I highly recommend Joyeux Noel, a beautiful film which tells the story of a Christmas Eve WWI cease fire.  Soldiers from Germany, France and Scotland find peace in the midst of war, and friendship with those they’ve been taught to hate.  Based on the true story.  The acting, music and scenery are stunning!

Michael Gott sings of this special night on his Christmas CD.  The song is entitled, Christmas in the Trenches.  Both the music and the movie are fitting reflections this time of year as we are mindful of all those who serve our country in the military. 

I blogged about this earlier, thinking it was a spoof.  But it’s true:  Bob Dylan has released a Christmas music CD.  I suspect only those who really love his work and really love the season will enjoy it.  It’s fun to think of this music icon taking on a few well-worn tunes and giving them a new sound. 

Okay, friends.  There’s no turning back: the holidays have officially begun. 

Today I am thankful for:

• a home to entertain my family, raise our daughters, and work and live in;
• music that lifts my heart and mood;
• watching movies with my loved ones;
• my health.

For what are you grateful this Thanksgiving Day?

Gratitude comes first.
All the beauty that surrounds us,
the people we love,
even the things we fuss over or take for granted
are gifts from God.
We didn’t create this world,
but now we’re blessed to participate in it.
So, it is our first response
to give thanks for all we have in our lives.
As the Christmas season approaches,
Let’s remember all we have been given,
and with open hearts,
thank God for everything in our lives.
For when we do,
our lives will be transformed.
Viewed through grateful eyes,
we will see goodness in the people and circumstances
of our lives, and
we’ll trust more completely the
Divine Providence that wills great joy for us
and for those we love.
Say “thank you” first, and often.
Then, be grateful again for how light your heart feels
after you’ve said these simple life-affirming words.
Gratitude comes first. — Maria Rodgers O’Rourke

It’s not too soon to start avoiding holiday stress!  Our friends at Organized Christmas have some great ideas.