By Suzette Lowe for The Jackson Star & Herald
RAVENSWOOD, W.Va. — Some of the most charming aspects of a small town are the houses and the people who live there.
No one fits the idea of a ‘charming’ couple more than Wayne and Jean Abel. Their home on Sand Street by the James P. Spano Jr. Memorial Bridge provides the perfect setting for those coming into or leaving Ravenswood.
Each of the major ‘special days’ — Valentine’s Day, Easter, the Fourth of July, Halloween, and Christmas — will see the Abel home decorated and offering holiday cheer. Recently, the ghosts, pumpkins, and fall colors were on display. Now, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Abel house.
With seasonal decorations, including candy canes, lights, and a nativity scene, the sight brings travelers and locals alike a taste of the season.
“That’s my favorite time to decorate,” Jean, 90 years old, said. “Now, our son and daughter, when she can, help get the decorations up, but we have a lighting ceremony when the family comes in for Thanksgiving.”
Jean said she credits her dear friend, Mary Lou Robinson, for encouraging her and Wayne to keep up the decorating traditions.
Photo by Suzette Lowe, Jackson Newspapers