Shannon, that is so great to hear - I'm glad my humble thoughts are helping you. I have more coming this week.

You are very welcome, Courtney.

Angela, I don't think we should feel guilty, because as the parents, we are in charge. It will take an explanation to the child of what is expected in response, and then becomes like the many other scripts we use as parents, "Use your words," and my all time favorite, "Try that again with respect." As for the five-minute chore, it can quickly become 10, 15 or whatever it takes to get the response we require. We determine the chore and if a five minute chore becomes a 45 minute chore, that is her choice. When all else fails, the time becomes the number of minutes early to bed.

She is an American, but lives in Australia now. I really love the Hillsong chapel CD which features her a lot. The girls love to watch those videos, too.

Mimi, thank you so much for giving such a good answer to Nicole's question. I would agree that reading the Word and praying together nightly is a huge benefit to a marriage. Dad holds me close and prays over me every night - it means more to me than just about anything else he does be a good husband.

Great - thank you! We love "E is for Ethiopia" too. I think I'm going to have to order Mama Panya's Pancakes today.

More good books! I can see my Amazon cart filling up. I think I'll compile everyone's suggestions into a list on the blog. Thanks so much.

Julie, thank you so much! That is a great list.

Nicole, that is a really great question. Let me give it some thought.

Sarah, I appreciate hearing that. Thank you.