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
I have loved you for years and just discovered your blog to get a sweet touch of your magic and your way with words! You are blessed with such talent and a delightful charm! Merriest of Christmases to you!
Thank you so much Peggy — so nice to see you here!
I very much enjoyed your post Susan and I love the sentiments in your diary. We joined the National Trust years ago which is really just a good excuse to go and look round houses to see how people used to live and also to wander round their gardens.
I hope you and Joe have a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for 2013. x
Adore the National Trust! xoxo
So do I, from one Pam to another. I have been a member for years.
Always love receiving your blogs. I am lucky to live in a saltbox that my husband and I built 10 years ago. I love houses, too. I had so much fun making decisions for our house. Merry Christmas!
From my home to your home “Merry Christmas” and many good wishes for the coming new year! Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of your newest book. Your love for all things home related certainly shines through all you do.
Your generous spirit kindly overflows and keeps blessing others.
It’s Christmas eve, the candles are glowing and I’m home. Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas from snowy Michigan. We are with family here, which is wonderful, but I’m missing my home. I love traveling though, because of the chance to see old homes and towns. Thank you for the great photos of your home and kitties. I was able to escape alone today for some antique hunting. Amazing old treasures found–a faded red and white pieced baby quilt and a large red wire egg basket!
I too had your books while my daughter was growing up. She learned to cook with all your recipes-and how to clean up afterwards. Great memories–thank you.
Makes me feel good Holly. I always sort of wanted to teach girls to cook, so this is my very next best thing! Thank you!
Susan, what makes you such a great friend, is you always know just what to bring to the conversation. I enjoyed this post and music very much. You reminded me of some things I have not thought about a lot lately, that I want to think some on. Thanks for all the photos, and art you share with your thoughts. Thanks for thinking of us. Yours, Pam
What a sweet little book! I don’t have any of your books, although I have long admired your art, so I’d love to win it! 😉 I love houses too. I love to ride through the country or through little towns and imagine the families in the old houses. Loved this post – thank you and Merry Christmas!
I would so love this book!
Oh Susan, this post “speaks” to me so much. I, too, have always had a love of houses! For many, many years, I taught school and didn’t make enough money to own my own lil abode but I would pretend my apartments were houses and I treated them as such; putting wreaths on the doors, pots and pots of flowers on the balconies and at the front door, and always, always, always making sure I could have a fur baby (or several, LOL) live with me. Along the way, I started collecting pictures of doors. Does anything say WELCOME more than a door?! When I went to Europe and visited the guy who would become my husband, I took pictures of of the old, crafted, cracked, sometimes crooked doors in the villages we visited. sigh Today, I have been happily married for many years, settled cozily into the house my guy built for me, mamma to three fur children. We hope to live out our days here…in a little house in the woods. Many, many blessings to you Susan, this holiday and many thanks for always putting a smile on my face.
Home is your heart! Anyone would love one of your books, me too. I was reading a blog yesterday and I noticed your covered teacup with the precious brown bird! The cup was a present from blogger to herself from Susan Branch. You are a “universal language” and we love you.
OH! Thank you!
I feel the same way about Home as you do ♥
Wishing you a Blessed Christmas Susan, Joe & sweet kitties.
I sent a comment several hours ago,I must not have pushed the right button. Just wanted
To tell you how your posts always touches my heart. I loved playing house when I
Was a little girl &guess I still do.
I can’t remember the year when I discovered your first book but it pulled me
right in and filled my heart with the wonderful things inside. After that I was
always there to grab the next book and then began giving them to my husband’s
daughter when she got older. We both love our homes and filling them with the
things we love. Thank you for all your inspiration!!! Georgeann
I would LOVE to have your book!
Merry Christmas Eve from my cozy little home in Central Florida….I love your blog and look forward to your posts every day; it feels like visiting a friend.
My dear sweet Susan. May I say….you have such a way with words! And the most amazing thing is…..at least for the girlfriends that “play together” on your blog…you manage to speak for all of us! I just have a feeling that as each of us scrolled through this blog we all felt just a little cozier in our own homes. Thank you for sharing your gift with us.
I live very near to George Washington’s home. I love going to Mt Vernon and walking again and again through the rooms that he and Martha loved, lived and entertained in. I go almost once a month just to study it more. This Christmas I left my home to travel with My beloved to South Carolina to spend Christmas with one of my children and two of my Grands. It’s a new home for this family and they have transformed this house into an amazing, comfy home. I miss not being able to be with my other two children and all those other Grands (one family in TX and one in WA) but I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that their homes and Christmas celebrations are just as lovely and traditional as we had in our home when the kids were growing up.
Thank you again for your wonderful words! You are truly a special person! Merry Christmas!
I love George Washington! What a hero. My dad was just telling me about his house today … I’ve never been, but I’m putting it on my list!
Merry Christmas from our house to yours !
Thank you for putting into words what it means to be “home”.
It’s that feeling like no other where you can just be.
Merry Christmas!
So fun to come to your blog because of the big smiles it always brings to me. Wishing you a blessed Christmas from Arizona.
Susan . . .
I loved reading this today . . . and I loveeeeeeee houses too . . . I started quilting several years ago and when I see a pattern for a house quilt I just have to make it . . .
I recently started designing patterns and my first one is of a little town square all surrounded by houses !! . . . my quilt shop is selling them like crazy !!
anyway . . . thank you for this post . . . and may you receive wonderful Christmas Blessings . . . Merry Merry Christmas !!
Wishing you the warmest, most magical and joyous Christmas ever – You have filled each and every day of this year with such joy for me – i would be so over joyed to be the winner of this treasure, this book is one I do not have and I am so looking forward to owning your new book when it comes out – again I am wishing you and Joe a joyous Christmas and a great New Year – Carolyn
Hi Susan
What a wonderful post!!! I too love everything about houses. The best is when you are driving around at night, this time of year and you can see the Trees lit in peoples homes. I just love to see that. I really enjoy driving around anytime and looking at houses. Its one of my favorite things to do. I adore your first house on the Island, so cozy looking.
Have a blessed Christmas Susan
deezie
Wishing you and Joe and the kitties the most wonderful, happy, cozy, peaceful, homey Christmas.
Merry Christmas!!!!!!! I just love a homey home! Nothing else like it. Thank you for sharing your wooden room with us. It looks marvelous and cozy!
God Bless everyone! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Merry, Merry Christmas Susan, Joe and kitties! Thank you for the JOY you bring to every one of us and especially to me this year…
As always, your blog sparks creativity in me. Home is special. My mom, mom-n-law and myself all enjoy creating a place that makes you want to stay and feel at home and your blog helps us.
We are thinking of you this Christmas as your books have been given as gifts. Merry Christmas! May God bless you with more inspiration and memories to share with us, your readers.
Nancy
Merry Merry CHRISTmas to sweet Susan, Joe, girl Cat, and Jack!
Jeannie
Christmas Eve wishes for me are to be selected for your wonderful book. I love your first home Holly Oak, how sweet!
Thank you for the gift of your beautiful blog! Merry Christmas to you!!!
We are cooking up a storm and I’m just settling in for a cup of mint tea.
We’ve made gingerbread house, brocolli and cheese soup, roasted a chicken, made an apple pie, mac and cheese, pickled eggs, and cookies….oh so many cookies…
I’d love the book as we settle into our new little house that we are working on making a home.
Jena
Sitting in a WINTER WONDERLAND OF WYOMING.
Wahoo…moisture!
Love the blog on houses. I too love old cozy houses- there is just so much character to them. Do you have any photos of the inside of your first home? I would love to see them- such a cute little house. Your original cookbook is the only one I don’t own and would love it to complete my collection! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Susan, Joe and kitties 🙂
Thank you, Susan, for a most beautiful Christmas message with photos. I am home with my 3 children and my husband of 27 years (as of the 21st of this month). ..
It’s a Wonderful Life is on and we are going to watch it again–at home. We are so blessed. Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas Susan~ Thank you for sharing.
Susan, everytime I read your blog it’s like reading a short story! I love it!! Merry Christmas!
Susan. I love your wood room!, So cozy , makes you want to snuggle in.
Girl on the back of the couch brings to mind the English expression: “Safe as Houses”. :-).
s.
I love houses too. We have lived in this house for 37 years & don’t ever want to move.
Thank you for the opportunity to win your book – I’d love to have it.
Happy Christmas to you all.
Dear Susan,
Your lovely pictures are so atmospheric. I really appreciate how you emphasized your love for all kinds of houses, and for the things that go with them, such as children. Every home, no matter how simple, can be beautiful in its own way. We live in a little house in the country. We have done a good bit of renovation on it but it will need a lot more. There are still holes in the walls, and lots of unfinished edges. But it’s neat and clean, and on top of a high bookcase (out of reach of the tiny members of the family) there is a small Christmas tree with colored lights. There’s a lot of beauty in the dimly lit living room in the evening, and the views of the forest out of the window, and although it’s far from elegant, it’s a very happy and blessed home!
Your wood room looks very cozy! It gives me an inspiration to try to find a small corner in our house to dress up like that.
Merry Christmas to you!
It’s much more about the Heart than it is the Home! xoxo
I am still dreaming of having a place of my own but with being 55 already not sure that is one dream that will come true..but ALL is well. Wishing you and your husband a VERY Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Do not have Heart of a Home so it would be a great addition! High Five Paws back at ya!!
You’re young! Anything can happen!
Your blog made me think about my 1950’s childhood home at Christmas time. Dad concocted a metal pyramid-type frame to which he attached bubble lights. This adorned our front window every Christmas season…sort of on the same level as “the leg lamp” from THE CHRISTMAS STORY. If you peeked into the window, beyond the bubbling bulbs, you could see more of Dad’s handiwork…..the Christmas tree….complete with additional branches that he affixed to the tree by drilling holes into the trunk and then inserting the extra branches to fill in bare spots. Dad was ahead of his time, I think! Thank you Susan, for stirring up those treasured memories. Happy Holidays, everyone.
Susan . .thanks for sharing your love of houses. I too love them, especially at this time of year driving around at night looking in at everyone’s trees all lit up. It’s the best!
I look forward to your posts! Thank you for sharing “home” with all of us. Merry, Merry Christmas to you and everyone in your home!!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you Susan! I enjoyed your post about houses and enjoy them as well. Thanks for the chance to own a copy of your book!
It has been so good to “come home” to your blog this past month. A constant reminder that no matter how bad circumstances are there are still things of beauty.
Bless you for always pointing them out and causing me to refocus.
Merry Christmas
Merry Merry Christmas Susan! And many thanks for all the *Inspiration*!
Put me in for the drawing please.
Ooooh, I loved this post ~ made me feel all warm and cozy inside. I also have a love for houses and take tons of pictures of other people’s homes. They make me smile! I don’t own nor have I seen your first book so I’d love to see that arrive in my mailbox…..at the end of the drive of my sweet little home! 🙂
Merry Christmas to you, Susan!
(Your first home there is truly divine ~ must’ve hurt your heart to leave it!)
It didn’t because I’d met Joe, and he was a tall man, who did not appreciate the size of my house as much as I did! So together we made up our minds to find something more his size. But in my secret heart, I wish I’d held onto Holly Oak!
Well, it is Christmas Eve so this will be short! I am so touched by this post, as houses are very important to me. God bless you & Joe for blessing all of us.
Love,
Jane Alexander
All is peaceful, all is calm…..tomorrow will be a different story as children and grandchildren descend upon my farmhouse. But tonight, I’ll sit by the fire light and twinkling tree lights and just enjoy the quiet, looking forward to family gathered in the morning, especially the little ones bouncing off the walls, quite literally sometimes! I knew you’d posted on your blog earlier, but I wanted to wait until I had a cuppa tae, a slice of fruitcake, and all the stockings stuffed to sit down and enjoy every word you wrote! Thank you for sharing all the beautiful sights, sounds and smells of the season in your part of the world…..Merry Christmas from my home to yours!
Susan Oh, yes please how I would love to win ‘Heart of the Home’. My business was called ‘Heart’s Desire Studio’. Where there is ‘heart’ there is ‘home’. The two go together…a house doesn’t make a home…..it is the ‘heart’. Love, love all your watercolours. Would that I could express myself as you do through your art. I am so happy that you share it all with your girlfriends.
Merry Christmas & a Holy & Blessed New Year…2013,
Susan, I love your blog today. Especially as I have in my heart the strong desire to have a house, a REAL house with a yard for the dogs, etc. So I enjoyed reading about your house stories. But I also have to tell you what happened here tonight. It is really two separate stories. First of all, and I will try to be brief, when we were putting up the Christmas tree, our Betti (the smaller darker mini-schnauzer of our two) jumped up on the footstool by the wing chair and sat with big eyes watching the whole thing. We commented that it was like she didn’t know what to think, had maybe never seen a Christmas tree before? (we haven’t had her real long so at the time this happened, we didn’t know but NOW we know that she had not ever seen a tree because I talked with the schnauz. breeder we got her from to tell her this part of the story) She has left the tree alone since it was put up and Fannie, our other schnauzer, doesn’t act at all interested. We were at the pet store looking at doggie toys and Norm made the comment, “Both dogs have so many toys, I don’t think they need any more.” (This is true–two LARGE baskets of toys which end up all over the floor as they love to play with their toys) So we decided to skip toys this year. Last night while we were watching the 10:00 news, all of a sudden Betti got up and went over to the tree and started sniffing each of the packages under the tree! I looked at Norm and said very solemnly, “Do you know what she is doing? She is checking to see if any of those presents have her name on them!” Norm looked at me and said, “Now I feel bad we didn’t get her something” and we both kind of laughed. This morning on the front of the Family section there was a picture of, guess what? Two schnauzers sitting with the headline “Pet owners not spending as much on pets this Christmas due to the economy.” I showed it to Norm and said, “Look, Betti called the editor of the Minneapolis Star to tell them she isn’t getting anything for Christmas”. We had a good chuckle. So this afternoon, you guessed it, we went out to get them both a toy to put under the tree. (I should explain to those who don’t know me–we don’t have kids–these dogs are our “kids”.) So, now the second part of the story: We had just gotten home from the toy run to find two doggie toys, had turned on the news, and the doorbell rang. We weren’t expecting anyone, no porch lights were on, etc. Norm went to the front door and I could hear a lot of voices and Norm’s surprised-sounding voice. I said, “Who is there?” and this is what I heard: “It is your Susan Branch friend!!!!” I thought, “WHAT?” There was “Dawn of Minnesota”–with her husband, mother, and 4 kids! They had all driven up from the southern part of the Twin Cities to bring presents to us!!!! What a shock!! We had them come in and she introduced all. They said they couldn’t stop long, had other plans for the evening. Dawn said she was so glad we were home–and I was, too, as we are going out soon to Christmas Eve services at church. Dawn and I had planned that she is coming for lunch sometime in January and I am going to teach her how to knit. I feel kind of bad–I bought her your wall calendar and another surprise (won’t say here or it won’t be a surprise!) and I haven’t even wrapped them as I thought I had a lot of time–never expected to see them here. What a very nice Christmas Eve present this was–my “Susan Branch friend” and her family driving all the way up to our place and getting to meet them in person!!! Thanks, Susan, for the friendships your blog has given me. Deborah Heater of Indiana and I are also friends now–email and telephone and we’re planning a get-together hopefully sometime next year. But look what your blog has done for me!!! Merry Christmas!
How fun! What a fun Christmas surprise! You just never know!
It was a Christmas Eve full of new traditions…my Mom called it Happy Hearts! It was so fun to Wish Pat 🙂 Norm a Merry 🙂 Christmas!!! Torrie said, ” I just loved it when Pat clapped her hands together and said…’Never in my wildest dreams!'” Beforehand, we went to Northfield to decorate a tree full of homemade birdcake ornaments…and then, stopped at the ER to share a basket full of goodies – where they are always there for us and we appreciate them so! My youngest, Larissa, was getting hungry, and said, “Next year we’re gonna need more snacks…..Mom’s gonna want to drive and surprise Susan Branch!” This Christmas Eve…..we fed our hearts and souls! We still missed Dad/Grandpa….but it felt like he was with us the whole time….and in a new way….. with happy hearts!
Fun trip Dawn! What a good surprise!
Merry Christmas from my Home to Yours.
Michelle
Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Thanks so much for this lovely post. I bought your first book in a shop here in Morro Bay and treasure it. Love all your thoughts of home. Raised our sons in country homes with lots of room now in a beach house that looks out to the Pacific Ocean , especially from our roof top deck. Not a huge place but very snug with twinkly white lights and the fire in the fireplace. Merry Christmas to you on the east coast.
I have loved being a HOMEmaker now for 32 years…and the happiest stay at home Mom and now seven glorious months ago God Blessed my husband and I with the most precious Grandson who will call me Beppe (Grandma in Friesan Dutch). I have always so enjoyed putting myself into each house we have lived in. After my dearest Grandmother’s passing 14 years ago our home became filled with many of her most cherished treasures that I love so much. Each time I look at them or use her utensils in my warm and cozy kitchen I feel like she here with me. I especially love the architecture of old Victorian houses with lots of gingerbread decorations…and as view them I wish that they could tell me their stories about the dear families that have lived in them over the years. Yes Susan there truly is “No Place Like Home”!!! A most Happy Christmas to you and all who read your wonderful inspiring blog. ~Debbie
Dear Sue,
I read your blog every day. I especially like that you include “musica” to listen to while reading. Your blog never fails to lift my spirits. We are spending the holiday season packing up what we feel we can take with us when we move to Costa Mesa to live with our son, his wife, our eldest granddaughter, and her daughter (our great granddaughter) who will turn two years old the day after we arrive! Anyway, just wanted to thank you for your wonderful blog, and say that the trip to England was memorable.
Linda White
Merry Christmas Susan! I enjoy receiving your newsletters and blogs so much. Having lived in England for four years I can appreciate your love for the beautiful people and houses there. It is literally like stepping back in time! I would love to win your new book. I told my family all I want for Christmas is at the Susan Branch site. I hope they listened:-)
I too will love a movie based simply on the house or location. Something’s Gotta Give is at the top! Thank you for sharing so much. You can’t imagine how it brightens me to find a new blog entry. Merry Christmas, Dear Susan.
Thank you for the beautiful photos and writngs about “Home.” Home is such a very special place and I love the way you make it a cherished part of life, because it is the heart of a family’s life, a family of one or more! This writing today was a wonderful Christmas Eve gift. Thank you for all the time you spend spreading Good Cheer, a wonderful gift. Merry Christmas to Susan, Joe, Girl Kitty, and Jack! And, blessing to your home!
Happy Christmas and blessings in the New Year. From my home to your home.
I feel like I have just returned from a trip to my “Heart of the Home” after being transported by your words and pictures and drawings! Lovely sentiments and lovely feelings I have from it all. Thank you!
Christmas is coming a bit late to our empty nest. I can still hear the excited squeals and laughter while our four daughters got things ready for Santa. They decorated cookies and the house, and one of them always took Baby Jesus to bed with her in case He got lonely! But, she said, if He needed to nurse, she would bring him back to Mary! Can’t have a hungry Baby Jesus! They will all be here tomorrow, so tonight I am decorating our little tree now that my husband has managed to bring the decorations up from the basement. And I will fill hand knit stockings for everyone and be sure to put out the plate and cup with the cocoa dregs and the cookie crumbs since the grandchildren will be here, too. We are adding our contributions of memories and creativity to this house we have lived in for 45 years. All our girls were born when we lived in this house – two of them were born IN this house in what is now the guest room upstairs. Can’t get much more joy than that!
So, although it’s late since we cannot do things like we used to, we will be ready and waiting for those coming tomorrow with all their expectations and desires for a happy family gathering. Our HOME with all its accumulated love and laughter and joy, always ready to add a bit more. Can you hear me smiling?
Merry Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties and all who might visit you to share the love and joy and laughter that you and your HOME have accumulated – just that much more to share each year! Thanks for the smiles you have brought me over the years – they are priceless!
Dear Susan,
Another beautiful post on this Christmas Eve. Just before I checked my email I sat down to look through a new book I received today, “Girlfriends Forever” by Susan Branch! And all the while playing on the tv the 1940 movie “The Shop Around the Corner”. My husband and I and our little dog cozy in our home with the lights low and our Christmas tree aglow. Once again I would like to thank you for sharing with all of us.
From the heart of our home to the heart of yours, Merry Christmas, to you and Joe and the kitties!!!!!!
Loved reading about your houses, we are still in the process of fixing up our house, its been 10 years 12/30/12 but we still love it. Also they are going to put Peter Rabbit cartoons on the Nickelodeon cartoon channel. They have been airing a Christmas special with new episodes coming soon. They were very cute.
Oh, how I enjoy your writing/pictures/drawings! You make my day. Because of you I got those candles out of storage and now I light candles every day. Just for myself and my family! It sure brightens my day here in the Upper Penisula….Marquette, MI. I feel a kindred spirit with you in so many ways.
I can’t wait for your England book and look everywhere for any previous book.
Thank you for blogging and sharing. Merry Christmas and hope you have a wonderful 2013!
Oh, the weather outside is frightful – icy and cold. The moon is blue and shining through the clouds and next to it is one big, bright star. (My husband tells me it’s not a star, it’s actually Jupiter. I believe him.)
Inside our cozy little house all is Christmassy and warm.
Blessings to you on Christmas, from our house to yours.
Merry Christmas……you add so much to my life!
“There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort.”
Jane Austen
Another lover of homes here, especially old scenes of interiors. I have a collection of images of sitting rooms and kitchens that evoke such peace in my heart. This was a precious post and much appreciated on this Christmas Eve. Bright blessings, dear Susan!
I love old houses, too. Ours is over a hundred years old. Have a Merry Christmas!
Loved this blog. I have a fondness for houses also. One reason I enjoyed being a hospice homecare nurse was being able to see my patient’s houses/homes. I always thought of it as a privilege to be invited into a family’s home at this critical time in their lives.
When my husband and I married we seemed to move every 2 years. It was hard to leave a home we created after such a short time but then I’d think about “house hunting” and I couldn’t be sad because I’d get to tour many houses before we picked our next house. We have pictures of all of our homes in our den. It’s fun to look at those pictures and remember the times spent in each home. This current house is the smallest we’ve owned and we have lived in it for 8 years. A record for us, but age and the downturn in the housing market has decreed that we will probably never move again. But that’s okay because we have our memories. Have a very Merry Christmas and kiss the kitties for me!
Kathy
Hospice is my favorite organization on earth, where the guardian angels go to work. Thank you for everything you did there.
I, too, have been known to take photos of houses – not as many as you have though. I also take photos of gates.
Wishing you a joyful, peaceful Christmas!
Houses….homes. We moved to our home about six years ago and knew it was ours the minute we walked through the door. How did we know that? It just felt right. It was all right. Now it’s even better as we’ve adjusted to fit each other (us and the house). That’s how it is. Why did you move from California to Martha’s Vineyard? It seems as though it was a perfect destination for you. Merry Christmas you two….er…..four; from we five (3 humans and two petty pet meows). Thanks for the lovely times.
I was actually running away from home, but that’s another story! 🙂
I love your positive outlook on life and home. Merry Christmas, Susan!
Merry Christmas Susan! Thanks for the homes tour. Loved seeing your wood room with your adorable petty pets. I would love to have a signed copy of your first book.
Happy Christmas from my home to yours.
I do love old houses, even ones deserted that I think should be rescued. Your sweet little house, oh how I would love it. Merry Christmas to you.
Hi Susan….the only thing I wanted growing up for so long was to be married and to have a home–a house and yard. At 27 with neither, I learned of a single woman a year older who was buying a home and I thought, well, I can do that and maybe the husband will come along. I was saving up and two years later met my husband, married–got that one! and we lived in rented places for 20 years, all apartments. When we were finally in a position financially to buy a home, we started looking, couldn’t work that out, then he divorced me and moved back to the area of California he insisted we leave. sigh. Seventeen years later, I am grateful for my very homey apartment. I take walks and dream of what it would be like to live in the houses I pass. At this point, I’m just grateful to have what I have. And content.
I just finished my first piece of Jesus’ birthday cake I bake Him most every year. As I put it on the place with cherry vanilla ice cream, I thought, this looks like something you would see at Susan’s.
So grateful, for you too! xox sandy 🙂
Merry Christmas Susan and Joe and both sweet kitties curling up before the fire! I have the Christmas book out for visitors to enjoy and would love to have your first book just for me. well, I would share with my girlfriends just like you do but I’d cover up with a special quilt and read the pages over and over taking some ideas for my home as well. I do try and it make the heart of my family. Hugs!
Thank you for all you do. I have been following you for several months and so enjoyed looking at all your wonderful pictures and sweet stories. I have always been intrigued with other peoples homes. How do they decorate, arrange the furniture, etc. Every time i see pictures of your home I am always seeing something different, I hadn’t noticed before. I do not have any of your books, but I would love to have one to call my own. I promise the to give it a good home if I were to win it. (Or get it from the bookstore.) It would have lots of other books to sit with, as I love books and they are all over the house in special places.
I love the pictures you have posted today. I am especially in love with the English cottage. It seems so peaceful.
Anyway, I just wanted to say hello and tell you how much I love to get your newsletter in my inbox. I really would love to have your book.
I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas! Love, Pam
I love your wood room. And, I thought it very interesting to see the original pictures of your home from the “old days.” It was neat to see that the ledge above your front door used to be a covering. I love how you decorate it for the holidays! Merry Christmas!
I love your wood room. And, in the wood room, I loved being able to see those old photographs of your house from years ago. I noticed that the neat little ledge you have above the front door used to actually be a covering! Neat! Christmas greetings to you and all my fellow Susan Branch lovers from Boise, Idaho-ho-ho!!!! 🙂
LOL! Sorry! I didn’t mean to leave two messages above! I thought my first message didn’t go through. Again sorry. I’m so NOT savvy with computers………….
Do not worry, it’s very normal! 🙂
Good eye! And those posts there, were moved and are now what holds up the porch where Joe was making the wreath!
Oh yes, I know what you mean! Your love of houses is one of the things that draws me to you. The houses in your paintings say things to us, and they’re the things we want to hear. One glance at your houses and we know they’re filled with love. I wish I could paint better so I could do that!
Of course I can’t leave without saying that when I saw the gingerbread man banner hanging in your kitchen, my heart did a little flip. I know you know it makes my day to see it there, and you’re a dear to post a picture.
Merry Christmas to you, dear Sue, and to your dear Joe, Girl, and Jack! Love to you always … xoxo
You are the one Janie.
Hello Susan and Happy Christmas Eve!
What a Christmas Eve we are having in our area in PA! Just enough snow to make everything gorgeous!!!
Earlier today I signed on to check my e-mail and found your post. Love it! What a treat to see your “wood room”. So cozy and comfy — especially when the pics included your 2 special kitties! 🙂
A little later, just before dark I decided to go to a local store to exchange an item I had bought last week. It had just started to snow but I thought I could easily get back home before the roads get snow covered. I spent a bit more time in the store than I would have needed to, so when I came back outside it was dark & snowing very heavily. It was beautiful! I decided to take a longer way home and drive through some of the back roads of our neighborhood just so I could watch the snow fall in all of it’s beauty and magnificence, see the Christmas decorations and feel the excitement of the possibility of having a White Christmas! By this time the ground was white, the trees and shrubs were laden with snow, the Christmas lights were twinkling! As I drove around, going only about 5-10 miles per hour, so I could enjoy the sights, it was like a total Winter Wonderland!!!! I turned my lights on to high beam so I could get a good view of the snow blowing towards my car! And as I drove I had to think of your post that I had just read before leaving my house — then I would look at how the homes were decorated and wonder what everyone was doing inside on this most lovely & picturesque Christmas Eve. 🙂 It was truly the most peaceful & calming time I have had in the whole month of December. Just what I needed since my most favorite form of relaxation is to sit and watch snow fall. I came home feeling renewed and refreshed within myself while outside of my home, everything looks pure and white!
What a wonderfully perfect Christmas Eve!
Merry Christmas to you & Joe both, Susan, as well as to those darling kitties!
You say what I would like to say, only so much better than I would. I have always wanted the same thing you wanted; a home of my own, in every sense of the word. I am so thankful for my home. It isn’t perfect but I am thankful for everything GOD has given to me. I loved this post….I lost all sense of time and where I was…completely lost in what you wrote. Thanks and Merry Christmas. I have loved you for years, since that first card I bought of yours, I was ‘hooked’.
xoxo Thank you Dee!
Merry Christmas Susan!
This was a wonderful Christmas Eve post. It was nice sitting down to read something like this during this busy day to reflect upon, and give some thought to the dreams that reside within me. I am going to take the time to write some of them down in my journal where they can perculate and come into being. Thank You, you are always such an inspiration!
Merry Christmas from Minnesota! Just got back from Christmas Eve services at church and it’s 2 below. My kitties think they want to out outside but when the door opens they kind of shrink back. Love seeing the pictures of your house decorated for Christmas. I guess I have a thing about houses also. I have wooden ones I painted and have sitting in the windows. Bought a Christmas ornament this year of a house with trees in the yard, but I put it on a shelf. Think I will leave it out all year. I’m 60 years old and have been thinking for the past few months about getting a doll house. My excuse will be for great niece to play with when she visits! Would love to win your book.
A doll house! How fun Pat!
Count me in Vanna! I want a signed book 🙂 and even though I own a first edition of this precious cookbook, I want to give one to my daughter, Lacey. Thank you Sweet Sue and Merry Christmas!!! xoxo Jacqui
Merry Christmas, Susan! I love reading your blog. You have had such an influence on my life. When my sister moved to Albany for her 1st job, her boss gave her Vineyard Seasons for a present. It was the first time I saw your work. I couldn’t stop looking at the pictures in that book. A little while later, I purchased your Summer Book. Every summer, since I have made the lavender cookies. In fact, it is a tradition in our family to make them for 4th of July. When you visited Rachel in England, I was thought -oh, it’sthe pen pal who taught Susan how to make lavender cookies!
I also love so many topics that you bring up – like your love for Laura Ashley – it brought back so many memoires like my trip to a Laura Ashley store in England and the black velvet skirt I got for my sister or the hours I spend browsing in the store that was built in my area.
When my sister bought a vacation home in Cape Cod, I couldn’t believe it when we passed a farmer’s market and there was a VW that looked like it drove off the pages of your books.
Looking at your pictures and reading your musings, feels like finding a kindred spirit (in the words of Anne Shirley).
Also, here’s a message from my 3 sons – I am Andrew Dow I have 2 others brothers Patrick and Christopher. We all love your cat Jack he is so cute! you are good at taking pictures of him. Well I am I think the only one out the 3 boys who have seen Jack. I like your other cat too. I like how you go on lots of trips and put
pictures on your blog.
Merry Christmas to you and Joe!
Hi to Andrew, Patrick and Christopher!! I’m sure Rachel loves you remembering her Lavender cookies just as much as I do! So cute! Merry Christmas Michelle!
I have owned a few homes in my life but as circumstances changed for me, I don’t live in my “own” home and probably will never again have one to call my own. But , even though we live in a rented home I still try to do what I can to make ours a place of peace and love. I am so grateful for your writings and look forward to your posts. You lift me up like no one else does. When I am down and feeling bad about my health or situation, along comes when of your posts and makes me feel good inside. I know you know how much we out here in cyber land appreciate you but I just wanted to tell you one more time. Merry
Christmas to you, Joe and the kitties!
Merry Christmas, Susan and Joe!!
Merry Christmas, Susan,
This post spoke so deeply to me. I also love a movie or television show if it has a good house…the farms in Bringing Up Baby and Christmas in Connecticut; Orchard House in the newest version of Little Women;the lighthouse in Captain January… This evening was spent at my dear friend’s log cabin in the woods. There were fires inside and out, and lots of marvelous food, and great fellowship. There was just enough snow to make it magical (children sledding, dogs running after them), and then it snowed some more after dark! She fosters puppies for an animal rescue organization, so my husband and I got to hold and cuddle wee little 7 week old mutts who were just adorable. However, I don’t think Santa is bringing one for me. We keep telling ourselves that 3 is enough, especially when we add in our cat! One of my Christmas gifts to my friend was your Christmas book (which she loved!); I would so love to give her a copy of Heart of the Home if Vanna chooses my number. In any case, I wish you and Joe much peace in the new year, and a very, very Merry Christmas.
xoxo,
queenmum
Susan – your blog always makes me feel warm and cozy inside AND gives great inspiration. Each year I add one more item that goes on to become a time honored tradition. We now do Christmas cards around the doorways, cookies delivered to neighbors in bowls and baskets tied with beautiful red ribbons, Christmas coffee cake on Christmas morning, and this year we added The Bishops Wife to our vintage movies. Thank you – for just being you and for sharing so much of you with all of us. Merry, merry Christmas to you, Joe, Girl Kitty, and Jack! Love, Health, and Happiness to you!
Oh how I love to see into other people’s homes! I have such a curiosity of the way other people make their house their home. I loved seeing more of yours. I feel the same as you about a home. It is such a blessing to have one and I have loved the art of homemaking for all these years. May you enjoy a sweet Christmas with your loved ones.
Merry Christmas, Susan and Joe
I have loved your work for so many years! It always makes me smile and feel warm and cozy. I would love to have your book. How delightful!
Just the kind of cozy reading I needed on this Christmas Eve. Just getting ready to head into bed and will drift off with warm thoughts of “home” in my head. Merry Christmas, Susan!
Merry Christmas! Another great post from you! I, too, take pictures of houses. I love old houses the most because of all of their character. I hope to win your first book!
Then close your eyes & tap your heels together 3 times. And think to yourself, there’s no place like HOME
~Wizard of Oz
I always save your blog to read last on my daily emails…you know; save the
best for last. Today’s was so wonderful. I love seeing what you have
on the walls. I can’t imagine living in a house without pictures on the walls.
Wishing you and Joe and blessed Christmas and Happy New Year.
I’d love to win a copy of your book! Thanks for the giveaway.
Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!