"Holiday... Celebrate..."

Madonna's self-titled album, "Madonna," was the first cassette tape I ever owned. I received it for Christmas in second grade, and boy, was I ever excited. Accordingly, I pretty much remember everything about that nearly-worn-out tape. The iconic album cover (left) -- featuring the soon-to-be material girl with a tightly cropped, disheveled platinum 'do, heavy black eyeliner and chunky bracelets that made you wonder if she really had forearms or wrists -- has been burned into my brain since 1983. The star's look was one every girl emulated in fine detail or broad strokes, depending on what her parents permitted. (I had some black jelly bracelets...) Furthermore, I knew and still know that album by heart. In fact, I am quite confident I could sing along to most or all of the songs, including one of its most celebrated tracks, "Holiday."

"...If we took a holiday

Took some time to celebrate 

(Come on, let's celebrate)

Just one day out of life

(Holiday)

It would be, it would be so nice

You can turn this world around

And bring back all of those happy days

Put your troubles down

It's time to celebrate

Let love shine

And we will find

A way to come together

And make things better

We need a holiday..."

What a simple, kicky song. And what a simple, relevant message. OK, I realize that sounds extra cheesy. But bear with me another moment.

Now more than ever, because of or in spite of the recession, we, the people, need a holiday. The tune of this year's November/December/January celebrations may be different than those of 2005, but the soundtrack needn't be any less joyful. Even now, there's joy to be found in togetherness (especially if we took a holiday, took some time to celebrate), there's also hope and awareness (we can turn this world around), and there are plenty of deals to be had to keep it festive (come on, it's time to celebrate).

To add a little pop to your 2009 year-end festivities, Ecosaurus recommends adding Madonna's "Holiday" to your seasonal music mix (not surprising). Furthermore, we suggest you seize the day and the available deals. Because it's time to celebrate, we are offering some great deals on our eco-friendly recycled paper products. Please check them out on our newly updated Web site. "Holiday... Celebrate..." ~ A.F.