Oh, I have treats to show you, blazing fire too! Here’s treat #1: Musica
Something delicious is cooking!
Where do we start . . . let’s see, how about here. . .
This is Titcombs Bookshop in Sandwich on Cape Cod where I went to sign books last week. But look what they did — with brown plastic tablecloths, they made the front of their shop into a gingerbread house! They cut heavy white paper plates in half and glued them around the doors and windows, and used some as edges to the “house” . . . they made candies out of them too, and lollypops in the window boxes. Isn’t that brilliant!?! I thought so too. I’d love to try this on our house next year.
I’m almost all unpacked from the trip now . . . I thought I’d show you some of the things I got at antique stores as we crossed the country. First off, lambs! You know how much I love lambs! I had a few before we went away, but on this trip whenever I saw one I thought would fit with my little group, I would get it. It was so fun to unwrap them, slowly, after forgetting what I’d gotten. I have a flock!
And look, treasure! I found a Beatrix Potter figurine of Samuel Whiskers! There was no possible way for me to leave him in that dusty old store, alone and unloved. I’d never seen this figurine before . . . did not even know what I was missing. Adorable thing, I saw it from across the room and honed in on it like a submarine sonar system. (Like I know what a submarine sonar system is, I think I made that up, but you know what I mean! Like Jack and his rubber band!) And now Samuel has friends. Never to be alone again.
And later, in another store, I found Mrs. Tittlemouse! Another BP person from 1948 I did not know existed. In her jaunty striped coat with the
bow on the back! She’s now lined up with the others on my kitchen shelf . . .
And look at this gorgeous vintage tea set I found! It was displayed on a starched white lace tablecloth in an antique store in Oklahoma City and practically glowed in the dark it was so pretty. I walked round and round it like a tiger in a cage. It was such a good deal, I couldn’t leave it there, so we wrapped it all in newspaper and brought it home, and now I’ve given it a nice soapy bath.
It’s all hand-painted, gold-edged, and made in England, it even came with an old silver sugar spoon!
The set serves six, it’s only missing one cup. But I mixed-and-matched it with both old and new china cups and mugs, to see what it looks like, and I think it’s even better. I love mismatched! You know what a dish person I am.
Here’s what it says on the bottom. I don’t think it has a pattern name; I’m thinking Tuscan is the name of the China company. Has anyone ever heard of it?
I love nesting . . . I’ve been making up for lost time . . .
We’re taking it slow . . . we haven’t even trimmed the tree yet. That’s OK, it’s in a bucket of water in the dining room, so we’re close. There’s a wreath on the front door, we’re getting there. We have Christmas in our hearts! I’m determined to enjoy this season and in order to do that, I want to go slow and not feel hurried. If something doesn’t get done, it won’t matter. A little poinsettia in the window is just fine for me . . .
I’m just happy to be . . .
I’m spending lots of time in the kitchen with my little buddy . . .
Jack is interested in everything I do, and everything that goes on outside our window ~
It’s been really cold, but beautiful . . . decorative cardinals have been flocking around the feeders. Note, you California/Florida Girlfriends, that there is no color out there in the garden, it is a sepia/white world here in the winter, which is why we were blessed with the Cardinal. What a gift!
And it’s not cold inside, it’s crackling and cozy and smells just wonderful . . .
One thing I’ve been doing is making a few little food-gift items for friends. This morning I made one of my favorite candies for this time of year, chocolate-covered Almond Brittle from page 132 of Vineyard Seasons. SO easy, and perfectly irresistible ~ and very mailable . . I thought I’d show you how, in case you have a last minute someone you’d like to please . . . . But first, more MUSICA for the kitchen dance . . .
So all you do is (don’t blink because this recipe is really fast!) put one pound of butter and two cups of sugar in a large heavy pot on top of your stove.
then pour in one-quarter cup of water . . . hook a candy thermometer to the side of the pan . . . don’t let the tip touch the bottom.
Melt the butter together with the sugar and the water over medium-high heat . . . boil mixture briskly until your candy thermometer reads 300°.
Stir and stir, boil and boil, and while you do you can count your blessings and . . .
watch the birds and stir a little more . . .
The mixture will cook and darken like brittle should. When it reaches the “crack” hard candy stage on your candy thermometer, 300°, remove the pan from the heat and quickly stir in two cups of sliced almonds.
Then spread the mixture thinly on an ungreased (plenty of butter already in the recipe) cookie sheet (or two) and allow it to cool.
When the brittle is almost cool, melt eight ounces unsweetened chocolate over low heat in a heavy pan, stirring constantly.
Then brush the warm chocolate over the top of the candy. Let it cool completely before you
break it up into pieces (I hit the bottom of the pan with a hammer to put hairline cracks in it all over, then I do the rest with a knife).
. . . and then I fill the tins and boxes I’ve collected to use for Christmas gifts . . . old ones and new ones from the pantry . . .
I had this darling box that I lined in a lace doily, and I knew the perfect person to give it to. . .
It’s the same person I’m giving the dishes to . . . the perfect little gift for . . .
Y O U !
Surprise! Yes, it’s YOU ♥ YOU ♥ YOU, (like bread and fishes, I wish it could be all of you, but for a few days, it will be only YOU, and then, one of you really will walk away with this elegant little English tea set, just in time for Downton Abbey! It’s my present to you. It’s been so long, I wanted it to be something nice. The minute I saw these dishes, I thought, my girls will love these. But then, I couldn’t send them out without a little homemade something! That wouldn’t be right. So I made you some Chocolate-Covered Almond Brittle to remember me by. Now all you have to do is leave me a
comment at the bottom of this post and you’ll automatically be entered for the drawing for the Tea Set and box of homemade candy.
(BTW, If this blog comes to your email box, in order to enter you will have to click on www.162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ and come here to the online version, then scroll to the bottom of this post, look for the tiny word “comments,” click on it and leave a word or two and you’ll be entered!)
Then our girl Vanna (Vanna is the same as a “random number generator” only our Vanna has a lot more verve and style) will be pressed back into service. She’s done NOTHING for months, it’s about time she earned her keep. In a few days she will choose one of your names from her giant Santa hat and I’ll announce the winner. Tell your friends too Girlfriends, your sisters and your mom, because even if you don’t win, you could get invited to Tea (possibly even Twine) at their house and have candy to boot. You can leave as many comments as you want, Vanna knows to only count each name once. She is a contest-engineering genius.
So while I’m cleaning up, I’ll tell you about another surprise. Because if any of you bought a signed copy of our new book A FINE ROMANCE from our studio for your friends and family during this month of December, you don’t know it, but you’ve already given a gift to some very 
special people. Oh yes! Seven dollars from each purchase through our studio for the entire month of December will be going to Casa Pacifica, an organization in California that “Builds Foundations of Hope” for abused and neglected children. ♥
So I got lambs and new BP People and I got to go out and meet so many of you, and you got dishes and candy, and lots more I hope, and we all made a little bit of a difference for children and families, because without you there would be no FINE ROMANCE. ♥ High five, Girlfriends. Thank you also for the wonderful reviews on Amazon, I know it’s you. We are still number one in England Travel Guides! Thank you so much! We make a little difference in our own little kindred spirit world. What goes around comes around.♥
And now it’s time . . . I can smell it from here . . .
I put a little something in the oven for lunch . . . and it’s ready!
A big delicious, salted buttered sweet potato all caramelized and ready to go. Oh yes. Perfect for this cold day. Off I go now. Don’t forget to leave your comment Girls. Good luck, I hope you are having just the very best time! ♥
Merry Christmas, Susan!! Cheers!
Mmm, mmm, MMM! I’m tastin’ that almond brittle’s buttery crunch already! Maybe if I imagine long and hard enough and squint my eyes shut and wish on a star, the tea set and oodles of brittle will be mine!!! YAY! And if not, that’s OK too, ‘cuz that means some other wonderful SB Blog girlfriend will be lucky and happy.
Thank you, sweet, amazing, darling, one-of-a-kind Susan!
Oh my goodness!!! What an amazing giveaway – Thank you so much, Susan! I loved reading this whole post.. It really got me into a cheery mood.
Can I just say that I adore Titcombs’ Bookshop idea to dress up their shop as a gingerbread house 🙂 What a clever idea to use paper plates and plastic tablecloths! And those red cardinals outside your window? The snow backdrop makes looking out your window as pretty as a postcard.
If I win, I will give the tea set to my wonderful Mom. She will love it, especially since it’s made in England! I love that they included a vintage sugar spoon!!!
You won’t believe this… I just made some English toffee using a recipe from a childhood friend (first time making candy)! While it was cooling in my kitchen I decided to catch up on reading your blog. I love the china set and I too am a collector of dishes. Thanks for a wonderful post.
Do I dare to believe you would post it to New Zealand if I was the lucky girl??? It’s GORGEOUS!Have a very Merry Christmas Susan!!
Any where in this world that mail can go, because we are all in this together. xo
Reading your posts always fills me with joy! The tea set is so beautiful! My mother in law gave me a china serving bowl and little matching compote dishes trimmed in that same wonderful shade of jade green. She found it in an antique store in Summerland and I just love it. How nice of you to donate part of the proceeds from “A Fine Romance” to Casa Pacifica! I love the book and bought two, one for me and one to give to a friend for Christmas. I think everything you post is so romantic, truly lovely, and beautiful!
Merry, Merry Christmas to you and your dear Joe!
What a great post! Your Christmas preparations seem so classic and perfect. I have tried the almond brittle before and it is so good! Just reading about everthing made me wish I was there. Merry Christmas to you and the family and best wishes for a blessed 2014.
Oh my….I have been sitting and RESTING and sipping tea, all the while reading post after post. My time to catch up ( smell the roses), and then I see this delightful post. You just make my heart happy. What a GIFT you are to all of us girlfriends.
So my fingers are crossed, and hoping to win. Just so you know, I am on Weight Watchers, but don’t tell them that I intend to eat ALL of the chocolate if I win. Of course I will share with Oma…who is waving a 91 year old wave to her favorite Susan and Joe. Merry Merry. XXXX
Dear One,
Because that’s how I think of you. I somehow feel connected to you and maybe it’s because I live in Cambria and worked at the Hearts Ease shop for many years. The tea set is lovely, a ready-made heirloom that would be a pure pleasure to own. As for the brittle? what’s not to love. Thank you Susan for many joyful hours you have given me AND my sweet husband who absolutely loved your posts from England. Happy Winter stay warm.
when I read your writings I’m following along, often smiling-remembering similar times-places. I love how you find things in the shops that you enjoy collecting, my mom collects silhouettes. My dad lamps (or things he can make into lamps) and I love Christmas, we were all shopping in a neat antique mall in Oviedo, Florida in November my parents finding their favorites and I came across a pair of clear glass nut cracker candle sticks-no markings but beautiful :). Thank you for offering your fans a chance to enjoy what you love-Merry Christmas, Jennifer
Merry Christmas Susan! How kind of you to give a gift to one of us girlfriends.
Love the way you celebrate this and every season… especially when you connect it to merry old England .. where my tree rooted itself so long ago. The green in the tea set is so wonderful.. I Hope you Have a Joyful Holiday..LF
Dear Susan,
Now I know what the song writer meant: You make me smile with my heart!
You always brighten my day. I love England as you do and I would love to drink my tea from that beautiful little tea set. Fingers crossed!
Wishing you, Joe and all your kitties a very Merry Christmas.
Susan, Love your flock of lambs, they made me giggle. You have shared so much, I feel like I have already won. A very dear friend found your Christmas book at a second hand store and gave it to me for Christmas (early) I am thrilled!!! All the presents that I’m giving are cookies I’ve made from your book. Thank you so much for writing.
You put the Sparkle in Christmas
The almond brittle looks so good and I just made peanut so now I will try this. I also purchased one of your calenders and I love it. Already have all or most of my stuff written in it for the new year. Thanks for the great blog, I love when I get one from you.
It’s absolutely lovely to have you home again, too! We missed you being at home as much as you missed being there! And thank you for the wonderful new blogs. They are delightful! Merry, Merry Christmas to you!
My girls and I will be baking cookies with the grandkids and making caramel corn this weekend we will have to add your brittle to the list it looks wonderful. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year
Karen in CA
Hi Susan – that Tea set is just so beautiful! It was great to see you when you were here in Pasadena, and to meet Joe – from having read all your books and blog posts we all feel like we know him already. I was one of the very last in line (lucky to actually get a seat in the last row) so a few of us took the time to talk with him and have him sign our books!
Thank you, Susan. I so much enjoy your writing. It really brightens any day! Debbie
Merry Holidays!
I spent the day in line at the post office, mailing “A Fine Romance” to my sisters and sister-in-law all over the country. I loved adding the personal note, explaining that I was able to take Mother on the trip with me. We had such a grand time. And each time you were having tea, we made a pot and joined you. I know we would make good use of a new tea set. At 97, Mother still loves to have people in for a spot of tea, a cookie and a good chat.
I just read an article about be Present instead of Perfect for the holidays, and taking it slow, enjoying each moment is the way to go. (Otherwise the books would have been wrapped and mailed weeks ago.)
Thank you for your continued friendship and best wishes to you, Joe and all your family and friends for a safe and happy Christmas.
Susan, you are so generous to give away that wonderful English tea set. And of course, I am in love with Downton Abbey too.
I wish you the Merriest Christmas and a wonderful 2014!!
Hi Susan-
As a fellow Old-dish-lover my heart went pitter pat at the sight of that glorious tea set. And then to hear that it’s for a give-away . . . ? well, that just about floored me! It is just so beautiful- you certainly have a good eye, but that’s no surprise.
I’m glad you are savoring being home again so much . . . and I know how you feel! After being very sick for two months and eventually having to spend all of Nov. living with my mom so I could be essentially ‘nursed back to health’, I am finally home again and the relief and gratitude I feel can’t be expressed. Hallelujah, my own bed again! My own kitties! My sons and husband to boss around again! 😉
And to be home in time for Christmas, right?! Is there anything better? I’ve been too weak to do much decorating and I can’t bake or even eat baked goods (the worst part!) but because my expectations are low and I’m taking it slow and simple I’m finding that I’m enjoying the season all the more. No stress at all- it’s beautiful! Just gratitude to be home again and with my family.
I hope you and Joe and Jack and Girl all have a very merry and peaceful Christmas . . . and also that you will have the gift of time afterwards to rest and settle quietly into the new year so that you can be filled to the fullest for all that’s to come!
Warm winter wishes to you, Susan. I was so lucky to get to meet you and Joe on your long trek home from California and it was a dream come true for me. I thought I would never get to meet you since I am seldom on either coast, but here you were, smack dab in the middle of the country. I am glad you made it home to your kitties. I love the tea set and I am a “dish person” too. It is quite lovely especially with the mixed cups. What a wonderful gift and how sweet of you to share it. Perhaps I will make some of that peanut brittle. It looks so wonderful.
Susan,
Saw Downton Abbey for the first time last week on one of our PBS stations. (Where have I been – right?) I think it could be addicting. We, too just brought our tree in last night so plan to get it decorated this week. Finished my Christmas cards last night. Now that’s a good feeling! Your Almond Brittle looks great! Will have to try making some. Got together with my daughter several weeks ago and made some Christmas treats including turtles, bark, and molded chocolate to have at our family Christmas and to give away as gifts. Fun! My 3yr. old granddaughter helped too – she “smashed” the nuts. Must agree with you about the cardinals – such a beautiful bird! Filled my feeder again today. Love watching them. Wow! What a beautiful tea set! You are always thinking of us. So glad to hear you are settled back in and getting back in the norm.
Jan
Hi Susan,
Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Jack and Girl !
So glad you are nestled back in your Martha’s Vineyard home. My husband and I travel the East Coast this past summer for our 30th anniversary and we spent 3 nights on Martha’s Vineyard. It was our favorite place of all. After being there, I understand your blogs about MV so much better. It was incredible !
You are such an encouragement and joy in so many ways. I love your zest for life and all the little touches that you add to make the ordinary so lovely.
I made your Star Croutons as Christmas gifts this year and they are a hit. The Almond Brittle sounds great. Ever since my husband and I went to England 2 years ago, I have been enjoying tea even more. The wonderful tea set would be so fun for anyone to have. But I will admit that I do wish that it will be me who receives it :0) I have a green dining room that the tea set would look terrific in.
Here’s hoping !!!!! Joy from Modesto, CA
I also made a sweet potato for dinner! 🙂
Oh, what fun travels you have had, many memories made and sweet little treasures
you’ve found. And…What a fun surprise-the tea set! Thank you for a sweet opportunity. Blessings!
I’ve been a fan for a couple of years now, ever since I stumbled upon one if your beautiful calenders in world market. I loved the fonts,the whimsical and playful way the illustrations and words come together. I’m a Midwest girl from Chicago,living in California for 8 years now. There’s something about your calendars and blog that take me back to home…my childhood & upbringing and wholesome values. Thanks for sharing your passions & talent. I appreciate it very much. The tea set is so pretty! It would be my first one 🙂 fingers crossed! Happy holidays to you and yours.
Susan, You got me at the statues…..Anything Peter Rabbit gets my attention and especially at this time of the year…my favorite is the Rabbits Christmas (ho ho ho) Then the Tea Set …”.it is so you”, I said….Then the Almond Brittle made my mouth water…..But the Sweet Potato did it….I had to make dinner before I could even make a comment….my stomach was a growling (Oh excuse me) How nice of you…always thinking of us…hhhmmmm. Here in California we do not see a White Christmas or the Red Cardinals so beautiful…But we do get some awesome Sunrises and Sunsets….My saying “I sing with the Sunrise and I dance with the Sunset” Oh we are all so blessed…..Merry Christmas to all, Love from the Soap Box Lady Susan P
Truly the dishes are my favorite color combinations…and with my Real Housewives of Ojai girlfriends (just a bunch of old PTA Mom’s) I host a spring tea party, would be perfect addition. But whoever they go to they will be cherished. I remember my Nana making the candy like this! <3
Beautiful tea set & a great giveaway! You are sooo thoughtful! Merry Christmas Susan & Joe. God bless you both!!! Donna (Idaho)
What a lovely tea set! You’re such a warm and generous person. 🙂
My daughter collects lambs too, only hers are real! We’re up to 5 right now and one of her ewes is expecting babies.
Hi Susan,
Love, Love your new china tea set. And your toffee looks a-maz-ing!
Read (again!) your Christmas book, and my favorite story of you trying to sneak out of your grandma’s bed! Love it even more every time I read it.
Merry, Merry Christmas! I will be in Seal Beach, and I hope to see your Mom for a visit!
Hugs,
Sharon
Oh my goodness! Such a beautiful tea set and such generosity! It will be fun to see who wins. Love your blog post — always so nice and newsy just like we’ve all known you all our lives. In this day and age of so much bad news every time we open a newspaper, it is a breath of fresh air to know there are still so many good hearts in the world, and all participating on your blog! And I have to be honest, soooo jealous of your beautiful cardinals! We don’t have those beautiful birds in Oregon, but we do have plenty of gray days! A very Happy Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties!
Your blog is a fun place for me, full of inspiration and creativity. I also love painting but never mastered the art of water color. I admire those who have, and your work is beautiful and cheerful. Your calendars have hung in my kitchen for over 10 years and I look forward to each new edition. My husband took me to England for two weeks in 2011 for our anniversary. I fell in love with tea cups and began collecting vintage tea cups and china sets when I find a good deal. I would love to add this beautiful green china to my collection!
Merry Christmas Susan!
Donna in California
Hello,
Thanks for the Christmas post. I am also very busy decorating my home for Christmas and it is important to relax a little and remember what Christmas is all about.
That tea set is absolutely lovely and I have never actually gotten one yet, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed. Your almond brittle also looks delicious. I am glad to have the recipe even if I don’t win it.
Thanks,
Elmina
Susan, you bring people together in such a lovely way! I invited my Pasadena girlfriend to meet me at Vroman’s for your book-signing, as she was not familiar with your books and blog and I thought she would enjoy it. Needless to say, you have a new fan! Alas, I didn’t have time to get my book signed at Vroman’s, so I drove up to Remnants of the Past, where I met, and chatted with, two charming sisters while waiting in line; we’ve since been in touch and plan to meet again! Serendipity! Lastly, I sent my daughter (who lives in Albuquerque) to get another Fine Romance… for an Oregonian friend of mine who, of course, loved her present and gushed about the book. It’s so heart-warming to make these connections through your wonderful work! Thank you, Susan, your the best, bringing joy to my life!
Susan, I think the tea set is beautiful. I have your beautiful tin of tea which would go so nicely with it. Sending hugs to Jack and Girl Kitty. I always enjoy hearing about them. Thank you so much for your blog. It always lifts my spirits.
I missed you in Oklahoma…I too am a lambie lover, and always love a cup of tea. I saw a felt Christmas set recently, manger, sheep and lambs…it was titled, “A Baaaaaaa-by is Born!”…we lamb lovers think that is especially delightful. I put my lambs on an antique mirror, with a tiny manger mid-flock. The green is such a great color edging the tea set and the old spoon just perfect. Your generosity blesses all of us through your drawings and special touches. Thank you and Happy Christmas to you and yours.
Thank you for your beautiful blog. It’s like visiting a very dear friend. Would love to win the tea set and I can’t wait to taste the chocolate covered almond brittle.
Love the lambs! Your house looks cozy and warm. The cardinals are so beautiful!
Everyone seems to be a little behind with things this year.
Having a broken wrist really changed things this year for me, but I managed to decorate and write out cards with one hand. I’m trying to make the best of things and not let it get me down too much. Your blog always makes me smile, thank you for that. Enjoy the holidays, so happy you are home.
Merry Christmas.
Loved your blog Susan….such a nice read before my heads hits the pillow.
Would be wonderful to win your pretty dishes 🙂 so lovely! ~ a good find!
……….will be dreaming of them!
Beautiful china!!! Love the sheep too! Thanks for the opportunity!
Merry Christmas!!!
Dear Susan,
So glad you are home too and back to all the things you love to care for, display and share with those who so enjoy your blog and books. I ordered A Fine Romance the moment it was offered and savored every hand written line, illustration and photo. The way you draw in all the kindred spirits that enjoy your work is inspiring-thank you for your most kind generosity.
Your gifts this time are wonderful. That you would pick out, tenderly wash and then give away such lovely china is a mark of your character. It is the kind of thing most would only do for a family member or close friend. Bless you!
You are the perfect Christmas elf…taking delight in giving such lovely gifts. I’m mostly without words to even express my amazement at such splendid generosity. Where your love & joy of Christmas reaches out to so many. But Susan, you make everyday a Christmas day with your blog entries. Thank you for such a generous giveaway. Merry Christmas…..the merriest of all Christmases.
That almond brittle sounds wonderful! My mom has been making peanut brittle every December for as long as I can remember (a little rhyme) but at 81 she’s ready to turn in her pans. Maybe I can start a new tradition with almond brittle!
The color on the china just sends me. So sweet of you to do a giveaway!
Oh my Gosh! I love the tea set! I kept going back to look at how lovely the teapot, cups, and the plates looked. Then! I couldn’t believe my eyes when you announced that you were given it to one of us! Susan, you truly have the best heart and show us with every post you write! How generous you are.
Thanks for your inspiration, beautiful food, photographs, and loving words.
That sweet potato just sent me over the edge!! Now I have to go to the kitchen and nibble! I was trying to be good! Made it through the brittle recipe and pictures, then that beautiful sweet potato showed up!
Love the beautiful cardinals, and that tea set is gorgeous!!! Merry Christmas everyone!!
I literally gasped out loud when you said you were giving away that lovely tea set. Wow!!! What a kind and generous thing to do!
Who can resist beautiful tea sets?? Not I!! The treasures you have brought back with you from your travels are sweet…..lambs, BP figurines…..can’t get much sweeter! My treasure that I got from meeting you in Wichita, Kansas at Watermark Books is also sweet….A Fine Romance signed by you!! Truly one of the best days of my life! Thank you for the joy you bring to my life!!
Love, Love, Love your blogs! How cozy you paint winter and the Christmas season!
The English tea set is so charming…..just waiting to be filled with a lovely Earl Grey! Glad that you are back at home and enjoying nesting!
Oh how fun to see your shopping spoils!!! I love everything you got especially the BP figurines. I make a butter brittle like yours only no nuts in the brittle but chopped and scattered on the hot chocolate–makes for a very pretty brittle! Also easier on the teeth!!
Sometimes less is more in decorating for holdays……I did less this year and enjoying it more. I had fun making a large putz house and decorating and lighting it!
It is still very cold here in Idaho plus we have an inversion so driving is dangerous. THanks for always thinking of us and Merry Christmas to you, Joe and the cats!! Linda from Idaho
What a sweetie you are for giving away a tea set from your travels. I so enjoyed “coming along” on your trip. No wonder your book is so well loved and successful; you bring the sights, sounds, tastes and smells to life in its pages as well as in each of your posts here. I am glad you found a few treasures along the way; lots of lambs and a cute Samuel Whiskers (though I still remember him less fondly for making a roly poly pudding with a cat–naughty boy!). Have a very cozy and Merry Christmas!
I’m glad to hear you’re staying cozy and warm! Let it snow!!
Hi Susan, Just love reading each e-mail. I would love the chance to win the tea set, it is just beautiful. The almond brittle looks delicious. Thank you for the chance to win, and hope you continue to have a great Christmas season.
Yes please. Enter me in the china tea set give away. Beautiful set. Such a wonderful friend to find this while traveling and then carefully carry it around for months to give it away. Not sure how you found a space to tuck it away with all you had in the van. So glad there was a safe place for it. As always I really enjoyed your post today. A treat especially enjoyed.
I so look forward to your posts and SURPRISE! A treat for us this time 🙂 Merry Christmas Susan to you and Joe and the kitties from me and my Eric and our kitties.
I love, love, love that tea set! Perfect colors and perfect style! My husband would devour that brittle! I hope you pick me Vanna! Merry Christmas!
Another beautiful post! You have such great taste! I love dishes too, and this tea set is irresistible. I didn’t see the giveaway coming at all, it was a total surprise-you’re such a hoot. Thanks!
Hello Susan , the tea set looks beautiful and the almond brittle very yummy!
You are so generous! Have a wonderful Christmas with Joe and the Kitties!
Lucia from San Mateo, CA
Reading your lovely thoughts, looking at the cute and beautiful acquisitions and I thought, “oh, she’ll have fun with the tea set,” so by the time I got to the part that you were giving it to one of us…my eyes started leaking! Thank you especially for sharing your profit with those much needier than us. You and Joe are two in a million!
Dear Susan it is sooooo good to have you home. I just love seeing all the pictures from your kitchen window. Have a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year.
Susan B. So Cal
This is the first comment I have ever left on your blog. I feel that I have found a kindred spirit after reading your essays. I always loved Gladys Taber and read her books over and over. Now I have all of your books and can read them and make the recipes. Thank you so much for brightening up my day. You have such good taste in tea sets too.
Hi Susan,
I’ve got your book! Yes! Finally! I’m so glad your book arrived in the Netherlands to! Loving it, I’ve been reading it every night before I go to bed. And wow, I’d love to win that tea set,so Vanna pick me! Your blog again is beautiful, gets me really in the Christmasmood! Today I’m going to help at school making kerstbakjes( Christmas boxes with green pine branches and a candle)
in my sons class he’s four years old, and tonight they’re having a Christmas celebration at school and then…Christmas vacation.
Wishing you and Joe a very merry cosy Christmas and a happy new year!
Lots of love from Holland.
xoxox Willemien
Oh good Willemien, it made it! xoxo Your celebration at school must be adorable. Have fun!
I have only recently discovered your blog and enjoy it so much! You inspire me every time I stop by. I would love to be entered in this drawing. The tea set is lovely, and I’m going to have to make some of the brittle. It looks wonderful.
You must be so thrilled to finally be home after your exciting book tour. What a wonderful year you have had!
I just got home from an 11-day hospital stay after emergency surgery. Winning such a delightful personal gift from you would be an amazing special treat!
Like you, I’m getting ready for Christmas with tiny little steps each day. By necessity, I need to accept that the usual Christmas extravaganza I normally plan must be scaled back quite a bit this year, but I’m thankful to be home, and am blessed with a sweet hubby and a loving family, and that’s what really counts, isn’t it?
May your 2014 be happy, healthy, and peaceful!
That Gingerbread house is fabulous! 🙂 – and the tea set is beautiful.
Happy Christmas!
I love your posts Susan. Each and every one is read not once or twice, but often and then I revisit them from time to time. They are like a warm visit with a good friend. That is why I love your books so much, and most especially this last one. Even my husband fell in love with it. I miss snow over here in the UK. It is such a rare treat and in the 13 + years I have lived here I have never had a White Christmas once. Sigh . . . that would be my Christmas wish this year and all years. Maybe one year I will actually get it! Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Jack and Miss Kitty. xxoo
I loved meeting you, buying the book and calendars for gifts. I would cherish the china and baked goods too. Another special gift from you to me!
What a sweet Christmas-y post. I love this time of year. I’ve made your almond brittle in the past. It’s extremely good. Unfortunately, my copy of VS vanished some years ago. But I believe I’ve found a used copy that I plan to order when I finish here. The tea set is perfectly lovely and your lambs your lambs your lambs! They are so fetching… as are your new BP figurines. Thank you for sharing.
What a lovely, generous give away. I’d love to be the recipient of such a lovely tea set. Even if I don’t win, it’s great to know that one of the girlfriends will soon be enjoying it.It’s the sharing that’s the best part of Christmas, now isn’t it?
Oh that Gingerbread House Bookstore! I want to pop my head in the window and say, “Have a treat for me?” It’s so very, very sweet.
Dear, dear Susan…count me in on the drawing. What a beautiful tea set. I had the most delicious tea yesterday when I discovered the most darling Tea Room…White Christmas…just a hint of Vanilla and Almond…yum! Merry Christmas to you, Joe and Kitties…Cardinals, always amazing to see them “in person” on your blog. I made a new Christmas Tree this year, with Cardinals and other birds…in my spare bedroom. Thank you, Susan…you always make me happy. Joan M.
I just spent the day making my Christmas candies, but now I’ll just have to make that almond brittle-it looks so easy! Let’s just hope it is. As always I enjoy reading your posts; makes you make the most of every day-Thanks!!
What fun treasures you found, Susan! I think your new lambs are just darling! The tea set is gorgeous and that almond brittle is simply delicious!!! Hope you are enjoying getting ready for Christmas!
Thank you, Susan, for reminding me to “take it slow” with Christmas. I’ve been going way too fast and not enjoying any of it (except for my six year old granddaughter’s performance as a mouse in The Nutcracker last week-end). Today I will try to savor all the preparations and take a few rest breaks to read my Christmas books. Thank you for thinking of the girlfriends when you saw that tea set. It is lovely and your flock of lambs is precious.
Merry Christmas to you, Joe and the beautiful kitties.
Oh Susan, what beautiful little BP additions to your family! Thank you for your beauiful blog! I think I need to settle in for some nesting, too, and make some of your luscious brittle. Merry Christmas to all!
Susan…your blog is happy and beautiful. I love that you share your home and garden with your readers. Of course, I am a kitty lover, so your darling kitties just make my day! Thank you for your posts and your beautiful work!
I think I want to be you when I grow up. Or just be a better me today. Either way, you should know that I consider you a friend even if we have never met. I want to send you prayers and good wishes since you give me so much with every story and picture. Bless you and your household. Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year!
Your blog is fun, festive and always brings the right amount of joy and light to our lives. Many thanks for keeping us a part of your world.
I just finished “A Fine Romance” and absolutely loved it as I knew I would! It was a long wait, but worth it, you captured everything so perfectly. We have had the pleasure of traveling in England 3 times and each trip was a memory forever! Your diary brings it all back, beautifully embellished with your Susan Branch style. Love it! By the way, after is started the book, I dug out my Black Dog cookbook, and sure enough, there was your Joe!
P.S. As my collector house would tell you, my husband and I have found many things that could not be left at antique shops or flea markets in places we have traveled. And, I have a weakness for dishes, oh did I just say that…today I purchased an Emma Bridgewater mug, my first, as a Christmas gift to myself, “pansy” my favorite flower!
Pat, thank you for such a nice book review!
What a beautiful tea set–and dishes are my weakness. I already gave my mom A Fine Romance (couldn’t wait for Christmas) and she loved it! She’s getting a box of your stationery and daybook for her January birthday. Glad you’re home!
Welcome home Susan! I know that your trip was wonderful, and everyone so happy to see you along the way, but there IS no place like home! I collect teacups that catch my fancy and have one with that Tuscan mark. I have no idea what it means either! Merry Christmas to you and all of your beloveds, and all the girlfriends too!
Everything is looking so warm and cozy! I’ve been busy being crafty after being inspired by your mini seasonal garlands and some I saw in an antique store. Used pages of an old romance book “Let It Snow” to make Merry Christmas garlands for friends and family. I love the title at the top of each page repeating the message; Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow…
What a lovely tea set! The apple-ley green color is beautiful. I would love the chance to set a proper tea with such a beautiful setting. Count me in, please. 🙂 Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas to you,
What a wonderful gift to one of your fans! I love the tea set….such a beautiful color…and the almond brittle sounds delicious. I always make peanut brittle but this might have to be added to my candy list. Thanks for always thinking of your “girls”. Have a Merry Christmas and blessed NewYear.
Oh,My! I was drooling over the tea set and low and behold you are offering it to a very lucky winner! You are so thoughtful. Sounds like you did alot of exploring of wonderful shops on your trip – what fun but ah, yes, it is always good to be homw! Have a wonderful holiday season – you, Joe and the Kitties too! I’m sure they’ll enjoy the tree – mine always did.
Thank you for being you! Warm Wishes, Cynthia
How sweet of you to think of us as busy as you are! The tea set is lovely and whoever wins it will be blessed . I am looking forward to Downton Abbey as well.
The candy looks sooo good ! On my shopping list.
To you Susan and Joe and all the girlfriends out there have yourselves a Merry lil Christmas!
I hope you and Joe have a wonderful Christmas. It looks like you’ll have a beautiful white one while we’ll be enjoying sunshine and warmth.
My cousin is coming to visit soon, from out of state. She loves drinking tea from a pretty cup. This lovely set would be wonderful to “share” with her in my home. I love the box too — I noticed immediately the words “Mince Pie.” My Grandmother’s was the best and the real-deal…homemade! Warm memories! 🙂 It such a pleasure to read your blog…I feel as though we’re at the kitchen table together…just chatting and sipping tea.
I have made your almond brittle many times. It is delicious, but I must admit I sometimes use semi-sweet chocolate instead of unsweetened. Good either way!
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
I don’t know what I’m doing…trying to keep the sweetness down? Nice try! 🙂
So enjoy reading your post. The BP pieces are adorable! You have great luck in finding the neatest things…The tea set is beautiful. It has a real comfy look to it and one could picture using it with girlfirends , scones, and some chat after we watch the first episode of Downton Abbey.
You are so blessed to have the cardinals at your home. We lived for over 34 years in an area where we had them year round. We had a view of the feeder and were able to watch them..even bring their babies to feed.
Merry Christmas to you and Joe. Enjoy and make some memories.
Good morning, Susan!
Thank you for this joyful, jolly post! It has definitely put me in the Christmas spirit! Winning the tea set & homemade candy would just be icing on the cake 🙂 Wishing you & Joe a blessed Christmas!
Kelly from eastern PA
Reading your blog post this morning and seeing those gorgeous pictures is treat enough for me and I am definitely following your advice Susan to “take it slow and enjoy the season. Thank you for being a part of my preparations for Christmas.
Love from Ann in Thame xx
You truly are a very special lady! I’m so thankful for this world of blogging, internet which enables me to have a friend like you! I’m truly blest. I keep my eye on alert for you in my blog feed. There is always this little rush of excitement, a “YES”, when I see you’ve posted. You never disappoint, you’re such a giving person bless you and Joe, what a man!
The tea set is beyond words, and you as well to want to give it away. So generous. In reading some of the comments one girlfriend mentioned her 90 some year old mother still enjoying having friends in for a “spot” of tea and how she’d love the set. I hope Vanna reads that one and some how she’s rewarded with it. Merry Christmas to you and Joe, enjoy all the domestic bliss associated with this season. My cats, Dusty Girl, and Django said to say hi. They love your blog too!
So lovely to live a Christmas celebration through your blog! Best wishes and luck to the recipient of your generous gift!! Merry Christmas and peace to everyone!
Your blog is wonderful! I really love the 1938 Good Housekeeping cover. I love that time period, especially the clothes. Enjoy your holiday!
I was reading your post and thinking how nice everything looks and totally forgot that there was a give away…What a super nice surprise! (I hope my entry gets picked).. I also wanted to thank you again for you snow pictures~ I miss the seasons in Florida, and it is nice for you to share! Merry Christmas, and Best wishes for a Happy & Healthy New Year!!
Thank you for spreading holiday sanity 🙂
After reading this, I feel as though I’ve been in your kitchen, sipping tea from that lovely set of china – and watching the cardinals at the bird feeders……………..all you said in this posting just seemed to speak to me – I’ve been having a ‘continuing conversation’ with one of my cousins about how bewildered we both are at the over the top, gotta have it decorated, gotta have every gift for the kids, must make this THE most excellent Christmas mentality that we have been seeing around us. And what is the point? You know what? The world isn’t going to end because you didn’t get that special (high priced) doll for the two year old – or that you haven’t decorated every last inch of your house inside and out with lights and greenery – people get a life! Stop and smell the poinsettias – well, I guess they don’t have a fragrance…but you know what I mean.
I absolutely loved the fact that you ‘confessed’ that you didn’t have your tree up and decorated by now – and that it seems you were ‘easily distracted’ by wonderfully interesting things like unwrapping your lamb purchases and just enjoying the birds and the snow or making that delicious candy!
Whenever I get the feeling that its time for a ‘sanity check’ and I want to immerse myself in ‘nice’ – I come to your website and blog – and then I know that you and all the girlfriends are right there, living quiet, cozy lives – and loving it.
Thank you for all you do – have a wonderful Christmas!
No the world won’t end. Plus, think back, when you were a child, it wasn’t quite this crazy, and you were JUST as excited and thrilled. It was good enough. That’s all we need to be, good enough. And happy, and good sleep. And walks in the woods.
Oh – that is something that you could make into a sign –
I’m not the best – I’m good enough!
And with one of your illustrations – it would be perfect – I’d hang something like that in every room! 🙂
It became my motto when writing A FINE ROMANCE. I kept waiting for genius or perfection, and realized that if I did that, there would never be any book, so I asked myself with each page, is it good enough, and that was it!
Looks like the dishes will find a good home, by the number of comments I see. Over 700 and counting!
What really made my heart smile, was the rescue of Samuel Whiskers and Mrs. Tittlemouse from those dusty, musty and dark antique shops. Now they are back out in the sunshine with friends….and most of all they are loved! What a lucky find. And your little flock of sheep! 🙂
But what I noticed for the first time was your fireplace screen. That is simply beautiful and I will forever be on the lookout for one like it.
It’s REALLY getting close to Christmas….aahhhhh! Here it comes, ready or not!
Chris…….from a really warm West Texas
What wonderful treasures you found along your adventure across our beautiful country! Merry Christmas to you Susan! I have been re-reading Christmas from the Heart of the Home, Christmas Joy and Vineyard Seasons, choosing recipes for my family and just having the best time enjoying the beautiful pages. Thank you so much for such magnificent books!