25 Days of Christmas - Mama's Favorite Things!

December is here! I love the Christmas season, and all the fun that comes with it. Over the next month I will be sharing some of my favorite things with you during my 25 Days of Christmas event! Check back each day for fun holiday tips, freebies, gift ideas, and holiday cheer!

Today's favorite things...Advent Calendars!

My kids love the countdown to Christmas that starts on December 1st in our house. We have several advent activities in our house, their favorite being the kind full of fun treats! I run across so many cute craft ideas on making your own advent calendar and had to share a few of my faves.

Here is one made out of a mini-muffin tin. We are doing this craft with my MOPS group this year and it's sure to be a hit!

Learn how to make your own at Somewhat Simple!

If you have a bit more room, or want to fill each day with a larger treat or prize then this "shoe carrier" advent calendar is perfect for you. What a smart, simple idea!

Check out all the details at Sparky Fizz for instructions and tips!

Here's a great paper version! A garland of envelopes full of fun, family activities! 

Don't miss the fun ideas for pajamas holiday lights tour 

at the end of Pink and Green Mama's post too!

And if you happen to have 25 match boxes there are so many fun ways to arrange them into a really cute advent calendar full of goodies! 

Like this one from Kids Craft Weekly.

Or this fun arrangement from Becoming Classy and Sophisticated!

I think my favorite may be this tree arrangement by Inspiring Creations!

Another fabulous idea I heard for keeping the true meaning of Christmas alive is to set up a nativity and have your children put one piece out at a time saving baby Jesus for Christmas morning. 

 The Fisher Price Little People set is one of my favorites!

 Playmobil also offers one!

 And HERE is a free printable version to cut out and color from Scrapbook Scrapbook.

What are some of your family's advent traditions?