Hello Girlfriends! How’s everyone this morning? We are good here, it’s not snowing and we have MUSICA! I’ve been thinking about booksignings . . .
. . . and where we might go in the fall when A Fine Romance gets here! With the way time is flying, it will be September before we know it — so I’m trying to get ready. I thought I’d show you few of my past book signings. I’m the one behind the camera in this first photo, just before giving a talk to the wonderful people at the Flying Geese Quilt Guild; there’s my mom in the front row sitting next to Joe. This was so fun, I got to meet and talk to everyone here. I wonder if any of you are in this audience?!
This is a signing at the Yankee Book Store in Plymouth, MA — all my Vineyard girlfriends came with me, we piled in the car, got on the ferry and made a day out of it — when I got to the bookstore I found the room, as usual, was full of kindred spirits!
There’s two of them now! While I’m signing, I can always hear the laughing and talking between the people waiting their turn to get their books signed … I can’t help but think what I’m missing! I enjoy one-on-one time with each person who comes up, but I do think the real fun is in the line!
This is the Remnants of the Past Show in San Luis Obispo, California, a couple of years ago. How can you not love an event in a beautiful location that’s all about antiques! BTW, the woman wearing brown on the left is one of our girlfriends who I was just about to meet in person for the first time, Joann, who came to the event all the way from Colorado (she’s at @myheartsathome on Twitter — go say hi if you can!).
And here is one of the most delightful things I love about signings and what makes them such a privilege, people bring their families, husbands, sisters, best friends, moms, and their darling little girls and I get to meet them. It’s always a family affair.
So I’ve been thinking and trying to figure out where we should go on our book tour — we will probably be on the road in the western states from the middle of September through November 9-10 (when I will be at the Remnants of the Past show again). Then we’ll be going home, where we can do more events in the Midwest and on the East Coast.
I happened on that magical photograph of our ship, fresh from the wild Atlantic ocean, sliding back into America at dawn (on the Queen Mary 2) last July, I can still hear the whoosh of the water and the boat horn — it gave me what I thought was a . . .
. . . perfectly brilliant idea (if I do say so myself). The original Queen Mary, that wonderful old ship, Cunard White Star’s RMS Queen Mary (that’s her above), launched in 1936, is now a permanently-docked hotel in Long Beach, California. I was thinking this would be the perfect place to “launch” A Fine 
Romance! I could plan it now, far in advance so maybe lots of people could arrange to go . . . it wouldn’t be the only place I’d go, just the first. I was envisioning an English Tea Party on board in the Queen’s Ballroom, with cups and cakes; Fred Astaire could be singing (he sailed on this very ship), and we’d have a Book Talk and Signing! You could bring your books, your mom, your sister, your daughter, and your best friend; we could wear Downton Abbey hats . . . on a September day in California on a beautiful old ship with the Pacific Ocean out our portholes? Could it get any better? A girl can dream and I’m good at that. Because when I called to talk to the nice people at the Queen Mary about my brilliant idea, I found out that although they do have an afternoon tea on board (which I’ll take my mom to when I get out there), they don’t have enough equipment, cake stands, teapots, etc. to do a tea party for more than a hundred. 
“No tea” was a setback, but the price was the problem. For the ballroom alone (beautiful, old, restored to original), not counting any food or drink or waitstaff, just the room (which can hold 200 to 300 people) and chairs lined up in “theater style,” is $7000 to start, for a Sunday from noon to 4pm. And no, they wouldn’t let me just “set up” on the deck … 🙂 So. This is what I call the proverbial arm and a leg. Unless one of you knows the owner of the ship … your dad maybe? I realized, I need to get more creative.
So I thought I’d start with you. We’re planning in advance because it takes time to organize and the months go by so quickly, it will be here before we know it. We’ll be contacting lots of 
bookstores — I’ll be sure to put a schedule here so you can see what we’ve arranged. But I thought I’d also ask, in case any of you are planning a large event out west durning September or October of this year, (or November and December in the East) — events such as a quilt guild gathering, perhaps something at the Quilt Festival in Houston, or a vintage antique show like Remnants, maybe a charity or church event, a women’s club that needs a speaker, or perhaps you know a teashop that would want to host a booksigning and have lots of people descend on them all at once! Somewhere I could go and meet lots of you at the same time. Those kinds of occassions are always the most fun, but they do require a little space. 
I could give a talk but it could also just be a signing like at Remnants; the best part is, because of the nice people I meet, these get-togethers always feel like a tea party whether there’s tea or not. ♥
Don’t worry one little bit if you can’t think of anything, and there’s no real hurry, I just thought I’d try.
My darling Dad turns an extremely YOUNG 90-years-old this August! So we’re going to his house in Arizona — and from there, out to California — we’ll start our tour after the book arrives in September. Our main problem is we can’t take Jack or Girl Kitty with us! We will have to get our kitty sitter to come back!
Now, just in case you think I do nothing but worry about the book . . .
Hello. Peek-a-boo.
Yes, I’m still in my chair working away, as spring meanders in on the back roads in the most unnoticeable way possible — here is the view from my desk at my frozen little garden. Our book isn’t quite done, although it’s all written and laid out, I still have handwriting and watercolors to paint, but I am ecstatic every day, doing it. I wake up excited. It’s a pleasure to put the final touches on it. I wrote a book! OMG!
I have three windows in my studio, here’s another view from my chair.
This window is behind me. Yesterday, just at dawn, it was blue outside, the snow was blue, the shadows were blue. The white was ice blue, the coldest looking blue you ever saw. But by yesterday afternoon . .
. . . . we could hear the ice sliding off the roof and watch clumps of it fall past the windows and out of the trees, almost like it was snowing again, so much coming down, We had a major thaw!
That got me out of my chair…
. . . and outside with the camera. This is the kind of thing that makes the newspapers on Martha’s Vineyard, the first sightings of snowdrops! For me it’s knowing that in plenty of time for the daffodils, I’ll be finished with the book, and can start playing house again, making Coconut Cake for Easter, reading a new book, eating lunch in a restaurant with my new British Country Living, all the things I love to do.
When the snow was coming off the roof, it was loud, cracking, breaking up and sliding. Jack kept looking up wanting to know if I needed him to go upstairs and check on what was going on.
This boy gets smarter every day. For instance. The pony tail bands be loves me to shoot for him? We have them in all colors and what’s good about them is they don’t roll. So we have to do a lot less crawling around trying to find them like we had to do with the balls. But, for some reason we could not figure out, the rubber bands began to 
disappear. Joe couldn’t find any, and I couldn’t either. We asked Jack. This was the expression on his face. Hmmm.
We have a scale like a doctor’s scale, only half size. There’s maybe an eighth of an inch between the bottom of the scale and the floor. One day I noticed that Jack was zeroed in on this scale, staring at it, his eyes big and round and focused with his nose right to the edge of it. Was he trying to tell me something? I picked it up, it’s heavy, and moved it. There were five rubber bands under it. He had to work to put them there, one at a time, and he remembers where they are! Just another day in paradise . . .
OK, Girlfriends, must go work on book! Talk to you soon, have a wonderful day. Love your comments, as you know, you are brilliant and we are the normal ones! ♥
Good morning Susan! Really loved reading about your book tour plans and hope you plan to come somewhere near Philadelphia. I’m sure we have legions of girlfriends around here! To all of the winter weary Anglophiles near and far, I want to extend an invite to the annual Philadelphia Flower Show which starts this week and runs from March 2-10 this year at the PA Convention Center. The theme is “Brilliant”, which covers the British Isles! Looking forward to this breath of early spring gardening and of course, shopping. Just my cup of tea!
Hope to see you here! Cheerio! Kathleen
I agree with you Kathleen! Everything I dream of going to is always in the Midwest or California. Us Philadelphia people have lots of love to give too!
Hi Kathleen and Betsy,
I’m origainally from Philly. I felt very nostalgic reading about the Philadelphia Flower show. Such a beautiful event. Have fun!
Dear Susan,
I am so excited about your new book and would love to see you at the International Quilt Festival in Houston, Texas this fall where your girlfriends number in the legions!! Love for you is huge here in the awesome state of Texas. Please think about coming south for one of your book signings!!
Kisses~~Karen
I’ve been to that event, so much fun! I put it on my list!
Houston…Please…Oh, what fun we could have! I am a member of the Junior League Tea Room & could put my organizing hat on for a fun event…:-) Please, oh please, oh please…don’t you hate begging! xo
Hi Susan I think you should come back to England to kick your book signing off! It would be very appropriate but probably not very realistic!!!
But I could throw one to introduce your book to all my family & friends…mmm I will have to think about that! lol xxxx
LOL, would love to come to England … as I’m sure you know!
You could maybe ask the ship you sailed on to sponsor your book launch with a return voyage! While on the ship, you and Joe could give travel lectures on the way over. Sights to visit, historic homes, hotels, restaurants. You could conduct watercolor and travel diary classes. A whole separate class on the life and art of Beatrix Potter. Cooking classes where you teach how to make the recipes in your book. They SHOULD give you a complimentary trip…it would be wonderful and everyone would love it!!! (Except Jack and Girl)
You know there are always speakers on cruise ships, and they don’t pay for their cabins. You could very likely get a speaking gig on a ship with all the great ideas above!
We have found it difficult to get through to the powers that be on the Cunard line, in particular, but we are still trying!
Let me know when you arrange this Susan and I’m there!
Wouldn’t that be fun!
Please, oh please come to Richmond VA. I do not know where you could set up, as I do not have any connections, but I would love to see you here!
That’s OK, we’re looking for different bookstores to visit … I ‘ll try!
I could make that one! 🙂
wow the time flies, i keep looking for signs that my daffodils are coming up but i haven’t seen them yet. usually they are up by St, Patrick’s day and that is not far away now. i wish i could help you out with the tea party idea on the Queen Mary but i don’t know anyone connected to that ship…sorry. well i have a busy morning, i have to catch Miss Kitty and get her in the cat carrier and out the door for her appointment at the vets’ for her booster shots, this is not going to be pretty as she yowls and carries on all the way to the vets’, in the office and afterward. how do Girl Kitty and Jack behave for their appointments to the vets’???? i’ll be back later, scratched and slightly deaf after the vets’ appointment. have a good morning. hugs…… 🙂
They seem to go into a daze. And are just very happy to be home again afterwards.
hello again, we are back home from the vets’ i think we all survived. Miss Kitty got her shots and was very vocal about letting us know her opinion of the whole thing, but she was a good girl and is home all curled up and napping by the woodstove. i’m a bit clawed up and deaf in one ear from all her yowling and complaining. once home i opened the carrier and she walked out with one last complaint, and headed for her favorite place to nap. well don’t have to go through for another year or so….what relief for both of us. onward to tackle the mountain of dirty laundry ( my dryer died and now its fixed so i can catch up on the laundry) and run the dustmop around. have a great day everyone. hugs….. 🙂
Pat, it’s so good seeing back on the blog once again. I’ve missed reading about your adventures on your farm. I feel like we’re friends with our towns being so close to each other 🙂
Carol M
Pat, you crack me up:) My kitties were good in the car. Actually just stuck them in a box and put a towel over it. As long as I had the radio on the station they were used to they were quiet. MN girls – it was WCCO w/Boone & Erickson – loved those guys:)) cats did too!
judi–that is the same station we leave on the radio for our schnauzers when we leave them at home alone! LOL!!! 🙂
Wait until I take the 3 feral kitties to the vet. I’m thinking just drop them off, wave to the vet and say, “I’ll be back at 5:00….please spay, neuter, shots and worm” Ta Ta
Better bake some cookies for the office and vet staff the next day and take it to the wounded!
Chris
Hi Susan, thanks for letting us visit you in your magical studio. I think it would be wonderful if you could sign your amazzzzing new book at the Country Living Fair in Columbus, Ohio in September. There certainly will be a crowd there who would love to see you. Thanks for being here whenever I need a lift. I am so making that coconut cake this week-end. My Mom will soon be 88 and will love it. Linda
Would love to just GO to that ! 🙂
OOOH! I second this idea!!! Please see if you could do this. I would love to meet you AND the girlfriends. What a fun thing to look forward to 🙂 xoxo
Linda, as I read Susan’s post I thought of the CL Fair, I’ve always wanted to go….. someday!
If you are still interested in a ship, try the Hornblower in San Diego. They have quite a few different ships and prices. Looking forward to your new book.
blessings, jill
OK thanks Jill!
There must be a place in San Diego. I’m going to put on my thinking cap. Funny, I was thinking about it a few weeks ago – where could we have Susan visit in San Diego?
Just starting the conversation, we do have time, and who knows, it could be interesting! 🙂
Jill — great minds really do think alike! That was the first thing I thought of when reading about the cost of the Queen Mary. I think a booksigning harbor cruise aboard a Hornblower ship is just the thing. Another idea I had, with San Diego’s beautiful weather, would be an outdoor booksigning at La Jolla Cove where there is lawn, picnic tables (for a catered tea service?) and the magnificent beauty of the Pacific ocean as it crashes against the shore rocks just a few yards away, forming foaming tidepools to explore, and the beach with all the seals sunning themselves in the sand! Maybe that wonderful independent La Jolla bookstore, Warwick’s, could be convinced to help with the planning and securing the site for us if they’re on board with Susan’s book. Hmmmm…..good idea or pie in the sky?
Love LaJolla! If we keep talking about it, we’ll get it all figured out!
Yea…let’s keep this conversation going!
OK — I’ll keep the conversation going with another idea for San Diego — the Hotel Del Coronado – right on the beach with its grand and elegant Victorian architecture, the Crown Room and many other lovely venues both indoor and out, rumoured meeting place of Edward, Prince of Wales and Wallis Simpson back in 1920. I’m sure they could do a proper British tea, but I have no idea of cost — could be a little pricey but definitely worth checking into. Susan, aside from submitting possible booksigning sites, is there more we can do to help accomplish anything in our respective towns and cities, such as gather venue and pricing information for specific sites?
La Jolla!!! I am so there….love that place. We moved from San Diego last year and I am having serious beach withdrawals. But my favorite place is Coronado Island. Their library is huge, and may be a good launching point. Across from the library is their beautiful park, complete with white bandstand. I could so on and on.
blessings, jill
Hi Jill — the library in Coronado is a great idea, especially with the park and bandstand across the street! Linda Pintarell has posted her Email address a little further on for more San Diego ideas. I have sent her an Email, and between the three of us, and hopefully more San Diego area Girlfriends, I’m sure we can come up with something wonderful for Susan’s booksigning here. I so look forward to meeting you, Linda and many more San Diego area Girlfriends wherever the booksigning happens here.
-Marianne-
Yikes! Glad to see the STOP sign right behind you!!! Great views out your working window! I’m so excited about your book signings events…can’t think of a single brilliant thing for you to do, just want you to know – I’m excited!!! It’s lovely visiting with you this morning my dear, I guess I should go so you can finish our book! ♥ Joanie
I have the perfect place for you…in the deep south (Louisiana)! Oh, please, please try & come to visit the girlfriends here. Wish I had the perfect venue..oh wait, I DO…my own country home! Four acres, lots of trees, a soft bayou breeze gently ruffling the tablecloths as we gather around the tables scattered through-out the yard. Lots of good Cajun food, grandmother’s favorite dessert recipes displayed on cherished, old plates/trays. A collection of tea cups, gently worn from years of use, yet so precious and the perfect way to enjoy tea/coffee. The girlfriends gathered, giddy with the joy of welcoming our “kindred spirit”, Susan. Oh what a glorious day!!! OK..so I can dream,too. BUT, I mean every word of it, and would be honored to host such an event. We may not number in the hundreds in our humble little village, but we love you just the same. We are one hour from New Orleans and Baton Rouge so perhaps you will find a way to make it to one of those larger cities? I will anxiously await your listing of cities….and praying I get to be at one of them.
How beautiful that sounds Becky!! I will keep that in mind!
That sounds so good, that I would go down to see you Becky!!! A Bayou Breeze! I can hear the Jazz and taste the food already.
I love the picture of Jack & his pretty green eyes! I haven’t seen snow and ice for so long.
Tea on the Queen Mary would be so lovely, but the price, not so much….
Living down here in southern Georgia it is a rare treat so see snowflakes & sparkling ice crystals. Thanks for sharing your beautiful pictures and words. Hope your day is warm and wonderful!
It would be wonderful if you could do a “signing” some place in Texas! We live in such a rural area that I’m sure we’d have to drive, but…we are used to driving an hour to Abilene, 1 1/2 hours to Wichita Falls, and 2 hrs to the metroplex! Just keep us in mind when you are planning!
Hi Rhonda,
I’m rural also! I KNOW Susan isn’t coming to Knickerbocker and I’m an hour and a half from Abilene and just over 3 hours from Ft Worth! But we know how to travel! I’m open to Ft Worth/Dallas, Austin or San Antonio. Houston is a long haul but for Susan I would travel there if I had to. I hope the girlfriends in the metroplex area can come up with a perfect spot for a book signing. Hint, hint….come on girls, we are depending on you!
Chris
Time and time again, I love to read your blogs 🙂 Thank you for sharing!
Boy did I get excited when I read about your ‘plans’ for the tea party on the Queen Mary.
I thought wow she’ll be so close to where I live! It sounds like a perfect venue—–but
Reality set in —–things like that do cost money. Drat!! If I win the lotto I would
Happily rent out the Ballroom. But, my original plan is to go to SLO—our son & his
Family live there. Looking forward to Nov.
I am an East Coast person, currently landlocked in New Hampshire! Could travel to the Cape or the Vineyard for a book signing . . . it would be fun to see you again. It has been many years! Loved seeing the snowdrops peaking through the snow. We still have many inches on the ground and more coming tomorrow! Don’t mind it. Winter is for snow!
Oh, Susan, the Queen Mary would have been great, you set such a scene. Can hardly wait for your California visit. Jack is adorable, can I squeeze and cuddle him? XOXO Donna
Hi Susan,
Just had to look and there was your new Blog post!! Woo Hoo! So fun to see the book signing pictures and know those who were there will look and look to find themselves! You are such a sweetie with all your dreamy ideas and I cannot wait for the book and the signings. We have a Barnes and Noble in Colorado Springs with lots of room for a signing. They could move things around 🙂 I think!!
Book signings with Authors who are our Friend are the best. You have Eric Carle in Massachusetts and his book signings are delightful too. As a former Kgtn. teacher I have lots of his books ….signed.
Love and Hugs and Blessings for your day there!!!
Irene Talaasen
Susan, I am working on something to bring you and Joe to sunny Florida (after hurricane season of course). We’re all going to be wracking our brains and creative juices to have a Susan Branch event. So, get ready! We love you sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
THAT would be great!
Yes, yes, yes!! I vote for FL. Now we just have to think of a great place to hold the event. Kathy from Melbourne
Good morning, Susan. What a happy, sunny, good news post this morning. Can’t wait, can’t wait, can’t wait to see you in California. I have an autographed copy of Autumn and hope to have you sign A Fine Romance. The Queen Mary idea is just divine. I really hope it works out. I may see you more than once in California! Love your photos of Spring springing out all over. It’s a cool, crisp, bright sunny day here today. I walked the dogs this morning for the first time in a long time (shame on me) and then logged on to your very spring-y blog. What a nice way to start the day.
Wowee, I love the Queen Mary idea – why not come to Seattle instead? We have a wonderful group here called SITU (Somewhere In Time Unlimited – “in situ”) which does lots of those kinds of events – just people who kind of pull things together – know where to go to find the venues, etc. for a magical time! Here’s their website (I’m not affiliated with them, just know about them) – situseattle.com/ I bet they can figure out something wonderful and Queen Mary/Downton Abbeyish. Their events tend to be “pay your own way”, so of course, everyone pays a little and nobody pays a lot – everyone dresses up in costumes and has a wonderful time. Think about it – I’d love it if you came to Seattle, and I’d be happy to set up what I can from here…
Julie
[email protected]
I will check that out Julie, thank you so much!
Loved your post today Susan. Always a pleasure to see what’s going on in your beautiful world. Nice to see a hint of spring to come…could be right around the corner now. It’s times like this I wish I lived in America. I’m so close to you, yet so far away. Would love to attend one of your book signings. I know it would be a memory to live forever in my heart. But I know that my heart will be there at each and every one of them, smiling.
I have some not so good news for everyone today. I have been diagnosed with cancer, and they are telling me that it is serious. I would appreciate any prayers from the girlfriends that they can offer. I am so thankful for this blog Susan. It is always, each and every day, one of the highlights of my day. As I pray and do everything I can do to keep well, this will always keep me inspired to have something amazing to look forward to each day, to keep my head above water and fight on to health. I know God is with me and taking good care of me, He answers prayer, and I’m praying for victory! God bless each and everyone of you, and I pray for health and well being for you all.
Oh Rhonda girlfriend, I’m so sorry! I will keep you in my prayers. You have such a positive outlook, I know that’s half the battle. I am praying for your victory also. You see people coming out the other side of this disease all the time, they make it through, especially with a beautiful strong attitude like yours. Sending love. xoxo
Sending prayers & love!
sending prayers and good thoughts winging your way Rhonda. i’ll be keeping you in my thoughts ad prayers, my mom died from pancreatic cancer 17 years ago. the sad thing is if her doctor had paid better attention and not brushed it off to women’s complaints, she would have survived. that doctor is on my hit list these days.
I have “glow-in-the-dark stars on my ceiling in my bedroom and there is a Cancer Praying Star….and every night, I will pray for you Rhonda and thinking good thoughts. Bless you and hang on to your positive attitude….xo
Rhonda, you keep your chin up and stay positive that is 100% of this battle ahead of you. My prayers and positive thoughts are coming your way, and you will conquer this and have a beautiful life ahead of you. Blessings
Dear Rhonda, I will pray for victory for you too! Keep that positive attitude and you can beat this. There is strength in numbers and we have the numbers here.
Sweet Rhonda, I am sending a big prayer your way! I am at my 3 1/2 year mark right now with my own battle with cancer. Wrapping up a hug and all the best wishes too. <3
I will pray every day for you Rhonda. There is a real power in prayer, and the SB girlfriends are good prayers!
Praying for you, Rhonda!!
I have put you on my prayer list, Rhonda—-may God bless you and heal you and may you know His comfort and His peace. I’m at home now—had “internal female repair” surgery two weeks ago, and am feeling pretty good, if not ready to go dancing quite yet—so I have LOTS of time to pray. It’s been wonderful to have this quiet time of enforced rest; friends, neighbors and family have been so kind and supportive, I am most grateful. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—sometimes people just don’t know what you need, so you must tell them! 🙂 Sending healing hugs—
Strong thoughts for your fight Rhonda. Fist pump!!!!
Rhonda, I whispered a prayer for you as soon as I read your post. Your sweet, brave spirit shines through in your writing. Please remember that you are going to have so many girlfriends wishing you well and lifting you up in our prayers. Blessings to you, dear girlfriend.
As did I dear Rhonda! I am an 8 year breast cancer survivor…..and with a positive attitude and all of our prayers, you will pray that you will be also. Our Lord is with you and so are all of your Girlfriends.
Jan from Northern CA
Dear Rhonda, I too will have you in my prayers and I second what Libby says. It is so important to let your friends and family know what you want from them. Often people are at a loss for what to say – so they say nothing. Miracles happen every day.
Praying too for you Rhonda, you can do this with the beautiful out look you have. Yes like Libby said, people want to help so ask, that’s what we are here for, others!
Dear Rhonda, thinking of/praying for you since I read your news earlier this am. Trying to think of something [anything] that might be helpful to say – and others have clearly said it better. But if health can be strengthened, then restored by love & prayers & good wishes, by virtual hugs & warm thoughts, and by a positive, uplifting attitude like the one you have – and I firmly believe it can – then you are all set. Because we all know that those things abound to overflowing here in this very special place. Be sure to let us know how it’s going and how we can help… Big huge ginormous warm squeeze!!! Can ya feel that? That’s all of us here, I know it is… xoxo :>)
Janet, I can’t describe to you how much I can feel all this support. There are just no words. It has catapulted me to a place where I have a great amount of peace and I actually now feel that I can start to conquer this disease instead of it conquering me. I’m thankful beyond words.
Rhonda, Prayers for peace and healing for you. They have so many treatments now days and more becoming available all the time. My sister got cancer 24 years ago and is doing great today!! Stay positive!
Oh yes, Rhonda..please count me in..I will definately keep you in my prayers…I’m so glad you have found Susan’s peaceful blog to come to when you need a respite from the rest of the world.
You will be in our prayers here as well ! There is truly power in prayer and I know they are heard. Wishing you blessings.
Prayers coming your way, Rhonda! God cares for you and loves you very much. Keep positive and try to laugh every day. It really helps. God bless you.
Dear Rhonda,
You got it. I will keep you in my prayers each and every day. Sending loads of healing hugs.
Debbie R, Valencia CA
Dear Rhonda,
I will keep you in my prayers.
Love and Hugs,
Christy
Rhonda,
Been down that road myself. The beginning is the worst. Get over that bump and then surround yourself with all the positive loving people that you can. This news is hard enough on yourself but it can be equally hard on those that love you. My older sister was devastated when she heard my cancer diagnosis. I was fortunate to have the best of the worst and made it through treatment. Please know that I will be thinking of you and sending all the prayers out that I can.
Rhonda, I am praying for you and God’s Will in your life. I was diagnosed with cancer in fall of 2010 and I am not going to sugarcoat it, but God will bring so many positives out of it. I am doing well now and know you will come out shining like the sun. Keep your heart focused on God and let Him be your strength. I promise He will bring good things to you and draw you ever closer to Him. It changed me for the better and I am thankful to His grace.
That was so beautifully said, and by the perfect person to say it. xoxo
Rhonda, I am three years out from endometrial cancer. If you need someone to talk to, let me know.
You are a doll Elizabeth.
Elizabeth, I would love for you to do that. I’m in Canada. Tell me how to connect with you.
Rhonda
You are in my prayers, Rhonda.
Sending blessings and prayers for a full recovery for you Rhonda!
Thank you so much for all your prayers. I pray over all the needs for the girlfriends here, and I’m glad to do it. You have no idea how much this means to me. This is a tough one for me. I love you all! xoxo
I love hearing what everyone’s saying … it must be good to know you’re being thought of, remembered, and supported to your goal of good health.
Thank you. I can’t stop crying after reading all this.l Thank you! xoxoxoxo
oh Rhonda….I will think of you and include you in my prayers everyday! I hope you feel the love that we are all sending YOU! Sending hugs and some still-warm-from-the-oven banana bread! xoxoxoxox
We carry you in our hearts, Rhonda, and wait expectantly to hear of your returned health ! Like Susan says, people are surviving and thriving all the time!
Love, Marsha
Survive and thrive,that’s been my personal motto ever since my diagnosis!
Rhonda…..am definitely remembering you in my prayers! You are so right…the Lord hears and answers prayer! 🙂 Just to encourage you to ask others for help as others have mentioned…please do!!! We have a next door neighbor who needed help and there is nothing more wonderful than lending a hand. The more specific you are, the better too! Much comfort and peace and hugs to you!!! 🙂
Rhonda,
My prayers are going out for you! We are here for you.
Dear Rhonda…you are in my prayers. This community of SB girlfriends will come alongside you. Keep writing in and let us know how you are so that we may pray for your specific needs. I am sure we will be keeping an eye out for your name/comments.
Charlene, it looks like I fell between the cracks, so to speak. They changed the rules about giving us ladies our annual “female physical” test. Only every 3 years now. So I didn’t get one last year. Had I had it, they probably would have picked this up. The cells spread and got into my lymph nodes in the groin. I have a cat scan for my chest on Mar.7th. They are hoping it hasn’t spread to my chest area. They are going to try radiation and chemo. The cells weren’t a very bad kind to have, but they have not got clear enough margins to do surgery to remove it. God’s Word says that He will heal me, and I’m judging Him faithful to keep His promise. All this prayer is keeping me in a very good place to be able to fight this. Such a blessing!
Rhonda…your faith and confidence in God’s promises will keep you in “a very good place”, indeed! 🙂 Here’s another…”‘For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.'” Jeremiah 29:11.
You are in my prayers…especially on March 7th. Glad to hear that the cell type is “not a very bad kind.” You have received much support in all these comments! This SB girlfriend community is kind, loving, generous, and thoughtful…much like our leader, S.B., herself! Surround yourself with family and friends who support you. If you would like to stay in contact, here is my email [email protected].
Rhonda…I don’t want seem self-serving but my daughter-in-law is being featured on a national Christian radio show today. The title is “Gaining a Hopeful Spirit despite Bad Medical Reports”. You can hear the short radio spot on joniandfriends.org. Though it is not the same medical condition, you both share a confidence and love of the Lord. Her example of faith is extraordinary…if I do say so myself. 🙂
Rhonda D. God is still in the business of performing miracles and I am praying for one for you. Believe it !
Rhonda you are in my prayers and you already know that you are in God’s loving, capable hands. I have had melanoma 20yrs ago, ovarian in ’07, and breast and recurrent ovarian in ’11. It is not pleasant but there is no cancer that isn’t survivable! I am so sorry that this has happened to you but I pray that you will find as I did that there are blessings in it. No, I am not crazy, though it may sound that way. I found that having a folks who were going through the same thing or had been through it to laugh and commiserate with was invaluable and would be happy to share with you. I had two neighbors, one each time, going through it, too (all different cancers) and we were lifesavers for each other.
Rhonda: Sent out a call to add you to our prayer circle-so far thousands of prayers are being made for you to heal.
Treese
Thank you Treese. God bless you!!
~You are in my prayers Rhonda~
Lynn
You are a ROCK Carol. You go girlfriend!!!
MORE PRAYERS, Rhonda — you are surrounded by girlfriends who are ready to reach out to you. Well, actually, we already are because we’ve started praying already. Make sure that you only make room around you for positive people, and you’ll undoubtedly find a favorite nurse or someone in your treatment room who becomes a “go-to” person. My dear friend Judy, who is also a FOSB, cried often with me when I had a just plain crappy day, but now we can sit back and laugh about some of the ridiculous things I did when on pain meds, etc. We truly are a Lucy-Ethel pair!!! One day at a time, friend. Listen with your heart to your supportive FOSB. May God be watching over you — Ethel
Rhonda, You did exactly the right thing. You reached out for support and prayers and I know you will be lifted by the response you have received. My battle was 14 years ago and I made it through with the support of my lovely friends and family and a ton of prayers. Know that we are with you. As someone else stated, “the beginning is the worst”. You are in my prayers.
Rhonda, I carry you in my heart – know the feeling – you will be positively OK. I send you smiles and hugs galore! Keep the faith…..
XXXXOOOO Pat from Paso Robles, CA.
Sending up prayers for you Rhonda. Keep fighting, never let up. God Bless you. Let the strength of this large group of
‘
Sending up prayers for you Rhonda. Keep fighting and never let up. Let the warmth and the strength of the GF’s prayers encourage you and keep you strong. Good bless you.
Rhonda, I am praying for you. I had breast cancer and found it helpful to speak with 2 cousins and others that had been thru it before me. I asked everyone to pray for me, and felt those prayers carrying me thru it. Let people help you on the days you need help. Think positive and look for all the blessings to come your way!
And you did a great job Sandy!
Sending prayers and hugs your way. Been there…good advice to let your family and friends help you through…they need it and you need it. Surround yourself with loving, caring people – and they will bring you through this time. Wrapping my arms around you and sending positive thoughts.
Rhonda I will keep you in my prayers.
Dear Rhonda, I know that all of us will hold you in our hearts and we will be praying for you. God will give you the strength and courage to fight this illness, and miracles do happen. May you find comfort and peace.
Oh, Rhonda! You sweetness! You have touched us all with your good heart! May God watch over you and bring you what you need most..comfort and love. Beautiful prayers will be said for you every day. You, GirlfriendRhonda, are in our hearts. I look forward to hearing good things from you. May your lovely Spirit stay brave and strong!XXXOOO
Rhonda…keeping you close at heart in thought and prayer… just know that you were touched by the beautiful things these wonderful women..our girlfriends, have said….. I was…. and thanks to Susan for creating a place for us to support each other no matter the reason….stay strong..xo
Dear Rhonda,
A big virtual hug for you, girlfriend. We are here and praying for your return to good health! We are a formidable bunch when we put our collective minds to it!!
Chris
Oh Rhonda I was diagnosed with Breast cancer in September of 2012. As many folks have said its the positive attitude and the help support and inspiration of others in this community that helped me get through it. In fact in 2 days I head back to my office, strong and on the road to full recovery. I will think of you and add my prayers for your strength along with al the girlfriends here!
Dear Rhonda,
I will light a candle at church for you.
Stay strong and know your girlfriends on this side of the pond hold you in our prayers.
Rhonda –
Like others, when I read your posting I immediately said a prayer. You will find many blessings throughout the months ahead especially your increased faith as well as well as the love and care of others helping you. I too will keep you in my prayers. All best thoughts for you!
Rhonda, I have added you to my prayer list and will do so in our Life Group at church as well. Praying He gives you the strength and grace to get through this!
Praying for you Rhonda and sending light and love your way xo
Rhonda dear,
I will write your name in my “Susan Branch Girlfriend List” and remember to pray for you. Keep your eyes on God–he is the Great Physician. It is so hard to hear news like that, but please know that you’ve got ALL of us behind you, supporting you, thinking about you, and especially praying for you. I care about you and love you, Girlfriend!
Love,
Linda
((Rhonda, I keep you in my prayers))
Rhonda D., you are in my thoughts and prayers!!
Rhonda you are in my prayers – your strong faith will see you through. Big hug from New Jersey ~ Love, Juliana
Rhonda,
I’m sorry to hear of your news, and I will be praying for you too!
“When I’m worried and I can’t sleep,
I count my blessings instead of sheep,
And I fall asleep
Counting my blessings.”
Count your positivity and courage and faith as one of your greatest blessings!
XO
Erica
HI Susan- can you please come to Lexington , KY? there is a HUGE bookstore there called Joseph-Beth Booksellers…..- that would be a wonderful place for you to come…..
I would love it!@!@!
I wrote that down Kathy, thank you!
Always look forward to and love your blogs!! Thank you!
You are so welcome!
Hi Susan, what a wonderful post!… I sooo want you to come to Utah on your book tour!… I live about 15 miles north of Salt Lake City Utah… and just TODAY my niece Filly started her new job as executive assistant to the director of events at the BIG Marriott Hotel in downtown Salt Lake City!… she will be doing the scheduling for all of the meetings, speakers, conventions, etc…. they have huge rooms for such events… I can’t wait to tell her about this!… and they have the most fabulous food and TEA!… of course, today is just her first day, she may not want to spring this on them right away, but then again, she is good at her job and a go~getter who likes to get things done… oooh, how I wish it would work out so you could come here… I know the place would be booked with Susan Branch lovers!… I will certainly keep you posted!… the Queen Mary would be such a fun place to start your tour… I went there years ago with my family and was in total awe… and National Geographic did a special some years ago about the ghost of a little girl who is supposed to haunt the old ship… a little neighbor girl here was touring the ship with her family and was asked to play the part of the ghost girl in it!.. . kinda exciting!… you know, I think the people at the Queen Mary should pay YOU to have your tea there!… and be honored that you would choose them as your first stop!… I wish I could be your “kitty sitter” for you… I know you must miss them so much when you travel!… and I am sure they miss their mama and daddy… that is too cute about Jack and the rubber bands… our kitty TC, who is now in kitty Heaven, used to have a little stuffed fishy that he carried everywhere… it got so tattered it didn’t even look like a fishy anymore… when Jack or I were in a bathroom with the door closed, all of a sudden, a little white paw would slip under the door and push his fishy in!… too cute!… I miss him!… love your Snowdrops… glad Spring is on it’s way!!! … well, I have almost written a book today… sending lots of love your way… love that little pic of you with your darling daddy!… xoxo… Julie Marie PS Got the Hedgehog and Squirrel Emma Cups!… thanks for your quick shipping!
What a great life you have! Wouldn’t it be great for all of the girlfriends to have tea on the Queen Mary. My mother-in-law kept a brochure of the Queen Mary that she picked up at the 1939 World’s Fair. I have it posted at http://madelinesmemories-ann.blogspot.com/2010/05/queen-mary-brochure-worlds-fair.html. I’ll be looking around the Baltimore/DC area to see what fun venue you could visit.
Susan, What a lovely idea you had about the Queen Mary. It is fun to dream! When our three boys were little and we took them to Disneyland, we went to the Queen Mary, too. It was such a treat to be on board and imagine what it was like to sail on that grand ship. Wherever you have the signings, you and “our” book will transport everyone to England. I hope that you come to the Pacific Northwest! Thank you for including us in your life and keeping us posted about the book. Hope the next storm spares you and those lovely snowdrops. Ours are blooming now, too.
Hi Susan,
I can’t wait for your book to arrive! I hope you can stop by Minnesota or Wisconsin! Thanks! 🙂
Hi Susan!
Cannot wait for the book to come out and to have you come to SoCal!!
Hornblower cruises was mentioned for San Diego. There is also a Hornblower cruise venue in Newport Beach.
There is a newish bookstore in Laguna Beach called Laguna Beach Books. They have a website. If you want phone number, I can provide that.
There is a lovely place in Corona del Mar called Sherman Library and Gardens, Their website says that they can accommodate up to 200 people with tents set up outdoors.
There is a tea house in Tustin called The McCharles House. Not sure how many they can accommodate.
Other venues:
The Mission Inn in Riverside
Huntington Rose Garden tea room
Two a Tea in Glendale
Ritz Carlton in Laguna Niguel ( can even be done outdoors)
Love seeing all those flowers peeping up out of the snow. When I was young we lived on the East Coast and I always was delighted to see the crocuses coming up. Here in SoCal the daffodils are always the first to come up and THEN the snow drops!
Hello Susan! Oh, Fort Wayne Indiana has your name all over it … we have some great bookstores, a Memorial Coliseum, etc. that would welcome you. We also are the home of Vera Bradley (purses) etc. And need I mention we have Culver’s too. (Remember the “Butter Burger”?) Many girlfriends would come to see you – I would be at the top of the list. : ) If I had a bigger yard, I would say we could have it at my place.
Feels like spring here, too, in Minnesota but I think south of us they are getting a lot of snow and wintery weather…I think Mother Nature is just lulling us into a false sense of security and thoughts that spring is here and then we will get a nice bit snowstorm! 🙂 From reading your posting above, it sort of sounds like you are planning on doing signings on the West coast and the East coast but missing the Midwest. Guess we in the Midwest will all be hoping you do another “give away” of signed books… 🙁
Whoops–meant “big” snowstorm… 🙂
SO many girlfriends are starting to see flowers already ….and here I am, getting a little jazzed up …. because, I’m starting to see the black of my driveway again!!! Pat, did you hear……22 days out of the 28 days in February were cloudy? But, you know, the snow really does make it seem brighter outside ….I still had to squint a lot this month! Sending You a handful of 🙂 Daffodils aka sunshine!!!
Oh dear Pat! I was thinking…..it sounds like Susan may be this way maybe Novemberish? ….and, well…..You and Norm know where all the proper Lutefisk Dinners are in Minnesota!!! You must admit…..Lefse really does go with anything!!! Tea, lefse and lutefisk! …pip pip and uff-da…yah?!!
Ummmm….somehow the idea of tea, scones, jam, and Devonshire cream mixed with lutefisk…I just can’t get my mind around it. And lefse, well, …. 🙂
We have a darling historic general store that would make the most marvelous tea party site. It is near Va. Tech; it is the Draper Mercantile! Bike rentals, music, cabins, hiking, history AND antiques!! Debbie would be a wonderful hostess!!
Oh Susan! We must all put on our thinking caps!!! A Group Book Signing… How FUN that would be. The QM would have been so fabulous. Maybe we could all take the QMII to England with A Fine Romance in our little hands, touring the countryside retracing your steps… LOL!
I can’t begin to imagine your inner excitement right now… tired excited overwhelmed exuberance all rolled up into one! You’re about to give birth! We are CELEBRATING with you!
Sending LOTS of xoxo and an early Happy Birthday wish to your Dad.
Georgie from NJ
Hi Susan,
If you are interested, Pacific Quilt International Festival is the middle of October in Santa Clara, CA near San Jose. It would be wonderful to see you there!! It draws thousands of people, many I’m sure, who would want to buy your book.
Oh!!! Big huge smile and laughter because…. Jack’s face!!! How cute and funny – what an expression! and he looks like he’s about to actually say something! Priceless!!! 🙂 I must have added at least a month to my life from laughing at that!! 🙂
and, just aside… we used to say that my Grandfather had built half of San Luis Obispo – he was a carpenter who set up shop in the thirties. But since, he’s passed away, there’s been such a boom in that beautiful town. I grew up in Pasadena but, of course, we traveled up North every special chance we could. I love it there SO much – it has all the feelings of special holidays and Grandma and Grandpa’s house and fog and just… magic! It has the magic of my imaginatively impressionable youth on it! happy sigh. 🙂
I LOVE that you took a picture of all those smiling faces looking up at you before you gave the talk. A unique view and how fun and funny!!! =] Suddenly, I’m thinking of Lily Pons (an old timey opera singer) who said, “I love my audience and they love me!”
and there’s nothing so soothing as a lovely view out of a window in one’s own home!!!!!!! Honestly, one of my favorite things in life, actually. 🙂 I just love that you thought to share your view with us!
But, mostly, thank you, this morning for, once again, reminding me how fun the creative process is. I bite my nails with my photos – I want to zap people with a wonderful feeling when they see what I’m sharing in that small frame. The way that you feel so happy – have such an attitude of gratefulness and joy that you could write your book and share… it means a lot to me.
Oh, and I’m going to go on…. (eep!) There’s a quote from Andy Warhol that goes something like… Make art and while other people are deciding if they like it and what they think of it – make more art.
and, btw, that reminds me…. I’ve meant to ask…. but was shy… because it really must have been a cosmic coincidence???!!!! A woman named Susan Branch left a comment on my blog about my desire to have my images be hospitable like your creative output is – ‘from the heart of the home’. But that couldn’t have been you for real? (oh, boy, wow! Do I feel silly, right now! :P)
Anyhoo! What really matters is that I think you need to do a book signing in Vermont!!! 🙂 Yup!
Best wishes to you and wings on your feet and heart!!!
Love from the heart of our home in Vermont!
Katy Noelle xxo
Will you be anywhere in the Chicago area? I hope so – just love your books and drawings. And guess what, Susan! Yesterday we made reservations to visit your little corner of the world – we are coming to Martha’s Vineyard in May! I’m so excited – we’ll get to see some of those lovely places you write about. I can hardly wait!!!
Come south! Texas is wonderful in the fall! Still warm but not as humid! Houston, San Antonio, Austin, or even cute little Fredericksburg out in the hill country! I’ve already ordered my book! Can’t wait til it gets here!
Susan, oh how I wish you could come to Cleveland! It would be so fun to meet you in person. I wish I knew of a great place around here.
Have a wonderful day!
We are excited to see your new book! We’ve also loved all of the updates along the way. We would LOVE to see you in Oregon! Of course, Portland is the obvious choice because it’s big and has Powell’s, but I think you’d have a lovely time in Ashland which is just three hours south of us here in Eugene. It’s a charming town, home of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and has perfect shops – more than one of which would surely LOVE to host a book signing by YOU!
If that doesn’t work, California’s not THAT far away I hardly need and excuse to visit as it’s one of my very favorite places – especially the area that you are heading to. Love the coast, Steinbeck country and, really, just about everything on Hwys. 1 and 101 from San Francisco to LA. Regardless, we hope to get to mee you in person!
All the best!
The wheels are turning and plans are being made!!! Makes it all seem real! Yay! At one time you talked about The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Or, for the Midwest, how about Door County? Stunning in Autumn. xo
Oh Susan…I LOVE that you had such a wonderful idea as a tea party on the Queen Mary!! Thank you so much for trying! We are looking forward to seeing you in California. I will keep an eye out for a unique venue.
Maybe the Montage in Laguna Beach? There is a pretty restaurant on the property that overlooks the ocean. It is often used for events such as wedding receptions, etc. I am sure they could put together a lovely tea…and the view is unforgettable!
Here is the link to the resort: montagelagunabeach.com/
Here is the link to the restaurant: studiolagunabeach.com/
The Beachcomber in Crystal Cove in Newport is quaint and casual:
thebeachcombercafe.com/_crystalcove/index.aspx
The Sherman Library and Gardens in Corona Del Mar is pretty:
slgardens.org/default.asp
OR! One of my favorite restaurants…The Olde Ship! It is a cute English Pub with a great menu! They could certainly put together a tea (their toffee pudding is SO good!): theoldeship.com/santa_ana.html
Whatever you choose Susan, I know it will be perfect!!
Hugs,
Christy
PS…I saw an article about Rose Tree Cottage (Pasadena) in Victoria magazine years ago. While I haven’t been (yet!), it seems like it would be a lovely location for your book signing…
rosetreecottage.com/RTC-Website-2011-V004/Welcome.html 🙂
How ’bout the Pittsburgh Home & Garden Show? Unfortunately, it’s next week – too soon for your book! How ’bout my backyard? Hahaha – I can definitely gather lots ‘o girlfriends and there would be tea 🙂
Awwww….your Daddy will be 90…how wonderful! You are so lucky to still have him!
Jackie boy’s whiskers just crack me up! How long they are!! My doggie burrows her treats all through the house and remembers where each and everyone of them are! Animals are amazing 🙂 Thanks as always for the blogosphere xxoo
Here’s hoping you come to Connecticut or somewhere close! I will be there with my best friend, her 2 daughters and my 2 daughters. Our girls are fans too because we love everything Susan Branch and it just kind of spilled over to our daughters 🙂
We will find you, wherever you come in New England. I sense a road trip and a fun filled day in my future 😉
Oh, and I just watched season 1 of Downton Abbey (because of you). Not only did I love it, but my husband and 22 year old son are hooked too. We had a perfect weekend, watching the entire first season by a warm wonderful fire. Now I want to go to England -your blog has opened my eyes to all things British. I cannot wait to get your new book. Thank you for being you 🙂
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASSSSEEEE COME TO SEATTLE! It would just make my YEAR ! Or even Portland and I could make the drive there 🙂
There are some BEAUTIFUL places here in the Pacific Northwest…and one of the lovliest is right here on my island. The Bloedel Reserve. It is a manor house and the most beautiful gardens anywhere….Maybe there would be a possibility there for a book signing….I don’t know costs, or what their event schedule looks like at this time…but it is truly LOVELY and would suit “A Fine Romance” …….
Maybe worth looking into and it would be so wonderful to have you come to this area of the country. Have you ever been? Please consider……………….and do a little internet looking!!!!! xo
Fantastic photos and post ! I love seeing photos of you at your book signings so exciting . I was wondering if any of your books are or to be sold in Canada in our big book store Chapters ? Thanks for all you do ! Have a wonderful day !
Hi Sue,
Yeah – one of times I get to be in the right place at the right time! Simi Valley is a beautiful 2.5 hour drive from SLO and I have a great friend who is always up for a Susan Branch excursion! We used to have at least yearly pilgrimages to your little Arroyo Grande store. Can’t wait to get a least one visit scheduled in the fall!
XO, Sue from Simi
Hi Susan! Any chance you could ever come to Maine for a book signing? It would be so awesome to meet you. Always love your blogs. Helps to make my day!
Okay…….it HAS to be the Queen Mary. Come on now…..it’s the ONLY place for your book signing. There is about 2000 girlfriends i’ve noticed. If we all sent in $4 that would pay for the $7000 AND $1000 for the tea! (i’m serious). Let’s do it baby!!! Set up the fund and by the time the book is ready we’ll have enough. I bet we could do it fast enough to book it soon. What do you think???
Your Mommy is soooo a d o r a b l e..I loved seeing a picture of her…she must be so proud of you !
Hmmmm, September in CA. Is there anywhere outside where you could launch your book with the original Queen Mary in the background? A park nearby? Maybe you could hire someone to cater an outside tea? And Jack is brilliant . . . and crazy . . . and just adorable!
Thank you for sharing your birds. They are fantastic! Jack is a love! You are blessed.
Vroman’s, of course, is my BIG vote. But! Charlie & I will be at Judy’s show in November, so we will see you there, too! I am so excited that your book is in the home stretch!!! It’s like waiting to get back to Disneyland……I just can’t wait!
Now, here’s a thought…we could do a brown-bag/picnic gathering in the back yard of the studio….blankets and picnic baskets, pink lemonade and cake, FOSB and your new book! Perfect for a warm, autumn day. Wouldn’t that be fun?! xo peg
Love, love, love your blog. Have forwarded some of them to my lovely granddaughter who is a wedding photographer and will be shooting a wedding in the UK this summer. She loves you, too!
Hi Susan,
When I’m missing anything small (like your bands) I check under the frig and the stove. My cats bat them around until they slide under. Big fun!
In Bakersfield CA (central California) we have a locally owned bookstore called Russo’s. It’s a wonderful place and I love that a family owns it.
My heart is pounding (no kidding) with excitement at the thought of attending your book signing. I just went to a book signing in York, PA with Ina Garten. I would have liked to have been able to say more to her than, “when you serve olives with pits where do you put the pits?” Well, I just can’t imagine watching you sign your book for me (on pre-order), I feel like a little kid again, too excited to sit still.
Arizona in August?! Well, ok, because it’s your daddy:) I live in Scottsdale and August here is, uhhh, warm. Would so love to see you here for a book signing and talk somewhere. Hmmm, where?
Susan – Susan – Susan!!!!!!! Please contact Wegman’s, the most fabulous supermarket in the USA (perhaps the world!). They are huge enough to accommodate large crowds, I met Nora Roberts there. Also Barnes & Noble, please – please – please try to do one in NY/NJ/PA. So many folks here would love to meet you. We have a large B&N here on Staten Island 😉 What a fabulous opportunity it would be. xo
Please, please come to Dallas, Texas!!!! Please!!!
I am soooo excited about seeing you in SLO this year!! Yay!
Jack and the ponytail bands – how hilarious!!! OMGoodness!! As usual, the expression on Jack’s face is priceless!!
We have 5 inside cats and they love the little toy mice. They have to be just the right kind: soft bodies and a tail. Over the past couple of years I must have bought at least 30 or 40 of those things, and at the present time I can only find about 10!! Where the rest are, I have no idea! I look under everything!!! It’s great!! 😀
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
Well, sadly, I don’t have to hope to see you at a bookstore near me for a signing. I simply remain grateful that I have been able to pre~order an international delivery 😀 . . but I am so hippy hoppy happy for all the Girlfriends who will meet you on your big signing tour! Don’t forget to wave to me Across The Pond ♥ I’ll be the one curled up in the comfy arm chair with a ‘certain book’ on my lap . .
Popped in earlier and was rewarded with the addition Downton link in your last post, and I’ve shared that on a Facebook group to which I belong (of Bliss Victoria readers who are avid Downton fans) . . now I’m back with tea and a large slice of the Victoria sponge I made this morning . .
So moved by this post on many levels . . you have such positive energy in all your signing photos and look so happy meeting Girlfriends and fans . . the excitement that is starting to build for everyone. Then, there is your lovely Dad, 90 years young this year . . treasure him (I know you do) for I miss mine so deeply I tell everyone to tell their Daddy how much they are loved and treasured, for the day might come when you can no longer say so in person. We passed through San Louis Obispo with my lovely Dad on his Great Big American Adventure nearly thirty years ago . . where does the time go? Many happy memories now . .
. . and looking forward to the Fall . . always my favourite time of year, but this year it will be extra special as we will be sharing your special memories of your trip to Beatrix Potter land . .
Isn’t it wonderful to have the “power” of the i-net and your blog to ask questions, suggestions, advice? There are sure to be fabulous folks giving you ideas that you’ll follow through to completion and make memorable moments for everyone. I hate the Queen Mary is so expensive but guess it takes a lot of $$$ to keep her even in dry dock.
Tucking Rhonda in prayer…
It’s been the best, changed everything, I can’t say how much I really love it.
Your entry today is just lovely and has me dreaming of books and spring and travel … of pets and writing too. OT, when I leave a comment and it might be the 556th comment or some such high number, is there a way of seeing if anyone responds to it without scrolling all 555 remarks before it? Just wondering!
Maybe someone else can reply to this and tell you, I’m not sure! There has to be a way!
I have jotted down the date and time that I wrote so that I just have to find that place. It does take time though, if a bagillione people have commented.
If I leave a comment I write down the date and TIME. If you want to check later to see if anyone replied to your comment it isn’t so difficult to scroll quickly to the date/time of your comment:) I keep a stack of little post-it notes by my computer.
See? Smart.
Good idea. That is still a slow way but it isn’t the slowest way of checking all names as you scroll so thanks for the tip.
Susan, I got so excited when I read your idea of going to the Queen Mary because I live in Long Beach! I’ve only been here for 3 years but haven’t been there yet. Maybe, maybe, maybe someone here has connections. I was wondering, though, will the pre-ordered A Fine Romance books arrive in the mail in time for signings in September?
To Rhonda D, I’ll be saying some prayers for you. I’m sure others here will do the same. May God give you strength and peace of mind and above all, healing !
We won’t go on any signings until everyone has their book!
Oh Susan I live in Long Beach and was so delighted at the thought of the Queen Mary. In fact I was married in the chapel there 9 yrs ago and it was the sweetest and perfect setting for a small family wedding. Hmm…maybe if we all call and write them again !
Lucky you to be married in such a gorgeous special memorable place!
My daughter Carrie and I will be in the line at the Madonna Inn FOR SURE!
SLO is not so far away, a great excuse for Mom and Daughter to plan an
overniter together, we are SO excited! so, dear Susan, greetings from SUNNY AND OH SO WARMISH Goleta and Thousand Oaks — see you soon!
So excited for your book!!! *bounces* If you can get anywhere near Washington DC I’ll be there! It’s a not so far drive from West Virginia! *g* Love the pictures, music, and I am bouncing in my chair while reading!!!!! Have a blessed week!
Oh, yes! Please come South! Here in Nashville, Tennessee we have the delightful Parnassus Books, owned by author Ann Patchett and then in Oxford, Mississippi, we have the world famous Square Books, where Richard has a visiting author almost once a week. I would happily travel to either one to see you and bring a bus full!
xx, Julie
Susan,
I hope you can come to Kansas City–Missouri or Kansas. I don’t have any idea about an event you could join here. I would just love to have a chance to meet you here in the lovely mid-west. Right now we have almost 20 inches of snow so now is not a good time; however, the fall would be the perfect time to visit!
Rainy Day Books is in the KC area and they do lots of author visits. That might be a perfect mid-west FOSB site.
I’ve never been there but favorite cousin Judy introduced me to their store and I follow them on-line. Sounds like a darling place and so nice on the phone. Just an FYI.
Oh my goodness — that bookstore is just up the street from my daughter’s in Fairway, KS. It is so quaint, as most independents are. I visit their marvelous children’s dept everytime I’m in town. Small world!
** Hope you are safe and sound during this second blast in a week!
You will love having tea on the Queen Mary. Our DBE (Daughters of the British Empire) Thousand Oaks Chapter enjoyed a wonderful mid-day tea on the Queen Mary in December 2012 and we all agreed it was one of the best teas ever. The food was fresh, beautifully presented, delicious, great variety and lots of pots of steaming hot tea!! After the tea we went through the Princess Diana Exhibit which was wonderful. My 91 year old mother joined us and everyone on the ship is amazing. My mom was tired and I was able to use a wheel chair to finish touring the exhibit. Parking Valet was a dream as many of our DBE ladies are a bit older. Everyone in the Queen Mary staff is wonderful to work with for reservations. I would be happy to contact them on your behalf and pass along the information to you. Can’t wait for your book to come out. I’ll be ordering several soon. All the best, Janine P.S. I met you at Road to CA in 2009 and you autographed a cookbook for our daughter’s bridal shower. I look forward to your visit to California and tea on the Queen Mary would be perfect.
I was all dressed and ready with my Downton hat when you mentioned the Queen Mary even though I would have to travel from Oklahoma to get there….but I agree…an arm and a leg and maybe a kidney! That’s ok. If you come somewhere near Oklahoma, I’ll find the line and meet a few new friends! Can’t wait. It will be lovely no matter where!
Oh Susan we would love to have you somewhere in western Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh would be great. But there is also, Butler, Johnstown, Erie or Ebensburg. I will do some research and see what I can come up with for November right.
I thoroughly enjoyed today’s writing! I do hope I will live close enough to come to one of your book signings on the East Coast…I loved Jack’s picture, such an innocent surprised look, lol! Special prayers go out to Rhonda, you have a lot of friends praying for you!
Although not in my neck of the woods, I’m betting that the Longaberger Homestead, in Frezeysburg (sp.?) Ohio, outside of Columbus, would love to host a tea/book signing for you! It’s a charming locale and even non-basket lovers/collectors would enjoy the area. There’s even golf to keep the husbands busy. On the Cape, there’s a great tea shop/art gallery on Rte. 6A, in Dennis, Bonsai Gallery – if it was warm weather, you could do the tea on the back lawns, where they have weddings. And, if you hopped one state over might I suggest the Ocean House in historic Watch Hill, Rhode Island, with the Atlantic pressing up against the hotel windows, the view can’t be beat. Here’s hoping there’s a wonderful event within driving distance for me!
I used to tell my children, “Work first, then play”. We’d hurry to finish all our work, then go and play hard.
Sounds like you’ll be doing the same thing!
Work first, then play.
That is exactly right!
Hi Susan, I hope you have a few book signings in New England next fall. I hope to get to meet you. I talked with you once when you were on QVC and it was fun! Can’t wait to have the book!!!
It’s raining here in WPA & I opened your Blog (which is just divine) & the snowdrops were lovely…so hopeful for Spring. And all your info on past book signings-what fun! If you could come to the Pittsburgh area it would be great! We have a new large Barnes & Noble southwest of the city & I tea-shop south; I will investigate if you think this area possible on your return trip. Thanks for your inspirational everything. keep it comin’
Please, pretty please, come to Rainy Day Books (located in Fairway, KS–in the Kansas City area)! They have great author events throughout the year. We’d love to have you here!
Would love to see you in South Florida!!!!!
Ohhhh sooooo much excitement!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you figure away to come back to the east coast in October, the Country Living Fair will be in Atlanta, that would be fun! Or there is a great liitle book store in Carrollton GA…. Just please what ever you do, come to Georgia!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🙂
If only you could come over here and do a book signing in England, I would love that. Can’t wait until Autumn to get your book, it’s so lovely to read about where I live from a different perspective. Therese,x
Susan,
Susan, Colorado is beautiful in the fall…and we’d love to see one of your book signings here! Downtown Denver has a great book store…The Tattered Cover… http://www.thetatteredcover.com located in historic LoDo in the Morey Mercantile Bldg. Also downtown, The Brown Palace Hotel is filled with history and serves tea…;-) There are a number of other historic venues available, too. Or, how about a patio with a view of the Front Range…at The Ranch Country Club, http://www.theranchcc.com, on the northern edge of the city? It would be wonderful to host you in Denver!
Congratulations on your book!
There’s a beautiful little town here in Northern California called Sutter Creek. I have had high tea at a little tea shop there twice!. It was wonderful. It isn’t very large-they used to be located in an old Victorian home but moved-just very cute.
Also, my daughter’s cat hides the hair thinkgys (her term for ponytail holders) under throw rugs!
Oh, please come to Minneapolis. I wasn’t able to see you the last time you were here. If you come when the weather is nice (a couple weeks in May or June, ha!) you could be at the bandshell at Lake Harriet. We could all play at the lake! When you go west, you could schedule a layover in Minneapolis and I will meet you at the airport and take Jack and Girl to stay at my house. We would have so much fun. Girl and my Lucy could snooze together on the Big Bed and Jack and I will play fetch with my daughter’s ponies (hair bands). When I started to read your plan to party on the Queen Mary, it sounded like so much fun that I was already planning how I would get out there! Thank you for your fun posts and wonderful photos and artwork!
I found the candle shop in Washington PA -countrycandlesonline.com & the sister site, The Candlelight Room, can be accessed thru this site, where an event could take place. Check it out. Let me know if your are interested & I will call.
I’m the President of the Friends Group @ our local library; perhaps we could help arrange a signing here???
Hi Sue!
I sure hope you are planning a So. CA stop. My Mom & I (and your Mom too!) will be there to see you!
Happy Travels,
Sharon
Hi Sharon! I’m definitely going to work something out near my mom! I heard you were just down at your mom’s — I asked my mom to say hello to you! Hope all is well!
This is one get-together I’ll be able to attend,so I hope I don’t miss all the info. once it’s decided.I live in Rancho Cucamonga near Victoria Gardens .There are several big venues near here also-Citizens Bank Arena and Ontario Convention Center. Just think of the lovely time you could have shopping in the beautiful Victoria Gardens shopping district. Good luck in your planning.
Love the little Snowdrops. They are such cute little things and look rather odd with the snow on top of them, like one or the other shouldn’t be there. But there they are. I guess I also like them because the look like Lily of the Valley which I adore. As always Jack is so cute. I’ve had cats that picked something and had a hiddy place for those toys. Some people thing animals are dumb, but sometimes it’s people who are dumb!! Drives me crazy. I can tell me dog something and he knows what I am talking about. Say the word walk and he goes crazy! You can ask him if he wants his supper and he heads for the kitchen. He’s sick now and not doing much and I’m so worried. Plus my daughter is having a hard time arranging to get her dog out of Okinawa, no airline will fly her because she is an English Bulldog. They’ll fly Frenchies, or Bulldogs or even Pugs who all have trouble breathing sometimes. It’s not hot anywhere she will fly to, Okinawa to Tokyo to DC. She doesn’t and hasn’t had any of those kinds of problems. So her vets who she worked with are trying to do all they can. Please say a prayer she doesn’t have to leave her behind!! There are so other avenues but who knows. I’m so sad and upset about them both. Sorry to go on here. Hug Jack for me and say a pray for our pups.
Maybe the Queen Mary is nearby, she takes doggies. So sorry.
I am so looking forward to you coming to California!! Queen Mary sounded like a great idea, sorry it can’t work YET. We wil see you somewhere out here!!!
I do so love your blog and books!
Just had to thank you for the picture of your Mom,she is so slim & trim,and looks
Much younger than her age—you’ve got great genes . In some of your books you tell
About your childhood and I couldn’t help but fall in love with her! Ilove how she made ordinary things special.
She really did!
When you travel cross country by train, do you stop in Denver? They have a wonderful bookstore called The Tattered Cover which does many book signings. The famous Brown Palace Hotel does wonderful teas, and I wonder if they couldn’t do a big tea/book signing there? Their teas are usually in their gorgeous lobby, but they also have ballrooms that could probably be used instead.
We are definitely going to call them!
My friends and I went to your signing of the “Autumn” book many years ago at the Madonna Inn and discovered that the best place to wait for the line to get shorter is in the bar because…that is just what we did, and that is where we met the delightful Joe. (We recognized him from pictures in your books.) He couldn’t have been nicer…took a picture of the three of us with your large poster, posed with us in pictures, and even checked the men’s restroom to make sure it was empty so we could check it out. (It is really something!) Then we met you and you signed our books, and he again took a picture of us with you. So much fun! Can’t wait for your new book, and am looking forward to seeing you on the west coast in the fall. xoxo
I think I remember him telling about meeting you in the bar! Perfect spot to wait!
Dear Susan,
I am really excited now, I told you I would get back to you. Well, Bernadette and Bob are really excited to have you at their store in Newburyport, MA. for a book signing !!!! It is a charming little store with all things British inside and we will have a tea party all day or how ever long the signing. They are sweet lovely people, with lovely worker bees around them. I’m not sure how to go from here. I did tell them before Christmas because you were traveling across the country before that. I have their email address for you and I can call Sheri and give it to her. TTFN Love and Blessings, Wendy-Lou ox
Kathy is right, we have a great bookstore in Lexington, Ky, called Joseph-Beth, it would be perfect for a book signing, it’s very big. Enjoyed your blog today as usual, and am looking forward to having the book in my hand to visit all the wonderful places you will describe. I have my three daughters tuned into being Susan Branch followers, we all adore you. M. Ray, inchester, Ky
Winchester, Ky…..sorry for the error
It would be wonderful if you could find your way to Portland, OR.
Can we entice you with all the great restaurants in town?
There! I feel happy again…sometimes motherhood can be wearying, even tho’ it’s my very favorite occupation right now. But she’s having her nap now and I took my chance to check your blog. Thank-you for the reminder to take time for the little things..Just what I needed!
The views out your windows onto Martha’s Vineyard are beautiful and make me lonesome for New England. and …I can’t wait to see my copy of your book!
Hello Susan, now comes the grunt work of writing your book finding all the venues to meet and greet your fans. I’m sure your pre-sale has been positive and that is half the battle as an author, now meeting people and offering your book to those who are not aware of your blog is the next step. Indianapolis has a wonderful Convention Center and Downtown Venue afterall we did host the 2012 Super Bowl and got rave reviews. hint hint I agree that the quaint bookstores have the right ambience; but, probably not the proper space. I think coming to the girlfriends was a very smart decision, and you will be getting offers galore and then you will have to decide just where you want to go and visit. Best of Luck!!!! I have had daffodils peeking out since the end of January here and in the backyard some have the blooms and look like they could open anyday now?? If I remember right last year all the Spring flowers were bloomed and gone by the end of March. I guess we just enjoy them whenever they show up, I was out yesterday and saw a bag of gladiolus (80) and thought what a job that would be to plant, and I do not have spacing for that many….I thought of you and Dawn and want to find a place with individual bins and pick maybe 10 and plant them. I do realize when they are open like that your chance of getting the colors you want are 50/50….I saw the most adorable little fella one year taking them and putting them all in different bins and just had to smile to myself thinking what a surprise it will be when they bloom for the unsuspecting people who bought one color and end up with another. I think his Mother was horrified when she saw what he was doing and I looked away so she wouldn’t know I saw what her precious child had done!!! I wouldn’t be disappointed I can’t imagine not enjoying all the colors.
That is something that drives me crazy, thinking I’m planting peachy pink and getting hot red, and now I know why it happens! 🙂
Hi Deborah! 80 bulbs? You could be Miss Rumphius…the Lupine Lady! Favorite favorite book around here! I have to laugh at our first ever Gladiolus…and my CORN! I left the cornstalk be…and still see the tips peeking out of the backyard snowbank. I still say, “HI!” to You and Susan everytime I look out my kitchen window! Wonder what my “green thumb” will bring about this year? 😉
Oh, LOL!!! xxo
That…is too funny!!! I have moved so many times, that most Springs have been a true adventure. I never know what will pop up with my new friends the squirrels. One year they stole the sea shells I use to cover the soil in my pots!
This is my second Try…lets see if i can get this going…;[
A long time ago, on a foggy day, i got lost on the Long beach docks…my hair stood on end when The Queen appeared through the mist.. i had forgotten she was there.
Too bad someone can’t give the Queen the Vision of what a Wonderful promotion it would be for the “Brand” to host a tea and book signing with you…Since her sister ship figured quite prominantly in your lovely tour to England. Seems to me it would be a Win-Win…particularly in this economy. How many People followed you all the way there and back again?? Seems like thousands & More… or am i delusional.
Will you be doing a signing in Arizona? It IS the home of the LONDON Bridge!
Lake Havasu to be exact. The poor little English Village is a bit defunct now and taken over by the Nekked as a Jay-bird set. But there is a resort/hotel still on the premises. It’s more like you’ll find beer-bongs and Pasties :(not past-R-ies 🙁 now days though…so i don’t know how That would fit in. When we first went there we were disapointed and taken aback by all that. They have a Ferry that takes you across the lake to the Casino..if you find you’re missing your Ferry ride!]
Might not hurt to talk to the resort there…perhaps they can come up with a less wild venue … i bet there’s a group or two who might want to get in on the fun… bring back some of the flavor of the ‘good old days’.
The Bridge is still awesome…You Must get a picture of yourselves there to round out your whole mission!
Looking forward to knowing your itinerary.
Thank you Kare! Love your vision of the Queen!
I’d love to arrange something in Annapolis, Maryland as part of your East Coast tour. I’ll get on it and see what options we might have. It would be such a treat for so many !
What a ray of sunshine your letter to us girlfriends is on this cold, gray, rainy day in Oklahoma!! Would love it if you could come to Tulsa (Large Barnes and Nobles) or to Oklahoma City for a book signing. I cannot wait for “A Fine Romance” and a chance to meet you in person. xoxoxo Sherry
P. S. Love and healing prayers to Rhonda. God does care for you!
We would LOVE to have you come to Shipshewana, IN in the heart of Amish Country. There is a large Amish style restaurant called The Blue Gate that also has a theater that would be able to accomodate you. Give it a thought–I’ll go to bat for the whole project. I own a small coffee shop but it is not large enough to accomodate your crowd of admirers. I hope you come to a town close enough to me that I can attend one of your signings though–can’t wait!
Come to Nevada City, California. We’re a small town but you have lots of girlfriends here!! We love you so much! Just a thought. Maybe if you come somewhere near Sacramento I will come see you there if Nevada City is out of the way.
Thank you so much.
Melissa
I’m pretty sure we will be in Sacramento!
Hooray! Can’t wait for a date!!