Keepsake Artist Kristina Gaughran is well known and loved for her adorable Playful Penguins. They’re always up for adventure, and this ornament finds them on an icy Ferris wheel that lights up and plays music from “Toyland” as the wheel turns.

Kristina Gaughran

There’s a lot of complexity behind this magical Ferris wheel. “I worked with one of our wonderful engineers on this one,” Kristina says. “She definitely had the hardest part! I can come up with an idea, but the engineer really makes all the magic work. So, while she focused on that, I added my penguins and a whole lot of wintery details.”

“If you’re not familiar with these playful pals, they do have a back story,” Kristina says. “They have distinct personalities and names. They love to have fun, and two of them are pretty bold and daring. Wade is more adventurous, outgoing, caring and kind. He likes to take his friends on imaginative adventures. Waddles always has a smile. He’s very carefree, silly and happy—and always ready for excitement! And Wendel is like me. He loves to have fun but gets nervous easily. He’s the introvert of the group, but if there are snacks—he’s 100 percent in!

“So, Wendel isn’t so sure about being up too high on the Ferris wheel because he gets a little anxious. I kept that in mind as I designed this and wanted it to feel more like a little kids’ Ferris wheel to give Wendel a moment of being brave! He’s finding his courage and having fun.”

There are a lot more adventures in store for these precious penguins, but all Kristina can share right now is that “you can be sure there will be lots of fun, and lots of ice and snow!”

Playful Penguins

Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments. “Behind the scenes with Kristina Gaughran about her Playful Penguins ornament (available now)!” Keepsake Ornament Club Facebook Page, November 29, 2023. https://www.facebook.com/groups/KOCMembers/posts/3539554672951198