Discovery Series Ornament – Wisconsin

The Discovery Series Ornament Wisconsin is a release for the Badger State, known for its lakes, farming roots, and strong sense of community.

Wisconsin became the 30th state on May 29, 1848, after decades as a territory attracting immigrants from Germany, Scandinavia, and Poland who established farms and communities. The state’s name derives from a Native American word meaning “gathering of the waters,” reflecting its abundant rivers and lakes. Wisconsin’s economy flourished through dairy farming, brewing, and manufacturing, earning the nickname “America’s Dairyland” as cheese and milk production became synonymous with the state.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – The Hamptons

This popular summer destination on Long Island, famous for its beaches and seasonal crowd, has never had a mini mug from Starbucks. This is why I was especially excited to pick up this Discovery Series Ornament The Hamptons, earlier this year!

The Hamptons encompass a collection of villages and hamlets on the eastern end of Long Island, New York, with settlement dating back to the 1640s when English colonists established farming and whaling communities. Originally known as Southampton, East Hampton, and surrounding areas, these towns remained agricultural and fishing communities for centuries before transformation began in the late 1800s when wealthy New Yorkers discovered the pristine beaches.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Oklahoma

For some reason, the buffalo image is my favourite detail in the design of the Discovery Series Ornament Oklahoma.

Oklahoma became the 46th state on November 16, 1907, following a unique history as “Indian Territory” where the federal government forcibly relocated dozens of Native American tribes during the 1830s-1850s. The Land Run of 1889 opened former Indian lands to white settlement, with tens of thousands of settlers racing to claim plots in a chaotic scramble that gave Oklahoma its “Sooner” nickname.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Arkansas

The Discovery Series Ornament – Arkansas is an espresso mug for the State where rolling hills, crystal-clear rivers, and Southern charm come together in the Natural State.

Arkansas became the 25th state on June 15, 1836, with a name derived from a French interpretation of a Quapaw Indian word meaning “land of downriver people.” The territory’s early economy relied on cotton plantations in the fertile Delta region and later timber harvesting in the mountainous north. Arkansas remained primarily rural and agricultural through much of its history, though the discovery of bauxite and the development of aluminum production during World War II brought industrialization.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Toronto

The Discovery Series Ornament Toronto was one of the first mini mugs from this series that I got. I have time to finally post it here.

Toronto is one of Canada’s most dynamic cities, shaped by Indigenous heritage, British colonial roots, and waves of immigration that helped turn it into a global cultural and economic center. Originally known as York in the late 18th century, the city grew rapidly with the expansion of railways, industry, and trade along Lake Ontario. Today, Toronto stands as Canada’s largest city, known for its skyline, neighborhoods, and strong connection to sports, food, and outdoor life along the waterfront.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Sarawak

The Been There Ornament Sarawak is the last known Malaysian mini mug from this collection. I am lucky I was able to collect them all thanks to my friend!

The design of the Been There Ornament Sarawak reflects the rich cultural history and natural heritage of Malaysia’s largest state, shaped by centuries of indigenous traditions, trade along river routes, and colonial influence. Sarawak’s past is closely tied to the Brooke era, when it was ruled by the White Rajahs in the 19th century, leaving behind distinctive architecture and institutions that still define the region today.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Los Angeles

Discovery Series Ornament Los Angeles is an espresso mug from California.

Los Angeles began as a small Spanish settlement founded in 1781 under the name El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles. Over time, it grew through Mexican rule, became part of the United States in the mid-19th century, and rapidly expanded with the arrival of railroads, oil discoveries, and the motion picture industry. Today, Los Angeles stands as a global city where entertainment, coastal living, and cultural diversity intersect, all of which are reflected in the symbols and scenes illustrated on the mug.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Alberta

Discovery Series Ornament Alberta is the first-ever mini mug for this Canadian Province.

Alberta joined the Canadian Confederation on September 1, 1905, as one of two provinces (along with Saskatchewan) carved from the Northwest Territories. The region was shaped by Indigenous peoples, including the Blackfoot, Cree, and Métis, before the arrival of European fur traders in the 18th century. The completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885 opened Alberta to settlement, while the discovery of oil at Leduc in 1947 transformed the province from an agricultural economy into Canada’s energy powerhouse.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Palm Springs

Discovery Series Ornament Palm Springs is a mini mug for a city that didn’t have one before!

Palm Springs transformed from a desert oasis inhabited by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians into a glamorous resort destination in the early 20th century. Hollywood stars discovered the area in the 1930s, making it their playground just two hours from Los Angeles, while the clean desert air attracted those seeking relief from respiratory ailments. The city’s golden age in the 1950s and 1960s saw architectural innovation through mid-century modern design that still defines its aesthetic today.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Bangkok

Another gift from a friend has joined my collection. The Been There Ornament Bangkok comes in a separate box, which seems to be in line with other releases from Thailand.

Bangkok’s story begins in the late 18th century, when King Rama I established it as the capital of Siam in 1782 after the fall of Ayutthaya. What started as a riverside settlement along the Chao Phraya River quickly grew into the political, cultural, and spiritual heart of the country. Over time, canals, royal compounds, and temples shaped the city’s layout, earning Bangkok a reputation as a place where tradition and daily life are deeply intertwined.… Read more

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