Our introduction to Downton Abbey is informal, and comes early in the episode of Season 1, Episode 1.  While upstairs the Crawleys are still nestled in their beds, there is a flurry of activity down below. In our introduction to the grand home, we see the engine that drives it all.  The maids rise at 6:00 am to open the drapes, dust furniture, tend to flower vases.  The footmen iron the newspapers for the Lord of the house.  Daisy, the scullery maid, lights fires in the various fireplaces around the house, as well as the kitchen stove (horrors).  The scene reminds me of the attention to detail you might expect to see at the grandest hotels. Gosh, I miss my stays at the Ritz Carlton. Continue reading »