Good morning from Dasher and Dancer!
My Top 5 Favorite Christmas Songs
- Baby It’s Cold Outside
- Silver Bells
- All I Want For Christmas Is You (both Mariah and Vince Vance versions – different songs)
- Anything with Pachelbel’s’ Canon, particularly the Vienna Boys Choir’s Christmas Canon
- O Holy Night
[I have a million others I love too…]
5 Christmas Songs I HATE That Have Been black-balled from my Pandora stations
- “Merry Christmas Darling” by the Carpenters
- “The Little Drummer Boy”
- Anything James Taylor (sorry James, love you but you can’t do Christmas)
- Anything Charlie Brown, particularly “Christmastime Is Here”
- “Last Christmas” – ugh.
Fabulous bowl of pumpkiny oats with an island made of almond butter on top. Can’t get enough of the texture of this stuff! It’s perfect for oat topping. Slightly drippy but thick enough for sticky. Perfecto!
The Mix
- 1/3 cup oats
- 1 tbsp 10 grain hot cereal
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 banana
- Pinch salt
- Chopped dried fig
- 1/4 cup pumpkin, stirred in at end
- Cinnamon, all spice, vanilla
- Pumpkin spice almond butter island
- ~1 heaping tbsp chippy trail mix from the bulk bins
- Coconut for decoration
^^ That’s quite the list!! But it was quite the bowl ; )
I had to put a tbsp of heavy cream in my coffee because all we have in almond milk (shelf stable version for when we run out of organic milk) and I was not about to risk curdled almond milk in my beautiful coffee!
Tomorrow we are going to BOSTON to visit Larbs + Matt! I am determined to pack like a business professional in a neat and tidy way without electronics falling out of my bag. Wish me luck!
[Any Bostonians interested in getting together, we’re planning a coffee date for Sunday night at 8PM in the Back Bay. Will announce location closer to the time.]
What are your Christmas favorites and least favorites?
Jessica @ How Sweet It Is says
Baby It’s Cold Outside is one of my favorites too. I am an old granny and listen to Barry Manilow, Kenny Loggins, Amy Grant… and even thought I hated N*SYNC, I’m obsessed with their Christmas CD.
And since I am a die hard James Taylor fan, I have to admit that a few years ago when his Christmas album came out, I didn’t love it either. But now it has grown on me and I really like it.
Natalia - a side of simple says
Amy Grant + N*SYNC = the perfect start to my Christmas soundtrack, too, Jessica!
And obviously, the * is completely necessary 😉
Meg says
I love Last Christmas by Jimmy Eat World, and I love your list too 😀
Liz says
Yesssssssss, what a great cover. 🙂
Stacy @ Every Little Thing says
I can’t stand that song about Christmas shoes. CAN.NOT.STAND.
I am not huge on Christmas music in general. I like your top 5 though. I really enjoy “Christmas Song” by Dave Matthews Band. I tend to like non-traditional Christmas music.
Beth @ Beth's Journey to Thin says
I love Christmas songs! Lately I’ve been into singing basic ones like Jingle Bells and Santa Claus is coming to Town because my niece just turned 3 and loves to sing!
Anna @ Newlywed, Newly Veg says
I can’t believe you hate Little Drummer Boy!!!! And I actually love Last Christmas….and Charlie Brown. I guess we’re Christmas Carol opposites 🙂
RhodeyGirl says
I just wrote a similar comment! I LOVE Little Drummer Boy (But I hate Last Christmas, sorry haha)
Jodi says
I was thinking the same thing about the Little Drummer Boy! I love Jessica Simpson’s version, but maybe that’s just me 😉
I need to download some new Christmas songs and these responses are great!
Stacy R. says
Ha, I am not ashamed to admit that I love Jessica Simpson’s version of Little Drummer Boy!
amy says
David Bowie and Bing Crosby do a version of Little Drummer Boy that is pretty great!
Eileen says
The best!
Estela @ Weekly Bite says
Baby it cold outside is my favorite!!!
When I saw your oats I first thought there was a gingerbread cookie on top… but it was your nut butter 🙂
Lauren says
I love Mariah Carey’s Christmas music, and Baby It’s Cold Outside. Pandora’s Rockin Holiday Station is my favorite lately.
Kori says
I love Bing Crosby, Mannheim Steamroller, The Little Drummer Boy, and Charlie Brown. 🙂 Your oats look delicious!
Carrie @ TV and Dinners says
I love Last Christmas! It’s actually one of the only Christmas songs I truly love. Wham 4-eva.
I also love all of Sufjan Stevens Christmas music. If you haven’t heard it, you should check it out — non-traditional, gorgeous and interesting.
laura says
yep, sufjan’s christmas is the best!
L says
Totally and completely agree with you on the Charlie Brown “Christmastime is Here” song…it just sounds so weird and breathy to me! And don’t even get me started on Neil Diamond Christmas 🙂
Kath says
“Breathy” – YES!
Rachel says
I’m not quite sure how you can dislike Vince Guaraldi and his Charlie Brown Christmas music. It’s the only Christmas music I can stand!
Angie @ Musings of a Violet Monkey says
With you on the James Taylor Christmas music…
I grew up listening to James, and he has a special place in my heart.
But.
His Christmas CD (which I just purchased a few weeks ago), is depressing! Why?!?!
The Glee Christmas album is pretty good. Loved Kurt’s “Baby It’s Cold Outside” version last night!
~
marie says
I really like the Trans Siberian Orchestra
Samantha @ Bikini Birthday says
Christmastime Is Here is the most annoying song in the world.
Last Christmas is amazing! I freaking love that song!
I’m not super religious, but all my favourite Christmas songs are the Hymns:
Oh Holy Night, Silent Night, Angels We Have Heard on High,…
Who’s with me? Aren’t the religious songs the best?
Canadian says
Yes. That’s because they’re aren’t cheesy and cutesy; they’re classic and beautiful. They sound great sung by choirs rather than pop stars.
Jennie says
Those are my favorites too!
Gabriella @ Embracement says
If I hear Christmas Shoes one more time……ugh, way to depressing for Christmas time! I really love the classics and classical versions, and pretty much all of it (afterall I’ve been listening since Nov 1), but Christmas Shoes is a mood killer.
Transplanted Texan says
I have to agree that lisening to “Christmas Shoes” is depressing but having personally experienced the “been there done that” part about having no money to buy my children or myself shoes much less food, as well as my Mom die of cancer (and YES unfortunately right before Christmas, altho i was 20, not a little kid,but my brother was only 14). So even tho things are different now I have to listen to that song and after saving up enough money thru the year to pay for the cost of a NICE Christmas dinner and TWO pairs of children’s shoes and TWO sets of kids clothes for a family i donate it with the explanation of my hopes for it but tell them I know that they have to use it as they know they have to for a family in the USA. Like my mother used to say to me, even AFTER you get where you were trying to go in life— NEVER forget where you came from and give REALISTICALLY to your favorite charity whom you are certain has an HONEST HISTORY. This is extremely importat to know who you are giving to and DON’T assume they are all GOOD because a LOT of poeple NEVER see a DIME of what is given by people or maybe just about that to a charity much! Don’t even think about throwing in just 5 bucks when you go out and spend HUNDREDS on Christmas. Think about being on the other side of where that money goes and dont EVER forget– it could just as easily be YOU with the empty fridge and NO shoes for your children on Christmas. If we all thought that way when we have our house, clothing on our chidren and food in our refrigerators, this world would be a MUCH better place for everyone!
Alaina says
My favorite is O Holy Night sung my Josh Groban. And any version of Do You Hear What I Hear?
I’d love to get together on Sunday in the Back Bay! I’ll send you an e-mail! katheats at gmail??
Liz says
OMG, I hateeeeeeeeeeeee “Christmastime is Here”. HATE. But “Last Christmas”???? LOVE IT. How can you hate it? IT’S GEORGE MICHAEL/WHAM!
I don’t know how you feel about punk songs, but man, I love “Fairytale of New York”, originally by the Pogues, but covered by several bands, but my favorite is No Use For A Name’s cover.
Angie @ Musings of a Violet Monkey says
I looooove “Fairytale of New York” (Pogues version is the best for me) !!! 🙂
Marieke says
Fairytale of New York is one of the best Christmas songs in my opinion.
Kate (What Kate is Cooking) says
I love Vince Vance’s version of All I Want For Christmas! My all time favorite is Peace on Earth by David Bowie and Bing Crosby 🙂
Kath says
I used to be OBsessed with that song!
Kath says
Christmas Shoes does suck
j says
how can you hate Last Christmas? omg, I love it. I even love the extended version more! and Merry Christmas Darling always makes me think of being in a cabin in the mountains with hot cider or cocoa. love it too!
I do have to agree that I hate Charlie Brown Christmas music.
Jenn @ LiveWellFitNow says
Hey lady! Bostonian here…have no idea if I’m going to be back in town Sun night but would love a get together if I am.
Favorite tunes myself are all Manheim Steamroller. My mom was obsessed when we grow up therefore I have now taken on said obsession.
Otherwise Nat King Cole “The Christmas Song” is my fav.
Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat says
Sounds like a fun trip! I’d love to visit Boston because I’ve seen so many photos and it’s gorgeous! My favourite Christmas song is All I Want For Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey, as well as her version of Santa Claus is coming to Town. Listening to them now! 🙂
Rebecca says
I’m a Bostonian but I’m in NYC for school, so I won’t be there! 🙁 If you come to NYC, however, post about it and I’d love to meet up!
Heather (Heather's Dish) says
i LOVE ‘baby it’s cold outside’!!! can you believe i’d never heard it til ELF? now i adore it 🙂
amanda says
I love it too, so much that by boyfriend and I recorded our own version! haha
Sarena (The Non-Dairy Queen) says
I love Oh Holy Night and Ave Maria (by Harry Connick Jr.) and HATE Baby It’s Cold Outside by Jessica Simpson and Nick Lache.
Today is a perfect day for pumpkin oats and I just enjoyed my massive bowl with a cup of coffee! It is so cold, I think it is time for a cup of hot tea!
Matt says
Based on the wailing coming from upstairs, I’d like to register my hatred of “All I Want For Christmas is You”
And I DO like Charlie Brown!
Kath says
HEY!!!
Mom says
Go Kanz. I love Charlie Brown. It was a big deal in 1965 or so when the Christmas special came out. It was innovative for its time.
Carly the Canadian says
I agree, Charlie brown is awesome!
Christine says
I take Matt’s side on this one. Yes Charlie Brown and NO All I Want for Christmas is You.
And I DO like James Taylor….
But the best Christmas song really is O Holy Night — EXCEPT that it takes a great voice to pull it off and it is hard to sing a long to (because you need a good voice).
amy says
Agreed! How can you hate Charlie Brown?!
emily says
Hahaha, omg this was too funny!
I actually like the Charlie Brown songs too, although I do agree with the other commenter who said it was a bit breathy.
My favorite is the Sleigh Ride song!
Jen says
I’m loving the sing-a-long Christmas music from Sesame Street. And I have to disagree, LIttle Drummer Boy by Bing Crosby is awesome!
Valerie @ City|Life|Eats says
Have fun in Boston – I went to college just a few miles from there and loved Boston in December 🙂
Dee says
Ooh, have fun in Boston!
And oh gosh – I love Last Christmas! LOL… But I love Mariah’s All I Want for Christmas is You.
My Grown Up Christmas List
Carol of the Bells
The Christmas Song
White Christmas
are just a couple of favorites too. I’m sure I can come up with more when I listen to them!
Tracey says
Faves: Carol of the Bells
Good King Wenceslas
Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella
Greensleeves
I love traditional songs!
Dislikes: the travesty that is Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas
Blue Christmas by Elvis
Any variation of I’ll be Home for Christmas
Before I was married, when my husband still lived in Scotland, we had to spend a Christmas apart. So I refuse to listen to any sad Christmas songs!
Amy K. @ onehealthypeanut says
My Favorite is Bing Crosbey “White Christmas” the movie happens to be by favorite Christmas movie too!! LOVE Bing!!
Erin D. says
Bing Crosby and White Christmas make the holiday what it is!!!
katie says
Couldn’t agree more — Bing and White Christmas are NECESSARY for a complete holiday season! But I have to add “It’s A Wonderful Life,” too. Hated it growing up because we had to watch it repeatedly because it was my mom’s favorite. Now it’s a must-see for me to be fully in the holiday spirit!
stacey-healthylife says
I love Christmas music. Between the music and Christmas movies, it’s pure bliss.
[email protected] says
Christmas music is just not my thing. And that Christmas Shoes song is killlllling meeeeeeeeeee.
Sarah @ See Sarah Graduate says
I’m kind of obsessed with the Glee Christmas album right now! Especially Kurt & Blaine’s version of “Baby It’s Cold Outside”. It’s soooooo good! 🙂 And the episode last night was fantastic!
Other than that, I’m a big fan of the rat pack Christmas songs. Anything by Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin–I’m sold.
As far as least favorites–with the exception of Glee and a few others, I don’t really like modern Christmas songs as much. There is just something about the old ones that makes it really feel like Christmas. 🙂
Tracey says
Oooh, I agree – Dean and Frank are wonderful. And really make it feel like Christmas.
Lauren at KeepItSweet says
OMG I LOVED their “Baby it’s Cold Outside”, might have been my favorite part of the show:-)
Becky says
Kath, I had a questions about your pumpkin oats. I always thought it was a great idea to put pumpkin in because I love pumpkin pie, so when I tried it, I found it to be very bitter. Maybe I just like sweet pumpkin things but I noticed you don’t use any sweetener in yours, is there a healthy way to sweeten the pumpkin so it has a more pumpkin pie flavor?
Kath says
I’d just add a little brown sugar or maple syrup. I bet with time you’ll like it plain 🙂
Casey says
Pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon, healthy amounts of both, works wonders too 🙂
Mary says
A tsp of agave nectar may help
Brittney says
Haha, I actually like Last Christmas a lot, but I know a lot of people hate it!
My absolute favorite is Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. Sarah McLachlan and Coldplay both do great versions of it.
Nicole says
I love version that David Bowie did of “Little Drummer Boy.” I abhor “Santa Baby,” anything sung by Wayne Newton (sounds like a woman!), and the majority of remakes done by current artists. My favorites are all the old-school, Rat Pack stuff. Oh, and just about anything instrumental. I used to participate in Merry Tuba Christmas, so anything with a good tuba part is AWESOME.
I used to hate holiday music when I worked in a retail store because it’s all you listen to. Nowadays I can actually enjoy it.
Kjirsten- Balanced Healthy Life says
haha, I love most of you hate songs! Especially James Taylor! Christmas and James Taylor go hand in hand (ok, I am a dork)! : )
Whitney says
I love all the songs on Mariah Carey’s Christmas cd!! 🙂
Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says
No Chalie Brown’s Vhristmas tunes?! *insert look of horror* 🙂
I love Sleigh Ride and Robert Earl Keen’s “Marry Christmas from the Family.” Keen’s is gut-splittingly hilarious.
The one I really don’t like is the Grown Up Christmas List. I have to change the station when it comes on.
Julie says
Hey, Kath!
Quick question if you have a minute. I want to make some of Matt’s bread for a party on Friday night (<—— love all of the bread recipes!). However, I have to make it today because I sadly don't have time to do the whole process before the party. I really want the bread to taste like it does when it comes out of the oven at the party. Any suggestions on keeping it fresh? I would really appreciate it!
Thanks!!
Matt says
Two days isn’t bad for storage. If you want maximum freshness, when the loaf cools you can wrap it in plastic wrap tightly, and then put it in some other closed container (ziplock, tupperware, whatever you have). Just don’t refrigerate.
Oh, and nothing makes a loaf taste better or more fresh like toasting it in the oven right before serving…
Julie says
Thanks so much! Now, I just have to decide on which bread to bake…
Oh, and keep those bread recipes a’comin!
Camille says
My favorite Christmas songs are:
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas (The Judy Garland version)
Christmas Must Be Something More (The Taylor Swift version)
Carol of the Bells
On the other hand, I can not stand:
Feliz Navidad
Annnd, there is one more, but I guess I try to block it out so badly that I can’t even remember the name 🙂
Vanessa says
I like Trans Siberian Orchestra. Agreed with the hatred for Christmas shoes, how depressing. Although “Have yourself a Merry little Christmas..” gets me all warm and fuzzy inside.
Have fun in Boston!!
Emily says
I love “Last christmas”, but only the wham version. For some reason, it’s 80’s awfulness is just fun to listen to.
I really love old christmas music. Like 40’s and 50’s stuff that my grandparents listened to.
I’d have to say though, my favorite is “happy christmas” by John Lennon. I love the rockin holiday’s station on pandora. Its been on nonstop since the day after tgiving. 🙂
Emily says
I forgot to add, and knowing this will probably get me hated, I hate Glee Christmas :0 It’s one of the only banned things on my Pandora.
hungryforbalance.wordpress.com says
I love “All I want for Christmas is You”! And making cookies 😉 I also had a yummy bowl of pumpkin oats but added in a little pinch of cardamom. I highly reccommend it
Robyn @ Frugal 'n' Fit! says
What is it about Christmas music that makes hearing the same songs over and over again so bearable?
I love “Please come home for Christmas” and I am with you on the hate on for “Little Drummer Boy”. I also despise the “Christmas shoes” song, as do so many others! The comedian Paton Oswalt has a HILARIOUS skit on youtube all about why that song is so wrong.
Paige(Running Around Normal) says
My favorite is ironically Let it Snow! Ironic, because I hate snow!
Suzanne @ Continuing My Education says
I’m going to go with Nsync, “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays”
if only they let me listen to Christmas music at work!
Lisa (Lisa at Home) says
My all time favorites include: Carol of the Bells, Oh Holy Night, Baby It’s Cold Outside, Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.. I really don’t like Last Christmas, Blue Christmas, Any Elvis Christmas songs for that matter.. haha
I absolutely love Boston! Have fun!
betty says
i use almond milk in my coffee all the time (unless i have pumpkin seed milk on tap). I found that if it’s warmed a bit (like 10 sec in the microwave) it doesn’t curdle when I add coffee to it.
kate says
I loved all your song related tweets this morning! Its definitely time to let out some tunes!
Holly @ couchpotatoathlete says
Last Christmas is one of my favorite Christmas songs!!!
I really like all Christmas music, except for Baby its cold outside.
Tina @ Faith Fitness Fun says
Baby, It’s Cold Outside tops my list too. With Charlie Brown on the bottom too.
I also love Silent Night. It always makes me feel so peaceful.
Amy at TheSceneFromMe says
I love all the songs on the SheDaisy Chritmas CD (Brand New Year). There’s a funny one called: Twist Of The Magi. I hope you can listen to it!
I also like The Kingston Trio: The Last Month Of The Year~
Kiran says
I have almond milk with my coffee regularly and it never curdles. What almond milk brand are you using? I use Almond Breeze 🙂 Happy Holidays 🙂
RhodeyGirl says
I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU WOULD PUT THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY IN THE SAME CATEGORY AS LAST CHRISTMAS!!!!
Little Drummer Boy is our FAVORITEEEEE SONGG! Barum bum bum bummmmmm DUN. DUN. dun.
Carrie H says
My daddy loves “Little Drummer Boy” too, so it will always and forever remind me of him. When it came on the other day and my husband said he hates it, I was offended, lol. 🙂
Katie (The Boston Marathoner) says
Whenever I hear Little Drummer Boy it makes me think of Angela from The Office…
Bridget says
Sarah McLachlan’s Song for a Winter’s Night is beautiful. Absolutely my favorite Christmas song… I know you’d love it. Give it a listen 🙂 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUQ4-ZuEfwE
Amy says
Agree with you on the Christmas music! I HATE Last Christmas too. That song should be banned from the radio. LOVE Oh Holy Night (especially the Josh Groban version – gives me chills), and Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas. I could listen to that song 365 days a year. Silent Night is also a winner in my book. And my guilty pleasure is probably N*Sync’s Merry Christmas Happy Holidays. Takes me back to 8th grade.
Lauren says
Love: Anything by Harry Connick Jr., All I Want for Christmas is You (Love Actually version!!), 12 Days of Christmas by Straight No Chaser (anyone else??) and I do actually like Last Christmas.
Hate: Chrismastime is Here, Christmas Shoes, anything James Taylor (sorry Mom and Dad) and Merry Christmas Baby by Bruce!
Bronwyn Coyne says
I love Last Christmas.
Also love It’s Cold Outside, anyone see lasts night glee? Loved their version.
I also like So this is Xmas (I know it’s sad) the Sarah Mcglachlan version
Have to second the All I want for Christmas Love actually version too. 🙂
Lindsey says
I LOVEEE Charlie Brown Christmas! It reminds me of being really little and decorating the Christmas tree with my mama! You should give it another try!
amy says
I love your bowl! Where did you get those? Oh and of course, your breakfast looks amazing in that cute bowl! Favorite xmas song….? Jingle Bell Rock!
Kath says
It’s the Buddha Bowl!
http://shopopensky.com/katheats/buy/flavour-design-buddha-bowl-2-bowl-set-snowpea-pacific
Amanda says
The only version of The Little Drummer Boy that I like is by Jars of Clay… you should try listening to that!
Katherine says
I know it’s pretty ridiculous, but I love “Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses. It’s always been kind of a family joke, but it has grown on me over the years and I get excited when I hear it now.
Beth says
Best Christmas song! And Last Christmas, also. You are wrong, Kath.
Paula says
LOVE that song!! Great choice. 🙂
Cathy B. @ Bright Bakes says
I’ve been into adding a Tablespoon of 10-grain to my oats too lately…love what it does for the consistency! 🙂
love,
cathy b. @ brightbakes
Katie @ Healthy Heddleston says
Aww I love Last Christmas.. and on Glee last night it was good!!
Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine says
I looooove anything by Josh Groban. He’s one of my favorite singers in general, so him + Christmas = eargasms. Breath of Heaven is another really beautiful Christmas song- it brings tears to my eyes!
kaila says
Favorite would be- Step Into Christmas<- Elton John!
Least favorite is definitely- LITTLE DRUMMER BOY<-ughhh sooo LONG and SLOW!
Lauren says
Love: Oh Holy Night, Silent Night
Hate: Feliz Navadad
Liz @ Tip Top Shape says
I totally love all the songs on your hate-list. haha
My favorite is “The Christmas Song”, though. Nat King Cole version, of course! That song makes me tear up it is so beautiful.
Amber K says
Mary’s Boy Child and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing are my favorites. And the entire Point of Grace Christmas album is amazing.
I hate the cheesiness of I saw mommy kissing santa claus and all I want for Christmas is my two front teeth. I don’t know why, they just make my skin crawl.
[email protected] Reshape Your Life says
I’m a big fan of Kenny Loggins “December” christmas album actually. It doesn’t feel like christmas without those tunes. I also love Andy Williams “We Need a Little Christmas”… That’s one of my favorite songs, and the whole cd has most of my favorites. Must get these on iTunes. Thanks for reminding me!
ilana says
Such a cute, fun post, Kath. Love the part about packing like a biz prof. So true!
I also love All I want for Christmas and the U2’s, Baby Please Come Home.
Safe travels to Beantown.
Clare @ Fitting It All In says
Carol of the Bells is an all time favorite – to listen to and to play on piano. If you like instrumentals, Lorie Line has FANTASTIC piano arrangements!
Page says
I HATE the Charlie Brown “Christmastime is Here” song. My boyfriend torments me and sings it around the house randomly. I’m glad I’m not the only one who hates it, haha.
Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin says
I love any Christmas songs sung by Frank Sinatra or Michael Buble!
I can’t stand anything sung by Mariah Carey though.
Katie says
I love Hark the Harold Angels Sing and Angels We Heard on High (there might be another name for that…I forget). I also love Baby It’s Cold Outside. My boyfriend sang that to me when we first met and it reminds me of him now. 🙂
Katie says
Angels we have heard on high?
Katie says
and is Herald! I sound like such an idiot right now!
Alison says
Oh, I’m totally with you on Little Drummer Boy. I just don’t like it. My favorite Christmas song is O Come, O Come Emmanuel.
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey says
Yum! I almost had the exact same bowl of oats this morning – looks great!
Jessica says
I absolutely adore it’s the most wonderful time of the year!
Thanks for being SUCH an inspiration Kath! I’m a college student, and it’s SERIOUS crunch time for me with exams and what not. Healthy eating and exercise seem to have taken a backseat as I find myself super stressed all the time. But everyday I make time to check your blog, and it honestly makes all of my troubles melt away.
Thanks so much for being such a dedicated blogger – I know how hard it is to be a consistent blogger, but it’s wonderful to know that every time I come I can expect a pleasant surprise of home-y goodness!
Much Love,
Jessica
Kath says
🙂
Lily's Health Pad says
CAROL OF THE BELLS!! <—-Rocks!
sarah B says
1) Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree. Always reminds me of Home Alone. I also am not afraid to admit that I like Hannah Montana’s rendition as well.
2) Baby its Cold Outside, when sung by Dean Martin. It reminds me of making tamales with my mom, aunt and my cousins. Ahhh Dean, so suave.
3) All I Want for Christmas is You. Yes, the Mariah Carey version. I’m such a sap this time of year 🙂
Mimi says
I think my top nut butter topping for oats is actually sunflower seed butter… It’s got a little crunch, yet blends perfectly!
katie says
Sufjan Stevens’ Christmas music is great for more mellow Christmas tunes around the fire in the evening…
Katie (The Boston Marathoner) says
I just saw him live in Boston – amazing. It was like a circus going crazy on stage, but in a good way.
Danielle says
Hey.. I live in Boston and would love to meet up with you! My friend here also reads you. Let us know where you will be.
Kath says
Spread the word!
Expresso Royale, 44 Gainsborough Street
Sunday the 12th, 8PM
Katie (The Boston Marathoner) says
I agree about James… love him for everything else but the xmas tunes. I live within walking distance of Back Bay, and would love to meet up!
Katie O. says
OMG who can resist dancing like a crazy woman when they hear “All I want for Christmas” by Mariah Carey. Love it! I also feel very happy when I hear “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!” The one thing I will disagree with one is “Christmastime is Here” (Charlie Brown)…I just love it. LOL
[email protected] Grains of Paradise says
Favorite part: Winter Swells. We always seem to get epic surf out here Christmas week.
Least favorite: Kona Storms that last for a week! ( Like the one on it’s way…….)
Paula says
My husband will concur with Matt. I sing along (horribly) every time I hear Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You”. So fun! Did anyone mention “Santa Baby”? Another fun one!
Less fun, but love Trans Siberian Orchestra and Manneheim Streamroller Christmas music.
Paula says
Forgot to add that the Chrismas shoes song is the Worst. Ever.
Manissa says
Favorite: Coldplay’s “Christmas Lights” 🙂
Karen says
I’m currently enjoying the Glee holiday tunes, but my traditional favorites are the more melancholy songs on Sarah McLachlan’s Wintersong album – River, Christmas time is here…
Lara says
I’m a Bostonian and I would love to attend a meet-up! Sounds like loads of fun.
(Btw, I love your list of Chirstmas songs.)
Kath says
See my comment above!
Jenna says
I live in Boston, and I’d love to meet up! Let me know the plan! It’s freeeeeeeeezing here, so pack warm clothes!
Kath says
See above too!
Amy Pea says
Least Fave Christmas Songs:
“All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth” – the kid’s voice whistles and it’s like nails on a chalkboard!
“Santa Baby” by Madonna – so annoying
“Baby It’s Cold Outside” by Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey – ewwwww
Fave Christmas Songs:
Surprised no one has yet mentioned “Do They Know It’s Christmas” by Band Aid…the bells at the beginning always bring back memories (as a child of the 80s).
“Celebrate Me Home” – Kenny Loggins…love this.
“Jingle Bell Rock” – Hall and Oates
And agree with the above’s comment of Coldplay’s version of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
Canadian says
Ha ha, I hate most of the songs you love, especially “Baby it’s cold outside” which sounds an awful lot like date rape. Can’t stand “Silver Bells” either, because it’s SO overplayed.
On the list of Christmas songs I love:
– “Once in Royal David’s City” — if you like boys choirs look for a good recording of this. Traditionally the first verse is sung unaccompanied by a boy soloist. Beautiful, beautiful.
– The Messiah, all of it but especially “For Unto Us a Child is Born”
– “The Huron Carol” — a.k.a. “Twas in the Moon of Wintertime”, a Canadian classic from the 17th century!
– and of course… “Silent Night”: the best Christmas song ever written.
Kimberly @ Servantless American Cook says
I love john lennon’s “Happy Christmas (War is over)” 🙂
Kaitlin says
Oh man, I love Charlie Brown! This year I also checked out “Christmastime in New Orleans” from the local library and I love the jazzy versions of my favorite classics. 🙂
Lisa (bakebikeblog) says
I dont thinkk I could pick just one!!!!
LizW says
“Last Christmas” is THE WORST!!! “O Holy Night” is my fav 🙂
[email protected] says
Boston rocks ! Have fun.
Anne W Falk says
I totally agree with you on “Last Christmas”. That is a terrible song! Just listen to the lyrics. A fella gets his girl, girl breaks his heart, this Christmas he shows her he can do better, ha. Just terrible.
I have to disagree with you on the Charlie Brown though. After hearing a lot of the sometimes pounding rock and roll varieties I find it quite relaxing to put on some CB.
Tricia @ Saving room for dessert says
I cannot stand to hear “Santa Baby” It makes me want to scream. I could listen to Sleigh Ride mulitple times each day during the month of December before I got tired of it.
Melissa says
Oh man, I might have to delete your blog from my blog list . . . Wham!’s “Last Christmas” is the BEST Christmas song EVER!
Kristen says
Do you really think almond milk will spoil your coffee? What do you use your almond milk for?
Kath says
I keep a shelf-stable box on hand for when we run out of milk and are going out of town (or coming back from a trip) to use in oats and things.
It if curdled, it would spoil. I’ve too many non-cow milks curdle on me to risk my delicious coffee.
Andy says
I love almost all Christmas music – traditional & non-traditional! The only one I can’t stand is a version of Angels We Have Heard on High by some guy on a Glory and Praise album – yuck! I LOVE JT, Sarah Maclachlan, Dave Mathews, Bing, Dean, Band Aid, Waitresses, I could go on and on…..
Kristina says
Definitely love Charlie Brown!
I also like some traditional songs like “Angels we have heard on high”.
Probably the saddest song of all is “I’ll be home for Christmas”, especially considering the history behind it. I still like it, but it always makes me want to cry.
We also have Xavier Cugat’s Christmas music – very fun, totally lounge-y.
Sara R. says
Ha! I am quite vocal about Christmas songs that I hate…especially since they seem to be the ones that are played all.the.time.
-Christmas Shoes is probably my least favorite. So pandering!
-Wonderful Christmas Time by Paul McCartney. I love me some Beatles, but this song blows.
-Do They Know it’s Christmas! The tune is ok, but the lyrics kill it for me. Allow me to complain about this song line by line.
There won’t be snow in Africa this Christmas (That’s a good thing…I think that would cause many people to freeze to death)
The greatest gift they’ll get this year is life (I’d argue that the greatest gift ANY of us get in any year is life)
Where nothing ever grows (Dude, the Congo is in Africa…quite a few things grow in the jungle)
No rain or rivers flow (I guess the longest river in the world doesn’t count)
Do they know it’s Christmastime at all?
I like the more old-fashioned songs like O Holy Night, Do You Hear What I Hear, The First Noel etc., but I do like All I Want for Christmas is You because I LOVE the movie Love, Actually!
Tracey says
This made me laugh! I think all your complaints are valid. 🙂
Sana says
I loveeee the blue color of your bowl. SOO beautiful!
Caroline says
How can you not love Bing Crosby and David Bowie’s version of “The Little Drummer Boy?” They sound so great together, and the juxtaposition of their completely different styles and generations is so great – what Christmas is all about, really – putting our differences aside.
allyson says
My husband calls me a scrooge, (as a HS and college swimmer, Christmas break meant double the amount in the pool, some rough memories!), I hate Christmas music. We have a station here that plays Christmas music 24/7 and he’s been listening to it since Thanksgiving. The only songs i can bear to listen to is Santa Claus is coming to Town (Bruce’s version) and Feliz Navidad.
Heidi - apples under my bed says
Pretty porridge 🙂 I love All I want for Christmas!! White Christmas too – despite living in Australia haha. You can’t beat Bing 🙂
Heidi xo
Mary says
Most hated Christmas song – “Santa Baby” – all versions
Most fun – -“I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas”
Best classic – “O Holy Night”
Melissa @ I Never Imagined says
Hehe I only know a handful of Christmas songs- or so I thought until I read these comments! I definitely know the Mariah one and belt it out every time I hear it (belt it out silently, inside my head, that is. I am NOT a good singer.)
Grace says
We definitely share a lot of the favorites and un-favorites! ‘Baby It’s Cold Outside’ isn’t one of my absolute favorites per se, but it’s definitely the only song on GLEE this week that I could stand. (Ugh, why did they pick so many horrid Christmas songs?? I HATE that Carpenters Christmas song!)
Stevie Wonder’s “Someday at Christmas” is my favorite. That song makes me tear up every time. “O Holy Night” is my classic favorite and “Feliz Navidad” is my favorite fun Christmas song. 🙂
Kathi says
This year I love “Still, Still, Still”, the version by Mannheim Steamroller. Can’t get enough!! I first heard it on Pandora Holiday.
Hannah says
I’ve just discovered “Santa Baby” and love it! I also love “Aussie Jingle Bells” 😉
Sara @ myfancytuna.blogspot.com says
I love The First Noel, Little Saint Nick, and the John Lennon/Yoko Ono Christmas song…I can’t remember the name exactly. I HATE The Little Drummer Boy, Do You Hear What I Hear, anything by Elvis, and songs in the thread of Christmas Shoes.
Jennifer says
People may cringe when I write this but I LOVE Boney M Christmas songs. Something about their happy tunes get me excited for Christmas. I think it is a nostalgic thing for me as my mother always put that tape on since we were young. Bing Crosby is another favorite. I have to agree with others on the little drummer boy. One of my favorite Christmas tunes. 🙂
Monique Gagnon says
hi Kath! I’ve read your blog for a longggg time, but have never commented:( I even read your sisters blog, especially because I live in Boston, too, so I love learning about new restaurants and different places to go. I secretly hope I bump into you while you’re in town, haha is that weird?! Hope you enjoy your time here; the city is absolutely BEAUTIFUL right now!! Bring LOTS of warm clothes, though… my car temp read 17* this morning… brrrr!
Kath says
Hey monique,
We’re planning a meet up at Expresso Royale, 44 Gainsborough Street, at 8PM on Sunday if you’d like to join!
Monique Gagnon says
oohhh fun!! I’m going to try my best to make it; I’d love to meet you, your sister, and everyone else! thanks for the info:)
Kristin says
How did “Feliz Navidad” not make the hate list? I HAAAAAAAAAAAAAATE that song!!!
I recently discovered Relient K’s Christmas album via Pandora and love it — I might actually have to buy that one.
Theodora @ Losing Weight in the City says
Christmas in Washington and the song about the Christmas shoes are both particularly cringe-worthy.
Marika says
Does anyone else like the song about Snoopy and the Red Baron on Christmas Eve? Always loved that for some reason! Also like the Christmas carol “Once in Royal David’s City”, and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” makes me all sappy because I live really far away from my family and can’t go home for Christmas.
Charise says
Baby it’s cold outside is also my very favorite Christmas-time song, and Josh Groban doing O Holy Night – shivers! I also happen to love all sorts of covers of Last Christmas (Jimmy Eat World, Taylor Swift, now Glee ;)), so I am sad to see that on your black-balled list. 🙁
Megan says
When you find a place let us know. I would love to be a part of you Bostonian reader meet-up.