Irvine Ranch, postcards, El Toro, OCHS, gifts

I was at the Irvine Ranch Historic Park (a.k.a. Irvine Ranch Headquarters, a.k.a. Myford) yesterday, and noticed these amazing old poinsettias growing along the old driveway to the Irvine family home. (The home is long gone, but a replica has been built on the same location in the form of the Katie Wheeler Branch Library.)

The second image here shows the old gate into the Irvine Ranch House with a younger, but still beautiful, poinsettia plant. Sort of puts you in the mood for Christmas, no?

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For the first time in a long time, there's going to be a vintage postcard fair held here in Orange County. The O.C. Winterfest Postcard Show will be held this Saturday, Dec, 11th, 10am-6pm, at the Holiday Inn & Suites, 2932 E. Nutwood Ave., Fullerton. Admission is $5. I'll probably be there myself.
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Later that evening, the Heritage Hill Historic Park in El Toro (known to those just off the turnip truck as "Lake Forest") will offer holiday candelight tours amid their charming 19th Century buildings. Along the luminaria-lit paths you'll find Victorian-costumed carolers, storytellers, refreshments, Santa, and more. Admission is $3 for children (3-12yrs) and $4 for adults. The park is located at 25151 Serrano Rd. (Yes, it's behind a shopping center, but it's still quite a delightful place.)

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Don't forget to attend the special Orange Countiana meeting of the Orange County Historical Society this Thursday. (See my Nov. 30 post for details.) As editor, Phil Brigandi has really breathed new life into the idea that Orange County needs its own historical journal and has provided us with an excellent example of the same. He and some of our contributors will be on hand to talk about their articles for the journal and sign your copy. And remember: Extra copies of Orange Countiana make excellent gifts for friends and family. (Okay, okay!... I'll back off!)