Advent “Ahhhhh”

How’s it going so far? Advent flurry kicked in yet? If not, brace yourself. Next Sunday is Christ the King and then it’s downhill all the way until you are drowning in mince pies and eggnog, and if another person asks if you’re ‘ready for the big day’ you’ll throw your Carols for Choirs at them.

So before you get arrested for Aggravated Descant with Intent to hit Top G, how about some Christmas colouring for your festive fluster? Some Advent “Ahhhhh”?

Colouring is a great leveller – everyone can do it (and it’s not just for kids). Old and young, on your own or in a family, artistic or not, all of us can slow down our minds and let ourselves sit quietly for a few minutes.

And it’s not an art competition, so it doesn’t matter if you go over the lines or you leave some bits out. Think of it as a prayer with pencils. Let the words wash over you and give them time to sink in. Or simply spend time with people who matter, and thank God for them.

Which is your favourite?

Each set comes in three sizes. Print on stout paper or card and cut along either outline for a rectangle or arch-shaped card. Here are some ideas for how to use them:
Large size
• Hand-made Christmas cards. Why not try a different medium, such as watercolour, for a change?
• Send blank with coloured pens as a Christmas craft gift.
Medium size
• Blessing cards – hand-write blessing prayers on the back and drop them round your neighbours’ houses, or enclose one with a Christmas card.
• Invitations – home of church events, here’s the perfect size for that.
Small size
• Gift tags for presents.
• Christmas tree decorations – write or draw a prayer inside each one.