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Sunday, November 17, 2024

The Christmas Barn

 We were away for the weekend at a caravan club rally, and there was a trip organised  to visit the Christmas Barn.  Of course I wanted to go, how exciting.  We shared cars and 8 of us drove down to see all the lovely goodies.  Lots of other people had the same idea, parking was at a premium, and the barn was packed with lots of customers.



So many lovely Christmas objects inside, all beautifully displayed.  Elegant Christmas trees everywhere, all colour co-ordinated, shelves full of goodies, and the barn was full to overflowing with customers.  There was really so much to take in.  While the ladies in our group browsed, the men retired to the cafe, where we eventually joined them for a reviving cup of coffee.  Most of the ladies had a little parcel to take back to the camp, including me.  I asked if there was any Jim Shore items available, as I have a small collection of these.  There were a few items, but nothing that I really liked, and I was told that the store is awaiting the bulk of their Jim Shore order to arrive.  What I did buy was a small Christmas tree decoration for both of the granddaughters.

  



The Christmas Barn

We had the use of a meeting room for the weekend for our morning teas and evening get togethers.  Our host was an Elvis fan and was gifted all these wonderful Elvis books to add to his collection.  I had a lovely time looking through one of these, lots of info, and so many great photos.  I've always been an Elvis fan, and visiting Gracelands is on my bucket list, although I don't really think that is likely to happen now.  But I can still dream, can't I.  

A wonderful collection

On Saturday night the caravan club members enjoyed a shared dessert.  There certainly was a lot of different desserts on offer.  I had been given some limes, so made a Key Lime Pie to take along and share.  I don't know if this was an authentic recipe, as it was made with a tin of sweetened condensed milk, but it was delicious.


Plenty for everyone

Look at all these cute teddy bears in the front window of prospective member Graham's van, collected over the years by Graham's late wife.  These bears were issued annually as a fund raiser for the Cancer Society.  Graham saw me out and about with my camera and invited me to take a photo.

A whole lot of teddy bears

Gemma enjoys her time away in the caravan, she lounges around most of the day, with the occasional trip outside with her harness and lead.  But she gets upset by loud car noises, so often scurries back to the caravan to sit in the doorway.


Curled up asleep on top of the sofa

We were not ready to return home after after caravan weekend away, but have more adventures in store.  Next stop, north to Napier.

12 comments:

Kim said...

The Christmas Barn looks like a Christmas wonderland filled with all that anyone might want to decorate for Christmas. You certainly have the best fun touring with your caravaning friends, Jenny.

Julierose said...

Oh your Christmas barn adventure looks like it was such fun--I love going to Holiday Fairs and decorated sites--brings back all those childhood memories.
i have been gifting most of my ornaments to my children for their trees, including y needlepoint angels and bells that I made over the years...we just put up a small tabletop tree these days...I also have some cherished real glass ornaments from my Grand-mere that I am gifting this year...they are too big for our tree now... Enjoy the rest of your trip...hugs, Julierose
P.S. and yes, do it while you can for sure...

Carole @ From My Carolina Home said...

Oh, that looks like a wonderful place to shop!

Jenn Jilks said...

Gemma is a cutie!
We were Christmas shopping Friday! Such excitement.

Tired Teacher said...

What fun! I love to see Christmas displays.

Nancy J said...

Gracelands visit, a bit like my dream to meet all my overseas friends or fly to Vancouver and see where Josh is now. Cheesecake looks delicious.A good time to be on the road before the mad holiday rush starts.

Susan said...

A dun time away - got to love a Christmas shop

Jackie said...

What a lovely place to visit in the lead up to Christmas. Gemma looks very comfy sleeping on the back of the sofa.

God bless.

Maria said...

What a love.y place to visit.
Oh so many delicious sweet treats….
Enjoy the rest of your journey.

Melisa- pinkernpunkinquilting said...

The Christmas Barn looks like a magical place to visit. It sounds like a good time was had by all. The desserts look amazing. Have a great week, Jenny

Astrid said...

That looks like a wonderful weekend out! I love Christmas shops like that, but as far as I know there's nothing like that here. Yummy desserts! Love the teddy bear fund raiser.

Karen S said...

A whole barn full of Christmas goodies. Sounds like heaven!!