Everything, All At Once, Forever is an installation of new plastic debris sculptures created specifically for exhibition at the Figge Art Museum by Aurora Robson. Runs through January 15, 2012. www.figgeart.org
Among many things the Davenport IA museum store has are handmade lamp work flowers by Lithuanian artisans.
The Missouri Botanical Garden www.missouribotanicalgarden.org The Garden Gate Shop stocks home furnishings, plants, books, and garden accessories. Shaw Nature Reserve's Visitor Center has a wide selection of books for every interest and all ages. The number of December activities could keep you busy for an entire week.
Johnson Sauk Trail State Park, located between Annawan and Kewanee on Route 78 has winter activities. The summer hiking trails become 3 miles of cross country ski trails. The hills are ideal for sledding and the lake is excellent for ice fishing or ice skating. (Note: all activities are unsupervised)Bishop Hill, IL, an Illinois state historical site (see link to the right), has several holiday events including the Julmarknad Christmas Market on December 3 & 4. Shops are decorated and have a variety of beautiful items. Plus, hear special music, sample Swedish foods and stroll the streets and village park.
Side note: Congratulations to Linda and Crystal, owners of "The Filling Station" restaurant in Bishop Hill the past 18 years.
The Garden Conservancy www.gardenconservancy.org has numerous garden books, DVDs and their calender for sale. Most small towns have Christmas celebrations throughout December. They offer winter entertainment and locally made gifts and food.
Looking for a unique family gift:
My friend, Nancy, is taking her brood on a weekend at Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort. www.chestnutmtn.com
My nephew's family all gathered at a State Park for the holiday staying at the lodge which has a pool, restaurant and entertainment. Check out: Starved Rock State Park, Utica IL.
This is a beautiful park and they have a wonderful lodge. Check the state's web site for particulars - such as when some things are closed due to hunting season. www.starvedrocklodge.com
The area of LaSalle County, IL, has many interesting sites and December is chocked full of events. Parks, water, mansions and great food. www.enjoylasallecounty.com
Many events are free - others require reservations. Broaden your winter gardening experiences in your area of the world. Sometimes the neighborhood events are pretty darn stellar.
| (all photos are from the mentioned web sites) | ||
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