stars in the window

Crafting With Gladness: Christmas Angels

/ Sarah Kay Bierle / Leave a comment

Craft 2 of 4 today!

Christmas Paper Angels

I’m not exactly sure what this craft has to do with the Christmas story “Stars In The Window” from With Gladness, but it sure is fun and cute. During World War II rationing and recovery from the economic depression of the 1930’s kept Christmas decorations and celebrations creative. Folks made many of their ornaments and other decorations out of items they had on hand. When looking for inspiration for this craft, I raided the wrapping paper scraps and the miscellaneous craft drawer…so I guess you could say it was created in the 1940’s spirit?

Using leftover wrapping paper, rubber bands, a wooden spoon, and a couple other items, we’ll craft some Christmas Angels. Continue reading →

With Gladness: World War II Christmases

/ Sarah Kay Bierle / Leave a comment

with-gladness-coverChristmas and other holidays in the 1940’s seem not as “far distant” as other historical eras. I think this is because I’ve heard so many stories from my grandparents and great-aunt about their war time holiday celebrations.

When I originally planned the World War II era story for With Gladness, I intended to base it off a Christmas play we had done years before and the setting would’ve been Battle of the Bulge. However, there were flaws in that story plot, and I eventually decided to scrap the idea. Having experienced moments of waiting for news from family and acquaintances in the military, I decided the home front setting might be better and more familiar for writing. If the theory is true that writing is good if it makes the author cry, then “Stars In The Window” should be one of the best the collection.

Now, without further jabbering, here are a few historical background facts or highlights from the tale. Continue reading →