Do you ever wonder why you remember the holidays so well from childhood? It’s because of all the novelty your senses are feasting on. Novel experiences are anything unique and unexpected that break from the normal everyday routine. At the holidays this means: decorations around the house, scents of seasonal baked goods, unexpected gifts, even a whole different genre of music. I mean, we’re talking about a time of year that has its own form of family dysfunction (if you grew up in the DiSilvestro house you know that’s our own tradition 😅). Everything about the holidays is new and exciting, which is great for neuroplasticity (your brains ability to adapt and rewire itself).
Holiday traditions trigger your brain to release Dopamine, which then improves mood, enhances memory, and increases motivation. These novel experiences also foster curiosity, social interaction, and improve cognitive functioning. Think about the pride Clark Griswold felt at how he was able to transform his house with tacky Christmas lights, or the comfort you feel when you snuggle up to the fire and Christmas tree at the end of the day? All of that is because for a few weeks (or months- no judgment) your home has become somewhere exciting and comforting for you to be. Personally I think that’s how it should feel for you always, but I digress.
Growing up my mom stopped at nothing to turn our home into a festive Christmas village. I still remember her collecting santa statues, Waterford Christmas champagne glasses, and her prized Dickens Village that adorns her mantle every winter. All of this cemented positive associations with this house where my parents still live, and I have loved doing the same in my own house. It’s my personal belief that holiday collectibles are one of the sweetest ways to mark the passage of time- a topic that can veer more bitter than sweet if not handled properly.
Original art also gives you all of these same brain/body benefits, but most of us don’t have the wall space (or cash flow) to be investing in statement pieces year after year. So, as a gift to you all I create a collection of art that is both small in size and price, in the form of hand painted ornaments. Each holiday season brings a different design, so you can add to your collection year after year. I think this is a great way to get kids interested in art, valuing precious things, and looking forward to seeing an investment grow.
This year I really couldn’t stop myself, so I’m releasing 3 different colorways in assorted shapes! All of the ceramic ornaments were purchased at Ruby Clay here in Tulsa, so you’re also supporting another female owned local business. I had no idea where I was going when I started making these, but I had so much fun, and that means they’re charged with all that playful energy.
I think these would be stunning hanging from a tree of course, but I would also love multiple hanging from a mantle or chandelier. I’ve also had people use them to personalize place settings at holiday parties, as additions to centerpieces, and as stocking stuffers for any age. All of these are thoughtful ways to bring cozy novelty into home this year. Your first chance to buy is next Monday, 11/18/24, but my email subscribers get to shop 24 hours early, so be sure to sign up for my newsletter. They will be $35 (free shipping!) and for sale until Friday 11/22/24, or while supplies last.
I hope you love them as much as I do, and they bring some warmth and whimsy to your home.
