Advent Calendars...

Or in my household

{because for some reason the mention of religion sends my fiance into fits of the vapors}

Christmas Countdown Calendars.

I love these things.  I don't know why.

We NEVER had them when I was growing up.

{lack of religious upbringing = no need for an advent calendar}

But I always liked the idea, and have loved some of the handmade alternatives to the cheesy chocolate ones you can find at the dollar store.

This year, I made my own.

yes, this is my inexplicable fake brick wall. my cool antique ornaments, passed down for generations.  a few in my collection of Santas. and a mini nativity scene thing...well, it's just Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus...and the Star.  And the suhweet Christmas Countdown calendar I made!

My "advent" calendar was made from a kit from Close to my Heart.

Via the magic of Pintrest, I have found a TON of other cool handmade Advent calendar ideas.

My favorite ones all have something different than chocolate:

Slips of paper with special holiday activities!

Such a cute idea, especially because a lot of the time we spend more time worrying through the holidays, than taking time to enjoy them and remember why we're celebrating.

What is one of your favorite Christmas traditions/decorations?

{ps- did you enter my giveaway yet?}