TWOC: Christmas Memories

Christmas memories encompass many things. There are, literally, too many to choose from. However, I decided to share the ONE album that has been a part of EVERY Christmas since I can remember. Some of you may wonder, why this album? Well, let me just say it has touched and continues to touch so many emotions that it remains an integral part of mine and my family's holiday season.

The very first time I heard this album, I was very young. My parent's bought it (on cassette no less) because my Dad is a HUGE fan of Alabama. It was played. We got to the one song called, "Santa Claus (I Still Believe in You)." I remember my mom began bawling when it came to the one line..."Grandma and Grandpa, looking young and loving life cause they know their grandkids are gonna be alright." Mind you my mother had recently lost her grandfather....to be honest, I can't believe I remember that evening. However, that night resonates to this day. You ask any member of my immediate family about this album and they know, not only the words but the music as well. Seriously, ask my sister..."Who is Thistle Hair?" and she will promptly reply with, "The Christmas Bear"...almost without hesitation. This album seriously means a lot to me and my family. It's very true lol. It's a bit strange perhaps, but the same verse of the same song makes me just as teary-eyed as my mother after having also lost my grandfather, or more affectionately called Pappaw.

It's not just that one song though, it's all of them. I think I could, literally, sing ALL of them! You know they say certain sounds, smells, etc, can trigger a memory. It may be a little odd but this particular album is almost like looking through a scrapbook of memories when it's being played. It has definitely become a family tradition. I truly believe years from now, my family will continue to listen to this same Christmas album. I highly recommend it. Actually, I'm not even sure you can still buy it, I mean afterall it did come out in the late 80s...however, it's just not Christmas at our house without it!

For a little taste of it, listen to the following...TURN IT UP...it's a video from 1987, sorry I couldn't find any other way to post it. However, it's still great, just turn it up and listen closely lol!

The other album I listen to is Josh Groban's "Noel"....let me just say, "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" and "Little Drummer Boy" are my favorites, along with the usual "O Holy Night". I must recommend this album as well...it is so wonderful. Then again, it's one I sing to lol, so I hope it's as great to you as it is to me! Although living in a hotel this holiday season, I may just need to head out to my car to get the full effect LOL!

So I decided to post a little of "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" sung by Josh Groban, unfortunately all I could find is an old video from Regis & Kelly's show...sorry. So here it is...

Once again, confused? Look here!!!