what's missing?

for me, this christmas is marked by one particular absence, one particular stocking not hung on the mantel.

new holiday traditions

it just wouldn't be christmas without the aunt barbara christmas special.

old holiday traditions

happy holidays to all...

christmas with aunt barbara

with a list of special guests like this, aunt barbara's holiday special would be required viewing at my house. (more aunt barbara here and here.)

xmas lights

today we're listening to frank, tina, nancy and frank jr. sing "i wouldn't trade christmas" (one of my all-time favorites.) plus "i'd like to hitch a ride with santa clause" by the andrews sisters, "christmastime" by aimee mann, and "nigh bethlehem" by singers unlimited.

and stringing lights on the tree.

just in time.