Fox Valley Tour of Homes

Old houses tug at my heart strings … they offer quirky character not found in homes built today. You know, things like creaky stairs, floors that a marble can roll across without a push from the finger, drafty doors … stuff like that. But more importantly, old homes offer the charm of imperfection only found after many years of love and living. And so, when I need a pick-me-up, I can always count on the beautiful, historic homes of the Fox River Valley to brighten my mood.

Our tour starts in Geneva, the county seat and home to a few movie scenes from “Road to Perdition.”
The red roof of this stone manor lends itself to the festive spirit of Christmas (it wasn’t in the movie though).
A big brouhaha occured over this house several years ago. The newly divorced owner wanted to turn it
into a Bed & Breakfast to help pay the bills. The neighbors were outraged and successfully fought the measure.
Darn it! Would’ve been my chance to see the interior.
I love houses like this … simple yet important details like the fish scales, round window at the peak,
and the two small windows above the porch roof really make this a charmer.
A close-up reveals the beautiful wood door and white wicker furniture on the porch.

This is another house I’ve adored for years. Classic lines and colors,
it’s a quintessential picture of Americana.
I would love to live in a house with a cupola like this one. I imagine spending hours
up there reading and enjoying the sunshine and views.
I’d be perfectly happy living in this house, too.
It doesn’t get any more classic than a white farmhouse with a wide front porch.
A closer view reveals a charming Santa. Love the hardware on the front door.
And those green shutters! Mmm, mmm, mmmmm.
Finally, we received some Christmas snow! Our next stop is St. Charles,
voted one of 10 Best Towns for Families by Family Circle Magazine.
An adorable Cape Cod comes complete with a brick driveway and barn style garage door.
A pretty Christmas scene, with soft white curtains at the window.
Check out the detail of the front door and dentil molding at the roofline.
This house isn’t old, but it’s amazing nonetheless.
Wow! The wood on the porch and door is simply amazing.
The side entrance to the home reminds me of a scene from Breckenridge.
And of course, what home isn’t complete without a cute, little guest house?
I wanna curl up in there with some hot chocolate for the weekend.
This home reminds me of a Southern Belle. Perhaps it’s the porticoes and arched
windows on the first floor that give it the flavor of a plantation.

And on to something completely different … is there any house more charming than a bungalow?
Love the stockings in the window, awaiting Santa’s arrival!
There’s just something about ivy clinging to stone that makes a home irresistible. And that diamond window
at the peak is just adorable! As you can see, it’s home to Arbor Avenue Antiques.
There’s just no shortage of historic homes in this area. The Fox Valley is a great place to live and visit.
If you ever come to Chicago to visit, be sure to head west and visit the valley.

There’s plenty to do and see. Log onto http://www.visitstcharles.com/
or http://www.genevadowntown.org/ for more info.

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

Joining the Following Parties …

Tuesday Treasures at My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia
Wow Us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style
Inspiration Friday at At the Picket Fence
Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage
Vintage Inspiration Friday at Common Ground
What’s It Wednesday at Ivy and Elephants
Open House Party at No Minimalist Here
Potpourri Friday at 2805

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15 Comments

  1. Seriously, I think you could be telepathically reading my mind or we are a lot alike. I love your blog! The first house could be my dream home but house 6 is running a close second. I love stone or brick houses! They are my fav! Thanks for sharing:)

    Reply

  3. OMG…Totally awesome home tours. You have amazing taste. I hope you could link this fabulous post to our linky party for this week. Hope you can join us. Great job! Merry Christmas.

    Paula
    ivyandelephants.blogspot.com

    Reply

  4. Hi Jennifer,
    We do have some of the most beautiful homes around here don’t we! Your photography skills are great! I didn’t know that about the bed & breakfast. I always wonder why we don’t have more around here. Especially with the different fairs and festivals we have. Have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!
    Michelle

    Reply

  10. The houses are all beautiful. I could live in any of them.
    I just found you at No Minimalist Here and am following you now. Love your blog.
    Wishing you the Merriest of New Years.
    Barb

    Reply

  11. Beautiful houses, I lost track of which one I liked best…that’s caz they’re all gorgeous. Thank you for sharing and here I’m sending you best wishes for a wonderful New Year.
    FABBY

    Reply