Sparkle Stories Blog

This Father's Day we want to inspire you to go beyond the typical clay and tempera paint ashtrays and noodle necklaces and make something that Dad will really like. What's a better gift than playing with your kids? We've got lots of handmade gifts that will allow kids and dads to play together — getting more out of the day than just presents.

This week's craft, a tiny toothbrush robot, would be perfect for a rainy summer day. However, it does require one piece of special equipment—a vibrating cell phone motor that's easiest to order online—so we recommend collecting the supplies ahead of time and stashing them away until they're needed.

Perhaps it's because our family just finished our first season of pinewood derby, but I can readily identify with Jane's deep dive into learning about cars. What makes them go faster? Is aerodynamics important? Or is it all about weight? The research and reading and testing is fascinating.

Sit spots are a fantastic way to connect with yourself and with your environment without too much effort. Find a comfy spot out in nature, return to it again and again, and experience the magic!

The Warden is so important to the animals that when he finally returns to the Junkyard, they all want to jump out of hiding and wish him a Merry Christmas — but they can’t. They aren’t supposed to show themselves — it is a rule. But Christmas magic brings a solution that leaves all the animals marveling and feeling deeply grateful.

The *Junkyard Tales Audio Advent Calendar* Day 18. The following morning, Sergeant tells Lil Mamma that she might return to the old maple tree because there was “something waiting for her.” What could it be, wonders the busy rabbit. Snow? A badger? A broken limb? But what she discovers surprises and delights her.

The *Junkyard Tales Audio Advent Calendar* Day 5. When the five young mice encounter the French Canadian racoon family, they learn from Roger Rowland, the father, that what people truly value is money.

The Junkyard Tales Audio Advent Calendar Day 9. Right when the Junkyard animals are all worried for the young mice and Spiro, Harriet Hawk arrives with good news: she has seen the mice and Angus and Spiro. All are safe! This reassures everyone except Zippy who is determined to help his friend.

The *Junkyard Tales Audio Advent Calendar* Day 17. The second big storm comes to the Junkyard and this time, it brings with it some unexpected guests: The Squirrel Circus! This thrills the Junkyard animals — that is, everyone except the steadfast watchdog who worries that the loud and enthusiastic squirrels will bring too much attention.

The *Junkyard Tales Audio Advent Calendar* Day 11. Though the other mice have full bellies and are sleeping comfortably in the shed, Starlight is awake and wondering what to do. Then she sees a bright star shining overhead and realizes it is a sign — the star formation! The snow has stopped and it’s time for the mice to go home!