Gracie
Salt and water in my veins
I’m half asleep but Cousin Mary keeps me sane
Instruments lie on my gown
I’ve never had such a fear of falling down
But I’ve got Gracie around
A friend to jest and clown
Her way of life is basic
I’m sick
Doctors come and do their rounds
They wake me up and attack me with their light and sound
Will my pupils dilate right
These neurochecks sure keep me up at night
But I’ve got Gracie around
A friend to jest and clown
My state of mind needs her help
I have lost touch
I need Gracie around
I really miss the sound of birds
I really miss the sight of home
And all the people I know
So much time spent alone
Days are short and spirits are low
It’s been a ride and a half, this journey’s long and slow
We marvel at the tumor’s size
I haven’t bathed and I’m attracting flies
But I’ve got Gracie around
A friend to jest and clown
My state of mind is manic
Panic
— Notes —
Woof! Gracie is the name of a therapy dog who I have had the pleasure to meet in the hospital a few times. She is an absolute legend.
This song has descriptions of my experiences in the hospital. Cousin Mary is the first song that I listened to after my first brain surgery. It made me cry because of how amazing it sounded. Doctors would do rounds every few hours to do a series of neurological tests to see how my brain had been reacting to the surgery. One of the tests was to shine a light in my eyes to make sure that my pupils dilate correctly. It’s impossible to get a good night of sleep at the hospital.
However, having a dog visit you while you’re in a hospital bed is fantastic. It’s such a simple way to bring some joy into your bizarre environment.
—
Casey Welch: Vocals, Piano, Baritone Ukulele, Electric Guitar
Dave Pascal: Bass Guitar
Chris Welch: Drums, Guitar Back, Shakers, Triangle
Produced by Casey Welch and Chris Welch
Engineering, editing, and mixing: Chris Welch
Mastered by Rachel Field at Resonant Mastering, Seattle, WA
All songs ©2025 Casey Welch