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Sunday, December 16, 2007

Come On In! You Are SO Welcome Here!

Hey there! You made it and I am so glad you did. I know you have a lot of people to visit today so come on in and get warm. It has been so cold the past few days and we have had so much snow and ice. You can leave your boots right there... ...let me take your coat! Henry and Kipper let me know you were coming! They are awfully good at being watchdogs...er...watchcats...er...nosy busybodies. So, here we are in our tiny foyer. Uh huh. I KNOW our house is small but we like it that way. There is just enough room for the 4 of us (7 counting our furbabies) but it seems the house grows to welcome all the family and friends who stop by. The magic of love just does that to a house don't you think? Our theme this year was chosen by my daughter Grace. She asked for "Candy canes, snowmen, Santas and lots of red and white." So, you will pardon us if the place looks like a candy cane factory exploded. Over done, yes. Over the top, yes. But it IS Christmas and is there really ever TOO much? Nope, didn't think so! Don't mind the teddies...they are all decked out in their festive wear and preparing for the big day. We will go up these stairs to the landing and into the master bedroom where you will find a tree just for Bill and me... I love the golds and coppers and browns and think it displays this nativity well. My late mother in law made this as a gift for me 29 years ago. It just feels right to have this tree here in our bedroom where we can enjoy it...just the two of us. I guess we should head back downstairs now...Grace did not wish to have her room shown today as she is still busy wrapping and creating and sewing and ...well...if you COULD see it you would find lots of pink and purple decorations! She has a little pink tree filled with all manner of handmade ornaments. Her nutcracker collection is on display and there is a pink , white and purple paper garland over her bed. In my son Dan's room, his Nutcracker's are displayed...the ones he collected for several years and from a few different countries. I doubt he would mind his room being shown but I think he might well still be asleep...he did work late last night and I don't know how Christmasy it would be to see my son in his boxers...even if they ARE his "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas" boxers. Ahem...This is the door to my little study...little being the operative word. I actually made this wreath all by myself. Hard to believe I know. Try not to bump it. It could fall apart at any moment! This is a sweet little decoupaged bowl that Grace made last year. It holds some of the pretty glass ornaments that my sister in law, Lisa, gave me a few years ago. I just love this little Christmas fairy...Grace says her name is Kelly. Yeah, Grace she told. Me, nope. Fairies! I know...I *AM* a big kid at heart. Teddies and rabbits, penguins, dolls and mice...all are welcome here at Rabbit Run! Spiders and snakes? Not so much. This is a little tree here in my study. It is filled with tiny bears and rabbits and it is always a hit with the children who pop by. It has also been a huge hit with Henry who seems to find it absolutely irresistible. Just ask the tree. Poor tree. These are just two of the little animals who make this tree their home every December. Pillows..the more the merrier right? Yup, MORE teddies and under this glass cloche? My beloved "Christmas Story" figures which were a gift from my brother a few years back. Let's go into the dining room now shall we? Prepare yourself...the snow people have invaded and, well, I just hope you don't find it too unsettling. They DO like to stare...and stare. But I did catch one of them blinking the other day. Well, I DID. There is some of my precious blue and white in evidence... Here... ...and here. My late mother in law created 4 of these stockings and they are really treasures for each of us. Our names and the date are sewn onto each one. I know they mean a lot to my son and daughter. To Bill and to me as well. The table is all set for our Christmas Eve dinner. The moose and rabbits are getting ready to celebrate. Let's go down the hallway...oh! Here is our powder room. Tiny bath? Tiny tree.A friend recently gave me this ornament of the Empire State Building. A Target find! Have I ever told you how much I *LOVE* Target? Oh...I have have I? Okay then... My, this bath is even tinier with both of us in it...what do you say we move on into the living room? Oompf... Our cat Henry loves to make this little bell ring...I guess he heard that, "Every time a bell rings, an angel gets their wings." Henry is working hard on being an *angel* but that naughty, curious streak does him in every time. I change the mantel every year... I believe. Do YOU believe? These two, our Lucy and Henry, they believe! Our big tree holds ornaments that we have collected over the last 32 years. Bill and I bought our first one the year we were engaged. This is one we were given the year we married. And NO. I do NOT Think this classifies as an antique quite yet thank you very much. Hmpf. I have lots of Lucy's on my tree. Some alone... ...and some with Ricky too. It IS "A Wonderful Life" isn't it? My tiny gnomes were gifts from a dear friend. This is one of the first ornaments Daniel made for us. Our countdown calendar...it hangs on the pantry door. My little kitchen tree. It sits in an old milk can which was painted, folk art style, with a snowman. It has an assortment of things on it...antique cookie cutters, tiny tea pots, small kitchen implements and... ...a few of my smaller pieces of Blue Willow. My Jim Shore dog was a gift from my husband Bill. I love Jim Shore's work. This little tree sits on our kitchen bar. It is filled with tiny mice and bears. Even some of the tiniest ornaments have been with us for years! Each year my mother gives us a gorgeous wreath from a local tree farm. This one smells just heavenly. I found these valances at K Mart and could not resist using them for the holidays! I love mixing patterns and these two just seemed fun together. Can I offer you a mug of hot chocolate? Would you like Marshmallows with it? I thought so! Grace and I baked sugar cookies last night. Can I get you one or two. 4? Sure! Would you like the recipe? It is SO simple...even *I* can make them! Now THAT is simple!

~INGREDIENTS~

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups white sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
  3. Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.
Oh, see the Santa head? That was one of the first things that my mother bought when she and my dad were married. She thought it suited my kitchen and gave it to me this year. He just makes me smile! These little snow men shakers were gifts from a precious friend. The book was mine as a child! Now, even a small laundry room needs a little holiday cheer don't you think? No one in this house can resist making this snow guy play that piano when they come in...and he just loves to sing. And play. And sing. And play. And sing. Darn those Everyready Batteries... Well, I think we have reached the end of our tour! Yes, my home is small and will never be featured in a magazine. It is not elegant or stunning or awe inspiring. Yet, it is ours and it is warm and cozy and just plain suits is to that good old proverbial *T*. It is here we feel safe and welcome and happy. I hope that you felt warm and welcome while you were here. Be careful now...mind the snow! Have fun today and enjoy each of the homes! Hey! I think I will get my coat and join you...do you mind? No? Great! Let's sing some Christmas carols as we go...huh? Ah gee. My singing isn't that bad is it? Come on...gee whiz. Okay, YOU sing and I'll hum...watch that patch of ice. I AM humming...sheesh...

61 comments:

Anonymous said...

Susie Q, I don't think you left one corner unturned. It is all so beautiful and warm. I feel like I could just walk in and make myself at home and that is just the feeling I love!

Mary Isabella and Kiley too! said...

My what a wonderful tour. Merry Christmas to each of you.

Sue said...

Your house looks so inviting! I love all the toys and goodies that you have arranged every where. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Hugs,
Sue

Southern Heart said...

Sue, I don't know where to start...I would feel SO at home at your house! (You and I would have fun shopping together, too!). You have so many special, personal touches in your home. I especially love the vintage decorations, and of course, the Blue Willow. Your home is so welcoming and inviting...my mother would have loved seeing your home, too! I'm so glad you shared it with us.

I tagged you for a fun Holiday Hoopla tag (I hope you'll find it fun, too :) Please check my blog for details.

Love, Andrea

Anonymous said...

Wow. Even more pictures. I like them all but the one that strikes me as best is the one of the cat and dog.

oldmanlincoln

Alice said...

You have a beautiful Christmas home. I enjoyed each and every one of the pictures. Thank you!

Anonymous said...

Hi Susie Q! Thank you for a most beautiful tour of your lovely home. We have enjoyed each and every one of your photos. You have some lovely and treasured items and you have displayed them all so sweetly. We decorate every room just like you do! Your beautiul home is a haven, thanks for sharing :) Jenn and Jacqui

Janet said...

Oh Sue,
Your home is just as beautiful as I thought it would be. Everywhere you look it is festive and personal and meant for Holiday enjoyment. Enjoy your tour today and don't slip on the ice, broken hips are no laughing matter at our age ( well, my age at least!!)...hehehe.
Janet

Terri said...

What a beautiful job you have done on your Christmas decorating! It's just...wonderful...
Love,
Terri

Cheryl Wray said...

Beautiful...beautiful...BEAUTIFUL!! I just adored this trip through your house!

Your decorations are gorgeous! I especially love the snowmen!!!!

Merry Christmas to all of you!! (although you know I'll be back before then! :-)

Sugar Bear said...

Sue,
Everything is just perfect! My favorites are the mixture of linens on the table and the cloche with the ornaments but everything is truly stunning! Give me a small, cozy, warm home anyday!
Karla

Sandi McBride said...

Thanks for tea and cookies, Susie, just the ticket! I love it all...love the WC sign on the powder room...and Kelly...and tell Grace before she "dedecorates" we'd love to see her tree...it's all so gaily done, it's like a fairytale come to life. Thanks for the tour!
xo
Sandi

Manuela@A Cultivated Nest said...

Your home could very easily be featured in a magazine! It's so warm and inviting. I know I would feel right at home if I was visiting.

Lovely tour I enjoyed ALL the pictures!

Manuela

Joyful Days said...

Your house is so warm and sweet and inviting and cozy and......I just love it. Thanks so much for sharing.

Peace!

Rhondi said...

Your home is lovely, elegant, cosy, beautiful and inviting. Your Christmas decorations are fabulous. What a warm atmosphere you have created with all your creative touches and special decorations that are meaningful to your family. I just love evrything! Thanks for opening your home. Hope I didn't stay too long. I didn't want to leave!

Mary said...

Dear Sue, who wants large and elegant anyway? Your home is PERFECT! It's so warm and inviting, and is just filled with wonderful family touches and your generous spirit! Your MIL's creche, and Christmas stockings are just so beautiful and full of love.

I had to laugh about your son's boxers. Every year, we get my son a pair of Simpson's boxers from Target!

Thanks for the tour, and have a wonderful Christmas!
xoxo,
Mary

Anonymous said...

Wow, so festive! I love the teddy bears.

Hootin Anni said...

Oh my..........a huge, colossal tour...and I loved every minute!!

My holiday slide show tour is THIS WAY

Unknown said...

WOW, thanks for your tour, it all looks amazing!!

kari and kijsa said...

WOW! What a beautiful, wonderful, fabulous post! We love every nook and cranny!

Merry Christmas blessings,

kari and kijsa

Kelly said...

Oh my goodness! Everything is so beautiful! Just when I would see what I was sure was my favorite, something else adorable would pop up.

What an absolutely lovely home, I need to come back and study these beautiful pictures when I'm not running late for my daughters voice lesson.

bj said...

well, little susie q, that was such a delightful tour thru your lovely home. i enjoyed every single picture and description. You have a very warm and friendly house.
bj

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

Sue, your home is the most warm and inviting home! I loved my tour. Walking through your home, made me want to stay and have cocoa and cookies with you! Can I come for Christmas Eve dinner?
Hugs,
Penny

Terri Steffes said...

I loved your pictures. I got a few red x's today but my blog was doing the same thing. I hope when I get home I can see all the pictures. I love the soft edges and all the stuffed animals.

Sunny said...

Very pretty! Thanks for sharing!

Jenni said...

I LOVED everything, and the dialog! Your whole house is warm and cozy and inviting...I really love the little skiing bunny, and all the little touches. Thank you so much for the dose of gorgeous!

Rosemary said...

Thank you so much for having me Susie. I loved my visit.
I think you are having a Merry Christmas!!
Rosemary

Debra from Bungalow said...

It's all so warm, inviting & cozy & makes me say ahhhh! A perfect place for a family Christmas celebration. I loved all the trees & how you described everything made me feel welcome. Thank you for sharing your lovely home.
Holiday Hugs, DebraK

Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality said...

Oh, Miss Susie! I loved every one of those picures & feel like I have really experienced Christmas at your house...almost like being there with you. Love your pets & ALL of it...I can't even single out things there was so much to look at. I really love your's & bill's tree...but you knew I would, huh? WOW, it's all beautiful. Please have a wonderful Christmas, thanks for being such a great blogfriend this year. I can't wait to see what we're all up to next year!

Hugs,
Rhoda

Unknown said...

Wow, I just kept scrolling through all of your lovely Christmas treasures. You did such a nice job photographing them and presenting such a beautiful arrangement of Christmas. Thank you for the tour. Blessings, Karen

ellen b. said...

Oh Girl!, you really know how to deck the halls! Fabulous. I think I'd need a week in your home investigating to see and appreciate everything. Thank you for your tour. Blessings...

Rhondamum said...

Your holiday home and your blog are FANTASTIC! Thank you for sharing and I will be back by to visit soon. Be sure to check out my santa rabbits, one is real! Bunny Christmas!

Anonymous said...

Susie Q., What a delight you are...both you and your lovely home. That was so much fun. I hope you will put me on your list for next year to tour your darling home. xoxo Lynn

Anonymous said...

Hi Sue, Bill, Dan and Grace - I love, love, love your house and your website. Sue and I became "card" buddies when we met on eBay many moons ago. I am so glad we became "friends" - Sue and Bill are just awesome, special people, super parents and as you can see by her website, very talented. Keep up the good work Sue, thanks for sharing. Happy Holidays, Cindy, your Hoosier "buddy."

regina barnett said...

Everything looks so lovely. I enjoyed looking around.

CIELO said...

Oh wow... the neverending tour!... lovely, just lovely, but what I enjoyed the most was the picture of Henry and Kipper; nothing cutier than that! Smiles.

Enjoy the Season

Cielo

~Rhen @yestheyareallmine said...

Oh wow, what a beautiful tour!!
Have a very blessed and merry Christmas.

Carole Burant said...

I better hum along with you cuz I can't sing worth a darn! lol Oh Sue, your home is so wonderfully decorated and what a pleasure to admire each and every little nook and cranny:-) It's all so warm and welcoming!! You mentioned your house was small...mine is only 1000 square feet so not very big either! lol Thank you for such a delightful tour:-) xoxo

Gretchen said...

"my home is small and will never be featured in a magazine. It is not elegant or stunning or awe inspiring"

Um...I beg to differ. I fell in love and am ready to move in. From Jim Shore (loooove), to the kitty-cat "believers", I so enjoyed my stay at Rabbit Run. xxxooogretchen

BittersweetPunkin said...

BEAUTIFUL!! Boy I am tired...some of these tours I've had to go back in AGAIN and look around to make sure I didn't miss anything!!...good thing I have my slippers on!
Thank you....your home is gorgeous!!
Love,
Robin

Gill said...

Okay, it looks like the North Pole exploded at your place!!!
Way to go!
No lack of Christmas spirit here....
xoxo
Gillian

Carrien Blue said...

smile

sweet and whimsical. I love it.

Sheila said...

Am I too late for the tour..!
Ihave been so busy, it takes twice as long to do half as much these days..!
Your Christmas decorations are wonderful, your home is precious and looks worthy of any magazine.
I have to say my favourite photo is of Lucy and Henry under the tree..!
We had two cats, bro and sis, Oscar and Purdy for almost twenty years, and they loved nothing more than to be under the Christmas tree with the twinkly lights..!
I don't think your home is that small, ours is 1250 sq.ft, now that's small..!

Antique Mommy said...

Wow, you go ALL out! Something delightful in every corner. Merry Christmas!

Anonymous said...

I think I will just grab a hot cocoa, find me a corner and a pillow and blanket and just stay for a while. Everything is just so beautiful and warm and cozy!!

And yes, I would love for that silly Henry to curl up with me!!

Merry Christmas to you and yours,
Robin

Unknown said...

Oh Susie, your home is a dream!! I truly enjoyed the tour, thanks for inviting us! Merry Christmas!!

Anonymous said...

Your house is so lovely decorated for Christmas. I will be making the sugar cookies and eating them with my girls tonight!!! Blessings, Rose

Susie said...

Hi SusieQ,
Your home has Christmas in every nook and cranny! So very festive and artfully arranged. Thanks for sharing..
xo

Anonymous said...

Oh Sue, I don't even know where to begin... it is ALL SO LOVELY! What a beautiful, beautiful tour - filled with Christmas wonder and love! Those little mittens are adorable! Your vignettes are precious! Thank you for sharing your sweet home all decked out in its' Christmas glory with us! Just beautiful!
Merry Christmas sweetie!!!
xo,
Kim

Anonymous said...

wow, you're so christmasy! looks great Sue!

Andrea Frazer said...

I love it! My goal for 2008is fresh paint in each room (almost done, actually, but am touching up) and one cozy display in each room. I will be coming to your site again and again for ideas on how to place it. THANK YOU.

LivingTheLife said...

Miss Susie...you say your home is small...well, I can't tell from the pictures & honestly it doesn't matter how big or small your place is....because it is BIG in every way that counts...and that is in Love, warmth, comfy coziness, and most of all filled with the spirit of Christmas! It is all so beautiful...everything from the sweet little critters meeting me at the door to the cutest most precious tiniest of tiny little tea pot on your kitchen Christmas tree...I loved it all!

Thanks for sharing...you are an amazing woman in more ways than you know!

Blessings and wishes for the Merriest of Christmas'.

Teresa

P.S. I'm going to try your sugar cookie recipe...I haven't made those since the kids were in jr. high! I can't wait...it is sure to make me feel very domestic and full of holiday cheer...right?

Mockingbird Hill said...

Thanks for the wonderful visit! Everything looks cozy and Christmas-y...I can only imagine the wonderful holiday you all will enjoy!

Cassie

Justabeachkat said...

Oh.My.Word! Susie Q...your home is just beautiful all decorated for Christmas. So cozy and warm! I loved the tour. Gosh, I wish I lived close enough to stop by for one of your cookies and hot chocolate and to visit with you sweet friend.

Christmas hugs!
Kat

Anonymous said...

I think your house could be in a magazine, I LOVED the tour, it seems quite a big house to me. I feel all christmassy now. Your house is so full of love.

Pamela said...

I viewed all the pictures from Bloglines -- and couldn't believe it. Couldn't believe all that work done for the holidays, and then to take all the pictures and post it as well!!

You really do make Christmas Merry. Are you sure you aren't Suzi Claus?

PAT said...

It all looks fabulous! I have the, It's a Wonderful Life ornament, too. I love the A Christmas Story display under the cloche.

I've been a tad out of the loop. Gabi had pneumonia and I've been a little slow catching up. She was released from hospital Monday and doing very well! Anyway, I'm catching up with my blogs, today. Did you get my note in your Williamsburg post about the tag? I've tagged you for the Holiday Hoopla list.

Merry Christmas! Pat

Tammy said...

Wow...what an incredible tour, Susie Q! I loved so much that I don't know where to start!
Your photos turned out so beautiful...I wish I could take pictures like this. Your tree...all of your decorations...so beautiful and gives me a cozy feeling!
Blessings to you and yours!

Andi said...

What a wonderful Christmas tour!!! Thank you so much for inviting me. Now, may I have one of those sugar cookies to go with my hot cocoa, please?

Michelle said...

Your home is so inviting! Thanks for the tour, everything is just beautiful!

Anonymous said...

Here I am still touring in January, and I'm so glad I stopped by! It must take you forever to decorate! It looks beautiful!