(MC64)

Saturday, July 08, 2000

Dear Sisters,

This issue is about half the usual length. This results from my editor/publisher husband, Gerald, being unavoidably away in Israel for several weeks, plus the unusually busy pace at our house since he has returned home. I expect the next issue to be back to normal length.

Several brochures are enclosed with this issue. Distribution of these brochures is an easy way to share the ministry of The Mother's Companion with your friends and acquaintances.

I am presently working with my daughter, Jennifer, and my son-in-law, Steve, to bring together a Mother's Companion CD containing my favorite lullabies by various artists. This is a dream I have had for several years; I think it could be a blessing to many moms. It is likely to take many months before we have a final product---if we get that far. In the mean time, I would appreciate your prayers for this venture; especially that we would be able to obtain the permissions we need from the various artists at a reasonable price. (Due to limited resources, this CD never happened. But Jennifer and Steve have made a lovely lullaby CD Near to the Heart of God, with their own original music. This will be available in April 2006. See www.hallmusicministries.com.)

Baby Caleb (16 months) has been cutting four molars lately. He has comforted himself by nursing the night through. Two nights ago he had a fever, which kept me up with him in the rocking chair much of the night. Added to everything else, I've been thinking much about feeling tired the last little while.

I've heard it said that being a loving, nurturing mom is more work than any job in the world! I suspect this is true---even when baby is not cutting molars. Being a good mom isn't for slouches!

When one works long hours it is normal to grow weary. We should not be shy about asking God to give us the strength we need at such times. He cares, and He is able.