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! ❌⭕️
Susan- Your blog always brightens my day! Thank you!
So thankful for your happiness-filled blog. And lovely art. Your tea cups will be perfect for our nightly after-supper cuppa’
Lovely love story
You are a blessing Susan. Thanks for all you do!
Carol D.
Happy St. Valentine’s Day to Susan +Joe+Jack
Have a beautiful celebration!! Cheers from girlfriend Peggy in Madison Wi
Hi, Sue~
That sweet, “isn’t life amazing” love story – Thank you for sharing ❤️ More and more I’m made aware of the ripples our words and our actions create. Sometimes we never know how something we said or did affected someone else, even someone we never met. A legacy of kindness, gratitude, hopefulness, faithfulness and inspiration- that’s what you’re creating with this wonderful blog, Sue. The ripples are creating an ever-growing circle of love and support and sisterhood.
What a brilliant idea you had 👏🏻❤️🙏😘
I’m writing from a sunny townhouse on the beach in Florida! Talk about gratitude! My very first trip to Florida and I’m with my 3 sisters. It took awhile for for my husband and family to convince me to take this trip away but I am having a wonderful time! I don’t think I’ve laughed as hard as I have this past week 😂. Priceless memories and wonderful conversation. And YOUR name mentioned several times 🥰
Happy February- back to the pretty white snowflakes tomorrow.
Debbie xoxo
Such a sweet post! A reminder to love one another, no matter the differences. Life is indeed a treasure!
I would live to win one of your cups! Thank you for your blog.💕💕
I sure needed your blog today! THANK YOU!!
What a sweet, sweet story. I have tears and goosebumps!
OMG! Doreen and I are friends on facebook! She has actually called me once on the phone too. When I was reading the story, I kept thinking it sounded familiar. LOL. I am so happy that she found love again. She is a sweetheart.
With that being said, you have brought me together with my penpals. I have one in Spain, England, FL, WA, and WV. ALL because of your blog!! It’s so wonderful to make new girlfriends.
👏👏👏
Love your website and drawings! I aspire to do art like you .. full of whimsy, love, cuteness and pure artistic skill ❤️.
Your blog always brings a smile to my day………
Another beautiful blog entry!
I love those cups. Thank you for your heartwarming newsletters, I enjoy them so much.
Thank you Susan, love is all we need. ❤️
I love this blog!! You are so uplifting and something special in your heart to share. Thank you for sharing❤️
I would love the cups. I have switched from coffee to tea. Feel much better and love the refreshing taste.
Thank you for sharing such a special love story. Your blog really brightened my day. There were so many loving thoughts. Happy, happy Valentine’s Day
What a beautiful story. Thanks for writing such an uplifting blog for all to read. Fingers crossed for the win!
Today is our 37th wedding anniversary. Every day of every year my husband has asked me, “Have I told you lately that I love you?” I love the sweet and special post!
What a great happy twist to such a story of loss. I’m so glad that Doreen and Gregory have a second chance at love! Thank you for sharing😊
If you need a place to send one of your cups my mailbox is always available!
What a wonderful Posting for this snowless February in Holland, Michigan.
Reminders of all that makes us “girlfriends” Kindred Spirits. I re-newed our Royal Oak Foundation membership today because my husband and I are off to London in April. His first visit to the UK and alas, no picnic his year, I treasure the memories of that very special trip with friends. The cups are beautiful and I use mine all the time for cocoa!
Have a wonderful time Lindy . . .
Such a great blog, post! Now you have added matchmaker to your list of occupations!!! Your blog always makes me smile!
PLEASE PICK ME! I LOVE YOUR BLOG AND YOUR BOOKS AND I STILL HAVE STICKERS FROM THE 90’S. LOVE IT ALL. SHELLEY
Your blog makes me feel cozy and warm!
22 years ago, a friend shared her lovely Susan Branch baby book with me. Then her favorite cookbook recipes – all yours. I became a fan. My favorite gift to give my besties is “Girlfriends Forever” with added personal photos.
It would be lovely to say “Cheers!” to you at teatime with your lovely mugs.
Blessings & Love,
Claudette
Loved the blog, the drawings – especially of Jack…he resembles my EmmeLu (black with a bit of white and emerald green eyes.) Thanks for sharing your life and insights…makes me smile and want to put the kettle on and read some more. I printed out two bookmarks for two special friends and hope they enjoy them as much as I do! Thanks much!!!!
Happy February!! 🙂
Loved reading your blog!! February is one of my favorite months because I got
engaged on Valentine’s Day!
Have a blessed day!!
Darling, Dear Susan!
Thank you so much for the blog post. I really needed this today! I do not know why, but I’ve been a bit blue. This year, I purchased the English Countryside calendar rather than the traditional Susan Branch calendar. I love them equally!!! I wish so much that I wasn’t so far away… I’m in California. I would LOVE to come to MA for the book signing in May!!! Always wanted to explore Boston. And oh, how I would love to get my paws on Chapter 1!!!
I adore the community of hearts on this blog. Thank you for sharing your life and giving a platform for hearts to unite.
Love you!
Debby
p.s. love the cups…. vanna, please pick me!!!
I hope the blues have gone far far away! xoxoxo
Hi Susan, Once again, thanks for your lovely blog; so needed during these depressing days. So glad you found that little gem of a series, “The Detectorists”! I found it last year on Amazon Prime and absolutely loved it. It is 3 seasons that get better and better the longer you watch. So wish they would add more to the series. It’s brilliant and funny and so very subtle. I’m not British but a total Anglophile. Love Dame Diana Rigg and her daughter (the wife).
Also read (and sometimes respond to) your twitter feed. We are truly on the same wave length.
Regards,
Linda L.
Hi Linda!👋😘
Always love reading the blog! Brings a smile and sometimes a tear to my eyes! Thank you.
Susan…you never cease to amaze me! I read every word of your newsletter but can’t seem to get enough. Thank you for sharing your love of the simple things in life. By the way, I am enjoying my wall calendar immensely!!
Our first day of sun in three weeks, sipping green tea, and reading your blog made for a perfect day. Thank you for recipes and wonderful stories.
Such a great love story! Thanks
What a beautiful story. It brought a smile to my face – thank you so much for sharing it with all your fans.
Love your posts and love Valentine’s Day! Thanks for spreading the love!
Dear Susan… I am still drying my eyes from reading this beautiful heartwarming post… thank you for sharing… I know I will read it again and again… you are such an inspiration!… so sorry you were sick so long… I’ve had the same yucky “bug” since Christmas and just now getting better, so your post was a breath of fresh air for me!… looking forward to Valentines and Spring… and would so love a chance to win those beautiful mugs… sending love to you, Joe and Jack, xoxo Julie Marie
I love your blog and the stories you tell. Today it topped all!! What wonderful stories I’ve read in your blog and today it was really something! Thank you!
What a beautiful post❤️
What a LOVEly newsletter, including the love story that originated here. I was born in Cumbria not far from the Lake District, but now reside in Canada. I have a Wildwood Fairy Garden where a baby rabbit was found snuggled in a little space beneath an evergreen tree right in the midst of the magic. Thank you for the opportunity to win one of your delightful cups 🙂 <3
I love The Detectorists! Sad I’ve seen all the episodes. I love your mugs too!
Your blog is such an inspiration!! ❤️
Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe, and of course sweet Jack!
Thank you for your sanity in this crazy world!! Reading your blog always puts me in a better mood and helps relieve stress. It’s also comforting to read the comments with all the “girlfriends” who love the same things.
Stay well and enjoy a lovely February!
Love the waffles! Where did you get the waffle iron? Happy Valentine’s Day!
Oooooooh. Pick me. I’d love to sip tea and eat short bread cookies with my bestie.
I waited a few days to open this blog, and like a special little bonbon, it was a treat worth the wait. Thank you for the lovely story, valentines, and February cheer. It is my favorite month: the birthday of my wonderful dad, my anniversary and birthday, Valentine’s Day, and the start of longer days.
Thanks for always making my day with your old fashioned ways❣️
I loved the Karen story! We live in such a small world anymore.
And I love your cups! I had two but broke one. 😭.
Hi, Susan. Love your blog and you. Your little bit about your cat and you reminded me of what my sister always says,, that when she dies, she wants to come back as one of my very well-loved (read: spoiled) cats. Thanks for your blog and much love to you and yours. Candi p.s. I follow you on Twitter and I enjoy your tweets, too.
I actually built a white picket fence around my rose garden after reading your book. I smiled every time I looked out the kitchen window.
We sold our house and have moved to where I have help now that my husband requires more assistance than I can provide. Amazing how my need for solitude has become less now that there are more interruptions in our day. God knows what I need and will provide it if I will just let him. The young people, meals served, laundry done, new friends did not seem to be what I wanted. Wrong!
Your entries sustain me on days when I look for a smile in my heart. Thank you.
Susan, Opening your newsletter brings such a spark of sunshine on a dreary day such as today. Your creations are always bright, cheery and uplifting! Thanks for making a difference in your reader’s days!!
Oh wouldn’t tea in these mugs be delightful!
Susan,
What a lovely story. I had a similar story of friends meeting and then getting married. I knew them in different parts of my life, one was preschool and the other a summer place. At least this couldle was in the same state. I hope you let us know where Doreen and Greg will end up living. Actually, the best thing is for Greg it “winter” in Florida and Doreen in Wisconsin in the summer. Having lived in Wisconsin, it is a beautiful state.
Thanks, Mary Ann
Happy February. My husband Greg and I met you at Apple Farm last October. I cherish that memory so very much. This story resonated with me! Thank you for being a kindred spirit. ❤️🌹 Love Karen
😘
Loved the story!
The design on the cups would really cheer a grey winter day!
I made the Apple Cider donuts from your recipe. We Loved them!!
It feels like a healthy treat since they weren’t fried!
Yum!!
And
Painting watercolors can make any day better!
LOL, me too, health food!🤣
I just love your blog and so happy to have found it. It was a magical event of how I got here, but seeing those mugs is like the extra sparkle to the whole story. My best friend had surprised me this week with one of your books, another friend shared a post of yours on FB, and the mug that says…Did I tell you I love you…. is what my best friend always says to me when we are out and being silly together. I look forward to reading more of your blog, it truly brings joy.
Wonderful post! Thank you for it all! Sharing with a friend who needs “cheerfulness” in her life right now. Would love to win a mug to give her. Happy February to you ♥️
The prettiest mugs💓
Blessings to you, Joe and Jack. Wishing many years of happiness to Doreen and Greg.
Leap year looks delightful! Thank you!
Up late again watching the lake effect snow come down. I like to check in on your blog at such times. In passing I just noticed someone mentioned your picture of canned brown bread! When I saw your post, it reminded me of when I went to the village store, and the clerk I asked to find it said she never heard of canned bread. A nearby [older] customer said she knew right where they were hidden! I like the one with raisins. Seems like a good thing for Valentines Day!
Just discovered your books…I can’t put them down. I Want to bake the Carrot Cake Cupcakes!
Adding to my bucket list…Martha’s Vineyard and all of England!! Thanks for being here for us.
I would so love to have one of your cups. I love tea and I love your blog!
Thank you for this timely blog. I was encouraged by Doreen’s love story. Recently one of my dearest friends underwent cancer surgery and we feared losing her, but our prayers were answered and she made it; and it appears the doctors got all the cancer. So your nudge to love our friends with Valentines cards is perfect. I’m even thinking of having a tea party in honor of Galentine’s Day — have you heard of that? It’s all about getting the girlfriends together in advance of that other Day, celebrating our relationships. Happy Gal-entine’s and Valentine’s Day to you!
As February is my birth month, I love all things “hearty”! Thank you for the free bookmark download! I can not wait to laminate it and tuck it into my next read!! Happy Valentine’s Day, friend!!
Susan, I was so pleased to get your recommendation for “the Detectorists”!
I subscribe to Acorn and Britbox because I love the charming, quirky, funny kind of shows the Brits are so good at doing. So here’s the thing; I am sure that this one would be all those things if I could get past the multiple uses, in the first three minutes or so, of the words “fuck”, “shit”, “Christ”, “dick”, “prick”, and, a new one for me, the expression “sad tits”. Now, I know about those words, and I’m not exactly shocked by them, but I am just so tired of them becoming such an accepted part of normal conversation. I was especially surprised that you made no mention of it, Susan, after reading on your twitter account just days ago that “ANOTHER reason I don’t like Trump?
Because he’s made it OKAY for CREATURES like Lindsey Graham to come on t.v. when we’re not paying attention & SWEAR at us and say 🐂💩. I don’t FEEL like hearing it, esp. from his mouth, but now because of you, Mr. President, I do.” So, if 🐂💩 was so offensive to you, I cannot imagine why you would put out such a glowing review of a show with all of the words listed above without any kind of mention. I have grandkids who live next door and are here all the time. I don’t want to get a call from my daughter in law asking if I know why one of them told his teacher not to be such a sad tits and that he heard it at grandma’s house. I trust your judgement. A heads up would have been appreciated.
Sorry, it’s a changing world. I think Dectectorists was so soft and sweet, no violence, no anger, no bullying, no one putting anything over on someone, just nicely normal interaction. The difference between this show and what I wrote about, is that I CHOSE to watch this show. What shocks me is when the news is on, one of our Senators is being interviewed, or I’m watching the President speak, people we are supposed to look up to, people you think will set an example, and suddenly I’m accosted unexpectedly by one of those words, coming from the Capitol or even from inside the White House. It’s something new, and I’m shocked every time I hear it. In fact it’s a little shocking reading those words here!😂 I’m so sorry, because I would hate little kids to hear that kind of talk. It’s good you watched first!
Hi Susan, Thank you for your thoughtful reply. Believe me, I was a little shocked that my comment CONTAINED those words!🤤
Yes, it is a changing world, but I will continue to be saddened that these words have become an accepted part of normal, everyday conversation. I understand choosing to watch when a show is so good the language can be overlooked. I just remember a time when good stories were told without dialogue that depended on a barrage of lazy, ugly words. While many things in a changing world are good, even fun to get on board with, this, in my opinion, has gone in the wrong direction. When my siblings and I would get lazy with our speech, my Aunt Florence, a librarian and Latin professor with a profound love of books and words, would tell us, “You speak a rich and beautiful language. Learn to dig deep and use it well.” Thanks.again, Susan. Give Jack a kiss for me.♡
Oh, thank YOU Lauren, for YOUR thoughtful reply. It seems every aging generation complains quite rightly about the coarsening of society … I remember reading how much offense Mark Twain took against it as he was getting older, and I feel the exact same way. The only person I have charge over is me, so I myself, don’t do it. I can’t imagine giving a talk using words like that in public, or going to social media and calling people names. Your Aunt Florence was so right (my grandma was Florence too!). And as these words become more and more commonplace, where will the new expletives come from? They’re using them all up, taking all their shock value away. Poor things. So mundane. But every single change we would like to see starts and ends with only one person (and the children we raise), and that’s us. When I was little I must have brought home a word my mom didn’t like, because she told me I didn’t have to use the same old words everyone else did ~ I could make up my own words! VERY empowering. And so my first swear word was Goose-Goss. And my biggest swear word was Farmer! Buck stops here. Happy to give Jack that kiss, we already had our first huggy-wuggy of the day! xoxo
Susan, my girlfriend! What the farmer! I get in after an exhausting day (week) at work and take a peek at your always uplifting and calming blog and what do I find? The gift of a charming and (again) thoughtful response to my last comment. Your Mark Twain reference reminded me of hearing Michael Landon read a letter on the Johnnie Carson show, written by someone who was lamenting the terrible state of society these days. After a long, sad, discouraging list, (during which time my sweet dad was nodding “I told you so.” to my mom), Michael ended the reading by revealing that the letter had been written nearly 100 years before. So there you go, Susan. My dad grumbled just as I do now, and my son and my grands will one day grumble that the world is going to farmer in a handbasket!😊 That we only have charge over ourselves is such a happy truth, and that like Aunt Florence, ( I remember how tickled I was when I read in one of your books that your grandma was Florence; that we each had a beloved person with that lovely old-fashioned name.) and so like Aunt Florence, our parents and ourselves, there will be many who will pass good things down to each generation. I hope I’ve made sense. I’m sleep deprived and need to get the Goose-Goss to bed! Thank you, Susan. A kiss for Jack♡
LOL! I like your lingo!
So enjoy reading your always joyful and bright blogs! 💕
Always so exciting to see a new post. I feel like a warmly welcomed guest in your life.
You always bring me so much joy with your fun, warm personality and beautiful artwork. Your blog is a treasure!
Hi, Susan!
What a beautiful post filled with lots of love.
Just what the world needs!
Thanks for the “lovely” post.
Donna
Oh happy day! Love your mugs! Thank you Susan
I always feel so happy…sheer delight…after I read one of your posts. I love how you seem to reach out to us all. Enjoy your day! 😉
What a sweet love story!
I am try and dream…
Miriam from Italy
I always save your blog to read until I have a quiet time to enjoy it and be inspired. Thanks, Susan, for being such a positive presence in so many people’s lives.
Happy February! Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day!
I always look forward to your posts and always save them to read when I can make a cup of tea and settle in. Thanks again for brightening my day!
What a beautiful story of friends among us. Thank you Susan for all the love you share.
Peggy
I loved this : ) Thank you.
I have been looking for you for years now. I am so happy to have finally found you!!!! I am so excited to start buying your books. Happy, Happy Valentine’s Day…❤❤❤
Once again,Susan,a great blog. My best fried is Nancy. She is wonderful. If I were to win the mugs ,Nancy could choose the one she’d like and I would have to other. We could raise our cups to friendship! Hi 💗🍮
What a lovely blog you share with all of us! I so enjoyed reading Doreen’s letter. Thank you for sharing it with us.
It’s been a rough week, but your blog is definitely a “Cheer up”! What a beautiful poignant story, along with lots of treats from you. Happy Valentines Day! Love will prevail….totally certain of that. Be well. c
I would love this pair of mugs! I am getting ready to move in with my boyfriend and having a cute pair of matching love mugs would be darling for during our breakfasts!!
Thank you so much for your blog! I broke my ankle on December 13th and had to have surgery, so not allowed to put any weight on it for 6 weeks! My husband has been a blessing and so helpful.
Happy Valentine’s month!
Longest 6 weeks! I had two months of a broken wrist last year, I do NOT have the patience for broken bones! If it weren’t for Joe, it would have been about a thousand times worse, he did everything. Hope you knit back faster than you ever imagined!
Wow! As always, this Blog post is full of beauty and encouragement! Thank you for being thoughtful, unselfish you, Susan! The flowers Joe picked out are a compelling combination of flowers and so wonderfully arranged. Go, Joe! Thank you for the lovely bookmark and for sharing both calendar pages for February. I decided to use the English Countryside (which I am enjoying) for 2020, so it was a treat to also see the other calendar!
The story Doreen shared was heart stirring/warming and a fairytale itself! Thanks to Doreen and you for sharing that with us.
I would be at your book signings (probably both of them) in a flash if they were not across the nation from me! My dream is for you to be at an event somewhere close to where I live! Go, West, Young Woman, go West! 🙂
Hugs and a Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Joe and all of us girlfriends!
West, like where?
Thanks for the ray of sunshine on this cold and gloomy Colorado day. Your enthusiasm is catching and I feel so much better having read your blog today xoxox.
I look forward to new posts from you, Susan! Ive been a fan of yours since my Aunt introduced me to your art years ago. Youre inspiring in a way not many people are gifted with. Thank you for this website…it brightens my day! 💕
Your blog posts are like cozy little pillows on a rainy day. I can just sink right in. Especially enjoyed Doreen’s story! You just never know what might happen!
Love that!! Cozy Little Pillows.
Hello Susan, thank you for this blog! February can be dreary on the outside, but so warm and loving on the inside! I’m off to make comfort food and watch The Detectorists! Have a wonderful day! xx
I get so excited when I see your blogs in my inbox! Love the artwork. And I love the descriptions in New England
Thank you for all you do to make our lives more enriched. LOVE your blog.. especially loved reading about Duxbury event. I am a direct descendant of two of the Mayflower passengers so LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that area with it’s rich history.
Don’t stop doing what you are doing.. you are a joy and delight for so many. ♥️
Dear Susan and Joe,
I know you will celebrate. We are celebrating for you! Here’s to Second Chances for Happiness. Waiting to see where you went, if you went out, and maybe a picture or two.
May the love you have be a balm for the pain we feel for our country…..You do give so very much love. Especially appreciated in these times that Try Men and Women’s Souls.
Mucho Love, from
Debbie in Tampa
Susan, I especially love February 29th. My oldest grandson was born on that date. Most years we celebrate on March 1. It’s always a pleasure when he has a “real birthday “
Thank you for another great post. The love story was enduring ❤️
Oh Yes!
“cream poured from a flowered pitcher”got me started thinking of
pots of primroses lined up on the windowsill
smiling their sunshine into the room.
the smell of cookies baking early in the morning.
gathering vegetables from the frig’ for vegetable soup
appreciating how beautiful and fragrant they are as I slice and chop.
the smell of roasting onions and beef.
weeding the herb garden…that prodigal mint!
listening to my mixer kneading semolina bread dough.
Thank you girlfriends!
Susan, with all my heart, Happy Valentine’s Day!
Sweet blog entry and perfect for February. Thanks!
I FINALLY bought your three books, “A Fairy Tale Girl”, “Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams” and “A Fine Romance” and received them in the mail – I LOVE them!! Absolutely gorgeous, Susan. Thank you so much for sharing your story, your time, your art and your heart. <3
I would be so happy to receive your “Valentine ” cups in the mail. When you write you make the ordinary so extra ordinary that I think my life could be just like yours!! Sparkle, Fun, Exciting………
I have never loved a blog more until I discovered yours, reading it is like talking to my mom – a big hug and lots of giggles. Thank you for being unapologetically you and bringing warmth and love into the world!
Oh I do secretly apologize! 😂 xoxo
I follow you on Twitter and have never disagreed with any of your tweets! And when you’ve responded to one of my comments, I’m over the moon.
😘😘😘
What a lovingly crafted post. Gorgeous as always!