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
Hello,
I love the wreath! Beautiful.
I ordered my Mom your collection of Willards for Christmas! I was so excited to get the package in the mail.
Thank you so much for the smiles!
Merry Christmas!
Well, please tell your mom I wish her a very Merry Christmas!
Susan, your blog is a joy and a bright spot to my day. I always feel better after I stop by for a visit. Wishing you a joyous holiday season.
Coming to your blog is like going to a world of comfort. Your photos of your Christmas home (that’s what I call my house at Christmastime, my “Christmas home”) are lovely — perfectly whimsical & traditional at the same time 🙂
Thanks for sharing how you get ready for Christmas. It’s helping me get in the mood to decorate!
I love seeing all of your precious decorations! They warm my heart and make me smile!
This was the Best Post Ever! I loved pictures of the wide eyed innocence that is Jack and regal Girl Kitty sitting on her throne of quilts. I’m impressed by Joe’s beautiful wreath and, of course, your cozy, whimsical Christmas decorating. I hope I win your wonderful giveaway! What a perfect Christmas present that would be!
Your blog has got me into the Christmas spirit! I love the wreath and garlands that Joe did for you they are so wonderful. Love your Kitties love Jack by the fireplace so cute! Hope you don’t mind if I use your bird tree theme I have a small tree at work I would love to do in birds. just looking at yours made me smile. I would love to win the wreath, mug and the bird writing pad. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that Vanna picks me!!! wishing you and Joe a wonderful Christmas and blessed New Year!!!
Love the whimsical approach to Christmas decorating.
Your blog makes my day!
Lovely, lovely. If I weren’t already in the mood, reading about your decorating would certainly inspire me to get right on to it. That Jack Kitty of yours is such a sweet, funny boy! Mr. Personality!
I want to spend the holidays with you! I love your home…your kitties…your cuddly warm fire and especially the homemade cookies 🙂
Wow! I knew Joe could do many things, but that wreath is pure inspiration! He is quite the artist! Thank you for another, over-the-top Willard/blog and thank you for sharing some of your history. I love your family photos and your stories of days of yore! I lived in S. California for many years, and now I am in Central Oregon where I marvel, just as you do, at the miracle of changing seasons! Much love to you, Susan! Paula
Love your home and your cute, whimsical Christmas decor-it has that “warm and fuzzy” feel to it! Your cats just complete the picture. I would love to win your special prizes. Have a very Merry Christmas and the happiest of New Years!
Your blogs and Willards always give me a warm feeling inside! I love your Music provided at the beginning,too. I am listen to Josh Groban’s Christmas album as I write this after reading your blog post. Thank you for your creativity and inspiration that you never fail to provide! Have a wonderful Holiday season and Happy New Year!
I said, “Wow” out loud when I saw how many people were entering and leaving a comment. I wanted one of those cute cups when I first saw it. Precious. One more thing; if you read these comments, did Joe use metal wreath maker under the greens? I went to our local store and they were “out” of the bigger size. Maybe I can make it w/o the metal base? I’ll look for an answer. Thanks for this blog and also the fantastic Willard. You make my day. Love you girlfriend. S.
He came home from the hardware store with several 10″ rings. They look like the kind circus dogs jump through! Like not that much actually, he just wired everything onto them. Thank you Sheryl!
What a festive post – I love your house, and I also just love the giveaway – how nice of you to do that. Those teacups are so neat and I really love the note pad and of course what an honor to have a beautiful wreath made by you and hubby! Have a wonderful Christmas!
I’ve read and re-read this amazingly sweet post. So inspiring and beautiful. Heaven sent . . . Merry Christmas Susan, Joe and kitties!
I love your house. I can just almost smell that tree! Thanks for a great post. I’m looking forward to that cookie recipe too!
What a fun post! I’m so looking forward to the holidays this year! Merry Christmas, thanks for thinking of us with this cute gift! 🙂
Merry Christmas Susan! What a great post…I’ve read it a few times already : ) Packed with so many wonderful things. I have to go over it a few times to spy everything. Your Joe is very handy…the wreath is so beautiful! I would LOVE to be able to walk outside and have all that on hand to make. Since I don’t, it would BE SO FUN to win one made by Joe : ) My DH is Joe also…he is a pretty handy guy too. It’s really nice to have someone handy at home! I love bringing out all my traditional decorations. I lost my mother 2 years ago this Christmas. I now have a few things that were in my home growing up that she would put out every year. I will treasure them always!
Well…best go! This is long – sorry! On to read Willard. Have fun with the magazine folks Susan!
Fondly – Cindy
I love the bird tree! When I go on vacation I always try to buy a cute Christmas ornament. That way I can remember it every year when I decorate the tree. Last year I bought a sloth ornament on my honeymoon in Costa Rica… I think a whole tree of little forest animals would be so cute, starring Mr. Sloth! 🙂
I love hearing about all the details that have made your past and current Christmas special.
I loved seeing your Beatrix Potter collection have Christmas decorations added to them. I’m going to play around with that here. And last but not least, your kitties are adorable. Kitties are the best, they make my heart sing.
Your blog was delightful; reminds one of how wonderful Christmas traditions with family and friends are. I can smell those yummy cookies; those fresh, clean and pine fragrances from the wreath and garlands; and the tasty tea. Let me be among the almost 2,000 or so that would absolutely love to be gifted with your generous giveaways. Take care and Happy Holidays to you and yours!
Oh my!! What a wonderful giveaway! I think my heart would just burst with joy to win these precious gifts.
Have a wonderful Christmas!
Robin
Sandy from Chihuahua Flats writes: Oh no, Jack isn’t interested in fetching the ball anymore? That was so adorable. I told all my friends who adore animals like I do, about Jack fetching a ball. They couldn’t believe a cat would do that. Can’t believe what he’s doing with the rubber band either. Like you’ve said many times Susan, he’s just an amazing cat. Our tuxedo cat, Bootsie, looks almost like your Jack. Your Jack gets the cutest expression in his eyes when he’s wondering what you’re up to with your camera. I sit here & laugh at his antics. Our Bootsie is the King of the neighborhood cats. He struts around, staring at the kitties I feed each A,M. He’s already had his breakfast, but he wants the visitors to know that he’s King of the cats here at our house. The poor visiting cats who come each morning for breakfast, back off & let him eat the food I’ve given them. Honestly, what authority. I try talking to Bootsie about his bad manners, but he looks at me & follows me around as I work outside, all the while keeping his eyes on the visiting cats.
Two years ago, while in Savannah, I saw this stone statue of a girl with her hands out, perfect for a bird feeder. I thought I’d look for the statue in some of my gardening magazines when I got home. The statue wasn’t in any of my magazines, but this time of year I get zillions (meaning “lots”) of catalogs. While looking through one of the catalogs, I saw the statue. The statue is a famous sculpture by Sylvia Shaw Judson & is called “Savannah’s Bird Girl.” I just love it. It’s a bit on the expensive side so I’ve put off ordering it, at least until I pay for Christmas. One day after I get it, I plan on putting the Bird Girl in my garden surrounded by plants, hopefully attracting birds.
Our Grand Boys will be with us tomorrow & over the weekend to help us decorate. I made chili tonight, which I think they’ll be happy to devour as they’re trimming the tree & putting lights up. Chili just seems like a “natural” for tree trimming.
Each time you send out a magazine picture with an author who’s written a story, I look the book up. I saw “The Doctor” on the magazine cover on your blog, so I’ll look it up & see if it’s a good read.
For two years now, our daughter, who’s an excellent cook, has taken over our Thanksgiving dinner, trying to make things easier on me. She & I talked today about having Christmas dinner at her lovely home this year. I’m usually the Christmas dinner cook. I love doing it, but this year, my husband is very ill with cancer. Again, our daughter is trying to take a bit of stress out of my life. I love her for it, but this is the first year in all the years of our married life that I won’t be cooking Christmas dinner. Yet another ending in my life. I’ll do my best to accept our daughter’s gift gracefully.
As you enjoy this holiday season, remember what we’re celebrating. The birth of Christ is a very special day, not the “presents” but the “presence” of Christ in our lives. May He bless your homes with peace & love for one another. Sandy
You have one of the world’s best husbands. I am so impressed that he would make a real wreath to give to one of your “girlfriends”. He is just like my husband who would indeed do the same thing for one of my girlfriends. I hope I can win your drawing and I will be overjoyed.
Dear Susan…thank you again for another wonderful post and beautiful artwork…and for your generosity in always giving away things to us “girlfriends”!I loved your recent painting of the “seasons” lighthouse! …I am excited about your visit with Yankee magazine and look forward to seeing the article next year. I already get Yankee and love it! Happy decorating and baking! Thank you for everything, including your special gifts of bookmarks etc. that we can print out…Take care! :)……Donna from Montana
Love your decorations Susan! I just subscribed to Yankee magazine so I will have my copy next year! You inspire the creativity in everyone. I love that you appreciate tradition and all the little things that mean the most in life. I loved your Willard this month. I can really identify with your California Christmas, I have lived in the San Fernando Valley my whole life. I have always dreamed of a White Christmas.
Jack and Girl Kitty are so adorable!! He looks so cozy by the fire.
Happy Holidays!!
I grew up in Reseda and Woodland Hills, so I know where you are!
Love the kitty updates. Jack must have inherited your happy gene and Girl Kitty looks so sweet and grand on the old quilt. Joe’s greenery creations are lovely. I would be thrilled to bits to win the holiday giveaway.
Was feeling a little low so I thought how can I cheer myself up?? Yes my first thought on this freezing winter morning was to pop along to see Susan. My spirit lifted and was replaced by joy and excitement. Have a wonderful day xx
You too Janey, love to have you here!
Great job with the wreaths and garland!! Tell Jack to keep behaving! So cute!
What a beautiful wreath! And funny Jack, he always makes me laugh!!
I bought two of your bird cups, one of which I was going to send to my son’s girlfriend in the Czech Republic, but now I see this one and I think I might save the bird one for myself and get her this Christmas one! Hmmm… .yes, I think that’s a good idea!!
Your house looks so beautiful!! It’s going to be hard to wait a year to see it in Yankee Magazine!! And you reminded me to get out all my old Christmas books!!
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
Oh, I forgot to tell you how much a loved your latest Willard!! The little pictures you painted for it are soooooo adorable!!! The lighthouse, the little bird in the window, and the beautiful snowy house scene at the top!! *sigh* If you sold little original watercolor paintings, I would buy them!! Little – like 2×4 or 3×5! 😀
The 16 year old “you” is adorable!!
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
Ahhh, if I knew then what I know now!
And you’re still adorable!!!
OMG, Joe has risk LIFE & limb to decorate,if he didn’t have help from the local fire department with a ladder truck. Couldn’t a beautiful wreath on the door and some greenery around the door, The Wiliamsburg style, with maybe a spot light on the door showcasing the wreath, it would have been less risk taking. Goodness!!
He’s a wild man!
LOL!!
Willard has arrived. Thankyou so much.
Have a good day.
Good — so glad!
Thank you for your beautiful Emails…I always look forward to receiving them.
Merry,merry Christmas Susan…the house is beautifully decorated and inspires us all to do the same…went out yesterday and gathered some holly to put in my front window planters ..added some ribbon and voila! instant holiday!! Thank you so much for your inspiration…I am sure you are on Santas “nice”list!!! Merry christmas to you and yours!!
We are becoming Santa!
Joe never ceases to amaze me with his multiple talents and good heart!
Your home looks so lovely getting all decorated with Christmas. I love your blog posts and love to see all your helpful hints woven in so beautifully! Thank you for helping us to add just a little bit of extra special things to our homes!!
Missed (been taking care of Mom, no computer) my every mornin’ Susan Branch visit to start my day. It’s a wonder I could keep on goin’ all day! My dear husband had 2 wonderful, younger, friends/neighbor ladies help him get down Christmas totes from up high in the garage rafters, then he decorated for a meeting here Tuesday night! Not quite Joe’s style, but he tried & I cried when I got home last night…so sweet!! Great guys, our guys! My dear, terrific blog, as usual, love your words, and the pictures, I feel that warm fire & Jack on my legs – sigh! Thank you for your generous give away girlfriend! Love, Joanie
Oh Susan, you’ve given me inspiration for today… thank you!
Hugs!
So good to have you back. I can’t wait to read my Willard and I sent my mother in law one too. Looks like you are getting into the Christmas spirit. Everything is just beautiful.
Susan,
Everything looks so festive! Can’t wait to see your tree decorated. I think it is so clever to use your own greenery and Joe is very talented with wreath making. I am a cat and dog lover and always enjoy pet stories! Jack is darling. I think we must be related somehow because we have so much in common! Love the gifts you are giving away, you are so generous. Thank you.
Stephanie
Mmmm…lovely, Christmas post! Thank you so much for the generous opportunity! Many gorgeous blessings to you & yours….~H♥~
Jack is so darn cute and how wonderful of Joe to make such beautiful wreaths.
Home made is always more special then store bought.
Please enter my name in the draw if you are posting all the way to Australia and thank you for the recipes and lovely pictures you post on your blog.
‘Susan,
Loved the look around your home and the kitties are so cute! I would love to win this little giveaway, you’re very generosity is wonderful. I have just the perfect spot for Joe’s beautiful wreath, too! Thank you! ~Vonnie
Always look forward to your posts. Your decorations are beautiful. I’m a fan of natural decorations. In the past I’ve always looked to Colonial Williamsburg for ideas, but now I can rely on you, too.
Merry Christmas to you, Joe, and the kitties.
That’s a nice compliment!
Always nice and peaceful to come to your blog. It makes you take a deep breath and relax. I needed that is morning. Thank you, Susan.
Your posts make me happy. Just so full of joy and fun. Like sitting and drinking coffee with a friend.
OH and the wreath Joe made is spectacular. I haven’t had a real wreath since we moved from Maine years ago.
Have a lovely day Susan.
You too Kim!
I so love reading willard and your blog, it’s like we grew up together! Y ou make me feel like my decorating obsessions and quirks are perfectly acceptable, and maybe not everyone sees the magic in that. Thanks for being such a fun part of my life. You have also become such a wonderful connection for me and my dear friend Christine Furey who loves you as much as I do!
Hello to Christine too Pam … and yes, again, I have to say, quirky is the new normal! Maybe not as new as we think!
Another beautiful post!! As far as Jack and the bird tree are concerned……..give it time!! 🙂 He’ll discover it soon enough, when you least expect it. Every year, we put up a large Christmas village in our living room and for the first week or so, the cats ignore it. Then, inevitably, we come down one morning to wonder if a tornado struck the village……..trees knocked over, train cars derailed, snow strewn everywhere………no tornado, just the cats, making merry in the village!
Thanks for the chance to win that gorgeous wreath. The notebook and sweet mug were enough but the wreath really puts it over the top!
Oh good, something to look forward to! 🙂
I love to read your blog and Willard. It’s like visiting with an old friend! Congrats on the photo shoot, I finished my decorating early this year to throw a party for my students and clients. I can enjoy them even longer now! Thanks for taking the time to do all the links, paint the pictures, add the music and create the scene,I love it!
I saved your blog to read until this morning. My hubby and I are going to do some Christmas shopping and I just knew your blog would get me in the holiday and gift giving spirt. After reading it I know I made the right decision (enough though it took a lot of will power to wait) thanks to your wonderful way of sharing I am filled to the tippy top with Christmas spirt. Thanks Susan, once again you have brightened my day.
Susan…what an amazing giveaway! I did write a comment on the first day, but have yet to find it among your 2,000 comments (smile!) and I want to be sure my name is in Santa’s hat, so I’ve decided to write another one! (I know Vanna will only recognize one so it’s okay…)
Love to Jack…what a sweet boy! And ((hugs)) to Kitty!
Gert
Yes it is Gert! Hard to find anything in there right now!
Thank you Susan for being such a bright spot in my days! Thanks to you, my mantle has a M.E.R.R.Y…C.H.R.I.S.M.A.S in the making. Have you learned about making tiny bows with a fork? (Check youtube!) I put one on each letter. Sending a Christmas hug!
So cute. If I always remember to go “left over right, right over left,” that makes a perfect bow too, when you can’t do it with a fork!
I think this might be the best Christmas blog ever and I would be the happiest Susan Branch follower if I won your beautiful generous drawing! Thank you for everything you do.
Merry Christmas Susan and Joe ….and Jack and Girl Kitty. Love to check in with you!
Just joined on your blog. I do love it! Your blogs make my day.
I love amazing home made items. I do many in my shop. Your cup and the amazing wreath are awesome. Please put my name in so maybe, just maybe I can win.
Your blog is the first thing I look at in the mornings, it’s such a treat when you have posted something new. Thank you for having such a happy blog 🙂
I love your blog and all your Christmas home made ideas. Please enter me in the drawing.
Dee-light-full – – – these post are bringing the decorating spirit to our home. We are not decorating our home, we are loading up everything Christmas and treking down south to our vacation cottage this year, but that is not for another week – – so I am missing the little touches that bring cheer – – your site has really filled my cup! We are spending 2 weeks with our darling 5 year old Granddaughter – – – – Oh the joy! Such a magical time of life.
Merry Christmas Susan, and may God bless you REAL GOOD.
He does! xoxo Thank you Kathy!
Good Morning Susan, I have been a “fan” of your books and artwork for many years and now I have discovered your blog. Ah…what balm to my soul! Thank you so much for sharing your life so openly and letting your memories stir our memories. God bless you and yours during this special season!
Oh those dear, dear faces on your kitties! They are just the sweetest! It makes me want to run to the nearest SPCA and get one! 🙂
You have also once again inspired me to get a “move on” and start decorating my home for Christmas…… the swags and Joe’s wreath are so gorgeous!!! Thank you for your wonderful blog!
Merry Christmas and Many Blessings to you and your loved ones in the New Year!
I discovered your site recently through a girlfriend. Am really enjoying your art, your chat, and *squeal* your Peter Rabbit room!!! You inspired me to start collecting BP figurines. I have 3 so far to go on the shelf with my collection of the 23 Tales. Would love to enter the drawing. Thanks and Merry Christmas!!!
Oooh, good for you. I love mine even after all these years! I never get tired of them.
Over 2000 comments!! I was debating about adding another, but I just had to say how good Mr. Jack looks: his coat is so sleek and shiny and he’s filled out nicely since his kitten days. I think it’s possible that he’s content with his life. 😉
I sure hope so! If making other people happy is the secret to happiness, then I know why he looks content!
Good Morning Susan!
I loooovvvve your posts! I look forward to reading them (and re-reading over and over and over!!) everyday! When I read this one I promise I actually heard old sleigh bells ringing and could smell the Christmas cedar! Your posts always take me way back and I love that. YOU ROCK!! Thanks for sharing your gift of artistic expression with me (and the world!). Keep up the awesome work!
Merry Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties!
Suzi
Thank you Suzi, happy to have you here!
My Oliver Khat was wondering if Jack could call him to discuss deconstructing Christmas Trees and destroying presents. Oliver’s first Christmas (13 years ago) found him up and in the tree day and night. It was “so much fun” snipping the fir sap out of his fur – I kept explaining fur is not compatable with fir – but he never listened. It was his playground, he’d even climb up and sleep in the branches – all ornaments survived except for one red stuffed kitty that someone gave me. There was no smell to it but as I learned later in his life, Oliver LOVED red. People used to laugh at me when I told them but it was true – given two bowls of food, he’d eat in the red bowl; put down two new catnip mice, he would choose the red one; he actually “borrowed” one of my red socks from an opened sock drawer and it took me months to find it under a chair with a number of other red toys. Living with a smart, inventive, imaginative kitty is hard work for the “mommy”….
Love the cardinal, wish it was outside my window as I haven’t seen any this fall/winter season, wonder why.
No red birds for YOU! Love Oliver.
I love the wreath Joe made! I was just shopping yesterday for a wreath for my youngest son and new daughter-in-law to surprise them when they return from their honeymoon on Sunday. I just didn’t see the perfect wreath though, until I got your email and read your blog! Joe’s wreath would be perfect for their door 🙂
First time visiting your blog. Loved it! Whimsy and tradition together in one place makes me happy. 🙂
DEAR SUSANJUST REC. MY NEW WILLARD. THANKS. SO LOVE YOUR BLOG. I RECALL MY AUNT MARY MAKING BROWN BREAD IN A CAN. HAVE TO CHECK OUT IN STORE, I SO LOVE IT.
HAVE A WONDERFUL PHOTO SHOOT WITH YANKEE MAG. U MAKES US WANT TO GET STARTED ON OUR OWN DECORATIONS. WE LOVE JACK AND HIS PHOTOS, OUR GIRL CAT MISSY LOOKED A LOT LIKE HIM, SHE WENT TO CAT PARIDISE IN SEPTEMBER, SHE WAS 14.AND WAS IN A LOT OF PAIN AND HER HEALTH WAS DETERORATING THE LAST FEW YEARS. SHE WAS MY HUBBY ROY;S CAT UNTIL I JOINED HIM 6 YEARS AGO. THE GRANDKIDS ADORED HER, SO GLAD I HAVE PHOTOS OF THEM AND HER. SHE WAS A JOY AND WE MISS HER TERRIBLY.
LOVE YOUR DECORATING IDEAS, WE HAVE BIRDFEEDER OUTSIDE BY THE DECK OF OUR CONDO HERE IN SOUTHINGTON,CT. WANT TO GO VISIT THE PLACE U AND JOE WENT TO IN MOOSEUP,CT. ONE OF MY AUNTS HAD A HUGE TURKEY FARM IN ARK. WHEN I WAS GROWING UP. I AM 69 YEARS YOUNG AND HAVE 6 GRANDDAUGHTERS AND 3 GRANDSONS, SOME LIVE IN MASS. AND OTHERS OUTSIDE KS. CITY AND IN FLORDIA.
HAVE BEEN TO YOUR LOVELY NECK OF WOODS, AND WANT TO GO AGAOIN WITH 4 OF MY GRANDDAUGHTERS SOMETIME NEXT SUMMER. I WILL BE 70. LOVE LIGHT HOUSES, AND OCEAN AND AUTUMN. I AM FROM OKLA. IN THE FOOTHILLS AND GREW UP IN OZARKS OF ARKANSAS. CAME TO CT. IN 2000, MARRIED MY YANKEE FROM UPSTATE NEW YORK WHO HAS LIVE IN CT. SINCE EARLY 60’S/ SECOND TIME AROUND FOR US.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOUR FAMILY AND HOME FROM OUR HEARTS AND HOME.
ROSIE IN CT.
Sounds like a wonderful life Rosie! Stay warm, we are looking at 28 degrees this morning.
Lovely, truly lovely! Merry Christmas!
Hi, You all are such bright spot in our days. Merry Christmas to all there on the island from Texas. Looking forward to the article next year in the Yankee Magazine. I’ll have to subscribe!
I thank you, Susan, for your infinite inspiration! Every time I read one of your posts and/or Willard’s I take away something new. Not only do I LOVE what you do, but I have learned to see things in my own house differently. You bring out a creativity that I think I forgot I had, or worse, stopped making time for. This is a wonderful gift that you give. ♥ I did make a little banner for my daughter, not really Christmas. She is coming home from college this weekend for winter break, and she is so stressed out there, and so home sick. So I made her one that just says, “Breathe, You’re Home” and put it up in her room. Not original, but I hope she likes it. I just loved everything in this post, especially the generous give away!!! Wow! You’re the best! Thanks for always making this a bright spot in my day!
Sweetest thing, the banner for your daughter, she will feel so special!
Merry Christmas Susan and Joe! Today, I am spending the time with my two welsh corgi dogs, Riley, and Lori… We are baking, and wrapping till everyone gets home for dinner. God bless you , and all the joy that you bring to each of us.. and for sharing your precious talents! Oh yes, we made a few of the corgi bookmarks to give for Christmas, to our dear family and friends.. we laminated them , and attached a gold tassle to the end.. I know they’ll be treasured for years to come.. Thank you!!
Perfect Christi!
Love your website. So glad that I discovered it. It makes my day. Love Willard too.
I think I will have lots of company at my Weight Watchers meetings after we cook and taste, and taste and taste all the delish things we see and read about here…but as you said in a recent blog, ‘life is short and that’s just the way it has to be’ 🙂
🙂 Esther!
I enjoy your art work so much! I would love to display that wreath at my house!!
What a great give- a- way!! Merry Christmas Susan 🙂
I just love clicking on your musica and reading your blog first thing in the morning!
Thanks for the little advertisement for the brown bread. I saw it on the shelves at the grocery when I was a child and wondered what in the world could that be. Bread in a CAN! Never tried it. I will have to see if I can find it around here in my part of western PA. Merry Christmas!
Everything looks beautiful! Love Joe’s roping and wreath. How about a tutorial? I have been wanting to make my own but have no idea how.
I will ask him!
Joe’s wreath is so pretty, much nicer than the stiff ones for sale everywhere. Thank you for writing this blog. I love everything about it.
And I love doing it, so it’s a win-win!
Good Morning Susan,
Thank you for sharing your beautiful lovely home with us!! I’ve been a huge fan of you for years and just love everything you do! Hopefully someday I will meet you in person…that would be an extra special treat.
Have a blissfully blessed day~
Lisa
Maybe, when we go out and about to do book signings for the new book!
WOW! What a beautiful post! When I saw Joe’s wreath, I gasped, as it is so fabulous. He IS an artist and I didn’t realize that since mostly I’ve seen fine carpentry from him. Is he an artist by nature or has a lot of your talent rubbed off on him? And to have all that assorted greenery in your yard, that is remarkable. I have lived in houses which had some of those varieties but not all at once; now we live in a beautiful farm community with fields but no evergreens! Merry Christmas to Susan and Joe!
He is by nature. He can draw and paint also, although he doesn’t! He did it in school, but not since — I keep trying to get him to, but he’d rather do other things. Thank you Susan!
What a beautiful wreath Joe made! I just love to read your blog posts (and Willard) because they are entertaining as well as inspiring. You make me want to run right out and find supplies to make all sorts of things to decorate my home. I cannot wait to see your tree decorated this year (I recall last years tree was gorgeous, of course).
What a wonderful way to start the day! Thanks for your inspiration. Merry Christmas.
WOW….boy do you get alot of comments on YOUR blog ! I adore the little cardinal note pad and sweet mug and I would love to be the winner of that spectacular wreath too ! Your posts always get me in the mood to make my home just a little more homey and do just a little bit more for the holidays ….. thank you always for so much inspiration ! :o) Sue
Willard of December 2012 is most inspiring. Texas doesn’t enjoy snow very often and practically never for Christmas. When that white fluffy miracle floats down in our neck of the woods, we go crazy! I can understand your joy when you first experienced a New England Christmas. Also, I appreciate your talent and the excitement you feel for the small things, the ones often missed unless we look at things closely. Merry Christmas! Thanks for sharing your talent with the world.
Thanks for the lovely words, mesmerizing photos, and the sheer delight you bring to us, Susan!! My mom & I call each other when a new blog post is out or a new Willard sent. I’ve ordered a couple of surprises for her from your lovely webstore; got the last package last week and have a new order placed that should be delivered on the 10th. Would love love love to win the Susan Branch pretties!
Be sure to tell your mom I said Hello!
You are certainly putting us in the Christmas Spirit! I read your blog almost every day, Started pulling out my decorations once i saw yours from Michaels!
But I have to admit, I havent yet decorated my Beatrice Potter collection!
I love that!! From my family to yours, We wish you a Very Merry Christmas!!
The photos of the double windows remind me of the den in my grandmothers house! I live fifty miles from that town now. Yet, the memories of being enveloped by the love of our family are so vivid and wonderful that I often forget that the house had to be torn down several years ago. Great memories are such a blessing and a gift to each generation!
Your mention of the tin of fragrant brown bread brought back wonderful memories of my other grandma’s home which was always filled with the aroma of freshly baked cookies, loaves of bread, AND the world’s best ever cinnamon rolls made from the 1950’s Betty Crocker Cookbook recipe!
Merry Christmas to you!
You two are soooo talented!! And I especially love your Blessed Season Quote!
Merry Christmas to all ~
You are a very blessed woman! Thank you for blessing all of us with your gifts and talents — Joe’s too!
Thank you for a lovely give away. Wishing you happy holidays!
Dana Burton
Dear Susan,
Whimsical is one of my favorite words. Along with lollygag and felicity. 🙂
I just adore your blog. It’s wonderful and joyful!
Thank you.
LOVE lollygag! 🙂
Love, love, love! We’re hosting two Christmases this year, and one of Joe’s wreaths would dress up our house so beautifully! And the mug, and the little notebook- so sweet!
p.s. The little yellow guys are the minions from the movie ‘Despicable Me’!
Hi Susan,
Just received two of your 2013 Calendars in the mail… one for me and one for my best friend, Barbara. I have known her since kindergarten. In 2013, we will have been friends for 67 years. I thought we should celebrate, so I’m giving her your very special calendar to mark our Friendship Anniversary! Merry Christmas and have a wonderful New Year, too.
Happy Anniversary to you and Barbara, you are so lucky!
Merry, Merry Christmas to you and yours ! I’ve followed you for years, and feel as if I know you, and have been in your home – that’s how you make your friends feel ! I’d enjoy being your “winner” this year ! Thanks for Everything !
Susan, I too grew up with that same brown bread that my mom toasted and buttered – she’s been gone for 23 years but I still remember those days so happily! I love all you do and Willard brings such joy to me – thanks for the memories dear girl! Michele
xoxo Michele!
Susan, to have a husband that can “just” put together a wreath like that…. I know you know what a great “find” he is. One in a million!
I love the cup with the lid. I was thinking of buying one even though I don’t drink anything like coffee or tea. I thought hot chocolate would be great out of it!
Yes, or hot cider!