Beautiful cool morning here, quiet, foghorn and boat whistle . . . I’m in my studio, listening to the birds drinking my first cup of tea … How are you? I’ve been missing you! This post is a book, prepare yourself, go get tea and get comfy, while I rev up the MUSICA ….
Joe and I left home for our cross-country book tour on April 30, and last Sunday, we drove off the boat and made our way through the familiar streets of home, and finally, into our own driveway, with 9,800 brand new miles on the Fine Romance Van ~ and wonderful memories of an amazing trip we will never forget.
First thing we did was hang our 4th of July flag, and ever since then we’ve been unpacking, stepping over piles of stuff (and THIS ⬇️ was just the beginning!),
Taking naps💤, walking the dirt road through the woods to the sea, shaking road noise out of our heads (it’s like the rocking you can still feel after getting off a boat), collapsing boxes, rearranging, cleaning, making lists, filling the fridge with deliciousness🍒🍊🍓🍉, and putting our house back together.
We couldn’t wait to get into the garden, trimming back dead things and filling in the dark spots with blue and orange flowers and peach Brandy roses,
Because, after all, first thing’s first. Ahhh dirt. How I love thee. Pure road-noise expunger.
And tomatoes and marigolds and roses and lots of other things . . . it’s July, the Island is in bloom, green and lush . . . and we can’t let this season escape us!
I put out my favorite garden decor . . . I even had him at Holly Oak . . . he seems to feel a lot like I do about life.💞
Flowers accidentally broken off during planting . . .
Come inside for the little vases . . . 
This is what I call bang for the buck, takes less than a minute to pop a flower in there, easy to change, and looks just wonderful ~ perks up everything! Even the Queen is enjoying it!
But mostly, it’s undivided attention for you know who! We unload the car and Jack makes himself King of the Mountain. Who? he asks looking at me with wide-eyed innocence, What did you say your name is? He might not recognize me, but I’m sure he recognizes the camera.
The children. Don’t they look happy? LOL. I look in vain for a change of expression. But no. It’s just me. I’m the only one doing the happy dance. They keep their feelings buried deep inside. But I know they’re there.
Jack was on the ironing board in front of the kitchen screen door, watching the world go by when I came in. I walked up very slowly and reached out, he 
sniffed my hand, then furrowed his forehead with quizzical eyes and sniffed me again, what could this be? With each sniff, he seemed slightly more interested ~ that’s the best I seem to get from this puff ball that I adore from the tips of my toes to the ends of my hair! But for me? No problem. I touch foreheads with him, I circle him in my arms and whisper sweet nothings in his ear.
I pick her up and cradle her in my arms like a baby and walk around the house rocking her and cooing to her . . . She’s 15 years old now . . . I always worry about her when I leave the house. She never likes it when I’m away. And shows it by not eating. Very scary. Do I go or do I stay. But ever since I walked through the door she has been STUFFING herself, 2 or 3 cans a day! Plus taste treats.
And here was my first view of the house from the car window as we were turning to back the van into the driveway. The excitement was tangible. Opening the car door, putting foot on terra firma, getting out of the car, was surreal. It all smelled exactly the same. Mixture of boxwood, linden trees, and ocean air. The house has been here since 1849. Nothing about it had changed. My house since 1989. 😘
But before I go on with the future, and all the news I’d love to share, and will, when I can, I need to celebrate a little more of the recent past . . . this book tour to celebrate the completion of this … my memoir trilogy of books. 
Four years of concentration (or something like that) to write the story of my first little house on the Island where I tried so hard to figure out who I was and how to make my dreams come true, and when the writing and watercolors were all done . . . for better or for worse . . . there was a reward:
R O A D T R I P !
I chronicled about half of it in the last post, so we’ll start here, with sweet kitty “Sasha” on top of some of the art binders on a shelf above Kellee’s desk at my Studio in California. It was good to be at our other-coast “home” and reconnect with our faraway friends and family, and meet our wonderful west coast Girlfriends.
And see my garden out there . . . and just settle in for a week after a month of serious country-crossing to get here . . . Seeing this photo makes me think of changing my Vineyard garden from blue and orange back to lavender and pink next year . . .
Loved meeting my good friends for lunch, darling Elizabeth on the left, her sweet aunt Marion and dearest Diana (Elizabeth’s cousin, and daughter of Marion), in Danville California, perfectly apropos because almost every bit of this book tour has been a family affair 👩❤️👩 . . . sometimes mine but for sure, everyone else’s! Moms and daughters, grandma’s and granddaughters, husbands and wives, sisters and best friends, aunts and nieces have all come to the book signings together . . . and I have to say, it was a total Love Fest! Right? I saw lots of YOU there, was it NOT a Love Fest??? Oh it was!
Speaking of which, for starters, here’s Aunt Susan with her two beautiful nieces, Karis and Trisha, in Morro Bay, California. Love fest.
Karis was there with her husband Henry, and this little doll, the newest addition to our family, Xavier ~ I’m his great aunt, and he is even cuter in person, if you can imagine that! He’s the joy of so many people’s lives!
And there’s Kellee and Sheri from the Studio on either side of me, plus, my best friend Diana (if you’ve read my last three books you know all about Diana💞), and Bonnie who also works at the Studio during moments of supreme emergency (like when books come in and we need strong hands and good hearts to help out 📚). They were my perfect welcoming committee for this event, which was also a benefit for the San Luis Obispo Women’s Shelter (thanks to the great energy of Joanne and Linna at Coalesce Bookstore). 👏
This was on the wall where I gave the talk and did the signing . . .THINK! Is it kind? Good advice, don’t you think?
I have to mention, I could not have done any of this without my beloved intrepid pathfinder, guardian angel extraordinaire who is true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind 💖.
One by one, I got to meet and shake hands with all our Girlfriends who came to Rakestraw Books in Danville, CA … And this, as you see it here, was how it was everywhere we went. Roomfuls of happy, interesting, funny, friendly, kind, people, moms, sisters, best friends ~ if they came as a stranger, they went away as a friend.
Mom and daughters and the Fine Romance Van featured as photo bomber!
The line kept going, we took tons of photos, signed lots of books, and…
By the time we finished, it was dark outside!
Our girlfriends are so cute!
The smiles never ended . . .
I think you can see why we were honored to be there . . .
Mostly Joe took the pictures, but every so often the tables were turned. He loved meeting everyone as much as I did . . . he was always roving around the line where there was always a buzz of talk and laughter I could hear from my seat at the table.
But then, once more, it was time to move on, and look, the California fog is rolling in . . . all those old volcanos are peeking through . . .
It was a constant change of scenery as we traveled from place to place across our beautiful wonderful country full of good and kind faces . . .
See what I mean . . . this is Pasadena, at the wonderful Vroman’s Bookstore where my grandma used to shop! If you ever need a suggestion for a wonderful new book to read, your Independent Bookstore will send you in the right direction! That’s what they do. The caring human touch. Always a good thing.
It would take several blog posts to show you how much fun this was. See the girl in blue standing up in the back, almost in the middle? That’s Kris, I went to high school with her! See what I mean? And I got to meet everyone here!
Mom’s and daughters . . .
And whole families!!!
And husbands and wives.
The guys, I have to say, were a blast! Funny! One thanked me for being his wife’s therapist! He thought the price of the books was a deal! LOL!
I could see “guardian angel” in their eyes.
While waiting, these two made posits to commemorate the end of the long line, and those posits are now in my diary. Kind of what Joe and I are saying to each other now! “We did it!”
We hated to leave the ocean-views, brunch-with-wine, and joie de vivre mentality of Southern California . . .
But onward and upward . . . we were people on a mission. I thought you might like to see how we packed. There is method to this madness, never fear. Two ice chests in the Fine Romance Van, one on the floor between our seats where I could access it anytime, and another one in the way-back for staples and an extra bag of ice . . . plus, we had my favorite earl grey and lavender tea, the tea kettle, cups, spray starch, laundry soap, a zillion quarters for the machines. No stone unturned, we had it all!
Hither and yon we go. At this point heading through Arizona, and for the following month we never saw the underside of 90 degrees again! One time, in Texas, we got in the car in 
the morning and the car thermometer registered 132 ridiculous degrees!! You know how we (in Northeast USA) “warm up” the car in the winter? Well, out here, we’d go to the car early to turn it on to ice up the air conditioner!!! You go from freezing-cold, air-conditioned hotel room to the hideous heat, hurry to the car, and just about the time you get there, you begin to thaw out. In the nick of time, you jump in, slam the door, and ahhhh, saved by the bell.
HOT. But interestingly, the desert was “in bloom.” If that is what one wishes to call it.
But then we went to the High Desert, to Prescott, Arizona for a lovely tea party . . . here is just a tiny hint of the deliciousness that awaited us! They made them!!! And they were gorgeous!
Clotted cream and jam and homemade scones! And sandwiches too!
They set up tables on the lawn of a beautiful old house ~ it was a tea-party, fund-raiser, book-talk and signing hosted by one of our Girlfriends (up there on the porch with her husband), Mary Heiland, benefitting the local library and Hospice . . . and it was so beautifully done! Flowers and party favors on every table.
Everything was in bloom . . . still warm in the mountains but with a lovely breeze through the draped bunting (white, like on Downton Abbey) and the weeping willow that gave the house its name, Willow Tree Manor, swayed gracefully in the wind . . .
They welcomed us, and everyone, royally . . . (and gave us the sign to take home! It’s already hanging above the door in the wood room!) …
Hats! (Hi Dianne, Bev, & Merci!)
These girls knew how to celebrate . . .
Much as I loved ALL the hats, this baby-pink one had to be the winner . . . might have had something to do with that little face . . .
On each side of this group is a Mary . . . these two Mary’s are the best friends who are responsible for the gorgeousness of this party ~ and those are their beautiful daughters who’ve known each other all their lives. We met both Mary’s at the Madonna Inn in California about three years ago, where there was a drawing to see who would be our dinner partners for that evening. Mary’s name was drawn, and of course, she brought Mary! And now here we are, experiencing one of the tea parties they have each year ~ pure serendipity! I think this was their 23rd!
This is Mary Heiland’s (the Mary on the left) 97 year-old-mom, and so now you know where this family got its beauty . . .
Here’s the winner . . . both for the auctioned-off quilt that made $600 for Hospice (whoever bid on it, gave it to her, I told you, the most wonderful people were there) AND the hat ~ I think she was having a red letter day!
And to complete my red letter day, I received this!
To put in my keepsake box along with this . . .
Joe has gotten so GOOD at taking pictures of the things he knows I’ll want to see when we get back to the hotel and I get my hands on the camera again! I get to see everything I missed!
And then, down through southern Arizona, near the Mexican border and miles and miles and miles of beautiful Texas . . . wildflowers and desert and hottest heat in the world . . . Too hot to stop and shop in Fredericksburg … so now we have to go back! Need to shop at Magnolia Pearl! Too cute to miss.
A little intimidating to make this left turn, but we survived . . . (yikes!).
We loved every mile of it . . . (look at the little orange sign on the left)
And we knew we’d entered the weird world (their words not mine)) of Austin when the first thing we saw was this. It is a bar that moves as the customers PEDAL , it has no engine . . . it drove across the road while we were sitting at the light ~ and I scrambled for the camera! We don’t have one of these on the Island.
We went to dinner at the historical Driskill Hotel and sat directly across from that romantic little table on the left (pushed together for a larger group) where President Lyndon Johnson proposed to Claudia Taylor, better known as Lady Bird, on their first date!
She made hime wait a full six weeks before she accepted! Ahhhh, young love. 💘 Later the people for whom that long table was reserved arrived . . . a woman sat in Lady Bird’s seat (as I imagine it would have been) with her back to the wall, her partner was across from her in the chair and it was ALL I could do not to rush over there and tell them DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOU’RE SITTING? Joe was a little embarrassed when I asked the waiter to tell them. I couldn’t help it. They had to know. I would want to know, wouldn’t you???
And now, here we are at BookPeople in Austin, with my Twitter Girlfriends! Wonderful to finally put the real people with the names!
And dearest Texas Girlfriend from many years ago, whose name I just love to say in my fake Texas accent, Mary Alice Yelverton (try it in your fake Texas accent and you’ll see what I mean, even better if the accent isn’t fake!), 97-years-young and still writing her column for the Boerne Star Newspaper, which is how we met, when she called to interview me for her paper because she liked my cookbook Heart of the Home! We go way back! I was so touched that she came.
And another warm welcome from a room full of kindred spirits! I have never felt so loved. You girls, you should know, it was heaven for me.
One of our long time Girlfriends, very creative Rachel, made packages of cookies for everyone at the Austin Book People signing from my recipes . . . that’s Annie Hall’s Butter Cookie made into Texas cutouts, and my mom’s Potato Chip Cookies were there too, which is also one of my favorites! It’s on page 209 of The Fairy Tale Girl, but in case you don’t have it yet . . . here you go!
That’s our cutely dressed Girlfriend Kat on the left, and there’s Rachel with a to-go box of cookies on the right… xoxo
Different kinds of cookies, but still very sweet: mom’s and daughters,
Fairy Tale Dudes and their Fairy Tale Girls . . .
It was a long trip, but look at these smiles, how could I not love it? My feet were about 3 inches off the ground the entire time!
We had a surprise, unscheduled, “pop-up” book signing at The British Emporium in Grapevine Texas ~ mainly so I could shop there! I’d heard about this wonderful store for years, and there we were, so close, how could we not stop! So we called them and told them we were coming, and they invited a few of their customers for an impromptu signing. Also I wanted to THANK them for selling so many copies of A Fine Romance. I did a whole lot of Christmas shopping there 🇬🇧😃 and signed a bunch of books to leave behind! And then, it was time for . . .
Tennessee! Off to Memphis and the Booksellers at Laurelwood.
And don’t think that we didn’t keep ourselves correctly hydrated throughout our trip!! That’s not Coke, it’s just ice, into which I poured fresh cold water from our cooler, with just a splash of lemonade to keep it interesting.
And the food was really good everywhere we went, look at this crisp, icy, crunchy iceberg wedge with all the trimmings. Just delicious. We also discovered that Wendy’s makes a perfectly wonderful fresh salad with not a limp bone in its body. We became road food aficionados!
In Memphis we had breakfast at this famous (it’s been in lots of movies) old Arcade Restaurant . . . (that’s not our suitcase back there, we kept ours in the van!).
… Where nothing’s changed since the 1950s.
And where, for the first time, I was able to sit with the new book and look through every page. Of course, there’s Joe with the camera.
So I showed him some new pages. I really love this book. It was fun to do it, like remembering all the years it took me to get the nerve to write it in the first place . . . and giving it a brand new outfit with new pages and perky new art.
Are you sick of this yet? I hope not, but if so, stop now and save some for later! So, anyway, Here I am at Channel 3 in Memphis getting ready to go on TV. Don’t I look relaxed? Well, I’m not. In case you missed it, here it is.
And later that night, here I am with such hardworking girls, Nicole and Macon, (who treated every one of their customers like they were the most important person in the world) at The Booksellers at Laurelwood. I felt so proud to be at all of these independent bookstores, proud of how hard they’ve worked to keep afloat in these changing times, and proud of everyone who supports them.
Were you there? Can you see yourself . . . ? Wasn’t it fun?
Here’s another angle . . . See the dark-haired lady way back sitting next to the woman in the black top? See her necklace . . . I told her it was cute . . . scroll back up and you’ll see that she GAVE it to me!!! And she did it through the bookstore owner so I couldn’t even say no! She was already gone! So I had no choice! And of course, I love it!
More wonderful Girlfriends . . . I would speak for a while, then I’d take questions and that was my favorite part because my Girlfriends ask the best questions!
Smiles I loved meeting . . .
It was a pure treat and the pleasure was all mine!
Then through the cornfields . . . to Woodstock, Georgia ~ close to Atlanta, to an event put on by FoxTale Book Shoppe. Talk about Southern Hospitality!
You guys tried to make me cry by giving me a standing ovation!!!! I’m sorry, but this was verklempt-ville for me😂.
Love you!
Cutest things, and a black beret in honor of Joe!
Joe took perfect pictures of these three . . . adorable . . .
Baby sister is feisty!
But big sister wins for most adorable shoes and socks!
Bambi’s enthusiasm could seriously move the world! And the world could definitely use some moving! Believing there is hope for the world (as Gladys Taber said) is a way to move toward it. Believe and Vote.
Everyone . . .
Was just adorable. And I . . . was just lucky.
And in Woodstock we went to Starbucks to get the Sunday New York Times because that’s what we always do on Sundays on the road, and saw this for the first time . . .
In print! In the New York Times Book Review for the first time in my life. (See? Number 3 under Travel! That’s us Girlfriends. Because it’s your wonderful word-of-mouth and your kind comments on GoodReads and Amazon and to each other that made this happen! You have rocked my world! I’m eternally grateful.💕)
Those customers at Starbucks were just LUCKY I didn’t run to every table screaming because I definitely wanted to. I know I did leave the ground for a few seconds. Then Joe and I high-fived and stood around glowing (hearts leaping) wondering when someone would come up and ask us why we looked so happy while we waited for our iced mochas! This kind of thing doesn’t happen every day . . . and I have to say, our whole trip was like that, just amazing, profound in its own way, lengthwise, and spirit wise, not to mention event-wise and beauty-wise.
And on our way again, to Malaprops Bookstore in BEAUTIFUL Asheville, North Carolina. You really have to go see that charming city . . . 💖 You will love it!
At Malaprops they did some sort of magic, and moved all the books and displays to the side to fit all the Girlfriends in. Their shelves must be on wheels, because when we left, this room looked NOTHING like this! Every chair was folded up and gone, and the space was filled with rows of bookshelves!
Where there’s a will, there’s a way. 👏
Hello everyone! 💏
As usual, lots of fun in the line!
The woman on my right is a star of my Twitter world, @NellieBragg, with her husband and their daughter . . . They brought us a quart of fresh picked blueberries from their garden ~ the best we ever tasted and provided us with a healthy breakfast for the rest of the way home!♥
Here’s the funny Fairy Tale Boy who thought I was a good therapist! And his darling wife Becky who made us a teacake and embroidered this precious thing . . .
which is now hanging in our guest bathroom! (Teacake is LONG gone, YUM! 😎)
Thou shalt not covet. I tried to remember that when looking at that HAT with the little pink flowers. Covet-Ville USA. And more Fairy Tale Girls and Boys!
Daughters and Moms, I felt so honored!
And now hill and dale, from North Carolina to New Jersey . . .
Past fields of wildflowers . . .
Little churches . . . houses and barns . . .
with country roads we’re just dying to go explore . . .
We got off the main roads as much as we possibly could . . . no traffic, could hear birds, see people, very gentle way to go . . .
It took a little more time, but it was so worth it . . .
Here’s a little bit of the Blue Ridge Parkway . . . 400 miles of this beautiful country.
With views to everywhere . . .
We’d leave early mornings for the long drives . . .
And were rewarded with amazing sunrises . . .
And lovely roadside views, truck free . . .
To famous Bookends Bookstore in Ridgewood, New Jersey with store owners Pat and Walter Boyer who were SO MUCH FUN!
where I got to meet another lovely crowd of Girlfriends . . .
and Boyfriends with good attitudes . . .
And now it was starting to get a little bitter sweet . . .
Because we were getting so close to home, and this had been so fun, yet we were getting close to HOME, and I really needed to be home . . . with only one more stop to go!
A welcome home party at wonderful Titcombs Bookshop on Old Cape Cod. It was 4th of July weekend. You have to drive over a bridge to get to Cape Cod and of course traffic was backed up, because that’s the gateway to the Islands, Provincetown, and Hyannis and all the lovely old towns on the Cape . . . I didn’t mind a BIT, it was the best traffic jam, I enjoyed every moment of inching toward home!
My camera tried to break right about here (like saying my hand fell off! Still dealing with it!) . . . But it was a gorgeous afternoon, and look, there’s Elizabeth . . . she, and everyone who works at Titcombs, was wearing a beret on this way too hot day, just because they are darling. I left one and a half billion signed books here . . . in case you are looking for Christmas Presents or any other thing!
And now, the end of this manifesto, and the beginning of the next phase of life, which is obviously going to be just as crazy as the last phase, as I will tell you all about when next we meet. Joe and I are taking the train to Durango, Colorado on Tuesday, for a family reunion. We’ll be staying in a wood 
cabin in the high mountains, under the trees next to a lake around a campfire and under the stars. Sounds like a prayer and for my family, it will be. 🌲 My brother will be singing “I’m so Lonesome in my Saddle Since My Horse Died” ~ we will all sing along and tell family stories and I wouldn’t miss it. With all the beautiful things that happened on this trip, there were other things I wasn’t able to talk about (even though I was sometimes asked by audiences, I had to lie, I’m sorry, it was too fresh and I would have dissolved), and I still have trouble, and will always have trouble, but we lost our dearest 
darling daddy in May. Blog Daddy to so many of you. Dad to his eight children. I’m sorry, I didn’t want to upset you, but I knew I had to tell you, he was your friend too. I will save a eulogy for maybe next Father’s Day when I hope it’ll be easier. Impossible this year. Life goes on. I’ve been so spoiled to have had him, wide awake and smart as a whip, for as long as I did. I do most everything I do, most probably for my dad, and I know that will never end. So my family is getting together for a group hug.💔 And some singing. And Joe and I are packing . . .
Me and my dad watching my brother sing in Durango a few years ago.
XOXOXOXOXO
LOVE YOU GIRLFRIENDS, thank you for everything! ❤️ Hug your loved ones tight. If the TV news is too hurtful, turn it off, and right after you call your congress person and demand they do something about gun violence 🌎 (because we are the world and what we do does matter), settle into your favorite chair with your kitty or dog, and watch a wonderful old movie. Make my mom’s Potato Chip Cookies and take half to a friend. Put a flower in a tiny vase on your kitchen sink.💐
Little things, old movies, baking smells, petty pets and girl talk, I promise, will restore your hopeful heart. 💖 Blessings to you and yours from us and ours.
Later . . . P.S. I’ve just finished reading somewhere around 400 comments on this post . . . and wanted to thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart. My dad loved reading your comments too, 
he would talk about them with me on the phone as he was slowly getting to know you. My prayer is that he’s reading them right now, he would be honored! Your words are so comforting, I can’t thank you enough for sharing your stories and really, your hearts. Our Girlfriend Mary S. left a quote I love . . . “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” I know this is true. Because yes, Gabi, my dad did raise me to be a trooper, just like he was.
“I love you too, Sue. I love everything about you.” 💞 Dad, just 2 days before he was gone.
Those words were all I ever wanted, and all I’ll ever need. How can I mourn when I had such love. I’ll celebrate his life every day of mine. As for Joe, while he drove, I cried, and there was my 
guardian angel, reaching across the ice chest with his comforting hand to hold mine. I smiled through the book signings and wondered if anyone could tell. I knew what my dad wanted me to do and I did my best to do my best. Looking forward to the 
laughter and the music I’m about to share with my family! I know it will be a celebration we will always remember. Thank you so much everyone. And yes, off we’ll go to England and Scotland in September! And we will have so much fun! So get ready. I’ll be sending out a brand new Willard filled with new news and gifts and fun things next month! Life is for the living. My dad’s greatest gift was his love of life. He revelled in it. I want to be just like him when I grow up. XOXO
Wonderful blog today! I’m grateful to catch up with your book tour and to see the audiences’ faces as they were listening to you, their heroine/guru/inspiration/friend. I know how they felt because I’ve been in your audience before. And it’s evident that you love and appreciate right back. But those 9,000+ miles have to take a toll, especially bearing such grief too. Hopefully being with your family in Colorado to mourn and celebrate will help ease the pain some. I know that I, like all of the GFs, am sending sympathy, prayers, and love your way.
I am so heartbroken for you. I am holding you in the light.
Dear Susan,
Thank you for taking us on your journey. I am so sorry about your daddy, glad you saved the story for the end. I am heartbroken for you and your 7 siblings. I hope the trip will allow you all some small amount of comfort. I know how close you are with everyone in your family. Tears along with you. Take care.
Rosie in Chicago
Just finished reading this beautiful story of your trip and the sad news about your Dad. He will always be with you, of that we can be sure.Thank you for taking your stationary girlfriends, like me, with you on all of these wonderful trips.
Oh Susan. I am so so sorry for your loss. May your memories and deep love for him bring you comfort and peace. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Oh, how my heart hurts for you, Susan, with the loss of your dad. I lost my dear old dad 4 years ago when he was 84…and the memories just get sweeter with every passing day. I loved him to pieces all the precious years I had him…and lost him suddenly in 2012, the night before my daughter graduated from high school. She was holding his hand when he passed – I’d left the room for a minute to greet some friends, and that’s when he left us. His smile, his sweet voice, his beautiful, handsome face, the way he took such good care of all of us all our lives…all the many little (and big) things he did for us all along the way. What a treasure – and how truly blessed we are to have known the love of such quietly great men. Sending you a very big, but gentle hug, dear, sweet Susan. Love you so much. Thank you for being strong enough to continue the tour, even as we know your heart was breaking. xoxoxo
My husband and I have lost both parents over the years. Mourn for your loss; then smile for the blessing of the years you were given together.
Sending our sympathy, Alan and Genie
So sorry for your loss Susan! Hope you make a trip to the breathtakingly beautiful northwest corner of the country sometime. We love you out here too. Hugs!
Prudence Lay
Sisters, Oregon
Oh Susan…my heart just sank when I read about your Dad…he was such an amazing man and one of the best Dad’s any one could ever ask for. God blessed you with the best! He will be missed by all of us…he was quite the blogger! And did so well with his iPad!! I know this will help with the healing process..just being together in his honor and to love on each other. As long as we have faith we do survive… and we know..we will see them again.
Blessings to you and Joe..I’m sorry I didn’t get to see you on this amazing road trip…but did follow you via Twitterland! You are so loved..as you should be…when you give love..you get it!!
My prayers are with you,
Gert
I love you Susan! So sorry about your wonderful Dad. I will say a prayer for you and yours tonite. Your spirit of the love for what you do shined bright on your tour, because you are who you portray and you had to be exhausted but kept smiling and showing kindness to everyone! I am so happy to have met you and Joe. I will never forget you and it is a memory I will always cherish!
Welcome Home!!😂 I am so so happy to have had the opportunity to meet you! You are a gem! I LOVE your magic spirit! Your beautiful interpretation of life encourages! It is a gift, and You are a gift! God Bless! Xoxo
Susan, my deepest sympathy to you and your whole family. Our dads were about the same age and I lost him three years ago. I’m so sorry. Through your writing, I’ve known how important your dad and your mom have been a great part of your journey. Hugs. Big hugs. Xo. T
Susan, I am so sorry about your Dad pass on ng. You couldn’t have said it better! I thank your Dad for having such an amazing impact on you and allowing you to follow your heart and encourage you to love yourself! Beautiful picture and wonderful blog! You Rock! Thanks for being so positive and precious! MAY God continue to bless you and yours. Xoxo
Dearest Susan,
Every one of your blogs is truly a gift – beautiful artwork, photos and lovely stories and quotations. I have enjoyed these gifts from you for many years. Please let me give you a gift now. If you will accept this gift, you will learn that your father will live again on this earth. The Bible says that “there is going to be a resurrection” at Acts 24:15. You can get more information on this at jw.org by putting the word “resurrection” in the Search field. Or if you prefer, you can send me an email and I will help you get more information from the Bible. At jw.org there are many free downloads of Bible information that have helped millions of people find hope when this world offers none. You have nothing to lose by checking it out.
Thank you for accepting my gift to you.
I remember mentioning our Dads to you in a post a couple of years ago, because they were about the same age. I lost my Dad last year Jan. 2015 when he was 91, so my heart goes out to you. The world is not the same for us now, but we were loved and taught by men of that extraordinary generation. How lucky for us. xo
Dear Susan,
My deepest sympathies on the loss of your Dad. There just aren’t words to mend a broken and greiving heart. Thank you for sharing your Dad with your readers, it was an honor to read your stories. Memories, life is full of them, and you have some of the best ones by far. Safe travels on your next journey. I’m going to read my copy of Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams. On Monday, I will call my Congressman and demand they hold a vote on gun reform.
Wow!! That was some tour. It’s obvious from the packed audience at each bookstore location that your books are truly loved. I’m the Twitter woman who was in Asheville, NC and saw your van at Malaprops but didn’t have my book with me for signing. ) :
Anyway, loved your pictures. Thanks for sharing your beautiful adventures with us. And I’m so sorry about your dad.
I am so sorry about the loss of your dad, for your whole family, our hearts are with you.
I don’t have words for how my heart is hurting for you. I knew when I looked in your eyes in Asheville there was sadness in them. I am so sorry, that is so inadequate- especially when you brought me such comfort through just being you and your books when my mom passed. A while back I said on the blog how I never had a dad (I’m adopted), but the man I always imagined, would of been just like your dad and had your dad’s hands. A true man’s hands- that carried and accomplished so much in his life. What a fine man. May he rest in such beautiful peace.
Take care of yourself and it was wonderful to read all your beautiful adventures…db
I went back for the second half reading of your trip….was hoping to see the picture Joe took of me and my friend Dianne in Woodstock….but wanted to add how sorry I am to hear of your Dads passing…it must be a tremendous loss for you….(((((((((((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))))) from Kennesaw Georgia…..Sue.
Thank you for this wonderful blog. It was so good to catch up with you. I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. My Dad was accepted thru the gates of heaven a few months ago. As the first man in your life, a Dad is in your heart forever. How blessed we are to know that much love. Thanks for sharing Blog Daddy with us.
I hope you have a fantastic reunion, filled with love and laughter.
Dear Susan,
I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. I know there must be a hole in your heart where he’s missing but that won’t be for long. His memory will fill it up again with love and reminiscing, especially the reminiscing you will do with your family. On another note, I absolutely adore “Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams.” I finished it a week ago and keep going back to it. I love quotes that lift me up and/or give me something to think about, too. I laughed and cried and I’ve returned to “A Fine Romance,” which I read first, to bring the story full circle. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with us. I will send good thoughts your way as you have time with your family in Colorado. I had a wonderful dad, too, and miss him everyday.
So very sorry for you . . . . the hardest thing in life I have ever experienced-the loss of my Dad. Far worse than becoming a single mom of 3 little ones. May you and your family find peace in the days ahead.
I’m so sorry for your loss Susan. I loved reading Blog Daddy’s comments on your blog. I know you miss him everyday. Know he will always be in your heart and will visit you in your dreams. Peace to you and your family.
Susan, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad and here I was going home to Minnesota to take care of my Dad because of his failing health and spend quality time as well as my step-mom who did not hear good news either. Prayers and (((hugs))) to you. Cherish those memories – I’m sure glad that I made some more memories with my Dad.
Dearest Susan, Thank you for trusting us with such tender news. It is a different world when your father is gone from it; good thing the sweet memories are always close by. Sometimes I feel as if my memories of my dad and mom grow closer as the days pass–maybe because I seem to talk to them almost non-stop now. 🙂 Our dogs and cats understand. Please know that we understand, too. Sending you love…
Oh Sue.
There are no words. I had the privilege of meeting you in Cincinnati on your tour. I can’t imagine how tough it was for you to get through this trip without Blog Daddy.
Some people’s heroes are Lincoln or Roosevelt. When people ask me who I believe in, I stick out my chest and reply “Susan Branch and Gladys Taber.” I get quizzical looks and questions, but the world needs more of you and positivity.
Am I silly? Maybe. But I pray for good things. Always.
So sorry for your loss. All my love.
Safe travels. Sending prayers for peace and comfort as you and your family morn the loss of your father.
Dear Susan, I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. Don’t be sorry for not telling us until now. Now was the right time and prefect time to share about your loss. Losing a family member is extremely difficult as many of us know and I think you handled it better than most of us would have, especially while on your book tour ( or preparing for it.)
This was a post worth waiting for!!! It was just a pleasure reading about your travels and seeing all the photos and of course, seeing all those happy and wonderful people you met at the book signings!!
Thank you for sharing Blog Daddy. ❤️
Thank you for sharing your wonderful and positive personality with all of us. Thanks for taking all of us with you on your book signing tour. America is beautiful and so are you! Thanks too for letting us share your special Dad.
May God be with you and your family and thank you for sharing Blog Daddy with us—- he was loved!!
Dear Susan—-
Like me you had a wonderful Dad and you will never forget all the wonderful things you shared. Because you have those memories he will be with you forever. My Dad has been gone for many years but my Mom died in February—I would love to be able to pick up the phone and talk to her one more time. Enjoy your reunion and know that positive thoughts and prayers are coming you way. Love to you and yours—Chris (great post)
Dear Susan, I am so sorry for your loss. I felt like I knew him from all you wrote about him. He raised an incredibly talented daughter, I know he was so proud of you. I lost mine 29 years ago, very quickly. He shared his love of music with me and he was the one who first saw I loved to draw, he would bring me pads of paper which I would fill with drawing. I hope you enjoy your trip with hour family, think if you Dad often, I love to look into the sky at night, twinkling stars, I think there he’s there’ are winking at me. Please know there are many people who love you, count me as one of them… 😘
Dear Susan, I had hoped to see you again in Cambria or Montecito but was unable to because my dad became sick and we spent every weekend traveling down to be with him in Mission Viejo. He passed away on June 15th and was buried on Father’s Day. I spoke with him every night since my mom passed away 18 years ago, and I miss him so very much. I know that you and I were both lucky to have such wonderful dads, and I know that seeing us happy made them happy. I am surrounded by a devoted husband and loving friends which are helping me to get through this sad time, and I hope that is helping you to get through this too. I will think of you missing your beloved dad as I cry for mine. Sending much love to you, from Ilene (who shares your birthday)
Awful awful awful, I’m so sorry Ilene … but yes, the circle of love I’m feeling from family, friends, and from our Girlfriends is a HUGE comfort … I’m reading every comment, and I feel infused with love and support, almost glowing from the kind thoughts and expressions. I’m sending all of it to you, because I know you need it as much as I do. And to all of us worried about our parents, and forging ahead despite loss. Thank you one and all. 💞 May the circle be unbroken . . .
Oh gosh, I’m fighting back tears after hearing the very sad news. 🙁
But good news I have, just this very day I received The Fairy Tale Girl in the mail! I was so excited, and started reading it right away, and now I get This long awaited post!! You see, I am not on FB and I don’t Tweet, so this is my only connection with you. Your book and your news all on the same day!! Joy!!
Your trip looked awesome, so fun, and full of excitement!
Have a great trip on Tuesday!
Dear Susan, I’m thinking of you and your family in this sad time. I’m so sorry. Please imagine all of your girlfriends across the country sending you a big collective hug (((( )))).
Sorry to hear about you losing your dad. I almost lost my own dad in May. Thanking God every day he is still with us and really in good health now.
Dearest Susan, my heart aches for you. I am so sorry about the loss of your dad. What a wonderful man! I loved hearing you talk about him in your books and blog. It is hard. My dad died three years ago, and we miss him so. I am glad you were able to get home for a bit, and be with those precious kitties. It will be so good now for your to be able to be with your family, and share memories and laughter as well as tears. Let the soothing travel on the train give you some rest. Thank your for sharing from your heart. You are so loved. I am praying for you.
Susan, so very sorry for the loss of your Dad. It seems that you both loved each other very much. My Dad died in 1998, and I still miss him. Will keep you and your family in my prayers. God bless and keep you and Joe.
Oh Susan, my heart breaks for you with the news of your Dad. You’ll be in my prayers. I was certainly hoping to see you while you were in Texas but we had a glitch in the schedule and I didn’t get back home in time after burying my Beloved in Arlington National Cemetery.
Pea-green with envy when I see all those happy faces and I so wanted to be one of them! Maybe some day. Thank you for sharing the journey….even the difficult part of it. Take care of yourself and enjoy every moment in Durango! Thinking about you!!
It’s so good to hear from you! ☆ We are very sad to hear the news about your dad…..bless his heart. ♡ Take care, dear Susan.
Dearest Susan,
I am so very sorry to hear about your Dad. Please accept my sincerest, and heartfelt condolences and know in your heart that he is always with you…each and every step you take, each and every moment he is right there, sitting on your shoulder, protecting you, guiding you and oh so very proud of you for the very person you are. The very person that he helped to create…and the person we ‘Girlfriends’ have been fortunate to know, love and admire.
I was fortunate enough to meet you at Rakestraw Boks in Danville where you were so very kind to sign my Mom’s very first watercolor attempt of a geranium. It touched my heart and meant the world to me. I am very grateful.
Thank you Susan.
With heartfelt love,
Kelly Machnov
Dear Susan,
I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. Our thoughts and prayers will be with all of you. I hope you can smile again through the tears at all the wonderful memories you & your family have shared, he’s another angel watching over you. Have a safe trip to Colorado and congratulations for being on the New York Times bestseller list. So much of life is bittersweet but you definitely make this world a sweeter place!
Dearest Susan,
I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved father! May your wonderful and cherished memories bring you comfort during this difficult time. I have been thinking about you a lot lately! I missed your book signing in Boston by a week ! I brought my copy of Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams book on the plane from Seattle to Boston.Although I have already read it, I hate flying and gathered courage and comfort reading how you made it through to the landing when you first arrived here. I am attending the IRA conference in Boston and hope to go back with lots of wonderful strategies for teaching reading and writing to my second graders. I was hoping to get the opportunity to visit Martha’s Vineyard while I’m here but sadly won’t be able to. It will have to happen another time. Next time I might travel like you did by train! Remember …. You are loved!!!
Oh Susan, my heart aches for you & the family. I’m so very sorry. He was quite the character, and one of the greatest! I can understand about keeping it close to your heart. I cry every time we speak about my Dad, and he’s just gone to an Alzheimer’s unit. I’ve taken care of him for months at a time the last 2 years to give mom a rest. He was here just a few weeks ago until he suddenly went into the new level and he became constantly distressed. He always remembered me, as I am the first child, and his memory faded after 1961. For that I am eternally grateful. I’m happy you had your father for so long & totally sharp those years. He has left quite a legacy in your family. Enjoy your train trip and the beautiful mountains. Safe journey.
Sooo sorry for your loss. Losing a Dad is rough but he lives on in your mind and in your memories forever. Sounds like you had a wonderful trip and met zillions of great people. Now time for a rest and enjoy your trip to the family reunion.
I’m crying with you.
Dearest Sue, My heart and prayers go out to you and Joe. I wish you a blessed time as you gather with your family to celebrate the life of your precious Father, who was so much a part of making you who you are today. Please know there are so many of us sending prayers heavenward on your behalf that our Lord will grant you the peace only he can provide!
. ( My darling daughter turned 16 today, July 9 th, the same Day my dearest 99 year old cute snow haired little Grammie passed away …7 years ago… ) We remembered Gram and celebrated my daughter growing up both beautiful and … Bittersweet.
Dear Sweet Susan,
So proud of all you have accomplished. I have followed you for years and have ALL your books and a lot of your fabric. Was not able to get to any of your signing this year in California but do have a signed copy of your latest as it was ordered for me. Truly Wonderful!!!
Will be in Martha’s Vineyards next Fall 2017 as I have introduced a new girlfriend to your books and we have decided to go back to see Martha’s Vineyards and to embrace the beauty of the island first hand. Hope to get a glimpse at your beautiful Home……….. Met you for the 2nd time up in San Luis Obispo a few years back – First time was down in southern California in Irvine close to where I live, and was hoping to get to meet up with you when you came back to CA this time but was not meant to be. Wishing you the best and I know your trip back to England will be a wonderful and memorable one as before. Good friends are always there for you as you have so many of us that follow you where ever you go- if not in person in spirit. Take care sweet friend as I know you have a heavy heart with your Dad passing, but know he is always with you -You have an new angel watching over you…………….. Big Hugs and Love Madelyn
Hi again, Susan,
I know you may not respond but was hoping you could tell me of a few places to check on as to where to stay in October of 2017 as I don’t know the area and would love to be near the city you are in and you may have some suggestions. Please give me a few ideas if you have the time. Take care sweet girlfriend! Hugs Madelyn
Best thing is to go to our chamber of commerce, that will get you started. I haven’t really any first-hand knowledge of places to stay, because I never stay in any of them, and my friends stay here with us, so I’m not really good with that. The whole island is only 100 square miles, so no matter where you are, you’ll be relatively near everywhere else! If you stay close to one of the 3 main towns, you’ll be able to walk to things like shopping and restaurants. Try AirB&B … they’re getting pretty good around here. Have a wonderful time Madelyn, and thank you for your kind thoughts!
Dear Susan,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad.
ALL of your girlfriends from around the world with conspire to form a circle of love to give you comfort, to give you space, to send you love, to bolster you up, to listen, to understand, to send out prayers of love and gratitude.
You have accomplished so many amazing things while your dad walked this earth and you will continue to accomplish many more with him in spirit. You have an inner strength full of love and heart that resonates with all. Each and every one of us that have felt your loving presence in our lives and we will be sending love and blessings and peace back to you. Feel the love. Celebrate the beauty of life with your dad and family. Be at peace as you say good bye. With much love, Kari
PS There is the English version of ‘Keep Calm and Carry On’, but I think you have just moved mountains over the last few months, and have elevated your gifts into a verb of strength and power and grace!! ‘Keep Calm and Susan On’!
Hey Susan! You started out by telling us that you liked “listening to the birds drinking your first cup of tea”. My question for you – did they make any slurping sounds as they did so? BTW My wife Trudy used to work at Heart’s Ease here in Cambria, CA. Ring a bell?
Susan, I am so sorry to read about the loss of your lovely father. (((((hugs))))) He seemed to have such character and he was so proud of you. May the hurt become less with time as you fill your days, heart and mind with memories of a lifetime of moments spent together and the love shared. God bless you. xoxo
You’ve outdone yourself, once again. Thank You.
This is a huge labor of love and we girlfriends adore you for that.
May you share fond memories of your Dad in your upcoming travels. Take the time to grieve and heal. Happy trails.
Too many tears and too small a screen on my phone to continue right now. Dear Susan- I’m so sorry for the loss of your father. He sounds like a fantastic human being. Thank you for sharing him. 💗 Teri
Thank you so much for the wonderful post covering your coast to coast adventures! I wanted to see you at Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena, but I was working and in the midst of living in a construction zone in our tiny apartment. It turned out pretty well, all things considered, after about 5 or 6 weeks, and am very grateful to have a functional kitchen once again. But the kitchen reno left me so exhausted and sleep deprived, that I just couldn’t summon up the strength to attend. I so appreciate the pictures you posted of the event. It was almost as good as being there! I also want to extend my sincerest condolences regarding these loss of your father. It is very painful to lose a parent, I still miss my mother and she passed away ten years ago. But I have the solace of knowing that she isn’t really gone. She lives in my heart and mind, and I am certain she is enjoying eternity with her family in heaven. How do I know this, you may ask? Well, in a nutshell, I would visit my mother at her nursing home in Sundays. She had severe short term memory loss and some dementia (she had just turned 90). Well, on Saturday she asked the CNA where I was, and she reminded mom that I would be there on Sunday, the next day. She looked at the CNA, and said Oh, but I’m not going to be here! You guessed it, she passed away later that day. The gift to me was that previous Sunday, the last time I saw her, was as if someone flipped a switch and she was all there, clear as a bell and we sat reminiscing together for quite a while. It was a joy to be with her, and as some might say, a candle burning its brightest just before it is extinguished. Susan, If this this story eases even a fraction of your grief, it will have served its purpose, and I swear it is true. Take it slowly and remember that even though the rest of the world has at the audacity to go about its business as usual in spite of your pain, know that he is not lost to you and never will be as long as you remember him. Best wishes to you and Joe and your beloved 4 legged family members.
What a brave, precious soul you are, bearing quietly the sorrow of losing your sweet daddy, all the while shielding your Girlfriends from the news. There is nothing like the love between a daddy and his girl; it’s one of the most dear and special bonds found in this life and this heart is sorrowing with you, knowing also the pain from losing a daddy nine years ago. What I have found to be true is as time goes on, you will realize even more than you ever thought, that your dad will always be a part of you…of course the physical characteristics, but the enduring inner qualities that he imparted to you through your years together…those precious things will never depart. And, yes, the memories will come flooding in and thank God for each one…bittersweet though they are, they are such a blessing to hold close as a salve for the heart. He and your mom a did such a wonderful job raising you and your siblings, and we Girlfriends are blessed because of that. Please pass along my condolences also to Jeannie….
As for your stop at Booksellers in Memphis, that place will never be the same for me and my sister-in-law! I can still see your van parked out front when we arrived way early and we fluttered around taking pictures of it. Then we heard a most kind voice behind us asking if he could help us in any picture taking…It was Joe!! I was so flabbergasted and beside myself that I accidentally took a picture of his shoes first thing…and I still have the picture! Susan, what a treasure your coming to our area has been and still is, as I remember the wonderfulness you brought to us. You are such a special, kind, and patient soul with a light and beauty that shines from deep within and warms those around you…and those aren’t just words…they are straight from this old southern heart. And Joe, what a guy. You have a true gem in him…why, he would make the perfect Southern gentleman! Susan, thinking of you and your family during this time of remembering….continued safe travels. xoxoxoxo
P.S. Hope you liked the Peter Rabbit book…it has truly experienced a ‘velveteen rabbit’ kind of love through its years, I do believe…
God Bless you Susan. What a wonderful post. Read every word and will go back and read it again for content. I was so excited to see this this morning. What a wonderful trip. Enjoy your family time now. You have more than earned it.
Susan, thank you for your blog, your books, your life affirming outlook. I’ve not written on your blog before, but am an avid reader. My Mum and Dad bought me Fairytale Girl and Isle of Dreams for my birthday on 23rd June. I was reading them when my beloved Dad died on 1st July, unexpectedly and suddenly, leaving us bereft. Your lovely books have been there for the quiet moments over the last week, for which I am grateful. I know at some stage we will be able to look past the shock and grief to see that there is little to be sad about in a long life well lived. Until then, we have so many happy memories to sustain us as a family, as I know you do to.
Weren’t we lucky to have such incredible fathers – ‘Roots to ground, wings to fly’.
So sorry to hear about your Dad. Seemed like a very loving, caring & compassionate father. As always, I love reading your blog & enjoy the artwork and adorable pictures! I can tell you really love your home!
Dearest Susan, I am so very sorry for your loss. You and your beautiful family are in my thoughts and prayers. xx
Susan,
Tears streaming down my face as I read the end of your blog. My prayers are with you and your family…
I am savoring MVIOD, reading a few pages at a time and only when i can sit outside and enjoy it without being rushed. Will be sad when it is done. Oh how I miss the Vineyard. I watch my videos frequently that I took while there last fall to “feel it” again.
Your trip looked wonderful and so much fun. You must be exhausted. You are a true lover of life and I just love you for who you are!! Glad you are home! Enjoy the trip to Colorado and being with your family.
Wishing you great comfort my friend-you know, the kind you bring to all of us <3
Holding you in my prayers….I’m so very sorry to hear about you Dad….May he rest in peace~
Dear Susan. I am so very sorry about your Daddy. Love and prayers to you.
Dear Susan, I commented yesterday and when I woke up this morning – went right to your blog…….to read all of the wonderful girlfriend posts. It’s comforting, but sad; however, I just want to say that, if there is a way for our loved ones who have passed on to reach us (and I do believe there is), then you will see your Dad throughout this blog……I know he must have read it like we girlfriends do and he had such a wonderful sense of humor! I LOVED his comments and looked for them in each blog. You’ll see him in your 7 siblings and their offspring……..in their smiles, their words (I’ll bet you all have a bit of his humor)………and they’ll see him in you. And the memories….lots of years of memories. You, dear Susan, are a wonderful artist, author, person…….but the one thing that stands out right now is that you are blessed with the love of two MIGHTY GOOD men in your life…………Jack and Joe…….two mighty good men! xoxo
Oh Susan, I am so sorry…thank you for sharing the joy and serendipity of your long trip – as you travel to be with your family, continue to be gentle with yourself, and may you find peace and comfort in memories.
What a wonderful overview of your fabulous trip for your book. Ohh, the smiles and love at every stop must be very rewarding for your many long hours/months/years of work! Beautiful!
Susan, I am sorry to hear about your loss of Blog Daddy. No matter how we know we are on borrowed time as our parents age, we are never ready to let go. He was very special here on you blog and I will miss him so. Blessings to you and your family for peace and love and may your gathering be the sweetest tribute to his love for all of you!
Dearest Susan, Joe and family
So very sad to get to the end of your amazing blog and read such devastating news for you all.
Cried for you.
Sending hugs and love but hoping that if you’re still coming over the pond, we can give you hugs galore at the picnic!
Love
Karen (Cambridgeshire, U.K.)
xxxxxoooooxxxxx
We are coming!
Oh, Susan, I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. 🙁 Thank you for sharing all your stories with us–and him–over the years. Now every Willard will be that much more special for all of us. <3
I loved your video from Channel 3 in Memphis. So fun to hear you speak your story. My fella and I also moved cross-country after spending only 3 days in the place that would become our new hometown. (Unlike you, we did go back home first for a few months…then it took just one last bad day at work (for me) to boomerang us–with gusto– into our new lives!)
So sorry to hear about your dad. The hole in your heart will close some over the years but will never heal completely. Your dad was a funny, special man and we will really miss him around here.
Susan, first I want to say how sorry I am to hear about your Dad. He sounded like a wonderful man and I hope that by the time you get together with family, you’ll be able to to remember him with a smile and a laugh, and, of course, some tears. There really are no words — grief is such a personal journey. He is in a place filled with God’s love (and no need for fall-out shelters!). He lived a good life and I’m sure he was very proud of you.
I’m so happy I finally got to meet you at Bookends in Ridgewood, NJ. I know, by then, you and Joe must have been exhausted and looking forward to being home, but you were just as gracious and kind as I would have expected, treating us like the girlfriends you like to call us.
I’ll always treasure the books you signed for me and, as I’m sure like so many, wish I could sit and have a cup of tea with you. When I saw you had a new (long) blog this morning, I put on the tea kettle and delayed reading until I could settle in with steaming mug in hand! Thanks for sharing your cross country trip. You and Joe are so generous — you knew we’d all love to come along!
You know, cats like to make you PAY for LEAVING them! They can give you the cold shoulder just to make you feel guilty for leaving them. In their sweet little hearts, they were turning summer-salts that you were home! I, too, suffered a loss three weeks ago — my sweet kitty Tinkerbelle of seventeen years crossed the rainbow bridge. I was heart broken. My husband stayed up until 1am making her a wooden box. We wrapped her in a lovely, delicate pink knitted blanket that had been on the giveaway table at the library where I work (and I put away for this occasion) and my Mom and I wrote love notes to send along with her on her journey. She is buried alongside my Knockout roses which bloom until frost and underneath our Kousa Dogwood tree which was in full bloom at the time. She is in a beautiful place, next to the patio and us. Tinkerbelle adopted me and I’m hoping that there is another sweet kitty out there wanting to adopt me again. Love is everything. Our hearts are hurting, but the love we shared, be it a pet or a parent, is in our hearts forever and always a part of us.
Love to you, Joe and family
JoAnne Daniels, in beautiful northwest NJ
Dear Susan, Sending a big hug! And a Thank You for the gift you gave to all of us, the SBGF’s, by sharing your dad with us. It truly was a gift and we were all blessed to be able to know him! A special man. We will all miss him.
Oh dear Susan,
My eyes are filled with tears….have to wipe them before I write more to you. Pardon.
There are no words big enough, deep enough to describe the loss of a great Man who was such an exemplary guy in all ways. My, but weren’t you so very “lucky” to have such a Dad like him. I hope that when you all get together in Colorado you celebrate the fortunate circumstances of having such a person in your life. He was special. You are too. And your mother, brothers, sisters….all reflect the sunny, hopeful, creative and loving way you were raised. The days together with our loved ones are numbered. While you are living them, it’s hard to realize that and rightly so…you are meant to live fully in the moment at hand. Loss is shattering, shocking and the hollow feeling in your torso is real…..you are meant to fully feel that too. That is the price tag of loving, as my Mom always said….you are meant to live a full spectrum of emotions as you are alive in the best times and the worst times. We cry because it hurts to feel. Is it better to not feel? No. Rose Kennedy said that while you really never get over “it”, time grows scar tissue over the wound. Your heart is big enough…beyond that thick wound to help you carry on over time. Time is the word, ..isn’t time really the gift? We don’t see it somehow till it’s gone.
Well, can not close without telling you that I enjoyed seeing all the “happy faces” in your post today. It was all about bright eyes and beautiful smiles and delight and people having fun…..and how wonderful is that?
Dear Susan,
Jim and I were so happy to finally meet you and Joe in Austin
and to bring you greetings from Sydna. She loved seeing the
pictures we took and is doing much better.
We are so very sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing and will keep
you in our thoughts and prayers. I lost my Mom this past week
on July 5, and share in your grief of losing a wonderful, loving parent.
Safe travels to Colorado. Will be keeping you and your family in
our thoughts and prayers!
Love,
Sherry
Hi Sherry! I have Sydna’s note, but can’t find her address . . . can you give that to me please? You can write me at feedback@162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ when convenient! I’m so sorry about your mom!!! It almost feels like an epidemic! XOXO Thank you for the kind words and blessings to you and yours.
Thank you Susan! Yes, I’d be happy to send you Syd’s
address.
I got it Sherry, please tell her I’ll write soon! xoxo
Awesome! I will! xoxo
So sorry for your loss! I lost both my parents in 2013-2014 after 8 years of caregiving. I still look up expecting to see them. Each day gets a little easier. Welcome back! Your blog was GRATEFULLY and avidly received! I savored it with my morning coffee on my screen porch in the early summer morning,PERFECT!
Susan, how wonderful that he left you with those loving and encouraging words, which you will remember and live by for the rest of your life.
Love & Prayers,
Gert
A beautiful P.S. What a gift to hear those words from your dad. You are his Sunshine. 🌞💕
Hugs to you sweet Susan and to all of your family. You always honored your Daddy when you wrote of him and blessings have and will continue to come to you because of that.
Susan, I cried when I read about your Dad. I am so sorry for your loss. I had a restless night and every time I woke you were on my mind. I will keep you and your siblings in my prayers. Sending so much love your way. xoxo
I am so sorry. Thank you for your words. I am going to make cookies today.
Deepest sympathies to you dear Susan for the loss of your Daddio. I know how your heart must be hurting right now….the time with your family will help so much. Hang in there:-)
As my Daddy told me once a long time ago in his simple and direct manner…”whatever happens honey, you are loved.” My sweet Daddy’s been gone for 10 years now and I always think of him saying that and it’s such a comfort. Blessings to you xoxo
I’m so sorry you’ve said goodby to your father, but so glad you had him.
May God comfort you and your family.
Susan, I am so sorry about the loss of your dad. Sorry you are hurting, and sorry that you will miss him for the rest of your life. I really admire you for persevering through your book tour in spite of your pain, life really is about the joy and the sorrow… it’s why we have hearts to love and hearts to cry. You are in my thoughts and prayers
I am so sad for you with such a loss. I loved how over the years you spoke of your Mom and Dad and I thought how lucky you were to still have them and them to have you. Our hearts are with you.
Dear Sweet Susan,
You are really just the living, breathing example of grace.
That you could carry on with love and delight and kindness, book signing after book signing, while suffering one of the heaviest loses is such a testament to the strength and generousity that resides in your heart.
I cried, as I know so many of us Girl Friends did reading about our Commander in Chief of the Peanut Gallery. His love and imprint on you is obvious and everlasting. Thank you for sharing him with us. God bless you and your family.
Love to you,
Tawni Urrutia in Lodi, Ca.
He called where he lived in “Smallville,” “the asylum.” Commander in Chief of the Peanut Gallery. So funny. xoxo
Susan… I can’t see right now. My heart is aching. No bandaid will help… Your Daddy was such a JOY… You were his! My memories are flooding back… My Daddy, my strength, my biggest fan, my biggest encourager, my helper…. He called me his heavenly premie… Every house I ever bought, he was there, helping. He taught me to kick a soccer ball, throw a baseball, hammer a nail. How I miss him!
Your Blog Daddy loved you to pieces. He was your first hero and forever love.
I’m passing the Kleenex and holding your heart and crying with you.
Much love,
Georgie from NJ
One of my Dads favorite quotes which he lived to the fullest was, Be Honest, Be Just and Fear Not.
Dear Susan, sending sympathy to You and your family.
.. dear Susan..you have been in our thoughts and prayers..yesterday’s news left me without words..I didn’t remember to tell you what a beautiful post that was and what strength you carried to have coninued on with your book tour,as you did !..you give us such continued love and support, regardless.. I just read your P.S.. ‘so heart-felt and beautiful !!..as you are !!..I keep thinking of this quote by Rumi.. “goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes because for those who love with heart and soul, there is no separation ..”..we love you Susan and wish you a safe and loving and peaceful journey to Colorado..
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. The love between you has been so apparent on this blog and in your books and I hope that you can feel all the love from all of us.
Totally. I feel it completely and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the beautiful words I am reading here. I’m astounded at our connection. THANK YOU ALL, 10,000 times, isn’t it wonderful to know we are not alone?
Yes! And it is a wonderful gift you have. You have the magic of bringing people together.
Dear Susan: Just LOVE your P.S.!! So full of joy and hope. Yes, how can we not sing and laugh and look forward joyfully with Dads like yours. . .and mine, too. Such a heritage! Those words, his last to you, so wonderful and treasures!!! And dear Joe holding your hand. SO much like us — Gene and me. He did the same for me when my Dad died. I can tell in your Dad’s eyes the kindness and love and pride he had/has in you!! If people can see us from heaven, he’ll certainly be watching and cheering you on!! I was blue yesterday. Two other men I knew — one long time friends of ours (Gene and me) died in the last week, too. And all I could think of was death. But this morning I woke up with hope — and thankful for YOU!! Your openness in sharing your joys and sorrows helps ALL of us!! We are one big family — the Girlfriends. Thank you for the happiness you scatter like sunshine. And thank God for His grace that He showers on us and His light which shines in our darkest moments. God bless you! We’ll be thinking and praying much for you & Joe and your family in Durango. Looking forward to England & Scotland, too!! XOXO
I loved reading this post. I had been waiting anxiously for a new one, not knowing all that you were going through. My heart literally broke, and I cried buckets of tears, as I read about the passing of your father, to my husband. I always looked forward to his comments on your blog, I will miss them. I’m not sure how you continued on and left home for over a month, keeping this news to yourself. I knew you were a strong woman, but now I know the strength you really own. You have inspired me in the past to be a better person and now you have once again inspired me to be better yet. Thank you for sharing your life, stories, art, and words with us.
Dearest Susan, what a beautiful post, just like always and I was just thinking I need to ask Susan to do a special Vegan Cookbook with all the “Susan Branch beauty” and as I reached the end of your post my heart broke in two just like the rest of the ladies here. I’m so sorry for your loss and pray your pain will soon subside to allow only room for hope. I believe in the words of JOHN 5:28, 29. Heavenly Father will keep you father in his memory until the time comes when you will be re-united. I know your father was a very special man because he taught you to be so special. You and your family are in my prayers and pray for peace to touch your heart. God Bless you Susan ❤️😘
Sending prayers for your heart healing and gentle hugs. As hard as it is right now, all the beautiful memories of times spent with your Dad will come back to comfort you.
Holding you in God’s light for healing. Thank you for sharing your wonderful trip with us.I had the pleasure of talking with you in New Hope about one of the Jersey shore areas that has an illumination night also (Ocean Grove, NJ)
Susan, I don’t know how I missed it the first time I read this post. I am so sorry for your loss. I weep for you and with you. I talk to my dad’s picture. God be with you.
Good Morning Sue B….xoxo
I loved every bit of your Blog, almost as much as I loved reading Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams!! ❤️💕👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻. It was a wonderful recap of your USA road trip! What a wonderful time you had, seeing all those Girlfriends that love you so much!! 💕❤️💕 It was so special to see you in Morro Bay, and be a part of your big day there! I love you so much, and you always inspire me with your happy gene, and the way everyone lights up when you walk into a room! You have touched the lives and hearts of so many, including me, and I am so thankful for you!❤️
I am so sad, and sorry to hear about the passing of your precious daddy….😪 He will always be such an important part of you Sue, and the legacy you will leave behind someday.
I know how much he impacted your entire life, and inspired you to be who you are today! He was so proud of you too, that I know for sure!! 👧🏻. Losing our dads is a surreal thing…. You will always feel he is looking over your shoulder, cheering you on! I feel that way with my dad. He’s been gone 5 years now, but I feel he is with me in so many ways. You’ll feel the same, I’m sure…. Jack will always be watching over you, cheering you on! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻.
You held yourself together so well during your talk in Morro Bay. I remember someone asked how your parents were doing, and you answered her so calmly….I’m sure that was hard not to break down and cry! 😭😭. Please know I am praying for comfort and peace for you, and your entire family too!! Your family time together will be a special celebration for such an amazing man as Jack!! ❌⭕️❌⭕️
I love you Sue…. Sending love and hugs to you and Joe….Love from Tom and me too! ❤️
And back to you Bonnie! xoxo Thank you so much!
No words……..just tears. Tears for your father; tears for this wonderful journey you took us all on. The beautiful faces of these beautiful Americans you met all across this wonderful country of ours. Thank you. Glad you are home.
Hugs and kisses to you Sue…what a special Dad you have. He’s still there, living in your heart, watching out for you….take care, Kelly
Susan, I cried as I read your PS. I lost my Dad 3 years ago, and a day does not go by that I don’t miss him or think of him. We were both lucky to have wonderful, supportive, loving fathers and to have them with us for a long time. I hope you will feel like I do, that your Dad is always watching over you. Hugs!