Debbie's Reality

2015-12-11T13:17:00.000-04:00

Friday Musings

11 December 2015

Here it is. Two weeks before Christmas here in Canada.

House work to complete and even start.

Baking to start and finish.

Tree to purchase, set up and light up.

Gifts to wrap. Some to purchase.

I think it's the sweeping and washing of floors, the dusting and the tidying I am wishing were done by little elves when I am asleep. But, I am my only elf, and the work will be done before Christmas day.

Oh, we need to buy a turkey with the fixings.

Duties and commitments. The routine changes over the holiday. I am looking forward to the break from our usual routine. I don't know if I am ready for the Christmas routine that has evolved over the years.

I'm still putting lights up outside. It's been frustrating because I don't have the outdoor cords I need to connect the lights.

I do have a little 3-footer all decorated with one string of lights and no cord yet. It's ready to go, though.

Laundry is in the washing machine. It needs to be put into the dryer. No other elf for that job except me.

I can't find my glue guns to create a decorated teardrop hanging for over the door. The supplies are on the counter waiting for that elf again.

A fly just sauntered by me and disappeared. A fly!

One parcel sent out west with lots and lots of tape on it to make it challenging to open. Oh, how we love our little brothers.

I just saw a spider scramble into my papers here on the desk. Maybe the fly was a spider. Or, maybe the spider is chasing the fly. Sounds like a ditty to me. Or, was that the dish who ran away with the spoon?

Things will get done. They always do.

Life is good mostly.

I get concerned about children and families in crisis. I am worried about children without families. I wish everyone could have people in their lives who accept them as they are in god's image and who love them into wholeness.

I think Jean Vanier has it right. We create community with each other as we share our lives with each other; as we accept each other's abilities and talents. Let us love and be kind to one another.

My elf ears are telling me I must get busy. I must make the noise that comes with cleaning and tidying and dusting.

See you again. And, google Jean Vanier. Find out more about what he says about people together in community.

Wednesday Musings

2013-11-06T12:20:00.000-04:00

Walk around my country block. 40 minutes.

Walk around another country block. 30 minutes.

Remembrance Assembly at school.

Remembering past Remembrance Days.

Slow cooker Lamb Chops stew. Prepared and on.

Quiet. Sunny. Clear. Fresh.

Life a continuum of being. In the being is change. In the change is being.

Life full of news. Personally. Locally. Nationally. Globally.

National politics. Local crime.

Good news stories in amongst the rabble and rubble.
Digging is good for the soul.

Good for the morale.

Slugs and Sunshine

2013-06-15T08:53:00.000-03:00

Beautiful day for a walk.
Beautiful morning for a walk.
6:50 am.

The sun is shining brightly.

The slugs are transmigrating. Lots of them on one part of the road.

The sun was beautiful through the trees. Not much traffic. I walk on a secondary, quieter road through the village.

Little Bird Library on my way is opened any time of the day or night.

All's quiet here in this peaceful place.

Potholes, potholes, potholes. Soon to be gone though.

Boot Island lays there sunning herself. Seventy years ago a family lived on that island. Babies were born there. They farmed the land. It used to be attached to the mainland but the tides washed over the land so that at high tide, she became an island. They moved off the land as a result.

Newly paved. Nice for walking. Looking towards Hortonville and Grand Pre.

Maple seeds. Waiting.

Looking at part of the village.

Shadows on the way home.

Cat drinking at puddle before darting away.

View on the way home.

Looking across to North Grand Pre.

Home stretch.

My little garden. Well saturated with all the rain we've been getting this past week.

Pumpkin patch in the back where the stakes are planted.

Beautiful Saturday.

Sunny.

Filled with hope and sunshine.

Have a wonderful day.

Flippin' My Friday

2013-06-14T18:52:00.000-03:00

Fridays come and Fridays go. Already it's supper time here. After 6 pm.

We had a usual day. School for child. Work for dh.

And then me.

I chauffeured child to school. Missed the bus. Child is ready for summer vacation.

I took my 60+ minute walkabout through three little villages.

I changed the bed linens on two beds. Tidied up the kitchen which means I washed dishes and put them away, and emptied out the dishwasher.

I rested a little as I haven't been feeling quite up to snuff this week. I don't know if it's the weather being so bloomin' dreary and drizzly and grey all week, or what.

I took a look at my little vegetable garden in between the rain this week. I am so excited to see progress. Too much rain is not good. Seeds and transplants need the sun, too.

I entertained a guest this afternoon around the time child got home from school. It is always nice to connect after long periods of not.

Ordinary day. Yes.

Even boring and dull.

But,

I know that there are children in the world who brighten up my day and who are lights in this dreary world.

They are the children and adults at Kalinovka orphanage in Ukraine. I think of them everyday and I think of the people I've come to know through the internet who are making a difference in their lives.

I mention again Maya's Hope and Reece's Rainbow. Lights in the darkness. I have come to realize that Happy Child Foundation in Ukraine also is another light in their lives.

There are umpteen individuals who make it their goal to visit the orphanages in Ukraine to offer assistance through their presence to these children. I like to call this Presence Theology. God present. Being like God to the children and adults who live and work at the orphanage.

Others who advocate for them in their own countries both in North America and Europe.

Lights all!!!

God love them all!!!

I know that when I see these children's faces (and the youth and adults, too), I see the face of God. Every one of them has God in them. Everyone of them!!! When I see them, I know I am experiencing something of the love of God and the presence of God.

They are lights to me lighting my path and my life and making it a bit better simply because God has made herself known through them, and has chosen to show me. God is present in each and everyone of them.

On dreary Fridays and any other day of the week, let us be happy people when we realize that those with good and loving hearts live in this world with us. Those who need us and those who respond to the need are God being present with us. Loving hearts. Good hearts one and all.

Happy weekend everyone!!!

May your souls be rocked and blessed as you experience God in the ordinary and in the unexpected because it's so very ordinary.

Do you see God? I do.

Thirsting for Justice

2013-05-29T22:14:00.000-03:00

I wrote this one on 25 April 2013. I had to put it in draft because I didn't know what else to say. I decided that I couldn't say any more. Here are my thoughts from that day.

I must admit that I have shed tears over the last two or three weeks whenever I think of the children who are abandoned, neglected, abused, left as orphans.

We're told to look after the widow and the orphan (James 1:27) and to keep ourselves from being polluted by the world in the process.

I suppose we could become corrupted and skewed in this work of looking after the widow and the orphan. It is not a work for the faint hearted. It is difficult work and hard work. It takes dedication and commitment. It takes your energy and your time along with your money and your possessions.

In the process you learn a little about self sacrifice; about sharing; about what is important; about what really counts to make it all worth it.

I think the thing for me is that to love and to be loved are indeed the greatest things I will experience while I live here on earth. We get one kick at the can and it's got to be a good kick; a good dose of loving and of being loved.

My heart has ached when I see the pictures and get an impression of the circumstances of the children and youth.

I saw quite by accident and quite randomly today a video of a documentary about the Children of Leningradsky - Part 1/3 HQ who live at the train station in Moscow. I cried again.

Children of Leningradsky - Part 1/3 HQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfXyMLUshX4

I can not believe a community of people would allow this neglect and abuse to be so rampant in their very midst. I shook my head and cried at the thought of the way these children survive in a world that ignores them and hates them for being who they are. Yet they are who they are because of their community, their nation. I hung my head and cried.

Windy Wednesday

2013-05-29T22:10:00.002-03:00

A beautiful day!

Sunny!

Bright!

A day worth living!

Corn is beginning to push itself out of the ground.

The animals are being born and enjoying new life.

Flowers are in bloom.

Life goes on.

Yet, on this beautiful day, here in my secure place in my country, I think about the children and youth who struggle to live. They struggle to survive within oppressive systems that see them as disposable and less than human.

I sit here. Words nearly escape me when I think of the countless faces I have seen.

Oppressive systems that adults continue to maintain that take away their youth. Children and youth are dying in these institutions. I wonder how long is it going to continue. How long are the people of the world going to abuse their life blood. How long is it going to take before they realize that children are our hope and our sustenance.

All children are precious!! When are we going to see that we have much to learn from them. When are the adults of the world going to figure out that everyone is indeed a gem worthy of love and care and all those things that make us fully human, fully loved.

Children need love. Young people need love. They need people who care about them and who want them to be happy, healthy and loved.

On this bright, beautiful, sunny Canadian spring day, I look at the beauty and I see all those faces of all of those children who in the beauty of our world look for their own beauty. They yearn for their own fulfillment. They hope for their own springtime so that they, too, can grow and blossom from the love they receive.

We need to tend to them as gardeners and farmers tend to their flowers and vegetables, with love, patience and perseverance.

When we treat all of our children with a sense of justice and love, then we as a community and we as a nation of people will reap the rewards of caring for the least of these, our people.

We will know how great we are when we look into the faces of the children and youth we care for and whom we actively love into their full potential.

http://tosavea-life.blogspot.ca/2013/05/dear-della.html

www.reecesrainbow.com

www.mayashope.org

www.chalice.ca/

and many, many others who work on behalf of children in need.

Let's take the time to love our children. To really show our children how much they truly are worth. For they truly are the priceless gems in our gardens.

Dandelions and Daily Living

2013-05-23T17:21:00.001-03:00

Life sometimes feels like it is unchanging. Yet, all around me is life - new life. The trees are leafing up. The flowers and vegetables are beginning to come up through the ground.

And, yes, the dandelions are back!

Our lawn was full of them today.

How I love them!

They're bright.

They're yellow.

They're beautiful.

I just love them.

And, our resident Ms Sophie the cat enjoyed the outdoors, too.

It was almost like she was posing for me as I clicked away on the camera.

Life - always changing.

Always open for hope.

It is hope that I have today for the children and youth living in orphanages around the world.

Hope that their countries will realize their full value and will take the steps to ensure their safety and security and good health.

Hope that they will be loved by parents and siblings.

Hope that it will all work out for them.

Hope that it will begin right now wherever they are and that their situations will improve right now. And that they will know real love and concern. And that they will be able to own it. Own the hope. Own the love. Own the belonging that family provides.

Hope in today's changing world.

I think the dandelions brought it to me this day.

Friday Frolics

2013-05-17T20:45:00.000-03:00

What a week! What a day! Rain or no rain! Damp or dry! It switched between the two all week. But I managed to walk each and every day as I have for the last several months.

I have to tell you. I think I saw Gawd.

Yes. I said Gawd (I prefer to spell it this way, thank you.)

I've been doing a couple of fundraisers for two organizations close to my heart. One involves selling items on a virtual yard sale website.

I had a lady come to pick up her $5 round Toy Story themed chair. It's a great little chair for preschoolers and toddlers. My own girl, though, hardly ever sat in it in the three years she owned it. She got too tall and lanky for it. But she loved it because of Buzz and Woody and all their friends.

The lady picks it up. We chat for 20 seconds and she said, "Here, I want you to take this $10."

I said, "I don't feel comfortable taking more than what I asked for it."

She proceeded to tell me that she appreciated the fact that I had this chair and was selling it to her. She had looked for it as a gift to her son but to no avail.

I said okay then even though I hesitated. I didn't want to take money from her that I didn't feel that I had earned.

Without hesitation, she gave me a hug and left.

I thought, "Wow! from a perfect stranger indeed!"

I thought about it since it happened in the early afternoon, and for sure I saw the face of Gawd in this woman.

And this reminded me in the last few minutes that every time my own child says to me, "Mom Kist me." And I do. I kiss the sweet cheek and sometimes the other. I'm experiencing Gawd again.

Gawd delights me. Gawd makes me happy. Gawd knows how to make me feel good inside.

So thank you to this stranger who really isn't a stranger anymore, and to my precious little child for allowing me to see the face of Gawd in them this very day.

Hallelujah! and Amen!!! I love how Gawd communicates with me.

Happy Victoria Day weekend to you all. I hope Gawd reveals herself to you in a most gentle, loving, amusing way.

Just Say YES!!! to Brett!!!

2013-05-06T16:33:00.000-03:00

Today's Monday.

It's sunny and breezy warm. A great day to be in the garden.

We - and I say that somewhat lightly as I am the one doing all the manual labour - plan to grow sunflowers, and I have also been transplanting lupines along the fence. The fence is 78 feet long and it has full sun light all day. I look forward to the transformation!!! I look forward to the results of my hard work.

When I started this project late last week. I worked on the part you see in the picture. I got about 10 feet done.

In the end I stopped because I couldn't hold back the tears as I thought about all the children who are in orphanages and mental institutions because of special needs or because they were not wanted by their parents.

I cried so much I had to leave the gardening for another day. I did go back to it on another day, and again as I turned and twisted the earth to get the weeds and the grass out, I thought about the children.

The hundreds of thousands, the millions - I can barely imagine that number. It astounds me. It frightens me - who are left abandoned in these institutions mostly because of some disability; namely because of Down Syndrome.

I want to tell you about a young man. He's 11 years old and he was abandoned by his mom on the very day he was born on 23 August 2001. He was left in a field to die. He laid there for hours before he was found by someone who rescued him. By that time, he was covered in bug bites, hypothermic , unresponsive, and in shock. He had a very tough start to life and he survived.

At the age of three, however, he was placed in an adult mental institution. Think about it. From a baby orphanage to an adult mental institution at the age of three!!!

He lives there every day, 24 hours a day seven days a week 52 weeks a year because he has no one who has stepped up to say, "I'll take him and make him my son."

The child needs a family. He needs a mom and a dad, sisters and brothers who love him and the whole gamete of aunts and uncles, cousins and grandparents who will show him what it is to BE LOVED. Then, I know he will love you back in return. So unconditionally. So purely. So freely.

He wants and needs a family.

Here he is. His profile name is Brett. He is from eastern Europe and lives in difficult circumstances where he receives no formal education, no mama's hugs and kisses, no father's warmth or concern with just barely enough to eat and where he owns absolutely nothing.

This is a recent picture of Brett. He also has alopecia, which is why he lost his hair. But it is treatable. My own child has it. It is more common in people with Down Syndrome than with others. Stress sometimes brings it on. I look forward to when his hair grows back.

This a picture of Brett when he was younger.

He is ready for the experience of a lifetime. He is ready for a real family who will show him what it means to be part of something wonderful, something beautiful, something brighter than what he has now.

He looks for you to come for him.

Know that you will not be alone in the costs associated with getting him home. People will encourage you by helping you with your fundraising. People will be praying for you and for him. People will be silently cheering you on as you take this step of faith to become his parent(s), his family. People will shout from the skies when you say YES! to Brett.

Give him careful, heartfelt consideration. He's worth every ounce of energy and cost you will incur. You will have something extraordinary in your life for the rest of your life when you say Yes to Brett.

You want to know God, get to know Brett. Then you will be able to say that you've met God. For he is made in the beautiful, perfect image of God. He waits for you. Go get him. You will never regret the decision.

Just say YES to Brett!!!

Here's another blog about Brett. A lot of people care about him and think about him, maybe even when they do their gardening, too.

http://crazy-arewethereyet.blogspot.ca/2013/05/nobodys-child.html

Doin' a Jig and Rejoicin'

2013-04-27T21:19:00.000-03:00

I was so very happy on Thursday night and Friday morning. Children I've been following on Reece's Rainbow had grant increases. My heart soared and my spirits picked up immensely.

Here are three of them:

Natalija L60

Girl, Born on March 16, 2001

This blue-eyed, blonde-haired beauty needs a loving family to thrive in! Natalija is described as active and friendly. She doesn’t like to be told “no” or be reprimanded, and cries as a result (aaahh, girls!). Natalija likes to play games with her peers, even if she doesn’t quite understand the rules. She is friendly and responsive, and is very loving towards her caregivers and friends. she is very good at playing independently and focusing on the task in front of her. She is stubborn sometimes, but I have found that this is a common trait of children with Down syndrome! Natalija does have a few words and basic self-service skills. She can dress and undress without help, and also eats and drinks unassisted.

Older parents, larger families, and single moms welcome.

Emil

Born December 1999
Diagnosis: cerebral palsy and down syndrome
From someone who met him in 2012:
Emil was the gentlest child ever! Unable to talk but the pleading in his eyes killed me! He grabbed my finger and wouldn’t let go…what a grip! He also got really hit a few times by others wanting my attention, he didn’t retaliate but fell in a heap and moved away, only to return when the coast was clear. I would love to see this child in a nurturing environment!

$3883.50 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

and

Katrina

Girl, Born December 2001
Oh what a miracle, to have an updated photo of Katrina!!!    And there is the light I knew had to be there!   She doesn’t realize it, but now that she has a profile here on Reece’s Rainbow, Katrina has a CHANCE…a chance for a new life, a family of her own, to get out of these four walls and to have something to smile about.
From her medical records:  Down syndrome, significant cognitive delay (coupled with FAS), flatfoot, partial atrophy of optic nerves, esotropia, secondary cardiomyopathy.
From a missionary who visited with her in March 2012: Oh my heart…I so wanted to bring her home!   She is a giggly soft hearted darling…she needs a mama!
Katrina and Tania can be adopted together if a family is approved and interested.   Families should be HS approved (or close to it) prior to commitment.   10 day wait often waived here. Married couples only, larger families welcome, travel required.

$5023.30 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

My heart soared. I was so happy to see this.

These are three children who need a loving family who care about them and love them. They need to know a family's love and concern. My heart melts every time I see their lovely faces. I so wish I could do more for them.

Instead I write on this little unknown blog hoping someone somewhere will see and understand and help.

My eyes are watering right now as I put this little write-up together. The needs of these children are truly great, and yet the gesture of donating to their fund or even taking steps to adopt them would be a God send for these children.

I hope that for all the tears I shed, that something good will rise out of the soil of these lives so that they may grow and bloom. A family's love would allow that to happen.

So, in my thoughts and in my prayers I remember sweet Natalija, Emil and Katrina along with all the other boys and girls, named and unnamed, who need us to care for and love them regardless of geography, distance, time, space.

Love them I will. For they are God's children to be loved and to love. I hope families will step forward and say, "That's my child. Let's go get him or her."

May God bless all the dear children tonight as they sleep or are awake. May they be protected from evil and injustice. May the God of love surround them and be with them in their suffering and in their yearning for people who truly care about them.

I pray it will be well with their little souls.

Thirsting for Justice

2013-04-25T22:17:00.001-03:00

I must admit that I have shed tears over the last two or three weeks whenever I think of the children who are abandoned, neglected, abused, left as orphans.

We're told to look after the widow and the orphan (James 1:27) and to keep ourselves from being polluted by the world in the process.

I suppose we could become corrupted and skewed in this work of looking after the widow and the orphan. It is not a work for the faint hearted. It is difficult work and hard work. It takes dedication and commitment. It takes your energy and your time along with your money and your possessions.

In the process you learn a little about self sacrifice; about sharing; about what is important; about what really counts to make it all worth it.

I think the thing for me is that to love and to be loved are indeed the greatest things I will experience while I live here on earth. We get one kick at the can and it's got to be a good kick; a good dose of loving and of being loved.

My heart has ached when I see the pictures and get an impression of the circumstances of the children and youth.

I saw quite by accident and quite randomly today a video of a documentary about the Children of Leningradsky - Part 1/3 HQ who live at the train station in Moscow. I cried again.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfXyMLUshX4

I cannot believe a community of people would allow this neglect and abuse to be so rampant in their very midst. I shook my head and cried at the thought of the way these children survive in a world that ignores them and hates them for being who they are. Yet they are who they are because of their community, their nation. I hung my head and cried.

So, once I get over my tears that come unannounced on some days, I will do what I can to help someone somewhere to know better circumstances and to know that people cared for them and genuinely loved them; and wished them well.

A small drop in the bucket when I realize that on YouTube you can access just about any video of orphaned children from anywhere in the world. The task of social justice is a big one.

But it only takes one to change the world. It only takes one to make a difference. Are you that one????

Happy Thursday!

Trying for Tuesday

2013-04-09T12:24:00.000-03:00

I get so frustrated when I see children who are neglected and suffering from the lack of love and care.

My heart cries and cracks under the strain of the neglect. My heart cries out for justice and for these children who need to be rescued and cared for by loving people.

I can barely believe I am using the word 'rescued'. Rescuing children! We rescue cats and dogs, horses and wild animals. Now, children need to be rescued.

They need to be saved from ultimate death due to neglect and abuse. I am so sickened by this reality in the lives of thousands of children throughout the world. Maybe it is millions of children around the world. I have a feeling it could be. But my mind can barely grasp that there is even one child who suffers from any kind of neglect and abuse at the hands of care givers and administrators and people!!!

Here's a group of children who need you. They need to know that there is a different kind of normal; a better kind of normal.

These are some of the kids at Orphanage 50. Take a look at the website and see the other children who need help. They need care and attention. They need families who love them and take responsibility for their well being. THEY NEED HELP!!!

http://reecesrainbow.org/category/waitingbycountry/ee-1/orphanage-50

Casey

Born June 1997
Cerebral palsy, significant mental delays, seborrheic dermatitis

Casey is very sweet. He is bedridden, yet full of smiles. He desperately needs a family to save him.
Travel required; married couples only. Large families welcome.

$1745.30 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Caesar

Boy, born 1999
Multiple congenital malformations, Cornelia de Lange syndrome, severe mental delays, congenital pseudarthrosis right clavicle, congenital partial atrophy of the nerves of both eyes, capitate hypospadias, hypotrophy of the 2nd stage of mixed origin

$20.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Katrina

$2361.30 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Tania (50)

Girl, born August 2002.

She is said to be independant and active, and she especially loves to swing. She is shy with other children, and seeks attention from adults, cuddling up when hugs and affection are available.

From her medical records: Down syndrome, esotropia, flatfoot, secondary cardiomyopathy.

From a missionary who visited with her in March 2012: One time the care giver made her sit with other children she was so desperate for me all to herself shecried! she really didnt want to share me. This is seriously one child who wants a Mama! She seemed so bright, there is so much potential here being wasted. She whacked the other children to keep them away from me but I could tell she was not an aggressive child. Tania is fiesty and able and just desperate for love! I loved her!!! I wanted to bring her and Katarina home. Tania is always active and she loves playing with her swing set, unlike the other kids who rather just play with their toys. The child is a bit shy around the children of her age. However, she is very brave and courageous when dealing with new visitors. The girl suffers from a lack of motherly care and gentleness, so she is attracted to everyone who is nice and kind to her. She hides her lonely soul behind the wall of her active and independent lifestyle. But as soon as she receives a warm hug and a little love, the mischievous girl suddenly becomes docile and calm.

Larger families, older parents welcome. Travel required. This region does often waive the 10-day waiting period!

$3587.45 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Bobby

Boy, Born February 2004
Oh, Bobby is growing up so fast….but alone BOBBY NEEDS OUT!    Watch a short video here: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151205374969862
Diagnosis: cerebral palsy, mental delay, secondary cardiopathy,  was born with partial optic atrophy of both eyes, bronchopulmonary dysplasia.   Unable to walk.
We have had several successful adoptions from this institution, and this region often waives the 10 day waiting period. Married couples only, no family size or parent age restrictions.   Families should be HS approved (or nearly so) prior to committing for Bobby.
From a missionary who visited with him in September 2012:    “Today I was in our local central hospital.   Bobby is there now, because he has anemia.   At the orphanage he eats just semolina porridge, no wonder that he has problems with his blood.   The nurse, who spent 8 days with him, says, that she tried to give him other food too. But firstly he didn’t want to have something other, just his white porrige. She put some rice in his porrigde and he tried to throw it away with the napkin. But in a few days the nurse put other kinds of porridge in his milk and he can eat it, just she needs much time to feed him.   She also told me, that he still needs attention and still tries to tear off the catheter from his arm”
From a missionary who visited with him in March 2012: Bobby was simply beautiful! Quieter than the other children who became quite intense trying to get attention, Bobby sat back and watched. His eyes that are most striking…they are like dark brown pools and theyare very knowing. I pulled him into my lap and our eyes connected, there is real potential within his eyes. He smiled, i just wanted to carry him out…this gentle soul with the slow curving smile…happy to be pulled into my lap and rocked and cuddled and spoken to in a language that he couldn’t understand. I loved him…he would be a wonderful son for somebody! He couldn’t walk at all but moved himself around independently on his knees. His face was a yellowish color that was alarming and may possibly hint at other issues. He really needs to find a family soon.

$4075.80 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Jason

Boy, Born April 10, 2003

HELP! I have been transferred to a remote institution, with no hope of finding my family without you!
Jason spends his time either in a crib or in a stroller, sitting outside.
He needs a lot of love and attention … He is a good, sweet child, but he has a lot of self-injuring behaviors. Unfortunately, he is often restrained because he hits himself really hard.
Update Nov 2012: Jason is learning to walk with support!

Monday's Meditation

2013-04-08T12:04:00.000-03:00

Here it is another Monday morning. Funny how it happens every seven days.

Today, I want to cut to the chase. I follow Reece's Rainbow on the web and on Facebook. Lots of kids have one big need. They need loving and caring families who will go get them, adopt them, and provide them with a family. That's what Reece's Rainbow is all about. Matching orphaned children and youth with caring and loving families.

Simple. Right?

Well, as I have been discovering, there is so much more to it than just that. You need to love kids first and foremost. You need to make a financial commitment because international adoption costs lots of money. I've noticed a lot of the wives do all kinds of fundraisers to help defray the costs. Reece's Rainbow is great, too, for offering grants and providing a way for the larger community of caring people to donate.

Then there's the living after they come home. As we know, being a member of a family has it challenges sometimes. It may be a little more complicated until everyone finds their way within the family.
The work to get these children home to forever families pays off when you see some of the results after they have settled in with their newfound families. I am amazed at the transformation in the children. I am amazed at what practical love does for everyone involved in the process.

I don't think I should be amazed or surprised. I do know that something pulls at my heart and the tears flow. I admit I try not to let them come out though. But they're there at the doors waiting to go.

It is so amazing what happens to a dejected life that has been found and loved back into living. Just amazing.

I have discovered, too, and I'm sure it's because I have a child with Down Syndrome, that it doesn't matter what disability the child has, everyone thrives when they are loved and held in its arms with dignity and trust and worth. I didn't know these abstract words had pictures attached. You have to see it. Just go to www.reecesrainbow.org and you'll find your way to the blogs that describe life after adoption.

So, to the chase. Here are some children and youth I have been following on Reece's Rainbow. They pull at my heart strings. I get teary eyed on occasion when I think of some of them. Their profiles speak for themselves.

My question to you today is what are you able to do to help these sweet vulnerable children?

Donate if you can.

Pray if you feel led.

Volunteer in your own community.

Or, join the thousands who say yes to international adoption and start the journey.

Do something that will help to give these children new and improved life. For every life is worth it. Every child is deserving of a great life in a loving environment with people who really care for them.

So, think about your part in this and then DO it!!

Kanani

Girl, born April 2008

Anophthalmos of the left eye, optic atrophy of the right eye, spastic tetraparesis.

Kanani has been transferred!

Lovely Kanani needs a family to help her reach her full potential.

From a family who met her in May 2012:
Kanani is very sweet girl. She is well cared for in a good orphanage by caring nannies. She gets lots of outside time when it’s warm out but this time is spent lying down in the stroller as she can’t sit on her own. She can hold on to your fingers and seems to just love to have attention although with her eye troubles it is difficult for her to respond. She likes to have her cheek stroked and her hand held. She is quite stiff and in need of physiotherapy and most of all love and attention. We were told that she will be transferred to an institution very soon unless a family is found as children at this orphanage are typically transferred at age 4.
Large families welcome; travel required.

$3567.20 is available towards the cost of my adoption! through www.reecesrainbow.org

Emil

$72.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Natalija L60

Holly

Girl, born Dec 2008
PRC
Down syndrome, congenital heart defect (VSD)

Holly loves to play outside! She is a good eater, and a little shy with strangers. She’s not walking independently yet (as of April 2012). Additional information available.

$1000.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Jason

Boy, born Oct 2002
PRC
Albinism, burn scars on foot/leg
He is described as outgoing and likes to help other kids. A caregiver says his mental development is slightly delayed compared to other children his age at the orphanage because sometimes it takes him a little longer to answer questions than other children. He is in the second grade and has trouble with his homework at times. His caregiver states that he has no vision problems aside from sensitivity to light. He has been diagnosed with albinism. His favorite people are other boys at the orphanage. Playing badminton makes him happy. His caregiver explained that he saw other children playing badminton and decided he wanted to try it, so he is currently learning how to play. When he grows up, he wants to be a car driver. His caregiver stated he is normally very active and noisy, but he was nervous with strangers so he was quiet during the meeting with adoption officials. He had a huge smile on his face during his dance performance and appeared be having fun with his friends.

$50.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Felix

Boy, Born October 20, 2003
Diagnosis: Down syndrome

What a cutie! Betcha he is a handful! Felix is blessed to be at more of an internat than the institution. He doesn’t have many words of his own, but his receptive understanding is very good. He is potty trained and does ask to go to the bathroom. He is described by his caregivers as very friendly and quite the comedian!

Felix urgently needs a family. He was raised as the only child with DS in the baby house. He was much loved and the only child with special needs there, so he didn’t know he was different….. he was raised like the rest of the kids…and was transferred late to the “Internat for Invalids”. Felix was ADORED up until he was about 8 and has taken the transfer very hard. Felix is SUCH a love and he deserves to have a family of his own. Please help us rally for Felix!
More photos available, married couples only.

$11626.31 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Brett #19-1

Boy, Born August 23, 2001
Diagnosis: Down Syndrome, Severe lagging behind in his development, Alopetio areata
Brett was born premature at home and taken to an open field, where he was abandoned. He was there for 6 hours before being rescued and taken to a local hospital, where he was treated for shock, hypothermia, bug bites all over his body and difficulty breathing. Once released from the hospital, he was placed in an orphanage and later transferred to a mental institution, where he lives today. From a physical standpoint, he suffered several bouts of bronchitis and other sicknesses as a young child. He does have alopecia (hair loss), but does not have any other health problems at this time. Based on one of the video clips, it appears that Brett is able to pop his hip out of socket, as his can turn his leg at an unnatural angle. He can walk and move freely around in his environment.

Brett suffers from many delays as a result of spending over 10 years in an institutionalized setting. He walks, plays with toys, communicates using gestures and interact with adults at will. He is NOT aggressive. The staff cares for all his basic needs and he is not receiving any academic instruction or any noted therapies at this time.

Several photos and videos of Brett from December 2012 are available.
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL
MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME WITH LOW COST

$1740.20 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Is It Wordless Wednesday Again?

2013-03-27T15:18:00.000-03:00

I can't believe it's another Wednesday. Woke up to snow. Yes. Snow. Winter is still here. 7 got out with time to spare for the bus. I did my usual morning walk.

That little hill in the distance is my 'mountain'. It happens towards the last 12 minutes of my walk. I take it in about four minutes and and then another 11 down the other side and then home.

These sprouts are tough. One day we have no snow and the next we have the white stuff. These are pretty orange tiger lilies. I love them.

How is your Wednesday going?

I am remembering today those loved and lost. Rest in peace MG.

2013-03-24T22:05:00.001-03:00

Another Surprising Sunday ... NOT!! :)

I am so happy this was an uneventful, ordinary day.

Walked at 7:20 for an 65 minutes.

Relaxed.

Cleaned up.

Did grilled cheese for lunch.

Knitted.

Read stories to 7.

Prepared a simple supper of hash browns, chicken burgers and peas.

Started cleaning up from supper.

7's bath and bed time routine.

Finished cleaning up from supper.

Started laundry.

Now here and just about ready to turn on the dryer.

So winds down my uneventful, lazy kind of day.

Hope the week is as uneventful and ordinary.

And, 7 and I decided to drop a coin or two in a piggy bank each day so that we can send the money to help out children in the world.

Take a look at these sites. They let us know what's going on in the lives of children around the world.

www.reecesrainbow.com
www.mayashope.org

How was your day today?

2013-03-08T16:43:00.000-04:00

Fearless Friday

Well, it's been breezy in my neck of the woods. I have been walking everyday regardless of it though.

Here are some pictures of this morning's walk; about mid morning.

The halfway mark.

One morning, about 8 am, I could smell the beans roasting. It smelled so very good.

The last leg of my walk. Going down the other side of the mountain.

This day came quickly. It's hard to believe it is almost over. J is home and happy and I have to get supper on the go. Leftovers.

Then the weekend will begin along with daylight savings time. Clocks go ahead tomorrow night.

Then there is a spring break for public schools. J and I are planning a few things in the coming days.

Between walking and family, there's always something to be doing or thinking about doing.

Have a great weekend.

I still read a few blogs and websites about children in orphanages and mental institutions in eastern Europe. I believe the solution and the answer comes from the people of these countries.

The churches and the Christians have to get in step with the faith that we are called to carry out. They need to step up and make life better for these children. We all have a part to play in reaching out to the least among us. These children remain on the periphery of their own society. So, I do what I can by bumping and sharing and liking posts and by blogging in my own little way here.

These children need us!!!

Have a great weekend.

www.reecesrainbow.com

www.mayashopefoundation.org

2013-03-06T12:50:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

I don't really know what wordless Wednesday is all about. But I do know that I have something to say today.

Life as a stay-at-home-Mom is not all cracked up to be what people might believe it is. There is only so much house cleaning I am willing to do.

I have, however, been doing a lot of baking lately. Bread. Oliebollen. Butter koek. Molasses Gems. Griddle cakes.

Here's the proof.

Butter Koek still in the oven at this point.

Oliebollen.

Bread.

Now I have the pork loin roast in the oven. Full meal tonight with a delicious dessert.

I have to add that it's hard to lose any weight with all this yummy food around. I do walk every day for at least one hour. That helps me to feel good about everything!!

Secondly, the thing that is on my mind a lot lately is the plight of children and youth in orphanages and mental institutions in eastern Europe. My heart cries for the situations many of these children are living in.

Here's some websites and facebook groups you can look at to see for yourself.

http://www.reecesrainbow.com/

http://www.mayashope.org/

I follow them everyday and believe they do excellent work in international adoption, advocating for children and youth, and in assisting orphanages and institutions with their day to day care of the children. You'll also find a number of bloggers who write about their experiences as adopters. It's good and helpful information.

I like the whole concept of faith and feet working together to get God's work done. We can all do something to help globally or locally.

I'm still thinking about what else I can do to help these people with their cause.

Think. Pray. Love. Act.

Have yourself a good day.

2013-02-12T19:21:00.000-04:00

Timely Tuesday: A Must Read

I've been meeting a lot of great people through facebook pages, twitter tweets, and their very own blogs. Here's one below that will capture your heart. That's because this woman loves children and in particular children with special needs. Read her blog and enjoy and think about what you might be able to do for the children who live and die in orphanages and institutions throughout the world.

http://fortytoforever.com/2013/02/11/surprise-sharing-party/

Saturday Storm Day

2013-02-09T19:02:00.001-04:00

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Well, here are three. It's been a miserable storm day in my neighbourhood.

The winds are blowing hard and constantly.

That makes the snow blow.

Visibility is very poor.

And, it's cold.

Saturday was a day to relax and do things inside. So we did. Reading, watching TV, napping, washing floors, washing a load of laundry, and preparing Shepherd's Pie for supper.

Overall, Saturday was not so bad. Everyone was inside where it was safe and warm.

Saturday Summary

2013-02-02T17:39:00.000-04:00

I love the poetry of Dr. Seuss. 'From there to here, from here to there, funny things are everywhere.' from One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish.

Funny things and good things. Here's a glimpse into my week that has just past.

Homemade bread that never mixes up the same but sure does taste delicious.

A knitting project that will just fit when it's done. The pattern was tricky. Or, maybe, I was the tricky one. I redid the left front at least four times before I figured it out. AND, it was NOT the pattern. It was me!!!

Busy at the farm where it's 365 days a year and two times a day every day. What work! What dedication!

An eagle's feather maybe. Or it could be a crow's feather. Just laying there on the ground in the softened mud and dirt.

This has been my week. It's held funny things and many things that are classified. Classified as Ordinary. But it's what makes my life truly mine.

Have a great weekend.

2013-01-23T19:40:00.000-04:00

Wednesday... supposed to be Wordless... hmmm....

This week has been quiet. Uneventful except for ....

our deep freeze. I know that -20 degrees is nothing compared to out west. But some of us are not used to it here in my part of the world.

and I had a visitor in a tree out front yesterday. S/he was beautiful. Here's a view.

What beautiful sight!!! So big. So marvelous. I felt honoured to be so close; about 35 feet away.

Moment of happiness today was when my 7 and I read for a while in the living room. I always enjoy this time.

2013-01-17T22:25:00.001-04:00

Thursday Already!

Where is that precious time flying to!!!

I took my walk this morning on the snow covered roads. Moved slower and so I didn't walk as far. But the time was still the same.

My thoughts are with the Official Reece's Rainbow Facebook Group again this evening. What a challenge it is to reach out through international adoption. So many hurdles and bumps to overcome in gaining their forever child.

My thoughts are with them . . .
what to do . . .
what to do . . .

What can I do here from Canada? That's been the question on my mind and in my heart.

Each child is so very precious. Each child needs to know s/he is loved by someone - a family.

What to do . . .

Locally, I hope to sponsor a mom who is planning to raise $10,000 and shave her head for the Canadian Childhood Cancer Foundation. It will be a small amount in comparison to her goal. I think though all the little ones add up to pretty big ones sometimes.

Moment of happiness today was making a dent in the clutter in this computer room of mine. Recycled, threw out, packed up, relocated, thinned out somewhat. The job has begun. I love it when spring cleaning comes early. The job gets done quicker.

2013-01-16T17:31:00.001-04:00

Never Wordless Wednesday (Here)

Snowing.

Half day at school.

Baked cookies and then painted them with 7yo.

Moment of happiness for me today was enjoying this time with my sweet, sweet child!

Glad to be inside with this snow and the road accidents happening throughout the region.

Walked for third time this week outside. Have to transverse three hills going and coming. Legs all the way up back are sore. I take this as a good sign. It is wonderful to be incorporating walking into my daily living. Another moment of happiness!

2013-01-15T21:11:00.000-04:00

Tuesday Tune

It was another quiet day.

I walked outside for an hour. Basically a straight line with hills and a few curves. It's good for the cardio. Good for the joints. I'm glad I'm making it a priority in my life. 115 days.

So mild today. It will end tomorrow with 5 cm of snow in the afternoon. Most of the snow is gone but it will be back soon enough. It is January after all.

7 is pure joy. I love that child.

My heart ponders the the facebook group Official Reece's Rainbow Facebook Group. They have a website, too. It's a group that works towards adopting children from eastern Europe, Russia and China. These children usually have physical or mental disabilities. A lot of children with Down Syndrome are put up for international adoption.

My heart is touched with sadness and contemplation about the plight of these children. I wonder how I can help.

Moment of happiness today was while I was on my walk. I am so glad that I am physically able to walk for an hour. It is so good for the psyche and for the physical body.

2013-01-14T20:55:00.002-04:00

Monday's Musing

Folks, I've said I lead a pretty quiet, ordinary life. And I do.

I took a 60 minute walk this morning. It was mild enough. Almost springlike weather. It was a great break from the treadmill routine.

I ran errands.

I cooked supper.

I picked up 7 from bus.

I tidied up from supper.

I got 7 all nice and clean and ready for bed. A half hour later, 7 is still awake and talking out loud while reading.

DH is at work.

Boarder out.

And, I'm here trying to keep this ordinary blog from fading into the mists of memory a second time.

My moment of happiness today was when I saw my 7's sweet, sweet face and happy smile!! I do love that child to pieces!!!

Good night all.