Rabbit-Rabbit Girlfriends! It’s been way too long, and I’ve wanted so much to write, but I needed to finish something before I did . . . so I could tell you! And yesterday, in the nick of time for July first, so we can celebrate Christmas in July . . . I did! I finished! I’m a person again! Let’s start this celebration with MUSICA from the way-back machine (pure proof I love you), because this is the way I like my house to sound when the screen door is open in
I come bearing gifts. Meet one of the characters in my new book! Yes, it’s finished! Many of you know I wanted to write something special for this Christmas, which may, considering the circumstances, be our most memorable and creative ever! So, I did, I’ve been deep in Christmas every day since March! A lovely place to spend a pandemic since choice does not seem to be on the menu!😷
I used my tiniest brush to make a childrens’ book for big people, and little people too.❤️ It’s been so much fun choosing shoes and clothes . . . like playing with paper dolls! 
And Look! I blot my paintbrush on watercolor paper ~ so I saved them, and cut them, and look at all the new bookmarks! I hope I can meet you at a bookstore someday ~ because I made them for you! I’ll come there bearing gifts too!❤️
So, I finally named it Home for Christmas, because no other title would do . . . that’s where it looks like we all might be this year the way things are going! Not the worst place to spend Christmas!
I painted every little bit of the book, even this . . . little things matter too…
That’s the truth, and here’s the cover! One day, after months of putting one foot in front of the other inching along to today (which was going to happen one way or another) . . . the cover materialized right on my art table! I saw it happen! My Santa has never been in a book or a calendar, it was now or never! After all, Joe was my model for Santa. And yesterday, I turned in the very last page and realized, it was okay now, I could go ahead and put it up for presale! It’s a 64-page storybook, with watercolors and photographs ~ it’s
And going off to the printer in Crawfordsville, Indiana at the end of next week. And that’s when I get started on phase-two of book publication . . . 
Waiting for it to arrive at the end of August . . . knowing that…
If you want one . . . you can get it HERE . . . I am going to TRY and see if any of my favorite independent bookstores would like to have a zoom-book-party. I’d love to invite you to something, we’ll see what they say. There is one party I know FOR SURE is coming next month, in August. Remember when I was going to be in Duxbury, MA for a luncheon and book-talk last Mother’s Day? And it had to be canceled? Well, they’ve gotten creative! They’ve planned a computer party that you will ALL be invited to.❤️ Don’t ask me how it will work, I have NO idea, I don’t know if it will be on Zoom or what, but I hear it’s going to be amazing ~ that you’ll be able to hear and see me, that I can even show pictures. I’ll send you details the minute I know them! So keep your calendar looking like mine, with nothing on it except for full moons and birthdays you’re not attending!
And because it seems many of you missed them the first time ~ we ordered more Santa Cups to go with the book! Kellee put them up for preorder too! HERE. They’ll get here the same time as the other cups!
Speaking of . . . everything’s on schedule! They should be here the end of this month! If you wanted one, I hope you got one because the Little Things cup is now completely gone. Before they’ve even arrived! There are still a few Bluebirds available ~ you can see the handle, back, and bottoms of them HERE. If you placed an order, we’ll send them the minute they arrive, first come, first serve.💝
And, yes, Calendars are coming too ~ the 2021 wall calendars (one of them is all art, the other one is mostly photographs) are up for presale now… but they’ll all be here, including the Blotter, the Mini, and the purse calendar, too, around the end of this month.
And one last bit of business, YES! (isn’t that the BEST word?!) We did reorder the Pandemic Postcards, and they did come in . . .
Okay, well, we have other plans too. We’re going to make Christmas cards and Thanksgiving cards, and new wrapping paper for Spoonflower 
~ and other surprises ~ we’re doing our best to create the best distancing, but reaching-out Christmas we know how to do. What do we want for Christmas? A vaccine, thank you very much.💞 It makes me happy to think we have the best minds in the world working on making that happen in the safest and quickest way possible. I can’t live in here the rest of my life. I need to do a yard sale!!! Stuff is piling up. I may end up having an estate sale in the antique section of my webstore! Might just have to! Wouldn’t that be interesting.✔️ What do you think?
Back to our regular scheduled programing . . . the little things that make life sweet. Morning shadows ~ so quiet here these days. 
This pandemic asked us to go inside in more ways than one. Just like all the other unexpected, undesired, unplanned-for events in our lives. I wrote a book about it which a lot of you read … Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams was my very own maskless pandemic! Same question I was always asking then, time will pass anyway, what am I going to DO with it? Now that I’m a person again, I’m about to find out! Paint is probably the answer! 🤣 I’m a little bit addicted! Although Joe thinks I should say “cook!” 
I know I’ll take pictures of shadows! Nature’s art! I love it when the sun tips off of things. . . so pretty.
One of the many reasons I love morning!
Minding my own business, washing apples and making toast, and hello sunshine, poof, magic!
I flipped the light on in the kitchen this morning and found these two like this. Doesn’t it look like they’re up to something? Things go on around here I know nothing about.
While I was busy, one of my favorite people, the wonderful Vera Lynn died . . . 😢 The thing about losing people, especially the very old, it’s not just them, it’s their connection to history, what they could tell us if we asked, and even to our own ancestral past . . . even if we aren’t related.
XOXO
Such an important person of her times. If World War II had a heart, it would be her, if it had a soundtrack, it would be her. Whether or not you’re familiar with her, you’ll enjoy this tribute . . . We always took her music to play in the car when we were driving the back roads of England. James Taylor is the voice of Martha’s Vineyard, Vera Lynn is the voice of Britain.
OXO
There was something else I learned about I wanted to tell you . . . oh yes, have you heard of Radio Garden? Go HERE ~ and hear what’s playing on any radio station in the world! BBC London? Yes! WMVY, our Martha’s Vineyard Station? Yes. WCAI from the Cape and Islands? Yes. Homesick for somewhere? They have a radio station!
Driving home from the market the other day, I rolled down the car window to take this picture ~ if this mitten looks familiar but you only have one? The other one is on the fence post at the corner of Look and Spring Streets on Martha’s Vineyard!
I haven’t touched the garden this year! Sad thing is, you can’t tell! You don’t do gardens at Christmas-time in this neck of the woods, and that let me out. It’s lucky a lot of ours came back. Can’t ask much more than this!
All doing fine without me. I think roses and hydrangeas are the two number-one flowers on Martha’s Vineyard! (Don’t you like the way I said that?😂)
I always do what my dishtowels tell me to do!
And there’s my boy, in his regular position when I’m putting clothes on the line! Doesn’t want to miss a thing!
And here’s my other boy. Life is good. We decided to start watching Foyle’s War over again (on Acorn) . . . I missed some of it the first time! Joe and I meet at 6 pm and quiz each other on what we remember from the show from the night before! So good, if you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it. It has the gift, removes today from your mind completely!
Flag’s up!
I’m a flag putter-upper from way back!
No fireworks on the island this year!
So happy I have the photographs! Jack’s fine with it, he’s asleep next to me in his drawer right now, breeze coming in through the window, and no loud bangs to scare him.
Did you know about this “co-incidence?” ⬆️ I think this is just too much. The same DAY? On the 50th Anniversary? Miles and miles apart? So far apart, and news traveled so slow then, people had to put two and two together! Imagine their faces! Just like mine!😲 How can that BE?
You will need a taste treat for the fourth . . . why not try a recipe for something delicious that also makes you laugh! This is the one! It’s in the new version of Heart of the Home if that makes it easier…p.99.❤️
Well, time to face the Musica and go be a person, if I remember how. First up? A nap! Then back to
W E A R A M A S K 😎
Yours forever,💞 Anna Susana Dana Branchburger, the third.
Your Christmas book looks magical.
I wish I still had my bookstore on Cape Cod to sell it to your Mashpee,Ma
fans. My shop the Cape Cod Book Center always stocked you wonderful
books.
Enjoy today and everyday with hope and joy.
Well, thank you for that Carole, I’m always honored to make it into an Independent Bookstore. My favorite of course, just like home!
Happy July, sweet Susan! I was excited, as always, to see a new blog. You sound relieved and joyous. Everything you are planning is very exciting for us. I will pre-order your Christmas book today. I have and love that Santa mug. Those cheeks! 🎅 Christmas cards…hooray!! Thank you.❤
We moved these last few weeks ago In 4 days of pouring rain. My mother always said rainy day moves and weddings mean good luck. I hope so. Our word these days is “different.” Everything is different. Kitchen items in a different place, furniture placed differently, etc. This is my daughter’s little house. She remarried and moved 2 years ago, rented out the house, and now rented it to us. Cozy and different. 🏠
Welcome Home Peggy . . . soon it will really be home . . . Must have been a huge job . . . CONGRATULATIONS!
YAAAY! I needed this SOOOOOO bad today, thank you Susan. So uplifting as always. I can’t wait to purchase your book and I’m glad I got one of the last mugs! YAY!
Thanks so much for the blog. It makes SO many people happy. And the new book looks great. Can’t wait until its arrival in August. Stay safe!!
Susan Branch! Thank you for sharing your love for life with all of us! You always brighten my day….always! My friends call me the Susan Branch of Gorham. I am a bit obsessed. Stay well and stay happy and never change! Love, from Maine
👏👏👏🇺🇸😘
I’ve ordered the book can’t wait! You are the best.
I’m glad you are staying safe and being productive. I look forward to the Christmas book I just pre-ordered.
Hello Sue & Joe,
All great news! Can hardly wait for the book and a sweet Zoom with the girlfriends.
Happy Birthday America!
Melin
Just stopped doing this and that to check e-mail and lookie what i found!
A new beautiful, encouraging blog post. Susan, you convinced me…i was having a hard time decorating for this weekend. I guess just glum. But if your flag is flying than mine is too! Christmas cards and wrapping paper…surly you jest!!!
Add those items to the Full on Susan Branch Christmas 2020, yay.
Getting my little “pre-ordering” fingers ready. Since lock down there’s been very little to splurge on so here we go.
I’m sure you are loving your little island this summer. Just a bit more quiet.
I keep telling myself, this will be over, this will be over…someday.
Will be watching for Zoom get together, might have to have some tea, cake etc..made for the occasion.
Love you Susie, thanks for nudging us cheerfully through the day.
Hugs.
We’re in it together! xoxoxoxoxoxo 💝
OH what a dope! And Congratulations on getting to the finish line on the Sweetest Christmas book ever!
K
❤️
I loved getting your blog. I bought the cookbook several years ago. Would love to find some of other product in stores as I don’t buy off internet much. I live in Marshalltown IA. And now Walmart is the biggest shopping area. Wondering if you have any product in Hobby Lobby. Have a wonderful day.
Stores are hard to get to these days . . . we try sometimes, but if you have a local small shop you like to go to, have them contact us . . . we do sell lots of things to the maybe 15 or so brick and mortar stores that have contacted us. The big stores are almost impossible to get into… like Costco or Hobby Lobby. You have to be a huge corporation to do that. But thank you for asking!
Karen, Buying off Susan’s website is easy, reliable, and safe. I recommend purchasing here.
Is there something in particular you are interested in?. Perhaps I can help you out. Feel free to email me
[email protected]
Great Musica today and LOVE Abe’s religion. Sort of matches my thought about it all. Congrats on finishing your Christmas book project. Such a great feeling – finishing a big task. You are an inspiration. Sobbed a bit for Vera Lynn. She had a good long life though and we are lucky to have all the recordings. Now a few tears are leaking for Carl Reiner, what a great legacy of laughs he left us. Pretty sure I’ll be watching that movie -The Russians are Coming, The Russians are Coming!. What a dear person he was and what is his pal and dinner partner going to do without him, Mel Brooks? Feel kind of sad for him losing his life-long friend. Will there be a July 4 parade by your house in this year of the Pandemic? I am looking forward to purchasing your new Christmas at Home book :-). Hour garden looks lovely.
That movie! When the telephone operator was tied to Carl Reiner and they fell down the stairs. I thought I would die laughing!!! Laughing now! All of our normal island celebrations are canceled. We’re open, people are here, and we understand that EVERYONE is wearing a mask (we don’t know because we stay home!). Islanders, those who can, stay home.
Happy July, Susan! Thanks for the new blog to brighten our day. Virtual hugs to you, Joe and precious Jack. Take care, Bridget 🌸
Oh my so many wonderful tidbits in this blog. Preordered your book Just got in the mail yesterday Vera Lynn’s Book Keep Smiling Through. Her wartime story. Amazing fact about death of Jefferson and Adams. Looking forward to more of your Christmas items. Thanks for a beautiful blog
Happy to you, too, dear Sue and Joe and Jack. This is a blog worth waiting for ~ chock-a-block full of so many reasons I love to spend time with you. After today’s working-from-home-computer 8 hours, I’m coming back here and will spend time at my favorite sitting-on-the-grass place in front of your clothesline. Tell Jack so he won’t worry when he sees an unfamiliar face on his property. (As you know, cats can see things not everyone else can.) For the first time in my long book-reading life, I am re-reading a book that I just finished reading… jumping from Page 369 right back to Page 1… can you guess what book it is? I think so, because you just mentioned one of the reasons here: it is the absolutely PERFECT book to read when you are quarantined! Yes, you guessed it! MVIOD! It is so lovely and fun and comforting to open that wonderful cover and join you and Diana and your darling Dad and Myron and Ellie and Peggy and Gwinnie and Billy and Man-Cat and Girl-Cat and Carlton and Holly Oak (a house that has so much of its own personality) ~ what an adventure to join you there! (Have I thanked you for inviting us to go along with you yet? Thank you very, very much.) And with all that, this time I have been startled by several lines and paragraphs that I know you wrote in 2016 (the copyright in the front says so) but that are so 2020. How do you do that? Well, I have to return to 2020 myself, and finish my working-from-home hours. Going with a smile ‘cause your blog and the girlfriends will be waiting for me at 5:00 p.m., my work-day tea time. xoxoxo and xoxoxo
Oh how dear of you Christie . . . I loved you mentioning all my “characters!” Took me back in time! Things don’t change very much do they? Our human-hood makes it that way. Happy 5pm! xoxo
Yes, I love all your “characters” too! Well, almost all of them ~ I’ve had to re-read page 200 a few times over to remind myself that I also believe most everyone does the best they can (tho some people make it harder to remember than others). I keep typing/erasing, typing/erasing, trying to put into words how much I love reading this book, especially now during this season. Reading it two times in a row has been so fun ~ very few of my favorite authors have the nearly magical gift of teleporting me right smack dab into the time and place and story they are relating (a skill you make seem like the natural product of storytelling), and it is a rare book that causes me to laugh out loud* ~ something MVIOD does alot (and cry). *You and Diana could have a successful TV sitcom, you are so funny together – right up there with Lucy & Ethel or Laverne and Shirley! “I’m not a lobster nurse!” LOL!!!
I do not want to leave Vineyard Haven, yet. Luckily, two of my friends are also reading it right now (one for the first time), so I can dial into two seperate mini-bookclub discussions most anytime. xoxo
Ohhh Christie, that was lovely. You took me right back. Had to get out the book and read page 200, I’m so glad he’s still my friend, it’s very touching in a way! Then I had to go back and read pp 126 through 129, and now I need to go call Diana! Thank you! You just made my day! XOXOXO
See what I mean? Now I want to go back and re-re-read. Dear Sue, you have so earned every one of those gold stars and then double that amount for sharing so much with us. And the next time you talk with Diana, please tell her that every time I read your books I’m sending her xoxoxo hugs with lots of gold stars, too ~ for being a really truly true best friend and saving your life and making you laugh all the rest of the time, and then for agreeing to let all of us meet and get to know her. “That’s generosity for you! That’s what I call ‘true best friend’ behavior!” (to [sort of] quote another favorite author). Anyway, I’ve just re-read Fairy Tale Girl, and have to re-read Fine Romance, and then I will HAVE to start MVIOD again. The 50s & 60s & 70s & 80s were interesting enough when I first journeyed through them, but so much more fun reliving them with you and all your ‘characters’. XOXOXO
Ha ha, yes, I do see what you mean! I will give Diana your message, but of course she knows. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
So SO SOOOOO excited about the Christmas Book!
Just pre-ordered the book! SO excited to get it. I just love your books Susan! xo
Just as Foyle’s War erases the woes of today, so too does your blog! Thank you for making my heart feel cozy and warm – I think we can all use as much of that as possible! And thank you for sharing the radio link – that is so cool! Especially as I have just picked up and moved cross-country. And it made me think to ask you if you are familiar with the UK 1940s radio? They play only 1940s and there is also UK 1950s radio. They are both fabulous and make me think of you! You can just google for “UK 1940s radio” and it should be the first link. Also, just ordered your new book yesterday and I am counting the days!
So I just went to Radio Garden, and searched for UK, 1940s music . . . and now it’s playing while I write! LOVE IT, thank you, Marisa!!!
A post! You made my day. I’m glad you finished your Christmas book and can now be a person again 🙂 it’s Canada Day here. Everyone is celebrating in their own homes, no fireworks here. 🙁. The picture of Jack made me smile.
Stay safe. Happy 4th.
Paula
Been working in the garden & came in to check for messages & low & behold found this! Yippee! No comments yet, which I’ve never encountered before, so I just have to leave you a note even though I haven’t even read the entire post yet. It looks lovely! I can hardly wait to give it the attention it deserves. So nice to hear from you. Big hugs to all those you can still hug ❤️ Later…
Hi Susan! I, too, am a fan of Vera Lynn music, in fact, I have a book of sheet music from the war years and often sit at the piano and play two of my favorites, “A Nightingale Sang in Barkeley Square” and “There’ll Be Blue Birds Over the White Cliffs of Dover”. I can almost hear Vera singing along as I play. (Also, I love “I’ll Be Seeing You” – my mom’s favorite from that time). Speaking of my mother, she turns 100 on July 30! Unfortunately, we’ll have to wish her a Happy Birthday through a window, but at least she’ll get to see us standing there with goofy grins and tears rolling down our faces, and with balloons and a big sign of love! I do get to facetime with her, though, which is wonderful, thanks to the chaplain at the nursing facility. I started watching Foyle’s War, for the first time. It’s very good! Don’t you just love Sam Stewart’s real name – Honeysuckle Weeks! Oh! And thanks for the tip for Radio Garden! I immediately downloaded it and will look for stations that play big band music. Congratulations on finishing your book! How wonderful! I love Santa Joe on the cover. I pre-ordered right away – don’t want to miss out! And I couldn’t make up my mind which wall calendar I wanted – so ordered both! It sounds like you’ve got so many more delightful items coming for the girlfriends! I eagerly await! Here’s wishing you and Joe very happy 4th of July! Oh, and regarding flags, I love your huge flag decorating the front of your home! I asked my husband to put little flags around our property this year and he said, “Linda, we don’t want it looking like a car dealership!” This year, yes we do!
100! How lucky are you!!! Happy Birthday from me too . . .💞 Yes, Sam is Honeysuckle, she must have had a cute mother! Ha ha, your husband is funny!😂
I’ve been feeling kind of blue, stuck at home with an almost healed broken wrist. It doesn’t help that it’s my left hand & I’m left-handed! Just not feeling terribly motivated. So your lovely newsletter has shown up just in time to cheer me up! I’m sure you have this effect on many more than just me. Thank you so much & keep on keeping on!😊
I relate. Broke my dominant hand last year at this time! Not fun, and not easy! Thank you Michele . . . now go practice that right-hand writing! Keep it in your diary so you remember to never break another bone! xoxoxo
Yeah! So excited for Home for Christmas! Just pre-ordered that and the 2021 calendar. Thank you for sharing your amazing gifts with us!
Thank you, Susan, this is just what I needed today. I hope you, Joe, and Jack enjoy a wonderful July 4th!
We would love to see you on Zoom! Keep us posted!
Susan,
Yeah! You’re free! Thank you for all the happy news and wonderful things to look forward to! I can hardly wait, but I will preorder my Christmas book now!
Dear Sue and Joe
Happy Fourth of July! I’m so glad you finished your Christmas book so we can buy it, and so you can now have time to enjoy the summer. It will probably be nice to have one summer that is less crowded on the island . I’m sure you will have a great socially distanced Fourth. Will your new Christmas book be available on Amazon? When I order your books on Amazon the shipping is less. Please let me know as I don’t want to miss out on your book. I collect children’s books. Merry Christmas in July!
Love Sue……
Yes, I wish we didn’t have to pass on the terrific burden of shipping, but we are too small, and the shipping companies don’t give us the discounts they do for Amazon and others. Much harder to be a small business . . . same with printing in the USA. Much cheaper to do it in Asia. But that puts our people out of work! Seems upside-down and backwards! I’m not sure when it will be on Amazon, we give them the information, but it’s up to them after that!😘
Susan, I ordered your beautiful bluebird cup awhile ago but have not yet received it. Can you tell me if it is on its way? Also I tried to order the new book on Christmas but it said to log in and I do not know how to LOG IN. Does it say anywhere how to do this? I am looking forward to getting this new book. Joe looks great as Santa on the cover! Blessings Dianne
Yes, Bluebirds should arrive at the studio at the end of this month! I sent your note to sheri at the studio and she should get in touch with you about ordering. I don’t know what LOG IN means either!😅
I love your greeting cards. I wish you had more condolence and get well cards, as they have been (unfortunately) of great need lately. Congrats on finishing your new book.
Merry Christmas! I mean welcome back! I love what glimpses of your Christmas book we’ve seen! An estate sale on your webstore is a great idea!
It is wonderful to hear from you! But we knew you were hard at work. I am very excited about your Christmas book. I shall put in an order post haste!
We have an old sea captain’s house in Maine and it has kept us busy and brought us great comfort over these months. No place like home…. we are so fortunate.
Leslie in Maine
We count our blessings much more than usual here too … 💞 And pray for everyone.
I’m a small independent retailer gift shop. How can I carry your precious book for Christmas?
That’s easy, just write to [email protected]/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ and she’ll set you up!
Thank you for the blog. I hope you realize how much we need it and you these days. They bring a smile to my heart.
Pre-ordered your book. So exciting!! I’m in love with your illustrations.
Here’s to a safe 4th of July. (We did buy some items to shoot off on the 4th but took into consideration our dogs and cats. We didn’t want anything that is really loud-just stuff with a lot of sparkle).
Now, should I order the Santa mug….? YES!
Love sparklers, and remember those worms that we used to have that wriggled around on the sidewalk? Love those, and for rides, the Merry-Go-Round is fine with me!
Those worms were disgusting which is probably why my brothers liked them. There used to be rides in the Iowa City park that we would take out girls to when they were small. There was a small ferris wheel and a merry-go-round which I loved too, along with a small scale train that would take the kids around in a huge circle. Great memories of watching the kids enjoy the rides and wiping sticky hands and faces after eating popsicles.
Did you have cotton candy? I loved that!!
Not a big fan of cotton candy but taffy was always a favorite.
What a great way to spend the 4th, talking about those memories. Hope you can make some memories today.
Working on that right now!
I just love you Susan. 🙂 Your words and art cheer my heart. Have a grand and glorious summer!
Thank you for your uplifting words especially in these times.
Susan — amazing that your new Christmas book is being published in Indiana…I just got back from a visit to my big brother there yesterday. I didn’t enjoy overnighting in a hotel both ways (yes, COVID paranoia), but had a wonderful visit with a very limited number of family and a couple friends. My great nephew was going to come back with me, but with COVID exploding in Houston, we decided now was not the time. Of course, I came home to a “nasty-gram” from my HOA; they always seem to know how to ruin a trip…
Now, I’m going to pre-order your book and pretend the HOA doesn’t exist for a short while. Oh yeah…and cuddle my kitty! My brother and sister-in-law’s furrball only makes friends with me the day before I leave!
Glad you got there and back safely! Boo on the HOA! ❤️
I am so happy to hear your new book is finished. Can’t wait to read it. I am also happy you are a person again. Such a commitment to write a book, as well as the art work. You always inspire me.
Thank you Joellen! xoxo
Oh, wonderful! What exciting news! I’d like at least one of all!:-) Such serious times! We’ve not been out of the car anywhere except our own garage since March 12! Groceries delivered via Instacart; curbside pickup for prescriptions and items from my favorite market! We need a little Christmas, right this very minute! Yes, it looks like that’s where we’ll all be this Christmas – HOME! While missing time with family a few hours away, home is really the best place to be. Cooking has kept my attention….planning special observances to create some cheer around the house. This week has been Italian Week; next week is Picnic Week. We’ve been having lots of rain, so we may be picnicking on a quilt on the family room floor! So happy I was able to buy some postcards! Added note cards, too! Love them all! Thank you for sharing your joyful creativity with us! Now, go take some time for yourself again! Happy wishes to you!
How smart Nellie, I love that, creating cheer around the house… I guess we do need more breaks from the Groundhog Day aspect of this thing! Stay good Nellie, pass my love to your family! xoxo💞
Hi Sweet Sue……such a nice blog…..I love the shadow photo’s and I love your kitty peeking out the screen door…..a book of photos is in your future….hmmm….put that on your to do list…..
today I was to be in London, for 2 weeks, which was to include meeting a friend from Dublin, in Hove, near Brighton, to stay in a cottage for 3 nights…our plans included Monk’s House, Charleston, Great Dixter……our trip is cancelled until perhaps next year we will be on British Air, making way to the little hotel in London, the porridge, the clotted cream on scones, the walks through the markets in London, the luvly people and chats in the local pub…..the chats always seem to include that we are in this together with our British friends….I miss the trip, but realize how lucky am I that I could even plan such an adventure in the world? So dear one, reading “A Fine Romance” is going to happen….(my 4th time by the by)….thank you and ooooo! I love the watercolor swatches, saving them, and using them for bookmarks….what an idea!
ciao for now….
Regina, Seattle
You are killing me Regina, when you got to the porridge, I melted!😘
Hi, Regina, On one of our trips to Old Blighty, Tom and I spent 11 nights in Rodmell, home of Monk’s House. We spent 4 nights in Virginia and Leonard’s wonderful garden. You make the reservations with National Trust. Lovely little apartment that was once the potting shed. Best part is that when the house and gardens are closed, you get to have it all to yourselves. I still have a tiny bowl with dried rose petals and some large seed pods that we called “buck eyes”. Some acorns from Chartwell as well. (sorry, I could not resist that.) We also spent a week at a wonderful BnB just up the lane. We had to cancel our trip for this October and November, as things are just too uncertain. Hope you get to make that trip next year, Regina.
What a wonderful place to stay, definitely Regina’s cup of tea, and mine too! And a wonderful neighborhood!
Oh Susan,
You always brighten my day! Thanks for the joy you give all of us!
❤️Cindy
You are a much needed breath of fresh air as always! Enjoyed the video on Vera Lynn and had to chuckle at your sign off ‘handle’. I had just finished a little calligraphy of our son and daughter-in-law’s wedding vows to each other for their second anniversary and your blog furnished a good read for my break. Thank you so much for all of your positive thoughts on the World and our places in it. You are the BEST!
Hugs to you and Joe,
paige
Happy second for your babies!💝
Lovely Susan!
* Where did you get the ‘Hope and Keep Busy’ dish towel?
I want one, no . . .I need one!!!
Jeanine
Someone sent it to me from Orchard House, Louisa May Alcott . . . I bet you can get one on line!💞
Susan early this morning I had a dream that I visited you in your adorable home and we has such a delightful conversation as I admired all your sweet decor in your home. Our new puppy, Oliver Bean woke me up with his whining for me to rise and shine and when my husband came in I told him I had just had the best dream EVER! Sure started my day on a happy note!
LOL, I love dreams like that! 💞
I love Christmas! Can’t wait to get the book. But….aren’t you writing a book about your last trip to England? Or am I wrong?
Thanks for brightening my day!
Yes, I hope to get back to it soon! Broke my wrist last year at this time. Was a BIG setback!
So excited! Got my copy of your book pre-ordered this morning! Love the ideas for virtual bookstore visits. I’m in! (Although, would rather be there in person – but next best thing!) If you ever decide to reorder the 4th of July mugs, it’s the one that got away. Would really like to have one of those. Hope you have a great Fourth of July and a restful summer now that you’re finished with the book.
Hi Sherrie! I’m thinking I will do that for next 4th! ❤️ Good idea! xoxoxo
Yay! Something to look forward to for next year! <3 xoxo
Unfortunately the post cards are already out of stock. Hope to see them again soon! thank you!!
Shocking! But we reordered, should be here soon!
Unfortunately the post cards already out of stock. Hopefully you will re-restock. Thanks.
I’m checking on that Anna . . . if they really are all gone (hard to believe!), then watch this space, we should be able to get more very quickly.
Dear Susan,
What an uplifting blog today! I needed it…and…I preordered my Home for Christmas book. Yippee! Sadly, no fireworks or any type of July 4 celebrations for Boise either. We’ve had some major (for Idaho) community spread in Ada county and the county health district rolled us BACK to stage 3 of our reopening plan. I’m all for that and felt things were opening a bit too quickly for my comfort. It’s status quo for my family as we’ve remained hunkered down, masks on, and essential outings only during all of the reopening phases. We remain a healthy family who has never been exposed to or around any one who’s tested positive for Covid19 and I’d like to keep it that way! Love following you on Twitter and especially, reading your political points/retweets. I’ve learned a thing or two and “hearted” a thing or two because you and I stand politically “blue” together. Thank you for using your celebrity to share, speak candidly and transparently with your audience. We are listening.
Enjoy your lovely summer!
Samantha Brakefield (aka, Mt. Borah Lady)
Hi Samantha, I still remember your wonderful picture!! Smart health district for you guys! I wish everyone would have started getting ready for this earlier, maybe we’d be opening up for real now! Us too, island is opening for the tourists, we had a month with no new cases, but they started back up again yesterday. Islanders stay in if they can, and tourists mill about. Prayers for us all. Yes, you keep it that way, and then you can have Christmas together and wallow in the hugs!😘
Hi Susan, Just love this blogg, looking forward to all the new items coming our way! Hard to believe it is time to get next years calendar already. Computer key pad & my arms are resting on 2020 (sooo sweet to see) right now. I also am a flag putter up person. Twenty are flying in the breeze on the front porch (5 per post) and 40 are in the back! Soooooo colorful and festive. Keep up the great work, you are so talented and “spot on” with your posts. Have a great 4th of July.
Your house must be wonderful! It’s a grand old flag!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
I am looking so forward to a virtual BOOK PARTY! Count me in, Sister!
So fun to hear from you, Susan! Can’t wait for the new book to be here!
From Mary Berry Contrary Ruggleinski , the First!!!!
Hahahahaha!!!
Christmas in July has never been more welcome!🎄🎉
Susan, You made my day…soo excited to hear my bluebird cup will be arriving soon!! I loved the book A Fine Romance and now eager to read the first two in the trilogy. I only wish that your book had been coffee table sized as I loved all of the gorgeous pictures…. just wished they were bigger. (Maybe do a BIG reprint someday??) Looking forward to trying the recipes in The Heart of The Home. Glad that you were simply beyond busy not not absent due to Corona Virus. Now think I have two relatives, two neighbors, one very dear friend and my hairdresser who’ve had it. Common denominator–Each said it was UNLIKE anything THEY’D EVER HAD BEFORE..and each sick for weeks in Jan.!! Stay well SB-we need you in this world!! Love and hugs, Gail
I’m so happy they are pulling through. What a nightmare. I lost an old friend from high school to it. Good idea about the photos. What I can do is put a few of them on the blog, full-sized so you can see them better! xoxo
Oh, this post made me cry for many reasons.
Thank you for knowing how we
Feel right now. I must try the chicken.
💞💞💞
Welcome back from the Land of Writing! Looking forward to new calendars, new book, cups (our universal need for a good cuppa will continue long into 2021, I am thinking) and pandemic postcards. Won’t it be interesting for generations not yet a twinkle in the proverbial eye to come across our journals and letters and prayer books and learn about the Great Virus of 2020 the way we look back on The Great War and The Curse of the Spanish Lady? (and could we,please, have a button or a sticker that says, quite bravely and artistically, “I VOTED”?)
I adore the morning shadows in your house, so soothing. At our house,on the hill, a special, golden light comes in our west-facing rooms just about an hour before the sun sets. It fills our rooms with the most delicious glow, especially in the Living Room, where our walls are lined with bookshelves floor-to-ceiling. The light on the old bindings is magical, and the shadows cast by the treasures tucked among the books, old photographs, figurines, memories of our many adventures never fail to bring a smile. “Remember how it rained the day we took that picture of your Grandmom?””I’ll never forget that trip to the Oregon Vortex!””What were we thinking to spend so much on that silly monkey puppet?” The wooden shelves are like picture frames, each segment tells a story: Shakespeare, History of Cinema, Gardening, Children’s Favorites (on a low shelf) etc. “Where is that little blue copy of Love’s Labours Lost from the Yale Shakespeare, there’s an empty place next to King Lear…” Hmmm, looks like its time to dust. Again. I am writing this on the 104th Birthday of Olivia DeHaviland, and all day we are singing Happy Birthday to her. And Happy Birthday to all of you out there, in there. Please keep keeping in touch. And Thank You, Susan, for keeping us all moving in the right direction – forward!
We’re doing it together dear Jennie Lou, thank you for the vision of your bookshelves!
I just watched the video of you going through the Yorkshire Dales, brought back lovely memories of our travels.
Do you know about the Brambly Hedge books by Jill Barklem? They are all about the mice that live in a hedgerow. They are mostly out of print but worth searching for. I just did a Google search and found lots of used bookstores that sell them. The original books are almost as small as Beatrix Potter’s books and are chock full of the most detailed art work. The first one we got was a winter mystery, The Secret Staircase.
Both of your homes look lovely with the flag displayed! Happy 4th!
I am familiar with them Jill, charming little books!
I MUST have the pandemic postcards! Feel
Like I have been in prison since March 1… would love to use them for birthday greetings but when I try to put them in my cart, it says Sold out still! I also need to be put on the wait list for your new book… haven’t missed one yet! How can I get the postcards ASAP???
Kellee says for you to refresh . . . because they’re there!
Nope NOT there! i just tried 2 hrs later after the time you posted and it STILL shows out of stock. maybe Kellee..Susan..someone check the site that something isnt wrong? It wont allow to pt in cart as it states “OUT of stock and is removed”. thanks
I checked, because I couldn’t believe it either . . . and we are out of them again! Re-ordered instantly, should be here within a week! Sorry!
Ohh, Susan, you have accomplished so much for us to anticipate a Merry Christmas at Home!! I can’t wait to get it, especially the book with your own handsome Santa on the cover!Thank you for your message of hope and love!!
I was kinda hoping you were busy with film scripts… Nice to hear from you again!
Planning to read the Declaration of Independence to celebrate Independence Day on Saturday. Happy Canada Day to our neighbors up North.
Rabbit…..Rabbit……this post was pure joy. A perfect escape!!! Thank you for always improving my mood…….no matter how happy I am after reading your posts …I am happier.
Happy 4th and Happy Summer. 🇺🇸🗽🎆🎇 🕶🌊🏖
Hugs and Smiles,
Liz
Love your tribute to Dame Vera, loved hearing the innocent times when people cared about their country. Liked Lincoln’s quote of feeling bad when he did bad. The car coming on the wrong side of the road in England was a little frightening, but the rolling green is beautiful. Will I be able to buy the Santa cup around Christmas time too? I would like to get one for cousin and sister. Enjoy the curtain blowing in with the wind.
I hope so Margie, just depends on if we run out of them. xoxo
Happy 4th, Susan and Joe🇺🇸🇺🇸 ……… Thank you for sharing the wonderful music of Vera Lynn. It is so comforting to hear her voice and know what she meant to the soldiers in WW11. I wish we had someone like her here in the US now. I loved your trip through the Yorkshire Dales highlighting the beauty of the countryside. The English countryside evokes such a serene and pleasant feeling with its beauty. Your blog took me to wonderful memories and beautiful places today and I thank you for that. Wishing we could all celebrate the 4th with a patriot tribute to what it means to be an American. God Bless the USA🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸!
👏💞
Oh you make my heart sing from the dish towels on the line to Jack peeking out of the open screen door and everything in between like the soft gold morning sunlight bathing your home in light. Thank you for sharing your life. Sigh. Happy 4th! Stay safe and healthy.
So excited for the new book! I jumped up and ordered the book and the Santa mug. I dilly dallied on the little house mug and missed it so I wasn’t taking any chances this time. Something to look forward too! Thanks Susan!
So nice to hear from you. Love your sign off. I always enjoy a new post no matter what you are doing. We are set to record and watch Yankee Doodle Dandy on the 4th. TCM shows it every year. This year it seems to start earlier, so we will record and watch in the evening. No fireworks this year.
My favorite, maybe of all, although that would be saying something. Used to dance it on my picnic table in the backyard after watching it on Million Dollar Movie! (was 10, so it was okay) Love the songs . . . just the best!
I love you Susan Branch ❤️ You make life better & the world a sweeter place ❤️
I had never heard the strange coincidence of Thomas Jefferson and John Adams death on the same day…AMAZING! 2020 has been full of things that have amazed me…some good, some bad, some that make me say “are you kidding me?”
I’m forever grateful that I can always rely on my inbox getting my copy of the Susan Branch blog. I always find a way to carve out at least an hour for pure enjoyment and a smile. Thank you so much Susan! Happy 4th of July to you and your 2 boys!
I know it’s a cliche to say roller coaster, but that’s what it’s been and there’s no way around it. I wake up every day and like Dorothy Parker, I say to myself, “what fresh hell is this!” 🤣 I just wish everything would CALM DOWN 🗣.
Another great blog. I just finished my order for the Christmas book.Tomorrow going to make the beer chicken for dinner from my new cookbook.
Happy 4th of July to you.
Karen
Susan, when is Enchantment coming out? Tell me that it’s “tomorrow,” for I am so bored. Thank you. Terri
I broke my wrist this time last year and after that it was Christmas, and after that I had the calendars to do . . . and then I thought, I can never get Enchanted done by Christmas, so I decided to write a real Christmas story . . . and NOW, back to Enchanted!
Yay, I was wondering about Enchanted also, I am glad you are going to complete it. And,excited to order Home for Christmas! I would love to do a zoom to see and hear you also,that would be GREAT! Thank you for your uplifting post!!!!
Love You More
Linda –from Connecticut
❤️
Hello Dearies,
In tears over Dame Vera- but, oh my!, what a good, long life!
I trundled off and ordered “Home for Christmas” and a couple of other things right away. I’m starting my birthday month off properly today. 🙂
I love, love, love Foyle’s War and particularly love Michael Kitchen. He was my favorite in “The Enchanted April”. I started playing the oboe because of that role. Also great in “Out of Africa”.
Hope you all are well and happy and yes for goodness sake- wear a mask! You can make some that are really cute.
We think of you often and send good energy and wishes your way every time we do. There are lots of worse things than having to stay at home and be cozy.
xxooxx
Gabi
LOL, started playing the Oboe because of that! A girl after my own heart! Love it, Gabi! xoxo
Oh wasn’t he PERFECT in ‘The Enchanted April’?! So agree Gabi…I’m sure I’m not the only one who was a little bit sorry that Miranda Richardson didn’t leave her (frankly) oafish husband for him….!! xoxo
Had to go search for Enchanted April for perfect morning background to blog-comments reading! ❤️
How old is precious Jack?
He’s 8!
Happy 4th of July, although it will be so different this year, enjoy the difference. I love seeing your blog posts come in to my inbox, it adds joy to the day and after reading it I feel refreshed like I have had a visit with a friend. I was thinking about you and Joe and your love of England. I don’t know if you have discovered this wonderful show on the Smithsonian channel or app if you get it. It is called An American Aristocrat’s Guide to Great Estates. An American Vicountess travels to all the stunning castles in England and Scotland giving tours. It has allowed us to travel during this pandemic without leaving home. Looking forward to the new desk blotter to brighten my home office, thank you for doing them. Stay well and safe, Terri
Thank you for that Terri, I’ll check it out!
You are the lifter-upper of spirits, Susan Branch! I always feel better after I’ve read your blog and looked at your charming pictures. Thank you.
Congratulations, it’s a book!! 🥰 Thanks for being you and sharing your world with us. I also love Vera Lynn. Gratefully, Annette. Oh, Garden Radio, what a divine idea♥️♥️
Thanks, Susan, for your perky report. Congrats on completing Home for Christmas! Now you can enjoy your summer on the Vineyard. Loved the Vera Lynn video, too. What ever became of Enchanted???
Back burner . . . broke my wrist!
Oh Susan you brightened my day. I am ordering 2 books right this minute. At 81, I still believe and that’s a good thing. Very hot in NC and a sea breeze would be lovely. Thanks to you for all you do and thanks for you. Judy
I was so happy to see this post and am so excited for the new book!!!! I cannot believe you’re almost done! The cover is perfection.
I missed out on the favorite things cup (again!) Would you consider making another order if there are enough requests? Or how about another new cup to go along with your book? I’ll be first in line.
Happy Fourth of July to you, Joe and of course Jack too!
I’ll work on it Laura Anne!
Are you working on a new book about England and when will it be coming out? We loved A Fine Romance and are hoping for another.
Yes, I hope to get back to it soon! It’s got soooooo much goodness in it. Broke my wrist last year at this time. Was a setback!
I love the picture of your kitty looking out the door. We have that going on at our house, too, but our door peeper is an orange tabby. Kat will stare out the door window for hours watching anything going on in the yard. And he always lets us know when a bird is on the porch!
Yes, Jack chatters at birds, but he goes running-berserk from window to window if another cat comes into the yard!
I’ve been “anticipating” your next post. Needed some happiness news! Thank you!
Susan, I am so excited to be able to attend your tea party! I don’t know how these things are set up either – but I celebrated both Easter and my four year old granddaughter’s birthday on Zoom, as well as hours of home-school with my first grade grandson. And somehow celebrated my oldest son’s fortieth birthday (how old am I?) on Facebook Messenger Live. I am hopeful we can all figure this out and celebrate together! Happy DamPanic!
Happy DamPanic Maryellen, we’re getting through it!
Thank you again for a lovely visit to your world. As always, I feel refreshed when I’m through. Love the book and calendars and can’t wait to add them to my life. Also a peek at Jack is always a highlight. One question……is the island open to tourists? If not, how will those who depend on summer income survive? I have no travel plans until fall (if that even!) and am worried about those resort areas who are hurting.
Stay safe and keep those posts coming!!
It’s open. So what is happening is that people who live here, if they can, are staying home. But shop owners, who need the income, have to be out there . . . there are signs on the shop doors to wear masks and not crowd, and it’s all going okay, so far. We actually went a month without new cases! But they have started up in the last 2 days . . . we figure it will be bad again by September, but maybe calm down after that if we islanders just continue to isolate. What a strange way to live! But we do what we have to do!
Thank you so much for the info & tape of Vera Lynn! My mom
In law was in the army in WWII stationed overseas & would always sing her songs & tell me about her- she passed also at 103- now there is sweeter music in heaven❣️
Thanks for the memories🎶 Yay for the flag!🇺🇸
Sweeter music in heaven, and the most wonderful legacy left for all of us.💞💞💞 xoxoxo
Christmas bright on the first of July! Hooray & thank you!
Hello from East Sandwich, I grew up in Falmouth and have been a fan of yours for 20 + years. I have had the pleasure of meeting you over the years at Booksmith in Falmouth and Titcombs in East Sandwich. I even brought you a cake plate I found at Christmas Tree Shops that was using your design. I hope that you put a stop to that. Growing up in Falmouth and learning to swim at Surf Drive Beach, MVY looks close enough to touch. I always say I think I can see SB’s porch light on. I have enough of you products to start my own SB shop. Your scrapbooking supplies started my love of your artwork. I created my very first scrapbook from your wedding albums and stickers. Since the pandemic hit I’ve taken the time to craft again. Thank you for all that you do. These are difficult times and your artwork and blogs, make all the difference.
So sweet Andrea, I remember your name! xoxoxo
Dear Susan, an estate/yard sale on line sounds wonderful! Looking forward to it and all your calendars and Christmas book. Enjoy your accomplishment. Well done girlfriend. ❤️Debby
Yay! Just got extremely excited when I saw “Susan Branch Blog” in my inbox! Your newsletters let me escape if only for a couple of minutes! Much needed right now! Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Loved this! Have already preordered the “little things” cup and a couple of the books and now need to order a couple of the Christmas cups! Thanks for brightening my day!
What a small world, after all! I’m from Indiana and last fall a group of us flew to Boston and had a jaunt out to Martha’s Vineyard! I wonder if we walked by your beautiful home. We were only there for a few hours but it was so great to walk about and have lunch on your island! AND … we used to live in a little town next to the small town of Crawfordsville, Indiana! My husband’s secretary’s husband worked at your publishing company there! Love that your book is MADE IN AMERICA and in our precious Hoosier state.
👏👏👏 We drove there one time . . . love your Hoosier state!
Happy 4TH🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Yes, please have a “garage” sale online!
Oooh…a perfect post that was like a Christmas in July gift to read! Looking forward to the Christmas book…and Santa bringing a vaccine !
Oh so perfect that you were there in my in box today!!
Just finished reading “Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams” for the 3rd time now on to “A Fine Romance” again. I read them slow and savor them. My mom read “A Fine Romance” a couple years ago when she was 97 and loved it ( and she was not a reader) . Last book she read before we lost her 3 months ago. A very special lady!
Love your Musica selections and your style. Everything I love too. We might related! 🙂 I’ve got out my watercolors from high school and am painting again. Thanks for all the inspiration!
Those sweet small memories, aren’t they wonderful? 💞 Happy painting Laurie!
Look forward to that beautiful HOME FOR CHRISTMAS! Can’t wait to get my hands on it .
Your work is always lovely & makes me smile ! Much needed in these very troubling times we are facing as a nation ….pretty much it seems on our own . Wearing masks-washing my hands constantly …kinda living like my raccoon friends in our beautiful Galena Forest . Yes I want a vaccine for COVID19 for Christmas.
Thank you for sharing a glimpse of the shadows of your home & garden with us .
Love hearing what your up to in that gorgeous island .
Hugs -Penny from Mt.Rose
LOL, like raccoons! ❤️
Hi AP! I’ve got your back! Ordered Susan’s Christmas book for us! 😘
I love it when you guys talk to each other!!! xoxoxo
Will you ever offer a cup with beautiful big orange poppies with the fuzzy long green stems? If not can you suggest where I might find one? I also let the cup featuring your beautiful boy kitty slip away without ordering. Will he ever be offered again? Thank You.
I love California poppies, that would be a fun cup to do! [email protected]/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ is keeping score as to which cups people would like me to make again! I think others have asked for Jack cup too!
Just what I needed today. I’m recovering from major surgery and feeling blue about being stuck in bed for the third week. I hurried to order the Christmas book. Something to look forward to <3 . I can't wait to hear more about the cards and wrapping paper for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
This too shall pass Ruth, you keep doing what you’re doing. I’m sure it’s a drag (to put it in the vernacular) but it will be over soon. I broke my wrist last year at this time, and here we are, one year later, and I’m a painting fool! Get well soon!
Happy, the corgi, and I are headed to our summer place in Colorado. Can’t wait to breathe some mountain air. Love you, Sue!
Happy 4th and congrats on your new book!!💕
Happy 4th of July. Did you see Olivia DeHavilland turns 104 today? There’s a great photo out there of her riding her 3 wheeled bicycle last year on her 103rd. My mother turns 95 tomorrow so I showed her the photo for inspiration. She said there was no way she was going to climb on a bike at her age. And Susan, please consider using your Bella Luna mug design on a nightlight. It would be perfect. I can’t wait for the new book and the new calendars. My favorites are always the desk calendar and the purse sized one. The purse sized one travels everywhere with me. Thank you!
What a cute idea for a nightlight! xoxo