Christmas Music Video Countdown: 15 to go

"The Muppet Christmas Carol" is one of my favorite Christmas movies. Gonzo's true narration and the music make it a wonderful version of the classic tale. And of course Michael Caine is magnificent as Scrooge. God Bless us, everyone.

Christmas Music Video Countdown: 16 to go

A lovely version of a lovely song in a lovely song. Stunning. More information about the track and the couple behind the song at Hue and Hum.

Christmas Music Video Countdown: 17 to go

This gem from an old Andy Williams Christmas special is brought to you by the color combo Mustard Yellow and Grandma's Couch Orange, which are both colors I kind of love so we're cool. I especially like the guy in the back who keeps peeking out  from behind Mr. Williams during "Sleigh Bells."

Bonus track: "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year."

Christmas Music Video Countdown: 18 to go

I was kind of tired of this song--until I watched the video. I love how Paul McCartney just appears. And the lazer star/keyboards.

Christmas Music Video Countdown: 19 days to go

David Bowie. Bing Crosby. Here the twain meet. The small talk. The near matching blue blazer/sweater. The harmonies. This is probably the only version of this song I still like.

Of course there's also this:

20 Days Until Christmas: A Music Video Countdown.

We are doing all kinds of countdowns at our house this year. The ornament advent. Chocolate advents. The candy cane advent. a scripture-a-day advent the kids brought home from Church. I decided to add another countdown to the mix. Every day until Christmas, I will share a fun/strange/delightful Christmas musical video.

Today's installment: this delightful rendition of a classic. I saw this on Jimmy Fallon last night (so really, on December 5) and so it just has to start the countdown.

Enjoy!

Basic Six.

Sunrise at La Push, November 2011.

In the last year or so many of the habits that have helped my life run smoothly have either evaporated or been wiped out by various activities and events. In an attempt to get back on track with some of these simple things that make my life easier/better, I decided to identify the basic tasks/areas I need to work on every day. The idea is that if I accomplish at least these basic things, the other things will fall into place. It's more about focus and centering than necessarily the tasks themselves.

+ Daily Scripture study/spiritual time.

+ Do something to make our home warm and welcoming.

+ Do something for B/our relationship.

+ Plan ahead.

+ Write in journals, focusing on details of kids at this stage and the good things that happen to us.

+ Do something to care for myself.

These are the activities that center me, give me focus, and help me keep a good perspective of my life.

What are your Basic Six, or five, or whatever? What things do you like to do each day? What helps you feel centered and focused and grateful?