She was still dripping from her bath when my newly-five-year-old told me, "Mommy, I washed my heart so I can learn more better." She rubbed the towel over her arms and tummy. I gazed at my dark-haired beauty and remembered a Bible time we had a few days ago when we talked about Jesus making us clean. I tucked a wet strand of hair behind her ear. "What do you need to learn, Emily?"
"Listening," she replied.
"Oh, Jesus does that for us, doesn't He? I'm sure He's so proud of you for wanting to be a good listener." I helped her finish dressing and took her over to the window to photograph her. I love to remember my children's simple, yet profound words with a little journaling and a picture. And so, she grinned and cooperated nicely and showed off her beautiful, clean heart. We're ALL hiding His Word in our hearts! (Psalm 119:11)
Four year-old Emily reciting Psalm 23.
Emily's drawings have transformed this past year, especially her people. Where sticks once held up a large, over-sized "pumpkin" head, a body takes it's place. Arms have substance and fingers are thicker. Toes are now attached to legs, as well! Backgrounds are vividly coloured in and precious care is taken in creating her life-like people. She even looked in the mirror to find out where the ears go :) But what is even more amazing is the versatility of her art. This particular drawing was given to Daddy, with love, and he was told it was a picture of him. Later, when I needed a lift, the portrait was gifted to me with the assurance that it was indeed a replica of me. I suppose if we're off to the grandparents' house in the next few days, it might also resemble them :) 
