christmas in the air...

this morning i was able to go to the 20th annual dicken's house in hillsborough...

every year a different home is chosen...and each room is designed and decorated by a different designer...this is honestly one of my favorite things during this time of year...it is the "start" of my holiday thinking...and sets the tone..and the excitement for the coming season...

dicken's house is always held at the end of october...not only are you able to walk through a newly furnished & decorated home...but it is completely "dressed" for christmas...and throughout the home there are wonderful items that can be purchased...such as ornaments, vases, table toppers...all the way to the kitchen which is full of chocolate fudge, popcorn, drinks, jams & unique sauces...

"with its warm earth-tones, arched windows and quaint wrought-iron balconies, this year's dicken's house is reminiscent of an old country-french chateau. but once visitors step inside the grand foyer, with its gleaming wood floors, fresh paint and perfect symmetry, there's no doubt that this is a new home."

this actual home is unique in that it was actually designed by the owner of the home, a mother of two who left behind a law career to launch a company that designs and builds homes. she certainly saw the potential in this house and transformed it into a 3-level home, just over 5,000 square feet. it is a relaxed and elegant blend of modern conveniences paired with traditional touches like wainscoting, generous moldings and large, arched windows and doorways that allow light to fill the home.

after taking in the vastness of the home...my favorite part is seeing all the christmas trees in each room...each is decorated different than the last...with all the ornaments and accessories ready to buy...the home is filled with christmas smells and music...and the hustle and bustle of all the people chatting away....excitement in the voices at treasures found...

well - it just makes me want christmas to get here sooner...

i got some new ideas for my home this year...but first...gotta get through another favorite holiday...thanksgiving!