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!
Can’t believe your book is here! Also can’t wait to meet you in New Hope , Pa. next month! Just read that this even is SOLD OUT!! My girlfriend and I are making it a mini vacation. Also hoping to be one of the lucky winners!! Please oh please pick me, what a treasured gift this will be. See you soon Susan <3
Yes, it’s sold out! It’s going to be FUN!
Hi Susan,
I just returned from a sisters-only trip with my best friend/younger sister. We drove from San Luis Obispo to Seattle to see my 94 yr old great aunt and then north to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Somehow, when we were cruising Elliott Bay in the Puget Sound you were on my mind, thinking this is something Susan Branch would do! Anyway, happy early birthday and congratulations on your new book
What a lovely trip . . . did you take the Redwood Highway? I remember that from way back, how magical it was in that quiet forest. Thank you Dian!
So very excited about the new book!! Cannot wait for it to arrive!! Picturing myself on my porch swing with a cup of tea and this lovely book in the warm spring air. Heaven 💕💕💕
Just wistful thinking this might be your last one. Maybe just maybe we can expect one from Scotland. Dreaming …….
Ps. See you in Ohio for your May signing!
Maybe . . . xoxo See you there Brenda . . .
Am eager to read your new book and would love to win a copy. I received “A Fine Romance” for Christmas .and have read it three times.already.
SO nice to hear . . . that was such a fun book to write and travel for . . . xoxoxo
Hi again Sue, If you want to see some of your shrubs bloom you can take some branches to force. I force Nanking cherry and forsythia. It is so easy. Just keep the small cuttings in water and in a week they should be blooming in your hotel room. Magic!! xoxoPeggy and Sparky
Wow you had to read a book here. BTW I use those same brushes in size 000 to
1. Great minds think alike!
Yes, I should get myself out there and bring in some magnolia and cherries, oh yes, thank you for reminding me!
It just keeps getting better and better! I cannot wait for this book to come. Many sleepless nights have been spent with your books and blog. Come what may, there is always something wonderful to look forward to from you. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful self and your amazing talent with all of us.
Thank you for being here Shelly, with your kind words. xoxoxo
Dear Susan,
Such an exciting life you lead….that’s for sharing it with us!!!
Happy Birthday, and Happy Upcoming Adventures. Cheers!!!
My pleasure, thank you back Gloria!!
Can’t wait to read the new book. Hope to see you in Woodstock Ga. Have it penciled in on my favorite of all blotter calendar…Susan Branch of course. 💕🙆🏼
Thank you Laural! Hope to see you there!
We have workmen in just about every room in the house, there is plaster dust on everything, we are living out of boxes and tote bags, our sweet Jack Russell is a wreck and — oh! — it’s supposed to snow here in Virginia on Saturday. But I’ve just read your cheery, springtime note, and, suddenly, I feel just fine. Thanks for reminding me to look outside!
Jack Russells, sweet as they are, are always a wreck. No, kidding, bad me. My brother has two. Whatever you are doing is going to be wonderful s o m e d a y . . . Hold on!
I so love reading about the world you live in…it’s magical.
I’m very excited your new book is on the way because….confession time….I haven’t read Fairy Tale Girl yet. It’s true. It’s been torture but I am waiting for Isle of Dreams so I can read them back to back. I just ordered an extra as a gift for my ‘pen-pal girlfriend’, Christine, who I met through FOSB and who I adore.
I’m also really happy to hear you are working on fabric. I am learning to quilt and would dearly love something adorable and snuggly to hunker down with when I am drinking hot tea and reading.
Safe travels to you and Joe!
Go ahead and start Fairy Tale Girl, there are only moments left before you receive Isle of Dreams! Thank you Barb!
Spring, fresh scent of flowers blooming, New books being mailed and getting to meet you on May 5th.
How wonderful. Thank you Susan.
See you soon Mary!
What fun for the chance to win your book and extra treats, too! Thank you for sharing yourself with us-your devoted girlfriends…via your beautiful blog, Susan! Happy travels to you and Joe.
Congratulations – it is here at last! Hurrah! Have a great tour, Sue (I know you will), may you fly on the wings of love. <3
Vanna, pick me, pick me! ;-D
Love your books and everything Susan Branch. Thank you for sharing your life with us. Hope to see you in Cedar Rapids!
I love the pictures you show of families who gather to see you….I first bought my mother Heart of the Home when I was in high school. Now I have each of your books (including the one I gave my mom with my long rambling teenage inscription in the front–I’ll be sure to get your new one but I’ll never part with the original!) My daughter Janie is 8 and loves to help turn the pages of your calendar…..she’s still in training to own your books! Love you and love what you do…thank you!
NOTHING makes me happier than thinking of my books in the homes of moms, daughters, grandmothers. WHAT an honor!!! Hugs for you and for Janie xoxoxo
Susan, I simply love you!!! You inspire me and bring such joy to my heart. I have several of your books, just finished The Fairy Tale Girl and cannot wait for Isle of Dreams. I’ll see you in Monterey California 😉
I may not be able to stop myself from hugging your neck !!!
That’s okay, it gets like that sometimes! Am I going to Monterey? I think I’ll be in Danville and in Morro Bay . . . right?
Silly me!!!! Yes Morro Bay!!!!! I don’t know why I said Monterey 😉
Oh good, then Morro Bay!
Hello Susan-
I smile every time I see a new blog post from you! I treasure your inspiration and I LOVE ALL of your books!!! Happy Birthday!
I enjoy your blog so much – inspiring, informative and just plain fun.
Thank you. Safe travels – sorry I am not near one of your book signings.
Your excitement is contagious! I can’t wait to add the new book to my shelf with all of the others. It’s a happy shelf, about to get happier, either with a lucky pick by Vanna, or the way six lucky people will not get it!
Happy travels, safe travels, and fun travels to you and Joe.
Will mark it down and look soooo forward to seeing you in Pasadena at Vroman’s. Yea!!
I can’t wait to read Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams; if it is half as good as the other 2, it will be amazing!
Fingers are crossed big time.
So excited to be part of this contest. I would treasure a paint brush just as much as a book. Loved your post today on cleaning…amazes me how an ordinary day can sound so cheerful and entertaining when you’re writing it.
So nice Sharon, thank you!
So excited that I’ll get to see you at the event in New Hope, PA. Ordered those tickets the minute they went on sale!
Perfect!
So excited! My BFF ( another Susan) and I will get to see you in Illinois, all our books in hand. Travel safe and looking forward to meeting more of the girlfriends too!
You’ll love that part . . . nicest people you could ever hope to meet!
Susan, I should have known…I ordered A Fine Romance and FairyTale Girl a couple weeks ago,(after having borrowered them from the library and knowing that I had to own them). When they came they were wrapped in tissue paper closed with stickers and then rewrapped in lovely heart tissue paper. Just another “something extra” to make your girl friends feel special. I also preordered Isle of Dreams and can’t wait for it to come to read the rest of your story. As you mentioned in your blog, you have SIGNED copies less expensive than bookstores or Amazon. Why would anyone order them anywhere else?? Of course, I would love to win a personalized copy of Isle of Dreams and the other goodies, so count me in.
I am sending Happy Birthday wishes to you and safe travels for you and Joe as you crisscross our beautiful country. Enjoy!
I am hoping to see you in Hudson, OH in May.
Hope to see you there Bonnie! I’m so proud of Kellee and Sheri at the studio who love making things nice for people. xoxo Thank you!
You certainly deserve to feel so proud of your accomplishments and to share with us how you got here! Your books will sit with me while I take my grandson to therapy for his second knee surgery in 6 months! We are still having winter in Indiana. Lost power over the weekend so had to dump all my food in the fridge but gave me a chance to give it a thorough cleaning😊 They say we may have some snow but I know spring is just around the corner. You inspired me to start some cleaning and we are painting 2 rooms plus a bathroom. Lots of work but worth it in the end. Will be sharing my progress with my penpal, Sharon, who came to me through your blog! Makes me so happy to get snail mail. Have a wonderful trip and I will be watching my mailbox hoping to be the winner of your giveaway.
Nothing like a new coat of paint in the spring to perk everything up!!! Tell Sharon I said hello, and best wishes for good recovery for your grandson, Ruth! xoxo
Dear Susan, Happy Birthday next week. I celebrated my 76th today and reading your blog tonight and knowing I may have THAT book in the mail soon was icing on the cake. Have a wonderful celebration and safe journeys on your book signing tour.
Happy Birthday dear JoAnn, hope your book comes today!
Cannot wait to read the new book! And the frosting on the cake will be your blog posts about the book tour and the return to England! Very exciting!
We’re going to have a fun year!
OMG!!! I saw the ad for your new book in Tea Time Magazine! It’s beautiful! Hope to see you in Denver (and maybe Estes Park – check your email!)
I haven’t gotten my Tea Time yet! Thank you Nancy!
Okay, Susan, I was just not going to leave a comment because there are a jillion already and how can you read all of this stuff from us. But, even though I believe I am receiving your book from the dearest cousin in the whole world for my birthday (please, please!) I could not resist the opportunity to have Vanna draw my name! It was just TOO much. Loved this proud mama post! Made my day!
I read it all, but I had to stop commenting because I could NOT catch up. But right now, there are a mere 55 comments waiting so it’s fun and I can say hello again! xoxo Thank you Linda!
Ooh, ooh, I can’t wait to meet you in New Hope, PA!!! My mom and sister are excited to be there too!!! Just bring my book with you, it’ll save postage!!! (I believe in thinking positively. 😉
Very smart, that’s the plan!
And….HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!
Looking forward to reading your new book ❣
Have a happy birthday and a good trip. Hope to see you in Austin.
Dear Susan, I am so happy the new baby is ready. Winning one would be a blast! I have a receiving blanket already and the rocking chair is set so the sun will shine on the babe. Oh, what fun it is to dream. Do enjoy your trip and your grand visits through out the country. barbara
LOL! Cute, love the receiving blanket and the rocking chair!!!
Oh my! I’m so excited for this one. I LOVE the paintbrush idea! Joe is brilliant! And just so you know, you will never delight us long enough. 🙂
LOL, somedays I wonder!
Hi Sue, Happy “pre-Birthday”! Thank you for sharing the lovely blog and luscious artwork. Looking forward to seeing you at 2 bookshops on your tour, going with friends (wearing our nametags, ha)!
Fun!
Have been waiting to get the new book to read both books together. My son recently moved to England with his family and I gave “A Fine Romance” to his wife and her mother as gifts. Love all your books, thanks for giving us such wonderful moments in this crazy world.
Now you will have to go visit him! 🙂
Oh the never ending generous Susan Branch! Thank you for the beautiful things you do! Good luck to all your winners! Love Salve 🙂
XOXOXO Salve!
So excited to read the conclusion to The Fairy Tale Girl! I hope to be able to make it to your book signing in Pasadena. You’re such an inspiration and I would love to see you in person!
Hope you can come Christine!
Wish I could send you cherry blossoms from DC! They are lovely and I always feel like spring is here when the trees bloom. Hope yours pop before you have to leave!
I’m saying prayers that you and Joe have safe travels!
I have ALWAYS wanted to be in DC at cherry blossom time. You are so lucky Christy!
I can’t wait for my book to arrive in the mail and I’m very happy your coming to Calif. for your book signing. I’m very anxious also to see your fabric line I’m sure it’s amazing.
You really do live a charmed life!! Kiss the kitties for me.
Can’t wait to see your new book!
Happy Wednesday!
I would love to win a personalized signed copy ! Happy Spring ! & Happy Birthday!
I am so excited! I can’t wait to get your book I ordered. Oh, wouldn’t a movie be great!
Love your art, your writing, your recipes, just love it all. You make me smile, it’s good for the soul. Thanks so much for sharing your life with so many people. You have touched many hearts.
Thank you Mariann, I feel very lucky and grateful. xoxo
Dear Susan,
I have every book you wrote. I love all my cookbooks and you have signed several of them. I ordered your new book and can’t wait to receive it. I have a 90 yr. old friend (Terry) who would love a signed copy of your new book. I brought her with me when we went to the Westfield library in 2014, that was a fun book signing.
Have a fun trip.
Thank you Carol, and tell Terry I said Hello, too please! xoxo
Dear Susan, You inspire me to starch something(which I’ve never done in 67 years of life)! I sent my sister in CT. “A Fine Romance” and she reads a chapter a night just as I did(and loves it as did I). I’m hoping to meet you here in Cincy OR in Nashville where my daughter lives. The date you’re here is Derby Day & I may be in Louisville~a tradition with a girl friend there. I wish you a Happy Birthday and a wonderful book tour! Your friend, Julia
We are usually in front of the TV on Derby Day with our silver cups full of Kentucky Bourbon mint juleps! I think you’ll like what you get with the starch if you try it . . . thank you Julia!
Oh please, oh please, oh please, I want to win this! And I love Joe’s idea about the lagniappe!!! He must have a bit of New Orleans somewhere in his blood.
Waiting eagerly for the new book to make it to my mailbox. Love every little thing about your artistic, fabulous, delicious books!!! ☀️ They always add sunshine to the dreariest of days! Congrats on a job well done❣ Love ~Linda
Thank you Linda, I hope you like it!
So excited to get your book and your FABRIC announcement.
Safe Travels !!
can’t wait to get my paws on the new book! we’ll see you in Texas. :oD Just wondering, as I was reading this…how do you wash and dry your quilts?? my favorite part of making them is putting them in the dryer at the end so they get all soft and rumply… but I’m wondering if I should skip the dryer? most are just pieced, no applique. what do you think?
Newer quilts can handle this fine, the old ones have a tendency to fall apart. I like them soft and rumply too, so what you are doing is exactly what I would do. xoxo
Hi Susan!! We are so excited you are coming back to the Learned Owl in Hudson! My girlfriend Linda and I are taking the day off work just so we can get there early and savor the anticipation!!! It was fun to see you posted the picture of our group of girlfriends on your blog!! We LOVED reading Fairy Tale Girl – several of us read it in 2 days – we just couldn’t stop!!!
Safe travels to you and Joe!
Kathy Nagel
ps. I have stocked up on “Days” journals to last me until I’m 92! (That’s my Dad’s age and I’m counting on lasting at least that long – Lord willing! )
Oh Kathy, so nice to hear from you. You have to take a new picture with all your Days books for me one of these days . . . I still have and love the one you did years ago! My dad (better known as Blogdaddy) is 92 also! Can’t wait to see your smiling faces again ~ won’t be long now!
Sooo excited to read your new book! Hope you and your Husband have a wonderful time on the upcoming book tour!
Happy Spring! 🙂
Oh, I LOVE your books!!! Thank you for the chance to win.
Last time I said I was holding off reading the last couple of chapters of the Fairytale book because I didn’t want it to end, and I also didn’t want to be pining too long for the next one. So when I saw the new one was ready, I went ahead tonight and finished it. Once again in some ways our lives have been so different, but in others, so similar. I never got to meet the Beatles, but living in NYC, I did meet many of the other British groups. The Stones, Animals, Herman’s Hermits, Kinks, etc. We used to find out what hotel they were staying at, and would wait outside until they came out, or would sneak onto their floor through the garage so we could talk to them when they left their room. Guilty to say we sometimes cut school for this, which my parents weren’t very happy about when they found out.
I hope you have a very Happy Birthday, and enjoy you time with friends. I’m amazed by your energy and perseverance. Glad you’re back to being able to “play house”. I know you love the writing and painting, but it must be a burden sometimes to be under a deadline to get that done when you see other things need doing.
Good luck on your travels, and I hope to be able to come up to Denver when you’re there.
It is a little bit, because my heart is in the home!!! But writing and painting does come to an end (for a while), and then I turn my eyes to the garden or to the stove, plan a birthday party, think about cake and flowers, and it’s even better than before. Hope to see you in Denver Peggy! xoxo
What a wonderful treat it will be to finally read “Martha’s Vineyard: Isle of Dreams” after anticipating it as you were writing-and sharing it with us- for the past year!
Now’s the time I get to be a little wistful that it’s over! Isn’t that funny?
Safe travels Sue. I wish I could get to see you but I am looking forward to reading and living about your Martha’s Vineyard life. Please post l list of where you will be in Southern California.
It’s posted in the right-hand column of the blog under EVENTS…just click there, and you can see where Joe and I will be! Hope to see you along the way!
I say YAY for starch!!! And for our new books! We cannot wait!!! And for your blog! HUGS to you and Vanna!!! Let our wishing begin . . .
As always I you have inspired me with your art and domesticity Susan, and I am very excited about the new book. Unfortunately, I won’t be at any of the signings as Australia is very, very far away. I am also eager to follow your travels this year. How exciting! As an aspiring writer and artist, your life is my future dream life and I would love to read about how it all started. P.S. I LOVED your Downton recaps. We are still waiting for the final episode to be shown here. Agony!
Yes, it’s a little bit far to come! And everyone here understands your agony . . . and your ecstasy! Thanks for stopping by, say hello to everyone down there for us!
Where I live spring is just around the corner, but hasn’t arrived yet. Thanks for a fun draw while we wait 🙂
I think we might be getting spring today! I say that while looking at 30 degrees here at sunrise, but SUN is the operative word, and it’s supposed to be over 50*! Walking to the beach this morning!
Hi Susan.
Looking forward to the new book! Have been a fan since the Summer Book and have all your books. Look forward to the day you come to Canada to do a book tour. Have a great day.
I was in Toronto years back and loved it! I will try again someday! I love our Canadian Girlfriends. Have you heard the joke about how some people want Canada to be our President? 🙂 I think it would be great!
Congrats on what will be another best selling book! Bast in the well desired love we all share for your success! I’m thrilled for you and Joe and wish you nothing but wonderful days ahead as you both travel the country side, someday I hope I can meet you too. I’d love to win one of your books from YOU but I’m still thrilled I ordered mine months ago and will treasure it when it arrives. Much love to you Susan!
Thank you Ginette! xoxo
So looking forward to your new books.
Loved your store on Branch Street, you are missed in California.
It was such a fun store to have! Thank you Sharon!
I cannot tell you how I look forward to your posts! I’ve been following you since 1994 when I read your Christmas book. Your writing has a way of making life light and cheery. Thank you.
Thank you back Denise!
Dear Susan,
It is so exciting how much you have to look forward to in the next few months! Coast to coast beauty, meeting all your adoring girlfriends and some fella friends too, I’ll bet!! Love all of your beautiful table coverings and especially those lace curtains. I am looking forward to Vanna gracing us with her presence :- ) She lives such an eccentric life! Thank you for keeping us apart of your beautiful world and sharing your many talents with us! Looking forward to holding your new baby!!
Also Have a Spectacular Birthday with your girlfriends! I especially love the picture of your cupcake…and the sparkling candle ring(s) you so cleverly and creatively decorated it with…You really are The Best at everything you put your heart into. Sending you Joy, Excitement, Surprises, and lots of Love for your Birthday!
xoxo Thanks Janie!
Should be soon! Thank you Janie!
I would love love, love, a chance to win Martha Vineyard, Isle of Dreams as Fairy Tale Girl left me hanging. I am on a buying fast (no books and magazines top the list, no Target – I must by my TP at the grocery store – no Kohl’s or TJ Max, no Amazon) so I have not purchased your book yet. I am not liking this fasting but I have been soul searching and de-cluttering so it is a good stretch for me except when your new book has arrived and so many other things that charm me are out there. SO hoping for a chance to win! Your spring cleaning update is so wonderful. I am spring cleaning my house and soul this year and sometimes it is good but mostly just hard. One thing I did not add to my fast list was spring flowers and seeds so that makes it bearable. And my shopping fast date ends in May so I can dream about getting your book then if I don’t win. Love you Susan …thanks for sharing so much of you with all of us. Live happy simply!
I love your big box diet! Never give up flowers. One of my girlfriends has done her gorgeous garden almost completely in cuttings she gets from her girlfriend’s gardens. It is SUCH the smart way to go, and the way our grandmothers did it. Costs nothing, plus it continues a beloved line! xoxo
Susan,
We tried this also, getting cuttings from others. I have several rose’s from Aunt Agatha’s garden when she was alive. An Apple Blossom Rose and Cecile Brunner (sp) small pink rose.
Also have allot of geraniums and plumaria in white and reddish pink. It really is allot of fun to do and the gardens has so many stories tell. Love, Susan P.
So right, then you can say wonderful things like, “I have several roses from Aunt Agatha’s garden!”
Thanks for your comment on my comment it is so special to hear from you. More than you know. I love the garden idea! You are a peach of a rose!
Thank you! I like the sound of that!
Wish I had your energy. I live in my parent’s big house and it has become impossible. But it doesn’t stop me from enjoying your books and art work!!!!! Happy Travels!
It’s much better when you own the house rather than when it owns you! xoxo Thank you Bobbie!
we’re celebrating our 53rd anniv. in June.
I discovered your books many years ago and many of your recipes have been staples for my family. I would love to receive your new books. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent with us.
Claire Haux
Happy 53rd and lucky you! xoxo
Happy Birthday, Susan Branch!! 🙂
Looking forward to meeting you in Asheville, NC! Don’t forget to visit Biltmore House while you’re there…(it’s our Highclere Castle!) …I’m sure you will LOVE it!
Could not get out of town without doing that! The last time was many years ago, the garden should be lovely by the time we get there!
Safe travels Susan & Joe. Planning on seeing you in Kansas City @ Rainy Day!
Spring has arrived here so hurry and get here !
Oh i wanted to mention Williams and Sonoma has Beatrix Potter aprons and mixing spoons etc have you seen them? Thought of you right away! Might check it out online it was all in their Spring catalog.
Well off to work now but fingers crossed Vanna picks me 😉
Yes, I have, I have BP scrapers! 🙂 See you in Kansas City!
P.S. A Very Happy Birthday to you too! 🎂🎈🎂🎉🎈🎂🎉
Hello Susan,
I am so proud of you and happy. 🙂
You are an inspiration.
Love, Carla
Thank you Carla!
~ Good Morning ~ Congrats on the new book(s)! I’m guessing you are taking a break from book writing but did you ever think of doing a coffee table book? ~ have safe travels on the book tour~ Hope to see you on the tour ~Wink wink! 😊~
What would you like the subject to be? Just giant wonderful photos of everything?
Yes, giant wonderful pictures of your house, especially your kitchen
And every picture of your stove, mantel with every seasonal
decoration, your tablescapes, china – well, just everything but
don’t forget the wing chairs I have lusted over forever. No pressure,
just dreaming. Enjoy any bit of free time you can find for yourself.
You’ve had quite a busy year and we appreciate all of your work,
Happy spring, nancy
Thank you Nancy, I think I would love putting together book of photos like that!
A Beauty Bush! They are absolute Heaven….. Memories of my mother. Always enjoy your post. Happy Travels!
They are heaven . . . ours was planted way before we bought this house in 1989. So it’s a giant pink wedding bouquet!
Livin’ the life!
Happy Birthday a little early – hope you have a fabulous day! Also hope to make it to your signing in Hudson, Ohio with my daughter. We are both huge fans and can’t wait to read the new book! Safe travels and enjoy every minute!
Mary
I’m celebrating this birthday all month! Thank you Mary! Hope you see you both in Hudson!
Waking up to 27 degrees today! Forsythia and daffodils are blooming and trying their best to make it LOOK like Spring here at the beach, but it does not feel like it. So news of your book give-away is making the day warm and cozy….thank you! And in advance, safe travels for you and Joe…..
Our temp is rising . . . was 27, now heading for 40, the slow way . . .then 50 is what we are hearing. Sounds like spring to me!!! Yay!
Hello Susan, Thanks for the spring cleaning inspiration. It feels good when everything is sparkly and clean, even if it doesn’t stay that way for long. Sigh.
I’d love to win a copy of your newest book. I have several of your books from over the years, and I often pull them out and read them again and again. Hope you have a wonderful adventure on the road.
Thank you Jane! xoxo
Susan, I’m coming to see you at Book People in Austin and bringing my dear friend, Sydna Moon, who is the sister of Ann Nelson, former owner of Bunch
of Grapes bookstore! We are so excited! Syd has told me of her
fond memories of the lunch she and Ann shared with you at your
beautiful home years ago! Can’t wait to meet you!
YOU are bringing Sydna!!! I just signed a book for her and her (twin) sister Ann, and mailed them to Ann yesterday . . . you can tell Sydna it’s almost in the mail! Thank you Sherry ~ that is just wonderful!
Cannot wait to SEE and MEET YOU in Madison , CT .
I have been buying your books for 20 years.
❤️Your newsletters are an inspiration to LIFE in more ways than you will ever know . You bring SUNSHINE into a day !
Thank YOU for making a difference. ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️💐💐💐💐💐💐
Thank you back Bette! I’ll see you in Madison!! xoxoxo 😍
Happy Birthday! Thank you for offering to personalize your book this time! We feel special! Spring is fun for cleaning and a bother for those with allergies (me). Thanks for sharing your heart.
Here’s to a nice quiet allergy-free (as best as possible) springtime, Diana!
You have inspired me to start the spring cleaning but I look out the window to “white stuff” which should be gone tomorrow 🙂 Enjoy this time getting ready for your book tour, so much fun to look forward to. I am on the edge of my seat about the movie… Fingers crossed.
I would love every part of this process except the day it premiers, that day I would be so scared, I would have to hide!
Susan, how can it be that you and Joe keep getting better & better!!!!!!
You warm the heart like a blazing fire on a cold, windy night. Thank you, for all of it, with all my heart. Connie XO
Can’t wait to get your new book. Love to read!!
Susan, feeling blessed to have found your work again after receiving the last two books for Christmas. My birthday is in a few short days as well and hoping my hints for Martha’s Vineyard landed on him successfully! If not I’ll just have to treat myself!!! I’ve savoured every page of the others and have shared them with girlfriends! As a quilter looking forward to the fabric!! And, as a wannabe watercolor artist I think that’s what makes your work so special for me and I appreciate it so very much!! Thank you! I too hope you will venture to Canada although the western part please!! Maybe a tour through BC and a cruise to Alaska??? Oooooh your girlfriends could really join you!! Hint hint 😉
Oh how lovely that we’ll be able to see your stories in “real” (aka “reel”) life! Maybe a series for Netflix, and SANDRA BULLOCK can play YOU!:-)
Good Morning Susan:
I know what you mean with Spring Cleaning. Last weekend, I went thru 3 cans of “Liquid Gold” on my furniture. That stuff is the bomb on antique furniture. It just gives it new life. I have a wood stove in my house and it sure saves money on heating bills, but it surely makes the dust! But now everything is sparkling clean and no more fires in it till next fall! But of course here in Georgia, we have not had “Blackberry Winter” yet and we will have another cold snap when the blackberries begin to bloom here in the mountains.
I already purchased your new book to add to my collection of several of your cookbooks I already have, but I would love to win another one for my daughter! I am going to try and come to the book signing in Woodstock, GA or in Asheville, NC to meet you! Now that would be the bomb to get to meet Susan Branch in person! Double WOW! Our girlfriend hero who found love and happiness after lost love! I love, love it! Can’t wait to read the conclusion!
Judy Ann Barrett from Georgia
Every time I read your blog I feel I am there with you standing in your kitchen, walking through your garden, strolling into town. Thank you–such soul-feeding hyacinths! Enjoy your tour.
Have the Happiest of Birthdays ! What a wonderful life you have created and shared. Thank You . Reading your blog always puts a smile on my face
I am eagerly awaiting Isle of Dreams. I own all your books, and just know that I will be reading your new one the day I receive it (forget the house chores!). You are an inspiration and encourage me to pursue my own art, so I thank you.
Enjoy your book tour with Joe after all your work and love that you have put into your newest creation. I am sure it will be a wonderful experience meeting many of the girlfriends once more.
Happy, happy Birthday to you! I look forward to hearing all about your next adventure in the fall!
Thank you Gail!
A very happy birthday to you….. and Gladys Taber…. two of my favorite “girlfriends” on the bookshelves of my heart….. and home!!!
I have always felt extra lucky to share a birthday with Gladys Taber!
Your books, blog and website always brighten my day! Thanks for sharing your inspirations!!
Thank you for being here Carolyn!
I’m definitely not gonna miss out on this giveaway, as I haven’t ordered my book yet! I can’t wait to read it!! Then I can reread the other two. I hope the movie deal goes through! Then I’d have something new to look forward to (I love anticipation.)
Me too!
So happy the book is done! Traveling today from Maine to Los Cabos for my son’s wedding.
His fiancé loved A Fine Romance, my Christmas gift to her. As Lady Crawley said “I believe in love”. Can’t wait to read what happens once you get off the plane in Boston. Congratulations!
I don’t think Lady Crawley is the only one who can say that!!!! Happy wedding Grace!
Hi Susan, Cannot wait for Isle of Dreams to come winging its way across the pond to my home, so looking forward to receiving my copy. The opening of your blog post really made me smile. Is it just a ‘woman thing’ when it comes to leaving the home spick and span before going away? My husband just does not get the need to return to a neat and tidy house although he likes to go away with a clean car and washes it again as soon as we get home. I’m so glad to know you and I are on the same wavelength. Hope you and Joe have a fabulous and memorable time on your book tour, enjoy!
With love from Ann in Chester
Bad enough I have to bring home a bunch of dirty laundry, but if the house isn’t clean, that’s a double whammy! Thank you Ann!
Only one more month til the tea in New Hope!
I cannot wait! So eager and excited to finally meet you in person!
You will love New Hope, BTW, it is such a wonderful “artists town” – I hope you and Joe get some time to walk around the area a bit.
Me too, we are going to try!
Love you that you care so much about others that you have never met. It makes the world a sweeter place to live in. Happy cleaning and book signing!
Rhonda
It’s a tough world, we need each other. Thank you Rhonda!
Hello Susan! Your Springtime sure is blooming on your Isle of Dreams!!!! Your new books all piled up on your kitchen table is the greatest center piece of all time!!!! Hope you take care and stay well and rested through all of your cleaning, starching, packing and exercising! Don’t worry about being a bit more fluffy, it’s a reward of aging and all those bonus birthdays we cherish and look forward to!!! I can’t wait until my mailman delivers “THE BOOK”……I’ve kept all of my outside Easter decorations up on purpose to celebrate it’s arrival!! Even the daffodils, hyacinths, and forsythia bush are breathless and waiting to shout “IT’S HERE”!!!!! Have a wonderful Wednesday Susan!
Carolyn, you are a doll. xoxo
Thank you for another giveaway opportunity. Have a safe and fun trip!
Dear Susan How wonderful your books sound and energetic too. I just discovered you through a blog i read . I discovered art and some crafts after a long illness and they changed my life and opened up a new world of friends for me. How wonderful if i could win a c opy of your book and a little art work. I live in dublin, ireland..
.
Rose O’Brien, what a wonderful name! Thank you for saying hello! I hope you are better now! xoxo
Happy birthday wishes to you, Susan!!🎂 I’m so excited to read your new book… anxiously awaiting its arrival on my doorstep. Just counting the days. Your blog is such a bright spot. I love reading all about your homekeeping and the little everyday things that I have learned are really the best things in life. It reminds me to slow down and enjoy my blessings. Now I want go starch and iron curtains, too!! So lovely. 😏 I have always loved being a homemaker and felt it was a very important art and I feel I have found a kindred spirit in you and love how your work encourages it so beautifully. The quote by Thomas Moore on the April page of your 2016 calendar has become my quote of the year. It was encouragement just when I needed it. Thanks so much from all the way over here in Washington state!
It’s such an important art. The most important, the best thing we have! “Ordinary arts” they are not. xoxo