Try our apps and activities then use what you’ve learned to create your own stories, games and crafts at home. Everything we build at TFS is designed to inspire you to do the same.
TFS does not collect, sell, or share your personal data.
Site traffic is anonymous to us; any data stored (e.g. WooCommerce checkout, Facebook comments) is handled under those platforms’ own policies.
Emails shared with TFS (for downloads, comments, or purchases) are used only for support and receipts.
We never sell or trade personal information.
3. Refunds & Digital Products
At TFS, all products are digital and instantly delivered.
Not Refundable: PDFs, MP3s, instant downloads, donations, or mis-typed emails.
Possible Replacements: Lost files, wrong email delivery, or technical errors (re-sent file, not a refund).
Donations: Always non-refundable, but deeply appreciated. 👉 Full refund policy is available on our Dragon Returns page.
4. Content & Copyright
All TFS stories, songs, and artwork are original or created with AI tools we own the rights to.
Families may print, sing, or share for personal or classroom use.
No resale, no watermark removal, no reposting on marketplaces.
Viral sharing must credit: “Content from TallenFamiliesStories.com – Created by John Tallen”
5. AI Content & Attribution
Works that are 60%+ AI-generated are labeled “AI-Assisted,” not branded with the TFS logo.
Works written/edited/performed by John Tallen (with AI support) are official TFS products.
Paid works include digital signatures for authenticity.
6. Social Media & Comment Responsibility
Families remain fully responsible for any posts or comments they make on Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram, even if they tag us.
Comments on our official site must be kind and respectful.
Offensive, harmful, or illegal content will be removed.
Views expressed by commenters do not represent TFS.
7. Canadian Consent & Media Use
By sharing media online, adults confirm they have consent from all family members shown.
Parents/caregivers are responsible for supervising children online, including accidental purchases, posts, or access.
TFS is not responsible for verifying consent of minors that duty rests with the adult.
8. Liability & Safety Disclaimer
TFS is not liable for accidents, messes, or damages caused by crafts, recipes, or activities. Parents should supervise use and prepare safe workspaces.
TFS is not liable for third-party platforms (WooCommerce, Facebook, YouTube, etc.). Use of those services is subject to their own policies.
Using TFS content is at your discretion. We provide educational tools; parents provide supervision and judgment.
9. Accessibility & Inclusion
We strive to create content that is accessible and inclusive for families of all abilities. Feedback is always welcome.
Artist: John Tallen / Tallen Families Stories/ AI Music Labs
Genre: Children’s Music / Storytelling / Regional
Description: A playful Circle Time anthem rooted in BC learn how to say Cariboo, Chilcotin, Kamloops, Kelowna, with the legendary Ogopogo. A song of community, geography, and imagination.
Cariboo I see you running wild Hooves pounding dirt like a heartbeat child Chilcotin winds whisper to my soul Echoes of ancestors making me whole
Cariboo I see you CARE-ih-boo Chilcotin I feel your vibe Chill-COAT-in Kamloops the place I call my home KAM-loops, Kelowna where the waters roam Kuh-LOH-nuh OgoPogo Let me know, Let me go
Rivers crash like thunder Carving the stone, Mountains rise Guardians, Flesh and bone I hear the eagle’s scream Skies of blue The land speaks ancient, It knows what’s true
I stomp, I shout, I feel alive, I breathe this air, I survive
Cariboo I see you CARE-ih-boo Chilcotin I feel your vibe Chill-COAT-in Kamloops the place I call my home KAM-loops, Kelowna where the waters roam Kuh-LOH-nuh Ogo Pogo Let me know, Let me go! Drums in my chest, They call me near Voices of the land, So loud, So clear I walk this earth with ancient pride Cariboo Chilcotin I’m alive
I stomp, I shout I feel alive, I breathe this air, I survive Cariboo I see you CARE-ih-boo Chilcotin I feel your vibe Chill-COAT-in Kamloops the place I call my home KAM-loops Kelowna where the waters roam Kuh-LOH-nuh Ogo Pogo
2. Wolf Called Little John
Song Title: Wolf Called Little John
Album: Circle Time with Little John & Friends
Artist: John Tallen / Tallen Families Stories
Genre: Children’s Music / Storytelling / Faith-Inspired
Description: Based on the Little John storybooks, this song follows the young wolf through thunder, fire, and flood — teaching bravery, kindness, and the strength of family.
In Willowbrook, before a willy’s puddle, the summers came, with fire, with flood, with Drought. But little John, he kept his faith, and walked the narrow mile
Oh, run, little John, through the fire and the rain God will guide your steps again Be brave, be kind, when the night feels long You’re never alone, your family’s strong
The schoolhouse burned, the flames left tree to tree, before the pigs claimed the crown. But floods will rise, and pride will break, for history brings kingdoms down
Oh, run, little John, through the fire and the rain God will guide your steps again Be brave, be kind When the night feels long You’re never alone, your friends rely on you His mother prayed beside the well, his father held a song. Lord, keep our little one safe from harm. And bring him and his friends back home Oh, run, little John, through the fire and the rain God will guide your steps again Be brave, be kind, when the night feels long For you are never alone Little John, your family’s strong
3. Just John
“Many moons and years ago, when John and Deni first met, she teased that I was ‘Just John. Her friends never called me Johnny but I was the guy with the big neck. That moment of being Just John stuck. This song carries that nickname forward, a playful reminder that sometimes being Just John is more than enough.” It tied into the song Jeff as I met a Jeff who was upset that his name was spelled wrong Geoff. I make animal noises and combined the two.
I am just John, not Johnny, not Johnson, not Jonathan, you’ve got it wrong I don’t need a fancy name to lean on I’m me, and Deni says I’m just John Just John, just John
That’s my name, come sing along Not too short, not too long
Deni says I’m just, just John
Tim’s got Timothy, Timmy and more He hears a new nickname at every door But me, I don’t play along But “Timmy” ain’t my song I’m happy being just John
Jeff is Jeff, Jeffrey and Jeff I only like this name stretched out of a giraffe’s neck
But me, I keep it steady and strong I’m proud to be just John Just John, just John That’s my name, come sing along Not too short, not way too long
I’m me and Deni agrees, and I’m just, just John Just John, just John That’s my name, come sing along
Not too short, not way too long I’m me and Deni agrees, and I’m just, just John
4: Butter Fist Biscuits
Butter Fist Biscuits is about using language and humor to calm down. When you’re upset, instead of swearing, mix up some biscuits and share them with the person you’re mad at. The act of mixing by hand is grounding, and sharing food helps soften hard feelings.
Back in high school, I once showed a video of two toddlers swearing and joked, this is what it feels like walking into class some days. The class and I agreed to do rap battle with clean words. Here is my version with the original Asphalt line and course assisted with AI Music Labs.
Hey troubles, you’re nothing but asphalt And you won’t see me crack I’ll pave my own way for my calm to come back
When Butter Fist Biscuits break in your fist Don’t cuss, don’t fuss, don’t throw a fit Just shout dastardly dingbats And walk away from it
Dastardly Dingbats, let us be kind Peace, don’t be gloomy, the sun’s gonna shine Silly little words change when the sky feels blue Why waste my time on hate or spite
Instead sing silly words to make things right Hey anger, you’re asphalt!
You won’t see me crack I’ll pave the way for my calm to come back
Butter Fist Biscuits are better with cheese I ask the clock, got ten minutes please It was ticked off as my shoes tapped their heels
So dastardly dingbats, I dance to heal Dastardly dingbats, let us be kind Peace, don’t be gloomy, the sun’s gonna shine Silly little words when the sky feels blue
Why waste my breath on hate or spite I’ll sing silly cuss words to make it right Dastardly dingbats, let us be kind Peace, don’t be gloomy, the sun’s gonna shine
Silly little words when the sky feels blue Why waste my breath on hate or spite I’ll sing silly cuss words to make it right
5. Jeff is Geoff. Geeeooooff
Geoff will be introduced as a main character in the This Ables book series (early 2026). He has already been hinted at in the Little John stories. One of Geoff’s unique traits is a speech impediment: he struggles to say his own name, and each attempt makes it sound longer and longer. What begins as “Geoff” may stretch into “Gee-gee-gee-offff,” creating both funny and tender moments in the story.
This trait isn’t meant to mock it shows how language challenges can shape identity and humor, while also reminding readers that everyone’s voice deserves to be heard, no matter how it comes out. Students will accept and mimic others out of respect we as a society teach was is accepting but TFS always suggest including the person you feel is being affected like them build their character.
I have a friend and his name is Jeff He’s maybe a pony or a mini horse pet But Jeff is too silly of a name, of course So we call him Jeff
I have a friend and his name is Jeff He’s grown a bit bigger and a little bit deaf When we call real loud, he still won’t hear So we shout, Jeeeeff, to make it clear
Now his name has stretched to Geoff Because he goes off, it’s not short like a cough He sings like it’s stuck in his throat Like the bah, bah, bah of Billy the Goat
And every time he says his name it stretches longer like a silly game From Jeff, to Jeeeeff, to Geoff, so tall His neck grows longer and he laughs with us all
Let’s all try his long giraffe neck called Geoff Jeff, Jeff, Jeffrey, Geeoooffff You’re needed at Tallen Family Stories
6. Sue-Weet Piggy Princess
Sue-weet wasn’t always so sweet. Children all go through a phase were they test the waters with new names. Little Sue-Weet most will make subtle changes pretending they are innocent and sweet or perhaps a Villain era? When Little John first met her, she strutted around Willow Brook like she owned the place. She teased the smaller animals, pushed her way to the front of the line, and demanded the shiniest apples for herself. Some called her a bully, others called her a spoiled princess and Sue liked both titles just fine. In book three in Little John Series she will have a change of Heart and become an empathic helper in the community.
I’m Sue-weet, the princess pig I want it all and I want it big Candy, cookies, cakes for me Mud baths daily Sticky as can be Don’t say no, I’ll take it all Big or small, I want the whole
Sue-weet, that’s me Can’t you see, Covered in sugar, happy as can be Sticky hands, sticky feet Life is yummy when you’re Sue Sweet
I dip my donuts in chocolate goo Then splash in mud, what else can I do I’ll snatch your candy, I’ll lick your spoon And roll in sprinkles all afternoon
Don’t say stop, I’m on a roll Sticky sweets, they fill my soul
Sue-weet, that’s me Can’t you see Covered in sugar, happy as can be Sticky hands, sticky feet Life is yummy when you’re Sue Sweet
Mud and candy mix it all I’m the princess of the messy ball Laughing loud, I love this treat Forever greedy, Princess Sue weeet
Sue-Weet, that’s me, Can’t you see Covered in sugar, happy as can be Sticky hands, sticky feet Life is perfect when you’re Sue-Weet
Sue Weet Oh, you’re Sue, Sue Sweet Oh, you’re Sue Sweet That’s me, can’t you see
Covered in sugar, happy as can be Sticky hands, sticky feet Life is perfect when you’re Sue Sweet
7. Big Piggy: It Ain’t Stealing, It’s Credit
Big Piggy is Sue Weet’s and Oscars big brother. Unlike his sister, he isn’t bossy he’s charming rockstar that doesn’t mind his fans are bugs and insects. With a quick smile and a catchy tune, he sings about the “fine line between stealing and buying on credit.” To some, it sounds wise. To others, it sounds slippery.
Does Big Piggy really understand what he’s singing, or is he just a charismatic thief? That’s the question Little John and the Willow Brook friends will have to decide. One thing’s for sure whenever Big Piggy is around, you’ll want to count your apples and acorns twice.
Yo, it’s Big Piggy in the pen Gonna tell you how I spend
I see candy on the shelf I don’t pay, I help myself Don’t get mad, don’t you sweat it
It ain’t stealing, it’s credit It ain’t stealing, it’s credit Don’t you forget it If I don’t pay today I’ll get you when I can I use credit It’s funny, it’s money I ain’t lent Big Piggy got style, It’s the way my day is spent
Toys, cookies, sodas too I’ll take one now and say I owe you Write it down, no need to fret
It ain’t stealing, it’s credit It ain’t stealing, it’s credit Don’t you forget it If I don’t pay today I’ll get you when I can I use credit It’s funny, it’s money I ain’t lent Big Piggy got style, It’s the way my day is spent
Sticky paws, muddy shoes Piggy does what Piggy do I’ll pay later, don’t you sweat it It ain’t stealing, it’s credit
It ain’t stealing, it’s credit Big Piggy won’t forget it Big Piggy won’t forget it It ain’t stealing, it’s credit
Don’t you forget it If I don’t pay today I’ll get you when I can I use credit
It’s funny, it’s money I ain’t lent Big Piggy got style It’s the way my day is spent
Sticky paws, muddy shoes Piggy does what Piggy do I’ll pay later, don’t you sweat it It ain’t stealing, it’s credit
It ain’t stealing, it’s credit Big Piggy won’t forget it Big Piggy won’t forget it Big Piggy won’t forget it
8. Buzz Buzz Buzz
Buzzing is an unpleasant sound that began deep in a bear’s cave. At first, it was only a hum but the area ignored became closer to a swamp. The hum is brought to Willow Brook described as Pigs. Behind the masks a swarm of mosquitoes. These weren’t ordinary pests; they struck bargains with the forest animals, trading a single drop of blood in exchange for leaving them in peace.
Ooh, Whoa, oh, whoa, oh, whoa, oh, whoa, oh Whoa, oh, whoa, oh, whoa, oh Buzz, buzz, buzz, here I come tonight
Buzz, buzz, buzz, don’t put up a fight You swat and scream, get out, you pest But I only want blood, it’s what I do best What’s wrong with wanting the red
It’s dinner for me, not just for fun You’ve got plenty, just a drop or two Buzz, buzz, buzz, I’ll sip from you Buzz, buzz, buzz, you spray that stuff
Buzz, buzz, buzz, but we just laugh it off We don’t eat pizza, we don’t eat cake One tiny taste is all we take Buzz, buzz, buzz,
I’m not greedy, don’t make a fuss
Buzz, buzz, buzz, come share with us Buzz, buzz, buzz, now you’re itchy, twitchy I leave a bump to remember, I bite thee But hey, don’t judge, don’t act so rude
I’m just a mosquito, dude Find out what’s wrong with wanting blood I’m just a bug, misunderstood So when I buzz, don’t think it’s crude
Mud Castle Dreaming is told from the perspective of Oscar Pig’s siblings, living spoiled and proud off the “riches” gifted by the mosquitoes. To them, the watering hole is a palace, and every drop of dirty water feels like treasure. While Willow Brook’s drinking water starts making animals sicker by the day, the pigs only celebrate louder, singing of castles made of mud and dreams built on borrowed wealth.
We roll in the slop like kings of the scene Our castle’s made of mud, not marble or sheen Slick walls so smooth they gleam in the sun Life in the muck is filthy fun Mud castle dreaming, rolling so free Rich in the grime, that’s royalty Filthy and fancy dirt’s our throne This mud’s not just mud, it’s a palace of our own
The moot’s made of puddles, the bridge is a stick Our chandelier’s a spiderweb, oh so slick Walls built high with a hoof and a snout You call it a mess, we call it clout Oh, the mud it holds, the mud it holds Rich in the dirt, richer than gold Mud castle dreaming, rolling so free Rich in the grime, that’s royalty
Filthy and fancy dirt’s our throne This mud’s not just mud, it’s a palace of our own Oh, the mud it hugs, the mud it holds Rich in the dirt, richer than gold Mud castle dreaming, rolling so free Rich in the grime, that’s royalty Filthy and fancy dirt’s our throne This mud’s not just mud, it’s a palace of our own
We don’t need silk, we don’t need lace Just a puddle party in our royal space The world’s too clean, they’ll never know The wealth of a pig in the mud’s warm glow We don’t need silk, we don’t need lace Just a puddle party in our royal space The world’s too clean, they’ll never know The wealth of a pig in the mud’s warm glow
Change of Pace for a Moment
🌟 Artist Note on Cryptids Stomp
For those wondering, the Xanadu reference in “Xanadu stars light the ancient way” is not from the throat-singing piece of the same title (though that’s amazing too). My line was inspired by watching an old musical with Olivia Newton-John’s iconic Xanadu. You can find it easily on YouTube.
That video always reminds me of using AI for my music. With AI, I can layer instruments in hours that once took months. Xanadu is this vivid mix of roller-skating, disco, glam rock, dance, and club jazz. For the old people it blended Studio 54 sparkle with old Hollywood magic.
I like to imagine cryptids stomping their way through myth and music history the same way: Medieval, prehistoric, and modern sounds colliding together.
10 BC Cryptids by TFS
BC Cryptids celebrates three of British Columbia’s most legendary creatures. We honor the lake-dwelling Ogopogo of Okanagan waters, the sky-soaring Dinosaur, Thunderbird, or to me a Pterosaur which is the living Thunderbird. Of course TFS has to mention the forest dwelling Sasquatch. Each verse tells their tale the way neighbors have whispered them for generations: half legend, half possibility.
In Hundred Mile House, our story begins with a few hidden friends A thousand acres and millions of trees You will never get lost if you follow the bees It’s not a plane or a bird, so don’t be absurd
It could be a flying pterosaur or a thunderbird Shared with First Nations folks and their words Oh, in the caribou and the Chilcotin as child, I was wild I would play where the cryptids and the animals smiled
There’s a lake full of legends and a forest so deep Secrets and wonders that the mountains keep From the high open fields to the valley below There’s magic in this country, so locals please protect what you know
Way down south, past Kamloops and through the pines There’s a long, long lake with some mysterious signs In Kelowna and all around, folks tell the same tale Of the Ogopogo with a serpent’s long tail
He’s not a monster, no. He’s the spirit of the water, cousin of ness. A likeness, maybe kin or daughter Oh, in the caribou and the Chilcotin as child, I was wild I would play where the cryptids and the animals smiled
There’s a lake full of legends and a forest so deep With secrets and wonders that the mountains keep From the high open fields to the valley below There’s magic in this country, so locals please protect what you know
Then there’s Sasquatch, all hairy and tall He walks through the woods and he’s seen by all From the coast to the Kootenays, he roams far and wide With big giant footprints, he’s still somehow able to hide
He’s a shy one, a gentle giant, they say Just watching the world in his own secret way Oh, in the caribou and the Chilcotin as child, I was wild I would play where the cryptids and the animals smiled
There’s a lake full of legends and a forest so deep With secrets and wonders that the mountains keep From the high open fields to the valley below There’s magic in this country, so locals please protect what you know
So if you love aliens, cryptids, and animal friends Come to Tallen Family Stories. com, where the magic never ends.
11 Boom Boom “ThunderBird”
Inspired by the blog’s “Dino named Pete,” Thunderbird is a high-energy action song built for dancing and stomping along. With its booming beat and call-and-response hook “Boom! Boom! Thunderbird!” it invites listeners to move, chant, and play. Going Faster!
Parents, families, and creators can join the fun by launching their own dance routines and challenges with #ThunderBird and #TFS on their favorite social media platforms.
Boom, boom, thunderbird, flap, flap, thunderbird, Take off, take off, shake the room Lightning, flash, flash, thunder bang, boom. Lightning, flash, flash, thunder bang, boom Again, faster, faster Boom, boom, boom, thunderbird, flap, flap, thunderbird, Take off, take off, shake the room
Lightning, flash, flash, thunder bang, boom. Lightning, flash, flash, thunder, bang, boom Show us your thunderbird moves using
# Tallen Family Stories, yeah
Boom, boom, thunderbird, flap, flap, thunderbird, Take off, take off, shake the room Lightning, flash, flash, thunder bang, boom. Lightning, flash, flash, thunder, bang, boom
Again, faster, faster Boom, boom, boom, thunderbird, flap, flap, Thunderbird, take off, take off, shake the room Lightning, flash, flash, thunder bang, boom. Lightning, flash, flash, thunder, bang boom Show us your thunderbird moves using
#Tallen Family Stories, yeah
12 Sassy Sax of Sweet Susy Ogopogo
Most people imagine the Ogopogo like the Loch Ness Monster as a boy. But in this playful tune, an uncle travels underwater passageways with his niece, Susy Ogopogo. Together they fill the deep lakes with music: Uncle on the Scottish bagpipes, and Susy on her golden saxophone. Do you believe creatures larger than boats still hide in our lakes?
Susie Ogo plays the sax so sweet She wiggles her tail and she taps her feet Kelowna’s Long Lake is where she glides From BC’s heart to Scotland where music collides Okanagan Ogo, let’s go Swing and jive, tap a sing, time to glow Bagpipes blow and Uncle Ness sings Lock it in place with the bags he brings
Lock it, lock it, lock it in place Look it, look it, look at those feet Saxophone laughing, bagpipes reply A musical contest under moonlit sky One serpent swings, one monster roars A family jam from two distant shores Sassy sax, a sweet Susie Ogo pogo Vibe checking the bagpipes of a Scottish local
Thunderbird or Mr. Talon, tell us who’s coming next
13 Cryptid Stomp
Cryptid Stomp is an anthem that blends raw energy with ancient echoes. Heavy guitars and bass lay down a growling groove, while stomps, chants, and throat-singing shake the ground like legends come alive. The didgeridoo was meant to be an instrument in testing but thought Sasquatch playing one would be great as it hums like the earth’s own breath, carrying listeners into a celebration where Sasquatch, Ogopogo, and Thunderbird march side by side.
Deep in the shadows where the wild things play Echoes of whispers that never decay Hey, my cryptids, rise and shine Feet on the earth, hearts aligned
Hey, my cryptids, can you hear the sound Canada, Canada, shaking the ground Through the smoke, through the fire, we bound Hey, my cryptids, the lost are found
Eyes in the trees, they shimmer and gleam Tales of the unseen, stitched in a dream Hey, my cryptids, howl with the moon Drums in the distance, calling the tune
Stomp it louder, shake the skies Feel the rumble, spirits rise Hey, my cryptids, can you hear the sound Canada, Canada, shaking the ground
Through the smoke, through the fire, we bound Hey, my cryptids, the lost are found Didgeridoo hums like the earth’s old breath Throat-singing chants echo life and death
Xanadu stars light the ancient way Guitars growl, bass beasts obey
Hey, my cryptids, can you hear the sound
Canada, Canada, shaking the ground Through the smoke, through the fire, we bound Hey, my cryptids, the lost are found
Didgeridoo hums like the earth’s old breath Throat-singing chants echo life and death Xanadu stars light the ancient way Guitars growl, bass beasts obey
14. Ranger Ranger, Lend a Paw
When Willow Brook floods, the animals don’t give up they start fresh in a new settlement called Willie’s Puddle. To help build and protect their town, a new team arrives: the Ranger Rangers a Canadian Animal Response group dedicated to service, safety, and respect.
Little John’s dad, already known for his Search and Rescue skills (Books 2 and 3), joins forces with new friends: a wise Loon in the RCMP, a strong Moose in the RCMP, a dependable Buffalo, and a mighty Bison. Together, they teach that being a good member of society means more than rules it means helping others, respecting differences, and remembering that nature itself must always be part of the conversation.
When the storm clouds roll, when the rivers rise, When fire sparks under midnight skies Don’t be afraid, don’t be a stranger. Call on Mr. Wolf, the Rescue ranger Ranger, Ranger, lend a paw. Keep us safe, that’s the law Any danger, big or small, The rangers come to help us all
There’s a bison ranger out on the plain, Guiding the herds through the wind and rain And a buffalo officer, strong and wise, Protecting the waters where the salmon rise Ranger, Ranger, lend a paw. Keep us safe, that’s the law Any danger, big or small, The rangers come to help us all
If there’s fire, flood, or quake, The rangers teach what steps to take Every emergency helps us learn, So we’ll be ready when it’s our turn Ranger, ranger, lend a paw. Keep us safe, that’s the law Any danger, big or small, The rangers come to help us all
Ranger, ranger, lend a paw. Keep us safe, that’s the law Any danger, big or small, The rangers come to help us all The rangers come to help us all
15. Oscar Howls Wolf
In Book 3, Oscar grows weary of his family’s dishonest ways. Tired and concerned, he reaches out to Little John’s parents, hoping for guidance. When he sees his sister and friends in real trouble, Oscar does something unexpected he howls for Little John’s help.
His courage becomes a turning point: even Sue-Weet, once a bully and spoiled princess, begins to change after witnessing Oscar’s bravery. Through Oscar, the community learns that honesty and courage can spark transformation, even in the most unlikely places.
Oscar was small with glasses on tight He read every book by the lantern light He loved his school where he felt safe Learning math and words at his own pace
Chorus, howl, howl, raise your voice so strong Even the smallest voice can belong Be brave, be true, you’ll find your song Learn wolf with Oscar howl along
At home they teased him for being clean His brother and sister were always mean But he kept his spirit gentle and kind He dreamed of a family he could find
Chorus, howl, howl, raise your voice so strong Even the smallest voice can belong Be brave, be true, you’ll find your song Learn wolf with Oscar howl along
When Sue-Weet’s eyes grew bigger than the moon Oscar prayed little John would be there soon But a roar came rising from deep inside Oscar stood tall with his head held high
Chorus, howl, howl, raise your voice so strong Even the smallest voice can belong Be brave, be true, you’ll find your song Learn wolf with Oscar howl along
Howl, howl, raise your voice so strong Even the smallest voice can belong Be brave, be true, you’ll find your song Oscar and children sing along
16. I’ll show up I’ll love you I’ll try
50 Feet Tall grew out of my old journals from a teaching memories. Fifteen years ago, when I first started teaching, Classified’s 3 Foot Tall was played in a high school classroom after the Muppet Version was shown. The Muppets showed an empowering song but Classified’s artist video shows bullying and words that cut deep terms I could never say in class but knew my students faced and even said themselves every day.
This song flips that perspective. Instead of feeling small, it’s about the joy of feeling larger-than-life through the eyes of children. A new Dad or Uncle gets the feels as the children grow they know they wont be a Superhero or Giant forever so they pause to remember the moment in song.
When you dream, I listen close by So when you ask me why I stop, I breathe, and take a moment So it doesn’t just pass by With a thousand lessons left to unfold A little voice sharing stories to be told Can anyone tell me why I’m feeling fifty feet tall
With every giggle, the world’s troubles seem small I try to remember the world at your size Each bruise, each sparkle, each wild surprise All I can promise is day after day I’ll show up, I’ll love you, I’ll try Teach me how to start again How to be soft, how to pretend
Not every answer needs to be known We’re building something of our own So if I ever feel far or unsure at all Just know you make me feel fifty feet tall I try to remember, I try to see The world as it is, and what it could be All I can promise is day after day I’ll show up, I’ll love you, I’ll try
17. Press on, Oh Pioneers, Press on!
Press On, Pioneers is one of the most recent songs I’ve written, inspired by the hardships faced by both early religious pioneers and First Nations peoples across North America. While the histories and paths of Truth and Reconciliation differ between the U.S. and Canada, the shared story is one of endurance in the face of storms, snow, hunger, and pain.
This song is not meant to be political, but hopeful. It’s family-friendly and upbeat, a reminder that even in trials and persecution, faith can carry us forward. Whether you consider yourself a saint in any faith tradition, you’re invited to join Tallen Families Stories and sing along.
Press On, Pioneers began as an experiment with the old folk tune “She’ll Be Coming ’Round the Mountain.” My first idea was to add the phrase “Press on, press on” at the end of every line. But it never quite flowed. I adapted the course with AI Music Lab, tweaking instruments, adjusting lines, and lifting it into something new. The result is fun and upbeat, with a melody simple enough that parents, kids, and camp leaders can all sing along.
At its heart, this song is about courage through hardship. If you’re struggling, take a verse and sing it out loud. Sometimes a prayer in the heart and a psalm on the tongue are enough to press on.
As we came around the mountain Guiding oxen, guiding kind With the weary and the children Still the Lord’s light brightly shined Press on, oh pioneers, press on Through the night until the dawn With a prayer within our hearts And a psalm upon our tongue Press on, oh saints of God, press on
Though the first ones suffered greatly In the snow and in the storm Yet their footsteps paved the pathway For the rest to journey on
Press on, oh pioneers, press on Through the night until the dawn With a prayer within our hearts And a psalm upon our tongue Press on, oh saints of God, press on
Through the trials and persecution Through the hunger and the pain Still we know the Lord is with us Every loss becomes our gain
Press on, oh pioneers, press on Through the night until the dawn With a prayer within our hearts And a psalm upon our tongue Press on, oh saints of God, press on Today the pioneers look down and see A world still aching for, for peace and mercy
Many souls still seek to find a friend Through truth and love these wounds can end The news is clear, the work’s only begun Reconciliation has started the promise We all belong, regardless of your past Your path can be kind and fun Press on, until the end my friends, press on
18. Daily Guidance
This is a gentle prayer song about giving thanks throughout the day when we wake up, before our meals, and at bedtime. It’s a reminder to pause, show gratitude, lift others with kindness, and carry hope into tomorrow.
When morning comes and greets the day, I kneel and find a space to pray My spirit lifts, my heart takes flight. I thank you for a chance to do what’s right I stand and walk in kindness now. With happy thoughts I make a vow To lift a friend and ease their sorrow. And offer hope I found for a brighter tomorrow
When day begins, a new starts here. I hold all my trails and family so dear Before the meal, the food is blessed. I take a moment and find a space to rest I give thanks, not just for the food on the plate. But I say a prayer for those unable to have ate A silent prayer for those who strive. To help fill them with hope and faith to survive
I stand and walk in kindness now. With happy thoughts I make a vow To lift a friend and ease their sorrow. And offer hope I found for a brighter tomorrow
19.Walk in Kindness Now
Walk in Kindness is a morning prayer set to AI music a gentle vow to start each day with gratitude, lift others in love, and share the Lord’s hope for a brighter tomorrow. I often will use voice to text for my prayers and then save them for a week before I take the Sacrament so this was like as summery but the words “Allow me to Walk in Kindness and for a chance to do what’s right” The Poster has a spelling mistake showing my struggle of keeping my songs about prayer for personal use of adding them to the Tallen Families Stories Collection.
When morning comes and greets the day I kneel and find a place to pray My spirit lifts, my heart takes flight Thank You Lord for another chance to do what’s right I will stand and walk in kindness now With joy in my heart, I make this vow To lift a friend, to ease their sorrow, to share Your hope for a brighter tomorrow
A silent prayer for those who strive Fill them with faith and keep them alive When trials rise, Lord You draw near I hold my struggles but I won’t live in fear I will stand and walk in kindness now With joy in my heart, I make this vow To lift a friend, to ease their sorrow To share your hope for a brighter tomorrow
Every blessing, every meal, every breath I take I thank You Lord for the hands that make For the life that’s given, the gift on my plate And a prayer for the hungry who still wait I will stand and walk in kindness now With joy in my heart, I make this vow To lift a friend, to ease their sorrow, to share Your hope for a brighter tomorrow
Hope for tomorrow, love for today I’ll walk in kindness, Lord show me the way
20. Pray Through the Day
This is another form of daily rhythm of gratitude and faith. Daily guidance is the walking up before leaving the house maybe even family prayer. Walk in Kindness begins the morning with a vow to live with love and do what is right. The idea of choosing actions of happiness and friendship. Each song reminds us to gives thanks at mealtimes and before rest, remembering those in need. Pray Through the Day ties it all together showing that prayer is not just for moments, but a steady way of living from sunrise to nightfall.
Sunrise spills gold on my window pane I breathe it in to say your name again Morning starts with a whispered shout
I’m counting joys I’ve yet to find Your love is loud, it fills my mind
I pray through the day In the light, in the shade Every step, every way, way I pray through the day From the first to the last Every moment I grasp
Lunch break, laughter echoes in the air Lifting hearts with a quiet prayer Grace for the meal, grace for the soul The world keeps spinning fast and wild
But I’m steady like a trusting child I pray through the day In the light, in the shade Every step, every way, way
I pray through the day From the first to the last Every moment I grasp The world keeps spinning fast and wild
But I’m steady like a trusting child I pray through the day In the light, in the shade Every step, every way, way
Every step, every way, way I pray through the day From the first to the last Every moment I grasp
21. Not a Day Will Go
Not a Day Will Go is the most personal of my prayer songs a testimony of faith through hardship. It was written out of the prayers I prayed for my own wants, but also the deeper prayers that asked how to live in God’s way. This song reflects that struggle, and the peace that comes from choosing trust over control. The song ends quick and fast without warning just like our own end.
I was tired of life, the money struggles, the pain in my body, The weight on my heart, Every day felt stuck, I tried my own way, I allowed my family to lead the way The government suggested a pathway, but still nothing worked Then one day I stopped asking, I made a statement to God and to myself
Every single day is blessed with the ability to change lives In prayer and persistence, not a day will go by without giving thought Not a day will go by without action from faith And not a day will go by that I don’t thank God for the chance to try again
Not a day will go by without this prayer in my heart God, I pray, please bless this start I woke up tired and the weight won’t fade Broken dreams, bills and rent still unpaid
Lord, I tried my way, the world’s a way too But the doors stay closed, I have no breakthrough Then I bowed my head, I found my ground, not in the noise but the quiet sound A whisper rose, it filled my soul, you’re not alone
You’re not alone Not a day will go without my faith Not a day will pass, I won’t give thanks Even in the storm, I’ll stand and say
God’s love carries me each day Not a day will go, not a day Not a day will go without His grace Friends gave up, the world moved on
But prayer turned weakness into song I won’t ask, I’ll stand and claim Each step forward, I proclaim Jesus’ name Hope’s not lost, it’s alive in me
In every struggle, in every need I’ll rise again, I’ll rise and sing For my God is everything Not a day will go without my faith
Not a day will pass, I won’t give thanks Even in the storm, I’ll stand and say God’s love carries me each day Not a day will go, not a day
Not a day will go without His grace When the night feels long and the road is cold I hold the hand that will never let go Prayer and persistence light my way
Every heartbeat says I will stay Not a day will go without
22. Blink of an Eye
Blink of an Eye is a song about how quickly life changes as we grow up. The chorus first came to me while riding in the back of a truck on the way to my niece’s wedding. Now, with the joy of her expecting a baby, I’ve added the first verse to capture how precious and fleeting these moments really are. It’s a reminder to hold on to the memories, because in the blink of an eye, everything can change.
Tiny fingers, once curled tight Now reach for the sky, taking flight Yesterday’s cradle, today’s first stride Blink of an eye, gone too fast
Hold on to now, it won’t last Time slips through like sand in hand Blink of an eye, we barely stand First word whispered, first laugh loud
Dreams in their eyes, heads unbowed The world gets smaller as they grow proud Moments stretch, then disappear Where did the years go from here
Blink of an eye, gone too fast Hold on to now, it won’t last Time slips through like sand in hand Blink of an eye, we barely stand
Shoes too big, now fit too tight Day turns to dusk, fades into night But in their eyes, stars still ignite Blink of an eye, gone too fast
Hold on to now, it won’t last Time slips through like sand in hand Blink of an eye, we barely stand Shoes too big, now fit too tight
Day turns to dusk, fades into night But in their eyes, stars still ignite
1: Welcome to Canada
Welcome to Canada is a musical celebration of unity across cultures and landscapes. With powwow drums, I really hope someone will add some “Bhangra beats”, Bagpipes flutes from eastern forests, meet western snowy peaks, and maple skies, the song honors both Indigenous roots and immigrant voices. It’s an anthem of promise and pride many tongues, one spirit, standing together as Canada.
“Hey ya, hey ya, hey ya, hey ya, hey ya, hey.” Whispers of wind through cedar and pine Sky breeze on the land divine From the prairies wide to the oceans cold Snow kissed peaks where the eagles fall Heartbeat deep in the drum I hear Ancient voices singing clear
Every step on the sacred ground Echoes stories that still resound Roots run deep and branches rise In every face the northern skies Welcome to Canada, the spirit, the flame Different tongues but hearts the same From wigwam fire to temple light We stand as one in day and night
Welcome to Canada, land so wide The drum, the flute, the northern pride Bhangra beats where the powwow meets Footprints blend on snowy streets Bagpipes call from the eastern shore Languages dancing evermore We are treaty, we are promise We are colour, voice and solace
Under maple stars align Past and future intertwine Welcome to Canada, the spirit, the flame Different tongues but hearts the same From wigwam fire to temple light We stand as one in day and night Welcome to Canada, land so wide The drum, the flute, the northern pride
