Inspired by a Christmas card, IAWL wasn't conceived as a Christmas movie - but thanks to its public domain status throughout the '70s and '80s, and the resulting round the clock TV airings, it has become a holiday treasure. Often perceived as lightweight 'CapraCorn,' this is actually a very powerful, thought-provoking film.

Based on a nostalgic, humorous reminiscence by master raconteur Jean Shepherd, this gem of a film posesses an irresistible spirit and familiarity that transcends generations. Oh, and it's pretty darned funny too.

It's 1965 and the world is starting to forget what Christmas is all about. Thanks to good 'ol Charlie Schulz (via Linus Van Pelt), it's given a friendly reminder, one which has resonated down through the years. A classic among classics as far as most Boomers are concerned, this one included.

We're all familiar with the poem by Clement C. Moore - this particular edition is included here for the lush, atmospheric illustrations, which capture the eons-old mystery and lore of the season.

The jazzy Vince Guaraldi soundtrack music from the animated Peanuts Christmas Special has become a classic in its own right.

A poignant remembrance of one post-WWII Christmas, this is one of my wife's favorites. A very touching story, with terrific performances all around.

Christmas in Connecticut is pleasant, breezy holiday fare; the surprise treat of this DVD is an extra, Star in the Night, a 1945 two-reeler. It's a simple, straightforward allegory, and it becomes obvious early on where the plot's headed. But whether it was the deft direction of Don Seigel or J. Carrol Naish's effectual performance (or both), I caught myself getting misty-eyed by the end.

Not a threat to crack the AFI list of 100 greatest films any time soon, the holiday season would nevertheless not be complete without at least one viewing of this appealing VistaVision showcase for the songs of Irving Berlin - including the title tune, sung by the man whose voice has given it a place on the record shelves and CD towers of 50,000,000+ homes over the last 65 years.

If you haven't already, check out the four Gospels. After all, this is really what it's all about.

Christmas Carols the way you remember them, gloriously performed - with nary a trace of extraneous, distracting vocal histrionics. Merry Christmas to all...