A few months ago, being ever so precocious, I wrote about how I wanted to find a way to keep from being glutted with Christmas before Christmas actually arrived. Well, I hope that I have found a solution to keep a steady stream of spirit going for me and my little men.
Behold our Advent Calendar!
I bought this particular felt creation from the Oriental Trading Company last year. The pockets were originally filled with little soft animals and the cast of the nativity, each with a handy bit of velcro on their backs. But building a scene night by night and leaving it for decorative purposes is not my boys’ style. Those little figures would rapidly become projectiles, chew toys, or both. So I took it another direction. I sat down and listed all of our Christmas CDs, and all of our Christmas movies. Then I took the advent reading schedule from Leann’s site. Then I cheated ever so slightly on my book fast, and perused a few Christmas issues of Family Fun for craft projects. Finally, I took a calendar and spread all of our media and activity options throughout the month like so much cinnamon sugar. Each day’s Scripture reading and activities were then dutifully written on little cards and stuffed into the pockets!
Today we read Isaiah 35 and begin playing our Christmas Favorites CD. I have to hurry and make a big shopping trip this weekend to make sure I have all the craft supplies and yummies that we will need for the days to come!
I’m particularly glad about having a schedule for the movies. I think modern technology has really stolen some thrills from our children. Remember how exciting it was to wait for the night Charlie Brown or Rudolph came on tv? (or how heart-breaking it was if you missed it and had to wait a whole ‘nother 365 days to see it?) Our kids just don’t get that. Not only can they watch the movies whenever, but they can watch them multiple times. I(I won’t even discuss the heretics who watch Christmas movies off season. That is just wrong) The special glow gets worn off by too much handling (or too many viewings) don’t you think? So this way, we have to wait. And I can tell you, it’s already torturing… me! I have my favorite CDs, and most of them don’t come into play until later in the month! Aaigh! But I think I will appreciate them more for not having started them the day after Thanksgiving and worn them out by December 15th.
What a wonderful idea!! This is our first year observing Advent. In fact, until a couple of weeks ago, I didn’t even know what it was. (My previous church never mentioned it and I never seemed to come across it anywhere else.)
I do remember so well the thrill of seeing Rudolph and Frosty every year on tv. But like your boys, my son has no idea what the big deal is, since they can now be rented or purchased to watch whenever.
Comment by laura — December 1, 2005 @ 8:37 pm
I appluad your BOOK FAST. I am very proud of you. I my self would join you, but I am not in that situation. I find that reading Gods word every morning gets me through the day. Though that isnt the only time I read the bible ( I promise I am not trying to seem arragent) I pray that you are filled in the Word of God this Christmas, ready to pour yourself into the new year. God Bless
With love
SB
Comment by Savannah — December 1, 2005 @ 8:43 pm
Hi!!! I wanted to say hi! What I have to say unfortunately does not deal with the current topic, but I wanted to see how you were doing. I have quickly skimmed your past blogs and I really loved the pictures of your small fire team there. I miss you so much at church. I am doing pretty good in school, except the “monkey-class.” That is not looking too good. But hubby made it home safely and we went to OH for Thanksgiving. I must now continue to study for a test Saturday morning at 8am. Man…a test BEFORE 11am…what is the world coming too!!
Comment by Agent S — December 1, 2005 @ 9:43 pm
What a great idea to do. My husband about had a cow over the summer when he found my kids watching Charlie Brown Christmas on video
I agree something is lost when its readily available at any given time. I am going to do an informal yet similar thing this year and plan ahead for it next year. I also am unfamiliar with advent (know it counts the days until Christmas but thats all I know) but I will do some websearching and see 
You have inspired me again! Still going on my bookfast and got some great stuff out of Philippians this morning 
Blessings, Melody
Comment by Melody — December 2, 2005 @ 10:17 am
Advent Calendar
Blest With Sons has posted about her family’s Advent calendar. Photo included. It looks like a great way to celebrate.
Trackback by Mrs. Happy Housewife — December 2, 2005 @ 12:29 pm