On the first day of Christmas...

...and so it begins...25 days til Christmas starts today!! Time to turn Christmas music on and hang an ornament on your advent calendar.
This time last year some great friends introduced me to Pandora and I am HOOKED! It's what's playing while I run, while I work on my computer and it will fill our house with Christmas music this year...unless you are in the garage while Brandon has the Sirius radio Christmas channel blaring.
We are super excited for the holidays this year, even more then usual. Our youngest is five (will be 6 right after Christmas), our oldest will be home on leave from the army and my sister's family, whom we haven't seen in years will be here for a WEEK! YAY!

So, let's get this party started! Whether you LOVE the holidays like I do, or are a grinch at heart, try doing something fun each day. Here are some ideas:

GIVE

Remember the true meaning of Christmas and help others.
Buy food for a homeless person (or someone in need).  This does not have to be expensive. $5 should cover lunch.
We all see people standing with signs, needing help. One popular place for people to stand in my town is close to a Subway restaurant. I have thought about getting a few $10 gift cards and giving those. Look around for ways to help others.

Play

This fun Virtual Countdown Calendar features a different thing to make or do with kids each day.

Santa sent an elf to our house again this year. Based on "The Elf on the Shelf", we found a plushy (MUCH cheaper) elf and attached a note from Santa. He will keep coming for short visits, then reporting back to Santa. Its a GREAT way to keep little ones "being good" during this exciting time of year.
Here are some awesome ideas for elf adventures: 101 Elf on the shelf ideas; Fun Ideas; Pinterest Board; Gift ideas for elf to bring