I think I was in sixth grade when my teacher, Mrs. Ripley,
taught our class about saying “Rabbit Rabbit” first thing on the first day of
each month for good luck. It’s certainly a silly superstition but somehow it stuck.
Thirty years later and I still whisper it, when I remember, as I open my eyes
on the first of each month. I don’t really believe in luck, but it makes me
think of sixth grade, which was a really fun year at my small school. Mrs.
Ripley got pregnant that year and the eight of us in our small class were
really close. So Rabbit Rabbit and Happy December!
I faithfully made it through Thanksgiving without listening
to any Christmas music and, let me tell you, it wasn’t easy. But now that we’re
safely over the turkey and onto the holly, I’ve been enjoying the sounds of the
season.
I have other favorite things this month as well – to listen
to, read, taste, and watch.
Listen:
I have three Christmas cds on constant rotation at home, two
by David Ian (otherwise known as Dave Ghazarian, co-founder of Superchick and
current guitarist of the Peter Furler Band) and one by Peter Furler (former
lead singer of the Newsboys).
Dave’s cds, Vintage
Christmas and Vintage Christmas
Wonderland, are a smooth, jazzy rendition of Christmas classics. Offering
both vocal and instrumental selections, these are the perfect songs to have on
while you’re baking or wrapping Christmas gifts. Also, I want to throw 17
dinner parties this month just so I can play these songs in the background. My
favorite is an original composition by Dave titled “Christmas Time With You,” (a
duet featuring Andre Miguel Mayo and Acacia on the Vintage Christmas cd). I couldn’t compose a song if my life
depended on it, so I really appreciate Dave’s talent not just in arranging
these songs, but in playing piano, guitars, and bells as well.
Peter’s cd, Christmas,
consists of 10 classic carols and spoken word offerings. His voice, with that
Australian accent, is so strong and unique. My favorite on this cd is Peter’s
rendition of “We Three Kings” and a haunting version of “O Come O Come
Emmanuel.” Dave produced this cd, and infused it with a multicultural vibe,
including violins, cello, the Armenian duduk, and French Horn. There’s a touch
of the Armenian Divine Liturgy in the background vocals, and the spoken word selections
really bring meaning to this season. Peter is gifted and the Holy Spirit brings
Scripture to life through him.
You can pick up all three cds (and more) here. They also make great stocking stuffers!
Read:
I recently read my friend Carrie Padgett’s book, Short, Sweet & Sassy. It’s a
collection of romantic short stories, and by short I mean that each story is
one chapter. In just a few pages, Carrie captures that moment of a guy and gal
falling for each other. Each tale is unique – a sweet snippet of romance and
love-at-first-sight in different settings and circumstances. You could read one
story before bed for two weeks or, like me, devour it in one sitting.
Order it here for less than $5! This would also make a fun stocking stuffer! And be sure to
visit Carrie’s blog here.
Watch:
Anyone who knows me knows I’m a little fanatical about the
Hallmark Channel – especially at Christmastime. I’ve been made fun of
relentlessly but I don’t really care. If you want sweet, entertaining,
family-centered stories and can suspend all reality and logic for two hours,
then Hallmark Christmas movies are for you.
I get it – they’re cheesy and predictable. But who cares? I
want a happy ending, even if I can see it coming a mile away. Yes, there just
happens to be a single lady and a widowed guy and a puppy and a bakery – I
mean, however could it possibly end up? You just have to ignore the sarcastic
comments (I’m looking at you, Jayson) and enjoy the ride.
Taste:
I’m slightly obsessed with Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Stars
cookies. They only come out at Christmastime and I try to control myself by
purchasing one box at a time. But about mid-December, I get a little desperate
knowing they won’t be around much longer and buy an extra two or three (or six)
boxes that I stockpile in our pantry and ration throughout the year.
And if you’re feeling really crazy, try the Mini Dark
Chocolate Mint Stars cookies. I mean, dark chocolate and mint? And they’re mini?
The cutest, most deliciously evil and addicting cookies out there. If you miss
them this season, you’re welcome to visit my pantry.
OK, I’m getting off my
shoebox now.
