Advent week 1

For our first advent activity this year, we decided to do something new. We had a special - and very sweet - dinner by the light of our advent calendar and candles, and talked about the coming days ahead. About Christmas and what it's really about, and also about all the fun stuff that happens around this time of the year. We ate Eggnog French Toast (recipe at bottom of post), sipped European Hot Chocolate from our favorite Anthro mugs, and threw in a few apple slices for good measure. The smell of the candles was pleasant, and I love the way the candles seem to slow the moments down. I love the way they illuminate the faces I hold so dearly. We polished off our evening by reading The Christmas Story (the little golden book edition, for starters ;) and I love that every night when we read scriptures and/or special books by candlelight the kids want to read them over again and again. They often go to bed later than they *should* because we all enjoy this time so much. 

Week One:


eyes were beholding...
Lights and Baubles on our Christmas Tree
City lights and sidewalks all decked for the holidays
an evening of Classic Christmas movies
Mama's special Nativity Scene
words read by candlelight 


ears were hearing...
The talented street corner carolers at Figgy Pudding
popcorn popping to go along with movie night
Mama & Daddy singing carols at bedtime
"You Better Watch Out..."
Two toddlers singing carols with enthusiasm
coins clanging as they bounce merrily as donations


fingers were touching...
spare cash to donate to a good cause
Squishy marshmellow for making little snowmen
The pages of favorite Christmas Stories
Lights and Baubles on our Christmas Tree :)


tongues were tasting...
Eggnog (& the French Toast version with Eggnog)
Chocolate from the Advent Calendar
Holiday goodies and treats


noses were smelling...
Christmas Scented Candles burning
gingerbread cookies baking
steamy hot apple cider

hearts were feeling...
happy...full...blessed...magical...hopeful...generous

Recipe for Eggnog French Toast

(from the Seattle Times, years ago...)

*half this recipe unless you're feeding more than 3 adults

1 TBSP butter (softened)

2 C eggnog

2 C milk

6 eggs

2 tsp vanilla

1 tsp nutmeg

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/8 tsp salt

-quality white or french bread (thick)

-maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar

enjoy!