Countdown to Christmas

This year I am getting the family more excited for Christmas (not like we needed any help) by doing Christmas activities that lead up to Christmas. I know there are a lot of fun traditions out there: advent calendar, elf on the shelf, etc. We have always had a Christmas calendar from when I was a little girl that counts down the days by moving the star over nativity characters. This year, in addition, I have added activities to go along with each day.

Each day the girls will find an envelope on the counter with a card inside instructing them of their activity for the day. It also shows the current day and how many days left until Christmas! The design is really simple, black card stock with printed candy cane paper and the item written in a pretty candy like script.

I have been so excited for these little activities. I think it will be a fun way to spend time with each other and a chance to teach lessons like gift giving, thankfulness, creativity and the true meaning of the season.

Here are some things we will be doing counting down to Christmas:

• Hot Chocolate and watching Rudolf the Rednose Reindeer
• Make Glitter Ornaments
• Donate unused toys
• Make Christmas Gifts for daddy
• Ice-Skating at the Park
• Visit Santa at the Mall
• Play board game in front of the Christmas tree
• Drive around and look at Christmas lights
• Sledding
• Make a pizza snowman
• Paint toenails in Christmas colors
• Christmas stories by the fireplace
• Make Christmas goodies for the neighbors
• Host a cookie decorating party
• Homemade Carmel Corn and watching Frosty the Snowman

We no doubt will have a lot of fun! I'm excited for the extra special time with the family and I totally love this time of year.

Merry Christmas!! I'll post pictures as we countdown :)