Show and tell on Miss James's blog! On Christmas day, my father gave me his old record player that I thought he had given away years ago! Since then, I've been excitedly listening to his vinyl lps, and every time I head out for some vintage shopping, I've been snagging up a record or two for my new collection.

But the other day, Phil spoke some needed truth into my life… he said, "So, uh, Mandi…? Are you listening to this record because you actually like this record? Or just because it's a record and it makes crackly noises?"

Hmmm… maybe it's time I reevaluate this little collection of mine… And I think I'll get rid of the Swannee River record.

Last weekend I finally decorated our humble abode for the Christmas season! Needless to say, I've been listening to my favorite Christmas tunes pretty much nonstop. But it got me thinking how swell it would be if I could listen to the very same Christmas records that my dad played when I was little. When it comes to nostalgia, nothing beats the sound of vinyl. So, true to form, I began scouring internetland for record players just like dear ol' Dad's.

Would you believe he actually still has the same stereo equipment that he purchased when he was in college? ('73!) Each year we still enjoy Christmas tunes coming through that vintage steel and wood clad receiver and out of those 35 year old speakers… but I'm sad to say Dad let go of the record player in '99, when he finally invested in a cd player. These players from Urban Outfitters seem really cool, and that one on the right almost looks like Dad's oldie. I'm looking for something I can hook up to our stereo receiver and blast through our modern-eye-sore speakers.

I would also be delighted hear some of my favorite bands on vinyl. It's not just vintage, kids.

(Fleet Foxes, Port O'Brien, Neutral Milk Hotel)

Ah, I just don't know what to do. Buy vintage? Buy new? I think it's too late for Christmas. But you know, my birthday is early January…

For me, part of the magic of the season is the wonderfully cozy songs that pop up this time of year. One of my fondest childhood memories is my father playing the same Christmas records on the stereo as we decorated the tree each year. So, if you're of the holiday persuasion, this mix should be sure to bring you tidings of great joy. Next time I'll make a playlist with my favorite Christmas carols. But these are my favorite holiday songs of all time.

(P.S. My all time favorite is The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole. What's yours?)