I am loving my new neighborhood. I have a ground floor apartment in an old Victorian in the heart of the historic district in Roanoke, called "Old Southwest."
The Gish House, the oldest house in Roanoke, is in our neighborhood. To raise funds to maintain this old log home and for other neighborhood initiatives, each year, the neighborhood puts on
"The Parlor Tour." This year, six homes participated. They decorate to the hilt and open their doors for the curious to come have a look at these 100-year-old homes. I took some fun photos that I hope will help get you in the holiday spirit!
There was an eclectic range of houses on the tour, like this elegant house, with a dining room I'd love to eat in!
or their fireplace I'd love to sit by.
Or their front porch swing I'd love to swing on.
Then there was the house that would look festive any time of year!
With it's welcoming arch.
The inside of this one was especially to my liking. She designed her kitchen to look like Scottish lodge.
Including the dining room - check out that ceiling!
Even her laundry room had a certain Christmas flair.
A bachelor's home was on the tour and had some wonderful outdoorsy elements.
These old homes have amazing fireplaces.
My favorite house was one I run by every morning - who knew it held so much magic inside!
I especially loved all her Botero and Blue Dog that she decoupaged all over her kitchen walls.
She was obviously from New Orleans.
Even her back door had a distinctive flair.
Of course, it all ended up back at the Gish House with hot cider and cookies.
What a lovely way to spend the afternoon, especially knowing my ticket purchase was helping my neighborhood do even more fun things in the future! Merry Christmas!
Click the cover to learn about this state-themed picture book, now available as a board book too! Makes a GREAT teacher gift! 
