Christmas Gifts, Stocking Fillers – Old and New Family Traditions
This Christmas is Smith’s second. Last year he was a bouncing baby and nine months old. This year he’s a bouncing toddler and will be 21 months old. Our little family is made up of Patrick my hubby, Smith our son, our dog Charlie and me.
Our Christmas tree has been standing proudly in our living room for over two weeks now without any signs of destruction. This is an achievement that those of you who aren’t familiar with the adventures of toddler playtime won’t be able to relate to. To those of you who are, I’m giving you a virtual high-five.
As a young family we are still finding our feet and creating our own traditions for Christmas. We’ve hosted Christmas dinner, but we’ve also been guests. We’ve put the tree up in early November, but have also left it until late December. We’ve sipped on eggnog, toasted with whiskey, nibbled on mince pies, and forgotten the crackers … Patrick’s nightmare.
When it comes to Christmas gifts the tradition of new pajamas and slippers come up trumps, so too do new toys for Charlie to destroy. Of course it’s always important to gift stocking fillers that suit each of us and the hobbies or interests we enjoy. Last year Smith was only finding his personality, this year he can tell you exactly what he likes.
So with these traditions and a mixture of our hobbies, here are some stocking filler inspirations for all the family:
For Dads
Patrick works hard and is on his feet a lot, so the thought of looking after his feet were the inspiration these Freshfeet™ Suede Moccasins with Thinsulate™ in brown. He’s also a whiskey lover, and loves to relish a measure when the time is right. With this in mind I chose a Whiskey Glass Set that included an Italian made glass, ice ball mould and a really funky looking stirrer. All he’ll be missing on Christmas night is a smoking jacket!
For Mums
I couldn’t resist these Short Sleeve Pinspot Pyjamas. They looked so soft online and feel so soft in reality. I believe that life is too short, so I have to be honest and tell you that the chances of this gorgeous set being kept for Christmas is slim. Paired with a pair of Freshfeet™ Suede Faux Fur Trim Mule Clogs with Silver Technology in purple to match my pink hued pj’s, I’m in for a very yummy yuletide!
For Kids
Remember I mentioned Smith can now tell you what he likes and dislikes, well he’s a big fan of The Gruffalo book. So to my delight Marks and Spencer are too and I was able to pick a gorgeously soft Long Sleeve Gruffalo Striped Dressing Gown (1-8 Years) and a matching set of the cutest pinstripe bottomed pajama set Pure Cotton Gruffalo Snow Pyjamas (1-8 Years) for Smith to wear on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning.
For Pets
Charlie is never forgotten at Christmas time and this year is no different. To show him how we appreciate his guard dog skills he’ll be presented with his very own Dog Toy Trophy. To aid in his play time with Smith he’ll be given the Flying Duck Dog Toy and just for the giggles, I can’t wait to see him chew on the Chewy Moustache Dog Toy.
For the Home
I have to come clean and say that the For the Home gift I chose, is actually a gift for myself and my ambitions at being green-fingered. It started this year and I hope to keep it thriving next year. To help me do so, I believe I need the correct equipment. I fell for the Copper Fork and Copper Trowel as soon as I saw them. Not only are they fully functional but they will look gorgeous hanging on a shelf in my kitchen next to one of my many plants.
Have you found my purchases inspiring? What Christmas traditions do you keep when shopping for your family or friends?
Collaboration Supported by Marks and Spencer & Shopping Links
Don’t Forget ↓
- The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Markets in Ireland 2024 - November 26, 2024
- Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny – Adventure for All Ages - November 22, 2024
- Discover Connemara: Guide to Holiday Homes & Top Attractions - November 13, 2024