What It's All About
We really enjoyed our first evening of Advent, even though there were a few tears when the littlest discovered he didn’t know the words to the song we decided to teach the kids this year. He settled on humming along and we were able to console him by explaining that we have many more days ahead to learn it.
Come, Thou long expected Jesus
Born to set Thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us,
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel’s Strength and Consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear Desire of every nation,
Joy of every longing heart.
Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a child and yet a King,
Born to reign in us forever,
Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone;
By Thine all sufficient merit,
Raise us to Thy glorious throne.
by Charles Wesley
There were also some tears when the blowing out of the candle wasn’t properly orchestrated and he missed the golden opportunity. However, we ended on a good note and are looking forward to fun days ahead. Today we plan to stay at home and get the house decorated. (my growing belly seems to slow me down a bit…good thing I have some great helpers!)
Our first bag to open instructed us to open a special package from a very thoughtful aunt. This is what was inside! It’s beautiful and kind of mesmerizing.
I have a new story (new to us, anyway) for the kids to listen to today, so that will be the message in our second bag. We borrowed this from some friends, but will soon be proud owners, thanks to a certain generous grandparent!
Tulipgirl is posting about “Advent at Our House”. You can read about the first Sunday here. It’s a great explanation of the prophecy candle.
Study in Brown also has some great links to guide you in your celebrations.
I’m inspired by all the adventing. Only nervous about the greenery and candles. Emily
with reason, i imagine. it’s slightly less relaxing for moms, that’s for sure. we have to stand by with ready hands between kiddos and candles, ready to extinguish any mishaps along the way!! all my greenery is fake, because of allergies. yikes. that probably makes it even more flammable, right?!
I’m glad you found it encouraging. . . but we so didn’t do a good job blogging our Advent this year. *blush* It’s become such a special family time, though, through the years. Definitely worth the time with the family, and learning the new hymns together (for the kids, especially.) Singing with my kids is one of my favorite things, even though none of us is musical (well, except my second son. . .)
hey, tg! it’s the doing that is important…not the blogging. i am learning that. you have been instrumental in our whole advent journey–thanks! i’ve enjoyed all your past documentation, and been inspired by your thoughtful reflections.