2012. Year of the Max.

There is a tight little group of Maxim lovers - a couple of ladies who have met him and interacted with him...and a few like me who have just loved his sweet face for awhile. We used to chat from time to time about what we could do to raise money for his grant fund, which families were possibly interested in him, and how we would  work like crazy women to raise funds for whatever family decided to take a chance on him.

As 2012 rolled around, I couldn't help but think that this was Maxim's year. This would be the year that he finally found his way home. I had to believe it. I couldn't stand to think otherwise.

When I saw this sweet new photo of him, I just had to print it out and stick it on the fridge. Some of my kids asked me if it was a photo of Theo. :)

While I'm always open to the idea of more children in this house, my husband has been more restrained. I'm not the nagging type, but I would periodically bring it up. Why don't we go? Look at this boy, or that girl...they all need families you know. They deserve a chance to love and be loved. The answer was always no...

...until the day that I decided to give up.

It was going to be the last time I would ask. My mind was made up. I was so certain that the answer would be no, yet again, that I wasn't even careful in the asking. I didn't beat around the bush, or wait until the perfect time of day. I blurted it out at the completely wrong time, in a rush. I would get it out of the way and then turn my attention to advocacy for good after hearing the word "no" once again.

 OK. Let's do it, he said.

So I was right on both counts. And if you know me at all you know how I love to be right! 2012 is the year for Maxim. And it was the last time that I would ever ask.

Yes, our hands are full. Yes, our schedule is hectic at times. No, the laundry is never done. The dishes aren't either.

BUT...

The fridge is full. We have extra bedrooms. And full hearts, thanks in part to the blessings we find in Ralph and Theo and Zhen.

There are several ways to come along side us as we work to bring Maxim home. We have accounts set up to receive tax deductible gifts through Project Hopeful HERE, and with Reece's Rainbow HERE.

We are also running a silent auction at http://maximimpact.blogspot.com/. You may leave a comment to place a bid there. One of the items I'm auctioning is this dress that I bought for Ruby in Ukraine. Isn't that fancy?!

Now you know the story of Maxim. We can't wait to add him to our crew!! Thanks for your support!