There are so many things that make Christmas special, but I must say that handmade or homemade items are my favorite. I finally got the ornaments on the tree and I love pulling out the felt tree and candy cane ornaments that I made as a Brownie in Girl Scouts (my one and only year in the organization). And, the beautifully stitched hearts from Hungery that Mom and Dad brought back from a trip, and the white crocheted snowflakes that literally dance across the tree. I want to share a few more things that are special at our house this year.

Henry has been attending preschool this year and is loving every minute. He came home with this Advent calendar.

It reads:

Every night when prayers are said,
Remove a ring and jump in bed,
When only the bell is left to chime,
Then you know it's Christmastime.
Happy Birthday Jesus!



My friend Janet Brandt sent a special package to our house and it included this wonderful Christmas cone.



Inside the little package for Henry was a tractor ornament. The wrapping was so cute, I had to put it back together to enjoy the rest of the holiday. Although what was in the package for the girls was not Christmas related...I must show you. Janet is so creative and is very capable at using her computer and embroidery machine.



And, one final Christmas touch at the Kaisand house. My husband likes to get into the holiday spirit, too. And, although I don't have pictures of the lights he hung up in the living room from the hay track that runs through our house---they are VERY festive! And, he brought home this holiday decoration for the living room! We've watched "Happy Feet" several times this season. (My husband reads my blog, so this is for you Jeff--I love you and the decorations.)