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! ❌⭕️
Beautiful love story💕
Thank-you, thank-you Susan, for all you do! Your blog is fantabulous, and this one was especially poignant. So wonderful to hear real love stories in today’s world. And as I am typing this What the World Needs Now by Steve Tyrell has just come on, love it!
Happy February to all
Give me the simple life! xoxo
Are the comments turned off? Tried to post a comment but it hasn’t shown up. I’ll try again, just want to thank-you so much Susan for all that you do, your blog is wonderful. Happy February to you !
Happy February,
Love the blog. Love your writings, Love Joe’s heart waffles, Love Jack the cat, and Love the cups.
Thanks for the give-away chance, so fun—B
“Have I told you lately that I love you” — I remember my Daddy singing that to my mother.
Happy Valentine month to you and Joe and Jack!
Thank you for a lovely story, and you are generous as always, with the wonderful give away!
Snowdrops are popping up in our small garden, spring is on its way!
Much love from us all, and an extra hug from ME
Nicoline
xoxo
Happy Valentine’s Day! Thanks for always bringing love and happiness… You are all over my house, bringing smiles to me everywhere!!!
happy
Love the story very much
💕💕your words! Always wait to read them I until I can truly savor them! Thank you for sharing your amazing gifts with the world! 💕🙏🏻💕
Thank you Paula . . . xoxoxo
What a wonderful post (as always!!) I’ve replied to a girlfriend earlier on, but just in cases…for anyone who loves ‘Detectorists’ and needs something else to watch in a similar style, I highly recommend ‘Mum’ if you can find it. The excellent Lesley Manville and Peter Mullan lead the cast…it’s 3 seasons also and charts a womans journey back to happiness after the death of her husband. Much like ‘Detectorists’ it IS a comedy but has many other strands running through it and very character based. I watch it often and just adore it. Very British also…and the storyline links so nicely with that lovely tale of Doreen and Gregory and THEIR journey back to happiness together. I had lots of contact with the very beautiful Karen and I know how much she was loved and is missed. Her wonderful, generous spirit will rest easier I’m sure, knowing that her beloved husband has found happiness again. As ever, Susan and her miraculous blog bring joy and happiness into this often dark world! xoxo
I found your reply …. started season 3 last night 😩 (don’t want it to be over)… episode one, where they found the whistle? 😩 So touching. Thanks so much, from me and all the Girlfriends for this luv-lee recommendation! I hope we have Mum here . . . will be on the search. Love you darling. 😘
thank you for the recommendation “Mum” – found it on BritBox…..the characters teach us alot about patience and acceptance……
thank you, Susan – I don’t use “twitter”, so today, of all days, I use your blog to tell you we need your art, your love of nature and friends, for our future…..it is challenging not to feel like our dear country is repeating mistakes……how did we get to the place where money is the most important part of life? I suggest we all give of our time, our care, our energy – spending a few hours a week helping those in need….holding all our loved ones, critters, friends, family, even closer…..thank you for your stories of love…
Regina
I honestly don’t believe it’s the people, it’s the greed, and the secretiveness of the greed. They are a tricky bunch those power mongers. Our job is to educate ourselves, and they don’t make it easy! Love you Regina, thank you so much. xoxoxo
This is the first thing you see when you come to my Twitter page:
“Only when the last tree has died and the last river has been poisoned and the last fish has been caught will we realize we cannot eat money.” 🌳
Cree Indian Proverb
Checked the headlines online early this a.m. and nearly burst into tears. Came to the blog to quiet myself.
Greed has always been around and so often silent and illegal with corporationsn; not right, but what I wonder about is the rise and in-your-face hatred on the internet. You say it is not the people, but spewed hatred from the top down is spoken/written and supported by people. Sad.
Happy everything to you, oh bearer of all things peaceful, happy, loving, fun and KIND!
xoxoxo
Faye!
New George Washington Mini Series ~ three nights starting February 16… will cheer you right up! XOXOXOXO
Reading your blog makes me miss my daughter! I’d love to share a cup with her! We do crazy things like coffee or tea in the mornings even though we’re apart. Thank for sharing such a nice give away! Xo
What a beautiful, heart warming love story ❤️ It shows what good things really do happen in our crazy world. Thank you for sharing.
I love to start my day with your writings.
Dear Susan,
Love the 12×12 wall calendar Februari, my daughter said: looks like daddy! and yes it does a bit, only wish I had such lovely red hair as the lady:) This month is next to the autumn-months my favorite, a little romance, valentines, I Always go to YouTube to see A Comic Valentine of the Berenstain Bears, so cute! I’ve brought my little boy 4 year old to school again after having lunch at home.Lots of love from the Netherlands.
xxx Willemien
Lots of love right back to you Willemien. xoxoxo
Love that beautiful love story. Thanks to all for sharing. I also love these cups. Stay safe, stay warm and keep a heart full of love.
Thank you for sharing Doreen’s story!
And please enter my name in the drawing for
one of your lovely cups– it would be my first one! 🤞🏻
Lovely story! It took me a bit to get this to open on my computer but the wait was worth it! Time and faith are great healers to such tragedy. Thank you for reminding us to look at the “sunny side of life”.
Happy Valentine’s Day Susan!
Happy Valentine’s Day Girlfriends!
A month to celebrate love and friendship and the connections that make life sweet – what a blessing!
A delightful read. Love that we still have real life love stories. Love prevails, no matter what and in this world we need lots of love to heal and nurture our souls and the souls of those we love so dearly. Thanks for all you do.
Gosh, I couldn’t get into The Detectorists at all but thought Toby Jones was brilliant in Agatha Christie’s ‘Witness for the Prosecution’. Perhaps I’ll try again. I do enjoy,very much, Shakespeare and Hathaway or Brokenwood.
Thank you for the tip on Leap Year movie; always am grateful for recommendations on “decent” movies as there’s so much trash available.
Such a fabulous story of Florida and Wisconsin…God is absolutely amazing!
Take care, be well.
Try again on the Detectorists. They take two seasons to introduce you to the characters through their rather small, sweet, and normal lives, and then, in the third season, they give you magic. xoxo
Happy Valentines! I love your mugs! Hope I win.
Hello and Happy Heart Month! LOVE LOVE LOVE your words and the kindred spirits that you connect with them.
just read the blog and loved it so much, it was Beautiful thing to read on this dreary winter morning and I love your blogs, they are filled with so many joyful stories hey always make my day!!!
Happy Valentine’s Day Susan! You’ve inspired me to make some special Valentines (pottery heart ornaments and little heart dishes) to send to my best girlfriends! And the Nancy Luce quote has given me an idea for a heart within a heart ornament to make and give as an extra wedding gift! Thank you!
Perfect, and a story to go with it!
Always enjoy visiting your web page, a breath of fresh air!
Hearts, hearts. I love them and your post is full of them. The lacy heart banner is delightful. Thank you for this early Valentine’s gift! We knew we could count on you!
I look forward to and love your blog! It has inspired me to get back to myself after a long period of stress and sadness. Thank you so much ❤️
Love to think of you and your early mornings, paint brush in hand and sweet Jack in your desk drawer, Susan.❤️ I so look forward to your next book! Thank you for each “valentine” (blog, book, calendar) you send out into the world! Hugs!
Dear Susan & Joe Happy Valentines Day !!!
You are right about “The Detectorists”. My husband and I started watching it last night on your recommendation, and we both think it is a hoot. Thank you for mentioning it. We are always looking for a new British series. Have you seen “ Derry Girls”? It also is very funny. It is about a group of five high school girls set in Londonderry Ireland. We love it. I suggest you watch it with closed captions, though, because you can’t understand a word they say!
We pretty much watch all the Brit Irish things like that! 😂
HI, SUSAN,
THE MUG WITH RED HEARTS ALL OVER AND RED ON THE BOTTOM WOULD BE MY CHOICE. AS IT REMINDED YOU, IT ALSO REMINDS ME OF YOUR LONG AGO MUG WITH RED HEARTS AROUND THE TOP. WAS THAT A MARIMEKKO?
FEBRUARY LOVE,
ETHEL
Yes! I have watched Detectorists and liked it so much that I purchased it off Amazon. Loved the simplicity of their lives and the beautiful countryside. Also, your library might have it on DVD . . . that is where I originally discovered it. I love libraries too but that is another story! It is so fun to watch or read something to distract us from our troubled world.
Best wishes from Minnesota, friends!
Susan, thank you for sharing that very heartwarming story. It touches me deeply. I am so happy for Doreen and Gregory and I know that you are happy that because of you and your blog and community here that it was the start of it all being able to happen! Miracles happen! ~~Jane~~
What a wonderful hour I just spent, reading this month’s blog! Warms my heart. Thank-you so much.
I enjoy your posts so much and this one was of course a very special one. I am a caregiver in Florida. I always read your posts to the lady I sit with. She loves all the stories and photos of your adventures. Thank you for a wonderful blog. Happy Valentine’s Day!🌹
Thank you, dear Susan, for the suggestion to get a Kleenex! Such a beautiful, heartening story…bolstering our sense of hope. I also love your remark, “It isn’t cynicism that will change the world.” I’ll carry that one with me today and everyday! Happy February!
I’m very late to this wonderful blog post. Came over from FB. I love everything Valentine like and you sure have it covered. Thanks for a great start to my morning
Thanks for the reminder that Love is everywhere. If we can look up from what is bringing us down we will see it.
I just love your emails..they make me feel happy inside & I feel like I am right there with you. Ohhh to have your talents. Thank you for sharing it with all of us!
Such a sweet story of how lives are intertwined without any agenda other than friendship! We all need more of that in our lives. Thank you for sharing their story with us, just touching. 🙂
Oh my what a wonderful sad sweet post! Frankly I was so afraid you were going to tell us that you had lost Jack! I was almost afraid to read all the way through it! Thank you for your blog.
Ohhh, I’m sorry! If that happened, I probably wouldn’t tell you for at least 6 months, because it would take me that long to process it and be able to say it out loud! xoxoxo
Wonderful post as always. Love to find you in my inbox. Makes me smile.
What a lovely story you shared today. And thank you for focusing on the lovely things in life.
Your posts are always beautiful and uplifting.
What a sweet, sweet love story! Thank you for sharing it with us.
Valentine’s Day has always been more about friendship rather than romance for me. It’s fun to send sweet valentines to dear friends and family rather than set up unrealistic expectations of romance to be carried out by one particular person. 🙂 That’s what we all need to give each other — a little sweetness.
Happy February!
I love the “hallmark” story of Greg & Doreen. I can not tell you how much I look forward to your blog posts. I lost my 33 year old son 6 years ago to a brain tumor. From the time he was diagnosed to his passing (almost 3 years) I was desperate to communicate with anyone who had gone through similar experiences. Just to find out if how I was dealing with doctors, treatments, family, friends, and especially my son was normal. Losing a child is like becoming a member of a club that you did not want to belong to. This quote came to me right after he passed…..“I just sat there, I just held Shelby’s hand. There was no noise, no tremble, just peace. Oh god, I realize as a woman how lucky I am. I was there when that wonderful creature drifted into my life and I was there when she drifted out. It was the most precious moment of my life.” M’Lynn, ‘Steel Magnolias’.
😪 It’s cheating to use an emoji, but words fail me, reading these BEAUTIFUL words. Stopping for a moment to just cry.
Such a warm and snugglie post. I love February as my birthday is on the 12th. Same as Abraham Lincoln. This year I am adding my wedding date to as Alan and I will get married on 02/20/2020! Great day for a wedding at 5 pm in Las Vegas…. Love is in the air!
DEE-lightful! Joe and I married on his birthday, makes it even MORE special! Happy wedding!
I’m too late, I fear. So I’ll leave you this little poem that came to me some years ago.
I wonder…
I wonder where the fairies go
When all the world is white with snow.
Could they be snug inside a nest
Warm beside the house wren’s breast?
Or are they hiding with the moles
Far deep inside their secret holes.
Maybe they’re snuggled in the hay
Watching the barn cats at their play.
I hope they’re wearing woolly long johns
With something warm to feast upon.
I’m sure they’re waiting, just as we,
For Spring’s arrival to set them free!
R.S.Hower 1/30/05
squeal! love it Ruth! They’re waiting, just as we, for Springs arrival to set them free!!!
I love coming to your blog for a dose of Susan Branch stories. I will check out the series “The Detectorists”. You are a delight!
SUSAN!
Once again I shed a little tear while reading your blog. 🙂 What an amazing story of friendship and love…..
Thank you for your wonderful posts and luvlee paintings, so wonderfully fantabulous and calming.
Would love to have the cups, one for me, one for my mum!
HUGS!
Love,
Linda from PA
Thank you for this absolutely lovely post. Your blog and books have brought so much joy and happiness into my life. My daughter and I had the chance to meet you and Joe in Salt Lake City a few years ago and I was impressed with how gracious and kind you both were to us.Thank you Susan! 🙂
I love your books, recipes and blog. I shared my excitement about your writings with my daughter. Now another next generation “girl” is enjoying your stories and inspiration! She just purchased the ingredients to make your carrot muffins for her family. I hope it’s the beginning of making many of your recipes. I always get rave reviews when I cook one of your dishes.
Makes my DAY to hear this Madeleine! 👏 Thank you!
Hi, dear Susan!
Those old fashioned valentines on your window sill are my favorite!
When do you expect the new book to be complete? I can hardly wait!!
Wow, talk about a wonderful love story just in time for Valentine’s Day, am having 3 couples over for a Valentine dinner and will be making your Punxsutawney Pudding, can’t wait to see their reactions to the name. Also am printing out the book markers for the ladies. Thank you Susan for making a dreay day bright!
You are love!
Thank you so much for the story of Doreen and Greg……..I know Karen had a hand in that one!!
The cups are beautiful 🙂
What a beautiful story! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Susan for creating my favorite blog EVER!!!
I always leave your blog feeling like a new person. Thank you for the positive words and outlook and for gifting them to the rest of us. Blessings!
The chickens, sorry, hens on the cups! So cute. I do, I do, I do….would love to have a cuppa with the hens!
Wah…the darling SECRET NOTES are sold out…will you have more soon, I hope?
Yes we will! Soon!
Dear Susan, such a beautiful Love Story.
Not sure how to start. It took courage to write to you since I don’t want to intrude.
I first “met” you in December 2000 when I bought my 2001 calendar.
I was walking the hall at our then bright and shiny and now desert-like Shopping Mall in Burlington NC, my family (husband and two little kids) were just arrived in the States from Argentina, and then I saw your calendar and it spoke to my heart at first sight.
My English, while good was not in its best shape, lack of practice, was the issue, but I felt I was making a friend.
Back on those years when it was so painful being so far away from family and friends in Argentina I was looking forward to your Willards like a kid when they wait for their grandpa with candies in his pockets. They brought warmth to my heart and made my days brighter as you can not imagine. So whenever I received an email saying “It’s a Willard!” my heart jumped of joy! I’m so happy that I can find you again and again through your blog, your books (I have all of them) and your beautiful Instagram account. I got to meet Joe, make lots of friends here, go with you into the English Countryside and of course get to know Jack and Girl!
I have my own “Joe”, Fabián, who just like yours, uses a beret, loves to cook and cooks most of our meals, carries my bags, always attentive for what I may need, so caring and thoughtful. We are lucky ladies!
Thank you dear friend, for open up your life to us and made us feel we are like family. Today is a gray but beautiful fall day in NC, we are in our process to move to Virginia but first Fabián got us a birthday gift to Proctor Mansion in Massachusetts, where the movie The Spirit of Christmas was shoot, yes, we are that cheesy!
Lots of love to you and Joe and everybody around you!
Happy Valentines’s and thank you for being my friend of almost 20 years!
Awww, darling girl, so brave to travel so far. I’m glad my calendar and Willard opened their arms to you. Kindred spirit language is universal! Yes, your Fabián sounds so much like Joe … we are very lucky! Thank you so much for writing, love hearing from you. And “Cheesy” gets you to some very fun places! xoxoxoxo
Hello Susan. I may be brand new in posting on this blog but have followed you for many years. I love what you do. I love your lifestyle. I so look forward to reading your blogs & pictures. They take me to another time and place, especially when I am feeling a bit lonely. You a such a lovely gift of treasure to all of us! Muah!!
Welcome Karen!
What a beautiful story from Doreen! Love ALWAYS find a way! I get so excited when I see you name pop up in my email – and I always clear out any other email first, so I can take my time and read your blog email at leisure! Usually I will click on the musica links and listen while reading, if I’m on my computer; if I’m on my tablet, it just doesn’t have the same effect, but I can always take my tablet outside to the back patio and drink my tea and watch the snow fall… The musica changes, somehow, out there!
Speaking of tea, I would love the opportunity to hold one of your gorgeous mugs with a piping hot cuppa!! I can always used another mug, although my hubby would disagree (and my kitchen cabinets, as well!!)!!! They are beautiful. Your mugs, not necessarily my kitchen cabinets!!
Thank you again for making a snowy Saturday stuck inside – too cold for tea on the patio today – another wonderful experience with you!
Shannon
Such a lovely post. I am always ready for a good love story. It definitely made me stop and think. I watch a lot of British TV shows, so will take a look at “The Dectorist”. Bad part is that I binge watch them, so they go by too fast. Gorgeous cups (again). I have three of your other designs. My favorite is English Countryside. Anxiously waiting for your next book. Thanks so much for the wonderful blog. It makes me smile. —-Rebecca
I am new to Susan’s blog thanks to my dearest friend, Deb. A shout out to her and to all women who have experienced the loss of a beloved spouse.
Today is a gray weather day in Indiana but as usual, I’m uplifted by your blog
Susan. Each month it is a reminder of the LITTLE things that are important in life. As I read, I’m thankful this morning for my morning coffee, this season of rest, time today to begin reading a new book. As I look around the house, I view framed photos of my grandkids, infants to teens. I smile and murmur a quick prayer for each of them. As I view your art work, the poems, quotations and thoughts you share, I’m reminded that each day I too, have an opportunity to influence the lives of others for the better. God Bless You Girlfriend.
I check periodically for your blog and am always so tickled when I see a new one. My mother mentioned it to me, some years ago and I just love your artwork and sharing such positive energy.
Thank you, Susan.
If I win the cups, Mum gets the 2nd one 🙂 You’re awesome.
Kristen
Columbus, OH
What a sweet story. I guess you need to add matchmaker to your many skills, Susan! Haha!
Congratulations to Doreen and Greg. May your marriage bring much joy and happiness.
Love is in the air,
Sher
Thank you for a lovely post. It is so nice to celebrate love an friendship.
Thank-you! ❤️ Thank-you for making my day even more lovely.
I have to find these tv shows! Such a lovely love story…Thanks for brightening my day! You always do. Your mugs are delicious! I am pulling out my Valentines decorations today.
Thank You Susan for the lovely story.
Thank-you! ❤️ Thank-you for making my day all the more lovely. Thank-you for sharing your thoughts, talents and gifts with us,
I love those cups! I hope I win. 🙂
Always look forward to your posts! The love story of Doreen & Greg was so touching; it reminds me that “Sometimes the heart sees what is invisible to the eye” – h.jackson brown jr.
Happy Valentines Day to you and Joe!
Sending love and warm thoughts
Anita from Arizona (retired Occupational Therapist)
PS. How is your wrist?
Love that quote. Wrist is waaaay better! Thank you! I keep stretching it!
Hi Susan!
What a beautiful love story! I believe in miracles and magic and I think that love story was a little bit of both. I am definitely going to check out that show The Detectorists. We all need some comedy and laughter in our lives. I’ve been busy taking care of my grandson. He spends three days a week with my husband and me. He’s a handful, but a beautiful perfect handful. Glad you and Joe are feeling better. Hope we really are in for an early spring!
Have a fantastic day!
Terry
I always enjoy your posts but never written before. We have watched all The Detectorists
Series from England have enjoyed them all. Have you watched any of the Doc. Martin series? They are great also. I also have watched Mum and enjoyed that also. As you can see really
Enjoy British series. Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe from Joyce in Hamilton, Ontario Canada. 💕
Your blog always brightens my day! I consider it very important self-care to read it over and over. Thank you for sharing your sunshine, Susan. <3
With Gratitude,
Jodi
Wow, thank you for sharing that tear jerking story with us, Susan. I’m so happy for them. I’m looking forward to getting tickets to your May event. That sounds like a great time. Thank you for another great post. Have a great day and Happy anniversary to you and Joe (tomorrow).
What a beautiful love story! And I have been thinking of a heart waffle iron, so your share on that is perfect.
xo Pat
Happy Tuesaday, Ms Susan!
Susan,
Thanks for being a girlfriend to all of us.Your stories, cookbooks, calendars etc. have been a part of my life forever and so heartwarming. And thank you for the TV recommendation, I loved watching the Durrells of Corfu on PBS. Patricia
I did need Kleenex. What a lovely friendship story, and just when it was needed. Thank you.
So nice to hear from you, Susan! I received your book A Fine Romance, Falling in Love with the English Countryside, as a Christmas gift from my daughter and husband in honor of our trip to England last May. (***OMG***) It was so amazing to read your daily reflections and I can truly say I kept hearing myself in your words. I wanted more, more, more so I found your website and blog. And also your English calendar is hanging on my wall to look at every day! Between my Britain magazines, Susan Hill books, guidebooks,and of course YOUR book, I’m plotting my return some day in the not too distant future.
Then I saw that you are from Martha’s Vineyard! It IS a magic place where I used to spend a lot of time in my 20’s with friends..holds a lot of great memories and a very magical draw to it. The book on my nighttable right before I received your book was “Cats of Martha’s Vineyard”. How’s that for serendipity??? Kind of brings it all in!
Well, thank you for the love you send out and the civility with which you do it. I’m looking forward to keeping in touch! Cheers, Robin
You might like my book Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams! Sounds like your cup of tea! Nice to hear from you Robin!
Wow – this post brought me such joy! Love the vintage valentines…could there be anything sweeter? Well, maybe the pics of Jack…! Thanks for the warm fuzzies!
Thank you for the lovely letter from Doreen. My niece is scheduled for an operation tomorrow to remove cancer called, and this letter came at such a great time. It is always a pleasure to read your blog. Love to all of you
What a sweet story!! Thank you for sharing it with us all! Wishing you and hubby the Happiest of Valentines Days!!
A beautiful movie in my heart, since I can’t find many in theaters I produce my own.
I refer of course to the glorious true life love story.
Bless them!!!!
Your blog always brightens my day. Just read it during my lunch break at work. What fun it would be to be in Duxbury, Massachusetts, for one of your events! Hopefully I will be able to retire at the end of this year and will be able to do traveling anytime I want!!! I visited your area several years ago on a Collette trip with a group from Alabama, and it was an amazing trip. Would love to come back again. I hope you and Joe have a very romantic Valentine’s Day!
A tiny number! LOL! Would love to give one of these to my mom to add to the one she has. She got married last year after grieving my dad for 8 years (they celebrated their 50th the month before he died). Last year, she met someone new and they married! This would be a cup for HIM! Thanks Susan!
Ah, what a breath of fresh air…thank you for everything you do, Susan — even this font!
Thank you for writing such a wonderful blog! I’m going to check out the detectorists sounds like a great series!
What a wonder blog post. I wish that I did not live clear across the states in California so that I could come to your Mother’s Day Tea. It sounds wonderful and i’m sure that y’all will have a great time. Thank you for all you and Joe do for our wonderful community of girlfriends.
Love this story and your blog. Thank you!
Oh, Doreen’s story brought happy tears to my eyes. My husband and I are finishing up “Grace and Frankie”. There’s a little blue language, but they confront issues that will surely pop up as we all age. And it’s so funny and warm.
Happy Valentine’s Day Susan & Joe ❣️
I’m so touched by the Doreen, Greg, Karen and Richard story! So beautiful. So true that we never know what surprises life has in store for us. We just need to be open to receive them. Thanks so much for sharing their stories. Now excuse me while I wipe away the tears.
My gosh. Just what this heart of mine needed today – a happy love story! I wish I could go to the special tea in Massachusetts, but I’m afraid I’m a little too far away over here in the mountains of Colorado.
It would be quite a long haul!!!
Thank you Susan for another wonderful post and especially for sharing that lovely story! At 66 life continues to amaze me – how little things can become big things! Happy to know that Phil did not see his shadow and we can welcome Spring a little earlier this year.
Thank you for all you do and the community that surrounds you and like minded girlfriends!
Lynda
Love everything Susan Branch. Sure hope I win the cups!
Lucinda