When considering Christmas traditions, I can't help but think of books! Books make up a big portion of our advent festivities. When the boys were younger, each year I wrapped up 24 individual Christmas-themed picture books in gift wrap and numbered each one. I placed them in a book basket, and beginning on December 1, the boys selected a new book each day. They got to enjoy the fun of unwrapping it, and together we snuggled on the couch while reading its pages. It was a very fun and memorable way to count down the days till Christmas. While we own several Christmas-themed stories, we didn't own 24 of them, so I checked out additional titles from our local library. Needless to say, this is a cheap (free?) way to build memories, excitement, and traditions throughout the month of December...
These days, our daily advent readings come from a terrific trio of books by Arnold Ytreeide. Though we've now read them multiple times, these books are as exciting and captivating today as they were the first time we read them. This year we're reading "Bartholomew's Passage" again, but we've also read "Jotham's Journey." There is also a third book in the series called, "Tabitha's Travels." Each daily reading tells an unfolding, spellbinding story of suspense which ultimately leads to Jesus' birth in Bethlehem. It closes with some devotional thoughts and questions for application.What Christmas books are you reading with your family this month? Which are your favorites?
4 comments:
I'm really enjoying reading about your traditions. I wish I'd started more traditions with my family, but I'm just not on the ball like that! The idea of wrapping up the books is awesome. Do you mind if I add it to my "sparkle" talk that I do for homeschoolers?
We are rereading Bartholomew's Passage this year too. :) I like your posts on your traditions. :)
We are also reading Bartholomew's passage this year, although it is the first time the children have heard it and I love how they wait in expectation each day to find out what happened next. Of course they try to convince us to read ahead - which I occasionally do as I can't wait either :)
Last night we ran into Decha and so they are thinking again about Jotham. I told them that Tabitha is next year and they are excited that the journey won't end. I just wish there were books like this for Easter also. -- Amy
We are reading Bartholomew too! We love them!
Amy, they DO make one for Easter!!!
Love the picture of your strong men sitting with you reading! My hope for my kids as they get older! Thank you!!!
Post a Comment