I have yet to begin the later because I am so loving Stitched in Time. So many projects I want to do now. May have to forget them being Christmas gifts and just give as I make.
We have been keeping busy with our Advent Calendar from Mouse as well. Instead of food or gift treats we have been doing daily activities with the exception of the tree stamp and pretty card (due to my slacking). The calendar is at the bottom of the stairs so every morning when K comes down it's the first thing she sees and usually does. Little pictures are added with the words to give her an idea of what it says, at three and a half I think she is getting it.
We are trying to take the focus off of presents at Christmas time and really wanting it to be more about family and traditions for her. November and December are chaotic enough with all the obligations we are expected to fulfill every year, it should be more fun than it's become, so that is what we want to give her. A month from now she won't care what gifts she was given anyway.
So the Advent Calendar, here are some of the activities we've done thus far:
string wood beads for the tree
make buttons (craft store score)
cut out snowflakes (ok I really got into this one, she colored them)
put up decorations
make potato stamps
making snow globes
decorate wooden people
create Christmas cards
paper chains
felt balls
ink and stamp
pine cone bird feeders
painting date with Daddy
Card
decorate wooden eggs
string popcorn
popsicle stick art
felt rocks
