Christmas Gifts
Santa handing out balloons, a “Merrie Christmas” sign, huge snowflakes, Christmas lights, lots of commercialization of Christmas and a detonation device disguised as Santa Claus.  Oh, and few other surprises (read below).

The true meaning of Christmas is…
A time to celebrate what’s important, namely, life and love.  Dramatically, the episode concludes with a look at the terror of war, as many die from the attack.  Surprisingly, citizens gather at a church on Christmas Eve and sing “Silent Night,” as they celebrate the holiday despite the carnage.  If I hadn’t know it was coming (I watched the episode after reading Ghostlighning’s post, “Christmas Anime Heartbreak“), I would’ve been shocked at the forerightness in which the series tackles the true meaning of Christmas, complete with several minutes of “Silent Night” in the background and imagery of Christ.  I’m only minimally familiar with the series, so the emotional impact of some key scenes are probably lost on me, but the beauty and melancholy on the episode are not.  If you get a chance, watch this episode as an appreciation of classic anime, and one that demonstrates the true meaning of Christmas.  Hulu is airing this episode and the entire series.

Stocking Stuffer
Cosplay of Lynn Minmay in a Santa hat?   Very cute!

On the ninth day of Christmas, anime gave to me:
A bloody day and silent night,
Broken hearts and ornaments,
Mio’s darling dresses,
Chiyo’s dad as Santa,
Haruka crushing,
a blonde Santa Claus,
a Christmas tree comet,
Paper Sisters birthday,
and Sakura knitting a nerdy dollie.

Tomorrow’s Forecast
It’s getting colder and colder.  You’d be best advised to wear a sweater (maybe a home-knit one from a loved one?).  Alcohol’s also known to warm-up a body – why not go to a Christmas party?