Well, for the first time, I finally sort of have everyone where I want them! Home! MUSICA
There’s my hero off to rob the grocery store! We are doing fine here, so far so good. On our third week of staying home, doing our part to protect ourselves and the brave health workers at our little hospital. Joe doesn’t LOVE going out dressed like this, but he does it for me.💞
Still dark and quiet this morning . 
. . I finished the new calendars yesterday! DONE💃! Yay! Now I get to write my Christmas Story! So excited! I put everything away and cleaned the studio to get ready ~ and now the house is smooth and quiet. Behind a chair on the floor of this room is a little machine I got many years ago … a recording of birdsong on a constant loop. Because it’s still too cold, we can’t open our windows yet, but it’s April and I, personally, am ready, READY, READY for spring. Recorded birdsong works for me till the real thing comes along. Makes me happy!
It’s getting a little lighter, a little warmer every day . . . Which is perfect because for some reason our supermarket decided the one thing they could live without during this pandemic was, wait for it, yes . . . F L O W E R S. Totally nutty. So good for the soul. They’ve been #1 on my shopping list the two times Joe has gone. But, no.
So here we are, in the NICK of time! Spring, the season of hope and rebirth.
And it’s purr-fect here! Just ask Jack!
So out comes the yellow . . . Easter is on my birthday this year! I love it when Easter’s on my birthday! And by the 12th, we’ll already be almost halfway through April. This time with pandemic feels like forever, but it will pass much faster than we think. I’ve been thinking about what I’ll have to show for it. (Besides, of course, a hundred thousand prayers.🙏)
I’m such a homebody, as you all know, that if I “HAD” to be “quarantined” ~ “stuck” on a desert island so to speak, I could not think of a better place than Home! Where all my best things are. Tea, candles, dishes in soap suds, clean dishtowels on the stove, jars with red lids, peanut butter cookies in the oven, Beatrix Potter people on the window sill, Jack in my drawer, Joe at my side. All the good stuff happens here anyway. It’s trouble out there. Home is the only place we are in charge! 
Was “Zooming” with my English Girlfriend Rachel the other day (*see Zooming below) . . . we were comparing what we’re going through to what the Brits went through during WWII, when their “pandemic” fell out of the sky and blew up houses while people were sleeping ~ which they lived through every day for SIX years. How DID they sleep? No sugar, butter, eggs, coffee. No gas. Everyone like sitting ducks. Sons and husbands in danger, far from home, not heard from in months. Ray gave me a book called Nella’s War, an actual diary of an everyday English woman during the war and what I learned: we are so lucky, even now. Staying home? Lucky us. Whatever happens, we’ll figure it out. If they could, so can we.
What if, the way this went, we were all quarantined in a 
dentist’s chair? Right? Way worse! Or a highly air-conditioned department-store bathroom, locked in with a bunch of strangers and only two plastic chairs? There is no nicer place than home especially when bombs aren’t falling. We LOVE our own beds, we LOVE the musica that plays here! No strange dentist-chair music in THIS house. I’m stealing daffodils from the garden, and forced a tiny stem of cherry tree. If I didn’t have a garden, I might dress like Joe and take a walk on our deserted street with my scissors.
We are like this. We go out to stare at the garden before we go for our walk and holler to each other. “Joe, over here!”
SO exciting! (Norman Rockwell was clearly one of us!)
SEE? Happening all over. New life. Isn’t it thrilling?
I’m so proud of everyone. The whole world is on a mission. We’re in it together. “If you can’t do what you do,” said Bon Jovi, “do what you can.” And so we do.
If we want to have breakfast for dinner, we can and we do! There is something so cozy and comforting about pancakes for dinner. Then we watch two series on Acorn, Brokenwood Mysteries, and 800 Words. We are loving the creative art of cooking more than ever. Dinner is like an event, what are we making? Let’s have PANCAKES, let’s put bacon in them … yaaaay!
I wasn’t always a good cook ~ no one is BORN that way, not even Julia Child, who said, “Before I was 32 all I did was eat.” And as you know if you’ve read my books Fairy Tale Girl and Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams, I didn’t just burn up one stove, I burnt up two.😱 But cooking was right smack in the middle of the road I took searching to find my passions and the things that would make me happy in life. Cooking was like a secret way of giving. I could make people happy when I did it.❤️
It was my own little pandemic that brought me to this cottage in the woods on Martha’s Vineyard. When my life was 
suddenly thrown into reverse, I went inside, in more ways than one. And it was in that quiet where I learned most everything else that’s brought me to now. Sometimes we need a little pandemic in our lives to help us see the road. It’s awful when it’s happening, you fight it in the beginning, but later, if you survive, if you aren’t allowed out too soon, you think, Oh, thank God.💖
What helps the fear? Little things. Naps with kitties, tomato soup, scrambled eggs, a good book, bubble baths, MEDITATION, finding new recipes, cleaning out a closet, 
maybe writing that book you’ve promised yourself you would do. Are you homeschooling? You could teach history the fun way. Watch with them: Darkest Hour, Schindler’s List, Amistad, Lincoln, Amadeus, or Chaplin. Show them where on the map these heroes were born, or where the story took place. Make it all real for them. Google “Best Silent Movies” and show them the world of their great grandparents. Check out my Movie List ~ maybe you have a budding vintage-movie buff in the family. Have a Family Book Club: read out loud every night: The Diary of Anne Frank or To Kill a Mockingbird. Take questions. I have a Book List too, tried and true, guaranteed to bring a laugh
or a tear. Get online and fill out the Census. Teach good citizenship and explain how doing this makes your community strong. Teach them how the stock market works (😳I’m still trying to figure it out!). Paint a bedroom. Check out TED TALKS, so much genius free for the taking (watch Isabel Allende speak passionately, brilliantly, about Passion). Create a photo wall in your bathroom. Make a homemade pie crust. Teach kids how to iron, knit, watercolor, embroider. There are lots of embroidery kits and fill-in family cookbooks in our web store (make Christmas presents). Get out that hammer and nails and Google How To Make a Bird House. Every lesson for everything you’ve ever wanted to learn is on Youtube. Things you never thought of, things you hardly ever have time for, you do now. Who knows? You might stir up some passions!
My own personal divorce-pandemic took me here. From California to a small island and this little house . . .
Where I cried myself to sleep and healed with kittens and Potato Pancakes.
A recipe I then put in a cookbook I wrote at my dining room table . . . 
. . . that changed my life and gave me a future and made my pandemic worthwhile, all six years of it.
I never imagined this book would turn 30! But it did. And it got a makeover, not just the cover, but there are lots of new recipes. I’m thinking you or a friend or a relative may 
be needing a little extra TLC right now, a little bit of vintage charm in a topsy-turvy world ~ so I’m putting this watercolored, hand-written book full of homey recipes, 176 pages of how-to’s, and family stories, on sale ~ each with a signed bookplate inside.❤️ For the whole month. And don’t worry, I am living proof . . .
None of us know what the future will bring, we have lots of these books in stock right now, it would be better not to have them lounging in a warehouse somewhere, they should be out there, spreading their homey goodness, doing what they do best, inspiring family togetherness with potato pancake, carrot cupcakes, linguine in clam sauce, Gazpacho, my dad’s garlic bread, stuffed pork chops, enchiladas, rainbow jell-O, onion pudding, German pancake ⬇️ . . .
. . . the way to fry an egg so the yolk is
still soft, bubbled up with crispy edges . . . bean soup, cranberry tea cake, caesar salad, twice-baked potatoes, lemon chicken, bread and butter pudding, chocolate eclairs . . . and so much more…
As my parents did and taught us, if you want something bad enough, you just make it. 
I just checked my cupboard, I have three Heart of the Home’s here on the Island, which I’m going to give away to YOU. All you 
have to do to win one of these books is scroll to the bottom of this post where you’ll see a bunch of tiny little words, including the word “comments” … click there, leave a comment (anything, so the blog registers you there), and you’ll be automatically entered in the drawing which we’ll do next week. ❤️ I’ll email the winners and personalize each book before it goes out. Little something to look forward to.
Here’s another small treat you can make yourself ~ extra simple made with boxed mix, but outstanding for kids ~ and you’ll feel pretty proud too.
One of our Girlfriends sent us her version!
What else . . . Oh yes . . 
No doubt you have figured this out, but just in cases, our Mother’s Day Tea Parties in Duxbury have both been canceled, until, we think (and hope), September. I’ve been saving my old paintbrushes and pencil stubs and making bookmarks to hand out at the signing . . . which means there will be more by the time this happens! See? It’s all good. I’ll announce the new dates when I get them.
Another 2021 Calendar preview, it’s April! Just a reminder, we will be placing our calendar order with the manufacturer on Monday. Hopefully you have yours on order . . . but if not, if you are going to want either the 2021 Photo Wall-Calendar or the regular Heart of the Home wall-calendar, now is the time to get them. Nobody knows WHAT is going to happen to the stores that usually sell them, our manufacturer may make HALF as many this year as last, we just want to make sure our Girlfriends get one if they want one.💞
I’m sure you’ve heard of ZOOM, but if you haven’t let me tell you . . . it’s like an on-line conference call . . . I 
have used it twice now . . . once with seven girlfriends here on the island, (we had our TGIF, with cocktails, via Zoom) … and the other with Rachel and Paul with us here and them in England (and more cocktails). It’s free! It’s easy! If I can do it, anyone can. And it’s highly satisfying. A safe way to reach out and say I’m still here and I love you, you can see the love-light in their eyes. You can even kiss the screen. You’ll see. Excellent invention.💞 
Another especially fun family project is Ancestry.com … get your DNA done and start working on your family tree . . . my sister and I do it over the phone together . . . it’s wonderful to feel your family connected to the world, puts a new sort of foundation under you, deeper roots in a world of curiosity and investigation! Shelly finds a name from 1736, and I’m practically screaming the WOW-ness of it into the phone! We get totally tangled sometimes saying such lunatic things as this, “No that’s Irene’s DAD’S father’s brother’s OTHER son!”
Well, look! It’s light out. Blustery and cold, leafless ~ once again, have to say, right now real world is isn’t quite as wonderful as it is in this cozy house . . . look, my agapanthus are blooming in my studio window! Birds and squirrels are feeding outside the kitchen window ~
It’s as good as it can get. One last thing before I go . . . one thing you must do. Turn off the news. Do not listen to daily numbers. Don’t hear strident voices all day. If you’re at home, following the rules, and staying inside, you’re already doing EXACTLY what you’re supposed to do to protect your medical centers and your amazing healthcare workers (under so much stress it’s unfathomable), from YOU. Blessings and prayers for them, and also, for our first responders, grocery-store people, volunteers and delivery people, who put themselves on the line for us every day. Social distancing is working! Too much negativity will make us as sick as the virus does. Just keep praying, and go World-War-Twoing through to the other side. Think of magical words like delphinium (say them out loud, pure poetry), hollyhock and foxglove. Lily. Pansy. Because it won’t be long.
💞
Don’t forget to leave a comment for the book! Would love to hear how you’re doing!💞 Oh yes, I have a new bookmark for you! You can see it below. Just click HERE and print it out either on card stock, or do it double thickness. From me to you . . .
It’s completely spring in Texas and we love looking out our windows at the trees blooming! You will get there soon!
Glad you are taking care of you two! – well, and Jack
Stay safe. Thanks for sharing your life.
Thank you Susan. Isn’t it wonderful that we have Zoom, Face Time, and Hangouts plus maybe more ways to communicate with our loved ones. Because we are semi retired we aren’t feeling too closed in. We still get our walk everyday, keeping our distance for other walkers. Our son is so happy to do the shopping for us – gets him out and helps with boredom.
It’s getting warm enough to get out to the yard and clean up from winter.
Easter and Passover will be very quiet for all. Blessings to all. Take care of yourself, Joe and Jack. Sharon
What a comforting post. I have been reading more and I’ve found more joy in cooking, as I don’t feel pressed for time. But, you’ve reminded me to pull out my crochet basket and continue working on my afghan. Thanks for sharing! Be safe and have a happy Easter.
Your blog always lightens my spirits, and never more than now! Homebodies, unite!
Susan,
Ordered myself the 30th Anniversary book. Love the ribbon bookmark. Love the paper one, because so many times there are several recipes you are pondering. It has been nice to flip through both the old and new one. Thank you. I had a surprise just a few weeks ago. A single yellow tulip from bulbs planted years ago, and only sharing the green leaves heralding spring. But patience and all the stress in the world, out popped a single yellow tulip just when needed the most.
You, Jack and Jack continue to take care of each other.
Love and bunny hugs,
Shirley
Susan, I too have been thinking about those dear people in England during WWII. So hard to imagine how they endured the stress and anxiety. And I share your sentiments about loving my home. I have what I call My Tiny Garden and Spring is pushing its way up with Columbines and a few other Spring bulbs. Easter is coming! God Bless you and yours!
I work for a merchandising company as a representative for Procter and Gamble. I work the stores weekly and one of my tasks is to record all of the “out of stocks” so P+G can keep a record of product needs.
You could say I am your “link” to toilet paper!
OMGoodness, you shouldn’t tell people that, from what I hear, you will be inundated with questions!😂 So, how’s supply going?🤣
It is sort of an “ebb and flow”. I will find nothing in one store and a couple miles down the road another store will have stacks of product. I think it has to do with how some people just won’t bother to shop outside of their neighborhood.
Word to the wise; if you want it badly enough you will have the ambition to go hunting! That is basic advice for all products.
By the way, I didn’t mention which state I live in but this advice pretty much carries over to any location since we are an international company and see these varying supplies everywhere.
Yes, I’ve been telling my sister to look for the smaller grocery stores … and also to cruise the parking lots before going in, make sure there aren’t too many cars!
HI Susan, I am doing one sketch a day for the duration (and further I hope) and today I chose to sketch Joe with his bandana and beret. I wanted to send it to you but this format won’t allow a “paste” so I’ll see if there is some other way. It was fun, and we need some fun, right?
I got it!!! Wonderful! I love how you caught the twinkle in his eyes! I’ll put it in the next blog! Very fun Barbara!xoxoxoxo
Thank you so much for an up-lifting blog post. As I sat yesterday morning (Sunday) at home, waiting on our on-line church service, it was so refreshing to here nothing but the birds singing outside. The quiet has been totally refreshing in my little slice of country life. If nothing else, this pandemic has given the world a pause, to reflect on the really important things-family, friendships, values, etc. And, it has been really good for the earth since a couple of cities worldwide now have clean air and cleaner water. If we look, there is always something good happening around us.
Always.
Susan, thank you for the great ideas and the joy we can bring to others each day!
Susan, thank you for great ideas on how to bring joy each day!
Hi Susan, Didn’t get to read until this AM as we ‘Worked’ the weekend clearing the Winter Debris from the Beds and Borders..we are perfectly ‘Safe’ outdoors here on our Farm in Western PA. and Life pretty much is the same with Garden Preparation, Tree Trimming, and cleaning the Snow Blower, and Snow Shovels for storage..we had Salt left-over and will try to store it..It is Amazing to see the ‘Greening’ every morning, as we take our Coffee to the 50’ patio ( coat over jammies) and marvel at the crazy Robins building those messy nests and splashing madly in the Bird Baths. The Ground Hog family is back in the Meadow, Spring Birds are returning to the Feeders, the ChipMunks are challenging the 4 ( indoor) Cats watching with switching Tails from window sills…God is in His Place..The World will Survive and perhaps have learned an important Lesson..Love to You, Joe and Jack Thanks for Sharing your Lovely World..Dixie
So so so needed this today!!! Be well xoxo
I love your blog! It’s absolutely perfect and I look forward to reading it. Thank you for all of the wonderful inspiration you share with us! And I love all the artsy bonuses too.
Oh! Thank you for such good cheer! And all the Spring goodness. This helped to lift my spirits and give a little bit of “Keep calm and carry on” grit. Love, love the Norman Rockwell painting, and the agapanthus blooming. May your little home continue to bless you and others.💕
Dear Susan, thank you for your blog posts. I look forward to receiving each and every one in my email. They are always uplifting and comforting. I’m glad to hear you and Joe are staying safe. I’m in New York and the numbers escalate daily. Thank goodness its spring here, the birds are chattering like crazy, the forsythia are blooming, the cherry trees just popped and oh, the beautiful daffodils and hyacinths are blooming. Such beauty to focus on during this time is nature’s blessed gift. Thanks for reminding us of the beauty in the simple routines of home that nourish our spirit. A timely reminder, There’s no need to roam. Stay at home. Best Wishes
My friend in California is a huge fan and suggested I read your blog…enjoying it. Thank you
Happy to meet you Sherry!
Thanks for the encouragement – I needed a boost today. Thanks also for the heads up on ‘800 words’ Looks like a series I could get into.
Dear friends Susan and Joe: Pray you both and all your families stay safe and well! It will all be well and pray it will be soon! Western North Carolina is deep into spring break and in my isolation my spirit soars. I just finished 2 batches of violet jelly from the precious wild violets in my yard – clean of any hint of insecticide. Picked 8 cups of petals in all. Petals only. Labor of love! Soak each 4 cups of petals in 4 cups of boiled water for 24 hours. Drain the water, pressing all the water you can off by the petals. Boil this liquid with 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice and 3 cups sugar til sugar is dissolved. Add one box of powdered pectin and boil 2 minutes. Pour into clean, sterilized jars. Put on lids. Cover with water and boil for 5 minutes. Take out and ensure they seal when they’re cooled. Delicious. Beautiful purple pink color. Spread on homemade biscuits, toast, or cornbread. Enjoy! Susan your blog makes my day! Thank you!!!!!
Truly a labor of love! Beautiful. Perfect reason to bake biscuits . . . Thank you so much!
Dear Carolyn, Thank you for the Violet Jelly recipe! Violets on home-baked biscuits sounds delightful! Like something Anne and Diana would have been served at Echo Lodge, Miss Lavender’s stone cottage. I am going to copy this and tuck it between the pages of Susan’s Heart of the Home ~ Notes from a Vineyard Kitchen ~ maybe between the last pages where there is lots of room surrounding a single heart. You have started something, because I want to do the same with other delightful, original recipes the SB Girlfriends occasionally share here.
So good to read your message from Home. My college freshman and I have been doing lots of baking and cooking together during this time at home. She and I are both Homebodies as are her brother & dad so we really are enjoying this time at home, although I know she would have loved to finish her freshman year at college on campus. I’m rereading Isle of Dreams and working on a crochet project in the evenings.
I’m starting ZOOM meetings with my preschool class later in the week!!! Wish me luck!
Wishing you & Joe good health!!
Laura in Illinois
You will love seeing their little faces . . . it’s a great thing. Have fun!!!
Oh, Susan. For more than twenty years your books have kept me company as I learned to keep a home. I am so thankful that you are here today to remind me of what matters. And to remind me to turn off the news. Thank you.
And thank you for the chance to win a book. I would be so delighted.
Thank you Susan, for the sunshine of your post which brightened up my day today. <3
Thank you Susan for your words..and positivity too..it just is oozing out from the blog..it’s all been so quick and so scary too..we need as you say to be so thankful we are at home..making Easter trees..putting everything out even though it’s going to be just me seeing them this year..except I have taken photos for the family to see..but no one will be able to visit..just like you too in the States.
Am praying that there will be an answer .a miracle that begins to slow this awfulness down…our spirits are entwined as we think about each other…and neighbours provide that support we need. Thank you and sending so many joyful and hopeful Easter wishes..
May the sun shine upon us casting away these shadows..
God bless you both and keep safe
Sandra xxx in Birmingham uk
Dear Susan, I love your work and am so happy to have discovered it through our mutual admiration of Gladys Taber. I would be proud to share her Birthday too! If I could add something that is weighing heavy on my heart right now, in addition to our wonderful medical workers, grocery store clerks, first responders, and delivery drivers please don’t forget all the millions of people across the country working in factories and warehouses. Many are helping the supply of essential products and services continue. However, most states are following the federal definition of “essential” businesses which is extremely broad in the areas of manufacturing. My wonderful hubby gets up everyday to work along side hundreds of other workers making products that are in no way essential to this crisis. Like everyone else in his position unless you get sick you have no choice but to show up and keep working. Companies that put profits before people should be remembered after this is all over. We can show them with how we choose to spend our dollars that we don’t agree! Also email your Governor and Secretary of Commerce and tell them to enforce stricter definitions of what a truly essential business is. It’s not forever but right now it could help save the lives of so many people. Prayers and good thoughts to everyone and Happy Easter! And Happy Birthday Susan (and Gladys too)!
I could not agree with you more Brandi … “Companies that put profits before people should be remembered after this is all over.” It’s been the way of the world forever I guess, but these last 40 years of my life have been unbelievable. It’s one of the things I’m praying this time-out will highlight, so we can maybe make new choices. I’m so sorry. Praying for you, stay safe. xoxoxo I’m going to check out what our state is doing in that regard.
Hello dear Susan:
I feel the same way about all of this, so good to spend each day with my hubby!
We have been baking, cleaning, napping, reading and just having fun. We play cards with each other to see who will be the boss for the next day! So fun!
Thank you for your blog. I enjoy it so much. I went on a bus tour in October, and part of our tour was going to Martha’s Vineyard. Well…..of course the weather did not cooperate. I was so sad!!! Never fear, coming to Martha’s Vineyard is on my bucket list. One of these days…… Love you bunches! Wanda
Hello Susan, Girlfriends. hope you all are doing well. we’re okay here, busy as bees with spring cleaning (a thorough deep spring cleaning) and baking. been baking fresh loaves of bread, and pans of cinnamon buns for neighbors and our fire station across the road, plus sneaking in some fresh eggs for them as well. we just put the goodies in bags or boxes and leave them there, after knocking on the door and then leaving. Ed has been busy with putting a new ceiling in the henhouse and we are battling rodents in the henhouse and the barn, luckily we have the feed in metal cans, but honestly those pests are driving me nuts. thanks to our nasty neighbor and the transit camp across the road and all the garbage piled up there, we have tons of mice and rats…ICK!! bought of a huge bag of D-con poison blocks and put them in the pump shed and in the area where we store food for the chickens, none in the henhouse or anywhere where the birds or cats can get to it. I think its working, haven’t seen too much mouse traffic in the henhouse and usually I see a lot of it daily. so maybe we are making a dent in the rodent explosion here. lots of pretty flowers coming up, and we have had some good soaking rain storms so that’s good. love Joe’s face mask, I’ve doing the same thing and I had to take it off Saturday when I was shopping for groceries, I sneezed in it….. (how embarrassing)!!! think there were several people ready to run after I sneezed and I felt so silly trying to explain it was not the virus, it was hayfever and allergies. I felt equally sorry for the bank teller as he was depositing my check and he sneezes, into his hanky of course but the bank customers were ready to run out the door. I just told him “bless you and I have allergies too” then I go sneeze in Wal-mart… oh well. well off to get the laundry out to dry and another load in for washing. the sun is out and might as well use the clothesline a bit for drying. you all take care of yourselves, stay well and be healthy. sending bunny hugs and kisses and Easter wishes. hugs… 😀
Thanks for the heads up about World on Fire; just watched first episode online. Hoping to make a lamb cake for the first time this year for Easter; have had a mold (different from yours) for a few years, but haven’t felt up to the challenge until now. Happy Easter!
Sharon in Alabama
oops I forgot to remind everyone…Tuesday night, the pink full moon will be visible and it is a supermoon to boot. enjoy the lovely pink light tomorrow!!! bunny hugs…. 😀
👏 I hope we can see it . . . we’ll have sun today! A good start, but lately it turns to clouds very quickly!
that’s pretty much the same for here, but last night was clear and we have sun today and warmer temperatures so hopefully tonight will be sparkling clear and we get a chance to see it. good watching. hugs…. 😀
Thank you for the uplifting, hopeful stories you share. I can’t wait to read some of the books and watch some of the movies you recommend.
Lovely and encouraging post – happy April!
Susan Branch, I would dearly love it if we were neighbors! I love so many of the same things that you do. And guess what? We have the same birthday! After 12 years of widowhood and living in a city, the beginning of March I was finally able to move back to the country into an adorable little cottage that has that vintage feel and look. Furniture and things I’ve had for years fit right in as if they were made for it. In fact two dear girlfriends, to whom I’ve gifted your books, said when they saw pictures I texted to them, that it reminds them of you! I’m so in love with how it all came together that I’m happy to stay in and “nest”. Thank you for your always cheerful, positive and inspirational blogs.
Happy Birthday Kim! I love the life you’ve made for yourself. You sound so happy. Enjoy your nesting. xoxoxo
Thank you and a very Happy Birthday to YOU Susan, along with a Blessed and Happy Easter!
Thanks SO much for the post! It’s always a bright spot in my day, but especially in these current times. So glad you are keeping well and safe. Happy Easter and Happy Spring to you and yours!
I made a bunny cake once when my kids were young – so fun! Thanks as always for spreading your good cheer and optimism.
Happiest of Birthday Blessings, Susan. Once again,you have so lifted my spirits. I know you touch many hearts and minds with blog,but it seems needed so much more during this pandemic. One of my very favorite movies ,Mrs. Miniver starring Greer Garson, always helps me through hard times.
Acting on my wishes SPRING HAS SPRUNG..We were a almost snowless (less than half a inch TOTAL) Winter and no Fall We are happy with the change and the Washington, D.C. cherry blossoms and our Azaleas are bursting forth with lots of color and yikes…the LAWN needs moving for the second time.
From our group to yours…Greetings and hope the Easter Bunny leaves lots of goodies for you all to enjoy..
Hello Susan,
April is my birthday month too, the day before yours. I love April and here in Seattle it is sunny and blooming like crazy! We have been staying in place for three weeks as well and it is so strange!There are more people in the neighborhood walking dogs or just walking at all times of the day than I have ever seen. All of us are socially distancing, passing each other with a look, smile or nod that says “we are in this together.”
As always your blogs are a salve for our hearts and minds. Simple joys are the best moments of life,
Julie
It’s like we were suddenly sent back in time, before cars … or before we all left home to work in the world. Love how you mentioned the look and smile that says we are in it together. So true. Working together for a common goal is, I believe, a human need that we’ve denied ourselves these last few years. Pray that it lasts FOREVER.
Hello there! So excited that you posted on your blog! I do enjoy them! I actually thought that I had already owned this book but after searching my bookshelves I can’t find it! So I’ll definitely be placing an order for it soon! Take care of each other!
So glad to read and see all the lovely things in your uplifting post.
Thankfully, we are still able to go for walks, and, my, the wee spring shoots are so encouraging.
You are so right, home (sanctuary) never looked better.
This too shall pass!
Be safe and healthy.
Thank you for the bookmark.
Hello from Arizona! You always look on the bright side of things! Your happy thoughts make me feel better.
Thank you for the deep breath! I cherish the time I get to spend reading your newsletters❤️ Happy Spring and a very happy Easter to you and yours.
I so look forward to your blogs. Also love the Willard posts. ❤️❤️❤️ I have loved your work for many years. You are are one of the most creative people I follow. Thanks for the chance in the drawing.. Stay safe and enjoy your shut in time.
Oh,my, as i read these comments i am feeling even more encouraged. we are meant for connection and loving and caring. Thanks for sharing how your personal pandemic helped preoare you for this. Blessings to you and Joe.
Terri Christl
What a lovely post to cheer us up in this difficult time. Thank you for helping us focus on the things that matter.
A Susan Branch blog post is a smile…well it’s a smile on my face! Love the positivity and hopefulness. I, too love Acorn TV…I’m deep into “A Place to Call Home,” and loving every second. Be well, and soon we’ll find ourselves almost longing for the slower pace and homey comfort of Social Distancing! Thanks for spreading cheer.
Thank you for the great blog post! Bon Jovi is one of my favorite musicians! Love that you quoted him! I hope this pandemic is over soon! I don’t like working from home, I can see some much more I’d rather do! Stay safe and healthy!
I’m a little late reading this but I wanted to make three comments.
1. This time of year (in Australia) depresses me usually, as Daylight Saving ends and we have to pull a jumper out. I know those who have snow for winter will laugh, but I love the heat. Reading about how everyone feels about Spring after a long winter lifted my spirits for the long winter we have ahead of us.
2. You mentioned watching 800 Words! One of my favourite shows and of course Aussie-made in gorgeous NZ. If you are looking for more of the same, try Packed to the Rafters or A Place to call Home.
3. My elderly aunt lives in a nursing home although she is not really in need of care. She has never taken to the digital world and after a brief foray into the smartphone world insisted on reverting back to a dumb phone. So, while isolated, she only has voice calls. She mentioned she is reading a lot, so my sister and I have arranged for a copy of A Fine Romance to go to her and we know she will love it. She is a kindred spirit.
Oh you are a sweetheart Fiona, taking care of your kindred-spirit aunt! There’s a quote that goes something like this: “Health is the thing that makes NOW the best time of the year.” Yes, loving 800 words, we watched all of A Place to Call Home … will check out Packed to the Rafters! Stay safe down there, xoxoxoxo
Can you make the potato pancakes with instant mashed potatoes? Haha 😉
Good question, I never tried, but I don’t see why not!
I always enjoy reading your blog. It a nice, relaxing and just plain fun. Thank you so much for adding joy to so many others’ day.
Loved your perspective on cozying up and enjoying this time of focus on our families and homes. When we compare it to what others had to do in WWII, most of us have it pretty easy (praying for the sick!!).
I keep checking your blog for new posts, it’s a sunny little spot in some very dull days of self-isolating. I have just started my first needlepoint, I’m still pretty slow but it’s finally taking shape! Thanks for the inspiration!
Always look forward to your Blogs thru your newsletter. Your blog arrived at the perfect time as Connecticut is heading to a peak in the pandemic in the lower half of the state closer to the New York border. Fortunately I live at the other end of the state and we have a much lower rate of positive tests and minimal hospitalizations. It is a nice change of scenary and conversation to see your art work and read your stories, a good excuse to turn off the news and CoronaVirus updates. The weather is finally giving us warmer days and sunshine which boosts morale. And watching the flowers and trees beginning to bloom is a wonderful site. Thank you for your positive thoughts and to welcome Spring. Happy Easter!
Thank you for your uplifting post and the wonderful photos. Happy Birthday to you! I have enjoyed many of your books, especially the handwritten text and artwork. I never did get that first one though. So I have just now ordered it.
Since many of us are staying home, it is a perfect time to armchair travel with you and Joe to England! A Fine Romance is such a wonderful read. When I was finished with it, I loaned it to my Mom so she could travel vicariously with the two of you also. She loved it! Thanks for sharing your art, recipes and life lessons.
Susan, so happy you gave Joe credit for wearing a scarf over his face for protection and credit for doing your shopping. I’ve been in, literally, for one month now. I shopped for two months and once in a while my kids bring me treats. Oh my, I have such great friends and neighbors Susan! Can you imagine them bringing me fresh sourdough bread, flowers fromTrader Joe’s, spagetti from my favorite Italian restaurant, Frugatti’s, Viet N dinners served on pretty white plates, dinners from grandchildren. It’s just great being an old lady during these times, I love it! Little baggies of cookies, candies, books to read! Tonight, I fixed left-over spagetti and the way I like it best is to put a little oil in the fry pan and fry it until its crispy! The best ever left-overs, I tell you! Well, stay safe on the little island and stay cozy within your homes with Joe and Jack! See ya soon!
Crispy spaghetti! A girl after my own heart. I’ve always loved fried spaghetti!
Susan, thank you for your words of encouragement and sunshine during this tough time that we’re all going through right now. And to all of our ‘sisters’ who are reading this, bless everyone and stay healthy and safe!
Happy Easter to everyone!
It is so reassuring to read your blog. Thank you for sharing your light and love with us.
Thank you Susan! You are so funny-Joe getting ready to rob the grocery! I love it. I appreciated the bit about homeschooling, oh and the bunny cake! I am in my fifties and I don’t know exactly which one , but for one of my childhood birthdays my mama made me a bunny cake just like that. I’ve never forgotten it! Bless you and stay well!
Such little things mean the world to children, we don’t ever forget them.💞
Love your blog, Love your book, I LOVE You!
In your posts I find humor, comfort, sweetness, warmth and delight.
It’s amazing, thank you!
Such an uplifting and calming post….thank you!
Being home, can make many long- buried memories emerge, to savor once again, e.g. the picture of the egg with the curly egg white edges …I grew up in Michigan with eating eggs like that, but of course they were fried in bacon grease. And the Norman Rockwell’s painting of the man, excited to excited to share new flower growth popping up….I only have a patio, but love watching my bulbs emerge this Spring. Tulips and birds are appearing on schedule, We will get through this. I would love a copy of your updated book. Have most of all the others
Susan, Thank you so much for your blog. It is very comforting to read the comments also. and realize everyone is more or less like me. I am retired and live alone in my dear to me home. Keeping busy as usual reading, cooking, working in yard and cleaning. My son who lives close by does our grocery shopping. He calls if he needs help. He is getting quite good at it! Have no t v, and only listen to brief news on radio and look at local news on internet once a day.
Hi Susan! Love your blog. I plan to bake the Bunny Cake.
Take care. Be safe.
Charlotte Moseley
thank you again for your uplifting encouraging comments …as always so appreciated. All the books I have written by you are in my storage unit in Oregon…i have read them many times and wish i had them here in Hawaii where i now live caring for my Mom. I long to read them again as they would be perfect for this time. So i look forward to each of your blogs and wait semi-patiently each month. can’t tell you what your sharing means to all of us…thank you and blessings to you and yours Susan! xoxo
Happy Birthday Susan! I have an April birthday too, the 19th. It falls on Easter occasionally as well. It makes me feel so special when it does, so I wish you joy!
Thank you for your blog. Such a blessing in these surreal times.
Happy almost Birthday Maureen! Thank you!
Susan, I found this poem on a blog and I’d like to share it with our Kindred Spirits here:
and then the whole world
walked inside and shut their doors
and said we’ll stop it all
everything
to protect our weaker ones
our sicker ones our older ones
and nothing
nothing in the history of
mankind ever felt more like
love than this
CD
My son grounded me in the last week of February. Since then he has brought me milk, bread and fresh produce from the grocery. Now he is bringing me medications from the pharmacy. I lost the sight in my right eye several weeks ago and my son is driving me to the doctors’ offices wearing a N95 mask for my protection.
There are earth angels on this planet caring for us–doctors, nurses, essential workers, volunteers, neighbors, friends, family, daughters and sons.
We are blessed and most grateful.
Yes indeed. And thank you for those beautiful words. xoxo
Susan, your blog posts are truly a bright spot in my days. Especially now during this quarantine when I’m feeling a bit down. I’m printing out the bookmark today. And thank you for a chance to win your book! Many blessings to you, Joe and Jack…stay well and healthy. xoxo
Thank you for bringing so much sunshine into my life. I look forward to reading each of your posts.
I always feel more peaceful after reading your blogs because they remind me of the joys of noticing beauty in the small things around me and the wealth of learning that can happen in any circumstances. Thank you!
Just the beautiful words I needed today. We are farther south, so Spring is well and truly here, and we are spending time getting little seedlings out from under the growlights in the basement, and setting them out in the herb garden and vegetable patch. What a luxury to have all our usual meetings and gatherings cancelled so we have time for the things we love to do.
My post of a few days ago seems to have disappeared. What I wanted to say was that I have loved “Nella Last’s War” for years now, and have also enjoyed the other books of hers. If you like her book, you would also like “Mrs. Milburn’s Diaries”. She was a lady living near Coventry and her diaries began in 1939 and ended in May 1945.
I’ve already ordered your “This Old House” calendar. It will be perfect in my pseudo 1940s kitchen. I have an O’Keefe & Merritt stove made in 1949, the same year I was born! I have to light the burners with a wooden match whenever I need to heat up the tea kettle. It brings back memories of my grandmother’s house.
Happy Birthday!
Ask Alexa to play Birdsong Radio- so relaxing!
I do not speak to Alexa. I hear she is a nosy little blabbermouth! 🤣
Congratulations on finishing the calendars!! Yippeee! Go play outside now! 🙂
You posted a picture of your purple agapanthus— do they grow well on the Island? I noticed lots of them (white mostly) when we visited my sister-in-law in the Los Angeles area not too long ago. They are beautiful!
I pre-ordered my photo calendar just yesterday. I was a little behind. So glad you made that available.
After we moved my oldest daughter home from college last month, she and my youngest daughter decided to switch rooms for a fresh start. They spent their long spring break cleaning out closets, sorting things into trash/Goodwill piles and then painted both bedrooms! They had so much fun and their rooms turned out lovely! Ordinary (powerful!) arts of homemaking!
Thanks so much for your post, Susan!
They can’t tolerate cold winters, so no, they would not grow here, we brought ours in from the garden last fall and kept it inside all winter. I didn’t know if it could survive that, but they’ve done very well and keep blooming! Thank you Valerie!
Hi Susan,
Thank you for putting a little joy into our lives during this most unusual of times and helping us to see the everyday beauty all around us!
As Susan has posted her little Beatrix Potter figurine in this post, I thought that it would be good to note that a new book has come out SAVING THE COUNTRYSIDE about Beatrix Potter and her life…
Here is the Amazon link: smile.amazon.com/Saving-Countryside-Beatrix-Potter-Rabbit/dp/1499809603/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Saving+the+Countryside&qid=1586275825&sr=8-1
Early Happy Birthday to you! Our family has two bdays in this month; I was daydreaming about a drive by birthday celebration…Today is a slow one for me. I’ve been sewing face masks to give away (94 and I’d like to sew 100) & finished bottling our maple syrup that we collected on our hill this early spring (mud + snow= maple syrup). I’ve run out of bottles and am waiting on a couple cases to arrive soon. Keeping my fingers crossed. Making banana bread sounds nice. Or a Quiche Lorraine. Or egg salad sandwiches. Worrying about our family doesn’t help quell the tsunami of doubts and fears; Bon Jovi got it right and I’m doing what I can. Thanks for the sunshine into our lives.
I just love the Easter Bunny cake! I might just make one this year 😊 stay safe!
Hi Susan,
A day with your blog is a day with sunshine. I received your Birthday Cup yesterday. I treated myself to one. It is so pretty Made me think it was my birthday(actually it’s in February) I think i might have all your books but would love having another. I could give it to a friend and introduce them to Susan Branch. Stay safe Wash your hands And remember we are all in this together.
Happy Birthday to you, Susan! Thank you for brightening up our world!!
Darling Susan Branch,
You are a light in the world.Not just now, when we really need the light, but when as individuals, our own light needs the wicks trimmed. Our daughter is an ICU nurse here in Montana.She has a strong heart, and I know she will be fine. We will all be fine I think.Stronger for sure.
You my dear are a Sequoia loving hopeful heart.Thank you, from my heart.
Judith Hinchey
I’m happy to think it’s not as bad in Montana . . . I pray. And that it stays that way. Blessings on you and your daughter for what she is doing. xoxoxoxo
Susan, you are escorting me through the English Countryside these days. Thank you, it is dreamy and wonderful. I’ve ordered a few books you suggested as you were making your voyage across the seas, again, thank you!
In this time of uncertainty your words are sweet and lovely. In my day, there are so many thoughts that come up that revert back to your books.
My twin daughters live on the island; they grew up there. They were born on an Easter Day in 1991. It is only every 11 years that my Easter Babies have their birthday on Easter. I’ll think of you this Easter as you celebrate your day!
One of the girls is in the process of moving to a new small home just off Franklin St. It so much reminds me of your little “first” Vineyard home. I told her that when she grows out of it; kids, more animals, I may have to take it over! Blessings to you, stay well, stay safe.
Happy Birthday, Susan, on Easter, April 12th. What a honor to share your birthday with the celebration of our Risen Lord Jesus Christ!
As usual I totally enjoy your newsletter. Thank you for using the gift you’ve been given to brighten so many lives, including mine!
“You are so much sunshine in every square inch.” – Walt Whitman
Blessings to you this Spring day! Beth Barnat
Enjoy your Birthday, enjoy your walks, enjoy the signs of Spring. The pandemic craziness will end, and with any luck, we will remember many of the lessons we learned, both as individuals and as a society! Stay well!
I can’t tell you what reading your blogs & I just got another of your books, have meant to me at this most SCARY and uncertain time. I do suffer from anxiety and reading is helping me cope so much better. My name is Susan as well and I have always felt an affinity with you b/c I took a watercolor class and I use different handwriting when I was young and did cards or pics for people or a card on a present from the many Bday parties we went to when my children were young🥳🥳🥳 I would have loved to be lucky enough to know you as a friend!
We are in Boston in a very different city now. Can’t wait to be able to visit Nantucket AND the Vineyard 🥰! We WILL get through this as well😷🥳🤓Stay well and HAPPY!🥰😘🤩
AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!🥳🎂🍷🥂
I’m loving spring in Arizona! I leave my doors open and let the fresh cool breeze come in thru the screen doors! Thank you for your fresh thoughts and positive attitude which buoy me up each month.
Thanks, Susan.
This post is a life saver and life savor in this critical time. I look forward to your updated, new edition. Reminders of my childhood in Michigan with eggs with curly egg white edges, Of course, fried in bacon grease, back then.
And the Rockwell painting of the man bending over to celebrate the new growth. Love his Art of real people.
I only have a condo patio, but nature and bulbs of baby purple Iris and baby daffodils, keep me looking for new “normal”Spring growth each day.
Thank for the color and uplifting messages you send.
I am almost finished reading Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams. I choose a quote to send to my coworkers daily to brighten their days as they work from home. Thank you for sharing your talents with everyone. Your creativity still inspires after all these years.
Blessings and many thanks,
Lori
Hi Susan, I made your cauliflower soup the other day and it was so delicious. I know I can always open one of your cookbooks and be fed physically and emotionally. xoxo
Hi Susan, Wondering if I have missed a post somewhere because I haven’t seen you talk about the book you were writing on England, Scotland etc. Is it finished?? Also, it has been a long time since we had a new cup! Are there any in the works? In this post you mentioned writing your Christmas Story. What does that entail? Sorry for all the questions. Please put me in the drawing for the cookbook. I have a new daughter in law I would like to give it to. Stay healthy and safe!
New home, new cookbook?
This was a great, uplifting post, Susan. Thank you.
You are the highlight of my day whenever I get your blogs. I just adore you and all the positivity you radiate! Thank you for helping us all through this hard time!
Thank you for reminding me to breath and ground myself when we are in the eye of a storm. What comforting words, your drawings are so beautiful, as well as pictures of Jack… I’ve been cooking from your cookbooks for about 25 years and now my daughter is cooking for her family making her favorites from your recipe collection. Thank you. And Happy Birthday! XO
Thank you for your lovely blog. Reading it is a favorite part of my day!
You, Miss Susan Branch, are and have been my hero(ine) for years! How is it that you know just what to say and say it so beautifully!? I truly wish I could draw and paint the way you do so that I could capture my garden just as it is Spring-ing open! Last year I went onto You Tube and learned how to prune my Cecil Bruner climbing rose and what a SHOW I got! This year, it looks like it will literally burst into bloom on Easter Sunday – so Happy Birthday from California!
I too am an April baby – the 27th. 🙂
Thank you, Susan. You always say things so beautifully and it makes me go on about my day inspired to live life to the fullest. Truly, you are an inspiration.
Made the adorable bunny cake with my 3-year-old twin grandkids! Your words always bring me comfort as well as the words of Gladys Taber. I started reading her books years ago at your suggestion. You are truly a blessing, Susan.
Two Movies to add to your list: Heartburn the movie (I’ve read the book first) and a movie made in 1986 with Kevin Kline, Sissy Spacek and Bonnie Bedalia called Violets Are Blue. Didn’t receive a lot of fanfare – but it really is such a good little movie with great dialogue. Laura Branigan sings the song at the end and sadly, she never recorded it on any album so you can only hear it on youtube – it’s called One Day. Hopefully, “one day”, you will get to see the movie.
Stay well, Cat
Happy, happy birthday Susan! And Happy Easter too! My dear mom made me that same bunny cake for my fifth birthday, which happened to fall on Easter that year. Such a treat! It warmed my heart to see it here. Thank you for sharing the love of home and all things beautiful. Bless you!
What an uplifting post…….thank you.
Stay safe x
Hello Susan,
I am such a fan of your love of everything English, blog, books and life story. I myself had a heartbreak that turned my life upside down. Moved far away, got in touch with myself again, met the man of of my dreams. And now we have a lovely cozy little home and a beautiful little soul to raise. A couple years ago I stumbled across your Christmas book at a local resale. I love it so much. Our little bit is just 2 but I can’t wait to incorporate some of your magical ideas into our traditions. I have now a couple of your books and we have made different recipes. My Adam is a great helper in the kitchen, with prep and cleaning what he calls the “ma’am-nado” I leave behind. Thank you for your lovely words and way of looking at and appreciating the simple beauty in life. You come across as such a kind soul. Thank you for putting that out into the universe. Also, Happy Birthday!
I made Avgolemono soup for the first time ever and we loved it. Working from home, cleaning closets, making bread, making masks. Planning the garden. Praying, being still. Sheltering-in and making our Shelter a peaceful place, a cozy haven for a while- while the world slows down to heal.
Staying home and stopping the spread here in Oklahoma . Love your blog and all your beautiful picture’s.
I keep telling myself this too shall pass !