tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71097578693516037582011-11-21T21:09:51.497-08:00Your one-stop blog for a stocking-stuffer-a-day, featuring creative, fun, and (mostly) inexpensive stocking stuffer and small gift ideas. And remember, stocking stuffers aren't just for Christmas anymore!Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048079879080286675noreply@blogger.comBlogger6811100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-40509822764169452132011-01-02T18:15:00.000-08:002011-01-02T18:29:44.608-08:00

Santa's Stocking Stuffer Helper is taking a break, but will be back for next season! In the meantime, I hope everyone has a wonderful, happy, healthy New Year!

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-60768001643175430722010-12-16T15:30:00.000-08:002010-12-16T15:30:00.893-08:00

It's been far too long since I posted about any of the lovely handmade items available on Etsy, but now I can remedy that situation. Heidi of the CambriRae etsy shop has generally offered my blog readers a 20% off coupon (code "20off") which can be used on her lovely silver plate plant markers, Christmas ornaments, and page clips.Although you should look through all of her beautiful offerings, I

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-57798878226720288552010-12-15T19:30:00.000-08:002010-12-16T07:46:19.001-08:00

Anyone on your stocking-to-be-stuffed list like fortunes and fortune cookies? If so, they might get a kick out of these Fortune Gumballs. The "set" comes with seven boxes labeled Love, Finances, Career, Future, Health, Travel, and Mystery, and each box contains two gumballs and a fortune. The overall package is 4 1/2 inches long by 2 inches tall -- perfect for stocking stuffers!What: Fortune

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-77752372567178341422010-12-14T07:00:00.000-08:002010-12-16T07:38:17.971-08:00

I found this game at Barnes & Noble, and the only reason I didn't buy it for some nieces and nephews this year is because I'd already done their shopping. But next year I'm giving this to at least one set of relatives with kids -- especially because they're Canadian and I think they'll find it pretty darn funny, not to mention fun! The object of the game is to keep the moose out of your house and

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-25248460755460365252010-12-13T07:00:00.000-08:002010-12-15T10:29:09.373-08:00

I admit that this stocking stuffer idea is inspired more by nostalgia than anything else. I used to love Cocoa Puffs when I was a kid (and Cocoa Pebbles perhaps even more). I used to eat bowl after bowl of these cereals along with a glass of Welch's grape juice. It's a miracle I didn't go into sugar shock!In any case, though, here's a way to enjoy the memory without the sugar -- Cocoa Puffs

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-40405515598858296542010-12-12T15:30:00.000-08:002010-12-15T06:37:50.313-08:00

Looking for a sweet treat other than candy for stockings? Craisins are still "new" enough to be a little bit of a novelty, but common enough that you can find them in any grocery store at a reasonable price. They do have sugar added to them, so this won't work for everyone -- and be sure to read the ingredients if you want to make sure it's cane sugar and not high-fructose corn syrup. But even if

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-250718067192886832010-12-11T14:30:00.000-08:002010-12-14T06:39:36.398-08:00

Not long ago, I posted about a cupcake pop mold as a possible stocking stuffer; today I have Yumbot Cupcake Molds from (who else?) ThinkGeek! For $17.99 you get a set of four robot-shaped silicon cupcake molds into which you pour the batter directly for baking and then decorating. I think they're adorable, and if you split them up among recipients they're not too expensive.Of course, it's

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-27316674167843631712010-12-10T19:30:00.000-08:002010-12-13T06:40:26.475-08:00

I'm old enough to remember Magic 8 Balls when they were new. Here's an updated version in the form of a 20-sided gaming dice (well, technically it's a "die"). If ThinkGeek's product information is to believe -- and you never can tell with them, because they tend to be a bit tongue-in-cheek -- possible answers to your gaming questions include "+5 CHA, you handsome devil!", "Yes (if 3rd Edition)"

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-79488117267080697692010-12-09T22:15:00.000-08:002010-12-12T15:50:07.548-08:00

As a teenager, I loved bright and colorful Swatch watches, but I think I would have really loved this -- a "draw your own design" watch! The plain white watch can be drawn on with pens or markers, to make any design that suits the wearer. Unfortunately the description doesn't give the measurements of the watch face or the length of the band, which to me is important because I have tiny wrists

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-18299031289150230022010-12-08T21:30:00.000-08:002010-12-09T08:25:17.816-08:00

OK, this is temporarily out of stock at ThinkGeek BUT it's due back in stock by December 13, and it's too cute not to post about!So.... Got Facebook? Or, more importantly, got a teen or college student who's on Facebook? He/she might love this set of like/dislike stamps! The set includes both stamps, which each measure 3 by 1.25 by 2.5 inches. And they're self-inking, always a plus.And hey, why

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-79821640084144450502010-12-07T21:30:00.000-08:002010-12-08T07:02:16.070-08:00

This "Spot It" game is the perfect size for a stocking stuffer! It comes in a 3.5 inch diameter, 1 inch high circular tin, and contains 55 cards with 8 symbols each. There are 4 different versions of the game, all of which incorporate matching symbols the most quickly. The product description says it's for 2 to 8 players, ages 7 and up. The compact size means it would make a good take-along game,

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-56335495332520312492010-12-06T20:30:00.000-08:002010-12-07T13:11:28.784-08:00

Oriental Trading Company sure gets creative with its rubber duckies! They have tons of holiday-themed ones, including a nativity set, a traditional Christmas toy set, a Nutcracker set.... But the ones that caught my attention were these adorable penguin rubber ducks!At $5.99 per dozen, they're certainly affordable, as long as you have several recipients. Actually, since you almost always have to

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-85740060395657836582010-12-05T19:30:00.000-08:002010-12-06T12:40:12.868-08:00

This arrived last week from ThinkGeek.com, and I think it's my favorite thing that I'll be putting in my husband's stocking this year. For the uber-Trek-geek in your life: Star Trek outlet and light switch plate covers! I got my husband the outlet plate, which I see is now temporarily out of stock, but they also have light switch and slider light switch covers. The outlet cover was $12.99,

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-52111959400673057552010-12-04T19:30:00.000-08:002010-12-05T19:41:01.714-08:00

What's with all the ninja stuff out there these days?! In the past I've listed ninja star coat hooks, ninja star push pins, a ninja toothbrush sanitizer, and ninja-bread men cookie cutters. They're almost as ubiquitous as zombies and vampires! For today, I found these adorable ninja salt and pepper shakers online at The Afternoon. I normally don't "do" cutesy salt and pepper shakers, but I do

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-48189263727248813092010-12-03T20:30:00.000-08:002010-12-05T11:37:52.160-08:00

Although I don't bake -- trust me, I'm really bad at it! -- I do like cooking, and I've been gradually trying to make more and more things from scratch. I love the idea of using fresh herbs to enhance flavor, but I admit it does take time and it's a mess to chop up a lot of parsley into itsy-bitsy pieces. So when I saw this herb mill at a Williams Sonoma store I instantly coveted it. The first

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-92080228452533115722010-12-01T21:00:00.000-08:002010-12-02T10:32:15.293-08:00

One of the many blogs I follow is Bakerella, whose creativity and talent amazes me. If you're one of the few people out there who don't know who she is, she's the one who makes all those amazing cake pops, or little decorative (and edible) cakes on a stick. She has her first book out, Cake Pops: Tips, Tricks, and Recipes for More Than 40 Irresistible Mini Treats, and she's been on a whirlwind

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-62170144893282589272010-11-30T22:30:00.000-08:002010-12-01T08:57:49.259-08:00

Check out these cute clip-on animal flashlights! They can be attached to keys, purses, backpacks and more, and contain a bright LED flashlight inside the animal's mouth. The choices include a T-rex, a green lizard, a blue lizard, a panda, a red frog, and a toucan. Personally I like the T-rex, with his oversize head and his stubby little legs. The flashlights measure about 3.5 inches at their

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-26737612869313116932010-11-29T07:30:00.000-08:002010-11-30T12:19:25.602-08:00

I've had these pewter wall pegs bookmarked forever, so when I went back to the link I was happy to see they're on sale for $14.99, down from the original $22.00! (I also note, though, that they've been discontinued -- so once they're gone they're gone.) Uncommon Goods often has stuff priced a little higher than I would like, but at the same time their merchandise always looks to be of very high

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-79159326555258186002010-11-28T20:30:00.000-08:002010-11-29T21:03:28.098-08:00

I take some very expensive prescription migraine medicine (I'm blessed to have good prescription benefits through my employer), but I have to admit, sometimes the least fancy remedies work wonders, such as a good old ice bag on the back of the neck. My ice bag is a pretty boring affair, but the Container Store has these designer "retro" ice bags which might make a cute and useful stocking

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-67006719571672837062010-11-27T19:30:00.000-08:002010-11-30T12:19:56.847-08:00

Williams Sonoma has been rockin' the Star Wars stuff lately! Sandwich molds, cookie cutters, pancake molds, and now this awesome Darth Vader spatula. It seems a strange combination of interests, but one of my best friends is totally into Star Wars/sci-fi and she loves to bake!Details: flexible nylon-silicone head that won't scratch nonstick pans; stainless steel handle; and (most importantly!)

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-29532064727570729942010-11-26T20:00:00.000-08:002010-11-29T06:55:24.901-08:00

First things first: this is way too expensive for a stocking stuffer, unless you're rich. But oh! I love this little pin -- and I'm not even a knitter. (I will learn someday, I will!) It does bother me that the product description doesn't indicate the actual size of the pin, but it's exquisite regardless, and the perfect gift for a knitter. The description says that each pin in handcrafted, and

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-66233118583294135332010-11-25T07:00:00.000-08:002010-11-25T07:00:08.405-08:00

Almost every Sunday, my husband and I go to Panera for lunch. I drink iced tea (unsweetened!) and he drinks hot tea. The hot tea is always very hot, so he uses those cardboard sleeves so he can hold the cup comfortably. Now, we do always recycle the cardboard sleeves, but wouldn't it make more sense to use a re-usable one and save some trees?Enter Handisleeves and Dandisleeves from the Container

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-42327935676944067762010-11-24T06:30:00.000-08:002010-11-24T06:30:00.655-08:00

About two years ago, I posted a "luxury stocking stuffer" -- a spiffy Tank Robot Clock that was wonderful but that cost $45. Well, here is Tank Robot's baby sibling -- a Tank Robot Keychain Watch for $14.99. The clock came in red or black, but the keychain watch version comes in ivory, teal, or red. (I see right now that the Perpetual Kid website has only ivory in stock, but you can keep an eye

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-59157896411858308602010-11-23T06:30:00.000-08:002010-11-23T06:42:12.433-08:00

I love Eric Carle illustrations -- in fact, I've been to the Eric Carle Museum in Amherst, Massachusetts -- so this set of animal lacing cards caught my eye. The box has 10 cards measuring 6.5 by 5.25 inches and 10 brightly colored laces to attract little ones' eyes. And at the same time, of course, lacing helps children develop all kinds of skills, including sequencing, dexterity, coordination

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-71251656859780687482010-11-21T20:30:00.000-08:002010-11-22T14:24:10.868-08:00

These are among the cutest novelty bandages I've seen: little ambulances and emergency response vehicles with a decidedly Japanese flavor. There are 24 latex-free bandages in assorted sizes, packaged in a tin that measures 2 5/8 inches wide by 3 5/8 inches high.This would also make the cute centerpiece of a little homemade first aid kid that you can put together for a college student's dorm

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-60433081825409207692010-11-20T22:30:00.000-08:002010-11-22T07:34:36.565-08:00

If you have a budding writer among your family, here's a fun stocking stuffer: "story cubes," which are essentially dice with pictures instead of numbers. According to the product description, the nine cubes with their 54 total images have more than 10 million possible combinations! I also think that in addition to writer-types, younger children might find these fun just in telling stories to

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-15238024950404750722010-11-18T07:00:00.000-08:002010-11-18T09:08:04.764-08:00

A stocking stuffer for boys: a set of 10 medieval weapon push pins, featuring a sabre, a single-handed sword, a broadsword, a katana, and an axe (not that I know the difference between any of these things!). This would be fun for any boy into knights or medieval history or even Lord of the Rings. The set is a little pricey since it essentially comes out to a dollar a pin, but you have to admit

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-5510027850176630132010-11-17T07:00:00.000-08:002010-11-17T11:46:25.878-08:00

These Thanksgiving Dinner Gumballs would make a cute gift for kids, or for college students who are too far away to make it home for Thanksgiving dinner! There are three flavors: Turkey, Cranberry Sauce, and Pumpkin Pie. I think they would certainly taste.... interesting! But I probably should not indulge myself -- I can't stand the buttered popcorn flavor of Jelly Belly, because the taste is

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-46848599581944239512010-11-15T22:30:00.000-08:002011-07-28T06:06:38.290-07:00

I didn't intend to post about another luxury stocking stuffer so soon, but this little dancer has captured my heart! As many of you will recognize, this pin is a replica of the famous Little Fourteen-Year-Old Dancer, more commonly known as just Little Dancer. The sculpture was originally made of bronze and tulle, while this 1.25 inch high by .75 inch wide pin is made of antiqued bronze finish.One

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-66291458063386509722010-11-14T21:30:00.000-08:002010-11-15T09:06:11.498-08:00

I can't speak for anyone else, but I'm the type who actually likes kitchen gadgets in my Christmas stocking (a fact which my husband has picked up on!). Here's one I wouldn't mind finding in my stocking: a julienne peeler. I have it in mind for carrots*, but I do note that one of the customer reviews mentions this as a better alternative for grating hard Parmesan cheese!(*I make a skillet

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-52879531267637344062010-11-13T22:15:00.000-08:002010-11-14T12:12:04.807-08:00

At this price, this is definitely not your everyday stocking stuffer, but it did catch my eye, and I haven't listed a "luxury" stocking stuffer in a while. What drew me to this Cosmic Cat pendant is that I'm into cats (duh!) and I'm also into the stars, both fictionally via reading so much science fiction, and with my interest in the space program. In any case, the Pyramid Collection catalog

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-88620923540668352522010-11-12T22:00:00.000-08:002010-11-13T12:27:59.077-08:00

Here's a fun stocking stuffer that makes a great parent-and-child activity for later on: a Build-Your-Own-Kaleidoscope Kit. This kit lets you assemble the included plastic lenses, mirrored strips, and cardboard tubes to showcase the colored beads, and you can add your own little decorative bits and trinkets as well. I can also envision drawing on the outside tube to personalize the

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-2555534374614387002010-11-11T07:30:00.000-08:002010-11-11T09:02:54.697-08:00

Check out this cute "Chewdriver" Utensil Set, featuring a fork, spoon, and knife top, each of which can attach to the screwdriver handle! I admit this certainly isn't an inexpensive stocking stuffer, but at the same time I think it is so much harder to find good stocking stuffers for boys!(And my usual caveat stands -- I was a such a tomboy growing up, that I would have loved this. So don't

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-20963471553485591132010-11-10T07:00:00.000-08:002010-11-10T07:00:11.232-08:00

In keeping with yesterday's small, cute art and school supply type stocking stuffer, here is another cutie from the Library Foundation of Los Angeles: a mushroom pencil sharpener and eraser in one. They're two inches tall and come in several colors, although you unfortunately don't get to choose the color. Still, most kids won't mind which color they get, since they're all adorable.What: Mushroom

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-66728583161089306172010-11-09T06:30:00.000-08:002010-11-09T07:25:42.219-08:00

I know colored pencils are colored pencils, and you can surely find a set cheaper if not so elegantly packaged. But it's the lovely packaging that would make this set of mini colored pencils such a perfect stocking stuffer. The 12 pencils are only 2 inches tall, so this little set will fit almost anywhere.I found these in the Library Foundation of Los Angeles store. There's a good bet you could

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-60757336338390483512010-11-08T11:00:00.000-08:002010-11-08T11:00:04.663-08:00

This is a stocking stuffer that is too large as is to put in a stocking, but which can be easily repackaged or even split among several recipients to keep down the cost. The overall pack of these "body double magnets" measures 6.5 inches wide by 10 inches high, but the individual magnets are only 2.5 inches high. Splitting them among recipients lowers your cost-per-stocking-stuffer quite a bit!So

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-14009540645726316012010-11-05T23:30:00.000-07:002010-11-08T08:09:18.103-08:00

Here's an elegant food stocking stuffer that's so simple even I could do it myself! These marshmallows-on-a-stick are coated in chocolate and then dipped in crushed peppermint, making them perfect to swirl in a cup of hot chocolate. And even if you're not handy in the kitchen, the price of these isn't too outrageous when you consider that you have four individually wrapped marshmallow pops to a

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-27606654706046263792010-11-04T21:30:00.000-07:002010-11-05T06:53:55.794-07:00

When I was in high school and college, I was a bookworm who was almost completely antisocial. I'm still a bookworm, but now I love socializing, and especially throwing parties. My husband and I give huge New Year's Eve parties that are themed with optional costumes. Some of our themes have included a "Don't Worry Be Happy" beach party; a supervillains and superheroes party; an aliens party;

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-53599748071113044392010-11-03T07:00:00.000-07:002010-11-03T08:10:40.940-07:00

Yesterday I received a Solutions catalog in the mail, and they always have lots of cute stuff for the holidays. I was struck by this sock monkey wine cozy -- it seems sock monkeys are everywhere these days!Anyway, this little guy would be fun as a hostess gift when you're going to a Christmas party -- he'll certainly stand out from all the Christmas-themed wine bags and boxes!What: Sock Monkey

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-87708435748596205972010-11-02T06:30:00.000-07:002010-11-02T06:51:31.645-07:00

It's the Ninjabread Men! These little cookie cutters put a new twist on an old classic -- perhaps inspired by the Gingerbread Man of the Shrek movies?In any case, these would be great stocking stuffer for any mom whose kids take karate, and I understand it's more and more popular these days. They would also be great for said kids if they also enjoy baking or would like to take a treat to their

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-9546573632914327692010-11-01T07:00:00.000-07:002010-11-01T07:18:19.905-07:00

I tend to think of November 1st as the first real day of the "season." Halloween is over (we had 130 trick-or-treaters last night!) and it's time to begin holiday preparation in earnest, especially because my husband's family is in Canada, which means shipping a lot of gifts internationally. So it's time to get serious!Here to start off the season with a stocking stuffer: Jelly Belly's "sugar

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-25134615669843684482010-10-28T06:30:00.000-07:002010-10-28T06:49:16.184-07:00

Any Glee fans out there? I caught the Glee Rocky Horror show on Tuesday night, and even though I'm not that well versed in Rocky Horror, I loved this episode. In fact, that's one thing I like about Glee; it brings music to me that I might not listen to otherwise, and often breathes new life into it. (And I loved that Barry Bostwick and Meatloaf had cameos!)And I know technically Rocky Horror

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-67711811322574544332010-10-27T07:00:00.000-07:002011-06-13T08:04:25.600-07:00

This set of 21 skull swizzle sticks is certain apropos of the season! They are 7.25 inches tall and feature hand-painted resin skills atop clear sticks. The only drawback is that they must be hand-washed, but on the other hand it certainly wouldn't take long to wash a handful of these in one go.I have a friend who collects skull-themed things year round, so I always think of her when I see

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-5713908054004331682010-10-26T07:00:00.000-07:002010-10-26T07:50:18.711-07:00

Halloween is upon us, and as usual I am caught out without a costume! I don't know why it is that I manage to get organized early for Christmas, but Halloween catches me off-guard every year.In any case, here is a fun Halloween-themed stocking stuffer (although I suspect that any day now we're going to start hearing a slogan such as "Zombies... They're not just for Halloween anymore!" And it's

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-62777824250843067432010-10-25T07:30:00.000-07:002010-10-25T11:56:59.544-07:00

Wow, where did the last week go? I had planned to post every day, but I am teaching a class this semester for the first time, and it swallowed my life? It was only an 8-week course and last week was the last week (!), so I was dealing with grading and anxious students on top of my usual full-time job.In any case, today I'm back with a stocking stuffer/small gift that looks good enough to eat,

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-86492213532399349632010-10-18T21:30:00.000-07:002010-10-19T07:55:10.836-07:00

Here's a new twist on the old shaped memo pads: instead of being flat pads shaped like an apple or an orange, each page of these 3-dimensional pads constitutes a "slice" of the fruit itself. The color-coordinated paper clip helps mark your place if needed. There are 150 pages in each pad. In addition to being appropriate for an office gift, these pads would be great for a teacher, a little girl,

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-15511170410839274172010-10-17T19:30:00.000-07:002010-10-18T09:02:19.493-07:00

So did you watch football today? Or was it on the in the background as someone else in your household watched it? I'm a casual football fan myself, but I know how fanatic a lot of fans can be! If you have a football fan in your life, here's a possible stocking stuffer: a "Warning - I'd Rather Be Playing Football" desk sign that measures 5 by 3 inches. And on the flip side: "Safe to Enter - Gone

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-58765733129364171812010-10-16T19:00:00.000-07:002010-10-16T20:07:23.563-07:00

I truly believe there's a website for everything, because when I did a Google search on scrunchies, Scrunchies.com was the first hit! And because it's October, I immediately looked to see if they had a Halloween category, and of course they did. They have seven Halloween designs listed: Little Miss Spider in orange, green, or purple; Creature Peepers (eyes); Hairy Potter 2 (wizard stars and

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-5745785448227810592010-10-15T23:00:00.000-07:002010-10-16T10:37:57.613-07:00

I would be the first to say that $13 for 3 chocolates, no matter how big and luscious, is a lot, but I admit I am tempted by the clever skull shapes, and intrigued by the three decadent flavors represented. The product description notes that the gift box has one each of these varieties:Tequila Caramel Skull (Corzo silver tequila + Fleur de Sel sea salt + 70% cacao dark chocolate)Red Fire Caramel

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-63494056755669749852010-10-14T13:30:00.000-07:002010-10-14T13:30:00.374-07:00

Aren't these tiny elephant earrings just precious? I love the simplicity of the design. While I personally would prefer silver to gold-tone, that's not enough to keep me from wanting these for myself. They measure only 1/4 inch! I think little girls would love to find these in their stockings.What: Elephant EarringsWhere: FredFlare.comHow much (as of today's post): $10 (plus shipping)

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-83037318697986568312010-10-13T23:15:00.000-07:002010-10-14T07:43:40.763-07:00

The Fred Flare website calls this the "bonehead folding cone," but I maintain that it's actually a T-Rex folding comb. And if you have trouble getting your under-ten-years-old boy (or tomboy, for that matter) to remember to comb his hair once in a while, maybe this will do the trick! The comb is plastic, of course, and measures approximately 3.75 by 4.25 inches when closed. What: T-Rex ("

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-44319145659472907932010-10-12T19:00:00.000-07:002010-10-12T19:11:06.370-07:00

If your kitchen counter is as cluttered as mine is, you would appreciate this Knik Foldable Trivet as a stocking stuffer as much as I would! It's made from stainless steel, silicone, and heat resistant plastic; when folded for storing it's only 4.5 inches long, but when extended for use it has a diameter of 8.7 inches. Plus I just like that it looks so sleek! You can't see it in this image,

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-49586192534892342052010-10-11T19:00:00.000-07:002010-10-11T19:36:21.360-07:00

Is it me, or does this burger coin purse look incredibly Japanese? They certainly know how to anthropomorphize anything and make it cute! According to the product description, this coin purse is made of shaped canvas with PVC appliques and embroidery, with a zipper closure and a contrast lining; zipper closure. It measures 4.5 inches wide by 4 inches high. I think it would make an adorable

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-1110031154775967272010-10-10T11:00:00.000-07:002010-10-10T11:13:43.033-07:00

This mummy jewelry box will delight little girls who love Halloween. I also have an adult friend who's very into bats, skeletons, and mummies year round. In any case, it's a bit of fun Halloween whimsy. The jewelry box is 10 3/4 long by 4 1/2" wide (actually a little bigger than I would have guessed from the photo). Oddly, the product desciprtion doesn't say what it's made of, so I'm guessing

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-51507614658549441442010-10-09T13:15:00.000-07:002010-10-09T13:37:21.303-07:00

Just in time for the season that stretches from Halloween to Christmas, this Nightmare Before Christmas Yahtzee game, complete with a Jack Skellington dice cup! It's funny about this movie; it first came out in 1993, or 17 years ago, yet every year these is more and more new merchandise for it. I guess it has quite the cult following!I should note that it might be a tight squeeze for a stocking

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-12162391241633626672010-10-08T11:30:00.000-07:002010-10-08T12:02:44.036-07:00

I went through an M.C. Escher phase in high school, when I was convinced he was the world's most brilliant artist. I even tried recreating some of his work in pencil, with limited success.... Seeing this Escher mirror puzzle from Vat19 brought back those memories, and I think it would make a nice stocking stuffer (assuming a generous-sized stocking) for a teen or a college student who likes

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-52605540445443741522010-10-07T07:00:00.000-07:002010-10-07T13:06:58.044-07:00

Look at these lovely mint boxes featuring Pride and Prejudice! I almost had a heart attack when I saw the $14.95 price tag for a box of mints, but then I realized that the boxes are laquered and plastic (I'm not quite sure how that works together) and are meant to be kept. The two choices are a box featuring a book cover image from Pride and Prejudice and a box with Mr. Bingley telling Darcy, "

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-76169143873929518662010-10-06T20:00:00.000-07:002010-10-06T20:19:28.667-07:00

Now if this doesn't say "autumn" to you, I don't know what will! Godiva has put together a little bag of individually wrapped "caramel apple gems". There are 18 pieces in the bag, for a total of 6.5 ounces. At $10, that would be about 55 cents apiece -- but hey, it is Godiva! I'm really not a chocoholic, but I have to admit even I find this tempting.What: Godiva Caramel Apple GemsWhere:

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-7125647742980479762010-10-05T06:30:00.000-07:002010-10-05T06:53:24.969-07:00

I've always liked the Japanese lucky cat, so I find these sponges to be a cute way to brighten up the kitchen. The sponges measure 5.5 by 3 inches, and expand when wet to 3/4 inch thick. They're biodegradable and dishwasher safe, and because they come in a three-pack, they make a reasonably priced stocking stuffer or small gift if you split them up among a couple of cat lovers. They even come

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-32314101296273525322010-10-04T07:00:00.000-07:002010-10-04T10:52:54.307-07:00

I've never been a fan of canned food for cats and dogs -- I'm not crazy about the way it smells -- but recently our vet recommended we add wet food to one of our cat's diets as he seemed like he might not be getting enough water. And I have been giving Pixel only a half-can at a time, so these covers might be just the thing for my own stocking this year! In any case, if you are looking for

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-30856005290286841072010-10-01T00:30:00.000-07:002010-10-01T00:30:01.904-07:00

Boy, life does keep getting in the way of this blog! But this is a happy announcement. About a week ago my husband and I trapped a stray kitten living out of a dumpster in a parking lot. We cannot keep her as we already have more cats than we should. So tomorrow I am flying from Houston to Newark to give the kitten to a friend of mine who lost his cat of 17 years just a few weeks ago. I

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-71272508782292071812010-09-30T06:30:00.000-07:002010-09-30T07:16:29.719-07:00

I remember loving school supplies as a child, especially brand new school supplies at the start of the school year, like a pencil box to keep in the desk, and new crayons, and a cute little stapler.... And what child doesn't like special decorated pencils, or pencils with cute little toppers? If this is your child, here's an inexpensive stocking stuffer: Zoo Mania Pencil Toppers. They come in

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-64130564276856777092010-09-29T06:30:00.000-07:002010-09-29T07:07:37.630-07:00

Aren't these floppy disk sticky notes incredibly realistic? No matter how long I look at the photo, I keep thinking that they must be real disks. That's why I also have to show the photo of the "disk" with the writing on it -- it's the only way to convince my eyes.These are a little pricey for what they are, but the price is for a 3-pack, which means you could break them up for three stocking

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-86547551552459994192010-09-28T06:30:00.000-07:002010-09-28T07:47:31.940-07:00

We had the slightest hint of cool weather yesterday (it takes until November or late to get comfortable in Houston, sigh...), and our neighbors put out their Halloween decorations, so I'm in the autumn/Halloween frame of mind. Now, if I could ever remember to wear jewelry, I'd be tempted to get this for myself. As it is, I'd better leave it for others -- the ones who remember to wear green on

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-18758243283593167672010-09-27T06:30:00.000-07:002010-09-27T07:25:04.332-07:00

I know it's not quite October yet, but I've found that Halloween merchandise often tends to sell out, since merchants don't necessarily stock large quantities. So I wanted to mention these Halloween Nesting Dolls from the Spoon Sisters website a little early. I think this is a great take on a classic! This set is made of plastic, and the six dolls measure from 4 1/2 inches high down to 1 1/4

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-4151980552557896012010-09-24T22:00:00.000-07:002010-09-25T08:37:09.088-07:00

I'm pretty sure the folks over at ThinkGeek have figured out that if they make something Star Trek that's even just marginally cool, we science fiction geeks will snap it right up! Last year we bought the Star Trek Enterprise Bottle Opener for a number of our friends and it was a huge hit. This year we have the Star Trek Enterprise Pizza Cutter as an option!At $24.99, this isn't cheap, so it

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-59169264231087139572010-09-23T15:30:00.000-07:002010-09-23T20:07:53.717-07:00

Here's a cute stocking stuffer for the little ones: Splashimals Floating Cards. Obviously they're waterproof, making them just right for bathtime. But they're also pretty clever in an of themselves. There are 15 animals split into two cards each, and their names as well as their pictures are split right down the middle. The pictures are set up so you can mix and match the cards and create

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-88769955075828680662010-09-22T06:30:00.000-07:002010-09-22T06:30:00.369-07:00

I'm not sure what's going on, but I seem to be in girly-girl mode just now, which is odd considering I'm usually something of a tomboy. But I do know many women who would love to get this as a stocking stuffer: a realistic-looking lipstick pen. It's only 4 inches long so a great size for a purse, and the $5.00 is for a set of two, making it a pretty affordable stocking stuffer (as long as

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-9636564997903776222010-09-21T06:30:00.000-07:002010-09-21T06:30:00.701-07:00

Matryoshka dolls, also known as Russian nesting dolls, dress up what would otherwise be plain, ordinary packing tape. While I can see using this for actual packages, the first thing I thought of when I saw it was "crafting," since I've been reading more and more blogs lately about clever crafting ideas. So I think this would be a cute stocking stuffer for a crafter, or for someone who likes

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-35197582273940254862010-09-20T06:30:00.000-07:002010-09-20T10:24:50.725-07:00

I'm finally back, ready to post a stocking-stuffer-a-day from now until Christmas! Which would make it seem odd that you're looking at a picture of a pumpkin here, but I've got autumn and Halloween on the mind at the moment, and I wanted to post this cute little gift while I was thinking about it.So, on Friday evening my husband and I were driving from Houston up to Dallas and we stopped at the

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-58940171369077400862010-09-10T12:15:00.001-07:002010-09-10T12:27:42.533-07:00

A kind friend e-mailed to ask if I was OK, since I was ill when I last posted in July and I haven't posted since. That was so sweet of her! In any case, I am fine -- I just returned from that trip to some big changes at work that have taken up most of my time and energy. I'm teaching a college course for the first time and I'm nervous as anything, although I hope my students don't realize it!

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-86098749588667325662010-07-21T19:52:00.000-07:002010-07-21T19:59:14.313-07:00

Apologies for the radio silence, which I'm afraid is going to continue for the next 2 1/2 weeks or so. Long story short, on Sunday I went to bed perfectly fine, and on Monday I woke up violently ill, as in sometimes literally crawling between the bedroom and the bathroom ill. Naturally, this happened while my husband is away for several weeks. On Tuesday I roused myself long enough to call a

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-79960352669906451712010-07-18T14:00:00.000-07:002010-07-18T14:37:56.525-07:00

I'm generally in favor of anything that is fun, educational, and eco-minded, so naturally I think this Mudpuppy "N is for Nature" flashcard set would make a nice stocking stuffer. According to the product description, the set includes "26 durable, two-sided cards on a reclosable ring." The front of each card has the uppercase letter and a corresponding image from nature, while the back side has

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-43189280282900361022010-07-17T10:00:00.000-07:002010-07-17T11:03:54.433-07:00

These farm animal ice cream sandwich molds would make a great stocking stuffer for anyone with kids who likes being creative in the kitchen. The molds make ice cream sandwiches about 2 inches wide, so the molds themselves are probably just a little bigger than that. They could be put individually in the stocking, but it's possible that the entire box would fit since it's long and narrow. The

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-79378472800806110492010-07-16T17:30:00.000-07:002010-07-16T19:32:34.724-07:00

Another item that's really too expensive for a stocking stuffer, but oh! it's so cute. And it's Friday.... which I've designated for "luxury stocking stuffers." This one is a Mechanical Kitty Bank from Japan, infused with that special brand of Japanese cuteness. You put a coin on the little fish "food bowl", and the clever kitteh hiding in the box pops out and steals it. As usual, ThinkGeek

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-10378307425053518862010-07-15T06:30:00.000-07:002010-07-15T06:49:16.983-07:00

How clever is this? This 81-piece double-sided puzzle features cherry pie on one side, and a pie tin with pi carried to 400 decimal places on the other side! The puzzle is 8 inches in diameter when assembled. The only problem in terms of whether it works as a stocking stuffer is that the website doesn't give the size of the tin it comes in, but since they have other similar puzzles in small

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-67314601721204150102010-07-14T07:00:00.000-07:002010-07-14T12:25:42.792-07:00

If you know someone who loves everything Shakespeare, here's a cute food gift idea for their stockings: Shakespeare Fortune Cookies. I'm sure it goes without saying that each one features a quote from the man himself! The pint-sized red "carry out" container has six cookies and costs $5.95, and a quart-size with ten cookies is also available for $7.95.I've also listed this as a possible DIY

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-58215898855077713542010-07-13T06:45:00.000-07:002010-07-13T08:33:04.075-07:00

I admit right up front: this is too expensive for what it is. But it's so darn cute! This little yellow submarine doubles as a tea infuser. It's made of dishwasher safe, heat resistant silicone on a metal chain. The sub measures about 2.5 by 2.5 inches. I know, I know -- a tea infuser should not cost $14. But my husband is a big-time tea drinker, and a little boy at heart, and I'm

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-55563855163583003492010-07-12T06:00:00.000-07:002010-07-12T08:58:30.025-07:00

Oh dear! The weekend completely got away from me. Rather than play catch-up, I'm going to start fresh today with these Wizard of Oz magnets. And I chose them for today because I had an Oz-infused weekend! On Saturday, my husband and I went to see the touring company performance of "Wicked", which I missed last time it came through Houston. I read the book years ago and even got to meet the

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-27418680968478696592010-07-08T06:45:00.000-07:002010-07-08T07:49:24.859-07:00

Even though I don't watch Dr. Who (I watch lots of other science fiction, but I'm not a Whovian, alas), I still think this Tardis cell phone alert charm is adorable. This charm spins and lights up when you get a call, even when your cell phone is on silent mode. And it doesn't even have to be attached to your cell phone -- instead, attach it to your purse, backpack, bag, jacket.... The product

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-92122315093026351812010-07-07T07:00:00.000-07:002010-07-07T08:27:31.132-07:00

Are you the type who loves kitchen things in her stocking, or who hates them because it reminds you of work you'd rather not be doing? Personally, I love little kitchen gadgets, or even just utilitarian things such as a really good paring knife. In fact, I spent most of my Fourth of July weekend cooking, and really enjoyed it! (Not that I'm a terribly accomplished cook, but still....)In any case,

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-69302722504720171492010-07-06T07:00:00.000-07:002010-07-06T10:35:38.857-07:00

Here's a handy and inexpensive stocking stuffer for men: a floating LED keychain for use while boating and fishing. The keychain starts flashing when it comes into contact with water, and it keeps the keys from sinking (always a plus!). This is currently on sale at Solutions.com for only $2.99, but if you don't like to do mail and internet orders for something so small, sports stores and hardware

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-30695763497852397862010-07-05T19:00:00.000-07:002010-07-05T19:37:40.714-07:00

Girls -- especially those in the 'tween years and younger -- love puzzle boxes, diaries with locks, and other places to hide thoughts or treasures. For those who are also cat lovers, this puzzle box would be a lovely small gift (and can double as a stocking stuffer due to its 5 x 4 x 2 inch size). It's also nice knowing that the boxes are handmade by HSSS artisans in India. This is a nonprofit

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-1497233125057330972010-07-04T08:30:00.000-07:002010-07-04T08:39:00.788-07:00

Happy Fourth of July!This "first compass" set would make a great stocking stuffer for any child who likes to explore. The little tin contains the compass, which is mounted in a wood frame that hangs from an adjustable 28-inch cord, and a booklet with directions and some nature tips. The Chinaberry website recommends this compass for children aged 7 to 11. Let's get those kids away from the

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-85549458600182773862010-07-03T05:30:00.001-07:002010-07-04T08:29:10.453-07:00

Surely almost everyone has at least one dog lover in their lives! If you have one, you can feel good about these silicone paws as measuring spoons because the Animal Rescue Site store contributes to animal rescue efforts with each purchase made. These spoons have stainless steel handles with silicone "paws" and are dishwasher safe. The set includes one each of tablespoon, teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon,

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-6643316988535622902010-07-02T05:30:00.000-07:002010-07-04T08:30:57.523-07:00

Fridays are "luxury stocking stuffer" days -- days where I post about special items that are a little more expensive than you generally want to spend. I include them because I do think it's nice when a stocking contains at least one item that is more "gift-like", if that makes sense. And this one is too cute for words: KinderGlo Night Lights, which are available in the shape of a brontosaurus, an

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-16820494515489378112010-07-01T07:00:00.001-07:002010-07-01T07:10:13.503-07:00

I don't know who started the "Christmas in July" trend -- well, actually, I imagine Hallmark and/or some other retailers started it with their mid-summer Christmas clearance sales and ornament previews. In any case, I'm back from my virtual vacation to celebrate Christmas in July with a new stocking stuffer every day of the month!Let's start with a geeky one (my favorite kind!): App Magnets

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-43900864551986274782010-05-31T19:30:00.000-07:002010-06-01T13:01:52.403-07:00

Happy Memorial Day! I hope you are able to celebrate with your loved ones and that you all stay safe and sound.In blog news, I have decided to take a holiday of my own, for the month of June. I have written a post per day since I started this blog on November 1, 2008. I think I may have missed one or two posts in all that time, but in any case Blogger shows me as having just under 600 posts.

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-9158966924451079082010-05-30T20:30:00.000-07:002010-06-01T12:45:30.079-07:00

At six by six inches square, it might be tough to squeeze one of these into a stocking, but these are such a neat idea that I thought they would be worth listing as a possible gift idea. There "good night" books are available for many countries, cities, general areas such as America, Cape Cod, the Florida Keys, the beach, the zoo, and so on. Even if you don't see your city on the list, go ahead

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-71967401700203954862010-05-29T16:00:00.000-07:002010-05-29T16:00:02.092-07:00

How cool are these? These vegetable ink "Postcardens" can be mailed for $1.30 postage, and the recipient just has to open the card, water the base, and sprinkle the packet over the diorama. In a few days, watercress will begin to sprout, decorating the scene with lovely (and edible!) foliage! The city scene has a "greetings" message, while the botanical garden carries a "thinking of you"

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-28585210666392486922010-05-28T20:30:00.000-07:002010-05-29T11:43:12.934-07:00

Looks like you can get anything made out of "building blocks" (sorry, I call them all Legos automatically, even though I know that's not accurate) these days: utensils, USB flash drives, tie pins for men, you name it. This building block calculator is a new one to me, though. It measures 5.5 x 2.5 x 1 inches, and comes in red, green, blue, or black. From what I can see of the buttons in the

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-87990424222576956142010-05-27T06:30:00.000-07:002010-05-27T07:44:28.316-07:00

The Saving Cents Together blog put me onto this free photo magnet deal from Kodak Gallery online. The normally $3.99 photo magnet is free with coupon code FREEMAGNET -- all you have to pay is the $1 shipping. This makes a perfect stocking stuffer for the total cost of one dollar -- how often does that happen? And you can get it for anyone: spouse, child, grandparent, boyfriend or girlfriend,

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-73456742813347300442010-05-26T06:30:00.000-07:002010-05-26T06:30:00.501-07:00

This is something I had never heard of until recently -- tea hearts, or tea pressed into shapes over which you pour the boiling water. This particular tin has 24 "Antony and Cleopatra" black tea hearts, or you can choose 24 "Romeo and Juliet" green tea hearts instead. Each heart makes an 8-10 ounce serving of tea.The product description further states that "The tradition of pressing black teas

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-76500585478791622462010-05-25T06:45:00.000-07:002010-05-25T08:05:50.999-07:00

I love these pencil cups made from recycled keyboards! Keyboards get thrown away all the time -- I remember years ago when I spilled lemonade into my keyboard at work and was consumed with guilt, and the IT guys said "Don't worry about it! They only cost about $8!"Which means a zillion of them end of in the landfills.Well, here's a way to keep a few of them out, in any case. The round keyboard

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-19857800859414530402010-05-24T07:00:00.000-07:002010-05-24T09:01:40.144-07:00

I have a confession to make. I have an irrational fear of lemon zest. I'm not actually afraid of the zest itself, but I am convinced that if I ever try to take the zest off a lemon or lime, I will go down too far to the bitter part and ruin whatever recipe I'm making.Perhaps it's time to face my zesting fear. So maybe I will ask Santa for one of these palm zesters from Sur La Table in my

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-26416654725846532612010-05-23T19:00:00.000-07:002010-05-24T08:54:36.941-07:00

I admit these are a little dorky, but they're the kind of thing kids might enjoy. I've seen corncob-shaped corn holders, and dachshund-shaped corn holders, but this is the first time I've seen unicorn-shaped corn holders! The set contains 4 plastic corn holders, each measuring 2.5 inches tall. And -- more importantly -- they're dishwasher safe. ;-)What: Unicorn Corn HoldersWhere: The

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-68903060619353031752010-05-22T20:30:00.000-07:002010-05-23T15:31:39.670-07:00

The "sprinkler" hide-a-key gadget is definitely an afforadable stocking stuffer, at only $3.99 plus shipping. It's 3.5 inches high by 1.3 inches in diameter, and looks like a regular sprinkler head. Of course, it might only be useful if you happen to have built-in sprinkler's in your yard already, but you could actually still hide this pretty well in a flowerbed if you wanted. It just depends

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-43258618615906511622010-05-21T21:30:00.000-07:002010-05-23T15:17:49.235-07:00

Today's Friday "luxury" stocking stuffer is an authentic Bhutanese Coin featuring "Buddhism's eight auspicious symbols," set in sterling silver. This is so right up my alley, because it's unusual, it has symbolism, and it's set in silver instead of gold. The product description also says (and this is all new to me) that "Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked Himalayan country bordered by China and

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-56899807650490542492010-05-21T10:30:00.000-07:002010-05-21T12:53:40.885-07:00

I had no idea when I did my post yesterday that Google would be using Pac-Man for its logo today! What's more, you can play Google's Pac-Man! Just click on "insert coin" and then use your up-down-left-right arrow keys to guide the little Pac-Man. What fun!I'll be back later today with my regular post. I just couldn't resist blogging about Pac-Man!

Amy's Stocking Stuffershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09566248766751970937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7109757869351603758.post-9842939060839018282010-05-20T06:45:00.000-07:002010-05-20T08:04:13.915-07:00

Considering how sophisticated video games are these days, it's amazing that Pac-Man is still around and that there is so much Pac-Man merchandise available (I posted about Pac-Man Power Pellets and Ghost Sours back on November 11 of last year.) I guess the little yellow guy is just a classic! And here are some bandages to commemorate him. Pretty cute, aren't they?What: Pac-Man BandagesWhere:

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