A reader question for the community:
Hi, fellow Saltwater New Englanders!
I hope you're all enjoying the festive season and staying warm. I love the charm and beauty of New England in winter, but I also wouldn't mind some warmth and sun after Christmas. Do you have any recommendations for places to go? Are there better parts in Florida or an island that are more preppy than resort? I'd love to hear your suggestions and experiences. Thanks!
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| The essence is restraint. |
Classic New England preppy Christmas decorations have two flavors.
The first is very simple and elegant, erring on solemn. One wreath on the front door, with just a red bow. A few white candle lights in the lower windows, and perhaps the same on the second story. A tree with lights and ornaments.
The second is a variation of the first, but with a bit of wit or whimsy. In my house growing up, all of the stuffed owls and water fowl (given to us by a Yale taxidermist) and decoys (carved by my grandfather) got little Christmas hats.
The essence is restraint. Basically, decorations are done right when they are easy to miss.
Dressing one's house, or heaven forbid one's pets, in such a way that competes with the local shopping mall is as unthinkable as smothering oneself in perfume or cologne and then stepping into a crowded elevator.
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| A bit of wit. A bit of ingenuity. |
I have a question for the community which has given much sound direction: what are the holiday traditions which we can never give up? Decorations, food, gifting, etc,.?
A reader question:
I have a question for my fellow Salt Water New England readers. Every year someone from my family hosts the Christmas party, and this year it is our turn. In the past, we have sung Christmas Carols, but over the last few years the tradition has died down. I am planning to resurrect it accompanied by a piano. So, long story, what are some favorite Christmas Carols for singing?
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| Photos by Salt Water New England |
Do your readers have suggestions for hosting an open-house during the holidays? Christmas or, in our case, on New Year's Day.
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| Broadway Legend Lee Roy Reams (Center) |
GTH pants are a great way for naturally low key, more serious people to temporarily embrace bright festive colors, and a way for loud people to pass themselves off as low key, serious people temporarily embracing bright colors.
