With Valentine's Day coming, it's time to take down those wilting, drooping, browning decorations that went up in November and December. Boston should have an official year-end holiday "Un-decorating Day" or weekend where everyone takes a look at their winter accessories and decides if they still look good and can stay or if some adjustment or removal is needed.
Walking around, we found different takes on decorating the front of buildings. These folks decided to go with the next holiday and added a splash of Valentine Glam to their doorway.
In some cases, the decorating theme was "Winter" rather than "Christmas" and this planter was maintained so it still looks good and is still a very welcome sight on our daily strolls.
On the other hand, this garland has stayed too long at the party. This photo was taken in late January and suggests that perhaps the date for "Un-decorating Day" should be the first weekend in February.
Traditionally, The Beacon Hill Civic Association has held their "Undecorating Weekend – Pancake Breakfast" in January. That's great for some fading decorations. But, many of the wreaths, planters, and window boxes with less traditional themes are in great shape and continue to add a splash of bright to the dull streetscape. Those should stay around a bit longer.
This year we've had Roses in December and snowdrops and green shoots popping up in January. This weekend would be our normal time to start looking for those first signs of spring. So in our minds this is also a weekend to take a look at your winter decor and decide if it is still a happy addition to your home or if it's time to take it away and think about the next season. In case you're wondering, the Spring Equinox is March 20, 2016.
Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon
Details:
Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2016 Penny & Ed Cherubino