Faith Set Free

Almost There Fundraiser!

2012-02-24T08:29:00.000-08:00

Announcing our Almost There Fundraiser! What perfect timing...as we just got our verbal referral!!!
This will be our FINAL fundraiser, so we are praying for huge SUCCESS!

We've worked hard to bring you some awesome prizes and showcase some amazing shops! Please be sure and click on the wonderful shops that have donated and browse their fabulous products!

Donations can be made through Chip In(not tax deductible)OR through our Reece's Rainbow FSP(tax deductible).

This fundraiser will run until March 31. Winners will be randomly selected and announced on April 2nd.

$5= 2 chances

$10= 5 chances
$50= 25 chances
$100= 50 chances

For every share on Facebook/Twitter= 1 chance

***After you have shared or donated, please add a comment about the particular item you hope to win!***

African Trade Bead Bracelet

Three Trees Art

My Heart Necklace

Lisa Leonard Designs

White Rose Ring Romantic Ring Vintage Filigree Ring

Spotlight Jewelry

"Beauty and the Beach" beaded necklace with butterflies Rescued Offerings

Personalized Hand Stamped Sterling Silver Mama Bird Nest Necklace

sTuck in the Coop

Firefly Necklace

MrsKupeDesigns

Early Toddler Learning Kit

TimeforTots

Award Winning Flowers, Birds, and Butterflies Theme Wall Art coloryourwalls

Sakura Branch Wall Art

coloryourwalls

Sterling Silver HOPE Ring

Many Hearts One Beat

Lifted Up By Down Syndrome Shirt(4)

liftedupbyds

Rainbow Suncatcher with natural driftwood and colorful beads LilahBloomCreations

Butterfly Locket

AmberSky

Personalized Welcome Baby Girl or Boy Bird Print EllenCrimiTrent

Tree of Life Hand Printed Pillow

The Faded Tea Rose

Customized Photo Wall Letter

Happiness is Handmade

Origami patterned Tulips lantern string light

Wingy

Big Sister/Big Brother shirt

zoeysattic

Personalized Twinkle Lights

Bubble Wish

Purple and Blue Handmade Enamel Butterfly Necklace

The Copper Bakery

Red Quartz Necklace

2GirlsinTrouble

Attraction Lily / Origami Lily Bouquet

Joygami4u36- Colorful Blooms

Colorful Pettiskirt

Girly Things Online

***For every $1000 raised another BIG prize will be revealed!***

Fundraiser Coming!

2012-02-21T17:49:00.000-08:00

We are still waiting for our verbal referral and hoping to make our first trip soon. We are going to be launching a BIG fundraiser in 2 days! This will be our FINAL fundraiser, so we hope to go out with a bang! We will have TONS of fabulous prizes...something for everyone!

Please pray and share the word that this LAST fundraiser is a SUCCESS!

Bernadette

2012-02-09T20:04:00.000-08:00

This lovely teen has caught my heart. In November of 2012, Bernadette will turn 16. What should be a happy celebration of her beautiful life, will be a life imprisoned with no escape if she does not find a family before now and then.

This is an urgent situation. She is in dire need. And it is not too late.

There are many more photos of Bernadette. She is very friendly and was so excited to have her picture taken.

Family must have a homestudy approved before committing.

Think of the joy this beautiful young lady could bring to you.

If Bernadette does not find a family before November, there is no more hope. This will be her life.

I beg you to pray for Bernadette. Share the word. Donate to help her family bring her home. And consider...could she be the daughter you were looking for?

Bernadette- http://reecesrainbow.org/32733/bernadette

A Ripple Effect

2012-02-08T19:23:00.000-08:00

"Have a ripple effect..."

This adoption journey has taught me so much. For that alone, I am grateful. I have been humbled, witnessed miracles, watched heartbreak, and rejoiced.

And I've prayed without ceasing.

It was just the place God needed me at this stage in my life. He broke me down and slowly put the pieces back together.

Some people think it's not a lot. And I agree. One child among millions is not effective. It does not even put a dent in the whole of things.

But...

One child.

Will be saved...

And the alternative is doing nothing. Jesus has called us to act.

It starts with one, but it does not end there.

Already through this adoption, I have watched 5 friends who had never dreamed of international adoption, commit to children. A total of 7 more children will know the love of a family.

Do you see it?

What you do or don't do...causes a ripple effect...

It is not just one...

It might start with one...

But surely, it does not end there...

As We Wait

2012-01-31T19:30:00.000-08:00

"What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against?"

Since our Dossier has been submitted, we are one step closer to our first trip. In order to cut costs and to allow a parent to stay behind with our other children, only one of us will be travelling. With the transfer of our son to Chicago and the unexpected added expenses of travel back and forth to him, we are being hit hard from all angles. We are going to to launch another Fundraiser to help with the costs to bring Shannon home!

Please watch in the next couple weeks as we host our While We Wait Fundraiser!

A Single Step

2012-01-25T21:38:00.000-08:00

Cullen

"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step."

This sweet boy has been on my heart. He is a strong, healthy, beautiful little boy who is in 4th grade. He is full of love and life. He is musical and loves to dance. He is very social and has many friends in his class. He is very independent...folds his own clothes, washes his face each night.

Cullen is 10 years old and has been living in a mental institution since age 5.

Living in a mental institution with no family and he has accomplished so much. What would this precious boy be capable of achieving with a family to love him?

"If God has called you, do not spend time looking over your shoulder to see who is following."

What's Next?

2012-01-20T19:58:00.000-08:00

We have submitted our Dossier! It is currently in Shannon's country. We will wait for approval and dates for travel.

We are hoping to raise the next bit of funds for travel. While we await our next fundraiser we are offering our beautiful Orphan Bracelets. Our children love working on these bracelets and playing a role in bringing Shannon home. Each bracelet is made using only "orphan beads" the leftovers collected from jewelers. Orphan beads, the discarded ones are often dubbed "useless". These bracelets serve as a reminder of the 147 million orphans in the world who have been discarded, set aside...forgotten.

All donations of $10 or more will receive one of these BEAUTIFUL bracelets. All donations can be submitted to our FSP which is tax deductible! Please contact me via comment, email, or Facebook and we will get your bracelet to you!

WINNERS!!!

2012-01-19T18:37:00.000-08:00

Did we do it? Friends, not only did we do it, but we did it 119%!!! Can you believe it? Our Dossier is out of here!

First and foremost, our most wholehearted thank you to each and every person who made this possible. Without our donors, NONE of this would have been possible. I wish there were words fit to express our gratitude. I wish I could do it justice.

Thank You.

Those who prayed us through, those who shared, those who donated...each one of you played a most amazing role. The ransom is large...but because of all of you...we are almost there.

Thank You.

I wish I had enough prizes to give everyone something(we'll have to do it even bigger next time!). Winners, you will click on your prize and be taken directly to your donor's shop. I will forward each winners name to the donor. You can tell them you are the winner of the "One Less Orphan Fundraiser". They will make arrangements to ship your prize right to you! If you experience any problems, please feel free to contact me!

So, here we go!

Personalized Adoption Announcements- Sarah White

Adoption Scripture Art(Ephesians 1)- Mandy Elise

Down Syndrome Awareness Superhero Cape- Connie Lindquist

Kenyan Necklace and Earring Set- Deb W

Thirty One Toddler Backpack and Matching Bib- Connie Lindquist

Thirty One $25 Gift Certificate- Natalie Gonzalez

10 Minature Custom Polaroid Fridge Magnets- Stori Wann

Mine For a Moment Print- Heather Brown

Down Syndrome Doll- Amy Boroughs

Silver Unisex T-shirt Adoption is the New Pregnant- Beckwith Family

I’ll Go Anywhere Print- Cletus Williams II

You Have Done Wonderful Things Print- Jennifer Pinard

Dochka Adoption Pendent- Michelle Marble

Superhero Cape and Matching Doll- Tamara Saylor

Hand Stamped Multi-Fabric Growth Chart- Shellie Snow

Hope Painting- Jeremiah 29:11- Melissa Moos

Pastel Felt Hearts Banner- Terressa Broussard

Little Monsters Felt Plushies- Jessica Whiteaker

Fatherless- Original Mixed Media Art Print- Justine Foster

Retro Jungle Toss Chocolate Brown Swirl Minky Baby Blanket- Christina Schye

Born In My Heart Keychain- Connie Lindquist

Tropical Felt Rainbow Mobile- Rebecca Jenks

Hope is an Anchor to the Soul Art- Deanna Sader

Praying God’s Word for Orphans-Joanna Rist

Lulu Wrap- Richard Rector

New Item Larger Little Ones Teether Toy- Heather Hastings

Set of 6 Nesting Bowls- Krista Voelker

Tiny Tot Twirli-kidz Hand Kite- Nicole Horvath

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Print- Nancy Feigley Barlow

Fine Art Print $50 Store Credit- Jill Spicer

Baby Girl Leggings- Breanne Sproule

Ethiopian Pride T-Shirt- Sharon of http://sharon-sharonspage.blogspot.com/

Cindy’s Custom Pincushions- Julia Nalle, Sonya Reece, Linda Benham, Diana Walker, Vicky Gotham, Diana Harris

My Heart or Where I’m From Adoption Print- Maria Yakkey

Wish Prayer Locket- Brooke Annessa

$50 Gift Certificate Blanket of your choice-Amanda Rhodes

100 Wishes Quilt- Sarah White
My Heart Necklace- Bessie Barth

Owls Adopt a Toucan Print- Charrissa Browning

Believe Art Print- Valerie Rieben

Princess Sock Doll- Kelly Dirkes

Fingerprint Necklace- Gretchen Thibault

Dream Acre's NEWEST LOCKET DESIGN Personalized Locket – Carla Dobrovits

Flower Hairbow “Shannon”- Katie Evans

Peace Sign Prints(5)- Michele Ellis

Paper Lace Chandelier Monarch Butterfly Mobile – Rosemary Marshall

Down Syndrome Awareness Cat's Eye Bracelet- Faith Ewers

Mary Gayle Dee Will's Orphan Baby Dolls- Autumn Dean

Your Age Rocks Zebra Print Birthday Pettidress- Renee Tam

Red Thread Dragonfly Barrette- Heidi Hopkins

BIG News

2012-01-12T09:22:00.000-08:00

Your donation will be MATCHED today! We have been BLESSED beyond words by an Anonymous donor who has so generously stepped forward to match all donations up to $500 TODAY!

So...your donation will be DOUBLED today! AND you will be entered into our AWESOME Giveaway!!!

We Are The Church

2012-01-11T16:33:00.000-08:00

"You and I, we are the Church, no? We have to share with our people. Suffering today is because people are hoarding, not giving, not sharing. Jesus made it very clear. Whatever you do to the least of my brethren, you do it to me. Give a glass of water, you give it to me. Receive a little child, you receive me." Mother Teresa

I am so humbled by the people I have met through this Fundraiser. Hearing their stories has made this journey to Shannon even more amazing. Stories of love, loss, tragedy. Stories of children with special needs, stories of adoption. Stories that should have been written, but were not.

I had the privilege of meeting one lady, who I'll call "Joy". Joy is an awesome and creative artist and owner of of an Etsy shop. Joy is an advocate for adoption. 4 years ago, Joy and her husband found themselves in the middle of an adoption of a special needs child from Asia. They had huge dreams and excitedly prepared for this new adventure. And then, their dreams were shattered. Joy's husband was driving home from work when he was involved in an accident and lost his life. Not only did Joy lose her best friend, she lost the dream of little girl who would someday call her "mommy". Joy has poured her heart into her work, as she picked up the pieces and tried to recreate this new life...without her husband by her side.

The story of another artist, Kelly O'Neill's beautiful portrait "Mine For a Moment" reminds us that love, in the here and now, is really all that we have. Please read more about the story behind her painting at Mine for a Moment.

People have reached out and shared their hearts. A former special needs teacher whose children left a lasting impression on her heart, an older woman who lost her child with Down Syndrome 29 years ago, a baby with Down Syndrome placed in the hands of another family at birth.

And then there is Shelley. Shelley and her family has walked such a similar path as we have. Starting with an adoption and ending in a hospital. Unfortunately, Shelley's precious Gaby never returned back home with the family that loved her so much.

Coincidence? I think not. We are the Church. I am so proud of this fundraiser. What started as strangers... ended in unity of friends. One little girl. One cause. Together we will do this...

In addition, to the wonderful prizes below, some of our donors are also featuring additional prizes for the winners!

ILOVEITALL stocks a cheerful array of subway art prints & motivational typography posters, custom & personalized home decor and note cards, mini books & journals, as well as an eclectic selection of cool crafting supplies. Find shared news of special sales & coupon codes on their blog and Facebook.

Even though she's always loved crafting handmade cards and gifts, it wasn't until a dear friend of 33 years gave her some scrapbooking supplies for a birthday gift that Monika began documenting and recording all the stories and memories that she had been holding close to her heart. Soon after, her husband surprised her with a Canon 40D and that's when things started getting serious! Now that she's seen the light, you will find Monika creating art prints, mini books and layouts. That's when her three children aren't asking questions, using her markers, sneaking pretty paper or stealing her glue sticks. She serves on several creative teams and has been featured on numerous blogs and in print.

Winner receives $20 shop credit and I pay the shipping. If the winner wishes to purchase an item for more that $20, I will prepare an invoice for the price difference. In the meantime, all readers can use the coupon code ILOVEITALL for a 15% discount on their purchases.

One Less Orphan Fundraiser

2012-01-03T19:32:00.000-08:00

I have watched the Lord's work unfold. Literally, before my eyes. The hearts of generous people have created an impact on me that will live forever. Changed. That is what I am. Thank you to each and every person who has prayed, shared, donated...and thank you to the amazing talents of these creative friends who have given so selflessly of their time and amazing talents to bring one little girl HOME!

This Fundraiser is very special to my heart. Each item is handcrafted by people who have been blessed with tremendous gifts. Every piece is unique and beautiful. I hope that you will take the time and look at their shops. If you need birthday presents, adoption gifts or just something fun to add to your life...please consider buying from one of these friends. Not only are they exceptionally artistic, they are also people who have chosen to use their creations to bring Shannon home.

Fundraiser will run until January 18. Winners will be randomly selected using an online generator and announced January 19. Here's how it will work:

$5= 2 chances
$10= 5 chances
$50= 25 chances
$100= 50 chances

For every share on Facebook/Twitter= 1 chance

After you have shared or donated, please add a comment about the particular item you hope to win!

Personalized Birth Date Baby Nursery Birth Adoption Announcement . 8x10 // Choice of Colors

iloveitall.etsy.com

Adoption Scripture Art CHOSEN (Ephesians 1) 8x10 Fine Art Print

http://www.etsy.com/shop/lifeverse

Down Syndrome Awareness - Superhero Cape

http://www.etsy.com/shop/BugOnARug

Kenyan Necklace and Earring Set

http://www.etsy.com/shop/gabeshelley

Thirty One Toddler Backpack and Matching Bib

http://brownstreeintheforest.blogspot.com/p/thirty-one.html

Thirty One $25 Gift Certificate(including tax and free shipping)

http://brownstreeintheforest.blogspot.com/p/thirty-one.html

10 Miniature Custom Polaroid Photo Magnets For Your Fridge

http://www.etsy.com/shop/KellyONeillArt

Mine For a Moment Print- This is a piece of art by Kelly O'Neill that reminds each of us that moments can be fleeting, and we must treasure every one. For some, it's about love. For others, it's about letting go

http://mineforamoment.com

Down Syndrome Doll

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ClothdollCache?ref=seller_info

Silver Unisex TShirt "adoption is the new pregnant" - American Apparel Size S

http://www.etsy.com/shop/thenewpregnant?ref=seller_info

I'll Go Anywhere 8x10 (white)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/considerlilies

You Have Done Wonderful Things 8x10

http://www.etsy.com/shop/considerlilies

Dochka (Daughter in Russian) Adoption Pendant - Your Choice of Color and Personalization

http://www.etsy.com/shop/lovebloomseternal

Superhero Cape and Matching Superhero Sock Doll

http://www.etsy.com/shop/promisekeptcreations

Hand Stamped Multi-Colored Fabric Growth Chart

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Heartwares?ref=seller_info

Hope Painting - Jeremiah 29:11 - Print Mounted on Wood

http://www.etsy.com/shop/DebbieSaenz

Pastel felt hearts banner/ garland/ bunting

http://www.etsy.com/shop/LullabyMobiles

Little Monsters Felt Plushies

http://www.etsy.com/shop/JestersRealm

Fatherless- original mixed media print

http://www.etsy.com/shop/artsieandie

Retro Jungle Toss Chocolate Brown Swirl MInky Baby Blanket Lovey Lions Tigers Giraffes Elephants

http://www.etsy.com/shop/BabyMyLove

Born In My Heart Keychain

http://www.etsy.com/shop/FootprintsOfCharity

Tropical Felt Rainbow Mobile

http://www.etsy.com/shop/DanielleRoseDesigns

Hope is an Anchor to the Soul, Expressive Word Canvas

http://www.etsy.com/shop/everlastingdoodle

Praying God's Word for Orphans

http://www.etsy.com/shop/overflowofblessings

LULU WRAP ///deep teal///cocoa brown///eggplant///or rust///

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ellemnopshop

New Item Larger Little ones Great for Pretend Play, or all natural easy to grab teether toy for your babe

http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheBabyBungalow

Set of 6 nesting bowls, waldorf toy

http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheBabyBungalow

Tiny Tot Twirli-kidz Hand Kite Twirly Tummy Tickler in Fiery Colors, Orange Red Yellow

http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheBabyBungalow

Inspirational Art, Dreams (Somewhere Over the Rainbow), 8x10 Fine Art Print

http://www.etsy.com/shop/artbyerinleigh

Fine Art Print $50 Store Credit

http://www.etsy.com/shop/artbyerinleigh

Baby girl leggings, hand knit leg warmers for babies

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Melimebabybeeshop

Ethiopian Pride Tshirt International Adoption(girl or boy)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Onein5million

Cindy's Custom Pincushion

My Heart 8x10 Mixed Media Print-Reece's Rainbow Donation(2 winners) OR Where I'm From 8x10 Mixed Media Adoption Print-Reece's Rainbow http://www.etsy.com/shop/CrayonFreckles

Wish-prayer Locket - Believe... necklace

http://www.etsy.com/shop/monicajewels

$50 Gift Certificate for a blanket of your choice

http://www.etsy.com/shop/BabyBeulah

100 Wishes Quilt

http://www.etsy.com/shop/sewcrazee

"My Heart"(wood painted brooch from Russia)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/belovedjane

Owls adopt a Toucan - art print

http://www.etsy.com/shop/talltiffany

Believe Motivational Inspirational Multicolored Giclee Print 8x8

http://www.etsy.com/shop/PolychromesPalace

Princess sock doll for your special needs princess and every little princess available with scent patches and weights

http://www.etsy.com/shop/promisekeptcreations

One or Two Child Fingerprints in Fine Silver Personalized Heart Pendant for Necklace- Medium

http://www.etsy.com/shop/LilyBuds

Dream Acre's NEWEST LOCKET DESIGN Personalized Locket within a Locket 6 writing surfaces

http://www.etsy.com/shop/DreamAcreDesigns

Flower Hairbow featuring custom picture of "Shannon"
http://www.etsy.com/shop/peachykeenhair

Peace Sign Hand Pulled Print(5 print cards available)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Paint4Ethiopia

Paper Lace Chandelier Monarch Butterfly Mobile - pink

http://www.etsy.com/shop/DragonOnTheFly

Down Syndrome Awareness Cat's Eye Bracelet - FREE Shipping USA

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ShadesofAwareness

Mary Gayle Dee Will's Orphan Baby Dolls

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Yuoz

Your Age Rocks Zebra Print Birthday Pettidress

http://www.etsy.com/shop/madgrrl

Red Thread Dragonfly Barrette

http://www.etsy.com/shop/theglassgecko

Dossier Complete

2012-01-01T17:57:00.000-08:00

I love this picture of Shannon. Look at her little personality! Isn't she beautiful?

Dossier is complete and waiting to be submitted! We are working and saving for the $3000 that stands between us and our precious girl.

We need to submit our Dossier before our documents become outdated, so we are very pressed for time. We are hoping to launch another fundraiser soon. In the meantime, could you do something? First and foremost, PRAY. We know that as steep as this mountain seems right now...nothing is impossible through Him. Second, SHARE. Share this face, our story....with everyone you know. And third, DONATE. Every dollar counts.

"Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.'" Mark 10:27

Called To Move

2011-12-27T21:58:00.000-08:00

"Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked" Psalm 82:3-4

He calls us to move...

He commands us to act...

You can be the most compassionate person, the most sympathetic person and yet, none of that matters.

You are called to move.

And I'll put it out here boldly...you can do more.

I can do more.

I look around at all we have and it is sickening because the truth of the matter is...

Unless we are acting...none of it matters.

All the talking, thinking, feeling is nothing if there is no doing. I will not settle for living a life of luxury while there are thousands...thousands...who do not even have the basics or necessities...

What is compassion without action?

Unloved, hungry, cold, scared, alone.

You can do more...will you move?

Sammy

Nettie

Millie

Mikale

"If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?" I John 3:17

The Need Is Great

2011-12-18T09:28:00.000-08:00

We have had to wait on the apostilling of one of our documents from out of state. So, we've bought some time.

We still need $3,000 to submit our Dossier. There is no time for fundraising right now. And yet, the need is great.

One little girl...

...is waiting...

"Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Luke 6: 38

Winners!!!

2011-12-13T13:57:00.000-08:00

First and foremost, thank you from the bottom of my heart for each and every cent that has been raised for our Shannon.

We are that much closer to submitting our Dossier because of each one of you.

The love and support behind ever dollar means more than I will ever be able to express. Every person who has prayed, donated or shared has been added to a list that will be part of Shannon's story. Thank you for being a part of this journey.

And now...the WINNERS!!!!

Randomly selected here they are!

Amazon $100 gift card- Cathy Moynahan

Target $100 gift card- Nancy Hughes Holden

Mystery Gift- Rosemary Marshall

Apple iPad- Prentice Welch

$150 gift from Planet Jill- Connie Lindquist

Zulugrass Leaky Collection Necklace- Tanya Robinson

Kindle Fire- Rose Henry

Scentsy Gift Basket- Cara Suttles

Worth It

2011-12-10T20:08:00.000-08:00

"I'm not telling you it's going to be easy. I'm telling you it's going to be worth it."

I'll be honest...this has been a rough journey. It isn't easy asking for help. It isn't easy fighting for a child across seas when not many people understand why you do it. It isn't easy throwing yourself at the feet of Jesus and begging for His mercy.

But...

It's worth it.

Across the ocean...our blanket has found it's way into Shannon's bed. This beautiful little face is worth the fight. So worth it.

Pray. Adopt. Donate.

2011-12-05T14:59:00.000-08:00

Did you know that in this day and age thousands of children are still abandoned because of a disorder such as Down Syndrome?

Cullen

Cast out.

Margit

Left for nothing.

Kyle

They are all deserving.

Tara

Every. Single. One.

Felix

Please, don't turn away...don't close your eyes...

Celine

Do Something. Pray. Adopt. Donate.

By His Grace

2011-11-30T18:54:00.000-08:00

"Let us touch the dying, the poor, the lonely and the unwanted according to the graces we have received and let us not be ashamed or slow to do the humble work" Mother Teresa

I'm finally beginning to see the bigger picture. The greater hand of God. I've been terribly discouraged. When we committed to Shannon, the adoption of our son, Ethan was supposed to be finalized. We were within days of it. Ethan was supposed to be home, enjoying life with his family. We knew that Shannon's adoption process would take at least a year. We would take that year and keep active with life and before we knew it, Shannon would be home.

It didn't work out that way. Ethan didn't end up coming home from the hospital. He had one complication after another. Thus, the adoption could not be finalized. We spent months working to advocate for our son and find a solution that would be in his best interest. We spent months trying to keep life moving smoothly, maintaining normalcy for our children at home, and doing our best.

When we committed to Shannon we were blessed to be able to pay for the upfront fees as they came in. We didn't need to fundraise. We didn't need to fall on our knees and rely on GOD. We could do it on our own.

He doesn't want us to do it on our own. He has made that abundantly clear.

As time went on and the struggles with our son continued, there were days I lost faith in most of humanity. How could people not care about this precious boy? Why couldn't they put their opinions aside and do what was best for this baby who has spent nearly 16 months of his life in a hospital.

And as we were tending to our son, God was working. He was busy restoring my faith in humanity.

Amazing, beautiful friends(though many were even strangers) who care about our family and our beautiful Shannon. People were praying. People were donating. At our weakest...and we were carried.

And my heart has been renewed.

Every single prayer and donation has been more appreciated than any one of you could ever imagine. We fall on our knees before God, choke back the tears and rejoice with every single one. I wish there were words that could do justice to our thanks.

I hope you all know this…if you have prayed, if you have donated…YOU have directly contributed to rescuing this child. A little girl, already transferred, already living in a mental institution…you will help bring her home. Maybe we all aren’t in a position to adopt, but we all can do something.

“The King will reply ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me’ ”

Sending Love Across The Ocean

2011-11-25T14:23:00.000-08:00

We are so blessed that our sweet friend is bringing a gift to our girl! We were able to send a blanket especially for Shannon to use on her bed. From our heart to hers. We also sent along some photo books of our family for the director to see.

Our children very carefully chose the softest, prettiest blanket they could find. We must have spent hours searching for the "perfect one". They were so proud to send it off.

We are praying that our friend is able to see Shannon and take new pictures for us. We are eager to make sure that she is doing well and to see her beautiful face again.

Amazing how this blanket, chosen with so much love, will soon keep our little princess warm...

Giveaway Extended!

2011-11-20T19:09:00.000-08:00

We are going to extend our Fundraiser Giveaway with the addition of some NEW prizes!

Our Giveaway will end December 12th and winners will be randomly selected and announced December 13th. Anyone who shares on Facebook or Twitter will also be entered to win!

$100 Amazon Gift Card

$100 Target Gift Card

Mystery Gift

$5,500 is the magic number. That is the amount we will need to submit with our dossier. The quicker we raise the money, the quicker we can submit.

We simply can’t do it alone.

550 people commit to $10

220 people commit to $25

110 people commit to $50

100 people commit to $100

It’s certainly nothing God can’t provide.

I’m asking if you will prayerfully consider committing to Shannon.

I would love to see Him move this mountain…

We are going to offer a Fundraiser as incentive to raise these funds…

$10= 1 chance
$50= 25 chances
$100= 50 chances

Please make your donation to our Chip In on the upper left side of the blog. Winners will be announced(randomly selected) November 30!

We are offering the following prizes!

Apple iPad 2

A $150 gift certificate to Planet Jill(thank you to Planet Jill for contributing to our fundraiser!). Custom Charm necklaces and bracelets.

A beautiful Zulugrass multi-strand necklace from the Leaky Collection(Handcrafted by Maasai women of Kenya).

Kindle Fire (this will be released by the time our winners are selected)

Scentsy Gift Basket

We want to again thank each and every one of you who have donated and to those that have so graciously contributed the gifts for this fundraiser. In the midst of all the heartache that is surrounding us, we are able to have this little glimpse of light at the end of the tunnel. Working to bring our daughter home has brought us peace. We don’t have the solution for everything, but to one little girl in Eastern Europe, there is an answer. And we will do what it takes to bring her home…

Let God Write Your Story

2011-11-15T20:36:00.000-08:00

Are you courageous enough? Do you have big enough faith? It takes a huge leap to hand God the keys to your life and let Him take control. It's an issue that I've been dealing with in many aspects of my life, including this adoption.

We talk about faith all the time...but, have you ever stepped back and just let that faith work?

Personally, I'm struggling with that right now. There is always this stubborn part of me that seems to forget we work in God's time...not mine.

I look at this adoption and see the work it's going to take. We are a long way from our goal of $5,500. Our Dossier is ready for submission. And we can't submit till the money is there. We have 2 weeks left until our fundraiser is over. And then what? I've stood in awe as I've watched God work in other families to bring them down to the very last penny. And then, I turn and look at our own huge mountain and wonder how it's going to move.

My faith is not as great as I sometimes believe.

So, what would happen if I stood back and let God write this story? Truly, if I have enough faith, I would. And yet, I'm afraid that if I do, it won't happen.

"Immediately, Jesus held out His hand and caught him. "You of little faith" he said "Why did you doubt?" Matthew 14:31

Having little faith holds us back from allowing ourselves to marvel at the full works of God. If we were not restrained by little faith, how many of us would move forward to adoption? I know that the biggest factor for most people is money...what if we all stepped out in faith?

Have you ever noticed...doubt and failure go hand and hand?

Tonight, I gave it to God..."Lord, write my story..."

One little girl in Bulgaria, one way to get her home, one God of miracles to do it...

I Choose To Move

2011-11-06T18:14:00.000-08:00

"The only cure for grief is action."

What would the world be like if we did not act? For me, the better part of my day is spent acting, rather than simply thinking. I act when I care for my family, when I homeschool my children, when I work, when I cook, when I manage my household. I act when I pick up my Bible, when I pray...quite simply, I choose to move.

Years ago, we felt the call to adopt..to care for the orphans. We knew it wasn't the most ideal time. We wanted biological children, wanted to be established. I'm not spontaneous, I wanted to plan. I needed the idea to take shape before I could act. In other words, life took precedence to that call.

And so we waited.

Children grew, life happened.

And there was that call again.

This time there was no reason to wait. We had to act.

The grief, the heartache that consumes these children is eye opening. And the cure, the only solution is action.

To choose to move. You could choose to sit and wait for the right time, the perfect circumstances, the ideal life. But you could be choosing to wait forever.

What would happen if, instead, you chose to move? If you took the first step and found an agency? If you committed to a child? Committed to a family? Chose to fund a child so a family could step up? Chose to fund a family so a child could come home? There may be only one way to grieve, but there are many, many ways to act. And the only cure for grief...is action

Never Forgotten Friday

2011-11-04T06:46:00.000-07:00

Kade

RESILIENT

Tiana

STRONG

Andrue

COURAGEOUS

Dasha

PERFECT

Madden

HOPEFUL

Veronika

BEAUTIFUL

Kolya

INNOCENT

Unlimited potential. Capable of love. Deserving of a chance.

Smiling through it all. Abandoned...unloved...how many of us would still have hearts so pure?

New Prizes Added!!!

2011-10-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

$5,500 is the magic number. That is the amount we will need to submit with our dossier. The quicker we raise the money, the quicker we can submit.

We simply can’t do it alone.

550 people commit to $10

220 people commit to $25

110 people commit to $50

100 people commit to $100

It’s certainly nothing God can’t provide.

I’m asking if you will prayerfully consider committing to Shannon.

I would love to see Him move this mountain…

We are going to offer a Fundraiser as incentive to raise these funds…

$10= 1 chance
$50= 25 chances
$100= 50 chances

Please make your donation to our Chip In on the upper left side of the blog. Winners will be announced(randomly selected) November 30!

We are offering the following prizes!

Apple iPad 2

A $150 gift certificate to Planet Jill(thank you to Planet Jill for contributing to our fundraiser!). Custom Charm necklaces and bracelets.

A beautiful Zulugrass multi-strand necklace from the Leaky Collection(Handcrafted by Maasai women of Kenya).

Kindle Fire (this will be released by the time our winners are selected)

Scentsy Gift Basket

The Least Of These...

2011-10-26T22:21:00.000-07:00

Walter

"But he said to me 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in your weakness'. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me"
II Corinthians 12:9

Marley

"The Lord is near the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit" Psalm 34:18

Timothy

"I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." Matthew 17:20-21

Debbie

"Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me." Matthew 25:36

Pray Her Home...

2011-10-21T08:03:00.000-07:00

“You can close your eyes to things you don't want to see, but you can't close your heart to the things you don't want to feel.”

Please help bring Shannon home…

Fundraiser for Shannon!

2011-10-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

$5,500 is the magic number. That is the amount we will need to submit with our dossier. The quicker we raise the money, the quicker we can submit.

We simply can’t do it alone.

550 people commit to $10

220 people commit to $25

110 people commit to $50

100 people commit to $100

It’s certainly nothing God can’t provide.

I’m asking if you will prayerfully consider committing to Shannon.

I would love to see Him move this mountain…

We are going to offer a Fundraiser as incentive to raise these funds…

$10= 1 chance
$50= 25 chances
$100= 50 chances

Please make your donation to our Chip In on the upper left side of the blog. Winners will be announced(randomly selected) November 30!

We are offering the following prizes!

A $150 gift certificate to Planet Jill(thank you to Planet Jill for contributing to our fundraiser!). Custom Charm necklaces and bracelets.

A beautiful Zulugrass multi-strand necklace from the Leaky Collection(Handcrafted by Maasai women of Kenya).

Apple iPad 2

Adeye Is Helping Families Spread The Word!

2011-10-11T07:48:00.000-07:00

Adeye- NoGreater Joy Mom has been gracious to lend fundraising families exposure through her blog!

We are desperate. Everything we have paid upfront (approximately $6,800) has been at our own cost. We did not have any time to fundraise before committing to Shannon. We are prayerful that the Lord will provide the additional funding we need.

We are awaiting our I-800 approval. Our biometrics appointment is next week. Our dossier is ready and waiting to be submitted as soon as we get our approval.

We still have about $15,000 left to raise.

One step at a time…to bring our daughter home…

Bring Them Home...

2011-10-10T20:27:00.000-07:00

"Believe that there's light at the end of the tunnel. Believe that you might be that light for someone else."

Heather

What happens if no one comes for them?

Kade

"A tiny change today brings a dramatically different tomorrow."

Tiana

"Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat."

Andrue

"Let us more and more insist on raising funds of love, of kindness, of understanding, of peace. Money will come if we seek first the Kingdom of God - the rest will be given."

Jolene

"The hunger for love is much more difficult to remove than the hunger for bread"

Kaleb

Hands and hearts connected, we can build bridges of love that will carry these children home…

The Ripple Effect- $1 Fundraiser For Shannon

2011-10-05T13:24:00.000-07:00

"Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."

Alone, it’s just $1. Doesn’t seem like much. But, what if everyone donated just $1…then shared the message and those people donated just $1?

Alone we can make little ripples of difference, but together we can make a wave…

Will you do it? Will you be a part of this ripple effect?

It’s simple…here’s how it works:

You donate $1. That’s it. Then, you spread the word. Share on Facebook, Twitter, blog about it…

Donate via Chip In on the upper left side of the blog.

$1.

If you feel called to give more, we won’t stop you!

Together, we can bring Shannon home.

Scentsy Fundraiser For Shannon

2011-10-02T19:00:00.000-07:00

Scentsy Fundraiser to bring Shannon home!

Place an order and a portion of the proceeds will go directly to bringing her HOME!

My sweet friend is hosting a party at her home on Friday, October 7 from 7-10 pm. Please email me for directions. Open to everyone! If you cannot make the party, feel free to place your order online. Your purchase will be shipped directly to your home.

https://jennrakowski.scentsy.us/Home

Click on Buy From Party Little Wonders under "Open Parties." Orders can be delivered directly to your door.

Scentsy now offers Solid Perfumes as well as great Holiday Warmers, Fall and Winter Scentsy Bar Scents, Stuffed Animals and Scents/Warmers for men.

Please join with us and make this happen!

His Hands And Feet...

2011-09-28T20:24:00.000-07:00

"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful"

There has not been a movement yet in the church. The radical type of movement where people just come together and profoundly change the course of the future. Don't get me wrong, it happens with individuals within the church or even as small groups...but, as a whole, as a body...it isn't there.

There are so many hearts open to adopting children with special needs, so many hearts that are called. Yet, these eager hearts quickly turn to fear because of the financial obligation. It's a costly burden, no doubt.

"This is how we know what love is. Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters." I John 3:16

Compassion on earth. Compassion of the world. To be His hands and feet. He no longer walks this earth...we do. We are His eyes to the world. Ours are the hearts that hold on...the bodies that can do His will.

And something stops us from doing it. We need unity, as a body, to help our people bring these children home. Think about all the lives that could be saved if we acted together.

Please consider doing something for a waiting child...

Isabelle

Marlowe

Brett

Dawn

God's Hand...

2011-09-16T21:48:00.000-07:00

I have started this over and over…trying to think of the right words. The ones that would express the thankfulness that we feel. The words aren’t coming and I’m not doing such a good job.

Instead, let me just try pouring out my heart. It’s been a rough few days. We’ve been struggling with the up and down roller coaster of our youngest son’s health issues. Yesterday…felt hopeless.

“The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him” Lamentations 3:25

By God’s grace and mercy…our FSP shot up. While we were out…while we were in the midst of our deepest of despair…HE was moving.

He provides. And He has assured us that when the road gets rough, He will carry us.

He will bring our daughter home.

I cannot see who donated to our FSP…so I pray you are reading. We treasure each and every donation. Every time it moves up it

feels like God whispering “closer”. This blessing...this timing...meant everything. It gave us the hope we so desperately needed...

For God to lay our Shannon on someone’s heart means the world to us. She has never known the love of being part of a family. Do you know what you are going to be a part of? The hugeness of it all? A little girl will be carried to the United States, away from the four walls of a mental institution. Out of a life of despair into a life of love. We are waiting…may grace and mercy set her free…

Thank You…

Why Not Me?

2011-09-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

He’s won my children’s hearts and they desperately want to bring him home. However, he is in a different part of the country than Shannon, so we cannot. What we can do is pray. And advocate for him.

Roland is 3 and is simply the most precious little guy. Roland has Dwarfism. He is learning to walk and talk. And he needs...deserves...a family. Will you consider this sweet boy?

Doug, is already transferred and in the institution with our Shannon. If we didn't have 4 boys, we would bring him home. Look at his beautiful face! He is so handsome. Little Doug lived with his biological family until he was 16 months old. He needs a home.

Princess Annie is in an orphanage where the children are in dire need. They are very small and malnourished. She is desperate for a family.

Little Diane has a disorder often called "Babydoll Syndrome". Isn't she adorable? Is this your daughter? Do you hear God calling?

Sandra is waiting. This little one has Arthogryposis. And is she determined? She can sit up and walk with a walker. She is described as a leader and very talkative! Is this the one?

Don't leave them wondering "why not me?"....

What It Will Take...

2011-09-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

"For nothing is impossible with God"

Luke 1:37

He has brought us this far. He has paved the way.

Our I-800 is mailed. We have everything compiled for our dossier, as soon as we get approval, we can submit.

But, we are thousands, yes, thousands, of dollars short.

What will it take? Hands coming together...building a bridge to bring Shannon home.

The further we delve into this, the more urgent the need for a "rescue mission". We can never get to the point where we are unable to move because of funding.

Shannon has lost her biological family and her original committed family. We cannot let her lose another.

I know, I know...money is tight. We feel it every day, in every way. And we sacrifice. Each one of us is committed to sacrificing in order to bring Shannon home.

I'm telling you....$5 is not too little. Every dollar adds up.

Even better, when you donate to our FSP on the right hand side…it is tax deductable. Or donate via Chip In on the top left hand side of the page. For every $10 donation right now we will send you an orphan bracelet as a thank you.

If you don’t like doing online payments, you can also send a check to Reece’s Rainbow by mail. Just make sure you specify Shannon’s name- for the Shpak Family on the check.

Mail to:

Reece's Rainbow
PO Box 4024
Gaithersburg, MD 20885

Pray...please pray that He will provide. That the worry of funding will not be one that lays heavy on our hearts. That He will provide exactly what we need in His timing.

Bring Her Home...

2011-09-03T15:02:00.000-07:00

This is the mental institution…the place Shannon calls “home”…

There doesn’t seem to be much hope, does there?

Imagine if your child was here…you would do anything to break her free, wouldn’t you?

I cherish these little glimpses into the life of our sweet girl. Bits and pieces of a distant land…so foreign from our own…

But, her face, so familiar to me…

"Bring her home" we fervently whisper to God...

We plead with God to make this happen “bring her home”. It seems daunting…sometimes impossible…

Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

And we are reminded, nothing is impossible with God…

Please help us “bring her home"...

Orphan Bracelets

2011-09-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

Our children worked hard and produced these awesome, colorful orphan bracelets! They are very excited to help bring Shannon home. Each bracelet was made using only “orphan beads” the leftovers collected from a variety of people who make jewelry. Orphan beads, the discarded ones…often dubbed “useless”. Let these bracelets serve as a reminder of the 147 million orphans

who have been discarded, set aside, forgotten.

For every $10 donation(either by Chip In or FSP, which is tax deductible) you will receive a bracelet. Please email your address to shannonshpak@gmail.com

Please help support 4 children whose dedication and passion to bring their sister home has been effortless. These kids have big dreams and even bigger hearts.

***All bracelets are made using leftover glass orphan beads***

Bring Them Home

2011-08-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

"To believe in the things you can see and touch is no belief at all;

But to believe in the unseen is a triumph and a blessing"

These precious faces weigh heavy on my heart today.

Dylan

"LORD, you know the hopes of the helpless. Surely you will hear their cries and comfort them" Psalm 10:17

Drew

"He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength" Isaiah 40:29

Evan

"But the needy will not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the afflicted ever perish" Psalms 9:18

Sasha

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer"
Romans 12:12

Kyle

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" Hebrews 11:1

Do you see it? Behind these eyes of despair, that glimmer of hope?

I am not afraid to believe that God has something bigger, something better in mind for these precious little guys.

Pray...have faith...believe...that what is unseen is beyond our comprehension...

One For Many...UPDATE

2011-08-26T11:42:00.000-07:00

Updated-One For Many

New items donated at the bottom of this post.

Spread the word and help bring home Andriy, Shannon, Olga, Mateo and Elisha!

Jenn Abell

Gena Moore

Shannon Shpak

Sarah White
Rachelle Evensen

$5= 1 chance
$10= 3 chances
$25= 10 chances
$50= 30 chances

AND NOW FOR THE GOODIES!!

NOOK Color by Barnes and Noble

Nintendo Black Wii Console w/ Mario Kart

Apple iPod touch 8GB With

Ematic 11-in-1 Accessory Kit for iPod Touch (4th Generation):

Garmin nuvi 1100LM 3.5" GPS

w/ Lifetime Map Updates

Bonaia's Shop

Winner receives one Owl Onesie

This item is made to order, each onesie is hand printed,
you choose size. My very first Esty donation :o)
If only I wore this size.

Jajansi's shop

Winner receives choice of two bibs

And choice of one Pop Bead Child's Purse
Those bibs are some of the cutest bibs I have seen in a long time
and I have never seen a child's purse like that before.

CiteFuzz

Winner receives one Mini Monkey Hat.
Sarah Jessica Parker and Mathew Broderick's Twin girls Marion and Tabitha, were spotted in NYC wearing our popular CiteFuzz Cotton Mini Monkey ear flap hats.
You know you want to see your little one in this because you can't go to E. Europe and
not have a hat on your child.

Laksaware's shop

Winner will receive one Dish Towel and One square Sponge
I bought one of her round scrubbies for David last Christmas and it is still going strong.
The kids love to wash dishes with it!! (win random colors)

RedeAndRite's

Winner receives one Wreath Of Pearls Necklace
This necklace reminds me of the pearl necklace my mother and
father gave me to wear for my wedding. Beautiful.

Bentleysbands

Winner receives a $25 Store Credit
What a sweet heart she is! I asked for one item, she gives me two.
She shares about Andriy all the time on Facebook and we just "met".
See making friends while helping Andriy.

Bentleysbands

Winner receives a $25 Store Credit
(Yes she donated TWO $25 credits, her husbands idea)

Fridascloset1

Winner receives one Minnie Mouse Pillowcase Dress.
Available sizes: 3-6m, 9-12m, 18-24m, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T, 6T

Please allow 7-10 days processing time before shipping.
You know who I picture wearing this dress.....Paisley!

Owlsay's shop
Winner receives a $40 Gift Certificate
To be used within 3 months after auction ends.
This sweet lady has never donated to a giveaway but she felt
lead to donate to this one. Please show her she did the right thing.

Littlesnuggliebug's

Winner receives one "Little Round Up" Snugglie
This is not only a blanket/lovie it is also a pacifier holder. If you know my kids this
would have been so handy when they were younger.

Littlesnuggliebug's

Winner receives a "Brown & Pink" Sugglie
Yep another sweety that donated not one but TWO items! I am so amazed!!

LoveLeeSoaps' shop

Winner receives a $10 store credit
Every time I look into this store I gain a pound. JK
Just image what they would smell like ;o)

(these look good enough to eat but they are soaps)

Morganprather
Winner chooses any one piece of jewelry from this store.
Now I have totally fell in love with this store. She has such great
pieces of unique jewelry at great prices.

Morganprather
Winner chooses any one piece of jewelry from store.
It is like getting something you love twice, Yes she donated two items :o)

Please check out all the "leaf" necklaces, don't they remind you of my leaf fundraiser?!

GrowingUpVintage's shop

Winner receives a $30 Store Credit.

How great would it be to be able to keep your child's growth chart and

pass it down to their children. These charts are so pretty you will want to do just that.

Little Loulees
Holiday hairbow collection (including birthday cupcake)

How cute will these be in the hair of your princess. One for each month. Non-slip design

Charolette Mae Boutique

The sweet lady who runs Little Loulees also runs Charolette Mae Boutique, she wanted to help and donated this adorable headband.

Imagine this on your sweet bundle. Hand cute & sewn wool felt flower infant headband.

Project 3 Designs

One winner will win both the

Be the change you want to see in the world Vinyl wall art

(Measures 22 X 10)

and the

Faith shines brightest in the dark vinyal wall art.

(Measures 12.5 X 22)

Keziah Designs "Gotcha Day Blessings Book"

A beautifully written 16 page book. Also, includes an area to personalize with child's name and their "Gotcha Day". Also two pages to record special memories and waiting for that special child.

VERA BRADLEY BAG
Your choice of bag. $60 credit towards your choice.

THE LEAKEY COLLECTION
One necklace chosen by random.

The Heart of a Survivor

2011-08-25T18:31:00.000-07:00

So many orphans already have the heart of a survivor…

But, this little one, Lilianna, is a survivor. She was hospitalized and not expected to live. She had a committed family, but they were not permitted to adopt her, due to her condition.

Beautiful, precious girl. Child of God. Worthy of so much…deserving of love.

She needs a chance. A chance to be part of a family. To feel safe…to feel loved.

This sweet little one has a congenital heart defect and is missing her left forearm.

But she is perfect.

Wonderfully made in His eyes…

Will you follow His call…and bring this angel home?

We Are The Body...

2011-08-21T16:38:00.000-07:00

This week we have been blessed to have our caseworker complete and approve our homestudy and to view a video of our sweet Shannon taken in spring. We were amazed at her loving personality. She is full of smiles and kisses.

We are working extra hard to submit our I-800 and move forward. We are desperate to bring our Shannon home.

We are very short on funds. I know you’ve heard it before “every little bit helps”….it’s so true. Each and every dollar brings us closer. We are so very thankful for each person who has prayed and donated. You are never forgotten...you are lifted up daily...

We have been trying to be faithful in our journey. It’s now time to step it up…please pray. Please consider donating. Please spread the word.

After spending some time in prayer this afternoon, I heard the words to a favorite song of mine:

“But if we are the Body
Why aren't His arms reaching
Why aren't His hands healing
Why aren't His words teaching
And if we are the Body
Why aren't His feet going
Why is His love not showing them there is a way
There is a way”

There is a way…there is always a way…He has called us…we have answered….but we need help…we need to pull together as the Body and bring Shannon home. And we simply cannot do it alone…

The Lost Faces of #11

2011-08-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

This week our eyes have been opened because of one little girl, Katerina.

Because of her, we were made aware of the desperation of the Lost Children of #11.

Liliana is 11 years old. ELEVEN. She weighs 10 pounds. Her arm is 3 inches around. Can your mind even comprehend this?

This orphanage is filled with the weakest, most neglected children imaginable.

It hits especially close to home for us because all of these children are in Shannon’s country.

If ever there was a rescue mission, this is it. Children who may not make it to see their next birthday. It will take special famillies

to entrust themselves into God’s hands…faithfully.

Tony

Kami

Steven

Keith

It can be done. God brought these Lost Children before our eyes. When they could have been hidden away…a secret to the outside…He stepped in and made their presence known. He has placed them before us…and now it lies in our hands. Do what you can. We can ALL do something. Whether it be pray, donate, or adopt. Not one of us in unable to do something. Let it weigh on your mind. Let it burden your heart.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galations 6:2

And there are more…there are SO many more. Some are unable to be adopted, most in are in horrible condition. All deserve to be loved…

“Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Luke 12:33, 34

We are called. We were made to do this.

“…Freely you have received; freely give.” Matthew 10:8

We were given the greatest gift of all…for free. Certainly, each one of us can afford to give back. Do it quietly. Do it wholeheartedly. Give without guilt…without complaint. HE will know what you do...

One For Many...

2011-08-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

My awesome friend, Amanda, bringing Andriy home, has launched a HUGE giveaway! She has blessed additional families with the opportunity to be a part of this amazing fundraiser and we are excited to join in! We are teaming together to do one MAJOR Reece's Rainbow One for Many event!

The way this works is you make your donation via CHIP IN on the left hand side. All donations for the giveaway MUST be done through Chip In, as half the proceeds will also go towards bringing Andriy home. Tax free donations can still be made via our Reece’s Rainbow directly for Shannon, but will not reflect the giveaway. Giveaway ends August 31, 2011.

This fundraiser will help bring home Andriy, Olga, Mateo, Shannon, and Elisha!!

Jenn Abell

Gena Moore

Shannon Shpak

Sarah White

$5= 1 chance
$10= 3 chances
$25= 10 chances
$50= 30 chances

AND NOW FOR THE GOODIES!!

NOOK Color by Barnes and Noble

Nintendo Black Wii Console w/ Mario Kart

Apple iPod touch 8GB With

Ematic 11-in-1 Accessory Kit for iPod Touch (4th Generation):

Garmin nuvi 1100LM 3.5" GPS

w/ Lifetime Map Updates

Bonaia's Shop

Winner receives one Owl Onesie

This item is made to order, each onesie is hand printed,
you choose size. My very first Esty donation :o)
If only I wore this size.

Jajansi's shop

Winner receives choice of two bibs

And choice of one Pop Bead Child's Purse
Those bibs are some of the cutest bibs I have seen in a long time
and I have never seen a child's purse like that before.

CiteFuzz

Laksaware's shop

RedeAndRite's

Winner receives one Wreath Of Pearls Necklace
This necklace reminds me of the pearl necklace my mother and
father gave me to wear for my wedding. Beautiful.

Bentleysbands

Winner receives a $25 Store Credit
(Yes she donated TWO $25 credits, her husbands idea)

Fridascloset1

Winner receives one Minnie Mouse Pillowcase Dress.
Available sizes: 3-6m, 9-12m, 18-24m, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T, 6T

Please allow 7-10 days processing time before shipping.
You know who I picture wearing this dress.....Paisley!

Littlesnuggliebug's

Winner receives one "Little Round Up" Snugglie
This is not only a blanket/lovie it is also a pacifier holder. If you know my kids this
would have been so handy when they were younger.

Littlesnuggliebug's

Winner receives a "Brown & Pink" Sugglie
Yep another sweety that donated not one but TWO items! I am so amazed!!

LoveLeeSoaps' shop

Winner receives a $10 store credit
Every time I look into this store I gain a pound. JK
Just image what they would smell like ;o)

(these look good enough to eat but they are soaps)

Morganprather
Winner chooses any one piece of jewelry from this store.
Now I have totally fell in love with this store. She has such great
pieces of unique jewelry at great prices.

Morganprather
Winner chooses any one piece of jewelry from store.
It is like getting something you love twice, Yes she donated two items :o)

Please check out all the "leaf" necklaces, don't they remind you of my leaf fundraiser?!

GrowingUpVintage's shop

Winner receives a $30 Store Credit.

How great would it be to be able to keep your child's growth chart and

pass it down to their children. These charts are so pretty you will want to do just that.

Little Loulees
Holiday hairbow collection (including birthday cupcake)

How cute will these be in the hair of your princess. One for each month. Non-slip design

Charolette Mae Boutique

The sweet lady who runs Little Loulees also runs Charolette Mae Boutique, she wanted to help and donated this adorable headband.

Imagine this on your sweet bundle. Hand cute & sewn wool felt flower infant headband.

Project 3 Designs

One winner will win both the

Be the change you want to see in the world Vinyl wall art

(Measures 22 X 10)

and the

Faith shines brightest in the dark vinyal wall art.

(Measures 12.5 X 22)

Keziah Designs "Gotcha Day Blessings Book"

A beautifully written 16 page book. Also, includes an area to personalize with child's name and their "Gotcha Day". Also two pages to record special memories and waiting for that special child.

VERA BRADLEY BAG
Your choice of bag. $60 credit towards your choice.

THE LEAKEY COLLECTION
One necklace chosen by random.

Winner Is...

2011-08-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our winner Anna Theurer. Please email me your address info at shannonshpak@gmail.com and I’ll send you out your Down Syndrome Awareness necklace right away! Thank you!

Winner Will Be Announced...

2011-08-15T11:12:00.001-07:00

Fundraiser ends today! Will announce the winner after tonight’s drawing…thank you to all who participated!

Happy Birthday, Shannon!

2011-08-13T07:34:00.000-07:00

Today, in Eastern Europe is a little girl, seemingly forgotten...on this, the miraculous day of her birth.

Yet, many miles away, in the United States, she is being celebrated. She is 5 years old today. Today, she is not only remembered, but missed…Today, a part of our family is incomplete without her.

It is our prayer, that next year, her birthday will be marked by the parents, brothers and sister who so desperately awaited her homecoming. Next year, we pray that she will know the simple things…balloons, birthday wishes, the new words “Happy Birthday”.

May the next year bring you one step closer to our arms, beautiful girl. You are so loved…Happy Birthday, little princess...

Please pray for Shannon today…

100 ~Birthday~ Wishes for Shannon Fundraiser!

2011-08-10T16:32:00.000-07:00

In 3 days, Shannon will turn 5 years old.

We pray that this is her last birthday celebrated without her family. In celebration of her birthday, please help us in sending her a Wish.

http://www.onehundredgoodwishes.com/family/Shpakfamily

Let these Birthday Wishes be prayers for Shannon as she awaits her time to come home...

Plea for Tanner...

2011-08-10T16:26:00.000-07:00

This little guy caught my eye today.

Tanner

Reece's Rainbow only has his file for 2 months...I pray you might be searching for a little guy just like him.

He just celebrated his 10th birthday. Won't someone bring him home before he turns 11?

Please, consider being Tanner's Mommy or Daddy....

Only 3 Days Left...

2011-08-09T21:23:00.001-07:00

“Do you want to do something beautiful for God?
There is a person who needs you.” Mother Teresa

Shannon needs our help! You can be part of the team that brings her home…

Only 3 days left for our DOTS Fundraiser! We are so excited to share this beautiful new picture and reveal Shannon’s chosen name!

https://www.aifundraising.com/app/donate.php?code=PSA1553

Dots are only $5 and $10…but we need to get moving! Let’s make them disappear.

Every dot removed also directly helps to bring Shannon one step closer to home!

Perspective...

2011-08-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

This is who is on my mind today…

We have been working diligently behind the scenes…our homestudy will be completed in the next week or two and our I-800 will be mailed out. Everything is moving forward.

But, we are desperate for prayer. For our precious girl while we are apart, for our endurance on this journey, for the financial obligations to be met. It’s been a rough couple months. We feel God’s call and we are following. It is not an easy road, but nonetheless, it is the one HE has called us on…diligently, we

follow.

"But be very careful to keep the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you: to love the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him, to keep his commands, to hold fast to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul." Joshua 22:5

The Faces of Region 8... Forget-Me-Not-Friday

2011-08-05T07:54:00.000-07:00

They are not forgotten…

Their faces are burned in my memory…

Their prayers, burdens on my heart…

Alone…they wait…

Which ones will be the chosen ones?

They are all so worthy…

If we pray…they will not be forgotten…

It is time…

It is their time…

Pray like you’ve never prayed before…

That they, the Children of Region 8, will never again be forgotten…

http://reecesrainbow.org/category/waitingbycountry/russia/russia-region-8

T-Shirts Have Arrived!

2011-08-04T19:04:00.000-07:00

Our t-shirts have gone live! Please consider buying one in support

of Shannon.

A portion of the proceeds will go directly to her fund and help bring her home…

http://hopetohome.com/shpak.html

Feel free to share the link and get the word out!

This Is Why We Do It...

2011-08-03T08:33:00.000-07:00

One little girl…is waiting...this one…chosen for us. All the paperwork, the fundraising, the leaps of faith…all worth it…for this one.

Beautiful girl..we are coming…

We still have 2 AWESOME fundraisers going on! Our DOTS fundraiser: https://www.aifundraising.com/app/donate.php?code=PSA1553, which will reveal Shannon’s NEW name and NEW picture taken just last month.

And our Life is Precious Giveaway: http://faithsetfree.blogspot.com/2011/07/new-giveaway.html where you can win a chance to receive the official IDSC for Life Necklace and support Down Syndrome!

You might think $5 is not worth donating…but let me tell you…IT IS! If one donates $5 and another donates $5 and another…well, you see? It adds up. All it takes is $5.

We have a HUGE adoption garage sale and bake sale coming this weekend and we will soon be launching our brand NEW t-shirts! Look for more giveaways in the next month as well!

And please, help be part of the team, that brings Shannon HOME!

New Giveaway!!!

2011-07-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

We are offering a chance to win this fabulous All Life Is Precious - International Down Syndrome Coalition for Life Handstamped Necklace. We are blessed to receive this necklace for our fundraiser on behalf of Ollie Faith Designs.

This is the official necklace of the IDSC for Life - http://www.idscforlife.org/

18" sterling silver chain
Sterling silver washer & small charm stamped t21 Blue & Yellow swarovski crystals for Down Syndrome.

For every $5 donation on our Chip In, your name will be entered once. For every $10, your name will be entered three times. Your donation will give you a chance at this beautiful necklace and help bring Shannon home! Drawing will take place on August 15!

3 Boys, 3 Girls...Please Do Not Let Them Be Forgotten

2011-07-22T07:35:00.000-07:00

Today, I find it pressing to advocate for the forgotten ones. The ones who just might not stand a chance. And I beg you, please consider one of these. You may be their only hope.

Sasha

Dmitry

Josiah

I would take them all if there was a way...look at Sasha, he is so fragile, how can you say 'no'?

The sadness in Dmitry's eyes breaks my heart. This little guy needs a chance...

Josiah, remind me so much of my own son, he holds such a special place in my heart.

Millie

Heidi

Dasha

Millie, had we not been matched, I would snatch her up. Another one...so close...

Look at the sparkle in Heidi's eyes...beautiful girl...waiting girl.

Dasha deserves to smile. This precious one deserves more...

It's hard to choose. To focus on 6, when really there are hundreds...all waiting...all deserving.

http://reecesrainbow.org/

Let your heart lead you...and you will find a way...