We’ve been out trippin’ for the last week, and I just downloaded (or uploaded, whichever it is) 491 photos into my computer! I will do you the supreme favor of not showing you all of them (have to save some for WILLARD), just a few, to catch you up on where we are and what we’ve been doing so far! You know what? Taking pictures doubles the pleasure! I’ve had so much fun looking at them this morning! MUSICA!
It’s October, Girlfriends, rabbit-rabbit, big time. ♥
It’s been wonderful out here on the road. We’ve driven across Massachusetts, up through Vermont to Lake Champlain, and now we’ve arrived in Meredith, New Hampshire ~ in two cars, with our friends Lowely and John. Here are a few road photos so you can see a little bit of what happens in New England in the fall.
Scarecrows, cute ones, decorate roadsides . . .
And there are apple trees EVERYWHERE. Aren’t they gorgeous? I bet 300 of my pictures are of apples! I can’t help it. I think you can see why!
And of course, Vermont is famous for its covered bridges . . . which we brake for like crazy!
This one had windows inside, and this is the view. Lowely and I are looking out this window and thinking how much we want to take a walk next to that river ~ so we pick a spot further down and ask the boys if they would meet us there with the cars.
And of course, they say yes . . . there goes Joe!
So here we are, on our little woodsy path next to the river. That’s Lowely.
She needs to get just the right shots so she can paint some of these scenes when she gets home.
We’re going to meet the guys on the other side of that bridge . . .
Here we are on the bridge with the lapping little stream running beneath us . . .
And there they are, in the ancient, classical pose of men waiting for women . . . how we love them!
So off we go again, through hill and dale . . . and everywhere there are American flags flying . . . and trust me, although I haven’t put up pictures of us eating, don’t worry, we definitely ATE.
There was just enough color to satisfy the soul, but much more to come for New Englanders! This is just the beginning. (Uh oh, we better catch up with their car, they’re getting ahead of us!)
John lived in Vermont when he was in college, so he knows all the best back roads . . .
But then I try to take a picture of it to Tweet on Twitter, but no service!
That’s okay I just save the pics for later . . . can you see the cows? I am SUCH a barn person!
All these country scenes make me think of paintings like this one.
More flags! A good red tree over there too!
More flags, and of course, since this is Vermont, it’s “Bernie Sanders country!”
The last of the season hydrangeas are worth their weight in gold. Picket fences too . . . Everything has been so clean, no trash on the sides of roads . . . beautifully kept.
We went to a graveyard to lay flowers on the grave of Lowely’s grandmother. . .very lovely, of course, quiet, blowy and chilly, wonderful.
And then we’re off again . . . to Lowely’s grandmother’s house, to see where her mom grew up (the house has been made into a B & B) where we got to see this . . .
The eclipse! Ooooo, eerie and cold night, leaves blowing and this red moon! The last time we had a moon like this was in 1982, the year I moved to Martha’s Vineyard. ♥ Perfect timing for a revisit!
Trees blew in front of it . . . I wished it was Halloween and this was our moon! All of us under this moon together! So lucky!
Lowely put us in the bedroom belonging to her grandparents . . . we had a fire. Do not fear for us out here no matter what the weather, because wherever we’ve gone, we always seem to find a cozy fireplace!
Here we are at the Shelburne Museum yesterday, which I will tell you more about later, but I just had to take a photo of this little pile of leaves blowing around the corner of one of the Museum houses.
And this is today! From the deck of our room here at the hotel in Meredith this morning, beautiful sky, but cold out there!
B r r r r ♥
Here’s another shot, looking down. We seem to be “lake hopping!” This is Lake Winnipesaukee. When I get done here, we’re going out for a walk in the woods!
And, as you might imagine, when it comes to the new book, the fairy tale continues.♥ I think the very last of your books went out yesterday and we already have 12 lovely five-star reviews on Amazon!!!!!! It’s really hard to believe. I know it’s you ~ and I can’t thank you enough!♥
Reviews are also starting to trickle in to Goodreads too ~ also wonderful comments, but a couple of readers 
mentioned discomfort with having to read about the sad parts of my life. But I have to say, I’m not sure if I would have ever made it to this kind of happy if I hadn’t had that heartbreak too. It’s bringing yourself out of sadness that is the true accomplishment in anyone’s life (I think). And 
it’s true life. It can’t all be candy canes and butterflies! But it’s YOUR reviews I’ve been loving.♥ If you would like to read what our Girlfriends have been saying, just click on “comments” at the bottom of my last post and they are all there. Even on this trip, I’ve been reading them and telling my heart to “be still” every day. Not easy! Too good! Thank you all so much!
Writing about the back roads of England is one thing, writing about yourself is something very different! I didn’t realize HOW different until it was too late!!! So thank you! XOXO
And darling pictures are coming in too . . . this is our Girlfriend Michele Morgan and her new book . . . a fairy tale girl if I ever saw one!
And this one came from, you guessed it, a teacher Girlfriend of ours from Indiana named Lori Hibbard who wrote “to give the book an A+.” I felt just like a kid with a really GOOD grade!
Here are the girls we have to thank for the monumental job of getting your books to you . . . from left, that’s Sherie, then Kellee, Bonnie, Robin, and Sharon. And they’re still smiling!
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Here’s Kellee, who makes all the hard decisions! ♥
I’ll say goodbye and leave you with some more hearts ~ ones we found on the beach, and another bigger black-and-white heart named Girl Kitty. Out here in the world, no kitties for me! It will be good to get home! But tomorrow, Saturday, October 3, I get to 
meet lots of you at Innisfree Books, between 11 am and 1pm. I hope, if you’re in the neighborhood, you can make it. After Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams (book two) comes out, Joe and I will get in the van and cross the country and try to see the rest of you! That’ll be next May! I have to get home and finish painting for the second one (SO much more to show you)! Until then, any of you who ordered a book but haven’t gotten it, you should have it very soon now! Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Have a fabulous day! Love you! XOXO
Oh! Susan!! You have done it again! Made me so envious! I would love to be in your van with you while you travel! I don’t take up much room! And to stay in all the nifty places with a crackling fire!!! You make it possible for me to live vicariously thru your blog! THANK YOU! I love to see your photos of your travels! Be safe! Many blessings to you and your hunny and your traveling companions!
Happy Fall!
((((Hugz))))
Linda 🙂
You’re there, I have you tucked between the teapot and my pillow! XOXO Thank you!!
Dear Susan ~~~ what gorgeous pictures! I just want to sit in those heavenly Adirondack chairs, wrapped in a blanket against the chill of an Autumn day to just soak up the atmosphere and view ~~~ Bliss! Thank you for sharing your break with us.
I’ve just ‘visited’ Lowely’s gallery. Oh, my! Such a talented lady. Please tell her I have enjoyed looking at her paintings so much.
Thrilled for everyone who is getting their books, but even more thrilled for you that the reviews are pouring in. Patiently waiting here ~ Amazon shows October 30th on the main ‘selling’ page, but still the 24th November on my personal ‘open orders’ page. Fingers crossed they get it to me in October, yes?
It is a beautiful Autumn day here in the Shire, but definitely time to get out the mittens, hats, and scarves. Not a moment too soon for hot chocolate days either! We won’t see the same spectacular colour you have on your trees, most of ours are already down, dried and brown from lack of rain but oh! they make the best crunching sound when I stomp through them!
~~~waving~~~from Across the Pond~~~Deb in Wales xoxo
I hope we’ll be experiencing exactly what you are next year when we travel back to England et al! I’ll be sure to tell Lowely! Waving back . . . xoxo
I shall put in a good word with the weatherman, and make sure there are plenty of fallen, dry and crunchy leaves. I hope there will be plans for a book signing somewhere along the way xoxo
Planning a BYO Picnic Basket party in Stourhead in Wiltshire next September and hoping all Girlfriends on other side of Pond can come. Nothing else planned right now, but you never know ~ yes please, lots of color and leaves floating out of the trees.
Where in Wales, Miz Deb. My grandmother was born in Llandudno, District of Conway, North Wales. Just curious. Visited once many years ago; hope to return.
I’m at the opposite end in west Wales ~ just a short distance from the ocean, next stop America. If you return, stop by and say “Hi!” ~~~Deb xo
Thank you, thank you for my autumn trip. When my kitty (Tiki) lost her hearing, she became very insecure. I promised her I would not leave her overnight ever again, so I’m not traveling right now, except by internet. I’ve only traveled through Vermont on bus tours, so you’ve inspired me to put a car trip on my future list so I can experience the back roads in autumn. For now, photos are wonderful.
I totally understand. Hugs to Tiki! xoxo
Hi Patsy–Your kitty is very lucky to have someone like you. 🙂
And I’m very lucky to have a sweet loving kitty like Tiki. I live alone, and she’s brought me lots of company, lots of love, and lots of high utility bills, because I keep the house between 72 and 74 year round, night and day, just for her. AND I can’t think of a better way to spend my money.
Sweet Patsy. Our little pets, what we won’t do for them. xoxo
I know how you feel, Patsy. My cat is 18 1/2 years old and is blind and almost deaf. She is very well taken care of. She adores my husband!
Hi Patsy, my kitty lost her hearing this year too……I still talk to her all the time..
I do, too. I think they know we’re telling them we love them. My Tiki was 18 in July. How old is your kitty?
Patsy, You are a gem. I wish all pets could be treated like your kitty is treated. God Bless. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
My Angel is sweet 16…….she’s mostly white with aqua eyes and vet said that coloring usually loses their hearing at some point.
Patsy, your promise to your cat made me cry. What a sweetheart you are!
Tiki was starting to get really lethargic and go to corners of the room to nap. She seemed to be withdrawing. The vet did a blood workup and found her to be low on thyroid. She perked right up after she started taking it.
Then I perked right up, trying to find ways to get her to take it. She only needs 1/4 of a little pill about the size of a baby aspirin, but I once put it in a tiny cube of chicken and then licked my finger. OMG! Just touching it made my finger taste unbelievably terrible. No wonder she doesn’t like it. I’ve tried pill pockets, smashing it in the gravy of her wet food, hiding it in one of the morels of turkey in her wet food, burying it in her pate’. The battle continues daily. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. AND, believe it or not, she’s allergic to seafood or I could get her to slurp it up in tuna juice.
Dear, dear Susan! How lovely of you to take us along with you on this wonderful trip! I am filled with longing to do the same! Perhaps again, someday.
It’s great to see that there is some color that greeted you. And – that marvelous moon! We had cloud cover here:( I just have to live 18 more years to see it when it comes around the next time. That is in my plans!
What a treat to be able to stay in Lowely’s grandmother’s house! Love it!
Covered bridges hold great appeal and interest for us as well. That’s a great one!
Hoping the rain will not pose a problem for you this week-end, and that the book signing will result in meeting many new fans/followers!
xo Nellie
Rain rain go away . . . xoxo
Send ALL unwanted rain here to California !
Okee-dokee!
Many blessings to you for safe travels Susan – and lots of fun along the way! I love the photos you share and enjoying traveling along with you. So beautiful!
I’m absolutely LOVING your new book!! I just love your wit and wisdom and, of course, your beautiful artwork too. Thank you so much for sharing so much of yourself. You’re an inspiration! I’m so happy there’s another book yet to come. 😉
xoxo
Me too, I felt kind of bad when A Fine Romance ended . . . this is much better! 🙂 Thank you Carrie!
Sending you gold stars too! Your newest book is awesome and I hope you enjoy the rest of your road trip. I know all the Girlfriends out there will love your story. Anxiously awaiting the next … thank you! <3
Thank you back Lori! xo
You go, girl!!! What a wonderful treat to travel as an “atta girl” reward for your hard work of writing/ publishing Fairy Tale Girl!!! YOU DESERVE ALL THE VERY BEST! Safe and bucolic meanderings throughout New England! Happy, happy book signings! Perhaps one day you’ll be at Book Revue, in Huntington, New York where I live on Long Island! I’ll be first on line for you to sign my 1994 copy of ” Love From the Heart of the Home: A Keepsake Book” along with “Fairy Tale Girl!!!! We Long Island girls would be so blessed by your visit!!!!
CONGRATULATIONS, SUSAN!!
Thank you Jean, I hope we can make it out there one day. Believe it or not, I’ve never been there! Thank you for the good tidings! xoxo
Hi Susan,
So happy that you share your Fall road trips with us! That’s a dream of mine to someday do the same. I also love your fall watercolors, your leaves are divine, love, love, love them. I too read some of your new book reviews yesterday, and knew I would find good ones! I think you word things so well, such as in response to a few who were disappointed in the sad parts, but as you said life is sprinkled with sad and joyous, to, I think make us better people. I think maybe they were just sad that our Fairy Tale girl had to go through any sadness. But I am happy to say that although I haven’t gotten your book yet, I am going to today!!! My sister gave me some birthday money and the first thing I thought of on my “wish” list is your book!! Enjoy your trip, be safe, and can’t wait for the next Willard with more pics.
Thank you Paula!!
I got my book a couple days ago Susan!! Love it! When my husband walked into the house with the package, I got so excited and told him “my book my book!”
The pictures that you put into this post were really good. I loved the one of Lake Winnipesaukee. I could deal with sitting in one of those chairs and just watch the lapping of the lake and the people that were probably out on it in boats. And to walk along that beach! Those roads wondering through the woods…. They look so peaceful! I believe that they are one of my favorite places to be whenever we go to Upper State NY. The hills are so green! No much traffic at all either. All the flags…. that was one of the first things I noticed the last time (around 8 years ago) that we were back there. All the houses and all the towns that we saw had a flag hanging. I said something about it to my aunt and she was kind of taken aback I think. She said “of course there would be flags.” I, too, liked all the covered bridges. Not nearly as many out west.
Enjoy the rest of your trip. Been thinking of you and the storm coming your way this weekend. Be safe.
xox,
Carol M
We’re getting on the ferry to go home tonight, I hope the waves have calmed down! But I have my magic wrist bands with me, so I think I can take the 45 minute ride!
Great Beautiful Pictures . . . Thank You For Sharing ! : )
Just finished Fairy Tale Girl a few minutes ago and absolutely LOVED it. Only disappointment was that it had to end. Bought my older sister a copy for her birthday next week. She is going to love, I mean luv, the Beatles story. Enjoy the rest of your trip. No better place to be in autumn than New England!
Thank you Mary-Agnes! xoxo Hello to your sister too!
Loved your book Susan! Did anyone used to tell you that you looked like Ali McGraw?
No, but I like it! 🙂
My book arrived yesterday and I can’t put it down! When I opened the front cover, I shrieked with joy! There in front of me was my same baby book pages filled with all of your info, of course, but the same book, nonetheless. It made me feel an even stronger connection to you.
Wishing you would come to Raleigh, NC in the future to sign at Quail Ridge Books. Great independent book store with a great following…
Safe journeys to you and yours.
Fondly,
Mame
Thanks so much Mame! So fun we had the same book!
hi Susan….was so excited when i got the notice that my copy of The Fairy Tale Girl had been shipped…it came in the mail yesterday. i carefully opened the package and sat down in my comfy chair to read a few pages…….i noticed the book jacket flaps were tucked in to the last three pages of the book so i went to see and…..the three pages were ripped at the top about two inches. what ever shall i do??? i was hoping to put the book away for three weeks until it is time for me to go on a quilt retreat. please let me know what i should do. thank you.
Write to [email protected]/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ and either Kellee or Sheri will take care of that for you! SO sorry!
Dearest Sue and Sweet Joe, I hope i know your having the best times ever. I love you both so much. Not to leave out the kitties you know they are so loved Too. I wish you the best trip ever my Birthday is Oct 6th and will be watching for more beautiful events to come . Take care of each other be safe to return home to your babies and have a blast for me ok love to you both XXX Cheyenne still in Henderson Nv. XXX
Happy almost birthday Cheyenne!!
Just got my book! This may sound silly, but I can’t quite bring myself to start it. I’m so enjoying the anticipation of reading it, and I know that once I start I’m sure to finish way too soon. Maybe I’ll start tonight. I know I won’t be able to hold out much longer. Thank you so much, Susan, for putting another book out into the world.
I understand. Sometimes the anticipation is too delicious to give up right away!
Lisa that is how I feel too! I just know once I start I won’t be able to stop, and then it will be all done! Tho I know I will go back and re-read, but that first read is just so special! X
So nice to know that someone gets me! 🙂
Hi Susan, Your book is AMAZING! It truly is a fairy tale, just an incredible journey to where you have come today. It was so heartfelt, I had tears, and I laughed, and I felt like I was actually feeling all your emotions as each chapter of your past unfolded. I remember way back when, when I first bought your book the Heart of the Home, I used to think how this California girl came to be in Martha’s Vineyard, so far away from home. I wondered about your marriage and what could have happened to send you so far away. It was so incredible how you met the people you did, and experienced the things that would take you to heights you never thought possible. Thank you for sharing such a private part of your life, as I believe that when God does close the door he opens a window, and through that window came an adventure that is still unfolding! Can’t wait for Isle of Dreams!
Have fun on your trip through New England, I’m so glad I live here too!
~ East Longmeadow, Ma ~
Thank you so much Suzanne, for your beautiful words! xoxo Happy Fall to you and yours!
Most important of all .CONGRATS on your NEWEST BOOK > SOO HAPPY FOR YOU BOTH> I know you must have put so much work into it . Again Congrats to you. Love and light and many more sunny days to take the pictures you love and so do we love to you both , Cheyenne from Henderson Nv still til Newport Beach , Ca here i come i miss my home and my Grand children Isabelle and My Jake and not to forget my sweet son Ashley Renard in Huntington Beach , Ca love you all XXX
Dear Susan, (Susie), (Sue) 🙂
Received your book in the mail beginning of the week; couldn’t put it down!
Now I have to wait the better part of a year to read the rest of the story???
Argh!
Guess I’ll just have to content myself with a re-read of a “Fine Romance” and live vicariously through the photos on your blog. Happy Travelin’!
Kathy in California
p.s. how about a trip to Silicon Valley on your next tour? I’m waaaaaiting!
I just started The Fairy Tale Girl last night, and I am loving it! We have some common background. I, too, had ancestors in Salem at the time of the Witch Trials. I’m also a DAR.
It’s always such a treat when a new post goes up!! It does, indeed, seem like just the right time to venture out on the back roads to enjoy the Autumn bounty – absolutely the best time of year! Spring is a close second, but Fall IS the best!
I finished The Fairy Tale Girl yesterday – Boo hoo! I loved it, but now I’ve read it, and I really just want to start all over again. One good thing – it’s only 32 weeks until Mother’s Day (I counted) and “The Isle of Dreams”. Hooray!! It’s always good to have something to look forward to.
I’m going to second Mame’s request that you set up a book signing at Quail Ridge Books in Raleigh. I have kids in Raleigh, so it would be the perfect opportunity to visit with them and also with you! Who knows, Mame and I might meet as well!
Have a super-wonderful book signing tomorrow!! There is sure to be a huge crowd of girlfriends waiting to meet both you and Joe! XOXO!
We’ll try for Quail Ridge Books! If you both wear your name tags, you’ll be able to recognize each other!
Hi Susan
You sure look like you are having an amazing time. How beautiful the pictures were of all the fabulous places you are seeing. Enjoy this gorgeous Fall day Susan
deezie
Love seeing the pictures from your road trip. Can’t wait to see more. Looking at the picture of Kitty Girl and the heart shaped stones on the window sill makes me think, I can’t do that. My cat, Pooh, just can’t resist things on the coffee table, window sill or hubby’s workbench. He knocks everything onto the floor and then gives that look like, Oh my look what just happened! It jumped on the floor! Just love our fur-kids now matter what they do. Meowwww…..
They have us TOTALLY fooled! 🙂
Due to family cicumstances … father passing away in January, putting mother in assisted living, losing a dear cousin in an auto accident in August, and then our mother a few weeks ago, I’ve not been able to follow you blog as I usually do. Thank you for your many travel logs with pictures. This one and others in the past put a smile on my face. Thank you for sharing. Oh, and I hope to order you new book soon🌞
Oh dear Susan, I’m so sorry or the sadness that’s befallen you this year. Blessings on you and your family. Sending love xoxo.
Susan (Grayslake, IL), You must be so devastated. I lost my husband two years ago. I’m just now getting my joy back. Life is full of struggles, that’s for sure. God Bless. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
The back roads are the best!!! Beautiful photos. You can see the joy in your heart through all of your pictures. America is so beautiful!! So glad you are enjoying it! …..I received an email yesterday, that my book is on it’s way!! Thank you Susan, and all your lovely helpers. Can’t wait to start reading. ♥
I have the same baby book, too!
So fun!
Susan my husband and I made a trip very muck like yours a few years ago. The Shelburne Museum had a exhibit about Tasha Tudor.It was a wonderful museum. As I said before I absolutely love your new book. We grew up in the same era and so much of everyday life I can relate to. Maybe not meeting the Beatles! I love them just the same. I wish you safe travels and I know you will meet so many lovely fans. Mary Elizabeth
I definitely did meet lots of wonderful Girlfriends on this trip! We went to the Shelburne, but I MISSED anything with Tasha Tudor in it, darn — I didn’t know. But we already decided we have to go back because this is not a place you can do in two hours. Thank you Mary Elizabeth!
Oh, what a wondrous group of pictures … I love the red leaves which seem to only be in New England right now. Have you seen any sheep on your venture? Cannot wait to hear all about the wonderful restaurants and food that one finds when idly driving and roaming. So envious… my book arrived yesterday and awaits tea time – I love to read in the afternoons with cookies and tea. Happily ever after – weather forecast: rain and napping here in NC
Dear Susan,
How lovely, to be able to wander through gorgeous New England! Me and my husband were there, many years ago, and we had a few lovely days there, and enjoyed our first blueberry pancakes.
I could not believe my luck, when the mailman brought me your book on Tuesday! It was already a bright sunny day, and this was the icing on the cake. I have read it, enjoyed it so much, and thank you for giving us such joy!
Guess what….I cycle each day, fairly early in the morning, and go along little ditches and waterways with tall trees, and all kinds of birds. I see the Canadian Geese flying south, and hear them ” talking”, I see moorhens run cross the cycle path, there are ducks and grebes swimming in the larger canal.
But what made me SO HAPPY and excited…… Yesterday I saw one, and today again, I saw 2 gorgeously lovely bright blue Kingfishers!!
I had no idea they lived here, and never in my wildest dreams expected to see them…I tried to take a picture, but by the time I got my gloves off, they had seen me, and flew off…But the picture is in my head, and So special…
Okay, I also wonder, have you heard any more of the Chinese version of ” a Fine Romance?
Enjoy the booksigning and have fun!
Best wishes
Nicoline
Yes, I have, and in fact, I think it might be waiting for me when I get home! Depending on how fast it travels from China . . . they said they were sending it before I left. Can’t wait to see it! But it’s going to be strange. I ordered an extra 20 just in case anyone speaks Chinese and wants one! I’ll take pics for the blog when it gets here. Love your bird talk Nicoline … I wonder, with the changing weather, if we will start seeing birds we don’t normally see?
Definitely. In the past, the Canada Geese came through Missouri on their way to the south for the winter. Now they live here year round.
In addition, it’s not only birds. We now have armadillos here in the summer and they used to stay in Texas.
Yes, we’re getting new things too. Mostly birds, being an Island.
BIRD LOVERS ALERT. I recently took my hummingbird feeder down, as I thought the hummers were gone. Then a few days ago, this little friend came to one of our trees, telling me he needed food. Of course, I rushed inside & filled the hummer feeder up & put it outside in the area I usually feed hummingbirds. Could he have been a little guy/girl who was migrating? Haven’t seen any hummers trying to feed after that. This lone hummer seems to have left. I’m perplexed. Next summer, I’ll leave the feeders up longer, even though I don’t see hummers coming to the feeders. I guess there will always be stragglers. I’d hate for any of them to be hungry. Any ideas GF’s? (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
YAY! My book came yesterday and, since I wasn’t working today, I stayed up WAY too late reading! My Annie K. At was very happy to have me up reading so I could stroke her while I was reading! Both of us purrrrrrredddd…. 🙂
I love Vermont and enjoy seeing it in fall! <3
Annie K. At. Now that is a wonderful kitty name! Love that you are purring Matty!
If you read in bed a lot and Annie sleeps with you, I suggest a Kindle Paperwhite. If you buy the little cover, it’s then like a book when it’s open. You can hold it with one hand, flip to the next page by swiping it with your thumb, leaving one hand free to pet kitty.
This is how I solved the problem of Tiki’s walking back and forth over me like a speed bump when I needed two hands to hold a hardback book, and she wasn’t getting the attention she feels she so richly deserves.
Of course, this won’t work with Susan’s books. The color is a big part of the enjoyment and the Paperwhite only gives you black and white. Doesn’t work well with cookbooks either.
Received your book in the mail on Wednesday…slowly taking it all in, your drawings/paintings are wonderful. A bit of a surprise when I saw the date, June 25, 1977 on the page…that’s MY wedding anniversary!
It was 38 years for us to celebrate this past June (my husband bought me your book for an early Christmas present!). Thank you so much for sharing.
Well, see? You did what I thought I’d be doing at the time . . . 38 years! Congratulations!
Thank you for sharing those lovely pictures — my favorite kind of pictures (walks through the woods, leaves, kitties, water, moon, houses, etc.!) I’m reading “Fairy Tale Girl” and am taking my time reading it. I’m really enjoying reading it! You had mentioned a couple of readers’ having discomfort about reading about the sad parts of your life — I think these sad parts make you (anyone) a stronger person and more appreciative of life and its blessings. You’ve done that and I’m looking forward to reading the next book!
Thanks Susan!
hi susan!! I don’t know whether to hug you or slug you!!!! “Fairy Tale Girl” is beyond my dreams…did not want it to end! But end it did..with a cliff-hanger(pun intended 🙂 ) no less!!! (that’s the slug part!). I don’t think I can sanely wait until Mother’s Day to read “Isle of Dreams”…that’s like a year away!! So my condolence was to pick up “A Fine Romance” off my bedside table and reread it..(even better the second time!)… Needless to say, I adored reading “Tale” and have been blabbing about it to anyone who will listen…and a lot have listened!! Congratulations on a spectacular accomplishment….it is a wonderful thing to be able and willing to share your gifts with others…Thank you for (again) letting us tag along on your glorious road trip. I know that area from our excursion to the White Mountains, Mt. Washington, Bretton Woods, and Jackson, NH this past summer….delightful!!! Good luck with the book signing tomorrow…those lucky Girlfriends!!!! safe travels and enjoy!!! XOXO
I know, I felt bad . . . I’ll hurry with part two! Thank you so so much Cindy! I’m so happy you liked it!
Ahhh…such beautiful pictures of New England with changing of colors. Thank you. As you know, we don’t get that type of beauty in California. Took my first acrylic painting class this week at the ripe young age of 72…we shall see how it goes. Went to Lowely’s webpage and LOVED it…I can dream…again, we shall see. I did quite well in the Vino and Painting class…does that count?? Enjoy your travels. Just received my book and looking forward to lovely evenings reading it.
Vino and painting counts more than the others! 🙂 xoxo
I just got my book today, and am loving the feel and smell and pristiness that is a new book. I will sometimes hold off reading a new book for a few days just to glory in its possession, but this time I think I will be diving right in!
To the readers who are uncomfortable reading about the sad things that happened to you, think of this. My mother-in-law was talking to her grand-daughter who said, “Grandma, you’ve had a hard life.” (Grandma has been widowed twice.) Grandma told her, “No, I have hard times. I have had a wonderful life.” That’s the outlook we need.
Your pictures are a lovely feast. I have a fascination with covered bridges. And trees changing color. And really, just everything autumny! My mom gets to make her first trip to the east coast at age 80! She’ll be further south, but will hopefully be there for the colors.
Thank you again and again for sharing with us. Love your people, they do a fantastic job. Love your kitties, they do a fantastic job as well, little soul-warmers! And what a wonderful man you have in Joe, you guys are a matched set for sure. Take care and have fun traveling! =^..^=
Exactly perfect, our Grandmothers were geniuses! Thank you Mona!
Oh my goodness!! The kittie-cat you made is adorable! Actually even better than the smiley face! After I study it a bit I’ll share with my 3 girls who will each get a great giggle from that and I’ll be pretty cool with my oldest who just turned 15. Thanks, Mona, and Happy Fall!
Thank you for “taking me along” on your trip north in this blog. Beautiful country, and I loved “our” walk along the river path too! I have finished The Fairy Tale Girl and can’t wait until the next book comes out. Susan, you are SO talented to have written down,remembered, and shared all that you did. I never kept a diary–didn’t want anyone to know what I was thinking I guess. Since I am just six years older than you, you brought back lots of similar and familiar memories and feelings, even the sad ones. Like you, I had wonderful parents–just not so many siblings! So, thank you, thank you. I’m ever grateful to you for sharing your life with us.
Maybe I sort of kept a diary for all of us!
Exactly! Mighty glad you did. I am reading the new book slowly so as to make it last. Love the references to songs I had grown up with but forgotten about. You and I are the same age Susan so the memories are similar. Wonderful book, and I am also really looking forward to May for Part II. Love having something so positive and wonderful to look forward to (especially with all the bad news in the world), you keep me loving life!!
Love to hear that Judy!
Oh Susan! My Momma lives in Burlington and Vermont is my favorite place on Earth!! I have seen many places you photographed and I can’t wait to get up there for another visit! (I’m down in Alabama. When ya heading this way?) I hope you enjoy the rest of your trip. There is absolutely NOTHING like New England in the fall!!
I have to agree!
What a wonderful trip. The country roads look so charming. I can imagine the pretty little towns along the way.
xo,
Karen
Oh Susan. I so loved the picture of the little corner of leaves! I have a ‘thing’ for leaves. Love them! I probably have more rubber stamps of leaves than anything else! Also love to collect them & put them between waxed paper to help preserve them. The leaves are just starting to fall here in Idaho. Thanks for all your trips & bringing us along.
And they come in so many shapes sizes and colors! Quite amazing!
Wow ~ You had me at Delicious Autumn!
I’ve never seen such dapperly dressed scarecrows! Such beautiful pictures of apple trees, streams, a covered bridge, fall leaves & a cozy fire. I can almost feel the crisp fall air & smell the fire! Nothing like a fall road trip to make my heart zing! We are planning a trip in a few weeks too. Our first trip along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail through small historic towns and past some beautiful horse farms. Can hardly wait to get going!
That sounds beautiful!
DEAREST Susan!
My book came yesterday and I couldn’t put it down until it was “The End.” My fairy tale growing up was very different from yours–but the ending was much the same (on a smaller scale). I am definitely! a FAIRY TALE GIRL! grown up, but never quite.
I love that you take photos of leaves. I have 7,692 photos (at least) of flowers and leaves and door knobs and trees, and blades or grass and clothes hooks and wallpaper–from the past 23 years of vacations. Can’t part with a one! Also CAN’T WAIT for the next book–hurry, scurry!!!
I get the photo bit! Every time I get a new computer it’s all about memory! xoxo
Hi Susan, I don’t know what your plans are after the book signing but…you are very close to a wonderfully magical spot. In Sandwich, NH there is a very very easy and quick hike up “Rattlesnake Mt.”. From the top, where there are nice rocks to sit on, is the MOST amazing view of the Squam Lakes. It’s the view that appeared in the movie “On Golden Pond” (one of my favorites). It is sooo worth walking up there – a photo extravaganza for you!
Enjoy NH 🌾🌿🍂🍃🍁
Thank you for the recommendation Martha! Maybe we can make it!
Dear Susan,
I found my copy of your book in my mailbox yesterday. What a treat. It is heavy. I did not realize how much you packed into it. I just started flipping through all over the place I was so excited to get started. I have to calm down and start reading from the beginning. The detail is unbelievable, especially since it is ALL written by hand. How generous of you to share all your treasured family pictures with all of us. Can’t wait for book 2. Wish I was there in your van also, since I love the New England area and have not been there for years.
I’ve mentioned in other blogs that The Fairy Tale Girl isn’t ALL written by hand I just don’t want to leave the wrong impression ~ because this one seriously needed to be edited — something that couldn’t happen with the totally hand-written Fine Romance. So I had a font made to match the writing in A Fine Romance . . . It’s the first of my books not to be totally handwritten, so I had to think it through. But all the quotes, and lots of the little extra bits are hand written and watercolored, but the body of the book is actually done in my font. Not for speed, but this time, for accuracy. Which either worked or didn’t work so well, I’m not sure, but that’s what we tried for. xoxo
You fooled me! I had no idea it wasn’t handwritten. What a wonderful technical world we enjoy. Aren’t you so glad we weren’t born 100 years earlier and missed it all?
Mmmmm, that is always the question! I love some of the stuff I missed! But I love this too.
Brilliant! Bravo! I’d say it worked! Could have fooled me … and probably a lot of the girlfriends! Really looks hand done and accuracy = peace of mind 🙂 Not many of us can say we have our own custom, personalized font. Cool beans ♥ xo
I was amazed at the job the font maker did! I couldn’t tell the difference either ~ although it was a difficult choice, because I prefer to hand write it, really, takes the same amount of time, and there’s something about it I’ve always loved. Doesn’t feel like writing a book, feels like writing a really looooong letter!
Hello Susan!!
Love the photos and reading about your trip. I am a autumn girl all the way!!! Here in northern Illinois the sun is out but it is blustery!! I doors open so I can hear the wind howl & the leaves rustle. While I was reading your blog just now my three dogs began to raise such a ruckus!!! It was the mailman & he had my “Fairy Tale Girl” in his hands!!!!!!!!! I’m so excited yo being her tonight! I just finished re-reading a Fine Romance again last night so it’s perfect timing!! Enjoy the rest of your journey and have a wonderful time tomorrow with all those lucky New England Girlfriends!!
((hugs))
Laura
Thank you Laura!
Some how we can appreciate the light so much better when we walk through the darkness! I received the book on Wednesday. Skipped around in it a bit. I just love all the childhood pictures and stories as usual. I think a good childhood helps you have the foundation to get through the dark times as an adult.
The weather here is brutal, so we aren’t leaving for NE until next weekend. I am planning to meet you at the E. Sandwich…LOL…better than meeting you on or in a sandwich.
OX Margot
You’ll love Sandwich Margot!
I was always wondering why you took off to MV without even seeing it. Now it all makes sense.
Now I am still wondering where in the time line you had your shop in CA and how you learned to run your own business?? You have said it was homemade things, antiques and food items.
There is a shop in Norfolk, VA that you and the girlfriends would love called Table 7. LOTS of antique dishes and anything for setting the perfect table such as candles.
I learned how to run a business the same way I learned everything else! I loved my store in AG — I had it for three years, but then the economy was so bad, I was actually paying to keep it open. That didn’t seem like “good business” to me! That’s why I have so much respect for small retail businesses today, like the little bookstores. Knowing what I know, I can’t understand sometimes how they keep their doors open. I used to cut roses from my garden for my store everyday ~ my favorite part was decorating it with all the fun things we had in there. I even made the price tags with little stickers and ribbons! It was part antique store, and part useful gifts. There were “departments” — a kitchen with antique bowls and an old stove like mine, a holiday section with old tablecloths and candles and things, a baby/grandma section, a bath section, a garden section, a stationery section, with diaries and stickers and things like that . . . I should do a blog about it, I have lots of photos.
So now your web store has departments. You did that in your late 20s or early thirties. I guess when I move I will work from home, along with substitute teaching if they let me.
I did see one picture in a blog of your store. Cute!
Yes you should do a blog about the little store you had and all the fun you had making it unique. We would all love to read about it!
I knew I’d done one, just couldn’t find it . . . here you go Judy! — my store.
I went out to meet the postlady this morning and there it was – the priority mail envelope with THE FAIRY TALE GIRL! I’m thumbing and paging through it now, preparatory to reading. I am immensely tickled by at the label “Graphic Novel”.
I laugh to think what my nieces and nephews who read the standard graphic novels would say to this.
Then, when I check my email, there is a ‘blog posted’ notice! That makes the day pluperfect. Your trip photos are lovely and I envy you the chill. Here in Austin, we are still hitting the low 90’s. Today is a miracle as it is only 85 now, with a nice breeze and sunny skies. The first cool front signalling that summer WILL end.
Have a lovely time at your signing tomorrow. I know the Girlfriends will turn out in force!
Katherine
Yes, they don’t own “graphic novel!” 🙂 Thank you Katherine, stay cool out there!
Katherine, we are in North Texas and it was 54 this morning and supposed to be 79 for the high today. Light breeze blowing, absolutely wonderful end to the week. Lots of plans for the weekend, cleaning before Fall decorating, watching reruns of Fixer Upper, visiting a couple of Estate sales and making plans for my grandchildren, Jessica 4 and Marcus 6 who are coming all the way from Virginia for Halloween! Such fun. Life is good!
Oh my goodness – you must have driven right through our town! Your photo of the flag on the white fence in front of the yellow colonial… that is at what we call Four Corners in New London NH. The flag is there in remembrance of 9/11. The boards for the fence came from Exeter NH where they were originally purchased by a man who died on the flight that hit the World Trade Center. He never got the chance to put the fence up on his property. His widow sold the lumber it after his death and that’s how it came to New London. I never can drive through that intersection without “remembering”. Wishing you great success at the book signing tomorrow; I’m so close but cannot get there; however I do have my signed copy ( arrived on Monday! ) and I LOVE it! Thank you for all you share with us.
That is THE most interesting thing Gretchen. What a touching story. I’m so happy I have that picture. Just a wonderful memorial.
I just got my book (Your book!) this week and stayed up too late reading last night! It’s too good to put down! I know when I finish it, I’ll wish volume two was out already! Loving learning more about you and especially your artwork! What a treasure! Thank-you for sharing your story with us! Enjoy those warm fires!
Hugs,
Laura
Thank you Laura!
I haven’t read the book yet – just got it about 15 minutes ago! Yay! It looks lovely. I’m glad you included the sad parts of your life because we all have them! If you didn’t have any sad times, how could we relate to you? So thanks. Keep being your usual honest and beautiful self.
Hey Susan…Happy October ! Your road trip looked like perfection. I am waiting for my book to come….can’t wait ! It’s windy, cold and rainy here…hope it comes today so I can hunker down for the weekend and just bliss out !
Saw the post about people being upset about the hard parts…but you are right – it really makes you appreciate the “fairy tale” when it arrives ! Hugs !
Thank you, thank you for this little peek into your trip! Such lovely pictures, I enjoy them so much! I’m right in the middle of your book and I can hardly put it down! It’s so wonderful! Thank you and lots of love from Mary S in Fresno, California
Hi Susan! Wow! You made me feel right at home!! That’s all the kind of things we did on trips like that growing up!! Isn’t the New England countryside wonderful?? I can feel the crisp air from here!! Actually we have crisp air of our own today and I’m LOVING it!! AND. . . ta da!! I RECEIVED YOUR BOOK TODAY!! Yea!! (clapping and smiling). Can’t wait to dig into it!! Photo forthcoming!! I’ll write you a review after I read the book. I know I’m going to love it; couldn’t resist thumbing through. The artwork and layout are exquisite!!
Got to get back to work — our big event is just 2 weeks away! Yikes!!
But I’ll be taking breaks and reading your book! Thank you for all the joy and inspiration you are bringing!
Have a wonderful time as you continue your ramble through New Hampshire! Jane xo
Thank you Jane! xoxo
Dearest Sue….your photos are glorious! ♥ I love Vermont and have been on that very bridge. Your book arrived while I was in the hospital this week and my sweet hubster brought it to me because he knew how much it would cheer me up. Glad to say I’m home now and loving The Fairy Tale Girl!! ♥..♥..♥
Feel better soon Janis!!
Oh how I would love to take a trip through Vermont. It has all of my favorite things: barns, covered bridges, apples and chocolate. Did I say chocolate? Well yes, 2 or 3 times a year I order chocolate from Vermont Nut-free Chocolate and it’s the best! Every time I receive a box from there, I dream about what it looks like in Vermont. And now you’ve shown me through all your wonderful photos! Thank you!
It’s even better than what I showed — mostly what stands out is how CLEAN it is!!! Beautiful architecture, charming little towns, lots of my favorite kinds of houses.
It arrived!!!!!! It windy and chilly and the cozy fireplace beckons. So guess what I am doing tonight…..you guessed it I am curling up with “The Fairytale Girl”… See you soon
Xox
JUST GOT THE BOOK AND ENJOYING IT. A WONDERFUL READ.
It is a dreary, cold day here in Michigan, when what to my surprise, the doorbell rang and there with my favorite mailman was the package I have been looking for….The Fairy Tale Girl! Can’t wait to curl up under a quilt and read, read, and read some more with my Earl Grey tea in my favorite flowered mug. Ahhh….bliss! Not only are you talented,
but you hang out with talented people. Lowely is certainly one of them….Hi from Michigan to her also. Oh, the gorgeous pictures! God’s canvases are beyond description! By the way, we also got to see the eclipse. Awesome! Stay safe on your trip…praying hurricane Joaquin does not give the island a bad time. You are in our prayers. Love and blessings are speeding to you and yours.
Lots of talent on Martha’s Vineyard, to live there a person has to figure out how to make their own way. There’s no industry, just not a lot going on, so all of my girlfriends are wonderful cooks, some are caterers, and all of them are artists in their own ways. Thank you dear Lin xoxo
Dear Susan — what an incredible gift to have a new blog post to read! It’s a dreary Friday here in Tennessee with worries about the upcoming stormy weekend. Your post reminds us all of the beauty and peace that fall brings with its cascade of colors. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
You are so welcome Robin, wishing you a quiet peaceful weekend!
Wow! So pretty! I know. I know the heartbreak got you to the now, but it was hard to read (well, easy to read your beautiful writing but . . . ) the sadness. I’m the one who said that I have to recover and then write another review. I read the end of The Fairy Tale Girl again this morning and I love the parents parts. I love the nostalgia. Seriously, how are we going to WAIT for MAY? It’s a beautiful memoir, Susan. It really is! You are so open and honest and it’s such a testament to keeping a diary/journal and taking photos. Reading about your cooking and your homekeeping in your early years made my heart sing. So, thank you for following your heart and for giving us the sweet anticipation we’ll have as we excitedly wait for May! God be with you on your road trip!
I’m going to hurry with the second book! I want everyone to see what happens next!
Loved seeing the juxtaposition of Outlander and The Fairy Tale Girl!
Looking forward to reading it during ‘Droughtlander Part Deux’ and re-re-re-re-reading the Gabaldon books. Both of you authors are extra special!
All the best!
I know, what a pair! 🙂 xoxo
Oh, Susan!
Your photos remind me of our visit to Lake Winni last October. We stayed at the same inn and took similar photos from our balcony. Did you get a chance to eat at CAMP there? Very fun decor and yummy food. Also, when we visited the bookstore they had your book on display. When I mentioned I was a big fan of yours, they told me that you were just as sweet as we all would expect. YAY! (I knew it, of course.) Meanwhile, I am stuck in SoCal where it is still hot and sunny. The good news is your new book should be arriving very soon now!
Haven’t eaten at CAMP yet, but had an amazing dinner last night at Lavinias! Really delicious food, for your next trip!
Thanks for the Meredith dining recommendation, Susan. Meanwhile, your book arrived yesterday and rain is predicted in …can you believe it …SoCal tomorrow! I look forward to some rainy day reading. Next time you visit Meredith, besides CAMP you should try Hart’s Turkey Farm restaurant. Great old fashioned turkey dinners and the dining rooms are covered with turkey platters the owner collected over the years.
Jerri
San Juan Capistrano
We did!!! Delicious too! Very “Thanksgiving” and with this weather, we were ready for it!
Boo! I’ll have to wait till November when I get home to read my book. The post office didn’t forward it to me in AZ! I’m so bummed, but then again I’ll have something to look forward to!! Besides sleeping in my own bed again. *L* I know it will be safely waiting for me. My prayers go out to all on the east coast! There has been a lot of rain in NC where I live on the coast as well as other states. I hope the hurricane just turns out over the ocean and doesn’t cause damage, and the rain and wind aren’t bad. I’m a little afraid of trees falling around my house. Good thing I have a good friend that will check it for me. Hugs to all.
Terrible PO! Get the good friend tree-checker to send you the book? xoxo
Hi Susan – I am just starting your book, but I have a fairytale ending in my life, too. I love that you said “It’s bringing yourself out of sadness that is the true accomplishment in anyone’s life” because I know that has been my big accomplishment! And now, I am living the fairytale with a lovely man. We married in May – I at 53, he at 61 – and we are HAPPY,HAPPY, HAPPY! Thank you for having the courage to tell the hard parts so people can see that it’s never too late to live happily ever after! Enjoy your trip, but I know the best part is coming HOME!
Never too late ever ever! xoxo And yes, I am having Kitty withdrawals, can’t way to go home!
🙂
Susan, I loved your book and couldn’t get a thing done untill I finished reading it! You are a serious distraction (in a good way)! It’s a “keeper ” !
Yay! Thank you Elaine!
Oh what a beautiful Fall drive the both of you have had!
Just came back today from our Pismo Beach trip…..love that place and plan to move up there in next couple of years. So my husband asked me yesterday while driving over to Arryo Grande on Branch St….is this street named after Susan Branch??? Like how did he think that up before me??? Sure looks like it could, Arryo Gande has your look everywhere…we had breakfast at Village St Cafe…one more thing…My Susan books were here to greet me! They are heavy….full of life.
Xxoo
Cindy
I used to have a store there and loved that it was on Branch Street! But no, that was named after a local family, not mine or Cliff’s but another Branch!
Aww, well I will always think of you dear Susan when I find myself on Branch Street in the years to come…tonight’s the night, suppose to start sprinkling here, finally, the OC of Calif…I begin to read Fairy Tale Girl….excited!! xxoo
I have so enjoyed my book. I’m taking it slowly and savoring it. Yes, some parts aren’t easy but only because we love you and feel your pain with you. But without that pain you never would have moved to Martha’s Vineyard met your true soul mate with a beret!! 🙂
I think it’s awesome you went to Lake Winnipesaukee. I live near a Lake Winnepesaukah. It’s a very small lake with an amusement park built around it. It has been here for as long as I can remember and was only recently bought by Six Flags and renovated. Just funny the two names are so similar.
I wonder if there’s a connection, they’re like the yin and the yang of the Winni-world!
And then there is Lake Winnebago! LOL Winne is the Indian work for Lake. When I moved to NH, I was told Winnepesaukee meant lake in a beautiful place. I agreed, but asked what could BAGO mean? That lake is in Wisconsin near where I went to college. UW-Oshkosh. The city of Oshkosh is named for Chief Oshkosh, who lived on the northeast side of the lake.
My book came in the mail Weds. afternoon. At 8pm I was making cookies to go with my tea so that I could read it in perfect comfort. I finished it yesterday and it was wonderful, as expected! I have to say though, knowing how things were going to go for you and cliff from the very beginning, I could NOT bring myself to like him even the tiniest bit despite how kindly you wrote him. I just kept wanting him gone. (Team Susan all the way! )
Loved everything else though. The watercolors (as always) were beautiful, the handwriting even prettier than last time, and getting to see some of your personal pictures from when you were younger was such fun! My favorite part though was the way you took us through your generation. I’m 31 and I’m often torn between the “good ‘ol days” of marriage and family (your childhood) and the independence that came out of the feminist movement. I have to say, after having read your book, I’m grateful for both in a way I never thought I would be. Without childhoods like yours, we wouldn’t know what we were missing if we chose the full on feminist route. But without the “feminists” we’d have to work even harder then we currently do to carve out our own little niches. Thanks to women like you, I have a lovely mix of both: a supportive husband who adores his wife and kids, a place to call home where I can cook, tidy, and raise my little ones, AND the freedom to try new things and pursue my different interests while being fully loved and supported for who I am.
Thank you for your beautiful book Susan! I cannot wait to read the next one!
xo
Tatiana
Makes me cry Tatiana, I’m so proud of you! xoxo Thank you so much!
Hi Susan!
Thank you so much for your new book! I was planning on saving it for our trip to New England next week, but I opened it and read it straight through! I could not put it down – it is a wonderful book, and I am so glad we know that things are so much better for you now. It is a page turner and I can’t wait for the next one!
XO, Lucy
The next one is so fun, starting over is quite an interesting thing!
Beautiful pictures! The day I have a blog from you is a special day.
Happy to hear that Edie. xoxo
Loved your post! Am reading the book and loving it – trying to read it slow, so it will last longer. Can relate to going through the tough times to better enjoy and appreciate the good….. My lovely second marriage is such a blessing. Hope you come through Lincoln, Nebraska next year on your cross country trip!
We’ll try Liz!
The next time you’re in CA you must head north to Mt. Shasta. We actually have Falls much like the east coast with all the beautiful colors. We have a vacation rental (Cold Creek Farm) with visitors from all over, that have become great friends…….you see my dream was much like yours, a girl from S. CA wanting to own a B and B on Martha’s Vinyard! My husband who knows me best, said I’d never survive a Winter there! Anyway long story, short we have the next best thing ! Thanks for sharing your lovely life with us!
I have taken the train around Mt. Shasta and I think it’s the prettiest of all the train rides, even the one through the Rockies. Even the one down the coast of CA. It’s just gorgeous up there. One day we need to drive it!
What a lovely getaway with your fabulous neighbor Lowely! I have no doubt that your new books will be a huge success! I was going to get my copy’s from our local bookstore—even though it meant they wouldn’t be autographed—-sadly they are going out of business !!! It’s a new world , nothing stays the same—-so glad to see that you & Joe are able to adapt to the changing times ! You deserve only good things , because of your positive uplifting outlook on life!!!
I’m so sorry. I love the local stores . . . so many of them going. Dumb. What a colorless world it will be without them. Enjoying what we have . . . there’s going to be a craft show outside the bookstore I’m signing at today . . . hope I get to go through it!
I LOVE – LOVE – LOVE The Fairy Tale Girl. I finished reading it yesterday and wanted to post my approval on your next blog. So glad you wrote about your life with the good and the bad. But isn’t that life? I also grew up near where you did but just over the hill in West LA near Sawtelle and National, so I could really relate to your experiences. I am older and graduated in 1960. Your book took me down memory lane also. I so enjoyed your pictures of New England and someday I hope to go there. We all love it that you share your life with us.
That’s life and to change one thing would be to change it all, and no way would I want that! Thank you Sharon!
Your post are so Cozy and Homespun! Just love to hear from you! I want to order you Fairy Tale Girl Book soon!
Thanks Marlynne! Love the way your name is spelled!
I received my book last week and put it on the end table by my couch. As excited as I was to receive it, I knew if I started reading it, I would finish it in a day and I had waited so long for it! So…..I left it on the table for a few days and would just stare at it lovingly! Alas, I caved and inhaled every inch of it! Thank you for this book and I have already told my husband what I want for Mother’s Day! Oh, the inside cover is excellent! I was sure that lock of baby hair was real! Thanks again! Nancy
Real at my house and almost real at yours!
Hi Susan! Love your beautiful pictures in this blog! But even better than your pictures, is your new book in my hot little hands!! It arrived yesterday and I started reading it last night, with a hot cup of tea – had to set the right mood, of course. I want to enjoy each page, so am not going to read fast, but linger on the pictures and everything wonderful that have you have included. Thank you for sharing your life with us and for putting it all into such a creative format. I love it!! Enjoy your travels 🙂
Thank you Lee! xoxo
I live just one town over and am so excited to meet you tomorrow! Welcome to central New Hampshire, and may I say, we are happy you’re here!
Happy to meet you today Tim, it’s a gorgeous day, no rain!!
dearest Susan.
i cannot thank you enough for sharing your life with us …
my copy of ‘the Fairytale Girl’ arrived on Tuesday….
i’m almost done the first read through…
seems a few of us ‘put all our eggs in one basket’…only to have that basket turned upside down…but the best omelet never was made with out a few cracked shells…yes?
hugs hugs and more hugs….from here.
wind is blowing the leaves around tonight..but the fire is warm and the reading is soon to commence!
XOXO Thank you Diana, so right!
The Fairy Tale Girl is everything I thought it would be, Susan. I usually read a book fast as lightening the first time through and then go back and read it again, but not this time. This is one that must be savored slowly in a deliberate sort of way. And yes, hard times make us so much more appreciative of the good times that come our way. Hoping you have a capital time tomorrow. How could you not with such loyal fans crowding into Innisfree Books to see you? Be safe on the way home… Sara
So nice to hear from you Sara, and thank you!!
Oh you make me soooooooooo excited for vacation now!! My husband & I are leaving Sunday for the coast of Maine for 3 days then going to the in-laws in central Maine until Friday!! Oh….and we are going the “back way” through Vermont!! I can’t wait to see all the leaves and scenery. (Even though I’ve seen it many times in the past 22+ years) it is our first vacation without kids. So it is a happy/sad vacation. Enjoy the rest of your road trip!! I’ll be reading a Fairy Tale Girl on my down time this week. Twice the excitement!!!
You are going to love it!!! The leaves will be even more colorful for you! Thank you Kelli!
Ah, New England gets me yearnin’ and burnin’ with desire to be there. Just spent a couple of days in CT and they definitely were not enough! Wish I could be at the bookstore tomorrow. Have a grand time!
Thank you, I’m excited!
My heart beat really hard when I got your book yesterday. Could not wait to start and read101 pages before sleep. I am 66 yrs old and related to your view of the 60s and 70s and had a first husband almost the same! Oh how I love your books ! I love everything about them. Can’t wait for reading time tonight and for the next book. Keep them commin. I relate!!!
Yay Suzanne, so glad to hear that!
My book was on the front doorstep when I got home today from last minute shopping for our trip to the east coast. We leave tomorrow night and I am busy packing but I just couldn’t resist sitting and looking through it. It looks wonderful and I can’t wait to get on that plane and get cozy (is that possible on a plane?) so I can really start reading. I especially loved the inside with the baby book information. I don’t even know if parents fill those out anymore. I do have one for each of my children and also the one that my mother kept about me. They are so fun to look at. Your travel pictures are beautiful and we will be going through some of those states so now I know what amazing sights we will see.
Travel safely Judy! A plane is probably the best place (or the worst ha-ha) to start this book!
I am having a very hard time being patient…have been in Colorado watching our three year old grandson ( something I adore doing!) and my copy of your book arrived back home in Wisconsin! Hubby has already put it into the van so he does not forget to bring it with when he picks me up at the airport…I cannot wait! Thank you, Susan, for making all our lives so much brighter…smiles and hugs for you and Joe.
Very cute Nancy, you’ll have it at the airport! Have fun with your grandson!
I thoroughly enjoyed your new book. I think a lot of women will be able to relate to many parts of it. I left my “Cliff” too at age 33 for similar reasons, but quickly found my “Joe” and am now very happily married. Loved reading how it was to grow up with 7 siblings and how much fun you had with your parents. They taught all of you so well. Loved the real pictures, too. It was neat learning how everything began with your artwork. Enjoyed the full length Beatles story. I recognized most of the lyrics mentioned in your book; that was fun, too, to read it and have the music of songs I haven’t heard in years go through my mind.
When I first saw your Summer Book I fell in love with your artwork, and I’m so glad you’ve done more than cookbooks. I have all of your books.
I’m glad to say you weren’t the last generation of mom home waiting with cookies after school. To this day, when it rains, my mouth waters for my mom’s homemade chocolate chip cookies hot out of the oven at 3:15 pm. So I’ve promised myself that I am going to do better with keeping that tradition alive this year (and we homeschool). I’m glad it is supposed to rain a lot this year in CA!
My 9 yo son asked me why I like you so much. “I like how she turns a phrase, I like the homey and beautiful pictures she posts, I like her artwork, I like her stories.” “But do you like HER? Have you met her?” “Yes, I like her! And yes, I have met her!” (when you spoke twice in CA a few years ago).
One last thing: A few weeks ago I had a bad day. Everything went wrong. It was our last day of vacation coming home from Hearst Castle and Cambria, and we had problems with food, stomachs, the car, traffic, etc. Six hours later we were only in Ventura. We stopped for food. It was no good. So we went for pizza. We were still several hours from home. I was road weary. My son patted my arms and started singing to the tune of Father Abraham, “Susan Branch, Susan Branch, just think about Susan Branch. Susan Branch, Susan Branch, when we get home you can read Susan Branch.” Yes, that put a smile on my face!
And just one hour ago we discovered that his Minecraft party decorations, Steve Head, and flowering birthday candle (which was a surprise), had been stolen off our porch last Saturday (I just checked on when it was ever going to be delivered). I was sad because we cannot re-order in time for his party on Oct. 10 and nothing is in stores. But again, he just patted my arm and said, “I’m sorry mom. I would have liked it. But it is okay. You just go and read Susan Branch.” What a little grown-up! I am more disappointed than he is! So we will make do and get creative with what we have.
Looking forward to that Willard!
Out of the mouths of babes . . . so cute, give that boy a big birthday hug for me, please. xoxo
What fun you must be having! Love all the colors, as they are changing! Those photos of the creek are picture perfect..I could just see a painting of that hanging on anyone’s wall! Gorgeous! Oh, who doesn’t love having a fireplace? Especially on a cool night. I got my book and am really enjoying it! A person sometimes does have to go through some pain to appreciate the love! Enjoy your trip home! Blessings…
Thanks Gert! xoxo
Yeah! Another peaceful day in the life of my friend from the east…..
thank you for the little break 🙂
safe travels
Thanks for the GORGEOUS photos. I got my book today; can hardly wait to start it!! And sure hope you can make it out here next year!!!
I’m sure we will!
Never having been to the East Coast (my dream), please know how much I enjoyed your photographs of Vermont! (One little fun thing I want to do is see the Vermont Country Store; I think it’s in Weston or Rockingham or maybe both. I’ve been ordering stuff from them for YEARS, like hard-to-find foods from childhood and lots of other nostalgia/usable items.) The way you described things, I can almost feel the colder days you’re experiencing on your road trip. I also always love how you insert your illustrations along with the photos; it makes for such delightful reading here on the blog and I appreciate the time and effort you make for us readers.
Good luck with the book signing and, oh wow, I’m looking forward to your Spring-2016 trip and hoping I’m one of the girlfriends who finally gets to meet you as you make your way west again, since I missed things in Cayucos and Santa Barbara last time.
One last thing, Susan, don’t let the occasional negative comment in ‘reviews’ get you down and take away your joy at this immense achievement of yours. There’s always a bad apple in the barrel but I wish readers might just try to understand that this is a departure from your previous books…it’s the back story, the real story of the person/author behind the pages; an autobiography, if you will, and nobody has a 100% rosy life because life itself can’t be 100% rosy; WAIT, you already said that but, I mean, C’MON, how can a reader not know this, i.e. know the diff? I say, shrug it off and concentrate on what are going to be multiple 5-star reviews (you’ll need an applause meter).
Glad you can get out before the snowy winter sets in, and looking forward to your updates from home as time goes on. I went off the diet and ordered a pumpkin milkshake today as my pumpkin cravings refuse, so far, to dial down.
Big Friday reveal for us in SoCal somewhere north of the big city of L.A.: First day in weeks we didn’t break 90 degrees; we peaked at 89. I’m feeling very encouraged and am hoping it’s a promising trend! In town, we have Floss Silk Trees in bloom which are tall trees chock full of dark pink flowers, falling fast in the wind (I guess our own version of autumn leaves!)…so at least we do have SOME color in our dry, drought-y, rainless world here, with those lovely pink trees signaling Fall arrival.
We always wanted to go to the Vermont Country Store too, and we just did. I’ll put up some pictures soon. Very interesting. Very much of a destination for lots of people. You are not alone in that store! 🙂 I think I’d like to see it in the Winter! Love the floss silk trees too! Nice version of autumn leaves! xoxo
Well THE BOOK came on Thursday. An early birthday gift to me, from me! My birthday is Sun. 10/4. I can’t wait to read it! I also look forward to the spring at Vromans Books for the next book signing! Seeing you in person is always a great treat!
Of course those of us who have been living in 100 degree weather (here in So.Calif) wish we could be in New England with you. I can smell the wet leaves and feel the cold crisp air. But I grew up in New Jersey and it was a dream to live here! I only think I miss the changing seasons.
Happy Birthday tomorrow Kirsten! I try to bring those wet leaves your way . . . just for a little relief. I know it’s been way too hot out there for way too long. xoxo
Happy Birthday, Kirsten! My birthday is Mon, the 5th and my copy of Fairytale girl & a bag of Fairytale Tea is being saved too! Also with you on the weather-been equally unpleasant just North of the Capitol. At least the roadside strawberry stands have been open still but to have a real Fall would be soooo nice!
Happy Birthday to you too Melinda!
Started reading your book. I have written before re your calendar paper preference. Kudos to you on the quality of the paper in your wonderful book. Don’t know why paper quality means so much to me but evidently it is important to you also. It has such a quality feel to it. Along with your art work, writing and calligraphy it is just PERFECT!! As I knew it would be. Happy to see you are having better weather on your trip than I am having on mine in Myrtle Beach – rain and windy hurricane. But cozy inside reading your book! CONGRATS 🍎🍎
You are so right Joan, I love paper almost as much as what goes on it! We went back and forth on this one only because it was really expensive, but I just could not deal with that other paper they offered, so just like getting “Made in America” on my book, it was more expensive, but we’re worth it! And I’m so glad we did. This morning at 7 am, we have clear skies, cold temps, and whistling wind for the book signing today! No rain, hallelujah! Stay dry down there! I wonder if we will see any of it on the Island when we go home tomorrow?
Beautiful photos! Fall in Vermont is like a fairie tale. Were there many roadside stands full of apples? I’m in the mood for making applesauce and apple butter. It’s that cozy time of year just beginning!
TONS of roadside stands . . . plus windfall apples all over the place!
Susan,
I finished the book in a day. It was great. I really identified with your childhood and how you felt about things even though I am about 5 years younger. I did go to college to be a teacher but all I really wanted was to be a wife and mom. I got my wish and am still a fairy tale girl. I’ll be married to my prince for 38 yrs. and we have a wonderful daughter and now son in law. Home is my passion. I got to be a stay at home wife for 14 years. Worked the next 15 and now am back at home retired and loving every day. Thanks for letting me know that wanting and living that kind of life was a good thing. Too many people told me I was crazy for wanting it. But I think today’s kids are missing so much with everybody at work and no one at home. Our mothers may have given up careers but life was less of a rat race then because of it. Thanks for bringing back fond memories for me.
I agree. It’s really wonderful to have both ~ if that’s what someone prefers, it’s the “no choice” that isn’t so good!
Hi, Bobbie! Just had to tell you that the life you wanted and lived is not only a good thing, but a great one. Your words touched my heart as I am also a full time mom and glad to forgo anything an extra paycheck would bring.
Enjoy your retirement time to the fullest after working for 29 years!
Kids with a parent at home, bring forth kids with a parent at home, and it all just has to make the world a better place! It’s a great thing you are doing. I wish everyone had that opportunity.
Without the rain there could be no rainbow. The book is wonderful, though sad too. But your shining heart kept us company all the way through. Wonderful!
Thank you Ardi!
How grateful I am of the photo tour of the REAL Fall. So many wonderful things in here California but waiting for Fall can be agonizing! So I play “pretend” and go to your blog for a happy place. May you & Joe and your delightful friends have nothing short of a wonderful trip, as this beautiful breather is well deserved.
Received my Fairy Tale Girl but actually waiting…..the tea arrived sometime ago and have saved it for when the book arrived. Now saving both for my birthday on Monday; with a vintage quilt, I’m looking forward to a s’marvelous afternoon!
Happy Fall! melinda
I love the way you’re planning your birthday!
Just finished “our” book. What can I say….just wonderful. I laughed and cried, things you wrote about just hit home with me and I LOVED IT!!!! I almost wish I had waited to buy it, almost, because if I had waited to buy it when the next part is available…..I could have finished reading ‘The Fairy Tale Girl’ and then just dive into ‘Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams’😉 No waiting. Can you tell that I’m sort of impatient? On a sad note, my daughter and her fiancé just broke up 😞, I will be giving her a copy of this book when she is ready so that she can see that no matter what, fairy tales can and do come true, and broken hearts 💔 can be mended 💝 Thank you Susan XOXO
Yes, oh so sad. Talking to Diana about the book the other day, we used to feel like we had a choice of either get married or break up!! Hugs to you and your daughter. xoxo
Hello Susan! Thanks for sharing your wonderful trip with us! I received my book yesterday… so excited to read it, but for now, I’m just looking at it and smiling knowing a treat is in store for me. Thank you.
Sitting in my house which is surrounded by flood waters generated by the nor’easter hitting our beach (Bethany Beach) in Delaware. I am recuping from knee replacement surgery, so for all of those reasons cannot wait to take your book from the mailman’s hand! MW, have immensely enjoyed being on the road trip with you and the others, enjoying New England in the Fall. Thank you for sharing and safe travels until you are back home with your kitties.
Oh boy, I hope the knee feels better and the flood waters are retreating, a cool breezes are starting to come through for you Lorie! Our boats to the Island are not running today, at least so far, so Joe and I may not get home until tomorrow. Storms. Bah. Humbug!
PS–to all you lucky-duck Girlfriends who get to be at the Book signing today: have a wonderful, wonderful time!
Dear Sweet Susan,
I am always overjoyed to see a new blog from you and you did not disappoint this time (and have not ever disappointed me) for sure! We just returned from a trip to the mountains of CO and the Aspen trees were turning their amazing yellow golden color. Wish we could all be right there with you traveling along in a convoy of cars with little banners saying, “Fairy Tale Girls United!” Now that would be fun! Your book comes next week according to Amazon and I can’t wait. We don’t have a local bookstore anymore here in our town. I miss being able to walk into the bookstore and browse. We do have a wonderful library and are so blessed in that way. Hope you have a great time today with everyone at the signing and a safe trip home filled with autumn color!
Love those Aspens in the fall, they sound as pretty as they look!