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! ♥
Greetings from Charleston, IL! Wishing you a wonderful Fall season!
Your writing flows so easily and familiar, as if we were just chatting over lunch or coming home to an old friend…….Can’t wait til your “Great Britain Diary” comes out. Thanks for the sneak peek! Those kitties are the “cats’ meow.” Adorable! And my friend, Cheryl, and I, inspired by you, continue to save for OUR GB trip in 2016 for 6 weeeks!
Kindest Regards,
Barbara from Kansas City MO
That’s when it’s the best, long term planning, and then dream coming true!!! You and Cheryl are going to have a wonderful time!
I currently live in Windsor, CO just at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. My husband has been looking for a job since January and we had planned to finally see New England in the fall. I told him if we planned a trip he would get a job, and sure enough, he has a temporary job in Los Angeles until Dec. So, now it will be a warm fall for us! He is already there and my sister is coming this week and we will drive through the Rockies and make our way to LA. The Aspens in the mountains should be beautiful at this time, all orange, red, and golden. I was thinking of you the last two days as I happened on a set of blue and cream dishes made by Royal Stafford in England. They are beautiful with flowers and birds and I went to the shop twice debating whether to get them. There were twelve – that never happens! Well, happy birthday to me. I really did think of you and thought “I bet Susan would like these”, as well as my local girlfriends, and can’t wait to have them over when we get home in Dec. A good day to you!
That’s going to be a beautiful trip! I also find that new dishes are very inspiring when it comes to giving dinner parties!
From the pastures of Texas, I send greetings! I So enjoyed your latest post, your water color paintings inspire me to create! The rainbow over the steeple was Awesome, just like our Heavenly Father to paint for you! I always look forward to reading your blog, thank you for sharing yout talent… Blessings to you and your sweet “family”.
Hi, I enjoyed your visit to the UK immensly, and it brought back so many memories for me, as I emigrated to Oz when I was younger. Now over here we dont get an autumn really, nothing like the autumns I had when I lived over in the UK… to this day I miss that time of the year terribly!
I would LOVE to win the autumn book as it would bring back even more of those lovely autumny memories! ps is there a scratch and sniff page in it? that when you scratch it it smells like autumn leaves?
There should be!!! What a great idea!
Greetings from beautiful Oregon. I was just thinking about you yesterday, when I opened a tub of fabric and found some pieces of the first fabric you designed, the language of flowers. I wish you would reprint it. It’s my favorite. I love the pansies and morning glory.
Sweet Jayne, thank you!
Clayton, NC is our little slice of heaven and whenever we go to the metropolis of Raleigh, all via interstate, we are ever so glad when we get back home. We pull into our shady tree-lined lane and heave a very big sigh of relift that we are truly and safely once again home. Love the teasers and will love the anticipation of the surprise even more when the book comes out. You really do such beautiful work. Judy C
Greetings from the Central Coast of California…loved looking at photos of the newest book in progress! Does your cat have any idea how famous he is? What a beautiful memory of England you will have on the shelf. Looking forward to the kitchen makeover too:)
AHH Fall! I love Fall but not really the season that comes after. I am from Shipshewana, IN. I own a coffee shop here right smack-dab in the middle of Amish country. I hope I win the lovely Autumn book!
Must be beautiful there!
What is the name of your coffee shop! We love to travel in the Midwest.
Ah, you are so industrious amidst the kitchen chaos and the tempting distractions. That’s so smart to have a mini vacation planned, light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak, and fun, too. Loved the kitty conversation, they are just too cute for words, no pun intended, and I believe they know how adorable (and how loved) they are. Don’t want to see the sunny days and all the other good stuff that says, “summer”, go by. But I am afraid it is time to bring on all the harvest decor – saw the sweetest sugar pumpkins in the market yesterday, have just the basket to put them in. Hope the weekend brings beach weather, heading to the Cape, and then I’d like to fit in a leaf peeping trip myself. A warm hello from over the state line in Rhody!
Your recent post have been great! I look forward each time I open my ipad to see if you have written again! Where do you find the energy. The long hot summer is finally cooling off here in So. Illinois, Godfrey to be precise! Alas we can now open the windows amd let some fresh air in. Thanks amd keep writting! Laura B. from Godfey.
Always energy for the fun stuff! 🙂
I’ve used your ‘Days’ book as my journal every year for over ten years and was so happy to have your calendar on my fridge all year this year; my little girls and I are going to make the cornbread from September’s page tomorrow! Thank you for your wonderful work!
Shelayne in Nova Scotia
I want to see a sunset rainbow! An unexpected treaure, like ones found on a road trip with no agenda! Savor the season,
Mary E.
Love the post. The kitties look so peaceful. I know this is a rare moment because I have three. One was by choice; the other two have stories with them. I would love to win the Autumn Book.
Autumn is my most favorite time of year…the world is in such a golden glow. The trees are starting to turn here in Sullivan, Ohio. The evening shadows are lengthening. Goldenrod is lining the roadway. Heaven!
I’m from a little town in Mississippi between Mobile and Biloxi. We were trapped in our home by flood waters from Isaac for seven days. It is so nice to finally see the sun shinning and to feel cooler temps. Susan,I love to read your blog. You are such a blessing! You always lift my spirits.
Seven days! I’m so glad to hear from you Kathy!
Susan, it’s SO exciting to see the stacked pages of your new book in the photos you’ve shared today — even out of focus, the anticipation is growing! (and I just love looking at your desk with all the delicious colors of watercolor paints). I’m sure ALL your girlfriends would agree. Here in Okemos, Michigan, autumn is in the air as well, it was a BEAUTIFUL day, filled with sunshine. Today I saw your calendars while out doing my errands. I bought two of the little ones. One for me, one for a gift! I love that it starts this month! ADORABLE. It’s already loaded into my handbag.Thank you!
I’ve been wanting this book ever since I found your blog and saw it was out of print, I was sad. I’m from hot, dry and wilted Oklahoma. But I was in lovely green Lake District this spring and would go back in a second.
Sending love from Algonquin, IL..but wishing I was in Derby….perhaps even at the Knockerdown!
Thank you for your delightful work.
I am originally from New Jersey and I’m really missing that part of the country right about now! I love reading about your home and soaking up all your pictures and art! I’m staying in Las Vegas right now, so as you can imagine there is not much of a fall season! I have to live through your blog 🙂 And the Autumn Book would be a lovely prize indeed!
It is the most beautiful time of the year!
Thanks for showing us another glimpse of the English Diary. I can hardly wait until I have a copy in my hands. Already have a list of people I want to buy it for as gifts.
Hope you have a wonderful break at the end of the month.
I live in Tallahassee, FL and really wish we had a true Autumn here. We might get a few days temperature-wise, but I would love to see the colors change and feel the chill more often. Just began reading your blog, and loving it.
Me. From Kenosha, WI. LOVING the fall-like weather, too!
Hi from southeastern PA!
What a beautiful post as usual.
Oh but, your book —- I can hardly stand it to see that stack of pages and only be allowed to see the top few. Wahhhh! 🙂 I can’t wait — in fact, I.Want.It.Now! I think I caught a glimpse of your kitties in there. You sure know how to build anticipation, Susan and I love it! 🙂 So I’ll work on being patient………………..:)
Thanks for the chance to win your Autumn book.
Oh Susan, your (our?) book is looking so exciting and beautiful! I can’t wait! I am glad that Pete is helping you keep the water colors in order,lol! Wow that rainbow is awesome, you’re right! I don’t think I have seen one with such brightness! So glad that you and Joe will be getting away for much needed time away to revitalize! Have fun! Got my 1st fall decore out, yes, the Autumn book! So excited, didn’t have it last year, found it earlier this year! Love it! I know whoever wins it will just love it as well! It is sure alot cooler here in the beautiful mountains, fall is definetly in the air, but I ( growing up in Laguna Beach Ca,) would love to smell your ocean breezes as well!
Hugs Susan!
Chirp Chirp!
Holy Camoly! 770 responses! I can’t imagine!
Here in Butler, PA, 40 miles north of Pittsburgh we have magnificent falls with a slew of colorful deciduous trees mixed with a backdrop of rolling hills and evergreens. So absolutely beautiful! But not yet. I’m still in summer mode, can’t give it up quite yet though I had 3 blankets on my side of the bed last night and a kitty.
What I would like to know in your English Diary is simply what do you want us to know if we never get there, or if we do plan to go, what shouldn’t we miss and why. Pretty simple. I am looking forward to it but don’t rush it, enjoy the process sweet Susan!
My best to you,
Diane Marie
You are so right, thank you for that reminder, the “sweet process” is everything!
The fall leaves are one of the things I miss the most, since I left the midwest and moved to Santa Fe. But we have wonderful crisp nights, which are heavenly. We just had our standard 3 minute shower this afternoon, which really made things cooler and refreshing.
I loved your post today! Who am I kidding??…………….every post! This one had it all; tales of the two kitties, a sneak peak at your new book and hints of autumn on the way and an incredible rainbow. Fall is just a hint here in Vancouver, Washington teasing us with a slight chill in the mornings and nights while we enjoy our last days of summer.
Can’t wait for the book to be finished!
I anticipated seeing a kitchen reveal in this latest post, but reading about your book (diary) certainly did not disappoint – can’t wait! The Autumn book would hold me over however, here in Millersport, Ohio. 🙂
PS Tonight as I read I felt honored to have such a precious glimpse into your thoughts and life. Thank you for continually sharing so willingly. You inspire me.
I am traveling to New England with four “girlfriends” at the end of the month. Maybe we will see you! Wouldn’t that be fun?
From Texas
Love, love, love reading your blog…reading, seeing all you do. I look forward to your new book…here in the Upper Penisula of Michigan (Marquette). Susan Thompson
good evening susan!
i can hardly wait until the English diary is published! you sure teased us with the posts from England just left me wanting to read (and see) more of your adventures over the pond. the first one i purchase will be a gift for my daughter. she loves England and loves to write and paint. hehe, she is a susan in the making only right now she tends towards the early 20th century dark and mysterious, like sherlock! this weekend we had a backyard party for a few friends of ours, five families, we do this every fall. as i was setting up the tables and such i kept thinking, “how would susan make this comfy, cozy, fall and friendship looking???” we had a great time, candle light in mason jars, fall flowers, good food cooked over a fire. thanks for always sharing your ideas! i would love to add the autumn book to the collection.
look forward to seeing some fall pictures of the vineyard. as you know, we do not get alot of traditional fall colors over here!
On my “day off” this week, I’m headed to the bookstore to see what “in print” books of yours are there. I only have a few right now and I’m thinking adding to the collection is a must! I enjoy the blog so much. After a busy day, I love taking a few moments to see what you (and yours) have been up to in your part of the world. Thanks for all of it!
I am here in Massachusetts…looking forward to your new book and enjoying this wonderful weather we are having!!
I am so happy to have found your blog!!!
Susan, just a short story/thought. We live in Raleigh, NC……a great place to live. We were hosts to family of friends because we live near Duke and the Cancer Center. Mark has brain cancer and was seeking a miracle treatment at Duke. I couldn’t stop thinking today what would I be feeling if I thought this would be my last fall? Let’s all enjoy life to the fullest every day. Love your zest for life. Blessings, Lee
Sending prayers for Mark!
Hello Ms. Branch,
What a beautiful post! I LOVE you and your site. Thank you for sharing your wonderful world. Fall hit us too last night here in coastal British Columbia. Boy did the rain come down hard. I look very forward to your new book. The sneak peeks make it look delightful! Having a signed copy of anything you write would be wonderful! I look forward to your future post following your meanderment!
Take care,
Jen, Powell River, BC
Greetings from Cincinnati, Ohio….life is very good here right now …yesterday we welcomed home our grandson from a year in afganistan on his 23rd birthday…it was truly a day that will be with us awhile…. My heart is bursting to over flowing…..
can’t wait for your book on England..but disappointed that you will not be on Martha’s Vineyard the last week in Sept ..we are coming to vist!!!!maybe you’ll wave to us on the Ferry…love every thing you do….can’t wait to see the kitchen
Pat Beckman
Hey from Indiana. Autumn is coming in quickly after we had such a drought all summer. The soybeans are being harvested and the butterflies are everywhere. The hummingbirds are still visiting the feeder at my second story window and I saw the cutest little barred owl on the sidewalk during my morning run a week ago. I even stopped to talk to him.
I also visited Lacock and Beatrix’s home during one of my ten visits to England to see my daughter’s family where they were serving in the Air Force for six years. I am excited to read your England diary. I just recently found your blog and have read every word. Tonight I finally caught up to the present blogpost. Love your words and work.
It would be thrilling to win your Autumn Book. This is my favorite time of the year. I live in Bullard, Texas which is in beautiful East Texas. We’ve had a couple of cool mornings lately, but it always seems to end up back in the 90’s before too long.
Hello Susan! It is definitely fall here in the Pacific Northwest. We have had no measurable rain for about 50 days, but the air is crisp and the pumpkins are turning orange.
I love your autumn book and I know that my sister would love a copy as well. Touchdown chili is a big hit in this house!
Happy Fall!!
Kathy
I live in AK, and I have been a fan of your work for a while. I’ve been enjoying getting your inspirational messages in my email whenever they come. They inspire me to work on my own painting and drawing! Thank you.
Hi Susan this is Shelley with an e. Who wanted you to paint the kitchen pink. I live in a tiny little town called Home, PA isn’t that great. I can always say I live at Home. I have a first edition copy of all your books and so does my daughter, but how wonderful it would be to have an autographed copy. Here’s hoping. Enjoyed the post today. I look forward to your posts everyday even if it is the same. Can’t wait to see the kitchen. xoxo to all girlfriends
If I’d known about your town first, I surely would have moved there!
loved the idea of joe changing the lights and not you said my daughter Emma,s she’s eight. We read you every morning when there is a new post. We are waiting patiently for Fall, its still too hot here in California. Emma said she loves the kitties too. Have a great week. We can’t wait to read the book.
Please tell Emma I said a special HELLO to her!
Wow! Your creativity and energy is amazing! Can’t imagine how I could even focus with all the distractions going on at your house. And both of those adorable kitties – SO sweet! Well, I can hardly wait for the official first day of fall here in Louisiana. We got that first hint of cooler air this past weekend, and ofcourse, we had to make a pot of gumbo to celebrate. Yum! Your book is REALLY coming along! So anxious to get a copy; when it’s finished and ready for us girl friends. And the pic of that georgeous rainbow – God’s promise – right over that very old beautiful church on your street – no words for how beautiful!!!! Enjoy your beginning of fall – the best time of year. And once again – I really love your Autumn book – so a signed copy would be a treasure. : )
I have The Autumn book and I love, love, love, it! I displayed it last weekend on my cookbook stand as this sweet book is part of my Fall decorating. I did indeed give it as a gift once. Now that I am thinking about it, I am going to take it into the classroom tomorrow. My first graders will love it AND I am teaching them about seasons! Perfect! By the way when you hand write each book which is another thing I can show them do you use pen or watercolor?
Summer is winding down, my vegetable garden is a memory, we are eating the last of our tomatoes, so sad, but fall is coming to San Diego! We have six Liquidambar trees in our garden which will delight us with fall colors as our weather cools, the leaf colors may not be as brilliant as the east coast variety, but glorious to us nonetheless.
I would love to add your Autumn book to my fall decorating scheme. Thanks again for another lovely blog into your world, love the England book already, love the photos of the water color pallets, rainbows and cats. Can’t wait to bake my first pumpkin pie of the season! Hang in there over all the kitchen upset and good job Joe! You are a jewel.
Susan, this post touched me so. I cannot wait for the book. We are the ones who just moved back to the US (Richmond, Maine) from 20 years in England. Our 1852 Maine house is so like yours it is amazing. Our English things are very much at home here, and now so are we. The heart can move to another home….Thanks for your uplifting joy of life! Keep it up.
Leslie
How is it being home? How does it feel?
At 64 it was time to return to the homeland but you must know that part of me will ALWAYS be in England. Becoming a Maine Yankee is fun and this quirky history-filled house, like yours, will give us loads of fun and probably keep us fit! Oh, and my favorite room…. my walk-in pantry!! Don’t you love yours? It is sort of a playhouse for me. Thanks again, Susan. You give us all so much!
Leslie
Beautiful up there, and of course, the history! Yes, the old pantries–wouldn’t it be great to see them as they were originally filled? Welcome Home Leslie!
My goodness– you are such a hard worker!–But when you are blessed with your gifts, — I’m sure its lots of fun. How amazing it must be to draw and paint like that, and your handwriting is so pretty too. — It obviously takes a long time to make a whole book, but this one is going to be sooo fun to read, I can’t wait to see it- but understand that patience is in order here– I look forward to this blog as all the ‘girlfriends’ do, but I realize you have many irons in the fire, I’m sure we all understand that.– I love how you look at this world and all that is in it, and when I see the comments left – its nice to see your blog seems to draw so many good hearted souls. I have your fall book (a gift from my daughter, she discovered you first), –have been enjoying it and the Vineyard Seasons -fall section laterly , Fall hurry up and stay! -the weather here can’t make up its mind just yet.
Susan,
Autumn is definitely in the air today! Lows are in the 50’s and the humidity has gone away. We should have an extraordinary weather week! Thank you for the glimpse into your creative work in progress, looks like it will be a wonderful treasure for all of us to own. You really do pour yourself into every page, and that’s why we LOVE it. Enjoy your leaf peeping road trip, take lots of pics for all of us to see. Can’t wait to see New England in the Autumn! Have a great rest of the week. Hugs to all!
Karen C
Hi Susan!!
Loved the teaser on the diary. I can’t wait to read it. I was just thinking that my Summer book will have to be put away soon and how I wished I ha.
d the Autumn one to replace it with.
Lucy
Aliso Viejo,Ca.
Hi, Sue~
I feel like we’re all sitting in the living room having a wonderful conversation! Your blog just has a way of connecting us all…and making this big, wide world a little smaller. You’re always saying that you’re lucky. I firmly believe that you are receiving so much because you put so much “out there” for everyone else. You’re a very generous, loving spirit and if anyone’s lucky….it’s all of us on this end of your blog!
I am fascinated with your angel cards….never heard of them until now. I wonder if you’d share how you came to have them. I wanted to share a story about words with you. I LOVE words and the power of words. Our daughter was married in mid-August here in central NY. Much of the wedding details were handmade; from the invitations to the centerpieces. It was all a labor of love. The reception was held in a very beautiful Adirondack style lodge, nestled in a wooded area with enormous vaulted ceilings, enormous windows and an outdoor deck overlooking a pond. There was a winding, paved pathway through trees and greenery from the parking area to the lodge. It was nicely mulched but void of any color. I gathered a bucket full of smooth flat stones from nearby Lake Ontario and in my very best handwriting, I painted a word on each stone. About 30 words…each appropriate for a day filled with love and celebration. I used the little squeeze bottles of paint. After I finished embellishing them with paint, I put 2 coats of lacquer on top to protect from the weather. The stones/words were scattered along the pathway along with fresh hydrangeas in mason jars hanging from 4 ft. shepherd hooks. It was a very unique and lovely detail that will always be remembered. The stones now have new homes in the homes and gardens of family and friends.
Now that Autumn is fast approaching, I find myself reflecting on this past summer and the joyous wedding celebration in our family…so much to be grateful for!
xoxoDebbie
I’ve had my Angel Cards forever it seems, so long I really don’t remember where they came from, I think maybe 20 years or so! They always sit on my desk. My word today was “Truth” — and I promise this is true!
With temps in the low 70’s today and low 50’s tonight, it seems like Autumn is already here in Northern Ohio! However, as we always say here – don’t worry if you don’t like the weather here, it will change tomorrow. We are expecting to be up in the 80’s come Wednesday. I can’t wait to see the scrapbook of all our adventures on our summer vacation trip to England. I actually started saving all your posts to make a scrapbook – thank you for doing it for me 🙂
Hi Susan,
I felt the first air of Autumn today in Sandwich. The air made me want to hang my Fall Flowers on my doors. Didn’t take long and the job was done. I love the change of seasons, each means something special to me.
Packing my bags, getting ready to head for New Hampshire to spend time with my Grandsons while my daughter and son-in-law go on a 20th Anniversary trip. Seems like just yesterday we had their beautiful wedding.
New Hampshire probably will be a little cooler than the Cape. Maybe I will get to see a few Autumn leaves. I hope this year will be a blaze of color.
I don’t know if I would have a chance to win your Autumn book, if not I will keep looking for it in different shops. Happy fall, Marion
Loving the cooler weather (90’s instead of 100’s) here in Plano, Texas!
Fall is the best season of all! I checked your Autumn book out at the library years ago and I’ve been a fan of your work ever since! Would love to have a copy for my library, to inspire me through “Book Osmosis”!
Hello from Oklahoma! Where the wind really does come sweeping down the plains! Your Autumn book has been close to my heart for many years, but my best friend in Hawaii does not have one. I introduced her to you this summer with the Girlfriends book. And, you know how it is….you cannot have just one Susan Branch book. She needs the Autumn book to look at everyday and remember what fall is all about. So, if I am ever-so-lucky to have my name picked, it will go to my best friend, Tish (short for Latisha) in Hawaii. She is from Oklahoma, too. ♥
Autumn is here, isn’t it? I had to drive my children all over New England today (well, it seemed like it, anyway) and I came home very tired and drained, but my sweet husband had a lovely fire going in the wood stove. It’s the first one of the year and it smelled so good! It almost–almost, but not quite–made me wish for winter to come.
Greetings from Long Beach, California where it is balmy and warm! We just returned from a cruise on the bay (Alamitos Bay) in our ski boat and watched the beautiful spinnakers of over one hundred catamarans returning from a race. It was glorious! It is the world championship and sailors from all over the world are racing in my backyard! You would love it!
Can’t wait to read your book and return to England again with you!
Have a good week! Happy Monday, Susan Christmas
Susan, Here on the North Shore of Lake Superior, it is feeling and starting to look like autumn. I’m hoping the first frost won’t come before the tomatoes ripen! I’m looking forward to your new book, but would also enjoy being the lucky winner of your Autumn book. Thanks for all the beauty you share. Anne
Greetings from Kansas! We are having gorgeous weather here. Finally got a little rain a few weeks ago so things are looking green again. Picture perfect weekend with blue skies, temperatures in the upper 70’s. We had the windows open, no ac. Nothing like sleeping with the windows open at night. It can get terribly hot here in the summer with high humidity, but I love the fact that we have 4 seasons, and we had a wonderful spring and usually have great fall weather too.
Loved seeing your book being brought to life. It will just be fabulous! Thanks for giving us a sneak peek.
Hi Susan, your book along with your kitchen is really shaping up!
Of course, I ‘d love to win a copy of your book but if not, I will
Own one!
Thxs for sharing!
Mary in Indy!
Susan, I am always amazed that you take the time to share what you are doing! It makes it very easy to “picture” it all and feel like I am right there…it would be thrilling to get a signed copy of your book! Enjoy the days to come…and thanks as always for sharing!
Blessings from your biggest fan in Ohio. 🙂
We had a beautiful day in Michigan. 72, sunshine and a light breeze. We spent the whole day washing windows, all 40 of them, including screens. We have window walls with transomes and arches so there was a lot of ladder work. Sparkling windows makes viewing the beautiful colors in Michigan even better ( I really don’t like washing windows so I think of it as my reward for a job wel done) Fall is my very favorite season so it’s not surprising that your Autumn book is also one of my favorites (I have your whole collection and I treasure each one). I would love to surprise my daughter with this delightful book so I’m keeping my fingers crossed. Your post was such a treat. Can’t wait till your book is out!
Thanks for the peek into your new book! How disciplined you must be! I would love to win a copy of ANY of your books – I have several of your beautiful cookbooks and I love them all.
Hi Susan, Your new book looks like it is going to be so much fun. I love all your books and calendars. I live in Connecticut in the Litchfield Hills. Fall is beautiful here. I would love to win your autographed copy of the Autumn book. I hope you enjoy your New England trip. Thank you for sharing your life with all of us. Linda
What a beautiful book that is going to be! I just finished painting my kitchen cabinets too and shared it on my blog. I couldn’t stand to live in a mess so I completely finished one section of cabinets at a time. It took me four weeks to complete and I’m so glad I did it. I live smack dab in the middle of the country in a small town outside of Kansas City, Missouri.
I am in San Luis Obispo and I just wanted to say that I SOOOOOO appreciate you being you. I love your blog and your sense of humor. Every time I see Jack and Girl kitty it makes me think of my 17 year old black and white Mama kitty. She passed away 2 weeks ago and I was blessed to have her in my arms when she did. So I especially love the kitty pics. Please take of yourself and thank you.
love Kim Wilson. San Luis Obispo
Gotta send along a hug for you, Kim – I know just how you feel. Here’s hoping you will have a new little friend soon – and of course you will always have your wonderful memories… xo :>)
What a double reading treat…a Susan Branch give-away blog and my copy of the Fall “Friends of Gladys Taber” newsletter, newly arrived! I am blessed by the JOY that leaps off the pages of your delightful blog and off the pages of the dedicated writings that honor Gladys Taber. Thanks for the preview of your Diary!! I am looking forward to its publication!!!
With much appreciation…Charlene from the San Fernando Valley in SoCal.
Susan,
I love the pictures of your kitties, especially the rare occasion when they are both together. Autumn is my absolute favorite season. It just does something to my heart. I would love to win your Autumn book. I live in a lovely little town, Pittsfield, IL, named after Pittsfield, MA.
thanks so much for sharing your creative process. i always find it so inspirational. i am on a trip to the oregon coast and drawing and writing in my journal. it will be wonderful to look back on. love that you talk about your journals and what interests you.
enjoy your trip, patti
Dear Susan,
I “discovered” your work at your booth at a quilt show when I bought I tiny piece of fabric (which I so love and now of course which I had bought it all-green fireworks on off white). Much to my surprise the nice lady working the booth gave me a calendar. I saw your books there but I was too consumed by the quilts and fabrics about me to realize I loved them. Back home the calendar mesmerized me and it’s still hanging up even though it’s last year’s.
I love summer but autumn is overtaking my heart because it brings fresh air and mountain crispness into my town of Santa Clarita, CA. Love, Pam
I have been MIA lately due to a bad monitor that was lacking in color lately. So today I FINALLY broke down and bought a new & bigger monitor. Color me Happy. I can now see your blog, in full living color on a 24 inch monitor, which was the first thing I went to when I got it hooked up :)Your book looks wonderful, cant wait till its out. I liked how you said its something made out of nothing ..nothing but your rich imagination and talent and visit to a wonderland and you said its pretty cute.. which means we too will love it. Loved seeing all your Art supplies all laid out too. Loved just seeing the post in full color. 🙂 Hope the kitchen gets done soon so you can get back to enjoying all that cooking. Roseburg OR.
I’m in Branson, MO. visiting. Live in Iowa, Love Iowa!
Me thinks that is the best rainbow I’ve ever seen.
We live in Arlington, Virginia, in an old house that always needs TLC. I would love a copy of your Autumn book. Best of luck with your new book as well! It was fun to see it in progress.
Hello from Delaware….oh don’t you just love the movie Miss Potter? I found it at the library this summer and adored it. Keep up the good work with the kitchen and have a great time leaf looking. Coming through Delaware by chance?
Kathy
Not now but maybe after the book comes out!
Fall has arrived in North Idaho. The wheat is cut, the chick peas should be harvested in the next few weeks. The temperature is supposed to be 32 tonight. I love it!
Ohhh I can barely wait for the new book and if its anything like the Autumn book, lfe will be grand!! Still summer here in Omaha, can barely stand the idea of +90 degree temps in September, but that’s what it’s going to be here this week, ugh.
Hello Susan! Thank you for letting us peek in to see a wee bit of your English Diary book!!! It looks enchanting!!! You are so organized and disciplined…..how do you do it? The rainbow in front of your house was just for you….God knows you are so deserving of many more!!! Jack and Girl Kitty are truely siblings through and through. (Opposites due attract!!! ) How exciting, another contest!! Oooooooooooh, what a treasure to have your Autumn Book!!!! Good night from Dearborn, Michigan!
Thank you for offering the book. I am so looking forward to your new book. It was such fun and so interesting to read about your trip to England. The only thing better than being there myself is to see your interpretation and transcription of it all- in an artistic way! What a treat that will be! Happy Autumn! BB
I so look forward to your Blog everyday ! Each year I cannot wait for your new calendars to hit the stores ! It’s as if we’re neighbors, sharing the same things and same kinds of days. I’m from a little village in Wisconsin and we have beautiful Autumn days here also . Some of our leaves are already turning color. We also had a very old farmhouse and I loved it, so did my dear husband. However, it was always work, work, work , every year there was some sort of project. Goes with the territory. We have since moved to a “newer” colonial (1940) , but all redone inside and out….we love it here ! It has the scalloped bookcases, nooks and crannies, all the special things you don’t see in new homes….personality ! So I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy you sharing your life with us and I’m looking forward to your new book….Bless you !
Hi Susan, Greetings from Daytona Beach, Florida. Longing for the cooler weather, but we won’t see it for a few more months. I keep forgetting to tell you how tickled I am that you knit. I took it up about 2 years ago and I love it. I have made many new friends through knitting and my life is so much richer for it. It does sound crazy to be knitting in Florida, but we use cotton and lighter yarns during the hot weather. I have made many scarfs and hats as gifts and am now working on my first sweater. What do you knit?
Fondly, Joyce (ChiChi to my knitting friends – long story).
I’m so excited seeing glimpses of your England book. I can’t wait. Love following your posts from Newport, Arkansas. I already have your wonderful Autumn book, but would love to win a signed copy…I’d keep it and give the other one away. haha. Thanks for the chance. Your fall excursion sounds fun. My hubby and I are planning a little fall foliage trip to Northwest Arkansas in a month or so. I can’t wait, I love this time of year. Happy Fall!
Hello from Lexington, MA! I was on the beach in Mattapoisett last evening and was enchanted by the same beautiful rainbow…..it was so lovely! My daughter has been visiting from Washington DC and over the weekend she enjoyed reading through my copy of your Autumn book….so I would love to have a copy for her….she is a heart of the home kind of girl! Enjoy the gorgeous Massachusetts fall!
Angel cards! love that idea. so looking forward to the diary, I know it will”take me away!”
elaine from Novato, Ca.
I always look forward to your blog updates. I have a female cat that looks so much like Jack, her name is Kitty Baby. She’s nine but still the baby although we have two other younger cats. Don’t know what people do that don’t have cats! Enjoy the cooler weather, here in Rapid City, South Dakota (near Mt. Rushmore) it was 100 degrees today. It’s been a long hot summer, we are looking forward to fall and some moisture. Thank’s for bringing us along on your adventures.
It is beginning to get a little cooler in Dothan, AL as well, but it is certainly not time for a sweater yet…sigh…hopefully in another month! But I have the blessing of cutting all my impatiens back and getting one more bloom!
Your English diary sounds so wonderful, I can’t wait to read it! I love Beatrix Potter, Emma Bridgewater and England! Hope to visit some day. I do love your Book of Days and have used it for my journal the past three years. I will be starting my fourth one in October. Thanks for always making the day brighter!!
Please send some of that cool air to California – we are still hot hot hot. You know the kind of hot with sweat running down your back if you are outside. I would love the Autumn book – then I could pretend its fall. Can hardly wait for your new book.
Oh joy of joys, Susan shares a taste of the Englad book.. Wyoming wind is blowing and not a tree is near to catch it. I can only imagine your future leafy journey. Being an East Coast gal gone West, I fear for my heart in October here in Wyoming.
Jena (Wyoming)
I can only imagine!
How I wish Autumn weather would reach the Texas Gulf coast, where I send you greetings from Port O’Connor – it is in the 90’s today, and so I am getting my little bit of fall from your blog. And while my hubby is on a Harley ride, I am doing a little pre-fall housecleaning, including giving away some of my cookbook collection, which has over-run its designated bookcase(s) a bit…but all of yours are safely tucked away on my ‘special treasures’ shelf of course! Can’t wait to see the new book, and loving the little peeks at it.
Autumn, my favorite season! I don’t know if it’s because I was born in October in New England! Crisp cool air, ripe apples, the smell of fallen leaves, pumpkins turned orange and a big pot of mums by the front door. But, I now live in Surprise, Arizona!! The far west side of the valley. That valley being Phoenix. So now Autumn begins HOT but holds hope of cool mornings and pleasant days, and the chance to open doors and windows. Apples can be found at the market as can pumpkins and we do have large pots of mums. But somehow as autumn approaches I can still smell the season and I keep my memories of autumn in New England very close to my heart!!!
Hello, Susan, from Canton, Ohio! Loved reading about your process of creativity! I have a question for you………are there times when your mind is churning so with ideas that you can’t sleep? How do you handle that? Do you get up in the middle of the night and work? Do you toss and turn until light, and then get up? Do you have a trick to turn off your mind and go back to sleep?
Loved your post and your pictures today. I so look forward to each of your posts. Sending hugs!
I keep pen and paper next to the bed, I write things down, once out of the brain, I’m OK. But sometimes when I read my brilliant, not-to-be forgotten notes in the morning, I realize what a nut I am.
Sounds like your making good progess on the diary. Thanks for the sneak peek to whet our anticipation of holding it in our hot little hands and devouring it! You’d think since we tagged along we’d have more patience but it is truly your talent of putting pen to paper or brush to paper that sends us to the heights of happiness. See I’ve always loved good paper and sweet drawings such as yours. They make me happy and I don’t even know why? All I can say is I’m a fan. Bigtime. Love your work and really appreciate your sharing your adventures with us. Lotsa fun for me and apparently many Girlfriends too! All the best, yours truly!
Katherine
I love autumn after some hot weeks in summer. I’ve started bringing out the fall candles, leaves, pumpkins, and lights.
We have many fires burning right now in Washington state so our air is pretty bad. No clothes hanging out on the line right now.
I love that you share your talent with us, your books are so precious.
It would be fun to have an autumn one.
One of the girlfriends
Rebecca from Washington
Hello Susan, we can feel the heat all the way up here on the shore of Lake Ontario….the heat from you being all fired up making the book. Must say I feel a bit jealous of all you are experiencing…..ideas tumbling in your brain, creativity oozing out of your brush, colors so brilliant the rainbow felt she had to compete, the intensity and the awe of “making something from nothing”……. I love how you acknowledge the magic of creativity while you are in the midst of it. Thanks for the anticipation-enhancing peeks!
Ironic, isn’t it that Joe is painting also….not the sort of painting that gets all the attention. He doesn’t get to go on tour signing chunks of molding or chair rail and his work won’t get to be in the library…. but, hey, he’s wonderfully famous with all us girlfriends!
Autumn is falling beautifully in place here. Picked up a pocketful of acorns this morning, counted 32 Canada geese in a V, and waded in the warm waters edge with my hoodie tied tight against the chilly wind. Love the crispness of it all. As always, DonnaRay
Hi Susan,
I live just about a mile south of the tiny “hamlet” of Glenmont, in Holmes County, Ohio, aka “the middle of nowhere”. The total opposite of where we used to live – in a suburb of Cleveland. Can’t even find our house using GPS. We are on top of a hill surrounded by woods and a few of the leaves are just beginning to change color. Would love to win a signed copy of your Autumn Book – perfect for this time of year. I always look forward to your emails and the pictures of Jack. He is just the cutest! How lucky you are to have him.
I am visiting my daughter in Nashville, helping her move into her new apartment. After a very tiring day filled with emptying boxes, moving couches and trying to fit way too much stuff into a cute but small apartment, how wonderful to be taken away for a few minutes to Martha’s Vineyard and the thought of lovely things to come from you! I am so excited just thinking about your new book, it is so perfect! Just how you described the trip to us each and every day. And also cannot wait for my favorite thing…a trip through New England in the Autumn!
Well thanks for the sweet moment in another place but back to reality here…I see a few more boxes we missed.
xoxoxo
Susan, your posts provide such respite for me. We’re living through the worst year of our lives. You see we lost our beautiful beloved 22 year old son in July in a car accident. Somehow the world keeps turning and the sun continues to rise. But, your posts are a bright spot. I love the artistry, the colors, the beauty of nature, your soft and warm ways, and of course your kitties. Especially Jack. We have a Jack cat as well, and he looks a lot like your Jack without the stache. Our Jack will turn 10 months soon and is a very “busy boy.” Our kitties are such a a comfort. We live in Mesa, Arizona and finally, finally, the evenings are hinting that coolness is around the corner. I haven’t posted much lately but wanted you to know that your work, your art–it comforts me too. Thank you. <3
How can the sun continue to rise, it seems impossible. I am so so sorry Joanna. Words fail me. Only 22. Flinging cyber arms around you right now. xoxo Comfort, what a gentle word, sending you all you can hold.
Tears just sprung to my eyes immediately. Sending hugs…big hugs…to you and your family.
Joanna – my very deepest condolences also. Sue is right, words fail us sometimes when we most want to help. And I won’t say I know how you feel – that would be the ultimate presumption – because I don’t have any children of my own. All I can say is that I hope the time comes very, very soon when you can look back and remember all the wonderful moments and memories with happiness, smiles and love.
Dear Joanna, I am sending you sympathy and prayers and hugs. Sandy Richmond
Joanna, the sun rising each new morning, the moon shining every evening with the stars shining brightly is a gift from GOD to let each one of us know that HE is right here with you loving you and giving you the strength to in time trust that the special memories you have of your son will give you comfort and peace. So sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Blessings
Please accept my deepest sympathy Joanna, in Arizona. May God grant you strength during these difficult days.
* Dear Joanna * 9/12/12 11:34 PM Pacific Coast Time…
Tonight…I was browsing through some previous Girlfriends’ posts to Susan, along with her replies and I came upon your post.
Perhaps you will not see my reply, I know it’s hard to scan back to the original posts or where you, yourself posted, but I felt I just had to write to you.
I am one of your Posting Girlfriends… PGF… “Posting Girlfriends Forever” with Susan, who has gathered us together in a wonderful and caring circle of friendship
I am deeply sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved son. May the comfort of your family and friends be your strength right now and in the days ahead. You are in my thoughts and in my prayers.
Yes, somehow the world does keep turning and the sun continues to rise, as you wrote, but I know you will be brave and you will meet each new day, because of who you are and because of your love for your son.
You will always have your beautiful boy in your heart.
Girlfriend Hugs from,
* Dorothy Ann on Cougar Mountain, Washignton *
Joanna, so sorry to hear about your son. My heart breaks for you and your family. I’ve lost three people very close to me this year as well, and I don’t know how the world continues to turn or the sun continues to shine either. May God wrap His loving arms around you and bring you comfort and peace. You are in my thoughts, in my heart, and in my prayers.
Hi Sue!
I’m very excited to see the finished product in the kitchen. Take pics before you put all the fineries back in their places so we can see the true beauty of Joe’s labor of love.
It is so hard for me to fathom that you’re talking about fall! It’s been 94 degrees here all coming and we’ve just come off of a week of triple digits. The southern breeze from the Gulf Coast a mere 30 miles away (as the seagull flies), does nothing but bring sultry, sticky, humidity. It also keeps those lovely cool fronts from reaching us this far south. Ah well. I suppose it’s the price one pays for living in southern Texas!
I’m so excited for your new book. The sneak peek pictures are so enticing. You have such a wonderful gift, Sue. Thank you for sharing your talents and your labors of love with all us GFs!
Christy in Victoria, TX