Advent Activities: Bonus Track

One of our activities, though not one we've selected yet, is carol singing by telephone to family and friends. Turns out, the kids are really excited about this one and have been practicing nightly. Right before bedtime, with the tree lit, we sing Christmas carols. Mama plays at the piano, I lead the singing, and the kids dance around with a selection of instruments. Sis prefers songs that mention Baby Jesus, as her enthrallment to him continues unabated (though, so she understands, we've been talking about our brand of Unitarian vs. Christianity, in the sense of all babies are special vs. Jesus was divine, humanity not needing salvation vs. Christ as savior, the inherent worth and dignity of people vs. Original Sin). Bud likes things with a beat. So they both like "Little Drummer Boy." I like soaring hymns ("O Holy Night" and "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear," a UU carol) and catchy tunes ("Winter Wonderland"), singing them both in what I call my campfire singing. Mama is trying to fancy up her piano playing by adding flourishes. We're not the von Trapps, or even the Brady Bunch, but it's fun. And we'll be ready for those caroling calls later this month.