Well, it is Wednesday. That means just two more days until this ends. There is great news: The Burger family received approval from USCIS for their orphan request. This means that they can now submit their dossier, requesting an interview with Brian's country officials in order to accept his referral. This is great news. So, with that in mind - let's continue to bless the Burger family by donating in this giveaway. Ultimately sweet Brian is who wins. Thank you to all those who have given and shared or posted on different social media sites. With your help we have gotten up over the $2,000.00 mark. What a praise! Let's see how much more we can do in these last two days! How exciting it is to be apart of rescuing that little boy!
*** UPDATE***
As of today (April 14th) there are eight days left. Another family within our Down syndrome community has stepped forward to help. The Sader family is donating $1 for you just merely sharing on Facebook or posting on your blog. Just be sure to leave them a comment that you have done so. You can visit their blog and get detailshere.
<< Also be sure if you donate to leave a comment here on this blog>>
~~~ Thank you to all those who have donated/shared/posted/prayed in support ~~~
I am very grateful for your help. Thank you.
A year ago, I sat at our dining room table and wept. It was the first time I was confronted with the images of the children listed on Reece's Rainbow. Having a baby with Down syndrome, my heart sank at the notion of what was happening half a world away to those who shared his same blessing of having an extra chromosome. The plight of these children weighed on our hearts so heavily that there was a constant pull - a burden that could not be ignored.
I thank God for that burden. We brought home Max and Ivanna last December because of that call from God.
The Burger family has sought out to answer a similar call. To adopt little Brian. To rescue him from spending the rest of his life behind these gates - where he will be transferred, an older boys mental institution.
*picture above taken by Julia Nalle, her blog is truly inspiring and touches hearts*
Look at this picture below. Brian is beautiful. Simply beautiful. He (nor any other child) should ever have to spend a life confined, uncared for, never to know the hugs from a mama or rough housing with papa.
That is why we are hosting this giveaway. Yes, it is fun - and it's always exciting to win. However - when you donate, it isn't you who may ultimately be the winner - it is Brian. So, with that said - let's get to the fun stuff. iPad 2 Giveaway
You have an opportunity to win a new iPad 2 - your choice of color, 16 GB, WiFi, and 3G - with Verizon or AT&T - valued at $629.00 purchased by the Burger family. *service plan will be winner's responsibility, if winner does not want the 3G capable iPad 2 - we ask you let us know upon winning*
Entrance Details:
$10 = 1 entry
$25 = 3 entries
$50 = 8 entries
$100 = 20 entries
$150 = 35 entries
$300 = 80 entries
** If you donate via chip in AND share this giveaway on your blog or FB page - you can have an EXTRA entry***
Giveaway closes April 22 at noon (PST), and the winner will be announced April 25th on this blog.
Winner will be drawn using a random number generating website.
Donations must be made via the chip in at the bottom of this post - or on sidebar.
Once you have donated please come back and leave a comment (this is where we will be deriving names for drawing).
When you leave a comment please include an email address if you are commenting anonymously and do not have a google account. All proceeds are going directly to the Burger family.
... but...
...that's not all ... Let's make this REALLY fun.
The first name drawn will win the iPad2, then we will continue to draw additional names for more prizes available.
You also have an opportunity to win:
Item #1 2 sets of custom made long Korker Bows by Malissa Farmer Upon winning - the entrant drawn for this item will let Malissa know what colors they want. Yes, that is a Reece's Rainbow korker bow you see. ;) Korkers are very well made and affixed to a french clip to stay in the hair better. Item #2 Matryoshka family doll Straight from Eastern Europe - this is a four piece doll that stands at 5 inches height at it's tallest. Item #3 Tu-Tu Boutique Dress by Deanna Sader These dresses are very much sought after - and for good reason. They are beautiful. I have two dresses made by Deanna and they are very well made and shipped very nicely. I love these dresses. Deanna is herself in the midst of adopting a little girl with Down syndrome from Brian's same country - so we thank her for the donation. You can visit her blog here. Winner will receive one dress made up to size 4T. Item #4
A copy of 'An Extra Leaf' in lustre finish in photo quality paper. Winner will have choice of
4X6
5X7
8X10 Item #5 Authentic loose beach glass straight from a local beach here in Washington. We have loose beach glass scattered throughout our home. It makes a nice accent and reminds me of days spent with the smell of sea air and toes muddy with sand. Winner will receive one bundle of loose beach glass. Item #6 Floral hair pretties made by me. The winner will receive the lot of hair pretties pictured above. These flower pretties are perfect for the upcoming Spring weather (will we ever get there - LOL) and Summer months. Pretties are affixed to alligator clips. Lot includes four sets. Item #7 'The Open Door' by J.L Ragsdale A touching true story of a well off Californian couple who gave up all their worldly riches and decided to follow God and open up The Open Door - a children's home, loving on those closest to God's heart ... children. This story - is quite impactful. Winner will receive one new copy. See ... the book is Max approved! Item #8 Happy Hartman Farm Hope Soap My friends, the Hartman family are preparing to journey to Europe and adopt their own little blessing with 'an extra leaf'. This soap has been a means of fundraising for them. Cured right on their farm, in wonderful scents. You can visit and follow the Hartman's journey here. Winner will receive 4 bars of soap. Item #9
Thomas Kinkade Gazebo New in package beautiful gazebo that lights up and winds to play music.
Is that all?
NOPE
Not everyone can donate - but you CAN share this giveaway and post on your blogs and Facebook pages. A second, separate drawing will be done for those who leave comments stating they have shared or posted to their blogs about this giveaway. Just leave a comment everytime you share - please remember to state that you are entering the "GIFT CARD" drawing.
A dear friend of the Burger's, Amy, donated one $25 Darden Gift card - good at the following restaraunts:
Red Lobster Olive Garden Longhorn Bahama Breeze Seasons 52
Winner of this second, separate drawing will receive this $25 gift card.
Okay ... let's have some fun - and help bring BRIAN home!!! You can donate here: (be sure to come back and leave a comment for the drawing)
I just left a link and info on Moneysavingmom.com website. Many people enjoy that website and come there often, hopefully they participate. May God multiply every cent!
Donated for 3 entries and postng on FB everyday until the 21st, but most importantly, praying for the Father to move this mountain, casting it into the sea and super-naturally multiply what is given. In Jesus might name. If we are chosen, gift our prize or the funds that would have been used to purchase it , back to the Burgers.
Miss Charrissa, I shared on my Windows Live homepage for my friends far away and I noticed my mom shared on facebook so I would like say she is participating too:D thank you we love the Burger Famliy!
I pray that your funds are raised and Brian will be home soon!!!! I donated for 3 entries and will post on fb with Deanna Sader's challenge. May God bless you! jklekas@citlink.net
Hi! This is a great cause! I just donated and am putting this on my FB. I hope that y'all are able to raise the rest of the money with everyone sharing this on FB and blogs. Good Luck and hope Brian comes home soon!
Donated $50 and shared on facebook. Praying sweet Brian is home where he belongs very soon. I am new to your blog and your journey - what a beautiful family you have!! Where in WA are you? We're in Walla Walla. http://babymatthew.wordpress.com
April - Phillip and Charrissa "accidentally" stumble across Reeces Rainbow website and are impacted
April - Praying God would supply provision - very next few days started to see tangible answers to that prayer
May 7 - Called and scheduled Homestudy for May 26
May 13 - Started adoption blog (hopeful) and wrote poem, "An Extra Leaf"
May 17 - Scheduled physicals and lab draws (May 31; June 5)
~ also ordered Birth certificates for Phillip and Charrissa
May 20 - Birth Certificates Arrive! Wow! ~ ~ ~ We also send Andrea @ RR an email stating our commitment to Ivanna and Matthew ~ ~ ~
May 22 - Notarized RR Disclosure and fax to RR
May 23 - Started filling out Homestudy paperwork - A LOT
May 24 - Sent off two checks to RR. One for committing and another for a love offering for the running of the ministry
May 26 - Met with social worker for first of two meetings and the beginning of our homestudy. Looks like we may be approved for three children!
June 4 - Lu finishes designing blog - Beautiful!!!
June 5 - Notarized CSP and four out of five POA's.
June 7 - Mailed CSP and POA's for apostilling. Ordered 3 Marriage Certificates.
June 10 - Received marriage certificates ... that was FAST!
June 11 - Passport Application and lab draws
~ also find out that there is NOT a notary at dr. office - so we reschedule to June 21 with a different dr. for medicals
June 14 - Completed 1.5 hours of 12 hours of online coursework for homestudy requirements. Also mailed CSP and four POA's to Eastern Europe!!!!
June 17 - Completed an add'l 4.5 hours of online courses
June 21 - Completed medical exam required for both the Dossier process and Homestudy process!
June 21 - Finished 2 add'l hours of online courses. FOUR more hours left...
June 23 - Finished LAST four hours of online courses!!! YAY!
June 28 - Scheduled LAST HS visit for July 9th.
July 3 - Charrissa receives passport!
July 7 - Phillip receives his passport!
July 9 - Homestudy is complete. Now just waiting for draft.
August 13 - Received final, notarized copy of Home study.
August 14 - Sent home study along with I-600A application to USCIS - a big whopping $830 check also went along for the ride. WOOOHOOO! Praying for FAST approval
August 18 ~ received 13 apostilled documents and will put those away for dossier.
August 18 ~ only have FIVE more documents to finish for dossier requirements!
August 19th ~ received email and text confirmation from USCIS that our I-600A was received via lockbox. praying for that approval!
August 20th ~ Receive I-797C receipt (I-600a application receipt, same as text/email)
August 26th ~ Receive Biometrics Appointment (fingerprinting) for September 21st. Sent email, hoping for expedite.
~~~~Also, we only have 3 more documents to finish for dossier (including our pending I-171H from USCIS)
August 30th ~ FINGERPRINTING IS DONE! Called USCIS to let them know. They said to call back in a week, as a case worker has not yet been assigned. Hmmm... I'll give 'em till Friday! ;)
September 2nd ~ Received letter from Senator Patty Murray explaining that she is more than happy to help look into our I-600A application process
September 3rd ~ Awoke to an email from our immigration officer ~~ WE ARE APPROVED! OUR I-600A IS APPROVED!Now we just await the I-171H in the mail. We now are FINISHED WITH THE DOSSIER! We will notarize two documents tomorrow and set out to apostille the dossier next week, with a goal to send it out late next week out of COUNTRY! YAY! PRAISE THE LORD!
September 5th ~ We decide to add a third child to our adoption. A "blind referral" in the same orphanage. A new CSP and Petition to Adopt is being prepared for notarization and apostille to send with Dossier.
September 10th ~ Received I-171H in the mail!!!! Now we notarize, apostille and prepare to mail the dossier to E.E.
September 13th ~ Finished notarizing and apostilling Dossier! ******DOSSIER IS DONE AND READY TO MAIL****
September 16th ~ DOSSIER EN ROUTE TO E.E.
September 20th ~ Dossier is delivered to E.E.
September 30th ~ Dossier is submitted to SDA for approval, and now we are awaiting a travel date....
October 19th ~ We received our travel date: October 28th!!!
October 26th ~ Left for E.E.
October 28th ~ Given two referrals - one for Matthew and one for Ivanna
November 1st ~ travel two hours to region, and met Matthew and Ivanna and said YES to adopting them. Started the paperwork for court. Court is scheduled already for November 11th because our Interpol is ALREADY CLEARED! WHOOOHOOOOOO!
November 10th ~ Courtdate ~ we are approved by the courts to adopt Matthew and Ivanna; Introducing Matthew Maxim Browning and Ivanna Marie Browning. Now we wait ten days for the court decree per law.
November 20th ~ Ten days is technically over, but must wait till next business day (Tuesday) to do any paperwork
November 23rd ~ Got new birth certificates for both children and applied for new passports. Now we wait four days (business) to get new passports and take them out of orphanage FOREVER! Getting soooo close....
November 29th ~ Gotcha Day! The day they are out of that orphanage foever!
November 30th ~ First embassy appointment for visas. Both children are given physicals by a doctor.
December 1st ~ Interview by embassy. Visas granted!
December 2nd ~ Matthew and Ivanna are HOME in the USA!
70 comments:
I donated and FB'd the Giveaway...
I donated, FB'd and blogged! Wishing you the best!
I donated and made a blog post. Will be praying for the $13,000.00
Donated!
Shared on facebook!
I just made a blog post.
Donated
FB'd it..will get to the others soon.
Hey Charissa!
I just donated and posted on FB as well. Crossing fingers...
Mary at McArthur Mile told me about Brian. I donated and blogged about it and put it on facebook.
I do so hope you raise enough quickly and can bring home this precious boy.
I left a link on my blog. Hope this giveaway is a blessing and God multiplies every penny.
We donated 25.00 to your work in helping your friends bring home Brian. He's such a cutie! We are close to bringing our two children home (May).
godsarrrowsinourquiver.blogspot.com
In His Service,
John & Amy Hinz
Hey Guys, I just went on and donated. I will cross post again on FB. Praying for the Burger family and for little Brian!
dawgfan18@hotmail.com
The Huckaby's
Donated for 3 entries! :)
Just donated for 3 entries! Been thinking/praying about Brian a lot!
kristyhow1976@yahoo.com
I just left a link and info on Moneysavingmom.com website. Many people enjoy that website and come there often, hopefully they participate. May God multiply every cent!
I donated (one entry)!!! Good luck!
Donated for three entries. #1
Praying!! #2
Comment #3.
Posting on Facebook. #4
Donated for 160 entries...I would normally not comment, but I am hoping to win the IPad so I can give the money to the Burgers.
Donated for 3 entries and postng on FB everyday until the 21st, but most importantly, praying for the Father to move this mountain, casting it into the sea and super-naturally multiply what is given. In Jesus might name. If we are chosen, gift our prize or the funds that would have been used to purchase it , back to the Burgers.
www.savinglera.blogspot.com
Donated. May the Lord bless what you are doing...
posted on FB too.
Just posted on my blog and donated!!
Good Luck!!!!
Shared on Facebook. God bless you!
Donated for little Brian.
I chipped in to help get this sweet boy home to his family.
Donated for Brian and have posted on FB and will continue!
Donated (3 entries). God Bless!
jczl5@yahoo.com
Miss Charrissa, I shared on my Windows Live homepage for my friends far away and I noticed my mom shared on facebook so I would like say she is participating too:D thank you we love the Burger Famliy!
Kaitlyn P.
Just donated for 8 entries. Brian, come home soon!
I donated and shared on FB God bless your progress. Love ya llllisa
donated and FB posted! Good luck!!!
I donated too, Sweet Brian! (1 entry) And I posted to FB! Thank you!
tricianovak@yahoo.com
I pray that your funds are raised and Brian will be home soon!!!! I donated for 3 entries and will post on fb with Deanna Sader's challenge. May God bless you!
jklekas@citlink.net
I donated for three entries. May the Lord multiply our givings! Comment #1.
Entry #2. Praying for Brian!
Entry #3.
Forgot to say I donated for 8 entries. God bless llllisa
HI, I donated 3 entries
Thank you and good luck in your adoption. Sandy
i posted the link on my FB page.
Prayed, donated, will fb and blog. Let's get this little cutie home.
Donated and shared on FB. Praying that this little love bug gets home soon.
I posted on on FB
Donated for 1 entry & reposted!
I'm going to hit twitter tonight. My kung-fu is weak on twitter, but I'll see what I can do.
Donated & posted on FB!
Daelyn R.
Donated for 8 entry and added a fb link so all my friends can help bring another leaf to our family tree.
Posted to FB. Good Luck!
Ok making a donation . Also posted on Fb ;)
your doing an awesome thing !
I donated a couple weeks ago...hope you make lots of $$ :)
Forgot to comment! Donated, shared this via Facebook and our blog. Won't be long until little Brian is home!
Donated for 3 enteries-wish we could have given more- Posted to FB, PRAYING for you all!
Holly Hilson
househilson@yahoo.com
Donating $25
~ Jessica Burchett
Hi! This is a great cause! I just donated and am putting this on my FB. I hope that y'all are able to raise the rest of the money with everyone sharing this on FB and blogs. Good Luck and hope Brian comes home soon!
hi there. i have left a donation, and made a post on fb :) thank you.
Terry Broderick
(I am Maria's mom taiya and Benji grandma)
Sorry... forgot to leave an e-mail earlier.
condrabo@gmail.com
Donated for 8 entries! FB'd too! Can't wait to see Brian home :)
I donated $50.00 maybe I will win one for my birtday, but I will be happy anyway because Brian wins LIFE!
Add me to the drawing....
Stephanie Lynch
Donated and facebooked blog! - The Salings
Donated $50 and shared on facebook. Praying sweet Brian is home where he belongs very soon. I am new to your blog and your journey - what a beautiful family you have!! Where in WA are you? We're in Walla Walla. http://babymatthew.wordpress.com
Hi, I donated & shared on facebook :)
gaby
(Maria Falvo's sister)
purchased 35 entries
Hello!
Brendamac from RR here. I donated $50, and shared on FB.!
Good luck only wish I could have donated more.... My email is brendanurse@gmail.com
Just purchased 3 entries, and Facebooked....praying for this sweet family!! =D
<3 Shelby
Email: huckaby67@aol.com
Just donated $100 via chip in.
Amy Dolloff we are friends on facebook -- you can get ahold of me that way.
get him home soon. :)
We donated $50.00.
After some prayer, we have decided to donate an additional $50. We're praying for the Burgers and sweet Brian!
my email is saralamarr@hotmail.com
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