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! ♥
Always feel so cheered whenever I read your blog, Susan. Your home is so bright and cozy and I love that you are waking up each day and doing your passion—drawing and writing. I’m from Western Connecticut and you and Joe should come down this way on your leaf-peeping trip this month. Litchfield County is awesome to see in the fall. Pumpkins are showing up already and putting everyone in an autumn mood.
Just went to a garage sale and got an English figurine of Peter’s Momma rocking two babies. Too cute! Watched Miss Potter a couple of weeks ago and loved it all over again! Thank you for the impact of sweetness of your life on all those who read your Blog!
LOVE Autumn! Would really love to have your Autum book! I truly love your drawings. You are so talented. Thank you for brightening my day so many times! I am so grateful for your blog.
Sorry, forgot go to mention that we are eagerly awaiting autumn here in southwestern Ohio.
I can’t wait to see your kitchen! I’ve loved watching the progress. And the book you are working on will be added to my collection as soon as it hits bookstores. Soon, I hope. I’m trying to be patient ~ just like Jack. 😉
Whoops! I forgot to add ~
Mary from Michigan
Howdy From Texas I live in Granbury, to be exact. It is a quaint lakeside town with a beautiful downtown square and courthouse. I am a native Texan and just hate the summer heat here. We had such a pleasant weekend this one just passed. A strong cold front blew in and dropped our daytime temperatures from the 100’s to the low 90’s daytime and low 70’s nighttime..We are so blessed.
Holy Cow! 770 comments before I even saw the blog! The Girlfriends are multiplying by the 100s!
I must say a very warm thank you Susan for caring to paint and write what you think we might enjoy of your life and adventures and of ‘our magical trip’ to England with you and Joe and Petey!
It is a treasure to be able to see your much awaited and already beloved work of heART in progress. You know we are having a hard time waiting for this delight..but we will be patient. We know it will be much worth the wait. We want to hear about the love story of you and your dearest Joe. We want to know what we missed that you will show us next.
We too, here in Indiana have had a relief from the heat that makes me want to bake dinners in the oven again..meatloaf and sweet potatoes and green bean casserole. It smells like dinner at home again. The sun setting earlier..but with such a lovely sky. No rainbows but just the right amount of beautiful blues that bring back memories of growing up on nights like these.
Our sweet little budgies flying around the house for their outing and landing on the shoulder to give us a peck and beg us to dance with them remind us how fun it is to have a pet. We had our kitty, Bickey Bye, for 15 years. She loved to sit on the back of the couch and stick her nose in your freshly washed wet hair, swat at the kids as they walked by and chase those bizzy balls endlessly around the house. She came running to the sound of the can opener and loved to be held like a baby. She was the queen of purring. I guess that’s why I love it when you write of Jack’s crazy adventures and how Girl pretends she barely tolerates him! Ha!
Well, happy writing! It’s time for some Hot Cinnamon Spice tea. (Harney and Sons)
Ooooh! Another precious gift. 🙂 You are so generous! I would love to have it come to Thompsonville, Michigan, which is in the northern lower pennisula. We live close to Traverse City, and about 20 minutes from Lake Michigan. We retired to these peaceful 10 acres just 5 years ago, and love it here. We are on a dirt road, and surrounded by thousands of acres of state land with all manner of wildlife for neighbors. Just this morning there were about 20 whitetailed deer behind the house munching on grass, and black choke cherries, preparing there bodies for the winter ahead. They are so beautiful, and I am so thankful that my husband is not a hunter. Have you ever been to this area of the world? Not nearly so historic as your lovely England, but we are so thankful to make this peaceful place our home. God Bless!!
Hi Chris,
I spent a week at Suttons Bay this past July. I am in love with Michigan! It was so beautiful and so peaceful. I had the best time with my family and hope to be able to spend another vacation there. You are so lucky! It’s been nice to meet you!
Chris Wells
Nice to meet you too Chris. Sutton’s Bay is lovely. Since moving here there are days when I just like to get in the car, drive around, and discover new places. The fall color display here is outstanding. I do feel blessed.
The people that crafted Michigan’s latest tourism campaign on TV should win an Oscar or an Emmy or whatever – or something! It makes you just itch to visit that beautiful state! Outstanding work.
Hi Janet. Thank you for your reply. Are you from Rochester, MI, or in another state? Yes, the promotions for Traverse City (including a gig on the Today Show) increased our tourism significantly this summer. Locals call them “Fudgies”, because most of them cannot leave without buying the fudge that the area is famous for, hehehe. I guess we were Fudgies before we moved up here 5 years ago. 🙂
Hi Susan,
How very lovely to “hear” you talk about the book! It will be so fun when it is finished with your stories, drawings and pictures and taking the trip with you! The rainbow was absolutely gorgeous; isn’t it wonderful to thank the Creator of the universe for His special blessings like that. We live in Colorado and fall is upon us here ; the aspen in our grove are turning beautiful golden colors and shimmering as well. Would love to win the Autumn book. It was so fun; I ordered a copy of your book Girlfriends and it was a used book and signed for Irene with a little note about her retirement. My name is Irene 🙂 so loved that little blessing.
Happy writing and painting,
Irene Talaasen
Looking at the ever-growing stack of diary pages is so exciting! I just know it’s going to be awesome. I truly admire your talent and work ethic. Hope you and Joe have a wonderful long weekend ‘out and about!’ Having just recently moved to the Alabama Gulf coast, my husband and I have been taking sight-seeing day trips, between unpacking and reorganizing our stuff. Today we took a ferry ride across Mobile Bay to Dauphin Island … gorgeous sunshine, pleasant breezes, new landscapes to explore. Pure bliss! As for your Autumn book, my copy is unpacked and on the kitchen counter; but I’m always eager to gift family and friends with all things Susan Branch … 🙂
Hello Susan, Greetings from hot & sunny Los Angeles! I hardly believed it when you wrote that fall had already started for you – but it’s been a long time since I lived in Boston. You probably remember that September was a hot month when you lived here! I always remember sweltering the first month of school in those bungalows with no AC. In fact it’s 8:30 pm right now and I have the AC running, because it hasn’t cooled off enough outside yet to open the windows! And thanks for the peek at your book – I can’t wait for it to come out!
The cooler weather has also come to Wayne, WV. Fall is in the air. Thanks Susan for the chance to win your autographed book. I have enjoyed your work for a long time. Enjoy your well-deserved trip at the end of the month.
Hi Susan- I love how your books are handwritten! Your books give me lots of inspiration and joy. You put so much of you into your work and the love does show.. I keep hoping for Autumn to arrive and even though it is sooo hot and sticky here I know summer will soon end because I just harvested three big fat very orange pumpkins from my garden!
I loved reading your latest post, can’t wait for the diary. I especially enjoyed hearing about your cooling days. We have had such hot weather for so long. I’m envious that you already took out your down comforter! I’ve been looking all over for your Autumn book, hope I’m the lucky one.
I too watched Miss Potter last night and reminisced about my trip to England and
the Lake District and Hilltop Farm a few years ago as well as my virtual trip this summer. Anxiously awaiting the publication of the English Diary! Thoroughly enjoyed Jack’s escapades as a painter’s assistant and Miss Kitty’s look of disdain. My sister and I were leaf peepers last fall driving from Boston to Bar Harbor and points in between and it only made us want to do it again soon! I do so enjoy reading all your posts! Enjoy your fall weather, I hope it arrives here soon we’ve had a long, hot, dry summer and I am really ready for fall!
I escape by reading your sweet blog! Thanks for sharing and can’t wait to see your kitchen!
Greetings from Carmel, Maine. It is beginning to be that wonderful time of year here as well. A few turning leaves, apples and pumpkins at the farmstands and that cool, crisp air with the perfect sunshine. Being a Texas transplant to ME, it is a wonderful treat to welcome each new season and all that each brings. I can hardly wait to get my hands on your diary. Thanks for sharing your sights, sounds and adventures. Love to the kitties. We have three who our children also.
Hi Susan, I’d love to win a copy of your Autumn book. I’m from the mountains of Southern California, in San Diego County. We have four seasons here, too, though Fall hasn’t really started for us yet. But we know it’s right around the corner! Looking forward to seeing more of your diary!
Susan,
Looks like your book is coming along nicely! :o) I just love the depth and character that watercolor art has! It’s lovely! Sometimes I wish I could water color my house! ;o) I know how you feel with your kitchen “out of commission”. Aside from a working bathroom, it’s the hardest room to be without! When we remodeled our kitchen years ago, it took almost 4 months & I was certain I was going to lose my mind!! Happy to say I didn’t though, at least not ALL of it anyway… Hang in there, this too shall pass. Glad to hear that you are still making time for other pursuits. Was wondering what you are knitting? And on that note, curious about how your purple & green scarf turned out? Perhaps a picture for another day? Wishing you more rainbow & beautiful blue sky days!
<3
Tami
Ive not been a BIG fan of Autumn. (Summer is more my cuppa tea. ) I love to read and would cherish a book from YOU! Northwest Pennsylvania is starting so show fall colors, ever so slightly, with some colors flaming bright against the dark green leaves. You can’t help but notice that fall’s creepingaround the corner. Thanks!
I am eagerly awaiting your anglophile book. My dream is to travel to England one day. Until then, I am content to be an armchair traveler reading your blog posts!
As for leaf peeping, I took my mother, visiting from Minnesota, up to Guanella Pass near Georgetown, CO to see the aspen turning gold. It has to be one of the prettiest places I’ve ever seen in autumn. There was even a dusting of snow on the mountain so I’m thinking that fall will be short and sweet this year in the high country. Have fun on your leaf peeping adventures!
Did you by chance eat at the Happy Cooker? Love Georgetown and the aspens in autumn:)
Susan (retiring after this year and heading back to Colorado!)
We lived in MN for 10 years and it’s very, very pretty there in the autumn too!!!!! We had several beautiful sugar mapels all around our property that turned red every year. Gorgeous – and I think of them every year when we go to the high country to see the aspen. Wish we could live in both places at once!
I can’t believe Autumn Book is out of print!!! What is wrong with these publishers? Don’t they know they aren’t allowed to stop printing ANY of your books?!? (At least by me, anyway 🙂 ) So glad I have all of them already! But I do need a new copy of Girlfriends because my copy is LITERALLY falling apart!! I found a “little book” I didn’t have of yours called “Flowers” on Amazon a few months back, and snatched it up! I do that whenever I see them. I also have thousands (and that is not an exaggeration) of your stickers, and have an order coming this week from the webstore that I am MOST excited to be receiving! I can’t get enough! I must tell you a sweet little story about the first time I found a large selection of your stickers at Michaels. It was years ago, when my sweet, wonderful, beautiful, brave momma was still alive and we went to the next town over to shop there. She was sick at this point (she passed away with colon cancer 9 years ago), and we decided to make the most of her day with a little shopping. I went into the sticker isle, and she rolled up not too long after I discovered your sticker’s there. She came up to me quickly because she was concerned for me bc I started hyperventiliating. I turned beet red, and the blood rushed from my head. I could not believe I was seeing in front of me a MASS amount of your stickers ALL IN ONE PLACE!! Well, I started grabbing them all and before I looked at the prices, I had my heart set on ALL of them 🙂 I quickly composed myself but after seeing my reaction, my mom insisted I get all of them… what I didn’t realize was that in order to get them ALL ($85.00 worth) she had snuck and put her items back that she wanted. I was broken-hearted when I discovered this, but it made her so happy to get them for me, I could not refuse. I will never forget that day, or my mom’s understanding of just what Susan Branch means to me.
P.S. I did go back later and get the items that my mom wanted too…I would not have denied her anything because she was my BEST girlfriend ever. I miss her every single day. Thank you for your art and what you give. You will never truly know what you mean to people, or how you bring us together 🙂
I LOVE YOUR MOM. What a dearheart, how sweet, how much she loved you! xoxo How lucky you are!!!
Lovely post! I’m from Northern California.
One year ago my youngest sister and I were preparing to leave our homes for three weeks . . . we were taking Mom to greet the autumn in Maine . . . and to enjoy walking the shorelines and pathways where her own Mother played as a child . . . my homestead in Texas was being left to the felines (Mama-Kitty and Cisco, the six-toed cat) and the red-headed goats aka lawn-mowers (Jake and Mandy), while Riley (the poodle) was going for an extended play-date at a friend’s house . . . it was a wonderful adventure, and your Autumn book would be a perfect keepsake and reminder of those days for our 80-year-old Mom! . . . {hugs} from Texas . . .
Deep South, USA fan! The page with the kitties is perfect – I’m so glad they will be in the new book. It was even cooler here today.
I have an adventurous life, living half the year in Colorado and half in Vers Pont du Gard, France. Ah, and yes we visit England regularly as one of our daughters live there—-gosh, we must visit her, you know! I love Angel cards. A perfect way to begin a day.
Yes, it is your responsibility to visit your daughter in England! 🙂 Sounds like a perfect life Cindy!
Hi Susan,
We live in Frankenmuth, Michigan! Our own little “piece of heaven”. It’s a small “Bavarian Village”, just to the left of the thumb of the mitten! Quite a busy little tourist town for being in the middle of Michigan. There’s lots of community pride & involvement in keeping it pristine. 🙂 There are flowers and greenery growing everywhere….we have festivals of some kind almost every weekend. There’s even a “Dachshund festival where you can see the popular; weiners bobbing for weiners! At Oktoberfest there’s the big Dachshund race with over 100 entrants running their little legs off! Hilarious! But, my favorite is the hot air balloon festival and their “Glow Night”. That takes place at dark. The balloons are inflated, but tethered to the ground and keeping their fires lit – the balloons all glow……. I absolutely love living here! Thank you for the chance to win your “Autumn” book! I have 4 of your books, but not that one! hope…hope…hope! Love the excitement! The diary book looks wonderful. This may be a silly question, but I have to ask; you don’t paint all your lettering do you?
Love it, “just to the left of the thumb of the mitten!” My sister has three Dachshunds, she would LOVE to go to that! I write the black and white lettering with a pen, but the colored lettering is all watercolored.
The autumn book is my favorite! I’ve purchased 3 so far and now they are out of print – boohoo – it’s just the best gift to give from the heart 🙂
Can’t wait to see the finished book, and the finished kitchen. Why does everything take so long? Oh well, your little teasers and giveaways help pass the time. It doesn’t feel like fall here in Colorado, yet. The tree in front of the house is still green, but it could change overnight. School and football have begun again. Just wish there was a beach here where we could have lobster. It’s all so inspiring.
Hi Susan,
I saw your photo of the evening sky with the colorful light behind it. Reminds me of the one my husband and I saw on our 39th wedding anniversary as we were out canoeing on a lake. It was the perfect moment, so romantic with that mackerel sky in all it’s colors.
You are so sweet to give us a sneek peek of your book in progress, I can’t wait to buy a copy, and wonderful that you are also sharing the journey of creating it. I am sure that you are inspiring many people that follow your blog to tap their inner artist!
Cheers….
Jamie
Hello, Hello from down-under Melbourne, Australia, Wonga Park to be precise. Originally from The Garden of England, Sevenoaks, KENT!! Just Love and Adore your blog and avidly followed your trip to the UK and Beatrix Potter country ( which I have visited several times on family holidays and really miss).
Hi Tina! And what is it for you? Is it Springtime? And Kent, omg, Tina, how did you ever leave?
I always read your blog makes me smile every time love Jack and girl kitty..Look forward to your new book .Diane from Pismo Beach California ( I know you know where that is)
Oh yes I do! ♥
Greetings from Sacramento! I enjoyed another wonderful photo blog…a thing of beauty. All is calm…all is bright! I can only dream my life and home looked so well put together. Girl and Jack are so darling too. September 12th is my 30th wedding anniversary! My husband has booked us an overnight stay in beautiful Lake Tahoe! And then at the end of the month, we will be strolling along Waikiki Beach in Oahu! We are looking forward to a wonderful time. Not quite on par as your fabulous cruise and stay in England but I will enjoy that journey again through your new book! It will be a treasure to behold and keep all your other books company on my bookshelf! Cheers, Cathee in California
Hi Susan! This “boyfriend” is still from Eugene, OR, and still addicted to your blog. I am just finishing my first ever Dapper and Dreamy calendar, showing the official Dapper and Dreamy couple through the months. Since I am self-publishing it (I haven’t hit the big time… yet!) I am my own mean task-master.
Your blog continues to give me the inspiration you speak of in your latest post – the inspiration by osmosis method. I am working with a newer (to me) kind of marker – the Copics and Letrasets. They are marvelous! I am not so trusty with watercolors, but I do enjoy them when I start in. I am also trying to do the handwriting “thing” for part of the calendar, but I can’t seem to get the consistent look I am striving for. I can see that this must be a real challenge until one has established “the look”.
Thanks for another great post… Look forward to them from post to post!
Jake
Have missed seeing your comments, Jake. Glad you’re back! And BEST OF LUCK with the calendar! :>)
Hello Susan I am from Clinton Mississippi .i would love to win your new book .leah Sandidge
What a beautiful rainbow! Thank you for sharing it with us! I just love everything you create, not only does it bring me joy but it inspires me to be creative. The beauty you share is such a gift. It makes my heart sing! Thank you Susan 🙂
Dear Susan,
Greetings from Montrose, Colorado. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful life with all of us. I love the journeys I take with you every week. I adore fall so I am looking forward to your next Willard. I am an art teacher so I can’t wait to have a copy of your new book with all of your lovely paintings. I share your work with my students when I teach watercolor painting.
Hugs, Carol
I would LOVE to have your signed copy of Autumn – my favorite time of year! I’ve been living with hot flashes for a couple of years now and after a long summer of 100 degree weather here in the St. Louis area – look forward to the crisp fall days!! I just lost my 14 year old “baby” black cat named Spooky who reminded me alot of your funny Jack. My 14 year old “Peek-a-boo” and I are missing him dearly. Thank you for your stories about your male and female kids – I always enjoy them!
So sorry for your loss, Spooky, I know just what it feels like, so very sad. xo Sending hugs to you and Peek-a-boo!
I just love your blog, it is my happy place. I live in California in the Bay Area so we don’t quite have the autumn that you do. Thank you so much for giving me the
chance to perhaps win your autumn book. It is one of the books of yours that I do not own. Thanks for taking us along on your cruise, too!
Dear Susan,
How I would love to win a signed copy of your Autumn book!
Weekly, I call my local half price/used bookstore in hopes of finding one of your books. I pass them on as gifts! Recently, a young lady has moved into a home across the street from me. How I would love to ring her doorbell, with your book, as a welcome to the neighborhood gift!!!! From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much my “heartfelt friend”!
Hi, Susan. In just 5 weeks we will be in your neck of the woods. I’m finally getting my dream wish to see New England! Can hardly wait! I don’t know if I can swing the ferry ride to MV, but I sure would love to. Just know that I will be thinking of you and the wonderful trip you took us on to England. Your diary is coming right along. That will be such a treat.
Fondly,
Nancy (from Bakersfield, CA)
p.s. to win your Autumn book would be icing on the cake! Thanks for your generosity.
Perfect timing Nancy, from Bakersfield to New England, you are going to enter another world! I’m excited for you!
Hi Susan,
Wonderful blog today. Made me want to cuddle up under a quilt. Cannot wait for a couple of weeks when Autumn officially comes to California. I did notice yesterday that one of my fallen Silver Maple leaves was yellow, with a complete edge of the most beautiful shade of red. Ahhhhhhh! my favorite time of year is just around the corner. When you mentioned your Autumn book, it made me (just had to) go get it off the bookshelf. Now, a cup of tea and thee. Have a beautiful day tomorrow. G’night. Heading for your book 🙂
Since finding your blog in May, you have opened doors to wonders I never knew existed. Fortuitously, I was leaving for London at the end of May but read about Charleston on your blog before leaving so my best friend and I drove into Kent and visited this magical bohemian kingdom of creativity – glorious! I’ve been a fervent Anglophile 31 years but have never been properly introduced to the world of Beatrix Potter until you wrote about her on your blog. I dropped quite the dosh on your shopping blog to create my own little village of Potter People, who are quite happily situated and staying quite clear of Mr. McGregor’s garden. And I would have never imagined picking up a paintbrush after all the times my father wanted to show me how to paint but for the past 3-4 months, I’ve had a real ball. Looking forward to your England Diary and plan to read it with a bit of Cadbury confectionary in one hand and a cup of PG Tips in the other! Cheers Susan!
Ohhhh, wasn’t it just wonderful!!! I’m so glad you got to go! Good for you! We’re kindred spirits!
Kindred spirits, right out of Anne of Green Gables. Yes, I’d like to believe we are. Thank you for what you’ve given to me – it has made my life richer!
xoxo Carrie.
The cooling temperatures here in Idaho (low 90’s) have got my creative juices going and am making some Halloween decorations………..what fun dragging out all my goodies and starting to decorate to get in the spirit of Fall. It takes me so long to put it all out that I have to start early so I have time to enjoy before Halloween gets here!! Have been laying in some new art supplies and alot of them center around watercoloring–do you use the new products as well as the watercolor paints on your table? I am excited about your new book and would love to win the old one since I do not have it! Have fun on your little side trip to see the foliage–I have always said that if I ever got to the East Coast I would love to see New England in Fall (that is where you live right?) Thank you for sharing some of your pages–love the little girl holding the rabbit! Love the photo of the babes!
Curious about “new products?” Not sure what you mean! The little girl holding the rabbit is my version of Beatrix Potter with her pet rabbit, Peter. Happy Idaho fall Linda!
Well, “new” to me like the Tim Holz distress paints, watercolor brushes (water tubes with brushes on end) glimmer mists, that sort of thing. Do you use watercolor pencils ? Sorry-did not mean to sound authoritative just noticed the multi trays of paints and was curious.
New to me too! I don’t use pencils, I think it’s because I’m even less authoritative than you…no lessons means you use what you learned in kindergarten, and that was just brush, paint and water!
Dear Susan,
I would love to have one of your books. You have become such an inspiration in my house whether to make a nice home, a nice diner, or just give joy for the day. I love to read your blog! 🙂
Christelle from SoCal
We in Oregon also got some Fall like weather, chilly, overcast and a bit of rain. It’s a tease because we will be back to summery in the next few days. The beauty of Autumn is that it’s mostly warm with a bit of cool thrown in, delicious!
Your book peeks are delightful. Keep up the good work so we can have it in hand, sooner than later.
Good wishes to help you in your “work”.
Jo
The little peeks into your book are lovely,especially the writing and done-it-yourself paintings .
Look forward to seeing the kitchen makeover.
Philippa in Germany ( originally from Richmond,Yorkshire )
The Yorkshire Dales was the place in England that we got out of the car to look and cry from the beauty! Everything else was gorgeous, but this touched my soul. One of my dreams is to take a river boat on one of the beautiful rivers in Germany! Nice to hear from you Philippa, like taking a little world trip!
You would LOVE a German river boat cruise, Susan! I did that on a tour during high school – Germany, Austria, Switzerland – and it was wonderful. The Rhine meanders left and right, there’s lots of shipping traffic, the river banks terraced quite high in places [vineyards growing practically vertically], towering castles up on bluffs – looking just like Grimm’s Fairy Tales or those travel posters you see. We were there in August and couldn’t have paid for better weather. Plus we were served lunch on board – I can remember the wonderful hot creamy tomato soup to this day.
Travel is such a grand thing!!!
Hi Susan, I am surely your biggest fan in Switzerland! This is how far your inspiration goes! I just ordered two copies of the Angel Cards, one for a very good neighbour and friend of mine. What a wonderful idea! And they should pay you big time, their sales must be soaring after you mentioned the angel cards in your blog. I can’t wait for that Autumn book to come out, it’s my favourite season since I was a child, rustling the colourful leaves with my shoes on a walk through the forest. In Switzerland, autumn is the mountain hiking season, having a picknick on a alp meadow, roasting a sausage over an open fire. Oh, too bad, today is book keeping day! With love from Switzerland, Connie
It’s bookkeeping day that makes sausage day so wonderful! Love hearing from you Connie, say hello to beautiful Switzerland for us!
Your idea about “Book Osmosis” appeals to my librarian heart. My home has books in every room, and beyond reading, I love using them for decorating. In your stack of books, I love the look of Warnes Book of Happy Children—isn’t that a great title? Would love to see inside…. Also I appreciate your effort to be exacting about birds and trees, naming them properly…..just love the reasearch aspect! Would love adding your Autumn Book to my collections.
Oh yes, in here (my studio) I have Louisa May Alcott, Abigail Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Helen Keller, Gladys Taber, Mark Twain, just to name a few, and I pray, by the time I’m done, they will have imparted every bit of their magic, genius, and wisdom possible.
I’m enjoying reading your blog after a long day at work. Everyone has gone to bed and the house is quiet. It’s just me and my animal friends on the couch together. It doesn’t get any better than that!
Perfection, I have that right now, just me and the kitties, and the creaking house. Lucky us!
Jack’s and Girl’s dialogue always make me chuckle, since my two kitties have the same tendencies. Happy fall weather from Goose Creek, SC!
Your Autumn book was my introduction to you, and I was hooked immediately. I love getting it out for display and use at the beginning of the season (almost there!). I’ve gifted so many of your books and calendars over the years – everyone loves them. I do so love reading about your adventures, big and small (the small, homey ones especially). Thank you for sharing your lovely life with us.
Oh, would so love to win your Autumn Book! I own your Summer Book, and when we had a fire at our house last summer, it was one of the books that I kept (they made me throw out most of my books because of smoke and asbestos damage) So, your Autumn book would be just perfect to join the Summer book in my new kitchen! And I am so looking forward to your book on your England trip…I’m sure it will be spectacular!
Oh, my! I should be better at checking my Facebook — I’m WAAAAAAAY down the list, aren’t I? 🙂 But I’ve ALWAYS wanted that book (ever since I found out you write books)!
I just ordered the Summer book and another one, but I don’t have the Autumn one…please enter me, and thank you. My goal is obtain all of them. By the by, I found a Gladys Taber book~my first! in the free bin at the library. It’s called Conversations With Amber and it’s about Mrs. Taber and her cat. I love it. And I wouldn’t have known who she was, if not for you. 🙂
Greetings from sunny Chester, UK. Cool crisp morning, very definitely autumnal! Rain on the way, so we must enjoy the sun whilst we can! Since moving over here to the UK, I have definitely realized the meaning of the phrase to “make hay while the sun shines,” as we get so much of it one learns very quickly to make good use of the sunshine while it is about! I’ve also learned that you don’t melt in rain and it’s no excuse to stay indoors! I, for one, can’t wait for your newest book on your trip to my beautiful country! I will be first in line to buy it! I recently purchased your blotter and wall calendars for 2013, along with your Willard’s booklet and was so thrilled with them. I have original copies of several of your earliest books and adore them as well. Just keep doing what you do as you make so very many people happy in doing so. xxoo
Oh thank you Marie! You know, it rained A LOT while we were there, but we didn’t care either, it was still SO beautiful! Happy Fall, you do deserve a little sunshine!
What a blissful post – kitties, flowers, England, Beatrix! I cannot wait for this book. I am literally praying – as it is important stuff – that this single mom with a not-so-good job has some extra money the very day this book comes out as I MUST have it! I’ve been in love with England my entire life, and even though my daughters are adopted from China they now love it best too as I have fed them on UK glory their entire lives! Thank you for a bright spot at the end of a hard day’s work.
Hi Susan,
I’m Eszter from Hungary. For this reason, maybe I am not eligible for your book contest, but I love your website and wanted to comment anyway. I think we are kind of kindred spirits… We share in many interests and loves. I have fallen, like you have, truly, deeply, and madly in love with England. I was lucky enough and had lived there for 6 months. Hence, I can’t wait for your new book coming out… Have a nice week!
You are definitely eligible Eszter!
“…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!” ” – This is just TOO FUNNY!!!!!
And what a great word “Meanderment” is!!
You always make me laugh so much!!
Thanks for sharing the making of your book with us! How exciting!!
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA oxoxoxox
P.S. I bought the little book, KNITTING FOR DUMMIES, and I am attempting to teach myself. I already crochet, but I love the look of knitted things!
Oh, Susan. Just the snippet of the book you have shared with us puts joy in my heart – just seeing your writing makes me anxious to read it, every single page, word and picture. I have a dear friend who is ill and who is having a chemo treatment today, on her birthday. I gave her a copy of “Girlfriends Forever” as a gift for her to read and enjoy. She is a cook so the recipes will give her something to think about cooking. Her husband just brought her a little “Jack” kitty home to add to the family – his name is Sox and he is full of mischief. I’m not sure the girls, Tiggy and Boo, like him very much; but Midnight, the only boy is enjoying his youthful antics!
I am in Indiana and it is a bit chilly this morning, but it will be 80 degrees today and soon the leaves will be turning. Again, I am a born and bred New England girl so your pictures remind me of home. Have a terrific day – we are patiently waiting for your wonderful diary to share with us.
How much fun it was to get a sneak peek at the England Diary!! Wow, you’re really a fast worker….I didn’t think we’d see it so soon. I love the photo of Girl Kitty and Jack! I can’t wait to see your finished kitchen. It is still very HOT here in Southern California. I’m so wishing for cooler weather. I’m hoping to move closer to the ocean so I can smell the ocean air more often. Sure, I can drive there easily enough……but I want it to be all the time! I’m actually looking at places, hoping to find something soon. Something small and older with character would be wonderful. I wouldn’t mind winning a copy of my favorite of your books! The one I have is not signed. Miss Potter was on T.V. here late at night. I watched it and knit too!
Good Morning Kirsten!
First off, I see I’m not the only one awake at this hour! I have so enjoyed your books etc. over the years but now I feel like I am one of your girlfriend’s that you visit with on the phone. I hope you know that your blog and all that you share in it is such a blessing. Thank you.
Almost forgot, greetings from NW Montana where fall is creeping in. Love it!
Good Morning Ellette!
Hi Susan,
I am from Cleveland Ohio originally and now live in Greer SC. I have been following your blog everyday for some time. Love the Kitty’s and of course your trip to England. I would love to win your new book. You have such a beautiful creative mind. You are blessed. Glad you are taking a break, you do need to do that to keep fresh.
The weather has finally cold down some. It as they say been a “Long Hot Summer”.
Good morning from upstate New York! Leaves have been dropping this week so fall is arriving. I love reading your kitty dialogue!! It just makes me smile. Maybe you need to do a little cartoon book?? Your autumn book is the only one I do not have of yours so I would love to be entered into your drawing.
Kathy
hey! this is ann from arkansas! i love to sit back and read your blog in the morning with my coffee. you live a charming life……. oh and i would love to win your book 🙂
GOD BLESS AMERICA, LAND THAT I LOVE……let us all remember September 11th. It was 11 years ago today that we lost so many. It still makes me cry. Let us all take a private moment and pray for ever lasting peace.
The saddest day ever.
You have the same angel cards as me. Today mine says “enthusiasm”! Autumn is my favourite season and here in Ontario, Canada, the leaves are just beautiful.
I’m from Kansas City, MO and fall is starting to arrive here, but it is still a little warm. We have had a hot, hot summer so we are ready for a crisp, cool fall with presipitation. I currently have your Autumn book checked out from the library and I am anxious to try out the Touchdown Chili you recommended when it gets a little cooler. I would love to have my own copy of the book as I have written down several of the recipes down on cards to try. My daughter’s wedding is this Saturday, so I have many plans after we get the wedding over with. It has been a busy year of planning. Have a great day everyone!
I’ve never tasted a more delicious chili! You will love it!
Good Morning Susan! We have a “nip” of Autumn in the air here also in Wisconsin. It is my favorite season. With the drought we had this Summer I fear that we are not going to have the colors that I always look forward to. Sooo, I thought I could just fly to Martha’s Vineyard and hop into your trunk on your “leaf peeping” trip! Yes, I think this is a VERY good idea. I cannot wait until your new book comes out. Is there a projected release date?
Every blog entry that you write inspires my homemaking and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Sidenote, a few weeks back I purchased a SAD light from Amazon and started to use it for 30min each morning as soon as I felt the shift in myself and the desire to keep my jammies on. Thank you for that! Your entry about a year ago motivated me to do something about the bluesy way that I feel beginning every Autumn. It shines on me even as I write this. You are a blessing to all of your readers and most especially to me. XO
P.S.- New Haven County-CT
I have also discovered and am a big believer in Vitamin D for the same reasons, I actually got to put away my light last year, because of D! Just FYI!
I’ve discovered the huge range of problems attributed to a lack of vitamin D………. from heart disease to depression……..certainly something to look at for most people . Here in Australia we’ve spent the last few decades teaching people to stay out of the sun through the Slip, Slop, Slap programme ( i.e. cover up, wear sunscreen and a hat) and now even children are lacking in this vital vitamin
Yes, I felt so much better when I started taking it. I try to stay out of the sun too, as I have become one big freckle from my years living in California sunshine, roasting to a fine brown crisp on the beach at Zuma!
Thanks for that info. I work in a doctors office and you cannot believe how many folks have a vit D deficiency. Makes sense for the SAD sufferers to have their levels tested.
Changed me that’s for sure!
Same thing here–got mine tested and it was practically sub-zero!!! Feel a lot better when I take it!!! 🙂
Dear Susan,
My sister and I met you and Joe at a book signing when your Autumn book first came out in 2004. The signing was in Braintree, Ma. Since then, I bring your lovely book out every fall and enjoy reading through it for inspirational ideas. My favorite pages are 22 and 23 where you write about the history of your house and what might have occurred in it over the many decades since 1849.
I am eagerly anticipating your English Diary. Enjoy this beautiful season. xoxo
Good Morning Susan,
I would love to win your “Autumn”book. I first meet you when I was a member of the Gladys Taber fan club, “Friend of Gladys Taber. I love the photo of you and Gilly at your rose arbor. I have twenty- five Glady’s books but not one of yours.To win my very first “Susan Branch” book would be so extra special! I hope “Vana’s” reach finds my entry. My Birthday is November the 4th, so I think this is why I love “Autumn” so much.
Susan, I am Betty Marie, from Pennsylvania
love, love, love the Autumn book. Here in Clinton, Mo, it has turned very autumny here lately. Had a gorgeous weekend and it is now in the 80s daytime and quite cool at night. Our Miss Cally Sue, our beautiful calico is loving every minute. Windows open, I don’t think her nose has ever worked as hard before! Much love !!!
Hi Susan! What a beautiful post. Thank you. I’m in Georgia, and we’re just beginning to feel the coolness of autumn in the early mornings and late evenings. It’s my favorite time of the year! I’m looking forward to your England book. Thanks for pouring so much of yourself into it. Happy Autumn! 🙂
Autumn is my favourite time of the year but here in Australia we’re moving into spring. The weather is warming up and the sun is shining. I walked through a public garden early this morning which is blooming with all the spring flowers that my Mum always grew in her garden when I was growing up………poppies, pansies, ranunculas………….good memories of her. Have fun on your couple of days off.
Amazing world we live in!!
Good morning Susan, it is a sad day …really does not feel like 11 years ago. Girl and Jack made me smile and that rainbow is so bright and beautiful. Did you make a wish? Can’t wait for the book to come out and live the beauty through your words and drawings. Whether it is your books, blog or Willard’s that I’m reading, I am always (and I mean always) left filled with inspiration and a happy feeling. P.S I made your gingerbread cake a few days ago as I do every beginning of September and then often through the fall and holiday season, and as always it was so delicious and made my home smell wonderful!!
So happy to hear that Darlene; those kinds of homey things are what got me through the reason for this terrible anniversary.
Susan I recently moved from east Texas to Nashville tenn. I’ve lived in Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma! Everywhere I go I take your books. They are the accessories to my kitchen!
Hello from Australia Susan! While I’m sitting here struggling with the pleasures of hay fever as our garden begins to wake from a very cold winter, my thoughts of new England in the fall are many! Ive started my thanksgiving gifts for the table and dreaming of sights, sounds and smells of the approaching winter for all you on the other side of the world….sunny days and greetings to you all 🙂
Hello way down there! Have a wonderful spring! Thought about you, all winter, while we were dealing with a very hot summer!
It’s autumn here in New York, at least for today (back to the 80’s by Friday!). Love your blog, it always lifts my spirits!
Here at the foot of North Mountain in Pennsylvania we had that same rainbow early Sunday evening. My 22 year old step daughter took many photographs of it, she wanted to reach out and touch it. Thanks for the French music, I don’t know the words but enjoy it very much. Happy creativity to you!
Oh, oh, oooooh! Pick me! Pick me! Pick me!!! =] (Well, a girl can dream, can’t she? Over a thousand comments – oy!) I’d, still, love to be entered into the drawing for the Autumn Book, please. =]
I know what you mean about fall coming yesterday. It was such a funny divide between summer and fall, this year. It was warm one day, those storms blew through (Oh, yeah – I’m in Vermont, I should say) and the trees were only looking a bit worn and faded. Then, yesterday, the color of the air and the sky changed to that crisp blue and it was like Tinkerbell had come through and touched the trees and, suddenly, real colors are starting to melt over the top of them. All at once! and my toes are so cold!!!
I love hearing you describe the creative zone that your in. It’s a precious gift – worth diamonds – to have your heart and your mind pouring out in that way. I LOVE those times!!!
I like your pile of books! =D (I’m just resonating with your post so much and don’t really know how to express it. Anyway….) I grew up in Pasadena, CA and after college, I worked for a short time in a little, very, very British tearoom and gift shop, called Rose Tree Cottage. They were (surprisingly, for a teeny tiny place) the largest carrier of Beatrix Potter-ware in the United States. They were always doing something extra special and fun – Scottish teas at Christmas. Soirees with Noel Coward music. Lecture series! and for one of those series, THE Judy Taylor came! She spent several days hanging out with all of us and, then, we had a wonderful evening lecture with her. Her and one of the owners did a special minute gag to introduce her. Edmund dressed up as Jemima Puddleduck and she dressed up as BP and she chased him. Silly but FUNNY! =] (Hams! =D) Anyway, I have a signed copy of Judy Taylor’s book, “Letters to Children”. Obviously, about BP letters to children – including the beginnings of so many of those loved books. Hope you don’t mind my reminiscence!
and, I went and got a cup of tea in the middle of the last paragraph and started thinking of Beswick and your book and…. just to say it to someone… I want to collect Beswick cottage-ware teapots, etc. so badly! One of these days!!!
Enjoy your cozy and concentrated days. It sounds like your heart is just humming along! =] and, happy, happy adventuring! =]
and, as ALWAYS, thanks for the inspiration! Can’t tell you how much I mean that! I’m off to go enjoy my centering time and to be brave with my creative endeavors. You’ve reminded me of what a joy it really is! xxo
Love,
Katy xxoo
Have fun Katy, I can tell that you will! 🙂
As always your blog and books inspire me to make my home a better place for the ones I love most! From the Heart of my Home in Texas!!!
Hello from England ! It’s actually sunny now, with big fluffy white clouds, it was a fine misty rain when we woke up this morning and thought we would need our umbrella’s. But it was enough mist to water the grass and flowers, of which I am planning to take out this weekend and plant more fall type plants, mums if I can get them yet. There is a chill in the air which puts me in the mood for decorating in the fall theme. And to bake! Today I just said the exact words you said In the blog, make something out of nothing. A few days before payday the groceries can get limited so I hoenstly feel like I have to get creative! I made peanut butter cookies from scratch, because for some odd reason we have a ton of PB, anyhow, loving the updates on the book , should we put in a request for it, cause I know it will be sold out.
Have a great day!
Peg
Hi Susan, I’m so excited to see the book in progress, you’ve put so much hard work and time into it and it looks fabulous all in Susan Branch style. I love your work and so look forward to a new book. I imagine sitting by the window with a cup of tea on a cool autumn morning following page by page and reliving your trip to England. I know every one of us is anticipating its arrival! Even Petey! I see he has been giving you moral support through this venture!
I think the end of the rainbow is right there at your house, where there is so much color, love, and happiness. How wonderful too all the work that Joe does, he’s so sweet, what a great guy you have there, and that little rascal Jack just waiting to get into something, and Girl just “sighing”. Just wonderful. ~East Longmeadow, Ma.
I love reading your blog. Your story telling transports my imagination. I move right along with it and visualize each step of the way! I’ll bet your book is awesome and I’d love to have it!
P.S. I’ve never read one of your books but now that I’ve found your blog I know I will be!
I’m from Traverse City, Michigan… graced by the beauty of Lake Michigan!
Hi Sue,
I live in beautiful Chester County in Southeast Pa. We are also enjoying some lovely crisp, cool weather after a long, hot summer.
My daughter, and dear friend, Rachel introduced me to your books, but I don’t have any of my own…yet. I would love to have the Autumn Book!
We enjoy following your blog. I have learned to ask if she has seen the latest entry before talking about it so I don’t spoil her enjoyment reading what you have shared.
Thank you for encouraging us to cherish our roles as keepers of the home.
Susan – I do not have AUTUMN BOOK! and would love to be the lucky recipient here in Detroit, MI .
It was 38* Sunday night here in northern Michigan…there is definitely a fall look in the sky and in the air…little changes here and there in the color of the leaves…a bit of red…a hint of yellow…leaves on the ground rustle now and then…our 106 year old garage is almost empty of all of it’s treasures…one more trip to our storage garage should complete that job so demoliton can begin early next week…your book looks luscious, Susan…can’t wait for it to get to my nearest bookstore…keep on keeping on…xoxo…
A transplant to Eastern Pennsylvania from the Midwest (Ohio). A nice offer from you for one of your books, thank you. Keep up the humor with your kitchen remodel, it will be worth it in the end.
Once again you have taken me home (away from my job) and I feel refreshed again with your beautiful home and family. When I count the years until I can retire I say, “With Susan here with me, I CAN do it!” Thanks for reaching out to us and sharing your warmth and art! Though I do have the Autumn book, to have one that you personally handled and sent from your home, it would be a treasure to have and open every autumn again. Anne from Bradford, PA
Good morning from Longmont, Colorado…where the air is crisp and cool, and Fall is here! I am on my second cup of coffee, Best Boy ( my devoted black Labbie) at my feet, and reading your delightful post. I know all of us feel like we are chatting with a dear, kindred spirit of a friend, when reading your blog.
I enjoyed you posts about your England trip so much, and look forward with gleeful anticipation for your book. Keep the music playing, Susan, we love it!
Good morning from Weedsport, New York. We are upstate in the heart of the beautiful Finger Lakes. It is a glorious morning with cool temperatures and sunny sky’s. You are such an inspiration to those of us who just dabble in creativity. I am in awe of what you can do and do so beautifully. Thank you for sharing all of it.
I always knew you were a kindred spirit, but when I saw you choose an angel card today, as I do, I had proof positive. I look forward to each of your posts. It started with Willard coming in the mail to me and now I read the emails from you. Can’t wait for the English Diary, I have so many of your books and they comfort me with your pictures and words. “A house without books is like a body without a soul”…cicero. Words, your words and images and quotes warm my heart. Thank you. Freeport, Maine
In Indiana, it is getting a little cooler, but I’m not see much of a season change, yet. We’ll be in Southern Maine in early October, and I hope the fall colors are still in evidence.
My all black cat, Max, just loves reading about the adventures of Jack and he thinks Girl is very pretty. We live in east central Illinois right on the Indiana border. Love your blog. It cheers me and makes me want to create. Thanks Susan. You are very much appreciated.
Cooler weather arrived here in Columbus Ga too! (Columbus is along the river that borders Alabama, which is in Central time, so when it’s getting dark here at 8 we like to look over there and say “It’s getting dark over there at 7!”)
Would love to win the book, but win or not, I love reading your blog, looking forward to the Diary book when it comes out!
Sandy
what does your comment is awaiting moderation mean? Oh, no. I’m new to this.
It just means that I have to approve the comments (so spam doesn’t get in) and that means everything waits when I go for a walk — just got home and approving now!
Hello – I’m so happy to see your pictures this morning! I love the picture of your cats – adorable! I’m so excited about the wonderful book you’re working on – I can’t wait. It feels like fall in Fairfield County, Connecticut too – I may go for a nice stroll at the beach today. Don’t work too hard. Martha N.
Hi Susan,
I love the pictures and comments this time. It looks like the English Book is coming along nicely and it makes me anxious for it to be done. Your kitchen is getting done too, yes it will get done and you will love it. Fresh paint and redone floor and everything sparkling clean; makes me want to redo mine. The weather is cooler and more fall like in Ohio right now and I love it. Your Autumn book is beautiful! I acquired one from e-bay just this year and it was hard to find one in good shape but this one is like new. It’s so generous of you to put one up for give-away; I hope whoever gets it will cherish it as there is so much good stuff in it.
Jarrettsville, Maryland…I love your blog and the pictures of The Vineyard.