The Season of Giving

I've been reflecting lately on how much I have. If you live in a house, have clothes, plenty of food to eat, and your own private computer its safe to say you are one of the richest people in the world. I often don't think of myself as rich, but many people live on less than $1/day. The following story gave me a reality check:

Adanna’s name is a beautiful African word meaning “father’s daughter.” But Adanna won’t live until the next harvest season unless something drastic happens. In her home country of Zimbabwe, there are no jobs, there is no money, and the only thing certain is the death that surrounds her.

The expected life span for people in her country is only thirty-three. She has watched her mother, her father, and her sister waste away to AIDS. Adanna is now in charge of her family. She is the head of the household.

She is 10 years old.
Pages 85-86 The Red Letters, Tom Davis

In this season of giving, if you would care to donate to children like Adanna, check out Children's Hope Chest.

Peace to you my friends.

The Countdown Begins

Less than a week until Christmas. This year we have intentionally simplified.

• We put up a tree and hung stockings and that was it for decorations.
• We didn't send out Christmas cards, but only returned cards to those who sent us one. This is the second year we've done so and the cards we received were far less than last year.
• We have limited the amount of presents we are buying and giving.
• We are more spontaneous, inviting people over, going out to look at Christmas lights.
• We are reflecting on all of the good gifts we have every day, a warm house, nice clothes, plenty of food, a loving family. We are the richest people in the world.

My husband asked me what I wanted for Christmas and I couldn't think of anything. I feel God's peace and joy deeply in my soul. Psalm 63 says, "My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods." This year I can honestly say, I am satisfied.

Writer's Block

This is how I feel...

Well I was working on my next book and now I'm at a complete standstill. I just don't know if what I've been writing will be helpful for older kids w/ SPD... I met w/ an OT and may partner with her to finish the book...

Ugh!

Maybe I'll scrap the SPD book and write a book on dealing w/ puberty. Most of the ones out there are written by professionals, which is not bad... However, when it comes right down to dealing w/ the day to day issues, it helps to have a first hand perspective. So if anyone knows of a good book to help your language delayed highly visual child learn about sex and puberty let me know. I'm wide open for one...