Monday, September 9, 2013

Heartbroken

We received some devastating news last week...

Lera is not actually available to be adopted until February 2014!  

If you want to adopt an orphan they first have to be registered at the DAP for in country adoption only, for one year. Then after the year is up, if they are not adopted, then DAP will open up the child's file for international adoption. Apparently, she wasn't put on the registry to be adopted in Ukraine until some time in February (2013) so that means a year has not pasted so she is not available internationally. This is devastating because she has been in the orphanage for 6 years!  


Since she has graduated she is set to be transferred to a trade school on August 31. We knew this and originally asked the orphanage to let her stay until our appointment on September 9th and they agreed, but now that she isn't available for another 5 months they said there is no way they can keep her. We of course found out this information after we booked our flights so we are going to the DAP appointment anyway. We hope we can petition the court once in country.
According to our facilitator there is nothing we can do until February. The DAP appointment we have on September 9th is just a formality at this point and they will not give us her referral, they will just reschedule until February. We have an appointment with the US Embassy the same day to file the i600 (Petition to declare an orphan an immediate relative) because if it is not filed by November when she is 16 1/2 she will no longer be adoptable. We are also going to see if we can apply for some sort of visa for her to come to the US until February. As a last resort is we have contacted two Christian organizations to see if they can take her in until Feb. She will be transferring to a building construction trade school because the beauty/cooking one is full. 
We know that God's timing is always perfect, but that doesn't mean it's easy. Please keep us in your prayers!

Ukraine here we come

WE GOT OUR DATE: MONDAY SEPTEMBER 9, 2013


I received a phone call this morning from our state side helper with our appointment date.  I was so excited and overwhelmed at the same time.  Finally the date we've been waiting for, but now I've got some planning to do!  First move run downstairs and tell my husband who is "trying" to work and is on the phone why I'm jumping up and down in front of him.  Next I jump on the computer and start looking up flights.  We've decided to drive to New York since Jacob will be staying with family because the flights out of NY are more direct.  I call the travel agent and book the flights, it's so surreal...thought this day would never come!




So now that our application is approved, and we received an invitation to visit the DAP.  When we arrive in Ukraine, the DAP will show us Lera's file (very limited information about her I'm sure).  The DAP then issues a letter of referral to allow us visit the orphanage to meet and establish contact with the child. Along with the letter of referral, we will be given our documents, bound, numbered, sealed, and signed by an official in charge of the DAP, with a separate sheet specifying the number of pages and the prospective parents' registration file code.  Sounds very official!

Hurry up and wait

In order to adopt internationally you much submit a dossier (as known as a collection of documents). The following is a list of documents we need to provide the DAP in Ukraine.

  1. Petition asking to adopt specific child (CSP)
  2. Petition for adoption
  3. Petition for data processing
  4. Home study report – 2 originals
  5. Agency license – 2 copies
  6. Social worker's license –2 copies
  7. I-171H form (USCIS approval)
  8. Employment statement (husband)
  9. Employment statement (wife)
  10. Proof of home ownership (mortgage/rental documents and county assessor)
  11. Medical certificate (husband)
  12. Medical certificate (wife)
  13. Marriage certificate - 2 originals
  14. Passport copy (husband) - 4 originals
  15. Passport copy (wife) - 4 originals
  16. State Police clearance or FBI clearance (husband)
  17. State Police clearance or FBI clearance (wife)
  18. Letter of obligation - 2 originals
  19. Power of attorney- 5 originals
  20. Copy of Doctor’s License 
  21. Petition for Interpol - 2 originals
  22. 1040 tax form from previous year
  23. Name declarations – one each if needed
  24. POA one spouse to another- 2 originals, one each parent
Hand delivered by a RR family

Mailed via Fed Ex

Monday, August 26, 2013

The Livshin's Big Girl Shower


A very special thank you to my friend Amanda who threw us an AMAZING "Big Girl Shower"...

It's time to celebrate the Livshin's newest arrival! The Livshin family has submitted their dossier to Ukraine and is anxiously awaiting the news of a travel date to bring home their daughter Lera! We are so excited to have the chance to shower love, gifts, and support on Jamie as an expectant Mom of sweet 16 year old Lera.

Gigi's Cupcakes







It truly takes a village!


Monday, August 5, 2013

GoPlaySave Coupon Book Fundraiser





THE NEW BOOK IS HERE...


Our GoPlaySave Coupon Book Fundraiser runs August 1, 2013 - August 30, 2013

The GoPlaySave Coupon Book is a name change for the Citipass coupon books. The books are handy to have in your car to save money when eating out or attending local entertainment venues. In the coupon book there are many buy one get one free offers, so by using just one or two coupons the book pays for itself. 

Each GoPlaySave book is $30 and a portion of each book will be donated to help add to our adoption fund and bring us even closer to meeting our goal! 

  • Thousands of dollars in discounts from over 285 Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Garner & Apex-area merchants. 
  • Discounts include "Buy One Get One Free" and 50% Off 
  • Merchants include Restaurants, Fun Stuff & Shopping 
  • Long Shelf Life - Coupons expire December 30, 2014


See more at: http://www.goplaysavetriangle.com/

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Simple and Adoption...

Nothing is simple in the world of adoption!


A lot has happened since James returned home from the mission trip.  We initially thought we could do a few simple updates to our paperwork and be on the fast track to adopting our daughter.  We already had our home study completed, medical exams completed, SBI background checks, passports, marriage licence, biometric fingerprints, and US Immigration Approval.  Since all of our paperwork was to adopt one male child between the age of 8-10 all we needed to do was an addendum to our home study to change the sex and age range.  Send that off to immigration and our approval letter would be updated.  Simple right...not quite.  After some back and forth with our immigration officer it was concluded we had to file a brand new application with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) because although the approval was still valid it was not within the time frame required overseas.  That meant an update to our home study not an addendum would need to be done, which not only is a significant the cost difference, but our social worker would need to do another home visit which would take time out of our already tight deadline.  And then the snowball effect...

Our social worker was out on maturity leave, our medical exams were a year old and no longer valid, our SBI background checks expired in 3 days, our marriage licence was certified more than six months ago so they were no longer valid, we decided to take the kids with us when we travel so now they needed passports.  Not to worry our home study agency assured us they would find another social worker in our area to assist us.  I call my doctor's office, to make physical appointments for my husband and I, I explain my situation and they say the next available appointment is in June...since that obviously will not work I leave a message for the doctor (who is actually my neighbor).  Then I call the pediatrician to make physical appointments for the kids...their doctor is on maturity leave...and won't be back until the end of May...REALLY...I explain my situation and ask to see another doctor, they give me some resistance but after standing firm I got appointments for them the following week.  My doctor calls back and says she can see my husband and I that Friday...Perfect.  I mail out new SBI background check applications, complete and print the passport forms for the kids, gather our passports, birth certificates, social security cards, drivers license...anything I might possibly need for the appointment.  I will call the Apex post office to set it up and we should be all set.

Getting a hold of the post office via telephone is probably equivalent to calling the white house and asking to speak to the president!  I called and was told I had to call back on Friday because that is the only day they make passport appointments.  Ok fine I can wait two days no big deal.  Friday comes and when I call they tell me the person that processes the passports is out and won't be back until the following Friday to please call back then.  Slightly annoyed but what can I do.  The next Friday comes and I literally called 30 times and the phone was busy.  Now we are starting to lose our patience so James decides the following Friday he will go to the post office in person to make the appointment.  Well when he shows up the next Friday they say appointments can only be made by phone so anyone in line for an appointment must leave.  At this point we are completely done with Apex...so we begin calling other post offices and in Raleigh there is a 6 week wait, can't get through to Fuquay,  and Holly Springs doesn't process passports.  FINALLY we get an appointment in Garner, but my husband is going to be away on a business trip.  I truly was about to give up, getting a passport just shouldn't be this hard.  James called the post office in Angier (I've never even heard of this town) and said he was able to get an appointment...April 24, nearly one month later.

It's April 24, we arrive at the post office exactly at 10:00 a.m. for our appointment.  We skip the family already waiting as they have a 10:15 appointment.  The woman processing the applications is super nice.  I tell her all about the adoption, we pay, she wishes us good luck and we are walking out 20 minutes later.  When we get outside James turns to me and says "by the way we didn't really have an appointment", "excuse me" I said, "you told me we had a 10:00 a.m. appointment".  He says "well they didn't have any appointments for two weeks and we really need to get this done so I asked them what time the first appointment is and the lady said 10:00 so that's what I told you".  As much as I wanted to kill him I was happy he tricked me!

On May 17th...The Livshin Family became international!!!



Saturday, June 8, 2013

Need a Father's Day Gift?

We have the perfect solution...

Father's Day is Sunday June 16th..take Dad to his favorite restaurant while helping a great cause!



Receive a $50 Restaurant.com Gift Certificate by donating $20 to help the Livshin Family Adoption Fundraiser!


Go to this link:

http://coupaide.com/deal/livshin-adoption-fundraiser/


DEAL DETAILS

  • $20 for $50 E-Certificate to Restaurant.com
  • Redeem at multiple restaurants.
  • Card never expires.
  • Transfer card to a friend as a friend without penalty.
  • Easy to use. Simply visit Restaurant.com, find your favorite restaurant, print the custom coupon, and give it to your waiter.

WHY SHOULD YOU DONATE?

  • You can use this card while in or out of town. Restaurant.com has partnered with over 18,000 restaurants across the country!
  • Your supporting cause collects $10 with each purchase. 
  • Huge bang for your buck. You receive a $50 gift certificate with only a $20 contribution. 
  • Instant gratification. Receive your gift certificate immediately upon purchase. 
  • Certificates make great gifts and never expire. 
  • With over 18,000 partnered restaurants nationwide use these gift certificates while you are in our out of town. 
  • Extremely easy to use. Visit Restaurant.com, find your favorite restaurant, print the custom voucher, and give it to your waiter. 
  • You may break your $50 up in $10, $15, or $25 to redeem at multiple locations.

Friday, June 7, 2013

Thirty-One/Origami Owl Fundraiser (June 8)

Join us for a fun afternoon and help raise money for our adoption.  We will have Thirty-One and Origami Owl products on display...



***MONTHLY SPECIAL***


The necklace we will present to our daughter after court:

Can't make it...you can still help! Order online:


https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/eventhome.aspx?eventId=E3332913&from=MYEVENTS
(***Host Name - Christina McAlister***)

www.thecharmlady.origamiowl.com
(***Select my name on the jewelry bar drop down on the check out screen. 100% of the proceeds go to our adoption!***)

Why Rescue Orphans? (RR)

Because of the overwhelming need and because God directs us to do so in scripture:


There is no greater gift, one that goes 3 ways, than to adopt a child, with or without special needs.  You honor God, you are blessed with an angel in your own life, and you change the course of a child's life forever.   If you have any doubts about it, please read below:

"Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, "Give them up!" and to the south, "Do not hold them back." Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth"  Isaiah 43:5-6

"A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.  God sets the lonely in families.  (Psalms 68:5-6)

"He defends the cause of the fatherless"  (Deuteronomy 10:18)

"In you the fatherless find mercy." (Hosea 14:4)

"You are the helpers of the fatherless." (Psalm 10:14)

"It is not the will of your Father that one of these little ones should perish." (Matthew 18:14)

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress." (James 1:27)

"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." (Luke 18:16)

"I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you." (John 14:18)

"Whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me." (Matthew 18:5)

"And Jesus took the children in his arms, put his hands on them, and blessed them." (Mark 10:16)

"Remember those…who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering." (Hebrews 13:3)

"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us…let us not love with word or tongue, but with action and in truth." (I John 3:16-18)

"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in." (Matthew 25:35)

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves…defend the rights of the needy." (Proverbs 31:8,9)

"He defended the cause of the poor and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me, declares the Lord." (Jeremiah 22:16)

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

ZPizza Fundraiser

 
 
We are selling zpizza vouchers (previously boxes) for $10...bring the voucher to the nearest zpizza for a free z10" pizza of your choice!

Specialty pizza, quality ingredients, unique combination, truly original taste sensations!

For over 25 years, zpizza has set the standard for "pure" in the pizza industry. In fact, we are the largest gourmet pizza franchise in the world that features fresh, organic ingredients. We also offer a complete menu of fresh and delicious pastas, salads and sandwiches.
Check out their website...
 
Redemption Guidelines:
  • May redeem up to three (3) of these cards in one visit.
  • Can be redeemed for any z10 on the menu, or a z10 with up to three (3) toppings. Includes, regular, wheat, and gluten free pizza crust.
  • Cannot be combine with any other offer or special.
  • No cash value
  • Only valid at one of the locations listed below.

 

Three Convenient Locations:

 
Cary: Stone Creek Village
96 Cornerstone Dr.
Cary, NC 27519

Raleigh: 9630 Falls of Neuse Rd. Suite 103
Raleigh, NC 27615

Downtown: 421 Fayetteville St. Suite 103
Raleigh, NC 27601
 

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Happy Birthday...

Sweet Sixteen

In this country a sweet sixteen is a coming of age party celebrating a girl's sixteenth birthday.  The current trend in sweet sixteens is an extremely formal, large affair with a hired DJ, makeup, and hair stylists, yachts, and hotel ballrooms.  Popular traditions include the candle lighting ceremony, where each of the 16 candles has a special meaning, the shoe ceremony, where the birthday girl sits down in a chair while her grandfather, uncle, godfather, or father approaches her with high heels on a decorative pillow. The girl would traditionally be wearing flat shoes, such as slippers, and the father ceremoniously helps her into her new high heels. This is symbolic of the girl transitioning into a woman. The tiara ceremony, which is similar to the shoe ceremony, except the mother approaches with a tiara instead of shoes. She places it on her daughter's head to symbolize her becoming a woman. Sometimes this is combined with the shoe ceremony, so that two people approach the birthday girl, one with a pillow with high heels, and the other with a pillow with a tiara.  The father daughter dance where girl and her father dance to a slow-jazz or traditional song while everyone sits and watches. This is mainly the first song of the night.  Finally, there is the video montage, where a DJ often brings along several flat screen televisions or a projector to show a video montage set to music of the birthday girl containing pictures starting from when she was a baby and getting older, usually ending with pictures of her in her sweet sixteen wear.  These parties have become the size of small weddings as documented on MTV's My Super Sweet 16. 

Then there is our daughter, who probably has never had a birthday party or at least not in the last 6 years.  She said only the children with families will usually have a cake.  Well she has a family and she is loved so we contacted one of the local missionaries and we were able to send over some money so she could purchase a cake, chocolates, and soda for her class.  It may not be a "Super Sweet 16" but from the looks of it the kids had a great time!



 

Fun in the Sun

We want to send out a special thank you to everyone that came to the picnic and silent auction we had on Saturday to Help Bring Home Lisa & Scott at Crowder Park in Apex.  We had a wonderful turnout and great fellowship!!!  Absolutely loved seeing everyone and the support we all have for one another. 






Graduation

 

Congratulations to our daughter for finishing her schooling. We are so proud of her and believe she can do anything she puts her mind to. 


 
 

Monday, May 6, 2013

T-Shirt Fundraiser




By your purchase of a tee shirt, as small as it may seem, you are becoming a part of our family’s story and it brings us one step closer to fulfilling God’s plan of bringing Lera home and making us her forever family.

All tees are printed on high-quality, soft ring spun cotton.

***We will receive 25-45% of the sales from the six different tee shirts sold in our store***

To place your order Now thru May 31st, please visit:
www.adoptionbug.com/livshin



Thirty-One Fundraiser



This is an ONLINE fundraiser to help bring Lisa and Scott home! So shop to you drop without having to leave the house! The party will run from May 1 - May 30.

Please visit the below link to place your order:
https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/eventhome.aspx?eventId=E3212221&from=MYEVENTS

...
If you are new to Thirty-One, you are going to fall in love...they have so many products that can help make your life easier. Whether it’s style, organization, the perfect giftable item — or a little bit of everything — you’ve come to the right place!

From totes or purses you can wear while you’re out and about, thermals to help you transport food and drinks to a party, or organizational items to help you keep your house neat and tidy Thirty-One has a solution!

THIS MONTH'S SPEICAL: FOR EVERY $31 GET 1/2 OFF ANY THERMAL!

***20% of all sales will go directly to the adoption fund.***

Origami Owl Jewelry Fundraiser



Join us for a Jewelry Bar at our Picnic to help bring Lisa and Scott home!
 

Every jewelry creation serves as a reminder of who you are, where you have been, where you are going and the dreams you carry in your heart. So, look inside yourself to create fun, fashionable, meaningful jewelry that is as unique as you are.

OUR MISSION IS TO BE A FORCE FOR GOOD; TO LOVE, INSPIRE

+ MOTIVATE WOMEN OF ALL AGES TO REACH THEIR DREAMS +

EMPOWER THEM TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF OTHERS.

If you can't attend the picnic you can order online now thru May 30th at:

www.thecharmlady.origamiowl.com
(Be sure to select our fundraiser at check out)

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Puzzle Fundraiser

Piecing together our Puzzle...

 
 

How the Puzzle Fundraiser Works:

In order to raise funds for our adoption, we are starting a Puzzle Fundraiser. People who donate to our adoption fund will purchase puzzle piece(s). The puzzle piece(s) purchased will have the name of the person/family donating written on the back. As people/families purchase puzzle pieces, the adoption puzzle will be assembled. I will be updating my blog with the progress of the puzzle as it is formed.
After the puzzle is completed, we will frame the puzzle between two pieces of glass and hang it in our daughter's bedroom. This will be a wonderful keepsake for her to see all of the people who were part of bringing her home.
 
Cost of 1 Puzzle Piece = $20
(There are 60 puzzle pieces which will add $1,200 to our adoption fund)
 
 
You may choose to purchase a single piece, or if you want to donate a larger amount, you may purchase as many pieces as you desire.
 

How to Donate:
  • Click on the Reece's Rainbow FSP button on the right sidebar and pay securely through PayPal
  • Write a check and make it out to: Reece’s Rainbow, PO Box 4024, Gaithersburg, MD 20885 (Please include a note telling them the donation is for our family or write our name in the memo section)
  • Write a check or donate cash and hand deliver to myself or James (Checks can be made payable to us)
  • Mail a check to us (email me at jaeme68@hotmail.com for our address)

After you purchase a puzzle piece, enter your name in the comment section below then watch this blog for your puzzle piece(s) to be added.
 
Thank you for your support

2 Aging Out Teens, 2 Families, Adoption Celebration!!!

Come Celebrate With The Dewberry & Livshin Family And Help Bring Home Lera & Sasha!


 
As Many Of You Know In March Nicole, Kolya & James Went On A Mission Trip To Ukraine With A Team. On This Trip Nicole Met Sasha & James Met Lera Both 15 Year Old Aging Out Teens! Now The Two Families Have Joined Together To Bring These Two Teens Home!

We Will Be Having A Donation Fundraiser Dinner & Silent Auction (With Many Goodies From Ukraine, Abroad And Local) To Help Support Both Families Adoption Cost.
... Suggested Minimum Dinner Donation $5.00 Per Person or $20.00 Per Family.

Crowder Park @ The Robin Shelter

4709 Ten-Ten Road, Apex, NC 27539

Saturday, May 25, 2013 - 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.


Meal Includes:
Hot Dogs
Potato Salad
Baked Beans
Chips
Desserts
Iced Tea
Soda
Water

To Visit The Livshin Blog About Their Adoption Adventure: www.godsizedadventure.blogspot.com 
To Visit The Dewberry Blog About Their Adoption & Missions: www.andthisonematters.blogspot.com 

If You Cannot Attend The Dinner/Auction But Would Like To Help Contribute To Help Bring Lera and Sasha Home You Can Make a Tax-Deductible Donation To These Two Links Below:

 
If You Would Like To Bid On Some Of Our Auction Items We Have Up Now Please Visit:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.513078288739091.1073741825.486219068091680&type=3


HOPE YOU CAN COME CELEBRATE THIS JOYOUS OCCASION WITH US!!!


Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Podcast - Give 10 tell 10 Challenge

Faith for A God Sized Adventure


Listen to Jamie's interview by Aliene Thompson noted Christan author and speaker...

http://s3.amazonaws.com/TreasuredMinistries/Jamie.mp3

Read Treasured Ministries latest blog post about our story...

Give 10 Tell 10 – Be a Part of a God Sized Adventure

About Aliene

Aliene Thompson is a noted Christian author and speaker who has a heart for teaching women to study God’s Word for themselves to discover the Treasure and freedom of following Christ. She is the founder of Treasured Ministries.

Aliene became a Christian in 1996 when she attended a day-long women’s conference at an area church in North Carolina. A never-ending love for God’s Word began that day. Since that time, she has been a speaker at various women’s events and conferences.

In 2007, Aliene began teaching a Bible study of Galatians to a group of women at her home church in Raleigh, North Carolina. On completion of this study, they encouraged her to teach another. God called her not only to teach, but also to write the next study. The result was her first study Radically Obedient Obedient - a study on the life of Joshua.

The enthusiastic response to Radically Obedient prompted Aliene to continue writing further studies, including You Belong to the Bridegroom – a study on the gospel of Mark and Dream Builder – a study on Joseph and the Patriarchs. She continues to write additional studies, and in 2012, took the step of founding Treasured Ministries.

In all of Aliene’s studies, you will find two hallmarks: a desire to link the hearts of women with a God who loves them beyond measure and a passion to teach women how to study God’s word for themselves.

Aliene knows by experience what it is to be rescued by Jesus and the truth of God’s Word. She can uniquely connect to the hearts of women—and has a teaching gift that draws them into the Scriptures.

Aliene is the founder of Treasured Ministries. Aliene received a BA in Communications Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her greatest ministry is to family. She and husband, Jim, were married in 1995. She is a busy and dedicated mother of two sons. When she is not writing, she enjoys spending time at the beach.

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Press Release

International Adoption or Abandonment: One Raleigh Family’s Race Against Time

image
International Adoption or Abandonment

On an international mission trip to the Ukraine, sponsored by Hope Community Church, James Livshin began a God-sized adventure. They arrived at the aged, dank, cold orphanage on a frigid March day. This place was so intimidating it was almost inconceivable that it housed children. James said that they were there to “share the love and good news of Christ” but wasn’t prepared for the overwhelming love that they received by the disadvantaged children.

(Newswire.net -- April 23rd, 2013) Raleigh, NC -- James Livshin is beginning the adventure of his life after a mission trip to the Ukraine introduced him to the world of international abandonment.
Lisa was like the orphanage mother, an amazing 15 year old with so much love to give. She was very nurturing to the younger orphans and has seen many children come and go. She is turning 16 in two months and that means she will age out of the system. She will be abandoned. In the Ukraine aging out of the system means that you are on your own to face the world. For Lisa, aging-out is too awful to even think about.

The Livshin’s have three children of their own including a 15 year old daughter. She has grown up will all the comforts of this world, a nice home, food, clothes, and a good education. James knew that his own daughter was nowhere near ready to be on her own. So then, what are the chances for Lisa?  The Unicef.org and its partners reported the following frightening stats for the Ukraine from 2009 to 2012: 96% of abandoned orphans will turn to alcohol abuse, 80% of abandoned orphans will turn to some form of crime, 24% of abandoned orphans will contract HIV, 15% of abandoned orphans will commit suicide, and the list goes on. What if these were the odds for his daughter? James says he asked himself “if this was God’s plan for him?” Was he Lisa’s last chance of having a home where she could be part of a family for the first time? Lisa is a dreamer, and for years her biggest dream was to modestly belong to a family. She pleads her case with international adoption candidates with promises to cook, clean, help and work to earn the love of her own family. A sleepless night was all it took. James told his wife that she deserves more. Like any other child in this world she deserves unconditional love.

James took action. The total cost of the adoption is $25,000 and he put up $10,000 of his own money to start the process. The Livshin family has also partnered with Reece's Rainbow Adoption Ministry out of Maryland. He has approximately two months to raise the additional $15,000 and prepare his family to travel overseas for six weeks to go through the strenuous international adoption process.
James and Jamie Livshin have three children of their own and live in the Raleigh area of North Caroline. To support their effort to save Lisa’s life, make a tax deductible donation here: http://reecesrainbow.org/57053/sponsorlivshin

To share this press release use this link:

http://www.newswire.net/newsroom/financial/73183-international_adoption.html

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Prayers for Boston

 
 

Our hearts go out to the people of Boston...

 
It is a sad reminder of the world we live in when an attack is aimed at innocent men, women and children enjoying a Spring day out at a major sporting event. The bombings are shocking, cowardly and horrific. I can't help but think of Lera at a time like this, as her life has been full of fear and uncertainty for many years. Children should be allowed to be children to live without fear, concern, stress, or anxiety.
 
I lived in New York during 9/11, I was a college student and I remember the uncertainly and fear I felt.  My mother worked at the World Financial Center which is connected with the World Trade Center.  I could not get a hold of her by phone.  My sister and brother were in elementary school at the time and so I race to get them.  They had lots of questions especially about my mother and I did not have any answers for them.  It wasn't until late in the afternoon when my mother came through the door that we knew she was okay.  She had got out the back of the building and taken a ferry boat to New Jersey, she then had to walk all the way home, which took hours.  The sense of relief was immeasurable.
 
Boston and New York are proud cities built on history, tradition, and a real sense of community.  I cannot wait to bring Lera home to a community that already loves her.  For her to feel connected for the first time to a family, friends, and a God whose dream for her life is so much greater than she could ever imagine.

Friday, April 19, 2013

Make some NOISE...

In order to spread the word about our adoption we created a flyer and postcard to give out. 


We will be mailing them out together and encouraging people to keep the flyer and give the postcard to someone they know.

If anyone is willing to help us make some noise and pass these out please let us know and we will drop off a stack to you!

Here is our flyer:


Here is our postcard:

Front
 
Back


Sunday, April 14, 2013

Crowdfunding Campaign

There are PERKS for donating...


Check out our Crowdfunding Campaign for a wristband, painted egg, t-shirts and/or a personalized letter!

http://igg.me/at/uaorphans/x/2996128

The Idea Behind Indiegogo

When our founders joined forces in 2007, they had diverse backgrounds and varied interests. However, they had one important thing in common: Danae, Eric and Slava each tried to raise money for something they were passionate about, but they came up short. They had great ideas, the passion to work hard, and good networks, yet access to funding through traditional channels proved limited. The trio was determined to find a solution to the problem. Indiegogo was born; the crowdfunding solution that empowers ideas and enables people to donate funds easily.

 

Our Mission is to Get Your Passion Funded

At Indiegogo you'll find a welcoming, supportive community that embraces collaboration, fearlessness and authenticity. You provide the passion, we'll provide industry leading tools and support to help you promote your campaign and raise funds quickly, easily and securely. Have a look around and get inspired by the amazing people and campaigns raising funds every day. You could be the next, great success story!

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Staggering Statistics

Take a minute to read through this carefully. It is mind boggling…


In Central and Eastern European countries alone (this would include Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Romania, etc, but NOT Russia), there are more than 1.5 MILLION CHILDREN who have been abandoned by their families for one reason or another and are living in "public care" (that's the nice way to put it). Some do not survive because of serious medical complications…some do not survive because of lack of medical attention, lack of food, and/or lack of LOVE. 
 

Major Challenges for Children:

  • Many children get an unhealthy start in life
  • Ukraine is the country worst affected by HIV/AIDS in Europe.
  • Care and treatment for children and families affected by HIV/AIDS is poor.
  • Of Ukraine’s eight million children some 96,000 live in state-run children’s institutions such as orphanages, boarding schools and shelters.
  • A prevention-oriented juvenile justice system is yet to be established
  • Ukraine is a source country for trafficking in human beings

The fate of an orphan:


96% of abandoned orphans will turn to alcohol Abuse

40% of abandoned orphans will use some form of illegal drugs

22% of abandoned orphans will use injected drugs (and share... the same needles)

80% of abandoned orphans will  turn to some form of crime

11% of abandoned orphaned will be raped

17% of abandoned orphan will enter (or will be forced) into prostitution

26% of abandoned orphans will contract HIV/AIDS

15% of abandoned orphans will commit suicide

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

I am her Papa...

God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. 

Eph. 1:5 (NLT)

  

As best said by John Hanibal from the A-Team “ I love it when a plan comes together”.  We all know there is a great plan for us. We often don’t know the plan and if someone would have told me this would be my plan 10 years ago I would have laughed. Many would wonder why I would want to adopt and why a TEENAGER at that. I have three wonderful children and God knows they keep me busy and feeling young. Especially my rambunctious two year old Jacob.
 
Let me start from the day Jamie told me she had a gift for me.  She had some money and wanted to give it to me to go on the upcoming mission trip to the Ukraine. I wasn't really sure I wanted to go at first.  I've never been on a mission trip, I didn't know if I could get the time off of work, and we could probably use the money for something in the house.  However, I do speak Russian and what a great opportunity to practice.  I would also love to see where my grandmother came from.  Oh, and while I’m there I can love on some orphans. The one thing I was quite sure about was the fact that I did NOT want to adopt.  I was just going to help, spend time with the kids, and practice my Russian.

When we arrived at the orphanage we entered an old but, well-kept building.  It was a bit intimidating...even for a me, so I can only imagine how the kids must feel. We start setting up for our grand production when in walks "L". It was clear that she knew our mission leader Tiffany. She came in and gave her a big hug. There was such joy in her smile to see the group there. It almost seemed to me that she’d been waiting for us to come all year. She was quiet, but very sure of herself. There was something about her that reminded me of my oldest daughter Emillie. It was so amazing to look at "L" and see the joy she had even though her future at that point looked grim.  That night I couldn't sleep.  I couldn't help but ask "Is this really her plan God?"

The next day we broke the kids up into small groups.  "L" ended up being in mine.  She has the kind of smile that’s infectious. You can’t help but smile back at her. She was so kind to the smaller children in helping with crafts and just listening to them. I could tell that she was somewhat of an older sister to many of the younger girls. I also saw a servants heart in "L" that almost brought a tear to my eye.  (Since I’m a man and I don’t cry I’ll blame the tear on a dust particle that got in my eye...but that darn dust particle would not leave me alone.) Every time I saw "L" give of herself when there was nothing to give that dust particle got in my eye. For example, I know candy is hard to come by and they only get on occasion as a treat. It really got to me when "L" brought me candy that she obviously was saving. She wanted me to have it just because I was there loving on her and her friends. She also made me a bracelet that I’m still wearing as I type this blog entry.
It was on the third day that I was able to learn more about "L". This was a special little girl with deep rooted pain, but she did not show it. You see "L" has no one in her life who loves her. No one who visits her in the orphanage.  As far has her family she has a mother and stepfather and two adult brothers. Her last memory of her mother was when her stepfather beat her mother half to death and wound up in the hospital.  "L" was then taken away. She has no further memories of her mother. She can’t even be sure she is alive today. She expressed to me that she is too old for anyone to want her. All the Americans who come to adopt always take the little kids. She feels it’s just too late for her.

That night I just knew this was not the plan for “L”. There was a greater plan for her life and I knew she was to be part of my family...she is my daughter and I am her Papa.  I don’t want to adopt her because I need more children. I want to save her life. Without adoption I fear the fate of this little girl. She deserves better and I plan to give her a new start and a better, brighter future.
This little girl has shown she is grateful for everything she has and I can’t wait to see her smile and that look in her eyes when I return to take her home and make her part of my family.

Although John Hannibal loves when a plan comes together, I love when HIS plan comes together.

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AUCTION FOR LISA & SCOTT!


We are also holding an auction of items purchased in Ukraine to bring our kiddos home. Here are some of our lovely items and please take a peak at them to place your donation on the link below! 

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.513078288739091.1073741825.486219068091680&type=1

All donations are 100% tax-deductible and will be divided between both families and can be made directly to our children's Reece's Rainbow Pages.

2 Timing Out Teens, 2 Adoptions & The Mission Teams Eastern Europe Adventure!


Here is the crazy mission team God so perfectly put together heading to Eastern Europe to minister to orphans the love of Christ and love on them. We cannot thank each and every person who helped our team get there to serve!!!  A big thanks to Hope Community Church (www.gethope.net) and Redline United (www.redlineunited.org) for sponsoring the trip.


On the team trip James and Nicole met.  Nicole has such a heart for orphans.  She and her husband Joe have adopted 3 children from Eastern Europe so it was a real blessing they were place together.


Even though James is sporting a posh euro purse...they really did minister to the kids...



During the visit to the orphanage Nicole was introduced to a young man who won the hearts of the team from the previous year.  When she was asked to advocate for him he became so heavy on her heart and God literally laid this boy in her lap thanks to Tiffany on the team (the prayer the night before was God lay this young man literally in our laps).  Nicole knew she had to adopt him!
 
James and Nicole made a packed that they would go through their adoptions together and help one another.  Nicole put us in touch with Reece's Rainbow and an amazing state side helper named Nancy.  They loaded their suitcases in country with what they could to bring home to sell in an auction and fundraise together to bring our kiddos home. We are hoping and praying to land in country together to bring our kids home that God brought us both to on this incredible mission trip.


Please follow us on our journey of bringing "L" and "S" home to our families!

We are asking first and foremost for prayer and protection for our kids, the children we ministered to and our families as we move to bring the kids home.

 
Financial Need For The Livshin Family is:
$15,000.00
You can visit our blog at: http://www.godsizedadventure.blogspot.com



Financial Need For The Dewberry Family is:
$24,000.00

Costs are as follows:
  • Homestudy
  • Medical Exams
  • SBI Background Checks
  • US Immigration application and fingerprinting
  • Dossier translation and registration
  • Passports
  • Mail, Notary, and Document Appostilling
  • International Adoption Fees
  • Air travel expenses
  • Lodging, food, and transportation for 6 weeks in Eastern Europe
  • Embassy Medical Exam and Orphan Visa

WE HAVE APPROX. 2 MONTHS TO RAISE THESE FUNDS AND PREPARE FOR TRAVEL BECAUSE BOTH OUR TEENS ARE AGING OUT. LISA IN LESS THEN 2 MONTHS AND SCOTT THIS SUMMER AT GRADUATION!