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!
have always wanted those English curtains. lucky you to find someone to make them. I tired them myself many years ago and just came up with a mess. I think you made the right choice to remove the valance. they look great.
Thank you, Anne! xoxoxo Try this website: http://www.curtainsmadesimple.co.uk
Oh, please! Let it be me! I’d love to win the first little taster of the book to come! So exciting!
On another note, I have been meaning to ask you if you’re familiar with the song “Happiness is a Thing Called Joe”? The version I know is sung by Keely Smith. I think it’s from the Swing era. Perfect for you and your “boyfriend forever”.
Hugs to all
Laurie
=:3
Oh yes, he gets sung to all the time! (When he’s good!) xoxoxo
Welcome home!! There really is no place like home and yours always seems so magical!! We just moved home to the States, after 3 years in Nova Scotia, to be near family as we’re expecting our first baby!! And can’t wait to find a new house and make it a home. I wish you would do a book signing in the DC/MD/VA area but would love to win one of your first chapters!!
Here you are dear Allyson, just so you know . . . xoxoxoxoxo Baby!!!
Hi Susan, sorry I keep submitting this, it seems to be disappearing instead of saying it’s awaiting moderation so I hope it doesn’t show up several times…
Welcome home!! There really is no place like home and yours always seems so magical!! We just moved home to the States, after 3 years in Nova Scotia, to be near family as we’re expecting our first baby!! And can’t wait to find a new house and make it a home. I wish you would do a book signing in the DC/MD/VA area but would love to win one of your first chapters!!
I wrote this as a reply to your wonderful news . . . I think you should be able to see it. WordPress seems to have changed it’s format and apparently it’s no longer saying “awaiting moderation” and instead just putting things up, but still waiting for me to read them. I just went to “comments” from the blog and your comment was there . . . let me know if you can’t see it . . . in the meantime, this was my reply:
I’ll be down there Allyson, probably when your baby is about a year old! You’re having a baby!!!🍼👼🐥 Isn’t that wonderful! I hope you can nest in your new house to your heart’s content. 💞 Congratulations. I’m sure your family is ecstatic!
luv that pumpkin….so clever
Love your decorating style. New dinning and living room drapes are winners, especially with the flannel backing for your cold winters.
Would love to receive the first chapter of your newest book which I will be ordering when available. Will keep my fingers crossed.
Hope you win Mare! xoxo
Welcome Back!
I have been too busy with work and returning to college (after 30 years) that I have missed recent adventures! The good news is, I actually LOVE having so much to catch up on so I can sit down and relax with a cup of tea, a cozy blanket, and my special kitties Elvis (16 yr Siamese), Milo (2 yr Siamese) and our newest edition, Aengus (6 month Orange Tabby). I need to add in “catching up” to my homework load 😉 Happy Autumn Blessings!
Returning to college! You brave girl! How wonderful! xoxoxo
Welcome home! ♥️♥️♥️ It’s always fun when you share your adventures. Living in Florida our fall colors come in the shape of license plates as the snowbirds head to warmer climate. To satisfy our need for fall color, my daughter, daughter-in-law, and I are heading to Chattanooga on Friday for a long weekend. We’re looking forward to a lovely trip. Then back to the sunshine we love so much. Looking forward to more of your adventures throughout the holidays. You are so good about sharing with your girlfriends. Thank you.
Hi Susan, I so enjoy reading about your life. It is so fall outside and I appreciate your comments so I can enjoy it more. Thanks for enlarging life. Happy Fall.
Thank you for the fun and interesting post! You and that photo of your Grandmother in the swim cap look so much alike. We are so much more connected to our ancestors than we think.
When we’re little we think 100 years is a long time!
Hope it’s not too late to enter…I’m a new reader, having just discovered your older book about England. I cannot wait to read the new one, and I always enjoy your blog posts in the meantime. Pet the kitty for me! And thank you!
You’re right on time, Odette. Welcome to the neighborhood! xoxo
Hi Susan! I can hardly wait for your book to come out next year! I am in love with England! My father came to America from Liverpool, England with my grandparents in 1957 on board the RMS Queen Mary that now resides in Long Beach California! (you were born there right?) It is an amazing story to say the least! I went back to England this past June and reconnected with my family in Liverpool. I am doing research and interviews to write this amazing story. My dad actually went to school with John Lennon when they were kids too! You have definitely inspired me Susan. I love your style of journal writing. When I was in England with my 15 year old daughter this summer, we had our journals with us everywhere we went! Thank you for your inspiration Susan, your amazing!
Yes, I was, born in Long Beach. I’ve stayed on the Queen Mary too, the one your dad came over on! Have fun writing about him. I’m thrilled your daughter is keeping a diary. It’s just a great thing to do, you never know where it might lead you in later life. xoxo
I am so sorry I missed you during your California Trip. I still have your original Cookbook which my Mom purchased for me many years ago when you participated in the Santa Barbara CALM Author’s Luncheon. Mom is gone, but the cookbook remains in my collection.
Those little memories are forever. xoxoxo
Love your VOTE pumpkin! And sweet Jack. THank you for the beauty of your posts…sure need it in todays world.
Welcome home! Love your blog. Always brightens my day.
It must be so wonderful to be home again, there is nothing like autumn in New England! Loving your curtains, I too have been dreaming of English curtains so that might be my next venture! I also love hearing about your family tree, you actually look so much like your grandma, she was beautiful and your mom as well. I hope someday you write a book about your mom and dad, they were such a beautiful couple and married so young! Thanks for all your lovely blogs!
Hi ms susan look forward to your perspective on life and love you two help uplift the soul.
Terri
Dearest Susan, what a deliciously long and inspiring blog you’ve gifted to us!! I kept scrolling and scrolling, and there was more and more, and I was beside myself with happiness!! And those precious pictures of Jack . . . I could just eat him up in the blink of an eye! I’m thrilled for you that you had such a wonderful trip out West, but I certainly am glad that you’re home (and staying there for a long while!) and sharing the treasures of your heart with us through your wonderful photos and sweet paintings and comforting words. I’ve missed you so much! Thanks for grounding me once again in the things that really matter in this life.
My husband and I recently returned from a trip to France, which we thoroughly enjoyed . . . . but it was oh, so sweet to return home once again! Add to that the joy of finding out that my much-anticipated first grandchild (in March!) is a little boy!
Thanksgiving will soon be here, and I am thankful for your generous spirit, and the joy and beauty that you so happily share with all of us. Thank you for reminding me of brilliantly colored fall leaves, warm and fuzzy kitty love, the joy of happy children and good friends, a cozy home with lovely curtains and bright windows, family history and domestic bliss. xoxoxoxoxo
It’s a boy!!! Congratulations Patti! And welcome home! All sounds luv-lee in your world! xoxoxo
Hi Pat… you are in my area and I wondered if you had blog problems…. been trying to post for days without success .
A few months ago there was a glitch where someone else’s name was at bottom and had to be changed to mine. Now I can’t seem to go through at all
Kathie from Limerick
Your comments are going through Kathie, WordPress seems to have changed its format and apparently it’s no longer saying “awaiting moderation” ~ instead it’s just putting things up, yet still awaiting moderation, which is me reading!
Hi Pat… I was wondering since I am from Limerick, if you are having any trouble posting on blog…. been trying for days and won’t go through
Hi Kathie, I just checked and your comments are up!
Each one of your blog posts is like a short story, you pull us right in with you no matter where you are, what a treasure you are.
Wonderful entry and curtains. Irene
Your blog is such an inspiration to me. Cant wait for the new book.
Welcome home! I think your new pink dining room is lovely.
I love Susan Branch! Her books make me happy!
Welcome Home! So glad the trees saved their leaves for you to enjoy.
It’s so nice that there are so many of us who cherish the simple blessings of a warm home…and England and Scotland too!! Many thanks!
Hello Susan, love your curtains. Happy Fall!🍁🍂🍃
Oh Susan – what a joy you are! I’m reading Isle of Dreams and you can’t begin to know how it resonates with me! Thank you for your happiness and wisdom and beautiful art and the love you share with us all!
I’m soooo happy you like it Christie! xoxo
Hello, all the way from a wet and windy England! We have lots of beautiful colours here in the Cotswolds. I love reading your posts Susan. So inspirational! Sending lots of love. ❤️
You have beautiful everything in the Cotswolds, Antonia! Thank you for saying hello! xoxo
Hello. (second try)
Hello Susan, from California Central Valley. Wishing you a happy fall.
Happy Fall!
One of your BEST Blogs ever…I could feel the excitement of being home and the smell of the sea. The curtains without a doubt looked better without the valances. I never knew your house was a farmhouse. Thanks again Darla
Hi Sue! I left you a message on Twitter…I am coming on Saturday! I am SO excited I can hardly settle down! Can’t wait to see you!….um, and Margot? 🙂
xo Tracy
Hi Tracy! How wonderful! You got a ticket! Not Margot this time, but definitely Joe! See you Saturday. I’m so excited!
Yay!!!!!
❣️Hello❣️ Hello❣️ Hello❣️
❤️ Melissa
One of my favorites ever!!! Thanks for sharing all your family history and so much, much more!
Your blog entries are like getting a special surprise in the mail! Thank you for doing what you do.
I am glad you can find the time to do all the things you love to do and
do so well and are willing to share with everyone.
I like to see us all together . . . makes me feel less alone! xoxo
Believe me you are never alone! Someone is thinking of you every second of every day! xxoo
😘 awwww! xoxoxo
I must say that I really love the valences on your curtains, I think they make your house look warm and cozy!
Thanks for all the wonderful pictures of fall – my favorite time of the year! And also the ones of Jack! I love how he tucks his little paws in that one picture – adorable!
Oh, Susan! Thank you for another delightful post! I love your mementos of family and years past! I am researching my family history and I am thrilled to find wonderful photos and documents about my family of long ago. I feel it is a way to honor and get to know my family from generations ago. Thank you for sharing your Halloween joy and lovely curtains! Your posts always bring warmth to my heart!
Wonderful to remember Fall Leaves when I lived in the East a kid.
Thanks for sharing so many pictures!
California girl now 😉
I am so excited about your new book. Can’t wait to see it!
Hi Susan!
Your home looks so beautiful surrounded by the autumn leaves! I love seeing pictures of Jack… he is so sweet with his little mustache.
I really enjoy rereading Island of Dreams in the fall… it makes me so excited to decorate and tidy up. I love the chapter when you decide to buy Holly Oak… discovering the blueberry bushes and the bird feeder you’d like to rescue…the jars of jam from Agnes that are your perfect basement decor. I always laugh OUT LOUD when I read the part about dating the guy called “Goat.” I feel like we could be friends. Your stories always remind me to be strongly independent and to find the happiness in the simple things. Thank you for being you and for sharing so much of your heart and home. <3
Beautiful words Jess, warm the cockles of my heart. You made me laugh too, when you said “Goat!” Can you imagine? xoxoxo
Thank you Susan for another joyous, inspiring and downright interesting post!
From the land where it is springtime, I wish you a Happy Happy Autumn!
So funny, the last post was from Melbourne!!! Happy Spring Heather!
So many lovely topics in this post. I especially enjoyed your family history treasures. It’s very important to keep these little bits of our families’ histories.
I love researching my ancestors who came to Australia from Cornwall, Ireland, Scotland and other parts of England.
I keep picking up “A Fine Romance” to re-read. Just love it! Eagerly looking forward to “Enchanted”
All of your curtains are beautiful, Susan.
Happy days to you and Joe.
Happy Spring, Betty! Love hearing from you!
Hi Susan, Halloween looked magical in your photos. It was a great night. We got a lot of trick or treaters because the houses in the village of Sandwich are closer together.just like your street. Enjoy being home. Diane
I adore Sandwich! Lucky you Diane!
Dear Susan–Wow Lady you sure have been busy. I love to do some decorating now and then. I love all of my furniture, so much is from family. That leaves paint, rugs and window treatment as the only changes I make. Oh yes once in awhile I need to recover something.
Did you see the photos of the quilts I made with your fabrics? I had sent them to California.
I did Pamela!!!! That was wonderful! Thank you! xoxoxo
Hi Susan. Enjoy being home! We had lots of kids stop by at Halloween. Our house in Sandwich is also a spot where the houses are closer together.
I am so sorry I missed you at the Apple Farm. I was on my way to the Pumpkin
Festival in Half Moon Bay. I have become a rail rat because of you. I am 83 and
travel by train to see my family and friends. Thank you for turning me on to this
wonderful way to travel and see the beautiful sights of California.
Received my apple cup and enjoy using it each morning.
We’ll probably be seated at the same table in the dining car some day! xoxo
hello susan
so look forward to your posts! a bright light in my day and hopefully one of these days I will win one of your wonderful surprise gifts! look forward to your new book – will probably read it many times as I have your others!!!
L. Bindu
Can’t wait for the new book, Susan! You are my present-day, Gladys Taber. Reading your blog posts are therapy! Thanks for these beautiful posts!
Hello Susan, first let me say that I love your writing. I feel as though I am right there with you. Your house is absolutely beautiful and most importantly, cozy. I like your curtains and I think you were right to take the trim off. I am glad you are home and all is well.
You are a one of a kind gem.
😘 xoxo Kay!
I SO look forward to your Newsletters and everything that is in them. Glad you are back home and you still have Fall at your home. I also love Jack. I have a dog I rescued named Jack and when I try to get to close to take a photo when he is sleeping, he always has an eye that opens just like your Jack 🙂 Thanks for your giveaways too. Enjoy being home!
For each New Curtain set-
Take sheet paper, fold length wise
at top write the name of curtain set to be judged.
Right side/column label Pro, across from it Left side/column Con.
List at least 7 per Pro & Con…the more pro/con’s the better.
By the 3rd set of curtains you will see a pattern develop.
The more curtain sets you pro/con, better info to make your choices/revamping.
Use this information to revamp the curtain set you aren’t wild about.
I swear by the pro and con method of everything!
As always, really enjoyed your blog. Seeing all the kids you had for trick-or-treat makes me nostalgic for when my kids were little. We used to have lots of kids like you did but now we only get a dozen or so. Neighborhood is aged – not many young kids. Also, loved the curtains. Makes me want to put some new curtains on some of my windows. Looking forward to reading your new book.
Our neighborhood doesn’t seem to age, maybe it’s because the grammar school is just up the street! Thank you Marsha!
Susan,
So happy you are home again with your kitty. Your drapes are beautiful. Stay warm this winter.
Made my day to read this sweet post on returning home, celebrating Halloween, and nestling in for a long stay. I miss having trick-or-treaters in my new neighborhood — not a one. In my old one, the whole street was filled with costumed children and parents criss-crossing the road, houses lit with decorations. I do have a lovely view of woods out my north-facing sun porch, so autumnal bliss is still here … along with soups, and chili, and stews, and roasts and good-smelling dishes of all sorts. I think this past weekend was our peak of color. So glad you and Joe got to see your own dear home in its autumn colors.
I also lived with years of no kids at the door. The trick is to go to someone else’s house and steal their kids! xoxo
Dear Susan.
You live an enchanted life! I’m going to try to emulate you in some ways in order to enjoy my life more.
It must have been so thrilling to find your grandmother’s DAR information. I have been a DAR member for several years and am always so proud of the part my patriot’s have played in American history, past and present.
Glad you are back to your home for the holidays!
Dear Sue,
Welcome home to you both. You’re just in time to enjoy this beautiful golden season. Love your dining room.
XOX Lillian O.O
I love researching and doing genealogy. My family did our DNA too! Awesome and interesting info. So amazing to think that if any of my ancestors changed one simple thing, I might not be here! Happy November! And, yes, I voted!
I know, when you start looking at things, we are b a r e l y here!
Dear Susan,
Another enjoyable blog…….as always. Love your new curtains and the changes that you made………they’re lovely. Your home is so warm and cozy. Can’t wait for your new book to be finished. Would love to win a copy of the first chapter.
Hello, Susan, just a quick WELCOME HOME AGAIN as I hear the old pot on the stove rattling up a storm and I need to go finish making supper. (these are my Grandma’s old kitchenware and the lids have little circular vents that rattle when steam comes through). I am so glad that you still had leaves on your own trees when you returned to your island! The very best part of Autumn is a hot mug of tea, a windy afternoon and plenty of well-dressed trees sending leaves awhirling past the windows!
I have a pot that rattles too . . . such a good little kitchen noise! xoxo
I have not been able to read your delicious blog for too long. Then I get to see autumnal glory, trick-or-treaters to die for, starry pumpkins, and JACK! Wonderful. Thank you.
You truly do strive to live your best life! Good for you – we call all look for the very best in every little thing.
Thank you for your blog. I look forward to your posts.
Love your curtains, love Joe’s VOTE pumpkin, love the Autumn leaves, love seeing Jack, and can’t wait for your new book to come out! Just want you to know that I will be using your recipes for Cranberry Sauce (the one with only cranberries and sugar) and Cream Cheese Potatoes at Thanksgiving … so delicious!! They have become part of our Thanksgiving tradition just like my grandma’s stuffing and mom’s gravy. Thank you Susan!
YUM!
I get a thrill when I see an email in my inbox from you, and I always run around and ensure every little thing is all sorted so that I can grab a cuppa and sit as long as I like to savor the entire thing slowly, listening to whatever Musica is suggested. What a treat!
Makes my day to hear that Val!
Your cheerful words and pictures never fail to delight! Thank you!
I knew that was your Grandma right away. You look just like her.
And Hoagy! His voice was simple and sweet like 1927 probably was. Thanks for the lovely blog.
What a wonderful “welcome home” post! Glad there
we’re still 🍁 leaves on the trees on the island when you returned home.
I’m curious about your mom’s graduation. It says Sioux City!
Is that the one in Iowa? My daughter lives about an hour
from there in Orange City, Iowa. We’ve been to Sioux City
a number of times. It’s a lovely place! Did you know there’s
an Obelisk overlooking the river in Sioux City in honor of the
one person who died on the Lewis and Clark expedition?
I believe he died of a ruptured appendix.
My 9 year old grandson loves history, too, and is so enamored
by the story of Lewis and Clark, I am making him a quilt with
different blocks representing different aspects of their journey.
Thanks again for sharing your lovely Halloween celebration
and the “VOTE” pumpkin!
Happy Autumn 🍂
Oh yes, Sioux City, Iowa! What a wonderful thing for you to do Elly! Only 9 and loving Lewis and Clark! What a good grandma you are!
Aww…thanks Susan! I love to sew, so it’s a pleasure for me.
Someday, when I find the right pattern, I hope to make myself a quilt with the Susan Branch fabric I have in my stash.
Hurrah for fall, the weather is getting chillier even for SoCal, but I have my pumpkins, fall leaves and scarecrows arranged. Tomorrow I will fill the dehydrator with apple slices and fill the whole house with drying apples. Thank you Susan for keeping the call of a homebody alive and well; there are many of us!
Kindred spirits!
Spectacular post! I loved the four generation picture, Jack shielding his eyes from the light, the precious old documents, the trick or treaters, the picture
of your grandmother looking like you, and all the other images that made this post particularly interesting to read.
I really enjoyed your post, Susan. I especially liked the picture of your journal, filled with notes, memories, and the like. I have one that looks like it stored in a drawer in my dining room hutch. I pull it out every so often and write a poem, jot down a nice memory, or record the happy (or sad) moments of daily life. I like to reread it every now and then and think about, well….my life, with my friends and family. It is pure joy to do so. Your photo reminded me that it’s about time I took another peek. I’m glad you and Joe are home to stay for a while. Hope you enjoy your time together. Love, Barb 💕💕
So right, doesn’t have to be kept every day, but even the smallest notations will bring back memories you otherwise would forget. I’m sure your book is a joy!
Hello
Love that pumpkin!!! Very clever!🎃🍁👍
Love, LOVE, L-O-V-E this latest post! Thank you for sharing your adventures with us.😊❤️
Welcome home, Susan. Glad Fall waited for you. I don’t see Fall out my windows, but I do see winter. Yes, SNOW! Love Joe’s Jack ‘O Lanterns and as always your post. Warmed my heart on this very nippy day 🙂
Thank you!
Welcome home! Love the curtains! ♡♡
I unfortunately waited too long and was unable to get a ticket for your visit to the library. But- I am keeping my fingers crossed that there will be another appearance somewhere in the Northeast- maybe in the Spring. And I will act faster!!! Until then, have a wonderful and cozy Winter surrounded by those you love in both that lovely dining room and cozy living room. I wish I could hear you read the first chapter from your new book, but I’ll have to wait (with ants in my pants!!!) until the book is published. I’ll just keep repeating patience, Patience, PATIENCE… As always love to you and Joe, and Jack too. Keep spreading the sunshine, as you REALLY do make a difference
Thank you dear. xoxo
I’d love to be one of those 5….and how lucky at the ones who got tickets for the library talk and booklets! Always enjoy your posts.
If you’re near Falmouth, do check in with the library, I heard they had an extra ticket yesterday and one of our Girlfriends got it, but right close to the time, there are always cancellations.Thank you Deb!
Happy fall!
Hello Susan,
Glad you are home experiencing autumn in all its glory!
There is nothing like being back home. So glad you can nest and enjoy it. Looking forward to your new book being released. Hope you’re enjoying the creation as much as we will enjoy reading it. Thank you for your wonderful blog posts. They always brighten my day!
CAN HARDLY WAIT TO BE ‘ENCHANTED’
Hi Susan and Joe and Jack, I love your curtains, Jack’s evil eye and Joe’s Vote pumpkin. How wonderful to find all the family treasures. Welcome home.
Hi Susan,
Love your house, looks so warm and inviting. I know exactly how you feel, it is fun to travel but there is no place like home and your own bed.
Hi Susan,
Every time I read one of your post, I just dream of what a wonderful area you live in. It is also, my dream is to visit your area in the fall. I live in Southern CA and really miss those colors. Can you suggest a great area to stay. Either a hotel or even a rental. This has been one of my favorite post. It has absolutely put me in the holiday spirit.
Thanks for giving all the sisters a fun time reading.
Fran…xoxo
The island is only 100 square miles, very small, all places are great places. New England is very small too, you can be in several states in one day. But of course you want to take it slow and easy and stay off the highways to the best you can, so you can see the charming small towns. You can choose somewhere historical to stay, like Salem, MA … and take day trips out. Depends on what you’d like to see, because western MA has luv-lee towns, Vermont, upstate New York, New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island, every bit of it is interesting and beautiful. Connecticut too . . . Mark Twain’s house is there. Have fun planning! Go to chamber of commerces for ideas where to stay and go.
Glad you made it home to the Fall! Thanks for the give away.
So nice hearing about your grandmothers. I made floral curtains similar to yours in 1990. I loved them. Had to leave them when we sold that house. I think I like yours without the valances. Just my humble opinion.
Thanks for sharing your cute life with us all.
So far, I agree . . . but the good thing is, now I get to make changes, seasonal, or whatever . . . always something good about everything!
I would love to have the chance to read the first chapter of your upcoming book! How can you leave the precious Jack? He’s so cute and obviously loves you! Great photos of your Halloween celebration!
I just love how you express the beauty of the simple things in life…
Susan, HELLO! Not only do I love your books, your art, your handwriting, but I love your philosophy of life. All WILL be well!
Such an inspiring post – I enjoyed it with my morning coffee. You remind me to treasure the good and beautiful everyday things that surround us all. Such an inspiration.
I really like your drapes. Gives me inspiration for my next home. Thanks for the giveaway. I do hope I win!
I really like your drapes. It gives me inspiration for my next home. Thanks for the giveaway. I do hope I win!
Oh Susan. So glad you’re home. I’ve waited to read this post until today… my morning off! A chance to sit and savor it with a fresh cup of coffee. Your blog posts are like a mini version of your lovey books. Home….. to me there is not a better word. Have you heard the wonderful song “Home” from the musical The Wiz ? It’s sung by the beautiful Diana Ross. youtube.com/watch?v=dslpHxTuA-w
Hugs
Laura
So wonderful Laura, thank you!
Hi Susan,
I love reading your posts. The stories, the music, the photos, sweet little Jack. It just makes my day. I make a star pumpkin to at Halloween because of you. Thank you for always sharing your kindness and loving spirit…we are in this together!
Big hug,
Alex
Yes we are! xoxo
Hi,
This is my 4th try… Don’t know why post won’t go through.
Loved the blog… Glad you had a good trip and you and Joe are home safe.
Recently had shoulder replacement surgery so I am mostly reading… Would love to read your new ideas of Enchanted. For right now painting , yarn work , and gardening are on hold.
Have a great Autumn and Thanksgiving.
Is the pumpkin trifle recipe in a cookbook you have written?
Please enter me in the book contest.
Kathie from Limerick