Welcome back! I hope everyone had a great long holiday weekend, and you aren’t struggling like me to resume regular life! But life isn’t too regular these days…not with the buzz of Christmas in the air! I am so excited about Christmas with my kids this year…at 9 and 4 years-old, they are in the prime of excitement…and it is definitely contagious! We got a big jump on decorating this weekend; the kids are practically in their Pre-Christmas Frenzy, and it’s not even December yet.
Advent Calendars are always a fun way for kids to count down the days, and have something to look forward to each day before Christmas. I spotted this Advent Calendar awhile back, and instantly knew I’d be making my own. I realized this weekend though that December 1 is days away, so I had to get it in gear so my Advent Calendar would be ready to go!
It’s so cute I can hardly stand it! (Can I say that about something I made?!)
It is very easy and inexpensive to make (is there any other way around here?!). First we’ll start with the cones:
I created the numbers on my computer (using Copperplate font), then printed them out on label paper. Fold each piece of scrapbook paper in half diagonally, then in half again. Use the fold lines to cut 4 equal triangles.
Making the cones is very simple…once you get the hang of it. I’ll admit though, I had to Google the method several times before it finally blonde moment clicked.
About halfway through this party, you’ll wish Christmas was on the 10th, not 25th. But soon enough you’ll have a nice pile of 24 paper cones:
Next punch a hole in the back of each cone to thread your twine through. Then punch or cut out your numbers and affix one to each cone. (I mentioned I printed my numbers on label paper. Trying to peel the backs off of those 1″ circles was the most tedious part of the entire project. Next time I’ll print on regular paper and affix to the cones with glue.)
Now you need to create the ‘Tree’ in this scenario. I used the trusty Dollar Store Vase, some snowy looking stems from JoAnns Fabric and wrapping paper:
Once your tree is in place, tie the cones on with string or twine.
For the actual treat part, I raided the $1 aisles at different stores. Since I have to put two (identical) items in each cone, I was looking for fun and small!
Then I just dropped them in the cones, and added a fun ribbon to the vase.
The cones are hung in complete random order, so the kids will have to search each night for the right one to empty. I also added a few clip-on birds to give it a more natural feel.
Some cones also contain little slips of paper saying:
“Go for hot chocolate and walk around outdoor shops looking at lights.”
“Family movie night: ELF!”
“Watch a Christmas Special on TV.”
“Decorate cookies.”
“Tonight: Breakfast for Dinner and ice cream cones.”
I made sure those slips went in the days I was able to live up to the promise!
The only problem with the Tree so far? Curious onlookers!
The kids are so excited about this tree, and are already counting down the days until starting it December 1! And I can’t wait to see their faces each day when a new treat is revealed. Do you use an Advent Calendar in your home?
I’m sharing this project on the blogs listed in my Parties…check them out!