Friday, December 14, 2012

11 Day Countdown: Christmas Stroll Thru An Historical Connecticut Home

Looking through some of my favorite country Christmas projects, I found this quintessential Country Living Magazine Christmas story that you may enjoy. 

This 1777 Toll house antique cottage in Litchfield Connecticut was once a real "Toll" house. The home is now an historical landmark and speaks of earlier days when back-country roads of Connecticut were passable only by paying tolls.


Each and every year, Leslie Powell decorates her home to express an old fashioned Christmas, '... just like the one's we used to know'.  On a cold snowy morning in January, photographer Tria Giovan and I arrived at Leslie's home and then spent two days photographing the Christmas tradition that she creates each year.  We could not have been happier. 

Who wouldn't want to nestle up on the porch and next to a tree decorated with Fabric ornaments created by folk artist Jennifer Schneeman


Leslie's home exudes Christmas Holiday charm in each and every corner. This home is a dream-come-true for a stylist like me.


I remember the kitchen at Leslie's home fondly: glowing fireplaces, decorative evergreen and her kitchen filled with the aroma of baking bread and gingerbread. She lives the dream!  On special occasions, Leslie's husband, Stephan, cooks wonderful meals in the fireplace!  Sorry we missed that last one!


Everywhere we turned there was another gorgeous picture to take. We simply did not have enough time.   Tria and I were like kids in a candy shop. Her collection of antique cutting boards that graces her kitchen counter made a beautiful still life.


Leslie's collection of pewter and early-American earthenware pottery is endless and was perfect for styling this photo of goodies baked for our photo shoot. 


A centerpiece of fresh fruit tucked into a basket of pine boughs is an American tradition.  Pineapples were a Colonial symbol of hospitality.



Remarkable collections of antique samplers look beautiful on the wide wooden wall boards throughout Leslie's home. Every corner of her home has a story worth telling.



Leslie's story-book charm home is one we rarely see.   Just outside the door of her home we find a little cottage which houses her antique shop.


This little cottage on the property is Leslie's antique shop.  If you love her style, you'll love her shop!. It's filled with fabulous treasures and will add excitement to your journey.  She sells gorgeous fabric pin cushions created by folk artist Jennifer Schneeman.  I think I may go get one this weekend!


http://www.litchfieldcty.com/antiques/tollhse/tollhse.html
TOLL HOUSE ANTIQUES
38 Old Turnpike Road
(1/8 mile off Route 202)
Bantam, CT 06750
(860) 567-3130

Want to see more pictures of Leslies beautiful home. Please click the link below to read more on this Country Living magazine Christmas:

http://www.countryliving.com/homes/house-tours/colonial-christmas-1208#slide-1



3 comments:

  1. What an opportunity to peek inside this amazing home. Your photos are lovely !
    Rose

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  3. Ah, the magic of Christmas! This blog truly captures the festive spirit and brings back memories of joyful celebrations. Planning my Christmas party this year was made so much easier with the help of the Christmas Party Shop. Their incredible selection of decorations, festive accessories, and unique party favors added that extra touch of holiday cheer to my gathering. Thanks to them, my guests were delighted, and the atmosphere was simply magical. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments!

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