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!
Susan,
Your new book arrived on Saturday, OH Happy Day!! I am reading it slowly in order to savor the whole story. Thank you so much. Hope Spring comes to Martha’s Vineyard soon.
Thank you, I think, by law, it HAS to! 🙂
Dear Susan,
Thank you so much for your new book. It is such a joy to be reading about your life and dreams. I’m trying to read it slowly because I really don’t want it to end. This book is my favorite of the three. I loved how you described the treasures that you found in Agnes’s attic. It brought tears to my eyes just seeing those little shoes, and her little hair curls, and how tenderly you wrote about her. Because of you, we LOVE AGNES!! I just love everything about this book. My favorite picture is the one with your three kitties watching the bird feeder out the window. SO CUTE! I love your drawings, the quotes, your humor, (you have me laughing and crying at the same time). But most of all, you have a way of writing that connects to all of your Girlfriends…..the warm and cozy feelings of love that you give us, the inspiration on what is important in life, and to never give up on our dreams. Thank you Susan! We have found a treasure in you.
God Bless you and Joe.
xo
You have me laughing and crying at the same time just reading your words! Thank you Juli!!!xoxoxo
Happy Birthday tomorrow, from one April baby to another.
Back to you Rebecca!
Oh, JOY! Vanna , please pick me, PLEASE! It’s raining here and I would love to have this wonderful book to read while the spring rains come down. I’ll be waiting to hear from you. ;D Theresa
Dear Susan,
I can’t tell you how much I am enjoying Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams! It arrived on Saturday afternoon; my husband came in from the snowy outdoors holding it aloft and saying,”Look what’s here! Guess what came!” Thank heavens he understands me. That was it for the weekend, besides grocery shopping. I have cooked one meal since opening the envelope. I am enthralled, and thank you for letting us peek into your past. The photos are as wonderful as the paintings, and the loden green ribbon is the EXACT color of the sweater I used to sneakily borrow from my older sister’s closet after she left for class. Thank you a million times!!!
xoxo,
~queenmum
Thank you back queenmum . . . you are a doll to take the time to tell me. Hello to your smart husband!
I will give him the message!
I hadn’t ordered the new book yet .. I don’t know why. Then, it came as a gift yesterday. I began. Now, I am doing everything possible to make it last! Maybe tonight before I start in again, I’ll go back and look at all the artwork carefully. I don’t want this to end? But of course, it does need to end for you. You need to meet Joe. So, all I can say is thank you. The amount of work put into a book like this is just astounding. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Every bit of me enjoys it!
You are so welcome and thank you back, for the kind words, I’m thrilled that you are enjoying it!
I’m half way thru.. It’s a work of art.
Oh my. xoxo
Oh dear, I’m just catching up with you – though I’m usually more aware of your postings , I seem to have found other things to get in my way – oh the shame!
But at the end of this posting, you mentioned working of fabric – and I’m confused………….are you working on a new line of fabric – or did you mean you are washing and starching and such?
If it is the first – new fabric – I’m thrilled to hear that! But I’m just as happy to hear about ‘spring’ cleaning and washing/starching/hanging out on the line in the fresh air and sunshine — because those things are just so cozy and warm and lovely too.
Came home after a week in Michigan and my book was here. YIPPEE! I had to sleep last night or I would still have my nose in it. Loving it so far. You are an inspiration. See you in June in Prescott AZ. Happy trails. Safe Travels.
Thank you Angie, see you in June!
This past Saturday, April 9th, after spending the day rug hooking with friends , I returned home to find a package and I knew immediately it was the new book. I could not wait to read it. Like you, I enjoy friends. Your writings and art are so uplifting and a true joy. Thank You, Thank You:)
Dear Susan,
Thank you so much for all the joy you bring me on a daily basis. I have been a fan for decades now, and love, love, love your ability to find pleasure in the simpler parts of our daily lives.
Your book arrived Saturday and I am savoring the right circumstances for starting it — a fire, cup of tea and a quiet afternoon — but I can already tell I love it just from the heft and the feel and ribbon and the bookmark and even the envelope it came in!
Loved your previous two books and keep them stacked on a desk near the bed so that I can pick either one up at will and be transported to another place and time.
Would love to see you when you visit our area, but you’ve been sold out for months now!
Mother and I went to England together for a special time several years ago. I heard about A Fine Romance and knew we had to read it. We both just finished it and Loved it! We are definitely Susan Branch fans! Already have my ticket to see you in Kansas City. I can hardly wait.
Can’t wait for the new book. Have been to Martha’s Vineyard and enjoyed the visit. I so enjoy your books. I have your Autumn and Summer books. Just think of the happiness that you bring to the simple things of life. It is like a breath of fresh air as I read of your daily events.
Susan I am half way through FairyTale Girl after receiving it the Mail on Thursday. It is inspirational as all your books are. Going through a rough time with my 90 year old mom who broke her hip a few weeks back and your book is the perfect read before bed to calm my nerves. My other favorite author passed away a couple of years ago and I always meant to write and tell her how much her writing meant to me. Not gonna make that mistake with you! Not that you are going anywhere!
Hi Susan, my dear friend, I got your new book on Saturday, and I’m almost done reading it. I love it to pieces, and beyond. Every single page speaks directly to me. The cats, the cooking, the gardening, the little things that make a house a home. Everything. Thanks so much for making all of us feel important for all the little things we do for our families. I especially like all the laughs sprinkled around. You are a true kindred spirit, as Anne of Green Gables would say. Thanks again!
I just got my book! So EXCITED. I just wish there were some book signings close to me when I could go! I got my Fine Romance signed here in Bakersfield CA at Strawberry Patches. It was really lovely to meet you.
Susan, today’s message is bittersweet because my lovely mother-in-law who was your greatest fan passed away in February. We shared a love for you and your books, recipes and art work. I know she really wanted to read your new book, but alas, Fairy Tale Girl was the last she was able to enjoy. I will read Martha’s Vinyard a few extra times for her!
Oh darn, I hurried as fast as I could. I’m so sorry dear Lee. Terrible sad loss. She is in heaven now. xoxoxo
hURRAH! tHANKS FOR ALL YOUR HARD WORK & LOVE THAT YOU SHARE WITH US! hAVE A BEAUTIFUL DAY
O my 3000 over so exciting your new book are happening mine will have to wait because funds are a bit tied up at the moment. I’m waiting patiently. Really want to get them both hopefully soon. Wish also one day I can go meet you in person as well. I been spring cleaning in my dinning room only to realize I own tons of glasswares but I don’t want to part with any of it at the moment lol, i do do windows lol. Just cleaned the blinds and curtains and windows.. Just love your babies, I look forward to seeing them as much as you.. I have to check back to see if I’ve missed any post I was sick with a ickie cold virus… Happy lovelye Monday,… If you leave before I get back to visit again have a safe and great trip, with love Janice, San Francisco. I hope one day you can come here to visit.
You will never get this post…..3,000+ comments and counting??!!!! Woweeee!! But I have to comment…I am halfway through your book…Susan…it’s a good thing I don’t have your phone number because last night I would have called to comfort you and tell you our circumstances touch like two wondering rivers…parting, coming briefly together and parting again down the bend. All I can say is you conjured up things I had to bury long ago…. Know that almost everyone out here in the ‘outer circle’ of your life has gone through all the insecurities and self-doubt and relationship dramas as you have. In some ways we are all joined together and are sisters. You made me laugh and made me cry and made me mad as heck at u-know-who and I wanted to note that that someone can’t seem to completely let go of you!! It is an ego-crushing thing to be rejected by the one you are head-over-heels in love with. But guess what?deep in his heart he knows he screwed up because you were the real thing. Because I think that some men don’t love you as much as they love that you love them so much. You are a keeper….we all know that….❤️❤️❤️ So much emotion you have evoked in me!! Here I sit amidst boxed and boxes of unpacked stuff….and I can’t put your book down and now I have to go so I can keep reading. (I hate to fly as much as you…..someday I’ll tell you my flight story….😳)…..
LOL Karen! I loved that!
Yay!!! I can’t wait to read your latest treasure! Your books just make me happy. Thank you for creating such lovely treasures❤️
Such a wonderful give-away – what a treat it would be to win! I am really looking forward to joining your picnic when you come over to England, later in the year. I am very much a stay-at-home body, but will definitely step out of my comfort zone to meet such a delightful lady x
Hello Dear Sue,
Wishing you a happy birthday seems redundant-your happy gene came right along with your birth! What a fantastic year behind you and such a brilliant one ahead. May every day be filled from an overflowing cup of love, adventure and opportunity.
Wishing you joy beyond the stars. Marty
Hi Susan – So – who would you like to see playing ‘you’ in the movie version of your life? How fun would it be to see that come to life!!
Best wishes for a wonderful spring — still waiting here in CT
Martha from CT!
Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! My book came today!!’ I’ll be up all night reading!! Thanks!! Love, lucy
I Love Lucy. 😃
I just want to wish you the most wonderful of birthdays! Hope the day is extra, extra special filled with lots of wonderful things and good times! My book has arrived (yeah!), and I can’t wait to enjoy it. I have been a follower of yours for a very long time; I still have my snail mail Williards which I treasure. I am hoping that everything will work so that I can meet you on your tour. I also look forward to meeting like minded girl friends in the line : ) It seems not many people treasure home and the home arts like they used to. Thank you for all that you do with your art, your books, your blogs – divine!
I think more of us do than not . . . but that’s just me! Nice to hear from you Debbie! xoxo
I received my book and I love it!!! Your story, your artwork, everything about it. I am so enjoying it and I’m going to hate coming to the end of the book. I love how you make me feel as if I’m right there with you. I can’t wait to see the movie. I hope it happens!
Wouldn’t that be amazing? Who would ever think???!
Waiting, waiting, waiting. Soon it shall arrive and I’ll be including in the cheering.
Can’t be too much longer!
So looking forward to meeting you in Hudson, OH. Will be there with my Mom. Hope you have the best birthday celebration! I have been hooked on your cookbooks (and books) for years, though I don’t have the very first one. But I am excited to buy the 30th anniversary version of “Heart of the Home” when it becomes available. Stay safe and have fun on your travels! See you in May.
P.S. A movie or TV series?! That would be so wonderful! That will absolutely go on my prayer list.
Thank you! I do think it will be a miracle if it happens, and I will have to blame you for a part of that! xoxo See you and your mom in Hudson!
I would love, love, love one of your brushes…even though my book is coming any day now. Keep up the good work.
Thank you Leota . . . xo
I’m halfway through your book and loving it! It’s a wonderful book…….everything from your writing, quotes, art work and photos. It arrived in time for my birthday yesterday and after enjoying a delicious dinner out with my wonderful husband…..your book was the perfect ending to a very Happy Birthday. May you enjoy the same kind of day on your own birthday tomorrow!
Thanks so much Janice, and Happy Birthday to you!
Susan, I just received my book. Perfect, stormy day in Oklahoma to be reading, and waiting for supper to finish cooking. I am on page 24 and I already do not want this book to end. Thank you so much for writing and illustrating it so perfectly. Love, Becky in OK
Love it Becky, thank you!
I am waiting for your book on pre-order from Amazon. I have loved Heart of the Home and was thrilled when I started scrapbooking that I found your stickers and beautiful papers. Such a fan of your talent! Can’t wait for the book!
Hope it gets there soon Glee!
Isle of Dreams was the Susan Branch volume I’ve been looking forward to ever since you mentioned several years ago that you would be drawing on your diaries to write the story of your life on the island. As someone near your age who chose solitude in a small house in the woods (in my case, on a mountain), I was eager to read about the building blocks of your happy life. Like you, I’ve depended on dear friends, nature’s changing seasons, an animal companion, inspiring books and films…and meditation! My fairy tale ending has been to continue to thrive in solitude, grateful for these many blessings. I must say that you have VERY successfully accomplished your mission of inspiring others. And your lovely passage about autumn (on page 136) is going into one of MY many books of hand-copied quotes. Thanks so much for this lovely, lovely book.
And thank you Gale for your wonderful comments . . . I always felt that my story had bits of everyone in it . . . the searching part especially. xoxo
Omg…..less than an hour ago, my darling husband handed me a package…..and I opened it with so much excitement that he smiled…..and THERE WAS MY NEW BEST FRIEND AND COMPANION……! i am only into chapter one …..you are eating your first breakfast with your newspaper, but I am savoring every painting, saying, picture, and word! You have no idea how much I loved the 80’s…lol…! I know I paid for the book, but this is a treasure….thank you thank you thank you! XOXOXOXO
Thank you right back Diane! Have fun in the 80s!xoxo
I LOVED the book!!! So inspirational and wise and reassuring in the long run, although I hissed when you know who flew in on the Lear jet! I knew it was going to be fine but still!
Fabric oh my. Do you know that fabric with writing or print on it is a “thing” in quilting now? And I know an artist who has tons of wonderful writing on print-you of course! Yes, I love the art and remember the cool fabric with art on it, you will be all over that. But go to red pepper quilts blog or some other ones to see how people use the fabric with “print” on it. I think black on white is the usual, although sometimes on grey or another neutral works as well.
Thank you for the wonderful read. And so much to think about as well.
What a great idea. SB’s quotes on SB fabric 🙂
Got the book on Friday and finished it last night (Sun.)! Loved it!!!! Would have read it straight through if I could have carved out the time. Now, back to A Fine Romance. Thanks for a great read. I relived my days after college living the single life in my adorable efficiency apt. I felt just like That Girl and Mary Tyler Moore. Happily married now for 45 years but wouldn’t trade those independent days for anything! Loved being able to eat popcorn for dinner and to decorate with cuteness and pink!!
Adorable Carol! Thank you!
Wonderful!!
I am getting sooo excited to meet you and Joe in Salt Lake City at the Kings English Bookstore!… a dream come true!… love seeing all of your beautiful photos today… and both kitties together!… a treat!… Happiest of birthdays to you tomorrow dear Susan, and to Gladys Taber too!… xoxo… Julie Marie
Thank you Julie Marie, see you there!
Oh My over 3,000 comments. Is it any wonder? I just received my book today and of course I poured a cup of tea and got cozy in my favorite chair to read. This one is even more wonderful than all the others, Susan. I literally had to force myself to put it down so that I can savor every chapter. I’ll be attending your book signing at the Unlikely Book shop on the 30th. See you there.
Happy Birthday! You just keep getting better and better.
Karen
Would love a copy of your new book. Just love Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket area. And finding a new life there would be wonderful! Lynn
Your site always fills my soul with beautiful cozy and warm feelings. You actually make ironing look like fun especially if I put Niagra starch in my water. Thank you for totally getting my motivation juices flowing when it comes to my home, inside and out. Even looking through little Johnny-jump-ups at a rain splashed window gives me a wonderful cozy feeling. Thank you for mirroring so many similar, warmth in my life. Judi from AZ
Happy Birthday! Congrats on your many recent successes!
I got The Fairy Tale Girl as a Christmas gift from my daughter. I was so excited and enjoyed it very much. Can’t wait to get this one. I love your blog
Happy Birthday just a few hours early! My darling son arrived on April 12, too!
You’ve spread so much joy and enjoyment through your blog & great books! Can’t wait to read the new one and I will wear my Girlfriend Tag at your event at Rainy Day books in Mission, KS!
I love your work and can’t wait to get the book, but RIGHT NOW my sweet 4 year old MUST see the birdie on this page!
Happy Monday!
Your book arrived today in the mail, and my husband had it waiting for me on the dinner table when I got home tonight! Can’t wait to read it tonight when it is time for bed. I have to admit that I did already read the last few pages, I had to see how it ends. Have an awesome week! Wishing you and yours only the best!
Hugs!
Susan, I just couldn’t resist. I wrote a post about your new book on my blog to share with my readers. This one is truly amazing!
karenharveycox.blogspot.com
Have a beautiful evening.
Karen
That was so nice, Karen!!! Wow! Just too much. You are a sweetheart . . . loved our photo together at the Titcombs book signing!
Came home today from a trip to find your new book waiting for me. I’d love to win the personally signed copy so I could pass this one on to my daughter. I can’t wait to read it.
Happy Birthday, Susan, and have safe travels.
I would love to visit Martha’s Vineyard through the pages of one of your books !
Dear Susan,
Your book came in the mail on Saturday and I spent my entire weekend reading it. It was wonderful! Every. Single. Page. I have been a fan for years. I grew up in the SLO area and have always felt like we are kindred spirits due to our common interests in cooking and crafting and all things homey. Because of you and your books, I honeymooned on Martha’s Vineyard way back in 1998. I once met you at a bookstore in Southern California in 2000 and had you sign all my books, and I visited your store in Arroyo Grande several times. I’m an avid reader of your blog and still have stashes of your stickers that I use to decorate my journals. Sadly, I am now in the midst of a divorce but reading your book really lifted my spirits. Before I decided to divorce I used to tell myself, “Life isn’t like they show it in movies, but I’d like mine to resemble one, at least a little.” Your books have given me hope that fairy tales can come true and that maybe, just maybe, my life can have a happily ever after if I just keep putting one foot in front of the other. Thanks for sharing your story and for all the positivity you send out into the world.
PS: I sent you some handmade Christmas tags last December. Did you ever get them?
Yes, I did, thank you Michelle, I’m just foreverly behind on thank you’s! And divorce, awful thing, but you’ll get through it, and maybe someday, like me, you’ll see there was a reason and a purpose . . . xoxo
Dorothy, I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore 🙂 wow, look at these comments! Hope my little one isn’t too late 🙂
Right on time!
Happy Birthday Susan!! Have a wonderful day!! Hugs from Barbara S. in Parrish, FL
Susan! I can’t believe that I will finally be making my first trip to Martha’s Vineyard in May, & you won’t be there! I was secretly hoping I’d just “happen” to run into you, & of course since we have SO much in common, you’d invite me in for a cup of tea! We are both Valley Girls with the same name that do not like to fly!
Because of all your books, I have always wanted to visit MV.
Looking forward to your new book!
A very very long time fan 💙
You are coming at the perfect time, me or no me. It should be beautiful and not too many people yet! I’m so happy you’ll get to see it! xoxo
Happy Happy Birthday!
🎂🎉🍾🎂
I received my book yesterday and I’m savoring every word and picture……
I saw you at Bookworks in Albuquerque the last time you were here and it was such a thrill………………I have always enjoyed all your books so I was so happy when you came here. You have such a gift in your writing and artwork. I’m blessed to be a fan of yours!!………………………………….Lori T.
I finished your book…..I was mad I was done. It was absolutely positively fantabulously PERFECT!!! You filled my ‘complete-o-meter’. Some books and movies leave you feeling empty and not all questions answered. But you not only ended it well with all the bells and whistles you wrapped and tied a bow around it….. Well done…just dang well done!!❤️💜❤️
PS……Happy Birthday….the day is yours, wear it well!!!
My first birthday present of the day, Karen! Thank you!!!! XOXO
I hope you have a wonderful time on the book tour. I know it’s so hard to leave home and the kitties for such a long time, but you always have someone that takes care of both (especially the kitties) while you’re away so I know that relieves your heart some. Can’t wait for the new book–the little glimpses have been so tantalizing.
Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday, Susan!! Wishing you a lovely day, a fun tea party with your friends, and a whole month of birthday celebration! Also wishing you and Joe safe travels on your book tour, and I’m looking forward to blog updates as you travel the country. I enjoy traveling with you and sharing your adventures!
Barb
Wishing you a very Happy Birthday today, filled with all of the things you love!
I CANNOT wait to read this book! I’m working on “Fairytale Girl” right now and loving it! Hope I’m not too late for the giveaway! Thanks for all that you do!
Hope you have a wonderful day with your Martha’s Vineyard friends today for your TGIT(uesday) party for your birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Susan!
Happy Birthday Dear Susan…..Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday Susan!!!
Have a lovely day!
Happy birthday Susan…hope you have a wonderful day. I have no doubt you will be made to feel special.
I’m a year behind you, so i remember how many candles will be on the cake😀🎂. A very special year coming up ahead with all your plans.
Suzanne in Sydney, Australia
Just wanted to tell you “I got mine” last night in the mail and it made my Monday for sure. Love the green ribbon and the bookmark. Thanks for all you and Joe do for us. Enjoy your trip.
Hi Susan! I received Isle of Dreams last Saturday and I was so excited! Can’t wait to read it, as I was so disappointed when I came to the end of Fairy Tale Girl, I didn’t want it to end!!! I posted your book on my Instagram feed and hashtaged you, there are some lovely pictures posted there. Hope you’ll come back on Instagram and post again. Happy birthday is in order too! Enjoy your day my lovely friend!!
Happy Birthday today, Susan! Hope you have a fun and relaxing day with your girlfriends! Also Happy Birthday to our dear Gladys Taber, I have you to thank for finding her and her wonderful writing.
So Happy Birthday to my two favorite authors! I’m reading Isle of Dreams now, so wonderful, can’t put it down!
Good morning,
Happiest of birthdays to you dear Susan!!!! Enjoy!!!
Just received my book in the mail today…it is beautiful…love the colored wave like patterns on the book jacket..just finished re re reading the Fairytale girl and am ready to start the new one. Love all the paintings throughout the book….even some more recipes..must try the rhubarb one.
You give me such inspiration!
Have a wonderful day…Kathie from Limerick
Even though I tried to read it slowly I still finished your book last night. It was quite wonderful. For the next book you have to continue the story and tell us how you moved to the current beautiful white house with all the flowers. What has happened to the little cottage in the woods?
Oh sweet Sue I just finished your book and it was fantastic, wonderful, beautiful! I laughed, cried, sighed, and had a hard time putting it down. It is an inspirational story and I think will help me with my “what’s next moment.” Wishing you a wonderful birthday as you celebrate and please know that your book is truly a work of art—priceless. Sending birthday hugs across the sound! xoxoxo
Dear Susan, Good morning and “HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR SUSAN HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!” Just wanted to say hello and wish you the very best on your special day. Funny story …..I happened to be down the Vineyard last Saturday and Sunday( my birthday) with my son and daughter-in-law and my three year old granddaughter on an unexpected visit to see another son who lives in Vineyard Haven. It was an impromptu trip and a great time was had by all. I dropped by your house with a little something for you (just a card and something to add to one of your collections) but no answer at the front door. I will bring it with me on the 30th in Plainville for your luncheon. And the best news is that I got an e-mail that your book will be here on the weekend!! Have a most wonderful birthday with your girlfriends! And Joe! And the kitties! And enjoy every morsel of your birthday cake!! Take care and see you in Plainville!
Happy Birthday to you Sweet Susan and to your beloved Gladys Taber!
My Auntie Penny received your book yesterday, just in time for her wrist surgery recovery to begin. She said it’s fantastic…my copy should be arriving any day. Squeeeeal, pant, pant, pant!
I just finished my first Gladys Taber book, she is a joy to read. Very heartfelt and profound…then absolutely laugh out loud funny from one sentence to the next!
I hope you have a day full of all of the joy and charm and delight you bring to each of us.
❌⭕️❌⭕️,
Tawni Urrutia, in Lodi Ca
Happy Birthday!!!! Hope you are out with the girls having a wonderful time! I reread the book and love it even more!!! I feel lucky to own it:) xoxo
Congratulations on the book and keeping my fingers crossed that all goes well with the entertainment deal!
All the best to you and yours.
Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday dear Susan, Happy Birthday to you!!!
Just finished “Isle of Dreams” this morning!….absolutely the BEST! Loved every page of it…now what?….I cannot start any other book, as this one is still very front and center in my mind/heart!…Thank you for sharing your heart with us…once again!
Happy birthday!!!
Are you sure your Mom didn’t have an extra baby that got lost in the mix? I’m the same age as you, my Husband is five years younger then me, and I have relatives from years ago by the name of Foster. Whats up with that? Just finished the book, loved it, wrote a review. I like porches too. Big ones.
Nancy Jo
Dear Susan
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!
Hope you are having a wonderful day,wishing you health,love and happiness always!!
Thank you for bringing so much joy into our lives.
xoxox, Patricia
Hey Susan. Isle of Dreams has landed in Delaware! It’s so pretty, I have it on my night stand to just look at. I’ve read and looked all through the jackets, but I don’t want to start reading it yet. I know I will not be able to put it down and be finished quickly as I am all your books. I just LOVE THEM all! Happy belated Birthday, I think it was yesterday April 12. I hope you had a great day, because you sure made mine. THANKS
Dear Susan,
Wishing you much happiness and love on your SPECIAL DAY!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
xo
Oh my over 3000. So happy for you!!! I had put the fairy tale girl away when I first received it and am waiting for the next cuz I knew I would not be able to wait for the in between if you know what I mean. Now I get to read them both and my heart will be content!!!!
Hello Susan! “HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEARRRRRRRRRRRR SUSAN, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUUUUUUU!!!Wishing you a WONDERFUL Birthday, and a WONDERFUL year!!!! May your days be filled with good health and many happy days, all year long!!!! The mailman delivered your Isle of Dreams on Saturday!!! I placed it on the piano just staring at the package for awhile, until just the right time to open it! It is beautiful!!!! Each page is a work of art!!!! As I turn and read each page (trying soooooooo hard not to peek at the upcoming pages) it is a delight to see your artwork, hand written words, and photos……..just like you are telling the story in person! My goodness Susan, 360+ pages of mini gifts all wrapped up into one!!! I am only on page 100…….I have to slow down to make it last…….but I know I will just turn around and reread it again!!! That’s just how great your books are!!! Truly a masterpiece of “eye candy” for future generations to come! (I believe your books will become treasures for the soul, just as the many books you still saved from Holly Oak!) If you ever became a saint…..St. Susan……you would be the saint of writing books and watercolors!!!!! Take care and have the best birthday ever!!!! (P.S. I have to go take down my Easter decorations……no more excuses……your book has arrived!!!!)
If I ever become a saint, we are all in very big trouble! LOL! Thank you dear, so very sweet.
Happy Birthday dear Susan
Happy Birthday to you!
Xxx Gill
Happy Happy Birthday, Birthday Girl!!!!!!!!!
Hope that your day is special in every way and that Joe, Girl Kitty and Jack have a special surprise planned for you. Well, on Friday I received my copy of “Martha’s Vinyard : Isle Of Dreams” (thank you Kellee, Sheri and Alfredo) and what a thrill. I started the book on Saturday and finished it on Sunday at 2:00 AM. I loved it !!!!!!!!!!! I did not want to put it down. You have such a wonderful way of telling a story. Loved all the pictures, artwork and quotes. You were so honest about your feelings and so compassionate in the telling of your story. You showed the value of keeping a diary. When you described seeing your cottage for the first time and your plans for it to make it your own, I so related to those feelings. As a military wife (now retired) every new set of quarters,
I went through that process of taking those empty quarters and turning them into our home with those special touches. I did that ten times over the course of my husbands career. I loved Myron and Elle and what a wonderful friendship you had with each other. Those are the kind of people that make life special. What talent Carleton had and loved seeing all his creations that you drew out for him. He too was a wonderful friend. Poor Cliff, he just couldn’t help being himself. All he needed was an audience. I know that was a difficult time for you and you found such a positive way to work your way through it . We have all had that experience of trying to get that person that isn’t the best for us out of our system. It is painful because at the time you can’t see what is on the road ahead for you. Those are the moments in life that grow our faith and grow us as a person. It is what you had to go through to get to your Joe. Loved all the stories of your precious three kitties who got you through everything. You showed the value of your friends in your life and their support. Have loved in all three of your books how you showed the love of your family and their support for you was such an important part of your life. You have such a wonderful self -deprecating sense of humor. Having been a professional book buyer before I met my husband, I really enjoyed the part about writing your book and the publishing process. So glad that you wound up at Little Brown & Co. Your descriptions of your love for Martha”s Vinyard has difinitely put it on my list of places I want to go. So glad in the end that you and Cliff finally each found your own happiness and managed to remain friends. You are a great lady and a quality person. Thank you for sharing your story.
Hugs and Kisses XXXOOO
Dear, SUSAN
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Have a great day!
Your Friend, Alice
Is this Alice Lucas from Aylesbury? 🐾
Sorry but, no.
Sincerely, Alice
Wishing you a very Happy Birthday Susan!😘🌹🌻🌺🐱🎂
Hope you have a wonderful day, be good to yourself.
With much love Gill xx
Oh Happy Day! My book arrived yesterday. I immediately sat down and went through every page to look at the photos and artwork. It’s a big book! Now I’ll go back through and read it and look at the photos and artwork again. Thanks, Susan.
Happy Birthday, Dear Susan….Happy Birthday to you….(cue MUSICA!!)
Hope your special day is filled with love, hugs, music and goodies!!
My friend Nicole just shared her new copy of Isle of Dreams with me! Such a treasure for the eyes, the heart and the soul!!! Femininity in its most positive form!!
Happy Birthday Susan! I love my birthday on the first day of SPRING, my favorite time of year! Managed to celebrate my birthday for over two weeks, my girlfriends, THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF OJAI surprised me with a fabulous pot luck luncheon, flowers and telephone calls from family and friends, going to lunch with my dear Aunt Donna at PARADISE COVE, MALIBU! I hope your birthday is celebrated today and for the days to come, thank you for the joy and good food, art, ideas of home keeping you have brought to my life! My sister in law, Sherri, Falmouth Cape Cod, gave me your very first cook book, first edition! and it is my go to book, never leaves my kitchen, some of the pages (many of them) are marked and stick together, and yes I’ve had it more of my married life than not, (celebrating 36 years this November). I hope to see you again on this tour and bring my book so maybe you can sign it, it was so fun at the Madonna Inn a couple of years ago.So THANK YOU AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY from Ojai CA
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SUSAN!! I have been on a “spending freeze” since we are paying for my son to go study in London this summer (and his sister will get to go visit and travel with him!!!) YAY!! I am so excited for them but I want to go too 😉 Anyway… thats why I had not ordered my book until today!! I had to “choose out” a couple other things to buy too while I was shopping 😉 … ya know! Well, now I’ll be checking the mailbox everyday awaiting the arrival of Martha’s Vinyard, Isle of Dreams!!! Ooooo I am so excited!! I hope you have a great day … I am off to do some more SPRING CLEANING. You inspire me!!
It’s your birthday! Happy Happy Birthday, Susan! You, Gladys Tabor, and Beverly Cleary all share this birthday so obviously a good day for authors! I know April’s a great birthday month because both of my granddaughters celebrate their birth in April!
My daughter and I can’t wait to see you at Fox Tale Book Shoppe in Woodstock, GA. Every time I read someone’s comment about seeing you there, it’s hard for me to resist replying, “And I’ll see you, too!”
XO Susan L
I have a terrible time reading and NOT replying, but I want to write a new WILLARD today, so I really have to get going, and yet, and yet . . . !
Happy Birthday you fabulous person you 🙂 We’re not getting old … we’re getting AWESOME ♥ May this be a very special day for you, your mom & blogdaddy too! See you for tea on 6.11 in Prescott Arizona. Can’t wait to sip a cuppa with you and the girlfriends ♥ xoxo
P.S. Happy National Grilled Cheese Day too! Now, how did THAT happen to coincide with your birthday??? 🙂 🙂 🙂
I mean, how perfect can you get?
Happy Birthday, Sue!
Sending you a big hug and wishes for a wonderful day and a year ahead full of blessings!
Could not let the day go by without wishing you the very happiest Birthday ever. Could you please add my ring to your candle? May all your wishes & dreams continue to come true, no one deserves it more. Thank you for being the candle’s flame in all our lives…..much love from one of your GF’s xoxo ~SB~(my initial’s too)!
Happy Birthday, Susan!
Wishing you lilacs and laughter,
Elizabeth
Susan….wishing you oodles of birthday fun! Thinking of you and your adventure about to start. Never do what I just did…fell in my kitchen and broke my right arm. unbelievable…as my granddaughter was born a few hours later. Book signing would be really challenging . Wishing you wonderful travels. Will tell my SLO friends to make a date for the Morro Bay event. Good luck!
A very Happy Birthday, Susan! I just finished “Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams” within the last fifteen minutes! I have no words! It’s difficult to compose one’s thoughts when shedding tears that come from the gentle touches of one’s heart! Absolutely ENCHANTING, my friend! Thank you!
I can’t tell you how happy that makes me! You write a book, and you never know, you just never know! I’m finding out now with the words from my wonderful Girlfriends! Thank you Carol!
Happy Happy Birthday Susan,
Received your book just the other day, but also saw my husband
browsing thru it too! Looks like we’ll both be enjoying your story.
Have a wonderful day.
My book came today!!! It’s so beautiful Susan. I had to show it all around the office as if I was a proud mommy! Don’t know how I’m going to keep my mind on work this afternoon! LOL