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Christmas Carols and Other Fun Songs...

As the song goes, "Santa Claus is comin' to town", we realize that Christmas is already creeping up on us. It's only a month until Christmas and man, has the year gone by fast. I love Christmas, the music, the spirit and the joys, and of course the gift giving.

With the parades that march through town, Christmas decorations covering the interior of the local mall, and of course Christmas sales, you can't help getting caught in the spirit of Christmas.

The one thing that reminds me the most about Christmas is the music. Whether they play on the radio, in concerts or over the announcement systems of pretty much everywhere you go, it's hard not to get into that holiday groove. And then you tend to get the music playing in your head, and you start singing those Christmas carols at the top of your lungs. Why not? It's one of the fun parts about Christmas. I often find myself singing to Rudolph or Jingle Bells as I shop for Christmas presents. It's the Christmas music that gets me into the spirit of Christmas.

Earlier this year, in the midst of the Christmas in July summer sales, I started to miss the feeling of Christmas. So, like the Christmas freak I am, I hunted down my sister's Christmas CD's, only to make a mix tape. It has all my favourite Christmas tunes, from Alvin and the Chipmunk's "Hurry Christmas", to "You're a Mean One Mr. Grinch" (Newsong's version).

I have found myself falling in love with "O Holy Night", but I still can't seem to pinpoint who has the best version that I have ever heard (the original, Sandy Patti or Crystal Lewis). And my most favourite song is Jingle Bells by Michael W. Smith. Now, this isn't any ordinary Jingle Bells; it rocks all by itself! And then a compilation done by Point of Grace of "Let It Snow/ Sleigh Ride" is what makes me feel the Christmas cheer. I can listen to these three songs for hours.

Reminising over Christmas songs, I had to ask others what Christmas tune they loved the most. Amy MC, a 28 year old flight attendant said Mannheim Steamrollers' original and remix version of "God, Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen". Amy Hicks, 14, from California, said, "Breathe of Heaven" by Amy Grant. (This is one song that my friend Sarah Jane does so very well; she makes the song her own.)

I even asked my dad which was his favorite, and he responded, "Silent Night", I guess. My father loves The Gaither Vocal Band. Bill Gaither and original member Mark Lowry have each written some amazing Christmas songs.

There you have it! Everyone loves a good Christmas tune. So, as Christmas is finally here, join in the spirit and sing some songs at the top of your lungs. For those who can't sing, you can't go wrong with Jingle Bells!