A Little Girl's Dream

Bridget and her Kitty!

Some of you know about Bridget. She is the sweet 12 year old girl I met on New Year's Day this year. She had been following my blog and wanted to meet me in person to give me all the money she had saved in her piggy bank, insisting it go towards Daniel's adoption. That '80 something' dollars was the most generous and heartfelt gift I've almost ever received. It also tells you a little something about this special girl. She has a big heart. In fact, now that I know Bridget better, I'd say her heart might even be a little too big for her tiny 12 year old frame. Caring hurts sometimes. And Bridget is always caring.

Bridget mentioned soon after we met that her biggest dream in life is to travel to Russia and meet some of these children face to face and help them. A big dream for a little girl, but I certainly resonate with it. And so, even though I knew the chances were minuscule, I told Bridget that if she raised the funds, she could join us on our next trip -- with parental approval of course. And this started the wonderful friendship I now have with her mother. Kim is so committed to supporting her daughter's dream, that she promised Bridget that if she were able to raise the funds to go, Kim would find a way for them to travel with us.

Lesson: Never underestimate the determination of a girl like Bridget! Since that January day we met, Bridget has raised close to $700 towards her airfare! You might have read in one of my earlier posts about her wildly creative marketing idea. She hit up everyone she knew for their 'orphaned' socks (you know, the ones that have no matches?) and she turned these throwaway items into adorable hand-stuffed and sewn creatures that come with their own adoption certificate! She then peddled her wares at school, in church, at girl scouts, to neighbors and family friends. She even left a basket of them at our house in case a random visitor here might want to support her efforts!

That brings us to now. I personally must travel to Russia before May 15th. Bridget still needs to raise about $500 more to cover her airfare to Siberia, if she wants to go with us. If you would like to purchase one of Bridget's creations or would simply like to support the efforts of an incredibly caring little soul, you can do so via my paypal account. Simply put "Bridget" in the subject line and be sure to include your home address if you want a sock creature! I will make sure Bridget receives your donations. And maybe, just maybe, she'll be able to come with us!

Bridget plans to document the entire trip via her own blog, with photos, stories and video clips. She also already has an entire suitcase stuffed with gifts she has been collecting for the children. If she goes, she plans on taking only a carry-on for herself, to allow more room for items for the orphanage kids. How many 12 year olds do you know that would do that?

Bridget & her mom, Kim

Bridget's mom is going to make the decision within the week. That gives Bridget very little time to come up with the rest. If you feel that nudge to help her, please do. You will get a lovely hand-written thank you card in the mail from this sweetheart!

If you can't help financially, please consider praying for Bridget as she tried to meet the deadline for raising the needed funds. We would simply ADORE having her and her mom along for the adventure!