Muley's Annual Report for First Congo December 2021

 

Christmas Eve 2021 Muley's Kids Congo Message

Christmas Eve (December 24, 2021) services found Muley the Mule delivering one of his Kids Congo messages. Telling the Christmas Story using the titles of Christmas carols, Muley tied in his previous two messages about wanting more for others, hence gifts for Baby Jesus and babies today.

Photos by Steve Garcia

www.muleythemule.com Muley the Mule assisted by Kevin Williams

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE. Intro Music “Eye Laugh” by David Fesliyan Studios www.fesliyanstudios.com

Muley Reads: Donkey Daniel in Bethlehem

 Of course, we just have to wonder how many donkeys Mary rode to Bethlehem because there are a LOT of books about this story, all focusing on the donkey!  For a Merry Christmas, Muley reads about a trip to Bethlehem and the First Nowell. What are your Christmas wishes?

Muley the Mule assisted by Kevin L. Williams

Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan. Muley Reads is a series of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages! And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship. Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book. "Reading is fundamental!" Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!" Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!!

Kids Congo Christmas Pageant 2021

From the Congo Kids, a pageant held at www.firstcongo.com on December 19, 2021, in which Muley the Mule gets to play an inn keeper. While it's supposed to be non-rehearsed, Muley worked for 4 hours to come up with the line, "No room at the inn, but I have a manger on Air BnB in the stable that the horses are CRAZY about!" Yay, or neigh? I think he should have worked at least one more hour on that gag. The Kids Congo is a 'place for everyone,' to come and learn and share the gifts of light, love, and happiness - and HOPE! - with one another and others.

www.muleythemule.com Muley the Mule assisted by Kevin Williams Intro Music “Eye Laugh” by David Fesliyan Studios www.fesliyanstudios.com

Kids Congo: Muley Message "Pure Imagination"

 Happy All Holidays to EVERYONE!!

On December 12, 2021, Muley the Mule and Friends visited First Congregational Church of Memphis to share a program and song dedicated to using your "pure imagination" to make the world a better place for everyone!  

First Congo meets each Sunday morning in person and online at 10:30 am Central Time.  

CAST

Narrator: Anakin Wade
Buford the Dog assisted by Martheus Wade
Missy Mule assisted by Janet Wade
Roy Duck assisted by DaMarco Randle
Muleton Mule, Jr. assisted by Kevin L. Williams

www.toshigawauniverse.com
www.firstcongo.com

MUSIC

Intro Music “Eye Laugh”
by
David Fesliyan Studios
www.fesliyanstudios.com

"Pure Imagination"
by
Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley
from
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical

"Siyahamba"
A South African Zulu Hymn
Performed by First Congo Choir

Pianist
Jason Eschhofen

Drums
Chris Burgess

Musical Direction
Tammy Holt and Elicia Curry

PHOTOGRAPHY/SOUND
by
First Congregational Media Team

EDUCATIONAL ADVISOR
Steve Garcia

WRITTEN, PRODUCED, DIRECTED
by
Kevin L. Williams

Muley's Kids' Messages at First Congo

Lots of people are interested in hearing what Muley the Mule is going to talk about.  You can find him on the dates below at First Congo.  In person at 1000 S Cooper Street, Memphis, TN 38104, or online at www.firstcongo.com at 10:30 AM!

If you'd like to read some earlier messages, find the first year (or so) worth in this book by clicking here.  The book includes photos, art, and the messages.

2022 Kids Message Schedule

January 9

February 13

March 13

April 10

May 8

June 12

July 10

August 14

September 11

October 9

November 13

December 11

Muley Reads: Raggedy Ann's Cooking School

Ever made plans that didn't go through? That's what happens when Raggedy Ann hopes to open a Cooking School. How does she and Raggedy Andy save the day?

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Muley the Mule assisted by Kevin L. Williams
Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Muley Reads is a series of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages!  And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship.  Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book.

"Reading is fundamental!"  Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!"

Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!! 

Muley Reads: Little Donkey

 Ever feel like you're big enough to do something, only to learn that you're really not?  Guess what: THAT'S OK!  Even if you're not very big right now, one day you WILL be - and then you get a chance to help people smaller than you.  As a matter of fact, even now you can probably help someone smaller than you are, so why not do that thing?  

After we read the book "Little Donkey," of course!

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Muley the Mule assisted by Kevin L. Williams
Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Muley Reads is a series of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages!  And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship.  Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book.

"Reading is fundamental!"  Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!"

Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!!

Muley Reads: The Lorax

On this day of his birthday I'm reminded that one of the important things that I learned while being entertained by Jim Henson's work is environmentalism.  Take care of the land, the air, and the sea; watch after the animals; keep the water clean.  All of these things take care of us as long as we take care of it!

Studies have shown that we are nearing a point of 'no return' in caring for the environment.  People will state that it isn't so - but, it is.  The number of natural disasters that happen are more frequent now than in the past (and that's not mentioning the past before they kept regular data - recent past, in your lifetime and mine).  Seasons have shifted: Memphis, for example, gets most of its winter in February and not in November and December (I'm not even sure there has been a snowy 'white Christmas' since I was a kid).  

Don't litter, as discussed in Muley Reads: Litterbugs Come in Every Size. If you see trash, pick it up (safely) and throw it away.  If you have trash, keep it until you get to a trashcan.
Don't put oils or grease in your drains or sewers, especially talk against companies dumping pollution in the rivers.
Animal care is very easy.  Air quality - have your vehicle checked and tuned up regularly (or bike!).

When we have a chance to talk about the environment, we should.  We should talk to kids about it, because our children are the ones who will inherit the earth.  Let's give them something to be proud of!

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Muley the Mule assisted by Kevin L. Williams
Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Muley Reads is a series of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages!  And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship.  Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book.

"Reading is fundamental!"  Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!"

Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!!

Muley the Mule and Friends:

There are two types of kids: Bullies and Friends. Which one are you?

Inside all of us is a very STRONG power, we all have this power, and that is love. It is friendship. It is being there for others, doing everything kind that you can for those around you, and empowering yourself while you empower others!

YOU HAVE POWER INSIDE OF YOU TO DO GOOD!

Be who you are meant to be: be a HERO!!

www.muleythemule.com www.hthmemphis.org www.damarcoarts.com www.toshigawauniverse.com Music is Silly Chicken by David Fesliyan https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/ Natasha Clay Hill as Herself Roy Duck assisted by DaMarco Randle Muley the Mule assisted by Kevin L. Williams

Muley Reads: Daniel's Good Day

Daniel knows everyone in the neighborhood, and on his way to grandma's and back home learns what makes other people's days great for them. What makes a good day for you? What do YOU love to see happen to make it a great day?

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Muley Reads is a series of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages!  And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship.  Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book.

"Reading is fundamental!"  Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!"

Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!! 

Muley the Mule and Friends: Depression

It's OK to NOT be OK!

Buford the Dog happens to be walking through the theater when he happens on Joseph who seems down.

Muley explains how we can help our friends who are going through depression.

www.muleythemule.com www.hthmemphis.org www.toshigawauniverse.com Music is Silly Chicken by David Fesliyan https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/ Joseph performed by Samuel Mateo Seigel Muley the Mule & Buford the Dog assisted by Kevin L. Williams

Muley Reads: Green Eggs and Ham

 Ever had someone just bug you to death about trying something new?  What about a new food?  Here, Muley reads the classic story about just that in Dr. Seuss' "Green Eggs and Ham."

By the way, Muley promotes the book but "not the eating of eggs and ham - it could be someone I know!"

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Muley the Mule assisted by Kevin L. Williams
Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Muley Reads is a series of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages!  And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship.  Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book.

"Reading is fundamental!"  Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!"

Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!!

Muley the Mule and Friends discuss Self-Esteem

 Never let anyone tell you who you are supposed to be. You know in your heart and in your mind who you are supposed to be, the goodness that shines light and bright from within you, the talents you have that can help others as well as yourself...

No magazine, TV show, or other person should dictate how you look, act, or live - that's all in your heart. Be a hero, do good for others, and especially do good for yourself.

www.muleythemule.com www.hthmemphis.org www.toshigawauniverse.com Music is Silly Chicken by David Fesliyan https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/ Missy Mule assisted by Janet Wade Muley the Mule assisted by Kevin L. Williams

Muley's Kids Sermons: Holy Cow, It's Muley! (Issue 1)

 You can now own the 2011 kids' messages presented by Muley the Mule at First Congregational Church!  Including 24 pages of high quality full color photos and art, this easy to carry and read comic book style publication shares the biography of Kevin L. Williams' puppetry in church and an introduction by Pastor Cheryl Cornish.  It's a great addition to any collection, all based in a message of LOVE - for each other, for the planet, for the animals, and for YOU.

CLICK HERE to purchase!

Muley's Comix and Stories #1b

 You can now own Muley's Comix and Stories #1b! 

Join Muley the Mule and Friends on their misadventures!  Includes the stories: Muley's Worm, Sheriff Muley of Giddy-up Gulch, and Eddie Bubba's Baby Brother.  All 32 pages in full color, including a wrap-around cover.

Muley the Mule and Friends Comix and Stories has been described as a half-baked mix of the innocence of Peanuts and irreverence of The Muppets.

CLICK HERE to buy your copy today!

Muley Reads: When God Was A Little Girl

Join Muley the Mule as he reads David R. Weiss' multi award winning book, When God Was A Little Girl, with illustrations by Joan Hernandez Lindeman!

During a long car trip, Susanna asks her father to tell her a story.  He - and she - creates a story around Susanna, telling the story of creation as seen through the eyes of a little girl.  She sings, she paints a world with beautiful colors, and gives her masterpiece away.

What are your favorite colors?
What do YOU think God looks like?

What's your favorite thing to create?

Read along with Muley and see if you get any ideas, then let's revisit the questions above!

You can find more resources about this book if you CLICK HERE.

CLICK HERE for the official website.

CLICK HERE to buy the book.

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Muley Reads is a series of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages!  And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship.  Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book.

"Reading is fundamental!"  Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!"

Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!!

Muley Reads: The Little Engine That Could

Ever feel like you could never beat the odds? Same goes for Little Engine, until she thinks she can! Good motto for us to all have! If we think we can, we can!

Can you go CHOO CHOO when you hear the words train, tracks, or engine?
Can you spot all the different animals?
What jobs do the different engines have?
What do they all wish to get for the good boys and girls to have?

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Muley Reads is a series of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages!  And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship.  Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book.

"Reading is fundamental!"  Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!"

Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!! 

Muley Reads: Oscar's Half Birthday

Baby Oscar is only 6 months old, and nobody can stand to wait until the year passes so why not do a half-birthday!? Hey, who cares when you celebrate a birthday, as long as there's cake! While watching together, can you make the sounds you read about (the train, wind, cars, and more)? Can you sing along with everyone's birthday wish for Oscar? When is your birthday, and what do you hope to do to celebrate?

Muley Reads is a volume of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages! And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship. Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book.

Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan. "Reading is fundamental!" Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!" Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!! www.muleythemule.com 

www.muleyshow.com 

Muley Reads: When Aidan Became a Brother

With so many species of animals, the MuleyVerse has always been inclusive and appreciative of people because of their individualities and differences, the things that make them special! Mules, dogs, ducks, horses, donkeys, and cows - all friends!

This sweet #ownvoices picture book by Kyle Lukoff, almost autobiographical, celebrates the changes in a transgender boy's life, from his initial coming-out to becoming a big brother.

Muley Reads is a series of videos starring Muley the Mule reading some of his favorite books - and we hope some of yours - wishing to inspire a love of reading, learning, imagining, and creation in children of all ages! And, as always, we love the books that communicate about people, animals, environment, love, and friendship. Some of Muley's special friends may even pop in to request a book. Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan. "Reading is fundamental!" Books add the fun, Muley adds "da mental!" Grab your family together, grab a snack or two, and sit back to relax while Muley Reads!! www.muleythemule.com www.muleyshow.com

Lee & Low Publishers has a teacher's guide.

MuleyVerse Exhibit: Muley Through the Ages (2018) Re-cap

In 2018, Muley the Mule and Friends hosted a show produced by Joel Chapman called "The Congo Cabaret: That's Entertainment!" to raise money for the Food Ministry of First Congo of Memphis.  As part of the show, there was a display of MuleyVerse stuff.  Here is a re-cap of that exhibit with the descriptions from the cards you see in front of the exhibited pieces in the photos.

MULEY: THROUGH THE AGES EXHIBIT

Please check out this display of somewhat rare Muley memorabilia.

Then, look around behind it to the Food Pantry, which your ticket helps support tonight!

Inspired by friends and church family, the live "Muley and Friends Show" from conventions in years' past made a debut on television.  "Millionaire Magazines" explained how to help properly, while "Easter Eggheads" explained why not to eat all your candy at once, and also about the resurrection.

After many years of appearing at the Superman Celebration in Metropolis, IL, a decision was made to create an alter-ego for Muley, that of SuperMule!  The "M" logo is based on the shape of Muley's ears, while the suit is the reverse colors of Superman.  To great audience glee, "SuperMule and the Cookie Caper" made it's debut in Metropolis!

Muley is seen flying high above the Food Pantry in his SuperMule uniform, which is based on his personality: blue briefs, blue towel cape, red pajamas, and blue canvas sneakers. The uniform of all great crime fighters.

Muley version 2.5, body constructed circa 2000, an upgrade around 2002.  This version of Muley went along on a Carnival Cruise, and participated in Guest Talent Night singing "Soul Mule."  Also shown is the award he won!

ORIGINAL MULEY CAST

To coincide with his original creation date, the first Muley puppet was constructed on January 1, 1990, followed soon by Missy Mule in the same year.

Buford the Dog was originally created for a church puppet team, but was purchased and added to the MuleyVerse.  Here, you see the original, and Buford version 2.0.

In late 1979, Kevin L. Williams created a character that, on January 1, 1980, would be named Muley the Mule.  This page is the earliest (third) drawing of Muley.  In front is a Sculpey Muley statue made in 1989.

Fan art happens to be one of our greatest treasures.

A Christmas Ball by Angela Williams.

A Pez Dispenser by Lin Workman.

And a Muley Sketch Card by Missy Mule's Assistant, Janet Wade, and her son, Anakin!

Muley's original life was in comics.  Here, you see the cover of 2007's collection of "Muley's Comix and Stories"  This full color comic book collected over 30 comic strips and 3 comic stories, including Muley's biography.

Muley's pet charity is The Ronald McDonald House of Memphis.  He has not only helped host many fund-raising events over the years, but was named the "Official Spokes-Mule."  His certificate and an award are on display here, along with a photo taken at a charity art show.

On display here are the front and back covers of a coloring book based on another highly acclaimed show, "Muley's Talent(less) Revue," which featured his friends and other characters from the MuleyVerse of puppets in their quest to win the talent revue.  Nobody won.  It was a draw.

Over the years, Muley has had the opportunity to meet some heroes.  In 2008, Muley was invited to speak at the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, CA where he was able to meet Jeannie Schulz, wife of "Peanuts" creator, Charles Schulz.  (Oh, yeah, Kevin was there, too.)

Meeting other great heroes have been a huge joy for Muley.  In this photo, from September 2015, Muley is pictured with Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch performer, Carrol Spinney, and his wife Debra.  There was a brief conversation between Muley and the spirit-voice of Big Bird.  (Oh, yeah, Kevin was there, too.)

(Will post this photo when/if we find it...)

The Moanful Missy

By Mulinardo di Pinchy

Prismacolor on Black Construction Paper.

c. 1989

On Loan from the Loo Museum

Loo Loo, Skip to the Loo, My Darling.

The Art of the Process

This display exhibits the work that is done in the sequence prior to the creation of the final comic strip. The original note pad notes of the comic strip idea.  Pencils to work out the comic strip idea, and a sketch of Muley and Calvin Cow from behind. 

Below, the finished comic strip, ink on bristol.

Muley Reads: Harold and the Purple Crayon

Are you like me?  Hate to go to sleep until you finally fall asleep?  Sometimes, I read a book (duh!), and sometimes I lay there imagining what I could be doing instead of sleeping.  The first thought is:  I could be drawing!!

Well, that's just what Harold does!  He likes to draw with his purple crayon, and he allows his imagination to take him on a great adventure - instead of going to sleep, haha!

Grab your family and friends, grab a snack or three, and enjoy this edition of Muley Reads: Harold and the Purple Crayon!

Muley Reads is a volume of videos with Muley the Mule reading his favorite books. "Reading is Fundamental" and books bring the fun, Muley brings "da mental!" Let Muley share stories with you and your family to inspire conversation, thinking, and creativity!

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Ear, ye! Ear, ye! Muley and Missy Ears

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have ears like Muley the Mule or Missy Mule?

Now, you can find out!!

First, cut paper in long strips, about 1" wide.  Tape that together to create a head band that goes all the way around your head.

Next, print the attached pages (on 8.5" x 11" paper, landscape).  Color them for shadows, or color Missy's bows any color you want, and then cut the ears out.

Attach the ears to your headband!  It works best if you attach Muley's ears more toward the front, or Missy's to the sides.  Then, cut out the mane and tape them on the front center.

Here, you can see where the ears are on their heads...

Muley Reads: Sofia Valdez, Future Prez

 MULEY READS: Sofia Valdez, Future Prez!

When the neighborhood becomes a bit less than best for her friends and family, Sofia begins working for changes to help them all!  Learn that YOU TOO can make good changes for everyone in your neighborhood!

Muley Reads is a volume of videos with Muley the Mule reading his favorite books. "Reading is Fundamental" and books bring the fun, Muley brings "da mental!" Let Muley share stories with you and your family to inspire conversation, thinking, and creativity!

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day: 1/18/2021

 In honor of a true, great American!

Muley on the Manta (Sea World Orlando)

We've been living vicariously through YouTube visiting theme parks and rides, and pretending to go on those rides.  Now, Muley has taken the rides to the next level and REALLY pretended to be there.

This coaster video of Sea World's Manta (Orlando) is courtesy CoasterForce.com and their channel has all sorts of great coasters to watch.  Thanks to Jerry for letting us use the video.

Obviously, everything escalates because:
MULEY!!

Muley Reads: Oh, The Places You'll Go!

 What do you wish to achieve?  Will you make it?

Whenever we have goals set, there are always obstacles to stop us.  But, don't give up! 

What can you do that will achieve greatness for you and everyone?

Muley Reads is a volume of works where Muley the Mule reads favorite books to kids and their families hoping to inspire a love of reading and encourage creativity!  "Reading is Fundamental!"  Books bring the "fun" and Muley brings "da mental!"

Grab a snack or two, cuddle up with the family, and enjoy this edition of Muley Reads!

###

If you like this video, please donate to us by CLICKING HERE.

Music is Crazy Chicken by David Fesliyan.

Happy New Year 2021

 We all wish you and yours a very Happy New Year full of health, wealth, success, love, and joy!

Oh, and: 
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MULEY!!

Click play twice if video doesn't play.

We also want to share our New Year's/Muley's Bithday with you, followed by an inking session!

Inking that second, long panel and adding black to Missy's mane/hair-do. 

(Fun trick: The table cloth is actually a photo of a table under the art!!)