Yule Log!

For many years Channel 11, WPIX in New York City (one of the oldest TV stations in the country), would present the "Yule Log" on Christmas Eve. While the Yule Log burned, Christmas carols would play. Now my childhood home did have a fireplace, but there was something about the Yule Log on Channel 11 that made us happy. It became a New York area tradition. I hope you enjoy it! This particular Yule Log was shown in 1983.

After a few years off the air, the Yule Log was restored back to Channel 11 a few years ago, and now is seen on many stations around the country.

There is, of course, a fan website devoted to The Yule Log.
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I'm taking a short break from my blogs to concentrate on the holidays, catch up on my reading and to focus my energies on some work projects.

So I'll see you sometime early next year!

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Wordish Wednesday: Gingerbread Wonderland!

Recently the Frelinghuysen Arboretum celebrated their 20th annual Gingerbread Wonderland. Participants created displays made almost entirely of gingerbread and candies. Throughout the week, visitors voted for their favorites and there were three "winners", although everyone who participated showed great creativity!

More photos after the jump! Click link below.

Wordish Wednesday: Christmas At Kips Castle

Several months ago I wrote about Kips Castle, which is located in parts of both Verona (8 acres) and Montclair, New Jersey (2 acres).

Frederic Ellsworth Kip was a wealthy man who had his home constructed to look like a Norman castle. In the 1980's it was inhabited by a weird religious cult.

The property is now part of the New Jersey Green Acres program and is an Essex County Park. Anyone can stroll around the grounds from dawn until dusk, although the interiors are usually prohibited. Occasionally the castle is open for special events, especially during the holiday season. 

More photos after the jump!

Wordish/OutdoorWednesday: Former Nike Base Becomes Art Park!

During the Cold War between the U.S. and the Soviet Union during the 1950's and 1960's, there were multiple Nike Missile sites in the U.S., including several in New Jersey.

As the cold war started to fade in the 1970's, several of these Nike bases were abandoned. In 1974 the federal government sold the one in Livingston to the county for $1.00. Interestingly, instead of building condos or strip malls upon it (which is what would happen today), the county came up with a unique idea: convert the former missile base into art studios at greatly reduced rents to artists.