HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

Just a little Valentine mood MUSICA for some of my very favorite people . . . ♥

Yesterday most of our snow had melted, the grass was green, and I was having little pangs of Spring Fever . . . and today, as the sun began to come up, I looked outside to one of the prettiest snowstorms I’ve seen in a long time.

Just a beautiful day on the island.  My girlfriend Margot called at 6am to say, “You have to go look at the sunrise!”  One look and I burrowed right back into winter . . .

And now, the wind is blowing clumps of snow off roofs and trees and making it look like it’s snowing, but it’s not.

It’s just adding to the romance of an already romantic day…

As does this . . .

It’s the feet I love the most.

I took Joe his breakfast a while ago.  His Valentine’s present.

I made it in a cookie cutter.

Happy Valentine’s Day Girlfriends! I hope you’ve all received your Valentine Willards! Just as you read, we’re having a drawing for a pre-publication copy of my new book A FINE ROMANCE! 

To be entered, just leave a comment (click on the tiny grey word “comments” just under this post). Sometime after the 20th, Vanna, our resident chooser-in-chief, will pick the winning name! When the book comes in, I’ll sign it and send it to the lucky winner. Until then, especially for today, I’m sending you virtual chocolate kisses and red roses and hope (sweetheart or no sweetheart, no one needs a sweetheart to celebrate Valentine’s Day) that your day includes something special just for you. xoxo Make all your Valentine dreams come true no matter what and be your own darling sweetheart!  Love you, THANK YOU!  I’m thrilled about the book, you just have to know … yesterday, I wrote the ending and I made myself cry!  Thank you for joining me on this book-writing adventure! xoxo P.S. Just in case you need it, you can view WILLARD here!

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2,234 Responses to HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

  1. Nancy West says:

    Happy Valentines! I have already placed my order for your new book! A valentines gift to myself (just in case my name isn’t drawn.)

  2. Pat Salada says:

    Susan,

    You are the personification of Valentine’s Day! Reading your blog
    always makes it a better day. Thanks for sharing all the happiness
    you find in life. Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe, the kitties,
    and the birds. Can’t wait for the book!

    Pat S.

  3. judy c in nc says:

    This arm chair-traveler reporting in to be considered for the wonderful opportunity of winning a First Edition, or is it The First Edition? of our magnificent book. My English husband and I so enjoyed our journey to England with you along with all the wonderful things I learned. I am Southern Born and Southern Breed, and to an Englishman I wed for definitely all the right reasons. Just so you don’t feel bad if I do not win, I have also ordered one – got to have this book – know what I mean? Judy c in nc

  4. Oh Vanna–pick me, pick me!!

    Linda from Dallas

  5. Colleen says:

    I can hardly wait to read A Fine Romance! After reading your blog entries about your England trip, I now have the “itch” to see the beautiful gardens of England in person.
    I’ve been a SB fan for a long time—have all your books, scrapbooking materials, calendars, etc. Love it all. My life has been enriched because of you!

    Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe.
    Colleen

  6. Chrissy Thrower says:

    I thought I would cry too, to see the cover of your new book that WE all feel a part of! This is a once in a lifetime event for us all…and you and Joe made it happen.
    Your Girlfriend Party for Valentines Day Idea has inspired my 20 yr old daughter to do just that! I wish you could see the table! Oh, it looks so sweet and pretty! China teacups and plates, my dear mothers embroidered linen table cloth, mismatched flute glasses for the Welch’s Sparkling white, tea sandwiches cut into hearts strawberry cream cheese with a little raspberry, little salads! Oh the table looks sweet! And, you know these kids never do this kind of thing!
    Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe! And Happy Valentine’s Day to all you sweet Girlfriends!XXXXOOOO

  7. Brenda Bartocci says:

    What a lovely read your upcoming book will be. I can’t wait. Happy Valentines Day.

  8. Love your romantic pictures! I’m making a special dinner tonight for my husband- my daughter got engaged last night…lots of love in this house today 🙂 Happy Valentine’s Day to you both xoxo Jacqui

  9. ginger says:

    I would love to win this book. If I don’t, I’ll buy it. Thanks for these posts that come at the best times. Made my husband a valentine card this year. It was a pen and ink of a simple tree. Hidden in the foliage were dozens of hearts. He loved it. Thanks for inspiring me. I’ll never be as good as you, but I love trying.

  10. Lee Ann says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day. I just arrived home from work to find flowers on the porch from my father and am glad that I was able to sit down for a minute to read your blog. I would love to win the book. Off to job number two!

  11. Nellie says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day, Susan and Joe!

    I love, love, love this post! Love that breakfast you made for Joe! What a wonderful idea! Also, love the pictures of the two of you! And – love the snowfall that you have showed us this morning!

    Another thing I love is the idea that my name is in for the drawing of that wonderful book! What excitement!:-)

    That little ball of fur! How adorable! I love that, too!:-)

    Now, I even think I love the 50-degree weather we are having here. No snow or ice to contend with as we head out to a Valentine’s Day treat – dinner out!

    You are doing a most fantastic job, Susan! Every blog is like its own little book.

    xo Nellie

  12. phyllis mullins says:

    And a Happy Valentine’s Day to you both! Since you’ve finished THE BOOK, perhaps you might enjoy 3 that I love (and I’ve pre-ordered A FINE ROMANCE). All by Susan Allen Toth: 1. My Love Affair With England 2. England As You Like It 3 .England For All Seasons
    My late husband and I had several trips to England and these 3 were a big help in planning our tours. I wish I could return but sadly, being a widow and many years old, I’ll just re-read the above and thoroughly enjoy your new one when it arrives at my door.. Thanks for writing it for all of us!

  13. suzanne fischer says:

    You touch my heart with your sensitive observations. As a fellow ex Californian I glory over seasons and feel so lucky that I have you to read and see through your eyes so many of life’s best gifts. suzanne

  14. Iris Shubert says:

    Hello Susan! Sounds like you had a lovely trip, full of memories and inspiration. Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of your beautiful book. Your artwork is always full of romance and whimsy. I love it.

  15. Linda says:

    Thank you for sharing the Joy of a much anticipated accomplishment and celebration ! Happy, Happy Valentines !
    God Bless you !

  16. Congratulations, Susan!
    As I am writing a book myself, I know what hard work and discipline it requires.
    Take a bow!
    Thank you for the cheery words and images you have shared during this cold, gray and snowy winter. I love the beauty of snow, but, even though I am a native New Englander, I am not a fan of winter.
    All the best,
    Heather Lagace

  17. Dana Burton says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day! I love all the pictures of you and Joe….so full of light and love.:) Mr. B surprised me and took off work today. We went to Midway and had a wonderful lunch and looked around in the antique shops and took pictures with my new Nikon (so excited!) of the railroad tracks that run right through the middle of Main Street. The girls came in from school with their decorated Valentine Boxes and dumped them right in the middle of the floor to start reading who they were from to their Dad and I….giggling each time they opened one from a boy. I wish we could just freeze this time with them….so sweet, so innocent. Have a wonderful evening! XO

  18. Dear Susan, I have already pre-ordered 2 copies of your new book, but would love to have an autographed one! My maiden name is HATFIELD. Henry VIII gave Hatfield Court to Anne Boleyn (sp.?), his second wife. Lots of English blood on my father’s side of the family. I have never been there, but it is on my “bucket list”. Thank you for your wonderful blog and the Willard. I have every one of your books and love them. The “Skip and Go Naked” recipe is a staple with us in the summer around the pool. Your creativity knows no bounds!

    Richele Hatfield Duffy

  19. Susan says:

    Blessings to you on this Valentine’s Day~
    I just finished reading my “Willard” and it was a delight! It made me feel like Spring is just around the corner – must’ve been the lambs and greenery 🙂 I am looking forward to adding your latest book to my Susan Branch library shelf. Whether I win, or order the book, it doesn’t matter. I am ready to immerse myself in your travels of the English countryside!

  20. Linda Wattier says:

    Happy Valentines Day to you. Congratulations on your book!

  21. Bonnie from Iowa says:

    You are having such a wonderful Valentines Day……thank you for sharing it with us! Today it is lightly snowing here too and I have nothing to do but drink tea and look through four of your books I keep beside me all the time. I also finally went through some of my Mother’s things….she passed five years ago already…..and found the sweetest Valentine’s from her schooldays in the 30’s and 40’s. I am so glad I got this box of her treasures! I have put a few up around my computer desk so I can see them everyday. And don’t you just love the innocence and sweetness of kitties sleeping!
    Bonnie from Iowa

  22. PAT says:

    I just KNEW you’d have a special note for Valentine’s Day! my most favorite holiday too! all the hearts! the pinks! the glitter! what’s not to like! and not to mention flowers and chocolate. I’m single so treat MYSELF to all of the above! have a wonderful evening!

  23. Lynda Lara says:

    I just ordered your new book about your trip to England. If I win the giveaway book I’ll give it to my daughter. She’s recently become a fan of your books.

    You are wonderful.

  24. Lynne T. says:

    Happy Valentine’s day and for always bringing a smile to my face when I read your blog.

  25. Happy Valentine’s Day. My husband and I don’t really celebrate the day of, because every day feels like Valentine’s Day!

    Looking forward to your new book!!

    Pam, in a melty, melty Montreal

  26. Elena Stahl says:

    Dear Sweatheart(s) ~ Hope you are keeping warm in home. heart and spirit! <3
    (heart/love).

  27. Melody says:

    Oh, Susan, Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe! How wonderful to read that you finished your book! I know it is a labor of love. I can’t wait to read my very own copy!! So, yes, please include me in your drawing.

    What beautiful pictures in your post, as always. The Vineyard looks so pretty in snow. I hope to visit there again one day. Sweet pics of the kitties too.

  28. Shanna says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day, Susan and Joe! And my kitty feet also send your kitty feet heartfelt wishes. I have been eagerly awaiting your new book –and if I don’t win the advanced copy, I am definitely going to pre-order. I wouldn’t be able to wait another four months for the second printing!

    XXOO

  29. tana G says:

    Oh to win a signed copy of your book!! How wonderful! I loved the blog today. Somehow snow and Valentine’s Day goes together in my mind.
    Tana

  30. Millie Ray says:

    susan, I am waiting patiently for your book to come out. The teasers you gave in the Willard, set me on edge. I am on the pre publication list and I know that it will be a favorite in our home library. Keep up the wonderful renditions of your life, we all live vicariously though them. It’s a beautiful day here in Central Kentucky, and my love and I have had a great day, wonderful Steak and Lobster lunch and a shopping spree, all within this wonderful day.

  31. Frances Fowler says:

    Kitty bunny feet are irresistible ^_^ Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your loved ones on this, your favorite holiday. Enjoy the snow, and may there be daffodils blooming when it finally melts away!

  32. Suzanne says:

    You never do anything in an ordinary way, i.e. the egg! I had tears in my eyes also when you said you finished the book. How wonderful for you and us. Blessings on this wonderful holiday.

  33. Janet from Pgh, Pennsylvania says:

    I love the heart-shaped egg. Happy Valentine’s Day, sweet Susan. I can’t wait to get your book when it comes out. It would be especially exciting to win your drawing for the book. Either way I get your book, so I am VERY HAPPY and EXCITED. Can’t wait to read it. Take care.

  34. Linda... Gardnerville, Nevada says:

    Happy Valentines Day! Hope it’s filled with lots of hearts, love and hugs…What a perfectly fine romance! Loved reading Willard and can hardly wait for this next book…Pick me! pick me!! =}
    xoxoxo

  35. Marilyn Mooshagian says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day, Susan! I so enjoyed reading Willard today and this wonderful blog. You always make me happy! I’m pre-ordering your book. Can’t wait to receive it and hope to win the drawing so I’ll have a book for my best friend. Thanks!! Marilyn

  36. bobbie calgaro says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day! Excited about your new book. It has been a pleasure to share in the trip via internet and the writing of the book . I wish you much success with it.

  37. Hi Susan,
    Your blog always provides a happy break on what today is another dreary west coast day. Happy Valentine’s from one coast to the other.
    Wendy

  38. Marion Powell says:

    Thank you for this lovely Valentine’sd Day tribute. I loved it!

    For some reason, I never have received my Willard?? One of my frineds forwarded it to me, so I could pre-order the new book. Do I need to register for Willard?

  39. Lynn McMahon says:

    ~ Happy Valentine’s Day!~
    My hubby surprised me by taking the whole day off work today!~ We both have commitments tonight so it was great to spend most of my day with him (and some of the kids and grandkids.) ~ I made his favorite lunch as my surprise for him ( homemade pizza ) and made the kids heart shaped brownie goody bags.~ Here is hoping everyone has a great rest of the day no matter who your Valentine is~ I consider all of you my virtual Valentine’s Day Girlfriends!!~ Peace & Love~

    • Lynn McMahon says:

      P.s. I had to re~ sign up for Willard. It didn’t even end up in my spam~ go figure

      • sbranch says:

        So sorry, I can’t imagine why, but here it is Lynn… WILLARD

        • Lynn McMahon says:

          ~Thank you!~
          I just read “my” Willard~ SO very sweet of you to send me the link!~ now I REALLY can’t wait for the book!~ my BFF in CA has been to the Madonna Inn and told me all about it! She is so special her CA girlfriends got a ” sampler” of their cakes for her birthday~ now I REALLY want to go there too!! You truly are a sweetie Susan!
          ~Lynn

  40. Sylvia Johnson says:

    Of course I would love to win one of your first copies! I have ordered several for Christmas gifts. I may not be able to wait that long to give them. Maybe they will be Halloween Surprises! Thanks for all you share with me.

  41. sondra fox says:

    HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY SUSAN & FRIENDS! Just a lovely, lovely day here in So. CA. Perhaps Mother Nature is happily in love today as well. Tree

    God bless the families of the murdered & injured policemen who were cut down by a very ill criminal out here. I feel so sorry for the mother of the criminal. How alone she must feel. Our police take their lives into their hands each & every day they go to work. We do need to let them know how much we appreciate them. I’m sending a thank you note & a note of condolence to our local police.

    Back to happy stuff……….you started me doing my exercises this morning by looking upside down at the picture of you & Joe in a romantic embrace! Such a funny picture. I’ll bet all the blood in your body ran to your head!

    Loved how you recalled just why you fell in love at different times in your life. As for me, from the time I was in the third grade, there was a boy in my life of whom I was infatuated. They were always very sweet boys, some who walked me home from school, one who chased me around the play yard, twins (much older than me) who lived beside us who let me help them construct a car for the derby race in our town, one who went to military school (loved his uniform), one who was a senior & I was a freshman, one who was a Marine, one who was a gymnast, one who was an artist, an ice skater, one who had a cool car & wanted me to marry him. Even then (around fifteen), I knew I was too young for that. Then finally, the one who made me miss many meals because I couldn’t eat if I had a date with him. He was the ONE. We were fixed up by one of my best friends. At first I didn’t like him, but after a couple of dates, I knew he was kind, loved animals, was very intelligent, hard working, liked things neat & clean, was from a wonderful family, & was infatuated with me, just as I was infatuated with him. I met him between our Jr. & Sr. years. We were engaged a year after we graduated HS. He came to CA on a vacation. Decided to stay when he saw his first palm tree. I followed him a few months later. My first plane ride. We drove to Yuma, AZ (didn’t have to wait on a license in AZ) where we were married. My mother told me that if we weren’t married by sunset to get on a plane & come back home to PA. How many moms tell their daughters something like that in this day & age? Funny, eh? We’ll be married fifty four years this coming May. I chose well, don’t you think? He’s a wonderful, wonderful man. On this day of romantic thoughts, I’m thankful to all the boys who decided to like me & show me what to look for in the guy I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. We were twenty years old when we got married. Our parents were quite concerned about us getting married that young. We worked from the time we graduated HS in order to get enough money when we got married. We had $45 when we married. Over the years we went to college here in CA. My husband is an Aeronautical Engineer, I have a MA & taught in a college here in CA. We’ve always been very independent. Never requesting help or money from our PA families. It’s been a wonderful life, all because of my wonderful husband.
    (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)

    • Janet [in Rochester] says:

      What a great story, Sandy… and what a day to tell it! Happy Valentine’s Day to you both – it certainly does sound like you chose well! PS – your husband has pretty great taste too! :>)

    • Karen Saunders says:

      what a great story. in this day and age where Hollywood examples are like cats in heat, to them, marriage is treated like you’re just going steady. It’s sad. I also met my husband to be when I was a senior. We’ve known each other for 47 years and been married 43 years in Sept. We don’t look old and we don’t feel old, (most of the time!!) but when I look at those numbers I go “DANG!!” 🙂

    • Tawni urrutia says:

      YAY!!! That’s what I said out loud at the end of your comment! What a hilarious…although I’m sure very serious at the time, comment from your mother! Congrats to you and your husband on loving and living well. I wish you many more years of magic.
      ❌⭕❌⭕,
      Tawni Urrutia

  42. Judi Jacobs says:

    I was a florist for 20 years and Valentine’s Day, even tho hectic, was so warm and sweet. Each order would be uniquely done either the sender would hurriedly write the note and seal before we saw or go off to the side and write it quietly or would decide to tell us what to write. Love is still going strong is rural America

  43. Jen Skelton says:

    I have been following you breathlessly through England and beyond. My dream is to somefday “do” the Yorkshire dales. It feels to me that I belong there — my paternal grandfather and grandmother immigrated here to the US from England in 1900. I would love to have your book, paid for or not!
    P.S. Love the kitty feet. I’m always pestering my kitties to touch their toes.

  44. Sue Graham says:

    I love your give aways, as I’m sure all of us do. It’s that feeling of “maybe me, maybe this time”. But even if it’s not me and not this time, it’s still fun to dream.

  45. kat says:

    Those pink and black toesies really are the cat’s meow! <3

  46. Ann Iwanicki says:

    Wishing you a blessed Valentines Day.

  47. Faith rose says:

    Susan, Happy Valentines Day!This day has been wonderful so far!I did have something wonderful happen to me and i just had to tell you!This morning i was disapointed because my mother had to work and we have always opened valentine gifts together in the morning.But my mom suggested that we have a valentines breakfast, even though we didn’t get to open presents with her i had a wonderful time at breakfast with heart shaped pancakes , bacon , eggs and English breakfast tea!And now i am of to make your eclairs ! Thank your for brightening my day even more! Faith

  48. Tamra says:

    EVERY blog post from you is filled with hearts and flowers for us, so no one is due a more lovely and proper Valentine’s day than you, sweet Susan. Here’s hoping you and Joe sweep each other off your feet for years and years (more) to come! We adore you!

  49. Pat Beckman says:

    So excited about the book, I ordered mine already..happy Valentines Day
    Pat in Cincinnati ohio

  50. Lisa Muncy says:

    Happy Valentines Day, Susan and Joe!!
    I’m so excited to hear the book is finished! We are all filled with anticipation, I can’t wait to curl up on the couch with my quilt and cup of orange jasmine tea to read it!! I know how lovely it’s going to be, and the paintings always make me so happy. If anyone ever asks me if I’ve ever been to England, I don’t have to wholeheartedly say “No.” I can say, “Not physically, but with my imagination and through a kindred spirit, I’ve been there and seen many wonderful things. . .thanks to Susan and Joe!!”

  51. Ann says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day! Loved your choice of music. I did not receive my Willard as of yet. I can’t wait to read it. Everything you send is a gift. Stay warm.

  52. grace thorne says:

    “a fine romance,” is such a perfect title! can’t wait to see it! congrats to you susan!

  53. CAROL BRISCO says:

    Love to have the new book, have read all you’re stuff.

  54. Laurel Young says:

    Happy, happy, happy Valentine’s Day, Susan. Love your snow!
    Hugs and Hearts from “two stops away from Santa”.

  55. Kathy Phenix says:

    Happy, happy Valentine’s Day! The gifts just keep on coming. I had to read Willard in two installments because I clicked over to the blog as soon as I read that we could pre-order the new book. Got my order in for two (paid for with my 6 month old gift certificate) which had almost burned right through my pocket!! Then I went back and leisurely finished reading Willard. And now a new blog with “kitty feet”! Who could ask for anything more? Your snow and warm toasty fire are so inviting. It’s been raining and gloomy most of the day here in Florida. Hard to put up with rain after sun and 85 degrees yesterday. I’ll try to bare up! LOL
    Have a blessed and loving day. Kathy in Melbourne

  56. Rachel says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day, Susan 🙂 I hope you and Joe had a fabulous day. Also, happy Valentine’s Day to Jack and Girl!
    OOoh… does that mean you have finished the book? I can’t wait (I sent the link to my DH after I read Willard, and demanded that he take note ;))

  57. Connie B says:

    Happy Love Day…xoxo

  58. Carole in OC says:

    happy valentine’s day from one anglophile to another!

  59. Kelley says:

    Congratulations on almost finishing “A Fine Romance”!! I am with everyone else and look forward it arriving later this year. Thank you for offering the ‘pre-peek’ and the pre-order. 🙂

    Happy Valentine’s Day to You and Joe!

  60. Gail Rose says:

    I’m having a wonderful day knowing I have a book coming my way sooner or later.LOL

  61. Gini Gould says:

    Happy Sweetheart Day, Susan! Once more your post puts a skip in my step. 🙂 I’m privileged to be included in your new book “A Fine Romance” drawing, and know your heart is threaded throughout each page. Your tears of completion yesterday are very touching. It’s clear that you put your heart and soul into this accomplishment; such a blessing it already is to us Girlfriends! Must tell you that I applied still another one of your ideas: covering a wall-hanging ironing board with a quilt piece that had been forgotten, under layers of old laces and linens, in an antique store way up in the Sierra Mts. I found it; love it; it’s stunning for the old, dull, laundry room in our 1924 house. This quilt-covered ironing board gives the spark and inspiration for completing the decor. (It joins a huge 1880 fire house hose basket from England I use for storing linens.) These two treasures are “making” the room, and both are reminders of you! Sending love to you Susan, for love travels well.

  62. Alison says:

    Just getting ready for bed after a lovely valentines evening including a cup of tea brought to me whilst I had a soak in the bath ahhhh the simple things and love in action from my gorgeous husband.Love reading your blog and looking forward to reading your new book I love that you love my country and being a walker I often roam the Lake District fells and the Derbyshire peaks ,once whilst having our butties (sandwiches) an extremely friendly and forward sheep tried to take it out of my hand! I didn’t know they liked cheddar cheese haha x

  63. Debbie says:

    I LOVE Valentine’s Day! And I love your work!

  64. Nanci Stigge says:

    So excited to see the subject of your new book! I just wish it was coming out sooner. We are planning a trip there in June! Hope I win the book!

  65. Janice Pipes says:

    You always bring a smile to my heart when I read your blog. You remind us that you can find joy any where you look. God has blessed us with sunshine and 70* weather here on the central coast today. Going to take advantage of it and cook my honey a steak on the BBQ with Jockos seasoning.
    Take care and can’t wait for your new book.
    Janice

    • Grace Borbe says:

      Happy Valentine’s Day Susan! I am looking forward to reading your new book while I sip my own cup of tea. I love England too. God bless you!

      Cheers,
      Grace
      Marina Del Rey, California

    • Marianne Doyle Medina says:

      Thank you for my virtual chocolates (zero calories) and the lovely virtual roses. You have always had an honorary place in my circle of girlfriends. We chat over your artwork/books & enjoy sampling your recipes over tea. As I sit here this Valentine’s evening, sipping herbal tea…the calm before the getting everyone off to bed & lights out, I want to thank you. You are the eyes and ears for many of us. I love that you share your adventures with us, taking us places we might never have been. Happy Valentine’s Day to You & Yours, with admiration, from Me & Mine.

    • Mary V. says:

      The joy you bring to all of us. Kindred spirits, that travel with you, when most of us can not. Its a wonderful retreat, for the mind and heart, in HOPE, it will happen for me. Your books, & website are true treasure!!

  66. Jamie says:

    I can not wait for this to come out. This is just the type of trip to England I’d like to take, either an armchair trip or possibly a real one.

  67. Beverly Brewer says:

    Thank you for the sweet Valentine post and wonderful Willard—I rec’d both today and they brightened my morning! I think the diary will be the perfect size to slip into our handbags—when we have a lunch break we can find a cozy spot or bench and slip away to England via your beautiful illustrations, photos, newsy notes and info, quotations and heartfelt thoughts the way you so eloquently write them. Do you remember the bubble bath commercial that says “Calgon, take me away?” This book will be our escape, too!

  68. Marie S. says:

    Susan, just loved your Valentine to all your readers…. Brought back many happy memories of my husband, and this special holiday. So looking forward to your new book, as I have memories of the same places you and Joe visited — especially the sheep with their painted spots on their backs.

  69. stephanie says:

    Oh Susan, you ‘re just the best!!! Happy Valentines Day to you! I would love, love, love to win your new book, “A fine romance ” as I have all of your books, most signed (except I still need baby love) . Hope you are enjoying a romantic day cuddled up by the fire with Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack;)

  70. Happy Valentine’s Day! Just love love love every post you send our way. I can’t wait to curl up by a fire and read your new book. But even more, I can’t wait for San Luis Obispo! We are already planning a girls weekend. Can’t wait to see you!

  71. Milanya says:

    Today is my 43rd wedding anniversary, and we always enjoy a double celebration on Valentine’s Day. We’ve had “A Fine Romance.” Please enter me in the drawing for the autographed copy of the book.

    I didn’t get my Willard so when I’ve finished with this note I’ll check it out on your web site. I thought I was signed up for it and I don’t want to miss the pre-order form.

    • sbranch says:

      Happy Anniversary Milanya!

      • Joleen Standley says:

        I am so excited about the book being finished. Really looking forward to my copy I am ordering tomorrow. I always look for your blog amongst my emails. Makes my day. You do a lot of cheering up. That must make you feel really good.

  72. Linda from Michigan says:

    Hello Sweet Sue! Happy Valentines Day to you too. Thanks for entering my name in the drawing! I love kitty feet too. But my kitty won’t let me touch them. 🙁
    Linda

  73. Arlene says:

    Love, love your Willard letters and am always excited to read a new one. The sneak peak into your newest book just begs for more reading.

  74. Nancy Anderson says:

    Hello Susan!
    I was so excited about you book I ordered it yesterday!!
    Ahh, but don’t think for a moment that I wouldn’t enjoy another!
    That way I can give the first one to my Girlfriend!

    Happy Valentine’s day! Thank you for the virtual chocolates, I ate them already!
    (Didn’t even save one for my hubby – hee)

    Love you for all you are and do, you brighten the world.

    Hugs,
    Nancy Anderson

  75. karen adams says:

    Oh, to be in England now that spring is there! Don’t remember who said that, but am looking forward to seeing England through your eyes and traveling via armchair!

  76. Kathy B says:

    Sweetest egg I’ve ever seen – – – lucky fella!
    Enjoyed the post and Willard so much – – always brings joy. It must be starting to feel lighter to have the book at this stage – – we are all looking forward to adding it to the collection – – I spend a great deal of time on each page of your work enjoying the spirit of the art – – – it really is a joy,
    Thanks so much for sharing with us!

  77. Nancy says:

    Hi Susan — Happy Valentine’s Day! I did not receive my “Willard” either, and it was not in my spam. This has happened several times before, so I just keep signing up for it. Oh well . . . . . .

  78. Wendy Louise says:

    Happy Valentines Day Susan and Joe, and all the girlfriends,oxoxoxoxoxox. I was baking all morning making your cream puffs and then delivering them to my grown- up beautiful kids and friends. Wish I could have popped down to MV and bring you some. I made them small and put them on pretty old vintage plates that they can keep and pass on to others if they like. I love buying old plates and putting something on them and give them away. I am waiting patiently for Willard, but I just read a few posts up and found the link so thank-you sooooo much you darling person. What a lovely journey we are on, we are all blessed with so much love. I am off to read Willard and add to my wonderful Valentines Day ! OXOX 🙂

  79. julie bersano says:

    Susan,

    It’s great to know that you make a heart-shaped breakfast for someone special in your life too <3 I have a heart cutter that I use to cut hearts out of pancakes, french toast, fried eggs, sausage patties, and toast for my kids each year. This is the first year I did not do that because our now 15 year old son wasn't that hungry and our 12 year old daughter wasn't awake at the same time…..I was a little sad because I find it hard to let go of certain traditions…especially when it comes to hearts, red, pink, and love!! HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to someone sweet who understands love, hearts, sweet things and traditions! 🙂

  80. Sherry Moran says:

    Beautiful pictures and yes, I love kitty feet, also. So dainty, usually.
    Thank you for finishing the book – I would love to win, but will definitely buy one – or two!

  81. Jennifer says:

    I can’t wait to read this book.

  82. Debbie says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day! It’s my favorite holiday too! A day of beauty and romance. I never quite understand when people are anti Valentine’s Day. I’m for any holiday that celebrates love and chocolate! I am thankful for the chance to tell the special people in my life that I love them. I feel lucky already that we get to preorder our book. Can’t wait!
    Debbie

  83. julie bersano says:

    I forgot to say “Thanks for the honey wand link!!
    Julie B….(hungry for honey) in MO

  84. Carolyn says:

    What would I cherish, yes, a copy of this most cherishable book, I would oh so love to be the winner of this most precious part of your life and priceless artwork from you- I would be so happy to be chosen – Thank you for your daily inspirations – I join in with all of the other Girlfriends, to say Happy Valentines Day- we luv ya –

  85. Laura Benthien says:

    Your writings are so fun to read! Im ready willing and able to go over to Great Brittain! You make the country look so much more inviting than what you ever see on TV, which is just usually a blip about London. I cant wait for your book to be published! Im happy to be in the running for a copy!

  86. Vera Black says:

    Hi Susan–I just finished reading your Willard Newsletter and enjoyed it so much!! You make Winter feel so warm and wonderful,even if it is so cold outside! Would love to have a copy of “A Fine Romance”,reading about all your exciting adventures in England! Happy Valentines Day!!

  87. Bev says:

    I have a smile on my face. Willard was in my mailbox! I so treasure all that beautiful creativity you put into all that you share with us. Can’t wait for your book to come out. It was wonderful to be able to travel with you to England last year. Each page of your book will be a treasure hunt. Loved Joe’s Valentine egg. My DH and I have enjoyed your snowy days, too. Love the pictures of Jack all nestled and warm. Blessings.

  88. Toni says:

    Happy St. Valentine’s Day, Susan

  89. Bonnie says:

    Thank you so much for taking me along on your trip to England. It was sooo much fun to run home from work each night to see if there was a new post. And now I have the excitement of waiting for the book 😉

  90. Rita Wilson says:

    I just finished reading your blog & I loved it. I would love to curl up with your
    new book right now!

  91. Ivy Z. says:

    Happy Valentine’s day! I can’t wait to get your book. I hope I get Willard soon, I don’t want to miss a thing. Thank you for all your beautiful pictures and words.
    Ivy 🙂

  92. Patti Fletcher says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day Susan & Joe!
    My husband & I met 31 years ago on Valentine’s Day, right at my own front door.
    We’ve had a “Fine Romance” ever since! I love receiving my Willard and read your Blog every chance I get.
    I hope I win!! (lol)

  93. Melissa Leathley says:

    Now I feel like it’s Valentine’s Day. Thank you for that!
    I would love to win the drawing so I’ll think good thoughts of our Vanna and maybe she will pull my name out of the hat? Whoever wins is a blessed person!!
    I didn’t my Willard yet but I will keep looking.
    Thank you Susan,
    Melissa

  94. Debby Holman says:

    Thanks so much for the Valentine, Susan. It was my favorite one of the day. Love the picture of Joe “dipping” you, and, of course the ones of Jack. Thanks for all the warm fuzzies you bring to my life.

  95. Asha says:

    Hi Susan! You’ve done it again! A wonderful Valentine blog! We “girlfriends” are all so blessed to have you! Happy Hearts Day to you, Joe and the kitties! Haven’t received Willard yet! Hope it’s in my e-mail. Love you! oxoxox

  96. Holly Roeder says:

    I am so glad to have found your blog!!

  97. Lori says:

    I can’t wait to see the book. I went to England for my honeymoon, 20 years ago this summer!

  98. Anne Miller says:

    Susan, I have been a fan since 1986. Your blog helps me find my “serenity now” moments. Stay well. Please keep doing what you do so beautifully and unselfishly. BLESSINGS!

  99. Melinda Waddell says:

    I would love, love, love to win a copy of your new book. Can’t wait until it comes out. I’ve been a fan for a long time :o)

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