Preparing for Christmas - Advent season

We all had a really fun time last weekend getting out the Christmas tree and decorations for the house. Surprisingly, Timo took the lead and was the most eager (and has since found very particular spots around the house where certain decorations are to be put; for example, yesterday he placed two stars in a new spot on a cabinet handle, and announced, "I'm going to put these here so they can remind us about baby Jesus whenever we look at them."). Though of course Mattias was also very excited to participate. It was fun to see him a year older and better able to handle the ornaments and take an interest in them. So far between us all we've only broken five ornaments. Not too bad.

A day or so before we had just found out that a rental house we were hoping for was taken by another rental (we were 2nd in line), so now that we know we aren't moving this month, it was time to get all the decorations out and enjoy them! True to years past, the boys have spent a lot of time every day since playing with the ornaments (particularly any figurines) and re-arranging decorations around the house.

"Another kiss from my big brother?!"

"Take  my picture with this snowman, Mommy."

Now he's ready to help open some boxes!

I didn't get a photo of these decorations, but we also put up our Advent garland (made by Jim's cousins, Wendy and Susie) with a miniature woolen mitten or hat for each day. This year I printed some verses to stick in them, and each day adds another part of the story of Jesus's birth. I also made two wreaths out of kudzu vine and greenery, and we have some candles on the table to light every Sunday for Advent. Now that we are attending First Presbyterian Church in Sylva, this is the first year in a long time that we've had an Advent wreath and more Christmas hymns during the Sunday services - and it's wonderful!! Also because now Timo is really paying attention in church, and this evening at supper he made sure we light our candles and had a great discussion about the meaning of the first two weeks.

Coming up in the next week we have a couple of Christmas parties with Jim's office and Timo's school, plus the kids' Christmas program at church next Sunday, and Timo's preschool program next Monday - so it's going to be a busy, festive time. And then next week we will be on our way to Wheaton for the break!

the next morning (hey, what are those pumpkins still doing over there?)