Christmas Treasures - Lessons from Mary

 

As we get closer to Christmas our thoughts turn towards Jesus' birth. Over the years I have considered different parts of the Nativity. Often wondering what it would have been like for each of the people involved.  There are many wonderful picture books written from a different perspectives. All of which still choke me up year after year at the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

This year as I have been wrapped up in the middle of writing a devotional book for mothers, a single verse stuck out in the book of Luke. 

"But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:19

 

My mind has been focused this year on the connection between our relationship with God and how that is reflected in our relationship with our children.

Here we see Mary soaking in everything that has been going on around her. Remembering most likely her visit with the angel Gabriel, her miraculous pregnancy, Jesus birth, and the visit with the shepherds. So much to take in all at once especially having just given birth, and in a stable! God had come down and touched her life very personally. He was real and faithful in His promises. So Mary treasured this moment in her heart. There were no iPhones around to snap a photo. Mary could not even grasp the magnitude of all that had happened. But she knew it was a special moment and this was an incredibly special baby.

As a mom I can relate to Mary. The miracle of birth, even in all the chaos that follows, amazes us as we hold our precious new born. These treasured moments connect us to our little one and the One who created this little miracle.

In the busyness of life do you still take time to treasure moments and think about them?

Do you stand in awe of all God has done in your life? 

Do you pause during your day to be present with your children? 

To savor the moment and take a picture in your mind. There is so much more to remember than a photograph can show. The feelings, the events surrounding that moment and the significant meaning of it all. Some times as mothers we get caught up in the details of life, our to-do lists and work. Time passes all too quickly and we realize we rely on Facebook memories to remember special events in our lives.

Take a lesson from Mary. This Christmas I encourage you to take the time to thank God for all the blessings in your life. Consider the magnitude, wonder and events of the first Christmas. Worship Jesus, who came personally into the world to rescue, love and forgive us. And be sure to pause in the midst of your festivities to enjoy being with your kids. Treasure all these things. Store them in your heart and think about them.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 

Matthew 6:21

Merry Midwinter (First day of Winter activities)

The first day of winter has been celebrated for centuries. Many different religions and beliefs have their own festivals and traditions. 

How do you celebrate the first day of winter?

We like to acknowledge winter, the coming of spring and also tie it in to Christmas which is only a few days from the Winter Solstice. 

Here are some activities you may wish to incorporate.

Nature Story:

Midwinter in the Forest by Meaghan Jackson

Christopher is a little brown squirrel who lives high in an oak tree. Below him, at the base of the tree, is his good friend Gareth a kind and gentle toad. Gareth hibernates for the winter along with many other forest creatures. Many birds have also migrated south to warmer locations. 

The air was chilly when Christopher woke up. He snuggled deeper into his warm nest and pulled a soft piece of moss around him. Finally, he got out of bed and had a good breakfast of warm acorn coffee and walnut bread. He was very excited because today was the first day of winter. Many of his forest friends would be celebrating that afternoon. They did not have to wait until evening as today would be the shortest day of the year and the sunset in the later afternoon. Christopher had noticed the moon was out even in the middle of the day.

After checking on his nut stores, the little squirrel went into his living room and pulled a glass jar from the cabinet. Carefully covering the jar in glue and tissue had crafted a beautiful lantern and left it to dry. He would need it later that afternoon. Then he spent some time in the kitchen baking cookies for the celebration. Spiral cookies took a lot of work, but it was a job he happily took on whilst singing Christmas carols. 

When he arrived at the clearing, Christopher noticed that the deer had already cleared away the leaves. Henry, the badger, had begun laying pine bows in a spiral shape. Christopher hadn't seen as much of Henry lately and was happy to help him complete the solstice spiral. Some birds brought in berries and bits of holly to add to the spiral. As the sun began to sink lower in the sky, Christopher could see lights twinkling among the trees like little stars, only they were moving towards the clearing. In little groups, more forest animals came to join them holding lanterns. Mrs. Fox had a basket of muffins and Abigail the grey rabbit looked as though she was carrying a large thermos and cups.  All the food was carefully placed on some flat rocks nearby.

A large barn owl called for attention. He welcomed the forest animals to the Midwinter celebration and said a prayer of thanksgiving. One by one they walked reverently towards the centre of the circle, placed their lantern in the spiral, and walked back out. Christopher thought about all his blessings on the way in, and how thankful he was for Jesus on the way out. The spiral was beautiful and lit up the whole clearing.

Afterward, everyone ate and wished each other well. Some animals would see each other in a few days for Christmas celebrations. Others they would see again at NewYears.  A few sleepy critters had woken only to greet their friends and would go back to hibernate until the spring.

The forest animals would continue to check in on each other over the winter to make sure that everyone had what they needed by way of warmth and food. That evening, Christopher walked home with a happy heart, grateful for all his friends.

Poems: 

The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper 

And so the Shortest Day came and the year died 

And everywhere down the centuries of the snow-white world 

Came people singing, dancing, 

To drive the dark away. 

They lighted candles in the winter trees; 

They hung their homes with evergreen; 

They burned beseeching fires all night long 

To keep the year alive. 

And when the new year’s sunshine blazed awake 

They shouted, reveling. 

Through all the frosty ages you can hear them 

Echoing behind us — listen! 

All the long echoes, sing the same delight, 

This Shortest Day,

 As promise wakens in the sleeping land: 

They carol, feast, give thanks, 

And dearly love their friends, 

And hope for peace. 

And now so do we, here, now, 

This year and every year. 

Merry Midwinter From the The Secret Staircase, 1983 Brambly Hedge

‘When the days are the shortest, the nights are the coldest,
The frost is the sharpest, the year is the oldest,
The sun is the weakest, the wind is the hardest,
The snow is the deepest, the skies are the darkest,
Then polish your whiskers and tidy your nest,
And dress in your richest and finest and best…’
For Winter has brought you the worst it can bring,
And now it will give you
The promise of Spring!

Art appreciation: 

The Shortest Day by Carson Ellis 

Mid Winter Sunset by Joseph Farquharson

Picture books: 

Winter Solstice picture books

Brambly Hedge – The Secret Staircase by Jill Barklem 

First day of Winter by Denise Fleming

The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper

The Shortest Day by Wendy Pfeffer

Baking:

Bake bread in the shape of a sun

Spiral cookies

Yule log cake

Eat dinner by candle light

Nature:

Track the sun rise and sun set times this week then compare them to the summer solstice. 

Look for signs of winter

Notice shadows

Make an advent spiral

Have a bonfire 

Craft: 

Lanterns

Make candles

Advent spiral 

Creative: 

Paint with yellow 

Explore spiral shapes

Trace shadows

Game: 

Shadow tag

Tag in the dark with flashlights

Shadow puppets

Science:

Shadows

Winter solstice explanation 

Song: 

In the bleak midwinter by H Darke

Bible:

For behold, the winter is past; the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. Song of Solomon 2:11-12 ESV 

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”  John 8:12 ESV

I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness. John 12:46 ESV

Parenting:

This may be a good opportunity to teach or be aware of reverence. 

Explain that some events are times of thoughtfulness and respect. You may wish to practice going on a reverent walk. If your child isn't sure what to think about, perhaps suggest they think of things they are thankful for.

In the months ahead your family may find you are spending more time inside. Be prepared, don't let cabin fever set in. 

• Think of fun ways to keep active both inside and out. 
• Make a list of activities you can easily prep for those longer evenings and bored days. 
• Connect with others
• Eat well
• Get outside if possible
• Keep a strong rhythm and routine
• Possible add in some fun days
• Plan special time or monthly dates with your children

More activities:

https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/winter-solstice-activities-kids/ 

 

https://www.backwoodsmama.com/2017/12/7-wonderful-ways-to-celebrate-winter-solstice-with-kids.html

How to Avoid Holiday Overwhelm and Burnout

The Holiday Season has arrived and with this crazy year of COVID-19 and social distancing, it is even more important than ever to care for your mental health.  Lets take a look at how to avoid Holiday overwhelm and burnout.

Here is another article I wrote about Holiday Meltdowns

And one on holiday meltdowns

I've included journaling and reflection questions for you to think about. These are meant to help guide you towards a more joyful peaceful holiday season.

Values and Priorities 

What holiday/celebrations are you wanting to plan for? 

What are your favourite holiday memories? 

Ask your kids about their favourite memories and what they are looking forward to? What are your top activities you want to include? 

Make a must do list and a nice to have list 

Reflect:

What are your priorities this season? (health, connection, faith, mental health, fun) What are your values? 

Overwhelm and Burnout

What causes you the most problems each year around the holidays? 

What are you anticipating to be your biggest struggles this year? 

The most common thing is burn-out. Moms put so much work into making this big elaborate holiday and end up disappointed or feeling sick afterwards. 

1. Limiting beliefs or what we tell ourselves. All the I shoulds and I have to. Let's change to I choose to or choose not to because… 

2. Over scheduling 

3. Self care is forgotten so make it a priority

4. Be at peace with simple, effective and joyful 

Reflect:

What is your list of I should, I have to? Rewrite the list with I choose to, or I choose not to. Take a look at your calendar does it reflect your values and priorities?

Creating a closer connection with your family 

So often the holiday season turns in to a bank account drain, anxiety about gifts and a lack of gratitude/thanksgiving. Remember the real reason for the season, what are your values and priorities. If connection or quality time is high on your list then make sure your calendar and budget reflect that. Look back at your lists from above. What are your big things you are aiming for this season? 

Kids really want you the most. How can you give of yourself and create connection? 

1. calendar of activities (I have a free one for my subscribers)

2. have a theme for the month 

3. create special traditions or rituals 

4. decide what your gifts will be and your mindset towards giving 

5. choose things most of you will find enjoyable 

6. Keep it simple. You can't do it all 

 

Reflect:

What activities do your family enjoy doing most this time of year? What is NOT going on the list?

What are your obligations for work, school, family events?

What traditions, activities, themes etc. do you want to include? Keep it simple.

What is your mindset towards gift giving? 

Boundaries and Meltdowns 

Okay these are two huge topics. I really encourage you to reach out to me if you want to figure out what you will say, write scripts, and roll play if that helps. 

What are your biggest struggles with boundaries and meltdowns/ attitude/ behaviour over the holiday season? 

Boundaries are important. It does take a lot of work sometimes to see both people’s point of view, honour needs and create compromise if possible. But ultimately this is your family and you are in charge of what you let into your lives. 

Remember you are modeling for your children what healthy adult relationships are like. Not everyone has the perfect life, so let’s get real. There are people who are going to push the limits. You need to decide which battles you will take on. Where do you draw the line? 

Pray, get a partner or family on board and be consistent and bold. Brave even. Be sure to respectful and gentle when dealing with others.

 

Meltdowns: Be consistent and keep it simple. Here are some areas to focus on

• Sleep 
• Eating 
• Exercise 
• Expectations 
• Rhythm 
• Overload (crap, toys and such)

• 

During a meltdown 

• Remember this isn’t an emergency 
• You have the right to your feelings (don’t feel bullied) 
• You are the parent, you handle it your way 
• Offer empathy 
• Create or find a safe space 
• Listen to your child 
• Understand that emotions are extra high this time of year 
• Regulate your emotions 
• Try to be consistent from how you are at home in dealing with a meltdown if you are out somewhere 
• Ignore the stares and comments

Reflect: Write about your biggest struggles. Start to craft a plan including what you’ll say.

Success and mindset  

You won’t see change if you don’t do the work.  

What is your vision of success? 

What is your new plan for the holidays? 

Choose Joy

Focus on the bigger picture rather than the small details 

Remember the reason for the season 

Reflect:

What more do you need to work on practically and mentally?  

What questions do you still have? 

What areas are you stuck? 

What is your new mindset? 

What are you going to do to keep that positive mental attitude? 

I wish you all peace and joy this season. 

Huge List of Christmas Countdown Ideas

Anticipation is mounting for Christmas day. Many families like to countdown the days until Christmas in a special way. Advent calendars are hugely popular and there are many other ways to count down...

Christmas Countdown Ideas

1. Treats in a store bought or homemade advent calendar
2. Small items in a store bought or homemade advent calendar
3. Notes of appreciation or love notes
4. Quotes and verses in an advent calendar
5. Holiday surprises (Sparkle stories has a wonderful Holiday Magic series) this involves receiving a daily hidden note with an activity to do.
6. Audio story countdown (Sparkle Stories has several that we enjoy)
7. Wrap 25 books to read one each day
8. Hang a special ornament on your tree each day
9. Jesse Tree - Reading parts of the Bible from Genesis to Jesus
10. Paper chain
11. Move the nativity figures closer to the manger scene
12. Advent Spiral
13. Do a different activity each day as an alternative to treats in your advent calendar. This could involve family activities, crafts, outings, movies and more.
14. Acts of kindness (donate, serve, volunteer, give, help, surprise)
15. Read a portion of the nativity story
16. Learn a new fact around a Holiday theme (check out our unit study ideas)
17. Watch a Christmas movie each day
18. Add pieces to a photo or scene each day
19. Reverse advent by collecting one item to donate each day

What my family is doing

Our family has a nativity set up and a pathway leading to the manger. Each day Mary and Joseph move closer. One each of the Sundays of Advent we add more to the scene. Week 1 rocks and minerals, week 2 plants, week 3 animals, week 4 people. We love seeing the display build up over the month. All the pieces have been lovingly made over the years by the boys and myself or purchased from very special markets.

We really do slow down on homeschooling in December but I like to make sure our focus in on Jesus. I have so many great theme ideas, so I asked the boys to vote on what they'd like to learn about.  This year we are learning about the different symbols you might see around the holidays. We will learn about one symbol a day along with some activity that relates (sort of, hopefully).

Below is a list of what I'm doing with my boys. It isn't in too much detail but there are links to some pages and my Pinterest board. If you'd like to hear more send me a message or follow us on social media.

Symbols of Christmas

Advent 1 – Rocks and minerals – Read part of nativity story 

Last day of November surprise note about our December theme and adventure 

 1. Candy cane – Luke 2:8 also story of Candy Cane, Jesus is our Shepard – candy cane experiments, hook candy canes game 

 2. Wreath – John 19:2 – Crown on Jesus’ head, God’s love never ends -make a wreath 

 3. Angels – angels appeared in several places in Nativity story – make angles out of nature

 4. Candles – Luke 1:79 – Jesus is the light of the world – make candles, go out to see lights 

 5. Bells – ring out to announce the coming of the Lord – play with all our musical instruments

 6. Advent 2 – Add nature, keep reading nativity story

 7. St. Nicholas – Fun symbol, read Santa story book, leave surprises in shoes, leave surprise treats for friends too 

 8. Holly – Matthew 26:28 Blood of Jesus, sharp like the crown, gather nature to decorate house  

 9. Fir tree – John 3:16 Represents eternal life and points to God – set up the tree 

 10. Star – Matthew 2:2 Star above Bethlehem – make origami or paper stars 

 11. Colours – red is blood of Christ, green is everlasting, gold symbol of royalty – art work, get out all our supplies, sensory bin

 12. Caroling – Luke 2:13-14 – listen to music- watch video about story behind a song, dance party 

 13. Advent 3 – add animals, read about shepherds in nativity story

 14. Christmas Crackers – read about them, how are they made, buy or make some. 

 15. Ornaments – make some ornaments, 

 16. Cookies and food – make cookies, try some Christmas food from a bakery 

 17. Cards – read about cards, make cards for friends 

18. Poinsettia – tell story of poinsettia, visit garden centre 

 19. Gifts – Matthew 2:11 – gift of the magi – wrap presents and go shopping 

 20. Advent 4 – Add people, read about Jesus

 21. Spiral, Winter – make our own spiral, read about spiral, maybe invite friends 

 22. Mistletoe  - read, find some silly Christmas games - new game  

23. Nativity scene – watch a movie, read a different perspectives 

 24. Stockings – tell a story about stockings, set out ours, Christmas eve gift to open

What does your Advent calendar or holiday count-down look like?

For more ideas check out my Pinterest board 

Holiday Season Unit Study Ideas

Many families slow down on their school work over the holiday season. But you don't need to completely stop (unless you want to, which is totally okay too). Here are some fun themes you could learn about or play around with. How deep you go is really up to you. You could even incorporate these themes into an advent calendar.

Holiday Season Themes

1. Different Names of Jesus or God

2. Holiday book novel study

3. Different winter celebrations and holidays

4. Holiday traditions around the world

5. Winter weather unit

6. Animal adaptations and how they survive (including hibernation, migration and adaptation)

7. Holiday symbols and what they represent

8. Study the story or history behind select Christmas carols

9. Christmas or holiday foods from around the world

10. Children's picture books, book study or even write your own

11. Jesse Tree - move through the bible from Genesis to Jesus

12. Character study of different people from the Nativity

Where to get materials? 

I'm not affiliated to any special sites. I keep it really simple and use what I find online. Others have put a lot of thought and work into creating fabulous materials. Sometimes I'll get a flash of inspiration and come up with my own ideas. I'm not one for spending too much on new curriculum or books but these are sites we like:

Teachers Pay Teachers

Pinterest

YouTube and Google

Local Library

This year I asked my boys what they wanted to learn about. After choosing their favourites from the list we settled on Christmas symbols and their meanings. You can Check out my Pintrest Board Here.

What activities do you do for a Holiday Unit?

This really depends on your own personal goals and priorities for the Holiday Season. I always recommend keeping things simple and focused on creating connections.  That said there are lots of activities you could include depending on your theme:

• Reading books
• Watching related videos
• Write a story
• Cooking or baking related to the theme
• Crafts
• Art projects
• You may find math activities
• Madlibs
• Writing prompts
• Getting physically active
• Sensory play
• Games
• Telling others about what you learn in some way

What is our family doing?

Below is a list of what I'm doing with my boys. It isn't in too much detail but there are links to some pages and my Pinterest board. If you'd like to hear more send me a message or follow us on social media.

Symbols of Christmas

Advent 1 – Rocks and minerals – Read part of nativity story 

Last day of November surprise note about our December theme and adventure 

 1. Candy cane – Luke 2:8 also story of Candy Cane, Jesus is our Shepard – candy cane experiments, hook candy canes game 

 2. Wreath – John 19:2 – Crown on Jesus’ head, God’s love never ends -make a wreath 

 3. Angels – angels appeared in several places in Nativity story – make angles out of nature

 4. Candles – Luke 1:79 – Jesus is the light of the world – make candles, go out to see lights 

 5. Bells – ring out to announce the coming of the Lord – play with all our musical instruments

 6. Advent 2 – Add nature, keep reading nativity story

 7. St. Nicholas – Fun symbol, read Santa story book, leave surprises in shoes, leave surprise treats for friends too 

 8. Holly – Matthew 26:28 Blood of Jesus, sharp like the crown, gather nature to decorate house  

 9. Fir tree – John 3:16 Represents eternal life and points to God – set up the tree 

 10. Star – Matthew 2:2 Star above Bethlehem – make origami or paper stars 

 11. Colours – red is blood of Christ, green is everlasting, gold symbol of royalty – art work, get out all our supplies, sensory bin

 12. Caroling – Luke 2:13-14 – listen to music- watch video about story behind a song, dance party 

 13. Advent 3 – add animals, read about shepherds in nativity story

 14. Christmas Crackers – read about them, how are they made, buy or make some. 

 15. Ornaments – make some ornaments, 

 16. Cookies and food – make cookies, try some Christmas food from a bakery 

 17. Cards – read about cards, make cards for friends 

18. Poinsettia – tell story of poinsettia, visit garden centre 

 19. Gifts – Matthew 2:11 – gift of the magi – wrap presents and go shopping 

 20. Advent 4 – Add people, read about Jesus

 21. Spiral, Winter – make our own spiral, read about spiral, maybe invite friends 

 22. Mistletoe  - read, find some silly Christmas games - new game  

23. Nativity scene – watch a movie, read a different perspectives 

 24. Stockings – tell a story about stockings, set out ours, Christmas eve gift to open

No matter what you choose for your focus this season I do hope it is full of Joy and Peace.

Summer Reading Challenge

Let's kick off this summer with something fun for the kids to do. This summer I wanted to encourage my boys to keep reading. 

My oldest loves to read and always has a new book on the go. My middle son prefers to read manuals rather than stories. His reading had definitely improved this year and he is feeling so proud. And our youngest is enjoying learning his letter sounds and tries so hard to write like his big brothers. He loves to pour over comic books and picture books with great interest. So why not keep that passion going throughout the summer months.

Lets do a summer reading challenge!!

When you decide to start any kind of challenge there are two things that you need to do. The first is to have a clear goal or end point. Otherwise you will loose interest quickly. You could come up with a goal for the family or each individual child.

For a reading challenge you may wish to track one of these or make up your own:

• the number of books read
• a set ending date
• a certain number of hours you read
• the number of pages you read

The second thing you need to keep motivated is a reward at the end to celebrate all your hard work. Now each family is unique and different so you'l have to determine what works best for you.

How about.....

• A book themed party
• Trip to the book store or a new book
• Sweet treats
• Special outing
• Movie night based on a book
• New toy
• Zoom call with friend and family to celebrate
• Create your own trophies and have an award ceremony
• Make a certificate

In order to track all our reading I have created several printable that your family might find helpful. These can all be downloaded FREE by signing up for the Joyful Mud Puddles Newsletter. You'll gain access to all my freebies. (see the sign up at the bottom of this post)

I can't wait to see what your family does for this challenge. Post your pictures and share your celebrations with us on the 

Joyful Mud Puddles Facebook Page

For more support in your parenting journey follow me on Facebook and Instagram @joyfulmudpuddles and join my Parenting Support Group on Facebook

Our Week: Happy Easter

Happy Easter!!

We've been up to lots over the last two weeks.  The weather has been all over the place.  The boys have been enjoying some spring sunshine.  We've also been getting ready for Easter.

The boys passed another level of swimming.  They are very proud and have been doing so well.

Almost daily MJ has been making farms out of paper, stickers, cardboard and everything. He loves to recreate farms and tractors with lots of details.  TJ too has been joining us in our creative times.  He is very interested in the Mars rovers.  I love his attention to details.  He is sure to show which ones are still working.

TJ has been practicing reading with everyone who comes by.

One night TJ asked how many letters were in the alphabet.  He wanted to count them all.  My husband was so wonderful in his approach.  TJ wasn't sure how to get started. Daddy helped by writing out the alphabet with spaces for TJ to write all the numbers.  Later we practiced writing in secret codes.

We had a wonderful time visiting the local nature centre with my mom and the boys together.  They had a fabulous frog exhibit.  We say all sorts of different frogs, and had some interactive fun.

On Palm Sunday we didn't quite make it to church, so the boys and I organized our own family service.  TJ helped with the order of service and the craft (he helped us to make palm leaves), MJ did the music and I read from the children's bible.

I've been trying to get the boys outside a lot more now that the weather is getting better.  TJ tried his stilts and is always on his bicycle.  MJ loves the mud and dirt.  He is constantly digging.  There is no point trying to clean their coats and splash pants.  I just wait till they dry and get the kids back out again.  

We dyed hardboiled eggs with a kit I got last year from the dollar store.  Oh the boys were having so much fun!

TJ and I also went to the church up the street to do the Stations of the Cross activities they had set up.   We had such a lovely time.  TJ has a tender heart and was very insightful and sensitive as we moved through the stations.

We love going to the forest in our front yard.  The boys enjoy noticing changes in the seasons and visiting familiar spot.  We went to a spot with an awesome hill/pit for the boys to climb in.  They had an awesome muddy time.

We planted our seedlings.  The boys chose which veggies they each wanted and enjoyed planting the seeds.

TJ also made it halfway to his reading goal!  25 books hurray!!  With each book, TJ gets stronger and more confident in his reading skills.

We went with our outdoor playgroup to the lake front.  The children were so enthralled with the swans, geese, and ducks.

Later we heard the ice cracking and melting.  The children were so excited to see the ice pushing up on the shore. We explored outside for more than two hours!

I am thrilled that the weather is finally starting to warm up.  I feel that getting outside has been a huge difference for all of us.  I have had the sense recently that we are all getting on each other's nerves.  I'm hopeful that patients, better communication and such will continue to improve.  The boys are getting older and we are all getting used to these new stages for everyone.  

We have more projects and interests coming up. I can't wait to share with you.

What have you been up to??

Our Week: December week 1

It's December already!!!  The holiday music is on, our house is decorated and we are loving this season.  Thank you for join us to see what we are doing to celebrate advent this year. 

On the weekend we set up our advent table.  You can read more about that here.

After we set up our table, MJ took most of the items off to use for his farm.  TJ got out his cardboard nativity scene he was given a few years ago... MJ became jealous that everyone had a nativity set except him.  So I suggested he make one.  Isn't his baby Jesus adorable!  All the people are toilet rolls and the sheep are egg cartons.

MJ's farm has been out all week and has seen much action.  First he had all our nature table decorations on it with rocks and cards.  He added some peg people to make a nativity along with many animals.  The top right photo is God and Jesus in the clouds that he added in.  I just love to hear his stories.  I think we need to bring that back to our rhythm.

Our advent activities this week went well. Day 1 was to set up our Christmas tree, Day 2 was to decorate glass ornaments, Day 3 was to make cardboard Christmas trees, Day 4 was to write a letter to Santa and Day 5 was to visit Santa and the Train display.

The boys filled glass ornaments with coloured sand, feathers, paint and glitter.  My plan for the trees was to use recycling or paint chips.  TJ had a larger tree in mind which we were able to accommodate.  Our playroom/homeschool room is the first room you walk into at our house.  We set it up this way because it is the most used room.  Now it is the only festive area in the house.  We have at least 4 Christmas trees in here and a few nativities!

I needed a quick distraction at some point during the week.  I remembered I had bought some things for provocations (invitations to play/learn).  A very simple geoboard made of a cork board, push pins and elastics has kept the boys enthralled for a few days.  I hope to demonstrate a few more ideas to show the to keep the idea going.

I noticed once MJ was playing with his Thomas alphabet cards.  He was putting them into his train bucket.  When I inquired he showed me that he had put all the cards with train tracks on them into the train bucket.  The rest remain in the original box.  Later he made a track to play with out of his alphabet cards (only the ones with tracks on them).

Only a few days into the month and our family Christmas tree has lost half of it's decorations.  We only have glass balls and a few special ornaments left.  MJ has been decorating his small tree with everything he could, including a few new ones that he made.

Oh TJ I love your creative imagination!!  He came to us all excited and invited MJ and I to a party he planed in his bedroom.  We followed the sign to the party, which was for his pillow!  TJ had a special toy area for the babies (our stuffed friends) that were being cared for by another toy.  His large frog was helping man the snack area.  TJ even made us each a pinata.  We played games, sang to his pillow and open gifts which he had wrapped up for the occasion.  It was an adorable fun time. 

This week the weather was nicer and we were all feeling better.  I was thankful for some lovely walks in the forrest.  I am looking forward to inviting some friends next week to join us.

At the end of the week we joined one of TJ's friends at the local garden/nature centre.  They have a great train display and crafts set up.  In the evening you could visit Santa's Cabin at the end of a nicely lit path. The boys wrote a quick note to Santa while they lined up.  This is our first year meeting Santa as the boys were not interested before.  TJ was more reserved but joined in when he saw how friendly Santa was with MJ.  Santa asked what they'd like this year and then asked if he would also bering a few surprises.

MJ's note:

Dear Santa,

I love you.  You're the best.

TJ's note: 

Dear Santa, 

I hope you have a wonderful Christmas.

Next week as more fun planed.  Please share what you've been up to......

Our Advent Plans for 2014

We are all getting very excited to set up our advent table on the weekend!  This is our advent table from 2012.  No idea where my photos are from last Christmas.  Each week we add a new element to our table (minerals, plants, animals, people) and tell some advent stories.  Our nativity family follows the star path towards the centre or stable depending on how we set it up.  On the back of each star is an activity for the day.

Here is our list of activities for this year:

Sunday: Advent week 1 story and set up advent table.

1. Set up Christmas tree

2. Decorate some glass ornaments

3. Make some cardboard Christmas trees

4. Write letter to Santa

5. Visit train display at local nature centre

6. Visit animals and activities at local garden store

7. Advent week 2, Cousin's birthday party

8. Homeschool Christmas part

9. Talk about Christmas star and do star craft

10. Do a kind act for someone

11. Nature Christmas crafts

12. Special movie night

13. Christmas baking

14. Advent Week 3, Christmas event at local heritage village

15. Sing Christmas carols

16. Make ginger cookies

17. Deliver cookies for friends and neighbours

18. Angel crafts or salt dough ornaments

19. Homeschool Christmas Party (another one)

20. Make gifts for family

21. Advent week 4, kids singing in church service

22. Shaving cream dough fun 

23. Bake birthday cake for Jesus

24. Visitors, Special family evening together (movie and a gift)

We also want to see the lights one or more nights, read lots of Christmas books, and make gifts for each other.  Those things I'll fit in where ever it works.

Here are a few of our favourite Christmas books:

I can't wait to hear about what you are doing for advent.  Please do share!!