Oops

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I was so busy preparing for Advent, I almost forgot it was...Advent. That kind of stuff happens to me all the time. Fortunately, I wasn't so busy preparing for Christmas that I forgot Advent -- that I would kick myself over. This, this was just a slight oversight. Which I caught in time.

I did order my candles way back when. And I did get the Advent wreath and Jesse tree and Advent calendar out of storage yesterday (two whole days early). And I did already buy three chocolate Advent calendars (Trader Joe's had them for around $1 each). I just forgot all the educational "stuff." And, sadly, that leaves me feeling incompetent. I have "I haven't done enough" syndrome this time of year, and if I haven't done everything there is to do, I have guilt. It's a setup for disaster. I'm working on it.

So, here is my best shot at this late date:

● A variety of Advent activities from Catholic mom.

● A good article with (manageable) activity suggestions.

● More Advent activities (do not be overwhelmed by all of these -- pick one).

● A variety of crafts and activities at Catholic Culture.com.

● And more crafts.

● And if all of that is just too much, sign up to have an activity emailed to you each and every day during Advent (a no-brainer if you ask me).

● A daily prayer and meditation for Advent -- yes, this is a must for mom!

● Make an Advent wreath: preschoolers here, and a little bit older here, or this one which I like even more, and for much older children here (who can gather materials and do this all by themselves!).

● To create a Jesse Tree.



I suppose putting this list together was therapeutic for me. I realize that doing it all is just not very practical, nor the point of Advent. Just do a little something that gets them thinking, and waiting, and preparing. That's the point of Advent.

And from catholicculture.com: "In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the season, let us strive to keep Advent a season of waiting and longing, of conversion and hope, meditating often on the incredible love and humility of our God in taking on flesh of the Virgin Mary. In our shopping and baking, let us remember to purchase and prepare something for the poor. When we clean our homes, let us distribute some of our possessions to those who lack many necessities. While we are decking the halls of our homes, let us not forget to prepare a peaceful place in our hearts wherein our Savior may come to dwell."

O Lord, stir up Thy might, we beg Thee, and come, That by Thy protection we may deserve to be rescued from the threatening dangers of our sins and saved by Thy deliverance. Through Christ our Lord.

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