There are two screens open on my computer right now, this one I’m writing to you on, and just under it, Word, with seventy-one pages of my new book, a very rough draft, written. Voila! If you had x-ray vision you could read it. You KNOW I love to write my blog, but right now I’m addicted, addicted I tell you, to the writing of this book. I love going back in time to search for magic. Actually there are three screens open, there’s THIS.
On my art table, oh what an assortment, two of my old diaries are face down and open because I’m reminding myself of inspirations from my youth and my days and thoughts from long ago. I just found a list I made called “The Secrets of Life.” I’ve made so many lists with names like “What I Want” or “How to be Happy” and they almost all say the same things.
Between the scribbled pages there are ticket stubs, valentines, polaroid pictures, things cut out from newspapers, notes friends left on my door when I wasn’t home, shopping lists, old 
letters from my grandma (Every one of them starts “Sue Darling” causing eyes to water and lower lip to protrude) and my mom, and from Diana when I first moved to the island. The recipe for my mom’s Circus Cake (it’s going into book) is peeking out from under them. One of my Junior Classics Stories of Wonder and Magic is open to a fairytale I found while looking for the scary Hobia story my dad used to terrify us with. It’s called the Brownie and the Cook and it’s written by Dinah Maria Mulock Craik and I think I need to read it. I just found the part in my diary where I came to the island for the first time. I’m on the boat, it’s cold outside, the ferry is rocking, I’m drinking hot chocolate and thinking everyone on the boat looks like a Kennedy. I can see the island coming towards us through ocean-splashed windows. Who would’a thunk it all these years ago that these diaries would come in so handy one day? For organization and storytelling. They are like my own little memory catalogs. I can see the snow falling out my window from my bed in 1984, get my first kitty in 1976, burn up my first stove in 1974. It’s all there! Plenty of cringing going on too. Ah youth. I will try to spare you the gory details. Here’s a pretty piece of MUSICA so you don’t have to think about it.
In reality, I’m home here on the island and firmly attached to the 21st century; one of my grandma’s knitted nap blankets is over my lap and legs, the light on my desk shines out to the street making a square of yellow on 
the ground, I have a big cup of lavender and roses tea with honey and cream. Girl Kitty is on her pillow on my art table and Jack is in the kitchen staring at the floor next to the door. I don’t know why. Apparently something is there, but I can’t see it. He’s been at this spot off and on for several days now. All’s quiet on the eastern front. Heater is humming, damp towels are moistening the air, it’s still dark outside, and fingers are clicking away. Blessings • blessings • blessings. ♥
I’m waking up these mornings with words jumping out of my head. I can’t get downstairs quite fast enough to get my thoughts down. This book seems to be writing itself. I carry paper and pencil everywhere with me. They’re in the pockets 
of my jacket when we walk out the dirt road in the morning, and on the table next to the bed so if I wake up with a memory or an astute and brilliant thought (like that happens), I can get it down before it disappears in a dream puff or gets crowded out by the next one coming to the top. Diana’s voice rises up distinct and clear in my head, “Why don’t you go ask him to dance?” I burst into laughter, and run for paper and pen. This book is flowing out of me like a river after a big snow. Joe is my editor, he reads my pages as we go along, fixes sentences, gives me suggestions. He’s scanning old photos and getting them ready to put in the book and working hard not to get his tea bag caught on his glasses.
Only one other thing takes my attention almost as much and that’s another book ~ the one I’m reading written by Donna Tartt called Goldfinch. I take it upstairs to my exercise bike and as I ride and read my thoughts turn completely away from the book I’m writing and go into an entirely NEW and all encompassing world. I’m somewhere around page 150, and it sits up there waiting for me like a little jewel. I’ve been loving the characters and the way the story is going, but suddenly there’s this new character and I don’t like him and I want to scream to the boy, and to all the people supposedly taking care of him, “Don’t go with this guy!!!!!!!” But I have no power and it looks like we are moving to Las Vegas.
The weather is definitely changing although I’m kind of impervious to it right now. I notice when we go for our walk there’s definitely more light. The sun was breaking over our faces out there yesterday, I had to take off my hat. Also, how about that, daylight saving time? AGAIN. It’s giving me a slight case of jet lag. (I just looked at the clock in here and thought, “Oh, that’s wrong, it’s almost 6:00 ~ need to fix that.) Another season is slipping into the past. Have any of you started Christmas shopping yet? I almost feel like I should begin thinking about it! I’m going to wake up and it’ll be here! Fa-la-la-la-la! Help!
I’m trying hard to be healthy which is much more difficult when my mind is elsewhere as it is these days. I eat apples in the morning, I’m addicted to apples for some reason now, and I have cut-up carrots and celery in the fridge for those moments when I crave SOMETHING and must grab it NOW. I keep a HUGE bowl 
of my favorite crunchy juicy coleslaw in my fridge at all times, with sliced almonds, golden raisins, chopped apple, thinly sliced cabbage, shredded carrot and dressed with mayonnaise thinned with fresh lime juice. I eat on that practically all day. I’ll have a baked sweet potato for dinner, or maybe a piece of fresh fish and some broccoli, and there we are. Not counting the M and M’s in my desk drawer. Am I losing weight? No. That is not a thing that happens. But I feel good. It’s the only way to get through book writing and still be alive at the end of it. Exercise and eating right. Not quite as easy as it sounds, is it girls? However . . . we keep on keepin’ on, because . . .
N o w e a r e n o t.
Hope all is well with you guys. OH! I just lifted my eyes, guess what? It’s snowing! Pretty• pretty• pretty. Never a dull moment around here. Well, must go now. One guess where I’m going? Yup, just the other side of this screen. Thanks for stopping by, have a wonderful day! XOXO, your friend, Anna Susana Branchburger the Third. Yes, that is me in alternate ego and in full girlfriend mode. ♥
Good morning, you just started my day is such a lovely way! Snowing here in Stoughton too. Just a bit, not like the blizzard day almost a month ago ( time has flown by!) when you were here! What a weekend that was! I love peeking at your day, the writing, the painting, cooking, MV’s life. You always brighten my day!! Stay warm, hope that the lovely weather we had over the weekend returns soon…. xxx
Hi Anna,
So excited for me and you about your new book. You really are gifted with the writing thing, it is a gift you know? Glad to here that the Goldfinch is a good read. Its my next book to read here on the table. Keep writing and I will keep waiting.
Nancy Jo
It’s a gift like others, I didn’t realize I had until relatively recently. So funny how we don’t see those things in ourselves, only in others.
So happy for you and your creative mode! Happy for all the Girlfriends who will have a new book to look forward to as well. 🙂
Yay! So looking forward to a new book by Suzy B!
Already looking forward with excitement to your new book and thank you Susan for taking time out to send us another entertaining and inspiring blog post, each one is like a jewel in my week and I treasure them all.
with love xx
Ann in Thame
Susan,
Wonderful! Exciting! So enjoyed your post and hearing about the starting of your new book. Do like to read all the little details as that is what makes it real. You write so we can relate, and you are so good at it! Yummy looking slaw!
Darling circus cake! Joe and the tea bag tooo funny. 40ish here today and melting. Have a great day!
Jan
Good Morning! Guess it is still morning where you are ??? The clock here says 6:20am although I’m realizing it is really 7:20am which means it is 10:20am in good ole Massachusetts. Glad to hear that you are enjoying the adventure of writing a new book. Sounds fun …so Ms. Anna Susana Branchburger aka Susan Anne Stewart Branch…full speed ahead with the book writing!!! Have a grand day…inside writing while the “white stuff” is doing its thing outside.
Good day girlfriend! You are like a muse to me. So inspired to live my best life! I bought the Betty Crocker kitchen garden book. So charming with Tasha Tudor art and so informative in a very practical way! I have also watched seasons 1, 2 and now working on season 3 of Downtown! In love and agony over Mr. Bates being in prison! Poor Anna! TTFN!
LOL, I know! Mr Bates! So happy you are enjoying it!
Oh, Susan! I just love that you were/are such a journal keeper. I so regret that I started so many and never kept it up. I did keep all those very small starts and enjoy reading them but wish, wish, wish I had such a wonderful record of youth as you have!
That slaw salad you mentioned sounds yummy! I had an amazing salad at a new place yesterday and it had beautiful apple slivers. It had me going to the store to have some on hand for my little lunch of apples and cheese and crunchy nuts. It will be suddenly warm today so I’m thinking lunch outdoors! The first teasing days of warmth always had my mom taking us for a chilly picnic. I loved that about her!
Write on! 🙂
I’ve never met a picnic I didn’t love!
Oh, my! I just made that slaw recipe for lunch! It satisfies my need for lots of crunch and a touch of sweet without all the carbs that I can’t have of a Waldorf Salad! I’ve found my new go to lunch for spring and summer. Thanks! 🙂
It’s heaven, I’m so addicted!
Good morning Ms. Branchburger, how did you come up with your name? Reminds me of a time I called into a radio station contest and won. The question was “who was the villain in the movie Santa Claus Is Coming To Town?” I don’t know how I immediately knew the answer but won with the Burgermeister Meisterburger. Any relation to this Burger? :);
I think I’m more related to Roseanna Roseanna Dana! Sort of!
Wow! You go, girl!
Happy Monday 🙂
xoDebbie
That’s what I was doing last year this time….going through diaries, letters, old photo albums…..and memories…. as I wrote my childhood memoir. You get lost in a time warp…..hard to come out at times, but well worth it. I look forward to reading yours since I love DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS about any and everything/one I’m interested in!
I love the idea of a new book. Do you have a title yet? Don’t you just love it when creativity hums through you and you hardly know when times go by?
I have three titles! I’m waiting til I’m further in to choose one, because I think the right one will reveal itself once the stories are bound together more than they are right now.
I so loved every word of your posting this morning. You can feel the creativity humming in the background. I laughed out loud at the Christmas remark. Soon and very soon here in Northern Indiana, we will be able to run outside throw our arms back and take a big breath of fresh, spring air. I can hardly wait!
Miss Anna Susana Branchburger the Third – so cute. We all should have an alter ego. Love the peek inside your new book. Boy, we may have your new book in time for Christmas. And yes, I have two Christmas gifts already – both are vintage and we all know you have to buy these when you see them. Happy writing, Susan and happy editing, Joe. What a team!
You are just the best-est dear anna susana branchburger!
I’m in the midst of writing my first book and totally understand the “addicted” feeling. Can’t wait for those tiny moments in the day when I can steal away a few moments to add to the story. I dream of loading my backpack up and driving out to the little cottage on the ocean that we use several times a year to lock myself away to finish up the last pages. A dream but one that keeps me writing! Thank you for sharing the comfort of your home and your life!
I wish now that I had kept diaries. I remember a few stories but not all I’d like to. Seeing yours all lined up with their pretty covers makes me wish I had made that effort. When we go on BIG trips I do keep a journal of our travels, now I think I’ll dig those up and reread them. The quote by Fran Lebowitz made me laugh, how true! Thanks for the inspiring start to my Monday!
Yes there’s good and bad when you keep diaries. Truth is sometimes a little worse than imagination!
mmmmm. what a wonderful way to start my Monday!!!! as I usually say…thank you, oh! thank you….for being you, Susan. I LOVE the quote by Horace Mann. sadly, I do tend to let hours just GO with nothing to show for them….a lot. oh, dear. do have a great day, everyone!! take care & be well & keeeep warm.
It’s that one hour we lost. Grrrr. 🙂
Good morning Susan!
Another book – wow! wow! wow!
I can’t even tell you how often I think of your “happy gene” and wish I could have been fortunate enough to have one too. Thank you for sharing yours with us! We are having a few flurries ourselves this morning (I wasn’t as excited about it as you.) My mind is drifting towards warmer weather and spring flowers. Our new yard (we moved a year or so ago) doesn’t seem to have any early flowering bushes or crocuses or snowdrops, or anything that blooms before June. Last year I was just watching to see what came up, this year I will have to put a few things in. Thought about you SO MUCH this weekend because my mom and I have scheduled our trip to MV at the end of May! Hope there will be plenty of blooming things then! I am sure the water will still be freezing but am looking forward to walking the beach. Would you mind terribly if we walk by your house and take a picture? I really don’t want to disturb you, so if you hate that sort of thing, please just say so and we will respect your wishes. Is there a store on the island that carries some of your items? ❤
Sometimes the bookstore has a few things. We never know which is why we have our web store, because we can never tell anyone where they can get something! The way my house is situated, I would probably never know you were there. People take photos of it all the time, just because it’s a New England house I think. So that would be fine. (I hope it’s green and pretty for you!)
I love everything about this post. The snow falling. The words tumbling out of you and onto the page (aka computer screen) with an urgency that’s palpable. The row of journals on your shelf that resembles mine. I almost feel as though the rushing words and emotions of this post has released something stuck in me; my own well of creativity is beginning to burst upwards, if only I can get past the inertia of fear. I’ll be back to read this post again and again. Happy writing days to you.
That fear, she is a devil. Must step over. Write yourself a note. Use all CAPS. Demand to yourself that you just say no to fear. I say that, but I know just what you mean. I have to do that all the time myself. It’s normal.
Thank you for sharing your life with us. You are truly an inspiration to all. I am reading “Conversations with Amber” by Gladys Taber at the moment and it is a joy. Our son’s fur baby, Avery, has entertained us the last four days. I’m not truly a cat person, but she is fun to observe and is very independent, to say the least. I do enjoy her when she is under our bed and I am trying to make it up. It’s like hide and seek. Your salad looks wonderful and healthy. Think I will try that soon. Even Texas has been chilly since November. Unusual for us, but this week promises temps in the 70’s. Since I am on spring break I plan to enjoy all the sun I can. Happy Monday to you, Joe and the kitties!
I wasn’t a cat person either, I thought. I got one because there were so many gophers in my yard I was out-numbered. Then I fell in love.
Oh, I wish I had written down my life in diaries and journals as you have chronicled your life. I know that it is a blessing to you now as you are writing your latest book to go back and have everything written and memoriablia to bring back events just a fresh as the day that it/they happened. I am so happy that this book is “writing itself” for you. I too Keep lists of things; things I want, things that will make my life happier, etc., they are just all lose pieces of paper in a box somewhere, but I think I will have to coordinate all of that into something of sense so that later I too might write down, if only for my only child, my life. Blessings to you Susan and Joe, for you are surely blessings to all of us. -Donna H.
I have a book in my web store. It’s a guided journal I wrote called “Mom, Tell me your Story” (There’s one for Grandma too). I put in lots of questions to get people thinking, there’s plenty of space for your answers, and I left spots for a few photos. If you want a little help jogging your memory, it’s a good place to start. You could tuck in some of those loose papers in your box or tape them onto the pages. It would be a treasure for your child, a very good Christmas present!
Thank you Susan. I think that I will purchase one of your guided journals and use it to organize all of those scraps of paper, pictures, note cards, etc. This is going to be fun!
You’re going to make someone very happy by doing it!
You make me smile. So glad you are having so much fun writing your book. That slaw sounds yummy, going to have to make me some.
So happy to be going along on this journey with Anna Susana Branchburger, III, and learning what goes into writing a book!! So many memories … but rather than being overwhelmed by them you are able to relive in them and organize them … to our benefit and glee!! I’m sure your mother of 8 had something to do with these amazing traits of yours … just like Shirley Temple’s 🙂 Thanks for being the consummate teacher, girlfriend and ambassador to the world. All you need is love … da da da da da ♥
She gave me my first diary when I was around 8. It had a lock on it. “Oh the secrets,” that was my first thought!
I just loved these visits with you Susan. It feels like I just sat down, with the kettle whistling away on the stove and we’re rocking in the chairs by the stove and peeling apples and you are telling me all your tales. Just wonderful. Reading you is . . . “cosy.” That’s the only way to describe it.
I wish I could show you my garden at the moment, with the rubarb unfurling it’s deep green leaves on those ruby red stalks and the daffodils and snow drops blooming and guess what! Today (the sun is shining yay!) my Todd came running in from the garden all excited and wanting me to go out and see our pond. We have about 5 gold fish in it (getting bigger) and there were at least 20 frogs in it “getting jiggy” with each other and enjoying the sunshine! You should see all the frog spawn. We knew we had a few frogs because we saw babies last year and there has been a resident one as big as your fist for a few years, but we were gobsmacked to see them all! It was crazy, and exciting and mind boggling!
I can’t wait until a warm evening so hear if they serenade us with their peeping. Oh joy. Oh joy.
Looking so forward to this new book! Can’t wait! Can’t wait! And with that I bid you adieu for today. Tip toeing out so as not to disturb whatever it is Jack is looking at . . .
VERY exciting Marie! You are going to be sung to . . . we have little tree frogs on the island that they call pinkletinks, a hallmark of spring.
Creativity on full display. I love it, and love knowing you will send another wonderful book out into the world and into our hearts and homes, to entertain and inspire. With AFR I feel you really hit your stride as an author (not that I haven’t loved your prior books, because I have), and now are going full speed ahead! Fabulous, Girlfriend!!!
Honestly, you get braver as you get older. In the beginning I never imagined that I would be “allowed” to write in my cookbooks. No one ever told me not to, so in each one, you can see, there is a little more. I kept waiting for my publisher to say, “please, don’t write so much!” But they never did. Now it’s what I want to do all the time!
We are the same age, and I agree that as long as we stay open we do get braver, in all aspects of life. Although, you were certainly brave to move across the country when young, and my girlfriend and I traveled to Europe with very little money and few reservations – just the $5 a day book in tow. I guess that really wasn’t bravery but just leaping before we looked and expecting the best.;) It was grand, though. BTW, my little 6-year-old granddaughter has asked for a diary with a key so she can write down her secrets. Oh boy!
Watch that diary, I lost mine, so make sure you grab hold of hers before something happens to it.
Susan,
I am in love with that picture of all your old diaries!! Where do you get your diaries?! Those floral covers are delightful! :]
I buy them wherever I see them, mostly in bookstores. Years ago and for a long time they had a whole line of diaries with linen, corduroy or cotton floral covers…so that’s where lots of them came from.
Oh my goodness!! I’m not sure I’ve ever heard/read you sooooo chipper!! You sound so happy, organized and motivated! Perhaps your California girls can figure out how to bottle whatever you’ve got so we can all have some! Just kidding, I think that is what your blog is ~ happiness overflow! Excited for you about the book, anxious to see more.
Hi Susan. Could you give us the recipe for your cottage cheese pancakes please? I would like to make them. I recently purchased your Heart of the Home book on e-bay, so I was so excited when I saw that the recipe was in that book. When I got the book out to make the recipe I discovered the page had been torn out. I was so disappointed! (Actually 7 pages were missing.) But at least the seller refunded my money. Have a great day. Anne
Oh, how terrible! I’m thinking since I’ll be talking about how I went about writing Heart of the Home in my new book, maybe I should reprint it at the same time. Keep looking for the book and I’ll put that recipe up soon.
I think a reprint of the book would be absolutely fabulous! I can’t tell you how very disappointed I was. It’s such a beautiful book. To have pages torn out just tore at my heart. I was nearly in tears. My books are so precious to me I just can’t imagine doing that. Oh, well. I’m chosing to think that whoever did it framed the pages. That is making me feel somewhat better. I look forward to the pancake recipe. Thanks so much Susan! Also can’t wait for the new book to come out. Have a great day. Happy writing. Anne
Thank you Anne (with an e, me too, it’s my middle name) xoxo
I’m so glad you kept diaries and equally glad that I did not!
I just finished the audio version of The Goldfinch. Great characters and so many hours of listening that I finished a hooked rug before the end.
That’s what I love. Killing two birds with one stone. So creative!
Cannot wait for the new book!!
Oh Anna Susana Branchburger!!! I am so excited about this book and love the fact that is just flowing out of you non-stop! It will be fabulous! Goodnight My Love is the sweetest song ever….watched dear Shirley Temple sing it last night in Stowaway. Have a fun day!! xo
Looks like there were lots of us watching Shirley at the same time!
I just loved and needed your words today! I feel lately that I’m trying to remember the girl I was long ago and all those things I loved. You’ve inspired me to start looking through my old photos and notes again. Have a beautiful day!
Remember the brave 10-year-old you were, that’s the girl we need to never forget.
I can’t wait for your new book! I had a love hate relationship with the “Goldfinch”. Let us know what you thought about the book when you’re finished. I am planning a trip to England in June, we have 10 days. What would be your must do’s for that length of time? I just bought your book so if your recommendations are in there I will find them. Happy Monday! Kim
If you’re going to stay in London, I would look at the first part of A Fine Romance (there are lists of wonderful houses and castles for each part of the country we visited) and take some trips south. It’s not long to anywhere. Hever Castle is thirty miles from London, I’m imagining there’s even a bus. Otherwise, if you’re going to be in the country, choose your spot, and then gravitate out to all the lovely places around it. There will be more than you will have time to see and ALL of them will be wonderful.
Your book is writing itself.♡ Isn’t that the *best* way?
.
How lucky you are, to have made all those Journals, of your life.♡ So lucky now, for this project. And just plain lucky-period… For having a tangible record of so many, many things.♡
.
Gentle hugs♡
Tessa~
It’s the wonderful part of getting older, you’ve gathered your best and most meaningful things around you and you’ve become distilled to a nice thick syrup of self.
Now that’s a dandy line, “…and you’ve become distilled to a nice thick syrup of self.”
Yes, I really like that description, too. Perfect description of aging… 🙂
Wow!
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I had the first comment!
.
Wow!
.
-grin-
Tessa~♡
You’re so cute Susan! I love each of your posts. Thank you for taking the time to share with us and take us along on the book writing journey. Your excitement is contagious and I needed that on this Monday! Girl looks adoringly at you and Jack looks like ‘what?’ LOL. Have a great day Girlfriend 🙂
Yeah, he’s busy. 🙂
You are very inspiring this morning! I love that feeling when you are involved in a project and can’t wait to get out of bed and get back to it. I’m looking forward to the book so happy you are writing with ease. And Girl Kitty’s face–just adorable. (Jack, too.)
I kept a diary for a time (I have several just like the one 3rd from the left).
I find that my lists for a happy life really haven’t changed much either.
I do find some of my diary entries to be cringe-worthy now, and so, I don’t keep a diary anymore…
I’m wondering if you have the recipe for the delicious coleslaw in one of your
books — it sounds really good!
Looking forward to another wonderful book from you!
JoAnne
Read back through the comments here because I wrote the recipe for another one of our Girlfriends ~ it’s not in any of the books yet, I just made it up relatively recently.
Susan,
Sorry to be such a bother, but I just cannot find your Apple/carrot, raisin slaw anywhere. Help!!
Sherrill
Found it!!!!
Susan, I made your SLAW last night for my dinner. Who knew it would be that good? I guess “you” did. LOVE IT!!!!! I know I’ll be eating it lots from now on. Such a simple, healthy idea. Thanks, (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
You are so welcome, glad you like it, yes, couldn’t get much healthier. Filling too!
Susan, here is the post you did about your coleslaw in 2012: 162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch//2012/09/kitchen-update-and-fall-cleaning-and-delicious-coleslaw-recipe/
Good morning and happy writing! Let’s not Christmas shop just yet but I so agree about the jet lag feeling….March 10th…how can that be?!!
Do you really listen to Superman as you work? That makes me happy! I listen to Leave it to Beaver while I work….. whole seris is on netflix! I just cannot have it totally quiet You are my inspiration! Keep on keeping on. I am so excited for your new book! I just hung my spring banner, filled my vintage lamb planter with tulips and phlox from Toms garden ( the guy you met with me in SLO who wears a beret like Joe even in the heat) and it just makes me so happy!!wish I could send a picture ! Spring is springing in Calif !
I get little bits of things sometimes on Youtube, and lots of old movies, but really, unless I’m painting, there’s pretty much no noise except the click of the computer keys. Say hi to Tom for me!
well good morning Susan, good morning girlfriends. I don’t know about any of you but I have come to really hate daylight savings time. I lose an hour of sleep (and I think its more than that) and it messes up my timing in letting the chickens, ducks and turkeys out in their yard for the day. oh well, I will adjust, grumble but adjust. the day is damp and partly cloudy, with some showers hanging about. but the flowers are popping up and I know now that spring is not too far away, the tractor parade and the lawnmower brigade have begun their trips to local gas station up at the corner and its time to get my porch planters planted and my rocking chairs out on the porches. I have a back porch, front porch and kitchen porch. soon I will get my clothesline back up and enjoy that. had some fun on the weekend, the turkeys have decided to start their turkey parades, and this time the ducks joined them so our local firefighters helped to herd them home, nothing like flashing lights and big trucks to block off traffic to escort some wayward turkeys and ducks back home… summer here we come!! LOL!!! the cats got a big surprise on sunday morning, they love to sit on the counter by the kitchen door and watch the birds on the feeders, well deer ( doe) got nosy and decided to peek into the kitchen, 3 black cats ran for cover with big bristled tails…LOL!!! also found me a collection of Shirley Temple DVDs for a bargain at Wal-Mart, I got the last one at our store, and noticed on y way out at the cashier a trash magazine, The Globe, Trashing her on the front page. how dare they do that!!! well I am writing to them about that, in other words a nastygram from me to them. time to start a protest to them, she was a lovely person and never said or did anything to harm anyone, she was a gracious lady. why would someone trash her like that after she is gone??? that trashy magazine is not fit to line the bottom of a birdcage with let alone read. well hopefully some people will let them know what they think of that, I know I am soon as I can. off to go feed the barnyard crowd, and get them some fresh water in the tubs and in the duck pool. our peeps are getting their feathers now, they have their wings already feathered, they are sooooo cute to watch and yes I have to go feed them and get them fresh water. its peep season around here. have a great day today everyone. hugs….. 🙂
In my whole life, I can honestly say I have never touched a Globe or any of those magazines. Stupid and lies. They can say anything, like someone is born in outer space or has a baby with a bear, or whatever. I don’t know how they survive.
neither do I, like grandma used to say those rags are not fit to line the garbage pail with or the bottom of the bird cage!!!
Not fit for birds! They don’t deserve that anymore than we do.
true, very true!!!
I loved stopping by this morning…thanks for being our friend! Your world seems cozy and full.
This is an exciting post! Hearing all about a new book in the works. I am savoring “A Fine Romance”…..as well as “gorging” myself on all of your past blog posts. It has been weeks now and I feel little creative juices blubbling and trying to rise to the surface! There is such a joyful and thankful attitude that comes through all that you right. A grateful heart makes this life a beautiful thing.
Even in my worst of times, I know how lucky lucky I am to be born in this country, have running water and heat, and love in my life. Not to mention all the kajillion other things, kitties, seasons . . . on and on. xoxo
Jennifer from CFC???
Hello Sweet Sue! Goosebumps From The Moment I Began Reading This Blog! 🙂 I Saw You on Twitter! Then Flew Here! Love Today’s Musica! ♪ ♬♬♫♫ 🙂 Yesterday on TCM They Showed Lots Of Shirley Temple Movies & I Thought Of You As I Watched Them….. 🙂 When You Said You Wake with The Words Jumping Out Of Your Head 🙂 It Reminded Me of That Movie With Diane Keaton & Jack Nicholson “Something’s Gotta Give” Where After Their Romantic Night All Her Emotions Open Up & The Words Keep Flowing Out Of Her…& She Can’t STOP Writing! 😉 This is All Very Exciting Sweet Sue! Just Breathe!….Spring Has Sprung Here! 50’s at Night 70’s in The Day! Yay! & You Have More Snow! Amazing! Enjoy! Kitty~Kisses to All! Happy Writing! xoxo Poof! ♪ ♬♬♫♫ 🙂
My favorite scene in that movie is when she’s sitting at her desk, working on her book, she writes something she likes and she makes that little scream? Loved that! Thank you Angie!
Susan, I have often thought about what happens in people’s heads, if they are photographers , do they see a photo-op when they look at things…and writers, do they have sentences that run all over other sentences in their heads. ?? 🙂 It’s good you write it down before it can slip away. Cute cat pictures. Blessings to all of you, xoxo,susie
Hooray, we’re back and I’m reading your blog once again. 🙂 We had ten lovely days in Cumbria but having so many pub lunches and coffee breaks (with cakes) your healthy eating is very apt. The diet starts today!! I had to laugh at Joe and his tea bag incident, and so enjoying all the excitement about your new book(s).
Oh Susan, please tell us approximately when this book will be ready for us to buy!!! It sounds like everything we love about you.
I can’t tell you yet, but I will when I can. It seems to be going fast but then that’s only typing. Hand writing it will slow things down, but it will be pretty when we get there! I also like what hand writing does to the words. They change. Heart connected to hand is different than typing.
…bravo !!.. I agree whole heartedly.. sooo happy to hear that this book will be handwritten, as your other ones are..”heart connected to hand”…’love that !!..
So true! …and so much more personal! We feel your heart in everything you do!
Please take your time and enjoy each moment of each memory while you’re writing Susan. I agree with your beautiful description of how something done with your own handwriting changes the words. Love is a part of those written words and that definitely puts the heart into them. Remember no rush; we can wait for the next masterpiece. ♥
snowing again? wow, we have sunny weather here(western n.c.) today with spring flowers all around still a chill and I think the winter cold is not very far away but for today its like an early spring day ,smells so good (laundry on the line please). We can make the best of both so peaceful the snow and so busy the coming spring (those birds are loud).I love your blog, love you, love life, yep that feeling of spring when thoughts turn to… well you know. Have a great week sun or snow!!!!
Forget the coleslaw’s delectability….It’s your WRITING that is delicious! ….Thank you for sharing!!! :^)
Oh Sherry! Thank you ! xo
Susan, I’m so glad you’ve started another one of “our books”. This one comes from your heart which is the very best kind. I hope you take time out for the little things, taking your walks, playing with Jack and Girl Kitty, getting together with friends, reading your books so that you can stay healthy and somewhat sane during your writing process. Week-end weather was absolutely wonderful and my grandson and I wander outside for some sun and fun. Take Care.
Susan, WOW your energy is coming right thru the screen. Love it. Yes the time change is here and I love it for it gives me hours at night to be out in the garden. But out here in California I think we are going to go right into Summer…Oh yes, we have had some awesome weather HOT HOT HOT…I take what ever is dealt….for there is really nothing you can do about it…but enjoy what ever it is. And yes I have some Christmas shopping done. They all laugh at me…but when you can get a great buy on something that you know your girlfriend (Patsy) really loves ….how can you not buy it? I’ve had it since Jan. I am teasing her with little clues…every month……I can not tell you or any of the other girlfriends what it is because. Patsy reads your blog also. hahaha.
Your new book sounds like the dream is coming true and that you truly are enjoying writing it. Which is the most important thing about writing anything…you can tell when the Author is having a great journey writing her story. I am so looking forward to thrill of reading it. It will not replace the book sitting next to my bed….A Fine Romance…I think I have read it at least 10 times and keep going back to my favorite parts… re- reading and dreaming of Beatrix Potter and the lovely English Country Side…AAHHHH
Thanks for an energizing blog. Love, Susan P.
Hope (Patsy) sees this! Cute Susan! I like living inside a Fine Romance too, it’s very beautiful in the English countryside!
Oh, I just have to say….I LOVE living inside “A Fine Romance” too!!! I feel so blessed to be planning a trip to the English Countryside this spring!! I can’t believe I am really gonna get to do this!! I have even been re-reading the appendix for a book too!! …And, watching all the movies Susan has suggested…and I even bought the book, “Walking with Beatrix Potter”!! And, Susan, I want you to know I am studying up on the rules of the road…England, here I come….saying (out loud) “STAY ON THE LEFT!) Hahahaha 🙂
You are so smart to look at those rules BEFORE you go. It will make it so much easier. I’m so excited for you, spring in England, you are going to love it! Those walks in that little book are wonderful! You just put me in a whirl of memory. OH!
How wonderful you have kept your diaries over the years. I love to see them all in a row on your shelf, now that’s being organized. Glad you are coming along so great with your next book, I’m looking forward to it.
Thanks for taking the time to post, I enjoyed reading it.
Love it! Like John Boy Walton…dashing upstairs to write down the thoughts that are begging to be let out! You are definitely on a roll, girlfriend! (Rye? Sesame Seed? lol!!!). Cannot wait, of course, for another Susan Branch book! ♥
I am currently reading “W is for Wasted” by Sue Grafton. I started with “A is for Alibi” and have been hooked on her Kinsey Malone, girl investigator ever since. A little more rough-edged than our beloved Nancy Drew, and always a good read! I won’t mention the others neatly stacked on the night stand…and, the writing table. I will never, ever catch up! The good news is that I will always have something new to read because I keep adding to the stacks!
Oh, and just so you know…that weight thing….losing battle. Trust me. Roxie and I walk daily, I stay out of the kitchen between meals…I wear my Fit Bit to keep me on track, I skip desserts about 50% of the time…and the caboose is still there, following me around!
I am off to update my blog…will probably post tomorrow. Like our drought, there hasn’t been a lot to report. We celebrated Charlie’s 55th birthday over the weekend and had a good time; Whitney and best friend, Stephanie came up for dinner. We played password and had a blast! So that is the task of the day…the blog!
….glad YOU are blogging…you keep me inspired….miss you! xo peg
Just got in from work (isn’t it fabulous to be getting in when it is light!) and made a cup of coffee so I could sit down to see your latest post. You never disappoint and always inspire me to add more life to my life with simple things. I LOVE the diary collection. I think I am going to start keeping a diary even though I haven’t done it since I was 14 (and I am now approaching 60). Just finished “Still Life in Breadcrumbs” by Anna Quindlan…it was great, you would like it.
P.S. You attract nice people. I also really enjoy reading all of the comments.
I love Anna Quindlen. She used to write for the New York Times, which I never read until I found that out. Then I had to have it and she was wonderful. I miss her. I’m sure I would love anything by her. Thank you for the suggestion. Aren’t the comments great? Our Girlfriends are wonderful. xoxo
Read Still Life With Crumbs, too. Loved it, and keep thinking who could play the parts if they make a movie……
I can’t wait until your new book comes out…..I flew through a Fine Romance! I like to go back and re-read about your trip to England….it is like you took us with you! I then went and read the Biography about Beatrix Potter, and she mentioned the Bee Skep in the alcove in the wall outside that you took a picture of and put in your book. Please keep writing 🙂
I will and I think I’ll try to make this next book a little longer so you can’t get through it so fast! 🙂
We’ll hold you to that! Smiling……
oh goodness…I made A Fine Romance last from October reception to February…some nights I would only read a paragraph and, yes, it did like to have kilt me (as I’ve heard many an Aunt and Granny say).
Can you tell I’m a HUGE fan of delayed satisfaction and gratification?
I had to read the kilt me part out loud to get it! 😉 You are good Sandra!
We are in for a wild ride with Anna Susana! How wonderful!
I love that you take the time to share with us ! I love hearing it all…I can not believe how organized your journals area….kicking self for not being better about all that……w h a t is Jack looking at by the door ? ! …When that happens with my cat children..part of me gets a bit spooked..mainly because the cat’s eyes are w i d e open and staring….not blinking at all …..but another part of me wants to believe it’s something happy and friendly and I’m wishing I could see it too !
I put my hand down there to see if there was air coming through the wall or something. Couldn’t feel anything, but he sure is keeping his eye on things there.
perhaps it’s the spirit of “rubberbands past” !
Hahaha! Could be! Or may a pack of ants carried off one of his rubber bands behind the wall . . .
Do you ever have a “mouse-in-the-house” or mousies under the floorboards? This is a good time of year for it…just saying…
Today is not a happy day here–have to make the “decision” and take Fanny in. Things have really deteriorated over the weekend and the time is right, unfortunately…Girlfriends, give your pups and kitties hugs today in Fanny’s memory…
We haven’t seen hide nor hair of a mouse in a long time, but that’s the only explanation I can come up with too. Hug Fanny for me, you are being a wonderful dog mommy to do what’s the best for her. xoxo sad.
After studying their kitty faces I am positive they are saying >”Look at her…..she obsessed” Don’t forget to feed them
Hilarious !
You are soooo delightful! Sign me up for this next book ~ I want to be first on your pre-order list!!! :} Love-love-love your ‘playful work’!
Every life is worth a book. Can’t wait to read yours.
So true!
Lovely….
Love that! 🙂
So looking forward to your next book, Susan!
Oh this is SO exciting and inspiring!!!! You know I would be pre-ordering your book RIGHT now if there was a link available!!!! How exciting that the writing is just spilling out! We all can’t wait!!!! Oh I just loved the picture of your diaries!!!! That is the stage I am at right now — keeping my diaries and journals and hunting and gathering and stuffing and waiting — because it’s not the time in my life right now to do something with all this stuff but I’m using you as an example that someday the time will come and everything I’ve stored away will just spill “write” out!!!!
Yes, I agree, someday the time will be right. And in the meantime, diaries are so helpful for your own personal growth.
Oh Susan, I can’t wait for this next book!!! I still adore A Fine Romance, but I can’t wait for your “New” England book!!! The seashore is where my heart lies!! Can’t wait to read about your adventure!!! Thanks for brightening my days!! Fondly, Kim from Dublin, OH
Susan, I’m so glad you have kept your diary’s all these years, to share with us! I love that “it’s all there”. Such an encouragement to all of us to keep up on our journal writing. I will be carrying paper and pencil with me now, thanks to you. So many times, I have thought of something I wanted to write down, and thought I will remember later~ and I don’t! …. We are working on healthy eating too around here. I think being prepared is a real key. Having those dishes at hand, and ready to eat. Your crunch juicy coleslaw sounds delicious! Can I just say, you always know the perfect things to share. Enjoy the snow, your kitties, and sweet husband, as you write away…. we can’t wait!
Have a great day Susan…your new blog posts always make mine…Love from Las Vegas…
From “Persuasion”, my favorite Jane Austen novel:
“Men have always had every advantage of us in telling their own story. Education has been theirs in so much higher a degree; the pen has been in their hands. I will not allow books to prove anything.”
The pen is in your hands. Your excitement about the new book is wonderful. Jane Austen would approve. Thank you for today’s story. Who knew cruncy vegtables are a key part of the writer’s world?
I am reading “I Always Loved You”, a book about Mary Cassatt. I thought of your lovely paintings when I read Degas’s words to Cassatt: “Paint Love. You must always paint love”.
Love that Grace, always paint love.
My mom made me that same circus cake minus the coconut. I must get out the photo of me and two friends behind it … age 6, I think … and put it on my china cabinet.
Aren’t you glad “Goldfinch” is such a long book? When books are good, you want them to be really long. I love that book.
So far I’m really glad. She’s quite the storyteller!
I love all the energy and happiness coming through this post. It’s invigorating! Besides that, the cabbage lurking in my kitchen may just have an interesting future as “Salade à la Susan”. Thank you.
Loved the energy coming from your blog today, Susan!! So looking forward to the book!
Also, could you, please, in the midst of all that you are doing give us an approximate of ingredients for your Apple/carrot slaw? It sounds delicious and I’d love some right now!!
And yes, this time change has my body in a funk…..it is just like jet lag,which takes me ages to get over!
I’ve been rereading my Rosamund Pilcher books. I guess I reread them every year; I’m on the Shell Seekers now; next on the list is September. And, speaking of books, I’ve read A Fine Romance twice now and will be doing so again really soon. I absolutely love, love, love it!
Take good care, Susan.
~~~Sherrill from CT
Someone else asked me for the ingredients a couple of comments ago, can you go look for that so I don’t have to do it twice . . . it’s there in as much detail as I could do it. Thank you about A Fine Romance! xoxo
How exciting — I can’t wait for your new book – it sounds wonderful!! I hope it will include your beautiful illustrations and photographs!
Martha from CT
Oh yes!
Good morning to you Susan ~~~ You sound very chipper this morning!! I’ll have to agree with you that you are fully into your new book that you are writing. There seems to be so much to do before you actually start writing. It’s a good thing you wrote in your journals all these years ago and didn’t throw them away. By the looks of that shelf, there are years and years of your life written down. I have only one diary, written when I was a senior in high school,that I’ve saved. Love to go back the reread it.
We are beginning to be in the mist of Spring now. Frank, my husband, put up my new swing Saturday. The rain held off until he was done. I thought that was very nice of Mother Nature to do that. We laughed…. just like washing your car….. let it rain right afterwards 🙂
I’ve been very busy making greeting cards for a friend of mine who is involved in a Rose Society. I’ve been doing this for several years now for her. They have judges from all over the US come to judge all the roses of the members. These cards are the ‘thank yous’. You mentioned that you felt like Christmas was going to be here before you know it. Well, my cousin mentioned yesterday in a e-mail that she was wanting to buy some Christmas cards this year. So guess what!? My next project will be Christmas cards in April 🙂
Need to get busy with the cards now, as my Granddaughter will be here for a few days tomorrow. Also, it’s nice enough outside now that I can start walking. Yay!
xoxo,
Carol M
I loved The Goldfinch right up to where you are now, slogged through Las Vegas, and crawled through the “after Las Vegas” part. I’m curious what you will think of the rest of the book, most people loved it, a few of us did not. Her “The Secret History” is my favorite book, have you read that? “The Goldfinch” was a great disappointment to me.
Interesting, and I wasn’t wild about The Secret History. So we’ll see. It’s probably not going to be my kind of story, but I do think her writing is wonderful and that makes me want to keep reading, at least for now.
Love that the creative juices are pulsing through your veins…..when it flows that easily and dramatically, you just know it’ll be a winner…can’t wait for the final product! Hope you are going to add some of those wonderfully painted vignettes besides the photos. Just love your artwork!
Hopefully a little bit of everything!
Forgot to ask where we can find the coleslaw recipe…found one in the Vineyard Seasons book, but it’s different. Is it in one of your books? Sounds delicious, and I would love the quantities of the ingredients. Thanks.
I don’t really measure. I just thinly slice the cabbage (the thinner the better) — a whole one and put it in a large bowl. Add two apples cut in sticks. Then the yellow raisins, but not too many or it would be too sweet, do that to your taste. Sliced almonds. Shredded carrots, but they are just for color, you don’t really need them if you don’t want them. In fact, all your ingredients are up to you on this. Take about 3/4 c. of mayonnaise and the juice of two or three limes, whisk together and pour over the amount you like. For lowest calorie, use as little as possible, for more flavor, use more. You can use one of the limes to squeeze over the apples before you put them in, that will make sure they don’t turn brown. If you have access to lobster, you can turn this into something very lunch-with-the-girls, tea-party elegant . . . on top a scoop of lobster, a drizzle of dressing and a sprinkling of radish sprouts or cilantro leaves, any cute little leaf. YUM!
Ohhh, thank you sooooo much! Going to the grocery store tomorrow and having family/company for the weekend!
Susan, have you ever done a Day by Day calendar? I would love, love tearing off a new page each day to find some of your beautiful artwork and inspiration!
One of my biggest “pet” peeves is when the family pets suddenly focus intently on something that is invisible and silent to humans. Most of the time it’s amusing . . . but sometimes it can be a bit creepy. Keep your eye on that door!
Susan, I am so excited that you are coming along with another book for us! Sounds as though your book can hardly wait to get out. Thank you for going through labor again! xoxo ♥
I am so excited to hear of your newest creations! Cannot wait! Okay, I will. But, I’ll be sitting at the edge of my seat with anticipation of joy ahead. I love the way you kept all your diaries with tidbits and what nots tucked inside. Precious. Have a lovely day Anna Susana.
Thanks again for sharing your interesting and exciting thoughts. I’m SO HAPPY that you are working on another book for us. Can’t wait to read your blogs about it as you work away. However do you fit it all in?–the blogs, making healthy snacks and meals (they take time), playing with the kitties, walks, exercising, keeping Joe happy, etc. Thanks much for all you are and do–and have done!
I don’t get everything done every day!
Can’t wait, can’t wait! A Fine Romance is just the best. Thank you for taking us along on your trip to England. I loved every word and picture and illustration! And now I can’t wait for your new book to come out. I, too, kept dairies when i was in school and before I got married. Why did I stop? Please – keep us posted!
Susan – you describing your “addition to writing” reminds me of the scene in Little Women (with Wynona Ryder) when she finally decides to write what she knows – you see her writing compulsively while hearing the memories replayed in her thoughts. That’s how I imagine you- retrieving all those memories!! I really think you need one of those funny nightcaps like she is wearing! I don’t imagine your middle finger has a permanent black mark from writing with black ink though!
Happy writing!
I’m dressed about as close to her as I could be and still be living in 2014! Shawl, sweaters and knitted blanket on legs . . . it’s still cold here!
Oh, Anna Susana Branchburger the Third, so glad you have been journal keeping for years and years!! All of those authentic stories are just waiting to be savored again. I’m so inspired by this wonderful adventure! Throughout the day, whenever I think of you writing, the song “Happy” begins playing in my head over and over again! I can tell you feel just like “a room without a roof!” ♫♬ “Happy, happy, happy, happy!” ♬♫
Happy hugs,
Dawn
♡♡
Thank you Dawn, xoxo Love your musical notes!
Susan, you are a constant joy! Thanks for brightening up this dreary day. When I lived in California I “loved” days like this to break up all the sunny days. Now we live in a beautiful town called Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and we have more gloomy days than sunny. I’m taking a high dose of vitamin D but it doesn’t seem to be working! God bless you for sharing your wonderful life with all of us! You bless me every time I read a post!!! Donna (Idaho)
Not working, that’s not good. It’s almost over Donna, hang in there. xoxo
Dear, dear Susan!
Loved getting a fresh post from you this morning… I officially started Spring Break this morning and it seems like perfect timing…. To not have to get up an hour earlier to get to my munchkins at school. Plus, I have been fighting a cold for the last week, so it is good to be home, working in the garden with the wisteria blooming, filling my soul with the beauty that is ours for the taking on such a fine day!
What a fun post. I love it when a project is in that exciting beginning stage, and all the ideas are flowing out from your pen, or pencil! I just love that you two are working together on it, with Joe coming in (sans tea bag) to help edit.
Love, love, love reading about your creative process… And your mom’s circus cake!
Have a good week,
Marsha
Could not do it without Joe! Lucky you, wisteria! We’re a long way from that, that smell is one of my favorites.
Well, Ms Anna Susana! You have just delighted us all with this particular blog. I love hearing that the writing is coming along nicely – kind of magical how the words are flowing! I hope you will ( and I know you will !) keep us updated as you go. You’re on your way again, and we are happily along for the ride. I took a close look at your 4th diary- I had one just like that that I scribbled poetry in. Happy Monday and enjoy the writing of the new book about you! Remember, we’re interested in everything and we just love lots of pictures!
OK, that’s a good reminder! 🙂
Susan ,
Please moderate me, if you will. Also, I am thrilled that you are creating a new book- cannot wait to read it. Good luck with the thin down ; it’s a bit easier with these warm days ahead- in between the snow flurries ,of course.
Mary B.
I’m sorry, haven’t got to moderating yet today. I’ve been writing, and now I’m going to go ride my bike and read my book, then I will come back and moderate like crazy this afternoon. OK? I promise! Love hearing everything from you girls! xoxo
I loved the Superman intro. The hours we spent watching it back in the 50’s! I’m sending you some musica in return! youtube.com/watch?v=r8S00iUk68I.
So glad to hear that the inspiration angel is sitting on your shoulder as you write!
Barbara W.
I’be been wishing for this book a long time! Now I’m mentally standing in line to get it.
But don’t rush. The more the better. : )
Write girl write! We’re counting on you to entertain us again! Just wanted to tell you that you are responsible for my sheep obsession. I have a pintrest board just filled with adorable sheep…and yesterday my dear daughter who has learned to do this needlefelting thing made me the most adorable ewe and lamb. They still need eyes but you would LOVE them. I told her they are just the beginning of my flock (wink, wink). Wish I could send you a photo of them grazing on some plastic dollar store grass. Have to find something more elegant and suitable! Hugs, Hope
I am looking forward to that book:)
It makes me sad that 99% of my agendas from 19 83 to 2010..all work..
Clients names..building inspectors..appointments,open houses..
I should have kept real life journals..I did start in 2010..when I stopped working..
But I would love to read old entries..etc.
Good for you..it must be wonderful to step back and read..what was then.. and what is now..
Basically I don’t think I ahve ever chnaged in what has been important to me.
I hope my grandsons read the cards..or little letters I ahve written them one day.
I wish I had letters form my mom.
I ahve the last birthday card she bought for me..unsigned.I was 19.
I would love so much more..
Love the circus cake:)
On page 4 of The Goldfinch..just just opened it in the car on the way out..will really start it soon~
I have some Christmas shopping done too..not much..just things I thought I may not find next yr..
Love your blog.
Thank you Monique, that was nice.
LOVE your blog Monique!!
I wish I could put my thoughts down and feel the freedom of a clear mind to do what I want when ever I want. Love this blog, time to take charge, Thank-you !!! Spring is coming to Lancaster,NY can’t wait, beginning to think I’m a warm weather person wanting to be by the sounds of water with toes in the sand. Have a great day!!!!
Since you asked….yes, I Christmas Shop every Monday! It’s something new I am trying this year. Oct, Nov and Dec are my busiest months, in every aspect of life, business to personal and I want to savor every single holiday moment. Plus thinking of one or two people a week, I can choose the perfect gift for the perfect price and do a really spectacular wrapping job. Enjoy your trip down memory lane!
That sounds fun, Esther, to Christmas shop every Monday.
Love it, Susan! You are so full of energy — on a roll! Wish you could see my bookshelf! I did a double take!! Did she photo my office/study bookcase??? 32 volumes lined up just like that. Love those flowered journals from the ’80’s!! We must have been related in another life! 🙂 Keep it up my friend!! Can’t wait for the next one! Working away on ours. Not quite as fast, but we’ll get there! Thanks for the inspiration! xo
Something wonderful to look forward to! Thank you for including me in the process.
Ok, now that you have tempted us the thoughts of your new book, guess we must all be patient! In the mean time, am going to the store right now to buy the ingredients for your yummy coleslaw. . . Can’t wait to try it!
Hope the creative energy keeps flowing!
Funny you should ask about Christmas shopping. Last night my Johnny asked me if I’d begun my Christmas “making”–quilting, simple sewing, gathering and curating precious things. Right now I am just in the thinking, planning, list-making, imagining stage, which is great fun.
You can’t start too early! It’s very good busy work anyway!
LOVE handmade items for Christmas!!…….ENJOY!
I love, love what you write. How you share your life, your thoughts, yourself, so enhances our lives. THANK YOU! I love, love YOU!
xoxo kisses … Thank you Eileen!
Susan I love you and your wonderful blog! I can relate to everything you post. As I watched the Super Man clip, I found myself saying the words – guess that says I was a huge fan of that show 🙂 . I teared up with you as you read letters from your grandmother, mom and other memories. Thank you for sharing a bit of your life with us – makes me reflect myself and find such gratitude for family in the past and present. I look forward to your new book! I gobbled up “A Fine Romance”.
Wishing you all the best life has to offer.
Yay. Anna Susana. Can’t wait, can’t wait. Woo to your Hoo (as they say). The girlfriends will be waiting patiently and cheering you on. But thank goodness we have A Fine Romance to keep us occupied. I keep rereading it as well. So lovely. Have a great day!!
Well, what ever side of the rainbow (screen) you’re on, happy day after daylight savings time! The last eleven years I worked I always tried to get this day off as a staycation day, cause it’s such a draggy tired day! At least now I can be lazy and have an excuse! I knew it I knew it I knew it! I knew you would just HAVE to go to all your journals and get them into a book, they were calling you! (We have memories we want you to write about!!!)
I bet Jack smells a mouse trying to stay warm till spring, that would happen to us in our other house, lots of nooks and crannys for them to scurry in from! Listen for scratches! Hope it isn’t one tho!
Oh Susan NOT TRUE! You have LOTS of astute and brilliant thoughts and ideas!
Please Joe, no more tea bags hanging from your glasses, ok? Although it was a fun laugh!!!
Hugs to all of you,
Jeannie
Spring is coming! The tree frogs have been croaking high in the trees today! At first I thought it was the pileated woodpeckers, but then realized they were answering each other from different trees! Spring! Spring! Hooray!!! I went in and made banana peanut butter cookies for lunch. It is 70 deg here today, going to run back outside to eat cookies and read a book, it’s about Ireland in the 1980’s.
Hugs!
I LOVED The Goldfinch! The young boy’s character rings so true. Despite some sad moments, I also laughed out loud at his young boy antics.
Looking forward to your book. I’m intrigued…