First Day of 2025

 During Hannukah we played out favourite Dridel game.

Last Day of 2024

Happy Kwanzaa

 Today begins our celebrations. We created our own version of a mkeka (woven mats) along with one homemade corn (known as mahindi). Although no traditional foods like shrimp gumbo, coconut sweets, or fried bananas we did have some pizza. I am going to strive to get a unity cup sometime however for now we designed a nice one. We lite a candle and made a craft candle version and a kinara to place the candles upon. Tonight we lite one card and we spoke our greetings, dad even agreed. To symbolize unity we watched a movie called Baby Boy.

 

Day One – Traditional Gifts

After we light the first two candles together as a family, we start the evening with a special meal, to commemorate the rededication of the temple, and there is always Challah. We play dreidel and eat chocolate coins after dinner. I have known adults who have fun with this and have an ugly Hannukah sweater contest while playing dreidel or wear dreidel head-boppers to keep it fun. Keep it traditional and use real dreidels and teach the kids the meaning of the Hebrew letters while they collect their stash of gelt!

Day Two – Books 

There are a lot of great books for both children and adults out there. Kids can start a tradition of reading these great books during the Hanukkah season. They range from Elmo’s Little Dreidel to Hanukkah coloring and sticker books. Teens and adults can have fun with Mad Libs for Hanukkah.

Day Three – Games and Puzzles 

You can continue the dreidel fun with more complicated updated versions of the game. Kids Dreidel Pop N Spin Game on Amazon is a new one I will be getting for Zechariah. Last year he got the Hanukkah Memory Game and it was his favorite according to my daughter. For the older kids get more age-appropriate games like this one I found for my Grandaughter. Escape Room In a Box!

Day Four – Pajama Night! 

Or some other gift that is practical. It could be everyone gets new hats and gloves for winter. I like pajama night because everyone can get in their new pajamas and play board games. I plan on getting my daughter a new pajama set she has wanted for the baby that comes with mittens already attached.

Day Five – A Family Gift 

A night out with the whole family! Bowling, movies, and pizza out make for a great family night after the candles are lit!

Day Six – Giving to Others 

Come up with a giving plan for the year. The whole family decides which charity they would like to give to, how much and for how long. This year I am looking at the local Family Homeless Shelter or Habitat for Humanity is another favorite charity.

A friend suggested this as an activity! “When the kids were younger, we’d do a craft to share with neighbors, focuses on Jesus being the Light of the World — one year, I got a bunch of little flashlights from Oriental Trading and printed little tags I made. We tied the tags and the kids tied them to doorknobs in the neighborhood (with an adult escort).” Thanks, Twyla! This is such a cool suggestion!

Day Seven – Handmade Gifts 

This one can get messy with the littles so plan ahead. Pull out your craft box and get creative. My granddaughter likes to do decorated picture frames as a gift. You could also do T-Shirt art and have the kids make their own Hanukkah shirts for next year.

Day Eight – Traditional Food Night 

I am not a huge fan of Jewish food, but Hanukkah foods are the best ones in my opinion and there are some favorites. Traditional foods are fried in oil to represent the miracle of the oil for the Festival of Lights. Potato Latkes and Sufganiyot, a traditional doughnut, are made at Hanukkah. Also, noodle kugel can be served in two ways. Sweet or savory. Sweet as a dessert or savory alongside your traditional brisket. Have the kids help in the kitchen for the final meal!

christmas day, Chiefs game on Netflix, Hannukka

 Chiefs won

Christmas Eve

Joyful Holidays to you!

Today Barron wrote a nice letter to our Veterans for Christmas. It is a free service.

 https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/contact-us/write-troops.html

 St. Lucia Day and Friday the 13th was yesterday. 

 https://rhubarbandwren.co.uk/how-to-make-a-pinecone-robin/

 https://museum.wales/articles/1188/New-Year-Traditions-Collecting-Calennig/

 An annual New York City tradition, the delightfully decorated Origami Holiday Tree has been a popular feature of the holiday season at the Museum for decades.

With a nod to turning the calendar page on the 2024 leap year, this holiday season’s 13-foot tree, Jumping for Joy, celebrates the many animals with a particular prowess that sets them apart—hopping, pouncing, leaping!

Among the more than 1,000 origami pieces decorating the tree will be intricately designed models of rabbits, kangaroos, grasshoppers, frogs, squirrels, porpoises, whales, the newly discovered leaping leech, and cicadas, two broods of which emerged together this year for the first time since 1803!

Produced in partnership with OrigamiUSA, the Origami Holiday Tree is delightfully decorated with hand-folded paper models created by local, national, and international origami artists. 

The Making of the Origami Holiday Tree

More in Origami at the Museum

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One 13-Foot Tree, 1,000 Origami Models: A Spectacular Museum Tradition

The 2020 Origami Holiday Tree is displayed on a pedestal in the Museum's Grand Gallery.

D. Finnin/© AMNH

https://www.amnh.org/explore/origami/making-of

Early each year, as the days begin to get a bit longer and the first signs of spring crop up in Central Park, Ros Joyce and Talo Kawasaki, volunteers from OrigamiUSA and the designers of the Museum’s Origami Holiday Tree start planning for the year ahead. 

They begin combing the Museum’s halls in search of inspiration—going from floor to floor to decide on a perfect theme and to find just the right exhibits to re-create as origami models on the tree.

Visit this year's Origami Holiday Tree.

Precedent is no limit: “Often,” says Joyce, “we see something in the Museum that we want on the tree that has never been folded, so we have to design a model and find a way to fold it.”

With a theme in place, in April the team is ready for action. Lists of models are compiled, paper of many colors and textures is purchased, and volunteers—both children and adults—are enlisted from all over the world and as far away as Japan to fold the intricately complex models—some of which can take days or even weeks to perfect. Eventually, the volunteers create hundreds of new models. 

After months of folding, in late September the origami pieces begin arriving at the Museum, where the nonprofit OrigamiUSA is housed, just in time for Joyce and Kawasaki to sift through the archives to see which additional models they will need to fill out the tree. The Origami Holiday Tree has been a feature of the Museum’s winter season for more than 40 years; with more than four decades of origami neatly stashed in ten large boxes there is no shortage to the selection.

Some of the highlights include a forty-year-old model of a pterosaur, an extinct vertebrate that was the first to evolve powered flight folded for one of the first origami trees in the early 1970s; a ferocious saber-tooth tiger, and a giant star mobile made up of more than 30 smaller pieces that decorates the top of the tree.

Once the model selections have been made Joyce and Kawasaki begin finalizing the arrangement and their sketches for the tree. “Ultimately we look at the color, size, and texture,” Joyce explains. “We sketch to see how the models are going to fit together to give the tree depth and shape.”

With the final decisions made, after nearly a year of preparation, Joyce, Kawasaki, and the team have only four days to decorate the 13-foot tree before the crowds begin lining up the Monday before Thanksgiving. “It’s a long process but it’s a labor of love,” Joyce says. “In the end it’s all worth it to see the kids and adults light up when they see the tree year after year.” 

st. lucia day

Animal Resemblances

 Resemblances:

Blackbirds never move far from the nest - psychological term could be used for kids who wont leave home without being pushed. 

Artic Tern parents are very over protective

A polar bear mother is like a single mother stuggling to provide for her cub

A mother finding her body again is similar to a wild cat held in captivity being released into the world learning how to become rewired again.

Perhaps the smartest person in the entire country is equivilant to South Africia's the dog heasded Baboon

The people who like to escape the Canadian winters and travel to florida are sort of like an Artic Tern they get to have two summers. migrate away.

Story boook idea  as she was doing research through a  book she diesocered the where to buy section his shop listing. It had been manhy moons since his name or his shop seeped into her mind. It was strange how a page in a book, a reference at that, sparked the love that she once held for that gentleman. The unknown love that never became, the inoocence the experience, the curitosity that only an older man could find within a younger woman's soul. Passion in one word. How curiously strang eit was to have  discoved such a page from a atime in her life when that chapter of pain was to remain closed.

The Persian New Year has began on March 20, 2023 and we would like to wish everyone a beutiful celebrating moment. I was searching for some sort of virtual table that we could set online since we are in a place where there isn't really a place for a table which got me thinking of families or couples who cannot be together during this festive time if there was some sort of app or webpage perhaps virtually they could celebrate together although I do not have the technological skills to do so.  Nowruz

Advent gifted by Busy Moms Do Piano

Input your email at: https://blog.busymomsdopiano.com/musical-advent-calendar/ and you shall receive a free pdf advent calendar -Thank you Carly you are gift yourself! 

Day One: Played Overture By Duke Ellington and drank a favourite beverage some Brisk Ice Tea, it is not hot cocoa as suggested however we enjoy it. 

Day Two: Episode 59: Bach’s Christmas Oratorio from https://busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/59/

Carly types, "Season’s greetings, music lovers! As the festive spirit fills the air, Busy Kids Love Music brings you a special treat in Episode 59 – a closer look at J.S. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio. Amidst the sea of holiday classics, this Baroque masterpiece might be a hidden gem for some, and I’m here to unwrap its musical brilliance.

Step into the enchanting world of 1734, where Bach, serving as the music director for two Leipzig churches, gifted the world with a six-part musical tapestry – the Christmas Oratorio. In this episode, we explore the intricacies of this Baroque treasure, immersing ourselves in the joyous sounds of the season.

The Christmas Oratorio is a unique creation, composed to align with the liturgical calendar of Germany during that era. Running from December 25th to January 6th, each of the six parts corresponds to one of the feast days within the 12 days of Christmas. Bach’s masterful composition guides us through the religious significance of each day, offering a musical journey that resonates with the spirit of the season.

But before we delve into the auditory delights of the Christmas Oratorio, let’s brush up on our musical vocabulary. An oratorio, a term we’ve encountered before with Handel’s Messiah, is a grand musical work written for orchestra and voices, typically based on a religious text. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio stands as a testament to the expressive power of this form, capturing the essence of the holiday season in every note.

Join me in this festive episode as we unwrap the layers of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, savoring beautiful excerpts that capture the magic of the holiday season. Whether you’re a Bach aficionado or a newcomer to Baroque brilliance, this episode promises to be a delightful musical journey that adds a touch of classical magic to your holiday celebrations. "

Day Three: Barron read The Nutcracker and I played our harmonica, ukelele, and recorder to add sound effects to our Christmas Book.

Day Four: We listened to Franz Liszt - The Christmas Tree Suite (3 MILLION VIEWS FINALE) at: https://youtu.be/3g-Wsjv8ia0?feature=shared and drew our Christmas Tree.

Day Five: Learn about Liszt's Christmas Tree suite by listening to Episode 86: Christmas Tree Suite at: https://busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/86/ Carly discusses, "As we embrace the festive spirit of the holiday season, Episode #86 of Busy Kids Love Music promises to be a delightful discovery for both seasoned music lovers and curious newcomers. Today, we’re unwrapping the musical treasure of Franz Liszt’s Christmas Tree Suite — a charming and unexpectedly accessible collection that captures the enchantment of the holiday season.**A Hidden Gem by Franz Liszt:**

One of the joys of producing this podcast is stumbling upon musical gems that are, perhaps surprisingly, new to even the most seasoned musicians. In today’s episode, we embark on a journey into the world of Franz Liszt, the renowned Austrian composer and pianist, to explore a piece that may be unfamiliar to many: the Christmas Tree Suite.**Liszt: Beyond the Virtuoso:**

While Liszt is often celebrated for his virtuosic piano compositions, the Christmas Tree Suite offers a different facet of his genius. Composed with a delicate touch, this collection captures the innocence, joy, and magic of the holiday season, revealing a side of Liszt that may not be immediately associated with his more renowned works.**Accessible Melodies for All Ages:**

What makes the Christmas Tree Suite stand out is its accessibility. Liszt crafts a musical narrative that invites listeners of all ages into the heart of holiday festivities. From the playful “Christmas Tree” to the tender “Ave Maria,” each piece unfolds like a musical storybook, weaving the listener through the emotions and imagery of the season.**A Musical Yuletide Journey:**

In today’s episode, we’ll explore each delightful movement of the Christmas Tree Suite, sharing the magic of Liszt’s compositions and unraveling the stories behind the notes. From the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree to the gentle lullabies that echo through the festive air, Liszt’s music paints a vivid picture of the holiday season.**Rediscover the Magic of Liszt:**

Whether you’re already a fan of Franz Liszt or encountering his work for the first time, Episode #86 invites you to rediscover the magic of this celebrated composer through the lens of the Christmas Tree Suite. Join me as we unwrap the musical gifts that Liszt has left for us, each melody a testament to the enduring enchantment of the holiday season.**Wishing You a Musical Holiday Wonderland:**

From my musical family to yours, Busy Kids Love Music extends warm wishes for a holiday season filled with harmonious melodies, joyous celebrations, and the discovery of musical treasures. "

Day Six: Play Christmas Carol Charades- Act Out Your Favourite Carols without Singing- Guess the Song!  We acted out Frosty the Snowman, Silent Night, and Jingle Bells.

Day Seven:  We made a Christmas Card for a friend (a family member) while listening to: Händel - For unto us a Child is born from Messiah (WarsawPhilh Orchestra and Choir, Haselböck) at: https://youtu.be/CHK8hJ22SPw?feature=shared 

Day Eight: Learn about Handel's Messiah in this podcast: Episode 8: Handel’s Messiah at: https://busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/8/ Carly explains, 

"Episode 8 of Busy Kids Love Music is a thrilling exploration into the grandeur of Handel’s Messiah, one of the most celebrated and iconic compositions in the world of classical music. Join me on a majestic musical journey as we unravel the genius of George Frideric Handel, decipher some fancy musical terms, and immerse ourselves in the timeless beauty of Messiah.

Before we dive into the enchanting world of Messiah, let’s get acquainted with the mastermind behind the music – George Frideric Handel. Discover the life and times of this prolific composer whose creative genius left an indelible mark on the world of classical music. From his humble beginnings to becoming a musical icon, Handel’s story adds depth to the appreciation of Messiah.

In this episode, we’re demystifying some big, fancy words often associated with classical music. What exactly is an oratorio, and what role does the libretto play? Join me as we break down these terms, making them accessible for young minds and providing a key to understanding the structure and narrative of Handel’s Messiah.

As we delve into the heart of Messiah, I’ll treat our listeners to selected excerpts from this monumental composition. From the jubilant “Hallelujah” chorus to the exquisite “Aria: Every Valley Shall Be Exalted,” each piece tells a unique story and showcases Handel’s unparalleled ability to evoke emotion through music. It’s a listening experience that will captivate and inspire, offering a glimpse into the beauty of oratorio.

Busy Kids Love Music is committed to blending education with entertainment, and this episode is no exception. I’ll provide valuable insights into the historical context, musical elements, and significance of Handel’s Messiah, making it an engaging learning experience for young minds.

Whether you’re a parent looking to introduce your child to the brilliance of classical compositions or a young music enthusiast eager to explore the magic of Handel’s Messiah, Episode 8 is a must-listen. Subscribe to Busy Kids Love Music on your preferred podcast platform, gather around with your little ones, and let the majestic sounds of Messiah transport you to a world of musical wonder.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey into the heart of Handel’s masterpiece. It’s time to let the music of Messiah uplift your spirits and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the beauty of classical music. Happy listening! "

Day Nine: We created a Musical WishList of gifts we would love to recieve and give that are music related or musical instruments. We hoped for a keyboard, tamborine, harmonika, and recorder. 

Day Ten: Draw a picture of a Winter Nature Scene while listening to Go Tell it on the Mountain by Sing Out Gospel Choir at: https://youtu.be/39N_mqPT4hA?feature=shared 

Day Eleven: Learn about Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker in this Podcast Episode 9 The Nutcracker at https://busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/9/ Carly informs us, 

"The Nutcracker is perhaps the most well-known of ballets, and chances are, you’re hearing some of this famous music quite often during this holiday season! Episode #9 of Busy Kids Love Music is a special treat for your ears and imaginations as we delve into the enchanting world of “The Nutcracker.” This time, we’re taking a storytelling approach, weaving the magical narrative of this timeless ballet while treating you to delightful excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s renowned Nutcracker suite.

Join me as we step into the pages of a magical storybook and follow the adventures of Clara, the Nutcracker, and the Sugar Plum Fairy. The Nutcracker ballet is a tale of dreams, enchantment, and the wondrous journey of a young girl into the Land of Sweets. As I narrate this captivating story, you’ll be transported into a world filled with snowflakes, dancing dolls, and the mesmerizing melodies of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker suite.

Immerse yourself in the sounds of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece as I bring the Nutcracker story to life through carefully selected musical excerpts. From the playful “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” to the majestic “Waltz of the Flowers,” each piece serves as a musical chapter, enhancing the storytelling experience and igniting the imagination.

Busy Kids Love Music is committed to making classical music accessible and enjoyable for young minds. In this storytelling episode, I not only aim to entertain but also to provide insights into the orchestral elements and compositional brilliance of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker suite. It’s a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Whether you’re a parent eager to share the joy of classical ballet with your child or a young listener ready to be swept away by a magical narrative, Episode #9 is a must-listen. Subscribe to Busy Kids Love Music on your preferred podcast platform, gather around with your little ones, and let the Nutcracker’s magical tale unfold.

Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the beauty and wonder of “The Nutcracker” through the combination of storytelling and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. It’s time to let your imagination soar and dance along with the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Land of Sweets. Happy listening! "

Day Twelve: Christmas Carol Karaoke Sing Your Favourite Christmas Carols as a family with a Karaoke style sing-along. Barron chose Jingle Bells and thia was the video we sang along to: Christmas Carols - Jingle Bells (Karaoke Version) https://youtu.be/Z8-jYQhqK3s?feature=shared 

Day Thirteen:We lite candles while listening to this song: Christmas - Santa Lucia Sweden at: https://youtu.be/i2-Q_ObdE-4?feature=shared

Day Fourteen: Learn about 3 Christmas Carols in this podcast: https://busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/35/ Carly states,

"Welcome to a festive edition of Busy Kids Love Music Podcast: Episode #35 – A Closer Look at 3 Christmas Carols! As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the joyous melodies of Christmas carols to set the festive spirit aglow. In today’s episode, we unwrap the stories behind three timeless classics: “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” “Go Tell it on the Mountain,” and “Joy to the World.” Join me on this musical journey as we delve into the origins, evolutions, and fascinating tales that make these carols cherished staples of the season.

Discover the rich tapestry of collaboration that weaves through the decades, shaping the versions of these carols we now hold dear. From lyricists to composers, each iteration carries the mark of artistic minds coming together to create the timeless tunes that have become an integral part of our holiday traditions.

Explore the captivating history of “Go Tell it on the Mountain” and its transformation into a show-stopper for the renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers. Uncover the power of this carol as it transcends cultural boundaries, becoming a symbol of resilience and celebration.

Prepare to be intrigued as we unravel the surprising story behind one of these carols—a song not originally intended for Christmas at all. The revelation of its unexpected journey to becoming a festive favorite adds an extra layer of charm to its enduring appeal.

Tune in to Episode #35 of Busy Kids Love Music Podcast for a closer look at the enchanting stories behind “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” “Go Tell it on the Mountain,” and “Joy to the World.” From collaborative efforts to unexpected twists of fate, each carol has a unique tale waiting to be discovered. "

Day Fifteen:  Make DIY Shakers using rice and empty plaatic bottles to decorate them and have a family percussion jam to your favourite Chriatmas song. We did not have rice or bottles so we improvised with an empty Kinder Egg container and some needles from a branch off our tree. Barron decorated the shaker with our newly purchaaed Christmas stickers and we took turns jamming to Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton - Medley: Winter Wonderland / Sleigh Ride (Official Audio) at: https://youtu.be/IMX1SXqkxoQ?feature=shared 

Day Sixteen:  We drew, instead of trying to cut out, snowflakes and snowflake patterns while listening to Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker (The Royal Ballet) from the Royal Ballet and Opera: https://youtu.be/zV1qLYukTH8?feature=shared 

Day Seventeen: We learnt about O Come, O Come, Emmanuel from the podcast: https://busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/60/ Carly begin, 

"Episode 60 of Busy Kids Love Music is here, and this time, we’re diving into the rich history and haunting beauty of a Christmas carol that transcends time – “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” Join me as we unwrap the layers of this ancient hymn, exploring its origins, symbolism, and its unique place in the festive musical canon.

What sets “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” apart is its departure from the typically jubilant tone of many Christmas carols. Described by some as “haunting” or “dark,” the melody of this carol carries a unique and emotive quality that sets it apart from the seasonal norm. As we listen, we’ll explore the emotions evoked by this distinctive tune and I’ll invite you to share the words you would use to describe its music.

The roots of this captivating carol extend deep into the annals of history. Penned in Latin, the original text’s exact origin remains shrouded in mystery, with some speculating its creation as early as the 11th or 12th century. The hymn’s survival is evidenced by the publication of its original text in 1710, marking its presence in the Christmas repertoire.

The familiar tune, known as “Veni Emmanuel,” became linked with the hymn in 1851, adding a timeless quality to the carol’s enduring legacy. The lyrics, a paraphrase of the O Antiphons, offer a unique perspective, as each antiphon represents a name or attribute of Christ. These were used in evening worship services during the last seven days of Advent, building anticipation for the Christmas celebration.

In this episode, we delve into the mystique of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” exploring its origins, its transformation over the centuries, and its enduring appeal. Whether you’re captivated by the historical significance, the emotive melody, or the spiritual depth of the lyrics, this episode promises to be a musical journey that adds a touch of enchantment to your holiday season. " 

Day Eighteen: We made a playlist of our favourite songs learnt from this advent.  Advent Playlist -4 songs: 

Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker (The Royal Ballet) By Royal Ballet and Opera.

Christmas Carols - Jingle Bells (Karaoke Version) By Sing King.

Winter Wonderland / Sleigh Ride (Official Audio) By Kenny Rogwrs and Dolly Parton.

The Ronettes - Sleigh Ride (Official Music Video).

Day Nineteen: We listened to The Ronettes - Sleigh Ride (Official Music Video) at: https://youtu.be/DkXIJe8CaIc?feature=shared while playing our bells collected from Lindt chocolate Bunnies. 

Day Twenty: We learnt about sleigh bells from the podcast busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/111/ where Carly says, 

"Today on the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, we’re diving into the festive world of sleigh bells, those magical jingling companions that add a sprinkle of holiday cheer to our favorite tunes. In this episode, we’ll be unwrapping the history, craftsmanship, and musical significance of sleigh bells, exploring how these small but mighty instruments have become an iconic symbol of the holiday season. Whether you’re a budding musician or simply someone who appreciates the magic of the holiday season, this episode is sure to resonate with the sound of joy and festive spirit. Get ready to jingle all the way through the captivating world of sleigh bells!"

Day Twenty-One: Have a Holiday Dance Party in your living room to your playlist from Day 18. We decided to dance the entire playlist and dance where we could in our room.

Day Twenty-Two:We enjoyed some raisin bread which was sort of a Christmas treat while listening to: Pentatonix - Silent Night (Live) (Official Video) at: https://youtu.be/sme8N2pzRx8?feature=shared Later we had some chicken pot pies. 

Day Twenty-Three: We learnt about a re-imagined nutcracker from this podcast: https://busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/85/ called a Jazzy Nutcracker. Carly lets us know,

"As we find ourselves in the midst of the festive season, Busy Kids Love Music welcomes you to an enchanting celebration of creativity and musical brilliance. In Episode #85, we’re unwrapping a musical gem that marries the classical magic of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker with the innovative jazz stylings of the legendary Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn.

**Embracing the Nutcracker Tradition:**

For those who have been on your musical journey with me for awhile, you’re likely aware of my deep admiration for Tchaikovsky’s timeless masterpiece, The Nutcracker. It has long been a delightful entry point for introducing young ones to the wonders of classical music. However, in this episode, we’re about to embark on a jazzy adventure that offers a fresh perspective on this beloved ballet.

**Duke Ellington: A Jazz Pioneer:**

A few episodes back, we delved into the genius of Duke Ellington, a pioneering force in the world of jazz. Now, imagine the meeting of two creative powerhouses – Ellington and Tchaikovsky. The result? A jazzy reinterpretation of the Nutcracker suite that adds a vibrant, toe-tapping twist to the classical masterpiece.

**The Nutcracker’s Jazzy Transformation:**

In today’s episode, we’ll unravel the story behind Duke Ellington’s collaboration with Billy Strayhorn to transform Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker into a swinging, improvisational jazz suite. From the iconic “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” to the spirited “Overture,” every piece undergoes a captivating metamorphosis into the world of jazz.

**A Symphony of Learning and Joy:**

At Busy Kids Love Music, my goal is to make music education a joyous and immersive experience for families. Episode #85 invites you to join me in exploring the fusion of classical and jazz genres, offering a unique perspective on a holiday favorite. The jazzy Nutcracker provides a fantastic opportunity for even the youngest listeners to engage with the magic of both musical worlds.

**Celebrate the Magic of Jazzy Nutcracker:**

As the holiday season unfolds, let the melodies of Duke Ellington’s and Billy Strayhorn’s Nutcracker transport your family to a world where classical elegance meets the spirited rhythms of jazz. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Nutcracker or a newcomer to its enchanting tale, this episode promises a delightful journey filled with surprises and toe-tapping joy.

**Tune In and Jazz Up Your Holidays:**

Don’t miss Episode #85 of Busy Kids Love Music, where the enchanting fusion of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker and Ellington’s and Strayhorn’s jazz magic awaits. Gather your loved ones, tune in, and let the jazzy Nutcracker cast its spell of festive cheer over your holiday season.

**Wishing You a Jazzy Holiday Symphony:**

From my musical family to yours, Busy Kids Love Music wishes you a harmonious and jazzy holiday season. May the magic of music bring joy, warmth, and festive melodies to your celebrations. "

Day Twenty-Four: Create a video recording of your family singing a Christmas Carol and send it to a loved one.

Evening of Little Candles

Today is Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day and in Columbia an evening to lite candles. We lite our candles: 

Year 2 of Christmas Film Countdown

December 1: Home Alone

December 2: Home Alone 2: Lost in New York

December 3: Home Alone 3

December 4: Home Alone 4: Taking Back the House

December 5: Home Alone 5: The Holiday Heist

December 6: Home Sweet Home Alone 6

December 7: Jingle All The Way

December 8: Jingle All The Way 2

December 9: Benjie's Very Own Christmas Story (1978)

December 10: Elf

December 11: How The Grinch Stole Christmas

December 12: An Elf's Story: The Elf on the Shelf Netflix (2011)

December 13: Sound of Christmas (2016)

December 14: Christmas with the Kranks

December 15: The Guardians of the Glaxay Holiday Special (2022)

December 16: Magic Stocking (Hallmark 2016)

December 17: Every Christmas Has a Story (2016) 

December 18: Spruces and Pines

December 19: Christmas Crush

December 20: Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever (Disney+)

December 21: That Christmas 2024 (Netflix)

December 22: Delivery By Christmas

December 23: The Knight Before Christmas

December 24:  A Bad Mom's Christmas

December 25: Holidate

Evening of Dec 7 Little Candles

http://www.linglechapel.org/prayers-while-lighting-a-candle.html

One Little Candle 

I lit a candle tonight, in honor of you  

Remembering your life, and all the times we'd been through. 

 

Such a small little light the candle made  

until I realized how much in darkness it lit the way. 

 

All the tears I've cried in all my grief and pain  

what a garden they grew,watered with human rain. 

 

I sometimes can't see beyond the moment, in hopeless despair. But then your memory sustains me, in heartaches repair. 

 

I can wait for the tomorrow,when my sorrows ease. Until then,I'll light this candle, and let my memories run free 

 

~written by Sheila Simmons, Dallas, GA  

In Memory of Steven Simmons  

This wonderful article from:https://www.thereisadayforthat.com/holidays/colombia/day-of-the-little-candles states, "Dia de las Velitas, the Day of the Little Candles or Little Candles’ Night is celebrated each year on 7th December. This is observed as a traditional holiday in Colombia. The festival begins at sunset on 7th December and ends at sunrise on 8th December. The celebration is all about the eve of Immaculate Conception and 8th December marks unofficially as the start of the Christmas Season in Colombia.

People place paper lanterns and candles on their windowsills on this particular night. The candles and lanterns are also placed on porches, balconies, streets, sidewalks, squares and parks. Everywhere you turn, you will be able to see these candles and lanterns. They are placed to honour Virgin Mary and the Immaculate Conception. It is a traditional ritual on 8th December for all houses in Colombia to hoist white flags with the Virgin’s image and this flag is made to fly all day long. Numerous events are held on this day, ranging from competitions to firework displays.

Homes, landmarks and tombs in cemeteries are illuminated on the eve of 8th December to celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception as a mark of respect to honour the maternity of Virgin Mary and also to bring in the holiday season as a grand welcome. This festival is given high importance in Colombia.

Celebration of the Little Candles’ Night in Colombia dates back to 1854. That was when Pope Pius IX stated the dogma of the Virgin Mary’s Immaculate Conception and published it as `Ineffabilis Deus’ as an Apostolic constitution.

At the time, people were excited in anticipation of this decision and lit paper lanterns and candles as a sign of support of this spiritual idea. Colombia’s Catholic Church kept this celebration alive since then and has made it an annual festival of lighting the candles on 7th December’s night.

Advent Candle, Advent Book, Our Tree, Grinch Donughts and first Cobbs Visit

Our second Christmas tree ever happenes today Barron got a real Elf on the Shelf and a lovely Christmas Tree from Home Depot where we encountered the kindest, friendliest staff and our Cobbs visit with the most charming, perfect, lovely staff member. It was a day to feel part of a good community, although it was a rather blustery morning with 21 km winds and -2C weather! We also got a chance to have some limited edition Krispy Kreme Grinch donughts aling with original glazed (Barron's favourite.)

Advent Sunday begins today and for once we did not discover it late, however we still do not have the purple and pink candles so we lite our candles that we had and sang along: 

Candle, Candle Burning Bright

Shining in the Cold Winter Night

Candle, Candle Burning Bright

Fill Our Hearts with Christmas Light

First Sunday happened to be December 1 and we lite the first purple (well we never had enough money so we used our other wonderful pumpkin scented candle) to represent Hope. 

Source: https://youtu.be/pyZAx2Z8AtY

We got our first advent book collection from Usborne which is a book a day Countdown to Christmas. It is so enchanting, charming, whismy, cozy, and rather lovely.