December 20th, How can that BE? Time is rushing by . . . we need to catch up!
38° this morning Girlfriends, still dark around the edges out there! Listening to my favorite MUSICA, and thinking of you. ♥
It’s been relatively quiet at our house . . . especially after Yankee Magazine left! The good kind of quiet. I’ve been working hard on our book, painting new bits of art for the English Diary. This Union Jack bunting was hanging all over England where we were there, crossing over the streets of every little town, celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee. I had to paint it into our book; it would not be complete without it!
In case you are new to my blog, I’ve been working on a diary of the trip Joe and I took through the English countryside last spring . . .
And you know what? I have 130 pages done! I think it’s going to be around 200 pages, so we are getting there! It’s fat, heavy, exciting to flip through and see it coming true. I love waking up in the morning and going into my studio to paint. Here’s the page I’m doing now . . . not quite finished! That’s Alice, my English girlfriend Rachel’s dog (below) . . . we stayed with them while we were there.
Every day I get to wallow in the memories of this wonderful trip. Did I tell you there will be an Index in the back of the book with links to everything? Oh yes, to places we went, bookstores and pubs, places we stayed, tips for what to bring, how to drive, what to wear; all kinds of things. So that’s how I spend these wintry days, wrapped in a shawl, hovering over an art table with my pen or my two-haired paint brush, thinking, what do they want to know next? And in-between time… I’ve been taking pictures around the house!
When I make tea or lunch, I keep my eye on the windows over the kitchen sink, not to miss the daily Cardinal gathering on our driveway. Look close, there are two males, and four female Cardinals there! Notice that the boys are guarding the area while the girls eat? Look how stand-up brave they are!
The girl’s feathers are so much more subtle than the boys; no wonder they fall in love with these handsome guys and mate for life. Wouldn’t you? They are wonderful husbands.
Here’s our kitchen door; Joe has finished putting up all his lights, roping and wreaths. We are decked!
And because of Yankee Magazine coming last week (to photograph the house for next November’s issue of the magazine), we are CLEAN and shiny.
Some of you have asked me to post photos of our pantry . . . I suppose this is about as good as it will ever look, just don’t look too close! That is Jack’s regular bird-watching post. My niece, Holly, painted the “Friends” sign for me when she was twelve. It was supposed to hang on my garden fence, it did for one summer, but I was afraid the weather would wear it out too soon. So in it came and there it will stay. Holly is twenty-four now and just about to graduate from college. ♥
Everything is neatly folded, more or less — on the pantry shelves! I had no idea what they might want to photograph so I needed to make everything at least passable!
Before they came, I washed all the “red” dish towels and hung them on the wooden drying rack in the pantry.
Jack likes the ironing board too, another good bird viewing position in the pantry.
This is sort of how our living room looks most of the time … empty, peaceful, clean. All I would need to do to have a party is add food and flowers. All I would have to do to redecorate completely is to remove the red, change the pillows and quilt for some other color (except I like the red too much!); that room is like a prop, really easy to change. Those slip covers are all washable, so don’t worry, come on in and bring your cranberry juice! The carpet has been there for almost twenty years!
And here it is, not quite as peaceful anymore, all the little bits and pieces that turn it into “Christmas” have been added, pillows, flowers, stockings, wreaths, roping, Christmas books, sugared fruit, a tree . . . . . . And Joe, the honey on the floor.
There he is, a contented man, cozy in front of the fire. Lately he is asking why we need to have a coffee table. Maybe you can explain it to him. He isn’t listening to me.
And here’s the mantle at night, and the clock ticking.
Was just thinking, I’m not sure if I showed you this chain idea — if so, ignore me. It’s so simple and easy … you pop a couple of thin nails into a hutch or bookcase, and then . . .
You hang a chain and fill the holes with greens and decorations. Jack, of course, helps.
Speaking of Jack, we brought our deer down from the attic, which was a bit of a surprise for Jack. He was full of questions: “What is this? Is this an animal? Have I seen this before? Why is there an animal on the table?”
“Hmmm, it has a bow. I like bows. I like to eat the skinny ones. But this one, maybe if I smell it, I will know what this thing is.”
“Or touch it. Those, the sticky-uppy things, what are they? They aren’t ears. Horns? This thing has Horns? Why? I think I’ll bat it, see what happens.”
“I’m leaving, this feels a little bit embarrassing in fact. To have a human who puts horned items on the table, why? It’s stupid. I need quiet time. “
“I need time to myself to ponder the reasons behind things. Like, what is life? Why can’t I go out there.”
and why is that thing behind me.
Because we love it when our little neighbor Iris comes to visit . . .
So all is settled down at Branch Hall. And last, I thought you might like to see one of my favorite decorations . . . for every year . . . I may be a little bit jerky with the camera, but I love the bells, and everyone who comes in here says … Oh, I used to have those … so guess what? Next year we will have them in our web store, just in case yours slipped away from you.
It’s a most wonderful time of year. ♥
I’m putting together a surprise Give-Away for next time Girlfriends, something very very homey . . . have a wonderful day! JOY to the WORLD! ♥ xoxo
I woke up extra early this morning and treated myself to coffee and a visit. I needed a sweet catch up with you and now I can start my day off cozy. Sometimes it’s just so busy I save up my reading so I can have a little treat to savor. All my people are still asleep, the animals have had their trip outside and it’s a time to just enjoy the peace and quiet. I hope you have a lovely holiday season. xop
Hi Pam! So nice to hear from you! xoxo Merry Christmas!
Dear Susan, thank you for the beautiful Christmas card you have sent all of us adoring fans! Everything you’ve shown us is so cozy and lovely. (My first thought on seeing Joe in front of the fire with his feet up in the chair was, “I bet his back is hurting from all the decorating!” Don’t ask me how I know! I hope he’s better soon.)
I definitely need some angel chimes, and I am anxiously awaiting your new book. I have a Wendell Berry bookshelf, a Gladys Taber shelf, a Rosamunde Pilcher shelf, an Elizabeth Goudge shelf, a Miss Read shelf, and now a Susan Branch shelf, but it is with my tea and china collection. Keep writing–I have bookshelves in almost every room in the house!
I don’t want to take up too much of your time, but I want to share with you my early Christmas present: Our four-year-old granddaughter is going to celebrate her first cancer-free Christmas this year. She was diagnosed in December 2008, at five months old, with a very rare form of childhood cancer, retinoblastoma (tumors on the retina), and we got bad news every December since (just the luck of the draw, I guess). Last year, we had to delay Christmas, as she and her parents were in Philadelphia at the Wills Eye Institute for treatments until late Christmas Eve. But those treatments seem to have effected the cure; she has had good checkups since.
I could go on and on about how people whose names I don’t even know, have come up to me and said that they prayed for her. One acquaintance told my sister that the Catholic church in a nearby town dedicated a Mass in her name (we’re Baptists!). See how much good there is in the world? I guess that’s the main reason that I wanted to share this with you, to remind us all that there are still many, many kind, compassionate people in this world. Multiply my granddaughter’s story by a factor of. . .how many? They just go about the business of “good” quietly and determinedly, but isn’t that how Christ came into the world, just quietly and with no earthly fanfare or pomp?
You don’t have to post this, since it is so lengthy, but I just wanted to share good news through my tears of thankfulness. And one more gift, truly “Christmas in July”: twin grandsons, healthy from head to toe! They are a hoot!
Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones, and a most blessed New Year!
Thank you Nadine, a very Merry Christmas to you and yours! xoxo
Nadine, I can hear your gratitude in every word. Even when life is painful, God shows us glimpses of grace and goodness, doesn’t He? We have to keep our eyes (and our hearts) open to see it. I hope your family has a wonderful Christmas…enjoy that sweet granddaughter!
And those twins! Beautifully said Debbie! So much to be grateful for!
No, Nadine, the opposite, she DID need to post this. It’s important for all of the Branchies to know that good people, with kindness in their hearts, care about others, that you are affected by Susan’s positive look on life, and that we should be thankful for our good fortune and good health. It’s time to be others-focused and not self-focused. Merry Christmas Nadine!! It’s obvious what a kind and good person you are!! — and by the way, I have a Margaret Sutton shelf! Not many people know of Margaret Sutton and her “Judy Bolton” books! but that’s what I read as a girl, and what I collect now 🙂
Dear Barbara T.
I too love Margaret Sutton books! Thank you for sharing. It’s true, birds of a feather flock together.
Blessings
Victoria
Lovely post, and the saying at the end….yes, I too have used it on my cards for girlfriends, so poignant. Every chair and sofa in your living room says, come sit, chat, smile, laugh:) Warm, sparkling, charming!!! That is YOU and your surroundings. The little candle chimes, yes had them too many, many years ago. Sweet memories. A pantry should be on every architects drawing.
Perfect planeride from the warm south to the delightful north yesterday. However, felt like we came “up north” in Santa’s sleigh cause just below us thick white clouds that looked exactly like a field covered in snow ALL the way:) How lovely to fly above the clouds with the sun always shining. Magic.
Still a bit on snow on the ground and hopefully more will arrive shortly. Delightful to have dinner with daughter, husband and three of our lovely granddaughters last night. xxxooo judi
Love the sound of your window view! I’m sure everyone is thrilled to have you there! Have fun!
Lovely post! I wish my kitchen hutch looked as tidy as yours right now! LOL I do love those angel chimes!!! Can’t wait to get them next year 🙂 The book looks beautiful!
Thanks Sara!
Your English diary is much anticipated! I think it will be one of the highlights of 2013 for all of us. My lucky number is 13 so this will be a great New Year! Thank you for this gorgeous post, loved every word and every picture.
It was 80 degrees here a few days ago and now they are predicting snow (not much!) on Christmas Day. Only in Texas! Merry Christmas to you Susan and Joe and to all the Girlfriends!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oh good, love your lucky number. That’s my mom’s lucky number too, looks like we’re in for a good year!
I love everything! Merry Christmas!
Hi Susan! Thank you. You make me laugh! You are very funny!! I am still loving your beautiful tree!! I will buy a balsam next year and hope it looks beautiful too!! We had already bought a blue spruce this year and unfortunately it is shaped like me, too wide in the middle! I hope you have snow soon and if you do, please send some to New Jersey! Have a happy day and a merry Christmas! MS NJ
I will do that MS NJ … you make me laugh too!
Your wonderful house is simply beautiful. I cant decide what to comment about first…..oh yes I do….I want to comment first on how thrilled I am about “our” book!!! I cannot tell you how excited I feel every time you mention it. It is looking so wonderful and I cant wait.
Your living room is definitely gorgeous on normal days of the year, but it looks so gorgeous with Joe plopped down before the fire, with his things spread out around him…and all of the Christmas colors.
I LOVE your pantry…it looks like a little country store…filled with a little bit of everything. I would love to browse through it! lol.
Jack is so adorable on the ironing board…and everywhere you catch him in the house! I laughed at his expressions when he was on the tabletop and wondering what that white animal was! So cute.
Joe did a wonderful job with all of the garlands and wreaths….so pretty! 🙂
I hope you all have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Merry Christmas to you Diane!
Good Morning Susan and Happy first day of winter. It looks like a snow globe outside my window this morning…. High winds, large flakes blowing all around!!!
Your post was so enjoyed as always…. just wanted to tell Joe to move over, sit down on that sofa and dream!!!!!! xoxo
Sounds like you are in the perfect place for it! xoxo
oh Susan, just another wonderful thing i love about you….you help me to see what is right under my nose….yes, i do have the perfect place to dream today, and as i am watching the little blizzard outside my window, i’m going to be baking your ginger choc. chip cookies…..as always thank you for being there….xoxo
You too!
Susan,
I like following the progress of your England journal. Any thoughts about how it will be produced? Will it be the size or you originals? Bound like a journal? Just curious about the process. Thanks!
It will be bound in hard cover, full color, about 6″ x 8″. That’s about all I know for now.
Me too! I LOVE everything! I wish Colorado had cardinals!!!!!!
I love this post! Jack is so funny. His expressions are priceless. Your home looks so cozy and ready for Christmas. Love the Bells. Thanks for the idea of the chain.
We are expecting a cold and snowy weekend. I am planning to make the chocolate chip ginger cookies and watch movies. Looking forward to the cozy surroundings of home. There is nothing like it.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Sounds just wonderful Sharon!
Many thanks for the pictures of your home. How could one not be cheerful after a tour like that! Woke to an unusual 32 degrees here in Morro Bay. Ouch! My succulents will not be happy but the sun is shining and the ocean is beautiful, so life is good.
I know Morro Bay well, my favorite are the gazillions of yellow wildflowers in the spring! Well, ONE of my favorites!
Noticing your dictionary in the living room (like one our family has had since the ’30s reminds me of the library in Windham CT – long, long ago it was the town bank right on the green. A favorite quote over the door – “Once a bank, now a richer institution.” Absolutely…
Ha ha … that is so great!
So true!!!
What beautiful pictures of your home today! You have the gift of decorating know-how and every room looks so cozy and inviting. I love the pantry especially; I have an apron that was my mother in laws that looks just like the red checkered dish towels. I think I’ll get it out and wear it in her memory while baking.
I’m getting more anxious for the diary every time you put up pictures of it. We’re getting some snow today on this first day of winter, finally looking like Christmas time at last! Stay warm and snug and a blessed Merry Christmas to you, Susan and Joe and kitties, and to all the girlfriends!
How cute that apron must be! Perfect for the season. Thank you Barb!
Yea – in this season our grand-nephew was born early this morning!! (I asked my sister if I could be a grand-aunt since we won’t have grandchildren of our own & she thought that was a terrific idea!) I’m so happy!
We’re off to Disneyland – figured that if the world ended today we might as well be someplace fun!! 😉
Love and the happiest of Christmases to all!!
Good thinking Kerry, and congratulations!!!
Susan, another wonderful post! You have a beautiful house. I must tell you I made your Merry Christmas banner from a few posts back. And a Noel banner for over the fireplace. I am now making one for Happy New Year, Happy Spring, ect. It adds such a homey touch to the kitchen. Thanks for all the wounderful ideas you bring us. Merry Christmas to all & Kisses to the Kitties!
I know, so many good events to celebrate with a banner … don’t forget Happy Birthday! 🙂 Thank you Julie, Merry Christmas!
Thank you Susan for another beautiful post. I cannot wait for your new book to be available, it is just so incredibly beautiful what we have seen.
Merry Christmas to you and Joe and Jack and Girl, too.
Pat
Merry Christmas, sweet Susan!!! Your post is so nice. I love your photos and this entire post. Jack is so darn cute!!! And so is your visitor, Iris.
Have a wonderful holiday and thank you for your awesome blog, from the bottom of my heart!
Merry Christmas Sharon!
hello and good morning susan and girlfriends from the frozen pacific northwest. we had snow all day yesterday and it finally stopped sometime last night. this morning we noticed the house across from us had lost its front fence, since noone is in it, we called the real estate company handling the place and let them know that the fence was down, along with alot of large tree branches in the front and trees in the back. its a mess there, and i sincerely doubt that anyone from the real estate company will come out and do anything. sad to see an old house neglected like that. well have my 2 lil visitors here again, and a snow war is about go on in the back, and maybe an adventure on the sled on the hill up the road a bit. have room for a few more on the sled, care to join the fun??? how about a snow war??? you can hide behind the log pile near the barn, okay maybe over behind the barn. Happy first day of winter everyone. have a fun and wonderful weekend. Merry Christmas. hugs….. 🙂
Oh what Joy and Peace you spread, my Dear!
Here in Pretty Blog Land.
Thank you…
Thank you…
Thank you…
Thank you…
Thank you…
Thank you…
“Auntie”
Thank you back Auntie!
Love your blog! Just began reading it about a month ago. You have inspired me no end! I did the garlands with words — “Merry Christmas” “God Jul” (for my Swedish roots!) and “Noel” . . . just because! I’ll send photos. Thanks for your wonderful photos and quotes. Love it all!
So nice to see you here Jane!
Love that Jack. Wish I could share pictures of my Bruno. He’s like Jack. As for your coffee table, I’m with Joe. I haven’t had one for years. Too many passing tails and swatting paws. Besides, my pets are mostly trying to get to ME anyway. All that furniture just got in the way. Thanks for the smiles! And if the world DOES end today, know that you are loved.
Forgot about that! Today is the day? And with the sun just coming out for the first time?
Susan , Ah i love Christmas ! Its so wonderful and peaceful ! Thank you for once again reminding me how great it is and how great life is!I think often times we forget that. I hope you have a great Christmas . Faith
You too Faith with the perfect name!
O.k. Just loved this installment of your blog….I now feel quite Christmasy…and am going to go finish decorationg….it’s time to do that…just a bit here and a bit there…tell Joe coffee tables are for ”stuff”! The necessaries of life…be it just pretty things to look at….or the right place to set a mug of hot tea while gazing at the fire….or reading a book….whether you are on the sofa, a chair, or THE FLOOR! Yea, for coffee tables! When Jack needs a hug, tell him one is also being sent from Ohio….just for him!
Cynthia
I’ll do it Cynthia!
Hey Susan…your house looks SO beautiful. All ready for the holiday, but looks like it is always ready for good friends to come in and sit and chat ! Getting ready for the holiday here….school is out ( yay!) and now I am “loving” my home ( that is my code for cleaning, and it seems to go nicer that way…..) to get all the cookie sprinkles that are hiding on the floor and the countertops ! Finishing up listening to Christmas music and ready for the magic ! The cardinals are SO beautiful…check out the home page of Bing.com today – they have cardinals, too. OK….here it comes….magic on the way. Enjoy the winter solstice.
“Life is so extraordinary. Wonderful surprises are just around the most unexpected corners.”
― Rosamunde Pilcher, Winter Solstice
Perfect Ann! Magic on the way!
Hi Ann, don’t you just love everything that Rosamunde Pilcher said….. i’m sure you have read her Shell Seekers…
ahhhhhhh beautiful!!!!!
I think Winter Solstice was a perfect book, a great read!
What a great post! I love your pantry area, I have the same ‘tulip’ bow (it was my husband’s grandma’s). LOVE the chrystal drop candle bobeches, I would so buy them if you had those in your shop!!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS, SUSAN
I think we will have them for next year!
Oh, how adorable that is – Jack with the reindeer! Jack probably wondered what kind of creature had invaded his home!:-)
It is quite festive at your house, Susan. Are you REALLY all prepared? I keep trying to work on my list, but run into “roadblocks” along the way. I do, however, have your Turkey Lasagna finally assembled, stored in the refrigerator, and waiting to meet the oven! Oldest daughter arrives on Saturday. That’s about all we’re sure of at this point – except that our twins will be 38 on Sunday, and we are all trying to arrange a meeting halfway. I still have those cakes to bake!
That’s enough about me! I want to be sure to send wishes for a Merry Christmas your way!
xo Nellie
I want to be sure to send Christmas wishes back to you Nellie! Happy birthday to you, too, for 38 years ago!
Merry Christmas to you and yours! I hope you have a wonderful holiday! Snow for Christmas would be loverly!
Karen Catpenter
Love the book can’t wait. Every thing you do is inspirational..and the wonderful comments from all the friends
I admire your beautiful home and your Christmas decorations. I look forward to getting the angel bells next year. I forgot about them, I used to have a set, and like you said they got away from me and I cannot remember what happened to them. I hope you and your sweet Joe and family have a wonderful Christmas. xoxo
Hi Susan,
Your home is very cozy and warm. While I listened to the Musica, I lit a virtual fire in a virtual fireplace so that I can ‘feel’ the warmth of your cozy home. Ahhh… wonderful. I sure miss the snow. In central California we have been getting very cold and icy morning. Every morning I think, maybe today will be the day we get a little bit of snow… nope… nada. Oh well I will have to settle for the icy mornings, knitted hats,scarves and gloves and hot chocolate. Besides, the couple of times that this place has had snow, I think shocked everybody’s winter sensibilities. From what I hear after the shock wore off they all ran out and built itty bitty little snowmen (which they put in their freezers), tried to go tobogganing in their front yards and had mini little snowball fights. All the while, in the midwest, where I was at, blizzards with howling winds, were dumping inches and inches of snow. You could imagine the size of snowmen we were building… one section of their torso took quite a while to roll into a giant ball.
I love Christmas and what a lovely Christmas spirit your home has. The great big dictionary in your living room looks really old…. adds a certain charm to the room. I’ll bet there are some wonderful old words in there.
Well, here’s wishing to you and yours a very blessed and peaceful Christmas.
xoxox
Merry Christmas Silvia!
hello, good afternoon girlfriends. my 2 lil visitor are napping right now, i guess the snow war wore them, along with the sled ride down the hill just up the road. they have had an adventuresome day. Happy first day of Winter to everyone. have to run back out to the henhouse, have block off a few “holes” a critter or varmint made and got in and got some of my chickens and a young rooster so i had better finish securing the inside so that varmint can’t get back in and leaves my chickens alone. had to let you know, the kitties all got rolled in the snow last night, so its official now…its winter. we do that to them for the first snowfall each year. its a fun tradition, and Midnight actually likes it, he loves bundling up in hubby’s jacket and going out in the snow and getting snow on him, he just adores it. now we couldn’t decide who meowed the loudest, its between Tabby and Miss Kitty, but they had fun sniffing at the snow. told you every time it snows we take the cats out and roll them in the snow. wonder what Jack would do???? have a wonderful day everyone and Merry Christmas. hugs….. 🙂
Jack might have a wee heart attack. We have yet to roll him inside, much less in the snow! 🙂 LOL
we are still deciding who yowled the loudest, but so far no ill effects from the snow rolling. we do it every year and they love it or we wouldn’t be able to get them out at all. they like watching the snowflakes come down, when they come back in from their snow rolling the others lick the snow off, tasting i guess!!
Pat, so sorry about you losing your chickens. It’s sad and frustrating. I lost a duck “couple” last year to a bear, we think. Now I am only left with a pair of companionable bachelor duckies. Funny little critters. I also wanted to say you are a blessing to your “little visitors”. Enjoy the snow!
~ Jamie
well we figured out finally what is doing the killing, and how they are getting in, trust me that entrance will be blocked off today and that raccoon is not coming back in. yes its a raccoon and i’m ready to start a coon hunt for that varmint. thanks for the kind words, sad to say the count now stands at 8 hens, and 1 young rooster dead, and mr coon had better make tracks for elsewhere…time for a coon hunt!!!
Oh Pat…terrible varmint!
thank you susan, we’ll get that varmint, i have all the holes plugged and blocked off and his one entrance is shuttered off so he just may go hungry tonight. its definitely time for a coon hunt around here.
Let us know when you get him! Chicken killing is just not nice!
What about the racoon’s hungry babies? 🙂
Oh Susan, Thank you for bringing all the coziness back to us…all is calm..all is bright..Jack is on guard and Iris is in the house !
Loved the chimey sound of the bells. Merry Christmas!
Just catching up…..it has been a week of unforeseen circumstances for so many of us. I am so glad to be able to have a bit of quiet time, catch up and read the posts and the comments.
Susan…..thank you for…..being a haven for……….. Comfort and Joy!
Merry Christmas to you, Joe and all the girlfriends….wishing you a holiday filled with happiness…… friends, family, and all the things that feed your heart and soul…
Christmas Blessings to you all.
Deb
To you and yours too Deb! xoxo
Merry Christmas, Deb from Dixie! Will you be celebrating in Florida? Please give your darling mom a hug and kiss from me. I feel as if I know and love her! And is The Bean with you or did he go back home?
I’ve been busy baking pies and wrapping presents. Tomorrow after church all of my family will have Christmas meal at my only sibling’s house–my sister and all of her family. I can’t wait!
Hope you make some good memories this Christmas and I will be thinking of you!
Love,
Linda
Happy Holidays to you too Linda! Hope you saw my note to you , a few posts back.
Yes, we will be in Florida with Mom for Christmas….and “The Bean” is here too…..I am thrilled about that!
I did my best to decorate and make things cheery for everyone…today making a few cookies….and some soup. We are recalling some Christmas memories from long ago.
At 92 Mom seems to be recalling stories from many years ago. Some of them are touching, some so funny and others pull at my heart. We cherish each day.
Sure sounds like you have been busy too…..and that you are going to have a lot of fun at a big family dinner today……joy, merriment and cheer! Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas…..filled with happiness.
And also sending “furry high-fives”- to your bundle of furry fun…. ( I think that is the newest SB girlfriends salute to our furry friends!
Merry Christmas and blessings in the New Year.
Hugs,
Deb
Hi Susan,
I know your new book is about your trip to England, but what about the book you were researching a few years ago? Is that part of this book as well? I remember you sharing pictures of all your diaries. Thanks for the previous post…or maybe it was two posts ago…about what “one” person can do. I started to write a comment, but being a second grade teacher it was getting too emotional. It was very hard to go back to school this past Monday…an emotional day for every teacher I’m sure. I pray for those families to find some peace.
Thanks for posting pics of your pantry….I to was wondering what it looked like. 🙂
Merry Christmas ~
Maureen
It is emotional, for me too, and you’re a teacher, it must be much more so for you. Those darling children in the 2nd grade, thank you for being there. Merry Christmas Maureen!
I have not commented before but I just had to tell you today how much I love your blog! I have been following for a couple of years now and it really brings such JOY to my life. Thank you sharing the beauty you see each day which helps me to realize that all we have to do is look to see the beauty around us. You home is beautiful. Love each room you have shared. I too have a set of bowls like yours with the tulips. They were my grandmothers. I love how you combine the old with the new and makes it feel like home. Very inspiring.
Merry Christmas!
So nice to meet you Kim! Merry Christmas to you too!
Phew….what a day I ended up having and before I give an update about my festive holiday baking….I have one important question for all you bakers out there…when you are making fudge and the word “constantly” is in the instructions which is self explanatory and I made sure to do it…(took an Arthritis Tylenol before I started for my stirring arm)….here comes my question…how are you suppose to test the soft ball stage with the candy thermometer and “constantly” stir at the same time?? I know they are suppose to attach to the pot..but, it takes a rocket scientist to figure out exactly where 234 degrees is on the thermometer that I own so since one wasn’t around Jim and I did our annual consultation/prediction which normally comes pretty close! I pulled my trusty wooden stool to the stove (do not judge me Pat) it makes Jim feel better about me not overdoing it (bless his dear heart) so I start off sitting and stirring and it cannot be done so up I stand and every year after I am done stirring and mixing and it finally gets in the pan I feel relieved and convinced my right arm is now ready to compete with Popeye’s!!! The fudge is done and I decided to multi task and fit doing 2 loads of laundry into my baking regime. I also baked my daughter’s favorite “Angel Pillows” and before they were cooled Jim was sampling which wasn’t a problem except they hadn’t been iced and sprinkled with coconut (rule of thumb)….I had to laugh to myself when he asked in genuine concern “why don’t you just go and buy (GASP) fudge why do you put yourself through this every year”?? I pondered his suggestion for a nano second and said sweetly “honey, it just isn’t as good.” Tradition…..It also dawned on me that every year I think making fudge sometime during the year might be a good idea and yet it never happens…is it because it takes Christmas to motivate this ritual or maybe it could be my “Popeye” arm can’t be hidden in an ugly Christmas Sweater??!! hmmm I enjoyed the lovely Christmas music playing and please someone tell me that “Grandma got ran over by a Reindeer” will never become a Classic?? The packages are delivered I think my home is the hub for every relative within 100 miles?? and I think maybe now we are ready to Celebrate the Birth of our Savior. Susan, I’m ready for you to tap me I’m to exhausted to stay awake to even watch a Christmas movie….zzzzzz
YOu need a nap, you deserve one, put your feet up, turn on an old movie (my idea of bactine for the soul) and then just drift away to dreamland. xoxo
Deborah, you asked how you could stir and test soft ball stage at the same time? That is why God gave you TWO arms and hands: to multi-task! 🙂 Seriously, your fudge must be wonderful! Could you time it and next year just cook it that long or can fudge be affected by humidity/temperature? I make caramels and I just time it and watch the candy thermometer. Just remember, don’t let the tip rest on the bottom of the pan! I seriously hope the song “Santa Baby” won’t become a classic, either! 🙂
The fudge is a hit Pat and it has always been my favorite Christmas treat (being a good girl this year and resisting)…I did use my two hands it is just nerve wracking and hard to stir bubbling liquid and not hitting the thermometer is all I meant. I LOVE caramels and bet they are delicious hope you are getting your baking done. My sister and Angela just finished making the chocolate chip cookies some with coconut and they smell divine. I have to admit I normally do not have trouble leaving sweets alone it is Christmas but not worth the outcome!!
Aren’t there candy thermometers that have a clip on them, that you clip to the side of the pan? Pat’s caramels are SO GOOD!
Yes, they do have clips mine is an antique I think haha my sweet daughter said “Mother, wouldn’t a digital thermometer work”….I could see the wheels turning here comes a digital one my way for the annual festive fudge!!! (fingers crossed)……and I’m sure the caramels are delish.
I just made your “Spiced Pecans” recipe! Wowee!! I’m having a difficult time not eating them all!!
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
That is truly the only problem with them! Great on salads too!
Such a joy to see this blog! I keep running (well, actually strolling, I don’t run anymore) in to reread, & reread this blog, then I run (stroll) out of the room to get back to Christmassing. Love the pantry tour, thank you! And your home looks beautiful, inside & out! “Our” diary is coming along nicely! Can hardly wait! Susan you always give us great comfort & joy, we are blessed! Thank you! xoxo P.S. Say, Jo(e)y, aka “Honey on the Floor” – think of a coffee table this way: close to the floor, within your reach, capable of holding all kinds of beverages, & a wonderful spot for trays of nibbles!
You girls have the best ideas!
…we try…..
Your house is beautiful!! I love the carpet! Jack is a beauty. Love his antics. Merry Christmas!!!
Hello Susan,
Your home is so inviting and looks so calm. We haven’t reached “all is calm” at our home just yet. Still sewing like crazy to turn a Salvation Army dress, junque shop veil and Goodwill slip into a dress-up bridal outfit requested by our 4 year old granddaughter. I’m trying to make it as poufy, twirly and sparkley as possible, because too much frou-frou is never too much for her!
Susan, you captured such a darling encounter between Jack and the deer. Reminded me of the children’s book “Stranger in the Woods?”
That stack of finished pages of your book made me so excited. Anticipation is such a joy! Thanks for all the sneak peeks. And, thanks also for the little bells video…….that was lovely. If it’s true that the joy you give away comes back to you some day (and I believe it is true!) then your stocking will be bulging on Christmas morning. I know my appreciation and admiration will be tucked down in the toe. Happy Eggnogdrinkingcookiemuchingmistlletoekissingandblessingcounting! As always, DonnaRay
I want that wedding dress! You are a good Grandma! xoxo Merry Christmas!
Oh how wonderful to gaze at the wonderful Christmas decor! Mine is pretty thin this year – the husband that was ill passed away on December 16th. I am sad but surviving. Family and friends are always in touch with me and at my side. I am so fortunate. I miss him terribly. Losing a husband is the pits!! However, I have gone shopping with my daughter for those little guys gifts, kissy faced my 5 month old grand-daughter and visited my friends. Last night was going around town to enjoy Christmas lights – nothing gets you in the spirit like wonderful yard decorations. I lovedlovedloved your pantry!!!! Thank you so much for sharing. I love your wing-back chairs in the living room. And Joe on the floor just made my day (LOL)! I am wishing everyone a wonderful holiday. I was so blessed this year with a trip to England and my favorite blog with great people. Merry Christmas from Paso Robles! XXXXOOOO Pat
Oh dear Pat. I am so sorry. I didn’t realize it was that bad. I’m sure you miss him, I can’t even imagine. But even in this comment, and from the way I know you already, I feel the joy of life so completely inside you that almost nothing could take it away. That is a true blessing. Sending Christmas love to you xoxo so sorry dear friend.
Dear Pat, I think all our hearts ache for you, and I pray that lifts your burden somewhat. In the midst of pain, there is still comfort. Susan is right, you have strength and joy inside you that will carry you through. You will have a wonderful Christmas–different, but blessed. xox too, sandy 🙂
Dear Pat,
I, too, am so sorry for your loss. Yes, losing a husband MUST be the pits!! I am glad you have family and friends around you–that is wonderful medicine. And don’t forget your SB Girlfriends as well. I’ll be thinking of and praying for you–for strength and healing and inner peace and joy. Merry Christmas from South-eastern PA!
Love ya!
Linda
Hi Pat! so sorry for your lost – you will be in my thoughts and prayers!!!!!
Dear Pat,
Thinking of you, and sending you prayers for comfort. I am so very sorry about your husband. Sounds like your family and friends are keeping their arms wrapped around you…..and the smiles of your sweet baby grand-daughter hopefully will help your healing.
Please be gentle with yourself, and give yourself time to reflect and remember.
Christmas Hugs.
Deb
Sweet Pat, my thoughts are with you! I’m sorry for the lose of your husband. I admire your grace, as your are so obviously full of love and gratitude, even in the midst of heart break. ❤
Love to you,
Tawni Urrutia
Dear Pat…thinking of you and praying for your peace of heart and comfort from those around you. The Christmas Crib holds much strength for you at this time. A Blessed New Year to you.
I hope when I wake up there will be snow on the ground…there was a little bit this morning, then it melted. The forecast is calling for it. I’ll be thinking of you, in your kitchen, hoping for snow, too. Wouldn’t it make things pretty…the lights more sparkly?
It IS time to get caught up…caught up in excitement and the magic that only Christmas can bring. Lots of wrapping to do, some baking, some grocery shopping, some cleaning, some spicy pecans to put in jars for my gfs. And starting tonight, I look forward to it all! It’s been a very long week, a heart-wrenching jolt of reality…but I will honor those sweet children just as you suggested…by honoring my inner child and by sharing our family traditions with our 1 yr. old granddaughter.
Wishing you and all those you adore a very Merry Christmas, Sue! You are a such a sweet person and a welcoming, warm light on this, the shortest day of the year.
xoxoDebbie
And now, we are on our way back, heading again for the longest day of the year, each day a few more seconds of blessed light! Yay! Thanks Debbie, Merry Christmas to you!
I am looking out my window, watching the cardinals and the woodpeckers at the feeder, and thinking “Maybe I should be more careful when I wish for something.” hahaha…We got snow all right….several inches and very blizzardy conditions! If you don’t have it yet….it’s coming!
Making me squeal!
Thanks again so much for sharing your lovely home and inspiring blog with us. I love every minute I spend at your house. Can’t wait for the English Diary. I wish you, Joe, and kitties a very Merry and Blessed Christmas.
Merry Christmas Crystal!
I think Joe is ordering your Christmas present online in that photo. It looks like new galoshes from LLBean. I hope they are in a color you like…and Joe, as for that coffee table. The name is old-fashioned, not really needed for coffee anymore. See all those things on yours? Now picture them without the table. Now you get it, eh?
LOL. I should have explained it that way. Harder to move lots of teeny tea things than one big table!
This year has had some major ups and downs in my personal life and I am truly grateful to have the opportunity to immerse myself in your adventures through your blog- thank you, thank you for sharing and reminding me to celebrate the tiniest aspects of life. There are no mundane or boring parts of life, only mundane and boring outlooks. Haved a blessed Christmas and a joyful New Year.
Well said, Marilyn! Merry Christmas!
My sis-in-law gave us little Santa mugs in our stockings last year…very cute, but awkward to drink out of! Your photo gave me an idea of what to do with them…I’m going to put little floral displays in them. Thanks.
They’re kind of funny for drinking … the opening is a little small. Very good for little plant!
Or small candy canes!!
Hi Susan
Thanks for the lovely post. I love the Santa mug. I have two that are very similar except that my Santa is winking. We used to have a set of the angel chimes too, but I have no idea where they went.
And thanks for the pictures of little Jack-he is so cute and adorable.
You are making amazing progress on the England book. Be sure to give yourself a litle break over the holidays.
Merry Christmas to you and your family and also to all the girlfriends.
Merry Christmas Susan!
Oh, Susan, I can’t tell you how happy I am to see your tulip bowls. I’m sure you have a nesting set. I have a set too, but only three. The smallest one broke years before I inherited them. Mine are packed away right now, but just seeing yours fills my heart with joy. Thanks so much for sharing. Merry Christmas!
I really only have the one! But that’s enough to “take me home!” Merry Christmas Lynn!
Lynn, I, too, saw that tulip bowl and squealed! Although I don’t have one I see them in antique malls and love them, but they are very expensive so I just look at them longingly. I have only seem them in groups of three so I was surprised when you said that one of your 4 broke! Enjoy your set whenever they come our of hibernation!
Linda
* Good Morning Susan * First Saturday of Winter 2012
“Catching Up…Christmas Joy” It’s a lovely new Blog…filled with wonderful news about your book…130 pages completed and counting, the delightful gathering of the Cardinals, a little peek at the “heart of the home” pantry, your gorgeous Christmas Tree, Angel chimes and of course, photos of darling Jack (and Iris too). With all that you posted for us, you have indeed let us “Catch Up and share some Christmas Joy!
(Thank-you).
If I may, I would like to step back a bit to your prior Post, “I’m just One Person”; I didn’t get a chance to comment on it ’til now. I’ll keep it general and not be specific, because, after all, this is a new Blog and you and 99.99 % of the girlfriends have already covered, quite eloquently, what had to be said, politically and morally.
Susan, I applaud you for the courage to speak up about what is in your heart. I applaud you for your fairness to all of the Girlfriends comments, some of whom, I think, (.01%) were a bit harsh with you. I applaud you for your passion to stand up for what is right and not back down from the truth!
I guess you could say I’m on: “Team Susan”.
Holiday Hugs from,
* Dorothy Ann on Cougar Mountain, Washingon *
Nice to hear that Dorothy Ann.. we still have girlfriends leaving comments there. It woke us up, that’s for sure! Happy Weekend on Cougar Mountain!
Dear Dorothy Ann,
Merry Christmas, dear friend! I hope your days right now are filled with lots of joy and excitement. Dare I ask if your daughter might be coming to see you??
In our corner of the world, the skies are dark and the clouds low, it’s blustery out there–a stray leaf swirls past, then I hear the wind whistling around the corners of our home. On occasion, the sun peaks through–like right now–but it won’t shine for very long. No snow, but one can always live in hope! All that to say that turning on the various lights I have around our house is a very nice pick-me-up on these dark days.
But I am excited b/c family will be here. We all are going to my only sibling’s–a sister–house on Sunday for a big old-fashioned meal. Then Christmas eve and day with our boys and their wives.
Do you have any special plans? I wish you the very best memories during this special time of year. I am so glad I’ve gotten to know you through these postings!
Love,
Linda
* Hello Linda from Lancaster *
Merry Christmas to you too.
What a sweet post you sent to me on the 22nd. I’ve been enjoying all your posts to Susan and the Girldfriends…they are always a delight to read.
The way you described your little corner of the world with its dark sky and clouds, is quite beautiful and dramatic and I’m thinking, it’s really a true winter scene there in Lancaster, with snow, I’m sure, to come very soon.
What lovely plans you have…with your family…you’ll have a wonderful get-together-Christmas! Tell me all about it.
Yes, Ron and I do have plans, Christmas Eve, just the two of us, opening gifts, and talking on the phone to our daughter and son-in-law and our families, who live far, far away.
Then, Christmas Day, spending it here at home, with friends for lunch and dessert, Hot Chocolate and Lattes (whipped cream on top, of course), freshly baked Chocolate Madeleines and Susan’s Coconut/Lemon Cake, with that special Fluffy-Marshmallow Frosting. I decorated the top of the cake with lemon slices and sugar cherries. Looks so festive. (Thanks Susan for the recipe!).
Alas, no, our daughter, Tracey Ann and her darling husband, Steve, will not be flying here for Christmas, but they will be here right after the New Year. I’ll have to bake another Coconut Layer cake for them!
OHMYGosh! Linda! You had a “Santa Sighting” Lucky you!
You know, Linda, it’s a joy meeting you and all the girlfriends, through this amazing circle of friendship that Susan has gathered us all into. Each one of Susan’s Posts is wonderful and the comments, from our girlfriends, to Susan and to each other are so very special, funny, clever, sometimes sad and always thoughtful. Susan, You and all the Girlfriends are quite an incredible bunch. I’m so very happy and proud to know you all.
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Love from,
* Dorothy Ann on Cougar Mountain, Washington *
P.S. Linda, From time to time I do reply to your posts. The most recent one was on December 3rd, a direct reply to yours of December 1st. Check it out. I believe you’ll find it on Susan’s “Banner/Garlands” page.
A very Happy Christmas to you, Joe and the kitties. God bless.
You too Arlinda!
…Hah !!…I get it..you both reminded me of a sweet winter-time memory of when we were kids and my dear Dad would move the coffee table and we would put pillows on the floor, lie on our tummies, and watch the magical fire and dream…wide awake..!!!!…loved it!!..thanks for the sweet memory..have a great Saturday,you two !!
Nice memory Mary! Happy Saturday!
Thank you so much for the pictures of the cardinals! I have always wanted to see cardinals in person and this was the next best thing. I did see a shadowy flutter of a cardinal last summer when we visited the East Coast, but I am counting that as only 1/2 of a sighting. Merry Christmas to you, Joe, and the fur-babies!
Half a sighting! LOL, you are the same kind of stickler as I am. Once someone gave me a piece of red seaglass. I have longed to find red seaglass and this girlfriend know it. She was so sweet to give it to me. BUT, I didn’t find it. So it was really only a half sighting, a shadowy flutter of a red seaglass! 🙂
Susan, you know how much I long for finding ANY color of seaglass and I will always remember you telling me that it doesn’t count unless I find it…(I agree)…anyway, I’m ordering Jim some slippers from L.L. Bean the other night and when they arrived they had a book inside and what to my amazement do you think I find on one of the pages….a wreath made entirely of Sea Glass?? I won’t lie and tell you that I didn’t consider it for a second; but, I thought of you and Joe and how maybe that would be a great project for him over the Winter?? Here is how the description read: Crafted from tumbled glass, this distinctive wreath brings the shades of the sea into any room. Each piece of glass is handwired onto a metal frame that comes ready to hang. Now, they used hues of blues from the palest to a teal. The price was marked down from $99 to $89.99. I couldn’t help but think in an area such as where you live and find it all the time wouldn’t a wreath made with a rainbow of colors make a nice accent piece?? Just a thought.
It sounds beautiful, and a good way to use the pieces we find on the beach! Someday I should do a giveaway of Martha’s Vineyard sea glass … but I’m still not sure it would count — what do you think?
I agree…..the treasure comes from the find. I can’t imagine walking along and finding a piece of sea glass heaven forbid a red heart shaped. Be still my heart.
My girlfriend found that exact thing! Joe and I have bought a bottle of red rum specifically for the red glass which we broke,and threw into the ocean. Of course, it went to the Bahamas or something, we never saw any of it!
One day you and Joe will be taking your daily stroll and there will be a piece of “your” red sea glass in the shape of a heart!!! Maybe Valentine’s Day?? How special would that be.
Would be very wonderful! We are always looking!
I love beach glass…I lived by the sea for the first thirteen years of my life in England. I didn’t collect it, but I should have! I especially liked the teal colored pieces. Loved how smooth they were. I don’t know about the other girlfriends, but this one would love a piece of Martha’s Vineyard beach glass included in a giveaway. Nice touch!
Oh that’s good to know!!
How do you display soooo much without it looking cluttered? There are so many points of interest and they all somehow complement one another. We have a small house – all my “stuff” looks like piles or I’m in the middle of cleaning out a closet or two! I just love “visiting” you! You’re such an inspiration! Merry Christmas!!
That’s a good question! Here’s how clutter happens at our house — We’ll use my dish cupboard as an example: I clean it, make it perfect, nothing looking crowded up there and it’s good. Then I see a cute picture of us in a frame that I haven’t seen in a long time, and I set it there. Then a card comes from a friend, and up it goes. Joe drops off the camera lens and some loose change. We go for a walk, suddenly we have shells and beach glass there too. That’s how it happens. So I clear it all off. In the rest of the house, it’s the same thing — just constantly adding little things until it’s way too much … it happens so slowly I sometimes don’t notice, and then suddenly I see it and go…yikes! I often take everything out of a room except for the furniture, then put one piece back at a time, until there’s just the right amount. The rest of it, I cuthroatedly put in a box and away for when I want to “redecorate.” That’s how I do it! Sometimes clutter seems to reach up and hit my insanity button … Christmas can do that for me, and by the time it’s over, I will be happy to have my serenity rooms back again!
haha, Susan, love that–“here’s how clutter happens…” so true,but that phrase just made me laugh!
Thank you for sharing all of the photos of your beautiful house — and I LOVE your cat, Jack! Merry Christmas!!
Martha from CT
Merry Christmas to you Martha!
It truly is the most wonderful time of year. Merry Christmas, Susan! The book looks lovely. Can we pre-order it already? 🙂
Very soon Marcia, after the first of the year!
HOORAY!!
:-)!
Thank you so much for this post, Susan. There are times in my life when I go to my favorite blogs (yours being #1) to calm myself, to gain a different perspective & just to be comforted. I’ve lost a lot of my zeal for things, circumstances beyond my control have taken their toll, but your blog (& Willard!) always give me a boost 🙂
Love the quizzical look on Jack’s face while looking at the deer – couldn’t have been more perfect!
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to you & your family.
By the way, I love the quotes you “quote” & the way you paint them. Would love a small book of just those (or a BIG book!), or maybe free printables to use on cards & such. Just a thought.
I’ve always thought of doing that! Time, love it, hate it. Love what we have, want more! 🙂
I am so happy to hear that Marilyn! Merry Christmas to you too, and here’s to a much better 2013!
Lovely “Jack” decorations, may we please, please, please have a video of jack doing something? Thank you!
I’ll tell him, let’s see if he’s in the mood!
sleeping is even a quite acceptably adorable video 🙂
We could probably DO that! 🙂
Hi, Susan and all,
I think Joe might get a chuckle out of this, a woman’s logic: How can you have a proper afternoon TEA without a COFFEE table????
Blessings at Christmas,
Ann in NC
Logic!
Okay, Susan and Girlfriends–
don’t be jealous but this morning around 10:00 I saw Santa Claus!! Yep, I did. I don’t know how he does it, but every Saturday before Christmas he comes to our small town. He rides on a horn honking firetruck, going on every road and in every neighborhood inviting children to the Christmas party at our community fire house. I hear the horn honking way before he actually reaches our neighborhood, but when he does I am at the window or on the porch waving to him. This morning it was awfully cold and windy, but there he was standing toward the back of the truck! Waving to me and I waved back! (My husband rolls his eyes, but I can’t help it!!)
Merry Christmas to all and to all a good year!!
But I am jealous. You are so lucky!!! Merry Christmas Linda!
Oh Linda, we have the same thing happen here in Lodi! All through the month of December, Santa rides on top of a huge Christmas light laden ladder truck waving and shouting Christmas greetings. The truck is blairing Gene Autry and packed with fire fighters handing out candy canes! We all love it, young and old alike.
Merry Christmas Linda!
❌⭕❌⭕, Tawni Urrutia
What fun! I was hoping that Santa has time to go to a few other places before Christmas besides my town!!
Merry Christmas, Tawni!
Linda
After reading your blog for the umpteenth time, it occurred to me that your new ‘thing’ might be travel books with a smattering of recipes. I predict this book will be a hugh success and it might be a fun direction…downside, you would miss your kitties too much and your wonderful house.
Seeing Alice made me think of my trip to England. At the end of the trip we took the train from London to a charming little ‘typical’ English village, and drove to the quaintest two-story stone house beside a little river, surrounded by stone walls, to pick up my 3mos. old Wire-haired fox terrior. That dog, on the 17 hour flight home was better, under my seat, than all the children put together on the plane.
I live in a wonderful town in Southern Oregon, along the banks of the wild Rogue River. As a child I used to walk, bare-footed to the wonderful old ivy-covered library where in the basement they had the childrens section. I can still remember the smell of all those treasured books, just waiting to be read and carry you to some far-away land or exiting adventure. To my anquish, our town decided to tear it down and build a new one….which had no character at all. And they also did it to an old bank with marble floors and counters and two lions laying down outside. The character of a town is in it’s old (huge) trees and wonderful character-laden buildings. Thank heavens England and most of Europe and (New England!), doesn’t feel the need to ‘modernize’ every chance it gets. I guess that’s what we love about it. Well I got carried away!!! Your picture of Alice (wonderfully painted) set me off!!
I think everyone is more aware of the old things than they used to be, not so quick to cut down an old tree or tear down a building like the one you wrote about. Thank goodness. I will never forget the tunnel of, I don’t even know what they were, I feel like they were pepper trees, that hung over street near where I grew up … it was wonderful to drive through there, always felt like magic, being inside the trees, and one day, we went up there, and they were GONE. Cut down to make room for who knows what. I was shocked. Even at that young age I knew that couldn’t be right. xoxo Karen!
Your looks wonderful, but that’s what I would expect to think. I’ve loved our artwork since I first saw the recipes in Country Living. I had so many magazines that I finally had to only keep what I liked best and those recipes were kept! Safe in protective sleeves. I really do need to get them out and frame them. I always thought I could change them with the season.
I think the coffee table is just in Joe’s way and it’s not much use explaining to him why you need one. It looks like he doesn’t need any chairs either, only a tall footstool. Wink, wink. I went back and looked at the pictures again. The table is in his way, he moved it closer to the sofa. That’s really funny. Thank you for sharing everything.
Yes, he did … 🙂
Once again, thank you for sharing your lovely home… your most enchanting decorations… and your holiday love with us Susan. Now–would you please send some of those cardinals down to New Jersey? I used to have families of them in my yard and, ever since the hurricane, they’ve all disappeared. I haven’t seen or heard even one in months. My window feeder is filled with sunflower seeds, and no sweet red birds. (The squirrels are actually climbing on my house to get at the seeds. Determined little critters.)
Much love to you, Joe, your furbabies (and your cardinals) this Christmas season.
I will try!
Susan, since it is the Season to Share I couldn’t help but think about this from a comment I read yesterday from a girlfriend that asked you if you had help to keep your lovely home so neat and orderly. I remember this question asked of you awhile back and how to encouraged “us” to think about having someone come in to give us a break. Well, far be it for me to normally “one up” you but on this topic I’m afraid I am going to have to…..3 years ago I managed to get 24/7 “live in” help…..JIM (retirement)….LOL Gotcha didn’t I….I have to admit my darling husband when needed can do the laundry, dishes, vacuums, not to mention the yardwork and is just a blessing; oh, and he works for FOOD….a win/win for ME….YAY!!!!
What a doll … tell him we are saying Merry Christmas .. he works for food, really, who could ask for more!
Your home is so warm and ready!!! So Love It! And, that bird next to your kitchen door is adorable. Maybe we should find out about getting some of those for the web store…too cute! Happy weekend, dear Sue. ♥ peg
OK Peg!!! xo Merry Christmas!
Hi Susan, I recently found your blog and enjoy everything about it. I went to an antique store right after I found your blog and the lady had lots of old issues of the Country Side magazines, way back to the early 80’s. As I was looking through them I noticed a ‘pantry’page with recipes and with similar writing and drawings I thought I had seen recently on someone’s blog. 🙂 and the same initals. That evening I went to your blog and it was you. I have enjoyed looking back at these wonderful magazines. I have not bought one in a very long time, but do you still write that page for them?
I look forward to your diary coming soon. Many blessings and peace unto you and yours.
In Joy,
vivian king
Hello Vivian .. nice to meet you! Was that maybe Country Living? Not sure of Country Side … I don’t write for them anymore; but I’m glad it brought you here!.
Susan, yes, I did mean Country Living. ( I use to get Country Side mag too.)
I took gifts of your Christmas jam to my coworkers yesterday. I placed it in small jars and added a gold foil label to the top that said “Home-Made”. (Michael’s Crafts carries the labels), then put each one in a Christmassy print cellophane bag and tied with gold or silver twist ties and added a small black and white printed luggage-tag type card to it with my initial “J” stamped on it. It made a very nice presentation, and oh, I also put a small white doily in the bag under each jar. Really dressed it up and made it more of a “gift”. Thank you Susan,the jam is absolutely delish!!
How nice Judy! Such a sweet thing to do for your coworkers!
Joe looks very comfortable next to the fire. Can’t say I blame him for his choice of resting place!
The house looks lovely, the chain idea is great… And unique! I wonder if you could add some of the fruits I saw in Williamsburg to something like that… Although Osage orange might be too heavy, the dried ones might work.
The diary looks wonderful, I can’t wait for it to be ready!
You could add anything you want as long as the nails hold the chain … anything with a hook, any that could be woven into the links.
You mentioned that it was 38 degrees Farenheit there today,well we have 38 degrees celsius here today in Melbourne. Would love to experience a winters Christmas some time.
Someday, maybe you could arrange for a house in the snow for the holidays, you will love it! There is no better decoration than snow!
What a very festive post! I loved seeing your house, and all the particulars! 🙂
I adore seeing Jack, and Joe, and can’t wait for the book to come out!!
…Good Morning !!…have you seen this Christmas story from New Zealand yet ?…everytime I see it I laugh and cry at the same time !!…how does that happen ?!?… this you should see : youtube.com/embed/kWq60oyrHVQ?rel=0 …
Wonderful Mary!!! Thank you! xoxo
Love it! Thank you!
Silly Joe, of course we need coffee tables- our mothers and grandmothers had them, so we need them too ! It is a good place to feature things that we love, to make our living rooms so adorable that we can’t help but smile ! xo Judy
That probably explains everything, our moms and grandmothers had them, and we want them too. Plus, we learned to play poker around our coffee table, a million wonderful family and friend evenings have taken place around it. And yes, a focal point for the things we love. I don’t know, you have your pros and you have your cons, and I gotta say, for me, the pros win.
Merry Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties! Your home reflects all the magic and beauty that you bring to your postings and books, and keeps the spirit of Christmas alive in all of our hearts. Whenever I need to be inspired or just need a smile, I return to your blog and books for “comfort and joy.” Can’t wait for your English diary to be published! I have so many friends who I know will enjoy it as well. I love going back and reading your postings from England-what a treasure! Have a wonderful holiday!
You too Minette! Thank you !
Jack’s face–priceless. Thank you for the bells video, your enthusiasm for this holiday, and your heart-warming blog.
Have a Merry Christmas Susan and the girlfriends.
Hi Susan, Oh my gosh………love seeing those cardinals…..how sweet is that! I guess the guys eat after their ladies are done. Loved seeing your cozy home. My very favorite thing is your hutch complete with all your dishes and cookbooks on it. I have always wanted one and searched and searched but couldn’t find exactly what I had in mind and now that I live in Fl., I don’t have the room for it. As I look at yours I know exactly how I would do mine. I have a collection of rolling pins (some ceramic and some wood and even one for springerle from Germany) and would stand them in a large mixing bowl for all the world to see! That would be on the bottom like where you have your cookbooks and then I’d have a ball putting all my special things in special places. I’ll have to look around and see what I can do about this. Maybe I have a spot but it hasn’t jumped out at me yet. I do have my cookbooks on bookcases in the family room and on one shelve I have a wooden stand and it says “My favorite things”. Your stockings look so cute and I think yours is the striped one and Joe’s is the checkered one. The trick with the chain I absolutely love. I noticed it at the end and it is so neat and looks super. Your home is so inviting and I can see why you love it. I’m happy you are in MV for Christmas. Being in CA just wouldn’t be the same. I’m wondering what you will serve for Christmas dinner? Since I have turkey for Thanksgiving, it’s a little too soon for my family to have it again at Christmas. I know lots of people do though. Your tree looks beautiful and your home so cozy. It was so cute to see your Joe so comfy laying on the floor with his red socks up on the chair! We wish you both a very Merry Christmas. A big thank you to you, Susan, for all the blogs and great ideas. You are so creative and we all learn a lot from you (and Joe too). God Bless you both and may your New Year be wonderful. With love and best wishes, Gail & Joe Buss, Fl. XXOO
Ok, maybe something else could go? Because I see a lot of fun for you and a new hutch! 🙂 We have a rib roast for Christmas dinner, but growing up, we always had turkey! Merry Christmas Gail!
I’m just getting around to writing to you. Usually, I’m wanting to write right away, but have been very busy with last minute Christmas stuff.
I enjoyed seeing your pantry, Susan. Would love to have one like that. Of course, I love your whole home. farm houses are so cool.
Has Jack found out that the deer on the table isn’t going to hurt him? Just sit and look at him? He has the cutest expersions. Joe looked as though he was relaxing and enjoying himself quite nicely by the fire.
Getting ready for our Christmas service at church and need to go to the store first.
Would you believe that yesterday, we had high winds, rain, hail and snow all at once? We’ve really been having extreme weather this past week. Had a thunderstorm during the evening to boot. I had to laugh, as it was nice and sunny for a bit so went to the store. All this weather that I mentioned happened just as I was leaving the store. Got absolutely soaked going from the car to the house. What a day. Gotta love winter.
Carol M
P.S. Merry Christmas to you Susan, Joe, Jack and Girl Kitty.
Susan & Friends,
Just a quick note to let everyone know that Turner Movie Classics is airing “THE BISHOP’S WIFE” at 8:00-10:00 pm tonight (Sunday, December 23rd). Enjoy if you have a chance to watch!
Pamela Jo
Got it! Thank you !
The film is on again at 1:00 pm today (Dec. 24th)…in case you missed it last night.
Pamela Jo
I watched it! I also watched Sound of Music! And right now, Meet John Doe is just ending and Susan Slept here is going to start! Life is good! Merry Christmas Pamela Jo!
OOPS! That should be Turner Classic Movies…Sorry! Very busy weekend, and I seem to moving too fast for my brain to keep up! Sounds like a good excuse, anyway, doesn’t it?? LOL!
Pamela Jo
Wishing you a magical and glorious Christmas. Thank you for making each and every day so special for me through your words.
Thank you so much Carolyn! xo
Merry Christmas! Laughing about how clutter “happens”. When I start dusting around the clutter will begin using Susan’s idea to move it out for awhile. This blog has grown so much over 2012 that I can’t wait for next year and especially for our book.
So I was wondering. When you use those great quotes in your blog and books, do you need to get the person’s permission to do so? Just thought it would be fun to call Bette Midler ….
Arline in So Cal
I’m pretty sure that if you use them on some sort of product for sale, then you have to ask permission for some of them (not all), if you just give them away, then you don’t. It would be fun to call Bette Midler!
Hi, Dear Sue,
I absolutely loved your whole post. I even convinced my hubby to let me share a little of it with him. He’s with Joe about the coffee table! Men! He and I loved the shots of Jack. I wonder where girl kitty is? However, it was the quotation that you rendered so beautifully that resonated with me the most. You and I are both so lucky to have partners with whom we can feel safe as well as loved. My hub and I are coming up on our 40-year anniversary right after Valentine’s Day, 2013. I am so grateful for the years we’ve had together and selfishly pray for more. Have a blessed Christmas, and let’s pray the new year brings a saner, more compassionate world.
A true blessing! I thank my lucky stars every day, for Joe. Coffee table or not! 🙂 Girl is mostly in her little spot, at the end of our bed, upstairs! Happy and healthy, she comes down to lay on her pillow in my studio sometimes. She’s loving as long it’s in one of those two spots!
Hi Carolyn…Our 44th anniversary is the day after Valentine’s Day. My husband is always reminded that our anniversary is coming up because of all the advertising for Valentine’s Day. It’s a great time to have an anniversary.
Very smart of you to arrange it that way Cathy! 🙂
Susan,
Your blog made me smile! Love that Jack is your number 1 helper. Here’s wishing you a very Merry Christmas! and some snow to make the day sparkle! Hugs Karen C
Loved visiting your home today. Merry Christmas to you!
Now I have one question: How does Jack get up there on that cabinet? My cat wants to know, as he just know there is his feather toy hiding there. All he can do is sit and stare and try to figure out how to get up there.
Jack jumps really high from a non-start position, as far as I can see. He just goes! I turn my back so I don’t see how he gets down… it’s too scary to watch, but he always does.
Hi Susan – thank you for sharing your lovely Christmas home. I made two banners with your inspiration – love them. Sorry for FOSB Pat’s loss of her dear husband on the 16th. But a new life came into the world that same day, my 4th grandchild – a darling little girl named Paige. And I was invited by my daughter-in-law into the labor delivery room to witness the miracle. I was their only guest and felt so honored. So life continues, love continues. This Christmas season we should ALL be thankful for our blessings and pray for those who are missing a loved one, there are so many this year. God bless them.
Congratulations Fabienne! I would feel honored too! xoxo
my husband and I decided this weekend that we will visit England for our 25th wedding anniversary. I have been taking notes from your blog and look forward to your trip diary! wishing you a very merry Christmas.
It was our 25th anniversary too, that we decided to go! I know you will love it! Merry Christmas Janice!
Our coffee pot is acting in a very recalcitrant manner –Jeanie does her voodoo dance too insure that we can have a nice hot cup waiting in the morning?……
Huzzah and yoiks-it worked! Just needed a good boiling out .”.
Did you use vinegar in water? That’s what I heard really does the job…
* Merry Christmas Susan and Joe *
and
*To all of our Girlfriends and their families in the USA and around the World*
I TRULY WISH YOU AND YOURS…BRIGHT HOLIDAYS… FILLED WITH JOYOUS BLESSINGS…GOOD TIDINGS…AND GOOD CHEER!
“Merry Christmas”
“Happy Holidays”
“Happy Hanukkah”
“Happy Boxing Day”
“Happy Proclamation Day”
“Happy St. Stephen’s Day”
With love from,
* Dorothy Ann and Ron on Cougar Mountain, Washington *
The Army , the Navy , all the ships at sea , brownies , bluebirds , boy scouts , cub scouts and even some Republicans ….
Blessed are the peacemakers . . . ♥
Good morning, Susan, on this Christmas Eve morning! What are you and Joe and the kitties doing today and tomorrow? I am fortunate to have 2 sons and daughter-in-law plus her sister here since Saturday and the other son and daughter-in-law joining us tomorrow, so I’m keeping pretty busy. We may get snow here in Maryland the day after Christmas after everyone has gone home! But it will also be nice to lie on the couch by the fire watching the snow fall while enjoying the quiet after all the activity!
We are having a relatively quiet Christmas this year, not our normal table of 23! I am so focused on getting my book done; but today I cook! Making a standing rib roast, cranberry apple crisp, and all the trimmings! Beautiful but cold here today, and Joe already lit a fire. Have a wonderful day, Cathy!
Merry Christmas Dear Susan, Joe, Kitties & All! xoxo
Happy Christmas Eve…
Happy Christmas…
“Auntie”
Merry Christmas Susan!
Thank you Susan, for taking the time today to write to us! I am in a brand new house and have been working to make it ‘just right’. It is Christmas Eve and I am surrounded by things I love and my two precious kitties. Will be with friends tomorrow, but tonight is for enjoying my little tree on the fireplace and my two best friends curled up on the couch beside me reading and waiting for Santa. Merry Christmas to you and your family. Paula G
I love houses, too! This Christmas my two daughters came over to our house while my husband and I were in Florida and put up our entire Snow Village (40 buildings) as a gift! They are beautiful and have not all been on display in years as it seemed like such a large task to me!
What good girls you have Karen! I bet it was wonderful!
Hello Susan,
Your house (home) looks even more lovely, decorated for Christmas!
Our two daughters are cooking and wrapping, getting ready for the
family coming tomorrow. We’re expecting two inches of snow here
in New England so we’re feeding our two pair of cardinals today.
Enjoy this magical time of year!
Merry Christmas to Susan and all the girlfriends! I found your blog a short while ago and feel like I have found a group of kindred spirits. What a joy to know there are so many with similar thoughts, likes and dreams. Susan, you are a dear to share your life and thoughts with us. I do have your Christmas book and love it. Have a blessed holiday to everyone.
Love to see you here Linda!
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU.
Merry Christmas Susan, Joe and the kitties
It snowed here last night in Bethlehem, Pa and everything looks so pretty.
We’re supposed to have a snowy week actually.
Your house looks so pretty.
Sharon
When we get Holly Oak back , first thing is to get a new load of chrushed rock and spread it around that circular front drive — Next we expand the front entry deck and cover it with pretty white carved posts supporting the new roof area and then repaint the entire front — this will dress the place up ……..NEXT , will need a bit more planning /engineering to figure out where the new Barn will best fit into the picture , providing low key and simple elegance , with the most efficient accessibility.
Good dreaming going on here! xoxo
Merry Christmas Susan and Joe, and sweet kitties! My youngest daughter is enjoying a couple of your books while she is on complete bedrest awaiting the birth of her first child. She is a very creative soul, and your books are refreshing her, and inspiring her during this time. Thanks for showing us the wood room….so cozy. I love Christmas night here in our home…..we celebrate in the morning and at noon….so it is quiet now…the fireplace is going…my 2 dogs are resting at my feet….the Christmas tree smells wonderful, and looks so pretty. Thank you for sharing the sweet, simple, and lovely things of home.