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! ♥
First of all I can hardly wait for the book on England. Went there myself many years ago and loved it – would like to go back. Second – The Autumn Book – I would like to have. I just recently started collecting your books and am now a Susan Branch “groupie”. It’s like a good friend dropping by everytime I read the blog or page through one of my books.
I so agree with this. Have a little Susan Branch ‘fix’ every day.
Ohh…I am just in awe of your beautiful hand writing & water colors !!! I live in Feeding Hills, Ma. think you will get a giggle out of the name of my town ! Your Kitty’s are so cute ! Your trip to England really make me want to go even more !!! My husband was born there & his Uncle & family still live there. My brother & his wife leave tomorrow night for 10 days in England ! I am so jealous !!! I told my sister-in-law to visit your blog to get more ideas of places to go !!!! They are going to a neat vintage car show, nothing newer than the 60’s & they you have to be dressed in vintage clothing ! Doesn’t that sound fun ??? !!!!! They will have a wonderful visit & hopefully send lots of pictures !!! I plan on making your cheese cake recipe for dinner Saturday night with good friends !!! Thanks so much for a peak into your wonderful, charming ,sweet view of life !!!!!
Oh that does sound fun! Tell them bon voyage for me. Now they will figure out everything so that when you go, it will be easy!
Susan, I always smile when I see your blog in my inbox. The hearts in my home are all happy and content. Maui sits on her feline throne and oversees her two subjects (Bryn – a yellow lab & Dolly – a black lab). Brad is happy in his retirement and has taken over as much of the housekeeping as I can con him into leaving me to my studio to sew and quilt. We are transplanted NHites in Florida and I relive my New England years thru your writing. Thank you, girlfriend, for the lovely mail.
There is nothing like autumn in Michigan! Well, besides winter, spring and summer. Can you tell I love where I live? I also adore your wonderful books and outlook on life. Having spent several days in London last year, I also look forward to the new work of art. Enjoy it all!
Dear Susan,
Autumn arrived here in Decatur, GA yesterday, too. After our hot summer it was “fling open the windows wide” time, the air growing cool and soft, and the leaves looking groundwards knowing soon they’ll be sailing forth. My favorite season, so yes, do enter me into the content for your autumn book!
A couple of years ago, I remodeled my kitchen … it is similar to your darling make-over! I have “schoolboy blue” walls, the scalloped apron above the sink with light behind, white cupboards, clear glass knobs, and a “marmoleum” blue and white floor that looks like a swirly sky of clouds. I adore it every single morning I walk in there!
It has made my afternoon complete to read through many of the posts here from all the girlfriends. You are gracious and generous to share with us and it is deeply appreciated. Can’t wait for the diary of England book.
Peace and ease,
Jana
I LOVE the girlfriends posts! And isn’t it fun hearing where everyone is from? Thank you Jana! I think your floor sounds like what my countertops are made out of! We have the same kitchen!
Hello. I am from Edgewood, Washington. We are enjoying beautiful end-of-summer weather here in the Northwest. I do not have your Autumn book and would sure love to have a copy. Thanks for the chance to win one!
Hello hard working Susan and Joe!
Martha’s Vineyard must be inspiriational to people who live there. I have never seen such business. It’s wonderful. Maybe its the weather. Sweaters! Blankets on the bed! I faint at the thought. I can’t wait for the weather to cool off. I looked slowly and carefully at all of your “diary” photos and am impatiently waiting for it to be published (terrible, I know). It is beautiful. Speaking of beautiful….what are those lovely pink flowers in your vase? Are they from your yard or wild? They almost look like penstemon but not quite. I have several shades of pink penstemon in our yard that the hummingbirds love.
Blessings to you!
xoxo Pam
Beginning to fall in love with fall. Have you tried pumpkin spice coffee, yum!
I am home in Long Beach CA. Off from work today so I am getting out bits and pieces of Autumn even though it is 88 degrees and the a/c is running. I am setting out warm colors with pumpkins and leaves and a splash of yellow. And burning a new candle, Apple Pumpkin…sense a theme here? I have your wonderful Autumn book but would love to gift it to a dear friend.Thanks for thinking of us Susan.
Also in Long Beach 🙂
Reading your blog is like being there with you! I can see you painting (chewing on the end of your paintbrush, hmmm?) and thinking and using your “good handwriting” and listening to the music…pure heaven. Thank you for that! We are having delightful weather here in South Carolina too ~ dry, cooler (a relative term, in the South!) and blue sky forever. Lovely. But a lobster roast on the beach? Now THAT sounds wonderful!
Autumn is my favorite time of year and the chance to win your Autumn book is wonderful. I keep my eye peeled for one whenever I’m in a used book store, but so far no luck. Maybe I’ll be lucky on your blog! Thanks Susan!
Hugs, Barbara
SOUNDS so wonderful! Especially the fall weather! Thanks for including us in your travels & joys!
WIth love From South Carolina
I love your pictures of Martha’s Vineyard, I love to see New England, because I live in northern Wisconsin, my world looks much different from yours. We are moving into our fall color now, I live in a little house in the woods, yes, I truly do, usually it is almost indescribably beautiful at my place. But this year, sadly our drought has muted our colors, I grief for the forests, the trees are suffering. And of course I grief also for the farmers’ and their crop failures. Yet we welcome autumn and harvest and the farmer’s markets and pumpkin stands.
I just found your 2013 calendar at my local Meijer’s store. Delighted!!! I missed out last year. I am from Michigan and we are enjoying Martha’s Vineyard weather too, just not the beautiful ocean. Great Lake Huron will have to do. Love, love, love everything you do.
I write to you from a wee wool farm in Maine, where too a sweater is necessary, and the sheep and the dogs seem to be so happy about cool temps and autumn breezes. In the midst of making wool things for upcoming art markets and shows, I stopped to read your blog, and as usual, the words and the pictures were perfect. And lovely. Amazing. Thank you.
“a wee wool farm in Maine” sounds like an enchanting place to live, Jean! Larry and I have not spent much time in NE and no time at all above Massachusetts, or Massachestnuts as my fourth grade teacher, Mr. Seese in PA, was fond of saying when we were learning the names of the states. We are looking forward to traveling through all of the NE states someday! I just love to here all you Girlfriends’ descriptions, and of course we will not be skipping over Martha’s Vineyard when we do it!!!
The book looks great -LOVED the music! North Carolina, rural farm country 🙂
Hello Susan! I only stumbled on to your blog about a month ago, but now I am addicted! I love seeing your beautiful island, your beautiful cats, and your beautiful paintings…. 🙂 I don’t own anything of yours, but I’m planning on getting the “travel diary” as soon as it comes out! I’d be super, super, excited if I end up winning the Autumn book….. I’m crossing my fingers, and toes, and knees…. 🙂
Good grief!!! I was off part of a day and there are already over 500 comments–WOW!!! 🙂 Well, it is warm here in Minnesota again today and 90 predicted for tomorrow but then it cools off for the rest of the week. I shouldn’t complain as it has been very cool and over the weekend it actually got down to 40 one night! Good sleeping weather!!! Yes, we put a warmer quilt on the bed, too, as we sleep with all of the windows open and the cool air blowing through…
Your new book looks wonderful–I can’t wait to see the finished product! I have a dumb question: When you are hand writing it, what do you do if you make a mistake? Use something like “White Out” or the like? No offense intended, Petey, but I’d have a hard time concentrating with your face in front of me! 🙂
Norm is like Joe–“the patience of Job” is a good description. Guess he counter-balances my impulsitivity and impatience! Good for you for planning a Fall get-away! As our annual trek to Door County approaches, I’m planning for the trip–the planning part for me is almost as much fun as the actual trip! Time away from your regular routine and environment is helpful, I think…Okay, back to the pantry reorganization for me–want it wound up before the trip…
LOL, we have to learn to love Petey’s terrible face! He can’t help it.
Now, now, I Love Petey’s face and I am not even his mama!
And this may even change your mind (Pat 😉 ) ….well, when I saw Susan’s page titled “A fine romance” it made me think of Fred Astaire singing that song….so I u-tubed it and ……..
Pat you must watch it!…. and hit the pause at 2:25 !!! Looks to me like Petey and Fred are very related! And You just gotta love Fred & Ginger!!!!
A Fine Romance – Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in Swing Time (1936)
youtube.com/watch?v=pGmpuZ5rHig
LOL!!! Yes, once again, Susan, you are right! He can’t help the face that he was made with…Dawn, how funny!!! I’m not sure I WANT to see Fred Astaire with a “Petey face”!!! (I think I’m glad I don’t know what/where the pause button is…) LOL! 🙂
Ladies, if you remember while we were all meandering around the Countryside in England I wrote a retraction on Petey and how I had made a comment similar to yours Pat about his scary face….then I decided that the only reason that Petey looks this way (other than to frighten innocent children when he was produced)…was because he knows a secret?? and if you look at him in this frame of mind then he is charming! If Susan/Joe can travel with him for 2 mos. and give him a place to live (not hidden in a closet) sitting out in their home then Petey is just fine with me!!! Stop rolling your eyes Pat give the boy a chance….afterall the poor thing already obviously has suffered trauma from a fire? so he deserves our kindness is all I’m sayin. We are all about love, flowers, strength, solidarity so it shouldn’t be hard for all of us to give Petey his rightful place in our hearts. Oh my it sounds like I’m campaigning and that isn’t my intention!!! Petey for PRESIDENT…ok now I have gone too far I know…Petey our English Diary Mascot!!!! YAY.
They gave him very strong cheeks, and tried to make dimples, and he really looks like a ventriloquists dummy! Poor thing. But he’s got a gentle side and makes no trouble at all!
That’s it!!! I couldn’t figure out what he reminded me of–he reminds me of a ventroloquist’s dummy!!! (okay, Deborah–that was not a nasty comment on my part on Petey’s intelligence! LOL!!! 🙂
Susan, regarding my question about if you make a mistake painting/writing, do you use “white out” or something similar, does the fact you didn’t answer just mean that you are too busy answering comments or does it mean that you don’t make mistakes? 🙂
Loved your England trip! I was quite envious. I love your cat pictures too and the progress going on in your kitchen. Please consider me for your signed Autumn book since that’s one I don’t have yet.
Hi Susan…
You wrap a ribbon around your world and share it with us on the pages of your books; such love! “Autumn” has certainly become my favorite book of all!
May there always be a memorable moments for you to paint & compose! Remember: “Nothing is impossible to a determined woman.” – L. M. Alcott
Ohio Blue Skies are smiling because of you! ;>)
Bunny XO
Bunny,
Hello! I’ve wanted to say for awhile that I love all your quotes! You always post just the right one for each occasion. I’ve even copied a few and put them in my Journal.
Thank you!
Linda
I’m so looking forward to your new book, from a distance it looks wonderful! Don’t worry about the kitchen, it will get done eventually and it will be worth it I’m sure. Enjoy your days away, and by the way, the rainbow didn’t end in your garden did it? You’ll need to look for the crock of gold if it did 🙂
The fairy beasts beat me too it! 🙂
Maddie again! I forgot to post where I live! I live in Cincinnati, Ohio
My sister has always enjoyed your work, and she turned me on to your website and blog during your trip to England. Thank you for sharing with us! I live on the Alabama Gulf Coast in Mobile County.
Hey Susan – it is SUCH a beautiful Fall day here…sunny, breezy, a bit of a chill….LOVE IT. Thanks for the great post and the beautiful rainbow. I just put my Autumn book out ( with a little pumpkin by it) on my cookbook shelf…I propped it up and displayed it so my dinner guests on Saturday could see it and pick it up and browse. But I would love to win a copy for my best friend who I will be visiting at the end of the month. Thanks for always having little treats for us…you are the BEST !
My husband and I just spent the weekend in Prescott/Cottonwood Arizona. We went to Nics Restaurant on Main Street for dinner Saturday. Great time!
Oh, maybe my dad was there, he loves Nic’s!
I can’t wait for the Diary of your England trip! I live in North Carolina where it is also beautiful today.
This Hoosier girl is loving sleeping with the windows open, finally, after such a hot, dry summer. Would be nice to smell some ocean breezes, but fresh cut grass is nice too.
Would enjoy having your Autumn book arrive at my home in Lancaster County, PA. You’re there, I’m here, but Fall is Fall, anywhere!
Well, Susan, that was a lovely visit with you and yours. Nights are cooling down here in Colorado as well, and I thank God Autumn is just around the corner. Summer was just TOO much this year! The aspen are just beginning to turn in the high country, and I hope to make a little foray of my own to get away and enjoy them. I’m very much looking forward to your new book, and would love to win the autographed copy of such a favorite.
Enjoyed your project progress today. You make it all look so easy and taken in stride. I love your blog SOO much! I nominated it for the Country Living contest for best blog ever. I wanted to share with you what I said…”Susan Branch’s blog makes you feel like everything’s going to be all right in the end” Love watching your kitty cats and book progress and just all the lovely, charming things you share with all of us voyeurs. Please enter me to win your book! Thanks for taking us on a lovely journey.
I love reading your blog, and look forward to it everyday! Art, gardening, and traveling are some of my passions, so everything you post is sooo interesting for me! I’m from Atlanta, GA, and so seeing all of the beautiful landscapes and wildflowers up north is pretty cool, too. Can’t wait to see your new book! Thanks for making my days that much brighter by everything you post! 🙂
Finally, we get to experience Autumn! Being from Florida, we only ever got to experience the beauty of the season on an occasional vacation. The kids are grown, so we dont have school schedules to keep us in Fl. Six years ago, we bought a place in the Smoky Mountains, in western North Carolina. Still, it was a week here, or a week there, but husband just retired, and we are getting to spend three months here! I’m so looking forward to what the next several weeks will bring.
I hope you get a chance for some meanderment up here in the Berkshires – it’s usually beautiful in the autumn. Just last week I went on Amazon to order your Autumn book for my sister as a gift – I was so disappointed to find it’s out of print. I can’t wait to revisit England with your new book
Please YES Please put my name into the drawing. I wanted to share this lovely story. At work the other day, a friend said to me that she was thinking about this and told me: You know what? If you lived in Martha’s Vineyard near Susan Branch I do believe that you would be Susan’s friend. She would be writing about you and you would be right there when she had parties! You would be having tea at her kitchen table. I think you are exactly the kind of person that Susan has for friends!
OMG that was the nicest compliment and it just MADE MY DAY! I said what about you? would you also be her friend? she said, no, I’m not her kind of people, but you are! Wasn’t that sweet?
anyway…..can’t wait to see your kitchen all put back together. If I lived in Martha’s Vineyard I would be there helping you take down the tape around the edges, and help wash your cups and saucers and put them back on the shelves 🙂 And inviting you to dinner since your kitchen is all torn apart. Glad you are using your time to work on your artwork/book – it’s so wonderful to be creating!
You keep talking like that, you’re going to have to move here, a tape remover- cup washer is always a very popular person no matter where she lives! 🙂
We’re available to help! Seriously.
XOXO!
Well, Barbara T. in Wolverine Lake, MI, you can move here to St. Paul, MN, if you would like to invite us over to dinner while our pantry re-do is happening! We’d be friends and get along well as we are both “her kind of people!” LOL! 🙂
Susan,
Thank you so much for this labor of love…The Diary. I’m looking forward to when we can all see and read it! 🙂
I’ve been excited also about the changing of seasons, and would love to have a copy of the “Fall” cookbook to add to my collection. So far, I possess two of your beautiful books. Thank you for all that you have poured into each one.
Blessings from Massachusetts,
Selina
Susan, the English Diary is looking so lovely and I know how much work you are putting into it for all of us….thank you!! I would adore a chance to win the Autumn Book, I write down every recipe you put on your blog and have them in a journal and have tried most of them. Delicious….if Vanna chooses me this go around I will cherish your book and then someday leave it to Angela who LOVES EVERYTHING AUTUMN. We see the same look of disgust/disdain from our girl kitty to her brother and the wanting look of betrayal she gives us as if to say “how could you bring HIM into our home and lives…wasn’t I enough”?? this is 6 years later so don’t expect Girl to ever squeal with delight when she sees Jack!!!
I live in Madison, Al. (Huntsville) and I’m originally from Temple Terrace,Fl. (Tampa). I went to college in Lenox, Ma. where I experienced wonderful autumns for the first time. New England is so beautiful. Hope your trip is lovely and the rain doesn’t take the leaves off before you see them as I remember sometimes happening. So excited to see a sneak peek of your book. I love your photo of the church and rainbow…perfect place for God’s promise to us. I do not have your Autumn book…..yet! :o)
Everyone is so looking forward to Autumn. I truly enjoy autumn, and am the only person of whom I’m aware who thinks the four seasons manifest themselves even in southern California. I live in San Pedro, near the harbor (too near, actually) and nights get cool, trees turn, pumpkins appear, the MS Living with the Halloween themes appears in the mailbox….
I loved this post (I love them all, actually), and thank you so much for sharing the photos of your work in progress. It looks stunning and I can’t wait I can’t wait I can’t wait. You are right about the process of creating, something that wasn’t there before is there, in your case beautiful wonderful books and recipes to try and new pictures and colors and flights of fancy for the heart and imagination, balm for the spirit! I loved the photo of Jack and Girl Kitty, too. They are a cute couple, even if they each still consider themselves cute singles. And I admire your patience with your kitchen in progress. Sometimes I think about painting, and begin considering the process and think, ‘Nah.’ However, it appears a move is in the future, since the city of L.A. (who managed to acquire the wonderful 1924 building where I’ve lived for 14 years) has decided to ‘relocate’ us. To a ‘same’ type apartment. Only, institutions tend not to have respect for the aesthetics of things. Such as the wonderful old moldings, the huge double hung windows that in summer turn the corner apartment into life on a screened in porch. That I can play my guitars or piano and sing my head off and know one minds. There are wonderful little latches — actual latches — on the huge kitchen cupboards. (Actually, the latches on kitchen cupboards should be a law here in earthquake country). And there’s a patio, which I’m the only one who sits out there, and about a dozen rosebushes and a lot of potted plants. When I mentioned this to the fellow with the city, he said those things didn’t factor into the “same” part of it and that the city had been very lenient with us. Politely I replied that I had roses and plants when I moved in with the original owner. (Why can’t we be like in the movies and say what’s really going through our minds). Well, sorry for my venting here. There’s no big hurry, and they are giving us funds to help with the move, and there are some very good reasons for moving to a new space. But suddenly I’m noticing there are some real treasures about this one (besides the very low rent we’ll never see again)…. Very grateful your blog is here, Susan, it’s a joy and an inspiration! And anticipating (have to get out my Carly Simon CD) your new book, and enjoying the past book (I’m still in Summer until the weather tells me it’s time to change to Autumn). Wishing all the best of life, love and all good things. (The last the MS influence). Oh, and learning Bella Luna to play and sing — first new song I’ve taken on in ages!
Bella Luna is the one to try! So gorgeous!
I loooooove reading your blog, it puts a perk in my day. I am a Martha Vineyard’s wannabe and I opening admit this here in my very landlock home of St. Albert, Alberta, Canada. Your photos of the ocean and surrounding area warm my heart. Fall is just arriving here and the leaves change and fall within a two week time span. I enjoy seeing the leaves change in New England and the outlying areas. The colours are beyond brilliant.
Pats to the kitties and hugs to you and Joe, enjoy the upcoming season.
Laurel
Susan, your new book looks *lovely*! I would be thrilled to win a copy of your autumn book, for sure~ thanks for the opportunity!
Bessings from Kansas City,
Susan
Speaking of faces, (Petey) I have always thought that Jack looked impish because of his mask and mustache, but now I am convinced that it is simply his charming personality oozing out from his little soul. He, too, can’t help it. Girl, on the other hand can’t help her beautiful, darling personality from coming forth! Both are amusing in their own way!
I’m in awe. I’ve loved your work forever. You inspire me. Yes, please enter me in the drawing. I’m in Maryland. I put a down comforter on my bed last night with the windows open. Does it get better than that? Well maybe if I lived near the beach with the waves crashing & the whales singing. But a girl can dream. I love your blog.
Thank you Monica
Susan..I loved joining you on the trip to merry olde England..it was just like I was there….I also love black and white cats ..I have had three …they are so entertaining and smart….. Fall in North Carolina is pretty special too . Come visit us. I would love your Autumn book …. also I am waiting so excitedly for our English Diary of our trip!
Hi Susan! Thank you for sharing your beautiful pictures. We have beautiful weather in N.J. today too!! I hope we have a cool autumn this year. Love your blog! ms in nj
Hi,
I treasure your blog and look forward to each entry. I live vicariously through them enjoying your change of seasons. Living in Phoenix, AZ we just have two seasons. Hot and not so hot. Looking forward to your Autumn and Winter.
:),
Sandi from AZ
I honestly don’t know how in the world you do it. Blogging, painting, cooking, watching Joe paint. And I hope you can go back to England, not take anyone but Joe and just enjoy yourself and not worry about anyone but you…..sigh. Put my name in for your book and no one’s getting mine…Sorry! I’m a SB hoarder.
:-)!
Your England book sounds absolutely wonderful! I can’t wait to read it! I also hope someday you’ll make a book entirely on MV… You know I’d be the first in line for that one! 🙂
And let me just say I am SO excited for this giveaway! You have no idea how much your Autumn book means to me- not only because I adore autumn with all of my heart, but because your Autumn book introduced me to your wonderful work and was responsible for developing my love for New England! Having this signed book would be a physical and sentimental symbol of the greatest inspiration in my life <3
Thank you Erin!
It is SO nice to “meet” a kindred spirit! Here in the eensy-weensy town of Alstead, NH, where the people are a lot like those in a Miss Marple story, we go about our days nodding hellos and talking behind their backs… so much fun. But, back to you: I, too, loved my visits to England and Scotland and think your diary is going to be fantastic! Thank you for the previous and your wonderful blog!
A beautiful day here in PA as well, Susan! My favorite type of weather 🙂 Just looking at your work table makes me feel creative…all of those paint colors! The new book looks gorgeous and I can’t wait to purchase a copy. Thanks so much for your blog; it really is a treat at the end of a day to read it. I do have a copy of your Autumn book. I’ve been a fan for many years. Gotta be honest though….. if I win a copy that you signed, I’ll be keeping it, and giving my copy away 😉 Enjoy this gorgeous weather….it will add to your already overflowing creative juices! Kelly
I loved reading about the work you are doing on your English Diary and am really looking forward to having one ! I’d love to have your Autumn Book to remind me of what the season is supposed to be like. It’s just not the same here in SoCal as it was back East ! Now I’m going back to read the previous comments ( 660? well, maybe not ALL !)
We will be celebrating our 50th anniversary in June and making a wish list as to where to go to celebrate it. Your past and recent pix of Martha’s vineyard is putting it on the top of my list. You make it sound so-o-o-o enchanting!!!
Loved your blog on England. We have dear friends in the Yorkshire Dales and have visited some of the same places. Lots of smiles and tears reliving the memories with you. Can’t wait for your diary! Hoping for a chance to win AUTUMN! Enjoy every day. Sharon H.
Hi Susan – Cooler weather has arrived in Mtn Home, Idaho. And I must say I am loving it. I am originally from Toledo, Ohio & Autumn seems to be more colorful there than Idaho. But it is still my most favorite season. The weather, the colors, the smells. I do not have your Autumn book. So thank you for the chance to win a copy. And your writings & artwork are beautiful! You have the knack for making all of us feel as though we are right there with you.
I was given your book, “Christmas from the Heart of the Home” one year and it is now my Bible to get my home ready for Christmas! I had your daily calendar one year and loved using that everyday and reading all the tidbits each week. Some years later my mother has now subscribed to your blog and she was here this weekend and got me into it! I love it. I live in Atlanta. I would love that book on Autumn to give to my mother for her birthday. Hope I win!!
I am Maria, from Greece but I now live in Munich, Germany. I’m so glad I’ve found you!
Miracle! Thank goodness for the computer! Bringing us all together!
Welcome Maria!
This girls’ club is so much fun! I hope to go to Greece this October to visit my husband and your beautiful country.
I love reading your blog and when I see it in my in-box I smile to myself knowing you will take me on another adventure. I have two furry (kittie) kids that keep me company all day long here on the other side of the states (California) and my male reminds me of your Jack in his actions. I love todays picture and what you wrote is totally what mine would “say” if they could. I hope to “win” your book…. sorry ladies. 🙂
Hi Susan,
Yes! Yes! Yes! Please put my name in your drawing!!!!!!!!
I would love to have any of your books autographed!!!!!!! I wish I had gone to
your store in Arroyo Grande!!!! I love love love your artwork!!
I live in Grass Valley, CA. Do you know where that is?
Love
ML
All I knew for sure was California … is it in the Central Valley?
I do! I have a friend who lives near you in Lake of the Pines! Love the evening Christmas celebrations in Grass Valley and Nevada City! Enjoy! Cathee
Hello from one of the Mill Cities along the mighty Merrimack River! I live in historic Lowell, although I grew up in the town next door. I got a kick, like doing something a little secret, seeing your latest pages Susan! I can’t wait to see the finished product. My “personal trip” through the beautiful England Countryside was a terrific virtual adventure! Meantime my little part of the world in Massachusetts is quite wonderful too. =-)
I have no doubt it is. Are you related to John Singer? Always want to ask you that!
No, but I sure do appreciate his art. There are some wonderful pieces in the Massachusetts Museum of Fine Art in Boston. I try to get there every year and admire all the wonderful style, colors and talent! My favorite is the Dutch artist. They are incredible in making a painting look as good close up as it is from a proper viewing distance. Every time we see a Sargent painting, we wonder if my husband is related in some way…now wouldn’t that be a hoot!
Yes, I too have been there, wonderful. Yes, wouldn’t it be wonderful to find out there’s a connection!
It is partly sunny here in Beaverton, Oregon….Autumn is such a wonderful time of year, we chose it for our wedding and love when the pink ladies come up along the California coast, and when all the leaves turn brilliant colors. Thank you for being you and sharing so much of yourself with all of us. My dad was from England so can hardly wait for your book… I have made a quilt with your fabrics and visited your wonderful island… what a treat! Thank you!
Thank you Julia!
We have had the kind of day that makes September so special – sunny and cool with that unmistakable feeling of autumn in the air. This might just be my lucky day. I have tried to find the autumn book with no success before, maybe this one has been waiting for me. Kiss Joe and Jack and Girl for me and wish me luck!
Thanks for the new book preview — love your blog! Fall is just around the corner here in Missouri. The heat and drought we’ve experienced in the midwest this summer is, hopefully, about to end! Yay!! I’d love to have your Autumn book.
Mid, Missouri, I am so exicted to see you book. I admire your devotion to stick with it & get it done. I just seem to have little projects everywhere that are half done. It is beautiful here today in upper 70s. If I win I have a special friend whose Birthday is in Oct., I would give the Autumn book to her, I have it, was a birthday gift from another special friend. Autumn is my favorite season. Its on my list to take a New England fall trip some day.
I am always in aw of your watercolor painting. Watercolor painting was always difficult for me. I was looking at your desk and saw two cups, I thought she must drink two teas as I sometimes do…then it dawned on me that it was the water for your watercolors!!!
I recently forwarded your pics of Martha’s Vineyard to a friend who comes from Mass. who is deployed now. He said he has never been there!!! Poor fellow.
I love Autumn, because I was born during it!
Oh how I wish I could paint like you! I’ve been trying my hand at journaling with words and watercolor… practice, practice, practice!
Thank you for sharing your talent through the blog!
That’s right, practice made all he difference for me!
Your artwork is marvelous. You must have a steady hand. I don’t know what I love more – the caligraphy, or the illustrations. It is all so beautiful.
Hi Susan!
I just love your water color painting style! I have your Christmas from the Heart of the Home and love it! I wish I would have kept the recipes you used to have in Country Living magazine! They were so lovely. When we moved to our home, I was downsizing and threw away alot of back issues to lighten the load….I would love the Fall book! I am in Northeastern PA, and Fall is my all time favorite time of year! I am just itching for the leaves to change, but that also means winter is too close!! I love to visit New England, especially in fall! My husband was born in Leominster, MA
Love to read your emails every day and visit your blog regularly!
Greetings from the northwest corner of Connecticut – a great place to explore in autumn. Just checked your blog to see if there was a post on how your kitchen is coming along – I’m sure it will be lovely. Can’t wait until the diary is published.
Greetings from Western, MA. I remember when I used to purchase your delightful books & stickers & stationary from The Copley Flair on Boylston St. in Boston. Thank you for the chance to enter your giveaway – what a thril it would be to win a copy of one of your delightful books.
Regards,
J. Murray
That book is going to be worth the wait…it already looks so lovely and another book of yours for me to cherish. I don’t think I’ve ever told you but I used your cookbooks as a basis for a Sunday School lesson on how cooking brings us together in times of joy, loss, and God-wink moments. I feel like this blog of yours helps us care for our neighbors no matter how far away we are in reality. I had your books on display and everyone oooed and ahhhed….I shared where to get their own copies!
I’m from Oklahoma so our range of temps from 60 this morning to only 90 today made it feel like fall for us since we had over 30 days of 100 plus temps this summer! I’m ready for more crisp mornings!
Thanks for sharing your book progress!
Can’t wait for the book! Greetings from Port Hadlock, Washington, on the not-often-sunny Olympic Peninsula.
Hi, from Western Washington state! Fall is Definitely in the air today after temps in the 80’s this past week-end! However, I need the warmth and the sun just for a little while longer so the biggest tomatoes I’ve ever grown, can ripen!! (crossing my fingers!) I’m drooling after seeing samples of your new book/diary of your trip to England! Can’t Wait for it to be published!!! Thanks for giving us a quick peek! You two definitely deserve a break after working so hard on the book And your kitchen!! Our leaves are just beginning to turn here. Would absolutely love a signed copy of your Autumn book!! I just started collecting your books recently, too. Have found a few in thrift stores and even in an antique store! (They aren’t That old yet, even if they are out of print!!) I’m always thrilled to pieces when I find one, but at the same time, a bit miffed anyone would get rid of them in the first place!! 🙂
Hello from Granger, Indiana! Fall is here,too. How wonderful to sleep with open windows. Hearing all of the fall insect and peeper noise. And last night we had an owl hooting in the woods. I read the Fall Book every Labor Day weekend. It never gets old! I enjoy it more each time. I cannot wait for the England journal but…we will all be patient to allow you time to enjoy the beautiful fall in New England. Enjoy!!
Hi Susan, I was so glad to see your blog in my mailbox today! I live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. I cannot wait for the fall colors, but I’m sure you will get to experience them a little sooner than I do. I will keep my fingers crossed to be the lucky one to get your Autumn book, but if not, I will be happy for the person that does 🙂 Just want to share with you my favorite fall quote…
“Winter is an etching, Spring a watercolor, Summer is an oil painting and Autumn is a mosaic of them all.”
Susan,
I was starting to get a little worried, but am happy to see you have just been extremely busy! Can’t wait for the book, but want you to enjoy every minute creating it! Enjoy the last bits of Summer too! I love your comments on what kitties are thinking, I do that all the time with my little dog Jack and my family just laughs at me….it’s so fun to try and read their little minds.
Carla
64 pages and a Gazillion more to come!!! I am so excited for Us and for YoU!!!
Isn’t this fun! We are All so very excited!!!! I’m not sure if it’s because I feel excited, but it kinda feels like we are all contestants in a Beauty Pageant……. Hi, I’m Dawn from Minnesota!!! It is so fun to see where everyone is from….and I want to comment with so many of them! You are putting so much Thought & Love into this English Diary and all this excitement is just so so Happy!!! I laugh at myself for getting such a charlie-horse being squinched up in your suitcase….but, it was worth every “yelp!” And in the fields of England I always had visions of us like the little fairy godmothers from Sleeping Beauty…swirling and twirling around your head….laughing, and wishing, and sharing, and becoming forever friends!!!
It was a wonderful time and you are truly the Sweetest Susan on this Earth!!!
When I see Girl kitty she always looks so feminine and with the softest colored pink nose….I just wanna moonch her and I imagine that little puffs of chanel #5 would come poofing out!!! And when I see Joe working….well, he does know the way to a womens heart!!! Have a wonderful and much deserved meanderment Susan!!!!
So proud of you for never ever giving up in doing what you Love…”ART!!!”
Because of YoU, we all have a much sweeter life!!! XoXDawn
Hi Susan,
I can’t wait to read The English Diary!! I live in Sacramento, CA but my thoughts and heart are usually far away in England (or still at home with my kitty kids). I have your blog coming to my in-box at work so I can escape and take a much needed mini girlfriends get-a-way at my desk. I visited Martha’s Vineayrd with my neice 20+ years ago and loved it. Your stories and photos take me back there and always brighten my day!
~Valerie
Nice to hear from you Valerie!
Thanks for always giving me new words … my Scrabble friends might not accept them, but they are splendid nonetheless. While you are experiencing your meanderment on your jaunt, we will be doing the same in Canada’s 4 maritime provinces. Goodbye, prairies. Hello, ocean.
Yay!
Your work is so lovely – even at a distance. I love your photos, especially the one of the rainbow. Rainbows are very significant to me and we were lucky enough to see one in Hershey, Pa while vacationing with our grandson. Of course we were in the car when the thunderstorm came up. But it left behind a fabulous rainbow unlike any I had ever seen. We could actually see the end where it touched the ground. No pot of gold, but the sight was quite breathtaking. It wasn’t as vibrant as yours, but truly one of a kind. I did snap a photo with my phone, but it’s nothing like yours. We’ll never know what was at the other end. In closing, I’d be happy to accompany you on your next get-away or even for the lobster on the beach. You are a wonderful hostess.
Linda W in Strasburg, Pa.
It’s a wonderful world, can you even believe we get all this beauty, birds, clouds, and rainbows too???
Hi Susan! I absolutely adore seeing your work space in your studio….The book you are working on now looks amazing, like all your work. I have to tell you, I have been looking for a copy of your “Autumn” book and have wandered into many places on the internet to find a copy….I was so lucky to find a used copy and as it turned out, it was right in my own state. I sent for it and it arrived this past week. It is beautiful and in mint condition. But the biggest surprise to me, it is a FIRST EDITION! I have been happy dancin’ ever since. I love this book….and now that I have that one, oh how I would love to give “Autumn” to one of my dearest friends. We have so many fabulous “FALL” memories over decades of years together….and for both of us, Autumn is the our favorite season…..So many wonderful things about it…..comfort food comes to mind first and the color red! Like in turtlenecks and woolen sweaters! hee hee
I do have an “artist to artist” question though…How do you keep your palette so darn clean and what kind of a palette is the larger one? I have 2 that I use mostly and they are the Masterson art palette and I love the mixing area and the amout of space for all the colors….I, like you, are in love with watercolor! My very favorite! And Beatrix too!!!! hee hee…………..Gotta run for now…take care and keep those pages coming..So excited for you!
I actually wash them every few months, because my kitties like to lay on top of them of course, which doesn’t do them much good, kitty-hair-wise! 🙂 So I do a quick rinse, drain it off; and if necessary, I rub a little paper towel over each color. Not too much paint gets wasted, I was happy to see.
Thanks Susan! You’re a doll! Keep those brushes in the paint! tee hee
Hello and love from Grosse Ile, Michigan,
(a little island sitting at the mouth of Lake Erie).
Living near the water, ANY water, is a fortunate
circumstance indeed! Counting my blessings 🙂
(you and the girlfriends are in the count!!!)
XOXO
Sent from my iPhone
Excellent!
Susan, loved the rainbow picture. I do have the Autumn book, and put it out when I decorated for fall. If I “win”, I would give one to my daughter! Your books are such a pleasure to look at. I have windows open and am enjoying beautiful fall weather in Attleboro, MA…
Wonderful already Sandy … how are you feeling? Better every day?
Hi Sandy,
Thinking of you, and I have been sending prayers and good mojo to you every day. It sounds like you are doing so well, from all your comments, and that is wonderful! There is a lot of healing power in all the good energy the girlfriends are sending your way too.
Take it a day at a time…….and know we are all thinking of you!
Hugs and God Bless,
Deb
Sandy is the one who gave me my first Susan Branch book years and years ago! 🙂
My SIL is responsible for my SB addiction [though she wasn’t my SIL until a few years later]. The scene – a bookstore. The time – about 25 years ago. As usual we were in the cookbook section or – as we prefer to say – “the doe-mestic arts” area. She’s at a table, I’m rooting through the stacks. Then suddenly she’s next to me handing me “Heart of the Home” saying, “Here, Janet – look at this. You HAVE to see this. You will just LOVE this. It is exactly, perfectly right up your alley.” I opened it up, took one look and was completely hooked. :>)
Love it! xoxo
Greetings from Ann Arbor, Michigan. Home of the University of Michigan. Fall is such an exciting time here. The students are b-a-c-k! College football has begun. The light is changing and the leaves are beginning to be tipped with color. I have your Autumn Book and love it. I can hardly wait for your English Diary! Fran
It sounds like a lot of fun in Ann Arbor!
Hi Fran….
Just wanted to say hi and Go Blue……I am a Michigan Wolverine……and always cheer wildly for the maize and blue……no matter how old we get…….fall and football are just the best! Love Ann Arbor….it is a wonderful town!
Deb
Hi Susan,
Your Autumn book was the first book of yours that I bought. I was hooked. I now have all of your books and can’t wait for the next. I live in Rochester, NY where fall is just starting.
Pretty up there!
Hello Susan! What a treat it is to come home and open my email to see you have been by for a visit. Then I just hop right over here so I can say “hello” back. The wonders of modern technology! I am so READY for fall, but it comes late where I live in Southern California…Rancho Cucamonga to be specific (have you ever been here?)…where it is still in the 90’s most days. Although, today is oddly overcast and there is a chance of thunderstorms. All we generally get from those is the thunder…but every now and then a few misguided raindrops will fall on us…and make me so happy. Even though it is still warm, I can sit inside my air-conditioned house and pretend it’s cool out there. 🙂
Such talent you possess, Susan. I am not blessed with the ability to draw or write as you, but am so happy that you are and share so much of your life with us so we can enjoy those things that bring us mutual delight. Can’t wait to see the England book! I have never had the chance to visit there, but it is on my “someday” list…I would love to visit my pen pal of 30 years who lives in Lancashire. So I dream….
The Autumn Book would be a treasure. I would turn up the air-conditioner, put a cozy throw across my lap and bury myself in it and pretend it’s blustery outside and plan for the crisp days to come. 🙂 Have a lovely evening, Susan!
Isn’t the imagination a wonderful thing?!! 🙂
Hi Pam…I’ve been to Cucamonga! I miss the beautiful mountain backdrop. So pretty in the winter!
I’m so excited about your diary! Can’t wait to see it! It’s still hot here in Modesto, California. I wish Fall would come! Would love your Autumn book! Autumn is my very favorite season! I decorate over the top!
Oh Susan, my mother and I cannot wait for your book to be published!! What fun it will be to read.
I live in Pennsylvania at the foot of the Pocono Mountains. Fall is beautiful here, also.
Hi Susan,
I’m Rosemary from Wisconsin. I love your books and your blog.
Martha’s Vineyard is on my list of places to see. Hope I can
visit soon.
Rosemary
So glad to see you are keeping Petey close at hand. I’m sure he has his own stories to tell of “his” trip to England. The kitties also look so sweet but I can see the words you speak for them right there in their eyes. Isn’t it fun to imagine what goes through their furry little minds? What a wonderful world it would be if all the animals could talk!! Noisy though! HA! Kathy from Melbourne, FL
Hi Susan,
I am from So Calif and I really wish fall would arrive here. I am so jealous. It was 102 here today. Thanks for the chance to win.
102 is crazy. Go to the freezing supermarket! 🙂
Hello Susan,
Can’t wait for your new book! My Jelly (kitty) is sitting next to the laptop – she comes running whenever I check your site. She loves to hear your little chirpy bird 🙂 I would love a chance for a copy of your Autumn book, please.
Angie from the “heart of Pennsylvania”
I do love the name Jelly!
It is exciting writing a book, especially one about your trip to England.
It is a beautiful country. Martha’s Vineyard looks like a lovely place to be.
Keep up the good work on your book.
Enjoy your blog. It says all the things I can just imagine.
i’m way over on the other side of your world, in beautiful downtown seward, alaska, under a mountain and by the bay! our bay is a long, narrow fjord off the gulf of alaska in the north pacific, teeming with fish and sea mammals, surrounded by mountains and glaciers, a gorgeous setting! i would love to win your book! thanx for the opportunity!
Beautiful!
I love your blogs!! I check everyday to see if you’ve updated 🙂 Jack is so cute, I have a girl kitty who looks just like him! I hope I win your book, it would make me more than happy!! 🙂 🙂 You’re wonderful!
I’m already planning on getting your book when it comes out! I can’t wait! I’m from the Midwest, near Kansas City, MO.
Oh, and I am from New Jersey 🙂 – forgot to include that in my comment!!
Susan,
Am so glad I found your blog. Makes me feel so happy and inspired. I have quite a few things that were my Moms and some of them are quite similar to your favorite things. I am trying to find a sweet way to display them.
I live in No.Ky so its still summer time weather here. We are waiting for cooler breezes and the changing colors of the trees. I have checked out the Autumn book from the library and am sad to be turning it in as I can’t find a copy of it anywhere. I have read through it with my husband and he is deciding which recipe he wants me to prepare first.Am so looking forward to your new book and will rush right out and get my own copy before they all disappear. Robyn
Dear Susan,
I am so looking forward to your new book! Thank-you for taking the time to share your adventures with us 🙂
Melinda from Quebec, Canada
Fall has most definitely NOT arrived here in Southern California. I am anxiously awaiting fall and your new book. I can’t wait to experience England through your beautiful images and words!! I would love to win your Autumn book as it is my favorite season!
Hi, Susan.
The book looks amazing. Pictures of little Beatrix w/ Peter, the deck of the ship, Jack and GK. Even a glimpse of Fred Astaire! (When I was little, I looooved Fred. I watched all the movies over and over. I had a life-sized poster of him on the back of my bedroom door. I still love him but, sadly, the poster vanished long ago.) Can’t wait for the book to come out.
Susan I get so excited when I see there is a new update from your blog! I can hardly wait for the book….but it would be easier with your Autumn book to read!
Here in south western Ontario it is starting to cool down and the days are noticably shorter. It has been such a strange weather year, not a single apple on my trees! I look forward to a real winter this year and a return to normal (what is that?) weather.
Your kitties remind me of our two. the lovely Crookshanks may never forgive us for adopting the wee rascal Ginger.
nancyF
Hey Susan! I believe I have every book you have done (Girlfriends is one of my faves) and often give copies as gifts. I was curious. Do you put each finished page in plastic sheet protectors or what was happening there? I am so darn excited about the new English book you are working on. I have been a motivational speaker for more than 20 years and have been blessed to travel to far off lands including England many times! So I can’t wait to reminisce. Today I just organized all my favorite art supplies into a nifty hot pink carrying tote so I can take my art where ever I go! That was fun! With the cooler weather, I am excited about a project I found on Pinterest. I am going to collect second hand sweaters in several colors, cut off the sleeves from the cuff to about 8 inches up, stitch a hem, and guess what they become! You slide the cuffs over your jeans and tuck into your boots to look like tall boot socks! But you dont have the bulkiness! I love that! Here’s to the sights and sounds of Autumn and “Crafty Plans!” Thanks for the gift of Y*O*U!
Yes, each page goes into a plastic envelope so that if something spills, the watercolors don’t run! How cute those sweater leggings sound!
Susan –
I actually have the autumn book on my bedside right now. If my name is drawn there is a differnt book I would rather have and I will tell you then. If I can possibly have that other book, I will leave you to draw a second name for the Autumn Book. Deal?
Marcia in Sewell, NJ
If I have it, then Deal! If it’s Vineyard Seasons, then, no deal, because I don’t have it!
Susan, the used book store in Oak Bluffs has a copy of Vineyard Seasons. I think his price is $20 which is why I didn’t get it since I already have one.
OK, maybe someone will see this!
Always so inspiring to get a peek into your world of creativity…makes my heart purr. Getting so excited for the English diary to be finished. Love the Beatrix Potter quote, one of my favorites. Pretty much explains the best of life in a nutshell.
Fall arrived here in New Brunswick, Canada exactly on September 1st. A welcome change of cooler temps, shorter evenings, very little humidity, crisper mornings, leaves starting to turn brilliant shades of autumn, and my daughter, who is due to have her baby mid October, has his/her Halloween costume bought. She says baby will be here for Halloween and needs a costume. (I got quite a laugh at that one). I took a picture of a “red spot” on one of our maple trees. It turned out to be a tiny new red leaf inside a heart-shaped spot on the tree, and when the camera zoomed in, the leaf was heart shaped as well. One of those special moments.
I have the out-of-print Autumn Book and this is how I got it. Tried several different avenues that didn’t pan out. At the time, it was way too expensive on Ebay (Canada) and Ebay (US) wouldn’t ship to Canada. Ordered it through Ebay (US) and had it shipped to a friend in Maine. Had to wait til his mother went there to visit. She brought it back home to Nova Scotia with her, then I had to drive 4 hours to Nova Scotia to pick it up. When I arrived at her house to collect my prized possession, I asked for a pair of scissors, opened it right there on the spot and told her “I know this book is going to be beautiful and amazing and I just have to show it to you.” We spent half an hour going through the book and she loved it!! Nothing better than a special fall/Susan Branch moment!!
Oh the traveling book! Thank you for that story, it was so nice to read!