
For the numbers scrapbook
The winner is ... KENDRA
Thank you to all who entered. I'll try to get this to you as soon as possible!
Blessings,
Leslie
The winner is ... REBECCA
For the numbers scrapbook
The winner is ... KENDRA
Thank you to all who entered. I'll try to get this to you as soon as possible!
Blessings,
Leslie
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Scrapbook Give Away!
If you haven't yet entered and are interested ... time is running out! The contest ends June 30 at midnight! Please check out the post HERE for pictures of the scrapbooks (there are 2 of them!). All of the money will be going to bring this beautiful little girl HOME!
Thank you for your prayers and for your help!
Blessings
Leslie
PS I posted twice tonight, so scroll down a little farther for my latest post. :)
Thank you for your prayers and for your help!
Blessings
Leslie
PS I posted twice tonight, so scroll down a little farther for my latest post. :)
Church ... Baptism, Orphan Care and more
Thought I'd update some on our church situation. Earlier this month we attended a workshop on membership in the church. We wanted to learn more about what was involved and the beliefs of the church. Christopher, Roger and I all attended. We decided then to move forward to joining the church. I know it has been quick, but God has been clear to confirm that this is the place He wants us to be. We have a peace and excitement being right where He wants us to be. My heart is full and it has been a real blessing!
One of the points of membership was that you needed to be baptized after accepting Christ as your Savior. Roger was baptized as an infant, and decided to get baptized as a believer on Sunday.
He told briefly why he was being baptized and I was suprised to see how emotional this was for him.
I tried to capture the experience, but didn't keep my camera out long enough to catch his excited reaction after the last photo. I do remember it in my mind though. It was a sweet time to share with friends who came to join us.
The last several weeks, the sermons have been on adoption - both on adoption as Children of God as well as the act of adopting children into your family. They have been powerful messages. The church is starting an orphan care ministry. There was an initial meeting last week. Roger and I both decided to go. We really didn't know what to expect. I know that I didn't expect what I saw and heard.
The room was packed with more thany 200 people! The church shared their heart for orphans and desire to have an adoption culture in our church. They want to support people in adoption in various ways. Several families shared their stories of adoption and foster care. We know that we are to care for orphans and we are continueing to look for ways to do that as well as continueing to pray for God's leading in this area! (NOTE: If you want to do something now that will benefit one beautiful little orphan, please see my post on the scrapbook giveaway! You can donate through the chip-in on the right side of my blog.)
This ministry is new and I think the response was overwhelming to everyone there. You can read more about it HERE on the church's blog. It is a great description and I encourage you to take a few minutes to read it.
I also wanted to share a bit about Daniel. He is warming up more and more in church. I see him relaxing a little more (though I still can't leave the room without consequences - they are much shorter now though!). Last week during the worship time, he started signing to the songs and moving around like the other children. It just blessed my heart. Even the worship leader noticed and said something to me. (She is a mom of a sensory kid too.) A small step, but a big one too.
Thank you God for the work you are doing in our lives. Thank you for leading us and blessing us. I pray that we will continue to have hearts open to hear you and spirits willing to follow. I'm so thankful for all He has done for us!
With love,
Leslie
One of the points of membership was that you needed to be baptized after accepting Christ as your Savior. Roger was baptized as an infant, and decided to get baptized as a believer on Sunday.
He told briefly why he was being baptized and I was suprised to see how emotional this was for him.
I tried to capture the experience, but didn't keep my camera out long enough to catch his excited reaction after the last photo. I do remember it in my mind though. It was a sweet time to share with friends who came to join us.
The last several weeks, the sermons have been on adoption - both on adoption as Children of God as well as the act of adopting children into your family. They have been powerful messages. The church is starting an orphan care ministry. There was an initial meeting last week. Roger and I both decided to go. We really didn't know what to expect. I know that I didn't expect what I saw and heard.
The room was packed with more thany 200 people! The church shared their heart for orphans and desire to have an adoption culture in our church. They want to support people in adoption in various ways. Several families shared their stories of adoption and foster care. We know that we are to care for orphans and we are continueing to look for ways to do that as well as continueing to pray for God's leading in this area! (NOTE: If you want to do something now that will benefit one beautiful little orphan, please see my post on the scrapbook giveaway! You can donate through the chip-in on the right side of my blog.)
This ministry is new and I think the response was overwhelming to everyone there. You can read more about it HERE on the church's blog. It is a great description and I encourage you to take a few minutes to read it.
I also wanted to share a bit about Daniel. He is warming up more and more in church. I see him relaxing a little more (though I still can't leave the room without consequences - they are much shorter now though!). Last week during the worship time, he started signing to the songs and moving around like the other children. It just blessed my heart. Even the worship leader noticed and said something to me. (She is a mom of a sensory kid too.) A small step, but a big one too.
Thank you God for the work you are doing in our lives. Thank you for leading us and blessing us. I pray that we will continue to have hearts open to hear you and spirits willing to follow. I'm so thankful for all He has done for us!
With love,
Leslie
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Scrapbook Giveaway for Tonya
For those of you who have known me (here or IRL for at least 6 months), you are familiar with precious Tonya. She is a beautiful little girl living in an orphanage in Eastern Europe waiting for her forever family to come get her. I started praying for her in the Fall of 2008. Rebecca wanted to sponsor a child for her 13th birthday in lieu of getting gifts. We looked over the pictures and chose Tonya. She was getting older (3+) and there wasn't a family interested in her (that we knew of).
Rebecca donated her money and we began to pray for her daily and to support her fund all in hopes of helping her to find a family. As we did this over many months, we fell in love with this beautiful child. While I had hoped that she might join our family, this was not to be. Another precious family has committed to bring her home. I'm blessed that Nicole (Tonya's mom) and I have gotten to know each other via email. I'm thrilled to be able to be a small part of her life - and do hope that we'll be able to meet in real life one day!
The Niemiec family has been working to raise funds to bring Tonya home. This is a tough and daunting job as the cost of an adoption often costs $24,000 or more. Will you join me in helping to bring Tonya home? I know she will thrive and grow as a part of the Niemiec family. They hope to be travelling soon to get sweet Tonya.
Here are the rules for the giveaway. If you would like to donate money to their fund, you can do so in one of two ways - chip-in or check sent in the mail.
1. You will be entered into the drawing 1 time for each $5 donation you make. The minimum donation using chip-in is $10. If you want to make a donation smaller than $10, please mail a check to the following address:
Reece’s Rainbow
PO Box 4024
Gaithersburg, MD 20885
The reason for this is that the paypal fees for donations under $10 is 30 percent! We want as much money as possible going to help Tonya and not paid as fees! If you do mail a check, would you let me know so that I can enter your name in the drawing? Also please note that it is for Tonya for the Niemiec family
2. If you share this giveaway on your blog or facebook page, you will get an entry for that too. Just post a comment here letting me know what you have done that so I can enter your name.
3. The giveaway will be open until June 30 at midnight!
Any donation you make is tax deductible!
Now for the giveaway. I'm going to be giving away TWO handmade scrapbook albums. All donations will be entered into the drawing for both albums.
FIRST ALBUM - This is a three ring binder with 5 chipboard pages measuring 5.5 x 8.5. The paper is a great outdoorsy collection with navy, greens and reds. It is designed as a "counting" book. You can count anything - birthdays, favorite somethings, Top 10 things you love about someone, the ideas are endless. If you have others ideas and would like me to post them - please share.
Here is the cover. I would be happy to personalize it with whatever words you would like.
The first page in the album. All of the pages have room for a photo and space for journaling (writing something down).
Following are pictures of the rest of the pages in the album. If anyone has questions, please post them. I haven't done anything like this before and could be easily overlooking a lot of details!
These would make great gifts! I love giving small albums to people (filled with pictures) as a gift from my heart.
SECOND ALBUM - This is an accordian-style album with a front and back cover and six inside pages. The paper is a cheerful collection of prints in red, garden green and buttercup yellow.
Here is the cover.
This is a view from the top.
Inside pages.
This is the back cover and the two pages on the back side of the album. Not a great photo, but hopefully you can see a little bit.
jkljkl
Rebecca donated her money and we began to pray for her daily and to support her fund all in hopes of helping her to find a family. As we did this over many months, we fell in love with this beautiful child. While I had hoped that she might join our family, this was not to be. Another precious family has committed to bring her home. I'm blessed that Nicole (Tonya's mom) and I have gotten to know each other via email. I'm thrilled to be able to be a small part of her life - and do hope that we'll be able to meet in real life one day!
The Niemiec family has been working to raise funds to bring Tonya home. This is a tough and daunting job as the cost of an adoption often costs $24,000 or more. Will you join me in helping to bring Tonya home? I know she will thrive and grow as a part of the Niemiec family. They hope to be travelling soon to get sweet Tonya.
Here are the rules for the giveaway. If you would like to donate money to their fund, you can do so in one of two ways - chip-in or check sent in the mail.
1. You will be entered into the drawing 1 time for each $5 donation you make. The minimum donation using chip-in is $10. If you want to make a donation smaller than $10, please mail a check to the following address:
Reece’s Rainbow
PO Box 4024
Gaithersburg, MD 20885
The reason for this is that the paypal fees for donations under $10 is 30 percent! We want as much money as possible going to help Tonya and not paid as fees! If you do mail a check, would you let me know so that I can enter your name in the drawing? Also please note that it is for Tonya for the Niemiec family
2. If you share this giveaway on your blog or facebook page, you will get an entry for that too. Just post a comment here letting me know what you have done that so I can enter your name.
3. The giveaway will be open until June 30 at midnight!
Any donation you make is tax deductible!
Now for the giveaway. I'm going to be giving away TWO handmade scrapbook albums. All donations will be entered into the drawing for both albums.
FIRST ALBUM - This is a three ring binder with 5 chipboard pages measuring 5.5 x 8.5. The paper is a great outdoorsy collection with navy, greens and reds. It is designed as a "counting" book. You can count anything - birthdays, favorite somethings, Top 10 things you love about someone, the ideas are endless. If you have others ideas and would like me to post them - please share.
Here is the cover. I would be happy to personalize it with whatever words you would like.
The first page in the album. All of the pages have room for a photo and space for journaling (writing something down).
Following are pictures of the rest of the pages in the album. If anyone has questions, please post them. I haven't done anything like this before and could be easily overlooking a lot of details!
These would make great gifts! I love giving small albums to people (filled with pictures) as a gift from my heart.
SECOND ALBUM - This is an accordian-style album with a front and back cover and six inside pages. The paper is a cheerful collection of prints in red, garden green and buttercup yellow.
Here is the cover.
This is a view from the top.
Inside pages.
This is the back cover and the two pages on the back side of the album. Not a great photo, but hopefully you can see a little bit.
jkljkl
Monday, June 7, 2010
Fatherless
This was the word I saw when I opened the church bulletin this week-end. It startled me and I started to weep. I had not expected a sermon on this topic even though I had been talking to God about that very thing this week. (He continues to meet me in places that surprise me and I'm not sure why I'm surprised. Well, yes I do. He has been silent for awhile on some things and just lately, he seems to be so very vocal - and I'm loving it!)
The sermon was on part of the story of Ruth. He also used the verse James 1:27.
Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27
The book of James. This is the book that God had me pour over when I was pregnant with Eliana. A book I studied not really sure what God was preparing me for. I didn't know I was heading into what would be the most difficult times of my life (to date). I'm encouraged at the ways He has used this book to remind me, prod me and comfort me.
OK, back to the sermon. The pastor described this as the heart of the gospel. This is pure religion - caring for orphans and widows. He went on to say that if you aren't caring for them, your faith is not real. A bold statement to be true. There are so many ways we can care for these who are so close to God's heart. The pastor also stated that genuine religion will lead you to love and sacrifice for those in need.
Adoption is such a beautiful picture of what God has done for us. Where would we be without Jesus? We would be lost and alone in our sins with no hope, no comfort and no healing. Yet, while we were still sinners, God sent His son to die for us and He adopted us into His family! Thank you God for doing this for me!
He shared a powerful story of a couple who was planning to adopt a child. When it became known late in the pregnancy that the child had significant birth defects and might not live long after birth, they were given a choice. As this couple prayed and sought God's will, there was a dream. In the dream, there was a massive football stadium filled with people. Loud and cheering people. One by one, babies were brought into the stadium - beautiful babies. "Who wants this one?" People would volunteer to come forward and take the child. This continued until a child was brought in that was not beautiful, but was ugly, deformed and scarred. "Who wants this one?" The crowd was silent and still. No one wanted this child. Finally standing up on the front row, Jesus walked forward and said "I want this one." Then she looked again at the child and got a closer look. She was surprised to see that the child no one seemed to want, was her. He stood up for her. He stood up for me. He stood up for you too!
He loves us just as we are - not because of who we are or what we have done. He loves us because of who He is - He is love.
An orphan ministry is being started at this church. That was another sweet thing to my heart and I've signed up to be involved. I know God has a plan for planting this passion in my heart and I want to be available to where He will have me help.
For those of you who have known me or read my blog for at least 6 months, you will remember Tonya. Beautiful Tonya.
She is an orphan with Down syndrome in Eastern Europe. I have loved and prayed for this sweet girl for 1.75 years. Yes, I remember when I started praying for her. God placed her on my heart. She has a precious family that is working hard so that they can hopefully go get her soon! They need help in meeting the financial challenges associated with international adoption. I'm planning on posting a give-away/drawing for two beautiful handmade scrapbooks. I'll post hopefully in the next day or two. I'm trying to figure out how to get a chip-in on my blog and as soon as that is ironed out, I'll post the details. Please be on the look-out and I hope you'll share it with your friends. This is one of many ways that we can show our love of God, by supporting this family in their adoption.
If you want to hear this sermon for yourself, you can find it here. It is entitled "I am Adopted" and the date is 6/4/2010
http://www.summitrdu.com/sermons
Please join me in praying for orphans. Lets all ask God where and how He wants us to serve orphans and widow. We know this is pleasing to Him.
Blessings
Leslie
The sermon was on part of the story of Ruth. He also used the verse James 1:27.
Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27
The book of James. This is the book that God had me pour over when I was pregnant with Eliana. A book I studied not really sure what God was preparing me for. I didn't know I was heading into what would be the most difficult times of my life (to date). I'm encouraged at the ways He has used this book to remind me, prod me and comfort me.
OK, back to the sermon. The pastor described this as the heart of the gospel. This is pure religion - caring for orphans and widows. He went on to say that if you aren't caring for them, your faith is not real. A bold statement to be true. There are so many ways we can care for these who are so close to God's heart. The pastor also stated that genuine religion will lead you to love and sacrifice for those in need.
Adoption is such a beautiful picture of what God has done for us. Where would we be without Jesus? We would be lost and alone in our sins with no hope, no comfort and no healing. Yet, while we were still sinners, God sent His son to die for us and He adopted us into His family! Thank you God for doing this for me!
He shared a powerful story of a couple who was planning to adopt a child. When it became known late in the pregnancy that the child had significant birth defects and might not live long after birth, they were given a choice. As this couple prayed and sought God's will, there was a dream. In the dream, there was a massive football stadium filled with people. Loud and cheering people. One by one, babies were brought into the stadium - beautiful babies. "Who wants this one?" People would volunteer to come forward and take the child. This continued until a child was brought in that was not beautiful, but was ugly, deformed and scarred. "Who wants this one?" The crowd was silent and still. No one wanted this child. Finally standing up on the front row, Jesus walked forward and said "I want this one." Then she looked again at the child and got a closer look. She was surprised to see that the child no one seemed to want, was her. He stood up for her. He stood up for me. He stood up for you too!
He loves us just as we are - not because of who we are or what we have done. He loves us because of who He is - He is love.
An orphan ministry is being started at this church. That was another sweet thing to my heart and I've signed up to be involved. I know God has a plan for planting this passion in my heart and I want to be available to where He will have me help.
For those of you who have known me or read my blog for at least 6 months, you will remember Tonya. Beautiful Tonya.
She is an orphan with Down syndrome in Eastern Europe. I have loved and prayed for this sweet girl for 1.75 years. Yes, I remember when I started praying for her. God placed her on my heart. She has a precious family that is working hard so that they can hopefully go get her soon! They need help in meeting the financial challenges associated with international adoption. I'm planning on posting a give-away/drawing for two beautiful handmade scrapbooks. I'll post hopefully in the next day or two. I'm trying to figure out how to get a chip-in on my blog and as soon as that is ironed out, I'll post the details. Please be on the look-out and I hope you'll share it with your friends. This is one of many ways that we can show our love of God, by supporting this family in their adoption.
If you want to hear this sermon for yourself, you can find it here. It is entitled "I am Adopted" and the date is 6/4/2010
http://www.summitrdu.com/sermons
Please join me in praying for orphans. Lets all ask God where and how He wants us to serve orphans and widow. We know this is pleasing to Him.
Blessings
Leslie
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
New Year Warrior - Anya
I know, I posted just a couple of days ago that I was going to post new info on Ashleigh. Well, I do have information to share on Ashleigh ...
a family has committed to her!!!
So very exciting and what an answer to prayer! Since she has a family now fundraising for her, we are going to turn our efforts to another little girl. Anya. She is in the same orphanage as Ashleigh.
Isn't she cute? I've been told that she received money during the Angel Tree last year and again this year, but nothing in between. Her grant is small and we would love to do what we can to change that!
Anya just celebrated her 3rd birthday. Just two days before our little Eliana. Here is the information listed on the reecesrainbow site about Anya.
Girl, Born December 14, 2006
a family has committed to her!!!
So very exciting and what an answer to prayer! Since she has a family now fundraising for her, we are going to turn our efforts to another little girl. Anya. She is in the same orphanage as Ashleigh.
Isn't she cute? I've been told that she received money during the Angel Tree last year and again this year, but nothing in between. Her grant is small and we would love to do what we can to change that!
Anya just celebrated her 3rd birthday. Just two days before our little Eliana. Here is the information listed on the reecesrainbow site about Anya.
Girl, Born December 14, 2006
Anya is a pretty little girl with unique facial features. She was born with a minor defect of interventricular and interatrial septum. A family visiting with her felt she may have some autistic tendencies, but it is also possible she has adual diagnosis of Moebius Syndrome. We are trying to confirm this. http://www.faces-cranio.org/Disord/Moebius.htm
There is no blood test to confirm Moebius, so it is diagnosed on clinical symptoms such as a lack of facial expression
and a uniquely shaped nose.
I've posted a new chip-in in my sidebar if you would like to donate. All money will go directly to Reeces Rainbow and is tax deductible. Rebecca has made a lovely necklace that we will be posting about in a few days that we hope to use to raise some money.
Please join me in praying for Anya and the others like her that would love to be living in a home with a family. Please consider helping to make a difference in the life of this little girl. Due to paypal fees we've been asked that donations be at least $10. Sorry about that. If you would like to donate a smaller amount you can do that by sending a check.
Reeces Rainbow
P.O. Box 4024
Gaithersburg, MD 20885
Thank you!
Leslie
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
He said No
I can't tell you how long I've dreamed of a different title to a post - "He said YES!". I've hoped, waited and prayed for this for over a year.
Last fall, while looking at the Reece's Rainbow site, Rebecca and I were looking for a little girl to sponsor. One that didn't have much, if any, money in her grant fund and one that needed support and prayers. We chose Tonya.
I loved the picture of this spunky-looking little girl. She was already past 3 years of age and could be sent to an institution to live when she turned 4. I really believed she needed someone to commit to her by Christmas. I began praying for her daily, faithfully.
I should mention that I've been interested in adopting for awhile and especially since we were blessed with Eliana. Even a year ago, I dreamed of adopting a little girl with Down syndrome. I must confess though that I probably wouldn't have picked Tonya because I though I'd like someone younger than Eliana. It's funny what prayer will do to your heart though. The more I prayed for Tonya, the more I began to fall in love with her. I know it must sound silly to some of you reading and I can't explain it. She feels like a daughter of my heart.
Last Christmas I so hoped that my gift might be a "yes" to adopting Tonya. As time passed, I continued to hope, and dream and pray. My prayers began in just wanting a family for her, but as time passed, I also greatly wanted the family to be ours. I can just imagine her here playing with Eliana, sharing toys, crawling up into my lap and just being loved.
Fast forward to this Christmas. There is a family adopting from the orphange in which Tonya lives. They took new photos of her.
This created a great interest in Tonya and much money has been donated to her grant fund. I knew in my heart that her huge grant would cause someone to come forward. I still hoped and prayed it might be us.
Roger has also been praying about this decision for a long while too. This week-end, we really committed to pray. We were both praying and asking for a sign from God to let us know what we should do. I was honestly scared that there would be no sign. I was frustrated that I'd been praying for over a year and He had done nothing! I was afraid of what would happen to my heart if nothing happened.
Over the week-end, we prayed and talked like we haven't done in a long time. It was much needed for our marriage and sweet as well. It was something that happened because of a little girl in a far away country that we have never seen. She was able to do for us something that all of the trials and tribulations we have faced with our children could never do - draw us closer to each other and to God.
On Sunday night, Roger thought we should adopt her. Almost immediatly I became sick and stayed that way through the night and much of the following morning. I felt better by afternoon after talking with a precious friend. We knew we needed to decide quickly if we wanted the decision to be ours. We decided to say yes! I was elated!
I emailed to tell of our decision and we began to talk details. We knew that Roger's age was a few months past the limit of the country's requirements. We'd been told that was something that could be worked around. Then I was asked if I had income and told that was also a requirement. I was devastated. Crushed. Of course, my answer was no, no income. I'm a stay at home mom. Was there anything that could be done? I was told that they would ask the officials in country and get back to us. Another night of many prayers.
I was confused (and in some ways still am). I didn't sleep much and just spent a lot of the night praying. I was also sick again. I begged God that if this was not to be the path for us (adoption) that He would close the door. It seemed an easy thing to me. He could not allow us to have a loophole and we would know what His will was in the matter. It seemed clear.
Again today, many prayers. Many. Early this evening, we heard back. They could work around the requirement! Hope! Is this the sign we had been asking for? I knew that a no would mean that the adoption could never happen. Was this the yes?
Time for more prayer. Asking God for peace, clarity and wisdom. Also asking for Him to give us the same heart. This has been my prayer for so very long. Years. During all of this time of praying, I also came to realize that I had to give my desire for Tonya to God. She is His. He loves her more than I can even fathom.
As we prayed we talked about things from all angles. I know all of the many reasons that we shouldn't adopt.
*We don't have the money - though the large grant would help so much!
*My/our plate is full with the many medical/special needs we are already dealing with.
*It would be hard for some of our family and friends and thus hard for us without their support.
As I prayed though, I was lead to a verse in 2 Timothy, where it states that God does not have a spirit of timidity, but one of love and power. I thought of our fears and wondered if this was truly God cautioning us.
This is a huge decision. A life-altering one. We both wanted to do His will. We both wanted to follow where He was leading. We both wanted peace and to have the same heart. I wish I could say that these prayers were all answered.
As we prayed, I came to think that the door was opened due to the answer we got when it looked so very closed. I know that God would bless us for stepping out in faith to follow. I knew this would test our faith and would teach us much. I was ready to commit.
When I turned and looked at Roger, I knew he was not feeling the same way. He just said "I'm sorry."
We told the children and Rebecca was also deeply saddened. She has been praying for this little girl a lot too. She has a heart much like mine.
I would be lying if I said everything was fine. I'm crushed and heartbroken. For a brief time, we said yes and she was going to be our daughter. I have hoped for this time for so long. Something to be excited about, to look forward to.
I'm thankful that there appears to be another family ready to adopt her. I've prayed for this for a long time. I'm not sure what God is going to do in our lives now. My heart is feeling battered once again. I feel crushed. I'm thankful for the things He has taught me through this beautiful little girl. My heart will never be the same for having prayed for and loved her.
God bless you precious Tonya! I know He loves you so much more than I do and that He has a plan for your life. I'm thankful to have been a part of it.
With love
Leslie
Last fall, while looking at the Reece's Rainbow site, Rebecca and I were looking for a little girl to sponsor. One that didn't have much, if any, money in her grant fund and one that needed support and prayers. We chose Tonya.
I loved the picture of this spunky-looking little girl. She was already past 3 years of age and could be sent to an institution to live when she turned 4. I really believed she needed someone to commit to her by Christmas. I began praying for her daily, faithfully.
I should mention that I've been interested in adopting for awhile and especially since we were blessed with Eliana. Even a year ago, I dreamed of adopting a little girl with Down syndrome. I must confess though that I probably wouldn't have picked Tonya because I though I'd like someone younger than Eliana. It's funny what prayer will do to your heart though. The more I prayed for Tonya, the more I began to fall in love with her. I know it must sound silly to some of you reading and I can't explain it. She feels like a daughter of my heart.
Last Christmas I so hoped that my gift might be a "yes" to adopting Tonya. As time passed, I continued to hope, and dream and pray. My prayers began in just wanting a family for her, but as time passed, I also greatly wanted the family to be ours. I can just imagine her here playing with Eliana, sharing toys, crawling up into my lap and just being loved.
Fast forward to this Christmas. There is a family adopting from the orphange in which Tonya lives. They took new photos of her.
This created a great interest in Tonya and much money has been donated to her grant fund. I knew in my heart that her huge grant would cause someone to come forward. I still hoped and prayed it might be us.
Roger has also been praying about this decision for a long while too. This week-end, we really committed to pray. We were both praying and asking for a sign from God to let us know what we should do. I was honestly scared that there would be no sign. I was frustrated that I'd been praying for over a year and He had done nothing! I was afraid of what would happen to my heart if nothing happened.
Over the week-end, we prayed and talked like we haven't done in a long time. It was much needed for our marriage and sweet as well. It was something that happened because of a little girl in a far away country that we have never seen. She was able to do for us something that all of the trials and tribulations we have faced with our children could never do - draw us closer to each other and to God.
On Sunday night, Roger thought we should adopt her. Almost immediatly I became sick and stayed that way through the night and much of the following morning. I felt better by afternoon after talking with a precious friend. We knew we needed to decide quickly if we wanted the decision to be ours. We decided to say yes! I was elated!
I emailed to tell of our decision and we began to talk details. We knew that Roger's age was a few months past the limit of the country's requirements. We'd been told that was something that could be worked around. Then I was asked if I had income and told that was also a requirement. I was devastated. Crushed. Of course, my answer was no, no income. I'm a stay at home mom. Was there anything that could be done? I was told that they would ask the officials in country and get back to us. Another night of many prayers.
I was confused (and in some ways still am). I didn't sleep much and just spent a lot of the night praying. I was also sick again. I begged God that if this was not to be the path for us (adoption) that He would close the door. It seemed an easy thing to me. He could not allow us to have a loophole and we would know what His will was in the matter. It seemed clear.
Again today, many prayers. Many. Early this evening, we heard back. They could work around the requirement! Hope! Is this the sign we had been asking for? I knew that a no would mean that the adoption could never happen. Was this the yes?
Time for more prayer. Asking God for peace, clarity and wisdom. Also asking for Him to give us the same heart. This has been my prayer for so very long. Years. During all of this time of praying, I also came to realize that I had to give my desire for Tonya to God. She is His. He loves her more than I can even fathom.
As we prayed we talked about things from all angles. I know all of the many reasons that we shouldn't adopt.
*We don't have the money - though the large grant would help so much!
*My/our plate is full with the many medical/special needs we are already dealing with.
*It would be hard for some of our family and friends and thus hard for us without their support.
As I prayed though, I was lead to a verse in 2 Timothy, where it states that God does not have a spirit of timidity, but one of love and power. I thought of our fears and wondered if this was truly God cautioning us.
This is a huge decision. A life-altering one. We both wanted to do His will. We both wanted to follow where He was leading. We both wanted peace and to have the same heart. I wish I could say that these prayers were all answered.
As we prayed, I came to think that the door was opened due to the answer we got when it looked so very closed. I know that God would bless us for stepping out in faith to follow. I knew this would test our faith and would teach us much. I was ready to commit.
When I turned and looked at Roger, I knew he was not feeling the same way. He just said "I'm sorry."
We told the children and Rebecca was also deeply saddened. She has been praying for this little girl a lot too. She has a heart much like mine.
I would be lying if I said everything was fine. I'm crushed and heartbroken. For a brief time, we said yes and she was going to be our daughter. I have hoped for this time for so long. Something to be excited about, to look forward to.
I'm thankful that there appears to be another family ready to adopt her. I've prayed for this for a long time. I'm not sure what God is going to do in our lives now. My heart is feeling battered once again. I feel crushed. I'm thankful for the things He has taught me through this beautiful little girl. My heart will never be the same for having prayed for and loved her.
God bless you precious Tonya! I know He loves you so much more than I do and that He has a plan for your life. I'm thankful to have been a part of it.
With love
Leslie
Saturday, December 5, 2009
I've added a Chip In
It's to the right in the sidebar of my blog. I can't figure out how to do it in a post. (If anyone knows, I would love the help.) If you would like to donate money to help bring Tonya home, you can do it right there. All donations are tax deductible. Thank you for considering this! Any amount is truly appreciated.
If any of you want to post this chip-in on your blog, I'd love for you to do that. Or if you want to post about it on Facebook, twitter or your blog, please feel free to do that.
We have more coming - hopefully tomorrow - about a fundraising idea for Tonya. I'll give you a hint, my oldest daughter has made something beautiful that we hope will help raise some money!
Blessings,
Leslie
If any of you want to post this chip-in on your blog, I'd love for you to do that. Or if you want to post about it on Facebook, twitter or your blog, please feel free to do that.
We have more coming - hopefully tomorrow - about a fundraising idea for Tonya. I'll give you a hint, my oldest daughter has made something beautiful that we hope will help raise some money!
Blessings,
Leslie
Friday, December 4, 2009
All I want for Christmas ...
Have you heard this yet? What do you want for Christmas? If you have children, you've probably heard it or maybe even asked it. It's not a surprising question. When we are stumped we often want to know what will really please someone we love. We want them to know that we hear their heart and understand. It is a sweet thing to be known and understood.
When I ponder on Christmas and gifts, I confess that it leaves me feeling a bit overwhelmed. There are a lot of reasons - from money to time to even the need.
When it comes down to my heart, there is really just one thing I want. Now, before I list it, I don't want you to think that there aren't other things that I would be thankful to have or even see as a need. There are those things too. (A chair that need to be replaced before it falls apart, carpet that needs cleaning, a gift card to Panera to enjoy a little treat, etc.) I would glad give up all that and more for just one thing.
Those that know me well, will see this as no surprise.
I want this precious little girl, Tonya, to have a family. (And yes, I would love for it to be ours!)
I want her to know how much she is loved by someone who will wrap their arms around her and hold her tight. I want to her feel kisses on her face and tickles on her toes. I want her to see the joy and love for her in the eyes of parents and siblings. I want her to have a family.
I've prayed for this little girl for over a year. During that time, I've fallen in love with her - as much as one can from just a picture and lots of prayers. There have been many tears shed for her. Why? Well, her fate is grim. She is already past her 4th birthday which puts her in line for a trip to an institution. A place where she will receive no stimulation, no affection, nothing. Most children die within the first year. It is a horrible fate. It makes me weep. It is all because she has Down syndrome.
There are many children like Tonya facing a similar fate. Far too many. She is just the face of an orphan for me. Will you please consider doing something? Would you consider making a difference in the life of this child?
If you donate $35 (it is deductible on your taxes) to Reece's Rainbow, you will receive an ornament with a picture of Tonya (or any child you sponsor) on it. It makes a lovely Christmas gift. Think of those who really don't need "more" or those who have a heart that would be blessed knowing that you have given to a child in their name.
***I've added a "chip in" to the right of this post in the sidebar of my blog. If you would like to make a donation to Tonya, you can do it right there. These are tax deductible donations as well. Thank you for considering this.
For many families, the cost of adoption is prohibitive. It costs about $24.000 for an international adoption. It's not in the budget of most people I know. Yet, I've seen families do it. I've seen many trust God to raise the funds so that they can make a difference. I know I might not be able to make a difference to all these children, but maybe I can make a difference in the life of one child.
For those who may be wondering, we are prayerfully considering what God is asking of us. We would love for you to join us in praying for a clear sign of what God wants us to do. We know that He has called us to care for orphans and there are many ways to do that from giving money to praying to adopting. Just waiting to find out if God is willing to send us.
Blessings
Leslie
When I ponder on Christmas and gifts, I confess that it leaves me feeling a bit overwhelmed. There are a lot of reasons - from money to time to even the need.
When it comes down to my heart, there is really just one thing I want. Now, before I list it, I don't want you to think that there aren't other things that I would be thankful to have or even see as a need. There are those things too. (A chair that need to be replaced before it falls apart, carpet that needs cleaning, a gift card to Panera to enjoy a little treat, etc.) I would glad give up all that and more for just one thing.
Those that know me well, will see this as no surprise.
I want this precious little girl, Tonya, to have a family. (And yes, I would love for it to be ours!)
I want her to know how much she is loved by someone who will wrap their arms around her and hold her tight. I want to her feel kisses on her face and tickles on her toes. I want her to see the joy and love for her in the eyes of parents and siblings. I want her to have a family.
I've prayed for this little girl for over a year. During that time, I've fallen in love with her - as much as one can from just a picture and lots of prayers. There have been many tears shed for her. Why? Well, her fate is grim. She is already past her 4th birthday which puts her in line for a trip to an institution. A place where she will receive no stimulation, no affection, nothing. Most children die within the first year. It is a horrible fate. It makes me weep. It is all because she has Down syndrome.
There are many children like Tonya facing a similar fate. Far too many. She is just the face of an orphan for me. Will you please consider doing something? Would you consider making a difference in the life of this child?
If you donate $35 (it is deductible on your taxes) to Reece's Rainbow, you will receive an ornament with a picture of Tonya (or any child you sponsor) on it. It makes a lovely Christmas gift. Think of those who really don't need "more" or those who have a heart that would be blessed knowing that you have given to a child in their name.
***I've added a "chip in" to the right of this post in the sidebar of my blog. If you would like to make a donation to Tonya, you can do it right there. These are tax deductible donations as well. Thank you for considering this.
For many families, the cost of adoption is prohibitive. It costs about $24.000 for an international adoption. It's not in the budget of most people I know. Yet, I've seen families do it. I've seen many trust God to raise the funds so that they can make a difference. I know I might not be able to make a difference to all these children, but maybe I can make a difference in the life of one child.
For those who may be wondering, we are prayerfully considering what God is asking of us. We would love for you to join us in praying for a clear sign of what God wants us to do. We know that He has called us to care for orphans and there are many ways to do that from giving money to praying to adopting. Just waiting to find out if God is willing to send us.
Blessings
Leslie
Friday, July 24, 2009
Happy Birthday
Just reading those words probably brings up thoughts, memories, images of years gone by. I'm guessing most of you have happy memories associated with these words. I know that I do. I think of ...
candles - and a little one trying hard to blow them all out
cake - especially that one for the first birthday smeared all over your face
party - a time to share with family and friends
gifts - a squeal of delight to know you have been given something undeserved
attention - for a day anyway, the focus is on you. Who doesn't enjoy a little positive attention.
so many sweet memories of birthdays ...
My birthday is coming up soon (next month), but that isn't why I'm thinking about birthdays now. Also coming up is the birthday of a little girl that I have grown to love. I didn't intend to fall in love with her. I've never met her and I know very little about her. I've prayed for her faithfully for almost a year though and in that year, I've fallen in love with a little girl living across an ocean and far away. A little girl called Tonya.
I started off just wanting to make a difference in the life of another child with Down syndrome. God has called us to care for orphans and one way our family has done this is to sponsor children in lieu of gift giving at Christmas. Last fall, as we looked over the listing of children, we chose a child that seemed to be in great need. She was 3 years old and her listing said she was at significant risk and needed to be adopted soon. I began to pray. I didn't know that the power of prayer would lead to more than just concern or sympathy, but love for this child I don't know.
She has beautiful dark eyes. I wonder if she has even seen a candle or a birthday cake. She has such cute chubbie cheeks. Does anyone ever kiss them? I wonder so many things. Is she loved? Does she like to laugh? Does she have much to laugh about? Does she like to play outside? Has she ever been given a gift? Will she ever know the love of a family?
I can't tell you how many times I've cried as I pray for sweet little Tonya. I pray, urge, and yes, beg for God to send her family to go get her. I pray that she will be safe and kept in the baby house (orphanage) until a family can bring her home.
Why the tears? Well, beside the obvious of her needing a family, is the fate of this precious child if she doesn't get a family. At age 4, she can be transferred to an institution. Here, she will most likely die within the first year. I've been told that death is a blessing as some of these places are just horrible. I can't type more as I'm crying now just thinking about it.
Sweet Tonya's birthday is next week. She will be four. Will you join me in storming the gates of heaven for this precious child? I so want for her to have a family to love her, to sing happy birthday and to give her the life that every child deserves.
It's not just this sweet child. There are thousands more all over the world that need someone to step forward and bring them home. Please pray for these children. Please pray about what you can do to help one of these beautiful children. We can't change the world, but perhaps we can change the world for one child.
With love
Leslie
candles - and a little one trying hard to blow them all out
cake - especially that one for the first birthday smeared all over your face
party - a time to share with family and friends
gifts - a squeal of delight to know you have been given something undeserved
attention - for a day anyway, the focus is on you. Who doesn't enjoy a little positive attention.
so many sweet memories of birthdays ...
My birthday is coming up soon (next month), but that isn't why I'm thinking about birthdays now. Also coming up is the birthday of a little girl that I have grown to love. I didn't intend to fall in love with her. I've never met her and I know very little about her. I've prayed for her faithfully for almost a year though and in that year, I've fallen in love with a little girl living across an ocean and far away. A little girl called Tonya.
I started off just wanting to make a difference in the life of another child with Down syndrome. God has called us to care for orphans and one way our family has done this is to sponsor children in lieu of gift giving at Christmas. Last fall, as we looked over the listing of children, we chose a child that seemed to be in great need. She was 3 years old and her listing said she was at significant risk and needed to be adopted soon. I began to pray. I didn't know that the power of prayer would lead to more than just concern or sympathy, but love for this child I don't know.
She has beautiful dark eyes. I wonder if she has even seen a candle or a birthday cake. She has such cute chubbie cheeks. Does anyone ever kiss them? I wonder so many things. Is she loved? Does she like to laugh? Does she have much to laugh about? Does she like to play outside? Has she ever been given a gift? Will she ever know the love of a family?
I can't tell you how many times I've cried as I pray for sweet little Tonya. I pray, urge, and yes, beg for God to send her family to go get her. I pray that she will be safe and kept in the baby house (orphanage) until a family can bring her home.
Why the tears? Well, beside the obvious of her needing a family, is the fate of this precious child if she doesn't get a family. At age 4, she can be transferred to an institution. Here, she will most likely die within the first year. I've been told that death is a blessing as some of these places are just horrible. I can't type more as I'm crying now just thinking about it.
Sweet Tonya's birthday is next week. She will be four. Will you join me in storming the gates of heaven for this precious child? I so want for her to have a family to love her, to sing happy birthday and to give her the life that every child deserves.
It's not just this sweet child. There are thousands more all over the world that need someone to step forward and bring them home. Please pray for these children. Please pray about what you can do to help one of these beautiful children. We can't change the world, but perhaps we can change the world for one child.
With love
Leslie
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