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! ❌⭕️
love your waffle iron; love your cups; hope this is how I enter to win! Your blog brightens my day.
Lovely, lovely, every single thoughtful, picturesque bit!
Action step for 8am March 24 on the calendar!
Thank you!
You’ve brought me to tears once again Susan. What a touching story and proof that there are angels among us! I loved it almost as much as The Pancakes story!
Thank you for sharing it with us and for always being positive and loving on your blog.
Love from Barbara in South Carolina
Love the Jack Finger Puppet!! Thank you for all of the wonderful joy that you bring to my life with your blog. I think about how excited I get when I see a new one in my inbox! Have a great February and enjoy your “extra” day!! And Happy Valentine’s Day. 💖
Hugs,
Pat
Thank you for your ray of blog sunshine and coziness on a cold, damp winter day in Kentucky. The story of Doreen and Greg is a testament to friendship,love, and romance.
I’m so grateful for your post today. Been in bed sick all day and I was tired of tv. This cheered me right up! The story of the friendship blossoming into love…making me cry now. What a gift you give us all by being a reprieve in this stormy time of our country.
Just waking up from a leisurely Saturday afternoon nap, my puppy on one side of me, my kitty on the other. Seldom m do I nap but what made it perfect was finding your post for a sweet read before placing my feet on the floor. – Alana from San diego
Thank you, Susan, for your upbeat blogs. I so appreciate them and your lovely art. My husband of 55 years died last June and my friend, Patty, from California introduced your blogs to me. I always enjoy seeing them in my computer mailbox. Blessings to you and your husband from Oregon.
Susan: I have been a fan of yours for a long time. I always enjoy your blog with its myriad of thoughtful quotes, painterly illustrations and relatable stores. The poem ” Pledge for a Friend,” in particular, struck a chord with me. Thanks for sharing a these moments of beauty with us all.
Hi Susan, that was another great blog and what a surreal story! Someone from above definitely had their hand in that one! Serendipity strikes again! I’m glad to hear you and Joe are feeling better. I got hit with it too and I’m finally on the mend. I’m anxious to try your two recipes. I have the 30 th anniversary book signed by you and displayed with my Valentine decor so there’s no excuse except that it’s not exactly cold here in Southern California but I can imagine!
Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you Susan! Keep spreading your love, joy and whimsical talents! We need more people like you in this world!
I always look forward to your happy thoughts. I love your focus on friendships and kindness.
I have your pocket calendar and enjoy your art work…thanks for sharing yourself with us.
Linda
Oh gosh! That was quite the post! It had everything, excitement, love, tears and a cat. 💖 That story of friendship and love could be a Hallmark movie. Yes there were tears, but it’s very heartwarming. The flowers are gorgeous, and no doubt smell lovely with the stock in them, one of my favorite scents. Happy Valentine’s day to you and Joe.
Almost forgot to say Rabbit Rabbit this morning! Thank you for your good stories. They always seem to have heart strings. Happy Valentines Day to you and Joe. Can’t wait to try the rib recipe.
xoxo
Pam
I’m left handed and I’d love to win a two sided ❤️cup. It’s would be lovely to be able to enjoy a beautiful picture whilst sipping morning coffee.
Dear Susan,
Yes, you made me cry, but they were happy tears. I needed a happy ending. I can’t wait to watch the program from England that you shared with us. Sounds lovely and fun! I’m wondering if you have ever seen “Anne with an E”. It’s wonderful to watch – Anne of Green Gables for grownups. I thought of you every time I saw it. Watching it will make you smile and feel warm and happy. Hardily recommended! Love you!💕
Wonderful blog! Happy for the couple who found love through an unusual circumstance! Love to all our “sisters” this month especially. The poem on friendship is the best! Thanks and “Rabbit, rabbit”!
What a ” lovely” blog. I really enjoyed the special love story that happened because of your blog and the friendship that that you promote among your followers. I can’t wait until your new book comes out to add to my collection. I love everything thing you do.
Wow, What a story, Many Blessings to Greg and Doreen, many years of happiness. Thank you Susan for sharing, yes , kleenex was needed. I love the cups and looking forward to Spring. Brook
Aah, Susan, you are such a day brightener! Thank you for bringing the sunshine of human friendship to a dreary winter day. And thank you for the offer of a free mug for some lucky person. I wish I could afford a whole set, every one….
WHAT A SWEET, SWEET STORY. YOU ALWAYS BRING SUCH JOY TO ALL OF US WHO READ YOUR WRITING. THANK YOU.
From Northville, Michigan, where January had only 8 days of partial sun and the rest gray, cloudy and cold. And the solution was opening your email filled with your Rabbit Rabbit sunshine and the sweetest ever love story from Doreen. Plus news of your new calendar.
How grateful everyone is. May this same sunshine pour into your home.
Gratefully, JoAnn.
Hi Susan, what a beautiful story on ur blog. Its amazing what life deals us. This year on Feb. 13th I met my husband. He was in the Navy and came home on leave. I had been writing to him for 3months. I knew his family and got his address from his Mom. We were engaged n July and married in Nov. This year we will celebrate our 50th Anniversary. Have a wonderful Valentines Day!! Loretta/Calif.
Rabbit, rabbit, Susan. And thanks for another inspiring blog post full of love! And that waffle maker is just beautiful. Happy February from North Carolina.
Susan, as always, such a treat to sit down to read your blog! We love The Detectorists so it was fun to listen to the music from the show. And what a perfectly sweet story about Doreen and Gregory! A lovely Valentine tale. And I had to laugh about the nap quote as I had just woken from a nap! Thank you for always bringing a little bit of sunshine my life! I just turned my page on your calendar this morning!
Susan: I have been a longtime fan of your artwork. I always enjoy your blog with its myriad of thoughtful quotes, painterly illustrations and relatable stories. The poem “Pledge for a Friend”, in particular, struck a chord with me. You always make me reminesce a little bit.
Detectorists is a super fun show. Hated to see it end. Loved their faces and attitudes. Our country has lost its way and we need distractions like this. Susan, please continue to share your beautiful life.
What a wonderful romance story ❤️💝
The magic of your letters is a gift to us, always arriving “just in time.” I often feel like I am reading a sweet letter from a childhood friend. Of course the recipes are always a hit! I’ve lost count how many batches of the Spiced Pecans I’ve made this winter and shared with friends and family. And because it’s pecans, I tell everyone “they’re good for you!”
Must close here and get ready to watch “Dr. Zhivago” on Turner Classic Movies channel!!
Have a lovely Sunday!
~Sharon
Pledge for a Best Friend, the letter from Doreen … what perfect timing for the spiritual lift your blog gave me today following a week of too many losses. And I love that I can forward some joy and comfort on to others. Thank you … Ethel
What a wonderful love story. Thank you for sharing! I always enjoy your blog, it is always uplifting, something needed at this time.
Brenda Brady
Beautiful thoughts. Your musings awaken memories for me.
Susan, you have such a lovely way of shining light in the darkest of days! Thanks for another heart warming letter. I feel as if we are old friends. I’m sending you a big hug today.
Just changed months on my English countryside calendar. So peaceful. But my heart is heavy for Britain and us as long held values like telling the truth seem to be fading and politicians on both sides of the Atlantic continue to act in ways that defy their constituents.
Trying hard to avoid cynicism so I filled my house with flowers and find comfort in my home with my hubby and our three cats (to which I am allergic). Planning a birthday dinner for a close friend and trying to stay focused on my many blessings.
Love reading your blog … always something new to learn. Watching the 1st episode of The Detectorists right now!!
This is my second year without my husband for Valentine’s Day. Nothing takes the sadness away or the grief. You, dearest Susan, help to lift my heart by reading your blog. Someday I must tell you the magic behind meeting my husband. Happy Valentine’s Day!
I loved this. It does my heart so much good to hear wonderful love stories. I am always excited when I see your name pop up in my email. I know that I am in for a real treat and many smiles. I look forward to every post.
A perfectly romantic love story, a happy ending after loss! I’m so happy for them. It’s been nearly 5 years without my beloved, last night I had a bit of a breakdown over it…
Thank you for your blog and happy writings, I always enjoy seeing a new one pop up!
Happy Valentines to you & Joe💐
Just what I needed to read today! Vanna dear, please pick me! I’m a Valentine red living aholic!
Barbara
I’m going to look out for the movie LEAP YEAR to watch on the 29th. Thanks for the tip Susan x
I love February, the month of love 🙂
It gives us all a great excuse to tell people what they mean to us- so thanks to you for adding such a pleasant email to look forward to from time to time-this after many years that I have enjoyed my datebook, using it still for important occasions to be celebrated with cards.
Happy February Susan, and honestly, I hope I win that delightful cup !
Loved the “Love Story”
Those of us Romantics can find love just about anyplace, just keep our hearts open for it to come in.
I received your wall calendar as a Christmas gift, “Love it”
Woke up this morning and changed your wall calendar to February. It’s always a special treat to see what you wrote and painted for the new month….I never peek ahead, so it’s like getting a gift the 1st of every month. Also, thanks for sharing that moving story. When a door is closed, a window opens as they say. So glad Doreen and Greg were brought together through the magic of your blog. Rabbit, Rabbit.
I’m wishing and hoping I win a cup of yours!
It was very nice to hear from you today. Thank you for all you do to encourage us in so many different ways. Loved reading all of your books (more than once by the way) and I look forward to your new one, Enchanted. I sent all of them to my sister and then had to re-buy them for when I get the chance to read them again. I hope you and your family have a happy February. Love always❣
Blessings to Greg and Doreen; happiness ever after!
Would love to win the mugs; beautiful Valentine present.
What a treat to read your blog…I’m dreaming of coming to the tea at Duxbury, enjoyed reading the romance story, love seeing all your paintings & photos and then you are giving away a lovely Valentine gift of your beautiful mugs! I am indeed smiling as I sip my tea and dream about coming up East! Thank you for brightening our winter day!
Rabbit Rabbit!!Its always a good day when there is a Susan Branch blog post. Thank you as always…..You find a way to make people feel good even from something bad. Thank you for the refreshing break in my day to read. Happy Groundhog Day!!
Smiles,
Liz
Two days ago my niece passed on and my heart broke again. I am 85 years old and she was the last one in my birth family that remembered me when I was a young girl. We quibbled back and forth everyday to each other in e-mails and messenger and loved each other to the moon and back.
You gave me “her kind of love” in your true story of Karen.
I thank you for reminding me that Love is all around us everyday
Jody in Michigan
Thank you for sharing this wonderful story of love…and quite a bit of amazingness.
Beautiful post as always. I love when you update your blog! Have a Happy Valentine’s Day with your Joe <3
Wonderful story well timed! So important to let those we care about that they light up our lives frequently. Yes please I’d enjoy so much being able to win your mugs. You see, we find out this week if my daughters cancer has slowed down. It is not curable but we cherish every day. And although she is 48, she is still my child. To have tea with her in your mugs would be so special! I shall keep my fingers crossed.
Here’s to a snug and cozy February! You’re wonderful ❤️
Hello Susan 🙂 Not only do I get to change the page on my calendar today but I find your post too (smile) I love this post and the Jack finger puppet is so cute. I appreciate the de-stressing advice, much needed during this time. I love those mugs too, they are just beautiful! I enjoy you posting about the best friends. Mine is going thru a very hard time right now. I just picked up a Valentine card for her and plan on putting together a very special box of cosiness that says I love you 🙂 Thank you Susan 🙂
Susan- Your blog always touches my heart. I am in awe of your talent. Thank you.
God bless you for all you do to make the world a better place.Love your blog and look forward to them. Happy Valentine’s day!Mary in Va.
Loved hearing the story about Greg and Doreen. So glad they made their connection through you! I’m excited to say that I have booked my first trip to England, Wales and Scotland in June. I’m so looking forward to seeing in person some of the places you’ve shared with us – including Beatrix Potter’s home. Happy Valentines to you and Joe!
Oh, Susan, such a wonderful message and post I needed today. It was so lovely and such kind folks expressing their love and concern for each other. I have both your calendars hanging, see you in every direction. The post today brought tears as it reminded me I do matter, thank you for that. Blessings always to you, Joe, kitty and your dear followers…thank you so much, with love!
Love reading your blogs, makes me feel loved and happy.
Thank you ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I love Doreen and Greg’s story. So happy for them and their new future together.
Such a lovely, encouraging post! Just what I needed today!
Love the Pledge for a Friend ❤️
And the love story is so great…isn’t God amazing ❤️
Happy Valentines Day!
I look forward to watching the show you mentioned while I drink a wonderful cup of tea. Love your mugs.
Well, I didn’t get a kleenex–silly me!! Such a sweet, lovely story. Better than any movie. I told my husband Rabbit, Rabbit this morning and he looked at me like I had taken complete leave of my senses. Made me laugh so much he was convinced totally!! 🙂 I’m enjoying my English countryside calendar so much. COunting down the days–119 until we’re back in jolly old England again. Hugs to you all!!
You have such a wonderfully refreshing take on things, Susan. I especially liked your reminders about stress relief—I know I really need those and I assume others do as well! Thank you for lifting and connecting our spirits!
Oh Susan, I did not take your advice and had to stop reading to go get a kleenex. How wonderful, such a sweet story. So glad that the sadness led to happiness. I think there are two angels in heaven that had something to do with it! Your flowers are lovely, we can’t wait for enchanted and I will be joining you in spirit at your tea and supper. Can’t wait to see the photos.
I’m going to make the pudding! Yummy 😋
Always look forward to the happiness contained in your posts. Not nearly enough to go around these days or so it seems. Our Golden Retriever stares at your pictures of Jack–I think she has more than a passing fancy for Jack :). Happy Valentine’s to all!
Doreen and Greg’s sorry bright tests to my eyes. Bless them. I would love the mugs.
Susan, that is a lovely story perfect for February. Thank you for the bookmark too.
Norma
Such a heartwarming story you shared today.
Sure would like to win your lovely cups!
My heart always does a summersault when I see a notice I. My inbox that you have posted a blog or Williams. Thank you for always bringing live and beauty to so many.
With all the excitement for the “Super Bowl”, hopefully everyone will remember to be on the lookout for Punxsutawney Phil’s announcement! I don’t understand why your dish is called “Punxsutawney Pudding” when there’s no milk, extract flavoring, or sugar? It’s more like a “Punxsutawney Casserole”?! Love the banner and Love Notes…….
That love story is so full of joy! Thank you for sharing it with us. 💞
Susan,
Once again we have been given a story, and what a story about friendship in the most unlikely ways, which in turn makes a love story in the most surprising way.. More special because it is true and not a Hollywood made up romance. Kleenex were indeed needed, or the sweetest hankie that reminds us of days gone by and what can be.
Thank you for the Valentine’s. We love you and appreciate your most delightful heart.
Love and bunny hugs, Shirley
Dear Susan, What a sweet friendship that turns into a love story! Thank you for sharing that God Wink story with us. Anything new to say about the possible movie? I sure do hope it comes to fruition!!! Love and many hugs to you
I am so glad you found “the Detectorists”- i loved that show and have already watched it two times. I don’t know if you’ve found “Travels by Narrowboat” or “cruising the cut” on amazon but they are so lovely. Two different fellows who gave up regular life to live on narrowboats and cruise the canals of England. Beautiful scenery. Each fellow has a different approach to filming and both are enjoyable.
What a sweet story. I’m wishing them the very best! Thank you for writing, Susan. Your posts brighten up my inbox! Along those lines, have you heard of the book Joyful: The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness by Ingrid Fetell Lee? I just finished it and it reminded me of all the small little ways you choose to infuse charm and beauty to your home and life. ❤️
I’m trying to leave a note for you about the love story but it’s hard with all the happy tears in my eyes! It’s always a miracle when people find each other in today’s world. Thank you for sharing the story!
Thank you, Susan, for the wonderful stories!!
Thank you so much, Susan, for the beautiful love story. So glad you shared that with us today. This is the twelfth day my husband has been in the hospital. He’s on the transplant list for a new liver and kidney. Your letter today reminded me that I must take care of myself and try to lessen the stress and fear I’m dealing with. Thank you again for the uplifting and positive newsletter!
Hi Susan, I was so happy to read your blog today especially the part from Doreen. What wonderful friends you help us to connect with through your art, your books and your blogs. Thanks for being a wonderful connector. Rabbit 🐇 Rabbit 🐰, Joanne V.
Lovely sentiments. I especially loved the story about Doreen and Gregory, so special.
Susan, spending time on your webpage always lifts my spirits, and usually brings tears as well. After such a week of national/political frustration and strife, as well as death and sorrow in southern California, it is good to reflect on what is beautiful and true, and think on these things.
I’ve always loved your writing and artistry. So touching and always positive and joyful! Thank you!
Happy. Valentine’s Day Susan, Joe, & Jack❤️❤️❤️
You always joy to your readers. Thank-you! XO
Rabbit, Rabbit to you and all our dear friends. Loved the sweetness of this post. Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your Joe.
Smiles.
Enjoyed flipping my two Susan Branch calendars to new pages!
Love your blogs, a breath of freshness and a lift of spirit on a cold gray gloomy day. Your art work is inspiring look forward to your creativity each time I receive the email. The “love “ mugs would be a wonderful way to start a day.
Just ordered those little notes last night. Love the bookmarks too. Hope I win. What a nice story. I had a brain tumor 5 years ago too. Non cancerous and had it removed. The size of a tangerine. I am all good so far
I would so enjoy winning a Valentine❤️ cup. I’m left handed and it would be wonderful to enjoy your two sided art work whilst I sip my morning coffee.
Dear Susan, I so enjoy your blogs, as do all your followers.
And this one was a perfect Valentine. I collect your books, and look forward to Enchanted.
You have certainly found your calling, with all your talents. Thanks for sharing them with us.
Your blog brings warmth to a cold, wet, northwest rainy day — thank you! In the last four days, I have used my moon and stars cup, my winter cup, my Jack cup (my favorite) and my Martha’s Vineyard cup for my daily tea. All your cup designs bring a smile and I am thankful for them.
Happy Groundhog Day, Susan! Thanks to you and Doreen for sharing such a beautiful love story. Your blogs are always a treat and brighten my day! Happy Valentine’s Day too. Joe really knows how to choose beautiful flowers and fun Valentine waffle breakfasts. Big hugs to both of you ❤️ Annie
Your blog is always a breath of fresh air. Thanks for sharing your life.
Thanks for all the joy you bring. Always something new and wonderful to learn from you!
Thank you for such an inspiring blog during this time of year when we are just waiting for signs of spring! Your blog posts are like a gift.
The Dectorist is a wonderful show. We watched some of it a few years ago on Netflix and I agree with your recommendation. I was so happy they did a 3rd season and ended it well, but I’m still sorry there won’t be anymore. Thank you for sharing Doreen’s letter and best wishes to her and Greg. That is such a powerful heartfelt story. I can see the Heart of the Home calendar every time I sit down at the table. I had to smile when I saw Norman Rockwell’s birthday on it.
Reading your blog always leaves me smiling. Thank you.
When I get a notice in my email that you have a blog post up I always save the reading for a quiet time so I can enjoy it and this was a sweet one to read. Thanks!
Oh Susan, how in the goodness can one ‘not’ find joy creeping right through the screen when you ‘come and share’……..you’re everything lovely!
Blessings (…..with an extra day added – sweet number 29!) :o)
Barbara