Here’s to the resounding joy of feeling “unshelved.” After a season of waiting, a person starts to question their shelf life duration and, well, freshness. Rusty as we may feel, it’s heartening (and often humbling) to be called back into service again.
To be divinely sidelined for a season wears on the ego like weather eroding the sheen on a bell. The song’s still there. But we feel useless. Forgotten. Marked—even scarred—by waiting.
Antique dealers charge more for patina. Will we value the incomparable soul patina we acquire in times like these?
Here’s a carol that Bill and I recorded, years ago. Then shelved.
“Christmas Song” was written by Bill, and arranged and produced by our brilliant friend, Chris Lobdell.
Newly unshelved, this song comes with heartfelt hopes for your celebration and the timely fruition of your God-given dreams.
I always loved this song, thanks for sharing it again.
You’re welcome! I love it too. 🙂
Wow! I am so happy to hear that your beautiful music is traveling the world through the vehicle of the internet……which, I don’t think even existed when we recorded this! I am honored to have had the blessing and opportunity to have labored side by side with Bill and Laurie on this project Simple Again, as I was just starting my career…………… Bill and Laurie, you two are among the most gifted, and fun!, artists that I have had the privilege to call dear friends………..and, oh yes……make killer music together. A song Like the “Christmas Song” seems timeless as I rediscovered this Album in a transfer from vinyl. I think the entire album needs to re-surface!!!!! With love, respect and joy, Happy 2016! Love, Chris Lobdell
Dear Chris, working with you was a dream realized. How young we all were. And boy, did we labor! You shepherded us through the creative process, sharing your zest and genius and encouragement every step of the way. We are so delighted to be reconnected with you (Thank you, Facebook!). Wishing you the best New Year ever!!
I love you two….What can i say!!!! I’m thrilled that you posted the Christmas Song! those great jazz french horns! that really was a kick-a## production! Do you possibly still have one of the SimpleAgain albums? I would love to have one….lost mine somewhere in 30 years or so!!!!! I love your sage and healing posts Laurie, You two are jewels God gave me in this life….really! and forever!!!!!!….that’s the best part!!!!!!!1
Your time stamp says strange times……..Jan 2nd ? ….somewhere!!!!!!
Oh dear, I’ll have to get someone to help me with that. I have so much to learn! Thanks for the heads-up!
Chris, Bill is going to search his office shelves. He thinks he might still have two copies tucked away. Thank you for your encouraging words about my blog. I’m so glad you enjoy it! Sending a huge cyber-hug your way . . .
And I’m sending you some warm thoughts!!!! Here it’s COLD there in the greater Spokane area!!!! BRRRRRRR!
That was beautiful, Laurie. So glad you posted it and glad I came by to check out fb! Happy new year blessings to you.
Jacqueline, thank you for dropping by! Wishing your joy in the year unfolding before you.
How BEAUTIFUL the feet of those who bring (and sing) good news! Thank you Bill and Laurie for the chance to hear a Christmas Song again. Your journey on and off the ‘shelf’ has encouraged me in profound ways.
Katherine, thanks for reading and listening—between the lines as well as lines as they stand. Your cheering along the way, as well as your journey, heartens me, again and again.
Have always loved your music…Thanks for sharing…I started my walk at calvary chapel on Nora….Listening to you two….Thank you so much….
Earl, how lovely to hear from you today! I am so glad the music blessed your walk. Wishing you the best New Year ever!
Jack walked by when I was playing this and said, “That must be Bill!” We love his voice.
Thank you for sharing that beautiful Christmas song. I pray that your Christmas went well. It was a joy to hear you both singing again.
Thank you, Gena, and Merry Christmas, you two! You were in my thoughts and prayers often this week. I’ll relay your kind words to Bill.
I can very much relate to being on the shelf for a season. I smiled when I read your question of whether we’d value the soul patina we acquire. So beautiful!
Carol, here’s to patinas, that which we’ve already acquired and that which continues to layer us with grace!
Beautiful, Laurie. One of my favorite new songs is done by Travis Cotrell, called Rong the Bells. Bells are so joyful. M
I must look for that one. Thanks for the recommendation. And Merry Christmas to you! I am enjoying your Beauty course!!
“Ring glad bells, ring” (Sing glad bells, sing!) Lord be with us, patinas, and all! Merry Christmas!
Amen, Hope your Christmas was grand, Pacia! Thanks for taking time to listen to the newly unshelved!
I’ve heard this song and loved it – didn’t know it was yours! What a Christmas blessing for you to share this. I know I join many who are dusting off gifts and talents left behind. Life is an ever changing story. Thanks so much.
Jan, I’m so glad to reintroduce it to you and grateful to know you’ve loved it. So true about gifts being coaxed forth in our lives again. Exciting! Merry Christmas!
“There’s so much more to peace on earth, good will to men”
“Between the tinsel and the holly he appears, open up your ears”
An absolutely timeless message. Thanks for unshelfing and sharing the joy… and proclaiming the coming king.
Blessings to you as you celebrate
Kristine, thank you for taking in this wonderful carol! Blessings on you and John and your sons!!
Hi Laurie:
Thank you so much for publishing Bill’s song. What a beautiful gift!
Merry Christmas to you as you celebrate our Lord’s first coming.
Linda Jo, you’re welcome! Merry Christmas, friend!
Well. This just blew me away. Had to hold on to the chair to prevent floating through the door and into the clouds. Don’t want to spoil the experience by trying to articulate the feeling.
“He’s not dead ~ He’s promised to return ~ He’s standing at the door”
Gospel. Joy.
That’s it … JOY!!
yeah , Bill
Judi, yes yes yes! I love this song—35 years old and still good news!
Laurie, your lovely metaphors are a balm to my soul….I like the idea of being’patina’ed. Thank you!
Jody, your are so welcome! Blessings on you and your family as you celebrate!!