Archives for December 3, 2024

My Favorite Christmas Ornaments

It’s that time of year! Have you already bought your tree and decorated for the upcoming holiday? I am starting but have not finished. I plan to get our tree this week! If you are looking for ornaments, Old World Christmas has you covered! I love the variety they have! Here are my favorites this year:

My favorite is the Octopus Ornament! I learned all about them this past year and maybe the book Remarkably Bright Creatures had something to do with that. I loved the book! It is one of the first exhibits I head to when I go to the Aquarium of the Pacific. So, I was excited to receive this ornament!

 The octopus is a shy animal and will change color when frightened. It is also the most intelligent of the invertebrates. The octopus has a good memory and uses it to make judgements based on experience. It is a quick learner and good problem solver.

The ornament is simply beautiful! You can find it here.

The next ornament is the Green Sea Turtle Ornament.

Just soo cute!

Having traveled the seas for over 100 million years, sea turtles have essentially remained unchanged. They survived beyond the extinction of the dinosaurs and are still present in the world’s oceans today. All sea turtles are on the endangered or threatened species lists. This is a must for any ocean lover! You can find it here.

Now, I am a big fan of yoga. I try to do yoga at least 2-3 times a week. (More when I can) So, I love the yoga mat ornament!

Yoga!

Yoga Mat Ornament

 For centuries yoga has been practiced on grass, hard dirt, or tiger skins; it wasn’t until recently that yogis began to use specific mats. Today they prevent slipping in yoga studios. Mats also provide much deserved comfort during Shavasana (laying flat on your back) at the end of your Hatha practice.

You can find it here.

Have fun decorating!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this holiday feature. Images were also provided.

Family Events and Workshops at Getty Locations

Thracian Animal Medallion: Family Workshop

Saturday, December 7 and 14, 2024, at 11 am

Saturday, January 11 and 18, 2025, at 11 am

The Getty Villa

Make your own animal medallion inspired by real and mythological creatures of ancient Thrace. Discover metalsmithing techniques like repoussé and chasing (the art of making impressions in metal) in this free drop-in workshop. This program complements the exhibition Ancient Thrace and the Classical World: Treasures from Bulgaria, Romania, and Greece.

Artist-at-Work: Ancient Arms and Armor

Saturday, December 7 and 14, 2024, at 11 am

The Getty Villa

Join master blacksmith Tony Swatton as he demonstrates materials and techniques used in making arms and armor of ancient Thrace, from basic metal shaping to fine surface decoration. This is a free, drop-in program and complements the exhibition Ancient Thrace and the Classical World: Treasures from Bulgaria, Romania, and Greece.

Cosmic Connections: Family Workshop

Sunday, December 8 and 15, 2024, at 11 am

The Getty Center

In the Middle Ages, scientists calculated the position of the stars and planets using tools like volvelles (wheel charts) and mechanical astrolabes. Learn more about these fascinating instruments and create a volvelle to discover your medieval zodiac sign, related planet, constellation, and more. This free, drop-in program complements two of Getty’s PST ART exhibitions—Rising Signs: The Medieval Science of Astrology and Lumen: The Art and Science of Light.

The Art and Science of Falconry

Sunday, December 8 and 15, 2024, at 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm

The Getty Center

Learn about the history and practice of hawking and falconry, one of medieval nobility’s favorite pastimes, and meet live birds of prey. Tallon Knight, a master falconer for 30 years, shares stories of these remarkable birds along with other educators from Falcons’ Court. Presentations are followed by meet and greet with birds.

Rainbow Vision: Family Workshop

Sunday, January 12 and 26, 2025 at 11am

Sunday, February 2 and 23, 2025 at 11am

The Getty Center

Make a spectroscope and bend white light into the seven different colors of the rainbow while exploring the art and science of prisms, light diffraction, and the visible color spectrum.

Credit: The Getty Center.