Since the kids were little, we’ve been using the tradition of an Advent Calender to count down the days before Christmas. In the past we’ve used paper chains, add the cotton balls to Santa’s beard and even a little snowman who held numbers to change each day. But, this year I wanted something a little more meaningful for each day since the kids are a little bigger and to help them understand the true meaning of the season. So, I scoured my favorite resource site, Pinterest for some ideas. And boy, were there some great ones! Everything from simple index cards with numbers and activities on the back,
to Pottery Barn inspired branch Advents Calenders.
I wanted to find something that would look nice in our home plus be affordable AND easy to put together – cause this mom is crazy busy these days with all these kids around here! ha! And THIS is what I came up with:
An Advent Calendar Garland!
By using a few items I had on hand and a few items I bought at my local craft store, I created these cute numbered envelopes where I place an activity or thought for the day plus a Bible story that leads up to Christmas.
The kids have loved this Advent Garland and they look forward to opening up the envelope each day to see what’s in store for them! I found a huge list of advent activities on The Mommyhood Memos that I’ve gotten a few ideas from to go along with our own – everything from crafts to service ideas, to praying for someone. There’s so much you can do to make the season extra special and age appropriate.
Creating something beautiful for your mantel doesn’t have to be expensive or labor intensive. This Advent Garland is easy and affordable and can be used year after year!
