When I was a teenager, I loved decorating at Christmas. I used to go into The Pink Sleigh, a local Christmas shop in Westbrook, CT, to find ornaments and votive candles and little gifts. One year, they had stocked a selection of various sizes of the Swarovski Crystal chandelier dangles that are shaped like snowflakes.
It was love at first sight. I bought several of the 20mm size and put a heavy, red thread through the hole so I could hang them, either in a window to catch the light, or on the Christmas tree. Then I took one to school to give as a “secret santa” gift to a cute girl. I don’t recall if I ever told the girl who it was from, but I bought and gifted more of the snowflakes over the next couple of years, including a 30mm one I gave to a girlfriend in my senior year. She was “charmed”, obviously 😉
Later Swarovski came out with actual snowflake ornaments, which were so popular they turned into an annual edition. The ornaments were much, much more expensive than the little chandelier charms, so I never bought one, though I still have my eye one a couple of lovely ones.
However, a few years ago, when I saw that Swarovski was offering ballpoint pens with tiny crystal gems inside, I couldn’t long resist having one, just for fun and to carry a little bit of Christmas around all year. I was also happy to find that they are a good quality writing instrument, with glossy chrome and barrel, and a good hefty feel. The experience is a bit like a nice Cross pen, comfortable to write with for a stretch of time.
Recently I found this version of the same basic pen, but it rose gold with a swan charm dangling on the end. I think it is adorable and looks like it is packed with snow crystals. I think, for under sixty bucks on Amazon, it would be a great gift for Mom. Just a little hint of a reminder 🙂
I think pens make great gifts, especially when matched well to the recipient. What do you think?