Sunday, November 25, 2012

Christmas Books

I have so many posts swirling around in my head but this seemed the easiest and quickest to get out, considering our Christmas book box is sitting in the mudroom.  When we started our family I remember reading of others' traditions to buy a book a year, so as our children grew we would create a beloved Christmas Library.  Over the years we have been given books and I have bought books at thrift stores, garage sales and on Amazon,  Our collection is getting quite sizeable and I love nothing better than an early winter's evening with all of us on the couch reading our books.  Last year I wrapped all of our books and used them to count down the days to the big event.  The children had so much fun keeping me on track--"mom, you forgot to read today, again."  Yes, I am not perfect so some days we had to play catch-up and read 2 or 3 books.  So here is a smattering of our favorites:



One Wintery Night by Ruth Bell Graham

Room for a Little One by Martin Waddell & Jason Cockroft

The Tale of Three Trees by Angela Elwell Hunt

Hubs gave me this book when we were engaged.  The story tells of 3 trees with big dreams but those dreams turn out to be better than they ever imagined as the trees are cut down and fashioned into the image of our Lord.

The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg

'Twas the Night, The Nativity Story by Melody Carlson

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski

I love the pictures in this book, especially the one at the end where Mr. Toomey is throwing his head back in joyous laughter.  This is a touching story of overcoming loss and opening one's heart to what God brings to your door.

My First Little House Books Christmas in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

Christmas in the Manger by Nola Buck & Felicia Bond

Saint Nicholas, The Real Story of the Christmas Legend by Julie Stiegemeyer

The Twelve Days of Christmas by Jan Brett

Gingerbread Baby by Jan Brett

Just a fun book to read because of all the associated activities and lessons.  This year I am looking here for some educational activities and here for some baking inspiration for gingerbread bark.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson

When hubs first moved to Truckee he spent many nights with good friends reading this book, so it isn't just for kids. This particular family would cuddle up and take turns reading the story chapter by chapter.  The story is about the misadventures of one rebellious, undesirable family's infiltration into a church's Christmas pageant.  I have laughed so hard that tears have rolled down my face.

Jotham's Journey by Arnold Ytreeide

We take the Ytreeide books in small chunks the month before Christmas. These books are full of adventure and suspense wrapped in unpredicatable turns all leading to a little stable in Bethlehem.

Bartholomew's Passage by Arnold Ytreeide

Tabitha's Travels by Arnold Ytreeide

Christmas Stories for the Heart Complied by Alice Gray

I am sure the children would enjoy these short stories but this one is for the mommies.  Go hide in your room with a good cup of afternoon tea.

I am busy putting pen to paper for Christmas plans, from gifts to lessons this is a busy  time.  I beg the Lord's grace to myself and all of you as we decorate, shop, bake and wrap.  I strive to remember, it will all get done in His time, so don't loose sleep and stop to savor the little once a year moments that make up Christmas.

I am linking up with Montessori Monday.

Have a great week!

2 comments:

Deb Chitwood said...

Great book recommendations, Tammy! Reading Christmas books was always one of my favorite Advent activities. I pinned your post to my Kids' Christmas Activities Pinterest Board and added your link to my 40+ Christmas Countdown Activities at http://livingmontessorinow.com/2012/11/27/40-plus-christmas-countdown-activities/

Tammy G said...

Thank-you Deb and Merry Christmas!