Too many things to talk about and only one blog!

Today, I have the same problem I have with every post, too many things to talk about and only one blog 🙂 !  I couldn’t decide if you’d rather have a delicious recipe for the Onion Pudding I made yesterday?  Or, maybe you’d like a retrospective of the Life of Jack and his beautiful step-sister, Girl Kitty Branch?  Perhaps you’d enjoy a peek between the illustrated pages of my English Diary?  Maybe we should do winter decorating? Or take a walk over to the old graveyard?

One thing I know for sure, I’m keeping our drawing open for the little birdie salt and peppers for another couple of days . . . want to make sure everyone’s had a chance to enter; just scroll to the bottom of the next post and leave a comment if you haven’t already.

The “what to talk about” question was solved for me, because we finally had snow over the weekend!  I can’t bring myself to talk about a recipe when all this beauty is sitting outside the window just waiting for the click of my camera!  Having been born and raised in California I don’t think I can ever stop thinking about a snow fall as a kind of miracle!

Our first snowstorm this season started innocently, a few flakes came drifting down, but soon, with an assist from a sharp breeze off the harbor, every rooftop, picket fence, tree limb, and porch roof was edged, then blanketed, in white.  A wall of gray mist blocked out the sky and hung over the shore obscuring the line between land and sea . . . pure white snowflakes poured down from every direction, swirling off the roof of the barn, a ticker-tape parade in celebration of nature. 

The views from inside the house were wonderful . . . this one is from the living room . . .

Looking out the kitchen window toward the barn . . . the feeders were filled with chickadees, wrens, nuthatches, and cardinals, tiny feathered things, hungry in the snow, keeping warm by doing lots of eating — much the same as yours truly.

 It’s a decorator’s dream, white on white with smidgens of black trim thrown in for graphic contrast!   Joe and I decided to go for a ride and check out the island; we brought back lots of photos, so now it’s your turn!  I can barely wait till you see the ferry docking!!  While Joe cleaned off the windshield and heated the van, I checked out the garden . . . ♦     ♦     ♦

We’re only growing snow flowers today!  But it’s still a “lovely garden.” 

 If you look closely at the tree, you’ll see a little bit of inspiration, my favorite bird house.  Before I moved to snow country I didn’t realize that snow gathers on twigs as tiny and narrow as a needle; the thinnest ledge on the picket fence is brimmed in snow. Everything gets outlined in snow.

Cozy in sweater layers, topped with fleece-lined jackets, thick socks and boots, leather gloves, wool hats and scarves, we head out to explore — if we fall down we probably won’t be able to get up, like the kid in the snowsuit in Christmas Story — Joe calls what we’re doing an “airing” as in, do you need an airing?  Yes, I do!!

But you need musica to do this, if Martha’s Vineyard had a voice, this is exactly what it would sound like . . . and never more beautiful than on a snow day.

Down our street, through the mist to Main Street . . .

♥     ♥     ♥

Some of you are probably starting to recognize the places in my photos — remember the lighthouse the other night under the full moon?  In this photo, you can barely tell where the mist ends and the water begins!

A beautiful long fence collects snow . . .

 I visited this tiny graveyard on my first trip to the island.  It was fall; the leaves were coming down; I had no choice but to fall in love.  That will be thirty years ago, March 6th of this year.  Like it was yesterday.

Beautiful houses are even more so in the snow.  I’m laughing, just thinking, so many of you can probably look out your windows and see these kinds of scenes in your own neighborhoods; you would probably rather have me show you last year’s garden in full bloom!

But I can’t help it, this is so beautiful to me.  Lines get blurred with the blowing snow and wind off the sound on our left.  Can you imagine being a whaling captain in the 1800’s in this weather?

Another cozy little house in the snow…

Joe had to get out and play with the windshield wipers.  We wandered around a bit more out there and then fishtailed and slid our way back into town . . .

Past the darling houses . . .

to the harbor . . . the shore line and this little green boat with the red life saver.  But then the real fun started, because the ferry came in . . . so we ran over to watch it dock  . . .

XOXOXOXOXOX

It’s always so exciting at the ferry, the boats coming and going, the loading of the people, trucks and cars, the hellos and goodbyes.  Once in a while the ferry stops running and we are all trapped.  That’s when it really gets fun!  But it takes a lot more than this “little” storm!

Joe dropped me off at the back driveway so I could walk up; I took this picture of the house next door to us — always so pretty in the snow!

Love Gladys Taber; she always says the right thing.  And then, Home Sweet Home . . . where we found this . . .

. . . for the first time, they shared the back of the sofa!  We made a fire

. . . and watched a wonderful old English movie with Wendy Hiller called, I Know Where I’m Going.

 I caramelized some onions and put a casserole in the oven — and continued to watch the storm . . .

 . . . the garden from our upstairs window

Life goes on, no matter the weather — I loved seeing these people trudging along with their umbrella.

After the sun went down, we had to celebrate by turning the Christmas lights back on the tree in our front yard.  We didn’t have snow at Christmas, but we knew we would someday, so we left lights on the tree just for this moment!  Yay.  Now we are complete!

 Hope you enjoyed our snow storm — I spoke to Kellee and Judy today so I know it’s raining in California.  Must really be winter!  Have a great day girlfriends!

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602 Responses to Too many things to talk about and only one blog!

  1. Carol Maurer says:

    Hi Susan…. Well, the rains have let up for the time being up here in Eureka, CA. Loved your pictures of the island blanketed in snow!!
    Love,
    Carol

  2. I miss the snow, especially right after it’s done falling, and it’s quiet and crispy white outside 😉 🙂 It’s beautiful. Now I live on the Central Coast of California and we don’t have snow…but we’re sure getting a lot of rain…and it’s so welcomed here 😉 🙂 Love and hugs from the ocean shores of California, Heather 🙂 p.s. Your two kitties are just cute and adorable 🙂

  3. Kerry S. says:

    Ugh! Just watched the evening weather report – rain in LA Basin ends today and forecast is for 80 degree weather beginning Wednesday thru the weekend. Husband coming home from Boston area assignment and will be happy! We need the rain! Weird weather continues. . .feel bad for the agricultural community.

    • dottie says:

      Yes, I was just outside with the dog and noticed it seemed to be clearing. I could even see a couple of stars though a lot of cloud cover is still there. We could use more rain like today’s — it came down so gently and then there were short breaks — seemed to be soaking in well as a result. Maybe another day or so will bring more rain? Have to hope so.

  4. Tami says:

    Talk about a “winter wonderland”! This definitely qualifies! Thank you for taking us on a tour, it’s beautiful!! I don’t think I’ve ever seen real snow lit up with Christmas lights before, very pretty!! No way to pick a favorite image though… You have such a keen eye! :)Snow lights, grave yard, boat, bird house, kitties…Definitely no way to choose. Your appreciation and exuberance for all those things (and more) is very inspiring. Please keep up the good (Ok, who am I kidding? GREAT) work! By the way, ALL of the potential topics for what to talk about sounded perfect. I hope they each have a chance to shine the way only you can make them. <3

  5. Leanne NZ says:

    brrrrr
    Down her in Southern hemisphere it is SUMMER – I think I need to take my camera to the beach for you.

    Won’t be too long & those kitties will be snuggled together!

    Love Leanne in New Zealand

  6. Margie from Lavender Cottage says:

    Susan – love the pictures!! I was on vacation last week and hoped we would have a bit of snowy weather which we did but it wasn’t pretty…just icky. Mostly heavy rain. Still nice to be able to stay in a cozy, toasty cottage. The cats were very confused but I had a great time. I re-did my studio from floor to ceiling and all I have left to do is to make new curtains. I read 6 books and lost count on how many movies. Finished several knitting projects and started several more. I actual think I need another week off!! I do have a “kitty” story to share with all the girlfriends. My two cats were fussing around in the coat closet in the living room of Lavender Cottage. My thought was that they had a bug cornered and I just let them have fun. After about 5 minutes or so I looked up to see both girls heading out of the closet at a rapid pace, Pearl first, followed by Sadie…out of the living room, around the corner and down the hall…..being chased by a mouse!!!! All three ended up in the studio. Now, I’m laughing so hard I can’t breathe….can’t really believe my eyes….but swear it’s true. I now look up and there’s Pearl wanting me to come into the studio to help them “catch” the mouse who is now under the waste basket. Yeah…that’s going to happen in this life time. When I wouldn’t get up she huffed and turned and walked back into the studio. I think her and Sadie eventually bored the mouse to death and it left. I have two cats, 4 live traps and me and still can’t catch one little mouse. I give up!!! Girls, I hope this made you laugh. I sure enjoy telling it. I have kinda of chubby kitties and if you could have seen there little bodies chugged out of the living room with that teeny mouse behind them…..OMG. I think I’ll name the mouse Virgina. She is definately a family member for the winter. Have a great evening!!

    • sbranch says:

      Hilarious, I can just see them!

    • Janet says:

      Joan – great story! Can just imagine the deflated egos of your girls after the mouse was done “messin'” with them! Would make a great short cartoon.

      • Pat Mofjeld says:

        I think I could get over my fear of cats and enjoy having one if it was a slow-moving, mild-mannered, “blobby” one that slept curled up in the rocker and never showed me it’s teeth or claws. But then I start to think that IF we had a mouse in the house, what if the cat killed one and brought it to me dead–or worse yet–brought PART of it to me??? Thus the schnauzers–who were originally bred as “ratters”–because I know them and if one of THEM caught a mouse, it would be down that little bearded trap SO FAST!!! Are you laughing yet? 🙂

        • sbranch says:

          Did you have brothers? I think I was hardened!

          • Pat Mofjeld says:

            LOL!!! 🙂 I had one brother and one sister…
            I hate to confess this but the older I’m getting, the more “icky” icky things are becoming. I know, I know–just get over it! 🙂 (I suppose you put your own worm on the hook when you go fishing?) I learned my technique (having someone else do it for me!) from watching my mother put the worm on the boat seat next to her and taking the hook and repeatedly stabbing and pushing the worm on the hook! Now can you understand why I am the way I am? LOL 🙂

          • sbranch says:

            Yes, that’s a little bit gross. 🙂

  7. Brrrrr….but how very beautiful! Thanks for sharing Susan. Living in Dallas doesn’t give us many scenes like this. (except when it’s Super Bowl weekend!) : ) Reading and seeing your pictures makes me feel like I just visited a snow village myself! PS-LOVE the little birdies!
    Linda in Dallas

  8. Kathleen Willliams says:

    Yes, it’s raining in San Diego today too. Just a lovely drizzle to make everything green this time of year but I loved going on your outing today in the snow and winding up with a cozy fire. You take beautiful pictures and tell sweet tails of your travels. Oh, I got my new muffin pan from Ikea and baked some cupcakes from my sweetie. See you tomorrow girlfriend! You make me smile…thank you.

    • Linda Pintarell says:

      Another San Diegan says DITTO to the above. Love your pictures and travel narrative. Actually, travel narratives are one of my favorite types of books to read. You are blessed with a beautiful life, Susan.

      • Terry B says:

        And another appreciative San Diegan. Love, love, love all that you so graciously share with us. I almost feel like I’m living on both coasts! Wonderful and magical.

  9. Sarah Maldonado says:

    Loved that you thought to keep lights on the tree outdoors for the eventual snowfall. Our Oklahoma weather has been warmer than normal and I’ve been missing the snow, especially the big snowfall we had last year…thanks for sharing the peaceful scenes…..

  10. Mrs. Joan Keller says:

    How I love Vineyard Haven…Seeing the ferry brought back many memories. As a kid I would always try to figure out the place where the ferry would blast the horn before nearing the dock. I covered my ears as we were on the top deck. Ha!
    We lived on the Cape for ten years and would go down to Falmouth beach at night to see West Chop and East Chop lighthouse lights. On foggy nights we could hear the fog horns too. The flying horses in Oak Bluffs are a special memory also.
    I enjoy your blog and homey comments. I feel the same about life and home.

  11. mari1017 says:

    How pretty the Island is in the snow! Thank you for sharing so many beautiful scenes with us ♥ love the kitty tolerance 🙂 plug in a heated throw, and they’ll be curled up in no time. My friends’ cats were all spread eagle on the radiant-heated bathroom floor yesterday – that was a sight – their smaller dog on the heated throw in the living room where we watched the football game – ahhhh…life is good! Thanks again!

  12. Peggy says:

    We had this snow storm also fun fun beautifull
    thank you for sharing loved your walk boat the kitty cats

  13. Marie (from Virginia) says:

    Susan~your winter white magical pictures made me think of first snowfalls on Long Island when I was a little girl. Thanks for the memories! Still cloudy with mild temps here in Williamsburg.

    Wishing you and the Girlfriends a happy week.

    Bliss!
    Marie xo

  14. Maureen Sheridan says:

    Since I live in Florida, I really enjoyed the opportunity to have a snow day experience through you blog.

  15. Oh Susan, always take pics of the vineyard in snow and in summer and fall and in spring. I loved loved loved looking at the images here…and watching the ferry dock. You do such justice to the place with your chronicle here. So happy kitty girl and jack are making nice.

  16. Janet says:

    Susan, thanks for the great photos. Said it before & I’ll say it again – New England has THE most beautiful architecture in the world. Those huge old Vineyard houses with the beautiful windows and porches make me positively drool… I definitely lived one of my happier past lives as a New England housewife.

    PS – Jack looks nearly as big as Girl! Or is it just the picture? I can’t believe how much bigger he looks. Your baby is growing up…

  17. Brenda says:

    We get lots of snow here in Saskatchewan, but it’s seldom the wet, wonderful kind. Thanks for the beautiful photos.

  18. Monica says:

    Your island is so enchanting – and I love how you notice the little things like the snow on the fence of your birdhouse 🙂 And speaking of birds, I would love to have those little shakers perched on my kitchen table – they’re adorable!

  19. Linda says:

    This post just spoke to me. Beautiful photos, the ferry, the fire, the cats. I could almost feel myself there. Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful environment with us.

  20. Judy Tracy says:

    Rained/drizzled a little …and a little more today, but at 8:00 a.m. this morning I went swimming in our heated outdoor pool in The Bluffs where we live. Yesterday the sun was shining. That is winter in Newport Beach, California. I’m grateful:>)
    But it is fun to look at your pictures and video and see the beauty through your lens. Thank you for making it come alive and fun. We know some of our kids live that life and they don’t send pictures/videos.
    Love your blog. Have been watching for it all day.
    Judy Tracy:>)

  21. What delightful scenery you have there!
    Brenda

  22. Jeanette says:

    Susan, You have the most innate talent for taking the simplest, most beautiful life’s moments and showcasing them in a spectacular way. Absolutely gorgeous!!!! And, the lighted tree at the end was like the sprinkles and cherry on top of the cupcake. Simple magical. Thanks for sharing in the peaceful, sweet wonder of an enchanting snowfall! I would love the onion recipe too! Just conjures up images of a delicious, aromatherapy treat.
    Warm, cozy hugs to you, Jeanette
    P.S. The kitty pics are a-dorable. The cutest bookends!

  23. Jennie says:

    I’m so glad you share your snow- I like things ‘in season’; snow in winter, save the flowers for June!
    You sound so happy and content- may it spread!

  24. jeannine leonard says:

    Walking in a winter wonderland! Beautiful and peaceful, we had snow here in northeastern PA too. It just sparkled on the ground, like fairies playing. Even shoveling the driveway didn’t even seem like work, just fun. Had some Junico’s eating out of the birdfeeders, no bluejays, wonder why? Thanks for the tour of you island, we can never get enough of it’s wonder. I am glad the cats are bonding, they will be friends before long.

  25. Rae Ann Roche says:

    Thank you for sharing your beautiful snow and all the other pictures…we had our biggest snow fall over the weekend here in western Minnesota~on the edge of the prairie~as Garrison Keillor would say…I actually enjoyed seeing the flakes fall…18* right now and below zero tonight…so glad your kitties are “tolerating” each other…and maybe even becoming pals…

  26. Jackie says:

    Dear Susan,

    Even though I live in Colorado, we have had little snow here in Colorado Springs this year….your house always looks so magical when it snows…thanks so much for sharing with all of us! (oh, and also for sharing musica of “sweet baby James”….)

  27. Michelle says:

    My three sones love looking at your blog with me. They love the green little birds – so I had to leave a comment. We’re from a very snowy place – Buffalo, NY – but we still liked seeing you snowscapes!

  28. Darlene says:

    Beautiful, as you are <3

  29. Sarah Powell says:

    Pure Heaven memories of MV in the snow for me, oh so many years ago. Almost jealous of the lusciousness of it, but a Norther came down the Sea today transforming steamy hot sweat dripping Puerto Vallarta into a cool breeze that put a big smile on my face. I can breathe again. I am no longer a nasty person soured by humidity, but a quite pleasant sailor girl when a cool breeze whips across my weathered face. All is well, but missing you like crazy, and dreaming of just one more snowfall on the Vineyard to remember in my old age. xoxox S

  30. Donna Bradley says:

    Thank you so much for taking time to share the beautiful snow with your girlfriends. I felt like I had gone along for the ride with you and Joe. We don’t get much snow here in Texas, so it was fun for me to see your pictures and what you get to enjoy. Do have a cup of hot chocolate before it melts! ;D The photo of Jack and Kitty was so cute. Loved it! I can’t believe how much your little Jack has grown. Also, the little bird salt and pepper shakers are so unique and adorable. What a lovely gift for some lucky girlfriend!

  31. MarciaR says:

    This is such a delightful blog. Beautiful pictures. More tornados than snow in Arkansas! It almost seems like Spring more than winter here, I’m enjoying the photos.

  32. Trish K. says:

    Its been springlike in Missouri, Im so jealous of anyone with snow! I lost my kitty, Lily this past weekend, and my heart is broken. I feel like the pain will never ease. I thought a trip to Susan Branch land might take my mind off things. It has helped seeing the snow scenes, the kitties peacefully resting on the couch together, and reading all the comments. Im so glad this blog is here!

    • sbranch says:

      So sorry Trish. Such a terrible loss!

    • Trish K says:

      Thank you everyone for your sweet kind words. Guilt and pain are finally easing a bit, and I remembered some good times spent with Lily last night. I wish none of us ever had to experience pet loss, animals are so innocent you know? Although I know this post is old, will you even see it? I hope so because I really appreciate your kindness, Susan, Laura and Darlene.

  33. Paula B. says:

    It was a pretty storm wasn’t it. I was wishing that it had happened when the holiday lights were still up, would have been such a winter wonderland. But I do leave the lights up in some of the windows during these darker days of winter, so that created a cozy tableau, Valentine wreath on the front door! Love the post and loving me some James Taylor, how young he was in that video. And he was singing one of my all-time favorite songs!

  34. Anne says:

    Beautiful….don’t you love how quiet it is after a snowstorm? Like a big blanket over everything. Thanks for sharing your fun in the snow 🙂

  35. Margaret Wheeler says:

    Being a California girl, just looking at the pictures makes me cold!

  36. Mary Kathleen McCumber says:

    You bring such happiness to my heart, each and evety time I read your blogs! Always believe this, and always stay, just who you are!!

  37. Susan Bryza says:

    What a special treat! Thank you so much for posting the pictures. ABSOLUTELY Gorgeous!! I’ve been to MV in the summer, but never in the winter. It is as beautiful as I always thought it would be. (And “Sweet Baby James” was such a perfect choice to accompany your post.)

    You are a dear, dear person Susan. Thank you for sharing your life with us.

    Sue

  38. Kathy says:

    I love that you and Joe have an adventurous spirit!! (And the kitties too, sharing the back of the sofa together!) Everything about this post was pure JOY!!!!! Thank you!!!

  39. Patricia from Virginia says:

    I love your snow pics! Here in central Virginia we haven’t had flake one this year — it’s been too warm. Just for a short while I would love to sit in my cheerful sun room — nice and toasty — and watch snow fall. But it must not cut off our power – again – nor stay for more than forty-eight hours. If snow longing stays with me I’ll simply return to your blog rather than do a snow dance for Virginia.

  40. Cathy in Golden, CO says:

    Oh – I love the sites and sounds of your pretty little town and even your own yard. I would love to own an “old” house with character, nooks and crannys, picket fences, bird feeders, old stone walls and history. I know the kitties love it AND each other even if they won’t admit it!

  41. Nicksgranma says:

    I was born in Rhode Island and moved to Calif when I was 16.
    Love every picture you show of the island and especially with the snow. This is your best blog ever! It was great!

  42. Juliana says:

    I never get tired of your beautiful photos, Susan! We had a “teaser” of a snow storm this weekend, only an inch and that barely lasted till it turned into icy rain! So I thoroughly enjoyed all your pictures. I just love the snow. The way everything is clean and quiet. I especially love a big storm that keeps everyone home and gives you an excuse to be lazy, watch old movies (I loved Wendy Hiller’s voice) read or craft without feeling guilty all because it is a snow day! A little bonus gift from God! Also please thank Judy for me, I received my package today!! Yay!!! (Romantic Homes magazine and Where Women Cook – Celebrate cookbook!) I spoke to her last week because there was a mistake with my zipcode, but it came today – Hoorah! She was so sweet! Also can’t wait to see what you do with those onions!! Mmmmm…. As always, looking forward to the next post!! 🙂

  43. Cara M. says:

    Happy First Snow Storm Susan!! Thank you for sharing those beautiful snow pictures. I love the snow!! I am in PA and we just got our first snowfall of the year….about 3 inches. My children got to use their new snow sleds…what fun!! I love the beauty of the snow….untouched…clean lines and the contrast of the white on the wood trees. Beautiful to take a look at early in the morning. Loved your pictures of the island…gorgeous. Have fun!! I am wishing for a big snowstorm…at least 2 feet…just once!
    Cara M.

  44. Jane says:

    Of course we would love to see your pictures of snow in Martha’s Vineyard! Why? Because we aren’t there! My snow in Chicago is so magical! It is slowly melting though as the temps warm up! We are having a v-e-r-y strange winter!

    Would love to know what casserole you were making! 🙂

    XO,
    Jane

  45. Linnea says:

    Loved seeing your beautiful pictures and the video of the ferry. I live in California and we had lots of rain yesterday. It got pretty windy in the bay area. Where I was attending a class. Dry right now back at home.

    ~Linnea

  46. Rosie Snow says:

    This California girl says keep the gorgeous snow scene pictures coming! I can just imagine how breathtaking it is in person! Love the pics of your kitties, too! So glad they are getting along. Thank you Susan for adding beauty to our days.

  47. Sharon says:

    You and Joe truly live in a beautiful, magical place. My cats always love laying on a quilt on the back of our couch. We lost our elder cat Sophia last summer. She and our current cat Lily had a love hate relationship. We really miss her this winter. By the way sadly here in Knoxville, Tennessee its a balmy 61 degrees. I cannot wait for snow. Thank you for sharing your world.

  48. Linda Pintarell says:

    My favorite pix is the boat in the harbor with the red life saver…love it! Also made your milk cake and took it for dessert to my neighbors house. Seems like “milk cake” was he many ovens this week. Lovely, lovely post!

  49. Barbara (WA) says:

    We just had a week of being snowed in and I love it! I live on Bainbridge Island and take the ferry boat often so your video was familiar and comforting.

  50. Karen Z says:

    Love LOVE your snow photos! Perhaps because it’s so hot here today. (summer in Oz) the snow looks so cooling? Always love to read your uplifting blog. and to read the comments from all the “girlfriends”. OXO

  51. Molly says:

    Thank you for the beautiful pictures of the snow. I loved the Glays Taber saying sbout the white house. I just ordered one of her books and can’t wait to read it.❤

  52. Cathi McK says:

    Dear Susan, I am new to your blog and I feel like we are friends already! Well, anyone who is a friend of Gladys Taber’s is a friend of mine! Your pictures of the Vineyard are beautiful- I live in Upstate New York so I really love the snow and the ambience of a fireplace…Looking forward to getting to know you and your readers better!!

  53. Regina says:

    Your pictures were wonderful! I live in the midwest and we have yet to receive our first snowfall. So unheard of. I do love the beauty of it all. How that snow can stay so perfectly on trees and fences is truly a miracle. It really is breathtaking. I’m hoping to take pictures one of these days of some snow, but we are scheduled to have another mild week with no percipitation of any kind. Who knows what February will bring!

  54. Shari Guest says:

    Love these darling little green birds with there little beaks – they remind us there is something to look forward to that will be here soon! 🙂

  55. Barbara says:

    Everything looks so beautiful with a fresh coat of snow, pristine, pretty. I love the contrast white, white snow…and Christmas lights, love it!!!
    Have an awesome day!!

  56. Thank you so so so much for the snow pics! I miss the east so much, and the winters!!!!! And, snow!!!

  57. Carolyn says:

    Delightful post, Susan. It would be difficult to decide my favorite part: birdie salt/pepper shakers, kitties lounging on the sofa, island wandering, snowy beauty, ferry action, carmalized onions, and Christmas lights frosted by a snow fall. Truly delightful!

  58. Micah Sparrow says:

    I’m so glad I searched your name (don’t know why I didn’t think of that before). I’ve been enjoying your cookbooks since the late ’90s. I love to sit down with your cookbook and a cup of hot tea. I will be a frequent visitor.

  59. Pamala Black says:

    Susan, this content was just right. I live in North CentraL Texas and it is very VERY rare to have snow here, Ice maybe, but snowwww, I can only dream. That is so much easier when I see beautiful pictures like this!! How gorgeous. I never grow tired of looking at the wonderful and lovely sights on “Your” island…….My dream is to at leaST visit someday. Keep posting your views so I may continue to enjoy!!
    Keep the fire rolling and oven going… Texas waRmth and Blessing from me to you.

  60. Ruth Elder says:

    Other people may not have appreciated the snow pictures but I sure do! I grew up in Ohio and snow means home. I’ve been ‘stuck’ in Florida for more than half my life now and it was 80 degrees today and the mosquitoes were out! I needed this!

  61. Jennifer Boyd says:

    Ok, this is my FIRST time to do a post, or whatever you call it! 🙂 It HAD to be with Susan Branch, my hero!! I first “discovered you” years ago, before the rest of the world knew about you. I loved you, right from the start!! I wrote to you & you promptly answered me on March 15, 1989 with the most beautiful letter that I have treasured and taped to the inside cover of “Heart of The Home.” How exciting when my sister-in-law brought me back your “Christmas From The Heart of the Home” book as a gift from NYC exclaiming…”when I saw this, I thought of you!” What a compliment!! We visited Martha’s Vineyard with another couple for my 40th birthday, now 16 years ago. I remember going into a darling, old-timey General Store on the island & finding two of your “Summer Books”.
    I was SO happy to find one for each of us!! Special memory, being in a place you live and love. We live in Orlando, FL and it was almost 80 degrees today. I’m not complaining, but your gorgeous pictures of the fresh fallen snow came make this Minnesota girl long for a REAL winter day. I relish everything you write about. Thank you for making the world a brighter place, Susan!! xoxo

  62. Lynn McMahon says:

    Good Evening~
    Doesn’t everything look prettier in the snow? Our snow here in Wisconsin is almost gone as it has warmed up here again~ fickle Mother Nature! I want to make snow angels with my granddaughters! Enjoy your winter wonderland & thank you again for the time you spend on the blog for us girlfriends !
    Blessings~
    Lynn

  63. jean shaffer says:

    I LOVE SNOW! Haven’t had any yet in Ohio so I really enjoyed sharing yours, even it is only in pictures! Hope we get tons before the winter is through!
    t

  64. Christine Anderson says:

    Yes rain in So Cal but no snow here. We drive u to Baldy village, eat dinner by the fire in the restaurant, watch the snow fall and then drive home
    Make a lovely winters day:)

  65. K. Ross says:

    Thank you for the snow exhibition. It is so beautiful, and I miss it. Here in southside Virginia, we haven’t seen a single snowflake yet. Sadly, with our warm temps, our daffodils are making a brave attempt to bloom. Far too early in the season — they exhaust themselves and there is nothing left of them when the “true” Spring season arrives. Kitty Jack looks almost as large as Kitty Girl already! What a fine gentleman he is!

  66. Sharon says:

    Your warmth is contagious and warms my days. It is truly amazing to me how brightly your light shines!

  67. stephanie says:

    Best blog ever (I say that every time!)!! 🙂

    I love winter. Love, love, love it and this is a love letter to winter. And while I have a bit of snow here (NY) – nothing, nothing, nothing beats snow in New England. Snow on a true New England home, fence, barn etc. is just PERFECTION.

    LOVE it!

  68. Danielle says:

    Hi Susan,
    Your photos of the snowy island are just beautiful. I live just south of Boston and we had the same snow as you did. I was hoping you would post some pics of the island and you did, so thanks. Snow covered houses and trees are one of my favorite sights. We spent the day watching movies, eating popcorn, drinking hot chocolate, and napping – with an occasional “airing” to snap a photo or two of the storm. That’s my kind of snow day : )
    Danielle
    PS Would love to see how you are decorating for winter. My question is – how many snowmen are TOO many?! I can’t seem to stop myself…

  69. Yea! You finally got your/our snow! We’re still waiting in WNC, just rain, Your island is so beautiful with the snow, and Christmas lights, boats and beautiful houses! Thanks for sharing!
    xoxo
    Love the music, movie of the ferry in the bay, the cozy fireplace and both kittys on the back of the sofa, they were probably bird watching!
    Enjoy!

  70. Judy Covell says:

    Hi Susan, Those adorable little S+P birdies remind me of my grandma Hartsock who collected them and had them in her kitchen in a bow front cabinet. We always brought her a set when we traveled and she always said “I don’t have that one”. She had 100 sets I bet. She is the person who taught me to crochet and had a treadle Singer machine. I messed it all up at 8 years old when she tried to teach me to sew with it. But it is now in my sewing room and is a treasure. By the way our Westie, Clancy, did not like our crusty snow here in Maryland. He likes fluffy snow. Your blogs are facinating, thanks!

  71. Carilyn Wolski says:

    Hello Susan! How beautiful your sugary white Wonderland looks!!! The ferry video I truly loved! It is gigantic, compared to the ferry we take to Harsen’s Island, Michigan to visit my father. Late winter, early Spring the ice on the St. Clare River can start flowing and can cause the ferry to stop running. One time my father had to get back by an airboat (a very rough ride). He was 80 plus years young!!! He always loves an adventure!! I love your Kitty picture….it would make an adorable Christmas card!!! The lighthouse photo is so pretty it could be framed! Thank you for sharing so much! Take care of yourself and stay warm!

  72. Debbie P says:

    Hi, Susan~
    I love that you chose to show us the photos of your snowy, winter wonderland. It looked like that in my neighborhood (central NY) a few days ago….but today….50 and windy! After this winter, I don’t think I’ll take the beauty of a snow-covered landscape for granted anymore. I NEVER thought I’d hear myself say “I miss it” but I do! Your home looks so pretty in the snow, Susan…love the way the picket fences look covered in fluff.
    Any topic you choose to write about is fine with me….your creativity blows me away! I do suggest you always include at least one kitty photo, though. Jack is growing like a weed!
    Enjoy the snowy beauty while you have it….it may leave as quickly as it came.
    Love to you…
    XOXO
    Debbie

    PS: I made the hot milk cake this morning…it took less than 5 minutes to get it in the oven….and the sweet, vanilla aroma was wonderful! There’s only a couple of pieces left tonight…yum.

  73. beebarbs says:

    Lovely photos, lovely movie — “I Know Where I’m Going”, lovely kitties, enchanting blog. Thank you!

  74. Dinahsoar says:

    So lovely. I love snow…it’s supposed to 60 tomorrow where I live…we don’t get much snow annually, but have gotten even less than normal this year. I grew up in snow country and I miss it in the winter. So– thank you for the ‘airing’. I needed that.

    And seeing girl kitty and Jack on the sofa tog. for the first time is just so sweet…critters are the best. I love cats but sadly I am allergic to them so I must love them from afar. It is fun to see Jack grow up. I secretly call him ‘little Poirot’ because of that mustache.

  75. Arlinda says:

    Susan,

    I loved the photos and especially seeing the two kitties sitting on the back of the sofa. 🙂 That day finally came. I’m happy. The sweeties are getting along.

    I do miss reading your responses but you’ve got work to do woman. And I am looking forward to enjoying that work of art.

    All the best my friend.

    Love
    Arlinda

  76. Deb says:

    Such a gorgeous post Susan ~ I ♥ snow. We got a little bit and made the tiniest snowman just outside my kitchen window 🙂 Now it’s raining!
    I love the photo of your two sweet cats sharing the back of the sofa.

  77. Lynn Intersimone says:

    My dear friend, Lani, called me from her classroom this afternoon and told me to STOP working and go to your blog and…I didn’t. I just kept on working and left work late around 6:00 p.m. I just now treated myself to your blog and I can’t thank you or Lani enough! AND, I really want those bird salt and pepper shakers. What do I have to do to get them? I am just loving that green color and we do not have any shakers and…now, that I think about it, we actually don’t use salt. They are adorable. Happy Winter. Lynn

  78. Mary Cunningham says:

    Thanks for the beautiful snow pictures..we haven’t had a decent snow yet here in southern Indiana, but did get an ice storm Friday night…all pretty to look at but treacherous to drive in , especially our hills….your kitty kids probably do lots of fun things together when you aren’t home…then act like tolerable siblings when being watched…lol….also loved “SWEET BABY JAMES” my “dream man” in high school…still easy on the eyes…sigh…

  79. Eugenia says:

    Yes! Yes! Not only did it rain it poured in sunny Southern California. I usually take the train to work but today because I love to drive in the rain I drove in. All warm and toasty in my “will brake for junk” van. So happy… Loved the snow field trip. Thank you for sharing.

  80. Randi Bault says:

    Looking at your photos I can hear the quiet of the snow. So very peaceful and it always makes home even cozier. Such contentment!

  81. Susan Martin says:

    I loved the pictures – but because I work 2nd shift, I HATE snow – I love it when I’m home, ’cause it’s beautiful and quiet and amazing…but when I have to clean off my car or worry about my drive to or from work – ugghhhh – I hate it. (Sorry, SBranch! – I know you think snow miraculous!)
    That said, I want to let everyone know that I ordered all (ALL) of Susan’s out of print books that I didn’t have (Heart of the Home), (Vineyard Seasons), (Christmas from the Heart of the Home) from Amazon (independent sellers), and received Christmas and Heart of the Home today, and they were PERFECT! No marks, covers in tact, condition exactly the way the sellers said they would be! I paid a total of 28.00 including shipping and handling! I’m so happy to have my collection of Susan Branch books completed! (I was very poor years ago, and couldn’t buy them as they came out!) I can’t wait to make the recipes that I’ve been salivating over! I’m so glad I found this website again!

  82. Elaine says:

    There is something about an island dressed in winter that holds everything precious near and shuts out the troubles of the world.

  83. Sheila Brazzell says:

    Girl Kitty and Jack sharing the sofa-how sweet. Noticed that Jack took the cozy spot on top of the coverlets. He’s one smart kitty.

  84. Teresa G. says:

    So beautiful! This California girl marvels how you function in the snow, but when I look at those pictures I see how you would figure it out just to have those views. I’m grateful that I’ve always found delight and wonder in the little things because we know that they are really big things in disguise. Thanks for sharing your “airing!”

  85. Jean D. says:

    So, so pretty! The magic of a snowfall – nothing beats it. 🙂

  86. Vickie says:

    Our Western WA version of New England winter is coming to an end. It was beautiful while it lasted (until the power went out). Our forest of tall fir trees looked like Russian Princesses with their white fur coats and hats bowing to their tsar. Snow is a wonderful gift that for a while covers all the undone projects and makes, just for a little bit, everything exciting and new. It makes us slow down,look at and appreciate each other and our world. Our dark houses turn bright inside with this extra reflective gift to brighten our moods. Smell the gingerbread and share childhood stories. Oh, and by the way, a very big thank you to all the linemen and women who restored our electricity!
    I am not a pioneer woman LOL

    • sbranch says:

      I so agree; those snow removal folks and everyone that pulls together to keep us all going deserve a huge thank you — while we’re cozy and warm, they are out on the top of telephone poles!

  87. What a lovely post. And, no, I can’t get images like this outside my window for anything!

    I love the lights on the tree… It’s such a shame to take down those sparkly, welcoming lights right after Christmas. They could brighten the whole of the winter!

    And, “I Know Where I’m Going” is a great movie… good choice.

    Thanks for another delightful trip through your world, Susan!

    Jake

  88. M J Smith says:

    I love the pictures that you share with us on your “Island Life”. It doesn’t snow where I live in California so I really enjoyed these snow pics. The ferry is very cool too. But boy, does that water look COLD!!!!

  89. Ellen says:

    Here I am, happily married in my unseasonally warm St.Louis and you post photos of your idealic snowy wonderland AND a young James Taylor as the soundtrack to your life?! I am insanely jealous.

  90. Karen C says:

    Snow serenity!

  91. Not only are you a wonderful watercolor artist but a beautiful painter with words. I really look forward to your blog. Thank you for reminding us to enjoy every little thing.

  92. Pauline says:

    How absolutely beautiful. Thank-you for posting the pics. A blanket of snow transforms everything. Hmmmm.

  93. Charlene Hisayasu says:

    Hello Susan! I thoroughly enjoyed my 2nd piece of Hot Milk Cake as I read this beautiful post. Yes! I did have the chilled Sauce below the cake. 🙂 The photos of the snowy landscapes, the architecture, and the sounds/scene of the ferry docking in M.V. are just beautiful. Thank you for sharing the contentment of this day in your life…with us. It is a perfect way to end my busy day. ♥♥♥

  94. Stephani in TX says:

    So many snow flakes, so little time. Thanks for the snow-show.

  95. Ana Rosas says:

    Hi Susan
    Thanks for sharing these lovely and beautiful pictures. Thanks for everything you share with us, your girlfriends.
    I live south of the border from San Diego, in Tijuana, Mexico. Anyway, I’ve always loved the snow and have always dreamed of living in a place where you get snow in the winter…. Most people often tell me I wouldn’t like it that much if I had it every year for 2 or 3 months… But seeing how much you like it.. how much you enjoy life, every season and every day, I am sure the same would happend with me if I ever live in a city with snow.
    You are a big inspiration in my life. Thank you.
    Sincerely, Ana

    • sbranch says:

      I’ve had both, snow and no snow, and the thing about snow is that it’s very exciting — everything changes, it makes life interesting. Nice to meet you Ana!!

  96. Pat Tingwall says:

    Hi Susan,
    I loved your snow pictures! Fresh white snow makes everything look so clean and pretty! Yes, we in California got rain today! Because we get it so rarely, I really enjoy watching it come down and listening to it fall! Puts me in the mood to bake chocolate chip cookies :-). Loved your post a day or so ago when you put up all the pictures of your china and your drawings! Lovely and wished more had been made!
    It must have been so exciting to see Jack and Girl Kitty sharing the back of the sofa! Enjoy your snow….our rain is gone for now, but hopefully it will be back soon!!!

  97. Catherine says:

    What a wonderful choice you made ~ sharing your winter wonderland with us. And must add it is so nice to see Jack and Girl Kitty side by side ~ very sweet.

  98. Jan-Maree says:

    Oh I have snow storm envy – I live in Sydney Australia but spent three years in CT. We had a great snow storm there one year and I deliberately did the same as you – left the coloured Christmas lights on the outside tree so I could enjoy them in the snow – BEAUTIFUL! Loved yours too. Thanks for sharing.

  99. Nancy B says:

    Oh, Susan, I loved this post! I have always wanted to visit New England and these snowy pictures are just wonderful. We lived in Chicago for two years in our early marriage days and my hubby had enough of the white stuff. But I would still love to ride in a horse drawn sleigh. I’m glad you left the lights on your outside tree.

  100. Christie Ray says:

    Thank you, thank you, thank you….it’s one of those spending-much-time-in-jammies-waking-up-in-the-middle-of-the-night-to-paint-one-more-page…times! My new batch of 3-haired paint brushes came in the nick of time:) , I’m drinking coffee and tea out of my Emma cups, and thankful for girlfriends like you and the rest, who come here to linger and visit…love it! xoxoxo

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