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! ♥
We had our first bit of rain overnight here on Bainbridge Island, WA, but the sun is shining today! Leaves are beginning to change and fall, too. I love your work ~ can’t wait for the England book!
What a coincidence! I’ve spent all morning searching through used book stores hoping to get lucky and find your Autumn book with no luck. I would love to win one. Thanks for the peeks at your new book. Can’t wait for it to come out!
Thank You for another nice inspiring blog post. Love the puffy cloud picture.
I also have a Tuxedo cat and she is now 14 years old, she was a feral cat and is now so lovable. I am in California, a native and a pattern designer. Retired teacher enjoying my seventyish seniorism years. Have a dreamy week.
Blessings, Brook
Susan, we are having our first cool day here in Virginia Beach, Va. And I couldn’t be happier! I do have a *much treasured* copy of your Autumn Book (your books are as fun to display as they are to read!!). And, just the other day, I was searching Amazon and E-bay for a copy for a dear girlfriend in Whitehouse, TX. Thank you for the french music, and for the sneak peek at your new project! It is so fun to get to come along side you during this creative process. It’s fascinating and I appreciate you including us on your journey!
Susan dear, you have been an inspiration to me for about eight years or so. Your Autumn book is my second bible. Born in October, I am sooo an Autumn girl. Sending my very best and greetings to you from Reno, NV.
“Pick me, pick, me, pick me!”, she says with a very hopeful heart. Oh how I enjoy your books, and sooooo look forward to the new travel journal! We currently reside in Virginia Beach where Fall hasn’t even dared to peek through. 🙁 I don’t own the Autumn book, but sure would LOVE to! Blessings to you and your beautiful work!
OH! OH! THE BOOK IS INCREDIBLE! but we KNEW it would be!!!! (after all, what have we not loved that you’ve given us, right?) I can hardly wait! And now, I feel obsessed, waiting for the book to go into print. Your work is absolutely lovely. The book is charming. I can’t tell you how invigorating this blog was……..I could smell the crisp,sweet, fresh ocean air coming through the windows at your house (I have all my windows open today, enjoying the gorgeous weather) and I just feel all the wonders of Fall you have surrounding you. Your life is a sweet fairy tale and you are sharing it with us. I loved the quote by Beatrix Potter (about peace and contentment) that you had in your blog that I’ve recorded it on the inside page of my “Happy Journal.” I feel so blessed and content and your blog is part of what tops it off and makes life good for me. (No. I don’t have a “perfect” life with no problems, and neither do you, but that’s the thing about your blog and all the girlfriends…….we look beyond that and focus on the blessings that make life special. ) Thank you for all you do for us! I was going to write, anyway, I couldn’t help myself! But it’s absolutely divine that I get to be entered in the contest, too!
A happy journal, such a good idea!
It is refreshing to read about your life on Martha’s Vineyard. The arrival of fall weather is something I look forward to, though it hasn’t arrived here in Lancaster, CA yet. Autumn is my favorite season. Thank you for sharing with us!
Reporting in from The Swamp called Florida. Signs of fall are few and far between in the land of 10 month summer, but we pulled the fried geraniums from the front door pots this morning and put in coleus, which at least have the colors of fall in them. My copy of your Autumn book is on display on a bookshelf and I’m planning on watching Little Women this afternoon which always puts me in a Fall mood. I can only pray that ‘our’ diary has a gazillion pages, but will settle for a nicely thick one that might get published in my lifetime. :). So happy to know you and Joe are planning a peepers holiday and looking forward to some pictures. You are too good to us. Thank you. Love, Stacey
I love Autumn!!!!!!! The smells of cooking, apple cider, and the gorgeous colors of the tree leaves are so satisfying to me. We live in Prescott Valley, Az. and get to celebrate each season of the year. It’s just lovely as is your work, Miss Susan! I look forward to winning your book, (crossed fingers!) and perusing it to my heart’s content. Thank you!
As you know, September on the Central Coast is the warmest time of the year. Fog is gone and it is finally our summer, with warm and sunny days. (Girlfriends who are not familiar with our area, we are on the coast of California where the summers you usually wake up to fog, that mostly burns off by mid morning, but not always.) Enjoy your creative journey back to England!! You always seem to inspire me with some idea.
I would love the Autumn book ~Vannah pick me!
From our nation’s capital! My, your home is buzzing with creative energy! Is the house levitating? lol I have a collection of your books, and Autumn would be a perfect addition! So put my name in the jar! Have a wonderful day! t
Here in Bethany Beach Delaware it is finally Fall! The last (we hope) of the heat and humidity left us yesterday and now we enjoy cool dry beach air…perfect! Autumn Book will sit on my coffee table……happily.
OOOOOHHH! So excited to see the BOOK taking shape! That is much anticipated and I am happy you are working so hard! Goody! Goody!
It is not quite fall here in the north of Dallas area of Texas…but we did break out of the 105* on Friday to a high in the 80’s on Saturday, which was so welcome. The energy level goes up as the temp. goes down, for me, at least. We are going to take a fall in New England trip in mid October to Mystic, Connecticut to meet our 3 other couple friends. I was wishing for a side trip to Martha’s Vineyard but I guess not this time. So, will live through your musings and pictures and enjoy it immensely. Thank you for all of time you take to share the Martha’s Vineyard experience.
Awaiting Autumn’s arrival in Alabama. Cooler evenings have been glorious!
I have Heart of the Home, Vinyard Seasons, Christmas and Sweets to the Sweet…..I would love to add Autumn to my collection!
I can’t wait for the diary! It’s fun to have something fun to look forward to! I already have the autumn book, so I told my daughter if I win she will get it. She was happy. I will be doing some transplanting today. I’m starting to feel better after all that withdrawal nastiness-thanks for well wishes and bowed heads!
We have had a delightful foretaste of Autumn here in Central Texas. After
100+ days and nights in the humid mid-seventies, it’s wonderful to have mornings in the 60’s. The journal is beautiful and growing amazingly! I would love to win
your Autumn book – it would provoke awe and envy in this Texas girl. Katherine
There’s a hint of fall in the air here in southwest Louisiana, which for us means under 90 degrees and a little drier. I would love to live somewhere with actual, REAL seasons! I recently tracked down a copy of your Autumn book for myself (the only one I was missing) and have been drooling over the pages ever since! I taunted my sister in Oklahoma with a picture of the page with the recipe for the seared scallops, corn chowder and mashed potates and told her we were having that this week; so if I won the (squee!!) AUTOGRAPHED copy I would pass my current copy on to her and we could make it together!
i would love to earn the Autumn book. I am from Newport Beach Ca and now live in Henderson Nv. I love the blog and adore the cat Jack he is so cute love to youand Joe I would love to have that book i dont have one i hope to some day i will keep praying for it though . Thank you so much love Cheyenne xxxooo
Here is Joplin MO we are having our first hint of fall…54 degrees this morning, chilled my toes as I fed the cats and gave the dogs their treat. Makes me think of baking goodies! Good for you for planning a get-away, hubby and I just returned from a long week-end on the lake. Now I am refreshed and ready to paint chocolate themed cards for an upcoming show.
Can’t wait for your book to be done:)
Add my name to the list of autumn lovers! I would love a copy of your “Autumn” book and can’t wait for your English Diary to be on sale. Autumn is slowly creeping in here in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We enjoyed a rainbow on Friday!
Walking out in the morning lightness this past Saturday was like Christmas for me…FALL was in the air! Seriously like a kid in a candy store – I baked Pumpkin Pecan Chocolate Chunk cookies to celebrate and entered them in the local county fair, meandered through a garden supply store, filled to overflowing with autumnal mums, pumpkins and hay bales and had dinner al fresco with friends. What a day! Autumn is my absolute favorite time of year and releases the creative muse within like a whirling dervish! I would love to add your Autumn book to my “happy thoughts library”!
It’s hot & humid here in So. Calif. (La Crescenta – the foothills above Glendale). Even the animals are longing for fall! They come down from the hills in search of water. Yesterday there was a bear on the freeway!
I’m still going to put out my autumn decorations!
Your book looks great!
I am thinking of a fall get-a-way trip to look at the leaves and to get some apples and pumpkins. Can’t wait for the new book. Please, put my name in the cup for the drawing. Hope you have a wonderful autumn and get everything done on your list. thanks, joyce
Here I am in Peoria Illinois! Can you see me? LOVE what you’re doing with the kitchen! And thank you for the sneak peek of the pages of your English diary…. can’t wait! Thank you!!
Of course I have (and have given many of) your “Autumn” book, but would absolutely treasure a signed copy. So excited that Fall is arriving! My maple tree is just beginning to drop her colorful leaves and I’ve begun my daily treasure hunt. Began putting out my Fall decos this weekend and a leafy window garland will be happening soon. I saw a quote last week, “A fallen leaf is nothing more than Summer’s wave good-bye.” Isn’t that lovely? Makes my heart hum. “Happy Fall” from northern California.
The sneak peaks of your new book are as charming as all of your other books, Susan. I so enjoyed following along on your English journey and really look forward to seeing your experiences again in book form. Autumn is my favorite time of year here in western Pennsylvania–the cool nights, crisp leaves, bright blue skies… I can’t imagine living in a place where I couldn’t enjoy all four seasons. How I would love to receive an autographed copy of your Autumn book–keeping my fingers crossed 🙂
Inquiring Minds I would love to have the book Autumn i will get ur England book when u release it Thank you for showing us the new book and of couse Jack and his sister she is so cute and regal she is like my mama girl who we lost a while back like i told u i have several of those black n white cats they are the best id love to have a boy too like Jack so full of life . love to you Please pick me i need the book to feel better thank you love Cheyenne
Susan,
Your talent is inspiring, and looking at your charming artwork blesses my heart! Thanks for the peek at your journal – looks fabulous.
After a brutally hot, dry summer in Iowa, I am so anxious for fall. We had lovely, 70 degree temps over the weekend, and our trees in northern Iowa are just beginning to yellow. I’ve already made quite a few batches of homemade apple butter (from the tree in our yard)! I would love to receive your Autumn book. I’m sure it’s beautiful.
Leigh
Hi, from Jefferson, Arkansas. It has finally cooled here, too. I hope that Autumn is on its way here but we usually stay warm until Christmas. But I will take temperatures in the 80s any day. I have been looking for your Autumn Book and have been unable to find one, so I would love to have Vanna chose me!!!!
Autumn is my favorite time of year and I love everything associated with the season, so much so, that I have decorated my home with Autumn in mind. Can’t wait for the English Diary. God Bless you and yours! -Donna
Please put my name in the hat. Ever since I have graduated from college, I have loved autumn so much more. However, this year I am sad that the apple crop is just pitiful and some of the u-pick orchards aren’t letting u-pick. It is quite sad. This book would perk me up (hint, hint, wink, wink).
It feels like Fall today in New Hampshire. So happy to have it beginning. I feel a bit like squirrels and chipmunks…… starting to feel like I need to get ready for winter. Several years ago I gave my 4 closest friends each of copy of AUTUMN. They weren’t familiar with your books and I must have regaled them with stories of your art, your crafts and my undying admiration for your talents. I have had my AUTUMN book on my nightstand for several weeks now, waiting for the time to get started. You, your life, your art and your words (and now your photos, videos and blog) mean so much to so many. Can’t wait for the new Diary.
I am sending warm wishes from Rochester, NY! Was vacationing on the Vineyard just last week! Missing the sand in my shoes and the sound of the ocean.
Looking forward to the new book.
Greetings from Florida. Still summer and swimming days to enjoy. In October I bring out the pumkins and read your Autumn book. No matter the temps outside! Love your blog so very much.
Mary
Oh I should have known you’d be thinking of Miss Potter as I was going to watch it too lol I’ve already seen it, but it’s just that good!
My daughter is now in College and moved to Charlottetown. Just about an hour and 45 minutes from me. I miss her, but it’s so good for her. She’s going into illustration 🙂 which means, my youngest, 7 year old Rilla, is going to get her own room (except when Emily is home lol) She wants pink, of course 😉 so i’ll be doing a redecorating job, too 🙂 She wants rainbows galore. I’m still trying to figure out how to do that for her, but will start with the blush rose first lol (she has Rose in her name, so must have rose for paint 😉
Can’t wait to see your kitchen, i just love a room all done up nice and fresh, then the decorating! ahhhhhh
I put out your autumn book, just this morning and some fall things to decorate with. If I won your book, I’d keep it for my girls. They hear so much about you, that Rilla is sure she knows you now lol … Hopefully one day you’ll get here to PEI 😉
Must go, new story has come to my mind and so wants to get written out.
Have a delicious day! Can’t wait to see the new book!!!!!
Love,
Denise of Ingleside
Hi Susan,
Like the rest of Southern California (except the coast), beautiful Temecula is hot and humid. It is not normal for it to be this hot for this long and I am waiting for that first sign of fall. Miss Potter is one of my all time favorite movies and I tear up just thinking about it. Even my daughter and grand daughters love it. I have been to England and loved it, but now I want to go back and visit the places you went to. Can’t wait for your diary!
Is there such a thing as “blog osmosis? ” If so, then I have you to thank for my unexpected and compelling urge to more thoroughly caption, journal and decorate my old scrapbooks, photo books and blog books. (Who says one can’t embellish an already printed book?)
You can do it! Good for you, it does make a difference!
Here in Buckhannon, West Virginia we are harvesting the rest of our garden today. It is sweater weather here too. In the evenings that is. Yesterday on a drive there were yellow daisy like flowers, mauve Joepye weed, Goldenrod and dark purple Ironweed flowers in bloom along the road. I love the colors mother nature brings into bloom in autumn.
I’m thrilled you are doing a book of your trip! What fun it will be to relive it with you……almost as much fun as the first time! Thanks so much for brightening the world with your wonderful attitude! With much gratitude…….Pat from Georgia!
we are starting to get a taste of fall here – warm days and cooler nights. this weekend it even smelled a little (cool, crisp) like fall. and football is back on TV, so I know where to find my husband – he isn’t in the yard as much as he’s in front of the telly. and I feel like baking again! I love fall – sweater weather, baking time, high school football (so fun now that nephew is playing!), sleeping with the windows open… YAY for Autumn! (and yay for the Autumn book!)
I just saw “pre-orders”, and I smiled broadly!!! How beautiful every page! You really pour out your heart and soul with your glorious creativity into each and every page!!! ♥♥♥ I truly believe that it’s the reason that your books are read over and over again and love soooooo much!
Thank you for the wonderful post! it’s turned cooler here – yesterday and for the week – NOW I FEEL like Fall cleaning and decorating!!! Yeah!!!!
thanks, Susan! ♥♥♥
Here in St. Louis it is finally beautiful. We had such a HOT summer it was hard to enjoy doing anything. Windows open, sun is out and evenings are perfect. Autumn is my favorite time of year and would love to add your Autumn book to my collection. I have told so many of my friends about your trip and sent them to your blog. Looking so forward to your new book.
Hello Susan from a Portland Maine fan! I love the Summer Book which I have and read over and over again. Would love to have the Autumn Book – perhaps my favorite season! Have a wonderful getaway enjoying the terrific and inspiring foliage.
Hi Susan, I would love to have a copy of your Autumn book. I have bought copies for other people, but don’t have one myself. It is actually chilly here today. I think I will put on a sweater!!! I love fall. Thanks for this post!!!! Can’t wait for your diary!!!
Dear Susan,
Love the book! Hope you’re having a great week!! I just spent some time planting trees. Your blog inspires me!
I am writing from the Eastern Shore of Maryland where we have a beautiful blue sky and temperatures in the 70’s today – such a relief from the intense heat & humidity of the summer. I am afraid that I had not discovered your work when the “Autumn Book” was published, but Fall is my favorite season and I would be honored to receive a copy of the book. I read your blog during my lunch hour here at work and enjoy it so much. It is so interesting to watch as you create this new book. Can’t wait for its publication!
Oh, I can’t wait to see your new book … and your “new” kitchen. I have been wanting to paint our living room but it is so open to other parts of the house, that I would have to paint the foyer, kitchen and a long hallway also. Not quite up to that big a job. Maybe after Christmas, we will start. But then we want to make a new sidewalk from the front door to half way down our driveway. It will have several steps and a couple of landings plus new gardens around the trees. Then there is the upstairs room that needs painting plus new flooring. I guess the list never ends, does it?
And all I can think about is our two week trip to Italy in November. So everything else will take a backseat to that.
Debbie in Fort Worth, TX
Hello! (I hope this message is not too little) XD XD
:::::
I love autumn too.
Best wishes from Spain.
Hello to Spain!
Susan, the England Diary looks wonderful. I can’t wait to have my own copy. I know how you feel when we have big projects going on in our home. It seems like they will never be done —but one day Joe will have your kitchen all painted and beautiful for you to decorate and enjoy again! Take care and enjoy the most lovely time of the year! Martha Ellen, from VA with 75 degree temps and gorgeous! xoxo ♥
I love reading your blogs, and following your trip, I can’t wait to see the book your doing now. I am from Michigan, and the weather is perfect!
Oh, my! You are such a busy girl! As I read your message I must remind you that there is ABSOLUTELY nothing that you have done that isn’t LOVED! You are amazing woman!! I only wish I had 1/10th of your talent and ability to express love out there to all of your BFF’s! I thank God for you each and every day. And knowing how Joe is putting back the kitchen, while you work, he is my hero!! Way to go, Joe!!! You can come to my house anytime 🙂 I have told you this before – when I open my computer and find a message from you, my day is complete. Thank you Thank you Thank you. Wish I could go on that ride to see the leaves….XXXXOOOO Pat J. from Paso Robles, CA. P.S. Still summer here….DARN!!
A friend asked if I have done any Autumn decorating, yet.
I told her only one thing… I displayed Susan’s Autumn book. After tucking away the Summer book until next year. 🙂
I don’t have a Christmas book, will have to peruse Amazon…
Susan,
Hello from foggy Santa Cruz, CA. Having lived in Poringland, a village near Norwich in East Anglia for 2 years while my husband worked on the rigs in the North Sea, I’m a sister Anglophile. Since we did not visit many of the places you highlighted during your posts, it has been wonderful to visit them by proxy, thanks to you! We will soon be moving to southern CA to live with our son’s family. I turn to your website for my daily uplift. Keep up your wonderful contribution!
Linda
It is a cooler day here in Tonawanda< NY (suburb of Buffalo). I am not missing the 80's and 90's! It's time for Autumn. I pulled my Autumn tote out of the basement today, I am ready to start decorating for fall. Love living here and celebrating all four seasons.
Thanks for today's Blog. I loved your updates on the new book. I am anxious to see it published. So much going on at your home…the book, the kitchen, those furry kids of yours. Grateful that I can feel part of it all. Thanks!
Things are much the same here in SC….everyone is staying out of trouble and life is good! 🙂
(can you stand to hear this one more time?? haha)……. I LOVE reading your blog! Those are the moments I take for myself, with a “cuppa tea” & just time to sit & look at the beautiful words and pictures you post. Thank you so very much!!! As for Fall, ahhhhh my MOST favorite season of all. Just the colors and smells of it make me happy. I exist thru the other seasons, but come alive in FALL! Linda*
If I ever get sick of this, please put me in a home and get me some help. xoxo
I love reading your blogs and seeing all of your paints and brushes etc. all laid out. Reminds me of my tables when I scrap or make cards. I hope we will see pictures of your 4 day getaway as it sounds marvelous. Also am eager to see the new book that you are working on.
Happy Painting to you.
Suzanne
Hi Susan, Judith here from Vancouver Island. Love the photo of Jack and Girl. I know that expression well. Glad to see you are making good progress on the book. Can hardly wait for it to be published. It sounds so lovely on the Vineyard at this time of year. I think fall is the best season. I have a copy of your “Autumn Book” and it takes its “pride of place” on our coffee table every September. I would love to win a copy for my daughter who lives on an island about half way up the coast. In a very tiny cottage with no electricity. Just two lovely big armchairs in front of the wood stove. She loves your books, and I given her a few over the years. Also have blessed her with a few Beatrix Potter music boxes. She loves to decorate and the Autumn Book is perfect for that.
We live in Farmington, New Mexico and Fall arrived yesterday also! We woke to a cool breeze blowing through our east facing bedroom window. The temperature and the feel of the air were suddenly different, a crispiness and coziness came wafting across our red earth plateau. With coffee in hand we headed toward the mountains for a hike among the golden red leaves of the scrub oak and evergreen pine. The fragrance of someone’s fireplace drifted in the car window as we drove home. Autumn, so very much my favorite season.
Dear Susan,
Love the title of this post! Martha’s Vineyard IS my happy place! You may recall I was there recently…”stalking you” as my son would say! I did walk past your home and thought I may have gotten a glimpse of you through a window. We spent the day on the Vineyard, docked in Woods Hole and had breakfast, and walked down your main street, which I had never done on previous visits! So fun! We walked to Oak Bluffs on Ocean,(3 miles!) stopped in 2 antique stores, one of which actually had some Peter Rabbit figurines! Visited the Gingerbread Houses and took the bus to Edgartown. We ended our day on the beach at Oak Bluffs, then sadly had to board the ferry back to Woods Hole. Such a wonderful day, spent with my son and his girlfriend! My son is a student at UMass Amherst….so I will be back! Thank you for sharing your creativity, I’ve a fan forever.
Debbie
Shannon here in Denton, TX. I DO NOT have a copy of the Autumn Book and would so enjoy one… to give to my daughter who’s expecting our first grandchild in November! I am VERY PATIENTLY waiting for your English Journal! I read every trip entry during your time across the pond and it was like a balm to my weary soul! What a true treasure you are to be so open and sharing with your adventures! Whoo Hoo! Thank you for being a bright spot daily in this TX heat! You are loved down here!
Hi Susan! I think fall has come to Bloomfield, Michigan!! It’s been cool in the evening and 70 in the afternoon. Perfect weather. Husba d and I are traveling back roads in Michigan at the end of the month taking pictures and enjoying the scenery. I enjoy reading your blog. Thanks for sharing!!
I would love a signed copy of your Autumn Book. Autumn is my favorite time of year (and I am lucky to have my birthday in October). We actually had a cooler day yesterday in Birmingham, Alabama, and it was so nice to be able to enjoy it. I’m usually at work indoors with no window during the week, so it was refreshing. It was near the end of September two years ago that I made my first (but not last!) visit to Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. It had long been a dream of mine. Don’t know when I’ll be back, but I sure do plan on it! In the meantime, I get to enjoy your area of the country through your blog.
Hi Susan, thanks for (as always) brightening my day! I am in Northborough, MA where I am loving this crisp fall weather. Take care.
Martha’s Vineyard and New England – Happy Land Indeed.
It is 90 degrees in Colorado today 🙁 I am SOOOoooooo ready for fall. The book is darling from what we can see. Can’t wait as I have collected all the others! Envious of your trip to NewEngland for Leaf Peeping!
Thank you for sharing your lovely photos with everyone. The rainbow photo is beautiful! Haven’t had much rain in Arizona these days, but when it does, my daughter and I always hunt for the rainbow!
Have a wonderfully colorful day.
Love to see the new book ..looks so gorgeous..look forward to see the kitchen too.
Sending greetings from lekkerkerk ….from the Netherlands.
Gladys, Virginia
This blog is the highlight of my day….I so miss you when you don’t write to me (us)………..Jack is a beauty and Girl is keeping him striaght.
It was lovely and cool when I took the pups out this morning and even the rest of the day isn’t supposed to be too hot. I bought asters and mums at the market the other day, but not the pansies. It would make me too sad to watch them melt in the heat. I must wait just a while…Gala in Kansas
Your site, Susan is a breath of fresh air. Love looking at life through your most creative lens. Your attention to detail is phenomenal. So looking forward to seeing your finished diary as well as your comfy kitchen. Both are quite special. Your Joe is a trooper! You are truly blessed.
~Jane
Hi Susan! I too live vicariously through your stories and pictures. Can’t wait for the new book. It looks so lovely. I’ve been trying to get ahold of your Autumn book to help me pretend we have an Autumn down here. Just arrived in Niceville, Florida this year and will be here for the next three years. While it is nice, there are no seasons to be had….at least nothing like up North. I often dream of living in New England which is why I love your site so much….it makes me happy. Thank you! : )
I can not wait for your England Dariy, I just finished reading the blog and I am so inspired, been putting some things off and love the way you but things.
I am getting ready to go back into work for my second shift and I am more upbeat, as I am off tomorrow and with your encourgement. I will be working on my writing, journaling and such. Oh yes…the joy you bring not only into my life but others.
Thank you,
Sheryl
Hi, it’s Linda from Pleasanton, Texas! (near San Antonio). I would be thrilled beyond belief to win a copy of Autumn! You are such an inspiration. When I need calm and peacefulness, I come to your blog. You seem to have it dripping off your fingers. Thank you so much!
Plainfield, NH. Your blog perks me up everyday time there is a new posting. Today more than usual! Thanks for the special and unique treat that it is.
Susan,
Writing from Lebanon, PA (near Hershey) and sure hope you “pull” my
name for your “Autumn” book. I have several other of your cookbooks,
but Autumn would be a new one for me. You are sooo fortunate to have
Joe to patiently paint your kitchen! Can’t wait for the diary!
Pat S.
Last night was the first time in ages that we were able to sleep with the windows open and the a/c off. Today it’s a taste of Autumn, light breezes, blue skies with puffy cotton clouds and the only sounds we hear is the twittering of the chickadees playing tag in the bushes. Love it!!! I’m even getting some rug hooking in since it’s cooled down. No one wants to mess with wool on hot, sticky days. Hubby and I are missing NE so much that we are talking about a road trip to the Maine coast next month. Our second most fav place to be after the Cape. Thank you for being our inspiration and motivator, you’ll never know how much that means to us. P.S. I have your Autumn book but if I should win another copy, it’s going to my dear sister who’s also building her library of SB books. Hugs from NJ….
Kitchen and book pages both looking lovely! How nice that you will be able to have a getaway! I’d love to win a copy of the Autumn book. Sure does feel like fall here in New Hampshire today … we are just between the lakes region and the White Mountains region, so have the best of all worlds in our location. Today is so breezy and cool, I would love to be in the kitchen baking, but alas, other responsibilities take priority!
Love, love, love Fall!!! We have had wonderful, crisp, fall like days here in Northern Colorado finally. I just finished painting all my kitchen cabinets a beautiful white and adding new hardware. Now we’re ready for the holidays. Your Autumn Book would be the perfect addition to my kitchen. Can’t wait for your book to be finished and out so that I can relive your trip through the pages you’re creating.
Love, truly LOVE, the little Beatrix Potter words…. “why should I roam? While peace and content bless my little thatched cottage….” I have been retired for 3+ years now….. and find I am so very very happy to be at home. I think I always knew that would be the best part of retirement, but everyone always talks about traveling here and there. I find that I am happiest and most content in our house. I don’t long to travel or plan trip after trip….. it is as they say…. home truly is where the heart is. I love your work. It is wonderful and meaningful and heartfelt. I thank you for sharing! Oh, and we have had a few cool days (finally after a long brutally hot summer) here in Wisconsin, but supposed to be near 90* again by Wednesday. Soon we will be covered in snow and longing for the warm weather again.
Hi Susan-
Life has kept me from keeping up with your blogs lately…glad to be back! Great fun to get a peak at your new book. Would love to have a copy of “Autumn” to add to my Susan Branch collection! This is my favorite time of year. Have a wonderful “Meanderment”! (great word!)
Hi Susan:
I’m Nicki and I’m from the great State of Texas. I enjoy your blog so very much — and especially enjoy your beatuiful cats. I love to see pictures of them but I must admit that Jack and his little mustache is my favorite. I just smile ear to ear when I see him.
Your kithen has intrigued me and I cannot wait to see it finished.
I would love to enter for Autumn ! I’m looking so forward to it this year in particular. The heat here has been overwhelming. Come on Autumn !!!
My mother-in-love has your Autumn book- that is how I was introduced to you (do you remember?)! I would love to have my own copy! Autumn is my favourite season, and it’s usually beautiful here in SW Ontario.
I can’t wait to see your England book. It was wonderful to travel with you through your blog while you were there. I’m hoping to take a trip to England soon and for sure Beatrix Potter’s house in on my list of must sees.
It’s nowhere near Autumn temperatures here in Houston but it’s nice to know somewhere is cool right now!
i am inspired by YOU…all the way from franklin, tn…..where we have finally cooled off a bit, but fall has not officially arrived.
thanks for such a wonderful opportunity to win your book!
erin
xxoo
Storybook picture beautiful day in Bethel Park, Pennsyvlania. Autumn always my favorite time of year. Enjoy your blogs as much as a visit with a good friend. Thanks for sharing your life with everyone!
Oh Miss Susan, your Autumn book would be such a treasure! Autumn is my favorite time of year, so much so that I’m dragging my husband to see his family in TN just so we can share the fall colors, scents and tastes with them. We are in TX and Autumn just isn’t the same here so I surround myself with my spicy candles and fall decorations a little early each year. Maybe I’m trying to coax cooler temperatures to give us some relief from the heat. I could live in Autumn weather all year I think.
Anyway, thanks for sharing your book-writing process. I wondered if you hand-painted the writing! How careful you must be. How wonderful your gift is. Keep creating! Pam K. from Dallas, TX
Yeah! A new book, can’t wait to buy copies for all my girlfriends! Awhile back you mentioned doing a book that I think had something to do with pancakes, is that still on the agenda?
Jack and Girl Kitty are so cute! Isn’t it time for another Jack video, pretty please?
Hope you have a wonderful day!
-jennifer
Here in Texas, our summers are long and hot! Sooo, the cooler temperatures are a welcome relief. Maybe we are past the triple digits at least! Fall is my absolute favorite time of year and I would love to have a copy of your book. A friend of mine made your cheesecake recipe and it was the best I’ve ever had! Thanks so much for sharing your life and time with us.
The weather in Brooklyn, NY feels like fall now too ~ I LOVE IT! The cool air in the morning as I walk my son to daycare, the change in the angle of light each evening, and looking forward to soups for dinner too. I would love to try some of the recipes from your Autumn book, because I have thoroughly enjoyed your Summer book this year!
I’m from Paradise, in northern California. Your back yard looks awfully inviting, we sure could use relief from the heat, wildfire smoke, and a little rain!
Saturday night I finally located a copy of Autumn on eBay. (One book I’m missing from your repertoire.) But then, I got momentarily interrupted and, within those precise moments, someone else came along and made off with the treasure. (And I’ll just bet that very person is around here somewhere right now, lurking amongst us, relishing their triumph…) Alas.
Since I too believe in book osmosis, I lost out on so much more than just the book ~ I lost out on all that enviable Susan Branch essence-of-creative-orginality and determination and focus. All those other good things that were there, permeating the pages. (And I need all the help I can get most days!) So I find this giveaway both ironically and perfectly timed.
But I never come here to win anything beyond what is already given:
The good cheer, the shared beauty, the cat antics and literary tranquility, the island ambience and artistic respite. This blog is a daily necessity. Like hope.
And sometimes I even come away with a new word to add to my vocabulary. “Meanderment.” I love that. What a Beatrixically brilliant blend.
I shall use it now forevermore.
And the English Diary to come looks wonderful but, how could it be any less?
Here in the Sierra Nevada of California (near Sonora) we actually DO have all four seasons so, the crisp temperatures will certainly come soon, as will all the lush and glorious autumnal colors. But for now, it’s sun-drenched as ever.
All the best to everyone.
“Beatrixically brilliant” are you . . . 🙂
Oh I can’t wait for fall! I can already feel the change in the air!
Jessica from Georgia
Hello, fort lauderdale, florida still very hot here in florida..so enjoy reading your blog.. can’t wait for your new book to come out and love to be on your list for one.. have a wonderful week. smiles Rosemary
Finally, a short break from the heat here in Ponchatoula (near New Orleans), Louisiana (lows mid-60s, highs mid-80s with low humidity, so we’ll take it). Not exactly Fall, but…
Enjoyed the book preview, Susan – it looks great!
Hi there from Plano, TX! We went from 104 on Friday to a beautiful, cool 60 degrees Saturday morning and highs in the 80s! Fall is a little early but we will take the cooler days while we have it! I have so many of your books but don’t believe I have “Autumn” and LOVE all of your work. Thanks so much for the sneak peak for the diary…looks like a lot of beautiful work! We saw a rainbow last week here with a quick shower that blew through…so amazing! Have a great rest of the day! 🙂
Hi Susan, I’ve been enjoying your blog for several weeks now. I’m an American ex-pat living in England and I’m so looking forward to your book. My former homes were Vermont and California so I’ve been around a bit. Your love of all things “home” resonates greatly with me, perhaps because I’ve called so many wonderful places “home”. Oh, and Martha’s Vineyard… a gorgeous place which also holds memories of student days: waiting tables and sharing a house in Oak Bluffs with about 10 friends. Those were the days….
.
Love, love the fall… It’s our 25th wedding anniversary in October so it is a special time for me. I would be so happy to have a signed copy of your Autumn book! I am looking forward to your new book too and I like that you are sharing the process. It’s interesting to see how you have each beautifully written and illustrated page in its own little sleeve… 🙂
Thank you for letting us get a peep at your creative self at Work!! And thanks for sharing your lovely home with us as well. I live in Decatur, Alabama on the beautiful Tennessee River. My husband and I purchased a townhouse three years ago so we could kiss yard work goodbye! I am just getting out all my FALL decorations. I love to decorate for the seasons…those little things make a house a home.