Much Love Monday

Good morning, can you believe we are already in the third week of November? Incredible! Infact if I recall correctly this time last year I was already desperate to put up Christmas decorations whereas this year it has really snuck up on me. This week is all about list making and getting ready to go away on holiday on Saturday and when we return it will be just a few days short of December and the first Sunday of Advent.

More and more I am seeing the most stunning Advent Calendars around and just last week, when I was out shopping with my Mum I saw a whole box of the most beautiful card ones. Growing up, my brother and I would always have one of those chocolate advents with a festive picture hidden behind but I can distinctly remember a couple of friends had gorgeous wooden ones with a treat each day inside, which I was always jealous of. So I thought today for a 'Much Love Monday' post it would be very appropriate to share advent calendars I love this year with you all.

Starting with the oldie but goodie card ones; Matthew Rice, who is a fairly local English artist produces amazing intricate card picture calendars each year.

(Matthew Rice)

(Orchard Cards)

There also seem to be more and more three-dimensional ones around this year, such as card houses or villages. I particularly like the pale colour schemes in both of the ones below.

(Aspen and Brown)

(Phoenix Trading)

One day I would love to make my own version, possibly one of the fabric variety like these three little beauties.

(StitchSprite on Etsy)

(marthastewart)

(Chamomile Barn)

Marta has provided endless amounts of festive inspiration in the last week and I may have just left an over the top gushing comment on her blog telling her so! I adore her homemade advent bookshelf she made last year.

(MartaWrites)

Etsy, as ever provides numerous sensational calendars to either buy or make yourself.

(JulieMarie on Etsy)

(pkre8tive on Etsy)

Finally, last year I think I talked about this wonderful idea of wrapping up 24 childrens Christmas story books to open each evening at bedtime. They don't have to be new books but just festive themed. I found the idea on Savouring the Details but I think I came across the image below on Tumblr.

(Savoring the Details)

Aren't they all fabulous? Which one is your favourite? Do any of you have a family heirloom which you bring out each year or have you made a beautiful one of your own? Please tell, I would love to hear what you adorn you own homes with.

Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead.