A Second Pause in Advent 2010

So Advent feels like it's really begun, now. It's been an enormous pleasure, taking out the traditonal count-down decorations - in fact when I was a bit late getting organised this year, Son 2 started complaining:
j
'Notice anything MISSING, mum?'
I hastily put everything into place...The Advent wreath and candle are new this year, though. The one that features on the left here, in our Pause in Advent logo, has been getting steadily shabbier as little bits of candle wax and burnt patches have been added to it over the years. Ben, who likes things looking good (see next week's shelf post) rebelled against using it for another Advent, and went out to produce this simple but really very pleasing log candle-holder.

I decorated it with garden greenery (and of course with what Ben calls 'reddery'), some candles from the stash and the new Advent candle which is the twin of the one burning at Sarah's house in the UK - she tells me her giveaway prize arrived and has been admired by the church youth group!

j

There doesn't seem to be much 'reflection' in this post - just the realisation that family traditions, new and old, provide a sense of contentment and stability, however busy or complicated the times. They keep us in touch with each other and build up the wondering anticipation of what is coming.

j

Please do go and visit the other Pause in Advent bloggers - how wonderful to have increasing numbers on board! You are still welcome to join in by leaving a comment on this post. Have a great week.