Stay Tuned - The Afro Blue Edition

Here's one of my favorite renditions of Christmas Time is Here. It's by my favorite group from Season 3 of The Sing-Off, Afro Blue. It's jazzy and soulful,and the best part -it's a capella! Put in your earphones for this one; you definitely don't want to miss the awesome bassist, Reggie.

What did you think? Be sure to tell me your favorites songs of the season in the comments.

Love and (a book) light,

~Dorothy

Christmas Gift Guide: Books by Interest

 There are always those few people that you don't quite know how to shop for. Here are some book recommendations that you can wrap for them.

For the WWII History Buff: Ghost Soldiers by Hampton Sides

This book tells of the rescue of American POWs imprisoned by the Japanese on Filipino soil. Any history buff would enjoy the in-depth look at the most successful prison raid in history.

For the Animal Lover: In the Shadow of Man by Jane Goodall

Treat the animal lover in your life to this wonderful account of Jane Goodall's journey in Gombe as she observes these wonderful creatures. Everyone will fall in love with the chimps in this book as they read about their life in the jungle.

For the Gamer: Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card

This is the one book that I can see a gamer putting down the controller for. This futuristic novel combines the excitement, action, and innovative technology of video games with the philosophy and rhetoric of good literature.

For the Grimm Lover: Fables by Bill Willingham

If someone you love is hooked on the new TV show Grimm like I am, they'll definitely enjoy this graphic novel series. It features characters from the fairy tales we know and love, and follows them in their modern day life in New York City.

For the Fashionista: Style by Lauren Conrad

Lauren Conrad's book offers different tips and tricks of the trade. There's sure to be something for every fashionista, whether it's hair secrets or makeup trends.

For the War Veteran: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

Unbroken tells the uplifting story of a World War II survivor that is sure to resonate with thousands of those who have witnessed the horrors of war.

For the Athlete: Born to Run by Christopher McDougall

This book explores the secrets of a tribe of superathletes, and will inspire and challenge the athlete in your life.

For the Science Geek: Genome by Matt Ridley

Any science geek, physicists, engineers, and biologists alike, will enjoy reading about the great strides humanity has made to map out its own genome and what they've found in the process.

For the Career Woman (or Man!): How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

This classic is a must read for every career person looking to stand out and be successful in their industry.

Hope that helped you cross off some things on your Christmas list!

Love and (a book) light,

~Dorothy

Meet the Ornaments

One of the most frustrating things about decorating a Christmas tree is that no photo can do it justice. While I'm constantly fidgeting and experimenting with my camera to capture the perfect shot, I do want to share our tree with you. Our tree is covered with Hallmark ornaments from head to toe (courtesy of my mother-in-law who LOVES Hallmark), so they're better appreciated up close. I decided I would introduce the ornaments to you one by one.

All of these ornaments are adorable, but this one deserves a couple more "www"s in a prolonged "awwwwwww."

1997 Winnie the Pooh Hallmark Ornament

Well? "Awwww"-worthy, yes?

Share some of your ornaments in the comments!

Love and ( a book) light,

~Dorothy