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!
So excited to receive the new book in the mail…can’t wait! I can just imagine your relief to be finished. Now the fun begins…..Enjoy that birthday…cake has no calories for birthday girls so eat a really big piece. Wishing you blessings for safe travel and hoping each day will hold many happy surprises for you along the way….after all, you are going on another adventure of meeting “girlfriends” who just love you…what could be finer!!! Hugs! Vicki
Dear Susan,how exciting for you!! The arrival of your new book, and another grand adventure, I can’t even imagine how delighted, yet probably a little stressed, you are:) Looking forward to seeing you, and Joe, in Hudson at The Learned Owl. I will keep you in my prayers as you travel across our beautiful country. And I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of Isle of Dreams, I’ve been looking forward to reading this since the very moment I finished Fairy Tale Girl. Thank you for blessing us with such lovely books. Safe travels!
I just love all of your books and can’t wait to receive this latest one – to know that they are coming out this week is fantastic. Your illustrations are amazing and I love that you have written these personal books – it is like we’ve known you for years. Thank you, thank you.
This is my first time leaving a comment as I’ve just recently started reading your blog. I don’t know why I didn’t find it sooner since I am a long-time fan and love all of your books, but now that you’ve got me you’ve got me for good. 🙂 Each blog post just makes me smile. I cannot wait to read Isle of Dreams! Maybe someday you’ll make it to Albuquerque (again?). Travel safe. 🙂
I ran to the map and was sad. You are not coming my way. But you do with your wonderful emails, books and Willard. Maybe you will come to WA sometime soon. I would love to win your book and it would be so much fun to have one of your wc brushes. I am a watercolorist and I just love what you do. Enough said I am off to clean as you have inspired me to do so. 🙂
Dear Sue,
I am soooo excited my book will be arriving soon. You and Joe have a wonderful and safe trip. I know you will have sooooo much fun!!! Hope you found “George Washington Spies….” at your bookstore. I just read it again as a refresher for season three of Turn. It is exciting to know that most of the characters actually existed. XXX000
I did, I have it! 🙂
Oh Susan, how you always make me smile! I’m also still sitting in snow in upstate New York (Ithaca), but I wish I could come to a book signing in the SF Bay Area which is home! I can’t believe there aren’t tons of girlfriends there😊.
I’m so glad you’re proud and happy-you deserve it! A movie-I swoon!
Xoxoxo,
Jena
I can’t wait to read your new book! Also, you blog inspired me to start my spring cleaning. Everything looks so shiny.
Have a wonderful time on your trip! I can’t wait for my book to arrive.
It is so much fun reading your posts–truly it’s a high point of the day–especially waiting for Spring! You are truly an inspiration. Love to hear about the kitties and Joe (and not in that order). Can not wait for your book to come out. I did read Fairy Tale Girl in one day–I just couldnt put it down! Thank you for the joy you spread!!!
I’m so excited, can’t wait to get the book! I fell in love with your artwork when I was first married. I found it in Country Living Magazine.
So glad you are doing so well with the books.
Thanks for sharing your life, your home and especially your kitties!
Safe travels!
How exciting to see your story come to life! I am on spring break this week and your books are at the top of my Relax and Read pile (after I finish my own tidying and starching :). A signed copy of Isle of Dreams would be a lovely addition to my favorite reads.
Congratulations on finishing your latest book Sue, I can hardly wait to read it. Any chance of you doing a book signing in Maine?? I am in Atlantic Canada but would love an opportunity for a road trip!!
Nancy
Have a wonderful trip. I know you will spread sunshine wherever you go!! Can’t wait to read your book!!
I wish you a very happy birthday and an equally happy year to come. I too spent today cleaning and enjoying my house due to an unusual April snowstorm. Love the clean floors and counters in my quilt room – now I can enjoy playing with my projects again!
Have a tremendous time on the road – I can’t wait to receive the book (ordered a long time ago) – hope it comes soon! Please be sure to post updates and photos as you an Joe go across the country. Safe journey friend !
P.S. (…not that I’m trying to get another chance to win a book or anything…) When do you think we will be able to pre-order your new edition of “Heart of the Home” book?
Oh I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of this latest edition.
The suspense is just killing me – LOL
And a possible movie, I can just imagine it!
Fingers crossed it all works out.
~Julie
Susan,
I hope your travels across the states give you much pleasure, moments of joy, and are filled with contentment. This would simply be a small repayment for all that your books have provided for so many years to your loyal readers.
Janice
Hello Susan
I’ll be looking in my mailbox now everyday watching for Isle of Dreams. I also have Fairy Tale Girl, but put of reading it until I received Isle of Dreams, I wanted to read both books at the same time. I am so looking forward to my Summer, reading your book on my front porch.
By the way, here in Chicago, cold and some rain mixed with snow today, awful.
I wish you and Joe a happy and safe road trip.
Louise
I’m looking forward to seeing you in Danville, CA…safe travels!!
Hi Susan I have been waiting and waiting for Isle of Dreams and now it’s almost here! yahoo! You are such an inspiration to me and sister we send emails back and forth with the latest blog and book information of you. We can’t wait to be the first to read this book. Lots of love to you and joe and jack and girl kitty from sherry in washington
Susan, what a very special person you are! I would love to receive your signed ‘Isle Of Dreams’ book. I always wanted to draw and paint but alas…I can only do that with fabric. You make it all so wonderful and gives me the chance to enjoy your ability. Thank you! Hugs, Jane
This just arrived and the colors are SO welcome since we are in the midst of a snowstorm.
Have a memorable trip!
Congratulations! I am “behind” and just reading my first Susan Branch book, “A Fine Romance”… but oh, I am enjoying it so! I read a little each night before bed, savoring it and then thinking happy thoughts before falling asleep. I am looking forward to your new book. Thank you for the housekeeping inspiration. It really helps motivate me for my own home. That is a very good thing.
Happy birthday! and have a lovely trip, you and Joe. Kiss the kitties before you leave and enjoy the visits with folks all over. What a *great* idea about the paintbrushes!
What a wonderful post…….and such great pictures and so much excitement!!!! I better get on the ball…..and get my act together with these new books…….love your books and sharings……..blessings and good travels…….
Hi Susan
Another wonderful, fabulous blog post** I can’t wait to get your book, or I hope I win one! either way I will have one to read. I know this weather is crazy right, I am in CT so we are getting the same weather as you. Loving all the spring colors trying to poke through
enjoy this beautiful day Susan
deezie
Would love to win a copy 🙂 So enjoyed reading of your travels to England…I am sure I would enjoy this one too!
Dear Susan,
I can not begin to tell you how happy your posts make me! There really is no one in the world like you! You are one of a kind! Thank you for always making all of us girlfriends feel like we live next store to you and are one of your dearest friends. Safe travels Susan! Thank you again….good tidings from Dallas, Dawn Jones
Just noticed there is a sweet smile on my face whenever I read your newsletter. I feel as though I am talking to an old friend.
Safe travels, dear Susan and Joe. Wish you were traveling through Indiana…..may just have to chase you around the countryside in hopes of catching you somewhere. With a new grand baby on the way and a graduation and a wedding and a big anniversary all this summer, we will be running in all sorts of directions, but along the way, I will be deep into your Isle of Dreams. Take care, dear ones.
I love you Susan for being a shining star that my sister and I turn to when things get a little frantic in our lives. We call you our “Happy Place” and when one of us says we are going there, it’s because we need a break! We read one of your books (between us, we have them all) or scroll smiling through the blog. Free therapy and an instant attitude adjustment! Thank you for being so wonderful!
Have a safe trip. Looking forward to reading your new book.
Hi Susan! Love this post and can hardly wait to see the book. Will there be a printable bookmark for for this one? I’ve been collecting your bookmarks (and books) for many, many years. Such fun! Have a wonderful trip.
Oh wow…if only! Count me in! Can’t WAIT to read your latest!!!
❤️❤️❤️
Godspeed to you and Joe on your road trip ^;^. As always we will be right there with you on all your stops and parties. Anxiously waiting for my book to come and of course your new fabrics as well. Forever grateful for your giveaways ! Thank you.
So excited for your new book, Susan! And another girlfriend and I will be joining you in Wilmette, IL at your tea party! Hurrah!
Dear Susan,
Thank you for the chance to win your new book. My last one was “Fine Romance”, so I am looking forward to delving into the two latest. I noticed you are coming for a book-signing to Memphis, and I am in the South, so…I have been thinkin’ about that.
Thank you for the domestic post. Spring-cleaning has been on my mind, and new beginnings, and all the hope that this season brings.
Happy Trails to You,
Rebecca
Hi Susan, Painting with one of your old brushes! Wow! That would be so cool! Can’t WAIT to get MV Isle of Dreams in my mailbox!! I have a pic of myself at the back of your van in SLO, too! And a couple of the two of us when you signed all of your books – of mine! Loved being there! Fun weekend! Have a wonderful birthday next Tuesday!
Oh my! A new book..I too have been mia for awhile and have missed my visits here. But I’m back and looking forward to reading this new book. Ive missed the blogs sooooo much! It would be icing on the cake if Vanna chose me for the win! Fingers crossed!
So excited for the new book! I’ve given each of them as gifts to my sister (which makes them gifts for me too – I get them as soon as she’s done!) Hearing about the curtains you made and have had since you moved to the Island made me smile. I love inheriting items from my mother and grandparents. Knick knacks, table clothes, furniture. There’s a warm fuzzy feeling I get from them that doesn’t compare to anything else. I think about all the people who used them before me and it’s like being wrapped in a warm cozy blanket. Such a great connection to loved ones who aren’t with us anymore. Did I mention I’m sentimental? : )
Fairy Tale Girl was such a delight to read, couldn’t put it down. Can hardly wait to read Isle of Dreams, I know it too will be a beautiful book. Hope your travels are fun and safe!
Hi Susan!
I LOVE seeing how the seasons are unfolding on Martha’s Vineyard, through your life, thank you for sharing, as always! Such a magical place! I can’t wait to find out how you felt about it, as your new life began there, many years ago (in the book, of course!). Spring down here in the desert of Arizona is in full delight- sooo many bloomin’ things, all over town, I especially love red yucca planted in long, sweeping swaths, stunning! But there are wildflowers like crazy this year, too, have you heard? God is the BEST gardener.
Can’t wait to meet you in person in Prescott! Safe and fun travels along the way to you and Joe! Oh, and who would you have play HIM in the movie?
These are the hard questions! 🙂
What a wonderful idea ~ worn out paint brushes and blotters, along with your newest edition. I’ve been waiting “forever” for this “Isle of Dreams” storybook. “Fairy Tale Girl” is still sitting out on my dresser in the bedroom, waiting for its companion.
We’ll hope to see you in Pasadena, CA, as we did last time you were here. Only this time, we hope to arrive early so as to see you up close and personal…not only through the cracks.
Thank you for all your beautiful blogs, and all your hard work for your girlfriends.
💝💕💝Carol.
Road trip! It’s going to be such fun seeing all the girlfriends. I’m looking forward to Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams. AND the 30th Anniversary Edition of Heart of the Home. I still have my original copy and can’t wait to get the new one, too. (Thank you for the ribbon in this one ;))
Have fun on the road! (At least the snow will be gone when you come to CT; we’ve had two days of the stuff where I am, along with sleet and ice, wind and power outages. In April?!?!)
I can’t wait to receive my copy of your new book, “Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams!” Have a wonderful book tour, Susan and Joe.
You’re an inspiration, so generous and such a great Girlfriend! Paintbrush, bookmark and personalized autographed Isle of Dreams . . . what a precious treasure. Love the vintage lace embroidered curtains, sparkling dishes and glassware (I have the same Johnson Bros. Bouquet pattern:) Kindred spirits–are you feeling it, too? It’s always so nice to come home to a clean house isn’t it. Love you lots!
Hoping to see you in CT at R. J. Julia’s !
I just saw your advertisement in Victoria (the magazine) lovely ad! I can’t wait for my book that I preordered! and if Vanna does pick my name, I can give that one to my sister! Thanks and I will be ordering the updated Heart of the Home to go with my first one!
Your posts are always just what I need to “come back” to the kind of life I always dreamed of. Kind of far from my reality but you give me glimpses of loveliness, no matter the season. Great Britain is kind of my isle of dreams. But there are so many lovely places all around the world. Enjoy your trip and be safe. Lynn
I Love to read your blog. It always cheers me up, when I need it. Hope you have a safe and wonderful tour.
So excited to get to meet you soon!! I’m coming to New Hope with my 2 sisters and we are surprising my Mom as her Mother’s Day present!! I think she will be tickled… 🙂 Safe travels.
So looking forward to the continuation of your story! Love the Vineyard and love that you made the East Coast your home!
What fun to watch this come to be! As an artist myself, I wonder what kinds of brushes and pens you use? You clearly work “magic” with them! Thanks for all the fun!
Road trips are fun. I’m like you though…my house has to be clean when I get back. Then I just fall in love with it all over again upon my return!
Enjoy the trip. I cant’ wait to see you in Hudson, Ohio in May.
Oh Susan, thank you for another delightful post! Soon you and Joe will be off on your travels- have a great time! Just think, this is your third book of a Susan Trilogy. I can’t wait until my preordered copy arrives!
YAY! Books arrived in California! The excitement builds! I’m going to get a nice bottle of wine to celebrate when the book arrives! Your home is so lovely, I don’t know how you can leave it, and the kitties! However, after your trip, it will be so nice to come home to! And how exciting that a film deal may be in the works! Alas, where are Rob Reiner and Nora Ephron when you need them…..well, Rob Reiner is still with us, at least. Wishing you all the best in the days to come, and a most Happy Birthday (giving gifts on your birthday — how Hobbit of you!) and a wonderful trip. And, best of all, as you put it so well, “Home, without a book to write, just a house to clean, a stove to cook things on, and a garden to dig in. ” That last should be embroidered on a pillow! Wishing your fair weather and smooth sailing in the days to come! And “Cheers” to you (glass clink) on your latest book!
Good afternoon Susan….I will be anxiously awaitin’ the postman to bring me your newest book. Just received my Tea Time magazine (my favorite) and seen your ad for your book. When will you come to the Mall of America?
I would love to receive a signed copy w/paintbrush and bookmark. Those would be cute in a frame.
Susan before you return to the UK, read Shepherd’s Life by James Rebanks. It brings the fells and dales, becks and forces to life. I’m saving to go back to the Kirkstone Pass and Troutbeck,Cumbria. We’ve been given a 50th anniversary trip to Italy by our children. Complete with villa, our children and an 8 passenger van. I’m taking palazzo pants and an art journal. I will sketch rather than follow them doing the tourist thing. I found just the right bag to carry all my paraphernalia at an antique store. Will be glad to hear about your trip as it unfolds.
So looking forward to this book. I have been a fan of yours for a very long time.
I am in sheer Heaven reading this blog this morning! I loved reading about your Spring Cleaning….and I did not know that about the starch, so I will definitely try it. I love your gorgeous curtain and linens…so pretty. The pics of Jack and GK made me laugh out loud because they are too cute! I think you may not realize that with all of the travel…..and I know it is a sacrifice to leave your home and island…that you are indeed making so many people extremely happy…and it truly will be one of THE main events of lives…like seeing the Beatles in person! AND you and Joe are staying youthful and peppy because of it all! 😊 One last thing…okay…two more…! THE BOOK! MY BOOK! Omg, I can hardly not shed a tear knowing its so close to being in my hands!! AND….YOUR MOVIE DEAL! I just know it will happen for you! We are cheering you on! So thrilled for you! Xoxoxoxox thank you for all you do and share!
Oh, Susan, so looking forward to this book! I know it’s crammed with loveliness.
Safe travels to you and Joe. Was so happy to meet you in Grand Rapids a few years ago with two of my six sisters. It was like meeting another sister!!
Love!
The books are going out! So excited!!! You have me all excited to get my spring cleaning done now too. I wish you were coming closer to where I live, would love to meet you in person. Next trip it would be great if you came up into the Pacific Northwest. Praying you have a wonderful book signing trip with Joe. Thanks for being a blessing to so many people!!! Hugs!!! Donna (Idaho)
Hey Susan,
I’m soooo looking forward to Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams! Your books are so beautiful and uplifting; I savor every page 🙂 Enjoy your big adventure across country and keep us posted!
Kelly from Eastern PA
LOVE your post … so full of Spring flowers! I am really looking forward to your
package on my front door and am really hoping by the end of my birthday month!
Speaking of birthdays … I am doing this with the Chinese tradition of wishing YOU a very Happy Happy Birthday and by the time you read this, it’ll be a week before the 12th … “better to be early for birthday wishes than even a day late”..my mother taught me well!! I wish for you and Joe a very safe journey as you visit all those book shops … take care … with much love and aloha, Evie in San Diego
Just saw on FB: FOSB…. your books are being sent off …. waiting anxiously anxiously anxiously!! Remember another Chinese tradition on birthdays: always have long noodles (for long life) 🍜🍝🎂 Xoxox Evie
How I would enjoy a personalized copy of your new book! And the little bonus items were a great idea, too. Hoping to see you in Cincinnati.😄
Susan! EVERYTHING is coming up ROSES!!! I am so happy for you and all that you do….Your home is getting all spiffed up for spring and your focus is on the next train trip and bookshop stops!!! I am THRILLED for you and for Joe. You book looks WONDERFUL and I cannot wait to get mine in the mail too….And for the giveaway, I would be so excited to receive another copy..Especially one with a bookmark and most of all, one of YOUR brushes….That would be the most fabulous treasure for me…As you know, I paint watercolors also and to actually own one of your brushes would be a major highlight!!! Please enter me and tell Vanna I will be waiting to hear with bated breath!!!! Enjoy your time at home, before you step on the train headed west…..Pet girl and jack for me…From my island to yours….xoxo
Spring is such a happy time! And what could be happier than planning another Road Trip to see you. ❤️
Started reading and absolutely love the white lacy curtains! Nice to see there are others that still enjoy ironing and starching! One of my friends said when she doesn’t have time to iron her white lacy curtains or doilies, she starches them and puts them in the freezer for later. Just thaw them out a little and ready to iron. I am so very excited the book will be here soon. Have a safe & wonderful trip. Can’t wait to see your posts because it’s like we’re on the trip with you!
Can’t wait for my book to arrive! I have a special place for it on my bedroom nightstand, ready to join its “sibling” books. 🙂 Enjoy your travels!
Ah, dear Susan, what a joy you are! You made me feel so happy, I had to go to YouTube and listen to Pharell Williams’ song, “Happy”! 🙂 You, lovely woman, bring happiness to so many. Thank you, and happy, happy, happy journeys!
With hugs from me, Rhonda 🙂
Susan, beautiful as always. You have been one of my favorite inspirations for me as I create my own little watercolor pictures. Thank you so much for a chance to win!
How happy I will be to set my eyes on your new book. So will several friends of mine to whom I have given your previous two as each arrived. A copy of your first one will soon go to the Bible teacher of my young lady-young married years. She will be a lively, spirited, vivacious, lady of 100 in May . . . I am not waiting until then to give “A Fine Romance” to her.
Dare I tell you of another book (by someone else) that comes to my mind every time I read your blogs. Margaret Elizabeth Sangster (1894-1981) wrote “God and My Garden” in 1933. Elegant, eloquent, exquisite. It’s not easy to find a used copy in good condition; however, if one can find a copy with the insides intact, it will be worth having and patching the cover. I will try not to gush, lest my recommendation be unbelievable. Please forgive me for promoting another author, but she has long ago been transplanted to another Garden, and you would not be jealous of her even if she still lived among us. In another time, you and she would have been exchanging personal letters of mutual admiration.
An extra charming feature is that in each used copy I’ve bought for gifts, there has been some wonderful inscription by or to the former owner–I have saved those along with the poems and lines of her own in the text. Not a trite word anywhere . . .
Always love to hear about beloved authors! Thank you Carolyn! I have heard of her, but I looked her up and read more. She sounds like my cup of tea!
Oh I can’t believe how long you will be away before you get back to your beautiful home and darling kitties…..perhaps one if your kitty/house sitting friends will send you pics to keep you happy whilst away!?! Do hope so!
The book looks beautiful and good luck to us all…hope to be a lucky six winner but just pleased you are generous enough to give so much away – regardless of who wins!
Looking forward to your visit over the pond to the UK….beyond excited!!
Love to you, Joe and the kitties
Karen
Cambridgeshire
UK
x o x o x
You are the most energizing person – one must smile and be happy when your mailings arrive! Have great fun on your book signings – so sorry that Washington is not on yourlist!
Susan, been coming to your island since I was ten…that was 67 years, ten children 22 grand children and one great grandchild ago. My daughter sent me your blog,and I relive the island through the pics and stories. Safe and successful trip! Never read your books, but on my list! Don’t watch Downton so I deleted a few blogs! God willing I get back to the island this summer too. Happy travels! Barbara
Hello Susan, first I would like to thank you for all your lovely artwork. I never have to rack my brain for a gift for my Mom. She absolutely loves all you do. I have bought every book for her and she can not wait for this one. I get her a calendar every year that she looks forward to and I have also bought alot of your other merchandise over the years. I personally have not read the books but I always love looking at the artwork as I am buying for her. Thank you again. Kelly
How fun, a give-away! I feel like “I was there” for the Cali section of the book, being your mail carrier in SLO before you left, so I am dying to read ‘the rest of the story’ (said in my best Paul Harvey voice) and hope I win. Cause I DO want the paint brush / blotter pages especially (thanks, Joe!) to cherish on my bookshelf with all your books that I have right here next to my computer space–oh yes, I see Summer, The Fairy Tale Girl, A Fine Romance , Girlfriends Forever….the other ones are downstairs in the ‘cookbook’ section of the library. Hmmm. Why is summer up here? Because it just LOOKS GOOD with all the others 🙂 So pack up the energy bars when you hit the road, you’re gonna need them to hug all the girlfriends lucky enough to have you visit them….(what happened to our Seattle visit? Sigh…) Here’s a virtual hug for today anyway ♥ and for Joe ♥ and for kitties ♥♥♥
Hello Susan…..so excited to see your blog this morning….and know how excited you and Joe are about your upcoming trip! Wow….you both have been busy bees around the house! It’s so nice to see and hear you tell about washing and starching curtains, etc. That is almost a thing of the past….very few of us still do it. It’s wonderful to have everything nice and clean and crisp! Take care…can’t wait to get my book……have a safe trip. Until later…. Loretta/Calif.
Hi Susan,
All those lovely girlfriend smiles? Thanks to lovely you!
All best wishes for more smiles over the miles to come. My smile will certainly be out there with the rest!
Robin
Susan and Joe, kitties too, can’t wait for your new book! I almost passed out when I realized I had to wait to read the next part of your life story! I lived in Atascadero back then and can so identify with you, the places you mention and on and on. I’m just so happy you met Joe and came together on the East Coast! I’ll be coming again from the Valley to see you in Morro Bay. Stay safe as you travel and see ya soon.
Your posts always brighten my day! Love your beautiful crisp linen curtains. You certainly are working hard to get ready for your trip, which I’m sure will be so much fun out meeting all of the girlfriends. Wish I was closer to one of the stops. Thanks to Joe for the fun idea of giving away your paintbrushes. Sending many hugs for a fabulous birthday!
Books look really good. May also have a go at starching. enjoy your cleaning Marie
Ahh, how thrilling! I’ve read your cookbooks (yes, “read”, which implies for fun vs mere “cooked from” which implies more pragmatism) since I was 15 — a long 20 years now! Your books keep getting better and better. I’m so thrilled for the most recent memoir. 🙂
It was wonderful to see the linens that you ironed for your spring cleaning. The first one looked like it had a tatted edge. Have fun on your trip knowing that you have done your spring cleaning and enjoy the book signings. The kitties will love you when you come home. It will be glorious when you do return! There will be many welcoming purrs!
Looking forward to seeing you California! Safe travels and many blessings to you and your sweet Joe!
What a wonderful moment! Really looking forward to the book!!!! Any plans to translate them in German? I think my fellow german ladies would loooooove to read them…
Hi Susan,
Great to get your blog this morning! Love, love hearing from you – you brighten my day.Best wishes to you for a great trip and book signing!
Vicki Kasper
Please sign me up for a chance! This cheers me up, even the faint hope I might win.
It is snowing in Maine now and all my hellebores are bowing low to the ground from the cold (the ones that weren’t snapped off by that ferocious wind we had yesterday) The poor robins are hopping along on the road on numbed feet, because the grass is all snow covered. I hope it warms up SOON for the birds (and also because I just bought pansies).
I have several of your books, and would love to win a copy of this newest one. When my girls were younger, we loved finding the Susan Branch stickers and papers at the scrapbook store! I am homebound now, but your books always transport me to wonderful new places. Thank you so much!
Such wonderful, fun books. Love.
Hi Susan,
I’d love to see a movie or TV series about your life. I don’t know who you would like to play you, but my vote (for what it’s worth) would be Jennifer Garner. What do you think?
Lisa
I love her!
Yay! The books will be here soon. I ordered two….one for me and one for my granddaughter, who turned 22 today. I gifted her with FAIRY TALE GIRL this past Christmas, so the new book will be just a slightly belated birthday present for her. Can’t wait for the story to continue. Thanks, Susan, for the enjoyment you give to so many.
Oh so close to having a copy in my hands to bring with me to greet my first grandchild the end of May! Love your giveaways! Thanks Vanna! And Joe for the nifty add-ons idea. Hoppy Spring!
And Happy Birthday to you Susan!
Now my heart sings – your excitement is so contagious and every word you wrote speaks and feels it. Thank you for this wonderful and so fun give away. I hope your trip is in every way as special as you are.
I have all your cookbooks from the beginning….and ever summer thAt I set out my front porch and get the pillows for the swing….I also get out my blue summertime susan book and read it cover to cover again……and that prompts us to get all my cookbooks out to go through…..and discuss “memories”…..thank you so much for that and look forward to reading my new one….
I’m so excited for the new book! I’ve been a fan since the beginning–your books have all of my favorite recipes and are my go-to for entertaining ideas!
Looking forward to you new book. I keep the other two by my chair so they are handy and I don’t have to look for them. It’s like having a friend near by all the time. Safe travels. Looking forward to you visiting Kansas City
Hi Susan, just read today’s new blog and just smiled. Everytime a new blog comes along I’m like a ‘kid in a candy store’….anxious to take it all in. I so love startched, especially older linens and through your pictures I could even smell them. Next are your Spring pictures. I don’t know how you do it, but again I am there taking it all in. Then the excitement you bring with your words…….love it all. Thank you for making my Monday.
I am so happy that you and your hubby are heading to independent bookstores on your book tour. Don’t know if you have been to two of my favorites – ‘Santa Cruz Bookstore’ in Santa Cruz, CA. My sister a former teacher works at the bookstore and lives in that city by the shore. The other is ‘Page & Palette’ on the shores of Mobile Bay in Fairhope, AL. Both of the stores have been family owned for years. I frequent both often (especially Santa Cruz…..thanks to airline passes) and know you and Joe would love everything about both the stores from the staff, the building and the cities.
Have a fun two months.
Godspeed 9n your new adventure! You’re post bring a smile always.☺😍