Book Review

Ok, it's been a while since I read this book, but I would like to know if anyone else has. I personally thougt this book atrocious. It paints a picture of a domineering, controlling woman who thought she was hearing the voice of God and no one dare contradict her. I bought this book for someone for Christmas but did not give it to them after reading it. I've heard so many wonderful things about Amy Carmichael, but this book seemed to point out every thing contrary to scripture about her life and very little about the influence of her ministry. It's mostly pointing out Amy's personality as if she were someone who had a better link to God than the rest of us, constantly stating her downfalls were few yet the whole book is full of stories that reflect such error.
So I am wondering if anyone has read any other biographies on Amy Carmichael. Is this the true image of her life and ministry or is there a better resource out there?

Material World

www.sportsgoodsindia.in/Images/toys.png

Sometimes I just look at all the STUFF and get sick to my stomach. Toys, decorations, pillows, blankets, dishes, flowers, candles, clothes, clothes, clothes, etc. etc. etc. STUFF EVERYWHERE!

We've been reading "Little House" series to little E and you know what - children used to survive with only one doll. Sharing a room or even a bed. Toys? They were few and hand made and special. Not cheap and overabundant. And they knew what it was to work - to work hard and knew where their food, shelter and clothing came from . Did they appreciate those things more? I don't know. The grass is always greener, you know...

But I daily ask God for wisdom in teaching my children this world is empty. The idols of our hearts are everywhere and so available today more than ever. I sometimes wonder if "homesteadding" would make a difference. Not just in my children's view of material goods, but in my own. Not having everything so available, so cheap, right at my fingertips. Am I being ungreatful? Hmmm...that can be a struggle. For I am sure if things were flipped there would be days where I would long for the instant gratification.

But how do we do it? How do we raise our children to be givers instead of always receiving? How do we teach them that the gift of salvation is far better than all the toys in the world. How do we get them not to idolize their possessions.

Yes, I know the answer, don't I? Model it myself. Give, be content and rejoice always in God alone - ready at any time to part with any thing because it is His. And be constantly thankful. Yet still I sometimes wonder if in times past the task may have been a little easier.

Little "Z"

Sunrise...Sunset...

Swiftly go the days...

Isn't that so true? As I watched my little E on the playground this week I realized she has grown so much! Last summer she struggled to climb the steps to the slide, two summers ago she was just learning to walk. And now she's climbing all over, running and jumping and telling all kinds of interesting stories.

Tonight as I cuddled little Z before bed time I decided to revel in these moments. Snuggle him just a moment longer. Feel his baby-soft toes just one more time. Kiss those soft cheeks just another moment.

Just 2 1/2 short years ago E gazed at me with those same adoring mother-can-do-no-wrong eyes that he has. Now she's a "big girl" and doesn't need to cuddle (unless, of course, she does...) and doesn't need to hold hands (unless of course...she does...) you know what I mean. So independent, so dependent all at once.

The other night as I was complaining to my dear love about the lack of sleep little Z is causing he told me not to wish for him to grow up too soon. I thought that a rather silly thing to say just then, but it's true. Sleep comes eventually and so does another challenge. Once one hurdle is over, another one arises.

So for these few moments I will snuggle with my children and enjoy just one more sleepless night before they get too big for "huggies" and "zurbits".

Oh Joy!

I've got about 2 minutes before E wakes up from her nap - just wanted to post some of her silly musings today:

"I've got two eyes, so I can see...I've got...four tongues!"

(very loudly, while I'm on the phone) "Auuuuuugahhhhh!! I'm a HIPPOPOTAMOS!"

"I put a little bit of water on the poodle...his feet were dirty from walkin' around on the ground."

"I just want a little bit of lick!" (no, E, you can't eat butter) "Just a little bit of lick!"

"Help!...The pillow is on my ear!"

"Oooohhh...this is beautiful mommy..." (holding up a baby boy's snowsuit at a garage sale)

Thats all for today....