My favorite Christmas song

The words and music to the Christmas song Little Drummer Boy was composed by Katherine K. Davis, Henry Onorati and Harry Simeone in 1958. The lyrics of Little Drummer Boy consist of no less than 21 rum pum pum pum' - a major part of the song and therefore presenting an apparently easy task for the lyricist! However, Little Drummer Boy has been a huge hit for several artists. The most notable rendition was created by the most unlikely combination of Bing Crosby and David Bowie. This version of Little Drummer Boy was a massive hot for the artists and was in fact Bing Crosby's most successful recording since the legendary White Christmas.

Little Drummer Boy: Lyrics

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?

Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum
The ox and lamb kept time, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my drum for Him, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum
Me and my drum.

As long as I can remember, this story and song has been my favorite Christmas story. When I hear the story, I always get teary eyed and emotional. The story tugs at my heart strings because the poor little boy comes across a new baby king. He feels inadequate and unworthy to be before the young king, but he decides that all he can give is part of himself by playing his drum for the king. It was this gift among the gold, silver and precious gifts that the king recognizes with a smile.
The song reminds me that no matter how unworthy I am to have a savior, if I give myself to Him and try my best to keep his commandments, then I can be pleasing to my Savior.

Holidays

The holidays, mainly Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years are a time that most people look forward to. For the past few years, I have not. I have dreaded the coming of these days with bitterness and fear knowing that I would probably feel disappointment and a longing for something unknown.

This year is different. I have a peace this year and feel a happiness that I haven't felt in years. I already have our tree up. Brandon picked it out and decorated it. I think it is the most beautiful tree I have ever seen. I have already finished my shopping and was excited about wrapping the presents and getting them under the tree. Our little apartment is meagerly decorated but definitely has that festive feeling when you walk inside. I am looking forward to going to parties and having fun with friends instead of sitting at home feeling all alone.

I have seen many changes in my life in the past two years. I have bittersweet feelings about some of the changes but I can see life flourishing in myself and in my son. A lightness and easy going feeling has come to both of us as we move forward in our lives.

I have many friends that have helped me through some terrible times and often find myself in tears as I realize how thankful I am for the hands and shoulders that have carried me through. My wonderful friend Dan who has stood by me faithfully and been a rock and foundation for me to stay above the troubled water's waves. My sisters Diane and Shirley that have not pressed me for anything but have shown unconditional love for me and Brandon. My brother, Jeff, who has done the same. All of which have never judged but have all been a great support. My parents who have taken me under their wings and shielded me from harm and given support like no one else can do.

I am a blessed person and I thank God for all my friends and family every day. I am finally able to love life again and with God's help I hope I will encourage others to find joy not only in the holidays but also in each and every day that we are blessed with.

Out of Breath

The other day we passed a house that had about 10 of those big inflatable christmas decorations in the front yard. Brandon looked for a moment and said,

"Wow, I bet they are out of breath."