Category Archives: Featured Columns

The classic tale of Santa Claus, allegedly a legend for those who don’t believe, warms the hearts of people all around the globe and entices the tradition of making a home as welcoming as possible for Santa to visit on his big night. In doing this, families also get to enjoy the grandeur of a cozy home that provides a warm aura all through the holiday months, beckoning the scents of fresh baked sugar cookies, decadent hot chocolate, and homemade reindeer treats for Rudolph and his hard-working pals! It’s especially important for Santa to feel right at home while he works hard to deliver presents to all the boys and girls around the world, ensuring that the comforting interior of a home feels like stepping into the North Pole for ole Saint Nick.

“Deck the Halls” has become a classic carol that most passersby hum cheerfully to themselves as they stroll on a crisp, chilly December afternoon, bringing a rosy flush to their cheeks while Christmas shopping. However, the song also breathes life into the halls of many homes during the joyous holiday season, bringing the art of creating a feeling into the real world. Many feelings go through a visitor upon walking into the stunningly festive decor of the Missouri governor’s mansion at Christmas time: awe, amazement, pure joy, and a warm feeling of pride and belonging. Grand halls decked with historical holiday ribbons rich in color dazzle the garland and trees head to toe with warm, sparkling lights and ornaments – a tradition unlike any other.