Dec 3, 2009

Marley Was Dead, To Begin With.

"Marley was dead, to begin with. There is no doubt whatever about that."

So begins my yearly tradition of reading Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. I never seem to grow tired of this story (or trying to read it aloud in a poor excuse for an English accent.) Every year I read a page or two each day in December, trying to stretch it out so that I finally finish "...God bless us, every one!" on Christmas eve.

There is a town, not far from here, where the theme is old English, and there is a town crier. They often decorate and have Victorian-type Christmas displays. I like to visit at least once each season. I don't think I'd have survived the Victorian ages (too much drama, too little health care) but I can appreciate our modern view of it's charms.

If you are looking for something to read this season, do try this little treasure. It never ceases to put a smile on my face!

16 comments:

Debra She Who Seeks said...

I love reading The Christmas Carol too (although not every December -- wow, you're dedicated!) And I also love the classic British movie with Alastair Sim (but it must be the original B&W, not colorized). The modern remakes will never surpass that film! Although "Scrooged" with Bill Murray was surprisingly good.

TMCPhoto said...

I might have to pick up this tradition for myself. How much fun would it be to read aloud to the Peanut?

Antoinette said...

Dickens is a treasure isn't he? I love this tale also. I just saw the latest Jim Carey take on the tale, which certainly retains a lot of the story's dark, gothic elements.

Jeanine DeNitto said...

what town are you refering to?

suzanne said...

What a great tradition. I've read it several times, but not every year. In fact, I think I'm overdue for another reading. :)

Tori said...

That's a great tradition! I might have to start reading it. Or, if I get busy, at least watch the movie.

Mother Moon said...

hate to say it I have never sat and read the book... seen several movies on it and love the story... in my older age though I have learned a love for reading... maybe I will sit and see if I could read it....

mxtodis123 said...

I love the Christmas Carol. It's a yearly 'must do.' Have you seen the movie "Scrooged" with Bill Murray? Well, when the ghost takes him to Christmas past check out the block. That's a small block in Queens where I used to live. The filming company decorated the block and allowed everyone to keep the lights.

Love your new look. It's fabulous.
Mary

Rue said...

Debra and Mary - I LOVE Scrooged! I will have to watch it again to see the place in Queens where you lived Mary! How nice that they did your decorating for you!

Jeanine - There are two not far from here - one is Summerland, BC (Canada) - they have a Christmas light up with a town crier and people dressed in Victorian garb. Plus the town itself has building laws (the theme is old English.)

Also, about three hours south is Leavenworth, Washington. It is more like a Bavarian town, but still with beautiful Christmas displays and activiites. I love this kind of thing.

Google "Dickens Christmas Celebrations" and you can find towns that put on Victorian Christmas activities and tours all over North America.

Anonymous said...

Yes I too love "A christmas carol" its an every year must watch. I remember when I was a child that movie was right up there with "Charlie Browns Christmas" "The Wizard Of Oz" and "The Grinch who stole Christmas"

stay blessed

Tamara said...

I really love A Christmas Carol too, it never gets old and has become one of our treasures. I also love the movie...the one with Alistair in it.

Jen said...

We are on the same wave length regarding this story. I'll feature it as my book of the month and write about my own connection to it. Those Victorian themed towns sound fantastic.

Anna said...

own it. never read it. may put on my list :-)

Dawn Marie Howard said...

Always wanted to read this!

Bridgett said...

You know I've never read this?

And I'm an avid reader too. For whatever reason, I've just never picked it up.

Perhaps I should though, huh? :D

)O(
boo

Witchcrafted Life said...

Without a doubt A Christmas Carol is one of my most treasured and beloved of holiday tales, too. Surpassed only by The Gift of the Magi as my absolute favourite Christmas story.


Wishing you a serene and joyful holiday season, sweet dear!
♥ Jessica