Almost December

I can't believe it's almost December!  In just a few short days, the countdown until Christmas in our house will officially begin.  I've been busy putting together some items for our traditional Advent celebration which as I mentioned in the previous post involves me putting a treat or item at each place setting every night and then sitting back to allowing the ensuing discussion about how the item relates to Christmas to unfold.  There are no right or wrong answers.  And rarely is there a night when I am not humbled by the amazing perspective of my children and touched by the pure sweetness of their faith.  I have loved doing this for my family over the years.  It has definitely become one of our favourite Christmas traditions. 

Let the countdown begin!!

white christmas

It's already feeling like Christmas.  The house is decorated. Yay!  The kids are practically vibrating with excitement and my to do list grows longer everyday.
This morning I'm off to get ready for advent.  Every year, I purchase small edible items that have something to do with Christmas (colour, shape, etc.)  Starting December 1st, I place one of these items at each person's place setting and a wonderful conversation ensues.  The kids love trying to figure out what the meaning is behind the treat I've chosen and how it relates to Christmas.  We've had a lot of fun doing this over the years and it has really made the Christmas season come alive in our home.
Along with anticipating Christmas, there is another theme I'd like to carry out over the advent season.  The theme of White Christmas.
It's our churches theme for our Christmas Eve Services this year and as I was looking at the invite cards yesterday I spent some time reflecting on what the words White Christmas mean. 
The colour white stands for purity and innocence.  Words that conjure up images of a new born saviour.  Perfect in every way. 
White also stands for surrender.  And this got me thinking about the colour in a different way.
What if this year, my family and I surrendered are whole hearts to Jesus. Relinquishing our agendas, our hurts, our selfishness.  Focusing only on the miracle of His birth.  With hands uplifted, receiving fully His hope, peace and love.  And then extending this precious gift to others. As snow gently covers the earth, allowing God's grace to fully cover all of us.
A White Christmas.
A measureless gift for myself, for my family, for this world.

Sweet Jesus, please bless my family with a White Christmas this year.