I’ve been decorating for a whimsical Christmas — lots of inspiration for it! Starting with MUSICA . . .
IT’S A KITTY CAT CHRISTMAS . . .
I thought you might like a “Life of Jack” update — and I know everyone thinks their cat is the smartest in the world, but this is actually the smartest kitty in the world.♥ He just is. You know how cats rub against your legs? Now every time Jacks walks by me, he doesn’t just rub against my leg, he JUMPS up, his front paws leave the ground, so he can rub against me. He jumps up, then curls around me and comes back and jumps up from the other side. Do I love it? Yes! Then he stretches out on the floor in front of me, full length, so I can rub his belly.
He’s also not as interested in ball-retrieval these days, now he likes rubber band retrieval . . . the thick elastic kind you use on a pony tail. I shoot them, and he leaps into the air and catches them, or chases them, and brings them back to me. I tell you he is brilliant! I will be reading a book, feel something come up into my lap, look down, there’s a rubber band. He’s little too. Not growing very big, so far, for a 16-month old. He’s a little, smart cat.
He adores the fire. Curls up in front of it, stares at it, rolls around next to it, naps as close to it as possible . . . to the point where I have to stay there with him, he loves it so much that I’m not too sure yet that he is aware that it is HOT in there.
But, just so you know, Joe and I do leave the house sometimes … we’ve been getting the house ready for Yankee Magazine who, if you read Willard or have been hanging out on this blog, you know, is coming to take photographs of our house! Here we are at one of our garden centers called Eden. They always do the cutest things at their entry way! Nice “roping,” don’t you think?
And we found our tree! At Vineyard Garden Center. Thar she blows. Now to get her home!
I started my paper whites — I save the rocks from year to year; I also found a bag full of moss when we were shopping off-island … thought it would be pretty to mix in a little bit of green.
Speaking of green, for a while there we could not see a speck of it outside, our lawn was wall-to-wall leaves . . . But Joe made compost out of them . . . and while he was out there raking, he, got an idea, inspired by the roping at Eden. . .
And made this with the bushes in our yard! Isn’t that great? I was very impressed! Who knew that, #1, we had the stuff to make this — even though I should know, I see it every day …. or, #2, Joe would be able to do it! (Although I should know, he can do anything!)
While he was doing that in the yard, I was baking cookies — and, by the way, this recipe is SO Delicious, I’ll put in the next post (this one is already too long!) . . . It’s a chocolate chip cookie different from any other — Joe loved them and so did I! Good Housekeeping is what we were doing . . . here on Christmas Island.
And then Joe, even more inspired now … came in and surprised me with this! We usually buy wreaths and put our own bows on them . . . but he got the urge to try making one; went out there and cut more Chinese and English Boxwood, Holly, Ivy and Pine — and look how cute it turned out, all fresh and perky! I hope he realizes what he has gotten himself into. One is seriously not enough.
My job was to add the toys, the bow, bird, and pears!
So he went back out and brought in a whole box of greens for me to play with! I love whimsy; a little decorating-sense-of-humor is a good thing at the holidays, but I also love tradition. When you google Decorating Whimsical Christmas, there are lots of white trees, bright pink, turquoise, and silver ornaments. I love looking at the pictures of this . . .
. . . because they are full of creativity and joy … BUT I’ve never quite gotten over the old-fashioned traditional things, and need to have them! When I think of Christmas, I remember how I saw it as a child when I was at my most personally whimsical (believing with all my heart in the magic) . . . sparkle, and lights, candles, color, stories, singing, cookies … pure magic! That’s still what I love. I want whimsy, but now I’m grown up, I know about tradition, and I need my old things too. ♥
Like wreaths and roping made from traditional greens that are green, my little trees in the window sills, or my bird tree on the table . . . I had fun playing with the leaves and branches over the windows — I just poked everything under the curtain rod!
And talk about whimsy, these were the “men” sitting in the “yard” of a gingerbread house on display in a coffee shop downtown! Aren’t they adorable? I think it’s marzipan … my favorite part is the tiny chocolate shots stuck in the top of the heads! With whimsy, the sky is the limit!
But this probably as traditionally whimsical as I get . . . my bird tree. I’ve had it for years and years, and guess what? It’s been up for a week, and Jack hasn’t touched it yet! It’s on the kitchen table, just over his food bowl, and he just isn’t interested. Knock on wood.
Rachel, my English girlfriend, gave me this tiny precious cup; I brought home leaves from our walk, another little bird and voila! Nature whimsy!
Plus of course my little old house that I found at an island flea market, it goes on top of the stove, like every year …
I’ve also been setting out my old quilts, which Girl loves . . .
I took this picture last year . . . it’s the ornament I got the year I move to the island. Now that’s a tradition!
And of course I have to do my shelf-scape of Beatrix Potter People; they needed a few trees and pears. ♥
And there’s not too much more traditional than Christmas apples and old books . . .
Yesterday Joe and I carried the tree down the driveway and around to the front door, which is the best way to bring in a tree at our house, through the front hall, causing the least amount of damage, both to us, and to the house, and there she is! She smells wonderful!!! When we get her trimmed and ready for prime time, I’ll be sure to show you!
I am not done decorating by any stretch of the imagination, I have the fireplace to do, the Peter Rabbit room, and lots of other spots. Which is where I’m going now. But first off, I remember how much you liked the picture of the beautiful cardinal on the feeder outside my kitchen window, and was thinking, what would the girlfriends like for a Holiday Giveaway . . . ??? Something whimsical would be just right, I think!
And I thought, maybe this little notebook, of the boy bird feeding the girl bird, the way it should be in real life at all times! And then, of course, because I love mine so much, you really must have one of these darling new mugs we just got in. They are just like the bird cup . . . four pieces, the cup, the lid, a mesh basket inside for loose tea, and a saucer for your cookie! So cute …
So yours. ♥ And the little pad opens up, is perfect purse-size for little winter notes . . .
And one more thing. Joe says he will make you
One of these! And I will decorate it! And we will send it along with the mug and the cardinal notepad, so we can wish you a Merry Everything girlfriends, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Winter Soltice, or as Jerry Seinfeld called it, “Festivus!”
To be entered in the drawing, just leave me a little message in the comment section (if this blog is being emailed to you, you have to click here, www.162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/; scroll to the bottom of this post, click on the tiny word “comments”); in a few days, our Winning Name will be pulled by the wonderful and beautiful Vanna . . . and I will announce it here. Joe will make that wreath at the last moment so it will be fresh! ♥
We say Bye for now! We would jump up and rub your legs if you were here! ♥ xoxo
I love cutting fresh greens for decoration. I have never ventured into wreath making, only swags. Joe’s wreath is fabulous. Just the right combination of greens and well decorated. It would look wonderful in our old farmhouse. Good luck with the photo shoot and have a blessed Christmas.
Ahhh more inspiration! Thank you thank you! My 3 year old and I were looking at Willard today and she looked at me and said “mommy I love Christmastime”….my heart- inspiration and memories are brewing. Yay!
How darling!
This particular blog entry triggered 2 memories for me, one of a cat and the other of Yankee magazine. After adopting my first 2 children I spent a lot of time at the library with the kids and discovered Yankee magazine. I used to subscribe to it just for the New England feel of it – the stories of winters in New England, the great recipes, and other home spun content. I will surely, at least, pick up the issue that features you and am considering another subscription. But years before I was married and adopting my children, I lived in a small house with some friends kind of in the country. One cold January evening – cold being about 10 degrees – we ran to a local convenient mart. As I hurried past a phone booth I noticed it was covered in white muck (it was ice cream). In that phone booth, also covered with white muck (ice cream) was a young cat/kitten, probably about 9 months old meowing, shivering and afraid. I scooped him up (ice cream, you know) and took him home. He got a warm bath for which I had to arm myself in gloves and a heavy jacket to thwart self defense of the cat kind. I gave him some food and a warm bed. The next day was bright and sunny although still quite cold. None the less, I thought he may not want to stay after all I put him through with that bath so I opened the door and offered him his country freedom. He sat there, looked at me, meowed and turned back into the house. He was with me for years and was so lovable. He was a hugger. He would jump up on me and wrap his paws around my neck and hug me! I called him “BB” because he responded to “baby” but I thought “well, he’s growing; not a baby forever”. So that’s my story of one of my few kitties. I’m allergic to cats and now I have Coco, my doggie. I’m in for the contest. By the way, I have had some trouble getting into the Christmas spirit this year and your blog is really helping. thanks 🙂 p.s. Wow! Joe! Nice decorating work!
I loved your kitty story Christine! Poor little thing.
Susan, your house looks fabulously festive already! Love the window area with the tree and the greens in the curtain rod! But Joe’s wreaths are my favorite – so many different greens to look at! I am wondering what he used for a base…and hoping I might win so I can find out! Thanks for a great give-away!
MERRY CHRISTMAS Susan and Joe too and of coarse the smartest cat in the world Jack and dear Girl Kitty. It’s really beginning to look like Christmas at your house and mine. Its sooooo much fun to see what you and Joe are doing. Im going to make a Merry Christmas garland using bay leaves, writing M C with a gold pen, will attach to red ribbon using the little clothes pegs I use for the fall leaves. So that’s my whimsy from another island and another home with 2 wood burning fire places, aren’t they the best? Weve had one photo shoot for our Christmas home from Japan. Lots of work but FUN. All the best, from Ruth and God Bless
What a great posting. Thanks for the wonderful give-away. Enjoy the rest of your decorating.
I was going to ask you to request garland & wreath construction info. from Joe! I can’t even imagine how wonderful it would be to receive a handmade wreath. You both are incredibly generous!
Susan…have loved your designs for years now and now we have Joe doing them also!! beautiful, natural designs for the wreaths and roping. Love the kitten..I too have one (Fineas) who is such a love….Merry Christmas to you and Joe and hope to be the one to receive the notice xoxo M.E. Dugosh
Thank u Susan for making my day~every time I see something from u, I just have to stop what I’m doing so I can relax and enjoy your wonderful posts 🙂 They are always so sweet. U r SO talented and after seeing this, I see how Joe is too. No wonder u love him so much! I have a “Joe” in my life too! My husband of 48 years, Lee. We met in grade school and he makes my life wonderful.
Have a VERY Merry Christmas and great holiday season.
Penny xo
Oh my goodness l022 comments so far! Everyone wants to have your special treat!
I will just be happy for the lucky person! Love everything you showed us! It all
makes my heart go pitty pat! I need a bird tree! :=)
Hi Susan: your blog just warms my heart. Somedays I read it more than once.
Wishing you and your family the most joyous Christmas, and a Happy and Healthy New Year!, Thanks for a chance to win the beautiful gifts.
Your fur babies are so gorgeous! Love your decorating and what a sweetie you have making you those fresh green wreaths and ropes!
I love the wreaths Joe and you created.. I always enjoy this blog.
Even though I live in Kentucky I think I am going to need to order a subscription to Yankee! I can’t wait to see all your lovely decorations and what a great eye for design Joe has! 🙂 I also wanted to tell you that in a strange way your blog feels like home to me….I grew up in the north (I’m a Yankee at heart) and when I read your blog I feel like I’m sitting my grandmothers kitchen in her french style cottage…btw, my grandmother is a very elegant lady and not at all the “granny” type. 😉
Your Christmas preparations are delightful. Your giveaway is astonishing. You are an inspiration always.
your blog is so much fun to read! merry christmas to you and yours. 🙂
Thank you again dear Susan for the inspiration – whimsey, mmmmmmm. I think I might be able to do that! And that Jack, what a cute guy. My Zoe would love to lay down in front of your fireplace. Love the bird in the cup too! Maybe I might just win this one! The cup is adorable and the notepad, but to win the wreath would just make my Christmas, heck, it would make my year!! Can’t wait to see what else you will be doing to make your house more MERRY!
Hello and Merry Christmas! I love your pictures and find myself relaxing and enjoying your writing. Thank-you for this time. Doris
yep, that Joe, he’s a keeper!
Hi Susan~
The house is looking lovely and inspirational. I love all the little things you are doing. One of these days, I hope to see a Cardinal and not in a picture. They are so beautiful. LOVE the birds. I hope all turns out well for your picture day. Can’t wait to see all that you do. Your blog and website are one of my favorites. Thank you for sharing.
Merry Christmas!
Oooooh! Vanna…darling Vanna..please pick me!! What a truly lovely give-away. We are so very spoiled. Not only do you write these wonderful, inspirational blog posts for us, and send us charming photos of Girl and Jack to make us smile, but you are willing to share the things that make you happy, to make us happy. By the way…I even ventured to make a little banner that you shared last time. I did it! It’s cute! I’m so pleased with myself! ;0) Those are the “gifts” that are best of all…and you send them our way with every post.
You have long been my favorite artist/author and I have so enjoyed your cookbooks (like a little bit of my childhood in each one) and illustrations over the years. Thank you for bringing a wonderful sense of peace and balance in this very hectic world.
I’ve got my ‘touch’ of Christmas done and it gives me pleasure to sit and read or knit in the glow of the tree lights. I had a Christmas Tea brunch today and it was such fun to prepare the table and the food – my first cheese soufflés! Yes, I baked 2 as I had 7 guests and one would not have been enough. We enjoyed delicious Christmas tea. I know you are having fun preparing your home for the photo shoot. I look forward to your posts updating us on your progress. Thanks for offering the giveaways. Tell Joe he is too generous! His wreath will delight some lucky winner’s home.
You have inspired me yet again 🙂 thank you!
Susan-
I was feeling kinda lost as I have been unable to find the time to get my Christmas preparations kicked of in earnest and then read your lovely post this evening and became so excited about my free time for the rest of the week . I loved everythnig you wrote about from Jack to you and Joe selecting your tree to the marvelous wreath that Joe made–how absolutely lovely-how stunning! I cannot wait to get started and feel so extremely happy an energized after reading your blog (but I always do!).
Makes me happy to hear that Minette, thank you!
Your posts just make me happy, Susan! I love your whimsical Christmas home! And Jack …he keeps me laughing!
You have once again inspired me to get moving! I started to decorate, ran out of steam and now like I said once again am inspired. Thank-you and to Joe-I love both of your work(s)! Merry Christmas!!!
Everything looks beautiful and magical and Christmasy!!! I’m behind on decorating but have started to put up some Christmas things. The temperatures should drop today making it feel more like Christmas. Hope you and yours have a wonderful, magical holiday!
Ohhh, the fresh greens have such charm. I need to find some for sure.
Happy Holidays!
What a delight you and your blog is And your house and your cats! I guess everything about you is delightful!! Thank you!
Oh boy. Can’t wait to see your house when it’s all ready for the folks from “Yankee” – it will brim with Sue style – warm, colorful, cute, whimsical, traditional, comfortable, natural, nostalgic. Sensory overload – pretty sights and scenes, wonderful things to smell/touch/hear, nummy treats to eat. And I’m willing to bet you have a few surprises up your creative sleeve too. And who knew? Now Joe is handcrafting wreaths! They don’t look like the work of a novice, that’s for sure. Really well-done.
Christmas is coming to my house a little at a time. I do a lot of faux greenery, berries, fruit, velvet bows in emerald green and burgundy, silver and gold and copper jingle bells [I loved mixed metals], candles, nuts in their shells. Lots of things that can really be used even after the holidays. Wintry things. I like things on the rustic side I guess. After New Year’s my little nephew comes over and we scatter the leftover nuts around in the yard and neighborhood “for the aminals…” as he says. Years ago I asked my woodworker brother to cut me some square wood blocks [the size toddlers play with] and I painted single letters and small little designs on them to spell out “Merry Christmas” which I put on my hutch shelf above my sideboard. Since then I’ve made many more block “messages” –for other seasons and holidays. Just put away “Tis a Gift to Be Simple…” and I had “I Do Believe in Spooks” for October this year. This year I just might have to gather up the fixings for a little bird tree of my own cuz I love yours. The sweetest thing. You just arrange the birds in the tree each year? They aren’t hot-glued in place or anything permanent, right? Such an easy, cute, festive & original idea! I don’t know anyone else with a little bird tree at Christmas.
“Kitten on the Hearth.” How interesting that Jack is now fascinated with the fireplace. I wonder if he was so busy [and little] last year that he’s only just noticing the fire now? How nice it must be to sit on a warm soft couch with a warm soft kitty… I love the photo of him on the hearth right next to the screen. Kind of amazing that he doesn’t feel too hot there! =^..^=
Oh wow! Over a 1000 comments already! In one day? That must be a new record. And I have to read every one or I just know I’ll miss something incredible! Better put the kettle on and get comfy! Have fun decorating Sue – and good luck to All the Girlfriends! :>)
I love your block idea. Cute sayings too:) I’m sure your house at Christmastime is lovely with your colors and metals.
Can’t wait to see your tree when it is trimmed – I won’t be able to put up a tree this year, so, I will live vicariously through yours (if that’s OK!). I love all the traditional decorations, too. Joe may have the makings of a second career in floral design!
So happy to have you here Karen! Our tree is big enough for the both of us!
Merry Christmas Sue & Joe ! I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and holiday season. I so enjoy seeing the pictures of your beautiful home – especially now dressed for the season. Thank you for all of your whimsy!
Thank you so much for sharing all that you do! You bring your home to our hearts! Just loving your decor, but especially the efforts of you both. May the miracle of nature bring us closer to our God!
Your home is so inviting. I love traditional Christmas decorating, too. You have combined it all perfectly. Love it and can’t wait to see the rest!!! i remember your tree from last year….it was beautiful. This one is just as beautiful!
I really do enjoy reading about your home and your family Susan! I’m having fun decorating my home for Christmas and baking for my family of boys. You have wonderful ideas & delicious recipes!
First you charm us with photos of Adorable Jack and girl kitty, then with your (and Joe’s) beautiful decorating, and THEN, you enticed us with a wonderful gift drawing!! OH MY!! Need I mention I LOVE Polka Dots and Absolutely Love that polka-dot teacup!! I was almost drooling!! LOL!! I would drink all my favorite loose tea blends in it every day! And to think Joe would even include one of his homemade wreaths! Wow! What a Sweetie!! Well, I’m crossing my fingers now, for your drawing!! Oh Man!! How I’d Love to win….
Love seeing how your decorating your house for the photo shoot! I’m decorating my home this week, too. Even made my own version of a banner for my kitchen window. (Mine says “Joyeux Noel”) Thanks so much for sharing. Can’t wait to get your Willard in my in-box!!
Blessings!
A new Christmas mug for tea or chocolate hot plus a little peppermint, a pad for notes about Susan decorating or living ideas, and a wreath by Joe and his wife, what happy additions to the season of joy. Would that they were mine.
Love, love, love your bird themed tree! You inspired me to work on my Christmas decorating today! Thank you, Susan…
Such lovely pictures. Your little Jack is so sweet & very well behaved if he hasn’t attacked your birdie tree! So much prep for your magazine article. Too bad we have to wait a year to see it. But, I’m loving the sneak peeks! Your Joe is fabulous to make such beautiful wreaths & to think you will give one away – thanks so much – I’m keeping my fingers crossed. XOX P.S. I just read Willard & how I love the cookie ornament each year – thanks!
i spent all day sunday making garlands and ornaments for my tree. it was so fun.
i enjoyed this post, hope i win 🙂
Just when I think you cant possibly come up with another wonderful giveaway…you do! A handmade wreath by Joe is just the best! I LOVE the pictures of Jack and Girl Kitty….they brighten my day.
Merry Christmas to you all!
I loved everything you posted today, and your beautiful home is such an inspiration to all of us….Makes me just want to move right in!! And tell Joe that his wreaths are very beautiful! And you gave it such wonderful finishing touches to make it ‘Susan Special!’ =) The photographers at Yankee Magazine are going to be blown away as soon as they come in your front door! Reading this Blog, and the Willard today definitely made my day! Thank you for always bringing such wonderful JOY to all of us Girlfriends!! Love you Sue!! xoxo
Love you back Bon Bon! xo
Dear Susan,
Wow! Not only are you one of the most CREATIVE and TALENTED artist of all time, We get to see how CREATIVE & TALENTED your wonderful husband is! The decorating is so beautiful and makes me want to get going on mine! What a wonderful gift some very lucky Girlfriend will win.
Love the pictures of the kitties! In my neighborhood we have three stray cats that hang around. They love to come and sit on my front porch (sometimes I “sneak” them warm cat milk & food) 🙂 I have a big 13 year old Golden (my gentle giant) that we rescued when he was 5. Yesterday I let him out into our fenced in back yard. I always leave the inside door open so I can see when he is waiting at the storm door to come in. I look out and there he is looking in the door with three cats standing next to him looking in as well! Who ever said cats & dogs don’t get along! I would move them in if my hubby wasn’t allergic!
You’re doing pretty good at having them near!
How lovely your home is looking getting all dolled up for Christmas! I love the traditional decor also. As a matter of fact my hubby and I are now in Colonial Williamsburg viewing my favorite way of decorating for the holidays. Joe could get a job here helping the crew for sure. His roping and wreaths are lovely. Jack and Girl Kitty look ready for a wonderful Christmas. xoxo ♥
You and Joe make quite a team. Love all your decorations. Would love to win the darling tea cup. Merry Christmas to you both.
Dear Sue,
Your decorating is inspiring! Wishing you a blessed Christmas!
xo Tracy
One could almost celebrate Christmas vicariously by reading your blog – just like we vacationed vicariously last summer! I was inspired to make the “Merry Christmas” banner and I can hardly wait for the chocolate chip cookie recipe. Blessings on you and Joe. Thanks for sharing your home with us.
Hi Susan, I love everything you have shown today. Envious of having a yard with so many wonderful branches of goodies to make wreaths and swags!! Jack is so adorable, his little moustache still looks so fab! Girl Kitty is very sweet. Your Christmas traditions are very similar to mine…I don’t think there is anything wrong with keeping the traditions. I am unable to have pinks, oranges, or black in the house at Christmas. Your giveaway is amazing, so I am throwing my name in with all these hundreds and hundreds of people!! Take care!!
Glad to have you here Robin!
Thank you for inspiring me into the Christmas whimsy decorating mode by reporting on your merry and bright decorating as it unfolds. So fun to see all the ideas in pictures.
Well, that was fun! You have so many sweet things in your home. I think I might have to make the adorable bird tree. Cant’t wait to see the Christmas tree unveiling. Thanks for treating us to the glimpses of your holiday preps. Merry Christmas!
PS I love the puppy peering into the fireplace. He’s a scene stealer!
Merry Christmas Susan! Your home always looks so cozy and seems so much more so with all your Christmas decorations in place. I hope you, Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack have the merriest Christmas ever (and that Jack stays out of your bird tree!).
Well, now you’ve gone and done it, Susan. Put me in the Christmas spirit (finally!!). Now I shall spend all day tomorrow decorating the house!! Except for the wreath, of course. I’ll hold out in hopes of one from you and Joe! Thank you for letting us be a part of your world!!
I am so inspired by you and your fun ideas. I love how your sweet Joe takes such wonderful care of you. I have one of those in my life also. I hope all your dreams come true during this Christmas season. Thank you for sharing so much sweetness.
My tea is still steeping. If I don’t get in hand before I start your blog, it generally gets cold before I think about it again! Thanks for helping us all get into the Christmas Spirit with your decorating! Thanks for the pleasure….now to get that tea!
What a twinkle in my eyes when I saw the whimsical garland in your window! Festive!! Looking in my inbox & receiving your newsletter is the best evening treat. Sort of like an after dinner mint 🙂 The fireplace & Jack are a cozy pair 🙂
Joe’s green thumb has taken on a whole new meaning after assembling the spectacular wreath-impressive! I sure would enjoy one one my red front door Vanna!
Thanks for sharing with us Susan. You mean so much to so many! We love you!
Makes me smile to read your blog…I love “Homemaking”…Rebecca
This was the BEST post ever!! And you are the BEST, Susan!! And Jack? He is so adorable–I’m in love with your kitty. And Girl is beautiful! Thank you for Willard and this post today. Merry Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties.
Hugs from Barbara S. in Cumming, GA
What a lovely post. Now I’m longing to start decorating my house, but need to do some chores first. Please may I be included in the draw, though I guess Joe’s gorgeous wreath would suffer too much in the transit to England.
We would make it work if we pull your name Gill!
Oh, what a wonderful Christmas surprise to find in your mailbox! I would love to win …. and that wreath would go on my front door. Very cool, Susan. 🙂
I love the Merry Christmas banner as well as the roping and the wreath! Thanks for taking time to share your traditions with us. Please enter me in the drawing for the goodies.
I love your cozy happy Christmas home. Such fun treats to win and love the handmade wreath. You both are so talented!
Your Joe is really a treasure, and your tree and all of your decorations are wonderful. Now I am inspired to get mine out and start the fun!
Dear Susan,
I have subscribed to Yankee Magazine so I don’t miss your special….and have been successful at collecting some of your books….have cranberries in the freezer…not enough sauce leftover from Thanksgiving for the combining with orange marmalade….so will have to make more 🙂 and would love to knock on your door and volunteer for duty helping you decorate….I would not be in the way at all!!! Would be there only to help………thank you for all you do….you are a soft glowing light in my life…..Merry Christmas! from Florida where the days are still in the 80’s!?! Warm Holiday Wishes, Bonnie
I hope you’ll be able to get Jack interested in something else that will make him forget the rubber bands. They can cause serious internal trouble, even death, if injested.
These aren’t the skinny kind, they are very thick ponytail bands … he can’t swallow them. I’m careful about rubber bands, you are so right, Girl would like them for dinner every night!
I loved the Willard…and your most recent blog. We have settled in Florida for the Winter, and I did not bring any Christmas/Hanukkah decorations. I didn’t think that I would miss them after so many years of decorating…but I do. Your blog and Willard, made me smile (it is definitely like California, for sure!!).
There is a magic in the season, and you captured it. Thank you! Your words made it come alive for me. I love the mug…and the wreath is precious and made with love (that’s the magic, don’t you think?)…and the only place that I have ever seen live cardinals is in Maui…really!!
Merry Holidays!
You’re the second person to say that … I thought Cardinals must need cold temps … we never had them in southern CA! But they would be beautiful in Hawaii! Yes, it’s the love that makes the magic! xoxo
You just make my day so much brighter and happy as I read your blog!
Thank you for just being YOU!
Such beautiful greenery, it really dresses up a home. I like to get to nice poinsettias and place on on each side of my front door. It’s wonderful to have the combination of new and old things to decorate for the holidays. I look forward every Christmas to getting out decorations that were once upon a time my Mothers. They bring so many memories of my childhood and Christmases past. Simple glass ornaments, ceramic greenware houses my mom painted bring Christmas alive as I create a wonderful village on top my my piano (an ancient piano my parents bought for me when I was 5, it was old then and even older now!) Hanging the old ornaments on the tree with simple ornaments my children made when growing and lovely newer ornaments brings Christmas alive. I have a simple nativity bought when first married and money was short, that I place before our fireplace to remind us of the reason we celebrate Christmas. Susan, I wish you and Joe a wonderful Christmas holiday season filled with family and friends!
I enjoy the beauty of a well designed tree, but magical childhood memories still rule in my heart and thus my tree will always be a reminder of those precious days from long ago. Reading your blog always evokes that same warmth and excitement of decorating a tree. A package from you would melt my heart! Like you, I will have my furry friends to cuddle with around the fire. But sadly, this will be the first Christmas since my son was born twenty-five years ago, that we will not be together. A cup of warm tea in a mug from you and a handmade wreath from Joe just might ease the pain…..and a JOLLY laugh was had by all. May all the Blessings of the season bring you and Joe great joy!
I love your style -a great mix of tradition and whimsey 🙂 Some of my favorites are from my childhood, especially some of my grandparents old ornaments. Joe did a fabulous job on your wreaths and swags -so pretty. It means more when it is made from your own “stuff” – you have the sweetest touch when decorating! Please show us the rest of your house when you are done 🙂
Love the pictures of Jack! He is so much fun. My husband always looks over my shoulder to see what Jack is doing. Jack is so much like our Bentley! We thought there could never be another but Jack proved otherwise.
Hello Susan, I love the decorations. You and Joe are making things merry and bright, as usual. Would love to have a Sue and Joe original, so I hope that Vanna picks me. I am so looking forward to the Yankee magazine article. It comes out next year, right? Good thing we have your blog pictures for this year to hold us over.
BTW, I read The Distant Hour and I loved it. Thank you for mentioning it. I did curl up with a cup of tea on a grey day to read it. Perfect!
Have you ever listened to Eva Cassidy? She is a treat for the heart. Merry Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties. With love, Joyce
Hi Susan! Happy holidays and thank you for all the holiday cheer:-) My husband and I as well as our 6 # yorkie, Daisy; will be celebrating in our first home this year! I certainly will be using some of your fun decorating ideas. ♡~ The Railtons
I would love to come spend a day in your New England ‘Christmasy’ home, but the next best thing would be to have the beautiful treasures that you are sending to some blessed person. Joe is amazing! And you make what he wonderfully crafted even better. So I will imagine myself curled up next to the fire listening to musica with Jack. Truly Susan, I have been a follower of yours for many years — have my Christmas cookbook on the rack. It all started because of scrapbooking many years ago when I discovered your stickers and then later I found “Vineyard Seasons” at the Apple Farm in San Luis Obispo. My family loves the “Lemon Chicken” recipe and it has been passed on to many friends and other family members. Thank you!!!
Nice to hear from you Kathy!
LUV URL HOLIDAY LOOK, ROCK ON!!
Hi Susan, this is a gorgeous post as always. Please include me in the draw for the little cup set…..I love polka dots and recently have been enjoying adding a few touches of red to my kitchen. We usually put up our tree and decorations on the first of December but this year we had our wonderful youngest son’s wedding on that day and extra visitors staying in the house including some of our grandchildren (a 4 year old, 11 month old twins and a 10 month old ) so I’m sure you can see why Christmas decorating took a back seat until a couple of days ago.
I’m eagerly anticipating the final viewing of your beautiful home in all it’s Christmas glory.
Continue to have fun with your whimsy…….I even love the sound of the word don’t you?
My Smokey stretches out in the floor like that to greet us when we come home….I loved reading this post….and of course would love to win. Can’t wait for the recipe.
Mama Bear
WOULD LOVE TO WIN LOVE YOUR WORK
THANKS FOR UPDATE ON JACK WHAT FUN
ENJOY THE SEASON
THANK JOE FOR HIS GIFT
I love coming to your website, you are so uplifting and inspiring! The first I came across you was a couple years ago when I found your calendar in a store, I fell in love! So whimsical!! I just found your Christmas from the Heart of the Home for $.22 in a vintage shop. It’s well used and has wonderful notes from the previous owner about the recipes they loved the most! I love finding wonderful treasures such as this.
Hope you, Joe & the furkids have a blessed & wonderful holiday season!
I just discovered your blog a few weeks ago and already it has inspired and cheered me. I spent time this past weekend stringing pom pons on baker’s thread and adding them to a small table top spruce tree I purchased this weekend. And like you I am using some of my favorite bird ornaments to trim it. It is set in a old minnow bucket that is insulated with foam. I love the wreaths and greens that Joe gathered for you, and as I read what was listed there, I thought where in my yard can I plant some of those things next summer 🙂 I have been debating about purchasing the bird tea cup for myself and thought I better wait until after the holidays and now you have this new one. Such a temptation, I look forward to more of your posts.
Nice to meet you Sue!
Oh, I loved the pictures and words today! Everything is just beautiful, and Jack is so handsome! It just stirs the nostalgic side of me to see your home and decorations. The wreaths and swags are magnificent also…Just the thought of having greens from the Vineyard in my own home thrills me =)) Good luck everyone and God bless…
It was so good to see Jack again cozying up to the fire. Your decorations are so pretty – love, love the bird tree. I have my collected birds along the mantle nestled in the greenery. All my cats live to be 16 or 17 so I am cat-free at the moment but Jack makes me want another one in the future. Just saw “Anna Karenina” at the movies today (a different production but good) and saw a
wonderful preview of a movie coming up “Hyde Park on the Hudson” about
FDR and a visit to America by the King of England – looks really good. (Bill Murray is FDR). Happy decorating!
Wow, didn’t know Yankee magazine was still being published. I was a subscriber eons ago! Good to know. I just may have to subscribe again so that I can see your wonderful Christmas house in their pages next year.
You certainly have gotten me in the mood to decorate and I began today. My habit is to decorate right up to the big day and I don’t stop ’til New Years when it’s time to take it all down and put it away for another year.
I’m going to try my luck (along with thousands of others) once again on that fabulous give away. Joe’s wreath made me do it. Would you really ship it to California if Vanna picks my name???
Oh definitely. We would ship to New Zealand or Russia! We are the world! xoxo
The greenery above the windows is so wonderful and festive! I love that and wish I had windows like that to “spruce” up! My favorite decorating medium of this season is greenery. I love it plain or adding some colorful berries or bows or whatever comes to mind. And we have lots and lots of cardinals in Texas. We have many feeders out with seeds for them and they entertain us all year long. Love that bright red color. Your gifting is truly special. Each item is a treasure!
Hi, Susan!
I love seeing photos of your cats. Jack looks just like our Dory.
I am so excited that you are blessing someone with your beautiful mug. I noticed it in a photo in an earlier blog post, and I thought it was so pretty.
I purchased the materials today to make a banner.
Happy decorating!
Terry
Merry Christmas! Once again you have taken me back in time to the simpler things. I love what you did in front of the window. The hanging apples,beads (?) and “Merry Christmas” banner. The cardinal is my state bird and the picture of the one outside your window is so pretty. I think Joe has found his “calling” with the greenery! Thank you for the lovely giveaway. Please enter my name. I would love to win! Happy Holidays everyone <3
OH, that little Jack….wish you could find a JACK CLONE out there as a gift giveaway!!!! But since I’m sure there is only one of a kind Jack, that will never happen! The gifts you give are so sweet, generous and thoughtful…..thank you both for who you are!
I just got my friend hooked on your blog, and she is all caught up—–another fan! We talk about you and your life all the time. I need to make sure she gets entered too! Off I go….
This cloning thing, in the right hands, could work! We could all have a Jack!
I love all the holiday decorating that you have shared with us, it has given me some ideas, like the little trees in the kitchen window. And isn’t Joe just so good to be able to make wreaths and roping from the yard. The mugs is the prfect thing for my Twinings breakfast tea in the morning. Soo I hope Vanna draws my name.
My bunny and I would love that mug! And the beautiful wreath!
Absolutely LOVE the wreath! It’s just beautiful!
Love your whimsical traditional Christmas decorating. We still get a fresh cut tree also–it just smells soooo good! I don’t care about the “mess”! Would love to win the cute cup and notebook.
Dear Sue – I believe a house is not a home without a cat and it certainly is NOT Christmas without a cat. What is more Christmas spirity that caring for a dear little creature – or several – or lots! Mine are all rescues and seeing their sweet faces, finally relaxed and not afraid or hungry, makes me feel about as Christmasy as you can ever feel. Love seeing your house. I dream of moving there and bringing all the cats with me – so they can see beautiful fluffy snow, and meet your kitties!
I found your site a few years ago while looking for the wonderful person who held my heart due to the beautiful scrapping stickers. Since then, I have followed your site almost religously and have loved every minute. The most exciting time was your trip to England and the Beatrix Potter sitting room. I could only imagine your delightwhile there. Having only been to London once in my 65 years, seeing and sharing in your venture filled me with continued dreams of returning soon. Love your recipes, your decor inside and out, your warm kitty…..but most of all, I want to thank you for making my days brighter by just opening your life up for the world to see. Good Luck with the photo shoot and Yankee magazine. Have a glorious Christmas and New Years. Hugs…
I am SO looking forward to writing the Beatrix Potter part of my diary! It’s my favorite!
Hi Susan,
Your house looks wonderful, can’t wait to see your tree all decorated. Tell Joe he missed his calling until now, the wreath and roping are gorgeous, can’t believe you have the wreath fixin’s in your yard. I may have to go on a scavenger hunt in my neighborhood. Kind of gets me in the mood to do some decorating here in Indy. My mom would have loved your cardinal notebook, I think cardinals were her absolute favorite bird. Thanks for your blog and letting us into your home and life, it’s great fun looking over your shoulder…I feel like we are best friends!
THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR LOVE AND KINDNESS AND TALENT!!!!!!!! You ALWAYS inspire me!
Susan,
Love all of your decorations. Joe did a great job making the wreath and roping.
Look forward to seeing the article in Yankee Magazine.
Wishing you and Joe a wonderful holiday,
Rhonda Orozco
I love, love, love the homemade wreaths you and Joe have made!!! So traditionally festive!! SO much better than store bought!!! I love this time of year because that means it’s almost time for my new Susan Branch calendar!! My favorite gift every year!! My mom always gets it for me for Christmas!! This year, we are all going to Branson, Missouri to spend Christmas so we can all spend the holidays together for a very special reason….I became a grandmother for the first time 3 weeks ago!!! Us and my daughter in law’s family are all spending Christmas together so we can all share in Julian’s first Christmas. The trip is our “gift” this year, but mom told me she was still getting me my SB calendar!! It just wouldn’t be Christmas without it!!!!
Jack is amazing and your husband is pretty talented too! I just love seeing what you and your family are up to in each blog post!
me, me,me….oh me!! pick me!! pleeassee??? pretty please!!! fingers crossed! I would LOVE to have this prize and since I dont have a “Joe” of my own, a wreath made by him would be just wonderful!! In fact I was wondering what to hang on my front door and this would be just the right thing!! and of course that cardinal notepad, that would be the bomb!! I just LOVE them and when I had my own home (I now have an apartment) I would feed them all year long but loved the winter with their bright red coats against the snow!! I would talk to them all the time and would yell out when I filled the feeders!! they would show up soon after!!
Anyway, reading your blog brings me such joy!! Thank God for you and Joe! you are such great people!
sincerely
Jill from upstate NY
I will bring your comment to the attention of Vanna! 🙂
If anyone is having trouble getting the Christmas spirit, it is right here – so special. Loved this installment. I participated in a wreath making party on Saturday – thought mine was pretty nice til I saw Joe’s – spectacular. I am visiting my grandson this week and am planning to make a banner for his room – thinking of saying “Jingle Bell Time”. Thanks for all the inspiration!!