Hands-on: Mini Muffin Tin Advent Calendar

This is harder to explain than I thought it would be, sorry I don't have step-by-step pictures...

Let me know if you have any questions!!

SUPPLIES

• 1 - mini-muffin tin (24 count)
• 1 pkg - 1' x 2' ProMAG Adhes-A-MAG
• 2-3 sheets of solid-colored (such as green and red) scrapbook paper [8.5" x 11" sheets should be plenty]
• 4-5 sheets of Christmas-patterned scrapbook paper [again size isn't as important, smaller would work fine if you have more... you'll need more or less depending on how you want it to look]
• Variety of Christmas-themed stickers and embellishments
• Numbers stickers [these seem to be hard to find in larger quantities... as an alternative you could stamp or print on the computer and cut out]
• Some type of adhesive - I highly recommend GLUE DOTS or a DOUBLE-SIDED TAPE PEN
• 24 scripture verses [1 per day, printed and cut out] - you can find a listing of advent verses online - on websites such as..... Faith Bible Church's Advent page
• 2 feet of Christmas-themed ribbon
• Small container [to hold date squares and scriptures as they are removed, optional]
• Tiny treats to place in each space - [this is also optional and do keep in mind the space is not airtight, so it will need to be wrapped - our marshmallows aren't coming out edible anymore - but they just trade them for fresh ones each night!]

CUTTING

1) Cut magnet sheet into 24 - 2 1/8" squares [that is 2 1/8" x 2 1/8" ;) ]

2) Cut solid-colored scrapbook paper into 24 - 2 1/4" squares [that is 2 1/4" x 2 1/4"]

3) Cut Christmas-themed scrapbook paper in 24 - 2" squares [that is 2" x 2"]

ASSEMBLING

4) Lay out the 24 larger, solid-colored squares on a flat surface - 4 columns x 6 rows.

5) Now, match up the 24 smaller, Christmas-themed squared on top of each of the larger squares as desired. Then go ahead and attach with the double-sided tape!

6) Then comes the fun part... add embellishments including numbers 1-24 to each square.

7) If you haven't already, remove film from back of magnet and attach to back of each date square.

9) Now you should be ready to place the magnets on the muffin tin!!

FINISHING

10) In order to hang your advent calendar you will need to drill holes in the top (or ask your favorite handyman - thanks, Dad!!) to attach the ribbon.

11) With the holes in place you can attach your favorite Christmas ribbon!!!

12) Insert scriptures and treats into each spot and you are ready to hang (or to gift) your advent calendar!!

Our boys are absolutely loving this nightly post-dinner routine of opening up the square, having a treat and listening to Daddy read scripture... I am hoping the time spent in devotions as a family will continue even after Christmas!!

14 days 'til Christmas!!!