LIGHTHEARTED ♥

That’s how I feel, lighthearted, dancing down the stairs this morning, did my exercises, played with Jack, went outside to sniff the garden. And if a picture is worth a thousand words, then get ready for my version of War and Peace!  A nice cup of tea would go good right now, and then my dear girls, Musica!

I have lots of photos to cheer your heart this lovely morning . . .

Starting with these . . . during a spring rain . . .

the colors make me so happy . . .

. . . my kitchen smells like a flower shop!  And I’m all well.  My cold is finally gone, I get down on the floor every morning now and do stretches and leg lifts, lift my little weights and feel like I’m starting all over!

I couldn’t help taking a kazillion pictures of this vase full of tree cuttings . . .

But then my perpetual audience climbed on top of the fridge to survey his kingdom . . .

of which I am his people — is it the cat or the vase that is the real star of this photo?

It’s the cat.  So regal, such a star . . .

The pink cherry blossoms, heavenly!

Letting me loose with a camera can sometimes be a dangerous thing.  You should see the ones that got away!

And here’s where I go to gather the pink booty . . .

I could never do it justice with a mere paintbrush . . . never never never

Because looking into this sparkly pink pear tree is like a prayer.

The smell alone is enough to inspire the sweetest dreams . . .

And the breeze, the island breeze filled with the ocean, the blossoms, the green grass, the violets, the sky and all the good things of nature.

And Jack.  Well, my cup just runneth over. 

We had friends to tea the other day, and despite the diet  (I promise you, I am being very good!),  I made something mighty delicious —  a blueberry angel food cake with lemon glaze!  (Fat free, but filled with delicous sugar!).  I’ll give you the recipe for this the minute we reach our goal weight UNLESS there is strong request for it now, and then, of course I will give it to you!

We ate about half of it, heaven’s sugar cake, and took the other half, a quarter-cake each over to Lowely and then to Martha!  It’s so nice to have girlfriend neighbors with whom you can share the wealth and don’t get mad at you for doing it!

I used my pink dishes to match the flowers.  And then guess what I found out?  A year or so ago Joe and I made a little video called “How to Sift Flour.”  Truly one of the greats as the title implies!  But I just found out it is #1 on Google in the massive Sifting of Flour category!

XOXOXXOXOX

Yes, if you Google How to Sift Flour, this is what you get, without even mentioning my name.  We, my girls, are number one!  In the world. On Google!  WHAT an accomplishment!  I’m kind of excited about it!  It’s the little things in life!

Remember a couple of years ago we got a new Dogwood tree for our backyard?  Well, we just placed an order for this year’s addition to the springtime floral extravaganza at this house.  We ordered a Magnolia x soulangeana, a weeping Higan Cherry Tree, and a Honey Crisp apple tree. Also seven new forsythia bushes to put behind the fence in front of our house. Not sure if they will be in stock, but it’s a good time to plant them, so we’re hoping our nursery can find them for us.  It’s so gorgeous out there, why not make more beauty if we can, so it’s almost silly crazy romantic over-the-top beautiful?  Nothing wrong with that.

Flowering trees are so special — something magical about them after a long cold grey winter.  Here’s the dogwood last year — it’s not in bloom yet this year, more to look forward to!  One of the reasons this is all especially beautiful to me this year is because . . .

I’ve had a sort of tunnel vision, like looking at the world through a straw, for a long time.

My concentration on our book, the single mindedness it takes, made the world look like this to me . . . here’s Girl Kitty.

Here I am making tea first thing in the morning. I had other things on my mind at all times:  What could I say, do, paint, dream up, remember, include, make happen, so that A FINE ROMANCE will be something you will love.♥  I wonder if other authors see the world like this when they are deep in the throes of a project?  If ever I was going to write something called “How to Write a Book” I would have to try and explain this.

This is what the kitchen looked like to me at around 4 am.

And here’s a snowy day — it registered because of its beauty but in “real life,” I was looking at the sea from the rail of the ship, or in England walking through wildflower meadows, looking at maps, touring castles, driving narrow backroads, and drinking ice cold peah ci-das in pubs!

I would look out and see Joe shoveling the snow out front and it was vaguely confusing.

He came in every day and made us a cozy fire, but my focus was always always always on something else . . . this was my background music, snap, crackle, and pop . . .

Believe it or not, even this guy never got all the way through . . . but he sure tried.

Ahhhh, here we are . . . this feels familiar . . .

Determined daily to make a movement toward the finish line . . .

One tiny brush stroke and pen mark at a time . . .

Every moment, the pure joy of creating . . . combined with the agony of wanting it to be done . . . but not too quickly, because there was enjoyment of the moment, as strange as that may seem.

Until I got to this, page 8 of A FINE ROMANCE . . .  The other 259 pages went to print as of last week, but I had to wait to do this last one.  I needed to get legal permission from several song writers in order to print excerpts from their songs in our book, because what would our book be without MUSICA? The last permission came through on Friday, and I was able to do this page.  The last one!  Oh MY!

And when I finished, the tunnel vision went totally and completely away, and the bright world came shining through . . . all new like I’d never seen it before.

Colors are brighter and prettier than ever . . .

The world is a lovely place!  Time for my fake tap dance!

Our walk to the water is more beautiful than ever — it’s 68 degrees on Martha’s Vineyard right this moment and as soon as I finish saying hello to you, we are on our way to our walk to this very spot to see the sparkle on the water.

But first, you have been so patient while I was looking at life with blinders on, you cheered me through and were with me the whole way — so, so wonderful . . .  isn’t it about time for a giveaway? YES!

It’s possible most of you have these two books . . . but maybe you have someone who you could give them to?  Or you could save them for birthday gifts.  Spanking new lighthearted copies of The Summer Book and Girlfriends Forever, and isn’t spring the perfect time?

The SUMMER BOOK is filled with delicious recipes for the season, barbecues and picnics, my picket fence garden, and stories such as “Library Days”, “How to Go to a Tea Party”, and “The Raft”.

GIRLFRIENDS FOREVER is a celebration of US — everything we love, Girl Parties, healthy recipes, decorating, clothes, beauty, exercise and a Spicy Mango Salad on page 82 that is to die for. This one also has the story of How I Met the Beatles (when I was “Just Seventeen”).

I would love to sign them, to whatever name the winner chooses: her own, her daughter’s, her sister’s, her mother’s, or her best friend’s!  Just leave a comment here to enter the drawing at the bottom of this post where you see the tiny word “comments” — (and if you don’t see it, click on www.162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/, scroll to the bottom of this post, squint because it’s tiny, and there it will be).  In a few days we’ll pull Vanna off the tennis court or out of her bubble bath (such a lady of leisure) and let her choose the winning name.  And I hope with every fiber of my being that this time, it’s you.  xoxo ♥  Hope this makes your heart take wings! Bye for now Girlfriends!

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1,887 Responses to LIGHTHEARTED ♥

  1. ChristineLeonard says:

    April showers bring May flowers! Love the spring rain photos. Out here in Northern CA we are having an unusually hot spring and I miss our April showers. Can’t wait for your new book!

  2. Heather Frederick says:

    From one writer to another, “tunnel vision” describes it perfectly! Love your blog — reading it is like sitting down for a chat over a cup of tea in your beautiful kitchen.

  3. Terry W. says:

    Good Luck with your diet! I am in the position, as I have gained ten pounds this year:(. Thanks for the great ideas, flowers and inspiration. I would love a copy of your blueberry cake, thanks.

  4. AmyNicole says:

    Love all the wonderful images you shared of Spring-flowers, trees, kitties, quilts, birds, lambs…and yes, recipe please!!! Would love to win the books and share with my mother. Thanks! Blessings to you!

  5. Julia C. says:

    I loved your post today Susan! Your writings and photos always give me a warm, cozy feeling. I love that we can watch the antics of Jack. He is certainly a cat with personality.I can’t wait to read your new book. Thank you for sharing your journey as you recalled all the wonderful places and people you met along the way…and the sheep…so cute, but I have a thing for sheep. I hope, someday to visit England. After seeing Martha’s Vineyard, I know that is another place my husband and I will visit sometime soon. Keep up the wonderful work!

  6. Karri Jindrak says:

    I would love to give the ” Girlfriends” book to my dear friend Emily, who is giving me strength and courage during my divorce. She and her family have taken my 2 young daughters and I into their home (since my family lives in cali- were in georgia) and are giving us all the love and friendship we need during this difficult time. I’m a 29 yr old stay at home mom, and your books bring me such inspiration and girl power:)
    Incipita vita nova- a new life begins-Dante

  7. Ginny Sargent - New England says:

    Susan, on the main land our trees are in full bloom, well most of them. My lovely cherry tree is blooming late this year, or shall I say, it is blooming the time it use to. We have had this tree for over 20 years. I loved it and it always bloomed during my birthday in mid may. Over the past 5 years or so, it has bloomed and passed by then with a blanket of pink covering my shade garden. I look forward to actually seeing the blooms on my birthday again! Loved the photos and I think forsythia would be a wonderful spring song for your yard. At my mom’s house, they were always the first call of spring. I would love copies of your books! I am still collecting some and I know signed ones would be my treasures! Thanks you for bringing spring to us…. Over the last week the weather has turned warmer and there is a pop all over. We live in a beautiful part of the country. New England is a jewel shining bright in every season. Thanks again Susan.

  8. Ginnie says:

    Your posts are a delicious treat, Susan!

  9. Diane Donaldson says:

    It’s beautiful to see pictures of all the spring color. So very cheerful. Thank you posting the pictures. Looking forward to reading your book.

  10. Joanne Wood says:

    Yes I vote for the blueberry angelfood as well. I especially loved todays beauteous encouraging pictures. Spring has been very late here in west Michigan along with serious flooding. The flowers are just beginning to cautiously show there faces. I just had to buy a few pansies today to help spring put in an appearance. And out the front window in early evening = mama bunny with six little ones scampering around.

  11. Florence Kawamura says:

    I check your website everyday for new posts. It’s one of the things I look forward to every day because it always makes me happy. Isn’t it amazing?

  12. Sandy Manning - Plano, TX says:

    Oh the glorious spring pictures! So beautiful! Congratulations on finishing your book. Such an accomplishment! I would love to receive your giveaway! You are so talented.

  13. Pat Mofjeld from St. Paul, Minnesota says:

    Wow, I can’t believe how many comments you’ve already gotten! Well, of course I’d LOVE to receive either one of these books! What a wonderful treat! The photos of your flowers were beautiful. Loved your illustrations of what you saw while working on the book–probably that is every author with deadlines. I’m sure you feel “set free” now! Yesterday and today we had sunshine and 70’s yesterday and 81 today! Ahem, should I confess that I already have complained about the “heat and humidity” to poor Norm???? Last night when we got home from visiting friends, we watched a movie. I told Norm it sure felt warm in the house, that we should open windows. The thermostat inside was reading 73! That is too warm when all winter we were used to 65-68 degrees in the house! Thankfully a cold front is coming through Tuesday night and the temps will drop and they are even mentioning rain/snow!!! (no snow on ground, just mixed with rain from above!) Okay by me because I just feel it is too early to get out “summer clothes”! Okay, Susan and girlfriends: How many of you have some clothes in the following categories: 1. Winter. 2. Spring/early summer. 4. Summer. 5. Late summer/early Fall. 6. Fall. ??? For some reason I’m thinking some of you only have one category of clothing… 🙂 A common saying here in Minnesota is this: “If you don’t like the weather, stick around as it will be changing very soon!”

  14. Pat Mofjeld from St. Paul, Minnesota says:

    Incidentally, PLEASE share the blueberry angelfood cake recipe right away! Some of us have weight goals that will take too long for us to reach–not fair for others who will reach their’s sooner to have to wait. Besides, we might forget all about the cake by the time I reach my goal weight!!! And besides that, blueberries are so good and plentiful at the market right now! 🙂

    • Linda in Texas says:

      AND blueberries are a superfood–they’re so good for you that that cake has to be health food!

  15. Jocelyn says:

    It’s always so fun to catch up on your blog. And to see the beauty out your window. And I sure would love to have that delicious looking cake recipe 😉

  16. Pat Mofjeld from St. Paul, Minnesota says:

    P.S. IF you share the recipe before April 30th, I could bake it for Norm’s birthday cake!!! 🙂

  17. Deb H says:

    Love Love LOVE your blog! And I’d love to win a signed copy of one of your books! Thanks so much! ~Deb

  18. Lisa Jorgensen says:

    Thank you for the great photos Susan. It is nice to enjoy the beauty of the flowers without starting my allergies!
    That Jack is so handsome.
    So happy you are well and looking at your bright new world!

  19. Evelyn says:

    What a lovely post!! Love, love, love all your photographs…snap away!! And I can’t wait to hold your new book in my hands and travel along with you to Hill Top! My grandchildren will love it as well. We read Peter Rabbit countless times each time they visit. They can all quote the book by heart! Thank you most of all for your joie de vivre! You simply spread sunshine wherever you go!

  20. Nancy Ciminello says:

    What a beautiful post. We just don’t have springs like that in Phoenix. Thanks for sharing!

  21. els manning says:

    Oh adore your kitty (s) nothing is quite as homey as when there is a cat! Love your books. Thank you for sharing your talents…<3

  22. Paula McElrath says:

    What treasures these are!

  23. Jennifer Giarritta says:

    I can’t wait to receive my preordered book from you! It will be Spring in my heart when I do! xo

  24. MARILYN P. STALEY says:

    Your site is such a delightful trip through ordinary days, filled with simple beauty, i.e. blooming spring flowers, scrumptous recipes, friendships with your friends, pets, and of course your dear husband. I start each day by reading your wonderful pictures and postings. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and your generosity.

  25. Susan Beach says:

    Thank-you so much for the beautiful pictures. I always look forward to reading about the wonderful times you are having.
    Susan Beach SoCal

  26. Micol Davis says:

    Dear Susan,
    I adore you! Thank you for making our days brighter – you have a very special way about you ….
    Happy end of April! Happy beginning of May! Life is sweet.
    Sincerely,
    Micol Anne

    • Micol Davis says:

      Oh! Plus, I would just LOVE to win those 2 beautiful books you are giving away to some lucky person … if it’s me I will just die! <3
      Thank You!! xo
      Micol Anne

  27. Lou Wotzke says:

    Thank you for a much-needed lift of my spirits, susan. You have mada a difference in my life today.

  28. Carmen Wyant says:

    I have just the girlfriend in mind for one of these. We just spent the last week putting together the funeral for our best friend and she really needs a special pick me up since she did most of the work and planning. It has been a really, really hard week for both of us. I have several of your new book ordered and one of them was to go to the one we have lost, but I think I can find another special someone to give it to who will love it as much as she would have. Can hardly wait for them to arrive!

  29. Miss Marion says:

    I found your blog this week and am already in love with it!
    I can tell I’ll be spending a bit of time here.
    *<]:o)

  30. Mona in Riverbank CA says:

    I love the photos of all the flowers and blossoms (and Jack!). So bright and cheery in front of the rainy window! We’re about a month past daffodil time and are having early summer heat. Our tree blossoms have already turned into tiny ripening fruit. I’m glad that you are well again and can go out and enjoy the beautiful spring. And your cake looks de-luscious! I can’t wait for the recipe. Thank you for sharing your part of the country. And your home. And you!!!
    =^..^=

  31. Pamela Brouillard says:

    Hello Susan! I am a relatively new member of your “Sisterhood”. So glad you are feeling better. Being under the weather always seems to makes you a little “off” doesn’t it? Your art and words always makes me feel so good, even if I have had a bad day. Together with music you link up with, they are so soothing to me. It is funny you mentioned “tunnel vision”, because when I am browsing your website, I find myself in a whole other world! I am really embarrassed to say I don’t own any of your books. I am unable to get to the stores by myself. It would be so wonderful to be able to hold your books in my hands. I could lose myself anytime I wanted! Thank you so much for the chance to win them. Sorry this is so long, you are just so easy to talk to. Maybe next time I will make some tea to sip. What kind of cookie would you like with yours? <3 😉

  32. Lisa Nelson jones says:

    What an experience to read what it’s like to write a book. I can’t quite put into words (probably as you yourself cannot), the feeling I got reading what your world is like during the process. Wow. Almost a twang of pain mixed with excitement?? No, that’s not quite it- but I feel the overwhelming desire to hug you now and tell you I’m so glad it’s over for you (tunnel vision) and at the same time, I’m sad for you it’s over. Perhaps a kickkking-burd moment? I’m not sure, but I feel sadness in here, but so, so excited for you (and me!) to get this baby of a book! I’ve heard it described before ( book writing) as giving birth…maybe this is what this means? You don’t know whether to cry or laugh? But, thank you do very much for this gift- and this giveaway!! Thank you!!!

    • sbranch says:

      So well said Lisa! It’s sort of all emotions rolled into a ball. Including wild joy. So, that’s life in a nutshell!

  33. Megan says:

    Well it all looks wonderful. My jonquils are just about to open flowers and we are only two months into autumn in Australia, very confusing, it was 30C yesterday and a warm wind was blowing. Congratulations on the book finally being finished.

  34. Pam says:

    Hi Susan, I posted yesterday but it seems to have disappeared somehow. Anyway, here goes, will try again. Love the spring flowers, they’re gorgeous. We have sunshine today which is great as we are going on a boat trip. It’s 50 years ago today that Dave joined the Royal Navy. We toyed with the idea of taking out a rowing boat but decided that was too much like hard work 🙂 so we’re off to Stratford on Avon having a ride on a pleasure cruiser and then a leisurely lunch.
    Glad you are feeling fully recovered and ‘free’ to enjoy life again. x

  35. Erin Middlebrooks says:

    LOVE the pictures. Especially the ones with Jack. And I too would like your recipe. I can’t find your books in Canada, so I would love to have them. 🙂

  36. Erin Middlebrooks says:

    LOVE the pictures. Especially the ones with Jack. And I too would like your recipe. I can’t find your books in Canada, so I would love to have them. 🙂

  37. Kristen says:

    Beautiful blog post and beautiful musica to brighten everyone’s day! Thank you so much for the sweet pictures, sweet words, and sweet food in our inboxes! I’ve been studying away from home for awhile and nothing reminds me so truly of New England as these posts. I can’t wait to be back to smell all of those lovely tree blossoms! Thank you, Susan! 🙂

  38. Jan Johnson says:

    Your blog is such a breath of fresh air and loveliness! I am so salivating for that England book I will be completely dehydrated by the time it is available! I would love to win either of these books. P.S. I know you are the opposite of cruel so I am waiting for that cake recipe!

  39. Susie Johnson says:

    This winter – after years away – I found you again and you cannot know how deeply I appreciate spending time in your world a few times each month. Your lovely vision and color of the world is inspirational and uplifting, and weeks after I read a blog I return again to find something new. You leave me happy for hours – and this morning was no exception. Susan Branch, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I cannot wait to receive your new book about England. As an English teach for many years, I am planning a surprise for my husband. For our anniversary next year – hoping to find many ideas that I will find in your lovely book when it arrives this autumn – we will make a journey to England ourselves. Meanwhile, here and now – each day is brighter for your lovely postings. And thanks for introducing me to such wonderful music, too! Your are surely a gift in the lives of all you touch.

    • sbranch says:

      England is an English teachers’s dream come true. Full of literary connections, things to do and see, and wonderful history. You will love it. Nice to hear from you too Suzie!

    • Hello Suzie, I live ‘next door’ in Wales. If you are planning your visit, here is a link you will find very useful, to the Royal Oak Foundation, which is a special American branch of the National Trust in England and Wales.
      royal-oak.org/index.php
      Happy Planning! You should set up a blog to share your planning and adventures . . jus’ sayin’ 😀

  40. Tina says:

    So thoughtful. And, two awesome books that I own. Although I purge every so often, I will never send these beloved away. I toss my name into the hat because it would be delightful to have signed copies!

  41. Beth Carter says:

    Thank you for this lovely post! We had a long weekend of gentle spring rain, but in NC the daffodils are already gone. They are my favorites because my birthday is in March when they are blooming in the south. Thanks for a cheery start to my day!

  42. Mona says:

    Thank you, Susan, for being so generous and having giveaways often. It’s always fun to hope I’ll be the one picked. ~_~
    Love the post today, so full of life and color.
    Hope you have a great day today.

  43. Leslie-Anne says:

    Spring arrived here yesterday. The neighbour’s magnolia is in bloom – oh happy day. Thanks for the chance to win one of your beautiful books.

  44. Barb says:

    Oh Susan, I’d love to have one of your books. I actually don’t have any so it would be my first, but probably not my last!

  45. Susan says:

    What lovely blossoms! Such a sweet post to share with all of us. It’s exciting to think that I just may have a signed copy of one of those on my shelf. Spring is full of wonderful surprises.

  46. Katalin says:

    Thank you, dear Susan, for sharing such lovely images of Spring! I am so glad that Spring is finally here! Thank you for the possibility of winning your books; sure would appreciate being added to your giveaway! Have a beautiful and blessed day! Katalin

  47. Jacquie says:

    This post really helped pull me out of my funk – our sweet, little, kitty India has been missing for almost a week now and I’m afraid she’ll not be returning 🙁 MV’s blooming season is about 2 weeks ahead of us and your pictures remind me of what’s just around the corner; the sweet smells of life, renewed. They did cheer me up.

  48. Marcia A. Sherman says:

    Dear Susan and family –

    yesterday (Sunday 4-28) was lovely here in the wilds of southern New Jersey – very much as you described your world. I had plans for refreshing my small gardens under the windows of the great room. Saturday I raked the protective leaf mulch off, delighted to see the little sprouts of the lily of the valley. Overnight they grew at least two inches. I have spring planting bulbs to go in the ground and was quite prepared for a few hours in the sun and the dirt. Alas, the illness of one of my family members kept me indoors. It was just me and my mom (86) and her rather awful 24 hour tummy flu. I was not comfortable leaving the house, being out of earshot. So I re-read some Julia Quinn romance novels between fetching ginger ale and crackers and chicken soup. The bulbs will be there, the dirt will be there. Happy to say she is up and drinking tea as I write – yay for the resorative powers of sleep. Calling for rain over the next few days here, perhaps I can get out in between the drops and garden. It would be delightful to add these books to my SB collection…
    Happy you are well – Marcia in Sewell NJ

    • sbranch says:

      We have Lily of the Valley too — Joe’s favorite flower. Spreads like crazy around here. I know what you mean about it growing 2 inches overnight! Hope your mom is better Marcia!

  49. Nadine says:

    Isn’t a Spring rain beautiful and romantic? It makes the fresh colors just JUMP at you!

    If I should be so lucky as to win one of the books, I will have to give it to my sister-in-law, who was visiting last night, and I found out that she knows your work only through your scrapbooking papers; she didn’t know you write books and blog, etc., etc.! So I’ll have to fix her up (her birthday is in Sept., nine days before my own); she collects cookbooks and loves your work: ta-dah! I love it when a great idea comes along!

    Have a great day, Susan and girlfriends. . .

  50. Marva says:

    Susan,thank you so much for the beautiful Spring pictures you posted today. Springtime is so beautiful with all the flowers, trees and grass coming back to life and the beautiful birds chirping. Spring has been slow coming this year in the midwest, but we are now green and blooming. I don’t have either of your books though I have checked the Girlfriends book out from the library before. I have never seen your Summer book and would enjoy trying out some of those summer recipes.

  51. Judy from Maine says:

    Morning Susan,
    Tiny bits of color are just starting to pop here in Maine, so seeing your beautiful photos is like a little teaser of what is to come. The blueberry cake looks yummy, from reading the other comments it looks like we won’t have to wait too long for the recipe

    • sbranch says:

      No, I’ll get it together very soon Judy! How far up are you in Maine?

      • Judy from Maine says:

        In Brownfireld, which is in Western Maine near Fryeburg, along the NH border. Beautiful country, you should come for a visit sometime.

        • sbranch says:

          Oh, I was wondering … we love Winnipesaukee — North Conway area, have wandered the backroads around there, found a wonderful old Mill in Snowville that was turned into a vintage lamp antique store. Lovely part of the world up there.

          • Judy from Maine says:

            My husband and I own The Quilt Shop in Conway, NH. If you are ever coming to the area, please let me know.

          • sbranch says:

            OK Judy, that would be fun! If you hear that I’m going, remind me, but I did write it down!

  52. Beth Keser says:

    Your pictures make me love Spring more than I already do -beautiful!! Glad you are feeling better too! Isn’t Spring the best medicine??

  53. Alicia says:

    Oh, this post lit up my heart on this grey, rainy morning here in NC! It’s been raining forever, well, really only 2 days, but it seems like forever. Your pictures of flowering trees & flowers & your cat made my heart sing! Thank you. I have Girlfriends Forever, a gift from my very best BFF, a few years ago, & I love looking at it. I haven’t been able to find The Summer Book, & I’d LOVE that, too. And yes, please share the recipe for the blueberry angelfood cake. It looks delish.

  54. Kathleen Clark says:

    Thank you for your lighthearted posts and your beautiful pictures! You make my day!

  55. Martha says:

    What fun!! I’ll keep my fingers crossed!!

  56. Asha says:

    Oh Susan! Another wonderful post full of Spring and your family! Love, love, love it! I would so much love copies of your books and the Blueberry cake. It would be perfect for Mother’s Day! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! So happy to hear you are well again! Three cheers for accomplishing writing your book! Take care! Hugs and kisses to you and all the girlfriends!

  57. Julie M says:

    I would love to have your books and I so loved all the warm spring photos, as I love in Colorado, and we have had so much snow this month.

  58. Martha N. says:

    Susan, your beautiful spring blossoms make me nostalgic for early spring! In NC we’ve already had the dogwoods bloom and begin to fade. It’s a cold, drizzly day here, so your brightness is especially welcome!
    I know the feeling of tunnel vision when I’m working towards a deadline. I compare it to having blinders on–you don’t dare look too far to the right or left or something more wonderful will distract!

    • sbranch says:

      So true! Your friends, family, pets, all the things you truly love, are the very things that will swoop you away! It’s like fighting city hall!

  59. Chris Wells in Knickerbocker, W TX says:

    Hi Susan,
    Love the tunnel vision. And that IS ACTUALLY how it has been for you, especially down the homestretch. You do have incredible work ethic. You stuck to it, stayed with it and except for a comment or two to the girls, a few rubberband tosses for Jack, you kept your nose to the art paper! I’ m so glad you finished just in time for spring! Yeah!! Now get outdoors and enjoy life again! Play! You deserve it!
    Bet Joe’s glad too!
    Chris

    • sbranch says:

      He is! And you were right there along with me, which I can’t say too much. It was a huge help, and totally different than when I did the other books. God Bless the Internet!

  60. Laurie Kubiak says:

    Dear Susan,
    Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful spring pictures! I always look forward to your blogs:) Cleveland, OH, on the shores of Lake Erie, is also very beautiful this time of year – wish that someday you might be able to visit Cleveland! My husband has been inspired by the pictures that you posted last year of Joe building new steps for your home. He carried those pictures to the lumber store and is in the process of putting new side steps on our century home. Thank you so much for all of the lovely things you share with us!! And can hardly wait for your new book!! Hope you have another lovely spring day!

  61. Chris Wells in Knickerbocker, W TX says:

    PS……forgot about the four sifting!! Love your sifter. Did you paint it or find one like that? Mine is very old and belonged to my childhood friend’s mother. I can’t use my mothers. My mom is still using hers…90 years and counting!

    • sbranch says:

      I didn’t paint it, it’s old too, from the 50’s. My mom is keeping hers too!

      • Judy Young says:

        I have a collection of old flour sifters with pretty designs painted on them. I think I have about 6 or 7 of them, and use them for display mostly. One is illustrated with a country kitchen, a mom, two kids, mom is baking, etc and it has a red handle, absolutely my favorite one. Found it in an antiques store years and years ago. They are still inexpensive and so attractive.

  62. So happy to hear your cold is gone away! Now you can get down to the business of enjoying Spring, Spring, Spring!

    Can anything else ever be the star of any photo if there is a sweet kitty cat in the picture?

    It is so lovely to find a new blog from you today. The biting cold winds are howling at us from the North . . again . . and I am waiting for my pizza dough to prove in the warm sun that is blasting through my window . . such a contradiction how it looks outside and how it feels outside!

    Reading your description of how your air is scented . . there is a major candle company you could suggest that combination to, and call it “All Good Things” I wonder if they’d take it on? Just a thought, just sayin’ . .

    Oh, the clingfilm on the bowl with the pizza dough is going up and up now . .

    How do I sift flour? Same way my Nanna did . . in a sieve held up high over the bowl. Weigh the flour first, then sift it to get all the lumpy bits out and the air in. I do have a Homepride “Fred the Flour Grader” sifter, but keep him on display only.

    Here’s a little thing . . I found a bucket full of daffodils in the back of the garage! I must have overlooked them during last Autumn’s planting session and the bulbs have languished all Winter long in the bucket, without soil, without water, yet now I have a bucket full of flowering daffodils! Nature is such a miracle worker, but this year I will plant them in the ground, I promise.

    Well, that pizza dough is ready to go . . my cast iron skillet is ready and waiting . . yes, I make my pizza in that on the stove top and it is soooooo good! I have fresh tomato sauce, mmmmmmmushrooms, and local mature Cheddar. Are you hungry yet? There will be plenty to share if you bring a plate . .

    • sbranch says:

      I think you weigh your flour, but we measure by cupfuls. Do you keep a little scale on your counter for that? I adore homemade pizza too . . . so many wonderful things you can add to it, and I love a thin crisp crust!

      • Prynhawn Da Susan (Good Afternoon)

        I have an old fashioned balance scales that sits on the counter; it is cast iron with a brass pan and weights in Imperial measurements. I should get a metric set as most things are now metric here, but am clinging on to Imperial for as long as I can. I love my balance scales, it is very accurate and feels ‘right’.
        I also have several sets of cups (as I have a lot of American cook books, including several of YOURS!!) and a lovely set, sent to me by a dear friend, with snowflakes on the handles, and a spoons set with angels . . adorable ♥
        Pizza is on, and now I’m making yogurt as I’ve promised several loves of Irish Soda Bread for the cake stall at a Coffee Morning fundraiser in the village at the weekend.

        • sbranch says:

          I sent measuring cups to my English girlfriends too — but I bet they sell them over there now! I also took mine with me on our trip since we were staying in places with kitchens — I brought recipes so we could have a little home away from home every so often. I’m still trying to figure out the recipes I get in my British Country Living!

  63. Loes Bloem, the Netherlands says:

    Love the trees,wish you could see ours,apple,plum,magnolia ,it is beautiful.
    I would love the recipe for the blueberry cake!
    Thank you this post and the nice pictures.

  64. Diann says:

    Beautiful post! Love to see all the pretty flowers and springtime photos. That cake looks delicious!. Had a rough week last week with two funerals in the family so it was a breath of fresh air to read your post at the start of a new week. A fitting reminder that after the dark winter season in life comes the beautiful bright spring.

  65. Conniechiwa says:

    Happy Spring! Please let it be me winning these delightful things! 😉

  66. Judy E says:

    I love the spring flowers, your pictures bring joy.

  67. Karen P. - Green Bay, WI says:

    With all that beauty around you, I can SEE why you would need to have tunnel vision! Why just the distraction of cute Jack with his ponytail rubber bands alone would throw me off track all day! I just love the beautiful arrangements that you make with your flowering tree branches! You are brave to trim them off! I would be afraid they’d not grow back! I will have forsythia for the first time this year! Yay! Not blooming yet, though. Would LOVE a signed copy of your book…YES, please!! xo…Karen P.

  68. Sharon says:

    I LOVE your blog and can’t wait until A Fine Romance is out! Winning these books would tide me over!

  69. Lori says:

    Hello Susan and happy, happy spring! It has been a long time coming to Indiana … but I think it was worth the wait. I vote that you share the blueberry cake recipe too. And if we need to sift the flour, we all know how, thanks to you ! : )

  70. Lee Rose says:

    Daffodils and Forsythia–Oh they bring me back to my childhood!

    I just reconnected with an old girlfriend after about 6 years of being busy and just not keeping up. It is amazing how, when someone knows you, they know you forever and you can just pickup where you left off. Girlfriends forever is true indeed.

  71. Sandi Skeels says:

    I would love the recipe for the Blueberry Angel Food Cake …and any of the ”give~A~way books” — thanks again for the ”maybe” a chance Vanna will pull my name !!

  72. Margaret says:

    I love love all you do… It feels to me like you are an old friend… Love your beautiful pictures, your blog, your books and seeing your precious cat on your posts! Would love to win the books, for me! Xoxo!

  73. Barbara from SoCal says:

    So beautiful! Oh my. It’s like eye candy for me when you post photos of your garden, trees and the island. I live in the high desert in SoCal so color is always something I dream about. Thank you for posting all the gorgeous photos and sharing your mornings/afternoons/evenings with everyone. It always starts my day off “happy”.

  74. heather williams says:

    What fun! I’d love to win your books…little souls of joy & cheer! Thank you so much for the generous opportunity! Blessings…~H♥~

  75. Julie L says:

    So glad to hear you are feeling better and just in time to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather and all your flowers and trees. Have fun, it is time!

  76. Gail B says:

    What glorious pictures…you are so thoughtful to share them.. ….would love the recipe for the angelfood cake..Rainy day here in the south,so go out and enjoy the wonderful spring…I am so envious!!

  77. Deborah says:

    Thanks for always making every day brighter! Would love to win the drawing and present this to my true Forever Friend!

  78. Victoria Schei says:

    The worn edges on my local library’s copy of “The Summer Book” is mainly my doing as I request it every June as we enter the good times of fun and sun. I am looking forward to “A Fine Romance” which strikes me as the kind of book to enjoy in a comfortable chair with a hot cup of tea. Your little glimpses of what lies within it’s pages have really built up my anticipation, just as your blog’s pictures of spring blooms have for what is coming over the next few weeks to my neighbourhood in Canada.

  79. Gail says:

    I love your blog and look forward to your new posts. Thanks for sharing and would love to win the books.

  80. Laurel Young says:

    It’s lovely to see Spring on the Island. What beautiful pics of your flowers. Mine are a ways off, most are still sleeping but the tulips are stirring, prettiness to come. I have a dear, dear friend since we went to high school (many, many, many moons ago) and I would love to give her one of your books. If that is not to meant to be she will still enjoy your website as I do. It is a little “escape” everytime I read it, thank you.
    Hugs and laughter,
    Laurel

  81. Angela W in Oklahoma says:

    Hi Susan…So glad you are feeling well…I just loved the pictures of the flowering trees…and especially the pictures of Jack…I just want to grab him and shower kisses all over him (my girl kitties endure this but don’t love it!!!) I will await the Blueberry Angel Food cake recipe with great anticipation…I love having something to look forward to…YUM!!! As always…thanks for sharing your world with us “Girlfriends”!!!

  82. Barb a says:

    Thanks for the spring pictures. My daffodils are just starting to open, but the rest is yet to come!

  83. Laurie Walt in Illinois says:

    One word comes to heart today after reading your blog-Enchanting! Thanks Susan:-)

  84. Kathy Fletcher says:

    Dearest Susan-
    I needed all the beautiful spring colors, flowers, and pictures this morning. Just feeling really down as i have to have surgery next week….not looking forward to that….and then 2 weeks later is my 53rd birthday-how did i get that old???????? hahah-i don’t feel that old (at least not all the time) and i certainly don’t think i look that old……hmmmmmm- maybe my mirrow lies to me? haha.
    I would love to win your books- i am slowly but surely finding them here and there to collect them all…..and i cannot wait for A Fine Romance- i think i had to be the first one to pre-order and pay…..haha…..you think?
    I am glad you have beautiful weather- we have a nice 70 degree day today here in Kentucky…maybe a little rain, but thats ok. Love your blog, and I hope you are having the best day ever!@!@! Thank you for making me smile today. xoxox

    • Kathy Fletcher says:

      Mirror – can’t spell this morning.

    • sbranch says:

      A. You’re young. You’re practically 45. That’s important to know you baby sweet 53 year old. The good thing about surgery, is that from the very moment you wake up, it’s over, and you are getting well. It’s just one day. Try not to allow it to be more than that (although I understand TOTALLY how hard that is!). xoxo Wishing you all the very best!

  85. Penny Hoopes says:

    thank you for all your beautiful postings. it’s beautiful here in Mo. All the Dogwoods are out, the Redbuds too. The grass is really green, & the trees are all bursting green too. All the rain we’ve had & warm weather has done its job. And, now to enjoy our Spring. Love, love, love it.

  86. Barb Jensen says:

    What a perfect way to begin a rainy, gloomy Monday! The delightful pictures are just what I need to jump start my busy week. I can smell the flowers and feel the breeze in my hair as I read through your post. And, the chance to get two more of your wonderful books is an even better way to make those mundane chores tolerable. I, too, will be lighthearted as I do the laundry, dusting, and cooking. Thank you so very much!

  87. Janet Bangs says:

    All I can say is, “Thank you, God, for Susan Branch, for making her so creative and loving and aware of beauty, for love, for friends, for this beautiful world! Thank you, Susan, for bringing so much to all of us.
    A devoted fan!

  88. Mary Ellen Krivanek says:

    Thank you for a breath of Spring on this rainy morning!

  89. Tammy B says:

    Hi Susan! Thank you for the beautiful words and photos. I am looking forward to your new book! Happy Spring to you!
    ~Tammy from Michigan

  90. Lynn Cooper says:

    I cannot wait for my book to come in the mail!!! Do you plan to send a copy of your book to Bruce, Van, and Phoebe, and Sammy,if he is still alive?

  91. Mary Gilbreath says:

    Would love to be the winner of these two books!

    Can not wait for your new book!

  92. Peggy Davis says:

    Ah Susan , what a lovely post. I so miss the earth waking up in Spring. Here in central Florida we never get that, the smell of new earth, the fresh spring air. Oh how I long for it.

    Not a contest, always Jack!

    And yes, I know exactly what you mean by tunnel vision when in the whirlwind of a project. To me everything else seems slightly out of focus and muffled.

    So glad you finished the book, can’t wait until September. It’s like anticipating the start of school and getting new crayons and pencils. Love that!!!

  93. Arnette Webb says:

    OH the beautiful spring pictures. I could almost smell the blossoms! Can’t wait for the new book. Always love the pictures of Jack. I always think of Poirot. Have a wonderful day!

  94. Sherrie M says:

    Fabulous spring joy! Glad to hear you’re well again. I’d love to have flowering trees in our yard. Our yard has too poor of drainage though. A dogwood we had awhile back died from standing in water all the time. Ah well, maybe in a different yard in the future. For now the beautiful pictures of your trees more than suffice.

  95. Dinahsoar says:

    You are brilliant. It’s a shame you can’t clone yourself. But maybe some of your love of life–your zest and zeal–can rub off on us!! It can’t help but….So happy that you can return to seeing life through the wide angled lens. And I would love to win won of your books!…from the hills of TN.

  96. Deb says:

    Oh, how I love the way you see life! You have inspired me in so many ways not the least of which is asking for a set of watercolors for my 51st birthday. My very first! Thank you for bringing beauty and smiles to my world!!

  97. christine says:

    Thanks, Susan! I would love to own either of those books! Glad you are feeling well again. So grateful that you always share your day so graciously!

  98. Charlene Bilodeau says:

    Oh so glad to hear you are feeling well! Just in time to enjoy everything spring has to offer! My flowers are just now opening up and picked a bunch of my favorites, violets, yesterday! Spring has sprung so they say.

  99. Terri Mc says:

    I just love reading your blog. It’s always so uplifting. And because I have never had a cat as a pet (are you shaking your head with pity right now ?) , your Jack and Miss Kitty are my fantasy pets while I read about their latest antics. I would love a copy of your book and look forward to “A Fine Romance”.

  100. Marianne from Peoria IL says:

    We are all so ready for spring! Love the photos around your home on the island. You’ve inspired me to go for a walk this morning, with my chocolate lab “Maggie Mae” and my camera!

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