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!
Hi girlfriend a friend of mine in book club told me about you. I have always loved everything Victorian. I immediately ordered A Fine Romance and loved it so much I ordered one for My Bff as we have the same likes. I love your blogs. They add a bright spot to my life. God bless you and I wish you and Joe a blessed Christmas.o
Merry Christmas, Susan! I love reading your blog–so cozy and wonderful with your heartwarming quotes and pretty illustrations. Please enter my name in your drawing for the lovely dishes and delicious brittle. Have a fun holiday season! Warmest wishes, Nancy
I loved every second of this – every photo, every word. Lovely. Thank you.
Thank you Susan for the wonderful post when I can’t sleep at 4am! I feel so warm and relaxed that sleep might come again. The china is beautiful and I think I might need a lamb collection started in 2014 🙂
Oh Susan! What could be more precious than a gift from Susan Branch! This blog is by far my favorite! Love everything about it! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the tea set. But most of LOVE you! Thank you and have a blessed Christmas! Asha ox
Good Morning from a bit chilly Northern California! Well I love that you have snow and that you are taking your time with getting ready for Christmas! It’s the only way to really hold on to the special moments the day can bring. I enjoyed all your pictures but the tea set in soap was wonderful. A bit like getting ” spiffy” for someone special! The book is a treasure and I have enjoyed reading it with eight friends across the country! Merry Christmas Susan and thank you for sharing your adventures with us! Kathy
Susan you make my day. I start my day reading your wonderful blog and get uplifted right away. Thank you for what you do! Arlene Koktavy
Just re-reading your wonderful post…love every bit of it…felt like I was in your kitchen looking out the window at the birdfeeders..having a cup of tea while the was cooling…such simple sweet pleasures…..you and yours are truly dear…..the tea set oh so lovely…..hugs to u each one….girl, jack and your Joe..blessed Christmas …evangeline
noticed I left out “brittle” when I posted earlier….so in case it wasn’t clear….I enjoy so much having “tea” with you in your cozy warm..kitchen… Happy Thursday… evangeline
Oh such a lovely post! What a gorgeous tea set find!!!! I’m quite sure that Tuscan is on the bottom of one if not more of my tea sets (which were found in Scotland years ago). I wonder who brought it to this country and used it there in the “very un-England-like midwest”!!! I found your 2014 small calendars on sale at the grocery store yesterday and had to snatch up two — one for me and one for my mom. I’ve just finished my UK cards last night and hope that they will get there before Christmas! Now to go and finish the rest!!! Have a wonderful Christmas!!!
Such a lovely posting today–fun to see the new lambs you’ve added to the collection–and lucky you to find more BP figures(they must have called to you as you entered the shop) what fun you’ve been having as you open treasures from your cross-country trip. It’s so generous of you to share the tea set with your girlfriends–please whisper to Vanna that green is MY COLOR 😉
I’m glad you are taking time to savor the season and settle back in slowly. No pressure now, but watch out for those little bits of almond brittle–they love waistlines, and hang around for some time (grin)
Thank you Susan for putting me in the holiday spirit. Wishing you a very merry christmas! Raises teacup …cheers! Clink!
Susan, thank you for the chance to win that beautiful tea set. Can just imagine watching Downton Abbey and sipping tea from one of those charming cups. And thank you for inviting us into your charmed life. Merry Christmas!
Oh Susan! What a lovely tea set! I am so enjoying your book now, and long to retrace your travels. I am passing along your book to my 90-year-old English mother. She will LOVE it! Thank you for brightening our lives.
I needed help getting in the Christmas spirit and this post did it! Thank you and also thank you for entering me in the contest for the BEAUTIFUL dishes! Merry Christmas!!
Glad you are safely home with your kitties and Beatrix Potter friends and the wonderful red Cardinals outside in your garden( we dont have them here but I so love them)
Have a wonderful Christmas together.
YOur posts always ignites something inside of me…….
it’s like coming home : )
Susan,
I am loving reading A Fine Romance and dreaming of taking my own trip to England one day. Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for 2014! Sylvia :}
Love, love, love your blog! At the end of my working day (at work and the 2nd shift at home), sometimes I sit down with a cup of tea at my computer and have a cup of tea reading “Willard”. It makes me feel like I am listening to how your day went. Like I am in your kitchen, cooking with you. Smells yummy!
Thank you for your writing, and your wit. Best way I can describe how I feel when I read your blog is HAPPY! You put a smile on my face.
Merry , Merry Christmas, dear Susan :).
Girlfriends Forever!
Love, love, love your blog! At the end of my working day (at work and the 2nd shift at home), sometimes I sit down with a cup of tea at my computer and have a cup of tea reading “Willard”. It makes me feel like I am listening to how your day went. Like I am in your kitchen, cooking with you. Smells yummy!
Thank you for your writing, and your wit. Best way I can describe how I feel when I read your blog is HAPPY! You put a smile on my face.
Merry , Merry Christmas, dear Susan 🙂 .
Oh Susan, thank you so much for telling us about our donations to Casa Pacifica. What a wonderful idea. We always pick a charity at Christmas time. This year it was for an orphanage in Guatemala that our church is helping. I love bringing a message of hope to those who need it.
It’s the entire point of Christmas isn’t it. Warms your heart to choose something really special and delicious to put in the food bank at the supermarket.
Good Morning Susan!!
Woo Hoo! What a wonderful time of year! I absolutely adore Christmastime!
I have been decorating and decorating between writing cards, wrapping gifts and getting the menu ready (planning on making your Onion Pudding for our family gathering which is on Saturday 21st)! YIKES! I love, love, love the wonderful give away…the dishes are gorgeous and so very British!! Plus the wonderful home- made goodie you have included to make everything even more special! YOU are such a wonderful, giving person. Making the contribution from the sales of “Fine Romance” to your chosen charity is such a wonderful offering! Your book has given so many people the chance to really visit England from their armchairs in a way no other book ever has! Now you will be giving it more meaning by giving children the chance of hope and support they need for better lives. I sent the book to my cousin in England for her birthday (that you signed for me at the book signing in Wilmington OH at Books N More), which by the way she loved (of course!) and I had sent her your 2013 calendar last year at Christmas and she always tells me how she has not looked ahead at the months so it is something to look forward to when she turns the page over at the beginning of a new month, she learned something new too, that we named our moons! They do not do that in England, I told her that it is a native American heritage tradition that comes from the States. She is getting your 2014 calendar for this Christmas too! So she has another whole year to look forward to!
I am so glad that you and Joe are safely home from your travels and are enjoying “nesting” and like you said, “Counting your Blessings!” Which is something we should all do everyday!
I am looking forward to the giveaway, maybe I will be lucky!! Have a wonderful day!!
Warmest regards,
Candice
Oh what a delight it would be to have a tea party with this lovely set! Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack.
Hi, I am new to your blog. The way I found it is through your website that was printed on a magnetic Christmas list I have had for years. It only has a couple of pages left on it and I no longer use it for my Christmas shopping list as it is so pretty and I want to save it. I still hang it on my fridge every year..I have been looking for a new one and in the process, been led to your blog. My three daughters and I adore tea parties. In fact my oldest, who was married last fall, requested a tea party bridal shower, which was lovely. It is nice that we can share the simple things in life, especially in this day and age. Thank you. I look forward to reading more from you! Merry Christmas!
Oh how fun, a tea party bridal shower. Perfect. There are so many perfect times for tea parties. Winter, for example. Mother’s Day. Spring. So fun to decorate for them and make all those little taste treats!
Gosh, Susan, you always plan the sweetest and loveliest of surprises for all of us Girlfriends! I love that some of the proceeds from the book are going to help children in need too! That is the best ever gift for me! It is heartbreaking to know that children in our communities have such dire needs everyday. (My Mr. Bump just sat down in FRONT of my computer and is purring away. Maybe he is sending Jack a Florida hello! I can’t SEE WHAT I AM TYPING!!) The candy recipe looks to die for and I am thinking I might need to make some myself in the next few days for gifting.
You mentioned cardinals and their color and I wanted to share that they are quite red and beautiful here in Florida this time of year too. We have many feeding at our various feeders in the backyard and it is always a cheerful moment to look out and see them. I have to admit, however, that your cardinals against the cold snowy backdrop are the quintessential Christmas scene. Stunningly beautiful!!
Enjoy your Christmas nesting, unpacking and preparations for Santa’s arrival next week! I think it will be easy to do with some of that awesome almond brittle to snack on in between hanging lights on the tree and decorations!
Merry Christmas Susan, Joe, Jack and Girl Kitty…love you all.
It never ceases to amaze me just how many of us kindred spirits there are “out there!” What is it about dinnerware and silverware that drives us to collect more than we will ever “need”?! I suppose — for me, anyway — it’s the idealized dream of having my scattered family (six siblings, coast to coast), sitting around the table, celebrating all of life’s treasured holidays and milestones, and even the impromptu ones! I have both light blue and pink settings of Burleigh’s Asiatic Pheasant, Portmeirion’s Holly and Ivy Christmas dishes (both Stoke-on-Trent companies!), lovely tea things from Susan Branch (of course!) and oh-so-lovely-to-look-at Laura Ashley china in the rare “Starlight” pattern sitting on my hutch as I write, waiting for a holiday tea with friends! And that doesn’t even include my mother’s 63 year old Belleek tea set she received as a wedding gift, or her sterling silver Damask Rose service for 8 — one of us always had to be content with the “plain” cutlery when all nine of us were together at the dinner table! The lovely soft patina of even silverplate had me replacing my dingy, everyday stainless cutlery recently with the sweetest 1948 pattern I found e-bay! Is it too weird that I get such pleasure from simply stirring my tea with one of those lovely old spoons?! To have found you, Susan, and so many like-minded HOMEmakers here on your blog makes me believe there is hope for us all. Thank you for sharing your art and recipes and stories and travels and, most especially, the magic of Christmas with us all!
Hi Susan, I have been a fan for a long time. Your adorable illustrations warm my heart! You are so generous with your giveaway! Merry Christmas to you.
I’d feel so blessed to have your special English tea set. How lovely! Thank you for thinking of your friends. The brittle looks pretty awesome, as well…Have a Merry Christmas–you and yours!
I so enjoy your blog, Susan. You are a girl after my own heart; I feel that we have so much in common. Nothing makes me happier than feeling COZY and loved, and I so enjoy making others feel happy, loved, and special with my gift of hospitality within my home. I would love to have an opportunity to enjoy your lovely tea set, and goodies. What a selfless and kind gesture! Thank you so much and Merry Christmas to you and yours!!!!!!!! God bless you!
I am one of your quiet friends- I have only written a comment once or twice, but read your blog every time and I have most of your books. I live in Connecticut and want you to know how empty it felt in New England while you and Joe were away! I was worried about you both with all the driving you did and how far away you went… I too was born in California (San Fran) and love seeing your posts about the area. The tea set is very lovely and looks to be from maybe the 1950’s? Also, I love the box you put the almond brittle in- is it covered in wrapping paper, and if so where did you get the paper? I have to have some!! It looks like you drew/painted the designs. God Bless you, Joe & your beautiful kitties this Christmas and always! Love you!
LOL Elaine. Well we have filled it right back up!!! The box was made that way, it came from Emma Bridgewater — pretty cute!
Thank you for always writing such generous blog posts, filled with wonderful words, photos, recipes and art! The tea set is exquisite. As a potter for over 40 years, I am so moved by the craftsmanship and love that went into the making of it. I am turning 60 on Christmas Day and looking forward to many more years of making pots and drinking tea! Merry Christmas to all!
Best
Holly Heaslip
Merry Christmas Holly, and Happy Birthday to YOU!
Living here in CA, we have red camellias in the winter & it’s only fair that you get red cardinals! So beautiful with the snowy background! Love this blog with all the Musica, pictures, everything – thank you dear! And, your donation to Casa Pacifica is wonderful! Please toss my name into Vanna’s Santa hat for a chance to win the gorgeous tea set & the candy! Tons more – thanks! xoxo P.S. Why didn’t I think of wrapping my cottage in brown plastic tablecloths for a magical gingerbread house? So clever!!!
The almond brittle looks so yummy! I am thinking of trying to make it with sunflower seeds as my daughter Charlotte is allergic to peanuts and tree nuts. I could also use pumpkin seeds…a project for later today! Thank you, Susan, for the inspiration!
You can make it without the nuts too Kristy, it’s good!
I’m so jealous of your beautiful winter wonderland! It’s not cold OR white here in Texas. I’ll just live vicariously through your photos! The dishes are beautiful, what a sweet gift to give away!!
I love this post so much! And reading the other girlfriends comments just warms my heart as well. Glad to know I’m not the only one who “rescues” treasures from dusty antique stores! Thank you, Susan, and have a blessed Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Susan! Love the post, as always…makes this happy season even that much more homey, warm and wonderful! I jumped in my seat when I saw the Emma Bridgewater little box….LOVE anything and everything by her (and Matthew Rice). And the tea set is lovely as well. Thank you for your kindnesses to all us girlfriends!
Welcome Home, Susan! It was a pleasure meeting you in Hudson OH on your book tour, and look forward to the FOGT Reunion in June! Have a Merry Merry Christmas with Joe and the kitties!
…..’so happy you both are back home..with your loved ones, in time for Christmas..your post is so thoughtful.. you thought of everything.. from a blazing fire to Christmas carols and sweet smells coming from the “heart of the home”.. the tea set and candy you are sharing is also such a thoughtful and generous gift !… ‘hope you and Joe and well, everyone has a blessed and joyful Christmas !!.. with love, as always…p.s. ‘looked like the tea set was having a bubble bath…so cute …
Oooooo!
There’s nothing like a S.B. post to put you in the spirit!
At the moment I’m waning in the Christmas spirit department.
Love that ur taking things slooooow and nesting.
Have a merry pre-Christmas week!
Belen
Have a bubble bath, with your book and a big bottle of ice cold water. You will cheer right up! Be good to yourself, it’s your Christmas too. xoxo
Dear Friend,
What a thoughtful and lovely Christmas surprise! Your talent for sharing is endless and your choice for your holiday gift is perfect! As a personal chef, I know that those little extra touches add style and grace at a bit of love to this hectic season. Thank you for sharing your joy for life with all of us and my your darling family have a cozy and wonderful Christmas this year! Love to you!
P.S. The BP finds are real treasures! I am so glad they found a good home.
Posted a comment yesterday to tell you that you are the bestest girlfriend in the whole wide world, and to thank you for all that you do for us, and to say, MERRY CHRISTMAS! But I don’t know if the comment was received, so please excuse this if I just missed where it was posted.
Beautiful tea set – I have Downton Abbey Season 4 already on order! Thanks so much for sharing your life with us – what a blessing you are in my life! Merry Christmas.
Those dishes are beautiful!! And Almond Bark, made by YOU! Really, it’s too much, Miss Susan! I love that Casa Pacifica benefited from all the book purchases, and I have enjoyed reading, and re-reading, A Fine Romance. Love, love, love it! The only bit of England I’ve seen is Heathrow, your book makes me want to take an extended trip.
A very Merry Christmas to you and Joe!
Oh yes, there is so much more than Heathrow! 🙂
As I was scrolling through all of the comments looking for the comment I left you yesterday (never did find it, but understandable – there are a gazillion of them) I felt like Miss Nancy from Romper Room School with her Magic Mirror:
Romper, bomper, stomper boo. Tell me, tell me, tell me, do. Magic Mirror, tell me today, have all my friends had fun at play?” I see Nancy B and Linda S. Oh, and there’s Jane and Bonnie from Bakersfield and Beverly. So many girlfriends from Bakersfield. I think if I were lucky enough to win I’d invite them all for tea and we’d raise a cup to toast our Do Bee Miss Susan. Thank you Susan for the love and sunshine you spread! You are the BEST!
Too cute Suzanne, from that magic mirror!
And if I win, I’ll invite you, too! 🙂
So glad that you are having such a great time nesting! And that you are slowly decoarating and preparing for Christmas. SLOW is such a nice word! Slow down and relax I tell myself, enjoy this moment I remind myself! Love the tea set and all the sheep. We live on sheep farm and soon it will be time for our lambing season and everyone in the house is looking forward to the magic of newborn lambs in the cold winter barn! Have a very Merry and Cozy Christmas!
What a great Christmas gift! I really enjoy your beautiful blog! Thank you for sharing your great ideas with us! Merry Christmas to you and your family.
what a fun post! love all your lambs. I have a sweet picket fence enclosure from an estate sale that I keep my lambs in….and to keep my puppies out .
can’t wait to make the almond brittle…I always make your coconut macaroons for my husband. Merry Christmas
Kathy Raley
Loved your book …..A Fine Romance! Such fun reading your blog and keeping up with your travels. Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and joyous New Year!
Reading your blog is a comforting way to start my day.
What a kind and very generous giveaway! I hope the winner pours blessing upon blessing on her family and friends from that cute teapot for many years to come. Have a wonderful Christmas, Susan!
Susan,
Beautiful china, oh my goodness, so beautiful!!! I love your lambs too!!
I’m sorry I missed you when you came to Kentucky. I hope you enjoyed Pleasant Hill, lovely place to visit. We lived near there, in Lexington, for 20 years and visited many times. If, I had known you were coming, I would have had you for tea. Maybe, we can do it next time.
My Christmas wish for you and Joe, Sweet Blessings for the coming year and lots of love.
Merry Christmas,
Bobbie
Merry Christmas Susan!!!!!!! I love the way you bring us all into your home and life:)
That almond candy looks yummy and so does the sweet potato!!! Ahhh home. Im glad you share how you “feather your nest” with us, giving us hope and warmth for our own. Thank you!
My heart gave a little leap when I saw the lovely tea set you got in OKC. Some of my fondest memories as a little girl are shopping for antiques in OKC with my great Aunt Bonnie. This post is one to savor! Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy New year. You are treasure. Becky in OK
I fully enjoyed this post. I am crossing my fingers, I love the dishes! On days when I am not feeling at the top of my game, I so enjoy reading your posts and it helps lift me up. I will be on a two week vaca soon and plan to go over your old posts and fully enjoy the season.
Merry Christmas, Susan,
Love the tea set and love your posts, thanks for all you do!!
Wow! Susan, you are always so generous in your giveaways! Thanks for all you share with us blog readers. Your blog is such a joy to receive and read. I have one lonely BP figurine that I bought many years ago…..not so much because it was a BP figurine but because the figurine was a *cat*! I really need to start haunting antique stores again looking for some BP companions for lonely Tom Kitten…….a thrift store find would be thrilling too! Christmas does seem to be HERE and I also am not as prepared as I have been in years past; however, I decided a couple of weeks ago that I was going to enjoy the season and not be stressed in trying to “get everything done”!
So glad you’re back home. Your new book is a delight!
Oh, dear! I am in love…again…with the sweetness of your blog. Thank you for the beauty you bring to so many of our lives. We can never be reminded too often of the many small blessings we are bathed in every moment of the day.
Love and Joy, Pam
At a time when my life seems to be spinning out of control and I cannot seem to stop it, I read your blog and find a glimmer of joy. Thank you. God Bless and Merry Christmas!
Such a beautiful lamb collection! I love the dishes, and how sweet of you to think of your girlfriends! Welcome home! Thank you for sharing your cozy homecoming pictures with us!
I so enjoy reading your blog, especially love the recipies. Thank you for sharing your home with us.
Good Morning Susan~~~~Wonderful post!! Very festive & uplifting :0). Love your lamb flock~~~the one with the blue flower garland around her neck popped right out at me because I have her sister! My mom bought her when she was pregnant with me & I will be 65 on New Years Eve. I think I remember there were two but only one has survived. I had to fix her broken leg at one point~~~but she is precious. So happy you found more Beatrix Potter figurines! And the dishes are gorgeous. Thank you for sharing them with us!
Jack looks like he’s very happy to be with you while he sneaks peeks at the cardinals~~~. I agree with you about taking it slow getting ready for Christmas. I have been doing little bits everyday & savoring the time.
Have a lovely day!
XOXO, Linda
Going to have to try the almond brittle~Looks amazing! So happy you are home now, Enjoy all of your posts. Still reading “A fine Romance”…lol I only allow myself 2pgs at a time so that I can savor every tidbit. Please write another book soon.
Home at last — what a nice sound! The gingerbread bookstore is adorable! That you for enjoying nesting and sharing it with us. The almond brittle looks yummy — I need to try that. Thanks for blessing us and hope you have a blessed Christmas celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus!
I really enjoyed reading your blog this morning. I woke up feeling very tired and not wanting to face the day, but after reading your blog Im ready to enjoy my day. Im also ready to enjoy a yummy sweet potato for lunch! Thanks for making me hungry. May you and yours have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Oh this would be ever so delightful. Thank you for the opportunity.
Merry Christmas Susan and Joe,
Thank you for taking the time out of your busy christmas season for all of us. Just getting back home is alot of work to get back into the swind of things. “Home Sweet Home” at last. The tea set is so beautiful. Love Christmas goodies also. The Love of my life “Cliff” and I had a Christmas cookie decorating party yesterday and was so much fun. Took lots of pictures and had a blast. We made cookie box gifts for all our children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. So happy you wrote to us today. I have been on every morning looking for you. I know you must be so,so tired after such a long trip. We al appreciate you, and Love you Girlfriend.xoxoxo. Have yourself a merry little christmas. Oh so sad to see when i went to buy my Santa towels they were all gone. So sad. Please make them again! Thanks, just try. Well got to go make Chcolate Fudge for some homeless people I see standing on the side of the road with there signs. Last year, I saw a little boy that asked his Mum if he could have a stuffed puppy dog and She told him, ” we can’t I”m sorry, She had not much, it was Christmas time , I welled up, I looked at her and said May I ? She nodded YES!, I bought it and gave it to him and if you could have seen the face on the child…” It was so worth it!” I Love Christmas! Love to All.. LT in Maine.
Susan,
Love those Beatrix Potter figurines. My sons favorite story is Mr. Jeremy Fisher.
I read it so many times after a while I didn’t need to look at the book. He’s 31 now but I still have fond memories of that story. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you, Joe, Girl and Jack.
Sheila in South Carolina
You truly do know how to ‘keep Christmas’. This time of the year I so often feel stressed, but I visit you and immediately I feel peace and calm. Your place here is a lovely place!
The gingerbread house make-over is adorable. Surely a lot of work but the result is wonderful.
All of your recent finds–treasures–are wonderful and I’d love to win the dishes and the candy!
It is so nice to have you back home–it just feels right. Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Wonderful Happy New Year!
I have been wondering just what delightful ditty you brought back from your antique visits. Teapots are my weakness & green is my fav color!! It’s SO beautiful!! Your generous spirit is an appropriate feeling at this time of year!! Lucky to be considered one of the Girlfriends. Spied the tea tin in background & it reminds me to order ,,,hope still in stock.I would give my husband the brittle since just had all nuts removed from my diet. Btw….description of honing in on a treasure is exactly how I feel when nothing else matters at that point in time,,HA! Just saw one of those Santa cups & thought too small for candycanes…now I need a small plant to use for decorating. Thanks for your goodwill & the JOY always!!
Susan I don’t comment often enough but I do LOVE you 🙂 I bought your first book in a charming bookstore when it first came out and every one since, read your every post and buy every calendar. Shop often in your online store! Love Jack and Joe, too. Thank you for all the pleasure you’ve brought into my life and my friends and family thru the years XOX, Diane
I loved how you described your finding Samuel Whiskers similar to a submarine sonar system! I have a friend just like that when it comes to finding April Cornell tea towels. We both can be standing in front of a display of kitchen linens and she’ll beat me to it every time! I am making your chocolate dipped macaroons for a cookie exchange tomorrow evening. They are at the top of my list for easy, no-fail recipes…….delicious every time.
Merry Christmas to you, Joe and the kitties!!
thank you for all the wonderful ideas. love, love, love it all.
Oh my goodness! What a fun thing to do. Love the tea set and the brittle sounds so yummy! Thank you for such generosity and thoughtfulness. I hope you have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Dear Susan,
What fun to see your blog come up on my mail once again every time you share your joys over the small moments that mean more then we give them credit for, they’re the sweet treasures that are truly the foundation of a happy heart’s life. I feel blessed to be one of your friends!
To see the so-dear set of china in your sink being loved and cared for, to later quickly get my pencil and paper to capture your recipe so I might have it to share with friends also, then to think…you offer it to your friends…oh, my goodness…
Thank You for brightening our day, I tell my friends about the delights of your mailings often. God bless your Christmas.
Ruth Steele
I Love Love Love your blog, I wait with giddy anticipation until I see it in my inbox. I love the treasures you found on your journey which I enjoyed following with you, but I am sooo happy you are home, it’s where your heart is for sure.
Welcome home, you nesters ! I am doing as you are doing; getting ready for Christmas, slowly….keeping it in my heart and not feeling rushed, but happy.
Please enter me in the drawing for the tea set and sweets. I have great news! My youngest son (28) is proposing to his sweetheart on Christmas Eve. He got the thumbs up from her dad, the ring is being sized, and he is figuring out what to say when he asks her to “come with me on this adventure called life.”
“Sweetheart” is a very girly, loves old movies, loves the home arts, kind of young lady and I would be delighted to give her the tea set as an engagement gift. Merry Christmas, friend from afar!
Wonderful news, Becky! “Sweetheart” sounds like another girlfriend. 🙂 You’ll have to send her this way to meet us all!
Thank you and THANKS for the comment! Happiest of holidays!
Welcome home! I know you are glad to be able to nest again. I like to travel but the nesting urge gets strong in me. The almond brittle looks wonderful and of course the tea set. It is lovely. Have a Merry Christmas
Well the tea set is lovely!!! and the brittle is DELICIOUS (have not made my batch yet…this weekend is kitchen weekend). Thank you for the warm and cozy message this morning. Tis the Peaceful Season. Merry Christmas.
Thank you Susan for your blog! I am home sick today with a fever from my grandson Will. Thank you to Will for a quiet day so close to the holidays! Yea
I am sitting down to breakfast with Cinnamon sugar toast points and enjoying your recipe for the almond brittle. Later today I am going to make the brittle because I have all the ingredients. Thanks for sharing! I work as a secretary at a school and work a lot so I too do not have the decorations on the tree yet. Perhaps this weekend. Happy Thursday!
Welcome home! So glad to hear you made it safe and sound and are snuggling in nicely 🙂
Merry Christmas to you both!
Another great post today as usual. OMG. . . you are giving away a beautiful vintage tea set to a lucky winner! I would be happy with just the coordinated hot pads marking the page for your almond brittle recipe! Today I have included a special ‘musica’ poem for Vanna, (with sincere apologies to Mother Goose and all poets everywhere)!
(Sung to I’m a little tea pot)
I’m a little teapot, short and stout
Here is my handle, here is my spout
When I get all steamed up, hear me shout
Just tip me over and pour me out!
Choose my name dear Vanna, please pick me
I’d love to win the tea set to serve some tea
My guests would be so happy when they all see
I won the china tea set from Susan B.!
What a beautiful tea set! Thank you for such a wonderful blog! I was so pleased to see a new entry this morning and had such fun reading it.
SO glad you are home and loving it- but what a marvelous trip you had- again!
I am also cleaning, decorating, crafting and cooking – slowly. 🙂 It feels great!
Merry Christmas to you and Joe!
Oh! What a wonderful Christmas surprise your gift of something sweet from you and a beautiful tea set! I think it tops anything Santa could bring this year….
Best Wishes to you and yours for a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!!!
Hugs, Cocoa
Oh, your enthusiasm is soo contagious! I’m happy to see you found new Beatrix Potter friends. I understand the thrill of the hunt. I just found 5 pieces of Belleek china at a Goodwill for $3.99 each! Woo-hoo! Your tea set find is beautiful. Merry Christmas!
Oh Susan, I am so glad you are home, as I sit in my cool living room, in my favorite chair, and look at the photos of Jack, the fireplace blazing, the BP figurines, the bookstore, the peanut brittle, the lambs, the cardinals, etc., ( and I read your last post, which I somehow missed), I am so glad you are home. Whenever I enter your home, I feel like I am home, too! It’s nice to be one of your girlfriends! Thank you so much for YOU! And a Happy Christmas to you and Joe, and Jack, and Girl Kitty! xxoo JO
Hi Susan
I was at your book signing in Downers Grove Il. I have our picture in my kitchen and it reminds me how wonderful it was to meet you.
I have your new calendar. My neighbor gave me my first one last year. She is from England and I shared your book with her and she found the town she grew up in and the tea shop her parents had.
I am an artist and paint birds and flowers and so look forward to your web site . your girl friend. Linda Happy holidays and a hug for Jack and Girl kitty.
What a very small world Linda!
I love all the home-y Christmas-y things you are doing. Isn’t it interesting to be able to feel kindred spirits with someone you never met. I put your 2014 calendar on my Christmas wish list. I love practical and beautiful gifts you can use all year.
There is joy and inspiration in everything you write – what a truly lovely person you are to think of us in such a special way. This will definitely make Christmas so very wonderful for one very lucky individual… and all given from the heart and love of the home. A wonderful Christmas to you and Joe and your special kitties. Judy C
Not only were you born with the “happy gene,” you were born with the “share the happiness gene!” What a generous and thoughtful give away, and so timely, as we just finished painting our dining room a lovely shade of Tadpole Green.
Merry Christmas sweet one!! You are such a joy and have inspired me many a time. Enjoy the rest of the holiday season and may you have many blessings in the coming year.
Oh my! What a wonderful gift. It’s a lovely tea set. I’m so glad you made it home safe and sound. Enjoy the season and give Jack a little kiss for me!
Luv, luv, luv the lamb collection, and boy, did you hit it big with the BP figurines. I haven’t seen those models either. We’re all just so happy you’re home because your home is kind of our home too! Dishes are fantastic and what a nice thing to do at Chrismtastime. They may be the “Naples” pattern from Tuscan. Happy new year to all the people and furry children in “our” house!
What a lovely treat! So kind of you to share with us….and just in time for a Downton tea party:)
Ooh, Susan, how lovely! Wish I could follow you around on your antiquing adventures! You have a good eye for scouting our neat finds…and they always look even better once you get them to your lovely home! I’d love for you to send them to ME! 🙂
Merriest of Christmases to you, Joe and your two furry little angels!
I love the tea set and hope I win it! So glad you’re back safe and sound. I have read your book twice already and love every page. Have a merry Christmas!
Thank you for the wonderful idea (almond brittle) for gift-giving this year. I always like to prepare homemade gifts. It is wonderful to have you home again. I missed seeing jack on a regular basis.
So pretty!