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 . . .
I would love to win! What wonderful gift these books would make. Will you be stopping in Las Vegas, NV during your book tour??
I read Willard first thing this morning and it was a delight. Now, I’m craving some of that marvelous salmon. I’m still hoping to find some marvelous lump crab for your crabcakes recipe as well. I’m so hungry for good seafood, but it’s southern fried chicken tonight. Congratulations on the book in Chinese. Hugs to you, Joe, and the kitties.
SCOTLAND!!! OMG!!! I have always wanted to go and now I will get to go with my bestest GF and her bestest Joe!! This will be very exciting!! Thanks for the wonderful message – I can’t do “arf” but oh well!! It is much cuter on you!! I don’t know how you do all of this stuff – but speaking of “stuff – ing” I wish you and Joe a marvelous Thanksgiving. Eat – drink – and be merry!! Sending hugs and lots of love…….Pat from Paso
Your blog brightened my day!!!! I read my Willard last night and saved the blog for today. Such a delight.
I’m going to contact Northshire Bookstore out of Manchester, VT. There is also one in Saratoga Springs, NY (where I live). It’s a great independent bookstore with great shopping nearby (hint, hint). I want you to sign my son’s baby book! 🙂
Congrats on all of your accomplishments! Very happy for you!
Your words help us escape to a wonderful world. Many thanks.
I so enjoy your all your blogs and all your Willards and can’t wait for the new book to come out!
Oh! How lovely it would be to see you! So, maybe at Vromans in Pasadena next year!!!!!
Just read Willard. Ye ha Scotland! Sure hoping it will be a book for us afterwards.
Love the screensaver!
Thank you, thank you!! The picture of orchard house! Giveaways (and in another language)! and the adorable Jackie Boy all in one post? I’m doing a happy dance :0)
Susan Branch….your name equates family, home, handmade, and love…I have enjoyed your work for many years. My four daughters and I devoured your book…thanks for letting us be a part of your life!
What a lovely post today and how exciting about the Chinese printing; congratulations! I’m most looking forward to trying the yummy salmon recipe and having the literal step by step instructions gives me great hope that I, too, can serve this beautiful fish. I do have a possibly silly question: the recipe says to cook the salmon “skin side up” but you’ve just cut the skin off. Hmph. Not being a very adventurous cook I’m guessing I should put the fish in the pan with the recently trimmed side 🔼 UP?? Please forgive my ignorance!!
Thank you for your always delightful posts, and I’ll keep my fingers and toes crossed for the drawing!
With great admiration, from one Susan to another.💕
Yes, the side that USED to have the skin on it, up. 🙂
Hi Susan!
When Willard arrives in my email box- a sense of excitement overcomes me!
I have to get a glass of ice tea and make myself comfortable so I can take it all in as I read! I couldn’t be happier for you and all of your success! It always makes me happy to read/hear such positive things happening to others.
We caught salmon in Lake Michigan this summer. Can’t wait to try your recipe! Do you think we all could learn Chinese? Oh, heavens to Betsy, I guess I could try. I just can’t be responsible for what I say while I’m learning.
Always love reading your posts. Will you be stopping in Michigan on your next book tour?
Thanks for sharing so much of your life and making us feel a small part of it.
Love your books. Would love to win
Oh thank you for sharing your excitement over your book being printed in Chinese, it is so beautiful in any language! Thank you for your generous heart that shares not only your world, bookmarks, recipes, music, whatever is on your mind with us, and fills us with joy!
Susan,I so look forward to your blog posts and Willards…the ideas you give..stories you share, it is a fairylight in my day. I love the new “Joy” mug..that is my daughter’s name..she is aptly named. I get the heart of home books out each season to enjoy and glean from. Thank you for sharing your gift with us ….Hope your Thanksgiving is a blessed one.
Oh how wonderful to hear about all the exciting things you have coming your way. I hope you get to come to Seattle. I just “liked” the Facebook page for Elliott Bay Book Company and will definitely ask them (or beg them) to book you for a signing. It would be so fun to meet you. It’s always great to hear from you. Enjoy your Holiday’s!
Love you for the begging! 🙂 I owe you.
Well, I just finished ordering Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams! I enjoyed The Fairy Tale Girl but I do have to tell you that I struggled a bit in the area of feeling bad for Joe as you told us your life before him. I know that’s dumb, and I did keep thinking about that country song that goes something like – God blessed the broken road that led me straight to you. I did love the book and could totally relate to your life as I grew up doing so many of the same childhood things.
So excited you are going back to England… and Scotland! My husband and I went there last summer and I used A Fine Romance as inspiration for a lot of the places we visited. Loved Hilltop! We both fell in love with Scotland and plan to go back someday. Happy Thanksgiving girlfriend!
I have been in the mood for salmon lately, and now I can’t wait to try it Joe’s way. It looks delicious. Thanks for sharing.
Me again! Just realized I talked all about me and you don’t even know me, so sorry. Thank you for Willard, been enjoying him since he used to come in the mail. Fairy Tale Girl in Chinese, it’s a beautiful thing!
Tomorrow night I will be cooking our salmon using Joe’s technique. Also planning our Thanksgiving meal using some of your recipes from Autumn cook book. Thanks Susan for all you do!
Really hoping your book tour makes it to Seattle area, if so I will make a trip to Elliot Bay to see you.
Hello Susan,
I’m the stalker who was outside your house waiting for the ferry just 3 1/2 weeks ago. I can’t believe I’ve been home that long. I hope your book is going along swimmingly. I’m in the middle of The Fairy Tale Girl. I’m getting such a kick out of it! It’s taking me back!
I too sit (mostly at a computer) in my home office. I’m a creative director and get to work at home which is the best! Unfortunately what I want right now is not beautifully prepared salmon but ginger cake. Not good.
Anyway, keep up the good work! You can do it!
Barbara
It’s amazing to see your beautifully illustrated book with the text in Chinese, the writing looks so beautiful. Enjoy your Thanksgiving feast!
Dearest Susan,
My first comment disappeared….computer gremlins?….before moderation, so I hope this isn’t a repeat.
I love you latest posts….all red, orange, and yellow…fall leaves, sailboats, moon rises, quilts on the line, and beautiful table settings. With all the talk of grandmothers…sweet memories of my two who lived with our family while I was growing up. One made cookies with butter from our cows; the other, made THE BEST blackberry cobbler and cornbread.
Congratulations on A Fine Romance in Chinese. Since they are traveling more, they will love your version of England. Wonder if any will take the QMII to America?
When you have a minute..ha!..could you check the china in the photo of your recipe box? I love the floral design and the shape of the pieces. Are there any markings to identify the company and/or pattern?
Soooooo, Austin is on your book signing list!!!! Wahoo!! I’ll be sure to let them know that there are MANY girlfriends who are interested. I really like the idea of the map to let us know where you plan to go and where you/we will be come spring. I actually made one for the tour with Romance, but some times I missed getting in the van and had to find another route to the next city.
Thank you so much for your time, talents, and energy that make our world a better place. So glad you have Joe, kitties and family for support….and to cook you delicious looking salmon!
Love, Rachel
That’s strange because I even remember answering you …. that no, so sorry, there are no markings on that set! I’m so glad I’ll get to see you in Austin, Rachel!
Yes, the salmon looked so good I had to buy some and we had it for dinner tonight. I don’t think I’m as skilled as Joe is when it comes to trimming off the skin. So good. Love the crispy coating. And so good for you too. Thanks for these ideas.
Also congrats on the Chinese edition of Fairy Tale Girl. Did you do the calligraphy for the cover? Gorgeous!
Not the Chinese writing, they had someone do that.
Just read my Willard — would love to win your book set!! How exciting would it be to see Susan’s stories in a movie or TV program!!
Martha from CT
Such a great Willard! It’s great to hear that you have so many wonderful things coming up in your life. I look forward to traveling along with you next year via your blog. I hope the dream of a movie comes true, it would be so much fun. Amazing to have your book translated into Chinese, I live in a city where we have a large Chinese population so I hope they will enjoy your books the way I have. Joe’s salmon made my mouth water! I better get my dinner ready!
Thanks for the Orchard House picture. Such a neat place to visit! All of May’s drawings still there… And Hollywood?! Can’t wait to read the new books!
Loved your book in Chinese. It is beautiful! Thank you for sharing your life with us.
🔴🔴🔴🔴🏮 Double Happiness🏮🔴🔴🔴🔴
Just saw the post hoping you’ll travel to Seattle for a book signing and that made me think that you should come to New Jersey! I just met Elin Hilderbrand at my neighborhood bookstore in June. It was a great evening. They’re always having book signings with famous authors and who’s more famous than you!
We’ll be at Bookends in Ridgewood NJ!
Oh Yay! I’ll have to keep the date open!
What a lovely break in the day. Thanks so much for all the lovelies!
Thank you for sharing pieces of your life and home they truly bring joy to the day.
Thanks for the beautiful and interesting blog post but I can never get enough!! So needless to say I’m anxiously awaiting Willard’s arrival. May God continue to bless you and yours this Thanksgiving!!!
would love to be entered in the drawing
Blessings as you work on your new book! I can’t wait to order it. Loved a fine romance and Fairytale Girl! Love the Orchard House picture. At Christmas I curl up with my blanket and hot tea and watch Little Women. You are a kindred spirit😊 Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Another email to Elliott Bay Books in Seattle asking that they invite you up! Thank you for the picture of Orchard House in the snow, I’m glad to see the Alcott home is still treasured as well as Louisa May’s stories.
I love your blogs & always have your heart of the home book autumn out around this time each year! Thanks for the salmon recipe can’t wait to try it. also I LOVE your Tea Party Canister.
Congrats on the new book. Wish you were going to be closer to DFW, or Denton, TX. I would be in line!
ps: I LOVE your cranberry sauce! Make it every year, and also make the jam with the marmalade – DeLish!!
Overjoyed to see Denver on the book tour! Seeing you in person would make my heart so happy!
I just started reading “Merry Christmas: And other Christmas Stories” by Louisa May Alcott. Perfect for this time of year. Thank you for your blog!! 🙂
I love autumn and Thanksgiving and crispy-edged salmon!! I miss my Grandma too!! Thanks for your sweet memories, celebrations and inspiration!
Howdy from Oklahoma! I haven’t received my Willard yet, but I am looking forward to it.
Oh – such fun to open e-mail and see a new Willard! Absolutely love reading these! I would like to invite you to Alaska! (We spend our summers there!). You would absolutely LOVE the Copper River Salmon – it is DIVINE – deep red and buttery flavor!!! The trip to this wonderful state would be the setting for another book for sure! The scenery is breathtaking!!! The people are fantastic – we have even meet people from all over the world who travel there! Yes, we have bookstores there too!!! No, we do not live in igloos! 🙂 . Your books have a special place in my heart – they are just so heartwarming and cozy!!! Smiles!!!!!
Dear Susan, I feel kind of shy greeting you for the first time. I first met you in A Fine Romance and now The Fairy Tale Girl. I’m enjoying Autumn and will try your grandmother’s stuffing this Thanksgiving. My two “babies” – BRAVO and Ella – enjoy your blog, as shown by their interest in my desk and lap when I’m reading it! I’m preordering your sequel – and thank you. Thank you for your spirit and your generosity.
From the heart, a Girlfriend.
Don’t feel shy, I love seeing you here. Thank you for your kind words, I know you will love that stuffing!
Hi Susan,
I do hope your books will be made into movies. That would be awesome. I have a director for you: Nancy Myers. She directed The Holiday, Something’s Gotta Give and Its Complicated.
I always enjoy getting your emails. After a long day with my active four year old, its nice to kick back and five into your beautiful world.
Tell Joe he can come a cook salmon at our house anytime. Any man who cooks for his woman is a blessing.
I’d also love to win. Thanks for the opportunity.
I’m so excited that you’re coming to Elliot Bay Bookstore in Seattle on your book tour! I will definitely be there 🙂 You will love Seattle. If you have the time, you should visit the Queen Mary Tea Shop. It is sweet and darling and has a wonderful afternoon tea. I just finished reading The Fairy Tale Girl – loved it! Can’t wait to read Isle of Dreams. Thank you for being such a big inspiration to me and women all over the world!
xoxo
Rebecca
Thank you for the wonderful newsletter and the chance to win your beautiful books. Happy Holidays!!
~ Greetings Susan, Oh “How Happy” I was to receive the “Willard”, yesterday, and all the wonderful news that you shared with us:-) ~ Oh, I am hoping finally to meet you, in “Veroman” book store, once, you arrive to California:-) I hope the book signing takes place, there:-) ~ I truly believe you are the “Fairy Tale Girl”. You are such an inspiration to me, and when I read your blog, I feel completely blissful, my heart radiates with “Pure Joy”. I got so excited to find out, again that you are leaving for United Kingdom….Oh, I have visited England when mu uncle was living there, many moons ago….~ Oh, the whole time, I was experiencing pure excitement; ~ Oh, I can only imagine when you visit the country sites, what an amazing experience that can be. Thank you for all your beautiful work, and your sincerity. Much Love, Ani
Lovely, lovely, lovely! And now I must watch Little Women whilst bundled up sipping tea, longing for wintry flakes and (hopefully!) delightful Gingerbread Tea!
I hope it is now my chance to win! I love your books, your art, your posts! They brighten my day.
I treasure every message I get from you. This is my first message to you. Hope you get it. I can’t afford to buy your books so I’m checking with our library. They are on my Christmas list. Here is hoping Santa thinks I’ve been a GOOD GIRL!! Thanks for being you and God bless.
I love to see my books in libraries . . . maybe they will get it for you if it’s not already there. xoxo
Thanks so much for lighting up my day with your blog and Willard. Would love to attend one of your celebrations sometime. How much fun would that be? Happy Thanksgiving. Best always.
Seeing your book translated into Chinese is thrilling, congratulations! I enjoyed the Storybook Girl and will be ordering part two soon. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day with your friends.
Joanie B!
Hope I win your giveaway. I would donate the Chinese edition to the library where I work in Southern Jersey. I will be greedy and happily keep the rest for myself! Greatly enjoy your blog and Willard. You always brighten my day <3
I have loved your books for many years. In fact, your beautiful ‘Christmas Is The Heart of the Home’ book has always been my book of choice for a housewarming gift to new neighbors and friends. Would love, love, love to replenish my gift stock By winning your drawing. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Sharon from Illinois
Love it all.
I had forgotten how much I love receiving Willards! Thank you for a perfect ending to a long day.
I very much enjoyed your Willard and blog. You do have an exciting 2016 ahead! Lots of good things going on in your life. God bless you.
I’ve been savoring my Autumn book again 🙂 Thanks for all the happiness you bring!
So many great things coming up for you both. Happy thanksgiving!
Congratulations Susan…A Fine Romance looks amazing in Chinese!
Also love the picture of Jack at the end… he’s like the sweetest cherry on top of your delicious post…Thank You!
<.\l/
<./l\
Yarfou warfill barfe warfithiarfn oarfne marfile oarff marfy harfouse!
Did I actually say anything? The iPad kept correcting it. 😜 Debby
YES! Good job! One mile! That’s pretty darn close! 🙂 I know, we have retrain our auto-correctors!
OarfMarfGarf! Iarf larfove tarfhis! Iarf warfoke uarfp larfast narfight aarfnd starfartearfd darfoiarfng warfords.😜 Iarf garfoolearfd iarft tarfoo Aarfnd warfas aarfmarfazearfd Iarf carfould narfot farfind iarft. Warfas iarft harfow sarfandarfy
Tarfalkearfd. Iarf narfeed Harfelp warfith earfd Aarfnd iarfng.
Darfebbarfy
VERY good. LOL, just reading it outloud to Joe and laughing. Only one minute thing: one of those words that are different and it makes no sense, but it’s an important word so I will tell you…. it’s “I” — it’s arfi. Sorry. I know! Google should get it together! 🙂
Since the above message took me at least a half hour to write, I will ask my questions in English. This is sort of like learning to type, everytime you see something, you type it out in your head. Here are my questions.
🤔When the syllable starts with a vowel, is the vowel long? Like a, is it aarfmarfazearfd, wait! see the word before wait my iPad corrected to it!!!!!!! Too funny. So how do you say a and how do you say I. I am a retired teacher for 12 years, and this is the first time I wish I had my class to teach them this fun thing. Barfut arfi aarfm sarfure arfi warfill garfet oarfvarfer iarft!😬
amazed would be arfa marfazed. I would be arfi. Yes, I’m sure you will too! 🙂
Yay! I just pre-ordered my book!! That and there’s another give away? Too cool!
Sooo exciting to be published in Chinese!!! There are so many people in China I hope they want to order a LOT of books. Lots of wonderful adventures to be excited about in 2016. Hurry and get that book finished so you can begin the adventures!.. Want to have lunch when you are in SLO?
Willard was great. Thank you. The Blog is too. Got to make salmon. Love the Alcott home in the snow. I pre-ordered. yee-haw. I do so hope a tv movie comes along…but the book will always be better. I love your kitchen picture. the quilt makes it so cozy. You sure have an exciting yr. planned. Enjoy the rest of the month. See you next blog.
Hi Susan, I popped over here for a cup of tea from Willard. 🙂 Your Willard filled me with nostalgic feelings about so many things, one being Willard itself, and thoughts of when it used to come into the mailbox on “paper from a tree,” as Ron Swanson would say. So much fun and exciting and delicious news, and what a year you’ve got planned! Thank you again for taking us all along with you! xoxo
Congratulations on the Chinese book, Sue! My daughter had the great privilege
of traveling to China this year to visit an orphanage, so we have a “connection” with China. She loved the people and wants to return one day (maybe she could take some of your books)!
Thank you for the beautiful words and illustrations you send to delight our days.
The world needs more of what you have to give!
Oh I just read your Willard…so great, but no stop in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV for book signing…oh booooooo hoooooooo… please try to come here! Love you Susan
I’ll get as close as I can! Meet you half way! xoxo
Susan, it’s the time of year to give thanks. I’d like to thank you for the recipes, book lists, creativity, and far-away-friendship!
I would love to win the Chinese book, b/c my daughter is Chinese, and is studying the language! Also, what is the name of the bookstore in Illinois that you might go to? I don’t see the name on the map. Illinois is the closest location to me.
The Book Stall in Winnetka put on a signing with a tea at a nearby country club the last time we were there, and we’ve been invited back. I’ll give the details for it later on…
Would love to repeat the Winnetka tea idea in AZ … on the porch of a historic home … with Blogdaddy signing right along with you. I spoke with Deb at the Women’s Exchange to find out how they did it. Cool that you’ve been invited back ♥ If you need a bookstore we have those too … Peregrine Book Co. in Prescott and Changing Hands in Phoenix. Curious if AZ and blogdaddy are on the way to CA or on the way home? The road leads to Austin … I-10 all the way baby 🙂 xoxo
On the way home . . . and yes, afterwards, off to Austin!
🙂 🙂 🙂 … and you will LOVE Austin if you haven’t been there yet. PLUS, Round Top is just a little over an hour from there. Road trippin’ to the Roundtopolis … the town of 1 square mile and 90 people 🙂 Spring antiques fair is March 28-April 2nd … probably a little too early if it is on your way home but something to keep in mind. Happy road trip planning ♥ xo
What would our lives be without our furgirls and furboys?! I can answer that: Our lives would be less colorful, less lively, less crazy and more monotonous, more bland, more lackluster — just to list a few. Your “Jack” and “Kitty Girl” add the spice to your life and writings like nothing else could — except maybe Joe! I’m sure he is colorful, lively and crazy too, just like your two furfriends. My tiny furboy (Yorkie terrier) weighs only 5 lbs, but he gives me tons of joy and companionship. Hug your furbabies for me, and Joe too.
Yes, lol, Joe has many aspects of Kitty in him! Don’t tell him I said that! xoxo
Susan,
Can’t wait for the new book—-just heard you are coming to St.Louis! Yes! Can’t wait! So exciting!
‘
I would love to win your first prize to hoard for myself. But, if I won the second, I would share it with the Chinese girls who come to the Bible Study in our home. They would be soooooo surprised!
Thank you, thank you for making the end of my long day so delightful.
Lovely things to look at and lovely thoughts to go to sleep with!
Oh to have any of these treasures, especially the Christmas Robin mug with JOY on it….since my name is Joy. Oooo La La !!!!! I read Fairy Tale girl in two nights. Couldn’t put it down !!!! My husband and I went all over New England in 2013 for our 30th anniversary. We saw Orchard house and we loved it, especially seeing Louisa May’s writing desk. Our stay on MV was like a fairy tale that we still talk about all the time. Even my husband used the word cute the whole 4 days we stayed there. We will come back to MV in the future. Happy Thanksgiving Susan, Joe and your precious kitties.
Joy from California
As always, your blog is delightful reading!
Thank you for the giveaway…would love to win.
Excited to see you may come to St. Louis, MO! Would come to meet you!
Your posts are lovely, beautiful and intimate. 🙂 I would love to own your new books and the mug………my daughter’s name is Emma. 🙂 Thank you for the chance to win them!
So sorry you have to approve over 1,000 replies but here’s another one because I’d really like to win the Christmas book. Best wishes to you, Joe and the kitties for a wonderful Thanksgiving!
LOL, well, at least I’m giving up on trying to reply to all of them. I just sit and read and laugh and cry . . .
Thank you for the picture of the Alcott home. It looks cozy. With Thanksgiving approaching, you are ever in our thoughts, as we will be making your Sweet Potato Casserole, a family tradition that replaced the dreaded Marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes when I became a vegetarian–and we never looked back!
Happy Thanksgiving, Susan and Joe! I’m so looking forward to that day. We get to be with our daughter we haven’t seen since August. We are going to Orange County to be with her and our son and other daughter are going, too, along with two grandsons. I hope we are not being crazy to travel on those few days and hope I-5 won’t be covered with snow when we are driving home. Our son-in-law will be driving, so that is a good thing. I could just feel your happiness when you spoke of the new Chinese edition of A Fine Romance. Congratulations! You know they will want the following books to be translated, also. Won’t that be something? I haven’t checked to see if my Willard is here yet, but it sounds like I’m in for a nice surprise. So I would be thrilled to be one of the winners of your generous drawing. I hope Vanna doesn’t drown in that sea of names. So sorry for the length of this comment, I think I just needed a listening ear.
Fondly,
Nancy (from Bakersfield)
You have one Nancy. xoxo
Thanks for the lovely screensaver! Pets for the kitties! 🙂 HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Oh how I love when Willard comes to visit! It is such a treat. 😆
I’ve always loved Willard–what a highlight of my day and that was waaaaay before we knew you through your blog. Still, you had us identifying and loving you just by the personal way you wrote your cookbooks.
The salmon recipe looks awesome. We love salmon and I’m always looking for ways to keep it moist. Joe has the secret! Thank you!
The Chinese version of your book is amazing. The symbols they use are a sort of art in their own right. And your script is very hard to beat!
Happy Thanksgiving if we don’t hear from you sooner.
Jane x
Brought my Fairy Tale Girl to read while on my anniversary trip in Cambria! Married 41 years to MY favorite husband. I love the ocean and beach and reading your posts about life in a beach town. I could stay here forever- so beautiful! We’ll be headed to Arroyo Grande before we head back up north. Wish you were here!
Great post Susan! Looking forward to getting Willard. Happy Thanksgiving! Donna (Idaho)
I can’t wait to get your new book! I so love getting Willard in my email! The giveaway is amazing!!! I would love the copy of Christmas from the heart of the home! I have been looking for it for awhile now! Happy Thanksgiving!
Delighted that you are coming to Eliot Bay Bookstore — my daughter and I will be there!
thanks so much for the pretty pictures and wonderful lettering…
I received your book right before my daughter and I left on a month long trip to Germany, France, and England. We had an amazing time! We returned home around two weeks before the attacks in Paris. Now, our hearts are heavy about all the events unfolding there. Since returning I have read your book…loved it! I’m looking forward to getting part two this spring. Thank you for giving me such a pleasant read, and a little escape from all that is swirling around us during these unsettling days.
I know how you feel, Paris is the world’s capitol city, it touches all of us, I’m so rooting for the good guys.
You otta be in pictures ya ya yah!! 🎶 Everything is just SOOO exciting – life keeps gittin’ better n’ better for you!!! Very happy for you sweet Sue!
They did a lovely job translating your book! I have a friend who would treasure a copy. Have a blessed Thanksgiving!
You are an inspiration! I loved you when I was young, now in celebrating the 10th anniversary of my 45th year, you help make special moments in life wonderous. Don’t ever change!!
Loved your Willard and blog. Seems fitting that your first foreign language translation was Chinese, since I believe they were the first real calligraphers – just carrying on the tradition. And what a tribute to you!
Hope to see you at City Lights, and am keeping my fingers crossed for your Hollywood deal!
Lovely! Have a great feast of food and friends for Thanksgiving!!
Hello, Susan! I will put in a good word for you at Chaucer’s books here in Santa Barbara! It will be wonderful to see you! I thought of you this past weekend at Remnants of the Past that was held here. I will never forget waiting for 3 hours to see you and get books signed at Remnants in San Luis Obispo! My girlfriends and I were part of the spontaneous chorus that sang with your high school girlfriends at the end of the day….what an amazingly wonderful treat! We drove home on cloud nine! Thank you for being you, and sharing with us!
Wasn’t that fun, Carol? Such a beautiful day that had turned to a beautiful night. Thank you for being there, it’s a moment I’ll never forget.
Hi Carol,
Remenber me? We were in line together at Remnants? You and your friend and her sister provided me such support when I was wobbly-kneed at the prospect of meeting Susan. That was a ball!
Cute! We all meet again!
My friend Mary and I got out of that 3 hour line when they called my name as the winner of the grand prize … dinner with Susan & Joe!!! Now THAT’S a night I will never forget! We also drove home on cloud 9 🙂 Loved the high school friend chorus … ALL very memorable … and LOVE the re-connections here! ♥ xo
Still can’t quite get used to it!
Hello Mary,
The four hour line was the BEST wait I’ve experienced in 54 years of living.
It was a girlfriend gab fest the likes of which I have only seen when my mother went to Henrietta’s (Het’s) Beauty Shop (no salon, way too posh and upscale for Het) every Saturday morning in Ripon, CA. Now that was a gab fest.
Here is a big shout out to Heidy, the braniac f/Spain, undergraduate at MIT and doctoral student at Stanford and a raconteur who regaled us with the tale of when she knocked on SB’s MV door many blue moons ago, much to the chagrin of her charming fella who stayed across the street; and her AMAZING husband, Antoine from France, who surprised the girlfriends when it got a bit nippy with 20+ Starbuck’s and who also chased down the rogue cart at the end of the signing, such a winner that Antoine!
Also girlfriends Cheryl Schlerf, Kathy Kulp and Cheryl’s sister, the freelance photographer who was kind enough to snap our photos when we had our time with SB. Cheryl and Kathy kept me in stitches throughout and cheered me on when I was nervous meeting SB.
I spotted the drill team when they first arrived and were mulling around R.O.P. Later in line, I spoke w/Karen (think that’s her name, the one who inspires SB’s redheaded paintings) and when I pulled out “Girlfriends Forever” it was such a hoot seeing her thumb thru the pages and see her pics. What a fun group in line; and what a robust and stellar rendition of “Going to the Chapel!”
We were happy birds to be bringing up the rear, in the best possible way that is 😉
Only Susan Branch can making waiting in line such fun!
My sister, Valerie, captured the moment of meeting you, Susan, perfectly. She said watching me meet you was like watching a child meet Santa Claus for the first time. I won’t forget that.
LOL, well it’s not me, it’s the PEOPLE in the line! I always wish I could get up and go hand out in the line, they are having so much fun!