The beginning of December through the beginning of the New Year is an extra special time for our family. It's that time of year when our autumn celebrations come to an end and when the winter ones begin. It's that time of year when we celebrate three of the best birthdays (one of which is happening tomorrow!). It's that time of year when the holiday making begins! The weeks leading up to Christmas are very, very busy for our family but they are always filled to the tippy top with such fun, excitement and traditions.
I do believe that our favorite tradition this time of year are our advent books and activities. Every morning we gather in front of our Christmas tree to read our advent books together. Each day in December a new page is read and a new little window or door is opened to reveal something new. This year we have added two new advent calendars (thank you, Maddy!). One which we open a door to find tiny animals, trees or other forest elements which in the end will create a beautiful winter forest scene. Our other new advent activity is based on Eric Carle's Dream Snow book. Each day we open a door on this calendar to find a tiny ornament, which we place on a small tree to decorate. In the pictures above, Grace, Jack and Eve are enjoying our advent books from three different days last week. This is a tradition that my Mom started with me and oh how I love passing it down to my own children now.
2 comments:
This truly leaves an impression on children, as you mention, Rebecca. I think that it also helps them and us realize how special Christmas is. It's almost at though each day is a little present and Christmas is the really big one.
Happy days of Advent!
XOXOXO,
Memere
Isn't there just something about traditions? I find them to be such wonderful comforting memories. Jack, Eve, and Miss Eve will cherish them, too.
Spending some time each day before Christmas being excited about opening a little window or box and reading a page in a book is better than a big wrapped gift. It makes you pause and be thankful for all the little presents we have each day. Hot chocolate, paper-whites, special December treats, winter animals, birds at the feeder, cherished decorations, merry making for other...all what this season is about.
I loved reading about this, dear Rebecca. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Love, Mom
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