This past Friday was horrifying, I know. Others have shared wisdom and comfort much more eloquently that I ever could (including my friend Dr. Lisa Marotta, who offers thoughts on helping your child weather the storm of tragedy at her blog). My own form of coping is to refocus on the joy of the holidays.
First off, I wanted to thank people for their music/book/film recommendations. I’m excited to explore all your suggestions. For music, specifically, I’ve already added Dee Dee Chumley‘s recommendation of the Ware Patterson Duo’s An Angel’s Noel. XM radio’s Holiday Pops inspired me to get Noels and Carols from the Olde World from Apollo’s Fire and Joy to the World from the King’s Singers. My favorite song from the latter is “What Child is This” — you can listen to the audio on their Myspace Page, or you might check out their rendition of “Greensleeves” (same music, different lyrics):
Saturday was my crit group’s annual Christmas tea at Inspirations Tea Room. It was wonderfully cheering to spend time with these amazing ladies, and you know I can’t resist sharing a tea photo or two:
The tiered tray is always impressive . . .
and the company always divine!
I’m nearly done with Christmas shopping. This week I plan to buy those last few things, do some holiday baking, wrap presents, revise a short story, go ice skating with friends, and hopefully watch a few more Christmas movies. (Have already watch The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe and The Holiday (the latter twice!).
What are your special traditions for the week leading up to Christmas? And those of you who celebrated Hanukkah — was it wonderful? I hope so!
[Cross-posted to Livejournal]
