Today we’re going to mix it up, a snow walk and a garden give-away all in the same post! MUSICA for slow dancing, Girlfriends. . .
Yesterday, for the first time in weeks, maybe even months, we had 
a sunshiny, lovely 42º. We scrambled into our boots and RAN ourselves out the door, for the first walk in all of that time!!! Our lawn is still covered in snow, but it’s quietly beginning to melt making a continuous little river down our driveway, joining the slightly bigger river on the street, and heading down hill to the harbor. We weren’t sure what the dirt road that takes us out to the ocean would look like, but we were willing to try, especially when we saw what was going on in the maple tree outside the kitchen window:
The photo isn’t clear, but that’s OK, those orange spots are Robins! If this beautiful day is good enough for them, it’s good enough for us!
so here we go
. . . walking very gingerly . . . It was melting, like a slushy in some parts (the good parts) but there were long lumps of shiny wet ice, and some nice stretches of mud. . . We plot which direction we should fall in case we need to, realizing no one brought a phone, if he breaks his leg, he lays there while I “run” for help. It would be sad.
The birds were singing, Joe’s trying to figure out where the sound is coming from . . .
See him? Way up top in the middle of the picture? He looks white but he’s a goldfinch, he can’t clap his hands so he shows his happiness with song.
The goldfinch has a really nice view! When we walked out of the canopy of the woods, we had our first view of the pond ~ we could see it was still partially frozen . . .
But I have to say, despite how cold it looks, the warm sun on our faces felt as much like spring as breathing into a bouquet of daffodils! Off came my hat and gloves, unzipped goes the jacket. THAT’S how nice it was out there!
I’m always behind him . . . he waits, as the ever-patient guy that he is, hands on hips . . .
Can’t just walk right by this little red fisherman’s shack and not stop for a photo . . . crazy man.
See those broken square-looking things on the ground (talking mostly to the Californians and Floridians right now)? They are giant ice chips. When a car goes through a partly frozen puddle, the ice breaks up and scatters. That’s something you don’t see all the time. See how patient Joe is while I take pictures of them?
We made it to the water, and I have to tell you, it wasn’t easy…. First we had to go through the deep snow in the yard of our friend’s house, then across their deck . . .
And down that very furthest set of stairs ~ see it back there? After that, finding a high-ish tide, we had to climb over each rock-piled breakwater, maybe five of them . . . yes, you’re right, I know what you’re thinking, it was heaven out there. (BTW, while we’re away from home, we had our bedroom windows wide open (for the first time this year); the ceiling fan was on full blast blowing out winter air and exchanging it for fresh spring air, and we knew we were going to sleep like babies after our walk to the sea!)
We discovered that others had been there first.
And then, beach booty! Big piece of dark blue beach glass!
More ice chips. I kind of love them. Like to break them with my toe. Makes a good noise. Two nature things happened out there that I didn’t take pictures of: A.) (Pat, you should probably skip this part.) Because some rather large animal was dead. I didn’t look because in my accidental half-second glance I could see it was all elbows, knees and feathers and other less identifiable furry parts, and despite my well-known interest in science, this was really not my cup of tea. Joe looked, he decided it was a coyote AND a turkey, entwined together on the beach. Wow! We skirt by it, my eyes covered with my hat, and we fall immediately into Morning Science discussion: First off “are there coyotes on the island?” I didn’t think so. Otherwise I’ve been living in a fool’s paradise thinking we had no kitty-eaters on Martha’s Vineyard. So, let’s say it was a deer. A deer and a turkey? 
“They don’t fight, they don’t eat each other.” So then here’s what must have happened: That thing (whatever it is, but it can’t be a coyote) killed the turkey, then, sadly, but deservedly, choked on a bone, fell over and died on top of it. (I just realized, this is kind of like talking about Downton Abbey.)
Anyway, lovely leaves embalmed in ice. The other nature thing we saw was a pair of birds mating on the road. That was a first, I have never seen birds do that. As a scientist, I had never thought about what those little devils did when we left them alone. We thought they were dead at first, they weren’t moving at all, we didn’t even know there were two of them, till Joe looked closer to figure out which side was up, because this was one weird looking bird. More Morning Science ensued when all of a sudden, the girl escaped! OK, I did get a picture of the chase . . .
This is the little father, in hot pursuit! Ah, spring. Quite the adventure!
Tire tracks become puddles . . . Look around, where is the best place to put your foot? Safest would probably be IN the water.
Time to go home . . . so far we have 100% not fallen down!
And we manage to keep it that way! Usually our walk is 45 minutes, yesterday it was an hour and a half. That’s from making sure we didn’t break our necks.
Front row seat to the melting of the snow. (OMG, is he not the most adorable thing in the world?)
So we all know the snow will go . . .
And waiting for us, under all the ice are our little snow drops (these are from last year, this year’s crop is frozen stiff right now, but soon). Because, it’s coming, only another week until official . . .
And in honor of the moment, when we are all teetering on the verge of spring, I would love for one of you to enjoy my favorite garden book of all time . . .
It’s called Kitchen Gardens, an unassuming little book wonderfully written by Mary Mason Campbell with illustrations by Tasha Tudor.
But it’s by far the most inspiring garden book I’ve ever read. There are other books with much more detailed information, and definitely glossier pictures, but no book has ever moved me into the garden faster and happier than this one.
It was published in 1971 and I was lucky enough to happen upon it as my first garden book. “I love how Mary Campbell wrote about the “sunshine, fresh air, and privacy of our gardens. . .”
I thought I would sign this book for you and also add a watercolor bookmark (I’ve been cutting up the bits of paper I use for testing my pen or watercolors and making bookmarks out of them).
If you want to be entered for this giveaway, all you have to do is scroll to the bottom of this post and look for the tiny word “comments” — and leave a comment. Your comment can be just one word if you like; that will be enough to enter you for the drawing. For those of you who get my blog via email, you will have to go to www.162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ and scroll to the very bottom of this post and find that tiny word . . . “comments” ~ for some reason, they don’t seem to send a “comment” button in an emailed blog.
Last but not least. I told you I finished the new calendars for 2016? I thought I would give you a little preview . . . This is “October” for the wall-calendar, and don’t worry, there are pink 
pumpkins on the bottom part.♥ For thee, from me. ♥
Something else for thee: click on “shopping” at the top of the blog, scroll to the bottom of the column on the left, click on FREE STUFF! Spring-themed stationery, bookmarks, tags — and computer wallpaper!
And just one more thing I wanted to tell you: My (our, because I’m always thinking of you when I’m writing) new book is being edited even as we speak. That means the writing part is almost done, after that I’ll paint it and add the photos and hopefully we’ll have it in about six months, maybe by the time we make our first fires next autumn. I know the title. But I’m afraid to say it out loud yet. So let me get used to it, maybe next time! You’ll be the first to know!
Until we meet again . . . Love you, love us.♥ XOXO
P.S. Don’t forget . . . St. Patrick’s Day is coming!
What a great walk! (except for the dead things…) We’re all waiting with bated breath for SPRING! I’ve pruned my 60 or so roses & the daffodils are poking out their cheerful heads now here in coastal NC. I did see snow this winter- look at my Facebook page for snow & daffodils if you’d like. I know soon I can take my poor plants out of hibernation in the garage & they will revive. Before I know it, I’ll be complaining about the heat!
As Rosanna Rosanna Dana said so eloquently, “There’s always something.”
Susan, the thanks I feel in finding in you and all those that share the wonder in your art & words, in our own art & words, is hard to put into words. I have laughed out loud, trickled tears and been coaxed and encouraged to continue on in my own creative endeavors by your words, here and in ‘A Fine Romance.’ Many many heart felt Thankies girlie! And keep up the good work :0)
Your comment makes me go wordless, just little sighing sounds, and I can’t spell them!
I always enjoy your blog! Thanks for the winter walk with you and for sharing nature along the way.
I found you last fall when I read A FINE ROMANCE. Loved it and now
am playing catch-up buying off your website. Michigan is thawing
also–into the 40’s with lots of sunshine. We are done hibernating.
Look forward to your new book. I am sure it will be wonderful. I have
managed to find and collect most of the out-of-print ones of yours.
They are filled with inspiration and joy. Please put my name in your jar for Vanna.
Thank you.
I will do that Connie!
I wish I was you. Lovely lovely lovely
Actually, you probably are.
P.S. I took ‘AFR’ with me to the auto mechanic, and while they diagnosticated my dying car (sad-tragic-I Luv my car, her name is Esther), I began reading for the fourth time. Off to bed I go, book under arm cuppa in other…off off off to England I go…
xoxo love that !
May spring be right around the corner for ya’ll on the right coast. And what exciting news about your book. I don’t know enough about writing but I can’t imagine why you would need an editor because you are such a talent. But I guess we will have to be patient. As you always say “anticipation” but oh my goodness I can’ t bear the wait. Lol
Hi Susan,
Love reading your blog. I live in the state of Washington, and this year we haven’t had much of a Winter. When the sun started shining last week, I put away my snowman collection, and decorated the entire house for Spring. I love the pastel colors, the flowers, bunnies, eggs, and all the candles that I put in every room. I can’t wait to get outside to start the clean-up, and begin planting. Count me in on the book give away!!! Take care. Hugs to Jack and Girl.
Do you think anyone can plant a garden? I never learned and feel so out of my element. I have a little patch in front. I ‘ m going to try some basil ( my favorite). It will be so cool! Thanks for the inspiration Susan.
ANYONE! Just start small. Three herbs that you like. And maybe some lettuce (leaf lettuce, you pick one leaf at a time and leave the rest growing). You’ll be surprised how it makes you feel to “harvest” something for your dinner. Chives are a really good plant because they come back every year! Just dig a little hole, stick the plant in and water it. There’s a lot more, but for now, it’s all you probably need.
Would love this book – and one of your most gorgeous painted bookmarks! Ahhhh!
My beautiful copy of “A Secret Garden” with illustrations by the amazing Tasha Tudor was a 10th birthday gift from my parents and is still one of my cherished books many decades later.
Thanks for the nature walk. I’m impressed you got the shot of the frenzied bird!
Yes, I didn’t know it until I got home, and there he was, bright as a button, a man on a mission!
Another great blog entry, Susan, and it captured what is happening here in Saskatchewan … well, not the sea glass and not the goldfinch and robins, but the melting snow, the ice shards … that part is happening here too. Ah, spring …. dirty, sloppy, wonderful spring!
I will miss our Downton Abbey recaps. Until next year! Love to win the book!
It would be so nice to be the lucky one to win the lovely gardening book that you are sharing. (Actually, your scribbles and doodles for a bookmark would be a prize all by itself.) Spring makes us all hopeful!
I enjoyed your photos of your walk. Wow, what a winter you have had. Here in western Oregon we have had a very mild winter – no snow this winter. Crocus, daffodils, tulips, camillas, fruit trees and many other flowers are in full bloom – allergy season is early this year!
So nice to think of spring again! My yard definitely needs some tlc!
Thanks I adore an “almost” spring walk as well!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful art and blog! Would love to win a vintage garden book with Tasha Tudor’s work in it!
I enjoyed the calendar preview….sweet Jack with a band in his mouth. He is so very cute!
Hi dear Susan, I feel like I have missed you as I haven’t left a reply in awhile. Loved your new post starting with the lovely musica you selected. Your snow is soooo white and sparkly looking I guess it would coming from a Cali girl. Joe is so sweet and patient what a gem. I absolutely loved your October page, oh my goodness I can’t wait for the 2016 calendar!! Also was wondering if your dear sweet Blog Daddy was doing well? Well must go and check out your free goodies for us, I always change my computer screen with your new ones, love them. Thank you for those and thanks for the chance to win that wonderful garden book, heart going pitter patter over that one!! xoxoxoxo
He’s doing great! It’s not easy being 91, but he has all the spirit of an 18 year old. 🙂
So very glad to hear that!
Your page is so warm and inviting, it’s so good you’re here <3
Such a fun nature walk! Thanks for that! I love Tasha Tudor and have many of her books. Amazing illustrator.
It feels like Spring in Iowa also. Love having the open windows and fresh air in the house. Love having you as a girlfriend.
I feel the same way.
I am planting my very first garden this year. I am so excited! Would love a copy of this book. Love your blog & books.
Hello Susan, I just came home from a very long day at work, sat on the couch and read your lovely blog post. It softened my day and brought a smile to my face. You’ve also reminded me to “visit” with my Tasha Tudor books- haven’t had them out in awhile. And may I say that I am so very excited for your new book! 🙂
Love your blog…. I love: To Plant A Seed is a Hopeful Deed…
Love the new calendar page and so jealous of the snow!
Congratulations on finishing your first draft!! Hope the editing goes smoothly, but I imagine that’s old hat for you with so many books now. I’m trying to write myself, but haven’t been able to settle into it yet, so I have a lot of respect for the dedication you’ve given to your work. Happy Spring!
It’s harder than I knew it would be . . . writing a cookbook is easy! Because it’s recipes, not YOU talking all the time!
I loved taking a slippery stroll with you and Joe to see the ice chips and sea glass! I’m in Kansas and it was 75 degrees today, but I love the snow, so your blog helped extend the winter for me. I love the charming pose of Jack in the chair. He’s a ‘cracker’ as they say in England. Thanks for the preview of the calendar! I’m looking forward to the book! Thanks for all the sweetness you share, Susan. It makes me feel so happy.
What wonderful illustrations in that little book! And great bookmarks too 🙂
What a delightful walk in the fresh air!! But, I for one, am extremely thankful you didn’t fall. I am still doing Physical Therapy for my broken wrist and it is rather surprising how long it takes to get rid of all the pain. But, while I was waiting my turn, I overheard a woman making some appointments and trying to work them around DAILY trips on the ferry over to the city for radiation treatments. And she’s trying to hold down a job. Right then and there I decided I’d rather break any old limb instead of what she was going through. Counting my blessings today.
This is true, sometimes with a little recognition, it’s VERY easy to count our blessings. xoxo
Thanks Susan for the walk I needed the airing…The book with illustrations by Tasha Tudor is lovely…I still have my childrens books kept because she did the illustrations so precious to me….I would love to see your sea glass collection please post a picture with a new blue addition. I am happy you see signs of Spring winter is on its way finally and you deserve better weather Love to you, Joe, and the kitties…..
Ready for spring and the greening of the earth!!
This is a lovely book which I remember from times past but no longer have a copy of. (Ah, those prepositions at the ends of sentences!) I don’t comment often, but I love your blog so much. You put so much beauty into it and it is both a joy and a healing and an inspiration for many.
Your science lesson was way too funny! Thanks for being real and allowing us girls to see how life is lived in another person’s life. We’re all pretty much the same, aren’t we? Sad how we think we don’t fit in much of the time.
We are all so much alike, MUCH more in common than not . . . if the whole world concentrated on that part, things would be easier.
Looking forward to Spring and snowdrops!
thank you for taking me with you on your walk…. phew, I needed to get out! Feel so much better now.
Oh Susan! Isn’t Spring just Delish!
My heart gave an extra little “thump” when I saw your new post! thank you!
So enjoy your blog! So happy the spring is coming! Can’t wait to hear the “peepers” soon very soon!
Thank you for the lovely spring stuff! If you visit me on St. Patrick’s Day, I will make you scones in the shape of shamrocks and serve them with clotted cream and my sister’s homemade jam!
My mother-in-law gave me this book in 1971. We hadn’t been married long. I loved it, but have misplaced it over the years during many moves. Love Tasha Tudor as well!
i love to read your blog! You inspired me to work on a garden this Spring!
I love love love your blog! And would love love love to win Kitchen Gardens!
Susan,
Loved your walk in the melting snow. Glad you didn’t fall down.
Have a good week,
Mary Ann
I loved your writing and funny sense of humor! I felt like I was the third person walking along with you and Joe. I never knew about ‘ice chips’ either and now I learned something. I also loved the nature pics! Thanks!
Thanks for your wonderful blog….love you!
Thanks, Susan, for all your lovely spring inspiration!
“Silver white winters that melt into spring”………….do you recall what lyrics that’s from? Yes, “Sound of Music.” You & Joe are living it, Susan. Lucky you. While growing up in PA, I remember taking LONG walks home, after school let out, on winter days, when ice was breaking up into water. My mother didn’t worry about me, if I was late. She knew I was enjoying myself. Unlike today, when we worry about our children so much. I, like you, was fascinated by the science that surrounded me. Still am, only it’s more difficult to find seasonal changes in CA. The changes are somewhat harder to find in CA, BUT, they’re here. This time of year, if I listen closely, I can sometimes hear geese flying overhead, leaving southern living, to take up their spring/summer habitats north of here. Birds are gathering fuzzy things to build their nests with. And, oh, how wonderful to see your Robins in the nearby tree! Once, several years ago, bright & early in the morning, I opened up the drapes to observe our entire front yard covered with Robins. They were migrating. No upstanding Robin will live in our hot climate, but I was so thrilled that they’d rest & feed on our front yard. I had come to love Robins, while growing up in PA. As most of you know, Robins are the first sign of spring in cold climates.
And, your 2016 Oct. calendar, cat page, will go under glass, in my house, with a frame around it, up on my wall. LOVE it! Then I can view Jack & Girl when I want to. Love how you put one of those hair do dads in Jack’s mouth, on the calendar page. Your attention to detail is one of the things that makes your art so wonderful, Susan.
Did you happen to hear Lady GaGa sing a medley of “Sound of Music” songs, at the Academy of Awards? It was wonderful, although not as wonderful as Julie Andrews could sing it. All was good, then Lady GaGa lifted her arm to introduce Julie Andrews to the stage. Oops, put your arm down GaGa. Your tattoo is showing! YUK! The tattoo just doesn’t go with the songs. Will I ever get used to the younger generations body drawings? I think not. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
The feeling of spring is definitely in the air. The sun feels so warm as it shines in from the patio window with our kitty laying smack in the middle sunbathing. We buy dried stuffing from the store and put it outside on the step down from the patio window and the birds come and eat as they entertain our kitty. They are face to face with only the patio window separating them and just a joy to watch. Your first adventure sounded like fun as you visited the shore and got an award to bring home as a trophy. I need to venture out maybe tomorrow and do a walk around the house to see if there are any signs of spring green popping up to the sunshine. Can’t wait to see how your new magnolia tree is doing after getting thru the winter. Give thanks for the new season to begin.
Your artwork, kitties, Tasha Tudor, spring- time – hyacinths for my soul….
Loved going on your walk with you! We had beautifulness today- our daffodils are blooming! They smell divine! I cannot wait for the new book!
I enjoyed your winter walk today.
Thank you for sharing your walk with us. Everything is getting so nice and melty. We’ve actually had very little snow all winter here in MN and our snow is almost all gone!
What a treasure you found in that gorgeous, blue sea glass! Lucky girl!
If I’m as lucky to win the book, I’ll be thrilled. I probably feel about Tasha Tudor the way you do about Beatrix Potter. I love Beatrix too, but Tasha is one of my favorites. Tasha and you, actually. And I’m even more lucky that I actually get to TALK to you! 🙂 Have a great day and enjoy the melting!
And I can talk back!
Your posts are heaven. We’ve just driven 4,991 miles from Seattle back to Cape May, NJ to visit our children. So comforting to have you to come home to.
I’m glad I was waiting, but I wish I’d put the kettle on! xoxo
Ps
I’ve been reading a book to my first graders called “Out of the Ocean” and it’s all about treasures that wash up on the beach. We love it. No ocean here in the Midwest so it fascinates us. I squeaked shen I saw the blue glass treasure you found!
You sound like a wonderful teach, Jaime, just what the world most needs. xoxo
I loved hearing about your walk! So many interesting things. What a wonderful place to live.
Wonderful to enjoy your walk with you. It was a beautiful afternoon here as well–sunny and highs in the mid 50s. It is supposed to be in the 60s tomorrow. I am blessed with a sister that has given and taught me all the simple joys of life–old movies (Carey Grant and Katherine and Audrey Hepburn are my favorites), wonderful pots of tea, and wonderful books. She gave me my very first Susan Branch book and I’ve been hooked ever since. She also introduced me to Tasha Tudor and her wonderful simple pleasures and joys. We had the pleasure to meet her many years ago in Nashville and meeting you remains on our bucket lists. While I would cherish this book myself, if I am fortunate to win, this will be the perfect gift for my sister. Thank you again for sharing the beauty of your island and reminding us of the everyday beauty that surrounds us.
Your sister sounds wonderful, give her a hug for me — she is lucky to have you to love her so much!
That adorable book would be the perfect gift for my equally adorable 11 year old daughter who is a budding farmer, tending to her seedlings as we speak! She has had her own vegetable and flower garden for the past 2 summers and dreams of it all winter long ♡
I love her already!
Oh Susan, thank you for the lovely walk. We haven’t had any snow this winter at all. In fact, the cherry blossoms have been here for a couple of weeks now. What wonderful pictures of your snowy walk! Hoping spring comes for you soon. You’ve had such a long winter. Enjoy your messages to all of us so much. Many thanks.
Lovely post! 🙂
Oh how adventurous you two are…but I understand how that can feel…A nice day after a long winter in our Smallville house, can hardly keep us behind closed doors! Our spring weather has actually arrived here in Iowa! We’ve been in the 70s for the last few days! Of course that can all change in the blink of an eye! Love those little sheets of ice…they make such pretty..delicate sounds! Another absolutely amazing post!! Your giveaway is one I would love to win. Who doesn’t just love Tasha Tudors drawing…they can just make a book! Ten days till Spring! Yay!
The kiss of the sun for pardon, the song of the birds for mirth. One is nearer Gods heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth. I read that years ago while on a walk in my then neighborhood of Henderson, Nevada. Not a horrible place but I feel certain I’ll have much better luck at a garden here in Washington than I ever did in Nevada. I would be thrilled to win your charming garden book. Thank you for the opportunity.
I am glad you and Joe made it through your walk intact–wouldn’t want you breaking your drawing arm! Thank you for another wonderful post to brighten our day.
I’ve always wanted a Tasha Tudor illustrated book, I’d put it next to my fav., A Fine Romance!
oh Susan…so glad that you and Joe did not break your necks ! it is wonderful to get outside. we had 72 today, and it was magical ! so happy to see a post from you today as I’ve been wondering how all of you were, up in Martha’s !
your kitties are both adorable. Happy Spring !
Shades of Paul . . . “Martha’s” — if he only knew he started a mini trend!
I love, love, love Tasha Tudor’s art and anything about gardening is an added bonus. Thank you for a precious blog site. Your snow walk with your hubby is so beautiful.
THINK SPRING!!
Nice to see you have sun and robins! And, thanks for the chance to win such a lovely book.
living in south Texas, I found your post gorgeous but cold. I am glad to share it vicariously. I would love the garden book
Thanks for the walking “tour,” Susan.Looks like a different world from our visit this past July!
Thank you for your blog and pictures…..please include me in your giveaway….I loved the book illustrated….Englush looking cottage garden….I think of my mum…she was born in Harrow on the hill 1919…..we enjoyed having a spot of tea in the afternoon….
Thanks again….enjoy each day
Celeste Steinman
Loved the photo of Jack sitting on a chair by the door. What a sweetie. He looks like the greeter to your home. Good blog, as always, really enjoyed it. Keep your wellies by the back door for more walks. Stay well and warm.
enjoy your blog so much!
Oh I can’t wait for spring. Finally some nice weather…in the low 50s here in CT. I even saw 2 people in shorts! Can’t wait to fix up my little garden. I hope to win the little book
We are visiting in Connecticut at the moment, we are from the Virgin islands. I am enjoying these lovely snow covered walks. Love your blog!
I’d love to be included in your drawing – thank you!
just……thank you. I loved the robins, the walk, Joe’s beret , the ice chips, the snow, the ocean. blessings
I love your work, your blog, and have just finished the “first time through” A Fine Romance!!! Am so excited to learn that Tasha illustrated the book you just told us about. Am hopeful it might possibly still be in print!!! As an educator, I learned about Tasha Tudor’s work years ago and shared it with my students. I have most if not all of her books (I have known about) and several of her prints framed. A rare wonderment was getting to meet her here in Utah!!! Thanks for sending me off on a new venture of hunting for this gardening book!!!
just moved into a new little home and it needs gardens, inspiration would be great.what a sweet little treasure.thanks Susan for your cheerful blog… encouraging really.
Spring, spring, spring! I just bought 15 bags of gold foil wrapped chocolate coins, so I am ready to get busy next Tuesday. Can’t wait to see the new calendar!
A leprechaun in our midst!
Love those sunny, snowy photos. It must feel wonderful to get out in the fresh air and sunshine after such a cold and snow-filled winter. It’s great to live where the seasons are definite. So much to look forward to!
Such sweet illustrations by Tasha Tudor in the Kitchen Gardens book.
Looking forward to the publication of your new book:)
Happy Spring days.
Betty
Love the October picture! I get your calender every year and that’s just perfect, cats are so Halloween 🙂 I try to display my black cat, Moses, in the window around that time of year, hehe! Enjoy this beautiful weather!!
Shanon
Have just discovered you recently! Love your blogs and books and have found that we have SO much in common!
We are lucky because this is the land of kindred spirits!
Love your blog, your photos, your art, and Tasha Tudor! Thank you for the opportunity to win the garden book!
Oh my….Tasha Tudor is my favorite. I have each and every Victoria magazine that she was featured in. They say if you dream it, it will happen. Dreaming of winning!!!! Good luck one and all, and thanks so much Susan for the chance. XXX
Lovely,lovely book…….
Dear Susan,
I’m thrilled you were able to get out and about. Lovely pictures and lovely thoughts….hopes and dreams….Spring underneath the snow! I’ve kept an eye on your weather….I mean how couldn’t I—New England was the talk of all the weather this year!! You won! (I guess)
But now the ground will be saturated….feeding all the bulbs and sleeping flowers and grasses and ferns and trees….
The book will be incredible for the words came from your heart and the creation from your dreams…
xoxo
Joann
Ohhh, you know when writing, it’s hard to see the forest for the trees, I love your words. xoxo
I just know that I will win this time…this is my anniversary month. Married in 1971, book published in 1971 and I adore all things Tasha Tudor. Win, win, win 🙂
Love it when you take us on your walks…and all the fine science talk. Turkeys, Coyotes…or was it a deer…I could not look either, just too horrifying for words…but good science talk *smile*
Yes we are a regular information highway here! 🙂
Enjoyed going along with you and Joe on your “Spring” walk. Raleigh NC also had a good winter this year — temperatures lower than normal, even in the single digits on occasion. And snow (6″) that blanketed yards and stayed around for quite a number of days, which is unusual. I think we have had more teens and twenties at night than in recent years too. So everyone here is ready for Spring. Love your cozy house with Girl and Jack. We lost our two kitties this past year — KiKi from old age, and Tyler, who finally succombed to an enlarged heart. We found them both as abandoned kitties — pretty miraculous since there is 105 acres of mature hardwood forest next door. They were givers of so much Purr Therapy for may, many years. Keep a happy heart! As my mom used to say, ‘Contentment consists not in getting what we want, but in enjoying what we have.”
You need a new kitty Genie. You will be so surprised, after older cats (the wonderful loving comfy friends of our youth), they are a shock to the system in the best way possible!
My hubby, Alan, and I have been meeting with a lovely architect couple (she is a landscape architect and he is an architect) and we’ll be building a home on the 8 acres of mature hardwood forest land where we found KiKi and Ty. The house will be sure to have good windows for “kitty perching”. Of the assorted rooms in this new home, room in our hearts for more fur therapy will be there too. Thanks much for writing : )
How exciting Genie! Good luck with your project!
I believe it was Tasha Tudor’s illustrations in my long ago received edition of The Secret Garden (still in my one of my bookcases) that began my life-long delight in seeing, really seeing the life of a garden. The joy lingers – today it was a pale yellow pansy, so delicate. Thanks for taking us along on your walk. I could smell the chilly sunny air from here!
delightful!
Slainte, Susan, Joe and kitties! Soon we shall see rich colors of green.♥
So happy to read your post tonight after coming home from work. You make everything so “fun”. We are having lovely springlike weather this week. Last week in 30’s and this week in the !! Your art work for calender (October 2016 ) is beautiful…love all the little details. I can look at it over and over and see something else new. Hugs to everyone there in your sweet home….
Happy Spring days are on their way. Enter me in the drawing. Thanks!
This week is in the 50’s –somehow this jumped out of my sentence in last post…
Hi Susan!! I love all your seaside photos!Thanks for taking us along with you and Joe on your walk…wish I was REALLY there! 🙂 The shells and sea glass look like little treasures…do you do anything special with the sea glass? It is so pretty !
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We put them on windowsills and lintels here, always too irresistible with their colors and little story of being to leave on the beach!
Thank you for the beautiful walk into the woods and the reward of the ocean at the end! All viewed safely from our end. You and Joe took all the risks and we are very appreciative of your daring. I saw pictures from the Cape yesterday. They showed the most beautiful ice bergs right on the beach! It was magical. Almost like another planet. The gifts Mother Nature provides!
Glad we got to come along on your walk. Have you seen any of the big ice bergs they are showing off the cape?
Not really, but I’ve seen them on TV — it’s the ones falling off roofs in Boston that are a little scary, no one hurt, but cars crushed!!
I love the snowy walk. We went from snow a week ago to near 75 today. Flowers are blooming. I forward your blog to a friend who is an artist and lover of Downton Abbey. She also loves you cat so she will enjoy the photo of him today.
Beautiful spring day here. I saw a flock of Sandhill cranes gliding in to a nearby field as they looked for a resting spot tonight. They are only passing through on their way to their home in the north. But what a delight to see them.
I can imagine!