I'll Be Home for Christmas

One of my favorite Christmas songs ever is "I'll Be Home for Christmas." I love melancholy songs, and this one captures the longing for home in such a delicate, sweet way. Every Christmas, there are people we love who are far away, homes that are impossible to get to. This song is a reminder to hold those people and places in our hearts, and that they are a very real part of the season "if only in my dreams." The Bing Crosby version puts a lump in my throat every time I hear it. Especially this year, when the war in the Middle East continues to go on for so long, when so many people all around the world will spend the holidays in fear because of the constant threat of violence around them. Let's try to remember to keep our soldiers and all of those far and near who won't be "home" this season in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers. Let us hope for they will find some comfort, joy, and peace during the holidays and in the new year.

I created an iMix here with all my favorite versions of "I'll Be Home for Christmas."

In particular, the longing in this version by Etta Jones will knock your socks off.

And the harmonies are haunting in this version by The Beach Boys.