ADVENT CALENDARS THAT ARE PLEASING FOR ALL AGES
The beginning of December has always been a segue to the start of holiday celebrations for me. The excitement builds for decorating, shopping, party planning and of course, the first window, drawer or door that gets opened on the advent calendar. A tradition that started around the mid 1850s, the Advent (meaning “coming of ” in Latin) started off as a natural green wreath laid horizontally and referred to as an Advent wreath. Each Sunday in December, families would gather around and light one of four candles; each representing a Sunday before Christmas. In the early 1900s, Advent calendars were introduced to create daily excitement for children during the month by receiving a special treat each day (bribery at its best). Nowadays, Advent calendars are customized for kids of all ages. Some come with a gift behind a door or in a drawer, some are empty so you can add a thoughtful treat, tiny gifts, notes or money to your loved ones to signify the 25 special days that lead to Christmas. The tradition starts again next week, so here’s a collection of a few unique ones to check out.
EASY IDEAS TO MAKE YOUR OWN ADVENT CALENDAR
Advent calendars can be as simple or intricate as you wish. Here are a few easy ways for the entire family to get excited about the buildup to the holidays by making your own. Envelopes attached to string to create a garland. In each envelope, offer up a small household chore with the promise of a financial reward on Dec. 24. Of course, add a small candy or treat along with that chore. Create an Advent calendar for your pet. Small paper bags filled with a few dried treats are guaranteed to get you dog to behave during the holiday countdown. Notes of love. Twenty-five little jars, each one marked one to 25 and each filled with a votive candle and love note. Light the candle and read your love note; how romantic!
Do you have a decor dilemma or want to give feedback? You can contact Karl Lohnes on Facebook or Instagram at Karl Lohnes Designer, or via email at klohnesdecor@ sympatico.ca. Karl has worked as a home decor expert and product designer for 25 years. He appears Thursdays during the 8 a.m. hour on Global News Morning Montreal.