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
Hi Susan,
Thank you for your wonderful story. I love reading your blog and look forward to seeing all the beautiful things you post. Your house is beautiful. Thank you for sharing your life.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I love houses…new and old. Maybe it’s because I’ve lived in so many growing up in a military family. Happily, now though, I’ve been able to live and raise a family in the same eighty year-old house for 30 years…the more she creaks,the more I love her…sorta gives her her own personality. Thank you, Susan, for so warmly writing what so many of us think and feel. And, not just about old houses…just about everything in every season. Happy New Year to you, Joe, and your furry friends from the snowy midwest…we had a foot of snow today! The storm is moving east, so I think MV may have some tomorrow,
I really enjoyed seeing your very first home. So special. I too love to look at homes when I travel. I moved into my home a few months before my first son was born. He just turned 40 in November. Time has gone by so quickly. Wonderful memories. I would love to receive your book, it would be my first. Thanks for all you do.
Oh Susan yes you have my heart…are we twins…yes twins of the heart… I too have a white house only theme in my smallest room…something restful but magical in that decorating style. Happy New Year…
OOOH! I remember this book and loved it when I saw it, but did not have the fundage at the time to purchase it! I hope you choose me 🙂
Love this post about the “magic” of houses!
Christmas is over but not quite yet in my heart. Sitting here all cozy with the memories of this past year. Some quite painful – some sweet, heartwarming. Thank you for your beautiful post. I’m late getting to it but so happy I did. I’ve loved it. HAPPY NEW YEAR to you, Joe, kitties and all your loves….
I NEVER stop dreaming of houses. Never stop looking for them either.
Oh Susan, I would just love to have a copy of Heart of the Home! I can’t tell you how much joy I get from reading your blog, so I can just imagine how much I would enjoy this book. You have given us all so many wonderful tips and ideas on how to fill our homes with warmth and love this Christmas. Thank you so much for taking time to share your talents with all your girlfriends. Wish I lived next door to you, so I could share a cup of tea and Christmas cookie or two with you. Enjoy the rest of this grand time of year!
Love from Texas~Donna
Hello Susan, I just love your blog. It makes me feel so warm inside. You know the right things to say and I loved your first little cottage on MV. It’s so homey looking. And your kitties….I love them. Keep up the great blog!
Your friend,
Linda
A belated Merry Christmas, Susan! I feel like I know you because you are so wonderful to share all about yourself and your life. Thank you for being such a giving, loving person – such a wonderful example to everyone! Yes, I have several of your wonderful books, but not this one. I have had your little Christmas book for so many years, and it is always one of the first things I do each December – it puts me in the Christmas spirit of giving! Thanks for blessing everyone with everything that you do! Happy 2013 to you, as well.
Every time I read your blog, I get such a peaceful feeling and of course inspiration! Thank you Susan! Merry Christmas and wishing you a Happy 2013!
This room where my computer is, it’s always so cold! But looking at your photos and drawings really warms me up on the inside. Your first Vineyard home, so lovely! Thank you for sharing 🙂
I love houses too. I especially love to see the inside. I love to go open houses and estate sales just to see the inside. I get so many good ideas for decorating my home. We have lived in our little English cottage revival house for two years now and I have lots more decorating/renovating to do. One room that is finished is my daughter’s room. Reading your books and blog have inspired me greatly. We call it the bunny room. It is so cute, I wish you could see it.
Susan you touched my old heart!! Houses AND barns have always been my passion too. A recurring dream I have had for decades is that we have moved.
Actually we have lived in this house for 60 years! I wake up and am so happy to find it was just a dream. One time I jumped out of bed and kissed the door frame on the closet because I was so happy to find I was still in the house I love. LOL. Another time in my dream I told myself that I was only dreaming!
When I was only in my 20’s I bought Family Circle for 2 cents at the grocery store and would sit down to read Butternut Wisdom before I would put away the groceries. we visited Stillmeadow in 1978. I have 14 of The Stillmeadow books. My favorites to this day.
I love your blog, love the old songs, and “When Shadows Fall” has always brought tears to my eyes ( I get so homesick) and when Sam Cooke sings it I am tearful. Thank you for bringing HIS rendition to me!!!
Happy New Year to you Joe and the kitties!!
Hi Susan,
I have never visited Martha’s Vineyard, but I hope someday I will. Seeing it through your eyes makes it seem so very special! I love houses, too. I live in an old house in Charles Town, WV. It is a small town with lots of history and other old houses. There is nothing like an old house living. They are just so unique. I hope you enjoy the Christmas season and have a beautiful New Year!
Two favorite houses for me are 1) “the little house” on Orchard with the red front door where we 3 kids grew up; 2) Grandma’s house across town with its wrap around porch, lots of rooms we were allowed to explore, and where the cousins visited when they came to town.
Merry Christmas Susan,
Thank you for your house post! I have always loved houses, one of the reasons I have your first book. The title got my attention and then your artwork. Thank you for sharing and making my day brighter always.
Jackie
I have always, always loved houses, too, in just the same way – ever since I was a very young girl years ago and still today.
When I saw the picture of you outside of Holly Oak my heart swelled. “I want to be there with my kitties.” Your blog and art work make me smile. I have purchased every calendar since you have offered them and I give them as gifts to my besties every year so that we are all looking at the same beautiful pictures at the same time no matter how far apart we are!
Merry Christmas Susan, thank you for sharing your lovely, Christmasy home. We may have the Tropical version of your “cottage”. We have a little house with a white picket fence and a screened porch for the cats, Sunshine and Riley, and Gypsy the Aussie to while away the days. With a kitty cat mailbox and a Mermaid gracing our roof we are set! We are fortunate Floridians to have wood floors and a real wood burning fireplace to use the ONE day a year that it is cold enough. Today , Dec 26 , it is 85 degrees. Happy New Year!
Your Holly Oak cottage is So Sweet! Would Love to see photos of the inside of it sometime! I’ve always adored sweet, cozy, little houses with porches and white picket fences. My family moved around the country several times when I was growing up, so I always dreamed of growing up in the same house, like in the old TV show “My Three Sons”. (although that one was a much larger house!) England’s thatched-roof cottages have always enchanted me, too. What would it be like to live in one of those??! Love your cozy “wood room”! Your lovely home has so many charming rooms! Mostly due to your wonderful decorating, of course. I do believe it’s a woman’s touch that makes a house a home! Merry wishes for a wonderful New Year!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours! I enjoyed seeing the “homes” in your post. I live in a 100 year old home and we recently screened in our wrap-around porch like it was in a picture I have from the early years of it’s life. We look forward to many happy days with friends and family on the porch!
What sweet comments about your home. I love the way you describe things. I hope you and Joe have the best year ever – to come !
Sincerely, Nicki
I loved your Christmas blog about homes I also have the same love for houses and homes and every famous cottage I go to in England I collect. Lilliputian Lane Cottage.I also got your recipe keeper for Christmas, my daughter in excited thatvI will be copying my recipes down ..Hope you had a lovely christmas .
Lovely article about homes – snowing on my little house right now. I have a lovely oil cloth painting of my grandmother’s house done years ago which I now treasure as she just passed away this year at the age of 99 and we are forced to sell her home of over 50 years. She was always taking pictures of her house in every season. Think I’ll start doing that with my home too. Love the cookbook – been a favorite go-to for me.
Dear Susan,
How lovely of you to send us such wonderful thoughts of heart and home!
Happy New Year!
Cocoa from San Diego
Dear Susan, You are right- Home is ALWAYS the best place to be !!
I love a long time lived in home, too. My father was career Air Force, so we moved alot when I was growing up and now I like the stability of living in one place for a long time.
Hi Susan, Beautiful blog. I’ve a new friend; have known her parents for years. Jennifer has just bought a 90- year old house (nearby). Adorable!! I will be acquainting her with your blog once she’s settled in, and can’t wait to do so! Would love to give her your “Heart of the Home” book and be able to say it’s from you. Please tell Vanna to count me in!
P.S. I have the book and it’s a treasure.
I am a house person, too, since second grade. Did you ever read Virginia Lee Burton’s picture book The Little House? I must have worn out my teacher’s copy of that book and then the library’s. I love to drive–no, ride and look a houses. I still have favorite houses that I look for every time we drive to Fl. My favorite house, though, is my own. My sister and I were taking a short cut to the mall one day and I saw it. We pulled in the driveway and walked around. (It was for sale and empty. When I saw the bay window in the dining room and the hooks for a porch swing on the side porch, I was hooked. The basement door was unlocked and we went in and saw all the interesting rooms with window seats and built in drawers in the upstairs bedrooms. My husband and I had not been married a year and were definitely not looking for a house yet but I knew it was my forever house and we did buy it. Still here 40 yrs later and still feel so lucky to have it. Though it’s way too small for most people’s taste and the bathrooms are small and not your spa room of today, I wouldn’t trade it for any other one. It looks like one you painted for a calendar several years ago and before you went to England you said you might see if there was a way for me to get a copy with the “house” quote that was with it. I think I might not be the only person interested. Anyway, thanks for this post, I LOVED it. (And you might want to look up The Little House. I have a copy on an end table in the living room!)
Carol, what a lovely story! Your home is a treasure and it was meant to be yours! It’s amazing that you just happened upon this little house… and then made it your home. So happy that you are still there ~ enjoying every day! I also remember The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton. I also had it in my second grade classroom! Such a sweet story!
♡ Dawn
Carol and Dawn, Make that three of us Little House lovers. I remember Captain Kangaroo reading that book on his show. Years later, I worked at a book store and ordered a copy for myself. Another couple decades later and my daughter loves the same book. The concept of Home as a member of the family that embraces us in all times is so comforting. When we think of family, the home we live in is part of it too.
What a love story! You heart heard that house whispering to you. I also grew up loving the book The Little House. I think of it when I see a charming old house waiting to be rescued.
Happy New Year to you and your family in your darling home!
❌⭕❌⭕,
Tawni Urrutia in Lodi, Ca
I live in a small old farmhouse that once belonged to my grandparents. It is where my father lived for a time in his childhood. He was in the military and we lived all over the place when I was little. He told me once that when he retired, he wanted to come back here to live. He died when I was ten, and we did move back to this area. When my husband and I were dating, I brought him out here, it was abandoned at that time. He moved in and began to fix it up, and I moved in when we married six years later. We have been here over thirty years now, and I love my little imperfect home! We raised our children here, and now our grandson visits us for Sunday dinner each week. I often wish my father and grandparents knew that we lived in their home. So I loved it when you mentioned us leaving our mark on the homes we inhabit. I think we have given this old cottage some extra love, and I hope it is pleased that we brought it back from the brink of ruin.
Susie, this isvthe BEST story ever! I’m sure your grandparents are smiling down on you and your family. Maybe one of YOUR grandchildren will raise their family in that very home! Happy New Year in your ❤ cottage!
❌⭕❌⭕,
Tawni Urrutia, in Lodi, Ca
Susie – Tawni is so right! This is a wonderful, wonderful story! LOVED reading it. And PS – your dad and your grandparents? They know… xoxo :>)
Merry Christmas Susan from my home to yours!
I love this post! It is very Heart of the Home. I have been following you since 1994 when I first moved away from home. You have been an inspiration for years. Everywhere I’ve moved (3 states), every apartment, townhouse, house and condo you have been a part of what brings life in. A favorite recipe, a stack of notepads, my thank you cards…etc. I just love seeing home through your eyes. You really have an art for bringing the love and warmth of home to all.
Thank you for your beautiful blog. I love the picture of your first home, it looks so cozy. I hope that you have a wonderful Christmas!
Angela
Oh, little/big book called ‘Heart of the Home’,,, won’t you come reside on my kitchen shelf? Would love to have you join my collection! Happy Holidays…
Love the blog, as always. I’m a Navy brat and learned that Home is where you hang your hat. My mom would always sew curtains, hang pictures, etc. and make every place we lived Home. She could do anything; sew, quilt, crochet, knit, embroider, paint pictures, re-purpose furniture, etc., so now whether I own or rent, I always make it Home. When we were kids, we used to pile in the car and go with my mom to what was then called “second hand stores” and find treasures. Now they are called antique stores. My new favorite treasure that I recently found is a vintage Edwin Knowles bowl with little flowers painted on the rim and painted at the top of the rim is a darling cottage in the woods with smoke curling out of the chimney. I have my oatmeal in it every morning and it makes me smile. I love your books and would love to add Heart of the Home to my collection.
Home Sweet Home! Nothing like it in the world, and my favorite place to be! I live in the house which belonged to my Nana & Pop-Pop all the years of their married lives. It has been in my family for 75 years now! There are so many memories and so much love within these walls. I treasure my home and thank you for sharing yours!
Stay safe and warm inside your lovely house during the storm, Susan! A special thanks to Girl Kitty for posing for some photos! I just love to see your kitties!
Love,
Pamela Jo
~xoxo~
This was a very heart warming post! I love your first home. My first home was a small bungalow, actually we raised 3 daughters in it. Two bedrooms and 1 bath. Now we have a very large home in the woods, room for all the grands. I would love to win your signed book!
I too share your love of houses. Loved this post. Thank you for sharing one of your books and your cozy Wood Room with us..
Nanci
I had to add this: The comment from Kerry S in San Pedro, CA …. I live in San Pedro, CA… A small world. LOL !
Also, as you mentioned in your blog: the lovely homes from the movies. I too LOVE Mrs. Miniver’s house – but also the sweet cottage from the movie The Enchanted Cottage. Much like your photos from Great Britain. Thanks again for your wonderful blog. luv.m.
I agree with you about houses (especially old houses) in movies. When my youngest son was a baby the only thing that would put him to sleep was Baby Boom. We watched it so often the VCR tape shredded one evening. Whenever I make applesauce in the winter I still daydream about that kitchen. I also can’t figure out why Meryl Streep’s character wanted to redo her kitchen in It’s Complicated. Looked great to me. Since I’m on kitchens…yours looks so comfortable and warm. After all these thoughts of kitchens, I think I’ll go into mine and make your cranberry apple crisp from your Autumn book. Haven’t been able to find a copy of Heart of the Home, but I keep looking. Thanks for all your posts and Happy New Year!
Thanks So Much Susan! Merry Christmas to you and Joe!! (and little Christmas “nuzzles” to the kitties :0)
Home. But missing a few ‘back home’ that make it H.O.M.E. :0)
I have not seen anything like your books in Australia,Susan. Would love to have a copy. I will have to search some book shops to see if I can find a copy. Merry Christmas and a Safe New Year.
I love driving slowly in different neighborhoods looking at all the houses and their gardens. It is a wonderful way to get ideas to bring home for my own home. I love your website. You make everyday chores feel like such a gift that we get to do instead of having to do. Thank you for the inspiration.
Hi Susan,
Thank you for cheering me today. I so needed it. That adorable little cabin in the woods would cheer anyone! How lucky you were to find such a darling home for yourself and the kitties. I love all the “house” pictures in your wood room, also.
You continue to be a blessing to me (and the other girlfriends) and I thank you for that.
Hoping Vanna finds her way through all the other deserving girlfriends names and come out with mine! I’d love to add your first book to my Susan Branch collection!
Happy Boxing Day!
♥Deb♥
I love your blog and your books and the pictures of your homes and others. I have especially enjoyed your England trip stories and look forward to your journal and paintings.
Susan, I have a dear friend, she and her husband built their dreamhouse from an old log house, that they had torn down, and taken the materials to their mountain property. She moved in on a Christmas Eve day, and she was so sad. she missed her other home. It just didn’t feel like home to her. So her sister took a little decorated evergreen, and our girlfriends gathered plates of beautiful cookies.. we made a visit to her that day. All the packed boxes.. and this old house.. she started to cry. I sat with her, and said that it’s the memories that will make that house a home.. when she has family gatherings, and grandchildren.. Birthdays, and Christmases.. all the laughter, and quiet conversations.. Loved shared and moments.. Then it will be a home.. she smiled.
Years have come and gone, and Sherry and Johns’ beautiful log home, is the warmest, most coziest place I know.. And, she has told me many times, she remembers our visit that day. And it is true. The photos that adorn the walls, of all the smiles, and new grandchildren.. Love will always abide there. God bless you , Susan, and Thank goodness for all the wonderful girlfriends.. who always get us through, and make our hearts smile!
I love looking at houses and wondering how they look inside. I have visited friends and have felt the charm of their house. I would love to have a copy of your book.
I would absolutely love to have your Heart of the Home book. You are my inspiration. I have been in my home for 31 years but I’m yearning to have a different home — doesn’t quite have the “right fit” even after all these years (could be the memory of two ex-husbands living here — at different times, of course)! I am limited on changes I can make because I am in a flood plain (creek running through the back — more of a drainage ditch than a creek). They didn’t have all the restrictions when I bought the house, but things have changed over the years. I have always dreamed of an English Tudor house, but most of them are not in my price range. Mine will be paid for in October, so I’ve got some decisions to make. If I do stay in the same house, I certainly look to you for ideas on how to make it more “homey”! You and Joe both AMAZE me with all the different things you do and ideas you come up with. Thanks for being such a “breath of fresh air” in my days when I receive your blog.
Hi Susan,
Another wonderful comforting message, you give us so many. I love reading everything you write, and always say “me too”! Thank you for taking the time to share this with all your girlfriends, we appreciate it.
Wishing you a cozy New Year’s Eve in your beautiful home, and a wonderful New Year. Looking forward to reading your book.
Take Care, Lisa
Merry Christmas Susan! It’s been a cold, snowy, lazy day here in Southwest Virginia, and I am just now having a chance to catch up on several weeks of your posts. I enjoyed my cinnamon apple cider and got caught up on them all. So funny how so many of us “old souls” are alike. My sister and I have always loved old homes, and I live in a well loved old house, and still stay in touch with the previous owner. She misses her childhood home, but knows that we are loving and taking care of it in her place. Anyway, my sister and I have always loved driving by and “stalking” other homes of character– trying to peek in the windows and see how they are decorated! We Laugh at ourselves!
Merry Christmas Susan, hope you and Joe have had a good one!
We got our first real snow today they are calling it the Blizzard of 2012!!! The snow came down fast and hard I think they said 2″ an hour, and when it was all done we ended up with 9″ of snow. I have to say it is very pretty and keeping everyone inside instead of storming into the Malls to exchange all the unwanted gifts they received yesterday!!! Not me I am keeping everything that I received because most of mine were handmade and I wouldn’t trade them for the world. I think the news said our weather is coming your way Susan….here comes your snow….enjoy!
Home – there isn’t a sweeter word at the end of the day. Your book would be a great addition to my library. 🙂
Hi Susan,
What an enchanting post……………truly magical. I am a teacher in Connecticut and this past week has been the most difficult of my career. Tonight though I am snuggled up with my three little boys (Dad’s at work) and it’s snowing outside. I can’t begin to tell you how the simple things are truly the most important and we should never forget that. Your posts always make me feel like I’m home and I thank you for that .
Gaynor
Thank you for what you do Gaynor… we need you more than ever.♥
I am sitting here drinking my tea out of the ADORABLE mug I ordered from your shop and reading this wonderful blog. I just feel so good right now (even though I am fighting a cold)! You always know how to touch the girlfriends hearts with your words!
xoxo Jan, thank you!
Oh Susan, I love houses, too! I’ve made a quilt with 9 different house blocks and every time I see another quilt with a house theme I want to make that one too! Thanks for sharing your loves with us! Happy New Year!
I also dreamed a many a year for a home and luckily I found mine 3 years ago, a little one story where we decided to take care of my husbands parents, some days the home is big and some days the home is small, but my home none the less.
But I deffinatly have room for such a wonderful little book.
Much love and hope that 2013 brings happiness health and wealth to all.
Delightful post. Houses, gardens and barns have always caught my attention. And while traveling at night, to spy warm, cozy lighted homes inspires me to imagine a happy family inside.
Inspiring post. I’m 24, paying off student loans and living with my parents..some days it feels like I’m so far off, but I know I will have a little space to call my own one day. Thank-you and hope you are enjoying the holidays!
Twenty-four and a house of my own was barely a twinkle in my eye … you are so young and there is so much good to come! Savor your moments Cassandra! Happy 2013!
Thank you, Susan, for that lovely blog on houses. I think there are a lot of us ladies out here who also love homes. It starts when we’re little girls playing with our dollhouses and then continues when we get the opportunity to decorate our own houses or apartments. There is a great blog for people like us called hookedonhouses.com and it features the actual homes in movies like Baby Boom, Home Alone, Something’s Gotta Give, Sleepless in Seattle, Father of the Bride, and many more. Here’s wishing a very happy New Year to you and Joe.
I love your wood room -it is so warm and inviting. Just like all of your books! I never get tired of reading your books, your blog, your calenders, everything you do!! Thank you 🙂
Susan—I love your heartwarming (home-warming?) little stories. I like to ride by homes at night & see the people inside by the lights in their homes. Not peeping exactly, just imagining what’s going on in a homey-looking cottage. Oh well, Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. Love Girl Kitty so much—-Jack is very cute, but there’s just something so charming about Girl.
Hi Susan~
My husband and I have been married for 16 years and I love to look at pictures of our first little home. We had odd and end furniture given to us from our parents and the rest was gifts from our wedding….a couple sets of sheets, a few pots and pans etc. I can still remember the first night I fixed dinner in our new home, it took me 4 hours! Ha! We lived there for 6 years and moved when we started a family. Now, 3 daughters later, I love how our home has developed so much character and heart. Living in a small home brings our family closer together. The girls love to put on talent shows for us… singing and playing “guitars” with a tennis rackets. We cuddle together in cozy blankets, eat popcorn and enjoy the simplicity of just being together watching movies. Especially during Christmas Break! We had our first snow today, the big fat snowflakes that start off really wet and then begin to make a blanket on the ground. Our home is toasty warm and I know the other homes around us are too. I can see smoke coming from chimneys.:) Hope you had a wonderful Christmas…Happy New Year too! I filled out my new SB Calendar today with birthdays, activities and all that fun stuff. Take care Susan!
Love and Hugs~
Dana B
Hi Susan! I have been reading your books for quite awhile and I LOVE THEM! I love the feel of HOME and all the adorable art work. I have several of them,but not that one. Would love to win it. Can’t wait til your English Diary is published. I love all things English! Happy Holidays -Glenna Partin
This Christmas Holiday was extra special as I was painting my visit to the Lake District and Beatrix Potter’s house …. it has been HEAVEN.
Susan, I am so proud of you for working so hard through the years to make your dream come true! You are such an inspiration to me. I would dearly love to be the owner of your first book. I’m going right now to see if you have any more wall calendars for sale. Hope so. Thanks so much for your generosity.
Happy New Year!
Nancy (from Bakersfield)
Merry Christmas, Thanks for always making me smile.
Susan, I would love to add this to my collection. I have been looking for it, but have been unable to find it anywhere. Happy New Year to all & Kisses to the Kitties!
I got my Heart of the Home book many years ago, and have bought or received as gifts every book since. I read them cover-to-cover during the proper season at least yearly and cannot possibly tell you how much joy and relaxation I have received from them. Not to mention, tastey meals and treats.
Happy New Year to you, Susan and your family…including the furry ones. Thanks for giving me something beautiful and positive to read and all the wonderful pictures to look at throughout this past year.
Sent with love…
We have the Dept 56 Alpine Village collection that we put out for Christmas … the kids and I love to imagine what it’s like inside those sweet, warm, little homes! 🙂
Just opened your 2013 Calendar and hung it in my office! Love it! 🙂
Hello Susan and thank you once again for bringing an incredibly realistic, touching and simply genuine feel to your writings, sharing your thoughts with us and gracing us with your charming art. Life presents us all with challenges. I haven’t taken the time to comment of late but I hold on to your blog emails and read through them when I need a special pick me up, then wait for more to flutter in. Your life in Holly Oak sounded pretty perfect but your diary page certainly indicated the unfolding of your life beyond the well lit little home, pretty perfect! I do love homes & barns but have an affinity for windows, I love to take photos of them, looking in or out, especially when there is a kitty contemplating life at the window. I often wonder how quickly you come up with the blog ideas, whether you have them listed ahead of time or if they sometimes just come to you as you move through your day and see something to spark the idea? Writing but then gathering photos takes time and I thank you for sharing your life with us as frequently as you do. Bless you and Happy New Year!
Thank you Wendy … I think I would blog every day we didn’t have a need for an income! I love it so much! I have so many stories to tell … they’re all just sort of standing in line in my brain!
So lovely. Always a treat to see them materialize ‘on paper’ and good to know they will be endless!!! Such a gift you give to us. Thanks!
I love your blog and your books. I love driving around looking at homes too! Thank you for your inspiration.
I love houses too!!! You’ve expressed exactly what I feel as well! As always, I so enjoy reading your blogs…it’s a spot to share your thoughts with those of kindred spirit. <3
Susan, I love loves homes too. Sometimes when we are riding around I wish I could see both sides of the road at once! I don’t think my husband really understands the deep love and attraction I have for homes, especially ones that look homey and cozy, the ones that have a heart. I will say oh, look at that one, look at the heart and character it has. He says our home is nice too. He doesn’t understand that I just LOVE certain houses! I adore my own home it is small by a lot of people’s standards but, it is homey and and completely redone by my husband and I, so much of “us” in it. One time a big burly trucker came back here (we live 1800 ft. off the road) he was looking for a neighbor of ours and he came in and just stopped and looked all around. He got the biggest grin on his face. Then he said this is the coziest homey place I have ever seen. It is just so welcoming! I never forgot that. Because it was just the way I wanted my home to be! It’s so nice to have someone share the same feelings ! Happiest of New Year’s to you and Joe and the kitties! You brighten my life so much.
What a nice compliment from that guy! Thank you Mary!
Love all the houses! Great post!
I still think of my California home I left behind when I lost my first husband Jim. I loved that house! But I came to Kansas and built my dream house, which I still own, but never lived in because I found love again with Dan, and live in his house. Life is such an adventure!!!!!!!!!
You just never know!
I love old stone houses with stone fences, New England saltbox houses, and houses on the Cape near the beach with weathered gray shingles. And ANY house in England! Homes that have had a lot of living going on inside, homes with history. I don’t think I could ever live in a brand new house! And I love the picture in your wood room that you drew, the home with the stone fence and kitties sitting on it!
That was my first house, after I’d put a fireplace on it, and built it a real actual bedroom!
I would really enjoy your book sitting open on my lap, while I sip tea. So maybe my name will come up 🙂
I loved your comments on home! Home is meaning so much to me right now, since we are just finishing building a home after 10 years of not having our own house, though always taking our “home” with us wherever we went! Thank you so much for all the love and friendship you express to us all in your blog!
Your blogs show up in my mail like a little Christmas gift waiting to be opened and savored. Which I do! I have introduced you to my two new daughters in law. They each received your Love book for a Christmas present. They were SO excited. And I was so grateful to have you to share with them. Your love of life and home embodies everything that I too cherish, only you put it into words and pictures like no other. Thank you for sharing your life with us girlfriends.
xoxo Tina!
This year I will begin to write things down so that they can come true,Happy New Year!
I love your stories of houses and home. I firmly believe that even if one lives in an old shack in someone’s backyard, it’s still ‘home’ and a refuge to that person. All of our homes, be it a single room, an attic, a basement, an apartment, can be improved with a little love and a little time and a little attention. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and inspiration on how to do that!
And may you and Joe have a very happy new year. ~_~
This a beautiful story. Your homes are different, small, medium and large but always the same. Always happiness, love, understanding, compassion, fun and Whimsy..Have a Happy, Safe and Healthy New Year….and Susan, Thank you. Bevy, So. Calif
As a bona fide homebody I enjoyed looking at all the homes pictured in this post. Would love to find a spot in my bookcase for your first book.
I loved your blog about homes. We have lived in ours since we bought it 7 months after we were married 44 years ago. When we were looking for a house to buy, we wanted one with a basement and a fireplace. This one had a fireplace, but no basement. But there was a charm that drew us in. Friends of my parents had owned years earlier, when I was a girl. It had a happiness to it. So we decided that we wanted a fireplace more than a basement! We have been here all these years, raising our three sons and loving the neighboorhood. Now our boys bring their children here ancd create more memories. Yesterday on Christmas morning one son taught his own little son to ride his new bicycle out in front of the house, just as my husband had taught him to ride. Their was a sweetness about it that I treasure. I agree with what you said about homes having character. Hope you had a wonderful Christmas. I love this week between Christmas and New Years, when everything is still festive and holidayish, but the hustle and bustle has quieted and we can relax and enjoy the rest of this special time of year.
I love old houses too! I like’d hearing how they have all the memories in them.
Thank you, Susan
Thank you so much for sharing this. I often forget that I can still have heart felt dreams to reach for. This was a wonderful reminder and inspiration.
I painted all of my Christmas cards this year. I have been practicing with watercolors. I have a long way to go but am enjoying it. Another inspiration from you. The therapy from it has been a blessing as has checking in on your blog.
Happy New Year!
Daralyn
What a wonderful thing to do Daralyn! How special!
When my husband and I got married we moved into an 800 sq ft home built in 1938. She was small and white and surrounded by a cherry orchard. She radiated charm and cheer. An old graceful walnut orchard was across the street. And once in awhile a lazy Central Traction train would roll down the track that flanked the trees.The only heat was a small wall heater and a side heater on the darling Wedgewood stove. A few times we woke up to find ice in the toilet! I just loved living in that honeymoon cottage. I was given the Heart of the Home and Vineyard Seasons books for a wedding shower gift. The magic that leapt from the pages of those books helped me build the nest that filled my heart with joy. They also helped me build a foundation of food and decorating that have become hallmarks of traditions in our family.
I am blessed to be a faux finisher/decorative painter, so I get to see many beautiful homes filled with wonderful, funny, smart families. Hooray for houses big and small that whisper stories of all the families that have lived there in the past. Thank you Susan for planting so many seeds of love and happiness. They have bloomed with fervor in the Urrutia home!
❌⭕❌⭕,
Tawni Urrutia in Lodi, Ca
How darling your honeymoon cottage!
A’ Merry’ hello ! And a God Bless You and Joe ‘Christmas’, Sweet Susan. Home and Heart and Hearth ; so sweet the sound. May the ‘New Year, greet you with more of everything that you already have,just in abundance… To be safe and warm and filled with boundless love,who could want more ? Except in the giving of these things; Much love, Veronica Sumerduck, Va.
I have always loved houses…I always wonder who lives there? And what would it be like to live in that house? I started a collection of Lilliput Lane houses years ago and although I haven’t bought one in years, I love the ones I have. I have a painting of a row of beach cottages, purchased on one of the many beach trips my husband and I have taken over the years, a framed cross-stitch of Williamsburg houses (I stitched it when cross-stitching was so popular!) and am currently making a quilt (my newest passion) made of blocks with appliqued houses. Not a large collection, but each has a special memory! Thank you for reminding me how much I love my houses!
Happy New Year to you and your family! I’m looking forward to reading your sweet little blog in 2013 🙂
Dear Susan…I love this post! (Do I say that every time I read your blog??
Happy New Year to you and Joe and Girl and Jack!
Your blog is like having a friend right next door…….a dream!
Thank you for offering up your book—I have many but not that particular one.
Cant wait to hang up my new Susan Branch 2013 calender!!!!
Dear Susan,
There is nothing more comforting than to have a place called home. Thank you for this beautiful post!
I want to tell you about an exciting thing that happened to me at our church just before Christmas. We were having a gift exchange that could be a gift of something old or something new…..and one of the rules was that when your turn came you could take away someone else’s gift that had already been opened or take one that was still wrapped. Well, much to my surprise a little boy chose and opened a gift that turned out to be one of your books from 1995 called Christmas Joy. My eyes just about popped out of my head when I saw what gift he had opened! Fortunately, my turn had not yet come to select a gift from the pile or “take away” a gift from someone. Needless to say, when my turn came I took your book from the little boy………..don’t worry, he was more than happy to give it up to me…..because he got to choose another gift from the pile! I squealed with delight! This is my very first Heart of the Home Book! I am now on a mission to add many more to my collection! 🙂
Hope you had a Merry Christmas and may your New Year be filled with many blessings!
With Love from Maryland,
Terry
LOL, that’s great!! I’m sure that book was a great disappointment to that little boy … it went to the right person! Hope he got something more to his own little spirit!
……..little houses are my favorite too…….
Thank you for this lovely post. We have a home that’s not too big, but I am still dreaming of a little cottage or cabin with a deep front porch so you can curl up in a chair when it rains and not get wet. For me, smaller is cozier. Thank you for reminding me to write about it. Merry Christmas and a blessed new year!
You give meaning to what a home is in you writings. I have moved 18 times in 45 years so I have never felt at home but when I read your blog and what your home means to you it gives me hope that maybe this house will finally feel like home. Thank you for writiing such wonderful things about your home, your love and your kitties. It warms the very being of my soul. Have a blessed NewYear!
Hi Susan,
Just wondering, do you ever catch a bit of melancholy after the holidays? And if so, what do you do/think/tell yourself to snap out of it? I’m thinking you are perenially chipper so may not have an answer and that’s ok. I know it’s short lived and all things go back on an even keel. Thanks for the lovely posting and here’s cheers to you and yours in 2013!
One thing to be sure of Carrie, that you are taking Vitamin D3. We just passed the shortest day of the year and light deprivation plays havoc with some people, including me. But Vitamin D3 changed everything for me, and I am always happy now! The things that cheer me up are homey things. Cook something for someone. Or make something. And nature, try to go outside if you can. And then, count your blessings out loud, you will be surprised at how much that cheers a person up. Don’t forget to include how darling you are! It’s important to say, I am Darling, I am Adorable, out loud. xox Hope this helps.
Haha! I just walked down the hall at work and was telling myself I am darling I am adorable – and made a couple other people laugh and agree! Yes, it’s good to tell yourself that! Try it in front of others and see what they have to say. (Wait – Better check out the expressions on their faces BEFORE you say it so you don’t get your feelings hurt!)
Thanks, Susan. As always, you brighten my day!!
…and Carrie – You are darling. You are adorable. Don’t ever forget it! 🙂
♥Deb♥
I don’t usually try it in front of others! LOL!! I may have to go try it on Joe!
I feel sad that my comment disappeared and yesterday I didn’t see everyone else’s comments that followed mine. Something is up. Well…I hope everyone had a very merry and blessed Christmas.
I have always loved YOUR little house, and thought I should have stayed somewhere when I downsized where I could find a little cottage style house.
I hope everyone is safe and warm after the last few days of storms!
Something is always up around here Margot! Sorry!
Oh I am going out of my mind. As we say here, ti-red. I found my comment and got to read the ones that followed.
I was wondering about the picture you drew with the stone fence. Do you sell that print? I can’t decide whether I like stone fences or white picket fences. Aah…cozy.
I know, it’s a big decision because they are both beautiful. Nice thing about stone, it’s forever! I framed that painting many years ago, and have never taken it out of its frame, so there aren’t any prints of it.
Well…It is beautiful!
Merry Christmas Susan! My grandmother gifted me two very special pieces this Christmas: a plastic, light up Santa face and a dear light up snowman both from 1951. They are displayed with love in my home! I also gifted to her.. YOU! I opened my calendars from my Mom and Grandma asked who the darling woman was who could draw so beautifully. I immediately loaded your website onto her iPad. 🙂 If Vanna draws my name, this book will go to Grandma. 🙂 Thank you for all you do! Happiest of Holidays to you!!
Oh, that’s so sweet. Love hearing that Jen. Hi to your Mom and Grandma from me!
Still dreaming of my first house – much older than 33, but have faith it will happen. I’m able to have a tiny wildflower garden by the back door of my apartment and grow my favorite zinnias in containers. Thanks for sharing your home, kitties, gardens and the Vineyard with us. Happy New Year!
I have none of your books, so I would love to have a copy of your first one.
I have the same “house passion”. Years ago I did a small counted cross stitch picture for myself from a photograph of my grandparents’ house that is hanging on my wall. Your “Heart of the Home” title is so appropriate, and it’s always a joy to read your blog. New Year blessings to you.