Saints Notes    December 14, 2009

A favorite yuletide carol has these lyrics '...the goose is getting fat, please to put a penny in the old man's hat.'

I suppose the goose gaining weight means it is ready to be the Christmas Dinner.  For many of us, we are concerned about getting fat after eating all the Christmas foods and sweets over the holiday.

The expression of your goose being cooked is generally a reference to being done, but not in a good way.

As a collector of antiquated sayings and cliches - I just enjoy the playing with the language - but between the two I prefer the goose getting fat.  It's ready for Christmas and time with family around the table.  I know I don't want to be the main course, but it is good to be ready.

Ready.  Are you ready?  In the time left before Christmas will you have the stockings hung by the chimney with care, presents nestled under the tree, and lights strung and gleaming brightly from tree and rooftop?

In the midst of burning your goose at both ends - don't forget to stop a moment and sing the familiar and favorite Christmas Hymn:

Be near me Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay

Close by me forever and love me, I pray.

Bless all the dear children in they tender care,

And take us to heaven to live with thee there.

10 days until Christmas!