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
Good Morning, Susan! I am always so happy when you have a new post!! This one is very special–your house looks just beautiful!! Thank you as for being so gracious, and generous with your prizes. May you and Joe, Jack and GK have a wonderful day!
Hi Susan
Oh I have been enjoying all your decorating, alittle bit here and there each time you do a new blog post. I can’t wait to see your Article in Yankee Magazine. We get that magazine and love it. When I read you were going to be in it, I ran to tell my husband who knows how much I adore Susan Branch.
Can’t wait to get that cookie recipe. I love making cookies:) I love that Joe make all that beautifulness from your own yard. How precious he is. Love the wreath. I sure hope I win this. Happy day Susan, have fun decorating
deezie
Just when I was so impressed with Joe’s creativity I find out I have to chance to win one of his wreaths!!!! And the other wonderful items, yahoo! I just got Autumn put away yesterday, began cleaning and putting out a few things that did’t involve the Christmas boxes like pillows, a throw, a quilt, red candles. Thinking a red bird theme this year. . .
The connection of whimsy and tradition is so wonderful! One year I decorated a “perfect” tree to fulfill a personal dream. While it was lovely my husband decorated a “family” tree with the children and all our traditional ornaments. I learned a valuable lesson that year. My tree looked great for a department store but the family tree, now that was CHRISTMAS!!!
Susan, your house looks so festive. Between you and Joe, it would be impossible not to be in the holiday spirit. And that Jack and Girl Kitty! He is so cute and she is so regal. I just love them both. I wanted to ask about the iron lady figure on your mantle. I saw it in last year’s pictures and thought it was so pretty. I would love to know about it. As always, thanks for sharing your life with us.
Loved reading your blog and seeing the pretty decorations in your home. I always feel like I’ve had a little relaxation break when I read your posts. I think that’s because they are so refreshing and full of joy and color and love.
Thanks for the wonderful drawing!
….goodness !!!…look at all the comments already !!…the two little ones that I care for just dozed off dreaming of sugar-plums, no doubt…so I can send off this quick note to you…once again, dear Susan, we all are loving your post !!…… my dear old cat just LOVES to sleep under the Christmas tree…she’s nearing 16 years old now and is full of grace and peace….seems like forever ago that she was born at a monastery in a barn…one of the Sisters was so sure that the little kitty was a boy…SURPRISE !!…she is a lovely, sleepy old lady now…quite unlike your playful Jack…probably more like your Girl…I could comment more however I’m so sure you’ve already got soooo much to read !!!….take care and with love…..
That mug is the cutest thing I have ever seen. So happy you are writing a blog. Brings happiness every time I read it.
I’ve yet to decorate at all and this was a great post for inspiration, but all I really want to do is curl up in front of the fire like Jack, lol. I think he’s got the right idea.
Your house is always so beautiful but even more so (if possible) at Christmas time – gilding the lily! I can’t wait to see the Peter Rabbit room all decked out! Thanks for the chance to win the lovely mug and notepad and wonderful wreath!
Happy Holly Days!
What a fun post! And what a FABULOUS give-away! That Joe is a keeper, for sure! I love Jack pictures and updates. We have a beautiful black and white cat named Monroe. He is such a love, and he entertains us constantly. Have fun with the photo shoot, and Merry Christmas to all of you!
Just reading your blog and looking at the inviting photos really put me in the mood for Christmas. Our house and everything in it burned to the ground in June, and I haven’t been in the mood for Christmas, but reading your uplifting words and seeing your warm and cozy photos have really helped. Thank you, Susan.
I love the decorations from your yard! I also have a Holly and I deck the halls with it’s beautiful leaves and berries. Your house looks so festive, the perfect balance of tradition and whimsy is what I would call your style. Thanks for spreading your joy, you are truly being an Elf!
Love reading your blog and getting inspiration to try some new projects. I particularly love your tales of Jack and Girl. I can relate to many of their antics because my Maybelline is constantly entertaining me with her funny ways. Cats are wonderful and oh so smart!! Thanks for all the time you take to share with us.
Fraptious joy! The more the merrier in decorating at Christmas. Put my name into the drawing too, but I’ve already been gifted with inspiration! I’m off to make cut out cookies to take to my Wednesday Girls where we ice, sprinkle and pipe Christmas cookies to our hearts content. Happy decorating to all!
All I can say is WOW. It just keeps getting better and better. Such a talented twosome! Thanks for sharing all that you do and allowing us into your beautiful home. It is truly filled with comfort and joy and lots of love.
Thank you!!
Kathy
hello and good morning susan and everyone. oh i love the wreaths and garlands that Joe has made, how beautiful and christmassy. and i love the shot of Jack by the fire, just like my cats, they adore the warm fire and sleep all curled up by it…so i leave a nice big basket with soft blankets in it for them to nap in by the fire. its their favortie napping place, that and the big chair by the woodstove. cats are so clever and so much fun to have around the house. we have the kitty tree up for them, which of course has them in a holiday tizzy to play withg all the toys, and hopefully they will leave our tree alone when we finish getting it up and decorated. just have the window designs to finish and the tree and i’m done. the cookie cutters are hanging in the kitchen window( i bought a set for hanging in the window and have a set for baking) and the kitchen is warm and christmassy as well. this weekend is the cookie baking fest, since my MIL is not baking anymore, i get to do it and i have the dough already made and frozen, just needs to thaw a bit, get rolled out, cut into the shapes, baked and decorated. the turkeys are watching the rain pouring down here, the chickens refuse to go out, they much prefer their warm fluffy nests to going outside and getting wet and muddy. but the barn door is open so they can go in or out as they wish, the ducks love this wet weather…they are swimming in their pool and splashing about and quacking. off to get another cup of hot cocoa and to finish the windows. you all have a wonderful day today, love much, laugh often and live well. Happy Holidays everyone. hugs….. 🙂
I love reading your Willards– I always feel like I remember more about my past too when I read about yours! We just decorated for Christmas too, though this year we decided not to spend extra money on a wreath. Now I’m wondering what I could scavenge up like Joe did. Thank you for always brightening my day with your posts!
Everything looks so beautiful! The wreath has inspired me to get outside and cut some holly and pine and see what I can do, but I don’t think it will turn out as nice as Joes!
I’ve slowly been decorating and have to stay pretty close to the traditional. I want everything to look like it did when I was a child and how it looked when my 4 children were small. My expectations are always too high (I feel like Clark Griswold most days), but I am forever hopeful!
Thanks for the opportunity to win those beautiful items and for sharing your beautiful home and kitties.
His first hint: wear gloves!
May just the right person win your giveaway…and may I be that person! 😉 Wonderful goodies for whoever wins. Merry Christmas to you and Joe!
What a great giveaway! Susan so glad I found you several months ago. Thank you for getting me in the Christmas Spirit…Love all the pics. I must admit I have used a couple of your ideas around the house this year. Joy to All!
Dear Susan: MERRY CHRISTMAS to YOU and JOE !!! I love your decorating
and I wish you could help me decorate !! I would love to win the prize, as well as all of your dedicated readers. Take care and God Bless you all !!!
What beautiful wreaths – you have a very talented husband there! I love reading your blog and living “life on the island” through you! Merry Christmas.
As a sociology/psychology major (long ago) I need to thank you for helping those of us who love our country, our families and our traditions, to feel good about maintaining these loves and traditions – we’re not alone in loving these things- and we’re not totally ‘out of it’ because we do.
Happy Holidays!
Greetings Susan and Joe,
Now you both are an inspiration to us all. What clever people you are! I would fix my tea in that beautiful mug, place a few of my homemade cookies on the plate, get one of the several books I am currently reading and sit by the fire for the “bestest” way to spend a winter afternoon.
Nancy Whitmore
Lee’s Summit, MO
Hi Susan,
Love all your decorations, and Joe’s wreaths and garlands. What a special touch it gives to a home this time of year. It makes me feel all warm and cozy inside. Beautiful job Joe!!! Oh, and let’s not forget what animals add to a home. Jack is the cutiest kitty ever, next to my Mitze of course. Looking forward to seeing your home all decorated. I just finished all of my decorating last weekend. I sat back and just enjoyed it with a cup of hot chocolate. Loved!!! reading Willard. I’m a California girl and that is exactley what we did growing up in sunny California. Lots of fun child hood memories. Thanks for sharing your fond memories with us all. Happy decorating to you Susan!!!
Christmas Blessings to you and Joe!!!
xxoo Gail
Christmas blessing to you and Joe!!!
I love to see all of your decorating ideas and whimsy. Your home is so cozy and warm. Love the give-away, especially Joe’s wreath, love Jack’s pictures at the fireplace. I guess I just about love everything….Merry Christmas to you and Joe and Jack and Girl. P.S. can’t wait to see the finished look.
Ooh, so exciting, all the lovely greenery and the tree. Joe is very clever :). I’m looking forward to seeing the tree when it’s decorated. We went out for our Christmas lunch today and then did a bit of present shopping. I’m definitely getting into the Christmas spirit.
Susan Branch….I love you….simple as that!!! I want to be you when I grow up!!!!
I love your blog! And thanks to Carrie for telling me about it. 🙂 Such joy in every post! I simply love your house! I grew up in CA in an old 2-story farm house with a big country kitchen. I think that makes me love your kitchen so much. Merry Christmas to you and Joe!!!!!
As I was reading through your blog post I was thinking how lucky you are to have a husband that is so talented and how much I would cherish a wreath like yours. Imagine my delight to find out that you were having a contest and one of the prizes was a wreath made by Joe. I never win anything but maybe this time will be different. I will keep my fingers crossed. Thanks for sharing pictures of your home and your creations, it helps decorating-challenged people like me.
Hi Susan
I have just sat down to relax after a day of making Dresden plates for my quilt that I am making for my guest bedroom. It was lovely to open my iPad and find your new blog. Little Jack always reminds me of the character Hercule Poirot with his beautiful moustache. The wreaths that Joe made are beautiful and everything is looking very inviting, I am sure the Yankee magazine readers will live your home. Have fun on the big day!
We wish ya’ll a Merry Christmas from Texas. I found your blog in October and I really love it. Reading today about your house and decorations was just joyful and we all need to remember to enjoy our homes. Thank you.
Your blog makes me want to go home and turn on Christmas music, wrap presents and decorate a some more.
Dear Susan,
You are such an inspiration! I am having fun doing a little decorating each day. One of my traditions is that I decorate right up to the last minute. I plan to make your little Merry Christmas garland for my guest room.
Can’t wait to see your tree!
Cindy
Your blog just makes me smile! Your house is so charming. I just love your “old” stuff. It’s right up my alley! I admire your creativity so much. You’re so generous, too. That wreath is gorgeous!
Merry Christmas to you and Joe and your sweet kitties!
Mary I love all the inspiration you share in your post. It sure helps to get me thinking back as a little girl and looking at decorating through a childs eyes, fun and exciting. Enjoy the rest of your day.
This is such an inspiration! I was leafing through my Susan Branch cookbooks last night for ideas for a special Christmas dinner for my parents. In recent years, we have spent Christmas with my mother-in-law in another state. Decorating our home has often been pushed to the side since we are gone for about 10 days or so. This blog entry makes me ready to go home and tackle the job. I think I will make some hot tea and decorate tonight! Thank you!
I just love your creative ideas for Christmas! Your beautiful calendars came in the mail last week and I plan to give them to my two girlfriends whom I’ve known about 30 years. We always have a special time together at Christmas and go to a movie, eat a nice restaurant and share a special gift. Thank you for your inspiration!
Love, love, love!!! thanks as always for inspiring me to do more with my decorating—would love to just come and live in your lil house on the vineyard!
Oh my, your house at Christmas time is truly magical, and your giveaway is the best ever, ever! Every year there seems to be one little decorated spot in my house that charms me the most, and this year it is my kitchen window sill, inspired by you. I love the miniature tree and old fashioned Merry Christmas sign, and tiny Santa in his sleigh – all things I already had but hadn’t put together in one place. I keep adding tiny things – it’s hard to stop! Book recommendation for anyone with a child in their life: The Spirit of Christmas by NancyTillman. “Wherever you wander, wherever you roam, may you always be safe, may you always come home . . .The best part of Christmas is you under my tree.” (Love to Jack from our beautiful kitty, Bella.)
love love love-thanks for sharing-beautiful!
I’m inspired to try greens above some of my windows. I’ve been making kissing balls for years, so I know such things are easier than they might appear! And last year, I loved your bird tree, so i collected some special birds over the past year, and will have my first bird tree (or maybe even 2) this year.
What a wonderful blog post! It makes me yearn for a more homey Christmas season…to slow down, use what we have (rather than rushing to a store)’ and enjoy the season.
I so LOVE this blog! The very merriest of Christmas to everyone!
Merry Christmas to you and yours Susan! Thank you for your wonderful posts and your yummy give-a-ways! Hope I’m the lucky girl this time 🙂
Warmly,
Jacqueline
I am new to your blog and I simply love it ! Living in the hustle and bustle of the San Fernando Valley, Calif. your blog is a wonderful escape and inspiration every day I visit it. I just walk away happy. Thank you.
Oh your beautiful tree! I can’t wait to see it trimmed but it has a lovely shape even undecorated. I love Jack and Girl and their antics. My own black labs, Shadow and Clementine are anticipating cool weather but so far Kansas is WARM. My brother would be ever so jealous of your wonderful Scottie on your hearth. He has two wheaten Scotties who are the loves of his life. Pets and Christmas….heaven.
Hi Susan -I love it all! I could look at this whimsy all day. The cats are as sweet as usual and Joe just as talented as ever. Thank you for sharing and inspiring me today!
If I should be so blessed to win…..I would be sure to give these treasures to Oma. She has not been the same since your sweet birthday note to her. She thinks of you as her BFF!!!!
Xxxx from me too.
Susan, I start my days checking your blog, the wonderful photos, music, recipes and of course your artwork and the way you share your wonderful life is such a joy to spend time reading over. (You were such an inspiration when we were planning our trip to England a few months ago). I have been such a fan for so many years, but this is just such a joyous and thankful time to say thank you for bringing so much joy to myself and so many others. You truly do have “A Wonderful Life” 🙂 Merry, Merry Christmas and a Happy, healthy New Year to you, Joe and your kitty cats, Kathy
Susan – I’m here in my office listening to Christmas music, reading your blog and wishing I were at home making cookies for my family. Thanks for giving me a mental break for a few minutes. I feel refreshed. Now back to work. Wishing you, Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack a Merry Christmas.
you make my heart sing and my mind fill with wonderfull thoughts, and dreams and wishes……… thank you for that!!
Love to see the decorating you have been doing. The boxwood and holly roping and wreath are lovely. What fun it would be to win the Holiday Giveaway. I am like you–I like the traditional old-fachioned Christmasy things. They do bring back the special memories of childhood. Red poinsettias, fresh holly, bows on everything, such a special time of your. I’m looking forward to seeing how your tree looks. Enjoy decorating it!
Thank you….wonderful ideas, beautiful Season.
A Martha’s Vineyard wreath to hang in California. How cool would that be. Thanks again, Susan, for the inspiration. You even have me getting up earlier to get all of the decorating done which is amazing. Thanks again for sharing.
Arline in So Cal
What wonderful Christmas decorating inspiration, and an amazing give-away to boot! Ooooh, I hope I win!! 🙂 I love the Jack updates. It’s funny that you mention how small he is. My parents had an adorable black and white kitty girl who they names Aerial since she always seemed to be airborne! She was a cute mini cat and never got very big. Sweet Aerial passed away this fall after a very long and happy life. Jellicle cats (from TS Elliot’s Book of Practical Cats) are very special. Happy Decorating and Happy Christmas, Susan and Joe!! ♥
……omg…almost afraid to ask…who is ” Schmutzli” and “Black Peter” ?!?…..maybe I shouldn’t wonder ?????
thats easy to answer Mary, they are sinter claas’ or St. Nicholas’s assistants, when children are good they receive oranges, apples and nuts and gold coins ( chocolate ones) in their shoes that they put out by the door. but if they are naughty they receive lumps of coal in their shoes from Black peter or schmutzli. in France they have father noel and father spanking, good children receive goodies from father noel, and bad children get spankings from father spanking.
Oh SB, thanks for the inspiration. It is how I take a bit of my break here at Dale Junior High in Anaheim, California… it transports me back to a very similar time. The life in So Cal is still a bit the same, seasonless, and still lovely. Love all of your tales and times. Okay back to work with a warm heart, and a sparkle in my eye!
Christl
Oh!!!! I Love your decorations, your website, your blog. the inspiration you provide are endless, Thank you!!!!! Thank You!!!!! Thank you!!!!!!
You are so welcome, thank you for being here!!
Dear Susan,
Christmas is whimsical and traditional at the same time. For me, it’s about bringing some new touches of whimsy to the wonderfully magical and fun traditions of my family and Christmases past. It’s fun to see how “into” decorating you get as well – I will have to send a picture sometime of how my stepmom decorates the house – literally every single nook and cranny is touched with something fun – truly a delight to see! 🙂
Hope you have fun with Yankee – what a fun magazine!
Merry Christmas!
Melissa
Loved the update on Jack and his and Girl’s pictures. I like your decorating combo of whimsical and traditional.
Your house is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. I can’t wait to see it in Yankee Magazine next year. How I love your blog; reading it is like cozying up with a cup of tea. It makes me feel good. Merry Christmas to you! and thanks for sharing your home, tara baker
Susan,
Love your blog. Would love to roam your little island with you . . . at every season!Fall and winter most. Hope you enjoy this special time of year.
Well, how wonderful is this giveaway, couldn’t be any nicer for the season! I simply have to throw my name into the hat, I’ve wanted a tea-for-one cup since I first saw one, thanks for the chance to win one, and the other goodies, too!
Hmmm, now wondering if anything out in our yard would work for a wreath – I think all we have are itchy cedar trees, haha! Not my idea of wreath material. But maybe some of our friends have a pine or two, will have to visit with my pruners. I know there are boxwood hedges down at my little library that could part with a few sprigs to put in amongst some pine.
Happiest of Holidays to you, Joe, the sweet furbabies, and all the girlfriends! ♥
It doesn’t take a lot, and suddenly it really looks like Christmas!
You have inspired me to decorate with whimsy, have a merry Christmas. Patty
Thank you for your blog, Willard and all your wonderful photos. Looking forward to the cookie recipe!! One of the first things I do every morning is check and see if you
have added to your blog. Hurry, Hurry and finish the book about our wonderful trip to England, can’t wait to purchase a copy.
I’m hurrying! On page 120 right now!
Oh, to have a little bit of Martha’s Vineyard nature in my home for Christmas! What lovely items for you and Joe to offer to everyone. It seems the month is now quickly passing by – must get busy and finish decorating, shopping, and baking. But most importantly, must remember to enjoy each day with family and friends (and blog friends!). Thank you, Susan, for treating us to your Christmas traditions :-).
Who wouldn’t LOVE LOVE LOVE to be blessed by receiving Joe’s beautiful wreath, really…absolutely anything ..even an old grocery list…that has been created in the most magical and peaceful Kingdom of Joe..Susan..Girl Kitty..Jack and..sometimes Iris !
And sometimes Iris! 🙂 I’ll tell her you said that!
Thank You, she much too sweet to be forgotten !
Hi Susan! Jack and Girl are DARLING. I love hearing about their tales around your house! How do you keep Jack out of the Christmas tree??
So far he just looks at it. I don’t understand either, he’s fine. Joe’s putting the lights on it right now!
Hi Susan, love your decorations. Putting some sparkle on my windows also!! Merry!Merry!
Happy Holidays, Susan and Joe! I had an appointment in the city very early this morning but I spotted your post on the blog so I waited to have my morning latte until I could come home and sit in silence to read it and enjoy my cuppa (and two teeny gingerbread boys). You just are such an inspiration — always busy and happy and add so much to my day. Thank you! Happy decorating — I’m starting today! Jane
You could put everyone in the Christmas spirit with your fun bloggings… look forward to future Christmas postings. Enjoy your photo shoot – look forward to hearing all about it. Love ya……
Your sooo Blessed to have a Husband who likes the small things in life and shares the same interest! Love looking at your house!! Thank-you for sharing!!!
This post killed me with cuteness! Everything is so beautiful and Joe blew me away with the wreath and garland he made! Oh my! So fabulous! No wonder he makes your heart sing!
I’m having knee replacement surgery the 17th so I am scaling back on my decor this year since I don’t know how difficult it will be to put it away. I love all the tradition of Christmas so anything I leave in boxes instead of getting out, makes me kind of sad!
Do some tiny thing. Just in the kitchen. 🙂
Susan, I agree. Do tiny decorations here and there. I had my first knee replacement last Dec. 22nd and decorated very little. This year I’ve gone back to going crazy with all my old stuff! Sandy, good luck on your replacement.
Miracle what can be done these days!
I’m here making lists of all I have to do feeling somewhat over-whelmed. Yet after reading your blog, realized just step back and enjoy what you’ve already done. My goal is to celebrate the small things. Looking forward to the new book.
Perfect!
Everything is so inspiring! I’ve been looking at these pictures and practically shouting out loud; “I have that, I can do that!”……well, almost everything – don’t have the natural material to duplicate Joe’s fantastic wreath – but maybe if I go out looking this afternoon ………….. Now that I have retired, this is the first Christmas in a long time that I haven’t had to ‘endure’ the glitz and glamour style chosen by the office management – and I’m so happy to see your traditional memory filled style instead – and that I can replicate so much of it myself.
I just appreciate being able to see your wonderful ideas – thank you so much!
Isn’t that the best … me too, seeing something and saying, I can do that!!!
Oh, Susan! If only every girl had their “Own Joe”. How blessed we are to be able to share yours with you. He is especially terrific, I can tell (but YOU know that, and he knows he’s got a SpeciallyterrificgalSusan:). Love and continued blessing to you both this Holly Day!!
Susan, I love reading your blog and seeing all the beautiful Christmas decorations you and Joe have been creating. I love a homemade Christmas most of all. Thanks for giving us such inspiration and for being so cheerful and uplifting. Many blessings to you and your loved ones.
You and Joe are totally getting me into the Christmas spirit. I know your tree will be beautiful and I really love your homemade garland. Can’t wait to see the magazine pictures!
I love your decorating. My grandaughter came to visit for two days and we decorated my living room tree…it is pink with gold ornaments. I still have the kitchen tree to do soon. That one is white and has red white and gold ornaments. My house is tiny so the trees are the 4 foot variety and perfect for this little cottage. I hope to win your giveaway. You rock!
Your trees sound adorable!
What a nice story. You have the best husband and so talented! Of course I love your blog, your decorating and your cat. Please enter me into this wonderful giveaway. It would be so nice to have something from Martha’s Vineyard in my home for Christmas. Looks Wonderful and probably smells good too 😀 Happy Holidays to everyone!
Hello Susan,
What a exceptionally festive giveaway–how generous of Joe to contribute as well! He is a great wreath-maker, and it would be a lovely gift to receive, knowing that it came from your yard, and both of you created it!
A very merry Christmas season to you both!
Oh how sweet. Your post today is gorgeous and Yay Joe! Can’t wait to see all the Christmas posts. I hope I get my Willard this time, I’ve signed up 4 times. You really brighten my day Susan. Christmas is even more special with your whimsy and sweet colorful posts. Thank you! XO
Wow! What an awesome giveaway!!! I could use a little Christmas cheer! 🙂
I hope this helps Rebekah!
Hi Susan,
Your house looks gorgeous! Love all the traditional Christmas touches. Joe’s wreaths are beautiful too. : ) I have yet to start decorating. Waiting until after my daughter’s 7th birthday this weekend. Your decorating ideas are great and easy to do…which I love. Looking forward to seeing your home in Yankee magazine. Kitties are adorable! Oh, and LOVE the bird tree. Did you make that or did it come with all the birds on it?
I made it … I mean, I collected the birds over the years, and one year I was putting up the little tree and put one bird on it, and looked at it and thought, this is cute, I have a jillion birds around here somewhere — gathered them all, and a tree was born!
Hello Susan,
As always, you inspire! I feel the spirit more now that I’ve seen your lovely decorating pictures. Joe did an outstanding job on the garland and wreath! It would be an honor to hang a handmade, hand decorated, Martha’s Vineyard greenery wreath on my door this Christmas!
Wishing you a Christmas season to cherish.
Whimsy; that’s the way to decorate, use all your favorite things! Thanks for sharing your sweet life!
I’m new to commenting but have been following along since your big trip on The Queen Mary. Would love to have one of Joe’s most fabulous wreaths so please feel free to pick me!
OK Renee, glad to know you’re here!
Susan, your home is going to be magical~~~I just know it.. I can’t wait to get a copy of next year’s Yankee Magazine~~~even if I do live in Virginia. ;o)
I would so love to win your wonderful Christmas give away items..
May you, Joe and your kitties have a marvelous Christmas and a happy, healthy, prosperous New Year..
Blessings, Charlotte
Love your decorations and the excitement surrounding the season. Can’t wait to see the results in Yankee magazine.
Your pictures and tales of your wonderfuls home are a special gift for me this year. This year marks two years since my husband died and I can’t find the spirit of Christmas this year. My children try, my grandsons help but the spark isn’t there until…I read your holiday blog. I see the ingenious decorations that don’t really cost anything to make the house feel “homey”. Presents will be very small this year but our traditional Christmas breakfast is the highlight. I have seen several ideas on your blog I want to try to add more of the feeling of family and love and traditions of Christmas past. Thank you so much for giving me inspiration to be more thankful and joyous this year.
I think you are already there Carolyn, there is nothing like a Christmas breakfast to bring the true spirit into a house, that’s what I think … small is fine, as long as heart is there, and that, you have. xoxo
Susan, thank you so much for the bookmarks. I’ve copied and laminated a bunch to give as little gifts for my friends, some of whom are seniors and I know they will appreciate those colorful gifts. And thank you for the cookie recipes – I’m having my “church lady” friends over tomorrow and I know they will love the homemade cookies I am going to make. You really help make the holidays easier!
Well, tell them I said hello Rita! Have fun!
I love your decorating skills. My husband is the decorator and when he’s done, everything is wonderful. Of course being a kitty lover of my own 3, your kitties too are very special.
wish I could get my brain to be 1/4 as creative as your brain. Mine is in a stagnant stage right now. Please enter me into you drawing. All your ideas are great.
Yours is probably busy with real life!
I adore your bird tree, and like you, I have a few “themed” trees scattered throughout my home. I have my “Irish” tree, of course, with all the little shamrocks, St. Patrick’s, and green Santy’s. And my buffalo tree…..yes, lots of little buffalos that I’ve collected through the years and it’s topped with a cowboy hat! There’s even a teacup tree! Your home looks lovely, warm and inviting, as it should be! Thank you for sharing so much with all of us.
Cute!!
I love your blog! I only have a computer at work so it’s my breaktime favorite place to visit. Your house looks very festive and the homemade wreath and garland are beautiful. Knowing you are a bird lover, have you ever read Fannie Flagg’s “A Redbird Christmas” – it’s a wonderful book to read anytime of the year but especially now. Happy Holidays everyone!
Dear Susan: Your website and blogs bring so much joy to my day….really! I’ve come to find that the older I get, it’s the simple things in life that matter. I am in the process of decorating our home for the holidays and found it has become so overwhelming. I will definitely be simplifying!
I would love to be entered into your drawing for a chance to win your charming items as well as the homemade wreath. Thank you for the opportunity and Happy Holidays to you and yours~
I have a tuxedo feline match to Jack and Girl…her name is Miss Iris… she is a brillant kitty too… fetching and all. I love my feline compansionship as much as human companionship, I fear.. I also LOVE reading your blog.. it dwells in a special place in my heart every time.. I hope you and Joe and Girl and Jack have the very merriest of holidays♥
hi susan!!…love this post..everything is shaping up just lovely at your house…we are busy little elves too here in st. louis…we’ve got the living room tree up ( fake..yuck! but had to get one because of an allgery situation)…but….. i always get a smaller fresh tree for the foyer and it doesn’t seem to bother anyone…sooooo..yesterday i found the perfect one… a little 4 foot table-top fraser fir standing behind the automatic door at my local grocery store in a cute little red stand. I spied it and as I grabbed for it, the doors swung open. Not wanting to get hit, I quickly lifted the little tree up and towards myself not realizing that the cute little red stand was full of water!! Yep, so now there was water all over the floor, all over me, and some little voice somewhere saying.. “attention maintence…wet clean up at the south entrance”…….. oh the woes of the perfect tree!!!……Yours looks lovely and i am looking forward to seeing the finished product!! joe’s wreaths are just wonderful….very creative!! so..cheers to getting ready!!! love, cindy…. elfing-it in st. louis!!!