Sights and Sounds of Christmas Housewalk

December 1 & 2, 2012

2011 Houses:

Jerry and D’Rae (Schmidt) Dennis – 911 8th St. SE – “All Roads Lead Home at Christmas”

D’Rae and Jerry’s beautiful home was built in 1991 and D’Rae’s love for decorating is evident in all the finishing touches. Notice the oak flooring and doors used through much of the four bedroom home, plus the handmade cove in the formal living room. Love of beach and sun inspired the master suite, so look for the special “beach Christmas tree.” A new backyard with fire pit completes this fabulous and very livable home. D’Rae and Jerry’s decorating team includes:  Marisa Woitas, Shara Schmidt, Jenni Schmidt, Bev Barrie, Pat Edwards, Erin Edwards, and Katie Schmidt.

Sue McKay – 205 10th Ave. NE – “Village By the Lake”

Sue McKay is the third owner of this special home built in the early 1950′s featuring original, wood built-in architectural features and Kasota stone. Of particular interest is the corner fireplace and windows large enough to enjoy views of Clear Lake. Village by the Lake is a great theme andSue’s special attraction is an extensive collection of antique fiesta dishes handed down from her family. Assisting Sue with decorating are:  Cheryl Milbrath, Carol Ulschmid, Joann Brennen, Lisa Zika, Lou Gusts, Lynette Marble, and Amy Borneke.

Keith and Sherry Hiller – 12835 385th Ave. – Family Memories

The Hiller family designed and built this home in 2004 when they first moved to Waseca. Towering oak trees nestle the house on a secluded five site just northof town. The four bedroom, four bathhouse is filled with many amenities including a theatre room, a bar, andsitting space with two sided fireplace. Wonderful woods are used throughout the house, particularly with cherry cabinets. Take special notice of the master suite complete with its own fireplace and Jacuzzi tub and shower. Decorating team members are:  Penny Voight, Sue Boje, Tammy Collins, and Cathie Glynn.

Rev. Paige Whitney – 310 E. Elm Ave. – My First Home for the Holidays

Pastor Paige selected a fitting theme for her celebration of her first non-apartment home, and first Christmas in Waseca. Built in 1963 as the parsonage for Grace Lutheran Church, Paige’s four bedroom home was recent remodeled to serve her needs by expert craftsmen, members of Grace. Notice the beautiful hardwood floors on the 2nd level and private retreat created in the landscaped backyard. Assisting Paige with decorating are:  Diane Beckmann, Robin Dulas, Katie Krause, Charity Hall, Lindsay Stolen, and Lauren Davis.

Carol and Rick Wobschall – 718 Third Street SW – Believe

This is the Wobschall home’s second appearance in the Christmas Housewalk and Carol is such a fabulous decorator she has entirely transformed their home. The inspiration for decorating comes from the natural world, the Arts, and her extensive travels. Bookcases and desks abound, burnished dark like the oak floors. Not to miss is a “snow globe” in the sun room overlooking the back yard, a gallery of original art in the hall, and her collection of pink depression glass in the master bedroom. Helping Carol decorate are: Andrew Breck, Edna Cook, Laura Williams, and Jackie Peters.

The Sights and Sounds of Christmas Housewalkhas become a grand tradition for Waseca.
In 21 years over 100 homes, some large, some smaller have opened their doors to the public for touring. Tour members come from the metro area, Rochester, Mankato and beyondto spend the day.
A variety of reasons bring couples, friends, mother-daughter duos, andgroups to spend a day in warm welcoming homes, shops and restaurants. For some the tradition to come to Wasecathe first weekendof December is the beginning of their Christmas experience. For others it is the inspiration they experience in viewing others creativity. Some are looking for ideas on remodeling as well as decorating in their own homes. Whatever the reason, goodwill among people seems to abound.
One of a kind gifts at moderate costs, an artists exhibit and the WasecaArt Centers hospitality work together with homeowners,churches, and the business community to support this annual fundraiser of the Waseca Art Council.

507-835-1701
410 North State Street
www.wasecaartscouncil.org