The International Blogger Kris Kringle with Marks & Spencer

Well, it's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas.

With the Christmas tree up, presents wrapped and holiday decorations giving our house a cheery festive ambience, it most certainly feels like December is upon us once again (even if it did creep up even faster on us this year!). It's such a special time, where windows are frosted and snowflakes are hung, despite the weather only heating up more and more as we enjoy the beginning of the Australian summer.

I've always been fascinated by how people from around the world celebrate the festive season. While we enjoy fresh seafood under our blazing summer sun, others are getting cosy in front of fireplaces, enjoying their fare share of ham and turkey, half a world away. Despite our differences in season, whether it's summer or winter, we're all surrounded by our loved ones.

So, in the spirit of Christmas, I am thrilled to be apart of this years' International Blogger Kris Kringle with Marks & Spencer. I'm feel so honoured to belong to such a supportive blogging community where we're able to connect with and inspire one another, no matter how far away. 

While Christmas is less than a few weeks away (how did that happen?!), today I opened my very own Kris Kringle gift from across the world; the fabulous Marks & Spencer wool fedora hat (thank you so very much Laurie!). I must say, these bloggers sure do have fantastic taste! Funny that.

And now it's time for me to go finish my own Christmas shopping (alas, I wish I was more organised again this year - oops!). Thank goodness for online shopping. Who's with me?!

Are you doing a Kris Kringle or Secret Santa this festive season?

Featured: Marks & Spencer fedora hat, gift bags, Santa Paws mug, wool socks, Christmas tree decorations and Christmas cards.

Photography by Brad Jarman.

Article in collaboration with Shopping Links and Marks & Spencer.