We didn’t discover we’re expecting twins—there’s definitely only one little baby on the way (we actually learned the sex the day before Christmas Eve and will be sharing that soon). What we did find, though, were two unexpected and truly delightful holiday surprises waiting in our PO Box when we checked it one last time before heading to John’s family on the 24th.
The first package was a small box from a thoughtful reader who left a note saying she enjoys our blog and knows about my fondness for ceramic animals. I could hardly contain my excitement as I opened it, wondering which new ceramic piece would be joining my collection. Imagine my delight when I found a small white ceramic peacock inside a beautifully minimal snow globe. It was exactly the kind of refined, modern home decor piece I’d been eyeing for months at West Elm, so receiving it unexpectedly from sweet Katie in Texas felt like a real holiday miracle. The peacock’s clean lines and elegant white finish are perfect for our living room; it instantly added a touch of sculptural charm to our side table.
After a little faux “snowstorm” display setup, she looked right at home on the side table. I love pieces that are simple yet striking, and this ceramic bird fits that description flawlessly—an understated decorative accent that simultaneously feels modern and timeless. It’s amazing how a single small object can refresh a corner of a room and bring a smile every time you pass by.
We were especially happy to receive a decor-related gift because many of the presents we got from family were baby items, so home-decor gifts were scarce under our tree this year. That’s why this thoughtful ceramic peacock was such a welcome surprise: it gave us something to share in a holiday home post and added a little flourish to our living room aesthetic.
The second surprise was a large flat envelope with a lovely card from another reader named Steph—also from Texas, which was a fun coincidence. Her note wished us a happy holiday and mentioned she enjoys following our home projects. Inside the envelope was a custom piece of art: a portrait of our dog, Burger. We were floored. The illustration captured Burger’s expression perfectly and is such a warm, personal piece of pet art to add to our collection.
We’ve always loved surrounding ourselves with meaningful mementos and portraits of the people (and pets) that make our house feel like a home, and this portrait fits right in with that tradition. It’s realistic yet artistically rendered, and it’s impossible not to smile when you look at it. The gift was generous, thoughtful, and exactly the sort of custom home decor that makes a space feel lived-in and loved.
Between the elegant ceramic peacock and the custom Burger portrait, these reader gifts turned out to be two of the most memorable holiday surprises we received. Their kindness reminded us how connected we feel to our readers—many of whom we consider friends—and how much joy thoughtful home decor and personalized art can bring during the holidays. We’ve already sent two heartfelt thank-you notes in the mail to Katie and Steph.
Have you received any home-related gifts this holiday season? Maybe a decorative piece that refreshed a room, a custom artwork that made you tear up, or an unexpected surprise that brightened your day? Or did you get something completely wild, like a new car or a novelty blanket? We’d love to hear about any memorable home decor gifts, creative surprises, or thoughtful gestures you experienced over the holidays.