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! ♥
Susan,
How generous you are! The tea set is stunning and some lucky gal is going to be very happy.
I wanted so much to see you at Vroman’s but had a time conflict. Your blog is a feel good place. Thank you!
Thanks for sharing your beautiful, cozy home (and kitty cat) with us. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!
What a delightful post! I feel all warm and cozy, like I was with you in the kitchen – it smells wonderful! Please enter me in the drawing – what a charming tea set and a great birthday/Christmas present it would be for me!
My Honey was watching me write out Christmas cards and he said “aren’t you going to send Susan and Joe a Christmas card? And I said” I think I will”. This year most of my Christmas gifts to my girlfriends and daughter came from the Susan Branch store. I look forward to the ornament every year. I love this years as it reminds me of a cozy and warm home at Christmas. Everywhere I look I have a Susan Branch treasure…..thank you for making Christmas extra special. Oh and I would love to win the tea set and brittle. Merry Christmas!
What a fun way to surprise us with a lovely giveaway! Thank you for the chance to win. The green on the china is such a happy green. Merry Christmas to you, Susan!
What a beautiful tea set! My daughter and I met you in Pasadena and what a wonderful, lovely person you are! I love all of my wonderful books!! Thank you!
I loved today’s post. I, too, am trying to slow down and savor every moment of the season. The weather here in Waco is balmy and sunny, and the corgis are basking in the loveliness of all of it. We still have lots of color in the leaves. Walking in my neighborhood is my idea of a little bit of heaven on earth. Wishing you love and happiness during this most blessed season. Di
OMG, Susan!!!!! Seriously??? What a FABULOUS gift for someone!! I made a 2nd double batch last night of your Christmas jam. I’m having so much fun making it and giving away the 1st double batch was gone in 24 hours. AND this afternoon I made a 2nd loaf of the nut bread (I add orange zest and scrape a 1/4 of a vanilla bean into mine for added fun). Might I just mention to Vanna that my kitchen is bright green, I have more teapots than I can count, and I drink tea every morning and every night!! Did you ladies receive your latest issue of Tea Time magazine devoted to Downton Abbey?! 🙂 and right next to that lovely article is an ad for A Fine Romance – perfectly placed. Susan I’m glad that you don’t have your tree up yet, mine is 1/2 up. My pre-lit tree had half of the lights go out. They are all zip tied on, and you have to use wire cutters to take them off 🙁 My hands have little cuts and boo-boos everywhere. So tomorrow, hopefully, I’ll get my ornaments up, after replacing all of the lights today. Anyway, I would surely adore that tea set and delicious chocolate almond brittle, should Vanna feel inclined to draw my name. Wishing and hoping……
Your blog is like a little book from you to enjoy! Thank you for sharing and I love the tea set, would be lovely to have.The colors are fab!
each time i go online and see a new entry in your blog i feel like i have won a prize! your love of all things cozy comes through the computer and inspires me. thank you.
What WILL you think of next? Hauling those dishes with you, on your trip~~~for your girlfriends! They are quite beautiful, BTW. I am collecting the ingredients for the almond brittle to make for my Mom this Christmas.
Thanks for all you do to keep our spirits up throughout the year!
Happy , happy, Christmas!
What a beautiful tea set!! Thank you for your lovely posts, Susan!!
When I saw the beautiful tea set, I let out a little squeal of pure delight. It is just so very beautiful! When I read that you are going to give it away, I got a big lump in my throat and thought – this is why we love Susan! Such generosity of spirit, such an appreciation of the Girlfriends! You are a sweet soul, and a treasure. I am also savoring the season in simple, relaxing, homey ways. Your posts prompted me to buy some organic sweet potatoes the other day and they are truly delicious, full of potassium, which anyone taking BP meds needs! Merry Christmas from my heart to yours!
I love dishes and nesting too!
I love your Beatrix Potter figures. I’m keeping my eyes peeled for some of my own. My tea set is teeny tiny from my childhood, perhaps it is time for a grown up one!
Merry Christmas, Susan! I feel like we’re old friends.
Your blogs are always inspirational and a source of loveliness. Having traveled in England, I LOVE A Fine Romance & have given it to a few friends, telling them it’s the next best thing to an actual trip! Love the tea set and all your holiday ideas. Merry, Merry Christmas!
As a Tea “stuff” addict all I can say is “pick ME”. So happy for you finding such preicous things.
I have been a fan of yours since…….forever!
Loved reading “A Fine Romance”…..England is so beautiful!
Photos & stories of Jack & Girl make me smile!
I love all things Beatrix Potter too! Your new bunnies are wonderful!
Your sweet flock of lambs are so lucky to be grazing in YOUR home!
Going to try your delicious sounding almond brittle recipe soon!
Waiting anxiously for “Downton Abbey” to return, so I can watch it while (hopefully) sipping tea from that lovely Tea Set that you are so generously gifting!
Thank you Susan Branch, for all the joy you bring…..you are loved by many! xo
Before I got to the end of your post, I had looked at the tea set longingly. So pretty and delicate. I would have scooped up that set myself, had I seen it in the store! Thanks so much for giving us all the chance to own it! 🙂
What a lovely tea set! You have such a knack for finding the coziest things!
Reading your blog entries is like reading a mini biography or sweet novel every time. You are just so full of wonderful words!
The brittle would be enough but I’ll take the tea set if you insist! LOL
Oh it’s so wonderful having you home! And you sound so happy, so healthy, and so where you should be. The whole blog warmed my heart. And I just want to grab that brittle right off the page. Years, years ago I made big batches of peanut brittle and would sell it at the neighborhood corner grocery. One year, when we had a huge snowstorm and we were pretty much home-bound, I bundled the girls up, plopped them on the old Red Flyer sled, and pulled them up to the store to deliver a batch in time for Christmas. Great memories, huh?
Love the additions to your BP collection. I’m sure your “oldies” are glad to have new friends. And I agree with you that mis-matched is the BEST! You are so generous!
Love your philosophy that what gets done is enough, and the rest just doesn’t matter. Enjoy these blessed days; love up those kitties. Thanks for sharing so much with us — Merry Christmas! Ethel
What a gorgeous tea set!! Whoever is chosen will be the luckiest person in the world!
Merry Christmas Susan! Love your blog & your calendars…I am a dish person too!
Thank you such beautiful inspiration. Needed some Christmas cheer!
Thanks for your warm blog and your amazing outlook on life. Happy Holidays.
Christmas would not be complete without my Susan Branch books and decor on display. Your sweet whimsy touches my heart. Thank you for years of delightful reading and thoughtfulness!
What a beautiful tea set! And I think I could smell the almond brittle through your beautiful post photos! Thanks for a lovely prize to wish for.
The tea set is lovely! What shop in OKC did you find it? My family lives north of there, but if I’m in the neighborhood, I’d love to stop in. I have some mismatched green plates that would love to play with the give-away set. Green’s my favorite color!
When I make toffee and top it with milk chocolate, I skip melting the chocolate. I cut it into small pieces and just set it on top of the molten candy, wait a minute, and then spread it! Easy peasy! Saves me from having to clean another dish! Merry Christmas!
Oh! How I <3 YOU SUSAN BRANCH!! Twenty some years ago I stood on your porch for a QUICK photo:). This year I gave my 89 year old AUNT your BOOK….she talks about it every day! Thanks for giving her a NEW Interest:) The most TALENTED Lady <3 HUGS from AUNTIE and Me xoxo
Love to you both Carolyn!
I can’t believe I could be a part of something so joyful! Even if I don’t win the set of dishes, it was an ahhh moment to share them in pictures! Your work is such a lift and I love your blog which I just found! What a sweet place to visit. Thank you so much.
Hi Susan; so glad you’re home. Know you are, too. Can’t believe all the lovely things coming out of your kitchen! I would love to have Vanna pull my name from Santa’s hat so I can win the tea set. Your red and white crocheted hot pot holder is almost a perfect match for one I have that my mother made years and years ago. I don’t use it, but I do love to look at it and feel it and know that she made every stitch and I am very lucky to have it.
Merry Christmas
Ah, what a beautiful spring green (you do know that Spring is on its way in three more days)—-a delightful color to warm us in front of the blazing fires of winter.
Absolutely lovely …..and Yum. Yum. Yum.
Susan,,I love the snowy pictures with the cardinals,,miss that here in san juan capistrano,,I did ask Santa for a teapot from brambly hedge to go with a cup and saucer my girlfriend gave me,,You would love them with their sweet mice on them,,but would love to have your pretty green set from England,,Have a special homey Christmas,,,,Judy
Great eye Susan – fabulous tea set. Almond brittle looks too good – no resistance from me – making it today!
Kathleen
First of all, thank you for your generous gift to others on our behalf. It’s good to go – great to be home! Merry Christmas & a blessed New Year to you & those you love.
WOW! That is a gorgeous Tea Set. Lovely. Hope. to. win. it. Thanks Susan for all you do. Your blog is so much fun, I never miss it. I’m glad you are so good to us. MERRY CHRISTMAS to you and your family!
Oh be still my heart…a green English tea set…perfect for Downton Abbey. Now, I am off to try your almond brittle recipe…although, I look forward to tasting yours…with fingers crossed and wishes blown…maybe that tea set will be shipped my way! Bless your Christmas preparations…
Dear Susan,
I have an amazing friend, Kathy, that I met in 1986 when my husband was transferred to 13662. We bonded over so many things as young women do. We began our friendship over a cup of tea. When I saw that set my first thought was how much I miss her in my daily life and how I’d love to share a cup of tea together now. My husband’s work has transferred us several times since but she and I always pick up where we left off. One of the things we’ve had in common all these years is that we are fans of yours-first individually unbeknownst to each other and then as a pair. You work has made us smile for years. Enjoy your peaceful Christmas. Think I’ll go call my friend.
Tell her I said Hello!
I’m always so happy to read the latest installments on your blog! They always make me smile. I really don’t need that tea set……but it is lovely. Please throw my name into the pile for consideration, because I would LOVE it. I sent a copy of your book to my pen pal in England. (We’ve been writing since we were 11, and are now 55.) She has reported back that she keeps opening up the book and looking up places to visit. I knew she would love it, just like I do.
Merry Christmas!
Susan, you embrace the spirit of giving, not just at Christmas, but throughout your life. Happy Christmas!
I love that you’re donating to Casa Pacifica! What a lovely gesture. That tea set would look perfect on my chippy old wooden trunk that I use for a coffee table 🙂
Merry Christmas, Susan!!! So glad you’re home safely! Thank you, thank you, thank you for the beautiful generous giveaway! The brittle looks wonderful, too!!
I just want to follow you around in your travels some time. You always find the most interesting “stuff!”
Oh! Oh! Pick me! Just like my mom won one of your books for me, I’m commenting on behalf of my mother! She would love the tea set and treats! Those are her colors exactly. How so very generous of you! 😀 And as always…I so enjoy your blog – I live vicariously through you 😉 Some day, I’ll make it up to the NE to travel and tour to my heart’s content…
Merry Christmas, Susan and family!
Oh, how exciting! A beautiful English tea set! I have a gravy boat from my Grandmother that looks a lot like the pattern. I couldn’t resist leaving a comment for a chance to be the lucky winner of the tea set and some of your homemade brittle. Thank you so much!
Oh Susan…you make me sigh. I have been looking forward to a new post all week. I have been working and stressing so hard. I take care of a little 98 year old man and it’s challenging and rewarding all at once. I got home today..to unfinished baking, wrapping, shopping, card writing, and decorating and feeling overwhelmed and quite sorry for myself (shame on me!). Well, anyways. I switched on my laptop and there you were with a brand new post! I forced myself not to peek and went outside in the fresh white snow and finished putting out pine bows and twinkle lights on my porch. I put out my old vintage flexible flyer and hung up my skates and finished it off with a pretty red bow. There, now, that felt better. Then I came inside feeling all tingly from the cold and made myself a cup of tea, I sat down on the couch in front of my tree, clicked on your “musica” and ahhhhhhh…..all became right the world! You help me put things into perspective and realize that I need to stop and enjoy the moment and not worry that everything is “perfect”. What is perfect anyways? I think we all are our own worst enemys. Sooooo, thank you for the wonderful gift of you. You make my heart happy. Merry Merry Christmas to you dear friend. <3
Oh my that is just the cutest tea set! Would love it to be mine! You are so sweet to do such a generous give-away!
dang. I’d love to blame my comment not going through on the computer but, more than likely, it’s operator error -grin-. How do you think cashews would work in your brittle? I haven’t any almonds and am *not* going back over those mountains again; once is quite enough for today!
The tea set is lovely; think how many wonderful memories have been made and will be again.
Oh yeah, it’s gotta be me! 🙂 Ima comin’!
Mele Kalikimaka & Hau’oli Makahiki Hou Susan! I met you many years ago on the vineyard while I was still living on the island of Maui. About 5 1/2 years ago I moved to an island much like yours but on the west coast. You should come visit San Juan Island sometime. Similar but so different than the vineyard but both are so beautiful & love the small town charm.
You love your islands don’t you Mary! They are pretty cozy!
Susan – what a beautiful china set – How like you to think of us. I wanted to write and tell you I had a “twine” on Sunday for 3 very special girlfriends – my Birthday Babes. They thought I was so clever – tea and wine = twine -but I had to give you the credit for that idea. It was delightful – tea and yummy sandwiches and scones, wine and yummy spinach dip. I shared “our book” with them, so it kind of felt like you were there too. You would have had a marvelous time and you have 3 new girlfriends! So glad you are tucked back into your lovely home.
I almost feel like I was there Beth! Thank you!
I would LOVE to own a tea set ! Thank you for the opportunity to possibly do so with your generous offer. I just found your blog after joining a quilting class this fall. Thank you for your inspirations. Have a blessed Christmas
OH MY GOODNESS!!! How sweet of you! I have individual tea cups but no tea set…How delighted a girlfriend will be to receive this and the chocolate!?! Who could resist!?! So glad you are both home safe and sound and finishing up preparations for Christmas. I also had to let a few things go this year! Also wanting to do things nice and slow so that I can ENJOY the holiday!! It seems to have come up so fast with Thanksgiving being so late in the month. THANK YOU Susan for always thinking of us girlfriends!! You bring so much JOY into our lives not only during the holiday season but all year long. MERRY CHRISTMAS to you and yours!!
Oh my, tea in that pretty set would be divine. Thank you for thinking of us ( and fingers crossed Vanna will pick me). :). Merry Christmas!
What a wonderful gift (gifts) Enjoy your sharing and of course will try your brittle Thank you
What a beautiful tea set! I don’t think I could have left it in Oklahoma City, either! I’m a long-time fan of yours and have recently been re-reading your cookbooks. Such fun!!
Merry Christmas Susan! It’s nice to see you get to slow down a bit and enjoy the season. Thank you so much for thinking of your girlfriends and having such a great give-away. 🙂 The tea set is so lovely and that almond brittle would not last a day at my house! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you Joe and the kitties.
I always look forward to reading your blog!! You inspire me!! I am going to try and make your Christmas jelly to give to my neighbors for Christmas this year!! I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!!
Oh my goodness!!! I was just looking at a vintage teapot at the local antique store today, but I passed it up. I decided it wasn’t really what I wanted. BUT, the set your giving away to one of us lucky girls is BEAUTIFUL!!! Perfect, in fact!! Thanks for the opportunity Susan!
I’m a big believer in holding out for perfection, because you know it’s out there! Only a matter of time!
Merry Christmas! Loved reading your blog and can’t wait to make the brittle! My favorite part was the bright, crimson birds in the white/sepia outdoors . . . yes, I live in California!
This set just jumps off the screen! It is so bright and sparkly and gorgeous! Fingers crossed I am the lucky girlfriend!
Merriest of Christmases to you! I saw you at “Remnants of the Past” in San Luis Obispo and there I purchased your book! I showed it to a friend who just recently retired and now she is thinking of taking a crossing on the Queen Mary 2. Your tea set is so lovely — my most favorite of colors and how very generous of you to offer it as a gift. I would love to display it in my home. Wishing you a lovely Christmas!
I am going to get the ingredients tonight and make that as a present for some very special people I used to work with. Thank you for sharing it.
I gave your book, A Fine Romance, to a dear friend – a fellow Anglophile and a water color artist, too. I hoped it would inspire her to get back into her painting. It worked! She was so moved by your book that she is painting again. I wanted you to know this. Another life touched. Thank you, Susan.
Makes my day Fran!
Wow!! Merry Christmas to you and Joe!! So happy you made it home safely!!
Susan,
I love your posts! You always brighten my day and I’m sure so many others. The tea set is so pretty!
Have a merry Christmas and stay warm.
Thank you Susan for your sweet and generous spirit! Your blog, books and artwork are precious gifts, but an English tea set AND homemade brittle?! MeRrY ChRiStMaS to us!!!
Hi Susan, what a lovely tea set and such a generous act to give it away. One of the girlfriends is going to be ever so happy. Love that you found two Beatrix Potter characters, how lucky. I make peanut brittle all the time for gifts but never almond brittle with chocolate. Must try it, too. Out tree isn’t decorated yet, either, but the shopping and the wrapping and the mailing is done. It seems the faster I go the behinder I get so will take your advice and enjoy what gets done and not worry about the rest. Happy Christmas to you and all those you love, girlfriends, too. Love that you are giving some of the proceeds of “A Fine Romance” to such a worthy cause. What a privilege to know you.
Oh Susan…you ARE an elf ! Giving away such a beautiful set of dishes is SO generous. And like a lot of posts here, while I don’t NEED them, I would love them. I am “dish crazy” as well…and I blame it ( well, blame sounds bad…lets say I attribute it) to my dear, departed Mother. Every year for Christmas I would get a little tea set or set of dishes. One year I got a table and chairs
( suspiciously just like my older sisters set that disappeared in October and showed up under the tree a different color !), and one year I even got an apron to match my mom’s…homemade of course. I think I was the only 8 year old in my town with an apron ! But, you can see where my love of dishes, making life cozy, and homemaking comes from…and is now inspired and encouraged by your wonderful blog and books. Thank you for it all !
I have to share this past weekend with you because I know how much you love old movies, especially at Christmas. My wonderful husband is turning 60….on Christmas Eve ! His favorite movie is “It’s a Wonderful Life” and he works in a bank, and thinks he is George Bailey…and so do I. What to do for a dream of a husband that “doesn’t need anything , don’t get me anything “? I planned a weekend in “Bedford Falls” ! Seneca Falls, NY thinks the town was the inspiration for Bedford Falls….We stayed at a cozy B&B with books and quilts and goodies and a fire…saw the movie on the BIG screen, met Zuzu and Janey , and Donna Reed’s daughter, heard them talk about the film, met the characters who were out on the streets…even Mr. Potter in a wheelchair! There was an author signing books he wrote about the movie….very interesting and I kept wishing YOU were there signing your book ! Walked on the bridge, ate at the restaurant that turns into Maritinis for the weekend, and on Sunday – after a lovely concert by the school children – all the bells in Bedford Falls rang to honor angels. You could arrange a certificate to honor an angel….I arranged for one for my husband…and I told him about it as the bells rang, and then the printer broke and they did not have it ! Just came in the mail…I put it in a silver frame, with a bell, on the mantel….he will be home soon, good friends on the way home for the holidays are stopping for cookies and tea, the fire is going…….BLISS !!! Thank you again, Susan, for being Santa’s Favorite Elf and sharing your gifts with us !
Reading your post has really lifted my spirits today! Thank you for your lovely, inspiring blog posts and for your generous give-away! The tea set is lovely and I imagine how delicious the almond brittle is. Merry Christmas to you & yours!
Love your blog. Gave your book to my sister for Christmas. would love the trees set. Merry Christ’s birthday to you and yours Susan.
Oh that darling little tea set will be perfect when I am channeling my inner Marrianne Dashwood. Thank you for the lovely post Ms. Branch.
I receive your blog in my in-box at work and everyone in the office just heard me exclaim rather loudly, “are you kidding me?!” when I read that you are giving away the beautiful tea set and your yummy brittle! What a wonderful Christmas present that will be for someone (hint-hint Vanna). Even though we don’t have snow in our little area of California, I wish we had the beautiful cardinals here too. I didn’t realize that are such a brilliant red. I’m glad you’re home now to share stories and photos of your holidays with us. It makes me feel all warm and cozy and in the spirit at my desk 🙂 Have a wonderful Christmas and New Years!
Hi to the office Valerie! 🙂
Hello Susan! I’ve thought about you, and have imagined you are having the best time being back in your beautiful Vineyard home preparing for the holidays! What a thoughtful thing for you to do for us! I would love to be in your drawing. Happy Holidays to you and Joe and the darling kitties!!
My first thought when I saw that China was “I’m from Oklahoma…how I wish I had seen these beautiful dishes before Susan!” … And now you are giving them away!I absolutely love those dishes…they would be even more special knowing you had so lovingly rescued them! Even if I don’t win them, the almond toffee sounds wonderful and since I have that cookbook, will definitely give that candy a try! Merry Christmas to you, Joe and your feline family!
Playing the little Christmas elf, are you? What a wonderfully, generous gift to some very lucky person! And what a positively thoughtful gesture in donating part of the proceeds to needy children…a perfect Christmas gift! When I see a cardinal, I always feel like God sent a little blessing my way because they are truly such a beautiful sight! Have fun getting ready for Christmas in your cozy little corner of heaven! xo…Karen
What a lovely, delightful, and thoughtful thing to do! Count me in, oh pleasssse count me in. I adore antique dishes and chocolate even more.
How beautiful! I would love to win the set! I love poking around in antique stores as well and am a “dish” person like you! Glad you made it “home” safe and sound and are enjoying your kitchen! Love all your posts and blog!
Susan, reading your blog is gift enough ! Merry Christmas to you !
Merry Christmas to you and yours!!! I’m excited to be gifting copies of A Fine Romance (autographed by you when you were at Vroman’s in Pasadena) to several friends for Christmas. Thank you for the perfect gift! Love the pictures of the cardinals! While we may not have snow, we have had some spectacular winter sunsets this past week in sunny (and warm – 85 degrees) Southern California. Love the lambs!!! When I was a wee thing many, many years ago, my first stuffed animal was a pink lamb, appropriately named “Pinkie”. I loved the “fur” off her (and her eyes, ears, and a leg, as well as all the stuffin’ out of her). When I turned 18, my dad surprised me with a replica of “Pinkie”. Now, she’s giving love to the “littles” in my life. I’ve had an instant bond with lambs since then. As for the tea set, well – it’s just spiffy after its bubble bath and would have a loved home with me! Thanks for the fun giveaway, but more importantly, the delightful posts! Smiles from Simi Valley 🙂
Oh Sue, We have recently moved into a small little house in the country. I really don’t want to be selfish, but that little tea set would fit perfectly here. Almond toffee is my favorite candy and I can almost taste it. I hope that you pick me. Merry Christmas and Happy to you and Joe. Thank you for all of the happiness that you give to all of us. Joyce
I love the tea set and I am sure the brittle is just yummy!! I really enjoyed seeing all your little treasures you found in your trek across America. I collect China dogs so I know what you mean about honing in on them!!:) Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. I keep A Fine Romance next to my bed and often enjoy reading a passage or just looking at the eye candy before retiring for the evening.
With every picture you post, I get that warm and fuzzy feeling. I get that same feeling when exploring my favorite antique stores, where childhood memories come alive. Thank you for sharing your warmth with all of us. I just love your beautiful, old, vintage, copper candy pot…perfect for making your yummy brittle! Your tea set find is a treasure and when you said how you circled it, I had to laugh because it sounded so familiar. Your cardinals are like natures perfect “ornaments” in a world of white.Thank you for sharing. We wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a perfectly healthy and peaceful New Year full of new wonderful treasures.
Love, love the teacups and teapot! Generous gift from you to us!
Lovely dishes! I love the book! It makes me want to go on a sea voyage. Years ago when we went to Africa a friend said that the distance doesn’t seem as vast when you can get on a plane and arrive in 16 hours. I have just started reading and it is wonderful!
Wow! That is so sweet of you to think about us! This will surely be a wonderful surprise for some lucky girlfriend! Great minds think alike; I had a baked sweet potato for lunch today too! Wishing you, Joe, Girl Kitty, Jack and all the “girlfriends” a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
What a lovely tea set! I Googled the name and the mark. It may have been made in the 1920s or 30s. I would love to have it so I can have a tea party with my friends Stephanie and Karen. We could drink tea, nibble on almond brittle, and talk, talk, talk. I have always loved Perry Como. Growing up in the 50s, I remember his tv show. And there IS no place like home. Good musica choice, Susan.
Barbara
Oh Susan your words and photos are a delight as usual! I was fortunate enough to meet you when you were in Grand Rapids and I’m still thrilled that you signed books for me and a special one for my pen pal too. {we’re nearing our 1 year “anniversary” and thinking your idea of one day meeting in person on Mackinac Island would be so fun.} Thanks for the opportunity to possibly win such a generous gift. Merry Christmas Friend!! Many rich blessings to you and Jo. xo
I once had a children’s book that had the verse at the top of your post in it, as well as verses for all the other months. The book, unfortunately, is lost, but the memory of it came back as soon as I saw the heading for this post. You always seem to hit something that is a treasured memory or a sweet pastime that we share somehow. The lamb collection, the tea set, the “finds” are all things that would make my heart sing, as well. What fun you must have had in those antique stores! Have a Happy Christmas! Our snow in MD is going to gone by the weekend, but the kids and grandkids are coming, so that’s what counts!
You are soooo generous! I would have a hard time giving away such a
beautiful tea set, complete with sugar spoon. It would be so much fun
to serve tea to my lady friends, so hope I win.
Pat in Lebanon
I LOVED A Fine Romance!! I could read it again and again!
Your timing is impeccable… I have been trying to get in the spirit and your blog has helped. Your home looks so festive and cozy yet simple. Love love love almond brittle! If I don’t win your prize almond brittle I will just have to make my own. Thanks again Susan and Merry Christmas!! Hugs from California!
There’s nothing like having Susan home and in her kitchen! She is always cookin’ up something good! :- D Thanks for always thinking of us! Enjoy these special days and may your heart and home be always happy! xo
There’s nothing like having Susan home and in her kitchen! She is always cookin’ up something good! :- D Thanks for always thinking of us! Enjoy these special days and may your heart and home be always happy! xo
I so enjoy your “easing on back” to your home, kitties and friends, etc. The tea set is beautiful. One would be tickled-pink to own it. Naples, FL Public Television just had a Downton Abby High Tea and showed excerpts from Season Four. I just hosted A Christmas Tea for girlfriends using your china from Lenox and my wedding Lenox Tea Cups. The Christmas Season is moving along and your blog is special in keeping me filled with Christmas Joy.
In this hassled and harried world, tea is such a comfort. Your magical tea service is just beautiful! Thank you for thinking of all of us!
Merry Merry Christmas!
Barbara
i love to research on line so i went to yahoo UK and did a search on your china tea set. the company was located in staffordshire county from the late 1880s until 1970. if you care to search images you may see the pattern you have. most of the images give the date of the particular pattern.
Thank you so much for your wonderful post. I live in the South and I have
Enjoyed reading about all the cold you all are having. My daughter who just
Got married a few years ago has ask for different color tea cups for Christmas .The
tea
Set would be a great start for her. Thanks so much for your sweet kindness.
Susan, It’s such a treat to read your posts! I always come away from them with a smile on my face and a song in my heart………..bless you for that! Thank you for the almond brittle recipe. It sounds delicious! I’ll be checking to see who is the lucky winner of the tea set. Merry Christmas to you!