It all started in 1987.  While Christmas shopping with a friend, I saw these neat lighted houses in a gift store.  I thought I would wait until they went on sale – but – they never did!  I know as I wore a path to the door, even getting to know the sales people very well. 

Two years later, I broke down and bought the original Christmas in the City set of three, at regular price.  The collection has grown since then!  Surprised?  I now collect every major lighted building collection Dept 56 has ever produced.  However, my favorite is still Christmas in the City.  Unlike years ago when I bought every building, I now collect only the ones I like.  I even dabble in the secondary market on Ebay.

I also collect lite-ups, Snowbabies, Merry Makers, Cold Cast porcelain, and other Dept 56 products.  Many of my friends think I’m nuts and they might be right.  But what can I say, I’m obsessed with Department 56!

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