Good Morning from rainy Danbury, Connecticut and hello everyone, especially Blog Daddy! You know what? I had planned to announce the winner of our Anniversary Drawing last Tuesday! But every time I went to do it, there were 
another 200 comments! So I’ve been waiting. And “moderating” — which is what I have to do because there is too much spam mixed in with all your nice comments and I need to delete it. Plus, I love to read what everyone says, so it takes me a while to get the comments all up ~ especially when we are traveling the countryside in our Fine Romance van! BUT, I just did it. Your comments, dear Girlfriends, are like manna from heaven. Thank you so much, you know how much I love our give and take . . . it’s a two way street, the love boomerangs off me, and back on you, back to me, back to you ~ and that’s how it’s always been. ♥ XOXO And now, MUSICA for our Blog Daddy.
I think I should wait til I get back home to announce the winners for the drawing. #1, because I’d like to make sure everyone has this last chance to sign up, but #b. we’re away and I think Vanna had a party at the house last night with all her elegant and enchanting friends, because she won’t answer the phone this morning! We can’t do it without Vanna! So why am I here you may ask? Well, Father’s Day is Sunday! And so, no matter where I 
am, my dearest Blog Daddy needs to feel the love. Here we are, my dad and I in Durango Colorado, listening (and dancing) to my brother Chuck and his band. My brother wrote a song once that goes “I’m so lonesome in my saddle since my horse died” that is beyond hilarious. I should write the words for you someday. I keep trying to get him to sing it on Youtube so I can put it up here. He is the highlight of our family reunions. ♥
That’s me and my dad up there, I have a pencil in my mouth . . . why, I do not know. But this message is for all our dads, 
brothers, uncles, husbands, boyfriends, and all the good garden-building, grocery-shopping, animal-loving, memory-making,funny-song-singing, laundry-doing, blog-reading, bacon-bringing, hammer-wielding, non-tail-gating, mommy-hugging, baby-kissing, help-providing, Good Daddies of the World. Here’s to you! ♥ We really do adore you! (Dad, Harfaparfy farfatharfer’s darfay tarfu yarfu, tharfuh tarfee sharfirts afar arfin tharfuh marfail. 🙂 ) Secret message in family language to my dad from the last of the big time spenders ♥.
And so, that’s all for now . . . Tomorrow is our big event here at Gladys Taber’s house (Stillmeadow) in Southbury. It’s very exciting for me ~ I’ve got my camera and Joe has his and we’ll give you the full rundown very soon. Until then, a couple more days to sign up for our drawing, and I will see you soon!!! Love you! Gotta go practice my speech! XOXO
Happy Father’s Day to all fathers. My own dear Daddy is in heaven now, but we still do a little celebration here on Earth for him each year.
I reckon whoever put Father’s Day in June knew what they were up to ~~ perfect barbecue weather! 😀 Sitting outside, good food on the grill, lots of lovely salads and sides, cold beer and soda pop ~~ see, they knew what they were up to!
Waving from Across the Pond from a wonderful ‘wunny’ {cos ‘sunny’ starts with an ‘s’} warm west Wales! Debs xoxo
Can’t break alliteration! waving back Debs!
Me and my Welsh heritage – my grandmother was born in Llanddudno, North Wales – wave back from San Diego, California, USA
😀 Hi Linda ~~~ Waving from Whizzy Wales!
I love your secret message to Blog Daddy! I hope you and Joe have a wonderful weekend in CT, and that the sun shines down on the farm.
Happy Father’s day to your Blog Daddy and to all the dads out there!
Thank you Susan!
Have a wonderful adventure at Stillmeadow, Susan and Joe! We’d love to hear and see EVERY little detail. You will truly be making wonderful memories there! Yesterday, as I worked in my picket fence herb garden, I was remembering how my dad came all the way from Arizona to help me build the raised beds and the picket fence many years ago (inspired by the Summer book). Such sweet memories! My whole herb garden feels like a hug from my dad! Happy Father’s Day to our amazing dads… and all of the wonderful men in our lives!
Love,
Dawn
♡♡
Something else we have in common, my dad came all the way from Arizona to help me move, build me a deck, take cupboard doors off so my dishes could show. xoxo
We are so blessed to have our dads! Every summer, my dad would ask what project I would like to work on together. Then he would UPS the tools we would need, so they would be here waiting when he arrived! Stripping woodwork, adding outlets, trimming big trees, building shelves, building the picket fence garden… anything! My dad ~ my hero! We are so happy that my parents are here visiting for a few weeks!! It will be such a nice Father’s Day celebration! ♡♡
Ah! There you are! This is you ~~ my new friend Dawn from the lovely blog Petals, Paper, Simple Thymes ~~ Have a wonderful Father’s Day ~~ it sounds like a plan! Debs 😀
Is this the Dawn who sat with Lucy and me at the north Chicago book signing about a year ago?
🙂 Ethel
I’m sure it is . . . the darling one?
Susan, I am so happy for you get to still hug your father. Our fathers were strong and loving. I sure miss mine. Hug your father for those of us who not longer can hug our own. Blessings, xoxo,Susie
That’s why he’s Blog Daddy, he’s letting me share him. xoxo I will do that Susie.
Happy Father’s Day, Jack! Thanks so much for being a wonderful part of this family of bloggers. Your humor, insight and wisdom are priceless. I keep you in my prayers for continued progress with your recent surgery. We’re blessed to have you as Susan’s Dad.
Susan, I know you’ll enjoy your day at Gladys’ event tomorrow. You’ll add enrichment to the day too. Thanks for introducing us to her. Have a safe trip home. Can’t wait for the pictures! A happy father’s day to all the girlfriends out there whose role is also to be both mom and dad. My mom was great as both!
This is true! Moms sometimes have to be dad’s too, and vice versa. Spread the love. xoxo
Good morning, Sue ~
Wish I could be a ladybug in the Stillmeadow grass so I could see and hear all the smiles and laughter (and your speech, of course!) Have a great weekend…what an honor for you! I just know the sun will shine tomorrow for you and all the girlfriends there 🙂
xoDebbie
PS: Happy Father’s Day, Blog Daddy!
It will be birds of a feather on that lawn tomorrow! We’re tucking everyone into our suitcases . . . so watch the blog!
THAT is what I wanted to hear!! I’m tucked in and feeling cozy in your suitcase! Can’t wait till you open it and I can stretch a little and enjoy the reunion. Yay! I’ll get to see Shannon!
Won’t be long — enjoy those heart-shaped air holes I cut into the bag. xoxo
Yay!!! The air through heart-shaped cut-outs is the sweetest air ever!!! Linda and I are so lucky!!!
Hi Linda! Bless your heart, my daughter and I just checked in to our room here in Danbury! Stretch those legs, I’m sure you had a comfy ride in Susan’s suitcase 🙂
We had such a wonderful time, I’ll put up some photos tomorrow!
What Tee Shirts???
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY, BLOG JACK DADDY!
WWII Veteran!
Survivor of Raising 8 Kids in the 60’s/70’s!
Modern Techno Master of The Internet!
What a HERO to us all!
Pork Chops for Supper….Be Celebrated!!!
That took a long time. Breaking the family code. You could have worked for the allies in WWII! xoxo
🙂
Pork chops? I thought it said “shirts in the mail” :0)
My mom and dad are a little famous for loving pork chops, when he asked my mom to marry him my dad told her they could get a pork chop house, pork chop furniture, pork chop wall paper and have a whole bunch of little pork chops running around. I’m their first pork chop.
This brought a tear to my eye this morning. My Dad was in the Navy, too. As a matter of fact, my Mom was a Navy Wave for 7 years and they met when they were both stationed at the Charlestown Navy Shipyard in Boston. It was love at first site and they gave me and my two sisters the foundation for a loving home. For as long as I can remember, my Dad kept a quote that he had cut out of the paper on the mirror over his dresser that read, “The best thing you can do for your children is to love their mother.” Be still my beating heart! Happy Father’s Day to my Dad in heaven and to all the Dad’s wherever they are. Have fun at Gladys Taber’s house, Susan. You’ll be FABULOUS!! 😉
That put a tear in my eye! xoxo
Goodness — I cried when I read the blog, now I’m just as weepy reading the comments. Oh, what I’d give to feel my dad’s strong arms around me again. He was one who had to become both mom and dad to us kids when I was just 10 yrs. old. I just can’t imagine how lonely he must have been after mom passed, but he always took such care of us and never let on. Thank you, Susan, for sharing your dad’s insights and humor with us all. Anxiously awaiting news of the Stillmeadow festivities . . . Ethel
It’s so wonderful that you can hug your daddy and listen to great music. Loved your story today about all the great men in our world. It did bring a tear and lots of lovely memories of my dod. Thank you for that. Have a special weekend.
You too Penne!
Thank you so much for writing a special blog for Fathers! I too am a daddy’s girl! My Dad was in the Army, in the Korean War. He will be 84 in November. Oh Susan, I so wish I was there with you at Stillmeadow. You introduced me to Gladys and I am so glad you did. I quickly signed up to receive the newsletters and I have had such fun searching for her books. I hope you have a wonderful time and thank you so much for sharing your life with us…..you are such an inspiration! Love you, Diana from Tennessee
I think the pencil in your mouth was a sign of things to come!
Happy Father’s Day, Blog Daddy and to my own Dad, in heaven, who was stationed in the Pacific (Navy) during WWII.
We love our Navy Dads!!
Happiest of Father’s Days to Blog Daddy! What a treasure that you still have him to celebrate with!! I can’t wait to hear how the Gladys Taber event goes. Hopefully you will post all about it with photos one of these days soon. Have a great time this weekend!
I loved your Father’s Day post! My Daddy was my hero. We owned land on a Lake in Canada and lived in a huge log home . He and my family(and of course me!) ran a hunting and fishing lodge. Cabins complete with out houses lol! We also raised the cutest sheep.He taught me to feed the little lambs. I learned so much from him and had so much fun . He taught me a true love of nature that has stayed with me always. There wasn’t a fish I couldn’t catch! I was his shadow, what he did I did. We even had an ice house! What a childhood! He taught me honor and the meaning of keeping your word, respecting people and nature and how to have FUN! I will love him always. I would like a chance at your wonderful drawing also. I am such a fan of Gladys Taber. How wonderful you are going to be there and speak. She and you would of been great friends! Have a wonderful time. Thank you so much for all the beauty and goodness you add to my life.
Mary Jane
Hi! I can’t wait to read about your adventures with the Gladys Taber group! I’ve been a fan of hers for a long time. My dear friend, Marcia introduced me to her books a long time ago. Oh, how I would love to see Stillmeadow… *sigh. For now, I will have to enjoy it through your pictures. 🙂 Hope you have a great time!
Also, your Dad sounds like a real sweetie! 🙂
He has his moments ~ 🙂
Sue, your brother’s sense of humor is priceless! He must YouTube!
Did you know one of Gladys Taber’s dear friends was “The Singing Cowboy”, Smiley Burnett? (Yes, the Smiley Burnette of “Petticoat Junction” & a buddy of Gene Autry!) imdb.com/name/nm0122470/
You and Gladys are truly not “Alone in the Saddle”!! 😉
Wishing You Sunshine, Lollipops & Rainbows at Stillmeadow!
Bunny XO
I do know that! Did you know she was born in 1899?
Just a few months before my granny: Gladys! 🙂
A BIG Hug to Blog Daddy! And to All Daddys!
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my Dad’s love and encouragement. He always called me his Heavenly Premie (born 2 months early… 60 years ago was a pretty big deal… glad I made it!)
Thanks for packing all of us into your suitcase. We will indeed be birds of a feather tomorrow.
Sending Love! How EXCITING!
Georgie fron NJ
Love having you here. And a very special father’s day to you and yours. xoxo
Happy Father’s Day to Blog Daddy, and many, many more! Your love, warmth,
and humor make me so happy for Susan and the rest of the clan ~ and all us girlfriends, too!
Susan, I’m SO excited for you tomorrow, I know you’ve been counting off the days since you learned of this honor last year ~ and now it’s here! Thank’s for bringing all of us along…..XOXO
I have been. I’m glad it took so long… 🙂
After reading your post this morning, Susan, and all the wonderful girlfriend comments, I too have tears in my eyes. My dad has been in heaven since 1984, and I am now taking care of my mom who is almost 87 and has increasing dementia. She never lives a day without saying how much she still misses him. You are so blessed to have your dad, and we are so blessed that he posts and you share him with us. Thank you from my heart.
Even though my plans to attend FOGT didn’t work out, I know it will be so very special with you there. I will be watching here to see all the pix and posts!!! You will be just wonderful!!! Have a great time!!! ♥
What a blessing to have wonderful memories of years w/ your dad. My husband has been an amazing father to our 4 children, & now their spouses & a terrific g’father. When they are all together, there are always stories of “dad antics.”
Enjoy your Gladys Taber day. Can’t wait to read/see all about it.
Looking forward to seeing all of your pictures at Stillmeadow. I read at least one of her books once a year. Hope you get to meet a member of her family…what a treasure to have that house.
✫*¨*.¸¸.✶Good~Morning Sweet Sue & Joe! 🙂 Happy Strawberry~Moon! 🙂 Happy Friday The 13th (A Lucky Day For All!) 🙂 Happy Father’s Day To Our Blog~Daddy Jack! We Love You! 🙂 Happy Father’s Day To All Our Dads & Hubbies & Boyfriends & Brothers & Uncles & Step~Daddies & Sons & All The Very Special Men In Our Lives! I Celebrate My Daddy Walter (Waldo) In Heaven… I Miss Him Every Day! 🙂 Thank~You Sweet Sue For Sharing Your Daddy Jack With All Of Us! 🙂 I Love The Tennessee Waltz! Twirling! Have Fun At StillMeadow ! Hugzzzz Love & Summertime Pixie~Dust Everywhere! Yay! xoxo Poof! ✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✫*¨*.¸¸.✫*¨*.¸¸.
P.S. I Can Imagine Vanna’s Party Last Night The Kitties Will Keep Their Eyes On Her! lol 😉 & The Pencil in Your Cute Baby Pic With Your Handsome Daddy….it Was A Sign of Things To Come….. 🙂 ✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸
Happy Father’s Day to your adorable Dad! My Dad was my hero, and when he died I thought my heart would break right in two. But, of course, my heart didn’t break because he is still there to help me keep it strong. Those Greatest Generation guys are/were something very special. SB and Stillmeadow – what a perfect combination! Love from Oregon.
You are so blessed to have your Dad with you still. I’m wishing my Dad a Happy Father’s Day in heaven and my wonderful husband a Happy Father’s Day here in the best place on earth. Good luck tomorrow!
Happy, Happy Father’s Day to you, Blog Daddy Jack!!! xxoo
Hello Susan,
It makes me smile to see you with your dad. I miss my dad. He’d say things like, “You want to come over for duck dinner? You bring the duck.” And if I were fretting about something, he’d put his arms around me, smile real big, and say, “Girl, you’re gonna be all right as soon as you get a little rest”. Then he wouldn’t let go until I smiled.
My goodness, I didn’t know your brother wrote the song about being so lonesome in my saddle. I remember seeing someone perform it on the Gong show years ago and he did it so fast that he didn’t get gonged. Could that have been your brother? It was hilarious.
Can’t wait for the news from Vanna. Keeping my fingers crossed!
Diane in North Carolina
Too funny, “you bring the duck!” That’s so dad-like!
I just love your stories about your family, especially from Father’s Day a year or two ago about your dad building the bomb shelter! I’ve never laughed so hard and read it to anyone who’d listen. Girlfriends, if you haven’t read it, it’s a must! Have a great weekend!
Good Mornin! Good Mornin! Good Mornin to You! Remember the song?
It is a bright sunshiny day here in Southern California with temperatures in the high 70’s , low 80’s….a little warm yet not to bad! The best to you and Joe as you set forth on yet another adventure! I will be praying that your speech at Stillmeadow goes well and that you have a delightful time touring the area and mingling with Gladys Taber friends! Thanks for the photos and what you shared about your Dad-Jack or otherwise known as Blog Daddy. Happy Father’s Day Jack…..hoping you read this blog and all the comments celebrating your “Dadship” and Dads in general! My Dad passed away 12 years ago on Father’s Day a month after he had retired at the age of 78 and my most favorite uncle who hailed from Edna Valley in San Luis Obispo just recently passed away at age 97 after years of being first a cattle rancher and then an avocado farmer. (Maybe you have heard of Haas Righetti Avocados? The best by far!….never fear they are still available in the markets and the SLO Farmers’ Markets in downtown SLO and over by Madonna Inn on Saturdays…..for my cousins still run the Righetti Avocado Farm.) Both left legacys behind and will be remembered for years to come! So we salute all Dads then and now! 🙂 So while Vanna and the kitties have fun in Martha’s Vineyard in your absence enjoy the Connecticut countryside and take plenty of postcard perfect photos! 🙂
Fathers are just the best! Whether they are by birth or by the position they take in ones life. They seem to make everything alright, when the world shifts and turns life upside down. They are always there with the best hugs and the right words to let you see that it will all be better soon.
Well, Susan, while you are clearing your throat and calming your nerves to present on this special occasion that has marked calendars for some time now, I am going to share a poignant story for your later that I think will touch and be appreciated. This Christmas, it will be 5 years since I lost my Daddy to cancer. Not enough space here to share all the wonderful about him, but he came from Italy on the boat with his parents and 2 sisters when he was 17. His was a self built life as he went on to eventually become a well respected Contractor. I live in the last home he built before he retired! 🙂 While owning his own company for many years, he employed a man who had just come from Greece with his wife and 2 young sons. Dad did not need another worker at the time, but seeing the need, he took him on. George went on to become my Dad’s right hand man. During the while, Dad helped him to build a home for his family, we shared social times, and took them to the Cape on vacation with us, etc. Eventually, George went out on his own. Time passed and though they kept in touch, distance grew as it often does with the demands of life. Fast forward to 6 years ago when my Mom was rushed to the hospital in the middle of a winter’s night with a heart attack – it was the beginning of a long year of struggle before we lost her that Thanksgiving, but the most incredible thing happened on this night. After she was worked on and her life saved, a young Cardiologist emerged to see our family. He had tears in his eyes which caused immediate unsettle in my Dad, my brother, my sister and I. He thankfully announced that Mom was o’k and went on to explain what had happened. When finished he said, “You may not remember me but I am George’s son, Demitri.” It was a moment of disbelief! He turned to my Dad and they hugged while crying. We were all crying! Here was one of George’s young sons who went on to become a Cardiologist and he just saved my Mom’s life.! We all remembered him as a young boy and here he was with us at this dire time. He spent a good deal of time talking with us – at one point saying thank you to my Dad – that he could never have become what he has had my Dad not given his Dad a chance when they got here to America. This event was the seed to an eventual and beautiful reunion of families. This is what a true silver lining looks like . Demitri stayed close and attentive to us the entire year following through Mom’s illness and eventually Dad’s. There were days while in the hospital, all Dad wanted was to see Demitri – even though he was not his Doctor. He always made time for my parents and would even call me and my siblings just to see how we were all doing during the most difficult 2 year period of my parents illnesses and passings. There is no amount of gratitude that we could give or express for that – but I know for him, it fell into the category of “giving back”.
On the day of my Dad’s wake, a sight I/we will never forget, is when George came in… with his wife and 2 young sons and stood in front of my Dad’s casket.
Life came full circle in a way I have never experienced before. It took my breathe away. In that moment, it was clear what my Daddy was all about. I know this story, though is condensed form, has still taken up space, but it’s one that sits boldy upon my heart and is too precious to not share at a time like this as we honor our Fathers. We may not always know what may bloom from our seeds of kindness, but sometimes we are truly blessed to find to out.
Tears, smiles, memories, and excitement are the emotions stirred up by this blog……..you are amazing and I’m anxious to meet you tomorrow……………I’ll be starting out early in the a.m. to get there (don’t like to travel on Friday the 13th)………soooooo excited!!
Happy Fathers Day dear Blog Daddy!… you are adorable dancing together!!!… and dear Susan, I think you had a pencil in your mouth when you were a baby because you already wanted to draw and write so badly!… like being born with a silver spoon in your mouth you know?… well, you got a pencil!… and look at you now!… hope you are enjoying traveling in the van once more… have FUN FUN FUN at the Gladys Taber affair… wish I was there… sending love to ALL daddys everywhere for a Happy Fathers Day… and to my own daddy in Heaven too!… xoxo Julie Marie
Enjoy your time in CT, no need to practice your speech you are a natural!
Your father is a great example to follow in your life and my three boys have a great example to follow in their life. 🙂 Happy father’s day to all.
Hi Susan and Happy Father’s Day Blog Daddy!
Like so many others, my daddy is in heaven. I miss him so much as I was such a daddy’s girl my whole life. He was my anchor. After he died my mom gave me a letter he wrote to me as I was going through my divorce…ever my anchor even as he was dying. We had this joke between us that he started when I was a little girl away at camp. He would write me everyday and call it “dropping me a line”.
.
.
.
—————————————
a line
I still have all those very old camp letters as well as every letter and card he ever wrote me. He will be gone 12 years in September and I have never missed anyone so much. A good dad is truly a most wonderful gift!
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY to your dad Susan. You are truly blessed to have him with you. I LOVE your post about him and his hands picture. I feel we are kindred spirits: you and me. We have so much in common, for the HUGE exception that I’m not a talented artist like yourself. 🙂 Thanks so much for sharing your talents with us and bringing such joy in to thousands of homes every time you blog…..Have a great time at the Gladys Tabor reunion. I joined and just received my first newsletter. Thanks for introducing her to me.
Thanks for sharing your wonderful dad!!! Happy fathers day!!
Happy Anniversary on your wonderful blog! I am pretty new to it, so whenever I get a chance to read the older posts I am totally delighted! My sister and best friend got me started. She is so smart! Thank you Susan and Joe!
Wish I was there….. I am reading Gladys Taber’s “Especially Father” at the moment. Just so happens it coincides with the celebration there at Stillmeadow AND Father’s Day. What a great book! Have a wonderful time, Susan. Know your “speech” will be fabulous. 🙂
Anne, Gladys’ granddaughter, told me that Especially Father was her favorite. It was also the only one of Gladys’ books to make the bestseller list. I loved it too.
Susan,
We all want to hear about Gladys’ family that you were able to meet. I read the month by month chapters in the Stillmeadow book, never going ahead to the next month. I feel as if I were born in the wrong era, I must use technology at work and love my laptop of course, but the world is not as quiet as it was in Gladys’ era. There was tension about the war, as there is today, but the refinement of the time is so beautiful and I want to live there!!!
I can’t wait to tell you “the rest of the story!” 🙂 Tomorrow!
Well, I know why you had a pencil in your mouth in that picture; it was a sure sign of things to come. You were obviously born to paint and write your beautiful books. 🙂
Hello and Good morning Susan and Hello to al the girlfriends. Happy Father’s Day to all the Daddys and especially to Blog Daddy. Susan have a wonderful time at Stillmeadow, and just don’t forget to open that suitcase, its getting crowded in here already. okay who let in the stuffed critters??? still busy with hatching out the ducklings, numbers 3 and 4 have arrived safely and are doing fine, they arrived yesterday morning and last night. waiting on 5 and 6 to get here. ouch who let the cats in here??? Happy Friday the 13th everyone, and look for the full moon tonight. have a great day and a great weekend everyone. hugs….. 🙂
It occurs to me what we all probably really have in common. Dad’s that made homes for their families. Dad’s that were present! Reading about your Dad so reminded me of mine. My Dad could make anything, and he had a soft spot that he didn’t let too many people see and boy could he whistle. He could whistle anything. I could not whistle and he laughed at my trying. I’ll just bet almost all your girlfriends have had great Dads!
Please tell us every little detail of Gladys house. I’ve read three of her books now and would love to see her house. Is it a museum? Does a family member still own it?
I’ll write about it . . . its still a very real house.
Ann told us they were heartbroken to have to sell Still Cove (for financial reasons), the Cape Cod house, but between the two, they just HAD to keep Stillmeadow. She said the second owner since they sold it is trying to restore it and opens it to FOGT (I’m not sure if that’s anytime, or only on special occasions.) The new owner is a FOGT herself. 🙂
I’ve heard such nice things about the owners of Still Cove.
Have a wonderful time! Can’t wait to see the pictures!
“Happy Fathers Day” to every Father & Daddy out there and to my Dad who
I have carried in my pocket close to my heart for 65 years keeping him close I Love you Dad!
So lovely to remember your dad on Father’s Day. I still miss my dad and just hearing his voice over the phone. These connections are just forever, aren’t they?
Hello Susan,..Happy Fathers Day to Blog Daddy and All the Daddy,s you can still hug. My Daddy is in heaven many, many years ago and I still miss him. My children’s Daddy is in heaven also. So to all you lucky ones “big hugs” on Fathers Day. Thanks for another trip with You and Joe. Love your Dad’s Hat!
Happy Father’s Day blog daddy! And Susan, what is that deliciousness in those glasses? Something in the summer book? It’s a beautiful sunny day here in Southern Colorado – and will be a hot one. My garden is looking pretty darn good right now if I do say so myself. I even had a woman stop and get out of her car to take a picture of my front yard last week. Now, that is really a compliment. Have a great time tomorrow, and as always, thanks for the inspiration you give to all of us.
Laughing at your brother’s song – can’t wait to hear all of the words.
Susan, you’ll never know how much your blog meant to me this past year and a half – I didn’t comment much, as I was going through cancer surgery, then chemo, then radiation – but just reading it every day gave me such hope and joy – all the beautiful photos – and of course, savoring your A Fine Romance. I am doing fine, even though I lost two dear friends within 4 months of each other, to breast cancer early this year. Life is wonderful and so are you. Thank you for being the special, talented, giving person you are – and to all the other precious “friends” out there!
Keep on keepin’ on Lori, you are coming through. Your can-do attitude is wonderful! xoxo with love.
BLOG DADDY..YOU ARE AN AMAZING GUY ! HAPPY FATHER’S DAY !
Happy Father’s Day Blog Daddy Jack! Yes, fathers are a true blessing. One year my dad left his house (while the Master’s was on TV) (and my dad is a HUGE golf fan) (and this was before DVR’s! ) to come over to my house to re-hang shelves that he had previously hung for me in another room. Dad’s are truly the best 🙂
There is a message for each of us in your blogs. Brings to surface memories of our Dads for each of us. They had a way and traditions that live on. Hope you have a great day to celebrate and acknowledge.
Sewwwwww many wonderful aspects of life you are sharing. Thank you!!!
Susan ~ You are always the bright spot in my life. I had wanted to see you in Connecticut this weekend ~ a wish after being a fan for many many years ~ plus you introduced me to Gladys Taber. Two of my favorites in one spot ~ what a dream come true. Unfortunately, when I thought I would try to make it to the convention, in the back of my mind I said, “No ~ you may be needed at home this year”. So true. Sadly, we are waiting in grief as my mother is about to pass away. We lost my father last September. It is just “that time in my life” right now. Enough of that though. I am so glad you waited a bit longer for your drawing. I am quilter and have already made a lovely little gardening rabbit quilt out of some of your fabrics of a few years back. [I will mail you a picture]. It would be wonderful to have my name drawn for a sweet fabric bundle for yet another quilt. We now have our first grandchild ~ who is 10 weeks old today. His name is Jack. [Jackson Andrew Lauman] I will make Jack his 2nd quilt [he already has a little one on his crib] out of your fabrics. I seem to be just rambling right now ~ wish I could just “sit and visit” in person. Reading your blog makes it seem so from afar … from Ridgefield, Washington … with Love, Kathleen
Susan, your Musica always makes me smile. Always so appropriate and what I am happy to hear. You’re surely the sunshine on this thundery afternoon in SE Pennsylvania. Thank you!
You bring sunshine t our days, Susan. Thank you!
Happy Father’s day to your dad. It’s been quite a while since my father passed away, but it seems that each Father’s Day brings back a flood of memories.
I’m envious of your visit to Gladys’ home. I have enjoyed her works for years and find when I’m feeling a little stressed rereading her books brings me back to a simpler and quieter time. Enjoy your travels and I’m sure that those folks who are fortunate enough to hear you will be as happy and grateful as we all are to have you.
Dear Susan and Joe,
So sorry that your road trip is being rained on . Hope that your special day at Stillmeadow will have blue skies and sunshine. Loved the Tennessee Waltz by Patsy Kline and just about anyone else who has sung it. What a sweet loving tribute to your father, with the picture that says it all. Happy Fathers Day “Blog Daddy Jack” and thank you for the gift of this wonderful daughter you raised that we get to enjoy. Yes, I would love your brother to UTUBE his song. Maybe we could get up a petition from all the “Girlfriends” requesting it. Can’t believe that Vanna would take advantage of your absence like that. Shame shame!!! She’s a mischief maker. I’m sure you will set her straight when you get home. Hope that she is at least giving Jack and Girl Kitty plenty of attention. I hope that she is not reading this so it won’t affect the drawing negatively for me. I’m sure that the picture of you with your dad and the pencil were a foreshadowing of your future as Blogger and the writer of the many Journals, books etc…that would be in your future.
A father is such an important influence in their childrens life and affects how they look at life in so many ways. Hats off to all those dads that did and do all the hard work of being a good mentor and good example for their children. So happy that my daughter was blessed with that. I do miss my dad and his wonderful sense of humor.
The Ringo Starr concert was excellent last night. He was slim trim and full of energy. He said that he and his group only get together and tour in the summer. His keyboardist was from the group Santana, one guitarist was from the group Toto, another from Mister Mister. There were two drummers, one keyboardist, three guitarists and a saxophone player. They performed together and performed individually. Each one was so good that they could have each been a headliner. They played songs by the Beatles , Toto, Santana and some of their own composing. So good!
I have a suggestion for some additional tea flavors for you. When we lived in Germany I bought a tea in a Tee Laden(Tea Shop) called Erdbeer Sahne (Strawberry Cream) that is so delicious. I have not seen it here at all but maybe your tea blenders would be familiar with it or could create something like it. Another tea I bought at the Empress Hotel in Vancouver and it was a Maple flavor but I have not seen it here either. It was also delicious.
Hope that you and Joe have a wonderful weekend and a safe trip home. XOXOXO
Happy Fathers Day daddy Jack! You may or may not remember I never knew my father, so I share Jack 🙂 Hope your day is wonderful and you get lots of pork chops! Enjoy your shirts! (I cracked part of your code- we use “lop” language for code- it’s fun). Happy Daddy’s day everyone!
Oh my goodness …….
the material just took my breath ….. SO much lovely goodness :0)
Thank You for this Spectacular giveaway ……
dare to dream :0)
Thank you Susan for all the Father’s Day memories. I lost my dear daddy when I was a young mother. I miss his warm hugs and loving smile. He loved his girls, my sister and me. Happy father’s day to all the dad’s that are in our
lives and the ones that are in our hearts that are no longer here. Have fun with your book signing.
Patsy Cline was from my hope state of Virginia. Winchester, Virginia
I so enjoy your blog and books. I think I have all of them. A Fine Romance is such a treasure. You write so conversationally. Like you know all of us “girlfriends”. So charming. I have bought a few of your books to give to a favorite cousin, who in turn has loaned them to one of her other cousins. I enjoy a “cuppa” while reading. Adorable.
Happy Father’s Day.
Love how you truly love your family and friends.
Blessed.♥
Dads are great inventions, aren’t they? Whether we’ve had them way too short a time or are lucky to have them mega-years, the memories they make for us, the intangible gifts they give us, never fade from our lives. With my dad long gone, it’s now fun to see my son as a father, a very, very good father who impresses me to no end.
Happy Father’s day to all the Dads we loves and loved so much. My Dad died a long time ago in 1992 and I’ll do miss him still as I do my husband.
Happy Father’s day also to Blog Daddy and have a nice weekend.
Good luck with your speech Susan.
greetings from the Netherlands,
Trudy
Why is my comment still awaiting moderation?
Hope your speech did go well and you have had a nice day today.
greetings ,Trudy from the Netherlands
I’m the one that does the moderation Trudy … and I’ve been away from the computer, but things should get back to normal by tomorrow — there are over 300 comments waiting now, and I’m trying to get some of them done before we have to leave Connecticut this morning to drive back to the ferry.
oh, my goodness!!!! of all things…the tennesse-waltz…I remember going around the house singing that as a child…..off-key, but enthusiastically. the pic of you & your dad truly reminds me of me & my dad…always an elegant dancer he was. as for me…I flew thru the air during many a polka….not elegant, but tons-of-fun!!!!! also, a big-hug for our son…..our hearts do soar when his little ones call him “papa”……for all the grandmas out there….you know what I mean!!!! have a WONDERFUL weekend, Susan, Joe, Blog-daddy and all !!!!!!
How lucky are all the Girlfriends who’ll be at Stillmeadow tomorrow? I predict an SRO crowd – can’t wait to see photos & hear details. Hope you have fine weather! And a very very Happy Father’s Day to Jack and to ALL our fathers. God bless all Poppas everywhere – wherever they may be, our hearts are with them and theirs are with us, I know… ❤️
My father passed when I was four years old.. I’ve always wondered how my life would have differed had he lived. Y’all have no idea how lucky you are.. as there are many of us.. who would gladly trade to have spent just a bit more time..
Happy Father’s Day to all! 🙂
Your blogs are like a hug from a dear friend! Can’t wait to hear about your time at Stillmeadow.
Dear Susan, Sometimes life throws you rotten apples and sometimes it throws you sunshine and everything that makes your senses brighten up and smile:) I was on to you from the very beginning and have all your calendars and books from your first creations. Can’t tell you how happy your artistry booth in books, art, calendars etc. have made me. I wish you all the happiness that you work so hard to bring all of us. Hope you have a happy Father’s Day.
Dear Susan, Since the very beginning of your story I was grabbing your calendas, books, anything (love your color palette) and ofcourse, “A Fine Romance” which changed my life! Yes, I am now a real tea drinker. Have had the good sense to save all your calendars and books since the beginning because I knew how special your style and the joy you share was. Hope you and yours receive as much happiness and smiles you bring to all of us. Happy Father’s Day!
Both Mother’s and Father’s Days are bittersweet now that I’m (a bit beyond) middle-age and no longer have my parents here with me. It is amazing, though, how often something comes up that reminds me of what they did or said. Or, as I do or say something, I know it’s b/c of how I was brought up. I’m sure they realize how dear they’ll always be to me. So glad, Susan, that you’re appreciating your family while you can. ♥ Alice
Happy Father’s Day to All the dad’s still here with us and All the other Dad’s who are now a sweet memory on our timeline. Susan, waiting with baited breath to hear and see all you are experiencing this weekend at the FOGT Reunion. That’s going to be some blog! NJ hugs………:-D
Thank you for more smiles in my heart today. I pictured my dad right along with you describing yours. Truly we are Blessed.
Dear Susan, Since your earliest works I have been thrilled to be a part of your generous gifts to us. I have all your calendars, books, and of course “A Fine Romance” which changed my life. Yes, I am a real tea drinker now! Strainers, special blends of loose tea, adorable tea pot. I’m hooked. But most of all, I am so happy that you are finally receiving the success that you deserve. You bring a smile to my face when life can sometimes be tough. Thanks for sharing your considerable artistry with all of us. p.s. ever listen to the sound track of Miss Potter, the movie? It’s beautiful. Happy Father’s day!
Miss my father every day. Whether I skinned my knee or went through a rough place in my life he would pat me on the back and tell me, “It will be all right”. Those words have been such a comfort to me.
Like you, I am blessed to have my father still with me. Happy Fathers Day to Blog Daddy and to my Daddy and to all the daddies out there. I am very grateful to my father for instilling in me a love of the written word and music of all kinds. I have lovely memories of us playing the clarinet together. Stranger on the Shore always makes me think of my dad. I can also still hear his voice in my head reading to me at a very young age and making all the voices of the different characters. He’s French and all the characters of my early childhood books had French accents and still do! He taught me the value of laughter and of tears, and he’s always been my biggest fan. He calls me the apple of his eye. I am sure he calls the others that too, but when he says it to me, I AM the apple of his eye!
Have a lovely time at the Gladys Taber event! I know you’ve been waiting a while for this. Thanks for taking us all with you!!
Happy Father’s Day to your Dad!!! I broke your code!! Please enter me in the giveaway if it’s not too late! Thanks Susan!!!
Miss my dad so much…but having Blog Daddy around reminds me of him so much. He could fix and build things too. Also spent time in Cottonwood living with his Aunt as a young man (early 20’s) working in the copper mines during off season (baseball player). Had him for 96 years so I feel blessed!
I am loving these wonderful tributes to beloved dads. It’s the best!
Happy Father’s Day to Blog Daddy and the fathers of all the girlfriends! I’d like to share a quote, if I may… “Daddy, I may find my Prince but you will always be my “King!”
Hah! hope we get to find out what the t-shirt has on the front that makes it special (besides who it’s for) AFTER J-Daddy gets it in the mail 🙂 Code-breakers unite! If your daddy doesn’t shed a little tear after reading that lovely tribute to him….well, I guess you COULD write it over again in ‘family code’…..thanks for making me smile (again), as always ♥
Lovely bog post, Sue. Your dad sounds like a real charmer. The sort of dad every one wants. I’m an only child and my dad was home most times, but he was always somewhat aloof as I think most dads were in the 40s and 50s. Both my sons, who are dads, are always doing something with the kids: camping, going to the beach, some kind of sport thing, and giving all the encouragement needed to build their boys into strong, helpful adults. Here’s to dads wherever, Happy Happy Father’s Day.
It’s a COLORING pencil in your mouth.. a sign of great things to come..!
Dear dear dads..Wish I still had mine too.
Then you are someone’s princess:)
Oh Susan, how I have missed you. I have been so busy, I have not had a chance to read your Blog for so long. Just read a little, I’ll be back with a POT of Tea and catch up soon. Have a great day tomorrow! And Happy Father’s day to all the Dads out there. My Mom was Both to me! I’ll be calling her Sunday to let her know she did a wonderful job!
Brings back memories of my own Dad — he was a Navy man from WWII, and sang “White Christmas” in a way NEVER heard, before or since! And I have inherited his unique “singing range!” But I wouldn’t trade it for the world! Hugs to your Blog Daddy in memory of mine. Also, ask your brother to PLEASE U-Tube his song about being lonesome in his saddle since his horse died. I think a lot of folks would love to hear it — or at least see the lyrics written down. Sounds like fun! Wishing you a safe drive home…
Your blog makes me miss my Daddy soooo much! I have been without him since 1999 and I still miss him every single day. We started a tradition before he died that every time I found a penny he was thinking of me. To this day, I never find a penny without looking up to heaven and saying “Hey, Daddy.” Thanks for your sweet thoughts about your own sweet Daddy. 🙂
My heart always goes pitter patter when I open my email and find your name there. I will always open your mail first!!! Thank you for being who you are!!
Happy Father’s Day to your dad and everyone ‘s dad! Wish my dad was still here. I miss him so much. Susan, I’ve been thinking of you and Joe driving in this torrential rain. Welcome to Connecticut! We flew in yesterday from Knoxville and we’re staying at the family cottage near Avon. This afternoon I prepped for tomorrow and had a manicure/pedicure. Can’t wait!
I
Wow– thank you (tharfank yarfoo arfall) all …..you’ll give a GREAT talk Sue , so let it roll
and enjoy the moment.
And to all the girlfriends , grab something and give it a big hug like it was your Dad for
Fathers day ! BD
Dad, I loved it. I’ll call you today. Waiting for time difference to catch up! xoxo
Looking forward until tomorrow in Danbury.. I’ve looking forward to this for a while now.
Lovely blog as usual…..you are such an inspiration….Enjoy your new experiences and treasurer the older ones ……
Happy Father’s Day to Blog Daddy and all Dads. Enjoy your time at Stillmeadow. I am so excited to hear all about it.
Dear Susan, I had the good fortune years ago, on a business trip to New England, to take time to look for and find Stillmeadow – – and Gladys’s son-in-law was there. He was kind enough to let me in and walk around. I couldn’t believe I was really there. If ever there was a time that I wished time could go backwards, and have Gladys there with me to share tea and conversation, this was it. In the early ’70s, she and I had talked a few times on the phone and had exchanged notes by mail. Be sure to feel me there in spirit tomorrow, and have a wonderful time. Hugs fom Minnesota, Ruthie
Happy Father’s Day, Blog Daddy, and all the other Daddies, too! I just spent this rainy afternoon watching reruns of The Andy Griffith show on Netflix. Barney with his one bullet is still hilarious after all these years. I sometimes wish we could go back to those days of Mayberry (if they ever existed), but my kids always remind me that those days were not good for all groups of people.
Happy Father’s Day to your Dad and all the Dad’s out there. I never got to meet my Dad as he died a few months before I was born. I do enjoy hearing stories about everyone’s Dad.
Enjoy your day at Stillmeadow.
I was a “daddy’s girl” too! Very special memories! Enjoy your Gladys Taber day!
Hello and a very Happy Fathers Day to you and my compliment on your beautiful blog. I am hoping I am not too late to be considered as a participant in your current giveaway contest?
I would dearly love to have the quilt!!! I’m afraid I’m rather behind the times with blogging. This is my first attempt at it. I just got an iPad Air and I’m just learning how to use it! I must confess I didn’t know you were designing fabric for home sewers! It’s adorable!! By the way, I myself just completed a college level watercolor class and I couldn’t help noticing the paintbox that you use. What Brand is that? The only product that I’m familiar with is Windsor Newton. Where do you buy your paint from? WN is sooooo $$$$$, I wouldn’t mind trying out something perhaps a tad less pricey. Thank you So much for creating that gorgeous new book of yours, A Fine Romance! When I first received it, I didn’t want to put it down! I also loved the references to your website for further info! Genius!!! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication! It truly shows.
Best wishes,
Lauri Hyde
If you look at the top of the Blog you’ll see something that says ABOUT ME … a drop-down will come up, look at “My Art Studio” … it tells about what I use. But mostly I just buy whatever I see that I like. I have lots of different paint boxes (even children’s) as well as watercolors in tubes.
From reading above I see that we were all blessed with wonderful fathers. My Daddy has been gone for 49 years now but I remember him as it was yesterday that I last saw him. I miss him so much all these years and think of him often. How proud he would be off the whole family. Happy Father’s day to Daddy and all the good fathers of the world.
Enjoy your venture at Gladys Taber home. I will be awaiting all the details when you return home.
A lovely tribute to your lovely Blog Daddy, Susan. And guess what – I know why you had a pencil in your mouth. You were already thinking of all the wonderful writing and drawing you would be doing in the future!
Tasha in sunny Wonderful Warwickshire
Thanks for the glimpse.
I married a man, who loves his children almost as much as he loves his wife. He loves his wife almost as much as he loves God. He tries so hard to be gentle, patient, kind, and loving like Jesus, while inviting those he loves to join him in that journey. He’s opposed to force of any kind (even with the dog.) He teaches through long suffering and example. I’ve learned I married a most amazing man. Maybe his children will write things about him like you wrote about hour dad.
Bless you and your daddy. Blog daddy to us. Mine has been gone since 1977. I was a daddy’s girl and always will be. I am so glad you still have yours and willing to share him with the rest of us. Thank you bunny bunches for your generous heart in so many areas. Happy Gladys Taber Day to you and Joe. I know it will be a fabulous one. All the girlfriends will be looking forward to seeing the best pictures.
Much love and bunny hugs,
Shirley
Lovely post. I grew up in foster care and was never close to either parent which made/makes for some sad feelings on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day BUT your posts, the nostalgia and imagery you create soothes me and fills the hollow places, PLUS this Father’s Day my son is a father for the first time just arriving back from deployment a week before Alexander William arrived. Blessings.
Of COURSE you had a pencil in your mouth! That’s foreshadowing ( and I was an English teacher , so I would know! ) for your future as an artist and author. We would love to hear your brother’s song. Do twist his arm a bit more. Hope you have an absolutely fabulous time at Stillmeadow! I’mawee bit envious, but I know we’ll get to hear all about it, and I’m looking forward to that. An article I read in the FOGT newsletter led me to think that GT’s daughter is now residing at Stillmeadow. Do you know if this is so?
It’s her granddaughter Anne — we met her on Friday … couldn’t have been nicer, we loved it. Her mom, Connie, Gladys’ daughter, isn’t well and lives somewhere down south now — will show more on Monday.