What's In A Name?

In a previous blog, I shared the name of my new EP: Dogwood Tree. It was lovingly named after the state tree and flower of Virginia - the place where my roots in both family and faith run deep. These are the central themes woven into these story songs. I'm excited to be releasing them to you one at a time through January 2025!

When I was growing up, we had the most beautiful dogwood in the front yard that bloomed with pink blossoms every Spring.  The petals gave way to vibrant green leaves in the Summer. In the Fall, the Dogwood's leaves turned bright red before they fell. What an example of flourishing beautifully in every season - on of the many things I learned not just from the Dogwood, but about how to live from watching my grandparents.

Another good reason for the Dogwood to be the namesake of this project is the legend that their flowers represents the cross of Christ. Each of the four petals has red marks and indents like nail piercings. At the center, the flower is adorned with clusters similar to a crown of thorns. Having lost all three of my grandparents, I now find immeasurable comfort that I will see them again because they put their faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus. Another fitting reason for me to love the symbolism of the Dogwood!

My next single "Leaves In October" is a tribute to my maternal grandmother whose birthday fell in that month. "Love won't ever fade away when it's in your blood and family name. It'll never change like leaves in October." It's about the letting go that comes with grief, but the holding on to the love that you get to keep. You'll be able to find it on your favorite music platform on Tuesday, October 15!

One other piece of exciting news before I let you go. You are cordially invited to join me at the Historic RCA Victor Building on Music Row in Nashville from the comfort of your home on Sunday, October 20 for a very special live-stream concert! Tune in to hear the new songs LIVE and the stories behind them. I'm so excited that I get to do it from such an iconic location! Visit the "events" page on my website and alllll the way down to get your ticket. Space is limited to keep it intimate, so get yours before they're gone!