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
We are having a white Christmas today! and I loved reading about home – thank you for sharing!
Nancy – where in Wyoming are you? I was born in Laramie (& returned to go to university). Spend time in Sheridan area then Powell. My sister is on a ranch in the Torrington area. Spent my first 27 years there! Then moved to California!
The merriest of Christmas days to you, Joe, kitties and all the girlfriends! I made scotch eggs from the Christmas book! Sweet potatoes are baking to be used to make your recipe for sweet potato casserole (with cream cheese)! We have a stack of Christmas movies to watch – beginning with Holiday Inn!! Walking later today! Watching for geyser eruptions on the Old Faithful live webcam nps.gov/features/yell/live/live4.htm (predictions can be viewed from the static webcam page nps.gov/yell/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm (Old Faithful VEC)! One of the greatest gift America gave itself (in my opinion) is Yellowstone so I love these sites! Very peaceful in the winter.
Off to open gifts then back to cooking! Love to all! 😉
Kerry – you know you are going to have a fabulous day when you go to the Old Faithful sight – just as it is going off!!!! Sends chills down my spine! I agree – this is certainly a wonderful sight – particularly in the winter with no one around. XXOO Pat from Paso Robles, CA.
Pat – that certainly is the start of a great day! Hope that you have a wonderful New Year! 😉
We have spent some time skiing in Yellowstone. For 7 years in February, we’ve taken a snowcoach from Flag Ranch to the Snow Lodge near Old Faithful. We usually stay 3 or 4 nights and ski during the day. You’re right, it’s a magical place in the winter. I’d love to be there for Christmas someday!
Elizabeth – how wonderful! I am still trying to persuade my husband that we need to visit in the winter! So far he’s not convinced! Maybe someday. . .
I loved your house blog Susan! No place like home – how true!!! But, I guess that’s not always the case! I remember living in my first home with a very abusive husband! It was not a place I liked to be!!! But then I got rid of him, and that home became a stable, loving place for me and my children for many years! Merry Christmas to you and Joe!
I’m so glad you did that Francine!
Hi susan I share your love of small houses and thought your first home on MV was just amazing, the kind of home I always wanted. I do live in an older house now that always seems to need a lot of suprise repairs, but my husband and I and our cats love it and call it home. Thank you for your wonderful blog it makes my day! Merry Christmas to you and joe and girl kitty and jack and your happy home!
Thank you Big for all the happy reading during the year. I am so happy we found one another. All the best to you and Joe in the New Year.
This post brought tears to my eyes. One can just see your heart poured out all over it. I especially love the note you wrote in your diary a long time ago. It sums up what I want in life. Merry Christmas, dear Susan!
A lovely home based (from the heart) post! I love houses too – but log cabins capture my heart first! Ever since an extended family trip in 1955 “out west” & a wonderful tiny log cabin deep in Yellowstone by the water….from that day on my dream was to live in a log house. It came true in 1996.
Wishing you & yours a beautiful Christmas & a fabulous, creative New Year
An other delightful blog, Susan. Merry Christmas to you, Joe and the kitties as you spend you day in the Heart of Your Home.
Did you have a white Christmas? Not here in my part of Mich.
Christmas Blessings.
Dear Susan, you have so many wonderful posts, but I think this one is and will remain my favorite (although with your lovely blog, each post is a rare gem). I also love houses, but of course my own little humble home is especially dear to me. (I think your first house was darling!) I have been in the process of trying to confirm my house is a Sears Kit Home, but so far don’t have definitive proof. And did you name your current home? I’ve lived in mine over 30 years, but still haven’t thought of just the right name for it. BTW, Girl Kitty reminds me of my black & white purrbaby, Sweetie. Needless to say, should Vanna choose my name, I’ll treasure your book! Hope you are enjoying a sweet Christmas Day, and thank you for being such a blessing to so many. With affection and gratitude, Bess
Merry Christmas Susan,
I love to look at beautiful homes too! I love to see how they are decorated inside and out, and the festivities at the holidays. Thank you so much for your lovely posts! I always find something beautiful each time I open one up! It’s like receiving a gift all year long!
Merry Christmas, Susan. Your post was so wonderful. I am about to start cooking Christmas Dinner.
By the time my family arrives there should be wonderful smells filling the air!
Thank you for sharing your wood room. It must be a very special place for you and Joe. May you enjoy the rest of this wonderful day and have a blessed and healthy New Year!
Dear Susan,
How timely is your post today for me and my “boys” (two teenagers, doggie, and husband). Our plans of spending Christmas as usual with extended family out of town got cut short by threatening weather. We hated to leave our Ma and Pa’s place early but couldn’t risk getting stuck (my son leaves with his high school band in a few days for Pasadena to march in the Rose Parade!). So we drove for hours in the middle of the night to stay ahead of the ice and snow and come to find out, narrowly missed a jack-knifed semi and a 21 car pile-up! So my heart goes out to those who, for whatever reason, aren’t safe and comfortable at home, wherever that might be. And even though our Christmas Day will be a little more quiet–and, oh dear, not sure of what kind of Christmas dinner I’ll be able to concoct at the last minute–we are happy to be safe and sound and snugly at HOME. Thank you for your blog!
Merry Christmas to you and yours,
Sandy
Merry Christmas Susan and thank you to warming my heart all year long.
I loved hearing about your first home! My husband is working today so I’m on my own for Christmas but I have your Christmas from the Heart of the Home next to me and I think it will be a fun companion for the next few hours 🙂
Susan…thank you for this post today…it’s been a bit of a confirmation. Earlier today I was leaving our family farm and trying to soak up every view…my heart is so content there. I-Love-That-Home!!! I was wondering why I feel that way and if others do too….then your lovely post. Thank you so much for your blog…I look forward to them…..and Merry Christmas to all.
Merry Christmas Susan!! Love your post about houses/homes. I love the way architecture is different in different parts of the country. Here in New Mexico we have stucco houses with thick walls and flat roofs that have a charm all their own. Many of them have big round beams across the ceilings called vegas and small kiva fireplaces. Very cozy and layered with history as you say. I like the idea of writing things down to help make them come true. Need to do that for the coming year. Thanks again for your wonderful inspiration!!
I too am a lover of houses, big houses small houses fancy house and plain house, love them all! Thank you again for sharing with us another reat blg post. And a very Merry Christmas to you and yours! Laura Benthien
Merry Christmas Sue from our home to yours. Loved reading this post. As you already know, I’m a transplant from Upstate NY to Florida. I so miss the New England area. Until I retire and am able to spend half the year up there and half down here ( we call those kinda people “snowbirds” ), I’m enjoying it by living it through your posts. So many of the homes you have shown on your blog look like those from my old neighborhood. Cozy & quaint! Thank you for sharing, I really do appreciate you taking the time to make us feel as if we are sitting across the kitchen table in your kitchen sharing a cup of tea! Merry Christmas! FOSB 4~Ever! ~ Doreen ~
Thank you for sharing your lovely thoughts and photos. Wishing you and yours a very, merry Christmas and a healthy, happy 2013! I know 2013 is going to be a great year – and I would love it to start with Vanna picking my name to win your book. Blessings to you all.
I love the way you write I feel that way about my home
hate to leave it the best is coming home to it after being away
love to have your book cannot get enough of your drawings and writings
happy new year from my home to yours
I thought I was the only one who took pictures of houses! Now I know I can’t be crazy…or maybe you are too. 😉 I take pictures of houses everywhere I go. You would love my Scotland house pics. My sister and brother in law live in St. Andrews….beautiful! Have a Merry Christmas Susan (and Joe) ~
Maureen
Merry Christmas Susan! Your books make me love my home even more and your words and drawings help me with making my home warm, cozy and filled with love!! Thanks for all you share xoxo
Merry Christmas to all in your warm, loving home!
I haven’t had time to read all of the other posts (my disclaimer if I repeat that others posted)…but while reading it as I often do with your writings, I felt as if I had written it, because your expressed every corner of my heart and soul…HOME is where the HEART is…and Home, houses make me joyous and sad, but sad isn’t the correct feeling…just that I feel something so deep about my home and hearth..I am glad that you are the writer…because obviously I can’t express myself. So I will just say…thank you ….thank you for being such a dear girlfriend. I do wish that we lived next door….again..Merry Christmas, a loved filled Christmas and Happy New Year…xoxo
Dear Susan,
What a beautiful post today. It seems that every one of your posts reminds me of special times in my past…today being no exception. When my husband and I first got married, we lived in an upstairs apartment in a very old house. Mrs. Forester was the 80-something widowed owner and just wanted company in her house – so she charged us only $15 per month…even that was hard for us to sometimes pay on time, as my husband had short hours in the winter. We didn’t have a private entrance and we’d have to knock on the front door if we came back home after dark. Mrs. Forester always locked the doors at dark. We were so happy there even during the times that Jimmie would have to get up in the middle of the night to check under Mrs. Forester’s beds and in the closets when she’d think she heard a strange noise and couldn’t go back to sleep until Jimmie reassured her that she was safe. I also remember setting Mrs. Forester’s hair in pin curls (remember bobbie pins?) every Saturday morning…even the morning I went into labor with our first child. Our very first Christmas was spent in that upstairs apartment and it was such a sweet home-for-Christmas place, as our newborn son was only a couple of weeks old.
Since then, we’ve built our very own little house, going to the woods to chop down the trees and then hewing the logs…our little house looks like something from around 1750, but has all the modern conveniences. It too feels like a nurturing home-for-Christmas house. Home truly is where the heart is, especially if you can have those you love sitting right along side you.
I love your room with pictures of house…what a great idea!
Love and Merry Christmas from Diane in North Carolina
Merry Christmas from my house to yours.
Through the years your wonderful words/books/recipes have brought warmth and peace to my heart. I too found a house to soothe a broken heart and mend my spirit. Within its walls I found peace and sanctuary. My kitchen has been filled with the sounds laughter and the smells of cooking which continues to keep us together.
Continued blessings to you and your loved ones.
Perhaps this new year will allow me to visit your magical island…….
Thank you so much for doing this contest!! I would love to have the book! And I love the pictures that you took of the cottages in England! 🙂
All of my babies just left for their own homes after a wonderful family Christmas. We had brunch then opened gifts with sons, daughter, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, and grandbabies. It was sad to see them leave but a blizzard is coming to Indiana and they have to get back to their little homes, near and far, to be safe and cozy. My daughter left for Ohio with your 2013 calendar and her own copy of Christmas Joy. She was married this year and I kept that book for her for a LOONGG time waiting. My daughter-in-law said I have that book, too! I buy in bulk 🙂 Merry Christmas to you and yours, Susan. And blessings for the new year.
Marry Christmas Susan! this was my final gift I “opened” on Christmas Day. Thank you for sharing your life and home with us. I hope your Christmas and New Year is wonderful.
Merry Christmas. I so enjoyed reading this Blog today. I have noticed how neat the homes are out of the windows on the train. As a passenger you get to see the backs of homes and neighborhoods with clothes hanging on clotheslines in the backyard for example. Thank you for reminding us how homey homes can be and encourage us to think of them that way.
Thank you for the pix and tour. I currently live in a small condo but yearn for a house of my own. I get vicarious enjoyment from looking at your home. 😀
All the best wishes to you and your family for a wonderful holiday.
Merry Christmas Day Susan,
Your posts make the world a better place for all of us who enjoy them. Thank you for sharing your gentle world.
Oh my we are birds of a feather. I collect little houses too, only on hand made samplers. I try to make up stories of people who lived in the imaginary little houses. Thank you so much for blog.
Merry Christmas Susan,Joe,Girl Kitty,and Jack.Thank you for this past year and the pure delight your blog brings to us. I hope the year ahead is full of all good things for you!!!! xoxo Ruthie
This post just made me tear up on Christmas Day. My home is full to the brim today with food and warmth and people I love. We are so blessed. Thank you for writing out the feelings of all our hearts. Merry Christmas, Susan!
So glad I found your blog recently. I love your art, and the pictures and thoughts you share. I don’t have your books but will be on the lookout. Thanks so much! Merry Christmas!
Yes, Susan, this made me cry when I was reading this, but I thank you so much! My husband and I just got home from having Christmas dinner at my Mother inlaw’s tiny little house filled with family, friends and more memories than you could fill a 14 room house with! Everything you wrote is so true…
Merry Christmas, Susan! I just wanted to say how much I enjoy reading your blog. I so agree with your post about your love of houses! I have always loved houses, and felt the same as you about them. I do counted cross stitch, and often are drawn to stitching houses….
I am a librarian, fellow book lover, and fan of Gladys Taber as well.
Thank you Miss Susan. Now I know why I connect with you so much. I too love, love , love homes of any and all kind!! When I go to bed at night, I thank God for having a warm place to lay my head at night. I love my room and my home. You are my inspiration and one of my motto’s is, “Write it down, Make it happen!” I am a writer in my heart and soul. I have so many stories to tell, I just don’t know how to get there from here. When I was a young girl in grammar school we had to read, “Diary of Anne Frank.” That book changed me forever. I also watched a few old movies this holiday season. “Little Women” and “Sound of Music” I finally get the watching the old movie thing that you do. What a great motivator. Well as we say goodbye to another year, I would like to thank you for keeping me moving forward. You bring hope into my life. Happy New Year Susan and Merry Christmas.
“May our homes know joy,each room hold laughter,every window open to great possibilities”-I don’t know who said it but is my wish for all our homes!
Merry Christmas and a happy new year!!!
Your blog warms my heart like no other… When I was a girl living in a small turquoise rambler house in a new subdivision (no trees) ALL I wanted when I was grown was to have a yard with lots of BIG old trees, a two story house with an attic (for storing treasures) and a open stairway with a banister that I could slide down.. I got it at age 34 and have been sliding on the banister since – 24 Christmas’ now.. Yes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year –
Just sat down for the first time in days. Feeling a bit melancholy in my oh so suddenly quiet house. Imagine my excitement to find a new blog from you. You are too generous with your time and I am so happy to be lucky enough to be able to enjoy your posts. I too love my home. I enjoy it in every season, time of day or night, full or empty. My happiest days are those when I don’t have to leave my front yard. It’s what I believe we girlfriends have in common. Love of home, family and all things cozy. Merry Christmas to you, Joe, and both kitties. Thank you for sharing your home so willingly.
Merry Christmas Judy!
Susan, I too have always loved houses. Older ones that are ‘seasoned’ with life.
My home is 52 years old…same as me. It was build in 1960…and so was I. 🙂
We’ve been here 24 years…and counting. We may always be here. And that’s okay with me.
Merry Christmas to you! Have a wonderful and Happy, happy, new year.
I don’t have your first book, most of the others, but I would love to have the ‘beginning’ book. 🙂
A girl can dream….can’t she? 🙂
Oh yes!
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and the happiest 2013 in a cozy cottage wherever you roam!
Blessings, Nancy
While I don’t make pictures of many, I share your love of houses and the mysteries they hold. I do think houses, especially the older ones, seem to have taken on the characters of their owners. I am especially fascinated by houses made of stone.
I don’t have your HEART OF THE HOME book and would be thrilled to have a copy of my own. Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas Susan and Joe. Also the fuzzy babies! When I saw your
house post I called my friend, Carol, and said, “There are 3 of us cut from
the same cloth!” After all of the comment there must be many more. I
love my home and I love people who value the art of it. Looking forward to
a creative New Year for all of us. Thanks a bunch.
A most Merry Christmas Susan! May the joy of the season hold you all year long. I would love to win your book signed by you! You are so kind.
Lynnie
Merry Christmas Susan and thanks for sharing your love of homes. You inspire me! As the old poet once said” it takes a lot of livin to make a house a home”
Susan I loved looking at all the homes in this post. When I moved here I wanted to find a house that had been established for a longtime, but none were for sale and I had a short time to look. So I bought a newer home I hope someday many years from now it will have lots of wonderful stories for future generations. I hope you and Joe had a wonderful Christmas. My family was all together so that was the best present ever. Happy New Year!!
Susan
I thought I was the only one who constantly took pictures of houses. Mistakenly, I assumed it was because I was drawn to the architecture – but with your heaven semt gift of words – I now realize it’s the heart of the home I’m admiring and loving. Thank you Susan for putting my heart’s desire into words. (Sounds corny I know – but it’s true!). Our little house in Los Osos, CA is called “Paradise Found”, and yes we have the name above the front door. Merry Christmas!!
Perfect. Love Los Osos!
THANKS FOR THE LOVELY POST! So beautiful and such a wonderful explanation of your books names! Thanks for writing, drawing painting & showing us how to love & live! God Bless you & Joe & Kitties! Merry Christmas!
You write delightful posts and books. I don’t have that book and would love to look at the pictures.
Oh Susan I just love this post!!! I, too, am a house lover. I have pictures of them hanging on my walls, as well!!! I have several lit houses decorating our home. I like to look at them and imagine the people inside doing homey things and lots of laughter going on. One of my favorite things to do is go riding and look at how everyone has decorated their homes and yards. Then I come home bursting with ideas for our own home. We raised our children here, in our house across the street from Lake Erie. And now they are grown and gone and they come home and bring our grandchildren back home. Thankfully they still live close by. When we have our grandsons in the back seat our older grandson, Isaac, will say, “Go this way, Grandpa”, and then he points the direction to turn. He can do that all the way from his house to ours!!! I love that he already knows the way to Grandma and Grandpa’s house. And he is only three!!! They all still love to come home and that makes me happier than all the gold in the world!!! Thank you, again, for this wonderful post that has stirred the most wonderful thoughts and memories in my mind. But then you are so good at that and that is one of the things I love about you!!! You are so real and I thank you for that!!!
Merry Christmas Susan! I did so enjoy your thoughts about houses and I also take pictures of many, many houses. They fascinate me, as well the creativity of the designers & builders. I don’t have your first book, but would love to!!
Merry Christmas, Susan. I’ve had a wonderful few days spending time with family…laughing, talking and eating. “Home” it’s my favorite place in the whole world. Have a wonderful day. ~Teri
Susan———–I so enjoyed this post——I am a Real Estate Agent and I think seeing my buyers at the closing table signing the papers to purchase their first house or second house or third……makes me so proud that I brought the two together. I send a Christmas card to all my past clients each year and it’s amazing how many I hear back from letting me know how much they love their homes. Makes me feel warm all over. Our homes are so important to us. Our homes tell so much about us. The memories we all make in our homes…..that is our life. I often wondered how you came to be in Martha’s Vineyard. Now I know and I am so proud of you to take that step alone and inspired to possibly do the same some day. Thank you for your posts. I look forward to them always. Chris
It’s wonderful helping people find the right home!
I, too, find myself looking at the houses’ interiors in movies rather than paying attention to the action. I notice if there are quilts on the beds, candles burning, food on the table. Those movies with cozy homes are my favorite. Have you watched “Howard’s End?” Now that is a house where I would love to live. Really enjoyed reading your post today. Happy New Year!
Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!
My sister and I have our childhood home as a screensaver. Powerful memories are created in our homes! We are blessed again by your sentiments . Peace to all who enter our homes.
Hi Susan!
I live in a small house and I agree, they are the coziest! I wish you a very Happy New Year and I look forward to reading your future blogs!
What a nice way to end christmas day, reading your blog about house and home. I loved the entry you made in your diary years ago, about long time love, and living in the house for a long time. That was the exact wish I had, and love that it’s coming true. We have celebrated our 57th Christmas as a married couple. We have a far flung family, so getting together for all of us, is usually not possible. We have had several visits with Skype, thankful for the high tech capabilities. Our daughters all loved the Susan Branch calendars I got for them, and one daughter said…”I tried to get you one, but they were all sold out” so she was thrilled that I had purchased one for myself. Here in Central Kentucky we didn’t have a white Christmas, but a very nice one.
57 years. What a blessing!!!
Home really is where you can find comfort and rest. Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas Susan!
My daughter and I are getting ready to cut out and bake “Heart of the Home” cookies. We are using two separate cutters. I would love to find one like yours to give to her and your book would be the perfect companion gift! 🙂
I was thinking of using this on my business card (I’m a homebuilder).
arthermitage.org/Vincent-van-Gogh/White-House-at-Night.html<White House at Night
Or should I find something more cottagey?
That’s not coming up for me, but probably what you should use is whatever kind of house you like to build the best. That way you will be building the things you love, and they’ll come out better.
arthermitage.org/Vincent-van-Gogh/White-House-at-Night.html” rel=”nofollow”>Try this link I love the colors.
Thank you! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas!
OH! Well that definitely works for me! 🙂
Merry Christmas, Susan Branch!!!!!! I love this post! I also have a soft spot for homes of all kinds. I really love old homes, and of course that’s what we live in. I enjoyed seeing your ‘wood room’ — the house pictures on the wall, the beautiful lamps, the pretty upholstry and the sweet kitties lounging one the back of the couch. It doesn’t get much better than this. I sure hope you and Joe have had a great holiday. Night!
Merry Christmas Susan,
Here is a poem I would like to share with you and the Girlfriends. I don’t know whom the author is.
My Christmas List of Blessings
My Christmas List is more, then just a way to keep track of
The special people-God-has brought into my life to love
It’s like a treasured scrapbook filled with pleasant memories.
Of all the times God’s answered prayer through friends and family.
Every names’s a touchstone that leads to a place and time,
Where God has used another’s heart to reach out and touch mine.
It may have happened years ago or even yesterday.
But every person on my list has changed my life someway.
Through simple conversations, a warm hug or a shared meal,
Every person on my list has helped me grow or heal. or laugh or love or learn or smile, the blessings never end.
As God alllows our paths to cross as family and friends.
So please know that this greeting is more than a Christmas wish.
It’s a “thank you” card to God for putting on my list.
Each and every one whose name
I’ve come to hold so dear…..
Those who’ve shown me Christmas joy each day of the year!
I thank you Susan for all the happiness, love, kindess warmth you give each and every day on this blog and in all the books you write. You truly are one of a kind!
I have also learned a lot about all the “girlfriends” whom share on here….the stories and the place you all are from…..have touched my heart greatly.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOODNIGHT!
HUGS&SMILES:) BARB…EW, CT
I love your illustrations and your words – you convey such peace and serenity. thank you for creating the many gifts that you share with all of us…
Love your blog so much, I love houses too. My girls and I have made glitter houses, and ginger bread houses, they decorate our house this time of year! And I want to make little birch bark houses soon! I am a homebody for sure. Thanks for sharing, your posts warm my heart.
I love houses too, especially old ones. Many times I’ve just wanted to march right up to someone’s door and ask if I could have a tour of their home! Of course I can’t do that, but lucky me, I get to see inside Susan Branch’s home all the time! Just found a copy of your Love Heart of the Home book (very cute pic of you and Joe) and if I was lucky enough to win the Heart of the Home book I would have the beginnings of a really great collection. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
How lovely to see your post this evening while relaxing after several busy Christmas celebrations. I always love my homes, too.
I think one of the reasons I love reading your “show and tell” is your love of all that is home-y. 🙂
I have that same little matchbox size Nativity! When my son was younger, he helped a woman set up her stand at the International Fair on campus and she offered him a little gift. He accepted the tiny Nativity to bring home to me. 🙂
Merry Christmas Susan to you and your little family! Thank you for having the right words, you touch my heart!
Thanks Susan for the blog!!! Love it……as I love houses too!! I love going for drives all around to look at different little homes!! I always wonder what the home looks like inside and how the owners have it decorated. Cozy little cottages are my favorite just like your first home in Martha’s Vineyard. Thank you for brightening my day as it has been a rough holiday for my family today. (All will be just fine soon I just know it! ) Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year my dear friend!!! Love to you and your sweet little family!!! GOD Bless!!! Love and hugs!!! XOXOXO Tricia B.
“And when we go we will leave these, with maybe a couple of our own.” How bittersweet, and how perfect. I love that.
In your words and things you love I see myself.Susan you put on paper what I feel and think. Love you for that.Merry Christmas. Gabriela
Truly, I hope ALL had a Blessed Christmas. I’m sitting here with my swollen ankle resting on the ottoman and reading this lovely blog after not being on for several days. We had a wonderful Christmas and I’m sad that my daughter has left headed back to her first apartment which I have to tell you is decorated so lovely with things she has acquired from us; family, sales (ALWAYS), Goodwill (man have things changed), she has such an eye for style and has made her small space her own. I miss her. Angela made her gifts this year because of her finances (new graduate) just starting out and I have to tell you I will always treasure what she made. She took ceramic tiles and cut out beautiful pics of flowers, birds, etc. then put a protective coating on them for trivets/coasters….sigh….she also made the 3rd Annual “Heater Calendar” with family/pets pictures throughout the past year, she designs the background then adds inspirational sayings it is just a cherished keepsake. We are so proud of her spirit and independence. We went to Christmas Eve Services and I always love the special music, and Angela always sits by me and hearing her lovely voice was my special gift. Susan, I’m sad that Christmas is almost over I wasn’t sure I would be able to make it through this year; but, I reached deep inside myself and tried to make it special for everyone. I have to say from all the oohhs/aahhs over the dinner today it does make a lady feel happy. I sent goodies home with everyone so there isn’t any temptations left which is a blessing. We tried to make everyone who stopped by our “cozy” space feel welcomed and it isn’t the square footage that matters, it is the Love and Comfort people feel when they enter and the warmth that lingers between the four walls….your space….that makes a House a Home.
ONe of the few I don’t have. Would just love to add it to my collection. I love cookbook and cannot wait to pass them down to our sweet baby girl when she gets bigger. Merry Christmas!
I loved your comment about adding layers to our homes with everything we do, like cooking family dinners and holiday celebrations. I never looked at it that way. My current house is only 10 years old, and each year that goes by I find myself getting more attached to it. If we ever have to move, I will be sad because there are memories here.
I love your newest house decoration and choir people…I have some similar from Germany. Don’t you just love those trees?
Thank you for the lovely post. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. (I made the Creme de Pumpkin and Butter Cookie recipes from your Christmas book.) I am officially full!
Merry, Merry Christmas from my cozy house to yours after a wonderful day! ♥♥♥
Looking forward to a year filled with life and love and home in 2013!
I know exactly what you mean about the memories created in your childhood home. I have absolutely precious memories of being a child and I am trying to make a home for my kids that they will cherish later as well. Thanks for being a bright spot for me each time I get your blog.
Love this post Susan …makes me feel all cozy inside. I thought I might see the little house I gave you …. that’s ok ….I know it’s there somewhere in your little house collection . I would love to win this book to add to my collection !
Hugs, Sue Ziff
( Trinkets & Treasures )
Merry Christmas Susan! Love your posts, they are always so inspiring!
Hi Susan, I always wondered about your first home on MV, and I’m so happy to see it. I’m guessing that cute window on the right side is in your kitchen over the sink! I’m imagining I can see a twinkling Christmas tree on the front left window too. That circular driveway is just perfect and gives such curb appeal. Love it all and read in another post from your dad that he made the deck for you. What a great Dad! Of course, I love your present house too.
When Joe and I took a train ride from Fl up to MD in a cold January, it was snowing in the early hours and I was looking out the window and seeing lights in some windows of houses and smoke coming out of the chimnies. I could envision children sitting having hot cereal or bacon and eggs before heading out to school. Of course, I had to share this with Joe and he was in awe as to the things I can imagine. Guess that would never occur to him. I loved the picture of the thatched cottage which reminded me of our trip to Ireland. It’s hard to believe it can prevent the rains from coming through since it is so different from our roofs, but I know it is very sturdy. Your “wood room” is so cozy and Kitty girl and Jack must love it as much as you and Joe.
I hope your Rib Roast was delicious……..love the smell of it cooking. We love that for Christmas too but are at our son’s in VA Beach so we had a ham this year. Hope you and Joe had the most wonderful Christmas. Thanks to you I have some additional decorating I’ll be doing for next year. Hugs, Gail & Joe Buss, Beverly Hills, Fl XX
Similar experience…loved the same old movies. I bought a little toy stove like yours and right now it’s bedecked with a small Christmas tea set and holiday greenery. So festive. Merry Christmas, Susan, and thank you for inspiration!
Isn’t that stove fun to play with! 🙂
I would love a signed copy! I actually do not have this book, although I have most of your work. I just put up my SB 2013 calendar…beautiful.
I’m pretty sure we were separated at birth (although, you got all the talent!) because I love houses as well and will watch a movie over and over again just to see the house. You named a couple of my favorites and there are so many more!
Heart of the Home was the first cookbook I bought for myself all those many years ago. My copy is well worn with things spilled on it (my daughter has used it quite a bit as well) and well loved. If I should win the book, I will donate the old one to my now married daughter and start new again :-).
Wishing you and yours a wonderful Christmas and New Year! Thank you for always making me feel warm and happy after reading your notes.
Well Christmas is almost over for another year and believe it or not, we had a WHITE CHRISTMAS in Texas! 2″ of snow fell today starting about 1pm and it continued until 5pm. Supposed to get down to 16 degrees tonight. Last week one day was 80 degrees! I’m not complaining! It almost never snows here, so a white Christmas is the perfect way to get ready for 2013 which is going to be our best year ever!
What a perfect posting to read on a cozy Christmas evening. How is it you always are able to express exactly how I feel about so many things?
Merry Christmas Night, Susan and Joe,
Thank you for spending time writing your blog on Christmas Eve. I loved it along with all the others who wrote to you and those who didn’t. As I started to read the comments I realized there is a group gathered here with so many commonalities and it makes me just smile. I love feeling this camaraderie across the globe. Good night to all and to all a goodnight. Sheryl
Merry Christmas Susan. I absolutely loved this post! I’ve always enjoyed looking at all shapes and sizes of homes, but cottages are my favorite. Thanks for always entertaining us girls, and for reminding us to cherish what’s important.
I just celebrated my first Christmas as a mother and my heart is overflowing with happiness. Your blog is new to me, and I’d love a copy of your book to keep make our home special.
I just love your lovely home and appreciate your sharing it with us. I am in an apartment right now and am looking forward to having a place of my own again someday. I would love to have a copy of your book
Hello Susan,
Thank you for sharing your love of houses. I live in this old house that was built in 1923, my mother used to say it was built the same year she was made. The house used to belong originally to my great aunt and uncle, then my mother and father and now to me. I love the history and the feeling of being home. I remembered it as a child, so warm, safe and inviting. Now I feel the same way every day when I come home from work, or when I stay home to bake, write letters or curl up on the sofa to read a book. Now you’ve inspired me to give it a name. I never thought of that before tonight… Wishing you and Joe a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Looking forward to purchasing your English Diary when it’s done. Thanks for keeping us updated on it’s progress. Stay cozy and warm. We love you!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! What a cozy post. Loved it. 🙂
Like you Susan, I love, love, love my home. It is my safe place in the world & my refuge from all the bad. My children come home all the time & it’s even more of a safe haven for them. All is good in the world when we’re together at home.
I love your blog from yesterday..could be an all time favorite.
Would love to have a copy of your book to keep on our coffee table.
Have a wonderful happy New Year and please keep writing!!!!
Very sincerely..Priscilla from San Diego (originally from Framingham)
Thank you, Susan, for your Christmas blog! What a sweet way to end a wonderful Christmas Day! I love home, too! It’s not the biggest, newest or even like the house in “Something’s Gotta Give!” (Love that movie!), but it’s all ours and I, we can do whatever we want to with it. Looking forward to “Happy New Year 2013” with you and your blogs and Willards.
Oh, Holly Oak is the sweetest little house!! And I so enjoyed seeing all the pictures of the other sweet little houses, especially your very own. We are leasing the sweetest cottage right now and I pray we can stay here a long time. I am having some health problems and cannot work right now, so making those payments each month is getting a little hard, but I know that even if we have to move, God has another little cottage waiting for us. And what fun it is to decorate and make it our very own “home.” For love is what makes it “home.”
Merry Christmas!!
Blessings – Robin
Merry Christmas. . . you have such a gift! Thank you for your words and inspiration. We miss your charming store in Arroyo Grande, but so glad we can still purchase from you on-line. Of course, all of your books are on our bookshelf, but having one signed would be the best. Thank you for sharing your creativeness, thoughtfulness and love of life with the world!
Hi Susan, I am a transplant from the Midwest to Southern California. I love homes and miss the character of homes that are numerous back east – harder to find in Orange County. I loved your blog and pictures of the homes. I looked at your first home tried to imagine what it looked like inside all the rooms. Is that home still around with someone living in it? If so, have you been back inside your first home?
Merry Christmas Susan! I love your books and would love to be the lucky receipant of a copy of your first book.
Your love of life and home come shining clearly through your drawings, books and blog posts.You bring light in a dark and worriesome time.thank you for reminding us that there is still beauty,love and comfort in this world.
Susan,
Merry Christmas! Just winding down a wonderful Christmas day. Had our final snack. Dishes are done. Family just left. May I say : Family is what makes a house a home – especially at holiday time. Have always loved our home and I appreciate it even more since our home flooded almost two years ago and we lived in a hotel and rented home for six monthes. It’s good just to be HOME!Hope you had a great Christmas!
Jan