This is the first time in a few years that I’ve been home to truly prepare for the Christmas season. I realized, I didn’t feel like decorating, wrapping presents and I never feel like shopping. I needed to be home to play games, cook, listen to and sing music, dance with my kids and truly connect with the spirit of the season.

I was fortunate enough to have a few opportunities to sing a few small concerts. No pomp. No gowns. No professional symphony that has played these pieces adnaseum and can’t wait to be done for the season. I had the true gift of singing to raise money for GLBT programs at a church in downtown Sacramento, as well as singing simple, beautiful melodies to tell the Christmas message of love. The truth is, I really had an opportunity to prepare my heart through music this season and share it with my community and my family. What a gift!