It’s Advent Calendar Time in Shady Pines
Do You Have Your Advent Calendar?
Oh, boy, the big day will be here before we know it!
The countdown to Christmas is on here in Shady Pines Story Town. Have you seen the advent calendars? They're popping up everywhere.
These are the calendars that kids love because they have a hidden treat or toy behind every day of the week from the first of December right up to Christmas Eve.
Hi everyone, Zulah Talmadge with you for The Shady Pines Gazette News.
Now that Thanksgiving is in our rear view mirror the holiday season is in full gear.
What Is The Season of Advent?
Do you know about the Season of Advent and the reason why these calendars are fun for kids and adults alike? Let's start at the beginning. Traditionally, the Season of Advent begins on the final Sunday in November and lasts into that third week in December.
It has been seen by Christians around the world as a way to get ready for the coming birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas. That's why each day on an Avent Calendar is its own celebration to reflect the joy and hope of this very special season.
You also may even see Avent Wreaths with four or five purple, pink and white candles. Like the calendars, these wreaths are also used to symbolize a scared time of year. Each candle has a separate meaning.
Typically, during the Season of Advent, one candle on the wreath is lit each Sunday as a part of Sunday church services. But you don't have to be a practicing Christian to honor the spirit of Advent.
Advent Calendars Are All Different
These days, most Advent Calendars have numbered paper doors or pockets that open to reveal an image, chocolate or other small object. Some of the folks here in Shady Pines will hide messages of kindness, caring and love behind those colorful doors.
There is no one way to make a calendar. They look as different as the people who create them. 
For instance, a long time ago you might have seen a really old fashioned calendar that looks like your great, great, grandmother might have made it.
These days, there all kinds of Advent Calendars you can buy or make for yourself. But one thing remains the same. 
These holiday calendars are fun. And just like the spiritual theme of the season, they offer anticipation, and the joy of discovery.
How to Use an Advent Calendar
Hey parents, these calendars are something you can use to keep the kids busy. They're also a way to promote conversation around issues you might want to discuss.
We did a story for The Gazette not long ago about parents and grandparents who are concerned that kids are more focused on getting toys, video games and stuff for Christmas, rather than what they can do for others in need.
It's normal for kids to get so excited while waiting for Christmas to arrive. But, in 2022 the economy has some of our neighbors facing real challenges. You might want to consider using an Advent Calendar to focus those young people in your life on what you and your family value most.
That's what we try to do each and every day here in the small Southern town of Shady Pines!