Hi Everyone! Between WILLARD (which starts going out this morning and finishes Wednesday night) and this post, I think I’m going to wear you out! But in the Willard I promised you a recipe, I promised “make-up gifts.” (Too long since last Willard, should call them welcome-back gifts). But first, we need MUSICA . . . and I need to show you what my dad, better known as “Blog Daddy” and his darling wife Jeannie sent us for Easter.
Is that cute or what? I get the bunny with the bow and I’m seven again. It’s got green peeps, it’s filled with those 
little chocolate eggs with the thin crispy crust and my favorite dark chocolate-covered coconut bars. Thanks Dad, thanks Jeannie! There’s me and Blog Daddy → . . . Such a cute surprise! (We were so young!)
I hope Easter weekend was as beautiful where you are as it was here! We’ve been getting amazing doses (as in medicine) of spring, drinking it in, making it almost impossible to stay inside, stay home, stay down. We want OUT! We pop this music into the player and off we go…
The island is coming alive and it’s fun to drive around and look at it. You can see we are still waiting for leaves on the trees, but the air is filled with the sweet smell of thawing earth, the light is new, and the sailboats are coming back. It’s perfect timing . . . Happy Earth Day! It’s today! Pretty smart of the powers-that-be to tuck Earth Day into this beautiful time of year! For extra enjoyment, for frosting on the spring cake . . . Check out the Washington DC Cherry Trees in bloom! They will put a song in your heart.
And now, here’s the recipe for the cake I wrote about in Willard, an old-fashioned lemon-filled sponge cake, soft as a baby’s hiney, perfect for spring birthdays, and gorgeous as a Mother’s Day Tea Cake.
And since I made this cake for Easter, I thought I’d show you just how easy it is to put together. Making this roll is much easier than you might think if you haven’t done it before.
So set your oven for 375° and here we go . . .
Butter a 10″ x 15″ cookie sheet that has a rim (jelly roll pan), then lay down a piece of waxed paper (allowing it to go over edge), smooth it into the corners and into the butter, and then butter the paper too.
Put the yolks of three eggs in one bowl and the whites in another.
Beat egg yolks a little bit then add a cup of sugar and . . .
Beat them until they’re thick and lemon colored . . .
Sift a cup of flour together with salt and baking powder . . . (don’t worry I’ll give measurements at the end)…
And stir it in to your batter along with six tablespoons of hot water . . .
Beat the egg whites until stiff and glossy.
While you’re doing that take a peek outside . . . oh, my, what a DAY!
And LOOK!!! I begin calling for Joe . . . we have robins by the herds, we have gaggles of cardinals, whole families ~ (not that I will ever take them for granted), but see that bird on the right? We never see that bird. ever. Got out the bird book where we find out it usually likes woods and thickets. This is our driveway . . . he is a “rose-breasted grosbeak.”
We ooh and aaah over him for a few minutes . . . He must have spring fever, coming over for some dessert seeds.
OK, that was nice, but back to “work” ~ folding in the egg whites . . .
And then the zest of one lemon . . . Now spread the batter evenly on your well-buttered cookie sheet and put into oven for 12 to 15 minutes.
While it’s baking, lay out a clean dishtowel and sift over a sprinkling of powdered sugar.
When the cake is done, and wafting fresh cake fragrance to the neighborhood, bring it out of the oven and use the edges of the waxed paper to turn it out onto your powdered-sugar covered cloth . . .
Voila! While still hot, carefully peel off the paper. Then take a pair of sharp scissors and cut off the crispy edges of the cake all the way around . . .
You can eat those crispy edges immediately, but from experience, if you eat them all now, you’ll have nothing to dip in the lemon filling you’re about to make. Just sayin’ . . .
Now, using the dishtowel begin to roll up the cake. It’s fairly malleable while it’s hot so you can make a nice roll, just pull out the towel as you go . . .
Once it’s all rolled, just leave it there and let it cool while you make the filling. Essentially it’s in training now to be a roll.
LEMON FILLING: In the top part of a double boiler, put two whole eggs, a cup of sugar, the grated rind of two lemons . . .
The fresh juice of two lemons and two tablespoons of melted butter.
Pour the juice into the double boiler through a fine sieve if your lemons are like mine and filled with seeds. Stir over simmering water for fifteen minutes until the filling is thick. Cool slightly. (Más MUSICA Girlfriends?)
Then it’s time to unroll your cake; carefully peel it open until it’s flat ~ it goes very easily . . .
Pour over the lemon filling and spread it almost to the edges, but leave it thick in the middle. (Don’t forget to save a little bit of filling to dip your cake clippings in if you have any left.)
Roll the cake back up, not TOO tightly, because you want the lemon filling to stay inside. I roll and lift the cake a bit as I go so as to keep the lemon from squeezing out the sides. Move the cake to an oval serving plate.
Sift over a little more powdered sugar ~ the cake is beautiful, but I decide it needs a little Easter decoration . . . so I run outside to pick some of my pretty yellow (non-toxic) forsythia flowers . . . any excuse to go outside is a good thing.
And voila! Like little butterflies. Your cake would be just as pretty with wild violets, pansies, johnny jump-ups, or roses . .
Now, soak the dishes, while you’re at it, notice the guy in the garden . . . that really good guy in the garden? Doing the aphrodisiac-thing women love?
Mulching and getting everything ready . . .♥
Go ask him if he would like a piece of Lemon Cake . . . Tell him you will bring it and he can eat it in the garden.
He deserves this . . . tender soft sugary cake with the most lemony of lemon fillings . . .
And while you’re out there, find reasons to stay . . . Hang up your bird houses . . . because you LOVE the serenade of birds in love . . .
Go take a picture of your old bunny crossing sign … take note of good mulchy dirt . . .
Give up looking for more to do and go on a walk! Such an amazingly gorgeous weekend.
Remember these Jingle Shells I found on the beach . . .?
. . . and then arranged on my window sill?
Well, one of our Girlfriends mentioned how much she would like to have some of these genuine Martha’s Vineyard jingle shells . . . so yesterday, out on our walk, I collected these . . .
And I put them in this Emma Bridgewater tin as a surprise . . . because I thought they might be a fun giveaway for spring, to celebrate the change of season, a box from the sea.♥
Jack agreed. I tied the box up in a little bag. Then I thought maybe not everyone wants shells, but I bet everyone would love an original 1900 copy of the wonderful “Elizabeth and Her German Garden,” the first book written by one of my favorite authors, Elizabeth von Arnim (she also wrote “Enchanted April” which you would love if you haven’t already read it). So I added that . . . Look at the beautiful raggedy edges on the pages of this old book . . . (Of course, If I’m doing anything different at all, Jack is immediately involved. He has an inquiring mind that wants to KNOW.)
So I put them together and thought, that looks nice, but something is missing . . .
A Fine Romance! Yes, must have that in the package. I hope you like it! I’ll sign my book and the Elizabeth book to whomever wins the drawing . . . All you have to do to be entered is leave a comment; right here at the bottom of this post you’ll see the tiny letters “comment” ~ click there and say anything sweet and you’ll be entered.
But is that enough when it’s been almost a year since your last Willard? Don’t you owe the Girlfriends something else? Maybe not “owe” but “wish to give?” Oui! I think so! So Vanna will choose TWO names this time, and the second name drawn will get these two Keepsake books (guided “life story” journals with lined paper, places for photos, sewn-in ribbon bookmarks ~ and lots of fun questions to be answered in their own handwriting by mom’s, grandma’s, aunts, sisters), more Mother’s Day festivities! xoxo We are starting early because we know that the best way to remember Mother’s Day is to forget it once, but we never want that to happen!♥
Here’s the recipe Girlfriends!
CAKE:
- 3 eggs, separated in two lg. bowls
- 1 c. sugar
- 6 Tbsp. hot water
- 1 c. sifted unbleached flour
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- grated rind of one lemon (zest)
- sifted powdered sugar
Preheat oven to 375°. Butter a 10″ x 15″ cookie sheet or jelly roll pan, one with a rim. Line it with waxed paper leaving some to hang over edges (an inch is fine). Set pan aside. Separate eggs into two large bowls. Beat egg yolks, add sugar and beat until thick and lemon-colored. Stir in hot water and dry ingredients. Beat egg whites with electric beater until stiff; gently fold into egg batter. Fold in grated rind. Pour batter into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake 12-15 min.
Immediately turn finished cake onto clean dishtowel lightly covered with sifted powdered 
sugar. Carefully peel off waxed paper. With sharp scissors, cut off the crisp edges of the cake. Using the cloth, roll up cake pulling out cloth as you go. Leave it covered and rolled, set it aside to cool while you make the filling.
FILLING
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 c. sugar
- 2 Tbsp. butter, melted
- zest and juice of 2 lemons (strained if necessary, no seeds please)
Put all ingredients into top part of double boiler. Beat well and stir til thick, approx. 15-20 min. Cool slightly.
FINISH
Unroll the cake, spread on the filling, and roll back up. Cool completely. Transfer to serving dish. Sift over a tiny bit more powdered sugar. Add flowers if you like, edible and unsprayed, violets, pansies, roses, johnny jump ups. Here’s a list of edible flowers.
Now something everyone needs the week after Easter, a delicious recipe for:
These make the most delicious just-home-from-work treat, on the porch while you watch the green things growing. Which is what I hope you’re all doing these days, just as crazy with spring fever as we are. ♥ Deep breaths of the gorgeous outdoors, that’s the only “cure.”
Happy Spring, Girlfriends . . . I’m off to work on my book, my new addiction, a few hours every morning, trying to figure out what our heroine is going to do next (she seems to have a mind 
of her own) . . . housekeeping, gardening, normal life in the afternoon. Don’t forget to leave a comment for the seashells and books. Also, if you have any trouble with WILLARD, be sure to let me know. He goes to lots of addresses now, it takes a couple of days for them all to go out, but if you haven’t received him by Thursday morning, check your spam box (because I’ve heard he can take a detour) and then let me know . . . you can write either here, or on Twitter, or on FOSB (Facebook), and we will be paying attention!
XOXO
What a wonderful thing to find in my email! Thanks, Susan, this made my day. I love anything to do with Jack, so that was fun also. Wish, wish I could win! Someday I’ll get back to Martha’s Vineyard – hope I get to meet you sometime.
A special day, indeed! First Williard arrived and then I clicked on the “BLOG” spot and reconnected with your blog. Somehow with the new gmail format my easy to click icon for your blog got lost and I don’t seem to know when you have offered a blog entry. But, I’ve found you and am thrilled to try once again to win a prize! Happy Spring!!
Can’t wait to read your new book! Hope it has a lot about Martha’s Vineyard. I find the island so calming and never tire reading about it. Thanks for all your stories
What a treat to get a letter from you today! I have shared it with some of my friends. Congratulations on your book.
Lauren
You are like a spring day Susan… you light up our lives with all the beauty you produce!
What a lovely giveaway! My fingers are crossed! Come on, Vanna!
Though I haven’t had much free reading time. Spring has sprung and I’ve been out in the garden among the Irises and Rose buds! The Roses… are… almost… open! And it’s very exciting.
I love seeing spring unfold in your neighborhood. The flowers are different in your neck-of-the-woods and I love seeing them! My daughter wanted me to plant a cherry tree for her (here in north Texas) but they really don’t like it here. I’m trying to find her a tree-substitute. I’ll just show her your pic instead!
What a nice treat the shells would be.
It was lovely hearing from Willard and seeing the Spring awaking of Martha’s Vineyard. Thanks for the granola recipe.
Spring is taunting us here in Halifax as well. It’s been a long hard winter and just when we get a sunny, warmish day, the next will be cool and grey. I don’t care, I’ve been out in my “new” garden every day exploring and uncovering the secrets beneath the un-raked fall leaves and deadfall of winter. I was lucky enough to find a historic cottage to rent and although I have only been here six weeks, it felt like home the moment I walked through its front door. I feel inspired to try my hand at your lemon cake, though I am not much of a baker. The instructions do seem quite manageable! Happy Spring to you and yours!
Susan,
I’m a 33 year-old single mom to a little boy. I’ve been reading your books since I was in high school and this blog is such a sweet place for me to take a few moments to relax at the end of my hectic days. Thank you for creating it and for being such an inspiration.
Read the latest blog via my e-mail yesterday, and the Willard came today. We’re still very wet here in western Washington, but there are many signs of spring, if , like you said, you take the time to really look. So much has been happening “out of sight”, and now, we can see wild bleeding heart, little yellow wild violets, plum tree blossoms, chives to put on our baked potato, etc. We’re READY for Spring! I enjoy seeing pictures of your eastern spring.
I can’t wait to try that cake! It looks soo good!
So many pretty things today – your rose-breasted grosbeak, yummy lemon cake, bunny baskets, sea shells, spring gardens, and Jack!
It’s the start of strawberry time here. Yesterday we were out driving and stopped at a fruit stand. We bought fresh lettuce and strawberries as big as your fist – so sweet and juicy! I also couldn’t resist a bouquet of sweet peas. They smell so good!
Thank you again, Susan. You are the queen of sharing time! =^..^=
Thank you for bringing spring to everyone no matter where we live. You brighten my days… Thank you for the beauty you create. It brings great joy to so many.
Oh, my goodness, I love the book, the shells, the Snipe and your adorable books!! You always make me so happy! I, too, run outside any chance I get! My birds friends are singing right now as I write. Hope, hope, hope to have a chance to be a winner! It is Spring all around in Tennessee!
This is just lovely.
Just wondering if you have ever blogged pictures of your quilt collection, in particular the ones made with your Language of Flowers fabric. Would love to see them and your vintage quilts as well. Thank you for the consideration.
I’ll work on that!
More Willard…MORE! It’s such a nice break to read it. I almost feel like I’m there with you. You are very much admired and appreciated in Lone Oak, Texas.
Love reading your blog and Willard. Also thanks for the recipes. So glad to see you and that you have had a good year. Take Care!!!!
What a nice surprise to find Willard waiting for me when I got home! I’m looking forward to your new book.
What a wonderful ending to the day to sit down & read your “Willard”. I enjoy reading your blog so much also. I have a little black kitty also & love to see what antics Jack is up to. Thanks for bringing so much joy to all of us. You are truly an exceptional person. ~Shar
Soooo glad to have Willard again. He disappeared after the first one I got. Being a computer challenged person, I figured I’d done something wrong. But I have been a great fan for many years of your beautiful art. It was delightful to read everything you wrote and sent in this email. Love your fabric designs- hint, hint. Any in the works? Love, Gmapat
I would love it, but haven’t made time to reach out to fabric manufacturers.
I remember the first time I saw one of your books….each family picture reminded me of shots we had taken of our family….it was Christmas time. Since then I have collected many of your books and would love to have my mom complete her memories in your guided journal!
Happy Spring! It’s wonderful to see and to smell the newness of springtime outdoors…and it must smell especially heavenly indoors at your house!
I loved reading Willard! So nice to have him back!! I’m excited to be taking my first trip ever to the beautiful state of Virginia in a couple of weeks. My husband and I will spend our 30th anniversary in Colonial Williamsburg! If that’s not romantic, I don’t know what is! Of course, my copy of “A Fine Romance” will be coming along as well to visit beautiful colonial gardens and Monticello. Can’t wait!!! ♥
Sweet sea shells. Have been putting my shells out over the last few weeks. The ones you gathered would be so lovely with them! We are in full spring here in Nashville, TN – everything blooming and so lovely.
Susan, I can’t get enough of you and your writings! You inspire me to love myself, my home and everyone around me!
Thank you for all you do. I greatly appreciate you.
Wanda
P.S. I live on a little farm in Iowa. I wish you could come and visit!
Love lemon anything! I think I’ll make it for Mother’s Day and serve it with fresh strawberries from our local pick-your-own patch – YUM! Thanks, Susan!
Coming from an island, I love seashells. Enjoy your Spring.
Love reading Willard and can’t wait to make the cake above. Looks divine!
You and I have been “girlfriends” since I was a young Mom, (my baby is now 22). Your art and words have always managed to cheer me. Now, going through some health issues, I look forward to your emails which never fail to cheer me. Thank you.
Wishing you good health Jeanne! xo
This is my first WILLARD. Love it! Thank you. How grand to have a peek at Spring on your special island.
I am always so inspired by you, every detail, so perfectly perfect. Thank you!!
Dear Susan, I love your blog and in the new Willard you solved a mystery I have been wondering about since last Spring, the name of the little blue flowers I see scattered around peoples lawns = Glory of the Snow !! I’ll have to get some of those. Those shells are so pretty, I think that alone would be a lovely gift!!
Thanks for the new Willard! When I was done reading it, I felt I was in the kitchen with you as you baked. I gave “A Fine Romance” books away as Christmas gifts because I wanted my friends to enjoy the book as much as I did. Imagine my surprise as my friends have come back to me with stories of their friends who travelled the Emglish countryside. Your trip brought back huge memories for them. I love how they have purchased books to go to their friends so they, too, can enjoy your trip! Thanks for doing what you do!
So fun to hear Cathy! Thank you!
I love the quotes and stories in Willard about singing. Music is a big part of life in my family, too! I am inspired to do more of it and also to put some time for me on the calendar. I feel cheery for having read it….thank you.
Thank you for a little “SPRING INSPIRATION” Susan! Love it all! : )
Oh, Susan! I have never seen Jingle Shells here in Maine, they are beautiful!! I have read Enchanted April and I enjoyed every page!! Enjoy the rest of your Spring! I love your home, your gardens, your cats, your birdies and YOU!!
Deb
Dear Susan, I love your blog! So glad Willard is back. Thanks for the delicious recipes. I hope to try them soon.
Sweet spring! Thanks for sharing your lovely corner of the world with the girlfriends, Susan. You have a most generous heart.
Greetings from So. Cal. The desert cactus got just the right amount of rainfall this past year and is vibrant and blooming. The birds are nesting in my garage and singing all my favorite tunes! It’s a sweet Spring!! I always enjoy reading your blog, and will look forward to your new book. Happy Spring to you, Susan!
Loved reading this and the Willard! The teas look amazing! Would love to try them all! A sampler would be fun! Thank you for a wonderful read.
Oh Susan … Any time I need a pick-me-up, I just sit down, take a big breath and read your most recent blog post! You are truly an amazing writer, and describe situations and things so perfectly … you are a BRIGHT SPOT in my day for sure! I covet my SB books, and I covet my “friendship via the internet” with you, too! Thanks for being there for all of us!
Don’t you just love Springtime? Thanks for the new Willard, recipes (granola sounds yummy!) the giveaway, and last but not least your enthusiasm for all things “Spring”!!!
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful recipes and beautiful photos of spring on Martha’s Vineyard. Thank you also for your heartfelt observations and travel inspirations.
Next big trip will definitely be England!!! Looking forward to your next book. Wendy
Love everything you do!!!
Oh! It was just delightful to hear from Willard again…And it sounds as if his mom and dad have had a busy winter doing wonderful adventures. Just love your blog and envy your artistic talent with much enjoyment. Enjoy your Spring time, and hope you send those lovely shells my way. Thank you……
My goodness, over 1, 500 comments already! Yours has to be one of the most popular blogs on the internet! And it should be – I always just feel so good and right at home when I read one. Spring is getting so beautiful here now, with the jacarandas blooming and all. There’s a happy little bird that serenades us every morning. I wish I knew what it is; it seems to have quite a variety of melodies. Well, like everyone else, I think it would be a joy to win one of your giveaways, especially those shells, but congrats ahead to the winner.
MMMMMM, Jacarandas! LOVE that tree. We have it in California, but it really loves Mexico the best (or at least that’s where I learned about it), and there are none on this coast.
My first Willard. I am enchanted. This is just what I need to maintain a positive mindset and get creative juices flowing. Thank you for stirring all my senses.
Oh it was so fun to get my first Willard and I would live love love to win the giveaway! Thanks for the updates. I hope there will be a lot more to come.
The lemon cake lookps delightful and do glad to see Willard!
The lemon cake looks divine! So glad to see Willard!
I read your blog for the first time. Fun and beautiful. I used to have a copy of Elizabeth’s Secret German Garden and hope I win this one.
The lemon cake looks divine and I am so glad to see the newest Willard.
Love Enchanted April too… A Fine Romance! Do you have any more trips planned?
We’re thinking about going to Scotland, but won’t decide for another month or two. I’m immersed in this book for one thing, and the other thing is we were on the road and so busy with A Fine Romance, we’ve had very little time to just BE, which is what we are doing now. Nesting. It’s wonderful.
Susan – Can’t wait to read your next book, it sounds wonderful! And it’s great to hear about how much fun it is to write. You’re right, first things first. Oooh, Scotland!!! I hope you do go when you’re ready, and that you’ll take us along with you.
I love Rosemary Clooney singing “I Wish You Love”.
How could I go without you? Just would be no good at all.
This is the first time that I have went to your blog. I have several of your cookbooks & always enjoy seeing your work. I will continue to read the blog.
I enjoy your mailings so much and am thankful that I have not missed any so far. I caught one going to spam so I had to make a change so that would not occur again. Thank you for a chance to win these wonderful happys.
It always make me smile to read your blog posts and Willard email
Thanks for sharing your spring photos and those yummy recipes. Our spring is a little behind yours, but the crocuses are blooming and the tulips are growing. Thanks for a chance in your wonderful giveaway.
I think Jack is adorable. I’m definitely going to make that cake.
I adore your blog. Thanks for bringing some extra sunshine this early spring!
Thank you for always making my days bright! My
Mother is gone and as a young mother when I read your
Blog it reminds me of her wonderful magic and how
Everyday is special and always an adventure! You are an
Angel on Earth!xo
Oh I love those shells, loved the Easter Blog,if I win, could I please have the receipe for the polenta cake,I’m looking through all my books and I must be blind I can’t find it …
Thanks
Hi Lynn!
Go to the archives link at the right of Susan’s blog and click on January 2014. The recepie for the cake is on the Jan. 12 post, I think. It is yummy, and it makes the kitchen smell heavenly while it’s baking. Enjoy!
I’m not sure if I already left a comment or not, but here I am and oh would I love to win.
Hi Susan,
Happy Spring! Your blog and Willard are two of my favorite things…..I always look forward to both of them. Thank you!
beautiful!
I look forward to ur posts. They always make me smile. I print them out & keep in a binder so I can re-visit them! Shelley Brown Griffin
Beautiful shells – we don’t have any like that on our beaches. Would love to add them to my collection
This was my first Willard and now I know to be on the lookout for it, such fun.
Thanks, Susan
I adore old books written by women and reading about how they lived their lives. It was a more gracious time and makes me think of my grandmother. A 1900 edition is a treasure! Lovely gift!
Every post makes me smile & brightens my day. Your garden is so lovely. Love all of your books. Hope to get at least one of them signed someday.
How can I not say something sweet. You write about the things I love and your drawings and quotes just touch my heart. I would love your prize but most of all I just love to read what you write.
Janice
Though I’ve gathered plenty of jingle shells myself, I sure would love a SNIPE tin! And I NEVER say NO to a BOOK. I sure hope Vanna chooses me. My girlfriend Sandie and I will be seeing you SOON, in JOON in Connecticut. Who knows, we may CROON you a TOON. See Ya! (And thanks for a really, really lovely book about England, where I’ve been twice, but never to your places, but oh do we know those narrow roads…fortunately my husband drove.) LJ
That lemon cake looks so yummy!!!! I must get to Martha’s Vineyard. I haven’t been in years. My friend has a cottage there. You might see me someday
Susan,
I just started collecting Beatrix Potter figurines and I was wondering how many you have.
That’s a good question . . . I’ll count — it looks like fifteen, unless I forgot somebody.
Oh! Who do you have…? And, btw, I know this is a terrible question to ask while you’re insanely busy, in the middle of working on your new book, but… is there any way for you to re-release the “Garden” book that you did several years ago? Unless, that is, you have copies of it hanging around?… like behind the teapots or something? LOVED LOVED LOVED that book. Gave it as a gift a few years ago and didn’t get one for myself and now cannot find it ANYWHERE!!! Yikes!!
What did it look like? Was it one of the tiny little books?
I’d love a Snipe Hunt! Love all your things. So beautiful.
Susan, I love your bunny baskets! Tell your dad and Jeannie…they did good! Adorable!! That cake looked so yummy!! Oh yes, I am so in love with spring!! (Even though we had a “blizzard” a week ago!) Now we seem to be having spring like weather. I do and always have, loved to watch any green that is sprouting up out of the ground!! Also, seeing the leaves opening up on the trees!!
You must have read my mind…I would love those “yellow” sea shells!! And to have a piece of MV…it would be just like being there!! And all those other beautiful gifts!! You are amazing and I’d love to win!!
Oh, that lemon cake looks scrumptious! And I actually own a jelly-roll pan!!
Thanks so much for the recipe. I look forward to reading Willard; hopefully it will arrive tonight. Your giveaway is so thoughtful and fun….Vanna, choose me, choose me!
Happy Spring!
Nancy (from Bakersfield)
Your post was filled with so much Springtime hope & cheer. Thanks so much for the recipe!
“hey there” or any other thing
Happy Spring!
I enjoyed this Willard, so much, it really touched my heart. Spring is especially beautiful this year, even more appreciated after the endless winter.
‘Twas the best day ever when I discovered your blog…an avalanche of abundance is contained in every post you create. I am envisioning the jingle shells on my sun porch decorated in coastal fashion; here in the middle of Nebraska.
I have my book club reading your books fine Romance this month I am to lead the discussion. I wish I knew what questions to ask?
Something Sweet.
Happy Spring! Time to start gardens!:-)
Wow, lots of goodies from Susan the last 2 days! Love it! You put a smile on my face and make me stop and appreciate my days. You are such a warm and special person, never stop being “you”. Would love to win your give away. I’m going to make your lemon roll cake someday, too!
NancyG
Count me in!
Also… Have you read The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
Through our beloved England…
Yes I did, loved it!
Hi Susan! Love the post! The cake looks delicious!!! I would love for Vanna to draw my name because I turn 50 next week!!! Aaaaah! What a wonderful way to celebrate!!! But I am sure which ever name Vanna draws the rest of us will celebrate for him or her!!! Have a lovely Spring! Thank you for sharing your beautiful world with us!!! I love it it when you share pictures of recipes because you usually always show your gorgeous stove!!! Love Hugs and Prayers! XOXO Tricia B.
Oh Ms. Susan! I have to say that I would soooo love to get the keepsake books. My mother passed eight years ago before my daughter was born. I would have loved to have had such a wonderful book from my mother. I would like to create one for my little girl. I love the shells by the way; they remind me of fingernails for some reason, but I love them anyway.
If there were ever a reality show called “Life Swap” I would apply with the hope of experiencing yours. Thank you for sharing your comfy, cozy, and charming world via your missives and art. When sharing your world so generously and freely I am able to take a break from the day-to-day, and dream of the ideal life – complete with wisteria perfumed air, spring breeze drying the laundry and white picket fences.
That’s quite an idea, Life Swap! We could do it, but only for a week, I bet we’d all want our own lives back! With gratitude! Fun to do with people of the past. I would life swap with Mrs. Mark Twain!
Then you must tour their house in Hartford, CT if you haven’t already, after/before the Gladys Taber Reunion. I loved the little garden conservatory they had just off the library. This tells a little about the house: marktwainhouse.org/house/history.php
Oh yes, I’ve been there, cried all the way though it!
Luscious lemon cake in the oven…….mmmmmmm! With lilacs from my mom’s big bush…missing her so much! Happy Mother’s (Auntie’s too) Day
<3
How I have enjoyed all the winter to spring pictures, Jack and your favorite fella working in the garden! Would love to be a winner of those precious jingle shells and garden book. I think my Mother had that one….wish I had known to save it! Thank you Susan for the joy of all your books, I have most of them and try many of your wonderful recipes!
Seekie
Susan, your photos and words are like a spring breeze chasing away the remnants of winter from our hearts and homes. Reading your inspirational and cheerful posts makes us all feel a connection with you, even though we’ve never met. That’s your magic. Thanks for the recipe. I now know that when life hands me lemons, I can make… lemon cake!
The lemon cake looks delicious! I can’t wait to try it.
I love reading this blog…thanks Susan!
I would love to win some of your “goodies” that you are offering! Loved all the recipes–can’t wait to try the cake. Your memory books look wonderful—I have been working on writing down some of my childhood memories–those would be perfect to use.
Thank you Sue, you are such a treat for us all! Willard and your blog are like a bright ray of sunshine that warms us on a cool spring day! What a wonderful life!
Lovely post, as always. When we moved to CT about 9 years ago, it was the first time I ever saw the lovely rose-breasted grosbeak. I always look forward to them visiting my feeder, but they are elusive. The cake recipe looks just delicious too. Saw that Willard showed up in my mailbox today – looking forward to some quiet moments to savor it.
Fun giveaway! Thanks for a chance!
Willard was definitely a fun read. I also love jingle shells… I collect them every summer on Cape Cod. The tin you put them in is beautiful… I also have a tin collection. My daughter’s birthday is today and I think I will make the lemon roll cake for her when she comes home this weekend. Some of our family’s favorite dishes have come from your cookbooks, in particular Lemon chicken. Please keep offering the wonderful ideas and beautiful gifts to purchase. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE.
Hi Susan…I loved this post…inspired me to get outside yesterday and dig up some dirt! And I truly enjoyed Williard this evening…it tugged on my heart strings a bit because my dear dad used to sing “A You’re Adorable” to us when we were little, then he did the same to all his grandchildren….and hearing it always makes me think of him. Thank you!
This was my first Willard. Thoroughly enjoyable:-) Thanks for sharing!