Stockings are probably still my favourite part of Christmas presents. In my family we like to make stockings something extra and exciting. It is the place for the random little things you would never otherwise get (like a vintage porcelain bear) but will adore. Here are some of the things I'm hoping to slip into stockings and find in mine.
Remember Felted Soap, $13? It was floating around one of my favourite stores a few years ago and I love how thick and foamy and lovely the suds get. I'm thinking I might even have a crack at making some and if I run out of time, there is an abundance on etsy.
Porcelain Bear, $10 - When I was a little girl I collected the Hagen Renaker animals sold at the zoo gift shop in Syracuse, NY. I recently rediscovered them and would love a bear or fox or rabbit or badger to add to my collection.
These temporary Tattly Tattoos, $15, would be perfect in everyone's stocking, regardless of gender or age.
Chocolate Espresso Beans are such a quintessential stocking treat in my mind and they'd be perfect for all of the students in my life who might need the boost when they go back to school in January.
I love these Guest Tooth Brushes, $13, because they are gorgeous. I don't care if they don't work, they are beautiful.
The packaging of the Caru Skin Care Bars, $7.95, is lovely and I hear they are amazing. Perfect for both genders and all ages.
My aunt exposed me to the loveliness that is Dragon Fly Earl Grey Rooibos, $7.41. It has to be ordered from the UK and so it's a bit of a treat for me here but it's so exceptionally delicious that Christmas is the perfect time to get some (hint, hint, Mum).
In the same vein as the tea, British Candies are the best in the universe. Don't talk to me about your Hershey bar. My two favourites are among the most difficult to find here but a Crunchie Bar or chocolate Smarties taste like the very best day.
I'm the oldest of five McIntosh-Burke children and I call all the younger siblings 'the bunnies' because they are so cute, and sweet and patient when I snuggle them against their will (especially my brother). Boiled eggs in egg cups with toast soldiers and a cup of tea is the breakfast of champions and I think that the bunnies might like to have theirs with an eggcup portrait of themselves. Rabbit Egg Cup, $3.95
Is there anyone alive who doesn't like Legos? There is something so satisfying about sitting at the kitchen table on Christmas listening to David Sedaris read The Santaland Diaries and putting together some small project and this LEGO Architecture Empire State Building, $17.99, would be just the thing. Plus it would be cool on your desk when you return to work in the dreariness that is January.