The Song of Sweet Ayla Rae. Lyrics by Brianna Tittel set to the melody of The Old Therebefore by Maiah Wayne. La, la la la La la la la la laaa la la La la la. You came in the summer Brought beauty and wonder, two sides of a coin, the same. And the oak … Continue reading The Song of Sweet Ayla Rae

On the day you were born I held you, baby filling up my little arms. Grin so wide my jawline swelled, pride bursting through my cheeks. I couldn’t wait to tell the whole world that my baby sister, she’s pink as a whisper and gold as the summer's dawn. We’ll be lifelong friends. Cause this … Continue reading The Dream You have Become

He made you and formed you from the flecks of the earth, dust and divine together, pressing. And He chose her for you, and for you, God picked him. Together to live out His blessing. Each of you grew tall in wisdom and stature. But apart, never knowing the other. Until He said, “Now it’s … Continue reading The Wedding Blessing

A blessing for Mike Welcome, welcome wonderful boy. The earth is your playground, and you are it’s joy. Born under the June moon, will you pass the test? And illumine the way, whatever comes next? Boyhood brought bikes, bangs, and the rush. No mountain of dirt that you couldn’t crush. Manhood brought mountains, canyons, and … Continue reading Whatever Comes Next

Cold water beads on his nose. Bracing for the chill he dives in, arms like oars pulling him onward; his legs a propeller, beating steadily against the watery surface. A few strokes in and he comes up for air, turns his head, fills his lungs, and returns to the grind of the training session. They … Continue reading The Boy in the Pool