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! ❌⭕️
Hello Susan! Thank you so much for sharing such a heartwarming story of friendship and love! The very definition of silver linings! I’ve just finished my annual January reading of Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams and enjoyed being in your world so very much that I’m now rereading A Fine Romance! I’ll get to the stack of new books on my nightstand eventually 😉
Dear Susan and Girlfriends,
Eight, yes eight Kleenex and my eyes are still a bit drippy. I love reading your lifelines – and that is exactly what they are to me. When I’m down, or lonely, or cold, or hot, or scared, or needing a hug, you toss me the lifeline of connection and comfort and kindness and love. Words matter. You matter. Sharing matters. I can’t thank you enough for being on the earth world at the same time as me.
One of my sisters was diagnosed with a brain tumor the night before thanksgiving. She had surgery the next morning, and the only thing she asked me to do was to watch over her girls (all in their 40s). She is on a similar path as were Karen and Richard. Connections! Her daughters are supporting her and have risen to new heights with their own connections and love. [I’m up to thirteen Kleenex.] I would like to ask the Girlfriends for their prayers of healing for my sister, Robin. I know the power of prayer is real, as I am 20 years out from my own terminal cancer diagnosis in 2000. Unfortunately Robins communication center has been damaged and her frustration with speech, reading and writing is a major challenge at the moment.
I deeply appreciate this community of kindred spirits and Girlfriends that have circled around one another through your efforts to share your passion for life and kindness, good food, and creativity, cats and travel, and Joe! I am so glad you two are past your own stormy weather and feeling sunnier as we hope for an early spring. You are a precious beings and I love you.
You have my prayers Lorna. What a beautiful attitude you have. Hugs to you and to Robin. XOXO
Prayers for your sister and for you and her daughters!
God bless!
a big hug from the Netherlands
Oh, Lorna, Many many healing prayers for Robin. I will also put her on my dad’s prayer list and my mom’s bible study prayer list. Hugs to your heart and I am so glad you have Susan (she is a balm for the soul) and all the other kindred spirits here to lean on and feel a sense of connection. xoxo ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Dear Lorna, Your sister Robin and her daughters and you and your family have my prayers, too. It is wonderful how not alone we are here and, with you, I so appreciate this community of darling kindred spirits ~ each and every one, including you, are precious beings, and we are so blessed to have this lovely place that Susan built, where we can lift each other up, share our lives with each other, offer the support of our hearts, and wrap loving arms of prayer around each other. xoxoxo Christie
What a wonderful, uplifting blog today, Susan! Your specialty, edifying, encouraging us all… Thank you!
I gave my daughter the Happy Birthday mug for her 40th. She continues to celebrate that special day by drinking her morning coffee out of it 2 months later. It’s the little things! ~ Much love to you, Martha
Hi Susan! Thank you for sharing that touching story – Love knows no bounds! My cat, Bruce , is currently curled up in my office sleeping sound while the snow gently falls outside. Possibly a good cup of tea is in my near future!
What a LOVE-ly post! I’m taking to heart the section on self-care: been stressin’ way too much lately. Thank you for all the goodness you put into this world.
Thank you for the lovely bookmark… I just got new ink for my printer and I will use it the first time for this ❤️ ! Also Congratulations to Doreen and Greg…Yes, the kleenex did come in handy!
Enjoy short and sweet February. It is a red month for Valentine’s Day and hearts are all over the house on beds, the mantle, dish towels, a shirt and topped off by an anthurium on the table.💗
Happy Valentine’s Day!!
I love your newsletters. I turned the page on my calendar today and started thinking about Valentines Day. I think I’ll get out my watercolors and paint some hearts since they are about the only thing I can decently paint to send to family and friends. Thank you for all the good ideas. I am having tea in my Breath of Fresh Air Mug right now.
XO
I am almost breathless about that story! How does it make you feel, Susan, that you brought these people together? Thanks for putting it out for all of us to read. We needed inspiration today of all days.
Susan, you are so alive with love and vitality. I really admire you. Thanks for all of the heartfelt things you send our way!
Valentine’s Day comes at the absolute perfect time in February when we are aching for warmer days and spring flowers. Your blog is always a welcomed post in my inbox.
I could look at and reread your blog posts all day long….the words, photos, art, lettering–they all make me happy. Thank you for confirming that getting hooked on funny books and comedies is good for me–those are my “unwinders”.
Hello,
Doreen’s story reminds me of my married friends who were both widowers.
When they married, their previous wedding rings were “blended” into new rings for each other, in remembrance of their previous spouses. I thought this was lovely. I am so happy to hear of Doreen’s love story. It’s inspiring to us widows, and gives hope to others.
Thank you Susan for a wonderful uplifting newsletter on this crisp, cool February day.
Sincerely,
Randi—<—<-@
Hi Susan- always thrilled to open my email & find your latest post.
Thank you for the movie & tv recommendations. I think
you left out the pineapple amount in your pineapple
rib recipe!
Happy sweet Valentines Day!
Susan,
What a lovely blog. I had read from your Twitter page about Karen…It touched my heart. Yet, it goes to show us, we have no idea where our paths are going to take us. So believe and keep on going and make each day count. Even if it is the most simple of things. Like, I got the cold also, but, I was ugly inside and outside, I went to the garden and picked the last of the Roses. What little joy of beauty and aroma I had. Had to get really close to smell the roses tho haha
I met Patricia and Jamie at your book signing in Pasadena. We still e mail each other and have been able to get together also. I treasure that friendship. It is fun to find another that enjoys the same things that you do and learn more about each other. It is an adventure!
I also met a young artist at the Madonna Inn signing, we talked for three hours and I have tried to reach her…but I don’t think I got her name right. But I think of her often. So once again I have to thank you for all the nice things you do for all of us. In case you don’t know me, I am the one that stood up in the very back, in a black and white checker shirt when they took your picture, we were in SLO at the Apple Farm. I wanted my grandchildren to see me hahahaha Love, Susan P.
How you brighten a day Susan! Thank you for being so uplifting 🙂
Thank you Susan!
We need more uniters, like you, then dividers, even more so right now.
I look forward to each and every one of your blogs. So glad you and Joe are feeling better, I was getting worried when you hadn’t written for awhile.
Kindest Regards, Barbara Jean
Great inspiration! Thanks!!!
Happy February to all 💕💕💕
Happy February!! Thank you for another much-needed joyful blog post.
What a wonderful, almost magical, story of love….something we all needed to hear. Thank you for being the positive force that is so important in today’s world.
What a brief month to have all this goodness! besides extra days off!
Loved the story from Doreen, may it be a wonderful, long marriage.
Such an endearing story…. & heart-warming. Thank you, for your lovely posts – such a joy to receive them. Love the “Jack” finger puppet. I have a new kitty – Zachary – found him at 6 weeks old running around the bank in my neighborhood. He’s now 9 months & such a funny, sweet kitty!!!! I do have a trip planned in May – to Israel!!!! So excited!!!! Love to you, Joe & Jack
Oh my Gosh Susan, What a beautiful post! I am so excited about the book signing events in Duxbury! Fingers crossed that I can go. I have been waiting and hoping that you would have an event somewhat close to me so that I can go. I am so excited. I know it will be wonderful and If I do actually get to go, I will probably be star struck and get all tongue tied and start to cry and make a fool of myself. You seem to have that effect on people!
What a wonderful story of love, Loss and friendship of our girlfriend, Doreen. Thank you to her for sharing it with all of us. Just what I needed to hear in times like these. Gives me renewed faith and hope in humanity. I wish her much happiness for the future!
Susan’s Punxsutawney Pudding is great! Happy Valentine’s Day everyone ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️ Thanks Susan for the comfy post, you always make me feel better.
Dear Susan–I’m sure you know how much happiness and pleasure your books, blog, Willards, and beautiful crafts bring to all your many fans, who proudly consider ourselves your girlfriends.
But, if you ever need a reminder, just LOOK at what you did: YOU brought Doreen and Karen together in a wonderful friendship, and now you have brought Doreen and Greg together in love!
You have brought joy to so many people.
Thank you for making all our days brighter!
your link to the Detectorists is unavailable! Whaaaa!
Susan . . .your posts are always so fun to read. Thanks for being you . .you bring so much joy to so many people! ❤️
Susan, it’s always such a delightful surprise when I check my emails and find your blog waiting for me! I’m excited to try the Detectorists as I’m always looking for a few good laughs to counteract the ongoing stress of our politics, and I love all things England:)! Your Mother’s Day Tea sounds wonderful, and I’m thinking of seeing if a friend I have in mind would be free to travel there with me. And your suggestion to give Valentines to all our dear ones, not just sweethearts, has inspired me to try painting some simple watercolor heart cards for my girlfriends. You’re always an inspiration! I would so love to meet you, so maybe in May…😃.
Dear Susan,
Loved your very special friendship blog. It is so heartening to hear stories of friendship and how rewarding they can be. While reading your blog just now, I had a call from an old friend of over 30 years. What a wonderful coincidence. We set up a lunch date to continue our little chat and catch up. We all need friends to share our ups and downs with. Your blogs are so uplifting and always give me a warm and calming feeling that there is someone out there who cares for us even though we live different lives, we are connected by friendship.❣️❣️
Thank you Susan! Always a treat to spend time with you. 🥰
Oh Susan, a cup would be lovely. I have followed you for many years, with books, calendars and now the internet. I so enjoy your blog and newsletter. Seeing your art, listening to your romantic musica, and, reading your fairy tale letters…ahhhh!
Happy Valentine’s Day
How I wish I could join you for one of those parties! They sound so fun!!
Loved the love story
Thank you for the recipes. Why no pineapple in the “Pineapple Spareribs”? They sound delish just the same! Thank you for brightening up a gray afternoon!
2 cups pineapple juice?
Wonderful as always!
I love starting a new month and reading your blog. It is always positive and uplifting.
love the story of Doreen and Greg!
Rabbit Rabbit! As I sit at my computer I only have to look up to see the same page on my 2020 Susan Branch calendar…my annual gift to myself as well as the year’s mini one for the kitchen! At times whilst reading the story of Doreen and Greg I could barely see the computer screen amidst the tears welling up and spilling over. It seems there was a wee bit of “cupidry” on your part, though unbeknownst to you! A very beautiful story and I do so love happy endings. The Pineapple Spareribs recipe for Groundhog Day sounds delicious, but as I detest onions I will pass on the Punxsutawney Pudding. I hope that Phil does not see his shadow tomorrow. How I remember waiting in the cold on Gobbler’s Knob in Pennsylvania for his appearance and forecast. Thank-you!
Thank you Susan for another lovely post. I recently purchased your snail mail Willards and am enjoying them very much. I have yet to have the chance to meet you here in Northern California though you have been here for book signings nor when you are in So Cal but hopefully someday. Can’t wait for the new book to be out. I think of you often when I use or look at many of my tea cups (I have eight of the collection and have given my mother two more). Two years ago I spent time on Cape Cod and visited Titcombs with a friend from Connecticut. The store had some of the cups so I surprised her with the very first one released for her birthday gift. She loves all things Susan Branch. The joy on her face was well worth the purchase. Thanks for all of your love and inspiration. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Such Joy reading your Blog. Thank you. Love the story about Karen, and LOVE. My heart always feels better after reading your words. With Love, Marybeth
Hi Susan,
I always look forward to and enjoy your monthly blogs. The ‘Love Story’ in this one was especially heartwarming…we need all the sparks of bright light we can find during the long, dreary months of winter and the gloomy daily news.
Thanks for being one of my beacons.
When will your next book be out about your last trip to England? I loved your Fine romance and have travelled to many of the same places. Margaret in Atlanta,Ga
Beautiful blog, as always. So happy for the engaged couple—what a story! 💕
Can’t wait to print out your bookmarks to share w my pals! Thank you!
Such a lovely story! Thank you so much for sharing it. You made my day!
Lovely love story! Thanks for sharing it with us!
Oh Susan,
Just enjoyed that love story. Thanks for sharing. It would be lovely to withdraw mugs!
What a beautiful story of friendship and love, and the power of the internet to connect people in wonderful ways. Wishing Doreen and Gregory many years of happiness together. 🙂
My calendar is marked to reserve my tickets. Sounds like a wonderful mother/daughter/girlfriend day out! Thanks Susan!
Always delightful to read your blog posts! Entertaining, fulfilling and inspiring. Girlfriends! They’re the best!
Oh my Susan what a heartwarming story!
Definitely a Kleenex moment.
All the luck in the world to them and hope they have a wonderful life together.
Gill U.K.
Oh my goodness….what a story! Karen was a friend of mine as well <3 she bought Scandinavian ornaments I made, and we became friends….she even made me a pair of mittens, she'd make people mittens out of repurposed old sweaters! She was very sweet and kind. I'm so happy to hear that Greg and Doreen have found happiness after such grief. It makes me believe we do indeed have guardian angels!
And rabbit, rabbit! My rabbits had babies last month! I am up to my ears in rabbits, but I'm loving it 🙂
Hi Susan! I share your blog posts with my sister. For some reason she doesn’t get them. After she reads it we get on the phone and “discuss” our favorite parts and always end up saying we wish we could be a fly on your wall! Every year I purchase two of your calendars as Christmas presents for us. We have been enjoying your trip to England and it’s country side this year. Kathy was there in her twenties (we’re in our 70’s now). Right off the bat she shared her memories of her trip as we leafed through each month’s framed picture. What a lovely gift you gave us! Thanks so much. Would love to meet you in May….
Dearest Susan,
I hope you know that Karen is smiling down on us all, as we share our story of love, hope and happiness. I started to laugh as I went though your blog post and saw the Valentine’s Day card Karen sent you….I received the exact same one!!! LOL! In my heart, there will always be that special place for Karen. She is missed dearly. I loved that I could share our story with you all. I wanted to really share the fact that although we come here to enjoy your posts, share in the loveliness of all the wonderful things that run through our hearts and minds as we read on, our dreams are shared by so many wonderful women ( I like to call it the “Sisterhood”). We connect through hearts, kindred spirit to kindred spirit. Unbeknownst to our conscious minds….our hearts make friends with each other. No, it’s not through physically meeting. It happens at a level so different from all other. We share our joys and sadness. We feel for each other, we care about each other, we worry for one another. So, my dear sisters…if you ever find yourself feeling down, without a friend to share your time with…just open your computer, laptop or ipad and type in 162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ and the rest will become like a warm cozy blanket being placed over you on a cold winter day, along with a hot cup of tea to sip as you enter into the world of Susan, Joe, Jack and the sisters of the Sisterhood, where everyone is welcome. How could one still feel down or lonely?
Happy February!
~ Doreen ~ xoxoxo
P.S. Patricia….go….you’ll love it. You’ll be so happy you decided to do it. Think of all the wonderful women you will get to meet and become friends with. Do it!
You will love reading all the wonderful responses to your Love Story, Doreen, Thank you so much!
Soooo Happy for you, Doreen! What a beautiful story and such lovely words above. I am so thankful that you shared with us. You will touch many hearts. Congratulations❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Susan,… everything that you create = sunshine in my little corner of the world. For 22 years (and counting) now. 🙂 ✨☀️🌎💕✨ Have a beautiful, every day!! ✨👌🏼💓
xo ~ Cindy 🌷🍃 😌🥰☺️
Happy Valentine’s Day, Susan! Thanks for the give away!
AWESOME blog !!! What fun for the rest of my day~~ Settle in with a liquid refreshment~~ CHOCOLATE~~my latest Library book~~AND THEN re~read your blog and all the comments from ”the GIRLFRIENDS ” !!!!!
What a great blog. I read it 3 times!!! I t got me in the Valentine mood so I put my valentine decorations out including your Love book.
Happy Valentine 🙂
Silly me…the website should have read…www.162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/, sorry Susan !
~ Doreen ~
Thank you for sharing such an uplifting story. I always enjoy reading your blog. I come away from reading it feeling content and happy.
Happy Groundhog day to you too. And Valentine’s day also. Such a lovely romantic story. We never know what the future holds for us!!!
Barbara
Your blog is always the quiet nook in the daily storms. Reading it makes my heart smile. Thank you for being such a shining bit of hope.
I am so glad I found your blog! It is fun to read- inspirational and, in many ways, I feel like we are kindred spirits. Also, good recipes and beautiful pictures.
Rabbit, rabbit!! Happy February, Susan!! :*
That beautiful story is a “Godwink” for sure!
Such a sweet story and goes to show that love will find a way. You are so right that life is both sun and shadows and we must have both to appreciate the light. Thank you for all you do to lighten this journey for the rest of us Susan.
Your new blog was just what I needed on this dreary February day! The story of connection and happiness after loss gives us hope, too. What a lovely story! Thank you!
Wow ! Susan ! it is so true you are thread of the “Girlfriends” You’ve saved many of us in different ways. I would be lost without your blogs and books. They help me be in a peaceful place….the best therapy ever …. .my life at times can be very hard. HUGS ! and thank you…
I love it all, Susan. I love your watercolors, your fan letters from all over, heartfelt stories of love and friendships, exciting events coming up. You and your love of homemaking are contagious. I have little bits of you all over my house; some things from many years past. I never get rid of any of it. Your books have a special special place
I love the Detectorists. I watched it in Acorn a few years back. I always enjoy your blogs and your lovely artwork. Can’t wait for your next book. Hugs girlfriend
Liz Hand
did you make an art typo….Gash instead of Cash?
Your blog posts are a breath of fresh air. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to bring beauty into this world. I live in Morongo Valley, California, near Joshua Tree, just fyi.
I traveled to PA 5 years ago to attend a Gladys Taber fan club event. I had discovered her many years ago and collected all the books I could find. I was so thrilled to find your connections with her. I joined her club and thus I learned of the meetings once each year. So thank you for this connection.
P.S. I also collect all your books too!
Sherry from San Diego.
Dear Susan. I must say what a heart felt story about two people lives it really touched me. I love to read your blog and your books Love Cynthia
It’s always so much fun to read your blog. Wonderful art and great quotes. And then you have wonderful things to giveaway.
It always brings a smile to my face when I see an e-mail that says Susan Branch Blog. I can hardly believe it is February already! Your bouquet is lovely.
Your blog—you, Susann, are a Godsend! Happy ❤️Day to you!!
Love the mugs!
Smiles and tears… lovely, thank you!
Happy Valentines Day! ❤️❤️❤️
Dear Susan: I loved the story about the two people lives it was a heart felt story. I enjoy your blog and your books. Love Cynthia
What the world needs now is love sweet love….thanks for the Valentine💕
Your blogs just get better and better! They lift my spirits…and touch my heart. Keep doing what you are doing – always and forever❤️
Susan, You are such a happy enthusiastic gal. I admire your energy. Today your messages hit me so good. On Monday I am having my 84th birthday and I cannot believe it. Your messages today are so “appro”.
I first met you many years ago when you journeyed out to Conner Prairie Indiana for a lovely lunch and book signing. The Conner Prairie Alliance who hosted is still growing and have many new things like a real HOT AIR BALLOON ( which goes up and one can see for miles)
And a great big tall Tree House in the woods that is wonderful.
I have moved from there to Louisiana, but my dear friends keep me posted. Best to you and Joe
I remember it well, loved being there, Diane, I brought my mom with me! Happy Birthday!
Loved the sweet story, also loved the Jack finger puppet, my little grandson would love that ♥️
Love from Vermont
The sweet post you included from Doreen was a Valentine to all of us. I wish her all the happiness I am sure she deserves. Karen sounded like she was a loving and beautiful woman blessed with a kind soul. I’m sure it broke Doreen’s heart to lose both her husband and Karen. Now Doreen and her fiancé can help to mend she other’s hearts. Glorious!
It’s always like a sweet vacation when I take the time to read your posts. The Doreen-Greg story is wonder-full. I agree that Karen arranged the happy ending. Happy Valentine’s Day to one and all!
Dear Susan:
I comment on every blog but can never find it again to see if you’ve answered!
I just mostly want you to know how happy and peaceful your blog posts make me feel and I am sure everyone else who loves you and your work! We need you especially now in this world!!!
The story in this blog post was incredible. I remember how I found you, and it always makes me smile.
Lots of love and happiness to you Susan
Kitty
I answer you all the time Kitty! I know your name!😄
Susan, thanks so much for your blog today, which felt like a sunbeam breaking through the 9 cloudy days in a row we have had here in the Chicago area! You always inspire me, uplift and cheer me! You always remind us that there are so many good things around us to celebrate, the simple things that make life and home happy!
Dear Susan, I’ve been a long time fan of all your work over the years and own some of your books and have read others. January was the longest year, but I made it thru. What I thought was going to be an easier procedure turned out to be more complicated and I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Ohio hasn’t seen many sunny days as of late and any little note of love from you would be a welcome lift. Or if it was a mug filled with your kind thoughts that would be wonderful, too. I’m trying to remain positive thru all this and chemo starts on February 17 so I’ll be celebrating Happy Hearts Day before hand and looking forward to sunnier days ahead. I’m getting out my Girlfriends Forever book to share with all my friends who are helping me thru this. “It’s the little things that mean the most” Love & Wishes!
Stinking cancer.⚡️ But how much better the treatments are these days! I’m adding my best and most beautiful prayers to the cloud of good wishes that surround you. xoxo One day at a time.
Thank you Susan! ♥️ That means so much to me!
Yes-one day at a time.
Dear Cheryl, four years ago this month I also was diagnosed with ovarian cancer so I understand your terrible shock. But because of the power of prayer, my family and friends, and especially hope and gratefulness, I’m still around and looking forward to the day when I will be cancer-free. You are in my heart and I’m sending you positive thoughts for successful treatment and years following. You can do it! Ann
Lovely Valentine’s Day – ahhh. My mother always gave us a gift that day and I remember what those were more than I remember what my birthday gifts were. Happy Valentine’s Day to all the girl friends. Hug, Ellen
Hi again, Susan,
I should have mentioned in my earlier comment that we are leaving for England on May 9!!
Using A Fine Romance as inspiration, we are going to Windsor Castle, Chawton House, Dorset to see the area Thomas Hardy wrote about. Then, in the Cotswolds we are going to Highgrove Garden, the William Morris home, Barnsley House (Rosemary Verey’s garden), then north to Chatsworth House and Stoke on Trent to the Emma Bridgewater factory. We are staying in charming cottages – all air B&Bs.
We are so excited!
Darlene
Fabulous itinerary. You will LOVE all those things! xoxo
Hi Susan,
Thank you for the bookmark! I printed one just…now. Thank you also for sharing Doreen’s story. So very touching and a good reminder that the friendships and the girlfriends (or boyfriends) behind them are what keep us going. What would we do without them? We are enjoying a very mild January in SW Idaho. The mountains are covered in snow but down here in the valley, we’re wearing light jackets and bustling about!
Happy Groundhog’s Day (time to watch the movie again!),
Samantha 🙂
Dear Susan,
Thank you for your message of hope.
You are truly an inspiration!
Fondly,
Debbie from Eastampton, NJ
Hi Susan!
I love how you put your heart and soul into all you share with all of us which is the basis of this loving and supportive community! Thank you so very much!
So much of what is shared touches my heart so deeply. The part of today’s post that was the most meaning full was regarding the stress relief… my sweet eighty six year mother passed away. I sincerely could use some suggestions on funny books and comedies.
Thank you❣💕
You’d love Leap Year . . . so very sorry Jane. No words for such a huge loss. The only thing that helps, is time, and memories. xoxoxo
Susan words from you are always a delight. I have to tell on myself. When I looked at the two different calendars, I thought wait a minute. I know I ordered the pictures of England calendar but I don’t have it up. I went in my kitchen I put the 2019 calendar back up and didn’t even know it. To defend my silliness, I had two brain surgeries this past fall. We knew from the beginning it was benign but the size and location made it a very serious surgery. We traveled to Houston where our son lives to a hospital there, and to a wonderful surgeon. I have some things to overcome, but I am doing well, and so happy to be home in Indiana. Now I’m on a quest to find that 2020 calendar. I have added the film Leap Year to my list.
Susan, what a lovely romantic story Doreen was willing to share with us. I wish Gregory and her the best! I am of the same notion as you – perhaps Karen had a hand in the matchmaking.
Like so many others, I thank you for the little things you share with us, all the quotes, bookmarks, your enthusiasum for life!
Of course I would love the mugs! Keeping my fingers crossed.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you, Joe and Jack,
Bonnie Baker
Earlier today, the topic on one of the podcasts I follow was “The 5 Best and Worst Things About Winter”…hellooooo! Along came your lovely blog post. Thank you for consistently being one of my favorite things about all seasons, but in particular Winter! Wishing you endless beauty!!
As always, thank you, Susan, for your lovely emails. I always look forward to seeing them in my mail.box.
I always look forward to reading your blog, Susan. And, I can’t wait until “Enchanted” is released so I can buy a copy. Your writings and art work feed my soul!