Mary Poppins Returns with a little bit of Downton Abbey


Nanny in charge with one of her charges
When I was five years old, my sister Sarah was four, and Lucy even younger, our mother interviewed a nanny. Sarah and I immediately decided we did not like her. We couldn’t see why we needed her and she was bound to tell us what to do. In those days, nannies wore a uniform and, with my mother’s help, Nanny chose a purple and white narrow striped dress with a wide belt, teamed with a classic purple coat. She looked very smart and was completely unfazed by our attitude. We, in traditional style, did our best to play our mother against Nanny to get the best result for us and thus we set off in our lives together.

Let’s go fly a kite!
Mary Poppins has to be the ultimate Nanny with lots of magic to sprinkle into everyone’s life. She expected good behaviour but in return she made everything possible. In some ways it is a classic Christmas film and therefore entirely appropriate that the new version should be released now. The traditional London ‘pea souper’ fogs, the damp streets, alleyways, rooftops and chimneys celebrate London’s skyline and it all ends with cherry blossom. Jack, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s character twirls around with his ladder, with supporting retinue of agile lamplighters, although I am not sure that Dick van Dyke who returns with Mary Poppins, doesn’t steal the new film … a heck of a trooper. By way of mention, Highclere has quite a lot of chimneys and ladders… but without the dancers.

We have a lot of chimney pots but I don’t think our dancing would qualify us for walk-on parts in any film. We do have plenty of umbrellas though.
Sadly, though, at the end of the film, Mary Poppins leaves. Ours remained. After Lucy, three more sisters came along to join our family and, whilst our own Nanny unfortunately could not fly without the help of an airline, she did bring light and fun into all we did together. We certainly flew kites, played games and her wit is unique and very forthright – she comes from Yorkshire.

The Labradors of Highclere and Dogton Abbey meet Nanny… from a series of books inspired by our dogs and Viking Cruises!
Like Mary Poppins, Nanny also had a certain affiliation for chimneys in that she was very much in charge of looking after the chimney for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. Perhaps it was our parents’ way of ensuring that the six of us didn’t stray too close to the fireplace but,whatever the motive, it was certainly Nanny’s personal domain. Even today, when she is with us at Highclere for Christmas, it is her favourite spot, in a comfortable armchair, her knitting and a small table pulled close.

Nanny tasting the Baileys on behalf of Father Christmas
After bringing up all of us, she moved on to look after my sister Sarah’s children. She remains imperturbable and retains her often quixotic approaches.She claims she has given up alcohol. I have no idea what she means because it clearly does not include gin. Two fingers of gin (and don’t be mean) with tonic water, ice and lemon is on the menu at 6pm sharp. She also likes rosé wine but, specifically her own take on it. She asks Luis to pour her some white wine and top it up with red wine which raises some eyebrows and splutters of horror from assorted guests as she mixes a delicious white Mâcon with a very decent Bordeaux. Rather like Mary Poppins however, Nanny is always right and does not change course, whilst Luis doesn’t bat an eye. At Christmas a nice glass of Baileys is added to the mix which I once caught her sharing with chief elf Sally whilst the latter was trying to decorate the saloon.

Spratt or Gooding or of course Jeremy Swift
Watching Mary Poppins with my own, now grown up, son, I spotted “Spratt” from Downing Abbey as one of the characters which was rather fun.
Of course the teaser trailer for the Downton Abbey film has also now been released too. The cameras pan around our home circling up towards the towers and chimneys, giving them a gorgeous golden autumnal glow.
It’s not yet time for Father Christmas, but Nanny may well be watching, so no misbehaving!
From all of us here at Highclere, a very happy Christmas!
Another wonderful blog, I watch Mary Poppins it’s got the warm feeling of a family life in everyone of us.
Merry Christmas to you & your family at Highclere Castle
Paul
Thank you Paul – and to you.
Dear Lady Carnarvon ,
I love to read of such timeless happy memories. Family bonds are forged in many ways. I used to dream of popping open an umbrella and lifting into the sky! Whilst we couldn’t dance on the rooftops, my brothers and I would climb out of an attic window and scramble around the steeply pitched roof. My mother never knew, as she would have boarded up the windows to prevent those dangerous antics!
Thank you for more wonderful stories and memories. I wish you and your family a blessed peaceful Christmas and much joy in the New Year.
Best regards,
Charlotte Cole
Thank you – sometimes it is better if our parents don’t know about all the scrapes we got ourselves into as children!
Hello from Seattle,
The photo with your Nanny sitting with her book is charming but I’m really curious why there’s a bundle of carrots sitting in front of the fireplace? Do you leave them for the reindeer? If so nice touch!
Merry Christmas
Yes, the Baileys and the mince pie are for Father Christmas and the carrots are for his reindeer. Although our dogs also love carrots so sometimes they are eaten before Rudolph and his chums even arrive!
Merry Christmas from Phoenix ,Arizona where we don’t, sadly, have a white Christmas.
I enjoyed your story today, I can “hear ” your wonderful sense of humor in each sentence. I love your description of Nanny, so wonderful she can be with you , raising a glass or two to toast the season.
I can picture you all sitting around the crackling fire, gazing into the flames , glass in hand. May you all have a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Thank you Dianne – Merry Christmas to you too.
Utterly charming……and Happy Holidays to You and Yours…….xoxo Joan (Georgia-USA)
Thank you
Happy Christmast to you and your family.
Wonderful blog as ever, I am actually looking forward to watching Mary Poppins (again!) later today. Wishing you all a Happy Christmas and I look forward to visiting Highclere next April!
How wonderful! A Bailey’s by the fire with Nanny sounds like the perfect Christmas.
I had the pleasure of visiting Highclere Castle on the 9th of this month for Christmas Carols,it was my first vacation to the UK,also met and greeted Lady Carnarvon.
Such a memorable experience for me,to have a tour inside the castle while carols were being sang along side the beautiful Christmas Tree
I will forever cherish these memories and the sovereigns from the gift shop.Merry Christmas and a bright and prosperous new year to everyone at Highclere Castle home of Downton Abbey
Yours Respectfully
Nadia From New York
Thank you – Happy Christmas !
Merry Christmas. I hope you and your family have a wonderful day and new year.
Thank you – Happy Christmas we are just settling into doing very little ..
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Having visited your home and witnessing that it is very much a family home, I’m never surprised to read such wonderful, and colorful, memories of your childhood. It’s delightful to see you carrying on traditions, and allowing your dear nanny to remain steadfast in her pledge of not drinking My family will see Mary Poppins later in the holiday season and we’re looking forward to it. Enjoy the rest of the holidays – Happy Christmas to you all!
Thank you – Happy Christmas !
Happy Christmas from Montreal. Your stories today were lovely and reminded me of our Nanny “Mrs Glue”. Although ours was probably more of a cleaning lady if memory serves, and quite clumsy as I remember her walking into screen doors on a regular bases. Happy holidays to both you and Lord Carnarvon. May this festive season sparkle and shine, and you feel happiness and love all year round. Merry Christmas! Gary and Gerald xox
Happy Christmas, Lady Carnarvon, from Oregon, USA. We’re going to make your Baked Eggs tonight.
Thank you again for such lovely memories. I have fond memories of my nanny when I was 5 years old You’re so on-point with the idea that it’s probably better that our parents didn’t know all the mischief we found.
The most touching part of the blog was your attention about Nanny being at Highclere and her care. That’s such an endearing description. Unfortunately, my Nanny who had planned to be with me after the accident, passed away before she could return to me. She lives on in my heart and her love sustains me to this day.
Thank you for the blog update and wish you and your family the most blessed holiday season. Bonne Année.
Ida Lee Duplechin
Nanny is much loved – and practically perfect …
A very merry Christmas and happy New Year to you and the family. Looking forward to a new year full of hope and sharing the adventures and history of Highclere!
Lady Carnarvon
My girlfriends and I are visiting Highclere in April and we are very excited. We have really enjoyed your posts, they are just delightful. Thank you and Merry Christmas from Atlanta, Georgia.
Lovely blog, as always. When I traveled to Highclere this spring it was one of the most memorable adventures! I love reading these because it allows me to still feel connected to you, your family and that spectacular place you call “home”.
We are headed to see this fantastic new movie on Christmas Day with our family. I will be thinking of Downton as we are watching.
Happy Christmas Lady Carnarvon, and I hope to see you again one day.
Kim C. (Maryland, USA)
We are just singing along to the old Mary Poppins film as I write – such fun
To, ALL the Carnarvon’s at Highclere,
I want, at this time to wish all of you, servants too, a very Merry Xmas, and a most joyous New Year!
Cheers,
John L. Roberts
Amherst, N.Y…..U.S.A.
Thank you – Happy Christmas !
What a wonderful message to read today. 32 years ago after training at college I became a real Mary Poppins and was honoured to become part of someone else’s family entrusted to care for their young family, and yes, I’m from North Yorkshire too! I was told on many occasions of my humour being linked to my requests/discipline! Today I am still in touch with many of my charges. I hold wonderful memories of this time along with my continued years in childcare to this day. Christmas is so magical for the young with memories lasting into adulthood and parenthood. Very best wishes to your Nanny, you and your loved ones.
Dear Lady Carnarvon and fellow bloggers,
Seasons Greetings from Australia, the “home” of Mary Poppins’ creator and author, Helen Lyndon Goff – better know by her “pen-name” of Pamela Lyndon (“PL”) Trsvers.
For some (as yet, unexplained) reason the new Mary Poppins film does not open downunder until the New Year.
Anyway that certainly gives us something to look forward to seeing.
Thank you for yet another wonderful blog that has brought back so many happy childhood memories.
I now take this opportunity to convey to you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Regards,
Jeffery Sewell
Lady Carnarvon,
Such lovey memories—you are so kind to share them with us. How lucky you are that your Nanny can share the holiday with you. Raising 6 children, as well as your sister’s children, is no mean feat. She certainly deserves a special place by the fire at Highclere. I wish you all the happiest of holidays.
Sincerely,
Gina Hartman
Bakersfield, California
Thank you – Happy Christmas !
Thank you for taking me back to my own childhood memories of the fun movie and story of Mary Poppins. The original film was such a gem! I am looking forward to seeing the new take on this childhood standard.
It was a treat to open up my email this morning and find your blog in my new messages. Thank you so very much for sharing your thoughts and home.
Wishing you the happiest of Christmases from Kentucky.
Cynthia
Your writings are delightful. Thank you so much for sharing.
Happy Christmas Lady Canaervon
To you and yours!
Happy Christmas to you and your family
Dear Lady Carnarvon and fellow bloggers,
Seasons Greetings from Australia, the “home” of Mary Poppins’ creator and author, Helen Lyndon Goff – better know by her “pen-name” of Pamela Lyndon (“PL”) Trsvers.
For some (as yet, unexplained) reason the new Mary Poppins film does not open downunder until the New Year.
Anyway that certainly gives us something to look forward to seeing.
Thank you, Lady Carnarvon, for yet another wonderful blog that has brought back so many happy childhood memories. And thank you for sharing the wonderful histories and tales that are so thoughtfully reproduced in your blogs.
Finally, I take this opportunity to convey to all of you, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May 2019 be very special for each of you and your loved ones.
Regards & best wishes,
Jeffery Sewell
THANK YOU MISTER SEWELL MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM BRAZIL
Do I spot carrots on the hearth for Santa’s reindeer?
sandie carpenter whitefish, MONTANA.
Yes!
Love the warm sentiment and the feeling of joy that comes with reading your blogs. Merry Christmas to you, your family and all at Highclere from the US!
Thank you – Merry Christmas
What a lovely blog. Merry Christmas to you and your family and everyone at Highclere!
Thank you – Happy Christmas
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
I have already visited Highclere twice and yet every Monday after reading your bog, I start planning perhaps another visit.
The Castle at Christmastime would be a beautiful experience. Next year is our fiftieth anniversary. Ahh! Perhaps a few hints gently murmured into our children’s ears.
I absolutely loved this essay about your Nanny. She sounds delightful.
Wishing you and your family a very Happy Christmas!
Lauretta McMillen
Staten Island, New York.
It has differnt joys at different times of year…
Thank you, Lady Carnarvon, for sharing your wonderful Christmas memories with us. The photo of nanny is lovely. What a heartwarming post!
Merry Christmas and happy New Year to you all!
Stacey Brown
The Woodlands, Texas
Happy Christmas
We were also very excited to see Spratt in the film. Mary Poppins was the first film I ever saw with my brother. He passed in 2015. I saw this one with my husband and daughters. I cried most of the way through because it so honored the first film and of course our much beloved Walt Disney. I live in Atlanta, GA USA where most films are now being made. They can not compare to the brilliance of Walt’s original pictures. “Mary Poppins Returns” did exactly that. It returned is to a time of innocence and hope sprinkled with a spoonful of joy! Which is also what “Downtown Abbey” does for its viewers. I visited Highclere last June. It is truly my favorite place on earth. Keep blogging!
Thank you – Happy Christmas
Wonderful!
Suzanne, Holkham, Norfolk
Merry Christmas Lady Carnarvon,
After discovering Mary Poppins at 2 years old, as read to me by my mother, I was simply astounded to discover many years later that P.L. Travers was Australian. I was positive she had to be British !!! My favorite books of all time and the reason I never had trouble with spelling or grammer in school. Andrew and Willoughby the dogs……..my favorite characters.
I am having Bailey’s too…..a nice BIG bottle..
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Nanny would be thrilled!!! Happy Christmas
‘Tis the night before Christmas, and all through the castle…up the chimneys, down the chimneys,
and with the doggies in the Monk’s Garden. Lovely tales all, thank you. Warm glow of Highclere Castle at sunset is so beautiful! Warm wishes for a most blessed and happy Christmas to you and Nanny, and all your sisters and all the family and friends at Highclere!
Thank you – Happy Christmas
Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for a Peaceful New Year!
What a lovely story. I took my kids to see Mary Poppins when they were young. I must confess that I enjoyed the movie as much as they did! Thank you for sharing your story it brings back fond memories. Merry Christmas Lady Carnarvon
Phyllis Simpson
I enjoyed it very much too
I loved the Mary Poppins books as a youngster and wished I could be one of the Banks’s children. I am now a Banks by marriage and still wish we all could experience the magic by reading such wonderful, imaginative stories. One of the highlights of our last trip to London was to take the tour of “Downton Abbey”. My Mr. Banks was as thrilled as I was to see your home! Have a blessed and magical Christmas from the American Banks family.
Great name !! Thank you – Happy Christmas
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Yet again another wonderful blog, it sounds like you had a wonderful time with your nanny, I too come from Yorkshire, so know exactly what you mean about her wit and being forthright.
I would like to wish you and your family and Nanny too, a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful and Happy New year.
Lorraine & family.xxxx
Thank you – Happy Christmas
Growing up in Lima Peru, we had a nanny. He name was Pauline and when I misbehaved, she pulled the ears of my beloved teddy bear and made me cry. I do remember her with fondness though because she was so devoted to my mother. Merry Christmas!
I love all your history you are very special also your dear husband. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Wava
He is special !!Thank you – Happy Christmas
Happy Christmas to all at Downton Abbey!
Thank you so much for all your entertaining and inspiring words. Wishing you and all at Highclere a Happy Christmas!
Thank you – Happy Christmas
Merry Christmas Highclere!
From our family in Arizona to yours,
Although we don’t have a white Christmas; we do have the most enchanting outdoor ice skating rink surrounded by silver & green lit up palm trees… It’s a magical way to spend Christmas Eve!
We are also on our way to see “Mary Poppins” too!
Happy New Year, looking forward to visiting Highclere in June 2019!
The Gould Family☃️
Look forward to seeing you here ! Happy Christmas
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Yet another wonderful blog, Your Nanny sounds like she was fun, being from Yorkshire, I understand what you mean about the unique wit, and being forthright.
May I wish you, your family and Nanny a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and peaceful New Year.
Best wishes Lorraine & family.xx
Thank you – Happy Christmas
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
You never cease to amaze! To take the time during this busy time of year to send good wishes to your blog-readers is quite wonderful. Not having the memories of care from a nanny, I can still enjoy your memories and others who respond. We finally got a little snow to cover the brown in our yards here in NW Montana so I can look forward to reading with my grandchildren “the moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow” which we do every Christmas eve. I’ve never heard of carrots for the reindeer, but it will now become an instant tradition here, too.
Merry Christmas to you and thank you for your kind thoughts.
Margaret
Thank you adn the same to your and your family
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Yet another wonderful blog. It sounds like you and your sisters had fun with your Nanny, being from Yorkshire, I know what her wit and forthrightness will be like.
I would like to wish you, your family and Nanny a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and peaceful New year.
Best wishes
Lorraine. and family.xx
Thank you – Happy Christmas
Lovely Christmas post! Here in Connecticut, a light snow is falling on this Christmas Eve Day. We are baking and listening to Christmas music, and all of the gifts are wrapped. Our candlelight service tonight helps us to keep our focus right! Have a joyful celebration!!
(Hope to see Mary Poppins this week!)
Do see it – Happy Christmas
Well liking the idea of that Gin And Tonic at 6 pm this evening
Merry Christmas and a very Happy healthy New Year
Thank you – Happy Christmas
I especially loved this blog post showing the connection of your Nanny with Mary Poppins. I took my granddaughters to see Mary Poppins Returns this week and we thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved seeing Spratt in the movie. Thank you for sharing this with us. Merry Christmas from Alabama in the USA!
Happy Christmas – such fun – spit spot!
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
What lovely memories which took me back to my childhood and all the happy times. I would also like to convey to you my thanks for sharing your beautiful home with complete strangers on the eve of the 18th. I very much enjoyed the experience and look forward to visit Highclere in the New Year. Just one question, I would like to have a couple of photos as a momento of the evening. Would I have to contact the photographer directly?
Wishing you and your family a Merry and Joyful Christmas and a Happy New Year.
kind regards
Christina M. Pettigrew-Krizmanich
Cheltenham
Justine in my office is just sorting that out – we would like you to be able to download them -it may yet be the New Year. It was a good evening ..
You were lucky to have such a nice “Nanny”. I chose to raise my own children because my own mother was much more attached to her Nanny than her own mother. I would have liked someone to help with the children in a very busy Rectory and so my children ran wild (with the dogs!) in our woodland and all over the old , large (COLD) house. My husband loved their “Nanny”… but used to carry overheard gossip from his parents … much to their consternation ! Do have a wonderful Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year.
It is just like anything else,finding a fit with the people around you and changing tack or ship if after trying it doesn’t fit. How lucky were we that Nanny replied to our mother’s advertisement!
Merry Christmas to you .
Merry (Happy) Christmas to you, your family and Nanny!!! I have wonderful memories of my Dad taking me and my sister to see the original Mary Poppins. We were all dressed up in our Christmas dresses and Dad in a suit and tie. The theatre was an “old time” one so you are meant to be dressed up!!
Have a wonderful holiday and Happy New Year!
Lisa Cosgrove
Orland Park IL USA
Thank you – Happy Christmas!
Nanny sounds like a wonderful person! So fortunate to have her in your families life. Love the photo of her with her Baileys and book. Carrots & stockings on the hearth….all is well for Christmas!
Wishing you a beautiful holiday season and look forward to your posts in the New Year!
Happy Christmas!
Another wonderful blog and I must say Thank you for a fantastic evening celebrating 100 years of the RAF and may you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Thank you – Happy Christmas !
Thank you for sharing wonderful memories with us. Have a blessed Christmas and a wonderful 2019!
I hope to visit Heighclere Castle in the Spring!
Daffodils should be out!
Hello again from Florida!
You are such a gifted writer. You paint the picture with words so I can see it clearly! I wish I had that gift.
I want to wish you and your sweet Husband a very Blessed Christmas. Y’all have become such an important part of my life, I sometimes forget we are not neighbors!
I love it when you reference Luis or Matthew! I was so thankful to meet these generous kind men when we visited. They treated me with such kindness, I was very touched and I will never forget them.
I have a dream to spend Christmas in England some time. To see Highclere all decked out in it’s Christmas splendor would be a dream come true.
Please pass on our wishes for a wonderful Christmas and a Blessed New Year to your Nanny and everyone in your household. (I think Nanny deserves three fingers of Gin)
God Bless you all. Thank you for bringing us into your life so graciously.
Cheers,
L Sue Smith
Englewood, Florida
Matthew and Luis and the team are all with us now – I am about to challenge Luis to helicopter flying – the minature ones are perfect for the Saloon here..
Happy Christmas from Northern Virginia. Reading this was like having two of my favorite worlds colliding. Love learning about your nanny and that she is still a part of your life.
Thank you – Happy Christmas!
Mele Kalikimaka and Hau’oli Makahiki Hou! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year (in Hawaiian). Thank you for your nostalgic connection with Mary Poppins. As an aside,
did you know that Hawaii’s last Queen Liliuokalani and Queen Victoria used to correspond? They both were mourning the loss of their husbands.
Thank you for the information – Happy Christmas!
I had two nannies. One Southern woman that made the best fried chicken ever and drank malt beer while watching color TV. The other was my partner in crime, staying up late into the wee hours to play Gin Rummy!
Great memories of fun and kindness.
Happy Christmas!
Gin rummmy forgot that – my mother was a demon card player!
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Loved you blog today. They always take me away to be right there in your beautiful home. Mary Poppins was one of my favorite movies, which I saw at the movie theater, when it originally came out. Loved it so much I begged my mom on the way home to please let me change my name to “Mary Poppins”… my mom said “no” and I cried all the way home. I remember it like it was yesterday. Your nanny sounds pretty super!
A very Happy Christmas and New Year from south Louisiana..
My best,
Michele
Happy Christmas – thank you ..
A very merry Christmas to you. Thankful for the wonderful memories of our visit this summer.
Delighted you came here – Happy Christmas!
As we say in the USA, have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR.
Thank you Happy Christmas!
Beautiful blog as always! Wishing you and all at Highclere the merriest of Christmases. Have a blessed holiday with family and friends. Hugs from across the pond!
Sincerely, Shelly
Merry Christmas!
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Another fun blog to read on Christmas Eve. My grandchildren arrive tomorrow afternoon ( Christmas Day) and I hope their parents will let me take them off to see Mary Poppins. I had a nanny growing up ( following my mother’s English tradition) but she was not a nice person and was finally fired after five long years of employment. Nevertheless, her presence did not dampen our spirits at all and continued misbehaving when all the babysitters arrived of which there were several over the years. I think my mother was glad when we finally grew up and no longer needed them. I would have loved to have someone as magical as Mary Poppins.
I do hope you have a magical Christmas and a white one at that. Nothing more divine!
Happy New Year too.
Love, Diana Squibb
South Florida
Happy Christmas!
Thank you for yet another wonderful blog. Always a joy to read.
This week your blog struck a cord with me as I had a spell in the UK as a Nanny to a lovely family with 2 delightful young daughters. We were frequent visitors to the stately home down the road for tea with their mother – it was lovely to share those memories with the girls. I have kept in touch all these years since & visit the parents each time I visit the UK. The girls are now grown women but will always share a place in my heart.
We can’t wait for the Downton Abbey movie to be released – it’s bound to be a huge box office success.
Wishing you, your family & the Highckere families all a wonderful Christmas & New Year
I hope people enjoy the movie – Happy Christmas!
I really did enjoy this blog, Lady Carnarvon. Thank you so much for all your wonderful blogs this year, I have enjoyed them greatly! Have a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!
Happy Christmas!
Yes Mary Poppins was a real classic.The songs are still as fresh today as they were back then.Julie Andrews had a wonder voice.
Best wishes to you and your family.
Peter Kelly
Happy Christmas!
MY DEAR LADY CARNARVON AND FELLOW BLOGGERS,
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM BRAZIL.
” BEFORE THE MANGER WE UNDERSTAND THAT IT IS NOT THE GOODS THAT FEED LIFE, BUT LOVE, NOT VORACITY, BUT CHARITY, NOT THE ABUNDANCE DISPLAYED, BUT SIMPLICITY THAT WE MUST PRESERVE.” POPE FRANCISCO.
PROFESSORA MARIA AUGUSTA PINHEIRO VILA ALEMÃ RIO CLARO SP BRAZIL.
Lady Carnarvon,
This post reminded me of my Nanny. She was very stern, but she taught me many life learnings. My Grandmother called her a Governess. Nanny became a family member. I miss her. Merry Christmas Lady Carnarvon.
Happy Christmas Thank you- she is family
Thank you for sharing the memories and stories of your nanny. It was a delightful read. I used to wish on every star and with every birthday candle that Mary Poppins would come and be my nanny, but alas, it was not to be.
I had the opportunity to see Mary Poppins Returns the other night and although I wanted to like it, I went in the skeptic – for how could it possibly be as fabulous as the original? It was WONDERFUL! The music, the dancing, the colors and the magic! Along with all the nods to the original. Of course being the lover of all things Downton that I am, I recognized Sprat right away and couldn’t help myself . . . “It’s Sprat!” echoed through our theater followed by a smattering of quiet chuckles. All my poor husband could do was shake his head.
Thank you again for sharing your memories and for you blog. It brightens my day and cheers me so each time I read it. You are so lovely and gracious to share life at Highclere with us.
Best wishes to you and yours for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
It makes you want to dance -Happy Christmas to you and your family!
Visiting High Clere was the highlight of my year. Merry Christmas to you and Lord Canarvon.
P.s. I enjoyed reading your book about Lady Almina. Wonderfully written
Thank you so much – Almina has given us a wonderful legacy – Happy Christmas to you and your family!
Lady Carnarvon,
I am watching Downton Abbey this evening on PBS. Love the show and seeing scenes from your residence. What a splendid place. I studied Interior design. And just seeing the architecture and lovely furnishings has made my evening!
Happy Christmas – Thank you!
Thank you for the Nanny story. I enjoy your blog very much. I have always been fascinated by all the chimneys on the homes in England and think of Mary Poppins when I do see them.
Wishing you and yours at Highclere a very Merry Christmas.
Happy Christmas to you and your family!
Merry Christmas. A spoonful of cinema helps the memories go down….in the most delightful way. I have yet to see the Mary Poppins Returns but if I have the chance I would like to see it in the theatre. I really enjoy your Blog. Cheers to Highclere and the merriest of times from renovations to recipes. Highclere truly is the foundation of family. I spoon fed my 83 year old mother the Downton Abbey shows with “subtitles” and she loved them. She loves the castle. I went further to have her sample the Lady Carnarvon blogs and the documentaries of Highclere. I especially like your recipe blogs. All the best in the new year.
Thank you!
Such a charming story to read with my early morning Christmas tea, thank you Lady Carnarvon. Happy Christmas.
Happy Christmas to you and your family!
A very Happy Christmas, Lady Carnarvon. Thank you for your very own mischievous nanny tale. It sounds like you and your sisters drove Nanny to drink. So glad to hear she has given it up
Mary Poppins was one of my favorite childhood reads and this is a wonderful tribute to your Nanny. Here in the states in my day nannies were simply known as baby sitters and I did a lot of baby sitting to earn extra money. Today with so many working mothers, many now hire the Nanny, but there’s nothing here in the States that matches the British Nanny and your’s is a treasure. I love the way you have written about her. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Happy Christmas!
Happy Christmas, Lady Carnarvon!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with us on Downton and your blog. I have found memories of Mary Poppins and enjoyed reading about your nanny.
Thank you!
Such lovely memories…which conjure up childhood memories of my own. Not of a “Nanny” but of a wonderful, affirming grandmother, who by all appearances was really my Nanny, living with us (or us with her), which was really the case. But, she was my instructor, my playmate and best friend! She nursed me when I was ill, told me stories before bedtime and made my favorite meal whenever there was a special occasion. Oh but that we all could be so loved and cared for while growing up! Now I try to follow in her footsteps when my grandchildren come around. My best wishes to you and your family at Christmas time, and all through the New Year.
Paula in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Thank you – grandmothers so often called Nan for good reason! Happy Christmas
MY DEAR LADY CARNARVON,
AND THE PHOTOS OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE WITH THE CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS, WHERE IS IT ??
It is in the Saloon – the heart of the Castle!
Dear Lady Carnarvon, did not make it in time for Christmas, but here is wishing you and your family, a blessed and healthy and Happy New Year. Desiree Creary. Just love the blogs, please keep them coming.
Thank you for reading the blogs ..Happy Christmas!
So touched by your story of the nanny. We all have a special person in our lives and think of them at Christmas time. Hope to one day visit Highclere Castle in the snow.
With best wishes for Christmas from Bellfield, Victoria, Australia, land of the kangaroos.
Thank you!
I love Nanny without even meeting her – what a lovely story. I’m sure we would get on nicely as I, too, believe that a good gin and tonic is never amiss on Christmas – or any other time, for that matter. Merry Christmas – a day late – and thanks for an always fun and interesting blog post.
Thank you – and Happy Christmas!
Dear Lady Carnarvon
Thank you so much for your delightful blogs. As an ardent lover of historical houses and castles, as well as being brought up by a very British Grandfather, loyal to the crown, I used to fantasise about being of aristocratic descent with a proper British title. Although I am third generation South African by birth, I think my grandfather’s attempts to instill British loyalty, as a family of British descent, in us as children, did pay off with regards to me. I remember Highclere from my secondary school days, as I had to do an art assignment on architecture and one option was historical architecture. For obvious reasons this was the option I chose. I went to the local Library and took out mounds of books, but there was one book in particular that focused on Great British Houses, of which Highclere was one. Although printed in the late 1960’s, the magnificence of these homes completely placed me under a spell. I fell in love with each page, each home and every bit of history of the houses, including Highclere.
It is truly an honour to be able to be part of the blog of the Countess of Carnarvon to whom Highclere belongs. I do hope that one day I will have the privilege to be able to visit Highclere and meet in person.
Kindest regards
Martin Francis
Thank you for your comments! All best wishes
Delightful! It sounds as if you had a lovely childhood. All the best in 2019!
We did – books – no TV on Cornwall (lots of Racing Demon) – home cooking …
Absolutely love all of your blogs. Hope you and your family have there happiest of holidays.
Merry Christmas Lady Carnarvon. I visited Highclere this June with my sisters. You so graciously signed one of your books for my sister that couldn’t come with us because of her recent battle with breast cancer. I want you to know that your kindness meant the world to her. Visiting your lovely home, meeting you, having tea was such a dream come true. Your efforts on behalf of Highclere are admirable and I love reading your blogs. All my best and wishing you and your family a wonderful year from Manassas, Va
Happy Christmas and I hope you will return with your sister perhaps!
Lovely and enchanting blog post! I’ve always loved Mary Poppins, and thought it would have been fun to have had a nanny. My own Mom was a little “stiff” with us. But she loved us just the same. Thank you so much for sharing your adventures with us!
Happy & Blessed New Year!
Jane Franks
P.S. Very eager for the Downton Abbey Movie!
Happy New Year!
Lady Carnarvon,
What touching story on Nanny. It is beautiful how our caretakers become our family. Lovely photo by the fireplace, looks like a postcard.
Happy Christmas!
She is sitting with me now – having coffee…
I’m having a problems trying to buy tickets online for Jun1 Special Tour – Is there somewhere else or someone else to contact? When I check out it says I can only buy one order and I have only one order in the shopping bag – any help will be much appreciated – Looking so forward to seeing the castle in person after enjoying your blog for so long!!!
You can book your tickets here https://highclerecastleshop.co.uk/categories/mid-summer-special-opening
Just select morning or afternoon and then select the number of guests and click the buy button.
Alternatively you can email [email protected]
Thank you!
Wonderful stories. I remember as a child the carrots and minced pies being put out Christmas Eve. Also waking up Christmas morning in Southern California and being sunny and warm.
I took the family to see Mary Poppins. The preview for Downton Abbey came up on the screen. How very exciting. Have a wonderful New Year.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for your nanny-inspired blog.
I grew up in Canada with Nanny Hafey, a British white-haired lady who smoked like a chimney. She had a very ample bosom, perfect for nestling the head of a distraught child. My younger brother and I were very blessed to have her in our lives.
I still drink my tea the way she prepared it, weak with a generous glug of milk (and I will be forever teased for this).
I recently added the Department 56 Downton Abbey, the Dowager House and the Crawley House to my Christmas Village so Highclere Castle is now a special part of our holiday decor. I love watching guests’ faces when they recognize it!
All the best!
Lindsay
New Westminster, BC
Canada
Aww what a sweet story. I love Nanny. . Those are some precious memories. We love Mary Poppins so much as well.
Much love
Sarah Cameron
Virginia, USA
This was buried in my emails, but it is so delightful even though it is almost spring. The photo of Highclere against the purple sky is enchanting! The story about your own nanny is priceless. So happy to see that she is still able to enjoy life! I have yet to see the film, but hope to see it on video. I don’t see many films at the theatre, about 3 in the last 5 years, but I am sorry to have missed the theatre showing for Mary Poppins.