Lovingly and carefully they set up their treasured collection of Christmas trees and holiday decorations, displayed both indoors and out. More than a dozen theme trees, individually decked with gold, lace, bears, toys, animals and angels, mingle with wreaths, color-coordinated centerpieces and other décor to provide holiday cheer in every room of the house.

The decorations come out of storage after Thanksgiving and open house begins the first week in December. "One day last year, nearly 200 people came through," Douglas exclaims. Her warmth is exceeded only by her depth of character.

She says candidly, "When I started collecting, I did it compulsively. I was an alcoholic. Once I started, I couldn't stop."