Our First Jesse Tree

We started with scrapbooking papers

I don't know what rock I have been living under, but before this year I don't recall having ever heard of a Jesse Tree. We are thrilled to add such a meaningful tradition to our family's celebration of the Coming. In trying to decide the best way for us to make a Jesse tree, I looked at many examples. The two I ended up using to help us were the free gift from Ann Voskamp and the artistic inspiration from Laura at The Wellspring. Additionally, we are enjoying this book: The Jesse Tree.

This is the only remaining open wall in my house.

 

Leaf Cutter Ants (hahaha!)

They spread from the kitchen into the hall!

I made cardstock patterns and the kids used them to trace all the leaves on the backs of the papers. Then we used Stick Tack to put each piece on the wall. Since I got a late start on it, I didn't laminate it this year. My plan is to do that when we take it down. I will also have to number the pieces on the back to be able to reassemble the trunk each year. Rebekah is already lobbying to keep it up all the time. 
      

Odd, I know, but this tree grew right up out of the baseboard.

The narrative Ann Voskamp has done to go along with the Scripture readings each day is absolutely beautiful. I love the idea of seeing God's Plan of Redemption through Christ from the beginning, woven so carefully into each of the stories of His interaction with man. 

This is definitely something we will plan to do each year.

Are you doing a Jesse Tree this year?? What have you used?