Good Morning . . . We have it all today! Love, Groundhogs, and Memories, on this first day of February. But first off I need to tell you about our new favorite TV series, the Detectorists. Have you seen it? It’s a comedy about the little things in life and the extremely eccentric members of the Danebury Metal Detecting Club as they search for ancient treasure in the English countryside. What’s not to love? You can see it on Amazon or Acorn. So funny! Rachel told me about it, and she was right. It’s adorable. I’ve fallen in love with the theme MUSICA. The lead players remind me of the guys in the Full Monty, only they keep their clothes on. Watch if you can! Let me know what you think!
Okay, get something hot to drink, grab a Kleenex (just in case you cry) and come back. I’m about to jump around, subject-wise!
Hello! ‘Tis Moi! Rabbit Rabbit! 
Happy February! So much to tell you! Starting with Groundhog Day because it’s happening TOMORROW! 
Treat yourself to a cozy evening and this delicious comfort-food winter dinner . . . 
If you click on the link, you’ll see I wrote that the recipe for Onion “Punxsutawney” Pudding “wasn’t in a cookbook yet” ~ at that time it wasn’t, but it is now! If you have the 30th Anniversary of Heart of the Home, it’s on page 76. The Pineapple Spareribs are on p. 105.❤️ (Ooops, just noticed I left the 2 cups of pineapple juice out of the recipe above!😜 It’s in the book though!) This dinner does double duty ~ it’s perfect for Groundhog Day; light a few candles and it’s a romantic Valentine Dinner. I am hoping Punxsutawney Phil doesn’t see his shadow tomorrow! Although, I’m enjoying this lovely quiet winter now that I’m finally over that flu or whatever it was that attacked us in January!
I’ve been painting like crazy. Back to my normal ways of up early, dialing up the heat, filling my water dish, getting my tea, feeding Jack, turning on lamps as I walk through the house to the studio, quiet, just me and my kitty. Joe’s asleep and wants nothing to do with us! I’ve been painting for the 2021 calendars. I laugh because I signed the contract to do the 2021 calendars in 2019, they will arrive at our studio in 2020. This is why I never know what year it is!
I don’t know what I’m going to do with this, maybe put him in a calendar, but I decided I couldn’t live any longer without a Jack finger puppet, so I painted him. That was a few hours of joy!
He ignores me. Although he just walked across my lap to curl up here . . .
. . . in my open desk drawer. Next life I’m coming back as one of my cats.
Hope you’re enjoying your calendars this year! For all of you with the English Countryside Calendar on your wall, I thought you might like to see February in the 12 x 12 wall calendar ⬆️!
And for you with the Wall Calendar, here’s February in the English Countryside! Don’t want you to miss anything! Hooray for February!
No matter which calendar, time-wise, they have everything in common! At the end of the month, we’re getting something we’re always wishing for, MORE TIME …it’s Leap Year! Make a plan for the 29th because you won’t see it again until 2024! If you haven’t seen the the movie, Leap Year , this would be an excellent time to do so. Such a fun movie, filmed all over Ireland, Amy Adams and Mathew Goode (Mary’s husband), put it on your calendar, you’ll love it.
Mas MUSICA? . . . Speaking of putting things on your calendar . . . I promised to tell you about
the Mother’s Day Tea/Twine booksigning events in Duxbury, Massachussets as soon as the dates were firm ~ And they are! It’s going to be amazing. Picture a room filled with spring flowers, teapots and garden clippings, with grandmothers, mothers, daughters and sisters (Husbands, grandfathers, dads, and brothers are welcome too!), a room filled with friendship, community, connection, books, hats, 
England, joy, kindred spirits, and a catered meal (they’re making recipes from my books!) that has both a Julia Child, AND a Prince Harry and Meghan connection ~ all in celebration of Mother’s Day!!! YES! YES! YES! We want everyone who would like to come, to join us … so we decided to do not one, but two events to make sure everyone gets a ticket.
The first event will be a catered “Light Supper with Wine” (Twine!) on Wednesday, May 6, from 4 to 7 pm. The next day, on Thursday, 
May 7, from 1 to 3 pm, we’re having “An English Lunch with Tea.” For both events, I’ll be doing a presentation ~ I’m thrilled to be doing a show and tell with my favorite photos of the English Countryside, a little bit about history, maybe a dab of ancestry, and every wonderful thing I can think of about Beatrix Potter, including our Picnic at Castle Cottage. On top of that, each guest will receive 
their very own copy of the first chapter of ENCHANTED, my new book-in-progress! Andrea, the person in charge of this event, has many other little surprises, but they’re a secret . . . she’s as excited as I am. So, what’s on your calendar for May??? Registration begins 8 am, March 24th … online at www.duxburyseniorcenter.org ~ they’ve put nothing on their website yet, it’s too early. Put “Tickets!” on your calendar for March 24th so you don’t forget! Bring your mom, your sister, your best friend, and come! New England is beautiful in May!
This is where we’ll meet, at 10 Mayflower Street in the charming New England seaside town of Duxbury (settled in 1632), just up the coast from historic Plymouth (where the Mayflower landed), and about 45 minutes south of Boston.
So how about a few more reasons to love February ~ the month that celebrates LOVE! … But, first some flowers, and then a story, and then a surprise.
Joe stopped at the florist on his way home yesterday and brought us this big breath of fresh air. Aren’t they the cheeriest?
You know I’ve always said that Valentine’s Day is for women, because it’s US who’re crazy about it, the idea of it, the romance of it, the hearts, lace, chocolates, musica. But there’s all kinds of Valentine love isn’t there? And for so many of us, best friends, moms and sisters are the best Valentine’s we could ever hope for. We should make sure all of our beloveds gets a Valentine. A card is enough, via snail mail, in a real envelope with a real stamp!💖
We’re lucky, we found so many kindred spirits when we found each other! From EVERYWHERE: the Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand, England, Wales, Canada, France, and Spain, 
to Texas, Georgia, Hawaii, Wisconsin, Washington, Tennessee, Ohio, California, Minnesota, Florida, Alabama, Indiana, Arizona, Illinois, North Carolina, Virginia, and Kansas ~ from sea to shining sea and across this beautiful world that gets smaller every day. And we found everything in common, kindness, tolerance, acceptance, home, family, petty-pets, cooking, sewing, beauty, England, tea, memories, china dishes, little vases, creativity, table settings, books, yard sales, movies, quilts, the moon, sunrises, and sunsets, to name a few.
We’ve been through all seasons, we’ve fed chickens, celebrated first snows, first daffodils, 4th of July, and fireflies. We’ve gone back to school, and sent our thanks and encouragement to our teacher and nurse girlfriends. We’ve branched out to Twitter, Facebook, and 
Instagram ~ to bookstores, picnics, and even ocean liners … where we’ve connected with even more kindred spirits. We’ve shared our laughter, our parents, our children, our holidays, and our travels, our joys, our silliness, and yes, our losses. Every so often our hearts break when we lose someone; we do it together, say goodbye to a pet, a husband, a dad, a sister, a child, a best friend. But that’s what life is, it’s sunshine and shadow, it’s connection, it’s EVERYTHING, and that’s what we are, Everything. Which brings me to a sweet memory and a kind of miracle. Three years ago, just yesterday, we lost our Girlfriend Karen Peterson. Many of you remember her, those of us that met her saw the lovelight in her eyes. She is gone, but her sweetness is remembered, and she left a legacy of love. Read on, you’ll see.
Got your Kleenex? This is me with Karen. Yesterday our Girlfriend Doreen left a letter in the comment section of the blog. I knew this story would resonate and asked if I could share it with you and she said yes ~ so here we go, to you and me, from Doreen:
Hi Susan, I have a little story I think might bring a smile to your face and a warmness within your heart.
Many years ago….I came to your blog and met some of the nicest women. One of the was Karen Peterson. I’m not sure if you remember her but Rosie had 
you autograph a napkin for her and so did Joe during one of your book signings. Well anyway… Karen and I became good friends after meeting here on your blog. We’d chat on the phone, send messages by snail mail, buy little gifts for each other and became such good friends.
If you remember me, you will remember my husband was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor back five years ago.( I shared that on your blog). Karen would get up in the middle of the night and check on me online. (Richard was unable to sleep because of the steroids he was on) . She’d bake 
cookies and mail them to him. (which he loved) Then when he passed, Karen was always just a phone call away. She’d cry with me and provided me with such loving emotional support.
Well, about eight months later, Karen herself was diagnosed with the exact same thing. She passed three years ago today. Karen would share with her husband Gregory that if he need any emotional support or had questions, to call me. Gregory knew who I was because of Karen telling him what was going on. I’d call and talk to Karen while she was on her cancer journey. Gregory would call every so often just to talk, share his grief and we’d cry and share memories together.💔 We did this for several years until around 8 months ago when we started talking more often to each other. Then one day he said something and it caught me by surprise. I said, “Greg…are you flirting with me?” He responded with “Yes…I think I am!” and that is when it all started happening. We are now currently engaged to be married. He proposed to me on Jan. 21st. of this year. We are looking forward to marrying in the near future.
So…needless to say…we have both found happiness again. Something both of 
us thought we’d never find. Especially because I live in Florida
and he lives in Wisconsin!!!! This, my friend, is all because of your blog! If I hadn’t met Karen here…Greg and I wouldn’t have ever met each other. It goes to prove…becoming friends and maintaining that friendship has really nothing to do with physically meeting… it has to do with the connections of hearts… the hearts of kindred spirits. I look forward to continuing my loving friendships with the others I’ve met here like Rosie, Georgie, and Cynthia to name a few. Our ability to share in the joy of finding happiness because of this blog has not gone unnoticed. We’ve formed 
friendships that will last as long as our earthly journeys do. I would share with you the picture of the napkin you and Joe signed for Karen, but I don’t think this page will allow me to upload it. It’s in a frame hanging in the bedroom. It’s a reminder to me how so many different women found and share a wonderful friendship….all because our kindred spirits met here…beginning with you! You tie to altogether for us. One beautiful sisterhood! EMC! ~ Doreen ~
Wasn’t that beautiful? It’s all of us together, really. I’m so happy for them, for Doreen and Greg, and for the memories of Karen and Richard. Somehow I think Karen pulled this whole thing together. Unbelievable, Florida and Wisconsin! You just never know what life has in store for you.💞 
And so, before I go, before the surprise, I have a few little Valentines I thought you might like . . . little things to help make someone’s day.💖
This is Joe’s Valentine breakfast ~ waffles! Kids love them too! We have heart-shaped waffle makers that use no electricity, cook on a burner, and work like a charm ~ they come complete with my waffle recipe and make you look like magic!
For you, a Valentine bookmark to keep or tuck in with your Valentine cards… click HERE, print on card stock, and laminate if you like.
And back, by popular demand, Secret Notes!!! A little box of 32 love notes to put into pockets, backpacks, purses, and gift bags!
And Banners!!! Janie made us lots of darling banners . . . 
And, here’s the SURPRISE . . . my Valentine’s Gift to you . . . a giveaway . . .
. . . two of my favorite cups, good for Valentines, but good for year round! Just leave a message in the comment section and you’ll be entered . . . in a few days we’ll have a drawing and off they will go to the lucky winner!❤️ You will be happy no matter if you’re left-handed or . . .
. . . right-handed . . . big, 16 oz, thin-lipped, fine bone china, limited-edition cups made in luv-lee England.
And this reminder, from me to you with love. Take a deep breath and remember, if mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy. We need you. xoxox
Heigh-ho heigh-ho, it’s back to work I go . . . don’t forget to leave a word or two if you’d like a chance to win those cups! Look right there ⬇️ for a tiny number and the word “comments” … click there and leave a message. Have fun Girlfriends, Happy February! ❌⭕️
I shared Doreen’s story with my mom. She loved as much I did. I thought I’d left a comment yesterday but did not see it posted – my mistake I’m sure. Thank you for this blog. I really enjoy it. The Doreen story was great – Happy Valentine’s Day!
Dear “heart” … thank you so much for the lovely story & for always, always bringing into our worlds such love, tenderness, uplifting words from you, who are an inspiration. Happy Valentine’s Day to you, Joe & Jack.
Wonderful blog post as usual, Susan! Happy Groundhog Day….it feels like Spring here in northeast Ohio..50 degrees, blue skies, breezy. So happy to have found you and to be part of the girlfriends.
Love having you Pam!
Darling girl, do u remember the beginning? I remember almost-the-beginning. Love -begets-love, and the ripples never cease! I’ve been drinking my coffee from your Martha’s Vineyard cup lately. Tell Joe to hug you for me. XO
Will do JoEllen!😘
I was blown away reading all your post today but the “Pledge for a Best Friend” is going to be copied (giving you credit of course) for a Valentine for all my friends.
Thank you for putting words into my mouth because these words never come into my brain on my own. Thank You.
Seems like January just flew by. I love your paintings, especially the birds and animals. Your blog is most pleasant to start February.
I LOVE your words, your love of all things English, everything you write. You are a gift. Have a snowy, delightful, February.
With much love, Suzanne
I loved the beautiful love story. Thanx for sharing. The stress section resonated with me especially today. I interviewed for a job I really wanted on Friday but know I did not get. Your suggestions were helpful. I started doing my steps a few weeks ago and I know that helps. I will start 5,000 steps tomorrow not great for you young whippersnappers but pretty good for a soon to be 76er. Will go back to meditation today
I don’t have to say it, clearly, but I kinda want to: You GO girl. xoxoxoxoxoxo
Happy day to you…love the heart banner!
Dear Susan: One of my favorite things are your Secret Notes! They are just perfect to insert in packages or envelopes when gifting family & friends. Thanks for bringing them back.
😍Judy
Hi Susan,
What a nice happy sad post. Life is a real surprise in so many ways. Just keep believing.
I can’t believe my big yellow orange Garfield kitty weighs 25 pounds. Like your Jack she is my shadow. Now I can believe in Spring too, smarty pants woodchuck said so. Thank you for being you.
Nancy Jo
Hello, Susan; Your blog is always such a gift to see in my inbox and read. It always feels so “cozy & warm” to read the stories and quotes and recipes you have to share. What a beautiful love story about Doreen and Greg. It must warm your heart to know that your legacy includes bringing people together in its many ways! I have been following you since your first Heart of the Home. I too moved from CA to New England (CT). I painted my daughter’s nursery 24 years ago as a “garden” a la Susan Branch. I still have a snail mail Willard. You touch my heart and my life in so many ways, that Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to tell you! (and Joe!). And some day I will win the perfect Susan Branch cup meant for me! 🙂 Rabbit, Rabbit!
What a beautiful and bittersweet love story! Thank you for sharing with all of us! Wishing Doreen and Gregory many years of happiness and love. <3 I love the dragonflys you drew (between the banner and mugs) Can you please make something with them? a mug or bookmark? Thank you! Happy Valentines day to you and Joe.
xoxo Mary
Doreen and Greg’s love story…..Wonderful!
I love your artwork! Those tea cups are absolutely adorable! I can picture myself sipping tea out of them!
0k, so I thought, what would I need a kleenex for, she who dabs her eyes at most Hallmark movies! Such a wonderful story and that love found those two through all those states! And it was a two kleenexer! The only thing I’m questioning is how two girlfriends got in touch since our address’s aren’t published. I think I’d like to reach out to a few people who I’ve resonated with.
Did you know that here on Cape Cod we don’t pay too much attention to Phil in PA because we have our own Clem the Clam predictor? He did squirt the clam flats today and we will have our early Spring! Just a little wee bit less known than Phil! I love the pictures of Jack, such a character! I also love the vintage Valentine you have on this blog of the little ginger kitty. I lost my Pumpkin over a year ago, and I will never be the same. Happy Galentine’s day dear Susan and thank you for all the love! As I’ve said before, you’ve certainly found your Soul’s purpose here on Earth! Thank you for all you do!
You can reply to each others comments … we also do “Pen Pals” on my Facebook page every so often. We can make it happen!
Twitter too, Sandi. u can reply to people who comment on Susan’s tweets. A great community there❤️❤️❤️❤️
I just love your ….you! I wish you lived near me, but this will have to do. You come on over anytime…ya hear?
Wonder blog. And your political commitment are right on. Thank you for expressing what so many of us think but don’t have a place to put them. Roslyn
Oh, my – what a great post and a wonderful story about people finding love again! You never know where life will lead you. And it all started with your blog! Thanks for all your great posts – and a chance to win those mugs. Adorable. Just the ticket for tea for me and my wonderful husband. Hope you are having a great February weekend….here there is chicken soup simmering on the stove, homemade noodles to be made, and a stack of good books from the library waiting for me to enjoy them. I hope we have more winter…it is SO cozy. And then a great Spring to come. Thanks, Susan, for your inspiration and kindness.
Thank you for another lovely blog post. We love getting an email to tell us that a blog post is ready to read!!
I love it too, Jan! xoxo
Well, if that wasn’t the sweetest story ….. Thanks for sharing. Also my husband and I started watching the Detectorists last night! So, thanks too for that….and for the give away. You always make me smile!
Hi Susan, Well the Groundhog has said spring is around the corner–hurray! Let’s hope he’s right!!
I just noticed your blog and, as usual, loved reading every word.
Take care, and thanks for loving us and lifting our spirits.
What a sweet, beautiful story you shared today! I love it! Thank you so much for being YOU and making the world a happier, lovelier place. I am so glad you are feeling better and hope your month is full of LOVE and happiness! xoxo
Dear Susan ~ What a joy it is to have your creativity and vitality in my life. I am in my 70’s and mostly home bound so your blog bring a lot of happiness into my life. I have a wonderful hubby and son who lives with us and is our caregiver so I am blessed. I didn’t know this February is a leap year until I read it on the blog:) I also loved the Jack finger puppet and the lovely vintage valentines:) The story about Karen was a heart warming and brings to life the precious meaning of friends in our lives. I am a twitter “friend” of yours also and we have many things in common for sure. Sending a sweet wish for a wonderful Valentine’s Day to you and your hubby.
Was just a bit verklempt because your blog was not responding! Much activity I presume as the month of love is here and you spread love with your entries! Great love story-thank you for sharing! Also enjoyed Jack’s antics-would love the quiet presence of a cat but my German Shepard would not. Sending hearts and flowers to all girlfriends….where would we be without our girlfriends both near and far. 🥰
That was a great love story – thanks for sharing! And I am always interested in seeing precious photos of Jack (you and Joe too)!
Dearest Susan,
I LOVE your blog! I love your pictures; your sketches; your wonderful sayings; your beautiful fonts; the gorgeous colours you use…everything about you is so uplifting and special! I loved the story of Doreen and Greg. At Church, this Christmas, we had a preach regarding what we wanted for our New Year. What to get and what to give, and I decided to get back in contact with old friends and renew friendships which has ‘drifted’. The story of Doreen and Greg was a wonderful reminder that I still have more work to do to reintroduce the love of old friends back into my life. And, being English, we always celebrate (everything in life!) with a nice pot of tea! <3 I think your beautiful cups should return to Luv-lee England where they will be very much appreciated!
I also enjoyed seeing all of your calendars, even though I have them all – including the little blue one that is the perfect size for one's handbag! I think they are so beautiful that I also gave them out as Christmas gifts! :0) Sending you much love from this side of the 'pond'. xxx
These mugs would be so appreciated in Maine! Hugs and thanks for your consideration❤️
Thank you for always being the bright spot in our sometimes very dark world. We appreciate you more than you know!
Happy Valentine’s Day!!❤⚘
Corie Jones
Olympia, WA
What a miraculous love story. Blessings to Doreen and Greg! Susan, you have created a space of love, friendship, home and all that really matters.. a place where the angels Karen and Doreen were able to connect! Wow I am in awe of the universe! Wow.
I have already sent out texts to sweet daughters and best friends to come with me to your tea or supper May 6 or 7th:) Fingers crossed:) Have a blessed Feb. I know you will:)
Oh I hope so Care!
The BEST daughters in my world!! Got right back and said they are IN!! March 24th is on my calendar. Big smiles:) I love all the girl friend’s comments… more smiles!
BE sure to telL me your name so I recognize who you ARE!! I’ll recognize it! FUN! Happy you can come and bring the girls!
What a beautiful story! So glad they found each other.
Doreens story made my heart happy!
I have been blessed with just such a best friend as your posted poem describes. We met as babies in Sunday School and then went to all 12 grades of school together. We are still best of friends even though she lives in California and I in Ohio. She has loved and supported me all my life. Flying in to see her brother’s Children’s Theatre perfomance for Christmas( he was the director), she invited me to stay the night in the old upstairs bedroom with slanted ceilings and antique 4-poster bed we had shared a few times in the past. It was just the same!! We talked into the night. We are now both 75 years old. We don’t see each often, but when we do, a lifetime of love and loyalty shines in our eyes. She is the person who first introduced me to you with your Christmas book years ago. Thank you for holding the value of friendship high.
Heaven!
I watched all of The Detectorists and keep hoping for a Season Four. I don’t want to give any spoilers, so I won’t say more! ‘-) Thank you, Susan. You always inspire. I don’t eat meat and often get into a rut with my choices — that Onion Pudding sounds delicious and right up my alley, with a salad of garbanzo beans (lemon juice, Italian parsley and parmesan – simple and delicious!). xo Nancy
Thanks for bringing a little sunshine to dreary Pa. A cup of tea, a story from you and your adorable art makes for a cozy spell. Many blessings! stay snug and warm.
My two favorite shapes….stars and hearts=die hard romantic!
And this blog post was incredibly romantic! Hope Doreen shares pictures of their big day!
Glad you are writing more blog posts again. Winter in Wisconsin is even longer without your cheery comments, pictures, drawings, recipes, and giveaways!
P. S. I’m excited about Duxbury, MA and hope it’s possible to take one of those days off. It’s Nurses’ Week and I plan the nurses’ dinner for the hospital, which most probably will be one of those days, but surely I’ll be able to make one! Fingers crossed, Nancy
Hope so Nancy!
Dear Susan,
Happy February! I love your blog and always have. I was so excited to see your new post. I continue to be inspired by your creativity!! February certainly is the month of “LOVE”. I just made your spiced pecans recipe- to go with a big salad for tonight. You share so many wonderful things—Art the love of cooking and homemaking and so much more! Thank you!
From Australia, my second attempt at this. Doesn’t like my email address. Oh well. It has been a hard summer here with illness, unbelievable heat, fires, smoke haze and dust storms and then your blog arrives in my feed like a ray of light. Thank you.
We’ve been watching you very closely Julie, praying for you, so sad for all your losses. So happy to see you here. xoxoxo
Julie, which part of Australia are you from? We’ve certainly had a devastating time …incredible fires for months now, so much loss of life, property and wildlife…..we have a ravaged country. For those who are from other places in the world, at one point, incredibly, we had fires burning (some out of control) in every state. Fires are still burning and yet some areas are now flooding. I hope in all of this you and yours are safe, Julie.
God bless from a fellow Aussie
God bless you both, God bless us all.🌍
What a lovely blog with a sad but romantic story! Sigh. Perfect for February.
If any of the girlfriends “out there” have a moment when they say their prayers, I’d really appreciate a prayer for me. I go into the hospital a week from today – Sunday, Feb. 9th if all goes well – for a bone marrow transplant. All is well in my soul but if God sees fit I’d like a few more years to celebrate life with grandchildren!
Thank you! Ain’t life (and love) grand??
February 9th! I’ll start right now! With your beautiful attitude, I think you will sail right through. And life will get good again! xoxo
Many prayers for success and healing, Lori. Praying now, but will put it on my calendar too ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you both!
There is a lot wrong in the world but I have found so much love and good as well and this little world of tea, fairy tales, kitties and art has the “good” in abundance.
Love your blog…everything about it. Jack is adorable. We have four cats in our tiny home. Two of them adopted us last year when they came to our yard. They are all a joy.
hello Susan, Girlfriends. Happy groundhog day!! and Phil predicts and early spring, though how he did I will never know… we’re getting snow and rain!!! congratulations to Doreen and Greg, may they have a good and happy life together. what a lovely story their story is. well its been busy here, up and down to check on MIL and to see to it that the nurse is doing the job. FIL goes to the lodge everyday (Fraternal Order of Eagles very similar to the Moose or Elks lodge) for 5-6 hours and MIL cannot be alone so the nurse is there to make sure she does her walking, takes her meds and stays on her diet. its been an uphill battle getting him to settle down and realize she can no longer do the housework, cook and look after him, its up to him now. so the nurse is there to help them both but mostly to look after MIL. MIL had a heart attack Christmas morning around 2. A.M. and we got the call, we were off and scrambling for the hospital and then off to the airport to pick up family (SIL and her daughter) who came to help out. since then it has been down to the in-law’s to check on them, and back home and then back again. MIL faces open heart surgery in a month or so, and even with that her outlook is not good perhaps 1-2 years to go. we also now know she has Alzheimer’s and it has kicked in major time. and that’s what we have been up to since December. well off to go check on the chickens, we got a new rooster today, a youngster and I want to be sure the older rooster leaves him alone and lets him settle in with the younger hens. our older rooster is getting older and he finds keeping up with the youngsters a bit of a challenge, well this younger rooster can learn from Jake our older one and help out with the hens. but for now he can settle in and get used to everyone and learn the routine there. he is a pretty rooster, so I have to take a good look at him and decide on a name for him. any ideas anyone??? he is a Buff Orpington/ Ameraucana breed and a pretty handsome fellow if I do say so. have a great day everyone, time to seriously look at the seed catalogs for the spring gardens and for me to look at the hatchery catalog for some more chickens this spring…. spring will be here soon enough. Happy groundhog day. hugs…… 😀
Susan, what a nice surprise and beautiful blog!! I love reading the comments from other girlfriends. We are all in this together! Thanks for sharing the love story. I believe that some things are meant to be.
This week is the anniversary of my sweet husband’s death, so I really appreciate the precious blog and a very special love story. Much love to you, Joe and Jack. Bridget
Aren’t the comments great? I love them too! It makes me very slow getting them up, but I have to read every one! I hope you have sweetest dreams all this week Bridget. xoxo
Wishing Doreen and Gregory a long and happy marriage with many blessings!
I’m a little bit sad because I posted a comment in the beginning two days ago.
scrolled down de 798 comments and then again the 800 but nowhere could find the wishes for the happy couple to be and my story I shared with you.
So have to try again and hopefully it will stay this time.
There was a comment of Trudy who lost her husband in december 2019,but that was not me…..
Happy Valentine to everyone and to you Susan and Jo.
Greeting,Trudy from Holland [the Netherlands]
Keep looking Trudy, it may still be on here, I’m trying to read them as fast as I can, but more keep piling on top of the comments already here . . . perhaps yours is at the bottom. I promise, sooner or later, I will get there! Greetings to you in the Netherlands! xoxo
Since we have leap year, what better way to spend the extra time then at a Bridal Tea? I am hosting a bridal shower for my daughter on leap year! Fun dresses, hats, and pearls! Little sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, bite size sweets and lots of tea in bone china cups. The English Rose Tea Shop is going to be all ours for two hours that afternoon and we are all looking forward to it.
What fun! Tell them I said hello! A wonderful place for a Bridal Tea!
Thank you, Susan for such a lovely heart warming true-love story! And for your words, photos, quotes and not least your brilliant illustrations. They always make me happy and feeling that all will be well.
It is special to be awake during the peaceful quiet of dawn, isn’t it?!
Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe. xo
Happy 02/02/2020!!! The next time there is a date that is both forward and backward is in 909 years. Do you think we will see that day? So Happy Valentine Day, have a romantic day with Joe and Jack! That is a very romantic story about Doreen.
PS.. I have the Mother’s Day cup and love to have my morning tea in it and the way it feels in your hand. Pansies are one of my favorites!!
Happy Valentine’s Day Susan and Joe.❤️❤️❤️
Thank you for your wonderful blog. I am sitting here recovering from the flu and it is so nice to read your uplifting words. I heard we are going to have an early spring🌷🌷🌷, in the mean time I will enjoy everyday and look forward to hearing from you again soon.
🙏🏻💜Wendy
Dear Susan
You are always on time!!!
When I am needing a touch of loveliness in my life your blog arrives. I start thinking one should come soon so I can savor every word and be encouraged and blessed. Then voila’ there it is 🙂 I know it isn’t voila’ on your end! and I appreciate each word, each brush stroke, each picture and each creative idea so much. Thank you again for your inspiration kindred spirit.
Mary in Salida CO
Thank you, Susan, for another wonderful love letter. I learn so much reading your blog. I would have never known about the Detectorists, and now I’m very anxious to see it. I loved Mackenzie Crook in Pirates of the Caribbean; so glad to see him in this funny and successful hit. Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe and Jack!
Yes, he wrote it too! You’ll love his great insight into the relationships between men and women!
Susan, thanks so much for the very touching story. My older sister passed away Jan 9 of glioblastoma , diagnosed nov 18, 2019. So we were very blind sighted by this. Your blog always makes me feel better and that there is goodness in the world.
What a terrible shock. “There is so much goodness in the world.” And you know who wrote that in her little diary? Anne Frank. ❤️💔😘
Thank-you so very much 💕
Congratulations and Best Wishes to Doreen and Greg. What a beautiful story! It happened in a similar way for another friend of mine this year, and what joy that can come after grief!
Looking forward to printing out some Valentines for my friends. Thank you!
You’re such a drop of sunshine on a wintery day! Grateful to hear such a happy ending to that sweet story!
Such a sweet love story! Thanks for sharing!
Every time I read your blog I think “it can’t get any lovelier”…and then it does:) I especially loved the story of Karen and the others…we never know what God has in store for us. Your blog also always reminds me of how thankful I am for my 7 best friends that I went through high school with and am still friends with (we recently lost the 8th one I’m so sad to say). Girlfriends are so very important. Thank you for always sharing your wonderful talent with us.
I’m so sorry. I bet its tightened up the space between you other 7. SO lucky, are you. xoxoxo
Oh my goodness, that love story just made my day❤️👏❤️👏 It makes me think of that wonderful quote from Louis L’Amour – “There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. Yet that will be the beginning.”🥰
Happy February, Susan! Rabbit, rabbit (a day late) & a Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe ♥♥♥ Super congratulations to Doreen and Greg – what fabulous news & a joyous love story! So happy for them ♥ You have been a gatherer of friends and hearts for a long time now and rightfully so 🙂 Keep up the good work!
Duxbury is such a lovely place…For years I lived only a few towns over; many fond memories. Your girlfriends will enjoy your talk there in that lovely town.
It was 60 degrees here today! I put out my little plaque “Happiness is the first sign of Spring” – and a Laura Ashley pitcher filled with pink tulips. Thanks for the lovely giveaway and the happy post! xox
So nice to get a great February blog! Love those cups…. so cute!
We’re all getting a bit antsy about winter, or at least I am. But here in Tennessee, I shouldn’t complain, as I have Lenten roses blooming today. They are gorgeous! Thank you for the fun book mark!
Ginny
Thanks Susan. I had trouble being able to see the blog this morning (Sunday) for some reason and am very happy it is working this afternoon. Your blog is a pick-me-up and the news about “Enchanted” is exciting. I haven’t heard anything about the movie–any news?
Happy Sunday,
Deborah
Yes, the blog went down for me too! I have no idea why, but I was happy to see it come back! As for the movie, it’s still happening, I hear of interest, but everything is very slow . . . so we’ll just have to wait and see!
A wonderful treat on a bleary winter day, loved the love story❤️
Your blog is a joy. It is beautiful and yet practical with lots of wisdom nuggets. I always feel “ lighter” after reading your blog post.
What a wonderful story! A story that began as heartache and ended with the miracle of New Love. Goes to show that movie-happy-ever-after endings really do happen. Happy Valentine’s Day to you!
As always, your blogs brighten my day!
Thanks for another great blog. So much love with our kindred spirits.
How scared I was earlier today when my computer said it could not find your page. But, finally, while I was napping, my husband found it on his phone, and had a lovely surprise for me when I got up: Susan Branch.com. Whew. Life can go on and it is good!! Thanks for all you say to us and show us.
What a touching story! Your whole blog touches my heart and I enjoy reading it so much. I would love to win a mug. Thank you for the chance.
I love your cups – they make my tea taste better!! And your February blog lifted the gloom of winter for me. Thank you, Susan! 💕
Such a beautiful story… love wins after all ❤️
Love you!
Rosanne
Valentine’s day, my favorite holiday, so of course I loved this blog. Thanks for always brightening my days!
You were not kidding about the tissues!! Thank you for always bringing sunshine to my day. xo
Happy, the Corgi and I wish you a Valentine full of love!
Thank you for another wonderful and uplifting blog. Warms my heart and soul. Glad you are feeling better! Thank you for including the sweet love story – blessings to the happy couple.
Wish I could come to the tea but it is a long way from Texas. I would be so happy to receive a new mug to add to my collection of 2.
All my loving,
Jeannie
Thanks for the chance to win!
February is a time of getting thru winter with love ❤️And possibilities
Tally Ho
With everything that has been happening in the world it was so nice to read your recent post. It always offers such kindness and goodness in the world. Thank you Susan. Mindy
I almost cried when you wrote about stress relief. I had a stressful few days and now doing my best to unwind. I am going to hop into a bubble bath and relax some more.
I always enjoy your blog posts. I can’t wait till your new book comes out. Happy Love Month to you and Joe.😊
We forget sometimes, and when we remember, it’s so emotional. I hope your bubble bath was heaven!
It’s always a delight to find a new post from you! Was listening to NPR yesterday-This American Life, and it was all about DELIGHT. Thank you for being one of those people who spread delight everywhere. Life gets busy, and there’s barely time to breathe, and then I remember I haven’t checked your blog in a while. And when there’s a new one? Oh Happy Day! everything is better.
Many, many thanks. Glad you and Joe are feeling better.
Thanks for beautiful message! Look forward to your to your messages….always cheers me up. Thanks so much! Nancy
Dear Susan, I was just thinking that we hadn’t heard from you in awhile. I then opened my email and there you were! Thank you, thank you for your wonderful descriptions of pretty much everything. Thank you for sharing yourself with all of us. Can’t wait to read your next book! Happy, happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe!
So happy to see your blog today as it is quite dreary here in OH. And what a wonderful letter you shared with us. It absolutely made my day. Also my sweet husband enjoyed it, too. I love it when you refer to England as we had a marvelous trip there 4 yrs.ago & I would love to return. Thanks again for your wonderful blog and send ing many blessings your way.
I cannot wait for your new book Enchanted to come out! I’ve read all your books over and over and enjoy them so much! Thank you!
Greetings from Maine i always Look forward to your posts! Enjoying a cup of tea in one of your mugs now,,, while reading your latest post. Thank you for sharing the beautiful story.
Love Love Love, wishes from me to everyone here and to everyone who has yet to land here.❤️
We love ‘The Detectorists’! Great show and lovely music. So English! Happy Valentine’s Day, and Happy Ground Hog Day!
Just love your posts, Susan. Thanks for sharing yourself with us. 😍
It’s always so wonderful to see your name pop up in my email, but especially so today. It was wonderful as usual, but your reminder at the end of it, about stress creeping up on you and causing problems, WITH the solutions was so inspiring. I MUST start exercise and meditation, along with all your other ideas, especially the laughter!
My dear friend, Carol, and I used to work for many years in our university library together and we were always having laughing fits together and we always felt so GOOD afterwards! We would sometimes get to the point where we couldn’t talk to get out the next quip we wanted to say to the other one, or tears – HAPPY tears – would be running down our cheeks. And it would get to the point in these “fits” (I think there is a French word for it but I can’t remember now what it is), where we would just LOOK at each other and go off again.
I guess I just assumed those times would go on forever, but Carol retired early due to health issues, and it was never the same for me at work after she left. Thankfully she overcame the challenge, but then had to deal with her husband’s health challenges – WONDERFUL funny man – and then he passed and it was very sad. Even though we still live close together, it seems we don’t get together as we used to and I really miss those laughing fits. I firmly believe they helped to keep us healthier! Aging itself can be so stressful, (along with the news – sigh) so we need all the help we can get! We’ve been talking about lunch together for weeks – we STILL have to exchange our Christmas presents (it’s Groundhog Day, for Pete’s sake!) but every time we set a time, one of us isn’t feeling well enough (usually me – AUGH!!!!) and we postpone and postpone and postpone…………..
Your message today has helped me to decide to exercise, meditate and DO THAT LUNCH!!! 🙂 Who knows? Maybe we will be graced with one of our old “FOU RIRE” (finally thought of the French expression) and set the world to rights again. 🙂
Thank you, Susan, for all you do!
Good girl!!!! Where there’s a will, there’s a way. xoxoxo
Blessed by this love note💕Don’t forget Delaware…
Loved today’s blog. So encouraging. Thank you for being sunshine in our lives.
Thank you, Susan! Your blog is an island of happiness in an ocean of (seemingly endless) bad news cycles. You’re right, the little touches are what makes life good and a home cozy. I’m glad the blog got fixed! I was saving it for this morning and then I couldn’t access it. Happy to see it up again. Have a great day!
What a beautiful story of hope and love and friendship.
Such a sweet “letter” from you! The cups are soooo cute! I love the pledge for a best friend.
Hi Susan. You are a ray of sunshine on a cold snow-rainy day! I love cats too.I have three fur balls that love to cuddle on days like this! Love your Blog! Judy
Happy Valentine’s Day, Susan and Girlfriends!
Loved reading your blog today! How exciting for the soon to be newlyweds. It gave me chills reading their story, angels are looking out for them.
The story of Doreen, Karen, Richard & Greg is simply beautiful ❤️❤️❤️ and has all the makings of the kind of movie we girlfriends love to see. Thank you for sharing!
Wonderful sweet love story! Thanks for sharing💝
Happy February 🥰 what a beautiful I love story you printed. May the couple enjoy many years of happiness!~~ Patty
Hi Susan Thank you for your ray of sunshine on a cold windy day.You and my kitties keep me warm! Love Judy
Your blogs are such sweet joy! And the cups, beyond beautiful. PS….appreciate the left handedness, I need a left handed work of art!
I have been reading your blog for a long time and I don’t believe how close it makes me feel to the English country side, though I’ve never been. I love your painting style, also. Reminds me of Beatrix Potter and all her animal friends. I too, love Bunnies. I have them sitting all over the house. We have lots of live ones in our back yard. They make my husband and me laugh with their play time. One question, will your valentine cups you are giving away be available for sale. I love them.
Have a very love filled Valentines Day
The cups are available in our shopping section right now! Happy Valentine’s Day Michele!