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
Love what an amazing and talented job Joe did on that greenery! Pat, pat:) The only green stuff I have is a rosemary bush. Funny I bought it 8 years ago as a little trimmed Christmas tree down here….also thought the branches smelled like pine. Couldn’t throw it away so planted it – ha, it is a bush now, love the smell when i trim it.
We will be going up to MN for Christmas and I sure hope there is snow on the ground. Your house is adorable – so festive and lovely. Had to grin from the opening shot of “sweetie pie” to the end:) i love polka dots, cups, saucers, green wreaths, etc. etc 🙂 TOO!
Love that the little house is going back on the stove. Re the rubber binders – wow, we were told they were very dangerous for cats when we had our sweet pets. Of course, Jack is NOT a cat:) Cookies sound delish! Have a super fun creative day. xxxooo
Rosemary is for remembrance and would be wonderful in a wreath! I think you’re right . . .thin rubber bands are dangerous, but these are so fat, he couldn’t swallow them.
If I lived in your neighborhood I think I’d sneak around your house and look in all the windows, just like a kid would do in a candy store window, to see all the ‘whimsy’. It looks like it could make anyone feel just like a kid again and I love it!
LOL Cathy!
Hi there! I found your site a few weeks ago and look forward to popping over to see what you are up too. I have been able to use some of your ideas in our decorating. Thank you.
Susan, you have been such an inspiration for many years. I just recently came across your blog and I can hardly wait to see what’s new in your day. Thank you so much for sharing your ideas. I love the giveaway – that mug is adorable. Keep spreading the joy!
Joe has inspired me to go home and look around my yard to make a wreath or at least some homemade garland. Love your bird tree, I remember it from last year and it makes me want one of them so bad. It is absolutely adorable – almost as cute as Jack and Girl!!!!
Beautiful wreath & garland – Joe did a great job! Our family started decorating on Sunday and we still have a little bit left but should be finished tonight. I love being the first one up in the early morning hours just taking in the sight of the tree all lit-up. I have been doing a lot of reflecting back on Christmases past – to remember that magic through the eyes of my son as a little boy – the excitement and anticipation of Santa coming, leaving the cookies, milk and carrots out for Santa and the reindeer. I miss those days, my son is a teenager now and doesn’t see the magic anymore. Oh, how I wish I could get that back. I have the great memories though – and they sure do make me smile!
Again, thank you so much for inviting us into your home and your day-to-day life! I feel like I am part of your little family for a few minutes and it is the most wonderful thing! I love your kitties, the remembrances of your childhood, and your sweet Joe. How lucky you are and how lucky we are to have you. I look forward to your blog postings and Willards. They just make my day brighter and more cheerful. Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I loved, loved, loved this post! Joe is amazing and then to learn that he will make your lucky winner a wreath was too much for me. I would be happy with the cup and notebook. You have inspired me to bring a pair of scissors along on my afternoon walk with the dogs so I can “borrow” some greenery for decorating. Looking forward to Willard! Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful home with us.
Susan, your house is charming! It’s like you and Joe are family…oh and the kitties too.cant wait o see what happens next
Love
Pat
I do hope you know we are going to “borrow” you ideas. 😉
As soon as I’m offline, I am going to find two of my sweet little teacups and put a bird in each one… SO cute!
Borrow away Brenda! xo
Hi Susan.
I love the giveaway for this month…..I would love a fresh wreath and the cup and saucer are adorable!!!!! Your home is looking very festive, I look forward to your blog it always cheers me up.
I love all your Christmas decorations! I have been working on knitting a few gifts for my family. Have a lovely day!
I love to start my day off by reading your blog. I have enjoyed your books for many years. You are always so uplifting and just put a smile on my face. Thank you for sharing the gifts you have.
You are so nice to say that Jackie!
I LOVE the wreaths and swags that Joe made. Don’t think we have Chinese and English boxwood growing here, or holly, for that matter. But they really look nice and are “our style”, too! Jack is cute about the rubber bands but be careful he wouldn’t decide to try eating one and causing a bad problem…He is a handsome kitty as well as cute but I’m not sure I’d love him to rub against my leg…with my “cat-a-phobia”… LOL! 🙂
I have always wondered why we don’t have holly in MN and WI, or just not so much. I see tons of it on the East Coast.
Hmmm, I don’t know. Seems like cold is cold!
They sell beautiful English Boxwoods in Yorktown, VA. I hope to get some next spring.
If we weren’t in this townhouse, I’d do some research and try planting some just so we could make our own swags and wreaths. My BFF Sandy in Attleboro was telling she made a boxwood wreath with a women’s group at church…between she and your blog, Susan, you are inspiring me to get going on decorating though our snow has melted and it doesn’t look like December at all! 🙂
Pat. shhh. but old graveyards are wonderful, and when you “prune” — you are being of service, if you do it neatly. xo
Susan,
Thanks for all the beauty and inspiration you provide! Pictures of Jack just make my day even more complete!
Thanks for posting an update on the beloved Jack. He is exceptional. The wreaths and garland Joe made are absolutely beautiful. Please send Joe over to my house when he is done at your house.
Love, love, love your decorating! Also would love the give-away!! Great job on the wreath Joe!!
Susan, you are such a gift! You are one of those rare people who can make total strangers (us) feel like the closest of friends and most welcome guests in your home – it is so welcoming, festive, and warm any time of year. You inspire me to make my home the same for those in my own little corner of the world. Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Girl Kitty, and Jack 🙂
That’s cuz we have so much in common! 🙂
good morning to you all…well it doesn’t feel much like our usual december weather here on the shores of lake erie…more like spring, but i love this warm interlude before the cold winds of winter. susan i liked the idea of using pebbles that you found and the moss for the bulb forcing….i like to force flower bulbs during the winter too….loved the wreaths that joe put together.thanks for sharing and have a great rest of the day
I absolutely Love reading your blog. Can’t wait to read it! You always inspire me get things done and now this morning I will start decorating for the holidays! I would love a nice cup of tea in that cup while enjoying one of Joes wreaths. Thanks again for all you do for me. Debi
Hi Susan! I so enjoyed my “visit” to your home again this morning.Thanks so much for sharing your life and giftings with us. Your writing and photos always make me feel relaxed, inspired, and comforted all at once somehow. Can’t wait to get the cookie recipe – they looked YUMMY! And what an awesome giveaway! It was already wonderful and then Joe’s wreath put it over the top! Wishing you a joy-filled day as you continue to decorate and create!
Dear Susan,
Pleese send my mom Joe’s wreeth, the tee cup and adoreeable,note pad. She has been very gud all yeer. We luv to reed your blog. Jack storees are gud but I’m a leetle afrad of him becuz I am a bunny. Girl kittee seems more my speed.
Meery Christmas,
your friend, Spikey.
Bunneee. xo
This comment is plain and simple – adorable!! June, I literally LOL’d! Thanks for the best chuckle of the day… :>)
Your banners last week inspired me. I pulled out all my red/white/green sewing scraps and am making some PRAIRIE POINT swags for house and/or tree. To make one swag I cut fifteen 4″ squares each of 2 coordinating fabrics. Then I ironed them into triangles by double-folding. [You can find instructins for PRAIRIE POINTS online. There is no sewing other than attaching the swag to the binding.] Then you just alternate the triangles fitting one into the other as you go. I will tack the swag together before sewing it to a “binding” that will be like a quilt binding that covers the “ragged” sides of the triangles. I will make a long tail at each end for tying the swag to the tree/over a hearth or picture or doorway or window.
THANKS FOR THE GREAT INSPIRATION. I only discovered your stickers/albums/books/blog a couple of months ago, and I love it. I hope I win your drawing! THANKS AGAIN. Carol
I love prairie points on a quilt! They would make a darling swag!
I really wish we could see your finished product!
Beautiful!! And you seem to decorate stress-free, the way it should be! I hear so many people say they are “glad to be finished.” Sigh — enjoying decorating should be at least half the fun! Thank you for sharing it with us that way!
Good morning, Susan! I so love your blog and look for it first thing every morning! Please enter me in your giveaway and have a great day!
Janie Campbell
[email protected]
Thanks for all your wonderful ideas. It helps me plan and prepare in a delightful way for the celebrations at home and in our church. Jean
Love your blog – it’s the first thing I check every morning. Been a devoted fan for years, have your books and calendars, make the bookmarks you provide for free (!) and try your recipes. I’m one of “The Birthday Girls” – we all have birthdays in January and have traditionally had our birthdays get overlooked after Christmas and New Years, especially when our kids were young. We’ve been getting together to celebrate us for about 30 years now, and I’ve used your recipes and cocktail guide for our parties since I discovered you. Always big hits with the girls. (Cosmos, anyone???) Anyway, just wanted to say a long overdue thanks for brightening my days. LOVE all the Christmasy stuff! Just perfect and beautiful.
Susan,
Thank you for the holiday inspirations. It’s so warm here in Atlanta today I will be decorating with the windows open. Your house is so beautiful – the outside front view reminds me of our house in MA when I was little – when I heard Santa and his reindeer on the roof! Blessings to all of you – Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack and yourself for a beautiful Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Happy Holidays & Merry Christmas Susan,Joe,Jack & Girl Kitty! Joe did a beautiful job on the wreath its gorgeous and I would love to have one exactly like it. I especially love the fresh garland strung accross your window so festive
and sets off your own handmade garland. Such talent lives in your home. Every morning first thing I visit your blog to check out the new photos and get filled up with all the inspiration you give to all of us who visit you each and every day. I love your home so cozy and filled with all the pretties. I have so many of the old
treasured “Christmas books” Many of the ones you have and I like to display them on my fireplace mantel as you do. Many hugs and blessings to you today
and always. See you tomorrow.
Ok, NOW I HAVE TO SHOW MY HUSBAND how to be a JOE!!! Better yet, I think I like your JOE better! They hate to admit how creative they can be-AFRAID TO BE JUDGED I guess hahahahaha! Way to go Joe!
Joe always surprises me, and usually in the best way, like ONE BITE of donut on the counter in the kitchen next to the coffee pot. He knows that’s all I want, and he just leaves it there for me to discover! What’s not to love!
You are a breath of fresh air! I love your blogs because they make my days! I send them to many of my friends and they love them, too. Your quotes are so lovely. I love the Eudora Welty quotes, I have always loved her wrtings, too. Thank you for all you do for all of us. The world was blessed the day you were born!
Oh! So Nice!
OH MY GOODNESS!!! ITS ALL GOODNESS.
You have out done yourself again I fell giddy with it all I feel like we have
shared our thoughts I too have a bird tree that sits on my table. The birds were my mothers and go back almost 60 years they are a shiny metal of some sort in red green gold and silver . I have planted my paperwhites and I notice
you have planted them lower in the glass vase than I do I am doing that next time. I have also planted 3 amaryllis plants some double all in red and red striped for my red and white kitchen. p.s. thanks for the great music it was new to me I played it for my cats and they are getting yarn for Christmas.
You made my day; it was a beautiful post. Thank you. I’m getting all decorated for my annual Christmas Party this Saturday – been doing it for about 25 years since I moved to San Diego – it’s tradition! Everyone brings a bottle of wine and an appetizer and we just gorge out and get an evening to celebrate being in each others lives. Probably about 30 this year; just depends on the year. Thank you for always keeping the Christmas spirit alive!
You are inspiring me to decorate for Christmas! This year we are fortunate enough to have a sailboat that we will also be decorating. I loved your blog today! Joe and you are very creative! You make a wonderful team! Merry Christmas to both of you!!!
Thanks for a wonderful blog and the chance to win all the goodies! Love the pictures of Jack. I too have a “tuxedo” cat, who is small, rather skinny, and full of mischief. He loves to play in the water in the sinks, sit by the fire, and investigate anything that looks interesting at the moment. He also likes to be up high and jumps up on plate rails, shelves and bookcases. He’s quit the character, just like Jack!
Love all your decorating ideas – keep them coming!! Your an inspiration to all us “girlfriends”.
Oh! Oh! Pick me! 🙂 🙂
I just love seeing all that you and Joe are doing to decorate! I got to work last week. It’s been in the 70’s here so to get in the mood I put on Christmas in Connecticut and put your cranberry apple crisp in the oven. I have to confess that my baking doesn’t usually turn out well but this time it was delicious! It must be your easy to follow recipe. I finished with the main decorating just in time to enjoy dessert warm from the oven
Hi Lisa! I noticed you were in Flower Mound. I’m in Bedford and work in Southlake. 🙂
Once again loved reading about what you’ve been doing to get ready for the holidays…joyous wishes to both of you.
Kindred Hearts for sure! I have birds all over my Christmas tree. My eye caught the cardinal quick. Moved from Austin (with lots of them) back home to Central Coast California (with not a one of them). Love all your photos. The wreath is so special with all that greenery. Thank you for You.
What a treat to find this morning. Everything’s lookin’ good!
You’ve really gotten me into the spirit of the season.
I’ll be in NY next week and you know I’m already praying for
snow and a chance to wear my new coat. We don’t get much of
the white stuff in the Southeast. I look at your winter snowstorm
almost every day.
You can wear your coat next week in NY, I’m sure Hope you get some snow to go with it! Be sure to take a long morning walk through Central Park — it is the true miracle of the city!
Impressed with the handmade, homemade wreaths – way to go. I also adore anything you have made so would love the little tablet/pad. I would love to have you decorate with your sweet ideas in my home. Look forward to seeing your place in all its glory in the magazine soon, too!
I love the Christmas decorations, especially the wreath. I hope you have a very Merry Christmas.
Oh, these would so make my Christmas! I’m off to pull down my boxes of decorations and see if I can come up with some Christmas whimsy!!!
P/S: Where can I find another Joe? He is wonderful.
Hi Susan — your blog is my “happy place”! Yankee magazine is lucky to be able to show your home —
“Let heaven and nature sing . . . “
Your home is so beautiful all dressed up for Christmas! Joe did an amazing job with the greens, very impressive. Merry Christmas!
p.s. black & white kitties really are smart; I don’t know why, they just are 🙂
“Visiting” you here is like a visit with my sister. Your “little things” always inspire me for whatever holiday or special occasion it is. Even the everyday things put a fresh spin on the day. Your greenery is beautiful and no doubt make the house smell like Christmas too. Very nice job. That little cup and saucer is about the cutest thing I have seen in a while . Wouldn’t mind at all if you sent it my way.
Merry Christmas to you!!
When does the snow arrive??
Very often, snow arrives right on Christmas Eve around here . . . but we really never know.
I would love to win this sweet mug and such a beautiful handmade wreath! thank you for being so generous!
What a CUTE cup!!! Perfect for a Santa treat on Christmas Eve!!
Thank you Susan! You make everything more darling and fun!
A lovely post to read today, thank you!!
Happy Christmas!
Dear Susan,
it is so much fun watching your house be turned into a whimsical Christmas wonder land! Thank you for sharing your life through your blog!
How clever of Joe to make such beautiful wreaths from items growing in your area!
Thank you also for sharing your 2 cats; it is such fun to read the latest!
God Jul from Sweden (Merry Christmas in Swedish)
Your blog is such an inspiration !! I’m just about 5 miles away from you on the mainland and it’s been hard to get inspired with this spring like weather we’ve been having … though we had a splendid lighting of the Village Green and the wonderful Christmas parade this past weekend … now, to get to work <3 Happy holidays to you and yours !!!
Your home always looks so warm and cozy. Joe has quite a talent for making wreaths and garlands! They look very professional! Isn’t it a great feeling when you find such beautiful decorations right there in your own yard!?! I love your bird tree! I too love birds…they remind me of my Grandma and her feeder and love for them. When she passed the only thing I wanted was a cross-stitch of a bird on a holly branch she stitched, that hung in her dining room. It reads: “I heard a bird sing in the dark of December, a wondrous thing and sweet to remember.” 🙂 Happy decorating!
Love that Jennifer!
Hi Susan,
I so enjoy your blog, todays was lovely as ususal.. very whimsical indeed! That little Jack is so adorable and I can’t believe he doesn’t steal those little birds off your tree! My kitty Maggie takes the birds out of the nests in my tree and I find them all over the house…its so funny. I’m in love with that new mug! I have the bird one and use it all the time, and I think Joe might be getting into a new business making wreaths and garland…he did a fantastic job! I have to say too that girl kitty has the sweetest face ever…such a lady. Have a wonderful day!
Merry Merry Christmas Susan, Joe, Jack and Girl Kitty. Such a fun time of year to see and read about your charming ideas and decorating. I have a small “bird Christmas tree”, too! (I paint birds) – – I LOVE Joe’s wreath. So much creativity in one home!! 🙂 Years ago when I went on business trips to New England, I subscribed to Yankee Magazine. It’s a fun magazine!. Ordered it again so I would be sure to see your article next Christmas. Hug Jack and Girl Kitty for me – – and. of course, Joe!! 🙂 Have a wonderful Christmas! Hugs from Minnesota, Ruthie
Love to see all the inspiring decorating going on in your Domescity City!! I am starting to decorate here in SoCal and have all my candles out and some of the greenery. My tiny place won’t fit a tree but I use pine garlands to get the fresh smell! My door would LOVE a wreath from you and Joe!!!
How Beautiful!!! I too have been decorating and my little calico..Miss Cricket…loves the tree…so cute when her little face peeks thru the lights..but not cute when the lab..Miss Honeysuckle..sees her…PANIC!!..Have put new doors on my home and that wreth would be lovely…love the cup and saucer too..reminds me I need tea!!!..best of this magic season to U and Joe and the”kids”
Ok – NOW I’m in the holiday spirit! Thanks Susan (and Joe) 🙂
I would love to win. I have a dog that loves to lay in front of my stove. He gets his behind up close to the heat and sleeps there all night. Love your decorations. Your wonderful newsletter is full of delightful things that lift my spirit. Christmas is a bittersweet time for me as that means that January is next and it will be 11 years ago that I lost my husband. Thankfully I have two sons and three grandchildren that bring joy to my life and many memories.
Well, gee. I ….thought…I was in the Christmas spirit, but I’m even more so now!!
Ahhhh. Thank you Susan for such ” festive-festivus” 🙂 my spell check just went nuts. :)))
And I’m, like you, Joe just doesn’t know what he’s gotten himself into. ::)))
Sometimes we just have to tell spell check “no!” So powerful! 🙂
Hi Susan! Your blogs are so much fun and always full of New England magic! Thank you for the wonderful decorating tips and ideas and I cannot wait to make my own Merry Christmas swag! I have a black and white border collie named Jack and even though he is a border collie, I swear he is the smartest of them all ;). Maybe it’s all in the name, and thy name is “Jack.”
Your house looks incredible so far… Everything perfect! I really cannot express how excited I am to read this article in my favorite magazine of my favorite person (YOU!)
And this giveaway?! To get a handmade wreath of MV greenery made by none other than you and your husband?! Well, that would be just about the greatest Christmas present ever. ♥
xoxo Erin!
Thank you for your blog…I enjoy catching up weekly with all of your doings. Can’t wait for the chocolate chip cookie recipe…they look yummy and look like they have coconut in them…my favorite.
They do, chewy with chocolate, unbelievable, and a secret ingredient too!
Can I guess at the ingredient? Will it spoil the surprise? Okay–looks like there is coconut in them! They look good–wish I had a couple right now in front of me with a cup of tea. I just came from the dentist (cleaning, only) so maybe that isn’t a good idea? LOL!!!
You can try, I would tell you if you get it right!
Coconut and/or oatmeal?
Definitely coconut, no oatmeal, and coconut isn’t the secret ingredient! 🙂
Please don’t tell me pepper or hot sauce! LOL! 🙂
I would like to but I won’t! Because that would be a lie.
I am so glad that your smart kitty is leavivng the bird tree alone. Unfortunately our very intelligent dog ate the bottle brush owl on my bird tree!
My brilliant kitty chewed up and ruined a felt/embroidered dog ornament I just got (was it the dog???) — so I hid the matching one I’d bought for a girlfriend, in a brown paper bag, in the front bedroom, thinking it was safe. Wrong. He found it. He got them both.
OH no!!! Were they scented? LOL
No, not that I could tell!
Oh, dear…Jack doesn’t sound fond of dogs! Tell him that Fanny and Betti are now looking at the stuffed kitty pillow a little harder after I read your comment above out loud to them! LOL! 🙂
Stuffed dogs, he gets along very well with Iris! LOL!
Norm tells me to keep the stuffed kitty high out of their reach. I had it sitting in a rocking chair (looked really nice!!!) and both dogs came into the room, did a double-take, and rushed over to sniff at it! The funny thing has been if I have it facing the light and it is in a darker room, it DOES look very real. A couple of our friends have commented that they thought I was afraid of cats so they were surprised we got one! Funny!!!
I know, I have one and have to blink sometimes too!
Guess that little Jack is in the doghouse now huh!!? ;-0
LOL! He gets away with it. Joe says, “if I did that . . .”
It’s definitely beginning to look like Christmas around your house! Isn’t it such fun? Green and Red just make me soooo happy and so thankful!!
xx, Julie
I found your blog and web page only a couple of months of ago and I am officially addicted. I read every blog post (I even went back and read all the old ones)! I’ve ordered great gifts for others and lovely items for me from your shopping page. I’ve been inspired to “play” with the things in my home to make it more inviting and interesting. I have serveral of your cookbooks, so I dragged them out, dusted them off, and am enjoying them all over again. I haven’t made your dog biscuits in years, but I will this Christmas and give them as gifts to all the dogs in our family. I’ve cooked your onion casserole and corn chowder, and I am going to make those wonderful looking molasses cookies this weekend. Thanks to your enthusiasm and style, I have a renewed interest in those pleasures of the home that had faded just a bit. Happy holidays and thanks!
Jack is such a sweetheart!
I have no doubt he is the smartest kitty in all the land.
Now, off to make our house just a bit merrier, with thanks to you!
Hello Susan, Looking forward to the next Willard. Sure to have recipes included! Your decorating looks so thoughtful. We just did ours over two days. Now it is so festive here. Love the Westie by the fireplace. My husband got me the bookends you have in your “store”. They are on our mantel. We have a Westie named Clancy and he is getting a bath in the laundry sink and a hair cut today while it is 70 degrees here. He also gets me your calendars each year in two sizes to look at all year. Great gifts. Have a Merry Christmas, HO HO HO!!
I am living vicariously through your fabulous decorating. Haven’t been able to do any as we are getting new carpet and I am having to pack everything up in 4 bedrooms the living and family rooms. Why would I do such a thing at this time of year you ask? Well I started the process about 4 weeks ago thinking it would be done by now but through one delay or another the carpet will be arriving Dec 7th for installation on the 10th…… I hope. I have a houseful of guests arriving on the 19th, so will only have that time to put the house together and decorate. Please girlfriends send me your helpful thoughts of good cheer. The delightful gift box of yours, Susan, would be just the thing to put a bright spot into this chaos! And in the spirit of Seinfeld, “Serenity now!” Oh, and PS, I truly am grateful to be getting new carpet and know that in the future this will be just a funny story.
Today in Atlanta the weather is too warm for December. I must turn on the AC and pretend its snowing outside. I love to decorate in stages and use all of the meaningful items I have collected or been given.
Your precious little cup would be added to the collection, of course. To be gifted a real wreath is the ultimate in decorating.
Hi Susan, Joe. Girl, and Jack! I’m so inspired to start my decorating after reading this note! The whimsical Christmas theme is just what I need this year! I hope all of your wishes come true!
Thank you, thank you. What a glorious blog! I have just finished my decorating. I have been checking back every couple of hours for your latest words from “the Island”. Joe did a beautiful job on your wreaths & garland. What a treasure! My daughter has a “woodland theme” throughout her home..birds, birds, birds. It is gorgeous. She makes her own wreaths etc. She doesn’t have cute kitties like you do, but does have an adoreable Yorkie named Winston who loves to lay near the fireplace, too. Am looking forward to reading “Willard” when it arrives. Each blog & issue is a present very much appreciated. I always carry a small pad in my purse, love tea, & of course, would be thrilled to have a wreath by Joe. Thank you, Susan, & a Merry, merry Christmas to all.
Hi Susan and Joe,
Your blog has been such a wonderful addition to my life. I love reading all about your travels, decorating ideas and I have made many of your recipes. I would love one of Joes wreaths….. right now my front door is blah just waiting for a beautiful wreath! Can’t wait to see your tree and the Yankee magazine with your beautiful home showcased in it. Merry Christmas and Vanna pick me!!!!
Kathy
Love the whimsy of Joe’s wreath! And of course, the bird tree which I loved seeing last year and again just now. Years ago, 25 to be exact, when we had left the warm California world to live three years in Princeton, NJ while my husband went to school and we consequently had no money, my husband surprised me with a wreath. He went into the woods near our apartment and collected vine which he wrapped and twined until he created a 16″ across wreath that still hangs in our dining room. Each season it is my job to decorate as you did Joe’s. Handmade is just the best because it holds the heart of the person who created it. Love all your handmade decorations, gifts and ideas you are so generous to share with us. Joy to you, Joe, Jack and Girl Kitty!
Love everything about your blog/home/yard/animals! The warmth… it makes me smile. And what a clever idea to use your greens for decorating. Do the holly and box wood hold up till Christmas?
and i am born and bread Dutch. Sinterklaas is indeed coming the night of the 5th on the sixth. 🙂 Believed in him till my dad was filling in for a party as a black pete. I freaked out because his voice was my dads! The look not so much. 🙂
Would love a little bit of MV in my home…
How delightful! I just purchased a house (Nov 30) and won’t have time to decorate for Christmas this year (unless you count boxes, which I don’t). I am so happy looking at yours and all the thoughtful and joyful things you do.
That one of a kind Joe Christmas wreath was made for my front door! Must be why I haven’t been able to find one yet. :o) Lovely post as always. Let the holiday season officially begin!
*sigh*…what a beautiful, FUN post!! I would SOOO love to win this! ♥
~Melissa
Oh Susan ~
You certainly have inspired me to begin decorating my house for Christmas. Your house is so wonderful and adorable! Thank you for sharing so many ideas.
Merry Christmas from Los Angeles! ♥
Oh, Susan. Each time I read your blog I think, we are twins separated at birth! I have a black and white kitty (Mr Darcy who lives here with Elizabeth Bennett~ Lizzie most of the time). He loves the plastic rings that come from plastic milk and juice bottles. I keep a pile in a sugar bowl near my chair. I toss them he he bats them back or catches them and walks about with them in his mouth making the oddest “merrow” noise. I have a bird tree that is always the first to go up. Most of mine are carved wooden birds. Last summer (I am a retired school teacher who has a new life as a wedding coordinator) I did three weddings that had birds in the theme. Now I have dozens of the little dears and may need to do two bird trees! Greens from the garden, trees on the window sill. At moments I think, “Humph, guess I am not as creative and original as I thought!” Then I realize twins separated at birth (As many of your readers are!) surely would have the same cats and creative ideas! Merry Christmas.
Most definitely!
In scrolling through the comments, so many said JUST what I was thinking…like now that I’m all inspired I’m going to continue with my decorating. But the best one was Connie M D who said we need to create a new word to describe just how much we adore you! We do, we do! I’ saving Willard for my next break, then later, it’s time to pull out your Christmas book for even MORE inspiration. Thank you for being you and loving all us girlfriends!
gg
You make it so easy! 🙂
Good Morning Susan,
Always a pleasure to share my morning coffee with you. Enjoying all you do and your creations. I’d love to have a bit of your beauty in my home. Jose’s wreaths are beautiful.
Crossing my fingers!
Love
Lynn
I absolutely love all the pictures! So inspiring and warm. Thank you!
Girl Kitty needs those sweet, soft antique quilts to lay on so she can contemplate life pre-Jack lol. And that Jack. I cannot find the words. He definitely got an extra helping of smarts AND personality. What a complete dollface.
Perfect word, he is a dollface!
I love your Christmas spirit. My mom loves cardinals so I always think of her when I see them. And, Jack is so charming. Thanks for the chance to win and for sharing your home.
Susan – thank you so much for sharing your decorations with us – they are absolutely beautiful! You are truly inspirational!
The other day when you said your next blog would be on Tuesday……. I kept thinking each day “Is it Tuesday yet”? I was so happy when it finally was and i rushed to see your new blog! I love them all – – they make my day! I know they must be alot of work on your part, but the enjoyment on our end is so appreciative! I love the cup and the wreath looks so fresh and must smell so heavenly.
Have a great day and thank you again.
It does and I am so happy you are here Robin, all the way from New Mexico!
Still chuckling about “Festivus”…hilarious…Love to see these pictures of Halls Decking the Halls!! lol Oh, my…what a gorgeous give-away. I know that Vanna can’t be bribed, so I will remain with toes and fingers crossed for luck until the drawing…xo
(delete prior comment~auto fill stopped at Lau)…xo
A lovely post this morning, Susan. Very festive and inspiring, and so great to have Joe around to make those beautiful wreaths and swags. Would love to win and original wreath from Joe.
It’s very windy here on the south end of Vancouver Island (38 km/h) today and the seagulls are having a wonderful time soaring and diving and playing. I love to think that the birds are having “fun”, because that’s just what it looks like to me. I think maybe Jack is maturing a bit and is now content to just sit and watch and absorb everything. He looks so sweet lying in front of the fire, and he has a wonderful way of showing his love. Girl looks very regal on the quilts. She has such a beautiful look to her. (Can you tell I love cats. I have two beauties.)
Luv it, luv it, luv it! I haven’t visited for awhile and I’m so glad I found a few moments to do that today! I needed this! I love to decorate, but making the time to do it gets exhausting. Almost done, though! Good luck with the Yankee shoot!
Your blog is so warm and cozy! It never fails to inspire me. Thanks for sharing your creativity!
For me Susan Branch represents Warm and Cozy like no other!!! That is why I hung around for so long…
Me, too! Now, in case anyone reads this and thinks, “Unfair, she is writing more than one comment to hedge the chances of getting chosen!” may I remind all that “Vanna” only puts ONE comment in the hat! 🙂 And I second the comment below where someone asks if Joe would do a tutorial on making the wreath! 🙂
You are absolutely correct about that Pat!!
Hoping to win, the wreathes are great—wishing holly would grow well in Wisconsin! There is one variety that is supposed to, but, I’m reluctant to try….hmmmmm perhaps next year.
Hi Susan!
I have just discovered your blog and I adore it! I love the mix of whimsy and traditional at Christmas, too! For me, it is not Christmas without listening to the Frank Sinatra Christmas album and watching The Muppets’ Christmas Carol. I hope that I win and that my mother does not see the giveaway, so I can surprise her at Christmas!
Lots of luck to you and yours,
Jodie
Welcome Jodie, nice to have you here!
Stopped by to get a book for a new bride! It’s a tradition I do. <3 a book from you to make their new houses a home. Joe is so creative. And I love the Eden pics.
Thanks for sharing your world with us.
I was reading this wonderful post thinking to myself ” I have to get myself one of those cups!” and then there you are giving one away! Plus a masterpiece from JOE! Would Joe be up for a tutorial? I may not win this 😉 so I would love to see how he did it. I just want to say thank you to you and Joe for brightening our days with these wonderful posts, stories, and of course your books! I’m giving your Christmas one to my best friend of almost 30 years. I just know she’ll LOVE it.
Merry Christmas!
I’ll ask him!
Thank you for being you and bringing so much grace, lovliness and serenity through your writing and photos. I am torn between traditional decorating and whimsy. Last year I came up with great answer for me, traditional in the living room and my 50’s whimsy in the master bedroom. 50’s Noel Kids, red napco,lefton angels and santas. It was perfect. Thanks for a little kick start this am. Oh, I was going to leave a comment on Joe taking “shipping orders” as a joke and then kept reading and you added that to the giveaway. Ha! Oh, so much to say…last year I got The Bishop’s Wife after you suggested it and LOVED it. With gratitude to you for your uplifting blog…Carly
Your whimsical approach to decorating inspires me to run home and to do the some whimsical decorating myself!!!!
You go girl! 🙂
Susan your post today was simply the best. I like to call my Christmas decoration style as “Country Christmas” which seems very similar to yours. Garlands, small trees, red and white gingham bows, small wooden toys and my rustic Christmas signs. When we were first married my husband and I saw this beautiful old looking wooden sign that said Its a Wonderful Life. I soo admired it but it was way too expensive for us but my husband found an old board, painted it white and wrote that beautiful saying on it. Its been with us for 30 years. We have quite a collection now but I cherish that first sign. Have a wonderful Island Christmas and a very Happy New Year. The give away sounds wonderful and I hope that beautiful wreath finds its way to my neck of the Massachusetts woods.
You have a darling husband!
Yes I do. He is my rock.