Last night, we celebrated Thanksgiving, round #4.  Justin’s family came to the house for turkey, dressing (that’s what us southerners call stuffing), and the works.  In the past few days I have had pumpkin pie, chocolate chip poundcake, butterfinger pie, and oreo cheesecake.  In other news, that whole “high protein, low carb” diet to deal with my hypoglycemia is going well.

As I write this post, we are gearing up for an Iron Bowl party this afternoon.  That’s Alabama vs. Auburn, in case you aren’t from here.  And it’s big.  We take our rivalries real serious here in the south.

Our family is also gearing up for something else right now.  Advent.  I’m embarrassed to admit it, but until this past year, I wasn’t quite sure what Advent really was.  Just in case I’m not the only clueless one, let me explain.  Advent is the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas in which Christians prepare to celebrate Christmas.  The Jesus way, not the Santa way.

It’s a season of purposefully and expectantly preparing for Christ.  It’s a time of reminding ourselves we need a savior.

This year, I am following along with this devotional for Advent.  (The books are all sold out, but you can still download the digital version.  There is also an accompanying website here with videos and commentary.)

I am 50% finished with my Christmas shopping and am doing everything in my power to be 100% finished by Tuesday.  Remember how I made a goal to be all finished by December 1?  I want this Advent season to be all about family and faith, not stress over gifts I still need to buy.

Do you actively celebrate Advent?  Have tips?  Tell me, please!