I followed dreamdoctor here from another post. I didn't grow up with Christmas, so the variety of these lights and their evolution is a total mystery to me, although they have always held a fascination for me. I have a set of white Christmas lights woumd around my wrought iron rail at the top of my split entry stairs that I put there at least a decade ago. So long ago I forget they are there and that anyone would judge their aesthetic value. They have become an essential to light my stairs at night as well as serve to give a bit of flavor to that part of the house in the night. I'll have to check out "modern versions!" BTW dream doctor I have been a vegetarian for a few years and still love the smell of bacon, as long as I don't think about it. Kind of like my recycled leather floors. My own hypocracy is a work in progress. ;-)

The parlour palm is the most reliable palm for indoors .. Plants add exponentially to the indoors effect and personality, as has been said many times over, however as with anything, ideally should be placed/chosen tastefully and not in a hodge-podge or messy looking fashion. Unhealthy looking plants are particularly unattractive ..

The bath tub looks uncomfortable! One would need to be short in stature to have a relaxing soak in a tub shaped like that. Looks nice, but looks don't do it for me. Pity...the bathroom ambience is spectacular! Don't think the designers of these half- egg-shaped tubs and others like them gave much thought to practicality. I'm always glad of my big old plunge tub from years ago, looks lovely newly resurfaced....plenty of room to stretch out, nice wide edges to sit on if needs be, 1/2inch thick enamelled cast iron that keeps the water warm, wide ledge at the rear for easy-to-reach pamper products.... Think I'd rather have a larger version of the lovely vanity basin you've had installed as a bathtub rather than your half egg shaped one. Nevertheless, hope your new bathroom with a view brings you many relaxing hours.

Ok...for you guys down under, the Christmas in July makes sense. For us in the Northern Hemisphere, especially in my part of the world with the humidity and heat, the idea just makes me cringe. So, yes, enjoy your winter with all the festivities and we'll pour the charcoal on the grill here! :D