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
Thank you over and over for your wonderful ideas and pictures in your blog. Got out your Christmas recipe book on December 1st, just to get into some holiday spirit. I love looking at your old family Christmas photos on the dedication page. So much like my own memories! Enjoyed making your pea soup today (for the hundredth time!) on a rainy Seattle day- everyone loves it!
Wow, great wreath and garland. I think I will have to show this to my husband. His idea of decorateing is putting up the lights.
Can’t wait to see your tree. Do you use a quilt for the tree skirt? I do. But I usually have to try out several before I decide which one to use.
Happy Christmas!
I have a very old piece of Christmas flannel I use — it gets covered with packages usually, so I keep the quilts up on the chairs!
Love it Susan! I so enjoy reading your blog…. It makes me happy. Thank you!
I have been a fan of yours forever. I love getting Willard, especially the Christmas edition. You inspire me even when I don’t want to be inspired – when I am cranky and tired and just want to do nothing. You always cheer me up with your gorgeous artwork and thought-provoking sayings and quotes. Thank you so much for bringing joy into my life year after year.
I love the way you take us into your home and share your recipes, collections and decorations with us. It’s so personal and welcoming. I feel like I get a hug from you every time I visit your website. Thank you so much for all you do.
Love your beautiful home and the pretty kitties too. I would so love to have such a gorgeous wreath. Seasons Blessings.
Susan, I loved reading this post.. You really put me into the Christmas spirit!
Thank you so much for sharing this with us.. I can’t wait to see your decorated tree!! Please tell Joe his wreath is lovely and I really like the way you arranged the garland above your kitchen window. I bet it’s a welcome smell each time you enter that room 🙂
My little girl was reading this post with me and she said,”Mommy, why are you reading about that cat?!? You are allergic to cats!” I thought that was so funny! Thank you for the beauty that you share!
LOL so cute Stacy!
Hello Susan! My goodness, you have been so very busy! I think Jack is definately the focal point of your whimsical Christmas theme this year!!! Even his black and white colorings are perfect among the greens and reds of the season!!!! Did the little kitchen bird tree come with all of the tiny birds or did you collect them separately and add them through the years? I adore it so!!!!! How generous of you to include such special treasures for your give-a-way!!! (I’m keeping my fingers crossed in Dearborn, Michigan!)
I collected them, not for this purpose really, I just loved them and put them around the house, like in the little cup. But one day I was putting the tree on the table and I popped a bird on it, and that was it, ran around getting them all!
Joy, joy for Christmas…count me in for the Christmas drawing! I love your whimsey…very sweet and I’m inspired!!! Hurry, Vanna!!!
Susan, I so look forward to reading your blog when it shows up in my email! I have a love for country decorating with a touch of whimsy myself..I have been collecting and reading your beautiful cookbooks for years..your BLUEBERRY PIE recipe has long become a family favorite. Every visit to your blog is like a new adventure..thank you for sharing! And, as Denver, Colorado natives… My hubby of 30 years and I have been “Bronco’ ing Up” as we call it every Bronco game for years! I have as many or more Bronco clothing items than my husband, and I am more “jazzed” than I’d care to admit during the games!! And, yes, were thrilled as well about our boys in blue/orange doing so well… I am still looking for the perfect “Manning” jersey for my sweetie! Hope you all have a glorious Christmas! :0)
Susan—-Love all your Christmas decorating and Joe’s handmade greenery! Finished with ours just last Friday, still doing alittle tweeking! Much of mine is vintage, and the tree is favorites from our 40 yrs. of marriage including handmade and antique glass ornaments found at garage and craft sales. I’ve made felt, stuffed, red and white birds to hang on the dining room light over the table. I have the bird tea cup from your store and would love the Christmas one! Our most beloved pet, Miss Kitty, used to jump up and rub our legs just as your Jack does! Sending our best wishes to you, at this most wonderful time of the year, from North Idaho!
Ok, two things….
1) the wreath your husband made is amazing…..what did he use as the base?
B) Jack is so cute and very trendy with his mustache! My niece is into the mustache hype and thinks Jack is very cool!
Christine L.
He found these rings. Thats all, a thin metal ring!
Merry Christmas to you and yours from Texas! Enjoyed looking at all of your photos, your decorations are wonderful and very inspirational, too. You have a beautiful home!
Just discovered your website…loving it.
The tea cup set photo makes me want to go
make a cup of tea NOW…to have it in my
hands would be delight-full.
Love your Christmas decor! So inspiring,
Beautiful and inspiring as always! I agree with you I like the traditional old fashion kind of Christmas decorations. I have many christmas decorations that I have inherited from my grandmother and I love putting them out every year. I love when you include pictures of Jack and Girl Kitty in your posts. They are truly adorable kitties. I have a year and a half kitty named Zelda that could be Jacks’ twin both in looks and playfulness. We adopted her from a cat rescue group here in upstate New York but she originally came from Brooklyn. I would be very excited to win your amazing give away! I’ll keep my fingers crosssed and just for good measure I’ll ask Zelda to cross her little kitty toes! Merry Christmas to you and Joe and kitties!
Thank you for sharing all your fabulousness with us!! I would love to win but if not my friend and I will be making our own wreaths out of stuff from her backyard- we are in California and she has a magnolia tree, boxwood, pepper tree berries, kumquats and assorted dried items that are down in her part of a wash! I hope our wreaths look as amazing as the Joe’s-
Such a delightful giveaway!!! I would be so proud to have a wreath made by Joe….and the darling teacup. I’ll keep my fingers crossed…thanks so much.
We had dinner with some of my grands last night and we made little MERRY CHRISTMAS banners ala Susan Branch. Such a cute idea. Love all your inspiration.
I still haven’t received my Willard. Did it go out last week or this?
Warmest wishes!
Nancy (from Bakersfield)
Thank you for another wonderful installment, Susan. I just love reading your blogs – they are full of so much warmth, cheer and sincerity. I especially like your Christmas bird tree. I have a bird tree of my own, made of old glass birds with feather tails perched on a white bottle brush tree my aunt gave me. For me, it is a year round decoration 🙂 Like you, I also have a bird feeder outside my window, and find happiness and peace in watching the birds flying to and fro. Hope you and Joe have fun decorating your tree!
Rebecca
Hi Susan! I feel like I have known you for a while, even though I just recently found your blog. A dear friend emailed me your link a few months ago. She said ghat everytime.she read your bloc she thought about me. Being curious I checked it out. Well…my friend was quite on the mark. Starting with my husbands name is Joe. We have a cat who looks like your darling kitty’s twin. My life is all about home. A home that is close to 100. We live in a saltbox cottage. My soul thrives in living in old charmed houses. Thank you for sharing your love of home. My husband and I li e in California with our four furry children….Teah, Earl, Cami, and Darjeeling (three little. doggies and our beautiful and very smart cat too. Happiest of holidays!
.
Nice to meet you Marcia!
I love that you decorate with the the things that make you happy. Sometimes I feel my decorating might be a little too much but when I look at it, it makes me happy! That’s what I enjoy about your blog. It is upbeat and makes me smile! Merry Christmas!
It is looking quite merry, merry and jolly, jolly in Santa Susan-land!!
I love all the touches. . . especially Joe’s garlands and wreaths – WOW!
Wishing you JOY and magic*~*~*~*
Thank you for the giveaway and your words that touch the heart and photos that uplift the spirit.
What a lovely and inspiring post Susan. I have gotten about 25% of my decorating done and we won’t do a tree for another week, they just dry out too fast in SoCa. But all the boxes are down from the loft in the garage and after a good cleaning tomorrow I will go to town and get most of the rest complete. and then maybe make a batch of cookie dough and freeze the individual ball sits just so nice to pull out 6 (ok, 8) and have warm cookies with evening tea while watching the fire.
Thank you for such a wonderful opportunity, I would hang Joe’s wreath on the front door so everyone would admire it as they come to celebrate. I am so looking forward to Willard this week.
Just when I thought Joe could not get any more perfect he goes and makes wreaths …….sigh! What a guy! Love the wreaths and your swag is beautiful. The tree–definitely not a Charlie Brown one! Girl Kitty looks picture perfect sitting on the quilts and Jack by the fire is so sweet. I got shivers about the rubber bands as my rescued dog Tuffy was abused and ran away and when we captured him (after a year) someone had put a thick rubber band around his neck and it grew into it and got infected and he was almost dead when we finally caught him…3 months (at the vets) and major surgery to repair the quarter sized hole in his neck . I know you probably won’t print this cause it is kind of a downer but please no more rubber bands!!! Maybe you could stick me in the drawing anyway because I love your blog! It is raining and warmish here in Idaho!!!
Both of you are so creative! It’ll be a real treat to see everything in a magazine. And all three items you are giving away are beautiful and a nice gift!
Happy holidays,
Linda
i never win anything! but i would really love this! and if jack somehow ends up hiding inside the package, would i have to send him back? 🙂
Way. Too. Cute. Again!
Please pick me! 🙂
Oh, what a delight to read about your Christmas “busyness.” It’s so contagious and beautiful! Our family Christmas is going to be a little different this year. My husband got a wonderful new job 3 hrs. away from our “home” of 22 years, and we’re living in a cute little rent house for now. But… I really miss sorting through all of those “traditions” that you speak of as I would decorate each room and look forward to making more memories with family. We probably would have gone back to decorate sparsely – enough to make it delightful for our granddaughter, but about two months ago our whole house was flooded when the hot water heater burst (conveniently while we were out of town for the week.) Our family has agreed to have Christmas at the rent house, but it won’t be quite the same. I’m trying to get in the spirit of the season by trying a new “whimsical” Christmas color scheme (red and aqua), but I’m with you – Christmas is all about that warm, cozy, magical feeling that we had as children and about making wonderful memories with our loved ones. This Christmas is already special in one way – we are looking forward to welcoming a new grandson in 2013. Why yes, of course, he already has a stocking up this year! Well, on with the decorating! Happy holidays to you and yours and thank you for sharing your charming life with us.
Love your kitties-sooo photogenic! Thanks for letting us watch your Christmas transformation. Mine’s in progress-I had stalled out then my daughter came home from college to do laundry( one plus of a broken washer!) then we got the tree up well on it’s way and she magically assembled our snow village in a flash! Just when my spirits were sagging and now to read your post…Yaay! I’m waiting on Willard til I can savor it , also am REALLY anxious to make the banner! The list is long and days are short! Enjoy each one! XO Best girlfriend!
What a lucky girl you are with such a talented kitty like Jack and a talented husband like Joe! Love, love, love the little cup and saucer! Merry Christmas!!
Down here even in tropical Kerala, the mornings are bracingly cold and we have to wear our woolen hats on our morning walks. At the beginning of December star lanterns shine from the porches of houses and everything looks festive. I am getting down our decorations this evening and my star too will start shining today!
Oh, Susan, Thank you for all of the inspiration! I feel like stringing pom-poms and making a wreath. (Well, I would have to go on a search for the proper greenery as I do not have any as lovely as yours!)
We have our own version of a Kitty Christmas here and I love your Jack and Girl stories! I forward a link for your blog to my daughter, Erika, who is at college because she misses her kitties so much while she is away from home and your photos and “Cat-Tales” give her a kitty fix until she can get home to her own fur babies.
I am anxiously awaiting Willard’s arrival – I can’t wait for your latest Blog or Willard as they feel a visit from an old friend!
Until next time!
Mischelle
As always, you are inspiring, charming, and make all of us feel like we really are welcome to visit your home! I can’t believe, with all you have to do, that you take the time to spend with us. Thank you, thank you!!
Just purchased the little bird mug, would love to have the Christmas one along with the wonderful extras! Love your inspiration, what a gift you are!
Dear Susan,
I love the little tea cup with the bird in it and the tree with the birds.
Thanks for all your wonderful ideas and creations.
Your joy in the season makes me want to decorate every room in our house, instead of just the main floor. This is a good thing! 🙂 Thank you!
I’m in serious love with you and Joe and your “children”. Wish I lived next door 🙂
Ahh, now I’m really ready to decorate for Christmas. Thank you Susan (and Joe, Jack and Girl).
I do miss the marvelous piney smell of a real tree. It is something I can almost smell if I close my eyes and remember back to those sweet days as a child.
What a wonderful treat to find your latest entries on the computer this morning! I can’t wait to make that banner! At the moment, I am sitting at the window of our hotel room in Weiden Germany( my husband is on business here, I came to PLAY!) If you ever get the chance to be in Germany during December- take it! Every town has it’s own Weihnactsmarkt (Christmas Market) with delicious ger, I will plan the adventure of the day- another little town to explore!man food, hot spiced cider, and wonderful Christmas decorations for your inspiration!to buy! ( I just might have to find something to send you!)
So, as I finish my tea, listening to the Church bells ring and watching the snow fall( the BIG white puffy flakes!),it is time to plan todays adventure! So many adorable little towns!
Thank you again for your inspiration!
Thank you agian
so sorry for the jumbled appearance of the e-mail- my husbands laptop has a mind of its own!
🙁
Doesn’t that just sound wonderful! Love the church bells, found them for my phone, so when it rings it REALLY rings! Enjoy!
The greens on the curtain rod are a great idea for us—our two brother cats won’t leave alone any live plant displays I attempt—including cut flowers and house plants (had to give them all away) One small victory has been a decorative bird cage into which I can place fall leaves or small summer boquets. They can not reach the curtain rod, so another victory! Love your creative ideas for garlands, especially the colored pompoms with straws, and your Merry Christmas banner. Thanks for sharing your home and your heart.
Hi Susan,
I was so happy to read the current posting…you have really put me in a decorating mood! It is somewhat hard to do traditional things here in Qingdao, China…not too much Christmasy stuff is available, but I do like hanging greenery for the winter season, and of course – we bake. My mother baked with me and my 3 sisters when we were little, I baked with my daughter, and now we are both baking with my 4 year old grandaughter. So we definitely keep tradition alive, even in a foreign land. We are going to attempt a gingerbread house, should be fun. Thanks for keeping us in touch with all the holiday traditions and other parts of life that we miss. Best wishes,
Mary in China
It’s funny, so much of what we find in the stores to decorate with comes from China! Greenery and baking, what more could a person ask for! xoxo Perfect!
I just get such joy lying in bed at night looking at your blog, and waking my husband occasionally to share something I’ve seen that I love. Thank you.
Oh, as usual, reading your blog leaves me feeling so cozy! I just love seeing Jack & girl – they are so gorgeous! I am a “cat lady” (not a crazy cat lady!) and LOVE my precious angels, as you do! I enjoy seeing your lovely home on the Vineyard and hearing about all your wonderful project! Joe did a fab job on the wreath! 🙂
Hello Susan, Joe, Girl and Jack… Merry Christmas 🙂 Thank You for sharing your home with us. It is wonderful and worm. The give-aways are so sweet and make us feel special, even if we do not win 🙂 But would be Fantastic if I did 🙂
Texas’s Hugs, Mary Beth:)
ps. kitty kisses for Girl and Jack from YumYum 🙂 xoxo
Your window garlands are my favorite thing ever. I was inspired immediately to cut green felt holly leaves and round red berries to swag on my kitchen window. I will add a row of gingerbread men and perhaps another of red wooden beads. Your sweet kitty Jack reminds me of my recently departed, Moo, also a tuxedo cat. Aren’t they the most wonderful? And your (cast iron?) little white scottie dog on the hearth looks just like my Whisky, a corgi/terrier! Your blog *makes my day* every time I get a new one on my email. THANK you for your whimsy and love and creativity and generous sharing. I feel like we’ve been BFFs forever! Happy holidays to you and to Joe, and Jack and Girl! Love from all of us here at home! Margy
Hi Susan, Just love the pictures of Jack, never can have too many pictures of him. But it was nice to see Girl kitty too. I love your tree. My husband usually goes out & cuts ours and it is always a poor Charlie Brown kind of tree. Can’t even put all of my ornaments on it as the branches are too spindly & far apart. One of these days, I’ll make him get a REAL tree!
Susan,
Always enjoy seeing all your decorations, especially the handmade ones.
I’m pretty sure that I am going to have to find a little tree for birds, love it.
My sister is the bird lover, which means I will have to make 2, she’ll be surprised
which is nice. I have always decorated with my own handmade decorations since
I got married, much nicer, but I now live in a cottage tha is less that 1/4 the size. A lot had to go. Sad but I love where I live.
Already made the bunting. Looks so cute over the kitchen window, which overlooks the river.
My female Delta could be Jack’s twin, Acts like him too. She’s definitely
her Momma’s girl. Cries when I step out of the house, even for a minute.
Thanks for the wonderful giveaway. They are always so amazing. Can’y wait
to see the results of the house when you have finished.
Waiting on pins and needles for the diary.
Happy Holidays to you and Joe and the Kitties,
Cathe
I just found your blog last week, and I’m in love with it! I’m also in love with your kitties – so sweet. Thank you for sharing bits & pieces of your life with us!
Nice to meet you Susan!
Ohhh my , what beautiful wreaths made from the greenery in your yard. I love just having such a variety of greens….just so pretty. Joe did an awesome job…Makes we want to gather from my own and do the same 🙂 Have a blessed holiday season…your home is so pretty and so full of tradition. Love it!
Susan;
It looks like you are having a terrific time! It also looks like Joe can add one more thing to his list of many talents! I fully intended to comment before I even read the part about the give away! :)That greenery is just gorgeous! How wonderful to have a “wreath & roping garden” just steps away!!! What a dynamic duo the two of you make! Can’t wait to see the rest! Off to read my Willard! XOXO!
Merry Christmas to you and Joe and your darling Kits!
How wonderful ALL your decorations are! I took our decorations out of storage on Monday, and hope to get the outside done today…my DH gets depressed at Christmas every year (long story) and usually I have to do the decorating myself…I refuse to let ANYONE take the JOY out of my FAVORITE holiday!!!…but THIS year he has all of a sudden gotten enthused about it, and since he is approaching 84, I will well take advantage of that and we are planning the artistic approach we will take on side porch and the bow(like on a ship) shaped fence in the side yard, which can be seen from far up the street. I had hoped to be moved into our 1st owned home but medical things took over on me this year so here we still are in this too small rental…but far luckier than many who have had to rest their heads in shelters.this year..I pray THEY will also return to their environs soon. Our 4 kitties are anticiipating their “stockings” already, and are running and playing and showing us how “smart” and “wonderful” they are, but we already knew that! Have a blessed holiday season from your galpal in NH!
Dear Susan,
Your books, recipes, calendars, and artwork have been a special part of celebrating the seasons for me for years. Reading your blog is such a special treat! Each one leaves me filled with such happiness and joy. Sending much love to you and hoping that your holidays are blissfully happy too!
I noticed the white Scottie dog next to your fireplace. Is it cast iron? I have one just like it, but it’s black. It was my grandmother’s, but I don’t know much else about it. It just always sits at my hearth.
You have charmed the Christmas spirit right into me – thanks! Needed the extra nudge. ALWAYS love Jack and Kitty stories too. Everything you post simply touches my heart.
Yes, it’s cast iron. If you look really close, you will see the black one next to it . . . he kind of blends in with the black edge of the fireplace. I was thinking I found them at an antique store, but now I’m thinking they came from Joe’s great aunt — we’ve had them for a long time.
Yes, now I see it. That’s my cast iron dog! He always dons a plaid bow at Christmas. 🙂 He was in my grandmother’s home when I was very little, and that was 60+ years ago, so I think these Scotties are pretty old. Fun!
I really enjoyed Willard. I also grew up in southern California, so your experiences and mine were quite the same. We even could have been twins at 16 – same haircut!
You are so right about the small moments – that’s where the real enchantment always lies. Merry Christmas!
I think my whole high school had that haircut! 🙂
Thank you for the Willard – a very nice way to begin the holiday. As I entered the “blog” I was tickled by Joe’s artistry! That Joe – what a guy! I bought an Emma Bridgestone cup the other day (from you, of course) and I want you to know I have coffee with you each time I use it – AND remember our England trip – can’t wait for the book!! Looking forward to times spent remembering my childhood Christmas’, taking a ride to observe the wonderful lights on houses & yards and watching my grandchildren enjoying Vine Street Christmas celebration in Paso Robles. This will be their first year! I remember taking my first grandson (now 22 and will be a daddy soon) to Vine Street – we bundled him up in a snow suit, put him in the stroller and journeyed off – I was so excited to take him, walked up to the first house with all the lights and excitedly said “Ohhhh, look at all the lights, Nicolas!!” As I turned to look at his response, I discovered he was sound asleep, all cozy and warm! I still laugh at that! He slept the whole way. He was 6 months old!!! Oh Christmas brings treasures of years gone by to the forefront of our minds and makes us smile and our hearts jump!! Bless this season!! XXXXOOOO Gramma Pat
Hi Susan!
Your dear Jack is becoming more and more adorable and I so enjoy reading about his antics! I had two tiny kitties once, so when I read that he wasnt too big, my heart leaped! My two were sisters and I used to refer to them as “The Girls.” One was a tri-colored calico and the other a striped grey and black tabby. Its been a couple of years since they passed but I still miss their precious little faces and personalities. I got teary when you discribed Jack sitting by the fire and the pictures of him warming himself on the hearth is so sweet! No wonder your in love with him.
Oh, how I miss my girls! But twenty some years old was not bad for tiny cats to live if you ask me.
Then we got Miss Luna at the local no kill shelter and she is like your Girl in color and markings. She is far from being small or dainty but there was this instant attraction we had towards her when we met her. She came home with us that very day and what a jewel she is and so sweet and full of life, we are the lucky ones to have gotten her. You know your story on how you got Jack was my final push to go get Luna. I had spied her picture on the shelter website. I had been debating if we should get another cat for several days, but after reading Jack’s story and seeing his picture I knew we couldnt wait another day. So in some part you and Jack played a roll in inspiring me to make a home for our little fur child! Thank you both! 🙂
Give Joe a thumbs up from me… He is sooooooo talented! Do you hire him out???those fresh green swags and wreaths are very beautiful. The look and smell of real greens really says Christmas.
Good luck with the magazine shoot and hope you are going to have time to show us your tree with all that your doing right now.
Best wishes….
Jamie
Dear Joe & Susan,
Thank you BOTH for sharing all your Great Creativity as you help inspire all your fans this Christmas Season !
Also,for sharing the bookmarks with the Full Moon dates, a girlfriend was just asking me a couple days ago if I would look at my new calendar and write down next years full moon dates down for her because she has so much fun checking out the full moons with her hubby . . . this morning I told her “Ask, and you shall receive . . . as I handed her your bookmark printed out on some cardstock . . . she loved it ! : )
OK, I plan to “get my act together” now, just as soon as I can walk away from viewing all sorts of fun stuff on your website : ) Think I’ll start with making “Merry Christmas” garlands for our 3 grown kids who have moved away, thankfully the farthest one is only a hour away studying to be a nurse, perhaps I can deliver hers in person and offer the girls help in decorating their apartment while they study away for finals !?!
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year !
(BTW, thank you also for sharing “What are you doing Christmas Eve?” . . . I don’t recall ever hearing that song and now it will be stuck in my head the rest of the year.) : )
TTFN,
Linda C.
Dear Susan, You are priceless in all the lovely inspiration you send our way. Thank you, and a very Merry Christmas to you and Joe.
Hi Susan, I love all you decor, as usual! Jack’s pretty cute too! You’re so nice to do the giveaways! The wreath Joe made is beautiful!
Your home overflows with Christmas cheer but I’m sure it’s the love you and Joe share that gives it it’s “come sit by the fire” glow. Merry Christmas, Susan and Joe!
Your messages, home, and joy in life are so special. Thank you for all you share.
I look forward to your blog…what an inspiration you are! You are a bundle of creativity and energy. I am in love with Jack…what a handsome feline. My granddaughter has a kitten who entertains all of us and manages to get himself in a bit of mischief at times. Her kitty has plenty of patience…they play hide & seek; she strolls him in the dolly buggy and attempts to wear him as a fur piece. He is her protector. Each night he keeps vigil over her as she sleeps. They are best of pals! Kitty’s favorite thing about Christmas so far is a bell hung low on the Christmas tree. Whenever he is bored, he goes to the tree, bats it with his paw, and then runs. It’s holiday music for us! Happy Holidays to you…
Oh my! That little Jack — that little face of his is SO adorable & so mischievous looking!!! Makes me want to hold him and love him. Love your update on him! 🙂
Your fresh greens are wonderful! Joe seems to be a “jack-of-all-trades”. How great for you, Susan! He did a lovely job!
I just told a friend about your blog tonight — how peaceful & how wonderful it is to sit down, relax and read your posts! I think you may have another follower! 🙂
Thanks for the joy you bring to your readers!
‘Sweet Susann’,as always,Marvelousness ! Thank you for the joy you bring with your sharing. A blessed season,a happy season. One filled with that child-like wonder that seems to only come out at this time of year. Possibility and creativity abound. You just want to spread the joy and love. You and Joe are the epitome !
Blessings to you and yours this holiday season.
A quick P.S. I got the movie ‘Random Harvest’ and the book. Have not read the book yet,but the movie? I could have watched it over and over,again and again.
Thank you for suggesting them. I’ve also spent this year collecting the Betsy Tacy books for my daughter. A Christmas joy for her! Thanks heaps ! Much love and joy sent your way. Veronica/Sumerduck Va.
Random Harvest! Betsy Tacy! Merry Christmas is right!
It is so fun and inspiring to see your home. Such fun to be preparing for a magazine shoot.
Merry Christmas.
Fondly,
Glenda
* Good Morning Susan *
“Whimsical Christmas” is your new adorable blog! And to see and read what’s going on @ your lovely home, it’s really beginning to look alot like Christmas!
You’ve got that magic touch!
Look at all these posts! 1282 responses and counting! Now, I’ll make it # 1283 with my post/message. After reading so many of the delightful comments, I must say, I, along with all of our Girlfriends, love a whimsical Christmas as much as a traditional one too.
The first photo of Jack greeted us with his “Jack’s eye-view of his little corner of the world”. Too cute! I see little Girl is cozy too. Your chosen Christmas tree is a beauty…majestically waiting to be trimmed and decorated! Of course, I must comment on your mini bird tree, too.. now, that is truly a whimsical tree…so “tweet”…oh, I mean…so “sweet”.
A polka-dotted cup and saucer set with a peppermint lid, a darling Cardinal notebook and a beautiful hand-made-home-grown-by-Joe-Christmas Wreath, trimmed-with-bow-birdie-and pears-by you! It’s a Joe & Susan original, for sure! Such special gifts! How thoughtful you both are to all of us!
Oh, yes enter my name for this wonderful drawing. Thank you., dear Susan. It’s almost 1:50 AM here, and right after I send this to you, I’ll peek out my window and wish upon the brightest star I see in the sky and make a wish. I do know, though, that my wish will be # 1283, along with all the other girlfriends.
Wishing…and dreaming…from,
* Dorothy Ann on Cougar Mountain, Washington *
Morning Dorothy Ann!
Hello Girlfriends!!! I’m overwhelmed by your wonderful heartfelt comments — you are making my day! I’m reading them all, smiling and laughing — I wish I could answer everyone, but you know I can’t — still, I wanted you to know how much I am appreciating you, and them, and loving my blog even more because you are here! Thank you! xoxo
I wish, I wish, with all my heart!! <3 What a lovely, lovely giveaway. And thank you for sharing all of your precious Christmas preparations. I'm so impressed with Joe's creativity, too. You two make a great pair 🙂
What a wonderful whimisical post! Thank you so much for brightened my morning 🙂 I always love “visiting” you on the Cape 🙂 Someday, I hope to enjoy a stroll around the villages of the Cape at Christmastime & then visit the winter ocean. Please enter me for a chance to win your over-the-top with generosity giveaway.
Smiles, DianeM
P.S. – Jack is such a cutie!
Love your traditional Christmas decorations. We have a tradition of every trip we go on we hunt down an ornament for our tree. We bring home a nice but inexpensive momento of our travels and love reliving the adventures every year when we decorate the tree! Happy Christmas to you and yours.
I love your decorations. Nothing says Christmas like pine and holly. i can imagine the smells. The cup and saucer are so cute and would love to have my hot drinks from it each morning and evening. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
I have started my decorating,too. Now I’m hoping for some winter weather as it has been unseasonably warm. I’m dreaming of a white Christmas!
Me too!
Hi Susan,
I was just wondering how you capture the sweet expressions and mannerisms that you paint in the pictures of the people you include in your artwork. For instance, how did you paint the picture of the darling little red headed girl clutching the book on your “favorite books” page of the website? She is adorable. Do you use photographs, watch children at play as you paint, or simply use your imagination for your beautiful portraits? I love the artwork of children on the covers of the old Good Housekeeping magazines. One of my favorite artists (along with you!) is Jessie Willcox Smith. I do wish we could convince magazines to go back in time a bit and use more artwork again for their covers! Thank you for sharing your gift of writing and painting with all of us! You bring joy to so many 🙂
Carolyn
I love those covers too! I have watched children at play, but probably most often, I use old photos of myself and my family, child photos, us in different positions. I have one picture of a girl eating cereal, with a ponytail and pink dress, but she is really my nephew! The one you are talking about was kind of a conglomeration, ending up with my shoes. Thanks so much Carolyn!
Your decorations are beautiful!!! And I can’t wait to see your tree all decorated!!! Isn’t this just the most wonderful time of year?!!!! I know it is for me, anyway!!! You can probably tell by the millions of exclamation marks that keep jumping off my fingers!!! 🙂 Thank you for the wonderful giveaway that I will pretend I am winning and planning where to put the beautiful wreath!!! And that mug is so adorable!!! And oh how I love cardinals!!! Thank you for all the wonderful inspiration you give to all of us who come to visit!!!
I own my own business….which I love…but it is a lot of work and a lot of stress, especially this time of year!! Your Blog….and all of the pictures and your artwork….is like a tiny, much needed, vacation!! Just for a moment I am in a place without a to do list as long as…well Santa’s!!! Thank you for making me smile!!
Susan-thanks for the lovely post!
Please enter me in your draw of beautiful, girlie things!
Thanks!
Jacqueline in Pitt Meadows, BC CANADA
Merry Christmas–you are putting me in the holiday mood to get going on my decorating!!! We’re going to buy our tree this evening! Love Joe’s greenery!!
Sitting here with Fattie ( we mean that in the most loving way) and Yellow Kitty enjoying a cup of tea and your blog! Really nice job on the wreath! Hhmm, neat idea for a hostess gift. If I don’t win it, I’ll try to make one too!
Susan,
I love reading your blog and seeing the photos. It always brings back such heartwarming memories for me of when my folks lived on the Vineyard. We too enjoyed walks down the same road and to the same beach as you and Joe. Thank you for bringing a little bit of the Vineyard back into my life. Have a very happy holiday season!
hello Susan, hello Joe! Thank you for sharing your whimsical Christmas decorating with us. I loved all of the wonderful pictures, especially the ones of Girl and Jack….she is so beautiful and he is just so cute!
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for this festive blog & the new Willard! It’s like a pile of gorgeous Christmas cards all rolled into one pretty page 🙂 Your home looks beautiful! I’ll be thinking of you on the 11th when more of the world will get to see your wonderful work!
Kelly from eastern PA
How wonderful to see how you decorate your home. This is one of my favorite things to do during this season – to see other homes. Can’t wait to see your beautiful tree in full glory! Merry Christmas.
Your holiday decorating photos are just lovely – thanks for the inspiration!
Good Morningn Susan,
Thank you for the early Christmas present! I enjoy all your blogs but for some reason this one touched my heart in such a nice way. I loved the pics of Jack and Girl Kitty. You have definitely captured a whimsical Christmas and then some…Yankee magazine in my house is a must and has been since 1968. I lived in Dublin N.H. form 1968 to 1972 and fell in love with the magazine then. I can’t wait to see the pictures and story that the magazine will print about your home. Oh and what a beautiful wreath Joe made…so special. Merry Christmas to you and Joe and a Happy 2013!
i’ve decided to follow your lead and make garlands this year for window dressings! Thank you for the idea and demonstration…and thank you for your wonderful blog. Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas Susan and Joe! Love the wreath!
I just finished reading Whimsical Christmas Decorating…I have tears in my eyes–JOY TEARS–the best kind. I love, love, love seeing pics of both your Darling
Kitties. Girl is so REGAL. I was feeling a bit Scroogey this morning…now I feel inspired—THANK YOU.
Yay! Have a wonderful day Cindy!
I can feel the creative energy flowing from your home all the way to Michigan! What fun things you and Joe are working on. Isn’t that the time when you feel most yourself, when you let those whimsical ideas lead you to create something so unique and meaningful? There’s no substitute for the processes of art and play!
No, there is truly something a little bit mystical about it!
I love the new 2013 Full Moon bookmark from the new Willard. Thank you! I think the Joe Wreath will look lovely on our California front door.
🙂 Karen!
What a beautiful post, Susan! Thank you. I closed my eyes and could smell the freshly baked cookies and the fragrant Christmas tree. {Inhale…ahh…} Joe’s wreath is beautiful, and I love the things you added to it. I’d say you two make a great team. 🙂 Merriest of Christmases to you both!
What a great post today! You’re home looks so warm and cozy, and those cats crack me up! Thamks for sharing and for the generous give a way! Happy Holidays, Lee & Lucy
I look forward to reading your blog everyday. Love it… Reading your blog makes me happy.
I wish you and Joe a very Merry Christmas and to your kitties as well.
love what joe and you made from things found in your backyard!
thanks for sharing your holiday preparations with us.
merry christmas from the hills of western mass!!
Since moving far away from family many years ago, my Christmases are very different than the ones I grew up with. Having my “old things” around me really helps make it a special season. And I do like to keep winter and Christmas books around to pick up and dip into. One year I even got your “Christmas Joy”, book, Susan, from a friend and it is one of my favorites!
Hi Susan,
I’m a “Susan” too. Lots of nicknames, mainly Susie, Goober and Goob. I have only been called “Suze” by a few special people in my life and that is my favorite name so I have decided to be “Grandma Suze” in May when my very first grandchild will be born!!
What are your nicknames and which is your very favorite??
They only call me all variations of Susan. But one of my passwords is Goober! 🙂
Love your blog and photos! I really enjoy your old fashion decorating. There is just something heartwarming about homemade decorations. When my daughter asked what I wanted for Christmas this year I told her to look up Susan Branch and order me anything, I love it all! A friend in Florida.
Nice Diann!
Susan, everything you have done is SO GREAT! But I think the little bird sitting in the cup is my favorite–just does something to me, he/she looks so cozy. I have birds all over my house, never really set out to collect them, just can’t resist them! Tried your cranberry jam and just love it; I’m going to make Christmas presents of it for several folks, I think. Kudos to Joe, he really can do anything!
GIVE US MORE, MORE, MORE!
Nadine
Same thing happened to me, just finding birds I loved too much to leave where they were~have a great day Nadine!
I’m sorry to bother Busy You again, but I can’t get to the latest Willard; can you post a link? And, is there a way to access archives of your blog and newsletter without going backwards through them? I’d rather be reading them than any book I can think of right now! Just love them, and I’ve gotten my 25-year-old niece “hooked” too! She says she is now obsessed with Susan Branch! Love it!
Thanks, Nadine
Hi Nadine… It’s early still, Kellee might have a link, but I don’t and she won’t be in to the studio for several hours still. Willard is still going out — perhaps it just hasn’t come yet … it will go out until the end of today. Then, if you have signed up, you could check your spam file, it sometimes ends up there! Let me know if you still need it later today! Thank you! And hello to your niece from me! Glad you are enjoying everything!
Thanks, dear, it did come later today. You are so kind.
So happy to hear that!
Your home is so beautiful, you are doing a wonderful job decorating it. I can’t wait to see the Yankee magazine next year. I have a Romantic Home’s magazine from March 2001 that featured your lovely home. Your dining room looked so different with the green floral wallpaper. I also wanted to let you know that I made your Christmas Nut cookies last night and my family loved them. I hope it was okay to freeze half the dough. Have a wonderful Christmas season! Thank you for everything you do.
I’m sure it is! Joy to the world Susan!
Good morning, Susan! Thank you for bringing Christmas cheer into my home with your wonderful email! I look forward to reading all about your adventures each week. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Warmest wishes,
Nancy Kelley
Looking at your Christmas post made me very nostaglic for the Christmases of my childhood, when everything seemed magical. Just thinking about Christmas coming would give me that funny feeling in the pit of my stomach and I thought I would burst I would be so excited for it to come. I love this time of year, when anything seems possible.
I too have favorite ornaments, ones my great aunt made for my nana and were passed on to me, recipes that only get pulled out and made once a year, traditions that my kids remember from year to year. I have an 11 year old and a 13 year old and thank heavens, they still believe in Santa and the magic of Christmas. What a joyous time of year, thank you for sharing your holiday with us. God Bless..
You will have Christmas through their eyes, what a wonderful gift!