The winter holidays are a special and magical time, making the sounds we hear around us more meaningful and memorable. Music and movies, the sounds of the outdoors, and enjoying the company of friends and family are all an important part of this time of the year. Below is a list of a few holiday sounds that signal the time year and that we always look forward to.
The Sounds of the Season
The light whisper of crackling logs in the fireplace, the ringing of silver bells, the sound of unwrapping presents, and lively conversation around the dinner table are all things associated with this time of year. Plus, who could forget the cheerful toasts and wishes for peace and goodwill among us all?
Holiday Music
Winter festival celebrations are a joyful mix of cultural traditions from around the world carried forward from the past to today. No matter what our culture and traditions, as Americans we can be elevated to the spirit of the season with the ubiquitous classic holiday tunes. “Jingle Bells” and “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby, “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong broadcast in stores, coffee shops and in television and radio advertising. Hearing these songs can take us back to past years and special memories.
Holiday Movies
There’s something about holiday movies to further set the mood of the season. From classics to new favorites, there is nothing like gathering around with family to watch movies. It’s a Wonderful Life with Jimmy Stewart tells the story of down-on-his-luck George Bailey, who needs to be reminded by the angel Clarence just how much people need him. And don’t forget A Charlie Brown Christmas, featuring the kids from Charles Shultz’s favorite comic, a beagle named Snoopy, and a sad little tree. A very traditional story that is featured each year is A Christmas Carol, the classic Dickens tale of rich mogul Ebenezer Scrooge and his journey from “Bah, humbug!” to “God bless us, everyone.” If celebrating Christmas isn’t your tradition, there are great movie options such as Groundhog Day, a winter classic with themes of change, redemption, and caring starring Bill Murray, Gremlins which turns classic traditions into chaos. A Rugrats Chanukah is a holiday special telling the story of Judah and the Maccabees, and Dr. Zhivago an epic romance that is engaging with drama, love and betrayal all set in the backdrop of a freezing Russian winter.
Conversations with Relatives and Loved Ones
Some of the most meaningful sounds don’t come from the radio, television, or even winter characters like Frosty the Snowman. The most meaningful things we will hear during the holidays are the words and laughter of our families. Sometimes the holiday is the best or only time we get to spend with them, and that is what makes this season so special.
Remember that everyone around the table may not hear well and deserves to join in the stories and laughter. Invite guests who have difficulty hearing to sit in the center of the table to be as close as possible to all speakers. Take the time to clue those with hearing trouble into the topic of conversation when it changes and watch to make sure that clever punch lines are delivered so that everyone can hear and appreciate them.
Contact Us
If you are experiencing hearing loss, don’t let the special sounds of the holidays pass you by. We can evaluate your hearing difficulties and determine the right solutions for your specific needs. Please contact us today for a free hearing assessment and give yourself the gift of hearing this holiday season.