This season is a time for many things. It’s a time for colored lights, sparkling trees, warm drinks, favorite songs, and—hopefully—gently falling snow. But most importantly, this is the season to rejoice over the greatest blessing of all: Jesus Christ came to live among us. And through His sacrifice we have comfort and joy. Enjoy this […]
Christmas
10 Ways to Make Christmas Memories
One of my earliest Christmas memories is of sitting with my family as we read aloud The Story of Christmas, a children’s book full of captivating illustrations depicting Christ’s birth with text from Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2. Why is this memory so vivid to me? Probably because my family repeats this scene every year. No matter […]
The Story Behind Benjamin’s Sling
When JourneyForth approached me about writing a Christmas picture book, I jumped at the chance. What could be more enjoyable? I loved writing, I loved the poetic possibilities of the picture book genre, and I loved Christmas. Of course, this was something I wanted to do. But as I tossed around ideas for the project […]
The Gift of the Gospel
In 1858, Francis Ridley Havergal visited a museum in Dusseldorf, Germany, and viewed a painting depicting the crucifixion. Next to the painting was this caption: “I did this for thee; what hast thou done for Me?” That question inspired her to write the poem that became the text of the hymn “I Gave My Life for Thee.”1 […]
Benjamin’s Sling
In searching for a new Christmas story for K4 through beginning readers, I was deeply impressed when I discovered Eileen Berry’s Benjamin’s Sling. Initially, I saw it as a fresh, beautifully, simple children’s Christmas story. But as I read further, I unearthed abundantly satisfying answers to some of life’s most complex and timeless questions. Perhaps like […]
Stories for Christmas
Like most homeschool families, you’re probably taking off a large chunk of time during the month of December. That’s great since it gives everyone time for focusing on family and celebrating Christmas, but even on vacation, you’re looking for places to sneak in a bit of learning without your kids realizing it. On those cold December […]
Remember These Dates in December
December may be the last month of our calendar year, but it’s definitely not the least important one. Whenever I think of this month, I see visions of steamy hot cocoa (with extra marshmallows), car rides at night to see Christmas lights, and conversations with loved ones around the dining room table. Growing up, I spent […]