advent.

Today marks the start of Advent ... the joyful anticipation of the birth of Jesus. I love this time of the year. I love the coziness that comes from a wintry month of preparations for our King in our homes and our hearts. I love sharing this time with my children and growing with my husband and reflecting on my God. On the heels of the gratitude of Thanksgiving, here are a few ways we will be slowing down and finding stillness this season.

Homemade Advent candles.

{favorite}

Our first Jesse Tree ornament.

A Christmas countdown pointing us toward service and giving rather than receiving.

Santa cinnamon sticks and clothespins for our Jesse Tree.

Making bicycle basket seats for their dollies out of cardboard boxes.

Peppermint hot cocoa with marshmallows.