Thank.you, Rachel, for this insightful piece. I loved reading those books to my daughter when she was in her early elementary years. What particularly struck me was your comments re: her love for Ma & Pa. I grew up on a dairy farm & now in my 78th year continue to thank God for Christian parents (several pictures of them hang on the wall next to my bed in my small apartment). My 3 siblings & I were taught the values of faith, hard work & each family member daily completing our chores in the barn as well as in the house, & we still refer to our mother as Ma. Sadly, Ma passed at age 50 as a result of clinical depression. As in your reflections, there were times of rejoicing as well as times of deep sorrow. Thank you for your writings. I look forward to reading more. BTW Anne Bakker is a member of my church, is leading a phenomenal women's Bible study & doing outstanding work with a large group of Chinese students at Concordia WI.

God continue to bless you in your vocation.