I promised you “a surprise” in my last post (about a hundred years ago, oh my goodness, I’m so late)! MUSICA (nice old Frank)🎶 I don’t usually start things off with a photo of me, but I had to make an exception to add oomph to my explanation for why I’ve been away so long! In the photo, I’m dressed and on my way to give a talk at Island Writes, but you may notice something not quite right.
Yeah, why is she wearing that black glove? What an odd-looking glove. Hey, that’s not a glove! No. It. Is. Not. It is a (stupid) cast for a broken wrist. A broken right wrist. The hand that does everything. So anyway, I broke it a little over a month ago while packing up things for the yard sale. Tripped over bags, hand-to-floor, caught myself, the end. Which also ended the infamous yard sale for this year. Ended almost everything, because I had no idea what all this hand 
did until I lost it. Besides typing, writing, and painting, it opens cat food cans, washes hair, signs books, holds a freaking fork, puts on earrings, uses scissors, deadheads roses, DRIVES, and chops onions. Hello. At first I couldn’t do any of it, I gave my brain a new kind of workout by practicing writing with my left hand, but one-by-one I’ve been getting things back. And Look Ma, I’m typing! I think I MIGHT get the brace off Sept. 14, my Doctor keeps little secrets to himself, I’ve learned, but I am hoping! It wasn’t a bad break, no surgery; I glowed like a 7 year old when he called me a “good patient.” It’s the little things in life. Yes, physical therapy will follow, but I’ve been doing exercises to keep my arms strong, so I hope normalcy returns soon. Thank goodness for Joe! He’s been taking such good care of me!
But I promised you surprises, and you’re going to get surprises! 🌸 Our Courage Charm has arrived . . . isn’t it wonderful? Gold with a streak of pink that goes all the way around. Pink, the color of nurturing, for yourself, and for others. The color of love.💝
It comes on its own little card . . . the charm is engraved with the words “Courage, Dear Heart . . .”💞
Thought you’d like to see my bracelet . . . I think I have them all so far!
And this? This is not for sale! This surprise of all four-seasons of my cups (which are all sold-out and no longer available anywhere on earth), is for the lucky person whose name gets drawn by Vanna in the next post! I told you I would have surprises! Just leave a comment, and you’ll be entered! It can be for you, or maybe you’ll want to take it apart and make four Christmas 🎄 presents out of it! Leave a comment!’Tis almost the season! Here comes
And this? This is for everyone! A brand new bookmark for all my Anglophile, Corgie-adoring, Queen-admiring girlfriends and the people they love! Just click HERE, print it on card-stock, have it laminated if you like . . . it makes a very sweet stocking stuffer or book-gift accountrement.(In case you’re new here, the bookmark is tucked into a copy of my book A Fine Romance, Falling in Love with the English Countryside.)
And what else? Oh yes, for everyone that preordered and waited so patiently, I’m thrilled to tell you the new cups are scheduled to arrive in California TOMORROW, on Thursday! And yes, I ordered extra so we would have some to last through Christmas, just in cases.
The heart cup is another Courage item. The world is so wild these days, we need as much of this as we can get. And there’s another secret about this cup . . .💞
I didn’t design it! I designed a red cup with hearts on it which Joe thought was a little boring, and said, “Why don’t 
you make it look like champagne?” I said, naturally, “What are you talking about?” He tried to tell me, but I couldn’t picture it, was running out to lunch with girlfriends, and said, willy-nilly, over my shoulder, “Draw me a picture!” Because I know Joe is an artist even though he never does it. But I didn’t expect THIS. Champagne bubbles made into hearts. Of course I fell in love with it. My boy is a genius!
Very appropriately, this is Joe’s first cup ~ Champagne Hearts! He will very likely never do another one, not sure I can figure out how I tricked him into this one!🙃
I designed the bottom and the handle, so it was a group effort. From the Heart of our Home.💖 You’ll have them by the end of next week!👏
This one too! The Martha’s Vineyard cup, arriving at the Studio tomorrow, and in case you’re coming to the Island, it’s already available in the shop that carries my things here ~ which, by the way, has changed their name to Vineyard Arts Gallery, it’s still in the same place in downtown Vineyard Haven, and Robin still runs it. And one more by-the-way . . . another reason for you to leave a comment ➡️ Yes! I’ll be sending some lucky person their very own Martha’s Vineyard cup too! It’s an Autumn extravaganza!
This too! Leave a comment to win this Pumpkinhead cup! So far that makes three lucky winners and you only need to leave one comment to be entered for everything! Why you may ask? Because I can! (Writing now, from day after I published this post: Reading the lovely comments ~ can’t answer so many with bad hand, but reading 🤗, loving, sometimes tears, THANK YOU.💞 This is why. We are the world!) I detect a need for cheer and doing my best in this little world of ours, to make some of it for my Girlfriends! And, to make it more fun, the winner of this Pumpkinhead cup will also get a box of my Inspiration Notecards.
Hope you love them!
Jack also wanted me to let you know, in his own unique way (by draping himself on the thing I’m trying to photograph), that the 2020 calendars have arrived! If you preordered, you should have them!
Other good news, our teapot plates are back in stock! We’ve gotten lots of requests ~ sooo happy they’re finally here!
Great for holiday cookies, as a little serving dish and. . .
also looks great hanging on a wall!
And brand NEW, two night lights!
Blue dots on a scalloped porcelain shade!
And little flowers too!
You can read about them HERE.
I have soooo much more to tell you, but this is my first day back at typing and I’ve just been made a wee bit painfully aware, it’s time to stop! I’m only half done! Wah! Guess I will join Jack doing what we do best!
Still eating yummy whole food!
Have devolved to one-finger typing, left-hand ~ but one last thing, I’m reading this helpful book I think you might like.
Interesting book that reminds us of our lovely humanity . . .
We need to remember in our crazy world . . . also, from me to you💞, want to remind:
Don’t forget to leave a comment (one word is fine!) to be entered for Surprise GiveAways! And sign up HERE to have this blog delivered to your email box!
Love your blog and your giveaways!!
I am crossing my fingers!
Susan, so sorry about your mishap. You brighten my days with your sweet musings. Thank you.
Love the heart mug.
B/(
Forgot to say I am sorry you broke your wrist! Hope it mends totally soon!
Thank for spreading cheer. 🙂
My favorite mail I ever get, and a giveaway. Pick me! Pick me! (Opps I wrote what I was thinking) Thank you my east coast friend💕💕💕
Such pretty cups to drink tea with friends!
I would love to have some of your delightful cups.
Always love your posts, Susan! Your cups are so very creative, and I’d love to be one of your lucky recipients! Since fall is my favorite season, I think the Autumn cup is very special!
Be well and joyful!
Hi Susan,
So happy your wrist is doing better and you are feeling up to typing. We all look forward to the blogs so much, and you even brought us surprises!!! Take care not to push too hard with your wrist. We all want that painting, writing, cooking, washing, do everything wrist to be healed completely, and for you to be able get back to doing all the things you love and even the washing. 🤪
With much love,
Beverlee
Oh, Susan. I was just wondering if you were okay the other day. Now I know. It must be hard. I’d go bonkers if I couldn’t paint and draw. I’ll bet Jack loves having you in one spot for extra snuggles! I took a dive a few weeks ago on the way out to my truck. Fortunately, most of me landed in the grass, but my left knee smacked the cement! At least I don’t need it for drawing or sewing…there’s a silver lining in almost anything. I hope you are back to doing what you love soon. You’re looking wonderful!
I so enjoy your posts! Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us all.
Healing vibes for your wrist. Ouch! What a wonderful surprise!!
So lovely to have you back, you were missed. Take time to heal. Love the mugs, and will be getting my new calendar soon. Take care
So sorry to hear about your poor wrist, Susan! May you get better soon and be able to everything you love to do!
I love that your creativity turns into gifts!
Love your blog but anxiously awaiting your new book
Dear Susan, I’m so sorry about your wrist and will pray for it to be healed, restored, and made whole again soon but want to thank you for taking time to write us and to share everything going on in your life. I love seeing the new cups, and your notecards, and the nightlights, etc., etc., but most of all love your posts.
The sense of peace and joy that come over me as I read it. The little asides that you put in from authors of long ago could almost be written today. I thank God for you sharing your talent with us! Have you ever thought about doing a “back to school” mug for moms and grandmas, who are heaving a sigh of relief or shedding a tear over the first day of school? Enjoy your day.
Dear Susan,
As you have magically done in the past you appear on a day when I really need you. So sorry about your wrist. Take care of yourself. Hope it’s all better soon.
Lovely post. We missed you in the blog world. Wishing you and your wrist a speedy recovery!
Susan,
Wishing you a complete and speedy recovery. Thanks for all of your wonderful surprises. Love the night lights! Take good care.
Lovely cups.
In so many ways, Susan, you continue to inspire us, your Sisters, to focus on the beauty in life, preciousness of the moment, and the value of friendship and LOVE!
We are all blessed…… thank you! <3
Your emails are always a welcome surprise in my email box! Your words and the quotes you add are uplifting and full of smiles!
I hope your wrist heals perfectly.
Best wishes for your recovery.
Teapot plates, a beautiful cup and tea, and a treat….can it be any better?!! Susan, you are so right, we need to find the calm, the sense, and the goodness during such times of craziness and distress in order to best find our path to cope and effect positive changes. You help us to achieve that for ourselves. Please take care of yourself and follow the therapist advice…..I know this as I am one!!!
I have been worried about you. I was so happy to open up my e-mail and see that familiar post. Sorry about your accident. I got my 62 year old knee replaced in June and the pain is gone. Also I got a 2 year old rescue cat. God bless us all. The world needs sooooo much help! Take care. Melissa Williamson
Love Jack and all the cups!
Birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, Anniversary, time after time I’ve been asking friends and family for one of your cups (the Spring one with the adorable sheep on it – like characters out of Beatrix Potter is my favourite) but I’m still cupless! And now they’re gone! Wahhh! Well, here’s hoping! 😉 Thank you for always brightening our days with your blog posts and your presence. Xo
I just love your art and your cups. I’d love to have a set! Thank you!!
Beautiful post. Sending healing wishes…
Thank you!
I cant see any of the comments,I had posted,so I figured I would post again,Hope you heal quickly with your injury,feel better,….Karen Seward, Oceanside, New York
A need for cheer…true words indeed! Than you Susan for your love and generosity. You lift us up!!💕
I’m so glad to hear from you. It has been a while. I hope you are all better soon.
Susan, your stories and charming pictures always make my day🤗‼️ So sorry about your wrist. Wishing you a very speedy recovery …
Dear Susan! I’m so sorry you have an out of commissioned right hand! Hope you are pain free and healing well! Yes,sadly my right foot is fractured and it is so difficult keeping it “non weight bearing”. Never had a fracture before anywhere !! Here’s hoping and praying you and I will be on the mend soon!!
So much to think about in your post, Susan. I can certainly relate to your broken wrist predicament and it’s challenges. It happened to me about 10 years ago, also my right wrist. Once healed I was (and still am) so grateful and cognizant of what a marvelous part of the body It is. I know you will feel the same way once you can do all the simple things in life again.
As for being swept up with technology, that’s a real balancing act. I still read newspapers, some online, and keep up with a few forms of social media, but don’t overdo it. Being a senior, I want to keep up with technology to be current and learn new things but don’t feel I overdo it.
Wishing you comfort and healing, dear Susan!
Spending time in nature helps block the world out and destress…love my Hans teapot plate. 🙂
Sending thoughts for a speedy recovery from your broken wrist! Love seeing sweet pictures of Jack. Your new cups are adorable !
Your blog posts are so comforting…even when you disclose a serious injury. Sorry that you’re going through this, but am happy you’re on the mend. Thank you for the giveaway chances. I think I see a few Christmas gifts that can’t wait for the giveaway results. (wink)
As soon as a new blog post comes out my Mom sends me a message! We’re addicted! Thank you for providing a little corner of the internet that is full of joy, hope, and cozy home good feelings!
Hi Susan, sending you best wishes for a full recovery! I certainly can relate to your injury. I fell on Memorial Day and broke bones in both feet and am still healing with PT to follow soon! Healing bones takes a lot of patience, doesn’t it?
This injury definitely put things into perspective for me, we take so much for granted! We don’t realize what we can’t do until we lose the ability to do so. Take care, sending you lots of hugs and smiles. And I can’t wait to receive my ‘Champagne Hearts’ mug!! 🙂
I’m so sorry to hear about your broken wrist! I have been in a similar situation and it really made me realize how I took my mobility for granted and how grateful I was when all my limbs were back in working order. Hang in there, our bodies are amazing when it comes to the healing process! I would be absolutely delighted to win any of the cups you are giving away. Here’s hoping!! 🤞😀
Happy
Hi Susan!
I just love these blogs!!! I lived in Massachusetts for many years and dearly miss going to the Cape and Islands so your blogs give me memories. I have lived in Central Oregon for 13 years and am high in the Cascade Mountains (3000 ft above sea level) but it takes 5 hours to get to the Oregon Coast. The Pacific Ocean is not anything like the Atlantic. I hope someday to get back to the Cape…sorry if I bored you…
Have a fun September!
Linda
[email protected]
Ohhh…my…goodness!!!
Love 💕
I just love the cups you design. Have begun giving them to friends/family picking one to suit each one as their birthday arrives or just because. You bring me joy by your postings and make me dream a bit more. A friend lent me your books a few years ago and enjoyed them all. Have since given the collection to my sister and one to a dear friend recovering from a serious illness. Blessings to you!
So many cute cups! Yes, great for holiday gifts, but might keep it for myself!
Hi dear Susan. Thank you for the reminder to “notice the quiet” and hope your recovery continues to go well. Blessings—Karen
Love the champagne bubble cup! Guess I will need to visit Apple Farm!! Hope your arm heals quickly! What an inconvenience for a busy lady!
What a dream come true to win your charming mugs! Yes, I will share them if I win! Susan, praying your wrist heals quickly! 💖
Another great read ! So much to take in, I’ll have to read it 3 more times! Love the champagne hearts, the courage charm, the bookmark! Love your photo with your wonderful outfit! Sorry you have a break! I broke my right arm some moons ago and broke my hip this spring! Don’t follow me! 🤞. Happy you’re getting back to typing and painting! Happy healing!
Love the cups !And the bubble story .
Hi Susan,
Great to hear from you! Have missed your blog. So glad you are on the mend and know you will continue gaining strength each and every day. Love Joe’s champagne bubble heart mug design – very fun! Thank you for always being so inspiring. Take good care. xoxo
Wishing you a speedy recovery! The new mugs are wonderful. 💗
Lovely blog which makes me smile
Susan, I hope you heal quickly. I had a similar injury. PT took quite a while. Good luck. You can do it!
Thanks for pecking out this post for us!
Pleeeease let me win !!!!!! Love all things Susan Branch !
It’s so good to have you back. Hope you get that wrist back in real action. All those goodies, I’m excited. Love those new night lights, sooo cute. Thank you, Joe for getting involved in the cup artwork. Such talent in that house.
Take care, Susan.
I’m so so sorry to hear of your accident…it always takes something like that to make us aware of how much we do every day. And I will always keep trying to win something. That heart mug is the best ever…you may have yourself a designing partner!
Sharon in very hot Houston
Hi Susan! Sorry to hear about your hand, that’s no fun at all! Thanks for the updates and chance to win something from your “Mug-a-thon”, they are all GREAT! Hope your cast is off soon, Fall is coming on fast!
especially liked the “Therapy Session 2049”
Poor Susan. When I saw that cast I almost cried “NO!” because it was your right hand.
Sending healing prayers your way. I also wanted to mention that I received my 2020 calendar; it is absolutely lovely.
You had me as a faithful admirer from the moment I purchased my first calendar three years ago. I have been following your blog and purchasing your calendars ever since. Your writings give me sweet reflection of how life is so awesome and precious and to enjoy the beauty all around us everyday. Thanks for your contribution to the world. There needs to be more Susan Branches!
I love surprises!
So sorry about you hand, may you heal quickly.
Susan, I am so sorry to see that you have broken your wrist! I will keep you in my prayers for a speedy recovery!
I, like you, am crazy for the Autumn season and love all things pumpkins, colors, the scents of Fall etc….! Since I live in the desert, I really miss all the changing of the leaves. It is the price to pay for not living in the cold and snow! LOL!
Thank you for the opportunity to be placed in your lovely drawing! I appreciate it! Be well!
I love your outfit, Susan. You have great style with the feminine petticoat (I know that is an old fashioned word) peaking out from under your lovely skirt. I remember back in the late 70’s or early 80’s, I decided to purchase a stiff, crinoline type petticoat to wear under a strapless, floral sundress. I loved that outfit, and my husband loves the photo. Now, I must settle for something a little, more demure and refined for my sixty plus body. I do love vintage looking clothes and purses. There is nothing like a kiss lock, structured handbag like ladies carried in the 1950’s. The bonus being a handbag fits every size. And, there is nothing like your fabulous, styled mugs, tea plates, and night lights.
Love to receive your letters. Cozy, comfy, joy filled. Thank you.💝
Susan, I feel for you as I broke my right hand last Thanksgiving!!! So much to do with only one hand for the holidays….at least I could raise a glass of wine with my left hand! Sending good karma your way for a speedy recovery. Remember, you give so much to others…take time for yourself & so happy Joe is spoiling you! Love the new items:-)
Hoping you mend quickly and physical therapy is successful.
As always, you are an inspiration!
Pray your wrist gets better soon!
Hope you get well soon! Thank you for doing all you do to bring happiness in everyone’s life. Love to see Joe’s flair for designing! And last but not least love seeing sweet Jack😻😻
Yippee for raffles!!❤️
Hello Susan! This is my first message to you. I started reading your books and enjoying your work in the late 1990’s, and still do. I hope your wrist recovers nicely! Best wishes to you and yours.
Donna
I just adore everything you do!
Susan, I have to say, I was getting worried when I wasn’t seeing a new blog by you. I’m so sorry about your wrist, but I hope it heals well and you get through your rehab quickly! No matter what you write, I am always looking forward to your next blog post! Your writing is so down to earth and comforting some how. (Even though this one was giving us news we weren’t expecting and glad you weren’t injured more severely!) I have a history of falling many times in my whole life to which my husband says he’s surprised I have never broken a bone!
So I can very much relate to your accident. Thank you for getting this blog to us to let us know what happened and take good care of yourself !
cant wait to get my hearts cup.. I have been waiting for one I could not live without.
I love the cups. Not at all surprised that they’ve sold out
That poor broken wrist will heal before you know it, darling girl! (Been there, done that ~ yes, my right one as well!) Keep that effervescent spirit bubbling, just like those inspired “Champagne Hearts” 🥂🍾💕🎶🕊❣️
How absolutely lovely! I have surely missed you! So thankful you are doing better… When I hear from you, I need to take time to ponder and drink the words you type. Thank you lots!
Oh my….so sorry about your wrist! You really do not realize how much a portion of your body does until it’s not available to use. I hope your recovery is quicker then quick!
All the best!💐
P.S. the set of seasonal mugs would look great wrapped in my hands with a bit of tea to enjoy!
Hi Susan,
I am glad your hand is on the mend, and you were able to write us all. I always enjoy reading your sweet way of reaching out with all your fun experiences. Well maybe not your hand😳. I am sure being a “good patient” will speed up your recovery.💗
It is perfect that Joe helped you design the LOVE cup! Sending lots of healing thoughts. xxx
My heart always smiles when I see a new “love” blog in my inbox. And I agree, we all need lots of “love” courage these days. Your blogs do that for me. Sweet dreams, Susan. P.s. Isn’t Joe a blessing? Cresanna from Sacramento
1. You’re so sweet to have giveaways to brighten the world!
2. I love your Jack. I have 2 felines named Frankie & Johnny. Don’t blame me; my husband named them both!
3. Your night lights are very cute.
4. Did
I say
I really like your photos of Jack? 😄
Susan
Sorry to hear about your wrist. Prayers for quick healing coming your way. Was wondering what happened to you. Started to worry.
I love the little nightlight! Also, am re reading your book “A Fine Romance ” in anticipation of sailing to England on the QE2 next Spring!
Your items are so lovely!
Lovely post. Sorry to hear about your broken wrist. Take good care of yourself. So thankful for lovely people like you Susan.
I can truly empathize with you, Susan. Many years ago I fractured my right humerus and ended up with a cast that covered my arm and was connected to more cast around my middle. I tried to learn to write with my left hand, and continue with things that were then very difficult to do – like get dressed and in what kind of clothing. Thank goodness for ponchos. I love the cups, and would be delighted to own even one of them. Here’s to healing quickly and lovely days leading toward autumn!
Oh! The complete JOY of having tea in your gorgeous mugs! Balm for my soul 🥰
Considerable setback to have your right hand out of commission. Great news that you did not need surgery. Yard Sales can be hazardous to your health, in more ways than one!! Thanks for sharing, and blessings on your continued recovery!
Hi Susan,
I pray that your wrist continues to heal well and that you will soon be back to your busy-as-a-bee creative life! Sending a warm hug from one of your biggest, but shortest fans in Shoreview, Minisnowdah!
Well, you’ve kept me up past my bedtime, but I can’t resist mail from Susan. Sorry to hear about your boo-boo. If I wasn’t way across the country in SoCal I’d pop over & help you out with your writing or chores or whatever.
While I’m lucky enough to own all four seasons, I’d be Sister of the Year if I won another set & gifted them to my sister.
But if Pumpkinhead came my way, she would never be able to pry it away from me!
Get well soon!
Isn’t it time for your annual train trip to CA?
You and your work are a delight always! Everything best, Thank you
I wondered why we haven’t heard from you for awhile. Sorry about your wrist! Praying it heals quickly. I love your Willard’s & this newsletter – keep them coming. And take care of yourself, Joe & Jack.
Thank you for your generous give-away offer. I’ve been rereading your Martha’s Vineyard & it’s so lovely. It’s a feel good book & in that sense it reminds me of James Herriot’s books. And now, I really would love to go there as I love islands and the sea. 🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊 🚣♀️
And boats, and cottages…