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! ♥
Hey Girlfriends who live in the San Diego – maybe as a group we can come up with something for Susan in our area. If you want to contact me, my e-mail is [email protected] and we can put out minds together. Hope to hear from you.
I sent you email too, Linda. I’m attaching a comment from Penney in San Diego that I also found. I’ll also reply with your posting to Penney’s comment reply. Let’s get together! Let’s do this!!!
I am SOOO excited you are trying to set up a Book signing in southern CA in Sept!!! If Queen Mary / Long Beach or Pasadena don’t work out; there might be a possibility here in the San Diego area. The San Diego Quilt Guild holds its annual Quilt Show in September each year (they have speakers and LOTS of room) at the Convention Center (it’s right on the bay with lots of boats moored near it. Contact info: facebook.com/SanDiegoQuiltShow; or their own website (being updated at the moment) sandiegoquiltshow.com/ Also Hornblower Cruises does afternoon and evening cruises around San Diego Bay – they have a restaurant on board and you can book very large parties and have lunch, dinner or Brunch on Sundays – here is their website hornblower.com/
Three of us from San Diego are now in communication and hopefully we can be helpful to Susan.
XOXO!
My original post made yesterday has disappeared 🙁 . . good job I keep a copy as my own backup, so I’ll try again!
Sadly, being in the UK I know I won’t 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 . .
sorry to everyone if this is showing up twice, I’ve searched and searched and can’t find the original. computers, eh?
Great Big American Adventure sounds like a great movie title!!!
So many wonderful suggestions from the girlfriends. Turned into a great list of places to visit as well! My suggestion is the beautiful Descanso Gardens in La Canada Flintridge (near Pasadena, CA). The train stop in Glendale is not far away. They have a caterer who does tea parties. Although a full set up for a wedding is several thousand, I’ll bet setting up a signing table in the charming Van de Kamp hall would not be so much. And the gardens are the best. There is a wonderful bookstore close by, Flintridge Books, who may want to sponser as well. Julie Andrews was just there and charmed us all, but they only have about 250 at their store book signings. Not enough room for us all!
wonderful suggestion! Descanso Gardens would be a wonderful place for a book signing. There’s plenty of room, if not inside, outside on some of the lawns. Sandy from Chihuahua Flats.
I wrote that down Sondra!
I wrote that down Sondra!
Susan,
Well, I must admit, this New England weather is starting to get me a bit cranky! I am aching for the season to change and the glorious ones ahead!
One of these days, I hope my schedule and your book signing engagements collide! I have been “following” you forever – you’re one of my favorite people in this whole wide world! Meeting you is on my bucket list! It WILL happen! 🙂
Hi Susan! Wonderful post! Loved the pictures of your past book signings and those of your winter wonderland and Jack. I don’t know if you checked with the large hotels located across the bay from the Queen Mary? There is the Hyatt Regency Long Beach, Renaissance Long Beach Hotel (Marriot), Hotel Maya (Doubletree/Hilton), and of course the Long Beach Convention Center. The hotels are very large and could accommodate a very large group of girlfriends for your book signing. Plus for anyone coming from out of town, they could stay at any of these hotels, go to your book signing, and visit the Queen Mary! What a wonderful vacation! Win, win! ♥
hi susan! i have a question for you, but first…PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, COME TO WASHINGTON DC, MARYLAND, OR NORTHERN VIRGINIA TO DO A BOOK SIGNING! I HAVE BEEN DREAMING OF MEETING YOU FOR OVER 20 YEARS, AS I AM SURE MANY OTHERS IN THE WASHINGTON DC METRO AREA HAVE BEEN! so back to my question as odd as it may be…you have mentioned several times that you rise around 3am or 4am every morning. my question is, “what time do you turn in at night?” just curious as to how many hours sleep you actually get. i am trying to retrain my internal clock…i always stay up late after everyone has gone to bed to enjoy a little time to myself to work on creative projects, read, watch my shows which are usually recorded, etc. i have a little boy who gets my undivided attention before he goes to bed, so i stay up late (sometimes way too late) to do what i don’t do when he is up. the only problem is that i usually end up falling asleep, and not getting anything done that i wanted to do. i really think i would get a lot more done in the early hours of the day before i have to leave the house to take him to school on my way to work. thanks for this post about your book signings. i hope to be at one (fingers crossed!) have a wonderful day!
What a fun idea – the Queen Mary. Sounds perfect! But if you came to the historic Brown Palace Hotel in Denver…where they serve a delightful afternoon tea…then I could go! tee hee. Or the Molly Brown House…ooooh not such a good idea. She was on the Titanic. uggh.
Love the Brown Palace! Great idea, Joann 🙂
Or maybe Quilt-A-Fair in September at the Boulder County Fairgrounds or The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park.
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.
I don’t know if you’re familiar with Perlier bath and body products, but below is a link to their snowdrop line. It’s so heavenly!! My favorite scent. Every time I see your pictures of your snowdrops, I give myself another spritz of the perfume. hsn.com/search?query=perlier+snow+drop.
Question: Are you going to be at Remnants of the Past this year? The site has a picture of you, but doesn’t mention your name; but in another post I see your name mentioned.
I’ll be at Remnants in November — 9th and 10th.
Susan,
Please check out Talking Leaves Books in Buffalo, NY for a signing. It is a great independent store and hosts many book events.
I was lucky enough to meet you and Joe at a signing in Sandwich MM, but that was when I lived in New England.
Looking forward to your new book so very much.
Hi Jean, Thanks for suggesting Talking Leaves in Buffalo! I live in Dunkirk and a few posts ago I suggested a rest stop in Niagara-on-the-Lake since it’s so close and so special. Kind of like going to England only by car. Here’s hoping!
So enjoyed your blog today, was looking to see familiar faces in your SLO photo since I lived in PB for 30 years (when you lived in SLO & I delivered your mail) but the only familiar face was…you! Just a thought, wouldn’t an Amtrak ride on the Coast Starlight from SLO to Seattle be fun? A book signing in Seattle would be awesome….Tom Douglas could make us some snacks….ok I guess we’d have to go to Dahlia Lounge or one of his other eateries for that, but yummy snacks abound in Seattle. Hmmm I may have been watching too many episodes of Top Chef again…..
Thanks for all the photos though, the cardinal is precious, wish I could post a photo of his counterpart the Stellars Jay that is in our yard, his blue mohawk is FIERCE! Have a bountiful day enjoying the petite fleurs in your garden….
I have been wracking my brain since reading this post a day or two ago (I am At Home, recovering from “female internal repair surgery,” and the days are beginning to blend together just a bit….), and have come up with a couple of suggestions for you. Of course there are MANY possible venues in the Chicago area, but I will tell you a couple of my favorites: infini-tea is a darling little tea shop in Antioch, IL, in the far northern suburbs. They have WONDERFUL food–and tea, of course!–and they do cater, but not sure if they could handle a group the size of the girlfriends. . . You could ask. 🙂 And there’s a lovely old mansion, formerly the Cuneo family home, in Vernon Hills, IL, where my daughter did an internship while in grad school for Museum Studies. They host events on the grounds (in huge tents) and we just heard that they’re actually going to begin renting out the house itself, which is very grand—Italianate, I believe. Finally, the Lake Forest Book Store regularly hosts book signings, both at the store and off-site when the group is larger than they can handle; I went to one at a nearby country club.
So those are my suggestions. I would dearly love to attend one of your book-signings, depending on where you end up having them. . . I will be on Mackinac Island in early October (now THERE would be a nice spot—-the Grand Hotel, maybe? :-)) and in Bradenton, Florida later in the month, celebrating my mother’s 90th birthday—-that could be fun, too! 🙂
Very best wishes on “almost” finishing your book——I preordered two copies just now, can’t WAIT to see it!
MMMMMMMM Mackinac Island in early October!
Rabbit, rabbit – Grand Hotel – you will love it!
Hi Susan,
“Jack kept looking up wanting to know if I needed him to go upstairs and check on what was going on.” LOL. Love it.
I too can comprehend what my 3 poochies are thinking! I think, being perceptive to their way of communicating is key, because the spoken language is not the only way that LIFE communicates itself. For instance, your lovely little snowdrops. Little bulb, going to sleep in the cold, cold ground …. then like magic it pokes its little self out of the soil with a reminder of what? Well, to me it speaks the message of renewal.
Congratulations on the completion of the book authoring journey. Now the fun begins….TRaVeL! Somehow your cocooning and writing A FINE ROMANCE reminds me of that little snowdrop. Snowdrop Sue.
XO
Erica
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
Susan,
Would love it if you came to Florida – like the Haslam’s Books in St. Petersburg. Fl. They claim to be the largest new and used book store in Fl. which started in 1933 and is being run by the third generation. Florida is beautiful and I know you would love our beaches. I’m am so excited for your book. I have pre-ordered it and understand that you be signing it before it goes out in the mail, but I would so love to meet you in person. I hope you will consider a signing somewhere in the Southeast.
Sue in Fl.
To Rhonda — I’m glad you reached out to the girlfriends with your situation. Please know that we are holding you close in prayer!
Susan,
I hope Minnesota is a possibility for a book signing! Altho I don’t live in the metro area, I am familiar with the University Club (Summit Ave. facility) in St. Paul. It is a LOVELY, century old tudor building with wonderful ambience and views. There are great pictures online to give you the feel of the building. It would be perfect for a large group AND a tea party. 🙂 Another St. Paul venue is the St. Paul Hotel (on the National Historic Register). I have enjoyed high tea in their beautiful lobby, but they also have larger rooms (ballroom, etc.) available for group activities. It is gorgeous and historic! Please check these out as you consider all your options and plan your book signings. 🙂
Hi Susan, I left a message yesterday, I guess it didn’t go thru and I thought I would try again. I have the email for “The Best of British shop”, in Newburyport, MA. Bernadette and Bob would love you to come to their shop if you can, for a signing. I guess I could leave it here, it’s : [email protected] If there is anything else I can do to help, I’d love to. It is a beautiful part of the state, I think you would love it.I fell in love with the area and my husband, 32 years ago.
Just reading about your idea for a book signing on the Queen Mary, and I was already climbing aboard! Too bad it is so expensive! I will be looking for your dates and locations here in California, as I definitely want to join the fun. If it had been 2014, our quilt guild in Simi Valley, CA, hosts a two day quilt show (which you would love!), and we would adore having you come and speak and sign books. But our shows are every other year, and our next one is in 2014, first weekend of October.
I love the pictures from England. My mom was a HUGE Anglophile, and I have just started watching Downton Abbey. My husband even watched it with me last weekend. It was my birthday, and he was very sweet to watch with me. He did ask lots of questions, so I think he got into it!
Thank you for the lovely books, blog and website!
Susan, would love to see you in the Worcester, MA area. The Hanover Theater has been renovated and would be a great place for a book signing. How about a Central Mass location. Any ideas from the Central Mass girlfriends??? Also, prayers and thoughts are with you Rhonda. My hubby was sick for about 8 months last year and I found it hard to ask for any help but once I did, a weight was lifted off my shoulders. My girlfirends organized “suppers for us” every night and we were so amazed and grateful. It helps.
I’be already suggested the Tattered Cover in Demver and the Boulder Bookstore on the mall in Boulder, Colorado (University of Colorado). Another great place on that mall is Peppercorn, extremely unique kitchen/cookbook/gift store. They have a lot of space and could easily host a book signing and maybe a tea. (They literally have thousands O’s cookbooks lining their walls.)
As far as tea shops go, two come to mind. The
Chestnut Tree in Denton, TX (home of
UNT andTWU) and The Dove’s Nest in Waxahatchie, TX.
They have a French country store attached to the tearoom and plenty of room! Their apricot chicken salad is to die for.
You wrote a book!!!’ What an accomplishment!
Oh Susan, I can’t wait for your book so we can all relive “our” wonderful trip to England last year. I’m ordering copies for friends as well so they can travel with us. Northshire Bookstore in Manchester, VT would be lovely for a fall signing. Geraldine Brooks (a fellow Martha Vineyard dweller) did a signing there last year and I drove three hours to hear her and it was worth every mile! Can’t wait to see the list of where you’ll be signing. Until then, enjoy your spring and all the lovely flowers it brings!
I am SOOO excited you are trying to set up a Book signing in southern CA in Sept!!! If Queen Mary / Long Beach or Pasadena don’t work out; there might be a possibility here in the San Diego area. The San Diego Quilt Guild holds its annual Quilt Show in September each year (they have speakers and LOTS of room) at the Convention Center (it’s right on the bay with lots of boats moored near it. Contact info: facebook.com/SanDiegoQuiltShow; or their own website (being updated at the moment) sandiegoquiltshow.com/ Also Hornblower Cruises does afternoon and evening cruises around San Diego Bay – they have a restaurant on board and you can book very large parties and have lunch, dinner or Brunch on Sundays – here is their website hornblower.com/
Penney, did you see Linda’s post??? Please email her. I already did & am trying to get you two connected too. Let’s put our hearts & heads together & figure out a great book signing for Susan!!!
Hey Girlfriends who live in the San Diego – maybe as a group we can come up with something for Susan in our area. If you want to contact me, my e-mail is [email protected] and we can put out minds together. Hope to hear from you.
How about Connecticut!!!
Hi Susan ~
If not the Queen Mary (which sounds heavenly), then definitely Vroman’s in Pasadena. I met you there when your “Autumn” cookbook came out. I have the photo of the two of us in a place of honor (inside the front cover of the “Autumn” book). Can’t wait to see you once again!
The Queen Mary is fabulous. My husband & I spent the night there some years back to celebrate his birthday. Great fun! ♥
~ Christina from Toluca Lake
Definitely Vroman’s!
I just read the NY times article with Julian Fellowes. I am much happier about Downton again! I just couldn’t figure out why he would do away with Matthew. Now I know the “rest of the story”. Still am sad to see him go and can’t wait to see what is in store for Mary. I was surprised we didn’t hear from you on this very important matter! Ha Ha!
I don’t have any useful ideas for a West Coast launch, but I sure hope you get around to the Washington, DC/Northern Virginia area at some point!
Poor Jack. Wonder how many of his pony tail holders are under the fridge, too?
I can’t wait! Love the snowdrops and kitty! What would it be like to be somewhere-anywhere with all of our girlfriends? Talk about a room full of creativity! One can dream-can’t she?
I know I won’t be on the West or East coast for a book signing. How about Florida in the Winter time?? I am looking forward to the book arriving. I have followed you all over England & can’t wait to revisit it in your book. Good for you!
Florida in winter sounds wonderful!
YES, FL in Jan, Feb or March – Orlando? xxxooo
Oh dear – I do love living in Montana but there are a few bad things about it – the main one being that no one ever comes here to sign their books. More deer than people in this state and deer aren’t known for buying books, darn it. If you get to Bellingham, Washington area there is a wonderful bookstore there, “Village Books.” It’s a super place and I know locals there who love you.
Happy almost Spring Susan!
I’ll keep that in mind. I was in Bellingham many years ago, it was a beautiful place!
Susan,
I’m thinking ………….! But I sure hope you are thinking about a stop in Michigan. Mackinac Island in early October would be wonderful!! It is sooo beautiful too! It can be a little chilly though, so make sure you bring a sweater. Would be a real thrill to meet you! Question? Is British Country Living the magazine you did the photo shoot for at Christmas time? I’ve forgotten and really wanted to remember so I could get an issue. Thanks!
It’s Yankee Magazine. I’ll be sure to let everyone know when it comes out, and we’ll have some magazines available in our web store. Yes, Macinac, or, as I know it, The Somewhere in Time Hotel.
Thanks for your answer about the magazine. What a great idea to offer it in the store. Will certainly want one. Yes, The Grand Hotel was a place I had always wanted to go to even as a child. My husband surprised me several years ago and took me there for my birthday. A very special weekend for us. Anyway, hope to see you in Michigan!
Jan
Sounds like you’ve gotten a lot of possibilities for the booksigning. My Dad turns 90 this summer, too, in July. Here’s to our heroes.
I will definitely click teacups with you on that. We are so lucky!
Hooray for our “Heroes” my Dad will be 93 on June 30th and I recently got to spend a week with him in Feb. I have to say it saddened me to see that his memory is failing him but we had a lot of laughs and he had a blast with Angela driving him around (he adores her)……I know this time comes for each of us and I want to wrap my parents up in my arms and shelter them and protect them from the “boogie man” so to speak. Love, dignity, respect, and being there when they need us is all we can give them. I’m so proud of my parents and appreciate everything they did for me to make me the person that I am today. Ladies who are lucky enough to have your parents….cherish them.
They took care of our boogie men, didn’t they, it’s only fair. xoxo
Not to change the subject, but what is the story of the two Scottie dog figurines by the fireplace? We have a 10-1/2 year-old Scottie, and I’d recognize those ears anywhere! Will a book signing bring you to Missouri, Kansas City maybe?
We are working on that. Those two little dogs are old iron doorstops, but we keep them near the fire. You are so lucky to have the real thing!
Please consider coming to NC…there’s a wonderful bookstore called McIntyre’s Books in the historic Fearrington Village outside of Chapel Hill. The village has restaurants, an Inn, shops
and even a farm to charm all of your fans! Google Fearrington Village, please!
I wrote that down Barbara!
If you could come to Cincinnati, OH or somewhere near there, I would come! (hint, hint)
🙂 Maddie
Maddie,
I love your blog! I just checked it out. And I adore Betsy-Tacy! Have you read the 3 “extra” books–Carnie’s House Party, Emma of Deep Valley and Winnona’s Pony Cart?
Linda
Hi Susan. For your long time and loving fans please make a stop in the beautiful Pacific Northwest! We promise sunshine and blue skies while you are here.
OK!
Hi Susan
How exciting for all the girlfriends to look forward to in the fall, a book signing, how I would love to join you all but just too far from England. I love tea parties, good conversation and I would especially like to meet you Susan and many of the girlfriends, kindred spirits!
Maybe I will come to England one of these days!
Here in Massachusetts in the Pioneer Valley there is a large Barnes and Noble in Holyoke for a book signing tour. The Lord Jeff (which is owned by Amherst College) is a lovely inn that could probably host you, and you would love the place. Gorgeous – a night there with Joe would be perfect after a long day. I have been to conferences and the like, as well as wedding receptions, at The Lord Jeff. Please think about it. There are a lot of people in western Massachusetts that would love to see you come here. I know you were in Deerfield last year from the pictures you took in Old Deerfield that you posted on your blog, so please come back when your book comes oot that we can’t wait to see.
Love the oot? Sounds foreign, don’t you think? Old eyes trying to hit the right keys here….
xoxoxxo
No problem, Lynn – that’s just your “Canadian” accent! :>)
Please come to Seattle, Bellevue, or even Portland for all of us in the Pacific Northwest. I also love that your snowdrops are up and blooming, mine, too. I put a little vase of them on a mirror so I can see their beautiful insides!!
Since I am half way between NY and Philly, I am determined to find a book signing somewhere that I can go to! Sooo looking forward to meeting you, dear Susan, have already pre-ordered “our” book. Looking forward to meeting other girlfriends, too! I haven’t had a chance to comment in a while, but love all the DA followers! And the past posts on England – oh! Someday I will get there, and I will have the perfect guide book to take me!!! Thank you, for every post is a treat!
Thank you Juliana!!
Have really enjoyed the last 2 posts….and everyone before of course! I find such peace when I read your blog, I really feel like I’ve visited with my “friends”….after reading the blog and the comments I want to jump up and create ! …or…snuggle down in front of the fire with a lovely “cup” of tea……….I work full time as a nurse in a rehab/retirement/hospice unit…my days can become a “smidge” heavy…I look forward to going home to check my computer for your newest message and all the comments….I read every one!! Thank you for the new book and all the hard work you do to make such a lovely “gift” for us girlfriends…Please let me know how close to Asheville NC you can come for a book signing….I would love love love to meet you…happy “almost” spring day…evangeline
Nice to hear from you Evangeline, and I need to say thank you for the work you do, nurses are guardian angels and I could never say thank you enough. Love to meet you too, hopefully we will get down there!
Oh please come to Washington state. There is a quaint tiny town called Sumner about 30 minutes South of Seattle. There we have a wonderful restaurant called the Secret Garden. It is located in a very old ornate mansion. It’s so Susan Branch. They serve scratch-cooked lunches and high tea, and there is a little tea gift shop. The decor is vintage and charming.
Of course I am only a customer of theirs, but I can so see you doing a signing there.
A girl can hope right?:)
{you can google The Secret Garden Sumner to see it}
The name alone is enough to make me want to go! 🙂
Forgot to say that Washington state is gorgeous in September.
Must smell heavenly too! All those ripe apples waiting for harvest! I live in “apple country” too – Finger Lakes region of NY – and in September you can walk or drive past the brimming orchards and smell apple in the air! Love it. :>)
..dear Susan good morning to you !…thank you for posting Ashokan Farewell once again (on Twitter)…love that and love you…thank you…
My pleasure! Something about that piece of music is like an arrow to my heart. xoxo
Good Morning Susan, Had to take a day and think about where you could have your book signing. Well, can’t really say that would be a good idea any more being in a public place like Barnes & Noble, with all these nuts that have been let out of their hospitals and they could have a gun, Sorry to rain a bit on your parade, but we don’t live in a society where we are safe any more.
You may have to hire at least two guards if you are going to be in a public area.
I do have an idea. Many of the girlfriends would relish the idea of being on board ship. So a nice cruse that we pay our way, and you would be there at different times of the day for your book signing. What about a cruse to “Bermuda”? It is a wonderful Island. You would dock right at “Hamilton” and there everyone could go shopping, dineing. Then the could go to the beach and just have a wonderful vacation. This of course would be for you east cost girls. I have no idea what could be offered on the west cost. I got this idea from Q.V.C.
Years ago they took a cruse because we all love the clothing line from “Quaker Factory” This is a girls only trip.
One year I was invited to what they called “Crusin’ with Susan” — it was a scrapbook cruise to the Bahamas! Very fun!
What about a signing in the South? Savannah, Atlanta, Orlando???? We love your books, blog, products, everything! The weather will be beautiful at that time of year.
That Jack is a totally cool cat.
He sure is! Hope to get down your way, thank you!
AND NASHVILLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🙂
LOL Judy! That was good!
Good morning Sweet Susan!
How about contacting Filoli Gardens in Redwood City, Ca? If you’ve never been there, I encourage you to go on line and see this place! Its main house and gardens are breath taking. I know they do host some major events. They have a charming restaurant, and a glorious shop that could only be better if your new book were in it! This is all so exciting!!!
❌⭕❌⭕,
Tawni Urrutia in Lodi, Ca
We have tried twice to go there, and both times it was closed. It’s still on my list to see someday, I think it would be perfect!
There is an event in the fall in Snohomish, WA (antique capital!) called Ruffles and Rust. It is held at the Evergreen Fairgrounds – plenty of room for a book signing! I’m sorry that I don’t have any contact information for you, but I know it would be an ideal venue.
Oh, I hope it works to have you in Washington.
I’m going to try Carol… we were thinking probably of Seattle.
Yay!!!! 🙂
How about Salt Lake City? The King’s English Bookstore (a perfect name for your book signing!) hosts lots of book signings. Maybe, the Orangerie at Red Butte Gardens would be the prefect spot. I know there are lots of people that would flock to hear you speak. September in Utah can be beautiful!
Salt Lake is wonderful too! Writing down the name of that store, sounds perfect!
How wonderful you are coming to Arizona. I lived in Clarkdale when my first born son was 2 weeks old for about a year and a half. We had a charming little yellow and white old house with a white picket fence that we rented from the baby’s pediatrician, and when it snowed all I had to do was walk next door to get him to his check up! Good times living there, simple times. Let me know if you want any help booking a place.
Hugs, Judy
Susan, I live here in Phoenix, AZ where you Dad lives, and I wondered if there were anything I could do to book you at Barnes and Noble or any other place of your choice. I would be glad to make some calls for you. I know of a darling tea house downtown Mesa, and some other consignment and thrift stores that may be good places for your book signing. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help out. I’m serious, now. Let me know!!! Love ya sooooo much! Judy
YOu are so sweet Judy, thank you!! My dad lives in Cottonwood … a bit north of Phoenix. We’re really going to try and find something in Arizona!
Hi! Susan, Would love for you to come to Books n More in Wilmington, Ohio. It has lovely hardward, creaky floors from years past and is near the historic Murphy Theater, after all, Ohio is the heart of it all!
Sounds wonderful Cathy! I wrote that down!
Don’t you ever venture as far North as Canada ???? Toronto is a nice place to visit The lovely old King Edward hotel does a lovely afternoon tea! And we would love to see you up here . Can’t wait for the book
I went to Toronto to do a TV show once, a long time ago. What a gorgeous city it is!
Please, please come to Toronto. I would be first in line or maybe second after Lynne, lol. Your “Love” book arrived in the mail yesterday – pure enchantment! Hugs and prayers for healing to Rhonda. Hope your mom had a lovely birthday yesterday and was surrounded by people she loves and who love her.
Hope I get up there Elaine — thanks for the good wishes, for everyone!
Here in Washington State, we have had a fairly mild winter this year…and the spring flowers are peeking through….I have daffodils that are just about ready to pop open and the tulips are up 6 inches!!! This is so unusual for here..usually doesn’t happen until April!!!! But it sure feels good that spring is on its way…..I just hope that we don’t have a late frost….my fingers and toes are crossed. !!!! Now, we just need some nice warm sunshine to warm that soil!!!!! and me! I am working on an illustration for the local farmers market today..so much fun to see the spring time produce pop off the paper!!!! I love to paint, just like you! It is my life too! Have a great day and weekend, coming up! xoxo
It’s a good life, the ruination of posture, but other than that, it’s heaven.
Rhonda D. God is still in the business of performing miracles and I am praying for one for you. Believe it !
Hi Susan~~
All the while reading about the book signings, I was thinking of where you could have a book signing close to Eureka. Or up in Washington while we are there. We lost our bookstore here in town last year. We do have a Women’s Club though. Ukiah is the next largest city…. about 3 hours from Eureka. San Francisco is around 5 hours from us. Spokane, WA has a Borders at the Northtown Mall. Also, Kennewick, Wa has a Borders Bookstore in their mall. About 3 hours from Spokane. I know there are tons of people who would love to meet you. For myself I would love to meet you, but I’m hoping to be one of those girlfriends that has a signed book already:)
Looks and sounds as though spring is really trying to shove away winter. My cousin, in NH has said the 3 storms that they’ve gotten has been wet snow and that’s a sign of spring coming around the corner.
Loved to see your mom in the crowd of people at one of your book signing times sitting with Joe. I bet she is looking forward for you and Joe getting back to California once again. Don’t know if she get to Martha’s Vineyard at all.
Until next time ~ xoxoxo
Carol M
Definitely, we are both looking forward to it… planning already! Guess what? Daffodils up!
Susan,
Spring is definitely getting close to Martha’s Vineyard. My daffodils are about 4 inches above ground now. With the, I guess you could call it, mild weather here on the coast, we do have certain bushes that bloom most of the year.
Have a great weekend!
Carol M
Us too, about 3 or 4 inches — a nice way to start March!
Hello Susan!
Sherri from Vroman’s Bookstore here. I am so excited about your new book! We loved having you sign at Vroman’s a few years ago, and would be thrilled for you to come back to our store in Pasadena, CA.
Oh how wonderful Sherri — you know I love Vroman’s! That would be wonderful. I’ll get in touch with you!
Susan: Since you mentioned British Country Living, you may want to check out these two Brit mags next time you’re in Barnes & Noble: LANDLOVE and LANDSCAPE. landlove.com; landscapemagazine.co.uk
Thanks so much for your blog – especially love the winter storm ones! Do you plan a book stop in Texas? Maybe Austin?
Thea, San Marcos TX
Those magazines look wonderful! Thank you! I have never been to Austin and I’ve always wanted to go, I hear they have a river that goes through the town that makes it really wonderful. Is it really far from Houston? Could Houston people come to Austin? Thank you Thea!
Houston is about 150 miles from Austin, but Austin is way cooler!!!
I’ve been to Houston, but never to Austin, would love to see it!
Susan,
Houston is REALLY FAR from Austin. That’s the problem with Texas, you can drive all day and never leave the state. I’m out here in West Texas, SW of Abilene, and Houston is a 7 hour drive, Austin and San Antonio about 3 to 3 1/2 hours, Ft Worth/Dallas about 4 hours. So we are used to traveling. And since we are such a big state, if you go to Houston, it would make it easier if you could do either Austin or Dallas also. Please…..pretty please!? It just that we all love you!
Chris
I need to look at the map! Could I just come to Austin, would that be close enough for everyone? I’m wondering because I know Houston is way down there!
Susan, please try to come to Dallas too!!!!!
I wish I could get everywhere, but we will do our darndest…a lot to do before the snow starts up again!
I live near Houston in The Woodlands and love you, Susan! Yes, Houston people would definately come to Austin! It is about 3.5 hours away. There are rivers in Austin but you might be thinking about the San Antonio River Walk that has boat tours and such with restaurants, hotels and shops with a pathway all along the river. We stayed once in a hotel right on the walk where we could watch all the happenings along the river from our balcony! You can also float the Guadalupe river in New Braunfels which is right outside of Austin. I sure hope you can come to either Houston or Austin or even San Antonio! Either way I will be there for sure! 🙂
Love Love,
Lisa Hay from The Woodlands, TX
Forgot to also mention the The Oasis in Austin! Check out the website http://www.oasis-austin.com/ It is the sunset capital of Texas and there is a hotel and shops there along with the famous restaurant, The Oasis, that overlooks Lake Travis and has the most spectacular sunsets!! You can sit out on the terrace outside and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the lake. Yes, I am trying my hardest to convince you to come to Texas! 🙂
Hugs,
Lisa Hay
We want to go to Texas too Lisa! Thank you!
Oh that is so good to hear! Thanks Lisa!
Susan,
I hope that you will reprint your adorable bookmark for us to copy… I accidentally erased my Willard newsletter from my computer… talk about upset!!! Thankfully, I had already pre-ordered A Fine Romance but I hadn’t gotten around to printing out the bookmark… so sad!! Of course, it is not the end of the world but thought I would mention it.
Scroll down to the bottom of either the next post or the one after… in the PS, you will find a link to the Willard! And the bookmark!
Thank you so much!!
The book signing plans all sound fun to me! It would have been perfect on board the Queen Mary but anything will be fun , really!! The fall does sound like the perfect way to blend with other major celebrations where people can go and spend the day as well. Will you miss fall in New England? I would have a tough time being away for such a uniquely beautiful time of the year at Martha’s Vineyard. But maybe the fall on the west coast is pretty too??? No matter what eventually evolves for a visit schedule, I hope there will be something on the east coast I can attend and meet you and so many other girlfriends. It would be Epic!!!
Hopefully, you will be in IL for a signing or two. I live ~ 60 miles SW of Chicago – so Chicago or any of the south or west suburbs would be great. Enjoy your travels and happy birthday to your dad!
…going to be on the west coast in Sept….so many family members up and down the coast of California…and my dear second son and his wife are expecting their first born up in Seattle…maybe I will be fortunate enough to find you…this is sooo exciting, Susan…you must be feeling up amid the stars !!…and rightfully so !!..also, my dear Dad’s birthday is also in August…he will be 89 !!(oops !!..there and I just told the whole word !!)…my father, as I had told you before, so often reminds me of your father !!…and we both, Susan, come from VERY large (and loving) families…with love and take care !!
How many brothers and sisters do you have Mary? When’s your dad’s birthday?
I know you’re just one person, but it would be beyond lovely if you could make a swing through the southeast. There are a number of places in Atlanta with sufficient size! 😀 We really are quite civilized down here.
You are the HOME of Miss Pitty Pat! How much more civilized can it get??? 🙂
I remember a restaurant in Atlanta called Pitty Pat’s Porch. It was very good but, hmmmm, that must’ve been close to 30 years ago!
…hi Susan…(quick response…for joy !!)…I have nine brothers and sisters !!..you know that there was never a dull moment !!…my parents were(and still are ) the best parents ever !!!…got to love children to have sooo many !!…I love my childhood memories !!!!…my father’s birthday is August 31..as is his first grandaughter and great grandson’s…love you Susan and all that you do !!!!…as you have heard many times before, “You go girl!! “…take care !!
There are ten of you kids? WOW, that is so impressive! Yes, the funnest thing in the world to be from a big family! I loved every moment, childhood was heaven.
I am getting so excited for all the girlfriends!!! I wish I could follow you around the USA and stand in line with all of them. How cool would it be if we could all meet each other in person?!?
Talking about England, Ashley picked this as her country in girlscouts. She is a cadette, troop 6090. She dressed as one of the daughters of Downton, not sure which one she was, but she wore a pink fascinator with roses on it, a strand of pearls, and a pocketbook with a hanky inside. She also carried in a china teacup and saucer. Quite a little lady she was. I think you are rubbing off on her. They all loved her outfit. They all made scallops, pasta and moon pies. How about that combination. It was a fun time for the girls, and they loved cooking and exploring each of their countries.
Emily said she would watch the kitty’s for you, but she has school when you start your tour. Starting high school is the fall.
I do hope we get to visit with you if you are nearby.
I love that teaparty!
Oh Susan, I get the biggest smile on my face each time I read your blog!!! It makes me HappY! Happy! Happy! You have just that right way of saying things and it really gets my creative juices flowing , especially after a very busy day at the Dr. clinic where I work. Am excited about a schedule for book signing. I want to try and attend one. I am in Granbury, Tx (30 mins SW of Ft.Worth and 1hr SW of Dallas. Houston is about 4-5 hrs south of me. Remeber the Texas girlfriends. Love all you do.
I will Pamala!
Dear Susan–I loved the photo of you and your Dad! My Dad will be 91 in June. Monday after a trip to the Dr. we had a big hug just like in your photo. Aren’t we lucky daughters.
We sure are!
Susan,
I worked in a book store for a long time before coming to England and one of the things we used to do were “remote signings.” Often there would be an event where an author or authors were speaking and we would go and sell the books being autographed. I’m sure once you find a venue the local book store would be able to arrange something like that for you.
Also, the Williamsburg Inn does a lovely afternoon tea.
That would be wonderful!
Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus
Happy Saint David’s Day
Oh, this year I have only the small calendar, but I’m told by those who have the largest one that Saint David’s Day is marked on it! Thank you, thank you, thank you Dear Susan for marking this day!
I am off to the celebrations in the village, with my lovely Mum. Too many things to list here, but there is an outdoor market on the square (shiver at the thought) the Bishop’s Blessing, a Pilgrim’s Walk, a Parade of Dragons, the Best Cawl (traditional Welsh soup) competition. a Twmpath, . . and windows are all gaily decorated with Flags, Flowers, and Welsh themes . . and there will be food!
I must remember my camera!
Now I feel a bit bad because I don’t have St. David’s Day on the calendar . . . Something tells me I should! Tell me about it Deborah!
Oh, Susan, you must never feel bad! I don’t have the large calendar this year, and someone told me you’d marked St Davids Day on it!
Saint David, or Dewi Sant, was a Celtic Christian monk who established a Christian community in Saint Davids during the 6th century, and became the Patron Saint of Wales. March 1st is his feast day. http://www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk/ links to the cathedral, which is my parish church. This gives a little more information too, http://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofWales/St-David-Patron-Saint-of-Wales/
You might have guessed I am immensely proud of my Welsh heritage, and cannot imagine living anywhere else (although I have) My blog is mostly about my area too.
A friend, who has the large calendar, told me that St David’s Day was marked on it, but I guess it seems she was on a flight of fancy 😀
Hope you manage to squeeze some time in your hectic schedule to read about David and the cathedral! Diolch yn Fawr . . Thank you very much for asking! ♥
I will do that Deborah, thank you!
All these amazing comments from all these swingin’ girlfriends is so great ….let me say” Bore da “to you Deb….and for Mary Spring , a family of 10 kids? —-uff —your father is an iron man …….and what about” Merry Old England ” the real benefactor here! — Hey Queen !– you out there ? This is a tourism book about your country !
As such , you guys stand to reap huge revenue based on this publication –it’s already started with these thousands of “Girlfriends ” comments , airing their plans to visit your country –even to the point of suggesting that Susan form up a travel group and be their tour guide . I would think the Crown would want to show a great deal of support in this regard ……..?……..?………?
Anyway Sue called this A. M. And she’s only got 22 more pages to finalize –these are completed as to content on tissue , they just have to be redone(copied) on material that the printer can use to do his work and then shipped — a timely process ,
that really complicates setting up a “book-signing” to cover , all the vital points across this country …..however like all our problems …….you get to them and they workout !
Finally to Deborah from Celtic Heart and to all ” Iechyd Da” Cheers and have a nice day.
😀 Iechyd Da Jack . . Diolch yn Fawr!
Oh this is getting good!
Mr. Jack, you got the “uff” but left out the da:) Good to hear from you:)
LOL! He never says duh. 🙂
Happy March dear Susan!… I just turned the page of my calender over and LOVE the rhyme you wrote on it!… and also the beautiful painting of your stove… (my favorite!!!)… I had not looked ahead at the pages, as I wanted each one to be a wonderful surprise… thank you for a beautiful beginning to this glorious month that officially starts Spring!… you make EVERY day a blessing!… love you, xoxo Julie Marie
So happy you like it Julie! xoxo
ME TOO:)
So GFs what does it say about us that we love a painting of an old stove? Of course we love all your paintings dear sweet Sue, but don’t you find it interesting – when I turned the page to March, it was with a sigh, the beautiful stove! XOXO
I think a stove says Home, Mom, nurturing, love, warmth, good smells, Birthday cakes and all the wonderful things we love.♥
Rabbit, rabbit; Long Live Peter Rabbit!
Sequester semester, let’s send them all back to kindergarten where, perhaps, they can revisit the concept of how to get along and work with others.
Really.
Lately my bedtime reading has been “Stillmeadow and Sugarbridge,” which of course is the book of Gladys Taber’s and Barbara Webster’s letters to each other. Gladys just mentioned that they saw her daughter Connie off to Europe – on the Queen Mary! (must have been in the early 1950’s) What a coincidence to read that just as you wrote about your tea party idea aboard the same ship! Another one, too – Gladys writes about her love of snowdrops, and you posted a picture of them. You must be channeling her. 🙂
I’m among the many looking forward to not only the book coming out, but now to you making a tour! I love the tea party idea, too. Wherever you come closest to Kansas City, I’ll be making a road trip there. I read Gladys’ books because she is so soothing and comforting in this often stressful world, and your books and your blog do the same for me. I can shut out the ugly and slip into a kinder and gentler world. Thanks so much for all you share with us.
I’ve always channeled her! I don’t know why, but we do have the same birthday! I’m honored Cheryl, thank you!
😀
Rainy Day Books in Kansas City (Fairway KS is suburb) regularly does big book signings at an historic church on the Plaza; there are a couple of hotels that put on English teas (our PBS station has one annually – lots of Brit fans in KC)
I wrote that down Bets, I’ve actually been there before, loved it!
Coming to Arizona in August is a Herculian Feat! If you need a lovely retired school teacher to kitty sit – just let me know! I would love to head East while you are coming to the South West. 🙂
Thank you!
Oh Susan, I do hope you plan on coming to the so east! NC perhaps? I probably wont be able to visit my bro in Huntington Beach this year. Love and remember the pictures from your signing at the Madonna Inn, we love that place! Your snow is so beautiful, we still haven’t gotten any! Boo hoo! Oh, that Jack is such a sneak! So funny!
Hugs and blessings,
Jeannie
I think we might make it down there Jeannie!
I was really surprised to see the picture of Remnants From the Past, I am in it – or anyway my left arm (white top) and the top of my head. I was talking away to someone in line. I enjoyed the antique show and meeting you was a highlight. I look forward to doing it again in November. Another great post. So glad we were able to order our books. Spring is coming fast in California my daffodils have been up over a week now.
Coming faster than usual here too … although we never know when a snow storm might pop up!
I”m so excited to hear that you are considering Seattle! I live in Issaquah, 15 miles east of Seattle and we have a wonderful historic renovated 1800’s barn available for rent here. It accommodates up to 400 people. I attended a tea here once which was very nice! Here’s the link to it if you are interested: myparksandrecreation.com/ParksTrails/Details.aspx?pid=360. It’s called the Pickering Barn – take a peek and see what you think!
Looks very nice … thank you Heidi!
I’m so sorry the Queen Mary didn’t work out. It just seems so perfect, that I’m blanking out on anything else, at the moment…but if an idea comes to me, I’ll be back!
p.s. Do you happen to know what the name of the blue daisy in the photo, is called? I’ve never seen one that looks so true blue!
They’re just called Blue Daisy or Blue Marguerite.
Hi Susan! Sorry I haven’t gotten to write earlier this week…work has been, WORK! Imagine that?!?
What an exciting late Summer and Fall you have planned. I can’t wait to see you somewhere here in the mid-west, I hope (everything is crossed).
And, your Dad turns 90!?!? You’ve got good genes, our friend – he looks fabulous! What a special celebration you will have together.
Wherever you go whatever you do – we’re girlfriends and we’ll be doing it together! How fun!!!
Have a fabulous weekend!
XooX,
Jeanette
Couldn’t find my original message, so I’ll write another. Can’t believe alllllll the ideas girlfriends have sent to you Susan, for your book signing! I’ve written down many bookstores, as well as gardens, mansions, etc. that appear to be so much fun to visit, all from the messages sent to you. Girlfriends are a wealth of information. Loved reading about the many places I haven’t visited & hope to someday.
And, that look on Jack’s face is priceless. What a cat! How could you ever know the fun he’s brought to you & Joe? To hide all those rubber bands under your scale must have taken him a long time. He no doubt hid them when you & Joe were busy, otherwise you’d have seen him hiding the bands.
Signs of spring are popping up all over So. CA. There are some who say we don’t have seasons here in CA. Not so. You only have to look at the flowering trees, the Daffodils blooming (the first this week), birds making nests, very subtle signs of spring. Just have to be more observant, that’s all. We love So. CA & all the mild weather.
Must tell you that after reading about the Yankee magazine visiting your house, I subscribed to it & just love it! I’m also going to subscribe to the English Country Living, because I’ve heard you mention how wonderful it is. You’ve enriched my life enormously, Susan & Girlfriends. Sandy from Chihuahua Flats
You will love it too Sandy! — And yes, I think our girlfriends could answer any question! I remember when I was in England, it was one of these good girls here who taught me the quick easy way to convert Celsius into Fahrenheit!
For some reason I was under the impression that the publisher arranged the
Book signings. They should also arrange for you to be on a cooking show—such as
Pioneer Woman, she’s a fan of yours—–you both are all for home style cooking,and are
Genuine people. Just that show would send the book sales through the roof!
You are probably right! Love her!
I always thought the publisher did that too! Hope they arrange for you to be on the radio/tv in the major cities on your way west/south/north/east 🙂 chatting about your book. You reach soooo many at one time that way!
We’re doing it so we can drive and stop …. TV is good too!
Here’s a link to a nice bookstore in Oklahoma City, just in case you make it to the middle of the country. But if you can’t come to me, I’ll try to come to you! xoxo http://www.fullcirclebooks.com/
Wrote it down Janie!
March first and I have a couple Sweet Peas blossoming! The Pussy Willows are popping too!The temperature was 80* here! I wonder if we will have Lion-like weather for Easter this year?
We have an unusual and wonderful bookstore that also includes a bakery, a food court, and a stage with live music and dancing on weekends. Each month there are presentations and book signings on the calendar. It is a great gathering place for people and would make a tip top spot for A Fine Romance. Very excited about your book and would love to meet you. It is called Third Place Books, Lake Forest Park Town Centre, Lake Forest Park, WA. Hope it would work for you…..
Wrote it down!
It makes me soooo happy to see those snow drops breaking through to bloom! The Queen Mary was a great idea. So appropriate for the book. That was the ship that brought my honey Ted over from Scotland to live in his new country when he was just 3 yrs old…1953. So many wishes for locations for your tour and I know you wish you could make them all come true but sadly, not possible. I know that I plan on traveling wherever that car will take us in a days trip to meet you and some of the Girlfriends. Also love that blue flower picture at the end of the post!
What a wonderful way to begin a new life! Yes, I do wish I could be everywhere. Darn country is gigantic!
sure would be great to see you within a 60 minute drive of Philadelphia
Marcia in Sewell (Gloucester County) NJ
Would love it if you made a stop here in Utah. I am in Park City but there are many places in Salt Lake that would work. I personally love the Grand America Hotel. The have tea service. It is a beautiful old time elegant place. The perfect place to meet !!!!!!
Will try for Salt Lake too Janice!
Yeah!!!!!
Hello Susan! Glad to see your Snowdrops have bloomed! Spring is just around the for corner!! My heart started beating faster when I read another girlfriend’s suggestion of Mackinac Island, Michigan as a possible book signing sight! Oh please come to Michigan!! If you want to keep your traveling to the Lower Pennisula, The Henry Ford (Greenfield Village & The Henry Ford Museum) are beautiful historical settings for a cup of tea!!! They are located in Dearborn, Michigan………my hometown!!!!! Dreaming………..I’m dreaming!!!
So fun to hear all of these wonderful ideas, I have bits of paper everywhere with notes on them!
Pin them to a BIG map of the US:)
Girlfriends! Call your favorite book store in your area and ask about Susan visiting and signing books. Get your friends to call. I met Susan at Conner Prairie in Indiana, years ago (2004), and still cherish the memory. Interest from possible book purchasers (and who can refuse another book) will get the attention of the sellers. I know that a lot of us have pre-ordered the book, but by the time the signing takes place we will all need more books for gifts. Just think, a little help in this area means you would at least, get to say “Hello” to Susan, and Joe is usually in the area. It’s too bad we won’t get to meet Girl Kitty and Jack. I will be calling Conner Prairie on Monday. Who knows what may come of a couple of telephone calls.
A couple of you girls called a bookstore up in Danville CA and they got in touch with me, so it works!
Hello Miss Pat, Connor Prairie is “doable” for me so Good Luck with your Monday phonecall!!! I visited there when my daughter’s class went to tour in 5th Grade and it was very interesting. Let me know if another phone call would help the cause….I’m in.
I went to Connor Prairie years ago — it was wonderful and that’s what made me fall in love with Indiana! My mom came with me, we went on the train together.
Are you coming to San Francisco? Book Passages, a wonderful small, independently owned bookstore in Corte Madera, does regular book signings. It is a ten minute drive north of the Golden Gate Bridge.
What about right in your own backyard – maybe next spring or summer? The Bunch of Grapes is one of my favorite bookstores, and it would be a great excuse to make a day-trip or weekend outing to the Vineyard for those of us nearby. And you wouldn’t have to travel at all – just roll out of bed and walk down the street – how easy it that! On the other hand, the Houston Quilt Festival would be a great venue -although it’s HUGE, but lots of fun. Maybe you could bring some of your fabrics with you as well!!!!
I’ll definitely do that next year on the island!
Susan — Maybe we should find a way to send all these Emails to the Queen Mary in Long Beach harbor to show them what a great publicity opportunity this would be for them — a kind of friendly “petition”. And I agree with one of the other Girlfriends — they should be paying YOU to sign your book there! Don’t get me wrong, all of us San Diego Girlfriends would still want you to come to our beautiful city even if the Queen Mary bows to the overwhelming support for having a booksigning/tea there. I wouldn’t mind going to two, or more! 🙂
It couldn’t hurt! 🙂 No matter what though, we’ll find someplace!
I found one! An authentic English tea room in Carefree, AZ. Go to http://www.carefreetea.com. Looks like something you would like. Hold on, still looking!
We are going to try and make it down there, it looks wonderful!
Congratulations on the dawn of spring.
…dear Jack….I do believe you and my father would get along so famously !!!…yes, he could be called an “iron man”…like you, he so loves life !!…thanks for mentioning Him..’ love when you comment…you so remind me of my dear father !!!!…take care…by the way,probably goes with out saying but, you must be so proud of your daughter and all of her accomplishments !!
Ooo! Ooo! I just have to share with you, Susan my favorite tea room in Seattle! I don’t know why I didn’t think of this sooner because it’s called the Queen Mary Tea Room! Perfect name, don’t you think? 🙂 It’s been my favorite place for many years to celebrate birthdays. In fact, the QM is the oldest independent tea room in America and was included in Bruce Richardson’s book “The Great Tea Rooms of America”. It’s a small place, so I don’t think all of us girlfriends would fit in there at once. But when/if you are in Seattle, you must have tea there! Queen Mary also has a retail store down the street from the tea room called the Tea Emporium where she sells everything tea and England. It would be a great place to sell your book! It’s also a smallish place, so if you did a book signing there we would probably all be wound around the block a few times. The weather is nice in here in September so that could work, but anyway, a little rain doesn’t stop us here! Here’s the link to the Queen Mary: queen-mary-tea.myshopify.com/pages/about-our-tea-room. Ohhh…I hope you’ll come! I really really reeeeaaaallllly want you to come to Seattle (or Issaquah) so I hope I’ve done my part to convince you to visit the beautiful Pacific Northwest. I don’t know how you will choose between all of the wonderful places everyone has told you about! Dreaming and planning is often half the fun of any trip so I hope it will be lots of fun for you. I know it will be fun for all of us!
LOVE it! Definitely would love to go to this place! Thanks Heidi Rose!
Hi, Susan ~
I’ve been thinking… I have one idea you might like…
There’s a very happy little, lakeside village in central NY (only about 15 minutes from my house!) – Skaneateles. It’s a most beautiful area, especially in the summer.You might have heard of it… President and Mrs. Clinton have vacationed here and I think it was actually named “The happiest place to live” in NY several years ago.
Every holiday season, they hold “A Dickens’ Christmas”. It runs every weekend from the day after Thanksgiving through Christmas so that may give you some flexibility in scheduling. I think they will be in their 20th season this year! Charles Dickens and his entire cast roam the streets in full costume and interact with shoppers and visitors. Skaneateles is well-known for unique shops, restaurants and of course the amazing lake front. You can take a horse-drawn carriage ride, sample roasted chestnuts and enjoy all sorts of special events, scheduled throughout the Dickens Christmas weekends. I’m quite certain they hold a tea party, also, with “the Queen”. I know you would love it here and I also know that you have so many adoring fans in this area.
From the train station in Syracuse, it’s less than half an hour away, about the same distance from another small city in NY, Auburn and within 2 hrs of Rochester.
My friend, Nettie, and I would love to be your personal assistants (your minions) for the weekend! (I know she won’t mind that I just volunteered her :))
I think you can contact the Skaneateles Chamber of Commerce or go to skaneateles.com to learn more. Hope this is something that you’ll consider!
No matter…if you settle on a place within several hours of Weedsport…I will be there!
xoDebbie
My Girlfriend Margot grew up in Skinny-Atlas, which is what I always thought she was saying! Such a beautiful little town! Who wouldn’t love to be there at Christmas time! Thank you Debbie!
My Girlfriend Margot grew up in Skinny-Atlas, which is what I always thought she was saying! Such a beautiful little town! Who wouldn’t love to be there at Christmas time! Thank you Debbie!
Hi Susan,
I just had a wonderful two days working with Children’s Authors and illustrators as a member of committee for the Charlotte Huck Children’s Literature Festival here at the University of Redlands. So terrific, and I had a chance to tell so many women about your blog and your upcoming book and talk to them about my dream. I have put a great deal of thought and dreaming and pre-planning into your possible visit to Redlands, California. Sometimes, the time is right to put our dreams into action and this one seems to be coming together perfectly… we just need you!
Redlands has its own castle, Kimberly Crest, built in 1897. John A. Kimberly, founder and president of Kimberly Clark corporation, bought this lovely estate as a retirement home in 1905. The home stayed in this family for 75 years and was eventually bequeathed to the “people of Redlands” when Mrs. Mary Kimberly Shirk, daughter of the Kimberlys, passed away in 1979. This estate, like so many in England, is now used for special events, garden weddings, and tours. You can find more information about it on the web at http://www.kimberlycrest.org
In Redlands you will also find the Redlands Bowl. A “spirited woman” named Grace Mullen dreamed of creating a place where people could come together as a community and enjoy professional performing arts free of charge. Her dream began to take shape in 1923 and in 1924 the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival held its first concert. It’s been going strong ever since! In 1930 a stunning Prosellis structure was donated by Clarence and Florence White for the purpose of the festival and other city events. The ampitheater, which has both bench and lawn seating, can seat 6,000 people. Each year over 100,000 people enjoy summer nights filled with world class music and dance programs under the stars.
On the Prosellis is the saying “Without Vision, a People Perish.” Our commmunity is the fortunate beneficiary of the determined vision and “impossible dream” of Grace and the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival. More information can be found at http://www.redlandsbowl.com
We would like to bring you out to Redlands this fall for a book signing and lovely tea that would be a fundraiser to support one of these two organizations.
We have the caterer, we have the location, and we have many lovers of your work right here in our little town… just about an hour east of Pasadena… and Vroman’s, which I know you said you’d like to visit.
I’d like to send you some more information via “snail mail.” Could you or Joe perhaps contact me via email, so I’ll know how to get it to you?
Thank you for all you do!
We will contact you Marsha, this sounds wonderful!
Hooray!
Looking forward to it!!
I think a person could go through these comments, write down all the interesting places and good tea shops and sort them out by city and state, and probably be able to travel across the country hitting a lot of nice places! LOL! 🙂
And, we’d be seeing all our GFs at those nice places! XO
Please please please come to Andersons Bookstore in Naperville IL….you won’t be disappointed in this sweet town….my husband and I go there just to sit and watch the dog parade on the Riverwalk…I always shop Andersons for my classroom such knowledgeable folk!
Andersons Bookstore is on my list Becky! Thank you!
Sorry if this is a repeat. I thought I posted earlier, but don’t see it, so here goes! Please come to Michigan. I see Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel has been recommended and that would be a fabulous setting. Another option, closer to home for me, would be Meadowbrook Hall in Rochester, MI. It’s a Tudor style mansion built by Matilda Dodge Wilson, the widow of one of the Dodge brothers, and her second husband. It has lovely gardens and there’s even a playhouse on the grounds that was built to scale for their daughter. You could have a tea and book signing there and they have large rooms so lots of girlfriends could come!
Thank you Barb, I have put it on my list of places to look into!