Ready for Christmas? I am. When you are ready, we will be here with lots of episodes. New episodes begin Thanksgiving. If you have any topic ideas or music, let me know at MyChristmasStocking.NET (where you can automatically call us)!  Or find us on Twitter @XmasStocking or Facebook. Or you can Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Music:

“Snowfall” by Bill Cunliffe, Clay Jenkins, Larry Koonse, Joe La Barbera, Tom Warrington from “Snowfall” (Jazz Compass)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
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More On This Album

Lose yourself in the Christmas season with lots of music, information and advice, all with a summer feel, somehow! You’ll find more at MyChristmasStocking.net and Twitter.com/XmasStocking.  Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.   And join us on Facebook. **New phone number coming in the fall.

Featured music:

“Yule Swing” by Anna Wilson from “Yule Swing!”
(Transfer Records, LLC)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Carol of the Bells” by Darby O’Gill (from Soundclick.com)

“Santa Baby” by The Swingle Singers from “Unwrapped”
(The Sound Corporation)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Joy To The World” by Prague Chamber Choir, Philharmonic Wind Orchestra from “Greatest Christmas Carols”
(Marcophon)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Go, Santa Go!” by Howell – Freundlich Overdrive from “Christmas Fervor”
(Fervor Records)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Nutcracker March” by Pittsburgh Symphony Brass from “A Song of Christmas”
(Four Winds Entertainment, Inc.)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Sno” by Tonic Sol-Fa from “Sugarüe”
More at the Tonic Sol-Fa store

Background music:

“Deck the Halls” by Brian Bunker (from GarageBand.com)

“Surf’s Up, Emmanuel” by Brian Bunker (from GarageBand.com)

“Sleigh Ride” by Jeffrey Scot Wills from “A Central Standard Christmas”
(IMI)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

“Let It Snow” by In Due Season from “In Due Season EP”
(gMusic)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

For more information:

Twitter.com/XmasStocking has all the links. Like Disney’s “A Christmas Carol” train tour, hot toys this year, the personalized Rubik’s Cube, ways to save for the holiday, and more.

Summer is fun and all, but even summer can get to be a bit much at some point. That’s when it’s nice to think about when the weather cools off and everyone has a smile on their face for a different reason. A new Christmas Stocking Summer Music Spectacular is coming soon! If you have any ideas for it, email me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET or tweet me at Twitter.com/XmasStocking. And join us on Facebook! Talk to you soon.

Background music:

“Boys Of Summer” by Codeseven from “A Sense Of Coalition”
(The Music Cartel)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

“Frosty the Snowman” by Jeffrey Scot Wills from “A Central Standard Christmas”
(IMI)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

We conclude our initial tour of continents with a look at Christmas in Europe. Also, another listener tradition! More at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET. Follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking. And join us on Facebook. **New phone number coming in the fall.

Featured music:

“Silent Night” by Justin Faulknor

Background music:

“O Little Town of Bethlehem” by Eden Symphony Orchestra from “A Symphony of Christmas Joy”
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

“Oh Holy Night” by Chris Goddard from “An Acoustic Christmas with Chris Goddard”
(Milomix Productions)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

More information:

You’ll find links about Christmas in  eastern and central Europe, Italy, Germany, France, Greece, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Denmark and Spain.

By listener suggestion from Twitter, we look at the history of the Salvation Army. More at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.  Follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking. And join us on Facebook. **New phone number coming this  fall.

Featured music:

“Christ Was Born on Christmas Day” by Chichester Cathedral Choir from “Choral Christmas – Seasonal Favorites Performed By Cathedral Choir”
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

Background music:

“Lulee’s Dance / Joy to the World / We Wish You a Merry Christmas” by Tommy Harden from “Celtic Carols”
(IMI)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

“Oh, Little Town of Bethlehem” by Kevin McLeod (from Incompetech)

More information:

The Salvation Army USA has a website with a lot of information, including history and ways to give.

Once again, Wikipedia has lots of info.

A lot happened in the first half of the 20th century, and we look at how Christmas was affected. More at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.   Follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking. And join us on Facebook. **New phone number coming in the fall.

Featured music:

“Jingle Bells” by Joe Williams from “Christmas Remixed 2″
(Rock River Music)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

Background music:

“Santa Claus is Coming to Town” by Jeffrey Scot Wills from “A Central Standard Christmas”
(IMI)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

“Noel Nouvelet/Patapan Medley” by Sarah Whitely (from MacJams.com)

More information:

The Antique Christmas Lights Museum goes deep into the history of electric Christmas lights.

History.com has details on the Christmas Truce of 1914.

Wikipedia has a list of Christmas hit singles.

2008 was the 25th anniversary of the movie A Christmas Story and we celebrate with some behind the scenes info. More at MyChristmasStocking.net. Also a couple of traditions from Christmas Stocking listeners who emailed TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.   Follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking. And join us on Facebook, too.

Featured music:

“Sno” by Tonic Sol-Fa from “Sugarüe”
More from the Tonic Sol-Fa store

Background music:

“Deck the Halls” by Kevin McLeod (from Incompetech)

“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” by David Shelley from “Christmas Sax – Seasonal Favorites With Smooth Jazz”
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

More information:

Blu-ray.com tells you where you can get the disc online.

You can visit Ralphie’s house! They’ve had over 100,000 visitors.

IMDB is full of information about this movie and its sequel.

Of course, Wikipedia has lots.

Summertime, and Christmas is easy…in Australia. Well, maybe not easy, but definitely warm. We get up close and personal with the folks down under in the latest episode. More at MyChristmasStocking.net. Shout out to Sarah who emailed me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.  Follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking. And join us on Facebook. **New phone number coming in the fall.

Featured music:

“On The Rooftop” by Gentleman Auction House from “Christmas In Love”
(Emergency Umbrella)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Happy Christmas” by Dan Lopes (from MacJams.com)

Background music:
“Wise Men Trio” by Yelena N. Eckemoff from “New Christmas Songs”
(L & H Production)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

“Adeste Fidelis” by Bruce Cockburn from “Christmas”
(True North Records)
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

For more information:

Santa’s.Net has lots of info about Australian Christmas (they should, they’re in Australia).  So does HowStuffWorks.com, LovelyChristmas.co.uk and Wikipedia.com. And Sarah from Australia deserves to be read.

In this super-stuffed Christmas Stocking episode, one of my favorite Christmas stories. I hope you enjoy it. Find info at MyChristmasStocking.net. If you have any stories or poems you would like to be shared on The Christmas Stocking, you can email me: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.  Also follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking. And join us on Facebook. **New phone number coming in the fall.

Featured music:

“Away in a Manger” by Amy Caldwell and Tom Moore

Background music:

“All Poor Men And Humble” by The Eden Symphony Orchestra from “20 Classical Christmas Favorites”(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
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More On This Album

“Christmas Pathetiqué” by Michael Allen Harrison from “Enchanted Christmas Volume Three”
(MAH Records)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

“Angels We Have Heard on High” by Tommy Harden (from “Peace On Earth”)
(IMI)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

You can read the story yourself.

Wikipedia has a nice overview of other versions of the story.

If you want to find out more about O. Henry (including his real name) The Literature Network is a good resource.

You send them, you receive them (if you send them), but do you know where they came from? You will, in the latest episode of The Christmas Stocking. More at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.  Follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking. And join us on Facebook. **New phone number coming in the fall.

Featured music:

“It Doesn’t Feel Like Christmas” by Jeff Oestreich (from GarageBand.com)

Background music:

“A Christmas Festival” by the Goose Creek Bands (from Soundclick.com)

More information:

Livaudaisnet.com has a great history of Christmas cards, along with lots of pictures.

Ideafinder.com also has a good history.

Of course, Wikipedia has a page on Christmas cards, too.

By request via TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET, we look at the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes and their history, along with information on this year’s Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. More at MyChristmasStocking.net.Follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking. **New phone number coming in the fall.

Featured music:

“O Christmas Tree” by The GrooveBarbers from “Happy Holiday – Christmas Favorites”
(Rock River Music)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

Background music:

“Nutcracker March” by Pittsburgh Symphony Brass from “A Song of Christmas”
(Four Winds Entertainment, Inc.)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

King’s Blues March” by Marc Reift Orchestra from “Swingle Bells”
(Marcophon)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“O Christmas Tree (jazz piano trio)” by John Stebbe (from MacJams.com)

Find out more:

You may still be able to buy tickets to the national tour or even the Radio City show!

The New York Times likes the Rockettes: A review from 2005, background on the life of a Rockette from 2005, a profile of the new director and choreographer of the New York show from 2006, and background on last year’s 75th anniversary spectacular. Put ‘em together, it’s a lot of information.

The New York Daily News has a nice profile of the Rockettes, too.

Wikipedia has a lot of information, too.

2009 UPDATE: The show opens Nov. 13 this year.

As much as we say it’s not happening this year, most of us will end up doing more Christmas shopping than we were planning to. This time, we have some Black Friday tips and general shopping tips. And someone special called. You can, too. **New phone number coming in the fall. More at MyChristmasStocking.net.  Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.   And follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking.

Featured music:

“Chiron Beta Prime” by Jonathan Coulton

Background music:

“Innkeeper” by Yelena N. Eckemoff from “New Christmas Songs”
(L & H Production)
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Silent Night Instrumental” by Jiggajoe (from Soundclick.com)

“Up on a Housetop” by Kevin MacLeod (from Incompetech.com)

For more information:

There are a ton of sites with Black Friday info, which will probably be updated throughout the season like  Black-Friday.net and BlackFriday.info (which has a nice news blog, too).  Don’t forget CyberMonday.com, which looks like it’s in cahoots with the merchants (not that there’s anything wrong with that).

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution website has some good shopping tips, and the Worcester Telegram has cyber shoppping tips.

I also mention John Hodgeman.

The holiday season is starting late this year because Thanksgiving is late. Whose fault is that? Find out in the first edition of The Christmas Stocking. More at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.  **New phone number coming in the fall. Follow me on Twitter.com/XmasStocking.

Background music:

“All Poor Men And Humble” by The Eden Symphony Orchestra from “20 Classical Christmas Favorites”(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

“Mo’oz Tsur” by Laurie Z. from “Heart of the Holidays” (Zebra Productions, Inc.)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Over the River and Through the Woods (grandma mix)” by Ignite Sky (from Soundclick.com)

“Seasoned Greetings” by Davie Allan and the Arrows from (”Fuzz For the Holidays 2″)

Featured song:

“Christmas Is Coming To Town” by Anna Wilson from “Yule Swing!”
(Transfer Records, LLC)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

More information about Thanksgiving:

The History Channel lists some “Mayflower Myths,” a possible menu for the first Thanksgiving, and they have the Thanksgiving proclamation by the Continental Congress in 1782.

Wikipedia has almost too much on Thanksgiving.

Macy’s has more on Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Real fans of Christmas don’t need a great or even good economy because that’s not what Christmas is about.  I know I need some Christmas, and hopefully you need some Christmas Stocking.  More history, more stories, and more Christmas traditions are coming this year, along with great Christmas music you won’t hear many places.  This is your Christmas podcast, and if you have any ideas for it, let me know at MyChristmasStocking.NET! Or you can Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.  Say Merry Christmas to someone you love or everybody who listens by calling or emailing me, too. **New phone number coming in the fall.

While you’re waiting, feel free to download any of the 24 past episodes.  Talk to you soon in the Christmas Stocking.

Music:

“Nutcracker” by DaT bOi TriLL (from Soundclick.com)

When you need to escape the summer heat, or you just need to feel a little Christmas, pop on the Christmas Stocking Summer Music Spectacular, chock full of extra music, some fun holiday facts and a little holiday advice, too.  See more at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET. I’m looking for music.  If you know about or make podsafe Christmas music, please let me know. If you have any ideas for features this Christmas, especially interactive ones, also let me know! **New phone number coming in the fall.

Background music:

“Jolly Old St. Nicholas/Jingle Bells” by Bill Cunliffe, Clay Jenkins, Larry Koonse, Joe La Barbera, Tom Warrington from “Snowfall” (Jazz Compass)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

“Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by Cape Cod Winds Ensemble from “Our Nantucket Wedding Album” (BuddhaWax)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

“Good King Wenceslas” by Karl Frederick Grossman (from GarageBand.com)

“The First Noel” by puddydawg (from GarageBand.com)

“Seasoned Greetings” by Davie Allan and the Arrows from “Fuzz For the Holidays 2″ (Spinout Records)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

Featured Music:

“O Come, All Ye Faithful” by Glen Ellyn Chorale from “Christmas Traditions-20 Treasured Songs of the Season Performed in Classic Styles” (Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

“Christmas Song” by  The Swingle Singers from “Unwrapped” (The Sound Corporation)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

“A Pirate’s 12 Days of Christmas” by Gastronomical Unit (from GarageBand.com)

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas” by  Gloria Reuben from “Let it Glo” (Celebrity Loop)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon

More On This Album

“On Christmas Night” by Simon Bernard- Smith, Simeon Wood & John Gerighty from “Breath Of Christmas – Christmas Favorites Featuring Panpipes And Flute” (Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

“George Bailey” by Carolyn Sills from “George Bailey” (Silent Stereo Records)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

“Snow” by The von Trapp Children from “Snow – New Songs of the Season” (IMI)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

Just a quick thanks and finishing up the season. And another Merry Christmas wish from the voicemail! Feel free to email me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET. I’m always looking for episode ideas and podsafe Christmas music! Check back for pictures of NYC at Christmas and more at MyChristmasStocking.net.
Whenever you need a little Christmas, the Christmas Stocking will be here.

Background music:

The Twelve Days of Christmas by Dayvel aka “Uncle Dave” (from SoundClick.com)

From Christmas ‘07: My family’s favorite holiday movie is the original Miracle on 34th Street. I love Santa Claus. There’s a lot you may not know; you’ll get the info in this episode. Tell us about your miracle at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET .  NEW PHONE NUMBER:  206-203-2692. Oh, yes–Merry Christmas!

Background music:

“Jingle Bells” by The Eden Symphony Orchestra (from “A Philharmonic Christmas”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

“Joy to the World” by Simon Leyton (from “Classical Christmas – Classical Interpretations Of Christmas Favorites”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

Featured music:

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas” by The New Bethlehem Ensemble (from “A White Christmas”)
(Ultraviolet Productions)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

More information:

imdb.com has all kinds of info.

Wikipedia.com has a pretty good article.

Here’s the Amazon.com link, which has a very in-depth review with lots of info on the extra’s (and from the extras).

From Christmas ‘07: The most famous ghost story is also one of the most famous Christmas stories, and we look at the story behind the story. Tell us your Christmas story at MyChristmasStocking.net, email me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music:

“The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy” by Frank McConnell (from “Christmas Guitar – Warm And Intimate Christmas Favorites”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by Herbie Flowers, Mike Hatchard (from “Christmas Jazz – Colourful Interpretations Of Christmas Favorites”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

Featured music:

“Christmas Song” by Greener (from “Christmas Song”)
(Two Lions Media, Inc.)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

More information:

Here’s a closer look at the story of A Christmas Carol.

Pastor Mark D. Roberts loves the story and goes in-depth with Dickens’s influence.

Here’s a nice overview of Charles Dickens’s influence on Christmas.

Wikipedia.com’s biography of Mr. Dickens.

If you’re ever in London, you might want to visit the Charles Dickens Museum.

From Christmas ‘07: Too cold for you? Then travel to South America with the Christmas Stocking to see how they celebrate there. Then let us know how you celebrate at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music:

“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” and “Ding Dong Merrily on High” by The Mambo Folk (from “A Latin Christmas Fiesta- A Rhythmic Collection of Seasonal Sambas, Merry Mambos & Christmas Cha Chas!”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

Featured music:

“See Amid the Winter’s Snow” by The Mambo Folk (from “A Latin Christmas Fiesta- A Rhythmic Collection of Seasonal Sambas, Merry Mambos & Christmas Cha Chas!”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

More information:

An Indian website (as in India), Christmas-Day.org, has a great overview of some South American Christmases, as well as many other traditions from around the world that have influenced their celebrations.

Wikipedia.com has a tour of Christmas around the world.  This link will take you to the South American section of the page.

“Christmas historian” Bill Egan looks at Christmas in Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador and Argentina.

From Christmas ‘07: A ballet that is almost synonymous with Christmas, the Nutcracker was not a favorite of Mr. Tchaikovsky, although it grew on him. You’ll find out more and hear some music from The Nutcracker Suite in this episode. Comment at MyChristmasStocking.net, email me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET. Thanks, Melissa, for calling and wishing your family Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas to you!

Background music:

“Nutcracker Overture” by Music Box Archives (from Soundclick.com)

“Deck the Halls” by Herbie Flowers, Mike Hatchard (from “Christmas Jazz – Colourful Interpretations Of Christmas Favorites”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

Featured music:

“March” from “Nutcracker Suite Op. 71 Pt. 2” by the Goose Creek Bands (from Soundclick.com)

More information:

BalletMet Columbus (OH) has a comprehensive history of the ballet.

Wikipedia.com has some good information on both Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker and the original story.

Ballet Minnesota has a timeline of the ballet’s development.

Here’s a quick synopsis of the plot.

From Christmas ‘07: A change of pace this episode. Suzy Clemens, the daughter of Mark Twain, received at least one letter from Santa Claus. Can you imagine? That would be so cool! We will look over her shoulder and read it. Let me know what you think of this special episode at MyChristmasStocking.net. Or email me: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET . NEW PHONE NUMBER:  206-203-2692.

Background music:

“Variations on a West Country Carol” by USAF Concert Band and Singing Sergeants (from “Make the Season Bright”)
(Altissimo!)
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

“Away in a Manger” by Frank McConnell (from “Christmas Guitar – Warm And Intimate Christmas Favorites”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

Featured music:

“Snow” by The von Trapp Children (from “Snow – New Songs of the Season”)
(IMI)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon
More On This Album

More information:

If you would like a copy for yourself, maybe to read to your child…

From Christmas ‘07: So many countries, so little time…but we try to cover as many as we can. Africa sounds like a great place to spend Christmas. How do you celebrate? Tell us at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET .

Background music:

“Angels We Have Heard on High” by Tommy Harden (from “Peace On Earth”)
(IMI)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

“Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day” by Simon Bernard-Smith (from “26 Christmas Panpipe Favorites Played on authentic European & Andean Panflutes/Panpipes”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

Featured music:

“Christmas in London” by Krista Detor(from “Christmas in London”)
(Corazong Records)
More On This Album

More information:

Australian site Santas.net has a lot of great Xmas info, including much of this episode.

About.com has some interesting info, including how to say Merry Christmas in many languages native to Africa.

A personal account of Christmas in Africa in 2002.

How do they celebrate in Ethiopia?

From Christmas ‘07: A lot of what we know as Christmas came from the Victorian era, and some earlier traditions that we enjoy today were revived in the Victorian era. Tell us your favorite traditions at MyChristmasStocking.net. Or email me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music:

“O Little Town Of Bethlehem” by The Columba Minstrels (from “Christmas On The Back Porch- 20 Treasured Songs of the Season performed in Simple Folk styles”)
(Classic Fox Records)http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3?http://www.garageband.com/mp3/17_Victoria.mp3?|pe1|WdjZPXLrvP2raFSzZGxs
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

“It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” by Eric Wyse (from “Christmas Angels- 20 Treasured Songs of the Season Performed In Peaceful Styles”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

“We Three Kings Of Orient Are” by London Fox Players & Tim Mather (from “20 Christmas Party Favorites”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

Featured music:
“I Saw Three Ships” by The Choir of St George’s Chapel, Windsor (from “Cathedral Christmas”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

“Love Came Down At Christmas” by Chichester Cathedral Choir (from “20 Choral Christmas Favorites”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

More information:

The official web site of the British monarchy has an excellent history.

Stuart Buchanan MacWatt writes about the personal side of Victoria and her family’s approach to Christmas.

As mentioned in the episode, a link to the holiday store windows of the past from Victoriana.com.

A nice overview of Christmas in Victorian times.

From Christmas ‘07: This year, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York City has some 21st century improvements. And there is no improving on the Grinch! Let us know about your Christmas tree, or your Grinch, at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music:

“O Christmas Tree” by Jenny Crook (from “Christmas Harp – Elegant Expressions of Christmas with Celtic & Concert Harps”)
(Classic Fox Records)
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

“We Wish You a Merry Christmas” by the Moscow Symphony Orchestra (from “Christmas Fantastique”) I found it at FeelsLikeChristmas.com
(Nelidova Records)

“Pat-a-Pan” by US Air Force Concert Band and Singing Sergeants (from “Light One Candle”)

(Altissimo!)
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

Featured Music:
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Medley” and “Caroling Caroling Medley” by Tennessee Ernie Ford (from “Family Christmas”)

(IMI)
More On This Album

More information:

A detailed biography of Dr. Seuss can be found on the official Seussville site.

Find out about the Dr. Seuss National Memorial.

Want to buy the How the Grinch Stole Christmas – Anniversary Edition: A 50th Anniversary Retrospective?

Want to buy the video version of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (50th Birthday Deluxe Remastered Edition)?

imdb.com’s entry on the TV special.

Wikipedia has entries on Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and the Grinch himself.

From Christmas ‘07: Black Friday is here again, and we look at what the shopping season will be like this year, along with the Neiman Marcus Christmas Book, celebrating their 100th anniversary. Go to MyChristmasStocking.net to comment. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music:
“Skating” by Buselli-Wallarab Jazz Orchestra (from “Carol Of The Bells”)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album

“Seasoned Greetings” by Davie Allan and the Arrows from (“Fuzz For the Holidays 2″)
More On This Album

Featured song:

“Black Friday” by Music for Viola (from “Takin’ Care of Christmas” and Soundclick.com)

More information:

You can look at the Neiman Marcus Christmas Book yourself. Wikipedia has some choice selections from previous Christmas Books.

Back down to Earth, here’s the Sears Wish Book. And a nice history of the Sears catalog.

Christmas shopping ‘07 forecast: The Game industry and big screen TVs. Will the United Kingdom have a good shopping year? Or a bad one?

From Thanksgiving ‘07. All-new for 2007! It’s not Thanksgiving without parades, and this year we will look at a bunch of the parades that usher in the Christmas season. Let us know what you think at MyChristmasStocking.net. Email me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music:

“A Christmas Prelude” by US Air Force Band Of Mid America (from “A Musical Christmas”)

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“He Is Born” by Eric Wyse (from “Christmas Peace – Seasonal Favorites On Solo Piano”)

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Featured songs:

“Christmas Wishes” by Greg Hauge (from GarageBand.com)

“Silent Night” by Dean Krippaehne (from GarageBand.com) (and Dean’s myspace page….)

More information:

Macy*s has some stuff about their parade.

Here’s lots of info on America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit. And The Detroit News’s history of the parade.

Chicago’s parade.

Houston’s parade.

The LA Times story on the Hollywood Santa Parade.

When you’re in the mood for Christmas, pop on an episode of The Christmas Stocking. You’ll hear about Christmas history, celebrations around the world, maybe a story or two, and some great music. What would you like to hear on your Christmas podcast? Please, let me know at MyChristmasStocking.NET! Or you can Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET. If you know how to say Merry Christmas in another language, please do so at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Music:

“Jingle Bells” by The GrooveBarbers (from Ioda Promonet) (Available on iTunes, and hear the whole song on episode 10 of The Christmas Stocking, Santa Claus!)

“We Three Kings” by Steven Belong (from Soundclick.com)

From August 2007. Just as the heat becomes old and tired in much of the country and intolerable in others, the Christmas Stocking comes through with a music-filled episode, along with a few tidbits on how some of the summertime Christmas celebrations go down around the equator and below. MyChristmasStocking.net. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET. If you know about or make podsafe Christmas music, please let me know by email. If you have any ideas for features this Christmas, especially interactive ones, also let me know in comments or email! Thanks for listening.

Background music includes:

“Jingle Bells R&R Style” by the R&R Project (from GarageBand.com)

“Deck the Halls” by Technohazard (from GarageBand.com)

“We Wish You a Merry Christmas” from “A Christmas Concert for Brass” by Pittsburgh Symphony Brass
Four Winds Entertainment, Inc.

• Buy at iTunes Music Store
• Buy at Rhapsody
• Buy at Napster
• Stream from Rhapsody
• Buy at GroupieTunes

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Featured music includes:

“It’s Christmas” by Cleveland DERUE Cathnott (from GarageBand.com)

“Cool, Cool Christmas” by Dean Krippaehne (from GarageBand.com) (and Dean’s myspace page….)

“Carol of the Bells” by the St. Joseph Catholic Church Choir

“Holy Night” by Sandra Mooy

“Christmas In Malibu” from “Christmas in Malibu” by The Rad Dudes Radude Records

• Buy at iTunes Music Store
• Buy at eMusic
• Stream from Rhapsody
• Buy at Rhapsody
• Buy at Napster
• Buy at GroupieTunes

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“We Wish You a Merry Christmas” by the Grattones (from GarageBand.com)

My Podcast Alley feed! {pca-d63ea2001f2a035feef376381674d472}

From Christmas ‘06: Our look at the happiest time of year comes to an end with Epiphany, or Three Kings Day. Listen to find out ways many people finish out the Christmas season. And please keep your subscription open for future projects. Thanks for all the downloads, and make sure you come back next year! MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music includes:

“We Three Kings/Deck the Halls” by Christmas Classical Music (from GarageBand.com)

“We Three Kings” by Steven Belong (from SoundClick.com)

Featured song:

“We Three Kings” by Stephen Bashaw (I found it at feelslikechristmas.com)

For more on Epiphany/Three Kings Day:

Wikipedia goes in-depth, as usual.

The CRI/Voice website has some good information.

El Boricua gives a Puerto Rican perspective on Los Reyes Magos.

Serve.com is another good resource.

From Christmas ‘06: Santa is coming soon, and one of his Christmas elves, Norman, spills some secrets about him! Plus, a great barbershop version of “Jingle Bells.” MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music includes:

Birth to the Savior by Rejoice (from GarageBand.com)

“Jingle Bells” (mp3) by Chris Goddard
from “An Acoustic Christmas with Chris Goddard”
Milomix Productions

• Buy at iTunes Music Store
• Buy at Napster

Featured song:

“Jingle Bells” by the Groove Barbers from “Kids’ Club – Holiday Fun Volume 1″ (a compilation featuring many artists, including Lisa Loeb)
Rock River Music

• Buy at iTunes Music Store
• Buy at eMusic
• Buy at Napster

From Christmas ‘06: Plenty of music this time. And perhaps the craziest part of the Christmas season is the shopping. How long have we been doing it and how much of it will we be doing it are questions answered on the Christmas Stocking. MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET .

Background music:

“Carol of the Bells” by Jennifer Haines I found it on Music.Download.com

“Good King Wenceslas” by Karl Frederick Grossman (from GarageBand.com)

Featured songs:

“Joy to the World” and “Coventry Carol” by the Joy to the World!! Christmas Quartet (from GarageBand.com)

“Go Tell It on the Mountain” by the St. Joseph Catholic Church Choir

From Christmas ‘06: How was a Middle Ages Christmas different? For one thing, no one got an iPod. Find out how they celebrated way back when on this edition of the Christmas Stocking. MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music includes:

“What Child is This” by Stephen Bashaw. I found it at feelslikechristmas.com

“Jingle Bells” by The R&R Project (from GarageBand.com)

Featured songs:

“A Pirate’s 12 Days of Christmas” by Gastronomical Unit (from GarageBand.com)

From Christmas ‘06: All kinds of people celebrate Christmas all over the world! We travel around Asia in this edition of the Christmas Stocking. MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music:

“Oh Holy Night” by Chris Goddard (from “An Acoustic Christmas with Chris Goddard”)Milomix Productions

• Buy at iTunes Music Store
• Buy at Napster

Featured songs:

“Christmas Stocking 1969″ by Heather Sullivan (from GarageBand.com)

For more about Christmas in Asia:

An article from the Christian Science Monitor.

Info about east Asia.

Info about south Asia.

Wikipedia looks at Christmas in Asia. And Christmas customs in the Philippines.

And a bit more about the Philippines.

From Christmas ‘06: Sure, holly and ivy are pretty, but what do they mean? We look at that and mistletoe and poinsettias, too, in this edition of the Christmas Stocking. MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music includes:

“Pat-a-Pan” by the St. Joseph Catholic Church Choir (from Columbia, South Carolina, music from GarageBand.com)

“Silent Night” by Michael Silvestri (from the album “Christmas In New England – Guitar Celebrations For The Holidays”, on ItsAboutMusic.com)

• Buy at iTunes Music Store

Featured songs:

“The Holly and the Ivy” and “Carol of the Bells” by the St. Joseph Catholic Church Choir

From Christmas ‘06: Christmas has not always been a shopping fest. When did people start celebrating the birth of Christ in December (or so)? Why this time of year? Find out in the Christmas Stocking. MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music:

“The First Noel” by Linda Gentille from “A Gentille Christmas”
SnailWorx

• Buy at iTunes Music Store
• Buy at eMusic
• Buy at Napster

Featured songs:

“E-mail From Nigeria” by Dr. Elmo from “Hip Hopped Grandma”
Laughing Stock

“Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer” by Dr. Elmo
from “Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer”
Laughing Stock

• Buy at iTunes Music Store
• Buy at eMusic
• Buy at Napster

The History Channel website has a lot of great Christmas information.

You can find out a lot at Wikipedia.org, too.

From Christmas ‘06: A really big tree, and the one the world thinks of when they think of America’s Christmas Tree. How long have they been putting up a tree? The answer, and a really great Christmas original on the Christmas Stocking. MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music includes:

“O Christmas Tree” by Robb McCormick (from Soundclick.com) (here’s his myspace page)

“The First Noel” by Marti van Lin

Featured song:

“Cool, Cool Christmas” by Dean Krippaehne (from GarageBand.com) (and Dean’s myspace page….)

If you want to learn more about Rockefeller Center and its Christmas tree, the Rockefeller Center website has a lot of stuff.

From Christmas ‘06: The centerpiece of holiday decorating is the Christmas tree. Why do we bring a tree inside the house and put pretty baubles on it? Where did that tradition come from? We’ll answer those questions and more on the Christmas Stocking. Comment at MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music includes:

“Deck the Halls” by Technohazard (from GarageBand.com)

“O Christmas Tree,” one of Patricia’s Christmas Carols (from Soundclick.com)

“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” by John Morgan, available on a CD of Christmas music. I found it at feelslikechristmas.com

Featured song:

“Holy Night” by Sandra Mooy

If you want to learn more about Christmas trees:

The National Christmas Tree Association has a lot of information, including tree maintenance.

The Christmas Archives is full of information, like a full history of Christmas trees!

Wikipedia has a decent history, too, although it has a lot of opinions sprinkled in the information.

From Christmas ‘06: The most anticipated shopping day of the year for many shoppers, the most dreaded for others, and for retail employees: Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. What’s up with such a forboding name for such a fun day? We’ll get into that and more on the Christmas Stocking. What is the coolest, wildest gift you’re giving a loved one this year? Let me know! The music’s a bit crazy this time, just like the day. Comment at MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music includes:

Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies by Molly Pauken and Rob Brumfiel from the album “Six String Christmas”

Brooklyn Christmas by Peter S. Quinn (from GarageBand.com)

Featured song:

Christmas Hopes and Joy by Black Turtle

From Christmas ‘06: Thanksgiving is the official start of the holiday season, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade really sets the tone. Find out where Thanksgiving Day Parades started and relive the history of the big one–Macy’s in New York. Also enjoy some great holiday music! Comment at MyChristmasStocking.NET. Email: TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET.

Background music:

1) Deck the Halls by John Morgan, available on a CD of holiday music. I found it at feelslikechristmas.com

2) Birth to the Savior by Rejoice (from GarageBand.com)

Featured song:

The Santa Claus Rock by Howard Pearlman

From Christmas ‘06: The Christmas Stocking is a podcast celebrating the season, with traditions, food, stories and of course music. If you’re looking for something a little different to get you in the holiday spirit, look in your Christmas Stocking!
What would you like to hear? Christmas jokes? Pop music? Christmas carols? What would you put in a Christmas podcast? Comment at MyChristmasStocking.NET!