Today is the 32nd Anniversary of my move from California to Martha’s Vineyard. (MUSICA) On March 5, 1982, at around three in the afternoon, I was bundled up, 
standing at the rail on the ferry with my eyes tearing in the freezing wind, looking out over the choppy waves at the blurry island slowly coming into focus as we came closer. The foghorn blew from the lighthouse, church spires and chimneys trailing smoke poked above the tree line. When I got there I thought I would look in the paper, find a furnished place to rent and stay for three months. I wanted to see what it was like to live in New England and have seasons. So I was going to see winter turn to spring and then to summer. That was my plan. The whole entire plan.
This is the little house I bought about a week after I arrived. Buying a house 3,000 miles from everyone and everything I had known and loved was not part of the plan. It was actually a bit of an accident because I was at loose ends and there was a really cute old-fashioned stove in that kitchen. So now I had a 9′ x 9′ bedroom to decorate in forget-me-not blue wallpaper where I would wake from now on and see snow falling outside the windows, or leaf shadows shimmering on the walls. Me and three kitties to keep me warm. The doorway to my future and in such an unsuspected place.
The thing I love most about time passing is how I can look back and see everything falling into place. Just as it was meant to be. Thirty two Years! The best accident I was ever in! My prayer:
Sky, be my depth;
Wind, be my width and my height;
World, my heart’s span;
Loneliness, wings for my flight.
♥ Leonora Speyer
Happy Anniversary, Susan. What a lovely little house, a happy accident and a beautiful prayer. This all reminds me of my first apartment and being so young and having my whole life in front of me just waiting to be lived!
Oh, dear Susan, it was no accident. It was meant to be. Here’s to the next 32 years!
My dad and I were talking about that this morning, the next 32 years! Here’s to your next too Shannon!
It’s lovely the way things work out. We have to trust our instincts and our need for comfort and solace. Your little house provided just that (and the kitties, of course). So happy that you’re where you are now – we reap the benefit!!
Thank you Teresa!
Things happen for a reason.
You moved there to start your new life and to enjoy what life brought you.
I hope that you continue to enjoy what life brings forth.
Counting my blessings. Thank you Maureen.
Oooh!… Happy Anniversary of your new life beginning 32 years ago today!… I am so proud of you for taking that leap of faith and following your heart… I have a quote on my blog, since day one that reads “follow your heart… it knows the way”… see?… your heart lead you to your island of dreams… your home of your dreams… the adorable man of your dreams… the Seasons of your dreams… so much more… what are you and Joe doing to celebrate???… I would just want to stay home, cozy fire… snuggle up and count my blessings… oh, and some chocolate cake wouldn’t hurt either!… much love. xoxoxo Julie Marie PS Your beautiful life and all you share makes my life beautiful too…
By the time I got here, I wasn’t sure my heart could be trusted anymore!
We’re talking about celebrating, because tomorrow is also the anniversary of our first “date” that I wrote about in the book! Then Valentine’s Day! It never ends!
Oooh, how exciting your anniversaries are so close together… I love love love the story of your first date you wrote about in your book!… truly the beginning of “A Fine Romance” in sooo many ways!… makes me happy happy happy!… also love love love that you and your daddy were talking about both of your “next 32 years”… hello blog daddy!… he seems 21 years old to me… xoxoxo…..
Darling and perfect for where you were “at the time”. Did you name it Holly Oak or was that already the name! Who lives there now?
That photo was taken by the realtor the same day I said I’ll take it which was the first time I’d seen it … it came with that name. I know the person who lives there now, she’s changed it quite a lot.
I’ve told my hubby that when I am really old I could be very happy in a tiny cottage – if I could have a garden.
I wouldn’t mind going back to live in that little house. But Joe’s head almost brushed the very low ceilings.
Ohhhh, I hope for your book she will let you take pictures of the inside (and outside).
She did!
WOWie…….this is exciting. I can’t wait.
Happy Anniversary Susan! What a beautiful little house. Just love this post!!
Be blessed!!
So happy you set your feet firmly on that ferry to Martha’s Vineyard! “Holly Oak” should be declared a national monument~do they have Blue Plaque status in America? Well, this sweet little cottage should be top of the list!
Sending Warmest Wishes for A Happy, Happy Anniversary!
Debs in Wales
Waving from Across The Pond xoxo
I don’t think we have blue plaques here, too funny Debs! Waving back, missing your world very much!
Wondering… is “blue plaque” status similar to the National Trust [UK] or the National Register of Historic Places [US]?
found this link for you Janet, it might help
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_plaque
Oh thank you, Debs!
Hmmm, you won’t be missing our weather right now.
Debs, I was named after the Rhondda Valley in Wales. It is my dream to visit there one day. I have family in Rhuddlan area and she is always telling me how terrible your weather is there lately…so much flooding. Hard to hear that.
..oh, dear Susan..’wishing you a very happy anniversary !!..’love your story and love your prayer !!..’think I will print it and post it somewhere special !!..’love you and all that you do !!..with love, as always..(‘guess that’s a lot of love goin’ on…lol..)
Fits in perfectly around here Mary!
Hi Sue,
I remember that little house well. I came to visit you there…and actually before that even. Can’t believe it’s been 32 years. I’m glad you keep track of time, because I am definitely in a time warp. I do have pictures somewhere…will have to dig them up. What an awesome beginning for you! But you have worked hard for it.
Congratulations! Say hello to Joe. Love, Chris
Hi Chris! Yes, you did! So nice to hear from you. Yes, dig up those photos ~ I would love to see them! Hello to the family from us!
Your life is a “celebration”, Miz Susan…and you make ours a celebration too! Reading your blog when it surfaces brings happiness to all of us…and for that I say thank you from all your girlfriends (hope that is okay girlfriends?).
I first encountered Susan while on a business trip to San Luis Obispo on the market Thursday when street is closed down and vendors (mostly food and known for their barbecued ribs) and I wandered into a book shop. I was totally entranced with Heart of the Home (her first book had just come out) and wrote my first ever ORCHID letter – and to my heart of hearts – got a handwritten note reply from Susan. HOOKED ever since!
I would be interested in finding out how other people came in contact with her. How about you?
Love this Linda! Thank you!
Linda, In reply to your question of “how did I get to know about Susan?” I took the “Country Living” magazine, zillions of years ago, when Susan was writing a one page illustrated recipe. I loved her illustrations so much. I’d clip out the page she’d illustrated & put them into a special notebook of my favorite recipes. Then, many years later, someone told me about Susan’s web. I’m now hooked. Susan, all the GF’s, the kitties, the turkeys, & Martha’s Vineyard are all a part of my daily life. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
Linda, I “found” Susan about three years ago. I am a fan of the author Gladys Taber and was searching the internet for information related to her. Turns out that Susan is also a Gladys fan…previous owners of her first little MV house left one of Gladys’ books behind. Gladys passed away shortly before Susan moved to the island, I believe, but Susan was taken by the book and Gladys’ outlook on life. They share the same birthday, and I know they are kindred spirits! Gladys lived in a centuries old farmhouse, Stillmeadow, in CT. This year fans of Gladys will gather in CT at the Friends of Gladys Taber reunion, and members of the organization will be treated to a visit from Susan herself.
Hi Linda,
I met Susan when I was hired to take over her job so she could move on to more creative things in the company. We worked in an office UNDERNEATH that “closed” street! We were young and into music . . .
I now live in Oregon and fondly call San Luis the “land of eternal summer” because – there are no real seasons. (-:
Ellen
I love the way you put that Ellen!! More creative things 🙂 Very good!
Miss that Farmer’s Mkt and linguica-on-a-stick from McLintocks (not healthy fare, but delish)….grew up in Pismo Beach but ‘met’ Susan when I started delivering mail in SLO & she & her then-husband were on my mail route. I was the substitute on Sat. & vacation/sick days & had fun meandering all along the back roads & country club area where Susan lived at the tippy-top. Your mail carrier knows a lot more about you than you may think! I used to see cute artfully decorated envelopes in her mailbox waiting for me to pick up….and the first Dick Blick catalog I ever remember seeing, I carefully placed inside. Years later after I’d moved to Seattle, I read my subscriber issue of Country Living magazine & a lovely watercolor painted recipe page by someone named Susan Branch. “Is that MY Susan Branch?” I wondered. Lo & behold! Years & books later….here we are, true girlfriends still 🙂
Amazing Tisa! What a small world! Back in the constant letter writing days! What would I have done without you!
I’ll chime in here as well! I honestly can’t remember where I first encountered Susan…I feel like she and her books have always been a part of my life! I went to college at Cal Poly SLO and I’d hazard a guess that the bookstore Linda mentioned above was the Earthling! Two of my best friends and I still make the annual pilgrimage to SLO and on our last visit I gave the girls each an SB girlfriends’ charm (I have one too!) and one of them gave me Susan’s England book (which OF COURSE I already owned!) Just shows how well we all know each other! Love SLO and love SB!
Linda, yes, it is more than OK to thank Susan from this girlfriend. I have not met Susan, yet, but I do feel close to her. I love her life and that she shares so much of it with us. You’re right, when there’s a new blog, I put on a happy face even before I read it, because I know it will make me feel so good! Good way to put it, her life is a celebration. And I’m happy to share in it! Cheers and Happy Anniversay to you Susan! xox
I was “introduced” to Sue by my SIL in the late 80s [1987 I think]. We were browsing in a bookstore and when we do that, we always make a beeline for the cookbooks. She was looking at something, I had moved down to the next raft of books. Then she comes over, handing me this book saying, “OMG, Janet – you have GOT to see this book! You’ll love this – it is completely your style. The recipes, the old-fashioned look – everything…” And boy was she right!
hi, I’m just trying again to see if my post shows up. I did one yesterday that isn’t here–that’s been happening. And they’re nice! xox
Happy Anniversary, today and tomorrow! 🙂
I’m SO happy for you, Susan! You are so right in seeing later on that there was a BIG PICTURE and each little segment of our lives makes the whole. Without the bad, you’d never have had the WONDERFUL…….that you so deserve!
We are so grateful that you have shared so much with us and let us be “your girlfriends.” Your anniversaries of the heart are special to us because you’ve let us love you…….and we do!
I sure would enjoy hearing how you came to have your three little kitty companions when you moved to that house if you don’t mind sharing that. Did they just come with the house? Were they siblings that had been abandoned or did you start asking about where to find a kitty? Or? Please share with all of us pet lovers! We love stories about your babies! Hope your day is ever so sweet!
Getting the kitties was number one first on my to do list once I realized what I had done!
March 5th…or February 5th?
It’s March and I got ahead of myself. Oh well. It’s there now, and I planned to celebrate all month anyway! 🙂
…I was also wondering… but, yay, anyway !!…here’s to celebrating all month long.. and then some !!
Considering that you’re immersed in 2015, you did very well to get within a month of it 😉
LOL, Thank you, it’s so funny, Joe just keeps looking at me! It’s true, I AM doing the March page of the 2015 calendar today!
That’s so funny Susan because when I read March I thought wait. What month IS this? Me who has my 2014 Christmas fabric ordered and is planning events and classes for summer and fall. I totally understand!! lol
I’ve been shaking my head at myself all day!
Be good to yourself on that one Susan. After all you are months ahead in th 2015 calendar you are making for us so no harm, no foul.
🙂 Karen!
Whew! I thought it was ME who had the wrong month! We’ve been without power for 32 hours (since Wednesday a.m.) and feel I’ve come out of a time warp after candles to read by, cooking food in the fireplace, sleeping under 2 comforters, and carting snow in to flush toliets…..coming back to 2013 and finding it to be March was a real shock!
Welcome back Cathy!
I love this so much. Sometimes I want to do something big like that, just up and move away from everything familiar. I’d love to live in a house with a name! 🙂
I would never tell someone to do that because permanent homesickness is part of the bargain, but I wouldn’t change a thing.
Every house can have a name! I’m keeping a just-in-case list of possibilities myself – just in case I ever win the lottery…
I know what you mean about permanent homesickness. I wouldn’t change a thing either. We would have never found our Prince Charmings, if we wouldn’t have moved. 🙂
That’s right. We had to do it.
Thank you God. You took a broken girl and led her to a place ;you had prepared for her into the arms of a man who would take care of her. We share in the graciousness of it with our precious girlfriend. We are thankful God .
I am thankful, God and tell Him every day. Thank you God.
Dear Susan, Ditto on the prayer. You are definitely counted in my prayers as one of my blessings. I’ve been mourning the loss of the love of my life, & you & the GF’s have brought smiles & joy to me as I try to work myself into better, happier times. Much LOVE & admiration to you, Joe, & your adorable Kitties, on your Anniversary. You are certainly one brave woman. I’m going to add BRAVE to my list of adjectives that describe wonderful you. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
An anniversary of Great Courage although you probably didn’t feel courageous at all at the time – thank you for sharing this encouraging part of your story with us. And tomorrow – meeting Joe anniversary, yahoo!!!
PS: Um, I hate to mention it, but today is February 5. . . heh.
LOL, and I mean ROTFLOL, because you are so right and I am one month, MONTH, ahead. Because it was MARCH 5th, not February. Oh well, I like to celebrate for a month.
Nope, more lost than courageous.
I enjoyed this post so much. Makes me think back on why I didn’t go somewhere else to live when my marriage ended. I just didn’t have the courage you had. It all worked out for you, which is wonderful. As it turned out, I met a wonderful man, and we were married 20 years until he passed in 2004.
Your blog is great, love reading it.
See? You did just the right thing by staying. And if I hadn’t gone, I wouldn’t have met Joe, might not even write books.
And Susan, maybe someone needed to read about your experience 32 years ago now rather than next month….
Could be!
Dearest Susan, how I appreciate your sentimental reflection. Having been through a difficult divorce 7 years ago, I find that I, too, look back on the anniversary each year and discover the amazing ways that God continues to unveil greater connections between all the steps I’ve taken with my life since that difficult time. It is amazing… what starts out as seemingly unconnected and coincidental events actually ends up being completely connected, and we find that we are being led on a very clear path to something greater than we could have ever imagined ourselves. But where will that path end up leading us next year??? We can only wait and see when next year arrives…. and then we’ll wonder to ourselves again, “How have I been fortunate enough to get here? Who would have thought that doing _______ would have led to _________?” Time has a funny way of revealing the bigger picture. We’re all masterpieces in the making!
Many blessings to you, Susan, and all the Girlfriends reading along as we continue on our journeys this year.
That is beautiful Samantha! Well said!
It was meant to be! A perfect beginning to your life as an artist and your life with Joe. I’m so happy that both worked out! LOL!
Hi Susan, I love the little house. You were so brave to move like that. I remember taking the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard……I was blown away, when I saw buses, trucks getting off the ferry. I never dreamed it was that big. I love every thing I saw that day. Such an adventure. Blessings to you and Joe, hope you have enjoyed all your years there. xoxo,Susie
Happy Anniversary in a Month. You are used to working a year ahead…why not celebrate a month ahead. The Tadpole cake I told you about in the still in moderation comment on your last post…was also housewarming cake for one of our dining club members. If I were baking you a cake that is how I would decorate it 🙂 You can see it on my blog.
It was so brave of you to make such a big change in your life…and one that changed you life in a big way. Congratulations!!! …for a month and beyond 🙂
Love your insight! Amazing how perspective changes when we are able to look back. I have seen that I was where I needed to be when we bought our lovely farm house to raise our 2 boys and then have the space to add three grandchildren who are also now grown. I know there is something special watching over us to guide us if we just listen!!
You found your perfect place and home!
This made me cry!
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
What a mental picture…..makes us girlfriends just feel the cold wind and the angst of you wondering what would happen next………………
“I was bundled up, standing at the rail on the ferry with my eyes tearing in the freezing wind, looking out over the choppy waves at the blurry island.”
I read this and all I could feel was…..you had a brave soul, for as sad, lonely or confused as you must have been feeling……something brave inside of you was propelling you onward. And…..a week after arrival…”Holly Oak”…..a foundation to build upon for your own “Heart of the Home”……Brave !
So many challenges face us all, some things change, others never do….but without that spark….”a brave heart”….I think we sometimes become stuck.
Your sharing of your story is inspiring…..and now, looking back, the struggles and hard times……the joys and the laughter you experienced, have given you the abilities to touch the hearts of many…….exposing yourself in such a real way…..again….Brave !
Thank you for the light you shine out for us all to see, and for helping us to remember that simple things are sometimes the most meaningful of all……you help us to take another step forward and be brave too.
Susan, I’m celebrating all month with you and your journey to find what was right for you. What nerve it must have taken to move so far from friends and family. Your life’s work reflects it was just right for you. I do wonder, how did you choose Martha’s Vineyard? Such a small little island so far from home. Thank you for all you share. xoxo ♥
I’ll tell you someday.
Oh I can’t wait!!! Another book is brewing!! xoxo ♥
Happy Anniversary! You ended up in a very beautiful place! Here’s to many, many more years of happiness.
Candy
I’m picturing your tiny bedroom with charming forget-me-knot wallpaper. I bet your former home was cosy and beautiful, just on a smaller scale than the beautiful one you have now. Happy Moving Anniversary to you, Susan!
Wishing you a bright future,
Karen
Happy Anniversary—magical, simply magical how you found your destiny !
Happy Anniversary of the Best Life Ever ..I had butterflies reading your blog today..it’s all so wonderful !!
Congrats on your anniversary, Sue. Whenever it is – LOL!! And you BOUGHT that little house – you didn’t rent it! No way I would have trusted my instincts enough [at that stage anyway] to have bought a house when the original plan was “rent for 3 months.” You are far braver than me, my friend. PS – hope you have a post about “Holly Oak” planned for some point in the future. Love to see that cute old-fashioned stove [and those gopher-huntin’ kitties]. ⭐️
Couldn’t let someone else get that stove! And it was so cheap at the time, compared to everything in California. I approached it as I would buying a dress. Not that I should have, but that was my frame of mind at the time. The non-thinking thing was turned on.
SOS! SOS! SOS! (I’m still an Abba fan!) Will anyone in the know about the woman who was turning 90 (?) & who was hopefully to receive B’Day cards from all of us GF’s, PLEASE let me know if the woman really did receive all of the cards? I’m really curious. I’ve asked about this before, but no one’s picked the message up, I guess. Thanks so much, (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
I love how when you look back you see all the little (and big) things that had to happen to for you to be where you are. I think that’s why you don’t get as stressed as you get older. 🙂 Happy Anniversary!
I was wondering which camera you have….it takes beautiful pictures and my husband and I are looking for a new one.
Maureen
Happy Anniversary’s one month early. You’re like me, sometimes it’s never too soon to celebrate. Aaaaaah destiny……..when it comes right down to it, aren’t we all happy to be sharing in the moments that make up our lives….
Hugs from the Ice Palace (that’s because everything outside is frozen like a popcicle STILL!!)
from great pain, came a wonderful life……….
Heaven always has a better plan for us.
I agree with Samantha (having gone through a painful divorce myself)……………..
You continue to inspire us by letting us share in your life story……..Blessings to you Susan.
wow – I just so admire your courage. my son did the opposite by leaving new England and going out to California all by himself a couple of years ago and did not know a soul. I was very proud of him for daring to do this and missed him like crazy. He is back on east coast again but it sure made a brave man out of him. enjoy all your upcoming special celebrations !!!
Happy Early Anniversary! I laughed out loud when i saw you were a month ahead. THAT IS SO ME! In my job i’m always doing things months ahead so i loose all track of today!.
I love that you can just laugh it off and “YES celebrate it all month long!”
I to am so thankful to God for sending you to Marthas Vineyard so i can live the seasons thru you. I am very grateful to live in Sunny California but i do miss the seasons changing so its fun to see your fireplace and look out your window!
Thanks for letting this girlfriend get so nosey in your life.
I find that I’ll be talking to my sister in-law and say “that happened to a friend of mine” and then realise no i read that on Susan’s blog! lol Thanks again for sharing and while i’m at work i can dream about the things i’d love to be doing locked in at home!
Prayers and God Bless you and Joe!
I have to say it – February 5th isn’t your anniversary – it is your anniversary (MINUS) one month. I’m sure someone or lots of someones have already pointed this out but I haven’t read the comments.
Anyway – enjoy your snowy day – its been snowing and sleeting and snowing up here on the Hudson River – and as people say they can’t wait for winter to be over, I smile and think, I LOVE the snow and sleet and cold – its where I live and its in me as much as the blood running through my veins.
Yes, I am learning this the hard silly way. Janie pointed toward the calendars I’m working on, and I just realized, all day I’ve been on MARCH!
Susan, you took a leap of faith and landed squarely on your feet. Sometimes you just have to sink or swim and most of the time we manage to swim. My, aren’t I original, lol. Congratulations – 32 years. Lovely that you can perhaps visit that dear, sweet house from time to time. Enjoy your celebrations with Joe and the kitties. Keep warm. We’re in the middle of a snowstorm here today.
My dream is to come spend a summer in a cottage on Nantucket but can’t figure out who would take care of my garden here in Mo. Happy Anniversary! Jan
What a sweet post! It is nice to look back and see things so clearly. I remember a few times when I made some major changes and I felt both afraid and hopeful. Congratulations to you and wishing you the best for the next 32 years!
I can’t believe the courage that it took. You make me feel like a
wimp for wondering if I can stay here with family 6 hours away!
So far, so good. Did you bring the kitties with you? Was that
before we met you in Country Living? I have a folder with all of
those beautiful illustrations and recipes. Imagine how happy I
was when I found you and your artwork and recipes again!
Also, how did you get to MV? By plane, train?
My Kitties in California had died, so that’s why new kitties were number one on my list. I hadn’t written any books; Country Living wasn’t until maybe 6 or 7 years later. I went by plane. I still flew then. But you’re not a wimp, you probably don’t have a voice in your head telling you you have to go!
Susan,
Kudos to you for having the courage to step way outside of your comfort zone, throw caution to the wind and look at the boutiful blessings you have received because you had courage, faith, tenacity and an open heart!!!!!
Good for YOU!!! And, us too.
Thanks for sharing all the specialties of life, your life with us!
Raising my tea cup to you to toast in the next fabulous experiences! Imagine, the best is yet to come!! Yippeee and woo hoot!
XooX,
Jeanette
I believe you are right Jeanette!
We never know where the choices we make will lead us, and this is so evident in you and your move to Martha’s Vineyard. I think it took a lot of courage to move so far away from home and family & friends, but you obviously were guided by a Force bigger than all of us, and He obviously had a plan. It was just what you needed to get away and start your life over and look at all you’ve accomplished! You probably would have been an artist and writer no matter where you lived, but if you hadn’t moved there you wouldn’t have met Joe, maybe would have never went to England, so who knows? I think the little house you first lived in is adorable and I’m sure you have a lot of happy memories from there. So Happy 32nd Anniversary and best wishes for another 32 years and more on the Vineyard!
Susan,
Our morning twitter exchange regarding this topic was a wonderful way to start the day! 🙂 I am always so amazed by one’s story….and I love yours! How could you not fall in love with Holly Oak? She’s precious! Love that photo of your “once upon a time” when you landed here. Having been on that ferry to the Vineyard, I have a clear vision of what that must have looked like when you came….though everything you must have been feeling would certainly be difficult to entirely put into words.
But your journey to the island makes me think of the final scene in the movie “Yentel”! I am a huge Barbara Streisand fan and cannot watch this without being moved every time! youtube.com/watch?v=Rt_jjHAQoJU
So please do watch and listen…..was this not you?! 🙂 Here are the words to this song, “Piece of Sky”…….
Tell me where
Where is it written
What is it I am meant to be?
That I can’t dare…
It all began the day I found..
That from my window I could only see
A piece of sky.
I stepped outside and looked around.
I never dreamed it was so wide
Or even half as high.
The time had come
To try my wings
And even thought it seemed at any moment I could fall,
I felt the most,
Amazing things,
The things you can’t imagine
if you’ve never flown at all.
Though it’s safer to stay on the ground,
Sometimes where danger lies
There the sweetest of pleasures are found.
No matter where I go,
There’ll be memories that tug at my sleeve,
But there will also be
More to question, yet more to believe..
Oh tell me where?
Where is the someone who will turn and look at me?
And want to share
My ev’ry sweet-imagined possibility?
The more I live – the more I learn.
The more I learn – the more I realize
The less I know.
Each step I take –
Each page I turn –
Each mile I travel only means
The more I have to go.
What’s wrong with wanting more?
If you can fly – then soar!
With all there is – why settle for
just a piece of sky?
And soar you have! 🙂 Blessed we all are to be a part of that journey and partners in flight! xo
Gorgeous song and video! Thank you Tina. Love Barbra Streisand, and always have. Funny Girl set my soul on fire. “I’m the greatest star . . . but nobody knows it” . . . “Sadie Sadie Married Lady, see what’s on my hand. . . Oh, how that marriage license works, on chamber maids and hotel clerks, the honeymoon was such delight, that we got married that same night . . . ” Help somebody stop me! xoxo
I think I watched that movie at least 3 times, maybe 5, when it came out!
Love to all you have wandered..
Pat
I often wonder what made you choose Martha’s Vineyard rather than another location in Maine? Did you just close your eyes and point a finger at the map?
LOL – Just curious.
Might this be the first hint of another book??? Hope so.
What a great idea Sylvia!!!!
I agree — a great idea! But I’m still holding out for the Pancake book…..I love pancakes…. 🙂
As I approach my 65th “season” I have spent more time than in the past looking back on the adventures of my life, the decisions made (pros and cons) and the woulda/shoulda/coulda opportunities. I am so very happy where I am at in my life right now and KNOW that the turns, bends, hills and valleys that I traveled are what brought me to this graced and blessed moment. Daily I thank God for all the blessings in my life for they are SO many. I really enjoy your blog and especially your entry today. Linda
Happy Anniversary, Susan! I’m so glad you lived your dream then and continue to do so! And in the process, we’ve all been blessed! “Oh, give me a little home…”
So you bought your little house because of the cute stove. What were you thinking! . . .LOL Such a cute post and picture of you. You were meant to be on MV obviously because of meeting Joe, kitties, friends, art, books etc.
Isn’t is funny how things that we did when we were younger turned out well in the end. It’s wonderful!
Happy Anniversary, whether it’s February or March, we won’t worry about it because it gives us another reason to celebrate you and we can do this again on 5th next month.
Keep warm, we are having a beautiful day here, it’s one below zero (c), blue sky and glistening water, eagles, seagulls, cows and all the little tiny birds enjoying the bird feeder. Happy days!
Congratulations Susan! Is that little house still there for you
to go visit ? It looks so cozy!!!
I did go, last year.
Sweet, very sweet! Love this blog. You know whenever I have lost a dear kitty, I can’t go long without getting another kitty – I guess I’m just wired that way. Luckily my husband agrees w/me!
Such a sweet little house! I think a book about this would be most excellent!
luv. meo
I think it would be so much fun to write.
Ah, Susan! I was all set with a cuppa to hear the whole story, or at least more, so next blog, you MUST continue–please. I think I have heard it before, but you never get tired of hearing your favorites, do you? I don’t. Love the story of your early days.
Wait a year or so for the whole story. As soon as I get time to write it all down. I kept diaries, so it shouldn’t take me too long.
Me too Verla…
I’m ready for the whole story myself! What a book that would make.
xoxo,
Carol M
Of course you moved to Martha’s Vineyard. That’s where Joe was!!!! Here’s to many more happy anniversaries.
I do love the little house. Did it only have ONE room, or one room and a bedroom too? And a bathroom of course.
You went into the bedroom to get to the only bathroom — from the combination living room dining room. Plus a kitchen. It was perfect. All a girl needed. Mine all mine!
I love forget-me-nots. Do you still have a scrap of that wallpaper left?
I loved the story of your CA mail carrier. I sorted mail for my dorm in college, and I always like to see different handwriting. Some NOT so much. ie. right town, right street, NO number.
I have a picture of that heavenly wallpaper … but it’s actually not forget-me-nots — it’s really the same blue as forget-me-nots — which I now call “forget-me-not-blue” because of that room. It’s a discontinued Laura Ashley paper.
I really like Laura Ashley things. My garden center has LA wellies and gloves and tools. Last year I found a heart shaped picnic basket!
I just love your story of coming to the island. I know the feeling of being on a ferry and seeing that wonderful island come into view. Is there a reason you picked MV over Nantucket? I’m a Nantucket freak but love MV, too. We come every year on the last week in June. Just made this year’s reservations at our cottage. You get to celebrate this year for an entire month!
Congratulations Dear and Precious One! Your journey to Martha’s Vineyard and journey as an artist and writer from 1982 to 2014 has been such a blessing and joy to all of us who just love all you have given to us by so fully using the creative gifts God has given to you. We adore you and pray the best for you now and always! You have touched our hearts and enriched our lives in so many wonderful ways. You really care for others and it shows in all your posts on your blog and in your writings. Those fortunate enough to have met you in person and/or worked with and for you have been doubly blessed. Our hats are off to you! Thanks to you Joe for sharing Susan with us all……you hold on to her tight and love her forever…..she is a real treasure …. that has uplifted and encouraged us bringing many a smile to us, making us laugh at the antics of those around her and sometimes cry at the tenderness of a cherished memory. Here’s to another 32 years and beyond!!! 🙂
Oh Susan,
Love your little house.!…It looks like our first little 1980’s house in CT. I noticed the “moon boots” you were wearing, remember those? Isn’t that what they were called then?I had a pair too. .
So happy for you and your blog is so enjoyable…. it always brightens my days., I thank you for this.
Many Blessings
Vicki
I had a pair too. How did we ever walk in those?!
I still have and wear my ‘moon boots’! I love wearing them for snow shoveling and playing in the snow with my little 3 year old neighbor. Wearing them makes me feel so ‘young’! HaHa. Along with all the other girlfriends, I agree, it is a beautiful little cottage!
What a very brave thing to do! You certainly have seen a lot of seasons in those 32 years. Thanks for sharing, as always.
Happy Anniversary, Susan! How brave you were! Love that cute little house. Your move was in 1982, and sometime in the mid to late 80’s, on my lunch hour I walked into a Crabtree and Evelyn shop in NYC, saw The Heart of the Home, promptly purchased it, and fell in love!
The very first one!
When I saw “Anniversary”, I immediately thought “Susan and Joe”. Isn’t tomorrow your wedding anniversary or the day you met or some such milestone?
After reading the comments, I got it that your moving anniversary is being celebrated one month early.
You were a mere child when you set off on your own to the opposite side of the country. Kudos for bravery. When we follow our heart, we always find that the heart knows best, regardless of what the head might argue. And hooray for us that you made that move, because now all the Girlfriends can live vicariously on Martha’s Vineyard.
And I thought I was coming alone!
Oh yes! In my heart I live on Martha’s Vineyard….and in England with you and Joe and the kitties…and with the girlfriends! 🙂
We have our own virtual island right here! Probably see you at the grocery store later today, Diane!
You’ll never be alone again, because thousands of Girlfriends are following in your wake.
So very dear.The house.the name.. the story.
Congratulations on your ability to hold the course for 32 years! You are very blessed. 1982 must have been a year of change because I left P&G and started my market research business on July 5th of that year. Where does the time go? As Bob Seger sings, “20 years, where did they go? 20 years, I don’t know” and now it’s 30!!
Stay snuggled!
Diane Marie
How could you not want to stay with a beautiful little house like that? It was obviously meant to be and I’m glad it worked out so happily for you. 🙂 Happy Anniversary <3
You are just absolutely, positively, marvelously, the coziest, sweetest, greatest, artist, friend I know. Happy Anniversary ! I just love hearing from you on this glorious snowy day, we have 9 inches and counting up here in Northern MA. You make life for so many so enjoyable and this I am soooooo Thankful to God for ! Here’s to 32 more enjoyable years ! I just Love You ! So much to look forward to ! Yippee !
Happy Anniversary, Susan. I love your book, A Fine Romance. Your story is so sweet. I had a similar experience with my sweet husband. God always has a plan for us, no matter how dark things seem at the time. My husband was the answer to prayers 37 years ago and is still my sweetheart!
We are lucky girls Jean!
Even though your real anniversary is March 5th, you most likely were in the process of preparing for your big move!! So consider this your anniversary month! And what a huge step that must have been to just pick up and move. Did you know anything about the Vineyard or did you just randomly pick? What courage and as you said, it was certainly meant to be! The Vineyard has always been in my blood for many generations and I always think of it as home, regardless of where I am living! S I can see why it has become your home as well. And lucky for the rest of us for all the wonderful things you share with us and your Vineyard life!! PS. Thanks to the many posts I am now reading the first Outlanders series and absolutely love. So thank you to all!
Awwwwww……..I just love a happy ending no matter which month it is. 🙂
PS. Pardon my typos. . .it must be an iPad thing!
Oh yes, I completely agree with Sylvia! I bought Heart of The Home when it was in it’s third prining as a young mother in MN. I have purchased and loved all your books since as first editions. I like to look back at them even when I’m not cooking, which I don’t do so much anymore, just to see your watercolors and read the messages on your pages. I moved across the country too, but I left the 4 seasons for the desert, and not so young as you were. I would really be inspired to hear more of your story starting with the little house.
Happy Anniversary, Susan! I’m so glad your dreams came true. I’ve been a big fan of yours ever since I stumbled upon Vineyard Seasons when it was first published. It will always be my favorite cookbook and you will always be my favorite author.
You are so sweet to say that! This is exactly the reason I love my job!
I think my introduction to your wonderful books came when I found Christmas from the Heart of the Home at Waldenbooks, published some eight years after finding your first cozy home in the place of your dreams. On the back is a picture of you walking up through the silent snow under dark grey skies to your true dream home. I am so happy that I found this first book, which remains to this day one of my favorites (there is NO other recipe for pearl onions), and that later, I was one of the many blessed by how much of your life and home you have shared. I would be a far north New Englander in a heartbeat, but my one precious child is here, as are my parents. And my daughter, Hannah, is not a cold weather person. However, I have told her that if she ever moves further south to a place with winters milder than even ours, I will just have to visit! Wishing you, Joe, and your kitties many, many more years of happiness in your beloved home 🙂
I admire your courage, Susan. It did take courage to stay. It must warm your heart to know how many people have been blessed by all that you share with us. I think I first became aware of your art from a package of recipe cards I purchased at Strawberry Patches many years ago. And before that, Country Living magazine.
Thanks, again, for all you are doing and have done!
Nancy (from Bakersfield)
Susan: It took a lot of guts to leave family and home and all things familiar to strike out on your own and start anew. Of course, when you are younger it’s always so much easier to do these things. For you, all that happened was meant to be. As they say, “things happen for a reason”. Having been to Martha’s Vineyard and having spent several weeks each summer on the Cape growing up, I can understand why you chose to land where you did. As one who has lived with all the seasons all her life, I can say that I cannot imagine not having this experience year after year. It’s been snowing and sleeting all day near the Hudson River and school is once again closed. I just sat down to a dinner of homemade turkey meatloaf, mashed potatoes with lots of butter and sour cream mixed in, cranberry sauce and gravy. Yum. The perfect food for a snowy winter’s day. Thanks for inspiring us each day through your lovely words and pictures. We thank God for you!
Happy Anniversary! We are all so glad you listened to your Heart and found your Home!
oops. . .I meant eagles, seagulls and crows. . .not cows. . .I do not have any cows in my front yard! . . .holy cow. . .lol. . .lol. . .
Happy anniversary, Susan! I am so happy for your happiness because you bless so many with it.
Love,
Terry
Oh Susan Happy Anniversary, I just figured it took you a month to get there! Thought maybe you brought kitties with you! God did lay it on your heart to move there because He knew there was a Joe waiting for you! I am all teary eyed! I know it was scary! You have mentioned the little house before but I don’t remember you saying the name Holly Oak! What a precious little place! Is that the stove you have in your now forever kitchen? Is that the home you found the Gladys Taber book? See? You were meant to be there!
I can just imagine how homesick you must have been. My husband and I and two children aged 4&2 moved from Santa Ana So. Ca. to Asheville NC in Aug 1981 leaving all family and friends! And we’ve been here ever since! It is beautiful, and the boys had some great mountains to hike and camp in but I can’t say it was and easy thing to have done.
Hugs to you, Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack!
Thanks for all the sharing you do!
Wanted to send a friendly hello from just down the road in Hendersonville. I have noticed your posts and was curious to how close you live to me. Have loved Susan Branch for years….still wear my Susan Branch pajamas I got years ago at Sams! Anyway, enjoy your posts…evangeline
I love your stories! I too moved from TX to CO in April ’13 to be close to my son who has Down Syndrome. I went through a divorce in ’12. Mine has been one big LEAP, but oh how much fun to be with my son! So happy everything turned out alright in the end!
Everything happens for a reason. Your little house brought you to bigger and better things in life.
I know the pain you must have been in when you took that first step to a new life. I have also walked that path. We know the first door had to close completely before this new one could give you the happiness you were seeking… and just look at you now girl!!! Happy in every little corner of your being. Isn’t love grand … you became wonderful you. Happy Valentines from! Judy C
xoxo Judy!
Congratulations, dearest, on this wonderful milestone! What an adventure and how brave you were to make that long trek across the country alone to an unknown place! That little home of yours is perfect….I can just imagine how you whipped it into something darling in no time and roots began to grow on your feet! Love your story. Love you for sharing it with us! xo
Happy Anniversary Susan! I’m so glad you found Martha’s
Vineyard so you could share your life and talent with the rest of us! You inspire the rest of us to dare and dream!
Oops, wishing you Happy Anniversary a month early! Oh well, the wishes are the same now as they will be then.
I lift my cuppa in a toast to your health and happiness! Here’s to many, many more years and many, many, more chapters!
Honestly I had just set down with a cup ‘o tea and there was the update in my in-box. Oh joy! Xoxo.
Wow, congratulations! Bet it doesn’t feel like 32 years ago. Here’s a wonderful quote by Stacey Charter, “Life is all about timing… the unreachable becomes reachable, the unavailable become available, the unattainable… attainable. Have the patience, wait it out it’s all about timing.” Your patience and timing has been impeccable Susan! And your journey continues… ♥
Happy Anniversary! Susan! Thank you for sharing a part of your life. I just LOVE your blog and look forward to reading it everyday to see what’s new. May you have many blessings and much happiness always. Hugs from Barbara Stillman
Oh Barbara! Thank you so much — nice to hear from you!
Happy Anniversary, Susan. Aren’t you glad you made that move. Now you have a beautiful house, a handsome, wonderful husband and two of the most adorable kitties. Life is Good!
Lucky!
Surely there is more to this story. I was disappointed that it was so short. I want to hear more of your story and that cute little house. Happy Anniversary!!
It’s a long story . . . I think I’ll tell it in a book, with pictures. I kept diaries of the whole thing.
Yes, please do!!!
Love, Mary S.
A book would be lovely.
Thanks for sharing. Have often wondered how you came to live there….. So enjoy your blog. Happy Anniversary!
Happy, Happy Anniversary, to you, Susan! Have you told the story of how you and Joe met?? If not, I’m sure I’m not the only one who would LOVE to know!
Hugs….
If you ever have a chance to see my newest book, A FINE ROMANCE, the way Joe and I met takes up the first 35 pages — it’s part love story, part travel journal — or maybe all love story!
You were such a brave little soldier. So scary. Isn’t it nice to look back on life and see where you were always taken care of. Guess we wouldn’t waste our time fretting so much. You’d think I would learn that lesson!! 🙂
Congratulations, Susan. You look so sure of yourself in that picture. I admire your bravery. And that move sent the whole ball rolling. You know, I have begun to hate winters as I get older, but I have to confess something that I have become aware of as of late. When I read your blogs and open my mind to see winter as you do, I am beginning to appreciate winter’s beauty and bounty. My gloomy thoughts are changing and although it is certainly a process, I see winter in a much happier way now. Yes, things have fallen into place for you, and apparently for me too, through your insights. Thank you!
There’s a quote I love about winter “Thank goodness the sun has gone in and I don’t have to go out and enjoy it!” And not to be too motherly, and more like a girlfriend, be sure you are taking Vitamin D, that’s a big secret for a happy winter. xoxo
I do take Vitamin D and go on walks at the mall. Can’t wait to start my walks outside! Taking care of ourselves makes us happy too!
We live in a country sub-division on the edge of an old growth forest, right along the river. It is truly a winter wonderland around here this year. There are no words to describe the beauty. My sister-in-law dropped in for a visit this afternoon. She commented on how beautiful it was and how it just must do something for the soul to look out and see this extraordinary beauty everday. It just simply anchors the soul. I’m not sure I could make it through the heat of summer without the peace the winter brings…there’s a rhythm. Thank you Susan for making us more aware of that precious rhythm. Happy Anniversary…32 years of blessings for us, 32 years of total bliss for you. You’ve blessed us beyond all measure, changed our hearts, our lives, and the world. How do we thank you? I know…our hearts are all smiling, and that makes you happy. Here’s to another 32 and the best is yet to come. xo
Thank you Rhonda ♥
What a darling cottage. Happy Anniversary Susan.
Happy Anniversary, Susan! We are the fortunate ones to have been blessed by your yearning to come to New England! Martha’s Vineyard is truly a very special place and any of our girlfriends that haven’t visited must try to! It is enchanting! I agree with so many of the other comments = thank God you came here! 🙂 oxoxox
Happy anniversary Susan!! it may have been an accident, but what a happy accident for us all. best wishes on your Happy Anniversary. hugs…. 🙂
Thank you Pat!
Susan, congratulations on your 32nd anniversary of moving to MV. Plans have a way of changing don’t they? I truely think that God is 100% in charge and it’s His plan for us that is the best. You have had a fantastic life on the Island. Just think of all that you have accomplished and also the wonderful man in your life. You’ve truely been blessed!!
xoxo,
Carol M
Loved reading this. A sweet reflection of an important milestone/anniversary. Thanks for sharing, Sweet Sue! ♥♥♥
What a lovely story! So romantic and inspiring.
Happy Anniversary! Sweet post.