Music Mondays: O'Jays - I Can Hardly Wait 'Til Christmas

My grandparents raised me from the moment I left the hospital; they are who I call mom and dad. My biological mother's parents stepped up to the plate and I am forever grateful for them. Being a sensitive child, as teen I shut down and closed off my heart to most, specifically my mother. When my biological mother made a rare visit home I would go to my room and shut the door, the only way we would bound is through music. One day I played O'Jays "I Can Hardly Wait 'Til Christmas" video in my room. Once my mom heard it through my bedroom door, she knocked and asked would I play it again. I must have played the song a million times that day.

That is why music is such an important part of my life because it helps comfort me at a time when I feel alone. This is the song my mother and I share as our favorite and I want to share it with you this Christmas Eve. Remember the excitement of opening gifts and playing with your new toys? Staying up late from excitement of the next day? As an adult I still can't wait 'til Christmas to honor the birth of Christ and share love with family and friends. I hope you enjoy one of my favorite Christmas songs ever "I Can Hardly Wait 'Til Christmas".

Music Mondays: Fred Hammond & RFC - You Are the Living Word

"Jesus Jesus, that's what we call you, manger born, put on a tree,you died to save humanity"

No words can express my love and gratitude for the life of my savior, Jesus Christ. Born in a manger, sent to save you and me. At a difficult time like it is now in the wake of the Newton CT shooting, I seek hope through my Lord and savior. While it is difficult to celebrate Christmas when you think about parents who lost their little precious babies this past Friday. As I cried and cried trying to make sense out of what happened, nothing made sense. As a teacher I easily put myself in the position of the teachers who faced death on Friday. My heart goes out to them as I send a prayer and make a vow to live a peaceful and loving life in their honor. That is what Christmas is all about to me, it is about love, peace, joy in a world full of darkness. Join me in listening to one of my favorite gospel songs "You Are the Living Word" by Fred Hammond.

Music Mondays: Mary Mary - "Carol of the Bells"

Getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season where we are concerned with getting the tree, buying gifts and preparing to travel; we have to stop and remember the reason for this joyous season. The reason for Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The beautiful harmonies of Mary Mary on "Carol of The Bells" does just that! Gospel group Mary Mary adds a soulful melody to this famous Christmas song. Personally one of my favorites on their Christmas album. Add this great Holiday CD to your collection and enjoy with family this Christmas season.

Music Mondays: Ledisi - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

First of all if you have not heard Ledisi's Christmas album you are missing a treat. On Ledisi's "It's Christmas" album she sings some original Holiday songs and also she sings some Holiday favorites. One of the favorites she sings is "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" in which Ledisi brings her rich vocals to the track. As soon as the song begins Ledisi starts off with blended, perfect harmonies giving the timeless classic her personal twist. To help you get in the Holiday spirit, here is Ledisi "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".