Advent and Grinches?

Today was a wonderful day!  One of those days I'll look back on and smile for years to come.  One of those days where everyone got along (well, almost all day for a 6 and a 2 year old).  One of those days where I was constantly reminded of the true reason of this wonderful time of year!

Here is our day in pictures...



Our family was honored to be asked to light the Advent candle at church.  Doesn't the altar look gorgeous?  Jackson's choir also sang at both services.  They sang a beautiful song about lighting the Advent candle.  The middle school, high school, handbell and Chancel choirs performed as well.  It was an amazing service to prepare our hearts for the coming of our King!



How handsome are these two? 
After choir practice, we celebrated the second Sunday of Advent with a combined dinner, movie, discussion, and craft event.  We had a great time and got to spend it some of our favorite people - Ann, Caroline and John! 



Jackson and Caroline enjoying some pizza.  Caroline recently got those precious glasses.  I think she looks absolutely adorable.  She is a darling girl inside and out!

 

Joyful John!



I don't think anything beats the original "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas".  My heart immediately fills with joy when I hear the Whos in Whoville singing, "Dah who dor-aze, Fah who for-aze, Welcome Christmas, Bring your light".



The kids gathered on the floor for an adult/children discussion of Biblical and real-life Grinches.  King Herod was the original Christmas Grinch.  I was humbled to remember that every Grinch can be saved (like Paul and Zaccheus) and we should love the unlovable.  Encourage the Grinches because even they can change.  Not always easy, but something we should strive to do especially during this season of Love!

 

After the discussion, we made Advent wreathes. 




Thanks to Ann for snapping this picture right before Kendall had to leave the party. 
No nap + early morning + busy day + activity that required some adult help = bottom out for Kendy Kane :( 




Action shot of Ann, Caroline and John - She is the most amazing mom, ever!  Their sweet family is celebrating Advent daily with a fun activity.  I want to be her when I grow up - I am so blessed by her friendship!!!



Seriously, can they be any cuter?  Mamas watch your daughters!



Our finished wreath - the greenery smells so good!!!  We are truly blessed to go to a church that cherishes children and builds a foundation for them to grow into adults that love and serve the LORD.  Jackson will always remember making this wreath - we will have to start making a real one every year.



Caroline putting the finishing touches on her wreath.  Jackson and Caroline were so cute pointing out bare spots to each other and giving advice.  I'm really glad they have each other!



I wonder what's in this HUGE stack of presents?



Why, these three of course!  Don't think I could think of a better present!

 

Jackson lights the second candle of Advent - the "candle of preparation".
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE reading each day's devotional with him.  Sadly, sister fell asleep before we left the church and didn't get to hear tonight's verse and story. 



Sleep in Heavenly Peace...

Verse of the day -

⁴ As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet:
   “A voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
   make straight paths for him.
⁵ Every valley shall be filled in,
   every mountain and hill made low.
The crooked roads shall become straight,
   the rough ways smooth.
⁶ And all people will see God’s salvation.’” Luke 3:4-6

Blessings,
Kelli