Welcome to “Christmas in the Oaks” at the Gardere house. As you enter the long winding drive bordered by statuesque oaks, you’re greeted with a warm and welcoming front porch. Pat Gardere, formerly a resident of New Orleans, relocated to Picayune in 2009 after losing her home and most of her possessions to Hurricane Katrina. She has kept her love for the city alive using traditional New Orleans decor blending French, Italian and southern plantation styles.

Upon entering the home, the foyer greets you with a winding staircase and a beautiful hand painted mural. The mural, commissioned by artist Dana Sherlock, depicts the authentic house “Tara” from “Gone With the Wind” and the steamboat “Natchez” paddling lazily down the Mississippi River. The dining room features country French furniture accented with burgundy and gold decor. The table setting displays Italian Venetian glassware the Gardere’s handpicked and designed while on a trip to Venice, Italy.

The family room is traditional in style with a cozy fireplace and an “Old Fashioned” Christmas tree. Featured in the hallway is a ceramic Nativity scene that Pat handmade herself. Her home office contains “Gone With the Wind” collectibles displayed in a lighted curio cabinet. The sun room opens up to the backyard featuring a serene lagoon style saltwater pool with a rock waterfall overlooking the lake.

The Gardere family hopes everyone enjoys “Christmas in the Oaks” and wishes all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

To view this home or any of the others, tickets can be purchased at the door on the day of the pilgrimage for $12. Tickets can also be purchased in advance from a club-woman for $10 or at the following locations: The Glass Porch, Melinda’s, and June Bug’s Checkered Cupboard. The Pilgrimage chairman for 2010 is  Connie Tapley. For more information you may call 601-798-4115.