Christmas Activities for Moms 2018

Here's a little something for the Moms (and Dads!).

Christmas Coloring Pages


Whimsical Coloring Pages


Inspirational Coloring Pages


Grateful and Blessed and Cup of Tea
by Dawn Nicole


Joy Coloring Page by Thirty Handmade Days


Quick and Easy Christmas Decorating Ideas via Stonegable

Lest we forget, Aunt Leila's wise advice on the true spirit of Advent
and Christmas.


Are you feeling the holiday rush? Taking Time for You by Julie Bogart
has awesome suggestions on loosening up! Yes you can, even if all you
have is 30 seconds, better yet if more. Did I mention that I needed this!!!

Last but not least, this awesome reminder on how to make Advent
and Christmas right.

Christmas Activities for Children 2018

If your kids love I Spy, they'll get a kick out of this Find and
Colour Christmas by Picklebums

There's loads of Christmas Colouring Fun here and here.

Create a Baby Jesus Ornament.

Or maybe DIY a Nativity Set like this or this.

Try out this Wise Men Adventure activity and bid good bye to
that mischievous little elf.

Christmas Plans 2018

I'm really looking forward to Christmas 2018. Christmas 2017 was a season
of transition for the family. We did a big move during the holidays. We also
had a baaaadddddd case of the tummy bug. Things just went by in a blur.
This year, I hope to slow down and enjoy Advent and Christmas Time with
my not-so-littles.

Im hosting a Christmas Read Aloud session or two for our Homeschool Coop. 
Im posting some of my resources here.

A glimpse of Christmas in our home...

TRADITIONS

Sacraments
Mass and Confession

Our Crib and Christmas Tree

Countdown to Christmas
In previous years I borrowed Christmas books from the local library.
It was a great joy for the children and I to spend a few minutes each day
reading new and old Christmas stories. This year, we no longer have access
to that library. Nevertheless, I managed to buy us some Christmas books.
And so, the Christmas Read Aloud Tradition continues...

SCRIPTURE + POETRY

Luke 2:1-14
Each year, we pull out this passage on The Birth of Jesus Christ.
It is the one passage we've consistently read these past few years.
May these words and their essence remain etched in our hearts.

A few other poems worth reading during Advent and Christmas Time:

In the Bleak Midwinter
In the bleak mid-winter...
by Christina Rosetti

A Christmas Carol
The Shepherds had an angel...
by Christina Rosetti

A Christmas Carol
by GK Chesterton

The Animals' Carol
by Charles Causley

A Visit from St. Nicholas (and the poems inspired by it)
by Clement Clarke Moore


BITS AND PIECES

Random thoughts for Moms by the lovely Elizabeth Foss.
A great reminder to have some Margin and Rest for Advent from
Kortney Garrison


RESOURCES

Good books are hard to come by where we're at. These are free
Christmas eBooks available online.

Ambleside Online's Christmas Poems and Stories
The Baldwin Project's Christmas Stories
The Project Gutenberg Christmas Bookshelf

Christmas Traditions 2014

Christmas is just around the corner. Love love love it!

A few years ago I had one profound realization.

I was totally missing the whole point of Christmas!?!

It wasn't something I was consciously doing. 

It was just how things were.

Christmas is a time of caring and sharing.

Christmas is about family and friends.

Christmas is a time of merry making and good cheer.

Christmas is when I take a well deserved break.

Christmas is about Santa and the gifts on the sleigh.

Christmas is about the elf on the shelf.

And the list goes on and on

Don't get me wrong. Christmas is a season of celebration.

And, enjoy it we should!

Decorate your home

Cook up a feast 

Dress up for fun

Meet up with family and friends

Donate to others

But let's remember first and foremost,

Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Christ.

The 30th of November marks the 1st week of Advent.

Advent is a period of four weeks leading up to Christmas.

It's four weeks of preparing one's heart for the coming 

of the Lord.

I was hoping to have a nice and pretty Jesse Tree this year.

But let's not kid ourselves, I do not have time for extra prep work.

And to top it off our trusty printer seems to have conked out. Ugh!

I found a strip of craft paper and a broken toy part in the printer.

Hurray! Our printer still works!

Here are some simple Advent and Christmas activities for the family:

1. Scripture Reading

Sometime this year, the playgroup gave us a copy of the Jesus Storybook
Bible. The Jesus Storybook Bible reads more like a book than a bible.
Our goal is to read one chapter a day starting on the 1st of December
and ending on Christmas day.
Jesus Storybook Bible Reading Plan
Jesus Storybook Bible Advent Calendar

2. The Christmas Novena
Sarah and Elizabeth are all excited for this Christmas novena.
I wanted to do something that will require me to pause daily.
At midnight.. In piercing cold are words that truly tug at my heart.
It chokes me up to think of any of my children being born
in such cruel and harsh conditions.
Poor baby Jesus. And heartbreaking for Mother Mary and St. Joseph.
Tug tug tug!
So yeah, maybe this will be a good novena for me to pray this year.

Hail and blessed be the hour and moment
in which the Son of God was born
of the most pure Virgin Mary,
at midnight, in Bethlehem, in piercing cold.
In that hour, vouchsafe, O my God
to hear my prayer and grant my desires,
through the merits of Our Saviour Jesus Christ,
and of His Blessed Mother. Amen.
* Pray 15x daily from the 30th of Nov until Christmas Day*

3. The O Antiphons
The O Antiphons are a seven day countdown to Christmas.
It celebrates seven Messianic titles of Jesus.
We pray it to remind ourselves and to invite the Lord to "Come"

4. Luke 2:1-20
Misty's home has this Advent tradition of reading Luke 2 daily.
Twice a day, the kids read Luke 2 with the intention of
memorizing the verses. In a few years, the kids will have
known the Birth of Jesus verses by heart. Sounds promising!

5. Christmas books and carols

So yeah, we've been reading Christmas themed books as
early as end October. I envy those moms who have enough
books for a proper Christmas book basket. Almost all our
Christmas books are borrowed from the library. We started
early as there is no way of knowing what will be available
in December.

Just about the same time, we started singing Christ-centered
Christmas Carols for bedtime.
M: Mama what does faithful mean?
Me: Why do you ask?
(All the while wondering why he was asking)
M: Because -- O come all ye faithful
Me: Oh, that means people who believe in God
(Whew, relieved that it did not involve anything "age appropriate")

6. Give up and Give more
Give up and Give more is an annual tradition in The Feast
that we attend. In a nutshell, sacrifice on a few simple
pleasures and donate the money to a worth cause.

At the barest level, give up some of your ME time and
pray more for/with someone who really needs it.

7. Go to Confession and Attend Mass

Attending mass is a basic thing for hubby and I. It's as basic as

eating and sleeping. It isn't something that I originally thought
of putting here. But maybe this is here for someone else???
Confession is something we try to do once a quarter.
I pray that availing of the sacraments is ingrained in the kids.
Something that is part and parcel of their lifelong relationship
with Christ. All with God's grace.

Some moms have wisely said that all you need are 1-3
Christmas traditions. Anything more is extra.

What traditions do you have in your family? What are your plans
for Christmas 2014? Til next time, stay blessed!

Christmas Activities for Kids 2012

Last year, I attempted to make an origami Nativity Scene. In a nutshell,
it didn't go very well. So, I decided to look for more "artistically-friendly"
projects for this year.

Here's a round-up of activities that really got me inspired. Click on the
links for the how-tos :)

Nativity Scenes

This DIY Nativity Scene by Marloes de Vries is one of the easiest projects
around. All you need to do is cut, fold then glue the images. How simple
is that!

If you've got spare toilet paper tubes, Catholic Icing's Nativity Set is the project
for you.

Christmas Calendars

Here's a cute Santa Calendar from Maestra Valentina. The kids can
cut off the portion of Santa's beard that corresponds to the date. You
know it's Christmas when you've reached Santa's nose!

This Santa Calendar from Busy Little Bugs is great for the little kids. They
can put a pompom ball or sticker on the dates leading up to Christmas.

This is one of those things on my wish list. Homemade by Jill's Advent
Calendar is one of those labor of love projects. It's all hand sewn.
The tree ornaments stay in the box and a new one is hung up each day.

Jesse / Christmas Trees

Tired and Need Sleep has a Jesse Tree 2012 printable: included are
the readings, prayers and ornaments needed for your Jesse Tree.

Here's another project for the little kids. This Felt Christmas Tree by
Sol and Rachel allows your little one to decorate and redecorate the tree.

Activity Packs

We'll be using some of the activities here for our homeschooling this
December. But kiddies who're on "traditional school" holiday break
can join in on the fun!

1+1+1=1 Christmas Tot Pack

1+1+1=1 Nativity Preschool Pack

Nativity and Winter Wonderland Packs by Over the Big Moon

It's beginning to feel like Christmas in our home. We've been listening to
Christmas Songs and finalizing Christmas plans.  All we need is our
Christmas Tree. Yes, I'm still hopeful that we'll get one this year.


Photo Credit


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Christmas Traditions 2012

If I had my way, the Christmas Tree would already be up. Unfortunately, we
still haven't had time to buy the tree. And with all the other stuff that needs
to be bought (we have a baby on the way), I have considered making our
own Christmas Tree.

It's sad how many have become disillusioned with Christmas. For some,
Christmas has become one giant party gone overboard. One thing I've
learned is that you don't have to do what everyone else is doing. Just do
what makes sense to you.

The Gingerbread House

Every year, I look forward to Market Manila's Christmas posts. I must admit,
Christmas at Market Man's home is a bit grand for my current budget. But
I can still dream right. I love the decor, the tables, the menu, and all
the little details that lovingly go into their Christmas celebrations.

One thing unique about their family is that they create their own
Gingerbread House. They also create a few for select organizations to
spread some Holiday Cheer.

The Advent Wreath
When I was younger, the Advent Wreath served as our family's reminder
that Christmas was just around the corner. We would gather as a family,
sing "O Come, O Come, Emanuelle", light the candles and say the prayers.
This is one tradition that I just might bring back this year. Church Year
has a weekly guide that is easy to follow.

The Advent Activity Tree
Speaking of Advent, The Imagination Tree has this beautiful post on how
their family is celebrating Advent. The family does one activity daily
together; all these leading up to Christmas day.

The December Daily
The December Daily is Ali Edwards annual December scrapbooking project.
It's a great way to document the many activities that go on in your family in
December. You might want to read Ali's must read post on the simple things
that make for nice Christmas memories. The things we take for granted that
count too.

The Christmas Mini Album
I know, not all of us are ready for daily scrapbooking. Paper Vine has this
How To on creating a Paper Mini Album. This can be a special way to store
your favorite Christmas Photos.

Yes, having a Christmas Tree is tradition on both sides of the family. But it
is just icing on the cake. In our family, Christmas is about celebrating the
Birth of Christ. Come to think of it, we don't need a tree to celebrate that.

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Christmas Color Themes 2012

Christmas is just around the corner. Oooh, love it!

The last quarter of 2011 was a such big adjustment for the family that I
didn't get to properly prepare for last year's Christmas. This year, I'm
planning ahead and devoting the Fridays of November to Christmas
Planning for 2012. There will be a few areas that I'd like to touch on.
I'm splitting things up into weekly projects so that it's all more manageable.

I'll start by sharing with you some Christmas decorating ideas that you
can easily do for your home. I know, it's a lot easier to just go to the store,
buy a tree then buy a box of ornaments. However, putting in that little extra
effort will help add character and personality to your holiday decor.

Start by choosing a a color theme. If you dont have the time, nor patience
nor budget for things, this is the one idea that could up your game. Think
of your Christmas Color Theme as your base; the one unifying factor for
your decor.

Christmas Color Themes for 2012

1. Red and Gold
The red and gold color theme is such a classic. It's a very nostalgic color
theme for many. You can freshen up red and gold by choosing a few pieces
and presenting them in a different way.

Christmas Balls have traditionally been reserved to the Christmas Tree.
Dabney freshened things up by placing the balls in a bowl and using them as
a table centerpiece. 

Fresh Poppy Design hand made these glitter balls and hung them up on the 

curtain rod. If you're the crafty type, this will be an easy peasy project
for you.

33 Shades of Green used a few candles and transformed them into these
fabulous mood setters.

2. Blue and Silver
Blue and silver is the way to go if you want a classic Christmas Color
Theme that's sophisticated and crisp. There are many shades of blue.
The trick to this theme is finding a shade that's perfect for you.

Wrapping empty boxes and placing them under the tree is an easy
to replicate Christmas decor "cheat". Maintaing the same festive shade
of blue for the presents and balls keeps things nicely coordinated.

Why not use a blue and silver Christmas wreath to welcome guests into your
home? Make the Best of Things has a tutorial on how she created this one.

Inspiration for Home shows us how decorating the table for the holidays can
be as simple as adding a few ornaments and bows.

3. Tiffany Blue and Chocolate Brown
If I had my way, I'd have more pieces in chocolate brown; clothes, personal
items and Christmas decor. It's a shade of brown that's not easy to come by
which makes the color more dear to me. I know, blue and brown is a popular
wedding color theme. But it can make for an elegant Christmas Color Theme
as well.

Coco + Kelly can show us a thing or two on how easy it is to execute a blue
and brown Christmas Color Theme. It's all in the details!

What's Christmas without dessert? You can definitely pick up a few dessert
ideas from A Dozen Eggs' dessert buffet.

Check out Better Homes and Garden's Christmas feature on
holiday decorating in Blue and Brown. Focus on one or two elements
to keep it budget friendly.


We have yet to decide on which color theme we'll go with. Which
Christmas Color Theme will you be using in your home this year?


Photo Credit
poppet


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Merry Christmas 2011 : Emmanuel by Fr. Manoling Francisco, SJ

Emmanuel by Fr. Manoling Francisco, SJ

Isang dalaga'y maglilihi
Batang lalaki ang sanggol
Tatawagin Siyang Emanuel
Emanuel

Isang dalaga'y maglilihi
Batang lalaki ang sanggol
Tatawagin Siyang Emanuel
Emanuel

Magalak isinilang ang Poon
Sa sabsaban Siya'y nakahimlay
Nagpahayag ang mga anghel
"Luwalhati sa Diyos!"

Isang dalaga'y maglilihi
Batang lalaki ang sanggol
Tatawagin Siyang Emanuel
Emanuel

Isang dalaga'y maglilihi
Batang lalaki ang sanggol
Tatawagin Siyang Emanuel
Emanuel

Isang dalaga'y maglilihi
Batang lalaki ang sanggol
Tatawagin Siyang Emanuel
Emanuel

Kahuluga'y "Nasa atin ang Diyos!"
"Nasa atin ang Diyos!"
"Nasa atin ang Diyos!"

- - -

Kuya B (3 yrs. old): "Mama, whose birthday is it?"
Kuya B's Mom: "Anak, we're celebrating the birthday of Jesus."

I had not heard those words mentioned in a looooonnnnnnggggg time.
So much so that I consider myself blessed to have been reminded of
the true reason for Christmas.

A Blessed Christmas to you and your family!

Glee Baby It's Cold Outside

It looks like our fave Christmas Song is gonna make an interesting comeback :)

The December Daily Project

Today, December 1, allow me to revisit my 101 Things to Do in 1001 Days post.
Why??? Because it's time to decide on what to do with Artsty Fartsy
# 11- Make a 2010 Christmas Journal (inspired by Ali Edwards and Molly Irwin).

A few weeks ago, I was chewing on the idea of making a 2010 December
Daily. However, I knew I had to stay true to myself aka magpa-totoo ka!
I knew that there was no way that I could finish this beautiful project without
"inflicting self-hurt". So much to do, so little time! Thus, I have decided on a
"cheat" --- I will just do a December Daily Photo project! Let's see how that goes.


Photo Credit

shimelle

Hurray! The Christmas Tree is Half-Done!

I've mentioned it here and here, I just love Christmas!

I've been too busy to properly prepare for Christmas this year. But that's not
about to dampen my mood. I've always enjoyed Christmas! This Christmas
is significant as it will be our first Christmas with M.

They started putting up the TREE today. Here's what it looks like half-done.
Can't wait for it to be finished!

Oh yes, I have not started shopping at all! Honestly, the LIST has been
trimmed down since the pregnancies. You could say that I have finally
transitioned into mommyhood.

I love Christmas!

This song just put a smile on my face! Im soooo looking forward to Christmas 2010!

8 Things You Can Do for Your Houseguests

Today is the start of the "ber" season. That means only one thing - Christmas
is just around the corner. Today also marks the start of my Preparing for the
Holidays 2010 posts.

I hope my Preparing for the Holidays 2010 posts will help make your Christmas
Planning an enjoyable experience!

Let me start with: 8 Things You Can Do for Your Houseguests

Any Pinoy can attest to the fact that we have a culture of having family and
friends stay over at our homes. Normally, it's a balikbayan (a term for a
Filipino based overseas who's gone home to the Philippines for one reason or
another) who's visiting for the Holidays. Here's a great article that will
help you provide your loved ones with a more comfortable stay:

8 Things Your Houseguests Wont Tell You:

"If you haven't gone into the guest bedroom since you stored last season's
clothes, it's time for a quick makeover. Here are room-decorating ideas that
will fix any faux pas, just in time for weekend visitors.

1. My water glass left a ring on the bedside table.

When you look for a nightstand, choose one that you don't have to worry
about. If you want people to feel relaxed and comfortable, you can help
by designing their room to be as low-maintenance as possible. A table
with a glass top won't leave rings.

2. After turning out the lights, I bruised my knee climbing into bed.

Instead of harsh overhead lighting, try bedside sconces. Not only do they
cast a soft, soothing light, guests won't have to negotiate their way back
to bed in an unfamiliar space.

3. I'm hungry.

Guests don't want to be caught rummaging through your fridge. Leaving a
small piece of fruit, like an orange or an apple, will curb their craving
for a midnight snack.

4. I woke up at the crack of dawn.

Blackout shades are a great option for guest rooms. They work well when
you want to sleep in late, and can also create a darkened, cool room on
a summer afternoon.

5. I hate the giant bouquet.

Don't overwhelm a tiny table with a large bouquet. Just a few buds will
give guests enough room to place their essentials — and won't bring on
an onslaught of allergies.

6. I worry about waking you up.

Guests won't fret about walking around on creaking floors or disturbing
you every time they get up if you throw down a plush rug. It also helps
to warm up the space.

7. I'm really cold at night, or I'm uncomfortably hot.

Here's the secret to a perfectly prepared bed: Start with great cotton
sheets, add a cotton coverlet, then finish with a down duvet on top. That
combination offers enough flexibility to deal with the most extreme
temperature swings. Think a down comforter is pricey? Check Ikea for
affordable ones.

8. I can't find a place to charge my phone.

Guests shouldn't have to scramble down on all fours in order to find an
outlet. Add a conveniently placed power strip or a docking station.

- Yahoo"