Last year, we shared pictures of a day spent at a friend's house crafting and baking for the Feast of St. Nicholas. We continued the tradition this year with many of the same activities, but a few new twists as well.
There were cookies to cut:
Mexican God's Eye Ornaments (the perfect simple and inexpensive craft to make in advance of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe):
We brought our traditional sled full of cookies:
And taught the children how to make these easy Take Along Mangers in Miniature reminiscent of last year's craft. (For details and materials, please see today's post at O Night Divine):
This little project was engaging for the older ones, but simple enough for a three-year-old:
And speaking of simple, my friend Mary taught the children to make these religious ornaments--cardboard discs embellished with holy images and trim:
Look how the baby has grown! It made me laugh to realize she is wearing the same outfit, only now she has grown into Maureen's dress from last year!
St. Nicholas, patron of children, pray for us!
Oh Alice, I love your take-away manger. Such a wonderful idea. Thank you Clarice
Posted by: clarice | December 15, 2007 at 12:37 PM
What great ideas to ignite our Christmas spirit this coming week.
Posted by: patience | December 15, 2007 at 03:50 PM
Can I pretend to be 16 again and be adopted by you??? I love all the wonderful crafts you do with the children around all the saints feasts day. I am holding my breath in anticipation for St. Patrick's day. Also how about "La Fheile Bhride" which is Irish for St. Bridgets Day on February 1st and was known as one of the most remarkable women of her times.
I got back to work on Monday after a number of months on disability, lots of prayers would be appreciated.
Hugs,
Leona
Posted by: Leona | December 15, 2007 at 05:33 PM
Wish I still lived in New York, so I could join in your craft day! The kids look like they're having so much fun! I also had the fun of passing down the Christmas turtlenecks I bought last year to the next boy down the line!
Posted by: Mary Beth P | December 15, 2007 at 05:39 PM
I want to come to your house for St. Nicholas Day! Or barring that, I want a dear friend in my town to come bake and craft with me - that would be WONDERFUL.
Posted by: Beck | December 15, 2007 at 08:44 PM
How sweet. That last picture is darling!
Posted by: Kristen Laurence | December 17, 2007 at 12:37 PM
Alice,
I love the little manger baskets. I have all the materials to make some with my children except for the tiny baskets. Where did you find them? I've checked Walmart, JoAnns, and Ben Franklin so far with no luck. We would love to make these for all of the cousins!
Posted by: Samantha | December 19, 2007 at 02:28 AM