Located on Fourth Street East in Carlyle, the dining room in Rae and Dana Fenwick’s residence is jaw dropping and sensational.
The Observer had the opportunity to recently visit Dana and her daughter Lisa Morrison. She has a detailed display of both Christmas and other village ornaments and themes.
It began five years ago with Dana receiving the gift of a Christmas village. Steadily, the number of high-quality collectibles has grown and her own villages now consist of over 100 lighted structures and several hundred figurines.
These collectibles are manufactured and distributed by two major suppliers, Lemax and Department 56. Decorations can be purchased either online or at various department stores.
Immediately after Remembrance Day, Dana starts unpacking the collection and it takes nearly 100 hours to get everything arranged and perfectly in place.
“Daughter Lisa is my creative decorator, Kara is my electrician, and husband Rae has constructed the benches and shelving. It is truly a family team effort,” Dana said.
The ornaments that have been accumulated represent various themes. Winter placements include Santa Claus, the North Pole, Frosty the Snowman, The Grinch, a ski lodge, and a toboggan hill. There is also a train station, farm, golf course, dog lodge, gas station, lighthouse, library and a post office.
A fire station and a STARS Air Ambulance helicopter are also on display. There is a carnival with a merry go round and a Ferris wheel. All buildings are lighted and many have moving parts. A simply spectacular exhibit.
Adds Dana: “I have eight grandchildren and every one of them has their own interest in subjects they can relate to. Mitchell, ice fishing, Makenna, school yard, Josh, restaurant, Drew, hockey and a goalie, and Carter, a skating rink. Emma, curling, Olivia, the carnival rides, and Lincoln, the dog lodge.”
Dana really enjoys adding to her villages and is always on the lookout for attractive buildings and figurines. Like everyone, she has a Christmas wish list. This year, she would like to add both a drive-in movie theatre and a hospital. She concludes, “I really enjoy collecting these hand-crafted lighted villages and the accompanying pieces. It is a great hobby and I plan on growing my collection for many years to come.”
