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! ♥
Hello from Portland Connecticut! I live right in the center of the state, where the Connecticut River has the bend on the maps! Fall is beautiful here, especially along the river. Hubby and I are heading to Maine at the end of the month. We usually go to Vermont to explore, but wanted to check out Maine -have only been there once, over 22 years ago. Cannot wait! The Maine coast in Fall 🙂 I cannot wait to see your finished kitchen -I love your kitchen. Happy Fall!!
You inspire me beyond words! What an amazing post and beautiful kitties!!! I’m from New Jersey! I would love your Autumn book as Autumn is my favorite season!
Love the book “teaser!” I can see that it is coming along wonderfully and we are more than happy to wait for it! I love that it’s Fall and we have your darling Autumn book to fill us with Fall inspiration! xoxo Happy Fall!!
Hello Susan,
I’m from Surrey, B.C., Canada where we are having a lovely sunny September (except for last night when it rained). I presently have your Autumn book from the library so I would really like to have my own copy.
Heather
What a beautiful rainbow! That’s for considering for your book. I know that kitchen will bring you even more joy when it’s put back together.
An Autumn Book, how great is that!!! My favorite time of the year. I love the leaves changing color, the crispness in the air. I happen to live in Richmond, California.
Loved your entry – where can I buy “Happy Book for Children” by Warne’s pub.? I would love to have books like that one for my grandchildren. Also enjoyed your pictures from England – would love to take a trip there.
You have to look for them in used bookstores, antique stores, or on line. Fun to hunt for!
Happy land. YES! Thank you for sharing your creativity. I am fan (not a blowing fan) but a person who has appreciated your work for years.
I could look at your artwork all day! Lovely! I would treasure this. I am visiting you from Tennessee!
Greetings from Paris! (KY, not France 🙂 Unwinding from a day at the office with your blog. Such a treat. I loved the peek of the new book-in-progress! Enjoy Jack’s antics as well. I have THREE cozy “kitty boys” from our local animal shelter 🙂 ages5-8. Autumn has always been my favorite season, since childhood. It’s also why I chose to get married in October. My beautiful husband & I will happily celebrate five wonderful years together next month 🙂 Sure would like to curl up with your Autumn book!!!! Thanks for sharing your time with us! You are such a doll! XOXOXOOX
Fall has arrived in Kirkland, Washington too! September 1st came around and suddenly the breezes were blowing off Lake Washington in the evening and for the first time in a month the windows had to be closed. Rain arrived for us this morning but just enough to taunt us but here we are back with a lovely afternoon; September for us can be glorious! It sent us straight to the kitchen and our favorite author’s Sweets to the Sweet cookbook, and Fairy Cakes were enjoyed by all! Thank you for a lovely blog post once again 🙂 I of course have your Autumn book but a copy for my dear friend who is getting married next week would be a wonderful addition to her new home.
Oh, my goodness-your latest posting made me so very happy! Aside from the adorable kitties and the peek at your watercolors and pages for the the diary, you gave us the gift of anticipation. First of all, the anticipation of your English diary is so very exciting and something to which to look forward and none of us can hardly wait! Secondly, your descriptions of Fall arriving in Martha’s Vineyard adds to even more anticipation of Fall coming here to Georgia and we finally had our first cool morning over the weekend and this morning! My husband and I love autumn and remember so vividly our treks into New England when we lived in NYC many years ago. One long weekend we planned our trip to see as many covered bridges as we could find and were not disappointed at what we found. I will never forget the illuminated colors of the changing leaves against the autumn light. It was so exhilarating! I know how much you and Joe must be looking foreward to your trip at the end of the month and know it will be grand! Thanks for sharing your work and thoughts with us all. I just can’t wait!
I will never forget it either Minette! I always thought those photos I saw on calendars must have been taken with colored paper over the camera lens, couldn’t believe it could really be that beautiful, but it is!!
I’m from Porterville, CA. It’s 97 degrees today – still feels like summer. Autumn is my favorite time of year and I would love a chance to win your Autumn book. Thanks!
P.S. Our 2nd home is in Arroyo Grande. That’s a much better place to be from:)
AG! That’s where the weather is!
I do have your Autumn book. But I would so love to have an autographed copy of it.
It is nice here in Mississippi today. I am out on my backporch in the swing watching about 20 Hummingbirds! It’s about 80 degrees. It’s wonderful!
Oh! I’m so EXCITED!!! I don’t have the Autumn Book yet and is the one I wanted the most. I have checked it out at the library numerous times. I live in Louisville, Kentucky where the five of us live in our little English cottage house. Well I think the exact term is English cottage revival. We moved in just a little over a year and a half ago. We are sloooowly fixing it up. I just finished painting the kitchen a very pale green (Behr Whitened Sage). It’s my birdie kitchen. I have numerous Marjolein Bastin plates and paintings. I have my cookbooks and some tea tins by a wonderful lady named Susan Branch. My husband has been working on the outside. We are trying to get away from te brown. EVERYTHING on the outside is brown. As my granny would say; “merciful days” I have turned into a Chatty Cathy. Hope Vanna picks me!!!!!
Thanks Susan for showing us your creative nest of tools. Very inspirational.
Since I cannot have a cat in my apartment, I enjoy Jack and Girl so much. I live in not-so-rainy Seattle (reputation greatly exaggerated) five minutes from Puget Sound and a lovely beach with water and mountain views. We’ve had a late long run of dry summer days, so the fall colors and crisp days will soon be here and welcome by me. The Park will live up to its name – Golden Gardens.
I get to kitty-sit for my daughter’s two kitties, Simmy & Dapper, the first week in October. One looks a bit like Jack, the other mostly Siamese. She will be way up north in BC Canada sketching and riding trail horses far from any hustle and bustle. Maybe I’ll take a paintbox and paper to her place and if the kitties let me — see what I can do . . . Never too late :-).
I anticipate with glee the day the English Diary rolls off the presses, but don’t hurry — enjoy every moment of CREATIVITY. It’s so much fun to find the blog in my inbox. Starts the day off in the best possible way. Thanks for everything.
Sylvia
Just had a chance to read your latest blog…and guess where from today?? FIJI! I have my iPad & just read your wonderful blog. You are so blessed with such talent and creativity–AND perseverance…as I know writing a book requires much “stick to-it-tive-ness” even when you have all the material ready to go! And…I love how you keep us up to date! And…even more, I LOVE the pictures (and “conversations”) with Jack and Girl Kitty… I feel like I’m right in your living room at MV! Can’t wait for the book to be published–are we allowed to pre-order at any given time?! Happy writing, painting, and enjoying Joe as well as Jack, and Girl Kitty! 🙂
K in Fiji!
So strange. One never hears about Fiji and now one has heard about it twice in two days! (One does not normally say one, but then sometimes one has to!) You’re there, and our niece’s husband (from New Zealand) just bought a house there! How is it?
The leaves are starting to fall in Homer Glen, IL. I can’t believe that fall is coming so soon. It seems as if summer just started and now it is going to be autumn. I am so anxious for your book to be done and published. I know that I will love every word on it and it will be liking taking the trip again with you. Thank you for your wonderful words.
I am here in New Port Richey Florida and it was 90 today on my car. It is very humid still. Just sweeping the porch has me dripping. No whining, I know. I also can’t wait until I can read your new book. I have all your books, including the Autumn one. But I would love a signed book. I had bought my girlfriend an Autumn book back when they were first released because she LOVES Autumn, but being a native Floridian, she never actually gets any unless she travels at least to North Georgia to see it! She loves it too. Take care & keep writing. I love it!
Pat
I never tire of seeing your cats and your clever way of explaining their expressions! I am from North Attleboro, MA. Thanks for the giveaway!
I cannot WAIT for your England book!! The teasing pictures you are showing look amazing!
Susan from St Paul, MN
Just making sure you girls don’t think I’m goofing off over here! 🙂
NEVER…unless you go for walks out on the town under the moonlight, eating lobster, having after dinner icecream…..but, other than those distractions YOU ARE A WORK HORSE!!!!!
There’s more, but I’m not telling! 🙂
A girl needs her secrets…..shhhhh
Well, “all work and no play…” 🙂
I am not sure if showing us little snippets of your book is a good thing or not. Makes me want it NOW! 🙂
I am from the beautiful state of Michigan. You are welcome any time. 🙂
Thanks for giving away your sweet book!
Hugs,
Shann
Dear Susan, I never know what to write because all I can think of is how I am “ooohing” and “Awwwing” over everything you post! When I saw the DIARY, I started feeling extremely happy and excited….now I cant wait! It looks so beautiful, and I hope I am not being overfamiliar when I say this, but I so felt like I actually went with you all on the trip to England and I feel like this is going to be such a treat!!! I also want to thank you for all that you are doing on behalf of all of the girlfriends….!!!
That pic of Jack and Girl is priceless! Girl definitely looks like she is about to swat Jack across the nose, and Jack almost reminds me of a little puppy dog because he has that eager, alert look on his face all of the time.
So cute!
I love your new kitchen in the works. You are SOooo blessed to have a hubby who can fix and paint and build everything! What a great guy! 🙂 He is almost one of the girlfriends now……lol. 🙂
Have a beautiful week….it looks like everything is turning so gorgeous where you live! I love Autumn….especially if there are cool temps and sunshine all day! It is a good thing that you take time to enjoy everything….and your road trip with Joe sounds like a blast! love and friendship to you!
So happy to hear from you Diane! Yes, Joe is a secret Girlfriend, although not totally, because, you know, he’s still a MAN! But we do have Honorary Man Girlfriends here too! 🙂
I’m sure you’ve had a comment or two from Iowa, the land between two rivers. Autumn comes here, too, and I’d like to have the book to go with the season.
I’m an Iowa girl, once removed. Grandma and Mom born there! But I was born in CA! Still proud of Iowa roots!
I was born in Iowa and all of us, whether born there or once-removed, are proud of our Iowa roots! 🙂
I have always thought how fitting it is that the creator/author of the “Heart of the Home” has roots in the heart of our country! :>)
It’s probably what made the heart of the home possible!
Now I know why I feel as if we are friends!
I’m so excited to see your newest project “The English Diary”. I admire Beatrix Potter greatly, and would love to travel to see her farm. I just had back surgery and am unable to spend much time in an upright position, or walk outside as autumn comes to our town. So I’ve
turned to reading a never ending list of books and visiting a number of creative blogs. Both of which inspire me. Please don’t stop posting, your blog always brings a smile to my face.
Kindest regards from Auburn, Indiana.
Even in sunny Florida we’ve cooled down a bit.
This reprieve from hurricanes has left our skies usually blue…
Thank you for the book ahead of time.
Looking forward to reading it
with
a cup of tea
“Miss Potter” movie
too
Thanks for sharing your talents with us
And the secret word for Tuesday .”………….
“”..”…………………..”..”…….Bondo !
Bondo? What is Bondo? A wall glue? A special gray color? This is a very good secret!
Sounds like something to hold false teeth in! LOL! 🙂
Perhaps it’s an old navy term Susan?? Maybe it means something from days of yore and we’re just not in the loop (too young).
I agree with Pat…sounds more like something to hold in false teeth (or the “Arnold” of his era). But I really think he’s not going to tell us anyway. I had a father just like him, and he’d just keep us wondering. Job done!
Hi Susan: I am from North Dakota and it is starting to be fall around here.
The leaves are already falling cause it has been hot and dry. No rain since August 4th at my ranch. I would love to win your Autumn book. I have some of
your books and am really looking forward to your England book. Thanks for letting us see some of your God given talent. Take care & dont work too hard.!
Hi Susan – Autumn arrived here in Hurley, NY (in the Hudson Valley) yesterday as well! We had a little cool rain in the evening and then the most beautiful bright rainbow, just like you. Today is a perfect fall day and we are looking forward to the cool week ahead. I’m so happy to be out of the hot humid days (let’s hope). Trees are even beginning to show some of their fall colors. I love the changing seasons. They give life a natural rhythm.
It’s funny you’re giving away the Autumn Book. A few years back, they had a stack of them on the clearance shelf at Barnes and Noble. I picked up every single copy and went to the checkout to purchase them, and I voiced my opinion to the clerk and told her these books did NOT belong on a clearance shelf!! They are treasures!! Don’t you know who Susan Branch is?? Much to my dismay, she did not. BUT, every single one of my friends and neighbors recieved one, and they all adore you now. Thanks for being a part of my life for so many years. Can’t wait for the diary. From Grand Ledge, MI.
hello from somonauk illinois!! we live in an old farmhouse about a mile from the “blacktop” down a gravel road! we’ve had some cool nights too (good sleeping!) but tomorrow is supposed to be in the 90’s again i think! i’m looking forward to your new book and would of course love to win the Autumn book !! i can’t wait to see your finished kitchen! mb
Susan,
I’m so excited about the book. Sixty pages so far! It’s like all us girlfriends are witnessing the growth & ultimate “birth” of something really fabulous. I know you & Joe were on the trip but I feel like we’ve been part of it and you are putting the souvenir memory book together (I save every little bit from trips) for all of us. No rush, but when do you think we may be able to have our own copies?
I would love the Autumn book as my birthday is in October. I usually head up to Maine with at least one of my sisters, sometimes a girlfriend or two. We go for a long Columbus Day Fall Foliage/Leaf Peeping/Girls’ Shop ’til You Drop
Weekend. A long drive but well worth it! Have fun on your getaway!
Kathleen
You were very smart to choose an October Birthday Kathleen!
Two days ago a north wind blew into Texas…what a welcome experience after the long, hot summer. Can’t wait for the book about England….it will be appreciated! Thanks in advance.
I love Fall! I love to go leaf-looking! We go every fall to McGregor IA and across the Mississippi into Wisconsin. Always go to the apple orchards in Gays Mills and stop at cheese stores to stock up on wonderful fresh apples and cheese. Caramel Apple Pizza is the best! Apple dumplings are to die for! My family has been doing this for almost 50 years now. Beautiful scenery, a little picnic and awesome family time. Can’t beat it! Patiently waiting for your book on England…..would love to own the Autumn Book!
Susan,
I really enjoy hearing about your New England weather as I sit here in our unusually humid Southern California weather. I will never complain about hot and DRY weather again.
You mentioned you listened to French music in the morning, but you did not say what it was? Please tell us!!!
Ha, I loved the cat conversation you supplied. I am sure you had it correct for both sides.
If you go back to the top of the post, you will see the word MUSICA, click on that, and voila!
Hello Susan,
I love England with passion. The first time I went there, after 5 minutes (the rain, the cabs, etc.), I felt in love. Just like that.
I am dreaming of going back… and your wonderful blog from England was for me a delight (I can’t wait to see your book!). It was like you were living my dream – the dream that I know will come true one day.
I live in Quebec city where it is very beautiful in the fall. But I must admit that my favorite fall place is Vermont. So beautiful!
Thank you for sharing with us so many inspiring things.
I can hardly wait for the book! Thanks for the sneak preview! Love seeing Petey watching over you 🙂
Can’t wait for the diary (and the breakfast book too!.). Petey looks like he’s helping out by making comments like: “Oh, don’t forget when we did this!.” Your lovely 2013 blotter calendar arrived last week. I love it and having so much fun with the blotter calendar for this year. I also bought your 2013 wall calendar at one of our bookstores here recently. It’s so charming. Not only are those calendars delightful, but I appreciate the quality of the paper and printing. I can’t believe your “Autumn” book is out of print! I’ve given out more copies of the “Summer” and “Autumn” books as gifts. Looking forward to your new books, tho. Well, it’s the beginning of the school year and I have about 2-3 hours of work at home tonight. Thanks for the refreshing break! Arlington, VA.
You go girl! Your diary will be beautiful, I just know it. Love seeing the cats and hearing their antics too. Would love winning your book. Marilyn from Portland, Oregon (you know the other Portland on the other side of the country).
I love your books with their hand written script and delightful water color illustrations. Fun to see the beginnings of a project and the amount of work involved to complete! What a wonderful gift to be able to create such an amazing product!!!
I read and reread each and every book trying to keep in the season, but sometimes I can’t help but pick up the others to enjoy.
Thanks so much!!
Christine in Covina, CA
Hi Susan, I’m in Harrisville, Michigan….on Lake Huron right next to the Sturgeon Point lighthouse. We are SO fortunate to live here, although my heart is also in New England. Mostly because some of my family live there. In New Hampshire to be exact, and I am leaving tomorrow to visit them for 10 beautiful days. If my family has to live far away, thank heaven it is in a beautiful place like New England. I’d love to win a copy of your book, especially one that is out of print and unreachable any other way. Never miss one of your blog posts, or Willards, or anything! Thanks for all you share with us.
Susan, so generous of heart and talent, I would love to have an additional copy of
your Autumn book to share with a dear friend. Rachel
xoxo Rachel!
Susan,
Just so excited to get my hands on the “English” book, it will be worth the wait
like waiting for Christmas!!! And I have to mention your blog, like receiving a penpal letter from you! You are always so clever and cute with the stories!
Also, I need to replace some water color paints, could you please tell me what kind you use, love all the different colors in the palette? Happy writing and painting!
Cocoa from San Diego
Greetings from Pennsylvania. I Love the crisp fall air. The most magical time of year for me. I would love to win your Autumn book, I don’t have this one, so it would certainly be a treasure for me to have a copy in my hands. Thank you Susan for all your love and friendship sent to us from across this bright glowing screen, I sure can feel it. ~Hugs~
I look for you everyday and right now we are in a campground just southeast of the Catskill Mountains. Today we walked on the ‘longest elevated pedestrian park in the world’….the Walkway Over The Hudson. It was great fun. Thanks so much for taking the time to show us a peak of the new book! I am trying to be patient! 🙂 So………..Hugs from New York!
Susan, loved your post today! It makes me so excited and eager for my favorite season, Autumn, to arrive here in Tulsa, Oklahoma! We are starting to see little signs of Autumn blowing in- a little cooler temperatures (low 90s HA!), morning dew on the grass, and the breeze picking up a bit. I cannot wait to hear more about your England book- what a great that will be! Please send us pics of the kitchen renovation- love seeing pics!
Susan, I would LOVE to have my own copy of your Autumn Book, especially a signed one. Autumn is the absolute best time of year, and now that I’m retired, I will have lots more time to really savor it. Hope I win!!
Jacki from Chattanooga, TN
I am kitty-corner across the water from you on the Cape where I “discovered” your books many years ago at the old Carr’s (now Stop and Shop) in Orleans. After so many years I can still remember where the books were displayed by the main entrance and how thrilled I was to find you. I immediately bought everything you had written and anxiously waited for more of your magic. Every new book is a treasure. Love your attitude! Love your style! Thank you for sharing your life with all of us.
After the stressful day I have had today is makes me feel good to read your blog. Found out today that my hubby has to have double by-pass surgery. I keep telling myself to take a deep breath. A nice read about all the wonderful sights of Autumn would be so good. This is coming from a California girl who now lives in Iowa.
Thinking good thoughts for you and your hubby!
I pray all goes well for your husband Jana!
Jana, may I send good thoughts to you and your dear husband as he goes through surgery and recovery. God’s Blessings….
Jana…today I accompanied my 64 year old husband to his cardiology appt. He is the survivor of a heart attack and resulting triple bypass…at the age of 49. I am most thankful for the medical skills and technology that have kept my husband in good health and repaired the damage to his heart. Have faith! Praying for you…Charlene of So. California
From an Iowa girl her lives in Colorado – My husband at 53 – three years ago – had a quadruple bypass – He’s doing quite well. Prayers to you and your husband. I think he will do well but be forwarned! He will look like he was attacked by a bear by the time they get done with him! 🙂
Greetings Susan,
I love the Fall season. Every month with out fail, I read you Days book.
To celebrate each month.I am originally from Nova Scotia but now live in Ontario Canada.
I have a cream color house with a picket fence.We are kindred spirits for sure. I look at the world as you do and find so much beauty.
Love all you do and who you are.
Violet
Hi Susan — We are starting our second week in Maine for our fall vacation. You can feel a change in the weather. The air is crisp and cool at night. We walk the dogs down to the water several times a day, enjoying the ocean while we can. Back to New Hampshire on Saturday. Am working on a rug hooking project and just relaxing. Looking so forward to the English diary. You’re putting your heart & soul in to it. Lucky girlfriends!
Dear Susan,
I’m quite looking forward to your new book!! Thank-you for sharing all your wonderful adventures with us 🙂 The Autumn Book Rocks!!
Warm regards,
Melinda from Quebec, Canada
I love reading all your posts, but the ones about England make me dying to travel again!! Such fun! I would love the Autumn book for my (selfish) self…I actually took out your Summer book from the library after trying to buy it twice from two different places…sadly, I was denied both times because other people (apparently) snatched it up faster than me! (so that’s my sob story..think it will have any power with the Random Number Generator?) Can’t wait to see the kitchen when it’s finished!
We live in Normal, so you would think things around here would be — well, normal — but we find ourselves with ceilings to patch and paint (an overenthusiastic thunderstorm) and sidewalks to reform (tired dirt) — there’s always something not quite normal around here. Love hearing about your adventures!
LOL, not normal in Normal! 🙂
Belinda(Hobbs, N.M.) since I was reading the posts from England every day I feel as though I was on the trip, but I didn’t take any pictures or write a journal. Even more reason I will need a copy of the English Diary as the best memory of my trip!
So love your delightful work. We have a tuxie boy named Barleigh and a mature lady tabby named Pam. They are just like Jack and Girl. Barleigh worships Pam and Pam just wants him to get out of her face. Cats bring us such joy and so does your blog. Thanks so much for sharing, Susan.
Loved seeing all your colors and knowing they will grace the pages of your new book. I have always loved September, the back to school, news clothes (and new handbag), new supplies, sweater time…..a favorite. I am especially looking forward to the cooler weather because a very dear friend sent me a gorgeous sweater that she knitted just for me! maybe Vanna will pull my name for the book – then I will have double happiness this Fall!
Fall is the best season of all!!! We traveled to northern Michigan two weeks ago and hints of color here and there but the temperature still too warm. I am getting antsy for sweaters and cords and sox and my down comforter. Our farmer’s market looks and smells like Fall and that makes me smile all over.
Heading to Napa for a week vacation this Saturday. We have never been out there and cannot wait to see all we can see. Wine tours and some dinner reservations made but the rest of the time is open for quilt shops, tea rooms, gardens, redwood forests, ocean views and whatever pops up as we drive all over the area.
A copy of Autumn would round out my collection of SB books nicely…I look in every used book store I enter for that special gem. Maybe this is my lucky post.
Keep up the good work Joe; we look forward to the BIG REVEAL.
Lindy and Christopher in Holland, MI
Goodness! I take a very brief time away from my computer and -look!!- a new post and over 700 comments!
What fun it was to take a peek at your Diary. When I read “60 pages”, I was filled with excitement!! Oh, good! A nice fat book filled with all sorts of creative beauty and nifty information. (I haven’t forgotten that this Diary comes complete with a dictionary of British words!)
I think we Girlfriends were very patient, while waiting for another post from you. Did you notice that we filled our time by chatting up a storm in the last post that you did? It was a lot of fun! I think we could have gone on and on. BUT it IS fun to catch up with what you, our Darling Sue is up to.
I’ve read a few of the Girlfriends’ comments and it looks like, for many of us, autumn has blown in and charmed many of us with its blue skies and cotton ball clouds AND fresh air. Yay! No more humidity! We opened the windows last night. I fell asleep to the sound of crickets and the “clip clop” of Amish horses on the ridge above my home, taking families home from a Sunday full of worship, food, and fellowship,.
A big hello from the suburbs of Chicago where fall is in the air here as well. Love the Autumn Book Susan, I have it displayed prominently with the fall decor and just finished re-reading it. I’d love to give a copy to my sister in law who always thumbs through your books when she’s here visiting. Again, no pressure, but I can’t wait for the Diary to go to print! Crossing fingers and toes, pick me please~
I found your blog while you were crossing the ocean on your way to England. Every day I read of your travels. I think you see the world with the wondering eyes of a child, and the wisdom of a woman. I am sure I got more out of your trip than I would if I had gone on my own. Thank you. I love your writing and your art. You make me want to walk through Marthas Vineyard. I am enjoying your kitties. My own kitty is a siamese called Molly. Truly a one person cat is the siamese much to my husbands regret. The weather is turning to fall at night, but the days are still summer here in Smithville, Ontario, Canada. I would love to win your Autumn book.
Hailing from the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State – can’t wait for your book to be done (and I don’t have your Autumn one so here’s hoping 🙂 🙂
I live in Beautiful Bucks County Pennsylvania. I feel your pain my living room has been under construction for 2 months. I removed off the wallpaper that we had for 24 years and with having an old house, the walls & ceiling needed much repair. So I sit here patiently waiting (with all the furniture pushed into the middle of the room) for him to finish because he won’t let me help.
Joe would rather I don’t “help” either. That’s good and bad! Just think how great it will all be for the holidays!
Susan, I love hearing about your new book, the kitchen progress and seeing what your furry “children” are up to. That rainbow was amazing! I think that’s a good sign, a sign that it’s going to be a wonderful fall and winter! 🙂 I’m really getting excited about your new book, I can tell it’s going to be wonderful! I have three of your lovely books, Christmas, Days and Summer and I love them all! Oh, I’m in Georgia, just a little north of Atlanta. Can you believe I’ve never been to the New England states. One day. Love hearing about Martha’s Vineyard and seeing the pictures you share!
Hi Susan, I always think fall wraps you in love – everything is soft and cozy and the colours – oh the beautiful colours of fall. I was able to buy a preloved copy of “Autumn” and received it a few weeks ago. I used to take it out of the library every fall since you wrote it and now I can enjoy my own copy all year round. Love that Petey is helping you with your English Diary. After all, he was there. Your kitchen will get finished and you will be so happy. Hugs to you and Joe, Petey and Jack and of course, Girl.
What a wonderful, wonderful post. I am also a fan of the philosophy “Delight in the little things.” We are also doing a major remodel and I have a t.v. tray set up in the back room so I can paint since not getting to do that can make me a very cranky girl. We look like candidates for the next episode of “Hoarders” and the contractor says only 3 more months. (Only??!) *sigh* It’s okay, because it’s going to be beautiful and all this will soon be forgotten. I’m sure you’re living by the same thought process. At least we have fall sneaking up on us….my favorite time of year, too! So happy fall, happy painting, happy day! Can’t wait to get my hands on that diary – your labor of love……super exciting!!
Hailing from Midland, Ontario Canada…. Temperature a cool 24 degrees Celsius (about 75 degrees Fahrenheit) but a mighty fine sunny day….. Fall is peering just over the horizon…..
I love to see the goings on of your desk, it is so inspiring….thank you for sharing.
LOL….I just love your interpretation of Jack and Miss Kitty….it is so cute….
blessings,
Cindy♥
Greetings from Bend, Oregon! I can hardly wait for the England journal! It looks fabulous- but I would be thrilled to get the Autumn book to fill in till then!
I also look everyday for new news from your world…in mine I have 1 indoor cat, Chloe, and 4 outdoor, fixed (thanks to me),ferral cats I feed at night. I wish I could hug them , but they are terrified and it is so sad that they are so afraid of the lady who loves them from afar!
Happy Fall! Cheryl
Just beautiful, as always. I am so anticipating the arrival of cooler weather here in Houston. The thought of having my windows open and a nice breeze to sleep in…. Ah, heaven!
What a delicious little taste of what’s to come in your new book. I simply can’t wait. LOVE everything England!
P.S.-Your kitties are precious.
P.S.S.-Oh I’m writing to you from sunny California!
You’re painting and writing like a mad woman… I’m doing the same only with quilts! Up between 330-4, quilt, coffee, to work for 10 hrs, home to eat dinner with Cowboy and off to bed EARLY! Here’s the big difference: you’re doing it for all the girlfriends…. I’m doing it for selfish reasons, ME! Today I pieced together a Christmas quilt while watching The Thin Man with William Powell and Myrna Loy.
After re-reading your blog it struck me that none of us really know or appreciate how much of Susan Branch is in each and every page! YOU ARE AMAZING! I’ve got my cash in hand waiting for the first book off the press!
Glad to see you are going to get some R&R with Joe! There is a faint hint that fall is in the air. Leaves are beginning to turn; hear a lot of geese overhead, and its very cool in the evening although still in the 90’s during the day!
Prayers to America on 9-11. xoxox
Christine – I tole paint and quilt at Tomorrow’s Heirlooms on Tuesday afternoons (I-25 and 136th) – if you’re ever up that way – stop in and visit. It’s a wonderful store and Charlie, the owner, is great! Our weather IS turning fallish! Don’t you love it? 🙂
I don`t already own the book but a signed one would be my little piece of Heaven! I live in the little town of Horseheads, New York and would love to see your book in my mailbox! I have enjoyed going on your England trip with you and I wait eagerly for every blog update! thank you for what you do!
Dear Susan,
We are starting to see signs of fall here in Illinois. I love all our seasons but autumn is the best! I would love to win your book as I do not have that one. And hurry up please with the England book as we are all anxious to get it. Do you have any idea when the book comes alive and we’ll be able to get it? I can’t wait! I have no idea how long the book making process takes once you have it finished.
I wish I was your neighbor….. Nancy
Hello Susan,
I usually don’t post comments, but just wanted you to know I so enjoy your blog. My mom, aunt, and I stayed overnight on Martha’s Vineyard several years ago and loved it. Visited the Lake District many years ago and loved that too, although did not get to see Hill Top Farm. Take care — Susan of Norfolk, Virginia
So glad there’s hope for cooler weather, it’s been hot and Humid here in San Diego, can’t wait till i get to wear a sweater, thanx for everything Susan reading your blog always makes my day.
Susan
Hi Susan, I am in Whitehorse, Yukon. Our fall is VERY short (we have already got snow on the mountains!) and I am trying to enjoy all the colour before it is gone. In my neck of the woods it is the time to pick low bush cranberries (after first frost). We will put some of these in the freezer but be sure to use some for cranberry sauce for our Thanksgiving feast.
Hi Susan and all,
I live in Salem Or and yesterday I ate the first Bartlett pear off the tree in my backyard, that’s how I know it is officially Fall:) Peaches and tomatoes and corn are for end of summer but apples and pears and plums are for Fall. I have and love your Autumn Book and last year gave a copy to my daughter. If I was to be so lucky as to win another copy I would send 1 to a girlfriend, of course! My sister has it already too, it was she who introduced me to your work years ago.
My kitchen has been in the chaos of remodeling all summer, now I know why noone strips and repaints their old woodwork! It will be glorious someday! Thanks again for sharing with us, love your blog.
Here’s to us, for surviving kitchen painting with charm and grace. Or, anyway, here’s to us!
Good evening from Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina! The humidity was down today, and the 85 degrees actually felt cool! My husband and I enjoyed a lovely morning riding our bicycles on nearby Sullivan’s Island. I LOVE your Autumn book! In fact, I have our county library’s ONLY copy of it at my house right now! It has gotten to be an early fall tradition that I check your Autumn book out and read it from cover to cover. I sure would be thrilled to have my own copy!! 🙂
Greetings from Avondale Pennsylvania, mushroom capitol of the world !! good eats.
I love fall – it is my very favorite time of year when skies are blue, the air is crisp, and wagons full of pumpkins start showing up on the side of the road for sale by farmers in the area. I enjoy reading your blog and allowing you to inspire me to “do” something around the house!! Hope I win your book – that would just be awesome!
Thank you for the picture of the flowers in the window. I am soooo looking forward to the diary of your trip and so neat to see the work in progress. I love that you are using your handwriting to tell the story! Keep us posted because I try to check each day to see what you are doing. Cindy from Georgia
Hi Susan,
It’s finally cooling down here in south central Pennsylvania. I’ve heard a few crickets in the garage. (Somewhere I heard that’s a sign that fall is coming.) Fall is my favorite time of year, and it’s also when I have a birthday. I truly enjoy your posts. I always enjoy reading letters from people who write the same way that they speak. (I hope that makes sense!) I think it’s a true gift and it must be why I have been enjoying your books & Willard’s over the years. Enjoy this lovely time of year!
Susan, I can’t wait to see – up close – the lovely pages of the English Diary. I have your lovely seasons scrapbooks, so I know I would love love love the Autumn Book. Thank you so much for all you share with us.
Ok, so I decided what I am going to do since I made the roasted beet salad last night was make something from the Autumn book everyday. Tonight I had the Steamers (page 35). My husband brought them home from Net Result. They were perfectly 2″ oval succulent and absolutely wonderful. My son even had some with me. He is learning to love seafood slowly (at 25 yrs old) and I am thrilled to have had the first experience of sharing a bowl of steamers and a crock of butter with him. LUCKY ME!! Just another example of how you continue to inspire us all and our chcildren. You even have the “trickle down” effect!! Tomorrow is French Chicken Soup on Page 57. I even have those exact little soup crocks you painted on that page! I think everyone with the Autumn book should do what I do and we can all share our experiences right here on your blog. Thanks so much Sue!!!
Well, it’s 8:45 pm. I am going to clean up my kitchen, take a bubble bath and slip into my favorite flannel night gown. That’s is why this is my absolute favorite time of the year. FLANNEL!!!! waaahoooo!
I know, flannel! What a miracle! And steamers!! My favorite. I’ve actually had them twice in this last week, both at the Blue Canoe, upstairs, overlooking the harbor. They do a good job with them. We are still eating out much more than usual, what a mess the kitchen is!
I live in Marietta GA, but spend alot of time on Lake Burton in NE GA. Last weekend the weather was cool. It seems as if the reds are changing or is it my fondest wish to have it sol Your blog meant alot to me today. It has not been one of my best days, till I read your post. Thank you for taking the time to let me here from you.
Hi Susan
I write from West Hartford, CT. I bought the Autumn book last year and LOVE it!
I would like to win a copy to give to my neighbor friend, Barbara, who is always on the lookout for fun things for me. tonight she surprised me with an old state of New Hampshire glass that she found in a shop because she knows that I collect them. She is a great cook and entertainer and would love her own copy of the book. Happy almost real fall. It is so cool and crisp here tonight…love it
Autumn! My favorite! From Cape Girardeau Missouri, where sometimes fall is gorgeous….and sometimes it sort of never happens. After the drought we have had…I’m keeping my fingers crossed!
I’m happy we are sharing the first taste of fall. You in New England, and I in Eastern North Carolina.
What a masterpiece your book will be, in fact, it already is a masterpiece in progress. I can’t wait to buy this wonderful book! Hooray! I loved your trip and now we get to live it all over again. I love the Fall Book, too. It’s a beauty, too.
Susan : I just can’t believe all the talent you have!! I love everything you do. Your book will be wonderful.
I live in Frankfort, Kentucky and am sooooooo ready for fall. I would love the inspiration of having your book! Thanks for the opportunity.
I’m from Texas where it is finally cooling down and a hint of fall in the air. And hint it is as we will probably still have many very hot days. And I am so anxious to haul out all my fall items for the house as pumpkins will be in abundance until after Thanksgiving. I will hang my appliqued pumpkin quilt over the sofa–a treasure I’m so glad I finished after 4 years. Am closely following the book about the trip to England which I enjoyed following each and every post. And your kitchen remodel is so fun to watch.. Who doesn’t love to watch a transformation like that? Can’t wait for the revealing!
Hey it’s Anna from Union, KY! Ok, so Autumn Book is the ONLY book I don’t have and what better way to get it but to have it signed by YOU! Can’t wait for your England Book to get published! Thanks for the incredible blogs and letting me journey with you 🙂
If you meander into New Hampshire you may want to mosey on into one of the little villages that Tasha Tudor used in her Corgieville books. Natalie wrote a post about it in June on the Blog she writes for The TT family. My husband says to tell Joe to be sure to visit the King Arthur Flour store in Norwich, VT. We went in June and came home with 50 lbs. of Artisan flour and 25 lbs. of all-purpose!
Hello from Roselle, Illinois. My husband might throw me out of the house if I buy and bring home one more book. But, since the Autumn book would be a freebie, I will risk it.
Keep the posts coming!!!
Be like Lucy Ricardo, hide things under the bed! 🙂
Hi, I’m in West Hills, California which is in the far end of the San Fernando Valley (as you know the burbs of Los Angeles). I also have 2 cats that keep me company and make me laugh. I’ve been a fan of yours for years and have been reading Willard and now your blog for years. I love reading your stories, hearing the music you love, looking at the pictures and illustrations that tell about your life, you trips (to England) and more. Keep up the great work and inspiration we all love.
I am from Kansas City, Missouri. For those who don’t know there are four Kansas City’s. Three are in Missouri. One on the south side of the Missouri river that is Kansas City another is Kansas City North, (North of the river) and North Kansas City also North of the river. They are in 3 different counties, Platte Jackson and Clay. Then there is one in Kansas.
No wonder I don’t know which end is up sometimes. I do know that I truly love to read your blog and would love to add Autum to my collection
Lynn S
Greetings from Greater Boston! Cannot wait to read your English diary and would love a copy of your Autumn book to sit next to my Summer book.
Hello from Minnesota. Tomorrow’s forecast is 92. Not exactly Autumn, but soooo like MN. One day can be like Florida-the next Alaska.
I loved giving Autumn to my autumn birthday friends and would love to win this one for myself.
Loved coming home to your blog today. I really needed it.
Bless you for lifting my spirit!
Hello Susan…love hearing about your new book! Can’t wait for it! Can’t wait to see your kitchen either! I am writing from West Chester Pennsylvannia…where it feels like Fall as well. I would love a copy of your Autumn Heart of the Home book!! I love Fall and I love your books and unfortunately I don’t have that one!
Happy Day,
Cara M.