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Last Saturday evening as darkness fell, Diwali celebrations of light began in India and in many other countries around the world. Diwali is India's biggest and one of the most important holidays of the year. The festival gets its name from the rows (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes and throughout their villages and cities to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness. This festival is as important to Hindus as the Christmas holiday is to Christians.

Our friends at Sustainable Threads reminded us that there are many countries and cultures that celebrate festivals of lights during the holidays - Hanukkah (the Jewish tradition), Tihar in Nepal, Loi Krathong (a Buddhist holiday in Thailand), Kwanzaa (an African American celebration of African culture and roots), Winter Solstice (celebrated world wide), and, of course Christmas.

In their words, "These winter lights [of Diwali] represent symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil [and] express people's hopes for peace, understanding and possibilities.

May it be so.

Kapula Candles from Thumbprint Artifacts are a lovely way to add winter light to your holiday celebrations. From life-long friends and co-owners, Becky and Kris - "As every thumbprint is unique, so are the inspirational [fair trade] artisan products that we provide - each hand crafted item is its own piece of art!" Kapula Candles are inspired by the beautiful and colorful landscape of South Africa.

Each hand-made, white, dripless candle is hand-painted by artisans so every one is unique. Even the two candles packaged in the pair will have different details. Click here to see the variety we have and choose some today.

Cashmere-soft ponchos from Dolma are back in stock. These are so light in weight and yet SO soft to drape on. A customer called the other day to order a second color. She loves layering hers on at home during the morning chill in her house and feels like she was carrying around a hug!

To shop the current luscious colors, click here. Ponchos in a lovely deep pink and royal blue are arriving soon. What happy colors to add to someone's day!

Solmate socks and more! Wool-blend socks are the newest addition to the "life is too short for matching socks" Solmate line. They are perfect for padding around the house on a chilly day or tucking into boots for a crisp winter walk. All of the Solmate products are full of color, love, warmth and character. Everything is locally-crafted at their own mill in Hickory, North Carolina and hand-finished to last a lifetime. Sustainably sourced. American made. Crafted with love.

To see all our current Solmate knits, click here.

Oil drum sculptural art from Haiti! Working with over 100 metal artisans, Beyond Borders continues to provide us with ever-changing, amazing designs that can be hung both outside and inside homes. We told the fascinating story of this oil drum art in our "Around the World" series. Click here to re-visit Haiti and these artists. To see and shop these and other sculptures online, click here.

Mara mugs - a smile to hold in your hands. Yes, we smile whenever we unpack a shipment of Mara mugs. The bold, distinctive designs on these larger ceramic mugs are so fun you'll want to keep yours out on the counter as an art piece. We "visited" central Mexico on Day 73 or our "journey" so click here if you would like to read about the artist who designed and continues to inspire these whimsical mugs. Check out our Mara mugs by clicking here. Yes, of course, we can pack and ship these anywhere in the United States.

About those nativities! This is THE year for decorating and gifting nativities. Our front window that just 10 days ago was filled with nativities of all sizes has drawn more interest earlier in the season than ever before. Many people are preparing for holidays without the traditional large gatherings or family trips. They are decorating early with holiday items that bring a sense of well-being, familiarity and tradition. If you're thinking of adding a nativity into your own space or sending them as gifts, come soon!! Here's the link to see them.

  www.worldswindowkc.store

PLEASE NOTE - our store is now open 7 days a week. We anticipate being busy and want us all to be safe in our holiday shopping together. Morning hours tend to be very quiet, so are an excellent time to shop. So far we are also very quiet from 5 to 6 pm. We will continue to require masks in all areas of our store, including dressing rooms, and we continue to re-steam clothing that has been tried on. We have hand sanitizer available in numerous locations around our store. By being ever aware of courteous and safe distancing, we can celebrate the season together. And remember our online store is "open" 24 hours a day.

Brookside is making preparations to celebrate Small Business Saturday on November 28th. More details coming next week and also check BrooksideKC on Facebook and Instagram, and brooksidekc.org for continuing updates.