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
Dear Susan, Merry Christmas !! Loving the wreath and decorations !!
I love reading Willard anytime of the year but especially at Christmas. I now live in Florida but being from the midwest, I really miss the season changes and the cold and snow at the Holidays. Your words take me back and fill my heart with the warmth of home and Christmas. Thank you and Merry Christmas to you and Joe. Yes I would love to be entered in the drawing.
Susan, it cheers me up anytime I pause to look at your lovely blog. Thank you for sharing the warmth and beauty with us! And yes, of course I’d love to be entered in the drawing! Thank you!
In the busyness of this month I hadn’t checked your blog since the weekend so it was a special delight to find 2 posts for this week as well as a drawing. Your decorations so far are just a delight and I know the Yankee folks will be so impressed. Already I’m looking forward to receiving the 2013 Yankee in the mail. Thank you, thank you.
Hello Susan,
I’m playing hookie from my desk work to visit your website….and become inspired to get to decorating. But, alas, desk has to come first for awhile.
I would love to be in the drawing of that lovely wreath! Joe did such a great job. I wish we had those kind of hedges out here in Calif…..I’d try and do one myself. I’m still going to try for the striped straws and marshmello chain for the tree though. Wish me luck. Jack is sooo cute. We have a large black and white boy (15 lbs +) named mister. He too has a little mustache…..and is so charming and very talkative. I wish I could send you a photo. He was a stray….and landed here to our good fortune. Well, enjoy your decorating.
Cheers.
Jan from Northern CA
THAHK YOU for the opportunity to win a creation by Joe. I got interrupted while reading this post and didn’t get to the give away so it was delightful to get the non- post post this morning. I too had a Joe who was thoughtful, helpful and loving as is your Joe. It would be an honor to receive this special gift from a special guy and gal. I was so taken with the Christmas mug, that I did a bit of online shopping yesterday. And in anticipation of next years photos/article, I subscribed to Yankee magazine. I think I am becoming as big an admirer of you as you are of Beatrix Potter! Merry holidays to all.
Now that is truly saying something! xoxo
Thanks for the shot of inspiration. Sometimes I get Christmas “Burn-Out” and just sitting down to the computer and peeking at your blog helps!
Hi~~
Love visiting your home and seeing all the fun things you. Thank you for sharing.
A very Merry Christmas to you and Joe.
What a wonderful post today, I always enjoy them so much. I love the way your Christmas tree is always shaped the same way, I can’t wait to see it decorated I have put up 13 tress this year all with a different theme. I wish you could come and see them. Your art is an inspiration to my decorating.
I must look for brown bread in a can. I hope they have it in my hometown. It looks wonderful. So many gorgeous things to see on your blog, I look forward to every post.
I can’t tell you how much I love Jack and his cute face. Like he is always saying, “me?………..I didn’t do anything.”
I would so love to win the tea cup and note pad. It would fit right in with my Christmas kitchen and my 4 grandsons would think it is sooooo cool.
I really need the cookie receipe. I am hosting Pictionary this coming wed. night the 12th. Would love to have a new treat for them.
Happy holidays,
Star Johnson
Cypress, CA
I’ll try to get it up before Yankee comes on the 11th!
What a clever man that Joe is! I think I would faint from joy if I won this giveaway!!!
Susan,
I love your blog. I enjoy reading and seeing how you are decorating for the seasons & what delicious goodness you are baking. I love to decorate & bake for the season as well. We have similiar tastes. The wreath your husband made is beautiful and so natural with nature wrapped around it.
I so look forward to checking my emails for your post. I also enjoy your books. It’s been a difficult year, my 15 yr. old just finished up radiation treatment & my Mom passed away this past summer. Your blog is a refreshing lift for the spirit.
Oh Kathy, too much for one girl. I’m happy to have you here. Sending love xoxo.
It would be wonderful to sit by the fire drinking out of the Christmasy cup and writing a note to someone special. Joe’s wreath is beautiful and would look lovely on our log cabin door. Thanks for making days a little bit brighter !!!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from our house to yours.
Your house looks absolutely wonderful! I needed your post as I seem to be having a difficult time finding my Christmas spirit. Thank you for sharing with us!
What delightful treasures ~ thanks for your generosity! Your blog is such a wonderful treat ~ your life on the island is a delicious dream! Have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS! Blessings from the hills of Idaho, Cathy
Such a fun post! I’d love a chance at the giveaway.That has to be one of the prettiest wreaths.Warm Blessings!~Amy
Susan I love checking your web site to see if you have something new posted on your blog. I truly feel like I know you and refer to you as my friend Susan whenever I talk about you to my family. They all know you and still tease me about not winning your dessert contest back before you published “Sweets to the Sweet”. Maybe I will win this contest. I’ll keep trying if I don’t. Have a great Holiday Season!!
Peace & Love!
Well, you tell them I said HELLO!
I wanna win! I wanna win! I wanna win! (I’m not shy!) :O) xoxo Kay
Thank-you for all the cute Christmas ideas! I love the bird tree, I would like to do something like it! I am going to have to hurry and start looking for birds! Merry Christmas to all.
I haven’t been in the mood for Christmas this year. We’re having one of our warm Decembers down South (mid 70’s in the daytime) and I just haven’t been able to get that magical Christmas feeling. That is until I read yesterday’s Willard and the blog.
You transported me to your warm and cozy home. The snow, the fire in the fireplace, the decorations (love Joe’s natural wreaths and ropes!), the beautiful (even undecorated) tree, toasted brown bread, your sweet little collections…..ah, that’s just what I needed to put me in the proper mood. I may have to turn on the air conditioner, but I’m now ready to bake and decorate. Thank you Susan!
Nice to hear that Carol xoxo
This Christmas is a kind of hum-bug this year. My last little chick-a-dee has flown the nest and she even took the cats. The house is oh so big and nary a Christmas decoration in sight! These posts have told me to shake it off and get decorating and baking, even tho we won’t have snow, it’s been in the 80’s out here in AZ. What I wouldn’t give for a cold crisp night and a nice mug of tea by a fire 🙂 Susan, stand outside tonight and take in a big breath of winter for me. Merry Christmas to all!
Go get a kitty. That’s the answer! A kitten to tear things apart and make you laugh!
Here’s a thought: My husband and I stopped at a little chocolate shop today to purchase some Christmas gifts and buy local. I noticed a small sign they had that gave me a chuckle. It said something like: I’m not chubby, I’m just chocolate enhanced. 🙂
Chocolate enhanced!!! That’s so cute!
Dear Susan,
I so love your blog. When I see a new message, I feel as if I am getting to visit with an old friend. So I’ll put on the kettle and have a nice cuppa with you as I read along. Henry (our 17 lib. cat) lies on my feet as I sip my tea and read along.
cheers
maggie
Had no idea you had a blog. Been using your cookbooks for years. Many recipes are now our family traditions, especially Orange Watercress Salad with my ham on Christmas Eve, Christmas Coffee Cake for breakfast, and your delicious and easy Rum Truffles anytime! Was searching for new recipes and found your blog. Adorable pictures. Really put me in the Christmas mood 🙂
So glad you found me Susan, nice to see you here! Loving the magical connection of the internet!
I love the bird in a cup! I’m going to Michaels after work and getting me a flock! I’m going to let them nest in our Christmas tree, in my china hutch and in my kitchen and anywhere else they would like to live! I don’t think my Westie’s will mind, although like your kitty’s they love chasing birds. Never caught one and I’m not sure what they’d do it they did. They had a squirrel walk right up to them and chatter, then sped off and they just had a look of bewilderment on their cute litte white fuzzy faces! I love all your work!!!
I remember the brown bread and thought it was such a treat. Back in the day when food was scarce at times, anything sweet was an ah ha moment.
I love reading and seeing your wonderful trip to England. I went there regularly each Thanksgiving; but now that I am retired, alas, I have not been back….so you take me there and I enjoy everything. I put myself into the photos and see things that are familiar.
Of course, your Jack is truly a treasure with his beautifully painted face and can’t leave out Girl. Thanks for always bringing some sunshine into everyday life. Bonny C.
Thank you for the “gift” that each and everyone of your post are! There is such anticipation everytime I open one! Willards are extra large packages! :)Christmas all year!
So very appreciated~
Very Merry Christmas and blessings in the New Year!
I also grew up on Brown Bread. I have been searching the local store shelves for such a long time to no avail. I lost my Mom, Dad, and one of my Sisters (all two months apart) three years ago and have been trying to grasp at all the Mommy Memories that bring me such comfort, especially during this time of year. Brown Bread is one of them and thanks to you, dear Susan, I can taste that wonderful treat once again. I love your blog, Willard, and everything Susan! Thank you so much for sharing your life and talent with us all.
Too much all at the same time, so sorry! Yes, I know what you mean about holding on to the memories!
The challenge with a new house is that the landscaping is not yet to the point of having enough to prune to make a wonderful (or even a scanty) wreath or swag.
)-;
(Maybe I could go to my old house and beg some cutting from them – hmmmmm.)
If my mister ever made me a garland I’d fall over dead – and if he made me a wreath I’d fall over dead twice! What a keeper you’ve got there! Happy Christmas!!
You are too funny Nan!
I love the cup & saucer…
Your watercolors inspire me to paint!
Susan,
I love reading your blogs. You give me so many great ideas. I can’t wait to bake some of your cookies.
Cheers to you and Joe during this blessed season of CHRISTmas! Your blog brings pure joy to my life. My sister called to chat with me from Colorado, as she often does while driving as she lives in the country. After telling her I love her, I told her I had to go as I just made a cup of tea and was sitting down to your blog. She wishes she was, too!
Fun! Please tell her I said a special hello to her!
Love being sent to you d Joe during this blessed season!
Oh, that scrumptuous Brown Bread – I thought there was going to be a recipe,
and then I saw that it came all prepared, right out of a can. Wonder if I can find it in California – if it’s available in my little “neck of the woods”, our
family will be having a fabulous little treat during the holidays. Thank you!
Can’t wait to see your tree….I’m waiting for computer “smell-a-vision”!!
Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack!
Wow, you have TONS of comments to read this time!! I’ve not been in the holiday mood this year, and would gladly let it pass, if it weren’t for family. So, thank you for getting me to think about Christmas, and all the good things that come with it.
I finally found my Christmas kitten last month! She is a little tiger stripe with beautiful little kitten face and markings. My boy cat Moochie (the one that also plays fetch) now thinks he is her mother! He gives her baths, and worries when he can’t find her. It’s just so cute to watch. Even my crusty mountain-man husband is very entertained by all the action and antics going on here! My older girl kitty, just watches from a distance and looks at me with eyes that say, “What were you thinking?”
Your house and decorations are beautiful. Tell Yankee Magazine to expect about 3000 new subscriptions. They will love you!
Love the sound of your new kitty and how she is fitting in! My Girl Kitty has the same reaction as your Moochie!
Oh Susan!! I wish you could see all the fun around our house. We have 5 trees!!! I think you would love them. I would just explode if I was the won to win your giveaway, but it would be an explosion of happiness!!!! The best kind!!
Much love & hugs to you & Joe & the kitties too!!
Laura
Five! xoxo
Susan,
Thanks for the give-a-way. I know you love Jack, but really, one of my kitties can tell time!!!
Your house is looking great for Yankee.
If I don’t win just send Joe to help me decorate :0).
This year we will Christmasing in NYC, so no decorating here for us this year.
I do love your lovely home and think about how cozy and wonderful it must smell.
Thanks for the chance to win and have a Blessed Christmas
winning this would be a sign
I love the wreath! Your home looks so inviting!
What a great post, missed reading yesterday. You make the Christmas
spirit come alive with your decorations. And that wreath Joe made would be
beautiful on anyone’s door! Thank you for inspiring us to try and make
a
Susan Branch…. you are a dose of Prozac! Your joy is contagious, your observations about life and people are so poignant, and your blog is a gift each and every day!!!
And no side effects, except perhaps a few pounds! 🙂
Susan…I haven’t thought about brown bread for so long…it is going on my grocery
list today! We just got home from a 10-day trip and your “in-between post” has really started my Christmas happies! I’m trying to get a to do list done this afternoon so that I can pull out some of my favorite santas and snowmen from their 11 month nap and make our home festive and cozy! I would love to win this lovely collection of whimsy… 🙂 Thank you and Joe for everything…your blog is such a delight to read.
Merry Christmas!
Hi, Susan
I’m leaving this in hopes I MAY have a chance at the drawing. I would be sooo happy. I have a LOT of your books and read them sipping tea out of my blue and white pokadot cup with teapot from you. I love it.. later..enjoy…Gail
What a fun giveaway. I love the holiday season, the food, music, decorations, feeling in the air. You have a beautiful setting for such a fun holiday.
This was such a cheery blog, and a true feast for the eyes! I love the updates about your kitties! I can’t imagine life without mine! We’re a retired Coast Guard family and it just never felt like ‘home’ until the kitties joined us and claimed the sunny spots! And speaking of spots: that set is adorable! Polka dots are just so HAPPY, don’t you think? 🙂 I love the cardinals, too- we have THREE pairs hanging around our feeders this winter!
Your cute Christmas book is the first thing I put out every year, and now I need to make some pretty banners to hang up to go with it! 🙂
Merry, merry Christmas to you & Joe!
I am new to your blog, although not to your books. Thank you, you inspire me!
Glad to have you here Janet!
Absolutely love all of the decorating that you’re doing. Gets me totally in the mood for Christmas and what a beautiful wreath that Joe made! I hope that I’m doing this right to get my name in the drawing. 🙂
Sonya Hewes
Susan your blog is magical. You are such an inspiration and reading about Joe and Jack and Girl Kitty, and the wonderful details you bring to your home, warms my heart. Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones.
Dearest Susan,
I am writing again because I’ve changed my name. Merry Christmas (THE cat) and I used to write under the name Elaine. But in a fit of divine inspiration I remembered all my e-mails sent to friends are under “ElFe” because of my love of Christmas (also the first two initials of my name). The clock in my kitchen plays Christmas carols all year on the hour year round.
I MAY also be the only one you know who, remodeled her house, to include a closet just to house a decorated Christmas tree in all its glory. That way I can enjoy it anytime I feel the need for a burst of Christmas cheer– I just pull it out on the wonderful stand a friend made for me and plug it in!
As you can see I really may be an elfe–and you, bless you, are a continual source of so joy much inspiration (even elves flag sometime, you know). So many felicitations of the holiday season; and may you long continue to be the blessing you are in so many lives.
Love/Hugs,
ElFe
Well, you are perfectly named! I love your secret closet!
2,317 comments. No, I’m not behind. 😉 Thank you, Susan, in the first place for having another wonderful giveaway (the darling mug, and a wreath made by the darling Joe and darling Susan, who could ask for more?) and in the second place for extending the contest entry time. I needed it this time. Life got busy inspired by Susan Branching, putting up the tree and decorating it, and adding special festive touches to the house all to the tune of Marshmallow World ringing in my head. I’ve not had a chance to read all the comments from the Girlfriends and I miss that. I always learn something I need to know, and popping in just long enough to read a few isn’t the same as savoring each one. I love hearing about all the different ways we each celebrate life.
By the way, Susan, I’ve put up my little shotgun shell tree in the kitchen again this year, but I’m adding more birds. Just my little joke–the birds win. 🙂 (Jingle bells, shotgun shells, rabbits all the way…)
Thanks for all the inspiration you give to us to make our lives a little happier. I heard a brain specialist/scientist talking about how to have a super brain on PBS the other night. He said having happy thoughts make our brains grow new cells (or was that synapse) at any rate, being happy is good for our brains and helps ward off dementia. And he also said we should not be multi-tasking, we should be enjoying the moment. And that creativity is good for our brains, too. So there we have it.
Merry Christmas to you and yours from me and mine
Well, if that’s all it took, I would not worry about the girlfriends on this blog ever!!! What good news! Thank you Linda!
I love this time of year, the stories, the traditions and love. Thank you for sharing some of those with us, your friends. We can feel the love all throughout the year.
Some of your traditions have now become my family’s traditions. May God bless you, Susan.
Arlinda
PS: After this post, I’m going to google “roping”. The hubby has homework to do in the yard this weekend. 🙂
Kisses
Hey Susan,
wow….first of all I am not sure why this blog and Willard went to spam….Hope I did not miss the drawing…JOE…I know you heard it all…but what a great guy you found on that Island all those years ago….you two do wonderfulthings together….and have fun….I know your days in So. Calif….I related, they were
my growing up days as well….
I had to have Tea with both these blogs….as you did….wish I had one of the
Choc. Chip Cookies or the Brown Bread with it…But settling for Chocolate.
The house looks wonderful…all of it…Peter Rabbit and his friends…Yankee
should be lucky they chose you….again, I have met you 3 times, and your mom
once….but never Joe….I should be so Lucky….I hope I really do get lucky this time with the drawing…
I tell everyone….one, and there are many more great things you have said…but one is Life is Short….Eat Dessert First….(and sometimes I do)…I let my little grandkids do it also….Have a good Month.xo
Carol O. in So. Calif. with your Red Toile Gravy Bowl….
There are controls on everyone’s computers that stop certain things from coming in … there should something there that will allow you to allow Willard!Joe is usually with me, maybe lurking in the background, and if it’s a bookstore, he might be shopping. Yes, maybe next time! Aha, the red toile gravy girl! 🙂
Hi Susan,
I am a loyal fan, SB book owner, blog and Willard reader, but rarely take the time (who has enough?!!) to comment. I love the little jolts of inspiration I get from you and your art! Thank you for that. Banners for my daughter and me will be made this weekend!
I laugh at your pictures of Jack because he reminds me so much of my mustachioed 12 lb Maine Coon tuxedo – every bit as sweetly goofy at 6 years old.
My fingers are crossed that Vanna picks my name. What a great collection of Christmas goodies!
Cheers!
Virginia
Hi Susan. Can you answer a question please? What is the significance of the pears in your wreath? Is that “your” tradition or an American tradition. I’ve not seen it before. And you mentioned Christmas apples – again same question.
Like you, we love our fresh Christmas tree, with the lovely smell of pine throughout the house. Living in the suburbs here in Sydney we go to the local florist and choose our tree from all those leaning up against the display wall, then gently manoeuvre it into the car and bring it home. It is a battle to get it through the door with a dog and cat trying to help 🙂 We always cut/saw about an inch or two off the bottom of the trunk and rest in water for an hour or so for the tree to soak up water and refresh it. This way it lasts longer inside the house (yes, we also put water in the container).
Happy Christmas to you all.
Oh that’s interesting, I guess it is a tradition, not sure why, apples and pears and really, fruits in general! We do all the exact same things to our trees as you do! Have you ever stuck oranges with cloves, make little patterns on them … we do that, pile them in bowls because they smell so good.
Yes I have done the oranges decorated with the cloves, however because it is so hot down here at Christmas the oranges tend to dry up very quickly in the bowl once the skin has been broken. It makes a lovely aroma though.
We now use solar powered Christmas lights now to decorate our garden and around the yard. This is great because we don’t have to worry about the power leads. Long days of sunlight mean that the lights will actually stay lit throughout the night and then re-charge again during the day, very pretty.
Very good. Everything here is LED now … which is interesting, they are doing a much better job with the colors, and the power use is cut down to nothing, but not as nothing as yours!! 🙂
I believe the reason for the pears & apples at Christmas, is they are the fruit in season during that time of year. My mom used to put a mandarin orange (& various nuts) in our stockings because in Northern California they are also in season.
I have done the same for my kids. Ahhhh traditions!
Hi Susan,
I love your nice long blogs, I get totally wrapped up in them. You really should write a book, your way with words is so wonderful….You have a gift!!!! I hope your holidays are filled with warmth, love, laughter, friends and lots of goodies to eat..Happy Holidays from Buffalo New York Anne
I love your kitties and all your pretty Christmas decorations. Thank you for sharing!
Love the wreath Joe made and the way it has been decorated – so classy! I would love to have one in my home. (Hint to Vanna: pick my entry!) Enjoying all your blogs with the heartwarming pictures of your home as you decorate for Christmas. Thanks for being there, Susan.
I’ve been wanting to post a comment here for awhile but, I must admit, the drawing got me motivated!! I LOVE your blog, and over this past year, I’ve slowly been getting my hands on your books…love them too! I’m even going to get my mom hooked on you too – LOL…I’m giving her the “Days” book/journal this Christmas. I know she will love it. (I have one too but I haven’t been able to bring myself to write in it! It’s so beautiful!) Anyway, I know you are busy…just wanted to say that I love your work and looking at your blog always makes me happy, even on a bad day! Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Girl, and Jack! (I love kitties too and I also have a bird tree!)
Nice to meet you Tara!! Tell your mom I said Merry Christmas!
Hello Sue,
The kitties, the decorations, plus the whimsy guys too, along with the beautiful wreaths are so beautiful. I have had a busy week so am just getting on now. I Thank You so much for sharing all you do with all of us! Have a wonderful day!:)
Hugs&Smiles Barb
I always look forward to reading and savoring your blog…<3
Love the Wreath. Count me in.
Love everything you do!!
Happy decorating, Susan and Joe! There’s so much beauty in nature although here in the Midwest, our nature is so dry so you really have to hunt for color. Fortunately, my oldest daughter has two holly bushes in front of her house and she lets me cut as much as I want every year so red and green await me there. Your creativity inspires me so much but you also remind me to sit back and enjoy the beauty of Christmas, friend and family. Every day I listen to Christmas music and watch the great Christmas movies on Hallmark or TMC whenever I can. Thanks for sharing – your blog is my absolute favorite thing to read to remind me that I will get to Cape Cod one day.
Can’t wait for the Yankee magazine article – so excited for you and Joe!
Happy Holidays,
Linda Trokey
christmas is not just a holiday it’s a state of mind
wishing you and yours a merry christmas and a happy new year
Hmmm, a wreath by Joe?! Now, that’s too good to pass up!
LOVE the bird tree—soooo cute!
Oh, my dear Susan, I always think you couldn’t possible top your last blog and you’re always proving me wrong! I really look forward to each and every entry. I just read a few of the posted comments and had a good laugh reading the one from buffalo New York Anne saying you should write a book. I agree you definitely do have a gift, but somebody please tell her you HAVE written a book………actually many books (I have given many as gifts and many have a permanent home with me) and other items to showcase your talent/creativity/ gift.). Keeping my fingers crossed to win Joe’s wreath……….anything Joe makes would be a treasure! Thank you for the chance!
Elaine
LOL xoxo Elaine!
Your blog posts always make my day. My daughter and I always stare at your pictures of the cats and say “Awwwwwwwwww.” So glad that you are one of my “girlfriends!”
What a great and generous give away. The wreath is beautiful and reminds me of the ones my mom used to make years ago. I love reading your blog, reminds me that there are people who grew up happy, found love, and live a beautiful and abundent life. Thanks for the insparation.
Susan – I have your calendar hanging over my kitchen sink and think of you every day as I do my kitchen dance; washing dishes, or veggies, draining pasta al dente’ or just gazing out the kitchen window at my roses. This year, on my Christmas tree, I have put last year’s SB Christmas ornament on my large Santa Tree topper and he wears it proudly as an amulet of Christmas cheer.
I am soon going to make my annual gingerbread christmas tree bundt cake in the pan my Mom got for me from your webstore several years ago. I am so excited that I found star shaped birthday candles in assorted colors at my local grocery store and they will be the tree toppers to my cake. I can’t wait to light them! Thanks for making my life merrier! -Karen England
I really enjoy reading your blog. Your house looks great!
Dear Susan, I found The Vineyard first, back in 1976, and then found you! You both are magical and bring such joy to those of us who are so blessed to find you. You remind us, your girlfriends, to take time and enjoy each other with thoughtful expressions of love. Have a very merry and joyful Chritmas. God bless.
It is delightful to slowly go through your Willard and blog and catch all the love that goes into them.Thank you for all the great quotes and ‘little pictures’ and tiny details. I love all the animals and whistling birds.
Merry Christmas to you and Joe and your four legged children who, no doubt, wear the fuzzy britches in the house.
Elizabeth Roderick
They wear the fuzzy britches!
Fuzzy britches! My new favorite!!
Oh, yes, please! Merry Christmas!
Happy Decorating! I love reading your blog posts and am very, very happy to have rediscovered you here. Plus you have my childhood stove in your kitchen and I love looking at it again in your posts. (Well, not the actual stove but the exact same one!) Happy Holidays!
Happy Holidays!!! How sweet of you to send out yet another gift! I hope you get a chance to watch all of the delightful Christmas movies—one of my personal favorites being, A Christmas Story=)
Off to bake some blueberry chocolate-chunk scones and play carols. ‘Tis the best time of year!
Oh my gosh, B&M Brown bread! I had the ONLY working mom as a child of the fifties. As a treat she would toast (canned bread) as I called it for breakfast as a quick treat before running out the door for work. I had completely forgotten about it until I read your blog. I have to get it, my mouth is watering and I can actually smell it toasting. You’re so right … it’s gets chewy as it toasts! Oh so yummy. Thanks for the memory.
Good for your mom, that was so brave in those days! And hard, just like it is now.
Hi Susan,
Thank you for taking the time to write your blog especially at this busy time of year. I look forward to reading it every time! Please keep the pictures and stories about Jack coming…my husband scans the posts, stopping only if Jack is featured!
Heartfelt appreciation, Helen
Tell him Jack says HI!
Luv the way you do Christmas!
Hi Susan! I just want to hug and squeeze Jack AND you darling jack-of-all-trades of a husband! Both are fabulous! Thanks for the reminder on your giveaway. If my head wasn’t attached I wouldn’t know where I left it! 🙂 The cup and saucer could not be sweeter…nothing is happier than polka dots or SPOTS as they say in England. The little red bird notepad is darling too! Peace, Love, and Joy…Happy everything! Cheerio!
I too had the brown bread for special occasions growing up. Can’t wait to go out and find a can and try it again
As always your blog is a treasure. I loved your story about brown bread. It triggered a wonderful memory that I had totally forgotten. What a nice Christmas present!
I always look forward to your blogs and Willards and I love the music you choose to go with them! I was inspired by your home-made garland and I made one for my kitchen window too! Thank you for the inspiration and I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year to come!
Hi again Susan and Elaine,
I’m sorry I sounded a little behind times… I certainly know you have written many books, I meant like a novel, something that I feel you have so much inspiration in your life that there has to be a wonderful story in there. Once again…..Happy Holiday Anne
OH, I think I knew what you meant … yes, I need to get brave enough to do that, and your comment was wonderful to hear — because I DO have a story I would like to tell someday! Thank you Anne!
Susan,
Your zest for life is truly an inspiration! Have a wonderful Christmas!
Young Jack always looks full ON with those wide kitty eyes. And the tree is beautiful! I love a fat, scented tree. Ours just has the lights on it right now, and every year I think I would be happy if that were the only decoration! My daughter has just moved back home to commute to grad school, bringing her cat with her, so I’m having to get used to all the kitty behavior — and she is having to get used to making a quick getaway when my big dog gets a motion to growl ferociously and charge, though it’s all a big show to demonstrate “his house”; otherwise he wants to sniff her and they get along, if rather cautiously! And I so love “The Months” poem. It’s illustrated in my cherished Bumper Book, and I read it all year long. Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Jack, and Girl Kitty!
Hi Susan!
What a wonderful giveaway you’re having! I love everything in it! And something homemade, too! LOVE the wreath Joe made! Thanks for the chance for one of us girlfriends to win such a nice prize. Your home looks so wonderfully decorated, can’t wait to see your tree once it’s all lit up and beautiful! Jack is so cute!! I was wondering, is he and Girl de-clawed? My two cats are scratching up my favorite chair! 🙁 Just wondering if yours are de-clawed or if you have some way to discourage that kind of behavior?? No matter how naughty mine are, I can’t help but wanna kiss their cute faces! They’re being good girls with my tree, thank goodness!!
No, I don’t really love the idea of declawing, for me anyway. Girl is not good with the furniture, but that is my fault, because I finally got the message and realized that a new kitten needs TWO special things in the house … a cat box and a scratching post. If you don’t start them when they are little, it’s hard to get them on when they are older. Girl just looks at it disdainfully, while Jack fully embraces it and sees it as his very own big toy and uses it all the time.
Good Evening…..well, itis here..in good ‘ol Pa….7:12p.m….and Brrrrr..chilly out…we went from 67 degrees on Tuesday…to in the high 30’s today……Hoping we have snow for Christmas..took a bunch of pictures of my Christmas tree tonight..and posted them on my fb page..an annual tradition..HA! HA!….. Christmas, my favorite time of the year…next to Autumn. I love ur blog Susan!….always a delight!!….Thankful ur into vintage and traditions….or we would never have becomefriends!! lololol……..Can’t waite to purchase the next yankee mag…to read ur article and see the pic.s…..would that be January’s addition??????…….ur blog…just made me want to put my slippers on..and grab some madagascar vanila tea…and snuggle in front of t.v. set..lololo Night Susan!!!!!
It won’t be until NEXT Nov-Dec issue! It’ll be a nice surprise then because we will have forgotten all about it by then! Night Davett!
Merry Christmas, Susan!
Susan, You inspire and comfort me. Blessings to You and Joe this Holiday Season and Always. “Come Home, Your Heart is Here” /cs
Hi Susan,
I really enjoy your blog and receiving the Willard letter. Thank you for sharing your life with us. I remember the brown bread growing up, it is so good toasted with butter. Have to introduce my kids to it. Can’t wait for your chocolate chip cookie recipe, those are my family’s favorite!! Looking forward to next years Yankee Christmas issue, living in Connecticut I enjoy the magazine. I love Joe’s wreath, so creative. I wish you and Joe a very Merry Holiday Season. Nancy
Thanks Nancy! You too!
Merry Christmas Susan! You make my day with your blog posts.
Thank you !!!!! with Christmas Bells added, for such lovely blogs and a CHARMING Willard. I have been singing Kitty Cats Christmas and will make copies of the cd for my feline loving friends. I cant wait for my new calender to arrive , i kept the 2011 , the dec homage to Tasha Tudor was lovely , and great for decorating up a wall. I have ordered The bishops wife, and Bell Book and Candle from our local library they are wonderful holiday films.
Merry Christmas from Winnipeg
ps love the tea towel from England!!!!!
What a beautiful mug! My daughter loves coffee more than any other person I know, so if my name is the lucky one, she’ll be getting a pretty new mug for her java.
You’re so generous, not only the mug but the notepad AND the wreath! Giving feels good but I have to say, receiving isn’t so bad either!
Season’s Greetings! 🙂
Hello again..I took a quick look at ur vintage finds…u have a gravy boat and creamer..”Regency” white….I have that set!..wow! i was surprised to find the gravy boat was worth 43.00..amazing…my Aunt Eleanor had the entire set….way back in…the 1940’s..maybe early 50’s…but, I think it was the 40’s…and she then gave them to her sister..june…then june gave them to my mom…and then i inherited them….unfortunately..not all the pieces ar there anymore..SAD!! =(….. i only have the milk pitcher the gravyboat, creamer,and several different size platters..one plate..and some serving bowls for veges….my Aunt used these as her good…holiday china…because it went with every decor and in those days…that was thrifty thinking…..hers originally started out as a 12 piece service…i often think….i should look up on the internet…and try to replenish the set again….little by little………I’m 42….and would love to beable someday hand down the entire set….thankyou for sharing..ur love of all things old and cherished…
I’ve been a Yankee subscriber since 1961 when I first moved to New England; my heart is still there! It will be so good to see an article about you, Miss Susan, in the magazine my sons still call “Rankee” because they used to make the “Y” look like an “R” on the cover! Back in Michigan now, and it’s home, but I do love Yankee country!
oh! p.s….plus i swear…a dozen..cup saucers!!!!!!!..please tell me how in the world did that happen..a doz. saucers n no cups! ??lolololololololololo so for now they sit in my china cabinet awaiting mates..lololo
this my lucky day being introduced to your blog! love it and predict many happy hours enjoying it. the mug is adorable! and the bird tree is just too cute. merry christmas to you all and keep up the good work!
Welcome to the neighborhood Jane!