First of all, I'm happy to report that all six of our puppies (click here to see the MySpace blog with some of their photos) have been adopted by loving parents.  We are left now with only two adult dogs, our beloved Lucky and Lady.

Second, I have not yet received any questions for future "Bible Questions Answered" blogs (although I've been inspired to write something more about "hell" in the near future).  Perhaps you're all going to let me off easy...

Third, today (October 1st, 2007) is the 83rd birthday of former President Jimmy Carter.

Being raised in a somewhat right-wing household, I was slow to appreciate him.  And despite his apparent personal integrity and his being a key player in getting a peace treaty signed between Egypt and Israel, his presidency wasn't always honor roll material.  However, much of what he's done since his presidency, as well (perhaps) as my own increase in maturity, has exponentially increased my opinion of the man. 

He and his wife have spent a great deal of time volunteering with Habitat for Humanity.

He won the Nobel peace Prize in 2002.

The Carter Center he founded remains "committed to advancing human rights and alleviating unnecessary human suffering" through an assortment of philanthropic endeavors.

And if you haven't read his 2006 book Our Endangered Values yet, I encourage you to do so.  I think its balanced, respectful approach has filled an essential gap in the "family values" dialogue that so often seems dominated by extremists.

So happy birthday to Jimmy Carter!  And may he enjoy many more....  I am grateful for his contributions to our country and our world.

Click here to buy Our Endangered Values: America's Moral Crisis