2018 Christmas Gift Guide : Stocking Stuffers

I think stockings may be my very favourite part of all.

I love the creative element of choosing fun, inexpensive items that make Christmas morning all the more merry.

Here's a few of the things I'll be including this year -

1. I'm sure this little cutie is on every kid's wishlist this year. Ava currently has the monkey but is ALL about this perfectly pink unicorn. Fingerlings, $14.99

2. I love the packaging of these disc shaped soaps and the colours are so lovely - you almost want to eat them non? Bonus points for the slim rectangular box that would fit perfectly in my any stocking. Anthropologie, $26

3. I personally own the Luna Foreo and love this tool for getting ever last little bit of make up off at the end of the day. This less expensive, smaller version is a perfect first sonic device
if you've never tried one. Luna Play Plus, $59

4. If I had a dollar for everytime I'm searching for a bobby pin or hair tie; I would be a very rich woman. This box by Pretty Useful Tools {on sale!} is perfection $17.50

5. This sweet little hair clip by Lucky Juju is just too sweet. Plus it reminds me of my friend Valerie's little Juju - who isn't so little anymore. $8

6. Every good instagrammer needs a selfie light, am I right? Chapter's Indigo might just make the very best, most perfectly boxed assortment of stocking stuffers out there. If you're local, definitely check them out. Pssst - they're all 30% off right now. $14

7. NO stocking is complete without candy and these new giftable bento boxes by Sugarfina are clever and delicious. This is "you had me at tequila" and would be perfect for the man in your life. $39

Happy Stuffing!
xox

see previous gift guides here, here + here

2018 Christmas Gift Guide : For The Littles

Christmas really is all about the littles.

Watching my own children's eyes light up on Christmas Eve - barely able to make it through dinner because of the pure excitement of what's to come - this is what it's all about.

As they get older, I try to hold onto tradition.

Chocolate advent calendars.

Pajamas always.

Plus a few other ideas I might have up my sleeve.

1. Tell me this is not the cutest little thing you ever saw? TELL ME. Ava and I attended a super fun media preview last month and she was nothing shy of enamored with these little bundles of light aptly called Sunny Bunnies (ps - this is Iris).
Yes, she bounces AND she light ups. Available exclusively at Walmart. $9.94

2. I couldn't resist including the coziest slippers ever by Ugg on this list and if yours is like mine, she loves herself some cozy. This shade is perfect for the little girl in your life although they're equally adorable in the tried and true Ugg beige. $59.95

3. I'm all about robes at Christmastime and this one by Tucker + Tate SO fits the bill. What little boy wouldn't want to look like a snowman this season? Exactly, none. Also available in the cutest unicorn version. $45

4. For the little footballer on your list, this ball by Tangle might just be the coolest thing I saw this year. The more you throw or kick it, the brighter it glows. Bedtime may never be the same. $24.99

5. When I was a kid, I always wanted a sleeping bag. The problem you see, is we never went camping. Plus, I'm not sure my mother even knew what a sleeping bag was - bless her heart. These are available at FAO Schwarz (now at The Bay!!)  and I thing the boy and girl versions are both equally fabulous, n'est pas? $85

6. Another fun new toy of 2018 (we saw it, we tried it) is Tic Tac Tongue by Yulu. With masks that had us looking like we had lizard tongues, laughs were had all around. Board games always have a way of bringing the entire family together. $14

7. This might be the most annoying toy I'll buy this Christmas but that won't stop this girl. Each of my kiddos had one and loved it. Ava will be no exception, of that I am sure. FAO Schwarz, $14

Just call me Clause.
Ms. Clause.
xo

2018 Christmas Gift Guide : For Him

I like to think I'm a pretty good gift-giver.

Mostly, I try to buy things people might love to have, but never think to buy for themselves.

These are often the best kind of gifts, n'est pas?
I think men are the all-around easiest to treat.
Because let's face it, not many of them are going shopping for themselves anytime soon - which leaves you with well, endless possibilities.

Here are just a few ideas for the special men in your life -

1. I ask you, who doesn't love a good cashmere sweater? This one gets bonus points for
 two reasons.
1. The waffle weave (love, love) and 2. I could totally steal it. (you know you were thinking it!)
At Nordstrom. $179

2. Here's something - If I were a boy? I would wear Chelsea Boots every.single.day - I love the colour of these by Rail. And the price is right. $99

3. Most of the men I know don't really care for jewellery. That said, I think just about all them might give this multi-wrap leather bracelet by Miansai a go.
 Decidedly masculine and super on-trend right now. $95

4. If he doesn't have this already, chances are he wants it. It's voice-activated which means he won't even have to get up from the couch. #winning Google Home, $129

5. I love the story behind the Jack Mason brand {read it here if you're so inclined}almost as much as I love the design of their watches.
I really like a chrono, larger face, big side buttons and a solid leather strap. This one checks off all the boxes and looks much pricier than it is. And, it's on sale. $165

6. Truth here is, I just really love this bottle. And can you ever go wrong with fragrance? I say nay.
Grey by Dolce & Gabbana, $80

PS - I didn't include above but if you are on the hunt for pj's, robes and comfy slippers, definitely check out the entire new UGG Shop. Think everything feels like your UGG boots feel = best.thing.ever

Happy Shopping
xo

2018 Christmas Gift Guide : My Wishlist

I can't believe Christmas is just over a month away.

It seems like as soon as Halloween is over - boom, it's Christmas.

Maybe because it got so cold in Toronto so quickly.

Maybe it's the bit of snow we wake up to almost every morning.

But I am SO feeling in the spirit this year.

In fact, I may or may not have just brought up the tree.

Here are a few of the things on my neverending list - although I'll likely be giving more than receiving.

And that's just fine by me.

1. This beauty has been on my radar for a while. The price tag is steep - and reviews are mixed but I'm still all about this Dyson hairdryer. Because, no one has time for an hour each time she washes her hair. Least of all me. $499

2. My dad and I recently found a box of my old records. I must say, it was like taking a trip down memory lane. I might like this to give them a listen again on this Crosley portable turntable. And this colour is too much fun. $82

3. Ah, the elusive Michele Sport Watch. I own one already but really like this more casual version - swiss-made and I love the square face. Also, #navyforthewin $395

4. So, this will likely never be mine. Mostly because it is a ridiculously crazy amount of money to spend on perfume. I was in Holt's last year and got a couple of samples of Ex Nihilo's Fleur Narcotique - still savouring every last delicious drop. $325

5. Oh, Aesop body cream. Hand lotion. Aesop, anything. $32

6. Tell me these aren't the cutest thing you've ever seen? I love a clean white sneaker and these by Comme des Garcons Play x Converse are no exception. Perfect for warmer days ahead - if they ever come back. $135

Lots more gift guides coming your way right through to the big day.

Although, if you're like me, everything you could possibly want doesn't come from a store.

Feeling blessed, staying present and doing my best to remember the reason for the season.

xo

Christmas Gift Guide : For Her

So, here's the thing.

I think the perfect gift is always one that you would really, really like to have, but would never buy for yourself.
Let's face it - every single one of us doesn't really need anything.
But damn, doesn't the Christmas season make it so hard to not want everything?

Plus a great blanket or the perfect pj's never hurt anyone.

1. I'm still hooked on these Olivia Burton watches. They're just so darn pretty! And, the price is definitely right. Find it here, $168.

2. I may or may not have more blankets than the next girl. But, it truly is the perfect gift. And, on cold winter nights? It just keeps on giving. Kennebunk, $54.

3. OK, now how did this get in here? If you're looking to splurge, this might just be it. It's the perfect simple, wear with everything, black calfskin bag - in a structure that's new and fresh. Plus, Balenciaga. I mean, who are we kidding. $2400.

4. Chanel anything is virtually untouchable, I get it. But why not treat her to this super cool shaped hand cream. Any girl would love to slip this out of her purse. And trust me, no one is buying this for herself. Chanel, $67.

5. Don't tell my Izzy but I think I finally found the perfect robe for her. We've been on the hunt for a while and this one sums her up plus, since she won't speak to anyone until at least noon, it can do the talking for her. Privledge, $89.

6. Please, please tell me you have smelled any of the Maison Margiela Replica fragrances? I am obsessed. Not only are the bottles too cool for school but the scents are so different with super fun names to match. This one, aptly called Lazy Sunday Morning is the perfect light fragrance for a day spent indoors. My favourite. Sephora, $150.

7. And last but not least. I have seen this baby everywhere this Christmas season. At $500+ it's not cheap but apparently it is is the $#*%! I cannot say I speak from experience however, I have had a ton of my blogger friends give it a go and the reviews are all nothing short of rave. Dyson, $499.

I'll have you know that I have unofficially started Christmas shopping.

My annual goal of having it all done by December 1st? Epic fail. 

But that's ok - somehow, I always manage to have it all under the tree by the 24th.

#gome

Happy Monday.

xo

Christmas Gift Guide 2017 : For Him

Apparently, the most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner.

I've been in a blur of family.work.sleep..repeat I must say, it just kinda crept up on me this year. 

But, no matter how hard I try, I just can't get away from Christmas shopping.

The list gets shorter but somehow, more expensive. Anyone else?

Today, I'm sharing my picks for the men in your life. 

Bonus points for gifts that are really for you, like the first one.

Ahem.

1. Tell me this doesn't look like the coziest hoodie you've ever seen. Men + velour = not so sure but I'm thinking it's worth a try. If it doesn't work out, see last line above. I mean really, it's the gift that just keeps on giving. Available at Bloomingdales, here, $80. {25% off now for f+f event}

2. My dad is obsessed with Sudoku. OBSESSED. When I'm picking up Ava after work, I often find him at the kitchen table solving a puzzle. I think he would love this wooden version that you can play again + again. Find it here, $18.

3. My nephew came to visit this past weekend following an afternoon of Christmas shopping. He smelled ridiculously good - and this Valentino Intense cologne is what he was wearing. Think clean, woodsy and modern. Also, rockstud bottle? YES PLEASE. Available here, $90.

4. The older I get, the more I like things from the past. I recently dug out a bunch of my old records and honestly, what a trip. It really does bring you back to a time when things were so much simpler - I think this is the perfect gift for any say, 35+ something or anyone who actually knows that at one point in time, we actually used to buy physical music. What? What?

Find it here, $80.

5. I almost {key word almost} forgot about Acca Kappa since their store in Etobicoke closed down. Good news! All of the product is still available on-line through their site. 

This is a long-time favourite of mine; the quality and the smell (!) is incredible. 

Try the hand cream for your powder room. Trust me, you'll thank me. 

For him, this might be a nice addition. Available on-line, here. $38.

6. I have been a longtime fan of Canadian line Matt and Nat; all vegan with simplistic styles that are always right. This messenger bag is perfection non? And the price won't break the bank. Plus, they literally last forever. Available here, $220.

7. OK, so here's something. These Salvatore Ferragamo gancini slides would make the perfect addition to his travel wardrobe - PLUS, it would mean he would actually need to travel somewhere. PLUS, it would have to be warm. PLUS, he would need company.

So really, yet again, it's a gift for you diguised as a gift for him. 

And really, aren't those the best kind? Find them here, $195.

So tell me, have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

I'm a no.

#sigh

Christmas Gift Guide '16 : Last Minute Gift Ideas

So, here's the thing.

No one sets out to be a last-minute shopper.

But inevitably, every.single.year I am running out at the very last minute to pick up at least one gift.

Why? 

I don't really know.

Sometimes it's procrastination, others because I struggle to find that perfect something and, more often than not, because I forgot that one person I really needed to remember.

Feel me?

And anyway, I don't care what you say, as far as I am concerned, I can easily do all of my shopping in three stores.

Shoppers Drug Mart, Chapters and Starbucks.

Boom.

book | Art of Shaving peppermint shaving cream | pillow | XO Mittens
Nuxe Dry Oil | Ariana Grande Perfume | Starbucks Quilted Traveller

Loving the idea of a shiny red Starbucks traveller that screams Christmas + the addition of a gift card to cover a festive drink.
Santa approved.
#5moresleeps

Christmas Gift Guide '16 : Stocking Stuffers

Is there anything more fun than stockings?

Honestly, sometimes, I end spending more filling those babies than I do on actual gifts! 

I may or may not get carried away with the chocolate. OK, I do.

Here's just a few of the items that will make our list this year.

emoji bobby pins {use code PRESENTS to save 30%} | batiste dry shampoo | bando travel mug |
jellycat smiling piggy | cashmere haze spray | sugarfina "cheers" candy

I always include gift cards to Starbucks for the older kiddos - and a bookstore card for ms. Ava Grace.
The latter of whom may or may not be obsessed with the champagne gummy bears from Sugarfina. Have you tried them???

Our friends at Church + Dwight have offered up a chance at $50 worth of stocking stuffers including Batiste - #thereisnootherdryshampoo 
OPEN TO CANADA ONLY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good Luck!

Just 12 days left until Christmas.

xo

Christmas Gift Guide '16 : For the Littles

If I had to say what my favourite part of Christmas was, it would have to be the look on the kids' faces when they get that special something they've been hoping for.

Christmas morning stockings and breakfast would be a close second.

The sheer delight of it all gets me every time.

Tom's boots {10% off on site} | Maileg Mouse | book | J. Crew monster trackpants {30% off} |
Capelli of New York pillow | Big Mouth peppermint twist snowtube | PJ Salvage unicorn robe

I actually want a few of these items for myself - I'm looking at you peppermint twist snowtube.

I am looking at you.

xo

Christmas Gift Guide '16 : For Her

Isabella and I had a conversation last weekend about how much easier it is to buy for a woman vs a man.

I think it's obviously because we would likely buy what we might enjoy ourselves.
It might also explain why I end up with more things to keep than to give. Anyone else?

My favourite gifts to give are things that you really want but would never buy for yourself.

Therein lies the real treat.

plum pretty kimono | happy plug-in earphones | la mer starter kit | olivia burton watch | ugg throw | jo malone candles

blanket scarf | cc beanie

Be sure to visit our instagram page today - we may or may not be giving away 2 of our favourite gifts for her to one lucky reader.

Just call me Clause. 

Mrs. Clause.

Christmas Gift Guide '16 : For Him

I'm happy to say I still have a few men on my list this year - one of my favourites to buy for.

Probably because they're often things I wouldn't {or couldn't} buy for myself.

Just makes the hunt for the perfect je ne sais quois more interesting.

Daniel Wellington watch (use code avagrace to save 15%!) | Go Go Speaker | Shulz + Malley grooming kit |
Swell water bottle | J. Lindberg belt | Michael Kors card case | 1901 Chelsea Boot

Sidenote: my very favourite gift to buy for the man in my life is shoes. 

Odd I know. 

xo

My Christmas Wish List

They say, in order to love others, you must first learn how to love yourself.

So, what better way to start doing that than to share my own Christmas Wish List to kick off the holiday season?

Oh yes, it's coming.

Charlotte Tilbury Lipstick | MantraBand Bangle | Kate Spade Sleepshirt | Stuart Weitzman Thighlands
Flowerbomb Perfume | Soia + Kyo Coat | Cristabelle Choker |

Stay tuned each Tuesday through Christmas as I share my picks for the season.

What's on your list this year?

xo

Valentine's Day Gift Guide

Ah, Valentine's Day.

I remember the days of early dating and marriage where it would have been a sin to even dream of forgetting flowers. 

Today, I find it's more about the kids than anything else.

But still, I love this day of love.

see what I did there?

Here are a few fun ideas to help celebrate the occasion! 

1. For me. ahem. I haven't actually smelled this fragrance but the bottle alone? Screams love. And it would look lovely in my bathroom. Or anywhere. Valentino, $125

2. For your significant other. He may have a "good" watch that he wears every day but how fun would this navy one with a silicone band be for the weekend? It's one of those gifts that you might not buy for yourself but would love to have. Michael Kors, $300

3. For my Ava. Somehow, a heart-covered sweater is not a fashion faux-pas until you're at least 12. Same goes for matching printed ballet flats. I would pair these with dark denim.
Too cute for words. The Gap, sweater $21, shoes $24.99

4. For the little man in your life. I die. This might be the cutest Valentine's Day shirt I have ever seen. I remember buying Julian similiar one's when he was just a little guy - with words like "heartbreaker" or "I love mama" but this? This is a whole other level of adorable. Love it with some cozy grey sweat pants and slip on shoes.The Gap, Dr. Love top $17.99, shoes $29.95

5. For your boyfriend. Similiar to my thoughts on number 1 above, this bottle just does me in. Fabulous. This cologne I have actually smelled and it is lovely. This would make a perfect gift for those early, giddy days where you need to buy them something but you don't really want it to look too thought out. Valentino, $98

6. For your gal pal. Diptyque's limited edition "Rosaviola". Literally lasts forever. Just like your friendship. Awwww. Diptyque, $97

7. For the teenage girl. It's a little tough to see but these panties have emoji's on them! I mean, perfection. I know she would get a kick out of them and the quality on these is excellent.
 Cheek Frills, $72

8. For both of you. Forget lingerie, this is truly a gift for you both. And, it clearly lays out the facts in your relationship - just in case he forgot after all these years. Kate Spade, $50

What's on your heart-shaped list?
xo

Christmas Gift Guide 2015 : Stocking Stuffers

Filling the kids stockings is probably one of my favourite parts of the holidays.

I love to get creative with what I put in; mostly because I know how excited THEY are about finding what's inside.

I've included lots of kid-friendly ideas below along with a few items that I wouldn't mind finding in my stocking.

even if I don't hang one anymore. sigh.

1. Who doesn't love a gift card? Especially one that will eventually translate into one my favourite things?...coffee. Starbucks, $$.

2. Customized nutella? Don't mind if I do. I can think of LOTS of people {most of whom live in my house} who would get a huge kick out of this. Available in Toronto at Holt Renfrew Bloor + Yorkdale or here. $12.99 

3. You must check out Harvest Paper Co. Even if you don't end up buying a set of pencils, the creative sayings will give you a good giggle. I chose to highlight one of the tamer ones. $3

4. I am semi-obsessed with all things Saje. This set, with fabulous smelling items for your hair, would be a great addition for any teens stocking. This one is lavender, $14.95

5. There is no snow 'round these parts this year. Bringing snow to the kids stocking would surely be a hit. Snowball fight in the family room? Playvisions Toys, $30.

6. Nudestix are the perfect stocking stuffer for any beauty lover. These metallic pencils, in what might be the prettiest tin ever, have been on constant rotation. One swipe across the eyelid takes you from day to night in a matter of seconds. Sephora, $38.

7. Try telling me these are not the cutest socks you've ever seen? Grey, cable knit, with pom poms. Check, check and check. Ugg, {also in cream} $45.

8. No stocking is complete without candy. And if it's champagne flavoured? Well, all the better. By Sugarfina at Nordstrom, $20

What do you love to fill your stockings with?

Christmas Gift Guide 2015 : For Him

There are so many great gifts out there for the guys in your life - whether you prefer to go traditional, nostalgic or high-tech, choices abound. 

I won't say which but a number of these are on my shopping list - 

1. This update to the original fitbit comes with a new wider band and monitors everything from your heart rate to your fitness activity to how much sleep your getting. It then wirelessly synchs all of this information to whichever computer or smartphone you set up. It even displays your caller ID if in proximity to your phone - no need to stop a workout for an unnecessary call. Pretty neat. $149.95

2. Old Skool is always cool. Are you, like us, still holding onto your old vinyl collection? How fun would this be on Christmas morning. Your kids won't know what hit them - by Crosley Radio, available in blue, black or red. $79.99

3. Shearling gloves are and always will be a classic gift and on that can last a lifetime with proper care. This Ugg version, in this exact colour, is my very favourite. Worth the splurge. $175

4. Anyone else as obsessed with Herschel anything as I am? The entire line reminds me so much of the preppy backpacks girls in my high school used to carry. I never thought they were cool then, today, I've changed my mind. Duffle, $90. 

5. Yes, shoes again. I almost always buy my own husband shoes - I think I got this from my mother who loves to gift shoes on every occasion. Kind of brilliant if you ask me since who doesn't 

love shoes? I think these black trainers by Cole Haan would make the perfect addition 

to any guy's closet. on sale, $109.95

6. Ah, pjs. THE quintessential Christmas gift. We all get new ones every December 24th - this Uniqlo version is on my list because my husband loves his heattech scarf that I picked up in New York for him so much. I can only imagine how cozy these would be. $39.99

7. Last, but certainly not least, my new favourite cologne. I have passed this little ditty along to anyone looking to purchase a new scent for their guy. The bottle? Stunning. The scent? So, SO good. I picked mine up duty free on my flight back from Berlin and thought I did 

pretty well - Sephora's price for this fabulous gift set beats it hands down and I am all about 

that decorative box. Paco Rabanne Invictus, $96

For more inspiration, see this year's previous gift guides, here + here

Winner of the Hallmark Canada giveaway is comment #31 - @flowerchild. I will email you! 

Christmas Gift Guide 2015 : For Her

People tell me all the time that I am so hard to buy for.

I must say, I wholeheartedly disagree.

I am SO easy since really, I love and want everything. 

Yes, it's true, I don't necessarily need anything but what girl does?

Here are just a few things that are topping my list - some for me and others to give away.

1. The colours in this stacked Henri Bendel stunner are so gorgeous. It would be lovely for the holidays. Or anytime. on sale $89.60

2. How could one of Jo Malone's latest not make the wishlist? This one, with scents of mimosa and cardamom, might just be my favourite yet. $125
3. I am actually wishing for on the hunt for a new cozy robe. This one, by Pottery Barn, fits the bill. And then some. {seriously, how cute is that fur hood?!} on sale, $83
4. I own this cardigan by Tory Burch in orange and it is perfection. Read, perfect length, weight and just the right amount of bling. I think my mom would love this. $225
5. A Kate Spade red jewelry box WITH a cute gold bow? Check and check. $40 {equally cute in turquoise or black. swoon.}
6. This might be the most practical gift on the list and one any working girl read: blogger would love. Black nylon that easily wipes down in superb quality, by Kate Spade. $168
7. And last, but certainly not least, this new Urban Decay naked smoky palette. I love the one I'm currently using so much - can't imagine it would be any different with this one that boasts shades that include rich, dark navys and blacks. Love. $54 

And in the spirit of giving, here's your chance at this adorable gift package - all courtesy of Hallmark Canada.
Always a frequent stop during the holidays.
Open to Canadian residents only.

Crafter & Co Candle / Together Across the Miles CardHolder / Crafter & Co Soap - ARV $50 

To enter, simply: 
1. Leave me a comment letting me know if you've started your Christmas shopping and who on your list would love this! 
2. For a bonus entry, follow me on instagram @avagracescloset and leave me a comment letting me know you did.

I'll choose a winner next Tuesday.
Good Luck! 

Christmas Gift Guide 2015 : For The Littlest

This year, I thought I would begin sharing our annual Christmas Gift Guides with the most important little girl on your list.

she might also be the littlest.

I mean, isn't Christmas really all about them?

1. Paris PJ's - I always, always buy new pj's for each of the kids. I plan to continue this tradition forever, regardless of how old they get - these are not only adorable but have a special meaning this year with the tragedy that unfolded in this incredible city. Any small way to remember those who lost their lives so senselessly. I can't think about much else these days. $36

2. Olivia EVERYTHING - Truth be told, we already picked up an outfit for Ava this past weekend - I mean, who could resist? We got home and she promptly changed into her new duds, grabbed her Olivia book and proceeded to read it repeatedly until I couldn't take it anymore dinnertime. She also asked me if Olivia is a pig, how can she talk? Anyone? $12.99/piece.

3. Karl Lagerfeld Kids Choupette Bag - I have a bit of an obsession with this sweet little bag. Anything kitty designed usually gets me. The entire line is unbelievable - see more of it here on Thursday. $100

4. Shopkins Plush - This {and every other Shopkins item} is on Ava's Christmas List. Honestly, I totally understand why since each item is cuter than the one before. And the names? So clever. I get a kick out of reading them with her each time she opens a new package of collectibles. $9.99

5. Pandora Disney Charms - We saw these at Disney World this past summer and I couldn't get enough of them. This one, with it's vibrant colour scheme, happens to be my favourite but you can find each and every princess. And Mickey. And Minnie. And sparkle-encrusted crowns. And....$75

6. Fashion Plates - If I had to name my very favourite toy from childhood, this would be it. I spent HOURS moving those little plates around and creating outfits.When I saw this set available again earlier this year, I knew it had to go on my Christmas list. Yes, I said mine. $29.99

Just 4 weeks until Christmas.
I'm sorry.

Love you, Dad :: Father's Day Gift Guide 2015

I'm gonna say it.

My dad is the best.

Why you ask? Well, for starters, he is the kind of dad that used to pick up not just me, but 4 of my friends from work in the city, drive each girl home and never complain about it.

If we wanted Dairy Queen, he took us. Given, it was likely because he too wanted a banana split but that's not the point here.

He worked in a factory all of his life and while he couldn't bring me extravagant treats, he would sometimes bring me a can of pop or a chocolate bar from the vending machine and then call me up from downstairs when he got home.

He would point at the drawer in the kitchen that was "mine" and I would open it to find the  little surprise.

It wasn't the sweet treat that made me so happy.

It was, and is, the fact that I knew he thought about me during the day.

Today, we sometimes put too much emphasis on the what vs the how.

And I'll tell you, no amount of whatever could replace how he made me feel.

And that's loved.

Still does.

Boys Vilebrequin swim shorts // Jack Black Lip Balm // Men's Vilebrequin swim shorts 

 Tom's shoes// leather trim briefcase // Daniel Wellington watch {use code "avagracescloset" to save 15%!} 

 leather grill mitt // shave kit // pizza cutter

The team at Soprano Handbags are offering you a chance at a fabulous prize pack for your daddy!

Open to residents of Canada + the U.S. 

Mandatory Entry :: leave me a comment telling me WHY your dad deserves to win this prize package.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Best of Luck! 

Happy Valentine's Day : A Gift Guide

I've always been a sucker for anything heart shaped. 

What better time than Valentine's Day to feed that vice?

for mom
for teacher
for teens
for your gal pal
for your love
for your crush
for hubby
for wifey 
for your littlest love

And of course, who doesn't love a little lingerie on this love-filled day?
Be sure to visit Third Love to see their pretty Valentine's collection + stop by the blog tomorrow for a special discount code! 

Christmas Gift Guide '14 : Stocking Stuffers

Growing up, we never had a fireplace. Or stockings. 

My girlfriend Christina would tell me stories each year of how her sisters and mom filled each other's stockings with fun makeup, chocolate, books and magazines. 

If we shopped in the months leading up to Christmas, she would often pick up hard to find or this would be perfect for Laura's stocking items.

I thought it was such a fun idea.

Today, filling the kids stockings with goodies is one of my favourite things to do.

I choose fun things to read, special treats to eat and usually include small gift cards for the older ones that they can use throughout the winter for hot chocolate.

We always save them as the very last thing we do on Christmas morning.

Don't you always save the best for last?

Stockings.
Just one more reason why this is the most wonderful time of the year.