The TRUTH Will Set You Free - The blog from - Page 18 of 164

Posted on August 19, 2024 by TonyAugust 23, 2024

The anchors, the weather and sports reporters, the investigative reporters, and the editorialists all talked a blue streak night after night. So, it was ironic when Theo felt something like the stroke of a paintbrush across his heart. Because it wasn’t the same feeling as a physical paintbrush stroke.

It was more like a blue streak of cool light.

And it happened as he listened to a late night, local talkshow host talk about something in the Bible. But the host didn’t sound like a preacher. He sounded more like a reporter who related current events to verses in the Bible. And every time he pointed out another truth, it tore away another layer of darkness from Theo’s eyes. The truth sort of pierced right into him like a needle in the hand of skilled nurse. No pain.

So, night after night, Theo would tune in. And night after night he’d hear more truth that he hadn’t heard from churches and other religious organizations. Plus, the talk show host included hilarious entertainment by taking calls from people, all around the country, who disagreed with him.

Theo noticed a pattern form. Many people from all around the country clearly despised the talk show host. And most of them could only express their contempt for him with insults and complaints. They refused to believe the words he read, directly from the Bible, were actually words in the Bible. Because, like me, they also hadn’t heard those messages in church. Or from any Christians they knew.

So, Theo tuned in to the show, for months. He couldn’t find any points of contention or disagreement with the talk show host.

And he enjoyed how the host ended his shows with “Do right. And risk the consequences.”

Then, one day, after watching a particularly entertaining episode of the show, Theo’s brain lit up with some lyrics. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention. Theo’s an excellent songwriter. So, he wrote down the words, editing as he wrote (because that’s the best way). And he twiddled around with some chords and progressions as he ironed out the verses and chorus.

I’ll bet you can see why his first line was…

“There’s a blue streak like a paintbrush stroke through my heart.”

Right? You picked up on that whole connection I’ll betcha. And I bet you get this next line, too.

“It’s a cool light and it tears the darkness apart.”

How about it? The lyrics make a lotta sense, since you read a little bit of the backstory. Can I get an Amen? So, any guesses on the next line? Try these next two lines:

“I’m so near it; though it pierces me I don’t fear it.
Like a needle; the Word sews into my spirit.”

I don’t know about you, but that gave me goosebumps. OK, maybe little goslingbumps. But I really enjoy observing a maestro’s mind at work.

Well, I’ve been writing up a blue streak about this story. So, I’m not gonna share the whole rest of the laborious and intense songwriting process with you. But you can rest assured, Theo included the line, “Do right and risk the consequences.”

You know what you should Do Right now?

Go get your own digital download of the Do Right Songbook Journal. And when you get your own copy, you’ll get all the lyrics to ALL the songs. Not just this Do Right song I wrote about.

Plus, there are tons of pages where you can journal, take notes in church, or just doodle if you prefer. AND you can download ALL the songs (at no extra charge) from a secret (not secret) link in the book.

Just go to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and get yours today.

https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rhyme-and-reason-bookshop

Let me know if you have any problems getting the book. I’ll make sure you get it! Till next time…

Stay tuned…

P.S. If you already have your copy of this classic music, refer the link to someone else. Thanks!

Posted on August 18, 2024 by TonyAugust 18, 2024

Mateo walked through the shin-deep snow on that cold February night in 1996. And one thought kept echoing through the dark chambers of his mind, “I can hear my heart, but I just can’t feel my life.”

But he couldn’t figure out what “feel my life” meant.

Because it wasn’t like he had NO feelings. Of course he had feelings. Lots of ’em. Passionately exasperating feelings. But feelings just the same.

And, after another mile, or so, of trudging through the snow, Mateo heard his own voice say, “I can feel you cut, but I just can’t see the knife.”

What?! He nearly slipped and fell as he quickly turned to look behind him. No one there. But why would there be? The voice was clearly his own. After all, he’d lived long enough to recognize the sound of his own voice, thank you very much.

But why would his own voice taunt him with talk about feeling the cut but not seeing the knife? That was serious cloak and dagger stuff right there.

So, he gathered up the small amount of logic his brain could muster in that moment, and he started to pray, “Dear God, would You slip Yourself inside of me, now, and show me what I’m meant to be? My heart feels like a dark, locked box. Would you please use the golden key of your Word to unlock it. And protect me from the wizardry of this dark, fallen world down here?”

And he added,

“Even though, right now, I can’t feel my life, I CAN feel Your love.”

Mateo knew God’s love was real even though he’d never met Him face to face.

Faith.

Yeah, that’s what they call it. So, he thought to himself, “Faith knows that whenever I’m alone, You still fill the empty space. And faith helps me know I never really have to reach for You, Lord. Because You always seem to pull me through. And You do the things that I can’t do. Not even if I wanted to. And not even if I tried.

As those words flooded into his mind, his doubts and worries started to fade away, like the dwindling snowflakes in the frigid, night air.

So, he tapped into the source of his strength. And he sang,

I have to believe You did everything for me.
‘Cause what I have to believe is the truth that sets me free.

Then, he said out loud, “Now, I know why I couldn’t feel my life. Because I forgot my life is not my own. No, God spent more than the whole world could ever repay to buy my life. And I’m sure I don’t deserve it. But, now, I’m lighter than air and soaring like a bird.”

OK, there’s a glimpse into part of one night in the life of Mateo.

By the way, his name means “Gift from God.” And He sprang to life just a few minutes ago when I decided to create his moment of angst to point to the song, “Have To Believe.” It’s the first song in the Do Right collection.

You’ve heard of the Do Right collection, no doubt. Because you’re familiar with how the whole collection is somewhat connected to a local Denver night time talk show host from way back. Right? You know that story. Right?

Well, it doesn’t matter if you do right now. Because right now I’m telling you how to get your own digital download of the Do Right Songbook Journal. And when you get your own copy, you’ll get all the lyrics to all the songs. Plus, there are tons of pages where you can journal, take notes in church, or just doodle if you prefer. AND you can download all the songs (at no extra charge) from a secret link in the book.

Just go to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and get yours today.

https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rhyme-and-reason-bookshop

I’ll wait here and…

Stay tuned…

P.S. If you already have your copy of this classic music, refer the link to someone else. Thanks!

Posted on August 17, 2024 by TonyAugust 22, 2024

Struck out, struck down, and washed up in this town

You’ve heard how there was no joy in Mudville when Mighty Casey struck out. Well, I assume you’ve heard that or read it. And I know what happens when you assume. So, maybe I should have given a spoiler alert. But the poem first appeared back in 1888. So, for cryin’ out loud, if you haven’t read it or heard it by now, then shame on you.

Anyway…

Mighty Casey struck out. But that’s nothing compared to Wyler’s woes.

I know you’ve never heard of Wyler James. And I’ll explain how I know that, shortly. Just know for now, that when it comes to someone who knows what it feels like to be struck out, you don’t have to look any further than Wyler.

He started out on a what looked like a fast track to stardom. Because his first 3 songs were covered by some Nashville names big enough to make him a fair sum of money as it made them a lot more. So, that was mighty cool.

And Wyler gained a considerable amount of recognition from his appearances in the Nashville venues that featured songwriters “in the round.” People just plain liked him. And they liked those first 3 hits, a trio of soulful love songs.

But one gray day Wyler hit two metaphorical, but solid, stone walls that stalled out his career.

First, the music industry moved into a time where his style of soulful love songs just were “not what the public wants to hear,” according to publishers, promoters, and radio execs. So, that was a pretty big slap. Because Wyler wasn’t a “viral hits” and “dance tracks” kind of songwriter they said they needed.

But the other stone wall was where he really got the rug pulled out from under him.

And that wall was Wyler’s worldview.

Yeah, it’s safe to say he didn’t tow the creative community’s party line. Because Wyler not only considered himself a Christian AND a conservative. He actually voiced his opinion. A lot.

GASP!

Can you imagine? (Yeah, you probably can, right?)

So…

Former so-called “friends” faded into the background. Or should I say into the woodwork? And publishers, and other songwriters, treated him as persona non grata (that’s Italian for persona non grata). And I can tell you, from experience, a persona with non grata has a much harder time paying the bills.

So, Wyler’s desk filled up with past-due bills. And he headed toward total bankruptcy. Because the memories of the days of radio hits, sold-out shows, and awards motivated him to stick with his true love. Music.

And, in a world that increasingly doesn’t appreciate the Christian worldview, Wyler seemed to face impossible odds.

But he wasn’t the kind of guy who bet the odds.

And night after night he’d go to his guitar, strum and hum, and look for “that song.” The one his heart wanted to sing to (and FOR) everyone who faced seemingly impossible odds because they dared to speak their Christian faith.

Finally, one night he found some chords and strums that fit just right with 4 lines of lyrics that kept popping into his brain. And he wrote…

You say you’re feeling empty and it doesn’t go away.
And you live for your tomorrow and suffer in today.
You need to blow your trumpet to tear down all the walls
And keep your heart wide open to hear God when He calls.

Suddenly Wyler felt revived.

And it was as if his soul filled up with renewed hope, love, and determination. Then, he set up his computer studio, positioned his mic, and recorded the whole song in only a couple of takes.

He listened to the finished song about 10 times. And every time he heard it, he liked it more. Then, he got this crazy idea that he’d just skip the Nashville publishing, promoting scene. He’d just put his song directly in front of the fans he still had on his social media pages.

As it turned out, there were still plenty of fans and followers who loved his music. And many of them shared his new song. Before he would have ever dreamed it could happen, the song became one of those viral hits. Yeah. And that’s in spite of it not being a dance track.

Go figure.

I won’t bore you with the rest of the details of what happened after that. Because here’s the part of the story where I share with you how I know you never heard of Wyler James.

You never heard of him because he didn’t exist before I wrote this story. But the lines to his song existed. Because I wrote them way back in the 90’s. And the song, Impossible Odds, was included on my Do Right CD. Yes, CD.

Now, you can get a digital download of the Do Right Songbook Journal in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop. We just added it to the digital bookshelves today. You’ll get the lyrics to all the songs, lots of pages to journal or doodle on, and a link to download all the songs to your favorite device, included at zero dinero. Don’t be struck out watching that offer pass you by.

But if you don’t know me well enough to spend money on a book, then jump on the The TRUTH. Get to know me better. Just so you know, Wyler’s worldview is mine, too.

Join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 16, 2024 by TonyDecember 1, 2024

Typhoon Tycoon whose feeling were strewn

So you see the title, Typhoon Tycoon, and you think to yourself, “Self. That’s obviously the most important thing I’ve got to read today. So, read it NOW!”

Am I right? Yes?

I knew it. Because who wouldn’t wanna know more about such an odd topic?

But now that you’re here I gotta tell ya. It was a ruse. A ploy. A diversion to make you look at my left hand while my right hand performed the magic. And that’s the key today.

To get you to look somewhere else. And change up your routine to add more love and care. For yourself. And for your neighbor. Here’s my recommendation.

As you go through your day today, as you check your texts, instant messages, social media accounts, YouTube and Instagram videos, and even your eCommerce stats, take a pause.

Look up. Look around. Pay attention to the ones you love. And talk to them. Embrace. Laugh. Enjoy the time. They won’t be here forever. And you won’t either. But you’ll all be somewhere forever. So, talk about that. And be sure where you’re going. Because it matters more than any other message you’ll receive from any other source.

Are you good to go? Then, I’ll tell you…

The Tale of the Typhoon Tycoon

Lorenzo Lanune, the Tycoon,
Stored his gold inside a typhoon.
Though most thought he must be a loon,
He trusted his moolah monsoon.
Each day he’d compose a new tune.
At night, on his contrabassoon,
He’d play, by the light of the moon,
And birds from Kowloon to Rangoon
Flocked to trees to listen and croon.

And every third week the tycoon
Put more gold inside his typhoon.
And it turned into a balloon
That looked like a golden doubloon.
Then, one day, exactly at noon,
In the month there’d be a blue moon,
He sailed away from his lagoon,
On the wild winds of his typhoon,
Like the famous fork and the spoon.

See, Lorenzo was not immune
To the words in a local tune
Where they called him a picaroon.
It’s not likely he’ll return soon.
The lyrics were like a harpoon
Intended to lightly lampoon.
So Lorenzo left a festoon
On the statue of John Calhoun,
And he turned into a cartoon.

Before you go, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 15, 2024 by TonyDecember 1, 2024

OK kiddos from 3 to 103. I’ll just let you know, right up front, that I’m here for you. Because I know that you fit into one of these categories. You are the:

Cream of the crop
Top of the heap
Bee’s knees
Cat’s meow
Best thing since sliced bread

And maybe you’ve even come up with something else you think describes your effervescent and irresistible personality. If so, good for you. Or is it, good ON you these days? No matter.

You know what you are. We’ll leave it at that. Just know I’m here for you.

And I bet just knowing that relaxes you to your very soul. Right? Yeah, because until I popped into your email inbox, you were fretting about something. And you know what they say about fretting, don’t you? Well, I don’t know what they say. But I’m sure it isn’t complimentary or reassuring.

Anyway…

Back to why and how I’m here for you.

I’m here for you because you need a break from the negativity, vulgarity, and instability of the news and the “newsmakers.” And you need a reason to smile, forget about who said what about whom, and just remember that God is gonna make everything beautiful, bright, and completely right again one fine day.

I had some special words I wanted to share with you about that. But I seem to have misplaced them. I’ve searched under my computer. Down the side of my desk. And even under my cap. But the words appear to have vanished into thin air (because nothing vanishes into thick air).

Well, there’s my quandary. My dilemma, plight, and predicament.

So, I scratch my head and ask:

Did I put the words in a bag
With a tag that looks like a flag?
Did I stick the words in a shoe
Painted blue to make it look new?
Did I hide the words in a drum
Which, to some, could make me look dumb?
Did I let the words out the door
Where they’ll soar and come back no more?
Did I leave the words in my head
To be read by no one instead?
Nope, I found the words in my eyes,
So surprise! They’re here for you guys.

As always, thanks for joining me on another ride on the rails of Rhyme and Reason.

Before you go, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 14, 2024 by TonyDecember 1, 2024

Young doctors of fame can't outdo this name

Once upon an old West morning, in the little town of Glenwood Springs, the scent of freshly baked bread and coffee wafted through the air. And it woke up one of the most famous young doctors ever.

He got up, walked to the window, opened the curtain, and sunshine flooded the room like liquid gold. And, from downstairs he heard a voice yell out..

“Good morning, birthday boy! Rise and shine. Coffee’s in the cup. Time to get up!”

So, he got dressed, splashed some water on his face, and drifted down the stairs. And as he turned the corner into the kitchen, his wife, Kate, slipped a blindfold over his eyes from behind.

Naturally, he was taken by surprise. But he played along. “What in the world?! Who is this? And what’s the big idea?” he asked.

“Young doctors need plenty of fresh air and sunshine,” was the reply.

And with that answer, he heard the screen door squeak as Kate led him out the back door. She led him slowly down the 7 steps into the back yard. They walked a few steps through the cool, soft grass. And she sat him down at their backyard picnic table.

“Ok,” he said. “So, we’re having breakfast in the back yard. Great. ‘Cause I’m hungry.”

“That IS good,” Kate answered. “You better be hungry. Because here’s a mighty big breakfast!”

And, as she said the word, breakfast, she removed the blindfold. And all around them, gathered in the big back yard, was just about the entire town of Glenwood Springs. But how they had managed to stay so quiet is anybody’s guess. Because there were kids holding balloons, adults holding coffee cups and plates and forks, and a big, waving banner that read, “Happy Birthday, Doc!”

It was almost as if removing the blindfold flipped the switch on to a big celebration. The kids started playing, the adults started eating and drinking, and the breezes snapped the banner back and forth.

Then, Mayor Silverton stepped forward and handed Doc a beautifully carved wooden box.

“This is for you, Doc. From all of us,” he said warmly.

So, Doc opened the box and found a gold pocket watch. It was artistically engraved with the words…

“To our Hero and Friend. Happy Birthday.”

Doc was overwhelmed by that outpouring of love. And, at first, he didn’t know what to say.

But he held the watch close. And thought about for a minute or so. Then he somehow managed to say, “I’ve faced many challenges in my life, but nothing has touched me as deeply as this. Thank you all.”

As the day turned to dusk and the sky turned dark blue,
Under twinkling stars, and as if right on cue,
Everyone sang out loud, “Happy, happy birthday!”
What a way to show love for their Doc Holliday.

And that’s exactly the way it was on that special birthday for one of the most famous young doctors ever. Doc Holliday, who’d be 173 today. Because he was born August 14, 1851.

(FYI: it’s not really the way it was. But it might have been if he had made some different choices.)

Anyway…

Before you go, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 13, 2024 by TonyAugust 18, 2024

The goal, the prize, and where to point your eyes

Kris and Themum woke up to a thunderstorm filled with bright flashes of lightning. Thank goodness they had taken extra time to secure their tents and position them for protection. Because the thunderstorm turned into what Uncle Paulo would describe as “a real frog drowner.” But they weren’t gonna let a little rain put a damper on reaching the goal for the day.

Because the goal for the day was the ultimate hiker’s prize.

The summit. The peak. A couple more vertical miles, and they’d see the tip-top of the goal they’d talked about for a long time. And they both thought about that as they fired up the little backpack grill to make breakfast and coffee.

Neither one said anything. Kris had pointed out, before they even started their climb, that he wasn’t a morning talker. And Themum said he just wasn’t a morning person, period. So, that worked out. Even though it sounds funny to say it, they could just enjoy the mountain sounds in silence.

After breakfast, and a jolt of adrenaline thanks to their Italian roast coffee, the guys gathered up their gear to get ready to press on.

And as most climbers (the honest ones at least) might tell you, they didn’t even fully understand WHY they pressed on. Because the thin air increased the challenge with each step up in elevation. So, it wasn’t like it was just a walk in the park.

But when set a goal, you gotta keep your eyes on the goal.

Otherwise your mind, and aching muscles, can conjure up all kinds of reasons to turn back. And Kris and Themum certainly faced those distractions way up there above the tree line. But the awesome beauty of the summit, bathed in the orange-red-yellow glow of the morning sun, urged them forward.

After a few more switchbacks, the trail turned considerably narrower. And rockier.

As they approached a sharp turn, next to a wind-worn tree trunk, Themum felt a pebble in his hiking boot. So, he stopped to lean on the tree trunk for support and remove it. But just as he started to lift his foot to unlace the boot his other foot twisted slightly on another rock. And his hand slipped off the tree trunk. And he tumbled off the edge of the trail.

Kris had just made the sharp turn when he looked back to see Themum disappear over the edge. And, as you can well imagine, he dashed back down the trail to where his friend had fallen out of sight. He was afraid of what he might find. Or not find. But he quickly calmed that fear with faith.

“Themum!” he called out.

And thankfully Themum replied, “I’m right down here. Good thing there was a shrub to break my fall. But it’s pretty small. And I don’t know if it can hold me for long.”

So, Kris answered back, “OK, don’t worry. I’ll help you get back up here.”

And with that promise, Kris quickly looked around for something to hand down to his friend. There wasn’t much to choose from. But he DID find one solid limb, about 4 feet long, that looked like it had fallen off that wind-worn tree.

Then, he carefully approached the edge of the trail again.

“Ok, buddy. I’m gonna hand you a branch to grab on to. Can you do that without falling?” he asked.

Themum answered, “Yeah, I think so. But I think we’d better hurry. The roots of this shrub seem to be shifting around a little bit.”

So, Kris grabbed on to another shrub with his left hand and lowered the branch down to his friend. And it was a good thing the branch was about 4 feet long. Because they needed every inch of it.

“Now, we’ve gotta sync up just right, buddy,” Kris told Themum. “When I pull, you gotta get the best footing you can and push at the same time. Are you ready?”

Themum dug his right hiking boot into the ground and answered, “Ready!”

“OK,” said Kris. We’re one unit. One force. Keep your eyes up here. On three. One! Two!”

And they both grunted out, “THREE!”

Kris pulled the limb. Themum pushed into the ground and reached up to grab another root. And they repeated those moves a few more times till Themum was safely back on the trail. They both laid there in the warm sunlight, breathing deeply, and saying silent prayers of thanks. Because they had combined their efforts into one force, they got the job done right.

In case you’re wondering, yes, they DID go on to the summit. And they enjoyed reaching the goal they had weeks before. There were selfies. And pats on each other’s backs. Plus, they had a nail-biting adventure story they could share with their kids and grandkids.

Aren’t you glad you don’t have to rescue anybody off a mountainside today? And aren’t you glad you can just share stories with kids and grandkids the easy way? Just by going to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop.

Yeah, do that today. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

I can see a dip in the mountainside
Where the wind shakes the pines like a rattle,
But no matter where I roam or ride
I dream best in the cool windy saddle.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 12, 2024 by TonyAugust 12, 2024

Solid friendship, northern lights, land of wonder and delights

Finnar and Sami were what you might call “fast friends.” Well, I certainly would anyway. Because that’s an old and established way to describe a solid friendship built on mutual trust.

And only a solid friendship could have done what they did.

Keep in mind, now, every word you’re about to read is based on hand-me-down information. So, you know what that means. Yep. Rock-solid data with no room for mistakes.

OK, imagine, if you will (and you will because you can) ships full of Vikings. Can you see them? Good. Now, imagine the bluest, greenest, coolest, cleanest lights in the world. The Aurora Borealis. Yes, there you go. See ’em flicker and dance in the North sky? Like the light of God’s love.

Finnar and Sami saw those same lights, as they jumped onto the shore of Finnmork. And they were instantly hypnotized. And I mean actually hypnotized. Neither one of them could move a muscle. And none of their shipmates could even move them. In fact, the only parts that moved, on Finnar and Sami, were their eyes.

And their eyes followed each flickering dance of the lights of the Aurora Borealis. Sort of like the pendulum of a grandfather clock.

Only quicker.

Alright, here’s where the story gets a little blurry. Because some say Finnar and Sami never moved again. And they say the two of them eventually petrified into stony statues. But others tell another tale. And I tend to believe those others because they’re the older, wiser ones. THEY say Finnar and Sami were rescued by Angels of Light.

Apparently, the Angels of Light flew down and hovered just in front of Finnar and Sami’s faces and gently placed their hands over their eyes. And, as fate (or something even better) would have it, Finnar and Sami were immediately released from their hypnotic trance.

And, at the exact time, the Angels of Light disappeared.

The rest of the crew, and the crowd from town, cheered. And the two men were totally surprised by that reaction. Because they didn’t even realize they had been hypnotized.

I’m telling you, it was the craziest thing. Sadly, no one thought to record any of it on their phones or tablets. But don’t think too badly of them. Because those devices weren’t invented yet.

But that story was passed down for generations.

And everyone kept their own version of the story in their own hearts. That way they could explain to kids and grandkids how their beautiful homeland was named.

And, to this day, Finland is a place of beauty and wonder. With a positive reputation. The Northern Lights shine as brightly there as they ever did. In fact, if you get a chance to visit, be careful not to stare into them. You don’t want to end up like Finnar and Sami. Unless you enjoy a solid friendship with someone who’ll help you get free.

I’m just kiddin’. If you ever go there, stare as long as you like. And you could even enjoy some wonderful conversations, rhymes, and reasons, in the background, as you do. Because I received a very interesting email about your ol’ buddy, Tony. It said:

“I have some cool information that might interest you. Your podcast Rhyme and Reason with Tony Funderburk has good performance in Apple Podcasts rankings (last 30 days):

Position 68 in the category Christianity (Finland)
Position 164 in the category Religion & Spirituality (Finland)”

That was from a podcast monitoring service. And they send out notices when your podcast does well. So, who would’ve guessed. My Rhyme and Reason is enjoyed in the land of Finnar and Sami.

It all reminds me of a rhyme I wrote to go with a beautiful picture of the Northern Lights.

When Angels Sing

When angels sing from Finland skies,
Aurora Borealis eyes
Perceive a glass kaleidoscope
Of crystal lights lit up by Hope.
The angels send a message through
The frozen night of opaque blue
And bid the world to come behold
This place of peace, this crown of gold.
So, if you hear a rustling wing,
Be set to go when angels sing. © 2022

As you call it a day, today, be sure to thank the good Lord for angels, beautiful lights and colors, and most of all for Faith, Hope, and Love.

Then, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 11, 2024 by TonyAugust 11, 2024

Nothing more to say, so goodbye yesterday

It probably wasn’t on your radar. Nope. You probably weren’t wondering about my process for stringing words together to create the rhymes and reasons I share with you. So, when I say I started a 3-verse rhyme with the phrase “nothing more to say,” you roll your eyes. Or yawn. Or both.

But this morning I wondered, “What if there was nothing more to say?”

So, I did what I usually do when I wonder. I wrote it down. Typed it, to be completely accurate. Because I type 99% of what I write these days. And that’s because the vast majority of what I write has to end up on a digital page when it’s all said and done. So, why physically write it down when I’ll just have to type it down?

Anyway…

Let’s get back off that little rabbit trail.

Sometimes all I have to do to get started, on my blank page/screen, is write down that certain phrase or word. Then, it’s kinda like seeing it pulls the trigger to that rhyming section of my brain. Suddenly other words pop in to form the first thoughts. And then I can make sense of what the first line should be.

Once I have the first line, the second tends to slide in pretty quickly. And after a couple of lines I start to see where I need to go with the rhymes.

Yeah, that’s what happened in the wee hours this morning. And since this morning is a Sunday morning, it only seems reasonable that this rhyme for the day would point to the one, true, living, loving God. The One who spoke things into existence and created the seven days the whole world understands. So, here you go…

Nothing More To Say

As for yesterday, there’s nothing more to say,
Except what I will say, today.
I know there’s no way to change one yesterday,
So, I’m glad that I know The Way.

The Truth, The Life, in me, the One who made me free,
Has made sure I can see that He
Put eternity inside the heart of me,
And so I’ll be, eternally.

Glad for what’s ahead, because of what I’ve read
In God’s book where He clearly said
His son bore and bled and came back from the dead.
So hope replaces dread ahead. © 2024

Just so you know, I’ve got lots more to say. And as long as I remain on planet Earth, with the ability to type, or even speak, words onto a digital page, I’ll share why the world needs Jesus.

If you haven’t already, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 10, 2024 by TonyAugust 10, 2024

A little night music, please, with familiar melodies

“Maestro, a little night music, please.”

And with that one command/request, the young songwriter retreated to his chamber to compose himself. Oh yeah, and also to compose the music.

By some accounts it was a warm summer night in Vienna. And as Wolfie sat at his desk he could hear people enjoying themselves in the streets below the window of his room. But somehow he managed to tune them out and tune into his own thoughts and imagination.

The command had been for “a little night music.”

But he was too awake to compose a simple lullaby. And certainly not on demand. The revelry outside and the flickering of the candle shadows on the wall was just too much movement to be ignored.

So, sure enough, Wolfie quickly dipped his quill into the inkwell. And just as quickly, he started to dash out a flurry of eighth, sixteenth, and even thirty-second notes. He could hear the violins in his head. Smooth. And agile on the scale. With important things to say. So, naturally he wrote them a captivating conversation.

And even the sound of quill on the parchment inspired him to fill the page with that collection of notes he not only heard, but also saw in his head. In fact, he started to feel as though the notes wrote themselves. As if he was just a conduit. The method for how the ink made it from the well to the page.

Then, as Wolfie approached the second movement, a gentle Romanze, he decided to capture the quiet intimacy of a moonlit garden. A place where lovers wandered. And where sometimes cads and rogues whispered sweet nothings into the accommodating ears of young maidens.

Then, he composed the Menuetto.

It was inspired by the spirited dances he had seen at court. And he made sure to give it an elegant appeal.

Ironically, Wolfie completed the night music, at the break of dawn, with what’s known as his jubilant Rondo. And since his home was in Prague (and because of the command he’d received) he called his new composition “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.”

And that all happened on this day, August 10, back in 1787. Of course, you no doubt already realize that Wolfie is Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Just so you know, this is my own fictional account. But I feel certain it all happened exactly the way I described. Because of the songwriter’s connection code. I don’t wanna bore you with how it works. Just know it works. And it’s probably divinely decreed. So, there’s nothing anyone can do to change it.

Anyway…

You know who’d love a little night music? Kids. And/or grandkids. No, they absolutely don’t know that they’d love it. And maybe you don’t even know it either. So, take my word for it. They’ll LUV it. Especially if you play it in the background as they read (or you read to them) the Ginormous Humongous Tremendous Book of Rhymes And Bedtime Stories for Kids. Get yours in the https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rhyme-and-reason-bookshop

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 9, 2024 by TonyAugust 9, 2024

Write bright or write right? It's right to write bright.

Oliver Treze was born to write bright. And that was his answer when anyone asked what he did for a living. He’d smile a quarter smile and reply, “I write bright.”

So, every morning, he sat in the shade of olive trees to write bright words.

Words to wake the whimsy. Words to wake the joy.
All for flights of fancy. Words he could employ
To work his own magic, filled with opal light.
Nothing dark and tragic. No, he must write bright!

Maybe you noticed a kohwinkydink already. Did you catch it? Here’s a hint.

When Oliver Treze did his bright writing, he sat in the shade of olive trees.

Get it? Oliver Treze under the olive trees.

Yeah, ain’t it grand how kohwinkydinks pop up a lot of times when you least expect them? And ain’t it grand when they can give you a sort of magical aura brain massage? Yeah, those things are grand. Too bad most adults don’t even pick up on ’em.

Because if they could tune in to kohwinkydinks and dilly dally for even a few minutes, they might get to enjoy a whole ‘nother world. And I’m talkin’ about a world where trees talk to the stars. And where daydreams play Red Rover with Night Dreams.

But Oliver Treze never worried about what adults might or might not see.

Because he had millions of ideas swirling around in his head. And he knew if he worried about what anybody could or couldn’t see, that took away from bright writing time.

And that was time he was NOT willing to waste.

So, Oliver wrote. And wrote. And sometimes he’d stop to eat or sleep. But after that he wrote some more. And anyone who walked by would never imagine all the wondrous words that flowed out of his head into his pen. Or sometimes he’d take his trusty techie tablet and type a tapestry or two or three. Or thirty-three.

That’s how it was when, in one day, he wrote about two hundred pages. It was a ginormous, humongous, tremendous amount of poems. I happened to be sitting nearby just as he finished for the day. And the oddest thing happened. Oliver started to fade away.

I started to ask if there was something I could do to help. But he held up his hand to motion for me to come closer. So, I did.

And in a faint voice he said,

“I had to write bright.
But I wrote out my own light.
So, I know it’s right
That you take these words tonight.
Add them to the book
That I have here. Take a look.
Turn it into fun.
Do this for me. I…am…done.”

And, with those last three words, he faded away completely. With a quarter smile on his face.

So, I looked down at the last bright writing he did. And here’s what I saw…

Woods Of Wonder

Walking in the woods of wonder…
Leaping off a limb of lights…
Slipping down a secret Scots pine…
Kiwi trees are flying kites.
All around are dancing Aspens…
With their white and wondrous wings…
Bristling branches and sweet breezes…
Where a speckled sparrow sings.

There’s more to the poem. But to see Oliver’s very last lines, you’ll need to beam over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and get your own downloadable copy of:

Ginormous Humongous Tremendous Book of Poems and Bedtime Stories for Kids

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 8, 2024 by TonyAugust 8, 2024

Drawing and coloring art into the digital part

Theo loved drawing and coloring from the moment he could hold a crayon. And his bedroom walls were papered with creations straight out of his wild imagination. Just about every other day he’d ask his mom or dad to get him some more drawing paper, crayons, and pencils.

His parents chose to encourage his drawing and coloring.

So, more often than not, they’d be sure to provide Theo with his supplies. After all, since it obviously wasn’t a passing phase, they knew the supplies could help train him up in the way he should go. Of course, they knew they’d have to show Theo how to stay within a budget and make his supplies last. Thankfully he understood that his mom and dad loved him. So, he never whined when they had to say no. Which wasn’t often.

Early one sunny Saturday morning, Theo showed his latest art to his tech-savvy older sister, Lena.

“Hey, Lena. Check it out. What do you think of my drawing of this city built into a mountain side? Pretty cool, huh?” And he handed her the paper. Lena look up from her iPad and sort of nodded, “Uh-huh.”

“You didn’t even really look. C’mon. I’d like to know what you think,” Theo pleaded.

So, Lena knew that tone in his voice. And she knew he wouldn’t let up until she really looked at his drawing.

“OK, give it here,” she said.

And she saw it was really good. She liked it. Yeah, Theo was most definitely good at drawing and coloring.

But then, Lena had an idea.

“Hey, you know what? You should try something really different. And I think you’ll like it a lot. Wanna know what it is?”

“Uh, yeah. I guess so. What is it?” Theo asked.

And Lena showed him a drawing and coloring app on her iPad.

“Oh, yuck,” he said. “I don’t wanna draw on some slick screen with a fake pencil.”

But Lena showed him a screen cover she used when she took notes for school. And it made the slick surface of the iPad screen feel more like paper.

“Here. Feel it,” she insisted.

At first, Theo thought it just felt weird. Not at all like the texture of his sketch paper. But then Lena handed him her digital pencil and let him try it out. After just a few stroked he started to get the hang of it. Then Lena showed him how he could work with layers, tons of digital brushes, and colors that never ran out.

Theo was hooked.

So, I’m sure you can guess what he asked his parents for next. Right? Yep. His own iPad. But they worked out a deal with him to be sure he eventually paid for it himself. That way he’d appreciate the value of ownership.

Once he got his hands on his own iPad, it almost became a part of him. Everywhere he went, the tablet was always with him. Because he didn’t want anything to stop him from drawing and coloring at a moment’s notice.

Then, Lena showed Theo where he could watch online lessons. And where he could learn even way more about the world of digital art. He soaked it up. And little by little he figured out more and more of the almost unlimited possibilities of creating art on a tablet. He loved how he could wipe out mistakes with a tap, blend colors and undo them if they weren’t right, and experiment without ever running out of paper.

And, sure, I could tell you more about the story of Theo and his digital art. But I’m sure you’d like to work on your own. Or, if you’re the parent or grandparent of kids like Theo, you’d like to be encouraging like his parents.

So, start ’em off right.

With a big bang at the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop. And I’ll let you in a little secret. I just added a book so big, so full of pages for drawing and coloring, that you’d have to spend a bunch of dough to get in a paperback. But if you’ve got access to an iPad, boy oh boy can you save a TON!

Go to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and look for the book with the long title and lots of colorful pictures. Click on that picture and you can download over 200 pages of drawing and coloring and rhymes. And forget about paying those crazy prices on that site named after a Brazilian river.

Stick with me and we’ll enjoy the pure river of water of Life.

Stay tuned,

Posted on August 7, 2024 by TonyAugust 7, 2024

If you’ve never met the Icle family, you’e certainly missed out on a special treat. First, there’s Grandpa Icle. But most people know him as Pops. Then there’s Uncle Bice Icle. And cousin Trice Icle. Then, there’s King Lear Icle. At least that’s what the rest of the family call Leero. Because he walks around the house quoting Shakespeare at the oddest times. But my favorite of them all is Auntie Whims Icle. I absolutely LUV her whimsical art. And she paints something new literally every day.

And her whimsical art flies from her whimsical heart.

That’s just the who she is.

For example, you notice I said her whimsical art “flies” from her heart. Right? Well, most people would probably say it flows from her heart. But Auntie Whims Icle would just say, “That’s not how I’m made.”

And I remember, on more than one occasion, how she’d say she could no more hold her paintings inside her than you and I could defy gravity. She’d say her art flew out of her heart, into the paint, swirled around, leaped onto her brush, and lifted her hand to the canvas. And she became its willing accomplice to the process.

Yeah, I found myself thinking about the Icle family this morning. And I wasn’t quite sure why. Then, I realized it’s Wednesday. And you know what Wednesday is. No, silly, not the dreadful “hump day.” It’s Whimsical.

So, naturally I thought about the poem, Whimsical Wednesday, I wrote a few years ago. And I thought about how it’s included in a jam-packed book of rhymes and stories. Here’s a sample:

Whimsical Wednesday tickles the tongue,
Lilting and loving, keeping us young.

Now, don’t be a negative Nancy Not Icle. Just jump on over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and watch for the release of the “Ginormous Humongous Tremendous Book of Poems and Short Bedtime Stories for Kids.” It’s enormous I tell ya. With tons of words and whimsical art. And tons of space for drawing.

And, for the first time, it’ll be a much more affordable downloadable book. You should see what the physical book costs on Amazon. Yikes! On second thought, no you shouldn’t. So, don’t go to this LINK. Instead, go to the following link and download a copy in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop ASAP. (that means right away)

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 6, 2024 by TonyAugust 6, 2024

Milky Way Galaxy in a place you'll never see.

Elara lived in the star-island village of Millezza (pronounced milletsa, with the accent on the et). I’m sure you never heard of her or her hometown. Because they’re located at the Northwest corner of the Milky Way Galaxy.

Of course, I know you’ve heard of the Milky Way Galaxy.

After all, anyone who lives on planet Earth knows our entire solar system is contained within the Milky Way Galaxy.

I’m just sayin’ you never heard of Elara or Milletsa. Let’s leave it at that. Yeesh.

Anyway…

Elara had a passion for bouquets. But her bouquets were made of the stardust she gathered during her walks through the Millezza Meadows. After she collected her celestial clippings, she’d take them back to her stardust studio to arrange them.

Every little speck shined and shimmered beyond imagination. And far beyond the color spectrum you and I can see. But, to Elara, it was all quite normal. She had been creating her bouquets for thousands of years.

So, it was all in a day’s work.

And, on one of those days, a space traveler, named Evan, landed in Millezza Meadows just as Elara was about to head home with her daily finds. You and I might think that was mighty strange. But Elara had entertained other travelers before. So, she had sort of come to expect visitors once in a while.

As it turned out, Evan was a writer. And he fancied himself to be a musician, too. And he loved to travel through the Milky Way Galaxy writing songs and stories about the stars and the heavens.

Elara invited him to join her for dinner. And without hesitation he simply said, “Excellent.”

That evening, when he arrived at her bungalow, Evan was delighted to see the wide variety of bouquets in lead glass crystal vases. One glowed a deep indigo blossom from within and its edges were dusted with silver like iridescent stardust. Another one shined like a deep, rich violet neon sign. It had tiny threads of luminous gold weaving all around. And it reminded him of a cosmic dawn he had passed through on his travels.

But one stood out from the rest.

Not because of bright colors. In fact, maybe it stood out so much because of the absence of bright colors. And Evan couldn’t take his eyes off it. It drew him in like a cosmic funnel of enigmatic joy. Translucent shards of white light floated, counterclockwise above the crystal vase. But an unseen force held them in their orbits.

Evan felt the irresistible urge to reach out and touch the lights. And as he did, the tiny shards danced across his fingers and around his hand. And they glowed even brighter and lit up his face in full spectrum light.

Elara could see the bouquet’s effect on Evan. So, she told him how the stardust in that arrangement came from the purest and most distant reaches of the Milky Way Galaxy. And she explained how the shards of light had the power to fill creative, inquisitive minds with knowledge and wisdom and stories. It was almost as if they tapped into the mind of the Creator of the cosmos. And she told Evan she believed they actually did.

Then, much to his surprise, she gave him the bouquet.

And once again, without hesitation, Evan simply said, “Excellent!”

Elara carefully packed the Milky Way Bouquet into a box made of Millezza Meadows mahogany. And Evan put it carefully on board his ship. He understood that he had found something and someone as bold and boundless as the heavens he loved so much.

She understood how much she was giving away.

And they both understood how the gift would be a bridge between their hearts and minds.

Now you know the story behind the tenth song on the Lullabye Bye collection of lullaby songs for kids. And every word of it is as true as your best mid-winter dream.

By the way, you can hear a sample of “Milky Way Bouquet,” as well as all the other songs in the Lullabye Bye collection, here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV4pKjLJWgg)

Then, don’t stop to pick any bouquets. Just jump on over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop to get your special kids their very own Lullabye Bye coloring, drawing songbook. And I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again. There’s a link, in the book, to download all the songs?

So, download your Lullabye Bye book in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop right now.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 5, 2024 by TonyAugust 17, 2024

Mystical phenomenon, in this song, goes on and on

OK, you’ll enjoy this story much more if you use your best Irish or Scottish accent as you read. Even if you read it to yourself and you don’t read it out loud. You’re already doin’ it. Aren’t ya? Yeah, the way that power of suggestion works is a mystical phenomenon.

And speakin’ of a mystical phenomenon.

Have you ever heard of the Blue Celtic Cloud?

Some say it’s not just a vapor. Not just part of the sky. And some will swear the Blue Celtic Cloud is even more than just a mystical phenomenon. They’ll swear it’s a living, shimmering “entity” that floats above the verdant highlands and rugged coastlines of Eire.

In fact, I heard a story about it. And I’ll share the story with you now. Word for word.

(by the way, your accent is delightful)

Anyway…

Rhiannon, a young druidess, was the guardian of the aforementioned Blue Celtic Cloud. She had inherited this sacred duty from her grandmother, Maeve. And Maeve had whispered tales of the cloud’s power into Rhiannon’s ears ever since she was a child.

Maeve told her the Blue Celtic Cloud was no ordinary puff of vapor. Not at all. Because it contained the dreams and hopes of the Celtic people. And it could transform those dreams and hopes into healing rain to nourish the earth and all who with open hearts to music.

And one crisp morning, during the last few days of Spring, as a mist kissed the heather-covered hills, Rhiannon felt a drop of water on her forehead. The Blue Celtic Cloud was swirling with a luminous energy. Even as the rest of the world was quiet and still.

Emerald greens, rich purples, and sunlit golds shined from within.

So, Rhiannon chanted ancient incantations she learned from her grandmother. And the Blue Celtic Cloud descended and surrounded her in a soft, glowing mist.

A gentle rain began to fall. But the strange thing about it was that Rhiannon didn’t get wet. Because the rain fell directly into her heart. Or at least it felt that way. And she could also feel the dreams and hopes of the Celtic people as beautiful music also found its way to her heart. And, without even realizing it, the song made her smile.

It sure was a whimsical, wonderful mystical phenomenon. But sadly, Rhiannon had no one to share the song with. So, she sang it to the Blue Celtic Cloud. And she asked the Cloud to send it to someone, someday, some way, who could and would pass it on to others.

And the Blue Celtic Cloud promised to do just as she asked.

Finally, hundreds of years later, the Cloud found an unsuspecting, but willing, songwriter to write down the words and compose the song.

And that’s how the ninth song on my Lullabye Bye collection of lullaby songs for kids came about. Cross my heart and hope to fly.

Listen to a sample of “Blue Celtic Cloud,” as well as all the other songs in the Lullabye Bye collection here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV4pKjLJWgg)

And it shouldn’t take a mystical phenomenon for you to jump on over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop to get your special kids their very own Lullabye Bye coloring, drawing songbook. And did I mention, there’s a link, in the book, to download all the songs?

Well, there is. So, download your Lullabye Bye book in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop right now.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 4, 2024 by TonyAugust 4, 2024

Amelia sat by the window. And the soft glow of the evening sunset shined warm shades of orange and yellow across the nursery. As twilight settled on the crib, she hoped tonight would be different. Because her baby, Lily, had struggled with sleep for a week.

But Amelia decided to try something new. She she gathered her ukulele, her songbook journal, her favorite pen, and her favorite chair into her favorite corner of her favorite room.

And in that soft glow of the evening sunset she wrote a lullaby.

And she started out by softly humming to herself until she found a melody that felt good. And she knew she had to keep it simple so Lily could easily recognize it each night. Naturally the song had to be personal. So, she thought about their times together.

Amelia’s love for minor keys took her to the first and second lines of the lullaby. As she pictured herself holding Lily next to her heart, she wrote:

“Yes, my love, I DO adore you.
Hear my heart. It’s beating for you.”

Then, she thought about how those special one-on-one moments would only go on forever in her own mind. Lily wouldn’t remember them. But SHE would. So, she wrote:

“Private memories we will keep.
But, for now, fall fast asleep.”

Next, Amelia wanted words to help Lily feel safe and loved. So, she wrote the next 4 lines:

Leave the world and cares behind you.
I’ll make sure they cannot find you.
You’ll be safe in slumber deep…
So for now…fall fast asleep.

Two verses were done.

And, almost like a gift from God, the chorus flowed right out of her.

Amelia added one more verse. Then, she rehearsed the whole lullaby a few times so she could tweak the words and melody until it felt just right.

And, as she gently rocked Lily to sleep, in what was left of the evening sunset, she sang the new lullaby. Lily’s little mouth opened into a cute yawn, and her little blue eyes hid behind her eyelids closed. And Amelia felt a more peaceful connection to her baby than she’d ever felt before.

So, as you might imagine, that new lullaby became their nightly ritual. And the one special song to help Lily Fall Fast Asleep into sweet dreams.

OK. Just so you know, I’m actually the one who wrote the song “Fall Fast Asleep.” There might be a mom named Amelia who wrote a lullaby for her daughter, Lily. But any relation or similarities to them, found in this story, are purely coincidental.

Listen to a sample of “Fall Fast Asleep,” as well as all the other songs in the Lullabye Bye collection here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV4pKjLJWgg)

Then, before you fall asleep, jump on over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop to get your special kids their very own Lullabye Bye coloring, drawing songbook. By the way, you’ll find a link, in the book, to download all the songs. AND they’re included in the cost of the book. For absolutely no dinero, yen, rubles, dolares, or any other kinds of moolah.

Download your Lullabye Bye book in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop right now.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 3, 2024 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

Drifting off to sleep till the jerks start to creep

What’s with all these hypnic jerks who bug you just when you’re drifting off to sleep. How incredibly rude! And embarrassing. Sort of. Maybe it’s just me.

Have you ever had to deal with ’em as you’re drifting off to sleep?

I mean, can’t they get your attention before that point? Because that’s the part of sleep that puts the La La in La La Land. That moment you relax and start drifting…off…to…slee

Where was I?!

Oh yeah. Those hypnic jerks. Turns out that’s the name somebody gave to those twitches or sudden jerks that happen right when you’re drifting off to sleep. I experience them once in a while. Thankfully I haven’t had to deal with one in public.

But it still feels weird. Even in private. Because it’s almost like your brain got some sort of electrical shock but only passed the twitching jerk to your muscles. No electricity.

I read somewhere that when you sleep soundly, your body is basically paralyzed. And they said that, for the most part, even during the most active dreams your muscles stay relaxed and still. And if someone watched you at that time they wouldn’t even be able to tell.

But, apparently, there’s also this thing called “brain battle.”

You’ve probably heard of R.E.M. sleep. No, not the 80’s band. The rapid-eye movements during sleep time. During that time your eyes can “follow” the activity you dream about. For example, you see an airplane fly by in your dream. And your eyes follow it across the sky.

Rapid-eye movements, in your dream world, escape the normal sleep paralysis. And they show up in the awake world. If you’ve ever seen a sleeping person’s eyes move, you got to watch them as they dreamed.

But then the brain battle part happens when hypnic jerks come to town. Those movements don’t reflect what’s going on in your dream. In other words, just because you dream of riding a bike, it doesn’t mean you’ll start to move your legs in circles. In fact, those jerks seem to be evidence that your motor system can still control your body, a little bit, as sleep paralysis starts to kick in.

So, it appears to be that the part of your system that helps you sleep sometimes sort of battles your system that helps you stay awake.

Well, aren’t you the complicated little creation?

But guess what’s NOT complicated. The simple instrumental lullaby called “Drifting Off.” Listen to a sample of it, as well as all the other songs in the Lullabye Bye collection, here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV4pKjLJWgg)

Science shows these lullabies can help you get rid of the hypnic jerks. Remember, trust the science. It’s just good science.

Then, jump on over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop to get your special kids their very own Lullabye Bye coloring, drawing songbook. By the way, you’ll find a link, in the book, to download all the songs. AND they’re included in the cost of the book. That makes ’em, shh, eff are E E.

Download your copy of the Lullabye Bye book in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop right now. And enjoy the experience with your kids or grandkids tonight.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 2, 2024 by TonyAugust 16, 2024

Hot weather conditions, poetic transitions

I’m not a fan of hot weather conditions. Yeah, there’s a pun hiding in plain sight, there. But I’m not gonna pun-ish you, more, right now. If you’ve been staying inside to lounge in the coolness of air conditioning, believe me, I’m with ya man. And it IS a manly thing to do. Here’s why.

Hot weather conditions can wring rhymes right out of the air.

At least they can for the writer who dares to relax in the air conditioning with his (or her, and those are the only two choices) head in the metaphorical clouds. Oh, and his mind off things that don’t matter.

Aye, as they say in olde Arland (that’s Irish phonics for Ireland), and that’s just what I allowed m’self ta do just a sprinklin’ over 10 years ago. And the result is this Rhyme Time riddle. Forget the hot weather conditions for a few minutes. And see if the wee lads and lassies can solve it and tell me…

Where I Am Now

Can you guess where I am now?
I am hiding in plain sight.
You might think I’m in the grass,
And you’d almost be just right.

But the grass is just close by.
It can see me. So can you,
If you know right where to look…
If you read this riddle through.

I’m in something you might love
And on something you might see
In the front yard or in back.
Take a look and you’ll see me.

Little bugs crawl on my face,
And some worms dig down inside.
Where my wrinkles crinkle up,
There are places they can hide.

But now here’s a little twist…
I am somewhere else as well.
In a puppy? In a dog?
Read this riddle…it will tell.

If that puppy sees a cat
Climbing up the Aspen bough,
Then the clues will all be there
Showing you where I am now.

Before you go, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 1, 2024 by TonyAugust 1, 2024

Wow. August the first. And this month started out the same way July ended. HOT! Blazing, triple digits hot. A/C running almost continuously all day hot. And did I mention it was hot?

I just looked at my weather app. August the first ain’t the end of it.

I’m in the heart of the heartland of America now. But 10 years ago, on August the first, it was a whole ‘nother story. Here’s what I wrote about THAT day:

“Then, in the evening things cooled off with some rain and mountain breezes. Ahh…it’s so great to live in a place that can be in the 90’s during the day and cool off into the low 60’s at night. If you’re like me, you might enjoy the scent of rain sprinkling on the lawn and quenching the thirsty streets. Here at the FunderRanch we love to sleep with the windows open so the night breezes fill the room. It’s so much more refreshing than plain ol’ air conditioning.”

Yeah, that makes me homesick for Colorado. For sure. But I don’t let climate change (and that’s what climate always does, it changes) ruin my day, week, month, or year. Because I know “to everything there is a season.” The Byrds told me so.

And August always takes me back to some nostalgic summertime memories like…

the last barefoot days of the season
a train trip from Kansas to Texas
getting new school clothes
looking forward to all my new school supplies
cooler weather

So, here’s my favorite part about August the first.

It marks the beginning of the end of the hot weather. Sure, there’s still 30 more days of August. And September can have some hot days, too. But then the cool, crisp days of Autumn swoop in from the Northwest and revive me.

That’s why I wrote…

The August sky is full of colors
And sometimes drops of rain.
It makes me think of bygone summers
And riding on a train.
The golden sun, like Kansas wheat,
Would bake the fields of corn,
And I bucked endless bales of hay
And all my jeans were torn.
I still remember pools of blue
And going to “the game.”
My bike was candy apple red
And “Flyer” was its name.
So many memories are there
Up in the August sky.
The colors still shine brightly
As I watch the years fly by. © 2013

Before you go, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on July 31, 2024 by TonyJuly 31, 2024

I remember learning the Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep prayer way before I “went to school.” Naturally, I didn’t get the full meaning of it, at the time. Because I was a little kid. I just loved the sound of the rhyme.

“Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord my soul to keep.”

Did you ever learn that one? And when I say “one,” I gotta add that I didn’t realize there were several versions of that little poem. Here’s the famous version I learned.

Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep.
If I should die before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take.

After I got older I started to think of that one as a little bit morbid. Or pessimistic. So, when I found this next version, I immediately liked it more.

Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep;
Angels watch me through the night,
And wake me with the morning light.

Not that dying in my sleep, and going to be with the Lord in Heaven is morbid or pessimistic. Quite the opposite. But that first version still seems pessimistic to teach to a little kid who’s just getting started in life. You can see that, right?

And this third, longer version, takes it a step further.

Matthew, Mark, Luke and John,
Bless the bed that I lie on.
Four corners to my bed,
Four angels round my head;
One to watch and one to pray
And two to bear my soul away.

No, I’m gonna go with the second version. Because it’s filled with hope for a new day. But I guess I’m just a hopeful romantic. Or, in this case, hopeful optimist. Of course, I’ve read the ending to the bestselling book of all time. So, I know there’s massive logic to feeling optimistic. And it’s nice to lie down to sleep that way.

But, believe it or not, some kids don’t wanna lie down to sleep.

Gasp! Can that be true?! Yes. And I hear tell that some of them fight nap time with all their might. I know older people think, “Fight nap time? Why?!” But put yourself in a kid’s place. They’ve got a whole world of brand new things to learn. And sleep just robs them of time to do that.

I wrote a song about a kid who doesn’t wanna lay down to sleep. And when you read or hear the three verses, you can almost see a little kid who’s fighting sleep with all he’s got. He thinks he has good reasons, too. And you almost can’t argue with his logic. But he’s also losing the battle of mind over nap time.

That’s why the chorus says:

Now I lay…lay me down,
Blink and wink, my dreams come and take me.
Now I lay…lay me down,
If I’m gone too long, come and wake me.

So, I referenced two famous bedtime poems in the chorus.

I’m sure you could easily see the connection to Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep. But did you notice the “nod” to another famous one, when I said “blink and wink?”

Anyway…

Listen to a sample of “Now I Lay Me Down,” as well as all the other songs in the Lullabye Bye collection here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV4pKjLJWgg)

Then, after you have a nice nap, jump on over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop to get your special kids their very own Lullabye Bye coloring, drawing songbook. By the way, you’ll find a link, in the book, to download all the songs. AND they’re included in the cost of the book. That’s called Fuh-Ree.

Download your copy of the Lullabye Bye book in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop right now.

Stay tuned…