Welcome to our Annual Christmas Gift Guide and Giveaway! Get ready for a curated selection of fantastic gift ideas and a chance to win amazing prizes. Once again I’ve gathered suggestions from every member of our family to ensure there’s something for everyone. We’ve got a variety of recommendations to make your holiday shopping a breeze.

First I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors who help make this possible, enabling us to spread awesome prize packages to lots of families once again this year! So grab your favorite beverage, take a moment to unwind, and enjoy browsing our carefully curated annual Christmas Gift Guide, filled with shopping inspiration and exclusive coupon codes.

You can also find my lists from the last eight years here (2022), here (2021), here (2020), here (2019), here (2018), here (2017), here (2016) and here (2015)  as well as even more Catholic gift ideas listed in my past Easter posts as well: 100+ Easter Basket Stuffers & Catholic Gift Ideas and Easter Symbols: Catholic Gift Ideas.

Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Additional affiliate links included.

New Finds for Advent

• The World Waits – Also available directly from Sophia Institute Press
• An Advent Hope: A Children’s Book about Family Advent Traditions from Holy Heroes
• Wooden Advent Wreath from Shining Light Toys (Save 10% with SHOWEROFROSESBLOG)
• All About Advent & Christmas: Sharing the Seasons of Hope & Wonder with Children – Such a beautiful resource and welcome addition to our family bookshelves!
• Spiritual Steps to Christmas: Daily Meditations for Sanctifying Advent – I purchased this last year when it was released. Also available directly from TAN Books!
• Faithful Friends: Favorite Stories of People in the Bible – This will be such a fun addition to our Jesse Tree this year!
• The Road to Bethlehem: Daily Meditations for Advent and Christmas: Daily Meditations for Advent and Christmas – Brand New and also available directly from TAN Books!
• Saint Nicholas: Patron Saint of Children from St. Augustine Academy Press – I wasn’t aware of this book until yesterday, but it’s available for Pre-Order now! When my copy arrives I’ll be sure to share more. The whole series looks amazing: Our Friends in Heaven Trilogy
• ‘Twas the Day Before Christmas in Bethlehem Town – I shared a little more about this new picture book in this year’s New Christmas Books for the Feast of St. Nicholas.

New Finds for Christmas

• Christmas Around the World Series: A Grandma for Christmas, The Christmas Compass, The Christmas Camera, The Christmas Star, The Christmas Stove, The Christmas Donkey – I recently purchased this whole set of books. Can’t wait to read them with the kids!
• The Advent Wreath above changes into a Christmas Wreath! ❤️ – Beautiful job, Shining Light Dolls! (Save 10% with SHOWEROFROSESBLOG)
• Holy Night 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle
• The Shepherd at the Crib and the Cross – This one was published last Christmas and included in last year’s Advent Book Basket but definitely worth highlighting again this year! Highly recommend!
• What Child is This? Coloring Book – Such beautiful illustrations! I’ll try and share more pictures in a separate post soon.
• The Christmas Rocket – I shared a little more in this year’s New Christmas Books for the Feast of St. Nicholas.
• The First Christmas for Our Dear Little Ones from St. Augustine Academy Press
• Holy Family Rag Dolls, also from Shining Light Dolls (Save 10% with SHOWEROFROSESBLOG) Also check out their Deluxe Christmas Nativity Wooden Playset from Shining Light Toys
• 12 Days of Christmas 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle and this 12 Days of Christmas Wreath 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

St. Nicholas – December 6th

• Trimming the Tree with Nicholas with a Pine, Citrus and Spice scent from Forestville Candle Company
• St. Nicholas and St. Nicholas Helper – These seem to be lookalikes for the Ostheimer toys my family loves and collected for years, at a more affordable price from Green Elephant Global out of TX.
• St. Nicholas Block or December Saints from Almond Rod Toys 
• Kids St. Nicholas Socks and Adult St. Nicholas Socks from Sock Religious
• St. Nicholas Hand Blown Glass Ornament from Old World Christmas Ornament
• St. Nicholas and the Nine Gold Coins – Review can be found here. Other great books include The Baker’s DozenThe Baker’s Dozen: A Saint Nicholas Tale, Drinking with St. Nick: Christmas Cocktails for Sinners and Saints from the author of Drinking with the Saints: The Sinner’s Guide to a Holy Happy Hour, and The Miracle of Saint Nicholas
• St. Nicholas Blend Christmas Coffee or in a neat Gift Set (Save 15% till 11/23/23 with coupon EARLYBIRD)
• St. Nicholas Candy Cane Cards
• St. Nicholas Stickers from Catholic Family Crate
• Editable Letter From Saint Nicholas – We bought and have used this great letter for a couple years now! Be sure to include St. Nicholas Chocolate Coins (Here is my FREE document for this new updated version! You can find my original St. Nicholas Chocolate Coins in the archives.) 
• Bonus: Mentioned up above in New Finds for Advent, but be sure to check out and pre-order Saint Nicholas: Patron Saint of Children from St. Augustine Academy Press

Scroll through all of our past St. Nicholas posts here.

Our Lady of Guadalupe – December 12th

• Cloak of Roses – Our Lady of Guadalupe from Regina Martryum Productions
• Our Lady of Guadalupe Pop-Up Book – You can get a peek at the inside here. 
• The Virgin of Guadalupe (1000 Piece)
• Our Lady of Guadalupe Candle
• Our Lady of Guadalupe Wooden Candle from Shining Light Dolls (Save 10% with SHOWEROFROSESBLOG)
• Our Lady of Guadalupe Rag Doll also from Shining Light Dolls
• Our Lady of Guadalupe Floral Catholic T-Shirt from Sweet Little Ones Shop! And here’s another darling shirt I’ve purchased in the past: Vintage Guadalupe Inspired Short Sleeve T-shirt.
• Guadalupe Mysteries: Deciphering the Code
• Our Lady’s Wardrobe – My girls love this picture book!
• Our Lady of Guadalupe Rosary from Come Holy Spirit Rosaries

You can also check out the Our Lady of Guadalupe Pillow Case from Prayer Pillowcases! We also love the Our Lady of Guadalupe Puzzle, if you can find it, and we usually celebrate with an Our Lady of Guadalupe Brunch or Dinner after Mass! Our Lady of Guadalupe Mexican Mocha Coffee is a perfect addition!

Scroll through all our past Our Lady of Guadalupe posts here.

Santa Lucia Day – December 13th

• Lucia Saint of Light
• Lucia Crown  – Gold with LED Lights and Starboy Hat
• St. Lucia’s Light 8×10 from Sleightholm Folk Art (also have and love St. Lucia 8×10 Swedish Christmas God Jul Print)
• Lucia Morning in Sweden and White Swedish Candelabra
• Santa Lucia Braided Bread or Lussekatter – Bake extra for a friend!  Plus White Dress for Young Women to pair with Red Ribbon and
• St. Lucia Socks from Sock Religious

Scroll through all of our past St. Lucy posts here.

Favorite Nativity Sets

We have Fisher Price, Playmobil and Shining Light Doll Nativities too, and the Nativity Fabric Advent Calendar, but I especially love our wooden versions! I also love our Schleich Nativity but it’s hard to find, same with A Child Is Born from Naturally Catholic.  Fontanini Holy Family (a wedding gift – also available from The Catholic Co.) was the beginning of our Fontanini Collection. Our 11 year old gets a new addition every year from his godparents. ❤️

• Kurt Adler Wooden Nativity Advent Calendar with 24 Magnetic Figures
• Joseph Walking and Mary on the Donkey  – Note: I recently ran across these lookalikes at Etsy at a lower price point.
• The Giving Manger – Our little ones add straw to this during Advent as Joseph and Mary on the Donkey make their way down our Jesse Tree Path. (Also available from The Catholic Co. – Save 15% till 11/23/23 with coupon EARLYBIRD)
• Ostheimer Nativity Miniture Set and Ostheimer Nativity Set Full Size – This was a gift a couple years ago and we’ve been adding to the collection. Additional pieces can be found here. 
• Childrens Nativity Blocks Starter Set and Deluxe Wooden Nativity Set from Almond Rod Toy
• Playmobil Christmas Nativity – My kids have always loved Playmobil. Other great Christmas sets include: St. Nicholas and the Three Wise Men if you can find them! Oh! And the Advent Wreath!
• NEW: Deluxe Christmas Nativity Wooden Playset from Shining Light Dolls (Save 10% with SHOWEROFROSESBLOG)
• NEW: Christmas Nativity Wooden Cube Puzzle from Shining Light Dolls (Save 10% with SHOWEROFROSESBLOG)
• Saintly Heart Nativity Playset from Saintly Hearts

Our children have once again taken an active role in this year’s gift guide! I asked each of them to list nine gift ideas for me to share. Most of their suggestions are things they already own, with a few desired items included. Here are their answers:

Please note: Our children usually unwrap three gifts from my husband and I on Christmas morning- something they need, something they want, and one other gift which is usually faith based. We draw names on the first Sunday of Advent for Christkindl and end with a family Christkindl gift exchange. It’s always the first thing they want to do after our morning prayers (or morning Mass if we didn’t make it to the Midnight Mass) on Christmas Day! They also receive books on Epiphany (which often include many books that have been given to me to review, or school books for the next semester). The gift suggestions listed below have been received over a number of different years/occasions, handed down from older siblings, or on their wish list.

Captain’s Picks – Age 23

“Been saving a video just for when you asked this question🤪🎄

A lot of these are similar to last year’s list but like I said before, the older you get the less you want stuff and the more you want time with people you love. ❤️”

• 1 – A fun, easy to carry game that a lot of people can play. (Bang fits that category perfectly and is easily one of my top favorites!)
• 2- A nice pair of sunglasses. I know I had them on my list last year but like come on. Who wouldn’t like getting a new pair of shades 😎
• 3- Cowboy hat or boots (definitely spices up your wardrobe, and is a MUST if you live in the south 🤠)
• 4- Running/gym shoes (if you use enough you’ll quickly wear them down so it’s nice to get a new pair every couple years)
• 5- A Rosary. (I’m not always very good at praying the rosary everyday but it’s a great way to grow closer to our Lady and our Lord.
• 6 – A fun/unique Desk Calendar. (I love seeing a new picture of the National State Parks every morning. Makes me want to do some traveling 😄🏕️)
• 7- A Charlie Brown or Blues Clues shirt/sweater (something that expresses your inner child🤪)
• 8- A gift card to go towards a hobby or a favorite pass time (like an Amazon or Barnes and Noble Gift Card, Scuba Shop, or Music Store Gift Card)
• 9- An Apple Watch/ something to track your health stats. (I’ve also been doing a lot of physical activity so it would be nice to monitor my heart rate and other stats. Definitely on the more expensive side but I can see why people my age get them.

Ranger’s Picks – Age 21

He has been pretty busy but I finally got his list! His list is more of a “wish list” than it is specific to things he has. My comments are in italics. 🙂

• Ski Stuff: Ski Backpack, Helmet, Jacket, Ski Rack for Car – Costco has been my go to for helmets and some accessories for the kids. Like his season pass, he’s probably going to have to buy that ski rack himself! 😉
• Wallet – I actually ordered this one for his stocking this year! I’ll have to slip in a coffee gift card.
• Coffee Gift Cards – To go along with that wallet?! 🙂
• Guitar / Accessories – He has this Ukulele, and a Guitar my parents gave us years ago. I love hearing him play and sing… Reminds me so much of my Dad. On his wish list is an Electric Guitar and I’ve been researching best affordable options. I’ve been considering this one or this one for Christmas or his birthday. If you have suggestions send them my way… Or there is always the LEGO version! 😉
• Phone case – No idea what type of phone case to suggest (send me your favorites, I think he needs a new one!) so I’m throwing in a picture of the ski coat we got him on clearance last February. He wore it skiing at Schweitzer all spring.
• Shoes – If you live somewhere cold we all recommend the North Face Thermoball Traction Mules. St. Nick brought each of our older kids a pair of these last December and three of them listed them on their recommendation lists this year. I love my pair too! Hey Dudes and his Timberland Boots are other favorites.
• Coat – He recently bought himself this really nice one at American Eagle and has been loving it!
• Golf Stuff – Golf Balls, Head Covers, etc
• Car Phone Holder
• Car Stickers – He bought and paid for his very first car this summer. He ordered these American Flag decals for the side doors.
• Booooozeee (book) – I was already planning on giving him his own copy of Drinking with Saint Nick on Dec 6th! Maybe I’ll get him the new Deluxe Copy of Drinking with the Saints for Christmas!
• Gym Stuff – He has this Nike Gym Bag and loves his Airpods. He’s also mentioned hearing good things about MTM Ops Pre Workout Powder Energy Drink.

Twinkle Toe’s Picks – Age 20

• North Face ThermoBall Traction Shoes – These shoes feel literally like slippers and are so great especially after a long day of skiing.
• Unsolved Case Files – If you don’t know me, I absolutely love solving mysteries. My family used to always joke that I would become a private detective. This is so fun and it almost feels like I’m solving a real murder.
• Jewelry Tree Stand – This is a beautiful stand to keep my necklaces, bracelets, and earrings (I’ve been given quite a collection of earrings from friends, I’ll get my ears pierced soon haha). It’s big enough to hold a good amount of jewelry but small enough to not take up too much space on the counter.
• Heatless Hair Skinny Curling Ribbon Set – I can’t recommend this curler enough! It is a game-changer! Because I have such thick hair, curling with an iron usually takes 30 mins-1hr but with this, it takes 5 mins. 🙂 Definitely a must have for those who are too busy to do their hair before Mass/events and those who don’t want to compromise their hair health.
• Bulova Mother of Pearl Watch – I was gifted this elegant timepiece on my birthday this year and I love it so much! It’s such a classy accessory that adds so much to any outfit.
• Sunflower Mason Jar Coffee Cup – This beautiful sunflower glass coffee jar was a birthday gift from I friend and I couldn’t love it more. It gives me a perfect excuse to use my parent’s Espresso Machine!
• Bagallini Women’s Backpack – This is an absolutely fantastic backpack that’s incredibly durable, comfortable to wear, chic, and has plenty of pockets to keep me organized. It’s laptop compartment is well-padded and fits my laptop amazingly. Overall, it’s a very stylish yet practical backpack.
• Poloroid Go Camera – Polaroid cameras are so incredible because they are able to connect a moment with a photo that you can hold, share, and display instantly.
• Manicure Set – Such a great set that has all the tools to keep your nails healthy!

Chiquita’s Picks – Age 18

• Ukulele – Ukuleles are fun, easy to learn and is my number one way to de-stress when the homework load starts getting insane. Also, it looks super cute hanging on my wall in my dorm room! 🙂
• Vera Bradley Campus Sunflower Backpack – This backpack has been a life saver! When I need to lug around all my huge books, everything always fits and fits well. I love it!
• AirPods – During Work Study, I’m able to listen to music, pray with Hallow, or speed read my homework assignments! I would have definitely missed quite a few deadlines without them. 😛
• Fitbit – Just as a watch and built in alarm clock (buzzes, doesn’t chime 👌), my Fitbit keeps me on track throughout the day, but it also keeps me moving and shows how much (more accurately, how little) sleep I’ve been getting so that I know to make sure to get to bed early!
• Miraculous Medal Slider Necklace from Telos Art Shop – Yep, it’s back! This necklace was on my list of favorites last year and it’s still going strong. I’m wearing it right now, actually. Even though it’s not as shiny as before and though my baby sis broke the chain twice, I’ve always fixed it and made it wearable. It’s just so pretty! (**Use code ROSES for 10% off!)
• Clothes (any clothes!) – I never realized how hard it is to see people every single day and look cute all the time. Clothes, any clothes, are always welcome! Dress code skirts, dresses, and tops are definitely one of my top gift suggestions. On behalf of all eighteen year olds, we all just love clothes 🙂 (Last Christmas we got her these darling Camo Ankle Boots!) Her Columbia ski coat is also super cute!
• Benedictus and Hallow Subscriptions – The Benedictus Subscription was on my list last year and I ABSOLUTELY love them! My favorite part about them (besides the fact that I don’t have to flip around in a huge missal) is the Morning and Afternoon Psalms. I also love my Hallow subscription! If I’m struggling to cope with stress, social anxiety, or just want to give a some of my day to God, I always find what I need on Hallow. The professional advice is always helpful!
• Books!! – I LOVE books and honestly, don’t really know what specific books to list… one of my tops favs is “The Shadow of His Wings” (another repeat), or Dickens, or Austen, or whatever! (Note: Shadow of His Wings is also available directly from Ignatius Press!)
• Art Supplies – Water Colors, Acrylic Paint, Paint by Numbers, Coloring Pencils, Gel Pens, I just love them all! Perfect therapeutic pastime after a long day of classes and homework ☺️

Scout’s Picks – Age 16

• Academic Planner – Going into highschool, I wish I had used the academic planner my mom gave me last year more. This year I am using it daily! These planners help keep track of due dates on assignments and papers for classes and check off daily tasks. For a school planner, it’s surprisingly fun to use, and mine has many cool decorations and iconic Star Wars quotes. 😄 Highly recommend.
• Airpods – I can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t want AirPods, especially Apple AirPods. I mostly use them for music when doing school or chores around the house or watching recorded class videos on the computer. They’re very portable 😎 Very nice.
• LEGO Ideas Ship in a Bottle – The LEGO Ideas sets are all fantastic builds made by brilliant LEGO fans. The ship in the bottle was fun to build and is a neat addition to the many LEGO decorations in our room.
• Cover Your Assets – Haha, I love this game 😂
• Bronze Tone St. Benedict Leather Bracelet – I wear this bracelet all the time, whether I’m going to Church or going to Hockey practice. It’s classy and Catholic at the same time. 😎
• Hockey Skates – “Don’t rent skates, man. Buy some. It’s worth it.” – Michael Gordon 😎
• The North Face Thermoball Traction Shoes – These shoes are so comfy. It’s like wearing small blankets on your feet 😄 They work as slippers and outdoor shoes at the same time. Highly recommend.
• Hydro Flask Water Bottle – This water bottle was a gift from a friend… who’s a girl… who can only be my friend… for now… 😉
• St. Michael Socks – “These socks are aMaZiNg!” – SuperCarlinBrothers
• Travel Hammock – Hammocks are awesome!… if you have sturdy trees on your property… which we don’t… *sniff* 😞
• Wish list: Sturdy Trees

Rose’s Picks – Age 13

• Heart Necklace – Dad gave me a heart necklace on my 13th birthday. It’s a family tradition for girls on our 13 birthday. It is SO beautiful and it makes me feel loved! (Had to drop hints to get it though.)
• Headphones – I don’t have any, but noise-cancelling headphones are great for online classes and peace and quiet around the house!
• LEGO Cozy House – I have found my lego person’s dream house!!!
• Iceberg – I’ve read a lot of books this year, like a lot! and these (Iceberg, Anne of Green Gables and Half Upon a Time) are my ultimate favorite ones!!  (Wish list: Words on Fire, Resistance, Rescue, A Night Divided, Lines of Courage)
• Anne of Green Gables Book Set with Journal – I also really love my Anne of Green Gables Coloring Book and my Scratch and Sketch Books. This is my first time reading these books (only on the 3rd book so far) The characters are absolutely amazing and Anne is so funny! Can’t wait to see what happens next!
• Half Upon a Time Trilogy including Half Upon a Time, Twice Upon a Time, and Once Upon the End – Didn’t think I would like these books at first till I read the first couple of chapters! And I think there are some follow up books to it too… 
• Pink Sweater Pusheen – IT’S SO CUTE!!!
• Dashing Diva Gloss Nail Strips – These are really fun to do with friends. They are beautiful, plus they last pretty long!
• #SaintGoals Sweatshirt from Annunciation Designs – (Note: This has been out of stock. Elayne opened up pre-orders for a couple weeks so if you’d like one now is the time to snag it!)

Bud’s Picks – Age 11

• LEGO Viking Ship – Creator Sets are always favorites!
• Rollerblades Fury Boy’s Inline Skates – He has had these a few years and still going strong! Perfect for playing hockey in the driveway.
• Lord of the Rings Playing Cards
• Wish list: LEGO Ideas Viking Village – He would love this to go with his other Viking sets… We’ll see! He’s also asked for a “Star Wars” themed birthday this year. If you have any suggestions send them my way! I’ve been looking at a couple Star Wars LEGO Sets and the Advent Calendar.
• In the Shadows of Rome book series- He has read and loved the first five in the series! Book six is on his wishlist! (These are also available directly from Ignatius Press!)
• Lord of the Rings Deluxe Pocket Boxed Set – He loves having his own set and this portable size is perfect!
• Raccoon Tycoon
• Hey Dude’s for Boys
• Wraparound Hockey Stick Protector for with his hockey stick and All Purpose Goal for Outdoor Sports

Grace’s Picks – Age 6

• Boogie Board Reusable Writing Tablet –
• Cloud B Twilight Ladybug Night Light Star Projector – Pink – This is a handmedown from older siblings (they each had a different color) and has been well loved. Our little girls use it every night! They actually had a little argument over who gets to list it! 🙂 It looks like Cloud B has so many options now. The little deer and bunny are so cute!
• The Sister Seraphina Mysteries – The Pursuit of the Pilfered Cheese, The Curious Christmas Trail, Strange Sound by the Sea
• Smoothie Maker Blender Set – Last Christmas the girls big gift was a new little play kitchen from IKEA (Ranger custom painted the sink/faucet/handles on it) along with some new play food and a couple Pair Pear Play Kitchen Sets. I’ve been considering the Stand Mixer Set and maybe some Play Food.
• Holy Card Holder
• Adorable Angora Kitten – A birthday gift last summer that has been a favorite ever since. Her sister ended up getting a similar bunny for her bunny birthday a couple months later!
• Yarka Water Colors Semi-Moist Paint Set
• Portable Drawing Case from Ikea – We picked these up on a recent road trip to Oregon and the girls use them daily.

Joy’s Picks – Age 4

• Play and Pray ABC Puzzle from Saintly Heart – We have had this since it was first released and it’s still frequently enjoyed.
• Nutcracker Pajamas – She and her older sister both had these last winter and they still fit. So cute!
• Calico Critter Pink Family Picnic Van – A birthday gift that she loves. One of the older girls has this red coupe and our six year old will be finding the Blue Family Van under the tree this year! Calico Critters have always been a favorite of all of our girls.
• Coffee Maker Toy Set
• Oremus: Latin Prayers for Young Children – This beautiful and inspiring book was an Easter gift earlier this year. Also available from TAN Books.
• Jellycat Rock-a-Bye Bunny
• Travel Tin Magnetic Dress Up: Bunny and Cat
• Jellycat Lottie Floral Bunny – Can you tell that Bunnies have been her favorite this year? Jellycat also has a lot of really cute Christmas options.
• She has a number of Chews Life Rosaries but I am tempted to order this New Epiphany Rosary– so pretty!

Favorite Wooden Toys

This list doesn’t change much from year to year but links are updated where necessary:

• Fagus Wooden Trucks and Vehicles  – German crafted and made of solid Beechwood. We have been collecting for awhile and have the Limited Edition Red Fire Engine, Jeep, Snow Plow add on, Container Tipper Truck, Front End Loader, Conveyor Belt, and the Excavator, Tractors and Trailers. My little girls love them even more than their older brother did when they were younger! Look for them in the US at The Wooden Wagon, Nova Natural and Bella Luna Toys.
• Grimms Spiel und Holz Wooden Toys – Grimm’s Counting Rainbow (similar to this) with Grimm’s Natural Semicircles Building Set.
• Ostheimer Toys – Collectible hand carved figures made in Germany and finished with non-toxic stains and finished with natural oils. Collections include: Family Figures, Fairy Tale Characters, Farm Animals, Woodland Animals, Zoo Animals, and landscape pieces, such as Trees, Fences, Ponds, Grass and much more!  We have been collecting these for years now. They have gotten hard to come by the past couple years (frequently out of stock everywhere in the US) and have really increased in price, but we still love them.  You can find them in the US at the same stores as the Fagus Vehicles above. (Here are lookalikes from an Etsy shop in the US)
• Interlocking Blocks – I keep a basket of these (2 or 3 sets of 92) in a basket in our living room and they are played with daily! I’ve blogged more about these here.
• Saint Blocks from Almond Rod Toys 
• Thomas the Train Wooden Train Track, Buildings and Trains –
• Melissa & Doug Medieval Folding Castle – We bought this over ten years ago and it’s still a favorite. We have (and LOVE the Princess Castle too- it was the first one I purchased of the two) but unfortunately it’s not currently available. Also, wood toys have at least doubled in price… Back then I paid around $50 for each! They have been played with by all of our children and are still getting played with frequently! We also have the Fold and Go Wooden Dollhouse.
• Wooden Peg Dolls – Perfect for painting dolls as gifts for younger siblings! 😉
• Grapat Sorting Toys – I bought a couple of these for Easter Baskets and planning to add more in this year’s stockings and next year’s Easter Baskets. Our little girls love them!  They are also great for using along with their Fagus Dump Truck, Trailers and Conveyor Belt.

Gift Ideas for Catholic Women

• Reading Journal – I’ve been enjoying this so much! (And finally making time to read more too!)
• I’ve had Searching for and Maintaining Peace and Trustful Surrender to Divine Providence perpetually on my nightstand for years now. This past year I have also been frequently reading Interior Freedom at the suggestion of one of my brother-in-laws. So good.
• Next on my “To-Read” list: Parents of the Saints – this looks so good! Also available from TAN Books.
• Little Way Floral Tea Towel – So pretty! I love the whole Little Way Collection over at January Jane Shop!
• Beautiful Crucifix – This one is very similar (mine is 27″) to the one my husband purchased from a local bookstore for my birthday a couple years ago! I love it so much. I already really love the Santini Crucifix we bought when we were newly married and has been hanging over our bed ever since.
• Telos Art Shop Jewelry – This Sacred Heart necklace was included in my 2020 list.
• Dining with the Saints – This new release looks fun!
• Nativity Garden Plaque – Considering ordering this as a gift for my mom this Christmas.
• Chiltern Classic Hardcovers – Chiltern Publishing creates the most beautiful editions of the World’s finest literature.

Here’s a peek at what I’m currently reading 💕

Gifts Ideas for Catholic Men

• Chalices – “Having suitable glasses for special occasions will not be a problem with these glass chalices from the monks of Norcia.  Use these to offer a special toast with guests or treat yourself on special occasions.”
• “Don’t forget the beer.“
• Consecration to St. Joseph (Commemorative Edition) – “Every dad needs a copy.  The earlier the better.  Certainly single men discerning engagement should be serious about their future as Catholic men with St. Joseph as their advocate.“
• Also from Fr Calloway, this book is available for pre-order and looks excellent.
• Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0
• Catholic Coffee All Saints Variety Pack (Save 15% till 11/23/23 with coupon EARLYBIRD)
• St. Michael Bronze Finish Statue
• The Imitation of Christ (Deluxe Leatherette Edition with Zipper) – “Want to see your father or husband spiritually improve each day? Get him to read one chapter a day out of The Imitation of Christ. Lauded by St. Therese of Lisieux as the only other book she needed besides the Sacred Scriptures, the short 1-2 page chapters in this masterpiece will surely bring a conversion of heart and a spiritual renewal so much needed in today’s world. The illustrations alone within the book are worthy of their own meditations.” (Also available from TAN Books)
• I recently asked one of my brother-in-law ‘s to give me some ideas on gifts for priests and he suggested “Gift Cards to Sporting Goods Stores”. That’s definitely a thoughtful and flexible option that caters to diverse hobbies and interests. Whether it’s athletic gear, outdoor equipment, or fitness accessories, gift cards to sporting goods stores offer a choice for priests to enjoy their preferred activities.

Board Games – Family Favorites

Top three this year than have been played a lot: Bang!, Cover Your Assets and Raccoon Tycoon. If you have any favorites I’d love to hear about them! We are always looking for great new games.

• Captain’s favorite (age 23) – Bang! and Catan (he has this edition and pretty much every add on) followed by Settler’s of America
• Ranger’s favorite (age 21) – Cover Your Assets, Catan, Trekking the National Parks, and Ticket to Ride
• Twinkle Toe’s favorite (age 20) – Code Names, Payday, Clue Retro Edition and Monopoly
• Chiquita’s favorite (age 18) – Chameleon, Bang!, Raccoon Tycoon, Clue Retro Edition, Ticket to Ride, Escape from Colditz and Catan
• Snuggles’ favorite (age 16) – Escape from Colditz: 75th Anniversary Edition
• Rose’s favoite (age 13) – What do you Meme?, Ticket to Ride and a Deck of Cards!
• Bud’s favorite (age 11) – Lord of the Rings Monopoly (we have this older edition), WWII Axis & Allies & Lord of the Rings Risk
• Grace’s Favorite (age 6) – Cat Bingo – Last year Bird Bingo was one of her favorites. She requested a “Kitty” birthday party this year so we added Cat Bingo to our collection and it has been another hit.
• Joy’s Favorite (age 4) – Guess Who? The little girls play this together all the time, including our Patron Saint Edition.

Catholic Family Games

• Know Thyself! – Such a fun Apples to Apples style game all about temperaments. (Also available directly from Sophia Institute Press!)
• Catholic Name-it! – Our kids love Spot It NHL. This looks like a great Catholic option! Also available directly from Holy Heroes.
• The Catholic Card Game – We don’t own this one, but it looks like a fun one too!
• Catholic Playing Cards 
• Saint Cards – Enter Promo Code SHOWEROFROSES at beginning of checkout to SAVE 10%
• Crush King Herod
• Cathedral Wood Strategy Game
• Saint Memory Card Game
• Wish List:  Feast Day: The Liturgical Year Board Game from Holy Heroes looks fun!
• Scroll through more Catholic Games over at The Catholic Company

Christmas Puzzles

Our family loves putting together puzzles during Advent and Christmas.  Here are some puzzles that are currently available to purchase: 

• Stained Glass Nativity (1000 Piece)
• The Nativity of Jesus (1000 Piece) from Sophia Institute Press
• Evening Nativity (550 Piece)
• Good Will To All (500 Piece) – This 300 Piece Version is pretty too.
• Midnight Mass (1000 Piece)
• Church in the Snow (1000 Piece)
• Stained Glass Holy Night (1000 Piece)
• The Presentation of Jesus (1000 Piece) from Sophia Institute Press
• 12 Days of Christmas Wreath 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

Advent & Christmas Music

• Advent at Ephesus from Benedictines of Mary, as well as Legends of St. Nicholas and Adventus 
• Rorate Coeli: Marian Sounds of Advent CD from Clear Creek Abbey
• Catholic Songs for Children – includes: Gather Round the Crib at Christmas and The Best Christmas Present of All
• Sancta Nox – Christmas Masses from Bavaria
• Caroling at Ephesus from Benedictines of Mary
• Christmas at Ephesus from Benedictines of Mary
• Christmas in Harvard Square
• In Nativitate Domini – Gregorian Chants for the Four Masses of Christmas
• Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring: Christmas with The Dominican Sisters of Mary

*We also love the Christmas music from Celtic Thunder, Michael Buble, Bing Crosby and so many others! I’d love to hear your favorites!

2024 Catholic Calendars and Planners

• AGNUS DEI CALENDAR & 12-MONTH PLANNER 2024 from TAN Books – This looks great!
• 2024 Saints Calendar and 16 Month Daily Planner from TAN Books (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form -My husband and I have used this for longer than I can remember.) Also on Amazon here.
• 2024 JMJ 12-MONTH DAILY PLANNER from TAN Books – I haven’t seen this in person yet, but it looks like one my husband would really like!
• Fiat Traditional Catholic Planner (Extraordinary Form) – Back and better than ever!
• 2024 The Life of Our Lord Calendar from TAN Books (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form) – Also on Amazon here.
• The Illustrated Liturgical Year Calendar Subscription – Receive four 18×24 fully colored and illustrated liturgical calendar posters each quarter! – Our family has been using these since they first came out and they are amazing!
• Sleightholm Folk Art 2024 Calendar – I have always loved Heather’s beautiful art.
• 2024 Catholic Calendar from Saints Galore (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form) 
• 2023-2024 Catholic Homeschool Planner: Traditional & New Liturgical Homeschool Planner from Elizabeth Clare. I’ve been using her Simply Catholic Planner this year (2023) and have loved it! (You can see it pictured in my post on Our Curriculum + How we Homeschool High School.) Also pictured below is my Rose Floral Clipboard – great to have for all my long to do lists!

Here are the links to all of our book lists, our 2023 Advent Book Basket and the list of books our children will receive this year on the feast of St. Nicholas.

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Shower of Roses Christmas Giveaway

This year I’m giving away 30 PRIZES with a combined value of $3,200!

(There will be 30 winners – one for each prize.  You have more than one way to earn entries so you could possibly win more than one prize! Thank you so much to all these generous businesses for sponsoring the annual Shower of Roses Christmas Gift Guide Giveaway! Please consider supporting their businesses with your Christmas Shopping this year.) 

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Catholic Art by Caitlin McCarthy

Prize #01 – A beautiful 8×10 oil painting of the Blessed Mother with 24 kt gold leaf mounted in an ornate frame by Caitlin McCarthy. Caitlin is 15 this year and a freshman. She can be found sketching or painting in her free time and her favorite subjects are the Blessed Mother, other saints, religious themes, and children having adventures. Sponsored by Live, Love & Sacred Art  ($467 Value)

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Come Holy Spirit Rosaries & Gifts

Prize #02 – Catholic Chaplet of the Month, 3 month subscription sponsored by Come Holy Spirit Rosaries & Gifts ($256.00 Value)

Catholic Chaplet of the Month is an exclusive opportunity to explore our rich and diverse Catholic faith. Each month you will receive a handmade, solid bronze chaplet with a curated prayer card and storage pouch, plus special access to directions on praying with your chaplet, history of the devotion, reflections, and many other resources to assist you in your spiritual enrichment.

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Saint Cards

Prize #03 – Special SaintCards Bundle! Includes: SaintCards: Base Game, Deluxe Blue Game Mat, SaintCards: Duel Expansion, and the Mendicant Orders Expansion w/Purple Game Mat! Total of: 212 SaintCards, 2 Deluxe Game Mats, 2 Jesus Cards, and 100 Treasures! Sponsored by SaintCards ($175.00 Value)

Enter Promo Code SHOWEROFROSES at beginning of checkout to SAVE 10%

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Shining Light Dolls

Prize #04 – Includes: Double-sided Advent to Christmas Wooden Wreath Set, Our Lady of Guadalupe Wooden Prayer Candle, Our Lady of Guadalupe Rag Doll, Nativity Cookie Cutters & Stamps Set, Christmas Nativity Wooden Cube Puzzle, and Nativity Holy Family Rag Doll Set sponsored by Shining Light Dolls ($159.90 Value)

Save 10% with code SHOWEROFROSESBLOG

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Pelican Printery House

Prize #05 – Calligraphy and Illustration of St. Therese of Lisieux, unframed. 7″ x 9″ Watercolor and Japanese Sumi inks on Bristol Board. Calligraphed quote of St. Therese: “We must sweeten our minds by charitable thoughts.” Something nice to hang in the homeschool room, children’s bedroom, home altar, kitchen, etc. 🙂 sponsored by Pelican Printery House ($150 Value)

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Telos Art Shop

Prize #06 – Free subscription to our 2024 Quarterly Subscription Box! Each quarter a new item will arrive in the mail with a unique piece of jewelry and a special note behind the inspiration of each piece. Centered around the liturgical seasons, boxes will be sent within each quarter (April-May, July-September, October-December) with a theme related to a special feast day or celebration. By the end of 2024 recipients will receive four handmade gifts. Sponsored by Telos Art Shop ($150.00 Value)

Save 10% with Coupon Code ROSES

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Elizabeth Clare Shop

Prize #07 – 2024 Wall Calendar, 2024 Catholic Planner, Stations of the Cross Flip Book, Rosary Flipbook, Planner sticker sampler sponsored by Elizabeth Clare Shop ($140.00 Value)

Coupon Code:  “ROSES20” for 20% Etsy store through December 15, 2023

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My Little Patron

Prize #08 – My Little Patron has created a special Immaculate Heart of Mary Rosary with pearl pink 10mm Ave beads and large blue resin heart Pater beads paired with a large 5×7 holy card, Our Lady of the Rosary wooden rosary hanger, saint stickers, printed saint bunting, a bundle of all the new printables made this year: Marian Bunting & Holy Cards, Jesus Bunting & Holy Cards, Set 4 Saint Holy Cards, School Holy Cards & Prayer Posters, Saints Bunting, and the Traditional Rosary Guide printable. Sponsored by My Little Patron ($121.00 Value)

Enjoy the code ROSES30 for 30% off printables from Etsy

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Prayer Pillowcases

Prize #09 – Shower your loved ones with prayerful gifts this Christmas! Joseph and Leane Ambrosio of Prayer Pillowcases are giving away this Family Advent + Gift Bundle specially chosen to nurture the faith in your family! Prayer Pillowcases are lovingly designed to bring Catholic art and prayer to families in practical way – who doesn’t use a pillowcase? 😊 Their designs for all ages can be personalized too. 

The Family Advent + Gift Bundle of 7 pillowcases includes two Holy Family designs, including a Child’s Prayer for Advent, for joyful additions to your Christmas traditions. Looking for lasting stocking stuffers? Just roll and tie with a ribbon! You receive the essential prayer to St. Michael the Archangel, Our Lady of Good Counsel with the Hail Holy Queen, Mother Teresa’s Peace Quote, and the Circle of Friends Saints, one for boys and one for girls. Sponsored by PrayerPillowcases.com ($104.00 Value)

When you buy 3 you’ll get one free with code: LoveRoses

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Rycraft Cookie Stamps

Prize #10 – Set of 8 Cookie Stamps with Recipe Booklet (Includes: #416 – Snow Star, #463 – Christmas Ornament, #020 – Frosty, #355 – Trumpeting Angel, #023 – Holly Sprig (1), #030 – Christmas Tree, # 368 – Nativity and #271 – Jolly Santa) sponsored by Rycraft Cookie Stamps ($103.92 Value)

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Saintly Heart

Prize #11 – Church Playset, the new Jonah and the Whale Bath Set, and the new Paint and Pray Canvas Paint Kit sponsored by Saintly Heart ($100.00 Value)

Use Coupon Code Roses15 for 15% off Regular Price Items

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Almond Rod Toys

Prize #12 – New! Solemnity BIG Block Set (7 Blocks) – These blocks are about 50% larger than AlmondRod’s well-known and loved Saint Blocks. The newly designed and versatile set can be played with at a little prayer altar, or displayed above a fireplace. Check out the combinations these blocks can be used for during Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, the Annunciation, and the Feast of St Joseph. This is the first of four Solemnity BIG Block Sets that AlmondRod will be introducing in the coming liturgical year to help you celebrate every single Solemnity!  sponsored by Almond Rod Toys ($98.00 Value)

Use code ADOREMUS for 15% off www.AlmondRodToys.com through December 14th

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Haley Stewart

Prize #13 – Four books by Catholic author Haley Stewart including The Sister Seraphina Mysteries: The Pursuit of the Pilfered Cheese, The Curious Christmas Trail and The Strange Sound by the Sea, as well as a copy of Jane Austen’s Genius Guide to Life: On Love, Friendship, and Becoming the Person God Created You to Be. ($91.80 Value)

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The Rose Picker

Prize #14 – Miraculous Medal Jasper Rosary, wire wrapped, from The Rose Picker ($85.97 Value)

Save 10% off everything using code CHRISTMAS10 until 12/31/23

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Sophia Institute Press

Prize #15 – Include Fiat Traditional Catholic Planner , The Illustrated Liturgical Year Coloring Book Volume I : (Christmas Cycle 2023-2024) sponsored by Sophia Institute Press ($80.89 Value)

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Faith Beads

Prize #16 – St. Hubert Rosary sponsored by Faith Beads ($80 Value)

Coupon Code SHOWEROFROSES23 for 15% off thru Dec 15^th

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Annunciation Designs

Prize #17 – 12-month subscription to The Wanderlust Catholic!  The winner will receive a full year of adventures and pilgrimages through snail-mail letters featuring fictional pilgrim Bona Therese.  Explore the treasures of our faith in this beautiful, engaging journey. Sponsored by Annunciation Designs ($72.00 Value)

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Ignatius Press

Prize #18 – Includes the first three books in the In the Shadows of Rome series along with the first three books in The Loupio Series. Sponsored by Ignatius Press ($65.94 Value)

 Currently offering Buy one get one 50% off on certain series and these series are both included! Discount will be reflected in cart.

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The Purgative Way

Prize #19 – The Purgative Way Board Game sponsored by The Purgative Way ($64.99 Value)

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Catholic Family Crate

Prize #20 – Pray by Sticker, Mass Ring, Alleluia Card Games, Rosary Ring and Marian Edition: Catholic Playing Cards sponsored by Catholic Family Crate ($64.00 Value)

Catholic Family Crate makes Catholic educational resources, games, art, stickers, subscription boxes, and more to make growing in the Catholic faith easy and fun. They are on a mission to revolutionize Catholic resources and make them affordable, accessible, high-quality, and engaging.

Bonus: Check out the following links for a FREE 12 Days of Christmas Planner & Activity Pack and a FREE Jesse Tree Activity Pack. 

Discount code: SHOWEROFROSES23 for 20% off for CFC items valid until December 31, 2023, and for 1x use per customer

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St. Augustine Academy Press

Prize #21 – Our Friends in Heaven Trilogy which includes: The Blessed Virgin: Mary Our Mother, Saint Nicholas: Patron Saint of Children, and Saint Francis: The Little Poor Man, as well as a copy of The First Christmas for Our Dear Little Ones sponsored by St. Augustine Academy Press ($63.70 Value)

Save 20% with coupon code GRATIAS2023  – Good from Wednesday, November 22nd through midnight on Monday, November 27th, 2023

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TAN Books

Prize #22 – Agnes Dei Calendar & 12-Month Planner for 2024 and JMJ 12-Month Daily Planner sponsored by TAN Books ($61.90 Value)

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Catholic Author Leslea Wahl

Prize #23 – Catholic author, Leslea Wahl, is giving away signed copies of two of her teen mysteries. Also included in the prize pack is a copy of a short story, one of the CatholicTeenBooks.com anthologies, a wooden puzzle, and a gift bag with ribbon bookmark, Bible verse magnet, and decorative soap. ($60.00 Value)

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Holy Heroes

Prize #24 –  FeastDay! Board Game plus an expansion pack sponsored by Holy Heroes ($58.90 Value)

SAVE 15% off your order with coupon code SHOWER15 through 12/5/23

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St. Mary’s Messenger

Prize #25 – Includes ONE YEAR Subscription for St. Mary’s Messenger Magazine (valued at $19.95), SANCTUS, SANCTUS, SANCTUS An Introductory Latin Missal for Children, TAN Books (valued at $22.95), PRAY by STICKER Catholic KIDS from CATHOLIC FAMILY CRATE (valued at $9.95), 7-DAY Preparation for Family Consecration To Jesus, through Mary, in Union with St. Joseph (valued at $4.99) Apostolate for Family Consecration sponsored by St. Mary’s Messenger ($57.94 Value)

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Catholic Author Patrick O’Hearn

Prize #26 – Autographed hardcover editions of Courtship of the Saints: How the Saints Met Their Spouses and Parents of the Saints: The Hidden Heroes Behind Our Favorite Saints. Available to purchase from TAN Books or Amazon.Sponsored by Catholic author Patrick O’Hearn. Visit the author’s website here! ($55.90 Value)

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Hohme Candle Co.

Prize #27 –  Sacré Cœur Beeswax Candle, Sacred Heart Matches and a Brass Wick Trimmer sponsored by Hohme Candle Co. ($54.25 Value)

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Celestine Publications

Prize #28 – Hardcover edition of The Whisper of Wings and paperback edition of Morning Star. “Our hope is to bring to life the traditions of the Church by immersing young readers in the truths of the Faith, encouraging them to strive to become saints.” Visit the website here and watch the book trailers over at YouTube! Sponsored by Celestine Publications. ($51.96 Value with shipping)

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“Be the Light” Saint Candles – Forestville Candle Company

Prize #29 – Includes: Trimming the Tree with Nicholas and Receiving a Mother’s Love from Our Lady of Guadalupe.  Trimming the Tree is a Pine, Citrus and Spice scent.  Receiving a Mother’s Love is a Rose and Incense scent. Sponsored by Forestville Candle Company ($50.00 Value with shipping)

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Heartwood Coffee Roasters

Prize # 30 – Three bags of Coffee (not necessarily those pictured) sponsored by Catholic owned Heartwood Coffee Roasters in Ohio! ($50+ Value)

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Join the Giveaway: Enter via the Rafflecopter Box Below

Earn numerous bonus entries by exploring the sponsors’ websites and social media! Giveaway concludes at 11:59 PM PST on December 5, 2023. Winners will be revealed on December 6, 2023 – the Feast of St. Nicholas!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Having issues with Rafflecopter? Feel free to reach out via email or message with your name and email address, and I’ll manually add you.

Explore our book lists, our 2023 Advent Book Basket (coming soon – past book baskets), and the selection of books our children will receive this year on the feast of St. Nicholas. Find Advent planning tips in our Archive and The Advent Season in Our Catholic Home.

For additional inspiration, check out our Gift Guides from 2015 to 2022.