Today's DAR
It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas at DAR Headquarters
It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas at DAR Headquarters
After a wonderful Thanksgiving at the ranch with my family, I returned to D.C. last week to prepare for the Executive Board Meetings. It was such a delight to see the building beautifully decorated and I wanted to share some snapshots with you. Poinsettias will be delivered today, just in time for our Open House on Wednesday evening.
The entryway was redesigned and is much more welcoming. The garland around the Security desk is so pretty as we greet our visitors.
Our Open House guests will see the largest of our four trees when they enter through the Pennsylvania Foyer. In the adjoining O’Byrne Gallery, Santa will be seated by the fireplace, in front of the Owl tree reflecting our commitment to education. The fuzzy owls are so cute I just want to pet them!
On the opposite end of the O’Byrne Gallery is the Peacock tree, reflecting our pride in our Junior Members. Last year the toddlers were very eager to touch the pretty birds.
The garland in the Library is stunning. I have no idea how our Elves (aka Property Beautification and Hospitality Committee) manage to hang them so evenly. It is an understatement to say I wish they would come to my house!
In the stairwell across the lobby from the main entrance is a patriotic tree where guests will be invited to sign cards of encouragement and appreciation to our active duty troops.
And lastly, I wanted you to see how beautiful the mantel is in my office. Don’t the battery operated candles enhance the painting by Honorary President General Ann Rogers Minor?
Many of the period rooms have been decorated as well with displays of how Christmas decorations evolved from the late 18th century through the mid-20th century. The Open House is one of our favorite activities as it gives us the opportunity to share our beautiful home with the public. If you are in the area, we hope you will join us.
Last week my days were busy and filled with meetings. The DAR Museum welcomed a group of 45 first and second graders from an underserved area school. They started in the President General’s Assembly room learning about quilt shapes and patterns (and apparently enjoyed it very much judging by the excited chatter across the hall from my office) and then visited some of the period rooms to see a few of our quilts.
Thursday evening I was invited to an event which Ann Hand, the well-known jewelry and scarf designer, held in her Georgetown store honoring the D.C. DAR. In the photo, I am standing between Ann Schaeffer, D.C. State Regent, and Ann Hand, holding a rendition of the gorgeous scarf which Ann Hand has designed for DAR. A limited supply should be available by March, so stay tuned for the announcement. I may have to buy one to wear and one to frame…. Or perhaps I’ll speak to Santa at the Open House.