Roger Hutchison is an author, illustrator, and Christian educator in the Episcopal Church. He’s a two-time guest on our podcast, and we couldn’t think of a better fit for our end-of-year episode. Together we talk resolutions, words of the year, and what resolutions birds would make, if they made them.

Plus, we take a look at his just-about-to-be-released book, The Gift of Baptism. This beautiful children’s picture book took my breath away with its soulful writing and gorgeous illustrations by Claire Westwood.

Join us as we talk about finding hope even when *gestures broadly at everything.* Roger shares a bobcat story, how children are bearers and bringers of hope, and what sparrow-centric project he’s working on next.

Susanne Swing Thompson is the author of A Closer Look: The Neighborhood and the creative mind behind Wren Photos. Susanne is a big believer in the power and whimsy that can happen when we look more closely at our own backyards, streets, and local parks.

While birding can take us far afield - and this is fun! - when we tune into the birds, wildlife, and flora right on our own front steps, we can begin to find magic right where we are.

“I find myself wondering, ‘What is happening at home?’” said Susanne.

Join us for this episode as we look more closely at our own neighborhoods and encourage you to do the same.

If you’d like to subscribe to Susanne’s newsletter (I do; it’s lovely!), you may do so here.

Nashville-based author and illustrator Jessica Roux takes her inspiration from the natural world, folklore, and world religions.

In her beautiful book, Ornithography: An Illustrated Guide to Bird Lore, Jessica takes us on a journey into the mythology of different species of birds. Each avian description is partnered with a beautiful hand-drawn illustration, making this book great for anyone in need of a little more whimsy and beauty. (And isn’t that all of us?)

Join us for this episode of The Thing with Feathers as we talk about illustration, inspiration, and our mutual love of Flannery O’Connor. Plus: how to appreciate and celebrate the gift of birds, a gentle solution for outdoor cats, and what Jessica’s working on next.

To see more of Jessica’s beautiful illustrations, check out her work on Instagram.