Since we started our little family I have wanted to have an advent calendar that we can use year after year, one that doesn’t only give chocolates. Over the last couple of years I have seen a few in shops, but none of them were the one for our family.

Hmmm. What to do?

I did the only obvious thing: I put it on my Day Zero list. And then promptly did nothing more about it. I do that a lot.

I kind of assumed that I would teach myself to sew (see 10 and 11 on my day zero list) and that I would fashion something out of vintage fabric in true domestic goddess style. But so far I have failed spectacularly to even look like crossing 10 and 11 off the list.

To ensure another year doesn’t pass without me getting off my arse and making it, I decided I should probably do something about it. And so my personal challenge for November was set. For obvious reasons I had to think of something that I could make that did not involve sewing.

And then inspiration struck.

Once I had all the supplies it was really rather straight forward.

I even got to use the glue gun I got for Christmas two years ago for the first time. That was very exciting, not least because I was unsupervised. I am not allowed to use tools without Mr TOPP being around since I managed to make a 10cm hole in the wall with a 4mm drill bit. I am naturally talented.

Fortunately the glue mostly stayed were it was supposed to be and I still have full, independent use of all my fingers.

It’s not perfect, but I reckon that just adds to its rustic charm.

I can’t wait for the M’s to see it tomorrow.

And now it’s over to you. If you set yourself a challenge for November let us know how you got on using the linky below.

And if you want to join in with a challenge for December come back tomorrow to sign up.