2018 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" from my amazing and generous sponsors! Despite our big move last month, I somehow managed to pull it together at the last minute with some help from my children!! Now I need to get back to unpacking and find the rest of our Advent boxes... We are all looking forward to Advent and Christmas in our new home and parish!

You can find the lists from the last three years 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.

Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom to enter the giveaway for a chance to win one of 25 PRIZES, from my generous sponsors here at Shower of Roses, with a combined value of over $1,800! Please keep these Catholic businesses in mind when shopping for gifts this Christmas season! 

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

.: Fun New Finds for Advent and Christmas 2018 :.

1. 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 - I don't drink but I enjoy reading these books! 
2. The Holy Family Nativity Play Set from Shining Light Dolls - Love the expecting Blessed Mother! Perfect for Advent!
3. Our Lady of Guadalupe: The Graphic Novel - Also available directly from TAN. 
4. LEGO Advent Wreath - My boys have all the LEGO they would need to make this on their own, but fun idea! 
5. Around the Year with the Von Trapp Family - I have a treasured vintage out of print copy of this book and am so happy to see it back in print! I pre-ordered a copy of it to give my oldest daughter back in September... but I forgot to change the shipping address and it's sitting on my porch back in Oregon. 
6. My Jesse Tree Sticker Set - This looks fun! 
7. Celebrating a Merry Catholic Christmas: A Guide to the Customs and Feast Days of Advent and Christmas - Haven't seen this in person yet but it looks great! 
8. Nativity Tea Light Candle Lantern - I bought this last Christmas but I don't think I ever shared it here on the blog. 
9. The Bible Story from St. Augustine Academy Press (Also available on Amazon here) - This would make an excellent addition to the Jesse Tree. 

.: Some Favorite Advent and Christmas Music :. 

** Some of these have unlimited free streaming included with Prime on Amazon! **

1. Advent at Ephesus
2. Adventus 
3. Legends of St. Nicholas
4. Caroling at Ephesus
5. Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring: Christmas with The Dominican Sisters of Mary
6. Catholic Songs for Children - includes: Gather Round the Crib at Christmas and The Best Christmas Present of All

.: Favorites for the Feast of St. Nicholas :. 

1. St. Nicholas with Moveable Arms from Ostheimer - Plus Free Printable St. Nicholas gift Tags in the archives! You can find him from Bella Luna and The Wooden Wagon. This is another version.  
2. Saint Nicholas Cookie Stamp from Rycraft
3. St. Nicholas and the Nine Gold Coins - Review can be found here. Plus decorate your own St. Nicholas Chocolate Coins with this free printable. 
4. TruSweets Organic Candy Canes - One of our children is allergic to Red 40. Love that theses are made without food coloring! I bought a couple boxes from Thrive last year. If you don't have a Thrive membership, here's my referral link to save you 20%. You can also find them at Natural Grocers. 
5. The Bakers Dozen - and recipe for cookies in the archives! Unlike the candy canes, these were unfortunately not Red 40 free... 
6. St. Nicholas Shining Light Doll - picture from our snowy 2013 celebration!
7. St. Nicholas Statue
8. St. Nicholas Block from Almond Rod Toys
9. The Miracle of St. Nicholas

Scroll through all of our past St. Nicholas posts here. 

.: Favorites for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe :.

1. Mañanitas CD or MP3 from Casa Maria/Sister Servants
2. Our Lady of Guadalupe and Our Lady of Guadalupe Pop-Up Book - More pictures can be found here. 
3. Our Lady of Guadalupe from Prayer Pillowcases
4. Cloak of Roses - Our Lady of Guadalupe from Regina Martryum Productions
5. Our Lady of Guadalupe and Crown from The Little Habit - You can enter to win this below! 
6. The Story of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Empress of the Americas
7. Juan Diego: Messenger of Guadalupe DVD
8. Our Lady of Guadalupe from Almond Rod Toys
9. Our Lady of Guadalupe from Shining Light Dolls

We also love the Our Lady of Guadalupe Puzzle, if you can find it, 

and we usually celebrate with an Our Lady of Guadalupe Brunch or Dinner!

Scroll through all our past Our Lady of Guadalupe posts here.

.: Favorites for Santa Lucia Day :.

1. Santa Lucia Girl from Armadillo Dreams
2. Baby Lucia Crown and Attendants Candle 
3. Lucia Morning in Sweden
4. St. Lucia 8x10 Print from Sleightholm Folk Art
5. Lucia Crown for Real Candles
6. Lucia Mug with Song - Such a cute mug! It's no longer available from where I purchased it, but I just found it online here. 
7. Saint Lucia Dress & Wreath from The Little Habit (also pictured are the discontinued American Girl doll outfits and accessories as well. I found them on eBay years ago.) 
8. Lucia Cookie Stamp from Rycraft
9. NEW this year: Saint Lucy from Shining Light Dolls 

I couldn't fit everything above! Here are some more great items to check out:

1. Lucia Saint of Light
2. St. Lucy from Naturally Catholic
3. Saint Lucy from Tiny Saints
4. Starboy Hat and Star Set
5. Saint Lucy Articulated Paper Doll in Color from Stella Marigold Art

Scroll through all of our past St. Lucy posts here.

.: Favorite Advent and Christmas Puzzles :.

Our family loves putting together puzzles during Advent and Christmas. 
Here are some past favorites that are still available to purchase: 

1. The Invitation (Noah's Ark - perfect for with Jesse Tree) - more pictures in the archives
2. All Will Adore Him Jigsaw Puzzle - similar to this one in the archives
3. Glorious Nativity Jigsaw Puzzle  - more pictures in the archives
4. Stained Glass Holy Night Jigsaw Puzzle 
5. Forest Nativity Shaped Jigsaw Puzzle 
6. Holy Family Jigsaw Puzzle 
7. Heaven on Earth Jigsaw Puzzle 
8. Stained Glass Nativity Jigsaw Puzzle 
9. Midnight Mass

.: Favorite Nativity Sets :.

These are some of the nativity sets our family has collected over the years.

1. Kurt Adler Wooden Nativity Advent Calendar with 24 Magnetic Figures
2. Playmobil Nativity (we have an older style)
3. Nativity Fabric Advent Calendar
4. Mary on Donkey and Joseph Walking
5. Wooden 5-Piece Nativity scene Puzzle
6. Ostheimer MINI Nativity - I purchased some of the pieces during a sale last year and plan to add a few more to our collection this year. 
7. Childrens Nativity Blocks Starter Set and Deluxe Wooden Nativity Set from Almond Rod Toy
8. Ostheimer Nativity Set Full Size - This was a gift last year and I look forward to adding to the collection one or two pieces at a time. Available from Bella Luna. 
9. A Child Is Born, Three Kings, and Shepherds and Sheep from Naturally Catholic

Brand new Nativity Set from Shining Light Dolls - I think this will become a favorite too! 

As I mentioned above, 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. 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 Christmas or Epiphany. The gifts listed below have been received over a number of different years/occasions.

.: Captain's Picks - Age 18 :.

1. The Shadow of His Wings: The True Story of Fr. Gereon Goldmann, OFM - Still a favorite.
2. Gift Cards - Like food/snacks, gift cards are always a great gift for teens. 
3. St. Maximilian Kolbe Quote Mug
4. T-Shirts (He got this Prancing Pony T-Shirt in his Easter Basket this year.)  
5. Liturgy of the Hours
6. Fun Ties: He loves his Star Wars Line Drawing Tie and Irish Flag Tie
7. Star Wars Catch Phrase - Played at friend's home. Very fun! 
8. MacBook with Captain America Shield Decal
9. Chips and Playing Cards Poker - Hearth And Hand

.: Ranger's Picks - Age 16 :.

1. Wish List: LEGO Creator Expert Downtown Diner - The Detective's Office is definitely his favorite out of all the Modular sets, but this one is at the top of his wishlist. He also loves Architecture and Creator sets. 
2. Spikeball - We don't own this the boys had a blast playing it with their soccer team in Oregon! My mom let me know that she is planning on giving it to them this year! shhhh! 
3. 7 Wonders - A bit of a learning curve to play, but fun! 
4. Video Drone AP - This gift from Uncle Brian and Aunt Meagan last Christmas was a hit!
5. Ranger's Apprentice Books and The Brotherband Chronicles (Always a suggestion from one of my boys... He'll be receiving the brand new release of The Red Fox Clan. Shhhh!) 
6. Sushi Go! - The Pick and Pass Card Game
7. Wish List: MacBook (Our oldest son received one for his 18th birthday last summer. Our 16 year old is a senior this year too and we'll most likely get him one for his 17th birthday or as a graduation gift. Can't believe they will both be headed to college next year!) 
8. North Face Men's Inlux Insulated Jacket - found this on clearance last year and it's now his favorite. Basically clothing is always a hit with my teens! 
9. Taylor Made Spider Putter  - He saved up and bought this putter for himself last golf season. 

.: Twinkle Toes' Picks - Age 15 :.

1. Emily Books: Emily of New Moon, Emily Climbs, and Emily's Quest
2. St. Joan of Arc T-Shirt from Catholic T-Shirt Club - The boys enjoyed this subscription for awhile and then I changed it to a size S subscription for the girls to build up their collection of Catholic T-Shirts. Such a fun club! 
3. Floral Coffee Mug
4. Little Secrets All Natural Chocolate Candy
5. Montana Emu Ranch Lip Balm - Finally something that works!
6. Wish List: When Calls the Heart Christmas Special and Complete Season 5 - She already has and loves When Calls the Heart Year 4 DVDs (She has the Collector's Editions of Season 1, Season 2, Season 3, and Season 4. 
7. Coach Satchel - Watch for sales on this... I paid less than $100. 
8. Long Sleeve Floral Casual Swing Pleated T-Shirt Dress with Pockets 
9. Custom Book Blanket from Sweet Sequels with all of her favorites!

.: Chiquita's Picks - Age 13 :.

1. St. Philomena Outfit for 18" Doll from The Little Habit
2. The Green Ember Books
3. Into the Wardrobe Book Blanket from Sweet Sequels
4. Wingspan Optics Spectator 8X32 Compact Binoculars for Bird Watching
5. Hand-embroidered Scapular from StellaMarigoldArt - She and her sister received these years ago and after wearing them daily (including camping/swimming in them during the summer) they are starting to wear out. 
6. Kipling Sebastian Crossbody Bag 
7. Lisieux Nail Polish
8. Kindle Paperwhite with Leather Case and Vera Bradley E-Reader Sleeve in Northern Lights to match her Backpack (great sales directly from Vera Bradley) 
9. St. Clare of Assisi Quote Mug (from this year's Easter Basket) 

.: Snuggles' Picks - Age 11 :.

1. Mines of Moria: We Dwarf the Competition T-Shirt (to go along with his favorite book: The Hobbit: Illustrated Edition)
2. The Wingfeather Saga: On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness, North! Or Be Eaten, The Monster in the Hollows, The Warden and the Wolf King 
3. Sting Sword 
4. Snap Circuits Extreme (All the Snap Circuits sets are great!) 
5. Custom Hobbit/Lord of the Rings Book Blanket from Sweet Sequels
6. LEGO Creator Sets and City Sets (On his last birthday he loved the LEGO Pickup and Caravan from Grandpa and Grandma.)
7. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Game
8. Singtrix Party Bundle Karaoke System
9. Flag Football (I am not sure what set my husband picked out from Dick's last Christmas, but the Flag Football has been a hit with all the kids this past year.) 

.: Rose's Picks - Age 8 :.

1. St. Joan of Arc Paper Dolls - available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts
2. Lunch Basket with Liner from Bella Luna Toys 
3. Ostheimer Goose Girl with Geese - I purchased them from The Wooden Wagon
4. Jellycat Twinkle Bunny
5. Little House on the Prairie Audio CDs
6. Adventures of Nathaniel B. Oakes and Never Squeeze a Honeybee! The Continuing Adventure of Nathaniel B. Oakes
7. Little Women Blanket from Sweet Sequels 
8. Calico Critters - These have been favorites for many years and are always on the list of favorites for all the girls. She loves her Kangaroo family! 
9. Pride and Prejudice Seek and Find

.: Bud's Picks - Age 6 :.

In addition to our collection of Lincoln Logs, Playmobil, Thomas Wooden Railway, and LEGO, here are some more favorite toys that Bud loves and I would buy again... He still LOVES his Red Fox too!

1. "I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas..." - Last Christmas he got a Hippopotamus and this year the Baby Hippo is at the top of his wish list. Ostheimer Noah's Ark, Figures, and Animals have been past gifts and they are played with daily. I plan to add the Baby Hippo to his collection this year and maybe a few others. Like all handcrafted wooden toys, these are an investment, but they are so beautiful and definitely heirloom quality. I always watch for sales from Bella Luna Toys and The Wooden Wagon. 
2. Franklin Sports NHL Mini Hockey Goal Set of 2
3. Fagus Tipper Truck (Available Fagus Toys from Amazon and The Wooden Wagon)
4. Interlocking Wooden Blocks from Nova Natural ... "Can I play with these now?! You can make all sorts of stuff with them!" 
5. The Biggest Bear ... "It's awesome." 
6. Cash Register from Nova Natural ... "It dings and it has real paper!" 
7. Red Fox - This one was on last year's list, but he still loves his Wild Republic Red Fox from his godparents. All of the Wild Republic stuffed animals are great. 
8. St. Thomas Becket Soft Linen Doll - I bought this last year and forgot to give it to him. It will be one of his gifts this year. 
9. Sequence for Kids ... "Most of the games we play are boring.... but this one IS NOT!" 

.: Grace's Picks - Age 1 :.

1. Extra Large 12-Piece Rainbow Tunnel
2. Hape Mr. Tambourine Kid's Wooden Instrument 
3. Ostheimer Wooden Animals - She loves these too and will often be seen carrying around the Mama and Baby Giraffes. They are her favorite. 
4. 100% Pro-Life Onesie and Jellycat Stuffed Animals - She has this Bashful Bunny in Tulip Pink and Cream, Lamb, Black and White Cat, and Fuddlewuddle Monkey
5. Baby Baby Signing Time
6. All Natural Tnee's Tee from her Wild One Birthday - Available direct on their website. 
7. Idaho State Wooden Baby Rattle from Bannor Toys - I got her the Oregon Rattle last year (with Black and Orange Beads - Go Beavs!) and now we need to get her the Idaho Rattle too! 
8. Shining Light Dolls
9. Hydro Flask Sippy
10. She still loves her Rosary from Chews Life too! 

.: A Few of My Favorite Things :.

1. Morning Offering Mug
2. Vintage Pearl and Crystal Miraculous Medal Earrings from Gail's Designs
3. Blessed Be God Prayer Book and my  Hand Embroidered Scapulars from StellaMarigoldArt
4. Nordic Ware Bundt Pans 
5. Catholic Aprons from Catholic Cuisine
6. Peppermint Foot Cream from The Cloister Shop

.: 2019 Catholic Calendars and Planners :.

1. 2019 Traditional Latin Mass Calendar from FSSP (Extraordinary Form) 
2. 2019 Catholic Calendar from Saints Galore (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form) 
3. 2019 A Nun's Life Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
4. 2019 Saints Calendar and 16 Month Daily Planner from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form -My husband and I both use this every year!)
5. The Catholic Daily Planner™ from Michele Quigley (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
6. Blessed Is She 2019 Calendar YEARLY Planner (Ordinary Form)
7. 2019 The Life of Our Lord Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
8. 2019 Defending Christendom Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
9. 2019 Mary and the Saints Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)

Here are the links to all of our book lists, our 2018 Advent Book Basket and the list of books our children will receive this year on the feast of St. Nicholas.

Here are the links to all of our book lists, our 2018 Advent Book Basket and the list of books our children will receive this year on the feast of St. Nicholas.

Links for Advent Planning from the Archives

Looking for more ideas? 

Here's our 2015, 2016, and 2017 Christmas Gift Ideas!

  

2017 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" from my amazing and generous sponsors!  (You can the lists from the last two years 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.) 

In last year's Christmas Gift post I shared with you all that we were expecting a surprise baby! It's been a long hard year - between Hyperemesis Gravidarum (just thinking about it makes my stomach churn... you know it's bad when your children's letters on the Eve of St. Nick say "I want you to help mommy stop throwing up... because I know how it feels to throw up!"), debilitating back issues (which I'm still struggling with but are slowly improving), and adjusting to a challenging newborn - but we somehow survived and are all so very grateful for our little "Grace!" She is as cute as can be, but doesn't like to be put down much so once again I've asked our children to help me with this year's gift guide! Like last year, I had them each list nine of their past favorite gifts for me to share with you all. You'll find each of their picks below along with other favorites for Advent and Christmas. Even with their help this post has taken pretty much every free moment for the past couple weeks to finish the post and finalize the giveaway, but I'm SO EXCITED to share it with you and send so many of my visitors here at Shower of Roses gifts this upcoming Advent!

Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom to enter the giveaway for a chance to win one of 29 PRIZES, from my generous sponsors here at Shower of Roses, with a combined value of over $2,500!!! Please keep these Catholic businesses in mind when shopping for gifts this Christmas! 

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

.: Fun New Finds for Advent and Christmas 2017 :.

1. Advent Candles: The last couple year's we've been using the 100% Beeswax Advent Taper Candles from The Cloister Shoppe but this year they are only offering them locally... Other options include: Big Dipper Wax Works (I'm considering these), Toadily Handmade Beeswax Candles, or Honey Candles. We also use these pillar candles in pink and purple for our large wreath. If you are looking for less expensive candles these might be a good option. Our children have also enjoyed this Advent Candle Craft Kit but the candles burn very fast. 
2. The Wonder Story and The Wonder Days from St. Augustine Academy Press (These sweet books for children are part of a set of four by the same author, which have been lovingly restored from the 1920s originals. Intended for little hands, they all have large, thick, durable pages (not quite a board book, but a step up) and lots of full color illustrations. The Wonder Story tells the tale of Christ’s coming to earth as a little child; this story is then continued in The Wonder Days, which shows us His Hidden Life in the home at Nazareth.)
3. Shepherds and Sheep from Naturally Catholic (This will be one of our O Antiphon gifts this year! I'm hoping to share more about the rest of our O Antiphon picks, along with one last giveaway, next weekend. It's such a lovely addition to our A Child Is Born Nativity Puzzle Scene and Three Kings Wise Men Puzzle Scene)
4. Rooted in Hope - I haven't seen this in person but it looks lovely. "Specially created for Advent 2017, this beautiful book integrates Bible study, journaling, and thoughtful planning for the season."
5. Nativity Cookie Stamp from Rycraft
6. The Bayberry Christmas Eve Candle and Christmas Tree Creche Candle from The Cloister Shoppe (I also have this Peppermint Foot Cream on my wish list.) 
7. Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring: Christmas with The Dominican Sisters of Mary (Our collection of music for Advent and Christmas also includes: Advent at Ephesus, Adventus -Tracks 1-5 for the First Week of Advent, Legends of Nicholas and Caroling at Ephesus.)
8. FSSP Christmas Card Novena - These aren't new, we've used them many times over the years, but I wanted to share them with you all! I love that they are available online now. 
9. The Christmas Book from St. Augustine Academy Press (Also available on Amazon here) - So happy to see this available again! We have an old OOP edition. "This book unfolds the story of the celebration of Christmas. Beginning with its gospel and history, the author leads us through the festivities of the Middle Ages, to the decline and eventual revival of Christmas customs in Europe and in America."

.: Fun New Finds for Advent Feast Days :.

1. New Christmas Books for the Feast of St. Nicholas
2. St. Nicholas Nail Polish from Lisieux  (So many fun colors perfect for all the liturgical seasons and holy days!) 
3. St. Nicholas Holy Card or Wood Magnet from Portraits of Saints also available as a Wood Plaque (10% of all sales is donated to FSSP! So many beautiful saints to choose from!) 
4. Wholesome Organic or TruSweets Organic Candy Canes (One of our children is allergic to Red 40. Love that theses are made without food coloring! I bought a couple boxes from Thrive. If you don't have a Thrive membership, here's my referral link to save you 20%! With how hard it is for me to get to the store, our membership has been a blessing!) 
5. Saint Nicholas and Lucia Cookie Stamps from Rycraft
6. Honeycomb Cake on the Feast of St. Ambrose - Here's a less expensive option (only $3.95!) on the cake pan we have.  Here's another option as well. 
7. Lussekatter Buns and Wooden Christmas Candle to go along with the Saint Lucia Dress and Wreath from The Little Habit
8. Lucia Sleeper and Long John Pajamas (Instagram: picture here and new customers can save 20% with my refer a friend link) You can find our "My First Lucia Crown" here. 
9. An Introduction to the Liturgical Year and The Way to Bethlehem (Available directly from the publisher.) 

Scroll through all of our past St. Nicholas posts here. 

Scroll through all our past Our Lady of Guadalupe posts here.

Scroll through all of our past St. Lucy posts here.

.: Favorite Advent and Christmas Puzzles :.

Our family loves putting together puzzles during Advent and Christmas. 
Here are some past favorites that are still available to purchase: 

1. The Invitation (Noah's Ark - perfect for with Jesse Tree) - more pictures in the archives
2. Stained Glass Window Jigsaw Puzzle - similar to this one in the archives
3. Glorious Nativity Jigsaw Puzzle  - more pictures in the archives
4. Stained Glass Holy Night Jigsaw Puzzle 
5. Forest Nativity Shaped Jigsaw Puzzle 
6. Holy Family Jigsaw Puzzle 
7. Heaven on Earth Jigsaw Puzzle 
8. Stained Glass Nativity Jigsaw Puzzle 
9. Midnight Mass (Our NEW puzzle find for this year! Can't wait to start!) 

.: Favorite Nativity Sets :.

These are some of the nativity sets our family has collected over the years.

1. Mary on Donkey and Joseph Walking
2. Nativity Set Cookie Cutters and Cookie Cutters tell the Story of Christmas
3. Kurt Adler Wooden Nativity Advent Calendar with 24 Magnetic Figures
4. Nativity Fabric Advent Calendar
5. A Child Is Born and Three Kings from Naturally Catholic (New for this year: Shepherds and Sheep! So beautiful!) 
6. Playmobil Nativity (we have an older style)
7. Wooden 5-Piece Nativity scene Puzzle
8. Childrens Nativity Blocks Starter Set and Deluxe Wooden Nativity Set from Almond Rod Toy
9. Ostheimer MINI Nativity - I purchased some of the pieces during a sale early this year and am so excited to start collecting this beautiful wooden nativity.  I'm thinking about tucking a few of the pieces into shoes/slippers on the feast of St. Nicholas and maybe a few more into Christmas stockings. We'll see! 

As I mentioned above, our kids 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. 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 Christmas or Epiphany. The gifts listed below have been received over a number of different years/occasions.

.: Captain's Picks - Age 17 :.

1. This Peanuts fan of ours jokingly started his list of picks by quoting Charlie Brown Christmas: "Please note the size and color of each item, and send as many as possible. If it seems too complicated, make it easy on yourself: just send money. How about tens and twenties?" - He won't be getting "cold, hard cash!" but gift cards for activities are always a great pick for teens... lift tickets for skiing, bowling, paint ball, ice skating, etc.
2. Favorite Sports Team Clothing (He loves the beanie his Dad picked out for him last year - similar to this one or these. He'd love this Hooded Sweatshirt, but the price would have to drop... a lot!) and/or Sports Gear (ski mask, gloves, socks -- last year he got these Captain America Golf Balls)
3. FOOD (Beef Jerky, Coffee and Restaurant Gift Cards, Gas Gift Cards - I'm considering some Subway, Red Robin, and Cold Stone Gift Cards for this year for our teens.)  
4.  T-Shirts (He got this Coffee T-Shirt in his Back-to-School Schultute this year. He also has this Chemistry themed tee along with some great Catholic T-shirts including St. Benedict Medal, The Lord Be With You T-Shirt, and St. Patrick.)  New This Year: Get Holy or Die Tryin'
5. Catholic Bible with Custom Cover
6. The Brotherband Chronicles and Ranger's Apprentice Books (He doesn't know about the brand new release of The Caldera coming out this month... I have already pre-ordered a copy. Shhhh!) 
7. Music CDs (Keith Harkin and Celtic Thunder are a couple favorites)
8. Wish List: MacBook (He'll probably just end up getting a Flash Drive... though we do need to help the boys get laptops sometime in the next year and a half... before they head to college!) 
9. Sacred Passion of Jesus Rosary from Loreto Rosaries 

.: Ranger's Picks - Age 15 :.

1. LEGO Creator Expert Detective's Office - definitely his favorite out of all the Modular sets. He also loves Architecture and Creator sets. 
2. Bear Grylls Folding Sheath Knife and/or Survival Hatchet
3. DVDs: The Monuments Men, Valkyrie, For Greater Glory, The Count of Monte Cristo, Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Hobbit Trilogy, Thor, to name a few... 
4. Catholic T-Shirt Club - The boys have really enjoyed sharing this subscription. One of their favorite shirts for the year is currently available without subscribing: St. Benedict T-Shirt
5. ENO Hammock with Suspension System (He received the OneLink Hammock Shelter System for his birthday earlier this year. I got it for an amazing price - over 60% off - last year on Cyber Monday.) 
6. St. Augustine Quote Mug
7. Bose Mini BlueTooth Speaker  (Noise Canceling Headphones are still loved and used frequently by our highschoolers, especially for their online classes. They have this pair and this pair.) 
8. Black Diamond Spot Headlamp
9. Gnarly Tees Men's I'm Only Nerdy Periodically T-Shirt (I've been having fun picking out t-shirts for the kids this past year including some fun science related tees as they study Chemistry and Biology. Clothing is always needed and makes a great/practical gift - American Eagle Flannel Shirts, Dress Shirts, Slim Straight Jeans, etc - Watch for sales and I always make sure to click over from Ebates first to earn cash back on purchases!)

.: Twinkle Toes' Picks - Age 14 :.

1. Marrying Mr. Darcy Board Game (She had a Jane Austen themed birthday this year and this was one of her gifts. The girls have really enjoyed playing it together! I'm hoping to surprise her with the Emma Expansion for Christmas.) 
2. Jane Austen: The Complete Works
3. Emma and Lizzie Prints from Sleightholm Folk Art
4. Be Yourself!: A Journal for Catholic Girls paired with Gel Pens (check Costco) or Colored Pencils
5. Who's Your Hero? "Heart" Premium Girly Tee (from this year's Easter Basket) 
6. Catherine of Siena Quote Mug
7. Heartland Sterling Silver Large Triple Slide Rose with Miraculous Pendant (she received this from her Grandparents for Confirmation this year)
8. Kindle Paperwhite with Leather Case and Vera Bradley E-Reader Sleeve (great sales directly from Vera Bradley) 
9. 24 Days of Clinique (She enjoyed this Advent Calendar last year after turning 13. I got last year's version at an amazing price on Cyber Monday. So much fun! Beauty Supplies in general are great stocking stuffers - Hair Brush, Curling Iron, Manicure Sets, Burt's Bees Lip Balm and Lip Shimmer, Nail Polish, etc.) 

On her Wish list: When Calls the Heart Year 4 DVDs (She has the Collector's Editions of Season 1, Season 2, and Season 3)

.: Chiquita's Picks - Age 12 :.

1. Basket filled with a sketchbook, journal, watercolor crayons and water brushes. (She also loves Paint-byNumber Kits including Chickadees and Lilacs and Goldfinches.)
2. Our Lady of Guadalupe Pillowcase
3. Kipling Syro Crossbody Shoulder Bag (I had a little debate with the sales clerk when I bought this "so plain and boring" purse for my soon-to-be 12 year old, but I knew it'd be perfect for her and it has been. She loves it!) 
4. The Chronicles of Narnia Box Set: Full-Color Collector's Edition (The Little House on the Prairie collection, audio, and The Little House Cookbook were also included on her list of favorites.)
5. Bible, Custom Bible Cover and Letter Board
6. The Texas Panhandle Series: The Good Land, The Wide Horizon, The Wind Blows Free (They seem to be out of print but Kindle versions are available of the first two.) 
7. Vera Bradley Grande Laptop Backpack in Northern Lights with matching Lunch Bunch (Even though we homeschool, my kids all use and love their backpacks - currently 50% off direct from Vera Bradley!) 
8. St. Benedict Medal Bracelet
9. St. Lucy Doll from The Little Rose Shop and St. Lucia Original Painting from Sleightholm Folk Art

.: Snuggles' Picks - Age 10 :.

1. Playmobil NHL Hockey Arena with Zamboni Machine and favorite players (The boys are fans of all of our Playmobil, especially soldiers and boats: Soldier Boat, Viking Longboat, Royal Ship of Egypt, and Roman Galley)
2. Will Rider #1: The Relic of Perilous Falls (He hasn't read book #2 yet.) 
3. Cool Story Bilbo Navy Kids T-Shirt (to go along with his favorite book: The Hobbit: Illustrated Edition)
4. Ostheimer Dragon and Black Knight on Red Horse (aka St. George!) 
5. Zing Air Storm Fire Tek Bow, Red (An awesome birthday gift from Uncle Brian and Aunt Meagan. The older boys loved it too!) 
6. LEGO Creator Sets (Beachside Vacation and Apple Tree House are a couple favorites.) Lakeside Lodge and the Van & Caravan are a couple favorites!) 
7. St. Michael Archangel Missal Cover made to fit A Young Catholic's Daily Missal with his name embroidered on the back (He also loves his St. Michael T-Shirt.) I've mentioned it before, but it's worth mentioning again: Miniature Mass Kit and Baptism Set from Our Father's House (pictures of my son using his Baptism set here and kids playing Mass here and here. The boys also love all their vestments including their White Vestment Set from Interior Castle Goods.)
8. What About Baseball Board Game (Definitely a hit! The kids all loved this game after he received it on his birthday this year.) 
9. Hyper Tough 3+1 LED Work Light

.: Rose's Picks - Age 7 :.

1. Fairy Tale Cottage Dollhouse with Wooden Ostheimer Figures 
2. Playmobil Toys - We especially love our sets that came with miniature Advent Wreaths and Nativity Sets! Definitely worth watching for. You can find more pictures in the Archives: The Dolls Christmas
3. Classic Red Cloak (also available in Celestial Blue, Teal Leaves, and Floral) 
4. Rapunzel by Sarah Gibb 
5. Her Baby Sister... and other Dolls, Clothing & Accessories (Saint Habits and Accessories from The Little Habit are favorites! She also loves her Therese doll, paperback book, and her accessories plus Sunday Best from Dolls from Heaven. I posted a review here.) 
6. Princess Matching Game
7. Jellycat Bashful Lamb
8. Hape Happy Harp Kid's Wooden Musical Instrument
9. St. Therese Fabric Doll from The Little Rose Shop (She loves all her St. Therese dolls including this Saint Therese from Trendzilly and a Saints n' Stitches pattern available here.)

.: Bud's Picks - Age 5 :.

In addition to our collection of Lincoln Logs, Playmobil, Thomas Wooden Railway, and LEGO, here are some more favorite toys that Bud loves and I would buy again...

1. Ostheimer Noah's Ark, Figures, and Animals - Like all handcrafted wooden toys, these are an investment, but they are so beautiful and definitely heirloom quality. Last year I was given a generous Christmas bonus from work to put towards gifts and I splurged on these for the December birthdays and Christmas. We've added additional figures to our collection on Easter and a couple birthdays this year and I'm planning to add some more this Christmas. I've watched for sales and have ordered some additional figures them from Bella Luna Toys and The Wooden Wagon. They are played with nearly every day and I love seeing them around our home! Note: The Ark is huge. 
2. Wild Republic 12" Red Fox (He actually doesn't have this but fell in love with it when I purchased it to give to one the seniors on his older sister's soccer team. I think I'm going to order another to give him for either his birthday or Christmas this year!) 
3. Saint Blocks from Almond Rod Toys (and the rest of our stacking blocks... I blogged more about them here.) 
4. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Folding Medieval Castle
5. Tegu Magnetic Wooden Blocks (A gift from his Godparents - so much fun!) 
6. Little Unicorn Cotton Muslin Blanket Quilt- Rolling Hills 
7. Leather Swords and Shields from Made by Alejandro
8. Wheely Bug Cow, Small and Large (This has been a favorite for years. It's still a favorite. Eventually I'd like to get the Ladybug for Grace!) 
9. Hand Painted Wooden Saints from Catholic Folk Toys (custom orders available - Tammy's hand painted saint dolls were the very first I ever saw online many years ago and inspired me to paint my Alphabet of Saints. I love her dolls!) with Miniature Birettas from Michele Quigley

.: Baby Grace's Picks :.

1. Sugarbooger Silicone Teether, Matryoshka Doll
2. Jellycat Stuffed Animals - She has this Bashful Bunny in Tulip Pink and Cream
3. Pink Guardian Angel 
4. Skip Hop Baby Treetop Friends Activity Gym
5. Wooden Camera Rattle - Also pictured: DockATot and Grace Floral Hooded Towel
6. FanFan the Fawn Teether  - We have Sophie but I think FanFan will be in her stocking
7. Wish List: Double Pink Chews Life Rosary from Chews Life Rosary
8. Tula Free-to-Grow in Blossom  - Best carrier I've ever had! She loves it too.
9. Peek-A-Boo Forest Soft Book, Sir Prance A Lot is another favorite 

.: New Baby Picks :.

After getting rid of nearly all our baby gear, here are a few of the things that have made their way into our home since Grace was born.  Wish I would have had a few of these with the last seven!

1. DockATot (hasn't been quite as awesome as the reviews, but I don't regret the purchase)
2. "I love you most ardently" Pride & Prejudice Onesie 
3. Moses Basket with Sheepskin Natural Baby Blanket
4. Muslin Blankets including this Bamboo Muslin Swaddling Blanket, Hearts by Lulujo Baby
5. Pack 'n Play with Portable Napper, Changing Station and Bassinet with Washable Bamboo Changing Pad Liners (love these liners!) 
6. Little Unicorn Cotton Hooded Towel & Wash Cloth Set (also love this Grace Floral Hooded Towel)
7. Calming Baby Bubble Bath and Soft Baby Bath Washcloths from Copper Pearl
8. My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow
9. Rock 'n Play Sleeper (Borrowed from a friend - so awesome!) 

A few more favorites include: Honest Rose Blossom Diapers, Decade of Roses Baby Gown from Baby My Love, Large Triple Layer Burp Cloths from Copper Pearl, and these Baby Bump and Milestone Blocks from Bannor Toys

.: Scapulars, Veils, Rosaries and More :.

1. Black + Gold Infinity Veil from Robin Nest Lane
2. IHS Devotional Candle and Rosary Flip Book 
3. St. Joseph Rosary from Loreto Rosaries (A recent gift to my husband - he loves it!) 
4. St. Therese Rose Earrings from Gail's Designs
5. Hand Embroidered/Sewn Scapulars and Medals from StellaMarigoldArt
6. St. Therese the Little Flower Rosary Bracelet from Loreto Rosaries
7. Drinking with the Saints: The Sinner's Guide to a Holy Happy Hour (Another past gift for my husband! I enjoy reading though it. Great book!) 
8. St. Therese Apron from Catholic Cuisine
9. Crocheted Wool Rosary Roses from The Fig and Thimble (In the archives: Roses for Baby Jesus) 

.: 2018 Catholic Calendars and Planners :.

1. 2018 Traditional Latin Mass Calendar from FSSP (Extraordinary Form) 
2. 2018 Catholic Calendar - 160th Anniversary of Lourdes from Saints Galore (Extraordinary Form) 
3. 2018 Drinking With the Monks from TAN (Ordinary Form and Extraordinary Form - I think I want to get my husband this one this year!)  
4. 2018 Saints Calendar and 16 Month Daily Planner from TAN (Ordinary Form and Extraordinary Form -My husband and I both use this every year!)
5. The Catholic Daily Planner™ from Michele Quigley (Ordinary Form and Extraordinary Form - I miss using this one this year!)
6. 2018 Scripture Coloring Calendar from Someday Saints Designs (My 14 year old will love this!)
7. 2018 Mary and the Saints Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form and Extraordinary Form)
8. 2018 The Life of Our Lord Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form and Extraordinary Form)
9. 2018 Angels Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form and Extraordinary Form)

You can find our complete collection of Advent & Christmas Books, the links to all of our book lists, and the list of books our children will receive this year in the archives.

Here are the links to our complete collection of Advent & Christmas Books, the links to all of our book lists, our 2017 Advent Book Basket and the list of books our children will receive this year on the feast of St. Nicholas.

Links for Advent Planning from the Archives

Enter the Christmas Mosaic Giveaway by 11/25/2017!

Looking for more ideas? Here's our 2015 and 2016 Gift Ideas!