One year today

Well, I suppose it's come and gone. Today, we've officially been waiting for a baby for one year. I must say, when we first started the process, I had it in my head it would probably be just under a year. But then again, I knew it could take a long time. This is one of those times where it's really hard to accept God's timing and be patient, but I know there are other families that have waited even longer.

I just pray that she will be here soon. Goodness knows I'll be ready. I think the only big thing I still need is a car seat. I have a year's supply of diapers, I'm working on the wipes, I bought the crib, made the bedding and accessories, and that's about it. My sweet mom and sister bought me some baby clothes the other day. It's nice to have just a few just in case it happens quickly, I don't like feeling unprepared. AND, in case you missed my last post, my amazing dad just made a custom shelved closet, so her room is mostly set up and organized. I love it! So one year down, hopefully no more to go =)

My dad is cooler than your dad!

Some of you know my dad, and that he's, well, awesome! You should have seen him whip up--I mean, help me with my science projects that I forgot about until the night before. Once I had to create a lighthouse, and we made one that was so real looking, and then he took a flash light magnifying glass and rigged it up so that the lighthouse lit up. Needless to say, I got an A+ on that. I've never met anyone else quite like him, someone who can take scraps and a neat idea, and literally make something that would blow your mind. He can do anything!

And he's a carpenter! Now, I have to say that it is SO convenient to have a dad that can build anything! I take advantage--I mean, he's so nice to come do stuff for me! Some of you might have seen our garage that he turned into a playroom about three years ago.

 

Before. Look at how handsome he is!

After

The cabinet on the left side there is a pull down bed. Absolutely my favorite part, perfect for guests.

Well, after 10 months of nagging, uh, I mean, sweetly reminding, he came over on Saturday and made my dream closet for the baby's room. I am so excited about it. When I was getting the room ready, I ripped out all the wire rack shelves because I can't stand them. Check out the new closet!

I love it! He's not quite finished yet. He's going to add some shelves on the sides. But I just had to share. 

I also want to give a quick shout out to my sweet sister and her hubs, Alison and Gabe, for coming out and spending the day power washing my house. I am so blessed to have such a loving family! I honestly took that for granted as a kid, thinking all families loved each other, got along really great, were always willing to help each other out, and just genuinely enjoyed spending time together. But then I remember so many of my friends, who would spend time with us as a family, would always say, "Wow, your family is so great, and you guys are so close! I wish my family was like that." Just another one of God's blessings! 

So to my family, I love you all so much, and thank you guys for your unending love, support, encouragement, and reliability. You guys are the best!

Meet the Coalson's!

One of the really great things about this adoption journey is that we get to connect with other families who are in the process, or have adopted. It's really awesome to be able to connect, share their journeys, pray for them, encourage them, and just know that we are not alone in this. There are other families who have been weary, and frustrated, and have come out with a beautiful child, and will tell you that it is so worth it!

I know I can complain about the wait sometimes, but the other day I was connected with a sweet little family that has been waiting for 3 years! Yes, you heard me right, that's three times longer than we've been waiting! They are adopting from Ethiopia, and like many other families, their process has been held up be many different reasons. They were finally matched 6 months ago, went to meet her, and still, 6 months later are waiting for the paperwork so they can bring her home. I can't even imagine!

Feel free to check out their blog and follow their story, and even consider making a contribution to their adoption. Fees for adopting internationally are huge, but we know that God will provide when we are following His will. They are having an online auction, so check that out too! Help them FINALLY bring beautiful Ryah home!
Here is their blog:
www.coalsonadoption.blogspot.com

God calls us to care for the orphans and widows. That doesn't mean everyone is called to adopt, but doing what you can to help those that are can be your way of obeying God's command. But most importantly, pray, pray, pray! We need prayer more than anything else!

Giveaway!

First of all, be sure to check out my dress giveaway at ForBeautifulBaby! Click on the link below, share the photo on Facebook, and be entered into a drawing to win this dress, but hurry, the contest ends October 15th!

Here's the link:

https://m.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=609687325739406&id=601459736562165&set=a.609687319072740.1073741829.601459736562165&source=46&__user=722157885

I've been working really hard in my Etsy shop, and things are going pretty well. I'm still trying to spread the word about it. I got my business cards in the mail last week, and I'm excited to have those. I've been asked to participate in two vendor fairs. That's really exciting too! I'm hoping that will really expand my customer base and spread the word on my shop! It would be amazing to be able to fund all of our adoption expenses through this!

This week, Summit Church has been doing community service projects. I signed up to work at two different pregnancy crisis centers. I went to the first one yesterday, and it was really nice! All the services they provide are free, and it is completely funded by donors and churches. I got the tour, and how the program works. They teach the parents life skills, and with each accomplishment, they earn "mommy bucks" which can be used to purchase baby items that are in the baby boutique, which is all donations as well. I might have to donate some of my baby stuff. 

I encourage all of you to check into your local crisis centers and see how you can help. I really feel donating your gently used items there would fulfill a greater need than donating them to Goodwill. These people provide a wonderful service to those mothers in need, and they share the gospel message with them too!