✔ Write Book. Check! Provide MUSICA. ✔ Check!
Not going to check celebrate off my list ever — but my cup runneth over this week.
XOXOXOXOXO
This is how I feel inside. Giddy. Grateful, relieved, joyous, and I have to say, I feel proud. And you know what else?
It’s my birthday on Friday! And it’s Gladys Taber’s birthday too! Makes me so happy to share my birthday with her!
I can’t believe, only a year ago today, we were plotting our course across the sea . . .
Here we were, off to England! Remember? Looking through the photos this morning gave me that same little quiver of thrill I felt when we were doing this! I had to look at all the little videos again too. Here we were, on our way, with lots of blank diary pages to fill in, and no real idea what was going to happen.
And now, all the pages are filled in with stories and watercolors and I just finished writing the flaps for the dust jacket for our book, the diary of our journey! And that’s it. A Fine Romance is done girlfriends! Eleven months later, our book is done! And the truth is, as you know (this book is proof positive) that nothing happens unless first we dream. And if we do, we can do anything. And now I have an all new To Do List. The first thing on it: Show the girlfriends what Jack has been up to! So let’s put a big ✔ mark next to that one too.
Hi Jackieboy . . .
Here’s the little darling. Yesterday. Such a beautiful day, springtime on Martha’s Vineyard, I thought I would give him a front row seat to the great outdoors.
I opened the door in the pantry and moved the ironing board in front of it, which he loved and spent almost all day lounging there.
He didn’t lounge the entire time. He started looking around seemed interested in this new viewpoint. What’s up THERE? It looks interesting up there. I’m going up!
One leap and there he was. No, I’m fine — I don’t care that the door is only two inches thick, I was born to do this. It’s my special talent. Calm down little mama. Mmmmm, smells wonderful on the top of the door. Purrrrrrrr.
Here too … this plate! Marvelous! And my sense of balance is outstanding! Look Ma, no hands!
Up up and away! Ha-ha, you can’t reach me! I wish you would quit calling and making those kissing noises to try to get me to come down, I like it here, leave me alone. You are not the boss of me. (that’s what he thinks!)
OK, happy now? This is where I, the human, took back over — I put my camera down and reached up on my tip toes and got his legs and mooshed him off the door. I didn’t want him to jump — if the ironing board collapsed he’d scare us both! I have to say, he 
lets me hold him and he wiggles and I pet him all over and roll him around, he’s so soft, and he lets me hug him and sometimes he even cuddles back and we are cheek to cheek and he gets kissed about a thousand times. There’s a window he loves to look out that he can’t reach, he knows I will hold him up to look out, he jumps into my arms in front of that window. I adore this kitty with all the fiber of my being. I’m a goner. He’s never getting outside! It would be like sending my heart outside to play! ♥
We still throw and play with his ponytail bands every day, which could never be enough for him. He just loves it. So there you go, show the girls what Jack’s been up to. ✔ Check! (It’s a red letter day, getting so much done! 🙂 )
Jack can’t go out, but I sure can. Yesterday was an amazing sunny cool spring day, and suddenly, I had no book to write! I hung our forsythia wreath on the front door, then Joe and I went over and got Martha and we all walked past the picket fences and the old white New England houses, under the budding trees down to Main Street where went out to lunch to Moxie for the first time in months! Yum, pulled-pork tacos and we didn’t even have to make them or do the dishes! Afterward, we wandered through Bunch of Grapes, our bookstore, and then across the street to Nochi (you would love it there); we bought soap for Joe and earrings for me and Martha bought cute new glasses (round!). Doesn’t that sound like the perfect day? It was. So, Play. Badda Boom. ✔ Check!
When we got home I worked on the Peter Rabbit Room, put clean sheets on the bed and made perfect hospital corners, fluffed the pillows, opened the windows and let fresh air blow through whistling “good bye winter,” because tomorrow my darling friend Elizabeth is coming from California. Today I fill her room with cuttings of forsythia from the garden. Get Peter Rabbit Room ready. ✔ Check! Tra la!
Before we went to lunch yesterday, I went and had the yearly check of my birthday suit by my dermatologist … making sure all my freckles are still behaving themselves. Got a clean bill of health, for which Lunch was my reward, and another ✔ mark on the list: Freckle Check. Done!
I hope you all put this on your To-Do-List — it’s so easy. I am queen of the human chickens when it comes to medical stuff, and this is really one of the easiest things to do to make sure your bikini years aren’t catching up with you.
Ahhh girlfriends, those were the days!
♥ ♥ ♥
It’s my party and I can cry if I want to!
No, I am definitely not crying. Happy is what I am. And lucky. There’s so much more on my list of to-do’s which I will be happy to share with you soon. House stuff, book stuff, diet stuff, cooking stuff, garden stuff, and at the top of the list is write a new WILLARD. I love my to do list, there’re so many good things on it! Until then, I will leave you with something that makes absolutely no sense . . .
I had to do it, because this girl is just so cute, so adorable and was such a nice part of my childhood … my mother loved her, so she introduced her to me when I was little. I’ve given you this one before, but some songs deserve airings in each season and this is one of them . . . You go Shirley (in Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm. If you haven’t seen it, you should, and show it to all the little people in your life — it might work for them as it has for me and give them a lifetime of happiness — I know not every day is sunshine and roses . . . but even in the worst of times, when the world seems out of control, I slip in this DVD and everything feels better)♥.
And so dearest darlings, time for us to head out on our walk. Lovely to see you here! And Blog ✔ Check! Bye for now! xoxoxo
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN!!! I’m so glad you had a good checkup and congratulations on finishing your book. So exciting. Now you can enjoy spring and summer and share that with all of us. I so appreciate your sharing. That Jack, what a talent he is! Have a great Birthday, you deserve it!!
Jackie
Dear Susan, It sure has been a busy time before Easter getting ready to go up North, sending out all the Easter cards and birthday cards before we left so I wouldn’t have to think about it while away. Now we’re home and my computer is on the fritz and so sometimes I can’t read or send. Today is my lucky day though. My son is coming in a couple of weeks and will fix all this I hope.
Jack seems so happy to have your full attention and loves playing with the ponytail bands. How is girl kitty doing?
We have long been fans of Shirley Temple movies too….. America’s sweetheart.
I also have a long to do list and feel so great as I cross things off of it.
Our company is starting this month and then in May, June, July, and August. I love to see everyone and can’t wait. It’s mostly all relatives. My cousin and her husband “might” be coming too from Ireland and that will be wonderful.
Hope you have a wonderful birthday……..will be thinking of you and remembering Gladys on Friday. God’s blessings! Hugs, Gail & Joe Buss, Fl
Glad to have you here Gail, have fun with your company!
Happy birthday Susan! You have so many reasons to celebrate and to think we get to tag along on your many adventures.
Enjoy!
HALLELUJAH!!! “Celebrate, Celebrate, Dance to the music!!” Have you danced your Happy Dance yet?! Congratulations on finishing your book And checking off so many things on your list already! You go Girl!! Thanks for sharing Jack’s antics with us! So glad you have him to keep you laughing and on your tippy-toes! Thank goodness he has good balance! We once had a kitty that would fall off the edge of the windowsill! He never hurt himself, though! He once broke one of my teacups, but I forgave him! They find a way to steal themselves into your heart!
I haven’t watched a Shirley Temple movie in Years! Always wanted to tap dance like she did, as a child. Have you read her biography?
Well, enjoy your freedom!! So looking forward to seeing the book as soon as it’s published!
Wishing you Lots of Birthday Blessings on Friday!!
Congratulations on finishing the book! It is going to be hard to wait for it in the mail but I am so looking forward to receiving my copy. Happy Birthday on Friday I hope you have a great celebration. Love the pictures of Jack! Enjoyed the Shirley Temple memories you brought back of rainy days spent inside watching her movies on tv. A couple of days ago I saw that our e-library has movies to download for free and there are Shirley Temple movies among them. I will be watching those soon.
Congratulations Susan on finishing your book and you upcoming birthday all in the same week!!! The books sounds so full of beautiful stories and places and a concrete way to share you and Joe’s 25 year anniversary promise to each other. I can hardly wait till they come out next Fall!!!!!
I so understand your love of Jack Kitty. He has so much personality and a winning disposition. The photos of him are always so delightful to see. We love our kitty, Mr. Bump the same way!! He is always into mischief and looking to get us into one of his pick up games like toss the ball or hide the mouse! I can’t resist him. He pretty much has me giving him any and every thing he wants. Hahaha!!
Looking froward to hearing more about what is on your various lists as you find more time these days to write to us here!! Have a wonderful birthday celebration on Friday!!
Happy Birthday dear Susan on Friday! And congratulations on the completion of “A Fine Romance” (which I preordered on the first day!). To think that you had not even left on your adventure this time last year and now you have drawn, painted and written your way through all those memories to create a treasure for us is pure inspiration! I have sorely missed you while you have been writing so very glad your were able to place the final check beside that task. Enjoy your visit from your dear friend, the walks in springtime bliss and your darling husband. (Oh yes, a kiss for sweet Jack too). Love and thanks, Chris (your Reseda soulmate)
Hi Chris! The nice thing was how long this trip lasted! By doing the book, it lasted all this time, and now it’s indelible!
Dear Susan,
Congratulations on the book (yay!) and also best wishes on your birthday!
Sounds like you have been already enjoying both, I know that we all can’t wait to read that book! I’m excited too because next weekend our CT chapter of the Friends of Gladys Taber is meeting, and that means that I get to see lots of friends who love Gladys and you too! I have you to thank for bringing this wonderful group to my attention. I always think of you and Gladys in April, two people who have brought a lot of richness to my life with your wonderful writing.
So thank you and have a very Happy Birthday!
Karen
Thank you Karen!
My “To Do” list today:
Walk
Enjoy the sunshine and lovely mild temperatures
Enjoy a breakfast smoothie
Stop at the library to check out some quilting books
Take a ‘cookbook class’ at the mall – recipes ‘from the kitchen garden’
Get a dose of happy by checking the Susan Branch blog! 🙂
I’d say I’ve had a very nice day! 🙂
By the way – I loved the Shirley Temple picture and reminder to check out her movies – I always smile to myself and think that I really should dislike her – my mother always wanted me to have “Shirley Temple curls” – and I was ‘tortured’ on many occasions when she gave me a Tonette Perm – she finally gave up by the time I was in 3rd grade – Sigh – no curls – and I couldn’t dance either – what can I say? 🙂
You have a great talent, you are an appreciator!
SusaN, Congratulations on the completion of your latest book. I’m excited for you and can’t wait to have my copy in hand to relive your wonderful trip. I’m always making ‘check off lists’ too and know what a great feeling it is when that check mark goes on the page. Happy B’day in advance. Boy, do you have a LOT to celebrate this year! Hugs from NJ….
Early Happy Birthday to you, Susan; spring is making an appearance there and here on the farm and that’s both a blessing and a gift. My birthday is tomorrow, Thursday, and I think I’m going to play hooky. Looking forward, anxiously, to The Book , thank you so much. Happy Birthday to ewe…
sorry. I have sheep so get carried away.
They do that to a person. 🙂
Dear Susan ~
Happy Birthday to you on Friday! It was a marvelous day when you were born ~
a world changer!!! I hope your day is full of wonderful surprises and “kisses” from above. Can’t wait to get my book in the mail!!!
Love you oceans,
Carol
That bikini shot of you is just too cute.
Have a fun birthday weekend!!
xoxoxo Miss you
Sue, I’m so happy, happy, happy, for you!! Applause, applause, applause!
You share such a kindred spirit with Gladys Tabor; but, I also think you and Shirley Temple were cut from the same cloth! (Yes, you have the same twinkle in your eyes!) I just bought a DVD of “Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm”! What a joy and what a welcome addition to my growing Branch/Tabor Library!
Thank you for creating a dream world for us! Your happiness is so contagious and your spirit keeps us young-at-heart! Can’t wait for your book to come!
God Bless & have a Happy Birthday Blast!
Love & prayers! Bunny XO ;>)
You’re gonna love it Bunny! Look at the curtains at Sunnybrook Farm, and the roses on Tony’s porch!
It’s been 50 years or so since I’ve watched it! I’ll pay particular attention to every detail, especially the curtains and the roses. That reminds me, I’ve planted Hydrangeas and Peonies near my herb garden over the past few years, but I must find another ‘Madame Hardy’rose bush like the one I had years ago. Old roses are such nice companions!
Did I ever mention that hubby & I ‘saved’ a Circa 1812 log cabin & rebuilt it on our farm. Beside it grows a wild rose bush taken from the original Perkins cabin site in SE OH dating back to 1798. It feels like reaching back in time!
wonderful Bunny!
As they say in the “old country”. Hartellijk gefeliciteerd met je verjaardag!
Which means; “Cordial Congratulations on your Birthday!” In the Netherlands, most families & friends come together to celebrate one’s birthday on their day. As each person comes into the birthday person’s home, he/she goes around the room, and greets each person in attendance with “Hartelijk gefeliciteerd met Susan’s verjaardag!” and shakes each one’s hand.
Then they share in special cakes, sandwiches, coffee, beer and wine! It’s a wonderful tradition to share with family and friends!
Happy birthday Susan! May you be blessed with many more; for and with those who love you most!
How very wonderful to hear about birthdays in the Netherlands. I could just picture it. Thank you Elly!
Delightful!
Elly, I remember from living in Amsterdam, that the child’s breakfast chair was bedecked with streamers, rosettes, small balloons, even tiny toys. It was a wonderful way for the birthday child to start her day, especially if she had to go to school after breakfast!
Susan (from Vermont);
You’re right, I’d forgotten about that tradition!
My mom really loved birthdays, and we, as children, were sure to decorate her chair when it was her birthday! Thanks for stirring up that memory for me~
Congratulations! What an accomplishement for you and joy for me as I know my pre-ordered “A Fine Romance” is that much closer to arriving on my doorstep. Enjoy some well deserved time off…that’s it, add “well deserved time off” to your checklist 🙂
Dearest Susan,
I used to LOVE Shirley Temple!!! She had a family home in Newport Beach and, if you take the scenic canal tour, they’ll point it out to you, even though she doesn’t live there anymore. John Wayne lived there, too!! Fancy that!
I LOVE the quilt on the ironing board! Now, how do you get kitty hair off of there before ironing all of your lovely linens? Jack is just so inquisitive, isn’t he?
You’re on a roll sista with checking off all those things….don’t you look cute in that little bikini!! Darling….you always were and always will be!!!
I’m so excited, too!!!!!!!!!!!!! Besides planning a home, getting ready for Rod’s daughter’s graduation from college AND a wedding in the backyard in August (at their new home of my daughter’s), I’ve got my youngest daughter coming on Friday (your birthday) to celebrate HER birthday which is Saturday!! Her birthday is Saturday and she’ll be 30!!! I know….she’s older than you………since you’re 29, of course! (just our little secret)
We’re going to go to Boulder and have a lovely celebration dinner with friends and family and it will be lots of fun, so I’m fixing up the guest room, too!! Except I’m NOT opening the window because it’s like 17 degrees outside!! Monday it was almost 70!! We got like an inch of snow, but the front brought in big wind and a huge drop in temps, but it will warm up a little for the weekend….it has to!! She’s a California girl now and her little tootsies will freeze in this kind of weather!
I don’t have anything in the garden to snip; everything is brown and tucked under the ice and hard ground for awhile yet. Mother’s Day….that’s the ticket here. Don’t plant until Mother’s Day!
Well, good for you for checking things off the box.
Happy Birthday Susan………….and have fun with Elizabeth; I know you will!!
Love from Colorado,
Joann
xoxo
You are on a roll Joann, all good things happening! Now you need some spring!
Are you building a B & B?
Oh you lucky girl to have SPRING! We had about 4” of new snow last night and more to come tonight! Was going to take my pre-schoolers outdoors to pick up “litter”, since we are learning about taking care of the earth this week, and recycling…but guess we’ll have to wait! Happy Birthday dear Susan and may the good Lord bless you with many many more too! Have too much fun!!! [Your little Jack is quite the jack rabbit! ha!]
That is quite a big check; finishing your book. I’m encouraged that 11 months and a bit of focus can bring a dream to fruition. I may have to follow your lead. I will now eagerly await my pre-ordered copy and consider atempting to affix checks by some of my own dreams. I so enjoy finding your blog waiting for me in my little in-box. Thank you for sharing with all of us!
The focus is the more difficult part, the eleven months were going to pass anyway. Nice, so nice to have this book at the end of it. xoxo
Congratulations on the completion of A Fine Romance, can’t wait to read it! Jack is handsome as ever. xo
Yay! for finishing the book, playing, having company, shopping, your birthday, and especially for keeping Jack inside. Indoor kitties live much longer and are healthier. Thanks for your blog and a bright spot in a spring day!
“HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!” I have a list of my own…things to tell you!! Because of you I ordered 5 Gladys Tabor books and love them!! I’m currently reading “Conversations with Amber”…In 1972 I was a Freshman in Highschool and work cork shoes everyday…I think I could have walked on water in them!!! But my favorites were “Famolares”…I hope some of the girlfriends remember those shoes!…I completely understand how much you love your Jackie Boy…I adore my 2 girl kitties like children…I couldn’t love them more if I had given birth to them!!!…I just love “Kindred Spirits”!!!
Me too … thank you Angela!
Congratulations on finishing the latest book. I cannot wait until it is mailed, & yes I am a part of the pre-order group.
Also, Happy Birthday on Friday, mine is the following Tuesday, the 16th, so we are both Aries. You bought new earrings and I bought a new pendent on my trip to Iceland. We do love presents. Have a marvelous day.
Happy Birthday to you Rebecca!
I can’t wait for my book to arrive. I am so looking forward to reading it. Happy Birthday. I hope your day is a special one. Spring is in the air even here in Illinois where we have had some thunderstorms this morning. I can’t wait for the forsynthia to bloom and the violets and then in May my favorite, Lily of the Valley. Enjoy you wonderful life………………….
YAY! I’m so happy that you have finished your love story. I can’t wait to read it. When I was reading the little part that you have posted here I tried to scroll down to keep reading…but that was all that was there. No more. :o( BUT, I am getting your precious book and I’m going to sit and read until I can’t anymore. Thank you for sharing your wonderful life…and that Jack. Oh My what a fun, joyous little one he is. I wish my kitty would snuggle with me but she’s old now and is more content to lay in some fluffy blankets and sleep.
Thank you again…and HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!! on Friday.
Melissa
Thank you Melissa!
Susan, Happy Birthday…almost. I cherish the wealth of joy and love and silliness you lavish on us girlfriends. I celebrate you
Thank you Kathleen! See you at the Madonna Inn!
Hooray, hooray!!! So glad the book is finished. Can’t wait to receive it! It’s always good to have something to look forward to!!!! It might sound selfish but I’m also glad because now you’ll be able to spend more time with all of us! It was so good to see Jack again. Congratulations on your accomplishments and please have a most wonderful birthday!!!!!
Hi Susan,
Thank you so much for a perfectly wonderful post!!! Happy Birthday!
Your little kitty boy is wonderful too. I love his and your adventures that you share. So very special. May you have a wonderful year full of all that is special and wonderful to you.
Congratulations on finishing your book. Waiting for it to be on my doorstep.
Happy Spring,
Kathy
Some of my FAVORITE people are Aries, so a big Happy Birthday! You gave yourself the ultimate present, didn’t you. Smart Girl, create your own happiness! Will you make yourself a yummy cake? Are you a chocolate lover or more of a spice lover? Maybe a whipped cream and fruit dessert? Aren’t these great choices? Were the earrings your gift to you for your special day? Remember it’s not the years, but the mileage, and we can roll back the audiometer by walking, reducing stress, and eating quality food……like birthday cake. Love from California:)
Excellent advice! 🙂 I like everything, cake wise xoxo Becky, thank you!
Susan my most sincere congratulations to you (and Joe!) on your 11 months of working hard to completion!! I cannot wait to read your love story. I too visited England once in 2002 and have a dear girlfriend lving in Ealing whom I need to go see very soon!! Your book and blog entries will help me with this trip one day.
Thank you and happy spring cleaning hahahaa!!!
That’s what we’ve been doing! It’s looking good! Unless you look too close! But that’s coming too, first thing’s first.
A BIG sigh of relief and LOUD hand clapping and a hip hip HURRAH! UFF DA, the book is done … la, la, la tra. Whew, just in time for your Birthday (man, you were quite a “chick” in that bathing suit:) and, hopefully SPRING will get to you northerners soon.
My “Sissy” in WI says its snowing today and there is ice on the kitchen window. Not to worry, that is just Mother Nature tugging with Winter on one end and Spring on the other. It will prob be 80 degrees next week.
Been missing our little darling, Jack (and you too). Fun to see his antics – smooch, smooch. Nice little eatery you have and happy to see you strolled a bit. I’m sure your mailbox runnth (I don’t have spellcheck here:( over with loving wishes for your Birthday in TWO days. Will Joe make you a cake??? I know he is a good cook – if so, something with coconut I’ll bet. How nice you will have one of your old friends with you to celebrate. ttfn judi
Happy Birthday, Sweet Sue! I’m so happy for you that you finally finished the book! Is Joe doing back-handsprings to have you all to himself again? I’m happy for me too, because that means A Fine Romance is headed toward being published, and then I can have it and read it over and over! (sigh) It’s hard waiting… 🙂
Okay, Jack is seriously cute, and his eyes “say” so much! I just love Jack! (but shh! don’t tell my cats, Bonnie, Clyde, Ellie, and Smoky!)
Birthday hugs from Texas!
Looking forward to the book! So happy that you can relax and celebrate your accomplishment. HAPPY BIRTHDAY on Friday…it’s my birthday too….just a bit older than you are…celebrate you!
Well happy birthday Sue … after a while, I think we’re all the same age!
Happy Birthday! Hope you are having a great day. It is cold and rainy here in Buffalo, NY so my birthday picnic will be inside today! I did wake to find all my baby daffodils in bloom…very nice gift. Have an extra piece of cake for me, and I will have an extra one for you 🙂
Susan! Did I REALLY read that correctly? Your book is….. FINISHED? The index, the spine, the inking… Everything? The kit and the kaboodle? Whooo Hooo! You Go GIRL!
I can remember watching you sail out under the Verranzano Bridge and snapping the picture just as the QM2 was almost out of view! Oh I am so Happy! CELEBRATION TIME. Your Book… Your health… Your Birthday all rolled up with SPRING!
check, check, check!!!
I’m celebrating checklists too! Get Dad to the hospital… check! Find out the cause of his problem… check! Get his bloodwork numbers in line… check! Still on the horizon ~ Get Dad back home again! Soon Girlfriend… Soon!
Isn’t it FUN to Celebrate Celebrations?
xoxo Georgie from NJ
Here’s to getting Dad home again Georgie!
Happy Soon to Be Birthday, Susan! Finishing your book must feel like a fantastic present to yourself. I can hardly wait for it to arrive this summer.
Good work ole girl, got her all done before your birthday which is Saturday I think??? Happy before the day birthday. Your blogs make my heart sing. Congratulations for completing the book!
We are kindred spirits Susan. Even though our lives are completely different, you live the life I would live if it were possible! Happy Birthday!
Thank you Cynthia!
Happy Birthday ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ To You! ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ Happy Birthday ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ To You! ♥ ♥ ♥ Happy Birthday ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ Dear Susan!! ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ Happy Birthday ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ To You!!! ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪
இڿڰۣ”*•Happy, Happy Birthday, Susan!•*”இڿڰۣ
✞May God’s Richest Blessings Be Yours Today and Always!✞
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ•´¯`•♥
║║╔═╦╦╦═╗♥♫•¸.•´¯`•.♥
║╚╣║║║║╩╣ and {{{{Hugs}}}!!, Linda
╚═╩═╩═╩Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ•.¸¸.•´¯`•♥
~~~~~~~~~
A little trip down memory lane for Joe. . . (ツ)❤
A Little Bit of Stratford Ct.
youtu.be/visJpNK-gN0
I called him in to look at it, no question about it, that was Stratford and the music was excellent!
Happy, Happy Birthday Susan Dear. Happy Days will come to you all year. If I had a wish, then it would be a Happy, Happy Birthday to you from me. That’s a song our cute little church children sing to each other. They love its novelty.
And so it seems Jack has a new office.
Spring on our little island in the opposite ocean is going full swing with blossomings and flowerings and green pastures and wind chimes and oh, the sun shining off the water. Lovely…
Dear Susan: What a treat to find your blog in my mailbox! It was just the excuse I needed to stay inside and take a break from cleaning out the garage! I got me a cup of steaming hot coffee and settled down to read every word — and checked the links to the Peter Rabbit room — soooo cute! Congratulations on completing your book! I can’t wait to get mine! And happy birthdy! I know you will have a wonderful day. Thanks for transporting us to a lovely, charming world. Now I’m inspired and ready to tackle the garage again! Hugs and blessings, Jane
Happy Birthday Susan! And congratulations on completing the book!
Congratulations, on the book, Susan. I wish you a very happy birthday. I hope your year is filled with health and happiness. Many blessings to you and Joe.
Thank you so much Debby!
Hi Susan, I just loved, loved, loved this post! I can feel your happiness, it is contagious!! Congratulations on finishing your book, and thank you for sharing so much of your life with us. The Jack update really touched my heart, and I am so glad you won’t let him outside – I have two young boy cats myself and would worry myself sick if they went outdoors.
Your happiness will rub off on so many of us girlfriends, I know that in the next few days whenever I think of you I will smile, and my heart will be filled with gladness!!
xoxoxo,
Joan B.
Congratulations! I cannot wait for my copy!!! Love the Jack update and the pictures, especially the one of him on the ironing board facing the camera….and on top of the cupboards….my Lucy does that too and looks down on us like “na-na
you can’t get me!” Happy, Happy Birthday to you on Friday!!! 😉
Cake! Do I smell Cake? I think all us girlfriends should have cake on Friday in honor of your birthday. (any excuse :o) ) Hope it’s the best birthday ever, and that you’ll post a picture or two of the celebration. Congratulations on finishing the book, and thanks for all you do!
It’s already the best birthday ever…I feel very blessed! Thank you Peggy!
Thank you for the ukulele musica! It’s hard to be down when there’s a ukulele playing. (We are big uke enthusiasts in our family.) Your whole post was a ray of sunshine and just made me happy to be alive.
Have a very happy birthday! April IS a great month for a birthday. We are celebrating my youngest daughter’s 12th today and, for fun, I lined up my Beatrix Potter figurines into a little parade across the table for her. They are holding little signs that say things like”Happy Birthday” and “Hooray for Sarah.” She loved it!
I’m sure she did, there is nothing like twelve years old. My favorite year.
Susan,
I was wondering, did you make your quilted ironing board cover? I love it!
Julie (wondering…) in MO
No, I found that in a giant antique mall somewhere in the middle of the country! But it would be so easy to make if you had the quilt to do it with. It’s a great ironing board cover, nice and thick.
Thank you 🙂
Oh, I’m so happy for you that the book is finished and you can celebrate in so many ways.
You deserve it so much. Have a wonderful birthday and a great visit with your friend from
California. (My birthday is December 24 th….hmmm!). Enjoy the springtime!!
Susan, you are too marvelous! It’s like you can read a person’s mind. I had the doors open on Monday to bring fresh early spring air inside. Then I made my spring to-do list and prioritized it – put clean the windows and french doors at the very top. Then I made a glass of half ice tea and half lemonade and sat on the front porch and read for an hour. What utter bliss!
Congratulations on finishing the book and getting back to plain vanilla activities like playing with Jackson. BTW, Happy Birthday this Friday, sweet girl! I’ll be celebrating 33 years of bliss with my best friend (my husband) on the same day! TTFN!
Congratulations to you two! Half lemonade and half iced tea is my favorite!
So you love “Arnold Palmers”? Me too. Happy birthday! I am sure Joe made it very special for you. Xoxo
I do, and the other drink that’s really good and kind of like an Arnold Palmer.. is sparkling water, seltzer water, with a splash of lemonade…very refreshing!
Happy Birthday! Happy Spring! Happy Book’s-All-Finished! I celebrated by buying myself the dear Emma Bridgewater bunny mug….was so happy to see that it’s back in your web store:) Susan, I love it that you and Gladys Taber share the same birthday. I’ve no words to express how much both of you mean to me…sounds sappy, but the two have you have brought such a sence of joy and comfort and contentment into my life theough your books, and in your case, theough your blogs. A few years ago I was blessed to be able to visit Stillmeadow,Gladys’ beloved home in CT, with a lovely group of fans from the Friends of Gladys Taber group. How I treasure that trip. This fall, I hope to meet you at one of the book signings for our book! I truly feel that the two of you are kindred spirits.
I feel it too, and that includes the rest of us too, seems we’ve found each other!
so happy the book is DONE can’t wait to read it, mine is pre-ordered of course and Happy Birthday Susan. I am also an April baby as is my grandson-mine is next Wed. the 17th and his was the 7th.
Happy Birthday Pam!
CONGRATULATIONS!!! You’re done it – finishd your book. What a fantastic accomplishment. You certainly deserve to celebrate and I will definitely celebrate when I receive my copy of your masterpiece!! 🙂
Also – Have a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY and may all the joy and fun and beauty you share with us come back to you a thousand fold.
Best wishes and hugs,
Ruth
Maple Ridge, BC, Canada
Your wish for me is coming true, it comes back a thousand fold. Thank you Ruth xo
Susan Branch,I just love you!
xoxo
Yippee our book is finished. Congratulations! I am anxiously awaiting its arrival in my mail box. Here’s my early wishes for a spectacular birthday. All the very best to a wonderful example of a fantastic girlfriend. Happy Birthday.
I think we are the perfect definition of the word “girlfriends!” Supportive, positive, loving, loyal. Who could ask for anything more.
Soo, not sure if I should wait until Friday to wish you a “Happy Birthday” or not. Oh, knowing me I better do it now so I don’t forget! And of course I am a firm believer in celebrating birth days, birth weeks and birth months. So Happy Birth Week, Susan!
Thanks for sharing Spring and Jack (not necessarily in that order). Winter storm a’coming to MN and chasing Spring away. But I know it will return!
I was thinking about you today, thinking how much I have missed hearing from you. I know you have been sooo busy and I am sooo excited to receive my book. Thank you for sharing with me and all of us, your wonderful experiences in my favorite place. I do hope my sweet loved one’s and I make a trip someday. We’ll see.
Happy, Happy Birthday to such a sweet person, deserving of sweet things!! Gladys Taber, another favorite of mine, Happy Birthday in memory of her and her beautiful thoughts, she shared with us. I’m reading, Stillmeadow Sampler, at this time. I am collecting her books, love her!!!
Have a wonderful, fun weekend and Birthday!!!!
Blessings to you!!!!
Bobbie
Thank you Bobbie … we are kindred spirits when it comes to Gladys!
Hi Bobbie Ann….I haven’t read Stillmeadow Sampler yet, our local library doesn’t carry it. But I am currently reading Stillmeadow Calendar and I am in love with this book! Gladys had the best descriptive powers, you feel like you are right there with her! Kind of like Susan’s narratives!
Best wishes for a very happy birthday from yet another fan who appreciates your e-mails full of charming paintings and gorgeous photos. Hoping it won’t be long until you’re sharing some news from California. Your posts have got me dreaming of retiring to our native state from the cold winters of Wisconsin someday (soon).
PS Our parrot loves to join the bird singing when I check out new postings to your site.
If a dream is the first step, sounds like you’re on your way, Sue!
Such an accomplishment, Susan…all of it! I wish you a Happy, Happy Birthday, and it’s mine, too!! (I put your new book on my wish list…shhhh…I think I may get that wish!!)
Have a blessed day!
Lori in TX
Wow, what a week you are having, my friend! Your excitement totally boings off the “pages” of the blog. Do you know the song “You Did It!” from ‘My Fair Lady?’ As I’m reading along it popped into my head, playing along like a soundtrack. Or musica! Did you time it that way & scramble like a fiend to finish up before your birthday? Or did the heavens just decree it to be? Anyway, it’s great! Pretty impressive too, might I add… You did the research, writing, illustrating and hand-lettering of a 260-page book in less than a year! An awesome accomplishment! And even though you loved doing it, what a relief it must be to have it finished! That wonderful LIGHT feeling! I remembering feeling that when I finished my bachelor’s degree. I loved school all my life but by the age of 21 I was really ready to do something else for a while. It was so great to being able to choose what I WANTED to read, rather than what I HAD to read. And so now we wait….
Did you know you also share your b-day with David Letterman, Andy Garcia [hubba hubba] and Vince Gill? And my foodie calendar declares April 12 as “Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day.” Knew you’d wanna know. :>)
Jack Be Nimble. That lil character is a stone riot as always. I can’t believe he didn’t topple all the goodies on top of the shelving onto the floor. What dexterity! He’s not just cute, he’s an Olympic athlete! Not to mention your baby boy. My class is going to love the photos… :>)
So far I only have 2 Shirley Temple DVDs – “Bright Eyes” and “Captain January” but watching them is a total nostalgia trip. When I was little, her movies were run at 6 or 7 am on Saturday & Sunday mornings and being the oldest sometimes I was the only person awake in the house watching them. I was transported on so many adventures watching Shirley. So much so that now it’s 50 years later & I can still remember every word to every song. I wonder if she’ll ever know how much pleasure and fun she gave to so many children? Bless her heart – there’ll never be anyone like her again.
Happy Birthday Aries Girl! From my astrology journal, I’m finding the keywords for Aries are Pioneering, Leading and New Beginnings, the numbers are 1 and 9, the day is Tuesday and the healing note [for meditation] is D sharp. Plus some really exciting news! One of Aries’ countries is England! Cross my heart and no kidding! Psych! Oh yes, did the Green Thing arrive yet? I can’t wait to find out what your Dad sent!
OK I gotta stop before this comment before it morphs into a blog itself! Scary! My dad was right when he told me I talked so much when I was a toddler he used to tell people I was vaccinated with a phonograph needle! Hahaha! Again, Happiest B-Day Sue and many congrats on finishing “A Fine Romance!” xoxo :>)
There is no more perfect thing to share my day with than a Grilled Cheese sandwich .. so fitting! Thank you so much Janet!
Actually that’s what I sent ….a grilled cheese sandwich — I figured it would be green by when you opened it !
Elizabeth is coming this morning Dad, and we are opening your package together when I get home from getting my hair cut! Green, here I come!
lol!
OMG! Green for sure – and quite possibly so “ripe” it could walk out of the package on its own power! :>)
Hope you have a wonderful birthday. Enjoy your day. I was missing kitty so I just loved your pics and story. I love that cat. He is too cute.
Again Hope you have a wonderful birthday.
Karen
Congratulations on completing the book. I can’t wait to receive mine. Happy, happy birthday. Mine is next Friday. April is a great month to have a birthday. Lovely, lovely, lovely. Many hugs and all the happiness your heart can hold is my wish for you. The Lady in the Pink House
Thank you and Happy Birthday Di!
Congratulations on finishing your book! So happy for you – and me… I have pre-ordered my copy and am anxiously awaiting it’s arrival. Thank you so much for sharing all of it with us – all along the way. It has been so much fun.
Happy birthday! I hope you have a marvelous day and a fabulous year. Make the rest of your life the best of your life. I know you will. Friday is also my daughter’s birthday. She is also an intelligent, creative, wonderful, talented, hard-working woman. I have a lot to be thankful for. Oh happy day!
Enjoy the beautiful weather and your new freedom from book writing! And thanks again for sharing.
Happy Birthday! Birthdays should be celebrated for weeks, not just one day so I’m not really early…..Hope you have a grand time. Here is Sir Paul to start your celebration… youtu.be/MjF1bG5LUcs
Perfect!
Ta-Da! So great that the book is done. I’m already wishing my summer away so the time for the book to be in my hands is closer. Congratulations on your April birthday! Mine is Monday!! Yours is the same day as my godmother’s (she’s gone now). Take care. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!
Happy birthday Elaine!
Wow! Congratulations, Susan, on finishing your book!!! I can’t wait to see it! And a very happy birthday to you on Friday! I totally agree with you about Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm!!! 🙂
Susan! What wonderful news – wow! was that really a year ago when we watched you and Joe sail under the Verrazano? Can’t wait for the book!
Happy Spring!!! mari
Happy, joyous birthday, dear one. Celebrating all the light and goodness you share with everyone. I will say extra prayers for you, Joe and your family (kittens included). May all the graces you give us return to you in abundance.
Thank you Carmel!
Susan,
Wishing you a happy, happy birthday! So happy the book is finished, can’t wait to read it!
Spring is finally here!
Happy Birthday Susan! Hope your special day is full of surprises and wonders. I just celebrated my birthday on the 8th. Hooray, too, for finishing your book. Can’t wait to hold a copy in my hands and get lost in England. I knew were busily working to finish the book, but I checked every day to see if there was a posting from you. We all love hearing from you! I’m pretty sure there was a great glow of creativity over your beautiful island as you worked. You are a wonder and a treasure. Thank you for bringing light, love and giggles.
Thank you Kelley!
Oh, Susan! Congratulations on finishing THE book! When I looked at the photo of the QM2 leaving NY harbor, the memories (and adrenaline) of that launching came back to me. It was so exciting. An adventure like no other. And now the book is off to the printer. Can’t wait to see it. AND, the photos of Jack! Love hearing about your relationship with him. It reminds me of my relationship with my black and white darlings: Winston and Bentley, springer spaniels extraordinaire! I shower them with kisses each day and I can’t imagine life without those furry creatures. Happy Spring, Happy Birthday. You are so special!
Hello everyone!! So happy the book is finished!! You should be very proud of yourself!! Plus Happy Birthday! I loved the Jack update too. I also gave my kitties a taste of Spring for the first time yesterday, with open windows. It was Pippa’s first taste of the outdoors and wind. She sat there all day, chirping at the birds & squirrels. So cute!!
Today I found something to hold me over until your book arrives — Victorian Magazine’s, Victoria Classics – Best of Britain. “Historic Homes, Glorious Gardens & Stately Castles.” I’m saving it to enjoy over a long lunch, and coffee—all alone in my favorite cafe. My idea of a great time-haha.
Wonderful photos! Enjoy your freedom.
Perfect thing to do… lunch with magazine, my favorite!
Very fun and clever post! You were adorable in a bikini. Happy Birthday!
Oh Dear Sweet Susan! How I have been waiting for the announcement of the completion of the book. I could feel the joy in each and every word you wrote today. Congratulations and please know that I canNOT wait to get my hands on it.
Reading it will be like sitting down with a dear friends and listening to her tell me about things that make her and her beloved smile! JUST CAN’T WAIT!
I have a b-day in April too. It is my favorite month of the year and I ALWAYS celebrate my b-day from April 1 all the way to April 30th, even though THE day is the 28th. This will be the first b-day without my precious Mom, as she passed away in July on her 90th birthday. Birthdays were always important to her so she amazed all of us by waiting until her special day to leave this earth. Anyway, for as long as I can remember I have done something I will repeat again on the 28th. My Mom taught me the joy of giving and that it was much more important than receiving. So on my birthday (and this was started by her many, MANY years ago) I wrap up a present of my own choosing and sometime during the day I give it to some unsuspecting person. Last year it was my mailman. I waited for him for hours before I saw him, opened the door, and presented him with a gift of chocolates and coffees. He was so surprised. I told him (per my Mom’s instruction) that it was my birthday and he was my birthday present this year….I always explain why I do it. I’ve surprised waitresses, friends, checkout clerks in the grocery store, librarians, bus drivers and countless others. I haven’t decided what I’ll do this year or who I will surprise, but I know it will bring me great joy and make me think of my Mom and her wonderful pearls of wisdom. Have a terrific day on Friday!! Love you girl!!
Giving is the best part of anything isn’t it! Surprising people that way, I love your mom! And you too Willa, Happy Birthday to you!
What a wonderful thing to do. In the “card” world we call it RAKS – random acts of kindness. In your giving you give yourself a present too:)
What a lovely tradition. With your permission, I would like to follow your tradition on my mother’s birthday as she was a gift to me. Thanks so much for sharing.
Congratulations! Susan on finishing your book. I can’t wait to receive it in the fall (I’ve preordered it..yayy)
I have to say, I’m so envious of your CA friend coming for a visit to your home on Martha’s Island. To me, that would be a slice of heaven being a guest at YOUR house!
Enjoy your time outside now that you’re getting into springtime. You feel the same about your Jack as I do about our cocker spaniel, Toby. I’m pretty sure he’s tired of hearing, “Mommy loves Toby” over and over again. 🙂
I hope it’s a slice of heaven for her, I want her to come often and stay long! I bet Toby never gets tired of that! 🙂
And TODAY IS my birthday…66 and counting! Thank you for a new post! Tomorrow we leave on an RVing journey…first stop Ft Benning GA to see our grandson graduate from Airborne school!
Happy Birthday Mary! 1947 was a very good year ♥
Hello Mary, I too have a nephew (Michael) graduating from basic training at Ft. Benning GA tomorrow. My brother and his family are there right now visiting with him when they can see him. After graduation on Thursday, they get to spend some time with him and then he is off on an 18 hr. bus trip to go to school for the next 8 weeks. Congratulations to your Grandson and enjoy your trip.
Oh, happy day! Congratulations on finishing the book. We can hardly wait to hold it in our hands.
That Jack is something else! He truly keeps you on your toes – literally, as well as figuratively!
Now, get out and enjoy spring on Martha’s Vineyard!
xo Nellie
Wow! Congrats Susan on finishing the book. Finally! Some time to enjoy for yourselves. When does it go to the publisher, or has it already??? I truly can’t wait for my copies to arrive. Love having them to look forward to in the fall. Enjoy the time with your friends and have a wonderful birthday, the best ever!!
Forgot to mention….the photos of Jack! How we have missed seeing him and Girl Kitty, seems like it’s been a long time. He’s as charming as ever, such a precious kitty cat. Thank you for sharing him with us!
He’s been with me all along, making me stop and play everyday and being so darling and excited about life. Happy to share him.
We are sending it electronically … so it really never goes! We just scan it and email the pages! Quite amazing. And feels so much safer than sending it by mail. It’s been going right along, but they will be sending it to the printer May 1. Oh. Boy.
Oh that’s wonderful news! Guess I missed that part earlier about the book being scanned and sent by email. Somehow, I had in my mind that the whole hand-painted, beautiful, original manuscript pages would be securely parcelled up and mailed off! Scanning and emailing is much more secure! Plus you get to keep your darling original (which will be worth a fortune one day).
You are the sweetest person on earth to do this book in this way, sharing it with all of us all along the way. I don’t think anyone has ever done that before, have they?
Happy Birthday today!!!! Dear Susan!
I don’t know — I haven’t seen it. BTW I have an old bank safe, and each of the books, one page at a time, is in a separate box, in that safe. That’s where these pages will go when we’re done!
Whoopee! Love striking through checklist items, love seeing Jack, love seeing your kitchen from new angles, love the Peter Rabbit room, love Shirley Temple, and love the Confederate violets! They were Gladys’ favorite violets, although she loved all violets, and you are so fortunate to have them in your yard! Happy Early Birthday, Susan! Mine is 6 days later, and the whole FOGT will say Happy Birthday to Gladys on Friday, too.
Best wishes,
Susan
Well happy birthday to you too Susan! Happy spring!
Susan, I feel like I live on a different planet! SPRING???? We’re in a Winter Weather Warning here in the Twin Cities – MN! AND- I’ll be missing my granddaughter’s duet at her Kindergarten Music Program in Wisconsin due to the weather. Soooo now can you understand how much your email meant to me today and why I read your every word twice and lingered over every picture? To top it off, a picture of Shirley Temple! AMEN! She was my idol (yes, I’ve seen many birthdays) and have always admired how she lived her life … all the way to being our ambassador. Thank you so much for sharing, congratulations on completing your/my book (looking forward to its arrival), happy birthday and bless you.
Thank you Elaine — I’m blowing springtime weather your way, hope it arrives soon!
We are celebrating you, Susan, for your joie de vivre, for focusing attention on what is fine and beautiful and real, and for spreading sunshine. Love to you on your birthday and every day! Thank you for creating a new book for us to savor. Can’t wait to read it and smile and dream.
Thank you so much Rosanne!
Congratulations and Happy Birthday!
(BTW, I love how Mr. Jack’s pupils are all dilated when he’s in hunter mode. Get that pony tail band!)
He is a wild thing!
Good evening dear Susan, I am so impressed with Jack!!! You had a picture at one time with Jack on your cabinet, he had jumped up there from the floor. Now he is showing off again, able to jump up on the door and playing a balancing act!!!!! I can see how proud he is of himself. I can’t have animals in my home, so, I get great enjoyment out of your “Jackie Boy”. I bet he is so smart with his tricks nothing ever gets broken!!!.
Congratulations!!!!! Your book is done hurrah, hurrah——–
A red check for you is very special. Now it feels like a snail pace waiting for it to come in the mail. I think it was a great idea to pre-order “A Fine Romance”,
all your Girlfriends will be reading it at the same time.
Happy Birthday dear Susan, Happy Birthday to you!!!!! I just love Birthdays, never care who is having one, because it means a PARTY and a party means
cake with ice cream! So, Celebrate with who you love, Make a Wish and blow out your candles. Now, I send you a pluck for good luck and a pinch to grow an inch. Have a HAPPY day, Marion
I like the pre-order because the minute the books come in, they start going out, and we will all have ours first, before anyone else, and we won’t run out because we are ordering enough! It was a wonderful girlfriend-suggested idea! Thank you Marion, for all the good Birthday wishes. I have a feeling this one will be my favorite of all! Simple, but full of love.
Dearest Susan….
Congratulations to you on finishing your book 🙂 , what an accomplishment and how full your heart must be with joy on getting to share your wonderful journey with us all. I can’t wait to have it in my hands, so I can , once again, take that journey with you!
Wishing you a most wonderful birthday this Friday filled with all your favorite things. Take a moment during the day to just sit back and breathe in deep and say….ahhhhhh life is good! ~ we truly do live the good life! Enjoy your day celebrating the beautiful woman that you are! Happy, Happy Birthday to YOU! xo Raenell
Nicest thoughts, thank you Raenell!
Your blog is just bursting with happiness! So many happy things …..book completion, Jack doing tricks, anticipating a friend’s visit, lunch out-and-about on MV, walk with your sweetheart, Gladys Taber, and a birthday coming up. Plus…..Shirley Temple singing! Thank you, thank you for sharing your day(s) with us! Peggy
Oh Susan, I forgot to ask you. would ever make a book mark with the
chick that is in this Post? She just looks so cute, would be a pleasure to look at in a book.
I will keep that in mind Marion!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY a day early!! Hopefully, you can savor early birthday greetings as much as I do.
Thanks so your advise my love of nearly 48 years will be leaving for England on May 9th and returning via the Queen Mary 2. Do you remember encouraging me to go ahead and price the inside staterooms that were more reasonable? You were right!! We can’t wait, and I’m trying to be careful by not packing too much. 🙂
Your Check List is “right on”!! I add a mammogram to my birthday month checklist; makes it easier to remember to get it done.
You’re going! Good for you Karen, that’s just wonderful! Beautiful time of year, baby ducklings are everywhere!
Wish Susan a Happy Birthday and tell her how much I enjoy her blog…and how much I enjoy how she loves blogging and keeping in touch with us! (Check!)
She’s right here, and you just told her, thank you so much Deb, it’s my pleasure!
Welcome back! Congratulations!!! What a great feeling that must be! Can not wait for “our” book!!! So happy for you – and so glad you’ve gotten out and had a “you” day! You certainly deserved it! Love the uke music, the impish Master Jack ~ uh! so cute!!! Welcome spring! And most importantly have a fantastic birthday – may the year ahead be healthy and full of wonderful surprises! Enjoy your time with your friend ~ we’ll all be here when your done. 😉 As always, thanks for all you do!
Happy almost-birthday, Susan! Mine was yesterday. April babies rock, don’t we?
Congrats on finishing the book! Can’t wait until it comes out. I hope the Chicago area might be on your book tour!
It will be for sure!
Congratulations on such a wonderful week! I smiled to myself as I read it because I also hung my forsythia wreath on the front door and on Monday I went to my dermatologist and fairly danced out the door when I received my six month clean bill of health (had to celebrate by treating myself to a little spring shopping trip), and my birthday week is next week. My birthday is next Friday, and I have always thought an April birthday was the best time of the year to have a birthday! Sooooo…..I would say we have lots in common this month. Thanks for the wonderful post!
I always enjoy your photos of Jack — he is such a lively kitty! I was also a big fan of Shirley Temple movies when I was a child–my favorite was Heidi.
I hope you have a very happy birthday on Friday, Susan! Congratulations on finishing your book — I will be excited to read it!
Hugs,
Pat
Thank you Susan, for returning, you have been missed!!
Happy to be back!
Happy Birthday…hope it is as wonderful as you are. I am glad your weather is springlike as we have had awful weather here in Idaho—wind so hard that it blows me all over the place and cold!
Why can’t Jack go outside …ever? Are you afraid he will run away? Don’t all cats come back inside after they go out? If you are afraid can’t you leash him like I do my dogs and take him out? Not being nosy just don’t get it.
Have a great time with your friend and enjoy your day! Linda from Idaho
I have always let my cats out before. Girl can go out, which she does, but she’s back in after a good roll in the sandy driveway. My girlfriend Martha who lives across the street has had two kitties hit by cars in the last two years, breaking her heart both times. That’s shocking to me, because I never lost a cat that way. Then I read that you should let your cat mature before you let it out, because when they’re young they will chase a butterfly into the street without thinking, but as they get older, they get a little bit smarter. So I thought I might let him out when he was around 2 … maybe I will, but not until next year at the earliest. No, he won’t run away, they know where their bread is buttered. You could leash him, but then he might love it outside so much that from then on he would torture you with trying to escape all the time. Hope Idaho calms down soon and spring comes your way.
Hope you NEVER let him out. Cats kill more songbirds than anything else for one thing. Our indoor cats lived to be almost 20 years old, perfectly content, healthy and happy.
Jack would be a terrible bird killer, I can tell by the rubber bands! And he would bring them to me. That’s another reason.
Please don’t let your cats outside. If you love
them, that is. My mother used to let her cat
out and I ask her not to. She said, “Grandmother
always had “outdoor” cats.” My reply: “Did
Grandmother ever have an old cat?” Answer
was “NO.”
Yes but I did, I had three happy old cats that all went in at out at will — but all slept inside with us. They loved the pond, they loved the woods, they loved the deck, they didn’t kill birds, they lived to be, one of each, 18, 19, and 20. So I thought it was like that for all cats. I’ve learned differently, thank goodness, before anything bad happened.
You are a good mommy. I guess it all depends
on where you live. I’m overprotective because
I saw my neighbors cat attacked by a pit bull.
I got in my car and blew the horn and it scared
the dog long enough for “Red” to get away.
He had lots of stitches but he survived and
lived a long life.
Horrors!
My first cat was let outside and she lived to be almost 20. My second cat, who I also let out, died at 13 from cancer due to the dreaded 3-year rabies vaccine (which, thankfully, Vets no longer use), but she got bit by a neighbor’s cat in MY yard right next to the porch and we live on 2.5 acres. I never knew mind to attack birds (or at least catch one).
I wrote earlier about my 3rd cat and how I don’t let her out because I signed an agreement with the Animal Rescue League not to. My thought is if you never let them able maybe they won’t know what they’re missing and it won’t be so bad for them.
In the end each cat and owner is an individual situation and you have to decide what works best for you. Your cat can die from going to the Vet or be attacked right next to your house, so there’s no guarantees. You just need to be able to live with your decision if it proves to be the wrong one!
In rereading my comment while it’s still in moderation I found 2 errors! Here is the corrected version. Please delete the other. :-0
My first cat was let outside and she lived to be almost 20. My second cat, who I also let out, died at 13 from cancer due to the dreaded 3-year rabies vaccine (which, thankfully, Vets no longer use), but she got bit by a neighbor’s cat in MY yard right next to the porch and we live on 2.5 acres. I never knew mine to attack birds (or at least catch one).
I wrote earlier about my 3rd cat and how I don’t let her out because I signed an agreement with the Animal Rescue League not to. My thought is if you never let them out maybe they won’t know what they’re missing and it won’t be so bad for them.
In the end each cat and owner is an individual situation and you have to decide what works best for you. Your cat can die from going to the Vet or be attacked right next to your house, so there’s no guarantees. You just need to be able to live with your decision if it proves to be the wrong one!
It’s so true Cathy, we can’t protect them from everything!
I’m going through the same decision making with my cat right now. She is 2, but we got her from the shelter at 1-1/2 years. We have been married 39 years and had 2 cats in that time who lived long lives and went outside whenever they wanted, except at night. Anyway, when it is warmer here and I am spending time in the backyard, I probably will let her out. For one thing, she always wants to be where I am, and for another, she usually gets what she wants.;) We love our kitties!
Two is a better age, and especially if you will be with her, then I bet she stays close.
That’s exactly what happens with my brother’s cat who is allowed outside on a leash or sometimes a tether. He LOVES it! And now whenever you’re coming in/going out a door you have to be sure he’s not nearby or he might try to scoot out really quickly! He can even wiggle out of his little kitty harness when he’s outside and supposedly safely-tethered. Don’t do the leash thing – it’s not worth the anxiety. :>)
On the subject of letting or not letting your cats out. Mine have always been in and out. Most of my cats lived to around 15 and died natural deaths. And since I live in the middle of nowhere, none are going to get hit by a car. But the 3 precious barn kitties I rescued last November now just a little over 6 months old, the little female was bitten in the face by a rattlesnake today. We were just getting ready to leave on our trip to Ft Worth for my mom’s 90th birthday. Thank God I found her before I left. I thought she lost an eye, I couldn’t understand what happened to her. Our vet told me when he called back it was a rattlesnake. Poor little BB3. He said she will make it but I have never had any thing like this happen to my cats.
We have a house cat who refuses to go out, apparently with good reason.
Oh, poor little thing — how amazing that something so little can make it through a rattlesnake bite.
Bottom line…if Jack is HAPPY just looking out the window KEEP HIM IN! Katherine Rose doesn’t even want to go out, she runs and hides when a door is open (she was also a rescue obviously found outside). Another advantage to an indoor cat, they rarely are sick. Katherine Rose has never been back to the vet…….I have spent $237 on an ear infection for BB1 and now BB3 incident. This after shots and spaying and neutering all 3 BB’s $450! Just last month! Oh well…it’s just money LOL.
but I sure won’t be buying anything for myself for a Long time!
We have “Prince” and “Muffin” and they both have always been indoor-outdoor kitties. I didnt know any better, so I trained them to go for walks with me, and in the process, they learned where it was okay for them to go. They were our first pets, so I thought that was normal. They are both around 9 yrs old now and we have a wonderful routine. I would tell them that “this is Prince’s bush” or “this is Muffin’s tree”…and cats are so intelligent….they actually learned what the words meant. We havent had much trouble with bird catching, but there have been a few field mice ….. lol. I have to believe that the lifestyle of the “parents’ is going to play a huge part of a kitty’s lifestyle. We are so into pampering and babying and playing with our cats and then we tell them…”lets go for a walk”….etc etc. They pretty much stick close to us or the house or the yard when we dont go for walks into the neighborhood. I love hearing everyone’s stories!
Loved your story too.
That book of yours is going to be so much fun to read! I believe we will be receiving them in early fall, a nice time of year for a good book to curl up with. – I love the picture on the cover , its too pretty to put on a bookshelf, it needs to be seen. – My 2 cats love my ironing board, it has been there ‘spot’ of choice forever – it is in front of a window to the backyard- they try to beat each other to it. Happy Birthday and Happy Spring! Bye bye. ps. it has been a lovely journey – your trip to England and the writing of your ‘Fine Romance’, I have so enjoyed the whole thing.-
I’m so happy to hear that, I love that picture too, can just see us making that turn and going down that hill, then around the bend and through some gates …. Thank you Anna, it’s been my favorite project ever, and mostly because of you and everyone on the blog, it’s just made it so much fun.
Happy, Happy Birthday, Susan! April 12th is my birthday too, and I will be celebrating with a family weekend in Pismo (including 2 adorable granddaughters ages 6 and 3) and thinking of you celebrating on Martha’s Vineyard. Hope your birthday is absolutely wonderful!!!
Love,
Ilene
PS After years of dreaming and planning and carrying around your Summer Book, I finally got my garden going, complete with a white picket fence and your bee skep. We had lettuce from our garden tonight for dinner. : – )
Ohhh, you must love it! I’m so happy for you! And Happy Birthday! xo
Congratulations on finishing A Fine Romance, and YOU WENT, GIRL! What a great feeling of satisfaction you must have! Celebrate, celebrate…! Wishing you a most wonderful birthday! And yes, CAKE! On FB just a couple of days ago I was talking about a wonderful place that used to be in San Francisco, I Dream of Cake: they made the most amazing cakes, long before it became popular. Now we are all dreaming of cake, with your birthday coming, and mine is at the end of this month. I want a cake that looks like a ballet corps assembled on the steps of the Paris Opera House, but that is, perhaps, asking a bit much. Great to see Jack, getting so excited about the great outdoors he climbed for a better vantage point! Glad Spring is visiting your wonderful island, and sounds like the beginning of those wonderful evening strolls through the downtown. Happy book, Happy Birthday, happy cake, and let us all be grateful and enjoy. Loved the uke song, which came along, appropriately…just in time…
LOL, “you went!” 🙂 I did went, we did went with me! Yes, your cake? Lots of details in those ballet slippers! If you had that cake, which part would you eat first? Would you bite off all the feet? Or would you even eat it at all?
That’s the advantage of cakes like that not being in the budget: I don’t have to bother myself about such questions! That’s why I enjoy looking at the pictures instead of being exposed to the real thing! I will just get a good serious chocolate cake, and Dream of Cake that is so beautiful! It’s interesting to me how much art is now ephemeral. Edible art: cakes, designs on the top of the coffee…heart shaped fried eggs… Highly detailed sidewalk art. Things that take a lot of time and effort, and are gone in a very short time. Things to wonder about…
Little spice of life!
The happiest of birthdays ‘Sweet Susan’! And…the very happiest of congrats!
My anticipation is running so high;yet with a bated breath I shall wait with the sweetest of savor, ‘patience’! Thank you for the love and the sharing,but once again !The ‘journey road’ is a long road; The rewards for the miles ? blessings. . . . . . . Plant the seed,the harvest comes… Beautiful blessed day my ‘friend’.
Thank you Veronica!
I was so happy to see your post today. I knew there was a reason we had not heard from you in awhile. Congratulations on finishing ‘our’ book! I admire you for so many reasons and am amazed that you have given so much of yourself in writing and painting this treasure. Thank you. And do have a very Happy Birthday with no stress! Mine follows on Sunday. While you are enjoying your day on Friday, I will be treating myself to a mani and pedicure. Aaah.
Happy Spring!
Nancy (from Bakersfield
Happy Birthday to you Nancy!
Happy Birthday Susan!! I’m sure you will have a wonderful day.
Congratulations on finishing your book. Everyone can’t wait to read it.
Jack is so cute! I had a kitty years ago that would climb doors like that all the time. Her name was Tasha and she was like a circus performer. She would walk on curtain rods, the tops of doors and would swing from the chandelier!! She lived to be eighteen and a half years!! Hope Girl Kitty is doing well.
Enjoy your freedom, you deserve it!!
Thanks Lisa, love the sound of Tasha! Cats are amazing people.
Happy Birthday Susan!!
My cat Tasha was an indoor cat (as all my cats have been) and she was never bored! If they’ve never been out they don’t know what they’re missing and are perfectly happy.
My cat Samantha celebrated her 10th birthday yesterday.
Right now Jack thinks he has something trapped in the kitchen wall. At least that’s what it looks like, he was staring at the wall when I got up, he’s still there — I tried to pry him away, but he’s having none of it. So yes, he’s not bored either!
We have “something” living in the unfinished part of our attic over the livingroom. How do we know? Because both my cat and dog will get upset then run to the corner of the room and stare up at the ceiling! Days will pass and they’ll do it again. We don’t hear anything!
We’re not hearing anything either but Jack was staring at the wall again this morning.
What a lovely post. I’m sure Jack has grown since we last saw him :). Congratulations on finishing the book, you’ve worked so hard on it. I can hardly believe it’s a year since your trip, doesn’t time fly. It sounds like you had a lovely day with your walk and lunch and I hope you have a very happy day on Friday, Happy Birthday for then. x
Thanks Pam. I’ve been emailing with Siobhan this morning, my Tetbury girlfriend. So, in a sense, still in England!