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!
This is all so exciting! I hope I can come for a book signing. You have also made me feel like spring cleaning today – lovely weather in Alabama!
Hope to see you there Christy!
Well, God bless Joe for such a great bonus pair of goodies from you. Thanks so much for the chance to win a gift that will make another person smile. I always enjoy reading my book, then passing it on to my mom and dad who eagerly await it, just as I did when you told us they were being mailed. Weeeee!
Well, tell your parents I said a special hello!
Dear Susan,
Nothing could make me feel happier than meeting you during your trip across the U.S.A (even if I would feel SO intimidated !). I would love that, you can’t imagine how much, but I guess that it will not be possible, unfortunately. I hope that you will make lots of photos for us who live far far away, so we will be able to travel with you. Did you ever think of making a video of one of your conferences ?.
Thank you again for your kindness, your humor … and your art, of course. Each of your posts is a pleasure to read and to admire. Winning your book and one of your paintbrushes would be a true bliss. Who knows ?. Why not me ?.
You would never feel intimidated with me. I’m your mom, sister and Girlfriend! And yes, why not you?! I always say that someone had to be Cher! (I hope that makes sense!)
Dearest Sylvie, you contacted me via Facebook to become pen friends. It ended up in my spam box. I am so sorry! Please contact me if you are still interested! Congratulation on winning Susan’s book!!! Chevy49girl(at)Yahoo(dot)com
Kim
Oh, I would love to win Isle of Dreams and especially one of your paint brushes. I like to watercolor, but I’m not very good. I have a friend who goes to Martha’s Vinyard every summer and I live thru her stories of the island. It sounds so dreamy and can’t wait to read your life story there. Thank you for all you do and give. Kathy
Just wanted to say, that practice, when it comes to watercolor, is everything! No one is good when they first start!
Hey, what about your geranium, SB? 🌺 Or are you just the exception?
Well, the first time I played golf, I was EXCELLENT. Mindblowingly so. And from that moment on, I have been horrible with consistency. SO, sometimes you just get lucky! And it’s easy to see the difference in the art in my first book and in my later ones . . . Not that any of it is Arnold Palmer, but practice (at least for art) did help a lot! For golf? Forget about it!
Susan
JUST RECEIVED AN E MAIL THAT YOUR BOOK HAS SHIPPED TO ME. THAT MEANS I SHOULD HAVE IT BY FRI OR SAT AT THE LATEST. GUESS WHAT I WILL DOING THIS RAINY WEEKEND IN CALIFORNIA????? RAIN AND HOT TEA AND SCONES AND A GOOD BOOK TO READ…I’M IN HEAVEN!!!!!
THANKS, SUSAN P.
Sounds like the perfect way to greet the new baby!
Susan,
Happy, happy birthday! Love everything you do. Have a great trip cross country. Hope to see you in CA.
MaryAnn
You are extraordinary! There are over 2000 comments here!
I have been a collector of your goodness since the beginning. Even my sweet babies were celebrated with your baby keepsake books and I’m looking forward to the trilogy! You are the real deal, my dear. That is true! We all love ya (& Joe!) and wish you safe and splendid adventures on your travels! XX Val
One of my favorite things is when people bring Baby Love to the signings. Seeing those babies! Thank you Valorie!
Can’t wait to get my book! Would love to win another one to share. Happy Birthday Susan!
Oh, Susan…
I can’t WAIT!!! And you’re coming to St. Charles, MO–who woulda known! You’re already such a celebrity; can’t wait to see you! Counting the days!! ;o)
Give those kitties plenty of attention before you leave! See ya soon.
Susan, I just finished reading Fairy Tale Girl and A Fine Romance I carried with my husband and I when we took our trip to Hythe, England the year before last. It was perfect as my husband could so relate to the driving episodes when we were “exploring” the countryside. Now he knows who I am talking about when I mention your name, a good feeling which is rare since his reading style and mine are pretty opposite! The books are now sitting side by side on my bookshelf eagerly awaiting your next “baby!” Thank you for sharing your gifts with our world! Maureen
I feel a little like we are traveling together, tell your husband I said hello! (I promise to stay quiet in the back seat!)
Hi Susan!
So looking forward to meeting you at the St. Charles, Mo. book signing. Love your starched scarves, kitties and spring blossom pictures. Also can’t wait to read your new book. Happy Birthday!!! Safe travels. Thank you so much for all that you share with us girlfriends. You are a very special light to all of us.
Lovingly,
Mary Ann
You know it’s a two-way street. We are the same ilk!
Lovely to see your clean and sparkly spring cleaning! I did my kitchen dresser shelves just before Easter so I know how heart satisfying it is:) I wish you a very happy birthday and safe journeying. I am looking forwards to seeing you in the autumn in England! I shall be flying in specially and bringing my sister to Stourhead ( or maybe she will bring me, because she lives just around there!)
Really? How fun is that!? I think it’s going to be a very wonderful, out-of-body experience of a day! Oh how I adore the Internet.
Can’t wait to read “Isle of Dreams” – hope to see you in Ohio – thanks for making a dreary spring day brighter – safe travels – Mary Jo in MI
And proud you should bed! I just got home to find your Baby in my mailbox! And she’s a BIG one! I won’t be able to read this one in one sitting, but it will certainly fill my time until this cold spell passes and I can get out into my garden.
Yes, she’s quite fat and jolly. Will probably sleep through the night right away! A good baby! Happy to know she as landed! 🙂
Love to have you visit Nashville!
Getting to Memphis, but not Nashville this time, sorry!
Thanks for the Willard, always such a delight!! Can’t wait for Isle of Dreams, wish you were coming to Nova Scotia!!
Me too!!!
Oh, Susan! Every time I look at the blog, I look to see how many comments have been left, sort of like coming to visit and counting how many cars are parked in the driveway. And I imagine how many Girlfriends are already there, chatting up the latest news, cheering you and each other on. Today, I saw more than 2,000 comments, and in my mind, it was as though I was hearing this huge cheer of support ringing out and I couldn’t wait to park and come in!
I had to smile about the starched curtains! When my beloved and I first moved out of our love nest-by-the-park and into our first house (rental) the first thing my MIL did when she saw all the windows was to bring me a dozen white cotton cape-cod curtains, ruffles and all. She happily washed, ironed and STARCHED every single one, tiers, valances and tiebacks, and hung them while the rest of us painted and moved boxes. It was HEAVEN! I still have the curtains, in a big box, waiting for her granddaughters to move into homes with windows so I can pass these to the next generation, with a big bottle of starch!
As happy as I am that your books are out and doing well, I so look forward to hearing about your travels and most of all, your coming home and sharing all that is cozy and delightful in the everyday. Hurrah!
I love your cars in the driveway analogy! How fun it would be to have all 2000 of us in a big room with a great band and lots of fabulous food! Nothing like starched curtains with ruffles, so wonderfully old fashioned!
I’m looking forward to reading this book and going on another magical adventure with you. To loosely quote LM Montgomery and add my own twist, “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are people like you!” Thank you for being such a bright light that shines on all of us who gather in your glow. ❤️
xoxo Rosemary!
Dear Susan,
Happy Spring (although it doesn’t feel much like it right now.) I’m so excited to see the new book. I’ve been a fan for many years – I think I have an original copy of Heart of the Home. Thanks for all you do to enrich our lives!
Susie
Thank you back Susie!
Can’t wait to read Isle of Dreams! Wishing you a very Happy Birthday!
Wow! April is just bursting with great things. Baseball is back, Outlander is returning in a few days, Hallmark is releasing its Dreambook of Christmas ornaments next week, and the icing on the cake is that Isle of Dreams is on its way. Hurray! My sister and I look forward to seeing you in CT on May. (And there’s a great independent bookstore on Long Island you should check out for your next book tour: the Book Revue in Huntington.) Now I’m going to wash my kitchen curtains. You’ve inspired me! 😉
Spring!
Oh Susan, I am heartbroken! Your one visit to Tennessee will be the week my family will be in Florida at the beach! I am so sad! I would almost stay home, almost! I love all of your books so much and I’m so disappointed not to get to meet you in person! 🙁 Thank you for creating treasures for the rest of us!
Pam
Isn’t that just the way it happens! I’m so sorry . . . but I hope I get to come back someday! And you’ll have a wonderful time in Florida!
I went through a major downsizing and got rid of many many books (and cookbooks!) But not yours. They have a place of honor front and center on my kitchen bookshelf. I’m looking forward to your new book! Congratulations and Happy Birthday!
xoxo Thank you for keeping me! 😀 Thank you Janie!
I am so happy for you, Susan, having your book finished & preparing for your trip to the bookstores. I’m sure that feels great. My mother was very artistic & I have some of her old paint brushes…I love them! And I would love to win your book, paint brush & bookmark…what a great idea to include those! Have a very happy birthday with your friends & enjoy your trip!
Anita – the cabin on the creek
I have even bought paint brushes in antique stores — I feel like they have creative DNA that might work their magic on me.
It’s here – just arrived in the mail. Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams is in my hot little hands!!!!! I just have to pace myself and not read it too fast – I’ve got to make it last. Your team in California is the best getting the books out so fast. I hope they get a bonus when you arrive out there!
I’ll make sure they feel the love Kathy!!! Because they do a fabulous job all year long! Thank you! I’ll be interested to hear what you think when the time comes!
Kindred spirits indeed to read each one of your books and photos of your gardens! I so LOVED ‘A Fine Romance’ and am anxious to begin the next adventure with a cup of tea with my fur baby on my lap.
So excited for you! And for me too because I just got an email saying that my book has shipped!! I’m really looking forward to enjoying it. Good luck finishing things up at home and safe travels across the country.
Thank you, every day we’re a few steps closer!
Iam sooooo super excited for the new books to arrive. I pre-ordered one for me and one for my darling daughter.But oh if only vannah would pick my name so I could also gift my bestest friend, Jodi, with one as well!!!
and susan a special thank you for your precious books that really light up our lives.We re-read them over and over and the seasonal ones are put on display on our coffee table. We love you so much!
You are so sweet, Kathleen, thank you for the kind words! xoxo
Well, I am so excited for your new book. I have so enjoyed getting to know you, and the other girlfriends! What a wonderful society! Sure beats all of the negatives that we are bombarded with on most social media. I am just going about my little life, enjoying my home and work and looking forward to retiring this December, when I will have more time for domesticity! Thanks for all of the inspiration. Barb A.
Thank you so much for all of your inspiration and cheerful outlook on life. So much fun to see your beautiful postings and pictures. I am looking forward to retirement this December, and I will have so much more time for the fun things in life.
Barb
Well, I am so excited for your new book. I have so enjoyed getting to know you, and the other girlfriends! What a wonderful society! Sure beats all of the negatives that we are bombarded with on most social media. I am just going about my little life, enjoying my home and work and looking forward to retiring this December, when I will have more time for domesticity! Thanks for all of the inspiration. Barb A.
That’s the way, what difference does all the rest of it make? Just noise. 😍 xoxo
What a thrill to have one of your brushes. I would paint with it worn out or not. I can’t wait to get the new book, and so disappointed that you couldn’t make it to Oregon. Happy birthday and have a wonderful trip!
So sorry, but we will try again!
Love, love, love the lace curtain in your bathroom. I have lace curtains in the guest bedroom but they aren’t as pretty as yours, and I have a variety of lace pieces that I’ve bought at rummage sales through the years. Coming to see you in Cedar Rapids in May. Cannot wait. Vanna, please pick me! If I win I will keep the book and bookmark and give the paint brush to my daughter for good luck and inspiration who is trying to become a money-earning artist. See you May 13th.
See you then Carole!
Susan –
Just got my confirmation that my ordered book is on its way! So excited. And I am planning to come see you in Pasadena, like I did for A Fine Romance. This time, I am definitely wearing a Girlfriend badge. Oh, and guess what? We are going to England at the end of summer! To hear about wild camel preservation in Mongolia! And visit Canterbury, and the White Cliffs of Dover, and the Tower of London… I can hardly wait. Will have to take your book along as a stowaway.
Sounds just wonderful! See you at Vroman’s!
I’m so excited about the new book… what I wouldn’t give for a signed copy!!! I’m sure I’m too late but if I’m not… I would love to be in the running to get a signed copy!! You’re the best! I hope to see you in CT on 5/1! Until then… be well!
You’re not too late, you’re right on time, Jane!
Susan, I received the notice today that my book is on its way!! Can’t wait to read it. It would still be wonderful to win one to give away to someone else who loves you. You and Joe have a safe and exciting tour; wish you were coming to Charleston, SC, but I understand you can’t go to every city. Looking forward to the movie possibility…..a dream that I’m sure you never even dreamed. I know you’re just that humble!
No, who would dream such insanity? 😜 But then you think, okay weird world, why not! ☺️
Spring has jumped around as much as the Easter Bunny here in Missouri. My lilacs are wafting outside our bedroom and it is too cold to open the windows.
Good golly! Safe travels and plan to see you in St. Charles next month.
Happy Birthday!!
That’s very crazy. Can’t be too much longer for a little warmth on those lilacs!
I love your blog; it is such a warm, cheerful, positive place to be. You’re a beautiful person, thank you so much for sharing with all of us! By the way, my mom began buying your books for me over 20 years ago! We still love going through them together.
Bon Voyage!
Love hearing that Leilani! Tell her I said Hello!
I can not wait to meet you in person when you get to our neck of the woods!
I called the bookstore to make a reservation, they said it was not necessary… they did warn me to arrive early, “these things have a way of filling up,” was their reply. I have a feeling they are going to be blown away by the response.
I’m SO looking forward to seeing so many kindred spirits! xoxo
Am awaiting the mailman bringing my ordered book and I know who I’d gift it to when/if I win one! Enjoying every moment you share with us out here Susan.
kathy
Happy to have you Kathy!
Hello Susan! I just received an e-mail that my copy of your happy book is on its way West to East coast! I’m figuring four, five, or maybe six days. Don’t want to anticipate when it will arrive too much. It’s hard to wait! Also – I saw your lovely half page ad on page 22 of the May/June 2016 issue of Victoria magazine, and another half page ad on page 30 of the May/June 2016 issue of Tea Time magazine : )
Glad to hear that Marianne!
What a surprise!!!! Your book came today!!! I did a quick flip through before I ran to the computer. It’s a beauty!!!
Thank you! Thank you!!!!
I love your last piece of lace tablecloth being used as a curtain.
I’ve been toting my grandmother’s damask tablecloth around for years. In every new apartment/condo/house, the first thing I did was hang it in a window using those clip-type cafe rings.
I know your soon-to-be travels will bring your nothing but happiness and inspirations.
I have no doubt! Love your grandmother’s damask . . .
Yay a blog post and a giveaway makes the sun shine on a gloomy day here in TN. I always feel the same way on a trip, excited to go but sad to leave my house. Your house looks so pretty and sparkly. I hope you have a wonderful birthday and a good trip and I’ll be watching your posts.
Thank you so much Kim!
Home with my hubbie! We both have the flu! Not fun, but gives me time to re-read all of your books. Can’t wait to get the new one! We have had about 5 inches of snow here in Western New York. Spring has not arrived as of yet. Susan do you think you will ever come to Rochester, NY for a book signing? I hope you would consider it. I would love to win one of the Heart of the Home books. I love teacups and collect them along with teapots. It would be fun if you could write about tea! Have fun on your trip. Hugs to you, Joe, Girl kitty and Jack!!
Get well soon Kathleen! Hubby too! We might get up there one of these days, we love that neck of the woods.
Hooray for the new book! I’m eagerly awaiting the arrival of mine. Got the shipment notice from your shop today. Yiiiipppppeeeee! 😃
Yay!
HURRAH, HURRAH!! I just received my email notification that your latest book has been mailed to me!! I absolutely CANNOT WAIT to see it! I have a feeling I’ll be up very late the night I receive it! Looking forward to seeing you in Morro Bay — wishing you a very safe and fun journey!
Margie
See you there Marjory! By then you’ll have the rest of the story! Thank you!
Happy spring cleaning! Can’t wait to read Isle of Dreams. I have to admit I am totally over the top about the updated version of Heart of the Home. You are always dangling the carrot. 😉 I love that! Happy travels! I am anxious to hear all about them.
It’s those little fun things we have to look forward to! xoxo
Can’t wait to see you in Hudson, Ohio!!!
I’ll be there!
Susan
IT IS HERE AND IT IS LOVELY. I JUST NOW RECEIVED YOUR BOOK. IT IS READING TIME THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.. I’LL BE BACK AFTER I HAVE READ A FEW CHAPTERS YES!!!!!!!!
Okay, will love to hear from you! (Bites nails, runs for tea . . .)
OMG OMG OMG OMG AS I HAVE SAID BEFORE I WILL ALWAYS READ THE FIRST FEW CHAPTERS AND THEN GO TO THE END AND SEE HOW THINGS GO. YES I DID IT AGAIN … YOU HAVE A HIT!!!! YOUR ART WORK IS WONDERFUL. THE PICTURES OF YOUR FAMILY AND YOU ARE SO CUTE!!! THE TRIBUTE TO YOUR MOTHER AND YOUR GRANDMOTHERS AND OF COURSE YOUR DAD. THE BOOK IS GOING TO BE A NUMBER 1 WINNER. HOW CAN THEY NOT MAKE A MOVIE OUT OF THIS. I will stop yelling now…but Susan, allot of us will say this, so many of us have gone through what you went through. I can connect with you in so many ways!! You kept diaries (pg 348) I laughed and cheered for you!!!! You did it!!! You had a dream…it took you awhile to get through it…but you had “That Dream”…you never lost site of it…and lucky for all of us girlfriends that you didn’t. I have so enjoyed all the books and now I will go back and read every page Martha’s Vineyard!!! You are blessed and I know you know that…But Know That You Have Blessed So Many Of Us. Especially ME. Thank You So Much, Love, Susan P.
OMG! You are killing me! Yell all you want. You are like my first review! I guess it is good to get a first reviewer who skips to the end!!! I do know that we have all had something very much alike in our lives, I’ve always thought that. And yes, blessed, and blessed with you girls . . . Thank YOU so much Susan. You have made my day. xoxo
Have a fabulous birthday trip. I am so looking forward to reading your new book. I enjoyed The Fairy Tale Girl.
Nice to hear that Arlene!
Cannot wait to read the new book, I have loved A Fine Romance soooo much the pages are showing the wear, ha.
Love your tablecloth curtains! And of course those adorable kitties are too cute for words.
Goods and safe travels.
Pat
Thank you Pat!
Hi Susan! I don’t know how you find enough hours in the day to do all you do! Writing, painting, cooking, washing, ironing, dusting, gardening…… I’m glad you love it all and share so much of it with us! Have a wonderful trip and can’t wait for your book to arrive!
Red letter days, all of them lately! 🙂
I just received your book. Can’t wait to start reading it. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. Linda Prince – Bakersfield, Ca
Oh, there’s someone else who got it, this makes two I know about so far! Yay! Thank you Linda!
I have a request – but only when you have time. When my mother died last year I brought a stack of her old Country Living magazines home. As I was going through them I would see your recipe pages. Mom always had a habit of putting a card to mark a page of a recipe she wanted to make or write on the magazine. But May 1991 she tore out your recipe. All that is left a small corner of the page with a green border. So I was wondering if you know which recipe of yours this is. It had to be one that she wanted to make. But remember only when you have time.
I’m so sorry, I neglected to keep the entire stack of those Country Livings — only just a few, too few, and I really don’t know which recipe was in that issue! I wish I did! So sorry Linda! I’m so sorry about your mom. xoxo
Linda,
I went thru all the recipes that I tore out….but could not find one for May 1991. But I did CALL Country Living Mag…years ago to get a copy of Susan’s Pumpkin Cake recipe…for mine was ruined from years of it hanging in my cupboard with spills and splash…and Not only did I get the recipe they sent me the whole Magazine. So it is worth a try. Good Luck…maybe another girlfriend will find it in her stash and let you know……Susan P
I KNEW one of you girls would come up with something!!! Thank you Susan, good idea! You never know!
Thank you all so much. I will try that. Susan your book is wnderful. I don’t want to put it down. I am enjoying it so much. We have really gotten to KNOW you through your books.
Yay! So happy to hear it Linda! Thank you!
Linda Prince-
I found my copy of May, 1991, Country Living Magazine and Susan’s recipe for that month was for Southwestern Salad. It had a border of chili peppers and a rope and then a green outline.
Susan can you relay this to Linda. I could share recipe or send this to her if she likes. Thanks.
Oh, my message for Linda Prince-Bakersfield, CA looking for your recipe from the May, 1991 Country Living Magazine, was in reply to her April 6th comment to you on your April 4th, “Proud Mommy” post. Not sure how these replies get to you Susan (what order, date, etc). But would like her to get the recipe I found, as I know how important these things can be when we are talking about our Moms. Thanks again.
I’m sure she will be saying thank you to you soon Christine! 💞
My sweet corgi, Oliver, and I have been out in the spring weather here in Waco, Texas giving all of the plants a spring trim. Happy early birthday. Mine is the next Tuesday, April 19th. Weren’t our moms smart to give us springtime birthdays?
Yes, the smartest MOMS! Happy Birthday Di!
Happy Birthday! I hope to see you on the book tour…either Georgia or Ohio 🙂
I am ordering my book today but will be happy with a second copy. Glad you are finished writing for a while because I enjoy your blog and pictures so much and know it takes time to do the wonderful fun thing you do with your books. Enjoy the tour and our beautiful countryside.
I should have had a twin! It would be such a big help!
Hi Susan. So excited your visiting the Tattered Cover in Denver! I’m hoping to meet you! I love your books, recipes, blog and kitties! See you in May. Your girlfriend from the Rocky Mountains. Marianne
See you there Marianne!
Thank You for such adorable blogs……. Love reading them all!! Naturally the giveaways are always fun!
Yeah a give away! I love those. I hope your travels are safe and you have fun meeting everyone.
Dear Susan,
Oh HAPPY DAY!! I just received your book in the mail!! I can’t wait to start reading it!! It looks so wonderful. You are such a gifted writer and an inspiration to all of your girlfriends!! Thank you so much Susan. Isn’t it just like you to give something to your girlfriends on your birthday week!
XO
That was my plan! 😀 You’re the first Juli, to say you have it here in the comment section! My baby has learned to walk already!
Happy, Happy Birthday Week to you Susan.
Thank your parents for having someone as special as you!
Awww, you are so sweet. xoxo
I love being one of your girlfriends~ Take care and have so much fun your mouth hurts from smiling~ Live Happy~ jody in Michigan
I’m feeling kinda like that today! Thank you Jody!
I am absolutely thrilled that my mother and I and a friend are able to join you when you return to Wilmette, Illinois. My mother and I attended at your prior event a few years ago and when I saw that you were returning we signed up. So thrilled.
So happy to hear that, Maureen!
My book has shipped!! So excited!! Can hardly wait!!
My Tea Time Magazine also arrived today with its beautiful add for
“Martha’s Vineyard an Isle of Dreams”! Excited about that too!!
Dear Susan,
So enjoyed Fairy Tale Girl…the text, photos,…I would close my eyes and I would be back in the 60’s and 70’s! Thanks for sharing your “happy gene” with all of us. The world is a better and prettier place because of you!
Thank you so much Peggy! I think the world is a better place because of ALL my girlfriends. It’s just so nice to see so many in one place.
Susan, I have every book you have ever written. I have given many gifts of your books, too. Can’t wait for the latest addition tk my SB library. Enjoy the timid spring.
We are shyly trying to do that!
Hi Susan, Happy Birthday! What an exciting trip and meeting all those people who love your books, wish I were closer. I am so ready to read the latest, my hubs bought me The Fairy Tale Girl for Christmas and it was such a joy. Safe travels!
Laurel
Thanks Laurel!
Happy Birthday in advance to you! Your spring cleaning and decorations have inspired me to clean and redecorate. Your new book looks great- what a huge job to prepare. Safe travels!
Thank you Cam!
Happy birthday to you🎂🎂
Thank you!
I got my book today!!!! Reading and feeling so in awe of your bravery. What a beautiful book! Love the blue on the hard cover and the map and the quotes and how brave you were! Love.
Oh Laurie, that is so nice to hear. I don’t feel that brave!
Just got my shipping email! A signed copy along with the goodies would be extra special!
Aren’t you just loving this crazy New England weather we’re having? Maybe it’s to get you used to all the different weather you will experience traveling cross-country. Have a safe trip. Wish I could stowaway.
Luanne 🙂
I’m waiting for a tad more warmth. The sun has been great today! I’m taking stowaways, will blog it, and hopefully you will be there!
I will pack my backpack and can be ready at a moment’s notice ! I won’t take up much space. Haha…..
Just what I hoped you would say! xo
Oh……forgot say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you!
Oh Susan,
This blog was one of my favorites! There are so many very exciting things happening and you have such a way of expressing each one. You lift my spirits every time I read a post. Thank you for all you give us…
Denise
Thank you Denise, it’s so nice to have you here!
So excited about the new book and the book signing. I plan to see you in St. Charles, MO. Your blog is such an inspiration!
Thank you Julie ~ see you in St. Charles!
What a great idea to give away your old paint brushes, that’s awesome!! Can’t wait to read the New book.
Can’t wait to get my copy of Martha’s Vineyard….and VERY, VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR SUSAN!!! Praying Traveling Mercies for your trip!
We might just need some of those, thank you Judy!
Just got notified that my book is on the way. I’m so looking forward to this one because the pictures of the little cottage in your earlier books have always drawn me in. Love houses and especially small cozy ones! I’m also excited about the new expanded version of HotH! A girlfriend gave it to me when it first came out and I haunted the bookstores for you next books(being the days before internet and blogs). Have them all and love them all! Looking forward to seeing you in Asheville. Hope you have some time to spend there, it’s a really neat town. I get the spring cleaning before you go there is nothing like coming home and absolutely wonderful when it is sparkling clean!! Happy trails!!!
I’m a house person too (in case you can’t tell). Even if it’s just a room, or an apartment, whatever home is, and I have had them all, it is what we have in life. Where things can be done the way we wish they would be. That’s such a gift. xoxo Thank you Carol!
My dearest Susan, hello. My name is Val, I’m 24, living in Colorado, and I am a Dental Hygienist….this is my first time commenting on your fabulous blog. I am doing so due to having just read your invitation to enter to win your signed book. Even if I don’t win, I wish to express my simple gratitude to you, though it’s hard to find the right words to fully articulate how much joy you bring to my day. Hopefully this doesn’t come off creepy, but you speak to my soul. Brighten my day, and you truly are a kindred spirit. Thank you for inspiring me with everything you have created. Have a lovely holiday! Your admirer, Val Pal.
It is so nice to hear from you Valerie! Val Pal, love it! xoxo Thank you!
Can’t wait for the new book!
Can’t wait to read your new book! Exciting times ahead..
I’m looking forward to seeing you in Woodstock, Georgia!! I want to bring my bestie w me- we love your books and blog!
Will love to see you Tina!
Hey, just love all your books and freebies you so graciously give us. Looking forward to the new book. Have a safe book signing !
I’ve enjoyed your books and can’t wait to read this one! Safe travels.
Have a great trip!
Wow, over 2,200 comments already! Absolutely loved reading (and re-reading) both “The Fairy Tale Girl” and “A Fine Romance”…can’t wait to buy your latest book for myself and my besties who love your work as much as I do.
Thanks for the tidbits on possible movies/series (keeping fingers crossed on this)…and dying to know who you picture to play you and Joe.
Best wishes for a wonderful book tour!
In mid move, stopped for tea and thee; saw the pile of books on your table, stopped and called in my order to my local bookstore but will be over the moon with joy to receive one from you to me, with a paintbrush and special bookmark too.
What a happy place you and your Joe are in now. After the boxes are flattened, I hope that my honey and I can get there again.
Keep the letters coming, encouragement is most needed.
Oh my gosh, it’s a double-whammy Spring….I will receive your Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams book any minute, and then get my NEW edition of Heart of the Home to enjoy as soon as it’s ready. Be still my heart. Life is so good!
Aloha from Maui!! Anxiously awaiting this new book of wonderfulness –
Can’t wait to read the new book…I confess I was a little mad at the cliff hanger ending of the last one, but I think I’m over it now. 🙂 Joe’s idea to include old paint brushes in the drawing is inspired, and should I win, I am hopeful some of your creative DNA rubs off on me. A girl can dream!
I felt bad about it, believe me!
Oh, this post really made me feel cheery (for right now) and nostalgic (for the past) and hopeful (for the future). Happy birthday to you! And hope your tour is wonderful and fun, and you’ll be home to your sweet kitties in no time. xo ♥
Ok, well, I started not commenting on giveaway blog posts so someone else can get the gift because you never know someone that wins might actually need the win in their life, but this one is just killing me. Not because I want the gift (of course I do), but because I just want to comment so badly. So I am commenting and if by chance I win, I will just find a way to give this to someone who needs it in their life. Whew. Now that that is out of the way. Only you could make ironing looks this beautiful. I LOVE that you made your curtains from old tablecloths That one is so so lovely. What fun to see the pictures of all the Girlfriends’ smiling faces. Nice to have a face to go with Chris Wells:) The endpapers and the ad look really great too. I cannot wait for my book to arrive!!!!!!! I got notification that it has shipped and I am just fit to be tied waiting to hear my mailman. He already thinks I am crazy and a stalker. Who knows what this will do to him;) OHMYGOSH OHMYGOSH OHMYGOSH A MOVIE OR TV SERIES?!?!?!? IT IS STILL HAPPENING?!?!? HOW WONDERFUL!! I love that the attorney asked that. Yes, I agree with you it should be Zooey It is all about those BANGS and quirky cute happiness. I wish you could give us all the questions he asked and your answers. Happiest of Birthdays on Tuesday. You deserve some time off with your friends and a day all about.you. Thank you for all that you are and do and have done for me without even knowing it. I’m glad you were born!!!! “Oooooh it makes me think of the good old days, Happy birthday to you. You sure grew out of your baby ways, Happy birthday to you. It’s your birthday, wish you many more. Health and wealth and friends by the score. Cut the cake and we’ll eat some more. Happy birthday to you!” Old bday song I sing to my friends and family. youtube.com/watch?v=QoZSm_RPihk You seem like both:) xoxo
PS I think I am going to comment on giveaway posts from now on and have my own little giveaway if I win because it is just too hard not to comment or respond to something another GF said. (why didn’t I think of this sooner? Duh!?!?! all the agony of not commenting Why do I do this to myself lol) xoxo Maybe I can pick someone from the blog who is dealing with a death or illness or something. I’ll probably never win, but if I do I think that is what I would like to do. CAN YOU PLEASE NOT POST THIS WHOLE PS ? It was just for you so you didn’t think I had given in;) thx Not that you would remember, but just in case;) I will, however, not be donating, if you say you are coming to Texas and say you would like to drop round for tea or twine (sp?). That… I will take;)
I have no doubt that when you write, it is a labor (if it can be described as that) of love. I am always whisked away in your adventures and feel like a “fly on the wall” in your life as you share your stories with us girlfriends! I sure would love to get an autographed copy – these books are treasures (as so many books are) and the excitement almost jumps off the pages! I’m crossing all my fingers and toes and praying for Vanna to draw my name! 🙂
Hi Susan,
I can’t wait for your new book to arrive. I will be saving it for our vacation as I have with your others.
Question – what is your ironing board cover? It looks like a quilt? I love the smell fresh ironing and your crisp, white linens look heavenly.
All the best on your tour. Thanks for taking us with you!
XO
Mary
Oh Happy Day! What a relief you must feel knowing your “baby” has been safely delivered. You labored long & hard over the years to bless us with your special light! Patiently waiting for my copy to arrive (email said it is on the way)! Wishing you a very delightful spring birthday next week with your Island girls! My faraway forever friend had a birthday on the first day of Spring (another smart mom)! I can’t think of a nicer time for a birthday! BTW my gift to her was The Fairy Tale Girl! She has been a fan of yours forever too (also a Valley girl). Naturally, her next birthday gift will be Isle of Dreams – I’m saving dessert for last! Blessings to you & Joe during your travels. Hope to see you in Danville! Kisses for the kitties!
Susan – What a joyful day when you leave a blog post, and we Girlfriends gather to read and respond as a community! Thank you for the beauty you create in our lives, the delight you remind us to seek in each day, and the example of your friendships which you faithfully nurture and cherish. Thank you, sweet girl!
Would love to win one of your books! I sure hope the movie deal goes through!
Just received an email today that your book is on the way! I can’t wait to sit down and read it. I hope to see you in Pasadena.
Very smart of you to clean your house so it will be nice on your return. I love that you think of those curtains that have been with you all these years and through all your life’s events like they are old friends. I think that way about objects too!!
I bet the hardest part of going away is leaving those adorable kitties. If they could only travel with us, or at least understand when we say we will be back.
Have a beautiful Birthday!!😊
Looking forward to reading this book…and I sure hope a movie comes from all of your beautiful tenacious work! Would love to visit Martha’s Vineyard someday, and England for tea!
Oh yay! This is exciting indeed! It almost doesn’t matter if I win because I’ll be ordering a book and can’t wait to read this next installment of your life’s story!
Thank you for adding the bonus of a book mark and paint brush – great idea! And thank you for adding joy and light to the lives of so many of your readers and fans! If I need a little pick-me-up, I know I can find it on your blog!
Safe and happy travels as you head out!
🙂
Kathleen
Oh, I so can’t wait!!!
I’m in Colorado with my daughter and saw that “the books” are going to be mailed soon….and it will probably be there before I get back! But, it will be something to look forward to! Hoping to see you in either Danville or San Luis Obispo. Crossing my fingers. Travel safely Susan and Joe.
Cheers
Jan from Northern CA
Oh, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! 🙂
Dear Susan, you are amazing – so generous with your creativity and love of home. Of course, I must start immediately to clean house and paint. Or not yet, as the storms here have made yard cleaning up imperative. But it all sticks in my mind – starch, sparkly things, flowers … home. Smiling big.