So have you gotten into the Christmas spirit in spite of the "pandemicstances"? I personally have conflicted feelings about whatever that is we call the Christmas spirit, but I'll leave that for another time. :-)
I also have mixed feelings about Christmas music. You see, I'm a little ADD and easily tire of the same old songs year after year (don't shoot me!). One song that is virtually impossible to miss hearing this time of year is the "12 Days of Christmas".
So just what are the 12 days of Christmas, and who decided what 12 days they are? Are they the 12 days leading up to Christmas, or the days following Christmas? If you guessed "B", you would be correct. And if you did, you are likely from a background where the Christian liturgical calendar is observed in detail. The 12 days begin on Christmas Day and lead up to Epiphany, the day when the coming of the magi (wise men) is observed.
But the song that is on the list of the top 10 most annoying Christmas carols in at least some households besides mine -- when and where did it come from? You can find out right here.
But let's pretend for a minute that the 12 days begin TODAY -- 12 days before Christmas! A few years ago, I took my readers on a virtual tour around the world, where during the days leading up to Christmas we visited a different culture each day and learned about its distinctive Christmas traditions. Not only did I find it super interesting, but I also find it is a great way to take us out of our immediate surroundings and join with people all over the world who celebrate the birth of Christ (and let's face it, a whole host of accompanying myths and legends mixed in).
In any case, I'd love to hear your thoughts on the most meaningful Christmas traditions that are part of your life. Just reply to this email -- or better yet, leave a comment on this blog post.
Have a great 12 days, however and wherever they find you!