Happy Monday Girlfriends! MUSICA . . . We’ve been busy-busy, as usual. How’s everything with you? Joe and I are just getting “ready to GO” cross the country and meet everyone . . . doing little things around the house so I can feel proud that when we come home, nothing will upset us. Like dirty curtains or something. Hate that.
Joe repainted the downstairs bathroom, which needed it. We took all the pictures off the wall, cleaned them, washed and shined the glass, and put them back. And then I washed this little dresser scarf we have on a white painted table in there, oooooh, needed it bad.
Spring is for Dust Bunnies.
I love old-fashioned starch you mix with water . . . crisp and white is the name of the game. Starched things stay looking fresh a LOT longer than unstarched things. By about a year I would say.
So pretty. So happy here in . . .
I did the little curtain in the bathroom too. Ancient though it is. But starched, you can’t tell. If this curtain could talk!
When I first moved to the Island I brought lace tablecloths from California and made bedroom curtains from them. This curtain watched me write my first book! It saw Joe and I fall in love! It’s the last survivor of them all and I am babying it.
Section-by-section, I remove dishes from the shelves, put them in the dishwasher, wash the shelves and put them back. The last time I did this was last fall . . . We’ll be gone two months and if I didn’t do it now, by the time we get home, this would probably reach out and slap me the moment I walked in the door. It’s all sparkly now, and I’m a proud mommy.
As for spring, we’ve had a week of anything but, including rain storms, huge winds, and giant clumps of snow.
Can you see it out there? It’s all melted now, but we’ve even had fires and made chicken stock. Gathering in the last bits of winter.
Y U M
With just a soupçon suggestion of spring . . . because my kitchen is my favorite place.
We stopped by the nursery before the rain started . . . very cheery . . . the juxtaposition between the indoors and the out!
Between snow drops and rain yesterday, I ran out and took pictures because oh yes, it is coming. Yellow is the rightest color for spring. ♥
Unless it’s pink. The buds for the magnolia and cherries are fat and swollen and ready to pop on the first sunny day. And we’ll still be here to make one of these bouquets. ♥
Oh yes, and hang some laundry on the line. Fluff the quilts. We are happy!
I do think we will miss this . . . the Beauty Bush will have to bloom without us here to see it.
And likely we will be too late for this when we get home in July. Definitely the peonies will be long gone. But if it gets nice before we go, I will be planting the garden the best I can so it will be pretty when we get back. Home. My favorite place. Home, without a book to write, just a house to clean, a stove to cook things on, and a garden to dig in? Oh, you know, I am so looking forward to that.
And these guys. I will miss them. Hardest thing of all to say goodbye to. Because I’m afraid they will think I’m abandoning them. But I’m NOT.
B E L O V E D
HOWEVER, there is a lovely exchange . . . I get to go see everyone, and put faces to the lovely comments I’ve received from my Girlfriends while creating books . . . As I’ve mentioned, there can be a real loneliness to book writing . . . but you make it much more bearable! So, as usual, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you are going to one of the signings, be sure to wear your Fairy Tale Girl Badge so we can know each other . . . You can get it Here . . .
And Lookit how cute you are.♥ I can’t wait. . . The funnest book signings in the world are what I get to go to. Joe loves them too. And we didn’t get to go for The Fairy Tale Girl . . . we stayed home so I could finish Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams. This photo was taken back in 2013 when we went for A Fine Romance . . . so this next book signing adventure is actually a double whammy.
This was from the tea party in Wilamette (near Chicago) in 2013, and we’re going back for another one! Who wouldn’t! These people are so happy because they have just been given the best tea in the world, cakes and everything! I’m telling you, I have the best Girlfriends! ♥
So often, it’s a family affair, mom’s and daughters and sisters come together . . . LOVE it.
You all know Chris Wells from Texas who leaves such nice comments on the Blog? There she is (on the left) in Ohio with her whole family! I have no words for how honored I felt that they came to see me.♥
And some of my California Girlfriends . . . came from Palo Alto to San Luis Obispo. Honored again! ♥
So yes, I’m doing this . . . lots of it. Not that it’s helping in any visual way, but I’m feeling pretty perky on the inside with lots of energy, despite the ravages of time fully developed on the outside. Whatever.
Mas MUSICA
And I got this sent off to the printer . . . It’s the 30th Anniversary Edition of Heart of the Home with lots of new pages and art and recipes. SO exciting. The endpapers in the first book were blank, so I got to decorate them for this book, and lots of other things . . . and of course this one will have a nice bright red ribbon. I can’t help it. I have always loved books with ribbons.
And I did a cute ad for Yankee Magazine . . . for the May-June issue. AND, I got an entertainment lawyer to work out the details on the option for the three books for either a movie or a TV series! Remember that? It is still sort of happening! I don’t think it WILL happen, because it’s just too crazy, but it still could! It hasn’t fallen through yet, and until it does, I intend to enjoy the heck out of it! The first thing the lawyer asked me was who I wanted to play me. That’s how I knew I would like him. Those are the fun questions!
And I invited my Island girlfriends to a TGIT (uesday) Birthday Party next week ~ because it’s my birthday and I get to give THEM presents, which they deserve for having such a terrible MIA girlfriend like me for so long. I promise to be better (as soon as I get home!). 🙂 Oh well.
And look, somedays I even find this on Amazon. Not always, but sometimes, and it definitely cheers me up! And this is because of you too, don’t think I don’t know it. We are all word of mouth Girlfriends, this I know. And I love that we are selling the book for less than they are! And ours our signed. Ha! And we have them, but they don’t! Oh the power. Proud mommy. And then, yesterday… this happened:
Oh yeah . . . the books came to the Island. And today, the books arrive in California and the mailing BEGINS!!!
And this is the first thing you will see when you open your book . . .
Here they are on my table . . . I’m signing them for my brothers and sisters and best friends, and Tuesday Girls, and Diana, and Publisher’s Weekly and Little, Brown and everyone I have known for the last half century.
My kitchen is now complete. It’s a strange feeling to see the book actually here. But a good one. And the other thing I’m doing is signing SIX of them for giveaways to YOU, right NOW. So this is your moment to leave a comment. ♥ If you already bought a signed book from us, that’s okay, this one will be personalized to you, with your own name, and you can give the other one to your best friend. It’s a win-win!
And Joe had a good idea . . . he said that I should save my worn-out paintbrushes, the ones I used to paint Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams with and give them away with these books, along with one of my paint-blotters-turned-bookmark. So each book in this Giveaway will have a paintbrush and a signed bookmark . . . So sign yourself up for the drawing by leaving a comment below . . . I already warned Vanna about the extra workload of drawing SIX names this time, poor girl. She’ll need a vacation in Cannes after this one! Love you Girls, Happy Spring! Still working on fabric and Willard! . . . talk soon!
You sound so happy! It’s infectious; made me happy, too, just reading about everything! You have lots and LOTS to look forward to…and, at the conclusion of the tour, HOME with fewer obligations.
I love how you boiled it down to the love of home in so few but perfect words of being in the kitchen and digging in the garden. We’ve been planting veggies and flowers and herbs all weekend here in SoCalif and it’s so immensely satisfying! It’s a feeling of contentment and a sort of mystifying ‘security’ – reminding me of my ancestors gardening for their survival, and then all the preserving and canning to follow, getting that feel-good feeling of ‘setting aside’ (‘putting up’), in the root cellar and pantry, plenty to eat and a taste of summer for the family all winter long. (I, of course, realize there are plenty of people who do all of this in today’s world, too, which I think is fantastic! My elderly auntie, long passed, would wax nostalgic over growing up in farm country, spending long hours harvesting, cooking, sterilizing the canning jars, etc., learning from her mother – and she was still doing it in the 70s and 80s even though she no longer lived in the country and was instead living the life of a city gal, because she loved the process of being self-sustaining and creative and useful and productive, and I’m sure it brought back a lot of good memories.)
Picking a warm tomato off a vine in summer – and eating it on the spot in my yard, making a mess – is one of my most soul-satisfying things. Possibly the only other thing I’d need in that moment is an ocean view!
I am doing my darndest (I don’t think that’s a word) to see you at one of the California signing/speaking locations…my name tag is printed(!) and I’ve almost got my husband onboard to turn it into a little weekend overnight trip…and, beforehand, your delightful island book will be a welcome sight in my mailbox, sounds like sooner than later; yippee!
Smart you, to get that entertainment lawyer. Your books will translate well to either the small screen or the big screen, a fun and poignant, interesting and empowering story to be told. I’ll feel like I had insider tips or something, since you’ve taken us along for each step of the journey in your books!
Can’t wait…for any of this!!!! Susan, you’ve come a long way from that little girl in the Valley…it’s really something to see a person in my age group and from a somewhat-similar background having accomplished so, SO much, from there to the here and now. Sending you applause and congrats, thanks and best wishes as always!
Holy Toledo; I am posting a P.S. after you have over 2100 comments. Very excited here; I JUST got an email from your store that my ISLE OF DREAMS book has been shipped. Even though it was 93 degrees [f] at 1130am here in SoCalif, dry and windy and HOT, rain is coming, please-oh-God (we ALWAYS need rain), and it couldn’t be a more perfect time to curl up indoors with your book this weekend!
SO happy to hear it Vicki!
So this is how it went down. Your book arrived the next day (Thurs) and I picked it up at the post office on my way to the ‘eye doctor’ in the afternoon – where I had to have my eyes dilated, which means I then can’t see for the next 6 hrs (I’m highly sensitive to it). Can you imagine my frustration. Your book is here. I’ve been waiting for it. And I can’t read it. All I can do is look at it, sitting there on my table.
Fast-forward to 10pm; decision to make. Go on to bed like a sensible girl…or crack open Susan’s book (now that I can ‘see’ to read). I wave my husband on his way, “right behind ya, honey” – he falls asleep waiting for me. I only meant to thumb thru a few pages and digest the inside front cover but, while thumbing, my fingers got stuck on page 97 (Cliff and Pooh and you) and I promptly burst into tears. There was no way I could put this book down NOW.
My patient but concerned/perplexed husband comes out at 2am, 5am and, at 6:30 when he got up to let the dog out, he said, “What exactly IS that book that you’d sacrifice your sleep for it? Help me understand this lunacy.” I said, “Tell you later.”
The birds were chirping; dawn was breaking. My eyes were stinging (I had just balled like crazy again at around page 358 to 362). But I don’t know when I’ve had a more satisfying ‘read’ (except maybe The FT Girl).
It’s good, Susan. It’s really, really, REALLY good; what do they call it, a ‘tour de force’. You have outdone yourself.
Among so much I’d like to comment on from the book (I share some similar circumstances)…would have to do a spoiler alert…I have to say, Susan: I truly believe if the Cliff/Vermont scenario had not occurred, you might never have been able to give your whole heart to Joe.
Thank you for gifting the world with such a wonderful trilogy of keepsakes; three incredible books of an amazing life. (I also read Cliff’s book six months ago and I really liked it; good baby-boomer ‘read’ – I’ve tried to be objective! You’re fascinating people! How could I not want to read about BOTH of you?!)
I’m going to wait a couple of weeks and then read Isle of Dreams all over again so that I can totally absorb it. There’s so much to inhale between the photos, illustrations, quotes, recipes, text (your words; the story). You have had amazing adventures with more to come!
Not fair having to go to the eye doctor in the middle of book-picking-up!!! Thank you so much Vicki . . . that was a wonderful read! You are making my day! XOXOXO
Can’t wait to see you in Cedar Rapids, Susan!
As much fun as adventures can be, I love your thoughts on coming home…ahhh yes, those domestic goddess chores make home a merry place, indeed! Have fun on your travels…we’ll all enjoy tagging along with you!
Hello Susan,
I’m house cleaning too. Made a new cover for my window seat cushion whilst thinking of the fabric you have in store for us. So very much anticipating the arrival of Isle of Dreams, and fabric, and your blogs from your upcoming trips and book signings, and fabric. And did I mention, fabric! Takes my mind off the cold and snow that has hit us again here in Upstate NY. Poor daffodils are suffering, almost in bloom because we had temperatures in the 60’s for Easter and now they’re all bent over and covered in snow. Happy travels, I will be following your adventures. Enjoy the many fun things to come which are so well deserved from all your writings, paintings and keeping all of your girlfriends so happy and entertained. Bless you and thank you.
I am getting very excited about receiving my copy of “Martha’s Vineyard – Isle of Dreams.” Wishing you and Joe an enriching trip across the country.
Hi Susan! So sorry you weren’t able to work Washington into your book tour. I would have driven anywhere in the State to see you!! Everything is lovely and blooming here, and we’re having our yearly Tulip Festival in the Skagit Valley for the entire month of April. It looks as if someone painted field after field with large swatches of bright colors. You would love it! Enjoy your travels and soak up all of the well-deserved love and smiles and chats with the Girlfriends! And happy (early) birthday! You and my husband are one day apart!
I am so looking forward to reading Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams for so many reasons. The Vineyard is my favorite place and I fell in love with it when I visited. Home is the beaches in Southern California but there was simply no contest once I visited the magical island. I hope the book tour is a smashing success!
I’m looking forward to reading the newest book and so excited about the movie news! Who would be the perfect Susan?! Also hoping to see you in Denver!
Excited about your new book! I have a grouping of used paint brushes in a small jar- they are just you cool with a used artist’s pallet. So what a great idea Joe had – he’s a keeper (just like mine)!
I know you’ll have a wonderful road trip.
Can’t wait to read “the rest of the story” with the fairytale ending on Martha’s Vineyard. Then we have your blogs from the next trip to England to look forward to. We can travel vicariously with you and Joe! Wish your book tour included Southeast Tennessee, but realize you can’t cover every part of the country. Safe travels! ❣
I can’t wait to see this book….I am so sitting on pins and needles for it to arrive……along with 50,000 other ladies out there. I hope you have a wonderful birthday- and please enter me in the drawing. Happy Happy Birthday!!! thank you for giving me something to be excited about. Love your stuff!!!!
The competition is fierce but if I don’t comment, there will be no possibility of winning, will there? I devoured the first two books and am anxiously looking forward to completeing the trilogy.
Thanks for so openly sharing your life and your art!
Trying to wait patiently for my copy of the newbie book to arrive in the mail…must admit that seeing the endpapers in this post almost felt like looking at its sonagram!!! Can. hardly. wait…….
To cook, garden, and keep house – to make it all cozy and charming – that is the life! 🙂
That is. Really, what else matters?
Can’t wait to read this book! Looking forward to seeing you in Pasadena.
It was wonderful to see your very Spring posting as we just received almost
6 inches of snow overnight here in Toronto, Ontario. Who am I kidding? Sun, snow, hail or rain, it’s always wonderful to see one of your new post! Your new book looks beautiful. I would like to attend one of your book signings, but too far away, hopefully one day your tour will take you north of the border and into Ontario. We’d love to have you & Joe visit!
Books and paintbrushes and bookmarks! Oh my!! Would love to win any of these prizes. Can’t wait to read your new book and your blogs about your book tour.
It is difficult to express the contribution that your posts, books, and travels have made in my life. So,I’ll just say, Thank you — and Joe. 🙂
xoxoxoxoxox
Susan. I love every day you post! Your writings and drawings always leave me feeling happy!
can’t wait to read your new book. wish i could see you at a book signing in Washington, maybe next time 🙂 thanks for writing your books !
Can’t wait to meet you when you come to St. Charles, MO! Love reading whatever you write! And love looking at whatever you paint!! Happy Travels!
Hi Susan,
Can’t wait for the new book–although I almost wish it might never end kind of like Downton Abbey!!! Thank you for everything!
Deborah
I am so excited about your books being made into a movie or series. Throwing in my two cents, I think it should be a series.
When I get my tax refund, I plan on splurging on your books: A Fine Romance, The Fairy Tale Girl and Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams.
Wishing you a wonderful book tour, Susan.
There is a fashion show in The Fairy Tale Girl that I would LOVE to see again!
Love your blog, your books and this give away! Can’t wait to meet and to read the new book! Happy Birthday and safe travels!
Susan I love all your books and intend to get your new one and have you sign it in Pasadena California.My 2 girlgirlfriends drove with me to Santa Barbara to see you at the Hampstead House and we were the very first in line.
Hello, Susan,
I am so excited that you are coming to Wilmette again. I bought a ticket the last time you came, but then couldn’t come. But, I am coming for this one unless my shop is open which is on the weekends. I’m so happy for all your success after all the years for creative work and you are a great example of turning events in life that aren’t so happy into a rich and love-filled life. Happy days, Susan!
Ginene
Susan,
Even tho I’m so new (comparatively) to your blog, it’s become my favorite Monday ritual, and today’s post didn’t disappoint 🙂 I’m so grateful that you take the time to write here, every week, and uplift us all. It makes me feel like I’m there, lol. When I saw today’s pics, I said, (outloud), “Oh my goodness… where has all the snow gone??” The spring pics are so beautiful! Regardless, I’m hoping to see you in Prescott, provided I can get away from work! Take good care.. with much love 🙂
Tell work you plan to be very ill that day! xoxo
Shhh…. (That’s the plan.. 🙂 )
Go forth Sue and spread your sunshine!!! You and Joe have a safe and happy trip-and much fun with the girlfriends. xoxo from Peggy and girl dog Sparky in Madison Wi.
Girl Dog Sparky! You guys make me laugh so much, I will never get through all of these . . .
Receiving notification of a new SB post in my email is like cutting into my favorite cake; the anticipation always pays off! I savor every morsel. Enjoy your travels!
This is so exciting…can’t wait to get Isle of Dreams. The anticipation is soooo worth the wait. Safe travels to you and Joe…See you in June in Monticeto.
P.S. My hometown is St. Louis. I so wish I was going to be in St. Charles, MO. Every year we go back home to visit all of our family. And it is a tradition that my bestest high school girlfriends meet in old town St. Charles. Best place ever. You are going to love it there.
Happy Trails!
Debbie R
Everyone says such nice things about it!
With everything you’ve written, I know I’m ridiculous talking about starch but I didn’t know that the “old fashion” one is still available. I’m on the hunt now and sure it’s been right under my nose somewhere close. I also collect vintage linen and lace and love the way they come starched and want to keep them that way after a gentle laundering. Anyway, the spray can starch can’t do these linens justice. Wow, an entertainment lawyer! All the best to you. And of course, sending you birthday blessings in abundance. You’re a joy and a treasure and I know God embraces (a big hug) you knowing how much goodness you light up the world with everyday.
Spray starch vs the real thing: night and day. As a linen collector you are in for a real treat. Ironing them is like a caress. I found the starch at our supermarket. Thank you dear Carmel!
I’m glad to know about the starch. I HATE using spray starch as it makes the floor slippery and I don’t want the dogs or us breathing the spray in the air or dogs licking paws that have walked in what lands on the floor… 🙂
Hi Susan, I enjoyed the Springiness of your post! So happy to see that someone else cleans the house before a trip!! I understand…being a homebody too, it’s such a cozy feeling to walk in after being away to see things waiting patiently clean and shiny!
Congratulations on finishing your book, what an accomplishment! Three friends and I will be seeing you in Plainville for lunch and book signing…yahoo, we are sooo excited…the absolute highlight of our spring!!! 👯👯
I am thinking you may be ready for another special salad recipe when we see you – the Kale salad recipe I gave you in Newburyport may need a break by now!
See you soon! ❤️ Martha
I am so HEALTHY! 🙂
Yay!!! Well, I have another deeeelicious salad recipe for you!! …will bring it to Plainville 📚🍴😊
When I win this newest drawing, the book title goes into my will. Granddaughter will be thrilled by your lovely painted thoughts – Daughters and daughters-in-law are all already fans. Have a wonderful tour. Happy Birthday,too.
Nothing nicer to se than a big stack of spanking fresh books!
Can’t wait to dive into MVIOD! And speaking od diving, put me in that big old pile of names for Vanna to dive into, A bookmark and a used paintbrush – who knew how exciting that offer could be?
Looking forward to meeting you in New Hope –
Wishing you safe travels. How hard it must be to miss spring at home. I love your travel stories and weather updates. I would love a paintbrush plus book, so I hope Vanna picks me!
Happy Birthday Susan! Safe travels. Hope to see you in Austin!
I can hardly wait til Isle of Dreams arrives in my mailbox! I so loved the other two books I know this one is going to be super also! And the thought of the books being made into a movie …. soooo exciting! Will there be a book coming from your trip to Scotland? Sure hope so!
Barbara
I’m keeping a diary, so we will see!
Hope so! I’d love to see Scotland through your eyes!
OOPS !! Have to remember the biggest Happy Birthday ever!
If you were next door I’d be making you a polenta cake. xoxo Peggy
I’m going to make that myself! But thank you so much, because it really is the thought that counts!
Nothing more exciting than a big stack of spanking fresh books!
Can’t wait to dive into MVIOD. And speaking of diving in, just had to enter my name in that big pile of names for Vanna to dive into. A bookmasrk and a used paint brush – who knew how exciting an offer that would be?
Looking forward to seeing you in New Hope.
Happy, Happy Birthday, Susan! Each of your posts seems like a birthday present to me. I so hope you enjoy this time to catch up on others things you love.
Just read The FairyTail Girl this winter and patiently waiting for Isle of Dreams. Spring is late, just received 6 inches of snow yesterday and more on the way late Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday. Brrr how we want spring!
Met you at quilt market in Houston several years ago. Bought your lovely fabric and your Books!!!
Oh, I always have such mixed feelings when you are getting ready to hit the road or the water. Exciting times ahead for you two. I’m so happy you have finished what you set out to do and now … Smiles, hugs, new adventures. Doesn’t appear you are coming to Florida but will check in often to your blog.
Happy trails to you💕❣😎 judi
Oh my goodness this is the first chance I’ve had all day to read your post. { I like to not be rushed and savor each word + photo} I’m so disappointed you won’t be coming to Charlottesville or even close by 🙁 But I’m looking forward to the new book! Can hardly wait in fact. I wish you safe and lovely travels on your book tour.
~ Lyn
You must come to Kentucky for a book signing. Love everything about you! Good luck on your trip!
Met you in Houston several years ago, bought your lovely fabric and your books…enjoy reading your books and recipes!!!!
so many things….
I can’t wait for the new book and my good friend and I are going to see you in Denver, CO. We are making a weekend out of it and already have our name tags printed ! WoooHooo!
Happy Birthday and hope you so enjoy your special birthday year!!!! I’m not sure why we celebrate just one day!
I wish you would have a book signing near me, my mom and I would come for sure!!😍😍😍😍
You always amaze me!! Just when I think – “She must be so tired and run down that she couldn’t possibly do ONE more thing!” You always prove me wrong. And I am thankful for that, believe me. It is exciting to think of the books becoming a movie whether on the screen or TV. Then I tried to think of who would play you in this adventure. I haven’t any idea because THERE IS ONLY ONE YOU!! I have watched the weather and realize you are getting some of it. Sometimes it is difficult to remember when it was warm, sunny and “springy.” And now you are getting ready for the big trip – just one question: How do you do it????? Makes me tired just thinking about it. But I know it does you a world of good to see all of the happy faces that are so anxious to see your shining face – and Joe’s of course. I remember when you were in Cayucos and I saw you – then I immediately went over to Joe and gave him a hug and a “howdy-doo.” Love you both very much…….HAVE FUN!!
Your lace curtains are just lovely. Sad that west MI isn’t one of your stops. May you have a wonderful birthday!
omg omg omg
So excited for your news! I have furiously graded essays so I can settle in for a read when my book arrives!
Ok… so… my tears welled up when I was reading your blog because I was so proud for you! To live your dream, to make your life come true, is a remarkable gift! It is inspiring and encouraging as well as beautiful! You aren’t just the Fairy Tale Girl; you are the Fairy Godmother to all girlfriends every where!
What a terrific time it will be to see you in Asheville! Counting the days!!!
Susan, I discovered you and your books long ago and I think I still have a paper copy of a Willard (will have to look for it…) and some “stickers”. I’m a quilter and am looking forward to your new fabric line as well as the new book. Have fun on your trip and stay in touch!
Thank you for keeping alive the ideals of home and family, especially so artfully!
For years I’ve enjoyed your books, stickers, fabrics and now, your blog. Now you can go and enjoy the adulations of your fans across the country. Have a wonderful trip!
What a great idea to include paintbrush and unique bookmarks.
Love your linens. Nothing better than crisp white. May your trip be blessed and enchanting!
In your post you have a quote from Sandburg saying nothing happens unless first you dream. So why not a movie or a TV series? Why not? Dream on! We all would watch it like we watched Downton! Fervently! And thanks for the dust removal suggestion – my house is in dire straits.
Donna MacDonald, says… April4,2016
Hi Susan,
No one, a blog…like you do. The pictures, the detail and your stories…makes one feel…
you are a girlfriend! Thanks for taking the time to send a blog, before you & Joe, head off
on your cross country tour.
Anxiously, awaiting for your new book, to arrive, in the mail!
Best to you & Joe. A fan forever, Donna
Hi Susan,
I’m counting the days until your book signing/afternoon tea in New Hope, Pa.
The cover of the new book is so colorful and springy, I can’t wait to curl up with my copy and a cup of tea in my EmmaB mug. Have a Happy Birthday and don’t work too hard with the cleaning.
xoxo
Kathleen
Hi Susan…I’m counting down the minutes til June and your book signing in Pasadena!! It’s so nice knowing there is such a lovely person as yourself in this world! Happy travels!! Angie♡
Hi Susan!! I’m looking forward to reading the new book!! Wish I lived closer – I would volunteer to come over and play with your sweet kitties while you are away!! Thank you for the giveaway, and have a safe trip!!
My daughter and I are looking forward to receiving and reading your new book. Keep them coming….
Happy Spring Susan…love this time of year..so full of hope. I cannot wait to get my copy of the book…so excited. Happy & safe traveling to you & Joe. Hope to see you again in Hudson, Ohio.
Hi, just love you blog. My dearest friend moved to MV about 12 years ago. We visit her at least once a year. Whenever I read your blog she seems to be a part of everything you say as she has also embraced MV with her whole heart. What is there not to love. I am sure she will buy her copy right on the island because lets face it, this just makes perfect sense!
Can’t wait to read this newest book. Only visited the Vineyard once so anxious to see it through your eyes. Thank you, Girlfriend. Have a great trip to CA. Be safe
Susan, cant wait to read your new book ! and I love keeping house and doing up curtains, etc, also.
Happy birthday! Happy spring! Happy tour!
You are amazing and darling.
You have inspired me to get going with spring cleaning myself. Enjoy your trip across our beautiful country.
So looking forward to the new book! They are a delight to read and so pretty to look at; congrats on the reissuing of the Heart of the Home book, too.
I’m eagerly awaiting your latest tale and reading about the beginning of your happy ending. The first 2 books have my mouth watering and my sweet tooth wanting more of the same.
I know just what you mean about feeling compelled to clean house before a trip. My husband is usually trying to drag me out the front door while I’m wiping down one last surface or fluffing a pillow. We left our NC mountain home on Friday and are vacationing right now in the SC lowcountry, enjoying balmy, sunny weather, ocean breezes and masses of azalea and wisteria blooms. Still, it was so hard to leave home with my tulips just about to open and the forget-me-nots beginning to show sky-blue snippets of color. I can’t imagine leaving home for an extended tour like you’re about to do and leaving our 2 kitties waiting for us so long. I am SO happy that you are taking the book tour, though, and that I’ll get to meet you in Asheville. Thank you so much for following up on my suggestion to come to Asheville and to Malaprop’s Bookstore. I can’t wait to come with my group of old girlfriends and meet up with you and all my new Susan girlfriends. I will make sure we have on our name tags! Wishing you both a safe and successful tour and a fun time together.
I am so excited for your newest book. I have enjoyed all your books and think of your cookbooks as story books to read too! I am going to England this fall with my dear friends and I am giving them your book “A Fine Romance”. It made me eager to visit England as it will my friends. I am sooo disappointed I was not able to buy tickets for the New Hope Pennsylvania book signing. Maybe I’ll stand outside and say hi!
How exciting to see that tall stack of books—congratulations! I can’t wait to read it.
Susan, you find the best quotes! I really relate to the one referencing Adam. My home may be a small bungalow but to me it is Paradise with a sweet husband, a garden and a kitty. Such sweet bliss! Oh, and that’s a wonderful idea Joe had, to give away the paintbrushes!
Susan,
Absolutely love your books. I have had all of them for years and just love to look at them! I am eagerly waiting for your newest. I think I read the last one in two days! Thank you so much for letting us all in on your world.
You are so sweet and so much fun. I just love coming here to read what you have written. Looking forward to traveling with you via your blog. Wish I could meet you in person!
Loved “Fine Romance”….can’t wait for the newest! Your life is like a dream come true.
Susan, I can’t wait to meet you in New Hope in May! I’ll be there with my sister and mom. I have almost all of your books and get them out for inspiration year after year. Have a safe trip and see you soon. Amy
Happy Birthday Susan! Hope it’s a fabulous day. I’m so excited and can hardly wait to get the new book! I love the idea of a movie and your story, how fun! Wishing you many blessings in the next few months while you visit with all your fans. Hope to see you at one of those book signings.
Enjoy your road trip with Joe.
Cindy
I’ve not written for a very long time but just wanted to say how much I am looking forward to the new book and the reissue. Now if I could just get you to Minnesota for book signing that would be a dream come true! Road trip to Iowa?
i imagine, as you leave on your trip…that you will leave little sprinkles of utter happiness behind you, trailing all the way to california and places in between for all your book signings. i imagine them sparkling clear across the country and that airplane pilots could see them shining from way up high in the sky. your excitement is contagious and palpable. have so much fun. i think you already are…just the delicious anticipation of this great and grand adventure has made you decidedly giddy.
Dearest Susan,
Your words and your paintings bring such joy to my heart and peace to my soul. I so hope to meet you one day. Perhaps you’ll be in Sacramento someday. It’s only 45 minutes from my house in Loomis-a place I think you’d love! Very bucolic. Xoxo. Pam
I can’t wait to add this book to my collection of Susan Branch books! Keep ’em coming girlfriend! Safe travels.
Very exciting – can’t wait to read it! Enjoy your much-deserved getaway!
I thought I had posted this, but maybe not. I love your blog. My sister has been reading it for years and shares it with me.
Please, please, please tell me that you two will be returning to Albuquerque this trip. It was such a delight to see you at Bookworks during your last tour!
What a relief for you to have all this things finally finished!
I cannot afford this book since only income is SS so will cross my fingers and toes to win! In lieu of donating money to my local no-kill dog shelter, I am making bookmarks and laminating them and the shelter sells them and makes money for the animals. It is a way of helping that doesn’t cost me (except the laminating pouches) because I have been card making for years and have the materials at hand. I just lost my dog to brain cancer so am feeling very down right now, He was a rescue and my very best friend.
Hope you get some warmer weather…thought of you when they announced the big snowstorm yesterday. Mercy me!!!
Linda from Idaho where the weather is overcast and been in the mid seventies!
Apple, nectarine & peach tree are all in bloom, tulips, pansies, hyacinth all in looking beautiful.
PS__Happy HAPPY bIRTHDAY! aND MANY MORE
Oh, how I do wish I could make it to one of your book signings, but my granddaughters need their Grandma to watch them while their parents work. I wouldn’t have it any other way and now we get to look at the April calendar page while we have lunch and I can’t wait. Are you sure you don’t want to smuggle your kitties and take them on this road trip? They are so beautiful and I can imagine how much you will miss them. Have a wonderful trip Susan and Joe!!
Congratulations on your new book! I am sure it will be well-received and head the top of everyone’s summer reading list.
Best always, Lynda
Love, love , love all the harbingers of Spring as I type with 30 degrees and ice covering everything. Desperately needed that preview of flowers to come. So looking forward to the book and the 30th revision of Heart of the Home. I bought one as one of the first gifts for my much loved sister in law Mary Anne and so will be happy I can get one for me. All your books always make me so happy cause I Love all the brightness and wonderful drawings. Thank you, thank you , thank you!!! Love all the pictures of the kitties.
April birthdays are the best! I can’t wait to have a cup of tea in one hand and your new book in the other. Have a great road trip!
I am so excited to read your new book; I have really enjoyed the other books you have written. Thanks for keeping them coming.
What a wonderful beginning to your book………………………it was meant to be a temporary thing, just three months. It’s amazing how our lives take all different twists and turns. I often think to myself, if I had never done that, this would never have happened. My life took a four thousand mile turn from Old England to New England and I too fell in love! I think it’s what makes the world go round. Can’t wait to read your newest book!
Anxiously awaiting the arrival of my new book. I know I am going to enjoy it sooooo much! Have a Happy Birthday and a happy spring!
Dear Susan:
I know you are looking forward to the book signings, and so are we! I’m hoping to see you in CT on May 1st! Just wondering… their ticket price includes the “Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams” book, but wanted to ask you if I could bring a few other of your books that I already own for you to sign. Is that OK?
It does feel good to get that spring cleaning done, doesn’t it? I’ve done a lot of that myself in the last few weeks. Cleaned out papers, closets, bought new dishes and packed up and gave my old set to my mom’s caregiver, who was so happy to get them. I rearranged cabinets and bought a new comforter for the bed. It will be nice for you to get back home and just be able to relax…
Your old lace curtains are so lovely. I’m amazed that you have had them that long! Yes, a good starching goes a long way. I always starch my white things too. Makes such a difference.
Have a most wonderful birthday Susan! And the outside of you looks beautiful too!
We can tell how excited you are! The book looks beautiful. I still have to read Fairy Tale Girl, maybe that will be my summer book!
Best of luck, Susan.
After a very full moon sort of day, I would love to snuggle with your book. Thank you for all you do to bring light and joy to my days.
Be safe and have a ball! Sending you a girlfriend hug!
👭 👭 👭 👭 👭
So looking forward to your newest book! You are so talented and so generous with your amusing and often touching blogs and letters. They really cheer me up!
I am happy you were able to turn your lemons into lemonade and are sharing your story. We can all make our own happiness if we look to the sunny side of the street, work hard and appreciate all the little things in life.
Love the kitties!
Have a fun book tour,
Sharon
Have a wonderful road trip! Take time to stop along the way to gather bouquets of fresh wildflowers. Spring is a lovely time to be on such an adventure.
I can only hope and pray, and cross my fingers, to be one of the lucky “winners.” That would be exciting!
The other day I put a fresh white tablecloth on our little kitchen table, and set it with springtime in mind. We are enjoying lovely weather, but this weekend there is talk of possible rain and snow in the mountains here. Too early to set out the johnny jump ups and ladyslippers. Lilacs are blooming locally and so are the daffodils.
Thank you for remembering all of us on Mondays…………as we all are missing your creative account of Life in Downton Abbey!
Happy Birthday! Sending blessings and joy your way. Thanks for sending happiness into the world with your heart and hands.
I always look forward to your blog, so much fun to read!