Warmth in Winter

Fall is by far my favorite time of the year. There is something magical to me in the vibrant red, green and yellow leaves on the trees and the browning leaves falling to the ground. It's as if if Heaven is saying to me, "Look, see the beauty all around you!". Add in the brisk breeze, rumbling clouds, pumpkin spice anything (my new found passion), smells of apple cinnamon candles - I think in the Fall, Heaven is here on Earth.

Part of the joy of Fall is the excitement and anticipation of the Holidays on the horizon. Thanksgiving and Christmas festivities are trickling onto calendars, the stores are brimming with seasonal decor, and you start to hear a carol play. Christmas music is listed in the top ten of my most favorite things! The saddest day of the year for me is the day after Christmas. The carols stop, the decor is put away and the joy of anticipation disappears. I love the weeks leading up to Christmas! So yes, I do start listening to Christmas music right after Halloween. I want to savor the feelings of Christmas for as long as possible ... I start early, knowing that all too soon it will December 26th and the radio will return to playing the Billboard top 40. 

I've mentioned it time and time again, but I'm going to remind you once more. Jim Brickman is the King of Piano. My favorite musician is Jim Brickman and his Christmas albums are among some of my all-time favorites. Last Friday, my friend Tammie and I  (along with her niece) drove from Sacramento to Grass Valley, about an hour away, in the dark and rain. We had fourth row seats in the tiniest of venues! Other than the woman behind us singing along and tapping her foot, it was a perfect experience! Jim played a selection of Christmas carols/hymns that was magical ... gave me chills and touched my soul. 

Performing with Jim Brickman on this tour was Luke McMaster. I hadn't heard of him before, but he has a current single out with Jim called "Good Morning, Beautiful". Luke performed that song, along with the spin-off "Merry Christmas, Beautiful" and two of his own pieces. I was blown away by his talent! His voice and guitar talent perfectly vibed with Jim's talent on the ivory keys. I highly recommend they compose more music together. 

It was a perfect Fall evening, a prelude to the joy of Christmas nearing. I think I'll keep that night's concert memory close to my heart. 

Jim Brickman is always so patient as he mingles with his fans. Thanks, Jim, for taking the time to say hi!

Luke McMaster signed autographs and posed for photos. Incredibly talented and kind guy. Keep Tweeting me, Luke!