Sunday, November 28, 2021

Our 2021 Advent Book Basket and Printable Labels {Plus Giveaway!}


Happy First Sunday of Advent! 

I apologize for taking so long to get this year's Advent labels created and uploaded to share! Our college kids were able to make the trip home for Thanksgiving and I didn't want to spend time blogging while they were here... The visit flew by, but at least they'll be home again in 3 1/2 weeks for Christmas break! If you could please pray for their safe travels today. Thankfully the weather is much better than it was last Tuesday and hopefully the Save-a-Deer Whistles Sean added to the front of the minivan will keep the deer (and elk, moose, etc) from jumping out into the road too... I'll be praying to their guardian angels all day! 

Anyway... back to Advent!

The length of Advent always varies from 22-28 days, beginning with the Sunday nearest to the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle (November 30th) and embracing four Sundays. The first day of Advent can fall as early as November 27th or as late as December 3rd. This year Advent begins on Sunday, November 28th.


Every Advent our family counts down the days until Christmas with picture books, Advent Calendars, and the Jesse Tree. Years ago, when we didn't have enough Christmas themed picture books to wrap one for each day of Advent, I would check some Christmas books out from the library just before Advent began, using Christmas Mosaic as a guide. We have added many books to our home library since then, giving one Christmas themed book to each of our children on the feast of St. Nicholas, and our collection has definitely grown.  (You can find this year's St. Nick books here!) 

I currently keep all of our Christmas picture books on the bottom two shelves of a corner bookshelf upstairs in our school room... In the past I have filled our Advent basket with Christmas Mosaic titles and our children's 35 Favorite Christmas Picture Books. One year I picked twenty-six of MY favorites (although I still find new favorites to add to my list each year!) and one year I left the choosing up to my husband and our oldest daughter. We've had great lists the last few years too: 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.

I'm running behind this year so I had some of our children help pick out this year's books, with their youngest siblings in mind. Now I need to go and get them all wrapped while the babies nap! 

Here's what's getting wrapped up for this year:


Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.


Advent Book Basket 

November 28 - 1st Sunday of Advent: Saved by the Lamb - set up Advent Calendars and Jesse Tree
November 29 - A Child's Christmas ABC
November 30 - Feast of St. Andrew: The Tree That's Meant to Be
December 1:  A Wish to Be a Christmas Tree
December 2: My Wonderful Christmas Tree
December 3 - First Friday: Cobweb Christmas: The Tradition of Tinsel
December 4 - First Saturday: Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree

December 5 - 2nd Sunday of Advent: Santa Mouse - write letters to Christ Child/Saint Nicholas, bake Speculaas or St. Nicholas Cookies, and decorate St. Nicholas Chocolate Coins to give to others
December 6 - Feast of St. Nicholas: Saint Nicholas - The Real Story of Christmas Legend - St. Nicholas Brunch
December 7 - Feast of St. Ambrose: Santa Claus and the Three Bears - Bake a Honeycomb Cake
December 8 - Immaculate Conception: The Miracle of St. Nicholas - Decorate Christ Candle
December 9 - Feast of St. Juan Diego: How the Grinch Stole Christmas
December 10: A Small Miracle
December 11: Our Lady's Wardrobe - Holy Mass at Dawn, Our Lady of Guadalupe Brunch

December 12 - 3rd Sunday of Advent/Gaudete Sunday: Bambinelli Sunday 
December 13 - Feast of St. Lucy: Hanna's Christmas
December 14: The Grumpy Old Ox
December 15 - Ember Wednesday: The Little Match Girl
December 16: Mary Engelbreit's Nutcracker
December 17 - O Sapientia and Ember Friday: Mortimer's Christmas Manger
December 18 - O Adonai and Ember Saturday: Who is Coming to Our House?

December 19 - 4th Sunday of Advent - O Radix Jesse: Gingerbread Pirates (The birthday boy has asked for a "pirate" theme this year... I'm going to order this book to wrap and slip in to the basket, unless anyone has a better suggestion?)
December 20 - O Clavis David: The Little Bell That Wouldn't Ring: A Christmas Story
December 21 - O Oriens and Winter Solstice: Winter is the Warmest Season
December 22 - O Rex Gentium: The Christmas Cookie Sprinkle Snitcher
December 23 - O Emmanuel: Home for Christmas (College kids finally fly home!) 
December 24 - Vigil of Christmas: A Child's Christmas Counting Book (New for this year!) 


Many years ago now (six or seven?) I switched to brown paper along with purple and pink ribbon, instead of the original purple and pink wrapping paper I would use years ago... Sometimes I use brown paper bags and sometimes I pick up a roll of brown craft paper from the craft store to use along with the ribbons I reuse every year and our homemade labels!

As always, we'll unwrap and read one book each night during Advent, following our family rosary. The rest of our book collection will be placed in additional baskets to read during the seasons of Advent and Christmas. 

If you'd like to use my little labels too, you can download my Advent Book Basket Labels for 2021 over at Dropbox.



.: ADVENT BOOK BASKET GIVEAWAY :.

Two BRAND NEW books from Sophia Press!
 


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Saturday, November 27, 2021

Regina Martyrum Productions

Regina Martyrum Productions produces the finest works of Catholic audio theatre. With emphasis on the lives of the Saints, these products are edifying, and entertaining. 

Stories hold our attention, teach us morals, and can teach a moral lesson while entertaining. We all love stories. Here at Regina Martyrum Productions, we provide high-quality, fully-dramatized Catholic stories. From Old Testament scenes to New Testament saints, we provide the best, timeless stories for today’s Catholic audiences. Engaging the power of your imagination while listening, you and your children will walk through the pages of the Church's history. These are not your run of the mill "books on tape!" Every production is packed with full cast, great music, and realistic sound effects! They are great in the car, at story time, or at anytime! 

I have been a fan of Regina Martyrum Productions ever since our oldest children were toddlers! I treasure our collection of CDs, and even some audio cassettes which we were given many many years ago. I was just telling our 16 year old that I need to pull them all back out. 

These inspiring stories of the saints will make a deep impression on both children and adults! We love all the stories, but my personal favorite (and my husbands too!) is the story of St. Gerard Majella, To Heaven Through the Window.  

Our older boys really loved The Last Viking, Ondessonk, and The Sword and the Tea. They also loved In This Sign You Shall Conquer and The Power of Prayer too!  

Note: All links are affiliate links. 


TODAY they are having an amazing Cyber Monday Sale!
60% OFF EVERYTHING for 24 HOURS on 11/29 ONLY. ðŸŽ‰

Each story is only $8.00 (usually $19.95)
Buy 5 stories for only $40 (valued at $99.75)
Buy 12 stories for only $96.00 (valued at $239.40)

Buy the whole collections for only $192.00 
(25 hours of Catholic entertainment valued over $500!)   

They are also having a giveaway today! 

"When you purchase 5 or more stories today, you are automatically entered to win one of three BONUS PRIZES.

3rd PRIZE: $50 Gift Card for even more Saints stories 
(good for an entire year or gift to anyone you choose!)

2nd PRIZE: $100 Amazon Gift card 
(a big help for your Christmas shopping!)

1st PRIZE: Win a 100% refund of your entire purchase!
(No matter how many stories you get, you keep them and we’ll refund your order with a smile!)

And just to be clear...
We stand by our 100% GUARANTEE on all of our stories. So if you aren't 100% happy, we aren’t happy."


UPDATE: If you missed yesterday's sale, you can still take advantage of THE YEAR OF ST. JOSEPH SALE! No coupon code, just instant savings! 

Buy 2, save 20% ($7.98 saved)
Buy 3, save 30% ($17.95 saved)
Buy 4+ save 50% ($39.90 saved)

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Saturday, November 20, 2021

2021 Christmas Gift Ideas & Stocking Stuffers {Plus Another Sleighful of Giveaways}


It's time for this year's list of "Christmas Gift Ideas" and another "Sleighful of Giveaways!" 

I came very close to not putting this together this year... It takes a lot of time to coordinate all the prizes, and then gather all the links for each section of gift ideas but it's fun too!  I decided to just go for it... but then regretted it almost immediately since it just takes way too much time! I really do love being able to bless over 20 families with gifts donated by all the generous sponsors though and also help with shopping ideas at the same time.  I hope it's helpful for you all!  

You can find the lists from the last six years here, here, here, here, here, and here as well as even more Catholic gift ideas listed in my past Easter posts as well: 100+ Easter Basket Stuffers & Catholic Gift Ideas and Easter Symbols: Catholic Gift Ideas.  Some of the items below have been featured in the past but they are still favorites. I've tried to only include links to things that are currently available, or were available at the time of this post, but I think a few items might be out of stock...

Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom to enter the giveaway for a chance to win one of 22 PRIZES with a combined value of over $2,400! Please keep these Catholic businesses and authors in mind when shopping for gifts this Christmas season! 

Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 
Links to St. Augustine Academy Press, Etsy, ChewsLife, Saintly Heart and Socks Religoius are also affiliate links. 


.: New Finds For Advent & Christmas 2021 :.

  1. Beneditictus Subscription - At just $5.00 per month, this is an amazing value for such a wonderful resource. 
  2. The Liturgical Year Calendar: Christmas Cycle - I've blogged more about this here. 
  3. A Child's Christmas Counting Book - We really loved the companion book which was published last year! 
  4. Sancta Nox: Christmas Matins from Bavaria
  5. Morning Star - Not Christmas themed, but this brand new book is excellent! I'm reading it aloud to my children right now. It would make a great Christmas gift, especially for children ages 9-15! 
  6. Christ the King at Ephesus - Brand new from the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles! 
  7. Christmas Blossoms - Brand new from Sophia Press! Other new releases for Christmas include Joseph's Donkey and The Beggar and the Bluebird. 
  8. Road to Bethlehem Board Game - Repeat from a couple years ago but actually adding it to our game collection this year. Looking forward to playing it with the family. 
  9. Nativity Matches from Truck & Barter - I just purchased a bunch of Candles and Matches to give as Christmas gifts from this sweet local Catholic family! The candles are amazing and I included additional links below.  


.: Feast of St. Nicholas :. 

  1. St. Nicholas Chocolate - Premium Chocolate from Germany. Also available here.
  2. The Miracle of Saint Nicholas
  3. St. Nicholas Block or December Saints from Almond Rod Toys 
  4. St. Nicholas and the Nine Gold Coins - Review can be found her.
  5. St. Nicholas Chocolate Coins (Here is my FREE document for this new updated version! You can find my original St. Nicholas Chocolate Coins in the archives.) 
  6. Drinking with St. Nick: Christmas Cocktails for Sinners and Saints from the author of Drinking with the Saints: The Sinner's Guide to a Holy Happy Hour
  7. St Nicholas with Staff Springerle Cookie Mold by House on the Hill and Saint Nicholas Cookie Stamp from Rycraft
  8. The Baker's DozenThe Baker's Dozen: A Saint Nicholas Tale 
  9. Kids St. Nicholas Socks and Adult St. Nicholas Socks from Sock Religious


.: Santa Lucia Day :.

  1. St. Lucia 8x10 Swedish Christmas God Jul Print
  2. Attendants Candle Plush
  3. Lucia Saint of Light picture book- and (hard to get!) Santa Lucia Doll from Marzipantz! 
  4. Lucia, Lucia Crown, God Jul, and Christmas Candle Cookie Stamps
  5. Lucia Crown (5 Candle and Seven Candle) for Real Candles
  6. Lucia Mug - Had to do some searching, but found it on this website!
  7. Lucia Crown  - Gold with LED Lights
  8. Forest Lucia Notecards
  9. Santa Lucia Braided Bread or Lussekatter - Bake extra for a friend! 


.: Christmas Puzzles :.

Our family loves putting together puzzles during Advent and Christmas. 
Here are some puzzles that are currently available to purchase: 
  1. Stained Glass Nativity (1000 Piece)
  2. Christkindlmarkt (1000 Piece)
  3. The Virgin of Guadalupe (1000 Piece)
  4. Midnight Mass (1000 Piece)
  5. Holy Family Jigsaw Puzzle (1000 Piece)
  6. Evening Nativity (550 Piece)
  7. Neighborhood Nativity (1000 Piece)
  8. Good Will To All (500 Piece) - This 300 Piece Version is pretty too.
  9. Stained Glass Holy Night (1000 Piece)


.: Twelve Days of Christmas :.


.: Christmas Music :.

** Some of these have unlimited free streaming included with Prime on Amazon! **
  1. Sancta Nox - Christmas Masses from Bavaria 
  2. Caroling at Ephesus
  3. Christmas at Ephesus
  4. Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring: Christmas with The Dominican Sisters of Mary
  5. Catholic Christmas Classics
  6. In Nativitate Domini - Gregorian Chants for the Four Masses of Christmas
  7. Christmas in Harvard Square
  8. Catholic Songs for Children - includes: Gather Round the Crib at Christmas and The Best Christmas Present of All
  9. In Epiphania Domini - Gregorian Chants for the Four Sundays of Epiphany
*We also love the Christmas music from Celtic Thunder, Michael Buble, Bing Crosby and so many others! I'd love to hear your favorites!  Oh, and for Advent Music check out Legends of St. Nicholas, Adventus and Advent at Ephesus!


.: Favorite Nativity Sets :.

These are some of the nativity sets our family has collected over the years. 
We have Fisher Price, Playmobil and Shining Light Doll Nativities too, and the Nativity Fabric Advent Calendar, but I especially love our wooden versions! I also love our Schleich Nativity but it's hard to find, same with A Child Is Born from Naturally Catholic. 
  1. Kurt Adler Wooden Nativity Advent Calendar with 24 Magnetic Figures
  2. Joseph Walking and Mary on the Donkey 
  3. Ostheimer Nativity Miniture Set
  4. Ostheimer Nativity Set Full Size - This was a gift a couple years ago and we've been adding to the collection. Additional pieces can be found here. 
  5. Holy Family - This statue is out year round on my kitchen windowsill. I love it! 
  6. Nativity Stable Barn
  7. Fontanini Holy Family
  8. Nativity Tea Light Candle Lantern 
  9. Childrens Nativity Blocks Starter Set and Deluxe Wooden Nativity Set from Almond Rod Toy



Once again our children helped again with this year's "Christmas Gift Ideas" post. I had them each list nine gift ideas for me to share with you all. Most are things they own with some wishes thrown in too.
Here are their answers:

Please note: In addition to their stockings, our children usually unwrap three gifts from my husband and I on Christmas morning - something they need, something they want, and one other gift which is usually faith based. We draw names on the first Sunday of Advent for Christkindl and end with a family Christkindl gift exchange. It's always the first thing they want to do after our morning prayers (or morning Mass if we didn't make it to the Midnight Mass) on Christmas Day! They also receive a stack of books either on Epiphany. The gifts listed below have been received over a number of different years/occasions or even handed down from older siblings.
.: Captain's Picks - Age 21 :.


Once again I asked my college "kids" to help with the gift guide again... 
Here is what James sent me when I asked for his list: 
  1. Motivational/Inspirational reading. Always nice knowing other people who’ve made it to the top didn’t do so by doing nothing. It requires work and determination. Also Bear is a legend <3 
  2. Some Snazzy lookin Dudes ;) They are super comfortable!! 
  3. Spiritual reading book of some sort. Always got to be working to that higher good. 
  4. Workout shoes/running shoes (mine are already kinda oldish but they have been going down hill real quick especially since going to the gym/field house a lot.)  
  5. Fun sweatshirt of some sort (either sport oooor something patriotic/police). It's cold up here in ND! haha
  6. Fun beanie or hat (trucker style hat) I'm turning into Dad with the whole hat thing... haha (Also the Coyotes hockey team absolutely stinks this year so all their apparel is getting cheap.)  
  7. Snack food (but I mean that's more towards the bottom of the list cuz I've got food available 24/7) hahah   
  8. Can keep the AirPods on the list (they're really nice for working out or studying)  
  9. Gift card maybe to like an outdoor or sport store.
(Just realized all that I am missing is pants to complete an outfit hahaha) 
Guess clothes is something people want before they go off on their own. ;D   

- I did recently buy him a pair of pants that were "supposedly" for a costume. He LOVES them! - 


.: Ranger's Picks - Age 19 :.

John never has any trouble coming up with a gift list... 
I asked for nine suggestions and he sent 15!
They aren't all pictured, but I included his full list of suggestions for you all. 
Pretty sure "receiving gifts" is his love language! ;) 
  1. apple watch 
  2. clothes - flannels, t shirts, sweatpants etc. cant go wrong with that 
  3. flags 
  4. sports apparel like soccer/hockey jerseys 
  5. stuff for guns - like ammo or holster 
  6. a nice classy jacket like a bomber jacket, topcoat, vest coats 
  7. weights or exercise equipment
  8. that little basketball hoop you got us 
  9. maybe cologne..? 
  10. hey dudes 
  11. coffee gift card 
  12. beef jerky 
  13. poker set 
  14. beanie
  15. oh you could add the book “Atomic Habits” if you want to put a book on there 


.: Twinkle Toes' Picks - Age 18 :.

Here is what she sent me to include: 
(P.S. I love how she decorated her dorm room... So cute!) 
  1. Vera Bradley XL Campus Back Pack in Bedford Blooms print  - I love having this for putting my books in on campus because it is so spacious and comfortable to wear.
  2. Lessons from Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris - This is such a great book because not only does it help you with your manners, ways for entertaining, and finding pleasure in the simple things, but it also give you advice on healthy ways to eat, exercise, dressing in a modest/stylish way, etc.
  3. LED Curtain String Lights (Warm White) - These make my dorm room look/feel so cozy and it makes it so fun to just hangout in my dorm and work on homework in a comfortable/cozy environment. 
  4. Letter Board - This is great for decoration and to put quotes on!! Right now I have “Be what God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire” and seeing that every day or while doing homework is very motivational.
  5. 16"x20" Wood Frame Magnetic Chalkboard Calendar with Hexagon Cork Bulletin Board Tiles - Some friends gave me these for my graduation and I them so much! The hexagons are so nice to hang up pictures of friends/incoming events on and the chalkboard calendar makes it easy to see what I have going on in the next week/month. 
  6. Pink 6-Can Mini Fridge - I’ve gotten so many complements on my little fridge since getting to college and it’s so nice to have cold sparkling water ready whenever I’m studying. It also is Pink!! 
  7. Be Kind Anyway T-Shirt from The Little Rose Shop - St. Teresa of Calcutta’s “Anyway” poem is my absolute favorite poem because it shows how this earth is just temporary and that you should not become down because of something someone said or did. “Be Kind Anyway” is a part of that poem and it is so simple yet it means so much. If you haven’t read that poem before, you should! It’s such a beautiful one!
  8. Wish List: AirPods - One thing I wish I had here at college is AirPods because they would so helpful listening to videos while working out or in the Nest. 
  9. Secret Hitler - Secret Hitler is such a fun game to find out who Secret Hitler is and to try to win either as fascists or liberals. It’s so fun and it tests your trust in friends!
 

.: Chiquita's Picks - Age 16 :.


Here is what she sent me to include: 
  1. Academic Planner - This has been a life saver for school! Keeps everything nice and tidy!
  2. Charles Dickens Series - My Dad thinks I’m crazy, but I really love Charles Dickens’ works! He’s just an amazing author! (wish I could say the same about Emily Bronte… blech!)
  3. Jean Skirt - ummmm…. yep, it’s another repeat! (Note: She has this one, this one and this one. She also loves her Rocketdog boots!)
  4. JessaKae dresses - yet again! I realize that none of my favorites really change over the years…
  5. Bow - Always got to have this one on the list! It’s just that great! Though, I haven’t been able to get out and shoot it much, it’s always a favorite pastime for me and the younger sibs with their bows.
  6. Green Ember Mug, St. Clare of Assisi Mug, and Latte with Lewis Mug - Time to crank out the Chai Tea! I love all of these mugs and use them all the time! Anything to keep the morale up for school!
  7. Our Life, Our Sweetness, and Our Hope t-shirt (or Our Lady of Guadalupe t-shirt) - I love all of my Catholic t-shirts, but this one is definitely a favorite! They match with so much and last sooo long! I wore them with nearly every outfit last summer!  
  8. The Shadow of His Wings - A pretty awesome book, all true, and great for someone who’s into the world wars! Full of Nazi’s, imprisonment, adventure, and the importance of the Eucharist!
  9. The New Roman Catholic Missal by Father Lasance - It was very handy on the Nun Run and so easy to use! And it’s big enough so it’s hard to forget about! I haven’t been able to read the rest of my Easter books, but they all look REALLY good!


.: Scout's Picks - Age 14 :.


  1. Trekking The National Parks Board Game
  2. St. Michael Socks and St. Joseph Socks from Socks Religious 
  3. Genesis Bow Kit (Red)
  4. Traxxas Rustler with Battery/Charger (Such a FUN gift from Grandpa & Grandma last summer!) 
  5. Ranger's Apprentice Series 1-12 
  6. Biodegradable Airsoft BBS  (this Airsoft gun is on his wishlist after seeing a friends)
  7. Snowboard Foam Sled (I bought a couple from Costco last year for the boys.) 
  8. WISH LIST: Holy Bible, Leather Bound (Would love one like his older brothers.) 
  9. LEGO Creator Sets and City Sets have always been favorites, but lately LEGO Ideas has been coming up with some "really cool" sets. His personal favorites are the Ship in a Bottle and the Medieval Blacksmith.


.: Rose's Picks - Age 11 :.

  1. Twirled Paper Craft Kit
  2. (Her sisters) ColorIt Glitter Gel Pens
  3. Country House Garden Doll House Sticker Book
  4. Awesomely Austen Books - She only has Emma so far, but would love to read the rest of the series including Pride & Prejudice, Persuasion, Sense & Sensibility, Northanger Abbey and Mansfield Park! 
  5. LEGO Winter Village sets  - Last year she was given the Elf Club House! 
  6. Mini Bennett Satchel from Coach - She received the light pink version last Christmas after admiring her older sister's white version for years! I purchased both of the girls purses on eBay at a fraction of the MSRP.
  7. Jolly Holiday Gown and other dress up from Trish Scully 
  8. Magnificat Nail Polish from Lisieux
  9. Posie Handwarmers - Such a sweet gift from Grandma last Christmas! 


.: Bud's Picks - Age 9 :.

In addition to our collection of Lincoln Logs, Playmobil, Thomas Wooden Railway, and LEGO, here are some more specific favorites that Bud loves... 
  1. Traxxas Rustler with Battery/Charger (Such a FUN gift from Grandpa & Grandma last summer!) 
  2. Fontanini Nativity Set Pieces - His Godparents have been sending him a new addition to his nativity set each Christmas! He really loves the LED light up Campfire he received last Christmas. 
  3. Monster Burger Truck - All the LEGO Creator Sets are great! He also loves the LEGO Great Vehicles including the Snow Groomer. (Our kids love any sets that they can turn into jobs/businesses when they are playing together with their LEGO Town.)
  4. Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales
  5. Sting Sword to go along with his favorite copy of The Hobbit
  6. The Picture Bible
  7. Rollerblade Fury Boy's Adjustable Inline Skate
  8. Clue: The Classic Edition
  9. Polar Bear - Another loved gift from his Godparents along with his Arctic Fox, Red Fox and River Otter Plush. All of the Wild Republic stuffed animals are great. 


.: Grace's Picks - Age 4 :.

  1. PlanToys Alphabet A-Z -  I'm excited to find this Saint Version too! This will be one of her Christmas gifts this year. 
  2. Lola Dutch "Costume" - White Short Sleeve Peter Pan Collar Polo, Red Cardigan, and Bubblegum Pink Tutu with black flats to go along with her Lola Dutch book collection.
  3. Balance Bike - Her's is the RoyalBaby Knight Balance Bike from Costco awhile back.  I've had my eyes on one like this with a basket or this one for her little sister. So cute!
  4. Franciscan Friends Lacing Set from Saintly Heart
  5. Dragon Rescue Kit - This tiny little "kit" would make a cute stocking stuffer for little hands to discover. My parents also gave the girls the Hug a Llama Kit too when they visited last summer.
  6. 24 Brillant Bee Crayons and her new Blueberry Math 
  7. Snowmen at Night and Snowmen at Work
  8. Bible Stories for Baby Hands from St. Augustine Academy Press
  9. Mouse Pencil Holder with Mercurius Stockmar Color Giants Pencils


.: Joy's Picks - Age 2 :.

  1. Musical Lili Llama (Target seems to have it right now.)- They also make a Chicken, Pony, Zebra, and this cute Forest Trio Set. 
  2. Putty the Bunny - Definitely her favorite stuffed animal right now. 
  3. Pride and Prejudice - And many of the other BabyLit Storybooks and Board Books! 
  4. Taco Belle Bib - Bella Tunno makes great bibs! We also have the Dogs Out Bib, Feed Me & Can't Even, and I Put the Lit in Little. 
  5. Zara the Unicorn from Cuddle + Kind 
  6. Jellycat Stuffed Animals always make great gifts! She calls her Dancing Elephant "my baby!" 
  7. Rosaries from Chews Life 
  8. Cute Dresses like this one from Hanna Andersson with Black Ankle Boots
  9. NEW: Traditional Latin Mass: A Missal for Children - This new book looks like a great addition to our Mass bag! 


.: Favorite Wooden Toys :.

Adding this bonus category of our favorite wooden toys from over the years!
  1. Fagus Wooden Trucks and Vehicles  - German crafted and made of solid Beechwood. We have been collecting for awhile and have the Limited Edition Red Fire Engine, Jeep, Snow Plow add on, Container Tipper Truck, Front End Loader, Conveyor Belt, and the Excavator.  I have a couple more stashed away for future gets. Look for them in the US at The Wooden Wagon, Nova Natural and Bella Luna Toys. 
  2. Interlocking Blocks - I keep a basket of these (2 or 3 sets of 92) in a basket in our living room and they are played with daily! 
  3. Ostheimer Toys - Collectible hand carved figures made in Germany and finished with non-toxic stains and finished with natural oils. Collections include: Family Figures, Fairy Tale Characters, Farm Animals, Woodland Animals, Zoo Animals, and landscape pieces, such as Trees, Fences, Ponds, Grass and much more!  We have been collecting these for years now. They have gotten hard to come by the past couple years (frequently out of stock everywhere in the US) and have really increased in price, but we still love them.  You can find them in the US at the same stores as the Fagus Vehicles above. 
  4. Melissa & Doug Medieval Folding Castle - We bought this over ten years ago and it's still a favorite. We have (and LOVE the Princess Castle too- it was the first one I purchased of the two) but unfortunately it's not currently available. Also, wood toys have at least doubled in price... Back then I paid around $50 for each! They have been played with by all of our children and are still getting played with frequently! We also have the Fold and Go Wooden Dollhouse. 
  5. Saint Blocks from Almond Rod Toys - SAVE 10% with Coupon Code: ROSES (valid until Dec 12, 2021)
  6. Grimms Spiel und Holz Wooden Toys - We love the Stacking Rainbows, Elements Sets and Flower.
  7. An Alphabet of Painted Saints
  8. Fairy Tale Cottage Dollhouse - Rose received this for her birthday Snow White & Rose Red Birthday. Even it gets decorated for Christmas around here! Occasionally the Advent Wreath even gets hung. 
  9. Seri's Dollhouse - The older girls received this back in 2012 and have loved using it as a home for their Calico Critters over the years. 


.: Gift Ideas for Women :.

  1. Crown Maple® Bourbon Barrel Aged organic maple syrup - I try to avoid sugar, but I sure love maple syrup!  This is my favorite and I always stock up when it's in stock at Costco for adding to my morning coffee with a little cream. It's like liquid gold! 
  2. Discovery Set of Candles from Truck & Barter
  3. The Summa Domestica: 3 Volume Set by Leila Lawler - These can also be purchased individually: Volume 1: Home Culture, Volume 2: Education and Volume 3: Housekeeping.  A couple other favorites from back when I was a young mother include We and Our Children: How to Make a Catholic Home and Around the Year with the Von Trapp Family from past list. 
  4. Seven Sorrows of Mary Chaplet - My mom gave me this gorgeous chaplet for my birthday last year that was made by Et Corde LLC.  Other favorite shops include Come Holy Spirit Rosaries, The Rose Picker, and VivamusOrantes.
  5. Heirloom Seed Collections from St. Clare Heirloom Seeds
  7. Staub Cast Iron 9-qt Round Cocotte - Cherry  - I have had this for years and it's my favorite! A 13.25-qt Le Creuset Enameled Dutch Oven is also on my "someday" wishlist, but it's such an investment... 
  8. Necklaces from Telos Art Shop
  9. St. Escriva Mug from Annunciation Designs
Don't forget the Catholic Aprons over at Catholic Cuisine too! 



.: Gift Ideas for Men :.

Here is what Sean sent me when I asked him for nine suggestions:
  1. Coat of Arms/Family Crest Coasters - Made in the USA, every member family must show pride in their family name and honor their heritage. The family crest reminds us of our forefathers, the honor they brought to the family, and the hopes of meeting them again in the afterlife. Coffee drinkers, guests, etc. will appreciate seeing these in your home:
  2. Celtic Cross Warriors Shield - Get your Irishman something to bring out his fighting spirit and to remind him of his role as family protector. This celtic cross shield is perfect for his office, above the fireplace or to adorn the mancave. 
  3. The Imitation of Christ - Want to see your father or husband spiritually improve each day? Get him to read one chapter a day out of The Imitation of Christ. Lauded by St. Therese of Lisieux as the only other book she needed besides the Sacred Scriptures, the short 1-2 page chapters in this masterpiece will surely bring a conversion of heart and a spiritual renewal so much needed in today’s world. The illustrations alone within the book are worthy of their own meditations.
  4. Saint Benedict: The Story of the Father of the Western Monks - This story and the others in the series (Published by TAN Books; December 31,1942) are excellent books for dads to read to the children at dinner time - while they eat and before dad takes his first bite. It is a time honored tradition in monastic communities for a member to read aloud at dinner time. It also serves as an opportunity for the head of the household to perform a good service for his family and demonstrate the importance of the material he is reading by waiting for his dinner:
  5. Adjustable Weight Bench
  6. Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells 
  7. My Catholic Faith Classic 1954 Edition - My Catholic Faith is a tastefully illustrated and perfectly concise traditional catechism for all ages. It summarizes all the main points of our faith using only two pages for each instruction. This comprehensive catechism will be a family heirloom in the home
  8. Shooter's Bible - Every man in the home needs familiarity with firearms. Yes, he needs to first have his own copy of The Bible, but next he needs… the Shooter’s Bible. "Shooter's Bible, for generations the most trusted source of detailed information on firearms, offers gun enthusiasts expert knowledge and advice on gun care."
  9. Gift Card - Finally, every guy needs an opportunity to pick out his favorite thing at Cabela’s. 


.: Gifts In Honor of St. Joseph :. 


.: 2022 Catholic Calendars and Planners :.

  1. 2022 Traditional Latin Mass Calendar from FSSP (Extraordinary Form) 
  2. 2022 Saints Calendar and 16 Month Daily Planner from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form -My husband and I both use this every year!)
  3. 2022 Catholic Calendar from Saints Galore (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form) 
  4. 2022 Catholic Planner and 2022 Traditional Catholic Planner - I haven't seen this in person, but it looks nice from the previews! 
  5. 2022 Mary and the Saints Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
  6. 2022 Theology of the Home Planner from TAN (Liturgical Calendar Highlights) 
  7. 2022 The Angels Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
  8. The Illustrated Liturgical Year Calendar Subscription - Receive four 18x24 fully colored and illustrated liturgical calendar posters each quarter!
  9. 2022 The Life of Our Lord Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)



.: A Sleighful of Giveaways :.

There will be one winner for each of the following 22 PRIZES with a COMBINED VALUE OF OVER $2,400!!! 

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Prize #01 - An original painting - a hand-calligraphed and illustrated Beer Blessing in Latin. It is a petite 5"x7" - nice for the kitchen. Sumi inks and gouache on paper. Sponsored by Pelican Printery House (value $250.00)


Congratulations, Rosie T! 

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Prize #02 - Three Saints Around the World prints, a signed Saints Around the World book and 6 saint blocks sponsored by Almond Rod Toys (value $170.00)


BONUS: SAVE 10% with Coupon Code: ROSES (valid until Dec 12, 2021)

Congratulations, Sarah F! 

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Prize #03 - Special SaintCards Bundle! Includes: SaintCards: Base Game, Deluxe Blue Game Mat, SaintCards: Duel Expansion, and the Brand new Mendicant Orders Expansion w/Purple Game Mat from the new 2020 Collection! Total of: 212 SaintCards, 2 Deluxe Game Mats, 2 Jesus Cards, and 100 Treasures! Sponsored by SaintCards (value $155.00)


Congratulations, Jen G! 

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Prize #04 - A set of posters, the Christmas cycle from Sophia Institute Press and a year free membership to Liturgy of the Home Digital which includes Digital access to black & white and Color calendars, Coloring pages for the whole year, Digital access to black & white and color Monthly Dedication Images and One saint story per week with audio reading of the story (Stories are abridged from Butler's Lives of the Saints by Kateri Lawless) sponsored by Liturgy of the Home (value $150.00)


Congratulations, Nikki! 

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Prize #05 - One 2022 Quarterly Subscription Box sponsored by Telos Art Shop (value $148.00)


Congratulations, Rachael U! 

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Prize #06 - Marian Prize including Lapis Lazuli and Swarovski crystal Rosary, Marian Planner (this is a blank bullet journal style planner, I also have a printable version available with more page layouts), Scapular necklace (Embroidered woolen panels with mini vintage scapular medals & miraculous medal. The chain has Swarovski crystal beads wire wrapped into it), Miraculous Medal drop earrings, Stood the Mournful Mother (prints of this book are also available as PDF) sponsored by Life, Love & Sacred Art (value $144.98)


Congratulations, Giselle! 

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Prize #07 - Mary Pacifier Doll, Chews Life Rosary, Divine Mercy Teether, Gianna Stretch & Wrap Rosary Bracelet and Emmaus Crib Shoes sponsored by Chews Life (value $140.00)


Congratulations, Colleen! 

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Prize #08 - 4 Prayer Pillowcases and a $50 Prayer Pillowcases Gift Card to shop with or gift away! The gift bundle of 100% cotton Prayer Pillowcases includes the Holy Family with St. Bede’s beautiful prayer for Advent, Our Lady of Good Counsel with the Salve Regina, encouragement from Padre Pio and the essential Prayer to St. Michael. (value $130.00)


Pssst! Prayer Pillowcases is sharing a shopping code for 15% off! 
Shop prayerpillowcases.com with code WinterRoses for grace-filled gifts and stocking stuffers you can personalize! (Coupon expires Dec. 5th.)

Congratulations, Alena Therese! 

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Prize #09 - Advent Prize including O Antiphon Ornament Kit (also offers PDF version), St. Andrew Christmas Novena Print (PDF found here), Wire wrapped copper & Swarovski crystal St. Andrew Christmas Novena Chaplet sponsored by Life, Love & Sacred Art (value $110.00)


Congratulations, Frannie Ruth! 

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Prize #10 - 12 Nail Polishes and 3 Lip Balms sponsored by Lisieux Nail Polishes (value $110.00)


Congratulations, Tracy S! 


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Prize #11 - Set of 8 Cookie Stamps with Recipe Booklet (Includes: #416 - Snow Star, #463 - Christmas Ornament, #020 - Frosty, #355 - Trumpeting Angel, #023 - Holly Sprig (1), #030 - Christmas Tree, # 368 - Nativity and #271 - Jolly Santa) sponsored by Rycraft Cookie Stamps (value $103.92)


Congratulations, Kristy! 

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Prize #12 - Advent Crate which includes a Catholic Jesse Tree complete with 28 cards (and Mother Mary!) for the longest of Advent seasons, not just the 24 days of December, 10 gorgeous Advent Liturgical Art Prints, 10 Advent Calendar Stickers, Advent Music Playlist, “O’Antiphons” Ornaments, 8x10 print of the St. Andrew Christmas Novena to guide your family in the meditative prayer that lasts from November 30 - Christmas Day and increases our awareness of the real focus of Christmas, Thank You Cards featuring Baby Jesus, Advent Prayer Table Topper, and a Christmas Music Playlist sponsored by Catholic Family Crate (value $100.00)


Congratulations, Shannon! 

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Prize #13 - St. Therese Rosary from The Rose Picker (value $98.00)


Congratulations, Leslie! 

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Prize #14 - My Picture Book of First Communion, My Picture Book of First Confession, and Bible Stories for Baby Hands sponsored by St. Augustine Academy Press (value $79.65)


Congratulations, Sandra F! 


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Prize #15 - 2 signed copies of Morning Star and a signed limited edition Morning Star poster (poster frame not included) sponsored by Celestine Publications (value $75.00)


Congratulations, Jamie S! 


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Prize #16 - Gift package including her brand new release Waykeepers of Valdeor, Champion of Valdeor and a New Zealand mohair lambswool scarf set in purple multi sponsored by author Sandralena Hanley (value $75.00)


Congratulations, Kristina N! 

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Prize #17 - Patron Saint Rosary with Our Lady of Czestochowa (winner can select a custom saint for the back side of the center medal), Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Rosary hanger, Traditional Rosary Guide (not yet in print I will be binding this myself, but a PDF will be available in the shop), and PDF sets of my newest printables: Jesus & Marian Holy Cards sponsored by My Little Patron (value $72.00)


Congratulations, Andrea C! 


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Prize #18 - Gift Pack from author Leslea Wahl. This bundle includes signed copies of my books The Perfect Blindside and eXtreme Blindside. Copies of CatholicTeenBooks anthologies - Gifts: Visible & Invisible and Treasures: Visible & Invisible. And a metal bookmark, a bible verse magnet, a set of sticky notes, and a Saint Sebastian card and medal. (value $65.00)


Congratulations, Jennifer F! 

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Prize #19 - Luxurious Double Wick Candle and Sacred Heart Decorative Matches sponsored by Truck + Barter (value $60.25)


Congratulations, Katie L! 


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Prize #20 - Special St. Francis of Assisi box which focuses on that first "Nativity" sponsored by Saints Around the World (value $58.00)


Use coupon code GIVEROSES2021 for a 7% DISCOUNT off
from all subscription boxes. Expires December 24, 2021.

Congratulations, Janelle W! 

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Coupon Code: Roses10 for 10% OFF (non sale items)

Congratulations, Natalie K! 

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Prize #22 - Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Pocket Rosary in African Opal and Solid Bronze sponsored by Come Holy Spirit Rosaries (value $50.00)


Congratulations, Kristen F! 


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Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter box below:
Lots of bonus entries can be earned by visiting the sponsors!


Here are the links to all of our book lists, our 2021 Advent Book Basket and the list of books our children will receive this year on the feast of St. Nicholas.


Looking for more ideas? 
Here are the links to our 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 Christmas Gift Lists!

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