A White Christmas, in the South!!!

It snowed Christmas Day, the first time since 1882! Of course, we only got a smattering but it was still beautiful.

Oddly shaped icicles...
The holly bushes gave us a Christmasy feel...



Although we were overjoyed with the snow, it made it rough for family members traveling. Our granddawgs, however, made the best of it. Lizzie snuggles against Kim, and then,
takes a turn with Darryl.
She too found the snow beautiful (except when she had to go out in it)

Calvin (the philosopher) found comfort amongst some blankets

His pensive look... contemplating the infinite patterns of snowflakes.

Kasey preferred the indoor activities, especially being scratched... a little to the right please.
Hmmm.... what is so interesting in the kitchen? Do I get up?
Treats maybe?
Kramer remained in the shadows most of the time, working on his next post for the Victorian Parlor. He prowled, climbed, perched and growled and then sought shelter in the bedroom. I'm sure he took plenty of notes!

Our wishes for a safe and happy New Year!

The fight that never was

Having heard a loud guttural yell, I rushed to the kitchen to find my Cassie kitty perched on the stool in the window nose-to-nose with my neighbor's white cat. By the time I retrieved my camera, both had retreated.
Cassie continues to watch the intruder.
But eventually both cats tire of the confrontation.
As I walk away, I hear a commotion and turn to see Cassie lunging at the cat against the window. After a few loud thumps and realizing that glass and screen separate the two, the other cat retreated and jumped over the fence.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Decorating our home for Christmas has always been a challenge. I don't have the decorating talents of the Victorian Parlor, so I just do what makes me happy!

The fireplace...
I love poinsettias and lights


The guys are posed to greet you in the foyer! Junior is counting the days until Christmas...
Over the years I have collected a lot of stuffed Santas, snowmen and reindeer and my challenge is to find a place where they can sit and observe. I can't put them on chairs or the floor due to a certain puppy who might just convert them into chew toys (yes Liz, I'm talking about you:)

So, for this year, they are perched on top of the china cabinet in the dining room.
These guys will be moved when Liz arrives

Best wishes for a joyous Christmas season! And happy decorating!

Lakewood 400 - November 2010

Back in May I did a post on one of the most outstanding booths I have visited at any antique fair. I like it because you feel like you've walked into a real boutique! The hostess is Carlotta Stapleton and not only is she a wonderfully gracious person but she has an outstanding memory, remembering your interests and what you have looked at in her booth from previous visits.The next few shots are of vignettes she has set up...


She has clothing dating back to the Victorian period...
And as recent as the mid-20th century.
Glass and mirrored trays which catch the light are placed throughout
Hats anyone? This is one of the Victorian Parlor's favorite past times.
This one is especially glamorous...
Looks like something that royalty might wear
She even has a man's beaver hat...
A sweet vignette (notice the mirror once more)
Hatpins, some of which are from the Victorian era
Jewelry is showcased everywhere

You can never go wrong with rhinestones, their many facets catching the light...
Or cameos,
Exquisite pieces displayed on glass shelves
Purses are available

A pair of sweet children's shoes from days past, buttons still intact
Gloves
And of course perfume bottles for a lady's vanity

Frames abound throughout the booth with photos from the Victorian era to the present
The hat on this woman is amazing!


A beautiful painting
And a sweet doll
A beautiful Cobalt blue Fukagawa vase!
Tea anyone?
Lots of pink glass, but don't forget the lamp next to it!
Salt and pepper shakers
This light is beautiful against the mirror


A white whicker seat
And of course a tribute to Carlotta's Grandmother Ella - she lived to be 109 years!
Thanks Carlotta for another wonderful visit!