Mixed Nuts

Please pray for Ollie.....

2012-01-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

Sweet Ollie is having a hard time.....harder to get around...harder to breath....harder to eat....

And yet....he keeps his sweet smile...and his amazing sense of humor.

Please pray for him....as he knows what's happening to his body...and he's scared.

The steroids are taking a toll on his body...stretching his skin until it opens :(

This is still the sweet boy thats living in the body that DIPG has ravaged.

http://www.oliverpalmer.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2012-01-27T01:41:00-08:00&max-results=1

It's COLD up here in MN

2012-01-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

Just ask Summer :) The beginning of winter there was NO way she was going to wear this snowsuit...because it looked like a boys :)
But after playing out in the freezing cold a few times without it....she decided practicality trumps vanity. :)

Oliver

2011-12-21T10:18:00.000-08:00

I know I haven't been on here lately...but honestly...I can't get my mind off Ollie..and what he's going through.

It consumes my thoughts.

Have you read the latest blog post's on his blog??

(his mom) ...."He's been not wanting to spend the night anywhere lately either. I think it's because he's afraid to die anywhere else but home."

Oh my goodness :(

I can't take it....it breaks my heart.

He says he loves Christmas...because the Spirit of Christmas makes him feel warm inside...

I pray the Spirit does indeed warm him inside...and calms his fears, so he can feel peaceful and happy.

Please pray for him...he's scared, he's tired, he's confused....

Please pray.

www.oliverpalmer.blogspot.com

The Killers came to visit Oliver!!! you have to watch this video :)

2011-12-06T10:22:00.000-08:00

Ollie loves this band....and they came to Iowa to VISIT him!!! At his house!!

Can you believe this??

It meant SO much to Ollie. These are truly great guys.

They even played the guitar for him.

You HAVE to watch this video....it's GREAT!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cglLJJ0Czo8&ob=av2e

They sure made a fan out of me.....Thank you, Killers!!!

Please read about Ollie...he's such an amazingly brave little boy who is fighting DIPG...a rare form of brain cancer.

www.oliverpalmer.blogspot.com

Be still my heart!

2011-11-28T13:36:00.000-08:00

The other day I was wishing we could have another baby....

and I thought if we did....and it was a girl...I'd name her Savannah. I've always loved that name.
I told Rich that...and he said he really likes that name too. But then he said he wants to adopt another child instead....

Then today....I went to Reeces Rainbow and scrolled through the sweet faces....which I haven't done in a long time...because we aren't in the position to adopt again and it just makes me long to when I see their faces.

But today...there was a baby...a baby named SAVANNAH! and...this is a huge AND...she's in TOMA'S orphanage!!! I've always said if we can go back, I'd sure like it to be in the same city..so we can spend time with our wonderful friend Alexander again.

And there she is....a baby...named Savannah...(yes, I know this is a screen name, but I don't care) ;) AND in the same orphanage.

You have no idea how I wished this was Gods way of saying 'Go get her!!'

But alas....real life comes into play....

And sometimes it stinks.

The need is so great....yet it is so hard!

So anyway....there you have it.

Take a moment and go look at these sweet faces....that long for a family of their own.
www.reecesrainbow.org

More pics of my visit with Ollie :)

2011-11-19T17:51:00.000-08:00

Here I am trying to figure out how to use this thing....doesn't Ollie look sweet with his sucker <3

Poor Kiddo was SO tired this afternoon...he had a fundraiser that morning...and was all done with visiting, then he gets home and I show up! :)

I really love this one of Ollie and Summer <3 REALLY LOVE IT.

Going through the goodie box....

michael brought him an Indiana Jones action figure...Ollie LOVES Indiana Jones :)

See?? This is the effect I have on people! hahaaa.....

This wasn't from our visit...but I wanted to share it because it's SO CUTE!!! Ollie is having SUCH a good time with silly string! I LOVE seeing him laugh <3

Please keep him in your prayers...and please pray for a miracle for Ollie.

And thank you to the Briggs family for thinking of him <3

If anyone else would like to send him a card...his address is as follows:
Oliver Palmer
417 Oaklawn Ave
Waterloo, IA 50701

He's home :)

2011-11-18T13:25:00.000-08:00

And even played with papa for a while :) He's doing very well...watching his train movie on the recliner right now :) :)
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers!!!

Artiom is doing well :)

2011-11-18T08:22:00.000-08:00

He had a rough time of it for a while...

But then he'd get more morphine...and be feeling better....funny how that works ;)
He had to have 3 mini root canals along with caps put on....and of course the cleft palate.
So, he was all done in. And he hated the thing on his arm...he kept holding it up for me to take off.

He wouldn't put this (urinal) down though...try taking it away and you would get the wrath of TOMA!

Michael showing his baby brother a little love :)

Hopefully he'll come home today....Rich is down there with him right now.

Thanks for your prayers!!

Toma's having surgery tomorrow

2011-11-16T10:47:00.000-08:00

He's getting his cleft palate repaired and his cavities filled.....please keep him in your thoughts and prayers <3

And I can't believe I have to get up at 4:30 AM!!!!! That's going to do me in ;)

I went to visit Oliver!!!

2011-11-07T10:22:00.000-08:00

Saturday morning we left Minnesota and drove nearly 5 hours to get to Waterloo IA...

To visit with the sweetest little boy I've ever met.....Oliver <3

For those of you that don't know...Oliver is a 10 yr old boy that is battling DIPG...a rare form of brain cancer...

He's the bravest, most courageous boy I know. He's also very funny, sweet, tenderhearted... and loves to joke and laugh :)

He was very tired on this day....so we just sat and talked...I did most of the talking...and he showed me his sweet smile. <3

That would be THIS smile :)

Awe... <3 <3 <3 This day meant SO MUCH to me....

We went through a goodie box we brought...he liked the whoopie cushion ;)

He likes wrestling...he was showing me his wrestling figure...

Here's that sweet smile again....I would tease him and say that he was really thinking something like 'when is this crazy lady gonna leave, anyway!' hahaaaa and THEN he would smile :)

Here's his mom and his brother and sister.....

When I got there he was reading letters from people, that's what's in the basket...I'll post his address if you'd like to send him a letter...he LOVES getting them...

I'd sure love to drive down and see him again...he has touched my heart in such a huge way. I love him so much.
Please pray for him...for his healing...for God to touch him with His healing hand. Ollie needs our prayers now. He wants to be here for Christmas...to drink hot chocolate with his family and feel the wonderful Christmas spirit in his heart. (his words) Please pray for him.

Oliver Palmer
417 Oaklawn Ave
Waterloo, IA 50701

Fatherless Friday

2011-11-04T10:37:00.000-07:00

Share 118

When Derek died in a car crash in December of 2009, Orphan Justice Center team lost an amazing mentor, friend and visionary leader. He was funny, loving, compassionate, and uncompromising in his love for Jesus, his family, and for those trapped in injustice. We have yet to meet someone who knew Derek Loux who was not touched by his wonderful spirit.
When the OJC team felt God’s urging to write (SOTK) Strength of the King, A call to pure and undefiled religion, we knew we needed to try to capture the thoughts and foundations behind Derek and Renee’s unending passion for vulnerable children. So many have learned so much from this amazing family and their message needs to continue. It has taken almost two years, and although this book does not tell their personal story it outlines the foundational aspects that gave them vision and strength to persevere and go to the ends of the earth to rescue and restore children.
Derek was known as one who prayed and studied daily. He was a doer of the word. Derek spoke at churches, wrote songs, wrote blogs, and whatever else he could do to share the message about God’s heart for oppressed children. He grabbed people in coffee shops, in the airport or wherever anyone would listen, urging them to walk out true religion as outlined in 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.”

Derek walked in the revelation of this verse. He was always doing something to make a difference. The ripple effect from Derek’s life continues to go on and on. We recently heard from a girl that Derek and his team rescued from sex trafficking. She is now in a loving and nurturing environment. She has given her life to Jesus and is being helped, healed and restored. Not only is she doing well but she is helping others be free. Her testimony in court helped to shut down three sex trafficking rings! Derek was a burning and shining lamp who was always working to rescue those in need and his message is still inspiring us to action.
The OJC team has prayerfully put together the scriptural basics that were Derek’s motivation. From Genesis to Revelation these scriptures call for a Justice Revolution that brings redemption and restoration to the millions of children around the world in need of love and protection. These scriptures are the fuel that urged Derek to write:

“ I wanted something to live and die for. I wanted something to breathe and to bleed for. I’m not interested in trying to figure out ways to make my life safe and preserve my comfort.”

SOTK also highlights some beautiful points from the book of Job that show us how to live an upright and blameless life before God. As we have watched Renee’ Loux walk through these past several months without her husband and best friend we have seen unwavering faith and trust in the midst of grief and challenges. Her strength and commitment to helping others, even when she is in need, has caused us to look at the book of Job in a different light. Her determination to walk upright before God has given us a more eternal perspective on life and death. We have seen how Renee’ has not given up and how she is going forward to keep the light of justice burning. Her love for Jesus overcomes her grief and she is determined to walk in her destiny and calling. She has set her sights on the hope set before her and she has not stopped in her efforts to rescue, adopt and restore children.
Derek and Renee’ have been relentless in bringing God’s love and grace to children in need. We hope that this book, Strength of the King, A call to pure and undefiled religion, will be a resource for you as you take your part in the Justice Revolution. For those of you who knew Derek, this book will encourage you! You will be reminded of his message and his commitment to the fatherless, and you will again be inspired to follow his example.

You can order your book at:
http://www.lulu.com/product/paperback/the-strength-of-the-king/18549147
Blessings to you as you go in the Strength of the King!
Orphan Justice Team

Please remember all the fatherless children waiting for someone to come for them...

www.reecesrainbow.org

Halloween wrap -up

2011-11-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

The kids had fun on Halloween....here's my little tiger on his second Halloween :)

My little gator with my little tiger...still trying to figure out the food chain thing....hmmm...I think Toma better watch out!

Michael was a spooky Alien! (and I DON'T like Aliens..they creep me out)

Summer was a skeleton again this year....but as short as it's getting on her, I don't know if it will make it to next year :)

Here are the kids trading candy the next morning...and Summer was surprised at getting caught in her undies ;)

And here they boys were still trading...and then Alex said 'I'm all done, I'm closing up shop Michael' hahahaaaaa that boy cracks me up!

this was Michael's not happy face when he thought he messed up his pumpkin....

But he fixed it, so all was well :)

It's Jack Skellington from Nightmare Before Christmas :)

Still praying for sweet Oliver....

2011-10-24T18:02:00.000-07:00

You are the God who performs miracles;
you display your power among the peoples.
Psalm 77:14

www.oliverpalmer.blogspot.com

Fatherless Friday

2011-10-14T15:19:00.000-07:00

Why is this child still an orphan?

She is so sweet, and so able....and so precious.

She deserves to be loved....

To have a family of her own. What an amazing blessing she would be.

Charity

Girl, Born September 2008

What a munchkin! Big brown eyes More photos available. Charity is a beautiful girl with Down syndrome. She was born with a heart condition, but has had corrective surgery and is healthy and doing well now. She is still crawling, and will greatly benefit from a loving family to encourage her development!!

Update, Sept 2011: Charity isn't walking yet, but she can stand on her own. She has pretty normal development for a child with Down syndrome. Everyone in the orphanage loves her, because she is so loving and affectionate.

www.reecesrainbow.org

The kids in their costumes :)

2011-10-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

They kids all went to a Halloween party on Saturday night

so, we had NO children from 6-10pm! Whoo-Hoo!!!
Toma was Tweedle Dee...odd, I know, but it was cute and NOT scary. But I have to say it was SO tight that he had the mother of all wedgies by the time he got home!

Alex wasn't too hip on the idea of a party without mama ;)

Scary Summer is all set to go!

Michael the Alien ( I have a thing about aliens...total creep out) but he wanted to be it.

And finally, my little pirate looks so much better with his beard...and hearing there was going to be candy at the party ;)

Fall is in the air...and a mouse is in the house!

2011-10-06T15:27:00.000-07:00

The kids enjoyed playing in the leaves today...

and yes, he's using a snow shovel instead of a rake...and yes, we are Polish ;)

Summer loves our sweet guy Jake...

He's such a good dog :) Goldens are the BEST family dogs.

Toma did NOT like the leaves....

goofing around....

My michael <3

Alex got an owie....and is being a goofball...

he has the silliest faces....

wouldn't it be wonderful if they tree STAYED this pretty!

he's exhausted after all that raking...I mean, shoveling...

Alex being a goof again, and Toma wanting OUT of the leaf pile....

yes, the boys are fighting...and Toma is crying...but Summer is always ready for a picture!

Toma is rather good at whittling ;) He'd MUCH rather sit and do this than touch those nasty leaves.

ok...there's a story behind this picture...Summer was wearing this dress the other day and the (nasty) neighborhood kids were teasing her..saying it was an old grandma dress. She came in crying :( So, I took this picture to show her how pretty she looked :)

Another story here too....See the little thing in the corner of the window above our front door?? It's a baby mouse!!!
So, of course, we had to catch it and bring it in the house....

And feed it everything we could think of....
only problem was...when Summer turned her back to get it a bowl of water....it DISAPPEARED!!! IN MY KITCHEN.
Sigh.
I haven't seen it since...but we do have 5 cats....need I say more...??? :( :( :(

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close....

2011-09-30T18:29:00.000-07:00

Every evening on Facebook I put a prayer request on for Oliver....here was tonights.

It's prayer time for Ollie...
It's also the end of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
But please don't forget about these kids, these little Super Heroes,
And what they have to go through on a daily basis....
Cancer is a thief in the night...it comes and it TAKES...it takes their childhood, it takes their health, and in many cases...it takes their lives.
... We cannot look the other way and cross our fingers it doesn't happen to OUR kids..
It's happening every single day. To so many children. It will shake the world of 46 families tomorrow. And the day after that too....
7 families will say goodbye to their child tomorrow. And the days following that too...
Something has got to STOP this...we HAVE to find a CURE.
We have to CARE, even if it's not OUR kids that this is happening to.
Because we're all in this together. And I know I'll never be the same after knowing these brave children...and their fight against this monster called CANCER.
NEGU! (Never Ever Give Up!)

www.oliverpalmer.blogspot.com

Fatherless Friday

2011-09-30T10:06:00.000-07:00

Isn't he ADORABLE?!!

Boy, Born May 2009

HOT DOG, new photos of Darren. Finally we get a glimpse into the sunshine that he is! Look how he's grown!! Darren is a sweet boy with bright blue eyes.

From his medical records: Down Syndrome, bilateral pyelectasis, low muscle tone

This region typically waives the 10 day waiting period for children with special needs. Hope you will consider any one (or more) of the children in orphanage 41!

More photos available.

Yum! :) :)

2011-09-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

My Superfood Shake....

You wouldn't believe all the things that are in this. Yes, it stinks....and taste like something you found on the barn floor....BUT....it's SOOO healthy!!! And I DO feel better these days! :) :) Next time you see me...I'll look like a supermodel ;)

Here it is: Wheatgrass powder, Barley grass powder, Aloe vera gel, Green vibrance (healthy probiotic green powder), Acai berry powder, Raw cacao powder, Hempseed oil and Stevia extract powder for flavor. I have been taking a liquid organic multivitamin that will be replaced with a better quality tablet form soon. We've also been putting magnesium citrate powder and calcium carbonate powder in my shakes but those will be replaced by the tablet vitamin as well.

The handful of pills in the morning - Fish oil, Garlic, Zyflamend, Quercetin with bromelain, and 7-keto

At night - Fish oil, Garlic and Zyflamend

I have an autoimmune disease...and at times didn't think I could get out of bed....and I'm crossing my fingers...but so far (7 weeks) I've felt SO much better!

It's amazing what nutrition can do....vs. medications....and luckily I have a son who researches and orders all these things for me..and makes me the shakes :) (I think it has something to do with the fact he lives here rent free....hehee)

he just said we should incorporate some exercise in the morning....I said "lets not do CRAZY talk"!!

Rich is gassing it up...and we're a headin out!

2011-09-23T11:15:00.000-07:00

We're a comin' Kristin....I hope we get there in time for the fair!

Have a room ready ;)

2011-09-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I wish Shane would make a habit out of helping with school....

It makes such a difference even having one more hand...

and thankfully, Michael is more able to work on his own this year, and he's been complaining less! thank goodness! Unfortunately, Summer has picked up right where Michael left off in that department.

And here's Mr. Marco.....kicked back....not a worry in the world.

I just have one question......Is it wrong to envy a cat....?

Lots of pics from Fall Festival Day :)

2011-09-17T14:10:00.000-07:00

We went to a festival today in the next little town over....

They all (ok..almost all) LOVED the pony rides....Here's Michael (who had to ride twice) :)

Here's Toma with papa....he didn't love it.

Here's Alex...he did love it and wants a pony named Copper now :) And yes, I know the hat looks goofy.

Michael again on the pony....he still can't decide whether he wants a pony or a go-cart when we move to the country :)

Summer on her pony....she SO wants to be a farm girl...

Michael got to climb on a rock wall....he tried it twice...but just couldn't make it up :(

*notice the crazy guy in the background....heheee....yes, I colored my dads hair, my mom MADE me! and he wouldn't come out to the sink so it got left on toooo long! But it's a lovely shade of red now ;)

Michael was the champ at this game....that's his poor little cousin getting knocked down repeatedly....

Summer did some of this..... sigh....

Little cousin got in a good shot....but I think Michael let him get it in ;)

The crazy guy again....being silly....I can't show you the other gesture he gave me.....

And finally....Summer did some more of this.....

Fatherless Friday

2011-09-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

This sweet boy is still waiting.....

Date of Birth: August 2005
Gender: Male
Eyes: Blue
Hair: light brown

Nature: Quiet boy, loves to play with adults. He loves listening to music, trying to repeat the dance moves for adults. He has a selective attitude towards others. In a gesture of farewell. His appetite is good, he eats with a spoon and drinking from a cup, but not accurately. Sleep restless, sometimes cries in his sleep.

Nicholas has a wonderful soul about him! He needs a family quickly, he should be in a kindergarten class making friends, not stuck in an orphanage or institution.

Do YOU hear God whispering in your heart that your family just *may* not be complete?
Do you look at this sweet boy and see him sitting at YOUR dinner table?

He needs you. I mean REALLY needs you.....

Please pray about it....and if you're SURE He's not calling YOU to adopt....then please pray that this boy finds his family...that his family finds him.

He will have virtually no life without someone coming for him. :(

www.reecesrainbow.org

I can't get my mind off him....

2011-09-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

Please think of Oliver tonight...and pray for his healing....for the horrible tumor to be taken away....
He's such a wonderful, funny, sweet boy ♥

No child should have to go through this :(

www.oliverpalmer.blogspot.com

wanna see a good family movie??

2011-09-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

http://www.sperrymovie.com/

This was VERY good. Loved it <3

Fatherless Friday

2011-09-09T12:23:00.000-07:00

These two are so beautiful!!! And they look like they could be siblings...so much alike :) They could both be adopted together too <3

Porter

is a boy ;)

BOY, Born August 10, 2005

Don't mind this pink shirt, Porter is a BOY. This is an older photo, but Porter is already 5 years old. He is HIV+, stage 3. He is mildly cognitively delayed as well.

From his medical records: HIV stage 3, without immunosuppression, delay of psychomotor and speech development, bacillosis

He can be adopted simultaneously with children in 16 or 23.

Girl, Born June 2006
Nasira is beautiful! Brown hair and beautiful brown eyes. She has CP, but is doing very well.

From her medical records: congenital malformation of brain – agenesia of corpus callosum, spastic paraplegia

My little Mr. Cool loves Jacee too ;)

2011-09-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

He's pretty proud of his new Jacee shirt that he got for his birthday :)

He *might* not even use it as a napkin throughout the day like he tends to do with his other shirts.

I wasn't aware of the statistics....but I am now. Are you?

2011-09-05T11:02:00.000-07:00

46/7 -- "Did you know that 46 kids are diagnosed with cancer each day... 7 kids die from cancer each day. We need to do more than just pray for a cure... we need to pray for guidance in how to ACT. Heavenly Father won't just do it for us. ♥ Hug your babies"...Ollie's mom Stacy.

Please keep praying for Oliver. Prayer can change things...he CAN be healed.

If you're listening...I need you to pray

2011-08-31T20:40:00.000-07:00

We need prayers for a miracle....Oliver's MRI results were not what we were hoping for. His tumor has grown.
Please keep praying....GOD CAN HEAL HIM!
I ♥ this boy.

Toma likes cowboy boots :)

2011-08-31T15:50:00.000-07:00

Pink ones! :)

Oliver needs your prayers!

2011-08-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

I'm crying out to the Lord....

For HEALING. For a MIRACLE. Because HE CAN!

Please pray for Oliver. He has an MRI on Wednesday (the 31st) to see if there has been any change with the tumor. Please storm Heaven for a miracle.

www.oliverpalmer.blogspot.com

— .

Michael's birthday afternoon

2011-08-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

Famous Dave's + Michael = Hog Heaven

He didn't get ALL of them...but he did manage MOST of them. Rich and I snuck a few :)

Boy, did he have a good time. He gets ribs once a year, on his B-day :)

and then they brought out this awesome sundae, with a sparkler on top (for free!)

using the straw to get the last drop....cuz that's the way Michael rolls....

then we headed to the movie....here it is before it started....I think the rib platter is getting to him!

Then after all that we had a party at home...with Cherry Breeze from Grandma

and ho-ho's. Toma blew out his candle!!!! He was very proud of himself too :)

Michael said it was his best Birthday ever. :) :)

My Mikey's Birthday Breakfast :)

2011-08-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Crepes, his favorite!

He especially loves them with banana's and caramel sauce...but it was too hectic around here this morning for that!!!

I can't believe he's 9.

We're going to Pirates of the Caribbean today, and to Famous Dave's...BBQ ribs are his other favorite! Rich and I got a gift certificate for there for our anniversary and I gave it to Michael so he could get a big rack of them :) :)

So, needless to say, he's in HOG HEAVEN. hehee.

Birthdays Birthdays Birthdays.........

2011-08-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

Today is Artioms 7th Birthday

And he's NOT digging his birthday hat ;)

It's his second birthday at home <3

Tomorrow is Michael's 9th Birthday! And he's VERY excited! (and he's a dork!)

Toma is better now that we've gotten rid of that annoying thing on his head....well, ONE of them anyway...hahaaa...

Michael is choosing to go out to eat for his birthday and to a movie and then come home and have a campfire :) I just love my sweet boy.

Toma is going to go swimming today, which he LOVES to do..and then have some cake :) Probably with NO hat ;)

My two Birthday boys.

I finally got a camera cord!!! Wanna see what Toma learned how to do today??

2011-08-22T14:27:00.000-07:00

USE SCISSORS!

He thinks he's Rock'in this style....

But I'm thinking he won't be leaving the house for...oh...6 months or so.

Lovely.

Instead of Fatherless Friday...

2011-08-19T08:07:00.000-07:00

I'm doing another post in honor of Oliver Palmer. Because I love him :) And because he needs all the prayers he can get to beat cancer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcHr9hUfHyg&feature=share Ollie taught himself how to play Amazing Grace on the piano. It's sooo sweet. You have to watch it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrRW5dX0fJU&feature=related Here he is learning how to crack a whip :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQBJS2AvRMM&feature=related He's learning Archery....

http://www.youtube.com/user/PhineasMcGuineas#p/u/24/kWWfPakrJ6Y Thanking people for cards...which he LOVES to get.....if you're interested in sending him one ;)

http://www.youtube.com/user/PhineasMcGuineas#p/u/25/3P60_YP2WaQ Dancing :) And he's got some good moves!

These are great videos of Ollie...they show his sweet personality and his sense of humor :)

Please keep him in your prayers....I know he CAN be healed. And I'm determined that if we all pray enough...he WILL be.

Some happenings around here....(updated with a really nice pic of Ollie)

2011-08-17T11:40:00.000-07:00

(for the few of you that don't do Facebook...ok...probably the ONE of you...ahem, KRISTIN) :)

The other night I was in a hurry making supper because we were having a party for my dad...(so, I was really just making it for Rich) I made him noodles and they were in the pot on the stove, but as I reached up to the cupboard above the stove to get candles out, one of my FL souvenirs fell out...a TAIL from a horseshoe crab, and it fell in his noodles! Long and spiky..bleh. I picked it out...but I didn't tell him ;)

And on another note....I've been trying to potty train Artiom...he spent A LOT of time on his potty yesterday, mostly in the kitchen, but he scoots it around which I tell him NOT to do...sigh. Anyway, last night I was eating cereal by the computer...and his potty chair was sitting there with some, ahem, potty in it. I got up to go do something and when I came back I saw him walking away with the bowl part...that was now EMPTY. I looked at my cereal and it was YELLOW! HE DUMPED IT IN MY CEREAL!!!!!

Too much man. Too much. I threw the bowl away. And he got a scolding. I need a vacation.

And finally, Please don't forget to PRAY for Oliver.....

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1056056687904.2008633.1420459461#!/pages/Olivers-Journey-with-DIPG/140894035994480

http://oliverpalmer.blogspot.com/

It's my dads Birthday today!

2011-08-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

He's 78. I know, I know...he looks like he's 108 ;)

For breakfast this morning I made him his favorite....pancakes with an egg on top. And a candle on top of that :) He wore a spiderman birthday hat :)

Later, I'll make him a hot fudge cake....and he can open his presents...which are the only 2 things he likes....snus and chocolate. Real healthy, I know. But it's what he likes.

Happy Birthday to Ol' Salty!

I can't get this sweet boy off my mind...or heart.

2011-08-14T16:52:00.000-07:00

I told you about Oliver the other day....and I've been praying so hard for him...and I'm asking you all to do the same. He's such a special little guy! His smile lights up a room, his sense of humor is always present...even though his life is very challenging right now. He's funny, he's loving, and he's a strong little boy who has been fighting cancer for 2 years.

HE NEEDS PRAYER! Please!!!

Here he is making a card for another child that has cancer. Because he has the most tender heart.

Here's a little more about Ollie....so you can get to 'know' him....

These are a few of my favorite things...

Sport - baseball, football, basketball, hockey
Inside Activity - Playing the Wii, video games, wrestling with Jaren, making Finny laugh, watching movies, reading, playing marbles, Family Home Evening, playing with friends and family
Outside Activity - Fishing, Archery, Jumping on Trampoline with Eden, camping, ball games, sledding, going to the beach
Food - Spaghetti and meatballs, bacon
Comedian - Jim Gaffigan & Brian Regan
Sports Teams - Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs
Martial Art - Capoiera
Wrestler - John Cena, The Undertaker
Animal - Monkeys, Kittens
Comic Book Character - The Incredible Hulk
Movie - "The Master of Disguise", Harry Potter series
Band - The Killers
TV Series - The Last Airbender
Holiday - Christmas
Traditions - Valentine's Dinner, Decorating the Christmas Tree
Toys - Dart Guns, remote control cars
Books - Junie B. Jones, Captain Underpants
Cartoon Character - Spongebob Squarepants
Other - Cuddling, smiling, doing impersonations, one liners!

And he has the best smile in the world!

He also has a caring bridge at https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/oliverpalmer/createorsignin

I Do believe in Miracles. I believe in the power of Prayer.

Please take a minute to get to know Oliver....and help pray him WELL!

Meet Oliver.....

2011-08-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

This is Oliver, a very special 10 yr old boy who is struggling with cancer.

He is funny and sweet...and SUCH a special boy.

Please visit these sights to get to know Ollie...and please PRAY for him....oh, and if you could please 'like' his page, I know it would mean a lot to him :)

http://oliverpalmer.blogspot.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3P60_YP2WaQ

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1661963694#!/pages/Olivers-Journey-with-DIPG/140894035994480?sk=info

picture of Toma at another parade :)

2011-08-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

We went to a parade last weekend....Toma still has no interest in such things as candy....or really what's even going on in the parade...but he sure does like to get out and go places :) He knows if I get his shoes out that he's going somewhere and that makes him very happy :)
It was hot out...but his brother had a squirt gun and Toma got ahold of it and squirted Michael...then himself...that's why he's wet. He sure loved that squirt gun...I was surprised at how well (and quick!) he could shoot it. :) Anything water....he loves.

Fatherless Friday

2011-08-05T11:35:00.002-07:00

What a wonderful daughter little Francine would make! She is so able and so determined! Please consider making her a part of your family....she desperately needs someone to come for her.

Girl, Born May 2006
Francine has been waiting a long time for her forever family. She was born with CP, but you can see how well she is doing and how strong she is physically. She is an orphanage favorite.

From her medical records: cerebral palsy, spastic diplegia, delay of psychospeech development

From a family who visited with her in August 2010: "I just wanted to say that Francine is mobile and doesn't let her CP stop her! She was a very sweet little girl and her face beamed when she smiled! She has beautiful light blue eyes and dark hair. I know she would make a wonderful daughter. If anyone asks about her I'd love tell them more about her. "

Fatherless Friday

2011-07-29T16:07:00.000-07:00

Polly

Whose smile doesn't reach her eyes...

This little treasure is still waiting...oh, how I love her <3

Girl, born September 2005

This smiley young lady is listed only as having hypothyroidism, which is typically very easily controlled with daily medication. Polly may have other effects of orphanage life, but nothing else was noted for her.

There are many other children who could be adopted with Polly.

*** Update.....Sweet Patrick from last Friday's post has a family coming for him!!! :) :)

Happy 4th Birthday, Mackenzie!

2011-07-28T14:21:00.000-07:00

It's our granddaughter's 4th birthday

She takes after her 'Omie' and likes chocolate...in any form ;)

She loves playing with silly string! But what kid doesn't.... :)

Likes to 'help' Grandma (not me, I'm 'Omie') with dishes ...gotta love that!

Having fun on a big jumpy slide, pretty in pink.

She loves animals like here Omie <3

and likes being goofy with Alex

Cuddling with the gang....Toma doesn't look like he wants to cuddle...

eating some bubbles at grandma's house.....did I mention she has a 'ski' at the end of her name???

Loves her afternoon snacks with grandma...

And she SO wants a pony...here she is riding one with her mom :) Our daughter Ashley.

Being a little drama queen, she certainly gets THAT from her mom ;)

Having some fun at the park ...and being silly.

haha.....she looks like Pooh on Benydryl....

But she's super sweet...

And super GOOFY.

Her 'Poppy' ( Rich) calls her 'Big Mac'.....but I think she's way to pretty for that nick name :)

Toma loves his pools ;)

2011-07-25T07:45:00.000-07:00

He could stay in them all day.

And fans. He still has such a 'thing' for fans.

ok...and high heel shoes, but I wasn't going to reveal that one. ;)

He's having a fun summer...he spends most of his days outside, only coming in to eat and sit over in his corner with his table and fan...like a little mad scientist trying to figure out what makes it work...he's taken a couple of them apart enough that I had to throw them away.

He's such a sweet little guy. He's by far the easiest of any of our kids. No matter where we go, he's always got his hand out to hold someones hand, he's definitely a hand holding sort of guy...it's so sweet.

Love this picture, Love these guys....

2011-07-23T20:12:00.000-07:00

I love these two....such awesome young men.

Scotty and Jacee...both from American Idol...together last night, having a good time.

We need more people like these two. Good, honest, hardworking, God fearing young men. And I can tell ya that Jacee is just about the sweetest young man I've ever come across :)

Guess who has a 22 yr old!

2011-07-22T17:52:00.000-07:00

It's Ashley's 22nd Birthday today!!! Happy Birthday, Ashley :)

Ashley the snake charmer

Fatherless Friday

2011-07-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

This story breaks my heart....and I was going to tell it today, but then I saw that my friend Julia http://covenantbuilders.blogspot.com/ did...and well, I can't tell a story anywhere near the way she can....Six years ago, a Mama across the ocean gave birth to a little boy. His little body was twisted and contorted, and the doctors and nurses whispered in her ears, urging her to give him up: "He will never walk." "He will be a burden." "You cannot afford to keep him." "He will be better off hidden away." "He should not have been born." She was in an unforgiving world where broken children are tossed aside on a regular basis.

Despite all of this, her mother's heart would not allow her to let him go. Against the advice of all of those worldly-wise whisperers, she decided to keep him. She carried her beloved little boy with the contorted body home, where she cared for him and loved on him. She tenderly worked his arms and his legs. She nursed him and washed him. It was hard. We don't know if she had support. We know that finding work while maintaining a disabled child at home in that world is next to impossible. Somehow, though, mother and son survived together in this way for six years.

Back in January 2011, financial strain and her own health problems forced this Mama to take her son to live in a baby house orphanage. She chose the best one she could find, one where the staff was willing to work with special needs kids like her son. She wanted to find a job and a home nearby so that she could visit her precious treasure. Evey time she walked through the door, his face lit up: his Mama was back. Her love carried him through the loneliness of the baby house and kept him going. He loved his Mama and she loved him.

A few months later, though, Mama suddenly stopped coming. Her little boy longed for her and waited for her; but no matter how hard he wished for her, she no longer appeared.

Her absence wasn't by choice. Unknown to the little boy, his Mama had died of cancer in March.

Now he is all alone in the orphanage, with no one to visit him, for the first time in his six years of life. He refuses to believe the caretakers who tell him that she is never coming back. Each day, he continues to look for her. He scans the face of everyone who walks into the building, looking for a Mama who can never return to him.

A little boy who was tenderly loved for 6 years, suddenly orphaned.

He needs a Mama.

He desperately needs a Mama.

He will not be allowed to stay at his good baby house orphanage. Because he is wheelchair bound, he will be transferred to an institution for older children with special needs, just as Aaron was transferred.

I can't bear the thought.

His Reece's Rainbow name is Patrick and he needs a Mama.

He needs to grieve in the arms of a Mama who will help him overcome his great loss. He needs a family who can restore for him the joy of being loved and held and cherished.

I would get him if I could. I would cross that ocean and bring him home if the road was clear for us. But it is not. And so I am crying out for someone else to go get him. He needs a family.

My heart grieves deep within me for this one little boy.

Please please please post on your blogs about this little guy. Please, someone go get him.

Little boys are not supposed to have to say goodbye to their Mamas when they are only six years old.

*****

wanna know how hot it is outside??

2011-07-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went out to feed the llama and came back in looking like THIS.

More new Charity photo's....

2011-07-20T14:14:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I love this girl <3

There is an awesome family adopting in her region right now, their blog is here...http://bringingcarsonhome.blogspot.com/?spref=fb and they were able to get these beautiful pictures of little Miss Charity.

What a delight she would be for some lucky
family...

I've been sending them to my husband all afternoon with little snippets about adoption....but the bottom line is this girl goes to bed every night without a mama or papa to tuck her in...to hold her and love her...she needs SOMEONE to come for her.

Yummy :) My kids LOVE pancakes, do yours??

2011-07-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a good pancake recipe, these are SO good! I always double it, or even triple it... this one below doesn't make very many. But they're the best pancakes I've ever made :)

1 c. flour
1 tbsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 tbsp. vegetable oil
3 tbsp. sugar
1 c. milk
1 egg
1/2 tsp. salt

Combine dry ingredients. Add milk, egg and oil. Mix until smooth. Heat non-stick pan over medium heat until water beads. Do not oil. Pour pancake mixture in 1/4 cup amounts. Turn when tops are covered with bubbles and edges look cooked. Remove from heat when pancake stops steaming.

( I put them on a buttered griddle)

Fatherless Friday

2011-07-15T08:57:00.000-07:00

See the difference in these two pictures?? This is after less than a month of this little girl being transferred from the baby orphanage to an institution.... How sad :( Can you imagine her in a year? She desperately needs someone to save her from that fate.

HELP!! I HAVE BEEN TRANSFERRED!!

111xg-30C
Teri Lynn
Date of Birth: December 2005
Gender: Female
Eyes: Gray
Hair: brown
Character: Cheerful, kind

More photos available

$316.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!
Help me reach my 5/5/5 goal:

My little Summer Rose is 7 today!!!

2011-07-14T07:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Summer!

She want's to go bowling and out for Chinese later ;)

What a story....Can you help??

2011-07-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

This is borrowed from my friend Stephanie Nance's blog....

Eyes of a Child

In the eyes of a child there is joy, there is laughter

There is hope, there is trust, a chance to shape the future

For the lessons of life there is no better teacher

Than the look in the eyes of a child

On occasion you will hear me complaining about Zhen's eyes. Seriously, why couldn't the orphanage arrange to have his cataract removed when he was a baby? Then his vision could have developed normally as he grew. The sad truth is that in Eastern Europe, babies with disabilities just don't get the medical care that they need.

Then I stop whining. And I'm thankful. For I remember a bright and beautiful boy that I met at church in Ukraine last summer. Meet Andrei...

About two years ago, Andrei was having some problems with his eyes. His parents took him to an eye specialist in Kiev who recommended laser surgery! Cool huh?

After the laser surgery was performed, the doctor came out to talk to the family and said... "Oops, we made a mistake and your son is now blind in that eye". (Can you even imagine?! The word "malpractice" comes to my mind.) The doctors did not operate on the other eye at the time, (thank God!) but said that it would need surgery in the future.

Over the course of the next two years, Dema and Marina, Andrei's father and mother, home schooled Andrei because the doctor said that a blow to the head or a fall could make him permanently blind. Now, I ask you, is that any way for a young boy to live, in fear of getting bonked on the head or falling down? No rough housing with his little brother? No running?

Now Andrei is now down to 50% vision in his one good eye.

What a nice looking family! Andrei's father leads the singing at church and teaches young adults. His mother is the church pianist. This photo is a couple of years old.

Last Friday, Andrei was having some problems with his eye and so the doctor wanted to take his eye out (!!!) and coat with silicone to help preserve the eye. Well, instead of that (sheesh!) we would like to get Andrei to the United States as quick as possible so that the doctors here can work on him. Marina had an appointment today at the US embassy in Kiev and thankfully, she was able to get the visas they need to leave Ukraine right away.

In a couple of weeks Andrei and his mother will travel to Chicago. A doctor there believes that he can help save his one good eye. A nearby church has agreed to host mother and son for one month while Andrei receives treatment. The good doctor cannot treat Andrei for free, but he will reduce his fee. What a great opportunity!

In keeping with our mission to improve the lives of children in Crimea, Project TLC would like to assist this family with their expenses. We will dedicate contributions received over the next two weeks in order to preserve what is left of Andrei's limited eyesight.

The total projected need is at least $2000, so please share this far and wide, and donate as you are led. You may use the Paypal button here:

Another new picture of Charity

2011-07-11T09:35:00.000-07:00

I just LOVE HER!!!! She's still waiting.....

www.reecesrainbow.org

My little Dennis the Menace

2011-07-10T10:55:00.000-07:00

See this naughty face......?

I happened to glance at my fishtank...which you can't even SEE my fish in...because ALEX fed them for me...last night. I was really mad at scolded him saying it was going to take me 20 minutes to clean that dang thing out. He stood there like a little statue with his mouth open and slowly said ..... "I didn't see that coming".....

He has to help me clean it out.....Not so funny now. ;)

Fatherless Friday

2011-07-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

Precious Cathereine....still waiting.

Little Grant......still waiting.

These children are both on the 'older' child page of Reeces Rainbow....they have been waiting so long. They ARE living on borrowed time, and it's running out :(

Hmmm....

2011-07-06T12:39:00.001-07:00

I *think* I should be offended, lol...
The 'True Green' guy just came to the door and the conversation went like this:
him- Hey, looks like you could use some help with your lawn
me-ah, no...I don't think so
him- do you like having a clover field in your front yard?
me-I like clover
him-yeah, sure you do
me-I'm raising kids, not green grass
him-do you LIKE being the talk of the neighborhood for your bad lawn?
me-Well, we are whether it's about the lawn or not
him-alright, see ya. but here's my card if you change your mind.
NOT LIKELY.

I can't get this child off my mind....oh, how he wants a family!

2011-07-06T09:16:00.000-07:00

Born May 18, 2005

Cole has an impish smile and is very helpful and sweet. He was born HIV+ and turned 6 years old this past spring. He's fortunate to be in a good orphanage, although they'll transfer him this fall if he doesn't find a family.

From a family who met him this past summer: He is the oldest of the boys still there, so the most at risk for being transferred. He seems very smart. He was what I call the "orphanage helper". He was always helping the ladies push the strollers full of laundry back and forth from the laundry house and always helping the groundskeepers sweep and pick up sticks, etc.

From a family who visited with him in spring 2011:

Cole is bright, friendly, engaging, inquisitive, helpful, athletic, and charming! Being the oldest child there, Cole is everyone's "big brother". He helps the caregivers keep track of any of the little ones who wander too far, and coaxes them back to where they belong. He can often be seen carrying bags of sand toys that they bring out to play with. He's learned responsibility from a young age. There are also pictures of him on the walls in traditional clothes of his country, performing in a Children's Day program with the biggest smile on his face! So, he clearly enjoys music and dancing, as well as sports. Whenever he sees me, he smiles and waves and yells, "Mama!" As in "Look! Here I am!". The director said that Cole asked my son if we would take him, too. To which my son answered "Yes! You can come too! My mama and papa will bring all of you!" Ouch. How it hurts me to know that within a few days, my son will be the only little boy walking out through those gates, and "Cole" (and "Owen") will be left behind. People are overlooking an absolute gem of a child!

For more info and parent support on adopting and raising a child with HIV, please visit http://www.projecthopeful.org

This little boy needs a family before it's too late...

2011-07-05T10:44:00.000-07:00

It just breaks my heart to see so much potential and love being lost. Look at his smile! Look in his eyes! He's going to be 12 soon. 12 yrs without a family :( 12 years of a family missing out on what an awesome son he would have been ....If this boy isn't adopted soon, all his chances for a healthy life will be gone. And not just because he has HIV, but because he'll be out on the streets, alone, with no future. I can't stand to think of it. It's not supposed to be this way! Please pray for Vlad.
Vlad Boy, Born September 22, 1999

From our facilitator who has visited with him: HIV. Vlad is very healthy and has the most striking green eyes! His life story is very typical. The boy doesn't have brothers and sisters, the mother died. Super boy. Physically developed perfectly well. By the fact very healthy, practically never ill. He is very fond of English, reads children stories without a dictionary, speaks good English. The boy is very communicative, always optimistic. He is very supportive with friends and very polite and obedient with the teachers and caregivers. Dreams about obtaining a family.

***Vlad is also an OLDER CHILD, and will have no opportunities if he ages out. His "orphan and HIV status" will follow him the rest of her life. Please give Vlad a chance to grow up knowing the love of a family and having basic the opportunities that he deserves. ***

For more info and parent support on adopting and raising a child with HIV, please visit http://www.projecthopeful.org/

Happy Birthday Princess Diana

2011-07-01T17:30:00.000-07:00

Diana Frances Spencer, born July 1, 1961

Yes, I grew up loving her.

I remember watching her wedding...

And seeing how much she loved her boys...

Two of my very favorite people dancing together.... Diana and Ronald Reagan.

And how she blossomed into such a beautiful woman even among such sadness in her life...

But she left way too soon.

Happy Birthday Diana.

Fatherless Friday

2011-06-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know this is early. I posted it earlier today when I thought it was Friday today, hahaa. It's been one of 'those' days....but then my sweet, but know it all, friend Kristen emailed me and said 'what the.... this is THURSDAY!' soo..I took it off. But then I figured whats the difference, so I put it back on ;)

Two weeks in a row, I know...but this is sweet Charity!

There is a family adopting from her orphanage right now and they were fortunate enough to get this updated picture of her!!!

Oh my, she's sooo sweet. And so little, just perfect for cuddling ;)

Pretty in Pink. Now she just needs someone to come for her.

www.reecesrainbow.org.

This baby needs your prayers....

2011-06-29T09:41:00.000-07:00

Remember this baby? Sweet Moira (Victoria).

( I borrowed this from Julia Nalles blog, she's so much better at it than I am)

Well she is currently in the Children's Hospital of Atlanta at Scottish Rite.

She just plain needs our prayers.

So does her family.

They also need anyone who lives in the Atlanta area to drop what they are doing and be the hands of Christ for that family.

Shelly Burman, who just finished going through the same nightmare with their daughter Carrington, has volunteered to organize people to help the Ferrones through her Carrington's Courage blog.

If you live in the Atlanta area - please contact Shelly through that blog and let her know what you can do to help.

If you don't live in the Atlanta area - then consider helping the family out financially. They could definitely use every single donation made at this point.

There is a chip-in on Carrington's Courage.

Please let's rally around this family - through prayers, financial support and hands on loving!

http://wronginalltherightways-travcat.blogspot.com/

What a difference a year makes.....

2011-06-27T10:36:00.000-07:00

This is one little boy that loves his life!

Artiom getting buried in the sand yesterday at the beach :)

Fatherless Friday

2011-06-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

Sweet Charity....I've wanted you for sooo long. I look at your picture all the time and everyday when I look to see which children have been chosen, I always anticipate seeing your face....but you're still waiting for your mama and papa to come for you.

If we could go back now, it would be for you sweet girl....

Charity

Girl, Born September 26, 2008

this is a good blog to read :)

2011-06-23T13:17:00.000-07:00

http://sewntogetherbygrace.blogspot.com

And she's giving away this book....which I want to win....because I'm #26 at the library! haha.

Go take a look....you'll also get a glimpse of country life...and of these sweeties...

And you just may learn how to make cheesecake out of black beans....ahh...if you want to ;)

Happy Birthday Sweet Josiah

2011-06-22T17:44:00.000-07:00

Little Josiah turned 7 yrs old today. That's 7 yrs without a mom and a dad. Without a family.

That is so sad :( Please, somebody save him....

Boy, Born June 22, 2004
HELP! I NEED MY FAMILY NOW!

Josiah is SO handsome! Olive skin, and dark hair with beautiful deep brown eyes.

Josiah is all boy! Very active and doing well. He was born with an additional chord to the left ventricle, and has a functional systolic murmur. But you'd never know it! Josiah is almost 6, please help us save him from the institution!
From an adoptive family who visited with him in May 2010: "This cutie pie had just woken up from his nap, so he was not feeling over smiley. He was very pleasant and followed the commands of his caretaker. He appropriately pointed to his ears, eyes, nose, bottom and hands after she asked him to show her wher each part was. He loves to throw the ball back and forth with someone. He is well developed and proportional. He is a big boy."

From an adoptive family who visited with him in April 2011: "Josiah was transfered to his current place in October, 2010. He has lost a noticeable amount of weight. He is desperate for personal attention and stimulation. The caretakers at the orphanage really do not know what to do with him. He is very outgoing and has a huge smile for anyone that is willing to give him the time of day. He gets along well with the other children in the groupa and listens well to his caretakers.
He walks and runs, and plays, and feeds himself, but he seems to have slipped into survival mode here and is regessing fast. I feel VERY STRONGLY that he needs out of this place!"

I AM ELIGIBLE FOR AN OLDER CHILD GRANT

posted in: Available to Large Families, Down Syndrome, 6+ Boys, Orphan

2011-06-19T19:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Fathers Day to my sweet husband...

(with Artiom in the orphanage)

And to my Dad.....who apparently thought the day was a bust.

But not to worry....we all had a good time making fun of him while he was asleep ;)

Fatherless Friday

2011-06-17T09:26:00.000-07:00

Beautiful (and able) little Francine......
Girl, Born May 2006

Francine has been waiting a long time for her forever family. She was born with CP, but you can see how well she is doing and how strong she is physically. She is an orphanage favorite.

From her medical records: cerebral palsy, spastic diplegia, delay of psychospeech development

From a family who visited with her in August 2010: "I just wanted to say that Francine is mobile and doesn't let her CP stop her! She was a very sweet little girl and her face beamed when she smiled! She has beautiful light blue eyes and dark hair. I know she would make a wonderful daughter. If anyone asks about her I'd love tell them more about her.

Sophia A.
Date of Birth: October 2009
Gender: Female
Eyes: Gray
Hair: brown

Look how beautiful she has grown!! Significant cleft lip and palate, most likely FAS or prenatal drug use as well.

Many people have inquired about Smile Train helping Sophia, but she would be much better served to have reconstructive surgery here in the US with her new family. Is that you?

One reason why I love Rich

2011-06-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

Rich goes to bed earlier than everyone else because he get up so early...the other night when he was in bed Artiom wandered in and went to him...I was out in the hall but heard this:

"You're such a beautiful boy Toma. You're fearfully and wonderfully made. And exactly the way God wanted you to be....Papa sure loves you"

It just touched my heart...I married the sweetest man.

The goings on around here

2011-06-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

Here's what we've been up to lately. I lost the cord to my camera so I can't download my pictures :(

yesterday we took the kids to a parade in the next little town over...they all had alot of fun...Toma still wouldn't get any candy, he's not the least bit interested in it. He sat on my dads lap the whole 2 1/2 hours.
My dad had a wonderful time because there was a Saloon Girl in the parade...Klondike Kate, I believe, who came over to him and sang him a song and KISSED him!!! So, that pretty much made his day...or his month ;) I wonder if she noticed that he only shaved half his face...he forgot the other half! :)

Last week I got a package in the mail...from a blog reader that I've never met....she crocheted me a prayer shawl!!! A beautiful, pink (which is my favorite color) prayer shawl. Can you believe that??? It really touched me that someone would do that for someone they don't even know. THANK YOU ELIZ!!!
(when I get a new cord, I'll post pics)

Then....Jacee Badeaux sent me a note and signed pictures of himself!!! Now, you all know how much I love him, so that made my day!!! He really is the neatest kid.

Toma has dr appts all day tomorrow....x-rays to prepare for cleft palate surgery...dental visits, and plastic surgeon visit. I don't like those days....spent down in the city with all that traffic. I have terribly dry eyes from Sjogrens Syndrome and they get so bad on days like that then the headache comes on....oh, not good. BUT, I will feel so much better when he finally has these things fixed.

If any of you were intending to write to Travis, he sustained a back injury and was flown back home to recuperate :( I'll let you know when he'll be sent back though.

Last week there was a batch of dead bunnies in my back yard :( One was still alive and I tried to save it....but it was too late. We buried them...the next morning the mama was looking for them..it was sad :(

We had one hot day here in MN....it was 103 degrees! that was last week...it's been sweater weather ever since. I guess that was our one day of summer!

Well, that's about it.

Oh, and I've had 3 people email me and say they can't comment on my blog :( And I can't comment on most peoples blogs either...so that really stinks! You know how much I love my comments!! :) :)

Fatherless Friday

2011-06-10T09:33:00.000-07:00

My friend Catherine is at the orphanage where this little boy is living...she's adopting 2 beautiful little girls. But she's been able to spend time with one of my favorite little boys...Michael.

This is sweet Michael when he was a baby...

He's still waiting...and waiting...

And look how he has grown..and look at that smile!

But even at 3 yrs old, he's still much like a baby...

Who needs a mama to cuddle him...

Boy, Born May 2008

Look how much he has grown up! Sad that he has to watch his friends Nastya and Moira go home with their mama, but he still has to sit and wait ;(

Michael is so handsome!!! Michael has dark hair and eyes. He is three years old. He is near walking, and will definitely thrive in a family environment. He does have an open oval window, and should see a cardiologist when he gets home. Michael is in the same orphanage with many other children, both with DS and other special needs, and could be adopted together with any of them.

From one of our adoptive families who visited with him in June 2011: "Michael is often overlooked because he is so quiet. When I went over to him, he was quite surprised to receive attention. He was thrilled to be snuggled. I think he would have sat in my lap all day. He can walk if you hold his hands. He seems very healthy. He is in a very high functioning room with typical kids. Very, very sweet loving boy! He would look deeply into my eyes, like he was looking into my soul! It was very hard for me to put him down! I sure hope this helps find him a family!"

MORE PHOTOS AVAILABLE!

Michael set up his Candy Shop

2011-06-05T12:01:00.000-07:00

Every summer Michael sets up his 'stand'. He was SOOO excited to go to Walmart last night and get his 'merchandise' hahaa.

Of course, I greatly encourage this....for many reasons. Did I mention he stays down there ALL DAY??? ;)

He brought his book to read for the slow periods...

And I brought him lunch, which always brings a smile to his face :)

Fatherless Friday

2011-06-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

I've been looking at this sweet boy for years...watching him change and grow..and STILL waiting for a family. I'm starting to think he will always be overlooked...and alone in the world. And he seems like SUCH a sweet, good natured boy.

Austin (16ka1-3)
Boy, Born June 2006

This darling little boy is waiting for his forever family. He has very unique facial features, but I am unfamiliar with the condition that causes these. One of the possible diagnoses we have been made aware of *may* be a form of Russell Silver Syndrome (RSS). This most recent photo shows he is growing well, and seems to be active and relatively happy. After what we learned about RSS, it seems much more likely than the previously supposed progeria, which is good for Austin! Please consider adopting Austin and helping him be the best that he can be! There will never be a place for him in his country outside the walls of an institution, just like our children with Down syndrome.

Could he be YOURS??? www.reecesrainbow.org

Happy Birthday Jacee!

2011-05-31T09:41:00.000-07:00

You all know how much I love Jacee Badeaux. He is an extraordinary young man...and it's his 16th Birthday today!!!

Easter dinner, Cajun Style ;)

Performing in Louisiana

Love it!

Singing with Rascal Flatts!!!!!

Awesome.

Ahem.....meeting his favorite fan ;) Yes, I kissed him.

Backstage waiting to sing...with RF

I love this one....singing God Bless America this past weekend.

My friend Judy, who actually got to MEET him! Green with envy here!!!

Happy Birthday Jacee! I can only hope my boys grow up to be just like you <3

If any of you are on Facebook and want to wish him a Happy Birthday, here's his page :http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jacee-Badeaux/195961243767292

American Honor

2011-05-30T08:24:00.000-07:00

No words necessary.

Fatherless Friday

2011-05-27T09:36:00.000-07:00

My Prayer Babies....Andriy and Sasha. Oh how I wish these two boys would have a family come for them! We pray for them every night at supper...it's Summer's job, and she takes it very seriously :) So, we're hoping the prayers are heard and someone out there sees them today and just KNOWS in their heart that they were meant to be THEIRS!
www.reecesrainbow.org

Andriy:
Boy, Born October 2008
Awww, look at his peach fuzz! Andriy is a cutie with blonde hair and big blue eyes. Andriy has grown so much since he was first listed with us. He's been waiting too long!

His records indicate Down syndrome, a systolic murmur, hypermetropia (far sighted), rachitis (rickets, he needs some sunlight!), and pyelectasis Andriy is too cute, and his conditions can be treated easily at home! He sure looks healthy though….good chubby legs, good color, growing well!

This region historically waives the 10 day waiting period for children with special needs! Hope you will consider any one of these kids in orphanage 41!

LOTS MORE PHOTOS AVAILABLE!!

$1415.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption

Sasha:

Boy, Born March 13, 2004

SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!

Sasha is a precious little gift from God. He is 6 years old, but is not able to do much of anything right now. He is very much still a baby. He may have CP as well, but is considered severely delayed. He does a lot of rocking…in his crib, in his stroller…to keep himself occupied. He has teeth marks in his tongue from chewing on it from boredom. We do not know if he truly has autism, or he is just so severely impacted by the CP or other birth trauma that the caregivers can't really do much with him, and he turns to himself to soothe.

Sasha desperately needs a loving family, and experienced, patient family who can celebrate every step of progress as a miracle of God! I can't wait to see the person he becomes when he has a family to love him and encourage him. He will surely remain bedridden for life if he is sent away, and he is facing that soon.

Please save Sasha!

I AM ELIGIBLE FOR AN OLDER CHILD GRANT

These guys ROCK!

2011-05-26T18:38:00.000-07:00

We went to Travis's Sending Off Deployment Ceremony this afternoon.

It was good to see the Patriotism. The Honor. The Dignity.

The Patriot Guard was there...like they always are. Showing their support for the soldiers and for their families. All I have to say is THESE GUYS ROCK!

Patriot Guard Riders Mission Statement

The Patriot Guard Riders is a diverse amalgamation of riders from across the nation. We have one thing in common besides motorcycles. We have an unwavering respect for those who risk their very lives for America’s freedom and security. If you share this respect, please join us.

We don’t care what you ride or if you ride, what your political views are, or whether you’re a hawk or a dove. It is not a requirement that you be a veteran. It doesn't matter where you’re from or what your income is; you don’t even have to ride. The only prerequisite is Respect.

Our main mission is to attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family. Each mission we undertake has two basic objectives:

Show our sincere respect for our fallen heroes, their families, and their communities.
Shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors.

We accomplish the latter through strictly legal and non-violent means.

To those of you who are currently serving and fighting for the freedoms of others, at home and abroad, please know that we are backing you. We honor and support you with every mission we carry out, and we are praying for a safe return home for all.

Our life in pictures

2011-05-23T13:56:00.000-07:00

I know I should spread these out, but I'm kind of an all or nothing sort of gal....so here's what we've been up to lately :)

This is Michael, stuck in the cat house. Notice the smile on his little brothers face ;)

When Michael thinks I'm favoring his sister...this is what I get....

Artiom waving and Alex spinning the top to my lamp...

Toma looking like Mr. Cool....

This is my best friend in the whole world...Jake. In jail for throwing up my bean soup!

We took the little kids fishing....

My handsome sweetie <3

pretty little lake, or mud hole, however you choose to see it ;)

Didn't even get a nibble..

But Alex is thinking of going in....and it's cold!

In typical Alex fashion, he fell.....

Ooooh, not so funny anymore!!!

This tree is my pride and joy...for about ONE WEEK out of the year,

Then, it looks like the Nightmare Before Christmas tree for the rest of the year.

But oh so pretty right now!

Three of our little ones...Toma didn't want to be in it ;) And I know...Summer is wearing a gymnastics outfit with a fancy skirt with combat boots. I know. (rolling my eyes)

This is what Toma was doing :)

Miss Summer Rose with one of our kitty's, Marco.

My pond that my sweet husband made for me...

Playing in the rain! Do you remember doing that?

Looks fun....ahhh, to be a kid again.

rain on my pond...

Rain on my Alex...

Then it cleared up and they got to play again....

Toma loves the sand....almost as much as the water.

My turtles...enjoying the sunshine.

And finally, me...SANS makeup and hair. Michael took it ;)

And I was brave enough to put it on here!

I don't care who you are.. that there's FUNNY!

2011-05-22T20:03:00.000-07:00

$$$ Sensory water table

Redneck sensory water table

I know, I know....he's still thinking "Why, oh why did I have to get stuck with THIS family"?????

hahaaahaaa!

Fatherless Friday

2011-05-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

I love this little guy. He just seems so sweet. He's the same age as my Michael and knowing how neat boys are at this age...it just makes me so sad that he's in an orphanage and no one is getting the chance to see how awesome he is. He REALLY NEEDS A FAMILY....are you looking for a sweet, kind, cheerful and sociable little boy of your very own ????????? Well, here he is! :)

fp92-8
Gregory J.
Date of Birth: January 2002
Gender: Male
Eyes: Gray
Hair: blond

Character: Sociable, kind, cheerful

Meet Gregory! Gregory is 8 years old and has Apert syndrome. You can tell by the light in his eyes and the smile on his face that he is exactly how he is described above! Sociable, kind, and cheerful. Families who are interested in adopting Gregory must be home study ready before we will be able to get additional medical info about him. However, families who are willing to take a leap of faith are welcome to commit for him until more info is available.

www.reecesrainbow.org

Scotty McCreery---THIS is why I want this guy to win Idol.....

2011-05-16T08:19:00.000-07:00

Josh Turner sings with Scotty McCreery

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGHSL1E6F9E

And I know there have been some really ODD entertainment choices on Idol this year....but this kid is like a ray of hope in a sea of darkness.....I bet Gaga wanted to turn tail and run back to her ring of fire (or hop back on that long black train) when she came across Scotty! Did you see him kiss his cross necklace when she was 'instructing' him??

Love this kid. And I didn't really know who Josh Turner was....until now. And now I love him too :)

My dad went garage saling...this is what he got :)

2011-05-13T14:04:00.000-07:00

A dancing girl. From Vegas. And boy, does he like it!

He can't seem to stop kissing the dang thing....

Not quite sure what he's doing here....probably don't wanna know.

He also got this duck...but he wasn't as excited about that.

I told him I was going to put these on my blog...and he said 'what time can we watch it'??? He thinks he's going to be on t.v.

~ha haa haaaaaaaaaaaaaa~

*****Blogger erased all my comments....! And you all know how I love my comments...

Remember Josiah?

2011-05-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

This sweet boy.....

Well, he's been transferred to a different orphanage... .

and he REALLY needs a family to come for him.

From an adoptive family who visited with him in April 2011: "Josiah was transfered to his current place in October, 2010. He has lost a noticeable amount of weight. He is desperate for personal attention and stimulation. The caretakers at the orphanage really do not know what to do with him. He is very outgoing and has a huge smile for anyone that is willing to give him the time of day. He gets along well with the other children in the groupa and listens well to his caretakers.

He walks and runs, and plays, and feeds himself, but he seems to have slipped into survival mode here and is regessing fast. I feel VERY STRONGLY that he needs out of this place!"

How sad, I pray someone sees his picture and just knows in their heart he was meant to be theirs!

This picture makes me sad

2011-05-09T14:18:00.000-07:00

This is Polly, she's new on Reeces Rainbow.

It makes me sad because even though her mouth is smiling, her eyes aren't.

I can see the anguish and desperation in her eyes, like she's pleading for me to help her find a family, to listen... to hear her cry. To CARE.

And she's just one little girl, out there in a sea of lost souls....begging to be found.

Happy Mothers Day!

2011-05-08T07:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day to all the Mothers out there!

And the ones waiting to be mothers....

I hope you all have a wonderful day.

Fatherless Friday

2011-05-06T11:57:00.000-07:00

These two precious children have waited all their lives for a family. And every year that goes by, the light gets a little dimmer...the chances get a little smaller....their hope gets a little weaker. And it just breaks my heart. Look at the smiles on their faces, imagine the potential they have, and what a wonderful addition they would be to some lucky family. Could it be yours...?????

"Veronika", L 59

Girl, Born on April 18, 2001

Veronika is another Baltic beauty, with blue eyes and blonde hair. She is described as calm and well-behaved. She willingly performs directions from adults, and waits for encouragement and praise for doing a good job. Veronika is very observant…she keeps a close watch on adult's speech and action, understands directions with the help if gestures/signs, tries to imitate adult behaviors, and reacts very positively to praise. She doesn't like to be reprimanded. Veronika gladly engages in contact with a known adult, is cautious in contact with strangers, can cooperate with peers, and can play common games. Nevertheless, she plays very well on her own as well. She is able to act consistently and determinedly when she has a good routine (this is another common thread for children with Down syndrome). She has difficulties "switching gears" quickly. She can analyze and compare in a simple level, but cannot separate colors and sizes yet. She has a small vocabulary, is familiar with the parts of the body, eats independently, drinks from a cup, observes manners at the table, dresses and undresses alone, and brushes her teeth without assistance. Sounds like the perfect child to me!

Boy, Born July 2000

6e1n-15H

YAY, a new picture of Kolya!!! Kolya is almost 11 years old. He will be the oldest child ever adopted through RR (with Down syndrome), so I am praying super hard for his family to find him!!

From his advocates and friends: " Kolya – very delicate and sensitive child who catches every touch, every word or a smile. He may long to sit next to a nice man and just hold hands, enjoying the warmth.

Kolya – special in every sense of the child. He will never be like other children, but this does not negate his ability to enjoy the outside world and bring joy to others. Kolya helpful, helps nurse to collect clothes, toys, clean room. He said not much and indiscriminately, but to understand it is quite possible. He has a good memory. Kolya knows the names of geometric shapes, animals, plants, likes to listen to reading, to collect and puzzles to bother with the designers. Parents need to appreciate their strength, because they need the support of Kolya throughout life. But instead, they can count on sincere affection and love from a really good and loyal man.

****they are both eligible for an older child grant as well :) http://www.reecesrainbow.org/

my Mothers Day gift, early :)

2011-05-04T17:24:00.000-07:00

I wanted this fountain so badly for Toma, because he's such a water freak.

Then it came on sale......And I talked my sweetie into getting it for me.

And it's kinda like the gift that keeps on giving...

Because now I'll ALWAYS know where he is!

***Update...he's had it less than 24 hours and he broke it already! The kid breaks everything!

Can you help this family get to these girls?

2011-05-02T10:32:00.000-07:00

The Ferrones leave in 12 days to travel to Eastern Europe for these sweet girls...and they are still short of funds! Please help out if you can....http://wronginalltherightways-travcat.blogspot.com/

Catherine and Travis have been married for 17 years. They have four children, two by birth and two by adoption. Their oldest son is 16, their oldest daughter was adopted from Haiti at age 7. She is now 10. The second daughter is 7. Their youngest daughter is 3 1/2. She was adopted from the Republic of Georgia at 11 months. She has a very similar condition to little Nastya's Aperts Syndrome. They are so excited that God has led them to bring home two more angels! Please consider donating to Nastya and Moira! Every dollar helps! Thank you!!!

4/12/11—APPT IS MAY 17

Follow the Ferrone family's adoption journey on their blog at http://wronginalltherightways-travcat.blogspot.com/

What does it feel like to become a Princess??

2011-04-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

I've always loved the magical enchantment of the Royal Family....I know not everyone does, but it's always drawn me in . And I really like these two and am so happy for them that they found true love.....

(but the hats are ridiculous!)

What is the world coming to......?

2011-04-28T11:22:00.000-07:00

http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2011/04/28/superman-renounces-citizenship-00th-issue/

Why is it so popular to be anti-American?? I don't get it.

Coloring Easter Eggs

2011-04-25T11:07:00.000-07:00

Coloring eggs...

Toma didn't want any part of it. He just ate while he watched.

Alex and his best egg...

Michael's silly eggs...

Summer being goofy....

Toma trying to climb in with the dogs while the kids did eggs....

Then he wanted more food....

This is the mound of laundry I had to do after we got home....

Toma enjoying his car from the Easter Bunny....

Summers best egg...

Michael's best egg....

And Toma wanting MORE food....

When all kids came down on Easter morning to find their baskets Artiom looked delighted when he saw his and ran over to it and DUMPED it out and ran off with the empty basket and a huge smile on his face! ha haa. He's an odd little duck. And he has a 'thing' for bowls, baskets, and fans. But he's easy to please ;)

ps...Florida pictures in the post below :)

Our Florida mini-vacation :)

2011-04-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

We stayed a few days on the FL panhandle last week....this was taken in Apalachicola, which is a very historic seaport. Used to export a ton of cotton. I found this guy there and decided to ditch Rich for this swashbuckler...

looking for shells and creatures...

Rich and the pirate....right after this picture was taken they started to fight over me.

Rich won and he took me to this historic home in Apalachicola, which belonged to a cotton baron, David Raney.

This palm has been here since the 1800's. Almost as old as my dad.

Sunset at Alligator Point.

A shark came about 2 feet away from me at this place...I wish we had our camera with but we didn't. It was about 4 ft long. I was all done playing in the water after that!

A giant hermit crab and giant snail. The snail would spread out all over my hand and stick. It was neat.

Another secluded spot. Cool roots.

We went to a historic cemetery in Apalachicola...this grave was for 2 babies from the 1800's. Confederate soldiers were also buried here.

a blue crab :)

It was awesome. I'm so glad we used our free tickets...we almost didn't. Our oldest son Shane stayed home with all the kids and I was a little worried about that, but he did an AWESOME job! I was so surprised at how well it went at home. It was so nice to have a few days alone with my husband and the weather was great.

I can't wait to go back :)

Have a Blessed Easter Everyone!

2011-04-24T10:51:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMYP4uJAqY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQcNWYuQH1A&feature=fvwrel

We're off.....almost :)

2011-04-17T18:30:00.000-07:00

We leave early in the morning for Florida.

I'll be back next Saturday :)

The Baha is here :) :)

2011-04-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

I put this on FB last night but forgot about putting it on here for those of you who don't do FB (ahem....Kristin)

Artiom got his Baha today! He was crying in the audiologist office (white coat again) and his glasses were all fogged up, when he blinked his lashes were like little windshield wipers :) Then she put the baha on his head and his whole world changed! You should have seen his face when he could hear for the first time from the side of his head w/o an ear....priceless.

this isn't Toma....but I wanted to show you how he wears it on his head :) Remember, he has his glasses with 2 straps on it, one on the back and one over the top of his head.....so.....he's a sight to see! But a sweet sight to see :) :) Lots going on up on his head! I'll try to get some pictures up soon!

Fatherless Friday

2011-04-15T10:37:00.000-07:00

Are you a paper ready family traveling to Ukr*ine to adopt??? Do you have room in your heart for one more? This is Vanya and his situation is critical...please click on the link below to learn more....

http://www.nogreaterjoymom.com/?spref=fb

And sweet Pauline....I can't believe she's still waiting. She's so smart and able, and what a glorious smile this girl has! She would be an absolute delight to any family :)

Pauline W.

Date of Birth: September 2006

Gender: Female

Eyes: Brown

Hair: Brown

Character: Beautiful, kind, affectionate.

Oh, I am SO happy to finally have new photos and info about this beautiful princess!!!! I believe she may have Mosaic Down Syndrome, we are trying to confirm that. She is very high functioning, healthy, active, and social. She will do so well in a family environment. More photos available, outstanding agency partner in this region! MARRIED COUPLES ONLY, PLEASE

$4206.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

You can find her on http://www.reecesrainbow.org/

5 days

2011-04-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

To this.....

No kids. No cleaning. No noise.

Yeah, it's only for a few days, but it sounds Heavenly right now. I just hope the house is still here when we get home. With the same number of kids in it. Or at least close to the same number ;)

And my song of the day:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x6uPWiEhcs

This song touches my heart....right when I need it!

2011-04-09T19:29:00.000-07:00

Matt Redman ...You Never Let Go

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y83-vMeWc9E

It's one of those 'adoption time' songs for me that is hard to listen to because it holds too many memories and emotions....(the ones I listened to leading up to our adoption... Mercy Me, 'I can only imagine''..I still can't listen to that song). But anyway...you should go take a listen to this one by Matt Redman....It's an awesome, uplifting song.

Be content with what you have; for God Himself has said, "I will never, never let go your hand: I will never never forsake you

Fatherless Friday meets Fabulous Friday

2011-04-08T13:13:00.000-07:00

My friend Rene at chasing-moonlight.blogspot.com jazzed these pictures up for me :) Thanks Renee!

Sweet Kate....is already in the 'older girls' section on Reeces Rainbow. She wants a family so badly. She knows what it means to have someone come and take a child home, she's just waiting so patiently for it to be HER!

Ah, and my sweet Nicholas. He looks so sad :( Wouldn't you love to see a smile on that face? I sure would. I love him <3

He's a very special little boy, with a tender heart. He cries at night sometimes and has no mama or papa to comfort and love him.

This beautiful little girl is Zara. She's so tiny and has had lots of health issues in her short life but is getting stronger everyday and is just waiting for her mama to scoop her up and love her. Talk about precious...

And then there's Josiah. He's also in the 'older boys' section. Which is sad to me, because he's only 6 :(

He's sweet, gentle and so innocent. Yet, so alone in the world. Can you imagine Josiah cuddled up with you on the couch watching a movie? Pushing him on a swing? ....I can.

Do any of these children tug at your heart? You can find them and read more about them at http://www.reecesrainbow.org/