Baby, It's Cold Outside!

I love Christmastime.  In spite of my non-Christian anti-materialist self, I gave in to the fact years ago.  I don't watch tv, and I can't remember the last time I saw a mall, so I am nicely shielded from the tainted aspects of our culture's stressful and mindless shop-fest.  We have even talked most of our family into keeping the gift-giving very pared-down, so that really cuts the stress to the bare minimum.  I can simply enjoy the old-fashioned parts ~ lights, music, fires in the fireplace, movies and specials rented from iTunes, and festive feasting with loved ones.  Yay!
The Pandora devotee that I am, here are some stations I have been rotating.
Vince Gauraldi Trio ~ the Charlie Brown music.  I love it.  Mostly instrumental, jazzy versions of the classics.  Piano-centric.
Ukraine Bell Carol ~ classical.  Very nice.
Sleigh Ride ~ the classics by Dean Martin, Andy Williams, etc.
and a gift from Arlene ~ Mariah Carey's All I Want for Christmas is You ~ on the pop end of the spectrum, it warms my heart because it reminds me of Arlene.  : )  Mariah really does kick some Christmas song ass.
In trying to be respectful of my housemates, the Christmas music time is selective, and I sneak some in while they're out.  That way it doesn't get old for any of us.
As much as I love the mild weather of the Bay Area, I must admit to wishing I saw a snowflake or two out the window.  Snow is so magical and so much a part of the Christmas Mystery for me.  But I get over that one pretty quick!  ;-)

I'm wishing for you a warm cheery beverage (and maybe a cookie), laughter, and singing with people you love.