Favorite Albums of 2012 - Nos 4-1 !!!!

I hope you enjoyed this list of my favorites. To be sure, I'll be listening to them all night New Years Eve, then I start the year anew. I may tweet about the albums I hear as I go.

All of this obsessive activity on my part is to reach one simple goal: for me to have something good to listen to. I also have a desire to champion the greats, and nurture good musicians. To that end, please tweet me, comment, contact me in any way to let me know about good music that's out there.

2013 resolution: To hear more classical stuff. only one truly stands out this year.
Honorable Mention: The King's Singers - Pater Noster: A Choral Reflection on the Lord's Prayer
This King's Singers are a truly amazing classical group who have occasionally boosted their popularity by delving into pop music. When they have done so, the results have ranged from truly inspired to delightfully cheesy.  The fact remains, though, when they do classical music, there is no equal. On this album, they sing an eclectic program of settings of the Lord's Prayer and other sacred texts inspired by the sections of the prayer. It makes me want to find the sheet music to every piece and meditate on the texts as I sing the tenor part along with them. (Maybe that's just me.) I recommend this album to classical music fans, as well as deeply religious people.

4. Nightwish - Imaginaerum - A Warning to all fans of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Listening to Nightwish will make you realize how hacky TSO really are. This Finnish band is my favorite discovery of the year, a prog-rock band who seamlessly meld nearly EVERY style of music into their songs. Imaginaerum is a concept album that is about to spawn a feature film that looks pretty freakin' cool. The plot is about a composer who is lost in his own mind. Through therapy, his dreams come to life and his daughter, who is the therapist, discovers more about her father's history. The tunes range from awesome, to beautiful, to downright frightening. Overall, you'll want to keep listening, and will periodically go back to uncover more.

3. Bruce Springsteen - Wrecking Ball - Bruce has developed a new style of songwriting for himself, one that resembles Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie, and the folk singers of yesteryear. Wrecking Ball is the unofficial soundtrack for those suffering from the rough economy. From the new American Anthem, "We Take Care Of Our Own," which reminds politicians that we're supposed to care for those in need; to the heartbreaking "Jack of All Trades" which perfectly mimics every conversation I've had with my wife every time I've lost a job. The songs are a poignant reflection on the economic events of recent years from the perspective of the regular people who are suffering through it.

2. Alan Doyle - Boy on Bridge - A general search for Alan Doyle will also bring up "Alan Doyle and Russell Crowe." Fitting that while his writing partner is hopefully not ruining Les Miserables, Doyle is recording some rough, yet enjoyable music. Imagine the kind of Celtic/Australian/Folksy/Rock music you could probably expect from Crowe, and that's this album from this Canadian singer/songwriter. His songs are tuneful, riff heavy, and passionately sung. Give him a try.

1. Delta Rae - Carry the Fire - Listen to "Morning Comes." Now listen to "Bottom of the River." Kinda makes Lady Antebellum look like the Little Rascals don't it? This album BLEW ME AWAY. First of all, I'm a sucker for harmonies, and this band LIVES for them. Second, I did the celtic spin they put on country music. Finally, the songs are well written. Beyond that, though, they have that certain je ne c'est quoi that makes them unique, and my favorite new band of the year.

Favorite Albums of 2012 - Nos. 8-5

Sorry for the break. I was making rather merry over the holidays. But I'm back with the top 8!

By the way, I hope you are all taking my recommendations, and Spotifying, Rhapsodying, Pandoraing or Amazoning all of these albums immediately. Scroll down to see the full list! It's worth it. Psy may be getting all the internet hits; but these artists actually made great music!

8. Rita Wilson - AM/FM - Hey, that chick has the same name as Tom Hanks' wife! Wait... it IS Tom Hanks' wife! And, yes, she CAN sing. She's no American Idol, or winner of the X Factor or the Voice; and believe me, I mean that as a compliment. This album hearkens back to the old days, the 60s and 70s, back when you didn't need to blow us away with your voice, you just needed to sing, beautifully and well. While others are trying to make you believe that they're singing with soul and emotion, Wilson really IS. She takes on songs we know as being group numbers, such as songs by the Association and the Everly Brothers, and her reinterpretations of these songs as solos bring new life to them. Memories alone make this one a new standard on your mp3 player of choice!

7. Pentatonix - PTX Vol. 1 (EP) - They won the Sing-off, the greatest music program ever to be cancelled on television! Now they came out with TWO EPs and a slew of viral YouTube videos. They are probably the one really popular group out there that is truly deserving of their superstardom. Every song on Vol. 1 is a cover of another artists song, but their vocal arrangement makes these tunes, which suck in their original form, amazingly spectacular. When songs overloaded with production and artificiality are finally presented musically by a talented group of vocal stylists, magic happens. But PTX is more than just a pop group. Their Christmas album, "PTXmas" shows off their choral chops, and their musicality. I'm looking forward to their long amazing career.

6. Slash - Apocalyptic Love - Here's the thing: Guns and Roses in the "Appetite" days... RULE! Guns and Roses now, with just Axl Rose, doing Chinese Democracy... SUCKS. Slash's first two solo albums... AMAZING! So, I ask you, who was the reason for the band's success, really? Exactly. And on "Apocalyptic Love" all songs are sung by Myles Kennedy, who is a great singer who clearly worships at the altar of Axl, so if you loved "Appetite", you'll love this album!

5. The Beach Boys - That's Why God Made the Radio - It's like they never left. If you're young and don't realize how phenomenal the Beach Boys were; or if you're old, like me, and think that they just got old and "not as good as they used to be;" I have to tell you what really happened is they lost Brian Wilson. He didn't die, he just lost touch with the guys. But after some great solo albums, albums of covers of Disney and Gershwin, and finally finishing the last Brian-era Beach Boys album, Smile; he's back with the group, who were doing fine on their own, and the sum IS greater than the sum of their parts. Yeah, their voices are older, but they harmonize like never before. Thoroughly enjoyable and brilliant album.

Favorite Albums of 2012 - Nos. 12-9

OK... Getting up there now, about to break the top 10! I'm getting excited!

12. Steve Vai - The Story of Light - Always been a fan of Steve Vai. From when he played for David Lee Roth's solo albums, to playing ALL guitar parts on Whitesnake's "Slip of the Tongue" album, (the other guitarist had surgery and couldn't record.), to him playing Satan's guitarist in the movie "Crossroads."  He plays so well, he may just be possessed. The problem with many instrumental guitarists is that it shows off their awesome soloing TOO much, and the song becomes a 5 minute free form mess. Vai, on the other hand shows off his compositional skills and creativity on this album. The guitar is his voice as he interprets the awesomely passionate music.

11. John Mayer - Born and Raised - You may have noticed that I don't get very specific in these reviews. What is unique and special about this particular album? Well, as I mentioned at the onset, a lot of these albums are not anything new and innovative. New and Innovative often yields horrible and stupid. What's unique about this John Mayer album? Nothing. John Mayer is just a great songwriter, and this collection of his songs is simply great. He's a great guitarist, too, but "Born and Raised" doesn't show off his Guitar chops, it shows off his knack for lyric writing and great melodies. It's just great. Have I mentioned how great it is?

10. Tim McGraw - Emotional Traffic - If you told me 5 years ago that Tim McGraw would record one of my favorite albums this year, I'd have asked you to get your head examined. However, he did. And he did it by moving on from his redneck country origins, and incorporating more pop styles into his songs. The only real hick-y song is "Touchdown Jesus," but that song is just so great, I can forgive him.

9. Rush - Clockwork Angels - I really shouldn't have to tell you why Rush is so great. But even they have been getting overly arty on recent albums. "Clockwork Angels" returns them to the idea of a concept album, their first since Hemispheres. And for the first time in a while, their music is really accessible to the non-fanatic. If you're not a hardcore fan, and want to know what all the fuss is about, check out this album.

Favorite Albums of 2012 - Nos. 16-13

So, what does it benefit these artists to be selected my favorites of the year? Well, It should make them feel good that their excellence is recognized. I also want to toss out into the blogosphere energy directing people to this music. Much of it got lost while the mass media were directing our attention at One Direction and Carly Rae Jepsen.

Personally, I am following every artist on my list on Twitter and Facebook. I'm tagging them via twitter. I'm seeking out Christmas albums from all of them, and playing them wherever I go this holiday season. I may also actually PURCHASE their records! Financially supporting their endeavors.

That having been said, ON with the countdown. (cue cheesy radio tag: "NUMber six TEEEEEEN!")

16. Rascal Flatts - Changed - My regular readers know how I feel about country music. In a nutshell, I favor great songwriting over empty patriotism and redneckiness. I DO have an affinity for Rascal Flatts. Highlights of their career in my book are: Their cover of "Life is a Highway" for the soundtrack to Cars; their guest appearance on CSI; and this album. The sheer catchiness of their music draws me to it, and the perfect blend of pop sensibility and country authenticity.

15. Dave Matthews Band - Away From The World - Dave Matthews Band falls under the heading of "Jam Band." This means they're well known for improvising and riff based tunes. What makes them unique and special is also what makes them good. Matthews is free from pop conventions, and able to focus on creating riffs and melodies that are truly original. Also, the unique instrumentation of the band, including fiddle and sax, creates a truly unique sound that enhances these ditties.

14. Joe Walsh - Analog Man - Walsh is undoubtedly my favorite Eagle. I have fond memories of his music throughout my life; from "Space Age Whiz Kids" to "ILBTs" to "Rocky Mountain Way." On stage, he seems like a curmudgeonly old man, and the song "Analog Man" reflects an old-timey frustration with technology. But he's the real deal, and can still rock like the best of them. "Family" WILL make you cry, unless you have a heart of titanium.

13. Triosence with Sara Gazarek - Where Time Stands Still - Tied with Casey Abrams for Happiest Album of the Year. This German Jazz group plays with such a feel-good ease, you can't help but feel good listening to it. Vocalist Sara Gazerek delivers the beautiful melodies with a relaxed ease that makes it seem simple. Perfect cleaning the house music! (Gazarek also had an album of standards this year: "Blossom and Bee." Worth Checking out!)

Favorite Albums of 2012 - TOP 20-16

On a lighter note, I now give you my top 20 albums of the year. These ARE, to my best estimation in order of preference.

20. Rick Springfield - Song For The End of the World - Shut up! Yeah, Rick Springfield has a reputation for being cheesy bubble gum pop crap from the 80s. Those of us who are REAL fans, and have heard his later albums know he has some rock and roll and songwiritng chops to be reckoned with. Rick has a real dark side. I mean, REALLY think about the implications of "Jessie's Girl." This dark side shows a bit on "Songs For The End of the World," which delves into the subjects of self-loathing and redemption. The albums he did in the 80s sound like they're from the 80s, but the songs on this album can compete with some of the rock bands that are still around, and would win because of the songwriting alone. Give it a shot, and I dare you not to like it.

19. Missy Higgins - The Ol' Razzle Dazzle - This Australian singer had apparently had a long career, then quit for a few years, and now is back. And, she's great. Kind of a brit-pop kind of arrangement which focuses on backing vocals, and just enough reverb to make it sound retro. She toggles the line between Sara Bareilles-style singer/songwriting and Kylie Minogue-style dance pop. Check her out.

18. Alanis Morissette - Havoc and Bright Lights - The only pet peeve I have about Alanis Morissette, is  her insistence on emPHAsizing the offBEAT syLLAble. But, other than that, she writes a great song. I don't know why I haven't been listening to her more, after all, she's responsible for one of my favorite songs. ("Still" from the Dogma Soundtrack) This album really reacquainted me with her music.

17. Amy Ray - Lung of Love - In the Lennon/McCartney type partnership that is the Indigo Girls, Emily Saliers is the more lovely and melodic Paul McCartney, and Amy Ray is the rougher, more rocking John Lennon. This is the first solo album that I've heard of from her, (it's actually her 4th) and it's interesting to see what Ray can do on her own. It's like hearing the first Wings album, or more like the first Plastic Ono Band. If you're a fan, you WON'T be disappointed.

Favorite Albums of 2012 - Nos. 25-21

Using Rhapsody, I listened to the first track from every new album released each week. (Rhapsody has a "new release" section, plus I subscribe to New Releases Now, which lets me know all the obscure groups that come out every Tuesday.)
When an opening track catches my attention, I listen to it for a while, and then preview the entire album. Sometimes it works out, sometimes, not so much. The albums that I really enjoy are added to a special playlist I have and this becomes my "radio" for the year. So this list of "Best of's" isn't just a culmination, it's wrapping up a year of great tunes.


25. Brandi Carlile - Bear Creek - As the Most Interesting Man in the World might say, "I don't always listen to country music, but when I do, I prefer the REAL THING." Not hyperpatriotic rednecks braggin about how "country" they are; but rather real down home, dirty sounding, barefoot folk music. Brandi Carlile has a great mix of traditional country and modern pop music. It doesn't quite sound like the musicians are missing teeth, but the songs are simple, tuneful, and emotional. Her band is playing their heart out, and that makes this album very rewarding.

24. Sara Watkins - Sun Midnight Sun - The only way you could get more country than Brandi Carlile would be to get rid of the "pop-iness" from the songs. Then you would have Sara Watkins. She's made appearances on A Prarie Home Companion. But she's not doing bluegrass the way her grandpappy used to, she's doing bluegrass the way they SHOULD today. There's a reason why we hold on to traditional music forms like this, and every song on this album reminds you of that.

23. The Endangered - Some folks may be asking, "Hey! Where all the R&B at?" Well, I have to tell you, I'm not really a fan. You see, modern R&B just doesn't impress me much. I've started to develop a distaste for endless riffing over melodies, and imitation hip-hop songwriting. To me, it's a sign of LACK of talent. Which is why I'm so pleasantly surprised by The Endangered. Just when I was starting to think that ALL R&B has lost, well, it's soul; here comes this jazz infused R&B group to remind me of what I love about REAL Rhythm and Blues. It's only an EP, but the talent behind these 6 songs is enough to keep me coming back.

22. Yellowcard - Southern Air - Yellowcard is the kind of name for a band that doesn't distinguish it from others. The music, however, is excellent. The songs have a faux-punk pop sound that's just really enjoyable to listen to. Lots of groups follow this formula and end up being very plastic. These guys do it right, and in a way that yields great results. It'll become one of those albums you can't stop listening to.

21. Blues Traveler - Suzie Cracks the Whip - One of my Favorites from last year was John Popper's solo album with the Duskray Troubadors. On that album, he tried a more traditional country/blues sound. Now he's back with Blues Traveler, and theRrock is back. He also lays back on the harmonica, which has been in danger of being tiresome after about 5 songs in the past. It's more subdued on this album with the focus more on the songwriting. And no, I have no idea what the title means.

Favorite Albums of 2012 - Nos. 28-26

It is with great pleasure that I offer you the next three albums on my "best of" list.

I'm 42, and grew up a fan of Heavy Metal in the '80s. My generation is STILL into the hard stuff, even if the classically-trained part of me appreciates broadway and Opera and Jazz, I still enjoy the ability to Rock as well as the rest of them. These seem like very "youthful" albums, but I enjoy them nonetheless.

 28. The Offspring - Days Go By - Nothing annoys me more than a punk or hard rock band that refuses to evolve as they get older. Which is why I especially enjoy this album by The Offspring. They started out as an especially good punk band in the 90s. And they have evolved beyond the restrictions of punk, into more of a Arena Rock vein. But they still maintain their distictive Offspring sound. Still with the sarcastic rap parodies that remind you of "Pretty Fly (For A White Guy)," but not afraid to play a riff rather then incessant power chords. There's good variety on this album.

 27. Shinedown - Amaryllis - Shinedown is to Nickelback as Casey Abrams is to Jason Mraz. About as talented, but somehow cooler, and better. I'm not sure what it is. Perhaps it's how they seem to come more from a heavy metal background. Perhaps it's the more interesting riffs and melodies. Maybe, like Abrams, they're just less douche-y. Amaryllis is a great Hard rocking album. And the songs are unexpected just when they become in danger of being redundant.

  
26. Green Day - !Uno!, !Dos!, and !Tre! - After two amazing concept albums, and a Broadway show, I can see how Green Day would want to get back to simplicity. Basic, 50s-rock inspired punk, like most punk bands, favoring quantity over quality. No wonder they released THREE new Studio albums this year. That's over 30 or 40 three chord specials! There's just one problem, though... They're FREAKIN' GREEN DAY!!!! All three albums sound like they WANT to be mediocre or even ironically bad, in true punk fashion; but their sheer talent keeps stepping in and making the wannabe bad songs interesting and listenable, even fun. If it were me, I'd sift through the cheesy lesser tunes, and just release one kick ass album of the few masterworks, like "Oh, Love," interspersed amongst these three records; but that wouldn't be very punk now, would it?

Favorite Albums of 2012 - Nos. 32-29

First of all, let's be clear. I have 32 favorite albums of the year. The ones the bottom of the list are not my least favorite. They are at 32, only because I can only have one of each 1-31. Understand? All of these are great albums, and my choices at the top of the list ARE, indeed, my favorite favorite. But no disrespect to these highlighted today.

32. Casey Abrams - Casey's music sounds an awful lot like Jason Mraz, but with one major difference, Casey Abrams is not as douche-y. One of the newest members of that elite group, "Truly talented individuals who LOST on American Idol," (He was the bearded guy) this debut album shows off his real talent. Abrams plays nearly all the instruments on this album and sings in a way that makes him seem like a cross between Mraz and Bruno Mars. This also gets my vote for HAPPIEST ALBUM of the year. I double dog dare you to be in a bad mood while these songs are on. Even the saddest song on the record just makes you feel GOOD.
(By the way, I gave "Love is a Four Letter Word" another listen, and truth be told, I like Abrams better. Why? Well, for example, Abram's song, "Stuck in London" switches from 3/4 to 4/4. Mraz has a song called "5/6" on his album that switches between 5/8, 6/8 and even 9/8. Now, I'm a fan of multi-meter, (Rush is coming up soon) But here's the real difference: Abrams switched meters FOR A REASON. It lends itself to the rhythm of the song. Mraz just seems to be showing off the fact that he can do it, and it actually ends up taking away from the song. This is the difference between them for me, Abrams seems more sincere, and Mraz just sounds like a douche.)

31. Rosie Thomas - With Love If Casey Abrams is the happiest album of the year, Rosie's album is the most Melancholy. Which is weird, because she's one of the perkiest, cutest, and funniest people when she's not singing. But all of these songs ring true with remembrance and love, but with that ache of the NEED for love. Her choices in arranging the album are unique, and lend themselves to make the songs more enjoyable. She also just released a holiday album, which I can't wait to hear. You'll just fall in love with her.

30. Eve 6 - Speak in Code - Remember Eve 6? They had that big hit in the 90s with "Inside Out." ("Wanna put my tender heart in a blender?") Well, after 2 or 3 not so popular albums, and a change in personnel, they're back with "Speak in Code." Their website describes them as "pop-punk" but I don't hear that in the music. Their sound on this album resembles '80s pop, and not the chessy kind; rather the kind that was too good to be that popular. I'm a fan of the "nice melody over interesting chord changes" style of songwriting. The tunes are just addictive and infectious. A very enjoyable album.

29. Heart - Fanatic - I'm convinced of it. Heart can do no wrong. Even their '80s Hair-band, Diane Warren loving period kicked ass! This new album is just Ann and Nancy Wilson doing what they do best once again. "Fanatic" is a great mix of songs that remind you they started out as a Led Zeppelin Cover Band; and songs that highlight their beautiful blending harmonies. Like 2010's "Red Velvet Car," all I really need to say is, "Hey, Heart has a new record out!" And the rest should go without saying.

Favorite Albums of 2012 - Honorable Mention

Well, here we are, another year's gone by... (Oooohhh and I want a BICYCLE!!!!!) A very interesting year in music. I've listened to at least 5 seconds of the first track of nearly EVERY album released this year, and I have to tell you... I'm not impressed.

This is the time of year that everyone does their "Best of" lists, and I've listened to most of the albums on that list, and I have to tell you...  there was some CRAP out this year. And much of it made the top 10!

In my opinion, a band can be innovative, unique, emotive, and create a distinctive sound; but me puking on a litter of cats while a piano falls on all our heads is all those things, but it's not good music! Much of my "Best of" list is music that doesn't do anything really new, these artists do the same thing they've always done, and they do it incredibly well.

I do have some rules, however, no live albums, or greatest hits. And some are at the bottom of my list for just this reason. So... let's count 'em down.

Jimmy Fallon - Blow Your Pants Off - In hindsight, Jimmy Fallon was an inspired choice to take over Late Night when Conan O'brien got screwed. We, the fans, didn't know what to expect, but he delivered. WELL. His comedy relies on references from my generation's youth, and a bit of playful irony. But he builds on his comic strength, musical jokes. If you remember his holiday parodies on SNL, or his mega hit, "Idiot Boyfriend," you have an idea of what to expect from this "Best of Late Night." To get the jokes, you kinda had to be there watching, but still, the randomness of most of this album is just silly enough to be worth listening. This IS one of my faves, but I can't count it. I can't with good conscience tell you that I'd rather listen to a song called "Balls In Your Mouth" than any other song released this year. (Although I kinda would!)

Glen Hansard - Rhythm and Repose - I love Glen Hansard. I love his band "The Swell Season." I LOVE the movie and the musical "Once." And yes, I like this album very much. Only like? yes. Why? As awesome as his music may be, and as emotional his performance, every song starts off mellow and subdued, and then gradually builds to a passionate subdued end. EVERY. Song. In the car, it takes about a minute before I realize the song has even started. Once you're in it, though, it's totally worth it. So, this is a "sit-in-your-living-room-easy-chair-with-headphones-on-and-a-glass-of-courvoisier" type of album. Worth it, worthy of the notoriety Hansard has achieved in recent years, but not for cruising.

Jeffrey Gaines - Live in Europe - This album serves the purpose of many live albums, it introduces new fans to Gaines' music all in one shot. But what's special about this album is the performance. It's just Gaines and a guitar, and his voice, possibly a bass. That's it. The roughness and the simplicity of the arrangement shows off the quality of the songs. He's got a soulful rasp to his voice, and he sings about specific hardships in his life, but with a wisdom of age that waxes philosophical, and without ignoring the audience's enjoyment of the tune. When he releases a studio album of new material, it'll TOTALLY be higher up, but a collection of greats like this gets honorable mention, and several thousand plays on my device.

Tori Amos - Gold Dust - Last year, Tori wrote a classical song cycle called "Night of the Hunter." It made my best of 2011 list, because it was amazing! It must have inspired her to revisit some of her greatest hits in an orchestral setting. You'll find "Silent All These Years," "Yes, Anastasia," "Cloud on My Tongue" and many of her best with new arrangements and performances that send already near perfect music over the top. However, it's technically a greatest hits collection, so I can't include it, although it's one of my favorites.

Starting Tomorrow, We start the countdown of the top 32 Albums of the year!

War on Christmas, Part 5 - The Return

Really, people? Really? Are we still arguing the so-called "WAR on Christmas?" Really?

First of all, to those of you new to this blog, Welcome! And catch up on the first 4 chapters of my dissertation here: In Summary - The "War on Christmas" is Stupid; The "War on Christmas" is Anti-semitic; The focus of the "War on Christmas" on Christmas Trees is Stupid; and The "War on Christmas" is NOT, in fact, Christian!

That having been said, I have to confess something. I think they have a point! We SHOULD "Keep Christ in Christmas." This holiday is beautiful because it's an amazing blend of the sacred and the frofane. Everyone's getting ripped on Egg Nog, because it's Jesus' Birthday, damnit! My electric bill is through the roof from all the lights on my house... for Jesus! I love all the secular elements of this season, but I really do believe that it shouldn't take away from the sacred elements of the season.

I'm coming from a unique perspective: I have researched this over the course of many years in writing my holiday musical, "The Legend of Saint Nicholas." So, I understand that to a certain extent, performing the secular acts associated with Christmas IS THE SAME as keeping Christ in Christmas.

I don't mind Santa Claus coming to my house, because I know that St. Nicholas was a Catholic priest, known for his extreme generosity. Following Jesus' instruction: “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets... But when you give to the needy... your giving may be in secret;" (Matthew 6) Nicholas gave his gifts in secret, sneaking into people's houses and hiding gifts in their stockings. Therefore, continuing that tradition IS keeping Christ in Christmas.

The Christmas Tree is a pagan symbol, but it's been adopted by Christians because of its symbolism. The triangular shape of most trees is a symbol of the Trinity. The fact that it's an evergreen is symbolic of everlasting life. I always find it morbidly ironic that cutting down a live tree and in a sense, killing it, is to symbolize everlasting life, which is why my tree is a fake one. But ON the tree we hang decorations, often ornaments that we collect over the course of our family's life together. The act of decorating is a family get together in and of itself. Dedication to family... very Christian indeed.

Shopping? Oy, vey. We scramble to buy just the perfect gift. We often put ourselves into debt to commercialize the holiday. But don't forget, we're giving to emulate the giving of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh to the Baby Jesus. Since I'm pretty sure my Uncle Joe would NOT appreciate me giving him Myrrh; instead, I look for gifts he may need or want, to make his life a bit happier. The first gifts, given by Saint Nicholas were needs, not wants. And according to my musical, and the book on which it is based, ("The Autobiography of Santa Claus,") he decided to focus his giving on Children, and the best gift for children is a toy. Food will be eaten, then you're hungry again. Clothing will be outgrown. Most acts of Charity are temporary. The way to make a lasting impression on a child's life is to spark their imagination, and give them the gift of happiness and hope. I'm pretty sure Jesus would approve.

When we say, "Keep Christ in Christmas," let us not do so by abandoning those secular traditions, but rather let us strive to understand them, change the WAY we do them, and most importantly, teach our children what's really important about them.