Advent is defined as "an arrival that has been momentously awaited". What do your days look like leading up to Christmas? Are you slooooowing down awaiting the day of Christmas? Are you celebrating love and joy, peace and provision?
Or, like many Americans, is this season filled with semi-dread and harriedness. Do you have 17 lists going in order to keep all of your committments and desires straight? Is decorating a chore to get through?
Well–I completely understand. This is the first year my children have really "gotten it" as far as the magic of Christmas. However, since they are just beginning to recognize this holiday–I want to gear their hearts towards the Lord while they are still learning. So maybe you'll come with me through the month as I let you know of the things we do to slooooow down and anticipate the joys of the Christmas season.
It will be the 25 Day of ADVENT[ure] around the Twig house–and I hope you'll journey through it with us. Somedays will include crafts, some just a short story, some Scripture, some traditions, and even some organizational hints. Overall, I want to spend these days of anticipation turning my heart towards the Lord in celebration of the real reason for Christmas…all while enjoying the magic and cheer of the season as well.
Soooo…away we go!
It is said that 90 percent of pleasure is the anticipation. Don't we know this to be true? Things are sweeter when they are savored. So why don't you start today by creating some cheer in your home. Start by setting the tone and mood of the place you spend most your time. For me–that means lighting up a pine-scented candle and listening to Christmas music. It helps ready my heart for the days to come–getting excited about the season rather than stressed about the days to come.
Do something small today to signify the start of Christmastime.
Since my four year old awoke to a dusting of snow, he exclaimed "Mama, it's Christmas today!". I gently explained to him that it was even better…it is now Christmastime! A whole season to savor the joy and wonder of Christmas.