Welcome! How about some nice cool MUSICA? Oui! I imagine lots of you are just coming over from your 
It just started going out today (Wednesday), and it now takes about five days for it all to go … if you don’t 
already get it, sign up now and maybe you’ll be in time to find a letter in your box. It’s a fun one! It has announcements! I thought today, in celebration of the coming change of season ~ I’d make us Zucchini Bread for tea! But before I do that, a reminder about the new Fall Giveaway I mentioned in Willard! When you get to the bottom of this post, look for the tiny word “comments” ~ click there, leave a few words so you’ll automatically be entered in our drawing . . . for this . . .
Not one, not two, but three books ~ all of them signed to the winner (or if you’ll be giving them as a gift, to whomever you like!), Autumn, Heart of the Home, and Gratitude ~ in addition, for complete celebration, I’m including one of our new Autumn cups along with a bag of Gingerbread Cake Black Tea.👏 Just leave a comment, and keep your fingers crossed! It could be YOU! It really could! Much better odds than the lottery. And we ship, so no matter where you are, if you win, you win!
Speaking of fall … this is one of my favorite things, a harbinger of the changing season, the way the light dances on my kitchen walls as the wind blows through the leaves outside ~ it’s mesmerizing!
It actually shimmers all over the house . . . there is something very cozy about it . . .
I’ve been taking pictures of it for a long time. This was the porch of my first Island house, 
called Holly Oak, during my first fall on the Island (my first “real” fall, period). For those of you who don’t know ….I had moved to the Island from California and had only lived there for a few months, but I could feel the season changing, and I knew then I was falling in mad love with this place. It’s been the same every year since, watching the light and the way the colors change is magical. 🍂
Joe and I walk down this dirt road each morning, through the dappled woods, trees and thickets are still green, but we’re starting to see tiny pops of color (you can see some at top, over the road).
I even take pictures of other people’s shadows!
The solar eclipse was only partial up here in New England, but it made the shadows even more fun … you could see the moon in them. Making me realize for the first time, that when you see a splotch of sunlight through the trees, you are seeing the entire sun in that one bit of light. Because here, the moon is blocking part of it … and so you get these little scalloped moons dappled under all the trees. Isn’t that wild?
So much moon and sun, they almost made tulips!
This little one … the moon in the sun … quite an amazing bit of sweetness.
They even made it into the house… sparkled down the kitchen counters and across the floor. I wonder how many times this has happened in this house, and what the other people we’ve shared these old rooms with must have thought about it.
There’s Joe, my hero, outside washing the specks of spaghetti sauce and bacon grease off the windows and filling the bird feeders for me . . .
We visit through the windows while I set the oven temperature for 325° and find my recipe for Zucchini Bread. Ah yes . . .
I’ll show you how to make this delicious seasonal yumminess . . . and don’t worry, I’ll put the recipe at the bottom so you can print it out. First we need a couple of bowls and a loaf pan.
This recipe is as fast and easy as any packaged mix ~ I make it at least once a year. You get two big loaves from it, one for you and one to give away or freeze. In one of the bowls, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt and baking powder. Set aside.
In the other bowl, whisk eggs, then add sugar and vegetable oil and whisk well.
whisking well.
The you grate zucchini . . .
and stir it into the egg mixture . . .
The birds keep me company while I work, always a good thing!
Stir well.
Add the dry ingredients,
along with the chopped walnuts,
and the vanilla . . .
And voila! Mix well and pour into buttered loaf pans. Bake 60 minutes until a knife in the center comes out clean.
While the cake was baking, I took Jack and we went into the wood room to put up our feet and watch a good old movie.
See? His feet are up.
Our movie starts out all nice and sweet … with Cary Grant and Joan Fontaine ~ Perfect! In this movie, she’s wealthy and shy and he’s a charming playboy without a penny to his name, but she doesn’t know that yet. She’s falling, hook, line, and sinker.
Boy meets Girl, it must be love . . . and I’m settled in, happy as a clam ….
“Have you ever been kissed in a car?” he asks her, and she says, “no” and he says, “would you like to be?” . . . and then they go on an amazing honeymoon and waltz all over Europe to this MUSICA … so delightful ~ they come home to their new house that I would like to own and he immediately puts on “their song” and they dance around their new living room from happiness!
And she is now Mrs. John Aysgarth … sooo happy. But, I forgot to mention, this is an Alfred Hitchcock movie, so it comes with a twist. ⚡️
. . . Which I’ll show you in a moment (not giving anything away, even though I’m pretty sure you’ve seen this movie ~ it came out in 1941, but just in cases) ~ this film has everything I love . . . it’s set in Sussex, England, so there’s already plenty of unspoken history and gravitas, there are darling cottages, and cute cars ~ they have tea, there are quirky characters, and a wonderful scene on a train…
. . . plus it’s mostly British actors, Dames and Sirs, and there are things like riding to the hounds . . . (… just about now, that cake in the oven was starting to smell so good, all cinnamon and sugar!)
. . . and little village churches. Alfred Hitchcock was English so he knew about these things.
The hair, the clothes, the architecture, are all perfection. Everything I love. Love the little bow ~ a bit of 1941 Diane Keaton.
Wonderful romantic curtains, and look, leafy shadows on her windows!
The buzzer just went off, my zucchini bread is done! YUM! Out it comes to cool . . . back I go to the movie . . .
SO, yes, Alfred Hitchcock, which means that besides the charm in every scene and especially the charm of the wonderful actors, there was another character in this “romantic psychological thriller” that got no billing at all . . . Bwaaaaaah! It’s the shadows! Look at them! They aren’t mentioned in the credits, but they are a definite presence in this movie and tell you everything you need to know. I don’t think the shadows in my house are sinister at all, but here, they definitely are! First thing I would do if I was her is get a dog. She actually has a dog but I would get another one with bigger teeth.
Because this movie is called Suspicion, and you don’t have to say it twice, it’s in every scene. Look at those shadows . . . I feel suspicious right now.
For example, what fresh hell is HE up to, lurking around the bar . . . we don’t know, but we know it’s something!
Oh, Alfred, you are so good! Slashed with a shadow! They don’t make ’em like they used to!
Even here, she goes into this office (in the adorable little English town that’s actually probably some place in Hollywood) and look what he’s done with the light ~ I have no doubt that he controlled every corner of this movie.
Cake’s cool, time for tea! No problem, I can watch TV while I make tea! My biggest problem? Which cup shall I use? I take turns.
My shadow’s right with me … lotta shadows in this blog! But this one is the best. Back to our chair we go . . .
Uh-oh — Cary and Joanie play Scrabble with Beaky (Nigel Bruce, naive friend), and we get another rather huge clue . . .
And as time goes by, it becomes more obvious that this lighthearted movie isn’t as lighthearted as we thought (or is it?). Here comes Cary with the poison milk! We know it’s poison milk because it’s all lit up! And we are very suspicious, because of the sinister shadows from the moonlight through the conservatory roof. We can see that milk coming up the stairs a mile away! Bang with the shadows! 💥
OMG, he’s in the bedroom, don’t drink it Joanie!!! (Love the satin pillow on the left. And whatever is behind it. Love everything in this house.) I better stop. I’m going to give the whole thing away. You are just going to have to watch it yourself! Make a loaf of Zucchini Bread first, it’s moist and nutty, and all chewy on the edges ~ it adds a lot to the ambience.
XOXO
Joe’s feeders are emptying fast but the windows look so much better! The birds outside our kitchen windows are constant entertainment ~ they bring their babies, fight for footholds, and sing their hearts out. We keep a bird book nearby, to identify possible strangers.
In my next blog post, besides announcing the winner of the drawing, I’m going to write: “How to Travel: the Tricks of the Trade.” We are getting to be experts. Only thing we haven’t figured out yet, how to take only one suitcase! Getting us ready for our virtual and real trip to the other side of the pond. So excited … love all these months in front of us for planning and “looking forward!”
One more shadow . . . we were downtown over the weekend, walking home after dinner, and looked up to see one of my favorite sights, a kitty in the window!
Today I get to plan the menu for the winners of the Possible Dreams Auction that was held 
here on the Island a couple of weeks ago ~ they’re coming on Friday! You might remember, I mentioned the auction in one of my recent posts, and just in case anyone is interested, here’s the update: I’ll be making lunch and spending the afternoon with the highest bidder and three of her friends (I heard it went for $4,000, which all goes to our local Community Services so it was a wonderful thing for someone to do 💗). What shall I make, what SHALL I make . . . going to get out the books. I’m thinking we should eat outside under the arbor … I want this to be GOOD.
We went to the nursery yesterday, where everything is on sale, it’s end of season! We wanted to freshen the garden, get some fall color . . . and look how pretty, that’s our cart!
It’s a good time of year to get plants. They’re less expensive, you can see how big they are and know for sure what color the flowers will be. And then next year? Oooh, la wee!
Love you Girls, I’m still singing Dancing Queen from the Willard, 🎶 You can dance, you can jive, havin’ the time of your life … 🎵 See that girl, watch that scene, digging’ the Dancing’ Queen . . .🎶 … Have a wonderful day! Don’t forget to leave a comment to win our Giveaway! XOXO
Z U C C H I N I B R E A D
Preheat oven to 325° Makes two 8″ x 4″ loaves
- 2 c. flour (unsifted, lighten by stirring with fork, then measure)
2 tsp. baking soda- 2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. baking powder
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 2 c. sugar
- 1 c. vegetable oil
- 2 c. grated, raw, unpeeled zucchini
- 1 c. chopped walnuts
- 2 tsp. vanilla
2 tsp. baking sodaPreheat oven to 325°. In a lg. bowl, whisk together first five ingredients and set aside. In another lg. bowl, beat eggs, add sugar and oil and beat well. Stir in zucchini; then add the dry ingredients along with the walnuts and the vanilla and mix well. Pour into two buttered loaf pans. Bake one hour until knife in center comes out clean. Cool completely before turning onto serving dish. 💖
Oh, oh, I can’t remember if I commented! On my way out the door so I’ll just say what a delight to read and see your blog – hope I’m entered!
Love Jack, Autumn, shadows & you
Hi Susan,
I enjoyed reading your blog (as always) and seeing all those photos with interesting shadows. I loved seeing how you featured the movie “Suspicion”. I’m a big fan of Cary Grant and Joan Fontaine and “Suspicion” is one of my favorite movies of all time! I have it on DVD and after reading your blog, it made me want to watch it again for the tenth time or maybe more (I have lost count)! By the way, I have purchased and read several of your books and I always find them so inspiring and entertaining and your art so heartwarming. And your zucchini bread recipe sounds delicious, I think I’ll try making it!
I love reading about the change of seasons. We’ve had a 3-day heatwave in the San Francisco area. Very few structures here have air conditioning. I’m a high school teacher and teaching in that heat is no fun for my students or for me. So thanks for letting me vicariously experience the turn of the season through your lovely writing, art, and photos. It was truly a breath of fresh air. I would love to enter your giveaway.
Happy September Susan!
Thank you for being such an inspiration! Your blog and Willards always cheer me! I purchased a vintage recipe box and I ❤️ it! Thank you for sharing those “treasure chests”. Such a wonderful idea! It’s too hot here in CA, can’t wait for some brisk fall weather!
This morning I watched “Penny Serenade” … again … and often wonder why Cary Grant didn’t win an Oscar for that performance, although he was nominated for it. It is one of his few really dramatic roles, and I think he was wonderful. Well, I think he is wonderful in all of his films!
I also love “Suspicion”, and found it was nominated for Best Picture, and Joan Fontaine won Best Actress for her performance. Cary Grant was given a special Honorary Oscar for his life’s work in 1970, which was presented to him by Frank Sinatra. I think that’s cool !!
Susan, I don’t need to be entered in the drawing, because I already have the three books and Autumn cup, so give them to someone who does not have them. Our light is changing here, too, and the days are less humid and brilliant when the sun is shining.
Continuing prayers for all affected by Hurricane Harvey … I cannot imagine the destruction caused by that storm, and am amazed by the courage and strength of the victims, and the outpouring of help from all over. It will be years before all have recovered. May God bless them all!
Barb
I’m with you Barbara, thinking of everyone in the path of these destructive hurricanes! Yikes!
Mother Nature gave an incredible display of her creativity yesterday: 94 in Santa Barbara with a “micro mini tropical storm” that dropped a 1/4 inch of rain in 15 minutes, blew down huge trees across main street of town, flooded underpasses, capsized boats and kayaks in the harbor with thunder and lightening in the background. Definitely a show of power and a first for Santa Barbara.
We all danced around in the drenching rain laughing like scene from “Dancing Queens” celebrating fall even without rays of sun!
San Luis was 115!
Good grief! That’s getting to be a little bit much don’t you think. I love the rain, but the temp is horrible! LOL, I’m sorry, but what can I say!? Blessings on us all, really, the weather is wreaking havoc to so many! xoxoxo
Happy Labor Day!
Hi
I just want to say how grateful I am for this amazing blog! We share the same love for the English countryside, Beatrix Potter books, tea time parties, etc.
I bought your Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams book and it became a source of encouragement and inspiration. I love it! Martha’s Vineyard is on my Bucket List! Thank you!
Hugs from Israel 🙂
Hugs back to you Patty! Lovely to hear from so far away, one of my favorite places!
Susan, Your blog makes my heart happy. What a gift!
I am making your zucchini bread right now on this beautiful autumn afternoon…I expect the house will be smelling divine any minute and we will have a treat to go with our Labor Day cookout!
SO EXCITED to see that my recipe box shipped today!!! Yippee!!!
Thank you for brightening my days, Susan!
Tell me what you think Martha! I had such fun making them, I hope you can tell when you see it!
Heu, Susan, I am feeling very cozy as I read “Isle of Dreams ” , but it also makes me feel like ,wake up- celebrate or create something. Absorb this positive vibe and do something to smile about.
September is such a gorgeous month! You can have both summer and fall, my favorite seasons 🙂
Your blog is my computer’s home page it and it always a breath of fresh air when it comes up! Thank you!
Zucchini bread looks delicious. Getting ready to make some. Fall is in the air. Blessings to you and Joe
Hi Susan,
I just discovered your memoirs. I was intrigued by The Fairy Tale Girl – the lettering of the pages, the little watercolors through out. So I thought I would read a bit of it. I started and I couldn’t put it down. I loved the way you write your story. As soon as I finished, I started the next book. I am almost finished with it. I am really enjoying it. Looking forward to A Fine Romance to finish the rest of your story. I have also shared these books with my mom and sister and niece. Thank you so much for sharing your life with us.
Thank you back Cindy ~ the greatest compliment of all ~ word of mouth! xoxo
Thank you for a most delightful post. Hearing from you always makes my day! Thanks also for the recipe, I’m trying it tomorrow, wish me luck. Happy September, Happy Fall.
I’m a long long long time fan. My best girlfriend and I have been reading your books and buying your calendars for years. This summer I read Fairy Tale Girl and Isle of Dreams. Happy sigh. I felt like we were neighbors. My girlhood summer memories also include biking to the library where it was cool and quiet, to pick a new chapter book to read and dream over. <3
I lived in the library, summer in the valley where I grew up was so HOT, and that cool library was a boon to the little children!
“She actually has a dog but I would get another one with bigger teeth.” Oh, so would I! Love that line.
love your blogs and thoughts….Have an awesome fall
You are amazing and always share something that makes my heart sing! Thank you for being wonderful, sweet you!!!! xo
Hope I’m not too late for the drawing😀! Love everything you do, Susan, and I’m excited to try the zucchini bread recipe. Thank you for your informative, fun, and entertaining blog entries. Happy autumn!
Just ordered your 2018 blotter calendar and 10th anniversary Autumn from amazon as I am impatient and want them right away! I love the moon and your reminder of when it is full each month! Cannot believe summer is over and fall is here already! Thank you for your lovely art work and upbeat outlook on life. Always when we girlfriends check in , you lift us up, remind us to click our heels together, and give thanks, for THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME!
Love you lots , Susan!! I will let you know how the Zucchini Bread turns out for me! THIS IS MY TIME TO RETURN TO BAKING!!!!
It’s that time of year!
Hi Susan,
Loved your messages and can’t wait to try the zucchini bread. I so enjoy seeing different parts of your house and how you decorate it. Looking forward to receiving Willard this week. I am also in Massachusetts and have noticed just a tad of leaves changing to glorious colors . . . here come the sweaters and quilts!
Kathi
I love the crystal bread tray! Is it vintage or can you share your source please?! Thank you! Love your blog! S
Happy #FullMoon Tonight #SweetSue I Flew To The #FarmersAlmanac This Morning… & “They” Said That “Normally” 😉 The September~Full~Moon Is Called The #Harvest Moon But This Year The Way The Autumn~Equinox Falls & The Closeness Of The Moon…(Something Like That) That #TheHarvestMoon Will Be The #October Full~Moon…. #What? September Is #TheHarvestMoon & #October Is #TheBloodMoon I Guess What~Ever The Full~Moon Is Called It Is STILL #TrulyMagical! 🙂 Sending You Full~Moon~Magic~Pixie~Dust Mixed With a Bit Of Star~Dust! xoxo Poof! 🙂 P.S. Make Your Sweet~September~Wishes #SweetestSue & Kitty~Kisses To #JACK (From~Me) P.P.S. #KeepFloridaInYourPrayers Did You See The Size Of #HurricaneIrma???? OMG!!! #PoofBeGoneIrmaYouHaveNoPowerHere….Yikes! 😉
I think zucchini bread sounds like the perfect way to welcome September–and make the most of the chill that is in the air now. Thank you for the lovely post. I hope I win! I grew up in AZ but now I live in CT. Fall is difficult for me because it means Winter is on its way, but your books help me to enjoy EVERY season–even the cold ones.
I’m probably too late to enter contest but that’s ok – love to read your blogs & Willards just got kind of busy so didn’t read them for a while – still ok 😁 still loving your stuff Susan and thank you
Bonnie
Autummmmmnnnn! How much I love thee! Yay for your autumn post, I am definitely getting myself in the kitchen to make some of that fine zucchini bread. And…It’s so nice to find my soulmates here on your site ❤️ October is my favorite Color, after all 😉
Hi, Sue! I’m not sure I left a comment on this beautiful blog, so I’m doing that now! Haven’t made zucchini bread this season; need to rectify that! What a wonderful giveaway you’ve planned! Someone will be very lucky!
Love your books! And Suspicion is one of my all time favorite movies.
So happy Fall is on it’s way …..
………I just love this blog……. 🙂
I love visiting with you. I can’t wait to make the zucchini bread! Give your little “shadow” a hug from someone in the midwest!
Happy Fall! We moved back from Seaside Ca at the end of April to Maryland-Kent Island. My mom lives here and has for many years, but now we do too. It is exciting to notice the differences in the seasons, I have never seen fall here- but already seeing the changes in the light. We are just excited to have seasons again as we did not see much in CA. Our two young boys are excited as well…especially for winter with snow! I love your Autumn book- matter of fact read through it the other day…part of my tradition in the beginning of September to get me in the mood for fall. I do miss California though and have to keep checking Facebook for my friends posts that still live there.
Have a great season!
Alysia
Thank you for your lovely blog post (and Willard in my inbox!). I enjoy reading them when my 17 month old son is napping with a good cup of coffee or tea. 🙂 It’s my little “me time” during the day! I would love to win your prize pack….we have another little one on the way that’s due in December and I’ll need some good reading and tea for those middle of the night feedings!
Congratulations Johanna! My niece is also expecting a new little person, #2 in her family too. Blessings on you and yours!
Loved your post from top to bottom, Susan!
I’ve been so immersed in your enchanting Isle of Dreams story these past few days, I almost forgot to leave a comment for the grand giveaway. I hope it’s not too late.
Wishing you glimpses of heaven in unexpected places… and I know you already find them everywhere … but one can never have too many!
Hugs,
Bren xox
As always Bren. xoxoxo
Your’e Give Aways are such a delight. Thank you for your generous heart ~ we all learn so much from you!
We have Fall-ish weather here today. Praying for all in Irma’s path …🙏🏼
As I returned home today from dropping my 3 kids off at their first day of school, I needed something to soothe my tattered soul, your words and paintings speak to me, bring me joy, and calm, I spent this summer reading, The Fairy Tale Girl, A Fine Romance, and Isle of Dreams, I begged for them not to be over. I’ve yet to experience one of your cookbooks. Thank you for following your creative bliss.
I need to write another book!
Please do! One for every summer would be great, 😉.
😘
I have NOT seen that Hitchcock movie but now I want to! That zucchini bread/cake looks so yummy! It will be several months yet til it cools off here in NE FL!
Pick me! I just moved to a new town! I passed my school librarian test and am still in the midst of boxes. Fall is coming in central Washington and I am ready for the first apple season!
would love to win! thanks for your inspiration!
Love all things Susan Branch❤️ I studied Hitchcock in film studies love the lighting, shadows, and low camera angles!! Do you think I could use carrots in the zucchini bread recipe? I am allergic to all squash, pumpkins, and eggplant 😢 The recipe looks yummy and I love love love teabread! I already have the great cups you made! The fine bone china with the perfect sipping lip edge is fabulous! The artwork phenomenal!!❤️ Hugs from CA!
I would definitely try the carrots! I think zucchini might be a wee bit more watery, maybe add a tablespoon of milk too. Tell me how it works Karen!
I love everything about this post!!!! ❤️
zucchini bread and alfred hitchcock….amazing combo! Have missed peeking into your world!~
The zucchini bread looks delicious! And, such inspiration on your wonderful photos! Jamie V in MT
I love your blog and books and cups and especially love to hear about your trips to England!
I love fall! Your posts are so inspiring!
I really enjoy and look forward to reading your blog!
Hello! Beautiful mugs arrived the other day! Love them and can’t wait to give my daugher the two I ordered for her birthday in November! She really wanted the Fall one with the adorable squirrel so I know she will be quite pleased!
Mary
I always love reading your posts Susan!
Oh Susan, what a wonderful reading session this was! I love taking photos and now I will be hooked on taking pictures of shadows. You’ve made me see them in a whole new “light!” It’s been several years since I watched it, so now I will have to view it again to see the ending! Enjoy the changing of seasons, always wondrous time of year.
Yay! Thanks for the fb reminder! Hurt my back and was outta commission…didn’t see the giveaway!💕💕💕
Suspicion is one of my favorite movies too! I never tire of watching it! I like to rewatch movies as I iron.
I love my new Martha’s Vineyard cup. It has a ferry on it and we are on ferries a lot because that is how we get to my home Island- San Juan Island in Washington state. All the best to you from one islander to another.
I love everything about the fall- the smells, the colors, the relief from summer’s heat. I can’t wait to try the recipe for zucchini bread. thanks!
Recipes, movies, and photos…oh, my! Thank you for your zucchini bread recipe. I’m going to make it today🎶.
Am reading your book, Falling in Love with the English Countryside.
We are leaving Monday for the Cotswolds! Hiking the Cotswold’s way trail from Chipping Campdon to Bath. Your book has made me OH SO excited for our adventure. I have no choice but to take one suitcase and a small ruck sack so I’m plotting and planning to make things efficient, functional, stylish and leave room for special somethings to bring home ! Not an easy task. Have adored you forever, have many of your books but have just not taken time to follow you.
apologies!
Oh Kim, I am SO happy for you. What a wonderful time you will have! Let us know when you get back!
Fall is my favorite time of year, and I can’t even count the reasons, there are sooooo many!!!! I don’t know how happy I would be to live where there was not a true fall season. Sometimes I will say I need four seasons, but it is really only fall that I crave! Hoping to win the drawing. I apparently missed the boat on getting the Autumn mug 😕 and as of yet don’t own the Autumn cookbook, so it would be a lovely treat!
Love your blogs….have moved, so am in a tizzy at the moment, smaller space and trying to figure out where to put the things that I love. Thank you for being there, Susan with your motivating blog!
Susan! I just love your blogs and Willard! I have followed you from almost the very first Willard. I still have all of them in their original paper version. Well, except for the first two, which I missed out on! I love your art and your books! And your calendars. 🙂 Your calendars have graced my kitchen wall for years!! It’s the only one I like to buy. Thank you for doing what you do, and for sharing it with all of us. 🙂
Your lovely take on life’s simple joys inspires me. ♡
Thank you for the inspiration, as always! Fall is my favorite, but have you found that certain negative people refuse to agree? And thank you for the crescent sunlight photos; it was too cloudy here in N. Virginia to see much that day.
Also to mention, after nearly 30 years of admiring your stove, that my darling grandparents had the same one….. lived in So. Cal all their married life. Maybe you’ll be in England for the birth of the new Prince or Princess! p.s. gave my mom your Santa mug for her birthday!
OMG, realized I devoured Willard but forgot to comment to enter the giveaway. My husband got me the Xmas mug for my bday, would love to try the tea, and gift some books. Tried the bread and so delish❤️. Like Fall here in Indiana. Love this time of year. Thank you dear Susan for allyou share with we girlfriends.
I was lucky enough to snag an autumn cup for myself, but one as a gift for my mother in law (who introduced me to you!) would be amazing!
Thank you Susan! Today feels like a zucchini bread baking day. Summer has given way just for today. Loving the feel of cooler air and warm sunshine, heaven for Colorado! Love your blog and pictures, and I need to watch “Suspicion” now. I do love Cary Grant and Gregory Peck as well. Gentlemen with a capital “G”! I’m off to gather ingredients for the bread. Ta!
Hi Susan, Reading your fun and informative blog and also currently reading “A Fine Romance” has helped me make it through worrying while my granddaughter went through the Houston devastation and now I have a hurricane to prepare for (now a category 5) I’m in Florida. Hoping everyone stays safe!!
I cannot wait for fall it is the most wonderful time of year and continues on to Christmas my most favorite! Ill have to tweak the zucchini bread recipe because my husband UA a diabetic. But it sound delicious!
Fall is my favorite season! You can just feel Mother Nature telling us it’s here.
Have to tell on myself – I am swaying to old “Blue Eyes” singing. Really nothing like him! My parents danced every weekend and he was a favorite!
Of course you are swaying to Old Blue Eyes, it’s a scientific fact, he makes us happy!
What a delightful post, Susan! Love old b&w movies, too. Love the way the homes, gardens, and towns were always sprinkled with charm.
Love your zucchini bread recipe, but haven’t made it in awhile. Zucchini will be on my Farmer’s Market list this Saturday.
Prayers continue for all in Texas, and now Florida.
Happy Everything!
I love the pictures of the different lighting’s. Especially the eclipse.
Love the shadow pictures. Have always found shadows fascinating – unless they are scary ones 🙂
Susan,
Been purchasing your books since you began publishing them. Love, love, love all of your designs and products. They always bring a smile to my face. Thanks for sharing your talents with us.
Lots of things to love in this post – Suspicion has been a favorite of mine for years and now I think must rewatch it tonight without fail! I also own a garden center and agree that fall really is a wonderful time to buy plants (and the best time to plant them)! I used to win things all the time, like a bag of horse feed at the rodeo or raffle baskets at the Realtor’s luncheon, but it’s been a looong time since I’ve won anything so I’ve got my fingers crossed.
A l-o-n-g time fan❤️
Love Fall and the ever changing colors and patterns of light! I can smell the zucchini bread! I must rush off to make some and sip tea while I watch this movie.
One of my favorite movies is The Enchanted Cottage, not quite as sinister but still charming!
I love that one too, I have this thing for movies with cottages! Especially enchanted ones!
Love old movies and fun shadows. I’m so ready for fall. We have had hot weather longer than normal for our area. I’m ready for hot tea and blankies and crisp air! Just love reading Willard and dreaming I was there too!
The birdsong is so lovely……………time to clean out my feeders!! xoxo
Love this post! I printed out your list of “old movies” from your blog and am determined to watch them ALL! Looking forward to cooler weather in sunny Arizona.
I LOVE zucchini bread and haven’t made any in a coon’s age. I guess I know what I’ll be doing one afternoon this week. And, thank you for sharing the snippets from the Alfred Hitchcock movie; I’ve never heard of that one and it looks like it would be wonderful!
Thank you for always, always, bringing joy to my day!
good afternoon Susan, Girlfriends. just a quick update on things here. we are at level 1 evacuation orders which means be prepared if we have to leave. I have the emergency things and bags ready if needed. as of today from the top of Hayes Hill on 199 to the California border we are on level 1. from the Illinois river road near Selma ( 12-15 miles from cave junction) in the national wilderness area, and Oak Flats are on level 3 which means get out now. I have a web site you can check out for the latest on this Chetco Bar fire go to inciweb.nwcg.gov for maps, photos and all the latest updates or google Chetco Bar Fire for info. got to go and refill the water tubs, empty the ashes out of them and get some clean water to the barnyard crowd, yes we have ashes coming down on us and everything, its a mess really. anyway thought I would pop in and update you all. we do have rain predicted for tomorrow, Thursday and Friday so please keep your fingers crossed and think rain for us, we need it real bad here. thanks… hugs….. 🙂
Oh dear Pat, you’ve mentioned this fire before, but it feels like it’s been going on forever ~ I didn’t realize it was heading your way. How awful. Prayers for you and the barnyard brats! Hooray for rain, fingers are crossed. Let us know! XOXO
I don’t think I have ever had zucchini bread. Maybe I should. 🙂
Red letter day !! I was so happy to find a copy of your first book, notes from a vineyard kitchen at a local used book store…in pristine condition….ready for me to love!! I will wear it out.
Carol in Ontario Canada
Thank you for the rescue!
Absolutely love this post and love you Susan!!! I have a hand written note from you from a lonnnnnng time ago, precious pictures from when me and my sister waited in line to meet you, and even went to the Cape to stare at your house and sigh that one of my bucket list wishes came true. Keep up the magic. You have no idea how.much.joy you have given me and my sister!!!
Hmmmm, maybe a Susan Branch loaf pan is due……I can see it now…..!
Hi Susan,
Thank you so much for another beautiful post! I love your books, your flowers and the picture of Jack in the window is beyond precious! I can hardly wait for Autumn….my favorite time of year! Sending hugs and love!
I loved receiving the Willard, it was beautiful and a bit nostalgic, it brings me comfort. I can never get enough of those pictures of Jack, funny how he loves those rubber bands, my little tabby goes crazy for them too. After last weeks’ heat wave here in Los Angeles, I’m ready to feel the slight cool down of fall.
I like the shadow of the cat in the window much better than Hitchcock’s portents of doom!
And I love fall, the season I fell in love 43 years ago (40th anniversary coming up in April)!
lovely post as always
That bread looks yummy! Love your autumn cup! I already have the Santa one sooo cute! Such detail like the paper chain just so cute!
I am ready for the season to change it’s always nice to experience the fall foliage , 🍎 apple cider, pumpkins 🎃 etc!
Beautiful post! I am amazed at your positive outlook all the time. I am adding you to my very short hero list! ♥
I can’t wait to try the Zucchini bread! As always, from bird feeders to tea to Hitchcock, your blog is amusing and endearing!
Dear Susan,
I so enjoy your art and blog. Thank you for sharing your life with us. Thank you for allowing me to enter your giveaway contest!
Hi Susan…. I love your “Willard” newsletters.! I love your books! I love your
calendars! What a blessing to live where you are. Every time I see your name anywhere and on anything, I smile. You are a very special lady. Please know
that you are Loved!!!…..Tonya
Thank you Tonya! I definitely feel loved when I read all these wonderful comments ~ and because I have the best girlfriends in the world! xoxo
You make everything so lovely.
Thanks always.
Love the zucchini recipe and love this blog!!
After a busy day preparing for dinner guests and enjoying the evening I find myself having a restless night. So my “go to” often when this happens is to “go to” your blog! There is something so soothing about looking through your beautifully scripted and scenic posts~~ loving the beauty, yet earthy details of the lovely life you lead! Thanks for sharing your talents for so many people to enjoy! Now I’m going back to bed, feeling refreshed and relaxed! 🙂
Yay, sweet dreams Myky!
thank you, susan, for the recipe…we will make the z-bread this weekend in oklahoma! also. mad love is the best…. and hubby looks a little alfred hitchcock-esque himself standing outside your window!!!…but not actually, since he washed them. that’s mad love. lucky girl. : ) happy almost-autumn. heading to read willard now. and then teach first graders. i wish we had some susan branch lessons in first grade. we all love you. hearts. and birdies. and crunchy walks down the driveway! peace…
You give them those lessons, Ashley, you can do it, you understand mad love. Lucky, lucky kids. xoxoxo
Hola Susan,
I just signed up for Willard, but plan to read all your prior newsletters.
Thank you for being You! I enjoy reading your books. You are my favorite author. I consider you my friend since you keep helping me in so many ways. You are adorable and so much loved.
Blessings,
Rita
P.S. I “Keep calm and love Susan Branch”
So dear, thank you Rita. xoxoxo
Love this post! I haven’t seen this particular Cary Grant movie, so it’s definitely now on my list.
My mom, sister, and I just got back from our big England/Scotland adventure–and it was everything and MORE than I thought it would be. And pictures and words don’t do it justice. Near Sawrey, Hill Top, Tarn Hows, and Ambleside were my favorites. It was like stepping back in time to enter Hill Top, and I wouldn’t have been surprised to see Beatrix herself come through the door after visiting one of her many farms or checking out her sheep. I especially loved how she specified that the family Bible stay open to Psalm 23–so fitting! I WANT TO GO BACK! 🙂 And the weather! Oh my! We stayed at the Sawrey House Hotel, and one morning the temp was 58 degrees F. I wore a light jacket most of the time, while my husband and children back home were sweating in the high 90s!
Enjoy the changing of the seasons. Down here in the deep South, summer is still going strong.
I know EXACTLY what you mean Amy. Wasn’t it just the best? I am craving that distant land! Welcome home! xoxo