The Thanksgiving Bookshelf is stocked and we're gearing up for lots of cozy read-alouds with Hot Cider and popcorn by the fire as we approach our country's beloved and oldest holiday! There are so many lovely Feasts and Celebrations ahead of us as we meander through November and feel the solemn mood of darkening days and head into Advent.
One of my children's favorites is the Feast of Martinmas that comes on this Saturday, November 11th! We've already started preparing for our day by re-reading our Saints stories and making pictures and narrations. 
Here is Matthias's Picture and Narration:
Martin was a soldier in France. One day, he and some other soldiers were going home when they met a poor man dressed in rags. "We must help that man," said Martin, "or he will die in the cold weather, for he does not have a thick cloak like we do." "What are you going to do?" asked another soldier. Martin took his cloak and cut it in two, giving half to the poor man and keeping the other half.
That night, when Martin was in bed, he saw the man by his bed, he was Jesus. "Martin," said Jesus, "when you help others, you are helping me." "I was the man you gave half your cloak to." Martin did good things for the rest of his life, and when he died, the Church made him a Saint.
The children are already practicing and rehearsing a special St. Martin's Day drama which will certainly delight us! We hope to make some beautiful lanterns, such as those described in Mrs. Sharp's Traditions, and process around our neighborhood to illuminate our way and sing of the praises of this good Saint! I imagine there will be a new Craft Spoon Saint of St. Martin of Tours as well! We will also be remembering all of the Brave Men and Women who serve to keep our country safe and those who have gone before them for Veteran's Day! I imagine our flag will also be flying high for these Saints in the making!
Other Feasts we're looking forward to in addition to Thanksgiving, are St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, St. Albert the Great, St. Rose Duchesne, St. Margaret of Scotland, St. Elizabeth of Hungary, The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Feast of Christ the King, St. Andrew the Apostle. I assure you there are no shortage of celebrations before we reach Advent and our time of waiting for our Blessed Saviour!
Praise God from whom all blessings flow,
Praise Him all creatures here below,
Praise Him above Ye Heavenly Host,
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!
Amen.
As we tuck in for these shorter days and longer nights, may we always remember that the Light of the World is always with us. May God bless you in your day!
Meredith, this is such a lovely post! Please tell Matthias we enjoyed his narration very much! It sounds like you have a wonderful Martinmas planned - wish we were neighbors and could join you! Have fun!
Posted by: Dawn | Friday, November 10, 2006 at 05:39 AM
What a perfect way to celebrate! I especially loved Matthias' articulate narration and vibrant picture. Just wonderful!
Posted by: Alice Gunther | Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 10:19 PM