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One of the things I like about the shorter winter days is that it allows for more opportunities to read. Although I am constantly contending with the kids’ gadgets, from the DS to the Xbox, Wii and computer, we have run across a few fantastic books lately that have captivated them even more than Mario and Luigi (gasp)!
First is The Squire and the Scroll:
When the boys saw that was a somewhat long story (for a picture book) they let out a collective groan “no mooooomm!” By the end, my youngest was on his feet and only inches from the page as the story came to a dramatic climax. I loved it because it teaches the importance of staying true to your morals and living virtuously. Here is a brief description: “Children will gain valuable insight as they learn, along with the young squire, what it means to face the dangers of temptation, and what it takes to guard one’s heart from all that is impure.”
The second book is a little late to tie-in to the Christmas season, but a timeless story nonetheless. It’s called: “The Carpenter’s Gift”
The Carpenter’s Gift tells the story of eight-year-old Henry and his out-of-work father selling Christmas trees in Depression-era New York. They give one of their leftover trees to construction workers building Rockefeller Center. That tree becomes the first Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
If you long to have your children understand how far our country has come and the blessings we often take for granted today, this is a home run. We all left the book feeling a little more encouraged by the goodwill of neighbors and the value of hard work and kindness.
Also,
A big thanks to Karen who sent a tip about the sacrifice beads that I blogged about last week. She writes:
I heard about the sacrifice beads and knew I had to have them. I did a search and found a website, littleways.com. They will send you a kit to make one or send you the materials to make one yourself.
I am not Roman Catholic and I wanted to know if they had other crosses besides the Crucifix. I got a reply within 12 hrs. that they have a few alternatives. I wanted to pass this on so you may pass this on to others that they can be found other places than easy.
Thanks so much Karen! The boys have been asking for their own set as well, and I may just order a few kits of the website. Tip appreciated!
I was interested in the sacrifice beads and used the link from Karen – but it isn't correct. The correct link is http://www.thelittleways.com. Enjoy!