Hiiii! We’re home!! MUSICA? Yes! It’s great to be here, and we had a WONDERFUL time in California! It was soooo good to see everyone. And I did bring home that special giveaway I promised ~ you’ll find it at the bottom of this post . . . but W A I T, don’t go yet . . . because getting home was the BEST. Here we are racing toward New England in our train room with awesome view . . .
. . . Hoping the whole way that we might still have some leaves on our trees. It was the end of October and normally by then they’re gone. But the way things were looking, we were thinking m a y b e . . . 🍂 🍁🍂🍁
Speeding through upstate New York, I was heartened by the color! Nothing like leaf-peeping from a train window.
We got off the train on Sunday in Albany, rented a car (so we could make the last ferry to the Island that same night) and drove through the gorgeous Berkshires, feeling more and more positive there would still be leaves on our trees at home.
We made the last boat but didn’t get home until after 10, so we couldn’t SEE the trees! Sleeping that night, when we finally got in our very own bed for the first time in a month, was as exciting as the night before Christmas! Would there still be fall when we woke up?
Dawn, from our bedroom window, assurance, and every dream come true.
I raced from window to window upstairs . . .
And down . . .
Then out to the side garden . . .
And around the house to the back . . . soooo
Then all the way back for the long view! Fall waited for us! Leaves blowing down, chill in the air, smell of the sea, sound of the ferry horn, church spire to the sky, sturdy house that has seen it all, everything that says Home. Thank you God. Ommmmm.
My own kitchen, and no noise or rocking, just me and the benevolent ghosts of time gone by. And since I’d done a lot of decorating before we left, we were pretty much ready!
AHHHHHHHH…. Home ~ our bed is pure heaven, cold rooms at night, snuggled under covers, mooshing the comforters around my ears, dragging my cozy flanneled legs out in the morning, stuffing my feet into wool slippers, throwing on an old sweater, padding down the stairs, Jack leading the way, tail high in the air, filling the tea kettle, deciding which cup. We are sitting, and we are staying. So this was Monday, our first day home. On Tuesday the dining room curtains came. On Wednesday it was Halloween. So let’s start with the curtains! Ready?
And of course, I know what you’re waiting for, in the category of “everything that says Home,” Jack, furry soft petty-pet and perfect decor. He seemed really happy to see us. Presented himself upside-down, in wiggle formation, for belly rubs, and gave me a very Loooooong forehead butt, a meeting of the minds, the brain exchange. So here are the new curtains for the dining room. And where does Jack choose to sit?
On them. And why not. King of the World can do no wrong. Reunited and it feels so goooood! 🎶 He’s still my shadow, he still brings back the hair ties, he still cuddles next to me when I read. Now Joe and I aren’t going anywhere for the next year and a half, we are 
I peeled Jack off and we hung the new curtains . . . (Jessica, who made them, with Lowely, my darling friend and neighbor)
And so voila, here they are! What do you think? I’m thinking the flowers make up for the ones we lost when we took the wallpaper down.💞
I’ve wanted “real” English curtains for sooooo long! They make you feel like you live on the inside of a marshmallow! We are now padded head to toe. I couldn’t wait for dark so I could light the candles!
They’re extra cozy because they’re completely lined in heavy flannel (just like the ones in England). They keep your house warm too.
Okay. So here was the problem and the reason I waited so long to show you the living room. I know you won’t think of this as a “problem.” With problems like this who needs enemies? Or whatever that phrase is. These are the curtains we got before we left and I’ve been pondering ever since. They are also very beautiful, thick and cozy, but for me, for the House of Creativity, for US? They feel a little much.
A wee bit too Duchess of Devonshire. I adore the fabric and love the pillows Jessica made to match, and I love the curtains too, they are glorious, but I was afraid after a while I might start doing the circular queen’s wave when I leave the house.
So we tried to tone it down (ps, they look pink in this photo, but they are really a soft beige with pink hydrangeas) . . . the first thing we did was take the decorative trim off the hems of the valances. Which softened things a little and took away some of the formality. This old house is your basic farmhouse with a barn and uninsulated pantry, the bathroom used to be a “three-holer,” and there are rooms you have to walk through to get to other rooms (i.e., no hall). It’s not a fancy house. It has “good bones,” as a dear friend said a long time ago, and also that New England simplicity I love. You have to give a house what it wants. And I try. But I think my imagination was bigger than my stomach, or what ever that saying is.
So next we tried removing the valances all the way. And I liked it SO MUCH BETTER. Back and forth we went, throwing out ideas, me, Joe, Jessica, and Lowely, with the tape 
measure, up the ladder, down the ladder, measure and pin and hold it up, stand back to see what it looks like, what if we get rid of the floral chairs? What if we change the lampshades? No stone was left unturned . . . and what we sort of decided is to keep the valances but bring them down so they aren’t all the way up to the ceiling, and then shorten the valance skirt by about 6 inches so it just covers the wood trim at the top of the window, to the first panes of glass. Make the valances lower and shorter is basically what we decided. And the other end of the room?
Here they are, the same fabric, but these are simpler and quieter.
Maybe I’m just bad at change! But I have to say, we’ve now been living with them for six days, and they’re growing on me. Most of my life I’ve made my curtains, so I’m used to unlined, crooked, half finished, a bit wrinkled, mostly made out of tablecloths, which is probably the problem! These are too good!
Jessica also made me a curtain for the guest room . . . Which I LOVE. Just a simple little thing, and pillows to match with a tiny blue and white stripe piping.
Just sweet and simple.
So then it was time to get ready for our Halloween party!
It was a pot-luck Halloween neighborhood Open House we were having, after the trick-or-treaters had gone home. Lowely brought cold slaw, Martha made a big pan of Corn Pudding, Carol brought a bowl of Dry Bones, Jaime came with a big green salad, and Barbara brought Brownies. I made Touchdown Chili and
A Pumpkin Trifle
Broken up chocolate cake on the bottom, then pumpkin mousse, then crushed oreo cookies, whipped cream, more chocolate cake, and more pumpkin mousse with a Hershey’s Syrup spiderweb on top!
While I was doing that, my boyfriend for life was outside in the driveway on that perfect fall day, carving away!
Making my favorite star pumpkins for our front porch.
offering me pumpkin seeds . . .
I came back in and did the dishes . . .
. . . then watered plants to stuff into baskets for arrangements for the house, swept the leaves off the porches . . . made sure all the votives and candle holders were filled . . . put Jack’s food and toys upstairs and locked him in our bedroom where no Halloween Cat thieves could find him . . .
We lit the fire,
And lit our ghost in the upstairs window . . . Casper is our “neighborhood watch,” he has a great view all the way up the street.
Bowls were filled with candy ~ We had hot spiced-cider for the moms and dads. We were READY! Bring on those kids! And here they come!
I love this tradition. Parents bringing their kids, waiting behind them, most of them in costume too … Look at this pink princess . . . Adorable or what?
We have friends who live so far out in the country they don’t get any trick-or-treaters ~we invite them to our house to give out candy at our door ~ we share the wealth ~ because, we definitely get kids! From all over the island . . . we are one of the few neighborhoods where the houses are close enough together for kids to get to without walking a mile in the dark! Halloween is huge on our island.
Is it ever! Early in the evening, at dusk, they’re very young, some even babies, in the cutest costumes, cows, and trees and bunnies, oh my!
As the night gets darker, the kids get older . . .
We stop them to take their picture, and they put up with our 10,000 questions!
By 6:30 our neighborhood is in full Halloween mode. The police close down the streets to cars. It’s not just us, up and down our street and around the corner, its a mad house! 🍁
I got my camera and came around out front to take photos of the door … loved the tree shadows on our house from across the street, whoooo! To see the pumpkins Joe made, I had to wait until the everyone moved aside . . .
Which took a little while . . . everyone running in the dark, superheroes and angels, clowns and unicorns, with bags of loot, laughing, chewing tootsie rolls and eating M&Ms!
Other than the one partially finished pumpkin I saw when Joe was doing them, I hadn’t seen what he’d done. I looked at that one in the middle! Whaaat?
And I got closer, laughing all the time. Went inside and Joe got a big KISS for this good surprise! Doing his part to make a cuter neighborhood, and a better world!
We had about thirty people for Chili dinner, and I was so busy eating and talking (receiving compliments on my new curtains!!!) I forgot to take pictures, but it was wonderful seeing everyone (remember, we just got back!) and it ended in the living room, where a girlfriend with a ukulele played while the dregs of the party (which would be us and some neighbors), had a sing-along. 🎃 It was a wonderful ending. And since it’s party season, here are a few ideas to make giving a party a bit easier. No matter if it’s a small party or large, formal or casual, Thanksgiving, tea party, book club, or election night party.
And, speaking of election night parties . . . Here are some delicious recipes, all tried and true, perfect for a roller coaster ride which this night is bound to be. Won’t it be FUN when
it’s over? Then we’ll all live with the results and can stop thinking about it for a while. And then we’ll get to do it all over again in two years! Politics seems to be America’s newest sport! I remember when I was in high school, I didn’t even know what I was! Or anyone else. I think my mom was a Republican and my dad was a Democrat, but they never argued and they both LIKED IKE! ‘Course the two political parties were 100% different then, and we didn’t have as much to worry about as kids do now, we were safe at school. It was a simpler and I would say a rather happier time. One of the many, many things on which we are all in perfect agreement, we all LOVE to eat . . . so let’s start HERE:
Yummy, from my Autumn Book . . . in case you have it at home, otherwise you can print this out!
These recipes are from Heart of the Home . . .
Wonderful spiced nuts from my Autumn Book . . .
. . . which I just made! I use them all season long!
Deliciousness from Heart of the Home. We’re going to my girlfriend Lowely’s house on Tuesday night to watch the results come in, I’m bringing Cheese Bites!
Opened my eyes from meditation, and across from where I was sitting, Jack was asleep on the sofa. 
I got the evil eye when I put the camera close . . . I SEE YOU, it says in green technicolor.
When we were in California, I picked up a box of my mom’s papers to bring home ~ I went through some of it this morning ~ it was a treasure trove! Saved birthday cards, old letters my grandma wrote, yellowed birth certificates and fancy engraved marriage licenses, hand-written report cards, and certificates of baptism, priceless to my mom, and priceless to me. Above, is a 91-year-old brushed LEATHER ribbon-tied folder with gold lettering, four pages of names and this . . .
. . . my Grandma’s Sioux City, Central High School Diploma from 1927. That’s her, below, on the left. Her class graduated only three weeks after Lindbergh flew the Atlantic non-stop to France! Those 
kids must have felt like their generation was going to own the world! Just a few days after they graduated, Lindbergh’s ticker tape parade was held in New York, which they listened to as a family on a radio the size of a refrigerator. I’m sure my grandma and all her 18-year-old girlfriends shortened their skirts, bobbed their hair, and danced the “Lindy,” . . . they were teenagers during the Roaring Twenties, Calvin Coolidge was president, F. Scott Fitzgerald was the literary star, The Jazz Singer came out in 1927, the first movie with sound! Only two years later, when she was 20, the Great Depression started. She’d already had one World War to deal with as a child. The cards were being dealt. Life was unfolding. And before she fell asleep in her house with a music room on the 3rd floor and nine brothers & sisters, she listened to the most popular song of 1927. I love history, and picturing people in their times. My Grandma shared the planet with Mark Twain for two years. She shared it with Anne Frank, and then she shared Anne Frank with me.💞 Now I have her diploma.
And this! It’s my great grandmother’s 1925 application to join the Martha Washington 
Chapter of the Daughters of the American 
Revolution in Washington, DC. Four pages of family names, births, and deaths back to 1710, all in her lovely handwriting … with “Ancestor’s Services” that tells that her 5th great grandfather (and I guess my 7th), Captain Asa Foster of Andover, Massachusetts, was appointed in 1765 to “oppose the arbitrary measures of the British Government.” Eeeek. My grandma had given me a copy of this when I was in my 20s (part of my dreamscape for New England before I’d ever been here), but it was very different to hold the real thing in my hands. After recently reading a biography of George Washington (Ron Chernow), I 
realized just how dangerous it was to come out against your government back then. If they’d lost (and there was no reason on EARTH they should have believed they could win against the British Empire!), they would have all been hanged! But hey, ya gotta do what ya gotta do and he believed in his cause. His son Abiel graduated from Harvard in 1756, was a minister who represented New Hampshire in the first Congress. I could write a book about these people! We found both of their graves, in Old North Parish Burying Ground in North Andover and in the Canterbury Cemetery in New Hampshire.
And this little slip of paper was in there too, written in my great grandfather’s hand, showing the 
dates of birth for his parents (my great, great grandparents), and their children. I met Merrill James 
Orr, born in 1871, the man who wrote this, the father of my grandma ~ that’s him holding me, my mom’s on the right, my grandma’s on the left. I feel the generations behind me, and I see younger members of my family going on into the future. Such a connection. And the threads of that connection go on and on, out in all directions. Pretty soon, as you research your family tree, you start thinking you’re related to EVERYONE. Then you get your DNA done and find out you absolutely are!
And now it’s my turn to save little old pieces of paper, tiny fragments of a lifetime of memories. I guess I got that from them! 💞 Like here, in the England diary I’m now illustrating and rewriting in my “good 
handwriting.” You can just imagine how much I revel in the magic I feel when I write, spellbound in the dream of it (hours and clocks mean nothing), about the history we found in Enchanted England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. My pages will be peopled by spirits of the past, Winston Churchill, Beatrix Potter, Jane Austen, hill forts, stone circles, and fairy winds . . . all that and Rachel too! I’ll do it as the leaves blow, as the snow flies, as the cat naps, and when the daffodils come again, I’ll still be here in my old house, fireplace glowing, shawl pulled tight, pen noises scratching, paint brush ringing on the side of the water dish I bought in Disneyland before I knew I could paint, Jack at my side, living the dream with my boyfriend for life, loving the road, because
I kept Joe’s pumpkin for our front window . . . like keeping a light on! Never forget our fathers and grandfathers fought for this right, so that today, no matter how we came to this country, we get a say in the kind of government 
we want. It was EVERYTHING to them, their lives were on the line, and there’s nothing quite like it in the world. The right to vote. Honor our ancestors. Go vote, and take someone with you. Don’t think you don’t know what you’re doing, because believe me, you probably know more than most! The world has fought for civility since time began, fought to overcome human nature prone to barbarism, it hasn’t been easy, but despite all, we keep bringing it forward, so families everywhere can live in peace and prosperity. They’ve told us that we have nothing to fear but fear itself, and proved it time and time again. Because we can solve all problems when we come together. I know they’ve made it hard to tell truth from 
lies, the water has been muddied, even on Facebook, where we put our family photos, and share recipes! But it’s not impossible. No source is perfect but we can find a balance. When I have specific questions, I go to websites like Politifact, a Pulitzer Prize-winning fact-finding website. They can answer almost any question, “Did such and such REALLY happen, Did he REALLY say that, Does America have open borders, What is the Caravan made up of, Which members of Congress take money from the NRA, Who IS (fill in the blank)” ~ even old questions, like “Did Iraq have weapons of mass destruction, what was the Fairness Doctrine, what happened when the banks failed?” On and on, they have researched it all. Huge help for lovers of history like me.
“All shall be well, all shall be well, all manner of thing shall be well.” 💞Julian of Norwich, the first woman in recorded history to write a book. And aren’t they the perfect words!
SO, we’re going off for a walk to the water, but before we go, as promised, last but not least, NEXT Saturday, Joe and I hop on the ferry to the Mainland for the day, where I’ll be at the West Falmouth Library answering questions, signing books, and reading the first chapter of Enchanted, just like I did at the Apple Farm in California. If you’re coming, or even if you’re not, click here and please print out this name tag/bookmark. Write your name on the bottom so we’ll know each other! And yes, for everyone who’s going to be there, you each will be getting a copy of your own first chapter. I’m sorry tickets for this event are sold out, but I promise I’ll be out again in the future, and we can try again. And if you remember, waaaaaaay back when I started this post, I promised YOU a giveaway! So here she is! To win, just leave a comment at the bottom of this post (you’ll see tiny gray words that say, “comment” ~ click there and say hello, and you will automatically be entered. And if your name is chosen, you will receive your very own signed copy of the first chapter my new book!
In fact, Kellee made me FIVE 23-page booklets, all just for you💞 . . . so, this time, there will be five winners! Yay!!! I hope one of them is YOU!
I wanted to start at The Beginning with a love story, like I did with A Fine Romance, so I did! I hope you enjoy it!
That’s it for today darling girlfriends. I shall return! Have a luv-lee evening. Keep the home fires burning!
I’m also in awe of the reality our forefathers faced when going against their country. How brave, how crazy! How magnificent! Thank you so much for the beautiful post – no matter how my day is going, your words always make me feel cozy, happy, like I can take on the world. Cannot wait for your new book. Xoxo
Thank you Nikki! Nice to hear from you!
Love your curtains & your pink rooms! Oh happy day. A truly awe-inspiring message to carry on & carry yo the voting booth! Positive thoughts will rule the day! Thank you Susan!
Hello to you, Susan. Yes, yes, yes we won’t forget to vote.
Wonderful!
This newest blog entry was exactly what my soul needed today. Thanks, Susan. Yesterday I heard Becca Stevens discuss her work for the last twenty years at Thistle Farm outside of Nashville, Tennessee, and was inspired to continue feeling a sense of hope. Susan, your posts do this for me, also. I look forward to reading your new thoughts and pictures about how good life can be. God bless you. Keep up the good work.
Lovely words Leathea, thank you!
Oh Susan, I kept looking at your page today just knowing there would be something special. Its a gorgeous day in the Blue Ridge mountains. Sunny in the 50’s and our color is peaking this weekend. A. Love the guest room curtain (simple) B. totally get the shock and adjustment to a decor change that sets you on your ear for a bit. C. I have a lovely friend in Falmouth, so if you do venture on the fairy again i am flying to see you no matter what!! Feel inspired and refreshed having read all your bits and bobs. Knowing a book is in the works is a joy. United we stand, divided we fall. Keep the faith .
Thank you Kimberly! xoxo
LOVED following you to California! Welcome home😁
I love reading all your blogs, such adventures you’ve had, you make me smile.
So wonderful to hear from you, Susan. You are our ray of sunshine.
Have to say I love all the curtains. Love the living room ones with the balance and the trim. You may get used to them. I agree change is hard….we are such creatures of habit. Welcome home!
Yup, I’m giving it the wait and see! Thank you Patti!
Dearest Susan, the home fires are burning as I read your lovely post about all the important things in life. I’m so glad the leaves left magic for you and Joe to enjoy. We’ve been away as well and were thrilled to return home to the reds, yellow and golden leaves! I do love your new curtains in the dining room. I find when I add a big change it takes a while for my soul to adjust to the sight I’ve seen for years. Your Halloween celebration is wonderful! Our neighborhood is all grown up now and we no longer have the ghosts and goblins come to our door. I’m looking forward to making your Spiced Pecans that have been a favorite in our home for many years now. Thank you for spreading love. Lord knows, it’s what we all need now! XOXO ♥
Me too, takes me a while, so pretty soon they will become invisible and I’ll just be happy! Love is the thing isn’t it Martha Ellen? xoxoxoxo
Hi Susan,
Your post is packed full of loveliness. I loved your new curtains and lined with flannel how cozy is that going to be this winter. I am a member of the Daughter of the American Revolution also. My patriot fought in the Revolutionary war in 1776. I would love to win your giveaway. I couldn’t come to your book signing in California, because my daughter canceled our trip. I wish I could have been there; it would have been a blast. I will be at your next book sighing in California, GOD WILLING. I am busy decorating for Christmas, and we will be enjoying our family of 15 for Thanksgiving. Thanks for posting today and I hope you are enjoying the last bit of Fall in Martha’s Vineyard.
Joyously,
Betty
Happy Decorating Betty . . . see you next time!
I always feel that everything is going to be okay after I read your
blog..especially this time. Just to curl up on the couch and read on is such a treat for all us girlfriends..like medicine in these trying times. Thank you Susan. Even for me in Southern Ca. my trees are turning and the winds are blowing..it’s still warm but evening are cool and next week temps are going to be fall like. Sending a big hug to all 3 of you xoxo
Happy to hear that Lana! You deserve it!
Would love to win the little first chapeter! Thanks for the great blog!
You are so welcome! xoxo
I am so excited that you are working on another book. I just finished reading your auto- biographical “trilogy” and am so excited that you are continuing your documentation via another book.
I’m excited to be doing it! Thank you Lisa!
Hello Susan,
Looking forward to meeting you Saturday!
Nancy
We’ll be there!
What a wonderful post! I needed this today. Thank you Susan! Oh…I love , love your curtains.
Many Happy Blessings to all during the upcoming holiay seasons. Travel safely,
live kindly and love greatly 🙂
Dear Susan, glad you are back and writing up a storm. I love your curtains. They look rich and warm and finish your rooms beautifully. I knew they would! I am so nervous about Tuesday, hoping all the early voters are tired of the lies, but was so disappointed in 2016. Was wondering, did I miss your shoutout to the November rabbit? 🐇
I think I let everyone else do it this month! Rabbit-rabbit! In 2016 a lot of us didn’t realize how deeply entrenched the lies had gotten into the people in this country. Now we have to learn to speak up when we find a lie, we just can’t sit here one minute longer, to our peril as a country. xoxoxo
Hi Susan,
Another touching and heartwarming blog. I too recently read the Chernow book on George Washington. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the founding of our country and the incomparable sacrifices made by so many. Thanks for showing your empathy for your fellow man and WOMAN. Not enough of that in the world right now. Continued success in all your creative expression.
Fascinating book. Loved it so much. Really turned GW into a human, which I think might have been a little hard to do considering the way he grew up, the choices he made, so independent, Martha for one, and the life he led. Thank you Hilary!
So happy to read your latest blog post today! It’s always a treat to read and see what you and Joe have been up to. I have some serious curtain envy going on! Lol,
Ha ha! xoxoxo
My girlfriend Ann and I love your books and blog. We are hoping for a book tour stop somewhere in Virginia or near Virginia, so we can finally meet you! Looking forward to reading Enchanted.
Maybe we will make it when Enchanted comes out!
As a Canadian I sometimes briefly wonder if it is my place to involve myself in the politics of neighboring countries. I then quickly remember our friendships, our ancestors, our history, our waterways, our airwaves and yes, even the social media that has brought us together, and I realize that this “global village” and its people, are our responsibility to love, cherish and protect, no mater where in this village we may reside. My heart is with you at this important moment in time. May peace, goodness and light prevail.
I don’t hardly see us as separate either, not as people anyway. We love Canadians, and feel attached, in more ways than one. Thank you for the kind words Nicole. xoxox
What a cozy post. Perfect reading for a Sunday afternoon.
My father passed away in August. He was 88 years old. My mom and I have been going through paperwork/photos/mementos and being reminded of his life and our lives together . We are blessed with all the memories he has left us.
Can’t wait for the new book.
I wear my Dad’s watch when I travel, and keep it next to the bed the rest of the time. At night I pick it up and push the button and it lights up, and there’s . . . my Dad! It’s wonderful you are able to feel those blessings, just as he would have wished. xoxoxo
Thank you. I heard a saying once: “If our loved one is with God and God is with us, our loved one is not very far away.” Our Dads are near and continue to love and guide us on our journey through life. I am glad you have your Dad’s watch. A very special gift.
xoxoxo
Thanks for a great blog. Feeds the soul. Enjoy those winter days to come as you create your new book. Looking forward to it!
The draperies are FABULOUS!! I think your adjustments to the living room corner drapes were spot on. And the dining room, would even match my blue things. Like water colors. So cozy for Winter! I love the little blue guest room drapes too!
Love the star ⭐️ pumpkin 🎃 every year! Love cheesy bites! ❤️ family history!!!
OXOX
Thank you Margot! It’s a change, that’s for sure! xoxoxo
I am reading again and that pumpkin trifle is making me hungry!
A lovely warm post Susan, thank you for a chance to win a chapter of your book.
Thank you for the graciousness you bring to all of us. Happy homecoming and homestaying to you and Joe and precious Jack.
Wow! A wonderful post I shall read and reread over and over. Welcome home to your safe harbor. Your kitty and home are sighing with joy to have you back. Your new drapes are just right…their beauty reminding you of your adopted home in England. English farmhouses abound in chinz and soft florals. Just right to remind us of sun and flowers to brighten our days. Believe me they are gorgeous and will bring you sunshine and flowers year round. Yes my family will be at the polls early on Tuesday to cast our votes for our America that has ALWAYS been great and hopefully a blue wave of kindness and understanding will sweep our great country clean of all this darkness and lies. Thank you for speaking out for what is good, kind and fair. Your voice matters. We all need to speak up. Now is the time. As Tiny Tim says…God bless us every one. Love you from Lin in Michigan
God Bless Us Every One . . . The lies have separated us. I fight them more than any political person. Other countries have lost their democracies in just this way!!! I say, Heck NO! We won’t go! 🤓 xoxoxo
Welcome home- glad some leaves waited for you. I think the foliage this year was the best and most beautiful I’d ever seen. My front yard was a fairyland of yellow, red, and orange from maple, birch, and heart shaped leaves from redbud tree.
Thank you Susan. Your new blog is beautiful and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your art and your thoughts with us.
Wonderful new blog post, a complete joy to read!! And I would loooooooove to read the first chapter of your new book!! Cozy Cheers!!
Welcome home! Reading the blog with a purry old girl kitty in my lap. It’s a perfect fall Sunday afternoon here with warm sun and enough breeze to have fluttering leaves. The new curtains are all so pretty. I love in the dusk to see lights glowing through windows in the evening, swagged curtains being the favorite window dressing for me. Thank you for the Politifact tip, so much sketchy “news” flying about! My favorite is the last quote, much like Dorothy and looking for her heart’s desire no further than her own backyard! Love ya Susan!
So true and there it is! xoxoxo
Welcome back to New England! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!🦃. Lynn Mc
Susan, Thank you for taking us along on your recent trip! I’m glad you’re back home. Rest assured, I WILL be voting on Tuesday, desiring to make a difference in my little corner of the world. Blessings to you!
Hi Susan,
I love that you’re home (although California misses you!).
I love that autumn was waiting for you and that you shared it with us.
I love all of your new drapes and find them perfect.
I love MV Halloween and would have enjoyed ringing your doorbell.
I love having the chance to win that precious first chapter.
And I especially LOVE the reminders about the rights and privileges of voting!! My ballot was mailed a week ago, and we’re looking forward to watching the results Tuesday night!
You’re the best! 🇺🇸🍁🌸❤️
I love YOU!
I first “met” you through Country Living magazine-I clipped your recipes, loved the illustrations. Would love to meet you-would you ever venture further into the greater Boston area? Have a warm and cozy Holiday Season!
Sometimes, but not as often as we should!
I love Joe’s VOTE Pumpkin. This election is the first of many that I will vote with my daughters. My youngest daughter, Ashley turns 18 tomorrow and is already registered. Emily is coming home from college to vote too, she is only 1/2 hour away so she kept her polling place the same. So very important to vote!
I love the curtains and the new paint color. Change is nice, even though it might take awhile to adjust.
Happy Fall!
Oh wow, 18 the day before the election! How darling you will do it together. It does feel like a family adventure to me too! Thank you Jeannine!
Your welcome Susan!
I loved reading your post. After a month long journey, you take time to enjoy the moment…the beautiful leaves. The photos of your new curtains are delightful. Whatever you decide to do will be perfect. And even if you do start waving like the Queen, no one deserves it more than you, our Queen of Domesticity.😘
Oh you little sweetie! 💋
Funny how you and I are the same age but my mother was the same age as your grandmother! My mom was class of ’27.
My mom had me at 17. And I think my Grandma was 21 when she had my mom.
So glad your home and tucked in after a wonderful trip across the land of the free…thank you for your lovely photos…so enjoyed traveling with you. Awaiting Tuesday…already voted…hoping for the best. Very tired of the tv ads – so negative – just want people to get out and support their candidate and their beliefs. Just feel blessed that we have that freedom. Living life to the fullest we can…as you do…and I do…is a way to bypass the negative aspects of what is going on. LOVE your books; can’t wait for the next one. Still waiting on PANCAKES…breakfast just happens to be my favorite meal.
As my family’s genealogist, I love that you have your Grandmother’s diploma. I treasure those mementos from my families history. My most cherished is my Great-Grandmother’s family bible on my mom’s side of the family and her father’s high school ring. Our families are our foundation, just like our founding fathers. What we do today is because of what they did before us.
I voted two weeks ago by mail.
You are so right! My grandma was our genealogist, although as you can see, she was inspired by her mom!
Wait–Carol brought Dry Bones to your party? What ARE these? And BTW, California misses you already!
They are a heavenly spare rib recipe in my Girlfriends book p. 73. xoxo
Welcome home! Enjoy your New England fall and the coziness of your home.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your dining room curtains. The living room curtains are truly lovely too. Give them time to grow on you. It’s all good.
Thank you so much for thinking of all of us. I feel the love.
Yes, a little time would be nice! I’m so happy you feel the love, because I feel it too! xoxo
Sundays are my homiest days – we do our weekly shopping at the farmers’ market (Southern California, so still going strong), go to the grocery store, cook and prep for the week, clean our home, wash laundry, and then settle down to a special Sunday dinner. It often feels like a lot of work while I’m doing it, but it’s so nice to enjoy a lovely dinner and sparkling home on Sunday night… I feel like I’m taking care of my future self. 🙂 When I saw that a new blog post of yours had come our way, it was a perfect break in the domestic blitz.
All the flowers of all the tomorrows are in the seeds of today! Happy seed planting! xoxo
I LOVE your new curtains and I would LOVE a copy of the new first chapter! I cannot wait for the book!!!
Happy Fall……
I thought I sent a comment but I can’t see it. So to make sure I have a chance at the first chapter, here’s another comment.
Love the curtains. Well cone!
As always I enjoyed your post. You are so lucky that your Mom kept so many things about her family history. So much of mine has been lost, not because of anything tragic, just that no one thought to keep it or pass it down. And I love your curtains!
Save a few things yourself, a few letters, a newspaper clipping, a diary. These things mean the world to future generations. xoxo
I’m afraid I might overwhelm the future generations with all that I have saved! But I’m hopeful that some of my nieces and nephews will find it interesting.
I’m trying to keep mine down to a dull roar for that exact reason!
I can’t wait to vote out here in CA!!!! And I am so excited about Enchanted! I own all your books!
xoxo
Christine
Loved your train travel tales and your happiness at being home again! Kudos to Joe for making that great VOTE jack-o-lantern!
I’ll tell him. He’s quite proud of himself! xoxo
So good to see a new blog post from you! I love your new curtains, but I’m like you; it takes a while for me to get used to something new. I think the adjustments you’re making will go a long way to making them feel a little more simple. In any case, beautiful fabric, beautifully done. Can’t wait to see the new look! Such a lovely home you have. I’m wondering…how much candy do you go through on Halloween?
Oh, your curtains in the dining room (actually the whole room!) look stunning! I love the pink walls!! Everything looks so homey and inviting. Perfect!
We also have tons of Trick-or-Treaters in our neighborhood. We all sit out in our front yards because they come in droves! My little nephew got to come over this year. My son and his girlfriend took him for his first Trick-or-Treating! He’s our little joy! (Pretend grandson!!) I like to make treats for my grown-up friends that stop by as well: cupcakes, rice crispy treats, Halloween Chex mix, etc. Sugar shock for sure!
Anyway, loved getting to sit here and read your blog on this lazy Sunday afternoon – while drinking our of my pumpkin cup. I think it might just be my favorite one yet! But, before long, Santa will take its place. Getting excited to put some decorations on my camper this year. I bought a few yesterday! Hee hee!
Enjoy the rest of fall! <3
Hi Susan,
I can’t tell you how much I relate to your “Fairy Tale Girl” and “Isle of Dreams” books. I am a year younger than you but until your books thought I was the only one not understanding that the “times they were a’changing” back then. A very difficult time. Thank you for all you have written and thank you for being you!
God bless!
-Liz
Yes, it was difficult and we were always so mad at ourselves for not quite getting it. But it was CONFUSING! Not our idea, and not our fault! I’m so glad you liked the books Liz, thank you!
LOVE the “vote” pumpkin Joe carved! I’m filling out my ballot (but had to check your blog first, and there you were with a new post! Yay!) this afternoon and dropping it off at the polling place near me on Tuesday. So glad you are home and that the leaves waited for you. Enjoy your domestic bliss…and just since voting is on my mind…I’ll cast my vote on the curtains, a resounding “Yes!” to the curtains! They look great and cozy everything up nicely! XXO
Yay! Love your vote! xoxoxo
Welcome home! Love the new curtains. You will be snug.
The Julian of Norwich quote -All shall be well, All shall be well ” . . . is wonderful right about now. I mailed my ballot several days ago and fingers crossed — Holding my breath a bit.
Loved reading about the curtain drama 🙂 Hope you will soon reach a state of contentment. I loved them in all aspects. I’d sure love to win the little “first chapter of the book” book. But never mind, I’m in such an ecstatic mood today, down the Queen rabbit hole again.
Had a date with my son Max to see the movie Bohemian Rhapsody AND PLEASE listen Everyone, and Anyone — if you like their music, don’t let the snarky critics dissuade you from seeing this movie. The music is so well done, Rami Malek and all the actors are quite wonderful. I can’t get enough of all the comments on YouTube channels related to it. This movie is going to bring all types and generations of people together in so many ways, just like your books Susan. That’s my great hope for it.
This lovely post from you, Susan, just tops off the weekend for me. Loved the Artie Shaw Musica. Used to play the clarinet! 🙂 Haven’t gotten around to eating yet today. I better do something about that before I pass out . . . 🙂 If nothing else some tea or coffee in my Jack the Cat cup. Thanks again for the lovely post.
LOL, curtain drama. If you would have seen the three of us running around trying things out you would know “drama” was quite right. More like situation comedy! I think I began contentment when I finished this post. Now, my art table beckons and I enthusiastically reply, I’m coming! Wish I could learn how to forget to eat! Thank you for the movie suggestion!
It’s a rare occurrence believe me.
Ha ha!
I adore your new curtains! I keep looking at curtains but haven’t made the leap yet. I have to agree there is no place so wonderful as home. Even when I’m visiting my nephew and his two adorable little boys and spoiling them as much as I can it still feels wonderful to come home and yes, sleep in my own bed. Looking forward to the new book-patience is not my strong suite, I might add. Always love reading your blogs and looking at the photos you shared. Last evening I attended my 45th high school reunion – so great to see so many classmates that had moved away and some that stayed local. Memories of a simpler time and of classmates that have passed on. You did find a treasure trove with the papers from your grandmother! I have old photos from my Dad’s parents that go back to the mid 1800’s and its such a treat to put faces with names I’d found doing my genealogy research. Enjoy your time at home and keep posting!!
I can’t wait for this new book you are working on. However, you have made me a selfish person, all by yourself . I will NOT lend any of my books to friends in case they spill ketchup or malt vinegar or something on one of the pages. They are my treasures !! You fill me with enthusiasm each time I read one of your thingies. Thank you….hi to your forever boyfriend !!
Carolyn
I loved getting a glimpse of your England diary “in the raw” and I can’t wait for Enchanted. Thank you for sharing your art, and your happy gene, with the world.
Loved reading your blog on this beautiful Sunday in Texas.
Everything about your home is beautiful, cozy, and just enchanting!
Blessings,
Emma
Your new curtains and pink walls are beautiful! Nothing says “England” like large florals. We lived in an old house in England that had floral wallpapers and curtains in almost every room. Some people would think it a bit much, but I loved it! Would love to win one of those first chapters!
Dearest Susan, Thanks for a beautiful post on a gorgeous fall day. Love the dining room and the simplified new curtains in the living room. You know we had all been waiting for the unveiling! In the mood for cozy now and you have inspired me to wrap up in sweaters and a cat. And we will all VOTE in honor of those in our past who did not have the right to do so!! ( and in honor of those men and women who have and are keeping us free to vote) Love, BB
Can’t wait for your new book. Throw my name into the hat for the first chapter!!
I love the part about Sioux City, since that was my home town, too! My father graduated from Central High School in 1936 (they called it “The Castle on the Hill”). His classmates were Dear Abby and Ann Landers (Eppie and PoPo,the Friedman twins). They always came back for reunions, and loved the fuss. My mother had to drop out of high school to get a job selling candy at the drugstore. (It was the Depression) She was from Lithuania, and lots of immigrants made Sioux City their home, and slaved in the packing plants. Speaking of immigration, I’m crossing my fingers that western Iowa regains their sanity and elects a decent representative. (Not a racist bigot)
Could not agree more. That nasty man, I feel very much connected to Sioux City and would hate to think that any of my relatives, even if I don’t know them, would be represented by HIM. Erk! My Grandma mentioned Abby and Ann! Small world! xoxo
Another beautiful post, Susan! Just right for a chilly November Sunday! Thank you!
My grandmother was a member of DAR and I have and cherish all her paperwork. Apparently I am descended from pirates.
Love your curtains, your enthusiasm and all you do. Our leaves ( which I have been trying to rake for the last week) are now hidden under 4 inches of snow.
Pirates!!! Snow!!!! 😲
Cozy, cozy, warm and bright. Welcome home and thanks for taking us with you.
Hello from the Bay Area. We are ready to vote on Tuesday .i love the vote pumpkin
Today is a bit gray at the moment, but my Asian Maple is a blaze of red. Too bad I can’t send you the picture. Enjoy being home. ❤
What a post! HOMEcoming, HOME decor, HOME cooking, parties at HOME, and things that ‘came HOME’ with you.
I am in awe of your family treasures! I’m at the very beginnings of my own family history – genealogy can sometimes seem almost “mundane” just names, dates, places. BUT to hold those things your ancestors recorded or acquired in their lives is simply beyond description. You feel so connected to the past and your roots, etc.
Thanks so much for this post! AND also for your ‘political’ commentary — we need to hear more of these positive things instead of the vitriol we are exposed to on other media – you are the best!
Genealogy works a lot better if you let your imagination run wild! When you see a date, find out what other things were happening at the time, and suddenly your ancestor comes alive! Plus, extra benefit, history of the world! 😘 Thank you Rosanna! xoxoxo
Happy Fall!
You lost me with the words “fairy winds.” Sounds magical, serene, and something I want to feel next time I step outside ! Looking forward to all my future windy days ! Just me and my shadow … and the fairy winds !!!!
Found them in Ireland! xoxo
Hi Susan,
I was soo sad to have missed your book signing at The Apple Farm. That was the first book signing that I missed! But I always look forward to your posts and the beautiful pictures that you share with us. I love all of your curtains, your house is just lovely! And I can’t wait until Enchanted makes it’s debut! But for now, I wish you and Joe a wonderful Fall/Winter. Thank you for everything that you share with us. You inspire me! xoxo
Nice to hear from you Donna! See you next time! xoxoxo
Perfect post for the fall day! I recently gave my great niece (age 10) a ring that belonged to her great grandmother (actually my sister-in-law’s mother). Forgot I even had it. The wonder of her face was priceless. She will treasure it.
I missed the last part of Twitter from the Train, but it’s been good to catch up. Jack will be happy now that it’s only the odd day trip here and there for you and Joe.
I, too, have been working my way through a box or two of old family documents, mostly out of necessity. Some of the things I have found are so full of history, but none going back so many generations as yours! What a wonderful find to treasure. I found some fascinating seventy year old letters which actually say more about us today than the words convey!
I love the fabric of your curtains a lot and think you have made all the right choices and decisions. My curtains need replacing, and as a seamstress I am obliged to make my own, so if you hear me screaming you’ll know why! Curtains look a lot easier than they are!
Please put my name in the hat. Outside chance, but you never know.
~~~Waving~~~Deb in Wales xoxo
LOL, if we hear you screaming, we’ll know why! xoxoxo
This afternoon I made a pot of broccoli cheese soup, then had a cup of tea (in my Autumn mug) while reading your new post. Beautiful Fall day-crisp air, blue skies and golden/red trees.
Love the new curtains, but especially the guest room. So sweet! Halloween looks wonderful on your island! Imagine the memories all those families are making!
We lived in Vermillion, SD for a year (1995). We would have to drive to Sioux City for most of our shopping; we would make a day out of it-shopping, eating out, walks by the river, antique stores or just the mall. Did your family ever venture up to Vermillion. We loved living in that part of the country, friendly neighbors, safe, good cost of living. We would have liked to stay longer, but John’s job took us back to CA. On the bright side, that’s when I was able to go to nursing school!
I recently requested an application for the DAR! I found an ancestor who was in the Militia, the 8th Regiment in New Hampshire, 1778! I have to do more research though, still, its exciting!
Christie and I had such a wonderful weekend at Apple Farm. Our twitter book club is hoping you do another event at Apple Farm; the more GF’s, the merrier!
I’ll be putting my mother in law in her wheelchair and pushing her right up to that voting booth on tuesday; then we’ll celebrate at our favorite tearoom.
Bless you, Susan. Your words and art are a balm to a weary heart
How fun Sharon, both the DAR and your MOM! Give her a BIG hug for me! We didn’t get up to Vermillion, how wonderful you were able to live there for a year. I love midwest people, feel at home there, feel them in my soul. I’ll be back to Apple Farm for sure. They are wonderful people in more ways than one. Your words, Sharon, the same to me, a balm. Thank you. I love my girlfriends! xoxoxoxoxo
Thanks once again for a soul lifting blog. You are an amazing woman and I am proud to know of you. May you be as happy as you make me.
😢 xoxoxoxoxo
This Veterans Day marks the 100th anniversary of the end of World War 1. Vote to honor those young Americans, who never returned home from “the war to end all wars”.
Hope you and Joe will be doing more book signings. Susan Branch and the musical, Hamilton, are the hardest tickets to get on the east coast!
I must confess. I have curtain envy!
Happy November
Oh Susan, those new drapes are just so beautiful. And all the back and forth has made them perfect. But as perfect as they are, I really love the blue and cream(?) ones in the guest bedroom.
What a lovely train ride home, and so glad you got to see some of your colourful leaves. We’ve had a few gusty days here on Vancouver Island so a lot of our golden red leaves are now on the ground. We do have a lot of green shrubbery around that lasts throughout the year so this makes up for the bare trees. I’m sure Jack is so happy to have you home. Even when we only go to the grocery store our cat, Masie, is so happy to have us back.
Dear Sweet Susan,
I always enjoy your posts when you and Joe are off spreading love and inspiration.
Wether in Great Britain or in my great state of California or any of the places in between, I love traveling with you. BUT, I love it best when you are at home. Reporting from the House of Creativity on things celebrated big and small. And now that I’ve been to your majestic, charm filled island, I see your pics and gleefully say “I know where that is!”
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the ways you encourage me to seize and spread joy in all of its many, many forms.
❌⭕️❌⭕️,
Tawni Urrutia in Lodi, Ca
Thank you darling Tawni! It’s wonderful to be home. I guess going to other places is what makes Home even more wonderful!
I Love you, your heart and everything you so graciously share with us, your new pink room and curtains are beautiful …….. xo
Your house looks beautiful with its fresh paint and new curtains.
I loved all the Halloween night pictures. Can’t wait for your new book.
Oh, Susan, what a beautiful blog. Much needed during this politically crazy time! Wouldn’t it be wonderful if, no matter which party was in control, all our representatives voted the issues and voted for what was best for Americans, rather than always voting their party, no matter if it hurt the citizens. Ok, I will get off my soap box. I think your new curtains are beautiful and make your home look cozy(er). I got goosebumps looking at your great grandmother’s original application for the DAR! How fortunate you are to have and preserve that part of history in your family. And I love the picture of your grandmother as a young girl. Sometimes it’s hard to picture or realize that an older relative was once young, with hopes and dreams, just like we were. I have pictures of my 98 year old mother as a teen, jitterbugging and roller skating with such happiness showing on her young face. And she tells me, often she still feels young inside, like that girl. Again, thank you for your new blog! xoxo
Your mom is 10 years older than mine, you are so lucky to have her!
I’m just glad to have the opportunity to shout out a big HELLO to all the girlfriends and a few fellows and say HOLD your breath- the political tussles are almost OVER! We can go back to talking Art, Nature, Friends, and Family and watch as our Sweet Sue finishes up her Enchantment. Love, GrannyAnnie
I think the folks in Iowa and New Hampshire are getting ready for presidential-hopeful onslaught the day after this elections!🤣 xoxoxo
Hi, Susan,
Gotta love Fall and Kitties. we have a 20 pound yellow kitty, so funny and heavy. And I might add the smartest kitty I have ever had.
Also the fall leaves. already pressed a lot of them, I do this every year. Sometimes I frame them. Richard brought me in two perfect red ones today, I think I will frame just those two and put them in a small frame and date it. Good idea right?
Anyway glad your home, don’t like it when you go wondering about.
Look forward to the drawing and as usual expect to win. Can always hope.
Your PAL Nancy Jo
So happy that you and Joe could be doing more book signings. Susan Branch events and Hamilton, the musical, are the hardest tickets to get on the east coast!
I confess to curtain envy! Happy November!
HA HA HA! Love that Grace, I would LOVE to see Hamilton!!! xoxoxox
I just want to say how much I appreciate that you are using your platform to speak out about politics. It would be lovely if the only things we needed to worry about were getting our beautiful new curtains just right and hosting parties with yummy food, but sadly that is not the case at present. But I love that you’re sharing your happy moments with us as well, because they do bring a smile to my face. I am a long time reader of your work – since your very first book in 1986 – and I am grateful to finally have this chance to tell you how much your art, your recipes, and your stories have enriched my life. Thank you, Susan, for all that you do to make the world a better place.
It would be wonderful, but we are more than that. Women are the world, as I see it, the moms, the heart and goodness, and I say we should spread more of us around! Thank you for your kind words Kim, I’m so happy to hear from you! XOXO
Welcome home
Welcome home! The tweets from the twain were fun as always. Excited for the book to be published, and a little teaser would be great to win! Happy Holidays from Alabama …
What a wonderful post, Susan. We need an uplifting post during this difficult time. Thank you so much.
Hello Susan,
I live in the Ojai Valley in So. California. It’s a kind of Mediterranean desert around here. But finally, after 30 years of planting trees around our house, we now have trees that turn color!. Autumn Gold leaves are falling and lots of red berries and bright red pomegranates line our driveway…thanks for all your inspiration! Dixie
Hi Susan-
Was just cozying up with a cup of tea near the fire when I saw your post.
Welcome back and the curtains look lovely. Right off they reminded me of your watercolors so no wonder you were drawn to the fabric. I can understand your original concerns about them being too formal. I live in an older home, too, and that can always be a challenge! Drawing them back like you did on the other side of the room, offers a more informal look but either way they are elegant and not pretentious. You can always use the valences elsewhere or put them back up if you’re doing a formal high tea!
Btw, I thought of you today as I was making some tea earlier. On the outside of the bag packet, they had a lovely quote: “There is no trouble so great or grave that cannot be much diminished by a nice cup of tea. Bernard-Paul Heroux, 1900’s Basque Philospopher”. Wouldn’t that be lovely to see on one of your future teacups!
Love it! xoxoxo
We have had a beautiful in Eastern Washington. So looking forward to the election to get the ads off of television; so tired of all the lying and accusations. Thanks for the tip about Politifact – I can definitely use it.
Dear Susan,
Thank you for sharing and taking us along on your adventures. Fall is my favorite time of year…i was born in October. I enjoyed the photos of your home and Halloween party, how fun! It’s nice to know we all share decorating struggles, but with a little help from our friends, it always comes together. The quote you mentioned is a perfect inspiration to us all, “write what should not be forgotten. We might not all be writers or illustrators, but I found that keeping a journal and jotting down sweet remembrances, words, thoughts, blessings and things we are grateful for, is something that each of us can do. I love the surprise you provided with the first chapter booklets. I would be delighted to receive one so I send you a “thank you” in advance for providing a giveaway for all of us to enter for a chance to receive one of these treasures. Take care and many thanks.
What a long very lovely newsy letter! Thank you for a trip to your house.
Such a wonderful pre-election night post!! I, too, will go to friends’ house for election night results viewing …. snacks and drinks…..and warmth of friendship….I did tell them, if the voting results are a bit wonky, I would have to go home to my bed and hide under the covers!!
i loved reading about you being homey home….enjoy the rest of autumn, working on your book, being with friends…..let’s all touch bases after Tuesday….
sending love
Thank you for listening to me begging and nagging on Twitter for pictures of the curtains. Actually, I think the full valance and drapes looked wonderful. But I am not you and I am not standing in your living room. You must make your heart happy and get the look you like The fabric is lovely. I like the pillows too.
The dining room is outrageous. Those curtains are perfect. All your new curtains are perfect, cozy, so homey, and will keep you so warm this winter.
Thank you again for your blog. It always makes me smile.
This Halloween I stole/ borrowed someone else’s idea and made all the big kids tell me a joke. What is the loneliest cheese? ..provolone!
Thanks for your political views, reminding us how important it is to vote, to be hopeful, to be happy. Drinking from your cups each morning starts my day with a smile and a huge cup of coffee. Love you tons. Thanks for being you.
My pleasure with the nagging and begging! 🤣 What a cute idea for Halloween! Love you dear! xoxo
Dear Susan, every time my hubby talks to our kids he tells them to VOTE. I love your new curtains. It’s always fun to freshen things up a bit. I love older homes. But my hubby and I can barely change a light bulb. Let alone keep up an older home. Good luck at your talk. We are up here in east bay. Wish we could have seen you at Apple Farms. It’s one of my favorite places. Have a beautiful Fall. 🍂🍁
Thanks so much for catching us up again on your warm and cozy life. Wish we could catch up with you more often. I’m keeping a “vote” sign in my window also!
I was so thrilled to see your new curtains ( isn’t it funny the simple things that makes one happy)! I love them, they make your dining room look like a cozy country Inn. The tops of the windows are beautiful without the valances.Happy fall!
Oh Susan, thank you for this! The perfect charm for this cold, drizzly, blow-y November day in the midwest. ( But I love days like this too.) I loved reading about everything, your beautiful new curtains, your gorgeous trees, your trick or treaters, and dear Joe’s VOTE pumpkin, and that you’re keeping it lit in your window. Going early to vote on Tuesday, and hoping for a big Blue 83rd birthday present for Wednesday. Cheers!
Happy almost Birthday Sheila! 💙
Hello! Love all the family history, treasures for sure. Patiently waiting for your next book which will be another treasure in my Susan Branch collection.