2010 Year in Review

2010 was our most successful year to date! We were able to support 6 different orphanages, a prison and two needy individuals. With your support we raised well over $100,000!

January 2010 - Two Hearts supplies donations to a women's prison in Almaty, Kazakhstan!

After receiving a request from the Ministry of Justice in Almaty, we collected donations for this women's prison that also has a baby home. They were in desperate need of many items and we were able to provide: diapers, shelving, 2 strollers, 14 radiators, 2 irons, a microwave, 25 pots and pans, sterilizers, baby wraps, toys, sheets and blankets, 100 plates/spoons and cups, potty chairs, 3 sleds and outdoor clothing for the orphans!

May 2010 - Playground at the Children's Home in Almaty City complete!

The 2 Hearts 2 Kaz 2010 mission team traveled to Almaty City for 10 days to construct a playground at the largest orphanage in Kazakhstan. The Children's Complex houses 350 orphans, age 5-16. We also took 23 bags of donations with over 3500 items, including 7 wheelchairs, that were given to 4 orphanages in the Almaty region.

June 2010 - On our recent trip to Kazakhstan we were approached by the orphanage doctor at the Karakastek baby home asking for help in purchasing a water filtration system. Our board decided that this is a fantastic way to improve the lives of the orphans at Karakastek. Our fundraising goal was $3000. With this money we will purchase 6 water systems and 24 replacement filters.

September 2010 - Our first annual Walk for Kaz was a great success! Our goal for the walk was to raise money to put towards the $10,000 we need for the 100 Beds for Sleepyheads Campaign. With the help of the 104 registrants and sponsors, Walk for Kaz raised $10,123.28! We are overwhelmed, shocked, amazed and genuinely thankful that we will be able to purchase 100 new beds and 100 new mattresses for the children at the Ulan Orphanage in Taraz, Kazakhstan.

October 2010 - We were contacted by a representative from an orphanage in the region of Shelek, Kazakhstan, about 100 miles north of Almaty. She informed us of the overwhelming need facing the 47 mostly special needs children at this orphanage. Hardly any adoptions are ever done from this orphanage and because it is so small, it is often overlooked by the government. It truly has no support. In addition to lacking basic necessities for the children, they also have no toys or games. We were able to purchase a new refrigerator, washing machine, snow suits, diapers, clothes, and toys/games. We look forward to continuing our support of this orphanage in the future.

November 2010 - In July we were introduced to Lada Khon who was in need of a very urgent heart surgery. Lada's Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) was closed by a procedure known as cardiac cauterization*. When she went in for surgery the doctors thought the hole was only 1.5 cm but upon seeing the defect they realized it was 2.5. The doctors told Lada's parents that without this surgery she probably would have not made it much longer. She should live a normal full life now.

Thank you to our supporters who continue to bless our ministry and the orphans in Kazakhstan. Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

The Perfect Gift

2010 Two Hearts for Hope ornament: This ornament is the second in our continuing Christmas series and features a sketch of the playground we built this year at the Children's Home in Almaty City. It is 2 1/2'' in diameter, custom pewter, hand sculpted with satin pewter finish, and has a red ribbon! Give as a gift and we will enclose a note card stating a donation has been made in honor of the recipient. Quantity limited to 100 ornaments. Get yours before they are gone! $20

2011 Cherished Children calendar: Celebrate the gift of adoption all year long with our beautiful calendar featuring children adopted from Kazakhstan. These adorable children will make any home a little brighter in 2011. $20

Cooking for Kaz: Meals for Hope: Over 200 family favorite recipes as well as Kazakh recipes are included in this cookbook. By celebrating the beautiful children of Kazakhstan we hope to make a difference in the lives of those children still waiting for their forever family. $17

100% of the money raised will go towards our continued efforts to bring hope to the orphans in Kazakhstan.

Please visit our Christmas shop today! http://www.twoheartsforhope.org/shop.html

Cookbooks are in!

The cookbooks are in and they look great! There are over 200 family favorite recipes as well as Kazakh recipes included in this cookbook. They are $17 (shipping included) and will make a great gift for anyone on your holiday shopping list! Order soon to guarantee Christmas delivery.

All proceeds from the cookbooks go towards our continued efforts to bring HOPE to the orphans in Kazakhstan. Now that Kazakhstan is closed to international adoption we are needed more than ever.

http://www.twoheartsforhope.org/shop.html

Lada update

Lada's Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) was closed by a procedure known as cardiac catheterization*. When she went in for surgery the doctors thought the hole was only 1.5 cm but upon seeing the defect they realized it was 2.5. The doctors told Lada's parents that without this surgery she probably would have not made it much longer. She should live a normal full life now.

*Cardiac Catheterization ~ A flexible tube (a catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel in the leg that leads to the heart. A cardiologist guides the tube into the heart to make measurements of blood flow, pressure, and oxygen levels in the heart chambers. A special implant, shaped into two disks formed of flexible wire mesh, can be positioned into the hole in the septum. The device is designed to flatten against the septum on both sides to close and permanently seal the VSD.

Thank you so much to all who supported Lada through donations and prayers! You truly saved a life.

Lada and her dad on the train to Almaty

The hospital in Moscow

Pre-op check up

Cards of support, prayers and well wishes

Post-op

Ready to go home

Ornament

Our 2010 Christmas ornaments are in!

This ornament is the second in our continuing Christmas series and features a sketch of the playground we built this year at the Children's Home in Almaty City. It is 2 1/2'' in diameter, custom pewter, hand sculpted with satin pewter finish, and has a red ribbon! Cost is $20 (includes shipping) and will make the perfect holiday gift for anyone in your life! Give as a gift and we will enclose a note card stating a donation has been made in honor of the recipient. All proceeds will go towards our continued efforts in Kazakhstan.

Quantity limited to 100 ornaments. Get yours before they are gone!

You can purchase the ornaments from our online shop by clicking here!

2011 Cherished Children calendar

Our 2011 calendar is in the final stages of being printed and it is beautiful! Once again Ann Hochstetler did a fantastic job creating it and we thank her very much!

To pre-order your calendar and to guarantee holiday delivery please visit our shop today and place your order!



http://www.twoheartsforhope.org/shop.html

Shelek - 13 regions reached!

We were contacted by a representative from an orphanage in the region of Shelek, Kazakhstan, about 100 miles north of Almaty. She informed us of the overwhelming need facing the 47 mostly special needs children at this orphanage. Hardly any adoptions are ever done from this orphanage and because it is so small, it is often overlooked by the government. It truly has no support. In addition to lacking basic necessities for the children, they also have no toys or games. We were able to purchase a new refrigerator, washing machine, snow suits, clothes, diapers and toys/games. We look forward to continuing our support of this orphanage in the future.





Also this month we were able to purchase snow suits and clothes for the orphanage in Taldy Korgan! It is very exciting to see how the Lord is using us to touch these lives!

Word from Moscow

Lada is in Moscow now and made the flight extremely well. She needed to undergo more tests so the surgery was pushed back. Here is an email we received from our Kaz contact:

"In Kaz they were told that a cut is necessary from the back now. But Moscow doctors say it may be a new technology surgery without opening a chest. The commission is supposed to make a conclusion about the type of treatment and surgery. They are staying in a rented apt as every day they come to hospital for examination. Lada can be put in hospital only for serious manipulations. We all pray for her and when the conclusion is ready, I'll inform you."

Thank you for continuing to pray for Lada.

Tuesday

We received word this morning that Lada and her family are in Almaty. They will leave for Moscow tomorrow and she will have surgery on Tuesday.

Please remember to keep this little girl in your prayers.

Thank you to all who supported her!

Lada update

Lada's surgery has been scheduled for October 26th in Moscow!

A GREAT Success!

Our first annual Walk for Kaz was a great success!

Our goal for the walk was to raise money to put towards the $10,000 we need for the 100 Beds for Sleepyheads Campaign. With the help of the 104 registrants and sponsors, Walk for Kaz raised $10,123.28! We are overwhelmed, shocked, amazed and genuinely thankful that we will be able to purchase 100 new beds and 100 new mattresses for the children at the Ulan Orphanage in Taraz, Kazakhstan!

The weather was great, the families were wonderful and everyone had a blast! Please "like" Walk for Kaz on facebook to see some pictures!

Congratulations and thank you to the following winners:

~ Team Kazmanian Devils for raising the most money ($3831.25), having the most team spirit and the most members!

~ Joanne Morley of NY for raising the most money for an individual, $1795!

~ Nick Kitzman of KY for raising the most money for a child, $876.25!

~ Lory Printy of OH for the fastest finish with a stroller!

~ David Prud'homme, Angela Reinoehl and Michele Torre for placing 1st, 2nd and 3rd!

A sincere and heartfelt thank you to Alaina Falk and family, Ann Hochstetler and family, Gretchen Bilbro and family and our many sponsors and volunteers for putting on this great event!

Blessings,

Kim and Stacy

Walk for Kaz

In 11 days 92 walkers will take to Eagle Creek Park in Indianapolis to raise awareness and money for the orphans in Kazakhstan. Please consider being part of the fun!

The schedule of events are as follows:

Friday, September 24th:

~6:30-8:30 pm: "Meet and Mingle" pizza party at the Clarion Hotel. This is a separate fee of $8 per adult, $4 per child. Pizza party is optional but is great way to meet the other families walking for Kaz.

Saturday, September 25th:

~8:30 am: Registration begins. A registration table will be set up for check in and to pick up bags.

~9:30 am: Walk begins

~11:30 am: Family fun! Including lunch, bounce house, face painting! There is also a playground on site! Prizes will be handed out for the largest team, most team spirit, best decorated stroller or wagon, and most money raised by a team, individual or child.

Families and individuals can register up until 9:30 am on 9/25. Cost for the event is $20 per person or $50 per family (up to 6 members). Children under 2 are free. For each additional family member there will be a charge of $5. Lunch will be provided only to those that register.

Check out Walk for Kaz and register today!

More photos

New toothpaste and toothbrushes for the older children

Second floor installations complete

New pipes and faucets installed

2011 Cherished Children

WE HAVE REACHED 75 CHILDREN. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Please check back in December to purchase your copy of this great calendar.

If you have any questions please let us know. photos@twoheartsforhope.org

All the proceeds from our 2011 calendar will go to our 100 Beds for Sleepyheads campaign.

Update on Lada

Lada will have surgery in Moscow at the A.N. Bakulev Research Center for Cardiovascular Surgery. Her parents chose to continue using her Russian doctor who has performed Lada's two previous surgeries. The appointment will be made in the next two weeks at which point we will wire the donation money directly to an account set up in Lada's name at the hospital. Your donations have also allowed us to bless Lada and her family with plane tickets and a room at the hospital hotel for the duration of her stay in Moscow.

We are still continuing to pray her surgery will be done late fall/early winter!

Thank you again for supporting Lada!

Water filtration pictures

Here are some pictures of the systems that have already been installed. Pipes were replaced in two locations and two systems were installed last night, one in the cafeteria and one in the older children's area. Our team is working on replacing more pipes this weekend and will put more systems in on Tuesday.

We thought you might like to see some of the faces of the beautiful children at the Karakastek baby home who will now have clean water:

Water filtration update

This week our team in Kazakhstan began working on the water filtration systems for the Karakastek orphanage. When they started to drill the pipes were crumbling into dust and 6 faucets needed to be replaced. We decided that we needed to replace all of the pipes leading into the places that the water filters were being installed. The director has asked for government assistance to replace plumbing but have yet to receive it.

We are installing 8 systems:

- 3 on the baby floor, floor 3

- 4 on floor 2 where the older children live (bath, brush their teeth and drink)

- 1 larger unit in the cafeteria where they prepare all the food.

We were also asked to install 8 soap dispensers in the bathroom, one by each sink on the older children's floor. Right now the children are using laundry soap to wash their hands so of course we said yes to helping provide this basic necessity. In addition to the soap, each child received a new toothbrush and toothpaste.

Pictures of the progress coming soon!

2011 Cherished Children

We are now accepting photos for our 2011 calendar!

If you would like your child to be featured please send us ONE photo of your child along with the region he/she was adopted from by October 1st!

Photos need to be 90KB or higher.

In order to create the best possible calendar we are limited to 75 pictures. When we reach this limit we will stop accepting photos so ACT FAST!

Please send your child's photo to photos@twoheartsforhope.org

All the proceeds from our 2011 calendar will go to our 100 Beds for Sleepyheads campaign.

Goal reached!

A very heartfelt thank you to all who donated towards Lada's surgery! We have reached our goal and Lada will have surgery by the end of the year. Check back for updates!

Latte for Lada

Would you consider giving your morning coffee to save a life? Please consider donating $5 tomorrow, Monday August 23rd to help us reach our goal of providing Lada with a life saving heart surgery.

Our goal is to collect the funds by September 15th so she can have late fall/early winter surgery.

To read about her story, please click here!

We are only $670 away from our goal, help us reach it TODAY!

Deadline

Sunday is the last day to send in those family recipes for our cookbook!

If you are interested in being included please send ONE or TWO of your favorite family recipes with the following information by August 15th!

- Name
- State you live in
- Name of children
- Region your Kazakh cutie was adopted from
- The date your adoption was finalized


Please send recipe(s) to recipes@twoheartsforhope.org.

Our 2nd edition will feature more Kazakh recipes along with great family recipes!

Thank you for your support!

Mission Trip 2011

Who
Those who are interested and willing to make a difference in the lives of orphans by carrying out God’s will. All members of the team should have a flexible attitude and be ready for some good old fashion hard work while also understanding that this will be a very emotional trip. We only have 8 spots for this trip and will not hold any. Members will be taken on a “first come, first serve” basis.

What
A mission trip to Taraz, Kazakhstan to build and replace 100 beds and mattresses.

When
Friday, September 23, 2011 – Sunday, October 2, 2011

Where
Ulan Children’s Home in Taraz, Kazakhstan. The orphanage is home to 100 kids, ages 4-16

Why
We were asked to complete this project because most of the bed frames are broken and the mattresses are falling apart. They are very old and have not been replaced in many years. The orphanage has been trying to replace them since 2006.

How
In order to get to Kazakhstan, we need to supply the beds. Please consider making a donation towards our "100 beds for sleepyheads" campaign.

Cost
The cost of the trip will be $3500 per person. The cost includes airfare from your nearest international* airport, train ticket from Almaty to Taraz, lodging, driver/translator, insurance, food within Kazakhstan, and travel visas. All donations made towards your trip are tax-deductible within the guidelines given by the IRS.

Schedule of fees
A $1000 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your spot and is due by February 1, 2011.

Your balance will be due by June 1, 2011.
A person is not considered a part of the trip until the deposit has been made.

*You are responsible for purchasing a ticket on any domestic flight you would need to reach the International airport.
To request an information packet or if you have any questions, please email Kim at kim@twoheartsforhope.org.

URGENT REQUEST!!

We have been asked to find sponsors for a child in Kazakhstan that is is need of Urgent Heart Surgery. Of course this is something that is very close to our hearts. As most of you know, and for those that do not, Kim's daughter had a very serious heart defect that she was born with and without surgery she could have died. So when we received this request we knew it was something we had to help with.

Meet Lada Khon:



She was born in Taraz, Kazakhstan on June 1,2001 with a very serious heart defect. Since the beginning of her life she has suffered many problems. Her hair didn't grow, she had difficulties breathing, frequent nose bleeds, and the pressure in her lungs was twice as much as it should have been. Her parents found sponsors and had one surgery in 2006, but during that surgery the doctors saw that there were more defects and if they tried to fix them then she wouldn't have survived, So they only did half of it. They said later, they did what usually is done in 3 operations. Now she urgently needs another one. In Kazakhstan this type of surgery is not possible, so she has to travel along with one parent to the Moscow Research Center for Cardiovascular Surgery. They can not schedule this surgery until they have the money and this surgery cost $8000.00 not including airfare to Moscow and the parents hotel stay while they are there. Her parents love her and pray for her daily but can not afford this surgery. Can you imagine being helpless and watching your child suffer and not being able to help? We can help and with your support we can get Lada the operation she needs.

We know that with everyday that passes Lada could die. We have a generous donor that said they would match up to $4000.00, so technically we are already half way there. We are in desperate need of donors today to help us raise the other half of the cost of her surgery. You can donate via the paypal button on the right sidebar or by visiting our website. 100% of what you donate is tax deductible. You can also mail a check to Two Hearts for Hope, PO Box 1928, Lebanon, MO 65536. Make sure to put Lada Khon in the memo.

We have all supporting documents (they have not been translated to english yet) that we can show you if requested proving that this little girl needs us NOW. Please email us at info@twoheartsforhope.org if you have any questions about Lada or her surgery.

Thank you for helping us provide a life saving operation for Lada Khon!!

UPDATE:

We did get back the translated medical records and this is her diagnosis:

DIAGNOSIS BEFORE SURGERY in 2006: ventricular septal defect (antigen); Preductalcoarctation of the aorta, tricuspid valve insufficiency (3 level or degree), pulmonary valve insufficiency (2 level).

DISCHARGE NOTES FROM 2006: Septal defect (antigen), Open Ductus arteriosus
insufficiency of Tricuspid valve (level 2).

If you would like to review any of this please let us know.

Please consider helping Lada today!

Walk for Kaz

Don't forget to register for Walk for Kaz today! There is only one month left for early registration!

Walk for Kaz is also looking for generous organizations and families to sponsor some of the needs associated with planning the event. If you are interested in sponsoring any of the following, let us know:

Water

Water bottles

Face painting

T-shirts

Prizes/gift bags

This would be a great way for families not able to attend to show your support for Two Hearts for Hope!

Funds will also be needed to cover expenses such as printing, postage, registration packets, medals for winners, signs and media releases. Our goal is to raise enough sponsorship monies to at least offset all expenses so that 100% of the participant entry fees can benefit Two Hearts for Hope.

Check out the Walk for Kaz website for sponsorship information or contact us at info@walkforkaz.com and help us reach our goal today!

Thanks!

Calling all cooks!

We are busy organizing the 2nd edition of our "Cooking for Kaz" family cookbook and WE NEED YOU!

If you are interested in being included please send ONE or TWO of your favorite family recipes with the following information by August 15th!

- Name
- State you live in
- Name of children
- Region your Kazakh cutie was adopted from
- The date your adoption was finalized


Please send recipe(s) to recipes@twoheartsforhope.org.

Our 2nd edition will feature more Kazakh recipes along with great family recipes!

Thank you for your support!

Necklace fundraiser

Show your love for adoption! Two Hearts for Hope has teamed up with Bashful Bliss to bring you these adorable, one of a kind adoption necklaces. Bashful Bliss is a unique and fun company that enjoys giving back! They design glass tile necklaces with the idea to give a little "happy" to someone and allow them to find bliss in the "little" things in life!

Each necklace is hand-made with a 1' x 1' inch glass tile in Kazakhstan colors attached to a coordinating ribbon cord by a sterling silver bail. Each necklace is 18' inches in length with a 2' lobster clasp. We have three styles for you to chose from: "Chosen", "Forever" and "Miracle." Necklaces are $15 plus $3 for shipping and 100% of the money will go towards our continued efforts in Kazakhstan.

To purchase, visit our website - www.twoheartsforhope.org

Kazapalooza

This past weekend we were in Milwaukee at Kazapalooza. We were chosen to be the charity this year to which all proceeds from the raffle on Saturday went.

On our recent trip to Kazakhstan we were approached by the orphanage doctor asking for help in purchasing a water filtration system. Our board decided that this is a fantastic way to improve the lives of the orphans at Karakastek. Our fundraising goal was $3000. With this money we will purchase 6 water systems and 24 replacement filters.

The Karakastek orphanage is located in the Almaty region and is home to children age birth to 7 years old. The baby home houses anywhere from 75 to 125 at a given time. It is a village orphanage that is only supported by the local government and is very poor and under funded. The children lack proper nutrition, are very small and often sick. Part of the reason for their sickness and malnutrition is poor water conditions. Most children adopted from Karakastek come home with bacteria or parasites that are caused by drinking or ingesting contaminated water. Just looking at statistics of children that are adopted with parasites we are sure that many of the children still waiting for a family are also infected. We can change their diets or supply vitamins but it will only do so much if the water is not also changed.

We are so happy to report that the wonderfully generous families at Kazapalooza raised $5581 for our project!

The systems will be purchased and installed in July. Thank you Kazapalooza for choosing Two Hearts and thanks to all the great families for your support!

Mission Trip video

A brief look into our trip, enjoy:

New fundraisers

T-Shirts:

While we were in Kazakhstan, the children of the Zhanyua Children's Home (formerly CH #3) in Almaty painted shirts for us. These shirts were designed by Kaz parents Matt and Suzanne Ruley and have our logo on the front with a picture of the playground on the back. The playground has been colored and signed by a child. Each shirt will come with an info sheet on the child artist.

The sizes available are as follows:
Youth small - 12
Youth medium - 1
Youth large - 1
Adult small - 4
Adult medium - 45
Adult large - 35
Adult XL - 19
Adult XXL - 9

Shirts are $20 for adult sizes and $15 for youth sizes. The proceeds from these shirts will go towards our continued efforts to help the orphans of Kazakhstan.

A huge thank you to Matt and Suzanne for their idea with these t-shirts!

You can purchase the shirts on our website, www.twoheartsforhope.org

1st Annual Walk for Kaz:

Please join us for our 1st Annual family friendly 5K Run/Walk to be held September 25, 2010 at Eagle Creek Park in Indianapolis, Indiana. All proceeds will go directly to Two Hearts For Hope, a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization.

Walk for Kaz is the vision of four moms to children born in Kazakhstan. Alaina, Ann, Gretchen and Kim have dedicated their lives to helping give back to the children still waiting for their forever families. Each woman left a piece of their heart in Kazakhstan and could never forget the children left behind. These women serve with Two Hearts for Hope, a 501 3C nonprofit that has reached a countless number of children in Kazakhstan through the generosity of many people.

Our goal is to raise awareness for the plight of the orphan in Kazakhstan. There are 143 million orphans in the world and of that an estimated 100,000 live in the country of Kazakhstan. All proceeds collected from this walk will go directly to supporting Two Hearts for Hope on their mission to make sure the orphans have the basic necessities every child deserves.

Please come join us as we bring HOPE to Kazakhstan's orphans, one step at a time

Change and be changed

If we were to sum up our week in a few short words, I think "change and be changed" would be perfect. We left here with the goal of building a playground, never truly understanding that we would be changing lives with small, simple acts of kindness. We were told that our actions were transforming the views of adoption in Kazakhstan. We were told over and over again that people could not understand why we would COME BACK after adopting a child. The idea that we would care so much about orphans in a country so far away was inconceivable to most of the people we came in contact with. For us this is simple, we dedicate our lives to giving back to the country that has blessed us with so much. When we gave the beggar a wheel chair a crowd gathered in the street. They kept looking at us and asking "Why do Americans care about one lonely beggar in Kazakhstan?" This is our goal, to plant seeds of hope where we go. Hope transcends borders and can change lives.

For most of us, this was the first non-adoption related trip we took to Kazakhstan. Traveling to adopt and traveling on a mission trip are two completely different experiences. We were not concentrating on just one baby, but many. It was so hard to walk around the two orphanages we visited and know that most of these kids would not find homes because of paperwork issues. It was hard to watch the older kids and the "Lord of The Flies" mentality take place. When kids are in a large group there is going to be a natural leader and there is going to be a weaker child. We just wanted to swoop in and start explaining right from wrong but that is not our place.

At one of the orphanages it was very difficult to watch the caregivers sitting in the "break room" having chai while 10 little babies screamed and were in desperate need of a clean diaper. It went against everything we feel as parents not to intervene on their behalf but could not. These experiences really make you stop and think about how much needs to be changed. While we wish we could do it all, our goal remains to provide small acts to better the lives of those orphans still waiting for their forever families. This trip truly made us realize that a hug, a smile, and a 5 minute conversation means the world to a child who has to fight for attention every day of their life.

Each time we looked at a child and knew that they most likely have spent the majority of their life in an institution our hearts broke. In reality adoption can't be the answer for all the children, not even half but by giving back and simply being there for a few days, seeds begin to grow. For a child to know that someone cares can be the difference between a life of crime or better choices. We were lucky to be able to meet lots of people working alongside orphans to ensure their lives turn out better than a life of crime or prostitution.

Here are a few thoughts from some on our trip:

From Sean, 12 years old: It made me realize that there are so many real kids out there and kids are kids no matter the language they speak or where they live.

From Susan, adoptive mom: It definitely "opened the eyes of my heart" and made me want to continue to do whatever we can to help make any kind of a difference. Looking at the pictures of all those sweet faces and remembering their personalities, from the older kids in Almaty to the under stimulated babies in Karakastek, brings me to tears when I realize that their reality doesn't include parents who love them and tuck them in at night, or even to discipline them and yell at them to "take a shower." As I felt on our first trip to Kazakhstan, the love I have for the country and it's people only intensified. I am so amazed at how they live with so much less than we have, yet are so resourceful and gracious. I love their commitment to relationships. I just wish the that the economics of it all weren't so brutal so that many children have to grow up in an orphanage instead of with their family. I feel blessed 10 fold that we were able to adopt Leeza and because of her we've come to the country she was born in. I know that this is not the last the country of Kazakhstan will see from the Serra Family.

From Ann, adoptive mom: My heart was opened to the older kids and a huge part of my heart remains in Kaz because of the sweet teens I spent time with. I love that smiles, hugs and love are the same in every language. Spending time in the Children's Home has made me want to do much more for them and help their dreams come true. They deserve to have a family just as much as a baby does and if nothing else we can do something to help them achieve their dreams so they do not become a statistic. Words cannot describe how this trip has changed my life. Tears are always there when I think of the kids, which has been all day everyday since leaving. My love for Kaz has grown and intensified as well and I hope to be able to do much much more for the orphans of Kaz and make a difference in their livers so they know they are loved.

From Alaina, adoptive mom: This trip was fantastically life changing. My passion and commitment to adoption and raising awareness only strengthened. My heart broke hundreds of times as I met and interacted with all of these children. So many beautiful children needing homes and families - the older kids questioning why they haven't been chosen, the babies needing stimulating and love, and all of the children vying for attention. It challenged me to never forget, to advocate, and to keep going back. My love for the country and people of Kazakhstan was deepened. What an amazing team and amazing trip.

It's hard to be back here going about our day to day life after spending a week in Kaz. While we were there it felt like the center of the earth. Most people have no idea where Kazakhstan is but to us it is where a piece of our heart shall remain always.

Ribbon Ceremony

What a day!

We started at the special needs baby home to deliver donations and wheel chairs. We met a man named Peyton who has been in Kaz 14 years working with disadvantaged people. 2 years ago he began his work with the special needs home. This man is seriously Jesus in the flesh. His heart is incredible and he touches everyone he meets, especially the children.

The doctor wanted to give us a proper "reception" for the wheel chairs so during the Victory Day celebration the kids were having they introduced Stacy and I. We then moved the children from their old chair to their new one. It was a perfect start to the day. While we were there we learned that it is the goal of the workers to teach people to be more understanding and open to children with special needs. These kids live at this orphanage until they are 14 and then move to a mental institution. It truly was a wonderful baby home and we could certainly tell they do care.

Next we to a foster home and met with Andre. Andre is a man that works with orphans who are about to age out of the system. The house they were living in burned down about a month ago and now the kids are constructing a new one. It is Andre's goal to teach them life skills before they are on their own.

The ribbon cutting for the ceremony was at 2 pm. Otto from R.E.A.C.H made a speech, the orphanage assistant director spoke, and I spoke. We then cut a red ribbon and took pictures. Two Hearts was presented with a certificate that says:

"Public Fund REACH would like to express our sincere appreciation to "Two Hearts for Hope" for their dedication to the orphans of Kazakhstan. They have given their time and energy and have shared their love and resources with many children. As a result of their commitment, 350 orphans at the Zhanuya Orphanage in Almaty have received a long-awaited playground; many other children were clothed; and literally thousands have received gifts. Their dedication is to be commended. We would like to wish them and their families' good health, prosperity, and success in all of their endeavors."

The best part of the ceremony was when we were cutting the ribbon and the children were chanting "Spa-ci-ba" (thank you) over and over again. The tears were certainly flowing. When the ceremony was over we handed out ice cream to all the children.

To put into words what it felt like to stand back and watch the children playing is difficult. This year has been full of so many different emotions and trials to overcome. There were times when we thought this playground would not happen and to see this dream complete was overwhelming.

After the ceremony Stacy and I went to bring a beggar a wheel chair. We were asked to bring one for this man that Otto at Reach passes each day and has become friendly with. The man has leprosy and can't walk. His mother in law carries him to the street corner each morning and brings him back each night. He told Otto a few times that his dream was to have his own wheel chair. The look on his face when he pulled himself up and sat in the chair was amazing. He looked so proud and kept asking us to take his picture so he could see what he looked like. People on the street came up to us and wanted to know what we were doing. They could not understand why Americans would care about 1 Kazakh beggar and come all the way to Kaz to help him. One step at a time we hope to change the world.

The night ended when we had the Reach team and their families over for a backyard BBQ. We sat around and told stories of the week and just cried for about an hour. Lives were changed this week. Friendships that will last a lifetime were made.

I wish I could find the emotions right now to sit down and truly express all that we are feeling but we are so exhausted it is hard. When we get back home we will sit down and write more.

Tomorrow is our last day in Kazakhstan. Boy did this week fly by!

more

Karakastek

Thursday May 6th -

Today we were out of the house by 7 am to get on the road to Karakastek. It was about an hour and a half ride through the country. The baby house is literally in the middle of nowhere and in pretty bad shape. We brought 12 bags of donations, in them were shoes, cloth diapers, clothes, medical supplies, mattress pads and crib sheets. The director and doctor were very excited and appreciative of the items.

We visited with the babies first and got to hold them for a long time. Then we played with the toddlers. Boy was that hard. We walked into the room and every one of them ran up to us screaming "mama, mama." It was the saddest thing. The little girls loved our necklaces and the little boys wanted to sit on our laps and snuggle. We did some crafts with them and handed out the bananas we purchased. We go back on Saturday and will have a small party and play outside.

In September there were about 85 orphans at this baby home, today there were probably 60. 3 years ago there were about 120-150. It was very encouraging to see the numbers dwindling but still so hard to be there among the poor conditions and lack of care these babies receive. The smell is overwhelming and a little hard to deal with at first. The caretakers don't really change the babies diapers all that often and keep them in cribs for a very long time each day. Both are frustrating to see and hard to ignore.

After the orphanage we went to lunch and sightseeing. Tomorrow we visit the special needs orphange to bring the wheel chairs and have the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Children's Complex. Our team in Kaz was able to get a food company to donate ice cream for all the children and there are rumors of media coverage.

Please pray for our team. There are a few members that have become sick over the last few days and run down. We are needing energy and sleep.

Day 4

Wednesday, May 5th 10:00 pm.

What an emotionally draining day. We spent all day inside with the children playing games. The team broke up into three smaller teams to visit different groups. The first group Stacy and I visited was a room with 7 kids, ages 8-11. We did crafts and then took them outside to play with chalk and bubbles. The other teams played Uno and Twister with the kids.

Today was the first full day we were able to be with the kids for a long period of time and could put all our energy into them. We were really hit with hard emotions. It is very hard to look at them and know they have no mother. They have no father. The last group we were in had a few 15-16 year olds. They told us about this little girl they were friends with and she was adopted by Americans in 2003. They said she "went to America and we never hear from her. How come no Americans come for us?" They brought out a photo album that had pictures of these girls from when they were very young, maybe 8. It was so incredibly sad on many levels.

It is amazing to us that all these children want is to be hugged. To be acknowledged by us with a smile, hand shake or a warm embrace. Even the smallest act of rubbing a back brings a smile to their faces.

The hardest part are stories like Medina's-she was born in Uzbekistan and brought over the border. She can never be adopted because her paperwork isn't right. She is a beautiful, sweet little girl who will never know the love of a family because of paperwork. Sometimes the injustice in this world is too much for us.


Tomorrow we are headed to the Karakastek orphanage. Still no way to upload photos.
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Playground complete

Today we finished the playground two days ahead of schedule! Our team is awesome! We had so much help from children too. Wow-we are just amazed.

This morning we had to finish hanging the monkey bars, bridge sides, store front, and other side parts. We also had three truck loads of gravel delivered that we had to spread under the playground.

Stacy and I went to baby house 3 to deliver donations. It was incredible to walk back into the directors office almost three years to the day when we were there to meet Josh. She was very thankful for all the donations and medical supplies we brought.

We also signed some paperwork to begin the process of being a registered organization in Kazakhstan. This should be completed in two-three months.

The team atmosphere here is great! We are enjoying our time together so much. We have laughed and cried together many times and know our friendships will be life long.

The internet here is still slow but I will try to upload photos tomorrow from the office.
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Playground at the start of day 1

Here we are on day 2 about to start.
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Playground assembly-Almaty City

Monday May 3rd

Today began construction on the playground. We split up our team into three groups. The first two groups were on the playground in the morning while group three went inside the orphanage to do crafts and play with the kids. After a fabulous lunch of chicken, potatoes, bread, and salad provided by the orphanage cafeteria, the groups switched. We also had 4 additional people from Kazakhstan helping us. Throughout the entire day the children were watching us and this afternoon some of the older kids came over and decided to help out. It was an awesome experience to be building alongside the children.

Today we dug holes, set poles, mixed and poured cement, assembled slide, bridge, tunnel, climbers, roofs, rock wall, and tic-tac-toe panel. We are very excited at the progress we made on day one and think that the playground will be completely assembled by tomorrow or Wednesday morning at the latest. We will still have to fill in the dirt and gravel around the playground.

The teams that went inside to play with the children brought stickers, Wikki Stix, bubbles, and t-shirts to paint. The children were so excited to see us and came running over asking to be picked up. It was heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same, especially seeing the older children. Knowing that some of those children have been there since 5 is so hard to imagine. This orphanage is very well taken care of. The children have great classrooms for school and it is very neat and orderly. The grounds are clean and the director seems to take a lot of pride in her orphanage and the children.

It was awesome to see the playground in person and know that we ALL did this together. It is just amazing to see the year of hardwork and dedication in person. Our team is just fantastic. Each person brings something different to this experience to make it one we will all never forget.

After our day at the orphanage we went back to our house and had dinner. We have a Kazakh woman that cooks for us and last night she made plov. Plov is a rice dish with veggies and meat, it was so yummy!

We are having some issues with blogger and can't upload pictures right now. We will try again tomorrow.

Almaty Day 1

Sunday, 4/1/10 - 10:05 pm

We landed this morning at 2:00 and were brought to our house. The house we are living in has three floors. The first floor has the kitchen, bedroom for the lady who lives here, and three bathrooms. The second floor has all the bedrooms and a living room. Susan and Sean have one room with a double bed, Jillian/Ann/Gretchen/Alaina have a room with two bunk beds, Christy/Christie have a room with two bunk beds, Chris is in the living room on a couch bed and Stacy/Kim have a bedroom with two bunk beds. It is very close living and we feel like we are at sleep away camp. Susan has even dazzled us with her wide array of camp tunes!

This afternoon we were picked up at 1:00 to go to our hosts house. We had a nice meeting to go over our schedule, got to meet more of the Almaty staff and had a fabulous dinner. It was so awesome to be able to sit and talk with the Kazkah's about their culture, history and talk about our children. It was a great way to start the week.

Tomorrow we are up and out by 7. Goodnight!

We made it!

We are here! All 11 people, 33 bags, 7 wheel chairs and 1 box arrived safely. We are exhausted but very excited! More soon......
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The night before

In just about 12 hours, 11 people from all over the country will embark on a life changing journey to Kazakhstan. For most of these people, it will be a return trip to the country where our child(ren) were born. For some it will be a new experience. As we sit here and contemplate how we arrived at this point it all seems miraculous. Just two short years ago we started Two Hearts with the dream of sending shoes to Kazakhstan.

From shoes to a playground.....

In two years we have managed to accomplish things that are beyond our wildest hopes and dreams. If you were to ask us then if we would be leading a team of 11 people on a trip to build a playground, we would have said no way. When we were presented with the playground idea by the orphanage director in Kaz, we thought it would take along time. It is amazing the doors God opened for us and the people He led to our lives. We could not do this without so many of our supporters, especially the 9 other people joining us, and from the bottom of our hearts we say thank you.

As we leave we ask that you be in prayer for the following:

1) The travel of all 11 people. That our planes are not delayed and we arrive safely in Almaty on Sunday morning.
2) Our time in Kaz. That we may complete the task at hand while providing God's promise of HOPE to the children.
3) Our health in Kaz.

We will try and update this blog daily. We will also update Twitter frequently as that can be done easily. We look forward to being the hands and feet of Jesus and hope you will follow along.

The complete list

We just wanted to acknowledge all who sent in donations for our upcoming trip. Thank you just doesn't seem enough but know that we are forever grateful for your generosity.

Alysa English (CO)

Donna Preston (FL)

Kathy Walker (CT)

Lynn Piascyk (CT)

The Whal Family (IN)

Inga Bass (MS)

Jennifer Tenney (IN)

Tanya Cummings (IN)

Angie Wiggins (IN)

Micah Pettes (IN)

Clada Warf (TN)

Colleen Conches (PA)

Sandy Crow (TN)

Andrea Caesar (NH)

The Trawick Family (GA)

Sandi Thompkins (FL)

Ken and Mary Miller (IN)

Herm and Ada Mae Miller (IN)

Donna Perkins (FL)

The Beede Family (MO)

The Horvath Family (GA)

The Woodward Family (NY)

The Crump Family (MO)

The Mechem Family (MD)

The Beasley Family (NC)

The Kudwa Family (WI)

The Gustafson (WA)

The Elrod Family (IL)

The Young Family (MO)

The Robinson Family (Germany)

The Travers Family (RI)

The Collins Family (MO)

The Soum Family (MO)

The Meta Family (OH)

The Biddle Family (CA)

The Akavan Family (FL)

The Cohen Family (CT)

The Dunne Family (VA)

New Have Lighthouse Ministries (MO)

Bright Beginnings Good Samaritans

Pre-K Class (MO)

Anona United Methodist Church (FL)

St. Johns Medical Supply (MO)

Community Gospel Church (IN)

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (UT)

In honor of Ida Gooley's 85th birthday:

Mary Jo Arpaia

Linda and Sal Russo

Mark and Karen Pallotto

Wayne and Wendy Luciani

Ettore and Gloria Luciani

Anthony and Wendy Coppola

Little Lions Cloth Diapers

The Wikki Stix Company

Each person that made it possible to purchase four medical boxes from Project C.U.R.E.

Packed and ready to go

T-9 days until we take off!

We are packed and ready to go. A sincere thank you to everyone that sent in donations. We are so grateful to you all for helping us supply the baby homes with the items they specifically requested.

Between the 11 of us we will have 23 bags of donations packed with the following:

90 rattles

13 Bumbos

35 snowsuits

300 shoe covers

40 tubes of diaper rash cream

110 pieces of clothing

60 sneakers

20 dozen cloth diapers

100 crib sheets

100 mattress pads

120 pajamas

188 bubbles

50 craft items

140 bottles of hand sanitizer

1000 Wikki Stix

2000 pieces of medical items and vitamins

7 wheelchairs

"God can turn a little bit of HOPE into a whole lot of Joy"

Our LOI's are here!

This morning we woke up to Letter of Invitations (LOI's) in our inbox. Next step is sending off our VISA applications with our passports. We are sure praying we get them back SOON! We leave in 20 days!

This weekend we are organizing all the donations we have received and will ship them to our team members to bring. We have so many great items, stay tuned for pictures and a complete list of what will be in all 37 (!!!!) bags we are taking!

Donations thus far

Here are some pictures of the great donations we have received!

Thank you so much to the following families:

Dunne-VA
Horvath-GA
Woodward-NY
Mechem-MD
Beasley-NC
Kudwa-WI
Gustafson-WA
Elrod-IL
Robinson-RI
Meta-OH
Travers-RI (DeSantis-RI)
New Haven Lighthouse Ministries-MO
Bright Beginnings Good Samaritans Pre-K Class

Updated 3/15 donation request list

We have had an overwhelming response to the list of donations we posted just last week. In order to keep our luggage manageable we have to redo the list. We will get every donation we have received thus far to Kazakhstan. We thank you all very much.

- Diaper rash cream
- Sneakers size infant to 5 years old in new condition
- 8-10 bumbo seats
- Bean bag chairs (to be shipped at a later date)

If you are called to donate any of these much needed items, please send them to us by April 1st.

Thank you Wikki Stix!

We received this awesome email from Ann, who is traveling with us this spring, about the Wikki Stix we are wanting to bring with us:

"I emailed the company this morning asking if I could get a discount on Wikki Stix and wrote about our trip. They emailed me back and are going to DONATE some!!!!!!! How awesome is that!!! I am shaking right now! Wikki Stix emailed me & said they will be shipping 1000 restaurant units to me tomorrow!!! I am so excited! :) Each kid will get their own place mat & 8 wikki stix's."

Thank you Ann and Wikki Stix's!

In need of....

Do you have any new or very gently used crib toys/rattles? If so, please consider donating them to us by April 1st. We could use them in Kazakshtan!

Our shipping address is:

Two Hearts for Hope
P.O. Box 1928
Lebanon, MO 65536

We did it!

In just under a year we have fully funded our Playground Project! A great big THANK YOU to every person that helped support our dream. We knew we could do it with our great supporters!

We certainly look forward to sharing with you all how HOPE changes lives! 1 month and 3 weeks to go!

Ways to give

In 1 month, 4 weeks and 1 day we leave for our mission trip - but who's counting right?!? :)

We have had people not able to join us in Kazakhstan ask how to support our trip. Right now there are three main areas we need help:

1) The first thing everyone can be doing for us is lifting our team and our trip up in prayer. We ask that you pray for each person taking this journey with us. All of these people felt called to serve with us and we are blessed to have them all. Please also pray for our trip. That we may be successful in our immediate goal of building a playground and in our long term goals to build relationships.

2) We are wanting to bring items the orphanages have specifically asked us to supply. If you are called to donate any of these much needed items, please send them to us by April 1st.

- Hand sanitizer
- Antibacterial soap
- Sneakers size infant to 5 years old in new condition
- Pajamas size 0-2 years old in new condition
- 8-10 bumbo seats
- Bean bag chairs (to be shipped at a later date)
- Beads and string for making necklaces
- Small packages of balloons
- Bubbles
- Foam stickers

As we get these items in we will be removing them from the list in order to save room in our luggage. We will also add more items as we hear from our team in Kazakhstan.

3) We will be collecting monetary donations for the trip up until the week we leave. If you would like to contribute this way please use the DONATE button on the right side of this page.

Thank you for all the love and support we have been shown!

And the winners are

Thank you so much to everyone for the support of our raffle! We were able to raise over $3000 for our trip this spring! This will surely go a long way to help the orphans in Almaty City!

All winners were picked using random.org. Random.org assigns numbers to each entry purchased and randomly chooses a winner. The raffle records are all public, if you would like to see them please feel free to ask. Two Hearts will have all the items that we have shipped out by March 8th. We will ask that our donators do the same but can't control that.

Thank you again for helping make a difference in the lives of the orphans! We are so blessed and humbled by each and every one of you! Know that YOU are helping make lives a little more hopeful!

Winners:

#1 - Ann Hochstetler
#2 - Patty Carlson
#3 - Beth Cohen
#4 - Ann Hochstetler
#5 - Alaina Falk
#6 - Carolyn Tarpey
#7 - Karen Floyd
#8 - Trudi Behr
#9 - Susan Serra
#10 - Kate Carbone
#11 - Quaintance Miller
#12 - Alaina Falk
#13 - Mollie Brown
#14 - Denice Gustafson
#15 - Vanessa Carlin
#16 - Denice Gustafson
#17 - Susan Serra
#18 - Jonathan White
#19 - Muriel Elrod
#20 - Muriel Elrod
#21 - Julie Clifford
#22 - Denice Gustafson
#23 - Suzette Jeckel
#24 - Rona Morin
#25 - Kathy Sampson
#26 - Julie Palazini
#27 - Paul Cisco
#28 - Joanne Morley
#29 - Carolyn Tarpey

2 Hearts 2 Kaz : Mega Fundraiser!

CLOSED! Thank you to all who helped our mission trip! Winners will be announced ASAP!

We are very excited about all the items we have this month! We are so very very thankful to all who donated these great gifts and made this great giveaway happen!

$5 for one entry or 12 entries for $50 . Contact us at info@twoheartsforhope.org with your item #'s you want your entries to go to.

For more information on how to enter your name please email us at info@twoheartsforhope.org .

For more information about Two Hearts for Hope go to http://www.twoheartsforhope.org/


Thank you for helping us improve lives!

AND THE DONATED ITEMS ARE:


#1 - Kindle Wireless Reading Device (6" Display, Global Wireless, Latest Generation): At just over 1/3 of an inch thick, this slim and lightweight reading device features over 400,000 books, magazines, and blogs. The Kindle Library holds 1,500 books, has a long battery life and a paper-like display that reads like real paper without the glare. New York Times best sellers and new releases are $9.99 unless marked otherwise!




#2 - Coby DP702 7-inch Widescreen Digital Photo Frame (Woodgrain): 7 inch widescreen digital photo frame displays JPEG photo files, plays MP3 and WMA music files. Photo slideshow mode with music, calendar and clock with alarm timer. Full-size USB port for use with flash memory drives, integrated speaker and full-function remote control. Wall-mountable design with detachable stand.





#3 - Build a Bear dress with bows: This great handmade dress fits a girl 4-6 (4 at the thigh, 5 below the knee and 6 above the knee worn with capris or jeans). Retail value $20.00 Included are two sets of hair bows. First set are 1-1/2 " grosgrain ribbon sized for age 3 and up. Second set is 5/8" and 7/8" ribbon sized for 12 months-2T.


























#4 - Spoiled Silly Baby Blanket with Mei Tai baby carrier: Each Spoiled Silly baby blanket is handmade out of Minky Chenille to approximately 34x 30 inches. Winner can choose boy or girl color. Mei-Tai baby carrier is embroidered with beading and made from high quality velvet.






#5 - Crayon bag with Little Leaps "Grow With Me" learning system: The handmade crayon bag holds 22 crayons on each side for a total of 44 crayons in slots sewn on the outside of the tote. This bag comes with crayons and coloring books! Retail value $25. "Grow With Me" learning system comes with Leap ahead game. New in box, for age 9-36 months.









#6 - Beautiful handmade quilt: Back by popular demand, we have this one-of-a-kind quilt featuring aspects of the Kazakhstan flag in beautiful yellow and blues. This quilt is NOT made yet and will take APPROXIMATELY 6-8 MONTHS from when the winner is announced to ship. This quilt is truly gorgeous and will look great in any room of your home!







#7 - Monkabee t-shirt and blanket:The winner can choose a short ($8) or long ($10) sleeved tee and a 20x30 ($18) or 30x40 ($28) blankie. Visit Monkabee's shop on Etsy! http://www.etsy.com/shop/monkabee







#8 - Green with Envy cuff bracelet by Leslie Dean Designs - This is just a fabulous and very elegant cuff bracelet. It is handmade and one of a kind. It is 2 "wide and covered both sides with a lush moss green velvet. The beautiful dark and light green costume jewel was once a beautiful brooch from the 30's. Inside the velvet is an adjustable metal cuff that is sized to fit most wrists and is somewhat adjustable. There is no doubt that you will get compliments wearing this bracelet! All your friends will be green with envy! www.LeslieDeanDesigns.etsy.com





#9 - Children's bag with books: Mickey Mouse handmade all purpose bag is great for carrying books! This comes with five books for your 3-7 year old! Perfect for car trips and overnights!





















#10 - $25 gift certificate to Kick Ass Bow's: Unique, handcrafted bows will look great in your daughters hair. All bows are custom, all of the time! www.kickassbows.com






#11 - Ceramic Honey Pot: This honey pot is hand thrown and painted. Use for honey or sugar, this is a charming addition to any kitchen. http://www.etsy.com/shop/PattyBilbro
















#12 - Original, abstract painting for a child's room: Liz Nelson likes to explore concepts or ideas in her paintings, often in a somewhat abstract and subtle way. She draws inspiration from poetry and the written word and enjoys mixing aspects of illustration with a more free form of painting. Painting will be approximately 12 x12. Winner will choose up to 3 colors and painting will include child's name and come ready to hang. Painting will take 30 days to complete. Contact info: liznelson.artist@gmail.com.



#13 - Relaxation Bundle - You are bidding on a Bath and Body Works spa basket that includes shower gel, body lotion, fragrance mist, and bubble bath. You also will win 4 handmade orange hooded adult sized bath towels.








#14 - Summer infant day and night video monitor: Monitor is new in box.
















#15 - Summer infant bath and shower center with hand knit blanket, hat and scarf: Tub us new in box (baby not included). Lovely hand knit baby blanket in blue and white with hat and scarf.










#16 - Evenflo baby suite classic play yard and handmade blanket: The play yard is new in box with carrying case and does NOT include the bassinet. . Blanket is blue and cream with blue and lime green ribbon.












#17 - It's a Small World handmade quilt: The quilt is 45" x 45" and would be a good child's snuggle-up quilt or is certainly nice enough to be used as a wall hanging in a kid's room.











#18 - Summer infant bath tub with baby insert and handmade pink "lovie" blanket: Tub is new in box and shower is NOT included (baby not included) Retail value $39.99. Hot pink furry and hot pink fleece "lovie" size blanket with hot pink and light pink ribbon.









#19 - Handmade all purpose tote filled with 4 dozen gourmet cookies and glass necklace: This medium handmade tote is good for carrying anything. Retail value $20.00 The Cooks Next Door will make, package and ship 4 dozen gourmet cookies. Your choice of the following: White Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal, Triple Chocolate, Toffee Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter, Molasses Spice. http://thecooksnextdoor.com/ This Lady Moon Glass necklace is a unique, one-of-a kind, kiln fired glass piece. www.ladymoonglass.com




#20 - Custom Boutique hand painted outfit: Winner will receive a custom designed outfit of your choice. Skirt or pants, long sleeve or short...the sky is the limit! Everything is hand sewn and painted! . http://shop.ebay.com/kwall88/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=25












#21 - Diamond earrings with Lady Moon glass necklace: These gorgeous sparkling diamond earrings light up your face with a brilliance never seen before. They are hand crafted in stunning feminine gold mountings that display the diamonds to their maximum beauty. To be worn on any occasion, both casual and formal, these earrings will become an everyday part of your life.14K White Gold Round Diamond 4-Prong Stud earrings (3/8ctw, K-L, I2-I3).. This Lady Moon Glass necklace is a unique, one-of-a kind, kiln fired glass piece. www.ladymoonglass.com







#22 - Baby trend car seat with two handmade blankets: Car seat is new, never before used but does not have a box due to damage (to the box only) during shipping. . 1 car seat size cream swirl and light blue satin with brown and brown ribbon . 1 white satin and white fleece "lovie" size blanket with lime green and brown ribbons






#23 - Handmade bracelet in Kazakhstan colors: Freshwater pearl coin bracelet, in shimmering blue and bright gold with sterling silver accents and love knots. Made by Cynthia Leonard












#24 - Refurbished Dell Model D505 laptop: Laptop is refurbished and has a 15 inch screen.














#25 - Rag Bag with scarf and glass necklace: 1 rag bag Camo/Black and orange with one pocket. . Beautiful black crocheted scarf and a Lady Moon Glass necklace.













#26 - Hand made, custom crochet and beaded socks for girls: Toddler up until size 13 children's shoe. Similar styles seen in Nordstrom, . Total pairs: 29 pairs, assorted. All are clean, new and unworn (except for the modeled ones.)








#27 - Quotable canvas art from Barnes and Noble: . Perfect for home or office.
















#28 - Jazz 3.1 MP Digital Movie Camera: Camera is new in box! Camera details: Digital Still Camera, PC Camera, Video Recording, Mass Storage, SD/MMC Card Slot, 32MB Internal Memory, 1.5" TFT LCD, TV Out, 3 x AAA Battery, 4X Digital Zoom, JPEG/AVI.












#29 - Framed, original adoption poem: This is an original poem from an upcoming children's book. The size of the white frame is 11x14. This poem can't be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the author. This will look great in any child's room!


Tickets are $5 each or 12 for $50.