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! ♥
I’m loving your blog this morning. The Beatrix Potter figurines are adorable. I have one – but will keep my eyes open for more. Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas!!
Martha from CT
Your posting is such Christmas joy, all cozy and warm. I think that your attitude about keeping Christmas unhurried, even if it means only a simple poinsettia plant is displayed, is a good one for all of us to adopt. ‘Tis no the season for stressing and hurrying. Thanks for reminding us of that. Merry Christmas to you, Joe, and your kitties.
Susan, you are the embodiment of Christmas as well as my inspiration. It’s about loving your home and wanting it to be a happy place for all. Joyeux Noël!
hey Susan, I miss those Christmas-time gift tags you had on last year. They were the greatest. Actually I really need more. All the ones I copied are gone. Please put more on. Thanks. Thank you.
We will work on that . . . in the meantime, MUSICA!
Thank you for sharing all your favorite things! Merry Christmas!
Always love reading your blog. I’ll bet the kitties are sooo glad you are home. Happy Holidays.
Thank you for the wonderful post, just the thing to start my day in a positive way! It is such an encouragement to hear from a woman who cherishes her home and all who enter. The tea set is beautiful, congratulations to the winner! My daughter, Rachel, will be the recipient if my name is drawn. She prepares marvelous meals using recipes from your cookbooks and hosts delightful tea parties for the ladies in our family. I am grateful for the wonderful influence you have been in her life.
Merry Christmas to you and Joe and of course Girl and Jack.
I loved the blog pictures in the Yorkshire Dale. I have stayed in England 5 different times myself but always love seeing someplace new Thanks so much!
Merry Christmas Susan!
Thank you keeping my Christmas cup full of good cheer…all year long really!
I’ve written this before, but I want to tell you again, so many of our family Christmas traditions come from your first three books! I was young when we married in 1988…those books were part of making a loving cozy foundation that has lasted and blossomed to this day.
I wish you and Joe all the Christmas blessings a heart could hold.
❌⭕❌⭕,
Tawni Urrutia in Lodi, Ca
Merry Christmas, Susan. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, your adventures, your art. Truly inspirational – and thanks for the give-away 🙂 Hi Jack!
I can’t believe that recipe is so easy – I think even i could make it! Tea set just waiting to be used and loved! Happy Holidays and I’m all for your taking it slow theory. Can you believe my 7 year old son fell while we were chopping our tree down and as I type we are waiting for him to have surgery as his little leg got infected. He is excited though as he gets to ride a mini motorcycle into the operating theatre. When life gives us lemons we have to make lemonade!
Gaynor
Ohhh, poor baby! xoxo
Made it thru and Santa left him lots of goodies!!
Love your Blog and the chocolate almond brittle. Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas! So glad you have made it home and are settling into the Holiday routine. Hope Vanna Picks me!
Oh, I loved your post this time of all your treasures you bought from your trip. Can’t wait to see your tree all decorated. It is as if we are part of the family. And it always keeps me in the “Holiday Spirit”. I absolutely loved the tea set! I couldn’t believe you are giving it away. You have such a loving giving heart. Isn’t that what Christmas is all about? Giving and sharing. We should all take this message to heart and truly know that it is more blessed to give than it is to receive…the true message of Christmas to give to others. Thanks again Susan for giving so much to others. We all wish you and Joe and all the girlfriends and families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year or how every you celebrate your Holiday Season with your family and friends. Happy Holidays from Judy Ann from Georgia.
Oh my! I woke up this morning and oh what a pleasure to read your latest post! Cozy in my flannel sheets with my Ollie cat by my face, your writing has set the tone for my day. I too love Beatrix Potter anything, pretty dishes AND sweet potatoes for lunch……aren’t they the best! Susan, thank you for making us all part of your coziness and warmth. Hugs from Ontario, Canada, to you and yours a wonderful holiday season.
Hi Tina, just wondering which part of Ontario you are from. Happy Christmas.
Hi Elaine and other readers too! I live north of Belleville in the country near Stirling. Don’t you just love Susan’s art? I go all smiley when I see anything she has made. After reading this latest blog I got all excited to keep putting up little “pods” of decorations and lights around the house where I never had put anything before: kitchen windowsill, in a bookshelf, on top of a pantry, putting mini lights by a tiny mirror and safe, battery wax candles in the “pods”. All this while I simmered Christmas spices, a sliced lemon and orange and Christmas tea on the stove. What an aroma! Happy Holidays Elaine!
I love your posts and look forward to them. Thank you for filling me with your Christmas spirit! Love everyone of your posts and specially this one which is such an inspiration to me, I also love to roam in old dusty stores and found a hidden treasure there. Your pretty book “Sweets to the Sweet”, couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw it, perfect for this time of the year!
Merry Christmas to you Joe and your beautiful furry babies!
I love the BP figurines. I collect them also, but I haven’t seen that Samuel Whiskers one. Hmm, I’ll have to go looking. 🙂
I can just imagine how wonderful your kitchen smells. I am definitely trying the Almond Brittle recipe. Yum! My hubby will love it.
I am sure Jack and Girl are so happy to have you home. And I’m sure you and Joe are glad to be home also. Have a Merry Christmas, Susan. And thank you for bringing bright moments to my day! 🙂
Merry Christmas to you too Jennifer!
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Loved reading your blog today! Such a warm, cozy, holiday feeling!
Wonderful!
Would love that tea set!!!! Beautiful!!! Merry Christmas!!
When I saw those dishes my heart skipped a beat! They are just beautiful!!! And to think you bought them for one of us! How incredibly thoughtful!!! Thank you, so much, for the recipe, too! It looks delicious! Loved our visit this morning! I’m here in the northeast, too. So with the snow and bare trees I love seeing the cardinals and blue jays at our feeder. They are like flowers in winter!!! A very Merry Christmas to you!!!
Good Morning! I am having a cup of coffee, reading your blog and listening to the Arizona rain. What a beautiful way to start the day. Today, I think I will go on the ‘hunt’ for a BP figurine in our local antique or thrift stores. Your recent pictures of your BP finds are so cute and tell so many stories. Thanks for sharing…BMcD.
Just finished reading A Fine Romance loved loved it. I hated for the story to end. Im not a reader and always admired those who are readers. So at age 59 I have read my first book cover to cover. I took in every word and could see it all in my mind I could even smell the flowers. Im looking for another book to read but am afraid I will be disapointed cause nothing is as good as your first. lol
Love the tea set it would be nice to win and bring it back to Oklahoma. I saw after the fact that you were in Okla and I missed you, I was so sad. Im also a Peter Rabbit fan and all three of my grandbabies are becoming fans also. Love your blog!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Merry Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties. Debbie
Oh thank you Debbie … I have a Book List of books I think you would LOVE … start with Enchanted April and prepare for a treat!!! xo Merry Christmas to you and yours.
We’re kindred spirits. I just loved that China set and would have bought it as we’ll if I had seen it in a shop. More importantly, I really enjoy your blog because we love so many of the same things…nesting at this time of year is special! Loved A Fine Romance..now I want to do a similar trip. So nice to see some of the proceeds going to help those in need.
Have a wonderful Xmas season and lots of cozy downtime in your lovely home. You deserve a rest after your book signing odyssey. Merry Christmas from Sudbury, Ontario, Canada…a far away girlfriend!
Dear Susan,
Thanks for being a source of inspiration for me to take time each day to notice, create, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life that abound all around! To fill my soul with gentleness and beauty, to pass it on to others. What a gift you have to encourage all of us in our endeavors! Thanks for sharing your adventures (and recipes!) with us! May you have the most meaningful Christmas with all those you hold dear!
Shen Wood
Your blog really puts a person into the spirit of whatever season you are featuring. Your “A Fine Romance” has been a gift to friends in my neighborhood, you truly captured the heart of England. Merry Christmas to you, Joe, kitties, birds outside looking in, and all the treasures that share your living space. Pat
Thank you Pat, Merry Christmas right back to you. xo
My heart warmed and I got all tingly with the first picture of that beautiful tea set. And now a chance to win it and some of your delicious candy! What a treat!
Glad you are home and enjoying the Christmas season! <3
Hi Susan,
I just posted a comment, but forgot to mention that I, too, have Spode Pink Tower china ( I see it in your blog photos). My set belonged to my dear Nanny – place setting for 16 with all the serving pieces you can imagine. I have the bill of sale from when she purchased it in 1943. I just love it and use it for every family gathering and have even decorated two rooms in my house around it. Nanny was the most hospitable person and what a privilege to me to attempt to carry on her heart of caring and sharing with those dishes!
Shen Wood
How wonderful Shen! Ours came from Joe’s Great Aunt, and is also very large ~ perhaps purchased around the same time as your Nanny’s set.
What a great post- thanks for sharing!
Good morning, Susan. The two ivory cups you added to the beautiful tea set look like my parents’ wedding china (1948.) Does it say “Franciscan China Made in California” on the back? I happily gave the china to my niece, but saved one tiny bowl for sentient. It was a joy to see the cups on your blog. Thank you for your wonderful blogs.
Those are actually from my set of Rose Chintz but so many of them look so much alike…I’m glad they brought back the sweet memory.
Marian McKeehan…….just wanted to ask if you got your Franciscan china in Glendale, CA, at the factory? There used to be a factory there that my Mom-in-Law & I used to frequent. One of our earthquakes demolished the factory. My own set of Franciscan Desert Rose pattern was also lost in one of our earthquakes. My Mom-in-Law had the Apple pattern. She lived in PA & used to come to CA for visits. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
Please put my name in Vanna’s mix! You are so generous to us!!! Merry Christmas to you and your family.♥♫
Taking a break from the Christmas rush with a cup of tea, a gingerbread cookie and your wonderful blog. . . a perfect winter morning! Thanks for sharing, Susan, and Merry Christmas!
Thank you for such a wonderful post and for sharing yourself with all of us in internet land! May God Bless you with a wonderful Merry Christmas!
Wish you a very Merry Christmas! And the tea set is so lovely and I know exactly who would love to receive it! My mother!!!
I’ve already cleared a spot in my cupboards for this lovely tea set! 😉 Thanks for the great giveaway!
Susan, thanks for being my internet friend. I, too, love dishes. I don’t say china because I love all of it….my dishes are made by Bybee Pottery in Ky. Check it out. They are a very old operation and family owned.
Would love to win the dishes….they are beautiful, perfect for a tea party with my girly girls Amanda and Autumn. My lovely granddaughters. They love having a tea party with old mommy(that’s me). Merry Christmas and blessings in 2014
MerryMerry to you and yours…I LOVE your philosophy…what doesn’t get done doesn’t matter…just breathe in the love of this wonderful season and enjoy every minute…love Titcomb’s and all your treasures…we’re just back from seeing two of our grand children’s Christmas pageants…little Sophie’s was complete with cows, angels, Mary, Jesus, Joseph, and SHEEP!!!…they were absolutely darling…the 3 to 5 year olds couldn’t have been sweeter in their costumes and our little Sophie was so brave…she spoke all her lines into the microphone…she was worried her “tears would just come out” when people looked at her…what a dear…not one tear…only one three year old boy tried to take off his shirt!!!…I know you are enjoying every minute in your lovely home on your lovely island…LOTS of snow here in northern Michigan…enjoying every beautiful snowflake…it’s wrapping weekend here…have a blessed holiday, Susan…xoxo…
…good morning Susan..’don’t know if you’ve heard this yet.. go to You tube and type Drummer Boy by Pentatonix… ‘love it !!.. (i’ve always loved that song)… enjoy !
Merry Christmas!!!! and I love your stove/oven 🙂
I love your blog and your lifestyle! Oh how I would love the new antique tea set…to enjoy with my granddaughters in the little cottage my husband built for me in my backyard. Thanks for all your creative inspiration!
I think I just gasped audibly when I read those beautiful dishes for for us, one of your wonderfully blessed readers! I too want to find the still , calm, and quiet of this season!
Mmm…thanks Susan: for sharing the joy of pretty dishes, yummy homemade sweets, curious kitties, and lots of lovely musica for the holidays!
Ahhh. I always come away from your posts smiling and refreshed from the simple beauty that you see in life and share with us. Thank you. Merry Christmas!
Welcome home and Merry Christmas!! Jack looks like he is happy you are back home too 🙂
Susan you certainly know how to put a smile on a girl’s face! Happy, Happy, Happy I say. I can taste the Almond Brittle now. Wishing you and Joe a very happy Christmas.
I decided that I would clean my oven today before starting the cookies and while the oven cleaner works I checked your blog…What a treat…some day I’ll probably be able to read it without my eyes filling up with tears, but I always love what you have to tell us and they’re really happy tears. I, too, decided to take it slow and easy this year. I finished my shopping early and have been able to play for the last week. It’s just been great. Merry Christmas!
Hi Susan!
Writing to you from Solvang, CA. Last week I went up to Arroyo Grande to meet my friend Gayle for lunch and we talked about YOU! We both just finished reading your wonderful book, A Fine Romance. Our husbands both read it as well and loved it! Thank you for the wonderful recipe. I’ve been making brittle for years and it is a favorite of our family. I’ve never thought of brushing on the chocolate though….much nicer and thinner finish! Wishing Joe and you a wonderful and cozy Christmas. Debby p.s If I am the lucky winner I am gifting the tea set to my sweet friend, Gayle:)
Hello to you and to Gayle too — xoxo
Hi there! Woke up to snow this morning on the west coast. We’re told by the weatherman that it won’t last ’til Christmas but that’s okay. It’s a lovely way to read your cosy letter to us this morning. I’m snuggled in front of the fire, Christmas tree lights glowing, cuppa beside me and your lovely message to read. This will inspire me to finish the decorating today. Thanks for sharing your heart and home with all of us. So appreciated. Merry Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties. Hugs.
Your blog post came at the perfect time! I have had a bit of a falling out with a good friend of mine or should I say someone I thought was a good friend of mine! Feeling kind of down and when I opened my computer this morning your post was the first thing I saw. A very happy sight! I love all the things you found on your trip, especially the BP figurines. I’m sure they’re very happy to be living in such a happy place! Thank you for being my friend! Merry Christmas! ♥♥♥
Hope it’s better soon Michelle! xoxo
Bless you, Susan. Your enthusiasm for life is contagious. I love seeing the view from your kitchen window. Merry Christmas. Suzie
We just got our first snow where I live in Washington State. Seems as if we get less and less every year and its later and later every year. But oh how I LOVE LOVE LOVE the snow. I play in it, go for walks in it, but the best part is coming in and warming up, then baking something yummy. Oh I forgot the bestest part…..watching all the kids play in it, from young to old. Have a wonderful day in the snow or watching the snow either way it is wonderful.
Ah, Susan, you came to my rescue yet again. Thank you, for the gentle reminder of perspective during what had turned into a very hectic season for me. You reminded me to breathe. To take a moment to see what is around us. To not worry about what doesn’t get done; enjoy what IS. Smile and count my Blessings. You and your positive blog are among them! (The tea set is spiffy, too! :))
that tea set would be perfect!! having four kids, 3 of them boys, our fine china has always been corelle! we’re waiting for our best present this year-grandchild #6-a girl! have a great Christmas with family and friends-that’s what matters! mb
Susan,
I love your life! You are so lucky! Merry Christmas to you and your family. I always look forward to your blog. God Bless,
Sometimes “less” is “more”…… we don’t need all the glitz and glitter to surround us to make it Christmas. We just need the ones we love to light up our lives and that’s what makes Christmas warm and cozy and wonderful. And that’s how what you write makes us all feel….warm, cozy and wonderful! So I’m going to go fix a cuppa tae and sip it in my great grandmother’s china cup (don’t tell me mum, she thinks we should save the good stuff for important holidays only) and thumb through your Christmas book for a good dessert recipe for tonight….because it doesn’t have to be a holiday to have dessert!
Love your blog, love your books, don’t ever let that pen leave your hand!
Dear Susan, Love the lambs! Merry Christmas and enjoy a cozy winter.
Hi Susan… I came back for another look at your sheep… I see a little birdie flew in to be with them!… xoxoxo
Moving at the end of the month and reading your blog was so relaxing and took some of the stress away, thank you thank you
Susan,
OMG….what a fabulous Post….I loved, loved your Treasures from across the Country…and I can smell the Choco Almond Brittle and.. the Sweet Potato..
So sad…something important came up and My Girlfriend and I could Not come
to the Remnants of the Past…so sad…missed seeing you..but saw lots of photos you sent. I just want to be in Marthas Vineyard with you…in your beautiful surroundings…This year I made your Cranberry Jam…10 of them, slowly as I need them..Crocheted cute different pattern tops for the Jars, in different Colors, and been giving them out for different Holiday events to favorite people…and nibbling on the Pan leftovers each time…It is tasty on almost anything…
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Susan…God Bless
Carol O. in So. Calif, just over the bridge from where you grew up.(with the your Red Toile Gravy Boat…xo}
I loooove all the pictures of cardinals! I live in So Cal and feed the birds year-round. We have a thistle sock for gold finches, so that’s the winter color at my house.
Susan, I do believe you are Santa Claus! Certainly an Elf! Merry Christmas to you all at the Heart of The Home/Santa’s Magical Workshop!
Merry Christmas! I never quite know what to write…and sometimes it comes out ALL WRONG….but I do know how to say Merry Christmas properly! 🙂 I hope you and Joe and GK and Jack all have the best times together. I appreciated when you said that you are not rushing. We seem to be taking it slower this season as well, but we are enjoying the holidays even more that usual.
I am definitely going to make your recipe for candy for gifts this weekend…all I need is to get the bar of chocolate! I like to give gifts to all my neighbors, and this will be perfect.
I loved the house that is decorated with tablecloths! I dont know if I can make one for my house by myself, but I LOVE that idea…it is so cute. I hope you will make one for your house next year….I think it would be fun to try it out for Valentines and Easter too. Whoever thought of that is brilliant!
I am so happy for you that you found a whole bunch of new “friends” to add to your collections….they are always wonderful to see whenever you get a new one .
My darling daughter is home for the holidays and we are all having such fun! One thing we are passionate about doing is putting up Christmas lights…and making a hot chocolate and driving around to see everyone else’s lights! It is free and fun! It rarely snows here in WA state, but last night it did, so I am sitting here with my coffee looking out at the beautiful white blanket. You are very lucky to get snow as often as you do…and the gorgeous redbirds!
Have a wonderful Christmas!!!! xoxoxo
Dear Susan,
Have a wonderful Christmas! Glad Jack and Girl have you and Joe home. So time to do up the tree and sing songs.
As I sit here savoring my morning coffee and devouring every nugget of your post, I am transported back in time to wonderful warm memories. Such a beautiful California morning, sans the red cardinals, here in Santa Ynez. Love reading your blog…..it’s how I love to start my day!
PS. The Union Jack bunting I ordered completed the “pub” look for my dad’s 80th birthday! Thanks again.
Perfect Tracy!
Merry Christmas, Susan!
I just know that a cup of tea in the darling teacup would help me get over this lingering respiratory “whatever” I have. I work as a substitute teacher and probably picked up cooties from the 1st graders I taught 2 weeks ago. I have been sick ever since!
Your blogs always cheer me up so keep them comin’. I hope your new year is even happier than 2013 for you and Joe.
Stay sparkly,
Jerri
San Juan Capistrano, A
Thanks for all the work you put into your blog posts. Every one is like a small getaway, lovely and full of fun ideas, good photos, drawings. And food. Of course!
I can’t tell you what a joy your book “A Fine Romance…” was for me to read and I also gave it to a friend who found out she had cancer just as they were ordering their tickets to go to England. She loved it and said that she took her vacation through your book, as I did. It would be great if she and I could share a cup of tea in the beautiful china and enjoy your Almond Brittle. Thank you for all of your blog messages and have a very Merry Christmas.
I hope your friend is doing better Linda! xo
I’m glad you’re home safe and enjoying the season.
Welcome Home Sweet Sue!
I’m so happy that your journey was successful and that you’ve returned home safely to the land of purr-heaven! Wishing you and your darling man a peaceful, contented Christmas holiday!
Much love,
Diane Marie ~ P.S. Loved meeting you in Hudson, OH!! <3
Merry Christmas – the tea set is adorable. I think I would have bought that set if I had seen it also! Best wishes for a Happy Holiday and New Year.
Hello Susan,
I just loved this blog post! So glad you are home and enjoying the fireplace and making treats, just taking the Holiday easy and enjoying every moment of it. You sound like you have such peace. It’s a good feeling to be so contented. We were thinking alike, I read the post on my kindle, but when I wanted to listen to the music and comment I came to the computer… but not without my favorite new DVD “The Happy Holiday Hearth” which is a virtual fireplace for those of us who unfortunately don’t have a real fireplace. I wanted to share it with you and all the other girlfriends who would enjoy it. Then I found when I clicked on the music that you had thought of that for us yourself…by selecting the “Best Christmas Songs -2” it has the crackleing fireplace for us to enjoy! Wow, so thoughtful…but then you always are so thoughtful. Cannot tell you how much I treasure your website and all of your blogs.
Wishing you the best Christmas ever! And a very happy and healthy New Year.
Love you, Deb
I just found you this past summer through a magazine that was advertising A Fine Romance. I knew immediately when I saw that adorable ad, I had to have the book!
I have since purchased 4 more of your books. I just love all things Susan Branch, you are such a treasure. Have you thought of writing a children’s book with Jack as the main character? I am a teacher and kids love books about animals and the funny things they do. And adults do too!
I have thought about it. His mustache deserves a book! Not to mention his talents. So nice to meet you SusanB!
Love your postings. Gets you into the Christmas Spirit. Wish I was in the snow…
thanks and Merry Christmas…
Susan, thanks for the joy you share with all us Girlfriend’s, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year. Knowing there’s a post from you on the other side of this screen is joy enough. Thanks, too, for always sharing your heart and family with us. You’re a blessing, indeed!
Merry Everything!
Bliss!
Marie xo
QUESTION: re: the recipe for the almond brittle – in your book it says boil till temp reaches 295 —- the blog says till temp reaches 300. Which instruction is correct?
Thank you!!!
They’re both right … either is good. I stop it right around there, no longer than 300.
I especially loved your comments and pictures this morning! My guest bedroom has a ‘sheep’ theme and at Christmas they meander to the first floor to gather round the Nativity scene. We’re kindred spirits when it comes to being ‘dish persons’! Mine are in various nooks & crannies around the house to be pulled out seasonally. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year celebration!!
PS: Would absolutely LOVE to win that TEA SET, it’s so charming ~ being so English. Also I’m going to make some of that wonderful Almond Bark this afternoon after I pick up some Chocolate to melt and wrap a few gifts to place under the tree. Then…it’s sitting in front of my (Virtual) Fireplace with a mug of hot cider, a cozy blanket and a good book while listing to some Christmas music. (Did I tell you that the DVD also has the Christmas Music option.)
Stay warm…I know you’ve got all that Snow around you. Enjoy!
Susan, you are such an inspiration to my day. You always bring a smile. I love reading your blog, so thankful for such a warm, sweet lady to bless my day.
Jack is such a cutie! I love seeing him. My nephew loves to peek over my shoulder while I’m reading your blog just to see what Jack is doing.
What a beautiful gift you made! I will look for the receipe for the brittle as it loks so yummy. Who ever won that is blessed:)
Merry Christmas. What a beautiful Tea Set, I love following your blog and I am so enjoying your book. I enjoy all the pictures you attach and your fun stories.
Have a safe and Happy New Year
Good gracious, what a post…nothing like nesting when you come home from a long long trip. You think you’re going to be worn out…but then it begins, and you just can’t help yourself!
And I see little furry lambie on the end…I knew she’d fit right in:)
That tea set…Oh, I have no words! You must love us a LOT! …and then to add that decadence…well, good grief.. I don’t have enough fingers and toes to cross.
Big hugs and kisses and thank you’s for being so good to us all….
and much love to you, Joe, kitty buddies and lambies,
Christie Ray from Franklin, Tn
P.S. I ordered and received the most darling fabrics from Suzanne at Strawberry Patches *Wow, such cuteness there* that I’ll be using for Sophia’s baby doll and Teddy bear wardrobes, and have downloaded your adorable apron pattern (after seeing Maria’s made up in Thanksgiving fabric). I now have your fabric to begin the hat quilt. Winter will not last long enough, I’m afraid;)
Her store was magical … filled with so many wonderful things. I wondered how anyone could make a decision!
It wasn’t easy! I got a little of this and a little of that..
including some cute fabric with kitties! Sophia grabbed that first…spread it out like a picnic blanket in the living room, sat on it, and declared, with a big smile on her face…”dis is mines.” So now I have to decide what sweet thing to make special for her, out of that:)
Suzanne must just be a doll! Thank you for sharing her with all of us!
…and I’m with you on taking things slow this year. If it doesn’t get done…the world will not end.
Enjoy!
Oh Susan – I am treating Christmas exactly the same as you! I’m taking my time trying to savor each moment. I did lots of online shopping to make my life easier. I’m doing some gift-wrapping and baking this weekend – although here in Virginia it’s going to be very mild weather -60’s & possible 70 degrees. Can’t wait to see if Santa brings me A Fine Romance on Christmas – it was on my wish list! I think I’ll try your candy recipe to share with the neighbors 🙂 Merry Christmas!
What a wonderful gift. I love reading your blog. It makes me feel I am right in the kitchen with you. It is cold and snowy here too. I am looking forward to all the family being here for Christmas. Merry Christmas to you.
Well, I was gone to work all day yesterday and boy am I late to this party! Over 2400 comments! No surprise there, what a special gift you are sharing with your girlfriends 🙂 And the toffee looks so good and easy…yea! even I could do that! What a treat! Thank you!
The tea set is absolutely gorgeous and I love all the beautiful lambs you brought home with you. So nice to know that Samuel Whiskers and Mrs. Tittlemouse will have such sweet company.
Please give a sweet hello to those absolutely beautiful cardinals in your yard. I have their replicas all over my house. Merry Christmas!
Oh I love this time of year!! Everyone and I mean everyone is getting a homemade gift this year! I have made this recipe many times…always perfect and you know what!! I have all the ingredients waiting for me…along with gingerbread granola and snicker bar fudge…. swoooooon!!
Hi Susan,
I love reading your blog. It gives me the warm and fuzzies everytime I read it! My go to for Christmas is Caramels that I make. But, I am going to give your candy a try.
Merry Christmas to you! Thank you for all your postitive energy and writing.
Laurie
Thank you so much – I have just made your almond brittle having converted to British measurements, and it looks fantastic! I can’t believe how easy it was.
All the way across the pond . . . ♥
Holy cow there are a lot of comments! Oh well.. I would love that beautiful tea set, so here goes nothing 🙂
Thank you for the Christmas inspiration! Off to go make some treats 🙂
I always enjoy receiving your blog. It brings a smile to my face no matter what the weather is like outside. The dishes are so beautiful, and my favorite colors! How do you find such beautiful things?! I guess you just have to keep looking. I’m visiting my 86-year old mom and my daughter. We are planning on doing lots of cooking. Now I know what we’ll be making this weekend – chocolate almond brittle! Thank you so much!
What a lovely post, cosy and perfect for this time of year. Merry Christmas to you.
Susan,
First, thank you for making it to California. I enjoyed meeting you so much and treasure my signed book & calendar. Second, thank you for the great candy recipe. It looks easy and will fit in perfectly (next year) with the baking weekend I do with my daughter. We give lots of goodies to nearly everyone we know! Third, I love the treasures from your trip and can’t believe you’re going to part with that tea set. You are incredibly generous to all of us “girlfriends”. Have a joyful Christmas season.
Just got back from a mammogram – going to make a cup of tea and then start baking!
Thank you for how precious your life is.
that darling tea set is just perfect for the cold months ahead, the brittle, i shall make this weekend, my first ever attempt at CANDYMAKING!
Hope your Christmas is as lovely as you are dear Susan…i may not get to post very much, but i adore your blog and it cheers my 30 minute lunch break 5 days a week!!
Hugs and Much Love,
deb webb
I love reading your blog not only for the receipes but for the music and pictures. Everytime i read something and listen i feel like i’m cold and in the snow. Thanks for sharing your life.
Love, love, love your blog. Merry Christmas!
Oh how I love Beatrix Potter figurines and the lovely china set! And who could forget the almond brittle…makes my mouth water! I love your blog and your books!!! It’s hard to pick a favorite! Sabrena, Olympia Washington
Hi Susan and Merry Christmas. I’ve been looking for a peanut brittle recipe, and this Chocolate Almond Brittle will be the perfect “brittle” for me to try. So, in just about 10 minutes from now, I’ll have the butter, sugar and water on the stove and be on my way to trying it out. What a nice surprise about the tea service. It is lovely! And, what a nice contribution to Casa Pacifica. Glad you’re home safe and sound. There truly is “no place like home for the holidays.” Kathy T (in Rialto, CA).
Thank you especially for this post of your blog (they all help me to stay “centered” and calmer). We were literally snowed in for a week here in the beautiful Ozarks and while it was beautiful there were stresses involved….But, having been raised on the philosophy of tea making all things better – we struggled on – but think how much lovelier it will be next time with a beautiful new tea set??!! I’m going to make the brittle now while I wait!
How fun to share your great finds from your cross country trip. I am also happy that you are now home and enjoying the season from your lovely nest. May you both have a great year to come.
As always, I loved your blog and always feel so happy after reading them.
Your new set is gorgeous and looks very much like the one my cousin-in-law has. She’s in her 70’s and it had been her grandmother’s before her! No telling how old it is. Have a Merry Christmas, Susan!
Dearest Susan,
2400 comments already–I’m a little late, Christmas elfeing, you know! But I just wanted to say how glad I am that I’m not the only one behind this year. I’ve already warned everyone that the Christmas baking is now becoming New Year’s baking. It’s been a “tough” season–but it’s good to have you for COMPANY!
Love and holiday greetings to you and your whole family–both two-legged and 4! legged!
Hugs,
ElFe
You do have me for company … as long as you are having some fun, it’s OK!