The Christmas Stocking

I am gathering goodies for Christmas Stockings.  As far as presents go, the Christmas stocking is my favorite part.  Over the years, I have made a rather large stocking (quilted of course) for each family member, decorated with holiday florals, ribbons, bells, and other glitz.  Now I get to stuff them.  And believe me, it takes a lot to fill these babies!

Right now,  nametags are laid out on my craft room floor, along with the stocking stuffers that I have so far, arranged below each name.  This way I can see who has enough, and who I still need to buy for.

Stocking stuffers can be anything.  Inexpensive items from the dollar store like cosmetics, gag gifts and children's toys.  More costly ones like gift cards for a local bookstore, or craft store, or small tools for the guys from Home Depot.  There are doll clothes for the little girls, and makeup for the older ones.  The babies get soft stuffed animals, and toys that make noise.  Food goes in too  - sausage, cheese, Jalapeno chips, fancy chocolates, and peanuts. Really, anything small enough to fit ... goes in.

Then I carefully arrange which items peek out of the top of each stocking, to make it look the most appealing. Once all the gifts are in, I fill up any empty spaces with fruit, candy, and other snacks.

I'm not sure why I like the stocking part so much.  I guess because the process is just plain fun.  It is so mysterious to dip your hand down into that seemingly bottomless leg, wondering what will come out next, and when will you ever get to that last little goodie tucked into the tippy tippy toe.

I hope you all are enjoying your holiday preparations!