Minus 1 Project

Typical

2012-03-07T08:43:00.001-05:00

And just when you set up your girls to take a picture, in their new matching jammies to send as a thank you to their Gandy, teenage brother walks by on his way to the shower and tosses his clean boxers at them...

Oh, sweet Carson, if only you knew what you were about to enter in to. We love you and can't wait to take pictures of you with your brother's undies on your head!

*Check out the make-your-own price t-shirt sale below. Extra shirts need to go!

EP Movement Sale Celebration!

2012-03-06T06:56:00.002-05:00

Yesterday it was, in fact, confirmed that the Ministry began processing Exit Permissions.

(If you are late in this game, that is the last thing Carson needs before we can travel to bring him home...forever!)

I'm not totally sure why, but our agency, unlike others, will not be notified of if or when we are submitted, just that we are cleared for travel.

So, best case scenario, if we were in the first batch, we most likely wouldn't hear until next week or so, after C's EP was processed.

So, in the meantime, we'll celebrate with a SaLe.

A Minus 1 t-shirt sale.

You pick the color/size available (limited)

and

you pick the donation amount.

We mail you the shirt.

Help us finish out our Minus 1 Project.

Here are your color/size choices. (I'll do my best to update.)

PINK

1 adult medium

2 adult large

Grey

1 adult small

1 adult medium

2 adult large

2 adult Xlarge

1 adult XXlarge

White t-shirt with black print

(small Minus 1 Project on back, picture on the fundraising site.)

2 adult small

4 adult medium

3 adult large

3 adult Xlarge

2 adult XXlarge

Feel free to email, takva73@gmail.com, before donating to be sure that we still have your color/size choice.

I can't wait to share, later this week, how we have been preparing for our son's homecoming...minus 1 project almost complete!

Some good news

2012-03-05T09:14:00.004-05:00

Many parents in the process of Korean adoptions follow a certain blog.

It is called MPAK (Mission to Promote Adoption in Korea).

Last night Steve posted my most favorite post of all:

EP - It is Really Happening!

EP is really happening in Korea, starting from March 5th.
I got this email from a friend of mine who works at an adoption agency in Korea.

------------
Dear Steve,

Hope this finds you and your family quite well as always.
As of today, March 5 (Mon), the Ministry began to accept our paperworks for EPs.
It's a great news though delayed.

Hope you another great day!
-----------

I wish all the waiting families have a great day as well at this great news!

Steve Morrison

2012-03-02T10:42:00.001-05:00

This picture was taken at the Baby Reception Center in Seoul, Korea a few weeks before Carson arrived.

Wake on up from your slumber,

Each of these little bodies is here because at the moment they have no family.

They have never been called son or daughter.

Thankfully, they will receive very good care from the nurses in this center.

But those nurses will go home.

They will wait.

Millions wait.

And most aren't in clean, sweet baby reception centers.

Come on and open up your eyes.

Just in...

2012-02-29T14:46:00.004-05:00

Look what arrived today! The stainless steel travel mugs (14 oz. great for hot and cold drinks). After a very long drawn out family discussion, we decided on the lime mug. I used it at lunch and it was great! It has kept my drink super cold, has a easy slide on lid, controlled liquid flow and smooth feel to the lip. I have been 100% honest with my feelings toward all our gear...this one is great! I know you will like it and you should order one or two today because.......

There is word from the Korean ministry. The newest rumor (I have a call with our agency tomorrow) is that they will begin submitting and processing EPs March 5. They have reportedly said they will work to expedite those within 1-2 weeks. Again, we don't know where our paperwork will fall, but it is looking like we will be able to travel in March.

Bring. it. on.

Miscellaneous Monday

2012-02-27T11:17:00.005-05:00

1. I can barely type out this post as my eyes are blurry from my weekend spent in chlorine-filled air at the Regional swim meet. Our family was split for the weekend...mother/sons and father/daughters. It was a great time for both groups. Our boys swam amazingly and the girls had such a great time with their dad! Although, I must say that it is a bit unnerving watching your thirteen year old on the starter's blog next to a man (17/18 yr. old) with a shaved chest and 5 o'clock shadow!

2. Nada from the Korean Ministry.

3. Finally!!!!

We knew this one wouldn't last long, as the next days' temperatures were suppose to warm up so we headed out that night for a long walk and some late night sledding...

4. I can't wait to see the new stainless steel mugs this week. (I did see the sample mug but without our logo.) I may need to purchase some "fancy" coffee to drink from it....lime or pink, that is the question.

5. Lindsey was so excited when we received a baby carrier from a friend.

I asked on facebook about recommendations for a back baby carrier. Not only did I receive some great suggestions but a friend, currently living in Italy, no less, offered to send us hers. Don't you just love that kind of thing?

6. Zilch from the Korean Ministry.

7. Nothing says love like a sister who will hold your nebulizer mask when your arm gets tired.

8. About 2 weeks ago we received some colored and clear Tervis tumbler lids. We have ONLY have 2 Tervis tumblers (with black lids) left. I hope we can reorder some later in the year but might not be until fall. If you were wanting one, order NOW.

9. Zip from the Korean Ministry.

10. Feeling like I need to end on a more happy note: Adopt on!

Look what's new....

2012-02-24T08:21:00.001-05:00

Shop www.gotloveadopt.com

New to our fundraising shelves next week: 14 oz., acrylic outer with stainless steel interior, travel mugs. Available in lime and pink...we're thinking spring. Order yours today while supplies last....

Have a great weekend. Adopt on!

Nada

2012-02-22T08:09:00.007-05:00

That would be the word out of the Korean Ministry on EPs (exit permission). I heard that by this time last year there had been 4-5 groups through...sigh.

In the meantime, we got in some colored Minus 1 tees. The sizes are limited, adult S-2XL, so email, takva73@gmail.com, before donating to check on availability. ($15 includes shipping!)

We still have at least one of each size/color except for the pink S & 2XL.

Every Adoption = Minus 1 Orphan

Grey shirt shows front, pink shirt shows back.

Please continue to pray for the Ministry to get a move on it. There are hundreds of children that have families waiting...like Carson! We are getting our house ready for him and believing it won't be long.

Baby brother BeWaRe!!!

2012-02-20T09:18:00.006-05:00

(Need I say more?)

Last day....order on!

2012-02-19T12:08:00.006-05:00

Keeping with the ____ on! theme, will you Pray on? There is a group of us praying this evening around 7:00 est b/c that is the beginning of the work week for the Korean ministry. We are praying that they would begin issuing exit permissions for the hundreds of children, including our son, who are waiting to go home. This is the LAST piece to their adoption puzzle. Once issued their forever family can come and take them home!! Join us, please.

We will be placing the first order of "Adopt on!" shirts tomorrow afternoon.

I hope to do another order but want to get this one to the printers and, hopefully, mailed out before we travel.

You can order yours at www.gotloveadopt.com.

Share on! winners

2012-02-17T13:22:00.001-05:00

I wish I could personally thank each of you for taking the time to share our fundraising efforts with your friends, families, adoption groups and contacts.

We picked two of you to pick a free shirt.

Christy M.

Rebecca Lee

We have found such support from the adoption community.

I know many of you understand the love, passion and anticipation we are experiencing.

We received this amazing "baby shower in a box" from a friend.

It was so fun to look through all the goodies.

I cannot wait to see Carson's chubby little legs running around this summer in that onesie!

I want to share with you about another fundraiser. Can you get over these cute cards? I am not very crafty...so I'm thrilled to send hand-made cards and let the receiver just assume I made them! :) This pack of 10 was $17. Only $1.70 per card.

Don't give your money to Hallmark. Make every purchase count.

You can support this incredible family and order yours here: mowensjourney.blogspot.com

We will be placing the order for the new "Adopt on!" shirts Monday. If you were thinking of ordering one, now is the time!

Have a great weekend. Adopt on!

I'm done.

2012-02-15T11:53:00.004-05:00

Here's my newest thinking...anticipation and anxiety in the wait are draining. And although I am longing like never before to travel to Korea and hold my son (I can't wait to see him, hold him, smell and kiss him.) I don't want to miss the here and now.

I have a husband and four children who need me. They need my attention and energy--most of which is being spent checking email, stalking timelines, and worrying about a situation that is COMPLETELY out of my control.

(I did contemplate sending the Korean ministry an "Adopt on!" shirt with a note attached reading "You all can drag your feet as long as you want to, we are still going to...")

Along with this thought, comes another one. Who am I trusting and believing in? If it is the Korean ministry then I am in a whole lot of trouble!

"ALL I HAVE SEEN TEACHES ME TO TRUST THE CREATOR FOR ALL I HAVE NOT SEEN."

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

I actually blogged about that a long time ago. Funny, or not so, how we can "learn" a lesson and so easily forget it. This post, written on May 24, 2010, boldly proclaimed how I had learned to wait on the Lord and know that His timing is perfect, regardless of how long this adoption might take. I only need to look at my sweet Lindsey and know. How quickly I forget His past provisions and blessings.

I read this the other night from Ann Voskamp's book:

"Raging at children for minor wrongdoings while I'm the one defiling the moment with sinful anger. Hoarding possessions while others die of starvation. Entertaining the mind with trivial pretties when I haven't bowed the head and heart in a prayer longer than five minutes a week."

My first thought was, "Has Ann been living with me the past month (or longer)?" Ouch.

My husband and children are the first to receive my disappointment and anger as another day passes without word on our travel. I can easily fill my mind and time with trivial things that certainly are not going to make the wind blow this way or that. (These days my stomach has been filled with much more than it needs.) My prayers have been more of a "Lord, get those men moving. Make them see that this prolonging isn't helping anyone!" rather than gratitude and trust.

And so I am done. I'm done with the wishing and the wanting. I am going to rest in the peace that He has promised. I am going to fill my day with my 5 Valentines and make memories with them of the days before Carson. I'm determined, with God's grace, to close this chapter with a happy ending...of days filled with love, forgiveness, understanding and joy. I'll relish this chapter's end and look forward with anticipation (only) to the beginning of the next...My family plus one!

Change of date: we'll pick 2 free t-shirt winners this Friday and be placing the new "Adopt on!" shirt order on Monday, Feb. 20. We are so appreciative to all who have shared our fundraising site. Thank you and Share on!

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T11:31:00.001-05:00

The heart from the top of Seoul Tower in Korea. I'm missing my littlest Valentine.

Share on!

2012-02-13T06:31:00.000-05:00

I'm not going to beat around the bush on this one. I would like for all of you...follower or just-by-chance reader today, to please share our fundraising site. Many of you have read our blog for the past almost 2 years and have seen/read about our many projects. Our Minus 1 projects...from raffles to bbq dinners to straw cups to charm necklaces. We have worked really hard to try to come up with new and different ideas.

But...stick a fork in me. :)

Would you please share our fundraising site or blog address?

You could blog about it.

You could send it through a tweet.

You could message it to your adopting friends.

You could post it as your status update.

You could text it to all your contacts.

You could rent one of those banners to be pulled behind a small plane (I'm thinking that would count as two entries).

Leave us a comment letting us know you shared--don't need details if you don't want to explain how or where--just that you did. Next Monday, we'll pick 2 of those comment authors to receive a FREE shirt of your choice.

We are so close to the finish line.

The front of the line says "Minus 1 Project".

The back of it reads "Apisa family plus 1".

Our current race is almost over. Praise the Lord that He sets the lonely in families.

Please, join us on this last leg...pass the baton to all you know and share on!

Rock on?

2012-02-11T20:02:00.000-05:00

No, "Adopt on!"

Thank you to so many who have placed an order for the new shirts.

I'm picturing lots of shirt-matching family pictures...including ours!

Looks like we may be able to place the order sooner rather than later.

Now if only we would get that "Travel on!" phone call!

New logo and winner!

2012-02-08T09:01:00.000-05:00

It all began when I blogged about a mock t-shirt design:

"Yes, thank you, we are well aware of the cost of college tuition and we are adopting another child anyway."

Well, it actually began as my facebook status after, once again, someone kindly reminded me how expensive college would be for five children. I think most adopting parents can attest to the fact that at some time they have heard some not-s0-encouraging remarks about their plans (or really God's plans) for their family.

When I rewrote it out for the blog, HERE, I ended the post with "Have a great weekend. Adopt on!" It just flowed...I thought: Ok, world, you're going to show me all the reasons that adoption doesn't make sense, well, my family and I are going to adopt on! Later that evening, Tim started messing with the message and made the "i" in adoption a guitar so it would read "Adopt on!" (Kind of like, rock on! Love that man's creativity!)

In the face of opposition, we say...Adopt on!

For millions, adoption is their only chance...Adopt on!

This world and even our own minds can try to convince us that welcoming and loving a child not of our own race or blood is not an option for us...Adopt on!

Break the mold, step out, do unto others, love as Jesus loved and

Adopt on!

Black/white...unisex cut (youth XS-adult 3XL)

Pink/white...unisex cut (youth XS-adult 3XL)

Lime/pink...unisex cut (youth XS-adult 3XL)

Soft style, ring spun grey/pink (a slimmer fit) (adult S-adult 2XL)

*Actual shirt color is a lighter grey color.

The winner of the free shirt give away is: Kim. Thanks for all the comments/suggestions.

You can order your shirt(s) from our fundraising site now. We'll place the order within the next few weeks. Click on over to www.gotloveadopt.com today and Adopt on!

Passing the wait time.

2012-02-07T08:15:00.000-05:00

The wait time in adoption is by far the hardest for me. There is a fine line between anticipated what the next day will bring and wishing my day away. I don't want to wish away these days. I know very well that when that phone rings and we go--our lives will never be the same. We will then be a family of 7. It'll take time for everyone to find their new role. It has been many years since I had a baby on my hip--or in Carson's case, on my back.

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassion never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. I say to myself, 'The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait on Him'"

Lamentations 3:22

I do believe that the Lord knows the ache in one's heart as they wait to hold, love, snuggle and squeeze their child(ren). I think that is why it is wise to wait on Him, hold, love, snuggle, and squeeze into fellowship with the One who knows exactly the pain. He has not forgotten. He doesn't waste a day in our lives!

And so each morning as I awake, I try to remember His compassion that will carry me through today and tomorrow.

On a lighter note, I thought I would share some of how Lindsey passes these waiting days. She grabs some dress up clothes, the camera and uses the coffee table as a tripod:

She realizes she is still in her jammies so she gets dressed.

Love the dramatic ending...definitely one of my favorite self-photo shoots, yet!

I hope my next post will reveal our new shirt design or a "we're off!"...whichever comes first.

Same post...lower prices!!

2012-02-06T09:08:00.005-05:00

Bear with me here...I am stalling in hopes of getting to post our new shirt later today or tomorrow.

We dropped the prices for the shirts left to $10!!

We cannot go any lower, with shipping, and still make a profit.

Help us clear out for our new shirts, please.

In case you haven't heard...

We've got a son to get home and, conveniently, some stock to clear out.

We still have several "one of a kind" t-shirts.

Act fast...

Tangerine: 1 adult L SOLD

Irish green: 1 adult M and 1 adult L SOLD

Orange: 1 adult XL SOLD

Pink fitted long sleeve: 2 adult L SOLD

Tye Dye: 1 adult L SOLD

Black long sleeve: 1 adult L and 1 youth S SOLD: adult L

Black short sleeve (soft style): 1 adult L SOLD

Gray: 1 adult XL SOLD

Black shirt w/ pink fade: 1 of every size (youth XS-Adult 3XL)SOLD: Adult S, Adult M, Adult L, Adult XL, Youth L, Adult XXL, Adult XXXL

Adult small and XL

Email, takva73@gmail.com, to check availability before donating.

REDUCED....All of the above shirts, today only are $10 including shipping!!

Think ahead to birthdays, homecomings, showers, Valentine's, Mother and Father's day! I'm thinking ahead to bringing my baby home! :)

Bundle and t-shirt winner

2012-02-03T11:29:00.000-05:00

A big thank you to all who donated toward our Bundle for my bundle donations.

Over the past two weeks, we received $160 into our adoption fund.

A huge thank you to Cindy and her family for their offer to match the donations.

That took the total to$360!! Woo Hoo!

(Yes...the $200 donation was given even though we didn't actually reach $200. Amazing!)

The big drawing...

Candace Roberts takes home the bundle!

Katie Helms takes home a free t-shirt!

I can't imagine the joy it will be one day to share with our son about the many people, from here to there, that gave to help us bring him home. Again, fundraising only works when others are willing to give, to invest in your cause. Adoption is certainly one of my favorite causes...and I am so thankful that so many of you feel the same way!

I think we'll be ready to share our new design next week. I hope that it brings you encouragement and a smile.

Have a great weekend!

Upping the Ante!

2012-02-02T09:04:00.003-05:00

The donations for our Bundle for my bundle has reached $120.

We have been offered a matching donation for $200.

A difference of $80, so

we are upping the ante!

We'll pick one person tomorrow for the bundle and another for a free t-shirt.

See HERE for the details!

Word on the blogs is that the EPs will begin flowing mid-February! I hope this word is correct!

Thank you for all the suggestions below...we are in the final stages of this next design. I hope you all like it as much as we do! :)

Need some help...

2012-02-01T08:45:00.002-05:00

We tried a change up on our "got love? adopt." logo about a month ago. If you remember we added a "give love..." Well, that didn't go well with the public! We only had a few sales and decided that it was too close to the original "got love?" shirts.

So...back to the drawing board!

After some recent conversations, we had an idea. One that is completely and totally different from our other designs but carries the same pro-adoption message. Tim got in his creative groove and viola!

We are hoping to get the image out in a few days but need some input. We are wanting to offer it, for a limited time, on 3-4 different color shirts and hope to include some long sleeve. Looking at our past t-shirt sales, black and pink are definitely the biggest sellers.

What color t-shirt would you like to see available? Leave me a color comment and you might just be picked to receive one of our new shirts for FREE!!!!

In case you forgot...flip those calendars over...it is FEBRUARY!! Come on EPs. We've got a son just a waitin' to come home!

Post Office joy!

2012-01-31T06:12:00.001-05:00

I am happy to say that since we moved our fundraising to the new site, we have been making regular trips to the post office. I don't mind doing it-each package is a reminder of the love and support we have received during this adoption process.

Several weeks ago there was a special package among the others to mail.

This one: destination South Korea.

A small box containing more love and prayers than any other.

I can only pray that it was felt when it arrived.

I hope our child's foster family can understand our letter of gratitude for their love and care.

I hope that our little one's feet are snug and warm in his new slippers. But mostly, as he looks at pictures of his forever family, I hope that some how through God's miraculous plan, his heart just knows we are coming.

Fundraising flash: We are placing the hoodie order on Wednesday. The bundle for my bundle matching donations is still in full swing. The generous total thus far is $105...but remember, there is a $200 match offer. See THIS POST for all the details!

What's in your junk drawer?

2012-01-27T08:16:00.004-05:00

Since last summer's yard sale we have had the cutest pair of brown Converse in our kitchen junk drawer. I'm not sure who put them there or why I let them stay there for 9ish months. As I would shuffle through looking for a notepad or pen, not an easy task, I would take a minute to notice the shoes and sometimes pray for the little feet that would wear them.

Now, I have a certain set of feet to picture wearing them. (Although, I haven't actually seen Carson's bare feet, I can only assume they are as cute and pudgy as the rest of him!)

(Please, don't pass judgement on my junk drawer. Just keeping it real. :)

We should receive some news next week about approximate travel time.

Our "Bundle for my bundle" donations are still being received. See Monday's post--we have graciously received $95, but have a matching donation of $200. If you have ever considered a donation toward our adoption fund, now would be a great time!

Our last hoodie order (until fall) will be next week. Shop www.gotloveadopt.com.

Have a great weekend. I think I'll be nesting.

The Perfect Shepherd

2012-01-25T09:09:00.003-05:00

"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep." John 10:11

I have always loved the verses in the Bible that referred to the Lord as the shepherd. I enjoy the picture of Him gathering and caring for his people, his herd, his sheep.

"Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture." Psalm 100:3

Before Jesus, there was not a leader that completely, unselfishly cared for the people. They did try, but being of human nature, their sin nature, they would at some point put themselves in front those they were called to protect.

"I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign Lord." Ezekiel 34:15

The only one who can truly tend to the sheep is the only one who can lay down his life--only to take it up again. If a shepherd wholeheartedly cared for his flock, he would be willing to die to protect it--but then his flock would be completely vulnerable, left with no protection at all. That is unless he beats death and returns to shepherding his herd. Jesus.

"He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young." Isaiah 40:11

God's perfect shepherd was and is His son.

We are valuable and vulnerable.

We are not a number. He knows us.

All sheep are valuable and vulnerable.

This includes the unborn and the fatherless.

How will they ever know the love of an earthly and, more importantly, heavenly Shepherd if they are snuffed out or left to navigate this world on their own.

They are valuable and extremely vulnerable.

They are not a number. He knows them.

Will you consider "shepherding" a lost sheep?

I am longing to hold my baby sheep.

A bundle for my bundle!

2012-01-23T06:58:00.002-05:00

Here is a chance to receive a "got love? adopt." bundle

to help me get to hold

my bundle.

Your bundle = 3 Minus 1 Project items of your choice

My bundle = our sweet son and brother

As many of you already know, we received and accepted a referral from South Korea at the end of November.

We are extremely hopeful that we will be traveling to bring him home within the next 3 months.

To help aid us in our funds, we are offering 3 items from our fundraising site,

www.gotloveadopt.com.

Your choice of items (jewelry and hoodies are exempt, sorry. We don't "stock" those.)

The possibilities are endless:

For every $5 donation, we will "thank you" with one entry.

You can design the perfect bundle of adoption gear for you.

Only one person will get to pick their prize bundle but EVERY entry takes us one step closer to holding and bringing home the perfectly created bundle for us.

I just now (Mon. 10:30 am) received an email offering to double every donate up to $200. If you have ever felt led to donate to our adoption fund..now is the time! I am in tears...so thankful.

Thank you!

Bundle winner revealed Friday, Feb. 4.

New t-shirt logo

2012-01-20T14:31:00.001-05:00

After the many comments we have been receiving and much pondering we have decided on a new shirt logo.

It goes like this:

Front of shirt

"Yes, thank you, we are well aware of the cost of college tuition and we are adopting another child anyway."

Back of shirt

"Have a great day!"

What do you think? ;)

Tune back in on Monday for a fun way to help us finish out Carson's adoption!

Have a great weekend. Adopt on!

Josh Kelley - Naleigh Moon

2012-01-19T09:44:00.001-05:00

I came across this video this morning and had to share. Finally, a music video that is worth watching. Take a minute to watch. I have read that Katherine Heigl is very close to her sister that was adopted from Korea.

I love the adoption ripple effect!

(-1) Hoodie anyone?

2012-01-18T15:20:00.003-05:00

I've received several emails asking about our Minus 1 hoodies. They are back on our fundraising site.

Every adoption = minus 1 orphan.

Miscellaneous Monday

2012-01-16T10:32:00.000-05:00

I haven't written one of these random posts in a while. I am finding it fitting as our life is very random right now. So here is a glimpse into our days this month.

1. The word on the street is that the Korean Ministry will not be issuing any EPs this month. EP=exit permission AND the last thing we need before we can arrange our travel to bring Carson home. For us, this is a bit frustrating, but for many families that have been waiting much, much longer it is undoubtably heartbreaking. Please pray for the Korean ministry to move forward with the best interest of the children that are waiting.

2. After looking over past posts, I realized I didn't post anything from Christmas. We, did indeed, celebrate and here are some pictures to prove it!

Lucy's Gingerbread Mermaid..no idea.

3. Ben came down the other day to let me know that his math lesson had a very strange question. He was convinced his word problem read Sarah left the house and returned at particular times. But it asked "What is the length of the manatee?" I think we need to get out more often...the word was matinee. (At least he knew what a manatee was!)

4. I am a bit disappointed that we have reached mid-January without a decent snowfall. If you have some...please send it our way! I'm convinced that this is because for the first year, I think, we had to buy boots for both boys. You know they are remaining in the bag with the tags and receipt in case we don't get to use them...thank you, Walmart!

5. If you have ever considered a small pet, the guinea pig is the one to try. This thing is so cute! (I did an early post on Smokey.) He seriously has such a happy personality. His cage sits in Ben's room at the end of the hallway. Whenever anyone comes up the steps he jumps up on his house that Ben made him for Christmas and just squeals. So funny during the day, not so much late at night or early in the morning. He does the same thing when he hears a bag crinkle, assuming it is a treat for him.

6. I am amazed at what my four can accomplish during a 15-20 minute school break. Last week this is where I found them.

Amazing, as well, how quickly it is constructed but how long it takes to clean up! I'm not even sure that all the cushions have been returned.

7. We are working at adding some amazing jewelry to our store. Here is a sneak peek--remember we only have one of each. Another great idea for Valentine's day. Pass our fundraising site, www.gotloveadopt.com, on to the one who loves you!

8. And I leave you with a picture that colors a thousand words:

Have a wonderful Monday!

Jumpin' on the Seoul Train...

2012-01-14T10:55:00.000-05:00

I found these shirts from a fundraising South Korean adoptive family. I bought one for myself and when it arrived, I wished I had bought them for my boys, too. (I am hoping to give the shirts to them for Valentine's day.) I contacted the family and they weren't selling them any more but gave me the name of the company, Fund the Nations, that had the design.

I'm trying to put together just one order--25 shirts. Please email me, takva73@gmail.com, if you would like to order one. You can donate through paypal or mail a check.

All three colors are available in sizes youth XS (4/5) through adult XXL.

$15 includes shipping

I600 Approval!

2012-01-12T14:16:00.000-05:00

Wow!

That is all I can say.

Tim walked in the door with our approval yesterday.

I was shocked.

As many of you know, the adoption process usually doesn't move very quickly.

Our I600 moved quickly....22 days quickly!!

That is the last piece of paperwork we were waiting on.

Now, we wait on the Korean government to issue an "exit permission".

EPs have been all over the board since last spring.

So, we are back to a wait and see.

But one thing I know....

we are one HUGE step closer to our son in South Korea.

One HUGE step closer to there being

MINUS ONE

orphan in the world.

The Frosty 5K

2012-01-11T10:09:00.000-05:00

Looking over pictures, I realized that I didn't do much posting around the holidays. I really do much better keeping up when my boys have school. When we are in our regular routine, even with homeschooling, I have more "alone" morning time. I use that term lightly because I am far from alone...but in a little less of in-demand than later in the day.

Our local running group had a 5K and mile race on Christmas Eve morning. Lindsey had been asking about doing a race.

She did a great job!

She waited with my dad while Tim, Ethan and I ran the 5K.

She was so excited about her medal and wore it for several days.

Lucy was quite impressed with the medal.

And I was quite impressed that as she hobbled around the next day, she kept asking about when she could do her next race. She definitely has her grandpop's genes! :)

If you "got love?"...

2012-01-09T14:34:00.000-05:00

you need to "give love".

"One gives freely, yet grows all the richer..." ~Proverbs 11:24

"Changing children's lives does not require expensive playthings. Human contact is the most important ingredient." ~Half the Sky foundation

A small change up on our simple logo. If you have got love...then give it away. There are millions who wait to be loved and to know the love of the Lord and a forever family.

These shirts are available in pink and black, long and short sleeve, youth - adult sizes.

The long sleeve pink is a fitted style.

Shop today: www.gotloveadopt.com and help us bring Carson home!

Our first order will be mailed out in time for Valentines Day...just say'n! :)

Amanda--you're the winner of our new shirt. email me your short sleeve color choice/size.

Jan. GiVeAwAy...after I get off my soapbox!

2012-01-06T19:01:00.001-05:00

A friend posted on Facebook, that as her adoptive daughter was recovering from surgery, a nurse asked her about her favorite things. She answered, "I have a daddy and 3 brothers." It made her mom (and me) tear up.

I love that her answer wasn't materialistic. She didn't answer college tuition, a Disney vacation, her own room, etc... These things are great, but I have heard all three used as reasons that people weren't adopting. I am not being judgmental here. I am simply stated some reasons that others have given to me. I think of the millions that are waiting...I don't think they are waiting and thinking of how much their college will cost their forever families.

I know as parents we need to be realistic and wise but I don't think that the rising cost of college, vacations, and house sizes should dictate our family sizes.

And now I step down (from my soapbox) and ask the give away question:

If you have love, what should you do with it?

(Besides the obvious...adopt.)

Leave your guess and if you're correct you might just win our new shirt! Design and winner to be revealed on Monday. If this is too hard, we'll add a clue on Sunday.

A Lindsey in Carson clothing.

2012-01-05T07:02:00.000-05:00

Be ordinary in 2012

2012-01-02T18:50:00.000-05:00

Have you already set out all your resolutions and "hope for"s for the new year?

Here is a challenge for you...be ordinary. In a world where the best looking and most athletic seem to win...be simple. Where the outspoken and persuasive seem to be heard...be insignificant. Where the prestigious and famous seem to get noticed...be weak.

And here is why: "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. (1 Co 1:27)

I want to be chosen by God. I want to be used in anyway that the Lord chooses. God's Word is full of ordinary things that were used in incredible ways. Here's a few: a staff to part the sea, a sling and stone to kill a giant, a bag lunch to feed thousands, a stutterer to deliver His messages, a young virgin to give birth. All these were insignificant until God chose to use them. In God's hands we aren't insignificant. He will use all that we allow Him to.

Bringing it home...as I type this out, in my lap is a small, stuffed lion that is heading to South Korea this week. (We have been passing it around the house and snuggling it so it will smell like us!) It soon, I hope, will be snuggled by one very snuggly boy that has yet to know the love of a daddy and mommy. And shortly after, I hope, we will be traveling to, ourselves, snuggle this little boy and tell him that he is ours and he is loved. That is extraordinary!

In our lives when we are willing to answer "yes" to the Lord's calling...remarkable things happen. They certainly don't occur because we in and of ourselves are anything. We just need to be willing, to be obedient in the big and small, to lay down our lives so that He can use our ordinary, simple, insignificant and weak parts in extraordinary ways.

Happy New Year!

Can it be?

2011-12-31T13:53:00.001-05:00

The last day of 2011!

I would have to say that the past year has been filled with adoption ups and downs. I remember my heart ache when we learned in April that there would be no more EPs for the Korean program for 2011. And how that mourning was turned to dancing the minute I saw Carson's face!

Seriously, looking forward to 2012 and bringing our fifth child home.

(And getting back to school so I can get my computer time/blogging time back in the morning. I am looking forward to catching up on many of your posts!)

As you reflect on the past year and look forward to the new, pray about adoption. There are millions and millions who wait, wait for someone to extend the hand of hope.

Maybe 2012 is the year for you and your family?!

Merry Christmas...

2011-12-24T17:18:00.003-05:00

from the Apisas...

plus 1!

Just arrived...only 2 left!!

2011-12-17T14:49:00.006-05:00

I took this necklace off the store site last week because we sold so many and didn't think we would get anymore in before Christmas BUT in true elf fashion, Kalina shipped what had sold AND 4 more.

If you order one of these this weekend: FREE shipping and delivery ensured by Christmas.

I'll do my best to update as they sell.

$25 donation (through paypal or check)

Thank you, again.

Don't forget about the FREE t-shirt deal below.

On last sale: FREE t-shirt!

2011-12-16T10:11:00.001-05:00

One day soon, this blog will be flooded with pictures of my 5 kids and deep insights on life.

But today...another sale.

I'm a bit over it, too, but feel like we need to at least sell as much of our inventory as we can.

At this point, we paid for our referral fees but still have travel and finalization to cover.

Please bear with me, because I do have other things to share.

But today...another sale.

Every $30 or more this weekend will receive a FREE t-shirt.

We will ensure delivery by Christmas if your order is placed before Sun. midnight.

Order here:

www.gotloveadopt.com

Leave me a comment or email as to which design (got love? or (-1)) and size. You can leave a color choice but understand if needed I may need to substitute for what is in stock, but I will try to send your first choice!

Thank you for still following and reading through the fundraising stuff.

Stocking Stuffers Reduced!

2011-12-15T08:34:00.004-05:00

Are you looking for a stocking stuffer or two?

We have several items that would fit perfectly.

On sale, this week or until they are gone, with no shipping costs!

(We accept donations through paypal or checks.)

There is only one of each of the following:

Key Fobs-were $12, now $11

1st fob (polka dots)--SOLD

2nd fob (brown/pink)--SOLD

3rd fob (blue)--SOLD

5th down (orange with silver disk)--SOLD

6th fob (black)--SOLD

Leather braided bracelets--were $14, now $12

Minus 1 bracelet--SOLD

Love bracelet--SOLD

Oval Charm on Leather rope--was $17, now $15

"got love? adopt." flower charm on black leather rope necklace-was $26, now $24

We only have one of each of these items--You may want to email before donating to be sure it is still available, takva73@gmail.com. I'll update as things sell.

Thank you so much for helping us clear out our inventory AND build up our funds to bring Carson home!!

I have said it before... fundraising is only successful when people-friends-choose to invest in your cause. Thank you!

Bringing home our Christmas tree...

2011-12-12T14:12:00.000-05:00

Apisa style!

Final Sale Day

2011-12-09T08:04:00.003-05:00

Today is the last day to get the sale price on our travel cups.

All colors are still available.

They're really moving off the shelves--actually out of the boxes in our basement--so order yours soon!!

www.gotloveadopt.com

Warm and sunny beach vacation not included. :)

Food Photography

2011-12-07T10:31:00.000-05:00

I don't think I have ever posted pictures of food that I have made. I think all of you know what Ragu sauce poured right out of the jar on top of hot store brand noodles looks like. So, I spare you the post. :)

But this Sweet Party Mix is worth sharing. It is an easy, delightful snack year round but also makes for a nice teacher or neighbor gift. So here goes....

1. In a large bowl mix 8 cups of corn or rice square cereal, 2 cups pretzels knots, 1 cup sliced almonds. (We left out the almonds this year since nuts can be pricey. It is still just as yummy.)

2. In a medium saucepan combine: I always double this!

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

6 Tbs butter

3Tbs light colored corn syrup

Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture boils. Continue boiling at a moderate, steady rate, without stirring for 5 more minutes. Remove pan from heat.

3. Dump the dry mix on baking sheets (I use cookie sheets) and pour the hot liquid mixture over the cereal mixture; stir gently to coat. It won't cover all the dry mix but don't worry, it will.

4. Bake at 300 degrees for 15 minutes; stir and bake 5 minutes more. Remove from oven; stir in 1-2 cups dried cranberries.

5. Spread on a large piece of buttered or sprayed foil to cool. Break into pieces.

Dont' forget to check out the sales going on at the store:

www.minus1project.com

All travel straw cups and Minus 1 gear is on sale.

We need to clear out our inventory and get our son home!!

Back by popular demand and a SaLe!!

2011-12-06T13:12:00.001-05:00

The pink travel cup with lid and straw (BPA Free).

They just arrived today...and I would love to sell them out by tomorrow!

ON SALE.

ALL TRAVEL CUPS WITH LID AND STRAW!

THE REST OF THIS WEEK ONLY: $9.95

(Starting Dec. 10 the price will return to $13.95)

"What is good?" Micah 6:8 shirts

2011-12-05T15:07:00.012-05:00

One size fits all stockings AND helps bring our son, Carson, home!!!!!!!!

I have had several emails lately asking if we were still selling the

What is good?

t-shirts.

We don't have them on the fundraising store but still have some in stock at our house.

We have several colors but limited size choices.

I would love to clear them out!

Please, email me first (takva73@gmail.com) to be sure that the color/size choice is still available.

We have dark heather (grey), pink, navy blue, orange and a few tye dye (which are so fun!). We have adult mediums and larges with one adult Xlarge and youth large in grey.

$17 (includes shipping and a FREE "got love? adopt." car decal!)

Want a new family tradition?

2011-12-04T11:56:00.006-05:00

I wrote this post last year on what to do with Santa Clause. I intended to share it sooner for anyone who might want to celebrate St. Nicolas Day.

This may not be a question you've asked yourself, but as Ethan got older, we struggled a bit with this. I felt like I sat on the fence: The idea of Santa Claus is so magical, exciting and fun but it also seemed to distract from the true reason of the season. I wasn't so comfortable with telling the tale and having my children wait in anticipation of Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, but I also didn't want to have the one kid who "spoiled" Christmas for all the other preschoolers!! :)

As we approached the Christmas when Ethan was 2, I read the story of the evolution of Santa Claus. I was surprised to learn that it derived from the true tale of a Christ loving man by the name of Nicholas. His love for the needy is inspirational. He demonstrated the gift of mercy as he cared for the poor.

I couldn't remember ever learning this. He died in 343 AD and his good deeds made known and people began to celebrate St. Nicholas Day. Over time, with the change and corruption of leaders his saint title was altered and he became known as Father Christmas in much of the world. There is much more to the story of how this real man came to be a chubby, red suited gift giver. I think every family needs to decide how to celebrate Christmas.

With the help of Martha Zimmerman in her book Celebrating the Christian Year, we began celebrating "Sinterklass" like they do in Holland. The beauty of celebrating a holiday like this is that you can choose your day. We aim to have it around Dec. 6, but coordinate it with our tree and Christmas decorating. (We also do it on a weekend so Tim won't have to rush out to work). We read the book The Story of St. Nicolas: More Than Reindeer and a Red Suit. This is a great book with beautiful illustrations. It explains so sweetly the story of Nicholas and how today we can celebrate HIM in Santa Claus--so you can tell your kids he is real and they won't spoil anyone else's family celebrations! :) That night the kids put their shoes out because Nicholas would throw money and food through open windows. Some was always caught in the shoes and socks that were put there to dry.

You can purchase the book here at Voice of the Martyrs.

Drumroll please..........

2011-12-02T10:33:00.002-05:00

And we couldn't be more happy!

Our new son will be one this month.

He is adorable.

He has two teeth and can stand on his own.

He is chubby.

And all around perfect!

Carson Kye Louis, you are exactly what this family needed!

Thank you for all the sweet well wishes and hollers of praise!

Out of all the correct "boy" guessers, Kristy K., was picked for our new color combo t-shirt. So new, in fact, that I don't even have a picture of it yet--but hopefully I can add it to this post this later today or tomorrow.

In honor of our exciting news--ALL MINUS 1 GEAR IS ON SALE THIS WEEKEND!!! I have dropped the prices on the

(-1) Burn-out baseball tee and regular tee shirt and Minus 1 jewelry.

Each order will include a FREE car decal, too!

Shop...www.minus1project.com

From now until about Dec. 19th, we'll be offering discounts and incentives to buy from our fundraising site. This momma has a sweet son to bring home!! :)

Our phone rang....

2011-11-30T20:33:00.000-05:00

on November 21 with some very excellent news!!

You didn't think I could just reveal our last picture without a contest, did you? Leave us a comment as to whether you think our sweet, new addition is a boy or girl. We'll draw a name Friday morning from the winning guessers to win a new, not-sold-in-our-store yet "got love? adopt." t-shirt.

(If you already know the answer and want to be included...leave me a comment telling us to include your name.)

"Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what He has done."

1 Chronicles 16:8

(The Nov. winner with the correct date guess was Brooke A.)

Small Business Saturday

2011-11-25T16:58:00.003-05:00

Did you know that tomorrow is

"Small Business Saturday"?

Did you know that Minus 1 Project (-1) is a small business store?

www.gotloveadopt.com

Tomorrow is the last day to get your FREE t-shirt with $50 and more orders.

Leave your design choice ((-1) or got love? adopt.) and size choice in the comment section and we'll include it with your order.

A sincere thank you for choosing to invest in our small business but more importantly in the life of a little one an ocean away.

Tonight's menu.....

2011-11-23T10:45:00.000-05:00

pretzel sticks, popcorn, jelly beans and toast.

It is our Thanksgiving Eve tradition to eat the above while watching

Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving.

Try it tonight...your kids will love it and your husband, well, he'll probably sneak upstairs to eat some leftover meat and potatoes! :)

But it makes for a very fun family time.

Be thankful.

Enjoy your family.

Happy Thanksgiving Eve.

WE'VE GOT OUR SALE ON. Shop with us: FREE t-shirt deal this week

2011-11-21T13:51:00.000-05:00

I have been reminded by blogs, commercials, emails, and facebook walls that Christmas in right around the shopping corner.

Every store is pulling out its deal busters to get your business...including ours.

Let the sale begin.

Every order $50 or more placed on our store

www.gotloveadopt.com

starting today through Nov. 26 will receive a FREE t-shirt.

I know there is a shopping code for check out on the yahoo store BUT I'm not quite savvy enough for that and I have a sick kiddo so...

Place your $50 or more order and in the comment section leave me your size and design choice between (-1) and "got love? adopt."

We will include your FREE shirt in your package as a thank you for choosing to shop with us.

*Note: We will choose the color for the free "got love? adopt." tee from our in-stock colors.

Just hear those sleigh bells jingle....

Let's clear the air...

2011-11-16T12:08:00.000-05:00

I want to be sure that we are all clear on something. It was brought to my attention while reading an article on adoption. There was a line that read something to the affect that children do not want to be projects. Adoption shouldn't be viewed as a missions project.

Can you see where I'm going with this? Our blog title.

I want to clarify that from the beginning the "project" in our Minus 1 Project has NEVER been our child, but the means to which our family would work, sacrifice, save to bring our son/daughter/sister/brother home.

I sincerely hope that no one has come across our blog and thought otherwise.

If I had a dime for every time I heard, "We would love to adopt, if it didn't cost so much", well, let's just say, our fundraising would be complete. :) We certainly had financial concerns when starting this second adoption. I think most families do. That is when we began thinking of projects that we could do as a family to save and earn money to complete this adoption. A challenge, if you will, to show people you don't have to be rich and famous to adopt.

I started reading blogs and seeing what others were doing to fundraise. It was then that we decided to start a blog and try our hand at selling the idea of "got love? adopt.". Like every good blog, we needed a catchy title and that is when we came up with Minus 1 Project. Our blog would document all of our little projects, from an empty orange juice container for change to a neighborhood bbq, in hopes of inspiring other families to get up, get out and work some projects to make adoption a possibility for their family.

Again: the projects are what we have done to fundraise, not the little one our family's hearts are dying to see.

Over the last year and half, we have been amazed at how our project has grown. Our orange juice container still sits on our counter and collects our spare change

but we now have a inventory notebook and order log to keep up with. To say we are a bit amazed would be an understatement. We are humbled by the hundreds of people, many in the midst of their own Minus 1 Projects (adoptions), that invest in ours.

Through this post, I hope you see my family's heart for adoption. Adoption has changed us. It has changed our priorities and what we thought were our needs. This child, even though we have yet to see him/her, is the drive behind every project we do, whether big or small.

He or she--is worth it.

(And "Minus 1 Project" is a bit more catchy than Apisas Plus 1...although I'd love to have a blog title change in our very near future! :)

Purchases with a Purpose

2011-11-15T08:18:00.003-05:00

It is that time of year again.

Forty days until Christmas.

Most of us have gifts to buy.

I've got a bit of a challenge to hand out:

Try to make your purchases count twice. There are so, so many families out there working hard to create and sell items to raise money to complete their adoptions.

I have seen some wonderful-not sold in store-items that would delight any gift receiver.

Why give your money to Target, Belk, Walmart, etc....

Please take a few minutes to look over the links posted on

THE CHRISTMAS FRENZY

and hand out two blessings with every gift!

Last but certainly not least...

2011-11-14T08:42:00.000-05:00

Ben's birthday!

Ben turned 11 yesterday.

He had to get to his swim meet before the sun was up so we decorated and celebrated later in the day.

He is already looking forward to his next birthday when he can sleep in.

(The big home swim meet is always this weekend in Nov. so last year he had to get up early, too.)

He was very excited to get a hiking backpack as he is looking forward to moving up to Ethan's Boy Scout Troop in March. He wants to hike with the big dogs! :) I'm excited for them to get to do that together.

Last week Ben said several times how great it would be if we got our referral on his birthday. He might be the most anxious of us all to see his sibling's face!

This boy has such a sweet and gentle heart when it comes to little ones.

And just as the saying goes: All good things must come to an end....Our birthday celebrations are over and now we are on to a week of check ups. From birthday cakes to booster shots!! I'll spare you the pictures and blog posts.

Have a great week!

Hoodie orders

2011-11-12T17:24:00.004-05:00

Our first HOODIE order is being placed on Monday.

Come on, make my day, order a hoodie.

Shop www.gotloveadopt.com.

You, me and a little one across the ocean will be glad you did.

A Teenager in the House!

2011-11-11T10:23:00.000-05:00

As of yesterday, we have a teenager living in our house. I'm trying decide which birthday was harder to except: My baby turning 5 or my oldest turning 13. I think it is a toss up!

We aren't big birthday party throwers but we felt like 13 deserved a bit more attention, so we planned a surprise party for Ethan last Sunday. He returned home from swim practice to 6 of his best buddies and a 29 gallon fish tank!!

Here they are waiting for Ethan to get home. (We cracked up at how the girls were just hanging out in the midst of all these boys!)

The boys all gifted $5 toward Ethan's fish tank fund. (They wrote their name on a fish and attached their gift.) He has been asking for a big tank with cabinet for a while now. You can imagine my excitement when about 2 months ago my neighbor mentioned that her father, who lives locally, was getting rid of his. SCORE!!

He was definitely surprised!! and extremely happy, too!!

Now, to yesterday, his actual birthday: Good Morning, Teenager!

Ethan brings so much adventure to our family. He is always looking for the next outdoorsy thing to do. I have come to be very thankful that he is home for school, giving me many more hours with him than I would have if he wasn't home schooled. They really do grow up fast and I am realizing what a privilege, all be it hard sometimes, to spend so much time together. I've come to appreciate his maturing conversation skills and sense of humor!

Lucille is...

2011-11-09T09:26:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was Lucy's fifth birthday.

I remember being so uncertain when we found out we were expecting. Our paperwork had been in China for over a year and, silly us, we thought we would be seeing our Chinese daughter's photo any day.

I was shocked and thrilled...but so afraid that it would disrupt our adoption. My heart was so in love with a little Chinese baby girl I hadn't seen yet. The miracle of adoption: I was completely devoted to my daughter a ocean away.

I wasted the next few weeks feeling guilty over not being thrilled with my pregnancy and fearful our adoption would never be complete.

As God's timing would have it, the Chinese program continued to slow down, our agency approved our desire to continue with our adoption and our sweet Lucille was born!

Eight months later, we boarded a plane to meet our second daughter.

And we have the privilege of raising our "virtual twins" born 3 months apart.

Moral of the story: God's timing, period.

Blogger's Block

2011-11-05T12:04:00.000-04:00

The past couple of weeks I've had some blogger's block.

I'm going to attribute it to the anticipation in my heart in seeing my fifth child's face! My curiosity is on overload: boy or girl, chubby or thin, hair or hairless, age, etc... I can only equate it to the last days of pregnancy when you wake up wondering is this the day?

We are also working on updating our fingerprints and homestudy--thank you, Korean government for the delay so we could have some more fees and paperwork! :)

And since my mind is occupied with our referral...I'll ask you to join me!

For our end-of-the-month give away, I ask you to take a guess as to when our referral will arrive. (Actually the day of "the call" as we will receive the referral packet with picture the next day.)

I'll start a chart of names and guesses--the correct day guessers will go in a hat and a winner picked at the end of the month. If we don't receive our referral this month then we will just pick a name at random to win a Minus 1 Project fundraising item.

Next week begins our Birthday Craziness--3 birthdays in 5 days!

If you don't hear from me, I'll be buried in birthday decorations crashing from my birthday cake sugar high--

as if the bags of candy corn I've consumed isn't enough!!

(new necklace with or without earrings, just added to the store)

A great gift idea...the kind that gives twice!

Bring on the guesses--more importantly, bring on our referral!!

Secretly, I'd love for this game to end by Monday, lunchtime! :)

The Roberts Six

2011-11-01T14:44:00.001-04:00

Thanks to the blogging world, my path has been crossed with a sweet family that work with Samaritan's Purse International Relief in Nairobi, Kenya. They brought their son home from Ethiopia this past summer and work tirelessly for the people in and near their village. I wanted to share a recent post of hers and ask that you consider a donation--of any amount.

Before reading: picture your children as they play in and outside of your home. Think of their comfort and safety that you are so blessed to be able to provide for them.

After reading: seriously consider if you could make a donation for this real need. You can find all of the Roberts' contact information on their blog, The Roberts Six.

When you donate--any amount--leave me a comment or email letting me know (I don't want to know the amount) and we will enter your name in to win a "got love? adopt" or (-1) hoodie. Let's all pitch in to help and bring a bit more freedom and peace to the children and caretakers!

We Need Help

Many of you know we work with an orphanage in Kenya. We have been trying to raise money to put a fence around the building there. The fence will cost about $3000USD, and we have about $1000USD so far. We just received an email this morning from Rosemary about the urgency of this need. They have had hyena and a leopard in the yard at night. The night guard is scared and won't come out of his building. Who wouldn't be scared of them?! A hyena actually came in the yard just the other day during the day. It scared the housemother, she couldn't go out of the home to use the bathroom, and was scared for the children coming back from school. The children are not able to go out of the home to use the outhouse either. So, they have to use a bucket inside. This is a real need. And we need help. Can you help? Please email

us if you are interested.

October GiVeAwAy!

2011-10-31T11:23:00.003-04:00

Ten of you guessed it

and

Brittney A. you win it!

Our newest fundraising items now available are hand crafted

"got love? adopt"

Christmas Ornaments.

I was having trouble getting good pictures. I finally gave up so I could post.

These pictures don't truly capture the cuteness of these ornaments.

The are so pretty and festive.

They are available to purchase on our store site,

www.minus1project.com

In case you needed a push to start your Christmas shopping...every order of $50 or more starting today through November 10th will receive a free Christmas ornament.

Letter finder:

Post on the 28th: o c a

Post on the 27th: n i m m s

Post on the 26th: t h r t

Post on the 24th: e n a r s

--in that order.

So far...

2011-10-30T14:00:00.001-04:00

we have received 7 correct guesses on our new fundraising item. If you haven't tried yet, give it a whirl. Rules and directions are on Sunday, Oct. 23 post. Join in the brain-teasing fun!

More photography fun and the last letters!

2011-10-28T10:35:00.002-04:00

Upon seeing yesterday's post, Ben reminded me of some great action/silly shots he took with our camera of the girls. I wanted to be sure to share those, too!

This is the final letter-revealing post before the Monday winning post.

It is being posted early so that Mrs. Matthew's class has more time to work on the unscrambling!! :) Get to work, kids!

Be sure to find all the bright colored letters in this and the 3 previous posts. Arrange and rearrange them to spell out our newest fundraising item.

--Remember don't comment here with your guess. Email, takva73@gmail.com or message me through facebook. All guesses need to be received by Sunday, midnight.

Thanks for playing along. Have a great weekend!

Photography Fun!

2011-10-27T13:36:00.015-04:00

Ethan enjoys dabbling in a bit of photography. His favorite subject as of late has been his sisters....like we've never seen them before. :)

Here are several of my favorites.

And like every true photographer, sometimes his timing is a bit off.

I think it is safe to say that he is looking forward to another little sibling to practice on!

(Add the colored letters to the others in the previous posts to spell out our new fundraising item...all rules are on Sun. , Oct. 23 post. And remember: DON'T leave your guess here as a comment for all to see!)

Hoodie weather

2011-10-26T07:31:00.001-04:00

I'm not sure about where you live but here it is close to hoodie weather.

I really like wearing old jeans and a big, comfy hoodie.

Well, I really like wearing jammie pants with a hoodie but seeing that I'm well past the college years, I can't seem to bring myself to wear them in public.

I'm excited to post that for a limited time, Minus 1 Project will be selling hoodies.

We have three styles to choose from.

They're available to purchase now on our store site, www.gotloveadopt.com.

(Hoodie orders may take 3-4 weeks to arrive. Be aware of the possible delay.)

These will only be available for a limited time: Order now!

In other fundraising news: all the (-1) shirts arrived this week, were packaged up and mailed out!

Until the weather turns about 15 degrees colder and/or my (-1) hoodie arrives, which ever comes first, I'll be wearing my (-1) baseball tee.

This is now my new favorite top to go with my jammie pants! :) Please tell me I'm not the only one who leaves on jammie pants until the last minute and then slips on "real" pants right before needing to leave the house.

(photography by Lucy)

*Find the colored letters and get in the game...see post below (Oct. 23) for all the details.

Geocaching

2011-10-24T09:44:00.003-04:00

Our family has a new favorite hobby:

GEOCACHING

If you have never heard of it or have never tried it, the best place to start is at www.geocaching.com .

In a nutshell, there are small geocaching boxes hidden all over the United States. You can put in your address under the "Hide and Seek Cache". A map (that can be downloaded to your phone) will show where you can find the boxes. And then the hunt begins!

The boxes are typically filled with trinkets, a log book and pencil. Rule has it that if you take a trinket, you need to put one in. (Our kids each take a few things with them in case they want to trade out for what they find.) You can purchase geocache travel bugs and coins that are trackable. It is a really neat activity to watch your "bug" travel from box to box. (The person who moves it, registers the movement on line.)

I really should have Ethan writing this post--he is much more in the know about this. He's even made his own box that is hidden not too far from our house.

It does make for a very fun, free family outing especially on a beautiful fall day.

You never know where the map will lead you.

Just beware...you may run into some wild animals during your search!

*taken on Tim's phone yesterday while searching for a geocache box.

(Don't forget to collect the colored letters and begin to arrange them to spell out our new fundraising item. See post below for details.)

The unscrambler is back!

2011-10-23T16:01:00.001-04:00

We have a new item that we are adding to the store next week. I realized it should arrive just in time for our end-of-the-month give-away!!

Here are the rules:

-Over the next week some letters in my blog posts will be in color. (To insure that they stand out easily.)

-All the letters in the name of our new fundraising item will be revealed by Fri. 10/28.

-You need to email, takva73@gmail.com, or message me through facebook your guess. Don't leave your guess here as a comment!

-You may guess as often as you like.

-All guesses must be in by Sun. 10/30 evening.

-The names of all the correct guessers will go in a pot.

-Winner and our new item will be posted Mon. 10/31

The girls' whereabouts during school hours.

2011-10-21T11:59:00.001-04:00

Since Lindsey came home, I've been asked many times..."What do you do with the girls during school time?"

The question for this school year should be..."What do the girls do during school time?"

Note the difference in questions?

During the past few years the boys have taken turns doing school with me while the other entertained the girls. I also schooled with one girl on my back (in the carrier) and the other bouncing on my hip when they were really little.

This year has been much better as far as interruptions from the girls. The two of them, for the most part, play wonderfully together with one problem. They manage to completely destroy what ever room or rooms they play in. I have decided that is the trade off for us being able to get school done in a timely and suffcient manner.

So here we have a picture of the girls engaged in a good school time activity:

They spent the longest time "reading" books to each other. When they had finished I don't think there was one book left on our big book shelf.

On the flip side,

after school the other day, I went upstairs to find this:

and their dresser looking like this:

and me scratching my head as to why they would think this was a good idea or how they got up high enough to hang clothes from the curtain rod.

The clothes are still hanging there because that's how we roll...that is until our social worker comes to do our homestudy update in a few weeks. :)

The unscrambler returns to the blog on Monday for our October give-away.

Have a restful weekend before I start giving you letters that will keep some of you up at night...you know who you are! :)

Motion of Mercy

2011-10-19T08:29:00.001-04:00

That's the motion of mercy, Changing the way and the why we are

That's the motion of mercy, Moving my heart

Living for the lost, Loving 'til it hurts

No matter what the cost, Like you loved me first

That's the motion of mercy

God give me strength, to give something for nothing

I want to be a glimpse, of Your kingdom that's coming soon.

This song would be the follow up to my post on The Adoption Alteration (see below). I hope it encourages you, like it does me, to make an effort to extend a motion of mercy to others.

The early bird....

2011-10-17T07:37:00.002-04:00

gets the Tervis tumber!!!

The adoption alteration.

2011-10-13T12:29:00.001-04:00

Our subdivision consists of super fancy houses, moderate homes and some apartments. The apartments are mostly family housing for the university. There are many international families that live there. I love how the playgrounds near the apartments are usually like a mini-U.N. meeting--if only the real nations could get along like the kiddos at the playground!

The other evening I sat and chatted with a Chinese couple while the girls played on the playground. They were very interested in Lindsey. I was a bit concerned because after every question, they would converse in Chinese leaving me wondering what they had to say about this American lady.

As it got dark, we both decided we'd better be getting home. As I called for the girls, the wife came over and put her hand on my shoulder. I wasn't sure where this was headed until I saw the tears in her eyes. In her soft, broken English she told me that she has seen young girls on the streets of Beijing. She went on to say, "There is no life for orphan in China, she have no future, you have changed her destiny, she has family, she has sister, she has love, if she was left in China she have no one. You save her life, you change her destiny."

Now with tears in my eyes, I sincerely thanked her for her kind words. I assured her that we were the fortune ones. I explained to her how Lindsey has brought so much laughter and love into our family and that we love her incredibly. We agreed to meet up again another day.

As we walked home in our usual fashion, Lucy in the stroller and Lindsey speeding ahead on her bike, I thought about what she said. We have heard stories of the lives of orphans once they age out but she has seen it. She, maybe better than most, understood the awful truth of what Lindsey's life could or would have been. Broke my heart.

I then came to a new realization about my daughter's adoption. And as much as her life was altered due to our family's decision to adopt, I thought the real truth is that the Lord has used her to change my "destiny".

The purpose and plans for our family have been forever altered. There is such a powerful truth in adoption. The truth that we were loved long before we were born. We were chosen for no reason other than we were loved. The Lord didn't fear opening His heart and family to us. He certainly knew our adoption was not always going to be rainbows and unicorns and yet He adopted us anyway. He looked past all the "what ifs" and invited us in. He continues to love and accept us and keep us as we fall short.

Adoption? Be ready to have your "destiny" altered.

Encouragment

2011-10-12T06:58:00.002-04:00

Last week I received a very encouraging email along with some super cute pictures. The sender, Mary, captured so well the purpose and heart of our Minus 1 Project that I wanted to share it.

"The more that see, the more will hear Him and the more Minus 1 orphans there will be. These shirts are going to give that person who was thinking about adoption, a nudge. The one who never really thought about it, a tug. And there will be less orphans."

Thank you, Mary and all of you who have purchased and wear our fundraising shirts.

Families stepping up and out to find their children and bringing them home.

Now, that's a Minus 1 Project!

Burn-out week!

2011-10-10T07:34:00.001-04:00

Am I burned out?

Oh...no!!

The constant peace from my Lord, positive news coming from our agency, the lovely fall weather, some great new fundraising items and my perfect children are giving me some renewed strength in the wait.

(Did you catch the joke about my perfect children?)

What is burned out, then?

The Minus 1 Project Big League baseball tee.

American Apparel

Burnout fabric with a vintage worn-in feel.

This will seriously be your most comfy shirt and if it isn't the most comfortable shirt you own, we'll refund your money...after our little one is home, that is! :)

--we are placing the order for the baseball and white/black (-1) shirts this week. Order yours today, HERE, to ensure we have your needed size and your wait for delivery is short!

And just to be sure that you don't think, that I think my kids are perfect, take a peek at what the girls did the other day:

(I never thought I would need to vacuum out the inside of the dishwasher.)

I hope you have a great, burned-out (ordering) week! :)

Bear with me here...

2011-10-07T12:36:00.000-04:00

I came across this quote from Ryan Bomberger in an article written about Steve Jobs.

"It's amazing to me that, in 2011, especially among Christians, how foreign a concept adoption is. Adoption is the essence of salvation. There is no Christianity without adoption, in the spiritual sense. Yet, in the physical sense, it is rarely considered an option"

It is rarely considered an option. Wow! I read and reread this--posted in on facebook hoping others would read and think about the impact of this statement. Do most people not even consider adoption an option. Do they quickly dismiss it as it's great for you, but just not for me options?

It kind of took me back to the old question: Is every Christian called to adopt? And I REALLY got to thinking--dangerous and scary all in one! You know the saying, thinking out loud? Well, I'm here blogging out loud. I'm not trying to offend or accuse. I am in no way saying that I am right, just blogging.

Do we need to be called to give food to the hungry. Do you need the Lord to speak and confirm whether or not you should offer some money to a family who needs some extra to make it to the next month? Do you need to wait and wait for a clear answer before helping someone in need?

Now, I completely understand that adopting a child is much bigger than taking a meal or writing a check. And I am not under minding those things--they are needed and can speak volumes of love and servanthood.

What I'm contemplating is the need for the lighting bolt answer or push to adopt. Should it not, at most, be an option. The orphan crisis is huge--stretching from local to international. The number of Christian families is much larger across the globe than the number of adoptable orphans.

"We have the opportunity to unleash purpose in a child waiting to be loved. All I know is that loving them unconditionally, adopted or biological, will allow their God-given purpose to flourish"

Shouldn't this opportunity at least be an option for all of us?

You can read the article in its entirety HERE.

In the Wait

2011-10-05T15:13:00.004-04:00

We have heard some good news on the adoption front here. Referrals are set to pick back up in November and December--yes, next month!! :) We are one of the top families that have had their home study in Korea the longest--not a title we were going for, however because our wait has been close to 14 months our agency is hopeful we will be in the first batch of referrals.

Have they promised us? No.

Is my heart completely set on seeing my child's face by the end of 2011? No.

When you have been "in the wait", I think you learn to guard your heart a bit from getting too set on one scenerio because you know how quickly things can change.

And so I settle back into the wait. I am well aware (I remember from Lindsey) that the really hard wait begins after you've seen your child's face!

WAIT - to remain in readiness for some purpose

I like this.

I think it very well sums up my position here.

I remain waiting , am totally ready and so thankful for the purpose for my family's wait!

Adoption. It's worth every minute of waiting.

Smokey

2011-10-03T19:54:00.000-04:00

If you have been following this blog since the summer, you may remember my post about our beach trip and the hermit crab purchase. Here's a recap: Our boys have been asking for years and years to get hermit crabs at the beach. This year on a whim we said, "yes".

Upon returning home from the beach the boys played and played with the hermit crabs, well, as much as you CAN play with hermit crabs. Two out of the three have survived--hermit crabs, not children, although Ethan did get a nasty pinch on his thumb that required a band aid for several days!!

And you know the saying: give 'em an inch and they'll take a mile!?

And so it began: the asking for more pets. We are a bit limited because of allergies. When the boys were little (before the girls) we had a bunny. Ben managed to drag the old rabbit cage from the basement and clean it. He saved his money, convinced we would say yes to something that could live in that cage. We eventually agreed to a guinea pig.

Fast forward a week: we arrive to PetSmart for our pet purchase only to find out that they had free baby guinea pigs in the back. (FYI: Apparently, when a pet has babies at the store they cannot sell them. They often have small animal babies for adoption. Good to know: we like free and we love adoption! :)

--I did feel a bit uncomfortable with all the "adoption" talk about this rodent. I know I might be a bit sensitive with this issue, but it seemed a bit ridiculous using that term. There is an adoption center where you sign your papers and appropriately so, some of us were wearing our "got love?" shirts. I'm thinking the gal thought we were a bit nutso over guinea pig adoption!--

And so it is that Smokey has come to reside in our home.
I have to say...I am not a big fan of animals but this little guy is really cute. He is very cuddly and personable as he squeaks at you when you enter the room and purrs while being scratched.

He fits right in around here!

End of the Month Celebration Give Away

2011-09-30T16:29:00.000-04:00

I arrived home today to this:

We opened them to find this:

Oh...the fun of it!

The shirts look awesome!

The onesies are adorable!

Some new and different key fobs that are so chic!

And Tervis tumblers leaving, even me, speechless!

(Note: $6.95 glasses)

So...I am refreshed and excited. I can't wait to package some of this gear up and get it mailed out to you! Fundraising really can be fun!

Thanks to all of you who found us on facebook or left me an encouraging comment.

Christy K. ,you are the winner of our new (-1) shirt. (white, unisex cut)

Orphans

2011-09-28T16:02:00.001-04:00

minus 1.

Minus 1 Project, your family's or mine, the goal and result are the same.

Millions wait.

Imagine if Minus 1 Projects caught on.

minus 1

minus another 1

and on and on...

Minus 1 Project...

support.

share.

encourage.

(American Apparel: 3/4 sleeve burnout fabric, vintage worn-in feel, AwEsOmE!)

(Guildan 100% cotton unisex cut)

SALE IS ON.

And not only until our Project is complete

but for as long as there are families willing to journey through a Project of their own.

www.gotloveadopt.com

Lessons

2011-09-28T07:11:00.000-04:00

Child's lesson: never leave your belongings (esp. your beloved bike helmet) on the ground, in the drive way, behind the car.

Parent's lesson: always walk behind the car to check for child's belongings before backing out.

Celebration GiVeAwAy!!!

2011-09-26T10:17:00.001-04:00

What's to celebrate?

See the post below...I'm grumpy. I'm weary. I'm tired of waiting.

I really try not to wish away the days. I know that they go by all too quickly.

One look at my almost teen son and I'm reminded.

But at the same time in adoption wait land it is great when the months pass quickly.

And so here we are at the end of September.

That is reason to celebrate!!

Here's my thought:

Let's celebrate each passing month with a give away until our littlest one is home. (I know many of you out there are waiting, too.) On the last day of the month, we'll give something away.

I'll try to be creative in your eligibility requirements,

but this week...I got nothing,

if you are on facebook, go find and like our store page..you're entered.

Minus 1 Project (-1)

(has the car decal picture)

And to not discriminate...if you are not a facebook user, just leave me a comment or email telling me you like our store and you're entered!

I really, really hope we have our new design this week and can give that shirt away.

The Wait

2011-09-25T14:14:00.000-04:00

"God can use the waiting time to mold us into the parents He needs us to be for the children He is sending our way."

~D. Gray

I'm tired of waiting.

In racing, they refer to it as hitting the wall.

I've hit the wall in this adoption wait before and bounced back.

I'm sure I'll do it again, but today I'm just tired of waiting.

Baby, oh, babies...

2011-09-21T20:32:00.000-04:00

There are some families out there whose littlest one has been left out...

but not any longer!

By request/suggestions "got love? adopt." onesies are HERE.

And to add to the cuteness...the colors are the same as the adult shirts.

I cannot wait to see some mother/daughter and father/son pictures!!

Available in 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 2T (24 months).

Don't forget our baby bibs, too.

This is one of the sweetest pictures I've been sent. Drawn by a waiting sister (cleft lip and all)...

Miscellaneous Monday

2011-09-19T10:16:00.007-04:00

Monday, Monday....

My random thoughts and happenings over the past week.

1. Our school is up and running--Ethan (7th), Benjamin (5th), Lindsey (PreK), Lucille (PreK)

I had to use their proper names since our school is extremely formal. Note how I didn't post a picture of them in their jammies on the couch doing school because that wouldn't be acceptable here at our academy. :)

2. Having your child come upstairs from the play room to tell you that her socks are wet is never a good thing. After 2 days with no running water and a large plumbing bill, we have this:

Thankfully we did get some reimbursement from our home owners insurance.

3. I'm placing the order for the long and short sleeve brown/pink shirts today. I'll be ordering extra to stock our store (closet) shelves. If you have already ordered-thank you-your shirt should be on its way to you next Monday.

4. Speaking of the store shelves, have you seen these?

I may or may not have been spotted at church yesterday wearing this one. Really--I didn't wear it but I was tempted. It is so pretty--see the small footprint charm?

5. I am determined that this is the week we'll be adding our Minus 1 shirts--We'll post the pictures here. Two designs-one great message! :) Be sure to find our store on Facebook. Look up Minus 1 Project (-1) (should see the car decal picture). We'll be choosing a winner from those who like us. :)

6. We have a new furry friend. Smokey, and how he came to be in our house, will be getting his own post one day soon.

7. Lindsey is famous for hijacking our camera. Here are some shots of Lucy taken by her at the boys' last track meet.

8. My $6.95 glasses are scheduled to arrive today!

9. I have a Scentsy fundraiser going right now to raise money for Henan Kids International--a foster home in China. If you have thought of trying Scentsy, now would be a great time!

10. I'll leave you with two assignments this week. It is school hours after all.

--If you are on Facebook, go like our store.

--Visit our store, www.gotloveadopt.com. Pick out one thing to purchase now or later to give as a gift...only 97 days until Christmas (just had to throw that in there).

--and one more thing: have a great week!

mruretlebistv unscrambled =

2011-09-16T12:34:00.001-04:00

TERVIS TUMBLER

New to our store shelves!

"got love? adopt." 16oz. Tervis tumblers

-guaranteed for life

-reduces condensation and rings

-keeps hot beverages hot and cold beverages cold

-microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe

~to learn more visit the Tervis tumbler site HERE.

$18.95

The tumblers are ready to order today from our Yahoo store:

www.gotloveadopt.com.

These are in print at the Tervis tumbler factory right now...unfortunately they won't be ready to mail out to you for about 4-5 weeks. (Custom made tumblers take a while.)

There is a limited number of these. We are hoping that they will be HUGE sellers. If we sell enough in the next month we will be able to put in another order that would be delivered just in time for the holiday season. Don't you think this would be a perfect stocking stuffer?

Start your shopping now--we have no guarantee that we will order again.

Oh, and by the way, Julie M.--you're the winner! I thought I would just sneak that in here!

(A huge thank you to all who played and guessed. There were 11 correct guessers. We had a whole lot of fun reading them--you all were very creative and inventive! And aren't you glad that it ISN'T a thermal vest, slumber trivet, rivet stumbler or a lumber trivet????)

When you are shopping our STORE, if you purchase another item with your Tervis tumbler, we won't hold it until the tumblers come in...we will happily mail out all other items within a week of ordering, just say'n!

Charades...

2011-09-15T13:07:00.002-04:00

for the last two letters:

13 letters

2 words

**All guesses must be emailed, takva73@gmail.com or messaged (Facebook) by 10:00AM tomorrow.

The correct answer (picture) and winner will be posted Friday (9-16) @ noon.

See last Sunday's post for complete rules.

Get in the game!

Uninvited

2011-09-14T15:09:00.000-04:00

The other evening, while Tim and Ben were gone, I set out in the back yard to tame thiS:

not the Boy, just his hair.

When we finished, I called the girls inside to get cleaned up for bed. It wasn't until later that I glanced out the kitchen door to find this:

Apparently, I missed my invitation to the pizza, applesauce, soy milk party that went on at the sIde of the house!

**The capital mixed-in letters are not my new glasses, but clues to a guessing game. If you missed Sunday's post, go read it and get in the game!! A wonderful mystery prize awaits.

What could be...

2011-09-13T16:01:00.001-04:00

finer than,

lunch with a panda, monkEy, dog, snake, turtLe and your besT friend?

**give away game in progress, scroll down 2 post to see rules and regulations.

The ultimate toy box!

2011-09-12T16:02:00.001-04:00

I'm usually not one to post everyday but due to the game rules (see post below), I am foRced to do a post each day this week.

I decided to share with you what my family coUld have won at breakfast this morning.

According to the mini-wheats box we "could have instantly won one of the hottest toys from the ultimate toy box":

1. 55" flat screen tv

2. mp3 player

3. kinect for the xbox 360

4. mountain bike

5. disney xbox game bundle

6. e-tablets

I'm not sure what was more disheartening:

1. we didn't win any prizEs

2. they consider a flat screen tv and mp3 player toys

3. I don't even know what an e-tablet is!

--Remember to read the post below! You don't want to miss your chance to possibly win our newest fundraising item....it rocks!! :)

New item = New game

2011-09-11T12:49:00.000-04:00

We have a new item to add to our fundraising.

Friday I received the artwork.

I immediately approved the image because it is gReat!!

So great, that I am hesitant to give one away because I think they are going to be a big hit and there are a limited number.

But, I really like doing the gaMes and I think it is fun to give away a prize to those who endure my silly antics.

So.....here goes the game instructions:

1. Each day, starting today (see above), there will be several letters in each post that pop out from the others.

2. By Thursday's post all the letters will have been given. Your job is to unscramble them to spell the name of our newest item.

3. You may guess as many times as you would like to but guesses need to be sent via email, takva73@gmail.com or messaged through Facebook NOT left in the comment section for all to see!

4. On Friday, around noon, we'll post the winning name and the picture of our newest item. (Guesses need to be in to me by 10:00 AM Friday so we can put all the correct guessers in a pot and draw the winner.)

I hope you all have a great week. I'll try to concentrate on our school and not obsess with checking email for your responses.

I can't wait to see what you come up with.

Happy Unscrambling!

**Remember to find our Minus 1 Project (-1) page on Facebook. We will be giving away one of our new t-shirts--with the new (-1) design soon--be sure to "like" our project!

New glasses

2011-09-08T10:33:00.000-04:00

It all began the weekend I spent with my sister. She was sporting some very fashionable looking glasses. My glasses, however, are from the 90's, not so fashionable and broken. I haven't even searched for new ones because I only wear them at night and early morning--the rest of the day I wear my contacts.

Even if we weren't in the throws of don't-even-think-of-buying-nonessentials, I don't think I could justify spending $75 plus for a new pair since I wear them so little.

But WAIT...$6.95, maybe!

Yes...her cute, thick, rectangular glasses were only $6.95, lenses included.

Can you guess what we did next?

We uploaded my picture in Zennioptical.com, narrowed the search to only the $6.95 pairs and started trying them on.

I placed my order. (I had just recently been to the eye doctor to renew my contacts and had my glasses prescription and pd #--both needed.)

Confession: I splurged on two pairs. One black, one red for a grand total of $18.34.

Now, if my next post looks like this:

fkdlaierUISNDRI7873078o7866%&&^*(&fjlstuldl;lksdjeioaNLZNLJIO EIROAEE9838293%##%AWE%$

you'll know it wasn't such a great deal after all!

I'll let you know.

Larger project, same small production

2011-09-06T12:24:00.000-04:00

If you haven't heard by now, Minus 1 Project just got bigger!! So big that we needed a domain name to contain it...actually two. You can now shop the Minus 1 Project store at

www.gotloveadopt.com

and

www.minus1project.com

All this occurred for several reasons.

The main one being that you all like our "got love? adopt." gear. Thank you! The support and encouragement we have received with each new added item has been phenomenal! More than we ever expected. We found that the blog space (sidebar) was getting a bit crowded and hard to follow--what a great problem to have, huh? :)

We have several new items (not sure how much to share...might jeaprodize future guessing games) and designs in the works. We are hoping to continue to add products from other more-crafty-than-I fundraising families, like the key rings, key fobs and necklaces.

And maybe the REAL reason: We want to raise the money needed for an international adoption. We want other families to be encouraged and inspired to start their own Minus 1 Project. To decide up front, we will do everything it takes to bring our child home, to let there be minus 1 orphan in the world, to show a child they are worth the sacrifice and work it takes to pay their ransom...you get the idea.

So you will start to see some changes here at the Minus 1 Project blog. Eventually over the next few weeks we will remove all of our paypal buttons from the blog. You'll just be left with our family adventures and an occasional emotional/inspirational post written straight from my heart. :) And, of course, I'll share when we are adding new stuff or having a sale or giveaway.

The Yahoo store is certainly a larger project, but we are keeping the same small, personal feel.

~Our workers and production line will remain the same.

Here are two of our devoted workers, in pajamas sill, working on our thank you notes that are included in every order. Starting in about a week all orders placed from the store site will include our personally, no-two-are-alike designed "thank you"s and a small gift.

~Our store room will remain as crowded and messy as ever!

(wish those license plates were legal in Va.--isn't that over the top fun?!)

~Shipping will continue to give the store manager a much needed solo outing to the post office and occasionally a Diet Coke fountain soda.

So with all these changes going on...I hope that my followers and friends will remain the same!

(side note: if you are a Facebooker...go and "like" our Minus 1 Project (-1) page. You'll be ahead of the others for the next give away!!)

Key chain/ fob, jewelry, and a domain name, oh my!

2011-09-04T19:18:00.000-04:00

Key Chain

Key Fobs

Jewelry

Domain Name

www.gotloveadopt.com

Minus 1 Project store is open.

(Still under construction..but couldn't wait to share!)

We will be adding two new t-shirt designs soon.

Oh, yea!

The correct color combo guess...

2011-09-02T15:00:00.002-04:00

BROWN and PINK

The newest addition to our Minus 1 Project fundraising.

Chesnut colored Guildan soft-style 100% ring spun cotton (preshrunk) t-shirt.

One of the softest shirts around!!

I spotted this pink fade on a different shirt and loved it. It is very soft, feminine and eye catching. We had it designed on the softest, pretty brown shirt we could find--thank you Advertising Authorities! Can you tell I am just a bit excited about it??

Available to order today. We will place the order in the next few weeks and all shirts will be ready to mail out by the end of the month--but I think sooner.

Short sleeve, soft-style chestnut and pink "got love? adopt." t-shirt---$20

Long sleeve, soft-style chestnut and pink "got love? adopt." t-shirt--$25

Price includes shipping.

THIS WEEKEND ONLY (until midnight Sunday) ORDERS OVER $35 WILL INCLUDE A FREE BLACK "GOT LOVE? ADOPT. 147 MILLION ORPHANS" TOTE!!!

I enjoyed reading all the guesses and filed away some great color combo ideas! (loved the camo idea, Heather!) I'm so glad to have blogging friends who like to play guessing games--it is really fun for me.

THE WINNERS:

Barb E.-had the first correct guess and took home a free "got love?" t-shirt.

Faith E.-took the gamble and changed her answer after reviewing a spread sheet with color combos--truthfully, I saw it!-her name was picked (out of the two) to win the new design.

Return here Sunday for a sneak peek at some other new fundraising items, complete new design and a new way to shop!

And the game goes on...

2011-08-31T19:45:00.001-04:00

So Nancy and Abby very kindly brought to my attention the endless possibilities (or zillions and bazillions) for this guessing match.

To everyone's surprise there has been ONE correct guess.

Is it yours?

The real game begins:

(a bit dramatic I know!)

You have one chance to change your guess (or give your first guess).

1.If you change and guess a new color combo that is correct your name gets entered to win.

2.If you change and you were the original correct guess--you win a "got love?" t-shirt of your choice, just not the new design.

3. If you were correct and you keep that choice, you win the "got love?"t-shirt of your choice AND get entered to win the new design.

If you are new here...scroll down a few posts to get the goal of the game. In a nutshell, you are guessing the t-shirt color and print color on our newest shirts. To be revealed on Friday with the winner! And be sure to note our sale items, too.

Two days left to order the "got love? adopt." t-shirts with all the color options. Friday the colors go down to a chosen few.

New sale item

2011-08-31T09:14:00.006-04:00

Remember this shirt?

(This is the picture I complained about having my head cut off in...) We had to order a certain number of these when we placed our order. We still have some left--not many but what we have is on sale. $8 only!!!

4 Large and 3 Extra Large

**keep in mind they run rather fitted and, I think, need a tank top underneath.

(A great youth, teen shirt)

Use the donate button ($8 each) and leave me your size choice in the comment section. I'll update the number available as they, hopefully, sell! :)

I'll keep the sale items coming...you keep the guesses coming (see post below)!

Next...

2011-08-29T19:25:00.001-04:00

I think we are finally ready to get a move on to our new fundraising--hopefully this phase will usher in our newest addition and continue to help support other adoptive/fundraising families.

You all know me--a game and prize are in order. So here it is:

This week leave a guess as to the new color combination of our

"got love? adopt." tees.

(First color: shirt Second color: printing)

Example: black/white...hint, we already did this one! :)

The newest in our line of t-shirts will be revealed and ready to order on Friday--along with one lucky winner.

If you leave the correct color combination of the new design (one guess only) your name will be entered to win. The prize is the new design, short sleeve, your size choice.

This new shirt will be available in long and short sleeve.

It is one of the softest cotton blends around--soft style t-shirt.

REMINDER: This is the final week to order a "got love? adopt." t-shirt from the many color choices. After Friday, the selection goes down the three different colors. Don't delay...

The below sale will continue this week. Take a look.

Reduced to $8!

2011-08-27T08:01:00.008-04:00

We can't go much lower or we'll loose money!

Here is what we have left:

"got love? adopt." black cotton tote

1 black original youth medium t-shirt-SOLD

7 black original adult small t-shirts

9 black original adult XL t-shirts

1 black original long sleeve adult M shirts

See post below for pictures.

Each item is $8 (use donate button on sidebar)

"got gifts?"

Phase One...clearing out.

2011-08-25T11:24:00.006-04:00

Looking back over the past year and a half, I noticed that our fundraising has gone in phases.

Phase One: The Black Phase

Phase Two: The Colored Phase

Phase Three: Yet to be named

It is coming in about 2 weeks...it is big, employing the talents of other fundraising more-crafty-than-I families.

We seriously need to clear out of phase one and two before we start stocking for phase three.

From today until it is all gone: All items left from phase one will be sold for a $10 donation.

You donate $10 and pick your item:

-insulated travel mug (ALL SOLD OUT--THANK YOU!)

-black cotton tote (makes a great library or church bag)

-short sleeve t-shirt (only adult S, XL and one youth M)

-long sleeve shirt (only adult M)

Items are limited. I'll update this post as to what is still available and feel free to email me, takva73@gmail.com, if you would like to check before donating. I'll email you when your donation comes in to confirm your purchase. (All items mailed out no later than Monday.)

Your donation helps us in two ways: adds money to our adoption fund and makes room for another little person in this crowded house we call home!!

Back Home!

2011-08-24T16:26:00.000-04:00

I returned home yesterday from 4 restful days at my parent's house with my sister. We all had such a good time. The weather was wonderful! My parents always have such fun food and stuff for the kids to do. It was a bit hard getting moving this morning but I hope we will squeeze in a few more visits before the weather turns too cold to play on the lake.

Here's a few pictures from our time:

We had such a great time..now back home to start preparing for school. I'm still gathering a few things and we'll be ready to start. I'm also working on our new fundraising gear--we are thinking up some fun contests and give aways, too. So keep following us into the fall!!

Friday Randomness

2011-08-19T11:12:00.001-04:00

Random thoughts to leave you with for the next 4 days

1. Thank you all for the allowance input. You all had some great ideas. We have told the boys we will have some type of system in place by the time we start school. We rarely start before Labor Day..so we still have some time to work on it. I appreciate you taking the time to fill me in on your family's money plan for kids. It is worth going back a post to read the comments--especially Jody's! :)

2. It's trash bags...it's shells & cheese...it's tooth care...it's tofu...it's sneakers....it's books....

NO...

it's your Minus 1 Project order arriving in whatever type of box is free!!

3. We went shopping for some school supplies the other day with the kids. The girls were very excited to be choosing some for the first time. We let them each choose a pencil case: Lucy chose a pink sparkly one with a silver star and Lindsey chose a Transformer one. Could my girls be any different? But somehow they remain the best of friends.

4. I received a Facebook message from a blogging friend the other day who lives in Florida. She and her family were out shopping and some of her kids had on their "got love? adopt." t-shirts. Someone stopped them and said, "I know those shirts..they're from the Minus 1 Project." In Florida!!! Isn't that exciting?

5. Speaking of Facebook, I saw this status from another friend. "I feel badly for people with stocks. All my investments were in orphan futures and they are performing stunningly well. My portfolio looks awesome!" Made me smile.

6. BEVERLY HILLS HERMIT CRABS

7. As summer comes to an end, I still do not like bikinis. I posted early in the summer, after seeing blog and Facebook pictures about being surprised at the number of girls allowed to wear them. I don't understand a parents' acceptance of seeing their daughter out in public in what amounts to a panty and bra. Here is an excerpt from a friend's blog. "The industry does us no favors if we happen to be parents of young ladies. It is a fine line we walk with being culturally cool while still being honoring to our Creator and mindful of our male friends. We put much pressure (and rightfully so) on young men to be gentlemanly and respectful but in the same turn we dress our daughters in strapless, tight fitting and way to short apparel and then beseech the boys not to stare. We can't have it both ways."

Lindsey makes me laugh because when she hops off her bike, she shoves it over. (The bike stands very steady b/c of the training wheels.) She heaves it to the ground so it will park like the boys' bikes. So much for this bike becoming a hand-me-down to child #5! :)

9. I'm headed to my parent's house, with kids in tow, for a long weekend with my sister and her kids. I'm very excited about getting to spend a few days with her.

10. Just a reminder that we are nearing the end of an era. Our t-shirt color choices are slimming down. This is the last month to get to order from the many colors available.

Enjoy your weekend...feel free to leave me some random comments! :)