I recently came across the book, Around the Year with the Von Trapp Family and love it, so if you are trying to make the most of the liturgical season in a traditional Catholic way in your home, this is a great read with many suggestions.
Maria Von Trapp, yes, is the young woman who started out trying to become a nun, then became a governess to Captain von Trapp's children and then the stepmother to all the children after marrying the Captain. The family was a singing family who later came to America to escape the Nazi's in Austria.
She wrote several books, which I hope to read but right now I have just started Around the Year.
In this book many Advent traditions are discussed such as the Advent wreath, Christmas wheat, Advent hymns, St. Barbara's Day, The Christmas Crib, recipes and more.
She also talks about remembering St. Nicholas Day and one comment she says which is very interesting is, "Something happened to him on his way from Europe to America". Isn't that so true. So many countries with a good Catholic history still maintain this feast day, that unfortunately somehow never made it to America.
So far, all that I have read in this book, copyrighted 1955, comes from a traditional Catholic view, mostly because she didn't know any thing else probably. So, perhaps if you are like me this is just that what you are looking for.
Maria von Trapp's view of Advent also is one of penance, which is what this time is about. Not as much as Lent, but there is to be an attitude of penance and spiritual growth.
No matter the size of your family, make Advent a time to draw closer to Christ while waiting for His coming.
Below is a link to the book at Amazon.
God bless and pray the rosary.
