Counting Down the Days

Last year I started a tradition to do a countdown until Christmas by books.  I love it as do the girls.  The"y don't remember the books from last year, but I know that when they are a bit older it will be fun as they try to figure out which one is which.  Grandma-from-the-mountains gave them one which I hope will be around for a while (pending batteries?).  It plays "Up on the Housetop" when you open it and we all get a kick out of it.  I have no doubts they'll remember this one in the future and seek it out.  Aunt Edesie was so sweet to think about us and send us some new ones that were a great addition.  The girls know that she is tops at picking out good books.  She sent them wrapped and everything!  I think there are a few which will be faves, as well.  I read with the girls at bedtime fairly regularly for their bedtime routine, but this small tradition puts some more life into it and I hope it helps to instill a love of reading in my little ones.