"Home for the Holidays" has always been one of my favorite Christmas songs. Maybe it's because my mom enjoyed Perry Como music, and I remember hearing my brother play the song on our piano at home when I was growing up. I also remember my dad actually singing the song on family car trips (along with "Chattanooga Choo-Choo"...but that's another story).
As I got older, the song took on more meaning. As I packed up at college after exams and prepared for the 6-hour drive home, I often found myself humming the song. I think the song also began to mean more for me as I grew old enough to appreciate American soldiers all over the world who couldn't get "Home for the Holidays."
Today the song has a special meaning as our family re-groups at Christmas time. Our son is home from college, and our busy high school daughter has slowed down enough that we are able to spend some real time together. Of course, everyone rushes around like crazy these last few days before Christmas, but then starting with Christmas Eve night and through the day on Christmas, we stop and find time to just enjoy our home and each other.
Here's hoping that you find everyone "Home for the Holidays." If you're unable to be together, may memories of Christmas past and dreams of Christmas future brighten your home.
Merry Christmas from the Coopers.
Watch a Christmas slideshow and listen to the music here.
