Christmas has now come and gone, marking the end of 2021. It feels bittersweet, as I know I was lucky enough to be able to spend the day at home with family. I’m not one for big celebrations, and the day was spent eating food, cross-stitching, and just lazing around the house. We had my grandparents come over for lunch, and Christmas for us is a time where we can do nothing without guilt.
I’m also in mixed minds about publishing a haul, but I wanted to share with you what I got (and the why as well). The reason why I’m unsure about hauls is they can contribute and promote over consumerism (especially within the fashion industry). Buying items we don’t need isn’t sustainable. So, I guess with that, taking hauls with a grain of salt is always a good idea, especially if you enjoy watching/reading hauls (like me).
And with that note, here’s what I got!
WHAT I GOT FOR CHRISTMAS
Cross stitching kits
Cross stitching is something I’ve fallen in love with – a positive to come out of Covid.
It’s relaxing yet challenges the mind as well if that makes sense. I’ve found myself cross-stitching while streaming TV shows. As a result, mum has picked up on this, and as a gift from my *darling* cat, John, I received a few kits. A baby koala, some galahs, a kit with three Australian birds.
Of course, I immediately decided to start a new design from the Australian birds kit. By the time I’d taken this photo, I’d finished the Magpie and have now started the Rainbow Lorikeet.
Form Smart Swim Goggles
Okay, okay, okay… Without a doubt, this is my favourite present. I’d been sitting on these for ages (after seeing an Instagram ad), and asked mum if they’d be okay for a present.
I love swimming with all my heart, and I desperately want to get better – I’m even swimming 100km in February for the Starlight Foundation.
These goggles can show your swim set while you swim. I mean, how cool is that? I’m very excited to elevate my training and I really hope they live up to my expectations.
Matthew Reilly’s The One Impossible Labyrinth
I love the Jack West series by Matthew Reilly. In fact, I love all of his books, he’s my favourite author. I’m always excited to get a new book by him.
Australian Jojoba
I’ve never used Jojoba before, but I’ve heard good things. I got this gift from my grandma and grandpa, and I’m excited to implement it into my skincare routine (not that I have a skincare routine at the moment).
Some stocking fillers
All your typical (or maybe my family typical) stocking fillers. Some deodorant, sunscreen and Ouch. Ouch is honestly the best thing for bites and burns – it really takes the heat out of sunburn (which is why I need some sunscreen).
Towels and a terrarium
There’s something about a good towel, and being around the water I’m always in need of more towels.
These two towels feel incredibly nice and I’m looking forward to testing them out.
And plants, I love plants. Now I have a little terrarium to keep me company. I’m not sure where I’ll put it yet, but I’ll find a spot.
And a few other gifts that aren’t pictured
I also received some socks, snacks, money, and money towards already purchased presents (such as a wetsuit I bought earlier this month). I also purchased a dress (which is still coming in the mail) as a Christmas and birthday present to myself.
And there you have it, what I got for Christmas.
Over the years, I’ve grown less attached to objects/items, and more attached to memories/experiences, and as a result, I’ve noticed a shift in presents (a good shift). It’s interesting to see how my mindset has changed from purchasing/receiving gifts for the sake of Christmas to purchasing/receiving gifts with sentimental value – having a strong intention behind the object (and/or experience).
The cross stitch kits will provide me with hours of relaxation, the goggles will improve my fitness and have been on my wishlist for over 4 months, the towels are always needed (I spend summer almost living at a swimming pool), the book is more relaxation (or stress depending on how the story goes), snacks are always good and so are stocking fillers and socks, the jojoba oil will help my skin (hopefully) and the terrarium is pretty cool. All have intention behind them. And I try to give with intention too.
Now that I’ve rambled about giving gifts, I want to say that I hope you’ve enjoyed your Christmas (if you celebrate it).
I’d love to know what your favourite gift you received or gave was this year?
(Also, I’d love to know if you like the layout of this post. I’m trying to add more colour and images into my posts)
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