The enchantment of Christmas lies not just in twinkling lights or wrapped presents, but in the memories we make and the creativity we unleash. If you've been longing to explore a hidden talent, the warm, nostalgic atmosphere of the holiday season might be the perfect time to let your artistic side shine. With the flurry of decorating, baking, planning festive meals, and organizing family gatherings, it’s easy to overlook personal fulfillment. But in the heart of winter lies an opportunity: to create not only beautiful decor and meaningful gifts but also joyful experiences through the gentle art of acrylic painting.
This Christmas, take a moment to pause, reflect, and paint your way into the season. Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or returning to a long-lost hobby, these cozy, beginner-friendly projects will help you create hand-painted masterpieces filled with heart and imagination. Let’s dive into a curated collection of festive acrylic painting projects designed to inspire holiday magic with every stroke.
Pebble Tree Charms: Festive Rock Painting
The enchantment of the holiday season is not solely found in shimmering lights or grand feasts—it often lies in the subtle, hands-on acts of creativity that spark warmth and personal meaning. Among the most unexpectedly magical crafts is festive rock painting, a humble yet profoundly fulfilling holiday art form. With a few natural stones and a palette of vibrant acrylics, anyone can create beautiful and memorable Christmas decor, gifts, or keepsakes. This guide explores how you can turn everyday pebbles into extraordinary works of holiday art through a meaningful, meditative process that suits all ages and skill levels.
Why Painted Rocks Make Perfect Holiday Crafts
Painted pebbles bring an unmistakable rustic charm to Christmas festivities. Unlike store-bought decorations that often lack personality, these handmade treasures radiate individuality. Each stone carries its own organic shape and texture, making every creation entirely unique. The variations in form encourage imaginative designs, whether it's a quirky snowman, a whimsical elf, a sleepy bear in a scarf, or a minimalist tree under snow.
Moreover, painted stones can be used in an astonishing variety of ways. Hang them on your Christmas tree, display them in decorative bowls, scatter them on festive tablescapes, tuck them into stockings, or even attach them as tags on wrapped gifts. Their versatility, durability, and handcrafted appeal make them ideal for creative holiday expressions.
Acrylic paints adhere strongly to stone surfaces, allowing you to build layers, blend colors, and define intricate patterns. Unlike watercolors, they don’t fade or rub off easily, making your painted rocks long-lasting and resistant to handling. You can even seal them with a non-toxic varnish for added longevity, especially if they're going to be handled often or placed outdoors.
How to Begin Your Festive Rock Painting Journey
Starting your pebble painting adventure requires little more than a handful of supplies, a dash of patience, and a sprinkle of holiday inspiration. Collect smooth, flat pebbles—ideally palm-sized—for an easy painting surface. River stones are perfect due to their polished texture. You can gather them from nature (if permitted) or find them at local craft stores or garden centers.
You’ll need:
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Acrylic paints in festive shades such as crimson, pine green, snow white, gold, and icy blue
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A variety of paintbrushes—fine tips for detailing, wider tips for background coverage
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A water cup, palette, and cloth or paper towels for cleanup
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Optional extras like metallic paints, glitter acrylics, or faux snow effects
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Twine, ribbon, or wire loops if you plan to hang your rocks
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A sealant for preserving your design
Begin by washing and drying your stones thoroughly to remove dust or residue. A quick base coat of white acrylic helps the colors pop, especially if you're painting on darker rocks. Let each layer dry before adding the next—acrylics dry quickly, allowing you to work efficiently even on multiple stones at once.
Creative Christmas Designs for Painted Pebbles
The sky is the limit when it comes to choosing festive designs. Here are some inspiring ideas to help you unleash your holiday creativity:
1. Winter Animals – Create scenes of sleepy foxes curled up in scarves, penguins juggling snowballs, or reindeer prancing under stars. These bring warmth and personality to any holiday setting.
2. Snow Scenes – Paint serene winter landscapes with pine trees, cabins, and snow-covered hills under twinkling skies. You can even experiment with perspective and shading for depth.
3. Holiday Characters – From Santa’s jolly face to grumpy Christmas gnomes and nutcracker soldiers, beloved holiday figures come to life with a few well-placed brushstrokes.
4. Festive Symbols – Simple motifs like bells, ornaments, candy canes, stars, and holly make great designs for beginners. Try geometric patterns or folk-inspired styles for extra charm.
5. Word Art – Paint single words like “Joy,” “Peace,” or “Hope” using stylized lettering. These are perfect for spiritual messages or elegant table displays.
6. Abstract Holiday Themes – Use holiday colors and patterns—like red plaid, Nordic snowflakes, or metallic swirls—to create non-figurative but festive designs.
With a steady hand and a touch of imagination, you can even combine styles: a reindeer peeking through a snow-covered forest, a snowman with patterned mittens, or a candle glowing against a stained-glass background.
Turning Your Painted Pebbles into Holiday Decorations
Once your designs are complete and dry, you can convert your painted stones into a variety of functional and decorative pieces. With a bit of creativity, your rock art can serve as far more than just eye candy.
Tree Ornaments – Glue a loop of twine or ribbon to the back of the pebble using strong adhesive. These can be hung as rustic ornaments on both large trees and miniature displays.
Centerpieces – Arrange several themed stones in a shallow bowl with pinecones, cinnamon sticks, and evergreen branches for a striking holiday centerpiece.
Mantel Décor – Place a row of painted rocks along the fireplace mantle, alternating between word art and seasonal imagery for a festive touch.
Gift Embellishments – Tie a small pebble onto ribbon-wrapped gifts as a meaningful, reusable tag that doubles as a keepsake.
Advent Countdown – Number 25 stones, each with a different design or message, and display one each day leading up to Christmas.
The adaptability of painted rocks makes them not just decorative, but also storytelling pieces, capable of weaving emotion and creativity into your holiday environment.
A Craft for Everyone: Family-Friendly Holiday Fun
Rock painting is a joyously inclusive activity that transcends age, skill level, and artistic experience. Children love it because it’s tactile and imaginative, and adults appreciate it for its calming, almost meditative quality. It offers a perfect opportunity for families to spend quality time together during the holiday season.
Whether you're gathered around the table on a snowy afternoon or planning a weekend craft day, everyone can participate. Assign themes or characters, challenge each other to paint a winter scene, or collaborate on a shared collection that tells a holiday story across multiple stones. For younger children, simple designs like polka-dot ornaments or cartoon characters can keep them engaged. For more experienced artists, detailed compositions and textured effects offer a creative challenge.
Beyond personal enjoyment, painted rocks can also be a vehicle for giving. Consider organizing a small rock-painting fundraiser, charity gift drive, or neighborhood art swap. These small, tangible pieces of joy have a surprising ability to touch hearts and spread cheer.
Tips for Crafting Exceptional Rock Art
To elevate your festive pebble art, consider the following techniques and insights:
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Sketch Lightly First: Lightly outline your design with a pencil or washable chalk to guide your brushstrokes. This is especially helpful for lettering or symmetrical elements.
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Layer Thoughtfully: Start with background elements and work your way to the foreground. Allow each layer to dry fully to avoid smudging.
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Use a Toothpick or Fine Pen: For tiny details—like snowflakes, facial expressions, or outlines—use toothpicks or acrylic paint pens designed for precision.
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Blend and Shade: For realism or softness, gently blend paints while wet. A sponge can help create foggy skies, frosted windows, or snowy textures.
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Seal Smartly: Once complete, apply a clear acrylic sealer or varnish to protect the colors and preserve your designs. Choose matte or gloss finish depending on your desired effect.
Painting rocks is a tactile, richly visual process that encourages both focus and creative play. Take your time, let your instincts guide you, and don’t be afraid of imperfection—it’s often where the most charm lies.
The Lasting Joy of Handmade Holiday Traditions
At its core, festive rock painting is more than just crafting. It’s a modern tradition rooted in self-expression, mindfulness, and human connection. These tiny, weighty tokens of creativity carry stories, laughter, and intention—all the things that make the holiday season special.
Amidst commercial excess and digital overload, there’s something beautifully grounding about holding a painted stone in your hand—feeling its texture, remembering the moment you made it, and knowing it will be part of someone’s holiday memory. Over time, these painted treasures become heirlooms, symbols of joy passed from one season to the next.
So, this year, let your hands create something enduring. Gather your paints, find your pebbles, and let the magic of the season flow through your brush. The result won’t just be decoration—it will be a little piece of your holiday spirit made visible.
Enchanted Forest Discs: Painting on Wooden Slices
The magic of winter doesn’t always come from glimmering lights or high-tech decor. Sometimes, it’s hidden in the simplest of things—like the soft grain of a tree slice transformed into a festive piece of art. Wooden slice painting is an age-old creative practice reborn in modern holiday crafts. It carries with it the warmth of handmade traditions, the charm of rustic natural materials, and the joy of creating something truly one-of-a-kind. Painting on wood slices not only satisfies the creative soul but also offers endless possibilities for meaningful holiday decoration.
Unlike synthetic ornaments, wood slices have a natural texture and character that breathe life into your artwork. Each disc—cut from real tree branches—has its own shape, rings, and imperfections that enhance the visual storytelling. Whether you're sketching snowy reindeer trails, cozy cabin silhouettes, or winter botanicals, these natural canvases invite a deeper connection between artist, material, and season.
The Enduring Allure of Wooden Slice Art
Why has wooden slice painting become such a beloved part of holiday crafting? The answer lies in its simplicity, sustainability, and soulful aesthetic. Natural wood provides an organic canvas that resonates with nostalgia and quiet elegance. It adds tactile depth to your decor and evokes the atmosphere of snow-covered forests and woodland serenity.
These wooden discs are often sourced from fallen or trimmed trees, making them an eco-conscious choice. Their surface, while firm, is forgiving—perfect for acrylics, which cling beautifully to their lightly textured grain. Even light brushstrokes can yield vibrant results without sacrificing visibility of the natural lines beneath.
Holiday themes gain an earthy, grounded elegance when painted on wood. Imagine a lantern glowing beneath an evergreen tree, a fox curled up under a starlit sky, or a folk-style snowflake mandala circling the natural core of the disc. These designs aren't just visually appealing—they connect to the spirit of the season in an intimate, tactile way.
Getting Started: Materials and Surface Preparation
Before painting, it’s important to prepare your wooden slices to ensure they’re clean, smooth, and ready for color. Choose discs that are sanded on at least one side, ideally kiln-dried to prevent cracking or warping over time. Sizes typically range from 2 to 6 inches in diameter, making them ideal for ornaments, coasters, or wall hangings.
Essential supplies include:
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Acrylic paint in seasonal hues such as evergreen, crimson, ivory, and metallic gold
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A variety of brushes—fine liners for detail, round brushes for filling shapes, and flat tips for background
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Water, palette, and lint-free cloths for cleaning
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Optional embellishments like mica powder, faux snow paste, or pearl effects
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Hanging materials like jute twine, ribbon, or small hooks
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Clear matte or gloss sealant for finishing and protection
Clean your slices with a dry brush or cloth to remove any dust or debris. For intricate designs, a base coat of white or pastel acrylic helps brighten the image and makes your colors stand out. Let the slice dry thoroughly between each stage to preserve line sharpness and prevent smearing.
Design Ideas to Spark Seasonal Creativity
There’s no limit to what you can paint on a wood slice, especially during the holidays. The round surface lends itself to compact, well-framed compositions. Whether you're into detailed realism or whimsical patterns, there's a festive design to suit every style.
1. Cozy Forest Animals – Paint foxes wearing scarves, owls perched on snow-laden branches, or hedgehogs nestled among holly berries. These woodland creatures add a charming narrative element.
2. Nordic and Scandinavian Motifs – Use symmetrical snowflakes, trees, and reindeer in repeating patterns inspired by traditional winter textile designs. Stick to a muted color palette with pops of red or blue for authenticity.
3. Miniature Landscapes – Tiny cottages with candlelit windows, frozen lakes surrounded by pines, or hilltop churches bathed in moonlight. These scenes transform each slice into a tiny window into a winter world.
4. Holiday Icons – From sleigh bells to stockings, wreaths, or candy canes, these familiar symbols make for easy yet impactful designs. Add shadows and texture to make them pop.
5. Seasonal Quotes – Lettering like “Let it Snow,” “Joy to the World,” or “Noel” can turn your ornament into a meaningful message. Use curved fonts that complement the round shape of the wood.
6. Abstract Color Bursts – If realism isn’t your thing, create swirling designs using holiday colors. Mix white with blue or red with gold to form festive abstract patterns with movement and texture.
7. Personalized Portraits – Sketch silhouettes of loved ones, pets, or initials. These unique pieces become cherished gifts and mementos for years to come.
Crafting Keepsakes: Turning Slices into Holiday Treasures
Once your design is dry and sealed, it’s time to turn your painted disc into something magical. These wooden slices can become versatile pieces of holiday decor or thoughtful handcrafted gifts.
Tree Ornaments – Drill a small hole at the top, thread through twine or velvet ribbon, and you’ve created a classic tree ornament that blends rustic style with personal flair.
Gift Tags – Tie a painted disc to a wrapped present with the recipient’s name or a festive word painted on it. This tag becomes part of the gift, not just an accessory.
Garlands and Mobiles – String together multiple painted slices to create a wall garland or a hanging mobile that can be displayed over the mantel or in a child’s room.
Table Place Cards – Add names to each slice and place them at dining settings. Guests can take them home afterward as a memory of your festive gathering.
Miniature Wall Art – Attach a hook or small easel backing and use the disc as a mini canvas for seasonal wall art. Ideal for hallways, kitchens, or tiered shelves.
Every slice you paint carries a sense of intention and thoughtfulness that cannot be replicated by mass-produced ornaments. The imperfections in the wood add to the story—your story—making these pieces timeless and deeply personal.
Wood Slice Painting for Groups and Families
What makes wood slice painting so popular is its ability to bring people together. Whether during a family crafting day, an evening with friends, or a children’s art workshop, painting wooden discs is a low-pressure, high-reward activity for all ages.
Children can enjoy simpler themes like cartoon snowmen, bold color blocks, or handprints, while teens and adults might explore layering, blending, or detailed brushwork. For groups, consider assigning a collective theme—like each person painting one “day” of the 12 Days of Christmas, or creating alphabet discs that spell out a holiday message.
The act of painting together naturally fosters conversation, laughter, and shared experience. These moments of togetherness become part of the ornament’s story, adding even more sentimental value when you hang it up or gift it to someone special.
If you’re hosting a gathering, provide paints, brushes, pre-sanded slices, and some inspirational design samples. Let everyone unleash their creativity in their own way—there’s no right or wrong here, only joy.
Seal, Store, and Celebrate: Preserving Your Wooden Art
To ensure your wooden discs last for many seasons, it’s essential to seal and store them properly. After painting is complete and the surface has dried for at least 24 hours, apply a clear acrylic sealant or varnish. Choose a matte finish for a rustic look or a glossy coat for shine and vibrancy. Spray sealants work well for even coverage, while brush-on versions offer more control for touch-ups.
If your ornaments will be stored year to year, place them in tissue or cloth to prevent scratches. Store them in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture absorption which can lead to warping or mold.
These finished pieces can then be brought out each winter, each one a time capsule of creativity and spirit. Over time, your collection will grow into a family archive—hand-painted, weathered, and rich with holiday memories.
The Beauty of Holiday Traditions Made by Hand
In a season often filled with noise, excess, and rush, crafting wooden slice ornaments offers a gentle return to quiet joy. It invites reflection, playfulness, and presence. These are not just painted discs; they are fragments of memory, shaped by hand and guided by the rhythm of the season.
There’s a reason wood slice painting continues to resonate: it balances the natural world with human creativity. The wood reminds us of forests, warmth, and roots; the paint adds our imagination, color, and voice. Together, they form not just art, but tradition.
So as the cold winds blow and the snow gathers outside, gather your materials, pour a cup of something warm, and begin your own enchanted forest of painted wonders. The joy is in the process. The beauty is in the detail. And the magic? That’s in your hands.
Mugs Full of Cheer: Personalized Holiday Drinkware
One of the simplest joys of the season is sipping something warm on a snowy day. Turn this daily comfort into a creative venture by customizing your favorite ceramic mugs with festive acrylic designs. Whether you choose merry quotes, frosty snowflakes, cheerful Santa faces, or even abstract snowstorms, painted mugs are as functional as they are artistic.
Make sure to use acrylics formulated for ceramic surfaces. After painting, mugs can be sealed with a heat-setting method (such as baking in the oven, if safe for your paint) to make them resistant to washing. Not only do these personalized drinkware pieces add cheer to your kitchen, but they also make thoughtful, handmade gifts that are perfect for teachers, coworkers, or friends.
For those new to painting on ceramic, start with simple patterns—rows of tiny holly leaves, candy canes, or stars. As your confidence grows, experiment with character illustrations or layered brush techniques for added depth.
Wishes in Every Stroke: Holiday Greeting Card Painting
Hand-painted holiday cards offer a refreshing return to the heartfelt tradition of personal messages. Instead of printed messages and mass-produced designs, these one-of-a-kind creations carry warmth, effort, and originality. Use lightweight acrylics and thick card stock or watercolor paper to create eye-catching illustrations and lettering that burst with seasonal charm.
You can design minimalist wreaths framing messages like “Joy,” “Peace,” or “Noël,” or experiment with snowy landscapes, candle-lit windows, and festive animals. Add touches of metallic paint or subtle sparkles for a magical finish. These cards are as much a keepsake as they are a message, often cherished by recipients and displayed with pride throughout the holidays.
For those intimidated by freehand lettering, lightly sketch designs first or use simple stencils. Acrylic paint is forgiving—you can layer over small mistakes or blend them into your design.
Gifts on Canvas: Holiday Present Painting
If choosing the perfect gift has become overwhelming, consider painting a whimsical canvas filled with imagery of generosity and cheer. A festive scene filled with wrapped gifts, bows, and ribbons stacked under a shimmering tree is not only visually delightful but also symbolic of the spirit of giving. You can take a more playful direction with gift-laden sleighs flying through snowy skies or a family of animals exchanging presents in a winter forest.
Working on canvas allows for larger compositions and the freedom to experiment with techniques like blending backgrounds, layering details, or creating texture with palette knives. You can use sponges for soft snowy effects or dry brushes for a rustic touch.
Such paintings can be framed and presented as one-of-a-kind gifts or used to adorn walls during holiday gatherings, adding instant atmosphere and personal flair. Even abstract interpretations using holiday colors and patterns can become meaningful centerpieces.
Silent Snowy Night: A Peaceful Christmas Scene
Nothing captures the serene magic of Christmas quite like a quiet winter night blanketed in snow. This classic theme invites you to paint calming, dreamlike landscapes—starlit skies, gentle snowfall, candlelit cottages, and celestial figures. It's perfect for creating art that evokes the spiritual and reflective nature of the season.
Begin with a moody twilight background, blending shades of indigo, navy, and pale lilac. Use thin brushes to create distant pine trees, rooftops covered in snow, or a luminous North Star guiding your scene. These paintings often rely on minimalism and atmosphere, so pay attention to light, shadow, and subtle gradients.
Ideal for more introspective painters, these scenes offer a chance to slow down and appreciate the stillness of winter. A painting like this can become a powerful piece of seasonal decor or a treasured gift for someone who values the quiet moments of the holidays.
Creative Tips for Holiday Acrylic Painting Success
While these festive painting ideas are easy to approach, a few helpful techniques can elevate your final results:
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Layer light over dark: Acrylics dry fast and are excellent for layering. Start with darker base colors and work your way to highlights for dimension.
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Use quality brushes: Synthetic brushes with firm bristles are best for acrylics. Keep a variety of sizes on hand for detailing and broad strokes.
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Keep your palette moist: Use a damp paper towel under your paints to extend their usability and avoid quick drying.
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Sketch before you paint: Light pencil outlines or chalk can help you plan your composition before committing paint to surface.
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Embrace imperfections: Holiday art doesn’t need to be perfect—it should be joyful, expressive, and full of character.
Why Acrylic Painting Is Perfect for the Holidays
Acrylic paint is versatile, fast-drying, and vibrant, making it the ideal medium for holiday projects. Unlike oil paints, they don’t require long curing times or special ventilation. They also adhere well to a variety of surfaces including canvas, wood, paper, ceramic, and stone, making them perfect for crafting unique seasonal decor.
Another bonus? Acrylics are generally beginner-friendly. You can thin them with water, build texture with gels, and clean up easily with soap and water. Whether you’re painting a canvas, mug, or wood ornament, acrylics offer control and flexibility, even for first-timers.
A Meaningful Holiday Activity for All Ages
These painting projects aren’t just solo endeavors—they’re opportunities to connect. Host a painting night with friends, plan a creative day with your kids, or take quiet time alone to reflect through art. The holiday season often becomes a whirlwind, but painting allows you to slow down, focus, and find fulfillment in every brushstroke.
There’s something magical about making something by hand. It tells a story, carries intention, and can outlast store-bought items by years. Whether you’re painting ornaments, home décor, or custom gifts, the joy is in the process—and in the smiles your creations bring.
Final Thoughts:
As the final flakes of snow settle and the hum of holiday cheer fills the air, there is no better time than now to tap into your creative essence. Acrylic painting offers more than a craft—it’s a doorway to self-expression, tranquility, and connection. Amid the busyness of shopping lists, cooking marathons, and social gatherings, dedicating even a small moment to artistic creation can feel like a breath of calm in the heart of winter.
The act of painting is not merely about creating a finished product. It’s about the quiet joy of mixing colors, the tactile pleasure of brush on canvas, and the thrill of watching your vision take shape before your eyes. Each brushstroke holds the potential to tell a story, preserve a memory, or share a sentiment in a way that no mass-produced item can. And during the holidays, when so much revolves around connection and thoughtfulness, handmade art becomes even more powerful.
These festive acrylic projects—ranging from painted mugs to snowy canvases—are not just accessible to beginners, they’re also deeply personal. Every painted pebble, wooden disc, or holiday card carries the warmth of your time, your effort, and your heart. This alone makes your creations priceless. Whether you're painting alone for peace or sharing the process with children, friends, or grandparents, the experience itself becomes a treasured holiday memory.
In our increasingly digital, fast-paced world, creating something by hand serves as a quiet rebellion—a return to simplicity, intention, and mindfulness. There is something soul-nourishing in stepping away from screens, slowing down, and focusing entirely on a canvas, a cup, or even a stone.
So this Christmas, choose creativity. Choose meaning over materialism, joy over perfection, and heart over haste. Let this season mark the beginning of a new tradition—where painting becomes a cherished part of your celebrations, year after year. Let your art carry forward your emotions, dreams, and holiday wishes. Most of all, allow yourself the space to enjoy the process, embrace imperfections, and discover that inside you lies more creativity than you ever imagined.
Because the best gifts are not always found under the tree—they’re often found in the moments we create and the joy we share.
