Shirts are in (almost)

Okay, friends. This adoption ride is getting crazy, so we’re inviting you to join us for the fun at every unexpected twist. We received a huge packet in the mail last Friday that contained the official referral for our three year old son, Vismay. The packet contained every detail of his precious life—photos, medical information, assessments, funny comments, and two (two) DVD’s! Vismay’s story is nothing short of miraculous, and I hope one day he’ll be willing to share it with you. Just trust, though, that God has given him a will to conquer odds that no child should have to endure without a family.

In all our excitement to receive V’s file, we neglected to read the cover letter notifying us that a rather large sum of money was due… now. Gulp. Big gulp. Nine gulps to be exact. Nothing about the amount was unexpected, but due to several pieces of the process coming together quickly, the fee schedule was expedited as well.

While a larger amount lingers, we’re focused on an immediate need of $3,500 to get our dossier to India for review. Indian adoptions have many steps in-country, and we desperately want to get in line as quickly as possible. So what does every adoptive family do in this situation? Sell t-shirts, of course!

With the deadline of funds due yesterday, we’re going out on a limb to ask you to pre-order your shirt(s). Only those who know us and trust us will be crazy enough to do this, but we can assure you that the shirt is young, gender neutral, and not entirely likely to end up in your carwashing towel collection. And since there is nothing cuter than mini-me versions of adoption shirts, we’re offering children’s sizes, too!

Now for the fine print. The shirts are $20 each or you can purchase a five shirt family pack for $75. We’ve had an incredibly generous donor cover the cost of the shirts and printing, so local friends, allow us to deliver the shirts to you to avoid shipping costs. For our out-of-town pals, we’ll gladly mail yours. We will accept payments in person or by paypal (see sidebar or below).

We’ve walked the road of adoption once before, and each of you walked alongside us. You’ve experienced in some way or another the absolute joy of Dosen Stum. Our experience with him changed our hearts in a way we never anticipated and paved our way to meet Vismay. Thank you for believing in us. Your friendship and support are gifts to be treasured.

Much love and much thanks,
Jake, Merica, Luke and Dosen