Just as Mary "treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." (Luke 2:19) I have learned to take the time to treasure my children, and see that they are gifts from God. They show us truths about him that, as adults, we have lost the ability to see. They are totally unfettered and untainted by our world. We assume that they learn from us when in reality we have much to learn from them. They model how we are supposed to live. "I tell you the truth; anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." (Mark 10:16) All of these reflections are dear to my heart because they are lessons God implanted in my daily life to speak to me. They are like hidden treasures to remind me of his presence and plan. "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children." (Matthew 11:25)

The first book in The True Life Adventures series based on real-life dogs, Spunky Monkey The Magical Poodle is a dog with Epilepsy who wanders off while at the park with his family and em"barks" on a day-long journey of self discovery. As he tries to find food, friends and medicine, he encounters a cast of funny, caring, helpful friends who give him hope, confidence and courage to find his way home. The True Life Adventures series uses real-life dogs to explore the issues of illness, disability and other life lessons from a gentle, entertaining and uplifting perspective that all children can relate to.