Hello everyone! How are you doing? Lots of good news here in the House of Creativity, which it better be with all this stay at home stuff. But as you’re about to see, we went out for lunch! For the first time since March! MUSICA
I AM smiling under there! Love the way masks make my ears more elf-like than normal. Took our books and the newspaper and went to Edgartown for lunch! Was this a good thing to do? We won’t know for sure for 14 days.😷 So far, so good. Most people were wearing masks, but we also saw a few whole families NOT doing it. So that was a bit scary. But really, most were showing their children that we’re all in this together! 
It was excellent people watching! The passing parade. And everyone seemed to have brought their dogs. It’s disconcerting to see how much the world has changed, people in masks doesn’t feel real. I was so happy the dogs didn’t have to wear them. And they were all smiling!
We had a lovely lunch, but I admit, after that guy on the street sneezed without a mask which sparkled in the sunlight as it whizzed by us way too close at 
20mph ~ and then, realizing there was no way to buy an ice cream cone in Edgartown while distancing 😲, we gave up, and felt much happier driving around in the car. Our little island did so well for a while, we went a whole month with no new cases. . . but now, things relaxed, and there have been eleven new cases this last week!
So we had fun driving around town and looking at the sweet old houses and gardens . . .
In Vineyard Haven, where we live, it was a very hot, humid, sunny day … but 20 minutes away in Edgartown, it was fogged in, cool, and delightful!
Joe thought you’d like to see the Edgartown jail!
We drove home via Beach Road. On the right of this long line of parked cars is the ocean. Not too many open parking places!
If you had planned to come to the island this year and then didn’t, here is a little island-fix for you. A trip to the beach, completely sunburn and covid-free.
Beach paths . . .
Families . . .
Umbrellas, sand and surf . . .
Playing in the park . . .
And tons of boats! All the things of summer on an island.
This is more my speed . . . 5 mph, but only 3 on foot.
Going slow . . .
Our walk is heaven as always . . .
. . . only thing that ever changes out here are the seasons. Soon we’ll be picking wild blueberries that grow along the road.
Once in a while we stumble upon evidence of other humans.
We have to go really early these days, it gets too hot and buggy later on, but look at the reward!
We hardly see anyone on our walk, which is good because Joe and I are especially lovely to look at out there. We each carry a dishtowel, which we swat back and forth, over our shoulders, behind our backs, across our legs . . . the trick to keeping the mosquitoes away. I’m not crazy about wearing bug spray on a daily basis!
And to all of you dreaming about turning in the summer heat for a windy, crisp, fall day, I have good news: The trees are “rethinking” their leaves! Every so often we spot a red leaf among the green ~ this one came drifting down in front of us. I had to bring it home.👏
First thing we do when we get home is wash our hands in hot water… and we have the BEST kitchen soap. It’s so silky and soft and makes such a good lather . . . I’ve used it at my kitchen sink for years (never wild about the look of plastic bottles on my counter). Love it so much, I thought you would too, so I got it for our web store.
It smells wonderful . . . provides aroma therapy too, lavender fragrance promotes calmness and wellness, reduces stress and anxiety.💞 Things we need more of these days!
I also found the same wooden soap holder I have, so it’s a set! It is the little things in life! I’m happy every time I use it! I sent it to my Virgo sister and she loves it too. Like Good Housekeeping approved!
Gazpacho seems to be my go-to dinner recipe these days. So bright and clean tasting, healthy, crunchy, and icy cold! I’ve made it three times so far! Starting to want to DO something about these dampanic pounds I’ve gained.
If you haven’t made it this summer, don’t forget to do it. While the tomatoes are juicy and fresh!🍅
I know I’m not the only person who takes pictures like this. Because it’s beautiful. Little vases, soap suds, old sink. Soul satisfying.
That’s not rain! It’s humidity! I know. Feel sorry for us. But Joe put in window air-conditioners downstairs so we are very happy and comfy. And our clothes on the line look like a watercolor painting through the windows!
I was excited to see a big box land on the kitchen porch yesterday ~ look what was inside! 2021 Calendars! They turned out great. Color is perfect!
I keep being asked if I did an “England photo calendar” again this year. The answer is, I did do a photography calendar, but it’s not “England” . . .
. . . for 2021 it’s “This Old House, A Year on Martha’s Vineyard.” Here’s a sample page for March. Jack (ham-cat) makes an appearance in every month!
They should all arrive at the Studio next week!
So guess what? There’s an event! And everyone’s invited no matter where in the world you live! It’s on August 19th at 1pm EST! I’ll be doing something new, dampanic-inspired, and fun! It’s a Zoom Party, originating from Duxbury, MA, but I’ll be at home! I’ll be talking about my favorite subject and telling a slide-show story of going to the English Countryside! And I’d love to take you along!
It’s free, you can read more about it and sign up to receive a zoom invitation by going to www.duxburyseniorcenter.org. Signed copies of books will be available, I’ll also get to introduce my new book Home 
for Christmas… we’ll have a door prize . . . guests can ask questions … and I’m not sure what else! My first time! Come!
And if you’d like me to do one of these Webinars for your local bookstore, call them and tell them! This worked so well last time and I’d love to! I think I almost
have Joe talked into making personal appearances! Bookstores can contact me at [email protected]. We’d planned to drive across country this year and meet everyone in person, but we finally had to give up on that idea . . . would love to do some fun Zoom talks and see you there! ❤️ We could have virtual tea parties! I have one planned with the wonderful family-owned Titcombs Bookstore on the Cape, and there are others . . . I’ll put up a calendar with dates and times soon.
And another surprise . . . for all of you who’ve preordered Home for Christmas, I made a special bookmark 
that we’re going to tuck into each book. Because we can! I can’t wait to see the finished thing . . . we should have them the end of August! For those first days of fall.
I thought you’d like to see a page from the new book … We’ll have to save it, light candles, make tea, and read it at Christmas. Gives me chills!I have an update on the cups. First, the bad news: The first cups they made didn’t look right to the manufacturer. So they sent me a photo, and they were 
right, they were waaaay too light. Which means they have to make new lithographs. Which means a delay. We won’t get them now until end of August, first of September. I’m so sorry but I knew you wouldn’t like them the way they were! Please let [email protected] know if this will be a problem for you. We know what a great job this wonderful British manufacturer does and they want it to be right. BUT! The GOOD NEWS is that this delay allowed me to add more of them to the order. So anyone who didn’t get one before they sold out has another chance!👏 Kind of a little miracle if you think about it. We thought it was a done deal!
What else? Oh yes, something I wanted to share with you. Staying at home DOES get hard ~ not everyone has to do it, thank goodness, but many of us do, and luckily we have the Internet! There are so MANY special things going on. So much creativity! British Time Out Magazine has created an issue called Time In! So go HERE and be totally inspired! 
And as our girlfriend Nancy T. so sweetly suggested, “Be a lighthouse in this rocky island of craziness!” This too shall pass.❤️
And you know what else? Some of you DO know I’ve been designing my first puzzle. This is it. It’s done. And being manufactured by the same people who make my calendars! And yes, Kellee is putting it up for presale later this afternoon ~ it’s something new, so we’re trying to figure out how many we should order. I laid it out in the living room . . . it’s 1000 pieces, 27″ across, 20″ down. Called “For the Love of Books.” What do you think? We hope everyone likes it, then I’ll get to do more!
We’ve had fun FaceTime visits with Paul and Rachel and even had a walk through their English (and I mean that literally) garden! But the thing I miss the most when I see my friends these days are the hugs! Joe is doing double duty these days!💞
We’ve also been taking night-time walks through our neighborhood ~ the fireflies are everywhere, more than I’ve ever seen, I guess because of the humidity, and they’re lighting up the night with their magic!
We have some great shadows. . .
Love the moon, open windows and music and bookcases and cats on sills . . .
And home sweet home we go . . . to book and bed. Hope you enjoyed your island visit, but I can’t go without sending love to all our girlfriends and their families everywhere, especially in parts of the world being hit hard by the virus. In the midst of sorrow and 
catastrophe, we’ve seen stunning feats of selflessness and compassion. Our frontline workers are so brave. I think if I were them I might threaten to go on strike if everyone doesn’t wear a mask. Why do they risk their lives and the lives of their families for us, I’ll never know. But I’m filled with gratitude for these amazing heroes. If I was in charge, they would all get a raise! Right now! Some of them are reading this, 💖 some of you have sons and daughters on front lines. Thank you 🙏, and please thank them. Special prayers for everyone in Florida, Arizona, California, Georgia, Texas ~ I heard something on TV 
the other day, “This virus is strong, but Texas is stronger.” And that is the truth for all of us, we are stronger than this, and in the end, if we never give up, if we join together 💞, we will win. I just wish we’d get it over with! Aren’t you done? I’m so done! But too bad for us, the virus has the last word!
Love you all . . . this post is too long! Next time I’ll do better. XOXOXO 
I had to laugh – I’ve made your recipes for Gazpacho twice and Vichyssoise three times. NOTHING like cold soup on a hot day! Both are delicious. Thank you for them and stay well.
Glad to see that you and Joe are okay. I’m disappointed that the Zoom event is closed for registration. I was looking forward to that special event.
Try again Ann… they’re working to make it larger!
Thank you, Susan, for another fun filled blog. These difficult, crazy times have me cherishing everything homey and comforting – like your blogs and tweets.
I love the puzzle and will order it next. So many good things in your blog today. So much to look forward to! And your blogs are NEVER too long.
Mosquitoes are ferocious here in North Carolina. I hate smelly bug repellents. This year I am using Johnson&Johnson’s Baby Cream Oil Aloe & Vitamin E. Not oily, just cream in a green tube. It works!!!
Susan,
Thank you for your lovely emails. Love, love, love them. It’s fun to see how you all are doing on the East Coast. I have been getting out to walk my dogs early between 6:00-7:00. It’s a different world out there. Hopefully we will get through this dampanic sooner than later. Everyone stay safe.
Thank you Susan for brightening our day. I can’t wait to read your new 📖. I love puzzles and I can’t wait to complete it. I looks so lovely. Once again you are spoiling your fans with all the new things. Your blog and the photos definitely made today special. Thank you.
None of your lovely posts are too long , Susan! xoxo
Thank you for a wonderful post. I am looking forward to your new Christmas book. Yes it is hard working when people do not wear masks. I get so tense at work, because of this. Though there are quite a few people who do wear masks and thank me for doing my job.
Thank you Susan! Just what we need at this time. Encouraging, loving words from you.
Thank you so much for bringing of bit of light into these dark times.
I’ve been unable to visit my Newport, RI friends this year, and your Martha’s Vineyard photos gave me a little bit of New England seaside. Stay healthy and happy!
I love doing 1000 piece puzzles! And I love books! So excited that you designed a puzzle! Can’t wait to get it! Thanks for your island tour. My hubby and I were thinking a couple months ago about coming to Martha’s Vineyard ( on my bucket list) to celebrate our 30th anniversary but have decided to put that off until we can enjoy it fully without fear of coronavirus and having to wear a mask. I’ll get there one day! Thanks for what you do!
Alabama needs your love, too!🌈🇺🇸👍🏻
You have it, xoxoxo
I scrolled back up but can’t see how that house is a jail. ???
No fireflies (lightning bugs) here, must be to hot.
It is, the only one on the island!
An ironing board, a table cloth and Jack! What else could anyone want? Blog too long? Never! Never long enough. Always sad to think of fall so the lest said is fine by me. I know I guess you like it. Beyond my understanding. To each his (or her) own.
LOL! I’d love it to last all year! 😘
Oh my gosh Susan, you are making me SO HAPPY! I managed to get another of the little things mug which makes me happy, and I MUST have that puzzle, and I signed up for the book party and I CANNOT WAITTTTTT!!!!!
And if we have to stay in, at least now I have the chance to really make my house beautiful!
Oh that makes me so happy Emily! And me too, time for a good housecleaning! xoxo
Thank you for a bright spot in the day when I can sit and read the blog savoring every moment with a cup of tea. Can’t wait to do the zoom in August and I am ready and waiting to order my desk blotter for next year. It brings so much happiness to my desk. We are doing our part and staying home, wearing masks whenever we are out. Here in California we are being hit hard and it is tragic. Looking forward to the day that life feels somewhat normal again and so many aren’t sick and losing their lives. Stay well and safe. Terri
Thank you for always making my day happy with your Blog and the wonderful items, memories and pictures! Fireflies are a wonderful summer memory for me and although I don’t miss the humidity of living back East I do miss them.
Oh, OH OH, Susan! Your posts are NEVER too long. I call them my “heart booster!” I’m so happy to see a new heart booster. I go online for news, the earthquakes in Alaska right now, the floods in Japan and India, and China, the huge tropical storm and hurricane getting stronger in the Atlantic and Pacific today, (my son is a weatherman and he gets excited if they’re not too dangerous), but I am rather like Charlie Brown and get frightened a bit reading these things. You are a welcome reprieve in the ugly aspects of life in our world today, so please do not apologize for the ray of sunshine you are.
My daughter makes handmade soaps too, lots of “flavors” and are they not just wonderful? I worry store bought may be killing our oceans, so I am blessed she keeps us supplied with Lavender, my fav; Oatmeal, my husband’s fav; tea tree and rosemary to name a few. Any-who, a puzzle is just the ticket for us here in AZ when we’re terrified to go out anywhere again, so I am going to order one for us Hermits. God bless and please keep safe. –dezi
Same to you and your family Dezi. 💞
I just ordered your 2021 calendar – fell in love with the oven:)
Here’s hoping that 2021 is a whole new start for America!
Two posts in one month? I’m in Heaven! Tell Joe if that’s the jail I’ll commit a crime! They should put everyone who chooses not to wear a face covering there! Dr. Fauci said if everyone wore a mask and washed their hands and stayed at least 6 feet from one another, this would be over shortly. Instead I cringe when hearing about Covid parties……Covidoits! I’ve ordered your latest book and so happy to hear you’ve included a surprise! Yeah! I also ordered that calendar and can’t wait to have it hanging in my home. For years now your art has been on my wall! I’ll be at Titcomb’s as soon as you announce it/and if it’s safe! I also ordered two cups and don’t mind a bit if they take a little longer. I have my shelf full of your other ones and even thought I was being a little selfish ordering more; but I think we all have to treat ourselves a little more these days if we can’t go out and get ice cream! Thank you dear girlfriend! Love from the Cape to MV!
I know, I heard him say 8 weeks till we’d have it under control. But the poor guy has been demonized, and half the country won’t listen to him! Those kids that had a prize for the first one of them to get it first!!! 😵 I won’t BE at Titcombs, or anywhere, it will all be done via Zoom, we’ll all be safe in our own little homes … no crowds to gather and infect! Love your “treat theory.” 😘 xoxo
First of all, that Edgartown Jail looks like a lovely place to do time. 🙂
Secondly, that picture of your drippy windows from humidity is what our windows look like every day in Texas right now. And my glasses when I walk outside. And then wearing a face mask makes them fog up too. It’s getting really old. 🙂
I’m with you on being done with this thing!
LOL. Plan your crime spree carefully! 💞
I looked in the store for the wooden soap dish and soap. I can’t find it. ??
oops, Kellee is putting it up now… sorry!
There should be no fear if people are seen without a mask. But since it’s not a perfect world, irrational fear will exist. I hope and pray that people have faith rather than fear. We can rise above fear with a great faith in God, our creater. If even one person decides not to fear today, it will give God the glory😍. Let’s celebrate summer with true peace🍓🍉🍧😘
Pray to God but continue to row for shore. God gave us our scientists and healthcare workers so they could relieve our pain and suffering. It’s a beautiful thing. So grateful. ❤️
Oh, Susan,
Just the breath of fresh air I needed today. I am thrilled that I pre-ordered your book and looking forward to the book mark tucked inside. To help with my distancing, I have taken to my deck in the early morning, re-reading my cook books which include many of yours. Nothing like good food and great company. Stay safe be well and I cannot wait for my book to arrive.
Sincerely,
Lucy DiJulio
Thank you! I can hardly wait for my book and bookmark!
It’s always such a happy moment when, after looking every few days for awhile, I see that you have indeed put up a new post! Thanks for the sunshine and beauty. Glad you both are doing well.
Dear Susan – You truly live in paradise, and the wonderful thing is that you chose it, and made it on your own. You get to live where former presidents and stars want to live. If I didn’t admire you so much, I would be so jealous. Okay, truth – I am jealous, but I still love you!
LOL, don’t be, I’m still me, with all the normal me-ness we all have! I was lucky to find this place before it got too popular! When there was a house waiting for me that only cost a buck two-ninety! All miracles, all the time! xoxo
Hi Susan! We’re slowly but surely getting settled here in Midcoast Maine! I downsized before we moved but I’m downsizing more. I’ve been crafting and reading. There’s a wonderful book out called “Wild!, Weird! Wonderful! Maine” by Eric Brechlin. It is both interesting and fascinating! Before we left we both had Covid tests with negative results, thank goodness. We did our quarantining thing and our new neighbors were kind enough to fill out fridge and freezer for us. Our doggies did very well on the long journey, including the ferry trip. We wear our masks wherever we go; I bought some funky ones at our local farmers’ market. It is such a treat to go out to dinner. The restaurants here all have outdoor dining and distanced indoor dining. And, I was able to get my hair cut! The things we all took for granted are now special treats. We take long walks on our beach and are enjoying living more simply. Stay safe and well and enjoy the Summer and all it has to offer! Thank you for another wonderful blog. Love, Karen :-). Xoxo
Congratulations Karen, you did it!!! During a Pandemic! Must feel wonderful to have all of that work and uncertainty in the rearview window!👏💞
Love this post! Thank you! It sounds like Martha’s Vineyard is like Mt Desert Island now – we were doing really well but now we’re FULL of tourists! Some wear masks and practice distancing. I’m not working on the island this summer, thank goodness – recording music for our Zoom church services once a week, shopping only every 10 days to two weeks, wearing the mask every day, doing my own contact tracing. I go fishing a bit. I’ve only had takeout from restaurants, haven’t dined outside yet and don’t expect to fora long time. I miss restaurants. I miss travel. I REALLY miss Canada! I’m lonely. I miss people! Damn panic!!!
But my dog and cat are SO happy. I hope that you and Joe continue to be well!
I’m glad you’re here Robin, we need you! Hugs!
from “deep in the heart of Texas”…. Texas is strong…. along with many, many Americans. Loved “our visit”… reminding you it is close to 100 here in Texas AND
we also have mosquitos (heat seems to be their friend).
Your message is always uplifting as well as down to earth. Thank you for sharing your world. I could take you on a walk around my neighborhood and you would see yards that are drooping in the heat; as well as vegetable gardens in their last days of withstanding the heat. (a tomato or two; maybe a cucumber).
At the same time there are voices of happy children in pools, the red birds, painted buntings and hummingbirds visit early and sunsets in the cloudless skies are pure gold…perfect days for a freezer of homemade ice cream and old fashioned pound cake. It may be HOT in the Lone Star state, but everyone is braving our new world in mask, smiling eyes and perseverance!
I would like a Susan Branch mask please!
Your posts are never too long! I love them! I’m so excited for the puzzle. I live in Texas and am not going anywhere so a new puzzle will be so fun!! I wanted to mention to you that we use cedar wood oil as a bug repellent. It’s natural and smelly but works well for us. It’s the only thing I feel safe using on my young grandkids. Just a thought.
Thank you for a lovely uplifting post. It was so wonderful to see that gorgeous East Coast beach!
Thank you for your upbeat post. I needed it after the last few days, and it brought not only a tear to my eye but a feeling that the world isn’t coming to an end. There is still hope and kindness in the world. Whenever I’m feeling anxious or depressed about the current state of the world, I just need to remember how positive you are. It’s the simple things and holding on to our loved ones which will get us through. Thank you for reminding me this is best way to keep a smile on my face. Stay safe and healthy! Oh, and stay cool!
Nothing ever stays the same . . . let’s pray. and hope and keep on keeping on. Sending love. 💞
Thank you Susan – this was exactly what I needed today. Here in California, things are looking dark, and people are being foolish. You definitively brightened my afternoon.
Thanks so much for the trip to the island! I hadn’t planned on going anywhere today so it was a nice surprise! It hasn’t been as hard as i thought it would be to stay hunkered down. Being retired we don’t have to be anywhere so it isn’t that much different than real life! But…we do miss lunch out once in a while and our library just opened but we’re still kind of chicken! We also take walks in the yard and listen to the frogs and visit the lightning bugs (we’re midwestern!) We also bookmarked the northern lights page to see later thank you! So stay safe! Be thankful if you’re healthy and pray for those who aren’t. Love MB
Your posts are never too long! My half brother was on island last week. Such a special place! I hope to visit in Sept 2021 after my 50th high school reunion in Dedham!
Thank you for your stunning island pictures.
They came at the perfect time, too to brighten my dreary day. Not only am I freaking out living here in Florida with the relentless virus but today for some unknown reason two of my beautiful cats were taken right out of my fenced yard by coyotes! Like a flash they were gone….my heart is bleeding. I am shaking in disbelief!
What next ?
So needless to say your beautiful email arrived just when I needed it most! Thank You!
Stay safe. Stay well
OMG, I’m sorry. I’m huge when it comes to nature, but thieving coyotes and cats and dogs is where I draw the line. I’m so sorry you lost your kitties. Think of something nice to do for yourself and do it. You deserve a break today! xoxoxoxoxo💝
As always Susan, what a lovely post. I LOVE your mom… “we are rich…”such a precious memory! My husband was here and I read it to him…and he too agreed it was very special. Then everything else in the post was equally lovely — just what this weary heart needed today. Thank you for the bookmark bonus – I am eagerly awaiting your book…it’s nice to have things to look forward to in times like this — when it arrives, we’ll be farther down the path and hopefully closer to life returning to normal (that’s what I want to say…) but hopefully life will be better than now – missing my people.
Your posts are NEVER too long. I’m always a little sad when I realize its the end. Love seeing all the pictures of your outing, especially since we can’t travel like we usually do during the summer. Thanks for being a ray of sunshine that our world so desperately needs right now. Stay well and stay safe.
That was so refreshing and filled with hope. Thank you Susan. Big sigh. I loved your entire post, all the ups and downs. I am very excited to hear about the new puzzle coming up. I love a good puzzle and doing one of yours will be delightful. Squeals of happiness! Yes I am so ready for this to be over. In the meantime I will read this post over and over and over again, drink tea out of my favorite SB mug and hug my kitty Louie. Hugs to you all~
Susan , One thing your posts never are is too long!!! I am re-reading A Fine Romance w/magnifying glass this time–to really see and enjoy those gorgeous photos even bigger! Tried to sign up for the Zoom but it was already full. (I saw how fast it filled up-I got it just an hr after you sent in out.)
Thank You for making the world alot brighter!! I can hardly wait for my bluebird cup:) In this lasting forever pandemic it is now more than every important to cherish beauty and nurturing things that make life better where and when we can. Glad that you are doing well. Look forward to every blog, Gail
Try again Gail, if you like, they are trying to make more space!💞
I was so excited when I opened my e-mail and saw that there was a new blog post, I actually squealed! I registered for the zoom invitation as soon as I saw it on Facebook. I’m so excited for that. Yes, I am so tired of this virus, and all the restrictions, but also frustrated at the people who refuse to take it seriously. The other day I had to run into 2 stores, one to pick up a birthday card and the other for a pork shoulder roast so I could make pulled pork. I was the only person in either store with a mask on! And, yes, we do have active cases in our tiny rural county. We had 8 in one day last week, and 11 on Monday of this week. When are people going to start taking it seriously here?! I know, I’m preaching to the choir. Sorry. I worry so much about what is going to happen when school starts again in a few weeks. We shall see, I guess. I’m glad you were able to get out for lunch. I haven’t done that yet. Our air conditioner broke on Saturday, and we found out we have to replace the whole system, to the tune of almost $10k. Yikes! Anyway, my husband knew it was too hot in the house to cook, so he ran out and picked up dinner for us. That’s the first time in 5 months that we’ve even done that. I’ve been using the crockpot and Instant Pot a lot since then. No need to heat up the whole kitchen. Hopefully, the new air conditioner will be installed before the week is over. Our house is large enough that we have a separate system for the upstairs, and it still works, so we can sleep well at night. Something to be thankful for. Take care, Susan and Joe. Continue to stay safe. And thank you for your wonderful positive words of encouragement. They are always welcome, but especially during these trying times.
That’s terrible, so many cases on one day in a tiny place, very scary. All that and the broken air-conditioning system. EEEEK! But it sounds like they are on it, and you’ll be cool before long! Stay safe Mary Ann, keep away from that air-conditioning man! 😘💖
Oh, please make the blogs as long as you like, they are a haven of escapism in this crazy world. I am getting ready to bake a cake and scones for the FaceTime cream tea with my Mum back in England. I told her to expect a surprise delivery on Friday, but didn’t tell her about the full cream tea I am having delivered to her! So excited that we get to share this together, even though we are thousands of miles apart! I also have a secret to tell you…Next Wednesday I will become a dual citizen and be able to vote for the first time after living in the USA for 20 years! I will then also be able to go and stay in the UK and look after my Mum, should she ever need it, for longer than 6 months if necessary…and be able to travel freely between both countries without worrying about any pandemic bans. Of course, I will be wearing a Tyvec suit, 2 face masks, goggles and a face shield 🤣😂. I don’t care if I look ridiculous…I cannot risk passing anything on to my Mum, her safety is my top priority because I love her so! Being a retired nurse and microbiologist, I have planned meticulously to take every precaution. I am tentatively planning on going for Christmas…hubby and my daughters will have to survive without me and my cooking for once!
Nutmeg and Poppy send soft purrs to Jack!
Stay safe ❤️
OH MY GOODNESS. I’m so happy with you. Love your travel garb, I would do the same thing. I would like to buy a camper van (with bathroom and kitchen etc, not too big) and drive it onto the Queen Mary (which you’re actually not allowed to do) and be like a turtle carrying its house (like you in that outfit), and go to ENGLAND for Christmas like YOU! I’m thrilled for your dual citizenship, and love everything I hear about your relationship with your mum. Have a lovely teatime surprise. 💖 Love to Nutmeg and Poppy!
I cannot wait to get your new puzzle! I love puzzles and books! Thank you so much for the island tour! My hubby and I were thinking a couple of months ago about trying to take a trip to martha’s vineyard for our 30th wedding anniversary soon. But we have decided to wait until we can enjoy it more fully without fear of coronavirus or having to wear a mask. Martha’s Vineyard is on my bucket list of places to go. One day I will make it there! Thanks for what you do!
Hi Susan! Just picked up a new computer, (curbside) and yours is the very first thing I opened! The colors are so bright! I have been missing out with my ten-year old one. My daughter in law is a nurse and she, my son and two of my grandbabies have all been fighting it. 🙁 So sad to think of their little bodies dealing with this, but they are all almost over it, I think, thank goodness. As my son said, Covid is definitely NOT the flu! I wish people would quit thinking of this in terms of personal freedom and just wear the mask!! For themselves and their loved ones. And mine. Take care and stay safe! Love from Texas…
Oh nooo Kathy, it’s so hard when a whole family gets it. I’m so glad they are getting better. Thank you for your loving words. 👏😘
You have such wonderful posts! I much prefer the ones where masks and COVID-19 are not mentioned but this is life right now and we must make the best of it.
Blessings to you, Joe and Jack!
Could not agree more!🤣
I’ll be first in line for that puzzle!! More happy anticipation for my bird cup coming later in the year ~ that’s okay. In the meantime I’m enjoying my star cup! Thank you for posting all the lovely pictures of where you live ~ I’m in Southern California ~ I’ve never been to New England or anywhere east of Oklahoma ~ someday….it’s so lovely there. But I love California so here I am! Take much care. (I love staying at home.)
California is beautiful too . . I was born and raised there, and love it forever.
From deep in the heart of Texas….yes, Texas is strong but then so are many, many Americans!
So enjoyed your message..as always you “hit the mark” and encourage us to think about what each of us have…in our own backyard. I could take you on walk in my neighborhood and could share the drooping grasses and plants; vegetable gardens making their last stand against the ever-present heat..(well, maybe a tomato or two will pop up)… AT the same time you would hear happy voices of children in neighborhood pools, red birds, painted buntings and hummingbirds appearing early and then late, and sunsets of gold in the cloudless skies…the perfect time for homemade ice cream and pound cake. We are all enduring this new world with masks… smiling eyes and perseverance. May our America remain strong!
It’s sounds like summer! 👏☀️😎🌻
Thank you, thank you! Dear, dear, person that you are! We have our differences, but your lovely soul finds the places where we meet. And those are beautiful places!
Thank you, this is exactly what I needed today. I live in Texas and most people I see in the grocery stores wear masks but not other places. So we just don’t go out much at all. I guess I don’t understand the problem with masks. It’s not political. It’s just one of three things that will help us beat this horrible virus. Mask, wash hands, and stay 6 feet away from others. Kind of common sense to me. Just wish we could all send love, health, and peace to each other.
It’s a tool to win the war. Better than no tool at all! I do, I send you love health and peace, forever and ever. Amen. xoxo
The stone sculpture reminds me of an Inukshuk. I’ve seen many throughout my travels in Canada. Check out the one in Whistler, BC. Love the definition:
The Inukshuk (pronounced ih-nook-suuk) mirrors this Canadian spirit of friendship and community. … An Inukshuk in the shape of a person signifies safety, hope and friendship. These stone sculptures were also important for navigation, as a point of reference, as a marker for hunting grounds, or to denote a food cache.
Thank you Margaret, so interesting!💖
I love the picture of Jack on the ironing board. So sweet.
Greetings Sue, Joe and Jack and thanks for the lovely trip to the island! Our kids just returned from their trip to Katama while we had to remain at home in Atlanta. They brought all of their own food and only went to different beaches, no shopping, no ice cream treats, no Back Door donuts, no walking around Edgartown or Vineyard Haven. They didn’t even visit Island Alpacas, which we never miss. They were still very happy to be there, enjoyed neighborhood walks in the evening or strolls on South Beach as the sun set. They really needed a getaway and a break from staying home so it was good that they went. They didn’t even get out of the car on the boat but were so happy that they made the effort to get there. The little boys loved every minute!
Here in Georgia, I am pleased to report that masks are required at the grocery stores and that makes me happy. That is the only place I have been since March and so far, we have remained safe. I think the younger people are not afraid of this virus and are causing a lot of the recent cases. I was very surprised to read of eight cases from a party on Cuttyhunk! That is really something.
Take care and continue doing the good work of keeping our spirits up. Just hearing about the Zoom webinars and seeing calendars and puzzles has made my day brighter.
Love to you, Joe and Jack 💕😘
How smart your kids are. Staying away from the tourist spots are what I would suggest to anyone coming here just now. I KNOW, tiny Cuttyhunk island, they only have a year-round population of 200 … how awful. Pretty sure it all came from somewhere else. Really not fair. Love back to you Peg. Keep staying safe.❌⭕️
My husband and I really enjoyed all the island pictures. We got to visit your island last year, it was so fun to see the pictures and reminisce about our trip.
I have Lavender mosquito spray from Washington Island in Door County, WI. Smells mostly like lavender. I’ve used it the past few evenings watching the comet. Google either Fragrant Isle Lavender or Island Lavender Co.
Very inspiring visit to your island. Thank you for sharing. And loved the Time Out magazine. 🙂 Be safe!!
No, no, no — it wasn’t too long. I enjoyed every word and look for something worthwhile to boost my spirits every day. You did that today and I thank you. Looking forward to all the wonderful things I have preordered but in no hurry. I understand wanting to ‘get it right’. Stay healthy and happy.
Always wonderful to see your world on the Island! Thought of you this week as we started thinking about travel (next year) and you’ve inspired us to look into the Atlantic crossing on the cruise ship one way! (Had a quick chat with Joe about it at the book signing in Madison and it’s always interested us!) So fun to dream! Be well!
Oh Susan, your posts are never too long!! EVER 💕💕💕 Thanks for making my day brighter and cozier at the same time. I signed up for your Zoom talk. Keep your fingers crossed I do it right. Love you Carolyn
Keep YOUR fingers crossed I do it right too! 💞 We’re in it together!
There is a young man named Kaleb Wyse who has an Instagram page – WyseGuide and he’s like you, full of optimism and hope (and lots of great gardening and cooking tips). My husband asked why I followed him on Instagram and I said it’s way of looking at the world, and to see his dog Kip zoom around his garden. It is so much better than watching the news. I know things are bad out there, yet I don’t think it’s good to submerge ourselves in it.
Thank you once again Susan for bringing beauty and light into the world. Take care, stay well! Regards from an admirer in Virginia.
I watched him. Wonderful! Very good with basil! 😅💞
Kaleb’s homemade ice cream hits the spot these days! We went out to eat too, about a month ago, it just didn’t feel “right”, some people without masks, etc. Yep, taking the rest of the year off! I am officially retired per the Social Security Administration and glad of it.
Congratulations!!!
Thank you for the tour if the island. You’re a great tour guide. I wanted to go this year since I retired in January. Maybe Next year!🙏🏼 ❤️😷
Idaho needs your love, too. 💕 We’ve been put on the “hot zone” list. ☹ Ada county, where I live, has mandated masks and I’m grateful for that but we have a long way to go in order to get our positive test percentage down from 18.3 to 5. That’s where officials would like it to be in order to resume in-person learning at schools. Take care, Susan! And thank you for a much needed blog today. 😷
Idaho too? I thought you guys were so nice and safe up there. I’m so sorry! Mandated masks is so smart. That and shutting things down, fastest possible way to flatten the curve. Next time everyone opens up, masks should stay mandated! But I’m a tough mommy, I have rules!
Amen, Susan!
I’m so done with this, but still doing my part. Even us introverts liked going a few places. But now, I’ve even more reason to wish to dream of traveling…..our first grandchild (via adoption) has arrived!!! We live 850 miles away from this wee one. Trying to figure out a safe way to travel and visit almost gives me a panic attack wanting to keep us and them safe. Our conversations go round and round of when or how or if, and we end up at square one….wait and see. Doing all our ooooh-ing and aaawwweeee-ing via FaceTime. Thanking God for FaceTime!
I’m excited for your Zoom Booked for Lunch gathering!!! We use Zoom for our book club, and we all laugh at ourselves while trying to figure it out. 🙂
Love, Love, Love hearing from YOU! Sending Love, Love, Love back to you, Joe, and sweet Jack.
Yeah, suddenly realizing that introverting (what is that word!?) gets old after a while … especially when forced! Thank God for the Internet! Take care Lynn, love to you and to the bookclub! I’m STILL figuring out Zoom!
What a lovely visit with you. Thank you!
Thank you, Susan! Enjoyed every word. Would like to know the price of your Christmas book – where could I find? Also love the soap & would like to have that too. Today has not been good for me as I miss my husband so. Your blog does help though!!! I had two little wrens come this morning & jump into my flowers! Guess they were looking for bugs! They are so sweet. Take care & sending hugs!!
I’m so sorry Shirley, it has to be so hard. I can’t even imagine. 😢 As for the Christmas book, if you click on Shopping at the top of my blog, you’ll see it right there! Hugs to you. 💞
Thanks Susan for the always uplifting thoughts and photos—much needed.
Hope to join you on August 19th—I have your book and have time to re-read it!
Oh, dear, I’m afraid I’m gonna have to order that puzzle. I’ve been walking slowly past the puzzles I see but none have called to me–until now, Susan. Thanks for how you share your creativity with us. I’m always so glad to see you in my inbox.
We are so done with this closure. We do go to our local small town and find a place to have lunch outdoors. Masks until we sit at any variety of small places.
This is our daily adventure! Thanks for your post and Love to all!
I have wanted to pre-order a Heart of the Home wall calendar and the 2021-2022 wallet/pocket calendar. But I cannot see the wallet calendar listed. It shows up in your picture, so assume you did one. Have looked several times in the past few weeks. I did message customer service weeks ago, but never heard anything. But things are so crazy with the whole virus thing, I didn’t follow up again. I like to order all at once so shipping is consolidated.
It’s coming, I didn’t put it up for presale because we know we will have enough from the manufacturer. I was a little worried about the wall calendars, so I put them up to make sure all of us who wanted one gets one!
I was looking forward to this, and it never disappoints, thank you Susan! I love fireflies but haven’t seen any this year yet 🙁 Are we too far north in Vermont?
My daughter is on the Vineyard right now with her 2 children, wearing masks and avoiding crowds. They are loving Lambert’s Cove this year, yet are still loyal to Lobsterville Beach. They saw the Comet last night despite the humidity!
I’ve signed up for your Zoom event, what fun! Thank you for mentioning all the simple pleasures that I love. The photograph through the condensation on the window reminds me of Impressionist art, delightful. Be well, be kind (we all know YOU are!) and stay safe… I miss the hugs too
Fireflies are strange critters … normally I’m thrilled if I see 2 or 3 . . . they are having a banner year down here, but I don’t exactly know why! Glad to hear your daughter is here and enjoying herself with her children! I hope they get to take a dip in the ocean! xoxo
I live in southwest Alberta, Canada. I have never seen a firefly! I believe our nights are too cold here in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Communing with fireflies is high on my bucket list.
Laurie
=:3
I didn’t either until I moved here, it’s just so magical … add it to the pansies, a snowstorm, moonrise over the water!
Good to hear your positive comments…not enough of that going around these days. I think your puzzle idea is fabulous…keep them coming. I work jigsaw puzzles as therapy to get my mind off all things negative. That works pretty well. I don’t envy your weather…I am in Southern California so I know you know the weather here is pretty good. I was surprised to see humidity condensation sticking to your home’s windows…yikes! Take care Susan, your love affair with Joe reminds me of my marriage and some of my friend’s too. We are so blessed!
Your posts re never too long!:)
I do not have Pay Pal – how do I go about ordering? If you could send me an E-mail. Would like to order Christmas Book & soap (I did find the price, & Thanks). Thanks you!!!
Just below Pay Pal is credit cards . . . did you see it Shirley?
Thank you so much for this lovely ride around the island. I love reading your blog. They all lift my spirits and feed my soul. I’ve preordered your new book and can’t wait to receive it along with your bookmark. I just finished making a dozen bookmarks for a retirement home to add to their “Library Cart.” None of the residents can leave their apartments yet. God Bless you and Joe.
I have an uncle in a care home, and it just hurts to know he’s been so alone. He’s deaf. Makes it double hard. You are so kind to think of them. I imagine the tiniest light is huge when there are so few of them. xoxoxo
Your posts are never too long! Please don’t try to make them shorter. I eat up every word and relish every photo and watercolor illustration!
You provide such an emotional uplift with your blog and it feels so terrific to be connected with you!
Thank you for sharing yourself with us!
Much love and appreciation,
Chris in California
💞😘
Susan, your posts are never too long, I love reading them. The puzzle looks like fun. I have 2 cats which would love to help me put the puzzle together! One is a 3 yr old tabby who loves to get in to mischief and will probably run off with some pieces and the other 6 yr old black and white who I know will just sit on the puzzle. Still, we love them.
Stay safe, stay healthy. 🥰
I need the soap and the new Christmas book.
Everytime I read your posts you transport me to Martha’s Vineyard. Haven’t been there in 40 years! Would love to go back sometime
I think the calendar idea sounds great!
Thank you for the wonderful tour, as always I love to read your blog,
Stay safe!
Your lovely post arrived a few minutes ago, and I loved taking the precious time to sit in my comfy blue chair by the windows overlooking the fields and garden, and enjoy the escape. Thank you. I ended up registering for the Zoom in August (I will take a half vacation day🤗) and preordered your Christmas book. Small, special things to look forward to, but oh so welcome in these uncertain times! Thank you for your generosity, your optimism, and your undying belief that we can all make our lives richer by focusing on the everyday, extraordinary blessings around us❤️
😍
What incredible times we are living in but what a joy your blog brings to us….thank you ..never too long …..just love the pictures of the beach and can quite understand how you felt about all those not wearing masks..we start our mask wearing this weekend so I have been busy making some from oddments of Liberty lawn…just love those prints.
The puzzle looks amazing ..well done ….it will be a hit with everyone..as will the new calendar. ..let’s hope that by 2021 we shall have a vaccine and begin to live normally…being able to hug our friends and share meals…
So take care both of you
Sending so many special wishes..and thank you
Love sandra from Birmingham ukxxx
Dear Susan,
What a lovely treat to sit inside on this very hot summer’s day and read your latest newsletter. I’m so glad you got to go out for lunch, albeit a little nervously. I have not been brave enough yet even though here in British Columbia Canada our numbers are quite good. But just last week we learned a server at one of our local wineries tested positive. So as a friend said recently, we wont know the virus is here until we know and by then it may be too late. At 70 I am not willing to take many risks.
On a very different note I’m very excited to join you for the zoom party via Duxbury. Can’t wait to take a walk through the English countryside with you. Thank you so much for doing a zoom gathering.
Thank you also for the suggestion to watch 800 Words. We devoured all three seasons and laughed ourselves silly. We miss Woody!! Now, have you been watching escape to the Chateaux? I thought of you when I saw Angel’s advent calendar, which was a string of little painted buckets stuffed with treats and strung on a chain over a wide doorway. I thought, “Oh, Susan would paint those in cheerful, old-fashioned Christmas colours and designs”. I may give it a go if I can find the little buckets. You’re such an inspiration!
We have a tiny island probably 6 nautical miles from Martha’s Vineyard called Cuttyhunk. Only 200 year rounders, no hospital, one little food store, etc. And they suddenly came up with 8 cases this week. No one is safe. I’ve had my fun. No more lunches out for a while … just nice long drives in the car! Haven’t heard of Escape to the Chateaux, will have to look for that! Take care! See you on Zoom!!!
Your Blogs are never too long! So excited when there aren’t 200 replys before I get to it! Your Christmas book sounds delightful! Puzzle will be fun too! Was wondering about your island and the virus. Hopefully it will stay contained!
Susan, Your blog posts aren’t too long!! I love the ocean picture that is really worth it. California needs prayers. We are 3100 cases from New York’s count of cases. I am looking forward to the Zoom party. I was thrilled it was free. I am happy I pre-ordered my Santa
Christmas cups, my Christmas Books, my calendars now all I need is Enchanted. My son gave me a Susan Branch Homemade Recipe binder set for my birthday yesterday. I have taught him well. It was one I hadn’t bought already for myself. I was so happy to meet you at Apple Farm in October of 2018. I can’t wait for the zoom since we are under Safer At Home orders!! Duxbury Doings a few weeks away!! Your puzzle is dual purpose with fun and educational reading!! See you soon awesome lady🌹❤️ Karen Baron
New York should give you hope. They were all in it together, dug themselves out, didn’t come back too early, and have kept their low numbers ~ at least so far. If New York can do it, everyone can. In a way, they were lucky to get it first, before it was turned into something political! I pray you win those hearts and minds without too much loss. xoxo
You would love “This Country Place”. Or house? Anyway….filmed in England. On every day, here on channel 179! Dabl is the network. Comes on here at 4:00 in the afternoon. Filmed all over England, Wales and Scotland. FolkS looking for a new house to buy…..and something interesting about the area they are checking out. Try and find it! xx, Penny 💕
Hi Susan,
Your blog is a breath of fresh air. I’m reading it while enjoying a nice glass of wine at the end of a rainy day here in Florida, the epicenter of COVID 19. But we are doing well and masked and safely distancing. Thank you for the positive spin.
Your posts are never “too long”. They are always just right. I love to get them and enjoy reading them. Keep well my friends. Hoping to hear from you again real soon. Love 💕
Hi Susan. Thanks for the uplifting blog. So excited for the puzzle. You always seem to know what we need. Love that it has a book theme and I also love how you take a book to the restaurant. 📚 I’m hanging in here at home in Michigan and looking forward to your zoom meeting. 💕
P.S. I’m trying to order your Christmas book using Pay pal and there is something wrong with the link you put on. a note said to let you know to fix it. sorry to be the bearer of bad news!
It’s okay, try refreshing and let me know if that works! Thank you for telling me!
Just letting you know that I am having the same problem. Refreshing hasn’t helped. If it is relevant, I am outside the USA and trying to preorder the puzzle.
I’m sending your comments to our computer person to see if he can find the glitch!! Thank you for letting me know!
Update on this glitch: it seems to only be a problem when trying to use the Express Checkout. When I used the “continue” button at the bottom of the page, I was able to complete the order normally.
So excited about the puzzle. It is exactly the style I love to do.
Makes me feel so good to hear that. It was my first one and I was trying not to make it too easy, not to make it too hard, how to make people just a little bit curious while they were doing it. And then the fun factor, and home factor, and love factor.💞
My northern California acute hospital hasn’t been hit hard but continued safety measures and only visitors if approved which is few. I get angry with people that don’t wear masks that are out and about or harass our staff during screening for different areas of hospital and buildings. It is a simple concept, not political or infringing on freedom. There is no near end in sight, so we have to stay focused.
Good for you eating out, I am not ready for that yet, but was so glad to be able to go to some small unique businesses that have been closed and see the owners and buy something. Preordered your photograph calender a while ago. Thinking about your Christmas book, have been watching Hallmark’s Christmas movies in my down time to make me happy. Thanks again for your blog it feels like a hug that I can feel in my heart instead of physically!
Oh thank you Stacey. I’m so happy hear that, it feels like I’m hugging you guys too.
People who harass the ones who are trying to keep them safe just blow my mind. I have no words. Like wearing a mask is fun! Stay safe, xoxoxo❤️
Thanks for the Vineyard visit. I will miss it this year. Can’t wait to get the puzzle. Perfect for winter days at home.
Howdy do Susan, Hello Girlfriends… hope everyone is doing well right now. well the egg hatching has begun, we are hearing scratching and tapping and on a couple of eggs we see the holes made by the little beaks. soon there will be fuzzy new little chicks running around the barnyard. our new Rooster, Chance, is all puffed up and proud of himself right now. whew it is hot here, just survived 2 100+ days and we are now cooling down to mid- 90’s . got so warm and yukky that the deer come up to the front lawn and lay under the shady trees and enjoy the cool lawn. can’t blame them the poor babies. it has been hot and miserable here, no cooling wind or breezes to move the air around. its a bit better today, some cooler winds and breezes are blowing and the it is not as hot as the last few days. I am so done with this ridiculous virus, I am tired of wearing a mask, but will wear it until they say its okay not to…but boy am I avoiding town like the plague, sorry but I refuse to wear that mask in this heat….. YUK!!!! like you cooler meals are the order of the day, too hot to cook and heat up the house. we have no A.C. just ceiling fans so no cooking for now except for BBQ!!! I cannot wait for Fall and cooler temperatures, and its only about 59-60 days away. I can wait, boy do I plan to enjoy this Fall. the chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys are getting a bit spoiled, we rigged up a sprinkler to shoot mists of water into the pen and cool them down, also keeps the flies down. well hope everyone stays healthy and well, and safe and happy. off to go water the front garden…. hugs…… 😀
Oh, Susan! Thank you for your special prayers for Arizona! We all thank you. It is very disconcerting when we see images of persons enmasse without masks…only on the news…as I am still not going out. How will this end if we are not willing to work together? Will we get a vaccine, will it simply disappear, or will enough of us perish to scare the jeebers out of the remainder of our human family to the point that we ALL work together. It sounds a bit daunting, however, I must say that I feel very blessed and safe in our little home. I am quite content knowing that I may be saving my life, as well as others, by just staying home and working in my beautiful yard. Blessings to you, Joe, and all the girlfriends. Be safe and stay strong…one foot in front of the other. Love to everyone. Cyndi
So true, I stay home to keep healthy, to save a bed in the hospital for someone else. To save the day of a hardworking nurse from adding me to her/his work load. To give a supermarket worker one more speck of safety to take home to their families. xoxoxo Not going to go away until we all take it on together. Half the people not shopping does not an economy make. 😘
Your posts are never too long! I went immediately and ordered the puzzle! I adore the graphics! (Retired Librarian me) We are hard hit here in Southern California. But we are sitting tight, wearing our masks, and staying home for the most part because we are in one of the most vulnerable groups. Be well!
thanks for the island visit, it is so wonderful to see the ocean
everyone, please wear a mask and be safe
Thank you for lifting my spirits today ❤️
Your posts are never too long!!!!! I just soak up every single word and saying and ;picture!!! It’s all so calming and reassuring!!! Thank you!!! You and Joe and Jack stay safe!!
Hi Susan! So glad you have lovely nature about you to give you something of beauty to look forward to every day! We’ve not been out much, except to garden. Trying to get the house and grounds in order before posting our house to sell next week. When that finally happens we’ll be heading to Arizona and start looking for a new place. I had a cardiac ablation two weeks ago, so that slowed me down for a week or so. It seems to have addressed my atrial fib. I don’t like that the physical complications of life get in the way of the enjoyment of it. But I guess that is where we find out who we are,,,working out finding the joy and the beauty in the midst of the difficult and the challenging! Take care and enjoy your air conditioning!
You take care Lee!❤️
Your emails make my day and make me smile. I can’t wait for your puzzle and also your zoom meeting. Love and thanks to you.
Hi Susan :). I just had oral surgery and had to have a bone graft for my jaw- Ow! The picture of Jack really cheered me up :).
Is the book still available for pre-order?
OW!!! Feel better soon DeAnna … and yes, the book is still there for preorder!
A dampanic puzzle! Of course! It’s perfectly perfect.
We can all send you pictures of our “Jacks” laying on them, stealing pieces, etc, as cats are prone to
The minute you get it out!
knowing my cats and the 2 gremlins those would be pieces never found again.