When it comes to decorations, I am a less-is-more-kind-of-girl. No blow-ups or outside Christmas light strands, no attic full of boxes of decorations. A pretty wreath, an average-sized tree, and a few simple trinkets. I do depart from my own simple decoration philosophy when it comes to one thing. I am a sucker for advent calendars. Seriously, we have a Jesse tree, a traditional Advent wreath, Trader Joe’s chocolate Advent calendars for each child, a set of Advent prints, and my children’s favorite, the Lego Advent Calendar (thanks, momma for introducing us to that 24-day drug).

I know, I know, its a bit excessive, but I adore Advent. I love how Advent reminds us that we are a waiting people and teaches me how to wait expectantly and patiently. I love how Advent teaches us to number our days as we watch the pregnant days come to fullness. I pray…