Storytelling

It's the most wonderful time of the year, and there is even a Christmas song that reminds us of that simple reflection. Part of the lyrics from this classic, always sung by Andy Williams in my head, rekindles our connection to the tradition of recounting memories as we gather with friends and family. I can hear Andy now, telling us about, "scary ghost stories and tales of the glories of Christmases long, long ago."

Letters of interest have been received from Sam Elliott ("Tombstone") and Robert Wagner ("Austin Powers" and "It Takes A Thief"), and offers are currently under consideration by other well-known A-list actors. The producers are also in talks with Eric Balfour ("Skyline" and "Conviction"), newcomer Johnny Marlow is attached, and a score set by Best Music, Original Score Academy Award Winner Dave Grusin ("Milagro Beanfield War"). The script is currently out to several name directors with Congdon also producing the film.Fresh ground beans means better flavor. Always grind at home before brewing. A grinder at home is a small investment in fresh flavor.Another Christmas memory comes from years later. Having just taken over managing a retail furniture store, I found myself on December 1 sitting on side-by-side boxes with my friend and supervisor, in a back room filled with merchandise. Both assistant managers had quit, and there was no time to hire and train anybody else until after the holiday season. We were short staffed due to illness, and the mall hours were extending to eight in the morning until eleven at night. Having worked together for a number of years already, we recognized that neither of us could manage the situation alone, and somehow we got through it. We have also managed to maintain our friendship, and will be spending Christmas together again this year, but under much less stressful circumstances. This is also one of my favorite Christmas stories because sometimes the Christmas spirit is one of endurance, perspective, gratitude and grace.Purchase only enough beans to fit your lifestyle. If beans go stale in a store they will also go stake in the house. If you only drink one cup a day, don't stock up on beans. Even if you buy your favorite, it won't taste as good if it goes stale.Destiny Gensemer Ballantines PR Email Contact Tel: 1.310.454.3080 Fax: 1.310.943.1978 www.ballantinespr.com

Christmas stories, especially the ones told over and over, taking on a life of their own, are like the ornaments on our Christmas trees themselves. Collected over time, they each add their own flavor, color and texture to our lives, and the lives of people in our communities. We don't have to have been present at all the events that generated the stories. Just hearing them and retelling them is enough. The stories, shared memories, and the prayers and hymns they become in our laughter and reflection become worship of God With Us once again.

Author: Cory L. Kemp