Music and Simple Pleasures

by D. V. Stone

My husband does The 25 Songs of Christmas on Facebook from December 1st to December 25th. He has 285 Christmas albums to choose from; yes, they are vinyl. Some are 45s, though most are 33. I’m his videographer, and he plays the albums, researches information about them, and then posts them. Because of an injury, and stairs are between him and his collections, I’m the one picking the music. So many songs to choose from. Some are traditional, then there’s the Three Stooges Christmas album.

According to Google, these are the Top Ten songs.

·         All I Want for Christmas Is You: By Mariah Carey

·         Last Christmas: By Wham

·         White Christmas: By Bing Crosby

·         The Christmas Song: By Nat King Cole

·         Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree: By Brenda Lee

·         Santa Claus is Coming to Town: By the Jackson 5

·         Underneath the Tree: By Kelly Clarkson

·         Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

·         The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire

According to D. V., my top ten, in no particular order

·         Mary Did You Know

·         The Little Drummer Boy (King and Country Version)

·         Silent Night

·         Angels We Have Heard on High

·         Go Tell It on the Mountain

·         Joy to the World

·         Holy Night

·         Away in the Manger

·         Hark the Herald Angels Sing

·         It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

What would you add to this list? We all have traditions and favorites. Our not-this-year due to Pete’s injury traditions begin with the annual cutting down of the tree the Friday after Thanksgiving. Then comes the above-mentioned Christmas videos. We’ll drive around on several nights and check out the Christmas lights in all the neighboring towns. In previous years, we hosted a party and often ended up outside around the fire, singing carols and roasting smores. Christmas Eve, we go to church. On Christmas morning, we host an open house for any friends, family, and neighbors who want to pop in. Pete mans the omelet bar, making them to order. He also makes cinnamon buns. Then, in the afternoon, we head to family for dinner and board games.

We don’t do much gift-giving. Honestly, none of us really need much more stuff—even my grandkids. What we do for them is a family gift and some stocking stuffers. The family gift is a camping gift certificate, so they get experiences and memories instead of things. So far, they’ve enjoyed Branson, MO, Texas, Kentucky, and other places—simple pleasures like a campfire and hiking.

Years ago, when my son was young, a friend of his was interviewed for the local newspaper. They ask what his favorite Christmas Memory was. This then twelve-year-old boy didn’t talk about toys and games but of taking a walk across a frozen lake in the snow with his family.

Right now, sitting looking out the window over the sink, thinking back, most of the best reminiscences weren’t of tangible goodies but of hanging out, telling stories, and making those memories. 

From my house to yours, wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Blessed New Year.

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In the spirit of Dickens, a delightfully sweet holiday story about family love and the opportunity for second chances.

An early storm is brewing in Upstate New York, and military wife Lacey Prescott is caught unprepared when it turns into a blizzard. Defeated by her own lack of preparation and the recall of her husband’s Christmas holiday leave, her joy in the season is replaced by bitterness and anger. In an unexpected turn of events, Lieutenant Matthew Prescott’s leave is reinstated. But the journey home is not an easy one since a Nor’easter stands between him and his family.

Amidst the storm’s fury, Lacey gets a glimpse of the past, present, and possible future, while Matt gets assistance from a mysterious stranger.

In a heartwarming story of determination, the resilience of the human spirit, and the unexpected kindness of strangers, the possibility of a Christmas reunion brings a sense of hope with a message of love and support from friends and family that embodies the true spirit of Christmas.

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D. V. Stone is known for her engaging and captivating storytelling, often weaving elements of romance, fantasy, and adventure into her novels. Her official website, dvstoneauthor.com, serves as a central hub for fans and new readers alike to explore her literary works, learn about upcoming book releases, and gain insights into her creative process. The site typically features detailed book descriptions, author blogs, and exclusive content such as interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at her writing journey. Additionally, visitors can find information on where to purchase her books, sign up for newsletters, and connect with DV Stone on social media. Whether you’re a long-time follower or new to her stories, dvstoneauthor.com offers a comprehensive and inviting space to immerse yourself in the world of DV Stone’s imagination.

“My greatest pleasures are spending time outside with friends and family, cooking over the open fire, sipping a glass of wine, and reading.”

Hali, her rescue dog, always reminds her to let readers know, “Woof, woof.” Which loosely translates to “support your local animal rescue.”

You can learn more about D. V. by following her on Social Media. Link tree for one-stop connections Link Tree