My Grown-Up Christmas List

1. "My Grown Up Christmas List" is a beautiful song with an important message. The song was written by music producer David Foster (music) and songwriter Linda Thompson-Jenner (lyrics). While Foster and Natalie Cole first recorded it in 1990, it became a holiday classic after Amy Grant popularized it with her 1992 version, adding her own verse for her album Home for Christmas. For me, the version I love the best is by Kelly Clarkson, released in 2003. The song inspires hope and wishes for the world to change, and I feel this message is one that everyone -- regardless of religion, nationality or political views can agree on. Do you also wish for peace and the end to world conflict and poverty?

2. There are not many Hanukkah songs out there, as compared to Christmas songs, but this one is my favourite on that short list. "Light One Candle" is a song by the folk group Peter, Paul and Mary. The trio performed the song in concerts starting in 1982, before recording it for their 1986 studio album No Easy Walk to Freedom. Again, it's a song asking for peace and light over darkness. Do you know this song, and will you join me in wishing everyone a peaceful, happy and healthy holiday season?