Tony Funderburk

Berries And Blooms

Posted on July 20, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

I can still see the rich, plump black berries and blooms next to farmers’ fences in the hot, dry summers in Kansas. I remember picking the berries and hearing the first ones clunk when I dropped ’em into the metal bucket. And I could hardly wait to get back home to wash ’em and make some homemade ice cream. If you’ve never had homemade blackberry ice cream…what are you waiting for?

There’s just something about the way vine ripe blackberries turn ice cream a dark purple-blue. Knowing they were picked from vines with your very own hands gives the dessert an extra burst of yummy. It’s awesome to walk under a warm, summer sun in the country, the warm breezes stirring all around you. You feel the leaves against your arms. Then, you smell the black berries and blooms of white flowers, grass, and other creekside plants.

All of this won’t get you any extra friends on Facebook, Twitter, Google, Instagram, or any other social media channels. But it will make you a richer person. It might even make you smile.

Berries and blooms by a country creek
In a place where people wave and smile.
They can bring you joy on a summer’s day.
You should get there soon and stay awhile.

You could make ice cream or bake a pie
Or spoon ’em out of a bowl of cream.
Eat ’em raw and turn your fingers blue.
You can decide which way is supreme.

Berries and blooms make memories nice
With colors and scents you’ll still recall,
When the years breeze by and start to fade.
Berries and blooms help you think of it all.

Stay tuned,

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Read Me A Story

Posted on July 19, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

When I was a little kid, I loved it when my mom or grandmother or basically any adult would read me a story. I had a vivid, colorful imagination (some things never change), and I could create whole movies inside my head. All I needed were the words to create pictures, and at that young age getting the words required the help of an adult.

Like I said…some things never change. Little kids still need an adult for the full reading experience. When a kid says “read me a story”, moms and dads and every adult should look at that as an opportunity to help build a strong mind and brain. When you have a chance to read to little kid, really put yourself into it. Use different voices for different characters. Use sound effects. It doesn’t matter if they’re any good or not. Little kids just like to see a grownup be silly.

And if being silly is all it takes to get young minds on a path of reading for life, it’s worth it.

Read me a story where the good guy wins…
And sails the ocean on a blue whale’s fins…
Where dreams come true and the world is right.
Read me a story and leave on the light.

Take me places where I’ve never been.
Open windows, and let the stars shine in.
I can see it all inside my head.
All I need tonight is a story read.

Read me a story, and I’ll fall asleep
And dream of mountain goats and bighorn sheep
That pull my wagon through a dream-filled night.
Read me a story and leave on the light.

Stay tuned,

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Great Big Smile

Posted on July 17, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

OK…whatever you’re doing right now (including reading my writing) take a few seconds and put a great big smile on your face. I don’t care if it feels weird. Just do it. C’mon, let’s see that great…big…smile.

Ahh…there it is. I knew you could do it.

Now, I know there are times you just don’t feel like smiling. No worries. I’m the same way. But remember, we’re talking about feelings. And feelings change. And you can even help them change. You can drop the blue and get back to you…with a great big smile.

I remember, when I was about 12 or 13, my dad was really into running. He ran every evening after he got home from work. After I watched him do that for a while, I asked if I could run with him. He said, “Sure, get on your running shoes and let’s go.” So, we took off through the neighborhood and out past several blocks further than I typically went. I began to get a little out of breath, and he told me to loosen up my hands, breathe deeper, and put a great big smile on my face.

“Smile?!”, I replied with a confused tone in my voice.

“You bet,” he said. “You’ll be surprised at how much different you feel if you smile through it.”

So…I did. And you know what? He was right. So…

When you’re feeling blue,
Here’s what you can do…
And it’s easy, too…
Just smile.
Blues will go away
When you simply say
I just need to pray
And smile.
You would change your mood
And your attitude…
Oh, if only you’d
Just smile.
All those things you feared
Will have disappeared
Once you’ve volunteered
Your smile.
Before it’s too late
Please don’t make us wait…
Let us see that great
Big smile.

Stay tuned,

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How To Write Poems For Kids

Posted on July 16, 2013 by TonyNovember 1, 2023

Children's writer, Tony Funderburk, says don't be so serious when you write Poems For Kids

If you’ve ever wondered how to write poems for kids, then I have some serious, sage advice…don’t be so serious and sage.

Through all my years as a children’s writer, singer songwriter, and even illustrator I’ve observed kids and their funny ways. And because they have funny ways, I look for ways to put those funny ways into the rhymes I write. Poems for kids should be fun, funny, and full of imagination. Imagination filled with color, action, and rhythm. Word pictures should leap into those growing little minds. And I’m of the firm belief that poems for kids should help them have faith, hope, and love…with a smile.

Now, some writers prefer to go the route of realism…in other words…reflect the culture, in all its raw grit, in their poems and stories. I couldn’t disagree more. The way I see it…kids get enough reality in the real world. Just watching five minutes of a news program they can see how unsafe this world is. They don’t need to dive into a poem, or story, or ebook and find it there, too.

Is this providing “an escape”? You bet it is. Give a kid optimism about faith, hope, and love. The media they consume should nurture those feelings and show them the good guy wins…and dark days don’t last forever. Happy endings should abound.

There’s this incredible book…maybe you’ve heard of it? It’s called The Bible. It’s the best-selling book of all time. It’s a history book of the world, so there’s a lot of hard reality. But a big, big portion of it uses the technique I’ve laid out. It shows you how dark days won’t last forever, the good guy wins, and many people will love the happy ending.

No Other Person

Once upon a time you were one little cell
Living in your mom where you formed so well.
Then you were born and everyone knew
There was no other person who was quite like you.
You got bigger and you wondered why
A fish could swim and a bird could fly.
Every little thing was a fun, little game.
A dog was a friend, and you gave it a name.
A little more time, and you learned to read.
Each word was a friend that planted a seed
That formed an idea in your curious mind.
Then your need for knowledge left the kid behind.
That was well and good, and it had to be.
There was so much more in the world to see.
But please remember and don’t forget…
There are things in life that you might regret.
Don’t let love ever take a back seat.
Be willing to share it with whomever you meet.
Then, people might say, when you’re life is through…
There was no other person who was quite like you.

Speaking of the The Power of God’s Love Podcast. I suggest you go subscribe right now and tune in to everything I have to say about everything. Yeah, I think that about covers it. Actually, you should probably skip it. Because I’ll probably just say something that makes you mad. And nobody wants that.

But if you insist, choose your favorite source to deliver directly to your favorite device:

https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/fundercast

Stay tuned,

The Lonely Lily Pad

Posted on July 15, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

So, once there was a lily pad that no frog ever used.
You wouldn’t think a lily pad would get its feelings bruised,
But sure enough this lily pad cried to itself each night…
And each day did its very best to stay out of plain sight.

It watched the frogs spot other pads and jump on for a rest,
But no one seemed to want to be this lily pad’s first guest.
So what’s a lonely lily pad to do when no one seems to care…
And no one seems to notice as it floats from here to there?

Well, as it just so happened on a warm and muggy day…
A snake was chasing bullfrogs, but the bullfrogs got away
By jumping from the water onto places safe and sound.
They knew the snake would not pursue up on the solid ground.

But one poor bullfrog lagged behind because one leg was bad.
It accidentally landed on the lonely lily pad.
The lily pad was startled because this was all quite new.
It stared up at the bullfrog without knowing what to do.

The bullfrog said, “Don’t move…because a snake is swimming by.
It’s hungry for some dinner, and it loves a bullfrog pie.”
The lily pad was quiet and it didn’t move an inch.
It felt the snake brush by, and it was so hard not to flinch.

They held their breath and waited for the snake to disappear,
And when it did, they caught their breath. The coast was finally clear.
The bullfrog said, “Thank you so much. You really saved my skin.
With my bad leg you just don’t know the trouble I was in.”

The lily pad said, “Glad to help. I’ve been here all along,
But no frogs seemed to notice, and I’ve wondered what was wrong.
Am I not green like other pads? Am I too small to see?
Could you just take a minute to say what is wrong with me?”

The bullfrog croaked a throaty laugh and with a wink replied,
“You’re just as green as all the rest with lots of room to ride.
But you’ve been hiding from us in the grasses and the reeds.
We couldn’t even see you in the middle of the weeds…

Don’t be so shy and quiet that we don’t know when you’re here.
Come out and join us all, and you have nothing more to fear.
I’ll croak to all the others how you helped me with the snake,
And soon you’ll be the lily pad who’s lighting up the lake.”

And if you ever find that lake, you’ll see this story’s true.
The lily pad and bullfrog have remained the best friends, too.
Not everything works out this well, so aren’t you awfully glad
There was a happy ending for the lonely lily pad?

And here’s the Rhyme Time Podcast for the week:

Stay tuned,

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Reading The Raindrops

Posted on July 14, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

Children's writer, Tony Funderburk, says Reading Raindrops is easy. You just need an open heart.

We’re really having an unusual stretch of rainy weather here in Colorado. Typically we don’t have so much rainfall in so many consecutive days. We’re sort of spoiled on 300 or more days of sunshine a year. So, the poet in me was looking at our little front yard flower garden, and I saw lots of raindrops perched on petals and leaves. As I was waiting for water to boil I started to daydream about reading the raindrops as little notes from heaven.

Once my green tea was brewed I immediately sat down at my trusty MacBook and began to type out my thoughts in verse. And this was one of those times writers love…the words mostly poured out of me. I didn’t strain to write a line or find a word. I guess my muse must have had an Americano for breakfast.

So, I hope you’re enjoying the weather, whatever it is, wherever you are. Remember…you’re only here on this planet for a short while. Love the moments before they’re memories…

~ Rhyme Time for Today ~

Little notes fall on the flowers in the garden
From a cloud that’s floating just above the trees.
I can hear the whole sky play
A little song for me today.
Reading the raindrops I can sing along with ease.

And the tympani is thunder pounding rhythm.
The conductor holds the lightning in his hand.
It’s a symphony, a song,
And it plays the whole day long.
Reading the raindrops I’m the singer in the band.

All the instruments are needed for the music.
It’s so beautiful that frozen hearts are thawed.
When I give up self-control,
It flows deep into my soul.
Reading the raindrops, little love notes, straight from God.

Stay tuned,

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Don’t Be A Lame Brain

Posted on July 13, 2013 by TonyFebruary 1, 2023

Children's writer, Tony Funderburk, asks if you want to be a lame brain or brainy brain

If you’ve ever watched any of those old Three Stooges movies, you’ve probably heard Moe call Larry and Curly “lame brain” more than once. Of course, that was the pot calling the kettle black. Moe was every bit as much a lame brain as the others. He just got to be the leader of the pack.

When I was a kid, most moms were homemakers. And they’d make breakfast for the kids before sending them off to school. I won’t say we always had perfect meals, but 9 times out of 10 we had something more than a dried up cereal, full of sugar, out of a box. I remember bacon, eggs, toast, cantaloupe, oranges, bananas, oatmeal with pecans, and lots more good stuff like that.

Those kinds of food give your brain a head start for the day. And they help build powerful brains for your whole lifetime. With a powerful brain that’s wide awake, you can read faster, understand more, and learn how to make the most of the gifts and talents God gave you.

That’s why today’s Rhyme Time is about the difference between being a lame brain or a brainy brain. Now, get out of your chair, go have some fruit or a smoothie, and give your brain a good workout.

~ Rhyme Time for Today ~

A lame brain can’t drive a train.
A lame brain can’t fly a plane.
A lame brain can’t add or spell.
A lame brain don’t talk so well.

A brainy brain reads poems and books.
A brainy brain takes second looks.
A brainy brain eats greens and fruit.
A brainy brain has pep to boot.

So, a lame brain or brainy brain…
Which one will your head contain?
From breakfast and all through the day…
Go for brainy…all the way.

Stay tuned,

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Reading Is So Delicious

Posted on July 12, 2013 by TonyAugust 1, 2024

Reading is delicious. Children's writer, Tony Funderburk, says take a big bite each day.

I heard this expression today: “reading is so delicious“. And being a lover of words and the word pictures they can stir up…well I just had to bake some of my thoughts about it. It’s only natural…and delicious. 🙂

When you think about what reading can do for you, it makes sense to say it’s delicious. At least when you’re using it as a metaphor. After all, I don’t think you would find the average book to be all that tasty. At least no books I’ve ever run across were. Most of the books I’ve ever read smelled like a library. And I wouldn’t want to bite into one of those.

Still, reading is SO delicious.

But just imagine what might go on inside your brain…even as you’re reading this. I can write the word “cantaloupe” and your mind might conjure up an image of a juicy, deep orange slice of melon. Or I can write the word “chocolate” and your mind probably conjures up a deep, dark cake…or your favorite candy bar…or even a steaming cup of hot chocolate on a blustery winter day.

Yum…I’m getting hungry just writing about it. See…reading IS so delicious.

Start with nature’s natural nouns…
And stir with vigorous verbs…
Then add a dash of adjectives…
They’ll be poetic herbs…
Some adverbs might go nicely…
A dash might be nutritious…
Now, let this story simmer…
See, reading is delicious.

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…

Things To Do With Kids In Denver

Posted on July 11, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

There are lots of things to do with kids in Denver. And I’ll bet even a lot of parents in Denver don’t realize how many fun things there are right here in their home town. So, imagine how kids in other states might feel if they think they’re gonna have to leave the really fun things they love to go hang out “in the mountains”.

I can just hear the moans and groans. For example…kids in Texas might like their huge lakes and Six Flags theme park or visits to the Alamo. Or kids in California might think they’re getting gypped out of time at the beach with all their friends. Or kids in New York city might think they’re gonna get eaten alive by bears or mountain lions.

Of course, since I’m a Colorado native, I’m biased. I believe we have the best place to vacation. And even though my favorite places to go in the summer are in the mountains, I know for a fact there are a ton of fun…really fun things to do with kids in Denver. Yep, right in the city.

But instead of giving you some dry bullet list of things to do with kids in Denver, I’m gonna give you an example of kids whining about why they don’t want to come here on vacation. And I’m gonna make it my Rhyme Time for Today. You’ll notice links in the verses. They’ll take you to where the fun is.

Don’t Wanna Go To Denver

Dad, we don’t wanna go to Denver.
We don’t wanna have to climb a mile high.
They don’t have a zoo, and there’s nothing fun to do.
Mom, why we gotta go there? Why?
We’d rather see Egyptian mummies
Or galaxies and stars in space.
We don’t wanna go where it’s covered up in snow.
Please don’t make us go to that place.
Do we really have to go to Denver?
Can’t we go to the theme park instead?
You prob’ly didn’t know there’s a new magic show.
Where a guy makes his hair turn red.
Oh no…we’re gonna go to Denver…
No water park or ocean waves.
We have to go and do what parents want us to.
We’re gonna be vacation slaves.

Stay tuned,

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Rhyme Machine

Posted on July 10, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

I saw the phrase “rhyme machine” and being a children’s writer I figured I’d run with it. Suddenly I saw kids jumping into a high-tech solar-powered rocket ship. They simply touched colorful pictures on a screen to zoom to imagination destinations.

And I could see the rhyme machine gliding effortlessly through the air without making a sound. Each stop was a blast. Every kid would dive in without a care in the world. Everything was safe and sound. Everyone was simply enjoying the trip. No fuss. No muss.

I know it’s make-believe. But hey…that’s what I deal in. That’s what I dish out. That’s what I do. So make your way to the imagination station and hop on the…

Rhyme Machine (Rhyme Time For Today)

Hop into my rhyme machine,
I’ll show you things you’ve never seen…
Where blues skies might turn into green…
Where you might be the king or queen…
Where everything is nice and clean…
And windows have a perfect sheen…
We’ll eat some pancakes with praline
And nuts and chocolate in between…
And share because there’s no one mean…
And then we’ll lie in fields of green…
Where we don’t have to wear sunscreen…
We’ll watch a jolly jumping bean…
And copy his whole dance routine…
We’ll probably spot a submarine…
Up on a giant silver screen…
And after we’ve seen this whole scene…
We’ll park our magic rhyme machine…
And go and eat our mom’s cuisine…
And meet back here at eight fifteen.

Stay tuned,

P.S. I really appreciate your support here on my website. Here are some other awesome ways you can show your support, keep my words and music flowing, and keep me off the streets.
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Butterflies For Kids

Posted on July 9, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

I don’t have any scientific proof, but I believe God made butterflies for kids.

Think about it. Butterflies are beautiful creatures. So are kids. Butterflies love to flitter here, there, and everywhere. So do kids. Butterflies love sweet things. Kids, do too. It’s difficult to look at butterflies and not smile. Same with kids.

OK…maybe I’m biased. I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for both butterflies and little kids. I suppose that’s why years ago I began to focus more on being a children’s writer. Or maybe it’s because a part of me…the part I’ll call my imagination…never outgrew the wonder of the world as seen through a child’s eyes.

Still…you have to admit, especially if you have little kids, they’re really fun (and funny) to watch. I remember one time when I went to a friend’s family reunion. This family had a lot of little kids. I mean a lot. And after everyone had lunch, a couple of the moms passed out little nets with colorful plastic handles to all the kids. They told them that the one who caught the most butterflies in the next half hour would get the first piece of cake for dessert. The kids loved it, and the grownups had a good time watching.

While adults can intellectually appreciate the beauty and form of creatures big and small, it takes a kid to truly dive into the amazing wonder.

And that’s why I believe God made…

Butterflies For Kids

Those butterflies they flutter by
And never make a sound.
Some soar up high into the sky…
Some just above the ground.
They land on flowers in the yard
And gently stretch their wings.
And then they fold them up again
And tend to other things.
Some little kids with little nets
Run barefoot through the yard.
They try to catch some butterflies,
But find out that it’s hard…
‘Cause butterflies fly up and down
And back and forth so well.
For kids who want to capture one
It’s like a magic spell.
They laugh and squeal in sheer delight
They nearly flip their lids.
And that’s why I’m quite sure that God
Made butterflies for kids.

Stay tuned,

P.S. I really appreciate your support here on my website. Here are some other awesome ways you can show your support, keep my words and music flowing, and keep me off the streets.
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Healthy Habits For Kids

Posted on July 8, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

Get plenty of sleep. Eat foods that are good for you. Don’t eat and drink sugary stuff all the time. Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Yep, these are all healthy habits for kids. But did you know that healthy habits are more than just food and hygiene?

For instance…there’s this very addictive invention that almost all American families have in their house. It’s called a TV. Maybe you’ve heard of it? Well, it’s one of the worst enemies of good health there is. Don’t get me wrong…it’s full of entertaining fun, but that’s where the danger lies. So many people get started watching one program and then hit the remote and watch another and another and so on.

Well, here’s a way to turn bad TV watching habits into healthy habits for kids. It’s really easy. When commercials come on, everybody gets up and does one household task. Just one. These can be folding clothes, or putting water out for the pet, or sweeping a room, or putting away the clean dishes from the dishwasher. The list is endless. And you might be surprised at how easy it is to get a lot done since there are so many commercials nowadays. Go ahead give it a go. It’s good for the whole family. Last one back has to make the smoothies next time.

There are lots of other ways to develop healthy habits for kids. And the younger you start with them the easier it is to get them in the groove.

Another example using TV time is what I call missiletoes. I misspelled that on purpose. Here’s how it works. When the commercials come on, tell the kids you want to see who can stand on their tiptoes the longest. They’re free to walk around, but they just can’t go back down on their heels or they’re out of the game. And while they’re up on their toes, you can fire questions at them about the show to see what they remember. Tell them it’ll earn them extra points.

Missiletoes can really build up leg muscles, and almost all kids enjoy being challenged. Especially if there’s a reward. Of course, make sure the reward is another one of those healthy habits for kids. More on that later.

There are lots of ways you can change unhealthy habits into healthy ones. Maybe you have some creative ideas you’d like to share. If so, leave a comment below. In the meantime, here’s the…

~ Rhyme Time For Today ~

Little things you do each day
Help to keep the blues away.
Jumping when you get a chance…
Doing a delightful dance…
Picking toys up off the floor
Before you head out the door…
Drinking smoothies colored green
Not those colas with caffeine…
Smiling when you’d rather frown…
Walking like a ten foot clown…
Splashing puddles in the rain…
Whistling like an old steam train…
I could just go on and on,
But I’d surely make you yawn.
So, I guess that’s all today.
Now, go chase those blues away.

And here’s the Rhyme Time Podcast Episode 3

Stay tuned,

P.S. I really appreciate your support here on my website. Here are some other awesome ways you can show your support, keep my words and music flowing, and keep me off the streets.
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Tennis Ball Used At Wimbledon

Posted on July 7, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

The men’s final is being played at Wimbledon today. I love tennis. It’s about the only sport I’ll still watch on TV. And something I find interesting is what kind of details spectators and speculators find interesting in the “big match”. They’ll get down to the details of the players’ gear, clothing, and shoes. They’re even talking about the tennis ball used at Wimbledon.

I suppose each thing can make a small difference. Still…the main thing always boils down to ability and desire to win. Many times a player with more desire to win can overcome even a player with more ability. We’ll see how it plays out this year.

In the meantime, I thought about what it might be like to be a tennis ball at Wimbledon. So, I decided to write today’s Rhyme Time from that perspective. Enjoy…

~ Rhyme Time For Today ~

A little yellow ball bebopping on the grass…
Rolls to the corner like it ran out of gas.
It just lays there with a frown on its face
And wishes it could bounce right out of this place.
Then a guy with a racket picks up the poor ball
As the crowd looks on…and in front of them all
He smacks the yellow ball just over a net,
But wait. You haven’t heard the worst of it yet.
A guy on the other side smacks the ball back.
They both seem ready for each other’s attack.
The little yellow ball flies high through the air
And it wonders, “Why me? This just isn’t fair.”
Then it lands on the grass with only one bounce,
And a guy leaps forward with a powerful pounce.
Once again, with a smack, the little ball flies
Back across that net, so it closes its eyes,
But it lands real close to bright white line,
As a judge says “Out!” there’s a groan and a whine.
Then the little ball rolls over into the shade,
And it thinks to itself, “Now, I’ve got it made.”
A kid comes over and picks up the little ball
While the second guy says “That was just a bad call.”
And everybody’s looking at a great big screen.
What’s this all about? What does it all mean?
The little yellow ball, with its little ball brain,
Just wished it would end and wished it would rain.
It never asked for this job, and it’s just no fun
Being a yellow tennis ball used at Wimbledon.

Stay tuned,

P.S. I really appreciate your support here on my website. Here are some other awesome ways you can show your support, keep my words and music flowing, and keep me off the streets.
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Posted on July 6, 2013 by TonyJune 16, 2023

Writer singer illustrator, Tony Funderburk, fondly remembers Tiddlywinks and Pick Up Sticks

Have you ever heard of tiddlywinks and pick up sticks?

When I was a kid, I played both of those fun games. It was also fun to play marbles, jacks, and checkers. Those games don’t need:

Batteries
Controlling devices, or
Internet connection

And they’re great for developing hand-eye coordination, patience, and perseverance. They can also be played in small areas, quiet spots, and even outdoors. Ooohhh…yes, I said outdoors. Imagine taking some rainbow colored marbles outside, drawing a circle in the dirt, and getting your shooter ready. Then, Pow! Your thumb flicks it into the middle of the marbles in the circle, and you capture that awesome cats-eye marble from your opponent.

Tiddlywinks and pick up sticks are like that, too.

With tiddlywinks you take a plastic disc or “wink” and use it to click down on other winks to make them pop up in the air. The idea is to get the wink to plop into a jar or box in the center. Get all yours in first and win.

Pick up sticks is just like the name says. You have a box of different colored sticks that each are worth different points. You shake them out into a pile on a table or the floor. And you have to pick up sticks without making other sticks move. The one with the highest score wins.

Tiddlywinks and pick up sticks and marbles and all those other games may not have bright, shiny lights and sound effects, but you can still play ’em even when there’s no electricity. And you never know when that might happen.

~ Rhyme Time For The Day ~

Tiddlywinks and pick up sticks
And rainbows and balloons…
Maybe add some marbles, too,
And silly, happy tunes.
Funtime in the bright sunshine
To while the hours away…
Oh, and what I wouldn’t give
To be a kid today.
I’d set up the checkerboard
And play a game or two…
Then go grab my bag of jacks
And see how well I’d do.
Maybe I’d go find my friends,
And we could fly a kite
Tied onto our fishing pole…
We’d send it out of sight.
Then we’d reel it in again
And go and get our bikes…
And we’d ride to secret lands
‘Cross levees and ‘cross dikes.
After that I’d say goodbye
And we’d all go our ways.
Yes, I guess that’s just how my
Imagination plays.

Stay tuned,

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Smiley Faces

Posted on July 5, 2013 by TonyFebruary 27, 2025

Smiley faces are some of the most used emoticons. But do they represent real emotions? Or something we just wish for?

You’ve probably noticed how nice everyone is at the grocery store or department store checkout. The clerk smiles and asks “How are you today?” And without even thinking about it for a second, you probably smile and say something like, “Fine, and you?”

But do you believe that’s how everyone really is? Fine?

I don’t. I think people put on their smiley faces and use them in texts and emails because they wish that’s how they felt. Certainly not all the time, but a lot of the time. And I believe that’s a good thing to do. In fact, I might go as far as to say…I think it’s what we should do.

Even if and when we don’t feel smiley, we should remember that our texts, emails, and other forms of communication aren’t all about us. Every time we talk to someone else it’s an opportunity to show lovingkindness and a way to maybe lift someone up who’s feeling down. It’s amazing how often we can do that and then have the same uplifting feeling reflected right back at us. Yep, we really can have done unto us as we have done unto others.

But then again…maybe you’re really special. Maybe you’re one of those people everyone else should be paying attention to. If so, then don’t worry about making smiley faces for anyone. You just sit and wait. I’m sure you’ll get all the smiley faces, love, gifts, and attention you can stand. After all…that’s what special people get…right?

Don’t bet on it.

~ Rhyme Time For The Day ~

Smiley faces make your face feel good.
Not everybody knows it…but everybody should.
Show someone yours today
And send those blues away.
You could light up your whole neighborhood.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on July 4, 2013 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

On this Independence Day 2013 take some time to read the Declaration of Independence.

On this Independence Day 2013 I took some time to read the Declaration of Independence. I recommend all Americans do that from time to time. A free people almost inevitably tends toward a selective memory or even total forgetfulness when it comes to how those freedoms came about.

And we should never forget the courage it took for the Founding Fathers to stand up to tyranny. England was the superpower of that time, so it was no small declaration. It meant that a fledgling band of colonies was now going to have to fend for itself, gird itself up for certain war, and find a way to afford to go up against one of the richest nations ever.

Those men who signed the Declaration of Independence had much to lose.

Yet they also knew that any government which denies “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” has forfeited its right to govern.

In the Declaration of Independence, the Founding Fathers carefully laid out a list of grievances and sound reason for their action. When you read it, you’ll see it wasn’t a matter of simply not liking King George and his politics. Far from it. The King, and his representatives, army, and navy were actually plundering towns, taking and killing captives on the high seas, levying unreasonable taxes, and even hiring “foreign agents” to kill and destroy.

America was not founded by a band of revolutionaries. It was declared and established by men who knew the laws of God are the true source of justice and freedom.

On this Independence Day 2013 I pray that even more people in America come to that knowledge and gain their own personal, eternal independence from tyranny.

~ Rhyme Time For Today ~

Those sparklers in your hand…
Those colors in the sky…
That barbecue and pop…
That tasty fish you fry…
The day off you enjoy…
The friends and family…
All reasons to recall…
How we came to be free.

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 3, 2013 by TonyMay 27, 2023

Writer singer illustrator, Tony Funderburk, shares some short bedtime stories.

Short bedtime stories are great for kids and for the adults who read to them. Here’s why…

The first, and hopefully the most obvious reason, is this. When parents (or other adults) read to kids, there’s a strong connection being made. Never underestimate the power of words to bond one generation with another.

To this day I still remember my mom reading to me at bedtime. She’d get out a very old book of nursery rhymes and bedtime stories, and I’d hear the tales of “Wynken, Blynken, and Nod”…and “The Old Woman Who Lived In A Shoe…and “As I Was Going To St. Ives”. My imagination would make the pictures come to life in my head.

Here’s another reason short bedtime stories are great.

Because…well…they’re short. When it’s time for kids to go to bed, reading something that has a beginning, a climactic middle, and an end all within a few pages is just the ticket. Then, little minds can toddle off to Dreamtown with fresh images and ideas to peacefully drift through.

And short bedtime stories are great for adults because they can embellish them with sound effects and funny faces and still not spend an hour getting the kids off to sleep. So…win-win. Before I send you on your way, though, here’s my…

~ Rhyme Time For Today ~

Bedtime stories aren’t for me.
I’m just too old to sleep.
I’ve got better things to do.
I just don’t need bopeep.
There are planets I’ll go find
After you leave the room.
And I must protect the house
From aliens of doom.
Bedtime stories are for kids
Who only want to sleep…
Silly kids whose eyes will close
Because they counted sheep.
But I’ll be in my rocket ship
And back home before dawn.
So, read to all those other kids.
I need to leave and…”yawn”.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on July 2, 2013 by TonyMarch 7, 2023

Writer singer illustrator, Tony Funderburk, recycled some of his classic Story Time Podcasts

Do you have kids? Know someone who does? Well, today I’m including links to some audio stories for kids I narrated, produced, and posted a while back. Most of these recycled podcasts have video, too. And you’ll hear some classic stories like “The Emperor’s New Clothes” as well as some more obscure stories. There’s even one by a young Romanian writer.

If you’d like to hear other stories narrated by me…or here’s another idea…if you’ve written short stories and would like to see if any of them would be good audio stories for kids, let me know. Maybe I can narrate your story, too. For now, check the links below, and I’d love to hear what you thought or how your kids liked ’em.

~ Rhyme Time For Today ~

Flower Petal Watercolors

Flower petal watercolors
Swirling liquid notions…
Roses, daisies, daffodils
Turn into trees and oceans.
Aromatic afternoons
Lead us by our senses
To the place where art begins…
No boundaries or fences.
Flower petal watercolors…
Poppies, periwinkles…
Give the children brushes, and
Then watch for smiling twinkles.

If you enjoyed the Rhyme Time for today, be sure and check all the others here on my website. I write something new every day. Yep, every day.

And by popular request, below you’ll find links to the 11 audio stories for kids I mentioned. Here’s a hint…(subscribe to my podcast, and you’ll get things like this delivered to you for free and you won’t have to come back and look for them every time)

Stay tuned,

No-cost, low-cost, and premium ways you can show your support…

Tell everybody you know to subscribe to Tony’s Daily Devotional
(emails with good stuff for Fa-Ree)

Get my Rhyme & Reason Podcast delivered right to your device. (also Fa-Ree)

Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.

My books are also on Amazon.com or Apple Books

Grab yourself an un-cool T-shirt

Or how about some music for believers, dreamers, and thinkers

Here are the links to audio stories for kids:

Story Time Episode 1 Story Time Episode 2 Story Time Episode 3

Story Time Episode 4 Story Time Episode 5 Story Time Episode 6

Story Time Episode 7 Story Time Episode 8 Story Time Episode 9

Story Time Episode 10 Story Time Episode 11

Posted on July 1, 2013 by TonyMarch 7, 2023

Tony Funderburk writes Christian books for kids to encourage them to sing a new song to God. It doesn't have to be perfect. Just be perfectly you.

You’re not perfect, and that’s something you should never worry about. If you’re worrying, and fretting, and always thinking about how you can or could be perfect, you’re really going to limit how much good you can do for others in this world.

Think about this…even though you’re not perfect I’ll bet your mom loves you…or your dad…or your best friends. Right? Are they crazy to love such a messed up person? No. They love you just because you’re you. And they enjoy being around you. Or they enjoy the way you laugh, or tell a funny story, or make a funny face.

They know you’re not perfect.

And those people who love you probably know they’re not perfect either. That’s how all of us humans should be able to see each other…and get along better. Of course we don’t all get along or love each other…or even like each other. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try. The easiest way to start getting along with people is to not look for their flaws and goofs.

So, don’t worry that…

You’re not perfect
And neither am I.
And both of us
Should never try.
Perfect people
Don’t exist.
If you think so,
Please resist.
You can be you…
And it’s okay.
Keep on growing
Every day…
In your spirit,
Body, and soul.
You’re much more than
Energized coal.
You didn’t happen.
You were designed
A loving Creator
Had you in mind
To be a real person
To think and do…
And though you’re not perfect
You’re perfectly YOU.

And here’s the Rhyme Time Podcast Episode 2

Stay tuned,

No-cost, low-cost, and premium ways you can show your support…

Tell everybody you know to subscribe to Tony’s Daily Devotional
(emails with good stuff for Fa-Ree)

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Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.

My books are also on Amazon.com or Apple Books

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Posted on June 30, 2013 by TonyMarch 7, 2023

Writer singer illustrator, Tony Funderburk, recommends you keep words and music in your heart.

Do you have words and music in your heart? You don’t have to be a singer songwriter or composer or poet. You only have to be still and listen. There are wonderful words and music written on the tablet of your heart.

If you sit very still and listen very closely, you’ll learn to hear the words and music that live inside you. It may not happen the first time you try it. But if you don’t give up, and keep believing, and keep trying one day you’ll hear it. Now, here’s something important you have to remember. You shouldn’t try to keep it all to yourself. Share it.

When you share the words and music in your heart,

You might just help someone else hear what’s in their heart. And wouldn’t that be fun? Imagine the fun you could have singing a song for the first time that no one else ever sang before. Imagine something only you can hear…and then it comes out of you in your voice. It’s the most beautiful way to show your love. So…

Keep words and music in your heart
And sing a song each day.
Then pass it on to someone else…
You were designed that way.
The words and music in your heart
Could be what someone needs
To help them grow and bloom again
Like flowers among weeds.
With words and music in your heart
Your world’s a better place.
So, don’t just keep it locked inside.
Share it with love and grace.

Stay tuned,

No-cost, low-cost, and premium ways you can help me spread the Word…

Tell everybody you know to subscribe to Tony’s Daily Devotional
(emails with good stuff for Fa-Ree)

Get my Rhyme & Reason Podcast delivered right to your device. (also Fa-Ree)

Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.

My books are also on Amazon.com or Apple Books

Grab yourself an un-cool T-shirt

Or how about some music for believers, dreamers, and thinkers