Sunday, December 23, 2007

4th Sunday of Advent

Here are some images of our home right now. It is a very peaceful place to be... simple decorations. Humble little pockets of joy here and there. We've been doing our Jesse Tree; Steve reads the Bible passages each night to the boys. We've gone through the entire history of Salvation with various Bible stories beginning with Creation. Tonight was the Annunciation, tomorrow the Visitation. Christmas is the Birth of Jesus. It keeps perspective on Who Christ is and What He came for. We've been wanting to start a tradition of the kids MAKING presents for each other. I think it'll help develop their own crafting skills and it's given Steve and I nice one-on-one opportunities to work with the boys on little projects truly made with love for their brothers. Xavier and I cut out all the necessary pieces on felt for the story of the 3 Billy Goats Gruff for Leo to play out on our flannel board. And here below is the little old-fashioned walnut shell boat Leo made for Xavier (well he ate the nut anyway... and helped scoop out the inside of the shell... and he picked the color of the "sail"). It's very sweet watching the boys get inspired to make gifts.


The Jesse Tree... right before this evening's angel got put on for the Annunciation.



The Advent wreath and Christ candle that we light on Christmas Eve and put in a window sill... symbolizing He who is Light of the World.


Hearth of the home.


Infant Jesus, you said "Knock and door shall be opened, Seek and ye shall find." Sweet Lord You know what's on my heart this evening. Please be generous in Your mercy. Jesus, I trust in You. We consecrate our family to your Sacred Heart. Teach us to desire You more. To love You more. May Your blessings and grace always reign in our hearts and home. Have mercy Father...

Monday, December 3, 2007

you know you're raising boys when...

... they make a jet noise sound effect when flying an angel through the air.

... forget the Nativity Story, they take their figurines and have a death match between the three kings.



''Tis the season..." :o)