Canada
Ireland
Whilst on sabbatical in Pasadena, California, and Flagstaff, Arizona, Debbie explored an incredible variety of landscapes and local trails searching for inspiration.
- Huntingdon Estate with fabulous gardens from around the world
- The Getty Museum and gardens
- Griffiths Park
- Joshua Tree National Park, with its extraordinary trees, desert terrain, huge boulders, and mountain scenery
- Navajo Lands and the vast, expansive Grand Canyon
- Walnut Canyon and Manhattan Beach /Pacific Ocean
- Visits to The Getty Centre, Fuller Seminary, Lake Avenue Church, and the Grammy Museum.
“All these experiences opened up fresh imagination for me through the wonder of God’s diverse and astonishing creation.”
“This sense of awe and worship continued back in the UK, whilst considering the rich variety of life and environment present, perhaps most especially on the Northumbrian coast. As in the USA, we saw many different animals and birds, many for the first time. Attending the Songwriters Retreat led by Resound Worship UK was an encouraging experience. The input and shared group sessions provided a helpful response to songs being crafted at that time. I also found their podcasts useful in preparation for this creative season.”
“Perhaps not surprisingly, I experienced a greater flow of songwriting throughout this sabbatical, recording ideas on my phone and tablet, even paddling on a beach to record a simple worship song! My goal of crafting at least 2 songs reflecting the wonder of God's creation was surpassed, and I have material that will take more time to process and play with! Back home, I have been assisted in recording simple versions of my songs and have produced music scores for them. I am excited that people are enjoying them! In particular, I have these congregational songs ‘ready to go’-
- Creation Celebration
- Desert Prayer
- Come Holy Spirit
“There are two new performance pieces- ‘Soft soft rain is falling’ and ‘Seashore’, both composed spontaneously in beautiful surroundings.”
“I am currently working on a new version of Psalm 95, and will continue to make use of the notes and recordings I have stored for other songs.”