Well, we finished the series in record breaking time. Downton Abbey was certainly deserving of the title, Masterpiece Theatre. I know we came late to the party, but that’s the beauty of 21st Century media, we get to watch it when we want instead of when the network tells it they will air it.  I have a new friend at work this year who is an avid Downton fan and it has been fun to share the adventure with him.  As I was surfing the Internet, I came upon an advertisement for a new exhibit in New York, which features the Downton Abbey sets and wardrobe. What? No Way!! Janet had no hesitation agreeing this would be perfect to go with our annual 5th Avenue department store window walk. I told Cristos he should take the family since NY is only a few hours away.  Though tempting, he said they might be able to do it in February when they’re booked to cruise out of NY.

We went down and visited Jim and Autumn. This time Janet enjoyed watching our traditional superhero movies as we chose Wonder Woman and Guardians of the Galaxy. A few times she has had to endure our geek fests, but she did great!

The next day we headed into New York for our 10:30 ticket time. Turns out we are certainly not the only Downton Abbey fans that were excited for this exhibit. We arrived at 10:00 and the line reminded me of waiting to enter a Broadway theatre.  We waited patiently until all the 10:00 ticket holders had entered, and were duly rewarded when 10:30 arrived and our group was allowed entrance. Immediately Carson and Mrs. Hughes greeted us via video screen to begin our tour. We began in the servant’s quarters downstairs in rooms that contained the actual sets. We proceeded upstairs to the family’s area that held artifacts from the set and displays of the characters. The bedroom was the only set on display, as much of the filming of the family was done in the actual house. The upper floor contained many of the dresses the sisters and mother had worn throughout the show.  The whole thing was totally worth it and I sent Cristos a selfie just to make him jealous.

After lunch, we headed over to 5th Avenue for our walk. This year’s windows were all astounding. I think I enjoyed Sak’s the best with its tribute to Snow White. This really is a fantastic ritual we’ve begun, and I enjoy it more every year. It’s especially fun when we can combine it with other fun things, like a traveling exhibit. I know that this opportunity would not have existed while we lived in Kansas City which is why living here is so cool.

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” – Helen Keller