The Third Week of Advent

Burning with our Joy inside,
Candles glow on old Yuletide,
Warmth and light beneath the flame,
Brighten as we speak His name.

Winter Berry Garland & Sneaky Squirrels

This morning we made Winter Berry Garland with popcorn and cranberries. Maia really likes "sewing" and is VERY careful with the needle (I use a yarn needle to be safe). The smaller children helped me pull the berries down the floss. It looked so pretty - we plan on hanging it outside for the birds tomorrow.

The squirrels keep on stealing the snacks we leave outside for the birds ... at least someone is enjoying them! We hung stale bagels on Grandpa's tree yesterday...

And today I spotted an imposter!

The Second Week of Advent

Slowly creeping toward the day
As the winter paves its way
Love as fresh and pure as snow
Guides us toward His loving glow

During this Second Week of Advent, we have placed our winter cati as well as a large pinecone and evergreen branches in the center of our wreath. The wreath reminds us of the circle of life and the symbols of the plant world remind us of the deep wisdom that lives within Silence.

Our Jesse Tree

The girls really enjoyed cutting and pasting the Jesse Tree Ornaments for the first week of Advent. For three more weeks, we will add ornaments to the Jesse Tree until Christmas Day. This is a new tradition for our family and I also included it in my December Guide for subscribers. The ornaments are very simple but give warmth to our little tree in the Playgarden .

First Week of Advent

Light a Candle

Light one candle Advent's here
Light one candle Advent's here
Light one candle Advent's here
Christmas time is near. (clap, clap)

Light two candles Advent's here
Light two candles Advent's here
Light two candles Advent's here
Christmas time is near. (clap, clap)

Light three candles Advent's here
Light three candles Advent's here
Light three candles Advent's here
Christmas time is near. (clap, clap)

Light four candles Advent's here
Light four candles Advent's here
Light four candles Advent's here
Christmas time is near. (clap, clap)

Creating our Advent Wreath...
Three purple candles to symbolize the penitence of the season and one Rose for the Joy and anticipation of Christmas Day.
One white candle in the center to save and light for our Christmas meal.
Lighting our first candle and saying our verse for Week One of Advent.