A MEDITATION ON WHITE SPACE

Make room for some white space! That’s what I always say! Morning MUSICA! I have a little story I wanted to share with you: Back before most of us even met, way back when, just after my first book (Heart of the Home) came out, I had the most interesting thing happen. Most of it, actually, wasn’t good, even though it definitely started out good, and ended up okay, I think, overall I could have done without it. Out of the blue I was contacted on the phone by the New York ad agency that represented Pepperidge Farm ~ they said really nice things about my new book, and asked me if I would like to design an ad for Pepperidge Farm using my handwriting and watercolors. I was very flattered, as you can imagine. Leaping and jumping occurred, calling of parents happened. I traveled to New York to meet with the agency, and gave my new book to the all the Pepperidge Farm executives at the meeting (to take home to their wives), and said I’d love to. But something happened, I never quite understood what, but it all short-circuited, and even though it never made any sense to me, for some unknown reason I stopped hearing from them. Disappointing and kind of embarrassing, but for all I knew, this was normal in big-ad-New-York-world. I put everything I’d done for them in a shopping bag and pushed it under my desk. A year later, when I saw my own handwriting and my favorite wooden spoon (among other things) watercolored in a New York Times Magazine double-page ad for Pepperidge Farm,

and then People Magazine too, my heart fell. My own personal spoon. Really, the nerve of some people’s children. Apparently what happened is that they sent my book to another artist in New Jersey and paid her to copy my work and do the ads. And because I was just beginning my career and very naive, and I thought this was so wrong on all levels since this book felt like my baby, I found a lawyer and took them to court. Talk about David and Goliath. As you might guess, I didn’t fare all that well, mostly because, unbeknownst to me until the very end, there was a limit of $10,000 that could be awarded and that’s only if you WIN the case, which I did, thank goodness!  It took two years for it to get to court,  but by the time we were finished I’d easily spent that $10,000 on the legal retainer, postage, Mary Tyler Moore city clothes for court, travel and the hotel room in New York where I had to go for a whole week for the “trial.” It could have been way worse I found out later, they could have made me pay the lawyer the $250,000 bill it took to do this, but instead, thank goodness, they made the other side pay it. (Moral of the story, unless you are a lawyer try to stay out of court.) For a few days, I thought I’d have to pay the lawyers myself, tears came out of my eyes horizontally when I first heard about it, but luckily when the ad agency appealed, the judge made the lawyers settle and let me go. Whew! Anyway, one fascinating thing came out of it, my “style” was defined by an expert (and, as it turned out in the end, it was protected by the law 😊). The ad agency brought in all kinds of evidence, that I didn’t own “my style,”  I didn’t own hearts, they said, I didn’t own handwriting or wooden spoons (I said, “Even with the little lines?”); they darkened the court room and showed an old black and white movie of the venerable foreverness of Pepperidge Farm, they would have brought in Margaret Rudkin in a coonskin cap and calico apron if they could have, to try and show that perhaps it was me that had copied them! But one person they did bring was an art expert from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Very impressive to me since I’d never had an art lesson and at the time, didn’t know I had a “style.” She was supposed to analyze my art (on the stand) and tell the jury if it had special properties that should be protected. She showed everyone the wide white borders and a few pages with almost nothing on them. And SHE said, the expert said, pointing and holding up my book,  that I was, and I quote, “A master of the white space.” HA! A master! Of the white space! I almost fell out of my chair. So there. And I have lived off that bit of information for the last 30 years.

And there’s really no doubt it was true ~ I probably never would have seen it on my own, but it’s so obvious, what shows off splotches of glorious color better than white space?

Even in the bubbles . . .

Even in my first painting, I’ve always liked the paper as much as what I put on it and left a lot of it blank.

A little white space, especially in the pages of a book, gives the eye a rest . . . just like quiet listening during a conversation, gives gravitas and meaning to the words . . .

This is one of the pages the art expert held up to the jury to make her point. Who knew? But I’ll tell you, it means a LOT when someone from a museum says something like that to you.💝 After all she was under oath. Made it all worthwhile. 😜

When I look back at what has inspired me, what I’ve surrounded myself with, such as these embroidered tea towels, it all makes sense, I see how good those little stitches look against the white.

I particularly enjoyed designing a line of white quilting fabrics . . . What is an old quilt without white? I don’t know!

White gives flavor to everything . . .

. . . and more white . . .

. . . in every shape . . . that blue would be nothing without the white! Subconsciously, it was probably quilts that turned me into a “master of the white space.” Perhaps “mistress” would be better.  Inspiration comes from everywhere!

White makes the perfect background . . .

It has such freshness . . .

and perks up and softens any room . . .

White lightens hearts, smooths away troubles and makes black and white kitties the perfect decorating accent.

And something else about white, it makes a room like a movie set. Change the pillows to black floral needlepoint, put in a brown and red quilt, and you’re ready for winter. Add a Christmas tree or a basket of spring flowers to the room, glass candlesticks and a bowl of oranges in the spring, brass and wood candlesticks in the winter, and you get a complete change with very little work. Not that this is the only way to go, some think white is hard to keep clean . . . but,

Maybe that’s why so many New England houses are painted white,  because the seasons change, and there is never any color clash since white goes with everything, looks fabulous with snow, beautiful with colorful falling leaves, excellent with forsythia. This is our backyard yesterday morning. Spring has sprung! Tomorrow is May! Rabbit-rabbit!

And palest pink, almost white flowers, look luv-lee against the green . . .

Mix and match old vintage white yard furniture does too!

Everything shows up better with a white frame . . .

This was the table for a wedding shower I did for one of my girlfriends. Nowadays white space has a much broader meaning for me, it’s a kind of emptiness and space, whether it’s in decorating, or in open places left free for dreaming. Quiet mornings are perfect for white space. Reading a good book is white space with a story. A massage is black-out white space.

Like bubble baths and birdsong. It’s downtime. The nonthinking thing. Ommmmm. Know what I mean? Like 1864, when there were only ticking-clock noises, the sound of the turning of a page, the flicker of a candle, the scratch of a pen, the purring of a cat, the soft snoring of a dog, the rustle of fabric. These are my favorite sounds and always hardest to hear.  The chick-chick-chick of the lawn sprinkler going round and round on a warm summer day. But it doesn’t just happen, not in this wild world of ours, like everything else, if you want it, you have to make it yourself.

Take note: even Downton Abbey knew the power of white . . . that table just would not be the same in green.

Perhaps not quite the same in grandeur, but pretty good considering the serious and bewildering lack of a downstairs staff!

So that’s what I’ve been doing to my own little home sweet home … since we got back from California, I’m my own downstairs staff, putting my house back together, smoothing things out, making space. I’ve been writing books, designing cups and calendars, and traveling so much, my home, my first love, got out of hand with clutter. Spring cleaning was number one on my list of things to do when we got home, I want my house back! I have a long way to go, but here I begin, by clearing everything off the kitchen table (a feat in and of itself) and oiling the wood top, so there’s more contrast between the cute white legs and the wood floor, and the wood table and the white wainscoting.

I oiled both the table and the wood counter top ~ because we have our furnace on all winter, the color gets dried right out of the wood . . .

You can see how it works here on the handles of my pans ~ I can’t believe they got this bad, they practically have splinters! A little mineral oil makes such a difference! You just brush it on your wood boards, spoons, whatever you have, and leave it to sink in to bring back the mellow colors of the natural wood.

Here you can see the table when the oil is about halfway soaked in. Takes a few days.

This is me ⬇️

While I was working in the kitchen, I would step out into the salty cold spring air, to take Joe a cup of tea while he was de-thatching and reseeding the lawn (and give him brilliant advice, lucky man) and gaze at the tulips and daffodils blooming . . . note how good they look with a white picket fence!

And we put a new roof on the house, because the rain was coming into my sewing room!

And birds were landing and frolicking in the birdbath . . .And I put bright spring flowers in my little vases . . .

I washed all the dishes in my open cupboards in several dishwasher loads . . .

But anything hand-painted, or gold edged I washed by hand . . .

And dried  . . .
And put away on my shiny clean shelves above my luv-lee oiled counter . . . the dishes and glassware sparkly and colorful against the white space . . .

ready for garden tea parties.

And then there was a joint April birthday party for myself and two of my best girlfriends! Which was wonderful of course!  But, what I wanted to mention,  as you can see by my outfit, I seem to have a new thing about the color blue.

I’m normally such a pink person, and now, all of a sudden, this yearning for blue. Kind of like all the years I couldn’t stand blue cheese dressing, and suddenly now I can’t get enough of it! I’m so happy new things keep happening! And I’ve learned, the only way to it is through it, so, hello blue, here I come! I kept thinking about changing the look of my newly clean and spacified kitchen . . . so finally, I went on line thinking, “rugs” ~  and sent away for some rag-rug samples . . . Something cool and fresh for the long hot summer . . . something, to be specific, blue.

I asked Jack, “Choose the one you like best.” And so, being the brilliant cat that he is, he did. I got out some dishtowels to see how they would look, and my new imaginary world began …

I thought, I wonder how Jack’s choice will look with fall colors?

Okay I said, how will it look with my new cups . . .

Within two weeks, and for about $300, I went to the Dash and Albert website and got three new rugs (there’s another of those lighter, windowpane rugs just out of sight on this side of the kitchen table) . . . I took all the little magnets and pictures off my fridge, and gave myself more white space and took a big deep breath of the clean emptiness. If anyone dares so much as set a newspaper down in here, I will have a fit. I’m warning me!

I shopped my house for other blue things . . . I changed the red-checked kitchen-table lampshade to one from the guest room that had bluebirds on it . . . the red checks will come back in the fall, when the seasons change again and all hearts turn to “cozy” . . .

I put away the red and pink potholders and pulled out the yellow and blue crocheted vintage potholders for the top of my stove . . .

And hunted through the dishtowel pile for some blue and yellow ones that showed up very nicely on the oven-door handles for which they were made . . .

I thought my little blue-flowered cup would be darling on top of my stove . . . with the miniature white chair as background.

Away goes the red-heart teapot, and out comes the blue one . . .

I lined up some of my favorite blue mugs . . .

And remembered the paper mockup of the blue-bird cup and thought I’d try it here . . . and decided this is a must-do mug, and so the real thing, lovely bone china from England will be coming into our web store hopefully by August! Oh the power! To be able to design a cup to match my kitchen! What a world!

And here it is, peaceful, calm, and plain, don’t you think? Almost Amish. Possibly Swedish. Definitely hyggeish. And the perfect backdrop to a summer filled with flowers, watch that vase on the kitchen table! I’m thinking perhaps next I need some new chair pads . . . perhaps in white . . . ?

I get to turn my calendar to May tomorrow, I peeked ahead and I was so happy to see it’s blue! Perfect timing!

My Beatrix Potter People have lived through years of my decorating transitions (transgressions!), but they are as they are forever, color matters not at all when it comes to them.

Blue schmoo. I love you just the way you are. 😘

Other than that . . . I’ve been getting the garden ready . . . the strawberries are doing really well, and there’s a fresh new layer of compost over everything. Spring rains are working their magic . . .

And I’ve been designing new dishes, interesting casual little things for serving and displaying . . .  I love this little teapot plate! It’s whiteness is the perfect background for art, and for lemon cake or cookies too! I’ll do three different designs, this one and two with center art, so that they could either be used on the table or hung on the kitchen wall. I’ve been designing cat dishes too, and some other things . . . but not to put the cart before the horse and get us too excited, first we have to make sure this is all do-able before it is written in stone.

These, on the other hand . . .

are written

in stone . . .

. . .  and ready to ship from England on May 4th!!! I’m so excited. Did I tell you how strong fine bone china is?  An English gentleman named Jon, from the manufacturer in England, came to visit us today (I gave him tea in my new Love cup in my plain but gorgeous new kitchen) and he almost gave me a heart attack with a little surprise demonstration of slamming the cup on the table edge! It didn’t break, neither the cup, nor the table! He was very proud. And now, so am I. Quality is so rare. And another thing, bone china is so dense it holds the heat really well. I already knew this ~ I could tell from drinking from them, but he confirmed it. I gave away two of the only samples I had to my birthday girlfriends, so I am waiting just as hard for them as the rest of you! Soon girlfriends, soon. And, btw, they are almost all gone! Which is good/bad, but I think everyone who wanted one has it by now, I hope so. Those designs will be retired. They are all yours. And I’m in the studio again, designing three maybe four more cups, including my bluebird, and this Santa Claus ~ all new designs, for fall, and tea, and the holiday season ~ Jon brought me some other sizes to choose from too. I love hearing your ideas, about what art you’d like to see on a cup, I wish we could afford to do all we’d like to do because there are SO many wonderful ways to go! One day at a time!  

So, this is where I’ll be on the Thursday before Mother’s Day! The perfect thing to do to celebrate my favorite holiday, raise money for children in need . . . If you’re in the neighborhood, put on your Easter bonnet, and please bring your mom, your sister, or your best friend and join us for this luv-lee Tea Party, mom-celebration, and book talk and signing in Massachusetts  . . . for tickets and more information go HERE . . .

One more thing, speaking of white, have you all seen The White Queen? There are ten episodes, followed by eight more of the White Princess.  Wonderful! Joe and I just started the White Princess, but the Queen was great! Look for it . . . it’s on Starz now, we get it by talking into our remote. Which makes me wonder, was talking into a remote really necessary?  Anyway, that’s how we get it.

Last but not least, something else wonderful and new:  you know how they call different generations by different names? How they slot us by age into our little Baby Boomer, Gen-X, Millennial, or Centennial boxes? Well, I just heard about a new one this morning  ~ a group they are calling “Perennials.” Just the name made me want to join!  And this label has nothing to do with date of birth, it’s for all ages, people from every generation are welcome. It’s for anyone who manages to weather the winter storms and survive, for those who stay current with the world, with technology (accepting talking remotes with grace), are passionate, creative and compassionate truth seekers . . . who keep curious about the world and stay involved. Those are the Perennials. So us. Ever-blooming. No more generation segregation! Don’t you love it!? I hope this spreads like wildfire. And I decided to try something new . . . just to see if I like it. I’ve been meaning to for quite a while . . . Instagram! So I finally did it about a week ago, I’ve been over there introducing myself, and it’s been really fun meeting new people. If you want to see, here’s a link to my page . . . I don’t have it all figured out, but apparently it’s something that can only be done from your phone.

Sun’s coming up, the bottom of the sky is palest pink going up to lavender, then periwinkle blue, a gorgeous beginning to the day, trees black against the dawning light. Yesterday we took the first storm windows off, so this morning my studio is filled with bird song. And me? I just had a bowl of the biggest juiciest red ripe strawberries. And now I’m off to clean out the sideboard in the dining room! Bye Girlfriends, 💞 have a wonderful day! 

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744 Responses to A MEDITATION ON WHITE SPACE

  1. antonia lutz says:

    Love this post I will never look at pepperidge farm the same again hee I believe we can take inspiration from other creatves but not steal the art outright

    • sbranch says:

      We all stand on the shoulders of those who’ve come before us, really it’s distilled creativity if you think about it. We see what we see, learn what we learn, and put our own personal and very original creative spin on it. And all our heroes, even Beatrix Potter and Mark Twain, had heroes too . . . since the beginning of time.

  2. Patti Fitzgerald from Skippack, PA says:

    Happy May Day, dear Susan! I’m so incredibly excited every time I receive an e-mail that tells me you have written a new blog! Reading it is always the highlight of my day . . . I can’t seem to get enough of your vivid photographs and inspirational words! And you are so right – – white is the perfect accent color, the perfect backdrop color. It brings out the best in all other colors! I remember driving to work one day after a snowstorm, and the landscape was so brilliant and so breathtaking, that I felt as though I was driving through Heaven itself!!
    I work in an old (circa 1888) brick grist mill – we are a home decor shop called Primitive Blessings in Harleysville, PA (look us up on Facebook!). I love the contrast of our white-washed merchandise against the old wood floors and stucco walls, as well as the simple beauty of flowers in a white bucket – – or white flowers in a galvanized metal bucket! Once again, you have given me a wealth of inspiration – – I can’t wait to go home and start reorganizing my china cabinet! Hmmm, I have some creamy white plates from Lenox with different birds and flowers on them . . . !!!
    Love you to the (white!) moon and back, Susan!!

    • sbranch says:

      I agree, a good snowstorm is pure fairyland. White on white, sparkle on sparkle. Love how we inspire each other Patti! Thank you!

  3. Rose Wade says:

    I shall boycott Pepperidge farm(at least until Thanksgiving) How DARE THEY???

    • sbranch says:

      I know, but I really don’t blame them ~ it was more the work of the ad agency … I was never sure how much PF knew about what happened, but I WAS surprised to see the agency use the Pepperidge Farm reputation to try to win their case. Never made sense to me, since what we were talking about was copying artwork directly from my book! I guess they were trying to muddle things up!

  4. Vida Howard says:

    Well it just seems like you have been gone for ages. I enjoyed reading all about everything. Some bad things, some good things, some past and some future. Isn’t that just life?
    I am so happy you are home and healthy and getting a big dose of Spring. Oklahoma has had more than its share of rain and flooding lately but the sun is out today and I just started spreading wildflower seed and sunflower seed on a new 20 acres. Ill send you pics if we get Blooms.
    My Husband eyes and all six of my grandkids are Blue. All different shades! So it has always been a favorite color of mine too!

    Well Happy Springtime and Welcome Home! We will be cruising into Summer before you know it.

  5. Kerry Linklater says:

    A fan for a long time Susan! Love, love your heartfelt creativeness!!
    Please keep writing your blog for another 100 years! Oh and I will never purchase another Pepperidge Farm product!!!

  6. Lynn says:

    We are almost done renovating our kitchen, from golden oak to gray cabinets, from beige tile to white granite countertops. I, too, have a small selection of May Flower plates, which would be lovely to use in the spring. Thanks for reminding me! Having a very clean countertop, as they are still working on my kitchen, makes me want to put NOTHING on my counters!! I know THAT won’t last, but a girl can dream!
    Thank you for a bright blog, in what has been a dark week. Keep looking forward, I keep telling myself!

    • sbranch says:

      That’s the way to go! Congratulations on your new kitchen, so much fun to redecorate!

  7. Susie Durrschmidt says:

    Another wonderful blog post. I now feel content with the world once more. Thank you Susan. I was so glad to hear Jack helped with the kitchen decorating decisions. Good choice Jack! I have a blue and white collection/display. It gives my heart calm to just stare at it. Love-er-lee, I tell you. I am loving the new mugs. Pondering which one to get. Perhaps more than one…all in good time. I will be proud to drink from them.

    • sbranch says:

      Not to scare you, but at this point they are all gone. HOWEVER, the manufacturer has this thing called + or – 10%, which means when we placed our order, we can end up with as much as 10% less than ordered OR, as in this case, up to 10% higher. What that means is that we have around 250 extra mugs coming. We don’t know how many of each yet, we should know soon, and when we do, we’ll put those back in our web store. Until then, it just says “sold out.” So if you are interested in these particular patterns (which will be retired after these are gone), watch our web store! Thank you Susie, I’ll give Jack an extra pat on the head for you!

      • Susie (Rocky Point, NY) says:

        Ooh I did get scared today, but was able to order a mug. I selected Favorite Things. The kitty on it sealed the deal. I was always drawn to the Love mug too. One can never have enough love around. Fingers are crossed that I will be able to get all 3 one day soon. “A dream is a wish your heart makes…”

        • sbranch says:

          Yay! I just want all the Girlfriends who want a cup to get one!!! I feel so bad when later I hear that someone didn’t! I hope we have enough for everyone. If not, new patterns are already in the making!

  8. Lillian Olmstead says:

    Hi Susan,
    I loved the blue and white theme in your kitchen. It looks so clean and crisp just like Spring, this is just a suggestion but maybe a crisp white with a thin bright blue stripe would be nice for the chair pads. I posted earlier but I think it got eaten, so happy May Day and please accept this virtual May basket of blue and white violets for your door knob.
    Happy Spring,
    Lillian O.

    • sbranch says:

      Oh thank you, love it. We really did that when I was little. We lived in Long Beach California next to a little river that had pink mallow growing wild all around it. 🌸 We made May baskets from old wallpaper cones and yarn, and tied them to doorknobs in the neighborhood. We also made leis!!! My mom . . .💞 Master of the art of keeping children busy!

  9. Debby Holman says:

    I just loved this post. So bad of PF to use an agency that did this to you. But, my son works in advertising and I know some of the bad things that have happened to him, such as other agencies copying his work. I was so glad to hear. however, about how being a master of white space has transformed you and allowed you to go confidently into the world to fulfill your dreams. it was also so good to see the picture of Girl Kitty. Happy spring to you and Joe.

    • sbranch says:

      Yes, happening just after my first book, I think that white space comment definitely gave me more confidence. And who doesn’t need that! Love Girl, glad you enjoyed seeing her again . . . me too!

  10. Laura says:

    Susan, I’m so sorry you had to go to court over your artwork. How terribly upsetting and how awful to feel like you’re not able to have complete control of your own work. I think your style screams, “Susan.” I don’t think it compares to anyone else 😉

    I have two questions for you.. Where did you get that lovely lampshade with the bird on it? I love it!!!
    Also, one of your mugs has already sold out!!! I went to finally purchase them and am
    So bummed it’s gone. It’s the one with the sheep on it.. favorite things possibly? Would you be willing to do a small second order of these if enough of us want one?

    • sbranch says:

      I know, about the mugs 😲, kind of shocking. BUT, we found out that they actually made 200 extra mugs, but we don’t know yet how many of each, so we can’t put them in the web store (don’t want to accidentally sell something we don’t have!). But if you want “In Love with Nature,” the one with the sheep, keep watching, because as soon as they tell us how many extra of each, we’ll put them up until they are all gone. Reprints are difficult because the minimum order (the number of mugs we HAVE to get) is quite high, and pretty much everyone has what they wanted, so we might get stuck with a whole lot of extra (very expensive) mugs . . . see what I mean? Such a balancing act! So that’s why we do the presale, so we can figure out how many we need to get, PLUS, we added on a whole bunch, and even they’re gone. Very surprising, but this is the first time, we’ll do better next time! (But no guarantees!😜) The lampshade was made by Ayn Chase ~ they used to carry them at Rainy Day, a store here in Vineyard Haven. I haven’t been there lately, so I don’t know what they have now. But you could call them!

  11. Karen says:

    I have this blog now for the third time ! I love that you add photos and quotes to your art. I especially love the tiny blue flowers you have in between a few of the photos. They are precious! Blue … so soothing.
    Your house looks beautiful.

  12. I love your white space Susan! Just beautiful 🙂 Happy May Day!!!

  13. Kathy says:

    Love, love the blue bird mug!! Another one that I’ll have to purchase. Blue is
    my favorite color!

  14. Donna Watkinson says:

    Your chairs would look pretty with yellow and white check or a print with both yellow and
    Blue. Love your blue bird cup! Will be excited to get the love cup I ordered. I so
    Love reading everyone’s replies. Thank Joe for letting us all see his hanging tea bag
    on his shirt. It made me laugh so when I really needed a laugh! Have happy new MayDay!
    With love, Jan

  15. nina edwards says:

    Hi Susan, I think that I owe you an apology. I once wrote that fate had a crush on you, because your plan to become an artist seemed destined. But your PF ad-agency story set me straight. Talent, hard work & the right resources weren’t the only things necessary to launch your career. You fought for what’s right and then let it go…that’s a rare and beautiful way to live your life. After waiting for 3 years for my brother(using lawyers) to execute my mom’s will, I know how you feel about lawyers. However, maybe one of the girlfriends is a lawyer and she will try to make artists’ lives easier by changing these laws that forget the little guy. One can only hope.
    Also, I wanted to tell you how beautiful the hydrangeas (that you painted) were in you last post. Maybe they will find their way onto a new mug for spring or summer? Here’s to a wonderful soul renewing Spring! Lots of love, Nina

    • sbranch says:

      I loved your words that fate had a crush on me, that was very beautifully said and such a wonderful thought! But probably no life comes without a fight for survival, mental and otherwise! We all do what we can with what we’re given . . . not giving up being the main ingredient for success. I’m happy you liked the hydrangeas, I love painting them! Love to you Nina! And thank you!

  16. Kathleen Clark says:

    Susan, I loved this post about white space. It reminded me of a garden design class I took a few years ago. The master gardener teacher taught us that “There is something to be said for negative space in the garden.” So I guess negative space in a garden equates to white space. Since I learned that, I don’t mind seeing empty space between my plants in the garden. Thanks, Susan, for being my kindred spirit. I love all the things you love and I love your blog!

    • sbranch says:

      Yes, I used to think it was all about flowers in the garden. But while in England visiting gardens, I learned about shrubs and plant texture, spear-like plants next to tiny leaved boxwood, or yellow-lime foliage against dark green. I probably still don’t understand negative space, since it all looks positive to me! But I imagine it’s wherever the eye can relax, like a lawn? Thank you Kathleen!

  17. Colleen says:

    You are a beautiful person……though a part of me doesn’t ever want to buy anything with the name “P………. F…” on it!
    It’s important to me that you know how much I anticipate and sigh with happiness when I see you in my email. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

  18. Christine says:

    Loved this inspiring post! My mother was an artist and used lots of white space so I never thought much about it. White goes with every thing and every color!
    Looking forward to the arrival of my new mugs! I have delighted in your art for a very many years. I bought your first book shortly after it came out and have collected them all ! I have a special Susan Branch shelf! Thanks!

    You can follow and post Instagram on iPads!

    • sbranch says:

      I don’t have an iPad . . . so, but I hear there are apps for the computer I might have to look into. Thank you for your sweet words Christine!

  19. Mary/Indiana says:

    You said the Magic words, a bluebird mug! Just in time for my birthday in August!
    I am so looking forward to my Hub saying, what would you like for your Birthday?
    My reply will be, ” a pair of Susan Branch Bluebird mugs!” YIPPEE! It will make
    turning 66 all the more worthwhile! Thanks so much for all your hard work! And
    keep up the good work on the White Spaces! I enjoy every little bit of it😍😍😍

  20. Bobetta Douglas says:

    Susan,
    You have such a lovely way of turning things what most folks would consider negatives into encouraging and beautiful things. Lawsuits and chores included. Thank you for making the world kinder, sweeter and lovelier with your art and words and attitude.
    I love all the new blue in your sweet home. It’s my personal favorite and I LOVE the bluebird cup! I have been wanting one of your cups and this one definitely speaks to me. Can’t wait until it is available to purchase.

    • sbranch says:

      I love it too. Been carrying it around with me! Can’t wait to see it in the “real!” And thank you for your kind words. xoxo

  21. Janice Nelson says:

    I love your mastery of white space. I noted it with my first SB book purchase and it just felt warm and calming to me. Since the 80’s!
    I cannot wait to drink tea from my new mugs. Hope to get them soon, but I am happy being patient. They are gorgeous.
    I go to used bookstores and buy up any books of yours. They are seldom donated, but occasionally I find them. Then I give them to people who need a warm hug. I buy them new too, of course, as gifts. They are always received with great joy.
    Your blue decorating mood also is joyous. I love it. I may copy it, if okay with you.
    Just a few random thoughts from me. I am rather sad as one of our dear dogs passed away this weekend. So your blog was a warm embrace. I needed that.

    • sbranch says:

      Ohhh, I’m so sorry. Our pets are so much a part of us, always there, loving us no matter what. 😥 Thank you for your largess re: my books, and spreading them around. I rescue them myself, when I see them stranded in a yard sale or used bookstore! Feel free to blue up your house to hour heart’s content! xoxo

  22. Joanne Wood says:

    How kind of you to say No it was the ad agency. Could PF not have stepped up to the plate and saved you worlds of stress and disappointment? I’m having trouble working up much sympathy for them. Be nice if even now PF could clear the decks with an explanation for their behavior toward a young artist that you were at the time. Not good PR I say.
    Yeh Susan. Boo Hiss PF.

    • sbranch says:

      They could have, I suppose. I was never privy to what really happened, but maybe they were afraid for their reputation or something, I don’t know what the agency told them about the whole thing! I don’t know why the ad agency used so much of the Pepperidge Farm history to thwart my case, because as far as I could see, what did that have to do with anything?

  23. HM says:

    What a great post. It makes me look at Pepperidge Farm in a different light.
    I am also now looking at my own living space to see how I can streamline and create more “white space”…that uncluttered look just seems to promote a less stressed feeling!

    I love the teapot-shaped “Home Cooking” dish you designed and think it would be fabulous in a smaller size to use as a spoon rest. It already has the picture of a wooden spoon on it! Any possibility of making this dish in a “spoon rest” size?

  24. Sharrieboberry says:

    I’m glad to see you posting on Instagram. It’s my favorite social media outlet. It’s a lovely place to meet people with the same interests as you. I especially enjoy gardening pictures!

    Perennial! That’s an interesting word and I like the meaning behind it. I’ve been posting a lot of articles on perennials (the garden variety) so it made me smile. My husband actually called me a “unicorn” the other day, meaning the same thing as the “perennial” moniker. It made me smile. He said I was a rare person with a knowledge of the different social medias, but still grounded in being able to write complete sentences. ha. ha. So maybe we are all unicorns too!

    It doesn’t mean I enjoy them all. I still do not particularly like Snapchat!

  25. Linda says:

    I will never buy Pepperidge Farm raisin bread or mint Milano cookies ever again!!

    • sbranch says:

      I can’t find the PF things I used to love, “toasting white” bread, and their very dense, thin sliced white bread was delicious for cucumber sandwiches … BUT I think it wasn’t Pepperidge Farm as much as it was the advertising agency (biggest in the world, btw, no little baby startup!).

  26. Where do you find your beautiful lamp shades

    • sbranch says:

      Wherever I can. Hardest thing in the world to find. Someone should go into the lampshade business! There is a woman here on the island that made my bluebird shade, and lots more wonderful magical shades . . . I think she still does it, but she does turn 91 this year. Her shades have been available at Rainy Day on Main Street in Vineyard Haven. I was lucky enough to take a lesson from her a few years back. Made one lampshade. They’re not hard to do, but time consuming as all the good things are!

  27. Your blog always inspires

  28. Andrea Ortiz says:

    First, I love that you are interacting more on Instagram. It’s a fun quick way to connect with all the girlfriends. Second, I am so thrilled I can’t wait for the mugs! I also can’t believe the story of lawyers and lawsuits…no fun at all! I just moved and my color scheme is also white, dark brown (mainly furniture) and navy blue. It does feel calming and serene. I love the tea pot plate you are designing. I will be looking forward to it when it’s available.
    Have a beautiful day when ever you read this comment.

  29. Toni Moriarty says:

    Hi Susan…welcome to the beautiful, lovely, sunny month of May:)))
    Thank you sooo much for our newest post. Reading through, looking at all the lovely pictures, and I suddenly spotted…my mug…it’s your pattern in your hutch. It’s so beautiful! I bought it as an estate sale. I’v decided that, since I LOVE sooo many different patterns and designs, I’ll be happy with just ONE piece, hopefully a cup or mug. I keep all of my ‘favs’ on a special shelf, and take a minute to decide which one I’ll use, depending on my mood:-))) My d.h. heated up some soup in one my NOT favorite mug(arrr..!) I did manage to bite my lip and say thank you. Many blessings to you and Joe and Jack Toni from Sylvania OH xoxoxo

    • sbranch says:

      LOL, biting your lip, that’s so funny. I’m the same way, things taste better out of our favorite mugs!

  30. Jan Mercer says:

    Dear, dear Susan,

    Another blog…another chance to say “thank you”! For bringing ‘life to life’. It’s so quirky, to me, to look forward to written words…that have the power to bring a big ‘ahhh’ from the depths of my heart.

    You make my heart sing! Thank you. Once again and always.

    Thank you! Once. again.

  31. Paula Johnson says:

    As always, another luv-lee (hope I am not a plagiarizer, spelling it this way) BLOG entry, dear Susan! Thank you.
    I am so thankful for the astute art expert who determined that you had a style with special properties that should be protected, and that you are the master of the white space. You most definitely have a delightful, wonderful, fan-producing style! 🙂 (I was aghast that Pepperidge Farm took advantage of you that way~why pay another artist and not the original?)

    Every photo in this BLOG is cheerful and heart lightening. I love the way you have redone your kitchen. Don’t you feel tons lighter when you declutter and leave space to breathe? I rejoice with you.

    Thank you, again, for sharing! You continue to brighten my life.

    • sbranch says:

      TONS lighter. Like after a diet, it’s physical! (Except on the actual scale!) xoxo

  32. Judy from KC says:

    Hands off girlfriends that Santa is mine! 😉😘🎅
    Just kidding…
    Please make plenty of those I really want one …or two.
    P.S. No one can come close to your artwork ..dumb decision pepperidge farm dumb dumb smh.

    • sbranch says:

      Yup, dumb. ☺️ And me? Dumb and lucky! What a world! I will do my best to get enough of Santa! I love him too!

  33. Laurie Brandriet Keller says:

    I may never buy those delicious PF burger and hot dog buns again … the nerve! Your continued success and personal growth is your your big win. I am continually uplifted by your posts. Love to you and yours. Now I have some kitchen rug shopping to do.

  34. Julia Lawson says:

    I can’t believe that Pepperidge Farm did that! Awful! I will think twice before buying their products again. I don’t like dishonest, unscrupulous companies, and after you were so sweet to give them a copies of your book! Geez, how do people sleep at night!?

    Love the bluebird cup!

    • sbranch says:

      I did give them the books, and they were all very sweet, and I do think it was really the ad agency that was to blame, they were the ones who called and were supposedly hiring me, and then quietly walked out of the picture. I never really knew who did what, but I basically blame the agency, not so much Pepperidge Farm! Thank you Julia!!!! xoxoxo

  35. Cindy Maulin says:

    hi susan!!! People can really be contrary and unpredictable sometimes….great lessons learned in your dealings with PF and their less-than-scrupulous ad agency. I, for one, thank them all…..for they bolstered your inner fight and propelled you to strive for what is right and good….and along the way….helping you to see your talent and finding ways to share it with those who love truth and beauty…..but I digress…and hope that my fellow grocery shoppers won’t think I’ve totally lost it when them see me kissing a loaf of PF Very Thin White in the bread aisle….and it won’t be because each slice only has 40 calories!!!
    well done susan branch…….
    I think white might be my signature color so I absolutely adored this post. White has rescued me….for I have always had such a mish-mosh of early attic and late basement findings in our home décor….. it has softened Grandmas old dark telephone table, soothed our nurseries, and served as a backdrop for our old paintings and mirrors. It’s on our floor, our walls, our bed, our dinner plates. It enhances everything and goes with all….your home looks wonderful and already for spring and summer…..inviting and cozy and white!! Makes everything else crisp and clean and breathable. Love it all!!!
    “Hello” to Joe and here’s wishing you a very Happy Mother’s Day…..you extend the hand of love and friendship inspiring us to be better people…..just like a good mother does…..xoxo
    love, cindy

    • sbranch says:

      Love that “white as your signature color!!!” Yes, I think I’ll make it my spirit animal! 😊 Me too, kind of a junque-store person, I’ve hardly ever bought anything new. I think those rugs might be the first in a long time. All my other rugs were old when I bought them! Thank you darling Cindy, I’m glad we’re friends! xoxo

  36. Regina Carretta says:

    Hi Susan – I will continue to try and send my London photo’s to your email (they keep bouncing back for an unknown gremlin-like reason!!)….
    A friend sent me a link to an artist from Nova Scotia, Maud Lewis – have you heard of her? Oh my…talk about taking life, and making it color-filled and joyful under hard conditions….she lived in a tiny one room house in Canada, with her husband, and painted bright flowers, birds and butterflies on everything….she is honored at some museums, one in Nova Scotia, that re-built her tiny cabin, complete with colors that surrounded her life….the link
    lighthouse.ca/maud.html takes you to a short video, that shows the cabin……..Maud Lewis is proof of how light, color, art adds to our lives….thought you’d enjoy!
    Thanks, Regina
    Seattle WA

    • sbranch says:

      I have heard of her . . . in fact I’ve seen photos of her tiny house filled with color and obvious joy. HERE is a link to a photo …. and all that she overcame and kept her positivity! Wonderful!

      • Regina Carretta says:

        beautiful – thank you for the attachment!! I will send it on to a dear friend who told me about Maud….and now wants to visit Nova Scotia …..

        • Rhonda D. says:

          Susan, Maud Lewis was the artist that painted at the cottage of a friend of mine in the village where I grew up. She painted the shutters at all the windows. The shutters are at the museum in Halifax now, but my friend showed me photos of the cottage with the shutters at all the windows, all painted up and each one different. It was a sight to behold. They actually looked like your mugs. If you could imagine a different one of your mugs at each side of a window, only painted on a black background. The cottage is painted red. I will send you photos of the outside of the cottage (very unique indeed). You’ll be impressed. When I send the Anne of Green Gables bookmark, I will send you the photos of the cottage (but I do have to go back and look for the good ones).

          • sbranch says:

            I’m a little bit familiar with her art, so festive and powerful and happy!

          • Regina Carretta says:

            Rhonda …. thank you for sharing this! Is there any way you could send me the photo’s of the cottage>? My email is regicar@comcast.net….
            It is so nice to learn about another woman artist, Maud Lewis, who used her colors and creativity to spread joy…..
            thanks so much.

  37. Julie ( Omaha ) says:

    Hi Susan, Your mastery of the white space reminds me
    of Frank Sinatra. It’s been said his mastery of singing
    was in the “pauses” between the words he sang.

    ( shame on Pepperidge Farms 😠)

    • sbranch says:

      Biggest possible compliment ~ being compared to Frank Sinatra’s singing, true or not true ~ you have just made my day!!!! 😆 Thank you Julie for the big smile on my face!

  38. Norine M. says:

    Wow! I can’t believe a big company would do that. That is so wrong! Especially to you!! I absolutely loved this blog. Right now I am thinking of doing the exact same thing and have started in small areas. I used to think white was so boring and the older I get I realize how much I love and crave it! I’m a teacher and one of the other teachers here told me to read the latest post. So glad I did! Interesting fact: I went to the copy room one day and found a copy of a picture you’d used. I couldn’t believe it! Someone else here loved you as much as I do! I was shocked, but this particular person is the person I like most of the other teachers. Who knew we had you in common, too!! We both began following you at the very beginning, too! Such a small world. Hope you’ll be coming back to Hudson and maybe we can go together to see you!

    • sbranch says:

      I’m sure we will someday . . . and from someone who loved her teachers, thank you so much for what you do!!

  39. Robyn Brown says:

    That slamming cup! YIKES!!! You are brave to watch him do it. I would have to cuddle my mug afterwards 🙂
    I’m so glad you’re on Insta. It’s my favorite social media so now I can add you to my feed.
    Can’t wait to get my cup and see the new ones.
    ~your fellow perennial (makes me think of a flower and that’s a good thing)
    Robyn

    • sbranch says:

      I didn’t know he was going to do it, I ’bout jumped out of my chair! But after it was over I just loved the cups even better than before! Don’t try this at home!!! Instagram looks so PRETTY, that’s what I like about it already! xoxo

  40. Marsha Sega says:

    Thanks so much for showing how to oil the wood- especially the part about letting it soak in. When we redid the kitchen, I had a pull out cutting board installed. I had rubbed oil on it but never got it to look “right”. So, I’ve been putting oil on it overnight, letting it soak in, and then repeating. Its looking oh so much better. I also loved the rugs. The one by my kitchen sink needs replacing and I saw several from that company that I liked. So thanks for an enjoyable And educational read!

  41. Marilyn Young says:

    wow! So, I’m a true Perinineal huh? I rather like that, in fact better than Senior, better than old person, better than, oh well you get the point! I just called my 90 year-old sister and told her we are now Perinineals! She was most pleased and said, “Oh, that’s so funny!” That’s her pat answer! Part of knowing I’m a Perinineal is my bedroom was just painted with Benjamin Moore white paint, my bedspread, aka, cover, aka quilt, was replaced with a white one from Pottery Barn, and I’m buying and using pillows for the Season! My shutters are white, oh heck, there’s lots of white and it makes decorating my room so easy and really makes a statement! Thank you for everything because you inspire me and it shows in my humble abode! I love being old, ancient, whatever and now love my new Perinineal title, think I’ll announce it on Facebook today!

  42. Lucia Ann France-Bryant says:

    Thank you, thank you for your blogs. Your words and illustrations just make me happy! I retired last week and am looking forward to having time to finish some of my scrapbooking which started 19 years ago when my grandson was born. I have made two for my mom of the family using your calendars for background pages. Can’t wait to dig into the bin full of SB papers and stickers and get started again! The mugs are darling. Looking forward to the Santa and Bluebird! Have you though of making bathroom things??

    • sbranch says:

      Like a glass, or toothbrush holder? Or do you mean towels and towel holders? 😀 I think of making everything, but opportunity and then time are the two main things that stop me! Happy retirement Lucia! Have fun!

  43. Mikel Wagner says:

    I am so excited to hear that you will be producing the birdie cup. Swallows are my favorite! I’m also excited to see the bluebird one. I’ve been admiring the little lamb, but now think I will wait to get a birdie (my husband is back in school; I have to save my pennies for just one). Also, thank you for your Spring Cleaning inspiration! I have open shelves as well, and a stove without a hood. I’ve been lazy about taking everything down to wash, but if you can do it, I can do it 🙂 I want my kitchen to sparkle like yours!

    • sbranch says:

      You’ll love it. Shelf by shelf. Into the dishwasher, it goes much faster than you think. A tiny bit of liquid dish soap on a damp hot cloth will wash the shelves, and one little rinse and dry with paper towels will be all you need!

  44. Anne Miller says:

    Susan, I was reading about equanimity today. You have it in such a generous measure. Thank you for this blog. Our happiness, as humans, is so dependent on balance and seeing “big picture.” Your PF story models that for us. I appreciate your lack of bitterness. But, most of all I am grateful that you just keep sharing the happiness and showing us that happiness truly is a renewable resource. XO

    • sbranch says:

      Beautiful words . . . thank you again Anne . . . just making sure you see these emails, in case there were more you let me know. xoxo

  45. Anne Miller says:

    I love this blog post. Susan, I was reading about equanimity today. You have it in such a generous measure. Balance and “big picture” thinking is the way to survive. I admire your lack of bitterness over the PF experience. Thank you for modeling this for us. Most of all, thanks for showing us that happiness truly is a renewable resource.

    • sbranch says:

      Is this the comment you thought had disappeared? I’m trying to figure out what’s going on here, am I seeing things others can’t see? SO hard to explain all of this to my computer person . . . and thank you Anne for the sweet comment on “equanimity” ~ I agree, it’s a big help for getting through the trials and tribulations of life! But empowerment comes from inside, and meditation makes all blame on others go away, like the wind. Big help!

  46. Interesting story about how white space was pointed out to you – tough lessons always seem to teach us more, even later in life – but I love how it made you learn something about yourself and your art work! The santa mug is so sweet – I have always liked that painting of him! Your garden looks ready for planting and blooming (I tried to get a sneak peek last fall, but that darn dog barking….!) I always enjoy your posts! I am heading to the Cape a week after Mother’s day – I always seem to be “a day late and a dollar short” when it comes to your events! Some day…..

    • sbranch says:

      Oh yes, I glommed right onto her words. It didn’t change how I worked, but it was interesting to me to recognize something I’d never noticed about what I loved to do. I’m doing another book signing the first week of June on the Cape at Titcomb’s Bookshop. Will you be around? I don’t know the for-sure date yet … but it’s either the 6, 7, or 8th.

  47. Anne Miller says:

    Posted the second comment when the first one disappeared…..Whatever, I could spend the next hour letting you know how much I appreciate you and it still wouldn’t be adequate. Thanks, Susan.

    • sbranch says:

      Thank you Anne, I hope we’re not missing any of your comments here!

      • Anne Miller says:

        All here and thank you for your patience, Susan.

        • sbranch says:

          Yay! Just happy to hear it! So when you look from your side, they seem to disappear?

          • Anne Miller says:

            I am accustomed to seeing the waiting for moderation message….it didn’t appear. And different names and email info were showing up in the spaces above post comment….Didn’t want to be a whiny girlfriend. Internet land can be complicated. Posts get lost into the ether. This blog really touched my heart and I wanted to communicate that to you. You are so right about empowerment from within and the liberation from blame is such a release with meditation/mindfulness. Thank you, Susan

          • sbranch says:

            You aren’t whiny, you’re a big help. Because, from this side, I don’t see most of the things that others do. I DO see that different names and emails are attaching themselves to comments . . . I’ve been forwarding those to my computer guy. But I can never tell if a comment has disappeared. So thank you. Happy to have you here Anne! xoxo

  48. Kristie says:

    I FINALLY learned what Perennial actually meant a couple of weeks ago, since I’m learning all about gardening for my new house. So now hearing this new phrase of people referred to as “Perennials” makes total sense and I LOVE IT! so glad you shared that with us. I have a feeling it’ll be an inspiring idea for me, to be a perennial 😉 Also, love seeing your home all shiny and fresh looking and full of blue, my all time favorite color! My house has so much blue and it’s colorful and calming at the same time. I think it comes from growing up by the ocean.Thanks for the inspiration and sharing that good feeling of HOME. Lots of love, Kristie PS: I was so happy to get your bookmark that came with A Fine Romance and see that you had an Instagram page! I don’t use Twitter, so looking forward to some updates via Instagram 🙂 Hope you like it.

    • sbranch says:

      That is so funny because I vividly remember when I finally committed to memory the difference between a perennial and an annual. BIG important thing in the gardening world I so wanted to enter at the time! And the funny thing now is, that just wanting to know so badly, made me a perennial way back then, and you too! Nice to hear from you Kristie!

  49. Lily K says:

    What a story! And how fortunate it is that justice was served in the end–even though the time you put in and the torment you went through can hardly be compensated, let alone with merely $10,000. However, it could certainly be a lot worse. High five! Cheers for the underdog!

    Coincidentally, my husband, who is an author, had a very similar story to yours with regard to a publisher showing tremendous interest in his work, and promised to be in touch soon, but never did.

    What I really want to ask you for a long time is regarding your beautiful hand letting style. The kind that you use with quotes and fill in with colors. Would you ever consider doing a hand lettering course, or sell a printout of the 26 alphabet in both capital and small letters of the Susan Branch style???I am not sure if you have copyright issues that you are concerned about, but I would LOVE to learn how to do the Susan Branch hand lettering!!! Please consider!

    BTW, LOVE the blue bird cup!

    • sbranch says:

      Thank you Lily . . . when it comes to the lettering, I don’t think I ever paint the same “T” or “B” or any letter, twice. It’s always sort of dependent on what I’m writing and how my hand is flowing that day. Lettering has been something I was born loving. I always wonder at the chances of making a living from loving handwriting, but that’s how it has turned out! I wrote a post about the “art of handwriting” HERE in case this is something that would interest you.

      • Lily K says:

        Yes, I am familiar with the ” art of handwriting’ post which is wonderful. Thank you, Susan!

  50. Diane says:

    Hi Susan. In commenting about your beautiful blue color scheme in your kitchen, one of the girlfriends asked what color blue was on the walls. Your response was that you didn’t remember, but still loved it. At the time you painted your kitchen I was also looking for the perfect blue, so I wrote the color name down and kept it with all my paint chips. The color on your walls is Woodlawn Blue by Benjamin Moore and the color on your cabinets is Swiss Coffee, also by Benjamin Moore. I’m almost embarrassed to say I also wrote down the post in which you made your kitchen reveal complete with the names of the paint colors: September 24, 2012 “Kitchen Update, Done”. It’s one of my favorite posts.

    • sbranch says:

      That’s right! Woodlawn Blue, and Swiss Coffee and I would do it again in a minute. Thank you, and now I have them written on my desk and won’t forget again! Thank you Diane, I’m just glad someone is paying attention! 😃

  51. DeLores Johnson says:

    How terrible for a big corporation to actually “steal” from someone just starting in the industry! I wonder how those people can sleep at night!!
    I so enjoy your blogs especially now when my husband is not well and I do not get out much anymore. I have all of your books, except “Gratitude” and I plan on getting it next.

    DeLores

    • sbranch says:

      I think it happens more often than we know . . . which is one reason I wanted to write about it. Thank you DeLores!

  52. Julia says:

    Hi Susan 🙂 I’m ALL about white these days, now, more than ever. I just can’t get enough of it. The clean and crispness of it just calms my soul. What first drew me to you was your quilts and how they were like pops of color against creamy old-fashioned and comforting white. Just like the days past. White calms me. And myself, usually a pink or red girl too, have lately been drawn to blue. I have your blueberry spoon rest in my shopping cart. Ahh..I love blueberries and everything summer too. Your house looks beautiful; happy Spring to you.

  53. Fran Patten says:

    Hi there, Susan. Same thing kinda happened to me. I love animals and love writing (about them). Sent a story to a dog magazine, they changed the title, the plot but most of it was mine – then THEIRS! They accepted it so why did they change it? But…. then, I never got paid for it. Ah, well, we should feel proud if something of ours is good enough to steal, right? LOVE your blogs, pictures, paintings, etc. etc. etc.
    From Fran a new fan.

    • sbranch says:

      Terrible rotten thing, Fran, I’m so sorry! Don’t people understand these things come out of people’s actual hearts? Yes, they say stealing is the highest form of compliment. I don’t know how they came up with that. Probably the stealers thought of it! 🤔 Very nice to meet a new kindred spirit!💞

  54. Debi Hutchinson, CA says:

    This post just warmed my heart. Thank you so much.

  55. Celeste Koncul says:

    I have so much to say after reading that. First up is that years ago because of you I did all of my living room furniture in a creamy white. Through four children, pets,many moves and countless celebrations it has served me well. I still love it. Secondly I adore blue and white and my home is filled with it so I love your experimenting with blue! Lastly I am so happy to see you on Instagram. You started following me last Sunday and I felt like I had been visited by a dear friend.(I am always.in.bloom on Instagram)Happy Spring to you and yours and thanks for letting me know I am a perennial!

    • sbranch says:

      Happy to see you here Celeste! Four children plus pets, a testament, as I have always believed, white isn’t as difficult as we’ve been led to believe! Yay! Free the White! Instagram has been amazing. Feels like a party where I see lots of old friends and new ones too! Perennials rule! In more ways than one! xoxo

  56. Sharon Crane says:

    What an amazing story, Susan! Thank goodness it all worked out for you! Your style is so distinctive; so YOU!!! Thank you for another wonderful post, and Happy May to you!

  57. Eileen K. DiVietro says:

    Love the story.. not too sure I like the way PF handled it by going to another artist.. thinking about it .. that is quite a compliment.. When, I did craft shows.. many times there would be other crafters who would “borrow” another crafters idea .. of course.. no one had their ideas copy written, it was kind of a unspoken agreement between the artist. I had a few originals myself, I honestly had to say.. it must be good or someone else would not want to use it.. all is well.. Glad it was found in your favor. Your spoon will always be yours.. 🙂 When I go into the PF aisle and if I see your spoon.. I will gladly take my sharpie and print your name.. 🙂 thanks for the enlightenment .. on another note.. I love the Vineyard, but Nantucket has my heart..

    • Eileen K. DiVietro says:

      Wow.. I guess there are others who said the same thing about it being a compliment.. .. love your work..

    • Eileen K. DiVietro says:

      guess my message didn’t get through.. 🙁 sigh..

    • sbranch says:

      Thank you for the support Eileen! 😃

      • Eileen Divietro says:

        your welcome… thank you, Susan Branch. I have been an admirer of your work for so many years.. . I have just started painting again, after a long time of putting it off.. one day, my 10 year old grand daughter, who was taking art lessons, called me and said that her friend was so much better than she is.. my heart just broke.. she then proceeded to tell me about how her friend, drew exactly what the teacher drew.. and how she felt her drawings were not as good.. I told her.. no.. that is not true.. every artist draws according to what they see and their talent and gift..That even though her friend drew very well at copying the teachers work.. that she, my grand daughter, had her own style .. she understood and has done wonderful in her classes.. I share this story with you, because as a 63 year old grandma of 10 grandchildren.. this one little girl.. reminded me.. that I have my own style too… that I need to get out my paint brushes and remember it isn’t a competition.. that I needed to draw once again for me.. not because I have some wonderful friends who can paint and draw all kinds of things. I need to do it for me.. and for my little grand daughter.. Just wanted to share..my story .. hope you don’t mind.. thanks..

  58. Elaine says:

    Love all your blogs, but really loved seeing all of your spring cleaning and changing of colors. I just love your kitchen and the whole house. Could you adopt me? Was so glad you talked about the cups. I hurried to the store, but could not get the ‘In Love with Nature’ one. Got the other two. And Love, Love, Love the design for the Christmas one. How do you do it? I’m amazed at all the things you come up with. So glad you won your case against PF. How rude! Girl, keep coming up with all the wonderful things you do.

    • sbranch says:

      I’m so glad you got cups, under the wire . . . but yay! You will love them. I got one of each as samples to approve the color, had them in the house maybe two weeks, drank out of them every day, could never pick a favorite, but then two of my girlfriends had birthdays so I thought, how perfect, and gave two of them away, and have missed them ever since!!! Drinking out of the other one right now . . . Can’t wait till the rest of them get here! Thank you Elaine, wonderful to hear from you!

  59. Laural Wood says:

    Just bought a loaf of PF garlic bread…it will be my last.
    Love to hear about your spring cleaning, it inspires me. 👩‍💻

  60. Tina Mandeville says:

    Hi, Susan!

    Lots of wonderful findings in this blog, but I am going to have to come back and read…I mean, after that Pepperidge Farm thingy, well….I cannot believe that happened! I can’t even concentrate on all the other lovliness right now! Geesh! That is C-R-A-Z-Y!!!

    • sbranch says:

      It was, but luckily it was a long time ago … and it was mostly the ad agency’s fault, I think, not so much Pepperidge Farm’s.

  61. Regina Carretta says:

    FYI – gremlin alert – blog posts are indeed disappearing once again ….

  62. Jan Davidson says:

    Have a very happy month of May! Your chair pads would look pretty in yellow and white check. I love the bluebird cup. I also collect strawberry mugs and would love to see one that you would design! We call our place strawberry hill because we have wild strawberries growing here. ❤️🍓Love strawberry hill.

    • sbranch says:

      Wonderful … recipe for strawberry shortcake on a mug would be cute!

      • pat addison (cave junction, OR) says:

        I love that idea, sounds yummy!! I love strawberries well the scent as I am not supposed to eat them as I am allergic to them, but every now and then I have a berry or 2 with some whipped cream… might as well live it up even a little. LOL!!! 🙂

  63. Jan Davidspn says:

    Just checking to see if this post comes through!

  64. Judy Young says:

    Beautiful post Susan as always! I have a few ideas for new mugs for you….A Fine Romance Mug; A Fairy Tale Girl Mug; a mug with your favorite books on it; a “kitchen garden or herb garden” mug; a mug with kitchen items on it such as a bowl, a wooden spoon, a rolling pin, a tea towel, etc. I would especially like to see a mug with blue and white gingham on it, maybe as a border around the top and bottom and blue flowers in between. Looking forward to seeing all your designs as they emerge. Captivating, all of them!!

  65. Dd says:

    I was wondering why u weren’t on Instagram. It seems made for you.

    • sbranch says:

      Now that I’m there, I can’t agree more. It’s just been a matter of time, I’ve been busy with writing books and could use a few more hours in the day!!!

  66. Elizabeth says:

    What beautiful blues! My Husband and I have a lot of blue and white China – English and Dutch Delft! 🙂 * Bone China is just so wonderful! * Instagram can also be done, I believe, on an i-Pad (I don’t own one but my Mother does) as it takes pictures. God bless you! it’s Wonderful to have the Month of May!!!

  67. Eileen says:

    Love the story..love reading the post

    • sbranch says:

      Thank you Eileen . . . is this one of the comments you thought was missing? Trying to put things together to tell my computer person what we see going on here . . . Thank you!

  68. Eileen says:

    Hi, love the story…reading your book Isle of Dreams.. love Martha’s Vineyard…Nantucket really has my heart…love seeing the new things your creating..

  69. Eileen Divietro says:

    I must be doing something wrong .. when i post on here.. it always disappears.. First it said it was being moderated.. now.. nothing.. oh well.. nothing gained nothing loss.. I enjoy the blog anyway.. just a little discouraged.. 🙁 love your artwork.. and your story..

    • sbranch says:

      There have been three I’ve seen so far . . . hopefully these are all of your comments. Now for us to understand why they look like they are missing ? ? ? I’m so sorry, these gremlins need to you! And thank you for the kind comments!

      • Eileen Divietro says:

        I just sent one more message .. hope you don’t mind.. .. I don’t know .. it sure did seem like there was some kind of kink in the message system.. it would show up once.. even one time someone named DD and her email address came up on my email line.. just thought I would share to help your techie figure out what is going on.. thank you.. 🙂 you made my day.. 🙂

  70. Joanne says:

    I am so happy I read this today. It is EXACTLY what I needed! Thank you for sharing your long ago story – yikes! There is no doubt your style is recognizable now! 😉 I have been stumped mid- house touch up, and creatively, as well, and your explanation of white space has helped me tremendously and explains so much about color, spaces, and photograpy that I’m attracted to and didn’t understand why! Now I must turn off the bird song and get on with my day! 🙂 ps. I’m definitely a perennial! Love it. Have a wonderful day, Susan.

  71. pat addison (cave junction, OR) says:

    Good morning Susan, Girlfriends, its a lovely morning here today, cool but warming up ( we expect to go up to 89 degrees today and tomorrow), a good excuse to open up the windows and air out the house. the hens are clucking happily over their morning snack of leftover noodles and tater tots and salad fixings. and for once Reuben is not being chased around the pen by the ducks… wonder what happened there??? we are also expecting the rumblings of thunderstorms tomorrow and Friday, I love listening to the rumble of thunder in the distance, then I get my rocker and sit on the porch and watch the storm. so I will add that to the list of sounds from around the home, the distant rumble of thunder, the pitter patter of rain falling on the porch and of course for those sunny days, the lazy buzzzzz of bumblebees hovering over clover or the flowers out in the tall grass. I also love listening to the jays carry on, squawking over a peanut or some feed left out for them and the squirrels. I cannot imagine a day without those sounds, so life here in the rural country is good, a bit rough at times but good. now I have to figure out what to fix for dinner since it is going to be warm the next couple of days… maybe some chicken legs to BBQ or burgers. time to go finish up the spring cleaning, I have some throw rugs that need to be cleaned and aired and I may just go to the local department store in search of new fresh, light curtains for the spring and summer in the living room and kitchen. something bright and sunny perhaps. also oil the wooden spoons and the kitchen table, it will absorb pretty well today with it being so warm, may even take the kitties out for an ice cream cone.. they will love that!!! have a great day everyone, enjoy the day… love much, laugh often and live well. hugs……. 🙂

  72. Sandra says:

    Just loved reading your latest letter to us…loved the pictures of your pottery on the dresser and in the dishwasher..its all so precious..as will be those wonderful mugs…I am trying to get fringes in the states to bring them over for me to the uk….the designs are so good Susan
    Your art is unique and truly perennial…as are we all
    God bless you both and your kitty…bluebells are out here in the uk. So blue is the perfect colour for May… Sandrax

    • sbranch says:

      Bluebells! I hope we can be there to see them next year! Happy Spring Sandra!

    • Judy Young says:

      I have fond memories of my childhood growing up in England, in Sussex and the bluebells carpeting the woods every spring is my favorite (along with my family of course)! But, there is really nothing that I have seen since and I am almost 70 years old, to match the stunning beauty and color of English bluebells. I used to love to run through them!

      • sbranch says:

        I’ve never seen anything like it either. You have to see it to believe it! It’s a little like when I was young, I would see photos of New England fall colors and think the photographers put colored paper over the camera lens to take the pictures, like it couldn’t be real. I felt the same thing about the bluebells, how could the photos be true? But they are!

  73. Vicki says:

    Very much looking forward to new cups and dishes.

    I particularly love the art & photos with this post.

    And to think of white again as a great de-stressor and instead an oasis of calm.

    It’s just that my husband and my dog play havoc with white fabric when it comes to sitting on chairs and sofa!

    Hope you’re enjoying May, Susan. Thanks for writing to all of us.

    • sbranch says:

      Your name is correct, your comment is here, I’m not sure, still looking, Vicki!

  74. V. Entrekin says:

    Susan, I don’t know what’s going on, but every time I try to comment, I get wiped out and my name comes up with somebody else’s name, like this time is Eileen Divietro and it publishes her email address which isn’t the best thing. I’m so confused and commented about it on the last post of yours, too. Don’t mean to trouble you but I think it’s a breach. I’ll keep investigating on my end. But, so far, no ready explanation. From girlfriend/fan Vicki in California (PS: I may have to start writing you snail mail letters instead!)

    • sbranch says:

      It’s not a breach! LOL, Maybe it’s wikileaks! We are so interesting! But really, no, it’s something going on at WordPress. Some tweak in the system. All the comments seem to be coming up. But don’t worry, we have someone looking at it, and thank you for letting me know! 💞

    • Eileen Divietro says:

      yep.. I have had other people email address showing up also.. 🙁 .. and I love wordpress.. I can’t believe they are having issues.. I use them all the time for my blog.. sorry V. Entrekin that you saw my email address.. I know it isn’t suppose to show up.. thanks for saying something 🙂

      • Vicki says:

        You probably won’t see this all these days later, Eileen, but your email address is safe with me; promise!

  75. sylvia in seattle says:

    Thanks to Regina, my fellow Seattleite for mentioning Maud Lewis and you for the link Susan. How charming is her little house?. I’m going to look her up some more. Hope the gremlins get sorted out.

  76. ~valerie~ says:

    Dear Susan,
    My D-I-L has a unique style of handwriting and she is selling some of her art on etsy. (www.etsy.com/shop/GoldenPaisley#about) (you can edit that out, don’t mean to advertise for her, just in case you want to see it) She has noticed that some people are stealing her style and also selling on the same site! She does notify them.
    I have tried my hand at handwriting out some recipes – It takes a lot of time and patience! Too much work for me.
    I have not read thru all of the posts to see if anyone has asked this question – Is it ok to pin some of your work? I have a pinterest account and a board with your name on it. I only pin things that are already online. I do not take photos of your art from a book and then pin. If it is not ok, I will remove it.
    Thank you for sharing your life moments with us.

    • sbranch says:

      If you wouldn’t mind linking to my web address, that would be really nice. I know people love Pinterest, and there’s tons of my art and photos there, but I kind of wish it wasn’t around . . . I really have no say about my art going places. Google Images helps itself too. I just hope my website address stays with my art, but there’s no controlling the Internet! You are a doll to ask! Hardly anyone else ever does!

      • ~valerie~ says:

        Thank you for replying. I will make sure that it all links back to you. It’ll take awhile, but I will get it done. I actually prefer the hand held, old fashioned, page turning method of reading, but there are times when I’m looking for something in a hurry and the internet is handy for that. ~v~

  77. Donna Wheeler says:

    Every one of your posts to us are enlivening, and never more glorious than your delight with Spring housecleaning. Today I’m invigorated and inspired to go with more whitespace in my quilts; to open wide the patio slider to listen to the returnng birds. This special story from you makes me happy that I’m an 82-year-old Perennial!

  78. Dominique says:

    What a lovely post…but…oh my gosh, Susan! I am lingering over the PF story you shared. My perception of them has changed as well. Theft should not be the norm among advertising agencies. That is just so wrong. And someone from a reputable museum backed their argument? White spaces are mindful spaces. I am furious with them on your behalf!

    • sbranch says:

      They called in the museum person, and that’s just what she said on the stand. It didn’t seem to help them much, but I sure liked it!

  79. Gmapat says:

    Love white too, and that whole white space concept will inspire me to de-clutter also!
    You put fall colors next to the blue rug. One of the prettiest quilts I ever saw was a maple leaf pattern in all the fall leaf colors and the background was blue. How appropriate it is because all the fall trees are glowing against a crisp blue sky every autumn. So much better than the tan colors. I so love your writings and the many, many pictures you so generously share with us. 😍👏🏻💝gmapat

  80. Hillaire Gallagher says:

    Oh, Susan,
    Thank you for this post. PF…..you have some chops going after them. It makes you wonder what happened to ethics in business.
    I enjoyed your springing cleaning especially the new “blue”.
    You always inspire me too, to get the house in order.
    Be well love to all….
    Hillaire

  81. Joy Pence from Ohio says:

    Good morning Sweet Sue! I love, love your blue kitchen. I could see blue and white checked chair pads in your kitchen. Would complete the look. I just love playing house, this post so makes me want to start spring cleaning!! And please don’t worry about turning 70, you are a fun loving, energetic, and a beautiful soul. You accomplish more than most 50 year olds! Have a wonderful day. xoxo

  82. Andi Geary says:

    Wow you have been busy spring cleaning and getting the house mended! Love the pictures of your home and the one of kitty girl brought a tear to my eye 🙁 sending Hugs… Well the Christmas mugs what can I say I LOVE them!

    Just a thought could you not have your blogs printed to make a book? I would buy them that’s for sure!! You and the blog make me smile, you and Joe take care Live Life!!

    Andi Geary England 🙂 xx

    • sbranch says:

      I’d love to do that, but it would take someone who knows what they are doing to do that, I’m not sure I’m that person. Plus, it would be a very thick book! We’re coming up on my 6th or 7th year of blogging!

  83. Charissa says:

    OMG OMG OMG!!! SB mug, plates and other dishes!! OH MY!!! I am positively giddy!!! You always make EXACTLY what I want. AND you make everything so beautiful, cute, and cozy. Dying for preorder over here:) Susan , they are really gorgeous! OMG OMG OMG:):):)

    I do not think I can ever eat a PF cookie ever again! Even it was their stupid ad agency (wish I could boycott them somehow). I googled that ad. What nerve!!! The copycats!!! I am so proud of you. What an inspiration!!! You are my hero! NY Times Best Selling Author, Susan Branch, MASTER of White Space, Winner of the Trial of the Century, the Bestest Girlfriend Ever, and Best Blogger in the World! I could go on and on. Thank you again for providing endless inspiration and good things in my life! xoxoxo

    Do you have any other cool titles/ accolades we don’t know about? I think I saw something about James Beard award. I was so happy for you:)

    • sbranch says:

      LOL! You are so funny Charissa, I need to write all that down! 😊 Too sweet! XOXOXO

  84. Debbie Boerger says:

    Going to try this again….first try disappeared.

    Way back in 1967, a commercial art prof offered to get me a job at a big ad agency in New York. I declined, as I’d realized that not only was I a “last minute” gal when given a project…especially something that my heart was not into.
    I can’t help wondering what my 18 year old self would have done had I been handed the work of another artist to copy without permission. I’d like to think I would have snapped my pencil in half and stormed out on the streets of NYC.

    All worked for the best, as I stayed in Mississippi, lived with my very best girlfriend, taught in a Title l art program there and became even more of a crusader for voting rights.
    I met my first husband in Jackson, ended up in Tampa, where we went our separate ways….And I Met Tom!!! Got another degree while working and began teaching.

    Isn’t that a long way to say how much I loved teaching “Cursive”? Other than teaching science, that was my favorite thing. As it was for the children. “When can we learn “real writing”? Even though we may not use it much anymore, it was fabulous for developing those fine motor skills. And I taught it my own way, which we could do back in those days of teachers being allowed to make decisions.
    Loved your handwriting blog. Thank you, Susan. for everything wonderful!!
    Too mushy? And thank you, Girlfriends for your wonderful posts!!!

    Debbie in Tampa…..for about another week

    • sbranch says:

      I agree, my teachers were amazingly creative. I think when you take the creativity out of ANY job it ruins it for the people who have to do it!

  85. CO Carol says:

    Hi Susan,
    I so enjoyed this post, they always take me away to another place, a dreamy one, this one in particular. And, I absolutely love your Instagram pics – what a visual!! Thank you for always doing what you do best, and sharing it with us, life lessons included.

  86. Kathy Hughes says:

    Susan, hope you got my reply about the tea pot trivet. I quickly tried to go through the over 600 comments looking but never saw it. I suggested the pink rose from the May mini calendar to decorate it, but absolutely anything you do will be perfect. I was just thinking that so many tea pots already have decoration on them that a very simple trivet (but identifiable as Susan Branch) would not clash with most. Thanks for all you do to make the Girlfriends have wonderful days!

    • sbranch says:

      Yes, I did, it’s right toward the bottom (I think!). I like your idea, I’ll look and see what they have! xoxo

  87. Mary S. says:

    I loved this post! And I’m loving the Instagram posts.
    I’m hoping a “California” cup is in the future! Golden poppies, mountains, beaches…

  88. Loved this post, because, well blue is my favorite color; I ordered all three mugs and CANNOT WAIT; I have a thing for birds (there is one in my shop logo); and I love Dash and Albert rugs! So too many favorite things in one post! I followed you on Instagram a while back and it has been fun to see you posting!

  89. JoyceG says:

    I haven’t read through the hundreds of comments that came before mine, but as a long time collector of snowman mugs (I use a different one every day in December!), I would love if you would consider a snowman scene for one of your next mug creations. I’m excited to see that you are on Instagram now – it seems to be “the place” these days to see what’s going on! And it’s so easy to post! Off now to “follow” you……

    • sbranch says:

      Yes, I love it! Snowman idea is wonderful! I have Santa for this Christmas, so maybe a snowman for next year?

  90. Frances Fowler says:

    I’ve always noticed your use of white — it’s your trademark! It’s always glossed letters, baskets, peppermint for Christmas recipes, and you had to go through all that awful court drama because Pepperidge Farm, liars that they are with their sweet, elderly gent telling us that “Pepperidge Farm remembers”. Liar, liar, loaves of bread of fire, I’ll never buy anything from them again. Besides (she retorted), my homemade white bread is better! Right, then….I’m sure that will hurt their huge conglomerate feelings. Cheating bullies! Jack would’ve swatted a paw at them!

    • sbranch says:

      It felt pretty bad at the time, I have to say, because didn’t we all love old-fashioned and delicious Pepperidge Farm? And really, it was more the fault of the ad agency . . . at least that’s what I think. I’m not so sure Pepperidge Farm knew what that agency did until this whole law suit began!

  91. Charissa says:

    hmm still gremlins on the website i think as the comment i left has disappeared and it now says my comment is frances fowlers as of 5 pm central 5/4/2017

  92. Janeen Breyman says:

    My son, who will be 39 this year told me that his generation has been called the Oregon Trail generation after the educational video game. I bought that game for him to play as well as the updated version for his siblings.

    • sbranch says:

      Wow. That’s an interesting name, very green. I still think he might wish to be a Perennial sooner or later!

  93. Jaclyn Krueger says:

    “A master of the white space.” And there you have it…the new title for your NEXT book…it has so many possibilities, all of which you artfully will employe…can’t wait!

  94. Kathryn Phenix says:

    Love your “white space” story but also I’m thrilled that you chose blue for your “new” decor. Blue has always been my favorite color. Jack’s choice of rug design is spot on. Cats are so clever. Of course, my cat, Chuck has blue eyes! Told you I like blue. Happy May!

  95. Linda G. says:

    Dear Susan: could you provide any tips on how you prevent Jack from scratching your lovely white furniture. I know he is an indoor cat so their must be some tricks. My tiger striped marmalade cat is indoor only and he has ruined a few pieces of furniture with his scratching–even though he has indoor scratching posts!

    • sbranch says:

      We had a terrible time with other kitties, especially, I have to say, Girl Kitty . . . she was pretty bad on the furniture (but we loved her more than the sofa so we lived through it) ~ but we finally learned and the very day we brought Jack home, a tall, strong (not wobbly because they won’t use it) scratching post went up. In the past we waited too long, because kitties learn young, and by the time we did it, it was too late, and none of our other kitties went near those posts. We thought they didn’t work! And we were lucky because Jack took to it like a duck to water, thank goodness. I have heard you can use removable double-sided tape to put on the furniture they have grown attached to. I never tried it though. Try Googling it, all information in the world is there somewhere!

  96. Victoria Miller says:

    Oh, shame on those Pepperidge Farm People. SHAME, SHAME, SHAME! After reading that, I think the Musica should have been that wonderful old song, “Who’s Got the Last Laugh Now.” However, you have so much joy and love and light and laughter in your life, and your style is most definitely YOUR STYLE! Which is delightful and heartwarming and cheering. Thank you for sharing your life and all the joy and beauty and fun!

    • sbranch says:

      Thank you back Victoria! I feel so lucky to have this opportunity to connect with everyone!

  97. janice says:

    What a great story about PF. You were very brave to stand up for yourself and go to court. I don’t know if I would have had the ability. I would have felt the way you did about your work, but not sure if I could have acted on it and then let it go. Bravo. White space has a whole new meaning for me.

    • sbranch says:

      I was young and no cynicism had sneaked into me at the time, I believed that I was right, so I thought that was all that was necessary. Not sure what I would do if it happened today, it would be awful if it did!

  98. Carla Ludwig says:

    LOVE your blue Susan! Also, wanted to tell you how I am enjoying your Instagram posts……Instagram has been my “happy place”, such beautiful pics and great inspiration. I can’t wait to see all of your new designs. Have a beautiful weekend!

    • sbranch says:

      It is a happy place, I totally agree! Kids and flowers and people making things, gorgeous quilts and baby goats and big cakes and everything good in life!

  99. Susan Morgon ( Ohio gal from SoCal ) says:

    Mugs with feet! Oh, what a hoot! I actually commented on the latest blog before backtracking here. And guess what I found? My husband’s birthday present to me in August, or thereabouts, if it arrives when you expect it to. That gorgeous bird cup! I just knew there would be another coming along that I would love, since I think I might be too late for the others. It’s perfect! Santa will be a must – have too. Your work just charms the heart 💕

  100. Nancy says:

    Love, love, love your blog entries. And even more, that you are on Instagram. May I ask what type of oil you use on your table. I’ve read/heard it mentioned several times but the information is always so vague. Plus, I imagine oil on everything and being a nightmare of a mess. Does it all soak in leaving no oily residue whatsoever? Just curious as I have several older pieces of solid, well built wood tables. I’d like to pretty them up but I’m apprehensive.

    Thanks, Susan, for the lovely blogs that always leave me with a smile and set my mind stirring with memories and possibilities.

    • sbranch says:

      It’s only for unfinished wood … otherwise it won’t soak in. Use it for wooden cooking spoons and cutting boards, and I put it on our kitchen table because it has no finish. Yes, it all soaks in. It’s mineral oil, that’s the real name for it, best because it’s food safe and it doesn’t go rancid. You get it at the drug store. Hope this helps Nancy!

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