Alpspitze is part of the Bavarian Alps which separates Germany from Austria.  It's been described as the perfect holiday get-away and ideal German ski destination, due to the many beautiful Bavarian chalets that offer breathtaking Alpine views. The Department 56 artists have meticulously captured the charm of the Alpsitize inns with the darling Alpine Ski Lodge. Flower boxes, 2nd story balcony, and scalloped details on the window hoods and roof fascia are just part of the iconic elements found on this lodge. A friendly St. Bernard dog greets guests at the ski rental door. An outdoor fireplace of stone complete with roaring fire warms those coming off the mountain.  And every ski lodge needs to have skiers. This year's new accessory piece Love on the Slopes shows a man and a woman out for a morning ski session.  

Hand knit sweaters are the ideal garment in the Alpine region (and in the Midwest during those cold winter nights). The warmest sweaters use wool sheered from local sheep. Thus, mills line the Alpine country side, utilizing falling mountain streams for the process of creating yarn from wool. The Alpen Woolen Mill features a turning water wheel which spins over the adjacent brook. Window boxes filled with sculpted greens and berries, along with sculpted garland and bows add a festive trim. To complete the scene consider adding on the Shepherding the Flock accessory piece.  Shepherding the Flock shows a shepherd herding three sheep with his trusty sheep dog.  

Christopher Radko has just announced the new signed ornament for 2016!

Carrying the Magic features a regally dressed Santa in a red and gold coat accented with white pearls. He is carrying a pretty green Christmas tree over his shoulder. This piece will be signed by the top Christopher Radko designers Mario and Joseph, making it extra special. This ornament is 6'' in size and sells for $60. Tannenbaum is the only gift shop in the Midwest offering this signed ornament. We only have a limited quantity available, so call or email us your order today!

The Day the Crayons Came Home follows a similar format as the first book.  Again, the crayons have written letters to Duncan, their owner; however, this time the letters are regarding to crayons that have been left out of their box.  For example, the yellow and orange crayon describe melting in the sun, the maroon crayon was left in the couch, and the tan crayon was eaten by the dog.  These books are great for young children who are just learning their colors, older children who will appreciate the humor in the story, and for any adults who enjoys reading or a comical twist on life as a crayon.