A Visit to Chestnut Hill

I so love the rural beauty of Lancaster County this time of year, flurries flying, the scent of woodsmoke in the air, horses and buggies on the road, their passengers bundled up in scarves and blankets, the tradition of  a single candle in each window as a welcome to travelers...It's truly a breathtaking place in winter, a hearkening back to another age.

But there's also much to be said for, as the song says, "Christmastime in the city". With that in mind, John and I took a rare day off yesterday for a ramble around Chestnut Hill, one of Philadelphia's oldest - and most beautiful - neighborhoods. Stately homes and more than a few mansions can be seen on the drive into the city, and once downtown, the buildings look this this...

 Just charming,with all the shop windows dressed in greenery and ribbons. After dark, tiny white lights are everywhere, and on Wednesday evenings, carolers stroll the sidewalks. Some of the shopkeepers really go all out with window displays, like this one at Roberstons Flowers...

We also visited Penzy's Spices, and oh my!! I can see why daughter Courtney loves this place. We were delighted to discover more than a few salt-free spice blends and rubs there, which John should have a lot fun with, as he further explores his recent interest in cooking. For my part, it took every ounce of willpower I could muster to stay away from the hot cocoa mixes. ;)

Strolling across the street and down a bit, we found this little shop, The Bone Appetite...

Shhh, don't tell Cosmo and Cadie, but I think Santa Dog is bringing them some very special, iced polar bear treats, hehe. :)

But by far, my favorite stop was this one, The Tangled Web...

Colorful, yarny goodness!

Do you think five days until Christmas is enough time to knit up another gift?

Of course it is! Needles will be flying around here every evening. ;)

All of this walking and shopping (admittedly most of it window shopping, hehe) was broken up by a visit to the Iron Hill Brewery for lunch, which was just delightful. I was bad, and had creme brulee for dessert. NO willpower when it comes to creme brulee, I tell you. Absolutely none.

It was an altogether magical, Christmasy sort of day, and I must give credit to John, who bore it all - even the yarn store - without complaint. What a guy, right?

On the way out of town, we were treated to a glimpse of this mural being painted...

Beautiful, and reminded me of the days I was the one climbing ladders and scaffolds. Oh, to be that young and limber again, *sigh*...

We arrived home to two VERY put-out Aussies (even though their best friend Nikki came by to walk them during the day). They've become so spoiled with *Mom and Dad* home all day, and don't like being left alone one bit, which they let us know by much howling and barking when we finally arrive. :)

It's back to work this morning, but only part time for the next few days, as there's still much baking and wrapping to be done. So I'll sign off now, but not before wishing everyone a Happy and Blessed Yule! The days will begin getting lighter now as we enter into winter, and look forward to spring - reason for rejoicing, indeed.

Until next time,
♥ Carolee