Hi Everyone! It’s time to stop and put the kettle on! Get 
yourself a cup of something and come back so we can catch up. As always and forever, home is what you make it. And that’s true even and especially in the time of Pandemic! We’re living through a very sad time for so many, our friends, and neighbors that we love. So let’s put on a little MUSICA, and sing along, and for the lucky of us, all that is not so good, becomes a blessing.❤️ 
If you like this song, go tell your remote that you want to see the old movie Without Reservations with John Wayne and Claudette Colbert! Have you seen it? Sometimes I feel like I’ve seen every good old movie ever made . . . and then something like this comes along and surprises me and makes me wonder what else they’re hiding! The stars spend lots of time on the train (you get to see lots of 1946 scenery) ~ you’re listening to the theme song now ~ how could it not be darling? It’s free on TMC.
We took off our storm windows yesterday. The doors are open now, the sun is shining, it’s about 68º, the wisteria’s in bloom, so are the lilacs, and the sea breeze is blowing fragrance through all our rooms. Sleeping is heaven! We’ve waited months for this! Do you believe that purple? Mrs. Bowditch, the woman who lived here before us, planted that maybe 50 years ago and I thank her every spring.
Why does fresh laundry flapping in the wind make everyone so happy? I don’t know, but it’s true. I think because we’re in love with
And we know it when we see it, smell it, hear it . . . There’s no place like home.
Have I ever shown you my kitty graveyard? Where Girl Kitty (in fact, two Girl Kitties), Bill and Man Kitty are buried? The history of my world.
Every spring I go out and move the debris off their graves and sweep them. Sweet little corner of my garden.💞
Days get longer, sun rises earlier, casting long shadows through the morning windows . . . Makes me run to get the camera.
Everything I need is here.
The sun through the leaves makes these shadows move and dance like sea water with the sun shining on it. Gotta take a picture!
It is so quiet on the island . . . Notice how our walk hasn’t been “prettified?” It is as it always was. Woods and dirt roads, potholes and all. Just the way we like it. New spring leaves, wild blueberries, beach roses, and the sea.
I thought you’d like a little ocean view this morning.
We’ll never forget this Memorial Day . . . it’s never been this quiet. No one came! Except of course for these guys. The ferry went back and forth to the Mainland but stayed mostly empty. We are all so grateful that people are choosing to stay home. It’s strange and we miss them and the excitement they bring, but we’re just not ready for it yet.😷 When all this is over, we will happily welcome them back with open arms.💞
We hung our flag as we always do . . . Everyone did, the island has gone back in time to how it was before it was discovered! Very 
quiet. We’re still coping with the virus. We get a new case almost every day, our curve, small as it is, hasn’t flattened. No stores are open, no restaurants either. The Island has always been a little cut off from the real world, but now more than ever. Actually it’s a lot like it is in the winter, when we have it all to ourselves, only the sun is shining! So we do what we do in the winter, entertain ourselves! Only now, we can do it outside. Usually my friends are working and we don’t have much time for fun in the sun!
XOXO
It was my dear friend Lowely’s Birthday . . . so we decided to try having a party . . . we miss each other!🎉 We’re all extremely virus-aware, none of us go ANYWHERE, except maybe every three weeks to get food, fully masked and gloved! We want this thing to end as FAST as possible, so we do our part by staying home. We’re the lucky ones. So many MUST go out, I’m sure many of our girlfriends too, are needed to keep everything running and to take care of the sick. I join with the whole world when I say, on bended knee, thank you for what you are doing.💞 
For Lowely, I asked everyone to bring something with a candle in it, even the birthday girl had to bring her own “cake,” and this was hers, a beautiful triple-cream cheese! Isn’t it cute? A true “cheesecake!” Notice she put her ring on her candle? We all put our rings on what we brought (mine was a Honey Crisp apple with a candle stuck in it) so we could join in on Lowely’s wish, and blow out our candles when she did.
This is how we normally do it . . . the birthday girl (OR boy!) blows out the candles and we all get our wish.
I miss doing what I would do for a NORMAL birthday party . . . setting the table, and making actual food too!
This is the view from our upstairs window. I learned a lot. I learned that a circle seems right and looks good, but when a person is in her chair, the person straight across is THIRTY FEET away. That’s a little too much social-distancing. More distancing than social. Hard to hear anyone from 30 feet! Next time I’ll do two rows, with ten feet between them and stagger the chairs. This would work at a park or a meadow too … if everyone brought their own chairs, their own masks, their own food. The smaller the group probably the better. I’m looking forward to lots of one-on-one this summer.
So something awful happened. I accidentally whacked my very first cup, called Little Things, on the kitchen faucet and chipped it. Joe tried to sand it down and save it, but the first time I poured water into it, a crack appeared, and it sprung a leak. It was the end of that cup and, here’s the hard part: it was my only one!😱 I LOVED this cup (I saved it, might put a plant in it or some pencils).
It was like an old friend, being my first and all. And “Little Things!” The one on the left is paper, my first mock up. I went around for the last two weeks moaning. Then yesterday . . .
I said to myself, who is in charge here? And made the executive decision to RE-ORDER it. Now, of course they won’t let me order 
just one ~ they have a minimum order requirement. And I started thinking that because it was the first, maybe someone else wants one? I told Twitter I was reordering it, and from their reaction I realized perhaps my cup had sacrificed itself for the greater good.😇 With one life to give for her fellow girlfriends. So Little Things will arrive in our Studio in August and is up for preorder now. Because this is a re-order, I only got the minimum, which I think should be enough, I hope. This time I’m keeping two. Taking no chances.✔️
Then I noticed one of my other favorites, my Bluebird cup, and realized, eeek, I only have one.😳 Way too precarious a situation. So I ordered that one too . . .
I remember painting for it . . .
And then it came in and I loved it. And it will do the same in August, and I will love it just as much. And all because of the self-sacrifice of Little Things.💞 If you missed either of these the first time, we are getting a second chance!
And last but not least, a little preview of my new Christmas book due this August or September, depending on when I get it done. I have a deadline! When I’m not walking in the morning, or hanging clothes on the line, this is what I’m doing. Writing, painting, drawing, erasing, and re-drawing. Thank GOD in heaven for erasers.
Am I having fun or what? Painting jammies!
I have never painted Nipper before . . . he was our childhood dog. I can still hear my brother calling, “Here Nip!” before going out on his paper route. Isn’t he the PERFECT 1950s family dog? Sweetest boy in the world. I loved painting him. I never realized how feathery his paws were, or how long his ears were. You get to know people when you paint them.💞
DamPanic or no DamPanic, my dreams never change.💖
Bye for now dear ones. Back to work I go! I hope you are safe and sound🙏, getting some fresh air, and enjoying this one amazing life we were gifted with. Learn the words to that song, sing it around the house ~ singing makes your heart lighter.😘 
Me and Millie. Jack would have loved Millie.💞
Your blog, a little treat on a gray rainy day. Did my walk in the drizzle, which was fine by me, then settled in front of the computer and surprise!
What a treat we will have when the Christmas book comes out.
Think of all the smiles and sparkling eyes of those who will unwrap it, hold it, savor it and add it to their Christmas traditions. Joy to the world!
Take care of you, your working awfully hard for our benefit! Thank you for your daily encouragement during these very difficult times. Maybe by my 60th, life will be somewhat normal and I can do it up big with a trip to MV.( insert crossed finger emoji here)
Hugs,
Kim
🤞xoxo
Hello Susan – What a post to inspire us to make the best of this time. How nice that you can enjoy the peace of your home town. Feel the same here…it is a gift to have time to read, sew, putter around, bake WAY too much without having to squeeze it in to an busy schedule. Thank you for the tip on Without Reservations….we love old movies and I see it is on TCM stream, but since we get our TCM through our community we can’t get that that. SO….I checked our Publi Library and hooray…they have it! The library is closed now ( we are still in the RED zone) but this is another thing to look forward to when they reopen. Did you get your love of old movies from your parents ? My dad and especially my mom LOVED the movies…I think because they dated in the 1930’s and married in 1939 and they got to see all the great films in a real theater. My brother got the same movie bug and we have been known to call each other late at night and ask about an actor, or a film we are watching. The old movies are real gems! Looking forward to the Little Things mug…and may have to get the Bluebird, too – as one flits by on the way to my downstairs neighbor’s feeder each day…and stops by my window…I feel like I am in a Disney movie !!! Take care, stay safe, and be healthy!
I think I did get it from my mom … she started me with Shirley Temple, next came Fred and Ginger, and by then I was completely hooked! Such a cheery way to spend a day. Even the ones with murder in them are good, they don’t spurt blood all over the place, just fall of the horse and die with no drama!
I hope one day you will order more of the Jack in the Books mugs – I missed out on that one. Love reading your blog and books and am eagerly anticipating the next one!!
Hi Susan! I’m just wondering when your new book, “Enchanted” will be out? Also, are you selling copies of the first chapter since you had to cancel the event where you had planned to give them out? Thanks!!
I’ll get back to it when the Christmas Book goes to the printer! That event may soon become a giant ZOOM party . . . news to come on that! I’m trying to figure out how to get the first chapter printed in an affordable way. xoxoxo
I treasure each missive. What blessings you bring. ♥️ Annette
Thank you for being you! ♥♥♥
Hi Susan, thanks for this lovely surprise of a post – I have missed you, glad you are well and socially distancing! I liked the ocean view; last week I saw the Atlantic from Salem, how refreshing.
I feel so fortunate, we are healthy, including friends in the medical field, and although COVID19 has disrupted our lives, the top “thing” we miss is actual human contact with our loved ones; it’ll be a real celebration to finally be able to hug our friends and family, after the curve has flattened.
Pretty mugs (too bad about the chip, I totally relate to that)!
Susan, I am so excited! I missed out on the Little Things mug and have been so sad not having it. I have probably, roughly 20 or so of your mugs. I am elated! Thank you so much! I am still working through all this, I am the secretary at a metal fabrication company that is in the Critical Mfg sector, so we are still here! Wob you!! xoxo….Lori M from Washington
Be careful Lori . . . xoxo
I’m feeling this pressure today… “more” of everything; but your post has calmed me, sparked creative thought, and given me energy to accomplish what I need to do – today, tomorrow and in the short term ahead. I love the little details you “pop” in; and I treasure the Susan Branch items I have collected over the years…my “go-to’s” when I want to feel comfort in this time of being grounded.
Just preordered the Bluebird cup. So lovely! My Poppy made me a bluebird house at 94 years old. He passed away last year but the bluebirds keep coming in the spring. So grateful.
Your sis,
Jeannine
Ps. If you get in the cup reordering mood again, I need a Jack in Books so bad!
Have had many requests! Will look into that one!
EEK!!! Is Millie a mouse?
LOL yes, she was my little white mouse.
🙈
LOL!!! my cats would love Millie, my problem would be to keep them from chasing her all around the house. kind of like the little mouse that lives under dishwasher. 😀
Those two sweet statues are the best. My mouse, Matilda, was a tiny angel. I found her as a newborn in a rain puddle at Walgreens. I fed her with an eye dropper and had to wear three pair of reading glasses to see her tiny mouth! I loved her as much as the kittens I bottle fed, and was heart broken at her short lifespan.
There is a special place in heaven for animal rescuers.❤️
I’m with you Rae Ann! No way, no how! Lol. Now, my husband on the other hand used to have a pet rat, good thing it was before I knew him. That would have been a deal breaker. lol
Your letters are always so encouraging & uplifting! It’s raining …AGAIN …here in NC but your letter brought sunshine!
Loved the photos of the tea towels blowing in the wind on the clothes line .
Loved the cover for your Christmas book…brought back memories as my sister & I always got new pj’s from Santa .
Did your mother ever roll your hair in socks & tie off in a knot?..created great curls !
Not socks, but rags!
Awe! Millie! I had a black and white mouse named Patches and a rat named Gertrude (Gertie) when I was young. Years ago we had a white rat named Ratty – she was so smart and sweet! Stay Well Sue and Joe! Hugs, Christy (@KindredChristy)
Well, Millie was actually a rat, but it’s hard to say that. A white rat. Not a rat like they had during the plague. Just a sweet little pink faced white rat, more like a mouse. 😂
I had a series of pet rats when I was a girl and they make the best pets! So smart–much smarter than mice–and they also smell much better. They are actually very clean. I used to carry my rat around inside my jacket and sometimes would even sneak it to school for the day!
They were clean! And tiny, cute, sweet, soft, pink and white. I don’t think they were the same rats that ran through the swill in the London streets of 1665!
Definitely not! Bred by lab technicians who wanted docile subjects! 😀
Your mother is a Saint! 😅
😅💝
Thanks from the Netherlands Susan! I sat down with coffee and took time to read your lovely words…I am ready for the day now! Fortunately, it is spring in the Netherlands too, time to go out… 🙂 Greatings, Maartje
EEK!!! Was Millie a mouse???
The real truth is that she was a … gulp, rat. They used to sell them in pet stores. We loved them!
Hello! Pandemic or not, I always delight in your posts. I passed on the cups last time, but will order this time around.
Thank you for the gift that is always a joyful glimpse at New England and your life.
Thank you, Susan, as always. I will check out the mugs! You write about your Christmas book to come. What ever became of your second England book, Enchanted??? I was looking forward (to pieces) to adventures with your nieces!
It’s coming!
A delightful, uplifting post, Susan! Many thanks. 🙂
The wisteria looks so bloomin’ pretty.
Your cups are lovely. I especially love the bluebird.
Can’t wait to see your Christmas book with it’s beautiful artwork.
Thank you for this! I needed it today. I know so few people where I live who are taking this “dampanic” seriously.
I’m praying that they are right, and that this all goes away. I guess we’ll soon see. Stay safe Judy. xoxo
Thank you so much for another beautiful post! Your blog is a lovely refuge, and I love how you made the birthday celebration happen despite the current circumstances. Wishing you and your family health and happiness, all the way from Virginia 🙂
I’m looking forward to your book about your second trip to England. Now a Christmas book too! The jammies are cute. Oh so many things to buy. I better start saving.
Please bring back the autumn cup back , dropped mine last year and broke it .
Thank you for the blog, music, mugs, party view, your voice, and illustration. I will be excited to see the Christmas mug you are contemplating. I am excited for your new Christmas book too.
We are staying home and staying safe, sitting in the sun, walking the dogs…at home. We live in a small town just off island from North Topsail Beach. Our town has been mobbed with beach goers, tourists, renters. Yikes! We only venture out every few weeks to the next town over for groceries and wearing masks.
Back to packing now for our move in 2 weeks. 📚Just tied up books. Hugged and kissed my best friends, all of your books and cookbooks, plus a few others. Stay safe, Susan and Joe. ❤
Yikes Peggy! Stay safe!
I’m looking forward to your book about your last trip to England. Now a Christmas book too! So many things to buy. I better start saving. The jammies look cute!
Here’s another one Dawn, they’re coming through! xoxo
Everytime I do this I don’t see my comment. Maybe there is a delay. I think I have done this before and posted my comments twice. We’ll see.
Here it is!
Your blog is a nice little gift during these difficult times. I’m glad that some of us are doing the right thing by continuing to stay in and wearing masks when we must go out. That’s what it will take to get us through. Thank-you for sharing the precious little kitty cemetery. Looking forward to the new book. I discovered you through your beautiful original Christmas book! Love to you, Joe and Jack. Stay safe.
We too had a dog named Nipper. When we brought him home he cried for his Mom until I slept on the Kitchen floor with him that night.
AWWWW. 🐶
Oh my, the Christmas book paintings are wonderful, pjs and Nipper. Absolutely no pressure, but does this mean you are finished with A Fine a Romance #2? I’m just curious, and well, being a little pushy out of love for your work. The anticipation is intense.
I had a giant year long set back when my wrist broke. I’ll get back to it after I send the Christmas book to the printer!
Hello, Susan!
Would you consider a reorder on the “Jack in the Books” cup? My daughter accidentally dropped hers – it was her favorite! Your CA ladies were very helpful and gave me a number of shops to contact to try to find a replacement. All of them had sold out of that cup right away!
Enjoy this lovely time of year!
I’ll try!
Oh how this post makes my heart ache for the island! What a dream it would be to be there now, while it is quiet – the way I remember it. Last summer it was so so hectic. I know there is a very delicate balance and many businesses are facing an uncertain summer, financially – that breaks my heart. Go away Corona (but I don’t mind if some of the simple living sticks around). xo
P.S. Millie is adorable! My little rodent was Rodney the Squirrel and he burrowed in my neck just like that. He loved terrycloth robes (for climbing) and apples and peanut butter snacks.
Me too, let’s keep it simple. xoxo
God Bless you Susan. You bring such joy and peace to all your readers. Stay safe and healthy.
I’m so glad you are re-ordering the “Little Things” cup. I was disappointed that I missed it the first time around. Good things come to those who wait!
Thanks for the “pick me up” blog post! What would I do without you!
Thanks for the uplift. Even if there was no pandemic would still be inside because the temperature is hitting the triple digits this week. Ugh. Can’t wait for the new book.
Triple on the Central Coast???? Horrible! Yes, stay in! 🔥
Thank you for brightening my day! I SO needed this lift! And the Musica…
This is just what I needed today, Susan. Thank you!
I get something good from everyone of these blogs- a time or so ago it was the candles from the convent- they are really nice- burn evenly, smell wonderful, have a peaceful vibe (the sisters must add that…). This time it is the new/old cups! And that definition of a “gentleman”. Not to mention the usual beautiful pictures. I live in Encinitas CA, but go to RI in the summer to my daughters beautiful house on the Bay- don’t know about this summer though (boo hoo) so the pictures of the Island are wonderful to see. Thanks for these letters- they are heartening- “Joy is a disinfectant”- I heard Julian of Norwich say that clear as a bell to me in one of my morning meditations ha ha!
🤣
Making lemonade out of lemons, for sure. Thanks for this ray of sunshine blog post, Susan. And thanks for the chance to re-order those mugs. Heading in to your “store” now to place my order — an early birthday present for me, turning 76 on Friday.
Stay well and keep smiling!
Cheers,
Nancye T., Wells, Maine
Happy Birthday Nancye!🎉🎁🎊
Thank you for the wonderful letter…(blog). Your wisteria is beautiful. Spring is so welcomed especially during this time. Seeing the flowers, blue sky and green so bright makes us feel good. Loved your little kitty area with the kitty, mouse, pig..they look like my english ones. I have a rabbit in the ivy and a kitty on the porch. When reading that part I got misty..how we love our animals (babies). Your painting is Beautiful..all you do is beautiful. Stay safe…hug to you Joe and Jack..he loves you…I can see it in his eyes…xoxo
What a delightful letter on such a dreary day…so much rain. Loved the wisteria and the tea towels on the clothesline …..cloths dried outside have a fragrance of their own!
Seeing the upcoming Christmas book cover brought go back memories. My sister and I ALWAYS got a new pair of pajamas! (Did you by chance ever roll your hair in old socks then tie in a knot ?..we did )
Thanks so much!
I answered this before, but then again, maybe not? Anyway, not socks for me, but rags!
Love the picture of Nipper! Such a darling dog.
Except Jack would have called her dinner!
😻
You are amazing with your interest of ole movies 🎥 & ole songs, sweet clothes on the line & love of so many things , 🌗 even a little 🐭 mouse.
All the little gifts life offers us.💞
YES! I love both those mugs and I CANNOT WAIT to get them! O Happy Day! I am sad that your mug chipped, but HAPPY that we are all able to get them again! 🙂
It’s all working out! 💝
Oh, what a beautiful new Blog. Love every one of the pictures, and we’re both, Tom and I, looking forward to the new Christmas Book. I especially love the drawing/painting of your siblings in the 50’s. There were only two of us, but we certainly had the cowboy/girl hats, cap pistols and the lunch boxes with Roy and Dale on them.
I had to go into town this morning, and what a difference a week made. Many more trees in leaf, lots of apples in bloom, and some pots of flowers on our lovely little Ellsworth, Maine, Main Street, even if most businesses are still closed. Bright sunshine sparkling on the bays and inlets now that the heavy coastal fog has retreated back out to sea. It has lowered the fire danger a bit.
Yes! Windows open all night, just a nice quilt a friend made over us. Ahhhhh, this is wonderful. I so wish I could bottle this for all those who are so worried about jobs, children, grand children so they can have a moment of escape.
Please, please let our Republican Senators realize that this period in our history calls for an Historic revival of the Roosevelt’s New Deal. No populace with money to spend = no commerce, no matter what’s open. Well…Duh?
Oops, no Politics on such a fab day. Seeing our bestest Maine girlfriend tomorrow. First time since last November. We can’t hug, but we can do as you did for Lowley (I thought it was Lowey) sit in a semi-circle.
Sorry your cup mishap, but a chip in time = more “Small Things”. That’s a good thing, ain’t it 🙂
Mucho May to you, Dear Lady,
Debbie in sparkling Maine
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if they decided to really fix infrastructure? Those TWO dams breaking was waaaay too much during a dampanic!
Hi Debbie, I was reading your comment and saw that you are from Ellsworth, Maine. When we were children we went on a road trip and stopped in Ellsworth, Maine. Our surname is Ellsworth and we children thought for sure the town had been named after one of our ancesors. We bought one of those postcards that says, “Greetings from Ellsworth, Maine, the friendly city” where the name of the town is spelled out in capital letters filled with Pictures. That was in the early 50s so I imagine your town has changed a little. Lots of fond memories. Hugs, Elaine
Hi Elaine, I just saw your comment on Ellsworth. Sorry didn’t see it sooner. I’ll bet there is a ancestor connection with Ellsworth. Tom and I have traveled all over the US and many parts of Canada (which we adore, by the way), and we find so many connections. I’m a talker…will talk to anybody willing to talk. But how else do we find all those wonderful “stories”?
Last trip to Canada, we spent about a week in our camper right in the middle of Ottawa! What a Fabulous city!!! Please take care. Debbie in Maine
My fav cup is the bluebird one too! Ohhhh – I so miss LILACS and their sweet lovely scent blowing through the house on a soft spring / summer day. Don’t have any of those here in Albany, GA, lol.
Those lilac’s growing over the door are so beautiful! When I was a child my dad planted them across the back of our yard along a fence. I can close my eyes and see them! They smelled heavenly! I would pick some and put them in a vase in the kitchen for my mother. I truly envy you getting to sleep with a cool breeze and the smell of lilac! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for your lovely post. I was thinking about you the other day. How is your mother doing, if I might ask. I hope that she is feeling well, and that you, and everyone else is managing to stay healthy during the pandemic.
It can get ever so repetitive during such a state of isolation. I keep hoping for a brighter day.
I don’t have too much to offer in the way of interesting news. The weather has warmed up here on the mountain, and it is peaceful and quiet.
The California poppies are in full bloom on the meadows and I am still getting out once in awhile for a challenging hike.
One day at a time is all that we can do. It will be a brighter day for all of us in time. Stay well, everyone.
Things are definitely different these days! For my mother’s 91st birthday in April our family did a drive by birthday party with lots of horn blowing, signs, waving, and blown kisses! As usual, enjoyed your blog post. Always a breath of fresh air in so many ways! Thank you.
Lemonade from lemons! Thanks for your ray of sunshine blog post and also for the chance to purchase those lovely mugs….heading into your ‘store’ now to pre-order both for an early birthday present to me, turning 76 on Friday!
Stay well and keep smiling!
Cheers,
Nancye T., Wells, Maine
Thank you, Susan. There is so much sad news, and bad news, and so many people doing horrible things to one another and I needed your little corner of cheer today. I am watching the birds on the feeder as it blows a misty rain here, and I needed your sunshine! Here’s to loving home, and all things blissfully domestic, and to better days ahead. Thank you for being you. ♥
Really wonderful to hear your messages again. I lost track awhile ago for some reason. Still read all your books and reread again! Thank you for inspiring all of us…..you are truly an angel on Earth! Just had Mike put up a new clothesline! Stay well! Sheryle, the girl from Maine
Little things lead to great things…a great solution to a distressing problem. I like the way you think.
Thanks so much for your WONDERFUL blog. So enjoyable. I’ve already ordered “Without Reservations.” It’s already recording on DirecTV so I’ll watch today.
FUN!!!
Susan,
What lovely warmth and sunshine you brought to my day. Thank you so much.
Jane
Susan,
Thanks for reordering the mugs, I missed the first one, and also needed another bluebird one just in case!
Millie the mouse – too cute. My boys had a mouse and a rat. The mouse bit each of us but the rat was adorable. He loved to cuddle. Fluffy (the rat) even tried to cuddle with the cat but the cat was terrified of him!
Your blog/newsletter brightens even the most discouraging of days. I’m so very grateful for your positive words and images. Thank you.
Thank you, Susan. That was a lovely visit and a well needed escape to Martha’s Vineyard. We are also cozy at home enjoying the slower pace and anticipating a summer in our own backyard tending the garden and floating in the pool. No rushing about to try to see and do everything before summer ends, like we normally do.
Ha! I bet Jack would love him A LOT! I had a pet mouse too, so sweet named Mary. One morning I woke and she had escaped from her tiny cage. I quietly serched my bedroom so my mother (who hated her) would not know she was not in her cage. Suddenly I heard a horrible scream coming from my mother’s bedroom and looked out in the hall to see poor Mary the mouse running as if the devils were after her, straight into my hands she flew!
Thanks for the post. Made my day so much brighter
XO Mary
Hello Susan, Hello Girlfriends. well so far this lockdown is really old around here. our area is in phase 1 of reopening, but I am afraid a lot of the smaller businesses may never make it all the way back, this darned lockdown really hurt them. as for us, busy as always cleaning out the chicken coop and the barn and battling the rodent problem thanks to 2 neighbors and their selfishness. other than that we had a ball over Memorial Day, had a major water balloon fight with the next door neighbors, neighbors across the road, the firefighters at the fire station across the road and even got a couple of deputies in on the war. got those funny balloons you fill up on the hose, and they tie themselves off and you get about 100-200 balloons, I am sure you have seen them on TV. well we filled up about 4-5 laundry baskets with water balloons and gave 1 basket each to the neighbors and the firefighters and of course we had an agreement… no hoses (especially fire hoses) allowed and went at it. the firefighters turned out in their turnout pants and boots and the rest of us had shorts and t-shirts. we got soaked and we (accidentally ??) nailed a Sheriff’s vehicle with the balloons as they were coming through… well the firefighters did it and we followed along for the fun of it. the deputies got soaking wet and the next thing we knew they were grabbing water balloons and going after the firefighters, then they got our garden hose and blasted away…. yes the firefighters broke the rule and got out their hoses and the war was on and we all ended up soaking wet and laughing. since it was warm, the water felt cool but honestly I don’t think we needed hosing off with the fire hoses. that was our fun Memorial Day, wonder what kind of trouble we will get into for the 4th of July…. LOL!!! have a great day everyone, stay well, stay safe and stay healthy and happy. lots of hugs….. hugs…. 😀
Staying happy! 😂
we were bored with staying home and since there was no Boatnik, or boat races going on, or the carnival and Memorial Day parade we needed something to do. it was warm, we had been to Wal-mart and it just seemed like a good idea at the time. plus one of our local firefighters had been murdered by some creep ( the cops caught him and he is awaiting extradition to our county jail) so we figured they needed a lift and to know we all cared about them. they loved it and had a good time soaking all of us with their hoses and later that afternoon there was a drive by to show support for the firefighter’s family and for the firefighters.
Hi Susan, I don’t post much, but your newsletter always makes me smile.
Many thanks and much love,
Jan Igoe
Well then, I better say hello while I can!💓
We’ve been doing fire pits in the back yard for the neighbors! We’re so lucky to be able to stay home – taking this very seriously so that those who can’t stay home don’t have to worry about us!! We plan on going out about a month after everyone else does! Waiting patiently for Space X to launch – nice to see non covid coverage.
Yes, we’ll wait too … staying out of the way, keeping our hospitals as empty as possible, it’s easy for us to do … not so for everyone. ❤️
I had to stop mid-blog to jump on and order the Little Things mug. So glad I saw that before pre-orders closed! Thank you for taking charge and reorder that darling mug.
Power to the people! 😂
I love the idea of a spot in the garden for the pets that have passed on. I have them all in little wooden boxes in the house. maybe something to consider. Thank you for the inspiration.
Such a bright spot and always a comfort! I preordered my little things mug. My first one had a tragic end. ❤️
Always great to “visit” with you Susan! During this pandemic I have been watching some YouTube vlogs on subjects I like and I thought of you when I found Dainty Diaries. Young Irish woman with the best brogue who loves to collect china! Her Sept 21, 2017 is a tour of her china collection and May 24, 2018 is her visit to my favorite city of London, England. As someone who loves china I think you may find it enjoyable. Keep safe and enjoy your journey into summer, a summer unlike we have ever known before!
I’ll definitely look for it, thank you Joan! 💝
I used to have pet white mice too… until my cat ate one and my dad who found it said No more!
I’m wondering if darling face masks are on your To Do list. Or a pattern and several cute fabrics? If anyone can make mask-wearing fun it’s you.
Did you see the one we designed a couple of posts back?
Dear Susan,
Every time I see your Rose Chintz China I am so jealous. That and the laundry on the line. So beautiful.
I sing it again, 🎶 Yard sales! 🎵😘
You have the most beautiful blog in the world. Thank you!
Thank you !!!!!! It’s the beautiful eye of the beautiful beholder.💕
We’re all in this together. I have not left my drive, not even for a walk, since a week before our lockdown began on 23 March, other than for our very socially distanced VE Day afternoon tea party. That’s it! Other than that, I went to my stylist on 19 March and said “Cut it short as we dare!” and we did! My hair still looks tidy! As a vulnerable person, I don’t know when all this will be over for me. It’s a good job I like my garden a lot, and there’s plenty to do in it. I am starting to grow vegetables and fruit again. Every Thursday night at eight o’clock, I stand outside my cottage door and clap so hard that my hands hurt. It’s what we are doing to say Thank You to all our NHS, Carers, and all Key Workers. Take it from me, it’s an emotional five minutes.
~~~Waving~~~From Across the Pond~~~Deb in Wales xoxo
I believe you! You want to clap for the whole world of caregivers! Stay safe, Deb. 💖
Oh, Susan, I just found out that our Clap for Carers ends tonight, it’s the last one. I don’t know why, or any details, but it’s looking like it’s over. It was such a focal point for the week, a way of saying we care. I am sad, but will look for another way, even on my own. I wish I could have sent you some of the incredible feeling of energy that’s in the air when it happens. Spine tingling stuff of magic.
I’ve seen videos of some of it ~ it looks wonderful. Does this mean Wales is out of danger?
No, on the contrary, and we have a more stringent lockdown than England {as do Ireland and Scotland}. This is all to do, apparently, with the lady who organised Clap for Carers saying we’ve done it long enough. I think we should carry on, but that’s the way it is, I guess.
Go right on out there and clap anyway! 😘❌⭕️
Your posts always cheer me up! ❤
We live & learn with this new normal ! Thanks for the staggering 10’ suggestion . My knitting group is meeting at a park next week – I’m going to suggest it to the group .
We are lucky in that we are retired & don’t have to go anywhere… but miss social interaction.
Hoping we can get together with grandchildren on Father’s Day ….I pray .
Thankful for my daily hike on trails on our beautiful Mt. Rose ever morning , continue to knit Chemo caps for our community infusion centers, and draw Zentangle daily . So blessed & so grateful for our good health & my daughter & grandchildren good health as well . Love your posts always & the blue bird cup is precious! Hugs Penny
Nice post, dear Sue!
I’m sorry to hear your cup broke. I had a similar experience with my Little Things cup. One of those busy days when I washing dishes…not really paying attention.
I cannot wait for your Christmas book! It seems like its been forever and a day! I’ve always loved your first Christmas book. Memories of our childhood!
Hugs to you & Joe. xo
Thanks so much for the lovely update from the island. My sister in law and her son took a boat this morning to open the house in Katama for the season, although I doubt there will be any visits this summer. Right now, we have no plans to come up but maybe things will be better and we can make a trip for Labor Day. It is so sad that all of the yearly festivities have been cancelled this summer but we will all stay safe so we can once again enjoy each other’s company. Loved seeing your beautiful yard and the gorgeous Wisteria! That is really something special to look forward to every spring. I hope you and your friends and neighbors have a relaxed and restful summer and we all hope this sad time will be behind us in the near future.
Much love to you, Joe and Jack,
Peg💕😘
Your lips to God’s ears. xoxoxo
Your yard is so lovely. I’m glad you are enjoying warmer weather. With these months of isolation, the warmer days are a gift. Every small thing these days is a gift.
thank you dear Susan…..so nice to hear from you…..my watercolour class teacher, on Zoom today, said every day she sends someone a postcard, either a watercolour card or any card she has collected….I love that idea, that every day someone will get a handwritten note in their mail…..
youtube.com/watch?v=06ZswSBqqsY and here you go….since I can’t go to London next month, a friend sent the cast of “Mamma Mia” to me! I hope you dance around your living room, dear heart!
Regina, Seattle
GREAT dancing musica! xoxo
Dear Susan:
You’re not going to believe it (but, I suspect you will!!!). I just came in from outside, doing yard work and hanging out tea towels!!! I kid you not. I’ve been doing it all of my life, as my dear Mom did before me.
Anyway, I came in and put the kettle on. I did!! As I sat down and opened my mail, there you were saying “put the kettle on and turn on the musica” and I did just that with a huge smile on my face!!! What a tonic for the soul you are. The very best girlfriend!!!!
Thank you for another beautiful blog post – of course I pre ordered both mugs.
Have a beautiful peaceful rest of the week and thank you again!!!💗💗💗💗
Kindred spirits Kitty! 💞
How do you know just when we need a new blog? Pure magic!! Love the picture of you and Jack, obviously a mutual admiration society❤️Hugs!
Hi, Sue! Just what we need! Another chance to order an extra cup or two, at least! So many of us didn’t think to order spares! Love that cute picture of you and Millie! Yes, that would definitely be fun for Jack!
This is definitely a very serious time for our world! Here, we’ve been safe at home since March 13, out only to go through the drive through at the bank or curbside/drive through pick up for prescriptions. Grocery delivery is via Instacart. What a blessing that my favorite market has signed on with that delivery service! I have postponed a couple of appointments into the future and may postpone them even further ahead. Our area continues to register new cases, and my plans to venture out depend on a 14-day report of no new cases and everyone recovered! Masks are a wardrobe necessity, and I’m stunned when people refuse to wear them!
All the family continues to be well, and we are aware of and grateful for our blessings! Technology is amazing, and we’re able to enjoy Family Zoom sessions weekly!
Thank you for sharing your sunshine and positivity with all of us!
-xoxo
It takes a whole new way of thinking doesn’t it Nellie? Stay safe, happy spring, xoxoxo
What pure delight you are and always cheer me so and inspire me to get out my water colors, my tattered old journal, wee scraps of fabric & lace, my beloved pets beside me. Thank you for sharing your lovely world and heart with us. Love & stay well, from Cedar Hill Cottage.
Oh Susan, I know the heartache you felt over the cracked cup. I bought the Isle of Dreams cup as a constant reminder of my dream to visit your island one day. I babied it, used it every day, and suddenly one day I filled it with my morning coffee and saw a drip trickling down the side. Thinking I’d just been careless pouring I carried it to my dest and then I saw it…no! A hairline crack from top to bottom. Like you, I was so sad. It sits on my desk now holding my brushes. ❤
We don’t give up easily!
Ohhhh… I love that you’ve loved a rodent! We had a pet rat named Johnny Dangerously and loved the daylights out of him, even though he preferred our mom because she fed him Cheerios all day. They really are an underestimated star.
I’m over here in Weymouth, MA; isn’t it wonderful to have spring and warmth at last? It is lovely to hear from you. That birthday party was so sweet. The longing for friends – I’m sure that even with the 30 feet between, you were all delighted to be together. And thank you, Lowely – I now know what I want for MY birthday cake this year! Yummo!
Happy spring, and good luck with your new book.
It’s so nice to see someone else’s view during this time. The ocean! The trees and flowers! The garden! A breath of fresh air. One day we will get back to it, so we hang on tight. Thanks for sending a mini vacation!
I empathized with you, Susan, and your cracked mug. In 1987, I was in Door County, Wisconsin having dinner at the White Gull Inn and celebrating my 40th birthday. My father gave me a mug from there to keep as a remembrance and I have used it for coffee and tea ever since. A few months ago I cracked it as I was putting it away; and it also leaked enough that I realized I couldn’t use it anymore. I left it on the counter for days – mourning the loss and remembering that special weekend. I could not throw it away. And then, in a moment of clarity, I moved it to the bathroom, filled it with makeup brushes, and celebrated having it back in my everyday life. It’s still giving me happy memories!
Perfect!!!
Love your post with the pictures and art – I, too, take pics of any interesting lighting tricks from the sun on my walls! I have a small collection of them and they really are beautiful! Stay healthy and happy, Susan dear <3
Wonderful blog….full of the important things in life! Hope all stay safe on Martha’s Vineyard❤️
When can we expect the Ireland/Scotland/Wales book to come out? Anxiously awaiting! Happy Summer to you! ♥
I’ll get back to work on it when my Christmas Book goes off to the printer!
Loved all you pajama-clad kids. Cute jammies. I know who Jack loves – there’s no other like his mother. We bought that exact Beatrix Potter statute to mark the resting place of our beloved cat, Patches. She was almost 20 years old. We are on the look-out for one to mark the grave of our little cat, Daisy, who we lost just last year, much too soon. I “talk” to them when we’re sitting in the garden. Sounds like you are really enjoying writing/illustrating your Christmas book. Can’t wait to see it. Take gentle care when you’re out and about. Be safe, be kind everyone. Hugs, Elaine
So good to see you and the blog! I’ve been away from Twitter and missed so much. Maria A. will be truly happy for the Little Things since that is the same one she broke a while back and we were all heartbroken for her. We are opening up some in Texas and I am back to work but with less people in the office and being very, very careful. My kitties all follow me around as well. Hubby calls me the cat whisperer… LOL. I’ll have to show you sometime my pet cemetery for kitties, chickens and one raccoon….. It has a small fence around it with lantana and olive tree planted in it with crosses for each grave. Miss all our pettie pets 🙁 Looking forward to your Christmas book! Hugs to you from afar! 🙂
Would love to see it! One of my favorite things in England was to visit pet cemeteries in homes centuries old. All the cute animal names on the stones! Poems cut into stone for some of them. 🏇💕
Oooooh, I do hope you give us girlfriends a second chance on the English Countryside cup!! I have grieved ever since I didn’t get around to ordering it the first time!!!
I love all your blogs they make my day so special. I read them more than once and save them. Happy Spring, Early Summer Susan. Now I better go and order my mugs.
I am sorry that you chipped your special cup…I hope it’s not too selfish to admit that I’m grateful those of us who weren’t lucky enough to own one already will have a chance to order one now! Thank you for another wonderful email. You are appreciated.
Thanks again for your uplifting words and thoughts. You really brighten my day. As you may or may not remember, I live on an island as well. Vancouver Island and to date, we have had no new covid 19 cases since May 11. Hopefully, we have flattened the curve completely. Things are starting to open up so we must be ever vigilant and continue social distancing, wearing masks when out and about and washing our hands often. Despite what is going on, we can still enjoy Mother Nature at her finest. Spring is the most wonderful time of the year. Take care, and stay safe.
P.S. Love the photo of you and Jack with his little tongue out. So so cute.
So lucky, none since May 11. That’s what I’m waiting for! It’s too bad we can’t just pull up the drawbridge at times like this. 💖
Hi Susan, I’ve missed responding to your blog for a while and also missed wishing you a very happy birthday. Happy Birthday, so very, very late!! I know that it was a wonderful one!
I ALWAYS really, really love reading your wise and beautiful words, as I’m sure you already know. Thanks for being there for us during this strange and sad time in our world.
I would’ve written sooner, but in the beginning of April our entire bottom floor flooded here in Sierra Madre. A pipe burst under the powder room downstairs overnight, so we came down to water everywhere on April 6th. The floor is wood and it all had to be removed. We are still waiting for the reconstruction to begin, with walls partially having been removed also. All of this has made it a little more depressing to live in our house during this time, but we have stayed here because we have been packing up cabinets and hutches and things that can’t remain during the “remodel”. Something that we weren’t expecting to be doing during a pandemic! We have gotten down to the beach a couple of times to get away from it all. Last weekend we socially distanced and had a dinner in my sister Sally and her husband’s courtyard at their house in Seal Beach. Fun times!
But we can’t complain with so much tragedy happening everywhere in the world right now. When we saw the flooding in Michigan, our hearts went out to all of those people. That flooding made ours look like a tea party.
So, I’ve been looking forward to seeing a new blog arrive in my inbox from you. You came through and cheered me up once again! I love the wisteria around your kitchen door. Beautiful! And your drawing and painting, and the pics of you with your petty pets! All makes me smile and know that we are all getting through this together. Stay safe and healthy, you and Joe and all of your friends and family. I know you’re doing everything we need to do. We are too, over here.
xxoo, Carol
Oh Noooo Carol. What a mess! Pipes aren’t supposed to burst in California! Someone needs to tell them. Glad you can get away to the seashore. Say hello to Sally and the boys for me. xoxoxo
Oh Susan! I’m crying! I broke my bluebird cup and although I can’t use it I didn’t have the heart to take it off of my shelf. But every time I see her I’m sad because she’s no longer my teacup. I’m getting two! This is the happiest day!
An heir and a spare!😘
I love your house and you and Joe make it a beautiful home.
Your blog is always a ray of sunshine, and never more than now. Thank you for brightening my day. Yes, the sun is shining but I wasn’t – until now. 💕
You have made my day!!!! For years, I have coveted several of your hand painted mugs. However, much to my despair they were sold out before I actually ordered them. When I read today that you are once again offering the bluebird mug, my personal favorite, I was elated. Needless to say, I’m taking no chances and preordered today. Thanks so much for offering this special mug again. Now if you would just notice a crack in your English countryside mug or you are also down to one, I will be over the moon. I know I’m pushing it. As always, thanks for your inspiration and humor.
😂
Thank you so much Susan! Your wonderful girlfriend letters are a delight.
Love to all girlfriends from Wisconsin.
Gail
Great news letter,, Cheery,,,
Thank you for your photos and story telling..it’s a wonderful blog…YOU are wonderful. Your kitty loves you so much it hurts! In a good way