During the Festive Season

 

This year was easily the least I have ever blogged. Here is it, Decemebr 30th, and I have (including this post) blogged a total of 39 times. Before this year, the lowest number of posts in this space of ours was 127 (in 2022). This isn't to say that there have not been blog worthy events that would total in the hundreds, but it does speak to how full life is with two teenagers, a full time (paid) job, my full time unpaid job (as mama of those two amazing girls), as well as life as a wife and doctoral student. In early November I ended up resigning from my job as the Director of Children's Ministry at the church in Holliston, and we have fully returned to our church home/family in Framingham. That brought with it more downtime than I have had in a long while, though that will be short lived as I move into the proposal and disseration phase of my program starting in January. 

Our December was full of wonderful traditions. The Advent Spiral, Saint Nichoas Day, Winter Solstice (my most favorite Deemebr holiday!), cinnamon roll making (and delivering), and of, course, the Christmas Eve service. It was so lovely to be there, with a pew full of my church children, all of whom have grown into the most incredible young women and men. 

The bunnies have loved sitting by the tree as much as we do, and we are all so sure that they will be very sad when the tree comes down. Truly, is there anything more relaxing than sitting by the light of the tree before the sun comes up or after it goes down? 

It was quite a year for this family of ours. But more about that tomororw. Tonight is all about getting this blog updated so that we can go into 2024 and this next chapter, fresh and ready to go! xo 

Advent Spiral

 

Another year of the Advent Spiral weaving it's magic and bringing peace to all of us during the busy holiday season. xo 

You Know You're A Waldorf Kid When.....

 

it's Advent Spiral day and you help with set up! xo

Advent Spiral Day

 

In which the girls and I bring our beloved Advent Spiral to First Congregational in Holliston (where I work) today. It was fabulous to share this tradition with them (finally!)! A much needed respite during the hectic holiday season! The Advent Spiral worked it's magic again! Looking forward to next year's Spiral already. xo 

The Advent Spiral

This past Sunday was the Advent Spiral at our church. We love how much our faith community loves and looks forward to this tradition each year. This year, we had decided to do two walkings of the Spiral. One at 4:00pm (for those that would like an earlier time) and one at 5:00pm. However, with the first snow storm of the season starting that afternoon (and lasting until mid-afternoon Tuesday) we decided that we'd push the time to 2:30pm lest there be an outcry if we canceled it. None of us were sure how many (if any) would come with the time change only being announced at worship that morning. Needless to say we were thrilled to have twenty people attend! Sure, this is a decrease from our usual amount of 60-80 but still an incredible turnout none the less! The Spiral wove it';s magic around all of us as it always does, and the snow softly falling outside only added to the magical feel. Such a beautiful and peaceful way to begin Advent and the busy holiday season. Looking forward to next year's Spiral already. xo 

This Little Light Of Mine

{This Moment} A weekend ritual. A single photo -no words- capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you are inspired to do the same leave a link to your moment in the comments section below. Wishing you a lovely rest of the weekend. xo 

On The First Sunday Of Advent

In the deep and dark wood's heart

Where moans the North Wind cold,
You will find a sun-filled cave
When you walk a spiral road.
Shimmering stars will sing above
To the crystals that glitter below,
While you draw your light from a flame so bright
Bringing warmth the sparkling snow. 

-Adventsong by Eugene Schwartz