All the flowers of all the tomorrows are in the seeds of today . . . Hello darlings! MUSICA
Sometimes, and tell me if this happens to you too, I have so much on my mind it’s overwhelming and because of it nothing really gets done! And I don’t like it when nothing is getting done! So when that happens, I do what my mom did, I settle down and make a list. I get rid all those overlapping worries that are subconsciously zapping my energy and blotting out my joy button; I get everything out of my head and onto paper. 
and voila! It’s like my worries go away. See my list? It’s that out-of-focus thing on the right. Stuff I want to do, like have a yard sale, paint the garden fence, write a new book (all the ideas for which books are on the list), paint for the 2018 calendars, fix the gutters, grind up the tree stump, plan a summer party, design some kitty dishes, wash my kitchen cupboards, plan another ocean liner excursion, etc. etc. Joe and I got home last Sunday from a six-week trip to California. And here we were, suddenly 
home, with all the choices in the world in front of us, free as birds, to seed the lawn or not to seed the lawn, to make sun tea or to not make sun tea, but for some reason, I found myself fretting. Our trip was wonderful, but I came home worried (I think 2017 in general is making me mad) ~ every little thing was weighing me down, missing my dad and worries about my mom, but smaller things, like turning 70, and about our world which now looks like a reality TV show, the media playing every detail over and over, like it’s all just a game, an addictive Xbox game, that pits the Democrat team against the Republican team, American against American, Avatars versus Aliens, no 
holds barred, no rules, and all that matters is winning and who cares what and who gets hurt. They treat our delicate world like old cowboy movies, as if when the cameras go away the dead guy just gets back up. It’s like our leaders are seven years old, not to disparage seven-year-olds, who are way better than our media (in fact, please put them in charge). Plus, the laundry soap my mom used, the only one I’ve ever used, is no longer being carried by our supermarket! Why? I don’t know. 😡 Everywhere I turned something was disrupting my equilibrium, plus, I had to flop over and be 70 when I really didn’t want to, because what 12-going-on-24-year-old can fathom turning 70? 😜 ~ all out of my control . . . Then I remembered one of my favorite quotes . . 
Ahhhh, yes. And remembered I do too have control, so when I made my new list, I called it “SEEDS.” Because I need more flowers in my future, and I’m determined to have them. Oh yeah, you can’t keep a good girl down can you? NO. And then I took a huge deep breath, closed my eyes, and made my birthday wishes ~ I began to feed myself from the well of sweetness, and I gave myself some Red Letter Days, and you know what? I’m better. 
I turned off the TV and wrote in my diary, and took myself to England by reading this entire book! It’s always hard for me to read a book when I’m writing a book, so I don’t get to do it as often as I’d 
like. A whole book, what a gift. Five a.m., still dark but I got up in my quiet old house, the only sound was the creaking of my footsteps on the stairs, Jack padding down in front of me, tail stuck up in the air, the ticking clock on the mantle, my cup of tea, sometimes a popping fire, curled in my orange chair with my grandma’s knitted nap blanket and Jack next to me, and my book. Heaven. The book was a good one too. A mystery. I figured it out though. I KNEW what happened to that baby. 🤓Total satisfaction. And then I went out into the cool salty spring air and inspected the garden.🌷
It’s still very early here, no leaves on the trees yet, just a few of the earliest flowers are in 
bloom, a couple of daffodils and about 3″ of tulip stem are showing, but out behind the barn, we have a dewy meadow of tiny Spring Beauty (squill) … mostly volunteers because they naturalize themselves. I didn’t plant them, which means Mrs. Bowditch did. She owned our house from 1949 to 1980 and I still bless her green thumb every time I walk through our garden. Until last year these little flowers were hidden under a thicket of blackberry brambles, which we finally ripped out, and this magic meadow was waiting underneath ~ just a little sunshine, that’s all it needed.🌞
Still so early, the old cherry trees (that Mrs. Bowditch planted) are just budding now . . .
And clouds of yellow forsythia have just begun to open in our neighborhood . . . on this day we opened all the upstairs windows in our house for the first time this year, and let all the old winter air blow out, and all this forsythia-infused fresh island air come in . . . we dried our sheets on the line and slept like baby lambs. Red letter day.❤️
We brought this bunny home from California, pansies are in at the nursery, so my porch Peter got his basket filled . . . doing my part to making a prettier world . . .
And my little vases are blooming,
And the top of my stove is ready for Easter . . .
And because I’m a lucky April baby and I’ve spent this last week opening cards and thoughtful gifts, and getting phone calls from everyone I love . . . My brother Stephen (an excellent cook!) called to say Happy Birthday . . . and he gave me a recipe for his favorite new healthy veggie dip … He buys cashew butter at Trader Joe’s, then he browns two large onions slowly in a little mixture of olive oil and butter . . . he puts the caramelized onions in a blender with 3/4c. cashew butter, whirls everything smooth, and then spreads it on celery. Doesn’t it sound delicious? I can’t wait to try it! 
My big vases are filled with birthday flowers . . .
It smells like a flower store in this house!
And sweet smelling bulbs, with interested parties standing by, as always . . .
And there have been birthday toasts and cakes . . . this one is Tres Leche Cake, made by Margot, and the new winner for best Tres Leche Cake ever 👏 I’m waiting for her to send the recipe.💝 I’ll be sure to give it to you when I get it, it was heavenly!
There’s Margot, helping me make a wish! We are very serious with our wishes, they look a whole lot like prayers!
Another birthday cake, this one was made by Lowely, but seriosity of wish-making continues. 💚
And the pink moon continued to watch over us all . . .
My Red Letter Days all have one thing in common, our morning walk through the woods, out to the pond, the very best part of our day . . .
And we don’t walk just because we love it, but also because it clearly loves us back . . .
All these wonderful things that walking does for us, from boosting endorphins to burning fat! (So they say!) Plus there’s the sky, the clouds, the birds, the trees, the fresh air, the way it smells and feels, the wind in your hair . . .
Elizabeth and Mike came from California to visit us . . .
So we took them along . . . you can see, it’s still cool out there . . . and the beach roses look like stick piles!
Sea shell and sea glass hunting . . . Oooooo Elizabeth found a piece of blue glass! Very exciting!
Vineyard booty!
Easy to be happy when the seagulls are swooping and crying and you’re enjoying it all with your “little sister” BFF. . .💕
And when you get back, your “big sister” makes you a cup of tea in her brand new most enchanted bone china tea cups direct from England! 👏
Yes, the final samples of the new cups were waiting for us when we got back from California! They are in production now! For all of you that bought yours already (presale), yours will go out first, the moment they come in, which we are still hoping will be before Mother’s Day! If it looks like they won’t make it in time, we’ll make a little card you can print out and give to the person you may be gifting for Mother’s Day. Watch this space!💞
And these two cuties are finally back in stock, available everywhere, and we have them signed, here in our web store! Let’s see, what else. . . Well, there was a wonderful Blog post about falling in love with New England, so sweet ~ I put a link for it on Twitter, but not sure you saw it, just in cases I don’t give you enough to read! Also, I’m going to be speaking and 
signing books for a Mother’s Day Tea Party to benefit the South Shore Stars on May 11 from 2-4 pm, at the Indian Pond Country Club in Kingston, MA. There will be 
more information later, but if you’re nearby, pencil in the date and try to come!
I’m filling my creative cup, plotting a new book, whooshing my paintbrush in my water dish, and loving every moment, making time for the things that matter, like playing with Jack, planning our garden, cheering my days with wonderful old movies on TCM ~ and next, month, in May, I’m excited because there’s something new coming along called Filmstruck ~ it’s a partnership between TMC and Criterion Movies, their new channel is projected to be available on Roku in May, and as far as I’m concerned, along with Masterpiece Theater, it’s all I will probably ever need TV-wise! All the movies on my favorites list will be carried on this new channel, available at any time! I couldn’t ask for more!
From my diary . . .
And if you have also been having trouble with 2017 . . . read this ⬆️ because it’s a big help, our own stress relief is up to us, and really, compared to many places in this C R A Z Y world, we are lucky people, by the simple good fortune of being born where we are. Pray for the world, cook something wonderful, hug your neighbor, be an elf. Thank you for all of your Birthday wishes, you make my day. 💛 HAPPY EASTER! XOXO
Happy Happy Birthday!!! Enjoy 70; it only gets more interesting.
So glad to know that you are back at home and all is well. I missed you.
Happy to be home!
Happy Birthday Susan! May you enjoy so many more years of glee and happiness that all the teacups in the world cannot fathom it. I always adore your posts, they inspire and cheer me on! Hugs to you!
Hugs back to you Betty!
Funny how time slips away. Such a good choice of musica for me, too. I turned 66 the day after you turned 70! Spent Easter week-end finally organizing our photo albums. Although loved ones couldn’t come for the holiday, I felt so rich in life and love reliving and remembering as I worked on them. A red-letter time for sure. Thanks for the positive words and pictures. Hoppy Easter.
That’s amazing. I’ve been reorganizing my photos too. SO many lucky wonderful memories. Some photos so good, I have to mail them to the people in them! Hoppy Easter back to you Kathie!
Susan, wishing you a most blessed year ahead.You are making so many differences in so many of our lives. I send gratitude and love your way for your birthday and for the newness and hope of Spring and the Easter season. As others have suggested, a book about the loveliness of tea from your point of view would be such a gift to us all!!! Happy Birthday and thank you for all you do(on and off the list!)
I would LOVE to do a tea book! Must do!
Oh, please do, Susan! A tea book authored by you would be wonderful! We just got back to our old house from being in Florida for 2 1/2 months. There’s no place like home – it’s still “for sale”, but I’m in no hurry. I have to say one thing about what’s going on in this world………..don’t watch the news! That was advice from my Son, who is a police officer. There is so much more wonderful “stuff” to do!!! A belated Happy Birthday to you, dear Susan. xoxo
Thank you Ann . . . it’s still going on, my birthday month!
I hope “Pancakes” is still a possibility, but I’ll be happy with anything you choose 😉!
Laurie
=:3
It is for sure Laurie!
You so often say what I’m thinking, so we must be kindred spirits! You are so filled with a joy that radiates which is very healing, and yet you don’t completely gloss over the not so great parts of life. That wouldn’t be “real”!
So I’m filled with gratitude for you, and your blog, and being with my loving family, and tasting lots of different scrumptious foods. Tomorrow is another day and, whatever it is, this too shall pass!
Blessings to you, all your special people and all sentient beings…
Yes, if there is one thing BFF’s are with one another, it’s “real.” Must be, has to be, can’t live without it. xoxo Thank you dear Sally!
Happy Birthday🎂, Happy Easter✝️, Happy Everything!!!😊
😘
You are a very youthful 70-year old!
The ad in the May-June Victoria magazine or A Fine Romance is lovely!
Oh boy, I designed it so long ago, I forget what it looks like … haven’t seen it yet, so thank you for telling me! xoxo
Happy Birthday Sweet Sue. Hope all your wishes come true. !
Debbie R from Valencia
P.S. You look Fabulous 🎉🎂
Thank you Debbie!
Hello Susan and best birthday wishes along with Happy Easter. Here in Sisters, my Easter table had one daffodil, 50 % of what is blooming in my yard, ahhh cold spring!
I always steal the first daffodil too. Weighing, will it look better in the garden, or on my windowsill. Windowsill always wins!
A very uplifting post you’ve written here! So much of what you said reflects my feelings exactly. I turned 64 on the sixth of April, so many April babies on here, I’ve noticed. I look in the mirror or think of my age and wonder when did I get to be so old? Where has the time gone? I too have been extremely uneasy with all that is happening in the country and the world, it’s like with each new day you never know what your going to wake up to. Thankfully you put your concerns on paper and got them out of your head. I think we all may tend to listen to too much of the “bad news” on TV, sometimes that’s all they tell on the news, and we just need to turn it off. Read something positive, like one of your books, or watch a good old movie, work in the yard, bake something yummy, call an old friend. I think the change of seasons will help, with spring here, we can all be outside more in nature, working our gardens, hearing the birds, smelling the good earth. Thanks for such an inspiring post, hope you enjoyed a wonderful Easter. And 70 may be the start of another decade, but I think you look amazing (not my idea of 70 at all) and have have an incredible amount of energy, which I pray I have when I turn 70 in a few years. ❤❤❤
Thank you Barb! Very sweet and true and all the good things!
Happy birthday to you. I too was born on April 12! I turned 69 and I ask where did the 60’s go!? I must say my brain won’t shut off either. I googled Ding Dong School and wouldn’t you know there were some old ones and I watched them all. She had a doll on there I still have. The need for decency and someone talking to you and including you have long been gone. I feel so desperate when news is on and got in my book cupboard and chose several I WILL NOW READ INSTEAD OF WATCHNG NEWS. Looking forward to my mug and enjoy my tea with a book on our lanai. Florida is very hot already… make enjoying Joe your number one priority, I’m savoring my husband of 51 years too. Enjoy being home that’s the best place to be…. happy spring!!!!!
I will do that. Just took the guy some tea with lemons and oranges and soon we go for a walk, and that’s what I call a Red Letter Day! Happy Spring!
Susan, Happy Easter to you. We are greening up here with redbud and dogwood trees blooming. Our one Azalea is huge and beautiful. Daffys are done and lilacs have taken their place. But, honestly, I can not decide whether I love them quite as much as I love and am drawn to your renditions of nature’s bounty! Your art has made my heart leap for dozens of years. I will be 73 this year. Getting old is interesting to say the least! You have my sympathies and congrats on the milestone. 💛💚💙💜❤️🎂🎉 gmapat
Thank you Gmapat! You are a doll!
I can’t listen to the news at all any longer. to hear foolishness bantered around as wisdom with every news reporter giving his or her opinion on what is happening and then have it argued and rehashed ad-nauseum is the worst. and I don’t watch because there’s not one thing I can do and it only upsets my balance, which is precarious at best at times. I curl into my own corner of the world, pray for those who live outside it, serve where I can and do what I can that within my ability to help. we have no cable coming in and it is the best decision we ever made. we have Netflix and I have a firestick and can get the series I love on tv or watch movies. so much better than all that bickering and the constant show of temper tantrums and I guess if someone is going to attack us, I will likely be the first to know if it is here. it just undoes me anymore watching all that stuff on tv. and yeah…7-year-olds could likely do better. I always thought they should make a mother president…one without agendas and political ties and whose hands are not elbow-deep in so many pockets…one with an altruistic heart who would make all the fussers and aggressors sit at a table, like I used to have my kids do, and say nice things about each other until those little people weren’t angry any longer and were laughing and kind. I adore Kate Morton. Happy Easter. Welcome home and happy spring discoveries.
What is a firestick??? That sounds interesting! I love your dream… a mother for president, without agendas etc. You would be great! xoxo
I understand the overwhelming feeling this time of year – so much on my to-do list. I found a new series on Netflix appropriately called Escape to the Country – home buyers in Great Britain looking for country homes. The scenery is beautiful and a nice escape from all the negative news in the world. Watching Grace & Frankie is also good comic relief. Happy Belated Birthday, Susan! Find the beauty in each day. We are anxiously waiting for the beautiful hummingbirds to return to our area – should be anytime soon!
Watching it this very moment! In Cornwall right now! Watched Grace & Frankie last night. Ha ha! Right there with you!
Beautiful post as always. So glad you are embracing what possibilities and happiness your future may hold. You enrich the lives of so many with your words and art, and are a true blessing to us all. I, too, have just become very frightened by what is going on, not just in our country, but across the world. I know there has always been turmoil, but now we have it available in full color around the clock, rather than just hearing the main news events a week or 2 later – I think it increases our stress levels dramatically. Anyway, enjoy the rest of 2017 – I hope you have many wonderful projects and trips and times of enjoying your friends and family – we can all just keep praying and staying strong – by each of us improving our own little corner of the world, hopefully we can improve the bigger pieces as well. Happy Birthday, and many more! (So excited about the prospect of kitty dishes – waiting with excitement for my cups)
It is the world turmoil that concerns me too Sherrill. This undermining of the truth by those who want to see our democracies fail. Our allies and friends, France, Germany, and dear England are all under the same assault as ourselves. As long as we know it’s happening, there are things we can do, but we have to believe it’s happening first. I’m glad and unafraid to be a faceted person, would not like to be a chicken little, nor a rose-colored glasses type. Reality is only bearable with the caveat that, “Reality is something we rise above.” Also, “Pray to God but keep rowing toward shore.” Yeah! And every corner matters. xoxo
Happy Birthday, Susan!! Hope your birthday was as magical as you are. Filmstruck sounds like a classic movie lovers dream! I can’t wait for that!
Me either Shell, it’s going to be a good one!
Here’s a birthday thought for you, Susan. Keep in mind that Ilene Beckerman, author of LOVE, LOSS, AND WHAT I WORE, didn’t begin her writing career until she was 60. When she was married to Al Beckerman, had six children in seven years, but when her second son David died at 18 months, she and Al drifted apart and later divorced. An excellent quote from Ilene: “I always tell my daughters I’m not done yet. I don’t have all the answers, I make really bad mistakes. I think of Al’s mother, and she was done at 60. She wasn’t going to have any firsts in her life anymore.” I know I’m not finished at 68, and you certainly aren’t finished at 70.
No, I am not! LOL, love that Linda!
Worried too most of these days Susan. But I am lucky enough to have little grands nearby tand although it does increase the worry on one level it does bring many happy smiles nd laughter. And warmer weather too!
A great blessing…happy little hearts!
So glad to read your positive uplifting post! I thought of you on April 12 and prayed you were having an absolutely wonderful, celebratory birthday. Did you put your ring on a candle on your birthday cakes before you made your wishes? Margot and Lowly were wishing so intensely with you, too. Your fabulous girlfriends are friends of the heart. Your heart is reflected in all your posts very deeply. Wouldn’t it be a better world if more positive thoughts, acts of kindness and uplifting words were said and done by each of us~particularly those who have the platform of influence such as our leaders and the media? I remember my mother saying “if change is to be, it starts with me.” Susan you are a catalyst for that change and thank you for sharing how your feeling, caring for your soul because it helps me and from reading the responses it helps us all. You are a joy and a delight! Happy Easter and have a blessed spring. Hugs xoxo
The very same to you Diane, love your sweet words, thank you!💐
Dear Susan,
Thank you for your post and Happy Easter! Happy Birthday, too! I’m so glad you were born because you lift everyone’s spirits with your wisdom, wit, and many talents. You bring beauty into so many lives like mine. I am on my fourth “Days from the Heart of the Home” engagement calendars. I use it as a diary/journal. I am a busy person – a teacher – but I love to write down my impressions about things when I can and the “Days” books give me just enough space to record my thoughts. I have other journals that I’ve used through the years but I just love the “Days” calendars the most. I add photos and quotes that mean something to me. You are an inspiration and when things seem off for me, I look at the beautiful things I have around me including the many things I have collected that you made and shared. Here is a passage from the Bible that helps me remember that I have the power to “transform” my thinking and my focus. It is from Romans 12:2 “Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Bless you and all that you give to the world to make it a more beautiful place for all of us.
Lots of love, Melissa from Richmond, VA
Perfect, especially for a teacher, words that say Think. Thank you for what you do Melissa! xoxo
When my doctor mentions my age(which is a couple shy from yours) I just tell him. “One year closer to Heaven.” Because I know what my future holds and I am happy. I am quite content with our president and beautiful first lady and feel safer than I have for decades. I don’t depend on them to make me happy, though, That is not my source of happiness. We are having a glorious Spring in Indiana and celebrated Easter today with joy. Happy Birthday, Susan and may you find the peace you are looking for.
One walk through the garden this morning and all is well. Have you read Lilac Girls, Kate? It’s a beautiful book, filled with history, hope and love.❤️
Welcome Home you have been missed and Happy Birthday ! and a Happy Easter ! My grandmother who lived to be 102 always told me age is just a number. She enjoyed her life to her last breath. Also you had me at “yard sale”. Oh how I wish for a ferry ride! I hope to get the East coast one day!
Love your grandmother! xoxo
Thought provoking post. Yes 12 joing on 24, I so get it. However 60 now seems quite young and with it, the closer I get to it. I think of you as in your 30’s not 70. I think our bodies may age but we are the same inside as we were in our 20’s weird concept. Jack is as cute as ever. Looks like you are making some great choices to help through the difficult times. The island looks lovely. Enjoy.
Your weird concept is totally what I think too! Nothing changes . . . xoxo
Hi Susan~~~
I’m late and so sorry about that…. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!! I hope that it was a very good one. Turning 70 seems to be tramatic. Seems all my girlfriends saw it that way as well. Seventy is just plain “old”. I didn’t like that feeling at all. Gave it a couple weeks and the feeling went away. It still sounds old, but I don’t get depressed by it any longer. Turning 71 was no big deal this year. I think basically, it was because 70 was a new decade.
I’m still waiting for the warmth of Spring to get here. With the wind blowing nearly everyday, it keeps the temps down. But, the leaves on the trees are coming on, grass is growing and spring flowers are blooming. What more can you ask for 🙂
xoxox
Carol M
I’m already over it. Not so much 70 as time. “Time heals all things, except for one thing: Time.” Ah yes! Thank you Carol!
Thanks for the blog today! Just what I needed! I too turn 70 this Wednsday and have been dreading it for months, just seems so old! My girlfriends say its not a big deal and I am sure come Wednesday I will say “I don’t feel any different from You 69! But its just that number. I too have been u settled and what is happening in our country just makes it worse, so i try to tune the news out and move on. Spring is here and that does make me smile, walking and quilting are my therapies and I am trying to do those things! Hooe your day was fabulous, it looks like it was. Flowers are so beautiful, I can almost smell the roses.
Keep making lists and you will be fine.
Thanks and Happy Birthday! Karen Carpenter from MI
Happy Birthday dear Karen!🎵 Perhaps a bit of a pause for reflection, for blessings counting, but then, onward and upward!💞
Happy Birthday to you. Celebrating every year and all your creativity that has brought joy andcomfort to so many! You make 70 look wonderful. May you be blessed with health and happiness always.
Thank you Karen! I feel so lucky!
HI Susan,
Thank you for your natural born rose colored glasses! And about your 70th birthday, my precious Dad used to say “Be thankful for all birthdays as it is a privilege not given to all”.
I lost him 8 years ago and my Mom just passed away last weekend. So I have been feeling rather ‘off’ myself but trying to remember to count my blessings. I had to stop listening to the news a few months ago because it was so awful. It is a beautiful time of the year here in Ga and I am planting pretty flowers too which helps!
Wishing you the best and Happy Easter! 🐣🐣🐣
The garden is a natural prayer and it’s very nature is hope! Healing spring days to you Kim, sending love. xoxo
A belated Happy Birthday! Turning 70 is great. I hit 80 by buying a new, red car.
I always enjoy your blogs. The political world is always controversial. We have to remember that God is in charge. Blessing to you, Joe and Jack!
I think perhaps a new red car would be just the ticket! xoxo
I was just thinking it was about time for your blog and here it is…..a lovely Easter gift for us all. This is my first Easter without my mom and I was feeling a bit down myself so you were there just in time to cheer me up! I also noted on your desk pad, (that I just got from Amazon), the note of Gladys Tabor’s birthday…looked her up and she is such a kindred spirit to yours. I intend on getting a couple of her books. Happy birthday to you ….and many more! I am looking forward to getting the mugs I pre-ordered.
She helped me when I first moved from California to the Island, her words helped me heal and see my new life through her lovely eyes. Mugs are in production now! SO excited!
Belated Birthday Wishes Susan and Happy Easter to you and Joe. Your post was so good to read on this day of rest and renewal. Your posts always provide thought provoking and encouraging words and help me and so many girlfriends to “brush themselves off, pick themselves up and start all over again”. youtube.com/watch?v=AGUsRGuZb6k
Just wanted to share too that my mom turns 90 tomorrow and as we sat in the sun on the porch this afternoon reminiscing and just being; I find it hard to fathom everything she has lived through, seen, experienced. I look forward to sharing your “seeds quote” with her tomorrow. I think you will remember me sharing with you our “lambcake palooza” we had for her 85th birthday. Thanks again for sharing of yourself, looking forward to hearing about your new endeavors.
Rest, and renewal, a key to life. Happy Birthday to your mom. xoxo
My Dear, you have inspired me to “get it together”!!! I think in addition to the world and national news, I’ve just been feeling sorry for myself. Tom is now totally ready to go, go, go, and I was grieving because my chassis won’t go!!! Soooo, I spent much of today making plans for another trip to Jolly Olde. I’m using your last trip as a guide. I’m hooked up with some pain management docs and techs. I will not give up the fight! Gotta get back to my beloved Eng-ga-land!! Been lots of places, but this one has my heart. Clavicle braces, back braces, Stem units, home traction kits….Yea Medicare!!! Let’s keep it!
Our last 2 trips of one month each were in the Fall. I want to go in Spring, as I did on my first in 1977. Never forget that smell. Maybe that’s the lure of Maine. When I first went there, I said, “England, don’t you smell it?” Anyway, Tom is raring to go, and we’re aiming for Spring, 2018. We’d planned it for this Spring, but we had repair work to see to. Malmesbury is first night. We now fly Aer Lingus through Boston to Dublin to Bristol. So much easier that Heathrow, and lots nicer and cheaper.
So, thank you, Dear Susan, for blasting me off the Pity Pot, and working toward the future. And….I’m looking forward to my 72nd Birthday!! Glad to be here.
Hope you don’t have chocolate overload today!! Mucho Love,
Your very grateful girlfriend,
Debbie in Tampa…..for 4 more weeks
You can’t keep a good girl down! Always need to have something on the calendar (besides dentist appointments)! As always, love your spirit Debbie!
Hi Susan,
I decided over ten years ago to stop watching or listening to the news. It caused me so much stress and added nothing positive to my life. I told my husband, who loves the news, that if there was anything I really need to know, he can tell me. I find that I’m not uninformed, because people will tell you what’s going on—whether you want to know or not. My life became measurably more peaceful. In fact, we don’t even have broadcast TV in our house, only Netflix. Life is too precious and important to spend it fretting about politics or what’s going on in some foreign country that will never affect me unless I watch the news.
Happy Birthday! These big numbers do give one pause, don’t they?
Just a pause, and then, onward and upward. xoxo
Happy Birthday, dear Susan! And welcome home! I can’t tell you how much I RELATED to your latest blog. I am an “April Baby” like you, and although I didn’t quite hit a “milestone” this year, I did turn 49 on April 9. Last of the 40s. Only 50+ ahead of me now. Kind of hit me hard and hadn’t expected it to. I, too, still feel 25ish (probably act 25ish, haha) and work hard to keep myself looking 30-something 😉 I love my long walks (and hikes, as you know; I’m the Mt. Borah Lady!) that provide peaceful, mindful moments where it’s just me and my thoughts. Keeps me grounded and my problems don’t seem quite like problems when I return. In Boise, the grass is now dark green, the pear and crab apple trees are heavy with blossoms, and my magnolia bush is popping with deep magenta “cups” that catch the spring rain that we’ve been getting. We have a new rose bush (The Apricot Drift Rose; a ground cover rose bush) to plant (not sure where it’s going!) and a miscellaneous assortment of other perennials. But it’s not quite time to consider planting them or sewing seeds in the garden (still a bit of snow on Bogus Basin in the Boise Mtns.). Usually, we start planting in mid-May. We are on the downhill stride to the last 7 weeks of school (I teach first grade and my younger daughter is in 9th grade). Summer trips and camping weekends planned. Check. Preparing for our Bordeaux, France trip in September, including a class in basic French words and phrases. Check. When schedules get overwhelming for me, I break them down into “chunks.” I’ve always been detail-oriented, probably to a fault. But that fault helps me see the mini-goals that must be reached to arrive at the end result. And, while I’m doing that, I pet the kitties. They love it when I’m planning! Haha! Enjoy your birthday month (the older I get, the longer I celebrate my birthday). <3
Oh yes, Samantha, the Mt. Borah Lady! Oh, don’t worry, you will never grow old! Look at you. I can tell you, the fifties, as my mom told me, are truly wonderful!!! They really are. All power and bravery! (and from then on, P&B is what it is.) How perfect for a first grade teacher. They are so lucky to have you! Thank you for the lovely tour of spring in Boise. The world is a better place with you and your positive spirit in it! xoxo
Happy Easter Susan !! And a happy belated birthday. Just wanted to tell you a quick story involving Gladys Taber. I have never read a book by her, but knew of her through you. Wednesday I was at a local thrift store, and as usual head straight to the books first !! After a few minutes I spot Gladys Tabers My Own Cape Cod. So I snatched it up , excited that I will finally get to read one of her books. I got home and started looking at it and some newspaper clippings fell out. One was a copy of her obituary from 1980. The other was her obituary from my own town newspaper !! It seems her husband Frank grew up in this town ( Grand Ledge , Michigan). I don’t know their story or how they met or ended up where they did, but now I’m looking forward to investigating!! Haha. I thought it was pretty cool and wanted to tell you !!
That’s so great!!! Things that fall out of old books, how I love them! I put things in my books so someday other people will find them! What a find Linda! Hope you enjoy the book, it’s a good one!
Aren’t you just the best, to gift us all with your birthday scenes and thoughts? I am just 2 years behind you in birthdays, but 70 does just seem weird. Funny, I just read The Lake House too and really enjoyed the gradual unfoldment of the story, and the thoughts of the characters, farther and farther back in time.
Our spring is going slowly here in the high desert of Oregon, but ‘the Greening’ is happening at last. Very exciting after our amazing, super deep snowy winter (think collapsing buildings!). Every bud and green thing is cherished and exclaimed over. Like others have mentioned, I have back off from reading so much news — I now read it only on my phone — I call it ‘tiny news’ because somehow it doesn’t seem so bad when it is that small.
And I am starting work with a fitness/exercise coach, to keep these bones strong. Isn’t spring magic? And it brings Susan’s birthday too. What a wonderful world. Thanks, as always, for sharing your sweet world with us all. And making mugs too. Whew — aren’t we lucky?! Big birthday hugs from across the continent.
It’s true, “cherish” is the perfect word for how we feel about spring after a long cold winter! LOL, brilliant on the “tiny news!” Hugs back to you, here’s to more earthsongs for us all!
Happy birthday, and thanks for a lovely blog post! I really enjoy reading your blog — a few weeks ago I made the marmalade cake and it was delicious.
Good, that’s especially nice coming from a Saralee! xoxo
Dear friend, I say dear, for you are, and friend because I feel that you are that also. I was delighted when I saw your name in my inbox. “Oh goody goody!!! Little did I know that the encouragement I so very much needed would be found in your opening quote. I was having a mopey evening, topped with a little dose of self pity. For what? If I only knew. I know in part it is due to the gradual emptying of my nest. I also have so many ideas and dreams swirling around in my head coupled with the fear of growing older and not fulfilling them. Then you come along with the best quote and the simple suggestion… WRITE A LIST! I actually do have a list. I have goals, and plans on how to achieve them. In a way you reminded me to look at them again and maybe add a few more. You are an inspiration in many ways. I wonder if you realize this. I absolutely LOVE that as you turn 70 there is still so much that you want to accomplish, and I know you will. We, your girlfriends will be the beneficiaries of your writing and you will once again delight us and share the magic of your life with us. What a gift! Thank you! Well, I feel better now. I’m ready to refocus on sowing some seeds, thanks to you!
I can only say I love you Debbie. You are wonderful. You go girl. xoxoxoxoxo
Happy April Birthday Susan! A delightful month to be born……all the new life every where we look. I celebrated 70 in September, and leading up to the big event..experienced a bit of “How on earth did I get here so quickly”! It is a sobering thought for a moment……we are no longer “middle aged”….much more time behind us than in front of us. Having said that….it has so far been a lovely transition, filled with gratitude for my full rich life and choosing just how I want these next years to manifest. Plus I want my husband to be here by my side for as long as possible, so I certainly can’t let him grow older without me along for the ride :). He is 7 years older than me and recently, when thinking about purchasing a new car, he commented that it would most likely be his last. With that, we both laughed and agreed we should make it one heck of a special car!
Losing your precious Dad, while on the “road” and having to keep pushing on and moving through planned events had to have been painfully difficult for you. Now that you are home with time to think and pause……walking through the grief of your loss, and the worry about your Mom, so far from you, is just simply natural. What a great example of healthy self care you are……making plans for the future to look forward to, being content with small day to day pleasures, along with remembering those most precious to you. Just think about how many of us felt encouraged and supported by this heartfelt post. Thank you Susan!
I think we might buy a convertible, like a Mini Cooper or a Fiat! Talk about healthy self care! We rented one and drove it around the island for a day a couple of years ago and just LOVED it. Thank you dear Helen, very nice to hear from you. xoxo
I’m currently driving my second convertible (Chrysler 200) and it’s the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. At first I thought it was silly living here in Colorado, but I’ve found myself with the top down at least one day, 8 out of 12 months a year! Even a trip to the grocery store feels special in a convertible. DO IT!!
They are fun. You get such a different perspective!
Hi Sue,
I LOVE a girl who loves cake too! May all your special birthday wishes come true.
Love,
Melin
xoxo
Thank you Melin!! Here’s to cake!
Susan, Sweet Susan. You will never act old. I cannot imagine you ever being old. Your spirit shines through you, your eyes see so many little things that we would probably miss, and your hands write and paint so that we can share in your forever creative spirit. Thank you. So glad you have made yourself and new list of Seeds. Continue to refresh yourself and we are here for you, anytime you need to vent.
Sending you much love and lots of bunny hugs on this glorious Easter Evening.
Shirley Burt from Aledo, Texas
I’ve already decided to be just like my dad! You are my darling people, bunny hugs, that’s what friends are for! xoxo
Being like your Dad is just the way to be. A very good plan indeed. Hope your spirits are perkier today.
Bunny hugs to you and know that there are NO LImits to my Bunny hugs, Take as many as you want.
Oh way perkier! I’m oiling my wooden kitchen table and counter tops . . . I’m in the groove now! 🐰
Fabulous long awaited post. Wonderful and warming. Your new thin lipped bone china cups are so great. Everything tastes best in bone china as my grams always said. Spring has found you is see on the Island. I have requested the book, The Lake House from the library as it’s set in Cornwall. Cornwall is the top billing of my travel to in future list. Sweet Jack with his ponytail holder in his sweet kitty lips stole me heart.
Hope Easter was cozy, yummy and filled with many memories.
Debra
I’m drinking from one right now, and it does. It also holds the heat. Quite delightful! Sweet kitty lips is just right, thank you Debra!
Gosh, Susan, I am so with you. I had high hopes for 2017 being OVER the crappy stuff in the world, but … The wheels started falling off my hopes with getting rear ended at a red light mid January (the 13th, a Friday the 13th, in the rain, by some chick snap chatting!!!!!!!!!!). I was so upset I didn’t realize that I’d broken my leg with a hairline fracture for a week. By then my precious, darling MIL had a stroke, died 10 days later, and I couldn’t attend the funeral because I was in agony and had PTSD of getting in the car again, ever. We’re building a new house, selling our current house, had a buyer in late February, he pooped out on the last day possible, had two new offers the next morning and have FINALLY closed on this house. But our new build isn’t ready. We’re retiring, moving to Sun City Texas where I can get around in a golf cart and we’re building the sun room into my studio. The outside world is SO BAD I just want to move into my studio and paint without TV or radio or newspaper and just the sound of twittering birds at the feeders or floophing their feathers in the tinkling fountain next to bamboo wind chimes. And sweet little Toby, my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is constantly on the alert for my fear and anxiety (what a natural therapy dog!!!) Go away world!
Oh Celia, it’s so bad, it made me laugh! When it rains it pours. “Chick Snap Chatting” like our Girlfriend Deborah O’Brien just wrote this morning on Twitter, “What did we ever do before technology came along to irritate us?” ~ Best thing is you have all the tools: “I just want to move into my studio and paint without TV or radio or newspaper and just the sound of twittering birds at the feeders or floophing their feathers in the tinkling fountain next to bamboo wind chimes.” “Floophing” their feathers. Consider that word stolen! Keep that sense of humor, and get that leg well soon. Golf carts are fun. You are wonderful!
Happy, happy 70th Birthday Susan! And Happy Easter as well. I just love reading your beautiful blog posts. I’m sorry you are feeling “out of sorts”. It made me happy to read your very own blackberry brambles were lifted from your shoulders and those beautiful blue flowers replaced them with happy thoughts. For some reason those decade birthdays have always bothered me too. But as I say ” it beats the alternative”. Enjoy your 70th year, as always I will look forward to seeing and reading your beautiful posts. Thank you for always making me smile.
Lovely way to say it Martha! xoxo
Thank you for the lovely post. Just what I needed. And happy birthday. I will be 60 this summer and in my head I still feel 40, so I know what you mean. Age is a feeling. We just moved to San Diego to live with my sister. I am officially retired. I had to after cancer changed my life. It’s beautiful here, but I miss spring already. I hope once my things arrive I can settle in to this new life.
Me too Charlotte. I’m sure you will, San Diego has some morning water views that can’t be beat. xoxoxoxoxoxo
Dear Susan:
A belated happy birthday to you and Easter greetings from Iowa! Sounds like you had a marvelous trip to California. Your words are right on and resonate with so many of your adoring fans, myself included. You are so honest and genuine and know what’s really important in life. It takes courage to put yourself out there not knowing how you’ll be received.
You say that it took you a long time to grow up. I say there’s nothing wrong with that. We SB fans love your normalcy, optimism, child-like excitement about life, and your kindness and generosity of spirit! Keep it coming! We are all worried about the state of the world, overwhelmed, dismayed about the unbelievable cruelty and injusice being shown towards the current object(s) of derision. You have a gift Susan Branch, actually many!
Like you, I am a former Californian, turning 70 in July, and like you wrote, experiencing trepidation about what that means. Hell, it’s just a number. I made a quick trip to the Bay Area, where I lived since I left So. Cal. at 22, ( but left in 2013 for Iowa) to visit relatives and friends. What a boost that was! Family, friends, children, grand children, and fur babies are the best-est! Again, thank you for sharing yourself with all of us. All the best to you, Joe, and Jack!
Loved every word Pam, thank you so much!
P.S. I was telling my girls, Anna and Emily (16) that you had turned 70. They were gasping in shock. They were sure you were my age (56). You and your life does not strike them as someone who is 70. “Are you SURE she’s 70??” One more thank you… Anna has really taken off on her art. You and your books were an inspiration! So, thanks!
That’s how I felt when I was their age, that there was a difference between old people and young people. Now I know different! Love to you, and Anna and Emily . . . xoxo
Great posting Susan. Yes, it is a scary time. Yes, we are so so lucky. And yes it is up to each of us to LOVE and to create beauty in our daily lives.
We are in LA on our way home from our wonderful 10 weeks spent in Carpinteria. Sad to leave my beautiful west coast, but looking forward to our girl kittys and the bulbs coming up back in Vermont. I am 77 and feel young most of the time in spite of what the calendar tells me.
Ten weeks in Carpenteria, what fun! You are going to LOVE Vermont right now…doubling your pleasure with two springtimes! Welcome Home!
Happy Birthday, dear Susan! Thank you for all the joy you bring to us girlfriends. A Native American Proverb:
Give thanks to unknown blessings already on their way
ADORE that. Reading Native American quotes and words so filled with wisdom is such a wonderful thing to do! xoxo
Happy-a-bit-belated-Birthday Susan! Wish I had your home address so that I could send a paper card. I ditto the messages I read before so won’t repeat, but simply say “thank you.” And I’m forwarding your blog to my 3 sisters hoping to cheer their day. Take gentle care~Julia
Thank you Julia, hello to the sisters! xoxo
Always so good to hear about what you’re doing, Susan. We lost our mom very recently, and what with traveling back and forth and paperwork and general sadness, I find I’ve become somebody who eats out or warms up frozen meals every single night. Not satisfactory!! Suddenly, I long to roast a chicken and make some cranberry sauce. I think this is a good sign!
A VERY good sign. Blessings on you and yours Anne!
Happy Birthday Susan! You don’t know me, but I love your posts, your positve words and outlook. I am grateful for your presence in my world 💚 Jeanne
Thank you so much Jeanne! Happy to meet you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Susan my friend,
It’s Easter Sunday night. First chance I’d had to open my emails all day, but my reward was your blog. So many of your thoughts hit home with me. Happy belated birthday! Looks like you had pretty great cakes and beautiful flowers. I turned 67 in March; the day was a quiet, sweet one, starting earlier in the week with the wonderful surprise of a b-day card from my overseas son that he’d sent 3 weeks ahead of time, birthday calls from our other “kids” (18, 30 & 31), a lovely necklace from a dear neighbor-BFF, and sweet remembrances from my dear hubby. It’s frustrating to inhabit a body that’s slowly becoming more titanium than joint, with more little “fixes” in the future, and I do sometimes get kinda down in the dumps. I mean, I’m still 39 in my soul, it’s just the rest of me that’s refusing to cooperate. But hey, I’m still walking around, and has been said here already, it’s way better than the alternative. I don’t read much what passes for news now, if it’s true (and that’s open to question a lot these days), it’s almost always guaranteed to gloom up my day. And with my son posted overseas (I’m not supposed to mention locations), I just can’t go looking for another stress-inducing article about where he is. It has been a long few months of daily, below-the-surface-of-things-but-unremitting worry. I should own stock in Clairol. But his departure date is coming up, so I just have to hang on for a bit longer (thank goodness the Good Lord’s Ears are big enough to listen to my prayers which alternate between pleading and direct instructions, and His heart is big enough to hold the tears formed by my fears). Susan, your blogs, with art and musings and quotes and stories are much needed bright spots in my days–restful, thought-provoking, and funny and beautiful. I too make lists, and boy does it feel good to cross those finished items off! I’m taking care of my health, doing aqua exercise twice a week at the Y, walking and loving my little doggie, and I also found the App “Calm” and put it on my cell–it’s pretty good. So glad you got to read a book! Such a wonderful way to keep your brain cells active and, when the writing’s really good, to marvel at the beauty of the English language. And yippee! A new book from you! However long it takes, whatever from it takes, I know I will love it. Ok, that’s it for now. I’ve blabbed on and on again. I always run away with my keyboard when I start a reply to one of your blogs. Welcome home from your CA trip, happy belated birthday, and have a ball digging and planting and creating in your garden! Best, Rosemary
It’s all kindred spirits isn’t it Rosemary? Thank you!! xoxo
sending good thoughts and prayers your way Rosemary, I can remember my husband’s last deployment before he retired from the Navy, it was a nightmare and one I won’t be forgetting, just take it one day at a time, hold good thoughts and just trust that everything is going to be all right and he will be home before too much longer. I hope and pray he comes home soon, and I will add my prayers to yours. good luck and lots of love…. he will be okay, wait and see. from one retired navy wife to a military mom… God bless and keep you!!! hugs…. 🙂
Many heart-felt thanks for the prayers and blessings and hugs. The most annoying part of this time is the bit about crying-for-no-specific-reason, at the drop of a hat, which I’ve read happens to family members. But I tell myself it’s not like WWII, or even Vietnam; at least we can email and text, and he gets to call once a week so I can hear his voice. So I thank the Good Lord for these things. 15 days to go–not that I’m counting or anything… Thanks again.
We’re counting with you. 💞
he’ll be home before you know it, and I understand that crying for no reason, happened enough to me, I must have cried a river on that deployment, and when he got home all I could was cry another river and somehow thank God for bringing him home!!! you are doing fine, and once he is home hug him tight and cry another river… of joy!!! 🙂
Belated Birthday wishes & Happy Easter Susan 🐇!
One thing for certain is everything on this earth 🌏 is temporary…… the good -the bad —the ugly …..so this too shall pass .
Keep doing your beautiful art work-your very sweet story telling — to keep all your wonder & inspiring us all 👏👏👏👏!
💐Penny
So true! Nothing is forever! Walked around my backyard this morning, looking at the blooming things in my 1849 neighborhood, the old trees blooming, the forsythia like a yellow cloud, listening to the birds, and loved the feeling of quiet peacefulness and the spirits of the people that lived here before us, and thought, there is a foreverness of the heart.
It’s the year of turning 70….. I turned 70 in March,my husband’s 70th Birthday is in June. I still have many friends from High School——-we have all turned 70.It’s not your mother’s 70……………We are the Baby Boomers.We love music & family.Me—it’s playing Ricky Nelson,all the time…baking,quilting,reading your blogs…I have so much to do.So many more quilts to hand quilt & give to grandkids.
Susan–you have made so many people happy with your paintings,cookbooks and the story of your life etc.Embrace 70…….This is the time of your life..
Going to make a cup of tea…….Talk soon…Happy Birthday
Thank you Linda, I will do that!
Happy belated birthday from one one April baby to another. It seems to me that you were a bit down when you returned from your Scotland trip too. Maybe you just played too hard and need a little rest. Hugs Girlfriend.
It’s like something ends and something new is trying to be born. Almost like having a creative block. Where you fret because you can’t get that yearning thing out into the world, and you have to wait because you don’t quite know what it is yet. I call that time “the foundation for the creation” ~ this isn’t the first time, and it won’t be the last!
Happy birthday to a wonderful inspiring author, artiste, and friend!
Sweet dreams and hope you plant many seeds of good thoughts in this new year!
💖 Ruth (The Inklings from Ohio)
I will do my very best, thank you dear Ruth. xoxo
There is a lot going on in this world.. and I go back to this scripture — He will take care of us and protect us…
Matthew 6:25-27
25.Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26.Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns — and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27.Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his lifespan?…
He cares for the birds of the air.. surely He watches over us..
Happy Birthday Susan!!! glad you had a good trip!
I love those words and believe every one of them ~ thank you Sunday, just beautiful. But history also shows us that God gave man choices, goodness being one of them. I yearn for it. Innocence starves to death in our world every single day. And while I’m alive, I will be of the army of God’s children who says, no.
Thank you for a lovely blog. Your words and drawings are so nice and comforting. We need happiness every day in many ways. You share your happiness and I appreciate your warm spirit. Happy Birthday to a youngthful sprite. Smiles
Thank you Nancy!
I turned 70 right along with you, Susan on 4-4! I, however did not figure out what happened to that baby in Kate Morton’s, The Lake House. I must say that I loved the thrill and surprise
when the mystery was solved. Happy Birthday and remember spring is the time to get those “seeds” of tomorrow gathered and in the ground. Be patient and kind to yourself!
Happy Birthday Suzanne!
Dear Susan, You are a baby! This 89 year old woman is with you in many way. I always write down after a dramatic event in my life. But some are so poignant, our recent one being the loss of our dog, Kota, who was so ill.
Thank you for all the lovely quotes and photos. Happy Easter, and belated Happy Birthday!
Oh, thank you Ruth, it’s not age, is it? It’s time. We only LOVE our moments so much, we want more more more. I’m so sorry about Kota… Blessings on you and yours.💞
What a wonderful post! Some good quotes – love especially the George Eliot quote. She was an amazing writer. So is Kate Morton!! I love that book and all of hers. I entered and won a giveaway by the publisher and had a beautiful set of her books with new art on the covers. I was so proud. A few weeks later I went to get one off the bottom shelf of the book case to re-read, and it did not smell right. Hmm, little boy dogs! UGH! Little rascal LOL! Back to the library for Kate Morton books!
There is a wonderful new show on Netflix I think you would like – The Dr. Blake Mysteries. It is a BBC show set and filmed in Australia in the 1950s. I have fallen in love with Dr. Blake, and the settings are fantastic, with the lovely birds of Australia singing in the background. Addictive!
If it’s any consolation, I am 56 and you look younger than me! You are beautiful on the outside and inside and your love of words and nature and flowers and England and your being involved with people will keep you young for many years to come. I’m glad you had a wonderful birthday!
LOL, bad dog!!! One time Joe and I were leaving to go on a trip, in fact, that very morning, we were rushing to shower and pack the last things, when one of our kitties climbed on top of Joe’s toiletry/book bag and let him know how much she wished we wouldn’t go. We were going on a ship and Joe had to throw the bag overboard it was so terrible!!! I’ll look for Dr. Blake! Thank you Janet! You are so sweet. xoxo
Susan, your blogs are a bright spot in my day! I’m an April girl, too, I will be 65 this year, yikes! My mom-in-law is also April, and she will be 90 this year. (My mom is 93!) Thanks for your inspiration and hope in this crazy year!
You are so lucky to have all your moms around! It will be a Red Letter Mother’s Day!
Oh my dear sweet Susan…..I can’t stand to see you down!! It’s just not like you but I totally know how you feel because it was getting to me too….solution?? Turn off your tv (news). I just had a birthday too..the 6th, and I always go for the throat. Not that I’m going to be 70 next year but that I will be 80 in 11years!!!!😝 Freaks me out!! Ya know why?? Because I haven’t accomplished all I’ve wanted to. I did publish an E-book that I’m proud of but YOU my dear…Just look at all the wonderful things you’ve accomplished. I guess we need to just look at the good stuff. We are not in control whether we like it or not…..My thought is God is in control despite all the stupid things we humans do.
But ya know what???? You cheer me up, give me hope and encourage me with all that you do. Your little figurines, vases of flowers and your art. I love your art, it’s so wonderful.
And my husband got me a little present …a new puppy. Lost my WHFT last year and now I have another one…2 mo Gabby. She makes me laugh all day long. So life is good!! Thank you for your effort in all things.💜💜💜💜💜
Oh it was just a moment in time, happens to everyone sometimes, coming home, beginning again, questions, refilling my creative cup, always frays the edges a bit and leaves strings flying in the wind. A new puppy, Karen, that’s just wonderful! Gabby! Have fun!
Dear Sue,
Best wishes on your birthday, now that you’re a week past that 70 number you can just go on your usual way. I felt the same way you did, at this time last year but I just got to 71 and it was totally painless. This new post was so enjoyable, thanks and thanks also to your Mom for that great quote about the privilege of old age, it definitely puts birthdays in the proper perspective.
Happy Spring,
Lillian
That’s exactly right, on my merry way! Thank you Lillian!
Belated birthday wishes, you young person you! I’ve got you beat by almost 4 years, you’ll be fine.
Sounds like lots of us are in the same place with life in 2017 and doing the same things to relieve the stresses. Thanks for letting us know how you are feeling and giving us some of your “helpful hints for happy living”.
Fun to see the Spring come to your home, ours is a bit further along but it’s still a marvel.
Thank you Jo’L! Still a marvel!
Happy Birthday!! You SO do not look 70 – something for all of us to strive for!
Yes, you are correct – a reality show, not the America of my youth. I am so tired of people saying, “Well, it has always been crazy – corrupt – idiots in charge in Washington DC”. And we should settle for this? I think not –
Wishing you loads of love on your birthday !!
I know ~ so true, Carol! Maybe it’s the great awakening. By the People, For the People, seriously needs The People! Thank you!
As always I love to read your blog and look at all the inspiring photos and art work! I’ve turned off the tv about a month ago. I’ve put 2, 1000 piece puzzled together and read two books so far. Much more interesting than what’s on tv.
Brilliant!
Oh Susan, I too have had “2017 Anxiety”! A new promise to myself- turn OFF the news, pray more and breathe nature in!
I had a beautiful Mother/Daughter day with my 23 year old daughter this past Friday. We enjoyed a day trip of visiting small businesses. My greatest find of the day: Gladys Tabers book “Stillmeadow Sampler” – (my 1st!)-from a small, filled to the brim, used Bookstore in Baraboo. I think I smiled all the way home!
So very Grateful for you and what you bring to our World…Yeah for April Birthdays!
Perfect day, best girlfriend and used bookstore, who could ask for anything more. Good find!
XOXOXO!
A belated Happy Birthday..sometimes the funkiest years turn out to be the very best of years.
I say..as long as you are healthy..you have it all:)
And you have all the rich plus ” es..Joe..many many friends..family..passions..talents..hobbies..and MV:)
I know..we can just about have everything and be in a funk..I hate that.:)
I met the spouse of an ex co-worker of mine..he just passed..we chatted about him and remembered lovely things..she said to me :”He always liked you Monique”..that warmed my heart but brought tears to my eyes..we spoke of things that have happened in the last several years..she know what’s gone on here..yet when she parted with me..she said :”You have it all”..she meant I still had Jacques..
I guess I am just trying to make you feel better:)
But you know all this already:)
I still have about 10 inches of snow in 2 tiny spots where the snowfalls from the roof..but the rest is my blank canvas starting to poke through with details:)
Sometimes, my dearest friends count my blessings for me, and it makes my day. I try to remember to do that for others. Thank you Monique! Ten inches of snow!!! Oh my goodness!
Dearest Susan! Bless your April heart and happiest bday! The pictures of you and your beloved friends making wishes mad my eyes well up; I could just feel you all were praying for our whole world! I too have had a low grade unease.. it comes out at 3 am and then I get up and make a cozy bed on the couch so I don’t trash around and wake my beloved. I snuggle with the dog and pray. I found the most beautiful book, The book ofJoy, written by the Dali Lama and Arch bishop Desmond Tutu. They are dear and mischievous brothers and friends and the book gave a lot of strength, hope, and wonderful suggestions. And, I knew I wasn’t alone praying at 3 am!! Turns out the Dali Lama always gets up at that hour to pray for us all. Isn’t that wonderful?!!!
We had a red letter day for Easter, cooking for our huge loving family, all feel so loved and renewed in sunshine. We celebrated Anna’s, ( snow flake girl:) 18th bday and made her eyes well up with 2 tickets for the sisters to go to Hamilton:) SO so so fun, to make someone’s day.
As you make mine, sending out this blog filled with pure love. May all your dreams and wishes come true this year. I am sending love right back! Caroline
Hamilton!!! What a lucky girl. But 18 deserves it. A Red Letter Birthday for sure! Makes my day just hearing about it! And, you are NOT alone praying at 3 am, I’m right there with you. 💞 Blessings on you and yours!
Dear Susan,
I have been following your work since your Country Living Magazine days; I simply love it! Thank you for the joy you bring to our world.
I ask only one thing–please, please, please refrain from expounding on the current state of politics and the media. These elements have created an omni-present heightened sense of anxiety for many of us for a variety of reasons, and no one needs to have yet another reminder of them as we look to your postings as an escape. Perhaps you could reserve your lovely blog as an oasis from those other things we simply can’t avoid elsewhere. Regardless of where your views fall on the political spectrum, your mere reference to politics and media overload opens the door for yet more debate and discussion about divisive topics. Enough already!
Leave it alone! Resist the urge to drag into your work the persistent consternation about things over which we have very little direct control. Just continue to do what you do best–create joy in others from your creative energy. If you digress, you become part of the poisonous problem that you’ve written about in this posting.
Thank you, Susan. I love your work.
I talked to Joe about it last night. He said, follow your heart. I can’t really help myself. To ignore the real world would be false to who I am, although I have no intention on dwelling on it, but we are all in the same boat together. I’m not a fake person, I can’t pretend because what would you think of me? So I have to say what I think, and hopefully relate to others who feel the same way, and together we solve things (read the comments and you’ll see what I mean). I don’t feel I’m poisonous, I can’t be, I don’t have poison in me. So bear with my few transgressions, and thank you for allowing me this forum to respond to your very astute and timely comment.
Good for you Susan I totally agree and I think when you talk a little politically it helps the rest of us who are feeling the same way. You would not be the person you are if you held back about how you are feeling It makes me feel better knowing that someone else out there is feeling the same way I do about 2017 life does have its ups and downs I wonder if this person is the same one who mentioned this last year but then who cares. Please keep on being you be transparent Susan ❤
Thank you Joan! Honestly, it’s so rare when someone has this kind of suggestion ~ maybe one in 300. I honor it of course, when I hear it, because all thoughts matter, but for the most part, I feel very supported by the majority in whatever this Blog turns out to be about! So far anyway! xoxo
Susan…Joe is right! you are very much supported…and appreciated!!!! we need you!!!!! we’ll not get thru this MESS if we can’t get thru it together!!!!! all love to you!!!!! xoxo
Did you hear the whole long and wonderfully-told story of what is happened to the middle class on TV last night? It was perfect. History is a lovely/terrible thing, there is no changing it!
I wonder why people think they have some right to tell you how to do your own blog? POISON and Susan Branch in the same sentence? I think not. That is laughable. Sorry you have to read this stuff. It breaks my heart. Just remember there 56,000+ others. Proof positive 🙂 💞 💞 💞 💞 xoxo
Oh I do remember that Charissa, I’m so lucky. And sometimes the written word can be misunderstood. I think that may be it in this case. Anyway, Thank you for your loyalty and sweet words, you are always so positive! Kisses and Hugs Girlfriend!
Oh good! I hope that is the case. I am a Mama Bear. Do not mess with my Loved ones. Especially when they are having a small blip of a down time.
I will bite you;)
Not really. I, at the most, will give u a barely imperceptible dirty look while trying to remember that I have no idea what is going on in your life and then silently struggle with being mad at you or trying to understand you for the rest of the day. (But I do try and stick up for my peeps:))
Mama Bears Forever!💞
oh, my God! I think that we got to where we are by NOT talking and debating and being AWARE of things. life, for most of us, was much more about our own little “orbits”…and, tho we knew not everything was “hunky-dorey” for everyone….we just kind of went along. when congress decided, in 2008 to 2016, to obstruct EVERYTHING….well, we didn’t resist! and…now….look at where we are. wow. there has always been bigotry and hatred swirling about, but….now….wow….out in the open, and blatantly so. inciting violence, even! i’ll be 70 in june….and, now, I truly weep for this country…and the world. and, for me, being able to come here….to be amongst Susan and all the others who are worried as well….it is soooooo wonderfully of comfort!! not everyone has nearby to them people of like mind! please let us be here. I must, truly, say what I feel, and so must Susan. much gratitude and blessings to her. she is NOT ABLE to be part of the problem….just not capable of that….she IS a solution of the highest order!! I have “lost” a beloved sister-in-law and her husband…and a MOST precious friend over all of this!!!! NEVER could I have thought, for a minute, that such would happen! wow! soooo, I do understand how people DO NOT want to hear differing views. at this point….I guess I don’t either. but…we must be involved!! pray without ceasing, and work like h–l to make things better!
ps: this long reply was meant for the commenter. there’s a short one meant for Susan. I think you’ll know which is which. much love and peace to all.
I think we all reel from the impossibility of losing our family and neighbors because of politics. The more I hear of Russia putting out false news stories to divide us and undermine our democracy, the more I understand, the more I fear. For what are we without truth? If people have been led to believe they are being lied to day and night, how do you fight that? If people then base their voting on the false information they are hearing, then Russia wins without firing a gun. It is imperative that we all try harder, even looking beyond our own comfort zone, to find the truth. That goes for me too. I am not trying to point fingers, but to figure out a way to solve division.
The other day, I heard that Sandy Hook never happened. That it was fake news. Oh My God. Those little children and their poor parents who have to hear that.
Dear Girlfriend,
First of all……Happy Belated Birthday! 70 looks great on you PLUS you have the attitude of someone much younger and that keeps you young. I hope the coming year is kind to you [and to all of us]. Keep good thoughts.
Let us know when you have your garage sale. I’ll come from Ohio!!
Hahaha, we have a LONG way to go. Been needing to do this for years!
Happy Birthday, Susan! Recently I told a friend that I feel I’m in a constant state of flux, never quite sure that there’s a firm path ahead. From politics to aging, at 62 I did not think life would be like this. Yet, I have the magic of daffodils outside my door & the hope of a new grandchild on the way. Your post made me smile, brought tears, & inspired. Thank you for all that you do & all that you share.
Thank you Teresa, and congratulations on a new grand baby! Happy spring!
Susan, I loved this blog. It is just what I needed. I, like so many of us, have been feeling so unsettled watching the reality show that our president is producing. Your quotes are timely and are reminders of how I can bring a little calmness to myself. By the way, I am 75, soon to be 76. I let my hair go white last year and am amazed at how many compliments I get on it. Keep on doing what you are–being an inspiration to so many people.
Sandra
Being who we truly are is a wonderful goal. Luv-lee aging makes it so much easier. Thank you Sandra xoxoxo
BLESS YOU!! thank you, from me, for your words! i’ll be 70 in june…have kind of salt & pepper & white hair…my husband turned 69 yesterday…we were out buying plants (due to inspiration from Susan!) and a clerk we were speaking with took me to be my husband’s MOM!!!!!!! trust me….I do NOT look that old!! there is truly not a wrinkle or sag in my lil’ face….yet. it was kind of a hehehe moment, tho. that clerk was pretty lucky I was in a good mood! hubby was afraid I was going to put on a reality-show of my own! hehehe.
OMG Chris! I’ve met you in person … Get that clerk some glasses!!! It’s happened to me with my sisters, but that’s much more understandable since they are years younger than me! Now I just avoid going into public with them.😃 I’m waiting for someone to say that about Joe!
oh, yes! and….your comment reminded me…when we had our store in NH, my aunt, who was in her late 80s for God’s sake, was our “head-cashier”…(don’t laugh….SHE could certainly deal with our computerized cash-register BETTER than I could!!!!)….and I were together at check-out. someone mistook me for HER SISTER!!!! now, she was born in 1915…me…1947. HOW could this have happened????? but…I do assure you….I really don’t deserve this!!!! i’ll even send you a pic. then….YOU decide. hehehe. and…truly….i’d KNOW if I did look even close to that old!!!!! really. no vanity here. more hehehe, I guess. all love to my dear friend to whom I can plead my cases!!!!WHAT would we do without you, dear Susan??????????? xoxoxo
LOL Chris, that just isn’t possible. You have to start handing glasses to the people around you!!!! You are so funny! 1915, good God!!! I plead your cases anytime! 😘
Susan,
I have missed you! Each day I would get to work and the first thing I would do before I even checked emails was to see if your new blog post was up. What a relief (especially on a Monday morning…) to see your new post. I, too, have been feeling low. For many different reasons. But once again you have reminded me to look on the bright side and to do the things I need to do to feel better, to feel sane, to feel centered. Thanks for being you!
Nora
Thank YOU for being here Nora! 💝
Susan see there are a large number of us that like you just the way you are. No one had the right to try to change you. We follow you because of who you are. ❤
My mom told me you can’t please everyone, you can only do your best. So that’s what I try to do. And you guys are so WONDERFUL, one of the many blessings I count every day!
Happy Birthday, Susan. You certainly carry your age well–perhaps you are timeless? And do not despair — together we will get through anything, and your blog and your optimism are such a big help!
Not despairing, been repairing, ever bearing, never scaring, and off I go for an airing. (This is when I say, WHAT is wrong with YOU!, meaning me., ever daring! XOXO😘
Thanks for allowing us to come along for the ride!
Happy Birthday, Susan. So many sweet thoughts. Thank you for each of them.
70 isn’t so bad, the alternative is not good. We’re downsizing here and deciding where to set down new roots. Do we go north and end up by the family where it’s cold or head to a more temperate climate where we can be nice and warm and outside more, but we’re on our own. Good and not so good in either choice.
PS: If you drift into the political arena that’s ok with me. Glad to know there are so many good folks on the same page.
Just a wee drifting, thank you for not minding too much. Yes, choices, not always so very easy!
Susan….thank you for letting us read your thoughts, and have a picture window into you…..I support you expressing whatever you choose to express….to share with us is the most important….I am a believer in the expression of our hopes, our joys, our fears, our wonderings…..you are not a person who is “stuck” in the problems of our world….you balance it all….it is quite amazing, that we live on opposite ends of the country, and find the same comforts in grabbing hold of that balance – TCM movies, reading, hugging our people and dogs (or cats) closely, peeking at our garden, walking, breathing the air, listening to others, helping others one by one….Please continue to speak your heart, your mind….because it is who you are, and you personify balance…and you help us – I, for one, starting the day with MSNBC, where,yes, just as your description, it felt surreal, so I read your words, and took back my control of joy..back to coffee and TCM movies….love to you,
and happy birthday year….
Really, my blog has always been about women, from the beginning, about Girlfriends and the things we do and think. I talk to everyone here about the same things my local BFF’s and I talk about together, it’s all what we women are, kind of everything! Thank you Regina, I’m so happy to have you here!
My thoughts exactly. Thanks
Susan, a beautiful post, and I love planting seeds and observing nature, too … but the peace your heart seeks will never be found in this world. You will only find it in the person of Jesus Christ by believing and trusting in Him. He Himself said, “Peace I give to you … not as the world gives” (John 14:27). I would encourage you to seek Him – and you will find Him, if you seek Him with all your heart (Jer. 29:13). Finally, I would have to disagree completely that God is watching us “from a distance” … how incredibly sad to think that He is that far away. On the contrary. The Bible teaches us that we do not need to fear or be anxious because the Lord is NEAR (Phil. 4:4-7). That is the point of the resurrection of Easter – He conquered death so that He could restore the relationship between God and man that sin had severed and once again be near us.
They named you correctly, Joy, very beautiful.
Thank you Joy, so true and particularly appropriate during this holy time.
Well said, Joy! Thank you!!! xoxox
Happy Birthday…Welcome Home…Happy Easter…and Happy Spring dearest of all Susan’s! 2017 has been crazy difficult to journet through….I thought I was living healthy, when …BAM!…all of a sudden I caught a virus, my family history of genetics kicked in, and I ended up with type 1 diabetes and chronic nerve pain all over in waves from day to day. Then you throw in things that shock you in our world…like suddenly reading “we” have nuked another country…WHAT?……and of course trying to figure out a new future for yourself since the physical activities are now very limited. Etc etc. However..I refuse to be pushed down in my spirit, soul, and family! Happiness is truly in being very grateful for those things you do have….and your blogs are a part of happiness. I love the Springtime the best, and to see everything coming back to life and opening up every day more and more is a huge joy. Oh…and I am also looking forward to that new movie channel! Yay! Thank you for always sharing so much. 😇 you are like an Angel! Xoxoxo
That strength and presence of mind will keep you young no matter what. My dad had that, and it was a joy to behold for everyone around him as I’m sure it is for your beloveds. xoxox Love to you Diane!
Thank you for the kind words…and about our beloved Blog Daddy too! What a wonderful father he was! I think we have to make the choice that no matter what our age, or health, it is much more fun to not throw in the towel and to gather up…all around us…all of the happy things we can still enjoy, and the people and little, loving pets to surround ourselves with comfort and special moments, if that makes sense. I have been informing my family of the level of pain I feel …from 1 to 10….and usually I am now at a 3..which is when we all get out and get going somewhere and do the activities we want to do. It isnt perfect anymore, but it is definitely good enough! We laugh, have fun…then go home and tuck me into bed for awhile…lol. You are right… we stay young with our attitudes…but, really, can we even help it? I am forever 23 yrs old inside, and I still love to be silly. 😍. I so love all the pictures you take the time to post for us…..and I did think you were praying over your candles! Lol…wishes really are secret prayers! Xoxo
They really are, and right now, I’m having some wishes for you! xoxoxo
Hi Susan ~
Happy belated birthday and Easter! ~ I know you are concerned about 2017 as everyone is but I have a couple simple quotes to take my off all the doom and gloom
” Focus on the Good” and ” Fear can keep us up all night long but Faith makes one fine pillow”.
~Have a good day ~
Lynn
Faith makes one fine pillow, love that!
Dearest Susan, Hope all of your birthday wishes come true. It really has been such an anxious time. Having a son serving in the Military with such scary things happening in the world almost cripples me at times. Then I breath and I pray. I also remind myself what I have always taught my sons, that there is still so much more good than bad in this world. Everyday Angels around us humble me with their acts of charity. I have my moment (or meltdown) and then I remind myself how blessed I am. First I shut off the news which I become addicted to during these times. Then I get busy. I crochet a baby blanket for a niece, plant pansies, pray, Volunteer at the Military Lounge at our local airport, watch the video of my youngest granddaughter Hadley just learning to crawl, pray, mentor a young Mom with severe depression for a local non profit, and did I mention pray? I have a husband of 36 years that still reaches for my hand to hold. Then I read your books or blog and always feel better, at peace. You my dear are the perfect cure for these troubling times. PS Grace & Frankie is hysterical. Laughter really is the best medicine.
Oh my dear, your third line. 😢 I love you. Blessings and safe passage for your boy, a hero to us all. xoxo
Thought I missed your blog but only by two days. Happy Belated Birthday to you. You don’t look a day over 21. I can relate to the gloomies which can enter our lives. Been having a few of those myself due to things beyond my control. My deceased mom always use to say, “Why worry about something that might be? When it looks like it may becoming a reality, that’s when it’s time to put your dukes and come out fighting.”
Happy Spring to you!
LOL, yes, 21! Happy Spring to you Audrianne, your mom was very smart!
Susaaaaaaann ❤❤❤❤ This post came at just the right time!!!! Thank you, love!! 😘😘
Cassandra
Blessings on you Cassssssandra! xoxo
Oh Susan, I know just how you feel! My 60th birthday is looming ahead…just 3 months more and I’m holding on to 59 with my whole being. Thank you for this uplifting post- you put things into prospective for me- Love you, love this blog. P.S. I love lists too! Can’t survive without them 🙂
P.S.S. Waiting patiently for my mug…
Jacqui G
Coming soon Jacqui! 💖
Susan,
Happy belated birthday. Thank you for the “list” advice. I am a little overwhelmed right now and really needed this. My daughter is getting married in less than 3 weeks and my son, who(m) I haven’t seen in almost a year, will be home in less than 2 weeks for the wedding (he is serving our country in the Air Force). There is so much to do and so much anticipation that I have been having trouble getting things done. Besides the fact that I am a terrible procrastinator! I am making my list now and eliminating the little things that won’t make a difference in how it all turns out. Thank you for the wonderful breaks in my day when you post on your blog. I love seeing the beautiful pictures and reading your words of inspiration and hope. Have a wonderful day.
Brilliant Pat. What excitement at your house! I know it will be wonderful, because you will be together. Make up a huge plate of sandwiches to put in the fridge before they come so you never have to worry about food while they’re there. xoxoxo
Happy belated birthday, and welcome back home. You’ve had a busy, crazy, sad mixed-up time of things lately — no wonder you’re feeling all out of whack! I’m glad you know the things to do that help you get back to feeling like yourself. Your walking post was very timely for me, since I promised myself a daily walk — and started this morning. I don’t have your woods and pond to motivate me, but I do have a quiet country road in a beautiful central PA valley, with a view of the mountains all around me as I walk. I just finished reading Isle of Dreams (again) and I wondered if the brown leather jacket you’re wearing on your walk is the one that replaced the white “refrigerator” coat from your first winter here? I’ve laughed so many times at your description of you and that puffy coat!
It’s the second reincarnation of my first brown leather jacket that actually WORE OUT (California people do not wear out their leather jackets, always a wonder to me that it happened!) ~ Your walk sounds lovely. Enjoy. And if, for any reason, it gets “boring” because I’ve had walks that do, then a recorded book is your answer. In my boring walking spot, listening to a recording of a good book made me go further than I had even planned, because I wanted to hear how things came out!!!
Love you Susan and a Happy Belated Birthday. When I turned 70 three years ago it was the first birthday that really bothered me! The feeling didn’t last long because if you are thankful you can’t be sad at the same time.
Thanks for the lovely blog…so many good things we all need to hear and don’t you ever stop being “real”. It’s the most important thing you can do for yourself. (and by the way, we love your “real”)
A quick comment on the t.v. watching..we kept two teenage granddaughters for several days while Mom and Dad were on vacation. It was a wonderful, beautiful time and we enjoyed them so much. One evening Becca got into the living room and got control of the remote before Papa. He came in and “Andy Griffith?” She replied “Papa, it’s got everything you need to know.” We all settled down for a couple episodes and enjoyed some good laughs and quality time together. So we do have some choices and by selecting the good ones, we can rise above all the other things clamoring for control in our lives. Bless you and have wonderful spring!
How darling, Deanna! Thank you for that sweetness!
We LOVE The Andy Griffith Show!!!
Happy, happy birthday and 70th year!!!! Let’s pray that the leaders of our country can get an abundant dose of humanity and good sense. Like you, I am normally a very optimistic person but the current events have been bringing me down. Also, my ovarian cancer marker numbers were trending up (not at all good). I was in a funk and decided that I was not going to waste any more days or minutes dreading what I can’t control so am walking in beautiful leafy and dogwood, azalea and iris filled Knoxville. I am changing out the closets and refreshing the house with open windows, lighter curtains and bedding and getting out clutter that never sees the light of day! I’m planting flowers and volunteering more at church. The world looks a lot better!! And….my PET scan came back clear!!!! Life is so good!
YAY! Reward for changing out the closets and smelling the flowers. Blessings Carol!
It’s so easy to get overwhelmed by the World of today, but know that God has it all under control, and he will work out everything according to his plan, which is to draw all of us closer to him, under the protection of his wings. We can’t be ostriches, but best to limit the time we allow the media to influence us…they’re all about drama and selling advertising….and we have so little ability to make positive changes except in the sphere of influence where we live….so that’s our job.
I appreciate so much the way you share your thoughts and feelings, Susan. You are so representative of those of us who follow you…and you never fail to uplift us with your observations and quotes and photos. You are a blessing to me and your sphere of influence.
Lovely words Kathy!
Most wonderful Sue, I just wanted to say I love you lots and lots. April hugs to you and Joe.
Thank you Christie, always wonderful to see you here!
I related to your feelings in this blog so much (with the worldwide anxieties and regular sometimes overwhelming life stuff and me coming up to 67 this year, and etc.), and then was so ministered to by you with your seed list and deep breathing and walk to the pond and your hydrangeas and hyacinths and forsythia and my Nana’s favorite pansies. (I did try to write Saturday morning, but my internet had a cold or something.) Anyway, now that lovely Easter has been celebrated again with family and friends and spring is well established, it is the perfect time for me to open the windows, take a deep breath, and make a list that will help maintain the equilibrium. And all of this is so much more fun to do with you. xoxoxo
And a huge visa versa to you Christie! Wouldn’t be as fun without you!
Oh, Dear Sue! I was just thinking about you and if you were going to write another book!!!! Must have picked up on the brain-waves! Will you dust off “Pancakes” or do you have another idea brewing? So loved your post…2017 is full of angst here, too. The static energy that flows throughout (newspapers, TV, FB) seems to undermine the sense of calm we all desperately need to stay centered!
Its hard to believe you were on the road for 6 weeks! Wow! And, I know just what you mean when you say you were glad to be home. Just like Gladys Taber:“Traveling is all very well if you can get home at night. I would be willing to go around the world if I came back in time to light the candles and set the table for supper. I cannot conceivably influence the world’s destiny, but I can make my own life more worthwhile. I can give some help to some people; that is not vital to all the world’s problems and yet I think if everyone did just that, we might see quite a world in our time!” Welcome home! ♥
Missing you oodles! Much love to you (and Joe!)……xoxoxo peg
This world is so much better because it has YOU in it, Peg! xoxo Thank you!
Thank you for this post Susan. Happy Birthday…we share the same date! You are just a baby step ahead of me, showing how to do with with grace and humor. I preordered my mug as a birthday gift to me from me. Keep your eye on the prize, serenity and keep making your corner of the world (and mine) a place of love and beauty. A belated Happy Easter to you, Joe and the fur babies. Happy Spring!!
Happy Spring back to you Suzanne, and eyes on the prize, beauty.💞
Plotting a new book?! Oh my! I couldn’t put The Fairy Tale Girl or Isle of Dreams down…. Please tell us it’s another book like those two treasures?
Yes, something like them, I would imagine. I had such a good time writing those books!
Happy birthday Susan! I now state my age (64) and instantly laugh out loud. Even I cannot believe it! How did I go from 35 directly to 64??? I must have been having fun somewhere. Did I know it at the time? Gee… I live in Lala Land. It is nice here. I try staying far away from the news as it is head shaking material. It is “Fake” isn’t it? lol So I turn to my attitude adjusters: Susan Branch Blog, Hallmark channel, HGTV and the Food Network…all balms for my soul. I can stay in these worlds for as long as I wish. Yesterday I sat enjoying a few of your books, ‘Vineyard Seasons’ and ‘Heart of the Home’. Total escape-ism (spelling?) Springtime is blooming all over my yard finally and I think that will help us all focus in on what is important: to pick or not to pick. Now, that is the question. Have a lovely day. Hugs~
Now that IS the question! Too sweet Susie, thank you!
Happy 70th, Dear Susan. Enjoy all the birthday celebrations. If you are interested, Martha Stewart baked a Tres Leches cake on her baking show recently, and her website shows several different versions of this cake in addition to the one she baked on her show.
It is so good to have another post from you–I missed you!
I would check that out EXCEPT that Margot made me the most delicious cake and now I’m determined to get that recipe, we want more! She wrote a little while ago and told me she’d get it for me, so I’m willing to wait!
Hi Susan
This is the other train person. The one who wrote to you when your Heart of the Home first came out!!
Being 70 and almost 71 with a refusal to “grow up” philosophy, I tried to make a list but CANT REMEMER where I put it ..lol .of course it’s in a safe place. Ya right!!
Anyway, I am looking forward to EONS of you, you 70 yr old cutie. I have every thing that you have written, drawn, suggested, etc etc and looking forward to my beautiful china mug Ahhh!!
You are the best, most inspiring and amazing lady.. age pffft! REALLY??
Take care and wishing you a belated BIRTHDAY 🙄❤️And hugs from THIS HEART OF MY HOME. 😉
Hi Robin, so nice to hear from you! THANK YOU!!
I always seem to think that everyone is my age or younger. I turned 65 in March and I would have bet my bottom dollar that you were, yes, my age or younger. No wonder you are so wise! Happy, happy birthday! Thank you for talking about stress. I share your concerns. I so appreciate your blog which helps to provide a respite and bring a smile to my face.
Yes, look what you can do in five years!!! LOL, that’s a very definite joke! Love having you here Kathleen!
Somehow when I immerse myself in a little of your world, I immediately feel buoyed and hopeful. Your perspective is such a balm to my soul and it’s no wonder I’ve loved you since your very first book all these decades ago. I still want to be you someday when I grow up…. Next month (I’m a May baby) I’ll be 56 and I’m still not growed all the way up yet (intentional bad grammar). Just happy that I still have you to lead the way to seeing the bliss all around in the little things.
I’m not growed all the way yet either, perhaps you will catch up with me! xoxo