Because I just did a long post about the moon for New Year’s Eve, today’s post was supposed to be all about tea time and dishes and cups and teapots, to 
go with my Willard newsletter that starts going out today. ♥ But, Sunday night, we walked into town to have dinner and even though it wasn’t the “official” full moon yet, the island was SO beautiful, the harbor was SO alive — I couldn’t help but show you! We went home and checked the exact time the first full moon of 2012 would rise. And last night, we were ready. We were moonchasers! Reminded once again, it’s true, the best things in life are free!
Sunday night is what got us started; here we are, just three blocks from home, on the town dock at Owen Park. The thing about living on Martha’s Vineyard, is that you don’t just get the moon, you get island ambience! Shore lapping, rippling water, flags flying, people going in and out of the golden light at the Steamship Building, the salty smell of the sea. A feast of beauty for the senses.
This bit of horn-blowing ambience is docked in front of the building in the first photo — when we got there, the ferry was loading up, getting ready for the forty-five minute trip across the sound to the mainland. The water rippled perfectly to catch the dazzling reflection from the boat windows . . . I can’t even believe we were standing right there, catching such a beautiful sight!
Water like glass for the sailboat masts too . . . this is supposed to be winter, but so far, it’s been hovering near the 50’s on most days; clear and cold at night.
And behind us, the lights were beginning to come on in the little houses that hug the shore. But you are saying to yourself, where’s the moon? Didn’t she say something about the moon?
Oh yes she did! There it is! And there goes the ferry. When we left the house, we really weren’t expecting this, we were just going to dinner. . . but when we saw what was happening . . .
We needed to chase the moon, the ferry, the stars! We got the car and drove out West Chop to the Meadow for a clear view of the sound in time to see the ferry steaming toward Woods Hole. I think that’s one of the dippers up there in the sky on the right!
A little further down, we came to the West Chop Lighthouse and there was the moon, giving us a beautiful shot. All of these photos were taken without flash — for some reason, there is a very strong light shining on the front of this house. This photo reminded us of an Edward Hopper painting. But we wouldn’t want to live here . . . who could sleep? See the stars?
Thought you might like to see a daytime photo of the lighthouse (built in 1817) . . . just as wonderful!
Finally back home, and there’s the moon, peeking through the linden trees over the roof of our house. And this wasn’t even the full moon! I think you can see why, first thing Monday morning, we Googled “time of moon rise on Martha’s Vineyard,” and planned our day around 5:10 pm last night. When the time finally came, we got our hats, gloves, scarves, big jackets and drove to East Chop. We got there early and waited, so excited, as it got darker and darker, scanning the water line, asking each other 10,000 times, “Where do you think it will come up?” And, “Do you see a little light over there?” Trying to pinpoint the spot it would rise. And then, finally, “There it is!!!”
Why is this so exciting? I don’t know. But most of what you’re seeing is reflection on the water; it’s really just a little sliver of a moon, so far, skimming the water line.
And then we were treated to a bit of a light show. . . sparking pink on the water . . .
Then turning yellow. Hello.
Lighting the ocean on fire for one perfect moment in time; how could it get any better than this?
Here comes a fishing boat going home to Menemsha, about to cross the path of the moon; how must it feel to be on that boat?!!! The put-put sound of the engine, the clanging of the rigging, the smell of the sea in the cold wind, the water rushing past the bow, and then, the moon. Lucky!
I hope they did! ♥
So, after taking about 200 photos of this view :-), we got back in the car and drove along the north shore taking more pictures as we went . . .
What a view — I wonder if the owners of this house are inside but turned off the lights to watch this??? I would. And I’d be playing this music too! ♥ Bella Luna!
This is the Edgartown Lighthouse . . . see the red light? It blinks! I got it!! 🙂 So wonderful that we are digital now . . . otherwise I would have gone totally broke on the film for this little outing!
And yet, I will publish an out of focus picture like this! But how could I not? We were “coming to” from being moon drunk, and began to notice how beautiful the Edgartown architecture looked in the moonlight, details gleaming white in the dark.
Edgartown is a very pretty little New England town. But it’s a summer town; almost all the businesses close down in the winter, and many of the homes are occupied only during the summer. If you are ever looking for peace and quiet, Edgartown in the winter is the place to go. This is part of the Charlotte Inn, one of the prettiest Inns on the island.
The beautiful Federated Church . . . built in 1828; the congregation was established in 1642. But I digress. How can I help it. Sublime beauty calls.
It was a wonderful drive back to our neighborhood . . . the moon shined its light on us the whole way. ♥
Full moons wake me up…. I think I have thin eyelids or something, because I’ve always been able to sense or “see” light even with my eyes closed! Here’s the moon around 2 am this morning.
If you have my calendar, you already know that Native Americans called the first moon of the year the “Wolf” moon. They had nature-inspired names for all the moons; next month it will be the “Snow” moon. I recently gave away a Bookmark that includes the dates of the full moons for 2012 and all the Native American names for them . . . in case you just came here from Willard and missed it, here it is again. Click on “bookmark” and you can print it out and become a moon chaser yourself. It was really fun; next time I’m packing a picnic! I think a soft little roast beef and lettuce sandwich, heavy on the mayo, lots of salt and pepper, would be very nice in the warm car with the moon shine. (Notice moon shine is two words! :-))
OK girls, you probably know by now, we have a special give-away today, Valentine’s Day is coming . . . I mentioned in the Willard that I was giving away a signed copy of one of my Love Books, but I’m really giving away two! To the same person! ♥ One for whoever wins the random drawing, and one for the winner to give away to someone they love! I hope one of those two books goes to YOU!!! All you have to do is leave a comment (just click on the little gray word “comment” at the bottom of this post), and that will enter you in the drawing. I’ll let you know who the winner is in a couple of days. Until then, have a wonderful day girlfriends, be good to yourself! ♥
I got out my Valentine’s Day goodies last night to see what I need to buy – I make Valentine’s goodie bags for my girlfriends (Mom, Mom-In-Law, Sister, BFFs…) and I already know who I would give the 2nd book to. my friend is moving away and this way we could plan parties long-distance.
love love love the moon photos – I printed bookmarks for my BFFs so we can keep track of bella luna!
Good!
I am so useless with a computer, I could not find how to reply to your blog so here goes hope you get it!! It is 3am here in London England,can’t sleep thinking of a zilllion things that i need to do but then I turned on my (new) computer and saw willard, well a cup of tea(in heart .emma mug) later here I am all calm and relaxed after reading willard and seeing the beautiful photos,thank you.x. Now I will try and get back to sleep and try to dream of a cozy valentine tea that I would like to give.xx
You did a great job with that new computer! Have a wonderful day!
We too watched the moon rise on Sunday night…from the other side of the continent, in SF. It was just gorgeous coming up over the rooftops. The waiter in the restuarant where we were eating was snapping lots and lots of photos…how beautiful it was! Thanks for all your lovely photos too!
I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog and Willard newsletter. It makes me smile and feel so much better. Please don’t stop posting your fantastic uplifting stories and beautiful pics that we all enjoy. Thank you
This blog was indeed magical. I have always wondered what your island looks like since it is well known in its way, and it looks so beautiful with the moon shots! I just read your “Willard” too and loved all of the ideas for a tea party! I used to have them with my daughter when she was younger, but slipped out of it as she has grown older. She is not with a boyfriend this year….so far…and you made me remember how painful that can be, and how wonderful it is if someone thinks of you and reaches out! I am going to wash up all of my lovely tea things and plan an intimate “party” for the two of us. Thank you for that!
What a nice surprise that will be for her!! Good mom! xoxo
WOW…what an overload on your blog…I normally try to read everyone’s comments; but, with 1056 I don’t know if I can take that kind of time away from JIM?? HA I also know it is impossible for you to even try to answer any of them and that is perfectly ok with me….love to you, Joe, and the kitties..hoping that lil Jack is feeling better.
The blog has a mind of its own this last couple of days — some of my replies are going through and some aren’t! We’ll see what this one does! Thanks Deborah!
I think you are up and running just fine….why don’t you take a break and spend some “special” time with your family and WE will be just fine for awhile…you have been going beyond what anyone expects!! I’m still waiting on my WILLARD…hope the problems with the site didn’t cause mine not to come?? Sigh Enjoy!!!
Let me know if you don’t get it!
It came overnight (WILLARD)….such a great one with all the Valentine suggestions. Thank you!! When Angela was a toddler maybe 15mos. I would set up a plastic tea set in her crib and she would pretend she was having a tea party with her stuffed animals as her guests…(I have a pic of it) we played tea party for years and I drank many a cup of “virtual tea” and I think it gives children a base of learning how to enjoy the pleasures this life has to offer. It was a fun memory for me to remember, it seems your blog has a way of stirring up special memories most recently your Grandma! I think when you are a caring, sharing person such as yourself Susan, you will always be a special memory for someone.
xoxo Thank you Deborah!
Hi Susan – your blog arrives everyday in my inbox while I am stuck at work in an office building overlooking a parking lot – and it makes my day! I lived for two seasons on Martha’s Vineyard so not only does your blog take my mind away from work for a few minutes, it always brings back fond memories. Thanks for all the cheery posts – I’m a big fan.
Thank you Julie!!
Love your work and would love to win a copy of this book!
Susan~ LOVE the moon pic’s! LOVE Willard! LOVE the Girlfriend’s…I don’t even know. How did all this happen? Oh yeah, because of you, Susan. You…who spreads joy and love from your little corner of the world, to all of us world-wide. You’re a dear!
So happy sweet Jack is doing well.
Bliss!
Marie xo
Bliss back at you Marie, thank you!!!
I may as well throw my name in the ring and hope for the best. I’ve been an admirer for many years now.
Thanks Susan for this wonderful blog about the moon!! The moon is so enchanting and mysterious to me, I just love love love it!! Speaking of LOVE… I loved the joke at the end of your Willard!! Wonderful..I laughed out loud and can’t wait to share it with my husband!! 🙂 Tee Hee!! Thank you for your cheerful disposition and attitude toward life and everything involved with it and in it. You have once again made my day!! GOD Bless!! Love and Hugs, Tricia B. 🙂
XOXO! Thanks Tricia! I hope he laughs!! Joe liked it, but kind of in a backwards way! 🙂
Picture this- I am sitting next to a cozy fire in my red leather chair and my husband is lying on the couch after a day of our teaching (and nearing retirement) and just finished our super and sipping our wine. He’s watching the Daily Show and I’m reading Willard. The JOKE- Thank you ! I read it and he loved it out loud too. A wonderful share with my love.
You are the best girl friend!
Lani
YAY!! A little laugh is a good thing! 🙂
You exude LOVE and being loving. How can we resist your enthusiasm?! Appreciated your calling attention to sending Valentine’s to single girls. I was single for 14 years between marriages and that really strikes a chord.
Today is one of those days with a few guests coming for dinner. Cheesecake is in the oven. Wild rice side dish started and the house is beginning to smell divine. Then I got to read Willard and your blog. Happy Day!
Thanks for all you do to make our days positive and happy.
As ever, Judy Tracy
Mmmm, I can smell your cooking, and it smells good! Thank you Judy, have fun tonight!
I loved your moon pictures from all over the island. thanks for sharing them with us! Visiting Martha’s Vineyard is on my bucket list but for now I can live vicariously through you!!! I enjoy your books and think I will sit down now with a cup of tea.
You should, you deserve it! xoxo
Hi Susan Branch,
I am a big fan of you from Germany – 15 years ago, I became one of your books as a gift from my American host family where I spent one year as a high school student, and I still love it now!! Thanks for letting us being part of your life !
Love from Germany ! Vera
Hi Vera! So happy to have you here! You kept up your English! Thank you for coming by! xoxo
beautiful pictures, if I didn’t know I would have thought that some of them were sun rises/sets…. thanks for the lovely moonlight!
Amazing what the sun and moon do when they’re on the horizon …
OH MY! You have lots of great comments! Of course I would LOVE to win one of these and give one away! I actually did a giveaway last month and gave 2 little Christmas stockings with a surprise inside to one winner…to give one away! I am so happy to see you’ve had this idea, too! It makes me feel like I’m thinking like you…well….just a little bit! Thank you, sweet lady! Hugs, Diane ♥♥♥
I leave my red Christmas candles up thru Valentine’s Day. I have already started making valentines for my girlfriends. I have the cup with the hearts for my special cup of cocoa or tea.
Love your blog, Doris
All I can say is “Sigh….” My husband and I have been vacationing at Martha’s vineyard for two weeks every September for the last 7 years. Our hearts are helplessly sold out to the place. We always say if we hit the lottery we will buy a place there! I have a million favorite places there as my husband and I have explored just about every inch of the island(He loves to fish!) I asked for your “Summer Book” for Christmas which I received(I didn’t care that it was used.) The book I want next is the Vineyard one. You are truly blessed to do what you do-i have to look at the walls of an operating room all day! MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS THIS NEW YEAR. Wish we were there.
And we are blessed for what YOU do!!! Truly, thank you! How lovely you come here every year!
love your photos and inspiration. went out last night, all bundled up to take a good look at the moon and stars. beautiful. thanks patti
Wonderful, wasn’t it pretty?
Dearest Susan,
This week I’m {sadly} putting away my Christmas tree along with all the JOY~full decorations that accompany it…the ONLY thing that consoles my heart is knowing I’m going to be putting out my HaPpY VaLeNTiNeS DaY ‘hearts~y’ decorations. I like to make a display on my buffet of all my PINK cups & mugs, my pink~polka~dot~wine glasses…dessert dishes, and candy dishes {with chocolate} and then display my Girlfriends Forever book right in the middle of it all! Your ‘Sweets’ book would be a YUMMY addition to my display! ThanksForWhoYouAreAndForWhatYouDo!!
<3 Lori
Love reading your blogs and Willard and especially love your designs-they are so joyful! So happy to hear that Jack is doing well –both your kitties are precious little fur bundles! Thank you for giving us a chance to win the Love book.
I love seeing your pics from around the island in the off season, but just had to mention I lived in West Chops keeper house as a young child and I loved it! Though we did not (thankfully) have an obnoxious light in the front yard with loads of tourists stopping by, lol. Love your thoughtful blog and work! And would love to win the book! Cheers!
Light is a bit obnoxious, although it made for a really pretty picture!! How amazing you lived there!
OK, I never win these but Valetines Day is my 60th(ouch!) birthday, so I’m taking a chance! Love, love the blog. By the way, I left my art days back in some distant past. After doing a lot of reading (some recommended by yourself) I have recently purchased some water color tools. I hope to resurrect some water color painting lessons a dear departed artist friend taught me, along with the inspiration he provided as foundation.
Thanks for putting it all out there,
Chris
Good for you!!
I just love all the photos of where you live. My mom gave me an antique quilt top once, paper pieced
Your moon shots are so beautiful! Thank you for sharing them with everyone. Also, thank you for taking us out of the after Christmas blahs with thoughts of Valentine’s day. Hope that I will win your Valentine books. I look at your blog first thing everytime I’m at the computer.
So nice to hear Barbara!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful perspective on life. I love being able to read your blog to get my daily dose of positivity. I hope you feel all the good thoughts that come your way in return.
Love you,
Lisa
I definitely do!!! xoxo
loved reading your blog….would love to visit there someday….it makes my heart happy…thank you…love, love, love it!
So Happy to hear it Dee! Thank you!
Willard just arrived! Love, love, love it! What an incredible Willard! Thank you!!
And your blog is wonderful Susan. You are so good to us. Thank you for all you do, and for all of your gifts to us.
And do not fret about missing the “s” in the word reasons on your calendar page, it’s charmingly unique. I didn’t even notice it, nor did any of my girlfriends! You know, I once made a homemade banner for my sister-in-law after she graduated from University and it said “Congatulations!” We hung it outside over the garage door for all the neighbors to see – and for her when she drove up to the house – and don’t you know that no one noticed the misspelling … except for the new graduate of course! (She was an Early Education Major, so spelling was on her radar, so to speak.) LOL!
Thanks for this lovely and very special Willard, and for this chance to win two copies of your LOVE book. 🙂
PS. So glad to hear that Jack is recovering well after his operation.
LOL, I’m glad I’m not alone. I’ve seen photos of highway signs misspelled, so we have lots of company! Thank you Deb!!
One of the few Susan Branch books that I don’t have — and would LOVE to add to my collection. Better yet, one for the Valentine package going to my sweet sister!
Beautiful moon beams! To semi quote Neil Diamond “we can all look up at the same moon” and share the sense of wonder, although not in such lovely surroundings. OXO
oops…distractions…hit wrong button!
My mom once gave me an antique quilt top, paper pieced, and when I removed the paper shapes to finish the quilt I found a puzzle of sorts…bits and pieces of old, old, letters and envelopes with little clues about the maker: envelopes addressed to Edgartown, Woods Hole etc. The name Sophronia Brown appeared in several places. I’ve always wondered who Sophronia was and now I enjoy your photos of her old stomping grounds.
I just Googled that name — Sophronia Brown Edgartown Martha’s Vineyard …. I found lots, apparently, if this is her, she died when she was 23 — in 1864! This was just one link, the names are alphabetical…
I too often wake up whenever there is a full moon; maybe it is my subconscious telling me “get up, you have to see this!”, or, maybe it is the thin eyelid thing. Oh well, either way, I love to look at a full moon. Thank you for sharing.
Never realized how funny it is to hear someone say thin eyelids!
Happy Valentine’s Day to a fellow moon lover! Last night I just stood and gazed out my picture window as the moon made its lazy ascent into the sky. So beautiful! I love your tea party idea; I am hosting my womens’ circle on the 16th and am going to give them an old fashioned heart-warming tea party. Thanks for the great inspirations!
Ohhh, how fun, good for you, and lucky women’s circle!
Loved all the moon pix. It has been beautiful here too. In the morning when it is setting I can watch through the tree branches. You can really see then how fast it moves.
I have been telling my friends I am listening for their howl as it is after all the Wolf.
PS: snow storm a com’n!!!
I look forward to each and every blog and Willard. I recently broke the lid on my well-loved blue teapot! I love the cream and pink heart teapot in Willard! So bereft was I, I ran right out to the little English shop near our hometown and bought a big blue teapot, as a replacement! I love tea from teapots. We use ours every weekend, and we always use cups and saucers!
Also, just bought your 2012 calendar for my wall at work. And I did NOT notice that the “S” was missing from reasons, until YOU pointed it out! My favorite reason to go on living “Alternative looks boring”! Thanks for the inspiration!
XOXO Thank you Lynn!
Beautiful pictures of the moon! I’ve never been to the east coast to see a sunrise or a moon rise! I’ve seen the sun set beyond the pyramids on the Giza Plateau, and from the east side of the Nile. A site I highly recommend! Of course, the west coast sunset from Seattle, and the Olympic Peninsula is amazing. But, I believe you’ve got the most magnificent moon rise I’ve ever seen. It’s now added to my list of things that I have to do. Thanks for letting us experience your moon shine.
I bought all of your stationery that I could find in the Kansas City area. It has been a long time since I’ve seen the boxes of it here. I keep the boxes even after I have used all the pretty paper and envelopes up. I love reading your Willards and your blogs. They put me in a wonderful place no matter what sort of day it is! Thank you!
How in the world do you read over a thousand comments? You are one popular girl!! I adore Valentines day, and really am inspired by the latest Willard to have a tea party!! I think it would be a perfect way to show my girlfriends how my life would NOT be right without them! Thank you for the ideas! I even have all the right equipment to throw a tea party thanks being to my deear sweet Grammy! I have at least 15 tea cups and saucers that she collected on her world travels. I grew up looking at them all ( and gluing some back together when she wasnt looking EEEK!!!!), and never gave it a thought that one day I would inherit them, but here they are along with silver tea pots, sugar creamers, platters etc… All horribly in need of some Pampering, I might add! I can use them for my tea party and my Grammy will be with us and smiling from ear to ear that I would do something so civilized!!!! xoxoxoxoxoxoxo Pollyanna
Ooooo, this is going to be a good one! 🙂
I love your moon shots. I treated myself to a nice camera for night shots and still havnt captured night shots like yours!! Still practicing. I was looking out at the moon the other night too and thought it was crystal clear and said out loud, I should get a pic but didnt:( …I am a visiting nurse on the cape for hospice and have a patient who loves looking through your books (they were her daughter in laws). I visited her the other day and sure enough she had a few of your books and we chatted about you for a bit…going to buy her your calender to cheer her up!! Thanks for providing a connection for myself and this neat lady:)
I love and honor the work you do. Please hug this lady for me. And thank you! ♥
Thank you for sharing the beautiful pictures of your town and the moon! I love them! They made me smile. I’ve always loved beautiful sunsets and moons. One day my teenage son called me on his cell phone on the way to school and said, “Mom, you need to go outside and see the moon!” A boy after my heart!
What a doll, he’s a keeper!
Hi Susan,
First I’d like to say I so love all your work and your beautiful books! Thank you so much for continuing to brighten my days with wholesome goodness. I have every single one of your books and am anxiously awaiting the next….let’s just say my four sisters and I are Susan Branch groupies!
I am shocked to hear your books are out of print…that makes them all the more precious. I will be putting out my Valentine book for Valentine’s Day. I started a tradition 15 years ago to have tea parties with my girlfriends. I ask them to wear certain colors. They bring the sandwiches and I make the desserts. I have been baking since I was 7 and I love it. But this year, at 56 years old, I took my first water-color class….a lot harder than I thought but FUN!!!
If I win the books I will give one to my MOM…she is a Valentine baby and it will make a fantastic birthday gift for her 80th birthday….
Hugs and Kisses,
Darlene
Thank you Darlene, Happy Birthday to your MOM!
Hi Susan – Thank you for all your moon pictures and pictures of the Vineyard. My dream is to someday own a house in the Cape, until then I’ll just have to vacation there. I’m booking my week in July in Dennisport and I’m already counting the days. Here in upstate NY they have been talking snow for tonight, but now it looks more like a ‘rain’ event, or a ‘freezing rain’ event which is worse. I was really hoping for a ‘snow’ event since we haven’t had any since October! Also, along with gazing at a full moon, I love a snowy day and being stuck inside with my jammies on and drinking tea and baking something. Take Care and keep taking pictures! XO
Hello!
I’m entering the contest!! 😀
I love those pictures of the moon!! And the water and the lighthouse… oh my goodness I feel dreamy now… Haha! 😀
Wow! It took all day to get the site to come up! We’ve overloaded the server with love notes!!
Cheers! Hope that Jack is back to his little happy self!
Beautiful hobby,moon chasing! Have you ever made moon water? You place a clean beautiful bowl of fresh water in the moonlight, and legend says that it takes on wonderful magical properties.So then you can drink it, sprinkle it on things…have fun with it and make more next month! (Warn your husband about locations of such bowls on the floor in unexpected places!) Thanks for the fun!
Probably more magic when kitty laps it?
love the looks of this book! would be so much fun to win one!
Your blog is beautiful ! Makes me homesick for New England. Thank you for sharing with us all.
SueT.
I thoroughly enjoy your blog, the music you attach for us to listen to and your lovely pictures. It is a bright moment in my day. Thank you!
Thanks so much Susan for your awe inspiring blog! I just love to read it and oh my, your photos and detailing of the moon made me feel like I was right there on the island too! Just absolutely breathtakingly beautiful Susan! God Bless You for your positive outlook, happiness and love for all of us. Thanks so much for reminding us that “girlfriends” are such an important and integral part of our lives. I love mine and I’m so happy to call you one too!! Much love to you,
Janis <3
Sue, you have the BEST ideas! I’m going to send Valentines to my best girlfriends!! Hope they’re not reading this or they won’t be surprised. 🙂
Loved the moon pix and the update on Jack who is scheduled for a vasectomy! 🙂 It’s hard to take a fur baby to the vet. You simply can’t explain to them it’s for their own good.
Pick me ! Pick me for the give-away!
I gave a very good friend your stamps for Xmas. She is a big fan of yours. Had no idea until she opened the gift. “Great minds” I told her
luv.m.
I enjoy your blog, Willard, and all your work. I’d love to win a copy of the book.
XOXO
OMG so many replies..I will just say a pray that I may be so lucky to win. Thank you so much for taking and sharing so many pictures of where you are. I appreciate it very much. It is a place I have always wanted to visit, and now I know why it is beautiful…..
I was driving out of our street the other night and looked toward the bay, a stong light had drawn my attention – I couldn’t believe the brightness and beauty of the moon. My view was that of the orb silhouetted against the backdrop of the historic carousel that is part of my neighborhood. It was a magical moment.
I would LOVE this LOVE book for my stack of Susan Branch books! 🙂
So happy that we’re all Blue Moon Girlfriends! xoxo….kp
I loved all the pictures – moon and town. I shall have to print out the moon bookmark – I especially love the name “strawberry moon”.
Valentine’s Day – I always loved Valentine’s Day as a little girl when you could give out Valentines your friends at school – so i figured why not continue. I’ve been making my own valentines for years now for my girlfriends – way back i think they thought i was a little crazy but now they look forward to receiving theirs LOL And I’ve already got mine planned for this year 🙂 And I’d love to win your book – thanks for the chance.
Yikes Susan, your LOVE book is the only one of your books I do not have. How did that happen?? I would LOVE to be chosen to receive the books and would LOVE to share one with my bestest friend, Anita. Thanks for the moon blog…I printed out my amazing bookmark and enjoy it so much. Thanks also for all you do to bring all of us girlfriends together.
Oh, Susan I would be so proud to have this book, it would be my first. I just found out about your blog from a friend in October. Got your Williard. And I really loved the moon pics. Thanks
Oh,what a beautiful blog and pictures! And Williard on the same day-than you dear Susan. You were my inspiration as I raised my kids, my solace when I divorced and they were grown and gone-and a few times-in snail mail-you even wrote to me when I was very sad.Now,miraculously,at the old age of 62, I am getting married tomorrow and will celebrate Valentine’s Day for the first time in many years. I would use mybookforus and give the other one to my dear new neighbor who does everything for everyone but herself. ThankyouSusan-we are honeymooning in Provincetown-buti will look over and think of you! Love,laura
Oh, 🙂 confetti and champagne bubbles, how wonderful Laura!!! ♥♥♥ Here’s to your happiness!
Wow! Loved all your pictures. So romantically beautiful, especially with your wonderful descriptions.
I hope Jack is doing purrfectly well.
Fondly,
Marie
I always love your blogs, but this was the best one ever!! Thanks so much for sharing your amazing talent, Susan!!
As I stood in front of the window at the kitchen sink 2 nights ago, I drank in the moonlight…no, really, I did. As I brought a glass to my mouth for my before-bedtime-drink-of-water, the moonlight was shimmering & shining on the surface of the moving water. So, I had to keep standing there & drink the whole glass.
Lit from the inside too, I can tell!
Susan, you are clearly “drunk on moon shine!” We live on Lake Ontario and love watching the moon rise over the water here in our neck of the woods, also. Only thing I would add, along with the roast beef sandwich you suggested, is a beach fire……..ohhhhh, it’s all good!
As always, DonnaRay
I bought this Love book years and years ago. Love it! Christine
I love all your work, dear Susan! I hope I win the book drawing, so that I can give my copy to my friend Valerie, whose birthday is Valentine’s Day!!!! Lots of love to you and your husband, including the kitten!!!
Just reread your blog for the third time. I love looking at the moon when it is full. Just love looking at all your pictures. Love your bookmark. Just printed out three of them for me, my sister & my 14 year old daughter. Now we can keep track of the names. Thank you!
the pictures of the moon are soooo dreamy. I went out with my own camera and took some pictures from my home. Thank you for reminding us to appreciate it’s beauty. I would love to win the LOVE book as I am so inspired by your ideas. I am burning a candle in an old sugar bowl I picked up at a church tag sale this summer as I have seen you do on your site. Keep on inspiring us. Love to you too! 🙂
Hi Susan, your post arrives everyday while I’m at work. It makes my day to be distracted from the grey and whiteness of cubicles. This post was my favorite….I love all things moonish. Nothing like taking a winter walk after dark when the moon is full. Wishing you much happiness during 2012.
Linda
Your pictures are amazing..truly captures the magic of Cape Cod…thank you for sharing with us!
P.S. Whenever you *paint* ‘Evangeline in the Light of the Moon’ please let me know…….I’ll be waiting ever so patiently :o)
♥♥
OK! Thanks for sending it!
Thanks for reminding me as I sit reading your newsletter and Blog that if we look we can fill our days with pleasant things like tea parties on these cold gray days. I am typing one handed and left at that as I recover from shoulder surgery, my 36th anniversary is February 14, and you’ve given me lots of fun things to ponder. Thank you.
Feel better soon Sheryl!
I love your art work, it makes me feel cozy when I see it and read what you write.
Oh sweet Susan, I’ve just had the best time going through your blog trying to catch up to where I left off when I went away for the holidays. What fun it was! The moon chasing especially. I love watching the moon – why didn’t I ever think of doing that??? Your pictures, as usual, are simply fantastic. Thanks again for sharing with us.
thank you for sharing your life with us!!
Hey Susan,
Happy Valentine’s Day-I love Willard and all of your posts. Thanks for putting a huge smile on my face today.
OHHHH you have so many wonderful things for sale at your store. I am ordering a ton ‘O’ things once I can decide -because I want them all.
Don’t fret about missing the S in reasons–life happens. Most folks won’t even notice it. 🙂
Abundance–love this word in your poem–is it not true?
Big hug sent your way,
Starr Miller
You have inspired me to have a Valentine’s Day Tea for my girlfriends. The book would be a fun gift to give to a lucky winner.
Susan,
I am originally from Scotland, so I love my tea! I have many teapots to celebrate any tea party. It is a wonderful tradition. How do I register for your fun drawing? My siste-in-law, Cindy, won your beautiful quilt give-a-way.
She is sooo happy with your quilt.
She was the perfect person to win it! By leaving that comment, you are registered for the drawing Elizabeth!
Hi Susan! I’ve never left you a comment before, but I’ve been following you for years…since I first sold your Heart of the Home in my little bookstore in Merrimack, NH. Anyways, loving your blog! The pictures are gorgeous. I’ve never been to the Vineyard, but so aspire to be there in the future. We wanted to go this year for our 10 year anniversary, but my husband lost his job, so we’ll put it off a bit. Happy New Year to you! Keep doing what you do, you’re a spot of sunshine in my day! ~Vonnie, NH
Thank you Vonnie! And thanks for selling my book!
WOW! Lots of comments! Just got Willard and LOVE it as usual! Such fun to find in the mailbox!! 🙂
Susan, you are a joy and an inspiration! Thank you for sharing with us.
Hi Susan, I wanted to let you know that my husband Joe and I also just celebrated our 25th anniversary too! Must be a “Sue & Joe” thing!
hahaha!
Susan;
Your moon pictures are beautiful! Makes me think of that movie Moonstruck with Cher and Nicholas Cage. Definitely not their best acting, but I love it anyway. (Coincidentally, my husband gave it to me for Valentine’s Day 2000.) Anyway, back to the moon… I love it too. And your pictures make me want to visit MV more than ever! All that charm and beauty makes me wonder how you ever get any work done, it would be so easy to get distracted by it. Lucky for us, you’re able to find a way. The world would be a much colder, grayer & cheerless place without all the wonderful things you and your wonderful art (& heart) add to it!! Thank you for the book winning opportunity and for all the kind and generous things you do! <3
So sweet Tami, thank you! I love Moonstruck too!
Just wanted to let you know that Willard arrived in my inbox…and I am in L O V E with that dishtowel♥ Now I just need to find the matching stove 🙂
hahahaha!
I have always considered myself a city girl (I’m 50 🙂 )–with the ultimate dream to live in NYC. Since reading your post, I have begun to rethink that! I was breathless looking at your pictures of the moon–I have an intense fascination with it and have been known to almost cause an accident by yelling and pointing at an unexpected view of a full moon! Living in landlocked Denver is tough for someone who also pines for the water. I don’t mean to whine–your post just brought these feelings to the surface! Thank you for the magic and the wonder!
I don’t hear whining, I hear dreaming! Always a good thing . . . thank you Sue!
Got my lovely Willard today – beautiful as usual! Thank you for the opportunity to win one of your books! I’d love to go through it on a cold wintry afternoon.
What a beautiful outlook you have on life! You have inspired me. 🙂
XOXO Maura!
I just wanted to say to you ‘sweet Susan’,thank you so very much for love,laughter,friendship,community,and especially your heart that you share so graciously,to a world needing light. You give hope,and happiness and cheer to so many. Joy abounds because of you. Thank you. Say thanks to Joe for loving you and allowing you to share that light. Blessings to you both.Veronica
Thank you Veronica!!! Not sure what I did to deserve such kind words, but that was so nice!!!
So very well said. You see it, too! Light and love!
I see the moon
And the moon sees me
God bless the moon
And God,bless me.
Veronica
I have never yet lost the delight I feel when I read your words, see your artwork, and I’ve been reading and looking for a good many years now. It is such a sincere thing you pass on to us, filled with so much enthusiasm. You, dearsusanbranch, are a National Treasure! :^)
SO nice!!! What can I say, thank you Sherry! I’m going to tell Joe you said that!
Just read and enjoyed Willard. My Mom made tea sandwiches for weddings, luncheons, and church parties, and I watched, but never wrote things down. She used Pullman loaves of bread, trimmed off the edges, and cut the bread lengthwise into long slices. Some of the long slices were rolled with a rolling pin to flatten, then a filling was spread over the flattened bread. After spreading the long slices with all sorts of fillings, she would roll them from the short end, jellyroll-style. I think she wrapped each roll in waxed paper, then a kitchen towel, and they were popped into the fridge until it was time to cut the rolls into @ 1/2″ slices. Other unflattened slices were spread with egg salad, flavored cream cheeses , Old English cheddar cheese, or a number of other fillings. After being topped with another unflattened slice, the sandwiches were cut into diamond, heart, or other fancy shapes. I LOVED these sandwiches, and Susan, you have inspired me to try to make some of these and invite my sister and some of my girlfriends over for tea. If only I have correctly remembered how this was done. Your Willard tea suggestions have given me a shot of self-confidence, but maybe I should serve the wine first to give us all some courage to try out the sandwich creations!!
LOL, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is, and you can make everything ahead!
I’ve had a busy & stressful three days and am relaxing reading Willard. Thank you for sharing such beautiful pictures and wonderful stories…you really brighten my day!
I love reading Willard, and the pictures of the island are beautiful. What a blessing to live there and enjoy the beauty every day. Jack is absolutely adorable – your description of him made me laugh.
I hope to be the one that wins your signed Love book.
Thank you, Susan, for the lovely lunar musings. Your blog is often the highlight of my day!
Just read Willard and thought the joke was very funny! Thanks for sharing !
Good, I’m not the best joke teller, but I hoped it was different if you read it!
Celebrate L♥VE!
I’ve been a big fan of your books and sweet art since very early in my marriage (we have been married for 27 years), as you represented to me a simple,sweet life ( and still do!). I would love to add this book to my collection 🙂
Such lovely pictures of the Vineyard… Thank you so much. We haven’t been there for years – must plan a getaway!
I have many of your books and love them all very much – especially the Summer book. Would love to add this one to my collection!
Thankyou for sharing your wonderful art work, your wisdom and insights and your delicious recipes!
Great moon pictures Susan! Instead of months, I’m going to think “in moons” now….only 3 more moons until my baby is born 🙂
oooo, that sounds beautiful!
You just reminded me of something…..but, first…congratulations and all the best for you and your new baby on the way! My brother and his wife were married almost 14 years ago…they chose their wedding date to fall on the full moon in July. I just discovered that they mark their time together not in years but in full moons! They have counted each one! It makes me think of the expression “many moons ago”. Cool!!
Susan,
One reason I love January is because I so enjoy starting a new Susan Branch calendar each year. When I bought my first SB calendar, I had no idea that I would be beginning a tradition. Now, as each year unfolds, I have so much fun turning the page and relishing in your quotes, drawings and musings. Thank you for touching my daily life in a such a fun way!
Here’s to a wonderful year in 2012!
TMeek
Happy New Year Susan. I always enjoy visiting your site and reading what you have been doing and seeing your artwork and home ideas. I received and read my Willard this morning and look forward to trying out some of your recipes and ideas. Thank you for the chance to win a copy of your “Love from the Heart of the Home” Book. We cannot buy your books in Australia and I just love them.
Cheers, Janette
When I saw this book, I swear my heart skipped a beat or two. How precious. I would give the copy to my bestest girlfriend … we have been friends for almost 50 years and she knows my entire life story, and I know hers. I agree with you… Valentine’s Day is a girlie thing. While my husband sometimes makes an effort, it’s my girlfriends and wonderful sister who share with me the true meaning of the day. What fun!
Thank you Susan for sharing your magical island with us! I love the moon photos! That same moon was beautiful here in Michigan too! Mild days and clear sky’s. I’m kind of excited that our forecast is for 6 inches of snow in the next couple days because we haven’t had any yet. We have a beautiful island here in Michigan- Mackinaw Island! The movie “Somewhere in Time” was filmed there. Wondered if you’ve ever been there?
Not yet, but someday!!!
I hope someday soon…