Goodbye, Downtown Abbey

If you happen to be a Downtown Abbey fan, then you know there are only 2 episodes left.  That's it.  No more.  The end.  After 6 seasons, the amazingly popular British series that offers a window to aristocratic life of the 1910s and 1920s will conclude.  It's been a surprisingly huge hit in both the UK and the US, keeping viewers glued to their TVs to see the latest developments in the Crawley family and the loyal staff running the great house.

With such a notable drama soon reaching its finale, I couldn't help wondering about the appeal of Downtown Abbey to so many people (including your very own perch librarian).  There have been a number of period dramas (Death Comes to Pemberley, Mad Men, and Turn being among the more recent ones), but none have gotten quite the devoted following as Downton Abbey.  Why?

Firstly, you just can't beat the setting.  The drama's fictional Downton Abbey is in reality the grand Highclere Castle.  That ornate, imposing edifice planted in the middle of the verdant English countryside with no other buildings to be seen for miles around.  Those sumptuous rooms with historic decor and furnishings, the high ceilings and large windows, the rich colors and fabrics.  Highclere is a place from another age.

Then there are all those gorgeous outfits.  Even someone like me who's not a fashionista can't help ogling those classic dresses and suits.  During a time when people go to the store in pajama pants, it's refreshing to see both men and women elegantly dressed, whether they're going into town or staying home for dinner.  There's something to be said about being smartly attired and having the proper manners to go with your look.

Most importantly, though, I think the main appeal of Downton Abbey lies with the characters.  From Lord Grantham and Lady Mary to Mrs. Hughes and Mr. Bates, we are drawn to these human characters with real, multiple layers.  None of them live fairy tale lives and must deal with various problems that arise as they go through difficult and changing times.  We want to see them overcome their obstacles and come out on top.  It gives us hope that no matter what is your station in life, privileged or not, there's hope that things will work out well in the end.

So, prepare the tea and get ready for the end of Downton Abbey.  Savor what's left, and enjoy the conclusion.  Should you experience any withdrawal symptoms, you can always stop by the library to borrow the DVDs and re-watch the series.

With best wishes for a good Downton ending from the perch.

V-Day--It's Here Again

Whether you love it or hate it, Valentine's Day is here again.  No matter where you go, there are hearts, roses, chocolates, and teddy bears all around.  You may even start to think something's wrong with your vision because the only colors you see are red and pink.

I probably don't have to offer suggestions on gifts or things to do since we're bombarded with advertisements everywhere, but I thought it would be interesting to go outside the box and see how Valentine's Day is celebrated in other parts of the world.  Some traditions are a bit different from those in the U.S., and if you're thinking of doing something new with your sweetie, you might get a few ideas.  For example:

• Austria--Men give their loved ones bouquets of flowers. 
• Denmark--Pressed white snowdrop flowers are exchanged.
• Italy--Romantic dinners and an exchange of gifts are the norm.
• Philippines--Mass wedding ceremonies are performed.
• South Africa--Women pin the names of their loved ones on their sleeves.
• South Korea--Women give men chocolates, candies, and flowers (men reciprocate on March 14).
• Taiwan--Men give women chocolates, candies, and flowers (women reciprocate on March 14).

If you want to learn more about how other countries celebrate V-Day, check out the following websites:

10 Strange and Wonderful Valentine's Day Traditions from Around the World

10 Valentine's Day Traditions All Around the World

Valentine's Day Around the World

Wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day from the perch.