I know, Groundhog Day isn’t until February 2, but it started early for me. In fact, this is me. That is what has happened; I am forming to chair shape. And that is my fork. Sometimes I use it, and sometimes I just use my hands. We need sophisticated musica for this one!
“What if there is no tomorrow? There wasn’t one today.” From the movie Groundhog Day, which, if you haven’t seen it, you should RUN to get it; it’s wonderful.
Today I thought I would write about what it’s like to be a writer deep in the throes of putting together a book. They always say “write what you know,” and for sure, right now, this is what I know. Most people think that being a writer or an artist is a romantic way to live. You get to work at home; you get to take a blank piece of paper and give it words and color and change it completely so it’s not even just a piece of paper anymore, and you get to make it all up. Like 
permanently dreaming, or like playing house as a way of life. And it IS a lovely thing to do, a wonderful thing to do. Every morning I come down the stairs, somewhere between three and four o’clock in the morning. I wake up, excited, thinking, “Oh boy, I’m painting Beatrix Potter’s clogs today,” or, “Oh boy, I get to paint a bunny today,” or whatever it is that day. Morning is when I seem to have the easiest time concentrating. Because figuring out what I’m actually going to put on that blank piece of paper requires that I 
think, and make decisions. I don’t mind the thinking, but I could live without the decision-making. What shall I paint for a border? Does it look good enough? Does it make sense? Is it too little? Too much? Will the girls (that’s you!) like it? I never know for sure. I really don’t. How could I? I rely on faith. And try to write what I want to read. So down the stairs I come, with two little furry creatures leading the way. And, very often, the happy gene has kicked in and I’m singing on the stairs. Which brings me to this quote… 
Because even I can see that it’s a little pathological to sing on the stairs at 3 am. I’m glad Joe doesn’t like the morning the way I do; I enjoy having all the quiet to myself. Of the two of us, Joe is definitely the normal one. I take him his tea around 7 am and then spend about a half hour shooting the rubber band for Jack so he can leap over Joe and off the bed to chase it and bring it back to me. Girl watches calmly from her blankie in a chair. It’s family time. 🙂 (although I’ve been asked by Joe to quit referring to him as Jack’s Dad!). Until 7, I have the house to myself; it’s me, the kitties, the hum of the furnace, and the scratch of my pen and this — the morning view at dawn.
I make myself a big cup of tea with honey and half and half; I cut up an apple and put it on a plate; I wrap myself in a shawl; I put one pair of clogs in front of the furnace 
vent to warm, and later, if my feet get cold, I change shoes and leave the cold ones to warm up. And then I head to my studio, through the dark living room, counting my blessings as I go because it’s so quiet and nice, where I write and paint all day. When Joe gets up, we put on a mountain of clothes, and go for a walk, as long as it is at least 32° and the ground is not icy. We come home, he makes a fire, he cooks us breakfast. I don’t know what I would do without him… he is making me Punxsutawney Pudding for tonight’s dinner (recipe to follow!). I go to my studio — then I blink, and suddenly, the sun has gone down, and another day is gone. Because writing is like playing racquetball. When you play racquetball you don’t think about anything else. You are too busy thinking about the game. Time goes by in a flash. And then it’s bedtime. In between, for entertainment, I have this:
I have no idea how it works for other authors, but for me, writing a book requires a kind of concentration that, it becomes more and more clear, I actually don’t even have. So I have to force it out of myself, it’s in there, but it’s down deep; if I was a country, it would be in another country, that’s how deep it is. I can lose that concentration if I go away from it for any time at all, even out to dinner. When I come back, I often find that I no longer know how to write a book, I can’t think of anything to say, I have to start over; I’m grateful for William Wordsworth’s words …
Aha! Now I remember. Of course, I can do that! Then I sit in my chair and wait until it all comes back to me; sometimes it takes as long as a week before my heart is once 
again breathing out loud; trips to the refrigerator provide the needed exercise while I wait. So, I’m careful and I try not to go anywhere. Hence, Groundhog Day. Tomorrow will be the same as today, because that’s how it was yesterday. Up, sing, tea, shoes, shawl, apple (for wild and crazy variation, maybe English muffin), paint, Joe/tea, Jack/rubber band, Girl/Kiss, eat, walk, paint, sleep. It doesn’t make for much of an exciting blog life, but at the end, a reward of a fat, cute little book and a long trip across country, the slow way, hopefully to meet many of you! The other thing is, sometimes (and this requires a stretch but it’s worth it) I feel like Diane Keaton in the movie Something’s Got to Give … remember, she’s a writer, and she’s in her bedroom writing, crying most of the time because Jack Nicolson is breaking her heart; it’s not the crying part for me, but the writing part! She makes it look so cute!
OK, back to work, but now, to celebrate my groundhog life, here’s a delicious little winter-night dinner I have no doubt at all that you will love! Makes the kitchen smell like heaven tastes just delicious. Defraptious as my mom would say.
I’m on page 157 of A Fine Romance! Could someone please say, You go girl?” xoxo Uh oh, I just noticed — the two cups of pineapple juice that goes into the Pineapple Spareribs is missing on the recipe! That groundhog probably drank it! You just mix it in with the rest of the ingredients! Sorry!
YOU GO GIRL!!!! We can’t wait for your book to come out!!!! Stay the course!!!! Love, Kim D. Dublin, OH
I can already tell this is going to be good! Thank you Kim!
You go girl!!!
I agree!
You go girl!!!!! 157 pages already! You are working at warp speed! We are all so excited and cannot wait for it to be published! It’s just about the most fun thing to “wait” for that I can think of! Don’t wear yourself out, we need you!
do the pineapple ribs not have pineapple in them or am I overlooking? Sound delish either way!
LOL- nevermind!
🙂
No blogging, keep writing – as we are soo looking forward to the book! Hugs and kisses to Jack’s dad for cooking for you so you can your energy up and keep writing. That Joe of yours is a keeper aye!
Lots of love Leanne NZ
I just read your comment to him Leanne, he loved it!
YOU GO GIRL!!! 😉 We are all eager to see this wonderful book!! They are all wonderful. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful!! :))))
Now…get to work!
:-)!
Hi Susan,
High Five on that book. way to go!!! You have come a long way, and I’m so happy you are on page , what was it 170? WOW!!! You really are somthing and I love everything you do. Well what I know of anyway, I’d have to ask Joe. So keep up the GOOD work. I have your calendar hung up for the year. Hey maybe next year’s calender could be an England one.
Nancy Jo
I was thinking about that!
Charming idea! I would like that!
Good idea, Nancy Jo! An England calendar! Love it! Keep on thinking about that, Susan!
Linda
It sounds like a lot of hard but fun work and dedication, can’t wait until its release! What time do you get to bed? Wish I could get by on just a few hours sleep, so much would be accomplished!
I go to bed between 8 and 9. So I usually get 6 or 7 hours sleep.
Keep up the good work, we will be waiting with arms open wide,,,,
Thanks for these recipes, this is going to be dinner Sat night.
As pooh would say it is a blustery day! stay warm,
Thanks for the peek into your morning routine and writing process. I think it will give us all an even greater appreciation for your creativity!
Hi Susan,
I know you’re writing a cookbook called “Pancakes” and I am wondering what the title of your England trip book is going to be? I will be looking for them in my favorite bookstore/coffee shop. Thank you for your blog which I so enjoy.
—-<—-<-@ Randi
Pancakes will come after this book — which is called A Fine Romance and is the diary of our trip through the English countryside.
Oh thank you! I just love everything that is you. You are such a darling! I have all your books which I cherish. You just make me happy! —<–@
How did I get so lucky? That’s what I want to know . . . xoxo
This reminds me very much of Twila Tharp’s ‘The Creative Habit’. She says that brilliance doesn’t come pouring out or hit someone like a lightening bolt but that it takes daily, regular work to bring the brilliance to life. Of course, a good bit of talent doesn’t hurt!
I’m looking forward to the new book, but am patient because I know that you are taking your time to make it wonderful. 🙂
Just a note to say that we are all behind you every step of the way… you go girl!!
Go, go, go…
I’m in Fairhope, Alabama right now – a writer’s paradise! Many famous writers (and artists) live here! Some even hang out in the local bookstore:-). As I’m currently in the process of retiring after 39 years of teaching (elementary and college), it is inspirational! I’ve always wanted to be a writer but the only thing I’ve ever written and published was my dissertation! That gives me hope as it was qualitative and written as a narrative!! However, YOU give me the courage to quit phase one of my life and go after phase two:-). Thank you, Susan!
May your new book succeed beyond your wildest dreams!! N
Hello Fairhope, AL….I’m in Thomasville, Al….I love her blog also…:)
Susan, congratulations on your upcoming retirement! Anyone who has lasted for 39 years in the teaching field most definitely has the fortitude to be a success at another career. Be bold and grab phase two by the horns!! Best wishes to you!
I “ditto” what Holly said!
Thank you so much for the encouraging words! You will never know how much they are appreciated:-)
Makes me happy to think so Susan!
SUSAN….SUSAN…..SUSAN……SUSAN……clap, clap, clap, clap. SUSAN….SUSAN…..SUSAN…..SUSAN….clap, clap, clap, clap.
You’re almost there! Keep going, girl! You’re doin’ GRRRRREAAAAAT!!!!
I have to run now….I’ll pop back in later tonight.
Yay!!!
We are SOOO looking forwards to this book. I watched Miss Potter on tv the other night and thought of you 🙂 You are opening my eyes afresh to the Englishness that I take for granted (being native). A huge hug of thanks, Susan.
I’m glad to hear that because you are a DARLING people. xoxo
Keep on writing…..we can’t wait to make that wonderful trip come alive on the pages of the book. I love your blogs – look forward to seeing a new one pop up, but the book must be magical and inspiring and everything we expect from a Susan Branch book!!! We are patiently waiting.
Dear Sue,
When I received your first book in 1989, I read it from cover to cover…as I have collected all your books, I take them out and read them as the seasons pass. I always find something new I missed (or didn’t remember) and delight in reading every single corner of every single page! I can’t wait for this new book to come out. I too, love all things English as I was born in England.
Thank you again, for sharing your wonderful life with us.
xo Tracy
Thank you so much Tracy!
Sounds like a wonderful way to spend your days! Love Groundhog Day. Some people in my family even say I look like Andie McDowell! Can’t wait for the new book!
If you’re going to look like someone, I think Andie McDowell is a pretty good choice! 🙂
You go girl!! You’re almost finished! 🙂
You GO Girl! Love the way you’ve let us know about your creative process.
You Go Girl!!!! Want a perfect name for your book. Love! Love! Love! Can’t wait for it to come out. Looking forward to your book signing in SLO.Thanks for sharing with us girlfriends, your day as a writer. Not as glamorious as we may have thought. It’s a good life and so perfect for you, because we reep the rewards with all your wonderful books and your wise wisdom you share with us all. Thank you! It’s just amazing how you can think that early in the morning. I’m up and getting ready for work at 5:15 a.m. and that’s to early.
I look forward to your blogs and wonder, what next will Susan write about. I enjoy looking at all the pictures you take and of course the kitties. I want to wish you and Joe a very happy, healthy and prosperious New Year for 2013.
With love,
Gail form California
Thank you so much Gail! Love it when you say love love love — aren’t those the best three words in a row?!
Susan,
Excuse me, but what is “defraptious” mean? Tried to look in the American Heritage dictionary, but it was not there. I looked in Webster’s Dictionary doesn’t have it either. If it is a made up word, which I believe it is, what does it mean? It must be delicious or you wouldn’t have shared the recipe with us. So I will give it a try… I listed to your music for the ground hog day entry but found the Groundhog day-Pennsylvania Polka was what I needed to listen to. It made your blog even more fun!!!… You are so creative and fun…thanks for sharing today with us. (Loved the photo of Jack, I wouldn’t be able to get anything done, because I’d want to play with him all day & cuddle for a nap.) Does Jack cuddle? I know he plays fetch…but does he cuddle too?
Our family makes up words, and that’s one of them — it just means delicious. Jack jumps up high to rub against me; we look outside the window together, heads touching, at the birds or other cats walking by, and he will bend his head into mine, to rub it against me, but I would not call him cuddly. He’s very busy, or sleeping on a pillow next to me when I work, but not cuddly the way I would think of it.
We make up words, too, but even more far-fetched. Eggalator is an escalator, hamegraver is a hamburger, etc., etc. Then we also throw in Norwegian or Swedish words, too–like “I’m so tret” (rhymes with “threat”–means tired), etc. “Yi elska day” (that is phonetically) means “I love you”. We are silly sometimes but we have fun being so… 🙂
My Mom makes up words, too. One year, we made her a dictionary for Christmas, with all the crazy words and phrases that she has ever used, complete with illustrations by my brother. The only problem is that we need a 2nd edition, a 3rd edition, etc.! The funny things never stop coming out of her mouth!!
Glad you added the last couple of sentences as I was just about ready to write, “And WHY do you call them Pineapple Ribs”? They sound really good–think I’ll pick up some country style ribs and try the recipe this weekend…Thank you for more cooking inspiration, once again…Well, “all work and no play makes Jill a dull boy”…or something like that, right? (didn’t use “Jack” as I knew Jack wouldn’t like it!) (and I had to smile at your comment about Joe asking you to not refer to him as Jack’s Dad–we have had that discussion here regarding the schnauzers’ “Dad”…) But I’m sure that some days you just need a break from writing and painting to “recharge”…sometimes working at home is a mixed blessing, I know from 15 years of it. You must admit that you can’t beat the dress code, though, but sometimes a person can be their worst “boss” to themselves! And there is nobody to tell you that you can take a day off or a long lunch hour or leave early that day…which, again, can be a mixed blessing. Well, just know that we are all looking forward to the book and hopefully seeing you as you do book signings across the States… Have a good weekend! 🙂
Thanks Pat! You’ll love those ribs!
You Go Girl! Hug yourself, give your back a pat. You are doing a marvelous job! If we girlfriends have to wait a bit longer for that book, it will be totally worth it. For those girlfriends in a hurry to read it, cool your jets. You darn well know as soon as we read this book we will be clamoring for Susan to take another trip and write another book! The joy of Anticipation is something our “gotta have it now” society has lost—we now think it is “anxiety.” So, dearest Susan, what you have accomplished this far is mighty, beautiful and inspiring. That we get to accompany you on this journey of writing is yet another gift you have given. You are the BEST!
I will ask you all to read it, only one page a day! 🙂
I second that! you go girl!!!
You go girl!
Can’t even imagine the amount of concentration needed for the task you’ve taken on. I can’t even complete normal things around the house without forgetting. You put so much into each page…it must takes uncountable hours.
Yep … YOU GO GIRL! But I have to say … I can’t believe that you get up at 3 a.m. Ugghhhh … that is SO early! What time do you go to bed at night? Can’t wait until I can buy a copy of A Fine Romance!
I go to be around 8 .. or 9. I know, it’s early, but if you want to play, you must pay.
I relate so well to your Groundhog Day routine! Remember Sue, your Fan Club is cheering, with pom-poms in hand: “You-Go-Girl-You-Go-Girl”!
“By perseverance, the snail reached the ark.” ~C H Spurgeon ;>)
Hugs for a Happy Weekend!
Bunny
Poor little snail… 🙂
The Ducks loved it!
You’re bad. xoxo
Your Joe sounds like a treasure. Can’t wait to try the pudding recipe. Can’t wait for the new book. Clogs by the stove is a good idea. When my son was a toddler, nearly 30 years ago, I would hang his little blanket sleeper next to the wood stove while I bathed him, then tuck him in, all warm and toasty. Sigh…
Sounds like a perfect day to me! And I think Joe should start a blog too…he could give inspiration to our boys! (Although I have a pretty good “joe” myself…named Scott. He loves to do laundry, vacuum and makes the bed every day!) Keep up the good work Susan-and it kind of feels like a pregnancy hearing all about the book as it goes along, except at the end you will get to sleep more and not less!!!
I have always thought it was like a pregnancy. In this world of instant gratification, there are some things that just can’t go that way!
Well Susan I just have to say,
You made me laugh out loud today!
Girl without snow…
You better go, go, go!
Cause you have a show…
To paint [in your house with a Joe!]
Oh boy…you’d better keep writing, cause I sure can’t!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Happy January Susan!
LOL!! xoxo
YOU GO GIRL! lol
I’d believe anything of that groundhog… he is a suspicious looking character 😉
I can’t wait for the fat little book 🙂
I was completely engrossed in your blog this afternoon. I kept reading and scrolled down and there is Jack looking upside down at me…I just laughed out loud!! He is so cute and entertaining.
hello, good afternoon susan and girlfriends. just got up from a nap with the kitties and i feel alot better now. you just keep on going girl, can’t wait for the new book to come out. as for me off to go thaw out the hoses and see if i can’t get water to wash out the water tubs and the duckie pond. hopefully we have finally stopped that darned varmint from killing my chickens and ducks. hopefully they can all settle down and get back to normal after over a month and a half of terror with this varmint. and hopefully i can replace the losses and this spring see lots of nests full with baby peeps and ducklings as i do plan to get 2 females for the 2 male ducks and hopefully by spring or early summer we will have lots of new barnyard babies about. have a great day and a great weekend everyone. hugs…… 🙂
Hi Pat~~~ You never said what the “varmint” was I don’t think. Your poor ducks and chickens!! And poor you guys having to spend all that time trying to get rid of it. Sounds as though you didn’t get much sleep for a bit.
I love reading your comments. Always try to visualize where your farm is located. We go through Cave Junction whenever we go up to WA to see the kids. Actually, we stop to have some lunch each trip. Always would go to “Pats”, I believe that was the name of the cafe on the right hand side. It’s closed now…. has been for the last few years. You sound as busy with your farm as Susan is with her book 🙂
Til next time~~~
Carol
You Go Girl!!! I’ll just sit back and relax ’till your books come out. Actually, I’ll be trying to figure out how to install my new GPS system in my car…. a day of frustration is ahead of me but as they say “it’s the journey, not the destination” — who said that? Definitely someone living before current digital technology came along….but I WILL get it installed and use it later this month to get to the Road to California Quilt show — YAY!!! And later this year to your booksigning in SLO — bigger YAY!!!!
Wishing you good luck Marianne! You are brave to try!
Susan,
Keep up the good work! We are all cheering for you. Can’t wait to see the finished product. Your comments hit home with me. When I’m scrapbooking seriously, I feel alot like what you described (only on a much smaller scale – I’m not doing it for a living). Sometimes being creative is hard work.
Jan
It’s true, not matter if it’s knitting or cooking or quilting, we are making something that didn’t exist before.
You Go Girl!! xoxo
Love this post! – I’m not a writer but I sure get hung up on other things when I’m supposed to be concentrating. Oh, was that a little bird that flew by my window? I wonder what kind…
I laughed out loud when I scrolled to the last picture! I love that Jack!
Can’t wait for A Fine Romance!
♥Deb♥
That’s me too, any little thing, and I’m gone.
Oh, dear. How will you amend and fix the omission on the page of art? It’s for the manuscript, yes? Certainly you don’t want to recreate the entire page, since you create in the analog manner. Or some combination of analog and digital, at least after the initial creating. But there’s the matter of your handwritten script. Pretty tough to duplicate that aspect digitally.
Maybe you could write a post and share the process if you have the time. Photos, too. I think your readers would find it interesting. I know I would.
The book is shaping up beautifully. You have every right to be pleased. Thank you for sharing. You’re most generous with your time, which at this point must be precious to you.
I’m not sure if it was there and just “dropped out” or if I forgot to put it in. But if it’s the latter, since we have computers, I can write it in my handwriting and just pop it onto the art. It’s art I did sometime back, not really for the book I’m working on now. I already had it up on the blog before I noticed the pineapple juice was missing!
Of course, makes sense. Write the script, scan it, digitally cut out the little element of handwriting, and paste it into the other digitized doc in its proper spot.
Et voila! A bit of magical manipulation.
The illustration is so cute, too. Thanks for your reply.
There’s also a word “bowl” where it should read “boil” early in the text — sorry to point it out but thought you would want to fix that as well. I do NOT see how y ou can do what you do to create the books — I would be in an asylum very quickly if I tried to do it — so much time — effort — LOVE in every stroke of pen and brush! I DO play with paints — I DO love to do lettering — and for many years I made many items for the teachers with whom I worked — bulletin board art and worksheet art and posters — and sometimes I messed it up and had to find a “fix” — but even so — I’ would never attempt the work you do! GO GIRL!!! Cannot wait to acquire the new books when they appear.
How you can concentrate with such adorable antics going on at the bird feeder I don’t know. 🙂 We all are cheering you on to the finish line on this book. We will LOVE anything you draw and write about so don’t stress over any bit of it. Just go with the flow & enjoy it all. I love both movies you mentioned. We, as in my hubby and I, are hooked on the Murder She Wrote Series and I love the Jessica Fletcher character as she is a strong, caring, interesting woman who is a Murder Mystery Writer often trying to finish a novel on time then going off on a book tour to promote her books.. kind of reminds me of you… Except she usually stumbles on a new murder to solve along the way, so you can skip that part. :)) Tell Joe we thank him for being so patient with you being home bound & in your own world right now. At least Winter is a good time for doing this. YOU GO GIRL!!
Thank you Cris!
Hi Susan,
Yes, You GO Girl!!!!! Such a blessing to hear about your writing routine and then how you bless others with your wonderful work!!!!Keep going and we anxiously wait for the book.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!. Be strengthened and so thankful that in the midst of writing you share with us on your Blog also.
Hugs, Hugs,
Irene
I felt that prayer and loved it, thank you Irene!
Creativity is hard work! You go girl! I’m sure all the girlfriends are anxious to delve into the pages and memories you will be sharing with us on our vicarious journey to England. Thank you for letting us share your day. -r-
OHHHHHHH MYYYYY GOODNESS ! You are going girl!!!!!! I meant to leave a comment on your last blog today and you beat me to it with a new one ! You are writing a book and a blog, one wants to know how you do it and you just answered me here, with a lot of determination, love, enthusiasm, and Ground Hog Day ! I am making my wish list and dream list and having more funny than a Barrel of Monkeys. Finding my little joys everyday even though this menopause thing is an annoyance!!!!! You my Dear fill me with so much joy. I just want to do the same for you so I have lovely prayers for you and you will finish this book soon and we will love and cherish it all the days after! No matter the decisions you make they will be the right ones because you do it with LOVE! Don’t forget the special treat this Sunday night all cozy in our loving homes watching DOWNTON ABBEY !!!!! Lots of Love, hugs and kisses, Wendy Louise
I meant FUN not funny
Can. not. wait. ! 🙂
Downton Abbey! Can’t wait. Next to reading your blogs, Susan, I look forward to Downton Abbey. I can plan to watch TV but your lovely blogs are a surprise when they arrive in my email. What a treat! I was reading out loud today’s message to my daughter who was visiting with her three little boys…all under 6 years old. You always make my day. So much fun! Happy January to both you and Joe.
Happy January Danella! To you and all those little kidlets!
Did you say a long trip across the country…the slow way? 🙂 I hope you will make a stop in Oklahoma! We are anxiously awaiting the debut of “A Fine Romance!” Keep writing and painting and drinking tea and flipping rubber bands for Jack to maintain your motivation… ♥
Dear Susan, I think writers are very brave. Keep up the good work! I’m looking forward to my ‘Susan Branch’ collection getting bigger. Best Wishes,
xoxo Susan.
You have us all so ready for this little fat book!! I am soooo proud of you, fellow lack of concentration cause it’s in another country, friend;)
LoVED the musica…and ready for my new/old gas stove to have its “lights” lit so I can try that mouth-watering recipe for ribs…
I was up at 3:50 this morning…researching and sketching Champion English Pea flowers for my little children’s book for spring. I took puppy back to bed at 5:00, when husband awoke…I was encroaching on his alone time;) But then I get the sunroom all to myself when he heads to work. Coffee, musica, and my table, where I can look out and greet the birds popping by and squirrels doing what only squirrels can do…
Somethings gotta give…favorite line…”You smell so good”….”It’s just soap”…I want that soap! Why won’t they tell us what it is? Surely it’s lavender with a bit of patchouli…What do you think?
Christie
P.S. I love Beatrix’s clogs…can’t wait:)
I’m pretty sure it’s Ivory! 🙂 Maybe with a little lavender!
Love it!!
Grandson just ran in and saw Jack’s picture…he tapped the screen and said, “I wanna watch that video” He loves watching that kitty boy;)
I don’t want to put extra pressure on you – but truthfully – you are my hero.
I changed my life because I was so inspired that you could change yours. I left my job, moved to a new place and decided to make art my full time occupation. That wasn’t very long ago and of course, it isn’t easy, but I am really happy I did it. I’m also married to a great guy and have wonderful furry buddies (2 black labs) that give me lots of support and love. I want you to know how much it means to me when you not only share your amazingly positive outlook, your joys and successes, and so many details of your life – but your struggles as well! It makes me feel as if there is hope for me – I just might make it after all!
So there you have it – true confessions!
There is no doubt whatsoever in my mind that you will/are creating a book that WE will all LOVE! How could you not with all the love you generate on this planet?
Oh Karen, that is so nice. I had so many questions when I first started, and it was so hard to find answers, it makes me feel good to say, this is how it works for me. Congratulations on your brave self Karen. It’s hard that’s for sure, but if you want something, that’s how you get it.
Karen, I want to congratulate you for making that life change! I admire you! And I predict you will be a great success…blessings, sandy 🙂
Karen, You go girl!! How brave & exciting for you. I’m hoping one day to do the same myself. This year, to launch my blog, which will have my art, thereby accomplishing two things – creating art and creating my blog. Yikes, I said it!! Good luck, know you’ll do smashingly well. Kudos!!
Best,
Jeanette
Wow,Karen…can I just add another ” you go girl” in here for you too? That’s amazing…
WOW – Thanks everybody!
Allez! Allez! Susan, you are the bee’s knees. Knowing something of the writing process makes A Fine Romance even more special. I have loved every one of your books, cover to cover, and somehow feel this one will be the best of all, perhaps because it’s a memoir of a fantasy trip that we all got to share with you. Happy quiet mornings and beautiful days to you and yours.
Thank you Rosanne!
You go girl! Girrrrrrl power! (that was for Girl Kittie) Wonder if you are considering putting all the little videos on a DVD included with the book?
I will happily pay more for that!
Sure do wish you were coming to the Philadelphia International Flower Show for your take on English Gardens. March 1st thru 9 (or 10?)
One can dream…
Marcia in Sewell, NJ
Wouldn’t a flower show be wonderful in March…but I think I’ll be just doing the last little bits for the book at that time, so maybe next year!
but but but the theme is “Brilliant!” all about english gardens! sure would love to see you there…
So funny…I read the recipe and then kept looking for the pineapple in it. Then I finished your blog and found it! Yummy. I’m doing marathon watching of season 2 Downtom Abbey tonight so I’ll be ready for Sunday season 3! Your book will be icing on the cake of my English experience! Can’t wait! You go girl!
With the holidays behind us and wintry weather outdoors, this is perfect weather to be hunkered down inside, working on your book. (I’m amazed that you have any spare time to post on your blog — and each one so engaging. That happy gene is a rare one!) You inspire us all and I hope you can feel our energy towards you as well. And so, the adventure continues . . . !
You are awesome! You Go Girl!!
You always talk about my favorite movies!! Love it. I’m sure you look every bit as cute as Diane Keaton in Somethings Gotta Give. Wasn’t her crying hysterical! And that Jack, (the actor~ not kitty lol) oh my gosh we laugh so hard at that movie! We love Groundhog Day too! Watch it every Feb. 2, or there about. I’m glad you’re living your own groundhog day for awhile Susan, and enjoying it! We know there’s a fabulous new book to come. Ahhh. Can’t wait! And one last comment…..I have a new little grandson due on Feb. 2. This will be our best groundhog day ever! Oh! promise, last comment. Your groundhog is Adorable! Please put him in a book somewhere! or is he?
He isn’t yet … Congratulations on your new baby to come!
What a great way to explain the process of writing. I like the way you think.
You are very good at drawing and painting groundhogs!
LOL, it’s my first!
YOU GO GIRL!!!! Nothing in this post dispels my idea that being a writer is romantic. Your whole life is so romantic to me, at least what we know of it. I’m lucky to have a good husband who makes me breakfast, and sometimes dinner too. And does laundry and vacuums….. Makes us the luckiest girls in the world I think. You mentioned traveling cross country when the book is done. I hope you stop in Denver for a book signing. I’m 2 hours away, but would gladly make the trip for the pleasure of meeting someone I admire so much. Just hope I wouldn’t embarrass myself with gushing :o)
You wouldn’t! I hope we’ll be able to go everywhere, it just depends on what bookstores say Yes.!
This is such exciting news! We’ll be anxiously awaiting the announcement of the stops you’ll be making to do book signings, and if at all possible I’ll attend one. I’ll try to keep my gushing to a minimum, too, I promise!
Please try to come to Plano, TX, I will have to play hooky from work!
I feel certain The Tattered Cover would love to host you! It is a wonderful independent bookstore in Denver. The Boulder Bookstore is another idea. It’s another independent on the Boulder mall. Lastly, look into Page and Palette in Fairhope, Alabama. All are wonderful and unique; just like you!!:-)
Wrote them all down, thank you Susan!
Susan — The Tattered Cover is our very favorite bookstore EVER!!! When we lived in Denver, we would be there at least once a week. We missed it greatly when we moved back to California — lucky you to have such a great asset in Denver!
You go girl!!!!! Thank you for giving me the idea of a new tradition with the family…that being Ground Hog Day! (i adored the movie.) After reading your blog, I immediately invited my daughter and her family over to partake in the recipes you shared with us. Susan, thank you so much for sharing your morning spirit with us. For some reason, morning has always been a particularly hard time for me and I am going to try to start some of your wonderful habits to make it a little cheerier for myself. Thank you. Love, Lisa
Mmmm, how fun, a Groundhog Day Party, and then you won’t even care if he sees his shadow! 🙂
Sometimes Life is simply bursting with goodness, it’s almost hard to believe it’s Real !! You, dear Susan, are one of those “goodnesses” that fill my heart. Blessings to all in 2013 and hoping for peace throughout the world.
Hi Susan, I will add my “YOU GO GIRL” too!… love hearing about your daily routine… especially flipping the rubber band across Jack’s “dad” so he can retrieve it… I think Joe secretly likes being called Jack’s dad!… thanks for the recipe, it sounds delish!… I have had a nasty cold since right after Christmas and have been reading your books to cheer me up!… nice to lay in bed with a cup of tea and “visit” with you… you are so wise… do you have a sure fire remedy for a cold???… (today is day ten)… sooo excited for your book!… I hope you come where I live, just outside Salt Lake City about ten miles… I will be the first one in line to get my copy signed! much love to you… Julie Marie PS I won’t leave you or the kitties any kisses today… wouldn’t want you to catch my cold…
I just do what my mom did, Vicks (of course!), I put cotton in my ears (to keep them warm), I tie a sock around my neck (that’s what my mom did, and for me it works), then, chicken soup, and a cup of hot water, juice of one lemon, spoon of sugar, and a little bit of Jack Daniels. If you feel like it . . . Get well soon Julie!
Thank you Susan… you reminded me of when my daddy used to make me something to drink when I was a little girl and got sick that sounds kinda like what you recommend… I think he called it a hot toddy… (just a little whiskey since I was a little girl)… I have never heard to tie a sock around my neck before, but I will do it, it sounds like it will be warm around my sore throat… you are the best!
It’s warm for your throat, and somehow the cotton in the ears works to keep your throat warm too.
Thanks Susan… going to put cotton in my ears now too, nite nite!
First the Vicks then the sock–breathe steam too ….
That’s so great! My mom used to pin a sock around my neck too when I was sick!!!
I knew I couldn’t be the only one! Isn’t it funny they used pins?
Mine was a baby diaper pin!!!
Why????
Linda
why? Probably because it was what they had … Expert diaper pin manipulators!
My Mom pinned the fresh out-of-the-oven sock around my neck too. But, our beverage was warm vinegar water to gargle with… Uck! She was the most wonderful nurse to us kids! I wanted to be the same lovey….but, when I heated the socks in the microwave……well, uh…I maybe started them a little bit on fire. But the Vicks…..always perfect!!!
a little bit on fire? 🙂
I truly think the “Jack Daniels” is so you won’t care that you have a cold?? ha
I think you’re right — I usually don’t feel well enough to add jolliness to my lemon-honey water!
So looking forward to your new book! I love Groundhog Day and Somethings Gotta Give. Two {destined to be} classics – whenever they’re on TV, I drop whatever I’m doing, so I can watch. Thanks for the great post and wonderful recipes.
thanks,susan for your great art and words from your heart. it is a gift to us! b
You go-go-go girl! Save some pudding for 4 a.m.!
You have my number, a little hot pudding at 4 am would be just the thing!
But wouldn’t chocolate pudding be FAR better at that time of the day, or warm butterscotch, rather than onion/cheese pudding??? 🙂
Eggs and pancakes are good, but I’ve discovered that everything tastes good at dawn! Maybe not anchovies!
Thank you for staying the course so diligently for the rest of us! I love getting up oh so early and creeping into my sewing room to play with fabric and think of the next project or two or three. Its not really like writing but I think in some basic ways the work of creating is the same, a lot of thought and hard work sprinkled with joy!
I do think it is like writing!
YOU GO GIRL!
We’re SO GLAD you have the determination to bring “A Fine Romance” to us! We are all gonna love it………..and we love YOU, too!
How did I get so lucky? xoxo
So many of us live with rituals…and if they involve our creativity, expressions of love, or memorable moments, they keep from becoming ruts. How lovely that YOUR life’s ritual will culminate in something for all of us to treasure!! 😉 Thank you for sharing your thought process, the amazing recipes and another endearing story about your precious Joe. xo
You don’t just GO girl!!!!! You ROCK girl. As does that wonderful guy who shall no longer be referred to as Jack’s <3 <3 <3 !!! As for wondering if the girlfriends will like what you write, draw, paint…..well……I have never seen anything that I have not LOVED. If Susan does it, I know it is wonderful, beautiful, fun 🙂
Seriously, thank you so much for the inside look at your creative process. I had the privilege once of asking a very famous artist if she saw her works finished in her mind before she started them OR did they form in her mind AS she was finishing them. How is it for you Susan?
Thank you for sharing yourself with us!!
Michaelene
With this book, it’s finished in my mind. But the individual pages, aren’t. Those I have to make conform to the vision I have…
OOOOOH!! those little marks( <3) were supposed to come out as hearts. Don't know what happened. Sorry Joe.
Michaelene
I could read between the parenthesis!
Hello Susan, I’ll say it too. You go Girl! I can hardly wait to meet you on your book tour and have A Fine Romance signed by you! Then my husband and I will use it as a guide for our dream trip to England.
On a different note, I so appreciate your musings about writing. I’m an unpublished author of 6 children’s picture books. Something I’ve been working on for the last couple of years. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. Thank you for so much inspiration to keep dreaming and keep at it!
Keep at it, because every one of those books has a lesson for the next one … and that’s how you do it (I think!).
Your writing and all the hard work that goes into it is so appreciated here and I’m sure by all the girlfriends…:) My husband told me to try writing (and make us rich) and it was grueling (the two pages that I wrote). I would jump from first person to second person…heck I think I would put in a third person ..:) so I know you work hard at what you do. So thank you, thank you, thank you and I can’t wait to see the results!!!
LOL! Been there, done that! 🙂
“YOU GO GIRL”!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You are so wonderful for taking the time for this blog. Just keep telling yourself that all this will be worth it in the end when we, the girlfriends, read your book!!!
Love your morning routine! BUT, I wouldn’t be up at that time in the morning. I’m like Joe…. 7:00 for me please. I do get up at 6:30 on the weekdays as I’m out of the house by 7:00 to exercise at Curves.
Well, til next blog!
Carol M
You go girl! 🙂
Oh Susan you are almost finished! Stay steady on the course! A Fine Romance is being born and I can’t wait to see the finished product. Love how you write–you manage to express how we all feel about things. You go girl! Thanks to Joe for his support of our favorite girlfriend! XOXO ♥
YoU Go GiRL!!!! Love this post, you are never boring!!! Can’t wait for your book. Love your calendar, it is up and doing a great job too.
xoRobin❤
Some times these fb things do strange things…just wrote and it went all away…I think
As I said before..from hearing all your fans comments We could stand out on the lawn and every hour on the hour send up encouraging cheers until you have every last page finished.we could form a committee and bring in casseroles every night for dinner. I’d even come in and clean bath rooms…(and I hate that job) love every thing you have ever done..wish I could save these fb blogs
Keep up the good work
Thanks
Pat Beckman…ohio
You make me laugh Pat! I do love the casserole idea though! 🙂
I’d bring casseroles, too, but would stop at the bathrooms as I hate that job too much…guess she will get the job then but maybe I’d be a better cook????? LOL! 🙂 (Personally, I think I’d sacrifice good food to having my bathroom cleaned, hate to admit…) 🙂
You go girl! I have all your books and I just can’t wait for this one to come out. I already know it’s going to be my all-time favorite. And I LOVE the idea of an England calendar for 2014! Also, thanks for the adorable groundhog and recipes.
Great blog i like getting up at that hour also love the quiet Make tea at seven for my hubby also but i am not writing a book keep up the great work can hardly wait to see and own this new book as i went to england last also.
Can’t wait for the book and thanks for the reminder that constancy pays dividends! Just went outside to enjoy a star-filled sky in the GA mountains, and then got to warm my hands by the by the light of your always wonderful words! Sweet dreams to you, Joe and the kitties!
you really DO go girl-firend! tho you are 99% engrossed in your book, thanks for taking the time to look up and give us a word. we would miss you if we did not hear from you every few days! thanks for giving us another glimpse into the life of Susan B.
“success comes in cans. failure comes in can’ts.”
xox, sandy 🙂
mmmm, good quote!
hi, I also wanted to say, please take a little time off, like maybe one or both days on the weekend, as long as it doesn’t interrupt that train of thought you have chugging along. maybe just a short break to stay refreshed. I trust you know best what you need and what your work needs. just taking care of you, girlfriend.
hugs! sandy 🙂
We’re all saying it: “you go girl!!” I ALWAYS love hearing about your writing…your routine…”our” book. Thanks for sharing! Making the recipe for dinner tomorrow!
I just hung your calendar up in my kitchen. I use the old ones as wrapping paper or to decorate packages that go through the mail. Can’t WAIT for this book. Thanks so much for sharing your day with us. 3am is awfully early. . . . 6am is still too early, and I’m chugging coffee by that time. Thank goodness for tasty caffeine!
When my husband gets home, I yell at the kitties “Daddy’s home!” – and sometimes they run down the hall to greet him – and sometimes not. Because they’re cats. Love Jack’s smiley face in your blog!
LOL.because they’re cats!
When you feel like you’re in another country try reading this book by the author of the Mrs. Pollifax novels, A New Kind of Country.
I can’t tell you how deeply this book spoke to me at one point in my life and resonates with me still.
BTW, the Mrs. Pollifax novels are a hoot. Great reading on snowy cold days or hot dry summery days.
Not to be redundant, but please let me add my “You go girl!!” to the pile you’ve already received! We all (may I speak for all us girls) love everything you do, write, paint, decorate, cook……..but more importantly, we love you!!! You give us permission to be ourselves, doing the mundane, everyday sort of things, while realizing how important and fulfilling our homemaking (or heart-making) really is for us. Well, I never said writing was my forte. That was the worst run-on sentence! Oh, well. I could easily stop everything when the kids left. In fact, I did for awhile. But even if you’re alone, you can do it for yourself. I will be moving soon……I thought I’m way to old to begin again, but begin again I shall! So, you go girl! I won’t be far behind you! I may even get another cat!
Here’s that comment Kirsten! I’m finally here! Yes, just 3 or 4 flowers in a vase on a window sill, and you’re home!
Oh my! I laughed so hard when you said you are in perpetual “Ground Hog Day” with your book lol! I knew immediately what you meant. My sister just finished her first draft of a novel she wrote and it was definitely something she FORCED herself to attack on a daily basis. I can’t wait to see your wonderful new book and thank you for the recipe. It looks delish!
You have to want to do it more than you treasure sanity and freedom. 🙂
You go girl!!! My wonderful husband got me a gift certificate to your website and I just bought the Summer Day rug and I just received the desk calendar boy is it great! Also my wonderful daughter got me the 4 cup hearts teapot by Emma Bridgewater for Christmas. I cried it is so wonderful and she had a card put in it “Something to love forever and always” wasn’t that awesome. I just love all the stuff in your store. I also live 24 miles from Punxsutawney, PA I’m telling you Susan yo have to come down to Home and I will show you around, you would love it here. Keep up the writing we need a wonderful new book to cherish. Happy New Year and love to all.
Absolutely awesome!! What a nice gift! And isn’t it darling? Any town named Home has to be good!
Forgive me for asking, but is it really only 1/2 cup of rice in the pudding? Doesn’t seem like enough.
On another note, my daughter was reading the January calendar today and said we had to get a kitty “because Susan Branch said so.” Almost persuaded. I love your Jack!
Almost forgot … you go girl!
It’s just a little bit of filler and texture, not really a rice dish at all, so yes the half cup is right. You should get a kitty. For pure joy if nothing else. Tell your daughter I said hi! 🙂
What if the Hokey Pokey -“Was what it’s all about?”
HAHAHA! You are too funny, Jack!
You go girl (friend) !!! xoxo Ruthie
Susan, your books are treasured gifts and even more so now knowing how it all comes together. I hope to one day get to meet you at one of your signings…..you make me smile, always. xoxo
Eat a couple more ” Puxa- you know” and sparerib meals — you and Phil will be able to wear each others fur…….
LOL. You are so right!
Hi, Susan ~
I was only able to skim the blog earlier and leave you a quick note of encouragement. I just read it top to bottom and I’m smiling from ear to ear! You crack me up! – “Joe is the normal one.” Your sense of humor, especially when you’re talking about yourself, is the thing, I think, that most endears you to me. You are an accomplished artist and author and you have both feet on the ground, not taking yourself too seriously….love/admire that about you!
I especially love the most adorable, chubby groundhog! Would you mind if I use his picture to make a tag? My girlfriend’s birthday happens to be on Groundhog Day and I would attach it to her birthday present (which is usually something I’ve baked).
Sending you a hug and lots of positive energy to keep on going. This is going to be such a wonderful book!
xoxoDebbie
Is it offensive to serve fat groundhogs with baked goods on birthdays? 🙂
He’s so cute in his chubbiness…with the fork….I thought she’d laugh. Maybe I better rethink this…
No, I’m just kidding, I’m sure she’ll love it.
LOL I knew you were! I’ll let you know in February how it went…
Not if the groundhog is baked properly, too! And with potatoes, carrots, and onions on the side… oh dear, am I talking about that cute little near-sighted critter called a groundhog??? 🙂
Losing it … 🙂
🙂
You just write that book any old way you want and I’ll just buy it and love it. Deal? 😉
Deal. You make it so easy!
Oh, Susan, you go,go, go girl; although I can’t imagine anyone “going” more than you! You are amazing. This post brought me back to 1994 when I opened my gift shop and two things I knew for sure was that I wanted to stock your books and Margaret Furlong’s beautiful angel shell ornaments. Well, my 10 year old daughter and I went to the July gift show at the Center at Bedford, MA and who did we meet but BOTH you and Margaret! Amazing. And you and I talked about just what you’ve said in this post, about the creative process and when enough is enough, or when more is needed, and trusting your instincts whether you’re writing a book or setting up shop.I got so much out of that conversation because I was so happy and living my dream but it was still lonely at times and your sharing your experience was so helpful; such a girlfriend kind of thing you’d do!
Here we are, so many years later. I sold the gift shop in 2006, but it’s still going strong and we now own an old New England Inn and Restaurant in the Berkshires called the Morgan House. I was thrilled when you started blogging, and then you took us to England with you and now you’re doing this wonderful book, life is good! You should know you have a little fan club here in Lee and we’re hoping you’ll be coming this way for book signings; we’ll put you and Joe up at my brother and sister-in-laws B&B, Crabtree Cottage, and host an English tea at the Morgan House and you can sign lots of books and meet your Berkshire fans; tempting?!
Keep up the awesome work and thank you for all you share and give to all us girlfriends. Can’t wait for this book!
That sounds rather perfect!
Susan,
I haven’t read all of the comments before mine so don’t know if anyone has
already pointed this out, but in the pudding recipe it reads to “bring water
to bowl”………I have a feeling that you must mean bring water to boil. Am I correct? Just thought you might want to correct that. Sounds like a very delicious winter dinner. Love your blog. Marie W.
Just have to add my ‘You Go, Girl’ to the list! I always let my husband read these posts too and he made me promise not to call Joe ‘Jack’s Dad,’ Lol! I also love the idea of getting up early and enjoying the peace and quiet of a brand new day…
Yea! You have hundreds of girlfriends (& several guy friends too) cheering you on to the finish line! So You Go girl!
When I saw the groundhog I thought that you were going to tell us that this is what you look like after working day after day on the book! LOL! I’m glad to hear that you are keeping your walk in the schedule every day!
Is Joe working on the bookshop bookings? Remind him not to forget the Barnes & Noble in Long Beach – I think I’ve attended two of your book signings there! Have already told my spousal unit that we’ll be traveling to your signing if we need to! Since he was the lone husband shown in the photo that Joe took at the Heart of the Home opening weekend he wasn’t too surprised! 😉 We love that photo BTW!
Have a productive weekend! Twelfth night on Saturday & Three Kings Day on Sunday so undecking of halls will start this weekend! 😉
Go! Go! Go!
You give us such lovely things to look forward to. I’d love to be able to look forward to your book signing at BARNES AND NOBLE IN WARWICK RHODE ISLAND, hint, hint!
I love the title. Did you know that Judi Dench starred with her husband Michael in a Britcom of the same name?
Okay every time I hear the name of your new book I think of the Britcom, A Fine Romance and can hear Judi Dench singing lol!
Yes, please Go Girl!
So looking forward to this book as I plan our 25th anniversary trip to England.
Cheers from Columbus Ohio
YOU GO GIRL!!! I can’t wait for our book! So….keep on keeping on…get up and sing; eat that apple–drink that tea; stay warm and stay on schedule…YOU can do it!! Hugs from Texas!! (to help keep you going!)
Susan, Awesome post!! Fun, funny and sweet at the same time. You are one disciplined girl! We love and admire you for ALL you are doing for us – an amazing, splendid, spectacular, gorgeous adventure awaits us all when THE book comes of the press. Think of all the fingers clamoring for a copy or two of their very own.
Apologies if my writing isn’t as thorough as usual…we lost our sweet, gentle black lab, Jack last Saturday. :(. At 13+ he lived a wonderful, long life – I’m just missing him so much my heart just aches. I know my kindred furry spirits will understand, know time helps. He was the most intuitive, gentle spirit and I was truly blessed he picked me for his Mom when he popped up on our doorstep all those years ago. My two other pups are sad too, missing their brother. The grief always equals the breadth of the love, guess I have a long way to go…
Let’s all hug our furry kids even tighter today…
Love to you and hugs to the kitties.
XooX,
Jeanette
I’m so sorry Jeanette. I have a huge soft spot for labs — their eyes are so expressive, intelligent and loving. I’m so sorry.xoxo
Jeanette~I am feeling your pain…my 14 year old chocolate lab grand~dog Captain went to heaven this past Thanksgiving night…the only thing that makes me smile is thinking of Captain in heaven chasing squirrels, chewing shoes and kissing everybody there…just like he did here…
Poor kids. xoxo
Rae Ann, So sorry form your loss. It’s a gift to remember with a smile. I’m sure he was a treasure and sounds like he had a spunky personality too. I reflect on all the sweet memories, sometimes it’s between the tears – it’s a part of the process…
Hugs to you.
Thank you, Susan. I knew you and the girlfriends would understand. It’s truly the thoughts, prayers and hugs that are carrying us through now and I’m sure for some time to come…love you much!
oh, Jeanette ~
It is so hard, isn’t it? We lost our 15+ beagle, Buddy, over a year ago and not a day goes by that I don’t think of him. The unconditional love that we receive from our furry babies is like nothing else. It will get better, but I think you’re right….time and love will help you heal …..and I’m sure your other babies will be there with hugs and kisses of comfort. Yesterday, just on a whim, while out shopping, George and I stopped into a pet store to see an adorable beagle puppy who was in the window. That was a HUGE step for me! The last time we even walked by a pet store, I cried. Yesterday, I just smiled and enjoyed the sweet memories of Buddy.
Debbie, Thank you! You are so right, their love is like nothing else, which is why they find the most special places in our hearts to nuzzle their noses and leave paw prints all over, forever. I’m sure when your time is right, you’ll have another precious bundle of joy to grace your home. Hugs and love to you!
Hi Susan, a friend turned me onto your blog and I am so happy!!! When we finally go to England we’re going to use your blog posts to plan our itinerary! Thank you for all your wonderful posts–I check in every day. xoxo, Allegra