Georgene A. Bramlage's BlogPosted by Georgene A. Bramlage Colonial Williamsburg: Where History Lives is a grand site to learn about decorating in the colonial 18th century style. Pine roping, other greenery and fresh fruit combine to make the decorations that give Colonial Williamsburg's Historic Area its charm and elegance during the Christmas season. There are many photographs, how-to-do-it instructions and diagrams, and podcasts at the Colonial Williamsburg site to help with decorating ideas or to just dream about 18th century colonial landscapes. Posted by Georgene A. Bramlage Landscaping at Suite101 Web Link of the Month passes along to readers not just a listing of interesting and comprehensive sites for landscape gardeners but my personal evaluation of each. I choose sites that provide a combination of in-depth explanations and analyses of pertinent landscape topics, good photographs, how-to-do-it instructions, and often up-to-date technology useful for residential landscaping. The first Web Link of the Month is Colonial Williamsburg: Where History Lives. I hope you enjoy this link and the new feature. I would appreciate your feedback as I continue this feature. Posted by Georgene A. Bramlage The 2006 December Solstice begins precisely at 7:22p.m. EST on 12/21 and at 00:22 UTC on 12/22. In the northern hemisphere, the December solstice marks the longest night and shortest day of the year. In the southern hemisphere, the day marks the shortest night and longest day of the year. No matter where you live and garden, this is also the sun's signal to celebrate. To learn more about the December Solstice check out Everything you need to know about the solstice on December 21 at Earth and Sky. These Landscaping at Suite101articles will help you learn more about how the sun and microclimates affect the accuracy and reality of landscape designs: Posted by Georgene A. Bramlage The Feast of St. Nicholas - Jolly Old St. Nick and all that stuff - passed by on December 6; Hanukah began at sundown on December 15, the Winter Solstice begins at precisely 7:22pm (EST) on December 21 (00:22 UTC on December 22) and of course there is Christmas on December 25. To get with this season of light, I've posted a new Landscaping Poll I think it is a fun poll and am looking forward to the results. If you have a few minutes, please visit and vote in the poll. Look for a report on the results in January. Posted by Georgene A. Bramlage Traditionally, American presidents and their families welcome guests to a decked out White House during the winter holiday season. However, it was former First Lady Jackie Kennedy that began the modern holiday excitement in 1961 by choosing to decorate the White House with a "Nutcracker" theme. Current First Lady Laura Bush chose "Deckthe Halls and Welcome All" as the 2006 White House Interiorscaping theme. The resulting red- and silver-hued display masterminded and carried out by the Executive Residence staff, floral designers and volunteers is dazzling. We can enjoy a virtual White house holiday tour by accessing online videos and photo essays at the official White House website or watching the 2006 White House Christmas Special hosted by Robin McGraw on Home and Garden TV. Air times for the 2006 White House Christmas special that repeats between now and December 24 are listed on the HGTV website. |