Hello Everyone, yes, we’re still in England, but not for much longer! On our way home soon. 🏡 But ever since our election, I’ve had a hard time sleeping, I can’t turn off my brain, I wake up thinking about it, and go to sleep worrying about it. Finally I turn to the cure, I’m going to work it over in my mind by writing about it. It’s not that I have any secrets from you. I usually see my blog as a happy place, even as an escape from the negativity these days, where kindred spirits gather to talk about the little things that make life wonderful, things we all have in common. And, until recently, I always thought
And I have done it, risen above reality, quite easily throughout most of my life. When bad things happen, I go to the garden and pick a few flowers, make a cup of tea, get under my nap blanket with an old movie, and I feel better. I put away the disappointment I feel for the direction of the world and go knit my 89th scarf instead. I invite friends to dinner, light candles, pour wine, play beautiful MUSICA that fits my mood and forget. Even during 9-11, the worst, most intrusive example of man’s inhumanity to man, followed 
by all the other ones since, I could turn on Shirley Temple or Fred Astaire and slowly but surely, be healed. Maybe this made me a shallow person, but I didn’t see it that way. I saw it as a “take charge” of my life gesture, and it has always worked (except once, Sandy Hook 😥). But what has just happened to our country, I fear, is a 9-11 in very slow motion…no Shirley Temple movie is going to help. Where this election will take us, as a people, is still to be seen. And I have to talk about it. Please try to read this, because it comes from my heart. It’s not so much about the election, but more about us, and this angry world we live in.
See this photo, this room full of anything-but-angry Girlfriends? This and the photos below are the wonderful faces of some of the people that Joe and I had the privilege of meeting while crossing the country in the Fine Romance 
Van this last spring. I have no idea what political party they affiliate with, and I honestly don’t care. Because that’s only one small part of who a person is, and these people were so giving, kind, and filled with light . . . and we have so much in common! I would much rather concentrate on that . . . I could write a book about our commonalities! Oh yes, I forgot, I have! I’ve always known it from the wonderful letters I’ve received over the years, my whole life is based 
on it. We love our families and our best friends, we love nurturing them. We love to decorate our houses, make curtains and pillows, pick wildflowers for vases, because we all agree, home is where the heart is. We fold clothes, warm from the dryer, on the kitchen table (sometimes we wrap our kids or husbands up in them), we call each other to catch up, bake cookies and birthday cakes, feed our beloved pets, make Thanksgiving dinner, welcome family home with open arms, work hard, get the kids to school, put their drawings on the fridge, give to charity, mourn our lost loves, count our many blessings and are so grateful we have this amazing opportunity and gift to be able to do these little things that make life so very sweet.💞 We know how quickly everything can change and we are grateful for a normal day.
These days though, another thing we have in common, we worry. Mostly for our children and grandchildren in this changing world ~ we want them to hold on to the look in this little girl’s eyes for as long as possible, to grow up free as the wind, 
so tenderly careful never to touch butterfly wings, never experiencing war, sure that all things in our world are right and good. We want them to read books, embrace honesty, integrity, and ethics, have the very best education possible so the stars are the limit, honor family traditions, lay under trees, watch the leaves fall, dream, and 
feel perfectly free to reach for the moon and make this world a better place because I’ve never met a child who didn’t wish to do that. Every one of us wants our families to receive the best health care, and none of us want to see our parents grow old, destitute and alone. I don’t care which political party we’re from. Or even which country. Right? Isn’t that who we are as human beings, all of us? It’s what I believe.
Some of us are Catholic, some of us are Methodist, Jewish, or Muslim, and some of us have no religion at all, but that’s okay, because we respect freedom of religion as our forefathers, those we honor on Veterans Day, have fought so hard to preserve. We aren’t afraid of people that are different from us. We know their children will be bullied in school if we adults do not stand up for the rights of their parents. No child should ever be bullied because of some crazy adult thing. And common sense tells us, you can’t hold a person down without staying down there with him. And it’s our intention to rise and rise together. Right? One world, one people? Our grandmothers taught us that we’re going to disagree with people, but to be respectful, don’t throw our trash in other people’s yards, and remember that religion and politics are taboo subjects in mixed company and good manners means that sometimes we just keep our mouths shut.
💛
If A is success in life, then A equals X plus Y plus Z. Work is X; Y is play; and Z is keeping your mouth shut. 💛Albert Einstein
We might be Republicans or Democrats, but until the last few years, we’ve always believed we were on the same American team, trying to make a better country. We agree that we’d like to use our tax money to have safe bridges, clean water, good schools. Despite what we are told by a divisive media, we do want the same things, Yes we do, and are mostly just exactly alike. And that is true for peace-loving, garden-planting, women and men of all backgrounds, in all countries. Imagine waking up each morning not knowing if your child will make it home from school 
alive. Not knowing if men with machine guns will pop in the door of your little house with the one flower in the vase. Really imagine it, because it’s like that for some women in the world, women just exactly like the ones in these photos, people like us, who never stop dreaming of a better world. We are so lucky to live the way we do. To knit Christmas presents, make soup, take the kids to a movie. To go to tea parties wearing a new hat. All the joyful little things that make life so wonderful.
But our peace is under threat. We are being torn apart from within. I can tell you for 100% sure, no one in any of these photos hates America, whether she’s from Iowa, California, Arizona, Texas, Utah, Oklahoma, New York, or Wisconsin or all of the lovely places in-between. You know it, and I know it. Believing they do hurts our country. The people who tell us one part of the country is BETTER or WORSE than another, is a traitor to his country. His purpose is to rip us apart when he does that. It’s cruel and wrong, it has not a single American value in it, and if I was queen I would put these people in rehab (on a desert island). They do it for money. Look closely at those faces, we all love our country. We are good people, all of us. Anyone who tells you different is lying. That’s the first thing I wanted to clear up.
“Reporting is expensive, and making stuff up costs nothing.” 😜 BBC
But something has clearly changed when we elect a President of the United States who 
admits grabbing women by their private parts. I don’t care about one political thing, but that statement was a knife in my heart. That was the moment I said to myself, “Done.” Because it tells our young men that we condone this, it tells our daughters they are nothing. There is not one honorable thing in it, it is against everything I want the world to be. I would be very surprised if we didn’t all agree on this too no matter who we voted for. When I think of women in other countries who are buried in the dirt up to their necks and stoned to death for not following the local rules, and remember how hard we’ve fought for respect in this country, my heart bleeds and I cry very sad tears.
So what changed and when? Our country didn’t always suffer from so much divisiveness. Our media didn’t always take us to the lowest common denominator. I know, because I’ve been around a long time. When I was in high school, whether you were a Republican or a Democrat did not matter a bit. Most of us didn’t even know what we were. When did half of us become “the other” and the other half become “reviled?” How did this knife get driven into the heart of our country, dividing us like we are today? How did we all get so hurt, because both sides are very hurt by this. And, with all this glorifying of negativity, this shamelessness, how do we raise our children? How do we teach them? How do we take care of the sick and dying? How do we live and work together in peace?
How’d it happen? I think I know because I watched it unfold. Age is very good for this type of thing. It began for real in 1988. . . when radio and TV talk shows (on stations owned by huge political corporations) starting using fear, 
telling people that half of us were trying to undermine America by doing things like getting rid of Christmas (which is the MOST ridiculous thing I ever heard, no one ever wanted to do that, breaks my heart to think anyone would believe it), that our leaders, our media, were “not to be trusted” — that only THEY could be trusted. And guess what, fear worked! And radio talk proliferated, and moved to television. This kind of media, with their 24/7 brainwashing, was allowed because of a change in the law called the Fairness Doctrine in 1987. Turns out the people doing the talking were cheating on their wives, having affairs in bathroom stalls in airports, were addicted to 
drugs, yet the very things they would blame on “others.” They told us Obama wasn’t born in this country. They said he is a muslim (as a fear tactic). These days they are starting to call this Fake News. They’ve lied to us a thousand times, and yet, for some reason (due to a myriad of personal experiences) many of us believe them, and, slowly, over the years, we have allowed them to tear us in two. Because there wasn’t anything we could say. We couldn’t stop them, they gained strength and filled the airwaves with this stuff. Now it’s all over social media. Families are being torn apart, friendships are ending, violence is occurring. It’s not getting better, and no one knows what to think. Or, we think we do.
I used to imagine it didn’t matter who became president, because if I turned off the news, I couldn’t see how it made an actual difference to my life. Sun still came up, trash was picked up in same big trucks, street lights still worked. Then two things occurred. First, 
good paying jobs began going to other countries where people could work for a lot less. Our little towns were robbed of our small businesses, some look like ghost towns now, because they could not compete with large corporations such as Walmart who bought everything cheaply-made from foreign countries. (And, to be fair, we forgot to notice that we supported them by flocking to their stores.) In my art licensing business, in the years just after 2000, so many manufacturers closed, I was no longer able to license my products, the jammies, or the 
dishes, the way I used to…there was no one to make them anymore. All the money that used to go into the hands of small bookstores, publishers, editors, printers, authors, PR people, and agents, and most importantly, their families (who spent that money supporting other small businesses), now goes into the hands of just one person, Jeff Bezos, who owns Amazon. Yes, a billionaire is born every minute, to the exclusion of the rest of us. Everyone was affected by this mass abandonment by our government and big business who had gotten their successes on our backs. Our middle class was having the rug pulled out from under it. It was going away. ALL of us felt it! Then they had the nerve (and greed) to invent Black Friday and open stores on Thanksgiving (no, young ones, Black Friday is NOT an “American Tradition” despite that they tell us it is). There was a time when corporations felt a duty toward the country and the people that supported them. But no more. We’re losing our American way of life. We’re all in the same boat, together, the people on the coasts, the mid-west, the south, the coal miners, the manufacturing towns. And we put up with it. But we are mad. And media and the powers that be used our anger to divide us even further. It’s not US, it’s THEM.
Then in 2008, the banks walked away with all our money, they foreclosed on us and our neighbors who had done nothing more but applied for and were granted a loan from a bank, and walked away with retirements and pensions. Zip, too bad, gone. They were bailed out with OUR TAX MONEY (but not any for the foreclosed-upon), and the powers that be did absolutely NOTHING about it, news media did nothing, talk news ignored it. I have never 
been so upset with government in my life. Someone should have gone to jail. Someone should still go to jail. None of my friends got through it unscathed. It’s become much harder for everyone to make ends meet. It’s not just you. It’s not just your imagination. We are all worried sick about what will happen to us when we get too old to work, or if we get really sick. Most of us, including me, now work for nothing most of the time, and 
steal money from the retirement funds we’ve managed to put by, to make ends meet, still trying our best, adapting, the only way we know how. New graduates from colleges and universities are hurting, young people saddled with massive debt that the government gets interest on (btw, university in France and other countries is free, we could most definitely have that too, if it wasn’t for the large faction of our legislators that are trying to convince us now that we don’t need a Department of Education in this country) and these kid’s lives have a hopelessness to them that we never felt. These are our children, and words such as “Liberal” or “Conservative,” used as poison darts have NOTHING to do with it. Some things should not be politicized. They have undermined our beautiful American middle class. There is plenty of money in this country, it’s OUR money, and our government officials, corporations and media are using it to enrich themselves, through changes in laws, tax codes, and sadly, war. It’s our money, it should be used to make America better.
I hope I haven’t lost any of you. I want more than anything to figure a way to bring us together. I speak right out of a broken heart. There is common ground in every single subject and we are so sensible, and so like minded, kindred spirits can always, always find a way. 💙 But not unless we can see the truth that we are being used, divided, and conquered. 
Who’s in charge, who are the powers that be, who are the ruling class in this country? It’s not just the President, or congress, it’s the guys behind the scene, it’s the CEO of Walmart 
and every large corporation in America, the heads of CNN, CBS, FOX, oil companies and insurance companies, drug companies, chemical companies, bankers, and all their lobbyists that work behind the scenes making sure the laws are written to make them richer and happier. It’s the media and talk radio that have realized that they become richer and more powerful by separating us. And they are willing to say 
anything to do it. They tell us they are the “true news,” the only believable ones, and they use fear, the cruelest of all, that Isis (or whatever the fear is because they make up tons of them) is coming into YOUR town to GET YOU, and that they are the only ones that can save us. They tell us that people (the other, who just might be your family member or your next door neighbor) who disagree with them are Godless, or hicks, or racist, violent, or anything they want and tell stories to back it up. Problem is, it’s legal to say 
anything in this country. You can go in, make a fake newspaper, put a fake article in it, put it on your website, all fake and newspapery-like and say it’s true. And it’s really hard to tell the difference between fake and real these days. And some websites are so inflammatory, using despicable language, frightening everyone into fearful action, when what is needed is slow, thoughtful contemplation based on truth and fact. We don’t trust anything anymore. Friends and families are being torn apart by these lies, and our country is being torn asunder from within. Our beautiful country. I know this is strong, but I don’t care, I call this treason.
Imagine a town meeting: I’m sure many of you have attended them, so you recognize the process: the town identifies a need, a water system or stop sign at the corner of Park and Main, something. So they hash it over in the most boring way possible, what’s the best way to get what they need, how do they find the money for it, etc…and then, the town votes, and they SOLVE the problem between them, and the water system gets updated, the stop sign gets put in, and the town is better.👏
Your national government should work exactly the same. But if half the people refuse to deal with the other half, nothing gets done, your air turns dirty, your water becomes poisoned, your health care is taken away, your education system gets dismantled, your bridges fall down, regulation goes away so big business doesn’t have to tell you what additives they put in your food or how much lead is in your water. And who benefits from all that? Because definitely someone does, and it isn’t us.
We have to work together. Because there is a way to bring America back together, but not with all this name calling and fake news. And saying it’s okay because the other guy did it first, doesn’t help. The buck must stop with each of us. Turn off the radio. 
Just say no. Don’t believe everything you hear. If there is an issue, follow it through to see who is benefiting from the divisions it causes. A very good place for that is C-Span, it’s a little boring because it sticks to facts, but it lets you see all sides of issues and decide for yourself. It doesn’t lie. Your presence in your government doesn’t end with your vote for president. Watch your congress. Watch them like hawks. Don’t let anyone TELL you what they do, see it for yourself. Many of them (not all!!!) are selling us out. Doing NOTHING for the people, giving all our tax dollars to the lobbyists for the large corps. We are alike, we are Americans, we sink or swim together, and what we provide for our fellow citizens through laws we all work to make together, in jobs, healthcare, affordable housing, clean water, the best education, internet and hospitals for small towns not only brings up our country, it brings up our children, and it brings up the world.
We are being kept apart by an evil force that we need to join together to fight. Please, 
believe in each other, please don’t believe in these voices using us for, when it comes right down to it, money. They take our tax money and give it to each other, while we are fighting about stupid things, they manage not to spend it on the things we want, those schools, those roads, a VA that works for our lost and suffering veterans . . . they ignore us completely, pay lip service, and all the money, OUR money, goes to wars that we don’t want or ask for, to make up for the taxes that corporations don’t pay. And at this point in time the 
ruling class, media, government and corporations are in cahoots against we the people.
Not to throw out the baby with the bath water, because there are several wonderful politicians/people who are in it for all the right reasons. Of course these good ones are first to be demonized by the media. A politician that they can’t control is a bad one as far as they are concerned and has to go. If one of them chooses to vote for gun control, the NRA does everything in its considerable power to unseat that person no matter what his or her other achievements 
have been. The NRA, therefore, runs our country, not us. (And don’t go crazy here, nobody and I mean nobody, wants to take away everyone’s guns, that’s another lie, but who needs machine guns in the hands of crazy people or children? Lovely to be in England where people don’t have guns, and go to the movies, and be perfectly sure that no one will begin to mow everyone down.) And yes, politicians with that kind of bravery, who put their jobs on the line for doing the right thing, are few and far between. We should find the good ones, check backgrounds, find out what they’ve stood for, and bring them forward. It’s not what they SAY, it’s what they DO. But if our elected officials divide us, refuse to work on behalf of the country we love, we should vote them out of office.
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Americans are WONDERFUL friendly, hard working, generous, creative people. Don’t believe ANYONE who tells you differently. Our country does not have to be made great again, it is already the greatest country on earth. This bit about some of our United States being filled with “hicks” and some filled with “elites” makes me sick, they are doing this to separate us and we are letting them.
We have to outsmart them. If the media outlet you’re listening to tells you your neighbor thinks you are stupid, laugh in their face and say, “You must think I’m stupid if you think I believe that malarky.” 
If they tell you, “They don’t think like you,” “or those people are baby killers,” or “Christianity is under attack,” be aware that these are total and complete lies, they make it all up because our laws say they can and no one can stop them. If they blame Mexicans, Jews, African Americans, Iranians, Muslims, whoever, it’s because they want to separate us. Remember, Timothy McVeigh who blew up the Murrah building in Oklahoma City was a white Christian American. Terrorists come in all colors and from all countries. You and your neighbor are in the exact same boat, and the powers that be want to OWN the boat and will SINK it if they have to. Government has limits. It’s not supposed to be in charge of religion (they honestly don’t care about it, they use it to divide), it’s supposed to be in charge of roads.
Trump was appealing because he sounds like change, and at least he spoke to our total national frustration with the ruling class that shipped our jobs off-shore (even though he manufactures all his products in China), and let the banks walk away with our national treasure, foreclosing on people (hardworking citizens of this country) to whom they had approved loans because they thought they could get away with it (then blaming it on them), and the truth is WE ALL FEEL THAT WAY, no matter WHO we voted for. We all feel the need for change. But, unfortunately, electing this divisive man, a billionaire who told us that if he lost, the election would have been rigged, thereby inviting violence between the American People, for whom he was purporting to work, was not the answer. It is the saddest day America has ever seen. It’s the loss of presidential nobility, honor, honesty, integrity, truth, justice and the American way I lament. 😥 I know some of you disagree with me, and you have every right to do that, and write about it on your own blogs. But you can’t disagree with some of the things he has said and done. I see the election of Trump as the culmination of massive amounts of misinformation coupled with total frustration at the system. Everyone has a right to vote they way they see fit. Remember, I’m still here in England. I JUST basically woke up to this, and I’m torn apart. What has happened to us? There has to be more to this than meets the eye, this wall building that Mexico’s going to pay for, this “Lock Her Up” rhetoric, I don’t believe he will do these things. It will unfold. If Trump puts people in his cabinet that are on the side of We the people, I will be thrilled and happy. But if it ends up as all deal-maker conmen billionaires, heads of corporations that have been running this country for years anyway, I will be heartbroken even further than I am now. 
Yes, we desperately needed change and Hillary should have said, “I will jail the people that stole our national treasure, I will stop us from subsidizing corporations for taking our jobs overseas (that money will go to rebuild our infrastructure and fix health care), and I will raise taxes on corporations. I will work for the people.” Obama, instead of trying to “make nice” when he got into office, should 
have had opened a huge investigation into the banks. Banks should have been broken up. Drug makers should go to jail for overcharging us. Insurance companies should be prosecuted for not being there when we need them. But he wanted to soften the rhetoric between the parties, so instead he went to work saving the auto industry … he tried to be a healer, but the congress had vowed not to work with him, and in the end, he missed the boat. Hillary is also more of a hawk than I would personally like. She voted for that ruinous war we were lied into. But at least I know her as an honorable person. Despite the fake stories, she is not a murderer, she has worked hard all her life to make a better world. At least she tried to talk about roads and schools and children’s health. And, sadly, the powers that be (which even includes foreign governments like Putin) would rather see a man in office, no matter how inappropriate he might be, than any woman. Tons of manipulation went into that. (And now Melania Trump is in the crosshairs. She’s not evil either, and neither is Michelle Obama.)
But our country was so upset, we needed change so badly, we’ve been lied to and manipulated so much in this post-truth world, we forgot our core values as defender 
against tyranny, champion of the little guy, equality and justice for all. If you see an article beginning with, “Sources have told us . . . that so and so is sick, dying, meeting with the KKK, in a rage, falling apart . . . whatever . . . be suspicious. What sources? Never forget, they can say anything. The unvarnished truth is the only way we can make a better world. We need to know. There was a huge discussion on BBC here yesterday about false information coming from Facebook. We can’t let the forces of evil take over the world. We need new foot soldiers to join in the fight against the misinformation they are using to control us. If you think it’s all one side or the other, you are wrong.
We grew up in our lovely middle class world believing in the American Dream, and this includes Hillary Clinton, who is my age and remembers it the way it was, is a good mom and a hard worker, and since I’ve been around long enough to watch it unfold, I have to tell you, she is the most investigated person in the history of this country. It’s been almost constant since I first heard her name. Looking back, ever since Rush Limbaugh began calling her a femi-nazi in the early 90s (because she wanted to help fix health care and the powers that be didn’t want that, because it would change the status quo, i.e. their pocketbooks, follow the money Insurance and drug companies), she has been demonized. I don’t know how she’s stood it. She’s a brave person, and in my opinion, she stood it for us. Despite our congress spending millions of dollars of OUR tax money on the best and the brightest lawyers hired to prove something against her (should have spent it on reopening the mental health facilities in this country that were closed in 1982), she has never been charged … not with the murder they said she committed, nor any of the “crimes” they say she did. Because accusing someone of something is perfectly legal ~ totally reprehensible, without integrity or honor, but legal, and lucrative. And if you put them through hell and find out they did nothing, too bad for them. If she was guilty of something, she would be in jail. Obviously the system, despite Trump’s lie, is not “fixed” — or, for example, Donald Trump would not be president. He was willing to say that, to shout LOCK HER UP, to incite violence (because he never had any intention of locking her up, he knew she’d never been charged with anything), even to bring this country to civil war, in order to win. Donald Trump, supposed outsider, was not the answer. He is the ruling class (and so is Hillary, btw). Before he 
ran for president, he was a pro-choice, bonafide card-carrying Democrat who invited Hillary to his wedding in order to court her for whatever he wanted voted for, now he says he’s a Republican and he’s vowed to lower corporation taxes from 35% to 15%. But we have no idea, none of us really know what he will do; he will say anything because what he really is is an opportunist. He’s the art of the deal. He would have done anything to win, and he did. Now we are going to have a government run by his children. Please God. Common sense tells us this is not good. Yes, we needed a shake up. But the damage that can be done in four years can actually never be undone. We can never take back the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, the costs associated that we paid for, we can never bring all those soldiers back to life, we can never take back what the banks were allowed to do to us. And if it’s bad for us, you can only imagine how hard it is on people of color.
One thing I know for sure, the enemy is not your neighbor. Look at the faces in these photos and ask yourself, who benefits from reduction of corporate taxes, reduction of 
death taxes, and who profits from war? Because people do, and those people aren’t us. Who benefits when there is no regulation or weak regulations on car safety or safety of our food or water so they can make it cheaper, faster, using slave labor? Who profits when they advertise disgusting drugs on TV that none of us ever heard of? Who benefits if the legislative process is stymied? Do you think that oil companies want us to believe in global warming? Heck, no. Standard Oil started calling it a hoax 40 years ago. Kids gun down their classmates with AK47’s and we’re scared when we’re told that “libs” want to take away our first amendment rights, who benefits from that 
lie? Us, our kids, or gun manufacturers? Who benefits when we fight each other over gun control or Obama Care? Everything is fixed to benefit them, not us, and in this, Trump was right: the system IS rigged against us, but not the way he says it is. When we fight, they get away with it. It’s our NOT ALLOWING them to divide us that can save us. Can we do it? I don’t know. We’re in 
so deep. The yelling on Twitter breaks my heart, moms screaming at other moms. And the powers that be are loving every moment of it. I mean, how better to sell a newspaper than the screaming headline VIOLENCE ENSUES OVER ELECTION. And some media outlets say the violence is coming from the right, and some say it’s coming from the left, and the only thing we know for sure, when they do this, they win and we lose. We’re being used. They would rather we don’t vote at all actually, they make it harder and harder for us to do so, and when media made both candidates seem so unpalatable, when they decided issues didn’t matter, many people stayed home and didn’t vote at all!!!! Perfect. Just the way they like it.
See this photo? This is a room full of Girlfriends who have EVERYTHING in common. We can be mad, but not at each other, let’s be 
mad at them! Some of you may like what I’ve written here, some of you may see it as political, some of you may wonder why I didn’t write it before the election. Now I wish I had. If my dad was still alive he would have made me, but, sadly, I no longer have his sage advice. I’m on my own. Although I’ve paid close attention to politics over the years, I’ve never been a political person, I’ve believed that goodness would always just automatically win. I have a vision of a strong, inclusive America. Some of you might agree with me that our divisions are not real, but are caused by influences from within, from the powers that be who have everything to gain by keeping us separate and off message, if you do, pass this blog around, because we need all the help we can get. Some of you might decide I’m the enemy and never come to my blog again. So be it. Let the chips fall where they may. Many tears have been shed over the choice of best words here, maybe I didn’t do it perfectly, but please, never doubt one thing, my sincerity for the outcome: Us. Together. Forever. One country, one world.🌎
He drew a circle that kept me out, heretic rebel a thing to flout, but love and I had the wit to win, we drew a circle that took him in. 💖
I’ve said my piece. Now back to our regularly scheduled programming.
We’re on our way home! We leave England on Saturday, via the Queen Mary 2, back to America across the deep blue sea. It’s been wonderful beyond words and I wrote it all down in my diary.✍🏼 And don’t worry, my blog will come back in its same old homemaking celebratory way because that’s my heart and it’s almost Christmas🎄, and despite everything, I was born with the happy gene and I know I’ll come out of this. I could probably go on all day, but I believe I have entertained you long enough.💞
Thank you doesn’t say enough, but it says it all and from the bottom of my being. I wrote to you before about what is so important about what you do is that you take us to our essence, our yearning to be the best we can be and identify with people (who some say are made in God’s image) and other living creatures and do right by them and ourselves.
I know that the farmers and their spouses from rural areas are not hicks- I am related by blood to many of them and many are better read and more thoughtful than people who cast them as such; I know that city liberals are not all arrogant and self serving-some are my best friends and acquaintances whose acts of charity and kindness and achievement I have seen all my life; I know that my relatives who voted for Trump are not haters but have other good and generous qualities and that my relatives who voted for Hilary see her efforts to fight for good causes outweigh her imperfections. I know bigotry when I see and hear it- whether shouted from ugly, angry faces or delivered with the sinister soothing cultured voice of someone trying to pretend to be what they are not. I applaud you for trying to help us move through this difficult time, and not go back to what was indeed a better way of life, but forward to make the opportunities needed for a more hopeful future.
Please have Joe do something silly with the teabag again–we really need to move on! Have a wonderful voyage home! Marty
Susan, thank you so much for this post. I have been searching for the words to describe how I feel. You did it for me, with the same attitude of love and goodness that you always have. You will probably laugh at me, but the outcome of this election has made me so sad, I want to go up to women and people I don’t even know, people of color or different races and backgrounds and hug them. Say to them, I don’t feel the way this man does. I love all the differences in our country and our cultures. This is what our country is based on. We all come from immigrants unless we are Native Americans. I have loved Hillary since she was first lady. I felt so sure she could really do such good things for our country. You are so right, the media is in a terrible place. All they ever do is try and dig up dirt or if they can’t, make it up . They want everyone to be angry and they pit people against each other, it has unfortunately worked way too well. Many people believe everything that is said. I have gotten to the point I don’t watch the news much anymore. It seems everyone is just getting angrier and more aggressive, it really is very scary. We need to go back to the values we once held dear in this country, The things you give us all the time. Love and home and being kind and realizing that money is not God. Get back to the values that our parents and grandparents held dear and taught us. Susan, as long as there are people like you, people who spread love and kindness and remind us that the little things in life, our family and friends our homes and our fur babies are the real thing we should cherish we will be fine. We cannot let these people who try and change everything good in life win. There are many more of us than them.
Remember Hillary may of lost the electoral vote, but she won the popular vote. So, there are still millions of us out here that believe in our values and love of this country and home. We need you Susan, very much. Don’t you even think of retiring!! Your honesty, and the love you have for home and the good things in life, for our dear friends and families and our beloved pets, we need this so much. You remind us that there is many of us out there who know these are the important things in life. WE will band together and we will keep our happy genes in tact.We will spread it around too. But we need you to always be who you are. You mean so much to all of us.
Love, Mary Jane
Thank you dear Susan for your wonderful blog!!! You have enlightened us on so many things we needed to know, or maybe we knew, but needed to be reminded…..And thank you for mentioning C-Span!!!! It shall be my new “go to”…… I am your age, my birthday in May….I’m not sure if that is the reason why I feel we will get through this….in the midst of everything, I feel hopeful, with a large dollop of positivity:):):)…….you continue to be my place for comfort, for happy, for knowledge for sweetness……….one day at a time……loving our Lord, I will keep on rowing❤️
Susan,
First of all, I loved you yesterday and I still love you after reading your post. I do not agree with all that you said but I respect you for speaking what you felt needed to be said, from your heart. I have a degree in mass communications and it is embarrassing to me that so many in the media put their opinions out there as fact. I do not believe that you can take any news outlets information as “truth” anymore and yet so many believe anything they read or hear and where do we go to find the answers? The election result was a reflection of so many people being so tired of policies we disagree with being rammed down our throats by career politicians who get to Washington and forget that they represent ALL of us. I find it perplexing that 8 (and 4) years ago those who worried about an Obama administration were minimized and now that the tables have turned people act like the world will end in the next 4 years. We all need to take a collective breath and support the results of our democracy, not riot and call each other names. God bless you and give you safe travels.
I believe the worst thing that could have happened to our country is if Hillary Clinton was elected President. What has she ever done? She’s been elected to many offices…. but what has she actually done? And, I believe we would have had 4 more years of Obama’s policies. He could have been a great President if he had just reached across the aisle and worked with “the other side.” WE ARE ALL AMERICANS! He has raised the level of racism, but why? I cannot figure out why when Bill Clinton was acting badly, why she didn’t kick him to the curb. I guess it just comes down to POWER. This election has gone on toooooooooooooo long and caused so much divisiveness between friends, family and neighbors. You had to say what you said and I respect your views, but they are not my views. But, you will always be my Girlfriend…. still love you and have a very safe trip home.
Ask the people of New York, for whom she was senator, they voted for her overwhelmingly. I respect your views also Maryann. Thank you.
Thank you for your post, Susan. I hope you never stop doing what you do. You bring such joy to those who follow you and love your work. I, for one, would not stop visiting this space you’ve created that inspires such love and creativity. Safe travels. Looking forward to hearing all about your wonderful trip.
I read every word of your post, and I couldn’t have said it any better myself! I agree with you 100%. I was also born with the happy gene and in order to preserve it, I quit watching television about ten years ago. I don’t read the newspapers, either. Some say I stick my head in the sand, but I believe most of what is on the “news” and in the papers is not true anyway, so why waste my time and cause myself worry by listening to it or reading it. I will continue to smile at strangers, give compliments often, and treat people with respect.
Amen, Dear Susan. Hoping you get to see The Crown on Netflix. Don’t miss it…
I wish I could get the courage to travel to England. I love it so. Have a wonderful trip back to your lovely home. What is that great saying? Just think about England.
Love to you and Joe always and forever. Your books bring so much joy and comfort.
Cathy in Vermont
Susan,
I hope you will consider apologizing for comparing the outcome of this election to 9/11. Thousands of people died that day and thousands more will forever mourn their loved ones.
Feeling worried about the direction of the country is not the same thing.
I know you didn’t intend to be insensitive but that statement is really a step too far and I hope you will show your true character and rescind it.
Final thought…..I know you are feeling encouraged by your friends and followers who are congratulating you for speaking your mind on politics but keep in mind that at least half, if not more, of the people who are your biggest fans and supporters are feeling so disappointed and alienated by this post and your subsequent comments. My phone is filling with sad texts from people who love you. I hope you will continue to be a light to ALL people and not just the ones that agree with you.
I’m so disappointed and saddened. To me, this had always been a place where we came together and shared beauty and happiness. It was a refuge that soothed the hard knocks and thorns of what we were going through. That has all changed now. I believe in the old saying that there are two things you should never discuss at a dinner party – religion and politics. Regardless if we agreed or disagree, it has now entered this space we shared, and that makes me sad. The days will continue to march forward; we can’t stop them. But I will miss the days before and what we shared here; I think we will be a difficult if not impossible trip back.
YES Susan – I agree with you WHOLE-HEARTEDLY about using our boundless capacities for happiness to promote LOVE, UNITY, and POSITIVE CHANGE in this time of upheaval. Instead of sitting alone & mourning, let us do as you suggest: put our energy into making sure that our little pieces of America are as safe & beautiful as possible, that our best local officials are elected & supported, and that the lines of honest communication remain OPEN. It is going to take a lot of working together to come out of this in one piece, but if we can survive a revolution and a civil war and women’s suffrage :), we can survive this too. Thank you for providing rays of HOPE amongst the tears!
…and to quote a wise man, “Love is love is love is love…” And you are Love, my dear and a wise, wise woman. Love you. Thank you.
Perfect Susan and trully heart felt, I bet you wish you could stay in England! Ha ha! I know you wouldn’t because you love this country so much!!! If you want a slim to none chance to turn things around go to change.org and sign the petition requesting the electoral college to change their votes and not vote Trump in. It’s been signed by over 4 million people so far. Thanks for your voice of sanity that I am sure you spent many hours agonizing over!
I so admire your passion, courage , & thoughtfulness to write such an impassioned response to our election while you’re still supposed to be enjoying your vacation across the pond! While I totally agree 100% with every word you’ve written, I know about 50% of your fans will respectfully disagree. I agree this election has been the most divisive I can remember in my 67 years, & the politically polarized cable news media has a lot to do with this. I have found myself not wanting to associate for awhile with my Trump supporting friends & family, but know they are all good people who also just want what’s best for our country. I sincerely hope for all of our sakes that our new president-elect can prove to us that he’s not the racist, sexist, egotistical, dishonest, inexperienced, immature bully that he so well portrayed himself to be during the campaign. It’s time to move forward, respect our differences, & love one another! Safe travels home. ❤️❤️❤️
Well put, Susan. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Safe travels!
My dear Susan:
I just read this out loud for the first time to my husband who is a huge fan of yours as well. I had to stop when I read that the saddest day was the day we elected Trump as President. I cried because you said exactly what I believed. Reading your post made us feel more empowered, starting with our family, then the community, etc. We love your Senator from Massachusetts, Elizabeth Warren. She will be a force to be reckoned with. And we have Blumenthal from Connecticut who is no slouch either. I pray for our country that good people, like us, will stand united and resist hatred, racism, divisiveness, dictatorial treatment, etc. Thank you for your heartfelt message. Tough to write but so needed to hear. Safe travels home for you and Joe.
I was in a bookstore yesterday and a book caught my eye, and I thought of you….”A Celebration of Beatrix Potter in Art and Letters” author Warne…..it looks like something you need (you may already have it!)……artists and writers remember Ms. Potter…..
enjoy….
Driving home after watching the election results I heard the song “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” (by the Hollies & Osmonds 🙂 on the radio. The line “his welfare is my concern” made me cry. I thought of a little boy at an immigration protest holding a sign “We Are Human”. just heartbreaking. Did people actually cheer at the idea of tearing families apart? Why can’t they see that finding a pathway to citizenship would allow us to share the American dream with them? It certainly makes me feel like half of our country lacks the ability to imagine a life other than what they have known. From J.K. Rowling’s commencement speech: “Those who choose not to empathise enable real monsters. For without ever committing an act of outright evil ourselves, we collude with it, through our own apathy.” Susan – thank you for speaking up and out.
Thank you for this courageous post. You have expressed so much of what I’m feeling so well. You made me cry but also gave me great comfort. I hope we can all find, in our own small ways, something we can do to make this unacceptable situation better. Safe journey home to this land we all love!
Susan you are so brave, this blog is so heartfelt and so beautifully written. You really didn’t offend either side, you spoke from the heart with facts and truth. My husband is originally from Montreal he is now a US citizen and has been for 15 years. But 10 years ago we moved to Victoria British Columbia for a job opportunity. In my husbands field companies merge or are bought and sold every couple of years. We never would have left, if we didn’t feel we had to. The economy was so bad at the time, we stuck it out for as long as we could, which was a year by the way. We blew through our savings trying to hang on, but we just had to go where the jobs were. Sadly for us it was out of the country. This was all before Obama (we voted for him while we lived there). So we decided to take a chance and go on one of those life adventures. We lived there for 3 years, until another job opportunity brought us back home to New England our favorite place on Earth. Victoria was beautiful and it was a great life adventure but something I never want to do again. I LOVE America and especially New England it’s where we belong. You are absolutely right about the fear that the media instills on the American people. While we lived in Canada you didn’t have all of the junk on TV, there was a 1/4 of the political ads/drug ads there, than they are here. The news was of the world not just Canada, I find in the US, with the media it’s all about the US and nobody else, hello America we are one small part of a big big world. Sorry this is dragging on, but I just wanted you to know that I love what you wrote and I am so glad you shared this wonderful blog post with the world. God Bless you and Joe xoxo
Thank you, Susan, for being a brave and courageous person, willing to speak your mind and heart. You have done so with great eloquence. JFK said, One person can make a difference and everybody should try. I agree, and I believe with all my heart that is what you are doing. I pray that your words will be blessed as they go out, that your desire for love and peace in America and the world, will be a strong force for the dissolving of barriers between race, religion, gender and class. You’re an inspiration to so, so many and you have made a difference in our lives. You are definitely a hero of mine! I close with these immortal words, YOU GO GIRL!!
Thank you for standing up for what is right.
Thank you Leslie.
It’s ok if we agree to disagree~~~
but Trumps “grabbing” women is far easier on the heart to take, than it being “ok” to abort a baby up until the day before birth~~~~
That is just not true. They tell you that to separate us, they use it to keep us apart, it simply IS NOT TRUE. Good grief. What woman you know would do this? No one.
That is probably called a c-section.
Thank you Susan.
Perhaps you haven’t heard of Kermit Gosnell. I lived in the Greater Philadelphia area at the time that his “clinic” was exposed. He was doing many of these partial birth abortions and according to testimony at his trial, a number of the babies born were viable and could have survived if someone had not stuck a probe into the base of the skull causing their death.
As far as I know he is still in prison and several of the people who worked for him were, likewise prosecuted. It is
Almost impossible to believe that this goes on, but sadly I am fairly certain that he is not the only one. I’m not trying to advance any of my beliefs here but it appeared as though you felt that no one would do something like that and I just wanted to tell you of this very sad and horrific situation that took place only a few miles from where I once lived.
Oh, I’m aware that there are psychopaths everywhere in this world. That does not mean for five seconds that anyone normal agrees with what he did, or wants to pass laws that make this okay.
So, it’s okay to kill babies at ? week’s gestation? I am so very sad that we kill BABIES.
No one wants to kill babies. They use that as a tool to wedge us apart. I could write a book on this, but for now, because of lack of time, trust me, you could take a vote of everyone here, and I believe it would be 100% against killing babies. They use that to demonize half of us, it’s not true. But how do we explain that to people who totally believe it is? What do we say to be heard, when nothing works, and that belief is as ingrained into some people as their mother’s name. It’s not true. I can say it 10,000 times, everyone can, but no one believes it. They believe a talk jock. Just like no one wants to take away all guns. That’s not true either. But they say it over and over until we practically go to war over something that IS NOT TRUE.
But Susan it IS true. In America you can abort a baby up to the ninth month of pregnancy, and the Democratic platform upholds this. When is it right to kill a child? Eight days before birth? Eight days after birth? Neither is right. It is the murder of a child.
Dear Mrs Branch,
My name is Annie Dupont and I live in Belgium, a very small country in Europe. Just want to say how much I love your books, I just bought the trilogie you wrote and I am so glad I did. The handwritten stories and the lovely illustrations are so refreshing in these dark times. Thank you for bringing so much joy to me and all of your readers.
Sadly the older books are no longer for sale here in Belgium but I hope there are many more to come in the future. xxx
Hi Annie, I’m so happy to meet you. Thank you for saying hello! xoxo
THANK YOU! What a beautiful and true post. This election result is a tragedy and is not normal for our country. It is truly frightening and we need to be part of a community that can mourn and then take action together. My quest now is to figure out what action I can take. We must work together to combat the horrifying forces that have been unleashed.
Well said, Sue. We keep loving and caring and doing kind things. Only God knows the hearts of humans. I am so glad you are almost home!
Me too, I’m ready, no matter how much I love this place!
I’ve been a follower of yours and bought your books and calendars for many years and I’ve always just loved you! But now you disappoint me. If you had to get political, which I really wish your hadn’t done at all, I could understand you posting your views before the election but doing it now, after it’s all said and done is just another example of dividing our country. He is our president now for better or worse so I don’t see the good of you saying this now. I thought better of you. This post makes me sad that you would do this.
I am not political. I almost want to put this in caps. I am trying to show how we are being torn apart with lies. That the media, and the powers that be have separated us by demonizing both sides. We hand them power when we let them do this, and they are getting away with murder. I’m tired of it. It actually has nothing to do with Donald Trump. It’s been going on for YEARS, but now it’s breaking up families. Come ON!
In my opinion, what Susan has done is put into words her fear of what is to come and how we must guard against being taken in an manipulated further to the detriment of our dear country. Bravo, Susan!
And that is exactly it. Thank you Jo.
I understand Susan ‘s point of view. A lot of people feel the same way she does, over here in Europe. We have to learn that we are all humans and have to get along, no matter what color, race or religion. Without respecting one another there can never be peace. This has nothing to do with politics but with common sense. As a mother and a grandmother I try to live up to this and show my family that hate has no place in a person’s heart. We have to start with ourselves if we want to change the world.
Watching Remembrance Day was so touching ~ it actually went on for over a week and everyone on the street was wearing a red poppy they had to pay 1 pound in order to get, and all the money went to making a better life for veterans. It was a full-country, entire-population, involvement. I think if you see your country bombed by one of your neighbors day after day (and that goes for all countries that have experienced it) your attitude toward war and forgiveness are forever changed. I learned so much! Thank you Annie!
I’m doing my best to ignore the divisive posts in my Facebook feed, most of them, frankly, by my liberal friends. I supported Bernie Sanders in the primaries. After the way the DNC and corporate owned media sidelined him and gave us no choice but Hillary, I, like many fellow former Democrats, was disillusioned. As a result of this election, I’m done taking sides. I’m done predicting doom and gloom if this candidate or that candidate win. I’m practicing being mindful and creating peace in my daily life and the lives of those around me. I’m more distrustful of the government, the media, my friends who cling to a political party as a solution. I’m hunkering down, being present in my
world as it is, appreciating its beauty.
You should never give up on goodness. Bernie Sanders spoke truth to power. He had to be put down. Corporate owned media is in charge, right now, because they have successfully divided us. When we all wake up and see it, we can do something about it. Oooops, I almost forgot to say, Ommmmmmmmmm. 🙏 I’m with you.
No the DNC and Hillary put him down. They cheated him.
Yes they did.
Yes, Laura. I agree with you!
Thank you so much for your words. This has been a very upsetting time for all of us. I do not understand how anyone can listen to the very words that came out of Donald Trump’s mouth during the campaign and be ok with it. I have been in a state of grief for the last week and I see this all around me. It has been very hard for me to accept the fact that as a country this has become such a normal, that the words were not shocking to so many. My heart breaks for those that are living in fear of what will happen to them and their families.
I too was a person that never paid much attention to politics, but this election has shaken me to my very core. Hopefully one day in the future I will work past my grief and fear, but that time is not now.
Sending love Debbie. Maybe a miracle will happen. xoxo
People who obey the law have nothing to fear. And no, not everyone is in despair. My husband gets to keep his job another 4 years. I’m extremely happy. It’s the snowflakes of our society that can’t accept the election results. I can’t stand Obama but I don’t need a service dog to handle it. Good grief.
Thank you…thank you. Your words made such sense to my broken heart and soul. I have been at a loss for what could be done to make all of this “right” again. I made up my mind to love my neighbor more, be more respectful of others, volunteer more for the causes I believe in, never witness another’s pain without standing up for them, and smiling at strangers every day. Small things, but if many do the same…just imagine.
Love to all.
I think that perhaps it is not a coincidence that days before writing this blog, you posted on your twitter account, Sue, that you had heard the song “Love of My Life” by Queen at your friend’s home. Since then I have gone to youtube and listened to it at different times during the day. I even printed out the lyrics to the song to include in the Christmas card I will give my husband this year. The stanza which stood out to me was:
“You will remember
when this has blown over
And everything’s all by the way
When I grow older
I will be there at your side to remind you
How I still love you, I still love you.”
Although my first thought was the love my husband and I share, I realized after reading your blog, Sue, that these words can also be about the strong love most of us have for our country and (extending it) for our world.
I would like to ask many of you to read all the words to this song.
For those (perhaps us) hurt by the election results, I think that you can understand the opening words:
“Love of my life you’ve hurt me
You’ve broken my heart and now you leave me.”
but later in the song Freddie Mercury sings: “When this has blown over…I will be there at your side.”
I agree with Sue, that we should never give up on America and her people. I feel that her blog was a wake up call to each of us to become involved and informed and proactive.
My daughter teaches at an elementary school with a large Latino/Latina population and the fears and experiences her students share and express to her are unimaginable. My grandparents came through Ellis Island, what were their fears and experiences? And what did they want to find in America? I am now going to listen to the news closer and inform myself better and love my neighbors better because Sue woke up something in me. I hope that because of Sue I can see that our basic core divisions are not real and maybe we should see and understand the other person’s point of view and what all of us in America have in common. These are just my thoughts at this time after reading Sue’s blog. They don’t have to be yours. That’s what America is about-diversity.
(Sue, you don’t have to post this on your blog. And I really don’t want my email shared.) I just wanted you to know that you are not alone in your thoughts. I think that your next book should be about how people are more alike than not. I’d like to read about how your travel experiences have impacted your world view, about people, the environment, and about America seen from afar.
Aren’t the lyrics to that song just amazing? I cry every time I hear it! As for the future, if every day I count my blessings I am a happier person. If every day I have negative feelings, I am unhappy. It’s the same with how we believe our countrymen are. If we are fed a steady diet that they are HORRIBLE, then we will think it. And if we tell ourselves constantly, we are one, we are all good, we can solve our problems, then we can! I hope it’s okay that I post this. The words to the song are so healing and lovely.
Dear Susan and girlfriends, I am just so sad for the divisiveness the media keeps spewing forth. No matter what news station you listen to….and, like all of you, I prayed and prayed for help in voting and sought out sage advice but all of my friends were just as uncertain and disappointed with our choices. I do know that good, good people on both sides did the best they knew how. We all need to remember “they” can control us by “fear”. God is in control. He will heal our hearts, our divisions, our nation. Rise above fear. Treat each other with love, kindness, and RESPECT. I truly believe we all just try our best to do the right thing and fall short so often. No matter how we voted, this election is an opening and opportunity to expand our awareness, compassion, forgiveness and love for each other. We are family. Don’t ever forget that…..
Perfect Cathy!
Susan,
Thank you for writing your feelings about our state of affairs in this country. I have had a knot in the pit of my stomach that will not go away for fear of what is going to happen now that the dogs of war have been unleashed. I mean war by war on the people of the USA by our own government. Your clear assessment of what has happened and is happening helps me by seeing I’m not the only one who feels as I do. May God help us. I can only cling to my faith in God and in my fellow man that we will be vigilant to protecting our and their rights in this great country.
Susan, you’re probably my favorite person on earth that I’ve never actually met. Ironically, I’ve used YOU as my escape from the real world in the past. This is your blog, of course and you may write whatever is on your heart. I’m sure you spent many hours deciding what to say, if anything. However, it saddens me so much that you did. I agree with the generalities completely. But the specifics are divisive to your readership and that disappoints me tremendously. Have a safe journey home!
Thank you Patricia … The one specific about Trump, the thing he did to women, I could not leave that out. I had to say my thoughts. I’m sorry.
Susan…I love your writing, love your art work…even went to Martha’s Vineyard this summer because you made it sound so nice. But, I will agree with those who said you should not tread in political waters….it will only create a larger divide.
Your AHA moment was private parts a decade ago. My AHA moment was the POTUS staring me in the face saying he did “not have sex with that woman”….in the oval office….more than once. Really? You are right, what could Hillary do at the time..move out? I don’t have an answer for that, I just know that I felt let down by both of them. Do I condone Trump or Clinton’s actions, no I don’t. What I do know is I felt the same way back then that you feel now. Please use your platform to bring sides together. Each of us has our own political opinion, let’s leave it at that. What’s done is done as far as the election. We can certainly come together as a nation whoever is in the White House, but we need the likes of you and your public platform to help heal the divide, not add fuel to the ever growing fire. Personally I can’t wait for you to get home so I can read about your adventures on Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard! Safe Travels!
I’m sorry but I can’t take it anymore!! I have been reading through all the comments and for crying out loud!! You that are so disappointed in what Susan has said is you putting her on this pedestal and not letting her be human and ‘dumping’ her because she broke your little bubble!!!! GET A GRIP’!!!!! She’s STILL the wonderful person she is and a little dose of reality is not going to hurt any of you!!!
ps….glean what you will from her statement…don’t just make a blanket decision because I too voted for Trump and it’s not just black and white. You all say you ARE listening to what she’s saying but you really did miss the point of our division….and you are only proving her point when you say goodbye to her. Sad!! But it’s your loss!! There is such a thing as loyalty…
Not black and white. It’s so much more than who voted for who, way more.
Oh Karen, you are so sweet to me. xoxo
❤️🇺🇸 Susan Branch for President! 🇺🇸❤️
I believe their are serious concerns on BOTH sides.
In humor and not condoning Mr Trump what so ever…
Princess Diana laughingly poked a gentleman from behind on his rear with her umbrella.
Ha ha ha!
Thank you for this. I dealt Saturday by getting in my lower mileage car and splurging on an extra tank of gas to drive up Hwy 1 in SoCAL. I stopped at the nursery in Cambria and bought a passion vine for the Gulf Fritillaries. I continued up to Carmel for lunch at the Barnyard. Then turned around and felt the magic of the Southbound 1 for nearly 100 miles down the coast. I stopped for a few minutes to watch the Elephant Seal teenagers practicing for the gathering in January, then watched the almost full moon rise in front of me as I approached the 101 out of Morro Bay. I had to pull off for a minor car issue, and was treated to old, awful Turkey jokes by a man who slightly resembled a leprechaun in disguise.
I was restored.
Then I started my first post-election week as a teacher of the Constitution at a school where I have always felt safe as we celebrated the diversity of our student body and appreciated the aura of kindness we have nurtured over the nearly 25 years that I have been here. And learned that by the second day, our beloved campus supervisor had been asked – TWICE – when she was being deported. Yesterday we crossed paths in the staff lounge. She was washing dishes as a service to us all, and stopped to dry her hands so that we could share a hug. I have hugged her many times, but this was different. Harder. Longer. And then she said – in her second language – that a hug was more than bodies, it was one heart to another. And I hugged her again.
How much damage to be healed. One hug at a time.
This makes me very sad that you decided to talk politics. My happy place is no longer happy. For those of us that didn’t like either choice, it’s easy to see who you backed and that’s something I didn’t need to know. I know it’s your right to speak about it. I won’t read the comments here, I don’t want to know what they say. I pray for our country and the leader we will have. I choose to hope for the best as I believe we all are capable of change, even Trump.
Well said, Susan. Wish I could have a printed copy of this. You know they say (& it goes something like this)……. if you say it loud enough & long enough, people will believe you. Trump was louder & spoke longer with his fear mongering & people believed him!
Dearest Susan,
You touched my broken heart with your words. I love this country. I was raised in the Air Force and was shown throughout my young life love of country and duty to the country, the government and our neighbors.
I am stunned by this election and the outcome and the outpouring of such vile words and actions by a man who will be commander in chief. I am amazed that the hate that has been hidden hearts is now given an approving nod to be spewed across the land. Hurt and pain are the only result of this kind of hatred.
And who benefits – I think, as you have so eloquently said – the powers that be behind the curtain. We do not benefit from hatred of our fellows.
Thank you for your words, your insight and your constantly loving heart.
I am an only child (not so much a child – now age 70) but if I had had a sister I wish she had been you.
Love
Kathleen Sincock
Thank you Susan. Your words are a balm to my soul. And sadly, I imagine they may cost you. I have tried to get over my sadness from this election. As superficial as it sounds, I think we’ve forever lost civility. This man made it ok to say the most crude and appalling things, words from his own mouth that we could watch and know it was true, not so-and-so saids from questionable news sources and outright right wing propaganda machines. We have a new normal, where you can insult people, disrespect people, and it’s all ok. I totally agree that pre 1990’s and the advent of Fox News and similar outlets we were a civil and united people. The constant hate news has taken a toll on our country and it breaks my heart. I have friends posting FB outrage at protesting(how do they think women got the vote) but remaining silent on all the incidents of racial harassment that are popping up everywhere in the last week. Of course they won’t see those incidents reported on their chosen news channel. I apologize …. you tried to be open and even in your regard of all. I personally am broken hearted and so disappointed in the blindness of many of those I love. And one final thought, I am a Christian and this totally influenced my vote and I don’t appreciate being told by the “right” that I cannot be a believer if I vote to follow my consciounce. Right now all I can do is keep quiet on my FB page while I gather my thoughts and not add to the clutter out there. And reassure those I care about who are personally affected by this election via skin color or life style choices that I feel their pain. I hope you are right and there is a way out of this mess. But I’m not feeling hopeful at the moment. Please keep posting. Seeing the beauty you put out in the world is a happy escape, and sometimes we all need to escape. God Bless.
It is truly unfortunare that your political views, and obvious support of one candidate over another are alienating to 50 percent of your readers. I understand that East Coast/ West Coast people don’t often see things the way people in the Heartland do. It’s your page and only you have a right to express your opinions here but you are currently NOT here and have not witnessed the hate, the name calling, the unfriending, most of it aimed at anyone who supported Trump. We’re tired. And yet the hate continues in rioting and calls for violence.
I have loved your work for 30 years and purchased your books and other items. We can agree on home and family. But my politics are mine, yours are yours, just like religion. Please, please please, lets just follow those polite old rules about never talking about politics or religion so we can all feel equal.
What you understand about the east coast/west coast/Heartland is a lie. We are all in this together. This thing about dividing us has to come to an end. They are using us to get what they want. It’s getting more obvious all the time.
I so agree with you Susan! I am from the heartland and can not ever condone the things that Trump has said. So Judy please don’t make this an east coast west coast heartland matter. Some of us in the heartland believe just like our east coast and west coast friends. Mr Trump changed everything he believed in just to get voted in. This was the biggest con job I have ever seen and I am sorry to see that so many of people in this country bought in to it!!
So long Susan: It’s been fun.
LOL, bye Jane!👋 I will miss you.
Bye Jane.
I am simply wondering if you are dividing your own self from perhaps half your girlfriends? And are you dividing we girlfriends from one another?
Just a thought…
I hope not. I’ve been blogging for a pretty long time. Most people know me. And if by talking about something like this honestly and with a good heart divides my “own self from perhaps half my girlfriends,” I would be surprised. But if that happens, then it only goes to prove my very sad point . . . you saw all those pictures of girlfriends … and how much we have in common. But we are being divided by people who make money when they are successful at it.
Beautiful words, Susan. You expressed how I’ve been feeling so eloquently. I felt sucker-punched after the election. I didn’t realize until I read this, that it’s exactly as I felt on 9/11. On that day, we as Americans rallied together against a common enemy, terrorism. The hopelessness and fear turned to unity and strength. But this election-this time- there is no unity, no common enemy–because, we are our own enemy. Like you, I have the “happy gene” and preferred to believe that goodness would prevail, and a bully wouldn’t win. Now, I will practice and encourage kindness, but I have become more politically active, because our rights are at stake and smiling and nodding politely won’t cut it anymore.
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter” Martin Luther King Jr.
Bravo to you Susan but, I wish you had spoken up sooner. For all of the women who are saying, “Donald Trump’s words were years ago.” What about the words he has been saying for the last eighteen months. Mocking of a disabled man. His comments about Megan Kelly, etc.
It is time for all of us who care about our fellow man to come together and say, “Never Again”. We can not tolerate the divisiveness and hate any longer.
Thank you for this. You have expressed what many of us are feeling. I fear for our country. An element has been brought to light and made respectful that used to stay in the dark. On a brighter note, you don’t have to fear for you blog and business. There are more of us out here than there are of the haters.
Bravo! May we all find a loving peace together soon & hold tight to each other.
That’s right, wrap our arms around each other so tightly, they can’t get in to divide us.
Dear Susan —
I have never written a response to a blog post in my life; however, I just had to send one to yours.
You, my dear, are one brave woman — and I’m so proud of you! I’ve been a fan of yours for years and years. I’ve indulged myself in your wonderful cookbooks; hung on every word in your blog; placed your colorful calendars on my wall; read books about your amazing life; been in awe of your writing and art. But — I honestly haven’t been more in awe of you than I am right now. You have shown yourself to be a true woman of substance and passion — a beacon for all of us in the darkness that seems to be swirling around right now. Although I’m not going to rehash everything that you wrote, I totally agreed with it. I only hope that you’ll continue to lead us with brave words of wisdom, common sense, and positivity. We NEED you, Susan. Thank you for everything that you do to make this world a better place. It’s important to find a mission in life and you’ve definitely found yours!
Affectionately,
Christine
Ohhh (this is with small squeal in my voice) thank you Christine. This is has been oddly emotional for me. I appreciate your kind words. xoxox Sending love.
Well said. x
Christine, I think you just made Susan’s day!! That makes me happy because she has been getting battered here, and for no reason other than pointing out that it’s not the politics but the money-grubbers creating a great divide. I just can’t see anything wrong with telling the truth! And, I agree wholeheartedly with your every word!!
(I keep wishing there was a “like” button because I just love some of the Girlfriend’s comments! 🙂 )
Hooray for Susan!!
♥Deb♥
(I know. I have to stop commenting. It’s hard.)
I know, it’s hard, we want this thing to be seen! But politics keeps wanting to raise it’s ugly head! We have to keep trying.
Hello My Sweetest Sue Your Beloved Dad & Our Adorable Blog~Daddy Is In Heaven Beaming With Pride….. Besides Being Creative…Magical….Enchanting….Joyful….Brilliant…You My Dear Are A Very~Smart~Woman…..This Is America….& We Can All Express Our Thoughts & Feelings Freely… Thank~You For Sharing Yours With All Of Us…..Breathe….I Do Believe Most Of Us Are Completely Drained After These Long 18 Months of a Crazy Campaign & Then This Election…..We All Need To Come Together As A Nation….Be Aware Of The News~Media & Try To Really Educate Ourselves… Learn About Our Government… I Know I Am….We Need To Watch Our Leaders…Our Officials…..Learn About These United States Of America….I Do Believe In GOD & Our Nation & The People Who Live Here…. I Pray For Our Country To Heal & I Pray For The Entire World… Life Is Truly A GIFT….Love… Understanding….Patience….Forgiveness….All Very Important….I Pray For The New President….I Pray For Congress & Our Government I Pray For All People…..Only Time Will Tell….Thank~You For Taking Us Along On Your Most Magical Journey…..I Am Wishing You & Joe A Safe & Restful Voyage & Just Think Sweet Sue…Very Soon You Will Be… HOME Decking Your Halls & Cuddling With Your Jack~Wacky~Boy I Love You Sweet Sue FOREVER!!! xoxo Poof!!!! 🙂 P.S. Home~Again~Home~Again Jiggity~Jig Yay! 🙂 😉
Good~Thursday Sweet Sue…Can You See My Post Up Above? Please Read Me 🙂 😉 I Hope The Christmas~Festival Was Magical & Helped Heal Your Heart….xoxo Poof! 🙂
I’m good Angie, dear, my heart feels strong, thank you so much for your caring note. I haven’t seen your other post, because there are a jillion waiting for me to read, and we GO tomorrow, so I have to pack today. I’m never going to get through them!!!! I’ll keep looking for yours though.
Amen Susan. Well said and from your heart. I echo many of your sentiments. So many people do not do the research to know the truth (I know it’s hard to find) but it can be done. Lots of prayers for this mess.
Very brave of you to write this, Susan. I read every word and you state my feelings exactly. You are an inspiration to many people. I chose to continue to enjoy my wonderful family and girlfriends, to listen to the news less, be on social media less and find goodness in everyday life. This past year, I lost my dear mother, my beautiful daughter-in-law and now the country I have always known. God Bless us all with kindness and understanding.
You and Joe have a wonderful trip home. Thank you for sharing your adventure with us.
The results of this election shook me to the core. We who grew up in the ’50’s were taught to respect other people, and with that came self respect. The Golden Rule, which feels tarnished by our president-elect. Trump seems to relish disrespecting others publicly, and especially people he perceives as weaker than he is (disabled, women, immigrants, etc) which is a sure sign of a bully. We should not excuse, tolerate, or reward that behavior. Words matter. Our children are listening. How we treat others matters. Our children are watching. The man also is woefully uninformed and unqualified. He doesn’t study. He doesn’t read books! I cried for 3 days, then went to the beach and burrowed in with a girlfriend (I was sad. She was angry.). Followed Isak Dinesen’s advice that salt cures everything, right? Sweat, tears, the sea. It helped. It has prompted me to get back to meditating regularly, and focus on kindness. Thank you for your thoughts and for being unafraid to speak out. We need your voice of love and reason!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Well said.
Thank you. I tried.
Thank you so much for this Susan. You spoke to my heart. Thanks for being so brave. XOXO
Well, it took me a few days. But this divisiveness is wrong on every level, and undermining our country.
So where were you when Obama said I WON! Sounds divisive to me. Just admit you’re being a hypocrite. Your gal didn’t win so you had a calling to tell us “others” how scared you are. Aren’t you doing the same thing as what you’re accusing the Republicans of doing? Fear mongering
I’m not saying I’m scared, I’m saying I’m disheartened by our divisions, and have been for a long time. It just took me a long time to see what is going on and how it’s keeping all of us down, and I wanted to shine a light on it. I’m very sorry if it hurt people’s feelings, but it only goes to prove my point about how on edge we all are. It didn’t used to be this way.
Hi Susan, I am a 30 yo single mother from CA and I’ve only been in this country less than 10 years. I work in a very diverse workplace with lots of Asian people and the only white guy is my boyfriend. (Never mind that we work together, that’s a long story for another time). Anyway, I am in no position to talk about politics here but seeing the way things have been running from a different perspective, I have a bit to say of the matter. You see nowadays, everybody at work have fear in their hearts. We are all immigrants and they all hate Trump. But what’s worse is that they talk about white people like they are the enemy now just because of our elected President. This hurts me the most since my guy is the most caring and sweetest guy I know and I am stuck in the middle. Do I agree or disagree with the one I love or with the people that have the same black hair as me? I know it could be said that the Trump campaign brought about this but then again, if Hillary won I am still on the same boat for at our workplace, the white man is the minority. Where does she stand on that when really the American people should’ve been the priority from the very beginning? I don’t have a good grasp of everything but when the white man is being taken for granted for the hard work he has done and put last in line in healthcare since there’s everybody else who needs free healthcare without paying their dues, what else is there for him to think of but to say there needs to be change in this country and put AMERICA first. Put AMERICANS first.
Now, I don’t say this lightly and even the Trump presidency unsettles me a bit since I am an immigrant. But campaign mode is different from government mode. I didn’t see those women being grabbed by Trump and one by one suddenly started standing up against him years after neither did we hear what went on the tarmac with Bill. Who knows who is lying?
I cried all the way through your post and I have loved your work, your art, your books and you, yourself even if we don’t know each other, for years now. You are are right, we all just need to give each other a chance and not tear each other down. God Bless Us all!
I didn’t vote for either candidate. Trump’s “grabbing” remark was sickening but the “locker room talk” cover-up was enabling. I also could not vote for Hilary because she does not believe that my daughter, whom I carried during the last grueling year of that election, was a living person until she drew breath on Father’s Day. I believe unborn women (and men) are people too. And my husband and I are raising our children with high standards. We teach them to respect everyone regardless of race, color, or creed. And in our house right now we’re working to repair the hate in this world by concentrating on our blessings. It’s a month of Thanksgiving! You and your art have been part of my life, Susan, since I found your scrapbook stickers in a fabric store in 1999. Thank you for focusing on what really matters–the heart of the home. <3
Abortion, the big wedge they hold over our heads. We can solve this too. I have full faith in us. Nobody likes it, no matter what side we’re on. Thank you Theresa.
How Susan, how can we solve this? Abortion is real and for many of us it’s heart wrenching. We’re not angry or devisive, we want what you want but, this is a tough one to get around.
I think we could, if we didn’t have these voices (mostly male btw) dividing us. I think we could work together to make them so much rarer. You know abortions were happening when they used to be against the law, and women were dying. So that didn’t work either, but we could make birth control much easier to come by, make abortion rare. You are so right, it’s a tough one. But we could do it.
The Media has spread lots of false information and lies to get one candidate in the WH. Anyone that takes money and is basically controlled by Saudis that treat women horrible and throw gay people off buildings is not my Candidate either. The Media has become to powerful and can lie all day long to promote their agenda. Sad thing is people don’t do their own research to see if it’s true or not. I think Our next President is going to do great things for Our Country. No candidate is perfect.
Hmmmm. Not much I can say here.
Susan,
Truth. Well said. Some people will never change their minds on how they see Trump, despite the blatant reasons he should’ve been out of the race a long time ago. Our country’s ideology was exposed. I won’t get into how the Electoral College has vestige in slavery, because James Madison created it in order to “preserve” the institution of slavery; fearing the North would soon outnumber the South in population. It’s absurd that it is still used in our presidential elections, because the upset is that the candidate wins the popular vote, but will lose to the other if they get the Electoral College. Again, this is outdated and rooted in slave culture. Other countries who had it – repealed it and went back to popular vote because of the prior upset mentioned. Yes – we have gone astray from critical thinking and knowing where our country and its laws come from… Ummm.. capitalism births plutocracy and oligarchy. Democracy has been eroded by this political philosophy. Period. You nailed it on the head in your blog. The American government is run by the elites and corporations. The president can’t change the beast that is control. Certainly not Trump, who is the epitome of corporate America. We just have to see what happens now… What we can do, and will make more of a difference than a ballot vote – is being conscious of what/where we spend our money on/at. This is our ace in the hole for reclaiming our country and its democracy. But this takes unity… One step at a time. I commend you, Susan, for speaking out. You just wouldn’t feel right if you didn’t. I know you avoid this kind of talk, if possible, but this is something that is weighing heavily on many Americans, who are paying attention, and in all honesty – I was wondering what you were thinking… But wasn’t sure if you’d write a post about it. I’m so very happy you did, and proud of you, too. Tomorrow is my birthday, and I’ll take this post as your gift to me. Love you lots!! XOXO
Cassandra
Happy Birthday dear Cassandra!
I have to say that I am so disappointed in you. You are allowed your feelings, but your website and blog was one of the few places to go to escape all this craziness and just enjoy an unbiased view of life. I don’t think your blood is the place for a political forum. It is being shoved down our throats in every possible way, and now on your site too. I love your work and we are all entitled to our opinions( which is just what they are), but I am still disappointed
I am unbiased. This is not political, it is about the forces that are undermining us. Please see the honesty in what I am trying to say. I am sorry you are disappointed, but I could not be a good person in my own eyes if I didn’t say something.
Not disappointed! I am proud of you, Susan! With all my heart!
Your blog was not unbiased.
Yes Barbara Patronaggio, thank you for saying what I felt.
I have to say I agree with Barbara. This makes me so sad. I have been a fan since the Country Living days.
Thank you for saying this!
You have made your own platform here, and I am glad you are shouting truth from it.
I do not believe any of us are pleased with the out come of this election. At least not pleased in the sense of believing that anything at all has been solved.
I shall continue to love my neighbor, whether I agree with her or not.
Because it is truly the only way through this mess.
According to me, you are not in any way done with your work here.
What you do has added beauty to my life since “long ago” my aunt first introduced me to your Christmas book that she had recently received from a friend.
You life, your values, your love of beauty is wrapped up in your words and art.
I’m still listening.
Girlfriends forever. I believed it then, I believe it now. With us, anything is possible! xoxo
Me, too! To those that are unable to see it is not political I say, “find the truth and it will set you free”.
Thank You! I wish I had the eloquence to say the exact same thing. You are spot on!
xoxo
I applaud your braveness in writing this and agree with a good part of it, however, please give President Trump a chance. The results of the election indicate that the country wants change and new ideas. He hasn’t even taken the oath of office and a lot of Americans have closed their minds and hearts to him. Several months ago I turned off all the news channels and turned on Turner Classic Movies and the Classical Music Channel if I wanted background noise.
I hope in the coming year you can once again manufacture your wonderful products here in the USA. I still wear my pink pajamas you showed in the post! And very soon I will put out my SB ceramic Christmas tree with the cupcake and gingerbread ornaments. This is still my happy place and it’s ok if we disagree sometimes.
I closed my mind the moment I heard him say he grabbed women by the p. That did it. To vote for him, for me, meant that I condoned that behavior. He was 59 years old when he did that. Old enough to know better. I’m a pretty open minded person, but I do have my limits! Thank you for your dear self Ann, I know we will work it out.
He did not say he grabbed them. He said when you’re a celebrity they LET you grab them. Big difference.
Really?
Yes really. When you’re a star they LET you. You don’t believe there are women that wouldn’t care? REALLY?
Listen, he said what he said. I didn’t put those words in his mouth. Either your behind it, or you’re not. But please don’t blame the women.
Exactly! There are women in this world who will allow a powerful man to treat them this way. It is not ok regardless but he was speaking of a consensual situation. The media ran with it and gullible people soaked it up. I have been saying, “If you dislike both candidates, then vote for your party platform.” and that is what I did on election day.
There was no mention of consensual. He spoke about his celebrity allowing him to get away with it. He called women pigs, he comments on their looks, even Carly Fiorina, anyone he wants, talks about walking in on his Miss America contestants. It’s a pattern. I don’t even want to go here. I’m not about that. He was elected. I am talking about something else.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. ♡ What the world needs now is love, sweet love….. xoxo
Too true.
I am a fan of yours, Susan. I have your trilogy and some of your cookbooks. I attended one of your book signings in Michigan and blogged about it.
What holds me steady in the midst of chaos is a strong foundation in Jesus Christ and His Word. Only a Higher Power can keep us secure in times like these.
Jesus said in John 8 “If any one of you is without sin, let him/her be the first to throw a stone…” And we know the outcome – all the accusers dropped their stones and walked away. That all inclusive command levels the field very quickly.
My hope is in the Lord who made Heaven and earth. He sees the intent of all hearts. Nothing is hidden from Him, and He will be the righteous judge.
It was my responsibility and privilege to vote in the election. None of the events leading up to the election, during the election, or since the election has taken Him by surprise. Am I happy about what’s transpiring? Of course not. But God sees the BIG picture and I trust His sovereignty. The 1930’s prayer written by Reinhold Niebuhr is still relevant in today’s turbulent world: “God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, and the Wisdom to know the difference.” May God bless you Susan, and give you peace.
Thank you Phyllis. xoxo
Thank you Phyllis Barkey for saying what I couldn’t
Beautifully written Phyllis!
You are brave, you are honest, you have spoken from your heart……I am in awe and proud to say that I have met you. Thank you Susan. ooxx
You are a sweetheart Helen. xoxo
You’ve said a lot, Susan, and you have said it well. As a Canadian, I am not just listening in; a lot of this is happening in our country too.
Best wishes to you. xoxo
Oh Susan, I’ve been a fan for a long time and I truly love your blog….until today. You started off so beautifully and spoke such truths…..wonderful, refreshing to read, hopeful, positive, uplifting…..until you wrote of support for Mrs. Clinton and lack of support for our incoming President. It is your blog and you have every right to voice your opinion but you do influence so many people. You, like the media, is dividing our friends and family…..again. I’m not saying that I agree with all Mr. Trump has said, done, will do or how he lives but he is, now, our incoming President. Not all our country was in support of President Obama or any past President…..they all had faults and families were divided over election results. But I truly feel that people in the “public eye” need to bring our country together not add to the division. I was sad to read the last half of your blog as I’m sad to read so much in the news and social media. We need to heal as a nation.
My whole point is not about Trump or Hillary, but about why nothing ever seems to change for us. We are so busy arguing, we don’t notice that nothing is being done on our behalf, that all our tax money is going to places that have nothing to do with the people. Bridges are falling down. That makes me crazy. Water is poisoned. Really? That is just not right.
Susan, what you say is true…..busy arguing, we don’t notice that nothing is being done on our behalf…..so why mention Trump or Hillary? I truly have loved your uplifting blogs in the past and just felt that you could have sent your message without pointing fingers. There were accusations by both parties, some true, some not. I felt very sad that we didn’t have different candidates to select. Wishing you the best!
Because they are the result. Her, vilified. Him, elected by women despite grabbing women by their private parts. That’s not normal. We usually hate that. It’s all because we’re constantly lied to.
But I know a lot of people do notice that “all our tax money is going to places that have nothing to do with the people”. That was the reason for people voting for someone who was not a government insider. Everybody in this country knows that we are being lied to by the press/media, by politicians, by anyone in power with their own personal agenda ON A DAILY BASIS. However, we had a presidential election. And a choice had to be made by all of us. But to assume that it wasn’t a thoughtfully made decision & that we were foolishly influenced by the lies being spread about Hillary is wrong. It is an insult to say that the reason she lost was because she was a woman. How divisive a statement is that. To vote for Hillary was in a lot of thoughtful peoples minds to ignore a whale of information and to vote for a government insider. When health insurance premiums are going up $1,000 per month (it has happened to my brother and sister-in-law), when small businesses are being regulated to stagnation (my husband’s business), when you get a $20 a week raise and see only $2.00 more in your check you vote for a change. Nobody knows if he will be able to make the changes he said, but you did know what would happen if you voted the other way. My family was the reason for my vote, my family. That shouldn’t be so hard to understand & I certainly didn’t want a lecture today.
My point exactly.
Susan, thank you for your brave words. I am a republican who agrees with most of what you say. We the people need to step up. I plan to get my news from CSPAN and shop local. You have encouraged me for years and you did it again today. I am with you! Yours is the first political thing I have ever shared. My support for you will not falter. Hugs and blessings to you on your trip and through the holiday season.
Love you Carol, thank you, touching my heart. xoxoxo
Thank you for expressing your views in more of an informative and affirmative way. Some blog hosts during the campaign and beyond the election have resorted to nothing less than rants, fear-mongering and name-calling and even exercised censorship against differing views-all fueling even more divisiveness while insisting their beliefs to be the only acceptable ones, the right ones, the wholesome ones-further adding insult and injury. Sadly, I suppose if one had any question as to the meaning of hypocrisy, at least some hosts could be thanked for clearing that up from the examples set by their hand.
Thank you for sharing your ideas and views without openly attacking and disparaging others. Thank you for inviting consideration of a much larger picture vs. the very narrow visions held by many on all sides that have also fueled so much divisiveness.
And thank you also, for sharing your many talents and gifts over the years. May you be able to continue to do so for many, many more to come!
I would give anything if we could overcome this separation and come together again. We are so much more powerful as one, we deserve it, they have had their way long enough. I think we are the good guys, I know we are. Thank you Chris! xoxo
👏👏👏👏👏
Thank you for posting your thoughts regarding this crazy presidential campaign from your heart. Most of my friends and family did not care for either candidate. We, the American people, were given a terrible choice. For me the pro life issue was the most important and therefore Trump was my choice. The fact that Hillary had no feelings, no cares for that little baby in the mother’s womb is what made me turn my back on her. It would have been wonderful to have a woman president, but not her.
I do love all your books, your art, your recipes and no matter where we stand politically my friends come before politics. Thanks for all that you do Susan. You are an inspiration to many people.
We cannot know the absolute truth with the media we have today. In combination with the half-media that proliferates whatever it chooses, we have the traditional media, such as the NY Times, which admittedly by its editor was told to report only what would defeat Donald Trump… Thus, we have to rely on little things, snippets we see. I believe differently than you, and do not take any one episode as evidence of what a person is or isn’t. I would hate to be judged by some of my comments made in private.
I believe the hard truth is different than what you or I would like to admit. Although we are older, we are a part of this snowflake generation that does not like to look at evil. I am certainly in accordance with you on the fact I do not like to see evil, mockery, or any kind of sadness… I do all I can to live in an imaginary world of magic.
However… I truly believe Hillary is, of the two, the more dishonest, the more calculating, the more cold-hearted. I think she was defeated not because she was a woman, but because she was not a good woman at all. I gather that from many news sources, not any propagated after this election campaign began.
I voted for Donald Trump because of the good he promised forthe unborn and because of the good I have known him to do in his private life before he ever began his push for the presidency. It was comforting to see his benevolence to others not as part of a foundation, but as a private citizen. I do realize he has done very calculating, business decisions that I do not like. But I saw what Hillary and her pals did in Haiti… Not good, my friend.
I find all this overall left wing “sadness” irritating as in the idea that a truly good saint has been defeated. Hillary is not that. A truly evil man did not win either. In the long run, I think America needed a harder line in the sand against the invasive ideas that everyone can think, be, believe, dress, act as they want… unless they want to be …. conservative. It’s okay to thumb one’s nose at the flag, even burn it if you feel slighted, but don’t you dare wear a cross to the classroom….
Time for a change? Oh, definitely yes. Time to put justices in that protect unborn BABIES. Oh, definitely yes. Time for a woman to be President? Sure. Let’s run one that is admirable at heart.
Your art and books are sublime. You are entitled to your opinions. Every time a celebrity uses his/her platform of popularity to promote or voice an opinion or side on any issue… they run the risk of alienating… You are brave to voice your opinion, and I think no less of you for it. I just marvel how Hillary Clinton has won the heart of someone who seems so much more gentle, sweet, real, and kind…. Hugs.
I’m not a celebrity ~ just a person. Hillary has been vilified, mostly because she’s a woman. It’s so easy to say bad things about someone. Did you know Donald has been pro choice his entire life. That’s okay, I’m not here to argue.
Yes, DT has been pro choice his whole life and hopefully he will change back – Did you hear that women are sending huge donations to Planned parenthood and when they ask you if your gift is in honor of someone women have been writing in the names – Donald Trump and/or Mike Pence. So clever!
Yes. I know that, but if he follows through and appoints pro life justices, that means more.
You might believe you are not a celebrity, but that is semantics. You are a person, but not “just a person.” You are a talented and well known artist, blogger, and author. As such you have no obligation to your followers but your words do fall on us all. Some agree and call you enlightened and you thank them. Some don’t agree, and you respond as you please. Your blog. Your choice. We shall have to do the same since you brought the whole mess up.
Hillary… well, as you said, we aren’t here to argue. I think she received more votes by virtue of being a woman instead of losing them……. I know you disagree, but I doubt my opinions are because she was vilified…. I have seen her rather sainted and given the benefits of all doubt…. Either because she was a liberal, a woman, or connected… or some other reason altogether!
As I keep saying, it doesn’t matter who won. Because no matter which way it went, we the people would STILL be in this divisive boat, being powered by corporate and media greed, while they manipulate us into blaming each other.
Thank you, Gayla.
Bravo, well said! Exactly what I have been thinking! My husband and I both have spent the last week or so trying to grasp what were people thinking! I get the anger and need for change but to elect a man who has said and done so many things to us, to the American people and we reward that behavior by electing him President! WOW is all I can say. He has opened a Pandora box that may not be able to be closed. The increase in HATE crimes is appalling! We are in for a revolution and is not going to be pretty. He plans to defund all environmental issues, and many more. Now he has appointed a man to his staff who is part of a white supremist group! Not hearsay either! Thank you again, very brave and if you lose some followers it’s okay, you still got many left! Safe journey home to you and Joe!
Karen
Dear Susan,
Thanks for this thoughtful post. I agree with EVERY SINGLE WORD!!!!
It as if the country has been had by the biggest game of gossip ever.
It is the good people pulling together who make this world a better place and hate never did anything but divide, disillusion, destroy and denigrate.
Our son is getting married on Saturday. His fiancée, Ana’s, family is from Mexico, she is a children’s therapist and her clients have all been expressing fear of what is to come. They are just good people same as all of us and yet they have to fear. I will never understand that.
Love is the answer my friend, and you are a beacon of light and love. We will all stick together because girlfriends know what is important in their kindred hearts.
Love to you and the other lights. Travel safely homeward!
I love you for all the magic and happiness your creative mind has brought forth, but I so respect you for speaking your mind. I agree with you 100%. Thank you for this blog. I will always be kind- kindness is what I believe in. xoxo Jacqui
Jacqui, you were born kind. xoxo
Thank you, Susan!
You are so welcome.
Hillary Clinton has sold this country literally / before you spout off like this you should FACE REALITY !! Hillary’s husband is a rapist !! Her “Foundation” is money she has gotten world wide …check out Haiti Susan !!! You have insulted thinking citizens all over this country …you should be ashamed using your “celebrity” to voice propaganda ..golly ..what a let down !! You are an artist obviously not up with facts …it saddens me , because some dreamers also face reality…luckily I have raised 6 intelligent lovely children all of whom now are raising children and will see this country back to it’s greatness again …what a letdown you are !!
He is a rapist. Who did he rape? Her foundation has helped millions of people.
Bill Clinton was accused by several women of sexual assualt. Trump was also accused. BOTH deserve the presumption of innocence. So if you didn’t care when Bill was accused and voted for him then you must not care about trump.
A. I didn’t vote for Clinton. And B. Trump wasn’t accused, he was recorded.
WASHINGTON – Juanita Broaddrick’s rape accusation against Bill Clinton now has medical corroboration for the alleged violent attack that occurred in a hotel room 38 years ago.
Read more at wnd.com/2016/09/nurse-who-treated-bill-clinton-rape-victim
First page of google has at least 9 stories on it, including NPR – both liberal and conservative websites.
I’ll say it again, Bill Clinton was not running. He is being used as a wedge between good people.
See, now here is an example of you being duped by only watching biased news because a couple of other news channels showed her EXACT form with the figures of the divisions of the millions of dollars her organization income/outgo and the smallest percentage actually went to any sort of “aide” and it is itemized the millions that went to personal use and personal planes and personal trips and personal weddings, etc. Please accept the possibility that you are also a victim of the lies of the media that you are disparaging. You don’t know her personally and so your opinions and perceptions of her are also influenced by information given to you by “them.” Just consider it could be possible.
I totally do, I’ve been saying it over and over …. when I say WE are being divided by lies and false news and in order for some people to abuse power, I mean WE. I wish I could make that “we” very big, because Yes, I really do mean we! WE are being manipulated, if you hear me saying YOU, then you are hearing me wrong.
I see that Julie Klum read your blog post on love and kindness. 🙂 You are NOT a letdown Susan – You are such an inspiration!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU!!!!
Agree. Juanita Broaddrick, the woman who has accused Clinton of raping her decades ago while he was the attorney general of Arkansas, tweeted Wednesday, Jan 6, 2016: “I was 35 years old when Bill Clinton, Ark. Attorney General raped me and Hillary tried to silence me. I am now 73….it never goes away.” From CNN And yes, Bill is not running but more than one woman has said HRC tried to silence her after accusing Bill Clinton. That is not reason enough NOT to vote for her but for me it was one reason of many.
It’s all about choice. You choose to believe Juanita Broaddrick, you choose not to believe the women who came forward about Trump. We are being divided by the powers that be.
This has been one of my very favorite pieces you have written! Love, love, love it and you. Your sentiments are exactly what my husband and I have been talking about for the last week. The final straw for me with Trump was when he made fun of the reporter with a disability. My daughter was blind from birth and developed Bell’s Palsy when she was 4 years old. The teasing she received off and on during her short 40 years on earth still hurts me. She was such an independent person, living on her own, and holding down a good job, and she never let it get her down. She passed away suddenly 3 years ago and there is still a hole deep in my heart. But to have someone who wants to be our President, make fun of anyone is not right. I understand some out there hate Hillary and want her in jail – for what I will never know. You are correct in that she is the most investigated person in public office. The Senate held 9 – yes 9 – hearing on her and did not find of guilty of a crime. Now the Senate wants to have another hearing because one side does not like the outcome. If the Senate was just as concerned on working for the good of Americans, we would be on the road to helping all of us. We have good friends who are Muslims (not out to kill or harm us), Blacks (not violent, living in poverty, etc.), Hispanics (not murderers, rapist) and several other nationalities. God made us all and one group is not any better than another. I am just urging people to please, please, please love and try to understand each other. Hate talk solves NOTHING! Love you!
Oh, brings tears when I remember that one. I’m so sorry Debbie. That is heartbreaking. God made us all, and he did really good with you. xoxoxoxoxo
👏👏👏👏👏
So disappointed that you had to bring politics into your blog. At least I haven’t ordered my Susan Branch calendar yet. Signing off.
Well see, this is how it goes. This is what I’m saying exactly. How can this be? This is the division at its worse. I probably have everything in common with you, but somehow you have read my words as anti-YOU. I promise this is not true.
Don’t worry, Susan! I’ll buy 2 calendars in support of your bravery.
LOL, thank you Jerri!
I’ve already bought my calendar….and the books. I feel sad at some of the comments and hope these lovely people can get over themselves. After all, don’t we support freedom of expression? We may not agree, but that’s not a reason to punish the person with whom we have a difference of opinion. Susan, you are the best.
I’ll buy 10! So many seem to be missing your point. In the words of Trump: SAD
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for saying what I’ve been thinking and feeling for the past week. Every time I tried to talk about it, it came out as gibberish. <3<3<3
Dear Susan,
I admire you for writing this. You are a strong woman for doing so. I am still grappling with the outcome of the election and hoping we can come together as a nation and be, as Hillary said it, “Stronger Together.”
I also want to tell a quick story my mom recalls from my childhood. I grew up in Arkansas when Bill Clinton was governor. I also happened to go to the same dance school as Chelsea, though she was older than me. My mom always admired the fact that the First Lady of Arkansas sat in the waiting room with the other working moms (like mine) to pick up her daughter from dance class. She didn’t have to do that. She could have farmed it out to employees of the governors mansion. I see this as an example of her true character. I still don’t know how to feel or think about this election and it’s after-effects, but I choose to believe there is kindness in everyone.
I plan to share this blog post with my mom, who is devastated and still struggling with it all. I hope it will lift hers and others spirits. Best wishes to you and Joe in your last days in England and travels back on the Queen Mary. I hope there’s another book from this trip, or at least more blog posts! I get to travel to England next June for work on a Costume Study Tour, and I can’t wait!
All best,
Sarah from SLO
Hillary’s relationship with her daughter is probably my number one reason for liking her. You can tell when women are close to their children. It’s not that easy either. And she did it, despite being in a fish bowl. Their warmth speaks volumes. And I see you have that with your mom too. Please give her a hug for me. I have lots to share about the trip! Stay tuned!
And trump is not close to his children?
No, I didn’t say that. I think they seem close. We were just talking about Hillary at that moment.
You are so right about the media. I am a #nevertrump Republican. I switched from Fox News to NBC and MSNBC during the Democratic convention.It was refreshing to see another point of view. I voted for Hillary. If you have not already seen it,Google SNL cold open, Kate McKinnon as Hillary singing Hallelujah. I cried. I think you will like it.
Have a safe trip home.My husband was there to cover the Redskins game in London. He went to Emma Bridgwaters shop for me. 🇺🇸🇬🇧
I love you for your guts and independent thinking, because I know how hard that is to do. We desperately need a change, but like you, and for reasons stated, I knew this man wasn’t it. You have a good husband.💖 xoxoxo
Thanks, a lot of us are disappointed, perplexed, and frustrated by the election of Trump. Just know you are not alone. I think people tend to fear the unknown. I live in a diverse community in the DC area. My neighbors from other countries are lovely people. We should not fear people that are different, we should get to know them. That would solve a lot of our problems.
Thank you, Susan, for writing the words that express exactly how I feel but have been unable to say. I’m going to share your post with my daughter, son, husband, in-laws, and everyone else who shares our grief and frustration over this horrible election. Thank you, again, for your heartfelt blog.
Love,
Vicki
Thank you Susan Branch for sharing your words, your heart and your soul. I have made over a thousand calls for Hillary beginning pre-caucus. I didn’t chose her because she was “the lesser of 2 evils”, I chose her because she was a brilliant, prepared, kind and caring person dedicated to our country and the people (all the people) in it. I had the great pleasure to meet her twice as she visited my small town in Iowa. When she is speaking before an audience she doesn’t have the charisma of Obama, Michelle, Bill but in person, one on one, I had the opportunity to see who she really is and that is an incredibly caring and loving human being who would have led our country to great things. Is she a perfect person, no but then who is. Unfortunately, enough people in our country chose to believe the constant barrage of lies that have hounded her all of her political life (and perpetuated by mainly white, Republican men) while ignoring the hateful, violence inciting words and lies that have come out of Mr. Trump’s own mouth. Everytime I listen to her gracious concession speech, I cry, not only for what we have allowed to be done to her, but what our nation has lost. Now we are faced with a man who not only has chosen a man with ties to white supremacists to be on his staff: who has refused to reveal his tax returns; who praises Putin over our own President; who rants on twitter; who will deny women rights over their own bodies ETC., ETC., ETC,. All I can say is that it is up to us to us to keep our country great and FREE and to remember that your vote does count. For any person who didn’t vote or voted 3rd person in what we knew was going to be a tight election, you have no right to complain if you don’t like what happens. She did win the popular vote and would likely have won the electoral college also if you had saved your protest vote this time and voted for her. In the future, if you don’t like what is happening to our government, roll up your sleeves and begin the long, slow hard work of changing it instead of dropping out. Once again Susan, thank you for speaking your “peace” (I thought that word was more apropos to the situation) and yes, I do wish that you had said it before the election just as I wish Oprah had come out way earlier also, but the point is that you said it. I have always loved your work and will continue to do so until you stop producing it. May God bless you and yours (including your dad and girl kitty). Much love, Patricia
For the past 30 years I believe I have read just about everything you have written. Thank you for this post. To date, I feel it is the best writing you have ever done. I agree with you in that people are hurting, angry and afraid, but are basically good and they want what everyone wants, for ourselves, our families, our communities and our country. I too was born with the happy gene and I look forward to being able to return to reading your typical style of blog. BUT if you are inclined to write such a heartfelt post again, I encourage you to do so. You have always been honest and forthcoming with your readers. Don’t stop now. Safe travels. Bon voyage!
That’s a huge compliment and vote of confidence, Mary Jo, so very kind of you. Thank you so much. xoxo
I so appreciate the time you took to express for so many of us what we feel,
yet don’t have the words as you do, to express overwhelming feelings of “mourning” that my friends and I have had since the election. I agree completely with each point you made and feel badly that even you, with kind and loving soul, are being criticized and called out on what was on your heart. I will never understand what justifies mean-spiritedness toward others.
I will never understand either, was so hoping to help heal that. xoxo
Thank you so much for this Susan. I wish more of my favorite blogs- which 100% of them are written by women – would have done the same in voicing their opinions. My mom and I just love your blog. My son Elliott is seven and loves to look at your books with me and ask “what is Joe is up to?” You bring a lot of light into the world and your opinion matters to many. Knowing that you care so deeply as we do, makes me feel a little better (even though you brought me to tears with your words 😀 ) about what might play out from this electoral vote. I think the popular vote results speak volumes btw. Hopefully we all learned something from this election and can apply it to our everyday lives.
I wish you and Joe all the best. Your father is proud of you for sure.
Oh how darling Elliott is, I’ll tell Joe! It will make his day! I brought myself to tears when I was writing this, so I’m not too surprised! And now again, with your last sentence.😥 My job is to live for me, but for him too, and I feel him every day. Thank you so much Melanie. That was the sweetest thing you could say to me. xoxo
Darling girl, Have already begun getting friends meeting and talking about the 2018 election-when we re-build Congress. The KKK has already staged a rally on my Courthouse Square, and delightfully, been quickly shut down. There’s work at hand. Hurry home!!! And hug R for me!
I will be HAPPY to do that. It’s going to be very hard to leave her. As you know. Love you JoEllen . . .xoxo
Hi Susan,
I LOVE your blog, your artwork, sharing in your amazing trips, your cozy ideas for home decorating and cooking! Such a ‘get-away’ from the stress of life! BUT I would much rather not hear about all the political stuff…I can get that anywhere on the TV, etc, etc. It is certainly your blog and your choice, but just letting you know the sweetness/uniqueness of your website/blog is taken away when you talk politics. In this stressful world we don’t need more stress. Thank you, Susan. 🙂
I tried not to make it political Mary, I don’t feel political, I feel worried. I had to say something. This won’t be turning into a political blog. But I’m a person that belongs to the world, and it belongs to me, I can’t pretend I’m not in it. Thank you for speaking your mind. xoxo
Wage Peace
By Judyth Hill*
Wage peace with your breath.
Breathe in firemen and rubble,
breathe out whole buildings
and flocks of redwing blackbirds.
Breathe in terrorists and breathe out sleeping children
and freshly mown fields.
Breathe in confusion and breathe out maple trees.
Breathe in the fallen
and breathe out lifelong friendships intact.
Wage peace with your listening:
hearing sirens, pray loud.
Remember your tools:
flower seeds, clothes pins, clean rivers.
Make soup.
Play music, learn the word for thank you in three languages.
Learn to knit, and make a hat.
Think of chaos as dancing raspberries,
imagine grief as the outbreath of beauty
or the gesture of fish.
Swim for the other side.
Wage peace.
Never has the world seemed so fresh and precious.
have a cup of tea and rejoice.
Act as if armistice has already arrived.
Celebrate today.
*Thank you Susan for speaking your truth*
Oh how I love that poem, so very much … thank you for posting it Miriam, it is PERFECTION! Wage peace. Knit a hat.
LOVE THAT POEM! Thank you!
💕😇
So sorry that you ruined this beautiful blog for me by getting into “politics”. This was my getaway from that scary world. I will probably continue to read your blog and buy your books and other products, but this truly saddens me. I have other blogs that I read and I am always glad when one of their rules is no posting about religion, politics, or sex. The world is pounding us hard enough as it is, but when the things I choose to read that give me respite from that harsh world choose to go in that direction (even once), I am disheartened.
I’m so sorry Rebecca. I just couldn’t ignore it and still be proud of myself. xoxo
Susan, I agree with Rebecca Winters 100%. I have felt for the last 8 years just as you do now. I actually was depressed over Obama, a man we know nothing about, winning two terms. I have watched him ridicule Republicans and FoxNews repeatedly through the years. Those words came from him — not “talking heads.” In doing that he belittled me, and I have never felt he truly cared about my positions on any issue (which are conservative). In spite of our political differences, I love and own almost all of your books, and I have already bought (at her request) my 7-year-old granddaughter her second wall calendar for one of her Christmas gifts. She also wants one of your books, but I don’t think any are just perfect for a 7-year-old. Please consider writing one for little girls who admire you so much. Note: My older brother is a liberal Democrat, and I am a conservative Republican. We were produced by the same parents. I’m not sure why we have such different views, but we still love each other. I will look forward to your next blog that I hope will bring happiness to my heart as it has in the past. Try to imagine what I have been feeling for the last 8 years and the relief I feel now although I was supporting another Republican candidate.
None of them are perfect, but Fox News is the most divisive, truth-deficient media outlet on television. There are a lot worse on the radio and the internet, spreading a web of hate that hurts us all. Not because I disagree with their “fake news,” but because when fact-checked, they fail. I appreciate your comment, made with best intentions, I honestly do. Please don’t be mad at me for responding this way.
Susan: I am upset with your post today. I feel you might as well be one of those whiney protestors in the streets carrying signs “He’s not my President” ranting and raving because you did not get your way and your candidate did not win! I wasn’t crazy about either candidate, but I voted for the one who was the closest to my values and I thought would be best for the country. Well the majority in America have spoken, Get over it! That’s the way our great country works! Give the man a chance. He has not even taken over the oval office and to me you are just inciting people just like the rioters in the streets with your harsh words. No difference. No, I did not like it 8 years ago when Obama won and won 4 years ago again! I felt the same as you, but I didn’t go out spreading harsh words inciting people into frenzies against our President and causing fear in folk’s hearts. That’s just wrong. I just prayed to my God and stuck it out and He gave me peace. No candidate is perfect and all have flaws. When you are frustrated and have fears, you have to turn to God who can calm your fears. When I read your harsh words, I was almost tempted to lash out really, really bad, but I said no, calm down, take a deep breath, and we all have freedom of speech in this great country. And that is everyone’s right. That is what is so great about America. But let’s don’t throw in our towels girlfriends. We must work together and pray and hope for better days. Let’s not down our new President, but lift him up in prayer and pray for one another that we will all be one nation under God! God says to us in His word in Jeremiah 29:11-13 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope! Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all of your heart!
I know you are frustrated, but take a deep breath, pray to God, pray for our Country, pray for one another and let us bind together as Americans, we can still hold our elected officials accountable, but relax… and give peace a chance. Susan, I was ready to retire and was diagnosed with breast cancer. But all things happen for a reason and a purpose. The Bible says it rains on the just and the unjust. I feel this little “bump in the road” was to draw me closer to God.” I go to chemo every other week and I am doing great. I pray every day and I know God is healing me and I will have a story to tell others and help them along their journey. I have so much to be thankful for and so do you Susan. Why get so troubled when God is in charge of it all anyway. I have never had so much peace and joy in my entire life. So as I said let’s all pray for our country and each other. Don’t get distracted and upset but pray! That is the key to change things and forgiveness.
I tried very hard to be honest, and caring in my remarks, especially focusing on the manipulation that is a detriment to our way of life in America, ripping our people apart for no reason whatsoever. As I have said many times, one of my favorite proverbs is “Pray to God but continue to row toward shore.” Exactly what you are doing. Praying to God but going for Chemo. Of course, that’s the smart thing to do and that’s also true in our very dangerous world these days. Wishing you all the very best. I’m so sorry you’re having to go through this terrifying thing, my prayers are with you.
I hope Judy Ann realizes Hillary DID win the election. The Electoral College, an antiquated system with no validity, needs to be changed. And this is not the first election in which it has turned around the popular vote ~ which IS the actual vote of we, the people. I am tired of people saying to “get over it”. Get over WHAT????? I wonder if the outcome had been the opposite ~ with Hillary losing the popular vote, but getting the Electoral College nod ~ if they would be so happy to “get over it”. From his rhetoric before the election, it wouldn’t have been quite so easy. He is the one who whined for weeks about things being “rigged” and how awful & not necessary the EC is.
Reading the NY times does NOT mean you are getting the truth. They are very liberal. You keep insinuating that what you believe and say is THE TRUTH. You’ve posted a lot of crap that every liberal thinks is the truth. Asking people to follow our laws is NOT racist.
Not really, I just see this huge divide that has come between us. It didn’t used to be there. So I started asking myself why, and then I saw who was benefiting and who was losing, it’s really pretty clear when you stand back and look at it. I don’t read the NY Times. And you are right, we make laws for a reason and they should be followed.
Do you not see people in the streets advocating for illegal immigrants to defy federal law? Let’s you and I put on a Trump hat and walk on a college campus and let’s see who the haters are.
Again, and I will drag us back to the subject every time. I didn’t write a blog to debate Hillary or Trump. I wrote it to talk about what is happening to us as a people. That’s all.
Time for you to look in the mirror Michelle.
And once again, Michelle, it doesn’t really matter which candidate won, we’d still be in this same boat, divided and blaming each other. It’s wrong. You are a good person, you don’t need me to tell you that, but I am too. We should be putting our heads together to see how we can make a better world for our children, instead of having this back and forth about, may I say it, NOTHING!!!
I didn’t see any “harsh words inciting people into frenzies against our President and causing fear” in your post, and I have to wonder at the hate someone who does see that must have to distort things so greatly. I am surpised, though I probably shouldn’t be, at the number of posts disagreeing with you, or condemning you for expressing your feelings. I personally think people should just stop watching network and cable news, because it is more propaganda than news now. I admire your courage in posting this, and your ability to make the point that we are being manipulated and controlled, without showing any vitriol or hate. As you said, if you repeat a lie often and long enough, it becomes truth in people’s minds, and so few ever bother to check the facts for themselves. Sorry you are getting flack for this, and greatly admire the way you respond to it. I am going to go buy a ton of your stuff in support.
It’s okay. And thank you. xoxo
Hi Judy Ann – I love the quote from Maya Angelo – “When people show you who they are – believe them the first time” This applies to DT. He showed us who is was in the campaign. You can’t deny that. He called people names, mocked people with disabilities and conducted himself with ZERO respect for all people. And he talked and talked about how much we should be fearful. There wasn’t any love in his words to us. The exact opposite. Hate. He never reached out to bring us all together. and he still hasn’t despite all the horrible events now going on since he was elected. Again, you and everyone else that voted for him must be in absolute pain to be able to mask over his rhetoric’s. I’ll never understand it. But as you say to do – I will pray for him because if he goes down – we ALL go down.
Thank you Judy Ann from Georgia. I couldn’t have said it better.
Judy Ann unlike Susan’s, yours was truly a healing post. It’s easy to say you want us all to be healed and then turn around and discredit half your audience. You are absolutely right, God our Savior is the only one to calm our fears. Trust in Him and things always work out. God bless you as you go through chemo…I will keep you in my prayers.
God Bless you for writing this!! God Bless us all!! I have been having such a hard time with HOW THIS CAN EVEN BE!!!
We all need more people like you!
Thank you for being you!!
I keep thinking there has to be a way that the two sides, especially between women, can begin to come together ~ I hoped that this fake news onslaught would be as apparent to everyone else as it is to me. That is my prayer any way, and I had to try. xoxo
Thank you, thank you thank you, Susan! AHA! You have diagnosed exactly why I haven’t been sleeping even though I am exhausted! I get into my cozy bed and my mind starts thinking of a million different scenarios and before I know it, it is 4:30 AM…thank you for your words, your perspective and your insight. I stopped watching news because the pundits are all STILL arguing~just like they were before the election! I am waiting with bated breath, hoping for strength for us all and praying that since God already knows what is going to happen, we’ll all be okay. We have had a glorious fall here in northern Michigan, but ❄️❄️❄️ may arrive this weekend😳 Safe travels to you and Joe…xoxo
You and me, we’re twins. 4:30, worrying sick. It will have to stop because there’s not a darn thing I can do about it but pray. Snow! Oh boy, now that does cheer me up. Hopefully I’ll get home and get cozy before it starts. I just bought the cutest new wool hat at a Christmas Fair here in England, so I’m all ready for the onslaught!
Amazing Susan, thank you so much for writing this. The media here in England are also totally out of control and so many lies are reported. My family and friends were shaken with the results of Brexit and even more so when Trump was elected. Like you, one of my sons is finding it hard to sleep. There is a campaign I am supporting called ‘Stop Funding Hate’ that is growing in momentum every day, asking large companies not to advertise in some of the more salacious newspapers. As a teacher of 5 year olds I am always telling them how important it is to tell the truth. I think we are in for a rocky ride; we must stick together, promote goodness and kindness and love.
Safe journey home. xxx
So smart! Good for you Rosemary, you’re doing something. I heard this morning that some British newspapers are starting to work to make sure “fake news” isn’t getting into the loop … hard to do! Especially with the Internet. Because if people believe there is no climate change due to fake news, consequences are serious. We so need truth.
Thank you for sharing this. I’ve been very sad since the election. And worried. Knowing that people like you are out there — and knowing that there are MANY of us — helps.
xoxo and safe travels home. Hope you’ve enjoyed your time in England.
It’s been a true gift, Joe and I feel lucky, and torn about going home, very happy and yes, very sad too. The best part? Home and kitty, and as soon as I get the 2018 calendars designed, I get to go see my MOM! Yay! Lots to look forward to. xoxo
Thank you for being brave and speaking out. I’ve always enjoyed your art (And your love for England, as that’s where my husband is from.) and am so happy to hear you speaking your conscience and your heart. These are indeed hard times. The election broke my heart and the violence and anger is saddening. I liked the quote you said about praying to God but continuing to row toward the shore. We all need to work to shut out the lies and embrace our kindness. We all need more of that.
Some of us, for reasons I’m still grappling very hard to understand, apparently have difficulty seeing what I believe I am seeing, this manipulation by the press, by lobbyists, etc.
PLEASE PRAY FOR AMERICA!
If you heard the TV and radio here in England you would widen your prayer circle by quite a bit! xoxo
Dearest Susan. Thank you so very much. I live in Canada and having been watching the unfolding of everything you spoke of. I do share your ‘follow the money’ philosophy.
I have been grappling with the same unease and dismay you speak of. I come to you and your blog to read your view of the world. The world seen through the eyes of the happiness gene. Then you posted this…And I realized that even though you are a very happy person, living what I consider an idyllic life, you see and process things in a very intelligent and knowledgable and real way. You feel the same as I do. As we do. You do not see the world through rose coloured glasses. You just pick yourself up and get on with the happiness.
Today you taught me something very important. Happiness does not mean you never feel the angst of the world, you just don’t it become who you are. This is so timely for me you have no idea.
You are such a treasure I cannot put it into words. Thank you again.
Your girlfriend,
Erin
Thank you Erin, no, I’m definitely a part of the world. I could fake it and pretend I’m not, but that does not appeal to me at all. But I feel lucky, I can see the good in almost everything. Love you!
My dearest Susan.
I can only imagine how hard it was for you to write this. I watched as the election results were broadcast and felt my heart sink.
I believe that we, as citizens of the world, share more similarities than differences. I believe people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.
My little father in his strong Italian accent always said ‘If you no got your name you got nothing’.
Money cannot buy love or respect. Actions speak louder than words.
Thank you, Susan! Lovely, true and sincere post!
I’ve thought over the past couple of months, “Susan is removed from this; she’s overseas in fairytale places; she has missed this whole mess back in the U.S.” Instead, being abroad and far away, news from home has maybe given you perspective that perhaps some of the rest of us, blocked by our own broken hearts and bewilderment, haven’t yet gotten. So, this post from you, is…really important. It’s given me pause. I’d sworn off news stories after the election (for my sanity), then thought, no, I need to be aware and awake, we all have to be ON this, no heads in the sand. But everything feels haphazard. Emotions all over the map. Up one day, down the next. It’s all just so confusing and serious and really unnerving to live with new fear. To know what to believe; what not to believe. To lose faith. The danger in losing hope. I’m a boomer, we were taught to question, yet I don’t like living with suspicion all the time either. Never in my life have I ever faced such a thought, that my strong and beloved country could slip away; that the wrong person could actually wind up with big power here…and undermine us. I’ve blindly gone about my way, never ‘into’ politics, not understanding enough about how the U.S. runs itself; instead, patriotic and trustful, which felt comforting.
But I’ve always known I lived better in the 1970s when I made a lot less money. And I’ve lived with a house ‘under water’ in the recession, knowing if my husband lost his job, we’d have to let go of our home and walk away with less than a cent (bag-lady fears coming to a head, which was no punchline or joke; we all saw it happen to decent people; and people are STILL suffering the effects). I miss the Mom & Pop stores in town. A woman here recently tried to have a fabric store on our dying Main Street but there’s a sign in her shop window now that says, “Going out of business.” Meanwhile, I coincidentally went to a Walmart yesterday (I’ve only been in Walmart three times in my entire life) and the vast parking lot was so packed that I could NOT find a place to park; the store was FULL of people. So, Main Street vs. Walmart. Huge disconnect. Yes. I’m part of my own problem. But some of us have done these things over the years innocently. Uninformed. (Even yesterday, all I wanted to do was see Pioneer Woman’s new Christmas line; it didn’t seem like a bad thing at the time.) Time to grow up.
I can sit here now and, kinda like with a failed romantic relationship, say to myself, “How did we get so far off track; when did it all start to go so wrong?” It’s a lot of backtracking to try to figure it out—and you’ve done that for us here. I feel like I understand things better now, although it’s very sobering (maybe I needed to hear it from somebody like you, who’s removed from the ‘news’ business; and said with your heartfelt/genuine words; HONESTY [I did read, hope I have these stats right, that at least 40% of people get their news info from Facebook, which is scary considering, like you said, that so much of it is inaccurate]). Where do we go from here. Disappointment and despair … and wariness … is a way to get sick fast. Joy stealers.
We need you back home, Susan. We need you now more than ever.