If you're looking for a few last minute giving ideas that are totally appropriate to give during the ongoing Christmas season (which extends through The Epiphany of the Lord!), here are two terrific recommendations from our friends at Paraclete Press. Both resources are treasures that will truly amplify joy this holiday season!

season-nativity-frontcover_648pxhighThe Season of the Nativity: Confessions and Practices of an Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany Extremist

Sybil MacBeth writes that Advent and Epiphany are the often-neglected parentheses around Christmas. And they deserve more attention and better publicity. This Season of the Nativity sets the stage the liturgical year, our yearlong journey through Scripture and salvation history. Sybil MacBeth's memoir, front-porch theology, and pages of practices and activities invite individuals and families to enjoy this season in a way that has more peace and more Christ and less chaos and guilt. She offers simple tools for busy people – perhaps to reclaim a joyful and yes, serious nativity season for the first time. Sybil MacBeth is a dancer, a doodler, and a former community college mathematics professor. Her books include Praying in Color: Drawing a New Path to God, Praying in Color: Kids' Edition, and Praying in Color--Portable Edition.

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wordsoffaithWords of Faith Color and Sound Set

Who doesn’t want to relieve stress? Try uplifting music, a coloring book of beautiful patterns, and words to live by!

This fall, Paraclete Press pairs the music of world-renowned Gloriæ Dei Cantores with color and uplifting words to live by to create an imaginative pathway to stillness and beauty.

“One of the year’s fast-growing hobbies for adults is coloring…many busy people say they find the pastime a relaxing break from electronic screens.” New York Times

“Listening to…music can have a powerful effect on your anxiety.” Calm Clinic

When life makes you stressed and scattered, put away the smartphone, pick up some colored crayons or markers, put in your CD – and quiet your mind and soul.

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About the Author

Lisa M. Hendey

Lisa M. Hendey

Lisa M. Hendey is the founder of CatholicMom.com, a bestselling author and an international speaker. A frequent radio and television guest, Hendey travels internationally giving workshops on faith, family, and communications. Visit Lisa at LisaHendey.com or on social media @LisaHendey for information on her speaking schedule or to invite her to visit your group, parish, school or organization. Visit Lisa's author page on Amazon.com.