First, MUSICA, and second… Hello All💞, and third, I thought I would talk about this thing that’s very popular in Europe (and probably all over) right now called Hygge ~ While we were traveling I would walk into a bookstore in Great 
(great and wonderful) Britain, and invariably, on the front table would be six different books, all with some cozy atmospheric picture of H💟ME on the cover and called some variation of “HYGGE,” which makes sense when you find out Hygge is Danish for “cozy.” So I checked it out and it’s pronounced “HYU-gah,” but I like to pronounce it “HUG,” since the word embraces (so to speak) the entire spirit of Hygge. We’ve had Hygge for a long time around here too, but we’ve called it other things … the way my mom said it was,
And sometimes it’s known as Living the Dream; or Having it All; or Living Large; or The Pursuit of Happiness; and let’s not forget . . .
Oh yeah. It’s all about making a world of Contentment in your own
Unfortunately, we can’t control what goes on in the outside world, which seems to get more ridiculously uncontrollable every day, but we CAN control what goes on in our own homes ~ whether it’s one room, an apartment, or a mansion. Hygge has nothing to do with money, it’s an equal opportunity bringer of joy.
Hygge is a state of mind and a recognizing that what you seek, you already have. I’ve perfected my Hygge in rented rooms and tiny apartments when I was younger. I make it every time we travel in a small train compartment when I bring along my feather pillow, my comfy slippers, a new wonderful book to read, my electric kettle, my favorite cup, my favorite tea, and some homemade cucumber sandwiches. That’s Traveling Hygge, there’s more to it, but today we’re talking bout Hygge In-House. In YOUR house to be exact!
There are a thousand ways to Hygge yourself, and if you’ve been hanging around this Blog long enough, you know that’s mostly what we love to talk about. How to make a Homemade Happy Life . . .
Over the years, I’ve recognized that most of the little things that make life wonderful are found in the same basic framework I use when I give a party: They always seem to appeal to one of the five senses, plus that magical sixth sense, the highly personal one called 
“imagination.” Because the senses are kind of your everything. If they are constantly fed a diet of car exhaust, too many people at the mall, the dentist’s drill, fast food cheeseburgers, news of starving children, killer germs on the loose, and culture collapse, staring into your phone for hours on end, and perhaps a quick frisking at the airport, you are just not going to be happy! SO simple. You might have to go out and experience all of that, but then you can come home, where YOU are in charge. Whew. Look around your home. How does it feel? How does it sound? How does it look? How does it smell? How does it taste? Are there flowers, candles, a cozy throw for you, books, teacups? Is there toast and cheese? Are there pancakes? Is there pretty music that sends you to the moon? Now for number six: see any whimsy, anything that only says YOU in all caps? The question is, does your house FEED you from the well of sweetness?
Hygge thyself!
When it’s all rainy and gray outside . . .
Make a fire or light a candle . . . light many candles!
Lots of you know how much I love houses ~ I have one room where there are only paintings of houses on the walls. Over the years, when I’m out and about, I might see a little candle house, the one with the green roof is my newest in this long slow-growing collection. I found it in Scotland where so many of the real houses are white stucco. What could be more Hygge than a candle IN a house? It’s the Hyggiest! And long, and slow-growing? That’s Hygge too.
Light the candles and then go make yourself a cup of tea, and cuddle up to watch an old movie . . .
This is Audrey Hepburn and Gregory adorable Peck in Roman Holiday. Five Stars! I have a wonderful list of old movies that could keep a person busy and in Hygge City for a whole winter if they wanted!
This is the June page from my new 2017 wall-calendar and just a reminder, because the main thing about Hygge, as you can probably tell by just reading about it, it’s so HEALTHY! It doesn’t weigh you down, it makes you buoyant, up and ready to go! It’s priceless, and it’s a gift you can give yourself because it’s FREE!
Read a book that will light your soul, send your heart to the moon, make tears flow down your cheeks, and inspire you to greatness. Read biographies about your heroes. I love reading about the life of Beatrix Potter because she makes me want to be a better person.💞
I think it’s very Hygge to put dried flowers in her books . . .
Even housekeeping and doing laundry can be Hygge, if you wait a moment and let yourself SEE the before and afters . . . and just how pretty wrinkles and patterns can be, smell the cleanness, feel how organized you must be as you are hanging things to dry, there in the Village of Hygge, where you are in charge of your environment, and your environment is not in charge of you.
And how lovely it is to have your hands slippery in warm water caring for your things, washing them, loving them, making them last forever. You can sing while you do it, and that will make the other people in the house happy too. Really, it will.🎵
Luv-lee bubble baths, where all tensions rooooolllll away in the water . . . play the MUSICA! Because guess who’s in charge? You are!
It’s hard to find words for how wonderful a little petty-pet can be, but I tried.
Put something fun on the calendar, something to look forward to! Hygge is having a dream, and making it come true, even if it takes ten years!
Make a picture wall in your bathroom. It’s zen. No one wants to come out of my bathroom now! See HERE.
Have a Jane Austen tea party and Celebrate her birthday on December 16th, use her books as centerpieces, tell everyone to wear a hat … I have lots of recipes for delicious tea party food! (Just click on which recipe you’d like to have.)
There is also Doing Nothing that is totally Hygge, especially if you find you are doing too much: sleep in! Do it in the coziest flannel jammies you can find. Keep the room cold so you are cuddled under the covers. Moosh the pillow around your ears to keep them warm. Don’t laugh. This can be done! As my mother said, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way!” Put it on your calendar if you have to!
This is Joe (look close to see him), enjoying the Hygginess of it all!
This was the sky over our house this morning, after a few grey days and even some rain. How heavenly is that?
When I was little I used to go outside at night before bed, to look at the stars, and fill my lungs with a big breath of fresh night air to take back to my cozy (Hyggie like crazy) bed with me. I still do it sometimes. The stars, they have secrets, and if you put your ear down close, and listen hard, they will tell you.❤️
My dad used to say, “Be an Elf,” and to me, that’s the same exact same thing as Hygge. It’s a hug. Kind of virtual, but you definitely still feel it. Christmas can be a lonely time for some of us, especially if we’ve dreamed of a certain kind of magical Christmas but have never quite gotten it. I say, this year, think about how you can give it to yourself … a nice big Hygge box of jammies and candles just cannot hurt, with a card signed, “Te Adoro, with all my heart, 💞 your darling Santa, who loves you.” You can wake up, find it all wrapped up under the tree along with the cashmere sweater he left for you, smell the roast chicken he put in the oven, drink the hot chocolate he made for you, count your blessings and be very surprised and thrilled.💝
And another thing this season: Be sure to Shop Small and Buy Local. Because most of the money you spend when you do that, STAYS in your community. That’s a very good thing. Very Hygge. Wear a cute hat when you do it, spread some sunshine. Send love to Tennessee, if you have a little extra, to help the families affected by the terrible wildfires. Send them a little Hygge. And that’s it, oh no, it’s not, I forgot, one other surprise I have left for you! Pretty Hygge too.
This is the Giveaway we have from the new Willard (which just started going out today, it takes about four days for it all to go, so be patient, and if you’re not on our mailing list, you can still sign up) . . . Anyway the prize is a signed copy of the new Heart of the Home, a bird in a gilded cage for your tree, and two dream charms, one is Christmas Joy, and the other (the red one) is Heart of the Home…and all you have to do is leave a comment and you’ll be entered for the drawing! BUT, there’s something else, because Hey, it’s Christmas, and Hey, we’re Hygging today!
Oh yeah, It’s Heart of the Home AGAIN, signed, like the first one, and also, the now out-of-print A Fine Romance, also signed ~ and there’s a little dream charm too, “Girlfriends,” plus, yes, 
it’s the teapot that we bought in an antique store in the Peak District in England that I wrote about in A Fine Romance … I thought, because I have enough teapots, that I would get quadruple the pleasure from this one. First I got to use it, then write about it, then I got to paint it, and now I get to share it. How much more Hygge can you get? Te Adoro, with all my heart, 💞 your darling Santa, who loves you.
So there will be two drawings! Two winners! Just leave a comment, and I’ll announce the winners here on the blog in a week or so, when everyone’s had a chance to enter, and I’ll email them too.
I’m home.🏡 Feeling so lucky! Happy to be here. Sending love to you all.💝
Te adoro, je t’aime with all my heart Susan❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
And I love you back!💞
It is so Hygge to have you back home, Susan! Welcome back to you and Joe! I feel the Christmas spirit surrounding me as it finds its way into every corner of my home. Home…that is where the heart is.
Karen Holly, the perfect name for the season, me too, feeling the spirit! Thank you!
I usually have a calendar on the wall at the door that leaves the kitchen into the garage. I love having a beautiful one. One that inspires me. I look forward to purchasing yours to place there.
Oh thank you, and happy hygging! xoxo
Welcome Home! Your trip sounded so wonderful. Best wishes for a lovely Holiday Season and may God Bless you and yours. Becky in OK
Same to you Becky!
I love your Christmas art! And missed seeing Jack. Welcome Home and Merry Christmas!🎄What a treat this giveaway is to us! Thanks!
Amazing post and definitely upped my joy today.
thanks.
xoxo
So glad you both made it home safely to your furbaby! Traveling is nice, but home is the best place of all.
The understatement of the day. SOOOOO happy. xoxo
Thank you for the marvelous post, and the generous give-away.
Glad you’re signed up for it Wendy!
Welcome Hygge Home!
Merci!
I just love to read your posts. Cozy, hugs…I live for those. One of my precious poodles, Meriweather, passed away today. I hugged her wrapped in a soft blanket and sat in the sunshine with her her last 2 days. She was only 5, but had canine liver disease for all those years. She snuggled with every guest in our home. She made you cozy, welcomed, and warm. I miss her oh so much. My husband and I have cried all day. Our other toy poodle, Orange Blossom, has wandered around looking for her best friend. Her memory will be cherished forever. Before she died I told her to look for some of our past dogs. Find Chocolate Mousse. She will be your best friend in heaven. Sorry this is sad, Susan. Your blog cheered me up, just what I needed tonight. Thank you for this spot of sweetness.
Ohhhhhhhh Peggy, that just hit my heart. I’m so very sorry. Now I’m crying too. It’s okay, crying for our animals is just a very sad part of life. xoxoxoxoxo
Peggy, My heart goes out to you. I am so sorry for the loss of Meriweather. Sending hugs across the miles. I’m glad you have Susan to cheer you xoxoxo
Peggy, so sorry for your loss…..our precious furbabies are our very special friends that make our sad days brighter and hugs are always appreciated. Am hugging our Tucker and saying a prayer for comfort and happy memories of Meriweather for you and your family.💗
What wonderful names you have given your pets! They were lucky to spend time with you. Wishing you peace of mind.
Peggy, all our love goes to you, your sweet man and precious little pup Orange Blossom, what a sad loss. Meriweather had a wonderful Mom in you who loved her and made her last days so gentle, she was truly blessed and is in heaven with Chocolate Mousse sharing their fond memories of their wonderful lives in your happy home. My heart is hugging you!
Peggy, I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet Meriweather and for all of the sadness in your heart.
So sorry Peggy, I’ll bet my Goldens Gretchen and Dixie will welcome Meriweather and keep her in good company. Hugs to you and Orange Blossom, Janet
Bless your heart for it needs extra tending to right now. A place in your heart is always reserved for Meriweather. The “INVISIBLE LINE” at the bottom of every animal adoption paper is “There will be joy to fill your lives and in the end sadness to drain your tears and bring you to your knees.” Good thing that “invisible line” in our contracts to adopt animals can’t be read and that the joy of a new furry is for future joys…so many joys to look forward to that we don’t think of “how long will there be petting time before tears”. I have cried your tears and felt my heart ache so much that it is physically painful…loss of our beloved pets…a chapter that does thankfully pass and open our hearts to the memories and love given both ways.
Hugs to you and your husband as you journey down this unwanted path. AND! You are a FABulous “namer of pets”…Susan must be jealous…Girl Kitty, Man Kitty and SHE is the creative writer!!? She has readily accepted her defective cat-naming gene!
Meriweather, Chocolate Mousse, Orange Blossom…divine perfection!!
ADOPT AND RENAME ME NOW…call me…I will pack and be ready ASAP. 🙂
Lovely words, and Yes, I am a hideous cat namer! I would like to be named by you too Peggy!
Thank you, Susan. My husband and I cried ourselves to sleep last night hugging Orange Blossom between us.
Thank you to ALL who wrote such wonderful things. How precious we girlfriends are! Thank you for liking my pet names. LOL. We have had cats: Pumpkin (adopted on Halloween), Pepper (she was black), Molly Adorabelle (she was a magnificent Maine Coon who needed a fancy name. We have had schnauzers: Heidi (Christmas pup named after one of my favorite books), Gretel (another schnauzer adopted from a farm but we called her Tank because she was built like one), Chocolate Mousse ( a tiny toy poodle, was different shades of brown and a Hershey Kiss nose. She was purchased for my mother-in-law who was in need of a pet, but then decided she couldn’t take care of her. So we flew her back to us with my daughter and she became ours. I was doing a lot of baking and cooking those years. She was with us on many long boating adventures.) Orange Blossom is a tiny toy poodle named for the area where she was bred, Lake Whales, in the middle of orange grove country in Florida. Meriweather another toy poodle was named for the chubby blue fairy, even tho she was a chubby, brown puppy. Every pet has had something fun or wild about them. Or maybe that’s just living with us. Thank you again, everyone.
Faye, I’d have to know you better to decide on adoption and to come up with a name. lol
Susan, for you…perhaps…Snuggles.
xoxo Peggy, too darn cute!
Bless you Peggy…so very sorry you lost your baby, so sad…hugs for you !
You left England just before we arrived.
I think I felt some vibes left over from your picnic at Stourhead!
I would imagine you would! It was a whole lotta love over there!
Welcome home! I love reading your blog, your books, Willard…..you make my day better. Thank you and God Bless you and Joe. Happy Holidays!!
Happy to have you here!
I’m sure you are happy to be back. That picture of that blue sky over your house is lovely. We even get those down here in Texas in the winter. My daughter is away at college in Oklahoma and I took a picture of the sky the other morning and sent it to her. It was just a blue screen. I said, “It’s back!” 🙂
Love Joe’s feet peeking up on the chair in that picture of him by the fire. 🙂
He was Hygging! xoxo
What a feel good post, something we all need lately. Happy to have you back home. Thanks for the message.
My pleasure Phyllis! It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! xoxo
Welcome home, Susan and Joe! I imagine it’s even better after you’ve been away so long. I’ve been walking around mine recently just taking it all in, being thankful for the warmth of it, perfect for us after being here 40 some years. I’ve started decorating for Christmas today! Thanks for reminding me to get out the Christmas books!
Have fun Lin!
Funny how what goes around, comes around. What I mean is, I read a book on my Kindle about Hygge and couldn’t stop thinking “This is SO Susan Branch!” I am so glad you are home, safe and sound. Even though you kept in touch via the internet, it just isn’t the same. Glad you and Joe are back Stateside.
Nope it’s not the same. It helps to have what inspires you in the room with you! 😀 Thank you Linda!
Wonderful words, as always…
Dearest Susan,
Welcome home after your wonderful, romantic trip! My husband and I honeymooned in Edinburgh and it was lovely reading your posts from your trip. It brought back so many wonderful memories!
Happy Hygge!
Cheryl
Lucky you!!! What a perfect choice for a honeymoon. I was stunned by the beauty of Edinburgh. I didn’t know. I’d heard people liked it, but it was amazing.
I truly am very lucky…..very blessed…..to have been able to visit stunning Scotland with my own Wonderful Map Man, too! Happy Holidays to you, Joe and Jack!
Amazing country! Much different than I had imagined!
Hi Susan so glad you and Joe made it home safe and sound. I am loving this blog, and all of your warm and fuzzies (Hygge). Can’t wait for the new Willard, Merry Christmas, Merry everything.
Merry everything right back to you Tricia!
I have been looking for that book since I seen it at a friends house over Thanksgiving, Amazon doesn’t have your newest book. It would be so good and hygge if I won it.
You might win anyway and that would be perfect! xoxo
I guess I lied , I went back to Amazon and now I found it LOL
Your books are so charming and comforting and hygge
Good! Thank you Janice! LOL!
Susan
So glad you are back home safe and sound for the holidays. I’m waiting patiently for your latest Willard. I love, love, love, love the little and the simple things in life. Perhaps it’s because I’m from a small town and that’s the way I was raised, but I’m proud to say my children also enjoy the simple things with me. Thanks for providing us an outlet to share with others who long for a simpler time. God Bless.
I think most of us do, no matter where we’re from, it’s the little things that make life sweet! xoxo
It’s always such a pleasure to open my computer and find that you have posted something new. As I’ve decorated for Christmas and made cookies for the church bake sale, your post expanded on what makes me cozy.
Look at you. So on top of it! I have to get myself in gear this weekend! We need a tree!
It’s just so Hygge reading your blog! Glad you’re safely back home and really looking forward to receiving the Willard.
Me too Pam, it’s heaven here. xoxo
As others have said – glad you’re safely back home. I hope you’ll soon tell us how Jack acted when he first saw you.
He was perfect. He smelled my hand, then my arm, up the forearm, then he rolled over on his back, and made a little meow. And that was IT. We were back. He has shown love, which is saying something for a cat, sleeps with me every night. All is well in catland!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU, CAN’T WAIT TO SEE HOW YOUR HOUSE IS DECORATED.
We have a little bit done. The house is clean. The kitchen windows have been cleaned, it’s getting sparkly, but this week, between moderating comments, I’ll be doing the fun stuff!
I hope that everyone finds at least a few special moments of Joy and Peace this season. It may not be that easy for many, but practicing being an elf seems like one good way to get to those feelings. Thanks for the starter kit and all the suggestions! Marty
Yes, while being an elf, your mind is off all the non-elf-type things! xoxo
12-1-16
Dear Dear Susan and Joe –
Just a few thoughts.
I was so very fortunate to be able to Hygge up my little home this past summer. I have been collecting pictures of birds, (one of my spirit animals). All of those pix in one room now. Photos, and prints, and original pen and ink, and charcoal and wax pencil. Cardinal, Blue Jay, Chickadee, Goldfinch, Nuthatch. Heaven.
An enexpected windfall enabled me to have the bathroom ofmy dreams – well for this house anyway.
My two sisters and I are planning a 90th birthday celebration in January for my dear mother, with whom I reside.
You were greatly missed -looking forward to the next book which I am certain will come from your recent trip.
be well, life is good
Marcia from Sewell
How wonderful, all the birds! Hugs to your mom! Thank you Marcia!
Welcome home, Susan!
Thank you Kathy!
You’re right, it is the small things that make you feel better! Thank you for this reminder.
On a day when things aren’t going well, if I just go outside and find a flower and put it in a vase, almost everything feels better. If it’s really bad? Bubble bath. xoxo
Welcome Home! I have been wrapping myself in old movies too. Yesterday I watched Chritmas in Conn. and tonight at 8 pm is It Happened On Fifth Avenue.
Turner Movie Channel. Two ofmy favorite movies. Charlie Brown is on too, so I will be cuddling with the kiddies, popcorn too. Of course one of the kids is 17 and looking at colleges. We are going on a twilight tour tomorrow night. I am so excited for Emily to be accepted. Biology world here she comes!
I love reading your blogs, it buts me in my hygge place.
I think Hygge can be a noun, an adverb, an adjective .. that’s what I love about it! xoxo Love TMC! Check out Netflix if you haven’t already, there’s a lot more!
Talking about Netflix, have you had time to watch The Crown?
You are going to love it.. My girls have fallen in love with the old movies through Netflix.
Just watched the first episode last night! Saving and savoring it!
I am so glad you are enjoying it too…
Nice Post Susan, thank you for all the HYGEE, Best thing to pass around. Glad you are home, I like it when everyone I care about is at home.
A nice giveaway which I won’t turn down if it comes my way.
Your such a good girl.
HYGEE,
Nancy Jo
Thank you Nancy Jo! Who doesn’t love being called a good girl. Pat pat. Love it. xoxoxo
Such a wonderful, cozy post..love it…welcome home!!!!!!
Thank you Jody, so happy to be here!
Susan:
YOU make my heart sing! What a beautiful blog you just wrote. So happy
you are home safe and sound but with wonderful memories of your trip.
Your outlook on life is just what we all need. Thank you so much
for sharing. I am looking forward to WILLARD.
Connie from Rochester, Michigan
Coming soon Connie! xoxo
Oh I loved this post! I’ve never heard of Hygge before, but I will definitely be incorporating that into my tiny, cozy home! I would love to win the books and teapot! I collect tea cups, so this would be a perfect addition to my collection. You have to have teapots for tea cups, right?! 🙂
That is so right Johanna! 😀
Oh how I would love to win!
You have a MUCH better chance than the lottery! Course, also not 4 million!
Welcome home Dear Friend, so nice to see a Willard in my mailbox and this lovely post as well. And, as the lyrics go..”Sing a song of gladness and cheer! For the time of Christmas is here!” (Scrooge the musical). Sending peace, love and happiness to all 🙂
Thanks Jacqui! xoxo
I only wish that while reading your blog post I was snuggled on my sofa in front of the fire with my mama’s quilt and a cup of tea instead of at my desk at work. I may read it again after I get home this evening. Thank you for bringing your unique flavor of Hygge to our little worlds. Welcome home to you and Joe! Thanks for taking us all with you on your amazing journey!
Thank you Beth! xoxo
Loverly to hear from you…..I think last year I asked you if you have ever seen “The Holly and the Ivy”, a British movie, which is very hard to find….I can email you a copy of the movie, if you give me a good address to send it to…..you will enjoy the Hygge-ness of this 1940’s black and white film, with all of these wonderful British actors…..I had our PBS “Downton Abbey” marathon on, like a radio show, over last weekend – while candles were lit, doggie was asleep at my feet, and housey things were accomplished, stopping once in a while to see a scene that I remembered I loved….like when Lady Mary is singing “If You Were the Only Boy in the World” to the wounded soldiers and Matthew walks in….so touching….thank you for reminding us of the really, truly good things in our lives….sharing them and ourselves with those we know well, and those we know are in need…..happy homecoming to you…..I will write and put pictures up on my calendar as we approach March 31st, my visit to London with 3 girlfriends….love to you….
I would love that Regina! Can you really email it… try [email protected]/~susanbs3/susanbranch/. How fun to look forward to March! xoxo
Wonderful post 🙂
Welcome home! Today’s post is just what we need in this holiday season. Thanks for your inspiring words.
Dearest Susan – so glad you made it home safe and sound. The post was so uplifting. Sending lots of love your way from the piney woods of East Texas.
Well hey there Kathy H. Great to hear from another east Texan. Whereabouts are you? We have a small goat farm out close to Jefferson. By Lake o’ the Pines. Isn’t Susan just the absolute Best!
Welcome home, Susan. So glad to have you home again. It’s lovely to trip, ( and I love to live in England and Scotland through you) but so nice to come back home. I’m an old granny, 81 just celebrated, and filling our home with all sorts of Christmas HYGGE . We have a big far flung family and all come home for Christmas, and some stay for days. I loved your post, such a feel good message, and that’s what we need right now.
Luv-lee, so much to look forward to!
This kind of post is exactly why we LOVE Susan branch! welcome home!
YES!! YES!! YES!!
Such a lovely “Hygge” blog to us. So glad you are home to enjoy Christmas and the new year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Susan in Atlanta
Welcome home! Love reading your Willard and blog.
So happy to read a new blog.So happy you are home safe and sound.
Oh there can never be too much cozy, can there? A crisp walk followed by a warm shower and hot tea. Heaven! Curled up on the couch with a fleecey blanket, good book and a fire. Pure bliss! Oh love those hygge kind of moments for sure!!
And getting to sit at my desk – with my comfy pillow in back of my office chair reading anything shared by my dear friend Susan. Beyond delightful!
Blessings to you kind Lady. xoxo
Thank you Carrie! xoxo
Haven’t received Willard yet, but looking forward to it! So happy you’re home so you can keep blogging. You were missed!
Happy to be here!
A cuppa tea, your book and that wonderful bubble bath! Welcome home Girlfriend.
Thank you Mary Ann!
Wow, I got Willard today and a new long blog post from you. Christmas came early for me. I read them both once, but I will be printing them (in color) and rereading the again, then saving them for future rereading! So glad you are home and hoping and praying for better future for all of us.
xoxo Njean!
A double whammy . . . Willard and a new blog. Smiles!
Must be December!
Hygge ~ a lovely new word to learn! I find your blog to be uber-hygge all the time. And I couldn’t agree more about turning our homes into cozy nests that nurture our souls and the souls of all who live or enter there.
Please enter me into the contests. I’d love to win anything ‘Susan Branch.’ Thank you!
Thank you sweet Marigold!
or should I say . . . hygge!!!
Welcome Home Susan and Joe! You were missed for sure but I think by Jack most of all. Looks like he’s not letting you out of his sight just to make sure you aren’t getting away again. 😉 Enjoy or rather Hygge (love this too!) through the Holidays!
He really doesn’t! xoxo Thank you Joy!
Oh wow, just finished and feel renewed. I will return to read this over and over! It’s like the very coziest comfort food
Happy to hear from you Rosemary!
Oh, dear Susan, thank you for introducing us to a lovely new word❤️I think I’ll pronounce it “huuuug”….because a long hug is better than a short one. Whatever would we do without you? I count you as one of the blessings in my life! Huuuugs❤️
PS…love Joe’s red socks!
Love your pronunciation! xoxo
I love reading your blog. It does not matter what the topic – I just enjoy the connection with someone so creative. Thank you!
So nice to hear that Jere! xoxo
It’s wonderful to have you home! Amazingly, just this morning I gave my daughter (who is juggling being mom, wife, professional, Christmas elf extraordinaire) the not living faster than your guardian angel can fly advice. I searched out the picture in your Girlfriends book, and then lo and behold here it is on your blog! I’m going to frame it for my girl. Being a caregiver for my husband, I spend time every day creating little moments of peace and contentment for myself. A cup of tea, some knitting in front of the fire, lovely music or an audible book can do miraculous things for the soul. Thank you, dear one, for your beautiful and inspirational heart!
Thank you dear Rosanne! Sending love. xoxo
Susan, your are so right about the hygge! It is not things, but a feeling of peacefulness and contentment. Last night I began decorating for Christmas; will just do one room at a time when I come home from school each day. The greatest joy last night – the candles in the windows and their light reflecting throughout out home, light against the stark darkness of the night. I thought about the families in Tennessee and as one woman said, “I don’t even own a toothbrush.” To be in our home with candles in the window – hygge – something I too often take for granted. I hope everyone will think of others this Christmas and help them to have a sense of hygge. Christmas blessings to you, Joe and the kitties.
So true, me too, been thinking about what a profound loss, and for some reason, it just makes it worse, being this time of year. Thank you Ann
hello, sign me up.. glad you’re back safe..
Happy Holidays
Blessings, Rosemary
Thank you Rosemary!
Santa Susan, I’ve been on the Nice list this year!!! 🙂
Kathy
Like always!
Welcome home to you and Joe. I wish you a very happy holiday season with good health in the new year. Merry Holidays!!
Thank you Eileen!
Susan,
Welcome Home to you and Joe. So fun to follow along on Twitter. I hope you do write another book, they are fabulous and give me a big Hygge. I was so happy to get Willard and read the blog today. It has been a rough couple of months and while trying to find the joy in each day, I sometimes feel sorry for myself. It could be so much worse and this too shall pass. My joy and hygge today was the blog post and Willard, they just put a huge smile on my face and I could feel the hug coming through.
I hope your holidays are beautiful and you realize how you touch so many people through your writings, posts, products and Willard.
Thank you for sharing my Twitter posts on the book reviews I did on my blog! You put a smile on my face today and I thank you! Hope you feel hygge’s from us to you too.
Terri
Thank you Terri, you are so sweet to say that. I do feel your Hygges! Lucky lucky lucky. Stay strong.xoxo
Welcome home, Susan and Joe. That’s hygge enough for me ~ the thought of you two snuggled up in your Vineyard home enjoying the holidays together. 😉
Love the thoughts in this post, especially my favorite of all quotes ~ Hyacinths for the Soul! It is how my husband and I have lived our life together. The summer we married, my husband was in graduate school, and I was employed as a teacher. We took a portion of our savings that summer and purchased a sailboat. We christened our Catalina 22, “Hyacinths For The Soul” after Saadi’s poem. Our “Hyacinths” provided years of pleasure. As we grow old together, we continue to cherish the extras of life as food for our souls.
Texas is crisp and cool now, so we too, can sit by a cozy fire. I’m busy adding festive touches to our home for the holidays. It’s one of my favorite parts of the season ~ getting to decorate our home with special things that we have collected over the 40+ years of our marriage. Tartan, MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check, Mary Englebreit Christmas tins, and a stack of Susan Branch’s cookbooks to help me with entertaining. Our home is full of hygge!
Thank you for this post full of hygge!
Our last trip was a hyacinth, truly, you wonder, can we do it? And then you say, oh the heck with it! It’s the Hygge, Life is Short, mentality and somehow, at least so far, it’s always worked out okay!
I’m soooo happy that both of you are home. Enjoyed reading todays post and the new Willard. Just about finished reading THE ISLE OF DREAMS, and loving it! Enjoy your holidays and looking forward to new blogs.
Thank you Marcia!
Darling girl–a whole new level of HUGGZ. Nestle in, I’m sure you two are pinching yourselves. Home, there’s nothing like it. I’m finding new ways to cook, with my stove still dead as a doornail (whatever that means). This is not the month to go without an oven. Your sugar cookies (Annie’s) and your grandma’s nut cookies and, and, and are going to have to wait a big. Hug each other for me. Love you to the moon! xo
LOL, I know, but I guess a doornail MUST be pretty dead! Hope it gets fixed fast! Love you to the Moon too JoEllen!!! xoxo
Just what I needed – you bring me right back down to earth and say “Get on with it! Enjoy the things you can control.” This is, indeed, a magic season! It’s time to clear the clutter, decorate, bake cookies, and share the love!!
I do so hope there will be a book about your recent trip. I know you shared many of your wonderful experiences on Twitter, (and we all loved it!!) but a book would be such a joy! I’m sure I’m not the only one who really wants to add another volume to the three diaries that are already on the shelf. Fingers crossed!!
Can hardly wait to see your Christmas tree!! Have a great December! XOXO!!
Thank you Sandra!
Thank you for all you do for us. Always so happy to get mail/email that says SUSAN BRANCH. You are one of the joys in my life.
Love having you here Michele!
Hi…
So glad you are home safe and sound. I like rereading my very old country living magazines at Christmastime, savoring your special recipes, and making our lovely little home all ready for our family and friends. My husband likes to add that I’m channeling my inner Susan Branch to make the holidays wonderful for all of us. Thank you for all your wonderful ideas!!
Blessings for a wonderful holiday season to you and Joe!
Nancy
I keep a couple of my old “really good” inspiration-that-works-every-time, magazines in with the decorations, so I can flip through them and get insta-spirit! Hugs to your husband! xoxo
Hi Susan,
Happy December 1st! Have a wonderful holiday season!
So lovely and warm. Our homes are our haven! Thank you for the lovely reminder and the homey tips!
Oh Susan, the joy you spread could not be counted in a million years. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making this world livable.
Thank you Lori … and you help make mine livable too. xoxo
Your posts are a dose of lovely! Welcome home and enjoy preparing for the holidays! xoxo, Pam in Michign
Thanks Pam!
Oh, Susan! I’m so very happy you are back. It’s Jane who came from Washington state to SLO with her darling friend, Sue, and we met and hugged and had our photo taken with Diana. We were the girls on the 30-hr train ride, remember? And, yesterday, Sue came to my house on Whidbey Island and we made darling sugar cookies with sparkly green sprinkles and sheep with white swirled frosting and wreaths around their necks. And, now, she’s gone and I was so very sad after she’d spent the night and we stayed in our jammies until after noon to frost and laugh and eat and chat. She had just boarded the ferry to the mainland and I got the email of a new blog post and willard and she got to read them as she traveled home. It was a lovely ending to the perfect couple of hygge days. So now I’m sipping Yorkshire Gold, munching on a green tree, and thinking of how very much I love you. Welcome, welcome home, sweet friend!
I DO remember, Jane!!! I have to get up in your neck of the world someday! Love your Girl Party…send love to Sue when to talk to her! And thank you xoxo We are thrilled to be here.❤️
So glad you’re home, Susan! Though I don’t know you personally, I sure feel like you’re a friend. Thank you for including us on your lovely trip. Looking forward to hearing all about it! Your posts are always inspirational. Thank you!
I feel the same way Kathy, kindred spirits! Thank you back!
Hygge, what a wonderful concept. I must hygge my home! I once saw a sign that read, “Cherish the small things ” Sums up my outlook exactly! Here’s wishing you, Joe and Jack a wonderful Christmas!❤️❤️❤️❤️
Same to you Sharon!
Thank you for the blog today plus a Willard….we are all blessed! So enjoyed your trip and know you are glad to be home.
What a lovely post, thank you.
I was thinking of you yesterday…TCM had on some of the old Christmas movies that make for great background noises while creating “Domesticity”.
Then today watched the new movie “Christmas Coat of Many Colors”….beautiful music for the beginning of the Christmas season.
Little things that bring joy to my world.
I’m right with you, nothing like those old movies to put Christmas into the heart and into the Hygge House!
A Willard and a blog post all in one day? Red letter day for sure!!! Beautiful post, beautiful sentiments, beautiful YOU!!! I don’t know what anyone else creates that could be more of what we all need. Seriously, are there blog awards? I am researching it! I LOVE the new (to me) word HYGGE and it is sooo you! Plus, I went up to Wishful Thinking in Mckinney, TX to see Patty Streber. She carries your entire line!!! The store is just gorgeous and its a good place for Christmas shopping. And Patty is such a doll. She feels just like a long time friend even if you have never met her before. Any TEXAS GIRLFRIENDS should try to stop in into her darling store. Just a few steps off the main square.
Christmas music is playing and candles are burning and the fire is lit and my Susan Branch Organic Earl Grey with wildflowers (it is soo good and a very nice quality of tea:)) is steaming in my mug, spicy kale and chicken soup bubbling on the stove and my hubby is on his way home from a business trip and it finally cooled off here AND YOU Nothing more HYGGE, if you ask me:)
Thank you for all the beautiful gifts you have given us with a Willard and a post today. I feel very lucky to have you in my life xoxo
And my favorite pic from twitter of your table in front of the fire w sugared fruit I called my mom after I saw it on twitter and sent it to her and said this is how I remember you and it makes me feel so loved inside xoxo Thank you, Susan
You are so welcome. That old fashioned thing always makes me feel good too. xo
I’ve heard about Patty’s store. I’ve even seen pictures. Looks adorable! I need to go there next time! Lucky you’re so close! Your house sounds perfect! I’m going to start chicken stock this morning. Why? Because I love it bubbling away on the stove and haven’t done it in 3 months!!! Then I’ll decide what to do with it! Love you Charissa!
Hugge, what a heartwarming term. May we all have peace and forgiveness this holiday seasson. Welcome back to the states and Merry Christmas to you, Joe and your furry friend!
Thank you Patricia!
Dear, dear Susan,
Thanking you so much for the reference to the Tennessee wildfire this week. Just 1 1/2 hour drive from where we live, and we have taken many trips to the Gatlinburg area through the years; many happy memories. Over 700 structures have been destroyed, and over 17,000 acres have been burned. This is such a loss to the economy of that area which is greatly dependent on tourism. Now, places that would house tourists have been lost to fire, roads are still closed in areas where authorities are still checking about conditions, and there are many who are still waiting to hear from loved ones.
So yes, we are in need of that Hygge here! Having a dinner party on Friday night! Perhaps we will find common ground for good conversation, maybe even a laugh or two.
You always come up with the perfect giveaways! There will be two very happy winners!
Sending you love and hugs, as always!
xo Nellie
Oh it breaks my heart to think of those families and all they’ve lost. Just terrible. Light lots of candles Nellie, it always helps with common ground conversation. xoxo love and hugs to you and yours.
Hi Susan – I have a question – what calendar of yours is “bossy” for each month? Meaning in January it gives me a suggestion every day for January to do – like clean out a closet – light a white candle – plant a bulb to watch grow in your home- watch a certain cozy movie – make bread etc. – make hot chocolate after your walk in the snow
Feb – watch a romantic movie – make your own valentine – make a chocolate dessert – etc.
March – force forsythia branches – plan your st. patricks meal – buy a shamrock plant etc.
April – plant a pot of primroses outside your front door, color easter eggs, plan your easter brunch etc.
may – plant your window boxes – plan your mayday flower bouquets – plan your memorial day picnic
June – etc.
July – etc.
You get the idea – I would love a detailed calendar like this each year that gives me suggestions to do for the months and seasons. Do you have one? I’ve never bought a calendar from you and think you have on like this?
Thanks Susan! Love your blog!!! xoxoxoxo
A “bossy calendar” … Hmmmm. That’s so funny because sometimes when I’m telling people about Hygge or something like that I DO wonder if they think I’m being bossy! My calendars do always include things like recipes, or spring cleaning, or special stuff for the Holidays, with art to go with it, maybe not exactly a list of TO DO things, but some inspiration, I hope. xoxo
Thank you for all of your wonderful sweet inspirations. I look forward to your blogs, & more photos of Your trip to England. Merry Christmas, Patty
Welcome home! What a fabulous trip, especially crossing the Atlantic – twice. Glad you are home.
Hi Susan, Joe, Jack and all Girlfriends,
So happy you guys are home safe and sound! Jack seems very happy too!
This Willard and this blog reminded me of how long I have been receiving them and loving each one! I know I speak for all girlfriends when I say how wonderful they make me feel❤
I really like the contests too as we are all happy for whoever wins
This Christmas I am thankful for you Susan and all that you give to all of us❤
Also the cranberry tea cake sounds and looks delic!
Happy Holidays to all!
Love and peace,
Doreen
You’ll love that cake Doreen! I’m so excited to share it with everyone! Happy Holidays to you too, Love, and Peace on earth. xoxo
Yay, Susan! I love hygge and I’ve been fascinated with the word and concept since I heard about it. I love this post! You are the queen of hygge!
If you have time click over to my blog because I made a video of my Whoville tree and Timothy (our new kitty – I took your advice) is in it, too.
Love love love!
Timothy! Heaven, but Noah? HeavenLY! adorable!
Can’t wait to read the details of your trip!
I shop local and small and my home is my Hyyge. Susan you have been my inspiration and I thank you🏡❤️🏡
How right you are Susan !……our home should be our sanctuary, “cocoon of comfort”, we are in complete control here……it should contain specific pleasures for each of our senses: sight, sound, smell, touch and taste ! Thank you for all you do to inspire us to live life with a positive outlook and emphasis on the “little things” which are actually as you point out not so little after all !
You are so right, as it turns out, the little things are actually the big things! 😀
I would love to win your giveaway! Hope you have a wonderful Christmas season!
God bless, Kathy in Illinois
Hi Susan,
What a synchronous post! I just bought a book called “The Cozy Life”, which is all about hygge. The book has such a familiar feel, because it’s something that I try to keep in my life. You have taught me alot about it through the years! I bought Heart of the Home when it first came out ( hard to believe it was 30 years ago), and learned so much about coziness and the home arts! I have many of your books, and follow your blog, and I want to thank you for all that you have given me. Be well!
XOXOX,
Ann
Ohhh, thank you back Ann!
Welcome back to your “only little home” as my daughter used to call ours. It was a delight to slip into this long, last post of yours — the equivalent of a bubble bath for me! Thanks for the refreshment.
Love to have you here, and love your name!
Welcome home, Susan! We (your readers and Jack!) are happy you’re safely home again, and we’re looking forward to hearing about your wonderful trip. Thank you for sharing.
What a lovely post, Susan. I hygged in the kitchen today making shortbreads and peanut brittle to share with two friends I’m having Christmas lunch with tomorrow. I finished my cards and letters and off they went yesterday winging their way across the country. Now I must buckle down and get my house ready for Christmas. We have a new little being to share Christmas with this year. Her name is Daisy (well it was Socks but we renamed her). She adopted us over the course of the summer and fall. She waltzed into our hearts and now she rules the roost. She stretches out on the couch as if she bought and paid for it, lol. We thought she was a stray but she belongs to a neighbour around the corner who lets her roam free. She adopted her this past summer as a companion cat for her cat and dog. Don’t think that worked out too well. We are co-parenting for now but our neighbour is willing to give us full custody. She was well loved in her former life and is sweet and affectionate. She lived in an apartment. For many years. We had our kitty Patches for 19 years and she has been gone for seven years so it is time. Your give-away teapot is so pretty. Thank you for spoiling all the girlfriends. Hugs, Elaine
Love your new-kitty story. Meant to be! xoxo Thank you Elaine, happy to hear from you!
Lovely post and it must be wonderful to be home. Love the idea of giving yourself a magical Christmas because for some it can be a difficult time x
Yes it can, I always think of it. xoxo
Oh HAPPY DAY! A Willard AND pictures from home, sweet home! You made my day. Love you, Susan!!
wb
Love Hygge!! And, try to live it every day – will have to remember it! So glad you are home and that you had such a great time. I have been following closely. We live in Nebraska, but are going to spend Christmas in Vermont with our daughter – cannot wait. What could be more Hygge than Christmas in Vermont?? Looking forward to my Willard!! Hugs!
Nothing! Christmas in Vermont! You know, they have horses and carriages there? 😜
After a very long week teaching school, this post hit home! I’ve been teaching for 25 years now, and it’s so important to find ways to unwind and relax in our own homes, especially after stressful days. I think I crave simplicity more than ever. During the summer months, my garden and every layer of texture and every varied hue becomes my escape, my meditative hideaway. But in the winter I nest, and boy do I love the coziness of an inviting, unpretentious home. Twinkle lights replacing the fireplace that never burned, book nooks with afghans and tea, game night when the teenagers are actually present! You struck a chord with me Susan. I’m going to feather my nest a bit more this weekend, and I’m going to love every second!
Twenty five years of teaching kids . . . thank you for what you do, what you’ve done! You deserve a little Hygge this weekend!
Merry Christmas and welcome home. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with us. Seeing Jack so happy warms the heart.Ricki