Let the Countdown Begin!

Wow, December 1st is here and the holiday season is in full swing with 24 days left until Christmas.  So you know what that means? Time to break out your advent calenders and get the countdown a-rollin’.  Oh how I just love these calenders…I could hardly contain myself as a child each day that it was time to unveil those tiny treats & treasures.  Granted, the wax-like chcolate that was hiding inside was…eh. But who cared, all it meant was one day closer to ole’ St. Nick making his way to my house! I gotta tell you, these calenders have come a long way since I was a little kiddo and I am now excited to share this tradition with my kids.  Some of the calenders are set up for the full 25 days and others are just the 12 days before.  I think this year we are going with the 12 days countdown version.  I figured if I did the whole month, it may feel like an eternity to my two year old.  Plus, I found the perfect little ornaments to create my own – project pending!  Since I don’t have my own DIY advent to share with you just yet, I will substitute with some fabulous pics and a link to a sweet tutorial.  Happy counting!

This cute calender is available on Etsy from Pretty Swank for $24.00

How about a “Baby Sock” advent Calender via Martha Stewart Kids – perfect for all you new mamma’s

No more baby socks on hand?  Try the big-kid version from familyfun.go.com

Need a little more sophistication?  Pottery Barn has it!

As for my 12-day calender that I will be making, I purchased these adorable mini mittens and stocking ornaments from Target for $2.00 each.  I plan to string them along with ribbon and fabric scraps.

My DIY advent project was inspired by this picture & tutorial  via Amanda of Shindig, pretty fabulous!

So?  What are some of your holiday traditions to count down the days until Christmas?  We’d love to know!