Today I am taking a moment to step inside the Manor and talk about a different type of tree then you usually see on this blog. The Christmas tree (affectionately known as The Big Tree to staff and volunteers) takes center stage when you enter the house during this season. 

Christmas trees are often a highlight of the holiday season. They can be seen lit up behind windows in homes around the world. Many different traditions surround the Christmas tree, but the magic is the part I like the best. There is something about bringing a tree indoors and bestowing it with lights and favorite decorations. It is a way for us humans to enjoy a softer light during this darker and colder time of year.

No matter my level of scroogie-ness during any given holiday season, I am always captivated by The Big Tree. I look forward to seeing how it will be decorated each year. For the last several years, Terry Converse has been the creative force behind the inspired displays on The Big Tree. She selects the ornaments and plans out original features she makes by hand.

Earlier this year, Terry asked if I had any dried Allium schubertii she could have for decorating. Little did I know that these dried ornamental onions would be sparkling with rhinestones attached to the ends where the flowers would be. See below for this beautiful Allium in bloom in the gardens. 

I just love how this captures the essence of one of my favorite ornamental onions in the gardens. This is the magic that draws me into The Big Tree. I feel at once dazzled and also reconnected back to the beauty that inspires the display.

There are recreations of historical ribbons that harken back to the ones worn by Fourth of July officials when participating in festivities here in Bristol. Now, I am always impressed with the way the theme for the year is expressed on The Big Tree, but this year far exceeded my expectations. Fourth of July as a Christmas theme is unique, and Terry made it work in a lovely way. The theme becomes apparent upon closer appreciation of all the decorations together in concert.

I can’t wait for you to come and see The Big Tree and all of the other incredible decorations around the manor and grounds this holiday season. It takes many hands to create these impressive displays. We do it with all of you in mind. I know you will feel the magic of Blithewold when you visit this year.