12 Days of Xmas

With thankful hearts, our Pendle family welcomes you as you are,
From Sanfransokyo to your home, whether near or far.
Join our virtual Advent 2025 cheer,
Wishing warmth, light, and grace this year and the next year.ありがとうのきもちでそのままだいすき
ペンドル・ファミリーがまってるよ
アドベント2025
あたたかくひかることしもらいねんも 🎵

RSVP FOR THE UPCOMING ONLINE FESTIVE EXPERIENCES

Together in person or together in cheer,
May holiday spirit warm our hearts this year.
However we meet, may laughter abound, let smiles appear!いっしょでもとおくても
こころはいつもぽかぽか
どんなであいでもえがおいっぱい
わらいごえがひびくよ 🎵

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Tueday, December 1

Today's advent gift is...

Holiday Lights in NYC

The world was getting smaller even before we all went virtual. To kick off the advent season, we warmly invite you to explore NYC's Christmas store windows, beautiful holiday markets, and outer boroughs to see some of the area's most wonderful holiday lights displays. Our online experience will feature anecdotes, holiday music, and video clips of classic holiday movies. This is a collaboration between Manross Memorial Library (host), licensed tour guides, radio talk show hosts, authors, college professors, historians, lecturers, world travelers, Art and Susan Zuckerman.

DETAILS AND FORMAT

Time: 3:30-4:30 PM PSTLink: http://post.spmailtechnol.com/f/a/LWg4QSSrOJwXXrZzHT42w~_/AAQxAQA/RgRhp6NP0RQaHR0cHM6Ly9icmlzdG9sY3QtZ292Lnpvb20udXMvai85NDQyNTgyNzU3ND9wd2Q9TlZsWmEyOXROalpTTTNGWlNFVlhabGRtYVZsbVVUMDlXA3NwY0IKAEcNy8Zfmokg41IUc2JvZXR0Y2hlckB1YjMxMy5uZXRYBAAAAAA~ (Zoom); the "meeting" link will be texted/emailed to attendees 30-40 minutes before startContact: +1 860-584-7790 (Manross Memorial Library)

Rob Noordeloos · Frank Sinatra - New York New York

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Wednesday, December 2

Today's advent gift is...

NYC Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

2020 marks the 88th lighting ceremony of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Every year, a tree is donated. This was a tradition that stemmed from the Great Depression. Workers pooled their money to buy a tree to bring joy for the holiday season, as most households were unable to afford a Christmas tree for themselves. It was meant as a beacon of hope and cheer for New Yorkers and visitors alike. Families also made homemade ornaments (tin cans on strings, paper garlands, strings of cranberries) to decorate the area.This year, the tree will be lit and on display starting Thursday, December 3, through early January 2021 from 6 am to 12 am daily. The tree lighting on Wednesday, December 2, will be closed to the public due to COVID. However, it will be live-streamed by NBC nationally (we'll be hosting a private viewing room). We will be hosting a private viewing room.

SPECS

Compatibility: ZoomHost: NBC/Hulu LiveDate/Time: Wed, Dec 2 7-11 PM PST

PRIVATE VIEWING ROOM

Zoom Link: https://experiences.xmasinplace.com/sp8

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Sunday, December 14

Today's advent gift is...

Cozy Online Fireplace + Relaxing Holiday Music

A very warm welcome to the 1st day of Christmas!Growing up in the Pacific Northwest accustomed me to cold, dark winter afternoons/nights. It made me appreciate some very simple things: the cozy (gemütlich) comfort of my mom’s portable room heater, a cup of tea (or even plain water) to warm the hands, sweaters/blankets, and a real, crackling fireplace. Toward the holidays, I reminisce on the sneaking, swift arrival of Jack Frost (a brush of ice crystals across the fallen, crimson leaves of Fall), the closeness/familiarity/warmth that winter weather brings, and family.Especially if you don’t have a fireplace, I hope you set this resource (10 hour HD fireplace video) to the background and put on some wintry tunes. May it bring you warmth and cheer while you go about your day.---クリスマス初日へ、心からのあたたかな歓迎を。太平洋岸北西部で育った私は、寒くて暗い冬の午後や夜に親しんできました。そんな環境の中で、ごくささやかなものの大切さを学びました。母が使っていた持ち運び式のヒーターが生む、こぢんまりとした（ドイツ語でいう gemütlich な）ぬくもり。手を温める一杯のお茶（あるいは、ただの水でも）。セーターや毛布、そして本物の、ぱちぱちと音を立てる暖炉。ホリデーシーズンが近づくと、私はいつも、忍び足で、でもあっという間に訪れるジャック・フロストのことを思い出します。秋に落ちた深紅の葉の上を、氷の結晶がそっとなぞるような光景。冬の寒さがもたらす、人との距離の近さ、なじみ深さ、あたたかさ、そして家族の存在。もし暖炉がなくても、ぜひこのリソース（10時間のHD暖炉映像）を背景に流し、冬らしい音楽をかけてみてください。日々を過ごすひとときに、少しでもぬくもりと喜びを運んでくれますように。

LINKS TO THE RESOURCES

Youtube 10 Hour HD Crackling Fireplace BackgroundFireplace Wallpaper/Screensaver to Bring out the 90s in YouPandora Peaceful and Relaxing Winter Playlist

Sophia Boettcher · Xmas In Place 2020 Virtual Advent Calendar

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Friday, December 4

Today's advent gift is...

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 1964 Stop-Action Motion Picture

Remember when Ben Wyatt of Parks&Rec spent months making 3s worth of stop-action cinematic masterpiece? Fall into the holiday cheer with a classic. In 2020, there are some themes that are quite dark (as fairy tales historically were): depiction of ruthless labor practices, making fun of those with congenital deformities or identifications (even Santa joins in), and the island of misfit toys unwanted because they are different. Fairy tales often painted a picture of social values and also warnings for children (teaching mores). So just like Disney movies now come with a warning, I warn you now...have fun and watch with care!

CRITIQUES/OPINION PIECES

New York Times ‘Rudolph,’ the Queerest Holiday Special 2019Entertainment Weekly 3 things that make Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer so special 2020The Washington Post Some people are upset about ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ 2018Medium Why Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer Was My First Queer Hero 2017

GET THE MOVIE

Those who have RSVP’d (see bottom of Home page) will receive a link to legally watch this vintage movie at their own pace or with family/friends. Or email me directly if you’re having technical challenges (Subject: Virtual Advent Calendar 2020).

DO A SOCIAL DISTANCED MOVIE NIGHT

Watch2Gether let’s you sync up and view a movie with friends/family (similar to Netflix Party). Both must be used with a desktop/laptop.There’s also Facebook Messenger’s Watch Together, but J is not on FB/NAACP calls to refrain from overuse.

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Saturday, December 5

Today's advent gift is...

Chocolate-Making with a Former BBC Correspondent

‘Tis the season to eat chocolate! But do you know where your chocolate comes from/how to make it? Join Nick Davis, a former BBC correspondent who was born/grew up during Britain’s organic, small-shop coffee boom of the 90s. As a young adult he developed a rare, life-threatening allergy to sulfites. Nick made his way down to Jamaica (where he now falls home) to start a new endeavor: One/One Cacao. We will learn the ropes of making clean, bean-to-bar chocolate and exactly the process that goes into this culinary rarity.To give perspective, in the US, there are 200 bean-to bar chocolate makers of the total estimated 7,497 total chocolate businesses. That’s 2.7% producers of heritage-method, healthful chocolate, where the only ingredients are cacao beans (no additives/emulsifiers/preservatives) and a pinch of unrefined cane sugar (e.g., demerara)

WHAT WE’LL DO

On this experience we'll learn the true story of how chocolate became the world’s favorite sweet. It's a bittersweet tale of hard work, craftsmanship, and how business can be a force for good.We start with a special welcome to Jamaica. One/One Cacao is located on the edge of the Blue Mountains overlooking Kingston. We’ll look down across the city towards the harbor as the host (Nick Davis) gives a brief history of the island and the historical use of cacao. We then get to know each other before we make our inclusion bars.Nick will tell you about how he went from a BBC Correspondent to a chocolate maker before he explains how we go from the raw ingredients to the finished yummy product.
He'll show you how to hand temper chocolate, from our original development kitchen using a bowl, a table and spatula. We'll go to creating our own custom made inclusion chocolate bars.We then go right into the farm, driving over a river bed, to have a closer look at the cacao estate.
We’ll introduce you to the pods up close, we’ll look inside the fruit and explore how the beans are fermented on the farm and how the nibs are processed before we unveil our own bespoke bars.

WHAT TO BRING

Some chocolate that can be melted in a microwavable/oven-safe bowlA spatula, ladle and spoonsA clean work surfaceMolds to pour chocolate into, they can even be tupperware lids

WHEN

Sat, Dec 52:00-3:00 PM PST

ZOOM LINK

https://experiences.xmasinplace.com/ft7

TECH TIPS

Due to multiple cameras, this experience would be best enjoyed on a desktop. This is so you can maximize views and also see your fellow experiences, especially when we get into the tasting segment.

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Sunday, December 6

Today's advent gift is...

Chocolate Coins for a Shoe Full of Hay?

Modern Christmas/holiday tradition has razzle-dazzle, sparkle, and feast food galore. Prior to the glitzy, impressive Rockefeller Christmas Tree we know today, the construction workers and working families of New York pooled what little money they had for a communal Christmas tree to shine a beacon of hope amid the Great Depression (individually, families couldn't afford a tree at home). They made paper garlands, strung cranberries, and made tin can ornaments.

BEFORE THE CHRISTMAS TREE

Even before the Christmas tree, we had the Yule (from the Persian word "Yalda," meaning light) tree (lit by live candles, which was undoubtedly a housefire and would today double as a wildfire hazard in many parts of the US). Before that, it was a Yule log.

BEFORE SANTA CLAUS AND ALL THE RESPLENDOR/GLAMOR

Our image of happy, stout elf Santa Claus comes from Civil War political cartoonist Thomas Nast (also responsible for the Republican elephant and Democratic donkey). But did you know Mithra (Persian god of light, 1400 BCE) and Miklavz (260 CE) predate jolly old Nick?On December 5 eve, we celebrate the arrival of Miklavz (St. Nikolaus, today's patron saint of travelers/merchants). Miklavz was a quiet, humble traveler from where is now Turkey, orphaned by his parents during a plague when young. We imagine a young man, lost, but then finding his way through charity/mutual aid and seeing the world through others' eyes. He and his horse made their way to distant lands to selflessly give all his worldly wealth to those less fortunate.

HOW WE GOT HOLIDAY STOCKINGS BY THE FIREPLACE

Miklavz found out that there was a father with three daughters of marrying age. Yet they were too poor (no dowry as was traditional in their culture). When he heard the father was going to sell his daughters and that they would be trafficked, Miklavz decided he'd sneak up on the roof for three nights and drop gold coins down the chimney to provide enough for a dowry, in hopes to save the children from a life of violence and sadness. They fell into their socks (hanging to dry). This is how we have the tradition of hanging stockings and also stocking stuffers (e.g., foiled chocolate coins, little toys).

HOW TO WELCOME MIKLAVZ

Every year, households leave a shoe outside the door (or mantle place). You can fill it with hay and horse-friendly treats for the animal companion of our weary, good samaritan Miklavz as he wends his way throughout the world, looking to help those in need. It is said his spirit of kindness/salvation passes through each of our homes, protecting and renewing us with hope.

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Monday, December 15

Today's advent gift is...

Desktop Pet Plugin

On the 2nd day of Xmas..Remember Felix the Cat? You may if you're a 90s baby like me. While summers usually meant swimming/lifeguarding, pretending to be mermaids/astronauts with my childhood friend, rescuing the occasional lost baby bird, and making plant potions -- I also used to download desktop/install pet plugins for friends (via floppy). Most of us didn't have our own real-life pet at the time. There were exotic fishes, dogs, birds, and frogs, but the most memorable companion was Felix.In 2009, Purina revived our little buddy. Whether you're allergic to kitties (nowadays Purina has developed a food for that) or a feline fan, I'm sure you'll enjoy this virus-free oldie-but-goodie.---クリスマス2日目…フェリックス・ザ・キャットを覚えていますか？
私と同じ90年代育ちの方なら、きっと懐かしいはずです。夏といえば、水泳をしたり、ライフガードの真似をしたり、幼なじみと人魚や宇宙飛行士になりきって遊んだり。迷子になった小鳥の赤ちゃんを助けたり、植物で「ポーション」を作ったりもしていました。そして、フロッピーディスクを使って、友だちのパソコンにデスクトップペットをインストールしてあげていたのも、今となっては良い思い出です。当時は、本物のペットを飼っている家はあまり多くありませんでした。熱帯魚や犬、鳥、カエルは身近にいましたが、いちばん印象に残っている相棒は、やっぱりフェリックスでした。2009年、ピュリナはその小さな友だちを再び世に送り出しました。猫アレルギーの方も（今ではピュリナがアレルゲンを減らすフードまで開発しています）、猫好きの方も、ウイルスの心配のない、懐かしくて安心なこの名作をきっと楽しめるはずです。

NOTES ON MYFELIX BY PURINA

Compatibility: PC-onlyApplication Size: 9,120 KBDeveloper: PurinaPublication Date: 2009Availability: Archive.org; https://archive.org/details/myfelix; I recommend the .exe unless you're familiar with using torrent files gaspHow to Delete: Close the application, move it to trash. Delete from trash. Restart PC.

JESSIE HODGESON'S REVIEW

Senior editor of Software Informer Jessie Hodgeson writes:MyFelix is a lovely application developed by Purina for all those who love cats. Felix is your computer pet, a nice kitty living beyond your screen, sleeping, leaving paw prints on your screen, meowing and purring. You can play with it using its toys, you can make it chase your mouse, and you can also feed it or give it water to drink. And if you get tired of it or have anything else to do you can simply put it to sleep for as long as you want.Read the full review here.

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Tuesday, December 8

Today's advent gift is...

Christmasland High-Res Wallpapers + Relaxing Noise

Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland is home to the "real" Christmas town (McAdenville, North Carolina, United States is another one). Dr. Stéphane Pigeon is a signal processing engineer from Brussels, Belgium. He helped be create a healing binaural beats audio biohacking piece when Opapa was sick in the hospital a few years ago (due to multiple infections/complications). Dr. Pigeon has worked at Roland and later his project Audible was sold to Amazon. Now he mostly works on his passion project, MyNoise.net.During one of his sampling recording sessions (to record winter walk sounds for auto-generation), Dr. Stephane ventured to Lapland (pre-COVID). Today's advent gift is a collection of some breathtaking, high-res (4890x2750, iMac Retina compatible) images he took while out in the pristine winter wilderness.Studies show auditory beat stimulation and calming music may exert a modulatory effect on the brain/nervous system and immune system. In any case, it sure is calming! In a time of uncertainty, I hope this helps bring peace to your holiday season.

Wallpapers

https://resources.xmasinplace.com/dqm

BioAcoustingHealingForOpapa.mp3 by Dr. Stéphane Pigeon, Michael Triggs, Dr. Gerald Oster, Mr. and Mrs. Kankenbeeld, and Sophia Boettcher

Link: https://resources.xmasinplace.com/vr6

Relaxing Noise Generator

Name: CalmyLeon
Address: https://calmyleon.com/

Calming Interludes Album by Dr. Stéphane Pigeon (All Computer-Generated)

Name: Calming Interludes
Address: https://resources.xmasinplace.com/wa7

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Wednesday, December 9

Today's advent gift is...

Virtual Israeli Cultural Evening and Chanukah Celebration

Chanukah begins on Thursday, December 10 this year. Tonight, we go to the Holy Land to begin celebrations with a special cultural evening. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, or just New Year's Eve -- tonight the Embassy of Israel welcomes all in spirit of the holiday season.Over the next 1.5 hours, we'll embrace the historic spirit of Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Hebron, and Tel Aviv in a multi-faceted cultural Israeli event.

LINK

Link removed by site admin for security purposes. Public-approved presentation will be posted later.

WHEN

Wed, Dec 9
5:00-6:30 PM PST

Virtual Historic Tour of Chanukah

An expert tour guide will join us for a historical tour of the origins of Chanukah. Through images and discussion, we will revisit the times of the Maccabees and the miracle of the eight nights. We also get a special virtual tour of how the Jewish people celebrate the holiday in Israel and different parts of the world.

ISRAELI COOKING & WINE DEMONSTRATION

Learn how to make special dishes in time for the holidays. Plus, an Israeli wine expert will showcase some special brands, discuss their origins, the proper way to enjoy them, and will offer secrets on how to best get them.

VIRTUAL TOUR OF BETHLEHEM

Our virtual guide will rejoin us for a tour of modern Bethlehem and show us the sites relevant to the upcoming Christmas festivities.

CHANUKAH CELEBRATION

To celebrate, the Embassy of Israel has put together a musical and dance presentation from native performers. Our evening will conclude with some virtual games, traditions, and mingling.

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Thursday, December 10

Today's advent gift is...

Small-Batch, Hand-Poured Candle

Yuletide comes from the Persian word "Yalda" (light). Many pre-Abrahamic religions, including Zoroastrianism and Manichaeism celebrated what we think of as Winter Solstice. In paleolithic times/before the advent of modern agricultural technologies, people throughout the world paid special reverence to light and its relationship between the seasons.Chanukah is the Festival of Lights/Feast of Dedication. It celebrates commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire. Yet, as we think of all the twinkling Christmas lights surrounding many houses, shops, trees, and cityscapes -- and even the names of holiday concerts -- Christmas too is a festival of lights. We commemorate joy, life, and light in the midst of hardship.

ABOUT THE MENORAH

History HannukahDartmouth News https://news.dartmouth.edu/news/2019/12/menorah-symbol-lightThe Times of Israel 7 facts about menorahs, the most enduring symbol of the Jewish people

The Wall Street Journal Why Does the Hanukkah Menorah Have Nine Branches?

GET THE CANDLE

If it hasn't arrived, it's on its way today (scheduled to arrive today). Get in contact with me for a tracking number if it hasn't by the late afternoon. (Miklavz's horse has to make another round of deliveries around the world, and this year hasn't been the sleekest to navigate.)

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Friday, December 11

Today's advent gift is...

The Official Downton Abbey Cookbook (Downton Abbey Cookery)

People always say, "They don't make [insert whatever here] like they used to." Whether you're a fan of Lords & Ladles, Downton Abbey, The Crown, or The Great British Baking Show, the holiday season would be incomplete without a bit of Victorian/English flair. Get ready for J's favorite way to prepare fowl: boiled/poached. Or some jiggly aspic (looks like jello mold meat). This read is suitable for everyone -- from zealous wizards in the kitchen to those who'd rather just order takeout/curl up in front of Netflix. I hope you enjoy this exploration into festive English aristocratic eats. It has over 100 family recipes/historical-personal touches added throughout. It's a wonderful peek into some heirloom methods of food preparation.

Get the Ebook

Those who have RSVP’d (see bottom of Home page) will receive a link to legally read this special edition book at their own pace, to attempt/share authentic Crawley estate recipes with family/friends. Or email me directly if you’re having technical challenges (Subject: Virtual Advent Calendar 2020).

Wise Sons Cookbook

Happy 2nd day Chanukah! From our household to yours, we wish you a beautiful Festival of Lights and Feast of Dedication! Did you know that while not mentioned in the Torah itself, Chanukah is mentioned in John 10:22 by the prophet Jesus, who made sure to be in Jerusalem to celebrate (referred to it as Feast of Dedication)? Not only does it celebrate the re-dedicating of Second Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt, but also the miracle of oil lasting for 8 days vs. one!

Cookbook Notes

Some reviewers may say Wise Sons’ cookbook aims to be too funny and is not kosher enough. I could see that. This isn’t a serious book for pro chefs or serious book at all. Amid the seriousness of 2020 — Wise Sons (three years ago, I closely studied and modeled my gluten-free challah after theirs) dedicated this cookbook to celebrating families, traditions, food, and friends. Brothers poke a little fun at themselves, kale-obsessed Californians (our family is guilty), and Chinese takeout for emotional events (70s movie A Christmas story with the singing scene and UberEats spike during the election). In their pop-up days, Woody Allen, a younger Mark Zuckerburg, and countless families lined up for their nostalgic-tasting matzo balls, bagel sandwiches, latkes, rugelach, and babka. Now, Evan, Ari, and Leo bring their stories and recipes to people’s homes, weaving personal touches of family holidays/get-togethers, anecdotes, and meals shared. After all, food and joy are for sharing widely.

What People Are Saying

SF Eater The New Wise Sons Cookbook Is Kind of HilariousJewish News of Northern California https://www.jweekly.com/2020/02/27/wise-sons-cookbook-is-a-fun-ride-through-jewish-cuisine-old-and-new/The Mercury News Perfect Passover seder: Recipes from San Francisco’s Wise Sons Deli

Get the Ebook

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Saturday, December 12

Today's advent gift is...

Andrea Bocelli Believe in Christmas Concert

This December 12, Andrea Bocelli and his daughter (Virginia) will grace the hallowed halls of Regio di Parma; here, they will make their call for faith, hope, and unity to patrons of the arts around the world. Bocelli, 62, is one of the greatest living operatic tenors and a rare disease patient who lost his eyesight to congenital glaucoma as a young boy (12). Partnering with PLUS1, his namesake charitable foundation is promising the proceeds of Believe in Christmas to alleviating poverty, illiteracy, distress due to illness and social exclusion.

Link

https://experiences.xmasinplace.com/29b Recording to be uploaded to our repository later

When

Sat, Dec 12
10:00 PM PST

Easter Music for Hope 2020

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Sunday, December 13

Today's advent gift is...

Sing Holiday Songs with Broadway's "Scar from the Lion King"

Today we're going to join Stephen Carlile, British actor/Broadway star best known for his roles in the Lion King, The Producers, Doctor Who, and My Fair Lady. He's going to teach us how to ace our Christmas caroling (or at least do better) this 2020.

Link

https://experiences.xmasinplace.com/tar

When

Sun, Dec 13
2:30-3:30 PST

What We'll Do

Live from his home on 42nd Street, Stephen is bringing holiday cheer with the magic of Disney AND Broadway.After a fun warm-up, he will share his top singing tips and techniques. Anyone can sing (not just professionals and musicians/the musically inclined/gifted)! We will learn a song and sing together. The goal is to connect and feel joyful.He will also tell us a bit about his journey -- from growing up in a tiny village in the West of England, to become a leading actor in the most successful show in Broadway history. During the Q&A we'll be sure to snag a bunch of Broadway insider knowledge and secrets!

What to Bring

Snacks
Refreshments

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Monday, December 14

Today's advent gift is...

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Retail stores are having a tough go this year, and commercialization of the holiday season is at an all-time high (or so it feels). Not too long ago Macy's was a rising department store star trying to position itself as THE trusted brand/thought leader. Kris Kringle may be the real deal or less so; nevertheless, he certainly seems to be able to navigate toy/holiday gift supply chain shortages like a 5-star hotel concierge crossed golden keys bearer.Making referrals (in the movie) outside traditional purview, Santa ultimately proves his loyalty to the children rather than a particular store. This in turn proves a great marketing stunt. The movie doubles as a plug for Macy's and a satisfying family movie. Miracle on 34th street provides a glimpse into the meteoric rise of mass consumerization of the holiday season that took hold starting in the 1950s.At the same time, Jerry Klinger (2018) writes in San Diego Jewish World regarding the film, "There is a universality about Miracle on 34th Street that happily is for those who will suspend disbelief with belief. We dispel our cynicism with the possibility of love."

Synopsis

In this Christmas classic, an old man going by the name of Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn) fills in for an intoxicated Santa in Macy's annual Thanksgiving Day parade. Kringle proves to be such a hit that he is soon appearing regularly at the chain's main store in midtown Manhattan. When Kringle surprises customers and employees alike by claiming that he really is Santa Claus, it leads to a court case to determine his mental health and, more importantly, his authenticity. (The Wright Opera House)The female lead (Doris) is portrayed as at times villainous (anti-Santa); she is also a successful businesswoman in a male-dominated world and a confident single mother. In the context of the movie, we maybe want her to believe in fairies and live happily ever after -- but she's independently awesome and makes her own magic happen.

Get the Movie

Those who signed up on the website should be able to get access to the movie on the day. If not, please reach out.

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Tuesday, December 15

Today's advent gift is...

PICO-8 8-Bit Indie Holiday Game

Every holiday, an intrepid band of "vintage," scraggly-bearded NES/arcade game enthusiasts come together to release new and original 8-bit games for the whole family to enjoy. They comprise former/current Googlers, cluster engineers, toddler wranglers, artists, and movie physics critics. These tiny games (really tiny! a cartridge is 32k) call to mind a simpler time. Yet also due to their carefully chosen, harsh limitations -- we expect nothing but full, creative expression from the designers and developers behind these quirky PICO-8 games.

Story

It's close to the holiday break, and a bored young student scribbles seasonal pictures. As he begins to drift off to sleep, they start to come to life..Left/Right - move cursor
X - drop ballTry to clear all boards in under 35 balls to unlock a new mode (Mouse required):
Up/Down - adjust ball size
Left click - (Ball) drop ball / (Line) click & drag to draw line / (Clear balls) delete balls
Right click - toggle modes

WIDGET ADDRESS

https://resources.xmasinplace.com/ha3

Developer

Enargy, Gruber, 2darray, Felice, and the PICO-8 Advent Crew at Lexaloffle

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Wednesday, December 16

Today's advent gift is...

Ugly Xmas Sweater Holiday Sing-Along

Off-key tunes and over-the-top printed sweaters go hand in hand, whether intentional or not. Embrace the holiday season and tackiness (is it the chic thing to do? It's fun though sooo) with a magical Zoom sing-along in NYC. This year, educators across the country were flung into the world of online learning. It was not without some glitches! Yet now we celebrate our triumphs and learning curves with a musical break. Remember, everyone can sing! Join Jenn Rafferty -- middle school music teacher, PhD of educational psychology candidate, and director at Dryden Intergenerational choir -- for an hour of song.

How Did the Ugly Xmas Sweater Get Its Start?

It's unclear how the tradition of uncomely winter attire was birthed. Some say the ugly Christmas sweater started in the 50s and wasn't meant to be ugly at all. To give context, this was around the time of the mass commercialization/rabid frenzy we know as the Yultide season (Miracle on 34th Street gives a glimpse of the meteoric rise/foothold of Christmas in American/global markets).These not-so-far-off ancestors of the infamous, beloved "ugly Christmas sweaters" were called "jingle bell sweaters." Their designs call to mind iopapeysa sweater (a classic Icelandic sweater made of special, waterproof wool only found on the Arctic island). Iopapeysa (a symbol of Icelandic tradition) is actually not as old as one might think either, originating in the twentieth century with the advent of imports. Nevertheless, the 1950s designs were more discrete and meant to evoke joy/artisanship (even if machine-produced).Not everyone liked the sweaters though. In the 80s, comics took to the stage and TV, venting their frustrations for having to don outlandishly-designed, scratchy sweaters each year. Cliff Huxtable of the Cosby Show is often credited with popularizing wearing sweaters with strange patterns.

LINK

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89571025543?pwd=WmR6anM2Z3BSTnA4WUVjb2FGR3c2dz09Meeting ID: 895 7102 5543Passcode: 550282

Lyrics

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mjnFGjOvYuMAb6TCmjklpRLbD36ZityTnNro2_9xmNQ/edit

WHEN

Wed, Dec 16
4:00-5:00 PM PST

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Thursday, December 17

Today's advent gift is...

Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker + A Glimpse into the Russian Embassy

We will begin with a short virtual tour and history lesson about “The Nutcracker”. Our expert guide will teach us how this evolved into one of Tchaikovsky’s most celebrated masterpieces.We will then enjoy some traditional Russian folklore music, including pieces by Father Frost and his daughter the Snow Queen.Then, we will be privy to a special performance of “The Nutcracker” that took place earlier at the Embassy of the Russian Federation.Greg Bland, a graduate of Georgetown University Law and Brandeis University, is taking us for a rare insider's experience of the beloved holiday favorite: Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Ballet. A lifelong friend of non-binary writer George Sand (cousin of the King o Poland and King of France), Tchaikovsky would have fit in with Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer and the dentist elf as he too would have been considered/identified as a "misfit." Though today it's become an integral part of the holiday season, upon release, the Nutcracker was only liked for its music (not the story/ballet).On December 17th we will get special access to this ballet performance, shot at the Embassy of the Russian Federation, as we celebrate the holiday season Russian style!And, stay tuned for the weekend. A special surprise is in store!

LINK

Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85904350192
Meeting ID: 859 0435 0192

WHEN

Thu, December 17, 2020 @ 04:30PM To Thu, December 17, 2020 @ 06:00PM

HOW LONG

1 hours 30 minutes
Note: Link to be sent out 30 minutes ahead of time for security reasons

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Friday, December 18

Today's advent gift is...

24/7 Puppy Cam

Is there anything better than puppies? Meet Aurora! She's a multi-generational F1B goldendoodle from breeders specializing in raising low allergenic/hypoallergenic service and therapy dogs in Ogden, Utah. Born on October 20 (Erika's birthday), this little one is now 8 weeks old and ready to start wending her way home. During the next couple of exciting weeks, Aurora will receive her second round of vaccinations, undergo Paw Print genetic evaluation, continue her ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation) training, do virtual (and/or hybrid if possible) puppy training with our canine psychotherapist/behavior modification specialist, and get acclimated to her optimized diet (formulated by Dr. Scripps and Dr. Wheeler). Follow Aurora's puppy playpen adventures up to the day Erika (preferred name: crazy fairymother) unites with Puppy!

LINK

https://zoom.us/j/96321776457

WHEN

December 18, 2020 05:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

HOW LONG

23 hours 45 minutes
Note: Link to be refreshed each day or host will extend the meeting

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Satjrday, December 19

Today's advent gift is...

Moscow Ballet's Russian Nutcracker, Performer Meet&Greet, and Special Dying Swan Performance

Today is the day of the Moscow Ballet's Christmas Special livestream: the Nutcracker Ballet, replete with all the bells and whistles. This year's turnout promises to be just as stunning, with the very real possibility of allowing greater accessibility (internet) and better views (there are no cheap seats!) despite performing to an empty theater. Feel free to dress up or down. And you don't have to wait till intermission to use the restroom/wait in line!We'll get a chance to personally chat with the performers at 9:00 AM and again right before the ballet at 4:30 PM. The Q&A session will be recorded, so if you don't get a chance to wake up (I know I'll be sleeping through at least one of them), don't sweat it. The holidays are for relaxing/being happy.

LINK

Dying Swan Dance/Meet & Greet (to be recorded and distributed later):
https://zoom.us/rec/share/cjQHyfDcAn4fw4Apa1SpYUKsB6jegCDpwt4Pq0jrXX9sxn7ooG633zjjVdK1l4U.E-kULOT3TjXPvBY
Passcode: 4L7K&y@MMain Performance:
https://experiences.xmasinplace.com/jz8

WHEN

Special Dying Swan Performance and Performer Q&A/Breakout Session -- Sat, Dec 19 @ 9:00 AM PSTNutcracker Ballet (Main Performance) 5:00 PM PST

HOW LONG

Meet and greet is 30 minutes long eachTypically the ballet runs 1:40 and 2 hours long (good thing about virtual passive events is you can run them in the background and it's perfectly polite!/also enjoyable)

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Sunday, December 20

Today's advent gift is...

Origami Holiday Orament-Making in Japan

Did you know Japan has its own equivalent of Santa Claus? Hoeiosho was/is a monk (or priest) who is known for his large belly and cloth sack that's full of toys/gifts for good little girls and boys. Parents would tell their children in warning that Hoeiosho has eyes on the back of his head, so they better be good!Today, we'll Zoom over to Kagayama, Japan to meet Teru, an origami instructor certified with Nippon Origami Association. As you probably know, origami is the art of folding paper. You take a square piece of paper and, without cutting, gluing, taping -- or altering in any way other than folding -- the possibilities for incredible creations are endless.In the spirit of the holiday season, we will be making ornaments to decorate the tree or fill your home with general cheer.

Zoom Link

https://experiences.xmasinplace.com/bc9

WHEN

Sun, Dec 20
10:00 - 11:30 PM PST

What We'll Do

Origami unites people and creates happiness, resulting in peace and smiles all around the world. Thanks to the online video conference tool via internet, Teru-sensei is able to set us up for an origami class. Please prepare internet environment and origami papers in advance.In the class, Sensei will introduce us to his hometown (a suburb of Tokyo), show some amazing origami works for ice-breaking, and introduce the attendees. Then he will instruct on how to fold some attractive origami works. Using origami paper, attendees will be walked through each step of folding. The goal is to have a couple of origami works completed in the class.It is recommended to join on a PC/desktop/laptop. However a smartphone/tablet should be okay for those who don't mind small screens and are well-prepared.

What To Bring

At least 5 sheets of origami paper, or any paper (such as wrapping paper) you cut into 15 x 15cm square sheet.Internet connected PC, tablet or smartphone having online meeting tool (zoom) installed.A penResource https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wmDsA4UhIyA-K07q68zHTS3ILV6hmlcQ/view

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Monday, December 21

Today's advent gift is...

Lesson with World Chess Federation Fide Master Xiao Cheng

Hey all you Queen's Gambit fans! Are you still dreaming of playing chess at the USCF 1000 rating or higher? Just like Beth, you have to start somewhere. Join Chinese American chessmaster Xiao Cheng, who came to America as a kid and played the U.S. Next. At 31, Xiao is not actively competing anymore (data science is his day job now); and yet, he's still in the top 1,000 worldwide and top 500 nationally. Xiao is going to show you "secrets" of professional/rated chess players that will instantly boost your game. Many of his students he's worked with one-one-one have gone from beginner to competitive tournament players/internationally ranked in a year.

Zoom Link

https://experiences.xmasinplace.com/snp

WHEN

Mon, Dec 21
2:00-2:45 PM PST

What We'll Do

Learn about a chess master's journey and then play a game yourself all at the comfort of your home. The experience will start with Xiao's story playing chess in China and the U.S. Next, we will play a simultaneous exhibition with all the students. Odds will be given too, so not only will you play, but you may have a chance to win too!

What To Bring

Computer with Audio and VideoA free lichess (chess platform) account will be provided right before the experience. Students will login into lichess to interact with Xiao

Lichess Account

TBA

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Tuesday, December 22

Today's advent gift is...

Virtual Tour of the Old City of Jerusalem and Bethlehem

Join a virtual guide as we explore the Holy City through each of its four quarters as well as the nearby city of Bethlehem.

What We'll Do

As we celebrate the holiday season, it is time to explore the sites from where they all began! Today, join a virtual guide as we explore the Holy City through each of its four quarters as well as the nearby city of Bethlehem.Our expert guide will offer a modern tour of each quarter of the Old City: The Jewish Quarter, Christian Quarter, Muslim Quarter, and the Armenian Quarter. We will learn about the Western Wall of Solomon’s Temple, the Dome of the Rock, the Temple Mount, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and the Western Wall Temple (among others). Our live guide will be using photos, art (and perhaps other media) during the tour. He will cover the history and modern significance of each location. we visit.We will learn about the Temple and see the site which the miracle of Chanukah occurred.Then, visit the ancient city of Bethlehem and see the sites relevant to Christmas, including the Church of the Nativity.

CONNECTIVITY

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85196091517Meeting ID: 851 9609 1517

WHEN

Tue, December 22, 2020 @ 04:30PM To Tue, December 22, 2020 @ 06:00PM

What To Bring

Computer (smartphone okay), strong Wifi/4G signal

Meet Lapland Santa Claus

Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland is home to a real-life Christmastown where the residents are busy preparing for Christmas every day of the year. Did you know in some countries like Iceland, more than half of people believe in elves? In Finland, the locals elves are called Haltija.Today, we'll get to talk with the "real" Santa Claus from Lapland (he's been officially identity-verified). He is a very musical, jolly fellow who speaks English, Suomi, Svenska, Swedish, Finish, a bit of Russian, Spanish, and Chinese.

Zoom Link

https://experiences.xmasinplace.com/62v

WHEN

Tue, Dec 22
9:00 - 9:30 PM PST

What We'll Do

Get ready for a meeting with a real Santa Claus from Lapland. Santa is always happy to see happy faces. He loves to see people sharing time with each other on Christmas.To start the experience, he will introduce himself and hisbackground as Santa. Santa will ask guests to introduce themselves -- name, where you are from, favorite topics at school, wishes for this holiday season, etc.Each person will have a chance to chat and ask questions - Santa has over 400 years of experience as Santa, so you can ask anything! For example, many people think that Santa lives in North Pole but he will explain that I live in Lapland. Of course he loves to tell about all the elves behind the windows, who are making the toys in a toy factory -- a very secret place. He'll share more about his secret home in Ear mountain, where he reads all the letters, and eats delicious food Mrs. Santa makes, especially rice porridge.All ages are welcome! This is a great activity to do together over the holiday season, friends families, and teams!

What To Bring

A sense of curiosity, open mind, and wonderment

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Wednesday, December 23

Today's advent gift is...

Festive Zoom Backgrounds

Social distanced this holiday season? All the more reason to check-in with loved ones and turn on some holiday ambiance. Your apartment may look a bit frightful/your bed may still be undone. These 10 festive holiday Zoom backgrounds are sure to bring laughs and good cheer to the front-and-center.For this weekend's call with family/friends, why not put on your coziest sweater and dress your Zoom with one of these seasonal backgrounds?

How to Change Your Zoom Background

Click on one of the links below your favorite holiday Zoom background to open a 1920 pixel X 1080 pixel file for desktop or 756 pixel x 1008 pixel file for your mobile device. Then you can right-click, and save the image to your desktop or tap and save to your mobile photo library.Tip: For best effects, choose a room with a wall that has a solid background color.When you log into your Zoom account:- Click your profile picture and choose the settings link.
- Find the Virtual Background tab. (You’ll need to make sure the Virtual Background button is "on" from the Meeting tab.)
- In the Virtual Background tab, you can upload your own Christmas virtual background saved on your desktop.If you’re using Zoom from your phone:
- When you’re logged in, click the More tab and tap the Virtual Background option.
- Choose a background from the provided library or upload your own photos.

Image Credits

Provided by The Bash and Shutterstock

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Thursday, December 24

Today's advent gift is...

Pope Mass + It's a Wonderful Life

Each year, the Pope leads a midnight mass on Christmas eve. This year, Pope Francis will lead mass from St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.We will prelude the stream with a showing of the classic movie It's a Wonderful Life (1946). Directed by Frank Capra, It’s a Wonderful Life stars Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, a discouraged and despairing savings and loan manager who contemplates suicide before a guardian angel, Clarence (Henry Travers), intervenes and allows him to see what his small town of Bedford Falls would be without him — and all that is right in his world. (Pop Culture)Join for either or both. Since our household celebrates singing to trees (lol) and opening gifts on Christmas Eve, we'll hang in the private viewing room as tech support.

Private Viewing Room

https://experiences.xmasinplace.com/1fb6d

WHEN

Thu, Dec 24
8:00 - 11:00 PM It's a Wonderful Life (1946)11:30 PM - 1:00 AM Pope Mass

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Friday, December 25

Today's advent gift is...

Texas Indie Metal Duo Go A-Caroling

Merry Christmas! From our household to yours, we think of each of you with warmth. On this day, Joseph, Apricot, and I send extra thoughts and prayers that you may be blessed with an extra measure of comfort, joy, and hope.It's been too long since we’ve seen each other. TOO long! Thanks for joining in with the virtual advent celebrations this month! It has personally been a bright spot during this unprecedented time.Sending virtual hugs! Wishing that the new year brings us all new possibilities.

About the Band

Two Far Gone is an indie metal group from Texas. While looking for a last hurrah to finish off the advent calendar, I was contemplating sourcing some virtual Victorian-themed Christmas carolers to come knocking/a-caroling. However, I quickly figured out they have been 1) very, very popular and 2) in comparison, so many aspiring artists from comics, and rappers, to street performers have been stuck at home with their careers on hold.So I took it as an opportunity to work with this talented duo (just getting started) to share/teach some German songs and also rustle up some holiday cheer. I wish them well, especially since I'm a kindred spirit with anyone who is a fan of Robert Johnson.

Viewing

https://resources.xmasinplace.com/vzj

Password

XmasInPlace2020