True confession: I am already overwhelmed by the endless pop-ups, holiday open houses, decor options, and Christmas stimulation. And here’s the dilemma—as Kelly Terrell Art, I need to hustle and sell ornaments and potential gifts. But as Kelly Terrell, I just want to wear cozy clothes, craft handmade gifts, and decorate gingerbread houses all day long, by a fire, sipping on warm beverages. IS THAT TOO MUCH TO ASK?!
But let’s shift that mindset. We’re not going to self-sabotage all the blood, sweat, and tears I’ve poured into this magical studio and community. Instead of rushing to buy one more thing to fill the season, let’s celebrate what we already have. Let’s appreciate the mundane, slow down, and recharge. (Too far? Too soon? Okay, I’ll save that hibernation talk for January…)
Balancing It All: My Blood, Sweat, and Tears
As much as I love the holiday magic, “blood, sweat, and tears” applies to all of my roles: Kelly, the wife, the mom, the friend, and of course, Kelly Terrell Art. So, how do I avoid excess, especially in a season that’s overflowing with distractions?
Celebrate the progress: Recognize all the blood, sweat, and tears you've put into everything. Then, really up the normal, everyday moments that came from them. Sometimes, the "boring" stuff is the best stuff.
Focus: I know, I know—this one's a tough one. With shiny distractions everywhere, it’s easy to get off track. My goal is to stay focused on the “why” and the purpose of what matters this season. Who does this benefit? What is the purpose? Why do I feel this way?
Have fun: Here’s my rule: choose joy and humor. For all the times I’ve been late, messed up, or miscalculated, it’s always ended up okay. So this year, I’m prioritizing fun, silliness, and laughter. The holidays aren’t about perfection or cramming it all in. My kids care about three things for the next month: no school (yay!), treats, and presents. We can layer in the “reason for the season” thoughtfully, but let’s keep that conversation going after the chaos of December 25th.
The Ship I’m Steering
I’m the captain of this ship. But let’s be real: this ship is made out of cardboard, shaped like a gingerbread ornament, with Christmas vinyls in the background. There’s hot chocolate that’s not a sugar bomb, too many Christmas movies, and craft supplies scattered everywhere.
But seriously, what does this have to do with my ornaments, print kits, and custom artwork from Kelly Terrell Art?
If you’re like me, you want to create magic for your kids, but also be present enough to savor those sweet, quiet moments. When you’re gazing at that KTA 6x6 canvas with your child’s print on it, sipping tea while the chaos of childhood swirls around you after daylight savings time, that’s where the magic lives. This is the stuff that brings focus and perspective.
Focus on the memories and the real magic of the season. Let your purchases support the actual magic. You don’t need to give your kids everything. Instead, give them something meaningful. Choose something that supports an artist and a real person—like me—and keeps the holiday spirit alive with hand-painted ornaments and keepsakes that will last forever.
Buy the Ornament, Have Some Fun!
Choose fun—your kind of fun or what’s actually fun for your kids. And guess what? You deserve that. So yes, buy the damn ornament (I just cursed at you, didn’t I?). You can buy it now or in January (because, spoiler alert: I will put whatever year you need, Mama). So no worries about the perfect holiday timing, just a perfect, meaningful gift.
Not into ornaments? That’s totally fine! We have small canvas prints too! But, for the record, I won’t curse at you twice in one post.
Supporting Kelly Terrell Art & Making Memories Together
Let’s make this holiday season about creating beautiful moments, slowing down, and making memories that will last. Whether you’re picking out one of my hand-painted ceramic ornaments or a custom print, it’s all about the meaning behind what we gift to each other.
Check out my Amazon Storefront for some great supplies to help you get crafty with your kids this season. And, as always, don’t forget to explore my studio offerings for the perfect, personalized gifts that tell a story and make every holiday moment shine.
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