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 and thank-you for all the inspiration you’ve given me. I re-read your Christmas Joy every year. Wishing you many blessings in the New Year!
Peggy <3
What a lovely opportunity. Thank you Susan and Joe. I have been following your stories for a long while. My aging mum had English parents (Dad did too) so this year I am giving Mum “A Fine Romance” for Christmas. I know she will love it.
I have some lovely English china, some of it collected on two visits to England. Just love your teaset but it would be a long shot for me to win it and have it sent to Australia! I just love looking at the pictures and you have rekindled my love of photography and watercolours. I will take some lessons in 2014…not too many…just enough.
Enjoy your Christmas with eachother, your kitties, family and friends.
Susan, I love hearing from you. You are like a long distance friend. May your Christmas be warm and cozy. Thank you for sharing your wonderful stories.
Hi Susan,
What a beautiful life you live, and so generous to share it with us!
I have so many of your books, and have enjoyed enormously the latest
book, along with a nice cup of tea from your tin. You and Joe have a
blessed Christmas and very Happy New Year!!!
Susan, you brighten any day and touch lives in wonderful ways. Merry, Merry Christmas.
It’s a sleet-y afternoon here, perfect for Christmas music, baking cookies, and wrapping presents. A bit of tea would be the perfect addition to the fun!
Always look forward to your posts. Enjoy seeing pictures of your beautiful home and things you are working on, or cooking. I adore Jack and Girl kitty (they keep the happy memories of my sweet Jordan and Missy). I love checking your vintage section for your new finds. I am always on the watch for vintage tea pots. Have enjoyed your tea, and the cute canister (will be ordering more soon!) Would loved to have caught you on the book tour, but you didn’t get down to my area.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! to a wonderful girlfriend …..
Looks so yummy!
Dear Susan,
You’ll be making someone very happy with your give-a-way! It’s a lovely set.
I hope that you and Joe will have a happy and blessed Christmas.
I have my copy of ” Christmas Joy” out on the coffee table, along with a dish of Christmas candy, and a Fontanini Nativity glitter globe that plays “O, Holy Night”.
Tomorrow I have to put out the Nativity scene on the table here in the living room. Usually I have it done much, much earlier, but I’m a bit slow this Christmas. I have actually considered not putting it out this year, but I do so love looking at it that I made up my mind to do it. Our youngest daughter and her husband and their little boy will be here at the beginning of the new year ( they are in Texas right now with his folks)and Susannah loves seeing it, too. Before they moved to N.Y., she helped me arrange it. : )
I cannot help but wonder if you have gotten all of your decorating done, what with you and Joe having gotten home just a bit ago!!
May I say that I have so enjoyed reading your blogs! It is so good of you to share with us.
Take good care now, Susan, and a Merry Christmas to you~~
Sherrill
Hi Susan,
I love collecting lambs, too. And vintage dishes always set my pulse racing – reminds of my grandmother’s mismatched kitchen cupboards from so long ago. Hope I am the lucky winner! Love you philosophy on the Christmas rush. Slow and easy and enjoy every moment sounds so refreshing. Anyway, have a very Merry! ~Colleen~
Reading your blog = absolute joy and happiness! Thank you and Merry Christmas Susan!
Happy holidays from Michigan, where all our snow is melting from the rain we’re getting today. We’re baking, cleaning and wrapping today, getting everything ready for the big day. I love reading your blog! It’s like a little escape from the everyday craziness. Thanks so much for letting us all into your life.
Thank you for making our worlds brighter by sharing your art, ideas, life and more. Love love love l you do. Merry Christmas to you and your furry babies.
Dear Susan,
I believe in my heart,that we have been friends forever! Bosom Buddies, like Anne and Dianna in Anne of Green Gables.
I imagine that if we lived close enough we would visit over tea in beautiful little china cups, while talking of kitties, painting, grandma stuff, gardening and holiday decorating!!!!
My imagination has run wild with happiness!
Merry Christmas,
Lynne Freeman
Lynne, we are all bosom friends like Anne and Dianna – all of us – we all think alike 🙂 – I am baking my 2nd batch of cookies since church this morning…yummy smelling goodness floating through the house!
Oh, Susan, I’m so glad to have you back in your home with all the things you shared with us over the years, not to mention Jack and Girl Kitty.
Did you receive of Spikey “reading” A Fine Romance?
The tea set is darling.
Merry Christmas!
June
Oh, thank you for sharing your stories with us. I’m always checking your website for the ‘newest of news’. Best wishes for a wonderful holiday to you, Joe and your entourage.
Your tea set is beautiful! I love the special green coloring that just sets up the other colors for a warm and cozy showing! Your BP purchases have inspired me to look again at the stores around me for the “set aside” gems!!!!!
Love your posts, Susan!! I just love the Tea set! Your pictures are the greatests! I miss cape cod and New England! I move to CA thirty yrs ago but my heart is still back east. I now live in Las Vegas! Have a Merry Christmas to you and your family!
I would be just thrilled to have those dishes and your yummy homemade candy delivered to my door. A lovely post…I happened to love little lambs too,but my collection is very small compared to yours 🙂 Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Hi Susan,
What a wonderful blog and pix of your travels. Happy holidays to you and all your family from me and mine. Thank you for sharing such beautiful stories and ideas all year. Love from the Southern Hemisphere where we are melting in 40C heat! Please send some snow our way!
Sending a big whoosh of it now, I hope it lasts through the travels! xo
Dear Merry Susan,
Jeepers, there are already over 2000 comments, so I would have to be super lucky to win those beautiful tea dishes….so I am going to hope and pray really hard, because God usually answers all my prayers in just the right way. Even if I don’t “win” I will still be happy because someone else may need a special surprise more than me, and an angel will see to it that just the right person wins.
Gosh you have nice collections of such cute, cute stuff. Just love you and your blog and the happiness it brings me. My cutest collections are of you and your books, calendars, scrapbooks, etc. I adore anything Susan Branch. You are my kindred spirit! Merry Christmas to you and Joe and Jack and Girl Kitty!
Your Friend, Randi —<—-<—@
What a generous soul you are! Such a lovely tea set! Thanks for all your ideas and inspiration!
Would like to share tea and scones with you using this lovely tea set, and have you share wonderful memories of your travels to England.
Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Jack, and Girl Kitty.
I love Tea Pots and Tea Cups and Tea too! Pretty little cloths, scones and brittle. So I am ready to serve. Love it!
Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!
Dear Susan,
I just got done making peppermint bark and sat down to rest and was hoping for a new blog post from you. Thanks for making my day! Now I’ll have to try the almond bark next time. Last night we had the annual Gingerbread House Sleepover at Grandma ‘s House. We invited the two toddlers this year to join the older ones. What fun chaos! Wishing you and Joe a peaceful joyous Christmas!
Dear Susan
I don’t know why but I feel a sence of peace knowing you are home all snug and cozy. I guess there is no place like home. I wish you and Joe a very Merry Christmas.
God Bless
Carol
Merry Christmas to you and yours….especially the kitties. I just read this post and got a warm fuzzie feeling…like I always do when I read something on your blog. We are waiting for a big snow…we are all ready for Christmas here in Illinois…a white Christmas… hooray.
Balisha
Merry Christmas Balisha . . . it sounds lovely.
What a fun, creative bookstore you have in your area – LOVE the way they decorated it:) You lucky duck, finding those little BP friends. Beautiful tea set but the almond brittle in a little tin would be heaven:)))) Last of my cards in mail today!
Delightful post and nose kisses to girl and jack! xoxo judi
XOXOX Judi!
My youngest daughter is coming home tonight from a four month stay in Japan as an exchange student. I have the house all decorated for Christmas, with presents under the tree, the fireplace on and her bedroom all nice and clean with fresh sheets. My husband is out buying some steaks to make a special dinner for her tonight and I happened to sit down at the computer to read your blog for a nice break from all the preparations. Your wonderful post about decorating the table inspired me to get out my vintage Christmas table cloth, vintage green glasses, and Christmas napkins. I decorated the center of the table with all of my paper Christmas houses I have collected over the years that were still all boxed up. It looks so festive and delightful! I can’t wait for her to come home and see everything! Thank you for the inspiration to make her homecoming even more memorable… I can’t wait for the sound of her car in the driveway!!!
Ohhh, I’m happy for you Diane, what a wonderful celebration you’ve planned. I can’t wait for the sound of her car in your driveway either!!!!!
Oh my heart skipped a beat when I saw that lovely tea set, but when you said it was part of a drawing, my heart started pumping out of my chest! So lovely. You are too much!
Hope you have a restful and joyous Christmas with your loved ones. That is the greatest gift of all. Merry Christmas Susan, Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack from Jackie Bentley and Winston! ❤
The reading people! 🙂 Thank you Jackie!
Hi Susan, I always look forward to your posts, thank you for raising our spirits and reminding us that the simple, homey things are important.
Thank you for sharing such happy posts in such a charming way. Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Your candy sounds yummy I will try it. I have lots of tea sets and some cups very like the set you are giving away, but I covet the box that has mince pies printed on it . Mince pies have long been a family favorite down through five generations. My mum was English and brought these tasty treats to every Christmas . I am now carrying on the tradition and I know my granddaughters will after me. It just isn’t Christmas without mince pies . Merry Christmas
I think you just might be right about that Beverley!
Wow, Susan, that tea set is absolutely gorgeous, and aren’t you sweet to think of us girls as you traveled the country. Well, we missed you and are so glad you’re back! That brittle looks amazing, can’t wait to try it. Merry Christmas to you and Joe and Jack and Girl Kitty!
What an amazing post, Susan!! How wonderfully ironic that as I was reading it, I was having a snack: yes, a buttered, salted, caramelized sweet potato!!! Made the way you taught me, with the skin buttered and salted! Before I properly knew how, I left off the butter and salt. So nice to be taught how to bake one the tastiest, most proper way!! 😀 Absolutely delicious, and such a treat! And what a beautiful, dainty tea set! Such a lovely, wonderful gift one of us will receive. But having you as a blog friend is a wonderful gift, too. It warms my days to read your posts and visit you via blogland. Thank you, generous Susan!! 🙂
I have a potato on the counter now to make for breakfast! So glad because you have just made me very hungry for it!
I haven’t been antique shopping in a while. The last time I went, Grammie and I found the final installment of the lemon drop jars for all of us granddaughters. We got the idea from our book The Lemon Drop Jar written by Christine Widman. In it an Aunt Emma tells her great-niece about “her own childhood in a place where it was always warm and sunny. When she was older she traveled north to school, where the winters were cold and snowy. One gray day a special package arrived, and it contained the sun inside.” It was a cut crystal jar filled with lemon drops. Grammie used to read the story to me when I was little, then when I went away to college she sent me my very own lemon drop jar filled with lemon drops. Now my two cousins also have lemon drop jars that we have found while antiquing. Grammie also has her own from her mother after she passed away 10 years ago. Last fall, we put all 4 of our jars on display next to the book. Merry Christmas to Sue, Joe, Jack and Girl Kitty and all the Girlfriends, too!
Love that family tradition Jacque!
Dear Susan,
How can it be possible that I feel like I truly know you? Your joyful and giving spirit is just a beautiful thing! I have many girlfriends and speak of you with them as if you’re part of our circle. It’s a rare trait to be so delightfully transparent, and able to relate directly to the heart of each woman who follows you.
May you have a quiet, warm, and cozy Christmas with Joe and the kids. Thank you for sharing your life so openly with us, it truly is good to know you!
I feel the same way Elaine!
I love the tea set. I’m really glad your home. I loved the travel photos, but I love your home photos best 🙂
Happiest in the place where the kitties live and my stove is!
Love reading all your recipes and beautiful journeys. And thenpics are perfection…
Hi Susan, I am here on the central coast. We miss your little store in the Village here. This season has brought us sorrow, my mother is passing…but our tree is trimmed, the packages are wrapped and blessings counted daily. Thank goodness for family and loved ones, the sun on the big pacific ocean and lots of critters at the bird feeders. Happy Solstice!
I’m so sorry Stacey, Christmas blessings for you and your family. xoxo
Oh, dear. I hope I’m not too late! Just got out of the hospital yesterday and I see your lovely post. Thank you for sharing your warmth and coziness!
You’re right on time — hope you are feeling better!
Just looking at the dishes soaking in the sink was so cozy. There’s something therapeutic about washing dishes – especially a set as beautiful as that!
Wishing you and yours a wonderful Christmas – and thank you for your generosity to the charity.
So much to enjoy in this post 🙂 Thank You for everything. The sites and smells were wonderful.Both My sister and I also collect sheep and lambs.That was a wonderful little surprise that You do too.Your happiness to be at home I can truly feel and relate to. The Joy of simplicity esp. at Christmas is so appreciated.Your warm and giving spirit is also felt and appreciated.I’m loving Your book 🙂 Thank You again for everything-Denise
So happy to hear you like the book Denise! Thank you xoxo
Dear Susan,
Glad you and Joe made it home safe. What a lovely and special gift to receive. Thanks for including us in your life. Wishing you, Joe, Girl and Jack a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
I missed you at the visit at Strawberry Patches, so wish that was not the case. I love your delightful blog, and thank you for sharing all the wonderful recipes and idea’s. I totally loved your yam post as they are our favorite food in the world. I have myself a little tea party every afternoon…. it’s my favorite time. Merry Christmas, to you and all your loved ones.
I had such a wonderful time with Suzanne and everyone at Strawberry Patches — I hope to do it again one day!
That would be wonderful Susan (so glad I packed that pink tutu away in the closet)! We’d love to have you and Joe back anytime!
When you come you will get to meet my new kitty. If you remember I was looking for a male black and white. What chose me was a female tabby. She literally reached through her cage to hold my hand and when I picked her up and she licked the tip of my nose that was it. I’ll take her. Here in California it is a state law the all animals cannot leave the shelter before they are micro chipped and spayed or neutered so it will be after Christmas before we can bring her home. When I went to pay the adoption fee the clerk told me she was a sponsored adoption and that someone had already paid her $60 adoption fee. Merry Christmas she said. I have a feeling she will be one of our all time best Christmas gifts.
She chose you, what a smart kitty she is. I’m so happy for you! What fun you’re about to have!
Hugs to you Penne! This time of year there are so many sweet temptations in our staff room, but none of them can compare to the sweet goodness of a really good yam. Barbara and I have one for lunch almost everyday and comment how perfect they are. We missed you at the book signing and miss seeing you as often as we used to. I hope you are well and are still making your glorious wool creations. You are so talented!
xox Suzanne
Susan, I always love checking your website to read about your latest adventure. There is something so magical about your art. I’m looking forward to reading A Fine Romance…(a little elf told me I’m getting your book for Christmas! I couldn’t be happier about that! 🙂
The china dishes are soooooo pretty! What a lovely find! Whoever wins these is indeed lucky!
Happy Holidays to you and Joe….and your sweet little kitties, too!
Hi Susan,
So glad to hear you and Joe made it home safe and sound! I married the love of my life, Joe,♡ September 20th. I used your “Love Makes the World Go Round” flag on the wall as a backdrop for our cake table, and the guests signed your Wedding Blessings guest book! It was just beautiful! Everyone said you could just feel the love in the room (we married in our favorite Italian restaurant).
Thank you for all the inspiration you give me for making my home cozy and welcoming! I love all you do!
Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Happy new marriage Sharon ♥ … “everyone said they could feel the love in the room” — isn’t that just perfection! Merry Christmas!
What a lovely post! just love the tea set, I have a few special pieces of English china, but no Christmas ones, the colors are so pretty! I enjoyed the cardinals esp. at your window, and the bookshop photo! Success & Blessings with the new book! I hope you have a wonderful Christmas. The candy looks delicious! I’d love to win this!
Happy you are back home after your successful round trip, coast to coast! Thank you for taking us all along with you, and now for sharing the sweet tea set and the brittle in a precious Emma box! Yoooo hoooooo, Vanna! Over here!
A joy FULL Christmas to you and Joe, to Girl and Jack! Xoxo
Susan…you are such a good girlfriend….this tea set would be wonderful to have tea with my sister with ……Lucky and blessed will be the recipient of your generosity…. Looking forward to the next year of wonderful with you..Thank you and Merry, merry christmas!!
Merry Christmas! Thank you for the internet encouragement. We are new empty nesters and looking at your blog helps me have a new, happy vision for our journey.
Having the world be your oyster can seem like a scary thing, until you get used to it! 🙂 Have fun Mary, you earned it!
I always love to see what delights you share! What adorable finds of figurines… great treasures! Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas!
My wish for you and yours is a glorious holiday season. Your love and creativity inspires me often. Nothing better than a cup of tea with someone kind.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Minnesota! Enjoy the lovely stories and ideas. Thanks for being and inspiration!
Love your blog – it’s the highpoint of my Inbox – any day !!!! When I was a young girl the book “The Boxcar Children” was inspirational. The orphaned children made a life with cast off dishes and found objects which created their home in an abandoned boxcar – started me on a lifetime of collecting and loving dishes and furnishings from a previous era. Wish you could visit and see my things – they mirror many of yours. Thanks so much for sharing your life with all of us!
I bet they’re gorgeous! I like seeing how my taste has changed over the years . . . things I loved “back then” as to the ones I’m after today.
Glad you are back safe and warm, Susan. Jack will never leave your side now! Thanks for your delicious recipes. I’m going to try the brittle for Christmas. Merry Christmas.
Love getting your emails. Thoroughly enjoyed your trip to England and the pictures you took. I too collect sheep and am always on the lookout for them.
Merry Christmas and a happy healthy New Year!
Thank you for taking us along with you,opening your home and your heart! I love your blog!
Merry Christmas, Susan! Thank you so much for your blog and all your books. They are a special treat that I look forward to!
Merry Christmas to you and yours and a big thanks for your inspiration on a daily basis. The tea set is scrumptious ! What a stunning gift. I need to go flea market shopping more often myself. Warm regards, Joyce
Hi Susan,
Merry Christmas! Greetings from the lowcountry of SC. We just moved into our new home and haven’t put up our tree yet. We are taking things slow too and keeping Christmas in our hearts this year. Blessed New Year to you and Joe.
We turned on our lights last night! It’s getting Merry (ier) in here! Kitties seem to have no interest in the tree, so the blessings continue!
Happy Christmas Susan. Thank you for another year of joy from the heart of your home.
Doing my part to get you to 3, 000 comments, dear Susan! That may be a record, isn’t it??? You are so loved! xo….Karen P.
Definitely a record!! I’m glad I waited until I was home so I could enjoy it!
It is a REAL uff DA! 🙂
NOW I get it! 🙂
♡♡♡♡Cherished, beloved, treasured!!!! ♡♡♡♡
Merriest Christmas, Susan & Joe, from all of us!!
xoxo Dawn!
What a treat! Thanks for the opportunity Susan! I spent the da in the kitchen making my mother-in-law’s wonderful biscotti with lemon glaze. Something my family looks forward to every year.
Can’t wait to try the almond bark next!
Thanks again Susan!!!
Hi!
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Xoxo
Thank you Susan for sharing your joy in all things. You remind me of my beloved mother and aunt who made life a little more special with precious things like tea pots and fancy spoons. Oh would I give to share one more moment with them. You remind us all what Christmas is really about. Home, loved ones, and special times. Merry Christmas!
You are so sweet. It would be an honor to bring that lovely tea set into my home.
What a lovely give-away! I live vicariously through you…your blog & website!
What a Merry Christmas it will be if my hubby & I are drinking tea from this beautiful set!
❤️
Susan,
How lucky you were to find more Beatrix Potter figurines. But, how lucky they were to come home with you. I know you were beyond excited. Your blog is always a gift. Ever so grateful for you and your creativity. Thank you, thank you. Enjoy your slow progress getting ready for Christmas. Your are absolutely correct, what gets done will be enough to fill yourself with joy of the season.
The tea set is precious. The brittle looks fabulous. Every bit of the blog brings delight to my soul.
Merry Almost Christmas to you and yours.
Love and bunny hugs,
Shirley
Hi Sue! I’ve had so much fun reading about your epic trip and seeing the wonderful treasures. The teaset is precious, as are the Beatrix Potter figurines. I have to keep my eyes open a little wider when I go to antique stires in the future!
Merry, merry Christmas!!!
Warmest wishes– Annie
Hi Annie! So nice to see you here! Merry Christmas to you and all! xoxo
Thank You Susan for sharing all your travels and treasures. Its always fun to hear about your adventures and your life. I guess its why we love books so much because they take us away to someone elses life and its all so romantic and wonderful. Martha’s Vineard always seems like a Norman Rockwell painting to me and a place that seems like home no matter where you live. The tea set will be a blessing to someones Christmas I’m sure. Its adorable. I too am taking my time enjoying all the precious parts of Christmas. Family, friends, and the birth of our Savior. How blessed we are. Merry Christmas Susan and Joe and Kitties!
I just found you!!! So happy I did…love your books!!and art and blog!!
Hi Susan
That is a gorgeous tea set. If it came my way, I would have a lovely tea party in your honour. Your post warms the heart-just what we need when it is -39C here in the north.
Merry Christmas to you.
Susan M
My favorite Christmas treat is brittle. Think I’ll make some for my daughter’s family this year. Thanks for all the wonderful ideas!
What a beautiful set….if I’m lucky enough to win it, you can come over for tea the next time you’re in California!
Sooooo happy! Another drawing!
Loved seeing all your trip treasures. New BP babies… bonus! And that tea set…too much. 🙂 My sister lives in Bartlesville, OK and has had great luck with antique stores all over the state. Who knew?
Your laid back approach to your Christmas prep is refreshing. We all should take a little lesson. Bet you’ll have one of your best Christmases ever, happy to be HOME!
My very best wishes for a wonderful holiday and a great 2014! (Hard to top your 2013, though! 😀
With this many comments already, I figure that I have a snowball’s chance in you-know-where, but I figured “what the heck?” LOL! The brittle looks wonderful, and the china….oh, my! I would LOVE to drink my afternoon tea from one of those cups! Thanks, Susan and have a very Merry Christmas!
Lots better chances than the lottery! Good luck Laurie!
So glad you and Joe are home safe. What a treasure you and your blog
are. Amazing how we share so many common interest. My Grandma was
the one who introduced me to tea. It started out as more warm milk with
a splash of tea. Needless to say throughout her life we shared many cups
of tea together and yes I learned to drink it black. The tea set reminds me
of a set she used and all the special times we shared. Thanks for reminding
of such fond memories. Best wishes for a very Merry Christmas. We too seem
to be a little behind with our decorating but as always so enjoy the season.
Love your beautiful artwork, wonderful stories, travel adventures, inspiring pictures and last but not least for being a little girl at heart.
My age for life is twelve. I looked at my Girlfriends book after I was done and realized it was written for twelve year olds. “How to take a shower!!!” 🙂
Merry Christmas Susan, its so great to have You back home. Enjoy the weeks festivities .best wishes juliexxx
What a pretty little tea set! Reminds me of my mothers. Thanks for the opportunity to win it. Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas Susan,
Thank you for your sweet blog! You are always so inspiring as your cheerful heart comes out in all that you do! Thank you so much for sharing your heart! I absolutely love your A Fine Romance Book and now how sweet to find that you have shared with Casa Pacifica! I wonder if you would be surprised to see how many lives you have touched with your kind spirit and your artwork! I remember many years ago sharing my love of any Susan Branch book with my sister who shared with her dear girlfriend whom was so excited to give my sister a special gift of your A Fine Romance Book signed by you at a special book reading in Menlo Park, Ca! I loved seeing the joy that was shared in that sweet gift and just thinking of the ties that bind us all together! It is pure Joy! Thank you! Wishing you a wonderful Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Love, Colette
I love that it all seems to go around, like Girlfriends love to do, share their hearts with each other … xoxo Thank you Colette.
Oh my gosh Susan! This post has over 3,0000 comments! How wonderful! More girlfriends! Thank you for your awesome generosity…..the tea set is gorgeous and with green my favorite color! I gave my daughter in law’ s mom your Girlfriends Forever book and a small SB 2014 calendar for Christmas. I had been telling her about you and all your darling stuff. The book was a hit and all of the women had ti look at it. It was not in the pile of opened gifts, it was in circulation the whole evening. Have a wonderful Chrismas Susan and Joe! Much love to you and the kitties!
It’s just like the comment above Vicki … we are all word of mouth with each other. Who could ask for anything more? Thank you so much … Merry Christmas to you and yours!
What a wonderful post! I can’t wait to try the almond brittle. I have a recipe for the best white chocolate dipped gingersnaps that I love to give as gifts so the almond brittle would make a wonderful addition to that!
I LOVE the sound of those gingersnaps dipped in white chocolate!
Susan, I feel like I’m living right there with you – your home is beautiful! Reading your blog is one of the highlights of my day!
Happy to have you Patricia!
Dearest Susan,
Thank you for always brightening my day! I loved reading this post because you filled it with such beautiful and delicious photos. I have the Beatrix Potter figurines you found on your trip in my collection … aren’t they adorable? My flock of sheep is much smaller than yours, but I love it. Wishing you happiness this Christmas season.
Warmly,
Marge
What a treat to read your posting while waiting for the coffee to brew. Merry Christmas to you and Joe!
Hello Susan!!
Hope you are well! My mom and I had the lovely privilege of meeting you in Kansas City this year at one of your book signings! That was so fun! A memory I shall cherish always!
This tea set is gorgeous! My mom and I are china-lovers too! I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I win!
I hope you come to Iowa again! If you do ~ stop by and visit us, your “girlfriends” and we’ll make tea and scones and enjoy a good chat!
Merry Christmas to you, Joe, Jack, and Girl-Kitty!
Hugs from Iowa,
Spenser
Susan~ you warm my soul! Reading your blog gives me inspiration and reminds me to slow down and really enjoy the simple pleasures in life:). Having a beautiful tea set would be a great way to do that! Merry Christmas to you, Joe and your beloved pets!
Finally got a few moments to sit and read your blog. You’ be inspired me to make almond brittle. I may also make some peanut brittle. When my father-in- law was alive, I would always make him a big box and send it off to him. It travels well. Today, we have our big family Christmas party. I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.
Hi Susan! So glad you are back home for Christmas. It’s been fun to travel along with you and Joe. I myself am “nesting” now(finally) after completing a string of activities I was in charge of handling(including banquets, showers, receptions). They were all fun and turned out so nicely but they were all back to back and kept me from tending to my home and family! I was able yesterday to get into my kitchen and make a pot of soup for a dear friend whose father had a stroke and won’t be home for christmas. Today I am planning to bake with my daughter all afternoon ( she is the one headed to England to study for the next 6 months)! Precious time together in the kitchen making delicious treats and wonderful memories!! Merry Christmas to you, Susan! Thanks for all the inspiration!
Susan,
I have enjoyed your books, blogs, calendars . . . everything you do, for years. And Jack is just the cutest. I hope you don’t ever run out of what inspires you to share your creativity.
Dear Susan
I love your new treasures! Glad your home and all tucked in for the holidays. I’m just sitting back hoping and praying I will be the lucky one . Oh the fun I would have playing Tea party with my girlfriends. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Tea Party On ! Barb Kuzdzal
Love the tea set with the green, my favorite color! Someone will be the lucky one, but with over 3,000 comments on here, wow. Christmas is getting close now and I bet you’re really busy. Did you get your tree decorated finally? We’ve been having barrels of rain here in Ohio melting all our snow and temps up to sixty. Doesn’t look like we’ll get a white Christmas now. Hope you and Joe and the kitties all have a wonderful Christmas!
Wait for me….wait for me…I want in on this tooo.So glad you and Joe are home safe and sound.I was a lucky girl to meet you in person when you were in Ohio,so I am happy you left the Island for a while….but now I am glad you are back…I was home sick for the kitties and your wonderful,happy,warm and inviting home!!!! LOVED,LOVED,LOVED the book,after the holidays I will be rereading with all the extras.I have to say,I loved England,but my favorite part was when you and Joe went to Boston.The beginning of love when all the senses are heightened.I could feel the wind on my face,the snow falling…how do you do that!!! Merry Christmas to you,Joe and kitties
Thanks for letting me tag along on your travels, I really enjoyed myself.
Everything is covered in ice this morning after the storm, it is so pretty to
look at.
Once again thanks for the trip. I hope you know how much we enjoy your
emails.
This is a feast for the eyes. I’ve looked and relooked at all the beautiful pictures. Thanks for being there. You make my day. Happy Holidays!!!
Merry Christmas Susan! Thank you for your blog and wonderful book.
Hi Susan,
So happy you made it home OK!!! Merry Christmas and A Happy Healthy New Year to you & Joe, Jack & Girl.
Be Safe, be well, warm & wise, my friend.
Merry Christmas Sue, Joe and kitties!! In the past couple of days I’ve mixed up lots of cookie dough and today is baking day. Pan after pan of spice, eggnog, lemon and chocolate cookies – just like a Keebler elf (; . I love the smell of Christmas cookies baking. Poor hubby, he only gets the burned or broken ones for right now. Once I’ve packed up cookies to give away and fixed up a big platter for Christmas dinner, then he can help himself. I have found him sneaking before though!! A Blessed Christmas to all the girlfriends.
xoxo from Maine
The Almond Brittle looks yummy — and the addition of chocolate makes it even better!