Hosted by Like Mother, Like Daughter
{Pretty}
Our decorations have been up for a little while, but... you know...life with two small boys leaves little time for picture updates. I really am trying to be better!
Our Tree!! Before Stephen got at it. The bottom third of the tree now has large bare patches, punctuated by groups of ornaments that I made him pick up and put back on the tree. In a nice little addition, I also found the baby's teething ring hanging from a branch.
{Happy}
My little "happy Joe," as Stephen calls him. Seriously, is there ANYTHING cuter than a happy baby?
{Funny}
Steve and Stephen ventured out to create a snowman. Stephen got cold and was a little underwhelmed by the whole process.
But the result was fantastic. Just look at that handsome smile! (yes, Steve, I am talking about you! :) )
They used all the snow in the yard, as evidenced by the mud patch in front. Unfortunately our snowman has gone on to better, colder pastures... but hopefully he'll be back soon enough!
{Real}
Briefly, I just want to mention how very meaningful this Advent has been with a small baby in the house. I think that my Advent with Stephen was consumed with trying to figure out life as a new parent. This time around, both Steve and I are more relaxed and able to appreciate things as they come. Joseph's beautiful presence in our family brings my thoughts right to the stable and manger. How very vulnerable our Savior was... is... and He continues to teach me through His littleness.
There's a poem by Frances Chesterton (G.K's wife!) that we're singing in choir. I had never heard it before, but I'll copy it below.
Here is the little door.
Lift up the latch; O lift!
We need not wander more,
but enter with our gift.
A gift of finest Gold,
Gold that was never bought nor sold;
Myrrh to be strewn about his bed;
Incense in clouds about his head;
all for the Child who stirs not in his sleep,
but Holy slumber holds with ass and sheep.
Bend low about his bed: for each he has a gift!
See how his eyes awake--lift up your hands! O lift!
For Gold he gives a keen-edged sword (defend with it thy little Lord)!
For incense, smoke of battle red.
Myrrh for the honoured happy dead.
Gifts for his children, terrible and sweet,
Touched by such tiny hands and oh! such tiny feet.
Have a beautiful rest of Advent, everyone!
