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 the pumpkin mugs!
Oh Susan! That wrist looks painful, girl! Please take good care of yourself. You are so needed in the world right now. I look forward to your posts like a warm hug. Get well soon, and no more falling down. : 0 )
Beautiful things!! I hope I win – fingers crossed!
Long time, no hear….you’ve been officially excused from class…and all your classmates are required to assist you in every way possible to insure complete success in the healing process,
and now Anne with an “e” (from Anne of Green Gables)… we are grateful that your mishap did not injure you tongue…figuratively speaking of course. Heal well, heal quickly.
I appreciate your posts!! They add a touch of relaxation to my life as I read them.
“Heal”!!
Very glad to have you back, Susan, and sorry you were gone so long for such an upsetting-of-life’s-routines reason. Talk about making life difficult! I hope all is healed and pain-free and functioning again soonest. Love the picture of Jack cat-napping.😀
Oh, your poor wrist – so sorry, but glad you’re almost mended! Another delightful blog post and, wow, the giveaways are spectacular😃! I’ve been trying to hold off on my fall decorating till after Labor Day (almost made it), but our weather in central IA most of August has made it really challenging – 70s with sunshine and cool, dry air🥰. Really weird but fabulous! Wishing you and Joe a glorious fall season and complete use of your right hand again soon!
Hi, Sue! It’s so good to read a blog from you! Almost as good as meeting you on the sidewalk and spending hours with conversation! You have so many special things in this one, too! Yay for Joe! He’s a great designer, and he’s great at taking care of you! Continuing to send you good wishes for total recovery! Love and hugs from East Tennessee!
Susan, my friend – I feel like I’ve known you forever. Loveee all things Susan Branch and am slowly aquiring your pieces. Would love to add another mug to my collection and hoping my name is one of the lucky ones picked! been checking the site weekly for the next blog entry..so sorry to hear about your broken wrist…get well soon, and thank you for the bookmark!
Hi Susan
Love Joe’s cup! ❤️ ❤️ all the cups are
beautiful
Oh, boy, do we ever need some cheer these days….
I can somewhat relate to your falling and breaking your wrist. I was out walking my dogs earlier this month and tripped. I landed on my face and cracked my nose. Along with a big, bloody lip and 2 black eyes. Hope you recover soon and take care.
Susan, I’m sincerely sorry you had to endure the pain and inconvenience of a broken wrist. I hear you about how much we depend on our hands to do everything (thank goodness for Joe❤) . So relieved to hear no surgery was required; it should heal beautifully. Thank you for sharing many wonderful surprises here and, always, for making this a kinder, happier world.
Oh, you are always so inspriring… I love all your products. Have a ton of your cups, but not all…so…. hope I win!
What amazing cups! I would love ANY of them! Beautiful artwork and love the style and size. What a generous offer! Hope the hand heals nicely!
Heal quickly and completely. Your artwork is a joy.
Champagne hearts!
Happy your wrist is healing. I love all the mugs and would be thrilled to win one in tbe drawing.
Susan,
I’m so sorry about your wrist but glad to hear you’re healing and using your hand again–and typing! I can’t do a whole lot with my left hand except wave. Haha! The little porcelain shades are adorable. I love all of your cups, trinket dishes and wall plaques. We are enjoying a late summer. I expect September to be very warm this year. Maybe even into October. Makes for lovely evening on the patio 🙂 Fingers crossed that the brace comes off soon!
~Cheers~
Samantha (aka, Mt. Borah Lady)
OMGosh! Thought you might have given in to carpal tunnel surgery. Maybe this will heal faster than that would. The world needs your artistic hand!
Love you Susan! Love your blog, your art, your books, your dishes,your lovely spirit – everything!! Sending loving healing thoughts to your wrist.
Very sorry to hear about your accident – could happen in a second to m/any of us! BUT glad to find your posting today – I was imagining all kinds of things that could’ve happened to you. Glad to hear from you!
Hope and pray you heal fast! Thanks for all your fun posts❤️
Hi Susan,
Another fun post. Sorry about your wrist but glad you are on the mend!
Susan, I am so sorry about your wrist injury! Looking forward to mid September when this mishap becomes just an unsettling dream from the deep dark past!
And please, please, PLEEEASE enter me in the raffles for CUPS! All 3 of them! I’m hyperventilating and all 6 of my cats look concerned!
All of your cups are wonderful, and I will be making the corgi bookmark for our daughter-in-law, a corgi fan.
Love your blog! I always enjoy seeing Jack in them.
I love your blogs…always coming out on the very day I need a dose of your happy charm!
So sorry to hear about your break! Glad to hear that you are healing and sounding so upbeat! You are so clever and talented to keep coming up with new designs. Love those nightlights too! Don’t overwork your wrist but get well soon!! Ellen D.
So sorry about your wrist. But…Jack!!’
Thanks for the newsletter. It always brightens my day!
Oh my you are too kind! And such a trooper with a broken wrist. Speedy healing my friend❤️
Already have me calendar. Love it!
Squee! Shriek! Gasp (a bit of an excited choke) it seems I’ve found your post just as its gone up, and what a treat. So good to hear from you, and so good to get a bit of ‘happy news’, although that wrist break is not happy at all! Im so sorry to hear your wrist was broken! I hope it mends well, and quickly! So much good cheer and Anglophile love makes direct contact from there 🙂 Please please PLEASE do enter me in any and all giveaway! I LOVE all those mugs, and that pumpkin head one! Perfect for the coming autumn season! Mend fast and get well!~! Hope all is well on the island!~
So sorry to hear about your wrist, hope recovery is speedy! So many prizes! Here’s hoping!
Susan I was thinking of you this morning, so getting this post made me very happy. So sorry about your injury, isn’t it wonderful though to realize “it could have been worse.” We all need to remember that when things are difficult.
Wishing you quick healing for your wrist!❤️
I’m so sorry about your wrist Susan. I’m in a bad way with my right hand so I completely understand. My guy is helpful like your Joe. Loved your description of the things we do with our right hand. Oh my….so true. Get better soon.
Great to hear from you!You were missed.
Dear Susan,
As always I look forward to your posts (and even more so now that your Willard Letter – a favorite- is a thing of the past.) May September 14th find you with a healed, good-as-new wrist.
I hope your cast comes off soon!
Susan, so sorry about your wrist!! You have my prayers that it heals completely and soon!
I love that Pumpkin cup! I am so ready for fall. I am so tired of the heat here in Sacramento. Hope your wrist get’s better soon. I just printed out this entry in your blog for my Mom. She loves reading all that you post. Have a great day!
Love,
Kathy
Thanks for the encouragement in this crazy world. We need it! Glad to see you’re on the mend!
Love your art work and love your cups, so Lovely!
Praying your arm recovers quickly!!
I’m so sorry about your wrist and hope you’re good as new soon! I face planted last year and chipped a tooth; I looked like a jack o’lantern! Xoxo
Oh Susan! I’m so sorry to hear of your accident…praying that your wrist is healed soon! We take for granted all the things our right hands can do until something like this happens. Nice to hear that you have been resting it all this time. We miss you, but take time to heal. I love your autumn surprise mugs! ❤️😘
Your blog is always a welcome delight. So sorry to hear about your accident but happy to read that you’re on the mend. Joe must be a real honey and very talented to boot ! ! ! And, Jack is too cute and sweet for words ! ! !
Susan: So sorry about your wrist. I broke my right wrist many, many years ago. I was in 4th or 5th grade. I had the best teacher, though. She had me sit near her for the entire time my wrist was in a cast and I was able to orally respond to any questions and assignments the class was given. Even my tests were done that way. Speaking up was never my strong point, but after 6-8 weeks of doing that, I was a pro. Just don’t do too much at first. Bones need to heal well.
I SO NEEDED this today. Been feeling a little down and overwhelmed with this life! I’ve gotten WILLARD since the day you started, and have so many of your books! YOU (and your writing, and art, and personality) are my HAPPY PLACE! THANK YOU!!
You were missed. Sorry about your wrist.
Oh Sue, you poor thing!!! Thank goodness for Joe! I have a friend who broke her wrist a few years ago and I remember it was the same thing – she tripped and fell and put her hand out to stop the fall. Sure enough it was broken. She was so mad at herself for doing it, but I told her that it’s just the normal reaction everyone has in that situation. I hope you get better soon! Hugs from me, Sharon in Florida.
Dear Susan,
I love your books and your blog. They make me happy. Thank you.
Melanie Cook
PS: In today’s picture – Joe smiles – wow!
Speedy healing thoughts to you! Your blogs bring LOVE to our own little worlds!
Thanks Susan, for the dose of good cheer. Even with a broken wrist you stay sunny!
I love the heart mug and the courage charm. In this crazy world, my motto has become-one day at a time, one day at a time.
YaY for being back and healing, My favorite season is upon us almost 🍂🎃 Thank you for always thinking of all the girlfriends 🌸💕
I have been your devout fan of almost 20+ years! Your cookbooks, card calendars, 2 of your 3 ring binders- “Home Cooking Traditions” (which I absolutely adore!) and anything else Susan Branch. My 33 year old daughter loves you too and absconded w the cookbooks when she moved to San Francisco! I don’t have any of your mugs, but would adore one! So sorry to hear of your mishap! The body is amazing at healing itself. Speedy recovery and thank you for making this world beautiful w your gifts of creativity! Cheers!
you are the best. rest that wrist. I broke my right hand some time ago. it healed so slowly. regards Gloria AKA Kathy
Susan
I saw you broke your wrist on Facebook and commented back then, but still, ouch! Thankfully you’re coming along ok. We’ve missed you. Although I see bits on FB and Twitter. Thank you for updating us on your wrist and appreciate what you must be going through (pain) in making this blog post for us. You are so kind and giving.
Speaking of giving… I LOVE this fun post of giveaways and new things. Truly, I check the shopping site everyday, except I didn’t today of course, to check on the tea plate being back in stock. (I saw the email that the blog was posted!)
I’m thrilled and of course need both of them! And love the little night lights, I need them too! Now I have to go shopping after I post this comment. And a heart cup as well. That is such a charming story you shared about how Joe designed the champagne hearts cup. Now I HAVE to have one. We need charming stories, people and things in our lives; I read the pages you posted of your book. That IS an interesting book you are reading. Says a lot about our society today. Sorry for all the ramblings…
I hope your wrist continues to heal well and that you are taking this time as one of the various seasons in our lives which we tend to go through from time to time-this one being a season of rest. (and enjoying summer)
So excited at the thought of the giveaway. Everything is so wonderful and so generous of you. Please give Jack a wee kiss for me and all the best to you and Joe.
Blessings and peace from California.
On a perfect August day in, of all places, Kansas, the cicadas are in chorus just outside my window. The sun is shining, a soft breeze is blowing, stirring every leaf of every tree, lawn and herbs are flourishing and green from the recent heavy rains. As I look out my window, after reading Susan’s latest blog, I find that instead of my usual envy of life on Martha’s Vineyard, I am completely satisfied with my Kansas life – on this delicious afternoon.
Susan so sorry for your broken wrist, hope you are back to normal very soon.
Keep bringing so much cheer to all of our lives. I am facing some health issues and will look forward to your blogs to take me away from problems. Thank you for all the info on your diet, it is so helpful. Love your mugs, your give aways are so generous. Love Sonja
Your blog is just what the world needs more than ever. Please, never stop reminding us how much the small gems of life keep us human.
Hi Susan, thank you so much for posting!! I have been checking your twitter account for the last month to see how you are doing. You are in my thoughts and prayers!!! I was selfishly thinking I didn’t know how I would enjoy September without reading a new blog from you and now I have it. Thank you!! Please enter me into the contest also. Thank you so much, Lisa
Wow, so much goodness in one post!
So very sorry about your wrist, but glad you are making progress. Keep on feeling better, and don’t overdo!
The cups in particular are lovely, and the Courage charm. I chose courage for my Word of 2019, and my daughter made me a sweet framed picture of that very C.S. Lewis quote!
So sorry about your wrist, Susan. Sounds like you are still busy and your creative mind going strong. Love your posts and books and other creative endeavors.
I’m glad you are coping with your wrist injury…you’re so lucky to have Joe😉…
Oh no…a broken wrist….😩. Heal quickly, girlfriend, as our lives would not be the same without your beautiful art and positive messages❣️
Sometimes it takes losing something to really appreciate! Thank goodness it is on temporary! Take good care ❤️
September is my birthday month. What a wonderful gift this would be.
So glad you’re on the mend, Susan! Love your spirit!
I feel like a little kid because I want to scream,”Pick me for your drawing!”
Love your art, recipes,, stories about Jack, and books! Most of all, love your zest for life and positive attitude.
How delightful to hear from you on my first week back to school! Hope your hand is well on the mend.
Hope you are feeling better really soon and able to do all the things you miss. Keep up your beautiful work!
Glad you’re on the mend, Susan!
Please enter my name in your giveaway~! how exciting it would be to win something… perhaps the cups and plates!!! I would love those! Sorry you broke your wrist.. you probably have a whole new appreciation for your left hand! and for that matter more of an appreciation for your right hand! you will be back to new before long! Thanks again for entering my name and have Jack pick my name!
Love your blog.
So terribly sorry about your unfortunate mishap! Hope you are well on your way to recovery so you can fully enjoy the holiday season!
Still hoping one day you will do a set of 5″ x 7″ calendar pages to insert in an acrylic easel. I need replacements each year and just haven’t found any that I really like that capture the seasons/months of the year. I know your creativity and artwork would be pefect for the project and make me happy each day as I glance at it. Please consider!
P.S. I recently purchased several of your cookbook binders and completed the reorganization project this summer of all my torn-out recipes and recipe cards. Love having them all together using your dividers and precious stickers to decorate with. My girlfriends are quite envious!
OMG! That wasn’t in your game plan! I’m so sorry to hear of your accident and hope it hasn’t been to painful. You do look very pretty in your outfit for your outing. I wish you much better days ahead and so glad you have charming Joe to care for you. Keep smiling and so enjoying your blog.
Hugs, Marie Fluck
What love and light you bring to our world. We need you and love you!
So good to see you posting again…brave you, even with your broken wrist ♥ Sounds like you are making progress, so that’s super good news!
What generous give-aways! Hope the end of Summer is treating you well otherwise. I always read the end of your Summer book about this time. Singing along with Chad and Jeremy even if no leaves are even thinking of turning yet. But we have had 2 nights when the temp actually dipped below 70 🙂 That’s excitement here on the southeast coast of North Carolina. Now if we can just skip another Hurricane Florence!
Take care of yourself & get well soooooon ♥ mari
ouch about your wrist….so glad to ‘see’ you back here!!!!!! Hugs!!!!!
Awsome
A pleasant surprise to see a new blog post today. Made my day!
What beautiful cups! Love them! So sorry that your wrist is broken but sounds as if it’s mending well and you’ll be back in top form before long. Thank heaven for wonderful husbands! Enjoy the remainder of this most gorgeous summer! And…..the photo of darling Jack is adorable. We’ll keep you in our thoughts and prayers Susan. 💕
Oh my, so many beautiful new goodies!!
Christmas in September!! Thank you, Susan 🤗
What a terrific giveaway for all of us girlfriends. Joe was inspirational, love that mug.
When I was a little girl, every Birthday I would wish on my candles for a pony and a broken arm! I was fascinated by a classmate’s old-fashion white style of cast that everyone got to sign, color, and decorate! My jealous heart thought that would be HEAVENLY! I never got either wish but now that I’m in my twilight years with weak bones, I’m cautiously trying to avoid both! haha! You do look adorable in yours though, Susan!😉
I had a bad sprain on my left wrist a few years ago—I could hardly put on my clothes—I’m left handed so it was quite debilitating—it took months to feel right—I didn’t go to the Doctor it might have been a hairline break ! I got back full mobility so all’s well ! Proud of you for doing this blog !
Dearest Susan, I pray you heal real quick. Go slow…we will all be here. We need your input..wisdom and love. Love the new cups…and the nightlights are adorable. I have to choose one? This year I will have 2 calendars. I couldn’t decide. Stay strong, we need you. xo
I love everything about your blog. Thank you for helping me see and feel the beautiful today… and so sorry about your broken wrist!
Oh Susan…your wrist! I broke mine – of all things – while bowling! Yes, I broke the rules and stepped over the line. I had to have surgery (this was in 2016) later, my wrist looked wrong and was in pain all the time. I had a corrective surgery in 2018 – I feel great now – still can’t move well but I am not in pain which was the goal. Glad you are on the mend…keep moving those fingers – one less thing you have to rehab for.
Oh, Susan! I can’t believe it about your wrist. Prayers and positivity for a speedy recovery! And… thank you for this warm and fuzzy post. =]
Oh my oh my! I am so sorry to hear of your injury. I am so glad you are feeling better and on the mend. I hope, during your recuperation, that you took some of your own advice and slowed down and took care of yourself and allowed your family and friends to help and support you! I have my 2020 calendar and I can’t wait to open it! I am loving my 2019 calendar! My kids gave me your Gratitude and Autumn books for my birthday! I love them too! It has been fun collecting your books this year!
Take care of yourself and enjoy the last few weeks of summer!
Love the cups especially the pumpkin heads. Sorry to hear of your accident.
My Mom and I love your blog!
So sorry about your arm! My heart totally understands! Glad your making progress thru recovery! And I ❤️❤️❤️ the sound of silence! My favorite place to be! I’ve always been a good listener!