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 . . .
We awakened to several inches of snow in Aurora, CO this morning. I enjoyed the view from a cozy inside while reading Willard and drinking a hot cup of coffee. I always enjoy your Blog and Willards…I’m excited for you with all the wonderful things happening with your books! Thank your for making my morning so lovely… XOXOX
Susan, your book is now in Chinese! That is simply too cool. This is a case in which the world becoming a smaller place is a really good thing. I will keep my fingers crossed for the giveaway (!!!). And prayers for everyone in Paris…
I just received my copy of A Fine Romance last week and it took my breath away! I actually found myself hugging the book to me because it contained all the people, things, and places I’ve been interested in for years, but never dreamed anyone else was. A friend had given me a stack of your other books this summer and I’m loving them all, but must admit this book is the one that reaches and shares another world with me that just maybe I’ll get to visit too someday.
I am a book hugger myself – you couldn’t give me a better review than that. xoxo
I bought two copies of “The Fairy Tale Girl,” one for me and one for my best friend. I plan to give it to her this Christmas. We’re both big Susan Branch fans and I know she’s going to love it. It made me laugh, cry, love, and all kinds of emotions. I just loved it and can’t wait for the sequel. You go, girl!
Whenever I see a missle form Susan Branch I run and get a big cup of Earl Grey tea, gather my two puppies They love you) and curl up to read aloud your email. Today we are having a stormy day with rain,snow and 60 mile an hour rain. Your email was a joy to get. Thank you. Sincerely, Sharon, Max and Cooper.
I actually left a review of Fairy Tale girl on Amazon but forgot to switch it from my husband’s name to mine. In any case, Thank you for writing two of my favorite books of all time. I seriously can’t wait for Isle of Dreams. Please go to Scotland and write a second UK travel book. How about a prequel telling the story of your first trip to England and Ascot? Thank you so much for letting me into your life and telling your story. What an extraordinary gift you have.
Always delighted to see a note from you in my e-mail box and, of course, have to read it first. That must be fun, seeing your book in Chinese! Due to my father’s work, I grew up in various places overseas. I remember watching American television shows that had been dubbed into the local language – and boy was I surprised when we were in the States, between his assignments, and I saw a John Wayne movie on television in which the actor was speaking English. Until then, I’d only heard John Wayne speaking Japanese! (We used yen in Japan, by the way, and yuan in China.) Thanks for the latest note – like so many others, I love the words and pictures you share with us! ~Ann
You came into my life when I got my first job back in the 80’s. Every cookbook & recipe card you wrote I purchased. Everything on each page took me to another time; an encompassing feeling of an enchanted cottage, sipping hot tea, & reading ~ all were things that your drawings & words instilled in me. Yo can imagine my joy when I discovered your blog & Willard a couple of years ago. The Musica is so delightful & it, too, transports me to a time ~ particularly when my folks dated through letters during WWII. Thank you for being genuine & celebrating small things that make the world magical & lovely.
Delightful post. That has to be kinda ‘shivery’ to see your book in another language…cool too!
Oh, that salmon, yummo, you are SO lucky to have another person under your roof that likes to cook. I don’t remember if I told my daughters that should be high on the ‘requirement’ list for a great guy but, luckily most in that generation do know how to cook. Now my three 20 year old granddaughters know that cooking AND knowing how to dance are at the TOP for requirements! Picked up the 22# turkey yesterday and checking my lists twice.
The picture of the dark Alcott house with the beautiful soft snowfall is so peaceful…I have been there…and loved it! Have a fun day. Xo
Have not gotten Willard yet but am eagerly awaiting it. Meanwhile, I love your post today. “Please Mr Custer…I don’t wanna go”–I remember that song vividly and could sing it about a few things myself.
Have you given Hilltop a heads-up about the Chinese translation of A Fine Romance? I predict, seriously, a big upsurge in Chinese visitors. I made a pilgrimage to the little house on the prairie in DeSmet, South Dakota, once and was amazed at all the Japanese fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder who had gone off the beaten track to visit and sign the guest book.
Thank you for another wonderful post!
I love your books, (I have 3 of your older ones), your art, and the beautiful way in which you depict life and show up here. It inspires me. Thank-you. 🙂
Do you happen to remember which book Colette’s quote about cooking came from? (She’s my favorite author.)
Thank you for adding a little magic to our days! Just got my first Gladys Taber book thanks to the notation of her birthday on your calendars – I decided to explore her works, and find they’re just charming. Another lovely interlude from the turmoil of the world.
My mom got me the Fairy Tale Girl for my birthday and I read it in a weekend. I loved it and could not put it down. I am looking forward to Isle of Dreams. I have also been using my Autumn book often lately for recipe ideas. I love all of your books!
Oh, Susan, what a delight to see your book in Chinese!! I can feel your excitement and your sense of pride as you share it with us. It just proves what a world-wide talent you are.
I loved The Fairy Tale Girl and was so impressed that you trusted us with such a personal telling of your life. I feel like I could have been one of your high school friends your experiences were so like mine. What a joy to relive those happy and sad days through your eyes. I wonder if you know how comforting your illustrations are. They take one back to the thrill of childhood when picture books were our introduction to other worlds and enhanced our understanding of the words with them.
You are truly magical in whatever you create. Like Paris, you will always be a light in our world. Thank you so much!💕❤️
I have to stop replying or I’ll never get all the comments out of moderation, but it’s maybe the hardest thing I ever do!!! Thank you Susan for the kind words . . . xoxo
Susan, I bought ‘A Fine Romance’ earlier this year. How totally lovely. I’ve , fortunately visited most of the places you went to, and was in college(Charlotte Mason College) in Ambleside over 40 years ago. Your book has been such a pleasure for me. You are a wonderful writer. Thank you! Penny L in Dorset U.K
College in Ambleside 40 years ago. That almost makes me cry. XOXOX
Well, I would love to win this book. If not, I may just buy one even if it is $40.00. My friend’s son lives in China and is married to a young Chinese woman. They have two small children. At Christmas, they will will be coming to the USA for a visit along with her parents who speak no English. Wouldn’t your book in Chinese be a lovely gift for her?!! I think so!
I kind of think so too, it has “welcome” written all over it!
So amazing! I have a good friend who is a children’s book author….. her writing has taken her all over the world, and her books have preceded her. I know she never imagined her success and all that has happened. I bet the same is true for you!!!!
Thank you for sharing your art, food and life with all of us!!
You are the bright spot in my day. When I received mail from you I must immediately sit down and devour every word. Thank-you for making my days special.
What a wonderful giveaway! The little Chinese characters are so intricate. I wonder if it takes very long to “write” each one. Loved seeing the picture of Orchard House in the snow. It makes me want to watch Little Women again (which I always do this time of year anyway.)!
Congradulations on your book, esp in the Chinese language. I love the giveaways and cannot wait to watch Christmas in Connecticut. With all the news going on in the world, it is just my happy place to be.
So amazing to see your book in Chinese!! Could you EVER have imagined this back in the day when your first book was published? Probably not I’m guessing. It’s quite thrilling to see. I wonder if a person had both the English and the Chinese versions side by side if one could actually figure out those Chinese characters . . . VERY welcome diversion. Such times we live in. Thank goodness you are available Susan and movies and musica — so appreciative am I.
No, I could never imagine it . . . I’m just little Sue from Smallville! Right? Who could imagine. No one. Thank you Sylvia, feeling so blessed reading all these lovely comments. xoxo
Susan,
You are so talented that the Chinese wanted their own book! Congratulations. You are so fortunate to have found Joe, a wonderful man who also cooks! You are so gracious to have these wonderful give-a-ways. You are so lucky to have your books published…I keep getting rejection letters on my picture books. One of these days you’ll see my name in print too. (I’m trying to keep your positive attitude). Happy Thanksgiving Day to you and yours!
Oh Susan! I love you. Your blog gives me such joy and I smile all through reading it. It’s lovely!! How exciting to have your book published in Chinese!!
Thanks for always bringing a smile in these days of fear for so many. You are a gem!
I always dated men who could cook & I married the best of them! So nice to have a husband who can cook for you and share your love of food and adventure. Thank you for sharing your life with all of us.
This was such a pleasant distraction from work for a few minutes! Thank you for sharing your beautiful talent with us (and thanks for the generous giveaway!) I have one tea cup and saucer and cereal bowl like yours — I always think of you when I sip a cup of tea from that cup! ~ and thank you so much for the lovely photo of Louisa’s home! I recognized it at once. A few years ago my husband and I visited there for our anniversary — it was like going home! That is how familiar I am with “Little Women”. Yeah! nice time this afternoon with your post! Thank you!
Loved The Fairy Tale Girl, can’t wait for the next one.
Congrats on your Chinese book! They are going to love it!! How wonderful to get a box of Martha’s Vineyard sea air and fresh fish! This is an area I need to perfect….growing up in the Midwest, my mom never cooked fish except tuna in that unhealthy casserole dish, 5 Can Casserole! Lol. From your pics though…I think I should give it a go!
Loved the Orchard Home picture covered in snow…very pretty! Have a great day…waiting for my Willard to arrive! Yeah.
How strange it would be to see your words in another language. You’re right, though, it does look really pretty – like someone got artsy in the book and decided to doodle. haha. Congrats, Susan. How proud you must be!
Oh, how exciting, Susan! To have your book translated into Chinese?!! I have given A Fine Romance for birthday gifts to girlfriends and sisters all year, and one more is wrapped for Christmas! Then I will start giving Fairy Tale Girl. My girlfriends love your books…..as do I.
Thanks for loving what you do and sharing it, too!!
Thank you for brightening my day with your creativity and warmth. I just took our little dog out for a productive : ) walk, came inside and made a grilled ham and cheese sandwich – with very thin strips of cucumber on it, and chips. Reading this has been a lunch time treat!! God bless you, Susan. Beth
P.S. By the way, I already have your 2016 calendar, all ready to put on my wall in front of my desk on January 1st.
Your Christmas book will always be my favorite! It was the first book by you that I ever saw, (about 25 years ago). I fell in love with it immediately because it had everything I love – Christmas, recipes, beautiful watercolors in beautiful colors, beautiful lettering, traditions, and family. I bought it for my mother-in-law for Christmas, but couldn’t afford one for myself. I was newly married, saving for a house, with children on the way. But, about five years later, I finally bought one for myself. I have never forgotten that day in that quaint little gift shop when I stumbled across it and felt like I had uncovered a hidden treasure!
Salmon it is for dinner!
oooh, I LOVE salmon!! Just purchased fresh, wild-caught KING salmon and we had it 2 nights ago- it was scrumptious!! A bit of fresh lemon on it and it was mouth-watering! And so healthy, too!!
I’ve made a few reviews of your book, the Fairy Tale Girl, but I have to tell you, it was SO GOOD………………I mean SO GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Better than mashed potatoes and stuffing and gravy, so good!! I devoured it. I was there with you and saying…………….this is why I love her….look at her!!! Look at her turning into who she is today!! You and I dear friend……….so similar. Maybe I’ll write a book just for you!! I didn’t meet the Beatles but I met George Hamilton and James Taylor and got John Denver to write on a song/verse I wrote. My story about George is hilarious…I’ll tell you about it someday. For now, just another HUGS and LOVE about your Fairy Tale Girl. It was amazing…I smiled, cried, laughed and giggled. I felt sad, inspired, and memory-jogged. Wow!! xoxo
Oh Joann! I was just thinking reading all of these wonderful comments, what a beautiful world YOU ALL make it. It’s tears-in-the-eyes amazing. Thank you dear. xoxo
So, you’ve conquered China, huh? I’m not a bit surprised, just very excited for you! I also have an idea. Let’s rent a giant cargo plane, fill it with your books, and drop them on all those ISIS folks. They obviously need some love and happiness, Susan Branch style. I know I’m becoming a better person for having you in my life. 🙂
My mother speaks only Mandarin and I’ve long wanted to share Susan Branch with her, but couldn’t. I’m so excited to see that you’re sharing it in the online store, because guess who is ordering it?! Thanks for your sweet, sweet books and your positive, beautiful, homey take on life. (My husband still won’t let me have as much lace and china all over the house as I’d like, but that’s ok — I can visit my home o’ dreams in your blog pictures!) Have a lovely day. xo.
So excited to see your post. & looking forward to Willard.. Love that was also MY Grand daddy’s name..having tail end of Indian summer in Pennsylvania. Yesterday snapped pictures of tiny dragonfly on my deck!! It was a pleasant surprise for sure. Thanks again for your generosity with another giveaway. Girlfriends are thankful for Susan Branch!!
What a sweet version of the book in Chinese! Now they will get to know our dear Susan, too. Thanks for the step by step salmon recipe. Looks easy peasy and delicious. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. xo
Hi Susan……..not feeling very well and getting the Willard was such a wonderful surprise. It’s really brightened my day. Thank you! So fun to see your new book written in Chinese…..how very thrilling for you!
Feel better Nettie xoxo
Thanks, Susan! XOXOXO back to you……
LOVED hearing your book is now available in Chinese; I hope they appreciate it as much as we do. It does look lovely; so artistic! Wishing you and all the girlfriends a Happy Thanksgiving…counting our many blessings is so important these days. Be well; enjoy life.
Sitting with a cup of tea snug in hand. Everything is packed. Movers come day after tomorrow. Leaving little cottage of 26 years to move to another state, a new home. This afternoon is a pudding of happy and sad with a bittersweet but smooth taste. This post MADE MY DAY! I loved every word. News of this precious book now available in China in Chinese is soooooooooooo awesome. One heart at a time filled with peace helps make peace. Add peacemaker to your list of roles, Susan, Dear One. Thanks for every smidgen of this post!
I just got The Fairy Tale Girl last week and finished it in two days. I had plans to strettttccchhh it out and savor it over the weekend but I devoured instead! Wicked, I know, but I can read it again soon. Love that about books.
While it was your history, there were parts that reflected mine as well so you touched my heart with your words. We are kindred spirits in the reading, library and art parts for sure. I adored my town library in Bethel, CT where I grew up. I read every Nancy Drew on the shelves and moved on to a plethora of other authors. I have my mother’s early copy of Louisa May Alcott’s A Garland for Girls. So sweet.
Looking forward to your next book. I so enjoyed this one, and the last… and the cookbooks that I still use as often as desired. Thanks so much for all you do! May kitties always bless your life!
Recognized Louisa Mae Alcott’s home immediately. I did a paper on her for my ladies group. If you want a copy, I can send it to you. If my memory serves me well, I talk about that house.
p.s. Just listened to the musica which brought my Father back to me. The piano music in both selections sounded very much like the way he played. Holiday gatherings were so much more pleasant set to this kind of music rather than political ranting that seems to happen too often now. So thanks for sending me back to that lovely mood.
pure delight!
I making that salmon for dinner tonight! Thanks for all the inspiration!
I’m as excited as you for the Chinese version of A Fine Romance! You are international! Waiting for Willard.
One more thing! Congratulations on the Chinese edition of AFR! How interesting to see the Chinese characters with your illustrations!!! Well done!!
I bet Jack and Girl Kitty just love to smell those salmon steaks cooking! If they’re lucky, they probably get to lick the plates!! You’re such a talented artist Susan and I look forward to your posts. BTW, my father’s name was Willard and so I LOVE the name of your newsletter!
Oh my goodness!!!! How exciting to see our book in Chinese!! It is the prettiest EVER lettering (well, almost…I like yours best of all!) and I have always wondered how long it must take to write a letter! It’S so intricate! No room for sloppy penmanship there, I would imagine! Can’t wait to get Willard! This certainly is a nice treat today. Thank you, love! Must try Joe’s salmon! xo….Karen
I just went shopping and did something I haven’t done before, I usually leave such purchases up to my husband, and he does a good job… but technically he is not one of us girlfriends, and I know he is not stalking the SB “store.” So I did it for myself, I bought jewelry!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I am an October girl and I have been waiting for ever so long! I hesitate to mention here what I purchased because I know they will fly off the proverbial shelves. But then again, I got mine. 🙂
Okay, deep breath…
The salmon looks yummy, I may just try that soon. We are having chili weather here in the Midwest, cold, wet, dreary, and this “October girl” is loving it! It is great weather to snuggle into the corner of the couch under a too-worn quilt and sip a steamy cuppa, while reading my new favorite story book, The Fairy Tale Girl.
I am looking forward to the sequel! I better get back to the shop and put a couple on reserve, one to keep and one to give!
You are so right, a life shared is a life filled with twice the joy!
Oh, my, oh, my! Chinese! Oh, it WILL be a hit! How exciting!!!!
I am anxiously awaiting the new Willard….I’ve been in withdrawal (like many of the Girlfriends!) but, I know it will be worth it!!!!!
I won’t keep you….you are on a mission and we want you to finish soon so you can kick back and enjoy the season! Love you, girlfriend! Miss you oodles!!!
xoxoxoxo peg
thanks for all your time it take to send us pictures and notes. Have been enjoying your book, Fine Romance! Chinese looks great!
Love what you do Susan, you make my days ‘just more’. Have to tell you, I’m the proud owner of ‘Christmas From The Heart of The Home’, copyright 1990. Notice from one of your recent posts that your Grandma’s turkey stuffing is sooo very similar to the family recipe I use. And for some strange reason I think we may share the same birthday! Kindred souls.
Sweet! I love seeing a Willard in my mailbox! It would be wonderful to have your books translated into visuals–you get a thumbs up from me on that one.
In time we could have something to fill the void left by Downton Abbey…and for now we can keep our fingers crossed. Love to you, Joe and the kitties, darling Susan.
I have collected nine up your books so far, stacked in a pretty pile on my shelf kitchen shelf.
They are too pretty to hide away. I consider them works of art .
You are such a welcomed distraction in the middle of the day. Thank you for a wonderful post. The salmon looks yummy!!!
How wonderful to have your book published in Chinese. Are there any plans to publish any of your books in other languages?
I am fortunate to have most all of your books, including the Christmas book, but I know several cooks who would love to have it. My friend from San Luis O. would really enjoy your Fairy Tale Girl, which I already have, too. You have created such a fabulous life for yourself!
After a day of homecaring, putzing around on this rainy day~ what a DeLiGhT to have a post to read!!!
With a recipe too!
With much affection and JoY!
Lori
So much news today!! My anticipation for your new book is growing by the day. I love the Great British Baking Show too. I must say Mr. Hollywood is a cool drink of water, isn’t he? I love the look of your words in Chinese. The words look so delicate, like they were drawn with a fine pen stroke. Very intricate. Thank you for inviting me to Scotland. I will enjoy the trip from my chair and computer.Can’t wait until next September. My hubby turns 64 this Thursday, the 19th. I already told him that I will always need him and always feed him when he’s 64 and more!
Oh…love your updates….soothes my soul. Happy that you have made it all the way to the literary world in China….they are lucky! Love you books…..
That salmon looks delish! It is hard to come by good salmon here in central IL, but now & then our local grocery store will have it. I’ve been working on quilted pot holders for Christmas gifts for the past couple of hours, so reading your post was a nice break before I go to cook for the women & children (& maybe a couple of college students!) who are guests at our Catholic Worker House. It’s chicken noodle soup tonight…perfect for this rainy, blustery day.
Good for you, Susan! A beautiful to be shared with the world.
The love and joy that you share through your books and your blog are a balm for the soul. Thank you so much.
Lovely! I live in a large Chinese community near Pasadena. I hope I see A Fine Romance in the bookstore window! That would be so cool! I really like how your publisher treated your book.
Oh my so exciting for the book in Chinese. I love your Christmas Book. I’ve had mine since you first released it just those few short years ago. I put it on my bookstand on the kitchen counter every Christmas. Love it and you. Thanks for everything.
Susan you are such a gifted writer and artist..the world is very fortunate to have you in it. You are a gift to all of us. Thanks for always sharing your home and family with us. Looking forward to your next book. Happy Thanksgiving to you and Joe.
All of your work is delightful, Susan. I escape to a land of colors and creativity and friends whenever I open one of your books. Not only do I like the stories but I love all of the art work and fussy little details that you have included. Thank you for sharing your world.
i always feel all warm and fuzzy inside when i visit you here. this is my second comment over the years. i’ve been a little gun-shy ever after making my first comment using my son’s computer. somehow his name instead of mine ended up on the comment. i don’t recall him laughing about it. 🙂
Too funny!
How wonderful for the wonderful people in China to enjoy your marvelous book! God Bless you Georgia Crews
We visited Orchard House, Walden Pond and many other literary landmarks in June, 2013. We ended our trip at Tasha Tudor’s home and gardens celebrating our 49th wedding anniversary (a 50’s – 60’s girl too). Someday, your little island. I’ve cleared a place on my bookcase – hoping and waiting.
Susan,
My mom and I have been fans for years. Thank you for all you do!
Kim
Call me old fashion, but I love big old houses, anything old really. While bad things happen out there in our world, I cling to my simple life, reading, cooking, gardening, quilting, your books and art work, oh my, love it all…… this is what makes me happy. Thank you for all your hard work to help us make life a little more fun.
I can’t wait for your new book to come out. You cheer me up when I am feeling blue and such a delightful writer! Judy from Ky
I loved “The Fairy Tale Girl” and I read it in 2-3 days! I’m so looking forward to your next book! On Saturday I went to a Girls’ Harvest Night at my friend Eileen’s house and I made the Crunchy Chicken Bites from your Autumn book. I made them a little larger so I used more potato chips and I kicked it up with extra cayenne pepper. Everyone could not stop eating them and saying how delicious they were! Now I know what I’m making for our office holiday potluck. Have a lovely day and enjoy this wonderful Fall season!
Always look forward to your recipes, seasonal pictures and decor. Congratulations on your Chinese edition!
Jean
Hi Susan! I received Fairy Tale Girl as a birthday gift a few days ago. I couldn’t put it down! I love all of your books (Autumn might be my favorite, but it’s a tough call) but this one was so wonderful. I felt like I really was getting to know you and was living and dying with all of the events! Thank you so much – can’t wait for the next one!
I would love to pass along your Chinese version of A Fine Romance to our Asia Society Center here in Houston, Texas! We are lucky to have a Center here and lucky for me it is just blocks away from our home. We relocated here from the Midwest about 2 years ago and are thrilled by the diversity of our new hometown! Chinese is the fourth most common language spoken in Texas. I throughly enjoyed reading your book in English and think it would be great to share it with others! Thanks for sharing your art and your thoughts (along with all your delicious recipes!) – you make my day.
Just finished Fairy Tale Girl and am looking forward to Isle of Dreams!! The salmon is making me hungry…:)
‘A Fine Romance’ in Chinese is so amazing and looks really cool! The salmon recipe looks yummy and I already put Louisa May Alcott’s home in winter as my background. Thank you for sharing so joyfully!
I so enjoyed the latest Willard. I was tickled to see Scotland is calling you and Joe. I’ve visited 3 times, and have always enjoyed it. People wax eloquent, rightly so, about the Highlands, but the Lowlands have my heart. There is such a charm and beauty there, and the west coast is stunning.
Wishing you a lovely Thanksgiving!
What wonderful news, Susan! You are such an inspiration for us all, always so up beat all the time. Who could not be happy reading Willard and your wonderful blog. We are transported into a wonderful world when we read Willard and your blog. Oh, and I am especially happy when I see a photo of that precious rascal known as Jack! Thank you, Susan, for all you share!
I continue to LOVE all your Willards and blogs. You certainly know how to brighten a day in this crazy world of ours. Keep them coming! Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!!!
I just read Willard and I am so excited, imagine if you make a movie of your life, so cool. I think the perfect person to play Joe would be Tom Hanks and I think his wife Rita Wilson would make a perfect you. Not sure who should play your ex, Alec Baldwin maybe? Can’t wait to go along with you and Joe to Scotland, so looking forward to that trip. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
What an exciting time for you with more international acclaim heading your way and what an exciting time to be on your mailing list to hear all about it.
Keep spreading joy in these sorrowful times.
I look forward to your blogs and devour them when they come. Congratulations on the Chinese version of A Fine Romance. You are a lovely person to share your life with so many of us. Happy Thanksgiving to you, Jack and Girl Kitty.
The Chinese copy of “A Fine Romance” is awesome . Congratulations!
Love you,
Karen
LOL!!! Love seeing you and Joe speaking Chinese while driving in England! 😀
And thank you for the photo of Orchard House in the snow – I was there once in the spring which was lovely – but to see it in the snow, exactly (probably) as it looked to Louisa May Alcott as she was coming home some wintery evening!! I can imagine that she’s thinking she can’t wait to get inside and light some candles and start a fire in the fireplace and heat some water for tea. xo
Thank you for sharing! I always look forward to your posts. I am trying to read Fairytale Girl slowly so I can savor it—hard to do!
Thank you for this happy post- it has brightened a very dark spot in my life! 🙂
I cannot imagine how exciting it is to see your book printed in another language! Congratulations! I love reading your blog or Willard curled up in my favorite chair with some hot tea what a wonderful way to end a day! Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
Always enjoy everything you write & share with us Susan! You are such an inspiration and a blessing to so many of us! Please keep inspiring us and never, ever stop! LOL. Have a Happy Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday!! Love to Joe too!!
Just finished reading Willard which I received today. I have lots of your books, and I still have the Willards that were mailed long time ago. I kee4p them (in their envelopes) in a bedside table and pull them out occasionally to look at and read again. Looking forward to your new book due in April.
Thanks for sending e-mails: I LOVE them.
Loved the photo of Louisa May Alcott’s home in Winter! We still talk about our visit there when our daughter was about 10 and a fan of Little Women. Just seeing the little desk by the window where she wrote was inspiring. Loved your book about the England trip too!
Congratulations on your international publishing! What fun. And you do have a way of making the aromas and sights of your recipes and foods jump off the page so I’m salivating. Thanks!
Love the Books!
I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoy reading you’re blog. You make me feel as if I’m right there with you enjoying every minute. Thank you for always bringing a bit of sunshine to my day. Love you.
Thank you, Susan, for this wonderful blog today. Last month, I went to my local Gettysburg Library and asked for The Fairy Tale Girl book and the librarian said they don’t have a copy of it, but they would order it! And I will be the first person to get it! Thanking you ahead of time even before I get it. I’m sure it will be delightful.
It’s been a difficult year (husband and father both ill, beloved dog died) and as you and the rest of the world know, a very difficult week, so it’s always so nice to be able to escape into your world for a while. It’s almost like meditation to scroll through your photos or read through a recipe. THANK you so much, for all you do for us, your readers. Sometimes we just need a little Susan.
I thought that might be the Alcott house. I haven’t seen it in person, but I recognized it from the movie LITTLE WOMEN, which is another escape.
Cheers, Pam from Montreal
I read Fairytale Girl in two days. I can’t wait for your next book.