Anyway, let me say thanks for all the At Home suggestions and questions you've submitted during the past week. I've received many responses and they're being given careful considerations by the editorial staff for future issues.

Even though it's been slowing during the last few days, today is the day the Southern Gospel Music really begins to "put things on hold" until after Christmas. Artists who rarely get to see their extended family are criss-crossing the country, trying to pack in as much quality time before the buses head out for New Year's events. Record companies are taking "mini-vacations," publications are gearing down the computers, booking agents are looking forward to a day or two without living on the telephone.

Yes, it seems like everyone is winding down.

Well, everyone except the Southern Gospel DJ. Those stations that do not have automated systems or satellite programming still have a live person that has to baby-sit the broadcasting board. When Christmas day comes around, they'll most likely be right there at the control panel, doing exactly what they do the rest of the year. Radio never takes a day off.

So, this Christmas day, when you're listening to your local station and you hear the voice that's been on there for so long, pick up the phone and wish them a Merry Christmas. Or, send them an e-mail letting them know you appreciate their work. However you do it, just let them know that you've not forgotten them as they sit behind the microphone.

As for me, this will be the last Danny's Diary until after Christmas. I'll be on the "see-the-world-in-two-days tour" as my family and I hit the road to see people we don't get to see but maybe once or twice a year. It'll be hectic, but it'll be fun.

If you've read the December 2005 issue of Singing News by now, you know that my favorite Christmas song is "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear." As you head into your Christmas plans, let these words (not often found in modern renditions of the song) ring in your mind...

O ye beneath life's crushing load,

Whose forms are bending low,

Who toil along the climbing way

With painful steps and slow;

Look now, for glad and golden hours

Come swiftly on the wing;

Oh rest beside the weary road

And hear the angels sing.

Merry Christmas.