Happy Holidays!

Magickal Graphics

I'd like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

And may the next year be filled with love, good health and peace to you all xxx

A Xmas Classic That Doesn't Annoy Me

This is a really beautiful song. I've always loved it, even when we used to sing it in school. Loved doing the 'Gloria' parts.



I just wish that Blackmore's Night were more popular in the UK as they surely deserve it. If their Christmas album Winter Carols was played all day in the shops rather than the usual cheesy Xmas trash that they like to bombard us with, then I would definitely stay around the shops longer.

The other day I was in a shop and I just couldn't stand all the noise, the crowds, and of course all the terrible Xmas songs. I couldn't wait to get home.

I've always hated shopping, but it's so much worse at this time of the year.

It's not going to be much of a Christmas for me and my family,anyway because of the recent loss of my dad, but this album is a comforting pleasure to listen to. As usual, music is helping me cope with yet another dark period in my life.

My Dad Would Have Been 70 Today

Dad and me many years ago

My dear dad, who passed away on 30th September this year, would have been 70 today. It's a sad day for me so of course I wanted to remember him. I still think of him every day but I know life has to go on. I believe he is still watching over me, indeed I have felt him near many times. He has visited me in my dreams a few times too, and he always looks happy and healthy. He always smiles at me, but doesn't speak in these dreams. I'm just glad that he is no longer in any pain, his soul free.

We won't be celebrating Christmas at our house this year. It wouldn't be right and I don't really feel like celebrating anyway. It will just be a quiet one, and that's the way I like it anyway.

Dad and me at my Open University graduation ceremony in 2006

Dad had a huge collection of records from the 60s, which are all scratched now unfortunately. His favourites were Elvis Presley and some movie soundtracks, especially the music of Ennio Morricone. This is really amazing music and it will always remind me of my wonderful dad. I've just had a little weep listening to this.

Greensleeves

One of my all-time favourite tunes and performed here by one of my favourite bands, Blackmore's Night



Have a nice weekend!