A Christmas Carol  

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens is the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy old miser who pretty much hates everything about Christmas. He’s mean to his hardworking clerk, Bob Cratchit, and can't be bothered with his cheerful nephew, Fred, who keeps inviting him to Christmas dinner.

On Christmas Eve, things get spooky when Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his old business partner, Jacob Marley. Marley warns Scrooge that if he doesn’t change his selfish ways, he’s headed for a pretty miserable afterlife. To really drive the point home, Marley says Scrooge will be visited by three ghosts that night.

Three Ghosts 

First up is the Ghost of Christmas Past, who takes Scrooge on a trip down memory lane. Scrooge sees moments from his younger days—some happy, some painful—that show how he lost his way and became so cold-hearted. Then the Ghost of Christmas Present arrives and shows him how people are celebrating right now, including the Cratchit family, who, despite their struggles, are full of love and happiness. Scrooge is especially moved by Bob's frail son, Tiny Tim. Finally, the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come shows Scrooge a dark future, where he dies alone and Tiny Tim doesn’t make it either. 

It's a Miracle

Waking up on Christmas morning, Scrooge is a new man! He's filled with holiday cheer, ready to spread joy and kindness. He surprises everyone by being super generous, helping out the Cratchit family, and even making sure Tiny Tim gets the care he needs. Scrooge becomes the life of the party and a beloved figure in the community, showing us all that it’s never too late to turn things around.

With its message of kindness, generosity, and second chances, A Christmas Carol is a feel-good classic that keeps inspiring people year after year!

A Little History

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, written in just six weeks and self-published in 1843, became an instant hit and has never been out of print since. Inspired by Dickens' concern for the poor and based partly on the stingy real-life figure John Elwes, the novella helped revive Christmas traditions in Victorian England, shaping modern ideas of the holiday. Known for its famous line, “God bless us, every one!” and Scrooge’s iconic “Bah! Humbug!,” the book has been adapted into countless films and plays.

Fun fact: ghost stories were a Christmas tradition in the Victorian era, making the ghosts in the story very on-trend!

Don't have time to read the book? Here is the audio version. 

When shopping for your Christmas gifts, look at handmade first. Handmade Christmas gifts are always in style and add a personal touch to your gift list. 

Here are some spooky ideas for this year's gift giving:

Amber Flower Pendant Necklace and Earrings

Halloween Pennant Dragonfly 

JoanneCarey

Vintage Christmas Gift Tags

Adore by Nat

Handmade Lampwork Glass Beads, Halloween Cool Orange Silver Shiny

Covergirl Beads

Burnt Orange And Black Beaded Bracelet

TheSingingBeader

Halloween White Ghost Charm Earrings

Linorstore Jewelry

Halloween Goth Skull Earrings Pewter Swarovski Handmade Gothic Jewelry

ShadowDesigns 

Austrian Crystal Art Deco Earrings

Magdalene Jewels

Upcycled Clock Pendulum Pendant, Steam Punk Necklace

Beadednecklaceshoppe

Not Every Witch Lives in Salem Halloween T-shirts Adults

Blue Morning Expressions

If you don't see what you're looking for, then ask an artist. I'm sure they will be happy to design something special for your loved one. 

Shop from other collections:

Countdown to Christmas Week 1

When you shop handmade, you help us keep our money in our communities and keep other small businesses moving forward. Thank you for your support! Please share this post with everyone on the internet. :)

Julie and the Hairy Harry Dog.

PS - for those keeping track - this was our 12th Countdown to Christmas! Thank you everyone for all of your help keeping these countdowns rolling.