It’s the Little Things: Stocking Stuffer Ideas
Before my kids hang their stockings by the chimney with care, they pull the oversized decorative footwear over their toes, up and past their knees and walk around the house giggling madly.
If only that were the end to the season’s stuffing of stockings.
I love little things, and stocking stuffers are no exception. But beyond the orange to fill the toes of the stockings, it’s easy to get stumped as to what comes next. Kids’ Christmas lists never include stocking stuffers, it’s the big stuff; and adults never say, “Hey, you know what I’d like in my stocking this year?” So filling the socks can be tricky business. This year, instead of giving “big” gift ideas, here are some suggestions for the cool little stuff. Because it’s the little things…
Baby, it’s cold outside. It’s dark. And the bed is soooo cozy and warm. Why not hit the snooze? Because these energy fizz sticks from Arbonne are so good, you’ll actually want to drag yourself out of bed. Filled with antioxidants, vitamin B12, and energizing botanicals like ginseng and guarana, this fizzy beverage helps combat that lethargy any time of day. And fizz sticks taste good, too. A great kick-start. They come in blackberry, pomegranate, citrus and limited-edition green apple. Certified gluten-free, vegan and Kosher. $55 for 30 sticks, $44 for preferred Arbonne customers. Available at arbonne.com.*
For good little boys (and girls, from nine to 92…). 2018 is the 50th anniversary of this Mattel mainstay. Hot wheels are inexpensive and the variety is endless. Great for the kid who loves vroom-vrooming on the kitchen floor or for adult collector-counterparts (note the anniversary nod on the packaging). I thought my car-obsessed 13-year-old would enjoy a Tesla Model X, which I found for the stunningly reasonable price of $1.00 plus tax. Available at stores everywhere.
New Year’s Resolution. The news has been filled lately with the negative environmental impact of disposable straws, so why not get a head start on a green effort for the new year? Starbucks is offering a reusable cold cup (hot cups are available, too) and straw for your favorite frapp. Want to be extra festive? Buy a spare red-and-white straw and a gift card. Responsible, earth-friendly and comes with a bonus: bring in the cup and get a discount on your beverage. $3.00 for a cup and straw; $1.00 for a spare straw. Available at Starbucks stores.
Home facial. Instead of sending your loved one to the spa for a chemical peel (Yikes, does that sound like a bad idea, or is it just me?), how about the fruit gets peeled instead? Olivu 426 is a boutique in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, that has garnered national recognition (as in representation in goodie bags for the Golden Globes…) for its all-natural bath and body offerings. One of my absolute favs is the Avocado Cleansing Oil for a luxurious facial treatment. Comes in 2-, 4-, 8- and 16-oz. sizes, price ranges from $6.50 to $28.50 plus tax and S + H . Order by December 15 for holiday enjoyment. Available at olivu426.com.
Candy, anyone? It isn’t a full Christmas stocking without a sweet treat or two (or a few!) tucked inside. Jelly Belly jelly beans always delight with an endless choice of flavors, but get extra-festive in your choice with the Holiday Favorites collection of pumpkin pie, egg nog, cranberry sauce, hot chocolate and candy cane flavors. I mean, YUM. A 1.2-ounce package cost $1.00 at our local grocery store. Hunt this item down at yours or a local confectionery.
Big things come in small packages. Surprise your loved one with tickets to the theatre or a special local event. Not only is this a twist on the sometimes ho-ho-hum gift card but an unexpected find in the oft-considered trinket-holder of a Christmas stocking. Prices and events vary.
Socks in the stocking! These cozy, panoramic pairs from BlueQ will not be tossed aside a-la Ralphie and Randy. In vibrant colors and adored with darned-sweet and funny sayings and pictures, they will be the clothing your family can’t wait to try on. What’s more is BlueQ donates 1% of each sale to Doctors Without Borders. $10.99 a pair at joyofsocks.com. (Note: some of BlueQ’s choices use “colorful” language but there are plenty of other “clean” socks to choose from. My daughter’s favorite: I’m a Girl, What’s Your Superpower?)
*In full disclosure, I am an independent consultant for Arbonne International and receive a commission for any purchase made on my Arbonne website. For all other items described in this post I receive no kickback or affiliate marketing reimbursement.
