HAPPY NEW YEAR GIRLFRIENDS!!! Inserting my New Year Song for you …. What are doing tonight? I’ll see you soon … I’ve been working hard on our book! Happy 2013 to us, one and all!!! XOXO
I thought, on this Christmas Eve, I would love to talk about Home and what it means to me. When I was thirty-three, I moved to Martha’s Vineyard from California, and bought my first house. ♥ Musica?
Having a little house of my own was something I had dreamed of since I was a child.
It was a very small house, which I wrote about and painted often, even in my first book, but it was perfect for me. I lived there alone with my three kitties for six years, learning what it was like to have seasons; I wrote my first three books at the dining room table in this house. I know just how Natalie Wood felt in Miracle on 34th Street. I almost saw Santa’s cane in the corner at Holly Oak when I went in the first time.
The house was in the woods; every day I would walk out the door and down the dirt road next to the house to the water, to the same pond Joe and I walk past every morning now; our walk takes us to the other shore of that same pond. Yes, the house had a name, Holly Oak, on a sign, nailed to a tree, and to me, it was a dream come true. I was so grateful, I really haven’t ever “wanted” anything since, because right then I knew, I had it all. Inside, “out of the wind and the rain’s way,” I could live my little life, plant my garden, feed the birds, make noodles and pie, read my books, raise my kitties to be fine strong young cats. I felt safe there because no one could take it from me. It was HOME. I still have dreams about this little house. ♥
Since then have fallen in love with all houses! And anything attached to them, like children, neighborhoods, porches, gardens, kitties, dogs, squirrels, birds, trees, fences, and I take pictures of them wherever I go. I like big houses, but I like the little ones better.
A house represents family stability, but they seem to me to be filled with mystery. I think of them almost as a person, especially the old ones, 
imbued with the character of lives lived within; I’m pretty sure everything I do in my house adds another layer of character. The newer ones, like my first little house, are like banks, and each holiday, each loving act, each cooking of a dinner, each creative thing done, even every sadness, is a contribution, so when the house is old, it will have character too. The feeding and care of a house is an important thing. Right now houses all over the country are being fed from the heart . . . with welcomes home!, crackling fires, music and colored lights, delicious smells coming from the kitchen, wrapping of gifts, families coming together, the light and excitement in the eyes of children . . . reminiscing about loved ones who are no longer there. That’s what a house is to me. ♥
I’m sure pictures of houses like this were seeds of inspiration to bring me to New England. This house speaks to me of love, comfort, safety, sturdiness, old quilts, corn pudding and pumpkin pie, tradition, surprises under the Christmas tree. Old movies were such an influence on me, the curtains and wallpaper in the movie Dear Ruth, the cottages in Love Letters, Mrs. Miniver’s wonderful house, Diane Keaton’s house in Something’s Got to Give — her farmhouse in Baby Boom. The way to sell me on a movie is to put a good house in it!
Look at the charm these people added to this plain little house. It has to be love.
I take pictures of houses wherever I go, even speeding along on the train, through the window of our “room with a view” when Joe and I travel across the country.
Another photo I took through the train window, of this little neighborhood of colorful houses. I see cup-a-sugar borrowing going on here. I keep waiting, when I show some of the pictures of the houses I love, for one of you to say, “Hey, that’s MY house!” I wouldn’t be a bit surprised! ♥
I took lots of photos of darling cottages in England . . . this one has become a restaurant — don’t you just love restaurants in old houses? New England has lots of them too.
I put a photo of this house, which is next door to Jane Austen’s house in England (because how could I NOT!), on my blog, and Mary, the woman who lives there, DID contact me to say hello and tell me how surprised she was to see her house (and the closeup of her little dog. “Basil,” who was sitting in the window!). The magic of the internet makes it such a small world.
Basil. English super dog.
There are two houses in this picture of our little cottage in California.
And this precious California house . . . I love festive people!
and of course, my own sweet home.
My love for home has branched out beyond actual houses or pictures of houses, to things that are like houses!
On top of my stove right now, I have two houses and a manger.
And this newest one, sent to me by the sweetest person, was added to the stove-top scene just yesterday!
And speaking of houses and home, I have shown you glimpses of my wood room before — it’s the smallest room in our house, a cozy room with wood walls, hence the name “wood room.” It’s where we read, write letters, knit, talk on the phone, watch TV; where I update my diary at night…
. . . but it’s a little hard to photograph, which is the reason I’ve never tried to show it to you . . . it’s so dark, and the flash brings too much glare . . . so forgive the color here. There’s something about this room you may not have noticed, but I’ve just given you two clues . . . do you see it yet?
OK, I’ll tell you . . . it’s just that all the pictures on the wall are of houses. Homey homes, paintings and prints I have either done myself or collected in antique stores.
There are also old photos of the “house of creativity” I was grateful to receive from the previous owners when we moved in. And when we go, we will leave these, with maybe a couple of our own.
So it’s clear, I’m house-crazy with love. There are more pictures, above the hutch and on the other side of the door, but it’s too dark to see them … there’s also a small wood box, shaped like a house, where the roof opens, that I brought with me when I moved to the island; there’s house-shaped candle in there too . . .
Not that I really need very much to make the wood room cozy after this person settles in. ♥
Because there is nothing that cozies up a house more than a sweet little petty pet of one’s own.
So, of course, when I make a gingerbread house, it’s not very big and it’s not just a house, it’s a home.
These are dreams from my diary written (in the bad handwriting) long ago; I was just making a note. Writing things down is a way to make them come true. ♥ A good way to start the new year.
And that dream, though not finished, is still in the process of coming true — so far, so good! So what would you think a person who was writing her first book in the firelight and Christmas-tree light inside this little house would decide to name it? It would have to be something about the home. And the kitchen, and the heart, and the connection between those things . . . of course! Heart of the Home! Why didn’t I think of that? Oh! I did!
You probably have everything you always wanted for Christmas right now, a little house of your own, out of the wind and the rain’s way. But just in case . . . I have this book, and it’s looking for a new home! So, if you don’t have my first book, or if you know someone you would like to give it to . . . leave a comment! There are lots of good recipes in there! After the first of the year, Vanna will draw a name, I will sign the book, and off it will go to the Heart of your Home. You can leave as many comments as you like, because Vanna knows to only count each address once. And I think I’ll come back every so often this week, and change the music, and give us a little musical tour.
And now? Me and Jack? We’re going to go cook up a storm. Love and Blessings to you and yours and a wish for Peace for every little house on Earth.♥
Sending furry high fives. xoxo
Love, love this post. Growing up in England, I have had a love affair with houses for as long as I can remember. I love to look at them, visit people’s houses (love to see how they decorate (especially if they look like yours Susan). I have cross-stitched them, I have a tiny bone china house (so detailed) that must be about 1″ x 1″, some primitive type wooden houses (bought a set years ago from the catalog Persnickety. Anyone remember that? If a book has a cozy house on it’s cover, I know it will be a good read! I love movies that feature great or small homes and really, anything to do with them. I am just drawn to houses…….nothing too grand, the cozy farmhouse or cottage style is what I like best. Thank you Susan for your enchanting posts, they just keep getting better and better if that’s possible. Looking forward to 2013! Can’t wait for the English diary and a peep into your first tiny home! Merry Christmas!
I’m so glad I had your books when my girls were little. I have sweet memories of Annie’s sugar cookies, bells on baby shoes, and tying ribbons everywhere, even on the cats!
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas from the bayous of South Louisiana! I just knew we were in for a real treat this Christmas Eve morning but WOW!! Your posting was beyond amazing. I can’t add anything to what everyone else has already said, except thank you from the bottom of my Heart (from my Home). We looked, hoped and prayed for many years for an “old” home and 11 years ago we were blessed…well,somedays it felt more like cursed…lol Lots of blood,sweat and tears into our 1901 Acadian cottage. Four long years of renovations before we actually moved in. We are making wonderful new memories with our 8 grandbabies but still feel the past as present as ever in the heart of this home. Teaching our babies to respect and honor that. We call our home “The Old Girl”. Don’t you just feel so sorry for people who don’t truly get it when it comes to our love for “homes”? Finding your blog this past year has been one of the greatest joys in my life. Thank you for sharing yourself with all of us…the girlfriends…forever connected in spirit and love of home! Be blessed my friend….you, and Joe, are very special people and we all love you guys!! Would LOVE to have y’all visit us one day in Cajun Country. Just say when!!
I don’t have my own place just yet – but am gaining much inspiration from your blog! I’m snuggling up with my kitty and wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas! 🙂
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Thank you so much for sharing hearth and home. I had always thought myself eclectic in taste, preferring older things to new or modern, because of the story behind them. Before I started following you, I was collecting vintage linen, old silver, ephemera, even pieces of old lace, and doilies. It’s nice to know I’m not alone. Thank you for bringing like-minded people together.
Merry Christmas Susan, Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack!
I enjoyed your reflection on houses and remembering one I loved — especially at Christmas with it’s decorations, laughter of friends and their love. I didn’t want to have to leave it. 17 years and I still miss that home! I left a part of me there and it’s a wonderful memory.
Merry Christmas Susan and Joe and Girl Kitty and Jack! Thanks for all the joy and happiness you share here♥ xoxo
Susan, I to have had my dreams answered. My husband and I are going to restore a old farmhouse. It is over one hundred years old. I love it so much. Right now it is a mess. Racoons and dirt dobbers have made it there home. Since we are both well into our sixties we will have to work a day and rest two. What an adventure!
A wonderful project!
Carol lee: Thanks for sharing this. You give me hope! We’re in our early 60’s and living in a townhouse, the first home we’ve owned but I long for a house. I want a house with character–not a “1960’s box”. We NEED more room–I am a weaver and spinner and need room for my looms and spinning wheels, not to mention sewing machine, etc. And we both have enough books to open our own branch library! Not to mention a couple of schnauzer-kids who sure could use a yard! A friend of mine who lives in a house recently, when I longingly referred to someday getting a house, said, Surely you aren’t thinking of leaving your townhouse for a house!” Well, I feel we haven’t had a chance to have a house yet! But sometimes I get scared that if we don’t soon, we will be too old! Sometimes I feel like we are running out of life time. But I don’t see it happening in the near future… 🙁 So, thanks for the encouragement! Maybe there is still time to move into a house…and we aren’t crazy to be thinking about it! 🙂
Hi Susan, I love this post. Well, it seems I love them all. My husband and I are in our third house. I have had favorite things about each house. My current house is old, has a great porch, and a third floor, that is my room to craft, etc. I feel like I am in a treehouse up there. This year I made little felted wool Christmas trees and it was so much fun! The best thing about my house is that I feel content when I am home… Possible snow here tonight into tomorrow morning! A snowy Christmas Eve, what could be better! Cooking pork roast and cranberries for Christmas dinner. Merry Christmas to you and all of the SB girlfriends!
Sandy, We are having a snowy Christmas eve right now! I love that you described your home to us–the third floor sounds very cozy, indeed! And pork roast and cranberries, oh, I can smell it from here.
A very Merry Christmas, to you dear Sandy!
Linda
The moment I laid eyes on your book I knew I had to have it…Port of Call/Pasadena except it was the store in Palos Verdes….long ago. It has been a treasure ever since. Your Christmas book is out for perusing and decoration all during the holiday season…. Autumn before it. Thank you for the gift of focusing me back to what is most important. Wishing you a joyous Christmas! Each holiday luncheon and dinner guest has received one of your downloadable bookmarks these last two weeks plus the ones I sent to each member of two special family friends (one with ten children and their spouses). Thanks again for that too.
God bless us all:>) Judy Tracy, Newport Beach, CA
Merry Christmas!!! I also love my “LITTLE” house – it isn’t very big, but I have every nook and cranny filled with things I love. We moved to Indiana from California so we could afford to buy our own home and we’ve been here for 24 years. I do miss Rhode Island, my true home, but Indiana is a great replacement.
Susan, thank you for a year of inspiring, creative and most enjoyable writings. It has been my habit to check in daily for my Susan Branch “fix”. Your holiday posts have all been delightful and your comments on current events are always thoughtful and true. Merry Christams to you and your “family” of four.
Dear Susan. I know just what you mean. All my life, I dreamed of having a HOME. I grew up in apartments and town homes, rented spaces that we didn’t own. I wanted a garden and a swing set, things you couldn’t have when you didn’t own the place. This past year, my husband and I bought our first home together. It’s small and filled to the brim with kitties and children, but we love it so much. There’s something so wonderful about filling it up with baking smells, with Christmas decorations, with scribbled pictures in my daughter’s favorite colors. It’s such a lovely feeling to curl up in thick blankets at night and to feel so SAFE. Eventually we’ll have to move when we have more children but for right now, I’m finally home 🙂 I hope you have a wonderful Christmas Susan!
It sounds like the house I grew up in! Happy Christmas to you all Shanon!
Happy Christmas Susan! Probably won’t have time to be online tomorrow – both of our boys will be here for the day and then we are all heading to Vermont at the end of the week to visit my husband’s family. I agree with you about houses – we’ve been in the same one for 25 years. You should see the beautiful ones in PEI. I have a doll house that is waiting for me to start making it – A 2013 project!
Wow! This is just the thing I’ve been looking for. I was given this book for my wedding shower 22 years ago. Unfortunately during a kitchen renovation all of my cookbooks were boxed and mistakenly put out with the trash. I was heartbroken to find out that that book and several others were in that box. So over the last several years I’ve been trying to get copies of those favorite cookbooks. I’ll keep my fingers crossed and hope my name is chosen.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas from Woodbury Ct.
Happy Christmas Eve day~~~~~
Should I dare say that this blog is “homey”? I love all those New England homes….. we don’t have that many on the west coast. But, I should say that Eureka has tons of Victorian homes. Just wish that not so many have been turned into apartment complexes and given to neglect. So sad!
I’m so glad that you were able to take a picture of your “wood” room! It does look so cozy! Kinds of reminds me of a cabin…. dark, small, cozy, full of stuff and life!
I’m looking forward to the next give away in the new year!! Some lucky “girlfriend” will be starting the new year out just right. I don’t have any of your books…. am a late starter of being a fan of yours. Wish I had known long ago what I was missing. I plan on catching up with your books though. Have enjoyed your calendars these past 3 or 4 years though.
Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to you and yours. May God make this Christmas a special one with all his love and grace.
Carol M
As always Susan you have a wonderful way of putting everybody in the “Spirit of things” whether it be the Christmas Spirit, Winter Spirit, Spring Spirit, Fall Spirit….I could go on and on! I especially love old homes, too! I would love to give your book a new home! We are expecting snow later today! Perfect for putting anyone in the Christmas Spirit! Well I must be off…goodies to bake, and preparations to do before kids and grandkids arrive. Merry Christmas to you and Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack!
Oh Susan, happy tears!!!! We are connected heart-to-heart in so many ways! I bought my little home 25 years ago when I was single. When I drove by and saw this little house with the swing on the front porch, I started to cry. It was only on the market for 15 minutes! I knew this would be my little home ~ and if I would take care of it, it would take care of me. The sweet little woman who lived here even planted flowers for me before she left. When I came “home” after the closing, I found a cane standing in the corner of the guest room closet! Really!! It still makes me cry just to think about it!! I had found the perfect home for me. Over the years, my dad came to help me restore my little home. Together we stripped the woodwork, built a pantry, and we built your picket fence garden for my herbs. One thing I haven’t changed is my wood room, with walls covered in beautiful knotty pine. I call it the “keeping room” because it holds so many special things ~ especially books. When I met John and we were married four years ago, he came to share my heart and my little home. He calls this little room his “man cave.” *smile* Now our little home is complete! Your post today was the nicest, most heartfelt one of all. A Christmas gift that I will treasure forever! ♡♡ Susan, wishing you and Joe and all those you hold dear the most wonderful Christmas ever!! You are a special part of each day and I cherish the time spent together on “our” blog. Warm hugs to all the Girlfriends! Merry Christmas everyone!!
Love,
Dawn
♡♡
What a wonderful story, Dawn!! Brought tears to my eyes, as did Susan’s post!! God bless you, and the dear lady that saved her little home for you until you were ready. xo
Thank you, Linda! Taking care of my little home over the years has truly been a labor of LOVE. It wasn’t always easy… but it was so worth it! Recently retired, I feel so fortunate to enjoy more time here at home. I count my blessings every day. ♡♡ Dreams really can come true!
Warm hugs!
Thank you for all of your recent blogs – you give much comfort to us all
by reminding us what is really important in life. Happy Christmas to all
of your family near and far!
Beautiful blog today, but they always are!
Yes! Home. Not a house. A home. That’s always been my dream, too. I’ve always counted it as one of my best blessings to have had a house of my own for so many years. I just moved last year from a house I thought I would never leave to live in a new house, in a new town. It’s the house that my husband grew up in. Oh, how I wish those walls could talk! So here we are, ready and waiting for Christmas making new memories to layer on the old ones. I thought I would miss my old house terribly, but I realized that home is where your family is. Simple as that. So Happy Christmas, Susan and Joe. God bless! XXO
…dear Susan..thank you for this post .. getting ready to bake (again !! )..it’s my dear Mom’s birthday today so it’s always been an extra special day !!…she’s 85. (.oh, dear !!..hope she doesn’t mind that I just told the world her age !!.)…my parents are wonderful…they were and always will be the best !!!..right now we are under a winter storm warning !!…our first snow !!…I hope you will get some too !!..oh, dear..I’m randomly rambling again with all the excitement !!…even the birds out back seem to be excited !! LOL… happy Christmas Eve !!
Aww, this was a sweet post! Home really is where the heart is, and the layers of a house’s history will shine through if heart has been put into it. Old or new. Thanks for sharing pieces of your home through the blog-especially knowing that you and Joe are very busy people-I think it is quite generous that you carve time out of your day to put genuine thoughts and beautiful pictures up on the blog. And I know I wrote this before, but I just love that bottlebrush dog! Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Girl Kitty, and Jack!
Thank you, dear Susan, on behalf of all of us for sharing your heart—and kitties and Joe and all your other loves. You have enriched many lives. Merry, Merry, Happy, Happy Christmas to you and all you touch!
Susan..Jean has just said so gracefully exactly what I wanted to say to you!
So many beautiful houses and wonderful reflections of love – thank you, Susan, for sharing the “goodness” parts with all of us. May your Christmas be all you want it to be – for that is the secret – especially when you are surrounded with love by family and friends. judy c
The other day I was telling someone about your blog and I called you my friend. It just fell out of my mouth. And when I stopped to think about it, it seemed right and rediculous at the same time. You don’t know me, but I feel like I know you! I enjoy your blog so much! Thank you for a most wonderful gift!
🙂 love that!
I caught myself doing the same thing a month ago Laura! LOL Today I thought, when I finally get to MV and I walk past your house Susan, I will wave like I know you.
Dear Susan,
I would love to have this book. I am new to your blog (blogging in general) and have read every posting here. I too love old homes with a heart beat of their own. Feel like we are kindred spirits! Have a Merry Christmas and I look forward to your posts in 2013! love, shirley
What a wonderful Christmas surprise finding your post this morning, Sue. The husband and I had to make a quick trip to the pet equivalent of the Emergency Room for our sick little dog … she had been ill all night so we were up with her trying to make her feel better. Life is back to normal again … making the Christmas morning favorite sausage and potato casserole and watching “The Bishops Wife” on tv.
Wanted to tell you that I found some older copies of “This England” quarterly and am hooked on it! Like taking “our” England trip all over again! lol
Want to wish you and Joe, kitties and Girlfriends a very Merry Christmas.
XO
Jackie
Susan you are a woman after my own heart. I love pictures of houses. I could look at them all day long. I love to ride thru neighborhoods at night and look at houses with the lights on inside, all tucked up for the night. I can just imagine the people who live inside. The way the windows light up is special. I am on a journey to find the perfect farmhouse for my family. I get lots of ideas from the pictures you post of your house. Have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!! Oh yeah love the pictures of Jack!!
HOME…the best four-letter-word I know! 🙂 Christmas blessings to you!
Merry Christmas Susan!
I’m as smitten with your first home on MV as I am with your current one – what a gem!!!
Darlene from Indiana (Dart) grew up in a dandy farm house in good ole’ Ripon, CA (our sweet hometown) and I got to spend the night there; her bedroom had a HUGE veranda off of it – swish!
The subject of today’s blog couldn’t be more timely as I try to make the decision as to whether to buy the homeplace in Ripon now that Mom and Dad are gone and live back in the hometown OR do I stay put in the home where I’ve lived x19 years? I’m glad to have these options. Were I only as copesthetic as my oldest/dearest friend, Dart, who is happy no matter where she parks herself, this would be an easier decision.
Your blog has been such a wonderful gift to me these past seven months since I’ve learned of it. Thank you for your generosity of time and spirit!! You are a wonder Susan Branch.
Happier knowing you are in this world,
Carrie
We’re neighbors! I live in Modesto, but next month we are moving to Riverbank. Glad to know one of Susan’s girlfriends lives so close! Have a Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas Mona!
We are indeed neighbors!!! Riverbank, I think that’s where the nursery is where I pick up my sweet peas each fall. I have taken many many tips thru Riverbank and Oakdale on the way to Sonora, CA. I hope 2013 in Riverbank brings you an abundance of all good things, Mona! Neighbors not only in Central Valley but also in this wonderful village of Branchites? Branchies? Branchians???
That’s a hard one!
This Christmas is a little sad, as I lost the love of my life just a week ago today. We were married 37 years. But here on Christmas Eve, my son is in the kitchen cooking Christmas dinner for his sister and me (and himself) and it seems a little more like home. It smells divine! I remember my sister having your first book, and after looking at it, made sure that I got my own copy as soon as I got home. I would LOVE to have another to pass to my daughter and keep this love thing going. Thank you Susan for all the memorable hours spent in those books, and all the inspiration. Can’t wait til the new one is ready!
So very sorry Verla … I can’t imagine how that would feel, but the first word that comes to mind is bereft. I’m so happy your children are there with you, wishing you the merriest possible Christmas and lots of wonderful memories. xoxo
dear verla, i am so sorry for your loss, i cannot even imagine the pain right now. i am sending you lots of hugs and prayers and good wishes for this Christmas and wishing for you a very wonderful Christmas full of happy times and warm memories. hugs to you….. 🙂
Verla….sending you comfort and love and hugs for Christmas this year …and to your children! 🙂
No words….just to let you know thoughts and prayers are with you, and your family.
Verla, we are keeping you in our hearts and prayers. May the love of family and friends bring you comfort and strength throughout this holiday season.
Heartfelt sympathy,
♡Dawn
I love this post. Some live in just a house, but most of us create a home. I love mine and my grandkids make my day when they say, “Grandma, I love to come to your house because it feels all warm and cozy.
I have written before that I have a quote on my kitchen wall,”Home is where the Navy sends you”. We have lived all over and in several countries, but when someone asks me where is home for you,or when I think of home I always think of the home I grew up in. It’s where all the memories start and all the wonderful traditions began!. Just today I was remembering Christmas Eve when my favorite Aunt and Uncle would stop by to visit and I can’t remember a time as a child they weren’t there. What a wonderful world we live in and what wonderful memories keep us going!
Dear Susan – Merry Christmas to you and Joe ! How perfectly you describe just how wonderful houses and HOME can be ! I have had your book for years and love the recipes and ideas, if I win I will give it to my newly married niece. Love the pictures of your first house on this side of the country….and you are right – houses are SO special. I love houses, too – it’s funny…I took photos of houses when I was a young girl and teen, and looking back at them now I can see that I somehow managed to live in houses that look very much like those I dreames about as a girl. We are enjoying Christmas in our downsized cottage house, and we love it. Fire is going, tree is lit, I am making up my cookie trays for the neighbors and getting ready for our little neighbor ( we call him our next door grandson!) to come for his Christmas visit. He is four and so cute…and bringing a little brother this year. So much fun to have little ones in the house at the holiday. Then we will enjoy our traditional Slovak and Ukrainian “Velijah” or Holy Supper….with foods that our ancestors have been enjoying on this day for years. Of course, there is a place set at the table for the Baby Jesus…so there is room in our “inn”! Just wanted to say I share your feeling about the love that gets stored in a house….I was lucky enough to go with the 7th grade students in our school to see A Dicken’s Christmas ( because they read A Christmas Carol and spent time in the library with me researching Victorian customs…) and it was held in a big old Victorian house or even mansion…an estate, out in the country. It was beautiful…so many trees, such nooks and crannies, and of course the kids asked if it was haunted. The actors said yes, but they never felt scared, just got good feelings from the place. Back at school as we talked about the day the kids wanted to know what that meant…to them haunted means BOO ! We talked about how over the years so many people had loved that house, had holidays and birthdays and good dinners and fun there….and that the good energy of those times lives on….it never goes away. I think everyone who reads your books, blog, and is inspired by you is tonight imparting that same happy house feeling into the walls that surround them…with love, family, friends, traditions, good food…..and our story will go on. Thank you, Susan – for your blog, books and good cheer. Merry Christmas !!!
Ho, HO, hO! Susan!!!!
Sending oodles of good cheer and tidings to you this delightful Christmas Eve!!!
Love the post, love houses too. So much beauty to behold…When I did counted cross-stitch for many years, my work/computer weary eyes are too tired at night – I always loved stitching homes and since many were samplers, all kinds of letters and alphabets. So fun!!
Wishing you, Joe and the precious kitties all the happiness your hearts can hold this blessed Christmas and always. May ALL your days be merry & bright!!!
Soft, fleecy hugs and candy cane love.
XooX,
Jeanette
What a beautiful post! I received Christmas from the Heart of the Home as a gift the year my husband and I purchased our first house, and it has been a part of my Christmas every year. This year my oldest went off to college just a few hours from home. When he came back for winter break, the first thing he did (after hugs and kisses for everyone) was to go through each room of the house. We asked him if he was looking for something. He said “No, just wanted to make sure that everything looked the same as I remembered. I love being home.” My heart just melted. When I came home from work the other day, he had the house tidied up, flowers on the table, Sinatra on the cd player, and the tea kettle on. It just made me realize so clearly how important it is to make our houses homes. The little things do matter; they are always worth the effort!
Merry Christmas to you and Joe, and the kitties! Thanks for sharing your magic and your home with us.
Susan, your post today made me teary. You exemplify Ralph Waldo Emerson’s admonition that we should “Never lose the opportunity to see anything that is beautiful.” The gratitude you feel for the life you have is evident. So many of us yearn for a house as “homey” as yours. I’d love to win the book. Have a lovely Christmas.
xoxo Merry Christmas Sandra!
Merry Christmas, Susan, Joe, Girl and Jack! Such a blessed and happy post! One I could really relate to, because of my life long fascination for houses, and homes. I have even planned vacations around tours given to visit old houses in the south. But my favorite quest in this lifetime, is to make a house into a home. Wherever that might be. And the smaller, the better. Small places have alot more charm and challenges. Love them. Thanks, Susan, for all you have shared with us this year, and being so very generous. I will never forget “our” trip to England, a place I’ve always wanted to visit. Just wonderful! Cottages everywhere! I would like to hear more of your life in your first little house, Holly Oak, how long were you there before you met Joe, and what did you do while in your little house. And of course, pictures of how you had it decorated. Have you written about that in any of your books? I own 4 of your books, and have my 2013 calendar, but do not have a copy of Heart of the Home. I would love to have a copy. Looking forward with great anticipation to your new book being finished. Your previews have just been so enticing and I can’t wait. As far as homes are concerned, you can post about these all day long
Hi Susan
I am now ensconced in Cambridgeshire ready for Christmas with my daughter Fleur and her husband Nick who both send their Christmas Greetings. I loved your Blog about home as I have always loved the homes that I have lived in over the years. The ironic thing is that my room here has been nicknamed the New England Suite which houses some of their purchases whilst holidaying in America. Eventually I am going to make them a New England style wall hanging in blocks that have New England scenes appliquéd. I wish you could see the room, you would be interested. Well the holiday season is upon us all and so warmest wishes to you and yours and all the girlfriends.
You with your New England room, me with my Peter Rabbit room, and this is the stuff of dreams! xoxo Hello to Fleur and Nick and Merry Christmas to you all!
Oh Susan, we are kindred spirits for sure…..Got butterflies like crazy looking at those Home Sweet Homes…… thank you so much for sharing
Sending you a Santa bag size of hugs and kisses and wishing all my friends here, peace and joy……
What a poignant post…making us all think of what really is important to each of us. We have so much to be thankful for this year and no reason to feel like our lives are missing anything at all. Thanks for always thinking of us and sharing your life with us. God bless you and your sweet husband and Merry Christmas! Warm Greetings from Florida, Diane
Merry Christmas Eve! I love your themed posts and rooms that you show us! Homes are special to us because they provide us shelter from the storm, both literally, and the “storms of life.” And they represent who we are, reflecting our personality and lives. Its an act of love, isn’t it, to care for your home and decorate it thoughtfully?
Of course I have your first book, but would love a signed copy from you! Thanks for being so thoughtful of us with your many giveaways!
Blessings to you and yours this Christmas season!
~MERRY CHRISTMAS GIRLFRIENDS~
~HOME IS WHERE YOUR HEART IS!!~
Lynn
thank you, Lynn. Merry Christmas to you!!
Linda
Happy, healthy NEW YEAR to you Lynn! You know where my heart is!
Oh my, kindred spirits indeed! As I sit here at my desk ( actually it is my grandmother’s old kerosene stove remade to be my desk), there is a small painting of the log home where my mom was born. It was done by a man needing a meal during the depression…grandmother obliged and received the painting in return. Over that is an artists rendering of Thoreau’s little home at Walden, in the dining room is a little print of a farm house with sheep grazing…Mom told me that print hung in every house they had when she was growing up. I, too, love homes and the stories living in them.
May you and all the hearts here that love you have a beautiful Christmas and may those who are hurting feel my hugs and prayers coming their way to comfort them. God Bless Us Everyone!
Ahhhh Beautiuful Sarah! Merry Christmas to you and yours!!!!!
Merry Christmas Susan!
I was so very moved by this blog . . . rarely have I read something that expressed MY feelings so well about house/home. This was truly a special blog and it reminded me of how, as a girl, I would walk home on cold winter eves, my spirits warmed by the warm lights from the houses I would pass. I would imagine the warmth, love and the smells of ready suppers, as families gathered around the dining table. All these magical thoughts inspired me until the day that I could create that same, safe, loving and nurturing home for myself, my husband and my children.
Beautiful Marcia!
Merry Christmas Marcia….I am so glad that you have that for yourself and family of your own today! 🙂
merry christmas to you and all of yours. thanks ever so much so sharing your memories with us. also to Verla, christmas peace to you. god bless us one and all.
Our house is a very, very fine house
With two cats in the yard
Life used to be so hard
Now everything is easy
‘Cause of you
And our la,la,la, la,la, la, la, la, la, la, la…..
Merry Christmas Susan, Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack. May your House be Blessed with an Overflow of Warmth and Love throughout the Holidays!
…All is Calm, All is Bright…
A.M.
Amelia – I love your reminder of this wonderful Seals and Crofts song. Perfect!
Susan, I love houses too! They decorate every room in my little home. I grew up in a teeny tiny home (three rooms) but, I never felt like it was so small. I guess the four people that lived there expanded it with love. Love your wood room, it’s so cosy with the kitties. My cat, Mr.Dingle, is trying to type you a note as I am writing this! lol Here’s wishing you the Merriest of Christmas and a Very Happy New Year!
Your first house reminds me of my first house on Long Island. The fireplace in the living room got me. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
Please dear Susan, can you show us more photos of the inside of your dear little first house, Holly Oak ?
I will someday.
Reading your long-ago aspirations reminds me how alike people can be, deep down. So many of us long for just those things, and treasure them, and try to share the happiness they bring. Thank you for sharing your happiness with us, at Christmastime and all through the year.
Susan,
I have had this lovely book for so long so I hope Vanna picks someone who is new to you and your incredible talent for life! I also have 4 of your other books and just ordered my 2013 mini calendar for my fridge. I work in a large hospital and I have to check your blog everyday before I go to work…it gives me something to reflect on and helps me to feel grateful for everything God has blessed me with. I also get great ideas for my own home. I made your MERRY CHRISTMAS banner and strung it above my fireplace…it looks darling! Thank you for sharing your home, your talent and your love for your surroundings whatever they may be. May we all be grateful for what we have.
And isn’t that just it!
Home for Christmas. Three little words that speak volumes. I stitched a sampler many years ago for my mom and one for my mom-in-law that said, “Houses are made of brick and stone, homes are made of love alone.” Yes, it takes love to make a house a home. So, Susan, Joe, Girl and Jack, from the heart of my home to the heart of yours, a very happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous 2013.
Thank you for that post, Susan. I love warm and cosy houses too. My interest was especially piqued by the newest little house. I just finished working at the Chritsmas Village in Philadelphia. I worked for Kathe Wohlfahrt and we sold those little singers and houses. They are the Seiffen singers associated with Seiffen, Germany. Seiffen is now a craft town and you can visit workshops and see the crafters doing their woodworking. You would love the town. They even have little figures carved on top of their street signs.
Have a wonderful Christmas in your cosy house!
In two hours time, me, my husband and son will join my aunt & uncle in their Little House. That little house will host the five of us along with my aunt and uncle’s 4 children and their spouses, 9 grandchildren and their spouses/fiance’s and 12 great granchildren with two more on the way in 2013. Grand total 43 family members celebrating Christmas in a little house. What wonderful memories it makes. Let the Christmas chaos begin!
Oh my goodness, sounds just like home! Merry Christmas Angela!
You are a living example that dreams can come true. Lots of love to you and Joe and may you and yours have a wonderful holiday season and a blessed New Year. Of course, I would love the book.
I’ve been busy baking and preparing for Christmas dinner so I won’t have so much to do tomorrow. My small home will host 15 for dinner tomorrow and we will have a wonderful time…even though we will be a bit crowded around the table! I’m taking a break and watching “The Bishop’s Wife”…I love the ice skating scene so much! Wishing you a Merry Christmas!
Such a nice message especially at this time of year. I always used to say that I liked architecture and that is why I liked visiting historical homes. But I think the real truth is, I’ve always wanted to see other people’s HOMES. They say that you can learn about famous people from reading a biography or autobiography – but I think when you actually see their home, you begin to know who they truly were in life.
I agree, and that they were just human, and had all the hopes and dreams the rest of us have.
What a great post!! I love what you said about the layers of a home growing through those who inhabit it. We live in the home my husband grew up in. It was built by his parents shortly after the depression. Built with logs they cut one by one and built room by room as they could afford it. After many additions to the house, more layers have added to the character. The logs are covered by siding now, but in the basement we can still see them where they were laid nearly 80 years ago!! I also have the sampler hanging on the wall that was stitched by my mother in laws’ sister and given to them the day they moved in. It says: “A house is a roof and a wall Furniture food and view But friends make a home of it all Welcome our friends to you.”
As always,Susan, a lovely post. As I mentioned before, I have my own sweet little home, just five small rooms for the three of us, and currently our kitty and pup. The real fun thing about my little “Lobelia Cottage” is that directly through an interior door is my sister and her husband! Yup….a duplex we all purchased together 26 years ago right after we married….and you’ll never believe this, but my sister married my husbands brother and we all live happily in our homes! It makes for the Happiest of Thanksgivings and the Merriest of Christmases and lots and lots of other great, happy memories….always someone to talk with and when someone is having a bad day, someone to lend an ear. Yes….I do love my home and my family.
Merry Christmas and a happy healthy New Year to you and yours!
Kim
How cute you are!
Merry Christmas! I love that book and use it often. I also put out Christmas Joy every year. I need a new Christmas Memories book…..where to find one?? Have a cozy holiday in your lovely home 🙂
They are out of print Janice, so sorry!
Dearest Susan,
Thank you so much for this Christmas joy. This last week has been hard as my husband was in the hospital with some heart issues and we were so worried. But everything came together and he got to come home and now he feels so much better. I needed something to lift my spirits and my joy back into Christmas. So THANK YOU!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
Melissa
Love your happy ending Melissa, although I can see that would be scary! Hope your New Year is filled with good things!
I love that last quote. I’d give anything to be little one more time and to have my grandparents again.
I know exactly how you feel Susan! Have you seen the movie Peggy Sue Got Married, because if you haven’t, you would love it.
Delightful….. simply delightful. Your blogs are so uplifting! Thank you for sharing all your wonder pictures and moments.
All the best to you!
Merry Christmas to everyone in your home … including the kitties 🙂 and wishing all a Happy New Year.
Love this postings. You express in pictures and in words the importance of home; it made me smile and remember the houses I once called home. Our current home is very special as well, and hold many wonderful memories. Thank you Susan.
Hi Susan,
High Five! Nice post, I always wonder about houses too. Looking in the open curtains at night as we drive by, I figure if they left them opened they must want us to have a quick look. High five maybe.
Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Nancy Jo
Such sweet homes you have and have had, Susan! I know how you feel. I love my little yellow house on the Illinois prairie so much!!!! Merry Christmas!!!!!
God bless, Kathy in Illinois
Very timely posting for me. Our home and all our belongings were destroyed by a wildfire in June, and we’ve just now been able to make a new start and buy a home again. Now we are trying to make the new house into a home. It’s going to take a little while for it to become my haven, but I’m sure we’ll get there.
Oh how awful Tina. Very hard to start over. One way, if I may make a suggestion, is to shop in yard sales. Get the old stuff, that might be like what you had before. It’ll be cheaper, for one thing, and will feel more real to you. xoxo
Great idea. The new stuff doesn’t have memories or history. I need loved items around me.
My sweet little home will be a little empty this year as my only son will be spending the holidays with his fiance’s family. So I was feeling a little blue but thank you for reminding me what a blessing my home is and how full of wonderful memories and just waiting for new ones made with new daughter-in-LOVE and grandbabies. Life is beautiful and I am blessed. Merry Christmas SusuanJoeGirlKittyJack!
It’ll just make next year even better!
I am new to your blog (my daughter Pam Bradley introduced me.). So happy she did, I’m enjoying them very much.
Welcome Bev, Hello to Pam!
I am so blessed to have a cozy, happy, safe home and a wonderful hubby to share it with me. Homes of all shapes and sizes are interesting to me, too. Perhaps it is the nurturing/nesting instict built into a woman’s heart? And where else can one be as creative as within one’s own home?
Wising you a Blessed Christmas!
That’s what I think, we do love our nests!
Thank you for sharing your pictures of houses. I love to look at houses and then wonder how they are decorated.
In the “wood room” do you know the name of the artist that painted the picture of the house next to the book “Martha’s Vineyard”. The artist looks familiar but not sure why.
Thank you and Have a Very Merry Christmas!
I looked for you Diana, but there is no name on that print. So sorry!
OOOOh, I don’t have that book and I WANT it. I loved this post, btw. I, too, love houses. Ours in Texas are different of course, than the yummy New England houses. Merry Christmas!!!!
“Heart of the Home” was my introduction to you. I’m so glad we met all those years ago. Now I have quite a collection of your books and your Christmas book is displayed on my dining room hutch right now. I loved today’s post. Have a Merry Christmas, Susan, Joe, Girl Kitty, Jack, and dear girlfriends!
I do have this book, but I have the perfect girlfriend in mind. 🙂
Your post made me feel all warm and fuzzy even though I am at work on this Christmas Eve, hoping to be able to go home early…..wanting to be home with my sweetheart, snuggling by the fire! Have a very Merry Christmas my friend!!!
Susan,
I’m in love with Martha’s Vineyard – I love your current home – but your first house speaks to me… It is a dream that had come true for you…and one day for me too…I love that little cottage in the woods… how special! Writing down and painting your dreams is a wonderful idea – I just may have to start doing that!
Merry Christmas from California!
Chris
Merry Christmas from Kansas City, Missouri
Thanks for all your wonderful blogs this past year!
Thank you, Susan fr the “warm & fuzzy” on this Christmas Eve. We all know there’s no place like home but you are wonderful for keeping us reminded. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a bright 2013!
Sue
from the currently snow-less Buffalo NY
I loved hearing more about how and when you came to the island. Would love to see pictures of the inside of your first cozy cottage. Merry Christmas to you!
I just loved looking at all your pictures of the fine old new england houses. It just reminds me what home, love and happiness are all about. Keep up the great work.
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas from Arroyo Grande, CA. to Susan, Joe, Girl Kittie, & Jack.
Thank you for all your inspiration for making a house a real home! I miss your little store in AG but happy that you have such an inspirational blog! I hope you will have a book signing here. Thank you for sharing your home with us! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I will definitely have a book signing there, don’t know where yet, but for sure it will happen!
I love your blog and website! I found it only about a week ago and have gone back to read most of the older blogs. I too, am a home body. I love to travel, but there is no place like home. Have a wonderful holiday! I would love to have your first book, as I am looking to buy most of them. Thanks
Welcome Jackie!
“Just for tonight.” That’s the important line I think. I’ve been missing Girl, so thanks for letting her show up in that cozy room full of HOUSES :-).
Merry Christmas Susan. I think I heard the radio predict SNOW. Eeeek.
s.
Eeeek!
Both of my parents died when I was young so I had to move around a great deal. Like you, all I wanted was a place to call HOME. When I married my husband knew how important that was to me. We built a home and have been here 28 years. This is HOME, and we are here to stay!
Thanks for sharing your love of houses and HOME. Merry Christmas! LC
Perfect!
Merry Christmas to you All,
Thank you a bunny bunch for all you share with all of us. The “HOMES” are extra special. All the little houses/homes everywhere—walls, stoves, shelves, and I am sure there are some other places yet to be discovered. Happy Cooking on this special day. I am off to the kitchen in my little house to bake apricot pies along with a mincemeat/cranberry from a recipe shared by a long time friend. Aren’t they the best kind?
Merry Christmas Again to all of you.
Bunny hugs, Shirley
Merry Christmas! My childhood dream was to live in an old house with an attic full of mysteries and adventures. All my favorite books started with someone venturing into the attic to begin a magical journey. I’m sure some of the pictures in my heart came from the Billy and Blaze books by CW Anderson. I knew if I’d lived in New England instead of the NW I’d have a pony! At Christmas I know exactly how I would decorate the windows, tree, porch and front hall. There would be friends dropping by for cider and a cookie. Kids would be sledding on the hill because of course it would be snowing. But I never got to have that house–except of course in my dreams. (and everyone knows those houses are easier to clean, lol)
Home is a synonym for love. I enjoyed your post. I would enjoy your book!
Love that book! I just tasted my first B & M brown bread! Couldn’t find it in Minnesota, so I had my son bring me home 4 cans from Amherst, MA. So good with butter and cinnamon and sugar.
Debbie–Byerly’s in Roseville has it, always has had it, and probably always will!!! That is where we have always bought it! 🙂
Thanks Pat! Matt will be happy!
What a warm feeling to read and reminish with you about what Christmas means to you and to hear all about the lovely homes…your first home until now and all the ones you’ve seen and found so mysterious. I’ve been right there all my life, too. Ever since I was young, I always dreamed of my perfect house, all mine to decorate and keep. Well……that didn’t happen until just a few years ago due to being married to my pastor husband of 42 years. Living in parsonages, we learned to accept these houses and tried desparately to turn them into “our home.” It worked in most parsonages but still hanging over our heads was the knowledge that this isn’t ours to keep. Alas….now we have a small, very country and very warm house that loves abides to all that enter. What makes our home so special is our grandchildren and children when they come for visits and we shower each other with hugs, kisses and loads of unconditional love. Why…even yesterday, my yearly cookie baking took place in our home. The smell of Christmas was all around us. Thank you again for your wonderful words, pictures and hominess. Blessings to you, Joe, Girl and Jack…..may you all have a beautiful Christmas and a super 2013 celebration.
Hugs, MB
Hello Susan!
Just wanted to say thanks for recommending the movie,The Bishop’s Wife. I just finished watching it. What a nice story and, Cary Grant was so handsome!!
Merry Christmas to you and Joe!
♥ from another Susan
Oh, I’m feeling very contented after reading this. You are so very gifted at putting feelings into words. We’ll soon be looking for a new little house (by the sea, please) and I want to make sure it has all the right things. Very exciting!
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas Susan…you said it all perfectly. “Home, sweet Home.” I have a love affair with homes as well. They hold so much promise. Thank you for another year of my FAVORITE blog! Your words and photographs make me feel happy, peaceful and give inspiration to what is possible. THANK YOU! Wish I was there on Martha’s Vineyard for some tea and a visit. Looking forward to 2013 with HOPE in my heart. BLESSINGS to YOU sweet Susan and yours…
Thanks for sharing your love of houses. I really enjoyed seeing the pictures and hearing about them. I’m feeling under the weather today and reading your blog always make me feel better. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Oh how I love your site! You do such a beautiful job sharing your life with us all.
I am going right now to order the house-heart cookie cutter. You have a very
beautiful life and very deserving. Merry Christmas to you and Joe!!! Hope I win the cookbook!!! ;o)
Funny, I just counted in my mind and could only come up with a grand total of 11 houses that I can remember since I was BORN that I have lived in to this day…..and that is a lot of years of living:)
Grand memories of all. The house we moved into when I was 10 had a square “hatch” in the hallway that you put a ladder up to and that was the crawl space/eves?. Once, when my Dad had a ladder up to it I climbed up and wrote all over the bare wood inside – some kind of, “beware do not enter” stuff:0, think I was 11 at the time. I also tried to loosen? one of the bricks on the fireplace convinced there was a buried treasure map there. Lucky they didn’t have any boys, ha, I was the youngest of three girls.
Getting ready to go to oldest daughters house for Christmas Eve. There will be about 35 family there:)))) Pretty chilly here but the sun was out today and still a little snow cover on the ground. Christmas blessings to you all! judi
Merry Christmas! I adore houses too, and dream of someday either fixing up our 120 year old “twin”, or trading up to a small cottage…Maybe I should write it down? 🙂
I already own all your books, but can think of so many friends I would love to share this one with, so please do toss my name in the hat! 🙂
Merry Christmas!
♥ Carolee
What a wonderful post. Yesterday when my son was here we were talking about our favorite homes, mine being in Florida where I lived for a few years in a georgous home that I truly loved but was far to big for me to take care of alone. You can always have a house big or small, new or old but it takes a special person to make it a home. Your home looks so cozy and I sometimes long for my antiques that I used to have so many years ago. Now I live a more contemporary type of life style but still have my many quilts (that I made or my Mom made) around me to keep me warm in the evenings and also to make the house a home. Merry Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties.