Welcome to Happy Land . . . with Musica . . .
You might be wondering where I’ve been . . . I’ve been right here . . .
And I just finished page sixty of our book, the English Diary! Only two more gazillion pages to go, but we are getting there!
C R E A T I V I T Y
I’ve been focused like a laser, not letting myself get led down the primrose path; getting up really early, making tea, going through the house, flipping on lights, throwing the ball for Jack, and watching the sun come up, sometimes turning on a little French music to get me going — smoothing out a clean piece of watercolor paper, and in my imagination and through my paintbrush, I stand at the ship’s rail looking out over the Atlantic Ocean, or wander through English cottage gardens. Before I start work I draw my Angel Card and find out which wonderful word should guide my day. I loved this morning’s word!
I try to put my very best on every page . . . I want it to be something I can be proud of and something you will love. It is a little strange when you think that at one time these pages did not exist and now, here it is, slowly but surely, taking shape and becoming a book. Making something out of nothing. Kind of like cooking!
I thought you might like to see a little bit of it, although I hope you don’t mind if I don’t show it too close! I want it to be a surprise! But I also think you deserve to see that it’s really happening! You are so patient!
I’m handwriting it, like I’ve done with all my books, which is the thing that takes the longest. I actually kept the diary every day while we were in England, but I scribbled it 
quickly (and sloppily) so I could get it all down and not forget the details — I took my writing with me everywhere, always had it in the car, took it to pubs, even brought it along when we went on walks so I could write or sketch if we stopped for tea, and in the different gardens we visited; I painted too, especially in places like Beatrix Potter’s house where we weren’t allowed to take photos, so I would have it when we got home. Now I’m copying the words over neatly, in my “good handwriting,” painting borders and illustrating the pages, adding souvenirs and photographs. It’s pretty darn cute if I do say so myself.
My studio is filled with inspiration; especially books. I believe™ in the concept of “Book Osmosis,” where, if you surround yourself with the creativity and brilliantness of others, it will rub off on you; plus, I want to be sure I’m giving the correct name for the flowers we saw, the birds and the trees . . . And of course, wherever I go, so goeth Beatrix Potter. ♥ Because love is as love does. ♥
I’m having fun choosing and laying out the photos . . . more opportunity for the imagination to stay in England!
Lately the book is all I think about; I love it so much, I’m probably getting a little compulsive about it (this is where Joe would look up and say, “probably?”); I think about it all the time; that age-old question, “what do they want to know about, what can I give them that will bring them there?” I wake up every morning, with my foot wiggling, by brain clicking; sometimes, it’s the “AHA” ideas of things to add to the book that gets me bounding down the stairs. My life, in all other respects, has narrowed to the essentials. Eat (we still have lobster on beach every so often; this is not a forced-labor camp), sleep, walk, knit, read, and create. Notice what came first? (Not necessarily in that order, I should add!) I watched Miss Potter again last night, and knit. See, not all bad!
My “true treasures of home” . . . here the children are this morning, a rare moment in peaceable kingdom; and I did not order them into this position (like I even could) — But, this togetherness won’t last; already you notice Girl’s face is saying, “Take him back, I’m begging you; look at him . . . he’s looking at me again. Make him stop.” And he is repeating the same question over and over at a thousand words a minute, “What’d she say, what’d she say, what’s she saying? Tell me what she said!”
And while I’m consumed with my work, and Jack is consumed with Girl, the world continues to turn; fall arrived yesterday, and was crowned with a sunset rainbow last night, right outside our front door! I think I have never seen brighter colors on a rainbow! It’s supposed to be cool and dry for at least a week; I’m wearing a sweater right now; we had to put a down comforter on the bed last night (windows open, crisp ocean breeze coming in, heaven)! Joe and I just planned a leaf-peeping, four-day getaway for the end of this month for a surprise for us, since we have been working so hard. Meanderment (meandering wonderment) in the van . . . no plan! Back roads! New England!!! Leaves! Ponds! Oh my. Dreamy.
And, on the other side of the house from the rainbow, this was the sky . . . everything so beautiful on Martha’s Vineyard in the fall, everything except our kitchen.
Which I won’t show you, it is too much of a nightmare. Having an old house with lots of nooks and crannies, wainscoting, chair rails, window trim, scalloped aprons hanging from the ceiling and the like, are, 99.9% of the time, so wonderful I have no words. That other .1% — is when you have to paint them. Joe is doing a great job. He has the patience of Job.
It will never be done. But I don’t care . . . he does that; I paint; we plan our getaway; Girl plots revenge; Jack keeps us laughing; everyone is staying out of trouble. Life is good in the Heart of the Home. Hope it’s the same for you! ♥ Have a wonderful day!
P.S. Leave me a little message (be sure to mention where you’re from! Inquiring minds want to know, right Girlfriends?) and you’ll be entered into a contest for a FREE, signed copy of my (out of print) AUTUMN BOOK! You may already have it, but wouldn’t it make a wonderful gift for someone you love? ‘Cause it’s that time of year! ♥
Susan, I love your blogs that keep me in tune to what you’re doing. They are such peaceful restfull blogs……I love them. (P.S. I’d love a copy of your Autumn book)
Fall is the absolute best time of the year and your book would be the perfect frosting to top it off!
Thank you for all the previews of your new book, especially your color palette of paints–SO lovely and can’t wait to see the finished product. Glad to have the needed rain this weekend, but am envious that I missed your beautiful rainbow here in Chatham–we never really cleared out and even had some rain this Monday a.m. Another blogger had a picture of the same rainbow in Plymouth with the faint hint of a second rainbow above! However, my favorite picture is the flowers in the window–I wish I had your garden!
Flowers and kitties, always so cheerful!
Oh what joy your blog brings me! It never fails to lift my spirits and send me forth with enthusiasm and good cheer. I have your Autumn book open on the dining room table where it inspires me each time I walk past. Autumn is almost here!!! My very favoritest (is that a word?) season of all. Yea sweater weather!
It’s a word!
oh ! I’d love one of your books ! But the one of england will have to be a must… because we were part of it, you took us along on your journey ! ;-)))))
I know, I couldn’t have done it without you!
I have just written ” A Journey to my Mother’s land “…
It’s all my memories as a child aged 11 of a journey around Scotland with my 3 brothers and 2 sisters !
But it is in french, and I don’t know if I will find a publisher.That’s when I am jealous… I can’t draw as well as you write and draw… snif ! :-))
Beatrix Potter and Jane Austen self published. xo
Hi~
My friend just self ~ published a book on Lulu. I’m not exactly sure how it works but you might want to take a look.
Good Luck!
🙂 I won’t compare myself to Jane Austen or Béatrix Potter… But I might do it just for my family… Who knows ?
Lynn, what’s your friends name??
xxx
Hi Nicole~
His name is James Nielsen and his book was published last month.
thanks lynn !
The new book looks amazing! Can’t wait! LOVE Autumn—it is finally here in Indiana too! Crisp air, bright blue sky with extra fluffy clouds, sweatshirts—all YUMMY!!
Isn’t fall wonderful? My favorite season. I do have your book, but I have
the perfect friend who needs a copy. The same friend who I begged to let me have this book when we found it at the goodwill. How can someone do that, get rid of it? My treasure in finding it.
Thanks for all your creativity, it brings such happiness to our lives, and I do
hope your kitchen is done soon. Cannot wait to see it.
I always think the person must have gone to prison or something 🙂
I do too…
The autumn book is my favorite. As usual love the Jack and Girl pictures and captions Have a beautiful day!!
Debbie
Oh Happy Autumn… I’m dreaming with you!
Oh, I would love to stowaway for your getaway to see the Fall leaves. I’ve always wanted to go to the New England states in the Fall. I’m clear across the country, but I can dream….
It’s pretty amazing I have to say! For a person who grew up out west, my first year was a real eye opener in more ways than one!
O.K., Susan, yes, I already have the Autumn book and I treasure it, but I would love a signed copy – I’d give the present one to my step daughter, who just bought a beautiful home with gorgeous trees in the yard and around the house , so picturesque! Out here in Illinois Autumn is creeping in – some trees have already begun to change – maybe early from the drought this summer. I love your photos and drawings – how about some new “free stuff”, like a new Autumn bookmark? I still have the one from last year and have used it extensively – it’s getting sort of worn.
I’ll see if we can get something going on that!
Hello Susan! I’d love to be entered to win 🙂 Thank you for sharing another wonderful snippet of your life. I find hearing about your artistic process to inspirational!
I can’t wait to see your kitchen when it’s finished, I’ve been enjoying the pictures showing the process. I would love to win the “Autumn Book”, please enter my name into the mix! 🙂
Dear Susan,
I am so glad that you are back! I missed you this past week. Every day I check to see if you have a new blog. I was wondering how the kitchen was coming. Having always lived in old houses in Connecticut, I know all the things that can come up even if you think you are just going to paint! But, you gotta love those nooks and crannies! I was always so happy that we took the time to do it right – and I always loved it afterward. (Note: afterward is the key word.) Keep the creativity flowing because I know we are all looking to re-live our trip. Can’t wait to see the new book.
Hugs and Kisses, Happy September! Lorraine
I’m loving the little peek of the diary you’re giving us! It helps with the anticipation of a new book in the making. It’s been a beautiful morning here with
the windows open to let in the cool air, just love this time of year,too!! All the
wonderful recipes for the season are starting to pop to mind to enjoy for the months ahead. Enjoy the day, Susan!!
Each time I read your blog I’m more convinced we are “kindred spirits”, as Anne with an -E would say. I love that movie and cry each time I see it. I loved it so much I searched high and low until I found the piano music for WHEN YOU TAUGHT ME HOW TO DANCE. I’m patiently waiting for your English Diary. I know it will be a treasure. Maybe I’ll have my cross stitch of Hilltop finished when you finish your diary. In the meantime, I’ve been trying to design a cottage for display with my Beatrix Potter figurines. Mine are a little different from yours. They were made in Scotland. I wasn’t able to get them all before they quit making them, but am pleased with the ones I have. You are inspiring me to do something beyond me.
XOXO That’s what I’m doing too!
Viv–I did the same, tried to find the piano music. Finally had to get someone to order it for me from England! It came and is kind of “3 stages too difficult” for me! Did you get your’s here in the States, and if so, where? Thanks! 🙂
hI Susan,
Well I just go all to pieces when I see you have a new post up.. So excited about the new book. Its looks wonderful even if I couldn’t see it really good. Looking forward to the kitchen pictures. I have been changing everything around here, must be Fall sends us into a Happy frenzy. I’m Happy. A little trip away for you and Joe sounds like fun. The kitties are always a delight.
Nancy Jo
Hi Nancy Jo, glad to see you here!
Thank you for sharing all this with us. I love to see your ‘in the works’creativity; the photos of the Vineyard; the cats; Petey: everything! I know hundreds of people say this to you but I really do appreciate your blog. Thank you.
Thank you Susu! I love your name!
I don’t have it yet … it would make a wonderful gift for ME!! Is that allowed? If it’s not … I’ll just say it’s for someone else.
Thanks for a a boat load of inspiration,
Mary
It’s not only allowed, it’s encouraged!
Hi Susan, It’s so exciting to see your book in progress! It will be a treasure, I’m sure! I put your Autumn book on display in my kitchen this weekend, as fall seemed to arrive overnight here in Michigan, too. We’ve got beautiful sunny days in the low 70’s and cool nights just right for sleeping with windows open.
Are you still reading The Distant Hours? I finished it a couple days ago and was surprised by some of the twists and turns at the end. I haven’t been able to start a new book yet, still living in England near the castle in my mind. Does that happen to you after you finish a book?
We replaced windows in our kitchen last week and they are being stained today. Not as big a project as your kitchen, but it will be nice when finished. I have window sills for the first time. Hmmm….maybe I need some Beatrix Potter figurines now!
Window sills are wonderful things. Heart rocks, shells, tiny jars with flowers, and Beatrix Potter people are just a few reasons I like them!
I think a window with lace curtains and a cat sitting on the sill make for a wonderful home!
My, you have been busy, that is quite a stack of pages!! Looking forward to seeing the finished book, it will be a treasure I am sure.
Good day to think about the “Autumn” book, it is crisp and breezy outside in upstate NY, windows open and sweater each for me and the dog (Gertie Jane). Just brought home some apple cider and planning roasted tomato soup for supper with a side of your luscious Iowa Cornbread – – – – – hmmmmm Camelot!
Autumn is my favorite season…I’ve been waiting and waiting for it to rain just a little bit, and it happened this morning! I feel like building a fire and having hot cocoa. It’s supposed to be in the 80’s later in the week but for now, I’m pretending that autumn is really here. 🙂
Hi Susan,
I really was wondering where you’ve been. When I couldn’t sleep early this morning, your blog was one of the many thoughts that flittered across my mind 🙂 I had’t seen a post in the past few days. I’m so happy to read your post right now. It is a nice way to stop my work for a few minutes and see your work. Thank you for being here…inspiring me.
Janet xoxoxo
HAPPY AUTUMN!! 🙂 Your cats are so cute. We just got a kitten and his name is Mr. Potter (he was found abandoned in a garden pot) :).
Good name!
You are being sooo productive and I am so glad! I can’t wait for the new book and I’m sure the Girlfriends all feel the same way. I hope you are enjoying your trip all over again. It feels like fall here in Fort Wayne, IN too.
Hi Susan! Thanks for the beautiful post. I dream of being an artist like you. Maybe I’ll just pretend!! Can’t wait for the new book. I was hoping you would pick a little grayer blue color for your kitchen!! Love it! So excited to see it all finished! Have a wonderful week. You are my inspiration for homemaking!
Ahhhhhh……Fall! The light of Fall is my favorite. Reading your blog this morning has centered my day.
Hi Susan,
I love every bit of your blog! Living in England myself it was interesting to see your enthusiasm about everything British. I can share this as well because I am Hungarian. I wanted to buy your Autumn book years ago and was very disappointed by being out of print. Now I’ve got the chance to get it.WOW!
Lots of blessings and love,
Andrea
I can’t wait to see your finished diary. A treasure that I’m looking forward to.
Such serenity in Martha’s Vineyard. There’s something about the onset of these fall days that tells us to slow down a bit, to take small steps — like your painting, like Joe’s handywork. (And like both cats actually sitting at the same time!) We feel autumn in the air here in South Bend, In, as the evenings are cooling and morning calls for robes and slippers. Last evening I sat reading Stillmeadow Calendar for September and watching the birds gobble down food as they begin to think about their fall migration. I even had to go get my winter scarf and wrap it around my neck cuz the wind was so chilly — called myself a “hermitesse” as I cozied up to find the last rays of sunshine coming through the trees — bright pink bootie slippers and pink scarf! My daughters would have cracked up (or run in horror!) if they’d seen me sitting out back in that get-up! Today is one of those “I’m not leaving the house” days — filling the birdfeeders, sweeping up the downfall of acorns on the driveway (oh-oh, flash forward to shoveling snow!!!), hanging sheets out to soak up the fresh autumn air.
But what a joy it was to come in for a water break, click on your site, and be able to take a break with your inspirations. What fun to have a fall outing to look forward to. Anxiously awaiting the completion of your book — your drive and dedication are great examples for us all. Thank you, Susan — Ethel
It would be wonderful to have a copy of this book. I love fall and winter, this book would make the coming months that much more fun.
Susan, yours is the first website I go to in the morning and I miss it when you’re gone! Have a great day!
Very nice compliment Janie!
JOY…..HEART-SMILES….GRATEFULLNESS!
I just had to put those words all in caps, because that is how reading the post made me feel !
Ahhhhh…seeing the England Diary wah….hooooo! ♥ ♥ ♥
And your art table with all the paints…..the Angel card of Creativity ( which I believe you are everyday)…..Susan Branch the Angel of Creativity and Friendship and Connection!
Loved seeing your helpers….Petey and Jack in the Heart !
So inspiring…….blessings under the rainbow!
Girl and Jack….they are the best….what a pair of feline fun!
And….the kitchen, it will be “just right”…and your Dad will see in the end …..it is really BLUE! All the hard work…..will result in wonderfullness!
Heart-soaring….thanks for a teriffic kick off to Autumn…….and the thoughts of meanderment!
Happy Monday!
Deb
Thank you back Deb!!
Happy Monday to you, too, Deb from Dixie!
I’ve always wanted to ask you where you are from b/c, just like *Dorothy Ann*, your name “Deb from Dixie” always fascinated me. I already knew that your mom lives in Florida, but now I know where your home is–Alabama!
Haha–I agree! Sue’s dad will see the blue–someday!!–color choosing is such a woman thing! (smile)
Linda
Hi Linda!
Isn’t this amazing….almost 800 comments already….it’s a girlfriend “happy-fest!”
So glad to hear from you….bet you are getting excited about the wedding…….October is right around the corner! Sounds like you have a very special family……what a joyful time.
And……How is the Baby Button doing?
Have a great week!
Deb
Susan,
You appear to have mastered the art of living beautifully and I admire the creativity you show in your writing and colourful paintings. I also love England, but have yet to visit Beatrix Potter’s part of the country.
-Karen
I think we are all ready for autumn…a favorite time of year for so many. Bring it all on…especially the fall colored leaves. Would so love to have your book…along with a gazillion other people.
Good morning Susan. Your artistry is a wonderful thing. I’m the person who can barely draw a stick figure. But…I can and do enjoy others’ talent. And, find joy in small things; I am currently hooked on the San Diego Zoo’s panda cam where you can see a mama and baby boy. You can’t believe the adorableness.
Waiting for Fall from a still very warm Riverside, CA.
Rebecca
Seeing the wonderful glimpse of your England book pages takes me back to my own trip to England! I can’t wait to see your book when it’s finished!
I too have surrounded myself with books on Beatrix Potter ~ find my self so fascinated with her art and her life! What an inspiration she was and is! And so content in her life, which is the magical part!
Blessings and peace Susan!
~ Lisa B in Colorado
Oh my how we envy you the crisp fall weather! It’s another hot, humid day here in So Cal!! Ugh! I know that much of the country suffered all summer and now it’s our turn but I feel whiney anyway!! Our kitchen is s-l-o-w-l-y coming together! Like Joe, my husband is very patient although when the cabinet guy gave him the materials list this weekend he wasn’t too happy! So the list is being turned over to the professionals today! Oven and stovetop fit check today! Tell Joe – it won’t be pretty & he’ll be happy to be tending to the details in your kitchen!
Have a great week ahead! Thanks for letting me vent – feel better already! 😉
I was waiting for your post! Always a treat to see it pop up. Love the pictures of your work table and Joe with his head under the scallops.
Question: Do you have your text edited before you start hand lettering?
I try to do it. For the cookbooks, yes, but it’s different when writing a diary. I figure it’s real, so if there are mistakes, that will be real too.
I would love to win the Autumn book! That has always been one of my favorites! I love the blog! Thanks for the beautiful previews!!
The Autumn book was the second book of yours that I purchased. I received the Christmas book and devoured it and ran across the Autumn book and couldn’t even put it down to watch my son play baseball that evening!!!
I’m excited to see your English Diary but am even more excited in anticipation of the little book about the memories of your Grandma …. the post you did last Christmas…I believe it’s going to be put into a little book right???
Yes, but it will be a while I’m afraid!
You are such an inspiration. Thanks for keeping me focused on my projects. Your energy keeps me going.
Hi Susan,
Thanks for your usual cheerful update…i love the watercolors. I enjoy the comments about the kitties..so glad I am not the only one who creates conversations between the cats…it’s a daily occurrence in my house.
Would love a copy of your Autumn book.
Enjoy this beautiful fall like day.
Nancy from Rochester, NY
Susan, I love what you’ve been up to!!!!! It’s going to be so fabulous. I’m busting at the seams (not too attractive, I might say) wondering when your English Diary will be available for us!?!???? The suspense!!! I can’t wait to savor each and every word, page, illustration, photograph.
Yes, it feels like fall here too in the midwest. I love the crispness to the air, it feels and smells so clean!
Hope your week is splendid!!! Enchanting. Creatively inspiring (looks like you have that one well covered) and Blessed!
xoox, Jeanette
Can’t wait to see your new book! I love all your books and calendars too!
You are a dear, sweet girl and I am thankful for you!
thank you …..
Life is beautiful through your eyes…
It’s such a treat to see your work space and where all of your words and illustrations come alive! I was wondering…how does she get up so early in the morning? Then I realized; you have so much you are eager to do, the day shines bright! What a great mindset!
I am so looking forward to your book, I think you are going to inspire a lot of us to make a trip to beautiful England! And what a wonderful keepsake for yourself!
Have a wonderful day!
XO,
Jane From Chicago
Hi Susan, I have all your books but would love an autographed copy! Thanks for the sneak peek; can’t wait for the English Diary. A mini vacation between the covers. Happy painting and remodeling. Happy FALL…the very BEST time of year!
susan, lovely thoughts to read. it is ‘fall’ here in oregon today. the rain washed everything clean and it prompts me to clean house . but the clean smell in the air begs me to go for a walk and enjoy the day [the weather won’t stay like this ]. please enter me in the contest for your autumn book. yes, i have it but i could gift my daughter-in-love a copy. wouldn’t that be sweet? i have chosen a walk instead of cleaning. the cobwebs can wait till later. clean fresh rain calls louder! great day to you. b
Your blog is so lovely. I enjoy coming here and seeing all the beauty. You’re artwork is so pretty.
I went to a used booksale on Saturday and found your “Sweets to the Sweet” book for 50 cents. I have never seen this one before! I was so excited! And it is just like new!
Have a lovely day!
Deal! 🙂
I just pulled out the Autumn Book this past weekend. I love autumn 🙂 I love the book! I guess I have had it for a long time, although it always seems fresh to me when I read it. I am going to make the French chicken soup for dinner tonight.
I cannot wait for your new book. Your books are always lying about in my home and my daughter was shocked, literally shocked! that I can write to you. And that you sometimes write back! (She is 13) You will be part of her as she has been influenced by your books, and when she is an adult, she will remember fondly how I “copied” you and how you were part of every season in our home. A very nice legacy if you ask me. (Interestingly, she is an artist as well)
I would love a copy of your AUTUMN book! Autumn is my absolutely favorite time of year and I have tried to find a copy of this book but so far I have been unsuccessful. AND I love your blog. I always feel so invited in and happy while reading it. Thank you for your delightful way…
I can’t wait to see your new book. I love each book and calendar!
I love Autumn! I love still warm afternoons and wool socks at night. I love the colors of the trees. I love the harvest of grapes, apples and pumpkins. I love hot tea as the fog rolls in off the coast. I love the ritual of “back-to-school, with it’s mandatory ( in my mind!) red mary jane shoes. I love fresh pencils and erasers and composition books. I love corduroy jumpers and tights with boots. I love long evenings with smocking or a beautiful book.
Your English Diary looks and sounds beautiful! Oh I can’t wait to see it!
And yes, please enter me to win your signed “Autumn” book! I so would love to win.
I hope your day is beautiful and filled with joy.
Sivje
Sivje,
I love your reminiscences of fall! I love corduroy jumpers–when I was young, fall meant getting out my corduroy pants. It was fun walking around the house just to hear that “scritch-scritch” sound. And “red shoes”–I always wanted a pair of RED back-to-school shoes. Usually I just got basic brown, but one year my parents caved in and let me buy RED. I was SO happy and I never regretted those shoes. I loved them!
Hi Sivje!! I found you here! hee hee hee… Love Susan right along with you.
Would love to win a copy of your book. Autumn my favorite time. I have taken off on fall trips like you are planning and they are the best.
I love hearing about your home on Martha’s Vineyard-you make me want to come and enjoy the sights you describe so beautifully. I am looking so forward to the new book-please hurry and get it done!!! I already have The Autumn book but would love to have another signed by you copy. Keep up the good work-I LOVE it!!!
Oh Susan, your new book is looking amazing, you are beyond creative~ Such a thrill to read your blog and see your corner of the world. Hugs, Sharon in Ohio
I cannot wait for the book to be finished. I am soooo looking forward to reading all about your adventures. I followed you everyday on your blog. I just loved all your illustrations and descriptions. Felt like I was there with you.
Good morning Susan!
Yes….Fall is here too!! Cool-ish and wonderful blue skies.
Rain is lovely too, but this is a pleasant break.
My glittered pumpkins and spooky-boo’s are calling me to get them
out of their confinement and let them find their places on mantels, doors, windows and any nook and cranny. 🙂 I DO love to decorate for Fall and Halloween. 🙂
Cannot WAIT for the new book!!!! Hurry!!!! 🙂
Susan- I have many of your books. Right now I’m working on filling your recipe binder with all our family recipes for special occasions and the holidays to pass on to my daughter so she can have them all in one lovely place. Thanks so much for the fun you’ve brought into our book-loving hearts.
Linda
Hi Susan,
Thank you for the tour of Happy Land…beneath a rainbow no less! You sure have been hard at work…you and Joe, Girl and Jack (what a lovely family) you make it all look like a breeze 🙂
A peek into your studio, what a special treat! The stack of finished pages was a delight to see…your talent is simply breathtaking. (sometimes it might be hard to step back and appreciate your work the way others do…)
Do you create your page on watercolor paper then store the finished page with backing board and a plastic sleeve? How are you able to combine the photograph and artwork on your finished page?
Thank you for sharing. You are so generous with your time and heart.
Enjoy your autumn trip…looking forward to hearing all about it!
Hugs,
Christy in (humid and a bit too warm) Orange County, CA (at least it is finally September!)
Seeing those “done” pages of the new book had my heart “eeeeking” with anticipation! Can’t wait until it is finished and we can all enjoy England again through your eyes. I LOVE autumn….my veins flow with creativity….my brain becomes over-stimulated with ideas and projects. George Eliot said it best, “Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking successive autumns” Enjoy these inspiring cool sweater mornings!
Your blog is beautiful and your books look amazing.
Susan, your Autumn book, I believe, was the one that introduced me to you! Checked it out at my local library. The following Christmas, my wonderful hubby surprised me with it for Christmas with a few of your other books! Love every one and they bless me every time I look at them! I’ll have to mention to him that you are preparing a new book! How excited for all of us who love you!
Your blog makes me so happy! I loved this “It will never be done. But I don’t care . . . he does that; I paint; we plan our getaway; Girl plots revenge; Jack keeps us laughing; everyone is staying out of trouble. Life is good in the Heart of the Home. Hope it’s the same for you! ”
It is exactly the same for me……living in the mountains in Northern California..pretty hard on a home, especially with a hubby who loves to do and redo ……We have been together for 39 years and I finalley “gave” him free reign to fix ,change, repair, play, paint, and whatever, as long as there is at least 1 cosy space to sit by the fire in the fall and winter and in the garden in the spring and summer! He will retire in December and my week end contractor will be full time! yippeee can’t wait! Maybe 1 room will be completely done!
LOL!
You are such an inspiration – I would much rather print something by hand than to type it! How VERY happy I would be to win a copy of your book, Autumn! Enjoy a marvelous Monday~smiles.
I wonder why few things make my spirit sing louder than seeing pans of paint in many glorious colours? I cannot paint for toffee (or for anything else for that matter) but an array of colours like that and my spirit dances wild . .
This very afternoon, after scrubbing the paintwork around my bedroom skirtings and pelmets I know all too well the joys of nooks and crannies! Happy Days and Autumn Blessings . .
Thank you for the post, Susan! I stop by here as I take breaks from my own writing. I immerse myself in that other world of 1846 Pennsylvania, but sometimes I do have to come up for air!
Thank you for the refreshing inspiration 🙂
Now, back to work – for both of us! I can hardly wait to wander around England through the pages of your book!
Dear Susan, can you please post a blog about all the ways you get ready for Fall? we just moved into a new house and I’m very excited about decorating for my favorite season but I’m at a loss. I’ve switched my dish towels to my Fall ones; I’m sure you can appreciate how fun that was! I’d also love to win your Autumn book 🙂 I’ve been beside myself with joy about these cold mornings we’ve had here in IL lately!
Hey, Girlfriends!
Maybe we can give Shanon some of our fall decorating ideas!
So Shanon, here goes: My Fab Five Autumn Ideas:
1. I always buy lots of those very small pumpkins and gourds. Sometimes I put them all in a basket. Sometimes I run them down the center of my dining room table as decoration. You can also carve out the middle of a small pumpkin and place a candle in it.
2. Mums!! I love them and they are very fall-ish! You can pot them and put them on your front step or porch. (Make sure you have more than one.) I planted one mum in a garden urn and brought it inside.
3. Fall colored tablecloths, candles or placemats.
4. A fall wreath for your front door.
5. I love looking out in my garden for the last flowers of the summer season. There’s something beautiful about mixing them with your pumpkins, gourds, etc.
Hope this has ignited your imagination, Shanon!
Who wants to share next? I’d love to hear from ALL the girlfriends. You all have such cozy, fun ideas!
Linda from Lancaster
OK, here’s one, I like to do something fallish in the kitchen on the first coldish day . . . make jam, so I have it for holiday gifts, or make chicken stock so it bubbles all day, something that makes a wonderful smell, warms the house and all the people in it.
I’m a gardener at heart so when Autumn comes, I love to gather up nature and bring it indoors ~ baskets of pinecones from the back yard, chestnuts and acorns on the windowsill. I’ve gathered up small twigs, clipped them all to the same length, tied a piece of twine or raffia around them and then just lay them in front of a favorite picture frame.
Also, as I gather the beautiful colored leaves in my neighborhood, I press them between sheets of wax paper to preserve them. They always go on my windowsill, my mantel or on the Thanksgiving table later.
Thank you all for the ideas! Love the small pumpkins as decoration idea and also cooking something wonderful that will fill my house with delicious smells! Yesterday I cooked a whole chicken and it made my house smell amazing 🙂 Last weekend it was a Cream Cheese Pound Cake. Love Fall so much but not what it does for my diet!
Here in Minnesota I like to put mums and pumpkins out on the front porch of our townhouse next to the wooden barrel, then once we’ve gotten a couple of hard frosts and the pumpkins start to go to “mush”, I put the dried mum plants in their place and put evergreen branches with red dogwood branches in the wooden barrel…
Susan, I will never forget when I was thumbing through your Autumn book at a store and saw the recipe for Potato Bugs. I bought it on the spot. And at least once ( if not more) when I get together with friends for our fall celebration ( called Pumpkin Night) I serve the Potato Bugs…and everyone loves them! I cannot WAIT for your England Book. Make sure that lots and lots of copies are printed of these.
OK I will, and I’ll also tell my brother Stephen you said that about his Potato Bugs! 🙂
What a gorgeous and inspiring blog post. I’m so inspired by you, Susan and your art!! Fall brings such wonderful memories and a sense of renewal. Your recipes are a favorite in our home!
Thank you so much Mabelle!
Thank you for the inspiration~Enjoy the crispness in the Autumn air! I ♥ Autumn!
Hi Susan! I can’t wait to get the new book, it looks wonderful! You are so talented, I don’t know how you manage to paint all of those darling pictures. We will also be on vacation at the end of the month. No plans for us yet either. It’s nice to know that we will just “be free” to do whatever. Thank you for sharing the book in progress and all the joy you bring. Ps. Beautiful fall day here… blue blue sky and wonderful 60-70’s temperatures. Luv ya!
I agree. Your blog is the best way to start off a day and I, too, check it first everytime I sit down at the computer.
Western WA had its first fall shower last night. The temperatures are dropping off and the sun is setting earlier than we’d like it to. My husband and I starting a new adventure, he began his retirement this month! He promises not to interfer with my “creative” time and I promised not to interfer with his golf. LOL
Retirement vows!
LOL!!!
Your book looks wonderful, will be a real treasure to have. I hope you take your camera on your trip, we love those pictures!
Addicted to camera too!
Just one question: Is your leaf trip a true “get-away” or are you taking us along with you…? 🙂
I’m taking the camera but not the computer!
Good idea (not taking the computer) but does that mean you will put some of the photos on your blog later on? 🙂
I’m sure I will! I don’t think I can help myself, it will be so pretty!
That is what it is like when we go to Wisconsin in the Fall–gorgeous leaves, beautiful views, antique shops…I’m sort of wondering what it will look like after our weird unseasonably warm weather this year…just think how wonderful to come home to the “new” kitchen! 🙂
good morning susan and joe, hello everyone 🙂 , Fall is here as well, and i’m loving it. the mornings are so cool and the air is so crisp, like a fresh picked apple. we are seeing a bit of color, but i can’t wait for all the color to just explode out and have weeks of glorious fall colors around, red, golden and brown leaves on trees, acorns on the ground and busy lil squirrels gathering them up to stash for winter. the light is more golden, and air so crisp. definitely this morning was a perfect time for a walk in the hills and to see what was out and about, the deer are out and moving and we have a flock of turkeys in the hills, hope they come my way and stay awhile. its the most perfect time of the year. have my quilt design on the front door window with window clings, and i’m working on my designs for the sliding glass doors to the front porch. i love love love this time of year. time to pause and drink in the beauty of our surroundings and mother nature, and to give thanks for such bounty. Happy Fall everyone!!! have a wonderful and beautiful day today everyone. sending lots of hugs to you all…….. 🙂
We get turkeys in our yard too, always so decorative in the fall!
i love it when the turkeys come to visit, and especially when they show up with the deer in the yard, makes it all so beautiful and peaceful. it just feels like Autumn here…. can’t wait for it be official!!!!! hugs… 🙂
We walked in the West Chop woods this morning and I took a video of a wild mother turkey and her two little ones. Later we saw them across the road further down Franklin. Are these the ones you find in your yard?
Hard to tell them apart, but I would think they might be! Sometimes we have maybe 4 or 5 adults, and lots of little kiddies, the “flocks” come in all sizes.
Hmmmm…I think I’ll send our local wild turkey’s your way. I hate it when they are out in our yard when I have to take the schnauzers outside–the turkeys are larger and probably weigh more than either Fanny OR Betti!!! LOL!
🙂
You are starting to remind me of that Woody Allen quote: “I am two with nature.” 🙂
I know it sounds kind of funny but I think our wild turkeys here are more aggressive than yours. We have a LOT of them here. There have been newspaper articles warning people to watch them around their “little people” (kids) as the turkeys will go after them if they have babies around. Then there was an article about a big group of them that had been hand-fed, obviously, and wouldn’t let people get on the bus at their bus stop as they were wanting to be fed! LOL! I know it sounds funny but frankly I think they look kind of ugly, sort of like buzzards–not like pretty “Thanksgiving-style turkeys”, and I sure wouldn’t want my “kids” to tangle with them! 🙂
The air is FINALLY getting crisp here in southern AL…winning your signed Autumn book would only add to my excitement of the cooler days ahead! Thank you for your never ending generosity!
I would love to win a copy of your Autumn book! I think it’s the only one I don’t have. And it is my favorite season, after all 🙂
I loved catching up with you today. Congratulations on sixty pages! Slowly, but surely, the book is coming together! I can’t wait to read it when it’s all said and done! The photo of your rainbow is gorgeous. What vivid colors! I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a bright rainbow, ever. Life is good here too. I am glad we are both smiling, and it is Fall…the most magical season of all! Have a wonderful week! xo
Rosinda
Fall arrived (hopefully) in south central Missouri over the weekend, too, preceded by wind, storms and some much needed rainfall. Hopefully the cooler temps will hold and the 90’s and 100’s of this summer are gone for good!
I love your blog and website; I recently discovered it by accident. I have since added visiting Martha’s Vineyard to my list of places to visit.
Can’t wait for the diary to be published. How about a little visit to Maine for your leaf peeping get-a-way? I love hearing about your kitties. We got our kitten Bodie several months ago and now don’t know how we existed without him. Have a wonderful day! Anne
I can’t wait for your new book! It will be a wonderful addition to my “Susan Branch” library! Thanks for the hours of enjoyment you have brought me and all the other girlfriends.
Fran from California
Autumn is my absolute favorite time of year !! I know your book will make me love it even more. This autumn day finds me baking tier 2 of a practice wedding cake I am making for my son’s wedding the end of this month. I have never made a wedding cake before. Top tier turned out perfect — hoping the remaining two turn out just as perfect. Love, Miss Needs Encouragement… 😉
Hi, Judy~
What an act of love….to bake your son’s wedding cake! It will be beautiful, I’m sure!
Please put me in the “Vanna Box”. Thank you!!!
You’re in!
Susan , I have been a fan for so long . I have so many of your cookbooks , and I love every one of them . If I`m looking for a special recipe , I always start with one of your books ! You are truly an inspiration ! I would love to win the Autumn book to give to a friend ! Blessings .
Autumn…yes, one of my favorite books. But a signed copy would be even better. I admit, I would keep the signed copy for myself and gift my original copy to a friend, stains and all. Tee hee!
Autumn! I miss the seasons so much. Here in southern California you have to look very hard for a glimpse of traditional fall weather. Right now its 100F and does not feel like fall at all. By October I’m usually so desperate for the Autumns I grew up with, I hang artificial autumn foliage all around my house. My husband calls it my ‘fake fall’ lol! I don’t care I need it. Turn up the air conditioning and let pretend we are up north and about to go apple picking! 🙂 Thanks for showing us a peek at your new book. I can’t wait to see it when its done 🙂
Oh I would love to win your Autumn book as it will help me imagine how crisp and cool it is by you. It is still 80’s and 90’s in Tampa and I am dreaming of the day I can open my windows and let the cool air in!
I love this: “It is a little strange when you think that at one time these pages did not exist and now, here it is……” — the true joy of creativity! It’s what keeps us creating, again and again.
I already have your Autumn book but I know I wouldn’t have any problem finding someone to give it to!
oh Susan …thank you so much for sharing some snippets of the new book! I had my face pressed right up to my computer screen so I could see as much as I could!! Am I correct in thinking there is another book that you were finishing up? When when can we expect to see it? Hoping soon 🙂
Susan
Cider and donuts and pumpkins and wood smoke…..I LOVE autumn most. Hope to win your book!
Oh, Susan! We leave four weeks from TOMORROW! for seven days in London, York, a few days in Scotland (my husband is golfing at St. Andrews and he can’t even SAY it he’s so thrilled!), to BEATRIX POTTER, and into the Cotswolds for another four days. Our first time — I’ve checked your website a bizillion times in hopes that you would update the journal writing. I took a Rick Steves’ class on Sat. about journaling with sketching and watercolors and was so inspired by that! You are such a dear to take the time to inspire each of us — and you do beyond WORDS!!! You make me put on my sweater and the kettle is on as I clean and look at my wardrobe to pack. I’m writing from Seattle where we got our first rain in forty-eight days! so it was oatmeal for breakfast and fresh, fresh air from the bay. Thank you for all that you are!!!
It was a great day today here in Arizona when I saw your post!!! Autumn is in the air around here, too, way down to 96 degrees! Soon we’ll throw a log in the firepit–tee hee! Can’t WAIT to see your new book, it looks great so far…I am a Potterphile, too and I admire and respect her. Enjoy your mini-cation, wish I could be there, but I know you’ll take pictures to share (I hope 🙂 We only get yellow leaves in the fall in AZ, a big change from Bucks County PA where I am from. I miss the Fall Color at this time of the year, but I know I will enjoy the blogs of your trip! Have a Happy Day!
Here in Memphis, TN we are having cooler temperatures (59 degrees this morning)
and I am ready for fall baking, colorful foliage, art and craft fairs, pumpkin patch, hayrides…I discovered your books when I was in high school and would love to have your Autumn book. Looking forward to your ‘English Diary’!
Ah, FALL…..the most wonderful time of the year. Here in upstate NY there is a definite crispness in the air….especially in the early morning and evenings…Still gets a little warm in the afternoon….but never fear…breaking out the fall receipes and today on the dinner menu is Shepherd’s Pie and a fresh backed Irish soda bread….the house smells great….Like everyone else I am patiently awaiting you new book…it will be so nice to revisit all the places you took us to this summer !!
Yippee a new post to read! Those were my exact words when I clicked on your blog this morning! The book is looking beautiful. Page 60, holy cow, you’ve been crazy busy! It amazes me you hand write every word in your books. It’s one of the many things that make each of your books so very special. All the pictures you’ve included in this post are wonderful! Thank you Susan for taking time out and keeping us up to date with your book, kitchen and kitties! Loved every minute of it! ♥
Even though we aren’t having the same weather here-Phoenix-as there, it’s nice to dream!! Add my name to the list, thank you!!
The bolg is great! Thanks so much for keeping the FOSB at bay with the little teasers!
I am sad hearing that phrase “out of print”! What ARE they thinking? hmmm….ARE they thinking? I think not! The Autumn book is one of my all time favorites and have given it to girlfriends as a housewarming gift, birthday gift, just-because gift! I have a girlfriend in mind who would simply love it…especially now… So, I’ll keep my fingers crossed and maybe I’ll get picked. (Though, then again, it doesn’t seem right for the President of FOSB to win! It’s like winning a prize at your own birthday party!).
Well, dear Sue, keep up the great posts! They love hearing from you and I know they are enjoying the delicious anticipation of your England Journal (just like me!!!). xo peg
Thank you Peg, nice to see you here!
Hi Susan! I’m a stuck-in-suburbia gal wishing for more wide open spaces! A forest, a sea-shore, or a mountain top in the distance would do the trick! Big fan of yours … time to order a new calendar! My kitchen wouldn’t be complete without one! Love seeing your updates … have a great time leaf peeping! I’d love a copy of the Autumn book; bought one for a friend, but never got my own! Thanks for the give away!