As a young child, I would swing for hours on our swing set in the backyard. As I glided back and forth, I would observe my father working in his organic garden doing what he loved best, cultivating the land to grow gorgeous, healthy vegetables.

Songs would constantly float into my head as I swooshed back and forth into the sunset; I would blend into the evening at peace with God’s arms embracing me in the darkness. The melodies would float away into the twilight, but new ones would always find me again, night after night.

To this day whenever I am roaming the woods, songs still rush into my being as the spirit seems to always reach me when out in nature. Now I record what I feel as I wander. At home, on the piano I begin to notate the music and explore the harmonies that fit the mood of the piece.

Many of these songs were written during my years teaching at the Community School of Davidson; the students’ joy in learning was such a catalyst for my song writing. Others were inspired by the sermons of Dr. James Howell and Dr. Jody Seymour, both previous pastors of Davidson United Methodist Church.

Many of my songs about the universe were written shortly after my dad passed away. They flowed so easily into my soul as I hiked through the woods thinking of my dear father. I ended up incorporating these songs into a musical, “It Takes the Sun, Moon and Stars”, written in his memory.

I feel that my songs embody a child-like wonder of the universe from the majestic tree, the gentlest breeze, the baby bunny running free, the twinkling stars gazing down at me..... the list is infinite.

I hope this songbook will inspire all ages from 0–100+ to stop and feel God’s beauty, goodness, and love as you journey through the mystery of life