Today is my day for B I R T H D A Y G R A T I T U D E and we’ll start with my favorite song ever in the history of the world . . . MUSICA! Good Morning Crocus, ♫ Good Morning Daffodils, Hello Tulips, ♪ Hi there Miss Hyacinth! Hello fresh spring air, you smell so good! ♫ Hello Sunshine ~ Hello GIRLFRIENDS! ♫
T O M O R R O W I S M Y
So many things to be grateful for and I thought today would be a really good day to talk about them.
Let me first say that if I put every one of my blessings in this post, reading it would become a full time job because they pretty much go to the moon. But I have to start somewhere! My favorite magazines have arrived and for my own birthday present to me, I’m taking them to lunch this week. Me and them, alone, at a corner table, with a knife to hold them open so I can eat Sesame Noodles and read at the same time. One of my most favorite luxuries, reading all alone in restaurants (a sidewalk cafe on the Champs Elysees? Oui!)
And him, my shadow, he’s more than a luxury, he is my must-have. And the very best present I could ask for, he and Girl have been playing this last week, chasing each other up and down the stairs, you can hear their feet running back and forth upstairs, ambushing each other, jumping off the beds. It’s wonderful! So good for Girl and just what I was hoping for her when I brought Jack home. I hope it lasts. Jack is 2 1/2 years old and this is a first!
Spring has come to Martha’s Vineyard! The early morning light is exquisite. Pristine, fresh, clean, and a miracle if ever I saw one. Especially after this winter!
I have huge amounts of gratitude for Mrs Bowditch who lived in our house from 1949 until 1980 and was so good about planting for spring bloom. I got to meet her once. She’s been my inspiration.♥ I hope she knows I’m taking good care of her house for her.
Our daffodils are in bloom. Thank you!
We have nature’s address, it’s out through the woods along a dirt path that takes us here . . . no leaves on the trees yet, but the sun is lovely and the breeze smells wonderful, and you can hear the waves.
Crocus! Pure miracles. First there is snow and then there are crocus!
I’m grateful for talented Kellee who made me this kitty last year. xoxo
And for little children who write me beautiful letters with borders. Thank you Little Children! xoxo
I’m grateful for these, my own research department, my diaries . . . Yes, I know I’ve been MIA from our dear blog, and I’ve missed you! But every time I’ve tried to do an update (and I have tried!), I think “Oh, just let me add this one more little thing to my new book and THEN I’ll go do a new post” . . . that’s when I fall into “the zone” and have to say help I’ve fallen and I can’t get up. But no one comes, so what can I do?
I can’t save myself, and honestly, I really don’t want to. I like it in there. I’m driven in the best possible way. I wake up and RUN to my paper and pen before all my morning fresh-from-dreamland thoughts disappear. I have 418 pages of our new book written, Girlfriends. Of course, probably 50% of it is what English people would call “a crapjob” ~ but that’s OK, first I have to get the whole entire thing down on paper, and we’ll worry about crap removal later on. I promise, it will be distilled, only the juicy bits will be left when I get done. It’s almost my birthday and I feel so grateful to have this passion.
And then this . . . digging through my photos, I found this one. I am SO grateful for these two cutie-pot-pie Leos in my life, the Blog Daddy, John Patrick Stewart Jr. (hi Dad!) and my partner in crime, Joseph Buckminster Hall. ♥
And I’m so grateful I was ever a part of this group of little people. ♥ ♥ ♥
I love sharing my birthday with Gladys Taber. I love being born on the same day as someone who was a light to the world. ♥
I’m excited that Joe and I will be at the Friends of Gladys Taber meeting in Connecticut in June — I’ll be speaking and signing A Fine Romance and we get to tour her house Stillmeadow for the very first time!
And right after that, I come home to this . . . these are my high school girlfriends (last fall in California) . . . and they are ALL coming to stay in my house for four days in June! I’m grateful I have this to look forward to! We have stories, we laugh, we have fun! They are like sisters to me. I have some house fluffing to do! (And with my “passion” in full bloom plus old man winter to sweep out the door, this house needs it! 🙂
I’m thankful for this, because this means YOU. ♥
Counting the blessings of my last year, one of the best of all was going out to meet so many of our Girlfriends. Look how cute Lucy and Ethel are! I’m telling you, this was a ball!
A Fine Romance was such a blessing ~ it took me here ↑ (both of those horse pictures are still on the door of my studio, one from Jessie and one from Sydney) . . . and it took us all here ↓♥ To Beatrix Potter’s house in the Lake District. M A G I C A L , I almost can’t believe we were there.
And tomorrow, on my actual birthday, I get to go to lunch with my best girlfriends here on Martha’s Vineyard ~ 
making me grateful for a Spring Birthday ~ the perfect excuse for a girlfriend lunch. And then we’re all going to the nursery together! Our nurseries close in the winter, so this will be a treat, our first visit this year! Sometimes my California girlfriends wonder why I would want to live in a place that has such a cold winter, and this is part of the reason. It’s thrilling to go to the nursery for the first time, seeing the first flowers, smelling the warm sun on grass. It’s a miracle every year. The more miracles, the better. ♥
And this weekend, I’m going to write us a new Willard! Oh yeah, I think you deserve a birthday present too . . . make sure your addresses are all up to date. It won’t go out for about a week and a half, I’ll be sure to let you know.
One more wish, my birthday wish for you is that you go through your days gracefully growing more beautiful and wise, never missing a sunset or the opportunity to count your blessings, I hope that’s how we stay forever young. ♥ xoxo Love you . . . ✥Wham, *❊ BAM,✱ whoosh,✶* sparkles *♫*✱•*¨*•.☆.♪•*¨❋**••*¨ ✱*•★.* ♪* ✱ •*¨✸*•.★.♫•*¨☆✱*•*♥. . . feel that?
D O N ‘ T F O R G E T T O
Life Is Grand! And you, dear Susan, are a light to this world! Have a wonder-filled birthday! Cannot wait for the book you are writing!
I’ve learned one thing about book writing, and it’s that every moment should be savored because it all goes by too quickly! I used to be in such a hurry, and I still am, but I’m realizing this time how enjoyable it is.
Happy birthday, Susan! Wishing you a wonderful day with your dear friends, & by the way…….your two best men have faces that just glow with goodness. What a wonderful picture! As for Mrs . Bowditch,I’m sure she’s over the moon with happiness that you & Joe are caring for her house. Now if I may digress for a moment, I wanted to say thanks to the girlfriends who left such wonderful comments about my April fools story. (The naked guy in the cowboy boots). I posted that the day I got home from back surgery, so that was the last time I checked your blog until this morning. The comments really warmed my heart, along with your happy, uplifting post, Susan. I’m sure you know, but your blog is just a gift to all of us who follow you. Happy birthday again, & God bless.
Thank you Lauren!
Happy Birthday, Susan!!!! Tomorrow is mine, too!! YIPPEE!! We actually are not celebrating yet as my older kids have their prom tomorrow…such fun! But, I am going garage saling and going to get hot coffee and a scone somewhere…a couple of my favorite things!
Have too much fun tomorrow…I feel so lucky to share a birthday with you!
Blessings!
Happy Birthday Lori!
Happy, Happy Birthday, Dear Susan!!!
What a happy post to celebrate your birthday, and spring! I had my birthday a few days ago, and enjoyed looking at the April page of my Susan Branch calendar that you had signed for me right on my day! (At A Fine Romance signing). We have been coming alive in this part of the country too. The fresh spring air is energizing. I was able to cut a few of my mini purple iris for my BD. Wish I could send some to you! Enjoy your day from beginning to end!!
Thank you Linda and Happy Birthday to you too!
So, I was on my lunch hour today and thought I would check to see if you had updated your blog. I was so excited to see that you had. I settled in with my laptop and started reading. Then all of a sudden there was my picture! I’m the one in the grey blouse in front of Lucy and Ethel. I work in a school so I started running up and down the halls with my laptop screaming, “I’m on my best friend from Martha’s Vineyard’s blog!” I guess I talk about you often because everyone new exactly who I was talking about. There was still time left on my lunch hour so a had to call my close friends and family. My mom wanted to know why you didn’t mention my name. I couldn’t work the rest of the day … I just sat and smiled. Thank you. By the way, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
That’s such a great picture of you Patti!!! Of everyone! Perfect girlfriend picture of happiness. You tell your mom your name is on your name tag! 🙂 xoxo
Happy Birthday Susan. You are a woman who shows that the act of creating is one of the true joys of life. Your paintings and your words lift us up to a special place where there is light and enjoyment. Wishing you a fun filled birthday and many more days of just discovering the beautiful things life has to offer.
It’s what every woman I know does every day, making something from nothing, creating. xoxo Thank you Joan!
The happiest of birthdays to you, Susan! You are “over the moon” in my book! May this coming year be blessed with sweet surprises……..you are a sweet blessing to me! Hugs!
Thank you Miriam!
Happy Birthday, Susan!! And my best wishes to you in the coming year~ Every birthday is special and it sounds like you are doing it up right 🙂 I get pretty excited about my birthdays and my friends think that I’m crazy (we are all 60+). I just think that it’s pretty wonderful to be around to celebrate!
Lucky!
Happy Birthday dear Susan! Isn’t April just a glorious month to have a birthday? Freshness, new beginnings, beautiful flowers and sunny days! My birthday is on the 23rd and for my ” Happy Birthday to me” I ordered a Royal Albert “April” teacup with our birth month flower Sweet Peas. My Grandma had Sweet Peas growing in her garden and I thought they were sooo pretty.
Those are my 3 favorite magazines too! Must be an “April thing”!
I’m off to have tea in my new teacup and I will lift my cup to you to celebrate your birthday.
It’s my favorite flower too, the best fragrance and so delicate.
Happy birthday dear Susan! Hope its grand because you deserve it girlfriend! Can’t wait to read your new book. Karen Catpenter
Many Happy Birthday Wishes to You!
Happy Birthday!! Hope you get to eat lots of cake! ♥♥♥
Hello to you, a birthday girl!!! Just a short ta do to say “Happy Birthday to you, happy birthday to you, HAPPY BIRTHDAY deal Susan, happy birthday to you….. and many more!!!!
We leave on our vacation bright and early tomorrow morning so am busy busy as a bee getting all packed up. Going to Reno for a couple days and then Sacramento, Merced, Oathurst and then Eureka. It’s going to be a very busy week and a half.
Enjoy enjoy your birthday!!!
xoxox,
Carol M
Wishing you the Happiest of Birthdays, dear Susan Branch! You bring so much happiness and goodness and beauty into the world! Thank you!
Happy Birthday Susan! With all the things you have planned I know it will be a wonderful birthday. There are many things to be grateful for. Every single day I say five things that I am grateful for. Usually its small everyday things. But these small things make me happy and I don’t want to take them for granted. Well Happy, Happy Birthday to you! Wishing you love and happiness and a yummy tasting birthday cake! Love and hugs, Carolyn
I so agree Carolyn, it doesn’t take much but just the counting makes every day better xoxo
Happy Birthday, Susan! It’s been a wonderful year following YOU!!! And actually meeting you in November in OKC!! What a fun night!! Here’s another gift for you: Do you know of Mary Russell Mitford and her book OUR VILLAGE? She lived in an idyllic village near Reading England in the 18th century. If you haven’t got her book, this is the one you need! amazon.com/Our-Village-Mary-Russell-Mitford/dp/0136449239/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1397255370&sr=1-1&keywords=our+village+1987+edition I thought everyone knew about her, but I found out my friend, Ann (English stone chapel) had not heard of her and she has been to England a million times! Anyway, she was totally enthralled with my book!! This edition has reproductions of 19th century English Landscape paintings and some wonderful watercolor illustrations you will love, by Shirley Felts, an American illustrator who has lived in London since 1970. Well, that’s my birthday gift to you!! Hope you have a wonderful day 🙂
Thank you Jane!!
Happy Delightful Birthday to you, Susan; may you celebrate many more, all in good health and happiness.
I’m 61 today and feel every minute. We sheared 22 sheep yesterday and my body is crying like a baby. Now to have blankies made…it’s all good!
Sandra! Happy Birthday! After wrestling 22 sheep I bet your body would cry like a baby even if you were 16. 🙂
Will you be allowed to take pictures of Stillmeadow…inside and out! I would
Love to see a close ip of Gladys
Mine is Sunday…and aren’t April birthdays fun! The blooming flowers, the deep blue sky and gentle breezes…all helping to celebrate another grand year of life! Cheers to birthdays
Happy Birthday Dear Laura! xoxo
Will you be allowed to take pictures of Stillmeadow…inside and out? I would love to see a close up of Gladys
I don’t know, but I will sure try!
Dear Susan,
Warmest wishes for a wonderful and Happy Birthday!
Thanks to your recommendation, I’m currently reading “Elizabeth and Her German Garden”. It is almost as enjoyable as a Susan Branch book!
God bless you this birthday and always!
SO happy you are enjoying it. Isn’t she funny?
Happy Birthday, Susan! Your blog never fails to lift my spirits -especially on Friday afternoon at work!
Be like my daughter and stretch your birthday a WHOLE MONTH!
Happy, happy birthday to you!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY….Have a wonderful day……and eat as much CAKE as you want, it’s your day!
Angel Food, it’s all planned! 🙂
♫♪HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN!♫♬
Every day ⌚ I check my computer and today ⚑ you share this wonderful ☆ birthday blog with us. We know you are there, in the background, with your nose to the grindstone, crafting ✎ words of joy ☀, adventure ✰, love ❤, and everyday living ☼ ☺ ☂ ☹ ☕ ☯ — all to share with us. Have a grand day. Yes, spring ❃❧ is in the air (even here in NH)! Wishing you the best one ever!
Jackie
Cute Jackie! xoxo
Happy Birthday Dear Susan, Happy Birthday to you!! And Many Many More!
Happy Birthday yo you!
La Vie En Rose indeed – you show everyone how to live it and then you spread it around. Happy, happy birthday to the Girlfriend of all Girlfriends. I have felt that wham, bam, whoosh of your magic wand for years! It works!
Ohhhh Rosanee, you are so sweet. xoxo
Happy Birthday, dear Susan! Wishing you a wonderful day with lots of giggles and joy!
Dearest Susan:
I wish you a Happy and Wonderful Birthday and many more to come! I just had one, and they seem to be coming faster these days! Since there is nothing we can do to stop them, we must make the most of each year that we are blessed to be here… I hope your day is wonderful, and spending it with close girlfriends is the best birthday gift of all. I also love to eat alone in restaurants with my books or magazines. It is truly relaxing to me, and I get to do two of my favorite things: eat and read!
Spring has sprung here in my area, so that means getting on the hiking trails once again. I took my first hike last week in the 7 Lakes area of Bear Mountain and had the aches and pains to show for it the next day. But it was worth every minute! Planning to go back tomorrow and try to finish the hike – only got about 3/4 of the way last time before we pooped out. Got to get those muscles back in shape after that long winter!
Nice to have you back Susan! You were missed! Happy B’day!
Happy birthday Susan from California:) will miss you at Stillmeadow but will be there in kindred spirit for every nook and crannie of the house. Luckily I do have the photo book of it. Would love to see the coffin door. I have Gladys Taber’s cookbook and use it many times, especially Smiley Burnette’s pancakes.
A setting sun that paints a tie-dye sky, a feather bed…an ancient lullaby…a kiss good night from one who’s love is true… That’s the kind of day I wish for you!
A field of flowers dancing in the spring…a little creek…a tree…an old rope swing. Cotton candy clouds against the blue… That’s the kind of day I wish for you! (Faith hill)
Happy birthday!~* Thanks for the years of inspiration!~*
Your fan, Arianne
🙂 love that Arianne. xoxo
It seems when life is getting me down, I check my mail and a post is waiting from you, and it never fails to make everything look brighter. Grateful for you; and wishing you a very Happy Birthday.
Thank you Bea xoxo
Happiest of birthday wishes to you!!!!!!! Enjoy your day!!!!!!!
Birthday blessings Susan! When I celebrate my birthday in September…..I will be enjoying a personal birthday message from you……written in on the 20th….when you signed my Susan Branch calendar in November at Remnants of the Past…..what a special treat for me! Spreading all that birthday love one girlfriend at a time :)…..Have always thought that you are extra special in the human being department……but knowing that you share your birthday with the oh so marvelous Ms. Taber….well that just confirms it!
Ohhh, it did make me feel really lucky!
Happy Birthday, Susan!!!! Have a wonderful day.
Happy Birthday Susan!!
Reading all your past WIllard posts made me so happy and relaxed. I read about ten of them in a row. Your home and gardens are so beautiful. I was always a fan of yours for many years and purchased many of your stamps and several of your books. But, working full time got in the way and I lost touch with you, and now that I am retired, I am taking the time to do the things that count. I am glad that I found your website, and I think your artwork and writings are wonderful. Thanks so much!!
.
Nice to see you here Sandra!
Susan, I have been so worried about you; I checked every day for new blog entry and thought, she must be busy on the book. Yea!!! I have them all except “Baby Love” and would love to find it for my first Grandchild coming in August!!!!!!!!!!!! “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” to you. I hope you enjoy your day as you so deserve it. You bring so much happiness to my world and I thank you.
I know exactly why you want to live where you do, you love the four seasons as much as I do. I could not live where there was no snow, I love it! It allows me to hibernate a little and to work on my quilting that I love to do. But now I am ready for the newness of Spring! Ready to get my hands dirty!
Enjoy,
Stephanie
Four really big excitements every year. 🙂
Hi Stephanie,
I bought “Baby Love” to give to a new mom but she received a baby record book at her shower so I would be happy to give it to you if you like for your new grandchild. I purchased it second hand from Chapters but it is in good condition. Maybe you could give me your email address and then I can make arrangements to mail it to you.
Oh how sweet of you Elaine! That is such a nice thing for you to do. xoxo
Hi Elaine,
What a thoughtful gesture. My e-mail address is [email protected]. Thank you for thinking of me:)
You and Gladys knew exactly the day to be born on and add so much joy to the planet….
I mean really………………….what a day to be born a magnificent woman!!
Happy Birthday Susan………..Love and BIG hugs from Colorado!!
oh btw….tomorrow for your birthday, we’re going to have LOVELY weather, in the 70’s….and the high on Sunday? 39 and SNOW!!! I’m serious. xoxo
I heard that! I went to our “weather report” this after noon to check for that snow coming here and you know what it said for today, on this bluest of blue-sky days where, for the first time, we opened the doors and let them stay open, it said, “Rain, all day.” I had to refresh! But no, that’s what it said. My wish for you is the same. 🙂
Happy Happy Birthday from me Sandy to you Sue
I’m glad that it’s your birthday, so I can sing to you! hey!
(I hope you know the tune to this because it’s so much cuter than reading!)
But the wish is just as grand…blessings! xox 🙂
🙂
Happiest of birthdays to you! !
Happy Birthday! All good things happen in the Spring!
Happiest of birthday’s tomorrow, Susan! It sounds like the lunch and trip to the nursery will be fun and inspiring. I so love your forsythia and crocus faithfully coming up. I so remember the yellow, purple, and white crocus mom planted in our yard. Come snow or frost, they were not deterred! And once they were up, you knew that green grass and warmer days were going to outweigh the cold and blustery ones. Such soldiers of hope and tenacity, those crocus were!!! Even as a child, you knew by the crocus that Winter was on the run and no matter what the thermometer said, Spring was here. Isn’t it incredible the truths that those tiny, colorful crocus brought us every year?
I love that your new book is coming together. So exciting!!
Happy Birthday Dear Susan! You must outlive us all so that we never have to have a day without you, your art or your words! Promise, promise!
That is probably going to be a bit of a problem. We are all in this together but I’m just going to copy my dad on everything.
When I read your post it reminded me of this quote I saw online from A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh. “If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you.” This one is sweet, too. “We’ll be friends forever, won’t we, Pooh? asked Piglet. “Even longer,” answered Pooh.
Linda you said that perfectly! Susan, I hope your birthday is beyond wonderful, like you!
Happiest of Birthdays to you, Susan! I am celebrating mine today. Flew to San Francisco to spend the weekend with my daughter. It’s a fascinating city, but soooo many people and so much concrete. I can’t wait to spend the summer in Michigan by the side of a Lake Michigan with wild turkeys, seagulls and deer.
I know exactly how you feel. xoxo
Me too, Pam. Just wish I could be there all summer too. I’m headed to Ludington Easter weekend, ’cause I just can’t stand it any longer. I always find my smile at the Pentwater exit!
Sara
Happy, Happy Birthday to you, Susan!!
Let us also count our blessings one of them is your talent and the happiness that you shine down on all of us. Kept checking in for your blog, anxiously awaiting!
Happy Birthday Susan! even though it is not our birthday the day after your birthday is my anneversary, my husband and I 19 years. so April is a wonderful month for so many reasons.
Wish you a wonderful 4/12/14.
Happy Anniversary!!
I am so grateful for your life which has graced mine for so many years. You’ve generously shared the beauty of your life, your mom, dad, siblings, family pets, friends and those who have inspired you. I thank your mom and dad for the life they gave you which has enriched us with pure American family love and adventures. You always show us your compassion and never waste an experience (you turn the sad, difficult ones into understanding instead of bitterness). Happy, joyous birthday dear one.
XOXO Carmel. What can I say. Wish I could give a giant group hug!
Happy Happy Birthday, Susan!!! I was thinking about you yesterday and realizing that we hadn’t heard from you in a little while, and then POOF! Here you are! 🙂 I’m so glad that you are doing your art and in the “zone” which is a terrific place to be for artists! Blessings to you on your special day…you have blessed mine! ♥
Very good idea!
Merry Birthday Wishes to YOU!
May joy be yours all day and into the year to follow.
Find something at the nursery to plant in honor of your new book and your special day, then christen it with the best wishes of Judith Viorst sent to you by Kim.
Nothing like a day out with our “dears” to start the “New Year” right.
Every time I checked and saw no new post I said to myself– “She Works!”
It’s very exciting to contemplate what is coming forth onto the pages . . .
Those guys of yours — YUM! :-).
The kitties are playing with each other YAY!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Thanks for posting in time for us to send you good wishes.
Loved the MUSICA today which brought up one of my favorite memories of seeing Louis Armstrong play his trumpet and sing on the stage of the old Palomar Theater here in downtown Seattle around the time of “I Found my Thrill on Blueberry Hill” in the early 1950’s maybe. They played movies and had live acts at times. So odd now to think that you’d sit watching a movie, then these giants of jazz would saunter onto the stage and do their thing!! Saw a bunch of them. Most gone now — for sure the theater, and most of the musicians, but they live on in my memory. Sometimes it’s good to be an old timer. SO HAPPY BIRTHDAY once again. It’s all good.
Wow, you saw Louis Armstrong. That is history! Did you ever see Frank?
No didn’t see Frank, but saw Desi play his bongo drums before the I Love Lucy Show happened, in that same old movie house. Think it must have been in the works because he kept mentioning his wife Lucille Ball. Saw the Mills Brothers there, Lionel Hampton with Jack Teagarden in the group and a bunch of musicians with these people that were well known. This was all before Seattle was hardly on the map. Apparently it was a good/fun town for musicians of the day.
I guess so!
Happy Birthday!! Yes, I’ve missed you, and news on your book. I’ve been MIA from my blog for 2 months… way too long, so don’t feel bad. You were busy!!
I am so happy to hear that your kitties are playing!! That is a miracle. Girl kitty will be so much happier with some running & frolicking!
I have to tell you all, that I have a new furry baby. Today, after marketing, I was driving home, and a voice just said “go get your kitten.” So, I went to the animal shelter, and there were two little kittens. A group of college girls took one, and the other was my perfect choice. Amazing. She is 8 weeks old, all white, except for calico on her tail and head, plus a few fair orange spots on her tummy. Her fur is long, so right now she is just a puff ball. She is fitting right in here in my studio. The other kitties are just watching for now, no hissing or slapping, so all will be fine. I am just tickled! We are all blessed here.
Lucky you Holly! Always so much fun to get a new kitten!
Happiest of birthdays to you…a celebration of your life!
Happy Birthday, Susan! Have a wonderful day. I cannot believe sweet little Jack is 2 1/2 years old! How time flies.
Hope your birthday is full of many blessings, dear Susan! Hos fun to be here as a part of this wonderful community of well-wishers who have been “gifted” by YOUR amazing work. Thank you, and many happy returns of the day!
With love, Marsha
Happy Birthday! Your posts are such encouraging lovely sweet things. I always feel uplifted after reading them – and I re-read them too.
Very glad to learn that writing your books is fun for you because reading them is fun for me. 🙂 Thank you so much for sharing yourself!!
Happy Birthday Susan!
I love all of your books and products. For many years I have enjoyed reading your emails, newsletters and now your blog. Keep doing what you do best – creating beauty with your drawing and painting.
Hope you have a wonderful birthday,
Cynthia Arnold
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR SUSAN!
Its your Birthday and you send us presents of your laughter and smiles and joys in your Blog! THANK YOU!
Enjoy your special day!
May your candles be ’21′(forever) and if not, may you have a fire extinguisher handy! Love, Kisses, and Hugs from another one of your fans.
Have a wonderful “bird day”.
The first purchase at the nursery is so exciting. I went today but since we are a week to ten days behind you south coast and islanders nothing much was out but pansies. I did get two heathers and can hardly wait to tuck them in.
Enjoy!
Even if all I get is a pot of pansies, just being there will be nice. Doing things outdoors in a casual way instead of running from the car to the building! 🙂
Susan ,
I wish you a very happy birthday. My birthday was on the 8th, and I’m still celebrating. Wish we could celebrate together. April birthdays are just the best. This year, I am restarting my life and can’t wait to see what adventures unfold. As I consider the things for which I am grateful, YOU are right on that list with all the Girlfriends. Such kindred spirits we are. You always bring light and joy to us. So thank you for being you!
My new book is all about restarting life, so in a way I’m right there with you! Good luck Kelley!
Happy Birthday to one of my favorite persons!!!
I know everyone must say this, but honestly, I’ve thought so often we have so much in common! I know, I know, but I am a mom of 8 and love all things domestic. I already had a lamb cake pan and the “Kitchen Gardens” book, I have a daughter is a hopeful, self- taught watercolor artist, a son who’s hero is Roy Rogers, and we just loved “Books and the World”…..I mean we really wanted to watch more episodes….but what made me say “no way” was when I read your dad’s name. My husband’s name is Patrick John! So there we have it….have a wonderful birthday and “any more” as is sometimes sung in our home!
Debbie
Wow, isn’t that amazing. And you are the mother of eight! More Amazing. xoxo Thank you for taking the most valuable thing you have, time, and saying hello! xoxo
one more thing…..I just want to say thank you for your love of life, especially home life that is so “catchy”. Many times have I said to my older daughters, “now, how about Susan Branch?” as they are trying to make their way in a world that doesn’t exactly match their ideals (including finding Prince Charming), but yet have hopes, dreams and plans and need some real life inspiration. As as mom I just want to pour as much love, home and good things into my kids’ lives and look for good to come of it all. We shall reap what we sow, yes? Thank you for helping me do that. Looking very much forward to your new book!
Debbie
That’s all you can do, spread the joy you have to your children, and it’s a wonderful gift, not only to them, but really to the world.
A very Happy Birthday to a very special person!
Happy Birthday dear Susan!!! May it be the best ever and the coming year be filled with blessings!!!!
Bobbie
xxxxx
Happy Birthday to you, Susan! Enjoy a perfect day! We’re still waiting for Spring here, in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. But it’s on its way! xoxo
Enjoy “your special day” – birthday fun with special friends. Your posts were missed – and wow you have the most awesome high school friend connection yet — outstanding! Enjoy every minute!
Happy Birthday Susan. I know you will have a GREAT day!! I love reading your posts and Willard……
Happy Birthday, Susan. May God bless you on your birthday and all year through till the next one comes around and you can start another round of blessings.
I celebrated my birthday earlier this month. I agree with the others–April is a wonderful time to have a birthday. As a little girl, I always wanted my birthday to come before Easter so I would get a new dress to wear. My aunt always came through for me.
Enjoy your birthday and everything connected to it.
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear Susan,
Happy Birthday to you!
Have the best day ever.
Happy Birthday Susan!
Hello Susan,
Have a birthday filled with Love and Happiness. Had not heard from you in a while…was starting to get worried! Glad it was just being absorbed in your creative self.
Have a wonderful day with friends and loved ones.
Happy spring!!!
Kathie from Limerick, Pa
Happy¸♥¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ Birth-day ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ To ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ You ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥… .♪♫•*¨*•.Happy¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ Birth-day To ¸♥¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ You ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥♥Happy ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ Birth-day ♪♫•*¨*•.¸♪♫•*¨*•, dear Susan!, Happy¸♥¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ Birth-day ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ To ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ You ♪♫•*¨*• and wishes for many more….
Have a wonderful, magical, fun-filled, absolutely perfect day, and may the coming year be filled with moments to cherish, smiles and sunshine and all the blessings of a happy life filled with love.
Thank you Susan!
It was so good to open my email and see your post! I’ve missed them, they are always so uplifting, and this one especially so. Have a wonderful birthday celebration tomorrow–make it at least a month long celebration!
Happy, happy birthday!
Wishing you a wonderful birthday, Susan!! May all your dreams come true. Thank you for all the joy you bring to so many people! Eat cake, have fun!!!
Happy Birthday Susan! Today I introduced our 9 month old kittens to pony tail hair bands. Steel and Cali love how they fly and bounce. A good time was had by all. This activity will be a daily occurrence.
How fun!
Happy, happy birthday dear, sweet Susan! You are the epitome of gratitude, graciousness, kindness, awareness and sensitivity! You are a blessing to so many…strangers and those known to you alike! You deserve a perfect day of celebration and it sounds like you will have it! Bless you! Sending along the wish that you will enjoy many, many more just like this one!
I know I’m among kindred spirits Carol, thank you! xoxo
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN!!!
You share a birthday with my friend, Anita Jane (just put a card in the mail for her today). I love the photo of you as a child — you are one of the few people who looks just like yourself from childhood (I guess that means you are an all natural girl!). Have a wonderful, blessed day and enjoy your Joe, Jack & Kitty Girl and your dear friends.
winnie*
>^..^<
Have the Happiest Birthday ever!!! <3 Love your blog, and missed you while you were lost in " the zone"
Feliz Cumpleanos Susana!
May you enjoy your birthday to the fullest. Happy Birthday Girlfriend!
I say, you are a birthday gift to us out here in blog land. You are a true inspiration to us sharing your artwork, books, recipes, even trips to England.!
Cheerio.. and pip pip. May the next year bring you more blessings and good health!
Felicidades!
Lydia Alejandro
Pip pip and muchas gracias Lydia!
Dear Susan Branch!
I return the same birthday sentiment you wrote for my magical birthday–Happy Birthday, Dear Susan!
Your birthday plans sound just lovely! I wonder what your sweetheart has planned for you!
You spend so much time making joy for everyone else….so I hope your birthday is fantastic ALL DAY LONG!
Remember, wear something very cute because you’ll be in a lot of pictures!
Many Happy returns of the day to you! XXOO Chrissy
Happy, happy Birthday,Susan!!! May you have a wonderful day of celebration!
Dear Susan, Gladys Taber may have been a “light to the world”, but you are, too, my dear! Wishing you the happiest birthday yet!! So love all you do and always look forward to your next blog…our own special “letter” just for each of us!!
Buon Compleanno dear Susan!
(Happy Birthday- Italian style)
Hello Susan! Wishing you the happiest Happy Birthday ever!!!! Angels on earth do exist……..YOU!!! May God Bless you and keep you safe, happy, and healthy all year long!!!
You are such a light, Susan, and as usual, you’re illuminating our lives in that special way you have. I am thrilled for you, Susan, first of all that it’s time to sing “Happy Birthday to you” and second that you have your dearest and bestest girlfriends coming for four whole days in June, and third that you’re having a blast writing your book. And Gladys Tabor gathering, etc., etc.! Loved all the pictures, especially those two handsome, smiling men in your life!
Birthday blessings all the year through, Susan, from your lamb-lovin’ girlfriend who’s addicted to Farmers of the UK! 🙂
Sara
Have a FANTABULOUS BIRTHDAY!!
Connie
Wishing you a most wonderful birthday, Susan!
Happy Birthday Sweet Susan….
Sending heartfelt wishes to you….the one who brings such joy to my heart with her loving words, her appreciation for the simpleness in life…for the joy I feel from you through your words. Celebrate the beautiful woman you are and enjoy the best of birthdays!
xo xo xo Raenell, from California!
Good Morning……I want to wish you a day of fresh breezes, yellow sunshine dusting your shoulders, and enough Birthday wishes to overflow your heart with the Love you so deserve…..Happy Birthday with Love…. Suzie
wow!!! now THIS is the way to have a birthday celebration!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and, we all say….thank you. oh! thank you, Susan…..for being you!!! what a wonderful tribute…well deserved!!! I’m sure you are basking in the warmth and love of it all. my birthday is six-months-from-Christmas-eve….(june 24th)….and I’ve made a BIG deal out of that since I first encountered the significance. even found a “snoopy” cartoon once that referenced it in a very fun way… I certainly wish you a rainbow…another very significant thing to me…I always ask for one when I ask for a “sign”…..and, I always get it…sooo, your rainbow-mention here was mine for today!!!!! miracle. the poem from Kim….of Judith viorst really says everything sooooo beautifully, doesn’t it???? and…I LOVE to go into my kitchen and “make-something-out-of-nothing”!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! why, THAT is my favorite recipe!!!!! mmmm. have a great, happpppy b-day, and MANY HAPPY, HEALTHY RETURNS OF THE DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Most wonderful wonderful happy birthday Susan! I love all your Spring speak, today in Southern Illinois it is absolutely gorgeous outside. Tulips, crocuses, hyacinths, Bradford pear trees,and tulip poplars one big beautiful bouquet! Have been gardening for the last week and spent this afternoon out reading. The best part of all is next Friday will be my last day to work before retirement! This post just made me appreciate life so much thank you thank you.
Like you one of my favorite things to do is to get a favorite magazine and go to a restaurant by myself . I like to save my magazines for just such a special occasion and Saturday will definitely be that special occasion.
Happy Retirement Cindy! And lunch . . .
Happy, joy-filled birthday, Susan! So many of us are grateful for you & all the wonderful, creative gifts you share with us!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN!!!! Thank you for sharing it with us!! I have checked almost daily for a new post from you……..you have been missed!! Great reason though, a new book! I still only allow myself a few pages at a sitting of “A Fine Romance”. I don’t want to come to the end!!!
I hope the new book will be longer! 🙂
HAPPY BIRTHDAY tomorrow Susan!
I must agree with the first comment I read, that your posts are gifts to us! They really are! I feel like I am getting a gift from you every time I see an e-mail from you. It’s like………”oh goodie, I need a cup of coffee (or tea) so I can read this.” It’s excitement on my computer!
We share birthday months, mine is on the 18th, so I can certainly relate to everything your wrote in your post today! I too am grateful for a spring birthday, and every thing about spring.
I love seeing and hearing about Jack, and your family. And I love how you have accomplished so much in your life. Your enthusiasm for everything is inspiring!
Thank you!
Happy almost birthday Cindy!! Thank you back!
Loved the birthday blog. I have checked every day for a new entry and it was worth the wait. I know u work hard . Thank you for all your thoughts. They keep me thinking the world is a better place with u in it and your willingness to share your wisdom and work….. Esp the quotes you search for.. All is good have a great day!,,,
Hi Birthday Girl!!!!
Happy Birthday from another April Susan.
Wishing you a very Happy Birthday Susan!
I have been a fan of yours for years…..I love everything about you…..your blog, your art, your books, how you show us beauty (through your eyes) in everything!
I love you, as much as you love Beatrix Potter and her lambs! xox
That’s a lot of love right there Barbara 🙂 thank you!
Happy Birthday Dear Susan, I am wishing for you… the same joy you give us all year round! Have a wonderful, lovely day! Karen