Advent

As a child Advent was not recognized by our family.  It was in regards to church and the upcoming Christmas program at school and Sunday school. But there was no chocolate a day Advent calendar or anything else. So, I love celebrating it with the boys.

Don't you find that the activities or celebrations you missed out on as a child are one's you want to create for your kiddos? Or is that just me?

Anyway, back to reality.....

Last year we marked the Advent tradition with our little wooden Advent house and in each door/drawer was a small Christmas decoration  ( I mean tiny!) or festive eraser, tattoo, etc. The boys LOVED it! W prayed every morning after checking the Advent house. He's so cute!

(photo courtesy of Pinterest-katherinemarephotography)

So, this year the house is on display, but I have wrapped 24 books for the boys to open. All in identical paper with no name noted. Surprise!

I think we may add an activity a day to our Advent traditions. A book to read and an activity to enjoy....at least 15 occupied minutes!;)

And day one of Advent was as equally thrilling as last year. W instantly knelt on his knees to pray and R kept saying, "I just love my surprise present. I love it!|

What are your Advent traditions? Do you light a candle each week? Only wear blue or purple?;)
Use an advent calendar (Lutheran tradition)? Nothing?