I knew you were coming so I got ready! First off, click here for my new theme MUSICA (which you will understand if you’ve read the Willard ~ eeeek!). 🙂
And now, HELLO WILLARD PEOPLE! Welcome to the Blog! 
Since I wrote the Newsletter, guess what!? So excited and happy to tell you, that the Giveaway I mentioned has just been doubled ~ because look what showed up ↓
Do you know what this is? It’s
in Chinese!
Here are my two children meeting for the first time.♥
Yes! It’s the just published (but only in China) Chinese version of our book A Fine Romance, Falling in Love with the English 
Countryside. Now I have the extreme privilege, among other things, of taking the Chinese people up to Hilltop to see Beatrix Potter’s legacy!
Who would have ever thought it possible!? I’ve been pouring over the book, looking at all the details. They did such a nice job. They even kept the watercolored first letters on every page because they thought they “looked pretty!” Even when I mentioned that it might not make sense in Chinese because those first letters have nothing to do with the text ~ they still wanted them which is one reason I really like this publisher!
It’s almost, page for page, exactly like the English version…and it’s a real book you can hold in your hands, because did you know, studies are showing that reading “real” books is healthier and increases intelligence? They are!
See the little writing around the poppy? And the captions? They made sure all the movies were there and the music too! And where there are English words,they used a cute little handwriting font.
I’m trying to see it through their eyes. I wonder if they say the same stuff to each other in China? I bet they do.
Now they know more about us than I ever imagined. They know that there are idiots all OVER the world. Isn’t that funny? I am happy to be an idiot in the quest for world peace.♥ 
Like this, now they know this! I signed the contract for this book over a year ago, but I didn’t realize how I 
would feel when it actually arrived. I’m honored, but not used to it yet. None of my other books have ever been in any language except English . . . But as the song goes, you are my lucky star . . .⭐️
Here’s the recipe for Rachel’s Lemon Butter cookies! There 
will be people in China eating Rachel’s cookies! I wonder if they changed the part about how Joe and I met and all of that ~ the one hotel room, the robe like armor, etc. Maybe one of you reads Chinese and can tell us!
I get to take them to Siobhan’s house too! I wonder if they have fairy lights and pink sofas in their kitchens the way Siobhan does? Probably they do! I hope some of them write me!
Notice the little bits and pieces, some of the English writing is still there, all the hearts, the captions, the watercolored underlines, the little arrows, are all still there. They took such good care! What a small world it is.♥
Here we are about to discover King Richard’s childhood castle, remember? And the arrows pointing to the castle ruins are still there! That Chinese lettering is so cute! If I would have been born in China I would have LOVED that handwriting. It’s like little pictures. They must all be artists over there!
Here’s the part in the book where I saw the Irish seagulls as the Queen Mary 2 passed under Ireland . . . in Chinese! I immediately sent a copy to the Thomas Crane Public Library because I was told they have a very large Chinese population in the Quincy (near Boston) area . . . it will be a surprise, I hope they like it!
And the rest of the books I kept. So far. I mean it’s only been a couple of days.
Oops, there’s one right now!
Look at that watercolored title! So my thought is that we might have a little east meets west as our second 
Giveaway, and include, with a signed copy of our rare Chinese Romance book, a canister of that delicious Gingerbread Tea I mentioned in the Willard, perfect for the season! So even if you can’t read Chinese, you can have a cup of tea and look at the pictures! So now when you leave a comment, you’ll be entered for Two Giveaways, not just one . . . there will be Two Lucky Winners. We just doubled the odds!
A LIFE SHARED IS A JOY DOUBLED. (OR QUADRUPLED, OR in the case of this Blog? MUCH MORE.)
All the books in both of these Giveaways can be personalized just the way you’d like, including the out-of-print Christmas from the Heart of the Home. Which means you might have some pretty good little gifts here ~ a mug and some fairy tales are always appreciated at the holidays!
And you might be asking, will we be selling the Chinese book in our web store? And the answer is, yes, kinda. We got a few of them, not very many, they are in our web store 
right now . . . but they are expensive which probably has something to do with our dollar and their (what is it? Yen?). Plus, they cost a LOT to ship them over . . . so we don’t figure we’ll run out of what we have too soon. But IF we do run out, and IF you don’t get one and IF you still want one, the new plan is that we will then take preorders so we 
know how many to get, and do a one-time purchase just for our Blog Girls. We’re not going to carry this book because of the cost, which is something around $40 each, but check it out if you think it’s something you might want to have. I don’t think there will be too many of them here in America, and they can always be an interesting conversation piece!
So now, let’s change the subject and do a little
Shall we? With Mas Musica? Oui! I’ve always just naturally gathered healthful winter fat to protect myself against wolves and starvation in the freezing cold, but already 
this year, from all the sitting, I’m afraid I could feed an entire wolf pack all by myself. So I’m looking to get a little healthier so that when I finish Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams (BTW, that’s a new little piece of art I did for the book yesterday ~ of me, ←on the plane, landing in Boston, singing my fear song ~ it’s dawn outside that window, on a very stormy day ~ but I digress big time), I can go out on the road and you will still recognize me! So in the quest for that, I thought I’d give you Joe’s recipe for the most delicious, crunchy tender salmon steaks in the world!
And just in case you’d like to make this, but good salmon is hard to come by in your neck of the woods, call Louie at the Net Result here on the Island (1-800-394-6071 and tell him Joey sent you) and he will overnight you the most delicious fresh fish imaginable, in a box also filled with Martha’s Vineyard sea air for which, believe it or not, he charges NOTHING ~ and they have everything, including oysters, clams, and Lobsters, fresh cod, and this delicious salmon.
The magic in well cooked salmon is in the crust! And no one does it better than Joe.
If I was the one making this, I would ask Louie to cut off the skin for me. But Joe knows just what he’s doing . . . gets his sharp little knife under there and wastes not a shred. You definitely want the skin off so you can make it crusty on both sides.
Then he rinses it in cold water and pats it very dry with paper towels.
And cuts it into steaks
which he liberally peppers and sprinkles sea salt over . .
He put the tiniest bit of olive oil in the pan — 2 tsp. — and heated it over high heat until, as he put it, the pan was “shimmering.” This is what a shimmering pan looks like.
He added the fish to the shimmering pan, with the skin-side up, he then salted and peppered that side. The salmon cooked, uncovered, over medium high heat for about eight minutes until they were toasty brown. For good browning, none of the pieces should be touching each other. And if you have a thinner piece, like we did, make sure it cooks for a shorter amount of time.
When he turned them over, they looked like this. Already I want to pick off a piece of the crunchy crust, that little piece hanging off the left end of the piece in the front would be perfect thank you.
But I didn’t have long to wait. Another four minutes on that other side, and voila! Once again, Joe B. Hall shows 
his cooking genius, totally up to the magic.♥ Tender in the middle, crisp on the outside, healthy all over! Serve it with a squeeze of lemon and a crisp green salad and you will go to bed laughing at how healthy you are.
Alrighty then! I’ve now managed to swallow up a large chunk of your busy day! I hope I’m satisfied. I COULD actually go on! I have tablescapes to show you, light and shadows, quilts! Oh yes, there will be more.
OK, I hear you, but one more thing, please don’t worry if you haven’t gotten your Willard yet, they take four days 
to all go out, if you’ve signed up, but haven’t gotten yours by Saturday, let us know ~ be sure to check your spam folder first.) ~ And be SURE to leave a comment at the bottom of this post (click on those tiniest letters that say comment) so you’ll be entered in the drawing for the GiveAways!
Oops, one more thing ~ I found this wonderful photograph I thought you might like to use as a screen saver for the season. Just click there. We’ll put it up in the web store under “Free Stuff” soon along with lots more festive things for the season ~ it’s that time of year!
Isn’t it gorgeous? We were just there a few months back ~ it’s Louisa May Alcott’s House, Orchard House, in the snow. So, romantic. Can’t you just see her and her sisters throwing snowballs in their long skirts? I’ll leave you (finally, whew!) with that lovely thought. Enjoy your day Girlfriends! God Bless our world, and especially beautiful Paris. ♥ XOXO
And don’t think I did this all by myself . . .
Thank you, Susan, for sharing your world and for making the rest of the world a better place. I received The Fairy Tale Girl on a Saturday morning and finished reading it Sunday. In the car, in the chicken coop, outside the goat pen … everywhere I had a bit of time to soak it all in. I can hardly wait for the next one! With so many awful things happening and so many people in trouble, it is a wonderful few moments we get to spend with you, Joe, Jack and Girl Kitty. You are the best.
Your friend, Cindy
I feel the same about you. The television is driving me mad these days. So interruptive and the spread of fear is terrible. Turned it OFF, I’m all Netflix all the time now. xoxo Sending love . . . SO happy you enjoyed the book!
SB – have you checked out Acorn TV? They have the best shows from the UK and Australia – A Place to Call Home is incredible – you’d love it and just as it finishes up its 3rd series down under in December, it begins to be shown on Acorn TV. They have TV shows, specials, documentaries, movies, its a treasure chest of great shows. I love it – a bit of “the old country”.
I’m not sure that I can think of anything more exciting than seeing one’s book printed in and entirely different language AND alphabet! Heck, I’d be so thrilled to see mine printed in ENGLISH that I don’t know what I’d do!
Love that photo of Louisa May Alcott’s house. The epitome of cozy if you ask me.
Finding myself in need of some comfort and coziness, I’ve broken out all of my Gladys Taber books and an reading all of the autumn-related chapters. It’s good to be reminded of all of the lovely little things in life, and Ms. Taber, along with you, Susan, are especially adept at providing such reminders.
Have a happy day!
You too Jake. XOXO
Good morning! How lucky you are to have Joe who cooks wonderful for you! The salmon looks divine. I have to chuckle because I’m lucky too… my husband Joe also does the cooking around here… thank goodness! Otherwise, it would be cheese and crackers every meal. 😉 Also, “my” Joe and I met and married later in life like you two. It was one of the reasons my mother gave me your “Fine Romance” book for Christmas. 😀 Enjoy your day!
Yes, feeling very lucky!
Whenever I read your blog, I feel as though I’ve stepped into your kitchen and am sitting at your table talking to a friend. Thank you for sharing so many lovely things in life with all of us.
Thank you for being here Joanie!
How wonderful to be in China (and Chinese). Over a billion people now have access to your book – that kinda blows my mind just thinking about it!
I will tell you that I am so looking forward to the sequel to Fairy Tale Girl!
Have a wonderful day!
Thank you Nancy!
Just LOVED Louisa May Alcott’s home when we visited there in October. I could visit it each season to see how it changes!
Wonderful place and you can really feel her and the family there.
Awake early with butterflies anxious to begin my day with you, hand dipped beeswax candles (the ones you have, thank you btw), something deliciously warm to drink and musica. Perfectly delicious for all the senses.
xoxo Thank you Sharon!
Thank you for the wonderful post once again, Susan!! 🙂
How exciting to have your book in Chinese!!! I’m so happy for you. I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Oh my goodness, what a treat! Loved how joyfully (as in full of joy and excitement) you have written about the Chinese version of “A Fine Romance” and giving us a taste (or close to it) of Joe’s kitchen magic.
The two of you in one kitchen– now that is an unbeatable attraction-the aroma the taste, the feast for the eyes – truly an “afternoon delight” (or whenever) .
If more magic comes this way, and my entry is selected, I will share the bounty with my cousin’s wife, recently widowed, mother of four wonderful children, wonderful grandchildren and great-grandchildren- a beacon of good sense and helpful advice all my life. She created homes and built lives out of limited resources and all with love , hard work and a belief in what is good in everyone’s life. You would like her a lot.
Thanks for a great and exciting start to the morning! Marty
Give that lovely person a hug from me please Marty. xoxo
Hi GF’s. It’s been a rather scary week. I’ve been to Paris several times, not to brag, but to think in reality of how beautiful that city really is. I remember walking through the city, in awe, thinking how I needed to remember each & every detail of the beauty of Paris. It’s horrible to think that the Parisians are now facing terror. Say an extra prayer for our world. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
I love the quote about my body making friends with my fat. So true! And that salmon looks good enough for my breakfast. I wish I could get the skin off as Joe does; he is very talented.
I DEVOURED The Fairy Tale Girl in 2 days after “suggesting” its purchase at the local library where I work part-time; ditto for A Fine Romance….. To HAVE my own copies would be glorious! I was introduced to your brilliant art in 1988 when a friend gifted me with a copy of Vineyard Seasons. How wonderful to have your vocation in art, cooking, entertainment and friendship! LOVE all your little quotes and suggestions for books and movies sprinkled throughout your books. It inspires me to search further and read more–currently “Mark Twain’s Helpful Hints for Good Living”. Eagerly looking forward to The Fairy Tale Girl sequel!
Thank you Barbara!!
Love It! Love Willard! Just Love it all!
Dear Susan,
Congratulations on the Chinese version of “A Fine Romance”. The Chinese characters have always reminded me of little people dancing across a page.
Looking forward to receiving my copy of Willard…I hope it’s a long one that I can enjoy over a cup of tea.
Wishing all a wonderful, peaceful day.
Dear Susan, Don’t care if I can understand Chinese, we love all your “stuff”. Would be thrilled to win anything.
Susan, when I heard your song, I thought you were going to tell us your books are going to be made into a movie. Wouldn’t that be wonderful! We love salmon and I usually microwave it but I think I’ll try Joe’s recipe. Won’t take much longer and the cripiness will be worth it. You must be so proud of the Chinese translation of your book. Lovely that they kept a little English in there, too. I truly believe that we are more alike than we are different. Laughter and tears are the same in any language.
And aren’t we lucky girls (and boys) to have a chance to win your giveaways. Enjoy your day everyone. I’m off to find (fish) me some salmon. Hugs.
Hi Susan, just received my Willard and was so excited to see that maybe there will be a movie! Such fun to anticipate all of it. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. Hugs.
…say what ?!?..your story may be turned in to a movie ??!.. I’m reading “comments” while patiently awaiting Willard’s arrival..I wanted to wait to comment until I received Willard but reading this made me excited !!.. your story would be a fantastic movie !! ..and , of course, Zooey D. would be perfect for playing you ( as I had mentioned before )…well, while I am here, I must say that the Chinese version of A Fine Romance is so beautiful and artful !!..you must be so proud and happy !!!.. also your two give a ways are very nice treasures !!.. thank you for our chances of winning!!.. I also need to make a shout out for Sherri !!..her patience was SO appreciated the other morning when I pre ordered your upcoming book and a few other items.. thank you again Sherri and thank you again Susan !! (from the bottom of my heart..with love, as always…!!)..you all give us so much faith and hope..
At this precise moment I’m wrapping up a copy of ‘A Fine Romance’ as a christmas gift for my cousin! I just popped by to check on the blog address so that I could pop it into the book when wallop!…serendipity hit me between the eyes 🙂
The chinese edition looks amazing, you must be so proud!
Like many people, I have resolved not to watch any news channels for the next few days; I feel the need to cocoon myself and re-connect with simple, uncomplicated pleasures such as wrapping up a gift for a loved one or listening to a well loved song from a happier time.
It’s a time for quiet reflection and a renewed appreciation of family, friends and home.
I wish you, Joe and the kitties all the joy of the coming season.
Yvonne.
As soon as your tweet came across that their was a new blog post up, I made a cup of tea and sat down to enjoy it. Now my days has started on a most marvelous note. I am making my grocery list now. We are having the kids over for supper tomorrow night and I am making your Chicken Enchiladas for supper–I can’t wait. Ta ta until Willard 🙂 !
Oh Susan, seeing A Fine Romance in Chinese is a lovely way to remember our commonality with the world. And now our hearts are in Paris grieving with them. Thank you for the blog, the give-away, the Willard, and the peace and joy you spread. Best wishes and happy Thanksgiving to you, Joe, and to the Girlfriends! XO
Oh Susan,
Would it be alright if my response is just a big ole’ happy sighhhhh after reading Willard and your blog share ? It’s what I do every time I receive Willard. Reading anything you write is just transportation direct to dreamy!
Much Gratitude, Love, and Joy,
Jenni in South Florida !
It’s always so much fun reading Willard and your blogs. It’s amazing how you can make me feel as though I am traveling with you on all your journeys. Thank you!
It’s always a delight to read your blog, I sooo look forward to it! Love the book in Chinese, the font is so pretty, an art form in itself and it’s amazing how they transcribed it. I think about you a lot Susan because if it wasn’t for you I would never know what an O’Keefe and Merritt stove was. Well for the last two years we’ve done a kitchen makeover and now I can proudly say the focal point in it is my new/old O & M stove. It cooks and bakes so amazingly and it gives such a warmth to our New England kitchen. People thought I was crazy for investing in a 50 year old stove but now they’re taken aback at how beautiful she is. I love to decorate the shelf on it as you do, each season I change the décor, although one item that’s always on it is my little chicken timer that I bought in your store….love it! Well congratulations on the printing of your book in Chinese that is really cool. Can’t wait for Isle of Dreams! Have a beautiful day! ~ East Longmeadow
YAY! You have what I consider to be the best stove on the planet. Heavy, cooks well, two ovens, doesn’t take up much space (comparatively) plus, is massive fabulous display unit for toys on top, dish towels on bottom. I think it’s like having a giant marshmallow in the kitchen. Our electricity goes out, but the beating heart and flame in that stove never does! Love it! Happy for you Suzanne!
I know it makes my work a bit more difficult, and commuting a hassle for a lot of people, but I just can’t WAIT for the first real snowfall! I live within spitting distance of a major highway, and except for the occasional blare of horns for the idiots driving too fast on the slippery roads, the snow muffles most of the usual noise, and picks up all the ambient light so that there is a shadowless light all around and you can walk in the woods at night and see a whole ‘nother world! And, for me, there is always such a sense of romance about it, even when I’m on my own. Anyway, your photo of the Alcotts’ house made me all the more dreamy for snow — as we are still enjoying a ridiculously warm (60º+) November! (Bet it will turn cold and wet for the Thanksgiving Day Parade here in New York!) (Geeze Louise, have I used enough exclamation marks?!) Enjoyed the post and looking forward to trying the salmon recipe! (Yikes, another one!)
Thank you for this needed sunshine today! I hope you will get some letters from China to see reactions to your book from yet another country! It was 60 degrees in Granger yesterday! I spent the day outside putting up my Christmas lights. They won’t be turned on until after Thanksgiving. Great to get it done before the freezing weather. Are you cooking the turkey this year? Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday! I’ve my turkey in the freezer, 22 lbs this year, and I can’t wait to get started. How lucky and blessed we are.
OOOHHHH the Chinese edition is a wonder – congratulations! What an amazing collaboration. I have to thank you for tickling my creativity, and desire to draw and paint more in the new year. This year I have been coloring! Love my coloring books and would be thrilled if you published one! Food for thought, this week before Thanksgiving. Blessings to all, Janet
I know you are so excited to have your book published in Chinese and I’m so pleased for you.
I too love the photo of Louisa May Alcotts’ house. It is a cozy, wonderful, other world picture of a time standing still.
I always seem to be at least ten steps behind everyone else, so forgive me for the question. I love the photos you show of your home, especially the ones that have your clothes line in front but at a distance. I was wondering if you could give us an simple blue print or a form of layout of your home?
Thanks
Kay
Well it’s like a long trailer, my studio is in the front, there’s a living room that goes from one side of the narrow part of the house to the other, then the big dining room with the little wood room next to it, in the back, the kitchen, then the pantry and the downstairs bathroom. Upstairs it’s four bedrooms and two staircases and a tiny landing where I have my sewing room.
Good morning! I made your butter cookies over the weekend for the kids who pop in here and there to do laundry and raid the cupboards. The cookies were a huge hit and made me mom of the month, Thanks!
I don’t doubt it a bit. . .
Dearest Susan,
Thank you VERY much for the delicious-sounding salmon recipe; I look forward to trying it.
It would be so lovely to win your most recent giveaway.
I have enjoyed your publications for years – especially the printed Willards you use to send via the post.
A few years ago you posted on your blog a Christmas story about your Grandmother visiting when you were a child. If I recall you said something about it reappearing in a future publication – has it been printed in any of your books yet? I remembe that there was a recipe(s) that I wanted to try to recreate, but when i searched for it on your blog I could not find it.
A blessed Thanksgiving to you & your family –
J.M.
I thought I would make that story into a little Christmas book, just waiting for time to do it! 🙂 Thank you for remembering it!
Under the comforter, two dogs keeping me warm…dreaming of Martha’s Vineyard…yes even in the rain turning to snow season! Your books, blog and Willard bring me to a different time and place. Looking forward to the sequel…pre-ordering is on my list of things to do! Thank you for sharing yourself with us!
That salmon looks delicious! Now, if only my husband was a chef. 😀
Thank you for the updates Sue! A movie WOW; wouldn’t that be fun! Love learning Joe’s technique for the salmon and plan to try that out pronto!
Thank you for the joy that your blog gives each time you put a new one up.
I think it’s great that your book is in Chinese. What a great way to share culture and ideas!
Wonderful post Susan!!
Loved seeing the book in Chinese. Yes, if only artists were in charge.
Imagine all the people. . . . . if we nurtured each one in the talent they were best at -what a wonderful world it would be. Thanks to you (and your Mom and Dad)
for nurturing the art in your soul.
As for me -in “reinvention-retirement” I teach two 10 year olds to sew.
They are crazy for it!!! They love to come here and love to sew.
We are now making the Elsa dress for their dolls. What a blast -you can’t imagine. xoxxo Peggy and Sparky in Madison
I would love to see little homemaking classes spring up all over this country. Home arts are the joy of living and lots of kids (Not YOUR kids, Girlfriends) are being denied access to this most uplifting and fulfilling of pastimes. It IS the little things in life. xoxo Good for you Peggy, they will NEVER forget you!
I am so excited about the Chinese book! I work for a Taiwanese company, Yang Ming and would love to win this for my office library!! The folks here all speak Chinese and they would love it! Thanks for this blog and looking forward to Willard and the new language!! 🙂
xoxoxo
Lisa
Beautiful book, and what a joy for you! Thank you for the visit. I am certainly a ‘real book’ person too! We visited Orchard House earlier this year, and now I can picture it in winter also.
Susan: You are truly amazing! Love everything you do. God Bless and Thank you!
so happy to hear of the success of ‘a fine romance’ and ‘fairy tale girl’!
can’t wait for ‘isle of dreams’!
i have savoured each and every one of your books……..
the latest willard news was glorious!
blessings to you and joe!
hugs from here.
Thank you for always generously sharing the joy!
One of my dearest friends has lived in China many years, and could read your Chinese version. If I should win, it would be a joy to send it to her 🙂
Hello sweet Susan!
I am so excited there is now A Fine Romance in Chinese!! The reason is because my husband served a two year mission for our church in Taiwan and he speaks and reads and writes Chinese!!! Woo hoo! I love making him talk even though he gets embarrassed hee hee!
Congratulations on having your book in China. I am sure the Chinese people will be so thrilled to have your book available in their language and will really enjoy reading it!!!
I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of Willard in my inbox!!!!
Thanks for all your hard work and beautiful art!! Love it!!
I so love your blog and look forward to every one of them! You, Joe and the kitties stay warm!
Janie
I always enjoy reading your blog and am looking forward to the Willard. I loved your new book and finished reading A Fine Romance for the fourth time. You do such good work. Love, Sheila
Morning! Morning! Morning! Even with the grey skies we have here, I could feel sunshine from Martha’s Vineyard! Don’t disappoint me and tell me it’s not. In my mind it is and that is that!
Orchard House… one of the most wonderful places in the world! I can see the girls, no corsets, of course, tossing snowballs and tumbling in the snow! Lovely!
Chinese is so beautiful! How exciting and how droll the characters are (can one say that about writing??)!! I think it is cunning how your letters and some words are still there and are “captioned” with the Chinese! How fun!! What clever people!
Enjoy this nearly Thanksgiving day! Hi, Jack, from Annie C. At.
I love books printed in Japan and China. The quality of paper makes me smile with happiness, the illustrations shimmer – I used to go to a Japanese bookstore in Rockefeller Plaza to buy my appointment books, pads, stationery, pens, and origami papers – all imported. I got a Tasha Tudor appointment book that wasn’t printed here, all in Chinese but the illustrations and little extras were worth every penny. Oh and please enter me in the giveaway – I love all that you create (and, it seems, all that you love is loved by me also – as my dear grandmother would have said, “Great minds think alike”).
My family is humored my little obsession with you. All the calendars! We’ve been religiously changing the notepads on the fridge for a couple of years now. I distinctly remember the day I picked them up. It’s hard to hold that enormous box discreetly! Now my daughters race to see who will get to the fridge first on the first day of each month. They start begging to change to the next month days in advance, but I won’t have it. 🙂 We love those things. Someday, I’m going to stockpile them so I can have them all my life long. Anyway, after purchasing calendars this year, I stumbled onto your blog! Delight! Your art gives me J>O>Y, and helps me embrace the woman I love to be. Thank you for the joy and the warmth!
All in the quest for world peace ♥ We need it more now than ever. East meets West through the loving eyes of Susan Branch. Doesn’t get any better than that. So, my sister lived in Alaska for years and it seems we tried every salmon recipe known to man but never crunchy salmon … YUM! No one does it better than your personal cooking genius! I have visions of Joe B. Hall cooking farm to table in Arizona with your dad as chef assistant next spring 🙂 Happy Tuesday, happy Willard, happy life! xoxo
Good morning, Sue! I’m drooling now from that description of salmon! Yum!
What an amazing giveaway! Someone will be very lucky indeed! Vanna had better be in good form!:-)
Isn’t it amazing that your words will now be read in China?!? They will be able to have a view of life some of them have never imagined!
I must confess. I’ve already been to the shopping page and placed an order! Yay! I’ve done my husband’s Christmas shopping for me.:-)
Sending you the very best wishes! We’ve much for which to be thankful!
xo Nellie
LOL Nellie, good job!
Hi Susan,
How exciting to see your work in another language and know that people all over the world will be reading about you.
Would you consider reprinting the Christmas book, like you did for Autumn? I am one of the few people who does not have the past books. But I made up for it and now have Autumn, The Fairy Tale Girl and your newest masterpiece. Am anxiously awaiting the next one. There are so many details on every page to see that every time I look at it, I find something else I have missed. All your books are like that. It is just amazing how you have the patience to do that. But that what makes you special.
Wow….how exciting! Seeing A Fine Romance printed in Chinese is pretty darn amazing. You must be “over the moon” as you look at every page and see your words and art transformed into the beautiful characters and symbols of the Chinese language.
And……
So excited about Willard…..thank you for the gift you give us all, sending us the Willard….I save everyone, and reread them over and over. Are you watching on your laptop this time? Do you get the alert when girlfriends all over the world open their Willard? That has to be thrilling. Lots of good mojo spreading around the globe.
Thanks too, for the salmon recipe, looks delicious. And since I usually grill or bake my salmon, can’t wait to try frying it.
And of course, big hugs to your sidekick…the furry buddy helping you send out all the joy!
Thanks for all the smiles you put on our faces…..we all need connection, and to keep the good things in life close at heart. It is that light that will help heal.
Prayers for the people of Paris.
Just ordered the Chinese version of A Fine Romance! It’s such a hopeful sign of good things happening in a world where too many bad things are happening. It’s spreading love and closing gaps between people and I just love it! I’m thinking that you’ll be needing to go to China for a book signing and that will be an adventure!
Hi Susan,
Thank you for another wonderful post, they can never be too long for me. Congratulations on your book being translated in Chinese. Now even more people can join us in enjoying your journeys. I’ve enjoyed both books and look forward to your next one. Joe’s salmon looks delicious, my taste buds are craving salmon now.
Thanks for the awesome give-a-way. How cool would it be to have A Fine Romance in Chinese!
Hi Susan,
I’m ashamed to say that I haven’t checked my email in a week or so, so if Willard is there, I don’t know it yet.
I’m already in full blown hibernation mode for winter even though it’s 84 degrees with 98% humidity outside here in South Texas. 🙁 I even mowed my (very green) grass on Sunday. So, I’ve been very lazy and very derelict in my duties of late, because I’m just ready for it to be cold and blustery outside so that I can sit on my comfy sofa in my cozy house with my sweet kitties and veg. Shame on me! 🙂
I’m impatiently awaiting the second installment (or is it the third?) of your delightful memoirs. So excited to read it (even tho we all know how it ends)!
Happy thanksgiving, dear Susan, to you and yours.
Christy is SoTex
Thank you for the lovely Willard and likewise blog. The amount of enjoyment seeing your new posts is too big to measure. The coziness of your photos which so beautifully coordinate with your gentle words…a blessing in written form. Happy Thanksgiving to you and Joe.
Love that picture of Louisa May Alcott’s home with the snow coming down. Beautifully peaceful…..hope to win the books. Love books. Especially yours! Have a blessed day!
You make every season seem magical–so pleased you have so much to look forward to in 2016.
How exciting to see your book in Chinese! Your lovely art is timeless
and is appreciated worldwide. I love reading every single word of your
blog and when I see there is a new one in my email, it makes me smile.
So look forward to the sequel next spring! Have reread AUTUMN
( I live on Autumn Lane) and now will get to CHRISTMAS.
Feel the same way about Orchard House and L.M. Alcott. You can definitely
feel the author’s presence. Thank you for enriching my day.
Carry on!!
One of the MANY reasons I love Williard is that he is loyal and finds me wherever I am! This morning I am lounging in a borrowed apartment in the Village, contemplating going to Balthazar for lunch! ! I had to take a break from painting and unpacking at the farm. I’m head-over-heels for 2016, darling girl. Such adventure awaits! Your heart must be nigh to busting! As for my selfish little heart, I’m SO hoping I win the Christmas book! Mine was damaged in the move. I was horrified,when I unpacked that box. Something choclate-y had melted and I had to cut the pages apart with a mat knife. Yuck. Hugs to the boys and Girl, but the biggest for you, who makes our world more beautiful with your love. And art. And arfy-ness.
Dear Susan,
You have delighted us once again! Lovely wintery picture of Orchard House, and its on my Bucket list, to visit! (thats getting longer and longer, haha)
I LOVE the Chinese version of your Romance book. Its it amazing, that YOU wrote it, and soon, hopefully, many Chinese people will be able to dream too, of the lovely Great Britain!
I will order my copy right away! Having 2 chinese sons, loving books, well, this just NEEDS to be in our bookcase!
And if I did win an extra copy in the Give-away, well, no matter, we have lovely Chinese friends I can give a copy to.
Have a lovely day!
Dear Susan, what an honor to have your book printed in Chinese!!! I think that’s what is meant by “be fruitful and multiply.” You’ve made me so happy since I found your first book (for me) 22 years ago. Now your book is going out to a whole new audience! Talk about multiplying yourself! So many new people will be made so happy❤️. Thank you for that picture of Louisa May Alcott’s home. My heart took a leap when I saw it-so beautiful. I’m seriously doing a snow dance now! Happy Thanksgiving!
Dear Susan, I’m too excited to comment about Willard that I haven’t even read your Blog post yet! Firstly, I ordered my copy of Isle of Dreams, posted a comment on Politics & Prose about their need to have you come sign your books, and sent your Willard to my local Independent book store (we are 50 miles north of Washington, DC). For both I included a link to your “schedule an event” link. I’m putting it here in case people can’t find it: http://www.162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch//schedule-an-event/ I did that rather than just giving the phone # listed so that the book stores can see how popular you are!
Could you tell us when you plan to leave on the QM2 for Britain so we can make our plans for “joining” you?!
I just wanted you to know I will be hosting a Susan Branch Christmas Luncheon for my Take Joy Society in December using only your recipes. I will share all my books with my guests and share my enthusiasm for your watercolor art. I’m trying to come up with a craft we can do afterwards that would be something you’d do that we could do in an afternoon. I’ve looked through your books and the only idea that presented itself to me was to cut-out snowflake ornaments. Are there any other crafts, perhaps, that you’ve shared on your Blog that would be good for Christmas?
Thanks for your input! Now to read this post.
Thank you for Politics and Prose!!!!! Not sure which boat yet, still figuring stuff out. Check out the Christmas blogs, there are food gifts like star croutons and spiced nuts, but there are also place cards you can make (use colored pens and glitter), there are also easy garlands.
Susan,
You have so much joy to spread around! I am happy to know of you and all your sweet, sweet treats. Thanks for being such an inspiration and hope to all of us. Oh, btw, I made your gingerbread to have after lunch with my husband’s last remaining aunt. She loved it and said it smelled sooooo wonderful when she stepped inside. Thanks for all you do.
I absolutely love seeing the book with the Chinese Calligraphy .. How thrilling and exciting for you !!….and now all I can think of is the perfectly grilled salmon steak created by Joe…I must have some.. n o w !
I love the book! I can’t wait for your next. Thank you for the free screen saver. I live in Bakersfield and we don’t see snow so it will be nice to sit in my office and let my imagination go wild. I’ve been looking for your books that are out of print in the bookstores/antique stores and second hand stores. I also love all the music you attach. I feel like your my history teacher, music teacher and art teacher. Have a wonderful thanksgiving and give those kitty’s a big smooch from California!
Congratulations on having your book published in Chinese. Now they will know what a treasure you are.
I too will miss the Great British Baking Show, Mary is coming to America starting Monday nite on ABC(Nov 30th) for 4 episodes! My husband calls me a Susan Branch addict not such a bad thing!!!! Much success with Chinese version. Happy Thanksgiving.
I heard it comes on at 10 pm. Isn’t that a bit much? 🙂 I hope I heard wrong!
What a joy! This book is beautiful and even more romantic to see written in this ornate language.
The Chinese version of your book is simply gorgeous! I was just looking through my copy of your Christmas book yesterday. I have tucked little magazine articles about you and all my other favorite cookie recipes inside, so every time I open it little pieces of *JOY* drift out. Thank you for helping make the world so sweet! Love, Kristin
I always look forward to your blog, but especially this time of year. Living in Arizona it is sometimes hard to get into the holiday spirit. Reading your blog and seeing how you have decorated your beautiful home always help me get into the mood. Thank you!!
Thank you for your blog and books. The world needs happy images right now . . . I always feel warm and fuzzy after reading your blog. Can’t wait for my Willard!
Thank you so much for brightening my day. Your books, calendars, blog and Willards put a smile on my face. You have touched my soul!
Hi Susan,
It’s raining here in Texas, too.
I really hope you are able to visit Book People in Austin on your book tour. If you do, I plan to make the journey from Rockwall to see you. My dear friend in Falmouth goes to all book signings you have near her and sends me darling photos of the two of you.
I loved the Arf and Arfy lesson. I’m not sure I have it down yet. Very clever!!
Keep those blogs coming. I signed up for email notifications so I don’t have to check for them every day. Thanks for that!!
Darlene
I’m really trying for Book People. Have never been there and have always wanted to see it and Austin. Call them if you can and request that I come . . . that is the thing that will make it happen! And thank you!
Hello, I’m back, having now read this post. Now I want to rush to the store and buy SALMON. We are able to get wild caught Alaskan Salmon here in Maryland. Last month it was on sale for a reasonable price. I hope it still is. The Chinese version is like getting a second work of art within another. And speaking of foreign languages….I would not be able to understand Arf & Arfy, I’m sure, but I discovered I CAN read it. Being a “visual” person, my eyes dissected it right away when you said goodbye, but my ears, I’m afraid would be lost in total confusion. Perhaps learning as a child made you a really good listener?
I also forgot to mention how much I love how Jack gets in the picture. It reminds me of my dog, Gabriel, in a different scenario. I can be at my computer with my arm hanging down petting my cat who is on the floor alongside me when suddenly the fur feels different. Gabriel has quietly nudged Poetry out of the way and is not under my hand receiving its ministrations! Our animals do indeed bring us much JOY!
No matter what the day brings when I read one of your books or your blog I feel I am right there with you. Thank you so much for being such a wonderful writer, one that leaves us all wanting more. We are truly blessed knowing you Susan.!
Thank you for making the world a better place! Sharing your book and positive attitude with the Chinese is wonderful. Spreading comfort and joy with another country and culture is a positive influence, something needed in the world today.
Thank you also for the salmon recipe. I cook salmon frequently and plan to use Joe’s method the next time I make it.
Thank you for continuing to bring joy and happiness to my day.
Brenda Brady
Lewes, DE
Wow!! Your book in Chinese…awesome!! I have a dear friend, a Chinese doctor, for whom I must get this book. She is the sweetest person I know, so caring and oh, how she would love your book. As my mom would say…”you have arrived”! There are no books anywhere like yours, yours are personal, unique and artistic….plus genuine, as are you. God gave you such a gift…and you have obeyed Him by sharing that gift with the world. We are not to hide our gifts under a bushel, but let them shine for all to see and enjoy. And the salmon! Oh my, can’t wait to cook some for my Jay and me. We love salmon and this is so easy to prepare. My palate is already saying YUM. Hope you saved a morsel for the kitty kids too. Looking forward to my Willard. Will check my mailbox daily. Can’t wait! Bet the March girls would have loved your books. I can see Jo in the attic pouring over each one as we all do.
Well, dear friend, love and blessings from “Me in Michigan”. A lovely, sunny day here.
Susan, You make my day. The weight comments really speak to me. When will we stop caring about our weight?! Maybe when we’re 90?! Oh well, heading for the peddle bike. (And then rewarding myself with a browse through your Christmas book-yes, I’m one of the lucky one’s who already have it. :-))
I wish I could come visit you on Martha’a Vineyard. You make it look magical!
I am always so tickled when I see a new post on your site – they are always fun and uplifting. Have really enjoyed your books – I have a whole bunch of them, including “A Fine Romance” and “The Fairy Tale Girl”. Like everyone else – looking forward to your next book. Thanks for all of the fun you provide for everyone – the world sure needs a lot more special people like you! Hope you have a great day!
Can’t wait for the new book. Love them all. You go girl!
Connie
♥ Brilliant… Glorious… Blog~Post… Sweetest Sue!!! Thank~You! & I Love The Musica!!! & Your Book “A Fine Romance” in Chinese…. is Absolutely~Gorgeous!!!! My Wings Are Crossed…What a Give~Away! Oh Vanna Slip Your Chinese~Silk~Slippers On & Your Kimono 😉 & Pick~Me!!!! Pretty~Please! lol 😉 Ho~Ho~Ho!!! 🙂 Thank~You For Making Us Smile Sweet Sue! Joe’s Salmon is a Must~Try….Scrumptious! Kitty~Kisses To You & Joe & Girl~Kitty & Jack! xoxo Poof! ♥ 🙂 ♥ 🙂 ♥ P.S. & I’m Anxiously~Awaiting The Arrival of “WILLARD” Yay! 🙂 P.P.S. God~Bless~Us….Everyone! Amen! ♥
Susan, Just love your Willard. Congratulations on all your success. You really do bring joy into our lives. Thank you! Crossing my fingers and toes for the goodies.
Thank you again,
Gail
Wonderful, wonderous and delicious reading! Thank you, Susan for today’s “Happy”. 🙂
I love Great British baking show-I thought I was the only one who watched it! I agree, sad that it’s over. I so admire those bakers, I could never do what they do. Love reading your blog and Willard and of course would just think it would be terrific to win all those things you are giving away. I love the Emma mugs but sadly I only have 2…Thanks for sharing your life.
Oh, what a nice surprise! Just finished mopping the kitchen floor, waiting for it to dry and got out the laptop to find Willard had arrived. Thank you for the lovely words, pictures and everything. I’m having a good day and I hope you are too. Love you!
Oh Susan
I love receiving your Willards. Ive on your list for ages and ages.
So much of your “fairy tale” brings back memories of growing up in the 50s in southern California.
Hopefully, it wont take long for the next installment.
Blessings
It is clear that the Chinese appreciate your calligraphy. They are great
masters at it themselves. Just look at how they wrote the title. It is exquisite!
They must love all of the warm detail in your art work too, and so I will not be surprised if your book becomes a grand success there. Get ready for a trip to China.
I too am ready to turn off the TV. It’s not that I don’t care. I am
getting saturated with negative input and it doesn’t feel good at all. BASTA!
So, it’s back to Susan Branch so I can stay in a healthy happy place. Thank you
for being there at the right time for all of us.
How exciting to have your book, “A Fine Romance” translated into Chinese! I’m sure many people will love reading it and admiring your beautiful illustrations and photos.
My mouth is watering just looking at those pictures of Joe’s salmon! I think I could eat salmon or almost any other kind of fish ~ talapia! YUM! ~ every day and never get tired of it. Congratulations on your book printed in Chinese. I have put the English version of it on my birthday list for December 2nd. Can’t wait!
Hi Susan, How exciting to see your book printed in Chinese! The Fairy Tale Girl is next up on my to be read pile. I really loved your A Fine Romance. I could not come up for air until I finished it, I found it that delightful. I am still grateful to you for introducing my husband and I to Rummikub many blog entries ago. It is still our favorite game to play on weekend afternoons 🙂
Congratulations Susan! How wonderful to see your book printed in the fanciful
Chinese characters. I have given your book to several friends and they all
have read it twice and we can’t wait for book 2. I too can’t watch the news
anymore. What happened in Paris and the problems around the world have
made me emotionally fragile and sadness descends. I escape to your blog,
to my old movies, and books that calm me. When next Thursday arrives, I
will be grateful for my friends and family and all things good. Thank you
for your uplifting words and pictures. There is nothing more serene than a
snow scene accompanied by your musica.
Good morning gals! Susan, the blog is wonderful and continues to remind me of how blessed and lucky we are. The strangest thing just happened here at my house. A middle aged women just rode up to my front door on her bike no less, and asked my husband if she could buy two sandwiches. We live out in the country and this is a first. I made her the sandwiches, and gave her a few dollars that we had and some fruit and pumped up her tires and off she went. It again reminded me of the people that are out there that have daily challenges in their life. This is so random and has nothing to do with your lovely book that we all adore. Thumbs up for a job well done, and I know whoever wins the give- a- way will be so thrilled!!! We are a bunch of blessed, lucky people! Happy Autumn everyone!
As always a pure delight to read this!…I just recently pulled out my/your Christmas book, and perused it…Hard to believe it is already mid November with Thanksgiving next week. And you, dear Susan, are among the things to be thankful for this year. You bring a sense of “normal” to what appears to be a world gone mad!…a special “normal” of fairy tales and romance, and tea and travels, and home and kitties!….Thankful for you and your open heart that shares so willingly!!
Oh Susan, I couldn’t be happier for you! It seems these comments just refer to your blog, suerly they have not seen the good news in your Willard! Exciting! Movie rights, TV!?!? Who knew? I did! Your own little version of Dowtnton Abbey!
Two things … Thinking back … I wished I had traveled to Bakersfield for your book signing and the Downton Abbey Tea. I did enjoy Remnants of the Past in SLO with my girlfriends immensely! Lastly, I knew the first time I met you on your Girlfriends book signing tour, at a Michael’s in Fullerton, with your mom, with barely a line, that you had ‘IT’! Congrats!
The Willard takes four days to go out to everyone, so we have lots of people here who haven’t read it yet . . . but they will! Thank you Janet, you have IT too xoxoxo
Wow! Loved this post….as I do all of them!!! 🙂 Thank you for the chance to win this lovely giveaway!!!! How generous! I now look forward to Willards arrival…which, again, I always look so forward to! Thank you for spreading happiness, Susan! Love your work! Smiles, Deborah. 😉
What a lovely way to spend a cozy, snowy morning – sipping coffee and reading a sweet letter with a recipe from you. I love that picture of Louisa’ s home…..HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all!
Hi Susan,
You are so blessed to be able to do what you love.
You are the Beatrix Potter of our time.
It would be so delightful to see a movie of your life.
Thinking positive on that one!
and…
I had the priviledge of meeting you, once at your studio on Martha’s Vineyard
and once we made gingerbread houses at Beth’s in San Anselmo.
It was a pleasure.
Happy Fall.
Take good care,
gwen
I remember, with my girlfriend Jane too. If you see Beth, tell her I love her!
How exciting for you! And a wonderful give-away, too. Thanks so much for sharing your life with all of us!