I’ve been decorating for a whimsical Christmas — lots of inspiration for it! Starting with MUSICA . . .
IT’S A KITTY CAT CHRISTMAS . . .
I thought you might like a “Life of Jack” update — and I know everyone thinks their cat is the smartest in the world, but this is actually the smartest kitty in the world.♥ He just is. You know how cats rub against your legs? Now every time Jacks walks by me, he doesn’t just rub against my leg, he JUMPS up, his front paws leave the ground, so he can rub against me. He jumps up, then curls around me and comes back and jumps up from the other side. Do I love it? Yes! Then he stretches out on the floor in front of me, full length, so I can rub his belly.
He’s also not as interested in ball-retrieval these days, now he likes rubber band retrieval . . . the thick elastic kind you use on a pony tail. I shoot them, and he leaps into the air and catches them, or chases them, and brings them back to me. I tell you he is brilliant! I will be reading a book, feel something come up into my lap, look down, there’s a rubber band. He’s little too. Not growing very big, so far, for a 16-month old. He’s a little, smart cat.
He adores the fire. Curls up in front of it, stares at it, rolls around next to it, naps as close to it as possible . . . to the point where I have to stay there with him, he loves it so much that I’m not too sure yet that he is aware that it is HOT in there.
But, just so you know, Joe and I do leave the house sometimes … we’ve been getting the house ready for Yankee Magazine who, if you read Willard or have been hanging out on this blog, you know, is coming to take photographs of our house! Here we are at one of our garden centers called Eden. They always do the cutest things at their entry way! Nice “roping,” don’t you think?
And we found our tree! At Vineyard Garden Center. Thar she blows. Now to get her home!
I started my paper whites — I save the rocks from year to year; I also found a bag full of moss when we were shopping off-island … thought it would be pretty to mix in a little bit of green.
Speaking of green, for a while there we could not see a speck of it outside, our lawn was wall-to-wall leaves . . . But Joe made compost out of them . . . and while he was out there raking, he, got an idea, inspired by the roping at Eden. . .
And made this with the bushes in our yard! Isn’t that great? I was very impressed! Who knew that, #1, we had the stuff to make this — even though I should know, I see it every day …. or, #2, Joe would be able to do it! (Although I should know, he can do anything!)
While he was doing that in the yard, I was baking cookies — and, by the way, this recipe is SO Delicious, I’ll put in the next post (this one is already too long!) . . . It’s a chocolate chip cookie different from any other — Joe loved them and so did I! Good Housekeeping is what we were doing . . . here on Christmas Island.
And then Joe, even more inspired now … came in and surprised me with this! We usually buy wreaths and put our own bows on them . . . but he got the urge to try making one; went out there and cut more Chinese and English Boxwood, Holly, Ivy and Pine — and look how cute it turned out, all fresh and perky! I hope he realizes what he has gotten himself into. One is seriously not enough.
My job was to add the toys, the bow, bird, and pears!
So he went back out and brought in a whole box of greens for me to play with! I love whimsy; a little decorating-sense-of-humor is a good thing at the holidays, but I also love tradition. When you google Decorating Whimsical Christmas, there are lots of white trees, bright pink, turquoise, and silver ornaments. I love looking at the pictures of this . . .
. . . because they are full of creativity and joy … BUT I’ve never quite gotten over the old-fashioned traditional things, and need to have them! When I think of Christmas, I remember how I saw it as a child when I was at my most personally whimsical (believing with all my heart in the magic) . . . sparkle, and lights, candles, color, stories, singing, cookies … pure magic! That’s still what I love. I want whimsy, but now I’m grown up, I know about tradition, and I need my old things too. ♥
Like wreaths and roping made from traditional greens that are green, my little trees in the window sills, or my bird tree on the table . . . I had fun playing with the leaves and branches over the windows — I just poked everything under the curtain rod!
And talk about whimsy, these were the “men” sitting in the “yard” of a gingerbread house on display in a coffee shop downtown! Aren’t they adorable? I think it’s marzipan … my favorite part is the tiny chocolate shots stuck in the top of the heads! With whimsy, the sky is the limit!
But this probably as traditionally whimsical as I get . . . my bird tree. I’ve had it for years and years, and guess what? It’s been up for a week, and Jack hasn’t touched it yet! It’s on the kitchen table, just over his food bowl, and he just isn’t interested. Knock on wood.
Rachel, my English girlfriend, gave me this tiny precious cup; I brought home leaves from our walk, another little bird and voila! Nature whimsy!
Plus of course my little old house that I found at an island flea market, it goes on top of the stove, like every year …
I’ve also been setting out my old quilts, which Girl loves . . .
I took this picture last year . . . it’s the ornament I got the year I move to the island. Now that’s a tradition!
And of course I have to do my shelf-scape of Beatrix Potter People; they needed a few trees and pears. ♥
And there’s not too much more traditional than Christmas apples and old books . . .
Yesterday Joe and I carried the tree down the driveway and around to the front door, which is the best way to bring in a tree at our house, through the front hall, causing the least amount of damage, both to us, and to the house, and there she is! She smells wonderful!!! When we get her trimmed and ready for prime time, I’ll be sure to show you!
I am not done decorating by any stretch of the imagination, I have the fireplace to do, the Peter Rabbit room, and lots of other spots. Which is where I’m going now. But first off, I remember how much you liked the picture of the beautiful cardinal on the feeder outside my kitchen window, and was thinking, what would the girlfriends like for a Holiday Giveaway . . . ??? Something whimsical would be just right, I think!
And I thought, maybe this little notebook, of the boy bird feeding the girl bird, the way it should be in real life at all times! And then, of course, because I love mine so much, you really must have one of these darling new mugs we just got in. They are just like the bird cup . . . four pieces, the cup, the lid, a mesh basket inside for loose tea, and a saucer for your cookie! So cute …
So yours. ♥ And the little pad opens up, is perfect purse-size for little winter notes . . .
And one more thing. Joe says he will make you
One of these! And I will decorate it! And we will send it along with the mug and the cardinal notepad, so we can wish you a Merry Everything girlfriends, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Winter Soltice, or as Jerry Seinfeld called it, “Festivus!”
To be entered in the drawing, just leave me a little message in the comment section (if this blog is being emailed to you, you have to click here, www.162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/; scroll to the bottom of this post, click on the tiny word “comments”); in a few days, our Winning Name will be pulled by the wonderful and beautiful Vanna . . . and I will announce it here. Joe will make that wreath at the last moment so it will be fresh! ♥
We say Bye for now! We would jump up and rub your legs if you were here! ♥ xoxo
I just came home after spending a delightful hour in my local Hobby Lobby–I left with a cart full of Christmas whimsy!!! It’s 65 degrees and rising outside–Hubby says if it had been colder with grey skies and snowflakes flying I would have probably left with two carts full!! He knows me well 🙂
Nothing like a little whirling snow for inspiration!
Shannon, A Hobby Lobby in PA?? Where? I went to one in New Jersey with a friend and was hooked! They are the best!
Hi, Linda!
There’s a Hobby Lobby in the new Gateway Shopping Center in Hanover, PA. I agree-they are the best!!
Thanks, Shannon! I will try to go there!
Linda
What a delightful and whimsical post you have given us! I love your pretty bird tree on the kitchen table..it’s so perfect and so “Susan Branch” :). This time of year lends itself to such pretty handmade gifts and decorations. Your post is so inspiring.
Thank you for sharing your love!
Janet xoxo
Merry Christmas from California, i do enjoy looking at the snow on your blog from the comfort of 65 degrees here!
Everything looks so lovely. Joe you are quite the talented crafter as well . Kitties are as beautiful as ever . Looking forward to the cookies recipe they looked YUMMY ! Thanks for sharing all you do Susan . Have a wonderful day !
Just peeking at your pictures makes me feel cozy and Christmas-ee! : ) YAY! Falala LAAA!
Traditional is where it’s at – my decorations come out year after year. Growing up in CT we had huge holly trees and could cut all we wanted, and got ground pine in the woods (I think it’s on the “no pick list” now); also had bayberry – so Joe’s gorgeous greens brought memories flooding back. Now I love bowls of sage and thyme that kind of freeze dry here in MO and so can be gathered pretty much all winter. I’m embroidering herbs on tea towels (Christmas is homemade). So – thoroughly enjoy savoring your blog!! A true inspiration.
You are so inspiring, your chicken with pears and cranberries makes an appearance every holiday season. I would love to win the giveaway.
Love, love, love your holiday decorations. I have been trying to mix it up this year as well. I always put the old stuff out first….so this year I am adding a few new, glittery pieces in as well. I love your garlands in the window and am going to try and copy something similar in my kitchen window! Hope you don’t mind!
As for Jack…he is such a good kitty. I have a cat that could possibly be his twin. He is not such a good kitty and has already been up the tree three times and tried to remove everything Christmas from the mantle…lol
My fingers are crossed for the give away! Love Cardinals and Joe’s wreathes are BEAUTIFUL!
OMG I love polka dots and cardinals!! Also Love Jack’s pictures as always. Thanks so much for sharing your home and life with us.
Love
Debbie
I felt so unready for Christmas…until you shared this beautiful post. The fire, the greenery, the oh so sweet kitties, books, cookies and tea cups and your lovely white stove! I can’t wait to get home and start decorating. Thank you for the inspiration.
Yay!
Since I’m not now or ever lucky, I was going to just buy a cup….but you had me at “Joe said……”
Good! That Joe!
It always takes me a while to get into the Christmas spirit, now that the kids have grown. It’s looking at posts like yours that inspire one to get the decorations out and look around for new ways to use them. Thank you for your glorious gifts of talent that you bestow on us. Merry Christmas!
It’s blustery in Gig Harbor, Washington this morning so thank you for warming me up with holiday cheer and inspiration. It’s fun to read some of the comments and realize that so many of us appreciate the same simple joys of life. Happy Holidays, everyone!
Your days are certainly merry and bright, and with a cardinal in the garden to make it perfection. Can’t wait for the cookie recipie, one of the first things my husband said this morning is “I Want cookies!” (must be the season)
xx
julie
Next post Julie!
I have been excitedly waiting every day to see the latest decorating projects for the big Yankee shoot! Fabulous !! And those wreaths and ropes that Joe made turned out so beautiful. I think they are way prettier than anything you could buy and I love the sentiment that they were made from the greens growing in your yard. A true “gathering of the greens” right outside your door=D! And with all of the love and help of Jack, this preparation project is continually enhanced by his successful games of engagement! The cutie is indeed brilliant! My Mr. Bump is always talking to me and looking for a quick game of “mouse” hiding . He is way too clever and irresistible for me!! And I am quite excited about how you decorate that big lovely tree. I just know it is going to be beautiful!
Susan, thank-you for always giving us permission to love and cherish our little traditions for the seasons and how we can be sentimental and still be an adult! It seems that so much emphasis is placed on minimal and sleek instead of fun and whimsical and just the way it was when we were kids. You make it “safe” to keep up those little routines that bring us a sense of security . For that I thank-you!!
Thanks Susan for the update on your cat. Aren’t pets so precious. They love us so unconditionally and are so warm and cuddly. I really like the wreaths your husband made. Wow…what talent! My husband is pretty talented, but I’m not sure he would do this. You are very lucky!
Oh my, I am in the middle of decorating my house, too. I’m in Northern California so we just had our deluge of rain this week. That’s the closest we get to wintertime weather. I love this time of year. I decorate every room in some fashion. We put up two live trees and several smaller fakes throughout the house. This year we are on a super tight budget and I’m worried about the light bill but I won’t let it dampen my spirit! I adore pulling out things I’ve had for over forty years and appreciating where we were and what we were doing when they were purchased or given as gifts. Your blog lets me enjoy your beautiful house and your wonderful spirit shines through every word!
Merry Christmas Sue, I love spending a few minutes catching up with YOUR Christmas!
Barbara in Lodi
Merry Christmas Barbara!
I love your Christmas spirit.
Your blog is adorable. I’m his fan, his talent inspires me.
Greetings from Buenos Aires – Argentina
Hello Jorgelina in Buenos Aires!
Always enjoy reading your posts and of course seeing your artwork. I have been a fan for many years. Living in Texas where it’s STILL in the 80s this December, Martha’s Vineyard looks so inviting. happy holidays.
Oh, I would LOVE to win those beautiful items! What a treat! I know you’ll have a thousand commenters, but one never knows … I might win 🙂 !! What is Christmas for, if not for hope? Your beautiful blog always cheers me, and inspires me. Thank you!
Perfect Mary Kathryn, Christmas is all about HOPE xoxo
Oh my! Do you have any idea how cute of a couple you and Joe are? I haven;t yet really gotten into my decorating…but with 5 kids all hankering to get started I know what we’ll be doing this weekend!
Five kids! I don’t have to tell you to have fun! 🙂
i am putting up my garlands with red berries and long glass icicles. they hang across each window. this year i added a silver glittered reindeer on each one and that’s it. i like simple. but the old favorites find a way to fit in here and there…….
love this time of year and love all you do to inspire us. i hope you realize what joy you bring all year.
thank you!
patti
xoxo Patti!
Love the wreath!!!!<3 <3 xxxooo It is a inspiration to me to read all your blogs!!
Thanks for all that you do !!
I love Chrisstmas traditional decorating! Isn’t Christmas a recreation of our childhoods? I think so and I think you do as well….and Jack! What a sweetheart…would love to have him. My own Lizzie is so old she doesn’t play with anything but loves to have her tummy tickled and always finds a spot of sun to stretch out in. She also loves to sleep under the Christmas tree as so many cats do!! Your house looks so warm and cozy. Mine is filled with Bridgewater Christmas bits collected over many years and ornaments that have some sentiment attached. Time to start baking as I am actually going to try to send some cookies to an English friend whose Mother has just passed away. Wish me luck!! And a very Merry Christmas to you and eveyone reading this!!!!!!
Such a joy to turn on my computer and find there is a new post from you on your blog. I love them all but there is something even more special about the Christmas time posts. Thanks for helping me get in the real Christmas spirit!
Oh, please add my name to your drawing since the wreath that Joe made is so beautiful. Amazing what can be found in our own yard if we just look. I do so love your posting and skip away from work for just a moment to see if there is a something new.
Hugs from the State of Colorado (with no snow).
R.
Hello everyone in Colorado!
Hey ho, they are getting a little snow in the mountains, but in Denver it is warm almost in the 60’s. When the snow finally comes, I suspect we will have a whopper of a storm. Oh, for a White Christmas.
Love Love Love your decorations, your house and your sweet kitties! You are such an inspiration! Thanks for sharing!
oh, so pretty, warm and cozy! now I’m inspired to finish my decorating!
but I miss miss miss your shop in AG!!!
merry Christmas!
I miss it, too!
Thumbs up for Joe and Susan and internet heaven!
I have made 5 merry christmas banners and put a little hart between merry and christmas and I am going to send them to my family for christmas, thank you for this very cute inspiration,again!:)
The German pancake tasted very nice,magic from the oven.
It is magic isn’t it!? Your family is going to think you are too Loes!
I just love Jack and your house…. wish I could stop by some time.
ecs
What a wonderful post! Looks like you are truly getting in the Christmas spirit. Also, you have inspired me to get my “fanny” in gear and start decorating. I am usually one that doesn’t decorate until close to Christmas, but this year I might just get it done early. We usually keep it simple around here and but we do have to put up a lot of twinkle lights here and there.
I just love your Kitty, Jack! He is such a sweet cat and we can all see how much he is loved. I don’t have any “inside” kitties (just a lot of outside farm cats) but if I could find a cutie like him, I just might make an exception.
Please put my name in your drawing. What a talented hubby you have. I love his wreath. Very festive looking. Have fun with all of your decorating and be sure to share with us!
Christmas blessings, Sue K
I would love to be entered into your drawing! A girlfriend here at work told me about your calendars and when I got to my search engine, I thought I’d just “peek” at your blog! OMG! This is what I want to be doing with my life, as well!
Ellen
You sweetie! Wait till you meet all the girlfriends who come here … you’re going to love them!
I so enjoyed reading about life with Jack and seeing how he loves sitting by the fire. I’ve been looking for a special wreath so my fingers are crossed! Happy decorating!
wow, isn’t that joe talented! no doubt yankee mag will be bowled over by your beautifully decorated and country inspired home. i know i am!
Thank you for the Jack update! We no longer have a cat and I always enjoy seeing Jack being soooo cute! We live in sunny, warm Texas and I enjoy seeing pictures of your fall/winter. Happy Christmas, Susan and Joe!!
One lucky person is going to win these amazing prizes, Susan! Woohoo to that person and it may even be me . . . . I love to wish and hope! Your post was wonderful treat for me to read today during my lunch hour at work. I especially love your photos – I liked seeing the one of your ornament from 1982! It brought back memories of my sisters, cousin, and I visiting the Brandywine River Museum in Chadds Ford, PA. We went to the gift shop and found your “Heart of the Home” book there – I think it was in 1988. All of us bought a copy that day and we have loved your work ever since!
And in 1982 I hadn’t even written the first page yet! Fun to look back!
I know . . . so cool!!!
Thank you for sharing your Christmas ideas with us. They are so inspiring! I made one of your banners the other night at midnight!
I get such pleasure in reading your blog! You take the simple, everyday items and with love you make your home so delightful. You remind me to remember the simple joys in life. Thanks!
Wow, your husband is a gem! Beautiful wreaths and garlands! I’m taking the day off work today to try and get the house decorated. You have given me some inspiration. Love it!
What beautiful pictures, I’m inspired to go out and cut greens myself!
Susan~~~~ What can I say?!…. your whimsical decorating is so whimsical!! LOL. Joe has that hidden talent that you didn’t know about? He is so wonderful to do those for you! Good job Joe!! So wonderful to be able to go to your very own garden and find all those great things to decorate with. How long have you lived in your present home?
Our tea group got together at one of the girl’s homes last night for our annual Christmas party. Such joy to be had when we get together for special occasions such as this was.
The final touch of our decorating our home would be one of Joe’s specially made wreaths!!
Have a wonderful day!!
Carol M
P.S. Jack and Girl Kitty are such a delight!!!
We’ve been here since 1989!! A long time!
Loved your decorating and pictures. Your books have always inspired me with their delicious recipes but even more important, beautiful art work and quotes. Thank you!
I like the traditional Christmas decorations too. There’s something about red and green and fresh fruit and pine, fir or balsam that smells like and announces Christmas. I really love your bird tree… so sweet.
Oh.. pleasee tell your husband that I think his wreaths and garlands are beautiful. Well done!
Tori xo
I will tell him, he’s very puffed up this morning with all the compliments! 🙂
what a wonderful treat this would be! a little piece of your home shared for christmas. love this!
would love to win your goodies! posted earlier, but din’t see it, so posting again to get my “name in the hat!” thanks Susan.
I love the Christmas tree you choose…it’s the perfect shape! I can’t wait to see it when it’s all “dressed”!!!!
You have done a beautiful job decorating your house …everything looks so cozy, warm and inviting. Will you have family joining you for the holidays?
Not this year, everyone staying home!
Same thing here but it is okay…I still decorate for the two of us and make a nice dinner, go to Christmas services at church, and will watch some Christmas movies. Sometimes the quiet years are the best! 🙂
Knowing how deep the quiet can be, does make a lot of difference in the best way. It was much harder to hear when I was younger!
Yes, I agree–it is easier to understand, the older one gets… 🙂
You provide so many charming ideas, I was ooohing and ahhing the entire time and I adore your cats (says she, a fellow cat lady, Mom of Butters and Lucy)
Thanks for the opportunity to enter a contest, not that I ever win anything, but it’s fun. 🙂
Merry Christmas,
Linda
This is a good one, much better odds than the lottery! 🙂
A kitty in front of a warm fire, the fragrance of fresh evergreens and cookies baking, the touches of whimsy lovingly placed throughout the house… you bring such delightful things to my heart during this holiday season!
It is like christmas every time I open your blog, I get so excited to see what’s there! I just absolutely love it, Thank You Soooo Much!!!!!
Hi Susan, just love all the inspiration for Christmas from your Willard and your blog. Pls enter me in your contest and be sure to pull my name. I have decided to subscribe to Yankee Magazine just so I can get the article about your home in next year’s holiday issue.
xoxo Jam!
This post was fantastic!! I literally fell into the story and your home as I read…..that is why we love you……it always feel like a true visit! Then the give-away with the wreath made by Joe! I actually whooped out loud! So fun! xoxo E
Love that comment Eileen, thank you!
You always inspire and your latest whimsy is wonderful. Can’t wait to decorate our home too. Joe is the best….I’ll try using the greens in our yard too. Happy Christmas.
Just moved from FL to TX – I am still adjusting. It’s 80 degrees and humid, not exactly Christmas weather (not that FL was either)! But reading your blog everyday just puts me in a wonderful mood. Thank you.
Our boy kitty Max greets us by somersaulting at our feet! Your blog is a treasure!
I just love reading your blog and Willard. I always stop whatever I am doing and grab a cup of tea and read your updates. You certainly have a gift of words and don’t get me started on your artwork, just draw me right in. We just got another kitty after being kitty-less for about a year and it’s amazing the joy (and life) that little girl has brought back into our home. So I know what fun Jack has added to your days. I hope you and Joe have a very Merry Christmas!
O’ my goodness ~ just when you think it ( your blog) can’t get any better ! This spot Susan is the very best place on the whole world wide web.
Yankee Magazine, the perfect venue for your home’s amazing charm to be showcased.
Can Joe come over for a spell ? His decorating charm just gets better and better.
I always learn something new from your blog. This time it was a wonderful artist, Mrs. Vernon Thomas, who illustrated the cover of the Good Housekeeping magazine at the beginning of your post.
Thank you, Susan, for a year of discovery!
So excited to see your home all Christmasy. We started Yesterday and here in Nor. California we are getting another rain and wind storm. Perfect for decorating and cooking:) I love December I share the month with one of my daughters for our birthdays. And best of all Christmas. We don’t get snow but we sure love the season. Cookie baking with a 4 yr old is what we are off too today, Tree tonight when everyone gets home.
Loved the post today! All the decorations really put me in the Christmas spirit!! I just adored the photos of Jack!! I think it may be my favorite part of your posts!! And, what a wonderful surprise that some lucky person will be getting a Christmas treat from you AND Joe! I think the wreath alone would have been an exciting thing! Susan, you have a talented man there! I think he’s a keeper, don’t you!
Merry Christmas!
Thanks for the peak into your Christmas decorating! Your blog is the most comforting and cheerful place in blogland. I always come away feeling inspired to create a bit of coziness in my own home.
Donna
Susan, I am feeling inspired! Hard to believe it is Dec. 4th – it is warm and rainy here. However, as typical Indiana weather, wait a day and it could all change. I agree that whimsy is important! It makes every day magical. I am also finding out that tradition is more important than ever. My mother passed away this summer and she was the Queen of Christmas! Slowly, I’m unpacking her treasures and a mixture of tears and love sweep over me. Your cats, Joe’s brilliant creativity, and your decorating are helping turn my ho ho hum into ho ho ho! <3
Love your blog. I just kept reading it over and over again. Really gets me in the spirit. And of course there is Jack snuggled by the fire and Girl on the quilts – life is good. Joe certainly has the knack for wreath and garland making. Lovely. I just made some orange/clove pomanders – so easy and they smell wonderful. Can’t wait to see your spread in Yankee next year. Some year I will visit MV at the holidays as it looks charming all decorated. Keep those amazing ideas flowing.
Oh, my, goodness! It never ends (thankfully). The wreaths, roping, whimsy, Jack, Girl . . . I can smell those cookies and the tea brewing. It’s so warm and cozy in your home. It’s been a pleasure being with you this morning. You have the gift of hospitality~among your many gifts and talents. When I saw Jack lying in front of the fireplace I was reminded of Little Women when Jo singed her skirt. There’s something mesmerizing about a fire especially a cozy fire. It’s exciting anticipating who will be the fortunate receiver of this giveaway, a fabulous Susan Branch treasure 🙂 xoxo to you and all us anxious girlfriends!
We have a real wood burning fireplace for the first time ever this year and we’re all so excited! I also have a tiny holly bush in the yard at this new house, so I will be clipping a few real sprigs this year-completely thrilling for me.
Today I make my traditional springerle cookies for my 5 children for St. Nicholas Day. It’s a tradition they love.
Keep up the good work. It’s such a pleasure to read your blog or willard.
A
What a wonderful mom you are!
Happy Yule! What a fun post watching you and Joe decorate! How you spoil us with your generous give-a-ways. We love it … and you…!!! Hugs to the fur babes.
Your home looks so warm and inviting! It would be so exciting to win!
I just loved this post. Could almost smell that Christmas tree and the wreaths! If you need a cat sitter for kitty, I am available LOL! Such a cutie! Please enter me in your contest, would be like having a bit of your home in mine. Thanks and Merry Christmas!
This post is Just Right. Filled with all the things I love most in life. Jack’s leg jumping is heart thumping precious! I had to say good-bye to my Simon kitty of 14 years two weeks ago and I still wake up with tears in my eyes. (My other 2 girl kitties are consoling me as I grieve.)
And that man of yours is joy forever, but you know that! The wreath is fabulous!
I sure love your hearth Scottie. Is he metal, ceramic, or what? I want to hunt one up for my own hearth. I’ve got a much smaller iron Scottie who presides over all my decorations on the mantle. I KNOW she would like to have a “neighbor” one floor down.
The greens above your kitchen window have inspired me! I have holly and ivy and fir. I will have to see what I can come up with – with Mr. Mathis crooning as I arrange it all.
I just bought a bird tea cup for myself and my daughter last week – and would love the Christmas one! How did I miss that? The peppermint on the lid just lights me up. If I win the giveaway, the wreath made by your Joe would be the most prized gift of all, though. Just so you know. Handmade is best. Now, where have I heard that before? Wink!
Give Girl Kitty a special kiss from me, Denise, please. I believe every quilt is made better by a sweet kitty curled up on it.
Lots of love,
Denise-the-NanaBeast
The scottie dog is an old iron door stop — we found somewhere along the line, lots of years ago. I will give Jack that kiss!
Jack is such a sweet baby! Joe really can do everything. The wreath is gorgeous. Christmas really is the most wonderful time of year. I love seeing how you decorate and get ready for it… XO,
What a lovely giveaway! Your post is getting me excited to do some decorating of my own…
Would love to win this! Thanks for your lovely blogs/pics and for the chance to win!
Hi Susan
Loved the post! Like you I lean towards the traditional-red,green,gold with a smattering of everything else. The only thing you seem to be missing is snow. I would gladly send you some of ours -we just got six more inches on the weekend. We’ve had snow since before Halloween. (Saskatchewan)
What an amazing gift you are giving us all everytime we log on to your site.
Happy Christmas decorating
Susan M
Susan, thank you so much for your beautiful and inspiring blog. I enjoy reading it so much!! The Cardinal notepad is a perfect gift for a dear friend of mine who loves “all things Cardinal”. Thank you again! And, Merry Christmas!
I’m always SO inspired by your blogs!
This year I made your pumpkin soup for my Home fellowship group Thanksgiving celebration. Everyone LOVED it! & wanted the recipe. I have your Autumn cook book & was showing it off ! 🙂 I got the recipe from your blog a couple of years ago.
I want to get a Christmas cookbook & dropped some hints on how I would LOVE one for a gift!…Tee Hee! 🙂
Have a blessed holiday season & keep inspiring!
Praying I win!
⛄Nettie
What a fa-la-la-la-lapalooza of a give-away! What a treat for the winner. We enjoy the cardinals at our feeder and in our bushes these December days. Love seeing your creative, lovely and whimsical decorations. Thanks!
Susan,
How exciting – to be featured in Yankee Magazine! Loved the post! Joe did a wonderful job on the wreath and greenery – very creative. I feel like Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without our traditions. Some of my older decorations are my favorite. Must finish my shopping so I can get busy doing my decorating. So glad you share so much with us in everything you do!
Everything looks so wonderful. I especially liked the Rachel cup with the bird and leaves in it — I love the kind of muted leaf and bird feather colors – beautiful! I do a miniature tree for the kitchen hung with mini cooking utensils, cookie cutters and gingerbread men and strung with cranberries for a touch of color. Thank you Susan (and Joe, too!) for all your inspiration and the joy you give to others!
OMG. How adorable! I love love love the roping and am trying to decide how to make it from my “found” treasures! The little bird Just Makes It. I had a cat, Kashi, who was well known for his ability to steal things from wreaths in the house and make it a play toy. Kitties are meant to keep us playful, mindful of rest, and careful to keep others enchanted (read: enabling) so we can be playful and mindful!
Good luck, everyone!
Christmas here looks as traditional as Christmas at a fraternity house can…the tree is up in the formal dining room…I would guess around 17′ tall as I think the ceiling is 15′ and there’s about 2 feet bent over at the top (and two and half feet of bare trunk at the bottom…yes, yes I did suggest they trim the trunk a bit). Lots of lights, lots of garland, many ornaments and the two stepladders still by the tree. Not a bit of it color-coordinated or planned, but there it is. And while part of me thinks, “They really could have done a little better…” another part of me smiles and thinks, “They’re such boys.”
LOL Gala!
Everything is so beautiful! Everything you do is so inspiring! Thanks for always sharing it with us and thanks for the chance at the giveaway.
I really enjoy your blog and the wonderful pictures! I look forward to them. Jack is absolutely adorable and Girl Kitty so sweet and pretty. You are a blessed woman indeed. May you a Joe have a very blessed Christmas and New Year.
Merry Christmas Susan and Joe and ofcourse the kitties!
What a fun post and what a wonderful gift for someone. It is good to see what one can do with the yard clippings. I love your whimsical ideas and hope to put my own spin on what I saw. It is such a delight to read your blog. What kind of tea did you use in your “cuppa”? I looked Christmasy. The cookies looked yummy. Thank you for all of your photos and I can’t wait to see your tree!
xoxo Pam
Many thanks for all of the ideas!
Sue! Love the decking of the halls!!! I want to go to Eden someday….I love going thru nurserys and seeing through the eyes of others!!! We will be getting our tree this weekend and then, we will learn first hand how Roxie likes Christmas! This will be her first Christmas with us and as you know, most rescue animals rarely come with instructions!
I am sooooo excited for your upcoming visit from Yankee Magazine! One of our favorite magazines. Joe has done a wonderful job with the wreaths!!! I may just have to plant some boxwood out back next spring. (we did have some years ago….and then, Annie joined our family. One of the first things she did was mow the 11 small bushes down to sticks….those and the geraniums! Never replanted them!).
I was going to keep this short, but I want to mention your ‘garland department’! Too darling!!! I’m about to return to my studio to make more for us and maybe some to slip into cards for a couple of gal pals. Your give-away is one of the best yet. Can’t wait to see where this treasure will end up. Have a wonderful day….love to you & Joe! xo peg
“Seeing through the eyes of others” — me too Peg! xoxo
~happy sigh~
I just adore your blog, Susan!
Each new post just makes my day! Anxiously awaiting Willard, I was not expecting a new post today…what a delightful surprise!
AND a(nother!) thoughtful, generous, FESTIVE (!) give-away to boot!
It IS the mag*cal time of year!
Throwing my elf hat (complete with bells!) into the ring ~ thank you for all you do!
Elf hat in the ring! Love it!
What a pretty place you have. I especially like the cardinals. They remind me of my mom.
Love, love, love your window display, whimsical is the perfect word and the greenery above it, takes it over the top.
I’m going to do a double knock on wood for you so that Jack doesn’t touch your adorable bird tree.
I made a box of greens on my front porch from trees and bushes in my backyard and I was thinking about doing some roping for my stairs. Joe has inspired me to do just that.
Merry Christmas or as they say in England, Happy Christmas (I love everything British)
When I’m at work and need a little break, I go to your blog and enjoy all the sites and pictures and stories and music but wish we could smell the holiday scents, too. Thanks for always giving me a source of ideas and a quick escape to a wonderful place.
First of all, I think Jack and Mr. Socks were cousins, because I never have seen two cats that can do that!! Second, Great Job Joe!!! I love mixed greens. Can he teach a swag/rope making class on-line? The wreath is gorgeous too! I really like the Good Housekeeping cover and I always wondered about a Currier and Ives book. I am eating a Mac a day until Christmas!!! Bowls of apples and oranges are beautiful.
I used to subscribe to Yankee magazine because even people who live in california need a little new england in their lives, so I look forward to your article. I’m on my way outside to clip some greens for my house and will try to come up with some whimsy.
Susan,
Your pictures are looking good. Joe did an awesome job with the wreath….
Of course I want to win the mug, I love my tea. The more the better.
Have a good day,
Kim
How inspiring to listen to” Marshmallow world” for the very first time and get caught up on the cute kitty boy.What a great contest.Merry Christmas!!!
For the first time? How fun!
You have the prettiest Christmas decorating ideas and I enjoy looking at your books at the beginning of each season or holiday to inspire myself to decorate and “get in the mood”. I love your kitty pictures too! Have a wonderful holiday 😉
Oh Susan,
You make Christmas, kitties and the island look so magical! Sending Christmas cheer to you from Montana! xoxo
Beautiful!!! I bet it smells good too.
Beautiful pictures! They put me right into the Christmas spirit. I pulled out all of Susan’s books and set them out during my decorating (with the Christmas ones on top, of course!) Thanks for all you do.
Susan
Love this post! Looks like you are cozying up for Christmas, and I always enjoy so much the pictures of your kitty-cats. We said good bye this last May to our tuxedo cat “Chuck” so I really love seeing your two pals! Thanks for a fantastic giveaway… that mug is so stinkin cute!!
Your home looks so beautiful and cozy for Christmas! He is a smart cat– the fireplace is a great place to be! 🙂
Thank you for all the wonderful ideas and photos. I feel inspired!
Just reading this delightful post is a good thing. It inspired me to get more “Christmas” out of storage. I was thinking of downsizing, but now I am an a tear to get it all out. Thanks for your inspiration.
I would love this wonderful prize…Balisha