STOCKINGS FILLED WITH LOVE
Stockings are a cherished Christmas tradition, and when thoughtfully curated, they can be the most meaningful part of the holiday. My own childhood stocking holds a special place in my heart. My mom lovingly stitched and embroidered one for each of her ten children, even with each of our names across the top. They were so adorable and treasure having it still. They were definitely stockings filled with love…. usually simple things like fruit and candy.
When creating stockings for loved ones, think of them as personalized packages that reflect the recipient’s personality and likes. Here are some creative ideas for everyone on your list.
FOR YOUR HUSBAND: Practical is best for them….. at least that’s what I’ve found. Fun socks, mini bottles of hot sauce, a keychain multitool, card games, golf balls and accessories (or whatever sport they like). If they are into grooming, get them products that they wouldn’t normally spend money on for themselves. Get them their favorite treat such as caramel corn, nuts, salami and cheeses, favorite coffer or chocolates. I also always add in a carwash pass.
MOST FUN ARE THE GRANDKIDS OR KIDS: Cater to their individual interests and ages. For example my granddaughter loves fidget toys, one likes makeup, and one just likes cash. One year I added to his stocking small wrapped boxes with cash in them and he loved it! Gift cards to favorite restaurants is another favorite. Small craft kits is something my youngest granddaughter loves, and charm necklaces for all of the girls. For the boys I think games, small lego sets, and for all of them I add fun socks.
FOR THE GIRLS
FOR THE BOYS
FOR YOUR BEST FRIEND: Pamper your bestie with travel-sized luxury items such as hand lotion, a mini candle, a small journal or notebook for their desks, or a piece of jewelry. And what about personalized touches like a monogrammed luggage tag or their favorite tea? And never forget chocolate (at least that’s what I say). Some gourmet hot chocolate is a cute idea too. If they like books, get them a short read. I always think of things that I would LOVE and more often than not, it’s what my friends would love as well.
FOR PARENTS: One of the best gifts I ever got my mama, was doing the Twelve Days of Christmas for her. I sent her a box early in December with twelve wrapped packages. You could do the same except for pack them up in a beautiful Christmas stocking. I remember giving her a small tic-tac-toe game for her table, some bubblebath, a box of thank you cards, a Christmas kitchen towel, some cozy socks (socks are a popular item for ANYONE). An item I forgot that I know she would have loved, is a word puzzle book. She loved the whole idea of the Twelve Days, because they were all small and practical.
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The key to giving a stocking filled with LOVE, is of courst to make them unique to the person receiving it. Filling it with thoughtful and purposeful gifts that will bring joy to them, will make them more meaningful. These small gifts will bring them JOY long after the holidays are over!
