Oh Christmas Tree

Here's a photo of our beautiful Christmas tree, resting in front of the fireplace and hanging stockings. Mommy is resting on the couch with Madison, both watching a Christmas movie or two. We've got a lot of recovering to do, now that our Christmas play is over with - we're zonked! Things worked out really well in all four performances, each one with every seat filled and latecomers put out into overflow. With acrobatics, comedy, and great musical numbers, this was a memorable event for anyone who attended. Mommy did so well with the costuming, and it worked out so well.

But now it is time to rest! We had plans to do Christmas cards or wrap or even shop today - but the best we could manage was to lay around on the couch and watch Christmas movies all day. Nothing wrong with that: we've been doing a ton of work on this production lately, and it's time to catch up on some rest beneath the Christmas tree.

This year, one of Madison's favorite Christmas songs is "Oh Christmas Tree." She sings that one - and "Jingle Bells" frequently. She also does "Silent Night," which - despite the fact she doesn't know the words - is one of the sweetest things you can hear.

Right now, Mommy is watching one of her favorite Christmas movies, "The Preacher's Wife." It's a remake of an older Christmas movie, "The Bishop's Wife," which Daddy really likes. They both feature angels who come down from heaven to help out a very busy, very burdened minister. Of course they both have happy endings. The ending of "The Bishop's Wife" is classic, and features a wonderful message:

“Tonight I want to tell you the story of an empty stocking.

Once upon a midnight clear, there was a child's cry, a blazing star hung over a stable, and wise men came with birthday gifts. We haven't forgotten that night down the centuries. We celebrate it with stars on Christmas trees, with the sound of bells, and with gifts.

But especially with gifts. You give me a book, I give you a tie. Aunt Martha has always wanted an orange squeezer and Uncle Henry can do with a new sweater. For we forget nobody, adult or child. All the stockings are filled, all that is, except one. And we have even forgotten to hang it up. The stocking for the child born in a manger. It’s his birthday we're celebrating. Don't let us ever forget that.

Let us ask ourselves what He would wish for most. And then, let each put in his share, loving kindness, warm hearts, and a stretched out hand of tolerance. All the shining gifts that make peace on earth.”

- Bishop Henry Brougham