It's been a real joy to see my boys finally enjoy writing. They have both always had active imaginations. They are also fabulous story tellers. But they didn't see the connection between those two things and writing. Now, it seems that something has clicked.
This morning we may have gotten to the genre for which they were waiting! I always thought they both loved fantasy, but we started talking about historical fiction and...boom! They were excited.
It's interesting to me that both want to write a mystery. I don't know why it should be. I love mysteries. But I didn't lead them that direction. After explaining what historical fiction was and asking them to point out some examples in our home library, none of which were mysteries, I asked for their ideas. I was really surprised that they made that leap.
Super is working on a mystery about King Tut's "murder". His plot is that Tut's wife Ankesenamen suspects that Tutankhamun was murdered by his successor (and her new husband) Ay. While she is investigating his murder, she is discovered, she is also killed but she is able to leave behind evidence. But Ay is able to destroy it before anybody else finds out. Happy ending, huh? A little too much Discovery Channel, I think.
Tutone is writing a mystery involving a death in Windsor Castle to be solved by a friend of King Edward III. They are so excited that when that class ended and they had to start Math, they were devastated. Both swore that they were going to work on their stories at lunchtime instead of playing a game. Wow!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Explorers Fun!
My boys love food. Pancakes make a great lesson tool. I have made them into all kinds of things, including plant and animal cells. But this morning, since we were reviewing Explorers, I decided to mark the pancakes with parallels and meridians.
Now before you go imagining some great creation, don't! They didn't look fabulous. But they didn't need to in order to get the point across. And I wish I had pictures to show you, but my boys ate them before I could even get the camera out!
This is a very simple project. I dyed the pancakes batter blue and put them on the griddle in simple circle shapes. When they were set but still a little "liquidy" (if you know what I mean), I used the food coloring as if it was a marker and wrote on them. I drew one red line across the pancake to be the equator. And green lines up and down.
The red line was to stick in their minds that the equator is "red hot". We talked about the parallels and how the equator is at 0 degree latitude. I told them, "Remember, 'lat' equals 'flat' for horizontal." Then I told them the reason that I used green lines for longitude or "long" ways. Is because those were the meridians and the Prime Meridian or 0 degrees longitude is also called the "Green"wich meridian.
If you have any other great ways to tie school into breakfast, I would love to hear them!
Now before you go imagining some great creation, don't! They didn't look fabulous. But they didn't need to in order to get the point across. And I wish I had pictures to show you, but my boys ate them before I could even get the camera out!
This is a very simple project. I dyed the pancakes batter blue and put them on the griddle in simple circle shapes. When they were set but still a little "liquidy" (if you know what I mean), I used the food coloring as if it was a marker and wrote on them. I drew one red line across the pancake to be the equator. And green lines up and down.
The red line was to stick in their minds that the equator is "red hot". We talked about the parallels and how the equator is at 0 degree latitude. I told them, "Remember, 'lat' equals 'flat' for horizontal." Then I told them the reason that I used green lines for longitude or "long" ways. Is because those were the meridians and the Prime Meridian or 0 degrees longitude is also called the "Green"wich meridian.
If you have any other great ways to tie school into breakfast, I would love to hear them!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Christmas Poetry
I love Christmas! My Christmas tree is decorated with angels. I call it my Luke 2:13 tree. This year, I was looking to add a few new ornaments made by the kids with some Bible verses about angels on them.
Always on the look out for a new school assignment, I realized I could have them write some Christmas poetry. I am going to print these out and hang them on the tree as well. I asked the kids to think about what it would have been like to hear from the angels about the birth of Jesus. I gave them choices of Mary, Joseph, or the shepherds, but they both picked the shepherds. It's perfect because it goes with my tree theme anyway! One thing they definitely discovered, expressing yourself in poetry is not easy!
Shepherds of Bethlehem
by Tutone
Shepherds of Bethlehem
Peaceful, silent
Watching the sheep
Suddenly!
Angels of the Lord
Bright, loud
Singing their song
The Son of God
Great, awesome
Laying in a manger
Glory to God, the Most High!
Silent Night
by Super
It was a silent and peaceful night.
The shepherds were watching their sheep by the star light.
Suddenly, an Angel of the Lord appeared!
Singing with joy,
The angel told the frightened shepherds
The Son of God was near.
The Messiah, the shepherds ran to see,
When they arrived, they happily fell on their knees!
Always on the look out for a new school assignment, I realized I could have them write some Christmas poetry. I am going to print these out and hang them on the tree as well. I asked the kids to think about what it would have been like to hear from the angels about the birth of Jesus. I gave them choices of Mary, Joseph, or the shepherds, but they both picked the shepherds. It's perfect because it goes with my tree theme anyway! One thing they definitely discovered, expressing yourself in poetry is not easy!
Shepherds of Bethlehem
by Tutone
Shepherds of Bethlehem
Peaceful, silent
Watching the sheep
Suddenly!
Angels of the Lord
Bright, loud
Singing their song
The Son of God
Great, awesome
Laying in a manger
Glory to God, the Most High!
Silent Night
by Super
It was a silent and peaceful night.
The shepherds were watching their sheep by the star light.
Suddenly, an Angel of the Lord appeared!
Singing with joy,
The angel told the frightened shepherds
The Son of God was near.
The Messiah, the shepherds ran to see,
When they arrived, they happily fell on their knees!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Celebrating the Season!
My dear friend Molly @ Counter Cultural Mom is hosting a blog carnival. I had heard of these but I had no idea what they entailed. Little did I know how easy they were! Uh oh! Watch out world! Anyway, Molly's blog carnival is Celebrating the Season. She asked us to share our favorite Christmas music and books.
My favorite Christmas carol is Hark the Herald Angels Sing. The lyrics were written by Charles Wesley, who was the brother of John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist church. However, the tune was originally very solemn. A hundred years later, Felix Mendelssohn composed a cantata to commemorate the invention of Johann Gutenberg's printing press. It was the English musician William H. Cummings who took Mendelssohn's composition and adapted it to Wesley's lyrics.
My reason for loving the carol is more simple than it's history. When I was a little girl, my grandmother gave me a music box. It was a silver angel that spun in place. The song it played was Hark the Herald Angels Sing. There are many modern versions available. Charlotte Church has a gorgeous voice. I find her rendition the most enjoyable.
As for Christmas literature, Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is a must read. If you have only watched the movie, you are missing out! Written in 1843, Dickens wrote the book to revive his dwindling checking account and instead revived the dying Christmas traditions in Victorian England. That's quite an accomplishment! Shortly thereafter, Queen Victoria began sending out official Christmas cards. Victorians were excited about celebrating Christmas again because of one book. If you are looking for a book on tape to travel with this season, I suggest A Christmas Carol narrated by Patrick Stewart.
Of course, Dickens went on to write four other Christmas books. They are filled with strong moral messages. Worth reading for older students, I would not suggest them as a read aloud for younger ones. Of the other four Christmas books, I enjoyed The Cricket on the Hearth, but nothing can match Dickens' A Christmas Carol. I am sure that's why it sold six thousand copies in one week. Quite a feat in those days.
My favorite Christmas carol is Hark the Herald Angels Sing. The lyrics were written by Charles Wesley, who was the brother of John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist church. However, the tune was originally very solemn. A hundred years later, Felix Mendelssohn composed a cantata to commemorate the invention of Johann Gutenberg's printing press. It was the English musician William H. Cummings who took Mendelssohn's composition and adapted it to Wesley's lyrics.
My reason for loving the carol is more simple than it's history. When I was a little girl, my grandmother gave me a music box. It was a silver angel that spun in place. The song it played was Hark the Herald Angels Sing. There are many modern versions available. Charlotte Church has a gorgeous voice. I find her rendition the most enjoyable.
As for Christmas literature, Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is a must read. If you have only watched the movie, you are missing out! Written in 1843, Dickens wrote the book to revive his dwindling checking account and instead revived the dying Christmas traditions in Victorian England. That's quite an accomplishment! Shortly thereafter, Queen Victoria began sending out official Christmas cards. Victorians were excited about celebrating Christmas again because of one book. If you are looking for a book on tape to travel with this season, I suggest A Christmas Carol narrated by Patrick Stewart.
Of course, Dickens went on to write four other Christmas books. They are filled with strong moral messages. Worth reading for older students, I would not suggest them as a read aloud for younger ones. Of the other four Christmas books, I enjoyed The Cricket on the Hearth, but nothing can match Dickens' A Christmas Carol. I am sure that's why it sold six thousand copies in one week. Quite a feat in those days.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Advent Activity Calendar - December 25
Merry Christmas!
Scripture Reading:
Luke 2:13-20
"Suddenly, a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.' When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, 'Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.' So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told."
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition discussed: Advent Wreath
Activity: Advent Wreath
Today is the Christmas Day! We light the last candle in our wreath. It is the white candle in the center. The white candle represents Christ. Say a prayer or sing a hymn with your children as you light the wreath. Once again, there is no set form that you must follow, but here is an example...
"We praise you, Lord God, because on this day your Word became flesh in our Savior Jesus Christ, who was born of a woman and walked among us as a man. To you, O Lord, we give our honor, praise, worship, and love, in the most holy and precious name of the One who is born today; because He lives and reigns with you in your glory, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Amen."
Scripture Reading:
Luke 2:13-20
"Suddenly, a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.' When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, 'Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.' So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told."
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition discussed: Advent Wreath
Activity: Advent Wreath
Today is the Christmas Day! We light the last candle in our wreath. It is the white candle in the center. The white candle represents Christ. Say a prayer or sing a hymn with your children as you light the wreath. Once again, there is no set form that you must follow, but here is an example...
"We praise you, Lord God, because on this day your Word became flesh in our Savior Jesus Christ, who was born of a woman and walked among us as a man. To you, O Lord, we give our honor, praise, worship, and love, in the most holy and precious name of the One who is born today; because He lives and reigns with you in your glory, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Amen."
Advent Activity Calendar - December 24
Scripture Reading:
Matthew 1:20-23
"But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, 'Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.' All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel' --which means, 'God with us.'" Country in Focus: Italy
Tradition: Live Nativity
Directions: Find a church that does a live nativity.
Background:
In the 10th century, the church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome created the first nativity scene. The tradition became popular throughout Italy. Unfortunately, the scene featured gold and jewels. In 1224, St. Francis of Assisi decided that a more realistic nativity scene was needed. His manger scene, called a creche, was filled with hay, carved figures and live animals. This was in the village of Greccio.
In the 1700s, the tradition was brought to Spain. From Spain, the tradition traveled to Mexico. Live people were added to the scene. Often the entire scene of Mary and Joseph traveling to find a place to stay was acted out, with the actors parading through the village. In the 19th century, it became a tradition to not add Baby Jesus to the nativity scene until Christmas Eve night. Baby Jesus was added to the nativity with a large parade and festival.
If you know of a church in the area that has a live nativity, it is worth watching. Our church has a play called "The Bethlehem Inn", that is done dinner theater style. It is performed every two years. I definitely miss it on the off year, which this one was. I look forward to it again next year!
Matthew 1:20-23
"But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, 'Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.' All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel' --which means, 'God with us.'" Country in Focus: Italy
Tradition: Live Nativity
Directions: Find a church that does a live nativity.
Background:
In the 10th century, the church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome created the first nativity scene. The tradition became popular throughout Italy. Unfortunately, the scene featured gold and jewels. In 1224, St. Francis of Assisi decided that a more realistic nativity scene was needed. His manger scene, called a creche, was filled with hay, carved figures and live animals. This was in the village of Greccio.
In the 1700s, the tradition was brought to Spain. From Spain, the tradition traveled to Mexico. Live people were added to the scene. Often the entire scene of Mary and Joseph traveling to find a place to stay was acted out, with the actors parading through the village. In the 19th century, it became a tradition to not add Baby Jesus to the nativity scene until Christmas Eve night. Baby Jesus was added to the nativity with a large parade and festival.
If you know of a church in the area that has a live nativity, it is worth watching. Our church has a play called "The Bethlehem Inn", that is done dinner theater style. It is performed every two years. I definitely miss it on the off year, which this one was. I look forward to it again next year!
Advent Activity Calendar - December 23
Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 49:11-13
Tradition: Poinsettia
Activity: Make a craft with poinsettias.
Directions:
Poinsettia napkins rings
Paper Poinsettia
Poinsettia Paper Plate Craft
Background:
Why do we decorate with this beautiful plant at Christmas?
The story of the poinsettia comes to us from Mexico. The legend says that a brother and sister, named Maria and Pablo were so poor that they barely had enough food to eat two meals a day. During the Christmas season the village held parades and parties. The children were so excited! There was even a manger scene built at the local church. All the children in the village wanted to give Baby Jesus a gift. Maria and Pablo wanted to give Baby Jesus a gift too. But they had no money for a gift.
Since Maria and Pablo had nothing to give Him, they left for church earlier than the rest of the children. On the way, they stopped and picked some weeds to decorate the crib for Baby Jesus. While they were decorating the crib, the other children from the village arrived. Unfortunately, the children began to make fun of Maria and Pablo. Maria and Pablo were so distraught that they burst into tears. Then a miracle happened! The weeds burst open into beautiful red star shaped flowers. All the children realized that Jesus was more pleased with Maria and Pablo's gift because it was given in love.
Isaiah 49:11-13
“I will turn all my mountains into roads, and my highways will be raised up. See, they will come from afar -- some from the north, some from the west, some from the region of Aswan. Shout for joy, O heavens; rejoice, O earth; burst into song, O mountains! For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones.'”
Country in Focus: MexicoTradition: Poinsettia
Activity: Make a craft with poinsettias.
Directions:
Poinsettia napkins rings
Paper Poinsettia
Poinsettia Paper Plate Craft
Background:
Why do we decorate with this beautiful plant at Christmas?
The story of the poinsettia comes to us from Mexico. The legend says that a brother and sister, named Maria and Pablo were so poor that they barely had enough food to eat two meals a day. During the Christmas season the village held parades and parties. The children were so excited! There was even a manger scene built at the local church. All the children in the village wanted to give Baby Jesus a gift. Maria and Pablo wanted to give Baby Jesus a gift too. But they had no money for a gift.
Since Maria and Pablo had nothing to give Him, they left for church earlier than the rest of the children. On the way, they stopped and picked some weeds to decorate the crib for Baby Jesus. While they were decorating the crib, the other children from the village arrived. Unfortunately, the children began to make fun of Maria and Pablo. Maria and Pablo were so distraught that they burst into tears. Then a miracle happened! The weeds burst open into beautiful red star shaped flowers. All the children realized that Jesus was more pleased with Maria and Pablo's gift because it was given in love.
Advent Activity Calendar - December 22
Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 16: 5
Tradition: A Day at the Beach
Activity: "Go" to the Beach
Materials: Bathtub toys and bubble bath
Background:
This one is for my mother in law. In Australia, Christmas comes in the summer. Once I asked my mother in law, who my husband calls "Mum", what they did as a Christmas tradition. She told me that after church, they took a picnic to the beach!
Since at this point you are exhausted, and you have things to do, why not have a pretend beach night? I used to do this sometimes with my kids. I let them get in the bathtub at night with their swimsuits on. Then we would fill up the bathtub with bubbles to make the foam from the ocean. I would let them splash around and pretend they were at the beach. I would get out some of the beach toys that they hadn't played with in a while and let them take them into the tub.
Yes, you will have a bathroom to clean up at the end of the night. But why not make bath time fun tonight?
Isaiah 16: 5
In love a throne will be established; in faithfulness a man will sit on it-- one from the house of David-- one who in judging seeks justice and speeds the cause of righteousness.
Tradition: A Day at the Beach
Activity: "Go" to the Beach
Materials: Bathtub toys and bubble bath
Background:
This one is for my mother in law. In Australia, Christmas comes in the summer. Once I asked my mother in law, who my husband calls "Mum", what they did as a Christmas tradition. She told me that after church, they took a picnic to the beach!
Since at this point you are exhausted, and you have things to do, why not have a pretend beach night? I used to do this sometimes with my kids. I let them get in the bathtub at night with their swimsuits on. Then we would fill up the bathtub with bubbles to make the foam from the ocean. I would let them splash around and pretend they were at the beach. I would get out some of the beach toys that they hadn't played with in a while and let them take them into the tub.
Yes, you will have a bathroom to clean up at the end of the night. But why not make bath time fun tonight?
Advent Activity Calendar - December 21
Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 9:6-7
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this."
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition discussed: Advent Wreath
Activity: Advent Wreath
Today is the fourth Sunday of Advent. We light the fourth candle on our wreath. It is the third purple candle. Say a prayer or sing a hymn with your children as you light the wreath. Once again, there is no set form that you must follow, but here is an example...
"Father, we light this candle to thank you for your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who is the Prince of Peace. We have found peace in the promise of eternal life, through Jesus Christ. We give you thanks and praise in Jesus' name, because he lives and reigns with you in your glory, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Amen."
Isaiah 9:6-7
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this."
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition discussed: Advent Wreath
Activity: Advent Wreath
Today is the fourth Sunday of Advent. We light the fourth candle on our wreath. It is the third purple candle. Say a prayer or sing a hymn with your children as you light the wreath. Once again, there is no set form that you must follow, but here is an example...
"Father, we light this candle to thank you for your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who is the Prince of Peace. We have found peace in the promise of eternal life, through Jesus Christ. We give you thanks and praise in Jesus' name, because he lives and reigns with you in your glory, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Amen."
Advent Activity Calendar - December 20
Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 48:17-19
Country in Focus: Your Family's!
Tradition: Find out!
Activity: Have a "feast"!
Directions:
There are as many different Christmas feast traditions as there are countries!
Choose the one from your families heritage. Participate in that in a small way tonight.
Discuss which members of your family came from that country. How long ago was that? Did you participate in these traditions as a child or is this the first time for you as well?
For example, everybody thinks "meat" when they think Polish. The Veggie Tales song about the 12 days of Christmas doesn't help dispel that myth. But did you know that some families celebrated Christmas by serving 9 meatless dishes to represent the 9 months that Mary was pregnant with Jesus? You did know that you could make pierogi without meat, right?
Or did you know in Italy, that a tradition Christmas Eve dinner is made up of 7 types of fish dishes? This number actually changes depending on the town of the family's origin.
Wikipedia has a list of Christmas Dishes by country.
The History of Christmas also has a list of many different traditions by country, not just food.
As does The World of Christmas.
You can also do an internet search on your country and "Christmas Food Traditions".
Some websites that I found interesting were for Norway, Greece, and Iceland.
Isaiah 48:17-19
“This is what the LORD says-- your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: 'I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea. Your descendants would have been like the sand, your children like its numberless grains; their name would never be cut off nor destroyed from before me.'"
Country in Focus: Your Family's!
Tradition: Find out!
Activity: Have a "feast"!
Directions:
There are as many different Christmas feast traditions as there are countries!
Choose the one from your families heritage. Participate in that in a small way tonight.
Discuss which members of your family came from that country. How long ago was that? Did you participate in these traditions as a child or is this the first time for you as well?
For example, everybody thinks "meat" when they think Polish. The Veggie Tales song about the 12 days of Christmas doesn't help dispel that myth. But did you know that some families celebrated Christmas by serving 9 meatless dishes to represent the 9 months that Mary was pregnant with Jesus? You did know that you could make pierogi without meat, right?
Or did you know in Italy, that a tradition Christmas Eve dinner is made up of 7 types of fish dishes? This number actually changes depending on the town of the family's origin.
Wikipedia has a list of Christmas Dishes by country.
The History of Christmas also has a list of many different traditions by country, not just food.
As does The World of Christmas.
You can also do an internet search on your country and "Christmas Food Traditions".
Some websites that I found interesting were for Norway, Greece, and Iceland.
Advent Activity Calendar - December 19
Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 45:5-6a
Country Focus: Germany
Tradition: Christmas Lights
Activity: Neighborhood walk
Directions: Walk around your neighborhood and view your neighbors' Christmas lights displays. Choose the "best" house and give them a prize.
Background:
During Medieval times, Christians starting lighting special candles during Christmas. The candles symbolized Jesus' roles as Light of the World. There were many traditions involving candles including the advent wreath, lighting the Christmas tree, and putting candles in the window to welcome travelers. In 1747, Pastor John of Germany started the tradition of Christingle. Christingle i
s putting a candle in an orange and decorating it with a red ribbon.
Many people starting putting candles along their walk in hurricane lamps or bags with sand to hold them in place. All of these different decorations with candles were obviously dangerous. But it was the invention of the lightbulb by Thomas Edison that changed everything. Edward Hibberd Johnson, a business associate of Edison, took the lightbulb invention and had miniatures made in red, white and blue for his Christmas tree. He proudly displayed his tree in the window of his Fifth Avenue home in New York City in 1882. Although local papers ignored it as a publicity stunt for the Edison Electric Light Company, a Detroit newspaper reporter published the story. Johnson became known as the "Father of Electric Christmas Tree Lights." To think that it all started with Martin Luther's candles!
In 1895, Grover Cleveland became the first president to have an electrically lit Christmas tree in the White House. After that, the tradition grew with passion in the United States, but still only indoors. In 1931, the Rockfeller Center Christmas tree was "lit" (not with real electric lights, that wasn't until 1956). Finally in 1956, when Disney started decorating outdoors with electric lights, a new tradition was born!
My kids and I pick the house that we think is decorated the best. Then we print a certificate on the computer that says, "Voted the Best Christmas House in the Neighborhood". We also give them a plate of cookies. The reason we call it "The Christmas House" is because when the boys were toddlers they always used to ask if we could have a "Christmas House". When I told them that our house was decorated for Christmas they told me it wasn't because we had white lights and not colored lights. Every time we would pass by a house with colored lights, they would point it out and say, "There's a Christmas House mama! I want a Christmas House!"
Have fun picking out your favorite "Christmas House"! It's a great way to spread good cheer in your neighborhood.
Isaiah 45:5-6a
“I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God, I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me, so that from the rising of the sun to the place of its setting men may know there is none besides me.”
Country Focus: Germany
Tradition: Christmas Lights
Activity: Neighborhood walk
Directions: Walk around your neighborhood and view your neighbors' Christmas lights displays. Choose the "best" house and give them a prize.
Background:
During Medieval times, Christians starting lighting special candles during Christmas. The candles symbolized Jesus' roles as Light of the World. There were many traditions involving candles including the advent wreath, lighting the Christmas tree, and putting candles in the window to welcome travelers. In 1747, Pastor John of Germany started the tradition of Christingle. Christingle i
s putting a candle in an orange and decorating it with a red ribbon.Many people starting putting candles along their walk in hurricane lamps or bags with sand to hold them in place. All of these different decorations with candles were obviously dangerous. But it was the invention of the lightbulb by Thomas Edison that changed everything. Edward Hibberd Johnson, a business associate of Edison, took the lightbulb invention and had miniatures made in red, white and blue for his Christmas tree. He proudly displayed his tree in the window of his Fifth Avenue home in New York City in 1882. Although local papers ignored it as a publicity stunt for the Edison Electric Light Company, a Detroit newspaper reporter published the story. Johnson became known as the "Father of Electric Christmas Tree Lights." To think that it all started with Martin Luther's candles!
In 1895, Grover Cleveland became the first president to have an electrically lit Christmas tree in the White House. After that, the tradition grew with passion in the United States, but still only indoors. In 1931, the Rockfeller Center Christmas tree was "lit" (not with real electric lights, that wasn't until 1956). Finally in 1956, when Disney started decorating outdoors with electric lights, a new tradition was born!
My kids and I pick the house that we think is decorated the best. Then we print a certificate on the computer that says, "Voted the Best Christmas House in the Neighborhood". We also give them a plate of cookies. The reason we call it "The Christmas House" is because when the boys were toddlers they always used to ask if we could have a "Christmas House". When I told them that our house was decorated for Christmas they told me it wasn't because we had white lights and not colored lights. Every time we would pass by a house with colored lights, they would point it out and say, "There's a Christmas House mama! I want a Christmas House!"
Have fun picking out your favorite "Christmas House"! It's a great way to spread good cheer in your neighborhood.
Advent Activity Calendar - December 18
Scripture Reading:
Matthew 2:1-6
"Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, 'Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.' When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born.
Tradition: Giving Gifts
Activity: Deliver goody bags
Materials: small bags, cookies, sugared nuts, mini loaves of bread, and other treats that you have made.
Directions: Deliver your bags to the people on the list you and your children made back on December 2.
Background:
Every year people complain about how expensive Christmas has become. And every year people go to the stores months in advance to find the perfect present for their loved ones. The stores definitely take advantage of this desire. But when did this tradition start? Christmas wasn't always about buying expensive gifts.
Before Christ was born, in Ancient Rome, people exchanged gifts on the New Year. The gifts were generally food or plants. In the northern most parts of Europe, people exchanged gifts of bread or alcohol. Some ancient rulers demanded that gifts be brought to them during the New Year's celebration. One year, Henry III close the doors of all the merchants in England by force because he was not impressed by the monetary gifts they had brought.
Just like many pagan traditions, early church leaders gave up fighting against them and turned the tradition into a Christian one. They changed the timing of the gift giving from New Years to Christmas. The church used the Bible passage in the Gospel of Matthew about the Magi bringing gifts to the Christ Child as justification for the giving of gifts.
Like many of our Christmas traditions, it was really the Victorians who breathed new life into giving of gifts. Warmth, friendship, and charity were all big parts of the Victorian Christmas tradition. It is no surprise then that great care was taken in picking out presents, especially for those who were economically challenged.
Often the gift itself was not even the point, but how it was given. Families played games to distribute their gifts. One of these games was called cobwebs. Each person was assigned a different color. Yarn was wrapped in a cobweb in a room in those different colors. Each person had to find their color and untangle themselves through the cobweb to find their present. Sometimes presents would be hidden and clues would be left. In every case, the giving of the gift was just as fun as the getting.
I hope that you have enjoyed preparing your items for your goody bags with your kids. Even something so simple will make people very happy. You will be surprised!
Matthew 2:1-6
"Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, 'Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.' When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born.
They said to him, 'In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet:
'AND YOU, BETHLEHEM, LAND OF JUDAH,
ARE BY NO MEANS LEAST AMONG THE LEADERS OF JUDAH;
FOR OUT OF YOU SHALL COME FORTH A RULER
WHO WILL SHEPHERD MY PEOPLE ISRAEL.'"
Tradition: Giving Gifts
Activity: Deliver goody bags
Materials: small bags, cookies, sugared nuts, mini loaves of bread, and other treats that you have made.
Directions: Deliver your bags to the people on the list you and your children made back on December 2.
Background:
Every year people complain about how expensive Christmas has become. And every year people go to the stores months in advance to find the perfect present for their loved ones. The stores definitely take advantage of this desire. But when did this tradition start? Christmas wasn't always about buying expensive gifts.
Before Christ was born, in Ancient Rome, people exchanged gifts on the New Year. The gifts were generally food or plants. In the northern most parts of Europe, people exchanged gifts of bread or alcohol. Some ancient rulers demanded that gifts be brought to them during the New Year's celebration. One year, Henry III close the doors of all the merchants in England by force because he was not impressed by the monetary gifts they had brought.
Just like many pagan traditions, early church leaders gave up fighting against them and turned the tradition into a Christian one. They changed the timing of the gift giving from New Years to Christmas. The church used the Bible passage in the Gospel of Matthew about the Magi bringing gifts to the Christ Child as justification for the giving of gifts.
Like many of our Christmas traditions, it was really the Victorians who breathed new life into giving of gifts. Warmth, friendship, and charity were all big parts of the Victorian Christmas tradition. It is no surprise then that great care was taken in picking out presents, especially for those who were economically challenged.
Often the gift itself was not even the point, but how it was given. Families played games to distribute their gifts. One of these games was called cobwebs. Each person was assigned a different color. Yarn was wrapped in a cobweb in a room in those different colors. Each person had to find their color and untangle themselves through the cobweb to find their present. Sometimes presents would be hidden and clues would be left. In every case, the giving of the gift was just as fun as the getting.
I hope that you have enjoyed preparing your items for your goody bags with your kids. Even something so simple will make people very happy. You will be surprised!
Advent Activity Calendar - December 17
Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 49:7
"This is what the LORD says-- the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel-- to him who was despised and abhorred by the nation, to the servant of rulers: 'Kings will see you and rise up, princes will see and bow down, because of the Lord, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.'" Country in Focus: England
Tradition: Mincemeat Pie
Activity: Make Christmas Pie
Materials:
4 lbs. venison or beef, cubed
2 c. calf suet, chopped, fine
6 c. apples, chopped
3 c. meat stock
5 c. sugar
3 c. apple cider
1 c. molasses
1/2 c. apple cider vinegar
3 c. raisins
2 tbsp cinnamon
1 tbsp cloves
2 tbsp allspice
2 tbsp nutmeg
2 lemons, juiced
2 oranges, juiced
1 c. sherry
Directions:
Place chopped meat in a large pan cover with stock simmer over medium heat until meat is tender. Remove from heat. Transfer to a large pot combine meat cubes, suet, apples, stock, sugar, apple cider, molasses, cider vinegar, raisins, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, lemon juice, and orange juice; simmer for 2 hours. remove from heat. Add brandy or sherry and mix together.
Background:
Mincemeat pie is also known as Christmas pie. It was developed as a way to preserve meat without having to salt it or smoke it. The pie was usually made of minced mutton. Traditionally minced pie was more meat than fruit than fruit.
The Christmas pie began in the 11th century with the Crusaders. When they returned from the Holy Land, they brought back with them many new oriental spices. The pies were made with three spices to represent the three gifts of the Magi.
The pies continued in some form or another until 1657 when Oliver Cromwell, the self appointed Lord Protector of England (from 1649-1658) declared that Christmas was a pagan holiday. Soldiers were order in the city of London to remove by force any food being cooked in celebration of Christmas. The smell of mincemeat pies or goose no longer filled the air.
In the 17th century, the pies became known as "secret pies". They were made in eccentric shapes to hide the fact that they were Christmas pies. Spices had became more abundant and therefore the mixture in the pies had become spicier. Cromwell's influence spread to the colonies as well, and mincemeat pies were banned in many towns in New England as well. The celebration of Christmas was actually outlawed in Boston from 1659 to 1681. Anyone caught celebrating was fined.
The ban was lifted on Christmas was lifted in England when the Puritans lost power in 1660. The ban was lifted in Boston in 1681. But even after the ban was lifted, Christmas was still not celebrated in either place with the gusto it is today. It was the Victorians that brought the life back to Christmas celebrations for both England and New England.
I hope that you will enjoy making some form of mincemeat pie. There are many mock mincemeat pie recipes on the internet as well.
Isaiah 49:7
"This is what the LORD says-- the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel-- to him who was despised and abhorred by the nation, to the servant of rulers: 'Kings will see you and rise up, princes will see and bow down, because of the Lord, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.'" Country in Focus: England
Tradition: Mincemeat Pie
Activity: Make Christmas Pie
Materials:
4 lbs. venison or beef, cubed
2 c. calf suet, chopped, fine
6 c. apples, chopped
3 c. meat stock
5 c. sugar
3 c. apple cider
1 c. molasses
1/2 c. apple cider vinegar
3 c. raisins
2 tbsp cinnamon
1 tbsp cloves
2 tbsp allspice
2 tbsp nutmeg
2 lemons, juiced
2 oranges, juiced
1 c. sherry
Directions:
Place chopped meat in a large pan cover with stock simmer over medium heat until meat is tender. Remove from heat. Transfer to a large pot combine meat cubes, suet, apples, stock, sugar, apple cider, molasses, cider vinegar, raisins, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, lemon juice, and orange juice; simmer for 2 hours. remove from heat. Add brandy or sherry and mix together.
Background:
Mincemeat pie is also known as Christmas pie. It was developed as a way to preserve meat without having to salt it or smoke it. The pie was usually made of minced mutton. Traditionally minced pie was more meat than fruit than fruit.
The Christmas pie began in the 11th century with the Crusaders. When they returned from the Holy Land, they brought back with them many new oriental spices. The pies were made with three spices to represent the three gifts of the Magi.
The pies continued in some form or another until 1657 when Oliver Cromwell, the self appointed Lord Protector of England (from 1649-1658) declared that Christmas was a pagan holiday. Soldiers were order in the city of London to remove by force any food being cooked in celebration of Christmas. The smell of mincemeat pies or goose no longer filled the air.
In the 17th century, the pies became known as "secret pies". They were made in eccentric shapes to hide the fact that they were Christmas pies. Spices had became more abundant and therefore the mixture in the pies had become spicier. Cromwell's influence spread to the colonies as well, and mincemeat pies were banned in many towns in New England as well. The celebration of Christmas was actually outlawed in Boston from 1659 to 1681. Anyone caught celebrating was fined.
The ban was lifted on Christmas was lifted in England when the Puritans lost power in 1660. The ban was lifted in Boston in 1681. But even after the ban was lifted, Christmas was still not celebrated in either place with the gusto it is today. It was the Victorians that brought the life back to Christmas celebrations for both England and New England.
I hope that you will enjoy making some form of mincemeat pie. There are many mock mincemeat pie recipes on the internet as well.
Advent Activity Calendar - December 16
Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 46: 13 "I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed. I will grant salvation to Zion, my splendor to Israel. "
Country in Focus: Italy
Tradition: Sugared Nuts
Activity: Make Spiced Nuts
Materials: Egg whites, mixed nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla extract, and sugar.
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
2. Mix 1 tbsp of egg white and 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
3. Use the above mixture to coat 2 cups of mixed nuts.
4. Combine 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tbsp of cinnamon, 1/4 tsp of nutmeg, and 1/8 tsp of cloves.
5. Sprinkle above mixture over egg white-nut mixture until all the nuts are coated.
6. Spread out on a ungreased cookie sheet.
7. Bake for 20 minutes.
Background:
Nuts were an important part of the medieval diet. Almonds in particular could be found in every medieval kitchen. The reason nuts were so common is they were easy to store. Also, physicians of the day recommended them to aid in digestion. When a fish dish was served, it was almost always followed by nuts. Italians still use sugared almonds as part of their Christmas day celebrations, where the menu is almost entirely seafood dishes.
So it should be no surprise that since Christmas came in the winter when illness was rampant, that Saint Nicholas would deliver things that would help make children well. These special deliveries included oranges and nuts. The nuts that Saint Nicholas left were often spiced because spices also had a medicinal effect.
I was very proud of how our nuts turned out! This has been one of our more successful adventures! Don't forget that you will have to separate the nuts with a fork right before you serve them.
Isaiah 46: 13 "I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed. I will grant salvation to Zion, my splendor to Israel. "
Country in Focus: Italy
Tradition: Sugared Nuts
Activity: Make Spiced Nuts
Materials: Egg whites, mixed nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla extract, and sugar.
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
2. Mix 1 tbsp of egg white and 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
3. Use the above mixture to coat 2 cups of mixed nuts.
4. Combine 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tbsp of cinnamon, 1/4 tsp of nutmeg, and 1/8 tsp of cloves.
5. Sprinkle above mixture over egg white-nut mixture until all the nuts are coated.
6. Spread out on a ungreased cookie sheet.
7. Bake for 20 minutes.
Background:
Nuts were an important part of the medieval diet. Almonds in particular could be found in every medieval kitchen. The reason nuts were so common is they were easy to store. Also, physicians of the day recommended them to aid in digestion. When a fish dish was served, it was almost always followed by nuts. Italians still use sugared almonds as part of their Christmas day celebrations, where the menu is almost entirely seafood dishes.
So it should be no surprise that since Christmas came in the winter when illness was rampant, that Saint Nicholas would deliver things that would help make children well. These special deliveries included oranges and nuts. The nuts that Saint Nicholas left were often spiced because spices also had a medicinal effect.
I was very proud of how our nuts turned out! This has been one of our more successful adventures! Don't forget that you will have to separate the nuts with a fork right before you serve them.
Advent Activity Calendar - December 15
Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 45: 23-25 “By myself I have sworn, my mouth has uttered in all integrity a word that will not be revoked: Before me every knee will bow; by me every tongue will swear. They will say of me, 'In the LORD alone are righteousness and strength.' " All who have raged against him will come to him and be put to shame. But in the LORD all the descendants of Israel will be found righteous and will exult.”
Country Focus: Germany
Tradition: Gingerbread Houses
Activity: Make a gingerbread house!
Materials: gingerbread house pieces, candy decorations and icing.
Directions:
1. I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted! I'm using a house form from the grocery store. But if you want to follow a recipe to make your gingerbread house from scratch you can find it here.
2. Decorate your gingerbread house using icing to hold on your candy.
3. Ask your children to use their imagination to come up with the decorations.
4. Some ideas...
These are my boys creations. They had a party with their friend!
UPDATED***
Check out Pam's kids! Here are their gingerbread houses!
http://journeyingwithjoy.blogspot.com/2008/12/gingerbread-house.html
http://journeyingwithjoy.blogspot.com/2008/12/more-gingerbread-houses.html
Background:
Ginger is a spice from Malaysia. The root is used to sooth upset stomach or to prevent a cold, which made it's use popular during the winter months. In the 11th century, ginger was introduced to the Europeans. The English invented ginger candy. Later, bread crumbs were added and gingerbread was developed.
In the Middle Ages, ginger was abundant in Germany. Germany was the center of the spice trade. Nuremberg, Germany became known as the gingerbread capital. Many types of craftsmen contributed to the making of elaborate gingerbread creations. Carpenters and sculptors carved wooden molds for the shapes. Artists decorated the bread with icing and gold paint.
At first hearts, angels, and wreaths were sold at fairs. During the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I gave her guests gingerbread portraits that looked like them! Later in the 17th century, the discovery of molasses made gingerbread more accessible. No longer just something for the wealthy, families started making their own gingerbread men cookies. But still the focus wasn't on houses. In the 19th century, while the Grimm brothers were collecting fairy tales, they found one about Hansel and Gretel.
Have fun decorating your gingerbread house! I know your kids will have fun eating it!
Isaiah 45: 23-25 “By myself I have sworn, my mouth has uttered in all integrity a word that will not be revoked: Before me every knee will bow; by me every tongue will swear. They will say of me, 'In the LORD alone are righteousness and strength.' " All who have raged against him will come to him and be put to shame. But in the LORD all the descendants of Israel will be found righteous and will exult.”
Country Focus: Germany
Tradition: Gingerbread Houses
Activity: Make a gingerbread house!
Materials: gingerbread house pieces, candy decorations and icing.
Directions:
1. I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted! I'm using a house form from the grocery store. But if you want to follow a recipe to make your gingerbread house from scratch you can find it here.
2. Decorate your gingerbread house using icing to hold on your candy.
3. Ask your children to use their imagination to come up with the decorations.
4. Some ideas...
- Chicklets for the roof shingles
- Mini wheats if you want a thatched roof
- Twizzlers or sticks of gum for the house planks
- Tootsie rolls for fence posts
- Frost a ice cream cone green to make a Christmas tree and decorate it with sprinkles for ornaments an
d lights
These are my boys creations. They had a party with their friend!
UPDATED***
Check out Pam's kids! Here are their gingerbread houses!
http://journeyingwithjoy.blogspot.com/2008/12/gingerbread-house.html
http://journeyingwithjoy.blogspot.com/2008/12/more-gingerbread-houses.html
Background:
Ginger is a spice from Malaysia. The root is used to sooth upset stomach or to prevent a cold, which made it's use popular during the winter months. In the 11th century, ginger was introduced to the Europeans. The English invented ginger candy. Later, bread crumbs were added and gingerbread was developed.
In the Middle Ages, ginger was abundant in Germany. Germany was the center of the spice trade. Nuremberg, Germany became known as the gingerbread capital. Many types of craftsmen contributed to the making of elaborate gingerbread creations. Carpenters and sculptors carved wooden molds for the shapes. Artists decorated the bread with icing and gold paint.
At first hearts, angels, and wreaths were sold at fairs. During the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I gave her guests gingerbread portraits that looked like them! Later in the 17th century, the discovery of molasses made gingerbread more accessible. No longer just something for the wealthy, families started making their own gingerbread men cookies. But still the focus wasn't on houses. In the 19th century, while the Grimm brothers were collecting fairy tales, they found one about Hansel and Gretel.
Have fun decorating your gingerbread house! I know your kids will have fun eating it!
Advent Activity Calendar - December 14
Scripture Reading:
Psalm 28:7
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song."
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition discussed: Advent Wreath
Activity: Advent Wreath
Today is the third Sunday of Advent. We light the third candle on our wreath. It is the pink candle. Say a prayer or sing a hymn with your children as you light the wreath. Once again, there is no set form that you must follow, but here is an example...
"Father, we light this candle to thank you for your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who brings us great joy. We who have walked in the shadow of the valley of death have found life in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We give you thanks and praise in Jesus' name, because he lives and reigns with you in your glory, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Amen."
Psalm 28:7
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song."
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition discussed: Advent Wreath
Activity: Advent Wreath
Today is the third Sunday of Advent. We light the third candle on our wreath. It is the pink candle. Say a prayer or sing a hymn with your children as you light the wreath. Once again, there is no set form that you must follow, but here is an example...
"Father, we light this candle to thank you for your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who brings us great joy. We who have walked in the shadow of the valley of death have found life in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We give you thanks and praise in Jesus' name, because he lives and reigns with you in your glory, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Amen."
Advent Activity Calendar - December 13
Scripture Reading:
Micah 5:3-4
"Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites. He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth."
Country Focus: England
Tradition: Games
Activity:Have a Game Night!
Directions: Have your children bring some of their favorite board games down to the table. It's game night.
Background:
Playing games at Christmas time was a tradition that started in England in the late Medieval or early Renaissance times. There were a wide variety of games from which to choose. Some were outdoor games and athletic matches. Later, the games were quieter and meant to be played in a parlor.
One outdoor game, Prisoner's Base, was so popular that the streets were jammed with people. King Edward III banned the game from being played outside Westminister Palace to prevent congestion. Other popular games included Blind Man's Bluff, Leap Frog, and an early version of Hide and Seek. Indoor games included lively rounds of Charades and many different card games.
On a personal note, growing up my family had a tradition that I loved. There was one present that we opened on Christmas Eve. This present was "To" the entire family and was always a game. After dinner, we opened the game and played it until late that night.
I hope you enjoy playing some games with your children! God bless!
Micah 5:3-4
"Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites. He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth."
Country Focus: England
Tradition: Games
Activity:Have a Game Night!
Directions: Have your children bring some of their favorite board games down to the table. It's game night.
Background:
Playing games at Christmas time was a tradition that started in England in the late Medieval or early Renaissance times. There were a wide variety of games from which to choose. Some were outdoor games and athletic matches. Later, the games were quieter and meant to be played in a parlor.
One outdoor game, Prisoner's Base, was so popular that the streets were jammed with people. King Edward III banned the game from being played outside Westminister Palace to prevent congestion. Other popular games included Blind Man's Bluff, Leap Frog, and an early version of Hide and Seek. Indoor games included lively rounds of Charades and many different card games.
On a personal note, growing up my family had a tradition that I loved. There was one present that we opened on Christmas Eve. This present was "To" the entire family and was always a game. After dinner, we opened the game and played it until late that night.
I hope you enjoy playing some games with your children! God bless!
Advent Activity Calendar - December 12
Scripture Reading:
Micah 5:2
"'But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.'"
Country Focus: Italy
Tradition: Christmas Carols
Activity: Have a Christmas Caroling Party!
Materials: Christmas Carol Lyrics and goody bags filled with treats
Directions: Pick some friends and some music. Take some of your goody bags and visit your neighbors. For a bit of added fun, you could dress in festive outfits.
Background:
A Christmas carol is a special hymn with lyrics written specifically to celebrate Christmas. This makes it a little different than other hymns. They are also different from Christmas or winter songs since they are written to celebrate the birth of Christ, and not just to celebrate the season.
Although the word, carol or carole is French, it is believed that Saint Francis of Assisi was the first to introduce carols into formal worship in 1223. The practice of singing carols during Christmas Eve midnight mass continued until the Reformation. In some Protestant churches, carols were not sung, although that is not true of Lutheran churches. Martin Luther authored some carols and encouraged his congregation to use carols in their worship.
During the early Renaissance, wandering minstrels would go from home to home singing carols. They entertained the home owners in hopes of getting a treat or hot drink. Watchman sitting on the city wall were also often heard singing carols as a way to pass the time. Carols were also sung at Christmas fairs, which were village festivals that included food vendors, singing, and dancing. This may be when the name carol was added to the songs, since the word carol means circle-dance.
Some famous Christmas carols and their authors...
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing by Charles Wesley
O Come All Ye Faithful by John Francis Wade
Away in a Manger finished by James R. Murray
Joy to the World by Isaac Watts
The First Noel edited by William B. Sandys
If you are looking for the lyrics to some Christmas carols to sing with your friends, you can check out Christmas-Carols.net. Have fun! And stay warm!
Micah 5:2
"'But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.'"
of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be rulerCountry Focus: Italy
Tradition: Christmas Carols
Activity: Have a Christmas Caroling Party!
Materials: Christmas Carol Lyrics and goody bags filled with treats
Directions: Pick some friends and some music. Take some of your goody bags and visit your neighbors. For a bit of added fun, you could dress in festive outfits.
Background:
A Christmas carol is a special hymn with lyrics written specifically to celebrate Christmas. This makes it a little different than other hymns. They are also different from Christmas or winter songs since they are written to celebrate the birth of Christ, and not just to celebrate the season.
Although the word, carol or carole is French, it is believed that Saint Francis of Assisi was the first to introduce carols into formal worship in 1223. The practice of singing carols during Christmas Eve midnight mass continued until the Reformation. In some Protestant churches, carols were not sung, although that is not true of Lutheran churches. Martin Luther authored some carols and encouraged his congregation to use carols in their worship.
During the early Renaissance, wandering minstrels would go from home to home singing carols. They entertained the home owners in hopes of getting a treat or hot drink. Watchman sitting on the city wall were also often heard singing carols as a way to pass the time. Carols were also sung at Christmas fairs, which were village festivals that included food vendors, singing, and dancing. This may be when the name carol was added to the songs, since the word carol means circle-dance.
Some famous Christmas carols and their authors...
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing by Charles Wesley
O Come All Ye Faithful by John Francis Wade
Away in a Manger finished by James R. Murray
Joy to the World by Isaac Watts
The First Noel edited by William B. Sandys
If you are looking for the lyrics to some Christmas carols to sing with your friends, you can check out Christmas-Carols.net. Have fun! And stay warm!
Advent Activity Calendar - December 11
Scripture Reading:
Matthew 1: 18-25
"This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, 'Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.' All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel'--which means, 'God with us.' When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus."
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition: Christmas Tree Ornaments
Activity: Decorate a Christmas tree ornament.
Materials: box of plastic or glass inexpensive ornaments any color, beads, ribbon, sequins, glitter glue, and glue
Directions:
Use the materials you gathered to decorate the plain ornaments to make your own creations. They make great gifts for grandparents!
Background:
At this point, you probably already have your Christmas tree up. Back on December 6th, I related the history of the Christmas tree itself. But how did the tradition of the Christmas tree make it's way to England and thereby to America? And why did we start hanging ornaments on the tree?
Queen Victoria was very popular. Everything she did, the people of her country emulated. Queen Victoria often traveled to Germany to visit relatives. She met her her husband Prince Albert there. They were married and returned to England, to rule and to raise their family. Prince Albert brought with him a Christmas tree of hand blown glass ornaments. In 1846, the Royal family were depicted in the Illustrated London News standing around their Christmas tree with their children. Immediately, everyone in England and on the East Coast of America had to have one.
Many of the ornaments that people decorated their tree with were handmade ornaments because that's all they could afford. Ladies began Christmas crafting all year in preparation. Until finally, it became the big business it is today! Making ornaments is still more fun. Have a great time!
Matthew 1: 18-25
"This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, 'Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.' All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel'--which means, 'God with us.' When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus."
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition: Christmas Tree Ornaments
Activity: Decorate a Christmas tree ornament.
Materials: box of plastic or glass inexpensive ornaments any color, beads, ribbon, sequins, glitter glue, and glue
Directions:
Use the materials you gathered to decorate the plain ornaments to make your own creations. They make great gifts for grandparents!
Background:
At this point, you probably already have your Christmas tree up. Back on December 6th, I related the history of the Christmas tree itself. But how did the tradition of the Christmas tree make it's way to England and thereby to America? And why did we start hanging ornaments on the tree?
Queen Victoria was very popular. Everything she did, the people of her country emulated. Queen Victoria often traveled to Germany to visit relatives. She met her her husband Prince Albert there. They were married and returned to England, to rule and to raise their family. Prince Albert brought with him a Christmas tree of hand blown glass ornaments. In 1846, the Royal family were depicted in the Illustrated London News standing around their Christmas tree with their children. Immediately, everyone in England and on the East Coast of America had to have one.
Many of the ornaments that people decorated their tree with were handmade ornaments because that's all they could afford. Ladies began Christmas crafting all year in preparation. Until finally, it became the big business it is today! Making ornaments is still more fun. Have a great time!
Advent Activity Calendar - December 10
Scripture Reading:
Luke 1:26-33
"In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, 'Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.' Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.'"
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition: Candy canes
Activity: Add more items to your goody bags. Make candy cane cookies.
Materials: sugar cookie mix, red food coloring, peppermint flavoring
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Using a good baking spray, grease your cookie sheet.
3. After you make the sugar cookie dough, split the dough into two bowls.
4. In one bowl, put a few drops of the red food coloring and the peppermint flavoring.
5. Take the regular dough and roll into into small balls.
6. Form each ball into small snakes.
7. Do the same with the red dough.
8. Intertwine the regular dough and the red dough, forming a candy cane.
9. Place each candy cane on the cookie sheet forming the crook for the shepherd's staff at the top.
10. Bake for 8 minutes.
Background:
While an early form candy cane may have been used by French priests in the early 1400s, the credit for this candy's invention is generally given to the choirmaster of Cologne Cathedral in Germany. In 1670, he bent the straight sticks of sugar into the cane form to represent shepherd's staff. Then he distributed them at the church service to keep the children quiet during his choir's performance. Others picked up on this idea, and soon all Europe was using this as a way to keep children quiet at Christmas services and at live Nativities.
At first the candy was only white. The red stripes weren't added until later in the 1900s. Contrary to the urban legend, there is no official credit given for the stripes being added. Christmas cards before the 1900s show the candy canes without stripes. Christmas cards after the 1900s show the candy canes with them. There are certainly many stories that we can give the candy canes for the colors, just as we do for candy corn in the fall and jelly beans at Easter.
Candy canes now come in a variety of colors and flavors. Have fun making your cookies!
Luke 1:26-33
"In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, 'Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.' Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.'"
Country in Focus: Germany
Tradition: Candy canes
Activity: Add more items to your goody bags. Make candy cane cookies.
Materials: sugar cookie mix, red food coloring, peppermint flavoring
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Using a good baking spray, grease your cookie sheet.
3. After you make the sugar cookie dough, split the dough into two bowls.
4. In one bowl, put a few drops of the red food coloring and the peppermint flavoring.
5. Take the regular dough and roll into into small balls.
6. Form each ball into small snakes.
7. Do the same with the red dough.
8. Intertwine the regular dough and the red dough, forming a candy cane.
9. Place each candy cane on the cookie sheet forming the crook for the shepherd's staff at the top.
10. Bake for 8 minutes.
Background:
While an early form candy cane may have been used by French priests in the early 1400s, the credit for this candy's invention is generally given to the choirmaster of Cologne Cathedral in Germany. In 1670, he bent the straight sticks of sugar into the cane form to represent shepherd's staff. Then he distributed them at the church service to keep the children quiet during his choir's performance. Others picked up on this idea, and soon all Europe was using this as a way to keep children quiet at Christmas services and at live Nativities.
At first the candy was only white. The red stripes weren't added until later in the 1900s. Contrary to the urban legend, there is no official credit given for the stripes being added. Christmas cards before the 1900s show the candy canes without stripes. Christmas cards after the 1900s show the candy canes with them. There are certainly many stories that we can give the candy canes for the colors, just as we do for candy corn in the fall and jelly beans at Easter.
Candy canes now come in a variety of colors and flavors. Have fun making your cookies!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
