I know it's summer--but stories are good year round, aren't they? Here is a story that goes along with this month's topic of Germany. But it really has to do with the healing powers of beauty and art in our lives.

"Happiness is found only in El Dorado, which no one yet has been able to reach."

--Spanish Proverb

Well, he's better known as Davy Crockett. At least I hope your kids have heard of him! His motto was, "Be sure you're right--then go ahead!" He sacrificed his life at the Alamo. The final entry in his journal was: "Liberty and independence forever!"

Prescott is best known for bringing the conquering of Mexico and Peru to life, which is why I am including him in our Month 9 studies. But it's his conquering the adversity of his own life that is of most interest to me. Also, as a writer, he has a thing or two to teach us about this month's Mother's University topic.

I have posted a new audio book in mybelmonde.com--The Story of David Livingstone. In today's podcast I give you a brief introduction to this wonderful hero. By the way, when they are available, I provide pdfs of the illustration taken from these books that are formatted for notebooking. You will find the pdf link just below the title.

Just a heads up--this isn't a story for little children. I leave it to your judgment.

Here is an example of a man who stood firm in what he believed.

Illustration: The mobbing of Garrison in Boston

Today marks the 154th anniversary of the death of Lincoln. In today's podcast I take a lighthearted look at one facet of his personality.

And you will find a new audio book on Lincoln in mybelmonde.com.

A member of this group introduced me to a new great soul yesterday and I just had to learn more about him. Here is a little of what I found.

A little something for any of you who have daughters who hate to write--imagine if they weren't allowed to! And a little inspiration for moms.

I have been quoting Marden in the last several Facebook posts. If you have paid attention, you will have started to get a glimpse into this man's heart. He's a good friend to hang out with.