tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79426789913382369772024-02-20T09:57:29.537-08:00The House'sLindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-13443559299471915782013-10-20T21:09:00.000-07:002013-10-20T21:09:24.094-07:00You big bullyI have had this on my mind for months now and after my 13 year old daughter showed me a post on FB yesterday I decided it was time to put my thoughts out there.<br />
<br />
There is a lot of talk about bulling going around. Tragic stories of kids and teens getting bullied in school and ending with the victims taking their own lives.<br />
<br />
We as adults are disgusted. We are heartbroken. We are angry.<br />
<br />
How can people be so cruel?! How can one person look at another and make such hurtful comments?!<br />
<br />
I will not at all be giving excuses for these bulling teens.<br />
<br />
I do however what to say that I have also seen many adults doing the same thing. Grown adults. Mothers. Fathers. Yes, doing the same.<br />
<br />
The post my daughter brought to me, and was appalled herself by, was a status on FB from a women, a mother. It was a picture that her husband had taken of a lady having lunch with her elementary child at school. The picture showed her pants coming down in the back revealing her undergarments. <br />
<br />
My daughter pointed out the comments that followed. So many adults laughing at the picture. Giving virtual high 5's, patting them on the back for capturing such a moment. One person describing a person dressed badly that she wished she had taken a picture of.<br />
One comment even said something like, how did she not know her *** was sticking out, that's<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]"> an insecure person that needs attention.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">Really people?!! Really?!?! </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">There have been times that I have very embarrassingly reached behind me to find that my pants were low. I had no idea! One would think you could feel a breeze or something but nope. </span></span></span><br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">And to have someone accuse one of having insecure issues. Wow. </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">I have seen adults online take pictures and post them all over FB making fun of how big someone is, how they eat, what they are wearing, even a ladies un-manicured toes in the bathroom stall beside them. Yeah, ok. So you are sitting on the pot taking pictures of the person next to you. No comment. </span></span></span><br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]"><br /></span></span></span>
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">On any given day, if you took pictures of me in public you would definitely get a good laugh. In that split second that you have a window in my life you could definitely have FB worthy photo's for the world to laugh at. </span></span></span><br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]"><br /></span></span></span>
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">And that is one reason I would never do that to you. </span></span></span><br />
<br />
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets." - Matthew 7:12
<br />
<div class="vote-buttons invisible">
</div>
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">Oh it's all just fun and games. A good laugh. </span></span></span><br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]"><br /></span></span></span>
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">Really? </span></span></span><br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]"><br /></span></span></span>
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">Is that what our teens are thinking? </span></span></span><br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]"><br /></span></span></span>
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">No harm done. </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">"</span></span></span>Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are
out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving" - Ephesians 5:4
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]"><br /></span></span></span>
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">When I see adults post making fun of someone I think, what if that was a kid posting about one of <i>their</i> children? Would you now find that so funny? </span></span></span><br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]"><br /></span></span></span>
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]">Come on guys. We need to be an example to this generation. They are watching us. <br />Like I said, I am not making excuses for teen bullying, but they have to get it from somewhere. and they do see us. They hear us. Let's show this generation how to respect others. Look for the good. </span></span></span><br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[1nxo4].[1][4][1]{comment10202255685338158_4028859}.[0].{right}.[0].{left}.[0].[0].[0][3].[0].[0]"><br /></span></span></span>
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good
for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those
who hear" -Ephesians 4:29<br />
<br />
"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a
tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling
for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called,
that you may obtain a blessing." - 1 Peter 3:8-9<br />
<br />
If you need a good laugh stick to watching things like this<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/geAY8__60LQ" width="560"></iframe> <br />
And next time you're out in public and you see a lady in need of a pedicure, why not be thankful that you can actually afford one. Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-69273437437528812282013-05-29T19:13:00.000-07:002013-05-29T19:14:02.481-07:00But GOD<span style="font-size: large;">Our amazing, stubborn, sweet, strong, Gabe. WALKING down the aisle for his Kindergarten Graduation. </span><br />
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/user/lindyhouse/media/Blog/20130529-000_1903.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20130529-000_1903.jpg" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20130529-000_1903.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As stated on the paperwork giving Gabe up for adoption, "We the parents acting on our free will, being in sound mind and clear memory, give up on our parental rights towards him </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>because of bad material condition</i>". </span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/user/lindyhouse/media/Blog/Gabe3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Gabe3.jpg" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/Gabe3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">BUT GOD</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/user/lindyhouse/media/Blog/20130529-000_1902.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20130529-000_1902.jpg" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20130529-000_1902.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/user/lindyhouse/media/Blog/20130529-000_1913.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20130529-000_1913.jpg" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20130529-000_1913.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/user/lindyhouse/media/Blog/20130529-000_1915.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20130529-000_1915.jpg" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20130529-000_1915.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/user/lindyhouse/media/Blog/20130529-000_1920.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20130529-000_1920.jpg" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20130529-000_1920.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/user/lindyhouse/media/Blog/20130529-000_1937.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20130529-000_1937.jpg" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20130529-000_1937.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/user/lindyhouse/media/Blog/20130529-000_1939.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20130529-000_1939.jpg" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20130529-000_1939.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/user/lindyhouse/media/Blog/20130529-000_1880.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20130529-000_1880.jpg" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20130529-000_1880.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. To give you HOPE and a FUTURE" </span>Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-45766410405764474982012-12-08T10:41:00.000-08:002012-12-08T10:47:22.369-08:00Kole. Ours FOREVERWe have been home 10 weeks now since going to Ukraine to adopt our newest little man.
Can I just tell you how absolutely amazing my Kole is. Man I love this boy. There are moments that I sit and wonder how I got to be so blessed to be his mom. I think about him growing up and picture all the laughs and smiles he will bring and then remember that he is MY SON.<br />
<br />
Here are some recent facts about our boy:<br />
<br />
Kole is 5 years old and has down syndrome.<br />
<br />
He is super smart.
Dresses himself, eats by himself.
He loves to pretend cook and clean.<br />
<br />
He is non-verbal but loves to imitate so I am sure he will be talking in no time. He has actually already said the word "hot" and will touch a coffee cup or bowl and say hoooooootttttt.<br />
<br />
He has a few signs, his favorite one being "help" which he does in slow motion and very exaggerated.<br />
<br />
He is not potty trained but will go if I put him on the toilet. We will be working on time training soon.<br />
<br />
He is busy busy busy all day.
He always has something in his hands and usually a hat on his head.<br />
<br />
He loves clothes. If you leave anything laying around he <i>will</i> put it on.<br />
<br />
He is VERY sensitive and will cry loudly at the smallest fall or when being told no.<br />
<br />
He is very bossy;) He "tells" all his siblings what to do and not do all day by pointing his little finger at them and shaking his head.<br />
<br />
He is shy with new people but once he gets to know you he loves you.<br />
<br />
He will pass me during the day and hug my leg, and will randomly plant kisses on my cheek all.day.long. I melt every time.<br />
<br />
He is a great sleeper. Although he wakes up most mornings and starts playing in his kitchen and recently has been undoing Levi's lock on his bed tent and letting him out! Silly boys.<br />
<br />
Life around here is busy. Having 3 boys in diapers, non-verbal, and needing help in many areas is like having triplets most of the time.
Guy is starting full time college in January while still working full time. This will mean that my main helper and support will be gone for the next 2 years. Yes, I am having anxiety already!
My plan has been to get as organized as possible with school and all our daily activities so hopefully I can be a somewhat sane mother;)<br />
<br />
I am so blessed that God allowed me to be Kole's mommy and look forward to days full of kisses, laughs, and new adventures.<br />
<br />
<br />
A little late, but I have finally made Kole's Coming Home video which also has photo's from his last 10 weeks being home. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="720" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/bdVODShDFUU" width="960"></iframe> Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-87653819881460928382012-09-23T15:31:00.002-07:002012-09-24T01:25:04.980-07:00You're my Baby, you're my Sunshine<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We
are still here in Ukraine. Our adoption of Kole is almost complete and
we are totally IN LOVE. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"></span></span></span><br />
<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">Thank you SO MUCH to all of you that helped make
this happen!!!! </span></span></span></h5>
<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">Words could never express how grateful I am. </span></span></span></h5>
<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></h5>
<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">I've dreamed of this for a year. </span></span></span></h5>
<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"><br /> I love that when you give your heart completely to God, He will give you what you desire. </span></span></span></h5>
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"This Love" by Mandi MapesLindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-65253852320066708482012-09-19T09:21:00.000-07:002012-09-19T22:34:34.684-07:00Introducing the latest little "House" memberI've always enjoyed naming my children. I like different kind of names, and one's that have a special meaning<br />
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Genesis Lin = "Beginning" She is our first and the Beautiful Beginning to our family. Lin was after me<br />
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Jude Steven = "Praise, Thanks". Steven means "Crowned" and is named after my Dad and my older brother <br />
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Zane Adrien = "God is Gracious". Adrien is his Daddy's middle name<br />
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Gabe Artem = "God is my Strength" Artem was his given first name <br />
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Levi Vitalik = "Joined in Harmony" Vitalik was his given birth name<br />
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And our newest little one we have named....<br />
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Well first I have to tell you how we came to name him!<br />
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All my kids have a story behind their names, so of course I have to share his. <br />
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You know we have been calling him Kole and that is because after hearing the nannies all call him Kolya last year, which sounds close to Kole, we decided that he recognizes his name and we should keep it close to what he is used to <br />
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We will be keeping his given name on his birth certificate which is Mykola, pronounced = mi-cola<br />
But we will call him Kole <br />
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And for his middle name we decided to name him after my two younger brothers,<br />
Luke and Adam<br />
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<b>My brother Luke</b><br />
<b><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_2012.jpg" /></b><br />
<b> My sisters, Tanya & Kara, Luke and Me</b><br />
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I'm sure he is sick of hearing me tell this, but when he was a baby he would call me, Mommy Ninnie. He couldn't pronounce Lindy, thus the Ninnie<br />
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I was a second mommy to him. Dressed him, fed him, and changed his diapers<br />
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Nice thought huh Luke?<br />
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The comedian of the family. From a very young age he had the ability to
make anyone laugh. He is the only sibling out of 6 that could get out of
a spanking by waving his bottom back and forth and saying, "Hit the
moving target" <br />
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Witty, hard working, generous, selfless, compassionate, comforter<br />
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That's my brother Luke<br />
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I cannot wait to see what God has in store for him cause I know with God, Luke is gonna do some amazing things! <br />
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Watch out world<br />
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There is no stopping the moving target<br />
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<b>Then there is the baby of the family, Adam</b><br />
<b> <img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111008-000_1221copy.jpg" /></b><br />
<b>Amber and Adam's Engagement Photo. Their wedding is next month! </b><br />
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There are 15 years between the two of us<br />
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I practiced my mothering skills on him too when he was little<br />
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Dressed him, fed him, and yes, you know the rest<br />
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I learned early on that he was a carbon copy of my older brother, which is crazy since he was only 1 year old when my older brother moved away<br />
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I also learned quickly that when you are on the road and he asks you how much longer, do not say a couple minutes. Because after 2 minutes he will tell you that it has been exactly 120 seconds and we aren't there yet like I said we would be. Adam at the age of 5 could add and multiply better than any adult in the room<br />
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My Jude man is a mini Adam. His humor, gentleness. And my Zane has Adam's obsession with numbers <br />
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Adam has a passion for learning but most importantly, a passion for God<br />
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Strong, smart, caring, focused, patient, giving<br />
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I am <i>supper blessed</i> to have Luke and Adam as my little brothers<br />
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I <b>love</b> that I can call them friend<br />
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So it is with great pleasure I introduce to you,<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Kole Luka House</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Kole: Victory of the People</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Luke: Light</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Adam: Earth </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Oh yes, this boy is gonna rock this world! </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=20120912-000_1007saying_zps19279234.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120912-000_1007saying_zps19279234.jpg" /></a></b></span><br />
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<br />Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-30180167065065688122012-09-13T14:41:00.000-07:002012-09-13T14:41:25.943-07:00Leaving the flock for our little lost sheepYou know that parable where the Shepherd leaves his flock to find the one lost sheep.<br />
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<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/sheep.jpg" /><br />
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Growing up I would hear that story and wonder if the Shepherd cared for that lost one <i>more</i> than all his others.<br />
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Was it easy for him to up and leave the rest behind.<br />
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As I sit here hundreds of miles away from my 5 <strike>sheep</strike> children I wonder about that journey the Shepherd made.<br />
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<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111002-000_0888.jpg" /><br />
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This journey to Kole has been a long one.<br />
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It's cost so much financially, emotionally, physically.<br />
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Leaving my children behind for many weeks was one of the hardest things I had to do.<br />
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I love my children. Adore them.<br />
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Not a day on this journey goes by that I don't think about my kids.<br />
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How much I miss them and would love to be back with them right now.<br />
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But Kole needs us.<br />
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<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120830-000_0364.jpg" /><br />
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<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120830-000_0376.jpg" /><br />
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He needed us to come searching for him and to bring him back, home, where he belongs.<br />
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Now I know.<br />
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On those days that I feel like my Shepherd isn't near. When it seems that He is spending all His time with someone else that is hurting. Lost.<br />
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I know.<br />
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He <i>is</i> thinking of me. <br />
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He loves me. Adores me.<br />
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Sometimes though there are others that are hurting and need my Shepherd.<br />
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The great news is that in the end, we will all be HOME. Where we belong.<br />
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Spending Eternity with our Shepherd. <br />
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<br />Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-60264171184115508762012-09-04T05:42:00.000-07:002012-09-04T05:42:32.869-07:00Mommy's TearsMy heart broke this morning.<br />
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As I walked into the front office of Kole's orphanage I saw a father sitting on the couch holding a beautiful baby boy. One look at his almond shaped eyes and adorable stubby fingers and I knew right away that the baby had down syndrome. He looked to be about a couple months old. He was cooing and looking at his daddy's face smiling while his daddy stroked his arm. The mother was sitting beside them, tears pouring down her face. <br />
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My facilitator said it was a sad moment because they were leaving their baby at the orphanage.<br />
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Beside the couch were bags full of baby blankets, toys and diapers.<br />
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I wonder if there was a day that that young couple was overjoyed to have a son. I bet they excitedly got a little room all ready for his arrival placing those fuzzy blankets and colorful toys in his crib. <br />
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When did that joy turn to sadness. Did they know right away that their long awaited son had down syndrome. Did they look at their son and think that maybe it would be ok. Maybe they could parent a child like this.<br />
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Just look at him. Look at his sweet face. Listen to his laugh. How can this be a bad thing?<br />
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Maybe he has a heart condition they can in no way afford to have fixed. Maybe a family member is telling them that this kind of child is no good. That children with down syndrome are violent and have no chance of having any kind of future here in Ukraine. <br />
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Whatever the reason, one thing I know for sure. That mommy and daddy WANTED and LOVED their baby boy. It was ripping the mothers heart out to place her baby in a strangers arms to now care for in this institutional setting.<br />
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What can we do to change this mentality? It wasn't long ago that children with down syndrome were institutionalized in America. And even now we put to death 90% of children that are diagnosed with down syndrome while still in the womb. <br />
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I wanted so badly to tell this mom that down syndrome is not the end,
it can be the beginning! These children are wonderful and beautiful. They <i>can</i> have a great future.<br />
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I pray that precious baby boy will know love. I pray that years will not go by living in the orphanage causing him to bang his head just so he can feel. That he will not form the habit of gouging his eyes or rocking strongly back and forth, back and forth. I pray that he will soon have a family that will help him to grow into all that he is meant to be.<br />
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I pray for his birth mother and father, that God will heal their broken hearts. <br />
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<br />Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-63453818137633167922012-08-29T11:26:00.000-07:002012-08-29T11:26:20.435-07:00After 15 months, my Kole is finally back in my armsLast night at 8pm we boarded a train (I was in shock about it the entire time, will blog about that later) and headed to Zap. We arrived at almost 6am. It was pouring rain and cold out. We ran to our car and drove to our apartment (which I was also in shock over and will blog about later) where we unpacked and showered and enjoyed a cup of coffee.<br />
At 9am we left to do some running around getting papers signed, and then finally off to the orphanage. <br />
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Driving in to the orphanage felt very surreal. I looked at the Ukrainian flag that Levi loved to come out to to sit under and watch it blow in the wind. Memories flooded my mind as we walked past the colorful bench that we sat at for hours holding our very frail, crying, terrified little Gabe.<br />
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After meeting the director we met with the orphanage doctor. There she told us all the history they have on Kole. He was born at 36 weeks via C-Section. He was 4 pounds 6.5 ounces at birth and they said they could tell right away he had Ds. <br />
His records say he has an extra "string" in his heart, bowed legs, flat feet, and of course Down Syndrome.<br />
They report Kole to be able to repeat a few syllables, but say he doesn't talk much. He can follow directions, like if you ask him to stack the blocks. He feeds and dresses himself and they said he loves music and loves to dance!<br />
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The social worker and doctor both expressed how thankful they are that he is finally getting adopted as no one has ever inquired about him his entire life. <br /><br />
My facilitator cannot understand why it seemed that in the past Kole had been unavailable for adoption since his records clearly state that his parents signed over their rights and had him placed in an orpahange right after his birth.<br />
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She said to me, <b>"The only explanation is that God saved him for you" </b><br />
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Yes, yes He did.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/videoseries?list=UUPuL20JvsbSKIoqqAnI-fIg&hl=en_US" width="853"></iframe><br />
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Oh how I longed for this day <br />
<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120829-000_0269.jpg" /><br />
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First time meeting Daddy. I think he was a little unsure, maybe because
they don't see men very often, or maybe he's not a Vikings fan;) <br />
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They took him away right at lunch time to meet us. He was very ready to get back to his meal! <br />
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Another lefty like Levi and Papa<br />
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The Nannies LOVED looking at the album I brought of Levi filled with
photo's of him this past year. The Nanny here said she recognized us from
last year. They all looked, laughed, and smiled, remarking that Levi
looked totally different. <br />
<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120829-000_0280.jpg" /><br />
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Right after lunch the kids each take their chair and line it up at the back of the room<br />
<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120829-000_0301.jpg" /><br />
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<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120829-000_0303.jpg" /><br />
Kole seemed to be a stickler for the routine so he was anxious to get his chair in place and get undressed to go potty<br />
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It was time for the kids to all take their naps so we had to leave. We will be allowed to visit Kole everyday from 9am - 11:30 & 4pm - 6:30. <br />
We will visit until we have court which should be in about 2 weeks. After court, we will get Kole out and he will stay with us while we wait for his passports. Once the passport is in (2-5 days), we will take the train back to Kiev where we will finish up paperwork for 2 days, then head home!! I am thinking if all goes well, we will be home by the end of the week of September 17. <br />
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I am in awe that God has allowed me to be this child's mother. This whole adoption so far has been <i>amazing</i>. I can't wait to get back to him tomorrow!!! <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>"And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble
estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will
call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and
holy is his name"</b> - Luke 1:47-49</span>Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-20207334990819208932012-08-27T09:18:00.001-07:002012-08-27T09:18:24.679-07:00We are well on our wayWe had our first appointment today to find out if Kole is available and get his background information. All went very well! He is definitely available for adoption and is still at the baby house.<br />
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We will get the referal tomorrow and then board a train to his region where we will arrive at 5am. We plan to freshen up at our apartment and then head to the orphanage to see our boy!!!<br />
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I think I finally relaxed for the first time in months! I cannot wait to see my little man again.<br />
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Here he is at about a year old. SUCH a cutie! I couldn't help but wish I had known him then so I could cuddle and love on him. <br />
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This was the picture that was listed on the Ukrainian web site<br />
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Real men wear pink<br />
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Total Stud muffin. This was taken last year, probably shortly after we met him<br />
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Our relieved and excited faces after the appointment. (Taken with the only lens I brought, my 35, thus explains the close-up) <br />
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Everyone takes photo's outside of their DAP appointment. Here's our awesome ones<br />
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<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0191.jpg" /><br />
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The streets around us<br />
<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0192.jpg" /><br />
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Souvenir shopping <br />
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Our facilitator took one of us together. Finally you can see more than just our cheeks and noses<br />
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Coming up...Seeing Kole!!! Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-47684594978613142102012-08-26T06:29:00.004-07:002012-08-26T06:59:49.207-07:00Let the adoption journey begin! We are here in Kiev once again! I cannot believe that in a years time we have traveled back to this place, our boys birth place.<br />
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We arrived at our apartment yesterday, settled in, got our internet up and running and enjoyed a dinner of bread, cheese, some kind of meat (maybe salami??), coffee, and chocolate. Oh how I missed the chocolate! My plan was to lose about 10 pounds on this trip, but I quickly realized after my first bite of dark chocolate that that number may be going the other way. <br />
We brought a carry on suitcase filled with diapers for the orphanage that will be returning full of chocolate;) <br />
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I was able to Skype with the kids. I talked with them and was able to watch them as they swam in my sisters pool. It's so cool that I can be so far away and be able to watch them. Technology rocks. <br />
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I still can't believe that God has allowed us to take this journey again. I would never had guessed that we would be adding to our family so quickly. I am beyond grateful that God is allowing ME to be Kole's mommy.<br />
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We will have our first appointment tomorrow at 11am where we will see Kole's baby pictures and find out any info they have on him and get the green light to complete his adoption. Please pray that all will go well. So many families get this far only to find out their child is unavailable or to have papers missing which creates big set backs. <br />
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I didn't get a chance to share before we left since it was a crazy week with getting things ready to leave but Levi and Gabe started school. They are doing great. Levi of course loves riding the bus everyday. They are on this huge yellow bus almost alone, there may be a couple other kids on there. The bus driver is great and they have an assistant riding along just for them.<br />
I really like their teacher. She has worked with special needs for 13 years. It was a very hard decision to put them in school but I know that they will blossom this year. I will be able to school my other 3 while Gabe and Levi are at school and will have lots of bonding time with Kole. Already I can see that school has been positive for Levi. After his first day when he came home I was out running errands. Guy said that he seemed very quiet and finally asked him if he wanted mommy. He started to sign mommy and was flapping his hands and yelling. When I came home he ran to me screaming and held me while he kept laughing and looking again and again at my face. Safe to say that the time away isn't going to hurt our bond at all. They will get daily therapy too which is something I couldn't do on a daily basis as their therapy is such a long drive for me to do more than twice a week.<br />
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Just look at this handsome Kindergartener <br />
<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0058.jpg" /><br />
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Can you spot the happy home schooler and <i>his</i> school clothes?? ;) <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ceOkaB6rFSY" width="640"></iframe><br />
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Along with all that craziness last week, Gabe had eye surgery. The doctor said that while he was under she was able to do a thorough eye exam and she found his eyes to be in great shape. She believes that after he heals his vision should be about perfect. <br />
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If you think about it, keep my 5 children at home in your prayers. It's hard leaving them for so long. One of my boys started having anxiety issues since our last trip. He hates to be anywhere away from me. He is trying to be strong this time but he told me several times before I left that he is sad and tears would fill his eyes.<br />
I know this will all be worth it, and I know my kids get that. Just pray the loneliness will be short for them and that they can heal when we get back.<br />
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<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/FBBorder.jpg" /><br />
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Thank you all so much for your support in this journey of ours. You have played a vital part whether it's your financial support, sharing our story, or prayers. It's because of you that Kole will be rescued soon!!! Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-62950317533866623722012-08-15T08:51:00.005-07:002012-08-15T08:51:47.323-07:00My mommy has lost it What is that?<br />
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<b>My mommy is saying that they got their travel date to go and get my new brother?!?!</b><br />
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And now she is freaking out!<br />
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<b>She thought the date would be 3 weeks from now, not NINE days! </b><br />
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She is running around the house like a crazy person saying she has a thousand things to do.<br />
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<b>I am just excited that I will get to meet my brother soon</b><br />
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<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/0833.jpg" /><br />
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<br />Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-74307811557945490812012-07-03T20:03:00.000-07:002012-08-26T06:33:05.628-07:00And the Winners are....One Month<br />
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Over 600 entries<br />
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THE BEST friends, family, advocates, orphan lovers EVER<br />
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THANK YOU so much to all our wonderful friends and family for your generous
donations and handmade gifts. Without you this wouldn't have happened.<br />
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<b style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK <i>YOU</i>!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</span></b><br />
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Our two families got together to draw all the names. We recorded this fun moment.<br />
Below is the clip showing the first 5 winners, also featuring Kole and Sasha's former roommates;) <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/La72Cwr-J4s" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-51688677649306005392012-06-22T23:53:00.001-07:002012-06-28T20:17:57.085-07:00Beautiful, Beautiful. Gabe's 1 year home<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=GabeLove.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/GabeLove.jpg" /></a>
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6 years<br />
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Totally abandon<br />
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Left to die<br />
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6 years<br />
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In a crib<br />
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No toys<br />
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Staring at white walls<br />
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6 years<br />
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Unwanted<br />
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Undesirable<br />
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Unloved <br />
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Until....<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zCxbCEXuZWw" width="853"></iframe>Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-870883264194255252012-06-13T13:22:00.000-07:002012-06-13T13:22:40.850-07:00Our visit to the InstitutionFirst of all I want to say a big THANK YOU to all of you that have already given to our blog fundraiser. We had a challenge from very generous donor that would donate $1,300 IF we could get our total to $1,800 in 5 days.<br />
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Funny story. When I went to bed at 11pm that last night we were only hundreds away from our goal. You all kept giving and giving and giving.<br />
I woke up the next morning and saw that the total was $1830!<br />
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Then, I went and checked the Paypal which is where all the money is kept in an account for Maria and I.<br />
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THAT total read over $2,400!!!!!<br />
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The ChipIn wasn't keeping up with the actual amount.<br />
<br />
Silly ChipIn<br />
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With other donations given outside of Paypal those 5 days, our total is now $4,000!!!<br />
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That is just $2,000 away from BOTH Maria and I being fully funded!<br />
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WOW<br />
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You all ROCK<br />
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Our Blog Fundraiser with all the amazing give-ways will be running until the end of this month. We will be drawing names for all the winners on July 1st.<br />
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So keep spreading the word and doing what you all are doing.<br />
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2 orphans are very close to coming HOME<br />
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With your help our sweet Kole will never have to know what it's like to be transferred to a mental institution. Typically if a special needs child is not adopted by the age of 5, they will be transferred. Although the orphange is not ideal, the mental institutions are worse. Genesis and I had the blessing of visiting the institution that would be where Kole would be transferred to if we don't get to him in time. I talked to the director and said that I wanted to take photo's and get the children listed. He didn't understand why. He said no one has EVER adopted from his institution. After telling him about Gabe and Levi and their conditions, telling him that we were adopting them and I was sure more families would come for these kids too, his eyes filled with tears.<br />
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Over on Facebook I was posting pictures from each day last year that we took while adopting Gabe and Levi. When I got up to the day that was my visit to the institution I had a hard time posting. I haven't been able to post them for a year.<br />
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After going through them I decided to put them on video and let them speak for themselves.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ELRMv9NCgbY" width="560"></iframe><br />
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I wanted to share a little about some of the photo's that were in the video.
This boy is amazing! He is very mature and well mannered. He has no cognitive delays. He wants so badly to have a family. I can't even imagine having to live in a mental institution when the only thing wrong is that you can't walk. I would LOVE to see him with a family!
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=20110611-246.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20110611-246.jpg" /></a><br />
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This guy cracked me up! There was a group of missionaries handing out food and treats. I sat there and watched as different ones would come and give him something. He would act like he had nothing, and then when the person would turn around he would stuff the food into his shirt! </div>
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He had quite the stash when we left. I said he was the smartest one in the bunch!
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=20110611-1862.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20110611-1862.jpg" /></a></div>
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This is the room where the older men stayed. We were outside that day since the weather was warm, but in the cold winters they will spend all their days here
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=20110611-2132.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20110611-2132.jpg" /></a></div>
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Their outside time would be spent here. It smelled terribly of human feces.<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=20110611-226.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20110611-226.jpg" /></a></div>
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This little boy would chew all day on his flesh. It didn't matter if you were to wrap his arms in bandages, he would just chew past them.
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=20110611-1462.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20110611-1462.jpg" /></a></div>
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This boy stole my heart! Isn't he the cutest?!?! So very sweet and gentle. </div>
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I would love to see him get adopted.
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=20110611-1452.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20110611-1452.jpg" /></a></div>
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This precious girl was 12 years old. She has a tumor that started out small growing on her head, it's why her parents abandon her. Yet her condition could have easily been treated here in the states.
She loved getting attention and would hold your hand tight, all the while she would sing. SING. Here. </div>
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In this place of abandonment she had something to sing about.
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=20110611-0982.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20110611-0982.jpg" /></a></div>
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And here is little Sasha. Shortly after we got home he was listed for adoption. An amazing family ran to get him.<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=20110610-095.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20110610-095.jpg" /></a></div>
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And THIS is Sasha after only FOUR months home!!!! LOVE is an amazing thing. Amazing.
<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/?action=view&current=sasha.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/sasha.jpg" /></a>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The world can no longer be left to mere diplomats, politicians, and business leaders.
They have done the best they could, no doubt.
But this is an age for spiritual heroes - a time for men and women to be heroic in their faith and in spiritual character and power. The greatest danger to the Christian church today is that of pitching its message too low.</b> </span></div>
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-Dallas Willard</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Some of the children in the video are available for adoption. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> Please go to <a href="http://www.reecesrainbow.com/" target="_blank">Reece's Rainbow</a> to find out more.</b> </span></div>
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Many of the quotes were taken from "The Hole in our Gospel" by Richard Stearns
</div>Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-78775991995367504802012-06-03T22:04:00.000-07:002012-07-03T18:53:51.604-07:002 Families. 2 little boys. 2gether we can do this!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I couldn't make this story up if I tried.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Over 5 years ago <a href="http://loveyamorethancookies.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maria Falvo</a> and I met at a homeschool get-together. We talked briefly and saw each other maybe a couple more times that year. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We never kept in touch, Facebook wasn't the big thing yet;) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Two years ago while I was living in TN we found each other online. Maria was in the process of adopting Benji and Tayia. I then moved back to FL and we began the process</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> to adopt Gabe and Levi. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">After committing to my boys we found out that her Taiya and my Gabe were actually</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> in the <i>same</i> crib together. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We also learned that Levi took Benji's place in his group after Benji went home with the Falvo's. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">How crazy is that! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">While in Ukraine Maria and her husband saw a little boy that caught their eye. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He was Benji's best buddy. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=sashaandbenji2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/sashaandbenji2.jpg" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He was sweet and kind, and wanted nothing more than to have a mommy and daddy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Long story short, the Falvo's are returning to adopt Phillip! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We also met an adorable, blue eyed little boy while we were adopting last year. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He was in Levi's group. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=0833.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/0833.jpg" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Kole. We fell in love at first sight. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">By God's amazing grace and goodness, we are going back to rescue our sweet boy! </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Two families.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Adopted 2 children each, from the same orphanage.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=4kids.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/4kids.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Two families</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Neighbors </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>we live only minutes from each other </b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Returning for our sons buddies</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Who will soon be BROTHERS</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">I couldn't make this stuff up! We did.not.plan.this. Only God</span></b></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Our two families are now only awaiting our travel date to adopt Kole and Phillip, which we expect to have <b>within 4 weeks! </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">God has been so amazing in writing every chapter of our stories. He has provided every single step of the way. Many of you have already been a part of that provision, and we are incredibly thankful. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">With only $3,000 dollars each that we have to raise, we are confidant that God will once again provide. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Maria and I together decided to do one last big fundraiser and we are so excited! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Many of you have donated some amazing items!!! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">If you would like to be a part of reuniting 2 little boys and bringing them HOME to be sons and brothers, here is your opportunity:) </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>This whole month of June</b> we will have an online auction. Both of our blogs will have the exact same items and the chip-in will go directly to the same account to be split between both families. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Our hope and prayer is to raise the remaining $6,000 we both need to travel and rescue our boys. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Here is how it will work: </u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*For every $10 donation you will get your name entered once. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*Entries can be made the whole month of June.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>*The last day to enter will be June 30, 2012.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*We will draw names on July 1st and contact you so that you may pick your prize. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1st name gets first choice, 2nd name drawn gets to choose from the remaining, and so on. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We have so many great items for many of you to enjoy! </span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Of course the more entries you make, the higher chance you get to have the gift of your choice. </span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We will keep drawing names until the last gift is claimed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*This just in! Someone has generously offered to give <i>$1,300</i> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>IF we can get 30 people to each get FIVE of their friends in the next 5 days to enter. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>For each of you that gets 5 friends to enter, we will give YOU FIVE entries for yourself!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>The deal gets even sweeter.....</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>All local (Hernando County, FL) people who take the challenge and sign 10 of their friends up will get half a dozen cake pops made by "<a href="http://www.littlebigcakes.com/" target="_blank">Little Big Cakes</a>" </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b> <a href="http://www.littlebigcakes.com/" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=Screenshot2012-06-06at10136PM.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/Screenshot2012-06-06at10136PM.png" /></a></b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>hand delivered to you! </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>How sweet is that! </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=Screenshot2012-06-06at10721PM.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/Screenshot2012-06-06at10721PM.png" /></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>So spread the word on FB, at your office, church, etc. Get 5 or 10 friends each to commit and let us know by leaving a comment with the list of names.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Once we hit 30 taking the challenge, we will automatically receive $1,300!!!!!! </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Challenge starts NOW! </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">(Deadline is Monday, June 11th)</span> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Are you ready for this?!?! Here is the list of all the great prizes you can win!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>iPad 2</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=ipad2blackwifi.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/ipad2blackwifi.jpg" /></a> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Jana Knox $400 Value </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Kindle Fire</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=kindle-fire1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/kindle-fire1.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Donated by Gretchen Thibault $200 Value</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=LrgAdultNavy.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/LrgAdultNavy.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Adult large navy 147 Million T-Shirt</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by <a href="http://www.147millionorphans.com/" target="_blank">www.147millionorphans.com</a></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b> $20 Value</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=pink147million.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="pink147million" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/pink147million.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> Ladies small pink 147 Million T- Shirt</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by <a href="http://www.147millionorphans.com/" target="_blank">www.147millionorphans.com</a></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b> $20 Value</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=147GreenChildSmall.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/147GreenChildSmall.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Child's green 147 Million T-Shirt</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by <a href="http://www.147millionorphans.com/" target="_blank">www.147millionorphans.com</a> </b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b>$20 Value</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=147BurlapBag.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="147BurlapBag" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/147BurlapBag.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>147 Million Burlap Bag </b><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Zippered 11" across pretty pink interior.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by <a href="http://www.147millionorphans.com/" target="_blank">www.147millionorphans.com</a></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b> $30 Value</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=Quilt.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/Quilt.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>~ Raggedy Quilt<br />~ Measures 34" x 39"<br />~ three patterns - lavender
w/ small white polka dots; green w/ white paisley; green background w/
blue, lavender &amp; yellow flowers. <br />~ Back and front layers are made from 100% cotton. Middle layer is soft and cuddly 100% cotton flannel. <br />
~ I've pre-washed it in Dreft detergent to begin the ragging &amp;
softening process. Each time it's washed it will get more cuddly soft. <br />~ This particular quilt would sell for $57.00. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Hand Made and Donated by Debbie Gableman </b></span><br />
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<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=UgandaNecklace.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/UgandaNecklace.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>This necklace is made out of recycled magazines! It was made in Uganda
where the average yearly income is $300 and parents have to pay for
their children to attend school. A single mom made this necklace so that
her children can attend school.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Tisha Al<span style="font-family: inherit;">exa</span>nder value $30</b></span><br />
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<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=LaceyShopperHandbag.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/LaceyShopperHandbag.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Seinna Richie</b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Lacey Shopper large handbag</b><b> $89 Value</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Maria Falvo </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=bracelets1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/bracelets1.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> H</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b>andmade Bracelets</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Sarah at</b></span><b><span style="color: #33ff33;"> </span></b></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #33ff33;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #33ff33;"><a href="http://www.forhisgloryhandiwork.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">www.forhisgloryhandiwork.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.com</a></span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'comic sans ms',sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #33ff33;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #33ff33;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=owlhatsonsells.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="owlhatsonsells" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/owlhatsonsells.jpg" /></a></span></span></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">C</span></span></b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>ustom
owl hat Donated by Sarah</b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The winner of the owl hat can choose the
size and color they would like, and I will make it and get it out to
them. More info on the owl hats here </b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://handiworkforelijah.blogspot.com/2011/11/owl-hats-custom-orders.html" target="_blank">http://handiworkforelijah.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.com/2011/11/owl-hats-<wbr></wbr>custom-orders.html</a></span><br />
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<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=DesignerWallets.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="DesignerWallets" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/DesignerWallets.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> <b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Choice of designer look wallets</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Donated by Gaby </b></span><b><span style="font-size: large;">Broderick</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=CoachBag.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="CoachBag" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/CoachBag.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Coach Change Purse. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Comes with bag and box $78 Value</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Emily Nolan</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=34KnotDress.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="34KnotDress" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/34KnotDress.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Knot Dress $35 Value</b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by </b></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/kandykissesboutique?view_type=gallery" target="_blank">http://www.etsy.com/shop/<wbr></wbr>kandykissesboutique?view_type=<wbr></wbr>gallery</a><br />
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<a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=boyscustomtshirt.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/boyscustomtshirt.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Lori Harris has donated either a custom boys outfit or a custom girls dress. Winner will chose. $35 Value</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <span style="font-size: small;">http://www.etsy.com/listing/99028889/boys-custom-outfit-t-shirt-and-shorts?ref=cat_gallery_6</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=bracelet.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bracelet" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/bracelet.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Hand Made and Donated by Becky Hilfer. Proceeds help the poor in Guatemala.</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="hasCaption">Created using Rosaline Swarovski Pearls, Rose
Swarovski Cubes, Silver Plated Swarovski Rondelles, Silver Plated tube,
Beads, Spacers and clasp.<br /> $24.95</span> Value</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">https://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Connection-of-Hope/285019914857014</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=50GiftCard.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/50GiftCard.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"> $50 Amazon Gift Card </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Donated by Gaby Broderick</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=Doll.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/Doll.jpg" /></a></span></b><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="hP" id=":2eu"> </span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="hP" id=":2eu">Custom cloth doll you choose features $29 Value</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72451857/custom-cloth-doll-you-choose-features?ref=cat_gallery_12" style="color: black;" target="_blank">http://www.etsy.com/listing/<wbr></wbr>72451857/custom-cloth-doll-<wbr></wbr>you-choose-features?ref=cat_<wbr></wbr>gallery_12</a></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Becky Wangerin </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Who is going back for a little girl!</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=BagCoachBag.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/BagCoachBag.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Coach Wrislet </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Comes with bag and coach box $48 Value</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Emily Nolan </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=PamperedChefContainer.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="PamperedChefContainer" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/PamperedChefContainer.jpg" /></a></b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Pampered Chef </b><b>Leak proof glass container 1.5cup</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Maria Falvo </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=Screenshot2012-06-03at24408AM.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/Screenshot2012-06-03at24408AM.png" /></a></b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>$25 Gift Certificate to use online at</b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> http://www.toobusymoms.com/</b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Jennifer Griffith &amp; Tiffany Grumbley</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>(2 available)</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://s94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/?action=view&current=dressjessica.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog%20Fundraiser%20Items%20June%202012/dressjessica.jpg" /></a></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Handmade Dress and Matching Bow $30 Value</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Jessica Chinni </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>iTunes Gift Card $15 Value</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Jessica Chinni</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Set of 10 handmade Cards Assorted</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Donated by Mel </b><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">DeLlanos</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Thirty-One Retro Metro Bag $55 Value</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Donated by Rachel Golden </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Scentsy Warmer &amp; 3 Scents $50 Value</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Donated by Bianca Olivier </b></span><br />
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Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-85185352363357097912012-04-05T22:44:00.000-07:002012-04-05T22:44:29.751-07:00He keeps us laughingCurly blond hair. Amazing blue eyes. Little comedian. Story Teller. Could live on Nana's bread with butter and cinnamon. Little brother. Video gamer. Math lover. Ninja fighter. <br />
<br />
My Zane man. <br />
<br />
You turn 5 today and boy are you excited! <br />
<br />
You are my baby. You don't like when I tell you that. You are a BIG boy you tell me.<br />
You are very excited that your new brother, Kole, is younger than you (by a month) because then I will call <i>him</i> my baby. <br />
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You came into this world as our first home birth. <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/ZANEADRIENSBIRTH169.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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*<i>No, I am not an anti-doctor, hippie, tree huger kind of woman. We had our first two children at a labor center and since it went so well we decided why not just have everyone come to us! No tree hugging was involved in the birth of my child.</i><br />
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It was a great experience for all of us. Your brother and sister got to cut the cord. <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/ZANEADRIENSBIRTH038.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Sissy was the first to get you dressed which was so cool for me because <i>I</i> was the first to dress <i>my</i> little sister when she was born at home. <br />
<i>*Yes, the crazy hippie gene runs in the family;) </i><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/ZANEADRIENSBIRTH152.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Your brother put on your little hat<br />
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You were also our first screamer! You would scream all.the.time. Happy, sad, mad. You screamed. <br />
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One Year Old<br />
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You finally started talking and baby - <i>whoops</i> -I mean, boy do you have a lot to say! <br />
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2 Years Old<br />
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I keep a journal of all the silly things you do and say. The entries are getting more frequent everyday. Here are just a few:<br />
<b><br />
August 2009</b><br />
Zane changed his baby's diaper with a tissue and then rocked him while singing "Hush Little Baby". His baby? <br />
A little green tractor.<br />
<b><br />
June 2010</b><br />
While playing outside in the dirt Zane was aggravated at all the bugs. He came and said to me, I know! The bugs can be my friends! I will say, Hi bugs! and then they can come into the house with me and have chicken nuggets!" <br />
<b><br />
August 2011</b><br />
Zane - Mom! You are really good at that! You would probably be good at Mario because you do those dishes so good.<br />
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October 2011</b><br />
In the waiting room at a Dr. appointment.<br />
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Zane: Mommy, if you go to the car and get me the laptop then I will give you fifty thousand dollars.<br />
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And where are you getting that $50,000???<br />
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DUH, from doing my chores.<br />
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<b>October 2011</b><br />
Yes, that would be my son sitting in church <b>laughing outloud</b> during the singing of the solo, "Beauty for Ashes". He of course finds it hilarious that she is singing, "Booty for Ashes"<br />
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October 2011</b><br />
Zane - "You know why I don't want to die? Because I don't know the directions home when I'm ready to come flying back"<br />
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3 Years Old<br />
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Aunt Kara makes you the best cakes<br />
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Little Big Planet Cake last year<br />
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4 Years Old<br />
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Whenever I turn the camera on you, this is what I get<br />
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You don't hold back. <br />
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It's all Zane for the world to see! <br />
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And this world is blessed to have you in it. <br />
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<b>Happy Birthday baby boy. Oh how I love you!<br />
</b>Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-14965621913783812232012-02-04T15:51:00.000-08:002012-02-04T15:51:36.570-08:00A Dream Coming TrueDream: a cherished hope; ambition; aspiration <br />
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We met Kole 7 months ago on our trip to adopt Gabe and Levi. It was on one of our visits while we were out walking with Levi that Genesis saw a group of children that looked to be from Levi's room. We made our way over to them, not knowing if that was ok or not. <br />
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The workers didn't mind at all so we started to interact with the kids, blowing bubbles, taking pictures and video. <br />
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There was one boy in particular that caught my eye and stole my heart. <br />
<br />
Kole. <br />
<br />
There he sat looking lonely but hopeful. Genesis sat beside him and he instantly reached for her hand, content to sit and hold it tight. He wasn't aggressive at all but very calm and quite. Nothing brought a smile to his face more than when he could just be next to you. <br />
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I remember when a couple of my friends went to this same orphanage and told me how they had seen a sweet boy with down syndrome in their boys group. They said that unfortunately he wasn't able to be adopted because his parents hadn't signed over the papers to release him. <br />
When I saw Kole I instantly knew this must be the boy they talked about and I thought how sad it was that he would never have the opportunity to be loved in a family. <br />
<br />
Genesis and I loved on Kole every chance we could. Guy never did get to meet him as he was caring for Gabe off in the distance. <br />
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Fast forward to us coming home. Without going into details, it was found out that Kole was actually available for adoption. His paperwork had been mixed up with another child's. <br />
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This was wonderful news and now that I know this I should be advocating for him. I just knew that once someone saw his sweet face he would be snatched right up! <br />
But I just couldn't bring myself to do it. I was torn between knowing that finding him a family would be the right thing to do and wanting <i>us</i> to be that family. <br />
<br />
Everyday I dreamed of him. I could picture him fitting in perfectly with our crazy bunch. <br />
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Several weeks ago I was sharing with a good friend how much I would love to adopt Kole, but I knew that it wasn't an option for us. Or so I thought;) <br />
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I started to think if maybe it <i>was</i> possible. Could there actually be a way? <br />
<br />
I talked to Guy seriously about the possibilities. <br />
I then learned that there were inquiries being made about him from other families. <br />
This was it, if he is meant to be ours, now is the time to make it happen. <br />
After consulting with other wise families and friends I knew that we could definitely do this. <br />
<br />
Guy gave me the green light to proceed and we are on our way to beginning the process of making Kole ours! <br />
<br />
This is not something that I sought out. I honestly did not see us returning to UA anytime soon! But man are we EXCITED!!!! <br />
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And for those of you thinking, another BOY?!? Well, again, if it wasn't for the fact that we met Kole and fell in love with this particular child, this wouldn't be happening right now. <br />
No worries though, I'm sure Genesis' dream of having a sister will happen one day as well. <br />
<br />
So what now? Fundraising, paperwork, phone calls, organizing the house, babysitters, etc. I will post about all that and more soon! <br />
<br />
Seriously, don't you just love this sweet face??? <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/041.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket">Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-68537309806518282672012-01-26T17:17:00.000-08:002012-01-27T14:01:36.198-08:00Happy 6th Birthday Levi<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120117-000_3716.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
Levi, this December we celebrated your 6th Birthday!<br />
You have only been home with us for less than 6 months, but in this short time we have many reasons to celebrate you. <br />
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<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/Levi6thcollage.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
As I thought many times about your actual <i>birth</i> day, I wondered if it was ever celebrated? <br />
<br />
I only know a few things about when you first came into this world, like the town you were born in. <br />
I know your birth mother actually brought you to her home.<br />
She named you Vitalik. <br />
I know that their is no record of your birth father. <br />
<br />
I know that at 3 months old she brought you back to the hospital because you were sick <br />
<br />
and then she left you there. <br />
<br />
You were then brought to the orphanage where you spent the next 5 years. <br />
<br />
When I think about your birth mother I can't help but feel that she loved you. <br />
I picture her holding your tiny body in her arms and planting sweet kisses on your bald little head. <br />
<br />
How could she have <i>not</i> fallen absolutely in love with you? <br />
<br />
Why then were you abandon at just three months old?<br />
<br />
What kind of mother would do that to their own child. <br />
<br />
I really don't have the answers. <br />
I could be totally wrong, but what I feel is that when she brought you back to the hospital due to what the records show as maybe a sickness, that is when she found out that you had down syndrome. And in your country there is absolutely no available help for single mothers with a child that has special needs. <br />
<br />
How I wish for your birth mother's sake there was. <br />
<br />
Was your birth celebrated that very day? Was it celebrated every year later at your orphanage? Maybe yes, maybe no. <br />
<br />
<br />
Here is what I do know my little Levi, <br />
<br />
You are LOVED<br />
You are Cherished<br />
You are Celebrated<br />
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Your birth was NOT a mistake. <br />
<br />
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. -Psalm 139:13-16 <br />
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Here are the only photo's we have of you as an infant and toddler. <br />
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This was the first photo we saw of you on the Reece's Rainbow page. Your Daddy thought you were oh so cute. <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/tristanmarch2010.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Photo's given to us after we committed to you. <br />
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<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/tristansuckingfingers-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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<b>So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. -Genesis 1:27</b><br />
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<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120117-000_3782.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20120117-000_3789.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Signing "I Love You"<br />
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We can't wait to celebrate MANY MORE birthday's with you Levi!Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-58150368882176687722012-01-16T20:52:00.000-08:002012-01-16T20:52:53.184-08:00Gabe 7 Months HomeJune 2011 -7 months ago-<br />
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January 2012<br />
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June 2011<br />
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January 2012<br />
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June 2011<br />
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January 2012<br />
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June 2011<br />
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January 2012<br />
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When we first met our Gabe, as you can see <a href="http://lindyhouse.blogspot.com/2011/06/trials-and-smiles.html">HERE</a>, he was frail, scared, could hardly sit up, only ate from a bottle, rejected touch. <br />
<br />
Today, just 7 months later, Gabe is over 10 pounds heavier, crawls, climbs, he's happy, laughing, and desires nothing more than to be held. <br />
<br />
He signs "eat" and is starting to eat pureed food from a spoon. <br />
<br />
Next week he is getting fitted for braces for his legs. <br />
I know he will be walking in no time! <br />
<br />
We have seen many specialist since bringing Gabe home. On his medical records from Ukraine it stated that he had a heart condition that would most likely need surgery. <br />
What we found out is that the hole in his heart has healed up on its own and there is no surgery needed!! <br />
After all the many doctor visits and blood test we basically found out that Gabe is 100% healthy! <br />
<br />
Now of course I am very grateful for that.<br />
<br />
But it does make me angry in some ways. <br />
<br />
Angry because the Gabe that we adopted 7 months ago was that way solely due to neglect. <br />
Yes he does have down syndrome, but that alone would not cause a child to be in the condition he was in.<br />
<br />
Neglect. <br />
<br />
Neglect caused this 6 year old perfect child to weigh only 20 pounds. <br />
Neglect caused him to not have a clue how to hold or play with a toy.<br />
Neglect caused his eyes to be weak because after only having white walls to look at the muscles were not able to strengthen and develop. <br />
Neglect caused his teeth to completely rot away leaving his mouth to bleed every time we brush his teeth. <br />
<br />
In the book, The Connected Child, it states that "isolation is more damaging to an infant than early mistreatment."<br />
<br />
<i>So Gabe would have been better off being physically abused! <br />
</i><br />
It goes on to say, <br />
"An infant who is rarely touched or spoken to during the first weeks and months of life can suffer critical mental and behavioral impairments, even death. <br />
That is why the orphanage system - in which children are left lying in row after row of cribs unattended - has been phased out in the United States in favor of foster homes, which provide a child with social and sensory nurturing he or she desperately needs." <br />
<br />
NO CHILD DESERVES TO BE NEGLECTED<br />
<br />
I've said it before and I will continue to say it. <br />
<br />
We are not <i>called</i> to care for the orphans. We are <b>commanded</b> to care for them. <br />
<br />
Go ahead and look in the Bible for yourself, you'll see. <br />
<br />
Does this mean everyone should adopt a child? No. <br />
<br />
But do something. <br />
<br />
Donate. Pray. Advocate. <br />
<br />
Something<br />
<br />
If you are wondering where to start, you can go to <b><a href="http://reecesrainbow.org/">Reece's Rainbow</a></b> and look at all the beautiful children waiting. Donate to a child of your choice or go to the "<a href="http://reecesrainbow.org/category/sponsorafamily/newcommitments">Sponsor a Family</a>" page and choose a family to help bring home their child. <br />
<br />
IN DREAMS <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_1653-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
AND IN LOVE <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_1656.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
THERE ARE NO IMPOSSIBILITIES<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_1660.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket">Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-66899951716422980572011-11-25T09:33:00.000-08:002011-11-25T09:33:49.002-08:00Thankful for YOUThis year at Thanksgiving I have so many things to be thankful for.<br />
<br />
But the one thing that I think about almost on a daily basis is how thankful I am for all of you that helped to bring my sons home. <br />
<br />
Your Prayers. Support. Encouragement. <br />
<br />
Your Giving of Time to help with fundraising. <br />
<br />
Giving of Money. For many of you I know it was sacrificial giving. Maybe you didn't even have a dollar to spare, yet you gave. <br />
<br />
I do not, and never will, take any of it for granted. <br />
<br />
I want you to know that your $5. Your $100. Your $500. It was a gift that will go on for eternity. <br />
<br />
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.<br />
<br />
Thank you for giving my boys the opportunity to have a HOME. To have a mommy and daddy, a sister and brothers. To feel love. <br />
<br />
This is what YOU made possible<br />
<br />
Gabe then<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/GabeBefore.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
Gabe today<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/gabeafterweb.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
Levi then<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/LeviBefore.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
Levi today<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111002-000_0962.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket">Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-25938361396288818622011-10-22T09:21:00.000-07:002011-10-22T09:21:08.262-07:00Placed by God's hands<b>We witness a miracle every time a child enters into life</b><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111021-000_1456.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>But those who make their journey home </b><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111021-000_1442.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Across time & miles,</b><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111021-000_1425.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Growing within the hearts of those who wait to love them</b><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111021-000_1421.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<b>Are carried on the wings of destiny </b><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111021-000_1433.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<b>And placed among us</b><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111021-000_1426.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<b>By God's very own hands</b><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20111021-000_1428.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket">Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-45817468107857310022011-09-23T22:45:00.000-07:002011-09-23T22:45:23.837-07:00KowboyMy 24 year old brother Luke decided to make a trip into some woods one day in our little city of Brooksville. He had a bag full of burgers and decided to see if anyone living amongst the trees would like some. <br />
<br />
That was the first of many visits and the beginning of a genuine relationship with a man that called himself Kowboy. <br />
<br />
Kowboy passed away this week. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/kowboy.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
My sister Tanya wrote this:<br />
<br />
No one probably even noticed when this happened yesterday in the morning. It happened in the woods. In a tent. Probably alone. Kowboy was a homeless man who lived in the woods in Brooksville. You have probably seen him stumbling down the sidewalk a time or two. Not someone you would look at and give a second thought to, except maybe that he really needs to do something with himself, and then look the other way.<br />
<br />
A few people did get to know him though. Luke, April and Alex got to know him a long time ago and had frequent visits since. They got to know this man who's real name is Claude, but everyone knows as Kowboy (with a K). April even made him a cowboy hat of his own, with his name "Kowboy" stitched on the front.<br />
<br />
Over the past two years Luke and Kowboy became very close. Sharing meals together. Drinks. Stories. Luke listened to the man a lot of people would simply wave off. He learned that Kowboy had a sister, a family, loved ones. He learned that Kowboy served this country many years ago in Vietnam. That he was haunted by memories of things he saw, things he did, regrets.<br />
<br />
Luke also learned that he just met one of the most giving and caring people he would probably ever know. A man who had nothing, but would give you everything. A man who looked out for others that came wondering into his "camp" looking for shelter, an extra tent to sleep in. Kowboy was a man who never once asked for anything for himself, but if someone he knew had a need, he would call Luke up to see if it could be filled. "So and so needs a sleeping bag. Someone just got their tent ripped up, could you get one for them?"<br />
<br />
Kowboy would just randomly stop by Luke's work, just to talk. Or maybe show him a new chord he learned on the guitar that Alex gave him. When he was sober he could actually play pretty well.<br />
<br />
Once he did need a ride back from the jail. He got kicked out of his spot in the woods and then arrested for loitering. This was a common occurrence for him and his friends.<br />
<br />
One time when he was caught at another spot in the woods he called Luke to see if he could bring his truck so they wouldn't have to make so many trips. While moving stuff it looked like it was gonna start storming. Kowboy started to get angry at God for allowing this to happen, so Luke suggested praying that the rain would hold off, at least till they were done. Kowboy almost laughed at this, "why would God even care about us enough to do something like that?" God cares, Luke said, very much. "Sure, go ahead" said Kowboy.<br />
<br />
Luke prayed, and the rain didn't come until they were finished. I think that was the turning point for Kowboy.<br />
<br />
One day, out of the blue he called Luke up. He was going to stay with his sister in Georgia. He wanted to get sober. (Something he had no intention of doing, and had not been in years). He was so proud to tell Luke, and Luke was just as proud to hear it. Like a parent that just found out his kid wants to go to college, this was a huge milestone.<br />
<br />
Time went by. Some of his friends would come by to see Luke, check in, maybe get some supplies.<br />
<br />
Then out of the blue Luke got a phone call. It was Kowboy. He was with his sister in Georgia and he was doing great. Sober. Feeling better than he had in a long time. He just wanted to call and check on Luke to see how he was doing, and to let him know that things were going great. Again, Luke was so proud. In fact he beamed for the rest of the day like a proud dad. More time went by with a few phone calls here and there, just to check in.<br />
<br />
Not long ago he called to tell Luke he was coming back to Florida for a bit. He missed his friends and just thought he would visit for a while. He was still doing good, so Luke wasn't sure if it would be a good idea to come back and be around the same crowd again, but Kowboy won out.<br />
<br />
Visits were few and far between. Time went on. Kowboy still stayed in Florida.<br />
<br />
Then on September 21st, around 10am, Luke got the news. Kowboy was found in his tent, no longer awake on this earth.<br />
<br />
Luke and Alex went by the campsite that evening to bring dinner to his friends and just sit and share stories, memories, tears and laughter. No one wanted to move anything in his tent or touch any of his belongings. They all brought flowers to surround his tent with. They celebrated the life of a man who was once someones baby. Someones brother. Someones friend. A man who usually wouldn't get a second glance beyond the first glance of judgment. But those who knew him, and took the time to sit with him knew what kind of man he was. He was a man of honor. A man of dignity and hope. A man who was selfless. A man of compassion.<br />
<br />
The one comfort that we now have is that we know where he is.<br />
<br />
A place with no more tears, no more hunger, no more pain and no more suffering. There is a place that was set for him at the banquet table that he is sitting at and enjoying every moment. He has probably already joined the angel choir singing praises at the top of his lungs. I can see Jesus beaming at him like Luke used to, like a proud father, happy to see his son again.<br />
<br />
He may not have meant much to that many people, but he meant everything to one person. Jesus.<br />
<br />
_____________________________________________________________________________________<br />
<br />
The thing I love most about what my brother and his friends did was that it was not about "religion". They made a point to build RELATIONSHIP. They knew they didn't need to preach to Kowboy and the rest of the camp, or stand in a circle holding hands to pray. No, they wanted to SHOW Jesus to them by their actions. By coming out into their world. Their dirty, smelly, uncomfortable world. To simply play cards, talk, and share meals together. <br />
It's funny, I remember someone else in the Bible that would do the same (well <i>maybe </i>not cards) and the "Religious" had a real problem with it. <br />
<br />
I'm sharing this with you to encourage you to think twice when you see someone on the side of the road looking for a handout. Don't worry about needing to preach to them. Maybe they just need a smile. <br />
<br />
I know there are a lot of thoughts about what the homeless do with the money you may give them. My take on that? Read the Word. Did Jesus, in the hundreds of times that He talks about helping the poor, did He ever say that you better know that when you give to them it better be going to good use? <br />
<br />
I highly recommend reading the book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Under-Overpass-Journey-Streets-America/dp/1590524020/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1316841392&sr=8-1">"Under the Overpass" by Mike Yankoski<br />
</a><br />
It is about a young man that steps into the life of a homeless man living on the streets for months. It will open your eyes and really help you understand what your role could be in helping the homeless. <br />
<br />
<b>But if someone who is supposed to be a Christian has money enough to live well, and sees a brother in need, and won't help him--how can God's love be within him ? Little children, let us stop just saying we love people; let us really love them, and show it by our actions. - 1 John 3:17&18</b>Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-74920802339770357822011-09-16T21:32:00.000-07:002011-09-16T21:32:38.199-07:00New beauty waiting to be born<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/family2011.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<br />
I know many of you are asking about the boys and how they are doing. I do post updates often on my Face Book, so if you would like to add me feel free. Just let me know that you are a blog follower:)<br />
<br />
I have so many blog post rolling around in my mind and I so wish I had the time to write them down! In the meantime I thought I would do a quick catch up post and of course have pictures for your enjoyment. <br />
<br />
We have been home 3 months today! <br />
<br />
Gabe and Levi are doing really well. Far better than I expected really. <br />
<br />
Gabe is gaining more energy everyday. He likes to crawl throughout the house and even pulls himself to stand in his playpen. He is a cuddler and would spend the whole day with his arms wrapped around your neck, snuggled close to you if he could. <br />
<br />
Health wise he has gained 4 pounds. He does have a heart murmur and is scheduled for the cardiologist this Thursday. <br />
We went to the dentist and most of his teeth will need to come out. The rot and decay is due to 6 years of lying down with a bottle. The pain he must have went through is hard to even think about. <br />
Thankfully they <i>are</i> all baby teeth. <br />
We cannot have that procedure done however until we find out the condition of his heart. <br />
<br />
Levi surprises me everyday. He is learning sign language fast. I can sign "shoes" when it's time to go and he will go and take his shoes out of the cubby for me to put on. After one time of showing him to take his shoes off once we are home and to put them away, he now does this as soon as we walk in the door. <br />
Levi's main issue right now is over stimulation when we go out in public. He gets so excited with all the new sights and sounds that he works himself up to a place that is hard to bring him down from. At home though during our normal routine, he is usually calm and happy. <br />
I love that he is getting attached to me and Guy. If I am in a room with others, he will usually prefer me. He comes to me constantly throughout the day to be held and snuggled. <br />
<br />
Levi has also gained 4 pounds. He is overall healthy.<br />
<br />
Both boys will start speech, feeding, occupational, and physical therapy next week. <br />
The therapist said that Levi falls in the 16-19 month old developmentally and Gabe is around 3 months. <br />
They loved the boys and were excited to have "happy" kids to work with:) They said that I am going to be tickled to see how much and how quickly Gabe advances. <br />
<br />
So how is life at the House's House? <br />
Well, I went from looking for something to do during the week, to: schooling a 6th grader and 2 first graders, a little side job once a week so Jude and Zane could take Karate class, drum and guitar lessons (thanks to 2 wonderful Uncles), the gym 5-6 days a week (I am addicted to spin class!!!), co-op, church, changing more diapers than I can count, doctor appointments and therapy appointments. Whew! <br />
<br />
It is also filled with this:<br />
<br />
<b>First trip to the beach</b><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0685.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0733.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
When he saw the seagulls he ran flapping his little arms wildly after them<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0713.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0723.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0696.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
Looking at this gorgeous face everyday <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0786blkwht.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
Hugs from GG (Great Grandma) <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/20110815-000_0659.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
Of course naps are always nice<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0250.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<br />
Last month Gail Hollenbeck, Times Correspondent came to our home and wrote a beautiful story on our family. You can read it here: <br />
<a href="http://www.tampabay.com/news/religion/a-brooksville-family-shares-the-love-adopts-boys-with-down-syndrome/1185723">A Brooksville family shares the love, adopts boys with Down syndrome - St. Petersburg Times</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>"Dreams are renewable. No matter what our age or condition, <br />
there are still untapped possibilities within us and new beauty waiting to be born."</b><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_0799.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket">Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-88125363574527812332011-07-24T21:27:00.000-07:002011-07-25T06:54:56.409-07:00Angels SingingDid you hear them? <br />
<br />
The angels. <br />
<br />
Singing, every morning last week at 8:15AM when I walked out of our house with all 5 kids fed, teeth brushed, bathed, dressed and ready for VBS. It was definitely a miracle. <br />
<br />
This last month that we have been home I have basically been hanging around the house because of the simple fact that it takes a LOT to go out. Not just because there are now five kids, but with Gabe and Levi being more like a toddler and an infant, it takes a lot of planning and packing to be out for the day. <br />
<br />
It was a long week, but a great one. My husband was the director this year and I helped with the photography. The kids all had a blast. <br />
<br />
In the middle of this crazy week I thought a photo shoot was in order. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/20110721-000_9820.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/20110721-000_9809.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
My boys just LOVE to let mommy take their pictures<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/20110721-000_9782.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
Yeah right!!!<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/20110721-000_9770.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
"Why is mommy making me stand in this stuff?!?!"<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/20110721-000_9773.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
"It's not <i>that</i> bad Levi" <br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Levi3.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
"Well, this is better being off the ground, but I still wouldn't call this fun" <br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/20110721-000_9804.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Untitled-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Levi.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Levi2.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/20110721-000_9886copy2.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket">Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7942678991338236977.post-89833431761969255342011-07-16T18:44:00.000-07:002011-07-16T18:48:04.032-07:00Extreme Home Makeover<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9257.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
Cards given to us from sweet Matanya and Makayla. Love those girls. <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9258.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
I have been wanting to <strike>show off</strike> share what we came home to after our trip to get our boys. It was something I <i>never</i> even imagined. I am not one that you can pull surprises on very often. I almost always find out. <br />
<br />
Not this time...<br />
<br />
We could not wait to get HOME. Our boys. Our beds. Air condition. <br />
<br />
When we walked in to our house I couldn't believe my eyes. <br />
<br />
First of all, every womens dream. My house was spotless. <br />
<br />
I didn't leave it too out of order, but knowing that it was used by several different friends and family to watch the boys I figured it would be in need of a good cleaning when we returned.<br />
<br />
Then the next thing I noticed was my table. This wonderful table was handed down to me from my Grandma. I have memories of all the family on my Dad's side, sitting around the table for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. <br />
It now fits perfectly in my dinning room and is used for everything from meals to boardgames to Home School. <br />
As perfect as it was, the medium brown wood color wasn't my style. And neither were the blue striped country seat cushions. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_4080.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
(One of our Science days)<br />
<br />
I had dreamed and talked about painting it black someday. Of course I knew it was just talk because there was NO WAY <br />
I would ever get around to painting it. <br />
Way to big of a project for me. <br />
<br />
Oh yes they did!!!! My amazing family and friends refinished my table. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_8970.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_8973.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
It is far more awesome then I could have even imagined it to be. <br />
<br />
They even re-covered all the seat cushions. <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_8972.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<br />
I LOOOOOOOOOVE it.<br />
<br />
- A little side note. My sister Tanya has had a burden for awhile now to minister and assist with orphans in some way. She wrote about it <a href="http://lindyhouse.blogspot.com/2011/02/mend-broken-heart.html"><b>HERE</b></a> After working on my house she decided that she wants to refinish furniture and sell it having 100% of the profits going towards orphans and those adopting. <br />
So if anyone local has old furniture you'd like to get rid of, I know just the garage you can dump it in! - <br />
<br />
<b>But the surprises didn't stop there. <br />
</b><br />
<br />
Tanya said she had this idea for awhile, to fix up my house while we were gone. She actually said that she had many more things she wanted to do but we came back to soon. I told her she should've told me that and I could have arranged a long layover in Paris so she could finish.<br />
<br />
So Tanya, along with my sister Kara & her husband Stefen, my brothers Luke and Adam, and friends Amber and April spent countless hours in the evenings after work putting little touches all over my house. <br />
<br />
Refinished the "ugly desk"<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_8975.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Painted the light above the table <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9052.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Filled once empty frames all over my house with photo's of us in Ukraine.<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_8985.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Refinished this old door that Tanya bought and hung it as a frame to hold photo's.<br />
I can't wait to fill it up! <br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_8992.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_8993.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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I had really wanted to decorate the boys room but ran out of time. They added these cool touches which made the room perfect for my four boys.<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9003.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9004.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9005.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9019.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9009.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9006.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Genesis' room had special things all over. She was <i>thrilled</i> and shows it off any chance she gets.<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9033.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9037.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9035.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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A painted tree and bird to match her bedspread<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9023.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9026.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9029.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Wall decor<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9030.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9031.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9032.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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Painted above her closet<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/000_9040.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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<b><br />
It didn't end there</b><br />
<br />
Kara had 2 quarts of fresh goats milk in the fridge for Gabe. Two large zip lock bags full of homemade baby food in the freezer. Juice boxes, baby cereal. <br />
Special toothbrushes and toothpaste, and digestive vitamins for Gabe and Levi. <br />
She thought of everything.<br />
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And to top it all off<br />
<img src="http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l114/lindyhouse/Blog/257102_10150194908233924_517953923_7199507_3874429_o-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"><br />
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A big bowl full of chocolate covered pretzels, marshmallows and strawberries, of which I ate most of that night. <br />
Hey, my clock was still in Ukrainian time so to me it was dinner time. And yes, chocolate covered strawberries make the perfect dinner.<br />
<br />
Don't tell my kids that.<br />
<br />
<br />
I cannot express to you how wonderful it was to come home to such blessings. <br />
<br />
Although I didn't birth Gabe and Levi, the whole process felt like labor and delivery in so many ways. Coming home with these two new boys not knowing what they like, why they might be crying, etc. Top that with being thoroughly exhausted from the weeks in country and now the long plane rides and jet lag. <br />
I am so blessed to have family and friends in my life that get it, and are willing to make sacrifices just to take the load off of someone else. <br />
<br />
The next morning Kara brought over my long awaited Dunkin Doughnuts coffee and breakfast.<br />
<br />
I'm tellin ya, my family rocks. <br />
<br />
Then two days later my childhood friend Dawn and her family drove two hours from Orlando and showed up at my door with bags of grocery's. <br />
The chocolate chip muffin mix. Oh so good. <br />
<br />
Diapers keep showing up by the boxful which will save us hundreds of dollars a month. <br />
<br />
I know that most of you reading this have or are in the process of adopting. <br />
If you happen to be someone that isn't but you know someone in your church that is, a family member, neighbor, etc. Please try to consider helping them out when they come home. Coming home is exciting but is also full of emotions from exhaustion, being back with your other children that you've been separated from for weeks, culture shock, emotions over what you experienced over seas, leaving all the hundreds of children behind. It's roller coaster ride for sure and it doesn't end as soon as you get home. <br />
It breaks my heart to hear about other families that come home to no support. I don't know where I'd be without mine. <br />
We need each other. There are such small ways that we can show love and trust me, it won't soon be forgotten! <br />
EVERY TIME I walk by my table or the kids rooms, I am so grateful. As I devoured the chocolate chip muffins I was <i>really</i> thankful. I told ya, very similar to pregnancy. I am STILL craving chocolate;)<br />
<br />
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Tanya, Kara, Luke, April, Adam, Stefen and Amber I will be forever grateful. No, I will not refinish your furniture when you have babies, but I will do unlimited photo shoots of them for you;) <br />
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Peggy Savory and all the wonderful people at Community Bible Church, THANK YOU for the never ending supply of diapers and wet wipes!!! <br />
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Those of you that have given me clothes for the boys. What a blessing, thank you! <br />
<br />
<b>~"Love is that condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own."~</b>Lindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10719144506190074414noreply@blogger.com8