It's that time of year again

Greetings and the warmest of holiday wishes to all of you!

I've finally gotten into the Christmas spirit despite the great lack of snow in my Mid-Western home state. The tree is up and decorated, and it seems some presents have sprouted 'neath it.

I went to great lengths to find black and purple garland and ornaments as well as purple lights.

I also went through great lengths to find black and purple wrapping paper and bags-- why stop the color scheme with the tree??

Everyone gets festive in my home-- OR ELSE!

Also, for the first time ever, I've sent out a bit over a dozen of Christmas cards to my online friends who have shown me so much love and support over the years. It feels good to be able to do something to show my appreciation.

I also customized my stockings with ribbon, charms, and iron-on patches. I also had some help from Mr. Lit Incense Stick in making holes in the fabric.

I also re-purposed an old wind chime and made new ornaments- it gives the tree a very mystical, magical feel and pays homage to the pagan roots of the holiday season. It seems that I did much more crafting this year than I ever have in the past.

I've also developed a new appreciation for classic Christmas music thanks to AOL Radio's "Christmas Oldies" station. Nothing beat's good ol' Johnny Cash's "Hark the Herald Angels Sing"- for that matter, I've yet to meet a goth who doesn't have a special place in their heart for the original "Man in Black."  These old songs put me in a happy mood, but at the same time, it makes me sad that  no one croons or swings anymore. Society, what happened???

Back in the days when "Class" outweighed "SWAG"

However, all hope is not lost when it comes to modern music. I'm quite thrilled to say that I was able to see one of my all-time favorite bands perform for the second year in a row last time. I had the time of my life at the almost spiritual experience. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is nearly flawless and every year they put on a spectacular show-- I already can't wait for next year's show.

 

We were about 20 rows from the stage, but it was still spectacular on the floor level. 

I've no idea why, but I've been feeling particularly festive this year. Perhaps because it could be our last (but probably not) or perhaps this is just the one time of year we can forget about our day to day problems, our petty quarrels and grudges, and our over-all adult stresses, even if just for a few days. Despite your personal religious preferences, or your holiday of choice, there is no denying that there's something very ethereal and holy about this time of year, something that brings out the kinder side of folks and pushes us to strive for peace on earth, and good will towards our fellow men, women, and children, despite our different colors or creeds, opinions or pay brackets, or even the clothes in which we choose to adorn ourselves. 

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas my friends- may you all be very blessed this season.

Love, hugs, 'n plenty of glasses of holiday cheer,
Sea, the Gothic Optician, A.B.O.C.