What fun it is to make Christmas traditions with my family. One of my favorites is going to cut our tree at Minter Farm with our dear friends Rebecca and Steve. Their sons, Zachary and David, have a blast running around and going on a hay ride with William and Vera.
This year, I was delighted to have my goofball brother, Reese, along for the fun. It was just like old times, when we came to this very same farm to cut our tree as kids.
The last 11 days, I've done something new with my kids that I hope to make a sweet tradition for years to come. With guidance from the ebook Truth in the Tinsel, we read a scripture each day that gives a piece of the Christmas story. Then, we make an ornament together to go along with that piece of the story (sometimes I improvise with the ornament idea to use the materials I have on hand in the house). "Are we going to make our ornament yet!?" I hear my 4 1/2 year old William ask throughout the day. They love it! It has been such a blessing to have a fun way for us to focus on Jesus' birth during this Christmas season.
A few of the ornaments we've made are angel Gabriel, a sun to show Jesus is the light, a bell to remember Mary's song, Mary with Christ, and a crown for Jesus the King!
Another tradition I love: advent calendars. I have always loved advent calendars. Especially when there is candy inside! The kids have enjoyed opening a door each day, and we've only had minimal meltdowns over whose turn it is to open the door (even with a treat for each of them behind the door, the role of "door opener" is apparently very important.) Note: I learned last year to put the candy in the calendar each night for the following day, rather than fill the whole thing at the start of the month - or come Dec. 2nd they'll figure it out and go ahead and try to open every door, which means tummy aches due Dec. 3rd.
Our newest guest is this vintage little elf (thanks to my mother). While part of me finds the elf on the shelf a bit... creepy, it's also a lot of fun. When the kids start to look bored and want something to do I say, "Hey! Have you seen the elf yet today?" and thus begins their search through the house to find the elf residing somewhere up high.
Christmas is a joyous time... but it can also be quite bittersweet. All of these traditions and memories are linked to the ones we love, and often times there is a loved one missed during this time of year. Justin's uncle unexpectedly passed away this past Saturday after a heart attack, and my heart aches for his wife, three children about my age, and grand kids. I think of parents who have lost a child. I think of Grandparents who have lost their spouse. May God be our comfort and bring peace this season. And let us be thankful for the blessing of those who are with us Today as we fondly remember those who have gone on before us.
Much love to you and yours.
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