Move Over Picasso!

What an inspiring event during the rain/slush/ice/snow storm. Over 300 pieces of divinely inspired art from artists 2 months old through ten years old. What a great way to contemplate how to become like little children, wide eyed and fully responsive, as we make our way to the manger. Some of the art will hang through Christmas. Take time to be in awe of Christ working in and through little ones here at Central

Encore! Encore!

"The Miracle on Main Street" musical was so awesome that there will be an encore! What a fresh way to hear the Christmas message - funny and thought provoking at the same time. Standing ovations to the wonderful performers.Special thanks to Renae Laugen and Laura Babneau for their great leadership, and kudos to Mayor Jake!

Popcorn Prayers

Here's another way of praying together with your family. I'm a little hesitant to call this prayer the popcorn prayer, because a good friend told me that after introducing the sandwich prayer to her son, every night he thanks God for meat!
Here's how the popcorn prayer works: someone is designated as a starter and someone else as an "amen"-er. Anything that happens in between is up to you, the kids and how God leads you. There can be thanks and praise and requests all mixed together. Just one short little prayer at a time - just one sentence. The reason it's called a popcorn prayer is because when corn is popping in a pan, you never know which kernel will be the one to go next - and you'll never know who be next when you pray like this. One person might even go two or three times in a row. Happy praying! (Amanda might have to have a little bedtime snack of popcorn before using this one with Grant!)

Check Out These Great Ideas for Christmas Alternatives

I've been getting caught up in the spirit of the season. The tree is decorated, my favorite Christmas tunes in my head . . . now it's on to presents. Check out these alternative ideas to spending tons of money, but instead, to spend time (don't worry - it doesn't have to be during this busy season - it can be a promise for later.) At any rate, some of you have seen these two at the Parenting for Real Life! workshop or at a MOPS meeting last spring, Jim and Lynne Jackson.

Happy Birthday, Baby Jesus!

Oh, what fun we had with the two year olds and Baby Jesus. They each got to take a little baby Jesus home with them (compliments of Billie Evenson who stitched them all using little socks). A little hay to play with, a shoe box for a manger, a bite sized cupcake and a candle to blow out. Two year-olds are so excited about everything. Helps you to realize what Jesus means when He ways we need to become like little children to inherit the kingdom. Wonder what all those little two year olds will learn about loving Jesus by caring for the Manger Baby this Christmas.