Hello, it’s our first post from the other side, 2014, the beginning of a new year! And we did it up right, with a huge snowstorm! It’s a B L I Z Z A R D out there, so white it hurts your eyes, and big flakes still coming down, every tree branch is covered in snow, every leaf, the pickets on the fence, the bushes, everything. MUSICA MUSICA (This is double whammy, first click on one, then the other, then come back to blog for ambience perfection.)
This storm makes the January page of my 2014 calendar a premonition! In case any of you missed it, we still have calendars left if you need them. We finally ordered enough of something! We’re all sold out of Janie’s “winter” banners, but she’s making us some different ones for Valentine’s Day and they should be here soon. We also have my Valentine cards ~ someone asked the other day, and yes, we do have them. But I digress! It’s a . . .
Or, our ancient white house would look like a ship in a still, white sea, if we could see it. Like a ship in a storm is more like it.
It was still dark this morning when I started this post. And look at the windows over the kitchen sink! We’ve been frosted!
I tried so hard to peek out to see what was going on but the wind had coated everything in ice and snow. Squeals of delightenment. We love it!
Luckily we have no place to go, and no desire to go there. I’m all wrapped up, tee-shirt, two old cashmere sweaters, scarf, thick delicious handmade shawl that I adore, like being a child and having a bankie at all times, and flannel lined pants too. We have heat, but we augment.
Jack and I have a fire, the heater is humming, the house creaks a bit in the wind . . . I’m eating leftover Mushroom Soup that Lowely made for New Year’s Eve . . .
I lit some candles, just in case the lights suddenly go out . . .
This is our first real snow . . . the last couple of days have been FREEZING cold ~ 28° when we go on our walk.
But look how beautiful it is out there. The way the sun sends rays through the breaks in the clouds.
They are dredging the opening to the pond, something they do here every few years. See that boat, that’s the dredge. They are pulling sand out of the channel so that boats can get in and out of the pond without hitting the bottom. The sand goes out through that pipe to the beach, the opposite of the way a vacuum cleaner works. Erosion steals the sand from the beach daily, exposing the little fishing shacks to storms. So dredging is a redistribution of sand, from one place where it’s a hinderance to another where it’s a blessing. Ah men. How smart thou art ♥.
Joe and I have walked this walk almost every day (unless we’re away) since we bought our house in 1989. We shall haunt it someday, but right now, we just try and go there as often as possible. It’s my favorite part of the day.
All this dredging is big excitement at the normally quiet-in-January shore. Here’s the pipe running along the opening toward the sound. That’s Cape Cod over there.
Then the pipe makes a right turn to run along the beach — they put it wherever they want the sand to land … they already did this part of the beach, now they have taken it down toward the fishing shacks.
Can you see how far that pipe goes? Into the water and back out again. Here, here’s a better look at it!
See how exciting? It’s mesmerizing . . . listening to the water roar, watching the seagulls. But COLD, my fingers are freezing so much I can’t turn the camera off. Not such a professional ending, but the water is worth it.
Prettiest place in the world. One of the things I want to remember to do every day of this new year is write down what I did, the basics, not to be Jane Austen, but so I know what I did. It’s going too fast, a blur. I want these days remembered. I want the double enjoyment that memory can bring, even if the memory part has to be helped along a bit. I want to know I went to see the dredging and I’d like to know what I ate in front of the fire on New Year’s Eve, and now I do. (Freezing cold iceberg wedge salad, with creamy blue cheese dressing, sprinkled with pomegranate seeds and fried pancetta bits, and homemade Mushroom soup with rye toast star croutons. ♥)
I’m not sure I’ve mentioned it yet. But I did a new version of my now out-of-print Book of Days! It’s very much like the old one . . .
A wire-bound book that will lie flat, space enough to write each day, with additional room for notes, just a little bit bigger than the old one. . .
You can use it for any year, and keep them year after year until you have the story of your life. This scribble below is something I wrote in one of my diaries back in the 90’s, when I was still trying to figure things out (not that I have it figured out, because I don’t. Yet. But I’m not giving up).
I know the answer to that one now. They begin in two places. They read, and they write. Teach your children well.
It’s getting light outside. The camera focused on the ice, while I was trying to get it to see the birds at the feeders.
Outside my kitchen windows, let the magic begin . . .
Some people have fish tanks, I have bird feeders.
I just peeked out the living room window, there is Joe, shoveling the driveway . . . he LOVES it out there.
I knocked on the window . . .
He saw me . . .
A threw a shovel of snow at me! ♥
Jack said, “What’s going on? Pick me up! Showmeshowmeshowme!” Which I did; we stood at the window watching Joe do all the work.
This is my chosen entertainment for today. Howard’s End. I’m just going to slip it into the video machine. Perfect for diary, snow, fire, kitties and popcorn because really, what else can we do. Nuttin Honey. (If you’re looking for something new to read, I highly recommend the book too.)
Hope you have a lovely day wherever you are! “Thank you” doesn’t seem quite enough to express all I feel when reading your wonderful comments. It’s such a pleasure to know you! Here comes another year! I wonder what will happen next? Let’s make it good! ♥ xoxo
Eastern Canada and the mountains are getting hit hard but we live in Alberta and so far, it’s still above zero but slippery. Snow and cold expected this weekend but not blizzard strength.
I am a collector of all things SB! And was so excited on Christmas morning to find “A Fine Romance” under the tree. Our 30th Wedding Anniversary is this year and we hope to cross the sea as well.
Enjoy your blizzard days. Cozy house, comforting food, fun companions and a camera are all you need!
Snowstorms are wonderful if you are wrapped up in warm cozy things and can watch out of a window! Very cold and lots of snow here in north central IN. Have been writing in my “Days” journal. I have had it since 1996(I think)First Edition. Had never written in it. Decided this was the year to start recording what is going on in my life. Stay warm and enjoy the snow!
Hi there! It’s so weird how big this country really is – how one side is completely different from the other weather-wise. Here I am thinking I need to redo my toes if we are going to continue to have such warm weather! Stay nice and warm. Wish I were there under a blankie watching Howard’s End with you!
Love, Sue from Simi, CA
Hi Susan I just wanted to let you know that I have been introduced to your delightful work by my lovely friend Joanne from Portland Oregon and am addicted! I live in Somerset UK and we met when both on a Fulbright teaching exchange in 2004. We were especially touched with all the lovely comments in A Fine Romance about friendship on page 137 -we feel that about each other and am sure we would absolutely love you on sight! Thank you for all your loveliness which enhances our lives with very best wishes Becca Tracey
Oh how nice to hear from you Becca … No doubt that we’re kindred spirits. xo
brrrrr looking at all that snow makes me cold. I think that’s why I love our woodstove so much, as in my opinion there is nothing quite as comforting as a warm fire. good morning Susan, good morning girlfriends. I hope you all are weathering that storm okay, nice and warm and safe. we have fog this morning, ice fog, and its a problem here as the roads are so slick with the ice. the barnyard crowd is out and about, the ducks zoomed out to go swimming in their pool this morning…BBBRRRRRR!!!!! never saw ducks waddle so fast in all my life, but they love their pool and swimming in it is their main purpose for the day. the turkeys are strutting about the yard, and the hens are enjoying the last of their snack..leftover steamed veggies, veggie peels and noodles. they love their noodles, they chase each other all over the pen for those noodles. haven’t seen the deer lately and the squirrels are happily chowing down on the treats I left out for them this morning. wish we had your snow, but we may get some rain by sunday night. its cold here, only 29 degrees out there. well off to go feed the barnyard crowd and then tackle some laundry, and get the cat to the vet, she cut her foot on a knife in the sink. my husband left the knife in the sink and somehow she slipped and cut her foot, so I may have the vet look at it and bandage it as she is not in the mood for me to do it. I tell him not to leave knives in the sink as I am terrified that the cats will injure themselves and its happened. life goes on. have a great day everyone and stay warm. hugs….. 🙂
Oh my goodness. You really do have a blizzard going on, don’t you? Just cold and windy here in SC but it feels good. Just like winter is supposed to feel. Blue, blue sky that is so blue it hurts your eyes to look at it. I love the saying about memories being roses in December. The older I get the more I cherish my memories and like you, I want to keep a record of every day this year. I do journal but occasionally miss a day but I’m going to try harder this year. Please stay warm and cozy and enjoy the snow. So looking forward to this brand new year with all its blank pages just waiting to be written. Thank you Susan for this blog. It’s such a blessing. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
I can see all the effort you put into this blog and I thank you. It’s getting my mind moving in all kinds of directions. I think I have a “Days” book that I never finished and that’s the first thing I want to find and continue.
The snowy pictures are so welcome since I live in (dare I say?) sunny CA.
xoxo
Dear Susan,
I’m just so happy I got to meet you back when you were in Albuquerque, NM. When I heard about this blizzard, you and Joe were the first people I thought of! I’m so glad you let us know how you are both doing; it sounds so cozy. And I LOVED that dredge video; just so powerful watching the force of that water and the sweet seagulls. I’m dreaming of moving to New England some day soon, as soon as career starts happening 🙂
Hope you, Joe, and the kitties stay warm and cozy!
PS- I felt like I was with you with that perfect ambient background fireplace and music!)
Hi Susan and girlfriends! I loved the video of the dredging, I have never seen the ocean or walked on a beach so that was really awesome! I have been cooking for my husbands trip this morning. He works out of Alabama a few weeks a month. We live in Illinois. It was not by choice, but rather he go or lose his job! He tried finding another job here but had no luck. So for now we are happy to have income and Skype! I cook him several recipes and freeze them so he is not junk food eating all the time. I call him my boyfriend because he pops in and out so much! Still though it could be so much worse, and we know it! I love the new calendar. I think I will re-read A Fine Romance this weekend after Will leaves! Stay warm girlfriend!
Please moderate me!
Here I am! Sorry, but sometimes a whole lot of comments come in almost at the same time…. and I like to read them all … so that’s what takes time. I moderate 3 and while I do that, 5 more come in!
Lovely, cozy, wintery post! When I saw the weather for your area on the news last night, I thought of you two, and hoped you were prepared and hunkered down! Wow! It looks c-o-l-d, but beautiful, too! Love watching the birds at the feeders. And silly Jack, wanting to see everything that’s going on! Cute! Joe reminds me of my hubby when it snows. All we got was rain last night, out here in WA state. Enjoyed seeing the dredging pipes on the beach, as well. How interesting! I have both your out-of-print and the new Book of Days, but have not wanted to write in them! Isn’t that Silly? But, I really like your idea. Maybe I’ll try that! I had thought about using one for a Thankful journal, so I guess I just need to take the plunge!
Thanks for sharing! Stay warm and cozy!
Hugs,
Laura
Love all your snow pictures! I’d say it’s a double quilt hot tea double kitty fireplace warm socks kind of day! Give the furry children kisses for me. Love from Texas!
Oh Susan it’s sunny and 70 in S. Calif but I feel cozy and cold after reading your post..Call me crazy, but I long for a SNOW DAY…. Enjoy !!!!
I don’t call you crazy, I think that’s how I got here in the first place!
It snowed about 16 inches where I am over a period of two days. We are expecting more tomorrow and then we plunge into the cold. Monday and Tuesday we will be lucky if we see -5 as a high.
A good time to stay indoors and knit and read.
Okay, Susan, now this is going to take some work to get me to like (or love?) this part of Winter. Yikes! I don’t want to go out! I don’t want to go out! As pretty as it is, I want to stay in until perhaps June! Okay, maybe May. I keep waiting to hear someone knock at my door asking if I want help shoveling (YES!!). But no one has arrived yet. I’ll venture out to see if I can clean off my door step and stairs (11), but no further. All the while I will be saying my mantra “Hawaii” “Hawaii”… Then I will come in frozen, go directly to my beautiful SB tea tin and have a warm cup of tea and think of you!
Happy New Year, Susan! Thanks for the bird show. These beauties are so incredible! While people are cold, even in warm houses, these amazing creatures flutter around in their feather coats and take refuge on icy branches.
And I was excited to see that we have the same little plate hanging over our kitchen windows…3000 miles apart 🙂
I hope all of you in the NE will stay safe and cozy. No need to travel outside. Here in the Mid-Atlantic (Arlington. VA) the snow is over. It looks like a winter wonderland. I love the pictures of the snow through your kitchen window, Susan. “Emma” w/ G.Paltrow is a favorite. I still cry at the end. I also recommend “Sense and Sensibility” w/ Emma Thomson. I still cry at the end of that one too. Lots of happy endings. One more: “Nicholas Nickelby” – the more recent version. A message of hope-lovely movie. Take care Susan and Joe. Take care everyone.
l IOVE TO BE AT HOME WHEN IT SNOWS—
Thank you for sharing though I’m happy to be in the mtns. of Az., I enjoyed every bit of the videos and pics of snow. Those birds WERE either hungry or selfish! Tee hee! Enjoy the snow.
Kate
I will be out in AZ in about a week and a half! I hope to go hiking with my sons.
We are also blanketed in snow and ice here on the shores of Lake Erie and I am loving it more than I ever have in my life! I’m sure being retired and not having to go out to warm the car and scrape the ice off at 6:00 in the morning or drive home at Midnight in whiteout conditions has everything to do with it. The snow is so soft and fluffy and SOMEONE took the time to sprinkle white glitter along with every snowflake. I sat in the big old tub taking a warm soak and watching the snow fall and blow off the neighbors roof. You just can’t replicate that show that nature puts on. Speaking of neighbors, I gave my neighbor and good friend Michele A Fine Romance for Christmas and she called yesterday with a lump in her throat to tell me how much she is loving it. She said what everyone else has said..that she feels like she is there. She is in the zone!! Well, stay warm and enjoy the show and the freedom from having to go anywhere.
The zone! xoxo Cindy.
Hello! I just tried to order the Days/Blessings book – it is out of stock. Any idea when you’ll be getting more?
Stay warm and enjoy Howard’s End. Wonderful movie and I haven’t thought about it in years. Thanks for reminding.
I think we have them in stock … I’ll check with Kellee.
I tried again and got one! Yay. Thank you,
Makes me happy to hear that Lori!
What a lovely, lovely post today. The double musica was brilliant! Here in Virginia we only have three inches of snow and the sun is out now but it is FrEeZzing cold. The fox squirrel was at the corn feeder this morning and cleaned up at least a whole cup of cracked corn in one sitting! Needless to say he is a little….ahem…plump. 🙂 My step-son-to-be gave me two bird feeders for Christmas but the birds have yet to find them. I am disappointed and not sure why they haven’t found them yet. Loved Howards End years ago and enjoyed watching the trailer again, I will have to watch it again for sure.
Susan, you have inspired me to keep track of my days as well. Last week I changed my life quite a bit by leaving my full-time job as a nurse manager to follow my dream of being a full-time artist. I look forward to filling up my diary with many delightful things.
Enjoy the snow!
~Jamie
Congratulations Jamie!
Thank you for this post. Been down with the flu this was just the encouragement I needed to begin my first day of the new year 🙂
my son, as I write this, is starting an aquarium in his first house with his new wife. I, too, Susan prefer the company of birds. Enjoyed your snow day, as mentioned above, we are in the midst of a dry, warm winter here in N. Calif. What books are you reading?
I just finished the new book about Beatrix Potter’s garden which is wonderful, another opportunity to spend a few days in BP world. I’ve also dipped into a book called Quiet, about introverts. On my stationery bike is the rather dubious most recent Bridget Jones, and I took Joe’s copy of Provence 1970 to the Drs. office waiting room the other day — he loves it and I wanted to see what it’s about — I’ll read it when he’s done.
Let me know about the book QUIET. My son was so introverted; now he sometimes seems to people, the opposite of quiet. I think that it is over compensation.
Fascinating subject. There are on-line tests people can take to find out what they actually are. Extrovert is the preferred way “to be,” which leaves lots of guilt for the introverts who then learn to fake it.
I wasn’t really expecting a post today, so what a nice surprise I had. Loved seeing the dredging. My brother had told me that they had done this at Gulf Shores after the hurricane, so it was very interesting to me to see how it actually worked.
Joe looked so cold outside with his pink cheeks. He’s a card–throwing snow at you. 🙂
Just love all of your encouraging words and beautiful photos. Your kitchen windows are my favorite, in any season at any time. Aren’t we blessed to have a kitchen window over the sink? One of my favorite things.
Stay warm and cozy, Susan. Your plan for today sounds perfect. Add a bit of knitting or spinning and I’m right there with you (if only in my dreams.)
Loved the fire crackling and Ella singing, perfect! Wow, you certainly do have SNOW! Living in Southern California, it’s been unseasonably warm this winter. Enjoyed seeing Joe, all bundled up, and shoveling the driveway, his cheeks so red from the cold. Makes me remember it’s winter. Sounds like you’re going to enjoy your snow day all snuggled up, watching a good movie in front of the fire with Joe and your kitties. A perfect day to journal for today! ♥
We wish it were snowing! Just so cold our fingers tingle! Wishing I could sneak the thermostat up just a little, will my husband notice?
I love journaling to my children, I write funny things they do or say because they are all growing up too fast. My little journal book is called “letters to my children.” I want Susan’s new journal, too!
Love the letters to your children! Priceless!
It’s 18 degrees here in central PA, bright and sunny and very windy, blowing the 5 inches of snow we got last night all over the place! Hubby used the snow blower on the driveway and shoveled the sidewalk and then came inside to warm up and have a snack. We had thick toasted slices of B&M Brown Bread (the kind that comes in a can..I’d forgotten all about this yummy treat till you mentioned it several months ago) along with your cranberry/orange marmalade jam. Yum 🙂 I love days like this. Christmas things are all packed away, house is clean and snug and warm, there are no important appointments on the calendar…pure bliss.
This Christmas I received my first bird feeder. Going outside now to fill it and hopeful that I get the same crazy crowd of birds that you are blessed with. We are headed for single and below zero temperatures this weekend so I brought in our last chicken, Mother Theresa. She can’t manage the cold without the rest of her brood. She is now residing in the dog crate on our enclosed porch. I hope it was the right thing to do. Enjoy your snow day!
I’m looking so forward to another snow! I have my movies all planned and my books in a stack. My knitting is in progress… Unfortunately, here in the motherlode, just like the rest of California, we are in the middle of a big drought. I’m praying for rain, snow or any liquid from the sky!
I just love your photos today, Susan! They are the perfect pictures of a perfect winter day…
Thank you!
Hi Susan…what lovely snow, and the fire is crackling in my background. Was wondering how you fared, seeing the storm on The Weather Channel and thinking of you…out there in the Blizzard warnings!!…but God took care of you as He ALWAYS does:-))) Did you go for your usual walk this morning? Do you know how much snow you got? Guess not up to your rooftop..ha ha!!
Went to order your book of days but it’s out of stock:-( Do you know when they’ll be more?
Happy Movie Day and love to you, Joe and the kitties and all your birdies:-)))
Hi Susan, I’ve been listening to MVY radio on the internet today while I made gingerbread men in my kitchen here in England. It is lovely to see your pictures of the storm as I have been hearing about all the school closures and even the parking ban in Tisbury (I had no idea this happened during the snow but I guess it is so the gritters and ploughs can get through!) Your lovely home must be so cosy today, a perfect place to snuggle up and hunker down in.
Don’t you find it interesting that all of our town names are named for villages in England … it must be confusing when listening to a New England radio station!
We live in rural Essex, it is lovely to hear about the New England towns called Danbury, Harwich, Braintree, Dedham and Billericay. For some reason I find it fascinating and I love seeing them on the maps!
We had frost on our windows too this morning, so very cold outside. The snow is blowing all over today. I feel for Joe shoveling, as I know how he feels. Just finished my shoveling earlier. Now I feel a little like you, drinking hot tea and doing the nesting thing inside. Downton Abbey starts Sunday! Are you excided?
Personally I cannot wait. Till next time….
I love how you include so many elements to bring your “story” to life…and generously invite us in!
Oh Susan, you even make a snowstorm seem romantic. Then I look out my window at the COLD snow here, and think,”Yuck”! No, I’m not fond of the cold weather, but here in NE Ohio you learn to live with it, and count the days till Spring! 🙂
I’m just glad to have a day off today, even though I do have a couple of errands to run this afternoon.
Stay warm and cozy!
So jealous, Susan, would love to have my house surrounded by snow– But we western Oregonians are having a SUNNY day today! Must get out and enjoy.
The ship is definitely anchored in the still white sea , in Antartica …..they sent three ice breaker ships to release it — the ice breakers got stuck , so they took all the passengers out by helicopter …. ‘ tis the season to be jolly and snowy – you got it , you’re
Happy and you are welcome to it ! Poor Joe out in it -27* …..doing that drive way — with more snow on the way, so he gets to do it again ……don’t forget to open a window if the electricity goes off you don’t want to get CO2 poisoning ….Oh joy!
I’m sure you’re not the only one who thinks that snow and cold are not as fun as they look. But it is cozy and a huge excuse to do nothing. Poor Joe … no, he loves it. He looks for excuses to fool around out there. Don’t ask me why! Why do we get CO2 poisoning if the electricity goes off? It goes off all the time. You are making me nervous.
Oh, you are in the thick of it….but cozy and safe – don’t you just love it? The blizzard blew through here last night ( when did they start naming blizzards?) and school was called off, husband had a delay, we shoveled and had tea and I did what you are doing…read, movies, some little chores. Now I am heading to the bathroom for a bubble bath with a huge cup of tea…reminds me of the drawing you did on a calendar some time ago. SO excited for the new book of days…I did not know there was a new one. Bought one for me and my dear niece several years ago and she still talks about it…see, already getting gift ideas for next year. Enjoy your secluded time…great movie choice…we often wait for the snowiest, coldest day and watch Dr. Zhivago…it just seems to fit. Stay warm…thanks for sharing winter on Martha’s Vineyard !
Ooh…taking my book to the bath…Longbourn by Jo Baker – life during Pride and Prejudice told from the side of the servants. Wonderful read !
Dear Susan: You just make everything so wonderful! I don’t have a fireplace, but now I do with that video; I just love that. Here on L.I. we had the blizzard this morning too, and now it’s sunny and the sky is as blue as can be. Love your bird feeders too. Enjoy your movie.
PS also , have Joe cut a path to Lowley’s house …..People are good to eat when it gets bad ….like the Donner Party ….I think you missed that one !
Nut case. I can’t seem to convince you of the glories of a true winter.
Oh Susan… your daddy is soooo cute, I love him!… his sense of humor is adorable!… xoxo Julie Marie
Jack–someone needs to tell you that “lady fingers” aren’t what they sound like! … I suppose I shouldn’t be encouraging you… 🙂
No, you should not Pat, or I will have to send him to visit you!
We have been wondering about the blizzard–now we know! Love this post! What kinds of birds are those? We had flurries in Nashville yesterday but no blizzard. I’m making cabbage-beef soup, just like they serve at Cracker Barrel. Enjoy the blizzard and keep us “posted”! Thanks, Judy
Judy, that soup sounds wonderful. Could you write in the recipe?
Oh, how I’ve enjoyed you blog today! It’s so lovely here, too. We got 8″ of snow in Pen Argyl, PA during the night and bitter winds! It’s about 16 out there and wind chill of -4! It’s soooo beautiful. I love seeing your birds and have some at my feeders by my garden shed, also. I think I shall put up a feeder at my kitchen window and have them closer to me. Will be such fun to see up close. Enjoy and be ever sooooo happy! Marie
Always such a treat to find a new blog from you–and with a snowstorm this time. You make my day with your beautiful blogs, pictures, artwork, food, etc. Keep it up!
I feel warmer already, just having read your post. Chilly I know: it was -5 degrees at dawn (herein the frosty cold Upper Peninsula of Michigan) and we have at least 18 inches of snow on the ground! We are vigilant about feeding the wildlife- the many birds and deer that visit our yard every day. How can they manage so well in this weather! Enjoy your movie! I’ll put it in the queue for Netflix. Here’s to Cuddle Duds- wonderful warm layer and Smart Wool socks! Couldn’t live without them.
Such wonderful pictures and quotes today. Thanks for sharing your SNOW! Susan, yesterday I sent pictures to your feedback e-mail address of the 1941 vintage crib sized Peter Rabbit quilt I found some years ago in my antiques malling days. Hope you enjoy seeing them. I’m going to order a DVD of Howards End now (and maybe the fireplace DVD as well). I’m sure I had one before, must have given it away. But first — I must look again at your snow pictures. Also the sand moving operation. I’ve seen something similar done out here on our coast. Amazing what humans can do. Makes me want to go paw through the rocks and look for agates.
Cozy with my hot tea and two rescue kitties.
Wolfie and Meow Meow ( her name was supposed to be Tilly)
Piper our choco lab at our feet and fire.
Enjoying every bit of your blog as the wind howls below zero.
We had snow yesterday.
Thank you for making me smile.
Your blog post was just perfect timing.
Woolie Hugs
Hi Susan,
I was just thinking about you when I found you had a new post. Oh good. Yes this is really winter this year. Its 6 degrees here, think I’ll stay in. Tuna noodle casarol. Pretty sure that’s spelled wrong. But its good things in a dish in the oven. Loved the post as always, you are so clever. I have tea everyday from your tea tin. Good good. Keep warm. My fireplace is on too.
Nancy Jo
I’m enjoying the same blizzard up here on the Maine coast . What a wonderful way to begin 2014 – sat by the fire all day yesterday and read, A Fine Romance, aloud to my husband. We loved it! Also working to finish the last of your four seasons of Woody station wagons in needlepoint. A memorable start to the year, so happy it included you. Happy new year. A new blog follower – Jenifer
I envy you being snowed in and no where to go. Isn’t it nice that God slows us down sometimes and lets us know who is boss. Enjoy your day by the fire and doing whatever you want to do or nothing at all.
I love a Snow Day!! Almost as much as a hot cuppa coffee 🙂
hello Susan, hello girlfriends. just got home from the vets…had to have a kitty looked at as she slipped in the sink and cut her foot on a steak knife, so she got a stitch or 2 and has a bandaged paw and is giving me the evil eye for now, but she is fine and no other problems except preventing her from chewing off her bandage. brrrrr all that snow, makes a person want a warm fire to sit close to and a cup of hot cider or tea to drink. looks like your feeders are as busy as mine are on this frosty day, its only 29-30 degrees here and foggy and icy. well I have haul in some firewood for the stove, and check on Miss Kitty and make sure she hasn’t chewed on that bandage. any ideas on how to keep her from doing that???? have a great day and stay warm and safe. hugs….. 🙂
Well, with dogs you can put one of those plastic “lamp shade” things on their collars so they can’t reach anything to lick…don’t know if they use those on kitties…?
pat they have those for cats as well but Miss Kitty is not being too cooperative about having one on her, so she doesn’t. but I found a way to get her to stop munching on her bandage, I painted some vinegar on it…. leaves a sour taste in her mouth so she leaves it alone. she is doing fine now and being somewhat good, still grumbles about having her foot bandaged but its only for a day or 2 more and then its all over with, just long enough for the stitch to dissolve.
Hi Susan,
I have enjoyed your books, art and blog for some time but have never written. I’m starting 2014 off with this comment.
I love all your books and have finished “A Fine Romance”. So sorry to see it end. It is delightful.
I’m in sunny Arizona but originally from Connecticut so I know all about the winter storms. Your house looks so cozy. Id like to be there today to sit by the fire with you.
Thank you for all the years of enjoyment and keep it up.
We all love you. xoxo
Hi Susan!! Enjoy your snow day!! Howard’s End, blankets and kitties sound perfect 🙂 We had a snow day yesterday and we were overjoyed! Our tree and decorations are still up and made everything colorful and cozy inside!!
We have snow blowing off the roof today with high winds so it looks like a blizzard. Freezing rain/slush/snow tonight followed by a “HIGH” on Monday of record-setting -18 F. predicted!!! Yes, there IS a minus sign in front of that 18! I’ve talked Norm into taking the day off work–too cold to go out other than incredibly fast trips for dogs to potty! I’m in storm mode already–planning beef stew and cheese biscuits for supper after “SB blueberry corncakes” and sausage for late breakfast. When our West Coast relatives call making comments like we are nuts to live somewhere like here, I remind them that the weather “keeps out the riff-raff”. Not nice, I know, but is the truth! LOL! 🙂
Happy New Year, Susan……Joe, Jack, and Girl Kitty.
While I am new to posting, I am an avid follower of your blog and LOVE every story you share with us.
Ohio too is in the midst of much snow and white trim which reminds me of the white icing on gingerbread houses 🙂 Just hung your new calendar on the fridge, and the snowy page is perfect (also love Jack’s silhouette).
I am looking forward to another fun-filled year with you.
Hugs,
Naomi
Thank you for sharing the videos. We are having another FRIGID day, here in Minnesota. The governor has even called off school for next Monday because our high will only be -15 degrees, with a 60 below wind chill. I think that we will all need therapy after this long, and harsh, winter! Thank goodness I have all of my Susan Branch books to re-read and keep me sane 🙂
What a yummy post. I just ate it up with my eyes and imagination. You make it sound wonderful, but I’m a die hard Florida girl living in Mobile, AL . Our high today is 44 which is cold for us. I like the heat, but it is fun to look another person’s perspective and I certainly love yours. Stay warm and cozy.
Jude
Like, Nina S., I love to be at home when it snows. . . except that today I’m heading for the mall because I’m getting just a slight case of cabin fever—!! We’ve had somewhere around a foot and a half of snow here north of Chicago; and I’m very thankful for my warm home and a husband with a Toro Snow Commander (you have to say it in your best, deep, broadcaster voice) who, like Joe, just loves going out to clear the walks and driveway. 🙂 Cheers to you, Susan—thanks for sharing your blizzard with us! 🙂
Guess I’ve got comma fever too—please ignore the one before Nina’s name! :p
Me too, Me too! I love the snow! Here, a mile from George and Martha Washington’s beautiful Mt Vernon, we are in a picturesque winter wonderland! Simply beautiful. I’ll cry when it melts, which won’t be for a while since the temp won’t get above 20 today and back to the single digits tonight! Yay, long enough for a few more pictures for my memory bank!
But for now, I’ll be content to sit by the fire, with a cup of tea, and two, count ’em, two kitties on my lap. Well, Wolfie is kind of hanging over the edge because this 18 lb beauty is a little large….he just doesn’t know it. Have a wonderful week-end and Happy New Year to you sweet Sue!! XOXO, Willa
Sunny and warm in Southern California – San Diego, to be exact. I’m a little bit envious. I’m waiting for a snow day to go through my cabinets…won’t happen…so waiting for rainy day…hasn’t happened in a while. Woe is me! Messy cabinets. Decided to head out for a Frida Kahlo exhibit. Interesting life; especially her life with the artist Don Diego. Each of us marches to the beat of our own drummer…she certainly did! Love your beat, Susan…so full of life, love and the abilitly to connect with others. Thank you for all you do to bring us together.
Susan, I have so enjoyed your blog today. . .especially as I am just down the street doing pretty much what you are doing. Love the pictures as I know exactly where you are walking. . .right by my cousins little house! Hope it doesn’t sound like I am stalking you – yikes! I guess knowing the same spots that you know makes them extra special. It’s been so many years since I have seen so much snow on the island and I love it. My big, black furry dog is tearing thru our back yard & having such I lovely time, I hate to bring him in. At least I won’t have to walk him after he has had his fun.
Stay warm and a belated happy new year to you!
He must be a gorgeous sight in the snow!
Can’t get over how many Michigan girlfriends are on this site. . . When I am not on the Vineyard, I am in Michigan. Guess the mitten state is getting its share of snow too!
I had to giggle at your cute “capture this on film, or whatever this is”, comment about the dredging video! Its funny how technology outruns our lingo, happens to me all the time. I’m loving your pictures of snow. The weatherman is telling us we could get several inches Saturday-Sunday, so I’m crossing my fingers. The dogs love snow too, while on a walk they drag me down the street as if we are trying out for the Iditarod! The kitties just lay peacefully in front of a window and watch the flakes fall, much more my speed, I’m sure they would be fine with watching a movie too. The frosty pictures you took in the dark look purposely decorated for winter. I love it when Mother Nature accomodates. Happy Snow Day! 🙂
✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥* I Love This Blog~Post Sweet Sue! You Gave Us Snow! & The Birdies! Tweet! 🙂 & Joe in The Snow! Warm Hugzzz! & Jack By The Fire! & Oh The Dredging! 🙂 I Love The Beach! I Love The Musica For Today & I Love That Fireplace….Now I’m Feeling all Warm & Cozy Sweet Sue! Delightful! Thank You! Winter Pixie~Dust Everywhere! Twirling into 2014 with Joy In Me Heart! xoxo Poof! ✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥* 🙂
Happy Friday Susan,……what a way to start the new year…..being “snowed in”…..We California girls have to make the most of your posts and our imaginations! Warm and sunny here….praying for rain.
We are having our own little winter here in Florida a brisk 45 degrees this afternoon. The sun is shining brilliantly and I am loving this weather!!
Pumpkin Bisque here…it’s a chilly day…but the sun is shining in the Pacific NW…that is noteworthy, since it rarely happens between October and July. Still working on my plant eater susan-ish cookbook. Decided I HATE chestnut flour, but pumpkin bisque without a hint of fat or cholesterol is divine.
Hi Susan:
Sun is out, we have a heat wave going – – 15 below zero right now which is far better than the -22 below yesterday morning. It is a beautiful winter day with newly fallen snows and a picture postcard beautiful day . I received a new perspective point of view on the New Year from my 86 year old brother that was something so funny I have to share it with everyone. He has such a great sense of humor and keeps us in stitches all of the time. He called to wish me a Happy New Year and I wished him one as well and then he said – “yup, I am really relieved the New Year is here now.” So I said, ” My goodness was last year that bad?” He said, “nope, but I sure am grateful I don’t have to worry about dying in 2013 anymore”………and that cracked me up to no end. Never thought of it that way before. 🙂 And with that may I wish everyone a very Happy & Healthy New Year! Enjoy your bankies…….
Ah it does sound cosy and warm in your house. We have terrible storms here in the UK and not at all seasonal. Just hope we get some snow soon. There’s something about watching snow flakes drifting down outside whilst watching from the warmth of our sitting room. Not so good when you have to get the car out for the school run though! Have a great weekend.
I just found you?! Seriously, where have I been? I received a copy of A Fine Romance for Christmas and have rewarded myself with a few pages each evening after Everthing Else. I’m enchanted and charmed by everything. Stay warm and thank you. From a new fan!
Hi Ginger! Nice to meet you! So happy you like the book!
Hi Susan,
I too love the magic of snow from the comforts of home her in NJ. Was sorry that most of it fell last night and overnight/this morning in the dark… I took pictures of juncos, titmice, little chickadees (my fav), cardinals, finches and cardinals outside my breakfast room window–so enjoyable to watch!
I have this saved to my toolbar on my computer–crackling fireplace video accompanied by Christmas songs!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qL56qqwlsRc&feature=youtu.be
So funny, Joe throwing the snow at you inside and Jack trying to be part of the action!
Take care–be warm as this arctic blast of cold blows in….
Happy New Year–all the best in 2014!
I can hardly stand the coziness of your pictures!! It has been below 0 here, and we, also, had the big Hercules storm, and he left us with a good foot or more of fresh snow! Love the pictures you posted, Susan. I also, am a fan of Howards’ End, LOVE it!!! I hope you have seen-’84 Charing Cross Road’, also with Anthony Hopkins and Ann Bancroft along with beautiful Judi Dench…Fabulous movie, and right up the ally of Howard’s End. The setting is a book store in England…need I say more??? Thank you for this first 2014 blog, inspiring, heartwarming, and cheerful as always!!
Glad you too are enjoying the fire, etc. I’m bundled up and going nowhere!
Great blog! So excited to see all that snow!!! It’s gorgeous & sunny & maybe 65 here today, but a little rain & snow would be lovely!!! Incredible the geniuses figured out how to bring back the sand, & amazing! The crackling fireplace is a treat, & so’s the beautiful music! The birds, the shovel of snow in our faces from cutey Joe, the soup, the book – I’m ooing and aahing – but, back to tucking away Christmas whilst listening to Bing – oh wait, I can put it off awhile longer, it’s lunchtime!!! Thank you thank you dear Susan and GFs, I treasure our times together! Happy Healthy New Year! ♥ Joanie
What a wonderful post! Thank you so much for sharing it with us all. You have such a magical way of making everything you touch beautiful and warm. Best wishes for this coming new year!
Susan,
What a wonderful movie. I just finished watching !THE LAST OF THE BLONDE BOMBSHELLS, with Judi Dench. One could say it was lazy of me to sip tea and watch BUT I don’t care, haha. ( This is the beauty of snowstorms). I hope you are having a Downton Abby celebration this weekend/ can’t wait till Sunday! Enjoy………
How interesting the dredging looks…thanks for the video. One thing I miss about the east coast is the child-like feeling of wonder when you’re snowed in!! Love seeing the birds out the window, too. I would love to watch Howard’s End with you but I have some errands to run….maybe later. By the way, I can see you in the kitchen window reflection!! That was fun. Hope you and all the girlfriends have a great day!
I forgot to tell you……your book of days (the new one) inspired my daughter, Emilie(who met you in SLO at Remnants) to water color us paintings for Christmas! She painted me a beautiful hummingbird that we photographed at the Madonna Inn. She’s a natural artist disguised as a chemistry teacher! She loves your new book of days. You are sooooooo contagious. Have you noticed that all things Beatrix Potter have just about doubled their price on Amazon? You’ve got to be England’s best PR person!
How great for Emilie! Yes, I hope England and I are a forever thing!
A watercolor artist AND a chemistry teacher is so interesting to me. And I received the new Beatrix Potter book for Christmas – it is excellent.
As soon as I got up this morning I searched for a webcam in Martha’s Vineyard. I kind of wish we had gotten some of that snow, but it is just very cold here in South Carolina . . . high today of 36 degrees, but it only feels like 28. We got lots of precipitation yesterday in the form of rain. Joe looks really cold out there shoveling all that snow . . . his cheeks are rosy. Thanks for the video of the birds at your feeders. I love to watch the birds at all my feeders. We had a couple of mean old crow kill one of our Cardinals about a month ago. I wanted to kill the crows, but they are very smart and my husband said that it is illegal to kill crows. Hope you don’t lose your power. Stay inside where it is warm and cozy, but if you and Joe decide to have a snowball fight, please videotape it for us. BIG smile!
I have a problem with crows too. They are a bit much.
My husband, Norm, calls them the “hoods of the bird kingdom”…
Agree! Egg thieves, baby stealers.
I saw a blue jay beat up a couple of robins last spring! Just terrible.
Brrrrr…….so glad you are inside by that warm, cozy fire with candles lit and snuggly Jack! Joe looks absolutely FREEZING with his little red cheeks! Men DO seem to love the snowy, freezing weather. My husband is going to a Green Bay Packers football game on Sunday and it’s supposed to be the 3rd coldest game in the history of the Packers football! And they sit there for 3+ hours! While, in the meantime, I am warm in my down quilt here at home with a cup of tea! 🙂
Enjoy your beautiful weather and the birdy heaven! 🙂 xo
Susan,
Glad to know you are safely esconced in your beautiful, warm, cozy home during such exciting weather!!! Like always, you know how to make the most out of it.
I’ll be getting ready for our own dose of snow, wind and scary cold temperatures here in central IL this weekend. We’re supposed to have sub-zero temperatures before the wind chill takes effect, yikes!!! The coldest it’s been in over 20 years. Time for a fire, musica and lots of comfort food!!!
We’re even making preparations to bring our precious Pekin ducks into the garage from their lovely pen, I call it “Duckingham Palace!” Just so we know they’ll truly be warm enough and safe from the elements. They are just darlings, we love them so!
I do believe I’ll be ordering a new “Book of Days” for myself. I have the original version too when it first came out, delightful!
Warm, safe, cozy hugs and oodles of love to start your New Year!
XooX,
Jeanette
Although I loved the whole post (as I always do), I will never get used to the sight of that bright red cardinal that appears at your window. That is absolutely magical! I also appreciate the fact that Christmas doesn’t seem to have left your house… Ours either! It’s too much fun to let it go so quickly!
One last thing… the book “Home for Christmas”… Since seeing it for the first time in one of your earlier posts, I bought it and loved it. What a cozy story. If you and the girlfriends want to read several other really fabulous Christmas stories from the same period, try Bess Streeter Aldrich’s collection called “Journey Into Christmas”. You’ll read it year after year, just as I read Miss Read’s “The Christmas Mouse”, “Village Christmas” and “No Holly for Miss Quinn” every year.
Happy New Year to all of you!
Thanks for the recommendations, Jake! I just wrote them down.
Happy New Year!
I love reading your blog!!! It’s so much fun to see all the wonderful things you cook and the way you’ve decorated your beautiful historic home for each season and the great creative things you come up with! I’m definitely going to treat myself and buy your book this month. I wish you could have made it out here to Oregon for one of your book signings! Someday my husband and i will make it back to the Northeast to see all the beautiful sights but in the mean time I’ll keep reading your blog and get my inspiration from all your great ideas…keep up the good work and have a happy new year!!
p.s. we may get to go to England this summer and I’ll use your book as a guide for things we’d like to see!
Pam
Yes, the big wheel has turned again and we will only come this way once! We have to enjoy everything that live gives us! And why is grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup so good!!!
Happy New Year!
You, have just painted a picture perfect world for me Susan, thankyou! It brings back lovely memories of our trip to the Cape and a visit to the Vineyard where I bought your lovely book and the new calendar (which I love!) a few short months ago. It must be wonderful to live somewhere you know the summers are usually warm and sunny and the winters cold and snowy. I wish you a very happy 2014 and look forward to your lovely future posts.
The dredging is fabulous and fascinating! I had no idea that was done on the Vineyard! Thanks for sharing.
We have a very cold day in the NC mtns. This morning’s wind chill was -11… the goaties were snug, but glad for hay. The hens are most likely on strike! Who wants to lay eggs when it is soooo cold??
I set up the heater and painted my bathroom — take a deep breath — smokey lavender. I think it is perfect for the snow day!
Enjoy the day snug-as-a-bug-in-a-rug!
It sounds beautiful …. smokey lavender!
I thought of you today Susan, as I heard the weather forecast for the east coast! I AM glad to hear and see you are doing just fine in your blizzard. (doesn’t it feel good to know someone is thinking about you!). It sounds like you have everything you need to get through it, fire, kitty, good movie, a honey, good food. What more could a girl want? We are getting cold temps here in MN. They are talking about -25 for a low Sunday! That’s not including a windchill either! Burrrrrrrr. Stay warm!
Hi Susan, I haven’t read your post yet, but I have to tell you that I just put away my Christmas decorations in the basement and passed by a letter I tacked up on the work bench that was in my grandmother’s writing that says “God gives us memories so that we can have roses in December” and then I come up and it is on your post!!!! Okay, now that I’ve told you that I will go back and read your wonderful post.
Amazing!
Even tho we escaped winter in Chicago by migrating to our home in Naples, FL…I enjoy watching your snowfall very much! And I LOVE to sit by the fire and read when we are still north in December…and miss that from our tropical paradise! Thanks so much for sharing!
~ Good Afternoon ~ It has finally stopped snowing here in SE Wisconsin 10+ inches in the last couple days~ now the below zeros ~ -6 this morning and going down even lower Sunday into Monday~ yikes! Too cold!~ And the Packer game Sunday afternoon ~ I’ll be staying home ~ I’ve gone before when it’s been snowing and blowing but that’s too cold for me and my old bones! ~ I’ll be praying for anyone who has to be out in this weather ~ especially the homeless ~ Thank God for shelters ! ~ Be safe girlfriends ~ this weather is nothing to take lightly ~ Extra Warm Hugs ~
I like to see a sensible woman! Hi Lynn!!! Go Pack Go!
Thanks Margot! 😉
~ I told an “untruth” ~ STILL Snowing ~ !
Lynn, we were commenting on how HARD that frozen ground is going to be to run on and fall on! Not snowing here but winds from the North and so extremely cold that it is hard to not feel it inside near the windows even with the furnace running…I ordered a pair of flannel-lined jeans and they are just the ticket–with a turtleneck, wool sweater, and wool shawl over that! My “at home daily outfit” this winter! 🙂
It must have stopped for the game. I didn’t see any flakes. So much excitement, but no go. I thought that SD would be too cold to play in GB.
Hey Pat! I used to have a pair of jeans like that. I loved them!
~ Hi ~ Snow has stopped but freezing cold! ~ I don’t have jeans like that but hubby does ~ I have several layers on yoga pants ~ cuddle duds ~ more cuddle duds~
I have to go out today to watch grandkids ~ my sister said see saw something that said if you blow bubbles out inside in -20 temps they will freeze?? ~ I just may try it?
Lynn, have you ever tried taking a glass of water and tossing the water up and out in the air when it is this cold? Try it…you will be amazed… Gosh, is this a statement of what the cold has done to our brains as to what we do for entertainment here when it is this cold??? LOL! 🙂
“Ocean Effect” snow still swirling in Chatham at 3:30 pm. Thank goodness for our snow blower, but fun to shovel deck and stairs just for the exercise. We take our 4 mile walk every morning to Hardings Beach and, like you, need only the littlest thing like a dredging pipe, a home that still had the post light on, or spying a heron in a marsh to keep us gabbing! My mother introduced me to Gladys Taber and I have a collection of several of her books. Fun to find her Cape house in Orleans, but a little sad that it is so overgrown. Bet she would have loved today’s snowstorm!
You know she would!
I was looking out at the same wintery scene this morning here in my VERY ch ch ch chilly 221 year old house in Wickford Village with 221 year old original windows sucking all the heat out and I think I maybe even had on a few more layers than you Sue! My nose is pink and a wee bit nippy to touch but I still LOVE Winter and snow! Just received my 2014 Calendar in the mail a few days ago and just this minute ordered the Book of Days. I LOVE your work, your blog and all your pictures. Happy New Year to you and Joe and Jack and Girl.
Charming Wickford Village and 221 year old original windows! How wonderful!
Greetings from Pacific Palisades CA. Love seeing how you enjoy your winter storms. .Daughter Lynn in Chelmsford has 12 inches and 8 degrees. Every year is a new beginning of adventures. Hoping that it will be a wonderful year for all of us.
Just hung your calendar in my computer room…hated to take down the other one but always save them. I’m a 2013 cancer survivor thanks to early detection and marvelous surgeons, radiologists, and science. Mammogram detection saved my life as I could not have found it myself. Trust your mammogram results! Had to finally get an MRI biopsy to diagnose and have a lumpectomy. Twenty years ago this would have been a death sentence (I’m 77). Every day is a gift! Cheers!
Such strides forward, and look at you, how wonderful!
Like you, my mammogram and subsequent biopsies requires me to have my lumpectomy in November and I am now undergoing radiation. A positive attitude makes all the difference and the experiences just make you stronger. I previously was diagnosed and treated for Ovarian cancer including radiation and chemo and remain optimistic during this latest bump in the road. Here’s to a very Happy New Year for us all.
Susan, thank you for sharing your incredible snow day! In my sunny AZ home, it is chilly! Don’t laugh (oh, feel free to!), it must be 60+ degrees. That’s in the shade, it is blissfully 70 in the sun! I would love a snow day, but that’s okay. I am happy where I am and we shall visit some snow day places, still. Thanks for the movies you mentioned, I watched the “trailers” and those are just my cup of tea! Will cozy up, with my daughter, while she is still on school break, and enjoy!
We’re expecting more snow tonight, but I know what we can do.
My friend sent me an article about the cost of all the Twelve Days of Christmas gifts – now up to $114,000.
Most expensive item – Nine ladies dancing – $7,553 per performance
Least expensive – Eight maids a-milking – $58 because they get minimum wage.
So, Girlfriends, no milking – let’s dance.
That should keep us warm.
I agree! Let’s dance…no more barn work for me. LOL
Oh Susan how I do love your post. You make me smile. You make me happy. I can just see myself sitting by the fire with you having a cup of tea, holding Jack in my lap and we’re talking or maybe we’re both reading a book. Whatever we’re doing we’re enjoying ourselves. I look forward to your next post, you bring me peace.
We got 13 inches here in IL! It snowed for 24 hours straight! I love it too … I made shepherds pie, bundled up my babies, lit a candle … winter magic 🙂
Such a wonderful post today! I love the video of the dredging and the birds. My mother and I watched the news last night and when they announced a blizzard was coming there we both looked at each other and shouted, “Wish we were on Martha’s Vineyard!” We have the freezing cold here in Kansas, but not so much snow yet. I am hoping for a bit more over the weekend.
I know you will enjoy Howard’s End, I love that movie, also Remains of the Day. Kind of the same people, but a lot more details in each scene. It puts you in the right mood for the start of Downton Abbey on Sunday!
Speaking of DA…we are planning a fun watch party here. We are making a delicious roast with lots of yummy root vegetables, and tea and biscuits. I have 4 daughters aged 6, 9, 11 and 14, and we are all dressing in our best dresses to sit and watch. (Should we wear black to mourn Matthew?) Ooooo, I just can’t wait!!
Keep warm and safe! Happy 2014!
I know where I’ll be on Sunday!
Hi there, Susan!
Your pics make me miss living on the beach in Marshfield, Mass. Once when we lived there, in a small pink cabin, there was a hurricane, & we were out of power for four days. We didn’t feel this was a tragedy. We had a gas stove & sat in the kitchen with our feet in the oven. 🙂 Now I live near New Hampshire, which is also beautiful. In fact, I got to meet you at the Toadstool Bookshop in Milford, NH, which is just a few minutes from where I live. We do get more snow here. I “love winter, snow, and ice” (just like Madeleine) ~ right now it looks like the Snow Queen’s realm ~ everything covered in a clean, white magic carpet. I’m commenting because you said you <3 to read them, and also to let you know, I was *just* thinking about writing things down every day, just the way you described it… to remember what I did each day ~ I wish I'd done more of that sooner… but, no time like the present. Also just wanted to let you know, it was SUCH a pleasure to meet you (I always knew we'd meet one day!) ~ you really exude a loveliness. xoxo ~ Diane
There’s a quote I love “The best time to plant an oak tree is 25 years ago. The second best time is now.
I was totally captivated by your blog this am! The dredging which I witnessed in Maine as a young girl and the most adorable birds at the feeder!!! I’m writing from the Arizona desert but soon to move back to New England!!!! I’ve been day dreaming recently of the things I’ve missed and will soon be able to enjoy again. One that I’ve missed the most are the birds!!!! I always had lots of feeders with lots of birds. Your video brought tears to my eyes……tears of joy…..for a preview of what I may soon see for myself once again. I’ve enjoyed our years, eighteen of them, in the beautiful southwestern desert. But, it’s time to go back, back to New England.
I know just how you feel, that tug on the heart. Look for a house that has kitchen windows where bird feeders can be hung.
I have bird feeders and a bird block outside my kitchen window and love watching the quail, roadrunners and yes, even a red (AZ) cardinal just like yours! Must say it looks a little different on a palo verde green background than on your white canvas 🙂 Chirp chirp ♥
Susan, I have your Days from the Heart of the Home day to day book and love it. Each morning I write or draw my happiest moment of the day before. I have been doing this for 2 years. It’s fun to look back on my fondest memories.
Thank you for your blogs. They are a ray of sunshine.
The lovely way you describe your days and the pictures that accompany them are so enjoyable. They make one feel so cozy and warm, and of course Jack just adds so much to the narrative. My cat MYLO wishes she could have half the personality of Jack although they do share a love of watching those birds outside seeming to have so much fun. Thanks so much for always making my day so much better.
“It’s a marshmellow world in the winter!” Nature is doing what she is supposed to be doing and we find delight! “God has given us memories that we might have roses in December.” Four years ago in 2009, we lost my Dad to cancer 3 days after Christmas. I had framed this verse with roses and it was placed near his casket at the funeral home during bereavement services. To read those words here touched my heart. 🙂 Tomorrow is the anniversary memorial mass for both my parents. Mom passed the year before Dad did in 2008…3 days after Thanksgiving. They both loved the holidays and it is this season that will forever belong to them.
For the memories Tina…