Gift with a Story

Thinking back about this Christmas, I really received some wonderful gifts from family and friends. Several of them came with a story, so I decided to share them with you.

These two cookies were in my stocking. Jordan had decorated these with her own little hands, adding even more sweetness to the taste.

Did you ever get a gift that you did not know you even wanted? This is one of the gifts my husband gave me, and he assures me that with all the photos I'm taking these days, I really need and should "want" an external hard drive! Thanks dear--I needed that! 

Knowing my fascination with all the Keep Calm and Carry On items I wrote about in my blog, one of my friends found this notebook and just had to get it for me. Sounds like pretty good advice for this 21st century.

One of my sons and daughter-in-laws ordered this personalized plaque for me from the Israeli artist and jeweler, Michal Negrin. They knew of my fondness for her crystal embellished jewelry, so they discovered this little sign with "bling." If you want to treat yourself to some eye candy, go to her blog here.

Along the jewelry line, I've been looking lately for dainty short necklaces that can be layered with others, and my husband found this one for me designed by Mizuki. Appearing here larger than it really is, it's only the size of a pencil eraser. So sweet.

Shalimar by Guerlain is my very favorite perfume, and this year, my husband gave me the perfume and my other son and daughter-in-law treated me to the lotion. Shalimar is the fragrance that  my grandmother wore, and when I smell it, I always think of her. I've decided to try and wear Shalimar every time I am with my granddaughter, so that she will always associate that scent with me. Do you have a signature scent?

Now, as 2009 draws to a close, I'm reflecting on the sentiment on this plate that was given to me by a friend. Absolutely, the best gift of all is our faith, our family and our friends, and as the new year begins, I'm giving thanks for all of you and wishing you God's blessings in the year to come.

Happy New Year!