We’ve turned toward fall in North America–the final weeks of technical summer winding down and people are jumping into pumpkin spice and fall decor. Fall is one of my favorite times of year, so these weeks leading up to the autumnal equinox are always a time of tension for me–I want the cooler temperatures and colored leaves and sweaters (oh, sweaters!), but I also need to remember to live in the everyday where I am right now. It’s a picture of the greater tension we always face–looking ahead and keeping our feet planted right where they are. May you navigate the tension with grace.

Around the Web

Stories Teach – Even If We Do Not Want Them To

Matthew Bianco reminds us of the power of stories.

By gazing on and contemplating things in a regular arrangement and always in the same condition, that neither do nor suffer injustice among themselves, all disposed in order in accord with reason, they imitate these things and take on their likeness as much as possible. Or do you imagine there’s another way for anyone not to imitate whatever he dwells with and admires” (Republic, Book VI, 500c)?
We become what we behold, it is said. Which is, of course, a wittier and and more quotable way of saying what Socrates said above.
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Glorify God. Keep a Journal.

Rebecca Vandoodewaard challenges us to record our days and God’s work.

We may think of journaling as a bit archaic—maybe even Victorian. I certainly did when my then-boyfriend suggested we start one together.
But church history shows us that journaling does not belong to a particular time or place or age. It has been useful to Christians of all ages for thousands of years—and still is, despite the technology that threatens it. Journals are as diverse as their authors, each writing for particular reasons and benefits, though there is a common theme.
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35 Jokes for Kids

If there’s one thing I know about kids, it’s that every single one goes through at least one phase of joke-adoration. So if you’ve got one in that stage, here’s some zingers for you!

Here are some jokes that my kids have been laughing hysterically at. Do your kids have a favorite joke that was missed?
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4 Ways to Help Your Kids See the Bible as Truth

Janet Perez Eckles reminds us of our firm foundation.

“Sometimes I can’t sleep,” my 12-year-old granddaughter said, “I’m kinda scared of the Corona Virus.”
I hugged her tight. Honey, God is protecting us and He’ll always be with us no matter what.”
She sighed. “I know. But sometimes I’m not so sure.”
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Around the Warren

Storytelling and Side-Glances

Alicia Pollard reminds us of the story-moments that stick with us.

Snow falling on a field of dream-scented scarlet poppies; a gold river that sings when you swirl your fingers in it; a gargoyle breathing sweet, warm breath onto a girl’s hands to help her grip better as she climbs a cliff. Do you remember snippets and side-views like these in your favorite books that resonated through your soul, even though they weren’t always critical to the plot? Not just the crescendo of a good climax or the satisfaction of a happy ending, but tucked-away moments of delight, like green hills you see rushing past through train windows?
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Serious Joy: the Music of Michael J. Tinker

Kelly Keller introduces us to a kindred-spirit musician from across the pond.

We at Story Warren believe heartily in the power of music to steer the atmosphere of the individual and a family. We’ve told you about Slugs & Bugs, Rain for Roots, The Corner Room, and other favorites. Today I have a new name to add to your list: Michael J. Tinker.
I met Michael and his wife, Jo, at dinner one night at Hutchmoot 2019. They were on a grand tour of portions of the US and had made the conference a non-negotiable on the list. It is easy to see the congruence of Michael’s vision with that of our buddies at the Rabbit Room. He says on his website, “Every time we create – whether it’s a piece of music, a work of art, a landscaped garden or even a pie – we reflect the one who made us and what we were made for….”
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Something to Do with Your Kids

This article is about making soap for Halloween, but the principle works for any season: make soap at home and make it fun!

Something to Watch

Andy Serkis has narrated a new audiobook version of The Hobbit (releases in the US on Sept. 21), which sounds like a fantastic pairing. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a huge Rob Inglis fan, too, but the 21st Century Gollum reading this classic? Yes. In this video, he talks about getting to know the book and the recording process, and I’m even more excited about the upcoming release.