the first day

December first...
An important day in the life of my children... a holiday all its own.
The day when they peel back a numbered door and begin counting down the days... til Christmas. 
And there is nothing like that first day, even though the joy continues for 23 more. 

This year, they each have their own.  I had debated about the Lego Advent calendar for Cam... but Richella convinced me.  There aren't too many more years... and she is right.  So Camden will build his way towards Christmas, loving every minute of it.

And Laura? 
Hers is extra special.  Made by... me.  Thank goodness I started early!  In each box she will find... a note from me, and a little trinket or piece of candy.  Just for fun.  And along the way, I hope she will dig into her bible and look up the verses I've hidden.

We will count down the days... we will light the candles and we will read.  Celebrating Advent soothes the waiting... cuts the suffering out of patience... and laces the days of December with joy.