Well, it’s that time of year, once again; time for bloggers to become Honorary Peddlers of Wares. Whether an item here and there, or an entire list all at once, you’re sure to find something new and shiny. As you might imagine, I kinda love it. After all, you just never know when you’ll happen upon the very thing you never knew you always wanted.

Still, if push came to shove, and I was forced to count all my gifts upon one hand, I’d never need consult another. I’d know exactly what I’d choose. Because it’s the simple things that make Christmas, Christmas:

A reminder of Christmas past . . .

For me, that would be oranges. You see, when my mom was little, oranges were a pretty big deal. They couldn’t afford them any time save Christmas, so finding them under the tree was quite a treat. While we were never quite so poor, oranges still symbolize Christmas to me. They’re tasty, sure, but they also remind me from whence I’ve come, and for all I’ve to be thankful.

A little something to turn any moment, into a celebration . . .

Festive napkins play the part quite nicely. Of course, this may come as no surprise, considering I’m world renown for my napkin fetish. Can you blame me? They’re such an easy {and cheap} way to make ordinary moments, something quite extraordinary.  And the gift of a party, quite out of the blue?! Well, that’s pretty fabulous, too.

Something to light the darkness . . .

Tapers make great gifts. They’re easily incorporated into many a theme; they’re easily wrapped with a bow. They’re useful . . . but they also hint of romance and a little something more. For when you give the gift of a candle, you’re giving more than light with which to read, should the electricity go out; you’re giving {the hope for} bright days and happy moments. What can I say? I’m an english major. We do love our symbolism.

Something to warm you . . .

Warm socks, slippers, robes, flannel pjs–giving the gift of warmth is tradition. I imagine it started years ago, when my grandma use to make her wee granddaughters flannel nightgowns. True story, those few times I tied my hair in strips, I looked as though I’d been transported from Little House on the Prairie. Thankfully, styles have changed; but the sentiment remains–after all, there’s nothing like wrapping up those you love in something warm and toasty.

And a little something to sweeten your days . . .

Because a stocking empty of sweets, is an empty stocking indeed. I’m a chocolate lover, through and through {can you say marshmallow caramel Santas?!}; still, there’s something about Brach’s Christmas Peppermint Nougats that warm the cockles of my heart. Maybe it’s their invigorating peppermint flavor; maybe it’s the fact they’re only available this time of year. Or it may simply be the fact they beckon us to a simpler time. Whatever the reason, they’re a whole lot of Christmas in one little bite.

It just goes to show you, while the newest gadgets are quite fantastical, the little things may truly be the best gifts of all!

Each year, nearing Thanksgiving, a strange phenomenon takes place. Mainly, Santa’s elves take up residence in my home office. I don’t know precisely when it happens, or how, but suddenly and without warning, gifts appear where once was the floor. These gifts are lined up, in neat little rows, according to the names of certain Swedes.

Elves are nothing if not efficient.

Still, every now and again, you’ll happen upon a stray . . .

It might be a toothbrush or a bar of soap, a coloring book or Matchbox car. But whether useful or fun, it’s small enough to fit in a shoebox–a shoebox that is packed with care, covered with prayer, and sent by plane, train, boat, or burro, to a child who would otherwise find no gift under the tree.

Now, I know what you’re thinking–elves have all the fun! From what I understand, it’s not far from the truth. However, this is one instance where you can join the festivities–but you must hurry. Next week {November 21-27} is collection week. 

So get the lowdown on Samaritan’s Purse and Operation Christmas child, then get on board. 

And lest you think you’re too cool to pack a shoebox, think again. As Bikers with Boxes proves, you just might not be cool enough . . . 

AIDS. We still don’t like to talk about it much, do we?  But I’ve seen a friend hold the orphan of a woman who died of AIDS in Africa … I’ve seen the face of a small child with AIDS in India … I’ve experienced the death of a great uncle to AIDS in California. All ages, all backgrounds, the whole world over–in one way or another, it touches us all.

We must find a cure.

Our friend Maddy, over at the Maddy Chronicles, is doing her part.  She’ll be taking part in the AIDS Walk New York, Friday, May 15th.  Let’s join her in spirit. We have only to visit her fundraising page and give what we can–dollars add up, don’t you know! Then take a stand and spread the word …