We’re getting ready to go. Of course, as usual when there are kitties and springtime involved, it’s a little bittersweet, because, like this . . . here’s what it sounded like on Martha’s Vineyard this morning . . . MUSICA 
Spring has sprung . . . Joe is outside planting things in the soft sunshine this very moment . . .
My kitchen windowsill is filled with
And the back yard is having a wedding all by itself . . . those petals fly away like confetti on every breeze . . . And the birds are singing . . .
And the ground is stirring . . .
And the lawn is greening up . . .
We’re in there!
The dogwood has tiny little buds, not like this photo, right now it’s just beginning . . .
We’re going to miss the bloom, but this is what it will look like in another couple of weeks.
We are preparing to leave home for two months (and believe me, we really do need this break in our normal everyday, work-at-home, butt-defining action, we are really looking forward to it!!!). We’ll be driving 8,000 miles and visiting 23 bookstores across the country . . . So my darling Joe (who has very long hair, looking extremely cute, and on his way right now to get a haircut) is loading up the van with a few extra books to bring along just in case we run out (like we did last time)!
We’ll bring all three books with us . . . and even a few Autumn books too. (If you’re interested to see how they’re being reviewed on Amazon 😂, you can start right HERE, and may I say THANK YOU, you sweethearts who have left reviews! Your word of mouth means everything, as it always has. We still have signed copies if you need them . . . thinking, Mother’s Day ♥.)
And while Joe is loading everything up our trusty Fine Romance Van . . . I am doing what I always do when we go on a long trip . . . trying to figure out what to bring so I don’t bring too much . . .
That’s a very old photo of me getting ready for a trip to California, trying on my Laura Ashley slip under my dress, and Joe has the camera! So right now there are piles of clothes hanging and folded all over the bedroom, everything written down as above . . . all I have left to do is to stuff it into the suitcases.
But first . . . we should get Vanna, and THEN, after she has done her thing, I have more surprises for you . . . to take the sting out of what Vanna must now do. BTW, for you Newbies, Vanna is our in-house “random number generator,” which is what they call the function on this blog that chooses the winner. We named her Vanna because, I think you’ll agree, it is a better than “random number generator,” and has a nice flavor of game-show hostess about it. Now she 
has become part of the family. On “work days” we let her sleep in our Peter Rabbit Room, but normally she, being a sort of Euro-trash, satin-slipper kind of gal, is off getting her nails done or shoe shopping, or playing tennis in the south of France. She randomly generates just for us, no one else, she is ours, and we love her because she is so wonderfully dramatic and whimsical. For instance, she came downstairs just now wearing her favorite lime green lizard suit, skin-tight, shiny with scales, perfect for slithering through 3,000 tiny slips of papers with your names on them. Also, she is wearing a bathing cap covered in tiny pink rubber points. What a picture! She took the Silver in the 2004 Olympics for the high dive, which she still does exquisitely. She is now poised like a luna moth on tip toes, standing on the very edge of my art table, UP she goes, swan like, perfect orange fingernails streaking down like flames into the vat of names . . . and we wait, while the game show theme plays . . . and we remind ourselves of the lovely parting gifts . . .
There will be three winners, and each of them will get a complete set of books, “the trilogy” (signed by the author, better known as Friend Of Vanna), PLUS a stubby overworked pencil, a used up paintbrush, and bookmark made from my paint blotter paper, all exquisitely drenched in the DNA of kitties, lavender tea with milk and honey, a few deep winters and crackling fires, and many, many daydreams .♥
Each of our lucky winners will also get a package of wisteria seeds from my garden. (Sad note, must add: Be sure to check your area about seeds from foreign lands, like Massachusetts, and don’t use them if you are somewhere like California, where seeds from other places could wreak havoc with the lettuce crop among other things . . . just bundle them off to a less exacting state . . . 💛)
And now, Vanna? The winners please?
Her flaming fingers reach out to me, with three tissue-thin pieces of paper in them . . . and it is my pleasure/pain to announce . . .
Winner number One is the much loved Sharon Civale (on behalf of her generous sister Jennifer Chapman)♥
Winner number Two is the adorable Shellie L. (the Shellie L. with “the little girl’s room” and the wonderful step-mom)♥
And Winner number Three, drum roll, is the luv-lee Suzy B. of Bamburger Family Fame.♥
C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S to our Fabulous Winners, and thank everyone who entered, one and all! This would be no fun without all of us!!! ♥
And now . . . oh, the unbearable weight of the waiting, zee lovely Vanna just flung herself back into the vat, scissor-kicking clear to the bottom, all elbows and knees bumping the sides of the canvas vat . . . I am so sorry because we can only have ONE HANDMADE VINTAGE QUILT WINNER, and I would like EVERYONE to win ~ BUT, Here we goooooo . . . the Grand Prize Winner for the quilt flapping in the wind above (the mostly white one) AND for a package of wisteria seeds fresh off my driveway where they bounced out of their little pods . . . IS:
Trisha . . . who we are apparently going to meet (as she wrote in her comment), along with her daughter-in-law, this coming Saturday our very first event in Plainville, MA! Congratulations Trisha!!!
FANTASTIC!
I’m so excited for our winners . . . AND now, I’m going to do all I can to take your mind off the devastation, with lovely consolation prizes and fare-thee-wells from me to you . . . I wish I could fix you all a plate of soft-in-the-middle, crunchy-on-the-outside, buttery potato pancakes, because I know that would make you feel 100% better, but this is the best I can do from here: Mark page 110 in Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams (so you can make them for yourself) ~ and do it with this . . .
A special Little House bookmark, a tiny, 9″ token of my great affection, from me to you with love, and huge amounts of gratitude.♥
Your sweet words in your comments have been my joy and my strength, and caused me hours of laughters and tears reading them . . . honestly, I know it probably sounds corny, but it is the truth. I can’t help it, I’ve become addicted to you, not just to you, but to us. Just click on that link above, print your bookmark on card stock, cut around the black line, and maybe even give it to all your favorite moms for . . .
Which is coming up . . . but since we’ll be traveling I want to make sure we get to celebrate this very special day together. So in honor of Mom’s and of Spring, I thought we might enjoy an early Mother’s Day and make some plans with the perfect MUSICA and my recipe for . . .
Delicious Chocolate Pancakes in honor of good Mom’s everywhere, and especially for this little doll . . .
She definitely is. And, while we’re at it, something else perfect for giving, easy, and just delicious for this time of year when the strawberries are at their very juiciest best . . .
And another surprise, because you’ve been asking . . .
Our Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams & our Girlfriends Forever Dream Charms have come back in! Yup, we have ’em. ♥
Each comes in a cello bag on his own little gift card. Unfortunately the manufacturer did not send us as many as we ordered, but I think we might have enough for everyone who wants one. 
Because nothing happens unless first we dream! Also, Janie made us some new banners, the most darling little Mother’s Day Banners, each with their own tiny tulip-decorated envelope and gift card.♥ And then, one more thing . . . to help celebrate the 30th Anniversary of my very first book . . .
It’s a new Heart of the Home Dream Charm ~ which is on order now. Little hearts of course, what else. We will let you know when they arrive at the studio! Pretty cute, eh?
Never stop!!!! As for fabric . . . I’m being asked if there will be more, and Oh, yes, there will be ~ all the whites will be up there soon, some are already, the Crabapples were the most recent addition . . . and more . . .
Labels, 3″ to 7″ across . . . with art and quotes on them . . . just went up in the last couple of days and will be for sale as soon as they are deemed okay by Spoonflower.
And the same with my “Little Patches” . . . each about 3″ wide . . .
as shown on this quilt made by Blue Ribbon Designs . . . That fabric will be available within the next few days also. And while we’re away, Kellee will keep on adding to my Design Library on Spoonflower.
One of our Girlfriends suggested I make fabric from those blotter cards I test paint and pens on . . . and I think I will! What a colorful idea! My kind of “contemporary!” Contemporary with heart.
And our lambs and other “Baby Love” fabric will go up very soon, too. We’ll do our best to keep you busy! ♥
I guess that’s about it for today . . . but if you didn’t get the newest WILLARD, you can go HERE to read it, and sign up HERE to get the next one . . . and feel free to sign up your beloveds . . . we’d be happy if they were our beloveds too.♥
May Day is coming, leave a flower on a doorknob or under a windshield wiper to surprise someone. If it’s a bouquet, a small basket is traditional, but old wallpaper, rolled into a cone, makes the sweetest Tussie Mussie holders for your arrangement. Read about the tradition HERE. And something else we should all do on Rabbit-Rabbit Day . . .
Those white flowers on a hawthorne tree are heavenly, the dew must really be something!
And now, away I go! We drive onto the ferry boat early Saturday morning for our first event that afternoon . . . I will be blogging and taking lots of pictures from the road . . . so check in and be reminded of how beautiful our country is . . . with possible “glimpses of heaven in unexpected places” as our Twitter Girlfriend, Bren, is wishing for us. we’ll drive safely and you do that too, and take care of yourselves. Come see us if you can. ♥ And, remember, we’re going to England in the fall, so eat right, take deep breaths of fresh air, park a long way from your destination, provide yourself with lots of Red Letter Days so you are rested and healthy for a wonderful trip, k? Love you! See you on the Mainland! XOXO
Congratulations to the winners, all of ’em! I hope you will get a picture of the grand prize with its winner! Wouldn’t that be lovelyy???
Thank you thank you thank you for the lamb fabric! I am over joyed, unbound, and fairly giddy! A special little grand will have a quilt (we call ’em lovies) soon from them! Love love love! Thank you, just in case I didn’t say it enough!
Safe journey, happy trails, have fun and be safe! See you in June!!!
See you in June Matty!
Susan, whether you know it or not, we are all winners because we have you to bring us sunshine and flowers and positivity and joy every single day. Enjoy your trip and I’ll see you in Denver on May 21 with my BFF, Lori!
Christy in SoTex
So fun Christy! Looking forward to it!
Safe travels! And enjoy every minute of it!
I am halfway through Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams and have had so many moments of laughter, along with enjoying your decorating adventures (your house was so adorable). Thank you for “taking us along” on all of your journeys.
Thank you for being there! It’s made me very happy, this lifetime of Girlfriend connection!
I’m thrilled! I just finished Isle of Dreams – looking forward to acquiring more of your books, just love your style, your outlook, your art… made my first Susan Branch recipe and it was divine! Rhubarb Crumble. I looked at your book signings and you will be right down the road at R.J. Julia on May 1st in Madison, CT. I just called and bought a ticket, see you then!
Wonderful Karen . . . see you soon!
Well, I can certainly see where you got your eyes! Your mother is lovely.
In my mail today was a copy of Vineyard Seasons that I ordered after reading Isle of Dreams. I couldn’t find my old copy and wanted to revisit it. Can’t wait to snuggle down and read tonight. xoxox
Yay Shelli, Suzy, Sharon, and Trisha!😊 Safe travels, Susan and Joe….and I like his long hair! Hubby and I will see you next Tuesday in New Hope. So excited!❤️ Now I’m off to check your shopping site to see if I can preorder the new charm. I missed out on the Autumn one the first time around and had to wait a year before they were back in stock. Hugs!
Love today’s post! Wish I could’ve been lucky and won something but I’ll keep trying. Be safe. See you in Kansas City!
Lovely blog, Susan! Christy is right; we’re all winners when we reach your blogs. Bon Voyage to you and Joe!
LOVELY! Everything was lovely and so exciting for all. The winners I am sure are dancing about with giddiness and we are all cheering them on. My favorite quote today was the one about “charm”. We are in the midst of a kitchen redecorate and I think that crabapple fabric will make the most darling curtains! Thanks so much for all you do for all of us girlfriends to keep the charm going in our own homes.
Love this blog! I am so excited about your trip, the fabric, the Heart of the Home charm, and the bonus prize of the book mark for all or us! Have a safe and wonderful trip and I will see you in Georgia!
Congrats to all the lovely winners and to you, SB, for all the lovely reviews and ratings everywhere!!! Something special is in the air.
All your lovely blooms made my heart skip with joy and cutie pie Joe’s long hair. What a looker, that one;) The best part was his smile. You can tell he is happy inside. Because of you of course!!
Can’t wait for the expanded HOTH and ALL those loverly fabrics and patches and labels. OH MY all the ideas in my head. I can’t remember if I requested this already, but I don’t think I did. Could the Martha’s Vineyard toile come in a different color like the old forest green it used too? or black? The cabernet color just doesn’t match my stuff:( it’s a big ask and I totally understand if it’s not doable. You don’t have to answer. Just putting it in the suggestion box. I will be thrilled with the tea things fabric I saw up in your photos Sooo glad for that one!!!
Here is a quote that doesn’t apply to you, but it was Twain and travel related and I liked it.
Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.
– Innocents Abroad
Too true!!!
You are going to have such a lovely time. I wish someone was doing a documentary about your life so we could see everything. I can’t wait for your updates. You are going to be so busy, don’t forget to enjoy it and ignore us for some much needed downtime!! And don’t feel guilty about it one bit. We get it!
Happy Mother’s Day to your Mother (even though she stays far away from computers) She sure did her bestest when she made you!!! Wish I could hug her and tell her how special she is too xoxo
LOVE MARK TWAIN!!!! Brilliant wonderful amazing man. Thank you dear Charissa! xoxoxo
I am so excited about becoming one of the volunteer staff at the Mark Twain Home and Museum in Hartford, CT. Get yourself here girlfriends!
You are on my wish list:)
Yes, agreed. We are all winners….we have the best girlfriends ever!! Safe travels sweet Sue. See you in June in Montecito, California.
P.S. I am halfway through Isle of Dreams. It is fantastic. And Thank you for sharing your Story. Your are such a blessing to us all. Hugs!
Debbie R from Valencia, CA
Congratulations to your winners…you are always so generous…that’s what I love about you <3
I will be seeing you in Ohio, along with my Dear Friends, Lisa, Sue and Cyndi! This will be a dream come true! Many years ago, I picked up a print of yours in a little shop in Ligonier, PA. I'm not sure which way you will be traveling to Ohio, but if you're are going anywhere near Ligonier, I would encourage you and Joe to stop. It's such a quaint little town. I just know you'd love it. You also inspired me to try my hand at drawing and painting at the age of 49 (I'll be 51 in August).
Much love,
Kim xoxo
Hi Kim……I miss your blogging! I always loved your posts!
Congrats to everyone who won this time!! Isn’t Susan so generous? Thank you, Susan for being such a beautiful light in this world! You have no idea how far your light has spread, and I’m thankful to catch some of your rays! Much love and may you have a blessed time on your trip!
Congratulations to all the lucky girls that Vanna picked–enjoy your new treasures!
Susan, your home is so lovely with such amazing flora surrounding it–I don’t know how you can leave, but I’m certain all the girlfriends, like me, are glad about it. Wishing you and Joe a joyful, safe trip. I’m looking forward to the pics and updates from across the miles both here and on Twitter. Happy to see Joe packing those extra books too since I’m on the tail end of your book tour, and I can’t tell you how thrilled I am about finally meeting you after all these years. While you’re away, I expect to be giving my sewing machine a workout with the new fabrics.
Safe and happy trails, my friend! xoxo
Maria
Hooray for the lucky winners. Happy Travels to you and Joe. Hope you don’t forget anything 🙂 I LOVE that lamb fabric with the yellow background. Looking forward to posts from the road 🙂
Thank you so much, Susan, for all you do. I finished Isle of Dreams a few days ago and I’m so sad it ended. I wanted it to go on! I loved it! You have a way of bringing out my feelings of nostalgia. Your creativity inspires me as well. Be safe on your trip. I hope to see you NEXT WEEK (!) in Hudson Ohio! Yay!
I too just finished Isle of Dreams, but it doesn’t end, now I’ll reread “A Fine Romance” and then circle back around again in the trilogy! It’ll never end! Susan, thanks for the great time you’ve given us through all your books! I’ll see you Thursday in Hudson. I’ll be with my BFF, Lynn. We’re numbers 68 & 69. Travel safely!
Christy Esse is correct – We All Are Winners! Enjoy your trip and safe trip back with all books SOLD! Regardsalve
Oh my goodness! I am not one of the winners but I am so excited by all the new fabric I feel like I’ve won! I’m so excited!
Safe and happy travels! See you in Austin!
Hi Susan!
You are so generous! How happy I am for all the winners! Congratulations! Have a wonderful trip. You and Joe will bring JOY in person to all those who are able to attend one of your book signings! Thanks for sharing all your springtime wonder with us. Everything is so beautiful!
Love from Texas,
Donna
How exciting! Such great news in this one!! First, congratulations to all the winners! Next, I ordered those charms!! I’m so happy to be able to do that! Just wish there would be another Fine Romance one, then I’d have all the ones I lost replaced! For sure, that Heart of the Home charm will be an order, too!
Definitely wishing you safe travels on this trip across the country and back again! What a marvelous time everyone will have with a chance to meet you! I’m looking forward to that Malaprops visit on June 27! Planning to be there!
Love the picture of your mother. Almost reminds me of one of myself, actually!:-)
Today is hubby’s birthday, so we’ve had a week of celebrating! Forgetting about that scale until next week. We need to enjoy cake and ice cream.:-)
Always a ray of sunshine from you; perks up our days! Thank you for that!
xo Nellie
That charm was rather special with the little bumps (hedgerows) but we are talking to a new manufacturer, so we may be able to do it in the future. Thank you Nellie!
Praying for safe travels! I will be seeing you in Asheville!! I am SO excited. Driving up from south Louisiana. I can hardly contain myself❣❣😘
Drive carefully, can’t wait to see you Becky!
Have a safe and fun filled trip. I can’t wait to see your posts along the way. Oh How I wish I could make it to one of your stops, but alas, life just seems to be so hectic and crazy, I don’t think I will be able to. Oh well, I shall live vicariously through you and all the girlfriends! You spread magic wherever you go.
I love the pictures of the dogwood. Spring is finally arriving here. We got a good soaking rain yesterday so everything is greening up nicely. I planted some happy faced pansies in my old wheelbarrow. I am still trying to get that baby quilt done. I have a deadline of May 15th. My poor finger is so sore from all the quilting! I will be sad to give it away, I have grown quite fond of it. I will tweet you a picture when its all finished. I can’t wait to get my hand on some of that fabric. I already have a few ideas stirring around in my brain. I think we should make a challenge on face book with other quilting girlfriends. we could have an on-line quilt show…wouldnt that be fun????
P.S. Your mom is so pretty! <3
That picture with those eyes looking back, just gets me every time. That little girl was MY mom. How lucky could I get?
It definitely would!!!
Dear Sue,
Thank you for the wonderful post; what a gift to us!
Rest and enjoy the fruits of your hard work.
I’m looking forward to seeing all the interesting things you will show us along your way.
Blessings to you.
Marjorie
Congratulations to all the winners this time around.
You guys be safe driving and have loads of fun seeing all the girlfriends on your book signing trip! Will look forward to all the pictures of the country and places that you stop to sign books!
xoxo,
Carol M
~What a sweet post!! My heart is full of happy tears!
Thank you dear Susan,for all that you are!!!
Wish you and Joe,a wonderful,safe trip.
See you in Pasadena, so looking forward! 🙂
~XOXOXO~
Congratulations to our lucky girlfriends! Safe travels, Susan and Joe…and thank you for all the goodies…off to get card stock to print Mother’s Day crowns to mail to my grandchildren to give to their wonderful moms on Mother’s Day…xoxo
Oh thank you SOOOO SOOOO much for re-issuing the MV charm!!! Been wanting it for so long…..Just another LOVELY post. CONGRATS to the lucky winners. It is a very special thing to win lovelies from the lovely Susan Branch!! Safe travels and I am looking forward to seeing you in Wilmette, IL!!! Whoo hoo!!
Susan, I will be thinking about you and Joe on this journey across our beloved country. I look forward to reading about your adventures. What a wonderful treat for those who can attend your book signings! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers~Ann
Have fun on your tour! I know you will knock it out of the park! As for me, I am really hoping that I receive your book for Mothers Day! Mary
Safe travels. Come to Michigan next time please. Can’t wait to follow along on your road trip!
Congratulations to the lucky winners! And, dear Sue and Joe, happy and safe travels … we all look forward to your updates from the road, and love to travel along with you.
Barb
Safe travels!
See you in June!
It’ll be an exciting but tiring trip! I’m sure you’ll enjoy every minute! Crossing the country like this and getting to me so many people must be quite magical!
While you are away, I might be visiting your Isle of Dream (I almost convinced DH… just a little more work and inspiring pictures!). He knows I’m an island girl… pretty much any island, they are all quite unique! I’ll have to read your book before I go! 🙂
Yes, there are lots of ideas of what to see when you come here in the book! Have fun, I know you will love it too.
Gosh…..I can’t even keep up with you, Susan, but it is sure fun trying! So much loveliness and happiness going on all over this place! I am looking so forward to the exciting months ahead….and especially over-the-moon that I will see you this Saturday on your very first stop to kick things off! May you and Joe have safe and wonderful travels from coast to coast and beyond! xo
Congrats to ”all ” of the winners!!!! Do enjoy your 8,000 miles ….
May the Travelin’ Gods Shine Upon You going and coming !! Blessed Be !!!!
Thanks so much for the lovely bookmark and yummy looking pancake recipe! I love the picture of your mom – so beautiful. I never realized how much you favor her. The johnny jump ups on your window sill reminded me of nature’s creativity -another “small” wonder. A very busy week for me as we head into the 4th and final quarter of the school year (2nd grade this year) but I had to wish you and Joe another safe and absolutely enriching trip. I will pray for it – really, I will. May everyone you meet along the way fill your hearts with their goodwill and care. xoxo
I know your wish for us will come true, thank you dear Carmel! Teach your children well! xoxoxo
Sue and Joe … May the road rise to meet you … May the wind be always at your back … May the sun shine warm upon your face 🙂 … The rain fall soft upon the fields … And until we meet in historic Prescott AZ … May you have the road trip of a lifetime! You deserve it! Safe journeys. Tea will be heaven on 6.11 ♥ xoxo
It will and I CAN’T WAIT, Mary!!! Thank you for all the work you are going to . . . you had me at Tea Party, but white bunting was the frosting on the scone!
Haha … frosting on the scone 🙂 You will love being a guest at a tea where your own recipes are served. Maybe we’ll sing “Be Our Guest” as you arrive … just like Mrs. Potts did for Belle. That was Disney’s 30th animated film. Might be a connection. Happy van packing! Let the journey begin ♥ xoxo
OH BOY!
I can’t wait either Susan!! Wanting to make sure where my daughter and I would be going, I recently drove by the beautiful historic home where we will be having tea and talking books. You will love it Susan! Thank you Mary! It’s going to be grand!!
We are all so excited about this! And right down the road from Blog Daddy too!
I hope he is doing well. Blogdaddy … we all love you! Bet you can’t wait to see your #1 fairytale daughter ♥ xoxo
I can’t wait!!!
Sniff! Oh, I am leaving for England in one week. Congratulations to the winners. Happy travels and girlfriend greetings along the way.
Bon Voyage Marilyn!
Congratulations to all the winners! I loved the first picture you posted of the Johnny Jump ups (weren’t they?). I adore them! Best wishes on the trip. I’ll be nearby if you need me. You know. Girlfriend stuff and all. Have fun spreading happiness and joy across our beautiful countryside.
Dear Susan,
My Honey, merowmie (aka Miss Naples Kitty) & I are crossing the country this weekend too. We’ll be venturing to our beautiful lake home in Park Rapids, MN for the summer. Ahhh… the scent of fresh lake, forest trees, & hearing the chickadees out my window as I work each day. I always look forward to jumping in the fist time of the year & just floating on top of the water.
We are leaving behind our beautiful Clearwater, FL, but will return in the fall… back to our powdered white sand beaches, nearly endless sunshine, dolphins & salty air. Can you tell I’m going to miss it?
Safe travels, Lovely!
Sincerely,
~ Barbara
Happy Traveling Barbara . . . looking good whichever side of the country you’re on!
Such a cheerful post…I’m so glad that I just saw/read it ! Spring is so beautiful…my favorite time. Have a wonderful and safe trip. See you in May in St. charles, Mo ( I think the 15th)
Can’t wait to meet you ~ ~ xoxo
Have a wonderful trip and come back to us safe and sound. Congratulations to the lucky winners!
Well, I’m glad…and sad. Glad for the winners. Sad it wasn’t me. But I love the bookmark. Thank you! The fabrics are adorable, and are making me want to sew (which never happens). The lambs are so cute!
Looking forward to seeing your photos of your travels, and I know you’re going to have great fun.
Prayers for a safe trip for you and Joe.
Blessings,
GG
And you’re off……!!! Trippin’ on down the road to discover the world!! Still reading “the book of a lifetime” and loving every minute of it. I have to pace myself because otherwise I will read it cover to cover in too short a time. Then I put the book down and throw my head back and declare “OH NOOOO! I AM DONE!!” Then the tears come and I throw myself on the bed! (well, if you can imagine a 73 year old woman doing such a thing!!) Hopefully I will see in Morro Bay. I wish you and Joe a fabulous trip with many happy memories. And THEN………… the BOAT and the TRIP and the ADVENTURES and GLORY DAYS! Love you both very much!!! Happy Trails!!
73, perhaps, on the outside, but 12 and perfectly normal on the inside! XOXO
Congratulations to the winners!
looking at the loveliness that is your home on Martha’s Vineyard, how hard it must be for you to leave there even for a minute.
the only thing better is getting back !
( i feel that way about my spot on the map…)
safe travels and best wishes for new adventures…………will be following along as you take us all with you (and Joe)
baci bella!
I have just finished reading Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams and wanted to say how much I loved it. I enjoy your books, blog and Willard posts and am looking forward to hearing about your trip across the U.S.A also your trip to England later in the year. I love a bit of armchair travelling and look forward to your next book, maybe about your travels to Scotland! No pressure or anything. Enjoy your journey have a fabulous time.
Congratulations to all the winners! I LOVE the fabrics and am going to order as soon as I can! Have an absolutely wonderful trip cross-country……..so many girlfriends are so excited waiting for your arrival!! You just have no idea how much we all love and admire you……………see you on Sunday in Madison, CT!!! Yay!!!
Perfect, see you on Sunday Ann Jane!
Congratulations to the winners. I live in Plainville too and will lunch with you on Saturday. I wonder if I know Trisha, could she be my neighbor down the street? Wouldn’t that be fun, I could visit the quilt.
See you Saturday; I am unbearably excited 🌻🌻🌻
Could be, I’m sure you’ll meet her there!
Congratulations to the winners. What wonderful gifts from a very thoughtful and generous hostess! I am so excited to get my book, MVIOD for Mother’s Day and The Heart of the Home too. And a new charm bead! Love it! Oh and the fabric is darling. So excited! I love all the new surprises. Well Susan and Joe, have a great time on your book signing trip. Wish I were able to go:( Be safe and thank you so much for everything! You are such a blessing.
Wish you could too, Stephanie, but I’ll send photos to the Blog and it will almost be like you are there!
Yesterday Stephanie and her daughter and I weeded in her garden and as I left I slipped a copy of MVIOD under her pillow (i read it first, MARVELOUS) and she will be thrilled as she has everything you ever printed, including fabric and has been a fan since day 1 ! Have a great trip
Stephanie C’s mother.
Oh you are too much Nancy! What a nice surprise…she is going to have a good giggle right then, marveling over her wonderful mom.💞
Praying for wonderful, safe travels for you both and hoping to see you when you get to California. 🙂
Wonderful lucky winners – it is a prize in its self that you get to deliver the vintage quilt and meet its new owner! Pretty special!
Dearest Sue,
Thank-you for the ‘outfit’ packing list idea. I can’t pack a suitcase without a list. I must be demented! Just a small aside…I suggested stopping at the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme, CT when you’re driving on I-95 just before crossing the CT River. I was there a short while ago and spotted her autograph book in a showcase in one of the galleries. I know you love beautiful handwriting so if you can visit don’t miss the gorgeous Spencerian dip-pen script in her book. They have also hung two gorgeous ‘Hudson River School’ paintings (Thomas Cole and Frederic Church). You could tour the house and museum in an hour or so if you boogie. You would love Florence! She’s one of my she-roes.
Thank-you for the generosity you show for your giveaways. Wow! Lucky winners.
May the bluebird of happiness and safety fly above your van wherever you go.
See you on Sunday in Madison where you will meet river people and ocean people! YAY! With all my affection, Carol from CT … tra la
I hope we have time . . . Joe has us pretty tightly packed time-wise. . . but believe me, if we can get there, I would love it! See you in Madison Carol, and looking forward to it!
Safe travels, Susan and Joe, as you cross the beautiful USA! Happy Spring!
Yay! So happy you’re making this “grand tour”…and so excited to see you in New Hope, PA!!! Travel safe and have lots of fun along the way!
Looking forward to seeing you in Morro Bay. Hope you have a safe, wonderful trip!
Thanks for another lovely posting. Bon voyage with your cross country — and back — tour! Looking forward to your postings as you highlight old favorites and show new experiences!!!
Enjoy your posts – even when I don’t win a prize. See you in St. Charles, Mo. – you will love Main St. there! Reminds me of New England – which I miss.
That’s what everyone says, I’ll feel right at home! See you there Kedra!
Sue I remember this being close to St. Charles, MO…..
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum
120 North Main Street
Hannibal, MO 63401
marktwainmuseum.org/contact-us/
I found an antique quilt on Main Street in St. Charles, MO. Loved it there.
Been there, Heaven.💖 But for anyone attending this event, if they can, they should try to go!
A lot of excitement leaping out from today’s post!
Congratulations to the winners of the books and quilt. Have a “wonder-filled” trip, and I hope to see you in Asheville this June. I LOVED Isle of Dreams! It brought smiles, tears, memories and inspiration. Thank you for finding and sharing our common “girlfriend thread.”
I want to share my love for May Day, as well. For years and years, I have made paper cone “baskets” from beautiful (and sturdy) scrapbook papers embellished with paper lace doilies, ribbons and buttons to fill with fresh flowers and hang on the doors of a few special friends and family members VERY EARLY each May Day. I love this sweet tradition.
Love that! It is a wonderful tradition. My mom had us running around our neighborhood doing it when I was around five with these pink wildflowers (I have no idea WHAT they were) that grew next to a nearby river.
Congrats to the wonderfully blessed winners! Will be praying for you as you pack and head off on your whirlwind trip! Oh my! Such wonderful new things! Thank you for the bookmark…adorable! And that little patch fabric! Will definitely check that one out! I don’t know how you manage to keep coming up with all this loveliness!? Do you ever sleep? xo
Yes, I do . . . it’s because of the 30 year thing! All that time making things adds up! xoxo
Didn’t win, boo-hoo. But I am enjoying Isle of Dreams immensely! I did find 2 more typos after the descent one someone else pointed out. Shall I keep them to myself? It doesn’t really matter. Your book is a total delight. Have a safe & fun journey. BTW, you look very much like your sweet mother Susan.
I found some too. It’s the nature of the beast I guess, handwriting things causes accidents!!! LOL. I’ll try to fix them in the next printing. I’m so glad you enjoyed the book . . . And thank you so much for that compliment about my mom. 😂
So happy for all of us, Susan! ♥ We have YOU! ♥ It will be such fun to follow along as you cross the country making so many happy hearts. Can’t wait to see you again on May 10th at the Tea Party!! It will be a truly lovely gathering of Girlfriends. Wishing you and Joe a wonderful adventure! Safe travels, dear ones!
Warm hugs,
Dawn (in Illinois)
♡♡
Thank you dear Dawn, I’ll see you there!!! I’m so excited, the clock is ticking!
WooHoo I was able to just now get a ticket to the tea too!!! So it will be so nice to see you again in IL Susan!!! And Dawn I love your blog!!! I’ve been reading through it today….instead of getting housework done!!! lol
So happy that you can come to the Tea Party, Cynde! It’s a beautiful setting for this celebration honoring 30 amazing years of Susan’s inspiration, love, and happiness!! ♡ What a magical gathering of kindred spirits it will be!! Warm, sunny thanks for your sweet words, Cynde!
Bon Voyage, dear Susan & Joe!! Safe travels!
What an amazing celebration of who you are… and all the goodness that you send out into the world!! Let the celebration begin!! ♡
It feels like a very quiet celebration this morning. Drinking tea in our hotel room, looking at photos, living in glow of yesterday’s signing at An Unlikely Story, not in a hurry at all (for a change) . . . just a lovely way to start the day! See you soon Dawn!
Susan,
Your last entry about May Day and its tradition reminded me wistfully about my sweet mom. She always taught her littles in 3rd grade about what they should do on that forgotten occasion. They would even sneak up onto her front porch and leave her flowers, too. As I type, the tears flow for all things sweet that are sorely lacking in our society today. With the thrust of testing today in school, we have lost the sweet traditions that made teaching such a joy in the early years of my career and my mom’s, as well. Thanks for the reminder, Susan, and safe journey to you and Joe.
Love,
Mame
I think we should teach them that anyway. When no one is looking. Those are the things they live with, just like we do, forever. xoxo
Dear Susan and Joe,
Safe Travels! We can’t be more excited that you are on your way. Looking forward to seeing you in Morro Bay. My girlfriend who lives there got us ticket’s # 100 and 101. We visited with you at Cayucos at the ever so charming and cute “Happy Go Smile”book store on your last visit and are so looking forward to this event. I just finished Isle of Dreams today. You are quite an inspiration Susan. And to have shared your life with us was a very generous and courageous gift. I think we all have come away with inspiration to do what ever our dreams are, no matter if we are 20 or nearing 60… You’ve given us all such hope for so many things. It’s hard to put into words. So, thank you again. I can only imagine you will be getting hugs from all of the “girlfriends” across the US. Hug your kitties……….they are so dear!!
Again, safe travels.
Cheers,
Jan from Northern CA
Oh good Jan! I’ll see you in Morro Bay . . . it’s going to be FUN to be HOME (the other home!) xoxoxo
Congrats to the winners! AND safe travels to you and Joe!
Thank you Linda!
Congratulations to all the winners I hope you all enjoy your wonderful treasures. Susan I just have to tell you I feel like a winner to with the girlfriend bead arriving back in stock. So I had to quickly order three. A perfect gift for a friend who is celebrating a milestone birthday in August, one for a girlfriend who is like a sister to me I can share all the happy and sad moments of my life, and well one for me…oh… I just couldn’t resist pink is my favorite color (lol) and the little flowers remind me of spring flowers and what a beautiful spring it has been. Your yard is looking so beautifully abundant of the beauty of the season. Thank you for generously sharing it. Enjoy your book signing trip and travel safely. I so enjoy traveling will love coming along through your blog.
I’m so happy we finally got them back and you are all ready for your birthdays, Margie! xoxo
Congratulations to all of your very lucky winners. I wish you God speed and safe journies. Can’t wait to travel along with you via twitter and whatever means. What an adventure! Love all that you share with us. Was reading last night in bed and it dawned on me, no wonder I love you so much, our lives are like parallel universes in so many ways. Like minded, kindred spirits. I suspect that could be said of all of us lovely fans, readers, friends, etc. ! We are of one mind and one heart. I have collected quotes forever. They are also one of my favourite things. Take care and have a great time! Come back to us safe and sound. xoxo
We are, I agree, kindred spirits. Parallel Universes. xoxo
Susan, I don’t know how you find time to blog when you’re getting ready for such a long trip, but I’m glad you do! I love the pansy pictures – they’re my favorite and I just planted some yesterday as we are having perfect gardening weather here in Pittsburgh. Thank you for the packing tips, I suspect you also overpack too but at least you’re organized about it! I wanted you to know how much I loved the last book but,sadly, I read it too fast. I loved learning about when you first came to the Island, all about your little house, how you made it through such a life change. What happened with Cliff, what happened to Pooh, what happened to the house… (I was still wondering about the house but that question was asked and answered here. I was very curious, and I hope you get the opportunity to get it back someday) When you make a change, you really make a change – leaving family, friends, home, everything familiar to you to come to the Island and start fresh. I loved your independence and the adventure of it all and everything worked out exactly perfect! I wanted to spread the joy so I gifted my sister in law and a new friend with a copy of Isle of Dreams. Thanks for the blog, the book, the free gifts, the charms, etc. etc. etc. Have a wonderful and safe trip and please plan to visit Pittsburgh one day!
Thank you back Kelly! I think I did most of it because I was naive, not quite understanding what it meant to move away so far, but it all worked out just as I think it was supposed to! Thank you!
Susan, I don’t think it was naïveté so much as strength and resolve and courage, and also, as my favorite Pastor Frank always says “you go nowhere by accident, wherever you go God is sending you. He has work he wants to do in you and through you.” You’ve touched so many lives with all of your work — so uplifting, creative, inspiring, joy filled, bringing beauty, positivity and most of all MAGIC to everyday. I am truly thankful I came across Vineyard Seasons many years ago on a trip to my tiny local library. Thank you again!
Well, I always felt my guardian angels were pulling some strings! Thank you Kelly! That was so sweet. XOXOXO
Congratulations to all the winners, how excited you must all be at seeing your names!
Thank you for the pretty bookmark Susan, going to print it right now, and call myself a winner too, as I always feel reading your wonderful uplifting blog posts.
Safe travels, enjoy meeting all your Girlfriends and keep us posted with all your adventures!
Love Gill from UK xx
I’m happy to hear that Gill . . . love having you here. xoxo I’ll keep you posted!
Have you the dates and locations yet for your U.K. trip
Not really . . . all except for one, our BYO Picnic Basket Party will be at Stourhead in Wiltshire, England on September 18 around noon.
Good morning!! Congrats to the winners! Way to go girlfriends. Love the fabrics. Beautiful Spring pics. I don’t know how you bear to leave it.Enjoy your trip across the USA. There are some amazing sights. I guess your reward for missing your Spring is you will get to see it blossom into Summer on your travels. Be safe.
Everything has a light and dark side, very hard to go, but look what waits for me! Plus then I get to come home! Thank you Deborah!
😊💖🌸💛🌷💚🌟💙✨💜🎶 Rise & Shine Our Sweet Sue….Good~Morning…Joining You This Morning With My Cuppa~Coffee Freshly~Brewed…Savoring Every Word….ahhhhhhhhh….Sip….Breathe….Enjoy….Excellent Musica….Gorgeous Art & Wonderful~Words!!! Congratz To All The Very LUCKY WINNERS….Thank~You Vanna! I Love Your Mommy’s Photo Sue…What A Cutie! (Like~You) 😊💖🌸 I Can Not Believe The~Book~Tour Begins on Saturday….Very~Exciting…My Bags Are Packed Thank~You For Bringing~Us Along! Sending Love & Hugzzz & A Little~Traveling~Pixie~Dust For A Very Safe & Magical Journey Sweet Sue & Joe…..xoxo Poof! 😊💖🌸💛🌷💚🌟💙✨💜🎶 P.S. Kitty~Kisses For Girl~Kitty & Jack….They’ll Be Safe & Sound & Missing You….Every~Day…….
Love having you AngieTink . . . makes for a safer, more magical trip! Off we go! xoxo
“Off~We~Go” Sweet Sue I Am So Ready…..Thanks! Yay! xoxo Poof! 😊💖🌸💛🌷💚🌟💙✨💜🎶
Angie Tink – YOU are a day brightener!
Wow, you’re in color now😎
safe travels 🙂 you and Mr. Joe are real troopers, going so far, for so long! I’m hoping to see you in Woodstock @ Foxtale in June…love that little bookstore…and congrats to the drawing winners…always a nice thing to receive something sweet just because 🙂
Good surprises! xoxo Hope to see you at Foxtale Sheila!
..good morning !! ..what a wonderful post you have given us !!.. congratulations to the winners !! .. actually, what has been said before, we feel like we are all winners just knowing you !..’so excited about your cross country journey you are getting ready for..and thank you for taking us all along !!..the birds are singing all over the country now !..what a great time to travel !..thank you for the fabric ( all so beautiful ! ), and the recipes, and charms.. I loved the photo of your dear Mom !!..yes, she is truly a fairy tale girl !!..take care, sweet Sue..you are in good company with your dear ” Mapman”..with love..as always..
Thank you Mary . . . xoxo
Dear Susan,
I have recently found, or I should say refound, your blog. I loved A Fine Romance!! I just finished Fairy Tale Girl, and am now reading Martha’s Vineyard. I really love your paintings, your writing, and the formats of your books. Have a safe trip, you and Joe!
Jennie Ambrosio
Congratulations to all the lucky ladies. Hope you and Joe have a wonderful trip Susan. Thanks for the recipes and also the sweet bookmark. I love the idea of leaving a flower for someone, might do that, but I think it might be a bit late at my age to start washing in the hawthorn tree dew in the hope it makes me ‘handsome’ 🙂 🙂 x
Happy travels!! Can’t wait to see you in Austin! Congrats to those lucky girlfriend winners!!
Xoxo
Lisa Hay
Wishing you safe travel and a succession of wildly successful events!
I had so hoped to make the signing in New Hope next month, but everything spun so quickly out of control (my husband passed a few weeks ago) it just wasn’t on the radar. I did order and receive the last two books though, so I’ll content myself with those, and copious amounts of good tea by way of a little self care.
Your posts and your work always make me smile. (Note to self: Visit more often!)
♥ Carolee
Yes, please do that. I am so sorry to hear of your loss, loss being such a small word for such a large thing. Sending you my love and blessings Carolee. xoxo
Thank you. ♥
Aww Carolee, A big hug from me I am so sorry for your loss My heart goes out to you xoxo Susan does make you smile and is a good habit to start:)
Carolee, my sincere condolences on the loss of your husband. God Bless.
Thank you. ♥
Thanks, and yes – both the books and the blog are so uplifting. ♥
ALSO, I forgot one of the very best parts! Thank you for introducing me to Beatrix Potter <3 I knew about Peter Rabbit of course. But the others, and her life, and the movie, are so wonderful. Mrs Tiggy-Winkle is my favorite! I call her the patron saint of my kitchen 🙂
Her life! Amazing, what she did, and how her legacy still blesses so much. I adore Mrs. TiggyWinkle too. xoxo
Congrats to the winners. Two months without the sweet kitties? Ouch. I just adore the fabrics and have been spreading the word. I dream of all the pretty things that could be made with these. Nothing better than fabric for all those one of a kind dreams. Travel safe!
Ouch is so right!!! Ouch. Oh well. I’m more worried for them than me. But it will all be fine. Because they actually probably won’t know I’m gone, and I am a grown up and can handle these things. Sorta.
Safe travels Susan and Joe!! Hoping to see you this Saturday!
Best wishes to you and Joe as you travel across our beautiful country on the Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams tour! We will miss you in New Hampshire, but you have spoiled us by having many of your book signings in NH in the past. Susan, the very first of your book signings that I ever attended was in Newington, NH for the first printing of Autumn, many years ago. It was so much fun!
Take care and enjoy the (long) ride! 🙂
We’ll be back Karen!
Congratulations to all of the winners!! Enjoy!
Susan, have a 2 wonderful 2 month trip across the US visiting GF and seeing our beautiful nation up close. What a joy it will all be to connect with friends and family. Please give BlogDaddy a big hug from me in Florida too!
I also wanted to share this wonderful tidbit from my dearest friend whom I loaned Isle of Dreams to last weekend. She has been through a very trying 3 years following a divorce and was in the process of trying to buy a house again and move on with her life. Things did not work out and she was so bummed out. As she has used your Christmas cookbook for years to delight her family with favorites, I knew your new book would be uplifting to her. Last week when she finished she wrote me that reading your book was uplifting and inspiring. Plus, as she sat on her porch with tea and bird feeders about, she loved the heaviness of the book in her hands with each handwritten page. She said the weight felt so reassuring in her hands as she turned each beautiful handwritten page. It was truly like a letter from a trusted friend who has been in her kitchen, the Heart of her Home, since the first publication back in the 1980s. When you grow up with someone, they are in your heart as the years pass. Susan, you “raised us up right” when we were young and first starting our families and traditions. Your inspirations and recipes became foundations in our daily lives. Now, all these years later, the kids are grown, lives have changed, but you are still speaking to our hearts and giving us hope, inspiration, and love by sharing your own pathways.
Your books, for some of us, are more than books, they are long letters from a trusted friend we have followed along with in books 3+ decades. Thank-you!!
I am honored that you would say that, Winnie, thank you so much for those kind words. You could never know how much they mean to me. xoxoxoxo Thank you!
Amen – Winnie – well said!
So very true, Winnie! Long, lovely, handwritten, watercolored letters filled with love and inspiration, sprinkled with the most perfect quotations… and tied with heartstrings! What a blessing to have treasured Susan’s ‘letters’ for half of my life! ♡
Loving this blog – a feast for my eyes this morning – a hyacinth for my soul… So in love with your BOOKS, recipes, artwork, FABRIC, friendships, our amazing MOTHER’S, your beautiful home on MV and SPRING (although we are gearing up for a snowstorm :- mowing one day and shoveling the next!) CONGRATULATIONS to the winners. That was so much fun! I am so excited to meet you in Denver. Safe travels and adventures. Be safe! XO
Hello…so very excited to meet you this Sunday!! Safe travels and have fun!
What a privilege is was to meet you and Joe!! My Daughter and I had a magical day because of you two!!! Thank you and hope you have so much fun!! <3
It was wonderful Kimberly, thank you for being there. I loved the Mother-Daughter theme that seemed to be going on!
God speed Susan and Joe! Have a blessed journey!
I know you will have a wonderful trip enjoying our beautiful country. We just returned from a 4200 mile, backroads only, trip through 11 southern states. The highlight was going to Sunday School with President Jimmy Carter as our teacher. When I returned home, your book was waiting for me and I am halfway through reading it. You are such a clever person and so talented, I love all your books. Have a good trip. Sheila
Hello Susan! Congratulations to those lucky ladies Sharon, Shellie, Suzy, and Trisha!!!!! Thank you for the adorable bookmark and yummy recipes!!!! I finally finished Isle of Dreams, and my mind continues to bounce back to the 1980″s and all that you went through. Susan, you are a miracle girl!!!! All that you endured, and still so sweet, even to Cliff!!! I almost fainted while reading when you went on that final airplane flight with him!!!!! I laughed, cried, held my breathe at times, ooooohed and ahhhhhed, gave imaginary hugs, and gobbled up each and every word, quote, and drawing you put on every page!!!!! A masterpiece!!!!! All the puzzle pieces where set in place, you just didn’t know it at the time! You truly have shared many lessons coming forth from your life adventure. Even if everything is not all right, you will be all right! I truly believe God rewards those who have endured (…suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope… Roman 5:3). You deserve all of your present success and all of the future success to come!!!!!! Wishing you and Joe a fun filled and safe trip across the country!!! Even though I will not get to see you this time (tear drop falling) your updates via the blog will keep me in-the-know! Also, I’ve decided to pre-order your Heart Of The Home Cookbook for myself for Mother’s Day (how could I not after reading all about it’s conception!) in memory of my mom, as it’s the 30th anniversary of her passing come this July. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING………HAPPY TRAVELS TO YOU AND JOE!!!!!!!! (I know your Guardian Angel and St. Christopher (the traveler’s saint) will be above your van the entire time holding you tight!) Bye Bye! (hand waving from Dearborn, Michigan!!!!)
I’m truly going to miss you Carilyn. xoxoxo
Congratulations winners! Oh my, your Mom’s picture is darling & I see darling you there too! Fun blog with all your updates, pretty pics, and packing tips (hope you still have your pink fruit shoes)! I thought seeing you and Joe – 3rd time’s a charm to join you…well maybe not…2 grandchildren graduating on same day you’ll be close by, parties on other 2 days you’ll be a little further away…couldn’t believe it! I’m ready to join you on your trip though, computer fired up, tea cup nearby, thank you so much for sharing your travels with us! Happy trails, blessings galore! xoxo
Oh, I’m so excited because I have my ticket to see you in Woodstock, GA! And I’m excited about the fabric, too, I’m going to be checking that site often. Have a WONDERFUL trip around this beautiful country.
I just finished Isle of Dreams! Now I need to go back and reread A Fine Romance just to keep the story in order.
I’m a bit sad because to see you at The King’s English in Salt Lake I need to have purchased my book from them (I was one of the preorder group and purchased my book from you). I don’t have anyone that I could give a copy to or I’d buy another. Sigh.
I hope you have a wonderful book signing trip and I’m looking forward to the next England installment!
That drives me crazy…they didn’t use to do that. Will they let you buy another book?
Elizabeth, perhaps you could donate the extra copy to your library? Just a thought.
Sure, I can buy another book or buy a ticket for the same price as a book.
On another subject, don’t you wish those lovely Laura Ashley clothes were still available and in style! Just remembering the passage when you wrote about the eyelet petticoat showing at the hem of your skirt. Nowadays I’m usually in jeans and fleece.
Our costumes have gotten simpler . . . but they don’t make the world as charming as some of the things from the past! Just remember Downton Abbey!
Congratulations to the winners of your wonderfull gifts!
Beautifull are the blossoms on the trees and pansies are one of my favorites!
Have a safe journey and looking forward to your next blog.
greetings,Trudy from the Netherlands
Congratulations to all the winners! Susan I hope to see you in Ohio. Have a great day and what a wonderful post- ps I have signed up for Willard 4 times and have not gotten it and it is not in my spam either.Any ideas Judy
Nightmare! Write to Sheri … [email protected]/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ and see if she can help. In the meantime, go HERE to read the last one . . .
Wonderful blog, Susan. So excited for you as you begin your journey. Wonderful spring sights and sounds will greet you all along the way! A bit under the weather here, but determined to be up and going by May 6 for Indiana — and then May 18 in KC!! Have a wonderful and safe trip!! Love the bird sounds! Our yard sounds like this early morning, too!! xo
Your blog is a lovely “bon voyage” gift- but from you to us!
You are just the most amazing writer-I can HEAR your excitement about the trip and oh so many more projects all at once, both in the blog and all your responses to the girlfriends.
With this fantastic trip ahead of you and all the other plans for the fall, sharing them energizes everyone and inspires us all to dream a little along the way.
Wishing you a fair wind at your back. Along with all the effort such a trip takes, enjoy the pleasure that you and Joe have rightfully earned as you and your fans get together in all of our favorite bookstores across the states.
Can’t wait to know how the adventure turns out! Much love and good wishes, Marty.
Congratulations to all the lovely winners!!! I hope that you and Joe have a wonderful journey, enjoy every minute. Your new books has been a delight to read, and I love pancakes anyway that I can get them!!! Looking forward to getting my copy of Heart of the Home!!! Spring is in full bloom here in Spokane Washington. The birds are all fighting over the birdbath this morning, bless them all!! Take care, dear Susan.
Susan, you are so kind to conduct the books, art supplies and quilt raffle.
Congratulations to all the winners.
I hope to see the winning quilt presented or on display while in Plainville, MA at An Unlikely Story for the book signing on Saturday, April 30th.
Our easy to carry woven basket fills in anticipation for our trip to Plainville.
A lunch to take on the road using some of your recipes.
Adding four of your books, each read at least three times “The Fairy Tale Girl”, “A Fine Romance” and “Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams” and especially your first publication from 30 years ago. One of which I hope to be signed.
My dear Husband alongside in the book signing queue, carrying the newest copy ordered from the independent book store as our thank you to them for inviting you to appear.
Each title beribboned with a memory maker inspired by your writing.
Petey II Queen Elizabeth II (found when searching for vintage linens) from A Fine Romance
A New England late spring bloom Tussie Mussie from The Fairy Tale Girl
Precious 100 year old baby shoe (my Dad’s) in remembrance of Agnes from Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams
I sent a recent note of congratulations and copies of the handwritten card (you sent in 1996 by mail) to the email address listed for feedback, but did not see a reply to email address.
I hope you were able to receive this note of appreciation for the 30 years of joy your books have provided.
If not, please know you have given so much to all your readers through your art, writing and memories.
Looking forward to more of your creative works in the future.
Sounds like my packing list! xoxo
Safe travels! I am SO looking forward to seeing you in Georgia in June at Fox Tales Books. I have been waiting for so long for you to come to my neck of the woods. I can’t wait to meet you and I also can’t wait to read the new book and see what happens next! You are an inspiration to me.
Yay! I hope you have a wonderful trip!! Can’t wait to read the updates!! Still enjoying all my memories from Isle of Dreams. Might just be needing to purchase some of that fabric one of these days!!! Love the beautiful spring pictures!!!
Have a wonderful trip! See you in Pasadena at Vroman’s!