It’s too hot and we know it . . .
So today, I’m going to do my very best to give you a break from it and fix the “inelegance” . . . with images of , yes, COOL things!
Starting with something cold and juicy . . . This is one of my favorite summer treats: spread a slice of ice-cold watermelon with thick Greek-style yogurt; sprinkle it with good granola; eat it with a fork, barefooted in front of a fan, or on a cool porch; joy of life will return forthwith. ♥
It will be a wonderful weekend if you make this ↓ and pop it in the fridge for later . . .
For even more coolness to this delicious Cantaloupe Soup, add ice cream croutons . . . drop melon-ballers-full of vanilla ice cream in each dish . . . chill soup bowls and spoons before serving. Or try my nice cold . . .
If you keep this icy Gazpacho in the fridge, you can eat from it for a couple of days and never have to heat up the stove! It’s the most delicious way to get all your healthy, organic farmer’s market vegetables in one cold dish. It’s STILL the best Gazpacho I’ve ever tasted — sometimes I like to add a little cilantro garnish … or I use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar, but truly, they both taste wonderful in this cold, crunchy, frosty soup!
And here’s something else that should help bring the temperature down:
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Too much? Hope you put your shoes back on!
BRRRRR, just feel that chilly wind coming off the snow . . .
Mmmm, cool, calm, and collected . . . Hear those sleigh bells ringing? A breeze off the ocean would be wonderful too but if you can’t get to the beach right now … give yourself a little treat … keep cologne and hand cream in the fridge and then have a . . .
. . . nice cool shower. Afterwards make yourself a
. . . take it to the porch. . .
. . . and drink it near a bubbly little water fountain . . . because it’s the weekend and . . .
Is it working? Do you feel cooler? I hope so! And one last thing . . . I would like to invite you to join me in a little celebration for this/our
Because while I was in England, I forgot to celebrate that on June 9, this blog, our blog, celebrated its first birthday! It’s still a BABY! Only one! Let’s give it cake!
Everyone grab a cupcake! Light your candle and let’s make a wish!!! And I actually have a wish that you could make come true! My wish is that if you like this blog, you will 
nominate it for Country Living Magazine’s Blue Ribbon Blogger Awards. We still have a window of opportunity — the contest entries have to be in by July 29, two days from now! And if I go to New York, I’ll be sure to bring you with me! Of course I would anyway! OK, all together now,
B L O W !
Happy Summer Day Girlfriends, stay cool! XOXO Tomorrow is Beatrix Potter’s Birthday!
Whew! I am cooler already – even after that terrible storm we had last nigh!
Thanks Susan!
Having a rough morning… checked before and today wasn’t up yet! Oh how I needed to hear the Ronnettes singing! Ahhhhh, and did you see the picture of htem on the you tube with the huge hair. That got me so tickled I was laughing and it broke the rough morning spell… whew, thank goodness for friends who bring in the refreshment of rain in the hot spells in our days and weeks! And your pictures brought snow instead of rain! Whoo hooo and Happy Birthday to our great place to stop, visit, relax and refresh… Happy last Friday in July…
Terri…. I have to agree with you. Much prefer the snow than the rain. Love to stop, visit and cool off with the ‘almost’ daily blog.
Carol M
AHHHHHH! Fabulous!!!! Cool as a cucumber now! You are one powerful lady!!!! And, yes, I voted for this most wonderful, bestest blog on the planet! Congratulations – 1 year old!!!!! Thank you for a great Friday start!!! Love & Hugs!!!!! And I could use more !!!, but I think you get my drift!!!!
Thank YOU Joanie! Happy Friday!
Thanks for the “way cool” post ! And Happy Birthday to the blog….really enjoy checking in and appreciate your reminders to enjoy life ! Have a great weekend…and I am running out to get lemonade so I can make
“Skip and Go Nakeds” for Friday night on the screen porch !!!
Perfect!!!
Susan, your blog truly is the “pause that refreshes.” What a gift you give us every time you post. Love it!
Happy to hear that — was so hoping it would “work!”
Wow! One year old and THOUSANDS of blog-followers! That is a big accomplishment!!! Congratulations! ;0)
I, for one, am completely addicted! Thank you so much for sharing your “happy gene” with all of us! Look forward to many more blog moments with YOU!
And with you Karen!
I voted for you back in June, can I do it again? Happy Birthday to the Blog! Thanks for the refreshment, have a great weekend!
I think they only want one vote per person, so thank you Trish . . . happy weekend!
Hi Susan,
Well I was feeling rather faint, but I’m OK now. Much cooler. I JUST POSTED A PICTURE OF MY KITCHEN THIS MORNING, BECAUSE IT’S CLOUDY AND COOLER HERE TODAY. Oh look caps. Too much coffee. Once again, I’m OK now.
Happy to see a new post from you, and I will vote on the country living site for you.
Nancy Jo
Thank you Nancy JO!
I feel cooler all ready! Thanks for brightening up what so far has been a hot day. It’s supposed to reach 104 today! Whew! About 2 p.m. I will remember your lovely snow pics and envision ‘chilling out.’
Sherry xoxoxo
p.s. I just nominated you for the Country Living Blue Ribbon Blogger Award. It’s easy…everyone should go there right now and enter your name.
Thank you Sherry!
I will be making the two soups this weekend Thank-you very much. I have an old-fashioned summer cold on top of this heat and the soups sound so good to me. Why I am sure they will cure my cold completely! And I will get some of the veges from my beauttiful, wonderful Garden that you inspired ! How can I send you a picture of it? You would be so proud and flattered I’m sure. I’ll be sure to enter my favorite and the BEST Blog in the contest ! Yeah it’s raining, we so need it, so I will go out and play in the garden now and get cooled off ! OOXX
If you’re on Facebook you could post your photo on the Friends of Susan Branch page . . . I’d love to see it! Weeding is so much easier when the ground is wet, have fun Wendy!
YES, weeding is sooo much easier after a rain. Go barefoot and get your feet FULL of dirt:) …and your gloves…and your clothes – go for it!
Thank you Judi I did!
Thanks Susan, the temp just went down in my living room when I saw the video of the icy waters and pics of the snow. The gazpacho sounds delicious and just right for these hot summer days. Now I need to go back and vote for this wonderful blog of yours, which has lifted my spirits, and given encouragement and inspiration to me on many a day! Thanks so much for doing it!
Thank you back, Barb!
Happy Birthday Blog! It has been a fun year and it is part of my morning routine…coffee and a chat with Susan! Happy weekend! xoxo Debbie
Happy birthday to your blog:)
Thanks for all the coolness Susan. I needed it yesterday, I had preordered your mini calendar back in May and got an email yesterday saying the suppliers had let the company down 🙁 Much gloominess. Do you know of anyone in UK who supplies your calendars?
I am going to hop over now and vote for your blog.
We sell them to England (here from our store on the blog), although I know the shipping isn’t cheap . . . I just asked the manufacturer where in England they’re being sold, hopefully she’ll have an answer for you!
Thanks Susan, that’s much appreciated. 🙂
Okay done! I gave you a good write up and I hope you win.
xoxo Thank you!
Happy Birthday Baby Blog! Always a perfect way to start the day. I voted for “our” blog on the CL website…I haven’t looked at a country living mag since about 1994! Yikes! From about 1987-1994 I carried those poor things everywhere. Cutting pictures, dog earring pages pouring over every article and detail. That Jo Northrop was really the best!
Thank you a million for this blog! I hope you can really feel how much we love it and how fun it is for us to share the joy and beauty you give!
XOXO,
Tawni
Oh I do remember Jo Northrop, she was wonderful! Thanks Tawni!
Oh, I agree. I saved many of Jo’s articles. Also loved Catherine? Calverts writing. I read, re-read, clipped & saved too.
Good Morning!
I get so happy when I click on your blog and see it’s a new one! Thanks for the yummy recipies. You spoil us so much, and I love it! I went to the Blue Ribbon Blogger Awards website and voted. I can’t believe this blog is only one year old. Cheers to the best blog in the world! Fingers crossed you WIN! 🙂
Hugs,
Marie
XOXO!
Dear Lady!
Thank You for a wonderful inspiration this morning. I was feeling ‘down’ this morning after a storm ramped through last night, and I sat in bed reading a book by flashlight because my power was out and the AC didn’t work!
This morning you brought me SNOW! and cold soup! I just bought two cantaloupes at a farmers market, now I know what to do with them!
Thank you Dear Heart for uplifting my spirits!
Happy Birthday Wonderful S.B. BLOGG!
Oh, thank you!!!
Happy Birthday! I have enjoyed your blog so much and look forward to each new post. I enjoyed today’s blog on feeling cooler. We need it here in Oklahoma. They say 108by the middle of next week. Whew! Have a blessed day.
Whew is right . . . I thought it was hot here!
Of course I voted for your blog. Would not miss a single post. Somehow you always make my day and life’s little annoyances do not seem so annoying. Loved your last one on MV. I feel that way about our home in the fishing village of Morro Bay, CA. We are getting so many visitors from all over the world. Surprising to me. Would love to see you on the Central Coast soon. will tempt you with the weather report of 70 degrees every day.
Oh it is beautiful there, love walking through the hummingbirds on that hill behind the golf course!
Beautiful photos and drawings – yes, I’m cooler already but I’m still going to go to the pool to keep that feeling going! Just too hot here too long in Illinois!
Too long for everyone! Weighs on us!
Hi Susan–
You have my vote on the Country Living Blog nominations! Thank you for your Blog! You are my favorite.
Happy One Year Birthday! (And Happy Birthday Beatrix too!!)
HaPpY Blog BiRtHdAy!
Susan, you have another vote, I can’t think of a blog that makes me more joyful.
If you think about it, Gazpacho is kind of like the original green /veggie
drink, only eaten with spoons!
Happy summer
xx
julie
What a wonderful way to spend The Blog’s Birthday… at the spa. Thanks for the cool reminders for this unnatural HEAT we are having.
I nominated you 🙂 And I even have cake in the kitchen ready to celebrate the blog’s birthday!
In fact, it was a recipe courtesy of a book my aunt sent from back home in the UK. I am sure you would appreciate it – It has some lovely recipes to remind me of home 😉
As for the heat… I find cold drinks and fresh fruit to be MOST refreshing. I am definitely keeping that cantaloupe soup recipe handy… I have one sitting in the kitchen right now!
~Rachel~ in central VA.
Shoot, I closed the link but obviously it didn’t like the close tag. Sorry!
Don’t worry, whatever happens with links, the blog has complete control . . . a very feisty one year old!
I think I know what happened now… I didn’t finish the link!
http://www.amazon.com/Great-British-Book-Baking-Bbc2/dp/0718157117/
It probably wasn’t you, this blog does make changes to links, let’s see what happens with this one . . . good luck!
Wonderful here in San Diego!! It’s s’posed to get up to 75 next week w/lots of humidity though.
Just nominated you for the best blog!!
Happy Birthday to us, Happy Birthday to us, Happy Biiiirrrrthdaaaay Dear SB Bloggers, Happy Birthday to us…….I made your cantalope soup last summer and it was soooooooo delicious I’ll have to make it again as soon as I get back from having my new right knee installed. What a really cooool blog this is, just when we needed it most. You are so thoughtful and we love you for it…..P.S. I voted too. CarolK in NJ
Good luck with the knee! My girlfriend Peggy got hers done and thought it was like a miracle!!! Congratulations!
Yes, best of luck with your “new” knee. My 85 year old neighbor got one in March – LOVES IT – and now will do the other. My hairdresser got one May 31st AND just had the other one done July 19th. Amazing.
Good luck with your knee surgery. Five years ago, I had both of mine replaced and I couldn’t be happier. First time in my life that I can expect my knees to work without pain and not collapse in a heap. The miracles of great medicine!!
It’s a miracle isn’t it, so happy we have this choice these days!
Thank you so much for all your well wishes. I’m getting anxious about this upcoming surgery. I had the left one done this past December so I know what to expect. I’m thankful for the technology but it’s still a long, hard road back to normal. Hugs to you all……CK
You did it once already! Very brave, but at least you know what to expect . . . blessings on you Carol!
Nominated you and hope you win! If you win and go to NYC there are two great places to tea and eat… down on Greenwich Street – Tea and Sympathy and then a couple of doors up there is a REAL fish and chips place!
I went to Tea and Sympathy for the first time, the last time we were in NY — courtesy of someone here on the blog . . . loved it! I will have to look for that fish and chips place next time!
I love your art, so glad I discovered your blog! I love to read about all of your adventures and am cooled off with today’s ideas and pics. I nominated your blog at Country Living, good luck!!!
Such a joy to be able to write what I appreciate about you and this blog on the Country Living site. You do bring joy to every day, no matter the weather, the mood or the worry, your ability to refocus one on the simple, important and wonderful things we can do and/or appreciate is a gift to us all during times where it is all too easy to get mired in the worries of our times.
Thank you, Susan.
June
P.S. If you do decide to ever seriously consider getting a bunny, please refer to the House Rabbit Society.com. That’s where I got all of my 1st tips about having a house bunny the day Ron brought home a baby rabbit and thought we’d keep her in a cage…I don’t think so!
I will do that — do you have kitties too? That’s the thing, I would want everyone to be happy!
some cats don’t like rabbits. I had a dwarf rabbit and I was walking him my yard (leashed) when out pops my tiger cat who tackles my little baby and it was then that little precious let out the most horrific winny/scream. My cat was an outdoor cat and I think he saw my rabbit as a “cat goodie” to maul. Take heed. My rabbit was paper trained and the sweetest little buddy.
If I wasn’t such a cat person, I think I could become a bunny person in a minute!
Heed Ginny’s advice…if the kitties are outside hunters, it won’t work w/ a little bunny. Salt it away for the future. If a bunny comes your way you can sort it out then. I did have kitties. And now, there’s nothing like a bunny:)
Really? I’m so in love with kitties I can’t imagine it! Really, I can, bunnies are so darling! But it will be a very long time as my kitten Jack turns one the end of next month.
Hi Susan,
I love the Jane Austen quote! Now we can just picture her writing it at her little table. {Thanks to you!} Your wonderful blog has enriched all of our lives in countless ways!! It has truly helped me take the big step from 35 years of teaching into a new chapter of my life! Retirement offers the most precious gift of time! Now there is time to visit with you and all the girlfriends each day! I voted for your/our blog while you were sailing to England. What an amazing first year, Susan! Heartfelt thanks for everything you do to make the world a better place!
Happy Weekend!
Dawn♡♡
Thank you Dawn!
Dawn, I am “semi-retiring” this year, as I will only teach two days/week. I, too, am looking forward to having more TIME for creative pursuits as well as reading Susan’s blog and the girlfriends’ comments! Have a great first year of retirement!
Hi Linda,
Once a teacher ~ always a teacher! I just spent a fun day helping a friend set up her kindergarten classroom. I’m really enjoying more time for all of my favorite things now. Wishing you a great year ahead… at school and at home. Enjoy more time for all of your favorite things.
Many thanks for your good wishes!
♡♡Dawn
Happy, happy 1st birthday to our/your blog, Susan. What a joy it has been this past year. Thank you for all the recipes, beautiful photos and quotations, garden info, a trip to England and so much more. Here on the west coast of Vancouver Island, the weather has been quite lovely, 70-75 degrees at most and sunny. Still, the lawns are burnt brown, not much watering going on. I do keep a number of potted plants and vegetables on my deck and they get watered everyday. Hope your part of the country cools off a bit. Those high temps are rather enervating.
We had a couple of good drenchings this week, thunder storms, but it’s hot and humid right now.
Ohh, I felt like I was eating that juicy piece of watermelon while I was voting for you at Country Living!!!!
:-)!
Done!!! The hardest part is they only give you one category and your blog represents so much more!! It’s definitely the most well-rounded blog I’ve ever seen combined with your beautiful art and fantastic writing ability. And how can I not mention the zowie ‘Girlfriends’ we’ve come to love?…..and Jack, your dad.
My dad ought to do it for me for sure! No one has him but us!
True!! …..I wonder how he feels being a ‘girlfriend’???
He likes it!
Hi Susan,
I just went to vote for your blog, but I am totally stumped, I don’t know which ONE category best describes you! You are beyond description (tee-hee!)! Cooking – Gardening – Lifestyle – ALL OF THE ABOVE. Help please and I will go back and vote!
Hmmm, not sure!…let’s see what is everyone else doing??
When I voted, I chose Lifestyle. I thought that encompassed alot of categories into one..
I voted in the Lifestyle because I felt it covered so much. Happy Birthday Girlfriends! Life has certainly been better since Susan started this blog, don’t you all agree?
I agree!!!
I did this back in May or June I think – I choose Lifestyle. Cuz that’s Everything!
I chose “Lifestyle” but then said your blog covers all of the topics…it was a pleasure to recommend it, let me tell you! I also mentioned the “open forum” you have encouraged and the friendships women have made via your blogsite, the fabulous photography and artwork, etc. 🙂
Thank you Pat!
I also voted in the “Lifestyles” category. Happy Blog Birthday!
I chose life style too!
me too
I just voted 1/2 hour ago and did Lifestyle BUT in my comments – cover your ears Susan – I said her blog is about friendship, cooking, decorating, collecting, watercoloring, traveling, gardening and general feelgoodness and more. This is just one totally interesting girl!
I heard you. xo
I just voted and checked Lifestyle too~ you do have ” A life with style!!”
I voted lifestyle!
I checked ‘lifestyle’ and then in the written section wrote that your blog contains all of the categories above…because it does !!
♥♥♥
Thank you so much everyone for your responses! I just voted – Lifestyle! Let’s think the happiest thoughts for our most favorite and youngest blog to win!!
Since I wouldn’t want to pass on the chance for another trip to NY, of course I nominated your wonderful blog.;) You deserve a blue ribbon award, and so much more, for pouring your heart onto the page and providing so much inspiration to live life with joy and an appreciation of all that is beautiful, not to mention the lovely recipes and gorgeous photos. Thank you for a great year, and here’s to many more!!
Good luck, to you, Susan. Hope you win. Think I’ll skip and go naked in the pool this weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The drink, of course 🙂
I placed my vote for you! Thank you for all the beauty you generously give us each time you post something. I can actually feel my blood pressure lower as I read thru your blog posts.
Makes me happy to hear that!
Only MV would look equally as alluring in the cold! 🙂
good morning, whew its going to be hot here so that soup looks soooooooo cool and inviting. chores are done for the day, the sprinklers have done their job and will be on again this evening, the birds are all fed and have plenty of cool water to drink, hauled in extra buckets for them. so for the rest of the day i plan to go floating on the river to stay cool. Happy 1st birthday lil blog, and Happy Birthday dear Beatrix Potter, have to say that now as tomorrow in Grants Pass its back to the 50’s night with a huge sock hop and a classic car show during the day and a classic car cruise tomorrow night so get out your poodle skirts, get that ponytail brushed and grab your bobby socks for a trip back to the 50’s!!!!!! hugs………. 🙂
I guess I don’t have to tell you to “have fun!” Do I? 🙂
come along, have a spare inner tube and some rope so we can tie to the tube to mine and float together down the river. bring along a cooler and we’ll put that in the other tube to float along with us. see you at the river. 🙂 also come on around for the back to the 50’s fun!!!! hugs….. 🙂
well you all just missed the lawn mower brigade making their trip down to the gas station to fill up for a weekend of lawn mowing….chugging down the road at a stately 3-5 mph. LOL!!!!! do they do that on the island??? off to the river and a day of floating!!!! stay cool everyone. hugs…… 🙂
I think here they just bring gas home, I’ve never seen a parade! 🙂 Sounds cute!
Oh am I jealous!!! We did that for years – 8 – 12 of us with extra tubes filled with coolers of appetizers and beverages. The float ended at one of our properties so NO driving when done:) Now 🙁 no river, no floating but….we do have Christmas golf cart parades and you would be amazed at the amount of LIGHTS and decorations that are on them – I’m talking 30 – 35 carts:)))
Since I live in gp I will just do that!!
Really sounds like loads of fun!! You guys are HOT during the day as well. I live 3 1/2 hours away in Eureka, CA.
Carol M
Susan, our long, hot summer is really confusing my garden. Yesterday, the mums began to bloom ~~ in July!! Usually they bloom in late September and October here. Thanks for sending all of the wonderful, cooling thoughts! Can’t wait to try your Cantaloupe Soup!
Dawn♡♡
Don’t forget the ice cream croutons! xo
Good Morning, Susan!! Thank you for your coolness, it isn’t quite so hot here in Colorado at 8500 feet. You are such an inspiration with your EVERYTHING Blog (that should be a category!) I just voted for your baby Blog on Country Living!! Yu must win!! I just have been able to order some of your books online; I search and search for them everywhere. Many of them I have but ordered three that I didn’t have. Will be waiting for the calendars 🙂 Thank you for such a personal Blog and the community you generate. You are such a Friend!
Irene Talaasen
As are you Irene, thank you!!!
I like that ~ a community!!!
Where do you live, Irene? We are spending the summer in Woodland Park ans love it!! Right now it is 58 degrees (at 8:51 pm)! It really cools off after the afternoon rainstorm!
I love the cool soup recipes, especially the cantaloupe one! Perfect for the long hot Florida summer, which I might ad, will be in place until late October! sigh . The snow photos almost seem impossible right now with temps close to 100 and drought devastating the south.
I just went to nominate your blog for the Country Living award as well. Wo could possibly do a better job that you??? We your girlfriends have had our lives made better by having your blog to enjoy! How many blogs would take all of us to England in the back seat of the car and as stowaways on the Queen Mary?? Yay for your one year anniversary!! I am soo happy I found it before the big trip!!
Dear Susan …you did it again…made my heart happy !!!..we love your happy gene !!!!…….’love all the quotes…love all the recipes to keep cool…love your fun ways !!!thanks, Susan..and, by the way, IT RAINED last night !!!.P.S…I already voted for you awhile back..thanks again….with love …
Blog nominated!!! Feeling nice and cool in the office A/C – it’s 92 here at 12:48PM and gong to 100 with a heat index of 110 today – big storm ahead that will cool everyting down some, so I appreciate the cool thoughts!!!
Have a great weekend – woudl write more but at work – Noah says hi! He’s six years old – found out yesterday – in the prime of life 🙂
Hi to Noah, yes, the prime of life!
Happy Birthday to the Blog! And here’s what I wrote in my nomination of the blog as the best:
“The handwritten personalization along with the photos make this feel like a walk and a chat with Susan Branch rather than “reading what she wrote”. She includes the reader like you’re buddies. The warm, welcoming feel, the music, the birds tweeting, it’s all magical!”
Too sweet, thank you Diane!
Hi Susan, just came back from voting!!!!! Was so glad to see a post from you today!!!! I always look forward to your posts every day and am more than glad to vote you the best blog hands down…. Now i’m going to get a cup of good hot coffee, you’ve got me freezing and i love you for it….tee hee Have a super week-end!!!!!!!!!!
xoxo to Youuu.
Before I rush off to work I just wanted to let you know that IF I lived where it was very hot, I would feel soooo cool right about now. Thanks for the ideas to keep us cool. I know that many many of us girlfriends are in the heat and probably are wishing for winter right about now.
Happy happy birthday to your (our) blog! I did not realize that its only been one year since you started it. I’m so happy that you did! We all love to read it each time you write something new. I love all the pictures you put in as well!
Got to go to work now. Have a great weekend!
Carol M
You too Carol! I didn’t think . . . I hope I don’t freeze all my wintery Australian girlfriends with this chilly talk!
I don’t think you did, Susan. <3
The Long Hot Summer….also one of my favorite movies…of California. Finally, it’s cooling down for a couple of days. I hope to try your Gazpacho recipe for a cool summer soup…I truly love summer’s fresh tomatoes, cucumbers and squash! I regularly check to see updates to your/our Blog to see any new posts…always thrilled when I see a new one and of course had to go to CL to nominate the Blog. Happy Birthday Blog!!
Susan, I voted!!!! Wish I had a sticker I could proudly display. Just so you know I listed you in the “Lifestyle” category since your uber-fabulous blog covers so much of life! I hope you win!!! Fingers crossed. I will uncross them when I make some delicious Gazpacho – yum. Yes, I too am worn from this incessant heat and lack of r.a.i.n. Sweet, breezy butterfly hugs! Jeanette
Same to you, soon!
Ah-h-h-h!!!! That did cool me down…for a minute! I have voted and I know you’ll win! Happy Birthday to us!
A whole year already! Happy Birthday! Today is my daughter’s birthday too. Of course I would vote for you, this is the most wonderful blog ever. Thank you again Susan!
Happy birthday to your daughter!!
I was hoping you would show us some of that New England snow! Now THAT is refreshing! 🙂
Happy Birthday to the blog! I went straight to the Country Living website and when they asked me why it was my favorite blog, this is what I wrote: “Because it has a little bit of everything wonderful: recipes, cats, Martha’s Vineyard, decorating, holidays, joys of the four seasons, seashores, stars, full moons, gardens, England, Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit, romance, love, friendships, old movies, and books, all accompanied by Susan Branch’s wonderful photographs and best of all, her own watercolor illustrations.”
I’m overwhelmed now, thank you Mary-Agnes!
Thank you all!!!
I Now Need a Cup of Hot Chocolate Sweet Sue! 😉 Oh My Goodness! I’ve Got Sleigh~Ride Playing! ( Loving It!) 🙂 Your Snow~Storm Video! Magical! All Your Scrumptious Foods to Keep Us Cool! (Yum!) Happy Birthday to Your Magical Blog! (I did Nominate You!) Yay! & Happiest Birthday to Your Beloved Beatrix Potter! I’ve Got My Cup~Cake…I Shall Make a Wish too! 😉 Thank~You for Your Cooling Summer Breezes…I Feel Better Now! Time for Me to Water The Flowers & Fill The Birdie Feeders! Wishing You & All Of Us a Dazzling Weekend Filled With Lots of Summer~Fun! Yay! Hugzzz & Love! xoxo Poof! ✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫
P.S. Are You & Joe gonna watch The Summer Olympics? They are in London Sweet Sue! “Cheerio”! 😉 xoxo Poof!✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*
I’ve been watching all the lead up . . . or listening, while I paint!
🙂 Yay! It’s Gonna Be An Amazing Olympics! & You’ve Taught Us so Much about England….I Feel Like I’ve Been There! 😉 Happy Weekend Sweet Sue! (Kitty~Kisses) to Girl~Kitty & Jack! Meow! xoxo Poof!✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*
Looking forward to the Olympics starting tonight!
Carol M
My vote is in and I’m as cool as a cantalope! I’ll be making this over the weekend. Good Luck to you and Happy, Happy Birthday to you, Miss Susan Wonderful Blogger!
All The Best To You
Lorna
Thanks for the cooling post and the invitation to nominate your blog!
It was a real pleasure to submit the reason for loving it:
“I LOVE this blog because it is so joyful! Susan Branch reminds us of the simple pleasures of life. She relays wonderful stories, quotes, recipes, images of her world and her wonderful watercolor artworks. I never leave the site without feeling uplifted, refreshed and eager to try something new or appreciate something old and “love worn.”
Happy Weekend!
Love you Sue, thank you so much.
I nominated you. How could I not. You deserve it. Your blog makes me feel like I am right there with you.
Thanks for the cool down, Susan – it’s raining now and the humidity is maxing out! Just nominated you for the Blue Ribbon Blogger Awards – thanks for the reminder! Now to order some of your calenders…….
Ahhhhhh how delightful!!!! I could stick my toes in that snow! Congrats on a 1 year anniversary !!! I am going to make that melon soup this weekend!! YUMMY!!!!!!!!!!!
P.S. Of course I voted for you on Blue Ribbon Blogs!!!!
I keep seeing people celebrating Christmas In July events, so your pictures of snow fit right in today 🙂
Mmmm! Susan, that really helped. It’s a tad bit cooler today, (here in WI), but still waaaaayyyy to hot for up here, (but I am used to KY/Cincy summers anyways, which are WAY hot and humid for months and months!)
Happy Birthday to the blog!
Your post today made me h~u~n~g~r~y!!! Watermelon….cupcakes…….
What is the point in driving north to WI to see mom and cool off. You are all hotter up there than here in VA.
Air conditioned car?
Did that car trip to the OBX almost three weeks ago. The car was the only place to cool off until we got to Ocracoke.
Remember we have Lake Michigan! The water temp was 73 degrees last I checked~ I don’t swim I just look or sea glass & rocks.
I am told by hubby that temp is perfect!
Look for!
I’m wearing my Lake Michigan T-shirt today. Love, love love Lake Michigan. Just got back from vacationing there, it is so beautiful. You are so lucky to live there!
;)!
I heard that it’s like bath water. Last time that happened was 13 years ago. That was the last time I lived back home. 🙁 At least I have had the Atlantic for 13 years! Keep the shiny side down!!!
Just found one of my good old friends, and he has been living in VA since 1985! I have been here 8 years and kept looking in WI!!! I have one more friend from my hometown to call, because I finally found her too.
I guess we all grew up and got sucked up by the vortex called life.
One more thing…Get in that water Lynn! The Lord only knows if next year the Lake will be back to freezing!!!
Hi again~
Maybe I will wait until January 1st and jump in with the Polar Bear Club ( in my bikini haha!) the water could be 85 degrees by then!! Enjoy the weekend Margot~ I am off to the Racine County Fair to work!!
Oh, Lynn, we DEFINITELYhave been enoying the water temp! Where do you look for sea glass, we have a couple of spots, we tend to visit.
Enjoy the fair! :0)
Hi~
We look for sea glass on the non ~marked beach~.It is a spot north of zoo where people run their dogs. I’ve been pretty successful there! Lots of good rocks too~ even a couple heart shaped rocks.
Where do you go? Have a good Sunday!
We are having our second rainy day here in upstate New York on the southern shore of Lake Ontario – a nice soaking rain last night for a spell. Hurray! Maybe our lawns will turn green again soon! Great timing for this post though – still warm and humid. I just love your gazpacho too, Sue – make it every year [multiple times] since discovering it in “The Summer Book” I think… It’s great to have something delicious and healthy to eat without steaming up the kitchen – now I keep a “No Cook” section in my recipe box/books. And “Skip and Go Naked” is a top favorite summer drink at family picnics – deelish. PS – in the ferry video, I do believe I spotted several hardy souls in sailboats a ways out from the dock! PS [again] – do you think you could prevail on your Dad to publish his “Pepperoni Pasta Salad” recipe here for us? I’m go-crazy-nuts for pasta salads and I know there’s a photo of it here but I’m not sure I’ll get it right from just that. Thanks – hope everyone enjoys the Olympic ceremonies in London tonight! Can you believe we were just there???
He’ll probably read this, I’m sure he’ll share it, he loves to give me new recipes he’s tried!
So BOTH your parents are talented in the kitchen, huh? Not only did you get the HAPPY gene… seems you inherited [and married] the FOODIE gene too… :>)
One thing we all have in common, eating!! We are very good at it! 🙂
I feel cooler already, susan, even with our near 100 degree weather that we had all week! Thanks!!! . . . and I just got finished nominating your “baby” blog for the blue ribbon award! I hope you win, I hope you win, I hope you win!!!!!
Happy First Birthday Susan Branch’s Blog!!!!
Happy 1st blogaversay! Only 1 year? I had no idea but I’m so glad that I found this blog. It never fails to make me smile. I nominated you so good luck. We could use a trip to NY. I’ll be making your cold soups soon. They sound yummy.
Thank you Moe!
What a cute and interactive post! I turned on the Ronettes and just had fun! and I really did feel cooler after seeing the snow pics. Thanks for the help, Susan, I live in Phoenix, AriZona! I had the greatest time nominating “our” blog for the number one position in the Blue Ribbon contest. Clearly, we should be and are #1~~~~~~
I love you, Susan Branch! You make my coffee sweeter in the morning!
You put a smile on my face Judy!
BEST Blog in the world! Happy Birthday to you ! — but I receive the gift!
Hi Susan,
Wanted to let you know that I just nominated your blog. It’s the absolute BEST!
Happy anniversary and here’s to hoping for many more.
A good weekend to all!
Thank you Coni!
I just voted on “SurveyMonkey” for your/our blog!
I need a sweater after reading about winter already. LOL.
Treese/Colorado Cowgirl
What is survey monkey Treese?
I nominated you!
I’m cool, in A/C with a fan blowing on me, and reading a lovely funny book!
How are the cats?????
Jack is the happiest little creature I ever met, hugging and kissing constantly. Girl curls up beside me every night, she loves to lay on the porch and watch the world go by.
You’re cool, it’s cool (at the moment in Oregon – Salem) and all is right with the world. Think New York would be lovely. When?
They say it would be November, perfect huh?
Hi Susan,I have nominated your blog…LOVE it so much!
Hope you win!!!
Thanks so much Holly!
Susan, I just nominated your wonderful, wonderful blog! If ever a blog deserves to win, your beautiful blog does! Best of luck! I’ll definitely be voting again for it after August 31st! 🙂
Thank you Susan . . . I just saw that today, the “after August 31st,” is that a different contest?
Happy Birthday, Blog! You’re looking good. Nominated you, too.
This morning the furnace fan is turned OFF, the air conditioning is turned OFF, and the dehumidifier is turned OFF!!! HURRAH!!! First time with windows open and I can hear the birds singing since I can’t remember when–too long! This reprieve is short-lived as the heat and humidity are predicted to return on Sunday but at least it gives one hope that Fall will come this year…And, in addition to the birds singing, I can hear a cicada zinging-singing as I write this! A sure sign that Fall is on its way! I will happily look again at your photo of the ferry in the snow next week when I need cooling off–just looking at that icy water could lower one’s temperature about 20 degrees! Thanks for the “cooler”!!! 🙂 Have a good weekend, Sue and Joe, and all of the girlfriends! 🙂
You sound so happy! I’m happy for you! Birds!
Susan….those of us in Florida THANK YOU for that cold refresher to our very HOT, HUMID day! As always you add so much delight to my day!
Ooooops…forgot to say …HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! I also voted for your blog and have shared on Facebook…Look forward to hearing all about your win AND your trip….<3
Whew! Thanks I needed that cooling off! Menopause and hot, hot summer don’t go together too well 🙂 Happy Blog B-day! Will vote ASAP. That was a fast year!
Much cooler now. Thanks. Nominated your Blog moons ago when I first heard about Country Living looking for the best. Well, they can look no further because there can’t possibly be a better one than this. Not that I would know for sure because as I said before..I was a Blog virgin until you came along and I’m very faithful. Hey..when you know, you know, right? I had just given my neighbor Michele a copy of your Skip and Go Naked recipe this morning from the Summer Book. Guess we’re all on the same page today.
BTW, made a round of Pimms Cups last night using your recipe and everyone loved it!
Refreshing huh? Joe’s favorite drink usually, and will be again when we get over this pear cider phase we are in . . . if we ever do!
So, what else is new ? 🙂
I want to wish a Happy Birthday to this wonderful blog that makes me laugh and smile everytime I read it! Such a joy in my life and keeps me inspired. I also feel connected to like-minded folks who think like I do about simply everything that is truly important in this life….namely….living in a dreamy world of our own every single day we possibly can! Thank you Susan for giving me…giving us…this beautiful blog. It is such a low calorie treat to enjoy…..hearts and hugs to you!
To you too Diane!
Hi Susan
Happy Blog birthday Susan, I just love the snow pictures you posted! but don’t want the snow Yet? I read the poem in the winter garden I like to think the door to my garden is open I love everyone just about so all can come in! I’ve been away so I didn’t want you to think I forgot you I didn’t! I feel I’ve come home again. I know the door to your garden Susan is never closed to us here!!! And you know just looking at you’re blog makes ya kinda well happy! and that’s for me! {{{{Hugs}}}} Susan….
Welcome back Kimi!!
Thank You…..Good to be Back!!!
Susan, Happy blog birthday! I did nominate your blog as the best because it is! I get withdrawal when I don’t get my blog fix, so I was so happy to hear from you today! So many nice ideas to stay cool…it certainly has been hot here. I think my favorite is the watermelon, it just brings back memories of those hot summer days that my mom would cut up watermelon for us kids (seven of us) and we’d sit out on the picnic table in the back yard, juice dripping down our chins and spitting the black seeds as far as we could! Ah the good ole days!
Hello Susan! It’s dark and stormy here in Dearborn, Michigan right now 🙁
Reading your blog keeps me smiling, and happy!!!! Happy 1st Birthday to the Susan Branch Blog!!!! Yes, I voted for you to win………….because you are already a “winner” to all of us girlfriends!!!! Thank you for the cooling recipes! I’m so excited to try them for an August backyard picnic, as with all of this heat I’m running out of ideas to keep cool, and serve light recipes for my family. God Bless you Susan for all that you do for us!!!!!! Good Luck in the contest, I have a feeling you will win!!!!!!
Congratulations on your first year anniversary!
I enjoy all the loveliness that comes from your corner of the world!
Done. I hope you win because you certainly deserve it! I get so much pleasure out of reading your blog. For all you’ve given by sharing your life with us, I hope we can give it back to you in some way. Love from Rhode Island, Jillian
You do, just by being here, more than you know!! Thanks Jillian!
All set!!! I voted and selected “Lifestyle”! You’re in. There’s no question your/our blog will blow the competition away!! When we gather, the girlfriends are a force to be reckoned with!! 🙂 Running out to get the ingredients for the cantaloupe soup. Happy Birthday Blog! Have a great weekend Susan!
Well Happy Belated Birthday to you Susan – I didn’t realise you were such a wee one! You should celebrate and congratulate yourself for bringing so much pleasure to us your loyal readers and admirers. And of course we will be voting for you on CL!
Yeth, I’m a wee one! 🙂 Thank you Ann!
This hot time of year when the woodsy undergrowth begins to turn brown, I begin to day dream of cool autumn days and fields of pumpkins. Just this morning I began looking for photos of Halloween decorations but with this heat all around us I soon found myself looking at pictures of snow storms on Martha’s Vinyard.
Keep the cool breezes coming our way, I am off to place a vote!
I’m whispering this just to you Audrey, don’t want the girls to hear me . .. but two things have happened … I saw a red leaf the other day, and we heard cicada on our walk …
Thanks for the coolness … it hasn’t been as hot here the past few days. Today is relatively cool, but still humid; if the sun were out it would be very warm indeed.
I immediately went and nominated your blog for the Country Living award. You deserve to win and I hope you do!
Keeping it cool here. I did the naked thing this AM after my run and some gardening. I know~TMI. Had lettuce with cottage cheese mixed with Herbs de Provence and tomatoes on top. I was reading a book on French Country decorating, and when I got to the part about Provence it was lunch time. Then I voted!!!
That watermelon sure looks good. I will go to the Farmer’s Market tomorrow. Yum!
I’m sure you will be taking that trip to New York Susan! Thanks for all the cool reminders, it has been a very, very warm summer and although I never wish time away, I am looking forward to the cooler days of fall. 🙂
A first birthday . . . what a special landmark! I have no doubt there are many, many more to come. And you certainly have my vote on the blogger award! Thanks for the great recipes today. They will be making an appearance at my summer tea party. 🙂
Thanks for the cool-down!! I tried to click on the Blue Ribbon BloggerAward link but it wasn’t working(?). Maybe it’s just my computer, but I wanted to let you know!
Michelle
It worked for me, but I know, you just never know!
I tried again and still no luck. But that’s okay, I found it anyway and you have my vote!
Mmm- those cupcakes were good! Happy Birthday to the next Country Living’s Blog of the Year!
X O X O !!
I loved the blog today….when the kids were a bit younger and it was stinkin’ hot I would pop in movies like: The River Wild, 8 Below, or Snow Dogs or something that was totally refreshing — like your snowy video Susan!! love it! however….it’s currently in the mid 60’s in Michigan after an all day rain…ahhh refreshment and green grass, finally! everything has been so parched and brittle, but now GREEN has returned to my view 🙂 PS I voted for your Blog ages ago and I feel confident that all of us are voting for you and the blog which is beloved to all of us! And I’m also happy to report that my new penpal and I have connected for 3 letters so far (thanks to the mention of penpals in your FB page!!) xoxoxo hi to Karen in Maine! (new penpal friend of mine)
Love that . . . hope everyone knows we have a nice penpal connection going on at FOSB!
I nominated you!!! I hope you win!!! You are the best!!!!
Susan,
Thanks for the wonderful cooling recipes. Yes, this hot weather has been taxing – especially for my daughter and daughter-in-law whom are both expecting babies. One is due in August and one in September. Yay!! Two new grandbabies!! Would love to try the Gazpacho soup. How do you pronounce Gazpacho anyway??? Happy Birthday to your blog! Will have to put in a vote for you.
Jan
Gas-pah-cho — like it looks. Tell the new mommies I said hello … Too hot to be pregnant right now!!!
Hi Susan and Girls!
Here’s the news for today:
1. Voted for you when we were back in England and voted for you again today….Happy Birthday Blog that we love!
2. Signed the petition (from Susan’s twitter) to ban assault rifles….we don’t need those, do we??? No thank you!
3. Our daughters and I helped pack over 20,000 meals for Children Against Hunger this morning with a bunch of other parents and kids at the High School cafeteria. Our small way to try to help. Hungry babies and children…no thank you.
4. SOOO excited for the opening ceremonies of the Olympics tonight!! Having a little Olympic party tonight and when I stopped at our little market to get a few last minute things what do you think I found?????? MAGNER’S PEAR CIDER!!! Right there on the shelf…I have been looking at all the fancy wine shops and no such luck! Should I be this excited about finding an alcoholic beverage?? Yes, because Susan loves it, so it’s okay!
5. It has rained two days in a row! That is it for now…have fun watching the Olympic fashions tonight and let’s choose best dressed team tomorrow!! Xoxoxoxo
Loved your comment, and love you for the meals you packed this morning! Thank you for doing that!!! SO happy you found Magner’s, now pour it over ice in a big glass! Excited about the Olympics!!!
1. CONGRATULATIONS on 1 year!!! Wow, I “found” you I think the end of August last year. How lucky was I. Thank you for all of your inspiration and joy. Thank you for all the hard work and time you put into this blog. I voted for you and wish you best of luck girlfriend.
2. Wish I was the one shoveling off the tailgate – barefoot. Looks like heaven to me. At 5:00 a.m. it was 80 HUMID degrees here. UFF DA!
3. LOVE all your delightful cool recipes and tips. I, “Betty Bandaid” make a melon soup: 2 cantaloupe or honeydow melons, 1/4 c Midori liquour, 1 c. orange juice, 1/2 c. heavy cream. Cut melons in half and clean seeds out and cut skin off. Cut melons into 1″ pieces. Place melon with remaining ingred. in blender; mix until well blended. Chill. yum
4. Jack must have some hot weather tips:))) – he’s older than me, ha.