Mount Vernon by Candlelight

Marthalee, Eleanor, Grandma Judi & I paused for a girls group photo during our evening at Mount Vernon. It was cold and windy but we were bundled up for warmth!

Yes, the fruit is real!!!

We were greeted with HAPPY CHRISTMAS! (rather than Merry) and enjoyed the hosts in each room we visited in the mansion.

No photography allowed inside...you'll have to come see it yourself! Such a magical estate.

There were a dozen beautifully decorated Christmas trees to gaze upon.

Each tree had a different theme pertaining to periods of George & Martha Washington's life, ie: George the Surveyor, George the Commander in Cheif.
Live period musical entertainment.

Sipping cider & ginger cookies near the outdoor fire.

"Apple", the pardoned White House turkey, was in his cage in the wooden fenced in area behind us. (We couldn't see him but will go back during the day soon.) They had to lock him up for fear of foxes on the estate and his being white in color provided no camoflauge. Also, being from California, he is not accustomed to such foul weather.

I loved meeting Aladdin the camel!

George paid 18 shillings in 1787 to have a camel brought to Mount Vernon for his Christmas guests' enjoyment. Aladdin gave the palm of my hand soft tickly nuzzles and was so gentle. Raised in Poolesville, Virginia, this camel is three years old. Perhaps he reminded me of Oscar because of their similar age & sweetness?

Amazing 5-foot wide Gingerbread Mount Vernon

Eleanor with her newest doll, a caroling christmas tree decorator.

She chose well, as decorating the tree is one of her favorite Christmas activities. She is so excited this year as "her angel" is atop our tree. In previous years we have had a silver star.