In the vein of you never know where you're going to learn something new, I was once reading an issue of O: The Oprah Magazine and discovered that Evelyn Lauder is not only an excellent photographer, but also a head vase collector. I thought you might like to see some of the photos Lauder took of her collection (click on "See Her Photographs") to raise money for some worthy causes, and this little Christmassy head vase from my collection, too. Learn even more about collectible head vases with my feature Modern Head Hunters Prefer the Ladies .

Many of the customs we enjoy during the holidays today have Victorian roots. Take the poll, then post a comment to share more about your own family's Christmas traditions.

The spade foot was first popularized by Chippendale in the mid-1700s, but would you know one if you saw it? I'll give you a hint: it doesn't look anything like a spade. If that's not quite enough information for your mind's eye, a new Furniture Glossary entry offers some spade foot insight, including a handy photograph.

Everyone wants a beautiful holiday table, right? And for many people that means hauling out those gorgeous pieces of antique silver either inherited or collected. The only problem is that those pieces aren't usually so spectacular until they're shined up a bit, and the thought of accomplishing a cleaning project might cause you to leave those pretty pieces tucked away instead of tackling the task. Learn the right way to clean, store and display your silver with Shining Brightly: Silver Care and Display. Read on, and your silver will be ready to dazzle your holiday guests in no time!