A Christmas Tree tradition on Gaudete Sunday

Today is the day that we usually put up our Christmas tree. We have been lighting purple candles on our Advent wreath everyday for the past 2 weeks and now it is a time to rejoice. Pink is the color of the day because soon our Savior will be born.

" Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice! The Lord is near." (Phil 4:4,5)

This year Becky began a new tradition. She, Amy, and Laura strung a garland of popcorn and cranberries. I have always thought that this would be fun to do, but we never seemed to get to it, but thankfully, Becky "got" to it this year. Thanks Beck!

It is such a pretty addition to the tree.

While we decorate the tree, we always like to light a roaring fire and listen to Christmas music.

This is easily achieved by tuning into channel 799 on our digital tv.

After "lighting" the fire, everyone got busy. Daddy always gets the lights on the tree first, and then Mom puts on garland. This year it is our cranberries and popcorn, and a paper chain that has survived for the last few years.

Lastly, all the kids put on the decorations, many of them handmade for Christmases past. Kim and Luke did a great job helping. Luke carefully put all the big "balls" on the tree. Later, when I wasn't looking, he collected them back up into his arms to play with. He was not happy that they have to stay on the tree.
Lastly, the star went up. Here you can see Daddy and Patrick debating its perfect placement.

There were only 8 kids here today for this annual event, but Becky and Matt were certainly here in spirit.