and wears disco pants. At least that's so according to Phoebe's latest school journal entry.

My personal religious philosophies are all about Mother Nature, and the god-ness in all the people around us as exhibited in good deeds and kindness. My sanctuary can only be reached by climbing onto a bike. It's comprised of open spaces and the beauty of the earth, and the safety I feel in that. I believe in God, a higher power through which all things can be traced. I chat with him or her on my solo bike rides and through that I find a sense of peace, and sometimes some bonus wisdom - so I guess you could call that prayer.

My daughters join my mother in the encapsulated sanctuary of the Presbyterian church on Sunday mornings. I'm glad that they're getting this education, and that they have the opportunity to explore religion. Of the organized Christian denominations, Presbyterianism is one that is progressive and accepting, and I'm happy to have them go to that particular church. At the same time I also try to make it clear to them that it is just one of many belief systems. They're a little young to gain that understanding yet, but my goal is to make sure that they choose their OWN theology as they grow and explore their beliefs. I'm thankful for some base introductory Judaism in their lives, and hope to teach them more about it, as well as Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and any others that should come up.

The choice to explore these religions further will be theirs. In the meantime, Phoebe happily believes in God, and is curious about this being who has curly hair and wears Disco pants.