MUSICA!❤️ Well, first off, I promised you a photo of the wool coat I bought in England ~ the one I wrote about a couple of blogs ago … And I finally managed to remember to do it. And, btw, while out and about on the Internet, I happened upon a website in the English Lake District that sells them (just in cases you want one too! The label says, “handmade.”). It’s a wonderful store Joe and I visited when we were there called Stewardson’s of Hawkshead .
Welcome over from the new Willard if that’s where you’ve come from (he’s just starting to go out today ~ takes 3 days for him to get to every email box, so if you’re signed up, he 
should be there soon!), and if not, welcome anyway! As lots of you know, Joe and I are on the train right now, in our “room with a view,” actually in the beautiful Berkshires as I write, heading down the tracks for Chicago, then on to LA ~ and right now, out our window, is the most gorgeous sunset between the leafless tress and across snow fields! It’s kind of a miracle, to be on a moving train and writing you at the same time! I’ve been sending photos and videos of our views over to Twitter … hope you’ve been able to see them (you can click on the link and take a look if you like, you don’t have to join Twitter in order to see the pictures).
Yesterday, before we left (which was just this morning), I needed to do some ironing for the trip. I’m sure many of us remember our mothers starching clothes before they ironed them ~ rolling them up while damp, putting them in plastic bags and keeping them in the fridge until they were ready to iron. Seems so old-fashioned to us now! My mom did it, there were always bundles of ironing in our fridge, she ironed all my little sister’s puffed-sleeved dresses with starch, and taught me to do it too. And my dad’s shirts ~ we were all very crisp around our house. And it wasn’t spray starch, it was the real thing. Liquid starch, the kind she used, is hard to find, at least where we live . . . our supermarket doesn’t sell it anymore, I had to go to Amazon to get it. Mostly, these days, it’s used for crafts, but I have this linen jacket I was bringing along that is no good without good old-fashioned starch, spray starch just doesn’t do it. In fact, I have a lot of things I use real starch on. There’s actually a really good reason to do it! I’ll show you! (Jack, as you can see, was there for the whole thing! But he was more interested in . . .
. . . what was going on outside our kitchen window, than what was going on inside . . .)
So, just in case it’s been a long time, or maybe never, since you starched something, and just in cases you’d like to try it . . . here’s how. It’s really easy. First off, you can read on the bottle how much starch to mix with how much water to make the fabric as stiff as you’d like it to be.
I wanted my jacket to be slightly stiffer than medium, so I mixed 4 c. water with 2 c. starch in a very large bowl. My summer potato salad bowl if you want to know.
I swirled it around with my hand to mix it . . .
Then I put my clean linen jacket into the liquid and got it soaking wet.
I took it out and rung it out as best I could … then I noticed all that left over starch and thought, what else do I have? Then I remembered I’d just washed a dresser scarf from the bathroom and thought, perfect timing!
I like dresser scarves to be really quite stiff, so I added a bit more starch.
And in it went.
Then they both went out to the pantry to partly dry on the clothes rack. Soaking wet is not good for ironing, you want them damp. So while that was happening . . .
I wrapped birthday presents for my mom, we’re heading to California to celebrate her 87th birthday (on the 27th)! 🎁 She loves it when I wrap her things in my own paper, so I ordered some from Spoonflower, (the people I do the fabric for … they make all the fabric patterns into wrapping paper too!) which I’d never done before, I was interested to see the quality. And was happy because it’s the thick stuff! Very nice.🎈My mom will love it!
And then, for a couple of good reasons, I made a cake ~ An Orange Marmalade Cake, because Jack’s other Mother was coming from California to stay with him while we’re away . . . and we were making dinner for her . . . and also, because every time Lowely makes something delicious, she always brings me half.
And I wanted to do the same for her before we went away.
Which I did. She only lives two doors down, so I walked it over, and got a goodbye hug. The next time I’m doing a blog and NOT on the train, I’ll give you the recipe! It was delicious!
So then it was time to iron. And what is the first thing I have to do? I have to get Jack’s hair off the ironing board, unless I want to iron it into my clothes. The ironing board doubles as his perch at the pantry window to watch the world go by. So I got out my packing tape, laid a big long strip down, and moved it along until all his little hairs were stuck to it!
And now, I’m ironing. And it’s coming out beautifully.
Voila! When you starch something, it stays fresh looking so much longer. You can wear it and re-wear it and it doesn’t look wilted.
And that, in a nutshell, is why I love starched things. They last forever.
Here’s my dresser scarf, back on the table in the bathroom. Note shadow under table.
Old linens are one of my passions, loves, downfalls. The beautiful cloth, the delicate embroidery and the cotton lace ~ irresistable! Smoothing an old damask tablecloth onto my dining table is one of the simple joys of life. Lighting a candle on that table, where it almost reflects in the sheen of the cloth, is another.
Here is an example of starch and what it does. I haven’t ironed these in over 6 months. No one really uses them, because a terry hand towel is right there, so they are really more decorative than anything, but they look as nice today as they did when I hung them up 5 years 6 months ago.😜
These are the bathroom curtains in that same room, made from an old lace tablecloth, the last of the ones I brought from California when I moved into my first little house on the island. Starched and perky, I won’t have to do it again for a long time. You could never do this with spray starch. Not even with the one that says, “Heavy.”
And here are a few more linen things, just so you get the picture, which I’m sure you do by now! I should be a door-to-door liquid starch salesperson!
One more tip, and that is, you may have starched something a while back, like this linen jacket. But maybe it was crushed in the closet and got kind of wrinkled again. No problem…
As long as it’s clean, you don’t have to rewash and starch, you just spray on a little water, and iron, and it all that good starchiness comes right back.
And there they are, ready to go into plastic bags and into the hanging bag … yes, they will need a touch up when we get there, but it won’t be much! So there you go, adventures in ironing from the Heart of the Home! Pure
Okay, enough about ironing, how about some maple syrup? I LOVED your comments in the last post, like I always do, thank you so much.💞 And yes, we did stuff poor Vanna into our duffel bag, she’s here, fluffed out, head to toe in pink cashmere with a leopard faux fur collar (she knows how to be comfy), complaining because she broke a nail and there’s “no manicurist on board.” It’s okay, we’ll fly her outta here when we get to Chicago. Her and her “little pink zipper bag”👛 which we have had to find for her about six times now. She’s a princess. Not fit for train travel. We knew we would need her for the drawing for our Vermont Valentine Giveaway . . . and so, with no further adieu … Vanna? Come here darling… (oh, the look on her face😱) ~ here we go . . . the WINNER of this delicious Vermont syrup (I know because we got a bottle of this too!) is . . . . PAMELA TASKER!!!!! Congratulations Pamela! You will love this! Be sure to heat it up before you pour it on everything! Look for an email from me in your box . . . I’ll need your mailing address so I can send it to you.
And now, so it doesn’t have to end . . . there’s more . . .
Hello. Remember I showed you these cups I was designing a while back? That’s the one I designed on the left, my glued and pasted paper cup without a bottom. And on the right, that’s the sample they sent! Pretty darn wonderful if I do say so myself! So I did more!
This one is called
and it has Ms. Lambikins on it, amongst other recognizable doodads from my flora and fauna art repertoire. Plenty to read early in the morning when the brain requires quiet time.
And this one is called
for us, the normal ones.💞
Last but not least, we have “Little Things,” because 
All three are being made right now, of fine bone china, in the potteries, in England. Yes, real, bonafide English cups. ❤️ Each holds a truly magnificent 16 oz (if filled to the very top). I’m so excited. You who have hung out around this blog for a while, know how much I have wanted to do this. Finally, the time has come. They will likely be here in May, in time 
for Mother’s Day, if all goes as planned. And if you leave your name in the comment section of this blog,😁 you will be entered in a drawing to win one of these. There will be 3 winners, and the moment they come in, those winners will be the very first on our mailing list! And yes, just in cases you don’t win, they are available now for preorder. Which means, if we haven’t ordered enough, we should know fairly soon, and can get more into the works right away. After a decent amount of time, each of the designs are going to be retired, and replaced by new ones (I have so many fun ideas!) And the only place on earth where they will be available, at least for the foreseeable future, will be here in our web store. I hope you like them.💖
The last time I was in California, Joe and I were driving across country … I picked these two roses, one from my Grandma’s garden, and one from my moms. They sat on the dashboard of the Fine Romance Van the entire way. And when I got home, I took this photo of them. As beautiful as they were when they were first cut. In two days I will be in my mother’s arms. 💞 The dearest person, who was in labor with me for so long (72 hours) that a tiny piece of her soul broke off, and went into me. And that is the way it has always been and will always be. I feel so lucky. Thank you all for being here. Have a wonderful day! WILLARD’S on the way! I’ll be back soon!
Oh Susan, I was meant to read your post tonight. I was sitting here missing my mom and wishing I could spend one more day with her. When I read that your mom and my mom share the same birthday 🙂 it somehow comforted me to know you will be able to celebrate with your mom. Give your mom and extra hug from me and enjoy every minute together. The new mugs are so pretty!!!
I have loved every single thing you do, since the very first day I “found” you in your shop on Martha’s Vineyard. The cups are fantastic! P.S. love Willard too.
Susan, I have bought and loved every cook book you have written, and have made receipe you have shared. Also, I read all 3 books about your adventures and wonderful marriage to Joe!
My mom bought each grandchild a tea set in the early 80’s, and our children have passed on the tradition to our grandchildren. Your love of tea and everything associated has filled our lives with laughter and making memories moments.
I have asked my sister, Tracy, to send me a Note Pads Set, for my 65 birthday in August.
I would love ❤️ to put my name in the contest for the beautiful mugs. They are very lovely.
Thanks, Susan – for the great idea about starching antique linens. I have 2 beautiful antique linen pillow shams with cotton lace ruffled trim that could benefit from this treatment! I love your mugs and will be certain to start my new collection of wonderful Susan Branch items. Have a wonderful trip and a very special visit with your precious Mom!
It would so wonderful to say, “Rabbit, Rabbit” and cheer the month on with one of your adorable mugs!
Thank you for sharing!
Julie
Oh how I love to hear the latest news from you. You are like a best friend and a sister at the same time. You are so talented and I’m so happy that good things are happening to you. Have a wonderful visit. Safe travels.
I thoroughly enjoy when you write about your home and all the cleaning and cooking tips you pass on to us. I remember my mother placing clothes in the refrigerator to iron later but I never knew why. Now I know and I will try this on all my antique linens etc. Love your blogs Susan!
I’ve been wondering what the status was on movies from your book! So far so good, I’m saying an extra prayer. As for the mugs – wow! I will be ordering some, one definitely for me and a couple for my friends. In the meantime, should Vanna pick my name by some small miracle I will be thrilled. Safe journey to your precious mom, she is also blessed to have you for a daughter!
Hi Susan, love to have one of your lovely mugs, they are sooo beautiful .
Hope you have a wonderful time with your mom.
Have a wonderful train journey. The only way to go cross country!
Hi Susan….I know u r looking forward to ur trip and seeling ur Mom. Also being n San Luis……it has been nice here n Calif. There has been some flooding but the weather is ok now. Hopefully it will be great for ur visit. Have a safe trip and have fun. Loretta
Beautiful scenery on your cross country trip. Have a wonderful time with your mom and other family members! Love the mugs, too.
The mugs are beautiful! Can’t wait!
I’m going to try your starch method on my linen shirts. They wrinkle too easily right now. Love the mugs!! Can’t wait to get them!!
I am glad could take the time out from packing for my train ride to take a peek at the blog eek & joy😍the first mugs are completed!! Amazing how quickly another of your dreams has become a reality. Will put ordering them on my to do list after spring training. Go Pirates😎
Sus, thanks so much for your wonderful love of life and your talent. I have loved your artwork for years and am thrilled with your new mugs! Thanks for making them 16 oz. it is SO HARD to find a 16 oz mug these days. Looking forward to getting mine asap and anything new you come up with! Any chance you’ll do checks again? I always got such great comments when I’d write a check for a purchase and they’d look at the lovely artwork!
I’d love to do checks!
Ohhhhhhhhhhhh my 😍😍😍 the mugs are adorable! Mas MUSICA ❤❤❤
Great for Mothers day 😍 and everyday
When my daughter went to college, years ago, they said ‘No painting the walls.’ The girl was born with her Mom’s decorating gene so we soaked colored bedsheets in heavy starch (yes, the liquid kind!) and hand pressed them to the plaster walls. They stuck beautifully, adding the needed color to an accent wall. The sheets pulled off easily when she moved. When she was a little girl, many years college of course, I used to smock and do French hand sewing, starching each of her little dresses with care. Starched pinafores would cover dresses for double the wear. This Mom has ironed some serious puff sleeves! Here’s to starch, a walk down memory lane, and another good blog!
I hope you have a great trip to the west! Enjoy your time with your Mom. 🙂 Kit
I love taking the train. Although I haven’t taken any long distance trips yet, My daughter and I have taken the train from Boston to NY for mini vacations. Much more relaxing than driving. Enjoy your trip! Love the mugs!
I feel like a complete novice to housekeeping and ironing and starching kind of things. I am the 7th of 8 children and by the time I came along, my dear mother was exhausted. My older siblings are all boys. Anyway, I followed her around and by habit I learned to keep a tidy house but I never learned little secrets like this starching knowledge. I was reading Anne’s House of Dreams with my children last week and Anne and Leslie talk about having their work done. I wish my mother and grandmother had thought it interesting enough to write down in detail what their routines and daily tasks around the home and family were. I feel a little bereft of the knowledge they thought was so common it was boring and not worth recording. Ahhh! And my mom says she doesn’t remember anymore. These little tidbits matter! Thank you for sharing. Keep it up! I’m soaking them up, starch and all. 🙂
Lovely Jill. Read some of the comments, there are tidbits galore!
I am in LOVE with the new Love mug! I hope Vanna draws my name – a keepsake forever:)
I love the mugs, especially the “Love” mug, they are so whimsical and lovely! I am also wishing your mother a very happy 87th birthday! Hope you have a safe and enjoyable trip out west…..Blessings ~ Cissy
My mom kept ironing in the fridge, too. It’s a bit of nostalgia that brings a smile. My kids would never get it. Love the mugs. They’re beautiful and big!
As always, thank you for the loveliness. Your posts inspire and speak to me of all the things I also hold dear. They remind me of the better parts of who I am- the parts I want to grow up into.
Would love to win one of your beautiful cups! ❤
Have a wonderful visit with your mum, your soul mother! Love the starch, love the mugs. And love the Rupert Brooke quote–I had tea a few years ago at the Orchard Tea Rooms just outside Cambridge, which inspired the poem.
Bon voyage!
I pre-ordered. Sooooooo looking forward to their arrival!
darling mugs!!
Dear Susan …. a safe journey back to CA … love ALL 3 of your mug designs!!
With Aloha-ha, Evie in San Diego (my only sibling brother Danny passed away in January and it has left a hole in my heart … just thought sharing my grief with you would help me heal the sadness💙
I’m so sorry Evie, it’s only time that can begin to ease the pain. I know that now. But love survives everything. xoxo (((hugs)))
Oh, do I love these mugs!
Love your beautiful artwork! Always have to have one or two of your calendars every year. Your positivity puts a smile on my face! Have a wonderful trip and visit with your Mom! Thank you for the opportunity to win one of your mugs! They are so very pretty!
Oh, Susan … I absolutely love The Little Things cup (I love all three but this one is my favorite). I’m so glad they’re 16 oz. – I need a larger cup. They really are the cutest things! Thanks so much for coming up with them. 🙂
Thanks for being here!
Hi Susan! Congratulations on your new mugs! They are C*H*A*R*M*I*N*G. I am so glad that your artwork wasn’t muddied..or the colors dimmed. It’s amazing to me how such a simple thing can create such joy. But then again, you seem to spin magic wherever you go. Thank you for sharing with such a generous heart. Love, Nina
They did a great job with the colors! Thank you Nina, that was very sweet of you!
The mugs are absolutely lovely! I also adore old linens, especially vintage hankerchiefs!
Safe travels as you cross the country Susan. Sounds like you’re “covered” but I’ll keep you and Joe in my prayers. Happy Birthday to your Mom. Your train travel has inspired me to take my granddaughter on a train trip, just me and her. Someday soon we’ll take the 3 or 4 hour trip between her house and mine. My son-in-law was totally excited about the idea when I mentioned it. Something my granddaughter will always remember.
Your mugs are so lovely and nice fine bone china made in England too. I can’t wait to own one (or more hopefully). It was a pleasant surprise actually. I can already see the Christmas mug in my mind. Any chance that the pottery making them would make anything else, like cake plates, serving dishes or candy dishes? That would be a dream come true.
Any chance you are able to have a permanent place on your blog to access Spoonflower? So if we’re on your blog we can click and get right into your fabric etc. on Spoonflower to see what’s new.
That trip is going to be perfect. Just enough time for her to get the feel of train travel with her Grandma! We are working on other pieces ~ and great idea about Spoonflower . . . I will let Kellee know! Thank you Rhonda! Have a wonderful day!
Hi Rhonda, Just have to say that my darling grandmother took me on my first train trip when I was 8, and it is one of my favorite memories of our times together. It was almost 50 years ago, but I clearly remember sitting at our table in the dining car, which was covered with a crisp (assuredly starched) white linen tablecloth, and being fascinated by the changing views outside our window of the countryside between Portland and Seattle. I was thrilled with the exciting new experience, and loved that Nana wanted me along with her on a travel adventure. I remember she taught me the correct way to eat soup in that dining car, making me feel quite grown up and ready to learn more of the interesting ways of the world. I know you and your granddaughter will have a magical time together and she will always treasure the memory. ♡
Oops, 60 years ago!! Haha 😀 Time does fly!
Thank you Christie. I’m so excited about taking this train trip with my granddaughter. Not sure when we’ll do it. She is 5 this year. But I think she is old enough to enjoy the experience and we can do it again when she’s a bit older. I’m journaling with her, so we will have the photos to remember the trip. I am so hoping it will be a magical time for both of us.
Hi, Sue ~
I have just loved these last couple of blog postings! You and I must be connected by an invisible thread. I love what you love! Fun, romantic get-aways with your sweetheart, covered bridges, wool coats, cardinal couples outside the kitchen window, freshly starched and ironed linens, the aroma of a freshly baked cake and girlfriends to share it with, and the pride and satisfaction that comes from creating something wonderful with your own two hands.
It doesn’t take much to make us happy 🙂 Just a few little things, right? 🙂
Oh, speaking of happy and little things ~ I’m still on cloud 9 after the arrival last month of our 4th granddaughter! It seems like yesterday (but it’s been over 5 yrs!) that I was telling you about our first granddaughter and now we have 4!! The 5 yr. old, Izzy, spent the day with us today and we had a tea party, using my EB mugs. Izzy and I would just adore YOUR new tea cups…so sweet!
Wishing you and Joe a safe trip and a wonderful visit with your Mom <3
xoDebbie
SO happy for you Debbie! Congratulations! And now you have four, what a busy family! And you have a new best friend, Izzy! Thank you! xoxo
I am so glad you made a 16 oz. mug. Can’t think of anything I would love more! All 3 designs are wonderful, and so are YOU! 🙂
Love England, tea and adore your artwork! It mirrors your soul. You make a difference, and this world is one person better because of you. I’m glad to say we share April as our birthday month (even if I’m three years older). Thank you always for bringing me comfort and perspective with your words and beautiful pictures. I would cherish a mug because little things mean the most. God bless you always, Suzanne
I absolutely adore your new bone china mugs, especially “Little Things”, because that’s my every day motto. Thank you for bringing such beautiful little things that bring joy into our every day life!
Your mugs look so nice! I wish liquid starch was more available in the local stores. I would use it for quilting and now I must try it on a linen jacket.
Pick me Vanna, pick me!!
I love the cups! ❤️ And I probably need to get some regular starch for the many linens I inherited from my Mom. Yours turn out looking so crisp and pretty! I always enjoy your blogs and emails.
OOOOOOH! Susan, I love your new cups. I also love you and every book and word you have written, and have for 30 years. You cheer me when I most need cheering, (this strange, sad season in our country, may be the most needful of cheering). Thank you for all that you write, do and are. I plan to fall in love with every little every day thing that I can, thanks to your encouragement to do so.
Cheers and undying love to you! You are my hero.
How wonderful! A Willard AND your blog post on the same day!! I always come away smiling. I still use real starch, too. My mother used a Coke bottle with a corked sprinkler top and I loved to watch her sprinkle things and then fold and roll them up tightly to await the iron. Your mugs are adorable, and your orange marmalade cake looked divine! I’ll be watching for the recipe!! Happy travels to you and Joe!
Evelyn
Susan, I love all three of your mugs!! So sweet. Maybe this could be the start of a line of dinnerware and dishtowels!! Love it!
Fell in love with everything Susan Branch many, many years ago and have shared Susan with family and friends. Love the new mugs and would be honored to be the recipient of one♡
So glad that my friend Susan introduced me to you and your delightful blog! I do have real starch in my laundry room and really use it. Old linens just need that touch.
I only knew of spray starch, so thanks for the lesson. Sunset pic is gorgeous. Safe travels and love the mugs!
Enjoy your choo choo ride. I love the mugs…..sooooo perfect for breakfast coffee.
Thanks for the nicest way to end my day, reading this post!
The mugs are so sweet! How to choose?!?!
I can’t decide which one I like best! Thank you for sharing so much goodness. It gives me an example to emulate. 🙂
Love the coat! Love the starch tutorial! Love the mugs! Safe travels!
Enjoy your time with your Mum💕
Suzanne Less says:
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February 25, 2017 at 11:59 pm
Love England, tea and adore your artwork! It mirrors your soul. You make a difference, and this world is one person better because of you. I’m glad to say we share April as our birthday month (even if I’m three years older). Thank you always for bringing me comfort and perspective with your words and beautiful pictures. I would cherish a mug because little things mean the most. God bless you always, Suzanne
I didn’t think anyone was older than me! Happy almost birthday to us! And thank you for the lovely, kind words. Blessings on you and yours.xoxo
Enjoy your train trip!! I know you will. You have the happy gene and you will be happy wherever you are planted. I am the same way. I do enjoy your blog and books. And all your lovely artwork!! Love, Debbie ❤💕🤗
SO lovely!! I can see myself, sipping tea in the beach in the LOVE mug!
Please please please. I would love to have one of your cups to remind me to not take life so seriously. I feel as if a little bit of fresh air has just breezed by me as I read your posts. They make me feel happy in this crazy world.
Love the pictures of your mugs. They are darling. Have a wonderful visit with your Mom. You are lucky to still have her. I’m sure she is very proud of you.
Greetings from South Africa – your Willard arrived for my lazy sunday morning lie in – such
a treat – My Brit husband Steve is reading A Fine Romance – he wants to know what made me agree to go to the lake district (he’s chuckling so must be enjoying it) we will have three days there in April – my first trip to the U.K. and I am so looking forward to it, more so thanks to you and all the experiences you have shared over the years … Travel safe, have fun and I’m looking forward to the marmalade cake recipe when you’re back home.
You are going to fall SO in love, and three days will just about kill you for the desire for MORE!! Just a small warning. I’m so happy for you and for Steve. Don’t miss a boat ride on Windemere. You get the lay of the land that way, and a big breath of Lakeland nature.
My Mom would put her damp clothes to be ironed in the freezer! I was mesmerized to watch those stiff as a board clothes get pressed smooth. I rarely iron, but you made the starching process look so interesting, I may have to try it! After some rain in LA this weekend, we’re supposed to have sunny, warm days. Enjoy!
The trick with anything, start small, and don’t allow it to become a grind!
One more good tip from one of the Girlfriends. In the freezer. That should keep the mildew at bay. Thanks, Brenda
Debbie in Tampa…for now
I can’t wait to dig out my clean white linens and give them this treatment. Thank you for sharing this secret! I remember my grandmother chilling clothes in bags and then ironing but I didn’t know how she got them so slick and crisp. Thank you! And. Can’t wait to order the adorable mugs! Hope I win one for my collection! Safe travels!
I love the mugs so much! They are so much my style!! Please Vanna pick me!!👏Have a wonderful trip to SLO! I wish I could be there! Maybe my mom and dad will make it to see you, since they live there! 😘
That would be good, they could get something signed to you!
It was startling to me when I first read your blog and found you were living the life I dreamed of. I had so much in common with you. When I was young I loved history and wanted to travel to the New England states. But unlike you, I was not brave enough to strike out alone.
I was hurt by one I thought to marry and waited until my 30’s before making that decision.
I didn’t realize I had any ability to draw until 12th grade at which time my last required painting was destroyed by some rough housing boys. When my teacher approached me she was so hurt about it, I just told her I would do another one. She presented me with a poem at the end of the year expressing how much she admired my quiet determination. One day many years later I sketched my son while he was sitting doing his 3rd grade homework. He was so excited. His admiration and belief in me surprised and encouraged me . However, with work, a husband and 2 children life seem to be in the way.
Approximately 15 years ago I began a college drawing class, the oldest there. My husband thought it was a waste of time and money and voiced this many times, but I made an A and loved every minute! I’d wait until the children would be in bed and stay up until wee hours of the morning,it was sheer fun. I was drawing almost to daylight, catching a few winks and back up to take the children to school. I completed the class and intended to sign up for the second semester when I was told I had bladder cancer. Needless to say I did not return, although everything did turn out well. About 3 years ago I was dreaming again. The desire to make the dream of a “real” artist and author of children’s books come true. I thought how much I liked the art work in the recipe saver I had. Hmm wonder if it recognized the artist anywhere on it. Lol it was none other than you, “Susan Branch”. So I googled and wow I found the most delightful blog! I have since bought 3 cookbooks, wall and desk calendars and your last 3 book series.
I think I speak for many of us when I say, “Thank You”, for sharing your life, for giving of your time, for giving to us such an honest, uplifting fun format.
Teresa in VA
Thank YOU for sharing your story of how we came to find each other . . . So happy you are here Teresa . . . I hope you are drawing again, I hear the voice of yearning in you ~ I recognize that same thing in myself. Sending love xoxoxo
Hi Susan,
I have never heard of liquid starch, and I don’t even own an iron – but your enthusiasm for “the little things” makes me want to run out and buy both and begin! Bless you for the joy you share!
My dear friend Tracy Light passed away in December and she was one of your biggest fans – she would have loved those mugs and been the first to buy them. I so wish I could surprise her with them. And I wish she and I could discuss Willard together!
Bless you on your trip!
Oh, I am so sorry Laura, losing our girlfriends has to be the worst. I can’t even imagine. Irreplaceable people we share so much with, who know everything and love us anyway!
Susan, I was wondering today how you do it: love Joe, take walks, scratch the cats under the chin, write, create lovely art, bake, travel, run a business, decorate your home, and many more endeavors and . . . read all your comments and respond to tons of them! You are a marvel!
Thank you for replying so sweetly – they best ones are always irreplaceable!
XOXO, I’m sure you do all that same stuff and love it all as much as I do. Lucky us! xoxo
Thanks for the tips on using starch. Sometimes the “old” ways are still the best! Happy Birthday to your mom – mine is 86 (my dad is 90!). Aren’t we lucky?
We are so lucky!
My senior year of college my roommate asked what the roll of clothes in the refrigerator was. She didn’t know it was my ironing waiting to be done? You brought back such memories. I must try liquid starch on some of my dresser scarves soon.
Adorable mugs, and so nice they are made in England!!
Wishing your dear Mom a beautiful birthday.
Have a safe and happy journey. I know you will with those guardian angels!!
Susan — I thank you for this darling post. It brought back memories of my mom starching clothes when I was a child. Our freezer always had rolled up clothes in it, too! 😊 So much work! Mom also “took in” ironing for other families for extra money — and she had six children to care for as well! Bless her heart, I miss her every day, ❤️
Your cups are beautiful, and I am always thrilled to see new ideas for your designs. You are so talented! Thank you for sharing your artistic gift with all of us!
Bless her heart . . . xoxoxo
Thanks for everything!
I remember my mum using the liquid starch. She used to starch all my dad’s and grandad’s shirts ready for work. Spray starch is definitely not the same.
Oh Sue, those mugs are gorgeous, didn’t they turn out well. That was a brilliant idea.
I hope you have a super trip to see your mum and I hope she has a very happy birthday.
x
I totally remember my Mom sprinkling the laundry with water and rolling it up, then spending HOURS ironing. We were also very crisp 😊. She didn’t put it in the fridge tho. She had a certain way of sprinkling the water with her hand – I can see it in my memory. Sigh. Miss her so much.
Happy Birthday to your lovely Mom!
Congrats on your beautiful new mugs Sue.
My mom did that too sometimes, a little shake of her wet hand. Funny how those little inspirations stay with us.
Happy travels and a HaPpY BiRtHDaY to your lovely Mom. Tea will be enjoyed all the more in your sweet mugs! Well done! Keep dreaming Susan while we enjoy the outcome!❤️🎂💐
Willard arrived just in time for a fierce thunderstorm we had last evening (great distraction!) All of the soups that I have been making this winter (1=2/week) have been WAITING for your mugs. I just know it. I cant decide which one to get. Maybe all 3?
You brought back the memory of my Mom using starch just the way you described. I have several bins of antique linens and will get my favorites out to starch as per your helpful info. Thanks! Love the mugs.
Your mugs are gorgeous. Have a wonderful visit with your Mom.
Ahhh…Susan you are a breath of fresh air…you always make the ordinary…extraordinary!! My little Marla (kitty) is always intrigued by the bird song each time I open your blog. Your artwork is my favorite…love the mugs….Thank you for what you do!
And thank you for being here, Renee! Hugs to Marla!
You were like sunshine to me this morning..Ty sweet friend.
The blahs were sneaking in and I had saved your Dear Willard for this Sunday morning.
Now no blahs but a happy and sunny heart.
Welcome Spring!
Safe travels and bushels of Love
Trace ‘
Over the moon love your mugs💕
Makes my day to hear that Trace! Have a good one!
Hi Susan,
Thanks for the starching tip. I’d never heard of liquid starch, but then my mother hated ironing and didn’t teach me proper ironing. She made up for it, though, by teaching me many other wonderful things.
Love the mugs!!!
Jules
I’m sure she did, like for instance, curiosity, which shows even in these 3 lines! Yay for moms!
I liked learning about starch, great tip – thanks! The cups are beautiful, will make a nice gift for me and someone special. Happy travels!
Susan,
I saw a photo of your “paper” mug and was so excited! I couldn’t wait for them to be available for purchase. I love that you are having them made out of real fine bone English China – delightful! I am also doing a slow drool over your beautiful wrapping paper. (Another site I will be visiting shortly) I just finished your book trilogy (Fairy Tale Girl, Isle of Dreams & A Fine Romance) loved them all. As I have not yet made it to England and it’s on my bucket list, I now have so many notes and ideas thanks to you. We visited Nantucket for the first time two years to celebrate my nephew’s wedding. Every time you describe a trip on the Ferry it takes me right back to one of the best vacations we’ve had. Safe travels to you & Joe and a very Happy Birthday to your Mom!
Cute coat and so perfect on you. I love the new mugs! So nice, so happy! Glad you are having these made and in England. Love quality. The use if liquid starch brought back so many memories for me of clothes in the refrigerator. We seemed to always have them. I like the idea if using them for linen jackets and dresser scraves too. You are so right, spray starch just doesn’t cut it.😀 My Mom used a 12 oz ( I think) coke bottle filled with water and a top that had lots of little holes in it, to sprinkle the clothes to sorta remoisten them to make it easier to iron them. Ironing can be so fun so rewarding. I remember always ironing sheets, pillow cases and loving the crispness and freshness of doing so. I will say though, being able to hang them on a line outside is totally awesome! Either takes time but so worth the effort! Thanks for the nice things you do….excited to hear more about your movie. 😁
I just have two questions today. I hate to bother you. I have always wondered how you got down your morning path in Winter, so it looks like it has been plowed or groomed where Joe is standing?
I have never put fruit in an angel food cake recipe before, so could a person put bits of strawberries or raspberries in it? And will this recipe work w/o the fruit?
Are you to Chicago yet? I heard they only got rain over the weekend.
Warm hugs as you may be down to one sweater soon! LOL
Margot
Cars drive over it, and mash it down before we get there. Once in a while they plow it, but not often. Yes, with or without the fruit, it would be delicious. Angel Food, what could go wrong!? Almost to LA right now. Just about to pack up and depart the train. Off to my mom’s this morning! Have a wonderful day Margot!
Thanks you too! And take a stroll down the beach for me!!!
Susan, I’m so excited about your mugs! I don’t like big thick mugs that are heavy, and not pretty. Yours sound wonderful. I’m also excited about the TV/Movie thing. Who will play you two?
Your stories lift my spirit and inspire me to look for the beauty in nature. I love your
new mugs! Would love to wake up in the morning and drink my coffee from your mug
(and my afternoon tea). Happy 87th Birthday to your mom! Have a wonderful visit!
Ooh how I long to get my hands on this collection of sweet mugs! I can’t wait until their release! They are charming!
I can’t tell you enough how much you inspire me to make my house a home!!!
Makes my day to hear it. Lots of joy in that luv-lee pursuit.
Hi Susan, for those who know me, it’s not a secret that ironing is one of my least favorite chores, BUT, I do love old linens and have been picking up peices when I wander into antique stores or yard sales so I’ll have to try your searching tips. Also so glad to see the mugs. Look out Emma B. Enjoy your trip!
That’s ‘starching’ tips not searching tips. Goofy auto-correct:)
LOL< Goofy is the right word!
Pure delight in reading your writings and enjoying your artwork❤️
I’m still enjoying honey crisp apples that You Introduced me to a couple autumns ago!
Safe trips from Janet in Texas
YUM, me too, Janet!
Sitting here cozy in northern Michigan, this sunny Sunday morning, drinking my coffee reading Willard and your blog. It is still very snowy and cold up here! I forgot how my Mom starched about everything. Thanks for bringing back that memory! Also seeing signs of spring up here, many of the bird are working their way back and daylight comes earlier and stays later. Thanks for your very enjoyable Willard and blogs with everyone! Have a beautiful Sunday! 😄
Hello you Michigan People, two in a row, one at home, and one on vacation!
I am sitting on the warm island (St. Simons in GA) reading the blog and enjoying your wonderful pictures. Love the new mugs and book I do not have. Will place an order when I return to colder Michigan!!!
Hi to Susan and Joe—your coat is so pretty and the colors look so soft and muted, similar to the pretty floral scarf you saw in the shop overseas. I am drawn to blue clothing, too, and my home is also mainly blue with cream, pale spa green and chocolate. I remember how the GFs loved your cute blue shoes when you were on the book tour! I plan to order one of your ever-so-sweet mugs for my sister as a remembrance of the “most beautiful afternoon tea party ever in the history of the world” last year in Prescott, AZ. Thanks again to Mary! When you give your Mom her gifts, the best one will be you by her side for sure!
Well said, dear Bev, about our luv-lee Tea Party. It was so wonderful. xoxo
Beautiful linens, cups and drawings. I’m very partial to old linens.
Susan, I think your mugs are delightful!!! Hard to pick a favorite….love the sweet lamb! Blessings to you from Kansas!
Train just went though Kansas, we wanted to get off!
Good~Morning Sweetest~Sue…. Home…In Your Mom’s Arms… Tears… Goosebumps… LOVE 🙂 I Have Been Loving Your Twitter~From~The~Twain~Tweets 🙂 Yay! Hey…Now You Are On California~Time…& The Oscars Are Tonight! I’ll Be With You In~Spirit Under The Hollywood~Sign!!! 😉 Hugzzzz To All #OurCaliforniaSweetHearts #FromMe! 🙂 I Love This Blog~Post & You! Thank~You! Oh & How I Love The New “Willard” Truly Delightful….My Wings~Are~Crossed To #WinTheMug Yay! All Three Are #Gorgeous!!! 🙂 Have The Most Wonderful~Magical~Enchanting~California~Adventure! xoxo #Poof! 🙂 P.S. I LOVED Starched~Things #Crisp&Clean 🙂 P.P.S. Congratz To Pamela!!!! 🙂
Hey Angie, Good Morning! Love that you’ve been along, would NOT be the same without you! xoxo Hope you win!!
Have a safe trip and I look forward to sipping my tea from one of your new mugs!!
Susan,
I am soooo excited about your beautiful new mugs! I love that they are big too, perfect for holding extra marshmallows in hot chocolate on cold winter days!
I’m in the process of reading Isle of Dreams, my daughter gave me two of your books for Christmas. I am so loving it!
Thank you for sharing your wonderful life with all of us. I have been a fan for years and years. God Bless you and Joe and safe travels!
Susan, Thank you for the starch lesson. I’ve used the spray starch and you are so right, it just doesn’t do the trick.
I will try this on my husband’s grandmothers table linens which she stitched herself <3.
I would love to win the lovely teacups for my granddaughters. They are 5 and 7 and love to go to the local Tea House with me and their mother for a "Cup of Tea". So beautiful they are, the cups and my grand's.
I would love to share one of your beautiful teacups with my Mom!
My dear Mother had ten children…..she deserves a beautiful cup of tea! Love you Susan and all of your beautiful artwork!
Yes she does!!!💞
Good Morning Susan! Found Willard in my mailbox this morning. Always so fun to read. I don’t think I ever used liquid starch on clothing but I use it a lot for art projects with K4. We love painting it on paper and then layering different colors of tissue paper down to have a stained glass effect. Have a wonderful trip. I love the nature cup so cute! Happy Day!