Another beautiful day in Paradise and lots to share in celebration of the good old Summertime! And a drawing-winner too! Plus MUSICA! 
From the land of swaying flowers and fat bumblebees . . .
I bring you the glory of summer . . . starting with ripe tomatoes . . .
This was our first taste, one of our favorite days of every summer, the ripening, the picking, and the eating of the first tomato . . . we shared it, very simple, sourdough toast, mayonnaise, sweet, vine-ripened, still-warm-from-the-garden tomato, salt & pepper … heavenly! Summer joy.
Now this is the part of summer I could really live without. We get humidity sometimes (that’s not rain out there), and it’s so heavy and thick, you actually have to chew it before you can breathe it.
This is how I feel on those days. Hideously inelegant.
So, I turn on the air conditioner, and read in my chair with Jack, my kitty, next to me, while the sun flitters over me, and count my many blessings.
Because soon . . . these summer days will just be a memory . . . even on our walk, the leaves are starting to show the strain of having to hang around for much longer . . . 🍂
So we are intent on getting everything out of these summer days possible. This is my great-niece Maggie who came to visit … she’s nine ~ she would say hello, but she’s busy. We loved enjoying a little bit of summer through her eyes!
And my here’s grand-nephew Wyler… he’s 7 . . .
This is Eliza, who just turned 13 … Look how brave they are… jumping off this bridge is a right of passage in a Vineyard summer. I don’t think I would do it, but they all did! Their parents too!
There goes Eliza!
Family came to visit! From New Hampshire, my niece Jess, her husband Cory, and their two girls … and from Durango, Colorado, my nephew Ben, and his wife Paige, and their two boys.💞
And so it was . . . we did all the Vineyard things . . . like clamming … this is Paige, married to my nephew Ben, with their youngest son, Beckett, who’s four ~ he’s got clams!
This is Ben, Ben is Paige’s husband, my nephew, and Jess’s brother …😘
Ben and Jess are the children of my brother, Jim. This picture of Jim and Ben has hung on my wall for years, I LOVE it. Colorado, with snow on the high mountains and wild flowers under their feet, and two good boys. Have I confused you enough name-wise? Well, there will not be a test, ignore everything . . .
That’s Jim, next to me (with rollers in my hair) … back row on right… closest to me in age, he was my partner in crime crowing up … 💖
So, it was wonderful to have his children here . . . this is Jessica, Jim’s daughter, Ben’s sister, my niece, and the mother of these two . . . .❤️
. . .Eliza and Maggie, who’s father, Cory, you’ll meet in a moment.
There he is, in the back row, in pink with the hat on! Here they all are. Lovely people! So much fun!
They brought home lots of clams and Uncle Joe showed the boys how to shuck them. Fascinating!
Then Joe taught them how to make stuffed clams (kind of lost the boys here, but definitely not the rest of us!).
I showed them how to make my Dad’s famous garlic bread (their great-grandfather, hard to believe!). Almost ready for the broiler! (P.66 the new Heart of the Home!)
Of course we had the Island food of choice . . .
Bowls full of steaming lobsters . . . Paige demonstrates, while her son,
Brave Beckett, touches lobster (of course, already cooked).
And me and Jess, we’re just happy!
We ate outside every night. Paper plates, candles, and twinkle lights! Corn on the cob rolled in the butter stick, watermelon chunks, hot bread, crispy potato pancakes, fresh swordfish and juicy pink steak. We had it all!
If you’re happy and you know it, say “Rawr,” and show us your watermelon!
My backyard never looks like this. Ever ever.
But I liked it. They told me this was a “rocket ship to the moon!” Looks pretty good! Excellent imagination and creativity! They got an A!
Inside was a human sacrifice. Somebody had to do it. We’re talking science here, the furtherment of mankind. Three cheers for Beckett!
And here? The proud sisters of Mission Control, Eliza and Maggie.
The first morning, while everyone was still asleep, I peeked out my upstairs bedroom window like I always do to see what the weather is like, and was shocked! Where was I? What’s all that stuff on the lawn? Blink-blink. This can’t be my house!
I went downstairs to find the victim taking his revenge on the girls of Mission Control …
Off we go on an Island tour in the Fine Romance Van! Turn up the MUSICA! Because
We drove all over, had lunch with a fabulous view at the Aquinnah Shop above the Gay Head Cliffs. (That man over there, standing, wearing the hat, really liked us!)
And I can see why . . . Ahhh, family!
Here comes the french fry thief …
This is where we were eating. Very good view from the roof for the french fry thieves. See the three jars down there, on the left on the railing?
Sun tea. My kind of restaurant.
Here we are in Menemsha (where Jaws was filmed) … walking the jetty, looking at the boats …
Joe got us a plate of ice-cold oysters to share . . . (Jess and Cory again, who run five miles a day or so, even in the humidity!).
Delicious! Icy, shivery, like liquid silver! (If you’ve never had them, don’t worry, they taste MUCH better than they look!)
Here we are, Paige, Joe, Cory, Ben, Beckett, and me … al fresco eating at it’s very best!
While Maggie and Eliza looked for buried treasure . . .
. . .and found it, tiny little shells and beach glass, the best sort of Island souvenirs. (Love the color on Eliza’s nails!)
One day we were looking for these two…found them leaning against the washer and dryer in the pantry. Why? We don’t know . . . Wyler’s T-shirt says “Shark Proof.”
Little pile of sweetness ~ Cousins! Maggie, on the right, is going to be a writer. She was telling me about the Warrior book series she’s been reading (by Erin Hunter) … all the characters are kitties in clans (such as Riverclan or Thunderclan), with names like Tigerstar and Squirrelflight. She was SO excited and animated telling me about these stories, now I want to read them!
We so enjoyed every moment with them . . . and then as quickly as they came, it was over, poof! and off they went … but the memories, along with summer, stayed …
So we went looking for some more
Freshest air in the world, salty, windy, lovely sound of the waves . . .
We went to visit Joe’s niece Jennifer and her husband Mark … they live in New York, but they’ve rented this “camp” by the water every summer for years. We had gazpacho (con tomatoes!), salad, and quiche! When I see Jen, I think of this quote . . . ❤️
You get to their house by a very (very!) long dirt road through the woods and scrub oak . . .
The house is unfinished inside, has no insulation, it’s the opposite of fancy, but really comfortable, perfect for reading and dreaming . . . this is the view from the kitchen window . . . there’s nothing out there but the wind . . . I could barely keep my eyes open!
It was a perfect day for a walk on South Beach ~ that’s Mark and me and Jen, Joe has the camera.
Looking back from the beach to the house …
Can you picture yourself here? Deep breath of ocean air, feeling drowsy? . . . ommmm . . . .
Sometimes people ask me what to do when they come to Martha’s Vineyard, and honestly, this is more or less it. You listen to the screen door slam. It’s the opposite of what to do, it’s more like how to be!
And so, you know Girlfriends, it’s time . . . you have been so patient . . . but Vanna has arrived in all her glory . . . and it’s time to give away the luv-lee journal of Beatrix Potter.
And my story of finding her in the English Countryside, at the end of a very long path I began to walk when I was around 22.
Don’t forget, you lucky winner, about the secret that’s hiding in the back of the Beatrix book! SO, who shall it be darling Vanna? I want you to know, Vanna’s toenails are 
polished gold, they’re shiny, like earrings, and she is now perched, toes curled and clutching the edge, on top of my art table. Now she’s up, graceful as a swan, and over, and INTO the vat she dives, with all your names, swirling down and down and down . . . scissor-kicking her way to the bottom, a whirlwind of papers, flying around and through the air now . . . and . . . here . . . she . . . comes . . . clutching one fluttery piece of paper, and now, handing it to me . . . the winner of our luv-lee little giveaway, chosen especially by Vanna from over 2,000 entries from all of you darling kindred spirits, is YOU, dear KERRIE FOLEY, (but only if you promise not to DIE if you win, like you said you would do in your comment!). Because you just did win!
CONGRATULATIONS, KERRIE! I’ll email you; you can reply with your address ~ I’ll sign both of your books and pop them into the mail for you.💞
AND, now it’s almost time for me to go write a new WILLARD, because by the time I’ve written it, and you receive it, it will almost be September, we will be feeling it (eeek with joy), and I have new news to share. Make sure you and the ones you love are signed up for this little bit of “All Good News” celebrating the change of season, that starts off a little like this (in case you’ve never seen it):
And, oh my goodness! Just as I was about to sign off . . . UPS pulled up outside my window, be still my beating heart … I grabbed my camera . . .
. . . and ran to the kitchen door, because I feel like I’ve been waiting forever, and now, Hooray! It’s my turn! So many of you have been writing on Twitter and Facebook to tell me you got your cups! And I’ve been whining and moaning because mine hadn’t come yet!!! But just as I was finishing this post, here they are! (Yes, three boxes, I told you I was doing my Christmas shopping!) Sorry, I was too excited to hold the camera still . . . and then I took a big time-out for the grand opening of the cups …
Ta-daaa! First box I opened turned out to be the Bluebird of Happiness. How appropriate! I love it! 
(‘Course the moment I grabbed the camera and began to run to the door, my shadow was right behind me!) What is it, what is it? A cup? Are you kidding? All this for a cup? 🙀
And then, more appropriate timing . . . the next one out was the Martha’s Vineyard cup! Then the Santa cup, and then the darling new smaller size, Autumn. Which means, I am SET! 💙
What a nice note to end on! Blessings to you all…. I hope you are loving these last lazy, crazy, hazy days of summer, these ARE the good old days! Thank you for all your sweet comments, Girlfriends. More fun for us to come soon. And now . . . I’m going to make a cup of tea! XOXOX
A cup of tea, and your beautiful illustrations and words…my favorite time. Thank you. ❤️
Love reading your blog ❤️
Susan
Thank you for your lovely, uplifting work. I have thoroughly enjoyed “Gratitude” and will continue to do so regularly. Your art breaths gratitude and contentment.
I especially love your use of such wonderful quotations. they, and you, really touch my heart.
Wishing you a wonder-filled autumn on your amazing island!
Susan T
I love your home. I especially love the kitchen. Todays modern kitchens do not appeal to me at all. You greatly inspire❤🍁🌻
Me either, so cold and empty. Need baskets of apples, dish towels, Beatrix Potter figurines, little vases of flowers, old stove, tea things, open cupboards and pretty dishes. xoxo
Thank you for showing the antique recipe boxes. Brought back memories of my Mom’s. I plan to recreate one for myself now! Love Willard and looking forward to joining you on your travels. ❤️
Reading about your summer made me feel like I was there! This was the first summer I did not have any of my 5 grandchildren here for a visit because I have been recuperating from back surgery. With the end of summer quickly approaching I have been feeling sad. The kids always referred to their visit here as “going to Camp Grammy-Papa” and I think it will be memories they will always have and hopefully cherish. Thank you for sharing your summer!!
You need to put something Grandchildren-ish on your calendar, to look forward to when you are well enough. That will help with the sadness, because this too shall pass. xoxoxoxoxoxoxo Feel better soon Naomi!
Just read Willard & so excited for another trip to England & Ireland too!! Love reading all about your adventures. Thank you Susan for sharing with all of us who will never be able to see these wonderful places.❤️
Amy
Love this season as well!
Love the Willards and your blog, such a delight with a cup of tea and good music! And most of all, I love the ordinary days the best of all <3
Dear Susan, my sister and I live far apart. We both share the love of all things Susan branch! We talk about your posts and how much we three are alike! It brings us closer together. I’d love to win anything of yours!
So excited! Sitting with a hand in kitty, Holly’s, soft fur,a cup of tea with a chill in the air, and a gorgeous sunset while reading your Willard! The story behind the recipe boxes touched my heart and I felt the possibility and anticipation of connecting with a kindred heart , such as yours, through something specially found in a treasured recipe! Can’t wait!
Susan,
I so love your art and writing. I love filling up my Susan Branch desk pad calendar with events and things I want to do. I love how you appreciate and love your life with so much passion. Thank you for sharing with us “girlfriends”.
I love reading your blog! I hope I win!
I met you in Naperville, IL about 10 yrs ago at s book signing. I used to get the Willard by
snail mail when I was in my 20’s. Now I’m the mother of 5 and making my own traditions. Thank you for the inspiration to cook, bake and garden. You’re so talented!
Mother of five! Most important job in the world! Happy to hear from you Molly!
Have loved you since the “days of old”……and thank you for every smile you have brought! (As always, am excited to see the new calendars.)
Hi Susan,
Your Willard made my day! Thank you! I plan to do a little shopping in your online store as soon as I push “post comment”. My birthday is May 11th so I am going to look into spending it with you all at the picnic in the countryside. That would be a very special 69th celebration!
Love,
Jerri Ellen Wheeler
Southport, NC
I get your posts occasionally but am usually in some kind of a hurry (why?) and look at pictures and read a bit here and there. Today I read the entire “Willard” and then came to the blog and read all of it. I live in middle America…..Kansas…..the capital city, Topeka. I am sitting outside in my screen room on a very pleasant evening.I was going to do some hand quilting on a small fall wall hanging but I got so caught up in reading everything you wrote on the 2 sites, that the quilting has gone the way side….for now. I am jealous of your up coming trip to England and Ireland. I have been to both and would love to go back. Thank you for a very enjoyable hour, or so, of reading and taking in the beautiful drawings and pictures.
Worse case scenario is that you come with us virtually, because we’ll take lots of photos for the blog…. love to have you along Sherri!
I will have my virtual bag packed with lots and lots of hand work and oh yeah, some clothing (priorities here!) ready to be there with you.
Oh, Susan, I love your blogs and your Willard. The way you write is how I think and dream.
I have your Autumn book and it is showing some signs of wear- which is a good thing. Fall is my favorite season. I was born in October and I have always loved the colors and fresh air of autumn. Next on my list is the Autumn cup to go with my book!
Thank you for all you do for your Girlfriends!
I visited Martha’s Vineyard for the first time last year–what a magical place and your art reflects the sense of it well.
Just received my first Willard and it was as much fun to read as your books! Thank you for sharing your part of the world with us! Especially the eclipse shadows! What fun to see!
I so enjoy all of your books and your beautiful handwriting which I have tried to copy but never can. Your wonderful talent ismyours alone.🙂
I love how that word morphed all by itself to say ismyours. Yes! wonderful.
I really enjoy everything you send, especially the wonderful recipes and beautiful photos of your family. I feel like I’ve visited enchanted places when I scroll down the pages. Thank you for keeping in touch!
Recipe boxes. Delightful 🎒
Gingerbread Cake Tea sounds lovely! Thanks for taking the time to share your life with us.
As always, your blog… and Willard take me away from
troubles of the world. Makes my heart sing, and inspires me, as well as reinforces my belief that a simple life, taking pleasure in creating a comfortable home, surrounding ourselves with people and things we love, finding pleasure in simple tasks… can be truly meaningful and lively. Thank you for sharing your lovely art and heartfelt words.
Susan Ste. Marie
What a treat to have Willard show up today. You are a treasure. I especially love your kitty illustrations!!
Susan, I love your blog! Such sweet sentiments and recipes and quotes. Your cat is beautiful. I have a little rescue cat named Bootsie who is black and white and just has the run of the place here in Wilmington Ohio. I would love to win your giveaway. I love the mug and the tea would be wonderful, I’m sure.
I’ve been a fan for lots of years. I would love to win!
Thank you for your kindred spirit! And beautiful post – Summer to 🍂 autumn can be sad – but then That dancing queen 👸 musica! Made me smile and laugh- girlfriends – says it all! 🌝 Moving on! Thanks for the inspiration And reminding us all to take the time to stop Amd smell the roses. No matter what time of year . ❤️😊💫
Doesn’t that Dancing Queen Video just perk up your day? Me too!
My cousin gave me a copy of Days from the Heart of the Home as a Christmas gift in 1996. I record birthdays, anniversaries and other important dates of family and friends. With 21 years of entries, seven siblings, 20 nieces and nephews and 60+ cousins, (not to mention all the friends) there isn’t a page without several names. It’s one of my favorite Susan Branch books!
All I want is a room somewhere…..”wouldn’t it be loverly”💕
I don’t know what I would do without a dose of you and yours dear lady!!! Thank you much!
I’ve read your books and love them. Not only do your books tell a story, the printing, drawings, pictures and sayings add to the feeling. I have a mug and hope to collect more.
When I was in England we went to the Lake Region and Beatrix Potter. I have books, dishes and a few figures. My Granddaughters will have them one day.
Your Joe sounds like a true kindred spirit.
I would love to win, it would make my day – no several days.
Just returned from reading Willard (with a black & white kitty on my lap) which makes my heart lighter and brighter and reminds me to be grateful. And that is why I would be ever so very grateful to win your Gratitude book!😻 Geri
Susan, just received my Autumn tea cup! I love all four tea cups: the Love Cup, the Go Green cup and the Little Things cup! They enjoy tea parties at my kitchen table with neighbors and family! I envy your trip back to Europe particularly Ireland! I’m half Irish and haven’t gotten there yet, although my youngest son and his newly wed wife went over for their honeymoon! Hope to win this wonderful drawing and enjoy more of your talents! Thank for sharing!
First time writing a comment, not really my thing…but I just turned 40 last week and started to sketch and paint for the first time because your story inspired me. My style is child-like and I was a little embarrassed by it, but my supportive artistic husband said it was very “meta,” so I think I will go with that! It seems my mind clears when I paint, a meditative time lapse occurs-just might be a sign that I’m on the right path:)
Your style is you, direct from your heart through your hand to paper, so what it is is wonderful. And I have to say, you will change as you do it more and more, as you refine and refine, and discover new little techniques that are also all your own. You are on the right path. xoxo
Forgot to say above…thank you.
You’re so welcome!
Your writing brings a sweetness and delight to life!
Dear Susan, I just read your “Willard”. I cried reading about you and your Mom singing. What a memory! I swooned over the delectable photos of treats. I learned you have designed WALLPAPER!!!! Oh my stars:-). I’m dreaming of England and tea with you and your darling Joe and so many other like-minded souls from around the World! I lingered over every sweet word and charming quote and lovely illustration. Thank you a thousand times! Andrea
Thank you back Andrea … I love my sweet Girlfriends. Reading these comments puts a song in my heart! xoxo
You remind me to do what I love and to love what I do!
I have loved reading your books! I read your delightful A Fine Romance three times and dreamed of going to England. Finally I used my passport for the very first time last summer
And visited London with my daughter and granddaughter in celebration of her high school
Graduation! We happened to be there for the Queen’s Birthday Parade and actually did see
The Queen and her family ride by in the carriages and riding horses! We were so lucky to go to tea at Kensington Palace and see the wonderful gardens among all of the other places we visited. We loved getting to spend a day out in the Cotswolds. It was a most wonderful and memorable trip.
You and I enjoy lots of the same things – drinking tea, loving nature, feeding the birds, finding joy in many little special things, our country, and Autumn which has always been my very favorite Season of the year!
Someday I hope to visit The New England states. I have always wanted to see that part of the country. It sounds so beautiful.
Please keep writing and painting and quoting the wonderful sayings and songs as well as including the wonderful photos!
Happy you made it to England Diane, and I will keep on as long as I can, as close to forever as I can manage! xoxo
Been under the weather the past two days, reading your latest Willard was a dose of “just what the doctor ordered!” ❤️ Thank you Susan!
Feel better soon Jennifer!
I ❤️ Susan Branch! Reading the Willard is comforting and fun, like meeting for your best friend for coffee and catch up! Your paintings, and quotes, songs and your warm sentiments of love and encouragement are why I am a Girlfriend for life. Life does not seem so harsh and worrisome after I read my Willard. Thank you so much, I needed that! 😊❤️
Thank you for sharing! The Willard is so enjoyable to read… your art and photos make me smile. Cheers!
Dear Susan: I love all that you do, all that you say, all that you are!
We are taking our first trip from AZ to Cape cod in mid September …. can you recommend any great restaurants or places of interest that we should not miss while there?
Thanks, judy
It’s a beautiful time of year for your trip! There’s a lot to do on the cape, Check with the chamber of commerce to get an overview of what your interests are. Rt 6A used to be our favorite for antiques … I think it’s still good, but it’s been a while since Joe and I were over there …our newest favorite restaurant is Bucatino in North Falmouth. But there’s a lot!
Summer had gone by so fast, but wonderful autumn is just around the corner. Willard was much fun reading, and loved looking at your darling recipe boxes.
As always, thank you, Susan! I’m doing as you suggest, I’m celebrating my blessings!❤️
I saw Willard in my inbox and saved it for when I needed cheering up. Dropped of my first-born at college and decided now, while the house is too quiet, is the perfect time. Thank you for a lovely reminder of the many blessings we can find in every day!
Thank you for reminding us to pause and breathe in beauty.
Cest magnifique! Luv it ALL! ENTER ME IN YER CONTEST, PULLLLEEEESE! Tasha Tudor, corgies, cats! Beatrix Potter, da Woods.Musica, Musica…OO la la! Kindred espiritu du corps, “n all that!” Danka! Carol.
I don’t think my comment was posted yesterday, so I’ll try again. Thank you so much for sending out Willard I just love it, it always puts me in a good mood and bring all good memories right back.Old movies homebaked goods and a lovely cup of tea, who could ask for anything more, well perhabs to see you in England next year, one can only dream !!!!
Hi Susan, I just love reading anything you write or draw. Thank you for so much happiness you bring me. Would love to win!!
I was so thrilled to receive my Willard in my inbox today! I was just thinking of you, and I was going to pick up my copy of “Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams” to continue reading it (I’m on page 244 and don’t want it to end!), when I just had this feeling to check my emails–and there you were! It made me so happy to hear from you! I have been very low about all that is happening in our country, and then I was reminded at the beginning of your newsletter of one of my favorite passages, too, from Charles Dickens–who I love so!–from his masterpiece “Tale of Two Cities,” and it was an instant balm to my soul. Thank you so much, Susan, for reminding me of these amazing words from one of the greatest writers who has ever put pen to paper. But, alas, when I went to order your lovely Autumn mug, I was so sad to see that it is no longer available. Talk about a rollercoaster of emotions! I get so homesick for autumn every year living here in Florida as I do, and so I had my heart set on your mug so very much to bring me joy in the autumnal weeks to come! Then I read that you would be giving away this very mug with some of your other beauties and my heart thrilled once more! I will be keeping my fingers and toes crossed in the hope that I should be so very lucky–I have never won anything, but I am hoping this may be the time!
I adore that too Dianne and was determined to have it in this Willard, It was the best of times . . . just perfection on the page. No more Autumn mugs????? I have to go look, that’s shocking to me! I’m so sorry, but my fingers and toes are crossed for you too!
Susan, thanks for being YOU! Thanks for sharing all life’s delights & treasures & dreams that can & do come true! Your Willards just boost the spirit & I will never miss another shadow!
And P.S. I am a huge Beatrix Potter fan & lover of all things British despite having grown up in the Caribbean, Barbados, in fact….. can you tell I’m a rambler too??!! With very best wishes & huge appreciation of all that you share x
Dear Susan: Pick me please for your giveaway! And upon reading your blog today with all the lovely quotes, I think you need a line of greeting cards that could be delivered both by email and in the post 🙂
I absolutely love receiving your Willard email. It fills me with memories and nostalgia and reminds me of the true treasures in this life. You have such a beautiful way of putting things. I have never been to the coast, but my heart travels there through you writings. Thank you for the gift you share!
We had the chance to visit Martha’s Vineyard this summer and just loved it!!! After retuning home I read all three of your books Martha’s Vineyard: Isle of Dreams, Thr Fairy Tale Girl and A Fine Romance! I now can’t wait to some day visit England!! You now have a new fan!! Thank you!
Very happy to hear that Lisa, new kindred spirits are always appreciated around here! xoxo
Hi Susan,
I got my Willard and just had to respond to you- first time! We are butter fanatics, and have found the best, in our opinion, sea salted butter: Collier’s Welsh Butter. It’s knife-licking good! It comes in a square European-size block, with black foil wrap with a picture of a Welsh coal-miner on it- miner’s hat and all. It’s so salty and creamy it doesn’t melt on your toast as other butters do- it takes a few seconds, because it’s so rich, so you can have a bite or two with solid butter on it. Absolutely wonderful in the Winter! They also make Cheddar cheese, which sells by the pound or pre-packaged in the Deli. Collier’s Welsh. Hope you can find it; if not, as soon as we come back from England (yes! We’re going to the Cotswolds!) I can send you some. Btw, Suspicion is my all-time favorite movie! God Bless, you’re wonderful.
Okay, I will look for it. PS My Belgium butter doesn’t melt either, interestingly, since you mentioned that, I’d never really asked myself why ~ I just figured I must not give it enough time on the toast for melting before I gobble it down! If I can’t find it here, it’s just one more thing to look forward to next year! “Knife-licking good” that’s the new standard! Thank you Andrea!
I rediscovered Susan Branch when I needed to rediscover the magic and beauty all around me. Life had beaten me up, a bit as it does all of us from time to time. I forgot about magic. I forgot to look for it and feel it. I forgot how a beautiful day can seep into my body and help me heal if I just pause and take it in. I’m going to make myself a cup of “Paris” tea and say good morning to the possibility of a magic day.
The proverbial breath of fresh air, thank you Kristin!
Thank you taking me back to the Vineyard even when I can’t physically get there.
As soon as I saw this new book “Gratitude” I ordered 3 copies. One for me and two to use as gifts. Love the book! Keep writing and painting – Love all your work. When Williard arrives, I don’t get much work done since I spend all my time reading it!
Aaaah! The Willard arrived on my birthday! Thank you! What a wonderful birthday surprise…but my husband whisked me away for a birthday dinner, so I couldn’t read it until this morning. So here I am, sitting here in my PJ’s with my morning coffee, the sun is lighting up Pikes Peak and Mount Herman in a rosy glow. Bright yellow Black-eyed Susans are gently swaying in the breeze at the bottom of our garden, where the nature reserve begins, and a squirrel is scurrying to one of our Aspen trees, hoping that the Blue Jays left him some corn. My 2 cats, Nutmeg and Poppy have been on the catnip this morning and are leaping in and out of their cat tree by the window and playing with the toys that dangle from it. There are two rescue cats waiting patiently in one of our basement rooms for me to finish my coffee and go and feed them and let them out…with supervision…to mingle with my own cats. Nutmeg has made friends, but Poppy is still having little hissy fits at these ‘intruders’. We brought the rescue cats all the way back from Minnesota two weeks ago. They belonged to our elderly disabled Uncle who had to go into a nursing home and couldn’t keep them. They were very scared and shy at first, having been alone (except for a member of staff feeding them each day) in our Uncles assisted living apartment for over a month before we could get there. My wonderful husband actually paid the rent on the apartment JUST so the cats could continue to live there until we could get up there! With a lot of love (and some Feliway) they are now both complete cuddlebugs!
I am VERY excited! You see, I usually travel back to England every year from April to June to visit my dear Mum (I am an English gal in Colorado), and guess what? After taking her down to Devon and Cornwall this past trip, we had already decided that next year we would take her to the Lake District!!! So with a bit of planning we MIGHT be able to be there for the picnic…depending on when our youngest graduates from college anyway 🙂
Anyway, here I sit…smiling. And my husband asked ‘What are you smiling at this morning?’ And I replied ‘I got a Willard!’ 😘
Happy Birthday Lynda! I’m so happy Willard made it in time!
I just got back from Scotland (magical) and the Lake District. Went to Beatrix Potters home and loved every minute. Thank you for inspiring me to take that trip! So glad to hear you are going back and to Ireland. Enjoy all your work . Carol Wilson
Hi Susan, I finally got some time to read Willard and I’m so glad I did! You don’t know this, but I am immersed in all things Susan Branch My heart skipped a beat when I saw the date of your next trip to England and Hill Top. It’s my seventieth birthday!! You know my heart and soul will be with you that day. I can’t accompany you because we just got back from England last month. My dear husband (who knows my heart is in England) surprised me with a trip to Cliveden in Berkshire. It is a beautiful manor home with National Trust gardens. We also attended the Chelsea Flower Show in London. So it’s too soon to ask him to cross the pond again. But know that I will be there in spirit and accompany you on your blog!
Your cheery perspective on life and the way you and Joe embrace it is refreshing indeed! I dabble in waterxolor as well and i have a little knitting school out of my home where i love to teach local ladies the old art of twisting and turning yarn to make something beautiful:) maybe someday you will stop by a class and enjoy a spot of tea and some chit chat with us ladies!
Just read your Willard which was such a treat to get in my inbox, the same feeling as getting a real letter in my mailbox! The beauty of your words, photos, and drawings always inspires and enriches me. Thank you for sharing your beautiful outlook with all of us! We are blessed by you. Commenting to let you that (and for a chance to win that fun prize!). Hope you have a lovely weekend, Susan! (I met you in Pasadena last year. Such a fun evening that was!)
I have loved your words and pictures from the beginning, finding a breath of beauty and yumminess in each gorgeous page. Would love to win a special treat from you!
Just read your blog this morning. I am reminded how come I came to love your art and your world. We are so much alike (but I don’t travel). I am going to watch “Suspicion” and lol for that butter. My day is planned Thank you!
I remember when Willard arrived by snail mail, with a little gift included. Special days indeed! You are a very talented and thank you for sharing your joy of a happy home with all the girlfriends ❤️
I awoke early this morning to a sunrise over the Salton Sea to the east of us, it looked like islands in the sky, sun with reddish golden glints through a strip of clouds. Wonderful. Bats were flying around high up above some oaks, get those midges that bite us please! Read your piece about your Downton visit, makes me want to go and visit England without going to see family, then I feel guilty though!
Isn’t it wonderful that all your ‘friends’ from all over the place write on your blog pages (is that what is it called) and we can read them all as well.
I have just read some of your Downton bits to my darling hubby whilst he was going about getting our pups breakfast. (Not really a pup, a very large Shiloh Shepherd who is a sweetheart – as is my husband of 47 years) – a sweetheart that is, not a dog!
I have all three of your books and earlier this year was able to buy on line your first book (think it’s a second printing) as a ‘used’ book, called Heart of the Home,it resides in my kitchen on a shelf under the island.
You give me joy and make my heart sing and as I read whatever you write I smile with happiness. Thank you for being YOU.🇬🇧👵
I’m glad you helped me out with the sweethearts, dog and husband! 😆
HI Susan!
We too are enjoying the change of seasons as Hurricane Harvey blows through the Texas coast. My orange kitty and I are taking advantage of the rainy day by staying snuggled in bed and reading your fun blog! God Bless and Keep those who are in harms way. Kara
Willard has arrived! Hurray!
I too have noticed the season changing. Yesterday I was jumping up and down and calling to my husband “Look,look at the geese!” as a V formation went right by the windows heading south.
Thanks for these spots of sanity in this crazy world.
It is so much fun to “participate” in your travels virtually and to have a little window into your daily activities, thoughts and ruminations, words of wisdom from every corner, yummy recipes, art projects, lovely photos etc… You have such an interesting life! And I love Jack the cat! Thank you for sharing it all with us.
Susan, I loved Isle of Dreams!!!!! Could not put it down. Loved that you saved the dedication to Joe at the end for those who did not know you had a happy ending!!!! I have known about your precious Joe so I was comforted by knowing you would get the happy ending! I did love reading in the next book about how you found each other! I treasure your books, note cards and calendars. They are all daily reminders to enjoy the simple things an hold your loved ones close.. I would be thrilled to win. Thanks.
Hi Susan! Many years ago I found one of your books in a quaint little bookstore, and it changed my heart! I was in a particularly devastating point in my life, and literally clung to that book as I walked walked the book isles. The encouragement I received from it was miraculous, and I thank you,from the depths of my heart!
Can’t decide which looks better- Cary Grant or the lobster!
So glad to have Willard back. I remember receiving hard copies of Willard in the mail.m as always, they bring a sense of beauty and simple times. Thank you for continuing the tradition and sharing. It takes us all back to a life where we all could enjoy spending our time. Safe travels and remember, mind the gap!
Always a pleasure to see Willard in my email mailbox! A feast for the eyes, mind and heart! Thank you!
I am transported to a lovely, happy place whenever I read and see your wonderful work! As a therapist in private practice I see and hear some triumphs and breakthroughs which is the reason I can carry on. Of course, there are the heartrending stories that shadow my heart at times. The children cause the highest and lowest moments. I’m told I’m a superhero! Then I carry the sadness with another child…
Your work has long been a balm to my soul and therapy for my heart ❤️! Thank you! Please don’t stop!
Debbie
Thanks for your wonderful emails and blogs. We are great fans of England too. I first found your books when I was planning an England trip and was delighted that we had seen so many of the same places. Keep travelling.
You always touch my heart with your comments. God bless your mother, Susan. I have to remember for my older sister as well. There is always love, no matter what.
Being an armchair traveler, i cannot wait to share your trip to England again and thanks so much for your lovely bookmark!
Your descriptions of beautiful everyday things and the photos accompanying them are so inspiring. Makes me wish I lived near the ocean and had lots of flowers, trees and greenery surrounding me. Thank you for brightening up my day with your stories and thoughts.
In these days of the Internet and Youtube, you can go anywhere!
Hello! I just returned home to Ohio from Austin, TX, right before the hurricane hit. Prayers to all who live there. Willard greeted me when I went to look at my email. That butter sounds heavenly! I’m travelling to Scotland in April for the 1st time and am staying in a castle that my ancestors built! Thank you Susan for bringing joy to all 8f us!
Susan, if I could clone you for every country on the map as a world leader in inspiration, humor, love and faith in all things home, we would make a gentler, more peaceful, joyful existence for the planet! my heart gets happy reading your posts, newsletters, books (reread them 3x!) they uplifted me so ….
with love and blessings and continued admiration and laughter, and tears, Bindu
Thank you Bindu, that is so sweet! xoxoxo
I have read all of your books and have some of your cookbooks. I felt like I was reading a letter from a dear friend. I have really enjoyed your blogs and Willards also. I can’t wait for a new book. I am ready, I hope you are soon. I was fortunate to meet you at a book signing. You are truly a very lovely person. Thank you for all the enjoyment you bring into our lives!
I’m getting closer! xoxo
Pick me! Pick me!
This is my very first time to do something like this but I would love to win the autumn giveaway…and if I don’t (boo-hoo) I have to say I’ve so enjoyed the Willard and your newsletter. It has been like a vacation. I’ve recently had the privilege to live where we have eclipse totality (AWESOME) but I really enjoyed your photos of eclipse where you are. Thank you for you and God bless.
Hi Susan,
I enjoy reading your Willard’s so much that I get lost in them. Your illustrations are truly amazing. I have several of your books and enjoy reading them over and over. Thank you for sharing your artistic talents with us. Helen W.
Some “girls” in my book club are planning a trip to the Lake District of England next May so hopefully we will be able to join you there!!! You will love Ireland, Susan – the most magical beautiful place on earth! (At least to us of Irish descent).
Got my cup of tea (wild sweet orange..yum!) and read your blog. So much fun because not only do we have so much in common but it brings up my happy times with family, recipes and good memories! Love you! It’s like a great visit with my sister 🙂
Your Willard is like a gift I don’t want to open quickly, but then I have to scroll as fast as I can just to see how MUCH love is in each one. Your watercolor paintings, pictures of your gorgeous kitchen, home, yard, family, friends, cat, the poetry you write, the wisdom you share, the recipes and the TEA-time friendship. It’s the same reason I fell in love with the first cook-book (SUMMER) of yours that I was so blessed to find over 20 years ago…I just showed my husband how beautiful this Willard is…now he wants to subscribe himself and he has Frank Sinatra playing on the radio upstairs while he changes the sheets on our bed! Thank you for sharing your gifts…God is so good to give you to all of us.
Hugs to you both Shawna . . . you can dance through life with that good guy!
I can’t tell you in words how reading your posts, or blogs, or books, or quotes, or just about anything else has touched my life, spirit and soul! It’s been as if I’ve started to experience my childhood all over again and things that I loved as a little girl have come back to life again. ….God bless you Susan! Please don’t ever stop doing all that you do! I appreciate it so much!
I think our souls are old friends.
I didn’t want to start ironing just yet on this delightful fall like day in MA. So I turned on my computer, and lo and behold Willard was waiting for me. I’ve just spent the most delightful time reading and enjoying all of your pictures, especially of Jack. I love your home, your art, your quotes. I come alive when I read things that you’ve written and drawn. I can’t wait for your trip to see where Beatrix Potter lived. I taught elementary school for 33 years and I always included a unit on Beatrix Potter. I was so glad to introduce my students to one of my favorite authors. I hope I win your beautiful gifts.
So Willard has finally arrived and with it time has slowed to island time. I get to savor autumn’s approach as if I were there alongside you. Thanks for slowing things down however briefly.
A Fine Romance was a dream come true for me –a trip to England. I look forward to reading it again and will follow your upcoming trip as well. Many thanks.
Dear Susan,
I was first introduced to you during my daughter’s bridal shower over 20 years ago. She received three “Heart of the Home” books as gifts, so she gave me one. I fell in love with your artwork immediately and have used your delicious recipes SO many times for family and friends. Your blog and Willard brighten my day each time they come out, and, as I know that you know, we can all use some good cheer these days.
Thank you for being there for all us “Girlfriends”!
Warmest regards,
Lisa
I always say that Heart of the Home has been to more weddings than any other of my books! Thank you Lisa!
Since our trip to the Vineyard last October, I can picture your sweet town and ‘hear’ the ferry coming and leaving, remember the special island as we toured around it. We were able to walk by your beautiful home, and I love hearing you describe it with such affection. Thank you for Willard, and your books, and your blog. I feel like you’re a friend I haven’t met yet.
I love your books and web site. They are calming like a summer breeze.
I love your books and illistrations. I keep one framed in my craft room. I hope I win this contest. My husband loves to say nothing is free. We could prove him wrong 😁
How about the best things in life? All free! Like shadows, they’re free! Goodnight kisses? Free! 🤗 You win!