anna and ian: life on the green line: December 2011

12.31.2011

four years ago...

Happy anniversary to the love of my life.

photography by Gina Dreher. Kansas brides, hire Gina. You won't regret it.

12.25.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 25

I was going to write a manifesto on the pursuit of goodwill to go with this song, but then life happened.

We're in Dodge City visiting my aunt and grandmother for Christmas and have had a fantastic time so far. Lots of gifts. Lots of good family time. Then Grandma fell, hurt her arm, and needed to go to the hospital to get it checked out. Please say a prayer for her today.

She was bummed that this happened on Christmas, at a time when the whole family was together. I think all of the family was glad it happened when it did, so that we could all lend a hand and make sure she had enough support. And I guess, on this Christmas, I'm just so thankful for family and the opportunity to be together. That should never be taken for granted.

Merry Christmas to all! Thanks for being a part of this advent and Christmas season. We hope you've enjoyed the music and stories to go along with, and made some of your own — we’d love to hear about them.

—Ian

I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play
And wild and sweet the words repeat
of peace on Earth, good will to men

And thought how as the day had come
The belfries of all Christendom
had rolled along the unbroken song
of peace on Earth, good will to men

I can hear them
I can hear them
I can hear them
I can hear them

And in despair I bowed my head
"There is no peace on Earth" I said
For hate is strong and mocks the song
of peace on Earth, good will to men

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep
God is not dead nor does He sleep
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
with peace on Earth, good will to men

I can hear You
I can hear You...

12.24.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 24

I didn't know "Go Tell It on the Mountain" until it showed up in one of my piano lessons. I enjoyed playing the song, but once I moved on to the next piano level, it fell off my radar. Until I heard the David Crowder Band version. It's fresh and inventive without losing the heart. And I’m so excited to listen to this tomorrow. Go tell it on the mountain: it’s Christmas day, and Jesus Christ is born.

—Anna

(Go tell it on the mountain)

While shepherds were out watching
Their silent flocks by night,
Behold, throughout the heavens
There shone a holy light.

Go tell it on the mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountain,
That Jesus Christ is born.

It's Christmas day.
(Go tell it on the mountain.)
It's Christmas day.

Shepherds feared and trembled
When, lo, above the earth
Rang out the angels' chorus
That hailed the Savior's birth.

Go tell it on the mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountain,
That Jesus Christ is born.

It's Christmas day.
(Go tell it on the mountain.)
Oh, It's Christmas day.

Down in a lowly manger,
The humbled Christ was born,
And God sent us Salvation
That blessed Christmas morn.

Go tell it on the mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountain,
That Jesus Christ is born.

It's Christmas day.
(Go tell it on the mountain.)
It's Christmas day.
Oh, It's Christmas day.
(Go tell it on the mountain.)
Oh, It's Christmas day, yeah.
Oh, It's Christmas day.
(Go tell it on the mountain.)

(Go tell it on the mountain.)
(It's Christmas day)
(Go tell it on the mountain.)

12.23.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 23

One or twice a month, I lead music at [REUNION], our church in Back Bay. Our band is full of stellar musicians from Berklee School of Music (a.k.a. that one school that’s produced 205 Grammy’s), as we’re basically located at their back door. It’s a tremendously humbling and exciting place to be plugged in to (for much much more than just these reasons), and our repertoire of tunes is large and contemporary.

This song is a contemporary one that I first heard at [REUNION]. As an updated version of “Joy to the World,” it includes a sweet chorus that functions as more of a rock anthem. Singing this song with an incredible band and a worshipful community makes a venue ring with so much Christmas spirit that it’s impossible to contain. Elevated voices and smiling faces serve as expressions of grace, peace and true joy. All of these elements are why this song means so much to me. Every time I hear it, I’m reminded that this Christmas thing means the most when it’s shared with a community. Plain and simple.

—Ian

All of heaven and all creation sing

All of heaven and all creation sing the wonders of His love

Joy to the world! the Lord is come; let earth receive Her King.

Let ev'ry heart prepare Him room,

and heaven and nature sing,

and heaven, and heaven and nature sing

All of heaven and all creation sing the wonders of His love

He rules the world with truth and grace,

and makes the nations prove

the glories of His righteousness,

and wonders of His love,

and wonders, wonders of His love

All of heaven and all creation sing the wonders of His love

The wonders of His Love

Joy to the world! the Lord is come; let earth receive Her King.

Let ev'ry heart prepare Him room,

and heaven and nature sing,

and heaven, and heaven and nature sing

All of heaven and all creation sing the wonders of His love

12.22.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 22

I'm a sucker for Christmas carols in minor keys. I’m not sure why I’m drawn to the darker tone, because I’m always happy at Christmas. Maybe it's the weight of the tradition in the melody that hits me with Christmas emotion, but I feel so full when I hear this song (the strings/guitar combination and mashup with "Carol of the Bells" don’t hurt either). And I love that the lyrics have weight, telling the story of the shepherds and the truth of Christ's birth. Tidings of comfort and joy we love to share every season.

—Anna

God rest ye merry, gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember, Christ, our Savior
was born on Christmas day
to save us all from Satan's power
when we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

From God our Heavenly Father
a blessed Angel came,
and unto certain Shepherds
brought tidings of the same:
How that in Bethlehem was born
the Son of God by Name.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and

Joy to the world
For Christ the Lord has finally come
Let every heart receive the new born King
O come all of heaven and nature sing

Tidings of comfort and joy
Tidings of comfort and joy

O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

12.21.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 21

This song, from the 1964 classic “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” takes me back to my childhood. We never really watched the Christmas classics as a family - usually just caught them on TBS, but this one I distinctly remember watching with the whole fam. It’s one of those old-timey, quintessential movies and tunes that adds a little flair to the season. Plus, with the mistletoe and by-golly’s in there, it’s just plain fun. In a way, I kind of feel like I wouldn’t be a true American if I didn’t listen to this song...

—Ian

Have a holly, jolly Christmas;

It's the best time of the year

I don't know if there'll be snow,

but have a cup of cheer.

Have a holly, jolly Christmas;

And when you walk down the street

Say Hello to friends you know

and ev'ryone you meet.

Oh, ho, the mistletoe

hung where you can see;

Somebody waits for you;

Kiss her once for me.

Have a holly jolly Christmas,

and in case you didn't hear,

Oh by golly, have a holly, jolly Christmas

this year.

12.20.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 20

A Charlie Brown Christmas has never been a huge tradition in our family, but even without cable we still end up seeing it about once a season. And I don't mind. I love that something so traditional, something that quotes the Bible not ironically, is still an American staple. It's the 1965 version of Advent Conspiracy: peeling away rampant consumerism to find the real meaning of Christmas. Thanks, Linus.

—Anna

Christmas time is here
Happiness and cheer
Fun for all that children call
Their favorite time of the year

Snowflakes in the air
Carols everywhere
Olden times and ancient rhymes
Of love and dreams to share

Sleigh bells in the air
Beauty everywhere
Yuletide by the fireside
And joyful memories there

Christmas time is here
We'll be drawing near
Oh, that we could always see
Such spirit through the year
Oh, that we could always see
Such spirit through the year...

12.19.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 19

When Anna and I conceived this little project, we made a ("strict") rule that we would choose only one song from any given album. We're obviously breaking that rule pretty hard.

And that's okay, because what we're finding is that our most favorite songs are from a particular genre and/or artist. Plus, there are more worthwhile Christmas songs to listen to than we can keep track of. Nothing wrong with that, right? Now, for the song...

The Mercyme version of "Little Drummer Boy" makes me tear up. There, I admitted it. Here's why — the concept is simple — even our most taken-for-granted gifts are meaningful. Yours. Mine. Our most elementary abilities, they're more than enough. This is one of God's most poignant points to me this Christmas. Whether it's landscape architecture, music, design, or drumming (the only drumming I do is air), I know that there's nothing that can't be turned into good. "Then, He smiled at me..."

—Ian

Come they told me, pa rum pum pum pum
A new born King to see, pa rum pum pum pum
Our finest gifts we bring, pa rum pum pum pum
To lay before the King, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

So to honor Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
When we come.

Little Baby, pa rum pum pum pum
I am a poor boy too, pa rum pum pum pum
I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum
That's fit to give the King, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum pum,
On my drum?

Shall I play for you?

Shall I play for you?
Mary looked at me and nodded
The ox and lamb kept time
I played my drum for Him
I played my best for Christ
I played my best for Christ

Then He smiled at me.

12.18.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 18

[Click here to listen]

I frequent The Drop. And when I heard the three song EP from Bensonwells, I immediately put the entire album on repeat. The one stand-out song is absolutely this chilling, gorgeous and modern arrangement of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel." 'Nuff said.

—Ian

O come, O come, Emmanuel,
And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer
Our people by Thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And sin's dark shadows put to flight.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Rejoice! Rejoice!

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

12.17.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 17

The first time I heard this song, what stuck out to me was the strangeness of a Christmas song about ships. Nowhere in the nativities I’d seen were there any sailing vessels (although I’m sure various nativity sets with new additions every year will get there, if they haven’t already). I imagined a little maritime parade, with Mary, Joseph, and Jesus doing the pageant wave to everyone in Bethlehem as they passed. I still don’t really understand it, but the repetition with q&a verses to a catchy tune keep this song playing in my head all season long.

—Anna

I saw three ships come sailing in,
On Christmas day, on Christmas day,
I saw three ships come sailing in,
On Christmas day in the morning.

And what was in those ships all three?
On Christmas day, on Christmas day,
And what was in those ships all three?
On Christmas day in the morning.

The Virgin Mary and Christ were there,
On Christmas day, on Christmas day,
The Virgin Mary and Christ were there,
On Christmas day in the morning.

12.16.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 16

As I mentioned before, I love Zooey Deschanel's voice, especially when it's singing Christmas songs. So I was thrilled when I saw on Pinterest that her band, She & Him, had put together a Christmas album. They cover some classics, but the one that piqued my interest was "The Christmas Waltz." I'm a big fan of music from the Frank Sinatra/Nat King Cole/Ella Fitzgerald era, particularly of the Christmas variety. How had I not heard this song before? It's been sung by some greats (Frank Sinatra), but I think Relevant magazine puts it best: "The duo's take on 'The Christmas Waltz' is easily the quintessential version of the song." So glad I didn't have to mess around with any impostors.

—Anna

Frosted window panes
Candles gleaming inside
Painted candy canes on the tree
Santa's on his way,
He's filled his sleigh
With things, things for you and for me

It's that time of year
When the world falls in love
Every song you hear
Seems to say
Merry Christmas
May your New Year dreams come true

And this song of mine
In three quarter time
Wishes you and yours
The same thing too

12.15.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 15

Inspired by Pinterest, Anna wanted to do an advent calendar. And inspired by Advent Conspiracy, she wanted to make it about presence, not presents. Ian had a brilliant idea to use music. We each picked out some of our favorite Christmas songs and will be counting down with festive tunes.

day 15. "Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne"

I pulled out my guitar last night to rehearse some songs for this upcoming weekend at [REUNION]. But before I even got to song one on the set list, I heard Anna listening to Phil Wickham’s Christmas stuff. Which immediately prompted me to ask my lovely wife what Christmas songs she wanted me to sing to her (since that’s one of her so called favorite things — see Anna, I really do listen...). After singing and playing a verse of "Silent Night" and a couple of "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear," I pulled out the hymnal I "borrowed" from our church 6 or 7 years ago, and stumbled upon #127, "Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne."

This song is probably generally sung in select Protestant churches of the post-Great Awakening — both Anna’s church and mine growing up sang it. But even if it’s a once-a-year-at-church kind of song — most likely accompanied by a 60-70-year-young grandma who can absolutely kill it on the piano — so much history, theology and inner reflection is packed inside that you can't help but remember it once you've sung it. Bottom line for me, it's one I never anticipate singing during the Christmas season, but it's one that is very meaningful the few times that I do. If this advent calendar had a dark horse song, this would probably be it.

—Ian

Thou didst leave Thy throne and Thy kingly crown,

When Thou camest to earth for me;

But in Bethlehem’s home was there found no room

For Thy holy nativity.

REFRAIN

O come to my heart, Lord Jesus,

There is room in my heart for Thee.

Heaven's arches rang when the angels sang,

Proclaiming Thy royal degree;

But of lowly birth didst Thou come to earth,

And in great humility.

REFRAIN

The foxes found rest, and the birds their nest

In the shade of the forest tree;

But Thy couch was the sod, O Thou Son of God,

In the deserts of Galilee.

REFRAIN

Thou camest, O Lord, with the living Word,

That should set Thy people free;

But with mocking scorn and with crown of thorn,

They bore Thee to Calvary.

REFRAIN

When the heav'ns shall ring, and her choirs shall sing,

At Thy coming to victory,

Let Thy voice call me home, saying "Yet there is room,

There is room at My side for thee."

REFRAIN

My heart shall rejoice, Lord Jesus,

When Thou comest and callest for me.

12.14.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 14

I don't think there is a Christmas song that makes me feel like I'm five again quite like "Silent Night." It was the first Christmas song that I can remember learning. When I hear it, I immediately think of our tiny church back home. Our special decorating service, where we put up all the holiday decorations while learning about the special meaning that each wreath and candle held. A special service where each family prepared something special, a song, a poem, to share with the community. The nativity where I was only big enough to wear a cape and sit behind a paper mache sheep head. I distinctly remember reaching up to pet the donkey head next to me. The mane was irresistible to a little girl who really wanted a pony.

I hope that this song and season bring back happy childhood memories for you too!

—Anna

Silent night! holy night!
All is calm all is bright
round yon virgin mother and child
Holy infant so tender and mild
sleep in heavenly peace!
sleep in heavenly peace!

Silent night! holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight
glories stream from heaven afar
heavenly hosts sing Hallelujah
Christ the Saviour is born!
Christ the Saviour is born!

Silent night! holy night!
Son of God love's pure light
radiant beams from thy holy face
with the dawn of redeeming grace,

Jesus, Lord at thy birth.
Jesus, Lord at thy birth.

12.13.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 13

I used to play the piano (took piano lessons for, like, 8 years, y’all — then proceeded to not play for, like 13 years). Anyhoo, Christmas was one of my favorite times to sneak into the oh-so-cold piano room in our (funeral) home and attempt to play by ear some song that I had heard earlier in the day. But, one year, I remember acquiring a piano book of Christmas songs (I can’t recall whether it was a gift of something that I purchased myself), and from then on, that was my go to book for all things jolly and bright.

There was one song in that book that I loved to play more than any other, "Still, Still, Still." As funny or juxtaposing as it may seem, this Austrian lullaby was easily one of the most beautiful songs I’d ever heard. It remains so today, putting into poetry Mary’s words as she coaxes her newborn baby to sleep. Please enjoy the little-known carol that rings ever so sweetly.

—Ian

Still, Still, Still
One can hear the falling snow
For all is hushed
The world is sleeping
Holy Star her Vigil keeping
Still, Still, Still
One can hear the falling snow

Sleep, Sleep, Sleep
'Tis the eve of our Savior's birth
The night is peaceful all around you
Close your eyes
Let sleep surround you
Sleep, Sleep, Sleep
'Tis the eve of our Savior's birth

Dream, Dream, Dream
Of the joyous day to come
While guardian angels without number
Watch you as you sweetly slumber
Dream, Dream, Dream
Of the joyous day to come

12.12.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 12

When I heard the DCB version of "O Holy Night" for the first time, a memory of playing special music at church flashed in my head. I was in high school, and practicing piano was lower on my priority list. I managed to pull off the song during the service, but when one of the sweet older ladies asked me to play it again after the Christmas potluck so we could do an impromptu sing-along, I failed miserably, due in part to my lack of experience as accompanist and lack of practice the week before. The strangest things can trigger long lost memories. Even stranger is that the song I played for the special was actually "The First Noel."

Reminiscing aside, this is a beautiful song. I especially love the DCB version because I can sing along without skipping out on the high notes. I’m most comfortable in the tenor range, and Ian can sing high notes better than me. Because if you can't share weird facts about yourself at Christmas, when can you? I hope you enjoy singing along with this song as much as I do!

—Anna

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Savior's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born.
O night divine, O night, O night divine!

Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains He shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!

Fall on your knees! O hear the angel voices!

O night divine, O night when Christ was born!

O night divine, O night, O night divine!

Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia

12.11.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 11

I could very well be in the vast minority on this one, but sometimes, my soul needs to be nourished by chamber music. It happens maybe once a month, where I find myself searching and searching on my iPod for something to listen to, only to flip to some series of choral arrangements that I keep for that occasion alone.

I've always had a soft spot for this type of music, and the Robert Shaw arrangement is one of the best (sorry we couldn't find it on YouTube, but this is a good classical choral arrangement). I'll keep it simple and only say enjoy one of the most simple and beautiful Christmas hymns.

—Ian

The First Noel, the angels did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep
On a cold winter's night that was so deep.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

They looked up and saw a star
Shining in the East beyond them far
And to the earth it gave great light
And so it continued both day and night.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

And by the light of that same star
Three wise men came from country far
To seek for a King was their intent
And to follow the star wherever it went.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

This star drew nigh to the northwest
O'er Bethlehem it took its rest
And there it did both pause and stay
Right o'er the place where Jesus lay.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

Then entered in those wise men three
Full reverently upon their knee
And offered there in His presence
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heavenly Lord
That hath made Heaven and earth of nought
And with his blood mankind has bought.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

12.10.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 10

I'm not sure when I started watching The Nutcracker on PBS. I happened upon it one night and just kept watching, even though I haven't been interested in ballet since I was in elementary school and dreamed of becoming a ballerina. Mom and Dad even signed me up for lessons, but I got switched to a jazz class because the ballet class wasn't big enough. The next year I snuggled up by myself on the sofa in the soft glow of the tree and watched it on purpose. It just doesn't feel like Christmas without a musical parade of holiday treats. This is especially appropriate today, though, because Ian surprised me with tickets for tonight. My first ever live ballet — I love my husband!

While we're off on our Christmas date, we hope you enjoy Jack's (half of Pomplamoose) reinterpretation of The Nutcracker's best known piece.

—Anna

(And if you want a 7.5 minute speed version of the whole suite, click here!)

12.09.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 09

A short anecdote:
This song will forever be etched into my brain. Why? Because when I was a young'un, and Christmas time came around, my dad would sing this song.

Except he would change the lyrics.

Long story short: he would skip all the lyrics and in place of the line, "walking in a winter wonderland," would sing, "walking 'round in women's underwear." Classy, I know. I will vouch for him and say that in all the years I lived at home, he never once, to my knowledge, followed through with that lyric line he would smirkily sing. For that, I am eternally grateful. So, in conclusion, every year, when our family gets together for the season, this song comes up at some point and we naturally hee-haw.

—Ian

Sleigh bells ring, are you listening,
In the lane, snow is glistening
A beautiful sight,
We're happy tonight.
Walking in a winter wonderland.

Gone away is the bluebird,
Here to stay is a new bird
He sings a love song,
As we go along,
Walking in a winter wonderland.

In the meadow we can build a snowman,
Then pretend that he is Parson Brown
He'll say: Are you married? We'll say: No man,
But you can do the job when you're in town.

Later on, we'll conspire,
As we dream by the fire
To face unafraid,
The plans that we've made,
Walking in a winter wonderland.

In the meadow we can build a snowman,
And pretend that he's a circus clown
We'll have lots of fun with mister snowman,
Until the other kids knock him down.

When it snows, ain't it thrilling,
Though your nose gets a chilling
We'll frolic and play,
the Eskimo way,
Walking in a winter wonderland.

12.08.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 08

I can't remember the first time I heard the rocked out version of "Carol of the Bells" as performed by the Trans Syberian Orchestra. I just remember it was the first time I heard a traditional song converted to rock, and I loved (and continue to love) it. And ever since littlest/biggest brother Caleb picked up the electric guitar (and got really really good at it), I can't help but envision him, tall and dredlocked, ripping out sweet licks Guitar-Hero style, whenever I hear songs like this. So the song has sweet licks AND and warm fuzzies for family. Can it get better? Yes.

David Crowder Band covered this in an encore at the show we went to in New York back in October, and it was possibly more guitar melting than the Trans Syberian Orchestra version. So to recap: sweet licks, warm fuzzies, David Crowder Band humor + guitar melting. Christmas win.

—Anna

*Since there aren't any lyrics in this version (only sweet licks/guitar melting), I'm transcribing David Crowder's intro. He's funny.

How's everybody doing? Y'all okay? (crowd cheers)

I bumped into a friend of mine two days ago and he said, "You know David, I'm really a bit sad inside 'cause Christmas is over. It's only one day a year, of 365."

I said, "You know, that's just crazy talk. It's actually 12 days a year." That's right. The twelve days of... you know what I'm talking about. All leading up to Epiphany, moment the magis brought Christ Child gifts.

So, we'll have a little fun tonight. Sing a little carols. No wassail. We've got good friends. We've got an arena where hockey is normally played, right? And if I'm doing my math right, Epiphany doesn't come until January 6th. So you know what that means, kids. It's still Christmas time.

*UPDATE* They made a sweet music video to this: they're nutcrackers. You don't want to miss it.

12.07.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 07

This is a song that gets me WICKED AMPED for Christmas! I was introduced to the MercyMe Christmas album by my good friend Mr. Fox, and was, I admit, a bit skeptical. "How in the world could a pop-rock/Christian/country/Christmas album be so good?" I thought. The answer: it just is.

Cover to cover, The Christmas Sessions may be my all time favorite Christmas album, up there with Bing, Ella, Elf, and Sufjan, and "Gloria" is its best song. A reprise of the classic choir hymn, "Angels We Have Heard On High," "Gloria" teems with thick guitar licks, thumping bass lines, and a heart-wrenching crescendo into the song's final choruses that sends shivers down my spine and fills my heart with so much joy. It's a song that, at its core, praises God for the significance of the day He came to be God Among Us. Can I get a gloria in excelsis deo?

— Ian

Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing o'er the plains
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains

Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous strains prolong?
What the glad song's tidings be?
Which inspire your heavenly song?

Gloria in excelsis Deo
Gloria in excelsis Deo

Come to Bethlehem and see
Christ whose birth the angels sing
Come adore on bended knee
Christ the Lord, the newborn King

See Him in a manger lay
Whom the choirs of angels praise
Mary, Joseph, lend your aid
While our hearts in love we raise

How could Heaven's heart not break
On the day, the day that You came?
Salvation's reason to celebrate
On the day, the day that You came

Gloria, gloria, gloria

12.06.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 06

Pomplamoose, my favorite band, released this song the first Christmas we really participated in Advent Conspiracy. They connected it to a World Vision giving campaign, because Christmas is "more than filling up our socks with toys." Purchase a goat (or something else from the WV Christmas catalog) and get the song. Thanks to their efforts, fans gave 138 goats, 166 ducks, and 107 chickens, plus mango and olive trees, soccer and basket balls, pigs, sheep, alpaca, donkey, rabbits, sewing machines, mosquito nets, art & music instruction, shoes, seeds, and earthquake relief. Jesus changed the world at Christmas, and so can we!

— Anna

mistletoe and silver snow,
and ivy growing on the walls,
i wish i could erase these dreams, i do.

but all my days are running by
in shopping malls with endless lines
i don't know how i got here, do you?

somewhere between the catalogs
of what to get for him
somewhere amidst the china dolls
my vision starts to spin

'cause i thought christmas was supposed to be
more than lighting up the christmas tree
more than filling up our socks with toys
more than all of this tremendous noise

so all i really mean to say
is let's not throw this time away
i'd rather just sip chocolate with you

and if you'd like to treat me nice
don't wait for snow don't wait for ice
i'm always in the season, are you?

somewhere on santa's list
my name's been crossed off with a slash
somewhere i'm gonna find a better way
to spend my cash

'cause i thought christmas was supposed to be
more than lighting up the christmas tree
more than filling up our socks with toys
more than all of this tremendous noise

i'm always in the season, are you?

12.05.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 05

I bought the Winter Songs album our first married Christmas season, shortly after seeing the "Winter Song" music video, by Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson, on YouTube. I can't resist female singer/songwriter music, apparently. I fell in love with the album (except for Katy Perry's rendition of "White Christmas," in which she sounds hung over). And this song quickly became my favorite. It's so cheery (even if it is about unrequited love) and the chorus seemed especially appropriate for a newlywed Christmas.

— Anna

Mistletoe and holly deck the halls
But you don't come around and you don't call
Well it's just like the season to be lonely
And my heart is beating for you only

Take my heart this Christmas
I'll wrap it in a ribbon and a bow
Yes take my heart this Christmas
Take it wherever you go

Everybody has someone to hold
Nestle by the fire in from the cold
But I don't hear the carols they are singing
And I've only got one thing good for giving

So take my heart this Christmas
I'll wrap it in a ribbon and a bow
Yes take my heart this Christmas
Take it wherever you go

All my bells are ringing just for you
And I got no desire for someone new

So take my heart this Christmas
I'll wrap it in a ribbon and a bow
Yes take my heart this Christmas
Take it wherever you go
Take it wherever you go

12.04.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 04

You know when you can't get a song out of your head? I can't get this song out of my head. And that will probably be the case until March.

Of all the Christmas songs — hymns, rock, pop, whatever — this is the catchiest. Complete with a slapstick in most versions, "Sleigh Ride" has just the right mix of musical precision and jovial spirit. It's the jazz. What makes Ella Fitzgerald's version unique to me, besides the great brass lines, is her tremendous voice, and that "gid-id-dy up" at 1:52. It's just so much fun. You can't help but tap your toe to this classic.

— Ian

Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring, ting, tingling, too
Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you
Outside the snow is falling and friends are calling, "Yoo hoo"
Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you

Giddy yap, giddy yap, giddy yap, let's go, let's look at the show

We're riding in a wonderland of snow

Giddy yap, giddy yap, giddy yap, it's grand, just holding your hand

We're gliding along with a song of a wintry fairyland

Our cheeks are nice and rosy and comfy, cozy are we

We're snuggled up together like two birds of a feather would be

Let's take that road before us and sing a chorus or two

Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you

Giddy yap, giddy yap, giddy yap, let's go, let's look at the show

We're riding in a wonderland of snow

Giddy yap, giddy yap, giddy yap, it's grand, just holding your hand

We're gliding along with a song of a wintry fairyland

Our cheeks are nice and rosy and comfy, cozy are we

We're snuggled up together like two birds of a feather would be

Let's take that road before us and sing a chorus or two

Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you

Sleigh ride together with you

12.03.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 03

I was a year late seeing Elf. Ian and I, still a fairly new couple, went to our college ministry's Christmas party and the movie was rolling in the background. When I commented I hadn't seen it before, Ian informed me it was only the best Christmas movie ever. He was right. I also discovered Zooey Deschanel and her amazing voice. While I'm a sucker for 50s Christmas music, Zooey and Leon have the advantage for their affiliation with an endearing movie and a first Christmas with the only guy I ever want to see under the mistletoe.

— Anna

I really can't stay / But baby, it's cold outside
I've got to go away / Baby, it's cold outside
This evening has been / Been hoping that you'd drop in
So very nice / I'll hold your hands, they're just like ice
My mother will start to worry / Beautiful, what's your hurry
And father will be pacing the floor / Listen to the fireplace roar
So really I'd better scurry / Beautiful, please don't hurry
Well maybe just a half a drink more / Put some records on while I pour

The neighbors might think / Baby, it's bad out there
Say, what's in this drink / No cabs to be had out there
I wish I knew how / Your eyes are like starlight now
To break the spell / I'll take your hat, your hair looks swell
I ought to say no, no, no, sir / Mind if I move in closer
At least I'm gonna say that I tried / What's the sense in hurting my pride?
I really can't stay / Baby don't hold out
Ahh, but it's cold outside

I simply must go / But baby, it's cold outside
The answer is no / Baby, it's cold outside
This welcome has been / I'm lucky that you dropped in
So nice and warm / Look out the window at that storm
My sister will be suspicious / Gosh, your lips look delicious
My brother will be there at the door / Waves upon a tropical shore
My maiden aunt's mind is vicious / Boy your lips look delicious
Well maybe just a cigarette more / Never such a blizzard before

I've got to get home / Baby, you'll freeze out there
Say, lend me your comb / It's up to your knees out there
You've really been grand / I thrill when you touch my hand
But don't you see / How can you do this thing to me?
There's bound to be talk tomorrow / Think of my life long sorrow
At least there will be plenty implied / If you caught pneumonia and died
I really can't stay / Get rid of that hold out
Ahh, but it's cold outside

12.02.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 02

Humans and elves alike select Christmas music in one of two ways: 1) via the artist method, and 2) via the song/theme method. "Lo! How a Rose E'er Blooming" is, I do believe, my all time favorite Christmas hymn, making it my quintessential choice via method 2.

I first heard this song at church, sometime during my elementary school years, on what was most assuredly a chilly night made warmer by Swiss Miss hot chocolate. I remember two particular things about hearing the song on that occasion. The first was the fervor with which my mother sang the song (which she knew very well). If you know my mom (or are my mom) you know that she (you) can belt it. The second was the captivating time signatures and gorgeously asymetric melody and harmonies. As a lover of most all things music, this second fact keeps me coming back to this song as the very first one I listen to every Christmas season. I'm currently in a Sufjan Stevens phase, hence the chosen arrangement. Bon apetit!

— Ian

Lo, how a Rose e'er blooming from tender stem hath sprung!
Of Jesse's lineage coming, as those of old have sung.
It came, a flower bright, amid the cold of winter,
when half spent was the night.

Isaiah 'twas foretold it, the Rose I have in mind;
and so then we behold it, the Virgin Mother kind.
To show God's love aright, she bore to us a Savior,
when half spent was the night.

12.01.2011

our musical advent calendar, day 01

Inspired by Pinterest, I wanted to do an advent calendar. And inspired by Advent Conspiracy, I wanted to make it about presence, not presents. Ian had a brilliant idea to use music. We each picked out some of our favorite Christmas songs and will be counting down together with festive tunes and the fond memories attached to each of them. And what better way to share our yuletide adventure with friends and family than here on the blog?

day 01. "I Celebrate the Day" - Relient K, Deck the Halls, Bruise Your Hand

I acquired this Relient K Christmas album thanks to my brother Nathan's couple years of super-fandom. As you may have guessed from the album title, they carried their quirky yet insightful signature songwriting into the holidays. I appreciate the punk versions of classics (ex. "12 Days of Christmas"), as well as the humor in their original songs (ex. "Santa Clause is Thumbing to Town"), but the song that rockets to the top of my Christmas list is "I Celebrate the Day." It connects Christmas and Easter in a way that never before had occurred to me, highlighting the juxtaposition of divinity and humanity. And it reminds me that Christmas isn’t about a sweet little baby in a manger, but about a Savior on a cross who, knowing all our failures, still chose to come and rescue us.

— Anna

And with this Christmas wish is missed
The point I could convey
If only I could find the words to say to let You know how much You've touched my life
Because here is where You're finding me, in the exact same place as New Year's eve
And from a lack of my persistency
We're less than half as close as I want to be

And the first time
That You opened Your eyes did You realize that You would be my Savior
And the first breath that left Your lips
Did You know that it would change this world forever

And so this Christmas I'll compare the things I felt in prior years
To what this midnight made so clear
That You have come to meet me here

To look back and think that
This baby would one day save me
In the hope that what You did
That you were born so I might live
To look back and think that
This baby would one day save me

And the first time
That You opened Your eyes did You realize that You would be my Savior
And the first breath that left Your lips
Did You know that it would change this world forever

And I, I celebrate the day
That You were born to die
So I could one day pray for You to save my life
pray for You to save my life
pray for You to save my life

thankful list | November

01. warmer weather after the unexpected snowstorm
02. our new space heater: why did we wait so long?
03. 2% spandex in my new jeans (the ones they replaced had no give. ouch.)
04. a great Skype session with Luis
05. the new Gmail iPhone app.
06. a hitch free shindig at work planned by yours truly
07. a husband bearing flowers after aforementioned shindig
08. a heart to heart with a great friend
09. friends as crazy about K-State sports as we are
10. a TV antenna that works (internet viewing was only lacking live football)
11. great friends to spend Thanksgiving with.
12. the ladies clobbering the lads in Celebrities.
13. only losing the rematch by 4 points when the names were stacked against us.
14. Thanksgiving food, particularly mashed potatoes and gravy.
15. and soul sweet taters.
16. and leftover soul sweet taters all weekend.
17. our cast iron dutch oven.
18. mom's football stew and buttermilk biscuit recipes.
19. Pushing Daisies season 2 on Blu-Ray.
20. my new sumi brush for SCRIPTschool.
21. video chats and phone calls when we can't be home.
22. the fireplace scent that has settled in our neighborhood.
23. goat cheese.
24. cheap tickets to CA for a wedding thanks to @JetBlueCheeps.
25. listening to Christmas music without dirty looks from Ian.
26. clean water.
27. Instagram.
28. sunshine.
29. fuzzy feelings after going through all our wedding cards for a project.
30. the [REUNION] Black Friday gift making open house.

Pages

12.31.2011

12.25.2011

12.24.2011

12.23.2011

12.22.2011

12.21.2011

12.20.2011

12.19.2011

12.18.2011

12.17.2011

12.16.2011

12.15.2011

12.14.2011

12.13.2011

12.12.2011

12.11.2011

12.10.2011

12.09.2011

12.08.2011

12.07.2011

12.06.2011

12.05.2011

12.04.2011

12.03.2011

12.02.2011

12.01.2011