Sable Hound Hollow ‘s Winter Reverie

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

Here is another beautiful, full of fun region not to miss during the Christmas season and after. Sable Hound Hollow ‘s Winter Reverie may be open until the end of January or at least until January 10 Honey Heart told me so keep that in mind to plan a visit. The whole site is enchanting . The windlight sets the tone as the snow is sparkling and the décor is charming. There is a list of Things to do here and the last line expresses the vision ,” Bask in the peace and serenity”. 

The sleigh ride gives an overview of the area so hop on to enjoy the winter foliage and see the sites you don’t want to miss. . 

Many little resting places allow for photo opportunities. I love the mushroom theme that show up among the trees and shrubs. I passed a tree lot and made sure to return there to find that all the trees are free to gather along with some wreathes and other décor. Don’t miss it!

A large Dragon flew over head at one point and later I found its resting spot. Ride a Unicorn pony on the carousel . Different ponies are walking on different days and give a gift if you follow the directions . It is evident that this is an ethereal place with dragons and unicorns. No wonder the owners say ,”Sable Hound Hollow's Winter Reverie is where frostlit wonder meets quiet magic. “ I fully believe it ! 

Skating on the very large pond gives one a chance to listen to the music , enjoy the ice and all the decorations along the edge.

If you join the group there are two advent calendars to look for. At the entrance are directions for a Snowflake Crown Hunt also. Click for directions.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Sable%20Hound%20Hollow/55/217/3247

I had a chance to get over to the Premier Business Center where Jardinalexis hosted a Whitney Houston SL (Whitney Hexem)live singer skating party. It was a lovely time with many attendees enjoying every minute as usual.

After that I made a stop over at the Bellisseria Fairgrounds which has been transformed into the Bellisseria Animal Sanctuary annual winterwonderland event by our cute Hammies. It is lovely and offered more skating opportunities at the Sunday party where Fuyuko '冬子' Amano (Wintergeist Resident) was spinning her holiday tunes for us. It was great fun. Take a walk on the winding paths and stop by the fire for some cocoa.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bellisseria%20Fairgrounds/149/226/24

Gemma Cleanslate
 

Calas Christmas

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

If you have not been to the spectacular Calas Christmas yet you are missing a must. Those of us who are group members wait with high expectation the opening day of any of Calas Galadhon holiday builds. Join the group for wonderful activities all year long at their many home regions. This is the 17th year of this Christmas installation where special events take place and is also a magical experience every time you visit.

 

Many of the familiar sites are from the very beginning but there are new additions every year to be explored. At the portal pick up the notecard with many landmarks of sites on the regions that you won’t want to miss.

 

But then, enter the portal and move through and follow the peppermint signs and prepare yourself for wonders!

Later you can come back and take a ski tour if you like but this tour is a must especially if you come with a sweetheart or friend or alone. Other modes of transport are a fun reindeer ride that carries you along the snow then into the air . Another great way to see the regions is from the balloon ride. Both are enjoyable.

The principal hangouts are the skating lake always filled with skaters using their own huds or the available skating balls. A group member can receive a set of skates one time .
 

 

Along the edges of the lake one finds many resting opportunities at a fireside seating or a coffee stand. If you love eating in a train dining car you can. Several smaller pavilions are also available for eating or sitting by a fireplace sipping champagne.

 

 

One cannot pass by without stopping to gaze at the tall shining Christmas tree with all the gifts and decorations underneath. Nearby is the Disney island with a castle and Mickey and Minny waving and Cinderella and her prince by the coach. Look closely and see the many other characters in various places on the land. Check the tower.

And now back to the stunning breathtaking Pavilion. Enter and gasp at the scenery from the dance floor to the tree room to the right and the little cafe with bar to the right. Dancers use the floor when there is no party going on at all hours. You will visit often. The notecard in your pocket will give you other options for photos and activities and hints to make your visit pleasurable. Have your cameras ready and prepare by dressing warmly for the outside frost but elegantly for the Pavilion. 

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/MIDWINTER%202/249/13/3001

I had time to stop over to the Lindens Winterwonderland. Don’t forget to make a visit to explore the regions which are filled with gifts , games and so much more.A teleport will take you where you want to go on this region There is a snowflake hunt going on and you will find the necessary hud and information at the entrance. Next to that is the Swaginator hud. This gives an exploration of the Bellisseria public regions to find more gifts . . I love the first one which is a wearable bulldog  that I love.( No more hints!!) Good luck . On the skating pond get the free ice skates with various account types getting different ice skates. They know who we are lol! 

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Winter%20Wonderland%204/182/79/46

Gemma Cleanslate 

 

Joyful Gardens

 

By Netera Landar

 

Joyful Garden’s creator, Hedy Heartsong, cleverly shaped the main landmass into a tree. The nearby islands are in the form of a bird and a squirrel. Call up the sim map to see for yourself. At the landing point, you’ll find a sleeping fox in an old tree’s hollowed-out space. 

 

Take the grass path toward the gazebo, past the deer, and through the concrete and metal fence. Carefully walk up the stone stairs, as the weather changes. An adult wolf howls as you seek shelter from the rain under the stone ruin garden. A small bird drinks water from the double-tiered stone fountain, unafraid of the statue of a fox that is perched on top. Wildflowers are scattered in this area. Just beyond, an umbrella, blanket, and pillow await you for a mid-day meal.

Down the hill, you’ll find a very detailed garden setting. Floral posters are positioned in a garden of red geraniums, white flowers, and taller greenery. A sprinkler sends out bursts of water, nurturing the flower bed. Four benches welcome guests in front of a four-tiered fountain where butterflies gather. Poinsettias flank the benches, adding a calm burst of color. A piano plays calming music.

To the right, you’ll find the butterfly house. A white netting keeps them in their glass-and-stone domain. They flutter their wings so close to you that you can almost reach out and hold them. Sit on the leaf chair and watch them land on their food plates.

The second greenhouse is decorated for Christmas, complete with tea and pastries on a linen-covered table. Sit with friends on the settee or pale silk armchairs. A Christmas tree with gifts stands in the corner. Tassels hold back the drapery to let in the day’s light. Several other greenhouses are filled with bright, blooming flowers.

The academe awaits its students. Perfect for a small gathering of a virtual garden club. 

To the right of the small gazebo is a cozy garden tucked away under a tree covered in purple leaves. Black bistro chairs invite you to chat with a friend and have a cold glass of iced tea.  A short walk away, two Koi swim in a freshwater pond among the lily pads and two fountains. A Magnolia tree shades the small patio near the pond. On one side, you can be seated at bistro tables with umbrellas, or at a rectangular gazebo covered in Wisteria. 

 

You’ll find three children patiently waiting for an ice cream cone at the Bunny Scoops truck. Ride the Kosmotron Rocket Ride and listen to the chosen music. Then climb aboard the colorful Ferris Wheel. Click the green button on the control panel to get it working. Recall childhood memories without standing in line for an hour. Don’t forget to click the coin slot to start the dolphin ride. You even hear them. 

You’ll love the Enchanted Garden maze. It’s another inviting garden. Walk into the center of the maze to find a beautiful bird statue, a curious bunny, garden cover, and flowers. A quiet garden to get away and reflect.

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Joyful/131/91/1501 

 

Netera Landar 

 

Yosemite in Winter

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

The snow fell in Yosemite and the ground and mountains are covered. I went over to see the beauty of it . You will want to stop in the Visitor Center and pick up a Yosemite Park Navigator Hud.Then I suggest you take a walk around the paths to see what is going on. Or , you may want to pick a horse to take you for a ride instead. I did run into a Mama bear and two cubs wandering so keep an eye tho she seems calm when avatars come by. A cute skating rink is ready with free skates if you do not bring your own.

When I left the center I saw Santa practicing climbing on the rock wall behind the building. 

 

Some campers have arrived for the winter holiday and fires were burning to keep them warm. The playground is open and kids were playing. Lots of families visit Yosemite at this time. There are so many places to play on this region. 

After visiting that area I recommend opening the hud and choosing Glacier.Pass. to visit. Up here again there are some cute cabins for rental . 

The ski lift is open and there is a coffee stop at the bottom so refresh before you start down the hill again. If you prefer a sled ride that is available also. Visitors are always welcome at Yosemite even if you are not renting or camping so feel free to visit. The hud lets you get a look at many other areas there. Have fun! 

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Forever%20Wild/137/135/2437

Gemma Cleanslate 

 

 

 

Places 

Christmas Lane

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

 

Christmas Lane has an extensive collection of décor for you if you are still looking. Shop after shop is chuck full of interesting items, Santas, gnomes, baubles and bulbs...outdoor scenes are great. Tiny shops and cafes and goodies , carts are for sale at good prices for your property. Some would look great beside a skating pond. I saw a hot tub with a counter for coffee after the dip and near by a red checkered spread on a Christmas bed.

 

Inside one of the little shop I saw another bed with a very pretty plaid coverlet. On the walkway sat a santa’s old fashioned car with an elf riding along with a huge bag of gifts in the back seat… reindeer on strike?

I think that this Market has the most gachas lined up for fun shopping that I have seen anywhere. The Black Friday sales vendors may still be there too. It was yesterday when I landed. So many lovely values on sale there so I hope you get to see them.

It is right across from the Advent Calendar where I will be visiting everyday but one needs the group . Join it so you do not miss her specials. She has some lovely outdoor Pine trees and snow covered trees with and without lights ,and many many Christmas trees all decorated in a variety of colors and lights.

One more cute market to visit if you are looking for odd cute Santas or elves , I saw fairies and even a Krampus or two. Angels hovered and little elves on snowskis. All were chubby and sweet and a bit different than most .

Take a look at the little skaters on the pond and the many other unique creatures moving about the snow . 

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Paris%20Land/108/19/2313

There are so many wonderful items for sale in markets across the grid . I have chosen a few that I like to visit every year and new ones too. Shop and Hop is open now and many lovely places to have fun and relax I will be checking out from now to Christmas. My wallet is getting empty from not resisting the temptations I experienced this year. There is always that one snow globe that I never saw before and just had to have or that outfit that is just too good a bargain! At some of the shops you will see the poster for places to visit . There are 3 notecards full , not to mention the long list in the Destinations guide. Have a great time trying to get to at least some!! I will let you know about some I did get to visit.

Gemma Cleanslate
 

 

Tex Tree Farm

 

By Gemma Cleanslate, 

 

 

Time to cut the tree! Tex has so many rich green fir trees on his lot Tex Tree Farm just waiting for the chop! The blades are sharpened and ready so bring the family or partner or go alone to get that tree on a sled and choose the décor.

It is so much fun picking out that special one, tall or short for the home or outside. I absolutely love visiting this farm. 

Next move over to the gorgeous decorations , your choice of many varieties. Take a good look at all of them. Directions are clear to help you decorate. Santa seems to be keeping an eye on those who come.

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Larsen/83/211/103

 

I noticed something new there. I saw a cable line and went over to check. Sure enough there is a cable car leading down the hill and over the highway. Tex has a new restaurant, The Glacier Restaurant so don’t miss it.

You can have a lovely meal down there in a relaxing atmosphere and warm up, nice addition to the farm. After that I was off to Under the Tree Shop right at the top of the hill overlooking the farm. This is such a great store for anything you need. There have been some other changes here too.

 

Outside I found a cute snack shack in case you need to rest after or before your shopping in the store. It is for sale too with all the décor. Across the way I saw a lovely little skating pond.

Next to the big store is a Red Barn with animals to visit. Inside the same wonderful Christmas décor is still there . Many kids games and toys are available for purchase. I ran into Tex there while checking them out and asked him about the changes He said he would have Peppermint get in touch. The kitchen is still full of luscious dishes available for your holiday table and implements for cooking and serving. The arrangement has changed a bit but getting around is no problem. The various rooms are easier to see all the goodies there.

One new room is filled to the ceiling with vendors on the wall with an almost unimaginable display of décor you can choose to buy according to the number, Gachas! Samples are displayed on the floor. It all goes on and on! You have to go experience it all! Remember to take.The next room is filled with lovely furniture for the holidays, sofas, chairs , dining tables and more. 

 

PeppermintTwinkles Resident the shop owner told me in answer to my question to Tex , “yes we have updated the main store and added 9 large Skydomes full of gatchas that we had a surplus of. The new Teleport indicates which skyedome is Christmas, Easter, Halloween and we will be adding a summer one next year. “ more than that , “We also own all the Seaside Resaturantes in SL.Later this month we will open ( in the red barn by the main store) the Xmas cafe shop that will include additional non gatcha Christmas items. “ I will have to go back for that too.I did check out the Gacha Store 2and 3 where I found more, larger fun items at 2 ! Time to move on!These are very busy people! I will have to visit all the sites after Christmas! I cannot even imagine the inventory! Plan time LOL !

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Larsen/49/30/112

 

Gemma Cleanslate

 

Snuggles

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

 

A few weeks ago I stopped over at Snuggles but the boxes were not open yet for Christmas but now they are. I love going to Snuggles the main store and the holiday stores . I need lots of time to traverse the huge area of outdoor décor set all over the region . Starting from the barn of Santas that is very busy with Santas clinging to the walls and climbing outside ,to the inside where a variety of Santas sit waiting for shoppers.

From there paths lead in all directions with a myriad of outdoor scenes from huge go tiny that you might like on your property. There are snowmen, animals, cute little sleighs. Large ornaments and so many more choices of décor depending on your taste.

 On a pond there are skaters of different types and I saw poor Santa fallen on the ice and his pack lying near by. If you would like a path liner of large candy canes in red or green you will see them along the paths.

After walking the lanes be prepared for the immense gift shop . Outside are all kinds of Snowmen of different styles .The shop goes on and on. The walls are lined with all sorts of gorgeous cards to pass along to sweethearts or friends or business people you know. Many of the cards offer changeable verses. Song cards play the whole songs. Don’t miss the garland and weath area next to the christmas tree section 

The tables are filled with sweet gifts and boxes to pack them in. Of course a whole shelf of Snow globes and flower domes caught my attention. There are bears galore. If you are looking for beautiful non seasonal globes or other gifts you can tp down over to the main Snuggles shop where there are beautiful statuettes of birds and other animals etc . I love that place too for the lovely choices.

The gift shop is on another region but visible from the paths.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Snuggles%20Holidays/14/187/27

Gemma Cleanslate