Advent Calendar!

The origins of the Advent calendar come from German Lutherans who, at least as early as the beginning of the 19th century, would count the days of Advent physically. Often this meant simply drawing a chalk line on the door each day, beginning on December 1. Some families had more elaborate means of marking the days, such as lighting a new candle or hanging a little religious picture on the wall each day.

Advent calendars have come a long way. What was once a chalky countdown, has become an elaborately designed poster with perforated panels that open to reveal chocolates and a narrative about how Christmas came to be.

Sure, it's sort of like making a movie about the Titantic: you know how it's going to end, but you can't help but watch (or read as the case may be). Each day, as more of the story unfolds, I wonder if more will be revealed. Was Mary cranky about no room at the inn? Did the wise men question the length of their flowy robes as they navigated a donkey-pooped manger floor?

Was Jesus born with a shock of red hair that left Joseph scratching his head?

I'm only 6 days into this years calendar (a chocolate/narrative model; an improvement over last years which was calorie-free) and the suspense is killing me. Me and Foo will keep you posted.