Medley of Musical Memories

When I write my personal history next year, these will prompt my memory of Christmas:

The Nutcracker at Kingsbury Hall, U of U

and Peery’s Egyptian Theater, Ogden.

“Amahl and the Night Visitors”, an opera in one act by Gian Carlo Menotti (on TV).

Young boy’s performance of “O Holy Night” on Grandmother’s grand upright piano, Avenues.

Tabernacle Choir Christmas songs as a tradition on that special morning.

“Lullaby of Christmas” narrated by Gregory Peck; (this story on vinyl LP brought tears).

East High A cappella Choir performances and recording (LP) directed by Lorraine Bowman.

The Carpenters (sister and brother).

KWHO (1950s SLC) and Classical 89 BYU (station survivor!) with my favorite music of the season.

Handel’s “Messiah” oratorio (1741).

My wife Kay’s piano playing and teaching the Primary our favorite Christmas music from the Children’s Songbook.

A random list may help you rough-draft a history by category or topic.

Wishing you and your family a merry, musical Christmas!

granddaughter at Cannons' grand upright

Miracle of Memory

Nativity scene carved in wood from Israel

Gratitude for Jesus Christ, our Savior

Christmas caroling (Kay & Ned) to friendly neighbors nearby

Beloved stockings hung by the fireplace

Christmas Eve talent show with cousins at Cannon grandparents’ old Avenues home

Reading together Christmas Eve: Luke 2, the birth of Jesus – the real reason for celebrating

“The Christ Child” on YouTube since 2019 and companion video “Behind the Scenes” — precious perspective

Christmas morning fun routine to help children (youngest first in line) take it slowly and enjoy family all day including grapefruit for breakfast

Twelve Days ending with more gifts on January 6th, Three Kings Day (Epiphany)

“Leave the tree up until the 12th day, please.”

Loving memories — a miracle!

Kay’s Cannon Beach

Recalling a previous Tuesday post dated 11/27/2018, I am so grateful for the miracle of memories that make me happy.  No need for the Facebook prompt, “What’s on your mind?”  (My ocean-surf white noise helps, however.)

Each time we visited Cannon Beach [Oregon Coast], my sweetheart Kay and I anticipated a new experience; and we were never disappointed.  ...  It was especially a great getaway for our Kay, who needed to unwind from teaching high school.  A spiritual as well as physical renewal she so deserved.  In my mind, with forever-sweet memories, it will always be Kay's Cannon Beach.

Haystack Rock, 3 August 2012

night at Cannon Beach, 2 Aug 2012

Musical Journaling

The activity scheduled for us seniors this afternoon is to inspire an attitude of gratitude.  We are writing in a journal while listening to meditation music that could put us to sleep.  The easy part for me is writing thankfully.  The hard part is staying awake during my siesta time.

I am thankful for faith, family, friends, and this peaceful community.  For example, yesterday’s bus tour of historic Ogden went well for fun.  My wife Kay & I are blessed with self-reliant, loving children.  We enjoy forever friendships gained throughout our 51 years of marriage.  Kay & I share a love for good music, especially classical works we studied together at the University of Utah before our engagement.

We are grateful, wishing you and yours a happy, musical Thanksgiving ... with love.

Early Celebration

Beautifully decorated trees at a Utah Symphony concert and Deseret Book, an urge to avoid last-minute shopping, and Christmas music performed by young violinists at dinner tonight.  All inspire me to celebrate early and deliver gifts to our children at Thanksgiving time.

This laconic post (using very few words) is one of many appearing here like random thought.  Not a passing sentiment, for I am always grateful for Christmas and celebration of Christ’s birth.

Peaceful Parowan

Recently returned via Zion National Park and Cove Fort from visits with our young families in Prescott Arizona and Kanab Utah.  Fortunately I drove beyond busy Cedar City for a nicer, cheaper hotel in peaceful Parowan.  (The quiet town is on the map, but is not a tourist destination.)  I learned it is known as “southern Utah’s Mother Town”.

Recalled the favorite family story of a rattlesnake blocking the path from a campground restroom there.  My wife Kay and our little girls were terrified!  They quickly retreated inside until someone came to help, then returned to our calm camp in that quiet community — one of many adventures we never forget.

Despite my dislike for driving alone on road trips, I was at peace in Parowan.

blacksmith shop at historic Cove Fort 2017

garden at Cove Fort  for 150th

EMC Halloween

Remember 2020 being different?  My 10/31 post that year recalled the good old days: Halloween with our five little children was “Trick-or-Treat” time for them and “Meet-Your-Neighbors Night” for me.  My wife Kay’s delightful role was gypsy (“a nomadic or free-spirited person”), giving out candy and telling fun fortunes — legendary!

East Mill Creek, SLC Utah, was the ideal, peaceful neighborhood where our kids thrived and grew up.  A friendly family our age always invited us over to share their Halloween dinner tradition.  Once a year I had a perfect excuse to meet new neighbors and talk to old ones I hadn’t seen in twelve months ... like Mister Rogers saying, “Won’t you be my neighbor.”  (Did I mention treats the children shared with Dad afterward?)  A highlight for the kids one year was their all-out “spook alley” on a vacant lot nearby.

Let’s make more memories this holiday season!