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Friday, December 5, 2008

A LITTLE BIT SERIOUS, A LITTLE BIT ROCK 'n'ROLL


by Bon'O

Those of you who've come to 'know' me here, know I love me some music! In the spirit of "The Season", my thoughts for an interesting blog topic of course turned to what I thought would be a fun Mini-Survey for us to share. But, given the state of the world, I've also been a bit haunted by a particular song and wanted to share...but how?


So...First a Tribute: CHRISTMAS IN THE TRENCHES........and then A FUN LITTLE OWL SURVEY~~~

There's one song, which tells of a true moment in history~~Christmas, 1914~~that touches me to the core each time I hear it. I added it to my Christmas playlist, and find myself all goosebumps and tears whenever it plays. Yet somehow, I'm encouraged by it.....hoping someday we will realize that "on each end of the rifle, we're the same", and wars WILL be over. This is, IMO, a beautiful video. If you care to watch, please think of your loved ones and mine who have fought, and are still fighting, so that we at home can be blessed with holiday cheer.




NOW, PUT AWAY THE TISSUES, AND TELL US ABOUT YOUR HOLIDAY SONGS......I can't wait to see what you have to say!


1) My absolute favorite traditional holiday song is__________________ as done by ______________________.

2) My favorite 'hip' holiday song is ________________________ performed by __________________________.

3) The holiday song I absolutely CANNOT stand is _____________________________________!!

4)The holiday song that most brings back happy memories is ____________________ because :

(Go ahead! We LOVE long stories!!) _____________________________________.

301 comments:

  1. Great blog Bon!! Ok, lets see....

    My fav traditional song is "The Little Drummer Boy"

    My fav "new" (not sure it can be called "hip")song is "Christmas Shoes" (gives me goosebumps everytime)

    The one I can't stand??? Easy!! "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer"

    I need more coffee for the fav memory one.....

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  2. I have it!!! I'm not sure how old I was, but I was in Girl Scouts and our troop was selected to sing Christmas carols in a nursing home. We all worked very hard on our program and I was selected to sing a solo. The song I was assigned was "O Tannenbaum",("O Christmas Tree") completely in German! I was very excited and also very nervous. I sang that song night and day. (I think my parents even learned the words)

    The day finally came for our recital and it went off with out a hitch. My solo was the last song. Afterwards, a teeny tiny woman resident came up to me and asked me if I spoke German. When I told her all I knew were the words to that song, with tears in her eyes, she thanked me for learning it and told me how much it meant to her to hear her native language again.

    I never forgot that....or the words to the song...

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  3. Hello??? Where is everyone???

    Wake up Lynndeeeeeeeee!!!!

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  4. Carol...Just caught up on the comments...I am out of the loop (as usual)but wanted you to know you have my utmost trust and support...

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  5. Scirish:
    Hi! Congrats on First, and thank you, where the heck is Lynnd...

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  6. Bon:
    I love your blog today, when I read it, I was blown away, the writing, the picture, the video, just terrific and so well thought out..

    Thanks Bon, for todays blog, for all your other blogs, for your kindness, and most of all friendship...

    :O)

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  7. Bon:
    Yes, I am going to answer your questions cause I love them all, I just need some time to think about them...

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  8. crap...i was going to be second!!!

    scirish.....congrats on 1st~

    carol~ congrats on second~

    bon~ will answer from work~

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  9. Happy Friday!!!

    Good Morning...

    Scirish - congrats on first!!

    waving howdy to Scirish, cpgem, and tina and all who land!!

    Bono - great blog - thank you for sharing....... I have to get ready for the bug spraying guy - bbl to answer the questions!!

    I hope everyone has an excellent day!!
    :-)

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  10. Good morning and congrats on 1st Scirish!

    Bonnie great blog! I was wondering who would bring up Christmas music. I should have known it would be you. Lol!

    Traditional or new I like "Jingle Bells". Barbra Streisand has a good version. I can't stand the drummer boy song,(sorry Scirish). His "rum ba bum bum " gives me a headache. Not sure if I have favorite that evokes special memories. Like Sarah Palin said...I'll get back to ya on that one.

    Got to go help a friend decorate cookies. I think she wants me to stay all day cause the kids want to put the tree up after school and they want me to watch. Not sure if I'll stay or not. See ya all later.

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  11. Good Morning Hooters!

    Congrats Scrishy.

    Bon Bon- love the blog!

    My fav is "Silent Night" as played on the wind up gold bell I have had since birth (It's an anitque now!) Also the old "Baby it's cold Outside" by Dean Martin.

    My newest fav is Alan Jacksons 'Let it be Christmas"

    My can't stand is: hmmm. I dont' think I have one.

    I hope everyone has a good, calm day. Remember the source!

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  12. Good morning Carol, Tina and Mek!

    Bonnie loved the video.

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  13. Actually Carol, I think you are much more than a "Super" for this blog.

    It came about because you took the initiative to start it.

    It continues because you feed and nurture it. You're the one taking the time to write and post the blogs, look for pictures and videos to go with the blogs and even correct any errors in the blogs that are submitted to you.

    After all that, someone feels they have the right to criticize your decisions and make you feel so bad that you have to take a break from here? WTF???

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  14. That, Bon'O, was absolutely brilliant! I AM in tears here!

    WWI just sends chills up and down my spine, the unbelievable scope of the death and the suffering. 15 million people: who cares, now, what "side" they were on. If you read the history of the events that precipitated the war, there were no "good guys and bad guys", just nation states primed with all the necessary apparatus to murder their fellow human beings on a breathtaking scale.

    And if that's not enough misery for you, how about 18 million more? That's the number killed in the flu pandemic that broke out right at the end of the war.

    Our two greatest enemies, war and disease, all rolled up into four years.

    I wonder if the day will ever come where the truth expressed so forcefully in the video is embraced by all.

    Let's raise a glass this Christmas, owls. To the hope that someday, the world's nation states will stop spending the trillions of dollars they do every year to maintain the same military apparatus that not only supported WW1, but perhaps made it inevitable.

    Let's raise a glass to the hope that they will instead begin to spend the money on the real enemies of humankind: disease, poverty, and ignorance.

    That they will instead spend the money on new technologies and new frontiers that don't kill and maim and ruin people's lives, but instead inspire and enrich and engage them.

    Good morning, Scrishy!

    Thanks, Bon'O !!

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  15. Morning Glories!

    Scrishy I'm awake, well kind of, my physical misery of this week just continues. In the spirit of Christmas I will say congratulations on first! :)

    Bon that video had me in tears. It just kept popping into my head that if you could take the time on Christmas day to lay down your weapons why not forever? How sad is that.

    One of my favorite Christmas songs is Silver Bells. I have to say the Marie Osmond version is one of the best.

    I don't know about hip holiday songs but I do love a local song called Christmas in the Northwest.

    I don't know if there is a song I can't stand but after working retail for many years I am good for about two weeks of Christmas music and then my last nerve gets frayed! LOL

    One Christmas I was in a church Choir I was about 10, I was given the soprano solo because I was the only person who could hit a very high note and hold it. I remember it was finally the performance and I hit it right on and held it and held it. Everyone was so amazed.

    What I remember about this was that I could not talk the next day. LOL I don't even remember what the damn song was. I gave it my all tho.

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  16. I have decided not to take a break, there is no reason to, a little conversation, some sleep, and strong coffee this morning put everything into perspective.

    I like the nest, and the ppl that are here. If anyone does not like it here or anyone in it, you are welcome to leave, you do not have to stay. Actually do yourself a favor and don't even read it, however I know in my heart many ppl read, and it is beyond me why, if one does not like some fun, like cyber meals, or marching, why they would read it at all.

    The nest and the ppl in it, have never bashed anyone in a comment or anyone's blog once they left the nest.

    When a comment is inappropriate I delete it I don't let it stay for days, just to prove a point.

    And if anyone wants to say this is my blog, then go ahead and say it, I will stand up for this blog, and if that means I have to claim it then I shall. There are several class acts in this world, I am one of them, and very proud to be.

    I have friends here, and I stand behind each one.

    It is strange to me how some want this nest to fail, I actually think some can't wait for the day that the nest is no longer, what a shame, that one can wish failure on others, it baffles me.

    If ever that day comes, I will promise you this, I will be the last owl standing, waving my wings, and wishing all happiness and smiles, perhaps with a tear, but some great freakin memories..

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  17. Good Morning!!

    BON: Yay! I love answering questions like this!

    Fave traditional song is "The Christmas Song" by either Frank Sinatra or The Carpenters. I also love "Ave Maria" by Luciano Pavarotti.

    "Hip" song: "Wizards in Winter" by Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

    Song I can't stand: "Grandma Got Run Over..."

    Happy Memories: "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree"..cuz when I was little, my dad would hold my hands while I stood on his feet..and we would dance. Also "Feliz Navidad" because whenever we played it, the whole family would join in..it's such a happy song and still makes me smile!

    Can I add one?? I love "I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas"..this would be under the catagory.."I don't know why I like this song..but I do" ;)

    Great blog BON'O..thank you!!

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  18. Whabby:
    You have always been so supportive of me and the nest..

    Many Special Thanks!

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  19. CPGEM: Bravo!!! I will always be right here with you...

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  20. Zona:
    "I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas".."

    What the heck, I have never heard of that song before...

    :O)

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  21. CPGEM: Thank you...you're the best. For reals. :D

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  22. CPGEM: It's on my MS player..but it isn't sung by Shirley Temple like they say..I don't know if they do know who sings it.

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  23. HERE, HERE, and 3 CHEERS for Carol!!!!!!

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  24. Scirish:
    I nurture because of you all!

    Thanks

    :O)

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  25. Goldie:
    I can sure use a brownie... :O)

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  26. Shirley:
    Breakfast is def in order, and perhaps some flowers, I adore white carnations..

    :O)

    BTW..
    Whats the count?

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  27. Zona:
    Shirley Temple, well than that explains it.. I was thinking Celine Dion and was just not picturing her voice with that song..

    :O)

    Geez, I just jogged a memory, does anyone remember have "Shirley Temple" drinks as a child when all the adults were boozing it up?

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  28. Whabby...Ditto!

    Carol...Way to go!

    Lynndeeee...Thank you...I was hoping you were feeling better.

    Shirley..Sounds like fun!

    Howdy..to MEK, Zona and Goldie!

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  29. Tina:
    When is Eunice going to put her Christmas Outfit on? don't you think she deserves at least a Christmas Hat?

    :O)

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  30. And Scirish, your owl shop needs some Christmas Lights...

    :O)

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  31. Goldie:
    Perhaps Christmas Tassles on your's
    Red is just so pretty when it hangs...

    :O)

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  32. SCIRISH: Congrat on "FIRST?" ;)

    What a sweet memory Of singing "Oh Tannenbaum"!

    TINA: Congrats on 11...add it together..and you've got second! lol..

    MEK: Remember...someone is sleeping upstairs! ;)

    SHIRLEY: Love your avatar! I like Barbra Streisand's version of "Jingle Bells" too...so frickin' fast! i don't know how she does it.

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  33. Shirley:
    Love your snowman! So cute..

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  34. *Area 51 *

    Donna Jean...I had a Lhasa that would get carsick and we tried EVERYTHING!! What finally worked was a doggie car seat. It strapped to the seat and strapped her in. She was up high enough so she could see out the window and PRESTO! No more car sickness!

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  35. Carol, I remember "Shirley Temples" How grown-up I felt swirling my swizzle stick!!

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  36. GOLDIE: I'm worried..I think your avatar needs a coat for Christmas...lol..

    HI BEAR!!!

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  37. Scirish:
    Yes, oh my, I used to sit up on the bar stool and drink it, and then always saved the cherry for last, even tho I did not like the cherry I still saved it for last and then ate it.. Just like you do with the Olive from a Martini..

    I felt so grown up..

    :O)

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  38. CPGEM: Loved Shirley Temples..fave part was the cherry!

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  39. Zona:
    The cherry is always the best part :O)

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  40. Birdee:
    I got the popcorn a poppin, where the heck are ya?

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  41. Oh boy Carol I just had a Shirley Temple flash back! LOL I seem to remember having one with my candy cigarette! LMAO Hmmm wonder if that is how I started smoking?

    PS hated the cherry too! I would always give mine away after I finished the drink.

    Oh boy I read that last sentence and things did not change as an adult!

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  42. LYNND!!! I'm sorry I missed you!Candy cigarettes were the best. Cherries were meant to be given away ya know... ;)

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  43. Good Morning Everyone!

    I hope today is a better day for Everyone.
    I did not post yesterday, but I did read. It was very sad and upsetting to say the least.

    I wish it would all stop! While I can try to understand and maybe even sympathize, It is Not my fight.....so to speak.
    The only thing I know is that I enjoy this blog and the people here. Whether I join in by posting or just read.
    You all are unique, funny, heartwarming, caring people.

    I also know that I adore and respect Carol!!! She created this blog site so we could all have a place to gather, to share our stories, old or new, happy or sad.
    She put's alot of time and energy and most of all her Heart into it.

    We may not alway's agree on thing's, and that's OK! It really is!! What should Not happen, is for Carol to be put in the middle.
    She can not solve our problem's...only her own! She has a family to care for and a business to run. In between those thing's, she would like to have some Fun!
    We are all adult's here and should really try to mend any misunderstanding's on our own.
    The written word is not alway's easy to understand. Like, if something is meant to be funny, it may not alway's read that way. So..when in doubt, maybe we should try to clearify before we jump to conclusion's. I'm not saying that is what is going on now, it's just an example. Try to go to the person that you may have misunderstanding's/issue's with and try to work it out. Hopefully...you can.

    I know some have left the nest and I'm truly sorry about that and I miss them!!! I would hate for anyone else to leave!

    I, for one, am going to try and make this a better day...breathe, take a step back, calm myself and regroup.
    I'm sorry for the pain/hurt feeling's any of you may be
    feeling today!

    This time of year can be so happy, yet very stressful for all. Emotion's can be so raw, with having to worry about finance's, job's, health problem's,
    family..etc....
    I'm in no way trying to make light of what is going on or anyone's feeling's. Please understand that! I would love for all this to be resolved so we can enjoy the Holiday's and enjoy another year together!!!

    I probably should have made this post yesterday..but didn't! It has taken me three hour's to put my word's down and I'm still not sure I should hit "post".

    So.....here goes...It is what it is....
    I hope you understand what I'm trying to say and how I feel♥

    Hell...I hope I understand ME! ;o)

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  44. Good Morning Friends
    I am rushing out again. My youngest daughter finally sent me her Christmas wish list and I am off to do the last of my shopping. We are going early. I promise I will be back this afternoon and will read everything. Love, Tinka

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  45. Carol...I just read your post...
    Love it!!!!


    And.....Please...No Salt on the popcorn!!! LOL

    Love to you and Everyone!

    ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

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  46. OH!! Scirish..Congrats on First....

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  47. Geez Birdee, after that post I need more popcorn.. :O)

    Thanks!

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  48. Birdee, that was very well said, I agree with you 100%. That was a beautiful post and I can tell you put a lot of time and thought into it. You my dear are also a class Act!!!!! Thats why I love you!!!!
    You always make me feel better.

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  49. Brrrrrrr. Frosty Good Morning!

    Scirish, I LOVE you! Your 9:10 post started my day with tears...of JOY!

    Carol~~MUAH!

    Tina~~I'll be waitin'. btw, got snow yet?

    MEK~~Send those bugs up here. They'll freeze to death! I know it's much colder in other Owls' nesterhoods, but I was a bit surprised by a frosty 24* this morning.

    Shirley~~I'm with you on 'The Drummer Boy'. It's probably in my bottom 5, too. I think it's the repetition factor. I bore easily. LOL @ your Sarah impression. Go bake cookies with kids...create a new Happy Christmas memory...come back and share!

    Goldie~~I, too, love Dean's 'Baby, It's Cold Outside'. I have a kinda sexy Harry Connick/Leanne Womack version on my playlist that really makes me smile, too.

    Bear~~YOUR POST....more than "brilliant"!

    (still reading...be back in a few)

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  50. LynnD~~Oh, how I wanted 'Christmas in the Northwest' for my playlist. Heard it on the radio for the first time this year yesterday...."the gift God made in green". YES!

    Zona~~I can just see you and your dad, rockin' 'round the tree! Who knew Frank Sinatra would be among your favorites?!?

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  51. Double decker brownies for Carol on the way (I'm sure she will share).

    Birdee.... so well said.

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  52. Carol/Birdee~~So very well-said. I hope to be here for the long haul. And, I thank YOU ALL for showing up! After yesterday's recurring drama---and having sent this blog to Carol almost a week ago---I told her I figured it might be a very lonely place today. You've renewed my faith in our abiding friendships. As I mentioned to someone last night, there may be the occasional post that disappoints, but leaving would be like saying " "Look at this beautiful new home Carol built for me! Isn't it warm and cozy? BUT, if anyone ever breaks in, I'm just going to give them the keys, and move out and live on the street." That doesn't work for me......as I said earlier, it's COLD out there!

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  53. Stealing some brownies on my way through!

    Birdee I love your post! All of the posts actually! You guys are the best and that is why I keep hanging out here!

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  54. Oh Bon it is freaking cold here this morning too! Looks like someone frosted everything last night!

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  55. Lynn~~No kidding! Bright sun, but everything's still white. btw, meant to say "a gift God WRAPPED in green.

    FINALLY writing (notice I didn't say MAKING) cards today kids. If you haven't already, feel free to send me an addy...need hot coffee and more of your Survey Song stories to keep me going. Bring 'em on!!

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  56. Bon, fantastic blog! OH my, how the tears flowed!!

    Whabby, I'm with you 100%!

    Carol, I'm glad you came back and thrilled to see you claiming the class act title. Too often those with nurturing souls will downplay their role or forget to take credit for all they do. Without so much as a hint of sarcasm (in case someone chooses to read it that way), I say "BRAVO!" to you!!

    Birdee, well said! "BRAVO!" to you as well! (also no sarcasm)

    Goldie, pass some of those brownies this way. Um, on second thought, were they baked by your nekkid avatar? Did she at least put on an apron?!!

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  57. Good afternoon OWLETTES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Scirish ... congrats on 1st!!

    Again!!!


    Carol... SOOOOOOO wonderful to see you this day....

    Morning Tina!!!

    Morning MEK...

    Morning ..Shirley!!!!
    enjoy your day with the kids... that is so much fun ...

    Goldie... you are right... double batch needed for today!!!

    Whabby ..well said....morning!!!

    lynnD... morning... you are very late today!!!

    Zona... rocking with you!!!

    Birdee... Tinka...morning loves...

    Bono... Morning!!!!

    Hope I didn't miss anyone!!!!

    lets see about the list now...




    1) My absolute favorite traditional holiday song is "White Christmas" as done by(not so traditional) The Drifters.

    2) My favorite 'hip' holiday song is _"Santa Claus is Comin' to Town" performed by Bruce Springsteen

    3) The holiday song I absolutely CANNOT stand is Grandma got run over... !! And sorry tink....
    but I can't stand Elvis doing Blue Christmas.. I think he sounds DRUNK!!!

    4)The holiday song that most brings back happy memories is "The little Drummer Boy.".. because I remember sitting with my family watching the show on TV and having my MOM sing along.. I used to love to hear her sing that song!!! every time I hear it i get teary eyed!!! :

    My new modern favorite is.... Clay Aiken.. "Mary DId YOu Know"... I think he just sings that song soooo beautifully .. I get teary every time hear it...

    I am sure more have flown by since I started this 30 minutes ago....
    waving a wing at you all...

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  58. Outatuune...
    waving a wing...
    from yesterrday...
    Thank you...

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  59. My answers to Bon's questions tend to vary depending on time of day, what songs I've heard recently, and how many brownies I've eaten but here goes:

    1) My absolute favorite traditional holiday song is "Do You Hear What I Hear" as done by most anybody. When the music swells, so does my heart...it gets to me every time.

    2) My favorite 'hip' holiday song is "Christmas Wrapping" by the Waitresses.

    3) The holiday song I absolutely CANNOT stand is MAYbe "Grandma got run over", but it depends on my mood.

    4)The holiday song that most brings back happy memories is "The Christmas Song". I remember coming home from school to the smells of cookies baking or fudge being made while Christmas LPs were playing on the hi-fi. My mom was awesome at making Christmas special!

    I was just listening to a chorale group singing "Christmas Time is Here" on the Today Show. It brought back warm memories of Mom making old-fashioned popcorn and old-fashioned hot cocoa (the kind that gets a 'skin') with tons of marshmallows, and putting out plates of fudge, cookies, crackers, cheese, etc. Then we'd gather around the TV with our goodies to watch 'A Charlie Brown Christmas', Rudolph, Frosty, or any of those terrific Christmas animations of the 60's.

    Mom's been gone two years now but I know she's near because my sense of her is very strong at the moment.

    Goodness, my eyes are leaking again...

    Okay, today is my day off and have a TON of things to accomplish, the first being to make a list of things to do so I can prioritize.

    Let's see...finish decorating the tree & house...add to Christmas card list...start packing list for TX/OK trip...shop for some warmer clothes for trip...start addressing Christmas cards...

    I can check off getting Christmas stamps, did that yesterday! :0)

    I'd love to do some holiday baking but that will have to wait. Hmm, maybe I'll do some baking in OK with my MIL. That sounds like fun! Again, no sarcasm cuz my MIL is awesome! Maybe I'll get YH to make us his delish spiced wine to sip as we bake. Too bad we don't have the right ingredients for brownies, lol!

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  60. Bonnie...
    I just love this topic today... I have about 30 different christmas CD's... I love christmas music...

    I love Love love... Santa Baby by Ertha Kitt...

    Rockin' around the Christmas tree...

    Jingle Bell Rock..

    And of course all the old traditional ones...

    I love to play them while I am baking and writing my cards...
    gets me in the mood...

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  61. slid right into that one... It always nice to get an unexpected 69!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  62. IBB~~**huge smile**We have SUCH the same taste in Christmas music! Drifters "IY-IY'-IY-IY'm Dreamin...of a white(white)Christmas" Triple love it!!! Ditto, Clay Aiken's 'Mary, did you know'. It's on my MS; I think it's the best of many great versions. And I, too, was thinking of how I could admit to Tinka that my VERY, VERY #1 least favorite is Elvis's 'Blue Christmas'....I'd like it fine if they'd take out the woo-oo-oo-oo-oo's. Makes me seasick!

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  63. Outatuune~~The Waitresses, eh? YAY, a new one for me to check out! Unless it rings a bell when I hear it...going looking right now....multi-tasking: cards and tunes....a good day!

    and now we're even, 'cuz you made me teary with your memories of the old LPs and Mom in the kitchen at Christmas ~~ among my best memories. My mom made divinity, rocky road, peanut butter fudges, peanut brittle, date/nut yule logs; I can taste it all now...but the best ever was getting to butter up our hands for the butterscotch taffy pull! Stretching it into lo-o-o-ng strips, letting it harden and then wrap each little morsel in waxed paper. Yummy memories!

    IBB~~Yep, Eartha Kitt's 'Santa Baby'....on the playlist!

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  64. Bon, I just read the new home analogy. BRAVO!

    You know what? Each of the owls here deserves a BRAVO because it's your presence that makes this nest what it is.

    Hugs to all!!

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  65. Well Bonnie...
    I figured If I was going to tell that my favorite memory had already been listed as some LEAST fovorite... i could be honest and Tinka would never take offense with us...

    and to redeem myself... I have very near to me... The Essential Elvis Presley...
    has 40 songs on it...
    SOOO many good songs on that!!!!
    A Little Less Conversation is one of my all time favorites...

    oh well... I LOVE MUSIC!!!!!!!!

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  66. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  67. IBB, you convinced me! I'm going to play Christmas music, bake, and write my Christmas cards at my MIL's house next week while she and YH recall their favorite Christmas memories.

    Spending some holiday time with my MIL is the closest I can get to going home since she still lives in the house where YH grew up.

    I'm sooooo looking forward to this trip!

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  68. that deleted post is mine... My Novel from earlier posted again... not sure how that happened...

    outatuune...
    so glad Iconvinced you...
    I enjoy going to my MIL and doing stuff with her...
    SIL has hurt that also... Sorry to say... I think she poisons everything she touches...

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  69. Outatuune~~The Waitresses--found it, COOL! I remember 'I Know What Boys Like'. Your song gave me a Deborah Harry 'Rapture' flashback for some reason :-)

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  70. sorry... back to good thoughts,.... Christmas music... I am looking up things on u-tube... oh my they haaaaaaave sooo much!!!!

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  71. Finished my shopping. Be back after my nap. I think I need a back and hand transplants. I wonder if they are available.

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  72. Hello, my little Owlies!

    BonO Brilliant blog today! That YouTube video really brings out the true meaning of Christmas, doesn't it? I'm very touched by it. Thank you, Bon.

    I have some Christmas music by Johnny Mathis that I really enjoy and also a cd of Christmas songs done on acoustic guitar. I really love that one.

    My favorite "hip" Christmas song is "Christmas, Baby Please Come Home" by Darlene Love. Here's a YouTube video of her singing it on David Letterman's show. It's a yearly tradition. It always puts me in a great mood.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXVcrWO5FCg

    The Christmas song(s) I really can't stand are the one by the Chipmunks and Jingle Bells by the barking dogs. Hideous!

    Probably the one that reminds me most of my childhood is Silent Night, although I think all the traditional songs do.

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  73. Speaking of hideous, it is after 12:30 and I am still in nightgown and robe! I really need to get off my butt and do something. BBL

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  74. GOOD AFTERNOON NESTMATES

    HI BON aka MARTHA STEWART, Thank you for your wonderful piece today. So many thoughts and feelings run through me after reading it and listening to the music.

    It makes me recall the movie "Silent Night", where German and American soldiers come together at the Christmas table.

    How sad that there are people who choose to teach ignorance and division. We aren't born that way.

    AVE MARIA is one of my favorites.
    I am not fond of the Otis Elevator type carols.
    WHITE CHRISTMAS By Bing Crosby brings back all kinds of fond memories with my family as a child.

    I will read comments next.

    Again, I have found our NEST to be a kind, loving, funny, thoughtful and supportive gathering for terrific friends. Thank you to CAROL and everyone.

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  75. Just Lin...
    Welcome back... sure did miss you!!!!!

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  76. Happy Friday Owls.

    Bon, very touching blog. I love Christmas music and all of the songs, even Grandma got run over. I apparently have a warped sense of humor.

    My favorite traditional song is Do You Know What I Know.

    My fav modern song is Clay Aiken's Mary Did You Know.

    The song that brings back memories is Jingle Bell Rock. We used to have a high school youth group that met at Church on Wednesday nights. We played music and danced and the year that song came out, I sewed bells in my hem and they jingled when I danced. It was a big hit and we had so much fun. A great memory.

    Thanks Bon.

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  77. Carol, I'm glad you changed your mind about taking a break. You ARE one class act and you so deserve to be treated as such. Love you.

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  78. J/L, Good to see you made it back home safely. I hope you had fun visiting your Mom.

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  79. Waving a wing at all the other Owls. I hope you all have a great day.

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  80. Oh my gosh, can someone please stop this merry-go-round I'm on???

    I swear it's been the week of constant running. Just wanted to pop in before I run off to my daughter's basketball game.

    Bon'O, loved the video, loved the questions--I'll try to get back on tonight to answer them.

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  81. Just_Lin!...
    Welcome home I have missed ya..

    Hope you had a great thanksgiving with your family...

    ♥♥

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  82. Hi Sandie:
    Thanks again for the book list..

    Sacbarb:
    The Christmas promise is so wonderful kudos to you for doing it, and thanks for taking the time to share it with us.. ♥♥♥

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  83. Sandie:
    Sorry can't stop ya, as I am on it with ya..

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  84. outatuune..

    Thank you, you and your YH are such a pleasure.. :O)

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  85. Shirley:
    I hope you are having a fun filled day with your friends..

    I am thinking about ya..

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  86. Mo:
    Just because I had a little lapse, it does not mean the stalking is over.. :O)

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  87. 100! Fun! Well maybe not that fun when one is alone.. But fun all the same.. :O)

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  88. Damn.. a minute too late!!!!!!!!!!

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  89. I love most Christmas songs and carols. If I had to pick one it would be "Old Toy Trains" written by Roger Miller and sung by different artists. It brings back beautiful memories of Christmas 1973, my favourite of all time.

    Of course I love the Elvis' Christmas songs, especially "Why Can't Every Day Be Like Christmas"?

    Back to work. Have a great evening.

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  90. Carol, I thought saw you go by me!! LOL What the heck kind of horse were you riding??

    Okay, Bon!

    Fav trad: Silver Bells (don't really care who sings it!)

    Hip: Mary, Did You Know? by Clay Aiken (so happy to see so many other owls love this song!)

    Can't stand: Grandma got run over by a reindeer.

    Memories: I guess that would have to be Away in A Manger as I used to sing it all the time as a child. It's another one of my favorites.

    I first typed "Away in a Manager!" Good thing I caught that one! Don't think it would be a very nice Christmas song ....

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  91. 1) My absolute favorite traditional holiday song is__Silent Night__ as done by __Most Anybody__.

    2) My favorite 'hip' holiday song is __Jingle Bells__ performed by __Barbra Steisand~_ and Mary Did You Know sung by a little 3rd grader two years ago at the school Christmas program.

    3) The holiday song I absolutely CANNOT stand is __Freaking Burl IVES!!!!!__!! (hubby loves him!)

    4)The holiday song that most brings back happy memories is __Happy Birthday, Jesus__ because : Fr. Kaiser had us sing it at the end of Mass every Christmas Eve~

    Thanks for the blog Bon~ (no snow yet~)

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  92. Whabbear~from area 51, it's been a while since Mr Mary "rocked" anything but a slot machine here in Vegas lol!!

    We have already been in the Chicago Airport 2 hrs..2 more hrs to go! Mr Mary is on the "edge". He is having a nicotine fit.

    BRB, I have to read today's posts.

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  93. LOL, Sandie~~Just back from a run to the Post Office and saw your post...I say "It all depends on the manager!" ~~HO-HO-HO~~

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  94. SacBarb~~Life is SO much more fun if you're a little "warped"! Jingle those bells, girl!!

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  95. BON*BON - Beautiful video. It gives me hope that we can live in peace.

    SURVEY:
    Traditional: Oh, Holy Night as sung by Mariah Carey

    Hip: Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24 by Trans Siberian Orchestra (if you want to see the video for this, I have it posted on my profile on ms)

    Cannot Stand: Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer.....good grief!!!

    Happiest Memory: Do You Hear What I Hear? as sung by Whitney Houston (this was when she was still in GREAT voice and health). I remember always singing this song for many of our Christmas programs at church growing up!! I directed the Christmas program about 15 years ago, and yes, I picked this song out for the kids to sing....cuz I love it!!!

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  96. CAROL - Thank you for your heartfelt post this morning!! I have always said that you are one classy broad....and I was right!!! I will be here with you til the end. Many smiles for YOU!!! :o) :o) :o) :o) :o)

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  97. Lani~~'Ave Maria' is SO special...takes me back to Perry Como Christmas Specials. How smooth was he? BabyHooters, I hear you already saying "Who the Heck is Perry Como?" :-)

    Tina~~What?? No 'Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas' for you? :~)

    I'm surprised no-one's mentioned 'The Twelve Days' or 'Jingle Cats' yet as a least fave!

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  98. TINA - Growing up we always sang Happy Birthday Jesus and made a birthday cake for Christmas Day. We have continued this tradition with our kids!!

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  99. BON*BON - lol @ babyhooters!!! Even I know who Perry Como is. My mother had some of his albums.

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  100. TINKA - That is my fav Elvis Christmas song.....just gives me chills!!

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  101. Hey Jodi! Since you have the weekend off, can we all please come play in the snow? Maybe, go carolling....have some hot spiked, uh, I mean spiCed cider?

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  102. SHIRLEY - All your snowmen this week have made me smile....THANK YOU!!!

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  103. BON*BON - Carroling with hot chocolate in the snow sounds perfect....but after we get back, time for "Tom N Jerry's"!!!

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  104. Bon, I almost chose "12 Days of Christmas" as my least favorite but it just felt kind of un-American. I do have to say that it can get on my nerves pretty quickly.

    In my old MD neighborhood a few families would get together and walk the neighborhood singing Christmas carols (adults and kids). First we'd meet at one of our houses and practice the songs. We always broke into groups to act out "12 Days of Christmas," each taking a verse. It was a hoot! Then we'd go to one of our houses and have cookies and hot chocolate. The adults would play games and the kids would hang out. I miss that!

    I tried to do it here but it was such a bust. Everyone acted too shy to act out the song and no one wanted to go caroling. Bummer. I guess I should try again--maybe I invited the wrong people!

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  105. ok, I'm back
    My fave Christmas song is Ave Maria, sung by Arron Nevils.
    I love "I'll be home for Christmas'. I forget who sings it.
    My least fav. is pretty much what everyone else hates.."Grandma got Run....

    Carol..MUAH!!

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  106. Sandi, I'll go Caroling with you! That is if I ever get out of this airport lol!

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  107. Question.. I just tried to get into ms and was given a humongous verification number. I have never had to do this. Any one else have to do this lately?

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  108. MARY/MI - Crap!!! I could've drove down and hung out at the airport with you today. I sure would've beat the day that I had @ work!!!

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  109. Ha!!! s/b be IT not I would've beat the day.....but that is kind of what I felt like doing!! :P

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  110. CAROL - I see your la and your smile!!!

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  111. Jodi, I'm not sure you would have liked to be around my Mr Mary lol!
    The area we are in is freezing! My arthritis kicked in as soon as we landed.

    Jodi,Sorry you had a bad day at work.
    sending {{hugs}}.

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  112. Mary:
    You are cracking me up with your "layover" report.. thanks for letting us "layover" with ya!

    :O)

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  113. I'm going to let Mr Mary use the laptop to distract him...

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  114. CAROL - Well, my day is complete if I was able to do that for you!!

    MARY/MI - You have no idea what I'm able to put up with!!! And thanks for the ((((HUGS)))...back atcha!

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  115. JodiHo....

    Sorry you had a crapola day at work.. tomorrow will be better..

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  116. CAROL - Yes, I will!!! Cuz I have the weekend off.....yippeeflippindoo!!!

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  117. I guess he opted to lay down.
    I envy people here who can set their laptop on their laps. I don't have one lol! I am going to try ms again.

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  118. SACBARB - THANK YOU!!! I got your beautiful card today. I love it!!

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  119. MARY/MI - Is that a problem because of your height?

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  120. Another special part of our Christmas with my hubby's family is singing Silent Night with the lights dimmed, candles lit, holding hands around the dinner table. We sing it as our table prayer.

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  121. Jodi, yup.plus it's hard to see over my "endowments" ;-)
    Thanks for not mentioning the "protruding belly" lol!!

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  122. MARY/MI - Have a safe flight home!!!

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  123. left, left, left, right, left!!!

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  124. Mary/MI~~See ya when you get home!

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  125. Good Evening Everyone! Well, I survived the make-up party the other night. The people there were my daughter's friends and so darn young. They kept talking about preventing wrinkles...I felt like I was the "before" picture!

    I really had a good day today. I went for a late Birthday lunch with my friend and she gave me a present. When I opened it I found a ticket to Celine Dion in Feb here in Denver. I was thrilled. She was supposed to come in November but got sick and changed it to Feb. I tried to get my friends to go with me when it was announced a year ago and noone would go. She remembered and got not only a ticket for me but one for her. She thinks she won't even know the songs! It is a huge thing that she is "my date" for this adventure. I just was very touched by her gesture. I then went to Toys R Us and found some pretty good sales and then to Target. I wasn't planning on shopping but it worked out that way and I did pretty good with my "no oxygen" breathing too!

    We are getting ready to go to our favorite neighborhood Mexican place for some dinner now.

    BTW, Yes MEK it did snow for two days but it is all melted today. It was only 5 degrees yesterday but up to 50 today.

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  126. My favorite song is Silver Bells. My favorite "hip" song (not really hip but different) is Hard Candy Christmas by Dolly Parton from the Best Little Whorehouse Movie. I don't like the song Santa Baby..I think because they play it too much. I love Christmas music and have been listening to it since it started right after Halloween. I sing like I am Karen Carpenter or Barbara Streisand or sometimes I even hear my best Johnny Mathis voice come out!

    I wanted to comment on the posts from BIRDEE AND CAROL today....this is a wonderful place to have so many friends...thank you.

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  127. GOLDIE - How could I forget you? I saw your post this morning....and yes I have. Thank you for your friendship and support!!! You're the best!!!

    ZONA - THANK YOU for sending the cutest darn CHRISTMAS ANGEL 2 me this morning. You totally made me smile...and made my day!! I've said it before, but I'll say it again....Luv U....mean it!!! SWAK!!!

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  128. DIANNE - THANK YOU for the call....oh, and I have my shirt all ready for Sunday!! So glad you had a fun day...and what a great gift you got today!!!

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  129. BON*BON - Thanks again for a fun blog!!

    I'm off to watch a movie with the boys!!

    I hope everyone has a great weekend. :D :D :D

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  130. Flying through! Glad to see everyone checking in.

    I think I must have a flu bug running through my system. I have been more miserable today. I tell you this is just getting old or at least I am!

    Will check back with everyone in the morning.

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  131. Congrats on first Scirish!!

    Okay, I am back. I had quite a hectic week but it is finally the weekend!! Yay!! Thanks to Carol and iteach for emailing me to make sure I was okay. I really appreciated that.

    Bon - fantastic blog! I love this type of thing and here are my answers:

    1) My absolute favorite traditional holiday song is the Little Drummer boy (okay I know some of you hate it, but I love it!!) as done by Gosh, I have no clue, just different versions throughout my life. I guess I related to it because I always felt poor (in more ways than just monetarily) and I could identify with the litte drummer boy, being alone and coming to admire the baby Jesus. He offered up the only gift he had, which I think is a beautiful message.

    2) My favorite 'hip' holiday song is Carol of the Bells performed by I have no clue!.

    3) The holiday song I absolutely CANNOT stand is, well, I don't really have one I can't stand maybe "Grandma got Run Over by a Reindeer"..that song upset me when I was a child..lol!!

    4)The holiday song that most brings back happy memories is anything by Harry Conick Junior because he just has the most perfect voice and it is the old style singing like Frank Sinatra..I just love that.

    Okay, going to read comments! But before I go..the last three days I have walked over 12,000 steps a day and I have lost 48 lbs now! :)

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  132. Scirish: Wow, what a beautiful story..it gave me "spingles" as Rosie says. Too cool, does it make you wonder if that was the reason you were meant to sing the song, at that time. That is a great story.

    Carol: You have my support always. Little did I know, but it looks like I picked a good time to be MIA for a bit. I am really sorry that people are hurting though. :(

    Birdee: Well said.

    Dianne: HoW COOL!! Celine Dion..I bet that is going to be so much fun. It is a nice bit of time away too, I always enjoy the anticipation of events like that as much as the events themselves!@@!! Ohh..very cool! What a nice friend you have!

    Sandie: Your running on the merry go round reminded me of my week this week. I am glad I am off the ride for a bit..woo hoo. This time of year is wayyyyy too hectic. Next week is a busy week too, but not until Wednesday.

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  133. Jeeeezz..I left it at 159...so I must do it..I must.. I must...160

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  134. ........161.....Come they told him..

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  135. .. pa rum pa pa pum....(sorry for those I am annoying..at least you don't have to HEAR me singing it..lol)

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  136. pa PUM...1 sixty nine..that was DUMB...hehe :)

    169 169 169

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  137. Jodi & iteach: Your blogs were great. I am sorry I wasn't around to comment on them more. I tried reading them from my phone but it is really hard to do. I did manage to get on and tell you, iteach, I love Christmas cards too. Wherever you are, I hope you are doing well.

    Goldie, you cracked me up with all your problems the day of the smiles blog. I am glad the next day was smooth. My goodness..I hate days like that!!

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  138. Jodi: Your silent night prayer song sounds really nice.

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  139. Wow, it just figures..I am finally able to get online and Nobody else is here to talk to!! Story of my life!

    Does anyone else like Pampered Chef? I went to a Pampered Chef party this week. It was so fun, and I bought a lot of gifts for my mom, sister and my daughter. I love their stuff. Of course, I bought a bar pan stone for myself. I had one but it broke!! I am so hard on those stones.

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  140. 17 posts in a row. I must be lonely!! Anyone want to come over and set up my Christmas tree? I really don't want to do it. Thank goodness my kids are older. I guess I have to do it this weekend though, huh.

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  141. 19 posts in a row..Where is there snow?

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  142. 20 posts in a row..that is as far as I'll go!

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  143. Safe trip, Mary!

    Hello, Zona!

    Carol, I'm so glad you reconsidered! Amazing what a night's sleep can do!

    Diane: How fun is that! Congrats!

    Birdee: Well said! Kudos!

    Hello, Bebbi!

    All right, finally, to the "little bit rock and roll" half of Bon'O's blog:

    Favorite traditionals: While Shepherds Watched, Once in Royal David's City, and "Still, Still, Still".

    Favorite modern: Santa's Baby (Jackie Beat).

    Least favorite modern: Well, nothing is really jumping out... they're all mildly irritating!

    Favorite song not-yet-written:

    A gay in a manger!

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  144. Whabby:
    Jackies Beat new video is on Perez, you should check it out..

    Its "headless"

    :O)

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  145. Bebbi:
    Love your rendition of the the drummer boy...

    How are you on steps today...

    I did 1385.. way up from 50..

    :O)

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  146. Dianne_had_a_good_day_in_denver:

    Thanks so very much for you msg, it means alot.. We really are a good bunch, no matter what others think, I think we are all A...OK...

    :O)

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  147. Oh, and Dianne.. Glad you had a good day!

    :O)

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  148. Whabby: LOL at "a gay in the manger"..that was funny!!

    Hey Carol, yeah I was having a good ole time here by my lonesome! Glad you are doing well today. :)

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  149. Shirley:

    Did you put help you friend with the Christmas Tree? How was your day?

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  150. Today's steps: 12,961.

    Way to go on getting yours up! Good job! I had a few "50" days when I started too.

    Kind of fun to see how many, huh!

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  151. Oh, here I go...

    "Did you put help your friend"

    WTF...

    "Did you help your friend put up the Christmas Tree"

    Thats better...

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  152. Bebbi:
    I wear it everyday... And I am such a goof I look at it quite often...

    And when I want the numbers up, I cheat and shake my foot... Oops...

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  153. Whabby:
    How do we really know there was no gay in the manger? Actually we will never no.. But I bet there were some..

    :O)

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  154. Carol...hey, I shake my foot too! It's exercise..so what the heck..lol.
    You wouldn't have been movin that foot otherwise, right?

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  155. I always wear it on my right foot, so I worry that my muscles will build up more from the shaking my right foot all the time..lol. I can't bring myself to put it on my left foot though. So if I start to lisp to the right...you'll know why.

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  156. oops..I meant LIST!! not lisp!! omg..too funny.

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  157. Bebbi:
    I wear it on my right foot as well, I never thought of my right foot getting stronger than my left tho, so I will have to mix it up...

    LOL..

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  158. Bon:
    I thank you again for todays blog, it really was special..

    I did give you my favs and dislikes yet, but I will.. :O)

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  159. I am heading to bed...

    Sleep is calling...

    Smiles...
    :O)

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  160. ok.. really going now...

    Zona:
    What Christmas music is MrZona playing? ♥♥♥

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  161. Good Night Carol...SWEET DREAMS!!!!!!!!!!

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