Hi Everyone! How are you? We are home safe and sound, and happy, so happy to be here. Here are just a few photos of our family reunion at Vallecito Lake, “a beautiful spot, surrounded in tall pines, sheltered in a secluded mountain valley” at 8,000 feet, just outside of Durango, Colorado, and more proof that . . .
This was the moon-set at 5 am across the lake the morning we drove away, all packed up and heading back for the train and home. Stopped in the dark, tires in gravel, in the cool mountain air, with lake lapping on shore, for this photo of paradise.
Here’s just one of the jillions of group photos we took . . . My fandamly, not all, but lots. The kind of fandamly that likes to stand in freezing water. Note who’s not in picture.
My nephew Ben, arriving with the “equipment.”
In this very lovely, spiritual place which has been a gathering place for us for years . . . ever since my brother Jim moved here years ago . . . the lake is surrounded in wildflowers . . .
Where we did what we always do, we ate, we told stories, we sang . . . this is my brother Chuck dancing with my niece Heidi, daughter of my other brother Brad, at the campground. Chuck sang too, songs he wrote ~ one of my favorites that I requested so I could record it for you ~ is a sad song called “To Be a Man” (not about my dad) . . . want to hear it? Listen close to the words . . .
And lucky me . . . these are the three “kids” that Joe and I took to England and Paris on the Queen Elizabeth 2 in 2001, when, from left, Heidi was 11, Holly was 12, and Matty was 18. That’s Auntie Mame in the middle there, basking.
More wonderful moments than I can tell . . . Shelly’s twins, Paden and Mason, and my great nephews, Ben’s boys, Wyler and Beckett.
Mas Musica? Something old, something wonderful . . .
This was our cabin with the screened in porch … at Croll Cabins, right next to 5 Branches campsites … perfect for a family reunion ~ you could have a cabin, or set up a tent, or bring your camper, park next to the lake, and walk to each other’s places. It was heaven.
More wildflowers in the campground.
And now, before we talk about an important birthday celebration, and have a new giveaway ~ I just want to say thank you . . . your 900 comments in the last post were so beautiful!💛 When I was sad and missing my dear Dad, Jack to some, Blog Daddy to many, but John Patrick Stewart, Jr. in real life, all I had to do was read your words, filled with comforting, loving, life affirmations and I felt so much better! My dad would have loved them too. 💕 He so enjoyed reading your comments.
T H A N K Y O U
And now, here’s Joe . . . bringing in the cake . . . because we want to extend heartfelt
T O
. . . who would be 150 years old on July 28 . . . wouldn’t she love to know how many wonderful events are taking place this year in her memory! (Actually, I think she would feel humbled by it.) But I want to add my own respects and admiration to the many voices (you can read some of them at the Beatrix Potter Society, and become a member like me! They send the most wonderful newsletters, both online and in the mail, and there’s more information about the celebrations HERE and HERE and good shopping for BP stuff, HERE), and it all keeps coming. Because she was truly something else.
As most of you know . . . I took a trip to see Beatrix’s famous Hilltop Farm a while back, something I’d wanted to do for many years. And it was everything I’d hoped it would be, filled with the little bits of her life that she saved just for us, so that someday we could go there and be in the presence of magic.
Most everyone knows about her “little bunny books” and that they are the best selling children’s books of all time . . . and that they started with her illustrated letters like this one below that she wrote to the children of her former governess . . .
Many words have been written, both by her and even more, ABOUT her including a wonderful movie I know you would love, Miss Potter (if you haven’t already seen it). 👏 But her charming books are only the beginning of what made Beatrix so very special.
Before she ever wrote a book, Beatrix was a serious scientist whose discoveries were summarily dismissed by the scientific community, simply because she was a woman ~ this was Victorian England where women were not supposed to be scientists (or much of anything else). Her scientific discoveries were a fascinating part of her story ~ she discovered something which is still viable today, but the loss to the scientific world was nothing compared to what she was able to offer through her creative love of nature to the imaginations of children the world over, when she picked herself up, dusted herself off, and self-published her first book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit. And the rest is history herstory.
Because the story didn’t end at that misogynistic defeat, nor even at the glorious success of her books, she was just beginning to find her true place where she would leave her real legacy. When she lost her first love, she was inspired to buy a small farm in the Lake District of northern England, a place she’d been drawn to since she was a child. And, not long after, she left book writing behind her and found a new passion in farming and raising sheep, preserving a breed that was almost extinct. She loved the old ways and bought her 
furniture for Hilltop at barn sales and auctions. She hand-embroidered her own bed coverings and never put electricity in her house, so you can just imagine the quiet sounds of birdsong and wind and snow fall and teacup-in-saucer noises that she spent her life enjoying. And she took her bunny-book money and bought 14 farms and over 4,000 acres of the Lake District to keep them from the greedy hands of developers. 👏 And she helped to start the National Trust. She married late and was happy with her husband for 30 years. If you’d like to read more about Beatrix Potter, try the wonderful biography by Linda Lear, Beatrix Potter, the Extraordinary Life of a Victorian Genius. 
Beatrix saved this land for forever enjoyment because she was far-thinking, not just thinking about today, but thinking about forever. She was ahead of her time, and 
This is her little town of Far Sawrey in the Lake District where she made her home with her husband in that house on the far right of this photo. When you walk there, you walk where she walked, and really, nothing much has changed. I can’t wait to go back. Just to breathe that rarified air.
We’re going in the fall and I can’t wait to see the colors. . . we’ve only been in the springtime ….
Some of us discover Beatrix through her books, some learn about her through the National Trust, but I came to her through her little figurines, my “Beatrix Potter people,” which I found in my early 20s and have been in every place I’ve lived since then ~ I fell in love with the colors and the charm of her little critters, beautifully made in Beswick, England in the 40s and 50s.
Her life, once I learned about the things she did, as been an inspiration for me. I would love to do what she did. And all those wonderful animal figurines but, surprisingly, no lambs! So I painted this one in her honor.
And these are my People . . . some of them, there are more in other parts of the house, (and more in our webstore that I gathered as we drove across country) this is a gathering of the minds. They are coming together to have a little tea party to celebrate Beatrix. They made a cake . . .
for a Tea Party in honor of Beatrix Potter . . .
Try one of my favorite Tea Cakes EVER! Invite someone to tea, and make a little toast to Beatrix.
I’ve promised you this recipe for a long time, and now you have it, here and I also put it in my new, revised and expanded, 30th Anniversary edition of Heart of the Home, just out and available only here on my website and in some (actually any) independent bookstores (who contact us) until September.
It’s even more delicious than it looks!
Yum, Happy Birthday dear Beatrix! And also, in her honor, and in yours, a little giveaway … this wonderful little book . . .
Filled with descriptions of the woodland walks through the place Beatrix loved so much . . .
This useful book is filled with Beatrix’s charming color prints . . .
And lots of photos . . . it’s a great help for making plans for the next time you go . . . like a little dream book . . . I had one when we went and we followed the directions and the walks were wonderful…
I signed the book and will personalize it to whoever wins this drawing . . . all you have to do is leave a comment at the end of this post and you will be entered, and in a few days we’ll get “Vanna” to draw the winning name, and I hope it’s YOURS 💖. . . but that’s not all …
Oh, yeah, Jemima Puddleduck wants to come too . . . .
This lovely old 1948 edition, the very first Beatrix Potter Person I ever bought, way back in the 1970s.
She stands tall and proud and perfectly dressed. We’ll do the drawing after I get back from Cape Cod where I’m going on Thursday, on Beatrix Potter’s actual birthday, to celebrate her life at the Brewster Ladies Library with the Beatrix Potter Society and 400 like-minded Girlfriends where I will be reading the story of my first trip to Hilltop from my book and signing A Fine Romance Falling in Love with the English Countryside. So excited! And humbled. and thrilled. And will probably cry.
That makes sense to me. Thank goodness there are so many.💛
Hello you adorable thing. . . if anyone will be on the Island on the 25th of August, I’ll be doing my last talk and signing in the USA (for this year) for Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams, for the Aquinnah Library at the Old Town Hall in Aquinnah at 5 pm. 📚 It’s free, so you would just show up and voila!
THANK YOU GIRLFRIENDS. For everything. Have the most wonderful day! XOXO 💚 Love you!
Thank you for the visit via your newsletter. The artwork, recipes and thoughts are enjoyed and loved reading about Beatrix Potter. I so enjoy her books and illustrations and read them to my children. It was wonderful to learn more about her.
Looks like a great family vacation in a beautiful place. We love Colorado! I bet it was good to get back home too- at least that’s how I always feel. :). Have a great weekend!
Peter Rabbit was the first book I read to all my kids when they were little-there is just something so endearing about bunnies in knickers!
Love reading your posts- thank you Susan!
Dear Susan, So enjoyed reading your windup of your wonderful trip and your settling back in at home. Even though I live in Vermont I received a signed Isle of Dreams book from your Austin stop. Thankful for your wonderful words and drawings, the internet and the USPS for that ! God bless you and Joe always. Vicki in Vermont
Joy of joy! Your blog and a chance to waddle with Jemima Puddleduck!
Thank you for thinking of us and letting us dream a little of having one of your treasures!
Iam so glad you added a little lamb drawing !!! The wonderful little lambs are so precious to me! However, Jemima Puddleduck is THIS CLOSE to being as wonderful . I would just love to add her to my collection.
Your father raised a wonderful child! God bless you and yours.n I have all of your books and love your blogs. Would love to travel to England….my step grandfather was English and wonderful. His sister and family (she married and her husband was Lord Mayor of Winchester, England) and opened their home during the 2nd world war to wounded American servicemen. I remember sending them “care packages” that we collected by saving food stamps. So proud of them! Take care and keep writing. Love seeing everything thru your eyes. God Bless you and your family. Hugs…Vivian
So enjoyed A Fine Romance. That’s probably the closest I’ll get to visiting England and Beatrix Potter’s Hilltop. It was enough, thank you.
Your cranberry cake sounds a little like my Nantucket Cranberry pie. My birthday is one day before Beatrix Potter, we are Lions! Your family reunion sounds like a lot of fun. Thanks for your lovely pictures that always comfort me, thanks for being you.
Thank you for this post! Beatrix Potter was truly amazing and has made our lives enchanting.
Lovely post! Our oldest son is living and studying in England right now. He shares a birthday with Beatrix Potter; he also loves to write and is a wonderful speaker! To win the giveaway would be icing on the cake!
Oh welcome home! Summer has been too busy and is going too quickly and I made myself sit down and really read this wonderful post, and then all of the delightful comments. Happy birthday to Miss Potter! I have my own little rabbit in my back yard this summer, she eats all of the dandelion leaves and comes out for a visit when I take the time to sit and wait for her.
Welcome Home Susan and Joe. It’s time for kitty hugs and kisses!! Thank you for sharing your family pictures, I love family photos. Susan, I ordered the DVD called Miss Potter and the book Peter rabbit today on Beatrix’s 150th Birthday. My friends and I are having a movie night next week to celebrate!
Sooo, excited..
JOY! I’m so thrilled to have found you. Reading your book, “Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams”. I’ve only been there once, but it’s left an imprint on my soul… I so long to return some day. I feel I’ve found a kindred spirit in you. The passions we share are uncanny! But then, I’m sure you get that a lot! I thought of you today when I learned it was Beatrix Potter’s Birthday. Serendipity that I found your blog today, on this, her Name Day! Thank you for sharing her birthday with us. Can’t wait to try the CranberryTea Cake. What a Blessing this day has been.
Nice to meet you Lois! I know, I tell everyone it’s dangerous to visit Martha’s Vineyard, it can steal your heart and make you homesick for the rest of your life. xoxo
How true… homesick is exactly how I feel about Martha’s Vineyard. I often look back on my visit, oh so long ago, with deep yearning. Hopefully, I’ll make it back before I’m too bloody old to get there‼️ Anyway, welcome back from your delightful holiday. I know your fur family is thrilled you’re home 😻. I’m off to finish morning fur/feather family duties 🐶🐱🐓… they’re telling me it’s time to close up the laptop! Mornings are a whirlwind here in the hills of New Richmond, OH. Have a bonny day🌾.
Hulloooo. Sure good to hear of the Rocky Mountain high reunion. And would sure enjoy the Vana give always! Welcome back!
Hi, Susan!
Glad your family reunion wss such a success! It’s precious and healing to spend time with dear family!
I am also a Beatrix Potter fan….I have a few little figurines that make me smile every day…
Here’s to a rousing finale to your whirlwind US tour. Tell me though, when do you take the UK by storm, and do a book tour there??
Not really a book tour, but a BYO Picnic Basket Party … I’ll be on a blanket on the lawn in Stourhead, in Wiltshire at 12 noon on September 18, with my cucumber sandwiches hoping lots of my British/European/American/Worldwide Girlfriends will come say hello. No books for sale, but everyone can bring theirs from home if they’d like them signed. Party in England!
I wish I was going to be there! A UK trip would be a trip of a lifetime for this Irish/Scot Lass!
Have fun, both you and your Joe!
So sorry for the loss of your father. You are always so kind with your support of others. And I have been a recipient of your kindness when I loss my parents. You are never alone.
Bless your heart, and thanks girlfriend !
Kathy
There is no beauty like that created by the MasterArtist . How blessed we are to soak in such goodness. I’m so glad you had such a special time with your family.
Most definitely will try the tea cake. Your stories and illustrations never fail to make me smile & inspire. It is a dream of mine to visit MV. I love New England. I am in Ohio.
Dear Susan, My heartfelt sympathy on the passing of your dear Daddy; what a very special man!! By the looks of “the equipment” your nephew has that spunk too!! 👌👌 And your twin nephews grew, cute as ever! You’re veeery good to your girlfriends, sharing so much, & we are inspired!! Wherever Jemima lands, I hope she brings her “just some silliness” with her!! 💗
I love you Susan Branch. I feel we are kindred spirits on so many levels. Love all your books. Just finished Fairy Tale Girl and could not believe all the wonderful adventures you experienced. One of my favorite discoveries in the book was the mention & photo of the Whole Earth Catalog. I thought I was the only one in the world who ever bought one or knew of it. Everyone I’ve ever ask about it did not have a clue as to what I was talking about. I kept it for years and finally tossed it. I regret it to this day.
I know how you feel!
Love Beatrix Potter
I love everything about every one of your posts. Thank you for sharing your charming life with the rest of us!
Susan,
I bought a whole set of Beatrix Potter books for my new Great Nephew, Jack. He was born July 5, 2016. I know I will be reading them to him.
I finished your book, Martha’s Vineyard Isle of dreams last night. I loved it. Your pictures of the towns has brought back memories of our one day trip to the island 3 years ago. I hope to visit again someday and stay longer.
Nancy R. (Penna)
I really enjoyed the photo of Miss Potter. She truly was an amazing woman. I would love to see Hilltop Farm one of these days and win the book about her life plus the little Puddle Duck. I also have the movie about her life so thank you, Susan for sharing all of this.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEATRIX!! <3
And soon, a much needed break for you, my dear, from travel. Domesticate to your heart's content. We are thinking of you constantly and so grateful to have a new blog post. Enjoy the rest of summer on your sweet island.
Much Love,
Diane Marie
How beautiful! Visiting the Lake District is on my bucket list! It looks as magical as her stories ❤️
Darling Susan,
So happy for you to be home to restore your heart and soul at an unhurried and comfortable pace that feels just right for you (of course a couple of off-island jaunts are fun knowing Home Sweet Home is only a ferry ride away).
xoxo Didi from Colorado
p.s. Happy Early Birthday to Sweet Gentleman Joe.
Yes! Time to plan the Birthday Party for my guy!
Happy Birthday to Mr Wonderful, Joe Hall. Who I love because he makes my friend so so happy and because he is a constant source of fake jealousy (over his handiness and ability to make Christmas wreaths and picket fence gardens) between my husband and I and for those 2 cheek kisses he gave me in June (swoon) that have caused endless laughter and teasing between us. (An older gentleman recently kissed me on the top of my head after sitting next to me on the plane. Tom claims I’m making out with any guy over 60:) So if we happen to walk by anyone 60 + he grabs my arm and pretends he is holding me back and the older they are the more he struggles. Maybe no one finds this as funny as we do, but there are times I am sure I might tinkle my pants. I don’t know how I got so lucky) Might there be a post dedicated to Joe or would he not like that?
You are making me laugh Charissa … I copied and saved your comment for Joe when he gets up!! I love Tom! What a riot! Not sure what Joe would say about a whole post about him. He gets better about “public stuff” all the time, as you could see when he’s kissing you at the book signings! He used to hide, or go sit somewhere and read his paper! No more, he’s like the belle of the ball now!
I had an inkling that he was a little like my husband, darling one on one and in small known groups, but never wanting to be the center of attention. Tom would easily go read the paper somewhere too. I brought Joe’s book to the British Emporium and he signed it for me. That’s how I got the cheek kiss. I am forever grateful. He is just as darling as you are. Just another thing I tease Tom about as he (Joe) is an author and wonderful chef. You should have seen the look when I brought Joe’s book home for the first time. I might have told you already, but I just left it out and Tom flipped through it and said how good it looked and couldn’t wait for me to make something. Then I told him to look who it was by… oh my … the shouting and laughter;) Some mild curse words and then mumbling about how Joe is trying to make him look bad and no man can live up to this guy etc. He really is in awe of his skill sets. But Tom has his own great skill sets and I am the luckier one in this relationship!!! Happy birthday to Joe from Texas with love!!!
LOL, a girl after my own heart! Torturer! xoxo Thank you Charissa!
Happy Birthday Beatrix!
Thank you Susan for celebrating the good, the cozy and the homey parts of life.
Love her illustrations and her love of nature.
Hi Susan,,,,,,I can feel the happiness in you and glad for the family reunion that gave you some needed restoration and refreshment. What a wonderful family to be in, huh? And wonderful things to come. xox Sandy 🙂
Hi Susan and Joe,
We had such a WONDERFUL time in Brewster!! We are heading home in the camper with the 3 doggies, kitty Simon, and the parrot (after we take a stop to visit Louisa May’s Orchard House
Thank you Sooooooo much for taking the personal sweet time with so so many of us!! It was so nice to meet you!!! What a lovely gathering!! 🙂 Many Blessings and Warmth, Linnie
My favorite thing in Orchard House was the little painting of the owl done by Louisa’s sister over the fireplace in her bedroom. Lovely family home. THANK YOU all for coming to see me . . . your fellow travelers make it a story all by itself. 😃
I just love Beatrix Potter! I have many of the books she has written however I would sure love a figurine. And I don’t have the book you are book you have put in this lovely drawing. Would sure love to win it!!
I was so happy to read your latest blog this evening. I have missed them but am glad you had a wonderful reunion with your family. What special memories! I have always admired Beatrice Potter and I own her little books which are in a cute little slipcase but she was so much more than the books – she was an astute business woman and was not recognized at the time because she was a female. Yet I do love the little books and I would really love to own Jemima Puddleduck. Thank you!
I love Beatrix Potter and all your stories of your trips to England.
What a wonderful example Beatrice was for us!! I’m still savoring your last book. Hate to read it all up!
I love Beatrix Potter. My first grade teacher shared her books with us, and I’ll never forget the beautiful Peter Rabbit mural she painted on the wall.
You are so blessed to have a big and loving family. I’m glad you had a fun time with them.
I always look forward to your chatty posts, and especially the pictures of favorite kitty kat. Thanks for the recipe, too. It looks delish.
Blessings,
GG
Just lovely. Thank you for sharing as always ~
Its wonderful that your whole family was able to get together to enjoy each other and share your dad’s love.
I do look forward to hearing all about your trip in the fall.
I love Beatrix Potter’s books. I like the stories and how she brings the little animals into the stories.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
I have always loved and admired Beatrix Potter, especially once I found out she was a conservationist (my vocation), a sheep breeder and judge (I was a dairy farmer) and a scientist. How wonderful that you have introduced her to so many new fans. My summer reading series has been all three Susan Branch books. They only thing I love more than curling up with them every evening is giving them to my family and girlfriends.
Thank you Lois . . . and I felt the same way learning Beatrix’s life story, and all the things she was. We need more of her, more of YOU! xoxo
So sorry for your loss. Glad your family could come together in Colorsdo.
I loved your 3 books and enjoyed hearing you speak in Prescott AZ.
I also enjoy every blog post and Willard. Thank you very much for sharing.
Dear Susan, so glad you’re back, safe and sound! What precious memories to share with you family…as you all carry on the joyful, adventurous spirit your father shared with each of you. My heart is saddened to know of the loss you and your family are experiencing, but we hold you and yours in our prayers. May you continue to find peace and strength in the beauty and grace of all that surrounds you. 🙏🏻
I would have loved to join you and all the Girlfriends in Cape Codgathering earlier today to celebrate Beatrix Potter’s birthday. I can just imagine how special this gathering was. I’m just so very thankful I was able to share an evening with you in Asheville (me and my whole family!). 🌟
In gratitude for all the beauty and grace you share with the world,
Samantha
Susan, your home!!! It was fun seeing you in Kansas City! Jemima Puddle duck is one of my favorites! Blessings to you from Kansas!
When I discovered Susan Branch, it was like I’d found a life-long friend. I have your books and calendars all throughout my home, and I’m always on the look-out for anything you’ve done. For Christmas this year, both my daughters will receive your book “Home Cooking” with recipes from both their grandmothers and from me as well. Can’t wait to see their faces as they flip through the pages and see all their childhood and adult favorite foods represented there. Thank you, Susan.
Your posts are always so lovely. You should make a book out of them. Wonder how many volumes you would have! You’ve reminded me that I want to watch “Miss Potter” again. xo
Welcome Home Susan!
So glad that you had a fun family gathering to celebrate and to honor your Dad’s life.
What an honor to speak Beatrix Potter’s actual birthday at the Brewster Ladies Library – and to help celebrate her life and her life’s work! What an amazing woman. I hope it was loads of fun and that you enjoyed yourself.
Thank you for the new recipe! Cranberry Tea Cake with Vanilla Sauce sounds delicious! Can’t wait for the next gathering of friends so I can try it!
I am excited to think that Vanna might actually select my name out of the huge virtual fishbowl of names!
oxo
Dear Susan, Thank you for the Cranberry Tea Cake recipe-looks delicious! Can’t wait to give this a try!
I absolutely adore Beatrix Potter’s delightful drawings & stories. I decorated my daughter’s bedroom in all Peter Rabbit (with a pink background, of course) when she was a little girl. She just celebrated her 34th birthday last week. All of my daughter’s Beatrix Potter books and stuffed animals are now being enjoyed by my grandchildren. I loved following your last trip through England and am thrilled that you and Joe are going back this Fall!!! I will be right there with you every step of the way!!!
Lovely blog post .I enjoy them so much and collecting your beautiful books. Thank you.
Just bought Mr. Drake Puddle-Duck (1979) at a church sale for $2…..he’s lonely without his darlin’ Jemima. Susan, you introduced me to these darling little figures. I have four now. Just like the outward ripples created by dropping a pebble in a calm pond, your shared ideas and delights circle out on and on giving so much joy. As mourning intensifies your senses, are you rediscovering all the zillion ways your Dad’s life ripples through yours? That’s the beauty of love….it settles in every nook and cranny and delights us with each discovery. May all your tears end with smiles and laughter. As always, DonnaRay
Every day DonnaRay. His life is my life now.
Happy Birthday Beatrix! And Welcome Home Susan! What a year it has been so far……can’t wait to read your new book. I appreciate the effort involved in book tours and hope you can catch your breath now that you are back on the Island. Congrats on your success and good wishes to you and yours!
Laurie A.
You folks are certainly having a busy summer! Part of the reason I don’t like to go for visits is I don’t like leaving. When I moved to California, people said, “What if you don’t like it?” And I said, “I’ll just move someplace else.” However, I’ve been here more than 30 years. My daughter and her family, and nieces and grand-nieces and nephew and great-grand…well, from your photos I know you know what I mean, live in Ohio, and I go back and visit. The last time I visited in winter, it was 18 below the morning I left and the only flights leaving were one to Vegas and my flight, thank goodness. Enough winter for me! Lately I’m reading Bill Bryson’s new book about walking around in England, ‘The Road to Little Dribbling’. He talks about how so much has changed, and much of it is quite sad. However, so far he has not mentioned Beatrix Potter. I find it hard to believe the man, a writer, can live there and walk all over and not mention Beatrix Potter; however, I’m not quite half-way through the book. If there is no mention, I shall have to write him a letter and let him know what he’s missing. Thank you for reminding me it is her birthday. I will have to watch again ‘Miss Potter’ with Renee Zellweger, and weep into my popcorn. That cake looks fabulous!
And, I’m sure there have been changes. Loss of post offices in the small towns is one. Big loss. But for me, because I’ve never lived there, seeing all the old things, the churches and houses and country lanes, the wildflowers and preserved history, the ancient pubs and castle ruins, it didn’t look like anything had changed there for the last 400 years. So don’t let his take on it worry you into thinking it’s all changed. The fact, that he can walk from town to town, on ancient paths taken since the beginning of time, before there were cars, when people carried their goods to market on foot, went to church on foot, visited on foot, that in itself is a miracle in this day and age. His cup sounds half empty! There are ways to see things and ways to not see things. XOXO Go get him Victoria 😍 !
Love Your books! The Jemima Puddleduck figurine is gorgeous.
I loved your books Susan! I read all three!
Hi Susan,
Are you settled and back into your lovely daily Home Sweet Home routine? You must be so happy to be in your own bed, soak in your own tub and love on your own kitties and get your hands into the dirt once again. Yay!
This is my 3rd try commenting…I think I may have computer problems once again. Waaaahhhhhhhh. LOL. Enjoy the rest of the summer with the soon to be birthday boy. xoxo Didi
Beautiful family! Glad you are home again and soon to be turning your sights on your trip back to England. Thank you for another fun giveaway–a girl can dream!
Family reunions are always fun! What a beautiful place to have one.
Love you, and Beatrix Potter! Glad you are safely home. Take care!😊💕🐾
I was so happy to see you again today at the Brewster Baptist church. I drove to the cape on Wednesday so I would make sure I was there in time to see you.
What a lovely party it was, I enjoyed every minute of it. I cried this time. It was so moving.
Thank you for signing all those wonderful books your girlfriends brought. I am very humbled to say I am the one who was on a walker and the ladies brought me up to you, I felt a little uncomfortable passing all those who waited in line.
What a lovey afternoon, it was so nice spending it with you.
How lovely of you to give this amazing book away, I would love to have it.
No one should have to stand for a long time when it hurts to do it! And others came up first too, some with young children, and someone pregnant. We always do it that way . . . so I hope you didn’t feel bad. I hope when my legs don’t work so good, someone will do that for me. It’s actually manners, is what I think. I loved the day too, warmed the cockles of my heart. Everyone was wonderful. And the photos on the screen, especially seeing those gorgeous pictures of the Lake District just about did me in. Had to fight back tears all afternoon. Thank you for being there Carol!
Susan, I’ll be happy to win Jemima Puddleduck but I will be more sad that you’ve given her up – you’re first Beatrix Potter ‘people.’ Why?!
Susan, glad you are home on the Island safe and sound. Looks like you had a wonderful, healing get away with your family. My Mom is spending some vacation time with me. She finished reading Isle of Dreams and asked to read my copy of Fairy Tale Girl. It’s awesome to be able to chat with her about them. She’s now part of the “club.” We watched Miss Potter tonight to celebrate Beatrix Potter’s 150th birthday…Mom’s idea!
FUN!
Beatrix Potter ‘s books always make me smile.There is just something about her simple drawings and stories that warm my heart. What beautiful books to be a part of children’s lives.
Thanks so much for all of your beautiful books and drawings. They also bring smiles to my face.
I love Ms. Potter! Very few people leave a legacy as she did, because of her the entire world changed. She was a driving force, and her country is better because of it. The world of children is blessed by her, even now, long years after she has crossed over.
We share a birthday, it is mine as well. I’d love to win! Soon and very soon, my own little grand and I will be sharing the rabbits, ducks, and tales of the country side!
What a fun post. Hill Top is an amazing place that I would happily visit again.
Susan,
I’m so very sorry about the loss of your beloved dad. I just lost my dad on April 30th. He and I were together every day, as he lived right next door to me. It is such a strange, empty feeling without him here. I am thankful for the time I had with him. Memories of your dad will comfort you. There will be good days and there will be tears, but he will always be with you. You are in my thoughts and prayers, always, but especially as you grieve your dad’s loss.
It was hardest when I was in my Dad’s house and he wasn’t there. It’s easier being far away, I can almost believe nothing has happened. Almost. It must be awful for you reminded every day he’s not where he’s always been. You too, are in my prayers, I’m so sorry, and thank you Pamela Jo.
You are right, Susan…the hardest part of my day is when I come home from work, walk up the sidewalk, and see an empty lawn chair where my dad used to sit and wait for me each day. He was always the first one to greet me and ask about my day. That hurts the most. I still look at his chair and talk to him. I believe he hears me, even now that he is gone. Deep love lives on through eternity. I am fortunate to still have my mom with me. I treasure our time together, now, more than ever. Thank you for your prayers!
Sending you HUGS Pamela Jo xoxo
I have refallen in love with the Potter figurines. I need to start looking for them in stores. Would love one to start the collection.
💐Susan, I love your art, recipes and blog! 🎉You have God-given talent! 😘Thank you for the opportunity to win the Beatrix Potter figurine!🍀 Safe travels to Cape Vod and back!😎
Thank you for the wonderful post. Your reunion looked like so much fun. Big families are the best! Can’t wait to try this recipe it looks so good especially with the cream in the bowl!
Such sweetness fills this post!! Thank you for blessing us over and over.
Welcome home! And Happy birthday BP!❤️
I have seen the movie portraying Beatrix Potter’s life. So fascinating and inspiring to this aspiring writer. She was such a visionary. I love reading your posts with all the photos. I believe I have a collection of all your books now, and you have also inspired me to get out my watercolors to create anew. Blessings from The Northwest!
I love reading your blog and look forward to your new updates. I just recently ordered the Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter and look forward to reading!
Reading your blogs are like visiting with an old
friend!! I always enjoy them so much!! :-). And
about Beatrix Potter. I have a book of Peter
Rabbit stories that I have currently started reading
to my five week old grandson!! 🙂 I doubt he understands
the words now, but we are starting a tradition that I
hope he enjoys for years to come!! 🙂
Susan, I just finished reading “Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams”. I enjoyed it very much! I divorced around the same time as you and I also think the Lord used working on fixing up my home to rescue me. Thank you for sharing your story!
So glad you had great family time. Now I hope you can rest up for the next BIG trip that we are all looking forward to. Thanks for sharing!
Emma
Pick me Vanna! I hope you have seen the Beatrix Potter movie. It’s just delightful! You’ll
LOVE it!
The story of Beatrix Potter is so fascinating and amazing – just like YOU Susan Branch❤️‼️
❌⭕️
I just bought a book about Beatrix Potter in Scotland. I don’t know if I already commented. Hope it’s ok.
Just fine, Vanna knows to only choose one if there are more than one comment by a person!
Oh what a lovely day of celebration and a giveaway to boot! If only I was so lucky! I love her too!
Thanks, Susan, for sharing your family reunion photos with us. Looks like it was exceptional fun. I was so sad to hear about your Dad—you had lots of fond memories of him, though—hope those continue to warm your heart. Thanks also for inspiring me to visit Hilltop Farm on my three week journey through Britain last September. It was great to meet you at the booksigning in Kansas City. Have another brilliant trip to Britain this fall—-we all look forward to hearing about it.
Hello Susan, it was real nice seeing you in Pasadena at Vroman’s Book Store. I’m looking forward in hearing about your trip this fall to the Lakt Disrict. My husband plan on taking a trip to Scottland fall 2017. Afterwards we plan on staying I n the Lake District at a VBRO. If you know a good place to stay please let me know. Happy travels.
Happy Birthday Beatrix Potter and Welcome Home Susan Branch – two phenomenal women! I’d love to be entered into your drawing, thank you!
I shared all of Beatrix Potter’s books with my own children and took
the same books and shared with first graders for 26 years. The joy in their
eyes and smiles on their faces couldn’t be duplicated. Hopefully those grown-up first graders still know those joys and smiles and possibly share those memorable stories.
So glad your time with your family was blessed.
Seems just precious that this week you will be able to refuel some with the celebration of Beatrix and her love of the land and the simple joys of the heart and hearth.
xxoo
Susan,
Sorry I missed you in Morro Bay.
Can hardly wait to try the cranberry recipe.
So enjoy your blogs.
Have a fun weekend.
Hugs,
Mary Reece
Loved your picture of the moon over the lake. Beautiful! What fun you all were having. Where did you find the swan raft? Love your books. Have read A Fine Romance three times. That would be a dream come true to take a trip like that. Have a happy day celebrating Beatrice Potter’s birthday.
Meant to say I live in Colorado but haven’t heard of that lake . Where is it located?
Really close to Durango.
So love your blogs. What lucky kids to go with you and Joe on Queen E. To England!
Luckier us. Best trip ever was with them, they were so wonderful.
Like any good teacher, you’ve inspired me to explore. Well beyond the blogs and books, I have checked out Beatrice biographies at the library, researched train travel, dipped my fingers in embroidery, reread your cookbooks, researched living on an Island, listened to some golden oldies, and the list goes on. Thank You.
Life is good! 💛Bringing it home xoxo
I love all the Beatrix Potter books and today I am in London (so thrilled) and get to go to the Victoria and Albert Museum to see a special exhibit of her original drawings and stories that she wrote! Unfortunately will not be able to get to get to her home but this is almost as good. I will be thinking of you and all the other girlfriends who share this love of a Peter Rabbit and “friends”.
Welcome Home Susan! I look forward to watching the movie about Beatrix Potter, thank you for continuing her legacy!
😊💖🌸💙🌻💜🌹💚🎶💛🌟✨💤💤💫💫 Hello Sweet Sue… It’s 2:00 am & I’m Wide Awake….So I’m Sipping Hot~Chocolate (With Marshmallows) Reading Your Blog & Savoring Every Word Looking at Each Photo…..Earlier I Was In Twitterville & Looked At Your Tweets Wow What A Wonderful Celebration For Beatrix~Potter!!! I Know She Is Very Honored & Proud…..Such A Turn~Out Tis Mind~Boggling! 🙂 Your Family Is Beautiful….Thank~You For Sharing Them With Us….Yawn….I Think I’m Finally Getting Sleepy….So I Shall Say Nite~Nite Sweet~Dreams Have a Peaceful~Relaxing~Weekend Sweet Sue & Joe & Girl~Kitty & Jack….Can You Believe It’s The End Of July??? Yikes!!! xoxo Poof! 😊💖🌸💙🌻💜🌹💚🎶💛🌟✨💤💤💫💫 P.S We Welcome In August!!! Amazing! P.P.S An Early…Rabbit~Rabbit 😊💖🌸💙🌻
Happy birthday, Miss Potter!
I just had to go and find “Miss Potter” and watch it again today. I love how they animated her animals for the movie. Such a sweet tribute. Glad you are home and safe. It’s a year of traveling, isn’t it, for you? Well, enjoy it all you can. It’s a wonderful pasttime and blessing to wander the earth, finding “rarified air”. Love you. Kathie in Odessa (It was 106 degrees here today; we’ve gone into a sort of hibernation! Summer hibernation!)
I have one Beatrix Potter Peter Rabbit that was given to me by a friend before he passed as he knew of my fondness of Peter Rabbit. I do so treasure it. My mother was from Wales and I was able to visit once. Your journeys bring back such happy times when I read them. Thank you.
Beatrix Potter has always been someone I’ve admired and wished I could be, like you Susan!! You both are so talented at art and life!! What a dream come true to see where she lived and walk around that beautiful land. Thank you for taking us along.
Happy you are home safe. I’m sure your kitties are so happy you are home again.
Take care!!
I should win the book because my birthday is July 28 too! And my husband says if I were an animal, I would be Beatrix Potter’s hedgehog, “Mrs. Tiggy Winkle,” because I’m always doing laundry as she does. 🙂
Would love to win the book and give it to my daughter as she plans to go next year. Wish I could go to and see that beautiful countryside.