Simply the Best Holiday Gifts

The holidays are a time for celebrating and decking the halls, but don’t forget the gifts. Giving and receiving presents is one of the highlights of my year. To share tokens of appreciation with friends and family is the perfect end to each year. Over the decades I’ve been celebrating Christmas, here’s just a few of my most favorite presents.

Received: Moose Munch from Harry & David

Let’s start this off with my ultimate favorite food gift: Moose Munch. Ever since I first tried this delicious blend of caramel sugar and chocolate bliss, I’ve been in love. In my opinion, Moose Munch is literally the best popcorn money can buy.

Gifted: Gold necklace

One of the most special gifts I’ve ever given is a 14k gold necklace gifted to my mother. It has her initial at the center of a heart surrounded by a ring of tiny diamonds. This gift was a mall splurge that made both my mother and me very happy.

Received: Duffy the Disney Bear

I’m a huge Duffy fan. Disney was a very important part of my childhood, and even though I was fully grown-up when Duffy was released, I have a special place in my heart for this Disney bear. I received Duffy as a Christmas gift the year he arrived at Disney World and I’ve since added many more Duffy and Shellie May toys to my collection.

Gifted: Frango Mints

Frango Mints are a go-to when it comes to gifting. Once sold at Marshall Field’s, now sold at Macy’s, the iconic chocolate is one of my favorite things to give at Christmastime.

Received: Homemade cookies

I love homemade things, especially fresh-baked cookies. There’s a magical touch in homemade cookies, even if they’re not quite perfect. This is a gift that really shows someone you care.

Gifted: Furby

A cousin of mine desperately wanted a Furby during one of the Furby crazes. Being able to secure a Furby on Black Friday was not only a major score but a gesture that was able to bring joy to a child.

Received: Pandora charm bracelet

This is something I’ve always wanted but just never got around to shopping for. Receiving a Pandora charm bracelet for Christmas was unexpected and fun. I was so happy when I opened my present to find a lovely bracelet with charms. Finally, I was part of a whole new world of tiny little charms I never had a chance to experience before.

Gifted: Disney pins

Disney pins are one of my favorite collectables. As a Disney fan, I grew up with trips to Disney World where I sporadically participated in pin-trading and purchasing. Going to Disney in December was a thrill and I was able to pick up a limited edition Disney pin for a Christmas present.

Received: Handmade jewelry

A friend in high school gifted me with a beautiful handmade necklace during my sophomore year. It was my favorite gift and I just loved that she spent the time and energy to create something completely unique and one-of-a-kind just for me.

Gifted: Flat screen TV

Another Black Friday deal here. An impulse purchase that ended up being a really fun gift. The recipient loved getting a brand new TV to replace an old clunker in the basement.

Received: Giant Woodstock plush

This gift was super fun. Woodstock was bigger than Snoopy! I got a laugh out of this gift and he’s now joined my collection of holiday decorations.

Gifted: Poinsettias

There’s something about poinsettias that really makes Christmas come alive. I’ve enjoyed giving these holiday plants to both friends and family. The red ones are festive and the white ones are elegant. It’s a win-win.

Received: Hamster

Finishing off with a very memorable Christmas gift. Receiving a hamster for Christmas was probably one of the most surprising and heart-warming gifts ever. A furry, adorable, and very lovable addition to the family.