I smile as I recall moments of family song with our three kids – so long ago (20 years now!) when they were 6, 10 and 13. Oh, I know – many of you know the three of them in their current states: as young adults, pursuing professions and raising their own little ones. BUT my own memories of them are sweet and vivid, not only of Morgan’s bright eyes, eager to please – or Casey’s cute dimple of spicy individualism – or TJ’s jaunty certainty that, “Boy’s are AMAZING!” Beyond all that, I remember their clear voices and the great joy we all 5 experienced as we sang together in “lock-step” blend and enthusiasm. I have to admit that one reason I still remember it so vividly is that we chose to capture the sound in a recording. It has become a audio family album for us to revisit. I particularly love hearing that clear soprano boy’s voice – in light of TJ’s contrasting deep bass in his mid-twenties. Can I share it? Keep listening – TJ’s solo is short, at about the 1:50 point in this recording.

We sang this song as a part of learning about the Caribbean, just before traveling along with Brad’s choir to the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Some of you were with us! We made this Larry Farrow arrangement (Fred Bock Music) our own when Brad played percussion on the “instruments” at hand – cheese grater and whisk!

Those days are past now – and the young childhood antics of that season a memory. But the MUSIC shaped each of us. Even now, when we gather from several states, our kids want to take part of our very short time together to sing!

During this time of CV-19 limitations, it is easy to focus on what we are missing – but don’t forget to embrace the opportunities you have, to sing with those who are “trapped” together at your house. Start simple – our own singing began 10 years before this recording was made, with nightly songs before bedtime. It could be a tool to lift your spirits, break up long days and develop a sense of family unity. What a gift!

I look forward to sharing ideas and suggestions for families to try during this season of TOGETHERNESS. 🙂 Stay tuned for more musings!