Christmas carols

I've been singing Christmas carols to my son before bed lately, and one of our favorites is Away in a Manger. I know the first verse by heart but I have trouble with the second and third verses, so I've just looked up the words to remind myself. I've been singing the British version of it which I find easier since it's a bit lower. Here is a nice recording of it. I also like the look of this Christmas Carols CD which has good reviews, one which says it has no drama, theatricals or show-boating, which quite a few in our current collection seem to have.

(Picture via Strawberrysweetdream)

The scent of pine

Don't you just love the scent of pine? We bought a real Christmas tree last weekend and every time I come down the stairs the scent of pine hits me. It smells so Christmassy and amazing. It has inspired me to try a few family Christmas cookie recipes. Now if I could just save them until Christmas! I'm having a real problem with the macaroons. Tomorrow evening I'm going to try making this garland for our tree. I think it's just what it needs.

(Photo via KristyWes)