OUR SECRET CHRISTMAS COURTYARD REVEALED!

[@fishermann1102]

Amaury is more than just his good look. He is humble, well mannered and a great human being.

[@jennibunny5719]

And his voice is honey to my ears…

[@lisaglynn3121]

Yes he is! He and Dan are awesome together!

[@robertarogers998]

Well said.

[@jimmyconnolly3461]

There’s not many men that make me want to get on my hands and knees 😉

[@Franceses98]

Totally agree, and we can add: so talented artist and absolutely super organized.

[@sheilaandersen8710]

Who does not absolutely love Amaury's mother??? She is the absolute best!!! ❤❤❤

[@cliffhorman6846]

love love love Auntie

[@mayfleur36]

I know right?

[@Fiesty-1]

It’s astounding to me how invested I’m in a people and place I’ve never met or been. As one of many with limited family please know how you’ve become like a family to me and many others. Lots of love and thank you for all you do. The singing brought tears to my eyes.

[@jennifercampbell7698]

I agree totally! And yes these vlogs have brought tears to my eyes too! Merry Christmas from South Australia!

[@lisaglynn3121]

Beautiful! And it brought tears to my eyes, also my ♥️ ! Merry Christmas Everyone!

[@redtestarossa]

I brought my two daughters to stay at Lalande last Sunmer and we had so much fun! It really is a magical place Stephanie and her pals have created!

[@cbwmama8461]

A "Cherry Picker" is a must for the chateau not only for roof repairs but also for the removal of the rendering. The cost of renting/buying scaffolding would certainly make it cost efficient. BUT -- you will need a structure to house the equipment so the chateau does not look like a construction yard and to keep the equipment out of the weather. Deciding where to put the structure is another question.

[@KH-nn6kh]

I thought perhaps Santa may bring the Chateau/Dan a cherry picker for Christmas...

[@ScouseAndy71]

They could ask to the farmer next door to house the cherry-picker for a nominal fee?👍

[@milmom4281]

Perhaps back by where Selmar’s workshop is?

[@beefrench3554]

So happy you will be getting a cherry picker. I have family members working in the O.R department of hospital and they tell me every year around Christmas, Men are admitted into the hospital from falls while putting up Christmas lights on their houses . Some of the falls leave life altering injuries like paralysis.

[@susanknox5402]

A huge shout out to Mother Nature for bringing on the snow at precisely the right moment! That is a glorious scene, Stephanie. The whole La Lande team must take a bow!🇨🇦

[@jandobson5441]

Amaury’s Mother: “So Not Clever” English/French politeness. While in Oz, all the mum’s are shouting “Get the F* down from there!” Whether it was real time or taped.

[@Divinefemininemiracles]

😂

[@VisionaryGardener]

Yes! The ex-wildfire fighter first aid attendant in me was yelling at them the way I would have at a fire fighter on the fireline, doing something stupid. We use every curse word under the sun. 😉😆😬

[@gardenparty2771]

@@VisionaryGardener as a former construction inspector I was having serious issues watching, especially if someone young sees this a normal way to use equipment. I know someone who was lifted in a bucket 5 ft off the ground and fell. He became paralyzed from the neck down. All it takes is one slip.

[@kellyhawes8901]

Something my husband would ( and probably has ) done. It's amazing what they do when they are in the middle of a task, although certainly not wisely for sure!

[@lolodee3528]

In the states"...the hell..!???" One word Amaury/Dan: lanyard.

[@Adriana_mg]

I hope Santa will be very generous to Dan and Amaury this year. They've been working hard! 😊

[@eledatowle7128]

Not sure he could fit a dumper or cherry picker on the sleigh, but it's sure worth a try!

[@christellebaroque8694]

your aunt's disapproval was iconic! I think you owe the boys a spa day with all those huge projects going on! really loving all the changes that are taking place, will have to go and watch Chateau DIY to be able to follow what is going on some more !!!

[@kellyhawes8901]

That is something we'd all like to see! I am a massage therapist....😉

[@christellebaroque8694]

@@kellyhawes8901 planning any trips to central France soon? 🤩

[@kellyhawes8901]

@@christellebaroque8694 Don't I wish!!

[@lisaglynn3121]

@@kellyhawes8901 Your the first Hawes I’ve every seen. My maiden name is Hawes! Great Name!

[@kellyhawes8901]

@@lisaglynn3121 😁. My husbands name. He was born in Milldenhall, his parents in US Air Force. But I know his ancestors are from England as well.

[@mauralyons2713]

Amaury must never leave the Chateau he is such an asset x

[@traceeschwartz6263]

👍 agree

[@Jayrose59]

I think he is there for a long time as Steph mentioned him doing the library in the winter salon and he has set up his beautiful workshop so it looks like he has moved in 🥰🥰🥰

[@mariak9727]

@@Jayrose59 🎄🌟💖Merry Christmas Jill🥰 and a healthy, happy New Year!!💕💕

[@Jayrose59]

@@mariak9727 Thank you Maria. The same to you my darling. It is already Christmas morning here. 🥰🥰🥰

[@GoldenLady9779]

I love how the peacocks are standing around wondering what's happening with THEIR courtyard! 🥰

[@lydiascruggs1602]

I actually love the new courtyard. It has been slow and steady improvement around the sentimental fountain. It adds balance to the weight and glory of the house.

[@paulwaite2219]

Always love all of the changes you make to the chateau. BUT if you are going to the expense, effort and work of changing the facade of the front of the Chateau then the trees will hide the finished result when people are coming up to the front of the Chateau. The trees would look really nice somewhere else. Happy Christmas to all.

[@annblumfield1480]

Stephanie and Philip, you singing together in perfect harmony brought tears to my eyes . My family can’t have Christmas this year, without explaining . So this meant so much to me hearing this

[@mparker6823]

Can I say how much I admire how dedicated Davey is to his work, and how seriously he takes it? Thank you, Davey! Much respect!

[@kerryowen-holmes3719]

Yes Amoury and Davy are both such calm well balanced people and all ways courteous to everyone 😊🇦🇺

[@BeckyKeeling]

Amaury truly is perfection. Natty is so lucky. The courtyard is stunning. Can't wait to see the Christmas tree outside all made up. It will be a work of art! You have made a beautiful family there, cherie. All of the best sorts of people there together making beautiful things. Henri the Ghost fulfilled his promise to Lalande, starting with you.

[@marleyburkhardt3714]

Are he and Natty dating? I have often wondered. lol

[@suzyq555]

Or is Amuary the lucky one???

[@Kiwichick138]

'Natty is so lucky'??? Whaaaat? Are they really? If they are, yes Amaury is the lucky one, smart man for choosing an incredibly amazing woman.

[@BeckyKeeling]

@@Kiwichick138 I just assumed, based on her sitting between his mother and he at dinner. I know absolutely nothing, I'm so sorry. They would be delightful together!

[@rayleneertle951]

That would be great!!!!

[@valgoodridge1810]

So interesting to see you planting trees in France. Your soil must be very different. In our part of Canada we always have to remove the wire cages from the trees and spread out the burlap so it will rot out. Otherwise the root structure is weak.

[@jeanine6492]

Yes, research is showing more problems than not with trees who don’t have their root balls completely freed of wire, etc. especially after a decade or so when they are very large.

[@carolinegooder7091]

As you are rendering the outside of the Chateau next year, I agree with you, a Cherry Picker is on the Christmas list. 🤣❤🌺🌹🍭🍾🥂

[@karenbrindley7170]

Davy, love the design. I hope everything grows and your vision is realized. Bravo to Dan, Amaury, Kirsty and others for working hard in miserable conditions. LaLande is lucky to have you all.

[@karenbrindley7170]

@@ahondrogen9018 absolutely! Great 🎄

[@heyguysimstuck5196]

Your aunt is a super star! I hope your aunt and uncle will visit more often. Happy Solstice!

[@dianegriffith3006]

I agree, would love to see them more often. By the way-is her aunt Isabells sister! Who is related to who? Thanks.

[@Sgirl]

@@dianegriffith3006 Yes, Isabelle's sister

[@roberthossen8354]

What a project!! Well done Davy for the exquisite design, well done Stephanie for your daring, well done Dan, Amaury and all others for turning the courtyard into a festive Christmas dream and a feast for the eyes in Spring and years to come!!

[@sarapawsonherrington2595]

Really lovely, except for the dangerous parts!! The snow couldn't have been better timed if planned by Hollywood. Your duet singing The First Noel at the end was wonderful!

[@douglasmcdonald6467]

I feel sad for the poor trees not have the wire or fabric taken off , it strangles’ the roots. But I’m very happy for all that live at the château to enjoy the lovely courtyard. 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄

[@CynthiaBerry713]

I did too...at first. But Davey is a professional, and would've thought of that, so either they edited that out, OR they used biodegradable materials. They do make a mesh-like material that is biodegradable so I'm hoping for that!

[@Ferdy1969]

The "packaging" of the tree roots is the right way to transplant grown trees, its a natural burlap, a kind of sisal/agave fiber witch holds the roots together with some of the original soil plus prevent from freezing the roots and will degenerates it self in the coming seasons as the roots grown over it .

[@J.Cameron.Stuart.Adams.]

They planted them perfectly. Roots will have zero issues growing. Think of all of broken and raised sidewalks you've crossed over. Roots are extremely strong. An old oak damaged our pool after when the roots decided to puncture the concrete lining on summer day. After years of the root growing along the curve of the pool pressure began to build until one day massive cracks appeared and a small section between the cracks fell out. The thin wire is no match for the roots. Rust will quickly take hold. By the time the roots are bigger than the diameter of the open bits in the wire, the roots will simply break the wire. The burlap will decompose. The roots need the soil they were grown in to stay in place to prevent damage to the vital finer secondary roots. Cheers!

[@Erica-222]

Breathtakingly beautiful, Stephanie! This entire video was filled with such heartwarming teamwork, laughter and joy. I spy a Christmas album of duets for 2022!

[@ScaseFacetime]

Yes, bring on the duets 😁🎼

[@nataliekeane8944]

Davey's vision is incredible...we shouldn't be surprised..its his job!!! There's a lot of building he has to balance out and that feature needs to be grand! Bloody brilliant work designer and labourers!

[@jamesmurray5249]

Love the courtyard .Finally a courtyard befitting such a beautiful chateau .well done everyone for all your hard work ,it truly looks amazing .😊

[@margiemistretta8885]

The courtyard was wonderful as Dan did it...that huge structure and all the lime trees should not be in front...disastrous, but not my place ohcwell to each their own

[@candydonnelly7543]

Another magical Advent log, thank you everyone, Stephanie and Philip your voices singing together is the icing on the Christmas Cake! 👏❤️🎄🇫🇷👏❤️🎄🇫🇷👏❤️🎄🇫🇷👏❤️

[@lyndaking7519]

Ah, lovely singing Stephanie and Phillip, your voices harmonise so beautifully. Please sing some more Christmas carols 🎶❄️🎄💖

[@moegirl76]

Yes please!!!

[@jacquelinereynolds562]

Your brother is a natural for the camera! He is also kind and caring, too.

[@shanalawrence4381]

Amaury and the rest of the guy's are just so so humble, helpful and hard working. Bless them 🙏 I truly appreciate every effort on their part to make La Lande beautiful. The courtyard looks magical ❄️❄️❄️❄️

[@AvaT42]

🇨🇦 Stephanie and Phillip singing together, they sounded so lovely, brought tears to my eyes❣️

[@kerryharding5587]

Wonderful! What an vlog. LOVE the courtyard- it adds so much depth and interest AND it makes the fountain shine. How spoiled are we! I’m laughing at all the stick - “ l declare this courtyard open” 🤣🤣🤣 Thank you for the beautiful carol Stephanie and Philip 🧡🌟🕊

[@cwatson1975]

Oh, I LOVE THE COURTYARD!! Espaliered lime trees will be breathtaking.

[@loveykukahiko4815]

The singing at the end...its August here in Hawai'i and I'm tearing for Christmas. That was so perfect. I wished I started watching years ago.

[@amppma7302]

such a feel good, quintessential christmas video! you just keep topping yourselves. thanks for posting

[@lisaglynn3121]

That’s a fact amp!

[@tinaoneill6746]

the court yard looks stunning.i love that the fountain your dad bought you is in the heart of it

[@baylorsailor]

"I declare this garden open!" 🤣

[@helenebourque3900]

Having Stephanie and Phillip singing that Christmas song gave me goosebumps! Thank you so much, This was the first time that I felt like my Christmas spirit existed! I really really have loved the advents this year. For me, this is, so far, the best one yet! Congratulations! Btw your aunt is such a delight to watch, she seems so loving, caring and having a great big heart! Please tell her that she should come visit you more often so that way we could enjoy her sweet company also!!

[@kerryannestevenson6099]

Do you know,this has really been a magnificent Advent Calendar, Thankyou and Merry Xmas on Winter Solstice 🌲👏🌲

[@karendesmit5601]

Just beautiful! Davey is such an asset to the chateau and to the transformation of the courtyard. And snow to complete the vlog, just lovely!

[@oliveappleby8672]

All we need now are Amaury’s dogs to make a complete family. Awesome work, you have such a great team working with you Stephanie…….🎄🎄💐🥰❤️

[@linky71]

Nearly wet myself when Stephanie was shovelling the dirt and Dan off camera in the Queen’s voice yells “I declare this garden open”. Too funny! Love these videos. You all truly are a dream team! So entertaining. Thank you!

[@nuttisniche1717]

I just KNEW you were doing something grand out there...but this is AMAZING BRAVO DAVY for seeing such a vision for Lalande!!! it is going to be GLORIOUS in the spring and all the yrs to come...whose to say WHAT was in the courtyard that may have been torn out for whatever reason long ago! to me it looks like it always should have been something ...Daddy would have cried so he sent snow...gave me chills to watch it unfold. how everyone pitches in to restore and bring back to her full glory.. it warms the spirit!! Happy Holidays to all of you there at the Chateau and to all who might read this 🎅🏼🤶🏼🖖🏼🎄♥🥂

[@marisaconner628]

What an enchanting home! And so beautifully decorated for Christmas! Amaury is so gifted as are his parents! I can see why you love it so! Thank you for sharing it with us!

[@samanthaporter6662]

Such a joy to see the chateau coming back to life more each day and every day!! ! Truly a treasure, both the chateau and Stephanie!!

[@twobluestripes]

I love, love, LOVE the lime trees. I think the view will be beautiful! I just holding my breath that the wire was removed/cut fully open before they were fully planted, and any plastic twine or rope present was removed. Wire may rust to the point of disintegration in very wet climates, but this area of France has a climate that reminds me more of Northern California, with only some moisture.

[@TheUkulelegal]

Beautiful singing!!!!!

[@mamabearlovesbts6087]

The ending was perfect..Stefanie & Amoury singing at the end was beautiful. Please please do a Christmas Album for next Christmas, with Phillip also. The Courtyard looks beautiful, can’t wait til Spring. Also, please tell Amoury he has such lovely parents, his Father is a joy, I love his sense of humor. His Mother..her love of the family Christmas history reminded me of my family. Merry Christmas everyone!!!!

[@TheChateauDiaries]

Thank you! But I was singing with Philip at the end 😊

[@missybelmont9830]

I LOVE your Aunt! So happy you are together for the holidays, can't wait til your mum comes home! Merry Christmas Queen Stephanie!!!

[@vivienneziegel9859]

Oh my I cried to see the snow and such a magical moment Steff and Phillip singing ❤️🦘❤️🦘❤️🎄🥂Merry Christmas to you all 💋

[@carlasinclair1986]

Absolutely spectacular! A fantastic addition to the chateau. And the singing at the end brought tears to my eyes xxx

[@andrewfrench4087]

Really ? I thought the singing was very good.

[@annsoforsman733]

A comment you might not like: me thinks those fine trees would have been better placed making a berrygarden, ornamentally planted with those trees cornering it. The trees in the courtyard sort of conceal that lovely fountain and planting around it. Merry Christmas and God bless. (berrys are nice stuff you can make a whole lot of things with them) Also I would ornament the courtyard by "paving" the are close to the wall - area for table and chairs, big flowr pots with ornamental trees etc that sort of thing.

[@jaxstorey6734]

Awwww...I have a tear in my eye...moments before you showed us that beautiful magical courtyard, complete with falling snow and the christmas lights, I felt completely moved! Et voila...there it was in its glory. and you and Philip singing...how utterly perfect was that! Love Jacqueline from New Zealand xox

[@briansilkworth5486]

We are 6 years in to a 10 year renovation of 2-1/2 acres of gardens, originally installed in 1942. We work with a landscape architect and we know the work and time involved in what you’re trying to accomplish. Merry Christmas, indeed! 🎁

[@MAC-op5fc]

Stephanie, you looked appropriately contrite while being scolded by your aunt. The courtyard is beautiful.

[@robertarogers998]

Hats off to Dan and Amaury. Wow you two work like the dickens. Dedication at its best! Love the harmony in the carol Philip. You have a beautiful voice.

[@romiehutson5230]

I just can’t believe Dave would allow keeping the wire on the ball of the roots. That will not allow roots to grow to full potential for strength

[@carenvisser607]

Whow. The end was everything with the lights and the singing. I was transported to another world. That was last Christmas. Wonder if you gonna top that this Christmas 2022. I love your house....your gardens and that church just does it for me. Everything is awesome and so is Amaury.

[@debbiebroughton8325]

Don’t like the idea of blocking the view out of the chateau and fountain, but hope I’m wrong x

[@raffaellavitiello1762]

Not wrong .... helas

[@sandiebell1676]

Beautiful beautiful beautiful courtyard. Magical in fact!

[@sillybeeful]

Ohh the carolling, the snow, the lights …. the vision and the hard work…. It’s so emotional. Well done everyone xx

[@suzit242]

I can't wait to see the trees in spring. I had no idea that Lime trees would grow in that region. Everyone worked so hard and had such a great attitude. What wonderful people!

[@michaelrutledge3750]

Happy Winter Solstice. We’re halfway to the light.

[@del_ecuras1836]

I do worry about Dan he never looks ready for the job ! Trainers Dan !

[@yvonnesullivan4388]

Thank God Amury came just in time

[@FrugalOverFifty]

This was beautiful, and your duet brought tears to my eyes. So lovely.

[@rosemariedeschenes7013]

Your aunt had every reason to be upset with you and her son. Safety first guys. The courtyard looks amazing and once it started snowing, it was just gorgeous. Stephanie and Phillip singing at the end was the perfect ending. Dan’s drone shots were spectacular per usual😍🎄

[@louisegatti9262]

This vlog was so beautiful Stephanie, brought tears at the end. You are blessed to have so many people around you that help you see your dreams become reality. So cool! That is going to be a beautiful courtyard when those trees begin to bloom. Just love your aunt and her reaction to you and Amary, what were you standing in the bucket of the digger??? Anyways, I think you have become a favorite Chateau owner for many people. I for one, look forward to seeing your many accomplishments!!

[@carolynf8997]

One of the things that makes me so fond of you Stephanie, is your faith in, support of, and loyalty to your family, friends and the people who work at or for LaLonde. I am not convinced about these trees at all. But will try to reserve judgement until spring and summer. Still think you can achieve the “height” Davy recommended with climbing roses, wisteria and / or (Boston?) ivy. After the rendering , interior shutters, balconies and balustrades are complete of course. And with proper support and design. Oh well. Merry Christmas and the happiest of New Years to all!!!

[@CynthiaBerry713]

@ARIEL geez bruh...word nazi are you?

[@carolynf8997]

My apologies for the typos. I expect LaLanders will understand and forgive me. Pretty sure I am not your “bruh”. That kind of snark doesn’t belong here and is disappointing. My best wishes to you for the holidays and new year.

[@Cantfi]

@@CynthiaBerry713 You seriously used the word nazi, that is so disgusting, and disrespectful to the millions of people that were killed by them.

[@MzJust1girl]

@ARIEL LOL People who are not "into" words always get all snotty with those who are. Makes me laugh. 😂

[@CynthiaBerry713]

@@Cantfi My humblest apologies for offending you.

[@gisellenorbury2369]

So exiting for you . Wow looks beautiful. Now you both know better . I will say no more . Because your Aunt did . Joyeux Noel.

[@peterwhite9261]

Beautiful. I am loving watching all of your camaraderie.

[@ginny736]

Maybe a good idea to have Davey explain the burlap and “wire” on those particular trees is actually biodegradable so no one will think it’s ok to plant trees with real wire on the root ball. Great vlog! Merry Christmas to you all! ♥️🎄🎅🏻

[@aceoline]

Not sure if this is sarcasm, but thanks for the alternative explanation.

[@raffaellavitiello1762]

It is a good idea . Wire are never biodegradable , and plastic can survive longest than the trees The fact they are not responding does not sound very good .

[@michaelmoore8834]

The four sessions statues would go perfect in the courtyard. I really like the addition of the lime trees

[@catherinem9204]

Very pretty with the Christmas lights at this time of year. Not sure about the frame design, takes away the emphasis from the beautiful fountain and the facade of the building. Just my thoughts 🎄🎅🎄

[@nacnud1]

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL LALANDER"S AND FRIENDS!!!

[@livingthegoodlifechannel]

Dan looks very excited at the prospect of carrying that pine tree out of the woods.

[@TheChateauDiaries]

😂

[@kathleenchesnick46]

How beautiful to hear you two sing together.

[@bonniebriggs4121]

You convincing Dan to buy the digger comment LOLOLOLOLOL!! What a magical evening scene! Merry Christmas!

[@scotthorn2362]

What lovely voices bringing Christmas to all of us ❤️👍🏼👍🏼🎄Ohio 🇺🇸

[@maryannferguson6291]

The duet at the end was just lovely!

[@amalilconfused]

Seriously Stephanie and Amaury’s family is just so gifted - looks, talents, and even their singing voices!

[@dreamchaseruk]

I just love your Aunt. 💞. The courtyard looks beautiful. Well done all x

[@alcssmith2090]

You guys singing at the end, so beautiful, loved it❤

[@autodidactin]

So much excitement and joy! Heartfelt thanks to Stephanie, the imaginative genius behind it all, and all the LeLanders who are making the dreams a reality. Got a little misty during “Noel”. Thank you for the labor of love these Advent vlogs are, they are so much appreciated.

[@FrankBlanchardAIFD]

Now that it's boxing day, I'm finally getting a chance to watch all of your holiday episodes. Loving seeing all the progress with the landscape.

[@jasondubey8251]

How beautiful! You made it snow! It's a Christmas miracle!!

[@deborrastrom8559]

Made me cry at the end....You & Phillip are the best! Love Dan & Cousin! Perfect 👌

[@clazienhol8173]

Tears in my eyes listen to this lovely voices

[@tuesdaychild4483]

So exciting to see the collaboration between Chateaux! I ❤️ Castle Ten Berghe as well!

[@janicebrowningaquino792]

This was HEAVEN!!! I loved every moment!!!!

[@jfs59nj]

You have brought me to tears an ocean away. Merry Advent indeed!!!

[@janetg1691]

In the future have a mockup on a computerized fashion of the are and the view change, so you can better decide before all the hard work is done. Your view of who is coming and going will be limited and the vehicles will have far less space to maneuver. I preferred a lower profile in the entrance area.

[@marionchanson5479]

The new espalier trees in the courtyard are going to give so much character and mystery to the chateau. Davy you're a genius!

[@annzak4905]

Merry Christmas My Beautiful Friends at Lalande 💞 May God Bless Us, Each and, Everyone 🙏🌟🙏

[@brendalee7520]

Beautiful Stephanie with beautiful courtyard! It brings tears of joy. You are meant to do all these. Merry Christmas to you n all🎉🍾🥂🤩

[@normanshadow1]

I feel these videos have elevated me in so many ways. For one, I've been trying to be more gracious and polite. A heart felt thank you to everyone at Lalonde. P.s. I loved the singing at the close, just gorgeous

[@jeanninef2110]

Yes to Stephanie's Tatie!! Agree 100%. Sometimes our adult children are not so adult! The courtyard is looking amazing!

[@doreenmaggio3624]

If only everyone could see the smiles and Joy all put together in one spot The World would be brighter then a sky filled with stars . Brilliant!!! Happy Christmas ✨✨✨🎶✨✨✨and Thank you All for lifting our spirits ✨🙏🏼✨💞

[@suzannehamilton-reid6600]

I am crying with happiness again. Oh I wish I was there.... It is simply beautiful, but the tree needs lights too ! xx

[@1234OopsyDaisy]

The courtyard looks beautiful with the Lime trees !