Stocking Swap

Ooooo! I'm so excited to tell y'all about a little love I received in the mail yesterday. I participated in a stocking swap sponsored by sweet Janera at My Garden Hat. I was paired with Kristie at Insomniac Scrapbook Theater. And, man! Did she make me smile!

I got home late after shopping with Katie, and was supposed to be getting dressed and leaving to go meet friends. But I couldn't stand having mail that was unopened (I love mail), so I HAD to check out Kristie's package right then and there. You can see the chaos I created in my rush to see my surprises.

I opened the package to find all kinds of goodies. First off, she HANDMADE the stocking she sent for the swap. It is so darn cute! And I can't believe it's handmade.

She included some cookies for Santa. Aren't these cute? I'll add them to my Christmas tree every year and remember Kristie.

And this candy cane ornament? Also handmade! I love the story behind it about the legend of the candy cane, and I will be hanging it every Christmas too.

Kristie has her own Etsy shop, and I was floored that she sent me a gift certificate so I can shop there. Woo hoo! I hit the jackpot! Go poke around her shop. Her jewelry is on sale for the holidays, and there are some gorgeous pieces that are very affordable.

Now I'm torn between which of the last two gifts was my favorite. I think first I'll show you the beautiful earrings Kristie made. She knows my favorite color is red, so she made me sterling silver earrings with little red beads. I think they're actually ruby beads. So pretty! I immediately put them in my ears to match my Christmas green sweater.

Lastly, Kristie sent a tag photo album. I've seen these but never made one, and I am SO excited to have one for myself! All I have to do is add my own photos and it's ready to go. I absolutely love this.

Thank you, dear Kristie, for such a fun swap. I feel like I came out the winner! Merry Christmas to you and your family, and thanks for brightening my season!