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 . . .
Hi Susan, I am writing to pass on a “hello” from Martha at Innisfree Book Store in Meredith, NH. I was buying The Fairy Tale Girl since I couldn’t make it, as planned, to your book signing. I asked Martha to tell me all about it, which she did, and then I was even more sad we’d missed it! 🙁
My friends and I reeeeally try to make it to your appearances. The last one in Newburyport, MA for A Fine Romance, was a very fun time! I had passed on the Kale salad recipe to you – hope you’re still making it…I have made it on Sundays for the week’s lunches for 2 years, and still am crazy over it!
My girlfriends and I look forward to (hopefully) a booksigning for the upcoming book!! ❤️
Oh my goodness! I was working all morning on a cross stitched Christmas present for my sister, decided to take a tea break and check my email…Yay! A Willard, a blog post and a give away…what more could a girl ask for? Love you!!
XOXO Jacqui (p.s. please come to artsy Asheville, NC. You would LOVE it here!)
I am so happy you are here in this world of our’s and determined to shine a light of goodness into the dark. I’m picturing you drawing a young girl peering into the darkness holding a flashlight shimmering with brilliant light! I buy your books for me and also my dearest girlfriend so neither of us miss a word or piece of art or photo from you to us. As Anne Shirley would say: “We are all kindred spirits.”
Congratulations on your Chinese publication…how wonderful! Love my copy that I have had for some time now…but keep rereading…hopefully the pages won’t start falling out! Love…
Ditto on everything said in all the replies! I read Fine Romance in one day. I celebrated a “big” birthday and my husband surprised me with a trip to London and the Lake District. A Fine Romance came with me. We stayed at the Lindeth Howe house that Beatrix bought for her mother. Enchanting! Also loved, loved, loved Fairy Tale Girl. Cannot wait for Part II. Thank you for taking me back in time……… Sharon
I so enjoyed your newsy Willard. I quite envy all of your travels as I haven’t been able to do that. It’s fun to see all your pictures and such!
Susan, I would love love to win your give-away. My dog Annie has already got your 2016 wall calendar for my daughter for Christmas. I have to wrap it though! Have a lovely Thanksgiving!
God bless, Kathy in Illinois
Congratulations!
Oh, I think the cover of the Chinese version of A Fine Romance is beautiful – delicate and perfect. I laughed out loud at your “protection from wolves and starvation”! I think there is some of that fear going on in my house. Guess I’ll be eating more salmon and salad too!
How wonderful that the people in China will get to see your beautiful book! You truly are helping to spread peace in the world – we do all have more in common than we may think and it’s always good to be reminded of that…Also, I know my world felt a Lot more peaceful, the moment I clicked over here for a visit. Thank you for creating a peaceful, happy place here – and thank you for the salmon recipe. I’ve been wanting to try something different (and healthier!). Last (but certainly not least), thank you for the fun giveaway opportunity. Wishing you, Joe and your family (furry & non-furred), a peaceful, happy Thanksgiving time!
Such lovely pictures! Such a cozy home–made more so by Mr. Jack! I’m getting ready to snuggle down with A Fine Romance again while I dream of following your footsteps to Hill Top Farm. Such bliss!
And how enchanting to see it all in Chinese . . .
I send my daughter a Susan Branch Wish List for Christmas suggestions every year. Fairy Tale Girl will be on it 🙂 My husband and I, my sister and her boyfriend traveled to Ireland, Scotland and the Lakes District!! It was a spectacular trip. We didn’t make it to Beatrix home, however fell in love with William Wordsworth Dove Cottage-walking distance from our hotel-The Swan in Grasmere. I can’t wait to send my sis her Christmas present-Falling In Love with the English Countryside and a blanket with a pic of her and I on Ullswater Lake. You make me smile Susan! xoxo
Congratulations Susan! on A Fine Romance printing in Chinese! How exciting for you! I can’t wait for the sequel to The Fairy Tale Girl to be published and arriving at my new home here in Florida (moved here from Cumming, Georgia three months ago). Looking forward to receiving the new Willard. Happy Thanksgiving to you and Joe!! Barbara S. in Parrish, FL
After just reading your latest “Willard”, I had to zip on over here to your blog to comment on Willard before I even read the blog page ‘cuz I might forget what I wanted to say.
Fairy tale girl indeed! I want to be you when I grow up! Can’t wait for Isle of Dreams.
Are you planning to visit Glasgow when you tour Scotland? If so, please visit the Rennie Mackintosh house; and please, please take us with you.
I can’t believe how wild and crazy (and hungry) I get while watching The Great British Baking Show. Isn’t it the best? I wring my hands, cheer my favorites on and generally act not at all like my usually reserved self…..and didn’t you just love Ruby? I wanted to adopt her! Well, I digress; what I wanted to tell you is that I think Mary Berry (or is it Barry?) is going to do a show here in U.S. next year. Have you heard any thing about it? Let’s keep each other posted, yeah?
Lastly, I hope your next publishing project will be a book about Jack and Girl Kitty. They simply beg to be featured in a book of their own. I say this as (you might want to cover your and their ears) someone not fond of cats. I really do enjoy them on your blog though, free from sneezing, itching, kitty litter and vet bills. 🙂 and that jack is so darned photogenic!
Thank you Susan. I love the Willard News Letter
I am so excited for your next book. I read A Fine Romance twice lol. I am getting ready to re read The Fairy Tale Girl. Please hurry with The Martha’s Vinyard Isle of Dreams. I can hardly wait.
Congratulations and thank you for your blog and sharing your joys! My aunt introduced me to your books many years ago, and I’m glad to have found your online world. 🙂 Love the picture of LMA’s house. I went there about 20 years ago, but not in the snow, so it’s lovely to see.
Salmon is our go-to weekend dinner. Now I have the “Joe” method..can’t wait to try it. Our Colorado house looked a little bit like your picture of the Alcott home since a snow storm blew through last night. Snow day today so I can curl up with Fairy Tale Girl…in English. Congratulations on the Chinese version. It looks just as wonderful in another language!
Hi again Susan. Just read the blog after Willard post. Need to share that saw commercial just today for ABC having a special version of British baking show starting Nov 30th!! Can’t wait!!
So nice to hear of your success with a book in Chinese! I would love to see it! This morning it is crispy cold, but I am mostly warm with a puppy girl on my lap, a cup of coffee and a quilt to finish hand binding on my side! Salmon sounds delicious but we are having left overs tonight! I don’t mind as my husband cooks lovely dishes and hardly lets me in the kitchen. Have a great Thanksgiving!
Chinese, who would have thought it! I wonder how may other languages you will get requests for???
It is getting a little bit colder now. I need to get the last bit of yard work done.
OOXX
You must be so excited to see the book in Chinese. Looking forward to the new book!!! (I am nagging, sorry.) I have to tell you that I have a copy of your Christmas book and I treasure it. I have had it for a long time and I get it out every Christmas and read it all over again.
I am an East Coast ex pat. I love your blogs and Willards because it gives me a taste of home. I am amazed that your book was published in Chinese, what a strange world we live in. I am happy for you and Joe and I hope you have warm and cozy Winter in one of my favorite spots on earth.
Also, my prayers are with those families in Paris my favorite City on the world.
I have read and re-read, cooked, baked and decorated from your autumn book and enjoyed every word and drawing. I would love to add the new ones to add to my collection. Thank you, also, for the Willards. I enjoy them so much. Betty
Send us some of that snow! It’s still clear and warm in SLO – 70 today! I can’t remember where I read it – in your book or on the blog – but you told how you always step outside just before Thanksgiving dinner is served to look in the window at the lovely gathering of friends and family, and I’ve made it my habit to do just that every year. Thank you for that!! Hope you have a lovely Thanksgiving!
I have to say that I count you & Joe as two of the things that I am thankful for. I look so forward to “hearing” from you…in your Willards, Blogs & books! It is so relaxing & fun to read about your life on the island and all the wonderful travel adventures that you go on. I must admit, I do live vicariously through you, although…I try to drum up a few adventures of my own. 🙂 Have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Hello Susan,
Your blog today has certainly made my day so much better!! I am recuperating from having a knee replacement. Physical therapy is tough and I have good and bad days. So getting your Blog post has brightened my rather bland day giving me lovely photos to peruse and seeing your newest addition Fine Romance in Chinese! It is really lovely and so unique! Definitely a conversation piece! Wouldn’t you love to hear someone read it out loud in Chinese….that would be so cool! Thank you so much for sharing all your lovelies just as you always do! xoxo
I have a friend going through that . . . hope you have someone babying you. Get well soon!
You live such a charmed life. Thank you for sharing it with us all. Joe’s salmon looks so yarfummy! (bet I got that wrong!) 🙂
Close. Yarfumarfy .. each syllable is the same.. you have that first syllable, now do the same thing with the second.
I lived in Taiwan in the mid-60’s (Army brat) and learned that they read books backwards from the way WE read them, in other words, the beginnings of their books are what we would call the back pages. So, with that in mind, do the mainland Chinese do the same thing? Is your book written “backwards” for them? Seems like the pictures show it is not – just curious!
Like other posters, I’ve pulled out The Stillmeadow Road, Greenwillow, etc. for cozy reading as the weather turns here in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
I love reading your blog….and seeing your photos.
Thanks!
Annie
I don’t think so . . . page 70 of the English version is also page 70 of the Chinese!
My Willard hasn’t arrived yet, so this was a lovely surprise to pop up just now in my inbox, Susan!
Big congrats on the new Chinese version of your book – how wonderful for you, and a first of many, I hope!
I was salivating at Joe’s salmon – my hubs is the cook around here, so I’ll have to ask for that soon, too! I’ll be sure he reads your recipe here first!
And lastly, the picture of Orchard House is wonderful! As this month wears on, I’m sure I may be seeing something just like it around here…..they’re saying we may get snow later this week. …….
Enjoy the rest of your week!
Hi Susan! Your energy and enthusiasm comes through the screen as if you were right in the room! How exciting to have your book in Chinese. I am anxiously awaiting your book to arrive at the library. Any day now.
Have a great week!
Lovely post and Willard, Susan! Thanks for the peek of Louisa May Alcott’s house. Dec. 1 is the start of Christmas traditions in our home and “Little Women” tops our Christmas movie list. It’s almost here. Woo-Hoo!
Can’t wait to try Joe’s salmon. 🙂
Autumn hugzzz to you and the Girlfriend’s!
Thank you Susan for sharing your joy about the Chinese book. And, loved the photo of Louisa May Alcott’s home – it looks so inviting. Take care.
I love your book in Chinese ! So pretty and exotic looking!
What an uplifting letter to receive on a very windy, rainy day here in MN. Thanks for all your lovely words & art.
Ah, you did it, again! I have always loved your creativity and have many of the beautiful things you have created, even those things created with language! Love it all. Can’t wait to read your latest book!
So amazing to see yr book in Chinese! Thx for all u do-really appreciate the salmon recipe-I have to start eating more fish and will start w/this! U make it look so easy and yummy!
Congratulations on your book in Chinese! How exciting! I enjoy your blog, newsletters, Willards and books. It’s fun to read them all and try new recipes.
I love your books and would feel very lucky to win!
I enjoyed reading Willard and I’m now hungry for salmon!
The first Chinese character is “love” and the third and fourth characters combine to mean “England”. I maybe have the knowledge to identify 10 characters–but that’s it!
How exciting to see your book all ready to go in another country!+
Just about as exciting as seeing a man in the kitchen! My husband knows how to heat up hot dogs and brats on the stove. But that’s about it!
Your blog makes a stressful day turn magical. Every year I read ‘Little Women’ over again and fall back into my girlhood. My favorite line being: ‘Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents.’ Susan, I’m glad I have your books and blogs as presents all year long to open and to share with my friends. Thanks for your words and thanks for your illustrations. Cheers!
So excited for you as I sense YOUR excitement in having your book in China!
Nice to have a man, let alone one who cooks!
Would love to have your books and the Emma mug to give as gifts!
So excited there is a Chinese version of the book. If I am so lucky to win it, I know just who I will pass it along to. The salmon recipe is so simple yet delicious. I am hoping I receive the “FairyTale Girl” for Christmas from my husband. He stood in line with all the women to surprise me with “A Fine Romance” last time so I hope he was brave again. Happy Thanksgiving!
I just love reading your posts and seeing your pictures. Next best thing to being there, especially in Autumn (my favorite time of year!) Can’t wait to read your new books.
I loved the Fairy Tale Book and could not put it down until I finished it. I have loved your books and recipes for years. Our favorite butternut Squash soup is from your Autumn book.
thank you so much for sharing your life with us.
Sue Peoples
How great to find a new blog entry and the new Willard in my inbox! A storm is predicted for our area for tomorrow, so I am going to save the Willard to read tomorrow while I hibernate in front of the fire with a cup of tea. I am so happy to hear that you and Joe are going to travel to Scotland next year. We went there for a niece’s wedding two summers ago on the shores of Loch Lomond and would love to go back. Can’t wait to see your pictures and blog from there. I’m sorry to see that your book-signing trip will not bring you anywhere near where I live. Maybe it’s a good excuse for a road trip! Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
Yes, I’ll meet you half way! 🙂
I just finished reading your Willard and latest blog entry. Reading your work is such a wonderful escape for me. The visions of your studio while you are working and photos of your home and island make me feel like I’m right there alongside you. Oh how I’d love to be when you go to Scotland! Happy Holidays,
Susan — Thank you, thank you. Between reading Willard and then switching to your Blog, I feel like I’ve had a long chat with a friend over gingerbread tea! I’ll be sure to contact Bookends in Ridgewood, NJ to suggest they have you for a book signing — this would be a great opportunity for me to finally attend a Susan Branch event!! A MOVIE?!? How grand would that be? Who do you want to play you and Joe? I agree about Nora Ephron — she was so talented and is so missed. I think your book looks great in Chinese — they did a wonderful job staying true to the original spirit. As for Scotland — I’m already thinking about what I should wear when you take us along — wink wink! You promised nice surprises and you sure delivered — now, if I could only WIN something…… I’m Vanna’s biggest fan! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, you and Joe and Jack and Girl. Gobble ’til you wobble!
JoAnne Daniels, in NW rural New Jersey
Your mail is always my favorite! It never fails to bring a smile and leave me feeling warm and happy. Thank you for sharing so much with so many of us!
Hi Sue! Loved Willard and the blog update!! Thank you! I believe the most recent season of The British Baking Show will air along with Downton Abbey. The season that was aired recently was from a year or two ago.
That crusted salmon looks so good, I wish I could grab it off the page and have it for supper! And thank you for the picture of Orchard House in the snow. What a beautiful place to grow up in for Louisa May Alcott.
Those lucky Chinese people. I really hope they get you (you know, the real you)
But they will never know you like we know you! It’s hard to wait for the sequel to Fairy Tale Girl. Hey, in one of your posts, you showed a picture of a tree in your studio that had bird ornaments on it. I would really like to see the picture of the tree again. I got some patterns to make felt bird ornaments and I would like to make them for a small tree like you had. Thanks, Elaine
Your wish is my command 🙂
Love your newest, can’t wait for Part 2! How cool to be an international author!!!! I’m sure your new Chinese girlfriends will be as thoroughly charmed by you as we all are here! Happy Thanksgiving!
Hi Susan
Oh boy that Salmon looks delish*** I would love that crust on it also. Yummy!!!
How fun that you have your book in Chinese, I mean that is really amazing and looks great. Love that picture of the snowy house. I love all the pictures you share with us Susan
Happy day 🙂
deezie
Congratulations on the Chinese version of your book … it looks as charming as the original. We’re heading to Canada’s west coast for ten days so your fish recipe prepped me as I hope to eat fish and seafood daily there.
Congratulations on your book’s Chinese version – it looks wonderful too! Thanks for the salmon recipe – I needed inspiration, and you provide it, as always!
Boy, would I love to have a Chinese copy of A Fine Romance! My grandson has gone to a Chinese immersion school since Kindergarten (he is 11 now) & so can speak & read Chinese. Oh, and that salmon looks delicious!
How wonderful for your grandson!
So excited about the Chinese version of the book. My school has a Mandarin program and I have become friends with some of the teachers. I can think of one who is back in China who would love it!
Good afternoon Dear Susan….
What a glorious day to spend with your new Willard Letter and then the surprise arrival of the Chinese edition of your book…..I can tell that if I were to look through the Chinese edition I would see your book with new eyes and notice things that I had overlooked in English…..you are so rightly blessed with such good fortune, as are all of us girlfriends who are blessed by your sharing…Thank you…
Love, Kathleen
Thank You for always Brightening the day 🙂
I was looking on line yesterday to see if I could find a copy of Christmas Heart of the Home and here it is as one of your giveaways! I hope you will come to Seattle on one of your book tours soon.
You are amazing. Your secret language is beyond words. It would take me a bit of time to try to understand it “in real time.” Similar to when I learned the French language–if it is spoken slowly, I can understand. But, at a usual conversational pace, I have trouble. I love your art, your inspiration, and your drive and desire to use your voice to share your story. I think Hollywood could have a wonderful romantic comedy series with your ideas. Be sure to be involved in the casting. That will be the whole core of success for your story. I have a Siamese cat and your kitties are just adorable. Thanks for sharing the photos.
I so look forward to your blog entries and Willards. My kitties are as helpful as your Jack.
Dear Susan, made your gingerbread cake, husband loved it! Next time I will make it into muffins and top with cinnamon cream cheese frosting. Awaiting Willard. Debby
Susan,your blog is food for my soul! Thank you…..speaking of food that salmon looks delicious! Just wonderful…MJ
Loved your book Susan…I laughed and cried along with you. Congratulations on being published in China! I was wondering the same….do other couples bicker in their car rides while on vacation? Haha! Your books are an inspiration for me to cook and make my house more “homier” (if that’s a word?). Thank you for spreading your joy! I look forward to your blogs.
It was so wonderful to get your update, Susan. Now, I can look forward to reading my Willard, when it arrives. I have to admit that one of my favorite things would be to have a cup of your Gingerbread tea, in the company of your cats. I think that they are delightful!
Such a generous and pretty giveaway Susan.
Love receiving your newsletter and read right to the end and that salmon looks so delish! ♥
p.s. Had meant to say that all that gorgeous “home comfort” in your books would go down a huge treat for me at the moment! 🙂
Oh how wonderful that house in the snow. Picture perfect and thank you for giving us a free screen saver.
You have to be over the moon with the A Fine Romance being published in Chinese. So fun to look at the pictures since of course I do not understand a word.
I loved The Fairy Tale Girl so much and patiently (not) waiting for your next book.
Will Willard have a cookie jar this time? I have not received it yet, but I love reading it so much. Thank you for all you do for us, you are such an inspiration of living life to it’s fullest. Simple things just say love. Jucy C
Hi Susan…I just want to say, “Well Done” on your new book and also for it being published in Chinese. I always liked their writing system. It is very artistic and that is so inspirational to see it on the page. Your watercolors are just awesome. Also, the words printed in the Chinese version look super. I am part Irish and the page with the seagulls is beautiful. Nature is so healing. Thank You for sharing such comforting details of your life with us. Peace and Joy Always.
Thank you so much for such a wonderful blog post. With all the craziness in the world around us, it is so comforting to read and think about all the beautiful calming things in the world: love, family, kitties, books, nature, snow, etc. I always tell my 12-year old daughter, “Yes, there is a lot of bad in this world, but I truly believe good still outweighs evil and it is our job to keep weighing down the good side. Thank you for contributing so much to the good in this world. I am so deeply grateful. Congratulations on the Chinese version of your book. That is fantastic!
Thank you Susan for cheering up my day! I keep your emails and reread them when I need a lift!
Hello Susan!
What a wonderful surprise to find your new blog a few minutes ago. How exciting it must be for you to see “A Fine Romance” printed in Chinese!! Not seeing your new Willard letter in my mailbox, I did check my spam folder and there it was hiding on me. Will enjoy reading it this evening over a cup of your spring tea.
About an hour ago while I was on my treadmill reading a self help book called, Creating Your Best Life, and came upon a section on “values” and they suggested writing down favorite characters from books, media, literature, etc. and I immediately thought of you! You are like a “safe haven” in this crazy world that we live in and it is very calming, joyful and pleasant to read your blogs which are always filled with love, humor, great recipes (thank Joe for his salmon recipe, will make this week) and fabulous photos!
I think that I can safely say that all your “girlfriends” admire and love you and your little family! Happy Thanksgiving to you all! 🙂
Michele
We are having a very gloomy rainy day—perfect for sipping a cup of Gingerbread Tea–it sounds wonderful! Your little helper is adorable!
It has been a long, dreary day here in the Midwest. I’ve been in the kitchen all day preparing food for guests. I am weary but your post really made it all better. Thank you for sharing!!!
Hello! I so enjoy reading your blog and getting Willard in my e-mail! There is just a wonderful feeling of warmth and coziness from it all! When I discovered your cookbooks a few years ago I was at once smitten! Your wonderful cookbooks are the only cookbooks I read from cover to cover! Thank you for all that you do!
I am anxiously awaiting the next book! I tried my best to savor each page of
The Fair Tale Girl, but finished it way too quickly!
Thank you for sharing your life with all of us…and being so “real”.
XXOO, Marcella Seeley
How very exciting! To think that China is reading your book! Yeah!
Karen
P.S. I have posted on your last two posts and it never shows. Says moderating! What does that mean. Never had that problem before.
I just got about 500 comments all at once so I’m trying to work through them — I read them, and then they have to be “approved” so that the spam doesn’t get through. It’s not you, it’s me!
Thank you for your wonderful blog! I am thrilled about the book in Chinese–it’s delightful! This entire email is a great treat. Thank you for sharing your world with us. You are tremendously exciting and creative! Always a joy!
You must be over the moon. Chinese edition, maybe a movie…..can it get any better? Sure, a roadtrip, a sail across the pond with a picnic. You are still living that fairy tale life. Plan to prepare that salmon real soon and hope Vanna picks me for one of the giveaways! Blog and Willard, thank you for making this a splendid afternoon of reading.
Count me in the giveaway! Looks like I can preorder your new book already. I will have to get it and maybe reorder my mom more tea for her tea tin for a Christmas gift. OOPS! My mom is a fan and reads all your comments. Spoiler Alert Mom! :)) xo
I am reading and loving “Fairytale Girl” which I knew I would! I love each and every one of your books, the quotes and tips, wonderful recipes, and all of your cozy, homey items in your store. Congrats on having your book published in Chinese! The Chinese lettering IS very pretty! I’d LOVE to have one.
Thanks for adding so much to the world.
You are a good person, Susan Branch. A mighty good person! Just a delight to know and, honestly, I truly do feel like you’re a friend. Your hard work and dedication are truly appreciated! xoxo
I have adored your books, like Barb, since 1988. What a great discovery! I cannot wait for the next book. Fairy Tale Girl was devoured way to quickly…. You have always found joy in the smallest things and shared them with us all. Thank you so much, Sue!
Have loved your musings forever…will enjoy your new book.
Susan Dear,
Such a lovely post! I so want to nibble on that little piece of salmon sticking over the edge … we might have to toss a coin! I’m keeping that recipe nearby. Yum!
And how WON-DER-FUL to have your beautiful book printed in Chinese. OMGoodness … I can only imagine how exciting that must feel for you. Your little treasure off to bring joy and beauty to a whole new world on the other side of the planet. You’ll be as famous as Anne with an “E” for we get many, many Japanese tourists coming to PEI, Canada, who are all smitten with LMM’s beautiful Anne books. I just love it! And now your dear book into Chinese. I wish it all the best for much success on its newest journey!
I’m so looking forward to Willard when it arrives in my box. Such treats to look forward to.
Which reminds me, my dearest of friends, Jean, just sent me Jacquie Lawson’s 2015 Victorian e-Advent Calendar. I adored the Edwardian one of a couple years ago, and last year it was all about the European Christmas Markets. Jacquie’s calendar has pre-December 1st treats, so I’ve already visited and decorated a tree and checked out the townsite and made snowflakes. Do you get it? I’d love to send you one if you haven’t already got one for 2015.
Sending my warmest wishes and blisses …
Brenda
xox
Oh, Susan! A Fine Romance in Chinese!! How wonderful! I love how they included all your wonderful details! Such a treasure and so wonderful to know people all over the world can enjoy A Fine Romance! Speaking of that, my husband and teenage son gave me the sweetest surprise ever for my birthday in Oct! They know how I long to visit England (which I kinda feel like I did in a way with reading A Fine Romance over and over!! Thanks SO much for bringing us along! 🙂 and they remembered how I said I’d love to try Grasmere gingerbread. I found their website and discovered they will ship the gingerbread to the US! I said I’d love to order some one day and to my delight, I had the joy of unwrapping a package of goodies right from Grasmere! My guys gifted me with the MOST delicious Grasmere gingerbread – oh, it’s so amazing! – and wonderful Rum Butter in a beautiful wooden keepsake box with an image of Sarah Nelson’s bakery! They also spoiled me with 5 kinds of mouth watering fudge (love the ginger fudge!) and a lovely tea towel, birthday card and cotton gift bag all with the lovely little shop on them. And the tea towel has Sarah Nelson herself on it! Oh, how I treasure these gifts from that tiny shop way over there in England! I feel like I’ve visited there as a little piece of England came here to me! I hope you and Joe and your kitties (my dad loved giving rubber bands to his kitties:) and all your family and friends have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas season!!
Hello, Susan! Had the joy of visiting MV in September. Purchased Fairy Tale Girl at Bunch of Grapes (looking forward to Isle of Dreams), visited your woolen shop, and had a wonderful tour of the island trying to guess where your house was. Stalking, I guess, but in a good way. :~) What a magical place (loved the gingerbread house village!). Thank you for the giveaway. Love from Central CA!
Thank you so much for sharing your exuberance for life with an ailing world. I enjoy getting caught up in another world (that’s yours). Love your artwork. And I adore Jack. Girl Kitty as well, but my heart belongs to a black and white.
Can’t wait to get my Willard… I have been reading since the first one came out
Wow, that is awesome! I love how it still has a hand-lettered look, too!
Congratulations!
Thank you Susan! You are a gift. I recently read Fairy Tale Girl and it took me back in time- as I grew up in CA in the same era. So many things I had forgotten that you brought back to light. Loved it. Also looking forward to the sequel.
I just re-read your Autumn book just to keep getting “my fix” of your creations.
Such joy!
Congratulations on the book! I’m sure the chinese ladies will adore it as we have. Thanks for the clear steps on the salmon. Having some tomorrow.
Emma
How lovely you are to share your life and all your exciting happenings with us. Keeping my fingers crossed that I might be lucky enough to win what would definitely be the most wonderful Christmas gift.
Hello again, Susan! Thank you for another delight in my inbox. Your blog always comes in just when I need it!
Seeing the Fine Romance with Chinese lettering is fascinating… I had the good fortune to stay for several days in a remote, tiny b&b almost touching the Great Wall a few years ago! The owners were a dear young couple who cooked healthy food like a dream (plus grandma grew the best tomatoes I’ve ever eaten, whilst carrying their baby boy on her hip). They didn’t have much but gave us gifts galore and huge smiles. While we were there, a large French family came running along the top of the Wall and joined us for lunch.
Such a happy memory. It’s lovely to think of the young couple enjoying your book in their language. They didn’t speak much English.
I like things that you like, and I like your sentiments. Be well, and carpe diem. Sally
Thank you for the lovely photo of Louisa May Alcott’s House, Orchard House, especially in the snow! One of my favorite series! (Along with all of your books, of course!) 😉
Dear Susan,
Sounds like a very exciting 2016 for you and yours! Can’t wait to go to Scotland with you – I’ve never been 🙂
I also have never been to Louisa May Alcott’s house which isn’t very far from where I live – I should go visit it, soon.
Grace and peace to you!
I feel like you are getting us all into the festive spirit with your giveaways and cheerful post. I’m ready for the “intimate delights” of winter!
I read Snow Flower and the Secret Fan many years ago. It was my introduction to Chinese women in the 1800’s. I hope the women of China love your book as much as we. Keep writing, Susan! You have such a way with words.
Congratulations on having your book published in Chinese fantastic achievement. Love the screen saver thank you