On the Feast of the Immaculate Conception...

This is what it looks like and sounds like at my house this morning:

A day Full of Grace.

Happy Holy Day!

 

Happy Feast of St. Nicholas!

Jolly Old St. Nicholas!  He's been on our minds a lot for the past week.  We've been enjoying reading about him and putting together a St.Nicholas lap book.  Aren't they cute?!

I'd show you the inside, but we've only done one activity so far:)
We will pick up the pace today and the rest of the week.
The two youngest of my current students are doing the lapbooks, and the oldest will be reporting on the way St. Nicholas is celebrated in different countries.

Our Advent reading is going well. And we are enjoying our Jesse Tree.  This whole decorating early thing has enhanced our season.  It's much more peaceful and the kids are very excited. Especially the 6 year old.  Apparently, she is paying close attention to our studies and reading.  Her older sister took her shopping the other day, and big girl told little girl that "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" wasn't an appropriate Christmas song because it doesn't mention the birth of Jesus at all.  Little girl looked big girl in the eyes and said, "No, but it does mention Santa, and Santa and Jesus are BFFs!"  Of course!  Who do you think the saints hang out with anyway??? 

Now, take a look at this picture.  Don't you think that boys with ginormous feet (a 9 and 12 year old, who BOTH wear a men's size 10!) shouldn't have to put their biggest shoes and boots out???  Their regular shoes by themselves hold plenty of candy. Sheesh!

We will spend some time on this fantastic website today:
St. Nicholas Center
Check it out!  Lots of information, stories and activities for young and old!!

Then, later in the week we have a Holy Day of Obligation and the Feast of Juan Diego! It is an exciting week in the Church. 
I love the Catholic Church; her rhythms and seasons bless and order our lives, and her wisdom lights our way. Deo Gratias!

Happy Advent!