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!
I have a new refrigerator that does not hold magnets…..so for the past 3 years I have used clear packaging tape to put your calendar on my fridge. That is the ONLY thing allowed on my refrigerator. Friends and family think I am crazy for putting tape on my HUGE beautiful fridge but as they can see, the calendar only makes it more beautiful!
I always look forward to your calendar and I buy it as a Christmas present to myself every year!
Just thought I would share my fridge problem and solution!
Christine L.
🙂 Like it!
Thank you so much for inviting us in on your walk. My husband ever patient is always waiting for me on our walks! The beach glass was a true treasure! Loved every minute of your walk!
As ever, a delightful walk with you and Joe. I looove Tasha Tudor as well as you, ME, Debbie Mumm, and Charles Wysocki! You bring such comfort and joy to your readers and make us feel like friends.
Yay spring is almost here!! I love your artwork !
Thank you for that wonderful walk in the snow. I will think of it this weekend in California when it is going to be over 90 degrees. I feel like winter didn’t arrive this year, we skipped right to summer!
I can’t wait to read your new book. My birthday is in October, I will love that month of your calendar with Jack and Girl Kitty. You drew them perfectly.
I love Tasha Tudor and old books. I would love to win that book.
I hope Spring arrives very soon for all of you who have endured a very long winter.
So glad you are thawing out!! Happy (almost) Spring!! Just the cover of this book makes me want to run as quick as I can to the garden! Think it’s time to start cleaning out the beds. 🙂
I really enjoy reading about your life on the Island and seeing your glorious photos and commentary. Happy Spring, Happy Everything!! 🙂
Thank you for the lovely walk through the ice chips, the wonderful pictures and the lessons of nature. I was happy to see you had posted yesterday, but I have been happily catching up reading your old posts. The months of March and April 2012 are especially wonderful. I sent the link to my daughter, so she could use some of the pictures and information in her homeschooling. Your blogs are packed with so much! Her little ones already know who you are. I sent the link to the Brick Chicken (so manly) to my son-in-law because I knew he would love making that recipe. My before-bed reading has now become cookbooks by SB and A Fine Romance.
The give-away book is beautiful and one that I would love to own. I really need some gardening tips. You are too generous! The weather in the SC Lowcountry is absolutely beautiful right now, so I know it’s coming your way soon. Have a happy week!
Hi Susan, oh my, you have had the snow this winter. Your walk must have felt good after being cooped up all winter, but you survived. Yea! We had 82 degree weather yesterday in sunny Fresno. I don’t think I am ready for heat yet.
It’s funny, in our part of the country we have to close up the house in the winter — my sister lives near Palm Springs, she has to close hers up in the Summer! Extremes!
I’m so glad you are able to get out for you walk to the beach again. Loved seeing it with snow and ice. Thanks for sharing it with us — even the gritty bits 🙁 The giveaway is really a sweet one. I would savor it for a while then pass it on to my daughter who grows a nice garden every year. My window box has been blooming with pansies all winter here and I have thyme and parsley fresh for my scrambled eggs in the morning. Just enough to take care of at this point. So happy it’s warming up on Martha’s.
That’s perfect! It’s amazing how little it really takes to bring such a good feeling . . . snips of fresh herbs is one of them!
Just discovered your blog and it is so charming. Snow has a way of slowing life down so one can enjoy the “little” joys of life. Time seems to slow down in the garden as well.
I so enjoyed this blog post with the walk in the snow ending at the sea. Glad you found some “beach booty” to make it all worth it! And also glad no one toppled over. Good you took it slow. What a fun give a way – the book and bookmark. Love gardening and Tasha Tudor! It would be a treat to win. Darling picture of Jack ( but aren’t they all?) and I love the Oct. page from next years calendar. Very cute! Best of care to you, Joe and the kitties!
have always loved Tasha Tudor….and you too!!!
I so appreciate your artistic talent and admire your work. I wish I could see through your eyes as you walk though this beautiful world.
Spring! Such a lovely time, full of beauty and promise. Thank you for sharing your walks with us!
What a lovely little book! Someone who gives it a new home will be a lucky duck!
Love, love, love!
What a lovely little book. Someone who gives it a new home will be a lucky duck!
Can’t wait until Spring. Another great Blog. Thanks.
So enjoy reading about your life – been thinking about all the snow you’ve had there. Thanks for sharing your nature walk with all of us (especially us dry & thirsty Californians! If only there was a way to ship all that snow to us!
They can go to the moon, but no shipping snow?
yes, please! Will be in Portland Oregon next week and looking forward to spending lots of time at Powell’s bookstore… Thanks for the wallpaper too!
Thank you for your blogs – they make me soooo happy!!!!
I have a romantic notion about living in snow country. Seeing the shards of ice in your photos, I’d probably never leave my house. Guess I’m right where I’m suppose to be. I’ll just keep enjoying the snow by reading your blog. . . . . thank you very much.
Yes, be careful what you wish for! 🙂
Jack kitty in his front row seat to snow melting melts my heart! And the Robins in the tree look like fat little pears 🙂 Your walk to the sea was just what I needed after a horribly gloomy California day at work. Thank you Susan!
I am already being rejuvenated by the spring warmth and yet feel behind in getting at the much needed yard work and my master garden project (it’s at my work place). It’s lovely hearing the happy noises of the birds. Thank you for the walk!
I´ve read about that Kitchen Garden book in your older posts, it must be beautiful.
Can´t wait to see your drawings for your NEW book!! I really love your painting.
God bless you,
Barbara
Thank you I need all of that! xoxo
Hi Susan,
Thank you thank you, for another lovely post, for sharing your gorgeous post, and also for your generous give away! What a lovely book you are giving away, and to have a SB bookmark would make it so much more special!
I’m so happy for you that spring seems to be on its way, at last! Here, the snowdrops and other spring bulbs are already out, and the last few days have been just ” warm”, up to 14C in places!
I’ll try to send some over to you, to help the snow melt…
Best wishes and a hug from across the pond
Nicoline
What a fun post to read today! I laughed out loud at the thought of the birds mating..I guess they are anticipating spring as much as everyone else! And Jack watching out the window is just too adorable! Thank you for sharing about your first garden book…I love it! Tasha Tudor is one of my favorites 🙂 Happy Spring! xoxo
Dear Susan! Are you sure you want to give away this book? I mean it’s the most beautiful gardening book I’ve ever seen. I truly love the illustrations. So, think twice… But, in case you don’t change your mind, I’d really like to win it. 🙂 Have a nice day! XOXO
Thanks so much for sharing such good stuff. Lovely and pleasant, peaceful and beautiful. I am grateful…
I really enjoyed your post today and the book looks adorable!
Loved walking along with u and Joe. Amazing to me that Tasha Tudor fans are also Susan branch fans. Isn’t that something? Love your books and Tasha’s. Happy spring!
Birds of a feather!
Put my name in the hat please! Thanks! 🙂
So glad you got out for an airing! This winter has been so odd. Our very warm temps and your very cold ones. I know you must be yearning to get out to your garden; hopefully soon. I loved your pictures and the colorful descriptions. It’s such fun to discover a new blog! Would love to be the lucky winner of the book. Tasha Tudor is a favorite of mine. Thank you so much.
Nancy (from Bakersfield)
Hello Susan,
Kirsten from Western Australia here. Your walk in the snow looked exhilarating….especially with the risk of falling, NOT a nice thought. When Bob and I were in the UK in December they had snow…I thought oh how magical, and your right it looks beautiful. Walking on snow however is a real challenge . There were little old folks steadily walking about and I thought “how brave are you!” But they have done it all their lives. I found it quite scary actually, I’ve had both hips replaced and didn’t fancy a dislocation. Anyway thank you for your post. I love the items I have bought from you they are a real delight. Enjoy Spring as we anticipate beautiful Autumn.
Yes, I don’t fancy dislocation either (I always tell Joe I am waaaaay too busy for the hospital! — Broke my wrist once so I know!). There are these little wire things you can put on your shoes . . . I have to get some for next year if this weather is the “new reality” — they keep you upright.
I love your ability to find joy in all circumstances… 🙂
Thank you for the walk today. Feeling inspired to get out and
take a walk here in sunny Sonoma County California…… <3
It’s a joy to read your blog and walk with you and Joe! Many thanks for the happy times!
Carla in NH
love your blog. It’s so colorful. Would love to know how you get it to load so fast with so many photos. Love the color.
It does what it does without me ~ it’s probably depends on your computer . . . but maybe it has something to do with WordPress that hosts this blog.
Hi Susan,
Lovely story again! Still looks beautiful out there. Spring has officially started here… Well it wasn’t so hard since we didn’t really have a winter… So the birds are singing and the snow drops, crocusses and daffodils are in bloom! Temperatures around 50 during the day. Lovely sunny weather today. Happy Spring to you from the Netherlands!
Love, Elske
To you too Elske!
Good morning, dear Susan! So happy that the Robins are out and letting you know that it is safe for you to venture out! My husband and I saw our first Robin a couple of days ago and we finally ventured out yesterday also!! It was indeed VERY nice to have that sun warming our faces…and to SEE other’s faces, too!!!
About the “Kitchen Gardens book”…I have been looking for that book for YEARS!…Eventually I found 2 of them…but could afford neither one…So now here you are!!(I cannot even believe it!)…I sure hope I am lucky this time! 😀 It was Tasha Tudor and her corgis (we had one when I was growing up…about 50 years ago…so my whole family enjoyed her work) and her artwork (and Beatrix Potter’s, of course) who inspired me to do watercolors. That book is just so beautiful to look at, not to mention just the sheer beauty of her sentiment…just such a joy to behold. I will be looking forward to Vanna’s selection…and my name (hopefully) being on it!
Take care…and walk carefully..and may you have MANY more great days ahead.
Then it will be time to get everything cleaned up outside! Hey, maybe I will finally get the Christmas lights down that were/are stuck behind the ice and snow!
Lots to look forward to! Soon this winter will just be a memory…and the inspiration for all of the tails we will tell in the future.
Spring is just around the corner!! 🙂
<3
Sorry…I meant “TALES* we will tell”… :/ (Oooops!…Where is the “spell checker” when I need it!?)
<3
It’s too busy changing the words you spell right!
Sea glass the first find of Spring!
In honor of St. Pat’s and Spring walks.
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Books = Love !
Thank you for taking us along with you on your ice-melting-birds-mating-spring-waking-snow-melting-beach-raking walk. What an exciting giveaway, I would love to be entered, thank you Susan x
Stop Press! Just heard on the lunchtime news on the radio that Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, visited the ‘Downton’ set today. One of her last engagements before the baby arrives, and yes, apparently she is a fan! X
She likes what we like! She’s a kindred spirit!
Ah, Spring! About watching your birds “in love,” last summer while walking Scottie “Mac,” I discovered a fat black and yellow bumblebee on the path and thought it was sadly dead. Not so! It was actually THREE tangled together. Did some research later and discovered it is frequently even more than three, as the males all fight for a chance….who knew?
Paint us some more bumblebees, Susan! You do it so wonderfully!
I’ll make sure to add one to the new book!
Our snow has just melted here in westerm Ky. and the crocus is blooming ! Spring is seeming especially sweet this year.
☆♡♬☼❀☂♡❁☆Good~Morning Sweet Sue! “Breathing into a Bouquet of Daffodils” Perfection! 🙂 I’m So Happy That Your Windows were Opened & The Very Beginning of Spring Blew in…. Oh Welcome Sweet~Spring~Air! Ahhhhhhh You & Joe & The Kitties Will Have The Sweetest~Slumber! 🙂 & I’m “In~Love” with Jack! Meowzers! 😉 I Love Your End of Winter Walk! Oh My So Much “Science” lol 😉 Yikes is Right! 🙂 Very Exciting News About “Our” Magical New Book off to The Editors! Yay! (Pink~Champagne Please!) 🙂 & My Wings are Always Crossed For Vanna to Pick ME!!!!!!!! One Day….I’m a Believer! Yay! Well I’m Wishing You Glorious Springtime Joy as Winter Slowly Melts Away Sweet Sue…..”Irish~Blessings” For All Of Us on Saint~Patrick’s~Day! Jiggity~Jig! 😉 See You in Twitterville Darling Sue! Kitty~Kisses To You & Joe & Girl & Jack! Yay! xoxo Poof! ☆♡♬☼❀☂♡❁☆ P.S. How’s “OUR” Blog~Daddy? & P.P.S. Did Joe & The Plumber FIX That Leak? 🙂 & P.P.P.S. I Loved Today’s Musica! 🙂 ☆♡♬☼❀☂♡❁☆
I just posted a recipe for Irish Stew on Twitter dear Angie! Irish Blessings on you too!
I Just Saw You in Twitterville Sweet Sue! That Irish~Stew Looks so Yummy & an Excellent Idea! Thank~You! 🙂
My pleasure dear Angie!
My little dog Pierre (a heartbeat at my feet) and I enjoyed an especially long walk today in the gorgeous weather, and we both thoroughly enjoyed it, as you and Joe enjoyed yours. I cannot wait for your new book to be delivered to my door (in Stockbridge) and look so forward to hearing the title!
Yours Truly,
Ann
Howdy neighbor!
Thank you for sharing your lovely morning walk. The Kitchen Garden will keep be busy putting in a new garden at the beach house until your new book comes out. . .so exciting…time to bake some scones for St. Patty’s day…have a beautiful day..
Oh, love going on walks with you and Joe. The new calendar page is a hoot, you have Jack’s expression down pat. Much love – Raquel
All in the eyes! 🙂
Love the new calendar page! Can’t wait for 2016 (well, I can. I don’t want to rush this year away…) My husband always reminds me in November, “Have you ordered the new calendar?” He loves your calendar too. It’s in a prominent place on our kitchen wall. The focal point for family planning. 🙂 Thanks Susan!
Yesterday was my first time in weeks to get INTO the woods with my pup. It is wondrous how deprivations increase not only our hunger but also our gratitude. The garden book you are offering looks like the most delightful marriage of text and artwork. Hmmm. Perhaps it gave you inspiration for more than just your gardening???
Never thought of that, but it’s possible! All those little inspirations going into a person by osmosis, who knows where things come from?! Just glad they do!
What a wonderful post! It’s so lovely to experience the first little inklings of Spring. There is nothing like the fresh new air blowing out all those Winter cobwebs. Such a great giveaway. I love Tasha Tudor & have collected her books for years. I would so enjoy this one. I can see how it would inspire you to get out in the garden. Stay safe on your walks and Happy Spring!
Sigh. I just love your blogs; they so brighten my day. You are poetry.
Thank you for taking us on your walk! Wonderful post!! What a lovely, charming book! Thank you!!
Love reading your blog! Such a beautiful site with all the drawings and photos 🙂
Just discovered first snowdrops from our garden. Spring <3
YOU! Thank you for sharing YOU!
Tasha Tudor is a breath of spring herself! Love your tiny houses on the Oct. calendar.
I remember my first glance at Tasha Tudors art in a child development class. So happy that the “big girls” have wonderful, lovely books like yours in our lives as well.
Susan, your thoughts always warm my heart.
Hello from So Ca very warm here,love to see the frosty photos of your walk to the water looks invigorating.if only we could pipe your melting snow back to the west coast!
You’re up early Gail!
Lovely!
I am so looking forward to Spring and so looking forward to your next book!
As I watched the last of our snow melting yesterday, here in Kentucky, I thought of you and the girlfriends in Boston, and wondered how long it would take YOUR tons of white stuff to leave. Thanks for the post; I could smell the sea from here (but not the YUCKY thing you found by the side of the path!!! LOL).
Thank you! I’ve been waiting for your next post. Seems so long since we’ve heard from you. I do understand you are a busy productive lady. Always enjoy everything you share. Loved the pictures and commentary from your lovely walk. I could almost smell the fresh sea air!
Of course once again you are being so generous in the book offering. I adore Tasha Tudor and would be over the moon to receive it. I have four children who love her illustrations and books. They would search the library for new finds as children on our library days.
Thank you again for all the joy you spread!
I HAD this book at one time, but since my world turned upside down due to brain surgery and my move to Assisted Living, heaven only know where it is now! You’re so right when you write what a lovely book it is. I enjoyed your walk this morning with Joe and thank heaven neither of you had a tumble! Bye now. p
Love your website. Arlene
What a lovely post, Susan. Spring is actually happening up here in New Hampshire, too! I am a great fan of Tasha Tudor and in recent years I enjoyed a tour of her gardens in Vermont. What a meaningful experience that was. Have a great day and continue to breathe that in wonderful Martha’s Vineyards air!
I do love Tasha Tudor illustrations. I’m not up to attempting walks in the snow yet. The streets are narrow and icy or very wet, full of pot holes, and the rest of the world here in Maine covered with deep snow, but it did melt some. There is hope. They have put sap buckets on the trees, a sure sign of spring.
Dearest Gardening Friend, Susan~ You take the basket! Cake too! Ha! What lovely, lovely thoughts – melting snow, seaside glory, Kitty looking out the window….and a drawing for a glorious book! Gosh, that is just filled with sugarplums dancing in our heads! We all love your life…..thanks for sharing! (I love my life too!). Hugs all around….
Dear Susan,
I have just found your blog and just love it! Have had your books for years. I always feel happy when looking at your books…and now your blog! Thank you for being such a positive person…we need more of that! God bless you and your family…and kitties, too! 🙂
Thank you for taking me along on that lovely walk!
I love Snowy Winters….. They have ‘tire chains’ for shoes and are a must if you do much walking on slick paths. Enjoy your Blogs more than you can know….
Love your blog, I too went for a walk on this beautiful day.the birds were enjoying the nice weather here too.
What a wonderful spring walk. Thank you for taking us along. I took one of those as the snow was melting don here in NC a couple of weeks ago. The birds were going crazy and the air just had that spring smell about it. The creek was running with snow melt so loudly. I love spring!!! Waiting for all the blooming things to begin.
We NEED Spring here in Vermont – the lovely garden book would help. Loved taking the morning walk with you and Joe.
Oooooohh, Robins!!! I haven’t seen one yet! I think I heard one the other day though. Thanks for the picture. Here, just north of Milwaukee, our weather is much the same as yours. It’s amazing to even think of going outside without hat and gloves, much less with an open jacket!!!! The puddles are calling and I don’t want to miss out on seeing them and breathing in that good, ground awakening smell.
Thanks for the post. I really enjoyed reading it.
Thanks for sharing the treasured discoveries along your walk! As a hiker, I could relate to the surprises nature bestows upon us when we make it out along the path well known or less traveled. Each season brings its own special surprises. Sometimes the tween seasons are the most fun as they blend two worlds.
Happy St.Patricks day! Happy spring!
I love your inspiring artwork and beautiful illustrations – I have them strategically throughout my living space and find feel that Love, Friendship and beauty in living everyday- Thank You, Susan – you are a true inspiration to me! I really look forward to this book of Garden Kitchens- True Love-
Thanks for sharing your morning walk today. Love the October page of the wall calendar and absolutely can’t wait for your new book!
Thanks for the exercise. That Jack is soooooo precious.
Susan and Joe, your walk looks lovely! The snow has dissipated here to and we are looking forward to Spring – the trees already have buds! Enjoy this lovely time of year!
I just recommended your blog to our tax lady this week. She likes bunnies as much as I do and I told her all about your Beatrix Potter room. Yay! Another follower.
Thank you Nancy! xoxo
Ah, spring……can’t wait!
Hi Susan,
Would love to win your Gardening book giveaway. Can’t wait to get out working in the flowers! Love spring it is the best time of year! Very excited about your new book too! It is such fun to read your blog and see all the wonderful pictures too! Enjoy spring! 🙂
Susan,
Thank you for all the beautiful pictures and especially for the musica with all the beautiful flowers. I just got back from Disneyworld where my son got married on the 12th. He and his new bride rode in Cinderella’s coach. It was enchanting with all the beautiful flowers around. In Epcot it was flower festival and all the characters were done in flowers. They were amazing! You are like a breath of fresh air and happiness. Thank you so very much. Deb
Well, that’s adorable!
Your posts truly make my day and I too, love to garden.
Dear Susan…you’ve inspired me yet again. It’s a little cooler here, 27 this morning, but hubby and I are going to take an”almost spring” walk across the lake to visit our camp to check things out…always with some apprehension…hopeful that the critters haven’t made it their own over the winter.
Don’t worry, just take a deep breath of fresh air! All the rest is gravy!
Grew up on Mass. Bay South Shore. Finding blue sea glass was THE BEST! Still can’t walk a beach without looking for it. You lucky girl! xox
This looks like a wonderful garden book and illustrations by Tasha Tudor — wow, what a special treat! Throw my name in the hat, please. I promise to give it a good home!
Your writings today were a breath of fresh air. You put such a spring in my step. Thank you over and over again for sharing your beauty with us.
Nice weather and walk. Our weather here has finally turned nice too, 50’s! I love the sea glass. I am going to google it and see how it is created. What a great find.
Please enter my name for the drawing of the book. Thanks for the chance.
Oh my goodness, you cannot know how happy you made me this morning. I have been hoping we would be hearing from you and what a treat to see your world beginning to turn to spring. Life is such a gift, isn’t it?
Yes! The whole world is a garden ~ I love that quote. Thanks for that special, “Susan Branch kind of inspiration!”
I like so many others enjoy your blog. The walk in nature from a different perspective. We have been under snow, like you since before Christmas and now just seeing large patches of brown grass. I am so looking forward to spring and green grass.
I love your art work and that is what first drew me to you, but even if we are not close in distance, I think I have found a kindred spirit. Thanks for sharing your world.
Thanks for being here!
What a lovely walk! It’s that time of year when even the sight of a small patch of grass makes my heart sing! Spring always brings such hope…time to order the garden seeds and dream of the yummy things to come. Even the birds here are singing with all the sunshine.
Thank you for the encouragement and beautiful post. Spring is coming! Spring is coming!
The birds are like nature’s Paul Revere!
Well said!
Thank you for the opportunity to maybe win the garden book. I was fortunate to see Tasha Tudor once at a Home & Garden Show in Columbus, Ohio….many years ago. Just curious, have you found a new “helper” yet?
The IRS ended up getting my “helper” money this year — maybe next year!
Oh Susan, I so love to read your blog! I especially love Jack. He’s so terribly photogenic!
I have to agree! He’s a cutie!
Ahhh, thanks for your post
Tasha Tudor illustrating a garden book! Couldn’t be nicer, thank you!