For those of you who have ever checked out my blog posts or the Catholic Courier’s 2015 or 2016 multimedia Advent calendars, you know that I love to do crafts! I especially like crafts that will help my family count down the days to Christmas.
Last year, my sons, Joey (13) and John (11), helped me make a countdown to Christmas Advent wreath. Joey assisted me with the behind-the-scenes prep work, while John appeared in a video with me to demonstrate how to make it. Not only did they enjoy making the wreath, but they also loved the fact that they received a little treat each day of Advent. It made the season very special, and John said it was even more fun than receiving Christmas presents.
This year, I was looking for a different Advent countdown craft. During my Pinterest research, I came across some great sites that offer free Jesse tree ornaments.
I loved the idea of a Jesse tree. The boys and I will color and cut out the ornaments together, and everyone in the family will take turns reading the day’s Scripture as we all learn more about the events leading up to Jesus’ birth.
And I have just the right tree to decorate! My husband, Joe, is trying to nurse back to health a Charlie Brown-looking potted Norfolk pine that we bought last Christmas. I figured that this tree — just like the one in “A Charlie Brown Christmas” — just needs a little love and a few decorations!
How do you and your family count down the days of Advent and prepare to celebrate Jesus’ birth?
