Homestudy update

Well yesterday I had my second of three homestudy visits. It was a great day as I reflect back on it. Started at my parent's house then off to the North Platte public library for two hours. We talked about a lot of things. Things like expectations and what if mine aren't reality, my family, my background and my kids. I found out that I have some hours of education to put in and our next visit is set to be sometime in the second week of January. Upon completion of that visit, my completed homestudy report should be in my hands and on the way to my agency for review in about ten days or maybe less. YES, there is progress. Too soon to say that I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, but at least now I think there is a dim glow somewhere up there. I'm so thankful for so many people who are so encouraging to me. I will be so glad to present a certain little princess to the western world. That day is coming!

A great quote

"I'd like to ask God why He lets poverty and injustice exist, why there are so many orphans and why He does nothing about it......But I am afraid that He will ask me the same question."

Baby steps and Big steps

My first homestudy visit was today, and it was enough to make me physically ill. Well at least my imagination was enough. When all was said and done, my social worker was there to help me, not find a reason not to let me adopt.
I receivced word last Thursday that the Dept of Education and the director of her baby house are very excited to get her HOME! God's blessings are abound in this process, and I am so happy! Next up... compiling things for my dossier and another visit with the social worker on the 19th (in North Platte which makes it so much easier).
So, the lines between the big steps and the baby steps are getting blurry, but every step is a step towards Eastern Europe which is where I want to go, so I guess they're all big!

One little girls impact

Just sitting here contemplating the impact one little girl has had on my life in such a short amount of time.
She has...
Given me the hope of a future filled with giggles, smiles and wonderment
Softened the hearts of so many with just a glance at her precious blue eyes
Raised awareness in hundreds of people even when she is clear across the world
Opened my eyes to a whole world of special abilities of a group of people gifted with one extra chromosome
Brought tears to my eyes with just the thought at the first time I get to see that beautiful smile
Brought me closer to my family in ways that I never knew possible
Brought me closer to God who I know now more than ever is a loving and gracious giver of all that is good (understood or not)
Caused me to contemplate the new life that will move into my house
Helped me learn more about who I am and what fulfills me
Made a crusader out of me

All of that and she's not even here yet. I can't wait for our life together!

Thank you little one and Thank you God! My heart is full!

Just Love Coffee Fundraiser

We have a long way to go to get my girl home!

I have started a great fundraiser where hopefully you get to buy some great coffee, and help my family bring this little one home. Just love coffee donates directly to my adoption proceeds with every package of coffee that is sold. I haven't had a chance to sample it yet, but I hear it is some of the best coffee you can buy. Could make a great Christmas gift too!

www.justlovecoffee.com/thecliftons

THIS LITTLE GIRL!

Makes me smile, cry, laugh with joy and Praise God!

A new day A new post A new direction

Well, as you might notice, I have a new clock!
A new clock for a new destination that God is leading me to. In a few days I'll post more regarding the beautiful child that I feel He is leading me to!

More to come!