Decorating for Christmas

After enjoying a wonderful Thanksgiving with our parents the fall decorations were soon put away and out came the Christmas boxes!  My boys always enjoy helping set up the tree and this year my youngest 2 were the most excited about doing it.

Once the decorations were on the tree then it was time to put the Christmas train around it.  My youngest likes to pretend the train delivers presents all over the place!  This year we are using an advent calendar book to remember the events leading up to Christ's birth.  Each day is it's own tiny little book that also doubles as an ornament after it is read.  Just the activity we need to keep our focus on Jesus during this busy season of giving, baking, decorating and mailing cards!

On our mantel I hang Christmas stockings from my dear friend who had them made in China when she lived there.  The boys favorite nutcrackers also hold a prized spot on the mantel.

I have several nativity scenes set up in my home but this one always makes me pause and ponder the humbleness of Christ's birth.  It was a wedding gift from my maid of honor.  While I was given several handmade gifts this one is the most unique!  Can you tell what it is made from?  The barn is actually made from birch bark.  It has moss, mushrooms and lichen attached to it.  The pen inside the barn is made from sticks as well as holding up the birch.  This creche has moved with us all over the midwest and has survived well!

How about you?  Have you gotten your decorating done?  Or do you do something else first, like write out your cards?

May your day be blessed!