Story Behind The Song

This song was inspired by my then 6 year old, soon to be, step-daughter. Written in 1995 during the few months leading up to my wedding to her mother. I wrote the song specifically to be performed at the wedding to show my love not only for her mother, but FOR LINDSAY. The chorus was inspired by a name that Lindsay "declared" would be her "new identity" at one time during dinner. The guitar progression came from a finger picking exercise I developed for myself.

Song Description

Rainbow, Ponytail, Cupcake, Sprinkles was the working title for this song written around a chord progression and finger picking guitar exercise I developed. The words rainbow ponytail...etc. was actually a name my fiancee's daughter had declared to be her new name, new identity... she was 6 at the time. I had begun writing several songs during that period which was leading up to my wedding to the girl's mom. I wrote one song for my fiancee to be performed at the wedding and felt that it would be cool to have one for the other new girl in my life... her daughter. Words came very easily. I feel like it appropriately describes how a step child or adopted child can be loved as much as your very own. The song stands alone very nicely when simply played on an acoustic guitar but I always heard that flute and violins when playing it raw.

Lyrics

Let's sit back and pretend
That you and I have an invisible friend
We can stay up all night
If your mom says it'll be alright

You know that I've known you
For three and some odd years
There's been lots of laughter
And a whole mess of tears

(Chorus)
Rainbow, ponytail, cupcake, sprinkles
When you smile I love the way your nose wrinkles
All the Barneys and the Rip Van Winkles
Can't love you the way that I do

I take your little hand
Go to the beach and bury me in the sand
We can get some ice cream
and you can tell me 'bout your favorite dream

You know that I've known you
For more than half your life
I'm not your daddy
But your mommy is my wife

(Chorus)

(Bridge)
And all the grown-ups, they always say
That you can't always have your way
Honey please don't touch
Because, you know, it costs too much
But I want you to have it anyway

I close my eyes count to ten
You run and hide but then I'll find you again
And tuck you into your bed
A real tight hug and then a kiss on the forehead

You know that I've know you
Through good times and through bad
I love when your happy
And I hate it when your sad

(Chorus)
...hug you the way that I, kiss you the way that I, Love you the way that I do.