Blanchard Couple Turns Home into Winter Wonderland

Linda Johnson estimates it takes her two to three days just to set up her assortment of vintage houses, displayed on shelves specially built by her husband.

BLANCHARD, N.D. – It’s a little bit out of the way for most people; but trust us when we say that the old schoolhouse in Blanchard is a secret haven for some serious Christmas cheer.

Linda Johnson is the curator of this winter wonderland inside her and her husband’s Blanchard home, which is a former schoolhouse built all the way back in 1914.

She’s got dedicated storage in the basement to tuck away her treasured heirlooms during the rest of the year. Then Christmas comes around, and it turns into a decorating frenzy.

Perhaps her most prized possession is an authentic German advent pyramid that dates all the way back to 1971.

Linda’s enthusiasm for the holiday is clear – but she says what makes the season for her and her husband is being able to share this warmth with family.

“I have 10 brothers and sisters, and when we can get together, especially in the big house we have – I love it,” she said.

“And I’d love to pass this on to further generations – where they might want to decorate for Christmas.”