Advent: a recap

 

 {preparing the house for Christmas}

 {a family walk}

 I took the boys to the Washington National Cathedral to get our Advent calendars and candles. We walked around the Sanctuary first, and when we entered the children's chapel, Jude said, "See Jesus! I see Jesus!" He pulled one of the little chairs up and stood on it so he could get a closer look. It was truly a religious experience for him and a wonderful one during Advent. He was also fascinated by the Creche displays and ran around to each one looking for "Baby Jesus."

 {Felix's birthday crown in the works}

My new favorite place is the Art Works Studio School. I take Henry there for clay classes on Mondays, while Jude and Felix go to the Toddler Art time on Fridays. Henry and I went to the art show/holiday party they had. Pictured here is Henry making a "bearded snowman." He also made an ornament out of corks, jingle bells, and paint that is hanging in the car. I put it there initially to dry on our way home from the party, but I just love looking at it while I'm driving so I think that's where it's going to stay. We also made several gift bags out of tissue paper and old Christmas cards. I just love spending time at this studio.

First day of Forest School. I take all three boys on Tuesdays, and just Henry on Thursdays.

We all LOVE it.

On Friday, I took the boys to the National Gallery to pick up some gifts for Dan. On our way in, we saw two police officers bringing their horses over to the fountain for a drink. What a wonderful treat for us to see!

Advent this year was definitely busier than last year - we were forced into inactivity having a newborn last December, which was such a singularly special time, having a newborn during Advent and Christmas  - but I still feel that it was generally a peaceful, and definitely joyful, preparation for Christmas.