I grew up in the Ozarks of Arkansas. I remember playing ‘musics’ in the front yards or on the front porches of my family. My pastimes were playing guitar, walking through the hills, hollers, creeks, and meadows around our home. I believed in God ever since I can remember. I attribute my faith in part to living with and being able to explore the beauty of His handiwork.

I have been a construction worker, retail manager, pastor, real estate investor, businessman, and science teacher. But I have always been a songwriter, and to a lesser degree, a singer and musician. Many songs He has given me are for worshiping and celebrating Him. Samples of these are on the album, “Behind The Veil.”

But others are from my memories and life. I have always loved dogs, but I thought I was through with owning one. I lost so many through the years to accidents, sickness, or just old age. If you have had one, then you know the pain. One day my son, Grant, introduced us to a puppy he helped rescue for adoption. My wife said, “That’s your dog. You need to go get him.” And that’s how I came to have Odin, and he came to have me-and my heart. He is, by far, the smartest and dearest dog I’ve ever had. He figures into some of the songs on “The Hills of Arkansas.” The others come from stories and memories of growing up in simpler times.

The love of my life is my wife, Donna. She remains my most unflagging support and biggest fan. She is very private and uncomfortable with public attention, but she has encouraged me for years to record some of these songs. Without her, I would be content to sit in my study and sing to myself.

I hope you find some comfort, joy, pleasure, and blessing while listening to the music God has given me. If it blesses you, it’s a gift from Him. If it doesn’t, I’m sure somehow my humanity got in the way. It is my mission to write and share. It is up to Him where it goes and who it touches.