Shows
Storybook RailroadThe Mouse Who Changed ChristmasThis is the story of how a mouse unintentionally changed Christmas. It is spoken by the authors of the children's book of the same name. We hope you enjoy this delightful Christmas story that imagines how a mouse chewed a hole in the bellows of the church organ with the mission of finding a perfect melody for Silent Night. His misunderstanding of where melodies come from led to his unintentional act of causing the organ to malfunction. One thing leads to another afterwards and the story of how Silent NIght became a song is finally told.2024-08-2017 min
The World Spins Fine On Her OwnWine Tasting at ABC Wine and Spirits in Ocala, FloridaWe participated in a wine tasting event hosted by ABC Fine Wine and Spirits on SR 200 (College Road) in Ocala, Florida. There were seventeen tasting tables there. This is the audio from a YouTube video we recorded of this same event.2023-01-131h 05
The World Spins Fine On Her OwnMr. Rogers Walking Tour at Rollins CollegeOn March 21, 2022 we took a drive to Winter Park, Florida, to visit the campus of Rollins College. At Rollins there is a statue commemorating Fred Rogers, also known as Mr. Rogers from the children's TV program "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood." In addition to the statue there are a few other exhibits that have been included in a self-guided walking tour.2022-03-2214 min
The World Spins Fine On Her OwnHiking The Dunnellon TrailWe hiked the Dunnellon Trail in Dunnellon, Florida, for a little over four miles. The trail included a foot bridge over the Withlacoochee River and we eventually made it to the vehicle bridge that crosses over the Rainbow River on Hwy 484. The complete video version of this podcast is on our YouTube channel for The World Spins Fine On Her Own.2021-04-1847 min
The World Spins Fine On Her OwnHoward Moon InterviewIn this episode of The World Spins Fine On Her Own we interviewed author, poet, storyteller, broadcaster, journalist, and mental health advocate Howard Moon. Howard talked to us about his writing, his Native American heritage, mental health, and the state of the world as he sees it.2021-04-1250 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnDunnellon Boomtown Days 2021In this episode we visit the small town of Dunnellon, Florida, to take in their annual event called Boomtown Days. We spoke to a few of the participants, learned a lot about the history of the area, met some old friends, and had a fun time. Then we drove to Ross Prairie and did a couple of plein air paintings. Yes, the world truly does spin fine on her own.2021-04-1157 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnManatee Festival, Crystal River, Florida - March 28, 2021We drove to Crystal River with Robin's Mom, Beverly, and strolled around the Manatee Festival. While there we also took a walk down to the river where Larry reminisced about his childhood when his grandparents would often take him and his siblings swimming at the same riverside beach.2021-03-2826 minThe World Spins Fine On Her Own2021 Kumquat Festival in Dade City, FloridaWe visited the Kumquat Festival in Dade city. In this podcast we interview a few of vendors at the festival, try some kumquat ice cream, and buy a couple of bags of kumquats. Plus, Robin gets to hug a skunk!2021-03-2746 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnUniversal Studios City WalkWe visited Universal City Walk at Universal Studios Orlando, Florida, for the first time in over 20 years. Much had been added and we enjoyed the sights, the food, the ambiance, and we even strolled through a beautiful garden to visit Lowe's Portofino Bay Resort before taking a water taxi back to City Walk. Plus, Robin got a margarita at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville.2021-03-2132 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnMuseum of Natural History at the University of FloridaWe visited the Museum of Natural History at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, and learned about the natural history and some of the political and human history of the State of Florida.2021-03-0731 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnHiding And Seeking In Ocala, FloridaToday we hid some art and a book for someone else to find and we also embarked on a geocaching journey around Ocala. The weather was beautiful and it was such a joy when we saw a video of the young family that found the art and the children's book. The geocaching was a challenge, for sure, but we had a great time and shared some precious laughter and time together.2021-02-2828 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnThe Brooksville 1885 Train Depot Museum and Good Neighbor Bicycle Trail RideOn Saturday, February 20, 2021, we drove to Brooksville, Florida to ride our bicycles on the Good Neighbor Trail. At the trailhead, in Brooksville, is a Train Depot Museum that is small in size but HUGE in historical information. Our tour guides were Gary and Jess (we didn't get their last names). We hope you enjoy listening to these amazingly knowledgeable hosts. If you would like to see video and photographs of our visit we will post those on Facebook under The World Spins Fine On Her Own.2021-02-211h 00The World Spins Fine On Her OwnWithlacoochee Bay Trail Bicycle RideWe took our bicycles to the Withlacoochee Bay Trail between Inglis and Crystal River Florida and rode the trail that follows the Cross Florida Barge Canal. The one-way distance was about 6 miles. We hoped to see wildlife and we saw an armadillo on the grassy area next to the trail. A fun ride and we were able to get it in before the rain started.2021-02-0628 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnBicycling The South Lake and Lake Minneola Scenic TrailIn today's podcast we document our 15 mile bicycle ride on the South Lake and Lake Minneola Scenic Trail in Lake County, Florida. The weather was beautiful, we saw a lot of activity, discovered areas practically in our own back yard that we never explored before, and we even got to witness a high school band rehearsing for a presentation and performance they will be doing. The school is Lake Minneola High School and we spoke to a teacher named Steven who composed the visual elements of the program. Because of the Covid 19 pandemic the students literally were short-changed a...2021-01-3136 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnOur Visit To Johns Pass at Madeira BeachToday we drove to Johns Pass at Madeira Beach, Florida. There was an arts and crafts show that we attended. We walked around, took in the sights, had a couple of slices of pizza, listened to a talented young man (12 years old!) sing, took photos, and strolled over to the beach. Once again we are proving that, for us anyway, the world DOES spin fine on her own!2021-01-2423 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnWeekiwachee PreserveWe visited Weeki Wachee State Park but, except for renting kayaks, it was closed. So we drove a little farther to Weekiwachee Preserve (note that the name is one word in the preserve but two words in the state park). We hiked three miles and christened a lake as "First Mermaid Lake." 2021-01-1124 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnRobin And The Giant Christmas SpecialWe relive a fond memory of the days when we would visit nursing homes and Assisted Living Facilities between Thanksgiving and Christmas and perform a Christmas show. The old book we used for that show was dusted off, the guitar was tuned up, we turned on our hand-held recorder and set it on the table, and we performed the songs from those shows we did so many years ago. We had fun doing this. We hope that spirit of fun translates. Merry Christmas!2020-12-2047 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnRiding The Disney Springs Hot Air BalloonWe drove down to Disney Springs with the hope that the hot-air balloon ride would be operating. We had been there numerous times before and never seemed to be able to be there when the weather conditions were favorable for riding in the hot air balloon. Well this time was different! So, as a result of our trip, we bring to you this rather short podcast.2020-12-2015 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnExploring Ocala's Christmas Lights and Our Christmas MemoriesWe drove around Ocala looking at Christmas lights and, since this is an audio podcast and we can't show you the lights, we describe some of the lights and share our memories of Christmas past. There is also a video version of this podcast that we have linked on our Facebook page. Merry Christmas! Hopefully the spirit of the season is captured in this episode.2020-12-1340 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnCarson Springs Wildlife Conservation FoundationWe visited the Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation near Gainesville, Florida, on Saturday, December 5, 2020 and took a walking tour to see the many amazing animals in their care. The young lady who guided us through the tour is named Katie and it is her voice that you will hear through most of this podcast. She was speaking to a group of approximately 30 people and did an amazing job explaining, answering questions, being entertaining and informative, and giving us all a sense of appreciation for the work being done at Carson Springs. We invite you to listen and take the...2020-12-061h 22The World Spins Fine On Her OwnCamping at High Falls State ParkWe camped for three nights at High Falls State Park in Jackson, Georgia. While there we drove about twenty miles to see the town of Juliett, Georgia, where the movie "Fried Green Tomatoes" was filmed about 20 years ago. We also went down to a river's edge and did some plein-air painting of the landscape there.2020-11-2637 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnGreg Cartwright Interviews Larry WhitlerWell, this is a very different type of a podcast for us. Instead of going anywhere we stayed home and spoke on the phone. The phone call was an interview with radio personality (and songwriter/singer/musician) Greg Cartwright. Greg was interested in talking about a 45rpm vinyl record that Larry recorded in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1972. We didn't edit this at all so, as they say, "it is what it is." 2020-11-1545 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnDunnellon's First Saturday MarketWe drove a whole 12 miles for today's adventure to the town of Dunnellon, Florida, to visit their First Saturday Market. We visited the vendors, strolled through the beautiful Grumbles House, and even had tea and pie at Sweetie's Cafe'. Afterwards we reminisced about our old memories of Dunnellon reaching back to 1972. Another fun day for the two of us!2020-11-0730 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnThings Ocalans Are Thankful ForWe set up a microphone on the downtown Ocala square with a sign inviting passers-by to speak into the microphone to record what they are thankful for. We participate in the Ocala First Friday Artwalk regularly and play the accordion and the mandolin providing ambience music. This is a short podcast and somewhat experimental. The reaction we received was very positive and people had fun with the idea. Since this was part of an artwalk we decided that our "live" microphone could be categorized as "Interactive Art." Thank you to everyone who participated!2020-11-0711 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnOld Florida Cracker Craft Show and Thanksgiving FestivalIn this podcast we drove to Anthony, Florida, and attended the Old Florida Cracker Craft Show and Thanksgiving Festival. It was held on Halloween Day 2020 at Harbison Farm Cattle & Produce and FARM MARKET. This was their fifth year hosting the event. Historic History and Culture were added to show how people lived and celebrated Thanksgiving in the 1800s. Lots of crafts, lots of food, lots of people in costume, along with entertainment and a farmer's market. 60% of the collected proceeds will go towards a building fund after a tornado destroyed it 3 months ago. 40% will go toward Harbison Farm Food Bank. 2020-10-3142 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnSugarloaf Mountain, Spook Hill, and Bok Tower GardensWe took a mini road trip to Sugarloaf Mountain near Clermont, Florida to walk from the top to the bottom and then back up again. It may be a small mountain or, in fact, just a hill, but it was a challenge to US! Afterwards, we drove to Lake Wales and visited Spook Hill and the Bok Tower Gardens. 2020-10-2538 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnPlein Air Painting at Bill Frederick ParkWe drove to Orlando with the hopes of seeing some Dragon Boat races on Turkey Lake. However, because of Covid 19, the races were cancelled. We had also planned to do some plein air painting while we were there so we found a scenic spot near the lake and spent much of the afternoon painting and drawing the landscape before us. Beautiful, fun, and very relaxing.2020-10-1820 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnBicycling On Amelia IslandOn October 10, 2020 we drove 148 miles to Amelia Island, Florida, and rode our bicycles 14 miles which included a stop across the sand dunes where we sat on the beach for a moment.2020-10-1115 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnOur October 2020 Camping Road TripWe went camping! In this podcast we captured audio from our road trip in early October 2020. We visited the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in White Springs, Florida, Fort Mountain State Park in North Georgia, the city of Helen, Georgia, and then an overnight stay at Reed Bingham State Park near Valdosta, Georgia. Special guest appearances on this podcast from Robin's brother, Jim Peronto and their Mom, Beverly.2020-10-0852 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnRough Surf At DaytonaHurricane Teddy brought rough surf to Florida's Atlantic Coast and we spent the day enjoying walking in the rough surf and in the heavy winds. The storm was not directly hitting the Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach area but the effects of the storm were still definitely being felt. Today we have a guest appearance by Beverly Serridge, who is Robin's Mom.2020-09-2316 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnWest Orange Trail Bicycle TripWe rode our bicycles on the West Orange Trail from Apopka, near the Florida Turnpike, to Winter Garden. A short bike ride for most seasoned bicyclists but it was just under 10 miles which is a lot for us! (By the way, on this podcast, we say we went 13 miles but, we just checked, and 9.4 miles is more accurate.) Anyway, it is a beautiful bike ride! Another correction: The starting point is WEST of the Florida Turnpike (well, actually it is South, but the Turnpike is considered a North/South running road) on Highway 50.2020-09-2022 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnFort Wilderness CampingFor the weekend of Robin's birthday, we decided to go camping at Disney World's Camp Wilderness Campground. It was only a one night stay but it was fun. It rained but the rain actually added to the fun.2020-09-1433 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnOcala's First First Friday Artwalk Since Covid-19Ocala's First Friday Artwalk is a favorite monthly event but, because of Covid-19, the event has been cancelled every month since February 2020. So, September's Artwalk was a much anticipated comeback. BUT THEN, inclement weather caused the event to be moved from the normal sidewalk locations to a covered area. In this podcast we speak to the organizers and to some of the participants of Ocala's First Friday Artwalk.2020-09-0522 min
The World Spins Fine On Her OwnFlorida Kids Helping Kids Motorcycle RunFlorida Kids Helping Kids had a big boost to their efforts when the motorcycle club, Brick City Punishers, volunteered to hold a rally to benefit the children.2020-08-3041 min
The World Spins Fine On Her OwnConnie Mann InterviewThis is our interview with author and Captain Connie Mann. Connie spoke to us about her new book, "Beyond Power," which is Book 2 in the Florida Wildlife Warriors series. We also spoke to Connie about her "other" life as a boat captain and her work at Silver Springs State Park.2020-08-2736 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnTropical Breeze CasinoWe went on the Tropical Breeze Casino boat and had a great time. The boat began its journey at Port Richie on Florida's west coast and sailed 9 miles into international waters. At that location it is legal to gamble, so we did. This was a very fun outing for us and the folks who ran the boat were wonderful. We even managed to get a brief interview with the singer and entertainer, Edrease.2020-08-2324 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnThe Cade Museum of Creativity and InventionIn this episode we visit The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention in Gainesville, Florida. The Cade Museum is named for Dr. James Robert Cade, a professor of renal (kidney) medicine at the University of Florida and the lead inventor of the sports drink Gatorade. On the title page of his autobiography, Freut Euch Des Lebens (Take Joy in Life) Cade described himself as a "physician, scientist, musician, and inventor." At the time of his death in 2007, Cade had a collection of over 30 violins, (some of them dating to the 17th century) and over 60 Studebaker carriages and automobiles from...2020-08-1638 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnOur Road Trip To Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens and Suwannee FloridaWe took a road trip today to Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens in Williston, Florida, and then drove to the town of Suwannee, Florida where the Suwannee River empties into the Gulf Of Mexico. It was a beautiful day and, hopefully, this podcast captures much of the joy we experienced. Hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed making this.2020-08-0920 minThe World Spins Fine On Her OwnThe World Spins Fine On Her Own - Episode OneThis is the first episode of a new podcast for us. After we retired from a 34 year career as radio broadcasters in January we weren't sure if we wanted to get back into the daily grind of doing interviews. Doing a podcast seemed to be the right fit for us. We had done a podcast for children on Storybook Railroad but we wanted something that we could do that would reach out to the many authors, musicians, and other creative people we have become friends with over the years. So, welcome to The World Spins Fine On...2020-08-0120 min
Storybook RailroadThe Day The Crayons Came HomeIn this podcast we talk about the delightful book "The Day The Crayons Came Home" written by Drew Daywalt and illustrated by Oliver Jeffers. Daywalt and Jeffers are also the creators of "The Day The Crayons Quit." This is a fun book that is chock full of creative and humorous ideas. Your children will never look at their crayons the same ever again.2020-06-2400 minStorybook RailroadOcala's 4th Annual Horse Capital ParadeOcala and Marion County, Florida, are known as the "Horse Capital of The World" and in today's podcast we visited an event celebrating the horse industry. There are so many things that horses are amazing at beyond racing. For example, many horses are often utilized in therapy for children and veterans. We spoke to horse industry professionals including a Stagecoach Driver and an author who wrote a children's book about the dog that rides on top of the stagecoach with the driver.2020-03-0800 minStorybook RailroadSuperintendent's Literacy Festival Celebrate Reading 2020In this special 46 minute podcast we visit Marion County Florida's Literacy Festival celebrating the joy of reading. We speak with teachers, principals, students, parents, paraprofessionals, and reading advocates about the importance of instilling the love of reading to students of all ages.2020-03-0100 minStorybook RailroadThe Great Backyard Bird CountIn this episode of Storybook Railroad, we go bicycling in Ormond Beach, Florida, in Central Park and discover that we showed up on the same day as the Great Backyard Bird Count. This annual event is presented by Halifax River Audubon. They partnered with Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center to create this family event that features bird walks, games, crafts, exhibits and more. All while documenting the birds in the park and entering observations into a global database. For more information, contact Joan at members@halifaxriveras.org2020-02-1600 min
Storybook RailroadDoggy Dog WorldMary Ann's dog, Rudy, learns an important lesson about not judging others and about being careful about feelings of revenge. This story is written by Larry Whitler and first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio program in the early 1990s. It is part of the anthology of stories included in the "Gift Of The Barking Frog" book by Robin MacBlane and Larry Whitler. The bonus song included after the story was originally broadcast with this story.2019-05-3123 minStorybook RailroadMemoriesFour children have a school assignment to research history and present their discoveries to the class. At first they go to the library to decide what historical event they would focus on. Then, when they bump into the grandfather of one of the children, they realize that history may be closer than they realize. In fact it is right in their own attic! Written by Robin MacBlane, "Memories" first appeared in the early 1990s on the Robin And The Giant radio program and can be read in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2019-05-0213 minStorybook RailroadThe Mystery Of The Missing BirdsJohnathan and Wanda know that the birds fly south in the winter. But, what they don't know, is where, exactly, the birds fly to. In this story the two children take their inquisitive minds and use some good old fashioned library research to try to uncover the answer to this perplexing question. Written by Larry Whitler, "The Mystery Of The Missing Birds" first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s and can be found in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2019-04-2626 minStorybook RailroadShastaShannon loved playing make-believe with her toy Pegasus that she named Shasta. Her imagination enabled Shannon to pretend to fly on the winged horse, play with the birds, and even chase away the evil hunters. But, in real life, Shannon's true dream was to own a horse of her own. A real horse. In this story, written by Robin MacBlane, every young girl's dream is expressed as Shannon and Shasta take us all on a beautiful trip filled with love and fantasy.2019-04-1817 minStorybook RailroadA Jelly Jar Mint of Belly Button LintSometimes it takes the mind of a child to show us all which things are really valuable. In "A Jelly Jar Mint of Belly Button Lint" three little children show the rest of us that nothing is worth more than spending time with someone we love. Written by Larry Whitler, this story first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s and is found in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2019-04-0415 minStorybook RailroadField TripField Trip, written by Robin MacBlane, was one of the most popular stories that we did in the early 1990s on our old radio program Robin And The Giant. It tells a simple tale that every school child, and former school child, remembers with fondness. The original broadcast of this story included the song, "Field Trip," also recorded and written by Robin And The Giant. The story can now be found in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2019-03-2810 minStorybook RailroadBobby And Fluff PupThis is a story about a puppy, a six year old boy, and a Dad. They all are learning from one another as they each have to face the consequences of their own mistakes. Written by Larry Whitler, Bobby And Fluff Pup was first heard on the Robin And The Giant radio program in the early 1990s. It is also found in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2019-03-2118 minStorybook RailroadSadieA young girl, named Sadie, doesn't feel as beautiful as she feels her older sister is. Even though she is truly beautiful on the inside, Sadie wants to be beautiful on the outside, too. The lesson Sadie learns about the true beauty that is already within her is learned with the help of the costume lady from a local theatrical group. This story is written by Robin MacBlane and was first made public on the Robin And The Giant radio program in the early 1990s. The story is also found in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2019-03-1520 minStorybook RailroadA Dancer DancesMary was a dancer but she didn't believe in herself. Her friend, Harold, however, completely believed in her. It took a while but Harold finally convinced Mary to audition for a major dancing job at a show in New York City. This is a story about confidence and friendship. It is a story about believing in oneself and pursuing one's dreams. Written by Larry Whitler in the early 1990s, "A Dancer Dances" originally appeared on the old Robin And The Giant radio program and can be found in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2019-03-0121 minStorybook RailroadThe Tales Of The RailWhen one of the new students in Mrs. Bryant's sixth grade class told some incredible stories to the other students, about his life and his family, his classmates felt inferior and less accomplished. Mrs. Bryant noticed that the fibs the new student was telling were making the other students feel unimportant. Since it would be wrong to call the new student a liar, Mrs. Bryant had a better idea! Written by Robin MacBlane, this story first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s.2019-01-2415 minStorybook RailroadThe Scariest Spell Of Pajama Top HillJoe Gurney lived a long and lonely life in the days when everybody was scurrying in the wild west to find gold. But Joe was different and never cared much for gold. In fact, Joe Gurney was most interested in why people spent so much time searching for gold. When Joe Gurney died the people of Cowtown found themselves victim to their own obsessions and the ghost of Joe Gurney made this perfectly clear. Written by Larry Whitler, this story first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s.2019-01-1617 minStorybook RailroadThe Historical AdventureTwo friends visit the Museum Of Natural History and take a ride into the distant, and not so distant, past. Their travels through time reveal the ways that humans have had an affect on the environment. The two children also learn how the lessons learned from those past mistakes have helped humanity realize that we need to be better stewards of the earth. Written by Robin MacBlane, this story first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s. It is published in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2019-01-1117 minStorybook RailroadGibsonton Circus Field TripIn this bonus episode of Storybook Railroad, we visited the Gibsonton International Independent Showmen's Club Circus in Riverview, Florida. The circus is a fundraiser to benefit local charities. Everything was done by volunteers! All of the performers, musicians, clowns, box office workers, animal handlers, and even the owners and installers of the tent and seating volunteered their time and talents to bring this circus to the people. We are joined by Robin's mother, Beverly, Robin's daughter, Shannon, and Shannon's young friend, Gabby. Also, Robin's brother, James Peronto, is the drummer in the band. 2019-01-0612 minStorybook RailroadThe Dog With The Unbelievable TaleA young homeless puppy stumbles upon the home of an older and much more affluent dog. The friendship seems unlikely to the younger pup but the older, and wiser, dog knows the importance of being patient and gentle. In the end, it is love that levels the playing field. Written by Larry Whitler (The Giant) this story first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s. The song that follows the story is called "Winds Of Change" and accompanied this story in the original broadcast. 2019-01-0420 minStorybook RailroadThe Star GazersNine year old Amanda gets to spend some time at an observatory with her Uncle Jack, who is a scientist. Together they explore the night sky through the lens of a telescope. In the process, Amanda learns about the planets in our solar system and Jack learns to make believe as the two of them pretend to spot a fleet of menacing flying saucers. This story was written by Robin MacBlane and first appeared on the old Robin And The Giant radio program in the early 1990s. The story is also published in the book, "The Gift Of The...2018-12-3014 minStorybook RailroadEffortless FlightFourth grade classmates Kathryn and William were going to fly kites with William's father at a nearby park. William had his kite for two years but this would be the first time flying it because his Dad always had to work. But this was his father's day off and today would finally be the day they would get to fly the kite. But when the phone rings, and it is William's father's boss asking him to come in to work, William and Kathryn are worried that their trip to the park might be cancelled.2018-12-2110 minStorybook RailroadThe Magic Of The ClownsA make-believe circus is coming to school and the children in attendance learn an important lesson about how everyone makes a big difference in the lives of the others around them. Written by Robin MacBlane, this story first was broadcast on the old Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s. It also appears in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2018-12-1413 minStorybook RailroadLa-La-LandMrs. Christopher's 3rd Grade Class was going on a field trip to an amusement park called La-La-Land. It was young Evan's first time going to La-La-Land and his mother told him it would be fun and educational. But the lessons he learned from this field trip were from the conversations he heard from his classmates. One was concerned about being a know-it-all, another was speaking condescendingly about everything, and another was more interested in how expensive the souvenirs were. Written by Larry Whitler, this story first appeared on the Robin And The Giant Radio Show in the early 1990s...2018-12-0716 minStorybook RailroadSchool Lunch Vs. Lunch From HomeAs a writing assignment at school, four children write a skit for the school stage that portrays a mock boxing match pitting school lunch against lunch from home. The children in the audience love the presentation and, in the end, the story shows that both lunch options can be healthy if the right foods are chosen. Written by Robin MacBlane, this story first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s. It also is published in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2018-11-3014 minStorybook RailroadWonder SoundsEric and Susan, ten and eight years old respectively, along with their mother, visit their great-grandfather in the nursing home. Great-Grandfather was a songwriter in his younger days. The children bring gifts to their Great-Grandpa that represent his love of music. But it isn't until the children learn that hit group, The Razors, recorded one of Great-Grandpas old songs do they really become excited about the musical legacy their great-grandfather is leaving behind.2018-11-2316 minStorybook RailroadLight Up Ocala 2018In this bonus episode of Storybook Railroad, we showcase the event that kicks off the holiday season in Ocala, Florida. It is called "Light Up Ocala." 2018 marked the 35th anniversary of this annual downtown party. In this podcast you'll hear us talk about some of the places we visited during that event including the pinnacle of the event which is when city officials lead a count-down and the lights are switched on for the season. We also took a walk down to Tuscawilla Park to see the skating rink and, along the way, met two musicians, Ted and Lulu...2018-11-1819 minStorybook RailroadPowerhouse GymA popular television physical fitness program has come to Randy and Max's elementary school. The children are all very excited about the program and about meeting the stars of the show, Galaxy and Jade. Randy is especially excited because he loves everything about sports and physical challenges. Max doesn't feel quite as excited as his friend because he is more interested in art. But when Galaxy has a heartfelt talk with Max about embracing his special talents, Max feels the much needed sense of acceptance he had been longing for. 2018-11-1615 minStorybook RailroadOcali Country Days - Florida HistoryOn this bonus episode we take a field trip to the Silver Springs State Park for a very popular event called Ocali Country Days. We spoke to several guests including author and boat Captain Connie Mann, and National Geographic Photographer Mark Emery. In this podcast we also speak to several participants in Ocali Days who taught us a lot about life in the 1800s, the importance of protecting the environment, and even heard a cannon.2018-11-1119 minStorybook RailroadSal's Secret Spice RackWhen Sal and his son, Anthony, discover that they have no more of Grandpa's secret pizza spices, they decide to create their own recipe. As they experiment with the ingredients Sal tells Anthony that the family has been hounding him to create a franchise of his restaurant. He explains, however, that he really would prefer to live a simpler life and just have the one restaurant. In the process Sal teaches Anthony more than the secret recipe to a great pizza, he teaches him the recipe to a happy life.2018-11-0914 minStorybook RailroadThe Flutterby WorldA young girl named Amy lives in a rural home with her family. She loves the country life but is also intrigued by the city. So whenever her mother has to go downtown she rides along. Impressed by the large buildings and the hustle and bustle of the busy streets her visits into the city with her mother are always an adventure. But the one thing that concerns Amy is that all the people seem to be in such a hurry and, in the end, she is happy that her family lives in the country. Written by Robin MacBlane...2018-11-0216 minStorybook RailroadGiraffes In The ParkMr. Grimm loves playing his tuba for the giraffes at the zoo. He is a volunteer at the zoo and one day, after playing his tuba, he discovers that someone has stolen it. Mr. Grimm learns that it is being used by the zoo superintendent to get an elephant into a truck. But he is not very nice about it and Mr. Grimm becomes very angry. Written by Larry Whitler, this was first broadcast in the early 1990s on the Robin And The Giant radio show and is published in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2018-10-2619 minStorybook RailroadThe Florida Bat FestivalThis is a bonus podcast. Instead of a story, today we visit the Lubee Bat Conservancy in Gainesville, Florida. It was the day of the Florida Bat Festival and it was a fun event to attend. There were, of course, BATS!! Lots and lots of bats! Big bats, small bats, bats that eat bugs, bats that eat fruit, and lots of information about how bats live. In this podcast we spoke to Brian Pope, the Director of the Lubee Bat Conservancy, as well as Tracy Pope, Mary Smith, and Amanda Ramage. Note: We also spoke to a young lady...2018-10-2114 minStorybook RailroadThe Fantasy Of The MindA girl and a boy, named Millicent and Daniel, spend the day at the beach and let their imaginations take them away to an adventure on the seas with a ship of pirates. The vivid images the children envision in their minds make the imagined experience feel very real until Millicent's mother and Daniel's brother break them from their fantasy. This story is written by Robin MacBlane and was first featured on the old Robin And The Giant radio program in the early 1990s. Since then it has been in the book, "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2018-10-2017 min
Storybook RailroadRobin And The Giant Halloween SpecialWe originally recorded our Halloween Special in the summer of 2007. For that special we wrote and produced stories and songs and, of course, our signature dialogue. In this podcast we feature three of the stories and songs from our Halloween collection titled, "It's Only Pretend." In addition to simply wanting a fun recording we also wanted to show our young listeners that the scary stuff on Halloween is only pretend.2018-10-1321 minStorybook RailroadAmateur GardenerA king is very protective about the role he plays in his kingdom and refuses to let anyone learn his skills. But when he learns of his brother's illness, and is reminded of his own mortality, the king becomes very stressed. After falling asleep, the king dreams that he is an amateur gardener who is being unfairly reprimanded by his elders for his inexperience. From this the king learns the importance of giving young people a chance to learn life skills. This story, written by Larry Whitler, was first broadcast on the Robin And The Giant radio show in...2018-10-1115 minStorybook RailroadAunt Tilda And MeTwin boys learn about their grandfather's childhood and discover that time is precious and life is short. This story has a melancholy element that serves to underscore the message. Written by Robin MacBlane, "Aunt Tilda And Me" first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio program in the early 1990s and can be found in printed form in the book titled, "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2018-10-0514 minStorybook RailroadGainesville Community Band featuring James PerontoThis is a bonus podcast on Storybook Railroad that features our visit to Santa Fe College in Gainesville, Florida to listen to a concert by the Gainesville Community Band. Joining us is Robin's mother, Beverly. Our special guest is Robin's brother, James Peronto, who is the percussionist in the band. The concert title is The Charles Dean and William Dishman Memorial Trumpet Concert. The conductor is R. Gary Langford. We hope you enjoy this special podcast which features an interview with James Peronto, selections of R. Gary Langford's spoken presentation, and, of course, music from t...2018-10-0121 minStorybook RailroadSpace Taxi StevenA young boy named Steven imagines that when he grows up he will fly space-taxis taking passengers to the moon and back. His father, however, thinks it would be better if he would have more realistic and down-to-earth dreams for his future. But when Steven takes a bite of an apple and imagines that his apple wants to cry he cleverly illustrates for his father that all great changes began in somebody's imagination. 2018-09-2812 minStorybook RailroadTo Want Is Not To NeedA young girl named Andrea, out shopping with her mother, sees another young girl behaving poorly when she is told she can't have a stuffed toy animal that she wants. The resulting conversation between Andrea and her mother helps Andrea learn the difference between wanting something and needing something. This story is written by Robin MacBlane and first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s. The written version of this story also appears in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog." 2018-09-2209 minStorybook RailroadOur Visit To Walt Disney WorldIn this bonus episode of Storybook Railroad, we take a field trip and visit Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. We visited the park called "The Magic Kingdom" and then the area called "Disney Springs." In addition to some of the attractions at the park we also talk a bit about our memories of visits from years ago, especially when our own children were very young. Plus, we sample soda from around the world. 2018-09-1723 minStorybook RailroadSocrates JuniorA young boy with a very vivid imagination takes his bicycle for a ride to the park and imagines he is on a heroic mission to save a family trapped from the ruins of a bombing during World War II. In the process he makes some very philosophical observations about life. This story was written by Larry Whitler for the Robin And The Giant radio show in the early 1990s and appears in the book, "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2018-09-0621 minStorybook RailroadAngelinaA young girl named Angelina looks enviously at the bigger and more expensive homes on the other side of a concrete wall in her neighborhood and she wishes she had been born into a family with more money. Then, while swinging on the swings in the public playground, she falls and hits her head. Upon awakening, she realizes that she is a rich girl. Or is it just a dream? "Angelina" is written by Robin MacBlane and first appeared on the Robin And The Giant radio program in the early 1990s. The story can be found in...2018-08-3114 minStorybook RailroadThe Kite Tail WishRobin And The Giant had heard an old legend that claimed a wish would come true if it was written on the tail of a kite and that kite was flown high into the clouds. Robin wished she had a dog and so Robin and The Giant wrote Robin's wish on the tail of a pink paisley kite and brought it to the park to fly it. But there isn't much wind and it looks like the wish for a dog won't come true. Or will it?2018-08-2410 min
Storybook RailroadSt. John's Rivership CruiseIn this bonus episode of Storybook Railroad, we take a cruise on the St. John's River in Florida aboard a paddleboat from the St. John's Rivership. Robin's mother, Beverly, joined us for this adventure. The trip was about three hours long and included lunch and a snack. This was a wonderful experience! We hope you enjoy our podcast as much as we enjoyed our cruise!2018-08-1913 minStorybook RailroadThe Totally Informed ManIn "The Totally Informed Man," two fourth graders, Sally and Trudeaux, have a class assignment to do research on Cleopatra's secrets. But when they exhaust all their resources, the two friends have an idea to go ask the only man they know knows everything: "The Totally Informed Man." This story is written by Larry Whitler and originally appeared on the Robin And The Giant Radio Show in the early 1990s. It is found in the book "The Gift Of The Barking Frog" by Robin MacBlane and Larry Whitler (also known as Robin And The Giant).2018-08-1713 minStorybook RailroadThe Kingdom Of The Read KingA wise king travels the world to show people how to live and work together by sharing their gifts and talents. This story underscores the importance of reading. It is written by Robin MacBlane and appears in the book, "The Gift Of The Barking Frog."2018-08-1120 min
Daniel B. BotkinRadio Interview on AM Ocala Live!Why is my book called “The Moon in the Nautilus Shell” and why do I write about the “Discordant Harmonies” of nature? In the radio interview I did with Robin MacBlane and Larry Whitler on “AM Ocala Live!” I got a chance to explain these. It led to a discussion about why music and its […]2013-02-2327 min