This may be an idea that is around here a lot, but my friends are doing this and it gave me the chills so I wanted to share.
They bought a puzzle. They are getting help putting it together by their friends/family sponsoring a puzzle piece (or more.) (1 piece is $10, 3 is $25, 5 is $40, etc) They've called it something like "Piecing together our adoption fund." Anyways, if you sponsor a piece they'll write your name, Bible verse, special quote, whatever you want on the back. Once it's done they're going to put it in a double sided glass frame to display. That way they'll always be reminded of the support and love they received in trying to bring their children home.
I thought it was such a beautiful idea!
I LOVE this idea! I only have a few problems:
1. I can't imagine finding a puzzle that I like enough to have framed forever... maybe one with a personal photo... I don't know.
2. I don't like asking people for money. I am more the type of person when asked what they would like for a present say something like, "Oh, you know, whatever. I don't really need anything."
Well, maybe I don't say that to my mom... but to everyone else! My mom is just a really good shopper and gift giver.
I am nervous about what people would think if I sent them a letter or something asking for them to send me money. It makes my stomach churn. I would feel like the people standing on the highway with cardboard signs. (But those people make a killing, so maybe I should just hold up a sign and stand by the highway.)
3. What if no one ever picks us. And we end up dying alone. Like the couple on the movie UP.
By the way, that movie makes me ball hysterically. The beginning where it shows the couple going through life... and she paints the nursery... then she comes home and is crying all alone... and they repaint the room. It makes me teary just typing it.
Anyway, what do you think?
5 comments:
I think if you explain it just like you did here at least a few of your relatives would understand and buy some puzzle pieces. I think your mom could help come up with a photo that would be meaningful...being the really good shopper. :-)
I personally don't have any issues with fund-raising for adoptions. Some people will say that if you don't have the money you should not adopt. Well, many people have have health insurance when they bring a child into the world, so they are not 100% footing the financial cost (and yes, I am aware there are some people who do, but they are not usually the ones who are critical of fund-raising.) A letter sent out to relatives or friends would not be out of line. You are not asking for money for yourself. You could also ask people on your FB page what they think would be a good way to raise money. You might be surprised what people are willing to do/give.
There are a lot of ideas out there. In the Chinese adoption circles there is a thing called the 100 good wishes quilt. You could do something like that, but have people "buy" quilt squares. You could put all the same things on the square that you would put on the puzzle pieces, and have something that you would like in your home forever. And with your artistic abilities, you could create some awesome quilt squares with fabric paint!
Another idea that is routinely done is to have a raffle for some items (if I remember correctly you have a cousin that creates nice afghans and could be persuaded to donate one for the cause), or simply put a chip-in widget on your blog where people could donate as they choose. If I remember correctly, there is one place where you can create a fund where people's donations are tax-deductible.
I would totally buy pieces for your puzzle.I would do anything to help you realize your dream!
I think it's a great idea. I think more people would be willing to help than you realize. Chase and I would gladly buy a puzzle piece for you. If you don't really like the idea of a puzzle, what about those frames at weddings where people all sign the mat in the frame with well wishes. Then you could put a pic in it with your little family when you get your baby. And I do believe wholeheartedly that you I'll have your baby one day.
Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Amanda Guthrie
hey sarah! i just read your comment on my blog- thank you! and here is a little secret for you--we plan on adopting someday too. :) i think it is so so awesome that you are doing that and i'm excited to read about your journey!
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