Some of My Favorite Christmas Gifts & Spread The Kindness Link Up On the Edge #789

January 9, 2026 / 22 Comments

Now that the holiday chaos has settled and the children have returned to school, it is time for me to get back to regular life. No more sitting around in my pajamas, makeup free with messy hair, until lunchtime. I must resume the stay-at-home mom duties that keep me busy for 16-18 hours a day and leave me exhausted before the sun goes down.

During the holiday break, I didn’t do much. In fact, I barely left my house except for a few times for various appointments as well as a family movie outing to see Avatar: Fire and Ash, which, by the way, is my least favorite of the Avatar film franchise but still very enjoyable.

In not leaving my house, I barely got myself dressed in public-worthy attire so I definitely did not take any outfit photographs. But I wanted to share with you some of my favorite Christmas gifts. Once the weather and my motivation cooperate, I will style the wearable gifts and take proper photographs to share with you.

My husband absolutely surprised me with two very special and unexpected gifts. Surprise gifts don’t come my way often these days so it was a pretty awesome experience!

Big Blanket Premier Plush™ Wrap

In the months leading to Christmas, advertisements for this Big Blanket wrap kept popping up in my social media feeds. More evidence that our devices are listening and somehow know us all too well! I immediately visited their website and gasped a little at the prices which dashed my hopes of ever wrapping myself up in this kind of extraordinary coziness. I never even mentioned it to my husband. What I didn’t know was that he had been seeing the exact same advertisements, as if his devices knew he needed help in choosing a gift for me! And choose it, he did, in a beautiful moss green color. While I wasn’t expecting such a luxurious gift, I must admit that it was absolutely worth every single dollar spent. I have been wrapped up in it since Christmas morning and it is literally the most amazingly soft, warm coziness I have ever had the pleasure of draping over my body. If you run cold all winter long like I do, I highly recommend this splurge!

Canna Style Grandma’s Bong

My second surprise gift was Grandma’s Bong. Oh my word. I love this smoking device so much even though I haven’t even smoked from it yet! We had spotted the Grandma’s Attic collection online a few months before Christmas and I commented to my husband that I wouldn’t mind owning the entire collection one day. I currently have a little corner of my basement reserved as my smoking area. It has been accidentally centered around grandmothers with my grandmother’s 1960s sewing machine table and my husband’s grandmother’s rocking chair.

My basement is unfinished and damp and used primarily for storage so it’s currently not very welcoming or pleasant to look at it. But I have a plan in mind for our next and final home. I am going to refinish/paint the grandmothers’ furniture pieces and create a little Grandma’s Attic sort of smoking space for myself. My new bong may remain unused until then…sort of like a collector’s item more than a smoking pipe. Maybe I’ll put a flower in it and use it as a vase! I absolutely was not expecting this gift as my initial wish for the entire collection was merely stated as a pipe dream. (Ha. See what I did there?) When I opened it, I literally laughed so hard that I cried. What an awesome gift!

Idyllwind Women’s Outlaw Performance Western Boots

I have been wanting a new pair of black cowgirl boots for some time. I already have four pairs of black ones: my custom made buffalo skin boots from 25 years ago that no longer fit my fat feet, my 20 year old short black Ariat Fatbabies that have been downgraded to work boot status, my dressier black studded ones purchased seven years ago, and my black metallic floral boots also purchased seven years ago. Other than my custom made ones, I wear the other three pairs of black boots frequently even after all these years. But I was hankering for a pair of more casual black cowgirl boots when these cuties went on sale for 60% off, bringing the purchase price well below $100, which is really inexpensive for a pair of quality leather cowgirl boots, so I snagged them up. I really like the lightly distressed look, the square toe and low Stockman heel, and the super comfortable foam cushioned footbed. Most cowgirl boots take some time to break in but these pretties felt perfectly broken in from the very first wear. I have worn them a few times already but have failed to take photographs.

Idyllwind Women’s Peregrine Eagle Cardigan Sweater

After making my big boot purchases (I bought four new pairs recently and have already shared three- my new work boots, my new eel skin boots, and my new white cowgirl boots), I earned some Boot Barn Bucks towards my next purchase. So I used those rewards to get myself this super cool falcon cardigan. The online description calls it a “peregrine eagle” but no such animal exists…it is either an eagle or a peregrine falcon. But regardless of what the bird is called, the sweater is amazing! I have also worn this piece a few times already (and received compliments) but have failed to photograph it.

Idyllwind Women’s Howdy Cardigan

As I was scanning through the cardigans offered by Boot Barn, I was torn between the ivory falcon cardigan and this fun “Howdy” long cardigan. My husband preferred this sweater over the falcon one, but I went with the falcon because I think I will wear it more frequently. However, in the end, I decided I needed/wanted both so I ordered this one after the fact and received it just in time for Christmas. I am looking forward to wearing this one for an upcoming style challenge at the end of the month.

Rainbow Zen Gnome Wind Chimes

I am always adding to my front porch wind chime collection and Ralph absolutely loves picking out new wind chimes for me. This year he chose a stained glass gnome wind chime which I love because he kind of resembles Santa Claus…the perfect way to add a little Christmas to my spring and summer porch decor. I can’t wait to find his place in my wind chime porch garden!

Rainbow Zen Silk Kimono Robes

Of course, my entire family is fully aware of my kimono robe obsession so they know they can never go wrong in gifting me another one to add to my ever growing collection. Actually, I picked up the purple silk robe for myself when I was shopping for a new Grateful Dead hoodie for Ralph in one of my favorite stores, Rainbow Zen. They had about a dozen different designs in this robe and I really struggled to choose just one. I picked the purple one because it is a color that is lacking in my wardrobe. Archie chose the blue and gold one for my Christmas gift. Both are equally stunning and unlike any other robes that I own. I have worn the purple one a few times over an all black outfit but took no photographs and I will be sharing the blue and gold one next week. Aren’t they magnificent?

Rainbow Zen Mushroom Print Scarf

Rainbow Zen has so many beautiful accessories that all speak to me when I walk into that store. Their scarf collection, in particular, makes me hanker for more. But I have so many scarves already. However, that didn’t stop me from pointing out the scarf section to my husband just before Christmas. He picked out this beautiful pink mushroom print scarf that I adore and have worn a few times already but no photographs yet.

Highland Cow Gift Set

If you have been following my blog for some time, then you probably already know that my mother-in-law always chooses wonderful gifts for me. This year was no exception. There are many animals that I love but the Highland cow ranks very near the top of my “Favorite Animals” list. My mother-in-law surprised me with this adorable gift set featuring the cutest of Highland cows. I already used the little pouch for our Avatar: Fire and Ash outing. I stuffed it full of candy, slipped it into my purse, and snuck my treats into the movie theatre. And I felt no guilt about it after spending about $45 on popcorn and drinks and another $45 for tickets!

My mother-in-law also gifted me the largest of three new cutting boards. And it is a kitchen game changer, for sure. It is similar to this one but even bigger and I freaking love it! I also got a set of silicone baking mats in various shapes sizes, including this gigantic one which is also a kitchen game changer.

Some of my other gifts include a new cell phone (mine died so this was necessary), a new set of ear buds (my child lost my old set so this was also necessary), a giant bag of Reese’s pieces and other favorite candies, 6 pairs of very cozy Muk Luks socks that we found at our local hardware store, a new blender, a handmade reversible kitchen apron, new bed sheets, a new shower curtain and bath mats, new bathroom hand towels, and a super soft oversized heating pad. I think I’m good on new things for a while!

What are some of your favorite gifts that you received this holiday season?

Featured Favorites
Reader Favorite: Style Yourself Confident
Fashion Favorite: Huisvlijt
Other Favorite: Steph Creates Things
Style Yourself Confident
The Royals at Christmas
Huisvlijt
Korte Nieuwjaarswens 2026
Steph Creates Things
Crafting Chic Fabric Bowls: Stylish Storage Made Simple!

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Keeping it on the edge,

Shelbee

Cover Photo by Fujiphilm on Unsplash

I am a midlife woman, wife, and stay-at-home mother of 2 boys and 2 cats. I have a passion for helping other women feel fabulous in the midst of this crazy, beautiful life.

You May Also Like

10 on the 10th: January 2024-10 Things to Feed My Head

January 11, 2024

Songful Style | “Behind the Wall of Sleep” by The Smithereens

June 1, 2022

May Birthdays with Ada & Sunday Showcase Link Up

May 5, 2019

22 Comments

  • Di

    January 9, 2026 at 12:26 pm Reply

    Shelbee, you really did get some outstanding Christmas gifts this year! The wrap blanket looks like something I would like to stay cuddled up in until the end of January! I received the thickest, softest, fuzziest cardigan from my husband this year, which I love. I tend to run cold, too, so our families really know us! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and wishing you the best in the new year!

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      January 10, 2026 at 7:05 am Reply

      Thanks so much, Di! This wrap is really amazing. I asked for the purple one next year to wear to my son’s football games (his school colors are purple and white). It is just so incredibly soft and warm and cozy. I hope you share your new cozy cardigan. I would love to see it! Many blessings to you in the new year!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

  • Leslie Susan Clingan

    January 9, 2026 at 10:35 pm Reply

    My goodness, judging from your fabulous Christmas gifts, I would say you must have been a very good girl in 2025. Love love love the southwest flavored sweaters/cardigans and would wear both of them A LOT!! You got a great deal on the black boots. They have such pretty details that elevate them beyond just casual cowgirl boots. I need to show my boots some love. Maybe this weekend? Have seen the Highland cows everywhere but didn’t know what they were. Now I do. What a thoughtful MIL to select such special gifts for you.

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      January 10, 2026 at 7:01 am Reply

      Leslie, thank you so much! Boot Barn has so many beautiful sweaters. My wish list on their website just keeps growing and growing. LOL I don’t get to wear my boots much during the snow season though which makes me a little sad. I hope you have a blessed new year, my friend. And bring those boots out!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

  • Marsha Banks

    January 9, 2026 at 10:48 pm Reply

    Gurrrrl…you cleaned up! My kids and husband need lessons from yours! I love, love, love your kimonos and that plush wrap! I would never leave the house without wearing one of them. The boots…love that square toe. I haven’t ever tried cowgirl boots, but I don’t think I could get my Frankenfoot in one as the bones of my big toe are fused so it doesn’t bend. I fed a Hairy Coo (as they pronounce them across the pond) a bit of carrot on my wonderful Ireland/Scotland adventure. They really are gorgeous animals. It’s so funny to see them “trending.” You really did get some wonderful gifts, even the kitchen gadgets. I need several of those things, too, as mine are nigh on 50 years old (had to use those words to make you realize I am approaching my crone era). Mike wanted a list of things I wanted. I didn’t really have one, but there were a couple of necklaces at Brighton (which was then wasn’t my style) I liked. I added extra stuff to the list, and he bought the whole damn list! I did end up exchanging a couple of things. My kids bought me 10 sessions at a salt cave/spa kinda place. I haven’t had a chance to check it out yet. I’m hoping they have massages! I will link up later as my finicky laptop doesn’t like link parties…it won’t even show me the link button!

    https://marshainthemiddle.com/

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      January 10, 2026 at 6:56 am Reply

      Thanks so much, my friend! I would love to meet a Highland cow in real life but I am really allergic to cow dander. As soon as I approach a cow, my eyes get all swollen and itchy, my nose stuffs all up, and my throat starts tickling. It’s terrible. When my kids were little, they used to love the local petting farm. I had to overdose on Benadryl to survive it! But I still love all the cows even if they make sneeze! I love that Mike bought your entire wish list! I don’t think he needs any lessons. That sounds like he’s doing great with gift giving! I hope you enjoy your spa experiences. What a wonderful gift!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

  • Gail

    January 10, 2026 at 3:33 am Reply

    It was lovely to see your presents! Big fan of the Highland “coos” as they say in Scotland. Grandma’s Bong is hilarious, but also very pretty!

  • Nancy

    January 10, 2026 at 7:54 am Reply

    What a fabulous gifts, you got really spoiled! It’s the bong the thing with the Roses? I had something totally different in my head when you mentioned itTuesday. I love it, also love the blue one. And the kimono with purple is also very pretty. Great gifts!

  • Joanne

    January 10, 2026 at 2:42 pm Reply

    We bought (what looks like) that same silicone mat for Alec and I am loving it. We had an old pastry mat from Tupperware but it was falling apart. I like that this one really stays put when we’re using it since the old one used to move around on the table/countertop.

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      January 11, 2026 at 6:47 am Reply

      Oh my gosh, that is exactly the same reason I wanted a giant mat like this. I was using a huge plastic cutting board to roll out my doughs and it would never stay in place. Plus it was slightly warped so it would wobble, too. It was very annoying. But the problem is solved with this amazing mat! I bought this one on Amazon so maybe it is the same one you have!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      January 11, 2026 at 6:45 am Reply

      I am afraid to smoke out of it, Cheryl! It is so pretty I don’t want it to get all nasty with black resin. Bleck. I do admit that I am not very good at keeping my smoking utensils clean. It’s super gross and I really should do better. Maybe this bong will help me! LOL

      xoxo
      Shelbee

Leave a Reply to Di Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Shelbee on the Edge