Hi everyone! Let’s see, where were we? Well, let’s not go to where we were, let’s move ahead to where we are! Lots going on in the Heart of the Home these red-letter days, almost too much. I’ll catch you up with some of it now, and save the rest for the April 19th Willard! ♥ Have I told you lately that I love you? Well, I do . . . MUSICA
Dawn breaks in my kitchen, and the outline of the rabbit ears just makes my Good Friday morning. ♥ Run, go get the camera. Love the sunrise as it filters through the trees in our garden, into the windows, landing on my Beatrix Potter People and those bunny ears saying, spring, spring, spring.
It’s doing the same thing outside. A stormy sky is background to the white steeple across the street when the sun peeks through the cloud cover and splashes it with light through the trees. Isn’t that a perfect Easter scene? So New England, so full of
It’s spring again, and the robins are bobbin’ along . . . we are so lucky.♥
And that isn’t all. A big brown UPS truck pulled up out front yesterday ~ I could see him through my studio window, I jumped out of my chair, and Steve, the driver, and I walked together, him, outside, carrying a box up my driveway, me inside, seeing him through the windows as I walked through the living room, then the wood room, meeting him at the kitchen door . . . me thinking, could it be? It seems early! Steve, seeing my eager face, teasing me, holding the box back for a second and making me laugh.
It was from the printer who sends us stuff all the time, but I got the camera, because it looked like it, it felt like it, and just in case, I wanted to do a “You are there” moment, for my Girlfriends who’ve stood by me through this entire long process of book making!
And it was! The first two copies, hot off the press . . . There is something SO scary/exciting about a new book, 
makes my hands shake and stomach quiver . . . I will never get used to it. And coming from my diaries, this one is especially scary. Suddenly the poor little thing is on its own, off to see the wizard with protective mommy getting further behind, singing Que Sera Sera and hoping for the best.
I took my time and looked her over carefully. Did she have all her fingers? Toes? What color were her eyes? (Blue.) I’m counting time by heart throbs. Ba-bump, ba-bump.
I opened it . . . and thought Oh, my, welcome to 1982 and my first little house on Martha’s Vineyard. From this photo above? I still put that rabbit head over the wood container with flowers on the wall next to our door every year, and the garden sign at the bottom is now in my picket fence garden, waiting for the tulips to bloom around it. The pumpkin bit the dirt a long time ago, but I’m still madly in love with dappled things.♥
And this. I can’t wait to take you there . . . you are going to love it!
I opened the book, and began to turn the pages . . . and there they all were, just like I painted them, just like they were supposed to be! Oh yes, a ribbon marker too. Her eyes are blue, and her ribbon is sea green. 368 pages of pretty paper, good deep color, recipes and zillions of photos . . .
I always felt bad about leaving that cliff hanger in The Fairy Tale Girl ~ it was cruel and inhuman of me . . . I am so glad that is almost over! Here we go! . . . The Fairy Tale Girl was the Appetizer, A Fine Romance was dessert (which we ate first, because that’s who we are) and now, for the Main Course, Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams. I hope it’s been long enough so that you are very hungry!
I could not leave out one of my very favorite quotes. This new book is full of quotes, definitely more than any of my other books, and mostly ones you’ve never heard from me before . . . because I wrote about the inspiration that made me put them in my first book way back then . . .
And the inspiration for my love of train travel is there too, and the reason I got started with it, and my interesting run-in with John Madden, the famous football coach, on that first trip, which you don’t know about so far, but you will . . .
And my dad . . . we received two books, one for me to show you, and the other one went off to Blogdaddy yesterday (along with a bag of wisteria seeds that have been popping off our climbers all week). I am SO excited for him to get the book (and the seeds)! I know you know! As far as I can tell we are still on schedule for delivery of YOUR books . . . I think you should have them in hand by the second week in April, yes, and they will all be signed, I’ve been signing book plates for every book.♥ And for those waiting to get the books in stores, I think they’ll arrive maybe 2 weeks later ~ we ship to our Girlfriends who’ve ordered first, then the stores (and then I imagine they have some processing to do when they get there), so for sure by the first week in May, we have a Mother’s Day pub date ♥.
I’m almost done with all the projects I’ve been working on for so long. I decided to make my 30th year a banner year the best way I knew how. BTW, note the space I have to work in? I’m lucky I get that. If you don’t think there are kitty hairs worked into each and every watercolor, then you don’t know from kitty hairs. What are you watercoloring, some might ask . . . and I would answer, for this ↓ ~ I actually got to relive the writing of my first book . . . and feel again all the hopes and dreams that went into it. 
Never in my wildest dreams did I think, when I was sitting at the dining room table in my first little house on the Island, recovering from a broken heart and 
trying to write a book, not knowing how, and not knowing whether I would ever find a publisher, that 30 years later, I would be celebrating its birthday like this! ♥ This is a mockup for the new cover (which will take the place of the ← old one). I promise, it won’t look so glued together when you see it in person. And I already changed it a little. I didn’t like “revised and enlarged,” at the bottom because it sounded like I made the pages larger, or the print larger or something . . . so I changed it to this . . .
The finished book will still have the gold banner but it will say,”revised and expanded,” since that is what it really is. Words. Gotta love ’em. And I loved every second of the expanding! I wrote a 
long forward for it, added lots of new recipes and art, new quotes too, and a much more complete Index. You know this was my first child, I love her very much and I hope she will meet a whole new generation of newlyweds, best friends, sisters, nieces and all the other lucky people who know that cooking is an art, but that it’s mostly a giving thing. This is my Christmas present to everyone. It will be in stores around September first, but in our own webstore for our Girlfriends in June. . . I’ll let you know when it goes up for presale, just trying to let Kellee get her breath from all she has to do about the one that came in the box yesterday!
AND, in the meantime . . . Joe and I are walking every day, getting wisps of spring breezes, smelling the warming earth (smells like chilled leaf compost), seeing the trees beginning to bud, going to the shore and listening to the birds cry as they swoop and dive into the waves . . . It’s happening again, just when you think it might not. It’s GORGEOUS out there this morning and we are heading out as soon as I say good bye to you.
It’s the perfect place to say our Easter prayers . . . we have so much to be grateful for. Our health and family and home and love, warm beds and applesauce and cottage cheese, and tea and kitties, not just today, but every day. With current events as they are, its up to us to hug each other tight and never let go.
We’re having a pork roast for Easter dinner, and, as usual, I’m making this delicious fruit compote to go with it . . . it’s on page 59 of Heart of the Home, if you have it, but if not, here it is . . . it’s also an old-fashioned perfect “Grandma dinner” with lamb or ham! For the people you love. 
I know most of you have seen this recipe many times, but we have new Girlfriends coming to the blog all the time, and this Bunny Cake is so easy and so fun and so festive and so kid-like, it’s always worth a little reminder. No matter our age, we all have a bit of kid lurking inside ~ which it’s good to nurture! For the Joy, because . . .
And now, last but not least, I have a secret (I actually have two) but the one I’m telling you about now has to do with fabric. And that’s all I’m saying. One cliff hanger down and one to take its place. Anyone have a favorite fabric of mine that they wish had not gone away? Love to hear about it! Love to hear about anything you want to talk about! Love YOU! Happy weekend! Make kindness your middle name. ♥
It must have seemed like Christmas when the truck pulled up! Happy Blessed Easter to you and Joe and yours!
Opening that particular “gift” made for one exciting Christmas morning!
Happy, Happy Easter, Susan! So excited to get your book. I’ve been anxiously waiting for part 2. I’m so happy because I already know it has a happy ending. I don’t like sad endings at all!
If your last comment was about re-releasing fabric, I’m thrilled! I seem to have missed it the first time – I was out of the country.
So, have a wonderful Easter and wishing you many blessings to come,
Nancy
I don’t like sad endings either. I follow the Jane Austen school of thought where “after a few troubles all her characters will have everything their heart desires.” Much more fun than the other kind!
And don’t forget our dear, sweet, Maeve Binchy, who I am quite sure has been a kindred spirit of yours, Susan. All good things come to all good people. Words to live by. Thank you for being so accessible to all of us who live in your world.
Thank you Laura, you are so right!
So excited that the books have arrived and mine will be arriving sooner than I thought! Spring is everywhere and you’ve captured it in your pictures and drawings. You are definitely a romantic! I love your blog and have to make my cup of tea ready before I begin to read it. So relaxing and motivating! Loved the photo with the rabbit collection!
I have to be a romantic, what is the alternative? Yikes! 🙂 xoxo
Your comment made me laugh! What is the alternative? You are an inspiration to me because you’ve taken a chance in making decisions and they turned out in the end for the best. Love your artwork, stories, videos and cookbooks which I started collecting years ago. So nice that we have the internet to “chat” with the author!
Couldn’t agree more as I love the chatting too!
Susan, Happy Easter to you. So excited for the new book! I love the ribbon in it too. That was the perfect touch for me in Fairy Tale Girl. I never had the original Heart of the Home, but you can be sure I will preorder this new version. I so love your water colors. Love the picture of your “help” with the water colors on the table. Have a lovely weekend.
And the original Heart of the Home never got a ribbon, but our new one, she will definitely have one! Happy weekend to you too Charlotte!
Hello you brilliant person you! As one of the first discoverers of your very first book 30 years ago I am Soo happy and excited for you. And for me too! I get to share in the happiness you bring to us all.
We have met on several occasions starting at a book signing in Santa Barbara. I had the pleasure then of meeting Joe and your parents. Wow a long time ago.
I am THAT train person and when I saw your Heart of the Home book I wrote to you and Lo and behold you wrote me back. I still have that note!! Ya I’m a fan! Duh!!🙄
I can’t wait to get the Revised edition!! Of course to add to ALL your other endeavors.
I thank you for sharing your Everything. The list is endless and I’m so fortunate to be a small part of it all.
Bless you.
P.S. We will make another AMTRAK adventure back east in a few weeks to celebrate my husband’s sister’s 101 year old birthday!! She is amazing, puts us all to shame! Haaaa. ❤️
Robin! Of course I remember you! You were one of my very first letters from “someone I didn’t know” that surprised me so much, and down the line, inspired this blog! So nice to hear from you! Have a wonderful trip ~ 101! How wonderful!
I, too, became a fan while visiting San Luis Obispo and seeing your HOTH cookbook in a bookstore when it was published. Wrote my first ever ORCHID letter (meaning I LOVED it) and was blown away when I got a lovely note back from you. I know it is impossible with the number of girlfriends now…but you do it through this wonderful blog – and for that I am thankful…get to hear from you all the time. HAPPY EASTER.
I loved writing everyone back. Now I do feel a bit guilty, but at least I can say hello with the blog, and even more important, I get to say thank you . . . I have always gotten such encouraging letters from people. xoxox
Hello Susan,
I had to let you know you just made my day! I’ve been a stay-at-home-mom for 17 years, and being lucky to work from home the past few of those years by selling my paintings and painted jewelry. But with college for my son and retirement creeping up on us, I gave up painting (at least for the time being) two weeks ago when I went back to work full time. I finally got a chance to read your blog this morning and I was so excited to see a photo of the bunny cake my daughter (Autumn) and I decorated several years ago! It put a smile on my face, and Autumn will be in heaven when she sees this! She’s 13 now, but still has her childlike excitement about the world, and I’m thinking she always will 🙂
I always feel happier after reading your blog, and your paintings continue to inspire me. Thank you for making us all a part of your life and thank you for making our day by bringing back such a fun memory of our Easter-past!
Your friend,
Michelle
She did such a darling job! I was hoping you would write when you saw it, somehow your name got separated from the cake in my photos, but it’s back now. I hope Autumn keeps her childlike excitement, it’s a true gift in this cynical world. We could use so much more of that. Thank you Michelle! Have a wonderful weekend!
That’s great! We’re so excited about tomorrow. Have a Happy Easter!!
Michelle
I can just imagine! Give her a little hug for me Michelle. Have fun!
Susan, I work at Joann Fabrics here in New Jersey. One cold winter night, we were very slow, and I was straightening up the premium quilt fabric section. I thought to myself, I wish Susan Branch would do fabric again. Would it be in stores or just in your shop?
I have your very first book. One of my daughters is getting married in September. I will have to buy your “revised and expanded” version for her.
Happy Easter!
Perfect timing! I think I’ve found a way to do the fabric on line. It’s a new world out there, there seems to be “Independent” everything possible. It’s been very hard for fabric manufacturers, and in particular, licensing my art with them, I could never tell my quilting Girlfriends where they could find my fabric for sure. And I really wanted a way for my fabric designs to stay on the market longer than 6 months. I think I’ve found it, although it will be more expensive, it will be there forever, I can introduce new things any time I want, but always have the old things available. We’ll see, just a bit more work and I’ll be able to announce it.
This is just the perfect Easter gift for us Susan. I’ve thought about this a good many times, how some fabric manufacturer is really missing the boat with your designs. Will you carry them in your web store too? I’ll keep this in my prayers for you….which means I’ll also be praying for my pocketbook to be empty and a flat bottom from sitting at the sewing machine. Ha Ha…still my gain all around. When you’re a seamstress, this is very exciting news.
I’m excited too . . . it’s been too long!
This is exciting news Susan. I spoke to so many of my fabric companies about you. Now you can take things into your own hands and provide fabric directly to those who so love your work.
It’s an interesting world out there, more and more opportunities for designers to be independent.
Susan,
I am so excited for your book. Victoria magazine used to be my special cup of coffee, kitty on the lap escape, but now nothing compares to your books, Willards and blog posts! They truly are one of my very favorite things in life! I am a stay at home mom and it is so special to find out there is a new blog post because I know at some point I will carve out time to create a little sanctuary to read it. It is such a pleasure, I can’t tell you! I love the little pleasures in this life and know you do too- kitties, flowers, a moonrise, good food, etc. I am also homesick for New England too- being from Maine and living in Florida- so that is lovely to see as well. Thank you for being you and brightening my life! Amanda
P.S. I am waiting for you to be Victora’s artist in residence 😻
What a compliment Amanda, thank you so much! I do understand the meaning of the word sanctuary, and I’m thrilled to be a part of yours. xoxo I will wear my softest slippers so I don’t make any noise when you’re there.
Amanda, me too. I always thought Susan would be the perfect Artist in Residence for Victoria Magazine. Happy Easter everyone. My family of Beatrix Potter people are all celebrating, especially Peter.
I totally agree with you, Girlfriends! Yes! Susan definitely would be the most delightful Artisit in Residence for Victoria! Make it more homey and humble. I LOVE Victoria but always have to count my blessings after reading it. It is so magnificent and opulent sometimes I feel “saggy” after reading it! But if Susan’s art was there, it would feel homey!
Such a nice thing to say! xoxo
Congratulations on the delivery of our your book. I can’t wait to get mine. My cousin and I are headed from Pittsburgh, PA to Hudson, OH, to see you again. We met you on your last book tour. My cousin took a picture of you and me as I have followed you for many years. It was kind of funny, when we went outside the bookstore, some how the picture had not taken. I said, “Aw, man!” So we will try again. LOL! Looking forward to seeing you in Hudson. Have a blessed Easter and Happy Spring!
Oh you should have gotten me then, when I was young, two years ago. It’s all over now! See you there Janet! xoxo
Happy Easter Susan! So excited to hear about your fabric becoming more available. I just retired and have time now to quilt again. Can’t wait to hear all about it. Anxiously awaiting the arrival of my book. Need to have minor surgery in April so it will be right in time for me to enjoy during my recuperation. Love ya!
I like the timing Asha, best of health to you and quick recovery!
Hi Susan, I saw your blog yesterday but I haven’t had time to write. Did you hear me squeal all the way from Knickerbocker?! It is HERE! Well, now the waiting will be hard….but I know They will be in our hot little hands as fast as humanly possible.
And Fabric? I am so fabric addicted and I don’t even sew!😄 how crazy is that! I have stacks of fabric. And love fat quarters….I think they are the cutest thing. Yesterday at work a customer commented on a sign I had made about credit card transactions, and I printed it on Susan Branch paper! She wanted to know if I had it for sale and I told her no, it was my last package from when we sold scrapbooking paper! “Well it is so beautiful,” she said. “You can never find anything like that anymore.” And I agree! I cherish my Susan Branch papers.
Happy Easter to you and Joe! 🐇
It’s not crazy! I totally get it! It’s why I collect old linens. I just love the fabric, the texture, patterns, feel of it. I love fat quarters, they are like little gift packs! The market always wants new these days. I’m the kind of person that likes to go back and get more of what I already have! Happy Easter dear Chris!
Just a quick idea for those who love fabric and different textiles. I wrap gifts in fabric, Emma Bridgewater tea towels, or personality matching dish towels instead of using paper or gift bags. Tra la, Carol
A definite recyclable wrap!
It is so exciting!! Fabric! I quilt and I have a stash, let me tell you! I didn’t get in on the SB scrap paper….except….one of my favorite pages in one of my albums has SB stickers. I had no idea. I just discovered her a couple pf yrs ago….where was I ??? June is just around the corner. We just toured the Bluebonnets . What a beautiful sight. Spring in Texas.
Bluebonnets! You are so lucky to have them Deborah . . . wasn’t that a Ladybird Johnson project?
Yes….and wonderful. I always think of her when I see all those flowers.
I’ve never seen it but always remember she did that, and one of these days I hope to be there at the right time!
Made the bunny cake yesterday! My Godson turns 11 on Sunday and he wanted a yellow cake with chocolate frosting- so I made him a yellow bunny cake with chocolate frosting. The only thing left is the ears- they had coconut. Can’t wait for the new version of my favorite old cookbook! Have a very Happy Easter!
Dratted coconut, never goes over well with little boys! Send it to me! 🙂 Same to you Julie!
I’m thinking that shaved white chocolate or powdered sugar would be nice! 😊
Yay! Oh, I need the new heart book, too!
I’m so happy about the birth of this amazingly inspiring new book, Sue!
I can’t wait until mine arrives! Happy Easter, cheerful one.
Birth . . . it’s sort of like it, takes about the same time! And there’s pain too, in book-birth, but the baby, we always hope, is worth it all! Happy Easter Karen!
Well I do sew……I quilt. And the thought of Susan Branch fabric and a Susan Branch quilt just sounds too wonderful to be true!
I’ll have to make sure my local quilt shop gets it in.
Because I’m in Canada and the $ exchange is so poor and the shipping is so much I’ll have to order my books on amazon….but then I won’t have them signed like my Fine Romace……I cherish that. Can’t wait for your next adventure….keep up the beautiful work.
The good news is, we’re going to England and Scotland in the fall, and taking the blog with us, all are invited (virtually) to come on board the Queen Mary II and treck along with us, and it’s free free free! No postage, Comcast doesn’t own it, no one does! Hooray! Thank you Barbara!
All the daffodils are waving their pretty yellow heads here, and the hyacinth have popped up their blue heads and we are all jumping for joy because we are probably even more excited than you are that the book is finished and ready to mail out! Yippee! I just finished A Fine Romance for the fourth time, and have almost finished reading The Fairy Tale Girl for the umpteenth time in anticipation. I am raring to go! (as my mom would say.) I was trying to explain to my readers this morning why I love your books so much and why they have a place of honor on the shelf in my bedside table. I think it is because all that you write about resonates with me, with my childhood, with my growning up teen years, my young adult years and my experiences arriving over here as a green Canadian in 2000 to take up residence . . . and I know I am not alone. You are somehow able to get into all of our hearts and minds and we can probably all say as we read along and chuckle here and there and go yikes here and there and maybe even cry a bit here and there . . . been there, done that, and you’ve somehow managed to put it into words better than we ever could. Congratulations on another new book finished and ready for our hot little hands! You amaze me! It is my dream that later this year when you come to the UK I will finally be able to meet you. That’s been a dream since your Country Living Days back in the 1980’s when I used to collect your recipes from the magazine, so a very long time coming. And now that I have totally freaked you out with my stalking ways, haha (not really) I will tip toe away and check on my Denver Omelet which is baking in the oven. Happy Easter from Chester, UK.
I wish I could delete this now. Sorry if I have offended. Sometimes I am far too enthusastic for my own good. My apologies.
All the comments come in backwards here, so I had to scroll down to find your comment to see what you meant. You were darling. I don’t know why you want it deleted, but I haven’t “moderated” it yet, so if you really want it gone, you have caught me at a good moment and I can do that for you. If I don’t hear from you by the time I get to your comment, I’ll delete it, but it’s really nice Marie. xoxo
I can’t bring myself to delete this Marie. It’s too sweet. If you want me to go back and find it and delete just say so, but really, it’s so nice! xoxo
I’m just relieved that my unbridled enthusiasm didn’t offend you Susan! Whew!
That could never happen. Remember I come from the loud family. We are as unbridled as can be! A danger to ourselves and others. xoxo
Dear Sue…While reading this entry I can almost feel your sense of ‘aaahhhhh’, and comforting accomplishment. I and all your girlfriends are SO PROUD OF YOU!
You are living in such a glorious part of your life and I can tell that you know this and appreciate this. God Bless You!
I do, and I’m especially thankful that it is about to slow way down and give me a new perspective and change of pace. We are still finishing up projects, surprises to come for the rest of the year so that when we’re in England there will still be something for everyone to look forward to. Thank you Carol!
So sorry for posting again Susan….guess the creative juices are really flowing around here this spring. Looking forward to the surprises you will have coming up. Really enjoying the large calendar page for March this year. Don’t think I ever pass by it without stopping to read. Someday in the future, after Isle of Dreams is released, it would be awesome to have a “Dreams” journal like the one on the calendar page, complete with a beautiful coloured ribbon, for us to dream too. I feel so inspired by that journal that I don’t want to turn the page to April.
I have it all designed in my mind. It would be a lovely project for next winter . . . xoxoxo
I’m having some major computer issues Susan. I responded twice to your above message and I see one got through on March 31st. When my computer issues are fixed, the above message may post the second time. Can you please delete this message and the second post if it happens to come through? Thank you. Rhonda
I’ll try, but forgive me if I miss, because there have been a LOT of posts lately and I’m not sure I will catch it!
Susan, when you said “Fabric” I was all bunny ears!! When I retired a few years ago I started sewing and quilting, and I love fabric . I have looked at your fabric in your web shop before and lamented that there wasn’t much there, compared to what’s online today. So I am thrilled that you have hinted that a new fabric line might be coming soon from you. Are you ready for the Modern quilting explosion of late?
As I am slowing my life down, you seem to be revving yours up! Looking forward to your fabric and your travel adventures this fall. Love your blog…please keep doing it as most others bloggers are now just Instagramers.
I just wanted to celebrate my 30th year with some excitement, and I guess I am! Thank you Terri!
Dear Sue again,
I have no concept of how much time you will have while traveling through CT toward your book tour stop in Madison (see you there). I just didn’t want to forget to let you know about one more glorious place to take in that is just off 95S in Old Lyme right before you cross the CT River: The Florence Griswold House & Museum. Her home was an artist colony for American impressionist painters and it is where the impressionist movement began in the USA. My favorite eye candy in her home is the dining room. As a tribute and gift to Florence, her artist guests (Childe Hassam, Willard Metcalf, Matilda Browne, etc.) painted impressionist paintings on the walls and doors that surround the dining table. OMG it’s beautiful ! I never get tired of seeing the room and pretending I can dine there: painted panels: florencegriswoldmuseum.org/in-situ-the-painted-panels/.
The site is not more than a 5 minute drive after you exit 95: “By Car: Traveling on I-95 South from Mystic or Rhode Island, take EXIT 70; at bottom of exit ramp, turn RIGHT onto Lyme Street. The Museum is the second building on the LEFT ” on the banks of the Lieutenant River at 96 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371 florencegriswoldmuseum.org/. The museum store is one of the nicest I’ve seen and Cafe Flo is a lovely lunch. The menus are on artist palettes.
Be sure to glance at the backyard of the house next door to Florence’s. The outdoor sculpture is a tickle. Can you find the giant oysters hanging from the trees?!
Love, Carol … tra la … and a zip-a-dee-doo-dah!
I wrote it all down, just in case. Joe has us moving pretty quickly through the country. We are going for 2 months, but if we had our druthers it would take a lot longer than that!
Another Carol in CT totally agrees with Carol’s comments above. I absolutely love the Florence Griswold House and Museum by the Lieutenant River in Old Lyme. The light there is incredible and the gardens in summer are such a delight! Looking forward to seeing you, Susan, at another one of my favorite places, R.J. Julia’s and getting my autographed copy of your new book.
See you there Carol!
I can almost hear you “purring” with happiness!! You are such a blessing to many.
Yes, purring would be good, except for when I’m leaping! 🙂
Happy Easter Susan: I hope your day is wonderful. Reading your post was a perfect reminder of the Beatrix Potter Hill Top Farm you and Joe visited on your trip to England. I have your book A Fine Romance, and have read it several times. But today, after a not to pleasant start of this year, I had gotten to the place where you were in Windermere, and while reading of the boat ride through the rain, looking at the shore line, seeing all meadows, sheep, flowers, birds, swans, I felt tears falling and almost felt that I was riding along with you. I do hope there is a book coming after your trip to England and Scotland, since that is my heritage and I will travel there with you and Joe and enjoy the lands through you eyes and the feelings you convey with your words, photos and drawings. Thank you so much for being who you are.
I am keeping a diary while we’re over there, and we’ll see if it’s an interesting one (to people besides me of course) and if so, perhaps it will be a book. Thank you for bringing back that boat ride on Windermere. It turned out, against all odds, to be the perfect rainy day. xoxo Thank you Bev.
Happy Easter Susan,
Loved your blog! So excited to get your latest book ordered-
the cliff hanger was so unexpected. Ha
And thank you for recommended Turn. Hubby and I love it.
Enjoy your Easter dinner.
I’ve been sitting on that plane, circling around, waiting to land, for all these months, and I am SO ready!!!! Glad you like Turn. . . I can’t wait for the new season.
Always such inspiration! Was a treat meeting you in Bakersfield, cherish my picture. Next time, if I am so lucky, I’ll bring my “Martha’s Vineyard Watercolors” quilt for a signature😆 Have a wonderful Easter.
Was it you who brought the hat quilt to the signing? Yes, please do bring your quilt . . . In May, I’ll be doing a signing in Morro Bay for Coalesce Bookstore if that works out.
So excited to see your first book being re-released. I don’t have the original. I started out with your Autumn book. Then the Summer book. I also have the Girl Friend book. I have each of these books in my girl’s “Hope Chests”. We will be getting three copies when it’s released. Thank you for the inspiration you bring to our lives. Happy Easter!!
I just love this! To be in someone’s hope chest. Wow. That is so nice. Thank you Beth. xoxo
Happy Easter to you and Joe.
I’m am SO looking forward to your book! You are a National Treasure in my book!
Awwww Tiah. xoxoxo
was there a March “Willard”??? If so I didn’t get one – seems you mentioned one was coming.
March was too busy, but I have a good one coming in April . . . it will start going out April 19 and it takes four days for it all to go . . .
Hello, Susan. 🙂 Thirty years ago, I was 13 years old, and not even aware of your Heart of the Home book.. but I am now, and very excited to get the “revised and expanded” edition to add to my ever-growing collection of your books. You are an inspiration to me, because I’m also a “late bloomer”. In many ways, my life is just starting, and I know that anything is possible if I am determined enough. 🙂
Thank you for bringing light into the world. <3
At 43, your life IS just beginning. I didn’t think that was true when I was 43, but now that I look back, I can definitely see how it all unfolds. It’s true, these are your years Danielle. xoxo
It’s a red-letter day in a red-letter year!! ♥ Congratulations, dearest Susan! Ever since our last taste of the appetizer, we have been starving for the main course. I am so thrilled for you. I just know that I will feel so many heartfelt connections to Isle of Dreams! It’s so wonderful that you can truly feel the complete ‘circle of love’ over the past 30 years with Heart of the Home. I have always felt it, too. I gifted that book to my mom when it was first published and she cherished it for so many years. While visiting my parents in Arizona, Mom gifted her copy of Heart of the Home back to me! At our last tea party, you signed our special family copy of Heart of the Home. Such a heartwarming ‘circle of love’ for us, too!
Easter blessings to all!
Dawn (in Illinois)
♡♡
That’s just wonderful Dawn. It’s so funny, doing new art for Heart of the Home, I could just feel myself back at the dining table in my old house (the table is at my dad’s house now), with the view there and the feeling of I didn’t know what might happen, and now, all these years later, I marvel over the connections it’s afforded me. So many. If I hadn’t done that book, I would never have come to Chicago and met you. My oh my. xoxoxo
I love that the table where you first wrote Heart of the Home is still in your family. What a treasure! So happy that your dad will be reading Isle of Dreams this week. 🙂 He will be overjoyed! What fun it will be to have the new 30th anniversary edition of Heart of the Home right next to the orginal edition here soon! Cherish this very special time in your life, Susan! ♡♡
I always feel like a bird on a wire when it comes to my family. Love, hanging out there where it can be plucked, is always a danger. But all is well, and I do feel very grateful. xoxo
Some day, well into the future, that table would do well back in your first sweet home on MV, once restored back to its original form when you lived there. Just like Jane’s little table in Chawton where she penned P&P…
I will always hold out hope that little home comes back into the fold and your legion of fans will get to see it, the way it was when you lived there. Really happy to hear your father has this precious table.
My dad’s saving the table for me, and you never know what might happen. I hold out hope too. I could make the most wonderful project out of that house! It’s changed, the person has added on, and I would want to take it all off! A new concept in house remodeling! Make it smaller!
And, if you hadn’t written that book at your little table 30 years ago we wouldn’t have all the great connections that we’ve made along the way through our mutual love of you! You’very brought lifelong girlfriends together! So thankful to have met both you AND Dawn at that Chicago area tea/book signing….and Francine who has since gone on to heaven. ♡
It would have been a completely different world! Especially for me! xoxo
The very first time I read your blog (several years ago) I couldn’t believe the first thing I saw was “Hyacinths for the Soul” It was my father’s favorite quote and he would recite it on very rare occasion with tears in his eyes. That first time I read your blog was the anniversary month of his death, and it meant more to me than you can imagine. It was so nice to see it again today.
Then, the bunny cake reminded me of my mother. Oh, how proud she was of herself the first time she made that. She made it for many grandchildren, then when she ran out of them, she would bring it to the local kindergarten class. Thank you for the memories.
Congratulations on the book. Happy Easter.
The Best memories! Love that Lee Rose. xoxo
Hi, Susan~So excited the book has arrived and is as beautiful as you wanted it to be! I can’t wait for mine to arrive. Your books are food for the soul, although hyacinths are a good substitute, I suppose :). Anyway, what a triumph for you and for your many fans, me included. Thank you for your unstinting stand on quality paper, ribbon bookmarks, beautiful, vibrant color and filling your books with photos and gorgeous paintings. I love my Kindle for traveling and ease but I must have REAL books and yours are the most REAL of all! Congratulations on the arrival of your book(s) and many thanks, again!
A book is a precious thing to me and to so many people I know, and I wanted mine to reflect that. Thank you for noticing Melissa! xoxo
Happy Easter Susan and Joe!. You have reminded me to take my Beatrix Potter figures out of the cupboard to give them some fresh air (& hopefully sunshine) for Easter and Spring, which hasn’t exactly come to our part of the country yet. Snow mix today 🙁 Looking forward to getting that new book from you in a few weeks. Oh, and I have your pattern for the picnic quilt and have been hoping to find some more of your fabrics to use for it, so this would be exciting news if you brought back your fabrics!
Spring inside, snow outside! Perfect contrast.
Hi Susan,
Wondered if you were cooking up a storm today? I am in the process of making pickled eggs and beets. Have you ever used the “magic egg peeling jar”? I just peeled a dozen eggs in no time flat…no more frustration with those pesky egg shells. Maybe you already know about the wonderful invention, if not let me know and I will fill you in on this secret!
Hugs,
Candice
Fill me in Candice!
yes. what, indeed, is the “magic-egg-peeling-jar”????? mmmm. sounds like tons fun, plus…..easily peeled eggs!!!!!
Hi Susan! HAPPY EASTER-TIDE to you and yours and all the Girfriends. I may be the only one who is hoarding my books to read all at once. I have the Fairy Tale Girl and the Fine Romance and am waiting to get my MV Isle of Dreams so I can binge-read…..I know, I may have a problem!! LOL….. I am SOOOOOO excited to be able to meet you when you come to Chicago at the Tea. My baby sister is coming with me and I am just SOOOOOO happy for the opportunity! Also am excited about the 30th Anniversary Edition…. of course, will have to have it! Enjoy your spring and rest up! Those fingers need to stretch a little I think! 🙂 I am ready for Grantchester to start on PBS and all will be well!
I wonder if you will have read them all when we meet at tea . . . Someday, maybe 10 years from now, when I’ve forgotten all about them, I will have to start from the beginning and read through! See you soon!
Oh yes, I will have them read. I am one of those readers that when I get started, that is all I want to do, so I’m sure it won’t be a problem! See you soon!
Okay!
To think, Lady Mary could have had this chap serenading her each night. Just deserts I say😉 youtube.com/watch?v=_2H2y-P4xMk&feature=youtu.be
Oh my goodness, WHAT could she have been thinking!
Fabric – Ok, I can’t decide on a favourite. The Language of Flowers line is wonderful, especially the morning glories. But I do love Christmas and I only have a yard of the holly leaves (pattern 8143) from Susan Branch Christmas so perhaps something from the Christmas line.
I made a watercolour quilt from Language of Flowers and put the sayings that were printed on the selvage on the back.
I always hoped someone would do that . . . use the quotes on the selvage. Too much. Of course it would be you! We definitely need some Christmas.
What a happy blog post! It made me smile, picturing your joy as you opened that package. And it won’t be long until you begin your meet and greet with girlfriends all over. I still haven’t ordered mine yet, still no permanent address, but that will change soon enough. Our house is finally sold here, and we’ll be leaving SoCal in just a few weeks. I’m having many mixed emotions now; being here for six years was long enough to put down roots, but the most important thing we’ll leave behind isn’t a thing, it’s the kids and the grandkids. We’ll come back to visit, and there’s always Skype, but still…..Anyway, I want to wish you and Joe a very blessed and happy Easter! Enjoy the spring weather that comes your way. Love from the Ohio gal who’s leaving SoCal!
“there’s always Skype, but still . . .” I hear the wistfulness. It must be hard to go! xoxo
She is headed home!! And the happy part for me is that now when I am home visiting Ohio, I can swing by and visit with my friend. She and Bill are very special people and it will be wonderful to know that at least once a year we can touch base in person!!
Oh, Susan…what a wonderful post. And yes, with things the way they are in the world we need to hold on to each other…and be grateful for tea, and friends, and love, and everything! I know what you mean about the smell of the air these days…just in from planting some smiling pansy faces to greet our Easter guests, and my dear husband is giving the grass it’s first cut and saying “wow, it’s really high already” – and I am now making a carrot cake for dessert for Easter dinner…and life is good. Happy Easter to you and everyone you hold dear ! Can’t wait to read the new book !
Thank you Ann, love your pansy faces!
Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy…..Susan, as a ‘book person’, I am so excited about your new book coming in the next few weeks! When it comes to books expected in the mail, I become like a dog with the mail delivery person, bounding down the hallway of our small apartment building the minute I hear the first thunk of mail going into a box. Our regular delivery person, the minute she sees me, will call out if there is a book or not. (I’m currently reading ‘A Gentle Madness’ by Nicholas A. Basbanes, a book about big time bibliophiles, and I now have no shame about my own gentle madness). Hopping like an Easter Bunny in anticipation of your book. Incidentally, you may be happy (or not) to know on the bookshelves you are right next to Bill Bryson. I was just reminded of that because I am almost through ‘Notes from a Small Island, An Affectionate Portrait of Britain’. And I just noticed that book, also, is about an island. Of course, the island you are on is much, much smaller. And we get notes from your island, via your blog and Willard, on a consistent basis. With fabulous photos, and kitties. Bryson has none of that, and I’m not sure I would trust him with a kitty. Anyhow, truly looking forward to ‘Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams’! I shall have to reread ‘A Fine Romance’, too! It’s looking to be a very wonderful Spring!
LOL, not trusting Bryson with a kitty! 🙂 My Fine Romance takes place on his Small Island, we have a lot in common, but I guess kitties isn’t one of them! I love your book obsession . . . as will you soon read, I have a bit of that myself.
Personally, I so enjoyed your ‘Fine Romance’ on that small island, although Bryson’s ‘Notes’ did give me quite a few LOLs. However, your book is magic and poetry, with the most wonderful photos and drawings, and the fact that you write it all out in hand absolutely astounds me. Truly a work of art. Books are so wonderful, the most wonderful personal gifts from their authors, reflecting their personalities and how the world looks from each individual’s place in it. Thank you so much for putting yourself out there for everyone! An act of grace and bravery!
So sweet Victoria, thank you!!!
Happy Easter! Thank you for the fruit compote and bunny cake recipes. I’m trying the fruit as I have Meyer lemon pound cake for dessert tomorrow.
The fabric I liked was one of red ore green or blue background with the little flowers in whites on it. Maybe there were white centers? The Martha’s Vineyard print with words and your drawings of places was really nice. (I wanted to make a set of napkins for summer with that; or for that matter with any of your pretty fabrics).Your fabrics were a good quality that had a good hand to it too. Nice bright colours and drawings were a delight to work with. Enjoy your holiday
Thank you Susan, for the fabric input. Good information. Now I want napkins from that fabric!
I saw your half-page ad for Isle of Dreams in the May/June edition of Victoria magazine, which arrived yesterday. It looks wonderful! I can’t wait to read it!
My sweet mom made me a bunny cake for my sixth birthday. I still remember it clearly, with its licorice rope whiskers – so cute! Thanks for sharing it.
Easter blessings to you!
The May June Issue comes in March? Now that is wild! Happy to hear it looks good. Licorice rope whiskers, already love your mom!
I LOVE everything about this posting….everything!!! But the one thing that I love the absolute most is the photo of you working at your art table with Sir Jack…..I can so relate! I have a black and white tuxie also and she does the exact same thing…Velcro kitties!!! Cannot wait to find my copy of your fantabulous book in my mailbox……..Congratulations Susan. So exciting for so many months of hard work….and your Dad will, again, be so proud. Happy for you and happy for me while I wait for the postman!!!! xoxo from my island to yours!….
My dad gets his book today! Can’t wait! Thank you Susan!
I’m taking a break from baking a cake, setting a table and putting together 3 little Easter baskets for the grands. This post is a perfect pick-me-up. Anticipation for your new book is building – can hardly wait to get it delivered to my door, complete with ribbon and signed book plate. Congratulations, Susan! You add joie de vivre to our lives!
Well, it’s only fair, you do the same for me! (Not to mention your grand kids!)
Susan, we will be at your signing in Madison, CT……….can’t wait! (I think I’ve become a “groupie”)………no wait, I’m a girlfriend and so happy I stumbled onto your blog……two years ago. You are amazing and an inspiration. Thank you!! xoxo
How great to see you again Ann Jane! Did you ever sell your house?
No, we have not sold our home yet…… yay!!! It has to be just the right person that purchases this ole house. I won’t let just anyone live here……….it’s got so much history, charm, and all that an old house should have…….. and it needs perpetual care. There is a fantastic story attached to 5 Lathrop, and I wish I could write it in a book, Susan…….but we’ll leave the book writing to the talented! Thank you for asking, though. I know if anyone understands how I feel about my home, it would be you! xoxo
I read your first words and thought the same thing, Yay! I think I do know. I’m so happy you are still there. xoxo
A blessed Easter being wished for you and Joe…and the kitties! I just finished reading “The Fairy Tale Girl” for the second time. My intent…To move effortlessly right into “Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams” upon it’s arrival. Two more weeks! My heart is a flutter!
Me too! I keep reading it. Read it this morning. I would think I wouldn’t but I can’t help it. It’s leaving the printers on Wednesday!!! Trucking its way from Indiana to California.
Eeeeek
Susan, I would like to wish you and your family a very happy Easter and a very early Spring. Don’t you just love “Peeps”. We can’t wait to see you in Salt Lake City, Utah!
When Joe and yourself go on your walks, do you bird watch? I am so used to the charm and chirps of Atlantic Coast birds. Now that I am in Northern Utah, I was surprised to see Robins here. There are also Crows, but like the Robins, they are smaller than on the Atl. coast birds. But I don’t care, because it is wonderful to have something familiar out here.
I do have house wrens calling for their mates and a new bird that I saw today that is small, dark grey with a yellow belly. Gotta look that one up. What I think is really funny, is the huge amount of sea gulls, when there is only Salt Lake (no fish) and no oceans. Hmmm, definitely interesting!!! Gotta look that one up, too. I bet Jack and Girl Kitty enjoy the bird watching. Gotta love those cats! Blue Jays don’t, though! They dive bomb kitties. Bad birdies!
Anyway, congrats on the anniversary edition of “Heart of the Home”. I have the original, but I will pick up a couple of copies for Christmas gifts.
Best regards,
Claudia
We do brake for birds when we’re in the woods. We’ll hear a pounding woodpecker or some little chirp and have to stop and scan the trees until we find him. Yes, the crows in California are about half the size of the cocker-spaniel-sized crows we have here! They are smart birds too. I go and yell at them sometimes for going after turkeys and things and they yell right back at me!
I was so excited reading this new post!! I kept reading faster and faster hurrying to consume it. So then i reread it 2 more times to relish each word and photo. I will order a copy of new book to go with my others. Now we alll have major spring fever with you. Thank you thank you. Happy Easter and enjoy a little rest and enjoy the happiness of this new book to the waiting world!!
Thank you Debra!
Aloha Susan,
Oh I’m So Happy! Can’t wait to get my copy of “Isle of Dreams”. Just like so many, I’ve been waiting patiently to see the other half of a very exciting life. You make, opening my email, so much fun!!! Thank-you Susan and Have a beautiful Easter!
Aloha,
Susan
Aloha Susan, thank you!
Congratulations on receiving your new book!!! So wonderful. Have a blessed Easter!
You too Valorie!
You got my attention with FABRIC!!! Really??? I hadn’t yet started sewing when your fabric was available before, and then I started sewing, and then you had that giveaway – and I actually mourned that I didn’t win and couldn’t get the fabric! Maybe you could show us samples and ask for input that way? Because I know that I would certainly have bought some of the patterns/styles/colors but can’t really remember the particular ones at the moment. Yay! Will the fabric be available in stores?
I will put up some of the fabrics I’ve done really soon! It’s only going to be available through the Internet I’m afraid, but what that means is that it won’t go away in 6 months!
Hi Susan,
Happy Spring to you & the family… Joe, kitties, The Beatrix Children. I’m so glad the book will be in our hot hands soon.
I am super excited to say I’m coming to the mainland (home) in May & June and….. I’ll be in Pasadena on June 8th. Soooo excited to see you. And really excited to get off this rock & see family. Son, daughter & grand babies.
And since I’m a big time sewer, we’ll need I say how extactic I am about new fabric. I never got any before so this time I won’t miss out.
Many Blessings to you this Easter.
Georgia
Which rock are you on Georgia? Big Island? Happy to know you’ll be in Pasadena . . . sounds like you are going to have a wonderful time!
How are you Sue? I finally get to post a reply! I have been locked away trying to get my book finished. Now, I know exactly how you have felt and I have a whole new appreciation for authors. I still have some touchups to do, but for the most part, I’m FREE to enjoy life again. And, what a perfect weekend to feel alive again.
I am SO excited that Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams will be here the second week of April! I will be able to enjoy it without trying to divide my time between the research for my book and sneaking a special treat of reading The Fairy Tale Girl. And, with a sea green ribbon! I am SO hungry!
I cannot believe it has been 30 years since I purchased your very first book! I purchased my copy (Fourth Printing) at the cutest little store on Main Street in Matthews, North Carolina. It had all the things in it that you describe in detail in the pages of your books and on your blog, pretty glass vases and candlesticks, lace napkins, wooden recipe boxes, pretty stationary, and plush teddy bears. It could have been your store, but in North Carolina. I loved it, but I don’t think it is there anymore and I cannot remember the name of it. I have your entire collection of books, as well as many other Susan Branch items.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful life and art with all your girlfriends. You give us so much to look forward to!
Happy Easter to you Sue, Joe, Girl, and Jack!
Happy to hear from you Sharon and congratulations on finishing! Now we are ready for spring! xoxo
Yes! Spring! The seedlings that we saved from the Marigolds and Zinnias in last year’s garden are already popping up through the topsoil. And, my husband is bringing home vegetable plants today, so I will be out in the garden this afternoon to help him plant those. The sun is out and warming things up nicely after a full day of rain Easter Sunday. The bunnies were out nibbling grass bright and early this morning. All the songbirds are flying about getting their nests ready and we think the geese already have eggs in theirs. YAY! We love to watch all the little goslings in our pond swimming in a line between their parents. And we don’t dare get near them for fear of our lives and especially our limbs.
I see what you mean, but wonderful to watch!
Happy Easter weekend and HAPPY BOOK BIRTHDAY!! Seeing it in hardcover makes it so real! Can’t wait to read it and learn more about how your cooking and painting became your books… like magic, but better, because it wasn’t out of thin air, you know? Just one little painting at a time, one recipe at a time. All the small moments of now that make up daily life. I have to say, your success story is one of my all-time favorites. The part in “The Fairy Tale Girl” when you say, (I paraphrase) Isn’t that the way life happens? You decide how you want things to be and then do that…? And your ex-life laughed at you for being a romantic and fell in love anyway. Well, you DID decide, and DO make your life the way you choose, and it is a beautiful one for sure. I love getting peeks in, from here and from your books. When the new one arrives in the mail, nothing else will get done until it is read, twice… xxoo!
Just like you said, all he little moments do add up! Long slow march, then you get to look back and see how all the pieces came together! Fascinating! Can’t wait to hear what you think Sarah . . . right now I walk around with all my fingers crossed.
Hello,
Happy Easter…Happy Spring!!!🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷
Joyous Easter to you…Susan and Joe…kitties too.
So excited about everything new that is on it’s way..re-…re-…reading the first 2 books of the trilogy….so I am current on all info when I see you in New Hope in May…so excited!!!
The book looks lovely ,can’t wait til it arrives on my doorstep!
Can I just ask how many books we can bring for signing…I have a lot and if I have to pick certain ones it will take some thought.
Can’t wait for the revision of Heart of the Home..I have original…naturally …even thought the Christmas from the Heart of the Home was my first …a lovely gift.
Most of my copies are first editions… Think 2 or 3 might not be 1st ones.
My bulb garden in the front of my house is all in bloom…wish it could be like this all year…yellows…daffodils of all kinds and blues…vinca,muscari, and. Hyacinth.
This is my prettiest of gardens all year,I think
Have a wonderful day
Kathie from Limerick
Bring all your books if you like . . . I’d love to sign them, the only worry ever is how patient everyone in the line is! Your bulb garden sounds like heaven! xoxo
Happy Easter Happy Springtime to you and Joe and the kitties. I am so excited about your new book and can’t wait to receive my copy which I pre-ordered and when I finish reading it, it will take its place on my bookcase with A Fine Romance and The Fairytale girl. I wish you Daffodils and Primroses for a very happy springtime.
Thank you Sherry, that was perfect!
Happy Easter to you, Joe and kitties this morning! It’s a beautiful day here with sunshine and temps supposed to be up to 70’s today! We’ve had too many Easter Sundays that were pouring rain, or worse, snow. So glad you got your first books in and I can’t wait to get mine! I want to read all about your first little house, it looks so cute and cozy in the pics, and about your first years there on Martha’s Vineyard and how you started to recover from such heartbreak. As has been said here, we know the story has a happy ending, but we don’t know the middle story that happened before your meeting Joe. There had to have been a lot of bravery there coming to a totally new place without friends and so far away from family, it must have been quite an adventure and I am so anxious to read all about it. Hope you all have a wonderful day and Happy Easter and get to eat some chocolate bunnies!
One chocolate bunny down and two to go! 🙂
fabric? fabric? fabric? did I read FABRIC??? that work is music to my ears! I have been quilting about 25 years, but sewing more than 50 years. Fabric is my passion. Just never enough hours in the day to sew sew sew all I want to make. And I’ve sewn lots and lots of things. Needle and thread makes my heart sing. I have some of your “tea and teapot” fabric I am hoarding as well as some of the tree fabric in 2 color ways I am also holding back for some well-deserving project, but must be worthy of it’s use! I have so much fabric, all specifically organized into color ways and some by theme, that my friends say I have a quilt shop in my own sewing studio! Yep, I don’t even try to dispute that fact. I buy what I like when I see it, so I always have lots of fabrics I love on hand. This will be an announcement I will be anxiously awaiting!
I would LOVE a tour of your sewing room! 🙂 It sounds wonderful! Post some of your projects on my Facebook page if you have time, I’m sure everyone would love to see them!
Dearest Susan,
Counting my blessings on this Easter day & I’m so grateful for you!
Wishing you a wonderful Easter,
PS~ Just pre-ordered your book…so excited…I can’t wait!
Sweet thing to say! Thank you!
Love your idea of bringing back fabric as I am a dedicated Quilter but PLEASE look for a quality Greige goods manufacturer. JoAnns fabric does not hold up well. And most dedicated quilters will not purchase from there. I’m sure you can understand that we want Quality fabric. We want our Quilts to last and be Heirlooms passed down through our future generations. Thank you for your wonderful stories, recipes and pictures. Always happy to receive an e-mail. Have a Very Happy and Blessed Easter.
Greige goods, from what I know, is fabric before the print or dyes have been applied? Is that right? I agree with you, quilts, for the amount of work involved, and love, should last forever. I still have my great grandma’s quilt. Happy Easter to you too Karen and thank you for your input.
Hi Susan, Thank you for reading my Post. Yes, Greige Goods is the raw fabric prior to printing and dyeing. There are many qualities and your “Girlfriends” deserve the best for our Heirloom Quilts (and every quilt is an Heirloom in one way or another). I know you will do a good job when choosing a Manufacturer, just like you do a good job with everything else.
Thank you
I can say I’ll do my best . . . it’s difficult, as you know, these days, to do licensing and work with manufacturers. But I never forget about quality. Ever.
Fabric!!! Be still my heart! I’m so happy to hear that we might be able to have access to some of your wonderful fabric designs again. I had asked you about it at a book signing at the Bunch of Grapes and at that time it sounded like the licensing issues were a huge stumbling block – it’s great to know you may have found a way to clear that hurdle. I have squirreled away some of my favorite Susan Branch fabric but would love to get my hands on some more. I especially love the Martha’s Vineyard Watercolors toile of iconic island images – particularly the navy and white (and the corresponding fireworks fabric) and have made my infant granddaughter soft stuffed blocks from the green, red, and blue. I’d love to make some pillows from it too. I also would love to make the Little French Picnic quilt that was showcased with your Martha’s Vineyard fabrics in the 2009 Quilt Almanac magazine , but I need more of the red gingham for the backing- which I was delighted to see just happens to be the pattern for your new cover of Heart of the Home! Speaking of which, I’m planning to purchase three copies – one each for my daughter and me so we can sit them on our shelves right next to our originals, and one for my granddaughter which I’ll put safely away until she’s old enough and has begun to develop an interest in cooking. For now, I think we’ll use your bunny cake recipe for her first birthday party next month! Thanks for all the great news and congratulations on the printing of your newest book – I’m so looking forward to reading it!
Thank you for all the fabric commentary, I saved your email for further perusal! I love the idea that I can now listen to what people want and act accordingly. I loved that Martha’s Vineyard toile, I get more requests for that than for any other. Thanks for all the feedback Flo, say hello to your daughters for me!
Susan Branch, I love you! Your words make me happy. I missed out on the tea cup/ tea pot fabric so hope it’s going to come back.
I made a note Evelyn, thank you!
Susan, congratulations on your crowning glory Isle of Dreams ( reminds me of the fifth Anne of Green Gables book). I wanted to tell you I ordered a vintage lamb
Mold and my cake came out absolutely perfectly ! The lamb replaced the one I made from a paper mache’ form and crackle painted white over black almost the same size. I got inspired by you and made a little village all the way across my mantle with many of my very old Beatrix Potter figurine collection. I made a little movie of it & wish I could show you. I added a porch swing, a little chicken coop w chickens, a wishing well, a mirror lake with little hand made Fimo clay cat tails ( in honor of Baby Moses , cause I was watching the 10 commandments w Charlton Heston while frosting my cake) and of course Jeremy Fisher and Miss Puddle Duck, are there too.. Further down , are Peter on a bench and his cousin Benjamin Bunny in the gazebo chatting ; then atop a bramble bench are the happy trio of Flopsy, Mopsy and Cotton tail with Pickles the dog Nanny looking on, as Miss Mouse serves them cookies from a tray! The best part is the little garden made to look like yours and the little stone cottage I made with a real burdhouse, glue gun black stones and sticks that look like tinier pieces of cinnamon sticks for the roof. There is even a lanai, with a little bench. It’s almost too much to bear looking at it ! Anyway I just had to tell you. If I can find a way I will send the little movie of it! Wishing you and Joe a Blessed and Joyous Easter! <3 ( that's a heart) can't wait for your book!
How darling! With a lanai! I’m giggling over the cuteness of this. Your words make a perfect picture! Happy Easter Tamara. Congratulations on a successful lamb cake!
And just when I thought life had become lacking in mystery and surprises….. YOU made all of our days and nights and afternoons!! Knowing that there is something to look forward to once again is heaven. Although I must admit that awaiting Great- Granddaughter Winnie in May (or before) trumps all else! But this is grand! I really am looking forward to reading about how you challenged yourself and went out into the world, discovering your little place in the woods, on an island! Already it sounds like a fairy tale come true! You always amaze me and I find myself looking at my life in a different way because of you. It has been a long time, girlfriend, with many blessings along the way. You are truly one of my best gifts – the sharing, the messages, the ideas, and the fact that you answer us every chance you can. BFF, you are my gift!! Thank you from the bottom and top and sides of my heart……
Oh and you are getting a great granddaughter and she already has a darling name! Life is good Pat! Thank you so much for being here and for being such a positive happy, life-grabbing Girlfriend!
Susan, your new book is just beautiful…of course! What else could it possibly be?! I can’t wait to purchase it! Thank you for always sharing such lovely works of your art with us!
Thank you Becky, nice to hear from you!
Well, Happy Birthday to me … I’m reading this Sunday evening (the 27th) but you posted on my birthday the 25th and my sister just said she is surprising me with your new book for my birthday which she pre ordered before Christmas. So I can’t wait for it to arrive … such a wonderful treat to look forward to. You make me smile and love life Susan with all you do for us girlfriends….thank you thank you!
Happy Birthday Kathleen! Always wonderful to have something fun to look forward to! xoxo
My comments are a little late, but I am really hoping, as a quilter, that you are going to have a whole line of fabric!
It’s going to be the sort of thing we keep adding to, not taking away from. I really think that in the fabric world this is a concept that is really needed! I always felt sad when maybe 15 minutes after a new line went on the market they took it off. I never understood that. I guess the fabric stores need constant change in order to keep their customers happy, it makes sense when you think of it like that.
Susan it must of been like giving birth, and seeing you baby for the first time , when the books arrived, i preordered mine from you and patiently waiting for my copy. And while i was reading your blog , looking at picture of chapter one in for a landing, the television was on and at the exact time i was reading ladies and gentlemen, a man was saying ladies and gentleman on tv! Wow, i thought its a sign this will be another great book, and maybe a great day!!! (Been doing physical therapy for rotator cuff surgery,) Its a slow process, but coming along. Hope you had a great Easter, I did ! Had my 6 kids plus partners, 5 grandkids , total of 20 over. Down south the new thing is a having a crayfish boil for Easter, instead of a turkey dinner. But still had spegetti and meatballs for those who don’t eat crayfish. plus some snacking foods, and desserts. Now there is even a king cake for Easter. (Which is a cake they usually just make during mardi gras time, then gone till next year) So today need to start a diet, LOL
Family and lovely dinner, all sounds delicious and I loved the “good sign” for the Ladies and Gentlemen in the book! Me to, the diet begins today!
Happy Easter & Happy Spring, Sue!!! I am so excited for your new book! I think the happy sighs of all of us “Girlfriends” will create a loud, happy noise! Also, I cannot believe The Heart of the Home is having a 30 year anniversary! I bought it for myself when I first got married. Time flies! 😉
Sure does. Feels literally like yesterday!
Dear Wonderful Susan,
With all the preparing I had to do for Easter Day I knew I wanted to save your newest blog for the day after so I could thoroughtly enjoy it on my rest day. So….. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing you talk in my head about all your fantastic news and feel the joy and excitement in your soul. What a Beautiful life you have made, artistically, lovingly, sharing joy ! I can’t wait to get my beautiful books!!! I can’t wait to preorder your first because,I LOVE your first child too, so much, it has been with me for thirty years. I can’t wait to get the new one, you see, I have given your books as wedding and shower gifts and now I can do it again. I have to admit when I find it in a vintage shop I buy them right up and give as Birthday gifts or just because gifts. I have had your first baby now for more than half my life now! I say my blooming life started in 1982 when I married my best friend Paul and your books were a big part of our family dinners, gourmet dinner groups, and helped me with the fun of raising our children. So Thank-you my dear friend you are the BEST! I am sooo HAPPY for you ! Love, Hugs, and Kisses, Wendy-Louise oxoxox
PS. Forgot to say the new books are just BEAUTIFUL! 😃😘
😊
Shhhhhh Wendy Louise, you are such a doll, today and always . . . thank you so much! I have loved being “with” you! xoxo
Hope your Easter was wonderful! I can’t wait to get my hands on “Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams”! So exciting! Of course I love “Willard” too! You are so special, Susan and we are so lucky to have you in our lives! ♥
And vice versa Marie! Thank you!
If my book arrives before I leave for Chicago on April 16, I will take it along and read it at night while looking out my window at the city lights. Usually, your books are reserved for my sitting room overlooking my rose garden. I savor your books in little bits, because if I’m not careful I could be a total glutton and eat it all up in one sitting! But I think this book should go on the road for a little adventure! I CANNOT WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I think you will have it. . . if the mail does its job. It seems like you should! I love my books to have adventures!
Congratulations on your new book! I love the blue you used on the cover (and the ribbon?). Looking forward to reading it. I see that the Martha’s Vineyard themed fabric has been mentioned already. Some years ago, I bought it in red and blue. I held on to it, thinking I’d make quilts for two of my best girlfriends with whom I rent a house in Katama each September. Well, then my sister started coming with us and I didn’t have enough fabric for three quilts, so I used the fabric to make really cute, roomy totes for the three of them. There’s just enough left for mine (in red). (Have you seen the green version goes for $25 a half yard on Etsy!!?) Always loved the colors you used, as well as your charming patterns – especially the In Love with Nature line. Can’t wait to see what’s coming.
We’re figuring it out and closer every day!
New book mailing, fabric ? Oh my goodness !!!!! Fabric ? Any fabric that is out of print please bring back….please, oh please? love the little blue bird on the apple blossom’s water color. Would love to purchase small original watercolors of yours…..the little bluebird with the American Flag, or the Apple Blossoms even if only 2″ x 2″ hint, hint. I am getting off track. Glad you and Joe had a wonderful Easter. And when I read “listening to the birds cry as they swoop and dive into the waves” I was there in a small boat being rocked by the waves and the sunshine against my face……oh how I do love the water…..I will try to console my heart awaiting my new book to hold, caress and read.
And fabric ?^;^ xoxoxo
Loved that Pamela, the rocking boat, and the apple blossoms. I’m all in!
Hi Susan! I cannot wait to get your latest book. I read the last one in one sitting – so good. 🙂
And fabric? Exciting! I have a fabric shop and would LOVE to carry your line here. Is that possible?
I’m afraid it won’t go through the traditional ways, and will only be available on line. I tried to do get it to the stores, but it just hasn’t worked out. Licensing is a really difficult thing these days. Thank you Sheri!
I am so very excited for the book! Saturday was a red letter day here, I ordered my tickets for the book signing and luncheon in Plainville, MA. It was like buying front row concert tickets, 5 mins. after it started they were gone! I sat there stunned, then decided to try again, bingo got’in’ and got them! You are right up there with Michael Buble lady! Last time you were near me we met in Avon MA and we were getting a blizzard. You & Joe had to head back before the ferries shut down. Fingers crossed we are out of the woods, but you know New England! I look forward to seeing you again and “part two!”!
SO happy you got them, and happy to see you again in Plainville! xoxo
I discovered you when I saw your Heart of the Home cookbook, by chance at Barnes and Noble many years ago. I was not one to buy cookbooks, but your cover spoke to me, since I love hearts and homes! When I opened it, I knew I had to have it and have almost all of your other books too! I can’t wait for my book to come in the mail, so excited. Thank you for sharing so much with your internet friends!
Hearts and Homes! perfect.
Susan…Congratulations on the birth of another beautiful book!!! Loved the quote in your blog from Ralph Waldo Emerson…and thought you’d really enjoy the novel “Mr. Emerson’s Wife” by Amy Belding Brown. It’s beautifully written and is based on the life of Lydian Emerson. Belding’s other book…”Flight of the Sparrow” is wonderful as well. Looking forward to reading your newest book and,perhaps, getting to Madison in May to meet you. Best wishes for a wonderful spring…Best regards to Jack from our cat, Polly Esther!!!!
Polly Esther, is that cute or what! xoxo Thank you Mary, see you in Madison! (I hope)
I am an avid quilters … have been for light years it seems. When I was still working and had little time to devote to quilting I would buy fabric that I loved with the intent to “stash” it until I retired and then create something with it. Well, those days have arrived. I am happy, proud and pleased to report that I have a HUGE (this REALLY big) stash of your Language of Flowers fabric … I value it and love to look at it (even though I haven’t yet figured out what I am going to make with it). But whatever it turns out to be it will be lovely because the fabric is absolutely beautiful. Linda
You were very smart not to print your home address here! 🙂 From what I hear, there are lots of people that would covet thy neighbor’s stash. 🙂 Happy sewing Linda! xoxo
Susan,
I am SO excited to get this book!!!! It looks lovely. My friend Sue and I were all set to attend the book signing at New Hope PA in May but we were disappointed to learn the tickets are all sold out. I was at the first book signing for A Fine Romance in Martha’s Vineyard, was at New Hampshire this past fall for The Fairytale Girl (and my 60th b-day) but it looks like I will not get to be there for the new book. Sad about that. But I still can’t wait to get my hands on that sweet book.
I made the lamb cake for a friends’ grandmother shower, and Easter and LOVED the recipe and the lamb cake was so easy with your directions.
Happy Spring! Mary Deihl<3
Call again, Mary, because last I heard they had a waiting list . . . see if you can get on that, because someone I know did, and then got tickets. So there’s a little chance anyway and I’d love to see you there. Happy Spring to you too!
I love your books and blogs and Willards. I just finished Fairy Tale Girl and will order your last in the trilogy of your life in August when I get back from my summer home. I don’t want to risk it getting lost in transit. I share your work with all my friends . Always the best wishes to you! Beth
Have a wonderful summer Beth! Thank you!
So excited for the new book! Will be seeing you in Kansas City soon! I’ve been thinking about taking up sewing again now that I have a little more free time, Sooo, the word ” fabric” has really got me interested!!!
Well, I hope when you see it, you’ll get even more inspired! That’s my goal!
I made your Potatoes Anna and Roasted Beet Salad for Easter dinner. I thought the red beets looked festive for Easter. Everything turned out great and everyone loved the food!
Sounds delicious. In the fall when I make potatoes anna, I cover the top in leaf shaped (cookie cutters) potatoes and I just thought when you said that, you could do the same in the spring with flowers! Thank you Cindy!
Hi GF’s! Happy Spring! Just finished watching “Turn,” on Netflix, where you can get all of Season one’s episodes. Great series. Yes Susan, it “is” a bit bloody & brutal at times, but I, like you, turn away. Great historical series, for those of you who love history. Of course it’s fictional, but goes along with what occurred in Revolutionary times. I’ll be watching for Season 2 on April 25th on AMC. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
The best part, it’s based on a true story . . . you can look up the characters and the group on Wikipedia! It’s basically real!
Hi Susan,
So happy to hear that my new book should be coming to me soon. I can’t wait!! I’m also looking forward to ordering the new Heart of the Home. That’s the wonderful thing about pre-order, just about the time that I’ve forgotten it, the UPS truck rolls up to the front door, and WOW a lovely treat arrives just for me!!! Happy Spring!!! Love to Jack and Girl.
It’s like a surprise bouquet of flowers sitting on your porch! I love that too. The forgetting part is what makes it so good!
Hello Susan! Congratulations on the arrival of your “new baby” via the mail!!!! So happy for you!!!! (Can’t wait until my mailman delivers the Isle of Dreams!!!!!) Are you on pins and needles to see how Blog Daddy reacts to yet another one of your spectacular books? How blessed you are Susan to have such a super and wise father!!!! Oh my, I was so happy inside to read the word FABRIC in your post! I would love to have more of YOUR fabric! (I made a special tote bag from the Afternoon Tea pattern to carry A Fine Romance to your book signing, previously in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I now carry my knitting in it wherever I go and receive lots of compliments on the cuteness of the fabric!) So, I would love any and all with the tea cup and tea pots themed fabric. However, I was really thinking about all the pretty flowers you wrote about in A Fine Romance, that you saw (AND PICKED!!!!!) while in the English countryside. Soooooo, since I also adore anything floral……….I thought maybe you could design a new fabric of all those flowers in the English cottage gardens, the cowparsley, buttercups, poppy, the purple Iris flower from Beatrix garden, oh…….and the forget-me-nots (I love, love, love!), even the roses you saw on beautiful trellises, and on the cottage walls, and lilacs, and wild flowers. Oh boy, I am getting carried away!!!! I would sew pillow cases and tea cozies (one for each of my tea pots)!!!!! Ahhhhhh, that would be so delightful Susan!!!!! Take care! Enjoy the Springtime!!!
Yes, I’m on pins and needles. I keep looking at the clock to see when I can call Blogdaddy . . . we have a 3-hour time difference and I’m trying really hard not to pounce. Forget me nots is right on the top of the idea package. I sent a design to Kellee this morning and we’ll see if we can work it out. Hint, there is a bird in it too. It’s so cute!!! I also designed a bookmark with your mom’s quote on it. Hope that will be Okay, I think you will love it.
The clock is ticking……..I hope Blogdaddy picks up on the first ringgggggggg!!!! A birdie among the Forget me nots will be too adorable!!!! Susan, through my tears right now, (and shaking) words cannot express my “Thank You” for the bookmark you’ve designed with my mother’s saying!!!!!!! Oh yes! Oh my goodness! (It will be 30 years this July that she passed away…….such a truly special remembrance, a treasure you’ve created!) This Good Friday I decided to make her homemade baked beans that she always made from scratch (never from a can). I promised my dad he would have them to eat for Easter Dinner. Well, I could not find her recipe. So, I grabbed her Good Housekeeping Cookbook, she bought as a new bride in 1948 and looked up baked beans in the index. (Bingo, must have been the one she used.) In my head during the entire process of soaking (overnight/couldn’t sleep), boiling (1 hr.), baking (3 hrs.) these little dried beans, I kept saying to myself okay, “If you can read, you can cook”, like a cheerleader to my brain! (After being married and cooking for almost 35 years, I’ve never made beans from scratch, I was nervous.) Guess what? They turned out great, and my dad was so pleased! It’s so true, right? YOUR bookmark I will rest on the first page of her old, tattered cookbook………..where she signed it with her “newly” married name, and wrote the year she purchased it so long ago!!!! THANK YOU SUSAN, you’ve made me so happy!!!!! I am so touched! I know my mom will be smiling down from heaven…….she will be thrilled……from above! My heart beats with joy!
LOL, your worry while baking, reminding yourself that yes, you can read, very sweet. I’m so glad the recipe turned out well, your dad must have loved it. It’s fun for me too Carilyn, those words were a little spark of genius, and now we get to share them with the Girlfriends . . . the beat goes on, wise words from a wise woman. xoxox
This made me so happy today. I had to do a little searching to find the quote on the blog, but I did. I love that you put it in the calendar and now a bookmark What a perfect bookmark for your cookbooks AND I love how happy it made Carilyn:):):):) xoxo
ps My hubby taught me a little trick for searching websites. Go to google.com type in the keyword you are searching for space then site:website name. For example I was searching for carilyn so I typed “carilyn site:162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/” and it pulled up every time carilyn was mentioned on the blog. Pretty cool and I thought it might help some girlfriends who didn’t know about it like me;)
That is extremely cool Charissa! Now I can pull up everything my dad has said! Love it, thank you! And yes, made my day to hear Carilyn’s reaction! xoxoxo
This might be too basic of a hint, but in case it helps anyone… if you hit the F3 key, a little search box pops up and allows you to search on that page for whatever you type in. A lifesaver on long pages. That is the extent of my cool computer knowledge;) Glad the other hint was helpful… it sure helps me when I need to reference something on your site xoxo
So you have to hit the shift key first? I love these little tips!
No… at least I don’t. F3 is it’s own button on my keyboard. I have a PC. I don’t know about Macs. Hope that helps. On my computer it pops up at the bottom of the screen, but it may be in different places on different computers. If you have a Mac, google how to “search on page” on a Mac. (is Mac even the right terminology hee hee i am PC and android all the way so I don’t keep up:)) Glad u liked the tips Hope they help others too
Carrie said us Mac folk should press the Command button, then the F . . . and in the upper right corner appears and search window. I did it and it works!
Maybe you could do a little tutorial for the Girlfriends one time so everyone sees it. Those 2 tips really help when using your site and may make it easier for everyone. I could look up the Mac info if you wanted.
I am the wrongest person to do a tutorial, I am sure I would lead someone down the garden path never to return. But I love it your tips! So many wonderful handy little things we can do to make things easier. Thank you Charissa!
A bird?! The cute little bird that was on Twitter?! ♡
SO quick, SO smart! 🙂
SO … after ALL this … the MOST important thing … WHAT did Blogdaddy say????? xoxo
He wrote something here, he says he loves it . . . of course, because he is my dear darling dad. Jeanie, his wife, is reading it now.
Hit command and then the F key. In the upper right corner is a magnifying glass with empty field. You can put a name in it and then entered all the times that name was mentioned on that page it comes up. Or you can search for today’s date to see if there are any new comments for March 29, 2016.
THAT is extremely handy Carrie . . . especially to find comments! Thank you!
Oh Susan, I can’t even imagine the thrill you feel when a new published book arrives at your door! You have to be so excited and proud!!! You put so much time, effort and mostly “love” into it, you want to be sure it comes through, which by the way it always does! That’s why we’re always anxiously awaiting the knock on our door!!! Saying – it’s here too!!! I am rereading the first one so the cliffhanger will go right into this one!!! Yeah!! Oh, did I mention I was anxiously awaiting?? LOL Everytime I see the bunny cake I’m reminded of my mother, who gave me this same recipe almost 50 years ago. I still have it, she loved decorating cakes etc for the holidays. I know Easter is over, and pray it was a good one for you. In the week before Easter, I had a wedding (my daughters-who flew in), a 14″ spring blizzard, and a wonderful visit from my great grand babies !! Who could ask for anything more??? Blessings my friend!!!
It is actually kind of unbelievable and takes some getting used to! Your Easter sounds wonderful Gert, and so do YOU!!!! I’m very happy to hear the lilt in your voice! xoxo
Thanks Susan.
Happy Easter, Susan! :0)
Forget-me-nots with birdies!! Perfect. I hope it happens.
Me too Sylvia!
New England is my home, in my heart. Each time I open your blog, I am a happy New Englander (despite living in California).
A word for you: komorebi. It’s Japanese for “light filtering through leaves.”
The closest we have is perhaps “dappled.”
I’m sure there is more to it, but isn’t it always fun to learn a new word?
I hope it’s new to some readers.
Pretty word for a pretty thing. Would you say it, Co-more-bee, or cor-more-a-bee, or co-mo-ray-bee?
I have heard it as “KO-MO-REE-BEE.” (The O’s are long vowels, as in “cocoa.”
Since I forgot to include this in the first post, congratulations on the completion of the new book. I am eagerly awaiting my copy! AND, I’m very much looking forward to your trip on which you will graciously include all of us!
I tell everyone I know that this is the absolute best blog ever.
You are a doll Barbara! I am so happy to hear that! And your book? Should be on it’s way to you the first of this coming week. Everything seems to be going like clockwork!
I held off ordering Fairytale Girl because I was on a “spending diet” and wasn’t buying anything except groceries until I had no more debt. Got everything paid off, so treated myself. But then I held off reading it because I was afraid of being disappointed. You know, like when there’s a movie you are really anticipating, and then it finally comes out and it’s so disappointing. I was afraid of that. I don’t know why since I’ve loved everything you’ve written, but I guess I’m just superstitious like that. So I finally started reading it this week, and now I’m almost to the end, and I don’t want it to end. There were so many parallels between your life and mine. So I’ll finish as slowly as I can, and will wait impatiently for the next book.
I love your psychological drama/dilemma, I relate to all of it! I was so afraid to go to Hill Top and see Beatrix Potter’s house, so afraid I would be disappointed! How could I ever think that? But it’s scary letting expectations run the show! I’m so glad you weren’t disappointed Peggy!!! Thank you! xoxo
Darling Susan, I have about two yards of your incredibly sweet pansy fabric! And of course, I am saving it for some very special quilt! LOL! I have used some of it in two other pansy quilts ( oh, yeah, I DO love pansies! ) , but this next one will be BIG , and I haven’t made up my mind yet just how to utilize it to its best. I think I will do some math and graph out my ideas. In other news, I don’t get the ‘Willard ‘ anymore, and am not sure why not? I am backwards when it comes to anything computer! hugs from Suzette in central Oregon, who can’t wait for ‘Isle of Dreams” to come to my mailbox!
Sign up again Suzette . . . I have no idea what happens with Willard . . . but I’m sending a new one beginning on April 19 (takes 4 days for it to all go out) so be sure to sign up again. xoxo
Being a fanatic quilter, of course I have some of your fabric. I loved the pansy fabric and have used some in quilts, but am going to make a masterpiece of pansy prints , pattern to be decided yet. Looking forward to the April arrival of your dreamy book! Suzette in Oregon
You should have your book by the end of next week ~ if it’s true what they say about the postal service, neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night . . . xoxo
My first post was rejected, it said it was a duplicate! So I wrote a second, differently. I will never understand computers. But FABRIC, oh, yeah! Suzette
Susan, you made me smile today. I went to my favorite coffee shop here in Gulf Shores, AL…..and started reading one of my favorite magazines – Victoria (May/June issue). I make it a point to start at the front and keep reading until the very last page.
On page 22 there was a half page titled, ‘A New Memoir by Susan Branch’, telling everyone about ‘Martha’s Vineyard – Isle of Dreams’ book.
As Paul Harvey would say, ‘now you know the end of the story’.
🙂 well said, Donna!
Good Morning Susan! Welcome to the weekend and a new month, too! Here at our household we are patiently awaiting the arrival of “Isle of Dreams.” We are happy that you made your story into 2 books and love the fact that all of the dreaminess of the first book will be present in the second. YAY! We are looking forward to the 30th anniversary edition of Heart of the Home, too. My almost 22 year old daughter, Katie, remembers meeting you when she was 6 years old at a book signing at QVC in 2000!!!! She asked me to say “hi!”
Please tell Katie I say hello back! Happy April to you both! We got the books here on the Island today — I think they will be in CA on Tuesday, then off to you all! xoxo
I am rereading (such a pleasure) Fairytale Girl to be up to speed when Isle of Dreams arrives. You mentioned your mother’s “black Singer” that always sat in the kitchen. I wondered if that was a Featherweight? In 1955 I was 21, my husband was in the Air Force in England and we were expecting a baby. I had always sewn my own clothes (and later for my husband and children) and needed a machine. I went into the Singer store in Sioux City and I SO, SO wanted that Featherweight I tried out! But on Air Force pay I felt it was too expensive. Fast forward to a few years ago, a friend of a friend had a gently used 1956 Featherweight, case, attachments and all and at last I bought that little black Featherweight I had never forgotten or stopped longing for. It sits in the corner of MY kitchen now. A joy just to look even when not in use. A
What I remember about our Singer was that it was mounted in what was like little desk, you could put your chair up to it ~ the wood top opened on a hinge and became a work space, then the machine was lifted up out of the “desk” and fit into place on top. I think it probably weighed too much to be a “featherweight” but it sure was dependable.
That is the Singer I remember … lifted out of a cabinet and dependable. Mom sewed almost all our clothes on it. Funny story … On the way home from the hospital after having me in 1958 mom asked my dad to stop at the fabric store to pick up some thread … and out she came with a new sewing machine! Figured she deserved it bringing home baby #4 🙂 That was one of the last Singer machines with all metal parts … the best ever … still have it ♥ xoxo
MOM’s, they are so good!
I am so very thrilled and excited for you and all the amazing, exciting, best life experiences ever,that you are enjoying and absolutely deserve. All of your hard work and perseverance. It can not be easy at times worrying about keeping us informed and updated on everything .. as well as having to deal with absorbing and processing all of the emotions and comments from all of us who adore you and want to see and know every bit of everything about your wonderful life. My heart was pounding and stomach in butterflies and knots right along with you as you opened your books ! Thank God we have you to inspire us and encourage us to see beauty in the World and share all things great and small. ( like bunny ear shadows at dawn ) and as always giving us a respite from the sometimes not so bright side of life.
I do worry, how did you know!? I did a whole update about the fabric yesterday, but I was too excited, and too premature, we really aren’t ready, there were questions I thought of that I couldn’t answer, so I did it for naught, but someday soon, it will begin to make sense. So I’m thinking of something else to put up today . . . just to say hello. There is always something going on . . . xoxo to you Deborah, thank you for your kind words, I always feel so supported by my Girlfriends!
I’m so excited about getting my book and of course our birthdays are coming up…yikes..I’ll be 68…..mommy!!! Anyway, I have been unpacking…finally got most of the construction done on the last house I will ever live in. (Remember I’ve moved every 5 years??) Anyway I unpacked a book I bought to fill out and give to my daughter..your book ‘To My Daughter’ and after filling out some pages I had an epiphany…I was going to give it to her as a gift but now she has a daughter (my granddaughter) who is 15 and I thought I should not only give her hers but also an empty one for her to fill out for Gracie as well!! I’m so clever!!
You ARE so clever. Perfect. Brilliant!
So what’s the next cliffhanger???? I neeeeeeed to know!
There are so MANY. 🙂 where do I start?????
Susan I can’t wait to get your new book in the mail! All the lovely photos and the way you write is so wonderful. It’s definitely a feast for the senses. Maybe next time you can make it a scratch and sniff! 😉 Wouldn’t that be cool.
I thought about that all the way through this story, writing about the ocean, and when the leaves came down, and springtime, and when the pies were baking, I thought, Oh I wish they could smell this!
Looking forward to your event in Danville CA
My sister is the ‘Quilting Queen’! My sister loves Susan Branch fabrics and is very excited at the mere thought of them being available again. My sister is the most divine sister, the one who introduced me to Susan Branch, for which I will always be thankful! She would love to see the return of your quilt labels. This may be self-serving, but I might be able to get one more quilt from her…with your fabric and your label!
LOL, with a testimonial like that, I’m SURE you will. xoxo Sisters.