OK - IT'S REALLY TOMORROW THAT IT STARTS

Yep - you sharpies out there have already figured out that the chronological countdown to Christmas doesn't actually start until tomorrow... But having gotten your attention I'm glad you've stopped by, because I wanted to share a not so well know theory behind what those 12 days really represent. Which brings us to our first point of controversy on this subject... are the "TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS" the 12 days BEFORE or the 12 days AFTER? Well arguably they are the 12 days following Christmas day, which is the first. I'm taking the position and presenting my "program" as it's the 12 days leading up to Christmas day, with it being the last.

However, first we going into this decidedly Religious slanted view. And so, if you're not so inclined, perhaps you'd best just skip it and come back tomorrow. However, those who do pursue today's offerings will learn a thing or two, and it might just get you thinking.

Either way, the Christmas Season is shifting into high gear and that awesome day will be here in no time. CHRISTIAN 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Also worth noting, this version begins on Christmas Day and goes until January 6th, the First day of Epiphany, and as such there really are "12 days of Christmas". The link above will take you to a very detailed and well presented explanation, and if you really want to get into it, click on the imagery for each day for music and some devotional readings.

HERE'S THE "SHORT" VERSION:

The Partridge = Baby Jesus

2 Turtle Doves = Old & New Testament

3 French Hens = Faith, Hope & Love

4 Calling Birds = Four Gospels

5 Gold Rings = Torah, first 5 Books of the O/T

6 Geese = Six days of Creation

7 Swans = Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit

8 Maids Milking = Eight Beatitudes

9 Ladies Dancing = Nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit

10 Lords = Ten Commandments

11 Pipers = Eleven Faithful Apostles

12 Drummers = The Twelve points of Doctrine in the Apostles’ Creed.

And Please Remember, I am a strong believer in keeping CHRIST in CHRISTMAS and never, ever, EVER use X-Mas. It just ain't right. IMHO.

OH, and another thing, TODAY is my Nephew (Karen's Son) Benjamin's birthday. I was thrilled to find out that "BJ's" taken up football and has been found to be quite promising by his Coaching Staff. He's very self motivated and an aspiring young man.

One of his "hero's" is Adrian Peterson (2007 Rookiw o/t Year) of the Minisota Vikings, and he's taken #28 for himself. I for one am all for him and encourage him to pursue his path with vigor and hope like heck he can manage to stay healthy.

“Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart.” ~ Washington Irving