A Victorian Christmas

Recently, following one of my husband's choir performances, we were invited back to the home of one of the choir members. Our friend moved into this home several years ago and at that time it had sat vacant for several years and was in pretty bad shape. Dan went about having the house fixed up and restored to some of its former glory. We have been very fortunate in that he has hosted the choir at his home at Christmas for three years. What a beautiful setting to get you into the Christmas mood! 
This year I asked Dan if he minded if I posted some pics of his home on my blog and he graciously told me to go ahead. Welcome to a Victorian Christmas!

I don't think I've ever seen nativity figures that are more realistic. I was amazed by the sheep wrapped around the shepherd and the headgear worn by the kings.

  
All of the stockings in the above picture are needlepoint of course!

Love the porcelain face and hands on this Santa as well as the tree topper below. The fur muff she uses reminds me of one which I had as a child. 

As you may have already guessed, Dan also collects antiques which is almost a necessity when living in a home such as this. Take a close look at the little girl in the next portrait and see what she is doing. Does it look familiar to anyone?

 Dan also has an appreciation of needlework and proudly showed me this fireplace screen which he found last year. Look closely and you will see a woman's face at the top centre of the design.

Look at the sweet little choir boy candles at the base of this lamp.

It was a lovely evening and certainly put me in the Christmas mood.
Here is a pic of our host and one of his foster children who celebrated his birthday that evening. Thank you again Dan for a fabulous time!

To all of my stitching friends and family I wish the merriest of Christmases and all the best for the New Year. A special welcome to all of my new followers as well. I am touched by all of your comments and feel so very blessed to be a part of the blogging community.