I’ve been painting . . . and writing a new Willard! Will be posting something new soon! Unless it snows, then I might have to go outside and play! Happy Tuesday Girlfriends! ♥
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Hi Susan!!!!! so good to hear from you. I knew that you were very busy and while i’ve started decorating my home for Christmas….i have been thinking about what fun you are having getting your home ready for the magazine…can’t wait for tips, and that wonderful willard….and Happy Tuesday to you too. xoxo
Hi Susan! We girlfriends know you’ve got a lot on your plate, so thank you for taking the time to let us know you’re doing well. Hope you get outside to play in the snow! I’m so looking forward to your next post and Willard! Happy Holidays everyone! Tis the Season! ♥
Happy Work! Now don’t entertain us,just enjoy the work!:)
Good morning Susan~~~ So happy to see a new blog from you even if just a couple of lines. I’ve been thinking that you’ve been really busy, PLUS you have to get ready for the photographers from the magazine to come by in a couple weeks. Have you had a chance to start in on your decorating yet? I’ve started. Got all the boxes down and the lights on the tree are on. While my husband is gone for the next 3 days, I hope to get the house decorated. Right now, I’m making invitations for our annual potluck at our home for the “girlfriends” at church to be held mid December. This is the one time that the husbands/significant others are allowed, LOL This year there will be 3 new girls for a total of 22 people not including us.
Must get back at it and you, my dear ‘girlfriend’, carry on. Looking forward to the new Willard. And, if it snows, you will be forgiven if you want to go out and “play”.
Carol M
Joe is in the van going to get the tree right now! We picked it out over the weekend, but for some reason, there was no one around, even tho it said “open” — so he’s gone back to get it! We are on our way! Thank you Carol!
Ooh, such an exciting time for you — painting, writing, and anticipating snow!!!
I’ve been listening to Christmas music for the past two days, decorating, singing, loving life. Luncheon this Saturday with 5 other teacher friends, some of us retired, a few still working, but our lives have been woven amongst eachothers for over 25 years and I’m hoping this starts a new tradition in our lives. Highlight will be dessert: your cranberry apple crisp!! And Lucy is bringing your cranberry sauce — we’ll try it on cream cheese and crackers. And those wonderful cranberries are going to show up in bread, broccoli salad, AND Sangria!!!!! What a delight — wish you could join us! Thank you for all your inspirations. Ethel
P.S. I’m secretly praying for snow!
How fun! All cranberries! Please tell everyone I said HELLO!
For sure — we are all FOSB and it’s instant text or email when one of us finds out a new blog has been posted. We aren’t quite into the Facebook thing yet — but my daughters keep pushing me, so it may happen. Cheers!
hello, good morning everyone, looks like another storm is blowing into here as well, hope it brings us some snow, i do know for sure we can expect a soaker though. hope it snow for you susan, then you can go and play in it. build a snowman for all of us and have a ball in the snow. my hubby likes to take the cats out and roll them in the snow, they don’t like it, but they don’t mind it. have a fun and wonderful day, hugs…… 🙂
I’d like to see me try that … I bet Jack would allow it for an eighth of a second before he took off like a wild thing!
LOL they all take off like wild things and head for the door and the warm fire and their warm basket. they grumble and growl at him, but after a few minutes they are pals again, they going out in the snow all buttoned up in his jacket ( one at a time of course) and seeing the snow come down, seems to fascinate them. but then its back to the house and watching the feeders by all the windows, their version of kitty tv. they are patiently awaiting the arrival of their tree, we put up 2 trees each Christmas, one for us all decorated and one for the cats with their toys in it so they can play with them and leave our tree alone. right now they are raiding our sock drawer and stealing our socks. wonder what they want for christmas …….LOL!!!!! off to go take of Midnight, time for his medicine. he jumped on the woodstove and got a hot paw. the good thing is the burn is very minor and he will heal up in 7-10 days, in the mean time we put pure aloe vera gel on the paws to cool them and help them heal. he seems to lick it and if he does lick off the get, it won’t make him sick like a burn lotion would. he is doing much better today, he went out to eat, chased the others around and has stopped crying when he uses the kitty box. he’ll be fine and ready for mayhem and mischief by the holidays. hugs…… 🙂
Oh Pat you are such a good Kitty Mommy! A Christmas Tree just for them….love it!!!!
Oh, how funny:))))
My comment was to the first post where you said your husband took the cats and “rolled” them in the snow. Your second one was not up yet. Sorry your little sweetie had to learn the hard way what hot is:(
thank you Judi. Midnight is doing much better now, his paws are healing up very nicely, he is walking around normally, eating better, and no more crying because the kitty litter hurt his paws, he is almost back to his old self. the burns were not serious, but i have no doubt he learned that the woodstove is very hot and no place to jump on. Midnight should be be back to normal by the weekend. right now he is curled up in his basket by the fire and napping, he likes his warm basket, and his nap time. thanks again. hugs……. 🙂
HAPPY PAINTING!! LOVE this picture and saying!! So very true!.. My faves are Fall and Winter, but Spring is always good, and have to take Summer with a grain of salt… not a big hot weather person here!! Glad to see you enjoying the day… now back to work for me.. just a little break and gotta bring home the bacon!! LOL.. HAPPY TUESDAY Sue and all the GIRLFRIENDS!!!!
Oh, P.S. Susan… made your cranberry sauce, with a couple of tweeks for us.. just added an overflowing tablespoon of orange marmelade(sp?) and some chopped pecans … YUMMM… new favorite for our family!! THANKS!
Sounds wonderful! Thank you Diana!
I made it too for our family Thanksgiving and it was delicous! Thank you Susan!
Have a lovely day, sweetie! It’s been mostly rain here but we had a few pretty snowflakes mixed in this morning!
Hi Susan! Oh, another wonderful Willard is coming and I cannot wait!! Snow?? So perfect for decorating your home for the upcoming Yankee Tour. I can’t wait to see what you came up with out of all those goodies you bought before Thanksgiving either. This is going to be very exciting this month riding along with you for such an action packed month of traditions and surprises! We are supposed to get temps in the upper 70s over the next week or so. Not exactly inspirational for decorating. But my little 98 year old neighbor can still boast her tall and bright red Poinsettias growing up against her house!! And those require just the kind of weather that we re having. And my orange tree is weighted to the ground with satsuma oranges that are so delicious! Christmas really looks different down here. Was that the same for you when you lived in CA?
Yes, wild poinsettias growing all over buildings, oranges ready to pick, roses still blooming, sun still shining!
…the anticipation of flurries this evening along with a Christmas tree…so exciting…have fun…thank you for keeping us posted and soooo looking forward to seeing Willard for Christmas…” take joy “…
So sweet of you to do a post during this busy transition time between Thanksgiving and Christmas, Hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful. My family left late Sunday, so I took a little rest yesterday relaxing with your Christmas book, today I’ll put the house back in order for a clean slate to begin decorating. Tomorrow my daughter and I are taking 3 of my grandchildren to see Santa and have pics taken, they are so excited. Saturday a neighboring town is having a Santa parade, a tree lighting, hot chocolate and smores, I love this kind of stuff. You are such a busy lady Susan, but I get the feeling you enjoy every last minute of your wonderful life. I like to think of each Holiday ‘chore’, as a special event to enjoy, like the shopping, wrapping, cookie making etc. It seems this sweet blog is full of happy people enjoying themselves and you have brought them all together. Merry Christmas everyone.
Merry Christmas Anna!
Winter is here and Christmas is coming! Today’s weather is a good excuse to stay inside and bring out the decorations. No snow yet in MD, just cold rain. Thanks for checking in, Susan.
We had a few snow flurries this morning up on Braddock Mountain!
Too warm here in Columbia, Cathy!
Susan, Thanks for dropping us a line, I almost(almost) feel guilty that you have to do that, because we are “waiting” to see what new post is coming. I count 13 days until the Yankee Magazine comes. OMG. I wouldn’t be much fun to live with, if that was happening here!! I bought a REAL tree this year…the first in 20 years! I can smell it every time I walk by! I’m excited to decorate it!
Took in 3 kittens Thanksgiving Day…..wilder than a March Hare! I wish I could report that it is going better than it is. I am making little progress with them. IF ANY GIRLFRIENDS out there have suggestions, boy am I open to them!
I know you’re having a good time working, so keep on, keepin on! Hope it snows for you. Not likely to happen here! Love, Chris
Three! I’ve done that before, gotten three kittens. Be sure to get a scratching post right now, get them used to it before it’s too late! Other than that, it should be easy. Show them cat box, and you’re done with that. Are they crazy?
They are WILD. No human contact up to this point. They are hiding under the bed in a guest room, hissing and spitting! They are using the litter box, thank god. When I got them I had to wear gloves…they might be little (6 – 7 weeks), but they can bite and scratch. I feel so sorry for them, I know they are scared to death. I just don’t know what else to do to win them over. Any suggestions the girlfriends have would really be appreciated.
Ohhhh, OK, take one out of the room at a time, and hold it and pet it and get it used to you. Hold them in a firm way, like you would a baby, it would comfort them. Everything you want to do with a cat has to be done as young as possible. If they get any bad habits, its hard to break them, in fact, perhaps impossible, after they’re older. So if you want the cat to be a cuddler, start now, hold him even if he doesn’t want to, and in the way you like, in your arms like a baby, or over your shoulder. Keep them in that room for about a week, and just take out one at a time; sometimes go in and sit on the floor with all three, take some toys–they just need to get to know you, they’re scared to be away from their mom — Read THIS, it might help. Good Luck! You’ll be fine!
We have them in a quiet room. My granddaughter stayed to help me with them. She’s been talking to them, knitting and working on her computer in that room. We bought them toys, gave them turkey feathers, still need to buy a scratching post. One of the black & white ones, the littlest, seems like he might be more ready than the other two. Working one on one is probably a really good idea. If one hisses they all get scared. I don’t even know what they are yet, so I just call them The Bad Boys. I have an adult cat female, I wondered if she could help, but thought I would wait on that, at least give it a week or so before I see if that would work. The article you sent looks helpful, especially the Feliway that is supposed to calm them. I may need that by the gallon! Not sure I would have taken this on if I had known they were feral. Plus I need to get them to the vet for shots, another scarey thing for them. Poor things. If you could see the 3 of them huddled under the bed. They are always together. Okay, as soon as I get home I will read the article in depth and order the Feliway. I’ll keep you posted.
XXOO
Your babies should be kept separate from the adult; she probably isn’t going to be crazy about them. They should play footsie under the door for a couple of weeks first. If they are that young, it doesn’t matter if they’re feral, they’ll be fine with a bit of love and time.
hi chris, congrats on taking in 3 kittens. i have to agree with susan, get them a scratching post and show them the kitty box and be sure they use them both. other than that you might want to take them to the vet for a check up and shots, and to determine how old they are and when to get them spayed or neutered and make that appointment. for toys have a stick, some strong string and some feathers tied on the end of the string and let them play with that. also jingle balls to chase, they will be in that stalk, catch kill mode right now, its all play but they need to do it. good luck and i hope they give you many years of fun, love and good memories. hugs….. 🙂
Yes, pretend they are children, the more of YOU that you can give, the better cats they will be when they grow up.
Wish I was there to help you. Miss my sweet kitties.
I agree with Susan and Pat! They need your patience and love right now. Deal with only one at a time. Are they brother and sister? If so, at least they have an attachment with one another and they will get comfort from each other.
We had several ferral cats next door to us several years back. What a mess that was! Felt so sorry, EXCEPT they ALL used our yard as their bathroom. I didn’t like that at all. They were full grown so not much could be done with them. I did ahold of a new batch about a month after their birth. Took them all to the pound ( a no kill pound) so they could find nice homes for them. I’ve always heard once wild always wild. Good luck with the 3 of them!
To answer Carol’s question, they are litter mates. Don’t even know if they are boys/girls? Jim’s son told me he found the mother cat and kittens in the barn at the ranch. I had no idea he had not handled them. He is going to keep mama. He said the barn has never been so devoid of rodents. So I took all 3, because I need some barn kitties. My house cat Katherine Rose refuses to go outside. But now I have them in the house, otherwise I won’t be able to tame them. Funny, how plans go awry!
LOL, that does sound funny! Such a nice problem to have (I hope!).
We have rescued many cats, and I must say, I hate the word “feral”. What the cats really are is scared, very scared. Like people, they need patience and time. Add to that, they are babies.
Perhaps the Mom cat could be brought to your house until they are a little older?
When your granddaughter goes in the room, I would suggest she talk to them, so they get familiar with her voice. We have had the kids read to our rescues in a sweet, soft voice and that, over time, calms them down. I wouldn’t worry about the vet for awhile, sounds like they are already too scared.
If they are going to be “barn cats” (I despise that word too), I hope you are thinking of ways to protect them and keep them safe. So many times, these “barn cats” become sick, hurt by outside conditions, and, basically, thrown away. We have rescued many a “barn cat”.
Is your son keeping the Mom as a “barn cat” too? She is probably, once calm and not scared, as sweet as can be and would love a good home and soft bed at night.
Also, this might seem like common sense to some, but “barn cats” need to be feed too. Hunting does not supply them with enough sustenance. In fact, a lot of their hunting is merely playing to them and, many times, they don’t eat their prey.
Hi Abbey,
Not sure why you don’t like the term ” Barn Kitties”. Most of the barncats my friends have and the ones I have had over the years are healthy, happy cats. They have shelter, good food and health care; the 3 basic for anyone!
Of the 3 animals that live in my house, 2 dogs and a cat, only one, the Golden Retriever, is actually an animal I chose. The others are all rescues who’s lives were greatly improved the day I found them. These 3 kittens from the ranch had zero chance of being adopted. And the reason they were there in the first place is because someone dropped off an unwanted cat.
While I am not a novice comcerning animals, I will admit I have never had kittens so wild; that never had any human interaction. So I am really appreciative of everyone’s advice. No matter how old we are, we are all still learning.
I wish I could save all the animals I encounter that need a home, but I can’t. My prayer is that everyone spay and neuter their pets and try to give what money you can to organizations that improve the lives of animals.
I really do appreciate all the advice and I am working with the kitties everyday, very slowly.
Thanks Girlfriends! Chris
I think anyone who rescues a kitty, and cares for them, is a hero! ♥
Well, you are all invited here to play in the snow as we got snow Thanksgiving Day! But with temperatures finally getting above freezing today, it will be melting fast… 🙂 The weatherman said last night that in 2009 we had quite a bit of snow by now. We’re decorating for Christmas here, too. Away with the orange and golds of Fall and in with the reds and greens. I can’t imagine living somewhere where you didn’t have the 4 seasons. I love the first couple of snows but wish it would snow only on the grass and trees–not on the roads–because it takes people a while to get used to slowing down and being more careful of slippery roads! 🙂
I miss 4 true seasons, but I can’t stand March in WI. Gray…
March is clearly thirty one days long. The longest month, but the one that makes us wild for spring.
“March makes us wild for spring” !!! Love that….Sounds like one of your sayings. Do you have it painted somewhere?
Only on my heart! 🙂
Not last March~ it was 70 and sunny on St. Patrick’s Day!
This is so funny because one of my sisters always says “if I had the power to wipe one whole month off the year, it would be March…” I agree with her too. March can be warm and windy and very Springy… but usually isn’t. At least here in western New York. We usually get our heaviest, gloppiest snow in March. When the weather’s beginning to warm up the snow weighs a ton. Snowball-making snow. Not like that nice feathery light snow you get when it’s really cold… :>)
PS – I’m so excited! A couple of months ago I’d finally decided to get that beautiful heavy turquoise ceramic bowl in the vintage section of the web store – I’d been drooling over it for quite a while – and was heartbroken when I found it gone. A lesson learned, I told myself. He who hesitates… But then tonight I was browsing around looking for something for my Secret Santa “giftee” and peeked in the vintage section again – and it was back! Or at least another one just like it is! And now it’s mine – ALL MINE! Bwah-ha-ha-ha-ha! [sound of hands being rubbed together greedily]. Yippee! :>)
Looking forward to Willard. I’m excited to be leaving for” Christmas in Williamsburg” tomorrow, but will keep checking in. Happy holiday preparations-and since I’m driving. I hope you get the snow.
We’ll take it, drive safely!
viv – I’m jealous! I’ve always wanted to go to Williamsburg for Christmas. Have fun!
I’m jealous, too. You are so lucky!
Me too! Christmas in Williamsburg would be a dream come true – just imagine! I’ve read about a tour that AAA does every December – my mother and I often talked about going. Please tell us a bit about it when you get back, Viv… and have a wonderful time!
Love that poem Susan! Back on US soil…After the errands I will have to go for a walk in the woods and then head to the library to get more of Mr. Browne’s poems to read.
If you haven’t been to Williamsburg at Christmas time you girlfriends must go, especially if you are within driving distance. The restaurants in the historic village are delicious!
We did Christmas in Williamsburg way back in 1990. My husband (now ex-husband) and my parents. We had fertility issues so not having children at Christmas was extremely hard. So we started traveling during that time of the year. It was our Christmas present to each other. Williamsburg was magical!!! They don’t allow plastic or anything that is not “real.” So fruits are combined into wreaths and other decorations and candles are the main source of lighting. Going to the Episcopal church there for midnight mass was especially memorable. I would highly recommend visiting Williamsburg anytime, but especially during Christmas!:)
I’d always thought it would be wonderful to rent one of the historic houses for Thanksgiving there. We’ve yet to do that, but we did rent one for a couple nights after Christmas in 2000. They were still doing their special Christmas programs. It was especially great at night when they held their torch lit pageants.
Is that Bruton Parish church in the historic area, Susan? From what I understand one of my ancestors donated the land that the church is on—so proud of that. I have always wanted to spend Christmas at Williamsburg too. These Comments are definitely reviving my interest in doing so. xoxo
That makes me laugh because some of my people came to America from a little English village near Bath called Bruton.
I looked up Bruton Parish Church on Colonial Williamsburg’s website. And found that “It is named for Bruton, Somersetshire, in England, the home of then-Governor William Berkeley and Virginia secretary Thomas Ludwell.” Bath is also in Somerset County so it must be named for the village to which you refer. It also confirmed that my ancestor, Colonel John Page, did, indeed, donate the land. Small world, and getting smaller all the time!
We went there, went through the 14th century church, tried to see if anyone looked like us!
LOL!!!
Glad to see you’re still around and all is well. When you go MIA for a bit, we worry, but then it quickly gives way to, “Hmmm, I wonder what she’s up to now?” Always something good and exciting we know. Hope you get a little snow to cheer on your Christmas decorating. Pretty chilly here in the maritimes these days… snow around the corner at any time. I attended a baby shower on Sunday and the last name of the couple is Snow. Such awesome gifts. Bibs that said Let It Snow!Clothing with snowflakes. Snow is definitely in the air here. Looking forward to your house all decorated for Christmas. Hope the creative juices are just flowing freely for you this year. It’s a very special Christmas at your house.
Hi Susan… Happy Tuesday to you too!… I hope you get that snow so you can go out and play in it… I still make snow~angels, and now my sweet doggie Tessy makes what we call “Snow~dog Angels” with me… I can hardly wait for my next Willard!… I have read my first one over and over and over… I went in to your online shop to buy the Squirrel cup for myself for Christmas and I don’t see any… are they sold out?… much love, xoxo Julie Marie
I don’t know, I’ll ask Kellee!
Julie Marie…..hit the “contact us” button….Kellee will respond asap and help you. The blotter calendar was sold out but she notified me immediately when a new shipment came in….can’t imagine a year without a SB blotter on my desk! 😉 Merry Christmas!
I wish I knew as much about this site as you do! 🙂
Susan, you can’t be totally up on everything! Kellee is a sweetheart and does respond right away and does a very good job.
Carol M
She’s wonderful! Has worked for me/been my friend for ten years.
Happy Tuesday to you!!!
HI Susan, So good to hear from you. It is snowing here in my corner of Pennsylvania, Allentown/Quakertown area,that is sousth east Pa.
Iced moca coffee to enjoy as I watch the snow comming down. I can’t drink hot chocolate. Though I can drink chocolate milk. I think it is the hot milk that effects my tummy. The deer are in the yard, this years twins. They are so cute…. 🙂 It is hard to wait to see what you have next for us. I check every day though I did miss posting about Yankee Magazine. Looking forward to seeing what they choose from all your decorating for their article about you & yours. You must be so excited. I am excited for you…….
Good to hear from taking a pause in all of your work! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your loved ones. I am just coming down from my sugar high! lol! Bring on the snow, the shopping, the rolls of wrapping paper, the carols and old Christmas movies! I’m ready! 😀
XO,
Jane From Chicago
~ Good Afternoon~
No chance of snow here this week as it might be 60 by the weekend!
The weather here in Wisconsin has sure been odd this year~ enjoy it while I can I guess ~but it just doesn’t feel right!~ Back to making White Chicken Chili and my Christmas music~
” £et it Snow, £et it Snow, £et it Snow!”
HI Lynn,
Can we have that recipe??? Did the cran-butter turn out ok???
Hi~
Here are the recipes for both. I maybe would have add a bit more sage to the cranberry butter~ but I like sage.
The chicken chili is ridiculously easy! Great to bring to a potluck or someone who may need a meal brought to them.
Fresh Cranberry Butter
1 C butter ~ softened to room temperature
1 C fresh cranberries
2 Tbsp. honey
1 Tbsp. fresh minced sage
1 Tbsp orange zest
1. Combine all ingredients in food processor & pulse until cranberries are macerated evenly into the butter mixture.
Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl a few times between pulses.
2. Place into a bowl, cover & chill until needed. Makes 2 cups.
Use the butter on the turkey (under the skin while roasting), potatoes, bread or rolls.
White Chicken Chili
48 oz jar of Great Northern beans, rinsed
3 chicken breasts, boneless & skinless
( I like to use Tyson Grilled & Ready chicken breast strips in a pinch)
2 C chicken broth
2 C salsa, thick & chunky
1 C mozzarella cheese
Light sour cream
Cut chicken into small pieces. Spray bottom of a large pot with cooking spray. Place chicken in pot and cook through~ about 10 minutes. Drain.
(Skip this step if using the precooked chicken. Defrost the desired amount of chicken, cut into small pieces and then add to pot.)
Add beans, chicken broth, & salsa. Simmer 1 hour.
Serve topped with cheese & a spoonful of sour cream if desired.
Can be frozen.
10 servings
Have added more sage is what I meant to write~ just a smidgen more! Welcome back too!
Thank you for doing this, Lynn – I have a whole [large] extra bag of cranberries that I know what to do with now! And I love White Chili so I’ll be making that one too! To put it my beautiful new vintage bowl! :>)
Thank you so much Lynn!
Thank you!!
Thanks Lynn–looks good! Perfect for supper with some cornbread!!! 🙂
Thanks Lynn!!! You’re a sweetie! My sister makes white chili, but I wanted your recipe. LOL
Ha ha! Now you can give her ” yours”!
Hi again~
The chicken chili recipe should read 1 carton chicken broth ~ it comes out to 4 cups.
Sorry for the mix up!
Susan, sounds like lots Christmas magic is happening! Snow would make it perfect!
Thanks for sending us the note, we all know how busy you are……. ♥ ♥ ♥
“Happy Elf-ing !”
Sending hugs, and some kisses for the kitties!
thank you, Susan, for painting! your painting brings joy to our hearts.
xoxo!
Susan, What a lovely surprise to see your post – love it! The quote and the serene lighthouse! Painting and a new Willard – woo hoot!!!! I can hardly wait.
I’ve put away all the fall decorations, giving the house a good cleaning, finished designing my Christmas card – now I have to get painting (watercolors too) to finish it and begin decorating. I made a beautiful (if I say so, myself) wreath over the weekend and finished a Christmas ornament too. I need to make some garlands and picked up some uber cute pompoms (as inspired by your last post), now to sit and put them together!
We had a few wee flakes here yesterday evening. It was a wind chill of 8 this morning…brrrr…in central IL – I’d love a few inches!
Happy tree decorating and hoping you can have some play time for all of us!
Much love and soft as snowflakes floating down hugs!
XooX,
Jeanette
H
All the children are snug in their blankets for a little rest time…I just wanted to pop in and say Hi.
I’ve enjoyed your blog so much the past few weeks but have been too busy to comment. You are amazing….so organized…Thank you so much for giving us food for thought and inspiration to make our lives better.
Traditionally, Thanksgiving had been at our house…for over 30 years. But as the family is growing and changing, the baton passed to the first married son and DIL a few years ago so that the in-laws could be included. It’s become more complicated with our daughter and SIL living out of state and the arrival of our first granddaughter. We just got back home from a visit to Charleston, SC, where my daughter, SIL and sweet granddaughter, Isabella, live. We shared a wonderful Thanksgiving Day dinner with them (our daughter has become such a good cook…making stuffing just like me and my mother and grandmother before me!) It was such a blessing to be able to travel to be with them but the best part was Izzy’s FIRST BIRTHDAY on the day after Thanksgiving! She is just pure JOY wrapped up in a most adorable little package! Don’t ask me where the past year went …. time sure has a way of passing too fast. She’s walking…skip that….running and saying a few words and melting all hearts in her path:)
So Thanksgiving traditions are evolving in our family…but I’m holding tight to Christmas tradition…everyone will be here for Christmas Eve and Christmas morning! I know the time will come when I’ll have to let go so the newly-formed, young families can start their own traditions but for now I thank God that I have this year to prepare for everyone under one roof.
As I’m cleaning and “decking the halls”, I’ll be thinking of you and Joe and all the excitement surrounding your preparations…Yankee Magazine! Wow! Such an honor…a well-deserved honor!
Happy Painting, Happy Decorating, Happy Tuesday, Sue!
xoxoDebbie
Lovely comment Debbie! Thank you!
And who would blame you???!!!! 🙂 Send some south!
Can’t wait to see your house after it’s decorated! Tried to order your 2013 calendars from your website over the weekend, but they were all gone (Waaah!) But all is not lost–I found one at the mall yesterday! I’m off to wrap gifts for the rest of the afternoon, then tomorrow put up the Big Tree. I’ll be watching every day for your latest post!
Have fun, Nadine
What stores are your stickers, calendars, books, etc. in????
I found the recipe binder with the wonderful magnets and notepad at Barnes ‘N Noble. I got her small 2013 calendar from Amazon.
I have a couple of other books of hers on my wishlist at Amazon, as well.
Love it! Thank you, you darling girl, you get an amazing amount of work done, you are youthful!! xoxo
Hi, Susan. What a happy surprise for me to see a teeny, teaser blog from you this morning. Long or short, it always makes my day. It was a little brisk when I took my morning walk today, the weatherman said it will be 70 degrees this afternoon, but you might have snow! Enjoy! Even though I live in an older neighborhood with lovely trees and non-cookie cutter houses, I was determined to find a more nature-y walk in my neighborhood that I could walk every morning besides just walking around the streets and sidewalks and, lo!, I discovered a canal that runs behind the houses in the neighborhood. I think it must be left over from when the area was planted in fig trees and other growing things. The canal banks have trees from the yards hanging over and the canal passes by the back of a school, a church, and a soccer field as well as many backyards. Last week, I saw a whole flock of wild geese grazing on the soccer field and occasionally there are Mallard ducks in the canal. Yesterday I saw a lone heron in the canal! My window sill is crowded with treasures like acorns, colored leaves, and bird feathers I find on my morning walks. Thanks for inspiring me to find my nature walk right in the middle of the city.
Oh I’m so proud of you for doing that hunt. I think there’s always a place! We had to do it too when we moved here, and actually we have to drive to where the dirt road starts — it’s not too far, so we don’t mind, I just don’t like walking on hard surfaces or breathing car fumes! Your walk sounds wonderful!
Carin, I think you are very fortunate to fine such a lovely place for a walk. There are just homes in my neighborhood. The one really nice park that meanders in the tall Siquioas (sp) and down by a pond would be the best place to walk, but alass, it’s dangerous. We have soooo many homeless in our city and drug people, you really have to be careful. Where we were going to move, up to WA, had a canal running behind the homes. I was so looking forward to walking each day there. Carol M
Thanks, Susan, I enjoy the walk very much. This is a little (a lot) off topic, but are you a fan of Downton Abbey, the PBS English mini series? I’m mad about it and Season 2 left off with the Downton Abbey Christmas Special so I guess all this Christmas cheer reminded me to ask you about it. Season 3 starts in January and I can’t wait. You have time to catch Season 1 and Season 2 on DVD if you don’t already follow it. Thanks again for all you do.
Last night we watched a kind of “Here-comes-Season-Three” recap of one and two! I just love Maggie Smith — she’s so funny!
I heard Ms. Smith is leaving the show. Is it true??
They didn’t say that! I hope not!
Maggie Smith was great in ” The Most Exotic Marigold Hotel” and “The Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood”. She is SO funny!!
And the Prime of Miss Jean Brody!
I love Downton Abby too and am very excited for it to come after the Christmas holiday…something to look forward to in the cold MN. Jan!
Hi Susan,
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. The weather here in WNY was lovely!
Now we now have snippets of snow here & there. Hope it stays for Christmas.
Can’t wait to see your tree all decorated. How on earth do you “Jack-proof” it?! I read somewhere that if you tie little jingle bells along the bottom branches, you’ll know when the cats are playing near it. I think that the jingle bells would attract them!
Me too. He was good last year, we’ll soon see how he behaves this year!
I have friends that keep a spray bottle of water near. If their sweet kittie does something they are not suppose to – they get warned and then…..misted. Funny how a mist of water scares them a bit….and never hurts them. She just uses it as a training aid.
We used to have a sort of machine gun squirt gun when our kitties decided that knocking everything off the dresser top was the way to start Sunday mornings off right.
The squirt of water always worked on my previous cats. My new kittens are attracted to water and seem fascinated by it. When we spray them, they look at us like they are thinking “why would you do that?” and continue on what they were doing.. LOL We are now trying hand clapping to sort of startle them. I have decided to get a real tree and decorate it with all cat proof decorations this year, and see how pretty I can make it. It has become a challenge for me and I am looking forward to it… We have so many laughs watching them, and I’m sure the tree will bring some new laughs!
Good luck to both of us!
You are all so sweet and understanding and I love hearing from you! Thank you!
🙂 welcome dear! xoxo
we all love hearing from you, it makes our day that much brighter.
And we love love love hearing from you, Sweet Sue! ^-^:):)
Bless your heart!
Jeannie
What a lovely post! I have been thinking that you’re probably painting and decorating working your fingers to little nubbins!! Plus cooking and celebrating too!
Take care and have a wonderful week! Looking for to hearing about Jack’s adventures with the decorations this year! 😉
Oh Susan, I know you are so busy and we all appreciate your efforts! ~squeal~ I heard you mention Willard and you know me..that word is pure excitement to me! I’m so you are well and looking forward to *snow*!
Blessings,
Gert
Happy snow day Susan! I am anxiously awaiting Willard, so fun to read on a wintry day…..I started decorating as well, how exciting for you to have Yankee coming, I subscribe so I’ll be watching for it next year. I don’t know how you find time to do everything…you must have little fairies helping you! Have a wonderful snowy day! East Longmeadow, Ma.
Back at ya, Miz Susan – Happy Tuesday! Have all my decorations out and am beginning to place around the house. My Christmas Party is on the 8th so everything must be in place by then…and it will be. Christmas tree will come in over this coming weekend. Enjoy your day!
Susan … it’s snowing here in central Pennsylvania. There’s something magical about the first snow of the season!
even if it doesn’t snow, you should go outside and play…life is short! -lol-
I just did, it’s cold out there, but no snow, and Joe’s been raking!
I know that is a job in NE. I just saw a great leaf collecting tray to move the leaves at Plow and Hearth. It beats the tarps we used to use.
I took pictures of Joe’s piles … will try to put it up … that’s a LOT of leaves!
Thanks!!! The trees just aren’t the same here as in WI or New England.
And you should see the trees in England! I have never seen such gigantic “normal” trees — of course Giant Sequoias, but these are trees like we have, only a hundred times bigger.
It was 80 degrees here in Texas today. Can you believe it? This weekend is supposed to be even warmer.
Do you like that? Because it’s perfect for swimming, but bad for sledding! 🙂
I did just that the other day with my Miggy in the snow that is now all gone . We had fun ! Have a great day !
Oh, thank you Susan! For Thanksgiving I made your grandmother’s sage dressing. Simply the best I’ve ever eaten or made. I’m so thrilled to have this recipe and I will make it again for Christmas for ALL the family to enjoy. I had made turkey stock the day before so I added 2 cups of it to the hot water before dipping the dried out bread in and then wringing it out. I chuckled at the crunchy sound the bread made. We had cornbread for breakfast that day so I added a handful. I LOVE the texture and so flavorful!!!!!! Thanks from me and my family to you, your mom, and your sweet grandma. Happy Holidays!
You are so welcome, I’m happy you liked it!
Hey Susan,
Here in southern Cali, we are expecting some rain starting tomorrow…so let it rain, let it rain, let it rain! I’m home with a nasty cold, so I’ll enjoy it from inside.
Knowing a “Williard” is coming soon brightens my day!
XOXO from San Juan Capistrano…
Jerri
Feel better Jerri!
TANK Q (my stuffy-headed voice)
feel better soon Jerri, lots of fluids, hot tea, juice and water, and lots and lots of chicken soup. that should help you get better soon. i know i’m right there with you, i have a cold too, only it went into my chest. so lots of vick’s vavporub for me and warm sweatshirts. feel better soon. hugs……. 🙂
I always feel like I’m getting a present when opening your blog. Such fun! Thank you!
I’ve been wanting to tell you that I made batches of your Spiced Pecans (Autumn book) for Christmas gifts for my board members. I put them in big canning jars and cut out a square of Christmas fabric to put over the tops. They look so festive all in a row on my kitchen countertop, and I know the girls will love them! I have to make them when my husband is out of town, else there’s nothing left to give away!
🙂
Hi Susan,
We’ve each got the same number of hours in a day. If you’ve found a secret stash, it’s in your best interest to share it with all the girlfriends! 🙂 Once upon a time I was 3 people……now I’m down to one and she doesn’t get it all done anymore. Need to find where those other two are hiding.
Hope it’s ok that I added Girl’s and Jack’s pictures to my Pinterest ‘Pets’ board. I add all my friends’ pets as I get them.
Just have to tell you that your posts take me right back to a lifetime in New England. A cold evening, some hot cider (don’t hold the SC), Miss Maui in my lap and it’s almost as good as being home.
ps….bought myself a Honey Crisp apple and ate it. Then I walked back and the store and bought a lot – apple pie that night!
Hi Susan and Girlfriends, Been pretty busy past few weeks, but have been checking in and Wow! such exciting things going on here! Truly generous of you Susan to take time and give us that lovely saying and artwork! So excited for a new Willard – I finally seem to be getting in the Christmas spirit! Thank you! Carry on and happy snow!
I ordered one of the Brown Bird teacups with saucer and it came yesterday!! I love, love , love it!!! Merry Christmas to me. I am eagerly anticipating the new Willard–thanks so much for the wonderful postings.
Aren’t they darling? SO glad you got one!
Gosh, you wish for snow and we get it! LOL It started to snow around 8 a.m. and as the day worn on the flakes got bigger and bigger. It was heavy and wet and was weighing down the evergreen branches and my first thought was “oh no, another black out”. But, knock wood, it didn’t happen. It’s stopped now, the roads are melted but the ground is covered in white. Now it feels very Christmasy. Did it reach you yet? Warm, Fuzzy hugs from NJ……
Nooo, just wet, and very cold, maybe slush at best, melting immediately at touch down!
There is nothing I love more than the ocean and the snow. We don’t have this in northern California. So the picture of the lighthouse with snow falling brought me such joy!! Someday I hope to see the snow and ocean together.
Thank you for your sweet Blog and posts. I am always waiting for the next one. :o)
The first time I saw snow on the sand, next to the water, I was oddly surprised … I never thought about it before and it seemed funny to me, but there it was! And very beautiful.
No snow here in SoCal, but I am still adjusting to seeing palm trees when the temps drop here and it’s cloudy and dark and I’m cold . I never associated palm trees and low temps before !
Welcome to my world! I’m in San Juan Capistrano near the beach in south OC. I grew up in SW Ohio–just went back for a class reunion. Hope you will enjoy winters in SoCal!!
We had a piece of paradise down in a valley in WI with a spring fed creek running through it. (That would run all winter long). We would go there in the winter and camp …..magic…we would plop our chairs down in the snow, build a fire in the fire pit near the creek, pour a bit of Drambuie in our hot coffee and sit back. The sound/look of the creek, the fire with blues, oranges, yellows, the diamond look of the snow – wow, that was heaven. I can close my eyes and recall those wonderful memories:)
Beautiful!
Sounds like heaven 🙂
Melissa, That has always been my wish too! The ocean and the snow together! Not likely here in So. Cal!
I hope you all had a lovely Thanksgiving! I know you are busy with the decorating and the Yankee Magazine people coming – good luck with all that! Looking forward to the new Willard!
Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow! I can’t WAIT for snow. I love to sit down, with the candles lit and my blankie over my lap and watch the snow fall while I watch “Little Women” (the one with June Allyson and Elizabeth Taylor) – wonderful feeling of home and warmth. Enjoy the season – the music, the food, the friends and family, the decorations – ALL OF IT – BUT IT IS MADE BETTER WITH SNOW!!! Can’t wait for Willard!
The forecast does show snow on your island and I am hoping for a few photos when it does begin to fall!
I hope I can show you some!
Most people I know, here in California, are here to never have to deal with snow, and when I say things like, “I wish it would snow” or “I want to live where it snows” they look at me like I’m from outer space!! Knowing that you are originally from CA. AND that you look forward to snow, makes me feel a little less weird!! Was it an adjustment for you? My family tries to make Christmas lists for each other for gift ideas, mine is easy, “anything sold on Susan Branchs’ web site”! Thank you so much for making our lives a little more “warm and fuzzy”.
I’m actually writing about that exact thing for the Willard, the “adjustment!” Funny you should ask! 🙂 And thank you for the very same thing! xo
I’m really looking forward to the new Willard too. The last one was the first one I’ve ever received and I didn’t know what to expect. I love them !
I have lots of fun writing them too!
Love to you and kittys and joe
Relax if possible
hello susan.
can’t wait to see what yankee magazine has to say/show !
no real snow here in ancaster, but i’m hoping!
hugs from here.
No snow here,just plenty of sunshine,expected temperature in Victoria,Australia tomorrow 38 degrees C.
It’s been snowing in upstate NY for the past few days, it really helps get the spirit awakened! The other thing that never fails to awaken my “spirit” is a visit to your blog. Thank you Susan! Don’t ever doubt the importance of your words.
Such a nice thing to say!
This is sooooo true~
Hi Susan…it’s me again the one with the cold in San Juan Capo. Since I am home today, I went online to Amazon and ordered a subscription to Yankee magazine for $15.97 so I won’t miss the issue featuring *YOU* next year. Merry Christmas to me.
xoxo Jerri!
So happy to hear from you. Of course, I always check EVERY day – as though I think that you have nothing else to do but write to we wonderful girlfriends 🙂 Seriously, every word you write is always appreciated. I bought a sign today that says “I LOVE Snow Days!” If only I was in a place where it was snowing. I picked up the keys to the cabin in Washington and wondered if I should go out and jump in the car. But I didn’t do it. I miss it sooooo much. And when it snows it is difficult to keep me away. Just talked to a friend in Paso Robles who has a cabin only 40 miles to the east of my cabin. What a small world! I look forward to Williard – NATURALLY! Take care, Susan and Joe and everyone out in the world! XXXXOOOO
Susan, so glad to hear from you. Know how busy you are and am so excited to see your decorations for the Yankee Mag. Looking forward to seeing the new Willard.
We have a new kitten at our house, she is now 6 mos. and we have fattened her up quite a bit in a 3 week period. She came from the Humane Society and had been left outside to fend for herself. She is such a pretty girl and I know Jack would love her.
Carry on and can’t wait to see all your new creations, hugs, Sharon
You are a life saver, 6 months, what did you name her?
We decided to name her Maggie and it suits her. She has been a joy. We had lost (passed) our beautiful black cat Maxx a little while back and decided it was time for a new little one in the house. Glad we did!!
Love the name!
She’s famous – she’s Maggie the Cat – from “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” [Tennessee Williams]. Congrats, Sharon! :>)
Hi Susan – – Guess what arrived in my mailbox today??!! The 1946 edition of The Tale of Beatrix Potter, a Biography, by Margaret Lane. Loving Peter Rabbit so much and intrigued by your delightful Peter Rabbit bedroom, and spotting this book in your June 11th blog, I set out to find the book. It came from Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, United Kingdom, with a gold sticker on the package that’s marked Royal Mail. I will put all this information inside the book. The dust jacket is exactly like the one in your picture. I guess you can tell I’m excited! Thank you again for your wonderful paintings and writings. Have a wonderful holiday! Hugs from Minnesota, Ruthie
That’s my favorite of all my BP books! With the yellow cover! And from England! I’m excited FOR you! Can’t you just feel its energy?!
Hi Susan,
jan from KY. here. Happy Tuesday to you!
Happy Tuesday, and now, Happy Wednesday too!
Unable to process my Christmas order, I keep getting a server error. What is wrong?
Is everything OK now? Kellee was away yesterday, so I couldn’t ask her, but it seems to be working for me. Let me know!
Oh Susan…. this is Colorado and there is no snow!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m going to have to do a snow dance, except for right around Christmas when my daughter and her husband will be DRIVING here from California….. yes, I know (silly, right??)
But for THIS WEEK, we’re in the 60’s and dry, dry, dry…… serious drought conditions prevail and not good after a summer of fires and very dirty air because of the smoke and pollution from the flames.
BUT, inside, it’s cozy and fun….. the Fall things have come down and there are boxes and boxes and boxes of Christmas goodies piled in the front room. I fell and tore two ligaments in my left foot (so I can still drive to the grocery store!!) but it’s slowing me down just a bit. There may be more knitted items as gifts this year!!! ha-ha-ha….
Happy as a lark….and blessings abound…..
Even if there is no snow on the ground
So to Susan and Joe faraway on MV
Keep writing and Painting for all of us to see!
Happy last days of November sweetie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
xoxo
Joann
Oh, it must snow there for you, Susan, big fat flakes for sure right before the Yankee folks come to take the photos. You must be so excited……we are! And, Busy with a capital B! And, I betcha a nickle you are giggling with pure pleasure as your creativity touches every nook and cranny of your home. No real snow here on the shore of Lake Ontario, just grapple (which looks like the tiny styrafoam beads from a bean bag).
I especially love the beginning days of each season. It’s so much fun to start anew with colors, food, decorations, projects. One thing I like about that first big snow is that it’s like permission to settle into the coziness of home. It brings a screeching halt to certain things on the to do list….I’m sometimes weary of my garden, sheds and outdoor projects…..if it’s not done now it’ll have to wait until thaw when I’ll be just itching to get out there again. That’s what seasons do, they give you a fresh start every few months.
We lived in San Diego for a year when my husband was on sabbitical and after awhile I couldn’t stand all that sunshine! I wanted a cold day so I could make chili or a potroast. I wanted something to be canceled so we could feel excited. I wanted to wear something heavy and cozy. I missed the sound and smell of rain. I just wanted it to be different from how it had been for days and days. Sunshine didn’t thrill me like it does here in Upstate NY.
Thank you Susan, for giving us some of your precious time and attention. We are spoiled ones who always want more of your ideas, words, paintings, recipes, inspiration and fun!
As always, DonnaRay
So right, Donna Ray! People just need variety and change at times. When we have endless days of hot sunshine I just LONG for an all-day stay-huddled-in-the-house soaking rain! And of course, we here in upstate New York are thrilled to get whatever sunshine we can – because we see so little of it! :>)
Our tree is in and warming.
Our ornaments are drying and covered in glitter.
Things are starting to look a bit like Christmas.
Wild Wyoming is covered in 3 inches of beautiful wet, sticky snow!
Ooooo!
I hope I get Willard. I signed up about a month ago, so hopefully, I’ll find a surprise in my email. It would be so nice if you could give us a link to archives of older versions for us to enjoy. Good luck with getting ready for your Yankee Magazine shoot! I’ve been telling everyone I know about your blog and how wonderful it is – as if you didn’t already have a sufficient number of worshipers:)
It started to snow, wet and sloppy, here in CT this afternoon, but luckily the roads were not yet slippery, and it was so pretty to see the snow in the headlights.
Someday when I get time, I will try to do that Carolyn! It’s a good idea!
Really happy Santa already bought me your 2013 calendar and the small one too. Yay! A happy day!
Good because I think maybe we just ran out!
Hello Susan! Your “Let It Snow” lighthouse drawing is so cute!!!! Oh please, wouldn’t it be nice as an embroidery/and or a cross-stitch kit to make????? The red blanket stitch around the edge is adorable!!! (Our family loves lighthouses and travel to see many in our state of Michigan. ) What a treasure it would be to make a “Susan Branch” design!!!! Something you could plan for the future? Someday? Maybe?
That would be wonderful, I agree, will try!
Great idea!!!
Lovely artwork, Susan! Keep blogging!
Helene
Hi Susan
I just love the way you have painted the blanket stitch around your picture, you pay attention to detail and that is one of the reasons I enjoy looking at your creations they are very special and help to make the world go around for so many people, thank you so much.
P.S. I am not looking forward to any snow at the moment because we have too much water logged ground after many towns and villages in Yorkshire have been flooded yet again.
OK, I will take you off my snow prayer list 🙂
You are so sweet to say that Pam! OH how I would love to be in waterlogged Yorkshire right about NOW ! xoxo
The detail is why I love Susan Branch art too!!!
I love my two-hair paintbrush!
I love math and I love details, but there isn’t a paint brush that could help me!!! LOL I will stick with sewing and my home decor. Playing with dishes and gardening to make a house a home.
It’s all good!
Here, here! So true – NO ONE does borders like Susan. I would consider it a real hallmark of your work, Sue. That and the fact that you are quite possibly the only author around – outside of children’s literature – who hand-letters and illustrates her own books! Now all you have to do is learn bookbinding and you’ll be a One-Woman Show! :>)
The full Hunter’s (Frosty, Beaver) moon this morning is lovely. A bit of fog in the air with it.
Hi Susan!! I sent in a post yesterday afternoon, not certain if it made it to you or is stuck in the firewall at work!?!
Thanks for a sweet post! I can hardly wait for a new Willard, what a treat!
I’ve designed my Christmas card, now I need to get painting myself, watercolors, of course.
Can’t wait to see your tree, know it will be glorious!
Thanks for the dose o’inspiration in your last post! I’m going to be making some garlands myself and found adorable pompoms last week. I made a lovely wreath, if I say so myself over the weekend, almost from all supplies I have a home! It’s all in shades of cream and white with touches of gold! And, I incorporated some items of my Mom’s decorations too. Makes it sentimental since I lost her last fall. I do smile when I see her pieces in it.
Hope you have a hip pity, hoopity, happy Wednesday!
Much love.
XooX,
Jeanette
I probably didn’t get there yet, Jeanette — I was so busy with Willard, I didn’t approve them all, but I’m determined to finish before I go decorate the house today. If you don’t see it, then it went somewhere with the gremlin!
Thanks, Susan! Didn’t want to trouble you – guess I just don’t know/understand how the backend of blogging works – apologies…
I bet you’ve been busy with Willard and everything else.
Happy Painting, Happy Decorating.
Hugs and Love!
I hope it showed up Jeanette! Thank you!
Swish swish goes the brushes… color and wonderful memories fill the pages. We all await the release of what has already been shared from your heart last year!!!
Hoping for SNOW here too! Happy Wednesday!
Georgie xoxo
Yardville, NJ
Happy Wednesday Susan! We had SNOWFLAKES all night on Thanksgiving and early morning Friday, as we walked through the shops in a small town nearby. What is your favorite Christmas song or hymn? I can never decide…just LOVE them all!!! Perhaps someone could help me with this one……..”What is the name of the little girl in most versions of The Nutcracker?” [It’s for a Christmas game…] THANKS, THANKS, AND THANKS GIRLFRIENDS!!!!! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Is it Clara? I could never choose a favorite Christmas song!!! But childhood takes me toward Dean Martin, because that’s what my parents listened to.
I will look it up on line…but I think Clara it may be!!! Thanks!!! I like the old Nat King Cole songs myself!
Ooops! Her name is Marie! Oh well…we learn something every DAY! xoxo
Hi Susan, We are back from Thanksgiving in Gettysburg, PA and on the way home had snow flurries which didn’t amount to anything. Also, on the way back to Fl we woke up in NC to 24 degrees and frosty ice on our windshield with no scraper with us! We never expected that so early in the south. I know how busy I am getting ready for the holidays and you are even more so with Dec. 11th and Yankee Magazine right around the corner. How very exciting for you and Joe. I’m sure you’ll get everything done. I enjoy baking the cookies and all and I know you will too. Enjoy the moment! Luv, Gail Buss, Bev. Hills, Fl XX
Thanks Gail… cold but no snow for us either, just rain last night. It’s OK, we can wait, the waiting is exciting too!
Been so caught up in Thanksgiving and looking for new job (might know something today – final round of interviewing for a position that I would love 🙂 ) that I have not written here lately – but always read… your posts always make my days brighter – I’m even sharing them with guy friends who love the ocean and have never been to MV !
fyi – today is the 70th anniversary of the film “Casablanca” – shown all day for free on the internet – or rent or watch your copy – LOVE this movie!!!!
Have a wonderful day ! mari
Hope you get your job Mari!!
Hi Susan and Everyone!
I just have to say here how much I enjoy reading all the Comments and to realize how much we are all kindred spirits. I have a lot of fun imagining you, Susan, and all the Girlfriends (and Guys) bustling around our homes and hearths doing all the activities that we mention in our posts.
Susan, the enormous positive energy vibes that are generated as a result of your generous gifts to us in this space and time are so tangible. All of us seem to be blooming where we are planted and what a wonderful and loving effect that is having, not only on us, but also on our families and communities, including this one. I feel sure that we are all working in tandem with God, generating and releasing lots of love, which God uses to further the Kingdom. The love that is expressed here must be, collectively, expanded exponentially because the power released is obviously so much more than the sum of its parts. And although not all of our kindred spirits, Susan, post comments, I’m sure that they are part of this groundswell too.
You, darling Susan, are the cause and creator of our community here, and, oh my, what an awesome life of it’s own you enable and encourage. Thank you so much! In fact it must be that not only did we Girlfriends and Guyfriends give thanks last Thursday for each other, but God was giving thanks for all of us too. This is how Goodness and Truth are gained and lived; our physical bodies come into their own as Temples, and our whole being and lives are, indeed, lived in Unceasing Prayer. May He continue to bless us all, His humble servants!
Love to all,
Kathy
I don’t know about you, but I always loved homemaking classes in high school, my teachers were wonderful — it was so much fun with all the girls running around making things and trying things, and laughing through it all — I couldn’t wait to grow up and have my own house, and kitchen and pots and pans … it reminds me of that! Beautifully written Kathy! Thank you!
I took all the Home Ec. classes in high school too. My Mom had an old sewing machine that I used to make my first, and only, “weskit” —“weskit”?? It was a pretty easy first project, but absolutely no one was wearing “weskits” when I went to high school!!! I realized that I had to progress pretty quickly if I expected to make the school halls a more fashionable place. In the summer between junior and senior years, I had my first job—two hours per day, Mon. through Fri. I saved my money so that I could buy my own sewing machine—in its own cabinet, from Sears. When I asked them which sewing chair came with it, I was so disappointed to learn that the chair was not included with the sewing machine. Such disillusionment at such an early age—LOL!!! All I could afford was the machine but I loved it. I made many of my own clothes for high school and college on that machine, skirts with no waistbands because they were easier and scotch tape on the hems because no matter what I did, I could not sew a hem that stayed put. Happy, happy memories!
Not just well-said, Kath… absolutely PERFECTLY-said! :>) xoxo
Thank you, Janet! Have a lovely day! xoxo
Hi Susan ~
It is a beautiful day here in North Dakota with the trees are full of frosted branches with a light dusting of snow. Just had to tell you I made your “Old Fashioned Dressing” for Thanksgiving and it was a HIT! I loved the look of my bread drying out on the ironing board and it made me more thankful for the simple things that you so readily share with your readers. I always look forward to “Willard” ~ and if you have to go and play ~ we can wait an extra day. You are worth it!!!!
Love ya,
Carol
Doll!
Can’t wait for the newsletter. No snow here 🙁 now or never. It has been beautiful here in Florida lately. This Florida gal has never seen snow. Maybe someday……………… I’m glad I got my calendar early!
Have a wonderful day!!
You should see it someday. I wrote about it in the Willard. It’s like a little miracle.
Trapper’s Moon tonite!! 🙂
I love how varied the discussion has been from just a short, lovely posting! What a great community you’ve developed Susan! Makes the day a little better to start it here!
Its YOU and THEM — I knew we were all out there, and so happy to see it was true.
There is snow on the ground here in western Minnesota…I will try to send some your way so you can play :-)…YEA for Willard, your painting and your writing…can’t wait…xoxo…
Another glorious quirk of Mother Nature here in AZ is snow in the desert and it looks so beautiful, yet slightly “off”. The snow softens the harsh shapes and points of the cacti and we are given a visual treat that delights everyone. We came across a desert “snowman” one year, where someone took snowballs and created eyes, nose etc, created a stocking cap and big buttons down the front of a young saguaro cactus and many of us took photos of such careful creativity. Ouch!
Susan, I don’t know how you do it! You are such a busy little bee, and you still have time to give us blessings! Where oh where do you come up with all this sayings! Your list seems endless! Love it! Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, Your cranberry sauce is gone! Will be having more for Christmas, for the first time I am going to do a turkey for Christmas. I usually limit it to Thanksgiving, but I was unable to cook my 19 lber as I was sick. Our daughter-in-love cooked instead, bless her heart! I was so thankful! We usually have lamb, prime or ham for Christmas. But the turkey is going to be great!
The season has started, I have made my fudge! Yum!
Ooh! Can’t wait for the new Willard!
Hugs,
Jeannie
It snowed here yesterday, Susan! I can’t wait to go out to play with my daughter when she gets home from school!!! Our dog has been outside frolicking all day! Thanks for sharing your wonderful energy and creativity!!! Happy painting!
Thank you Sharon, have fun!
Susan, I do not know how you do all that you do! But I am grateful that you know how you do it….and get it all done! Looking forward to some snow play myself! Our son and his family have moved in with us after coming back from years of stateside mission work in West Virginia…I can honestly say that it is a joy to have all 6 of them here while they are looking for a home of their own….Willard and a cup of hot tea will be part of my mini-get-away….I take one every once in a while….so they can have family time, and I can have a wee bit of down time myself….but we come back together and have a great time….enjoy all that you do as you are preparing for Christmas….and your photo shoot!
Cynthia
How nice for you to have them near! Thank you Cynthia!
Know you are busy getting ready for Yankee Magazine (and Christmas, in general). Just popped in to say hello! Burrrrr . . . getting cold in NH!
Here too!
Enjoy the beautiful moon.
How beautiful! I love lighthouses! I had something exciting happen today. I walked into a big old thrift store near my home here in Florida and went straight to the books first. There was no one in that part of the store, so I called my hubby to let him know I was ‘goofing off’ and I SAW IT! ‘The Summer Book’…copyright 1995! My husband didn’t know what I had found, I was so excited! He told me later that he said what he was doing in that conversation but I didn’t remember. I was THAT excited to find one of your books! You really made my day….that and the 50 cents I spent at the thrift store today! Sweet Southern hugs, Diane PS I live in Florida and I AM a Summer girl!
Perfect, Summer for you!
Hi Susan! Thanks for this little post! I put up my first ever “Bird Tree” today and thought of you as I unpacked my little birds. My family teases that I’m a “Bird Nerd” and when I saw your bird tree last year, I was so inspired! Would you post a photo of yours again this year? I loved it! My little collection of birds is growing. THANK YOU for your wonderful blog!
I sure will, I love my bird tree. So does Jack!
I stand a branch in a copper pot to hold my collection of snowmen and my cat, Poetry, just loves it to pieces!
Susan, I imagine that you are having so much fun decorating your beautiful home for the holiday magazine shoot. I can’t wait to see the photos, really looking forward to that. And a new Willard coming too! Where do you find the time?? I haven’t even been into the attic yet to get the decorations down. By the way, wanted to let the girlfriends know that I just purchased one of the special Diamond Jubilee Emma Bridgewater mugs (the red, white and blue one…it is absolutely gorgeous!!) from a blog site..A Beautiful Life. It said they had three of them and I purchased one, so there should be two left! Go get ’em!!
I’m chuckling at you and BFF Sandy’s comments re the kittens and their interest in Christmas trees. Don’t tell her but Fanny and Betti have requested I sew some little felt mice ornaments to send to Sandy’s house in Attleboro for Boo and Bowie’s Christmas presents. Doesn’t that sound appropriate??? No catnip will be included as it sounds like they don’t need it!!! LOL!!! 🙂
Shhhh, won’t say a thing!
* Hello Susan * Happy Thursday!
I just loved your sweet liitle post with Willam Browne’s little poem and your little painted Lighthouse, with snow flurries dancing all around it. Oh! to once again be on the very top of a lighthouse, looking out to the dark and beautiful sea and feeling the snow falling lightly on my face.
It’s a wonderful memory I have, when we lived in Massachusetts and we spent many a winter (and all the seasons too) weekending on Cape Cod. Thanks to you, and your post, Susan, I could imagine myself there again!
Speaking of imagining…it must be such a joy for you as you write and paint and create your English Diary. You, working on a page, for example, a day in England, what adventures you and Joe had, what you saw, the beauty of it all, can be imagined once again, as you write and paint that page and all the other pages to follow.
Can’t wait ’til I have my own copy of your lovely new book!
Happy Thursday!
* Dorothy Ann on Cougar Mountain, Washington *
It is so wonderful, I feel like I’m still there every day, and when Joe and I walk, we talk about the place like we’re still there. I never had a vacation last so long!
Good Morning Susan & Girlfriends,
There was such a lovely full moon last night. There was a star,planet, right next to the moon. The position of the star(planet was about 10 oclock) it was so pretty. I can’t remember when I saw a star right next to a full moon, can you ?
Hope you got some pictures of this Susan. I have learned you watch for the full moons also. Hubby & I have a tradition when it is a full moon. If it isn’t to cold, wind blowing, we go out side and give each other a hug & a kiss. 🙂 Starlight, Starbright, first star I see tonight, I wish I may, I wish I might, have the wish I wish tonight. *God Bless our Service Men & Women*
It was so beautiful! At the end of our street!
Sooo glad you got to see this.*
I just put a picture up!
Happy Birthday Louisa May Alcott!
“The power of finding beauty in the humblest things makes home happy and life lovely.”
― Louisa May Alcott
Good morning, Susan
No snow yet in Toronto but lots of Christmas activities here. I went with friends to Colbourne Lodge in High Park, an historic house. It was beautifully decorated as if for a Victorian Christmas. The tree with real candles, cornucopias filled with sweets and all the wonderful toys was charming. We were served hot mulled cider and homemade short bread – delicious. I wanted to move in, lol. I was wondering if you and Joe and the kitties hang up stockings on Christmas eve? The first year we were married, I knit us each a striped stocking. Still hanging them up 36 years later. Have a good day. I’m off to make more of your cranberry sauce. It went fast!
Of course we do! 🙂
Hi Susan,
I am a LONG time fan – Ihave all of your books and your Country Living prints hang in my kitchen. I just love this site! This print is absolutely gorgeous…..any chance you will be selling copies?
Very Merry Christmas!
We should do that! Thank you Mary!
LOVE these banners! i’ve printed the page, with instructions (just in case i could possibly forget! haa)…and want to do lots of them all around my little townhouse! Just bought an old, painted, HUGE china cabinet/hutch for my dining room and it would be perfectly adorable to hang banners on this! by the way….this wonderful cabinet was only $25!!! 6’long and 6’tall! curved top! it is now ready for displays for EVERY season! and can finally display some of my momma’s treasures!
You are so lucky! To find that! It sounds wonderful!
Susan, love the kitchen banner and I’m going upstairs right now to start my kitchen banner. Thanks for sharing, Lesley in Folsom, CA
Let it Snow Let it Snow Let It Snow….Hugzzz & Love & Snow~Angels Sweetest Elf~Sue! xoxo Poof! Elf~Angie(Tink!) 🙂 ¸.♥*¨`*¨♥*¨`¨*.¸¸.♥”
Susan, I’m so glad you are sending out a new Willard. I signed up again, after the last one was out, and again, I didn’t receive it. I signed up last year, and afterwards received one, but that was it!!!! I feel bereft. I did order four of your wall calendars and have received them in a timely manner. They are “special Little Somethings” for my three daughters and I. I have already put some appointments on for January. I love it! Millie R
I would say that almost 100% of the people who say they don’t get their Willard after signing up, discover them waiting in their spam folders … filtered by their computers. Check that first; I sent your comment to Kellee, she will make really sure you are on the list. Hope you get it! Glad you like the calendars!