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! ♥
First I must thank you for everything you do!Your amazing and our English connection makes me love you more!Merry Christmas to you.
I feel all cozy reading your blog and getting ready for Christmas. I am getting ready to mail my postcards to Santa Claus, IN something I have been doing for years, thanks to you. My Christmas would be perfect with a beautiful tea set. Thanks for all you do for us, Patty
Susan,
I have just recently learned of your blog after ordering your latest book, A Fine Romance, which I have thoroughly enjoyed. I have told several of my friends about your book and they too have told several of their friends, lots of Amazon orders. After reading your book I went to your website and was amazed at all the information and of course that is where I found out about your blog. Thank you for helping us enjoy the cozy parts of the Northeast winters, the tour of the English countryside and the love of all animals. Thank you for thinking of your ‘girlfriends’ with the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful tea set and almond brittle!
My pleasure Kim, thank YOU for the kind comments!
Wow! I’m sure ALL your girlfriends hope to be the recipient of this lovely gift Susan!! I am happily adding my name to the queue! Happy Christmas! xo, Jacqueline
Merry Christmas Susan!
Thanks for always brightening my day with your emails. They seriously make my day. Merry Christmas to you and Joe.
That life sized gingerbread house is wonderful. What a great idea. I hope I remember to try it next year.
So very beautiful, and so very thoughtful of you to think of us in such a nice way. What lovely gifts for whoever receives them. Thank you so much for your kindness! 🙂
What a beautiful tea set! And it is from my hometown of Oklahoma City!
Oh my I love dishes and would love these 🙂 I make candy every year, peanut brittle and english toffee are my favorite….enjoy being HOME and all of us Thank both you and Joe for coming to our towns(or nearby) and sharing with all of us Girlfriends. I made a new group of Girlfriends when I saw you here in Bakersfield, Ca, my new friend Robin and her penpals now have me in their group of pen pals and 2 of the Girlfriends are from England 🙂
Here you are having lots of Christmas things yet to do, but you are washing “our” tea set and making “our” candy! You are the best. Merry Christmas to you and Joe(and the Kitties, of course).
Happy Days! Tea set is darling and the brittle looks so delicious, I had to save the recipe on my computer -Thank you!
I’ve never had a tea set and the one you’re giving a away is beautiful!
Have great time at lunch!
Merry Christmas, Susan and Joe, too!
Your blog is a special gift to me and all the other girlfriends, not just at Christmas, but every single time we read it. It helps me remember what the really important things are in this world……love, family, friends, HOME!!!
I’ve been a fan of yours for years and many of our family favorite recipes come from your books. Today’s post was a joy to read and the tea set is absolutely gorgeous. You are too generous.
Merry Christmas to you and Joe!
hello and good afternoon Susan and Girlfriends. just got back in to warm up after breaking up the ice on the water tubs and duck pool. we haven’t been above freezing in over a week and they say we are due for more snow and ice this week…. I’m dreaming of a White Christmas….. LOL!! what a lovely tea set, definitely a beautiful teapot. I have a couple of vintage teacups that have roses on them, I love them . but instead of the base like you see on the teacups in the pictures, they have little legs to sit on the cup, the cups are German and very old, I have never seen any like them since. I wonder if you or anyone here have ever seen any like what my teacups look like. well off to go get a couple of buckets out to the hens and thaw out their water tubs so they can drink. looks like a cold winter is settling in around here, we have the blue mountain jays and some colorful finches and nuthatches to watch out the windows, also mourning doves. keeps the cats entertained. have a good day and Merry Christmas to you, Joe and to the Kitties, and to all the Girlfriends… Merry Christmas everyone!! hugs….. 🙂
I love that gingerbread house idea, just the perfect way to decorate the tool shed people see from the road, how cute and how original. may have to head to a party supply place and look for brown tablecloths. Merry Christmas everyone!!! 🙂
Oh I love dishes too! I think its because my people come from the same town as Emma Bridgewater and probably worked in the potteries at least that is the excuse I use for buying dishes.
Whatever it takes! 🙂
ooo I love the idea of almond brittle – I always make peanut!
You write the way I wish I could & like to dream that I do. So, I smile about it (& sometimes have a little weep, too). I’m going to dash right over to Carefree AZ in a day or ten, to see if they still have copies of your book at the tea room you visited in the fall, when I missed you because we’re Snowbirds & only come when it’s snowy elsewhere. Now we’ve arrived for the winter & I’ve made a few of your recipes. All that’s missing are the Tuscan plates, cups, & saucers. And you & Joe. Come back soon, Susan. Your scenes of snow on the Island make me nostalgic. I miss snow. My husband doesn’t. But we do have cardinals! Yay!!
Whether or not you find books, you’ll love the tea shop and the sweet people who work there!
So glad you and Joe are back home! Love your cozy pictures!!!
Oh! How much this tea set reminds me of mine and my husband’s visit to England and all the china factories and shops on our honeymoon trip. I would dearly love this tea set to remind me and to serve our afternoon tea and biscuits. Please enter me for the drawing.
Oh, Susan, what a great post! Gorgeous, picture after picture. Love it!! I am so happy that you found all the sheep and BP people!! It’s just so exciting and fun to collect things. Also very glad to hear about your perspective on enjoying Christmas and taking it slow. Thank you for the reminder, I needed it !! 🙂 It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of it all. I hope you and yours have the most peaceful and enjoyable of Holiday Seasons. xo, mary-one of the happy girlfriends that was lucky enough to attend the first signing for A Fine Romance <3
You make my heart sing Susan! Your blogs are the highlight of my day when I get them. Was so lovely to meet you in San Luis Obispo and I’m glad you arrived home safe and sound and found so many wonderful surprises along the way! We have a recipe for an almond brittle that my mom had and she and my girls used to go down to her home in Ventura and make batches and batches of it with her for family and friends. Now that she’s gone the girls get together every Christmas season and carry on the tradition, love it. Beautiful china you found, I’ll contact my cousins in England and see if they know anything about the name.
Your candy recipe looks delicious – I’m eager to try it. Your goodness in the kitchen and out in the larger world is an inspiration to all of us. Thank you for all you do and the beauty you share with us.
Oh MY! My eyes got so BIG when I read that you were so generous as to offer up that amazing china set and treats to boot! I adore china, like so many women, I just go gaga when I see beautiful china and yours is that for sure! Thank you so much for a chance to win! Merry Christmas too!
Oh my…I stumbled upon your blog and what a treasure you have gifted me already. At first I thought someone was copying your style, and then I realized it’s you, really you. Way cool. Your book is my favorite holiday reference and now I can read your ‘pearls’ often. Feeling much gratitude and joy!!!!
Dear Susan, Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack,
Merry Christmas!!
I love your website . . . and a chance to win that beautiful tea set . . . bonus!! Happy Holidays!
It is so nice to see you back in the kitchen! I’d love to see a picture of your tree when it is decorated. I have angel chimes on my sideboard! I am having so much fun decorating using your ideas. Merry Christmas!
Dear Susan,
Welcome home our Susan, welcome new additions to BP figurines (you are in such a FABULOUS new home!), welcome sweet, glorious sheep, welcome tea set (what a beauty that is!), and know that Jack is sooooooo glad you are home too!
Loved the brittle recipe…could you substitute nuts? I would rather do cashews or pistachios….can’t have almonds unless they are pulverized!
Merry Christmas to you all!
You are so thoughtful. Love the tea set. Merry Christmas! Enjoy every moment…you’re home! Shelley
Merry Christmas!! Reading this made me feel like I was there! I have 4 little granddaughters to have tea parties with!
I love reading your blog, I’m a fairly new follower of it, but I have enjoyed your calendars for several years. I just got my 2014 Susan Branch calendar in, it’s lovely! Merry Christmas!
What a darling tea set…..I love dishes too and have my share. 🙂 The local book store dressed up like a gingerbread house…..love it!
May you and Joe and your entire family be blessed this Christmas season! Thank you for your generous spirit as you share the many joys and blessings of your life!
What Fun to see how much you are enjoying being back home again. And you are very smart to take things slow, even if your tree doesn’t get decorated until Christmas Eve! It’s way too easy to get caught up in the usual holiday rush and that spoils it all! So cute to see Jack helping you out in the kitchen. And how Christmasy the photo is of the cardinals on your bird feeders in the snow! Looks like a Winter Wonderland! Sigh…Love, Love, Love the tea set! I find it hard to believe you’d give away such a beautiful set! How much you must love us all! We will have a very small and quite Christmas this year with just our grown daughter to join us. Our son and daughter-in-law decided to fly away to Florida for their Christmas vacation! Ah well…it keeps things simple, anyway.
Hugs and Blessings,
Laura
Susan,
I was just sitting down to enjoy some quiet time with your book earlier. My sweet little sis had you sign one for me when you were in Bakersfield. The best birthday present I ever got! So glad you’re home safe and enjoying the beauty of snow covered New England. We up here in FAR northern CA just had a beautiful week of the driest snow we’ve seen in decades, putting us fully in the Christmas spirit. I only wish we had the beautiful red cardinal birds like you have…do you know I have never seen one in all my 59 years?!
Merry Christmas to you and yours! May you enjoy the peace of this holy season.
What a pleasure it was to read your post and see all your wonderful treasures! I “collect” antiques and memorabilia, too! Loved your drive through the English countryside! That Almond Brittle looks delicious!
I am keeping my fingers crossed that I am the lucky winner of the beautiful tea set and the yummy brittle, but whomever wins…what a sweet thing for you to do, and I know the lucky person with be SO happy!!!
Hugs,
Cathy
Make my Christmas more beautiful and delicious!
Wow! I love that chocolate covered brittle! Hope I win! Thank you, thank you!
Carol Carney Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Oh my! You do have the BEST giveaways!! Glad to see you back home safely, enjoying the season slowly and touching base with all of us! Merry Christmas!
It is so much fun to see what you r doing. I love everything you write about. Thanks and Merry Christmas
Absolutely in love with tea set and the
candy would be awfully nice with a cup of tea.
I will be making the almond brittle for
Christmas!
I just took a quick break from helping sweet customers with their gift card purchases and last minute projects to pop back into my office to eat my sweet potato for lunch and was delighted to see your post. Kindred spirits, you and I. We even enjoy the same nutritious lunch! The tea set is charming and the candy is a gift that will keep on giving as the lucky winner will get to wear it on her hips throughout the winter. I think if I were lucky enough to win it I would put it in a pretty antique glass jar and keep it forever. It would be like George Washington’s wooden teeth – preserved forever. Candy made by Susan Branch. My family all knows to ask before ever eating candy and cookies from my antique candy jars because most of it has been there for years! ha. Susan your posts are gift enough . As precious and lovely as your thoughtful gifts are, it’s your gift of words and art that we all love the most. Thank you for thinking of us as you shopped. You’re the best!
xoxo Suzanne (no kitty yet)
No kitty yet???
You are so sweet Suzanne… with your big generous heart.
Oh my goodness, Susan! I nearly fell off my chair when you wrote that you were giving away the dishes and candy! What a generous soul you are. And also for donating some of the proceeds from your book. I pray that you are an example for everyone that knows you and reads your blog! 🙂
XO,
Jane From Chicago
Your Christmas spirit is extravagant and beautiful!
My BFF and I love your blog and books. I gave her “It’s a Fine Romance” as an early Christmas gift and she subsequently bought some copies to give to some other friends! Hope you and Joe have the merriest Christmas ever and a happy and healthy New Year!
Merry Christmas Everyone and God Bless Us All!
Treese/Colorado Cowgirl
I agree with the comments about this post being a gift. We can all share your excitement and spirit of giving and that’s the best thing of all (the tea set is really nice too!).
Okay, I have to ask — did you find any good antique stores in OKC? If you can recommend any I’d love to know names, and, yes I do see the irony of me asking you when I live here, but somehow I just think you know these things 🙂 xoxo
I did Janie, there are GREAT ones, really some of the best. Several in a row, big ones, right next to each other. But I’m not sure where we were. We saw them on the way to Cattleman’s Steakhouse in Historic Stockyard City. (Btw, DELICIOUS!) They weren’t very far from there. Maybe you could Google antiques in OKC! You are in for a treat. All the romantic things are there!
This is valuable information, Sue — thank you! I’ve never explored that area and it will be a fun mission for the new year. I’m glad you liked Cattleman’s. When I walk through that door it’s like stepping back in time 50 years, and then I get to eat a good steak — it’s win-win 🙂 xoxo
It sure is … lots of deliciousity on that menu!
Merry Christmas and many blessings to you and your family! Merry
Christmas to “all your girlfriends” too!
Merry Christmas Everyone and God Bless Us All!
OMG!! You got wonderful things while antiquing across the country! I LOVE poking around antique shops too. I’d love to win your lovely tea set and brittle. What a lovely tea party I could have with them. I’m in!!!!
Happy Holidays Susan! Thank you for bringing the Christmas spirit into my inbox today, I love reading about all you do. Would love to win the tea set and the almond brittle – it looks so delicious. If I don’t win, I will still make note of the recipe, I like simple and easy treats! Happy cooking and “nesting”!
Hi Susan, Merry Christmas! I’m so glad for you that you’re home for Christmas! Loved the whole blog post, as usual! :o) I love lambs also! I enjoyed your book so much that I bought one for my 19 year old granddaughter for part of her Christmas. She will be leaving out Christmas afternoon with her other grandparents on a trip to—where else but England! So excited for her. She’s in her second year of college and what a wonderful way to spend part of her Christmas vacation! Have a wonderful warm, cozy evening!
Love, Deborah :o)
What a lovely tea set and the recipe sounds wonderful. Love looking at your pictures of the cardinals in the snow as I am in Florida and alas no snow.
Merry Christmas
I GASPED when I read you were going to give away the tea set! It’s so beautiful, I don’t know how you can part with it.
I love what the bookshop did! I never would have thought of the brown table-cloth idea, but now I may borrow it. What a great way to simulate gingerbread!
Years ago when the kids were little I made giant “candy” by wrapping clear plastic corsage boxes in colored cellophane (I’d read the idea somewhere). Then I made peppermint candies and lollipops out of paper plates & magic markers (using thin dowels for the lollipop sticks) and wrapped each with clear cellophane. I had as much fun making them as the kids did seeing them! Due to the cellophane, they weathered well, too. I also put store-bought giant “candy canes” all along the walkway. It was very cute, if I do say so myself.
Happy holidays to you and Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack! Stay toasty!
It sounds adorable Cheryl!
I would love to receive this tea set to add to my collection. I can’t wait to taste your almond brittle!!! Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!
Merry Christmas sweet Susan! Your home looks so inviting….I bet the kitties are just beside themselves with all you are doing, now that you are home! We are covered with snow here in southern Indiana also…pretty though…..love the tea set and the chocolate almond bark looks divine! I have been baking cookies for a tea my friend Beth is hosting on Friday…..I’m her favorite baker…..enjoy your nesting! Stay warm……”HUG” Mary…”Barefoot Sparkler”
Ooh. How lovely. Your blog inspires me to spread cheer everywhere!! Thank you Susan and a Merry Christmas to you and yours!!!!
How gorgeous everything is! What a wonderful gift to receive, selected and made with love. I so miss seeing cardinals – they don’t come to the southwest – thanks for showing them to me.
You are generous beyond words! I also have a dish “problem” but oh what a sweet tea set. My book club girls would so enjoy this when my turn to be hostess with the mostest comes around!
Such a lovely post Susan and I enjoy reading about your travels and recipes. I just adored the Gingerbread house bookshop. I would love to enter your giveaway please, the almond brittle looks delicious. Merry Christmas.
I am making a brittle too!!! However, I am cheating and using heath chips with some very dark chocolate.
I believe Tuscan is the name of the pattern. The marking is from the china maker. I will research the company for you.
I love your block words, but I don’t have enough to spell anything so…I came up with an idea to use scrabble letters.
Tuscan is indeed the name of the company and later changed to Royal Tuscan. That marking (crown with the wings) has been used since 1947. The number is the pattern, but I saw it listed somewhere as “Green Naples”. I was thinking that the pattern design looked Italian.
It is indeed called “Naples”.
I am wrong. Your cups don’t have any flowers on the outside, so it can’t be Green Naples OR Blenheim.
You’re right, they’re all on the inside!
I have been playing “Nancy Drew” for most of the day with no luck on the china. I did look up a silver tea strainer, which I bought last week. I almost fainted when I saw what similar ones were worth! And here I thought I paid too much.
I need a cup of tea. All this reading has made me thirsty. LOL
Oh I love the tea set! My great aunt, Aunt Lois, gave my sisters and I a china tea cup and saucer every birthday from 12 to 18, and my sister has continued the tradition with my daughter and my sisters’ daughters. So we all have lovely tea cup collections, thanks to Aunt Lois. Thanks for sharing this lovely set with us!
PS I guess I should have capitalized Heath.
Susan, perhaps I was incorrect naming the pattern of the tea set, BLENHEIM. The pattern number is incorrect. Blenheim pattern number is C 5817 and the numbers on yours are different, which look like C 8299. However, it looks very much like it, doesn’t it? No matter……the research as all in fun!
It looks exactly like it. Maybe Blenheim was made after my set — maybe our tea set was there for “trial” and afterwards they named it!
The number of YOUR set pattern is B 7. I don’t know what the gold number written with a gold china marker is.
I did think that your set could have been a sample OR maybe it was only sold in GB. And I see it has a posey not a rose.
Following this post, I did some more research on the pieces.
I believe the china was made during the early to mid 1950’s, maybe a bit later, according to the back stamp. The pattern name (number) is what is written in the gold writing. It seems that while it is almost identical to BLENHEIM, the one you have has what appears, to be small red flowers on it. So, it’s a variation of that pattern, and I think why the numbers are different. I did see that little red flower on other china pieces made by TUSCAN.
By the way, Wedgwood eventually bought out the TUSCAN company. Furthermore, today Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, Royal Albert and Waterford (crystal) are all under the same umbrella. All bought out by Wedgwood recently.
All that being said, it is a lovely set….and quite precious. I would guess replacement/insurance cost to be close to $550 – $700. for the set. So, whomever wins this has a Susan Branch Treasure!
Blenheim is an English estate in Yorkshire and was the birth place of Sir Winston Churchill.
youtube.com/watch?v=MdwU9nGsH7E
Quite the coincidence that it’s all related to England and all that you LOVE! kismet.
bye for now.
Erica
Blenheim — another English miracle! Thank you for the link Erica!
I wonder if his mother named the estate. She was an American of Germanic heritage.
Now I see it was already named when his mother married. I know that the English and the Austrians of Blue Blood lines married.
So many Englanders with Germanic heritage too, esp. royalty. Prince Albert, beloved husband and father of all of Queen Victoria’s nine children was German…
What a beautiful set of china! It’s a wonderful surprise for your fans. Merry Christmas!
So very pretty this little tea set (green is my favorite color, too).
Hoping with fingers crossed it will be me Vanna picks.
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Treasures are lovely to find and lovely to share. Thanks for thinking of us!
Susan…Love reading your posts and I love, love, love nesting, too! Was lucky enough to meet you and Joe in Goshen, IN; that will forever be in my memory bank as one of “My Favorite Things”!!
The candy looks delicious, wouldn’t last long around here, that’s for sure. I looooove tea sets, have several teapots that I have collected since the 70s. Always need another, for a special occasion.
You have written about Gladys Taber in your blogs and I wanted to mention that I read several of her books in the 70s about Stillmeadow and wrote to her…….she replied, and I was so pleased, but I cannot find her letter. Anyway, the first time I checked her books out of the library, but this summer I decided to buy them, and now I’m reading them again, so good for bedtime reading.
Merry Christmas to you and Joe!
OOOOh! This is such a sweet surprise! Thank you Susan for this beautiful and thoughtful giveaway! Merry Christmas! Bobbie
I always look forward to seeing what you have in store for us. The almond brittle is similar to one I make with pecans. I think I will try the almonds this year. I don’t know how you do all that you do. There are not enough hours in the day!!! You are very organized.
Merry Christmas to you from sunny(-ish) SLO! Very gray today but a day made to stay in, write Christmas cards and drink tea. As always, love your blog and keeping up on your life on the East Coast. If I win the tea set they will go to my lovely daughter who loves all things tea-related. Hope you have a white Christmas!
Thank you for your beautiful and inspiring blog. I enjoy it so much!
Merry Christmas to all….and Please enter me in the drawing.
Wow Susan- Thank you for such a beautiful letter- filled with your gorgeous artwork and pictures of your new treasures and of course, darling Jack. Mrs. Tittlemouse is my all time favorite! She will be so happy in your charming home.
And I am definitely going to try to make your chocolate almond brittle- amazing.
It’s snowy and cold here in Chicago but our dog, Sadie, loves to run and dig her nose in the soft snow.
The tea set is so lovely and I know it will end up in the best home. Thank you for thinking of your girl friends. I’m reading and re-reading your Christmas book and just yesterday got The Vineyard Seasons. Feeling warm and cozy right now.
PS I collect lambs and sheep also. 🙂
Merry Merry let the bells ring!
Just reading and being inspired by your blog is gift enough — plus knowing you two are safely home after your long trip! On the other hand, the tea set is absolutely charming — drool!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hope you, Joe, Jack and Girl have a blessed Christmas.
YOU are exactly why I love reading your blog. You have been gone for a long time and what do you do when you get back? You spend your time making a surprise for us! Your joy is a blessing in my day. Merry Christmas!
You are not going to believe this, but I have a small bowl in this same pattern that belonged to my husband’s grandmother. When we met (and eventually married) I inherited not only the bowl but dozens of teacups and saucers, which I collect, along with teapots At the time I thought what are the odds that I would meet a man with so many teacups. Icing on the cake! I would post a picture of the bowl but we are on the road taking A Fine Romance to Florida for Christmas!
Pick me! Pick me! Susan, you should read the BP book about Mrs. Tittlemouse, because you have things in common with her. She is happiest when her spoons are shined up and her house is neat and tidy; then she gives a party for all her friends and they dance and frolic. Sounds like fun, right? Merry Christmas to you and yours! Thank you for making us all happy and homey.
It’s true, I am happiest when my spoons are shiny. No one notices but me, but that’s OK. xo
Well all I can say is “Susan- Susan-Sue”. What a blessing you are. What size tops do your wear? Because you have a VERY big heart.
xxooo Nancy Jo
Dear Susan and family –
Your travel blogs are great, but at the same time – I am so happy for you to be back home.
I have been having a run of good luck lately (two writing contests and a random book drawing – but sadly no Mega Millions) maybe my streak will continue with this darling gift.
holiday blessings
Marcia in Sewell, NJ
Thanks, Susan, for such a warm blog and for the wonderful opportunity of possibly winning such a beautiful tea set–another way you always show your appreciation for the people who enjoy everything you do!
I’m on my second reading of A Fine Romance–surely one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever owned….Merry Christmas!
Thank you for sharing your home and your recipe with your girlfriends. It’s always so nice to slow down and appreciate the things that give us joy. I’d love to win the tea set – so pretty – and I plan on trying that almond brittle. Merry Christmas!
Oh my goodness, I’m keeping my fingers crossed, Vanna! I too LOOOOVE dishes and I actually use them regularly! Oh what a great Birthday gift this would be for me! (wink, wink, Vanna!) Thanks for offering such an awesome give-away!
Susan, I think I have been homesick for you to be home…you felt so far away for so long. I’m so relieved you are home, safe and sound. Please take good care of yourself! Christmas always comes, with or without a tree – so glad you are taking it slow. P. S. Jack looks like he grew while you were gone!
I was homesick too. That’s why it feels so good, and has felt good for over two weeks now! You would think I would get used to it, but not yet!
Every post you write is a gift to your fans, Susan! I love to picture you stirring the candy and looking out at your beautiful cardinals. I know they are happy you are home and they can look in the window and see you in your cozy kitchen. I am making this for Christmas Eve…..Cindy
I, too, love dishes; have several sets, but this one is especially lovely. Listening to the wonderful music when I should be getting dinner. Going to check out the recipe in Vineyard Seasons, and check out some others to make, too, as I need gifts for the neighbors next week. Lots of snow in NH and a White Christmas on the way. So glad you’re home and able to enjoy it all! Merry Christmas!
Oh, and another P. S. Would love to see you in your finery for the Christmas party last Saturday. What did you decide to wear? The symphony gala is coming up…another what shall I wear dilemma….Sigh…
There was a photo of me and a girlfriend on Twitter . . . wear something simple and then gussy it up with a scarf and jewelry and a bright colored lipstick.
Oh…I don’t Tweet. I was wondering about your outfit too.
I’ve just been reading all the comments and it’s too bad everyone can’t win! I just love all the comments and sentiments! Susan, I found you and “A Fine Romance” just after Mother died and you gave me back the way to look at Life with wonder. Thanks so much! You also introduced me to Gladys Taber. I have been reading voraciously, what a lovely person! Again, Thanks! And here’s hoping you, Joe and all your family have a wonderful Christmas!
What a kind thing to say, I am so touched Sharon. Despite everything, it is still a very beautiful world.
Such a lovely post-from the Gingerbread house at the shop, the beautiful cardinals, the gorgeous tea set, the yummy almond brittle to the surprise at the end! I recently purchased your new book through Amazon and I am SO enjoying it! I have ALWAYS wanted to go to England but I doubt I will ever be able to-reading this book almost makes me feel like I am there with you! My friend, Gill, who is from Wales was just here for a cup of Christmas tea, some shortbread and a chat. Living here in Watertown, NY is a long way from home for her! I could listen to her talk forever! I can’t wait to read Portrait of a Marriage!
I always feel so inspired after reading your posts!! Glad you are home again and taking it slow in the days leading up to Christmas. What a lovely and delicious giveway!! I think I could definitely find room for that sweet tea set. Wondering now if I have time to whip up a batch of the brittle to tuck in a package I am getting ready to mail tomorrow. I’d better go check my pantry for ingredients.
I enjoyed your post, taking it slow with Christmas decorating is the way to go. It’s fun to savor the moments and enjoy the process. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
OH Susan, just when I think Christmas can’t get any better, your giveaways are inspiring and full of such heartfelt JOY. Thank you for making our holidays so MERRY and BRIGHT!! May your creative and loving spirit illuminate all your girlfriends throughout the season and 2014!
The sky is gray and gloomy today here in coastal Southern California, but I’m all cozy inside, admiring our colorful tree (which you can see from our kitchen), while I make a pot of homemade turnkey soup. I just sneaked out of the kitchen for a moment to take a peek at the latest blog from you Susan, and that darling antique tea set had me admiring it and constantly scrolling back to take another look. Then I find out by reading further that it’s a GIFT for one of us!!!! Oh please, Santa–let it be little old me who wins it!!!
That sweet potato is making me very hungry indeed, Susan! I love all the treasures you collected during your travels. I, too, am a lover of sheep and lambs and your collection is wonderful! I’m glad you’re safely home, nesting, cooking, playing with Jack and watching the cardinals!
xo
Claudia
Your cardinals inspired me to share with you something I found on the back of Christmas card. From an old Spanish Carol…”A star rose in the sky and glory from on high did fill the night with splendor. Came birds with joyful voice to carol and rejoice with songs so sweet and tender.”
How beautiful! I might just have to paint that one day!
Merry Christmas Susan, I love following your blog.I hope you, Joe, Sweet Jack and Kitty have a beautiful Christmas. I also collect Beatrix Potter critters and feel like you are a kindred spirit. Please enter me in the drawing. All the best in the New Year.
Your blog brings me feelings of warmth and happiness every time I’m here. Thank you!
Susan-
Just had to let you know, while recently attending a Christmas boutique here in the West, that to my delight I found Petey’s cousin Pauley! Pauley was born in Hamburg, Germany but he is dressed just like Petey and am certain that the two of them are related! You will be happy to know, that Pauley’s adoption has just been finalized. The darling green teaset would certainly enhance Pauley’s Adoption Party!
Merry Christmas Everyone
Pat Bates
I am glad you are finally home for the holidays. My daughter Lisa came from Georgia to your book signing at the antique show in California. I think I am getting a signed copy of A Fine Romance for Christmas…really looking forward to reading it. I love your little lamb collection…I have a really sweet crib quilt with lambs that my grandmother made for me when I was born in 1943 and it is very much in the “Susan Branch” style…Merry Christmas
Oh! I remember meeting her! Yes, when they come all the way from Georgia, I notice! Tell her I said hello, Gayle.