Among the prevailing duties that kept me offline last week were presentations of the Christmas version of "When Swing Was King" at three different facilities. All went extremely well, putting Claire and I, the residents, and the activities directors all deeply into the Christmas spirit.Our Christmas version of "When Swing Was King" incorporated both the festive side of a big band holiday and also several songs which emphasized the religious significance of Christ's Advent. The accompanying photo presentation did the same. The result was what we hope for from all our Christmas parties -- a lively sense of good fun and fellowship, an appreciation of the unique beauty and memories which Christmas brings, and a time for serious reflections about the holy nativity.
As I said, the response from the elders was terrific. I'll quote just one dear lady -- "I so love it when you guys come and the music is always great and the pictures bring back to me so many wonderful memories. And the stories you tell are so interesting. But this today was the best of all! The pictures were so beautiful and, oh, the songs! You probably heard me because I think I sang along with every single one of them! Thank you both for coming again and not forgetting us. We just love you!"
I ask you -- how could we even think of staying away when we get responses like that?
Last week Allen and Cindy Nelson joined us for one of the presentations. That was their second time in coming along to visit and make friends. And, believe me, they're great at it! We were so thrilled to have them. And the invitation is always open for others too. We still have several presentations coming up here in December so, if you'd like to come along, just give us a call. It's an especially opportune ministry for retired folks, stay at home Moms and home-school kids.
And for those of you interested in the various song lists we develop for each month (no small task), here's the ones that made the Christmas edition of "When Swing Was King:"
Glenn Miller Orchestra: "In the Christmas Mood"Tommy Dorsey Orchestra: "March of the Toys"
Duke Ellington Orchestra: "Jingle Bells"
Frank Sinatra: a 1947 recording of "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem"
Perry Como: "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen"
Vaughn Monroe: "Let It Snow"
Guy Lombardo Orchestra: "O, Come All Ye Faithful"
Benny Goodman Orchestra (with Peggy Lee & Art Lund): "Winter Weather"
Woody Herman Orchestra: "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town"
The Mills Brothers: "O, Holy Night"
Judy Garland: "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"
Glenn Miller Orchestra: "Silent Night"
Bing Crosby: "White Christmas"
