i want a parlor in my house

Thursday evening turned out to be a lovely, enchanting and joyful night. I had been hearing about how wonderful the Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village were, but I had yet to experience it myself. Let me tell you, if you have time before Dec. 22nd, go and visit! It's romantic, it's magical, it's educational, it makes you appreciate what people have done through time to get us where we are today. And it takes you out of the hustle & bustle of today and stirs up a respect and admiration for a time much simpler than ours.

Of course there were the homes of Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, The Wright Brothers ... but we also got to step into Noah Webster's home and others who weren't necessarily historically famous. We stepped into 1764 and 1845 and others and all was dimly lit by lantern or candlelight. Some homes had someone in the kitchen, baking real food, while others were relaxing in the parlors. The streets were filled with well-wishers and horse-drawn wagons. There was even an ice rink (for free!) and Model T rides (free again!). Along the way we stopped in a couple shops and got some cookies, chocolate covered nuts/raisins and coffee. And we were able to pet a couple live reindeer just outside of where Santa would come out to Ho! Ho! Ho! every now and then.

Some of the highlights for Mark & I were easily the quaint English (stone) cottage that, once inside, welcomed us with a roaring fire and an Irish quartet playing upbeat Irish traditionals. We crammed inside for a while and took in the glory of the music and overall feeling. There were also random bonfires along the paths where some people dressed in civil war garb stood, playing fifes and drums. The biggest highlight of the night, though, was being able to be there with some of Mark's family. His aunts, uncle and cousin (and his new girl!) met us up there and instantly settled my nerves and fears about seeing them again for the first time since everything ... But they couldn't have been kinder and more welcoming. I was thrilled by their good natures.

Kisses, hugs, small chats with one another and fireworks to complete the event - it was a wonderful night.