Real Life at Rio Bend…..

PrincessesMeet the Princesses:

Irene and Tia came to Rio Bend in September of 2005 after living in a string of foster homes and shelters. I loved them immediately and agreed to adopt them. I tell them “You are a perfect example of Romans 8:28: God has a plan for everyone, and everything that happens is part of that plan. God led you to my home so you could become my daughters.” Both girls are doing well. Tia, who is now 18, recently graduated from high school and Irene (who is now 16) will be a high school sophomore.

Phoenix has been at Rio Bend for only a few months. At first, she had a tough time adjusting, and won a spot on the prayer list of many Rio Bend residents. However, she is beginning to adjust well; she is just beginning to understand how families function. She has learned how to pray, how to play, and how to love and be loved. Sadie is a success story. She came to Rio Bend in August 2005 when she was 5 years old; she was the first child placed in the community. Over the next three years, she overcame pain and illness to become a good student and precious daughter and sister.

Aria was also five when she came to Rio Bend in May of 2006. She was completing her kindergarten year, but she had few literacy skills. Over the summer, I taught her to read; she learned very quickly. Although she had trouble talking too much and jumping out of her seat in the 1st Grade, her teachers and I recognized how bright she is. I requested that she be tested for the gifted and talented program, and she excelled in all areas of the test. She entered the program in 2nd Grade and no longer has trouble in school. Her teacher says she is a natural-born leader and a wonderful student. Aria recently celebrated her 8th birthday at the Rio Bend swimming pool. It is her 3rd birthday here in the community.

I firmly believe that if these girls had not come to Rio Bend, their lives would not be what they are today. All of them are happy. Their self-esteem is high. They know they are loved and they know they are all my “princesses.” They walk out of our house and are greeted by name and hugged by wonderful, loving Christian neighbors. These miracles could not happen without Rio Bend!!!

Sharon Horn; Rio Bend Mother of Six