We’ve never really exchanged gifts around Christmas, because in the Netherlands we have our own “Sinterklaas” at the beginning of December. It’s sort of our Santa Claus, but with a different background story. It’s for children really, with the whole believing thing and without the added charm of Christmas cheer and decorations. So this year we decided to give each other presents around Christmas time.

I had been wanting to get a new perfume for so long, but it’s such a thing I, with my small budget, always end up not buying (even though I revisit the shop every once in a while). I also really wanted a natural perfume, because a) regular perfumes make me nauseous and b) I don’t want to spray chemicals on my body. These perfume samples are from For Strange Women and are 100% natural and handmade in Kansas City, Missouri. I think Winter Kitty is my favorite.

Like the perfume, I had been wanting a ring for a long time as well. More specifically, a Twinklebird ring. Christine makes the most wonderful, delicate jewelry and I’ve had my eyes on this midnight blue confetti ring for quite some time. But again, my small budget prevented me from ever clicking on that “buy” button. I was so happy when I opened this package! It fits like a charm and the deep midnight blue confetti changes color with the light.

Her packaging was really cute too, wrapped in blue paper and with the most beautiful thank you card.

I don’t have a photo of my third present, except all wrapped up in the top photo – it’s the big one! – but I did use it to “embellish” these photo’s. It’s a Wacom tablet! Such an awesome present. I’ve been playing with it a lot and even though it takes some getting used to, I think I’ll be able to do some cool stuff with this new tool. Thank you, Santa Joop!

p.s. I couldn’t resist showing you one of the presents I gave Joop:

Ron fucking Swanson.