CCP - May 2 News and Reminders

Dear CCP Families,

I hope this finds you well! Today is the National Day of Prayer so I prayed especially for you and your families. May you find joy and peace and experience God’s presence.

Next week, May 6-10, is Teacher Appreciation Week. I am so proud of our teachers for the creative and flexible ways they provide meaningful preschool experiences for your children. Each one of our teachers is a blessing! Please pray for them, send them a note of thanks and encouragement, or find other ways to show them your sincere appreciation. I think your parent representative will also be in touch with your class about other opportunities. Thank you!

If your child will return to CCP next year, have you paid your May 2025 prepaid tuition? It was due on May 1 and will be considered late on May 8 at 9:00 am! Thanks for paying your fees on time!

As we begin to wrap up our last month of preschool, several of our special classes will end. We will have our last Music and Chapel on May 15 & 16. The week of May 13 will also be our last lunches for all classes. There will be no lunches on the week of May 20th. Please mark your calendars.

This Sunday, May 5 at 4:00 your family is invited to a Spring Benevolence Concert in the Sanctuary followed by an ice cream reception! In lieu of an admission fee, you may make a donation to support Habitat and Weaver’s Grove.

Just FYI…I wanted to let you know that I will not be at preschool on Monday (May 6). Ms Melissa will be in the office, but she will arrive around 9:00-9:15 that day. Our capable staff will keep all things running smoothly.

Safekeepers, we have a staff meeting on Tuesday, May 7 at 12:30. Our generous PAC & families are providing your lunch that day! Thanks PAC! We will review our last session of Handling Upset. This meeting will run until about 2:00p

I’m sharing two articles with you below on helping children make choices. It’s important to keep preschool children’s choices to very simple decisions like, “Do you want to wear the red shirt or the blue shirt?” or “Would you like milk or water with lunch?” (Dr. Bailey calls this “offering two positive choices.”) Preschoolers should not have the responsibilty or pressure of larger decisions, like what time they go to bed, or whether or not they will attend family events, or what they can watch on T.V. They need you to be the parent and set routines and limits. Limits and routines actually offer children a sense of security. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/joyful-parenting/201602/5-guidelines-giving-kids-choices

https://www.empoweringparents.com/article/your-child-is-not-your-equal-why-you-have-to-be-the-boss/

Remember, also, to use all the free resources on Dr Becky Bailey’s website, www.consciousdiscipline.com to help you on your parenting journey!

I’m wishing you well,

Debbie

April 25, 2024 - CCP News & Reminders

Dear CCP Families,

Can you believe it will be May next week?? Our year is too quickly coming to a close - only one month of preschool left. It has been our honor and pleasure to teach and care for your precious children. Thank you for trusting us with this awesome responsibility! Make sure that you read all communications from your teachers. Sometime this month, they will explain the ways that we will celebrate the end of the year.

Thanks for coming to Preschool Sunday. We had a GREAT group that sang so well! Please know you are welcome to attend Christ Church ANY Sunday! They love to have preschool families attend. Thanks, too, for having dinner with us at Town Hall Grill. Hopefully soon I can update you on the amount of proceeds we received. We love THG!

Here are a few reminders:

• If you are returning to CCP next year, then your May 2025 prepaid tuition is due on May 1, 2024, and considered late on May 7th at noon. This payment covers May 2025 but is paid this month, almost like a security deposit. (When you set up your bank billpay for tuition next year, you will only set up payment for Sept - April.)

• Monday, April 29 is Pastor Ben’s birthday! If your child wants to make a card for him, I’ll be glad to deliver them.

• On Monday, April 29 we will welcome local author Sarah Chaires to read her new children’s book to us. It’s called Pepperoni Cookies: Fearful Fergus Learns to Try

• Ducks & Whales will have a field trip to the Planetarium on Tuesday, April 30. Read all communications from your teacher so you will have all the details!

• Please remember that the children are outside for at least 30-40 minutes each day.  When it is hot and sunny, you may want to apply sunscreen in the morning before coming to preschool.

• Thursday, May 2 is the National Day of Prayer. There will be some people meeting under the Bell Tower to pray together at 12:15. You are invited to join them either in person or in spirit.

• LOOKING AHEAD: Teacher Appreciation Week is May 6-10. Watch for an email from your class parent rep about some ways you can celebrate your teachers and show your appreciation.

From Dr. Bailey's Creating the School Family (p. 38) - If a child in a reward and punishment classroom shoves another student in line, he might lose points, miss recess or lose a trip to the treasure box.  [Debbie’s note - I have found that none of these strategies is effective. ] In a Conscious Discipline School Family, the teacher would coach the victim to say, "I don't like it when you shove.  Please walk behind me in line." Then the teacher would coach the shover by saying, "You wanted him to walk faster.  You may not shove.  When you want him to go faster, say 'Please move up closer to the others in line.'" (In other words, tell him what TO DO.) At CCP,  we believe in the importance of teaching children that their words have power.  If you learn that you can get your needs met with your words (an assertive voice,) then physical communication, like pushing and shoving, will eventually disappear. Try it at home! It DOES work, but realize that it takes practice and consistency.

Have a lovely weekend and I wish you well,

Debbie

April 18, 2024 Preschool Sunday, photos, and THG!

Hi CCP Families,

PHOTOS went very well. You will receive an email from postmaster@photospecialties.com This email will give you a link and password to view and purchase your photos. If you need help, the phone number for Photo Specialties is 919-967-9576.

PRESCHOOL SUNDAY is April 21 (this weekend!) Please bring your child to the Disciple room at 8:40 and then adults can find a seat toward the left side of the sanctuary for the 9:00 service. After the children sing, they will leave with the teachers and some adult helpers. The Frogs will go to the Frog room to play. The Ladybugs, Ducks, and Whales will go to the fellowship hall for some fun and learning. Near the end of the church service the Ladybugs, Ducks, & Whales will return to you in the sanctuary. You may pick up the Frogs in the Frog room after the service. There was a flyer with all the details in your cubbie on Monday or Tuesday this week. Please ask if you have questions.

PAC ZOOM - Monday, Apr. 22 at 7:30pm

CCP FELLOWSHIP NIGHT at TOWN HALL GRILL - On Tuesday, April 23 let’s have dinner together at THG! Bring your whole family anytime between 5:00-7:00pm. THG will give a portion of the proceeds from that night to Christ Church Preschool. It’s always fun to see friends outside of preschool. (I think some of our safekeepers are going to pop by, too!)

From Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline, p. 38 - “Acceptance means recognizing that people, situations and events are what they are. Each moment is simply as it is. Acceptance does not mean that we approve of the moment, only that we recognize what is happening.”

I wish you well,

Debbie

April 11 - CCP Information and Reminders

Dear CCP Families,

Welcome back! I hope you are enjoying the routine again after the excitement of spring break.

We were happy that the rain held off this morning and all classes got to play outside!

PRESCHOOL SUNDAY - Please arrive at 8:40 on Sunday, April 21. Parents, please bring your child to the Disciple room (where we have music with Ms. Vicki) to meet the teachers and me. Then adults may go have a seat in the Sanctuary. The children will sing early in the 9:00 service and then the teachers will take the Ladybugs, Ducks, & Whales across to the fellowship hall for some fun activities. They will take the Frogs to the nursery/Frog room. Please mark your calendar because we need ALL the beautiful little voices to make our joyful song! The service only lasts about an hour.

PAC - please note our meeting this month is April 22 at 7:30 on Zoom.

CCP FELLOWSHIP NIGHT - Let’s have dinner together at Town Hall Grill on Tuesday, April 23, anytime between 5:00-7:00pm. Please come! Town Hall Grill is giving CCP a portion of the proceeds for that night, so we are calling this a Fellowship FUNdraiser! ;-) I emailed a flyer with details earlier this week and it’s posted below. Thanks to Carolyn Ziemer for arranging this special night and thanks to one of our Southern Village neighbors, the Town Hall Grill!

PHOTOS - Wednesday & Thursday, April 17 (Whales & MW classes) & 18 (Ducks & TTH classes) Photo Specialties will take individual and class photos outside during the school day.

CHAPEL CONNECTION - This week we read the story of the Lost Sheep. The shepherd realized one of his sheep was missing. He went to find it and brought it safely home. We learned that Jesus is like a good shepherd who takes care of His sheep. And WE are His sheep! Baaa!

A REMINDER FROM DR. BAILEY - “You can say, ‘All A’s! Fantastic! You are so smart!’ and spotlight he importance of grades. OR you could highlight the value of learning by saying, ‘These grades show me you put a lot of effort into learning. What did you learn that you really loved?’” ~ Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline p.49

Wishing you well,

Debbie

March 28 - Here comes April! Reminders from Debbie

Dear CCP Families,

Can you believe that April begins on Monday? No fooling! ;-) Happy April! I love to turn the page in my paper calendar. New month - fresh start! Think of all the possibilities of love, grace, and connections! Enjoy your spring break! March 29-April 5. We will see you back on Monday, April 8.

EASTER at CHRIST CHURCH - You are invited! Lots of options…

Sunrise Service at 7:00am on Southern Village Green

Acoustic Easter Service at 9:00am in the Sanctuary

Outdoor Easter Service at 10:00am on the Southern Village Green

Traditional Easter Service at 11:00am in the Sanctuary

TUITION - Tuition is due on April 1. Since we are on Spring Break, we will extend the deadline until April 10 at 9:00am. Please make sure your payment is here by then, so Melissa only has to make one trip to the bank.

PAC FINANCE COMMITTEE - We will meet on Wed, April 10 at 9:15.

PHOTOS (individual and class photos) by Photo Specialties -

• Wed, April 17 - Whales, MWF Ladybugs, MW Frogs

• Thursday, April 18 - Ducks, TTH Ladybugs, TTH Frogs

PRESCHOOL SUNDAY - April 21 at 9:00am. Please arrive by 8:40 so we can have a quick practice and be ready to sing. The preschool children will sing early in the service. Please plan to be here….we need ALL the beautiful little voices to help celebrate the preschool ministry! After they sing, they can join the children’s activities in Ascension Hall. The safekeepers & adult helpers will take them to the hall (Frogs to the nursery/frog room) The Ladybugs, Ducks, & Whales will return to you near the end of the service. You can pick up the Frogs after the service in the nursery/frog room.

PAC MEETING: Monday, April 22 at 7:30pm on Zoom

CCP FELLOWSHIP NIGHT at TOWN HALL GRILL - Tuesday, April 23 from 5:00-8:00pm More info to come after spring break…for now please mark your calendar!

From Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline, p. 105 - “ Anxious or overwhelmed children respond better to assertive commands than to choices. Think about a time when you felt overwhelmed. The last thing you wanted to do was make a decision. At such times, clear commands are soothing.” Even for adults, this is true. Soon after my Dad passed, there was a day when my husband said, “Where do you want to eat?” I felt the tears welling up. I couldn’t even make a simple choice of a restaurant! I said, “Please just choose a place for me. I can’t make a choice right now.” At that moment, it felt good to have my husband choose for me. I was grateful.

Enjoy your Spring Break! We will see you back at school on Monday, April 8th.

Easter joy!

Debbie

CCP March 21 - Debbie's update

Dear CCP Families,

Happy Spring! I have a few reminders for you…

CAMP REGSITRATION DEADLINE - is March 28th. If you’d like your child to attend camp June 4-7, please register this coming week if you haven’t already. We need to know how many total children will participate, so we can purchase the correct number of supplies.

SHOES - As we approach warmer weather, I want to remind you that the safest and best shoes for preschool are sneakers. If you choose sandals, please choose the ones with protection over the toes and rubber soles. Flip flops are not a good choice for preschool. Please encourage your child to wear safe shoes at preschool.

PHOTOS - Please mark your April calendar for photo days -

• Wed, April 17 the Whales and MW(F) classes will have photos made during the school day.

• Thurs, April 18 the Ducks and TTH classes will have photos made during the school day.

  Our photographers will be from Photo Specialties and will take pics outside. There will be individual pictures and a class photo.

CHRIST CHURCH EGG HUNT - YOU are invited! This Sunday, March 24 at 4:00pm on the Southern Village green…Bring your own basket! Find some eggs, play some games, and enjoy the fellowship!

SPRING BREAK - will begin on Good Friday, March 29. Our total spring break will be March 29-April 5.

Lilian Katz, writing in the book Developing People (part of the Art of Leadership series), notes:
"We must come to see that the welfare of our children and grandchildren is intimately linked to the welfare of all other people’s children. After all, when one of our children needs life-changing surgery, someone else’s child will perform it. If one of our children is threatened or harmed by violence, someone else’s child will be responsible for the violent act. The good life for our own children can only be secured if a good life is also secured for all other people’s children. Where are other people’s children right now? Are they having wholesome, caring, and appropriate experiences? The person who will be our president 60 years from now may be in someone’s three-year-old class today. I hope she’s having a good experience! To be concerned about other people’s children is not just a practical matter — it is a moral and ethical one."

And from Dr. Becky Bailey…..Whoever you believe is in charge of your feelings, you have placed in charge of you. Putting a 3-year-old in charge of your feelings is pretty scary! Take back your power with the language of responsibility: "I'm going to ____" (instead of, "Don't make me _____.")

Wishing you well,

Debbie

March 14, 2024 - Preschool news from Debbie

Dear CCP Families,

Happy almost St. Patrick’s Day! This holiday always bring fun, festive outfits, and silliness to preschool as the children talk about creative ways to “catch leprechauns” and all things green. It’s such a joy to be able to observe their conversations and interactions with each other.

CCPreschool ADVISORY COMMITTEE - meets on Zoom at 7:30pm this coming Monday, March 18. I’ll send a Zoom link on Friday.

CHRIST CHURCH EGG HUNT - Sunday, March 24 at 4:00pm on the Southern Village Green. If you plan to participate, please pre-stuff a few plastic eggs with candy or trinkets (no nuts or peanut butter) and bring them to the bin in the narthex this coming week. Thanks!

MARK YOUR APRIL CALENDAR - Sunday, April 21 is Preschool Sunday, where we celebrate the Christ Church Preschool ministry. Our preschool children will sing at the 9:00 service. Everyone is invited! More info to come…

CONSCIOUS DISCIPLINE MOMENT - Heads up!  Here comes a tiny, but IMPORTANT distinction...... It is critical that you ask, "How do you feel?" instead of saying, "How would that make you feel."  Self-regulation requires children to own their feelings.  Attributing the cause of their feelings to outside situations or people by using "make you" language yields blame and derails the process. ~from Dr. Bailey's Feeling Buddies Curriculum, p. 7

Here’s wishing you a wonderful weekend,

Debbie

March 7 - Preschool news

Dear CCP Family,

    THANK YOU - for taking time to talk with your child’s teachers this month, whether in-person, by phone, or on Zoom. A HOME - SCHOOL partnership benefits your child in so many ways! We appreciate your time and the chance to share our classroom perspective and observations with you. We clearly adore your children and love sharing with you! Teachers, we sincerely appreciate all your planning & preparations!

      PAC - The CCP PAC will meet on Zoom on Monday, March 18 at 7:30pm. We will look at the proposed slate and the proposed 24-25 calendar.

SAFEKEEPERS - We have a staff meeting on Tuesday, March 12 at 12:30. We will discuss Session 5 of Handling Upset.

HELPFUL HINT FROM DR. BAILEY - “Discipline comes from the word ‘disciple,’ which is rooted in the Latin word that means to teach. Opportunities for discipline occur during moments of conflict between the needs and wants of the parties involved. How we resolve these moments teaches our children to resolve conflicts for the rest of their lives.” (from Dr. Bailey’s I LOVE YOU RITUALS, p. 25)

     AND ONE MORE EXCELLENT HINT - “The brain is pattern-seeking. The more consistent your routines, the easier it is for the brain to pick up the pattern. If there is a consistent routine, the brain picks up the pattern, the child feels safe, the his neurological resources can be used for learning and exploration.” (from ConsciousDiscipline.com)

If you have “old fashioned” clocks at home, be sure to spring forward one hour when you go to bed this Saturday night! Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday morning.

I wish you well,

Debbie

Feb. 29 post - Preschool news and coaching a child through emotions

Dear CCP Families,

I recently saw this quote from Maria Montessori, “Everyone talks about peace, but no one educates for peace. People educate for competition and this is the beginning of any war. When we educate to cooperate and be in solidarity with one another, that day we will be educating for peace.” I am grateful to be part of a preschool that DOES educate for peace! I watch my safekeepers teach peaceful ways to end conflict everyday. I see them building a classroom community called a school family that cares for one another. I see them help children learn to self-regulate. They do this by teaching techniques, like breathing, that can help calm a little body that is experiencing upset. A breath often gives a pause so the child can respond, rather than react. Our safekeepers help children recognize the emotions of sadness, joy, anger, fear, & disappointment and help them learn to express these feelings in appropriate ways. I see them teach problem-solving techniques and encourage communication between peers. Many of these skills and techniques are part of the Conscious Discipline philosophy that we use at CCP. To learn more, please visit consciousdiscipline.com. And know that your preschool is helping your child learn how to cooperate and care for others. We will continue to encourage peace in our little corner of the world!

CAMP - We still have a few spaces for your Ladybug, Duck or Whale to join our June summer camp. The application was in your cubbie last Wednesday or Thursday, but if you need another one, please ask. First come, first served. We will need all campers to be signed up by the end of March so we can order the correct number of supplies.

CONFERENCES - Thanks for signing up to conference with your child’s teachers on March 6 & 7. Each year we are open for fall conferences and closed for spring conferences. (It is very difficult to get enough substitutes to cover all the classes in the spring.) Feel free to team up with a friend and use our playground to watch each other’s children while one parent goes in to conference.

TUITION - due March 1 and considered late on March 5 at noon. Thanks for paying your fees on time.

Looking ahead to PRESCHOOL SUNDAY - Each year we celebrate our preschool ministry in a Christ Church worship service. The children sing and we invite all our families to join us in worship. Please mark your calendar for April 21 at the 9:00a service this year. More details will come, but for now, mark this date on your calendar. We need all the children’s voices to make a joyful noise!

CHAPEL CONNECTION - This week we learned the story of the good Samaritan and how he helped someone, even though they were different from him. We are learning to be helpful, kind “good neighbors.”

YOUR SUPPORT - Please remember that there are easy ways to support CCP without it coming directly from your wallet! Buy your coffee or lunch with a gift card linked to CCP (#111) at Weaver St Market. And link your VIC card to CCP (#3558) when shopping at Harris Teeter. Thanks for taking a moment to make your shopping count for CCP!! (We don’t see anything you buy, but we receive a check at the end of each quarter if we have enough total purchases.)

A CONSCIOUS DISCIPLINE MOMENT - From Dr. Becky Bailey's Managing Emotional Mayhem, p. 41..."If a child signals sadness, anger or embarrassment, an attuned adult can pick up on this communication and coach the child through her discomfort to an integrated state.  The child will learn emotions are a bridge between problem and solution, reducing the likelihood of a reactive or impulsive response."

        Emotions serve a vital purpose!  We need to feel them, accept them, and then they will dissipate.  They are the bridge between problem and solution.  Here's the secret....we don't want to get stuck on the feelings bridge, hanging on to our suffering and rehashing our problem.  Instead we want to identify and name the feeling.  Then relax and re-frame the problem.  Then we can more easily choose a solution!

Can you believe that March begins tomorrow?? I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Wishing you well,

Debbie

Feb 22, 2024 post (includes excellent info on assertiveness)

Dear CCP Families,

As I consider all the things going on in our world today, I often have to stop to breathe and pray in order to handle my big emotions. (Thanks to my faith and to my skills of Conscious Discipline!) I am especially grateful for our preschool teachers who spend much time teaching our students peaceful ways to handle conflict and techniques to calm their bodies when they are upset. Self-regulation and an assertive voice are two of the most important things we teach. These skills will help your children to be prepared to manage what life throws at them now and in the future! Read the Conscious Discipline moment at the bottom for more on Assertive Voice.

CONFERENCES - Watch for your teacher’s sign-up genius in a blog post or email, so you can sign up for a convenient time for a conference.

TUITION - Please remember that your March tuition payment is due Friday, March 1. (It’s considered late after March 5.) Thanks for paying your fees on time.

ILLNESSES - Looks like pink eye has finally slowed down, but tummy bugs, upper respiratory infections, and even Covid are still showing up in our community. Please keep children home a full 24 hours after symptoms are gone to be sure they are well. Please refer to the 23-24 Health Guidelines I gave you at the start of school. Each class wishes their absent friends well and sends them love.

SUMMER CAMP - Camp applications for Ladybugs, Ducks, and Whales went out this week. We have spots for 28-30 campers with 4 teachers. Camp is June 6-9 from 9:00-1:00. Bring your compoleted application and fee to the preschool office.

CHAPEL CONNECTION - This week we learned that Jesus asked us to be light to the world! We remembered how our song “This Little Light of Mine” reminds us to shine our light to all people. We shine God’s love through us by being kind, helpful, and sharing our smiles with everyone we meet.

FOURS FOR 2024-25 - We still have room for a few more 4-year-olds for next year. If you know of a friend or neighbor who will be 4 by Aug. 31, please encourage them to contact me at darena@christmethodist.org or 919-969-1690. We would love for their family to join our preschool family!

A VERY IMPORTANT CONSCIOUS DISCIPLINE MOMENT (a little long, but well worth the read!) - Here is an important word about the skill of assertiveness, paraphrased from Dr. Becky Bailey.  There are 3 voices that we can use to communicate - passive, aggressive, and assertive.  The goal of passivity is to please others.  Using a passive voice relinquishes your power by leaving decisions to others.  Aggressive communication aims to win by overpowering.  Aggressive people often speak for others and they frequently use the words "always" and "never" as forms of attack.  Assertiveness allows us to express our needs, wants and desires constructively, without devaluing the other person's needs, wants and desires.  Assertiveness teaches others how to treat us.  The goal of assertiveness is clear communication that paints a picture of what we want others to do.  It has a voice tone of "no doubt" and comes from an intention of helping children be successful instead of making them behave.

 How can we give assertive commands successfully?  By using an assertive voice worded as a command.  Commands are about non-negotiable compliance.  (Requests offer a choice.) We don't want to confuse children by wording commands as requests if there is really no choice.  For example, "Keith, would you take out the trash?" actually meant, "Get up now and take the trash to the curb."  There was really no choice, so an assertive command works better, “Keith, take out the trash.” Usually safety issues need to be worded as commands in an assertive voice.  "Hold my hand while we cross the street."  "Put your notebooks away and line up for lunch."  "Walk in the hall just like this." (demonstrate what you want the child to do.)  These are phrased so there is no question, no doubt.

Using an assertive voice as an adult models assertiveness for your child. Assertiveness lets you set your boundaries on what behaviors you consider safe, appropriate and permissible.  It enables you to say "no" to your children, and teaches them how to say "no" to others (a very important skill. ) You may ask me any questions or go to www.consciousdiscipline.com and search assertive voice.

You may find it helpful to save the Conscious Discipline website information for future use. You may discover that in the packed elementary school schedule, they just don’t have as much time to work on the skills of composure, empathy, self-regulation, assertive voice, making choices, etc. These are the areas where preschool teachers really shine! Help your student carry these important life skills into the future by practicing them at home.

Sending well wishes and peaceful thoughts,

Debbie

Feb. 15, 2024 Preschool plans and reminders

Dear CCP Families,

First, I’d like to thank you for the sweet Valentine cards and gifts that were sent my way! You are very generous and I sincerely appreciate the love and encouraging words from you and your children.

More love and appreciation to all of you who helped with the Valentine Dance and with our Pancakes & Pj’s days. These are favorite events for the children and we could not pull these off without your help! Thank you!

ILLNESSES - We still have random cases of conjuntivitis, colds, and the stomach bug throughout the school. Thanks for notifying us and keeping your kids home if they appear to be developing any illness. The teachers and the other parents appreciate your efforts!

2024-25 SUPPLY FEES - Due today to hold your spot! $225 for 2’s and 3’s. $250 for 4’s. We have room for one more 4-year-old for next year. If you know a friend or neighbor who will be 4 by Aug. 31, please invite them to contact me. All other classes are full. Please let me know if your plans change.

CCP SUMMER CAMP - is only open to current Ladybugs, Ducks, and Whales who are completely toilet trained. Our camp leaders are Ms Linda, Ms Natalie, Ms Sue, & Ms Kelsi. Summer Camp is Tuesday through Friday, June 4-7. The applications will be in your cubbies on Wednesday, Feb. 21. Please apply soon so we will know how many children to expect and plan for.

WINTER BREAK - School is closed for students Feb. 19 & 20. (Teachers have a workday on Feb. 20)

PLANNING AHEAD/PHOTOS - Please mark your April calendar for spring photos! We plan to have Photo Specialties at preschool to make individual and class photos outside under the bell tower. Whales and MW(F) classes will take photos on Wednesday, April 17. Ducks and TTH classes will take photos on Thursday, April 18.

“Love increases security and provides safety. Instead of, ‘Get over here or you’ll get lost,’ try, ‘Stay close to me in the store, so I can keep you safe. If something happened to you, I would be sad.” (Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline, p. 10)

I wish you well,

Debbie

Feb. 8, 2024 post from Debbie - Happy Valentine's Day!

Hi CCP Families,

Conscious Discipline - “Put your children on your ‘to do list’ and spend time enjoying them! Five minutes of focused play each day reduces power struggles by 50%!” (from Preventing Power Struggles", part of the Presenter’s Series)

    Supply Fees due - Your 2024-25 supply fees are due by February 15. Of course this pays for supplies throughout the year, but it also serves as your acceptance of the offered spot and holds your place. If your child is in the 2’s and 3’s classes (Frog & Ladybugs), your fee is $225. If your child is in the 4’s classes (Ducks & Whales), your fee is $250.

Scholarships - For families who may need to apply for a 2024-25 scholarship (based on financial need) please email Debbie directly and I’ll send you the application. The scholarship application has a deadline of Monday, April 8. It requires the completed application, your most recent tax return, and a recent pay stub. It is confidential.

Winter Break - CCP will be closed for winter break on Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 19 & 20. Teachers, we will have a workday on Tues, Feb. 20.

Valentine Dance - Put on your dancing shoes and let’s boogie! This Friday, Feb. 9 from 6:00-7:30 in the fellowship hall. There will be music, dancing, a funny photo booth, and simple snacks for the whole family. Thanks to our PAC for hosting the dance!

Pancakes & PJ’s - Monday & Tuesday, Feb. 12 & 13. Everyone can wear pj’s to school and we will eat pancakes & fruit around 10:00 as our snack. Thanks to all the parents who volunteered to help.

Since Valentine’s Day is almost here, I want to take a moment to tell you how very much we love and appreciate YOU, our families. We love to partner with you in your child’s preschool education. Thank you for all you do to support us!

Ash Wednesday is also on Feb. 14 this year. There will be “ashes to go” in the morning under the bell tower and a 12:15 service in the sanctuary.

     Whoever you believe is in charge of your feelings, you have placed in charge of you.  Putting a 3-year-old in charge of your feelings is pretty scary!  Take back your power with the language of responsibility:  "I'm going to ____" (instead of, "Don't make me _____.")  ~Dr. Becky Bailey  

Happy Valentine’s Day & I wish you well,

Debbie

Feb. 1, 2024 post - Supply Fees due and Welcome February

Dear CCP Family,

Welcome February! It’s a busy month, so mark your calendar with all these events…

Next week the Admissions Committee will form classes for next year. I will send your class placement to you on Tuesday, Feb. 6. If you do not get your first choice, we appreciate your understanding & patience. Hopefully I may be able to move you as things shift around or you will be assured of your first choice next year.

       SUPPLY FEES for 2024-24 are due by Thursday, Feb. 15.  This fee secures your spot in the class for next year.  Please pay your fees on time or let us know if your plans have changed.  Thank you!

FAMILY VALENTINE’S DANCE - A favorite event returns this year!! Friday, Feb. 9 from 6:00-7:30pm in Ascension Hall. Everyone is invited! People have asked what to wear…whatever you like! Some wear jeans and others wear velvet and sparkles…anything in between is OK! Keep in mind, this is a kid-friendly, family event and we sincerely appreciate our PAC for taking the lead on this.

VALENTINE’S DAY - Please follow your teachers’ instructions about when/how to celebrate in your child’s class.

PANCAKES & PJ’s - 10:00 on Feb. 12 for Ducks & MW(F) classes; 10:00 on Feb. 13 for Whales & TTH classes. Watch for an email from your class parent rep for ways you can help. This is a FAVORITE school event!

 WANT TO SERVE ON THE PRESCHOOL ADVISORY COMMITTEE next year? -  We would love to have you join us!  Your service would be sincerely appreciated AND it's a great opportunity to get to know other preschool parents.  If you’re interested, please contact Jennifer Holwell, jennmeeks1@gmail.com, or me. Thanks for your consideration!

Finally, if your little one is absent, please send us a quick email or call. We like to know if you’re away on a trip or if your child is sick or perhaps you just need a pajama day! If your child is sick, please follow our health policy to avoid passing illnesses to friends. If your child has a fever or cough, please use a home test to rule out Covid before sending him/her back to preschool. It’s also worthwhile to note that pink eye can be a Covid symptom. Thanks!

        In CONSCIOUS DISCIPLINE, Dr. Becky Bailey reminds us, "Allowing children to reflect on their choices rather than judging, placing guilt, blaming, or rescuing them gives children access to the internal feedback necessary for them to take responsibility for their actions and make better choices in the future." So not in the heat of the moment, but when things are calm, talk with your child about the choice and what happened. Leave out any judgment or blame. Allow your child to come to a conclusion about the choice. Brainstorm different possible choices that could be used next time.

I wish you well,

Debbie

Applications & Conscious Discipline (Jan. 25, 2024 post)

Dear CCP Families,

Some of you have asked about summer camp. We plan to have camp June 4-7 for Ladybugs, Ducks, and Whales that would like to come. (Frogs, sorry you will have to wait until next summer.) I will have more information for you approx. mid-February!

Many of you have said how much you appreciate the Conscious Discipline tidbits I share with you. I’m so glad! I can honestly say that Conscious Discipline has made such a difference in my life. It began as a way I interacted with children, but it has become much more! I have now internalized the strategies and the language of C. D. I use these skills professionally, but also personally in my life. Remember, “Your approach to discipline demonstrates conflict resolution for your children, and it teaches them how to get their needs met for the rest of their lives.” (Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline, p. 7) For more information, please go to www.consciousdiscipline.com and look at the free resources section..

Please remember that your February tuition is due by Feb. 5 at 9:00am to avoid a late fee. Thanks for paying your tuition on time.

Thank you for turning in your 24-25 applications. We will send an email by Feb. 6 with your class placements. We will do our best to give you your first choices, but in some cases (probably 3’s) may have to place your child in your second choice. We will try to move them to your first choice class as things shift around. Your 24-25 supply/equipment fees will be due by Feb. 15 ($225 for 2’s & 3’s; $250 for 4’s) Encourage friends and neighbors to hurry and register by January 31!

Teachers, our next staff meeting is Tues, Feb 6 at 12:30. Please be prepared to discuss Session 4 of Handling Upset.

Please Mark your February Calendar:

• Preschool Valentine Dance - Feb. 9 - 6:00-7:30p - After thinking that we may have to skip the dance this year, our PAC members have jumped in to keep this favorite tradition alive!!

• Pancakes and PJ’s - Feb. 12 (Ducks & MW classes) & 13 (Whales & TTH classes)at 10:00a. Your class parent rep will send a signup for you to help with this event

  Dr. Becky Bailey tells us, “When you are upset, pivot. Say to yourself, ‘If I’m upset, I’m focusing on what I don’t want. Do I want more of this in my life?’ If the answer is no, breathe deeply. Then tell your child what TO DO and why.” (The “why” should use safety language as much as possible.) 

Finally, I’m sorry to have been absent a couple days this week. I have been a bit “under the weather.” Thanks for your prayers and well wishes!

I wish you well,

Debbie

I wish you well,

Debbie

January 18, 2024 (Includes notes about using a picture schedule)

Dear CCP Family,

Thank you for turning in your applications for next school year. The CCP Admissions Committee will meet in early February.  We will email the results asap including details of the next steps to take. Hopefully you read and understood the emailed letter about class placement.  We will do our best to honor as many first choices as possible.

Could one of you kindly advertise that it’s time to register for 2024-25 at Christ Church Preschool on Next Door or your neighborhood newsletter? We still have room for a few more children, especially two-year-olds. Sometimes parents of twos may not realize that January is the month to register for preschool.

A special thank you to the PAC members who provided treats for the parent coffees this week. We had smaller turnouts, but I think it’s just a busy time of year. PAC members, we will meet on Zoom at 7:30p on Monday, Jan. 22.

Just a note about safety - if you are in the building and someone rings the bell, please let Dr Dan, Melissa or me answer the door. We should be able to recognize the people who should be entering the building. Of course, if you know the person, then you may let him/her in.

Families, mark your calendars . More details to come…

• Pancakes & PJ’s - Mon, Feb 12 (Ducks, MW Frogs, MWF Ladybugs) and Tues, Feb 13 (Whales, TTH Frogs, TTH Ladybugs) at 10:00am in Ascension Hall. Parent representatives will be communicating with you about how you can help.

     From Dr. Bailey's Feeling Buddies Curriculum, "Much like adults create written to-do lists and record appointments on a calendar, picture outlines of everyday routines provide predictability and safety for children.  Instead of expecting them to remember, visuals provide developmentally appropriate tools to help them remember."   You may know that each of our classrooms has a picture schedule of their day.  The teachers refer to it during the day to let the children know what comes next and how they are progressing through the school day.  Some classes even have helpful visuals to remind children of toileting and hand-washing routines.  You can post pictures at home for how to clean up toys, the steps to feed the dog, how to brush your teeth, or even how to get dressed in the morning!  You can also put these pictures in a little book that you can "read" anytime you are preparing for the event.  Check out Shubert’s house on the Conscious Discipline website, www.consciousdiscipline.com for ideas!  It’s under “Free resources.”

I wish you well,

Debbie

CCP - Jan. 11, 2024 Welcome January and how to be a S.T.A.R.

Hi CCP Family,

    I know you were happy to have your children back at preschool and in a routine again after the holidays! (Other than Tuesday’s crazy weather day) When families are all together and out of our routines for an extended time, sometimes our “buttons” get pushed. Remember, Dr. Bailey reminds us in Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline (p. 22) that “Children learn self-discipline in 3 stages: 1) They find the limits by experimenting. 2) They retest their findings by repeatedly doing what they were told not to (including teasing/provoking & pushing your buttons) to see if the limit is firm. 3) If the limit proves firm, they internalize it.” So, know that your children are just doing their jobs when they test your limits. Keep the limits firm so you can reach step 3 and the children can internalize the limits.

     Please remember that 2024-25 preschool applications for currently-enrolled families are due by tomorrow, Friday, Jan. 12.  We would love to have sibling applications by then, also. Thanks!  Please remember that we try to honor your first choice, but we may have to hold a drawing in early February if there are more applicants for a particular class than there are spaces.

     Blog post reminder:  To respond to your teacher on the emailed blog, you must click the link at the top where it says "To reply to Ms. ____, click here."  Unfortunately, the way it is set up, if you just click "reply," your message actually comes to me.  Of course, I will try to forward your message, but it may not be as timely. Thanks!

     Please remember that preschool is closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. day on Monday, January 15.  

Music and Chapel resumed this week. The Frogs joined Chapel time and will now attend Chapel with us once a week! This week in Chapel we talked about the time when Jesus was “lost” and his parents found him in the Temple reading God’s Word! (story can be found in Luke 2)

Winter Parent Social - Join other preschool parents after drop-off on Wed or Thurs, Jan. 17 & 18 in Ascension Hall. The Preschool Advisory Committee is providing a few treats and I’ll have some coffee and tea ready!

We have planned our annual school-wide Pancakes and PJ’s on Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 12 & 13. Watch for more details, but for now, please mark your calendars. When details are decided and published, parents are certainly invited to sign up to help. You may either provide items or cook/serve/clean-up pancakes.

     As you know, we do a lot of "intentional breathing" at preschool.  Often we call it being a S.T.A.R. (Smile, Take a deep breath And Relax.) Conscious Discipline tells us "Consciously breathing releases toxins from the body, improves the immune system, balances the nervous system, turns off the stress response, facilitates weight loss, helps release unhealthy memories and stifled emotions, and integrates our brain to engage the higher centers for optimal functioning."   (Feeling Buddies Curriculum, p. 70)  So anytime you feel stressed, remember to be a S.T.A.R!  Three slow, deep "belly breaths" can really help calm you and reset your system.  If your child is too upset in the moment to breathe, then you breathe for them.  Even just holding them close to you and breathing deeply can "download" your calm to them and help them move to the higher centers of the brain.  (Just make sure that you are calm and conscious first!) ;-)

I wish you well,

Debbie

Happy New Year (1/4/24) & the Top 4 Things about the Brain

Dear CCP Family,

        Happy new year!  I hope 2024 brings us all health, love, and peace! I also wish you the gift of simplicity in the new year. Keeping things simple reduces stress and increases gratitude.

THANK YOU - Once again, I just want to express my sincere appreciation for the love and kindness you showed me at Christmas and New Year’s this year! Your generous and thoughtful cards and gifts touched my heart. I am grateful for your gifts, but most grateful for each one of you!! Thank you for your part in making our CCP family such a safe, warm and loving community.

        TUITION - Please remember that January tuition is due.  We have extended the deadline to 9:00am on Monday, Jan. 8.  Melissa is very generous with that deadline, so please pay on time so she doesn’t have to send reminders. Thank you.

        REGISTRATION - This month is time to register for the 2024-25 school year!  You can find the application on our website and I sent one by email earlier this week.  Every currently-enrolled child is guaranteed a place for next year, but we can't guarantee that it will be in your first choice class. We will do our best!  Currently enrolled applications are due by Friday, Jan 12 so we can secure a spot for you.  You are my best “advertisers”, so please invite your friends to apply to CCP also!  New families have until Jan. 31 to apply.

LADYBUG REGISTRATION - Ladybugs, when you are in the hallway, I know all you can see is our Whale class for 4’s. Please remember that we have a fabulous Duck class for 4’s, too. It’s just tucked around the corner near the preschool office. Please feel free to pop by and visit Ms Shelly and Ms Natalie and see the Duck space. I want to be sure you know we have two 4 year old options!

        LADYBUG LUNCH - Ladybugs, you are invited to begin Lunch Bunch on Jan. 10 or 11. Make sure to follow all the guidelines Ms. Sue sent you and let her know if you will NOT attend so we can make pick up arrangements for you..

        INCLEMENT WEATHER - January is a good time to review our inclement weather policy from your parent handbook:

If Chapel Hill – Carrboro City Schools close due to the weather, then Christ Church Preschool will also close.  If Chapel Hill – Carrboro City Schools delay their starting time by one or two hours, then Christ Church Preschool will open for students at 10:00 a.m.  If CHCCS delay by 3 hours, then CCP will close.  (Note that we follow Chapel Hill schools - not Chatham and not Orange Co) When in doubt, please check your email for an announcement or call the preschool number (919-969-1690) for a recorded message.  The preschool will not make up or refund tuition for days missed due to inclement weather.  (I usually try to have the announcement about closures sent to your email by 7:00am.)

         CLOTHING - Please make sure your child has warm outerwear during the winter months.  The children almost always go outside in the fresh air even on very cold days. Even if your child does not wear a coat in the car, please bring a coat to place in the cubbie for outdoor time. It is helpful to label the loose pieces (hats, gloves, etc) with your child's name.  (The Frog class requests that you send mittens instead of gloves.)  Also, please be sure that your change of clothing in the cubbie is appropriate for the weather.

WINTER PARENT SOCIALS - Please mark your calendar…After drop-off on Jan. 17 & 18, please come by Ascension Hall to visit with other preschool parents and enjoy some coffee, tea, and treats courtesy of our Preschool Advisory Committee.

CONSCIOUS DISCIPLINE MOMENT - Finally, here are the top 4 things to know about the brain from Dr. Becky Bailey:

• The brain is pattern-seeking (Consistent routines are helpful.)

• The best exercise for the brain is exercise. (Run, jump, & play!)

• Connections on the outside build neural connections on the inside (Connect with your child through touch, presence, & eye contact in playful situations.)

• The brain functions optimally when we feel physically and psychologically safe (This is when learning takes place!)

  I wish you well,     

Debbie

Thank you and Merry Christmas! Dec. 14 post from Debbie

Dear CCP Families,

CONCERT - Thank you for coming to our Christmas Concert! We were delighted to have you here! It was fun to celebrate Jesus’ birth together as a school family. I am so proud of our children. When you’re a preschooler, it’s a BIG deal to stand in front of an audience, let alone remember all the words to the songs! Thank you for your love and support. We are so grateful for you, our families!

THANK YOU - Many of you have honored me with lovely Christmas cards, well wishes, and gifts. I want you to know I am humbled and grateful for your expressions of love. THANK YOU!!!! Your generosity is truly amazing! I hope you know how much you and your gifts are appreciated. Christ Church Preschool is like my extended family and I am truly thankful for each one of you.

BACK TO SCHOOL - We look forward to seeing your smiling faces back at preschool on Wednesday, January 3, 2024.

TUITION - The January tuition deadline has been extended to 9:00am on January 8th. Thanks for paying your fees on time.

LOOKING AHEAD - Mark your calendar for our “Winter Parent Social” on January 17 & 18. Enjoy some tea or coffee with friends in Ascension Hall just after drop-off.

A WORD ABOUT TRAUMA - Trauma cannot always be conquered, fixed, or resolved, but it can be heard, held and loved," write filmmakers Maurizio and Zaya Benazzo. I’m sure you have realized by now how much your children are loved here at CCP! We are so happy that you have chosen us to partner with you in your child’s early education.

A CONSCIOUS DISCIPLINE MOMENT - Combining connection and calming is powerful. It activates the attention systems, the motivation systems, and the impulse control systems in the brain. It creates an alert yet relaxed internal state that is ideal for all learning. ~Brain Smart Choices Cubes

As we move into 2024, my wish & prayer is that we can all see the world like children, through eyes of wonder and hope. Don’t worry about creating “perfection” in your family life - too much pressure! Turn off social media - too much competition! Instead, smile & breathe. Keep things simple…..Make s’mores and hot chocolate around your fire pit, build a tent from a blanket and a table, snuggle and read together, or take a magical walk or wagon ride in your neighborhood at night before the Christmas lights are all gone. It’s really these simple, inexpensive things that connect us and create beautiful lasting memories.

This week, I pray that the values from Advent will last all year. I wish you HOPE, LOVE, JOY & PEACE.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year CCP Family!

Debbie

CCP - Dec. 7, 2023 News and info on saying "No"

Dear CCP Families,

There is so much excitement in the building at this time of year! Wouldn’t it be great to have that child-like wonder again!? Take a moment and try to look at Christmas through your child’s eyes. It can sure relieve some of that adult stress!

CHRISTMAS CONCERT - Next week we have regular school days on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Then Thursday, Dec. 14 we will have our Christmas Concert at 9:30 in the Sanctuary. (This is for ALL classes, both MW and TTH) It will only last about half an hour and then we will say good-bye for the holidays. Please park, bring your child to their classroom at 9:00, and have a seat in the Sanctuary. (Since the whole school will be here at once, you may need to park in the municipal lots.) This is our Christmas gift of love to you! I hope you can come!

SICKNESS - Recently we have had the “tummy bug” circulating at preschool. Often it hits when you least expect it! Several times it has gone through whole families. Ugh! Please be sure your child stays home until s/he is completely well. If you know your child has been exposed, you may want to protect the class by keeping him or her home for a day or two to be sure all is clear. I’m wishing everyone well!

JANUARY TUITION - We return to school after the Christmas holidays on Wednesday, Jan. 3rd. Tuition will be due on Monday, January 8th, so you have a little wiggle room. Please make sure your January tuition is here by 9:00am on Jan. 8th to avoid late fees. Thanks for paying your fees on time.

CHAPEL CONNECTION - We have learned the story of an angel visiting Mary to give her good news! That news was that she would have a son, Jesus, who would be the Savior of the world. Mary, though young and probably a little frightened, said yes to God. She let her light shine! Every week the preschoolers “catch the light” in Chapel and store it in their hearts. Then they say yes to God and share that light of love and kindness with anyone who needs it during the week.

TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATION - If you did not have the opportunity to make a donation when we ordered Spirit wear, please know that we will gladly accept your tax-deductible donation at any point in the year. Just make your check to CCP and drop it in the tuition box. Melissa can provide a receipt for you. Thanks for your generosity!

STAFF CHRISTMAS LUNCH - CCP will treat the staff to lunch for Christmas, but we are going to wait until January when things settle a bit! Educators have BIG hearts and work very hard, and you would probably be shocked to see their small paychecks! Therefore, we love to give them gifts of appreciation when we can.

REGISTRATION 24-25 - Our “official” registration month is January. Currently enrolled students should register by Jan. 12th. Please encourage your neighbors and friends to apply at CCP, too. Their applications are due Jan. 31. We would love to have them join our preschool family. They are also welcome to email or call for a tour and to learn more about the program. (The updated applications are now on the website if you want to check that task off your list early, too.)

CHURCH CHRISTMAS PAGEANT - Sunday, Dec. 10 at 10:00am in Ascension Hall. Some of your children may be participating, but everyone is invited to come and watch!

A CONSCIOUS DISCIPLINE MOMENT - Discipline has a great deal to teach children about “no.” If you cave in when children plead, you fail to teach them how to accept or give a meaningful “no.” (Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline, P. 21) When you teach children to assertively set limits, you teach respect and encourage personal power. This is such an important lesson, especially as children become teens. We want them to understand that their “no” has power AND we want them to respect the “no” from others. You can model that for them!

This week along with Hope and Love, I wish you Joy & Peace!

Debbie

Nov. 30, 2023 - Advent, Christmas concert, & info on wishing well

Dear CCP Family,

        Tomorrow we welcome December and the season of Advent!  We have been practicing for our Christmas Concert which will be Thursday, Dec. 14 in the Sanctuary.  (It’s on a Thursday, but we want ALL our classes to come that day, so MW(F) classes, please plan to join us!) Arrive at 9:00, drop your child in his or her classroom, and have a seat in the sanctuary. I hope you can come because it is our gift of love to you!  Remember, the whole school will be assembled, so you may need to park in the municipal lots around Southern Village. The concert will only last about 25 minutes.  Afterwards you can take photos and then we will say good-bye for the Christmas holidays.

COATS & CLOTHING - Please remember to mark all outer clothing with your child's name.  (Frog class prefers mittens - can you imagine putting 100 tiny fingers into gloves while 2 year olds wait to go outside???)  Also, now that it is cold, please be sure you have a change of clothes in the cubbie appropriate for winter weather.

         There is no PAC MEETING in December. We will reconvene on January 22, 2024. PAC members, please mark your calendar.

        LAST DAY OF DEC - Our last regular school day before the Christmas break is Wednesday, Dec. 13. On Thursday, Dec. 14 we will only be in the building for our 9:30am Christmas Concert. We wish you a very Merry Christmas and safe travels!

REGISTRATION FOR 24-25 - will take place in January. However, if you like to cross things off your list early, the applications are ready on the website! Please bring the application and $40 registration fee to the preschool office. Make checks to CCP. (If you don’t have checks, we can take cash or you can use your bank’s bill pay feature to send us your $40. Just use your child’s name as your account number.)

SAFEKEEPERS - Our next staff meeting is Tues, Dec. 5 at 12:30. We will finalize plans for the Christmas concert and discuss Sessions 2 & 3 of Handling Upset.

WINTER PARENT SOCIAL - Looking ahead, please mark your calendar for JANUARY 10 & 11. The PAC is planning a winter parent social in Ascension Hall right after drop-off (around 9:15) on Jan. 10 & 11. It will be a time to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and just relax and enjoy each other’s company for a few minutes before you start your errands or your work day.

BLOGS - Be sure to read your teacher’s blog post! You will find all the plans and details for what is taking place in the classroom. Plus if you click into the website you can view all the pictures!

        WISHING WELL - We know the holidays can be a fun, but stressful time of year!  Remember to BREATHE and WISH WELL anytime the world does not go your way.  Here's a good reminder from Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline (p.210)...."At every moment you have a choice between approaching the world with a spirit of love and learning or one of fear and punishing.  That choice is yours."

         When you make that positive choice, you can quietly share this gift of breath and well wishes to impact your little corner of the world.  Amy Speidel, a Loving Guidance Associate reminds us, "When you see another parent struggling with an out-of control child, along with being thankful it wasn't your turn, wish that parent and child well.  They will find their way.  And trust that the same well wishing will grace you when it is your turn."  (Remember a wish well is not merely a thought, but a positive field of energy and love that you send out.)  Be gentle with one another! Sometimes at preschool if a friend is having a hard time, the whole class will pause, breathe, and send that person love. You see, when a little one is upset, she is unable to breathe deeply. So, for that moment, her friends breathe for her. It’s just one more way that we form a loving community of support.

Along with HOPE, I wish you LOVE, JOY, and PEACE this season of Advent,

Debbie