Dear friends, far and wide,
It is with deep sadness that we learn that President Putin has announced he intends to sign the ban on intercountry adoptions from Russia to the United States. The would include our adoption of Alissa.
We are simply heartbroken. Heartbroken for our little girl. Heartbroken for ourselves. Heartbroken for our countries - that we have been unable to address our differences courageously, honestly, and with integrity.
We do not know what our next steps are. With the holidays here in the United States it is difficult to get ahold of anyone. We will keep you informed if and when we know anything different than what we know today.
Today we can only ask for your prayers.
We pray simply that the Spirit would stir in a loving family to care for this little girl we hope could still be ours - to take her home and give her everything she needs and more.
We pray that, as with all countries, that both the United States and Russia would awaken to the reality that we are a global society. Even the smallest acts have implications for others. We pray that every leader in every country could come to this awareness and, despite ideological differences, work for the good of all people everywhere.
We pray for all children without a home and without a family. May this battle serve to awaken an awareness in all of us that this is not the way we are meant to live, and may that stir us to action.
We thank you for your continued prayers, and words of support and encouragement, they are like gold to us right now, and we treasure them.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Waiting...
There's not much to write today. The New York Times is reporting that the upper legislative house of Russian Parliament voted unanimously to pass the ban on adoptions to the United States. We are, of course, heartbroken. Now we can only wait, and pray, that President Putin will not sign the bill, either in its current state, or at all. We are so desperate to bring Alissa home, and are just sick that it may not be a possibility any more. We so deeply feel that she was meant to be a part of our family. The waiting is paralyzing. As we have throughout this process we covet your prayers and positive thoughts. As you pray for us, we also ask that you pray for Alissa, that if she is not to be ours, that some other, wonderful family will take her home and give her the life every child deserves. Please also pray for President Putin, that his ultimate decision on this matter be guided by what is best for children, and not politics, and that he can see that not all American parents are horrible - most of us are simply trying to create our jamaa (our God-given family), the family we couldn't create on our own. Thank you, all of you, for your continued vigilance and support during this incredibly sensitive time.
Friday, December 21, 2012
No Words
Word has reached us that the upper house of Russian Parliament has indeed passed the ban on intercountry adoptions to the United States. There are no words to express our sadness and desperation. This is not yet the end, President Putin must still sign it, but the speed with which this has passed is stunning. Our agency, as well as the National Council For Adoption are still working to see what they can do. Our hearts still try to remain hopeful that perhaps we'll still be able to get our little girl home before this new law goes into effect. The US and Russia only just signed an agreement regarding adoptions that went into effect in November! All we can do now is pray that they will allow this current agreement to stand before enacting the ban.
I don't have much else to say. I'm heartbroken. Please pray for us, and for this little girl.
I don't have much else to say. I'm heartbroken. Please pray for us, and for this little girl.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Dear President Putin
Dear President Putin,
I cannot even begin to imagine the incredible challenge of being charged with leading an entire country of people. The weight of the enormity of your decisions must be a great burden to bear. It takes leaders with clarity of mind, great wisdom and broad vision to make great countries. It takes even greater leaders to bring countries together to work for a greater global society. You have been just such a leader, at many different opportunities. Today I beg you to be that leader once again.
When my husband and I met twelve years ago, we had both dedicated our lives to the service of children. My husband has more than 15 years of experience in ministry to teenagers and young adults. I have a college degree in elementary education, and have spent the last 8 years in ministry to children. Two years ago, after struggling for a very long time to have our own family, our doctors finally told us we were asking for a 'miracle.' It was going to be impossible for us to have our own children. As a father yourself, I'm sure you can understand how devastated we were. With heavy, yet hopeful hearts, we began the process of adopting a child from within the United States. After waiting a very long time with no progress, we once again became very discouraged. That's when we completely, and unexpectedly, had our hearts stolen by a little girl... in Russia.
Through a network of friends and agencies we learned about a little girl in your country who needs a forever family. Because of her special needs I'm sure many families shy away from considering calling her their own. We are not one of those families. I am not lying when I say that from the moment we heard about her we felt that she was meant for us, and we for her. We understand her special needs and are not afraid of them. Additionally, we are fortunate to have excellent heath care coverage that will cover all her needs as she grows up. In short, we feel that we can provide the kind of loving, caring, supportive home I am certain you desire for every Russian child.
Surely we cannot know every nuance in the present situation that has left your Parliament feeling that it must ban all adoptions to the United States. I'm sure there are more factors at play here than anyone can understand. But I beg you, Mr. President, please do not close this door. Please do not take away the dream of a wonderful family for children in Russia and parents with empty arms in the United States. Please do not punish us all for the transgressions and mistakes of a few. There are many of us who are simply enchanted with your country, and plan to raise our children with the full knowledge of where they came from, and honor the traditions and culture of your country- we feel this is important for any child, no matter where they were born. In fact, we have already purchased books about Russia for the little girl we hope and pray will be our daughter, and are even trying to learn some Russian ourselves, so that we might honor the country that gave us the gift for which we have been praying so long. We also hope that, as she grows up, we might bring this little girl back to Russia to visit and see the great country where she spent the first part of her life.
We do not pretend to know your burden, Mr. President. The burden of making the right decision for your people. The burden of making the decision that is popular, and doesn't distance you from your fellow lawmakers. The great burden of making the decision that doesn't create great distance between your country and others. But just as others in your country do not share the same opinion as the lower house of Parliament, so too do not all Americans always share the same opinion with our legislators. However, we do know, Mr. President, that there are thousands of loving, caring, amazing families all over the United States whose dreams of having a family hang in the balance over this decision. I am sorry for the offense of the Magnitsky Act. But you must know, surely you must know, that this legislation does not reflect that attitudes of all Americans. And there must be some other way for Russia to express its deep dissatisfaction with this law without dashing the hopes and dreams of families just like us, and children just like Alissa - the little girl who we are so hopeful will be ours.
We have been in constant vigil, Mr. President, over this decision. Our prayers have been first for this little girl we hope will be our daughter, that she might know that half a world away is a family who is fighting so hard for her and is loving her every second of every day. We pray for all children in Russia waiting for a family. We pray for Russia's law makers, that their hearts might not be hardened against all Americans, and that they might find a more congruent way to express their frustration with the decisions of our legislature. And finally, Mr. President, we pray for you. For clarity of mind, for wisdom, for compassion, and for courage to do the right thing for every life involved in this decision.
Respectfully,
The Letschers
I cannot even begin to imagine the incredible challenge of being charged with leading an entire country of people. The weight of the enormity of your decisions must be a great burden to bear. It takes leaders with clarity of mind, great wisdom and broad vision to make great countries. It takes even greater leaders to bring countries together to work for a greater global society. You have been just such a leader, at many different opportunities. Today I beg you to be that leader once again.
When my husband and I met twelve years ago, we had both dedicated our lives to the service of children. My husband has more than 15 years of experience in ministry to teenagers and young adults. I have a college degree in elementary education, and have spent the last 8 years in ministry to children. Two years ago, after struggling for a very long time to have our own family, our doctors finally told us we were asking for a 'miracle.' It was going to be impossible for us to have our own children. As a father yourself, I'm sure you can understand how devastated we were. With heavy, yet hopeful hearts, we began the process of adopting a child from within the United States. After waiting a very long time with no progress, we once again became very discouraged. That's when we completely, and unexpectedly, had our hearts stolen by a little girl... in Russia.
Through a network of friends and agencies we learned about a little girl in your country who needs a forever family. Because of her special needs I'm sure many families shy away from considering calling her their own. We are not one of those families. I am not lying when I say that from the moment we heard about her we felt that she was meant for us, and we for her. We understand her special needs and are not afraid of them. Additionally, we are fortunate to have excellent heath care coverage that will cover all her needs as she grows up. In short, we feel that we can provide the kind of loving, caring, supportive home I am certain you desire for every Russian child.
Surely we cannot know every nuance in the present situation that has left your Parliament feeling that it must ban all adoptions to the United States. I'm sure there are more factors at play here than anyone can understand. But I beg you, Mr. President, please do not close this door. Please do not take away the dream of a wonderful family for children in Russia and parents with empty arms in the United States. Please do not punish us all for the transgressions and mistakes of a few. There are many of us who are simply enchanted with your country, and plan to raise our children with the full knowledge of where they came from, and honor the traditions and culture of your country- we feel this is important for any child, no matter where they were born. In fact, we have already purchased books about Russia for the little girl we hope and pray will be our daughter, and are even trying to learn some Russian ourselves, so that we might honor the country that gave us the gift for which we have been praying so long. We also hope that, as she grows up, we might bring this little girl back to Russia to visit and see the great country where she spent the first part of her life.
We do not pretend to know your burden, Mr. President. The burden of making the right decision for your people. The burden of making the decision that is popular, and doesn't distance you from your fellow lawmakers. The great burden of making the decision that doesn't create great distance between your country and others. But just as others in your country do not share the same opinion as the lower house of Parliament, so too do not all Americans always share the same opinion with our legislators. However, we do know, Mr. President, that there are thousands of loving, caring, amazing families all over the United States whose dreams of having a family hang in the balance over this decision. I am sorry for the offense of the Magnitsky Act. But you must know, surely you must know, that this legislation does not reflect that attitudes of all Americans. And there must be some other way for Russia to express its deep dissatisfaction with this law without dashing the hopes and dreams of families just like us, and children just like Alissa - the little girl who we are so hopeful will be ours.
We have been in constant vigil, Mr. President, over this decision. Our prayers have been first for this little girl we hope will be our daughter, that she might know that half a world away is a family who is fighting so hard for her and is loving her every second of every day. We pray for all children in Russia waiting for a family. We pray for Russia's law makers, that their hearts might not be hardened against all Americans, and that they might find a more congruent way to express their frustration with the decisions of our legislature. And finally, Mr. President, we pray for you. For clarity of mind, for wisdom, for compassion, and for courage to do the right thing for every life involved in this decision.
Respectfully,
The Letschers
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Not Good News
Well, I just read a Tweet from the New York Times that Russia has passed the first vote to ban adoptions to America. The law must still be passed by an upper house of legislature as well as the President. Read the article here: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/20/world/europe/russia-votes-to-ban-all-adoptions-by-americans.html?partner=rss&emc=rss&smid=tw-nytimes&_r=0
It is not too late to email our President, Senators and Congresspersons. It is also not too late to pray. We will be in fervent prayer for mercy from Russian political leaders, and wisdom for both governments as things proceed.
It is not too late to email our President, Senators and Congresspersons. It is also not too late to pray. We will be in fervent prayer for mercy from Russian political leaders, and wisdom for both governments as things proceed.
An Open Letter to all United States Legislators
Dear President Obama,
US Senators and Congresspersons:
I
am writing to alert you to an urgent concern regarding adoption. Congress
recently passed the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act and
President Obama signing into law on December 14, 2012.
In
response, Russia's legislature, is considering legislation this week that is
being referred to as the Dima Yakovlev Law, named after a Russian-born child
who died in the care of his adoptive parents. This law would ban from visiting
Russia anyone involved in the case of Dima Yakovlev or other Russian born
adopted children who died in the United States. What is of most urgent concern
is that a recent amendment to this law would also end Intercountry Adoption
between Russian and the United States. I believe it is absolutely important to
protect the rights of every child and there should be a measured response to
the death of each of these children. We mourn the loss of these Russian-born
children with the Russians as they were also dear to us as American children.
However, it is important to note that these children are a tiny minority. Many
thousands of Russian born children have been adopted and thrived in the love
and care of their American families. If intercountry adoption between Russia
and the United States were to close, many thousands of children would likely
languish in orphanages instead of finding their way to safe, loving, permanent
families in the United States.
Now,
let me tell you our story, we have tried desperately for years to have our own
family. Two years ago, after medications
and countless tests, our doctors told us we were “asking for a miracle.” We believe that miracle is a little girl in
Russia – and now we need to bring her home, to her family. If intercountry adoption between
Russia and the United States closes, our little girl, and thousands of other children
like her
will not be able to find their way to the many U.S. families willing and
waiting to call them their own.
Please, we beg you, contact President Putin of Russia and ask him not to
allow this amendment to become part of Russian law. U.S. diplomacy at this time
is essential to save the lives of many young Russians waiting for a family of
their own.
Respectfully,
The Letschers
Friday's Vote in Russian Parliament
Those of you I've run into today have asked me what's going on with the vote in Parliament on Friday. Here is the press release from the National Council For Adoption.
Russian Parliament Proposes Ban in Retaliation for the Magnitsky Act; International
Politicking Would Force Orphaned Children to Pay the Price
December 18, 2012 – Alexandria, VA – Legislation has been introduced in the Russian Parliament that would ban intercountry adoptions with the United States.
This radical amendment to the Dima Yakovlev Law was proposed as retaliation against U.S. passage of the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act, a bill that imposes sanctions against Russian officials perceived by the U.S. to be guilty of human rights violations in Russia. Among the sanctions is a prohibition on Russian criminals visiting the United States.
This threatened ban on intercountry adoption comes after years of discussion between Russia and the United States to address areas of needed reform, strengthen protections and increase accountability, and better serve adopted children and adoptive families. Recent negotiations resulted in a bilateral agreement between Russia and the U.S., which went into effect on November 1, 2012.
“Orphaned children could become collateral damage in this round of international politicking,” says Chuck Johnson, president and CEO of the National Council For Adoption. “The proposed Russian amendment is a punitive, excessive, and highly unfortunate reaction to a U.S. policy that has absolutely nothing to do with intercountry adoption. The opposition of some Russian politicians to the Magnitsky Act, which prevents Russian human rights violators from entering the U.S., should not threaten the possibility of adoption for orphaned and vulnerable Russian children. NCFA and other U.S. adoption advocates are pleading with Russian officials to do the right thing for the more than 700,000 children currently living in institutions in Russia who deserve loving families of their own.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin, while displeased with the Magnitsky Law, promised an “adequate and not excessive” response. “Banning intercountry adoption is excessive,” says Johnson. “Russian orphans are counting on their President to hear their voices.”
December 18, 2012 – Alexandria, VA – Legislation has been introduced in the Russian Parliament that would ban intercountry adoptions with the United States.
This radical amendment to the Dima Yakovlev Law was proposed as retaliation against U.S. passage of the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act, a bill that imposes sanctions against Russian officials perceived by the U.S. to be guilty of human rights violations in Russia. Among the sanctions is a prohibition on Russian criminals visiting the United States.
This threatened ban on intercountry adoption comes after years of discussion between Russia and the United States to address areas of needed reform, strengthen protections and increase accountability, and better serve adopted children and adoptive families. Recent negotiations resulted in a bilateral agreement between Russia and the U.S., which went into effect on November 1, 2012.
“Orphaned children could become collateral damage in this round of international politicking,” says Chuck Johnson, president and CEO of the National Council For Adoption. “The proposed Russian amendment is a punitive, excessive, and highly unfortunate reaction to a U.S. policy that has absolutely nothing to do with intercountry adoption. The opposition of some Russian politicians to the Magnitsky Act, which prevents Russian human rights violators from entering the U.S., should not threaten the possibility of adoption for orphaned and vulnerable Russian children. NCFA and other U.S. adoption advocates are pleading with Russian officials to do the right thing for the more than 700,000 children currently living in institutions in Russia who deserve loving families of their own.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin, while displeased with the Magnitsky Law, promised an “adequate and not excessive” response. “Banning intercountry adoption is excessive,” says Johnson. “Russian orphans are counting on their President to hear their voices.”
## #
While we have no interest in engaging in such politicking, we are very anxious about Friday's vote. We absolutely respect Parliament's right to do what they feel is in the best interest of their citizens, however we also deeply desire that they consider the children this will directly affect, especially our our little girl. Last night I emailed both Iowa Senators, all our Congressional Representatives for whom I was able to find an email form, and the President of the United States. I will post that email next, and, if you have time, I would ask that everyone please copy and forward it to their Congresspersons - and the President, too! The more voices they hear from, the better our chances at avoiding this cataclysmic disaster.
While we have no interest in engaging in such politicking, we are very anxious about Friday's vote. We absolutely respect Parliament's right to do what they feel is in the best interest of their citizens, however we also deeply desire that they consider the children this will directly affect, especially our our little girl. Last night I emailed both Iowa Senators, all our Congressional Representatives for whom I was able to find an email form, and the President of the United States. I will post that email next, and, if you have time, I would ask that everyone please copy and forward it to their Congresspersons - and the President, too! The more voices they hear from, the better our chances at avoiding this cataclysmic disaster.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Prayer Requests
Dearest friends, far and wide, we desperately need prayer tonight for three specific things:
1) For patience. Not simply the opportunity for patience, 'cause let's be honest, that's already here. But literally for a spirit of patience. This is so, so, so very hard. We are so ready for our family to be complete. We've been ready. And the uncertainty and lack of clarity are more heart-wrenching than I can adequately express. At times (like right now) it is physically painful. So, if we may be so bold, we ask that you pray a spirit of patience upon us, and upon all who are working so diligently to bring our jamaa into being.
2) For wisdom for the Russian Parliament. We received word today that in response to legislation that was passed here in the U. S., the Russian Parliament is seeking to ban all intercountry adoptions to the United States. They will vote this Friday, December 21st. There are 700,000 orphans in Russia waiting for their families - our Alissa is one of them, and we want her home. We understand that all governments must do what they feel is in the best interest of their people. But we also pray that while they make those decisions on behalf of their fellow citizens, they do so with the realization that we are all a part of a global society.
And finally,
3) For clarity on the requirements we must complete for our dossier, and that those requirements may be met without further hardship or difficulty.
I am humbled and amazed at the scope that our little blog has reached - we have readers all over the world! We feel so blessed to know that others are telling our story, and we are so grateful for your companionship on this journey that can be so very lonely. We will never be able to thank you enough for your prayers and positive thoughts. Believe me, they work.
1) For patience. Not simply the opportunity for patience, 'cause let's be honest, that's already here. But literally for a spirit of patience. This is so, so, so very hard. We are so ready for our family to be complete. We've been ready. And the uncertainty and lack of clarity are more heart-wrenching than I can adequately express. At times (like right now) it is physically painful. So, if we may be so bold, we ask that you pray a spirit of patience upon us, and upon all who are working so diligently to bring our jamaa into being.
2) For wisdom for the Russian Parliament. We received word today that in response to legislation that was passed here in the U. S., the Russian Parliament is seeking to ban all intercountry adoptions to the United States. They will vote this Friday, December 21st. There are 700,000 orphans in Russia waiting for their families - our Alissa is one of them, and we want her home. We understand that all governments must do what they feel is in the best interest of their people. But we also pray that while they make those decisions on behalf of their fellow citizens, they do so with the realization that we are all a part of a global society.
And finally,
3) For clarity on the requirements we must complete for our dossier, and that those requirements may be met without further hardship or difficulty.
I am humbled and amazed at the scope that our little blog has reached - we have readers all over the world! We feel so blessed to know that others are telling our story, and we are so grateful for your companionship on this journey that can be so very lonely. We will never be able to thank you enough for your prayers and positive thoughts. Believe me, they work.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
We Love Our Donors!
Words simply cannot express how thankful we are for the following individuals, families, and businesses. You all are our heroes, and we cannot ever thank you enough for your incredible generosity.
Chad Gammon
Teri and Kris Voyna
Sarah Wilson from Simply Sarah's Stuff (http://www.etsy.com/shop/Dremnstar)
Tom and Allyson Kendrick
Connie Purchase
Marcie Watson
Linda Hunt from Edge Salon (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Edge-salon-and-sun-spa/278851042150007)
Jason and Linda Hunt from Roscoe's Pizza (http://roscoespizza.com)
Heather Wagner from Heather Wagner Designs (https://www.facebook.com/heatherwagnerdesigns)
Abby Flores from Itsy Bitsy Bums (https://itsybitsybums.3dcartstores.com)
Kristin Hoffman Peavler
Mark Scheibe from Hitting the Mark Entertainment (www.hittingthemarkdj.com)
Maggie Campbell from Campbell Raw Press (www.brooklynbookbinder.com)
Wendy Jo Cox
Amber Hanford from A Cookie Family, (https://www.facebook.com/acookiefamily)
Tim Stolba
The Comfort Makers at First Lutheran Church
Nova Kolander
Dan Kolander
Paula Keesy from My Cousin Made It (https://www.facebook.com/mycousinmadeit)
Nick and Allie Lapointe, local Iowa recording artists
Richard Bruxvoort Colligan, from The River's Voice, local Iowa recording artist
The entire Kolander family
Marlene Johnson
Theatre Cedar Rapids (www.theatrecr.org)
Marie Rivers Rule
Ryan Koester from Wells Fargo Advisors
Sherrie Ilg with Pampered Chef
Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center (www.prairiewoods.org)
Noodles and Company, Cedar Rapids
David Drewelow from ActionCoach USA (www.actioncoach.com/daviddrewelow)
PetCo, Cedar Rapids
Starbucks, Cedar Rapids (1st Avenue and Collins Road)
Mary Kay Grodt
Panera, Cedar Rapids (Council St. and Collins Road)
If you would like to donate, we won't say "no!" To donate items for our silent auction, please email us: marissaletscher@gmail.com. If you would like to donate directly to the fund, please use our PayPal account link on the right, or you can send a check made to First Lutheran Church with "Letscher Adoption" in the memo line to: 1000 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.
Chad Gammon
Teri and Kris Voyna
Sarah Wilson from Simply Sarah's Stuff (http://www.etsy.com/shop/Dremnstar)
Tom and Allyson Kendrick
Connie Purchase
Marcie Watson
Linda Hunt from Edge Salon (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Edge-salon-and-sun-spa/278851042150007)
Jason and Linda Hunt from Roscoe's Pizza (http://roscoespizza.com)
Heather Wagner from Heather Wagner Designs (https://www.facebook.com/heatherwagnerdesigns)
Abby Flores from Itsy Bitsy Bums (https://itsybitsybums.3dcartstores.com)
Kristin Hoffman Peavler
Mark Scheibe from Hitting the Mark Entertainment (www.hittingthemarkdj.com)
Maggie Campbell from Campbell Raw Press (www.brooklynbookbinder.com)
Wendy Jo Cox
Amber Hanford from A Cookie Family, (https://www.facebook.com/acookiefamily)
Tim Stolba
The Comfort Makers at First Lutheran Church
Nova Kolander
Dan Kolander
Paula Keesy from My Cousin Made It (https://www.facebook.com/mycousinmadeit)
Nick and Allie Lapointe, local Iowa recording artists
Richard Bruxvoort Colligan, from The River's Voice, local Iowa recording artist
The entire Kolander family
Marlene Johnson
Theatre Cedar Rapids (www.theatrecr.org)
Marie Rivers Rule
Ryan Koester from Wells Fargo Advisors
Sherrie Ilg with Pampered Chef
Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center (www.prairiewoods.org)
Noodles and Company, Cedar Rapids
David Drewelow from ActionCoach USA (www.actioncoach.com/daviddrewelow)
PetCo, Cedar Rapids
Starbucks, Cedar Rapids (1st Avenue and Collins Road)
Mary Kay Grodt
Panera, Cedar Rapids (Council St. and Collins Road)
If you would like to donate, we won't say "no!" To donate items for our silent auction, please email us: marissaletscher@gmail.com. If you would like to donate directly to the fund, please use our PayPal account link on the right, or you can send a check made to First Lutheran Church with "Letscher Adoption" in the memo line to: 1000 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.
Good News!
I don't have much to report today, but there is one HUGE piece of good news. We recieved word late last night that the region our little girl is in WILL accept our home study with a few additions!!! This is fantastic news! I know many of you have been praying specifically about this and I just want to thank everyone for your constant prayers and positive thoughts. They are working! So keep it up, and I will continue to keep you posted on our progress.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Home
If you've never heard this song, you need to go to iTunes right now and buy it. It's fantastic. The lyrics have meant so much to us during all of this. I wish I could tell Mr. Phillips how this song has helped us keep pushing forward... for our little girl... for her home.
HOME
by Phillip Phillips
Hold on to me as we go.
As we roll down this unfamiliar road.
And although this wave is stringing us along,
Just know you're know alone.
'Cause I'm going to make this place your home.
Settle down, it'll all be clear.
Don't pay no mind to the demons,
They fill you with fear.
The trouble it might drag you down,
If you get lost, you can always be found.
Just know you're not alone,
'Cause I'm going to make this place your home.
HOME
by Phillip Phillips
Hold on to me as we go.
As we roll down this unfamiliar road.
And although this wave is stringing us along,
Just know you're know alone.
'Cause I'm going to make this place your home.
Settle down, it'll all be clear.
Don't pay no mind to the demons,
They fill you with fear.
The trouble it might drag you down,
If you get lost, you can always be found.
Just know you're not alone,
'Cause I'm going to make this place your home.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Wish You Were Here
Dear Baby girl,
In America, we have a humorous saying that is frequently scrawled across pictures of tropical vacation escapes, or scenic views along well-travelled highways; that saying is "Wish You Were Here!" That saying has taken on new meaning for your daddy and me, we wish you were here.
All the stores in town, our house, and even your bedroom have already been decorated for Christmas. Do you celebrate Christmas where you are? Have you ever seen or heard of Santa? Do you have a stocking hung somewhere with your name on it? Here you have all those things - things every child should have. We wish you were here.
Tomorrow your daddy and I are going to see the Nutcracker, a ballet written and choreographed in Russia! Have you ever heard the story of the Nutcracker? Do you know what a ballerina is? Have you ever heard music by Tchaikovsky? Next year we will take you to The Nutcracker, and you can dream of being a ballerina - if that's what you want. We wish you were here.
On Sunday we're going to celebrate your Grandpa's birthday. Do you celebrate your birthday in Russia? Have you ever had a birthday cake all your own? Or blown out birthday candles? Have you ever opened presents? Put a bow on your head after ripping it off a gift? We will do all of those things with you. We wish you were here.
In order to bring you home there is SO MUCH to be done. I wish you knew how many people already love you without ever having met you. Our family and friends are working so hard to help us bring you home.
I wish you knew how excited everyone is to greet you.
I wish you were here.
Love,
Mommy
In America, we have a humorous saying that is frequently scrawled across pictures of tropical vacation escapes, or scenic views along well-travelled highways; that saying is "Wish You Were Here!" That saying has taken on new meaning for your daddy and me, we wish you were here.
All the stores in town, our house, and even your bedroom have already been decorated for Christmas. Do you celebrate Christmas where you are? Have you ever seen or heard of Santa? Do you have a stocking hung somewhere with your name on it? Here you have all those things - things every child should have. We wish you were here.
Tomorrow your daddy and I are going to see the Nutcracker, a ballet written and choreographed in Russia! Have you ever heard the story of the Nutcracker? Do you know what a ballerina is? Have you ever heard music by Tchaikovsky? Next year we will take you to The Nutcracker, and you can dream of being a ballerina - if that's what you want. We wish you were here.
On Sunday we're going to celebrate your Grandpa's birthday. Do you celebrate your birthday in Russia? Have you ever had a birthday cake all your own? Or blown out birthday candles? Have you ever opened presents? Put a bow on your head after ripping it off a gift? We will do all of those things with you. We wish you were here.
In order to bring you home there is SO MUCH to be done. I wish you knew how many people already love you without ever having met you. Our family and friends are working so hard to help us bring you home.
I wish you knew how excited everyone is to greet you.
I wish you were here.
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Financing A Way Home
One of the reasons we didn't consider an international adoption from the get-go was the drastic increase in costs. As a cash-only household, we have been relying on a family loan to fund an adoption, and therefore we pursued a domestic adoption, which generally occur with much lower costs. That was, of course, until we heard about Alissa.
It's hard to describe to someone who may not have ever experienced this process, but we are absolutely convinced that this little girl is for us, and we are for her. Now we need to bring her home.
We were not anticipating a cost this large. Then again, we were not anticipating to have our hearts stolen! We feel that we are very much behind-the-ball, as we now need to work as quickly as we can to secure the funds to adopt her. Here is our financial picture as it looks today:
FEES:
Placing agency ................................ $33,000
Travel Expenses .............................. $10,150+
- Airfare: approx. $7000 ($1,000/person per trip, need 3 trips; plus $1,000 for Alissa's flight home)
- Accommodations: approx. $2,100 (staying in hostels with free breakfast)
1st trip) 5-7 days, stay in hostel 6 nights = $600
2nd trip) 5 days, stay in hostel 4 nights = $400
3rd trip) 10-11 days, stay in hostel 10 nights = $1,000
- Food: $1,150 (planning $25/person per day)
Post Placement Visits ...................... $800
Total Fees: $43,950
DISCOUNTS & LOANS:
Placing agency possible discount ..... $3,000
Placing agency possible loan ............ $7,500 (@ 3%/ 5 years)
Total Fees minus possible discounts and loans: $33,450
CASH ON HAND:
Family loan account .................... approx. $15,000 (this is a family loan we will need to repay)
BALANCE REMAINING: $18,450
We also learned this week that Stan will have to be away from work, unpaid, for our three trips to Russia. He does not earn vacation until March, and Paternity leave will be unpaid leave. This adds an additional expense of approximately $1,500.
OUR FUNDRAISING GOAL: $20,000
We have applied for a few grants, and we pray daily that God would provide in that way. However, we also realize that there is no guarantee that we'll be awarded those grants, as there are many people applying for those same funds.
If you feel called to help us bring our dream home from Russia, in any way, we will never be able to thank you enough. You can donate by simply clicking the "Help Bring Alissa Home!" button on the right side of every page of this blog. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you for helping us bring our little girl home.
We also appreciate any and every gift of prayer and positivity sent on our behalf. Our arms ache to hold our little girl on the other side of the world. We literally wait with baited breath as this situation unfolds. We have treasured and hold close every kind and caring word that you have said to us, and hope that, soon, we will be celebrating a long-awaited welcome home!
It's hard to describe to someone who may not have ever experienced this process, but we are absolutely convinced that this little girl is for us, and we are for her. Now we need to bring her home.
We were not anticipating a cost this large. Then again, we were not anticipating to have our hearts stolen! We feel that we are very much behind-the-ball, as we now need to work as quickly as we can to secure the funds to adopt her. Here is our financial picture as it looks today:
FEES:
Placing agency ................................ $33,000
Travel Expenses .............................. $10,150+
- Airfare: approx. $7000 ($1,000/person per trip, need 3 trips; plus $1,000 for Alissa's flight home)
- Accommodations: approx. $2,100 (staying in hostels with free breakfast)
1st trip) 5-7 days, stay in hostel 6 nights = $600
2nd trip) 5 days, stay in hostel 4 nights = $400
3rd trip) 10-11 days, stay in hostel 10 nights = $1,000
- Food: $1,150 (planning $25/person per day)
Post Placement Visits ...................... $800
Total Fees: $43,950
DISCOUNTS & LOANS:
Placing agency possible discount ..... $3,000
Placing agency possible loan ............ $7,500 (@ 3%/ 5 years)
Total Fees minus possible discounts and loans: $33,450
CASH ON HAND:
Family loan account .................... approx. $15,000 (this is a family loan we will need to repay)
BALANCE REMAINING: $18,450
We also learned this week that Stan will have to be away from work, unpaid, for our three trips to Russia. He does not earn vacation until March, and Paternity leave will be unpaid leave. This adds an additional expense of approximately $1,500.
OUR FUNDRAISING GOAL: $20,000
We have applied for a few grants, and we pray daily that God would provide in that way. However, we also realize that there is no guarantee that we'll be awarded those grants, as there are many people applying for those same funds.
If you feel called to help us bring our dream home from Russia, in any way, we will never be able to thank you enough. You can donate by simply clicking the "Help Bring Alissa Home!" button on the right side of every page of this blog. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you for helping us bring our little girl home.
We also appreciate any and every gift of prayer and positivity sent on our behalf. Our arms ache to hold our little girl on the other side of the world. We literally wait with baited breath as this situation unfolds. We have treasured and hold close every kind and caring word that you have said to us, and hope that, soon, we will be celebrating a long-awaited welcome home!
From Russia With Love
I've been told that when you're in the process of adopting, things can either move so slowly you might as well be watching paint dry, or so fast you might get whiplash. The latter happened to us last week.
After waiting since April of this year with an approved home study and absolutely no movement, we began to get frustrated and discouraged. On Monday, I met a man at our Rotary Club meeting who had been conversing with my dad (also a Rotary Club member) at their table, and he mentioned that he and his wife had adopted two children from an agency in the Chicago area. He gushed about this agency and how great their kids are. He gave me the name of his agency and his business card and I thanked him for the suggestion - never really putting much hope in now trying to connect to an additional agency and having anything come of it.
The next day, Tuesday, I thought I'd take a chance and email the person at the agency who was in charge of domestic adoptions - as we currently only have an approved domestic home study. First thing Wednesday morning I had an email in my inbox from the founder of the agency asking me to call - she had options! Immediately I picked up the phone and began the most encouraging conversation I've had in this entire process. She was amazing. And then she suggested something I never would have anticipated. Would we consider an international adoption? And would we be open to adopting a child who is HIV+?
Quite honestly we had sort of put away the idea of adopting internationally because of the tremendous cost - more than double what we were planning to pay for a domestic adoption with our agency in town. The thought of an international adoption had never really re-entered our minds. As we continued to talk, she told me about a little girl in Russia, desperately in need of a loving, accepting home. I don't think I'll ever be able to explain the overwhelming feeling I had in that moment. In that moment we felt only pure love and concern for this little girl, thousands of miles away, waiting for her parents. In a true out-of-body moment I heard myself say to the social worker, "I would have to check with my husband, but yes, I think we would definitely be interested!" We would?! Holy CRAP! We agreed that I would check with my husband about this new surprise, and get back in touch. In the meantime she would contact the placing agency and get more details and possibly some pictures.
Well, I called my husband. He didn't even hesitate. It was like, of course we would consider it - how could we not?! (My husband is awesome - by the way. I'll admit I have some pretty outlandish ideas every once in a while - but this was a doozy. He didn't even flinch. Ah-mazing.) The more we talked about it, the more the Spirit seemed to move in both of us, and the more we felt like we were being called to this little girl - that she was for us, and we were for her.
On Friday the placing agency sent us some pictures. Is it strange that someone half a world away can look just like you? She does. She looks just like me.
Now is the hard part. The part of finding the financial and logistical pathways to bringing her home. I know that not everyone can help in a financial way, so I will put our financial outline in another post. But everyone can PRAY. If, however, you are able to help support us, we invite you to check out this post and, as you are able and feel led to do so, you can contribute to our From Russia With Love fund. One hundred percent of the funds raised will go directly to our expenses, which we anticipate to be more than $46,000.
We are more excited than ever that this little girl has been placed in our path and in our hearts. We will be posting more when there is more to say, so stay tuned! And thanks, as always, for joining us as we travel this jamaa journey!
After waiting since April of this year with an approved home study and absolutely no movement, we began to get frustrated and discouraged. On Monday, I met a man at our Rotary Club meeting who had been conversing with my dad (also a Rotary Club member) at their table, and he mentioned that he and his wife had adopted two children from an agency in the Chicago area. He gushed about this agency and how great their kids are. He gave me the name of his agency and his business card and I thanked him for the suggestion - never really putting much hope in now trying to connect to an additional agency and having anything come of it.
The next day, Tuesday, I thought I'd take a chance and email the person at the agency who was in charge of domestic adoptions - as we currently only have an approved domestic home study. First thing Wednesday morning I had an email in my inbox from the founder of the agency asking me to call - she had options! Immediately I picked up the phone and began the most encouraging conversation I've had in this entire process. She was amazing. And then she suggested something I never would have anticipated. Would we consider an international adoption? And would we be open to adopting a child who is HIV+?
Quite honestly we had sort of put away the idea of adopting internationally because of the tremendous cost - more than double what we were planning to pay for a domestic adoption with our agency in town. The thought of an international adoption had never really re-entered our minds. As we continued to talk, she told me about a little girl in Russia, desperately in need of a loving, accepting home. I don't think I'll ever be able to explain the overwhelming feeling I had in that moment. In that moment we felt only pure love and concern for this little girl, thousands of miles away, waiting for her parents. In a true out-of-body moment I heard myself say to the social worker, "I would have to check with my husband, but yes, I think we would definitely be interested!" We would?! Holy CRAP! We agreed that I would check with my husband about this new surprise, and get back in touch. In the meantime she would contact the placing agency and get more details and possibly some pictures.
Well, I called my husband. He didn't even hesitate. It was like, of course we would consider it - how could we not?! (My husband is awesome - by the way. I'll admit I have some pretty outlandish ideas every once in a while - but this was a doozy. He didn't even flinch. Ah-mazing.) The more we talked about it, the more the Spirit seemed to move in both of us, and the more we felt like we were being called to this little girl - that she was for us, and we were for her.
On Friday the placing agency sent us some pictures. Is it strange that someone half a world away can look just like you? She does. She looks just like me.
Now is the hard part. The part of finding the financial and logistical pathways to bringing her home. I know that not everyone can help in a financial way, so I will put our financial outline in another post. But everyone can PRAY. If, however, you are able to help support us, we invite you to check out this post and, as you are able and feel led to do so, you can contribute to our From Russia With Love fund. One hundred percent of the funds raised will go directly to our expenses, which we anticipate to be more than $46,000.
We are more excited than ever that this little girl has been placed in our path and in our hearts. We will be posting more when there is more to say, so stay tuned! And thanks, as always, for joining us as we travel this jamaa journey!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Valentine's Day Luck?
I know, I know. I've been horribly negligent in actually keeping this thing updated. So! Here's where we are:
We completed our MMPI (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory) testing and review. Turns out we're not crazy. Just crazy enough! Actually, I'm so impressed (and a little creeped out!) at how accurate these kinds of test are - when you're HONEST with the test! The analysis that was done by the agency's psychologist was really thorough - and correct. We both had great conversations with our social worker and have felt so, so positive about this whole experience. Our social worker is really outsanding. She's knowledgable, professional, approachable and is so easy to talk to. We've be thoroughly impressed.
Our Home Visit is today! Wahoo! We've been working really hard in the baby's room, buying furniture (and assembling it - thanks IKEA!), buying artwork and other wall decorations and all manner of baby-preparation-type things. That sounds odd. Anyway, I really have no idea what to expect this afternoon, but I promise to actually update this blog after our appointment this afternoon.
As always, thank you all for your support! Your prayers and well-wishes are so encouraging. This has been a difficult journey, and I simply cannot express to you how your coming alongside of us has made all the difference in the world. We love and cherish you all!
We completed our MMPI (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory) testing and review. Turns out we're not crazy. Just crazy enough! Actually, I'm so impressed (and a little creeped out!) at how accurate these kinds of test are - when you're HONEST with the test! The analysis that was done by the agency's psychologist was really thorough - and correct. We both had great conversations with our social worker and have felt so, so positive about this whole experience. Our social worker is really outsanding. She's knowledgable, professional, approachable and is so easy to talk to. We've be thoroughly impressed.
Our Home Visit is today! Wahoo! We've been working really hard in the baby's room, buying furniture (and assembling it - thanks IKEA!), buying artwork and other wall decorations and all manner of baby-preparation-type things. That sounds odd. Anyway, I really have no idea what to expect this afternoon, but I promise to actually update this blog after our appointment this afternoon.
As always, thank you all for your support! Your prayers and well-wishes are so encouraging. This has been a difficult journey, and I simply cannot express to you how your coming alongside of us has made all the difference in the world. We love and cherish you all!
Dear Birth Parent(s)
Dear birth parent(s),
My goodness, where to begin? Perhaps with a little story.
Thirty-two years ago a birth mother and birth father made a most difficult, and yet most loving, decision to allow their baby girl to be called “daughter” by a wonderful man and woman. This new, adoptive mother and father have loved that baby girl with everything they have. As she grew up she always knew how two people had made an incredible sacrifice so that she could have the kind of life they dreamed for her. She also grew to be deeply thankful, for the birth parents who made a brave choice for her, and for the family into which she was placed, that shaped her into the woman she is today.
About the same time a young man was growing up in his family, with his mother, father, sister, and two brothers, one biological, and one adopted. He, too, grew-up understanding how much love families have to share, and what a wonderful gift it is to be able to share that love with a child who needs a family.
Twelve years ago, on a beautiful, shimmering summer afternoon, this man and woman met and fell deeply in love. They had so much in common: they both worked with children and teens, loved to watch movies, play games, hike, travel and all kinds of other things. They dated for several years before marrying and couldn’t wait to start a family, though they knew it would be while since the woman was in graduate school and their tiny, 500 square foot, Los Angeles apartment was barely big enough for the two of them! When life became more settled for the couple they tried to start a family. They endured years of heartache and pain from not conceiving on their own. They will never forget the day their doctors told them they were asking for a miracle to have their own family. That was a very dark day. Finally, with the loving support of family and friends, they gave up all the medical testing, the medicines and tears, and chose to pursue their God-given family through adoption.
That brings us to today, to you, and to us. We cannot even begin to imagine how you must be feeling at this moment. Scared? Lonely? Afraid? Overwhelmed? Yet, we hope you also know just what an amazing thing you are doing. YOU could be our ‘miracle’ - the one we couldn’t have on our own, and yet so deeply yearn for in the most tender places of our hearts. I am certain this cannot be easy for you – as I’m sure it wasn’t for the woman who gave birth to me. And while I do not know her name, and never got to tell her thank you for the incredible miracle she gave to my parents, we can, and do, thank you for the selflessness you have shown by taking this step toward adoption.
We look forward to meeting you – our miracle-worker!
With love and admiration,
Stan and Marissa
My goodness, where to begin? Perhaps with a little story.
Thirty-two years ago a birth mother and birth father made a most difficult, and yet most loving, decision to allow their baby girl to be called “daughter” by a wonderful man and woman. This new, adoptive mother and father have loved that baby girl with everything they have. As she grew up she always knew how two people had made an incredible sacrifice so that she could have the kind of life they dreamed for her. She also grew to be deeply thankful, for the birth parents who made a brave choice for her, and for the family into which she was placed, that shaped her into the woman she is today.
About the same time a young man was growing up in his family, with his mother, father, sister, and two brothers, one biological, and one adopted. He, too, grew-up understanding how much love families have to share, and what a wonderful gift it is to be able to share that love with a child who needs a family.
Twelve years ago, on a beautiful, shimmering summer afternoon, this man and woman met and fell deeply in love. They had so much in common: they both worked with children and teens, loved to watch movies, play games, hike, travel and all kinds of other things. They dated for several years before marrying and couldn’t wait to start a family, though they knew it would be while since the woman was in graduate school and their tiny, 500 square foot, Los Angeles apartment was barely big enough for the two of them! When life became more settled for the couple they tried to start a family. They endured years of heartache and pain from not conceiving on their own. They will never forget the day their doctors told them they were asking for a miracle to have their own family. That was a very dark day. Finally, with the loving support of family and friends, they gave up all the medical testing, the medicines and tears, and chose to pursue their God-given family through adoption.
That brings us to today, to you, and to us. We cannot even begin to imagine how you must be feeling at this moment. Scared? Lonely? Afraid? Overwhelmed? Yet, we hope you also know just what an amazing thing you are doing. YOU could be our ‘miracle’ - the one we couldn’t have on our own, and yet so deeply yearn for in the most tender places of our hearts. I am certain this cannot be easy for you – as I’m sure it wasn’t for the woman who gave birth to me. And while I do not know her name, and never got to tell her thank you for the incredible miracle she gave to my parents, we can, and do, thank you for the selflessness you have shown by taking this step toward adoption.
We look forward to meeting you – our miracle-worker!
With love and admiration,
Stan and Marissa
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