Traditions - Advent

I know I say this a lot but I really enjoy and cherish seeing things through my kids eyes.  Christmas is taking on a new look for my kids.  They are finding out what the real meaning of Christmas is all about.  They have always known it is Jesus' Birthday but they are enjoying learning about the Story in more detail.  We have done advent for 4 years now.  Each year is different due the kids age and attention span.  We TRY to do advent Monday, Tuesday, and Sunday. 

So what have we learned this year
Advent  – the Coming
Round Wreath is a symbol of Gods love, is no ending
1st Sunday candle is Hope that comes with God's son
2nd Sunday candle is Jpy that comes with having a relationship with Christ
3rd Sunday Candle is Peace that comes with eternal life through Christ
Every night we light the candles, read the story of Jesus' Birth from Luke, and we learn the song Away In A Manger.  We also have LOTS of "Countdowns" to December 25th.  I have 25 mittens strung in my kitchen window with a different Bible verse that we read everyday.  I have wooden heartts that you hang on a plate, a manger scene that you add pieces to every day, a magnetic mager scene, and a chocolate Advent Calendar.
Sundays we do crafts or projects.  We made angels with hands and feet, and snowflakes.  We mailed a love one a paper hug.  Next Sunday we are making a cake for Jesus' Birthday.
We take a field trip every year to see the lights on 109.  We went with some sweet friends the Berry.
We love sharing this family time with friends.  So if you are ever in the area, stop by.  You never know what God will share us through the eyes of children.