First Sunday of Advent!

Happy First Sunday of Advent!

I love Advent.  The beginning of the church year, and there are a whole four weeks before Christmas.  No, that doesn't sound right.  There is a whole season before Christmas.  That's better.  I'm not remotely ready for Christmas.  Except the cards -- those Are ordered (yay me!).  But no presents bought, no decorations up.  But Advent is wonderful!  We listen to beautiful music (already started that Friday, because I couldn't resist), open the doors on Advent calendars, and take turns reading selections from the Bible and lighting Advent candles before dinner.  And do we have Advent wreaths this year!  Last Sunday at church they had a wreath making, candle painting event, and both Katie and Travis made wreaths.  And my wonderful mother, who is never taken by surprise by holidays, sent me fresh candles for my painted Advent candle holder.  So all our tables will look festive, and we are well set for this season, anyway. 

And here is a video of Good King Wenceslas which I found on Sister Mary Martha's blog today.  It is a great song, and also it reminds me how glad I am that I am not trudging through the bitter cold wearing a flimsy little page costume.