by Mary Jo
Many great historic houses are now museums, national treasures that are open to the public. I've enjoyed visiting many of them in the UK and US. They are often run by foundations and "Friends of" groups and volunteers. And they need to pay the bills to keep the lights on and the tours running, which means tickets and gift shops (which are often full of delightful and pricey merchandise.)
A good way to keep people coming is by designing 
elaborate shows and decorations, particularly at Christmas. A couple of weeks ago we visited Longwood Gardens, a du Pont estate just west of the Delaware state line in Pennsylvania.
The grounds and conservatory are magnificent, and for a few more days splendid with holiday decorations. Above left is the hall entrance to the main conservatory, with pillars and flamboyant chandeliers.
I'm posting some of my favorite pictures here. I love the scarlet and green plant ball hanging in a hallway of misty greenery, below. And I've never seen poinsettias in the golden shade at the right.
There are many other such gorgeous places. My sister and a friend had lunch at Greenbrier, a legendary estate in North Carolina, and she said it was wonderful.
Several years ago we visited Winterthur, another legendary du Pont estate in Delaware. (We passed it on the way to Longwood Gardens–they're not far apart.) It's the fifth 
largest house in America and has a major collection of Americana. I liked the splendid table setting just awaiting the guests.
Have you visited any such holiday presentations? If so, where? And do you have a favorite historic house that you visit?
Mary Jo, who loves showing pretty pictures of houses for Christmastide!
There are many Tudor ‘black and white’ buildings in the UK and a favorite of mine is Lower Brockhampton Manor in Worcestershire. It has a moat and is set in a large farmed estate now run by the National Trust. I visited on New Years Day and admired the traditional Christmas decorations though I think it is seen at its best in summer when the garden is blooming. Walking through the old manor I couldn’t help admiring the oak timber construction with the timber pegs visible everywhere …. amazing how these structures survive over the centuries!
https://www.google.co.uk/search?client=firefox-b&dcr=0&tbm=isch&q=lower+brockhampton+manor&chips=q:lower+brockhampton+manor,online_chips:manor+worcestershire&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi_3–e8rjYAhUiDsAKHUHODyIQ4lYIKSgB&biw=1149&bih=607&dpr=1
There are many Tudor ‘black and white’ buildings in the UK and a favorite of mine is Lower Brockhampton Manor in Worcestershire. It has a moat and is set in a large farmed estate now run by the National Trust. I visited on New Years Day and admired the traditional Christmas decorations though I think it is seen at its best in summer when the garden is blooming. Walking through the old manor I couldn’t help admiring the oak timber construction with the timber pegs visible everywhere …. amazing how these structures survive over the centuries!
https://www.google.co.uk/search?client=firefox-b&dcr=0&tbm=isch&q=lower+brockhampton+manor&chips=q:lower+brockhampton+manor,online_chips:manor+worcestershire&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi_3–e8rjYAhUiDsAKHUHODyIQ4lYIKSgB&biw=1149&bih=607&dpr=1
There are many Tudor ‘black and white’ buildings in the UK and a favorite of mine is Lower Brockhampton Manor in Worcestershire. It has a moat and is set in a large farmed estate now run by the National Trust. I visited on New Years Day and admired the traditional Christmas decorations though I think it is seen at its best in summer when the garden is blooming. Walking through the old manor I couldn’t help admiring the oak timber construction with the timber pegs visible everywhere …. amazing how these structures survive over the centuries!
https://www.google.co.uk/search?client=firefox-b&dcr=0&tbm=isch&q=lower+brockhampton+manor&chips=q:lower+brockhampton+manor,online_chips:manor+worcestershire&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi_3–e8rjYAhUiDsAKHUHODyIQ4lYIKSgB&biw=1149&bih=607&dpr=1
There are many Tudor ‘black and white’ buildings in the UK and a favorite of mine is Lower Brockhampton Manor in Worcestershire. It has a moat and is set in a large farmed estate now run by the National Trust. I visited on New Years Day and admired the traditional Christmas decorations though I think it is seen at its best in summer when the garden is blooming. Walking through the old manor I couldn’t help admiring the oak timber construction with the timber pegs visible everywhere …. amazing how these structures survive over the centuries!
https://www.google.co.uk/search?client=firefox-b&dcr=0&tbm=isch&q=lower+brockhampton+manor&chips=q:lower+brockhampton+manor,online_chips:manor+worcestershire&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi_3–e8rjYAhUiDsAKHUHODyIQ4lYIKSgB&biw=1149&bih=607&dpr=1
There are many Tudor ‘black and white’ buildings in the UK and a favorite of mine is Lower Brockhampton Manor in Worcestershire. It has a moat and is set in a large farmed estate now run by the National Trust. I visited on New Years Day and admired the traditional Christmas decorations though I think it is seen at its best in summer when the garden is blooming. Walking through the old manor I couldn’t help admiring the oak timber construction with the timber pegs visible everywhere …. amazing how these structures survive over the centuries!
https://www.google.co.uk/search?client=firefox-b&dcr=0&tbm=isch&q=lower+brockhampton+manor&chips=q:lower+brockhampton+manor,online_chips:manor+worcestershire&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi_3–e8rjYAhUiDsAKHUHODyIQ4lYIKSgB&biw=1149&bih=607&dpr=1
It has been so long since I posted here that I feel as if I should introduce myself. I spent most of December in the deadline den working on a freelance project that I finished just hours before midnight on the 31st. I’m happy to be online again.
Biltmore House, the George Vanderbilt estate in Ashville, NC, is gorgeous all year long, but it is truly spectacular at Christmas. http://www.biltmore.com/events/candlelight-christmas-evenings-1
But I must admit I prefer a house that is closer to home and an humble place when compared to Biltmore: Hills & Dales, the home of industrialist Fuller E. Callaway. The gardens are an attraction year round, but the house is at its loveliest at Christmas.
http://www.hillsanddales.org/featured-events/holidays-hills-dales/
It has been so long since I posted here that I feel as if I should introduce myself. I spent most of December in the deadline den working on a freelance project that I finished just hours before midnight on the 31st. I’m happy to be online again.
Biltmore House, the George Vanderbilt estate in Ashville, NC, is gorgeous all year long, but it is truly spectacular at Christmas. http://www.biltmore.com/events/candlelight-christmas-evenings-1
But I must admit I prefer a house that is closer to home and an humble place when compared to Biltmore: Hills & Dales, the home of industrialist Fuller E. Callaway. The gardens are an attraction year round, but the house is at its loveliest at Christmas.
http://www.hillsanddales.org/featured-events/holidays-hills-dales/
It has been so long since I posted here that I feel as if I should introduce myself. I spent most of December in the deadline den working on a freelance project that I finished just hours before midnight on the 31st. I’m happy to be online again.
Biltmore House, the George Vanderbilt estate in Ashville, NC, is gorgeous all year long, but it is truly spectacular at Christmas. http://www.biltmore.com/events/candlelight-christmas-evenings-1
But I must admit I prefer a house that is closer to home and an humble place when compared to Biltmore: Hills & Dales, the home of industrialist Fuller E. Callaway. The gardens are an attraction year round, but the house is at its loveliest at Christmas.
http://www.hillsanddales.org/featured-events/holidays-hills-dales/
It has been so long since I posted here that I feel as if I should introduce myself. I spent most of December in the deadline den working on a freelance project that I finished just hours before midnight on the 31st. I’m happy to be online again.
Biltmore House, the George Vanderbilt estate in Ashville, NC, is gorgeous all year long, but it is truly spectacular at Christmas. http://www.biltmore.com/events/candlelight-christmas-evenings-1
But I must admit I prefer a house that is closer to home and an humble place when compared to Biltmore: Hills & Dales, the home of industrialist Fuller E. Callaway. The gardens are an attraction year round, but the house is at its loveliest at Christmas.
http://www.hillsanddales.org/featured-events/holidays-hills-dales/
It has been so long since I posted here that I feel as if I should introduce myself. I spent most of December in the deadline den working on a freelance project that I finished just hours before midnight on the 31st. I’m happy to be online again.
Biltmore House, the George Vanderbilt estate in Ashville, NC, is gorgeous all year long, but it is truly spectacular at Christmas. http://www.biltmore.com/events/candlelight-christmas-evenings-1
But I must admit I prefer a house that is closer to home and an humble place when compared to Biltmore: Hills & Dales, the home of industrialist Fuller E. Callaway. The gardens are an attraction year round, but the house is at its loveliest at Christmas.
http://www.hillsanddales.org/featured-events/holidays-hills-dales/
I’ve no suggestions but will thank you for sharing those lovely photos!
I’ve no suggestions but will thank you for sharing those lovely photos!
I’ve no suggestions but will thank you for sharing those lovely photos!
I’ve no suggestions but will thank you for sharing those lovely photos!
I’ve no suggestions but will thank you for sharing those lovely photos!
I love Longwood any time of the year, but especially at Christmas when not only are the plants spectacular, but the Christmas lights turn the entire campus into a fairyland!
(Hope you were able to sample some of their wild mushroom soup – perfect for cold winter days!)
I love Longwood any time of the year, but especially at Christmas when not only are the plants spectacular, but the Christmas lights turn the entire campus into a fairyland!
(Hope you were able to sample some of their wild mushroom soup – perfect for cold winter days!)
I love Longwood any time of the year, but especially at Christmas when not only are the plants spectacular, but the Christmas lights turn the entire campus into a fairyland!
(Hope you were able to sample some of their wild mushroom soup – perfect for cold winter days!)
I love Longwood any time of the year, but especially at Christmas when not only are the plants spectacular, but the Christmas lights turn the entire campus into a fairyland!
(Hope you were able to sample some of their wild mushroom soup – perfect for cold winter days!)
I love Longwood any time of the year, but especially at Christmas when not only are the plants spectacular, but the Christmas lights turn the entire campus into a fairyland!
(Hope you were able to sample some of their wild mushroom soup – perfect for cold winter days!)
I have seen Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore, but only in the summer.
Only 35 miles south of here, in our state capital, the governor’s mansion is open for tours. And they have special decorations each Christmas season. Unfortunately, I have never been there, at any season.
It’s partly the result of being “local”; we alway assume that if it’s nearby we wil “get to it’s next time. But it;s also the result of a stronger pull. When we moved to Columbia nearly 29 years ago, 2 of my 3 grandchildren lived in Jefferson City. Now one of them, his wife, and two of my five great grandchildren live. there.
I love history and old buildings, but my “children” will alway win out over other attractions.
I have seen Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore, but only in the summer.
Only 35 miles south of here, in our state capital, the governor’s mansion is open for tours. And they have special decorations each Christmas season. Unfortunately, I have never been there, at any season.
It’s partly the result of being “local”; we alway assume that if it’s nearby we wil “get to it’s next time. But it;s also the result of a stronger pull. When we moved to Columbia nearly 29 years ago, 2 of my 3 grandchildren lived in Jefferson City. Now one of them, his wife, and two of my five great grandchildren live. there.
I love history and old buildings, but my “children” will alway win out over other attractions.
I have seen Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore, but only in the summer.
Only 35 miles south of here, in our state capital, the governor’s mansion is open for tours. And they have special decorations each Christmas season. Unfortunately, I have never been there, at any season.
It’s partly the result of being “local”; we alway assume that if it’s nearby we wil “get to it’s next time. But it;s also the result of a stronger pull. When we moved to Columbia nearly 29 years ago, 2 of my 3 grandchildren lived in Jefferson City. Now one of them, his wife, and two of my five great grandchildren live. there.
I love history and old buildings, but my “children” will alway win out over other attractions.
I have seen Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore, but only in the summer.
Only 35 miles south of here, in our state capital, the governor’s mansion is open for tours. And they have special decorations each Christmas season. Unfortunately, I have never been there, at any season.
It’s partly the result of being “local”; we alway assume that if it’s nearby we wil “get to it’s next time. But it;s also the result of a stronger pull. When we moved to Columbia nearly 29 years ago, 2 of my 3 grandchildren lived in Jefferson City. Now one of them, his wife, and two of my five great grandchildren live. there.
I love history and old buildings, but my “children” will alway win out over other attractions.
I have seen Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore, but only in the summer.
Only 35 miles south of here, in our state capital, the governor’s mansion is open for tours. And they have special decorations each Christmas season. Unfortunately, I have never been there, at any season.
It’s partly the result of being “local”; we alway assume that if it’s nearby we wil “get to it’s next time. But it;s also the result of a stronger pull. When we moved to Columbia nearly 29 years ago, 2 of my 3 grandchildren lived in Jefferson City. Now one of them, his wife, and two of my five great grandchildren live. there.
I love history and old buildings, but my “children” will alway win out over other attractions.
Quantum, thanks for the links! I’ve always loved that style of magpie architecture. As you say, just studying the way the wood is joined is fascinating. I’ve not been to Lower Brockhampton Manor, but I’m adding it to my bucket list. *G*
Quantum, thanks for the links! I’ve always loved that style of magpie architecture. As you say, just studying the way the wood is joined is fascinating. I’ve not been to Lower Brockhampton Manor, but I’m adding it to my bucket list. *G*
Quantum, thanks for the links! I’ve always loved that style of magpie architecture. As you say, just studying the way the wood is joined is fascinating. I’ve not been to Lower Brockhampton Manor, but I’m adding it to my bucket list. *G*
Quantum, thanks for the links! I’ve always loved that style of magpie architecture. As you say, just studying the way the wood is joined is fascinating. I’ve not been to Lower Brockhampton Manor, but I’m adding it to my bucket list. *G*
Quantum, thanks for the links! I’ve always loved that style of magpie architecture. As you say, just studying the way the wood is joined is fascinating. I’ve not been to Lower Brockhampton Manor, but I’m adding it to my bucket list. *G*
No need to introduce yourself, Janga! I’ve heard that the Biltmore is amazing and rather overpowering. I’d not heard of Hills and Dales, but it looks beautiful, and more human scale.
No need to introduce yourself, Janga! I’ve heard that the Biltmore is amazing and rather overpowering. I’d not heard of Hills and Dales, but it looks beautiful, and more human scale.
No need to introduce yourself, Janga! I’ve heard that the Biltmore is amazing and rather overpowering. I’d not heard of Hills and Dales, but it looks beautiful, and more human scale.
No need to introduce yourself, Janga! I’ve heard that the Biltmore is amazing and rather overpowering. I’d not heard of Hills and Dales, but it looks beautiful, and more human scale.
No need to introduce yourself, Janga! I’ve heard that the Biltmore is amazing and rather overpowering. I’d not heard of Hills and Dales, but it looks beautiful, and more human scale.
You’re welcome, Kareni. The challenge is always to whittle the number of pictures I took to manageable size for a blog. *G*
You’re welcome, Kareni. The challenge is always to whittle the number of pictures I took to manageable size for a blog. *G*
You’re welcome, Kareni. The challenge is always to whittle the number of pictures I took to manageable size for a blog. *G*
You’re welcome, Kareni. The challenge is always to whittle the number of pictures I took to manageable size for a blog. *G*
You’re welcome, Kareni. The challenge is always to whittle the number of pictures I took to manageable size for a blog. *G*
Linda, we didn’t stay late enough to see the lights, unfortunately. The picture are AMAZING. But we had a wonderful lunch in the fine dining room, and the soup was perhaps the best wild mushroom soup I’ve ever had. (I finished off the Mayhem Consultant’s bowl–couldn’t stand to waste any of it!)
Linda, we didn’t stay late enough to see the lights, unfortunately. The picture are AMAZING. But we had a wonderful lunch in the fine dining room, and the soup was perhaps the best wild mushroom soup I’ve ever had. (I finished off the Mayhem Consultant’s bowl–couldn’t stand to waste any of it!)
Linda, we didn’t stay late enough to see the lights, unfortunately. The picture are AMAZING. But we had a wonderful lunch in the fine dining room, and the soup was perhaps the best wild mushroom soup I’ve ever had. (I finished off the Mayhem Consultant’s bowl–couldn’t stand to waste any of it!)
Linda, we didn’t stay late enough to see the lights, unfortunately. The picture are AMAZING. But we had a wonderful lunch in the fine dining room, and the soup was perhaps the best wild mushroom soup I’ve ever had. (I finished off the Mayhem Consultant’s bowl–couldn’t stand to waste any of it!)
Linda, we didn’t stay late enough to see the lights, unfortunately. The picture are AMAZING. But we had a wonderful lunch in the fine dining room, and the soup was perhaps the best wild mushroom soup I’ve ever had. (I finished off the Mayhem Consultant’s bowl–couldn’t stand to waste any of it!)
I totally understand that the offspring will win out over marble and statues, Sue! At least you’ve visited Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore. (I haven’t made it to the Biltmore yet. Maybe some day.)
I totally understand that the offspring will win out over marble and statues, Sue! At least you’ve visited Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore. (I haven’t made it to the Biltmore yet. Maybe some day.)
I totally understand that the offspring will win out over marble and statues, Sue! At least you’ve visited Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore. (I haven’t made it to the Biltmore yet. Maybe some day.)
I totally understand that the offspring will win out over marble and statues, Sue! At least you’ve visited Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore. (I haven’t made it to the Biltmore yet. Maybe some day.)
I totally understand that the offspring will win out over marble and statues, Sue! At least you’ve visited Longwood, Winterthur, and Biltmore. (I haven’t made it to the Biltmore yet. Maybe some day.)
Congratulations on meeting your deadline, Janga. And welcome back to the outside world, or at least the on-line one. Of course you don’t need to introduce yourself. LOL We wenches don’t forget our friends so easily.
Congratulations on meeting your deadline, Janga. And welcome back to the outside world, or at least the on-line one. Of course you don’t need to introduce yourself. LOL We wenches don’t forget our friends so easily.
Congratulations on meeting your deadline, Janga. And welcome back to the outside world, or at least the on-line one. Of course you don’t need to introduce yourself. LOL We wenches don’t forget our friends so easily.
Congratulations on meeting your deadline, Janga. And welcome back to the outside world, or at least the on-line one. Of course you don’t need to introduce yourself. LOL We wenches don’t forget our friends so easily.
Congratulations on meeting your deadline, Janga. And welcome back to the outside world, or at least the on-line one. Of course you don’t need to introduce yourself. LOL We wenches don’t forget our friends so easily.
So envious, Mary Jo! Visiting historic houses when they are “dressed” for Christmas is one of my favourite things. I particularly loved your pictures and description of Winterthur but they all looked gorgeous and made me want to visit.
This year I went to Basildon Park to admire their Christmas decorations, to Dickens House in London, which was all set up for a Victorian Christmas party, and Lydiard Park, which is one of my all time favourites. I go there every year and it’s very atmospheric.
So envious, Mary Jo! Visiting historic houses when they are “dressed” for Christmas is one of my favourite things. I particularly loved your pictures and description of Winterthur but they all looked gorgeous and made me want to visit.
This year I went to Basildon Park to admire their Christmas decorations, to Dickens House in London, which was all set up for a Victorian Christmas party, and Lydiard Park, which is one of my all time favourites. I go there every year and it’s very atmospheric.
So envious, Mary Jo! Visiting historic houses when they are “dressed” for Christmas is one of my favourite things. I particularly loved your pictures and description of Winterthur but they all looked gorgeous and made me want to visit.
This year I went to Basildon Park to admire their Christmas decorations, to Dickens House in London, which was all set up for a Victorian Christmas party, and Lydiard Park, which is one of my all time favourites. I go there every year and it’s very atmospheric.
So envious, Mary Jo! Visiting historic houses when they are “dressed” for Christmas is one of my favourite things. I particularly loved your pictures and description of Winterthur but they all looked gorgeous and made me want to visit.
This year I went to Basildon Park to admire their Christmas decorations, to Dickens House in London, which was all set up for a Victorian Christmas party, and Lydiard Park, which is one of my all time favourites. I go there every year and it’s very atmospheric.
So envious, Mary Jo! Visiting historic houses when they are “dressed” for Christmas is one of my favourite things. I particularly loved your pictures and description of Winterthur but they all looked gorgeous and made me want to visit.
This year I went to Basildon Park to admire their Christmas decorations, to Dickens House in London, which was all set up for a Victorian Christmas party, and Lydiard Park, which is one of my all time favourites. I go there every year and it’s very atmospheric.
Another one of my favorite du Pont estates is gorgeous during the holidays: http://www.nemoursmansion.org/welcome.html
Another one of my favorite du Pont estates is gorgeous during the holidays: http://www.nemoursmansion.org/welcome.html
Another one of my favorite du Pont estates is gorgeous during the holidays: http://www.nemoursmansion.org/welcome.html
Another one of my favorite du Pont estates is gorgeous during the holidays: http://www.nemoursmansion.org/welcome.html
Another one of my favorite du Pont estates is gorgeous during the holidays: http://www.nemoursmansion.org/welcome.html
I love visiting old maintained houses. I’ve been to quite a few here in Ireland over the years. Here in Waterford we have the Bishop’s Palace which was recently renovated and a new museum added. A Medieval one and to my utter shame I have yet to visit it. It’s definitely on my to do list as soon as possible. It’s suppose to be fabulous. I love history and have since school days. Isn’t it often the way that you visit everything when you’re away from home and forget all the wonderful places in you’re own area.
I love visiting old maintained houses. I’ve been to quite a few here in Ireland over the years. Here in Waterford we have the Bishop’s Palace which was recently renovated and a new museum added. A Medieval one and to my utter shame I have yet to visit it. It’s definitely on my to do list as soon as possible. It’s suppose to be fabulous. I love history and have since school days. Isn’t it often the way that you visit everything when you’re away from home and forget all the wonderful places in you’re own area.
I love visiting old maintained houses. I’ve been to quite a few here in Ireland over the years. Here in Waterford we have the Bishop’s Palace which was recently renovated and a new museum added. A Medieval one and to my utter shame I have yet to visit it. It’s definitely on my to do list as soon as possible. It’s suppose to be fabulous. I love history and have since school days. Isn’t it often the way that you visit everything when you’re away from home and forget all the wonderful places in you’re own area.
I love visiting old maintained houses. I’ve been to quite a few here in Ireland over the years. Here in Waterford we have the Bishop’s Palace which was recently renovated and a new museum added. A Medieval one and to my utter shame I have yet to visit it. It’s definitely on my to do list as soon as possible. It’s suppose to be fabulous. I love history and have since school days. Isn’t it often the way that you visit everything when you’re away from home and forget all the wonderful places in you’re own area.
I love visiting old maintained houses. I’ve been to quite a few here in Ireland over the years. Here in Waterford we have the Bishop’s Palace which was recently renovated and a new museum added. A Medieval one and to my utter shame I have yet to visit it. It’s definitely on my to do list as soon as possible. It’s suppose to be fabulous. I love history and have since school days. Isn’t it often the way that you visit everything when you’re away from home and forget all the wonderful places in you’re own area.
We went to Biltmore to celebrate Jane Austen’s birthday around 2000– excused it with the truth that the librarian would explain the way books used to be published and explain “in boards.” Very interesting but I wanted to touch the books.
The decorations were beautiful but not breathtakingly so. Didn’t do much looking at interior decorations usually at home but there used to be streets in Atlanta where the residents had spectacular decorations. It was a holiday tradition to ride around and gawk.
We went to Biltmore to celebrate Jane Austen’s birthday around 2000– excused it with the truth that the librarian would explain the way books used to be published and explain “in boards.” Very interesting but I wanted to touch the books.
The decorations were beautiful but not breathtakingly so. Didn’t do much looking at interior decorations usually at home but there used to be streets in Atlanta where the residents had spectacular decorations. It was a holiday tradition to ride around and gawk.
We went to Biltmore to celebrate Jane Austen’s birthday around 2000– excused it with the truth that the librarian would explain the way books used to be published and explain “in boards.” Very interesting but I wanted to touch the books.
The decorations were beautiful but not breathtakingly so. Didn’t do much looking at interior decorations usually at home but there used to be streets in Atlanta where the residents had spectacular decorations. It was a holiday tradition to ride around and gawk.
We went to Biltmore to celebrate Jane Austen’s birthday around 2000– excused it with the truth that the librarian would explain the way books used to be published and explain “in boards.” Very interesting but I wanted to touch the books.
The decorations were beautiful but not breathtakingly so. Didn’t do much looking at interior decorations usually at home but there used to be streets in Atlanta where the residents had spectacular decorations. It was a holiday tradition to ride around and gawk.
We went to Biltmore to celebrate Jane Austen’s birthday around 2000– excused it with the truth that the librarian would explain the way books used to be published and explain “in boards.” Very interesting but I wanted to touch the books.
The decorations were beautiful but not breathtakingly so. Didn’t do much looking at interior decorations usually at home but there used to be streets in Atlanta where the residents had spectacular decorations. It was a holiday tradition to ride around and gawk.
Aren’t historic houses wonderful, especially when dressed for the holidays! And you live in the epicenter of gorgeous old houses! I Am Envious. *G* Enjoy!
Aren’t historic houses wonderful, especially when dressed for the holidays! And you live in the epicenter of gorgeous old houses! I Am Envious. *G* Enjoy!
Aren’t historic houses wonderful, especially when dressed for the holidays! And you live in the epicenter of gorgeous old houses! I Am Envious. *G* Enjoy!
Aren’t historic houses wonderful, especially when dressed for the holidays! And you live in the epicenter of gorgeous old houses! I Am Envious. *G* Enjoy!
Aren’t historic houses wonderful, especially when dressed for the holidays! And you live in the epicenter of gorgeous old houses! I Am Envious. *G* Enjoy!
I’ve not heard of Nemours Mansion, Jan, but I clearly need to put it on my list!
I’ve not heard of Nemours Mansion, Jan, but I clearly need to put it on my list!
I’ve not heard of Nemours Mansion, Jan, but I clearly need to put it on my list!
I’ve not heard of Nemours Mansion, Jan, but I clearly need to put it on my list!
I’ve not heard of Nemours Mansion, Jan, but I clearly need to put it on my list!
So true about not doing great things that are local! I’d say that the next time you feel restless and want to get out, it will be time to head out to the Medieval museum. I’m sure it’s wonderful! The Cloisters in a NYC, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is medieval and possibly my favorite museum EVER!
So true about not doing great things that are local! I’d say that the next time you feel restless and want to get out, it will be time to head out to the Medieval museum. I’m sure it’s wonderful! The Cloisters in a NYC, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is medieval and possibly my favorite museum EVER!
So true about not doing great things that are local! I’d say that the next time you feel restless and want to get out, it will be time to head out to the Medieval museum. I’m sure it’s wonderful! The Cloisters in a NYC, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is medieval and possibly my favorite museum EVER!
So true about not doing great things that are local! I’d say that the next time you feel restless and want to get out, it will be time to head out to the Medieval museum. I’m sure it’s wonderful! The Cloisters in a NYC, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is medieval and possibly my favorite museum EVER!
So true about not doing great things that are local! I’d say that the next time you feel restless and want to get out, it will be time to head out to the Medieval museum. I’m sure it’s wonderful! The Cloisters in a NYC, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is medieval and possibly my favorite museum EVER!
Nancy, I love looking at residential displays, too. ‘Tis the season of lights!
Nancy, I love looking at residential displays, too. ‘Tis the season of lights!
Nancy, I love looking at residential displays, too. ‘Tis the season of lights!
Nancy, I love looking at residential displays, too. ‘Tis the season of lights!
Nancy, I love looking at residential displays, too. ‘Tis the season of lights!
Five years ago we were in England to attend our daughter’s graduation ceremony (she received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Lancaster University). We were lucky enough to go to Chatsworth three days before Christmas. The house was just spectacular dressed for Christmas (it’s pretty spectacular undressed as well!).
Closer to home (Vancouver Island) The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens is an amazing display of lights and The Twelve Days of Christmas. Fabulous. My favourites are the 9 ladies dancing – they’re on a carousel and the ladies are various ladies and girls from stories and nursery rhymes: Little Miss Muffet, Dorothy, Little Bo Peep, Snow White, Cinderella, Alice, Mary, Mary Quite Contrary, Little Red Riding Hood and a generic evil Witch.
Even closer to home, Ladysmith’s Festival of Lights (starts last Thursday in November) is also pretty spectacular. This year the RCMP estimated the attendance at 20,000 people, in a town of about 8,000. The lights will be on for about another week or so.
Five years ago we were in England to attend our daughter’s graduation ceremony (she received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Lancaster University). We were lucky enough to go to Chatsworth three days before Christmas. The house was just spectacular dressed for Christmas (it’s pretty spectacular undressed as well!).
Closer to home (Vancouver Island) The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens is an amazing display of lights and The Twelve Days of Christmas. Fabulous. My favourites are the 9 ladies dancing – they’re on a carousel and the ladies are various ladies and girls from stories and nursery rhymes: Little Miss Muffet, Dorothy, Little Bo Peep, Snow White, Cinderella, Alice, Mary, Mary Quite Contrary, Little Red Riding Hood and a generic evil Witch.
Even closer to home, Ladysmith’s Festival of Lights (starts last Thursday in November) is also pretty spectacular. This year the RCMP estimated the attendance at 20,000 people, in a town of about 8,000. The lights will be on for about another week or so.
Five years ago we were in England to attend our daughter’s graduation ceremony (she received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Lancaster University). We were lucky enough to go to Chatsworth three days before Christmas. The house was just spectacular dressed for Christmas (it’s pretty spectacular undressed as well!).
Closer to home (Vancouver Island) The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens is an amazing display of lights and The Twelve Days of Christmas. Fabulous. My favourites are the 9 ladies dancing – they’re on a carousel and the ladies are various ladies and girls from stories and nursery rhymes: Little Miss Muffet, Dorothy, Little Bo Peep, Snow White, Cinderella, Alice, Mary, Mary Quite Contrary, Little Red Riding Hood and a generic evil Witch.
Even closer to home, Ladysmith’s Festival of Lights (starts last Thursday in November) is also pretty spectacular. This year the RCMP estimated the attendance at 20,000 people, in a town of about 8,000. The lights will be on for about another week or so.
Five years ago we were in England to attend our daughter’s graduation ceremony (she received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Lancaster University). We were lucky enough to go to Chatsworth three days before Christmas. The house was just spectacular dressed for Christmas (it’s pretty spectacular undressed as well!).
Closer to home (Vancouver Island) The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens is an amazing display of lights and The Twelve Days of Christmas. Fabulous. My favourites are the 9 ladies dancing – they’re on a carousel and the ladies are various ladies and girls from stories and nursery rhymes: Little Miss Muffet, Dorothy, Little Bo Peep, Snow White, Cinderella, Alice, Mary, Mary Quite Contrary, Little Red Riding Hood and a generic evil Witch.
Even closer to home, Ladysmith’s Festival of Lights (starts last Thursday in November) is also pretty spectacular. This year the RCMP estimated the attendance at 20,000 people, in a town of about 8,000. The lights will be on for about another week or so.
Five years ago we were in England to attend our daughter’s graduation ceremony (she received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Lancaster University). We were lucky enough to go to Chatsworth three days before Christmas. The house was just spectacular dressed for Christmas (it’s pretty spectacular undressed as well!).
Closer to home (Vancouver Island) The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens is an amazing display of lights and The Twelve Days of Christmas. Fabulous. My favourites are the 9 ladies dancing – they’re on a carousel and the ladies are various ladies and girls from stories and nursery rhymes: Little Miss Muffet, Dorothy, Little Bo Peep, Snow White, Cinderella, Alice, Mary, Mary Quite Contrary, Little Red Riding Hood and a generic evil Witch.
Even closer to home, Ladysmith’s Festival of Lights (starts last Thursday in November) is also pretty spectacular. This year the RCMP estimated the attendance at 20,000 people, in a town of about 8,000. The lights will be on for about another week or so.
I’ve always wanted to visit Winterthur, and it’s on my must-do list for this year!
I’ve always wanted to visit Winterthur, and it’s on my must-do list for this year!
I’ve always wanted to visit Winterthur, and it’s on my must-do list for this year!
I’ve always wanted to visit Winterthur, and it’s on my must-do list for this year!
I’ve always wanted to visit Winterthur, and it’s on my must-do list for this year!
Lorraine, I think you win the fabulous holiday houses award! Chatsworth must have been amazing, and of course Butchart Gardens, always. I’d love to the the 9 ladies dancing!
Lorraine, I think you win the fabulous holiday houses award! Chatsworth must have been amazing, and of course Butchart Gardens, always. I’d love to the the 9 ladies dancing!
Lorraine, I think you win the fabulous holiday houses award! Chatsworth must have been amazing, and of course Butchart Gardens, always. I’d love to the the 9 ladies dancing!
Lorraine, I think you win the fabulous holiday houses award! Chatsworth must have been amazing, and of course Butchart Gardens, always. I’d love to the the 9 ladies dancing!
Lorraine, I think you win the fabulous holiday houses award! Chatsworth must have been amazing, and of course Butchart Gardens, always. I’d love to the the 9 ladies dancing!