I can’t believe it, here we are, at the end of August already and all I can say is, tick-tock, how did we get here so soon, and OH GOODIE!
MUSICA! 
I have been suffering from this hot and sticky August that seemingly will not end . . . I’m ready to move on! Love the quote, “There are only two seasons, Autumn, and waiting for Autumn!” Fits me to a T, especially right this moment. And then, a couple of days ago, at the top of my suffering, I accidentally did a happy thing . . . 
I opened up my Autumn Book, just to take a look. As I turned the pages a thrill went through my heart, and I realized, it’s almost here! My favorite time of year!
So I went and got some sunflowers . . . and cut marigolds from the garden for little vases . . . because
It perked me right up! Changed everything! Sweaters are coming! Leaves! Crisp air! Corn Pudding! Makes me almost want to go on a diet. That’s how perky I feel! (“Almost” being the operative word, I am not done with toast and peanut butter yet!)
I know, not everyone looks forward to cold weather, but I love having a reason to heat up the oven and bake something! And in my 
glee, I planned the rest of the year: first a long breezy, colorful autumn (and can we 
have a normal Halloween? Why not? Everyone wears masks anyway!👺 That will cheer everyone up! The kids will be thrilled!), leaves blowing through the woods on our walk, crisp salt air off the water, quilts airing in the breeze, more cozy covers on the bed, church bells ringing and boat whistles blowing, and then a short, cozy, snow-white winter around the fireplace, with a new Christmas book and a new puzzle to do during the winter, which will be SO short I’ll have to hurry! And then, an early burst of the most flowery spring ever ~ in a brand new world filled with fresh beginnings! Covid gone, children going to school, everyone back to work, Easter egg hunts! Kitchen table Tea with girlfriends, with new remembrance, respect, and deep gratitude …
While all these nice thoughts were brewing in my head … My cups arrived on the kitchen porch!!! I’ve been waiting! I hope you got yours too … if not, you should soon. We had a little slow-down at the PO, so if you ordered one, and don’t have it yet, it’s definitely on the way!❤️
And then there’s this happy thing. Joe is outside building us a 12′ picnic table, in two pieces, one 8′ and one 4′ … so we can have a party of six for dinner, a couple at each end, and one in the middle for starry September evenings! Just planned our first one for this Friday Night!👏 I’m cooking! Joe’s grilling! Keeping our sunny-sides up.💖
Now what’s this you may be asking. It’s a surprise! Another unexpected book! It will be called Distilled Genius, Wisdom of the World, Words to Live By, (or something like that) and contain my forty-year collection of brilliant quotes from the ages, gathered into categories as I have them here in my Studio, such as Courage, Tea, Gratitude, Gardens, Happiness, all onto pages like these . . .
. . . whole genius sections about Love, Dreams, Time, Girlfriends, Cooking, Creativity, Earth, Fairy Tales, Beauty . . . so on and so on… Look how cute it’s going to be! I have about 40 pages done so far. I’ve been asked to do this for years, and I do think it needs to be here for the future! Everything that has ever mattered has been beautifully said by someone whose attestment has teeth,
from Marcus Aurelius, to Mark Twain, Black Elk, Rumi, Langston Hughes, C.S. Eliot, Churchill, and the Bible, to Louisa May Alcott, Toni Morrison, Shakespeare, Dickens, Anne Frank, Lincoln, and so many more … plus, plenty from that prolific genius, Anon… and lots from people with less familiar names, whose smart, funny, wise, and touching words inspire curiosity, and open whole new worlds that lie beyond them. I’ve always read quote books like novels! I hope this book will be finished for that wonderful spring I’ve been thinking about. More hope in a time of need. May have to be two books, might even be three, still waiting to see! I know, I have next year’s calendars to do, and my wonderful book, Enchanted to work on, and lots of blog posts and Zoom events and dinners to cook, and Joe and Jack, and the House of Creativity, and all those other ideas, but here I am, Girls, 73, and there is still so very much I want to do!
Some of you will remember that I did my very first Zoom Webinar last week. First I had to learn how to do a Power Point slide show. That about killed me. But at the last moment, it sunk in, and I found out just how easy it is to do. All about pushing the right buttons. Then I had to write about the photos, ⬆️ that’s me reading over old diaries to make sure I had the details right ~ it was a Calgon Zoom Party, took us far, far away, back to the English Countryside!
And THEN, there was a week of daily Zoom practice with the encouragement of Andrea, the wonderful person who had extended the invitation for me to speak. We got to know each other pretty well! She was very patient!
We ended up doing the same program two days in a row, because the Zoom Room had gotten so full. I knew lots of you were there, because I got pictures! This one above is from our Girlfriend Mary Brehm! She has sweet peas!
This one came from Karen England and her Kitty . . . so fun to be in everyone’s houses!
This one is from Trahlyta! I got so many wonderful photos from you guys! Thank you! The program lasted about an hour and 15 minutes. I know some of you wanted to join in, but could not ~ so, as promised, here’s a link so you can see it yourself on Youtube. In the beginning, it’s just me staring at the screen, watching the names of attendees scrolling by really fast … such a fun thing to see, so many I recognized. I wish that part showed so you could read them too … but instead you just have to watch me staring at them and saying them out loud. Might want to skip that part!
IN THE MEANTIME. Guess what? There are going to be more Zoom parties. In the column on the right of this Blog
you’ll see EVENTS. Here is the Link for it, but you can get there yourself when you need to check back for new event dates. I’m about to add more, so watch for them so you can register and receive an invitation to join.
The next one will be a Sunday Afternoon Christmas Tea Party 
presented by the wonderful people at Titcombs Bookshop, just over the water on the Cape, from 3:30 to 4:30 pm EST on September 20 ~ BYO Tea because you’re all invited to my first virtual book event for my new Home for Christmas book! Here’s where you can sign up! If you don’t know how to do Zoom, you can Google “Youtube how to use Zoom” and they will show you. It’s just a matter of which buttons to push ~ it’s easy. When you sign up, they will send you an invitation to our zoom party … which will have a link for you to click on the day of the event. Put it on your calendar!
One flower stands out on Martha’s Vineyard, it’s the hydrangea… they are everywhere! Drive up and down the streets and that’s what you see. We moved these from another part of the garden last year, and I’m so glad we did. Aren’t they romantic? They’re just starting to turn pale pink, something they do in the fall . . . and now we can see them from the kitchen windows from this dear old house I have loved for so long.💞
We’re still going on our walk everyday … joy of life.
It’s been very warm . . . sometimes we have to cut our way through the air, it’s so thick . . . but it’s nothing like what our California Girlfriends are suffering. We pray for them every day. You too, Girlfriends in Iowa, we know about that crazy storm that shot through your state. And now, 11′ storm surges in Louisiana.😢 🙏 2020 is some kind of year!⚡️ We were spared the other night, we were told to hunker down and expect one-inch hail ~ it got very dark out there, but it never came! Thank God. Deep breath, ahhhhhh. Remembering how much we have to be grateful for.
The woods are still green as Sherwood Forest, but every so often there are tell-tale signs that change is on the way with bright spots like this one!
And now, look, I had to show you this sweet letter I got from someone writing about our DamPanic, Go. Be. Love. postcards! Made my day!
Dear Susan, Several weeks ago I purchased a package of your “Go. Be. Love” postcards and sent them to a number of friends. Oh, my gosh! I send lots of cards and notes and have never received so many oohs and ahhs over a card I sent. My dear friends loved the postcard and just showered me with compliments and thanks. You deserve all of the credit. You created the perfect greeting to send during this pandemic and I am so grateful to be a longtime fan and follower and saw them in your online shop. Stay safe and well. Sincerely, Marge
Just in cases YOU might need to be “showered with compliments and thanks” I thought I would share this!
And the New Pumpkin Go. Be. Love. postcards came in too …
I had this pumpkin postcard printed in honor of what our Great Grandmothers did for us only a hundred years ago this August 18th!💖 Joe carved that Halloween pumpkin a few years back for our front window ~ I thought it would be a good way to celebrate those brave and determined women, mothers, sisters, grandmothers, and best friends (and men too), who put themselves out there in a very big way for US! We should never take it for granted … they went through some very difficult and dangerous years, to make it happen!👏
Yes, Jack . . .
And one more thing . . .
In case YOU too need something sweet and homey to inspire you with my wind-in-the-trees formula for cozy, Kellee just put my Autumn book up at 25% off until midnight on Labor Day! You probably already have it, but maybe not, and maybe you need a gift for a friend!🍂
And for you?
Time for a good Giveaway, don’t you agree? I think this is the perfect place to thank all of you for sticking with us through thick and 
thin and dampanic too, for me and for Kellee and Sheri, your kindness has meant the world to us over the years, going to work is a gift because of you, but especially these last months, you have no idea what a positive force you are. All you have to do is read the comments to know what lovely kindred spirits visit here. No matter where in the world you are, we have so much in common, I’m very proud of us.💖 Thank you.
So we’ll start here . . . 3 cups, 3 winners! As you know, these cups are mostly sold out now, but we saved these to surprise someone(s) ~ I hope one of them is YOU! Just leave a comment right at the bottom of this post, click on the teeny grey letters that say “comments,” leave a few words, and you will be automatically entered for the drawing . . . I’ll let you know who won in the next post, then I’ll send an email to the winners, who can write back with their mailing address, and voila, your cups will be on the way, either for you to keep, or perhaps to give away as a Christmas gift! And more . . .
Shipping from the printer is still on schedule for August 26th, which means we will probably have to wait until the day after Labor Day, September 8 to get HOME FOR CHRISTMAS delivered to the Studio! So, 3 more winners in this next drawing ~ and for each, a signed copy of my new book, hot off the press! If you’ve already ordered it, then Boom! You’ll have another one to giveaway! A little bit of “pay it forward.”💞
Leave a comment as suggested above … and now we will have six winners! Makes my day!
Okay dear ones, that’s all she wrote for today! I hope you’re giving yourself those hugs I talked about at the Zoom Party. They do help, and you do deserve them.❤️ Petty-pet hugs are good too! XOXOXO
Susan…thank you for such a delightful post. I do not know how you manage to always send one … when I really need an uplift, but you do. Must be magic. And I too, am looking forward to cooler weather & will get my autumn book out soon. Enjoy your new picnic table & your friends.
Always enjoy your newsletters -always make my day better! Thank you! What exciting news about the book of quotes you are working on. I received my cups a couple of weeks ago and had planned to give the bluebird cup as a gift but somehow it landed in my cabinet! I cannot part with it – so beautiful! The Santa mug arrived yesterday (adorable) and I can’t wait for the book to arrive. I missed the Zoom party – it sold out so quickly! Thank you for including the link. I have already secured my ticket for the tea party – see you in September! Thank you for all the joy you spread – Joy to the world, all the boys and girls, Joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea – Joy to YOU and me!
Peace and Luv
Oh how much I loveee you. Hope I win something.. Blessings…
You’re always so generous with your giveaways. Thank you! Fall is my favorite time of year also Susan, love spice, pumpkin and sweaters!
I love the idea of a quotes book! I have started making my own, though without the lovely artwork.
I am VERY proud of us too🙆♀️🥂💕
It’s been rough seas⛵
Stay strong/safe/well girlfriends!!!
Much love to you all💌💘
And MANY thanks to the beautiful beacons out there🗽(Susan Branch & Co.)
May your light forever shine bright…🌟
❌’s and ⭕’s
I have been a big fan since your first cookbook came out. It was so fun to read your Martha’s Vineyard Book in our book club this summer. It was my second time reading it and I enjoyed reading it just as much the second time. I also love following you on Twitter.
THANK YOU, Susan, for your positive attitude and your sense of humor – I always smile when I see one of your items around my house.
I came to your zoom book talk last week Susan ~ it was so great, you were the best – totally made my whole week, thank you!! 🙂
Your eternal optimism is just what we need these days! Thank you!
My fave seasons are Autumn, also🍁. Nothing like it. It’s been too Hot and Humid here as usual. Anticipating all your new books. Falling into Autumn….yeaaaaaa🍂🌻🌼
What a lovely blog. I live in central Texas and we have had so many days over 100 degrees. I am so ready for cooler temperatures but that won’t happen here probably until mid November. Love the photo with the hydrangeas. So pretty.
I am very pleased that you are doing a book with your beautifully illustrated quotes. It will be more than charming! The pages look amazing! My name will definitely be on that pre-order list. Thank you for the time and effort that you put into your work. I truly appreciate your efforts!
Enjoyed watching your Zoom through the link. You were so cute working through it all. Gasped when you pulled Jack into the screen shot. WAY too quick, but such a wonderful second…or two. Pet-pet that handsome, sweet furry!
My calendars arrived and were handed over to my husband. He has stashed them away for Christmas morning so no peeking was allowed. The Christmas book will arrive in no time and I will NOT wait for the 25th for that. It will be displayed throughout December.
It has been so hot and humid everywhere according to the comments. CA, too, as commented before me, is hot and humid. I feel like I am living in a time warp…still in March…getting my feet wet in the 2020 year. I have to say that time has stopped for me the past few months and I can’t believe that Sept. 1 is almost here. Feels like I am tucked away in a six-month time capsule and am now warned that the capsule may not open soon after all!! Here’s hoping.
Who knew when I skipped through those youthful days of 1950s that in time I’d wish to be zapped back into the ’50s?!
Cheers to your bottomless pit of positivity…bottle it and send out samples, please.
Hugs to you.
Oh, I can’t wait for autumn! Here in Phoenix area, we’ve had the hottest summer, 110+ temps.
Thank you for writing about autumn so I can imagine.
I loved your post. They always make me feel soothed.
I especially enjoyed seeing the picture of the red sassafras leaf. Brought me back to my camping days at Trail Blazer Camps in New Jersey. One year we made sassafras tea, another year we made stationary using the three different shaped leaves. Loved the smell of the leaves. Thanks for the memories…
Thank you for this lovely post. I was really tired of 2020 and I needed to appreciate all the good that is happening in spite of the pandemic. Love your positivity. Fall is my favorite season.
Smiles,
Nancy
Dear Susan, Your blog tonight is just what I needed today. Thank you for sending it to all of us Keep well, you, your Joe and Jack. Hopefully the spring will be just like you envisioned it to be next year. In the meantime, Fall and Winter. My two favorites too. Cool days and nights and no humidity.
Dear Susan,
It’s so wonderful to see your new post! You have no idea how powerful and uplifting your words, artwork, and pictures are ! I know it is a lot of work and added to your ongoing creative artistic projects, I honesty don’t know how you ALWAYS manage to post a most wonderful and uplifting message. You never disappoint ! As a teacher, (an old one- this will be my 43rd year) I have always loved Fall with the smell of newly waxed floors, new packages of crayons, new students, a new class theme, special goodie bags for my students for the first days of school! Indian summer days, cool in the morning and warm in the afternoons. Fall leaves ! Making applesauce ( using our apples from our orchard) with my students and then enjoying not only the wonderful fragrance all day but the incredible home cooked taste. Fall has always been the promise of new beginnings and new students to take on the journey called second grade! This year we are going to virtual teaching and I will not be having my students close at my feet as I read my favorite Fall stories and do all those nurturing things that I have always done for them. Yes, it will be very different this last year of my career. It will be different and it will be reinvented! I have been working on special book bags for all 3 second grade classes. I purchased a Cricut and purchased bags from Amazon . We will load them up with books, school supplies and fun items to help support them with their journey at home. I will take my lead from Mr. Rogers and Reading Rainbow! I am on a steep learning curve with technology ! I will continue to share my love of literature and learning with my new students! Thank you for all your inspiration!!
You are a treasure Julie … a pure treasure. Your students must love you. 💖
Dear, Dear Dedicated Teacher….Julie Anne,
I know Exactly what you mean about a new school year. I was teaching 2nd grade when I retired. Our daughter is a kindergarten teacher in her 27th year. I can not fathom how anyone can teach those little people on Zoom!!
Or in person, socially distancing, with their tiny little masks. But Needs Must, as they say in Jolly Olde.
Hope you have a good year,
Debbie in Maine
I need to get my Autumn book out! So glad you reminded us of it.
How I would love to have a place to walk as you do….all nature, no traffic, buildings, etc. I’m 76…I didn’t realize you were in your 70’s as well….amazing how time flies, isn’t it. We need to slow it down a bit, somehow….any ideas?
I always put on your Musica pieces when reading your post….very cool, relaxing, cheerful. Thanks Susan
I so enjoy when I open my email to see you have sent along another new post for me to sit down with my coffee to enjoy. Thank you and have a great fall season ahead.
Thanks for the giveaway. I enjoy summer even if it is hot. I also enjoy your blog
What a joy to read such uplifting words, accompanied by your absolutely wonderfully intricate art…I just love every tiny detail! Your posts are so uplifting in these troubled times. We NEED you to help keep us in balance. Thank you for being YOU!
Hi Susan: On my morning walk this week, the Birch leaves were tinged with yellow and already some were swirling in the wind. I broke out your “Autumn” book early to make your Beet Salad recipe with beets fresh from the Farm Stand. No dish whispers fall is a comin’ more than that salad! Thank you for being a steadfast, joyful presence in my life for all these years. I appreciate you! Love, Karen
Thank you Susan! This is the first time I’ve left a comment, but I want to tell you how much I look forward to your newsy letters. That Jack is the cutest (well, besides my Siamese Cat, Pippin😀). I have never been to your island, but feel I know it vicariously through the years of photos you have posted. Hope to visit one day.
I, too, look forward to fall. It is hot here in central California, and smokey, but that is thankfully improving now. Your blog is always an uplift in difficult times, so thank you!
Looking forward to your September Zoom and your Christmas book!
Ah, Autumn….my favorite time of year! The colors, the weather (mostly, sometimes Summer takes a long time to leave us here in NJ), the food! Your Autumn book is great inspiration. Now that I’m retired, I have lots of time for lots of projects. So looking forward to this Autumn and Winter. Love you, love your books! Enjoy.
I too am weary of heat and humidity and am ready for clear crisp air to lift our spirits.
Greetings from Kansas. Thanks for making my day. I am also looking forward to cooler days and a calm new year.
My favorite Autumn book just might get jealous if I love Home for Christmas more! It’s a possibility I am willing to find out! Thank you for the opportunity to win a signed copy!
May you have your happiest Fall ever…
What fun to come to your zoom party last week Susan! We go to England every Fall (our anniversary and favourite season too!) but sadly won’t be going this year because of Covid. It was lovely enjoying your visits with you. Love your blog! xx
Oh the joy when I check to see if there is a new post….and there is! Happy Day! I will check out your Zoom Party tomorrow but glad you have mastered the process and it is a great way to contact each other. Our Tuesday Girls Zoom on Tuesdays since we cannot sew/quilt like we used to do….so we stay in touch that way. I put on earrings for our Zoom meetings….ha!
Waiting for the numbers to go down so we can enter NY state safely…coming from Texas is not a good thing and I do not blame the New Yorkers. We will get to go one day.
Stay well and safe and happy!
Dear Susan,
Like you, I can’t wait for the cooler weather to arrive. Autumn is lovely, but my favorite day of the year is December 21, the winter solstice. I may have been a mole in a former life because I love when darkness sets in early so I can hunker down with an afghan, a cup of hot tea and a good novel. This year I plan to be reading your new Home For Christmas book. This has been a difficult year with the loneliness of the pandemic. Thanks for sharing your positivity and hopefulness. Reading your blogs always makes my day!
xoxo
“Anticipation” is just what we all need, I think (and a cup would be lovely too , of course) to counteract our growls and Harrumphs of current frustration. Thank you for thinking of us with a giveaway !! Hope springs….and brings joy.
Can’t wait to get your Autumn book. Just ordered. 🍁🍂
Love those cup designs–especially the bluebird! You’re the best!
Hello Susan,
Yes looking forward to fall but in Texas it is still summer and I have your summer book to enjoy. Autumn will come soon enough. I have all your books and am looking forward to your Christmas book. I hope you pick me for one of your give away’s. Looking forward to watching your zoom meeting.
Yes to autumn! Cool days and cooler nights. Sweaters and blankets time. And pots of tea and hot chocolate. Can’t wait!
You always show up when we need you. Thank you. I love love the plans for the quote book or books. You are such a very clever girl.
Fall makes me a little sad but I’m glad you all feel happy to see it coming. I’ll try to see it thru your eyes.
Excited for the Christmas Book and would love one of the mugs! Thank you for posting your Zoom meeting. I was sad it was “sold out” so it was great to get to go back and watch. Love all of your adventures to England with the wonderful watercolors, maps and photos!
So strange. I commented a few hours ago, but have scrolled through three times looking for it and can’t find it, so will try again. I just wanted to say thank you so much for your encouraging and beautiful blog. I’m looking forward to your Quotes book(s.)
I woke up this morning to almost 900 comments! I’m reading them now. So I bet I’ll find your other comment deep in the heart of all of these wonderful words. Thank you Marilyn!
Thank you for another uplifting post, Susan. I love all your photos too, so please keep them coming.
Hi Susan, The post cards are so cute. Can’t wait for the new book.
I was there for the webinar and thought it was marvelous. Thank you!! But I can’t tell you how excited I am about the quote book(s). I have a notebook where I have been recording quotes for a couple of years now, and they bring me a great deal of joy and inspiration. So this is splendid news! Please take care, stay safe … and wear a mask 😷. And … vote … of course. 😉
Mary
I love my Autumn cookbook. Have had it for many years. Corn pudding is my family’s absolute favorite any time of the year. The photo of the sweet peas, gorgeous. Great post.
Stuck in a no visit assisted living. Your cheerful words lift and carry me through.
Oh my gosh Sharon, you are who I worry about the most. My uncle is in your same situation, I was just putting together a care LOVE package for him. This is going on too long. Blessings on you. Please give yourself hugs, it does help. Hardest part, this lacking in physical connection. Kisses and hugs. This too shall pass. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Hello Susan,
I had your cookbooks spread on the table yesterday looking for delicious summer recipes. Your books make me so happy! I get lost in them, reading your sweet and thought provoking quotes. It is an escape of much needed joy and happiness for me. I am making your delicious gazpacho tomorrow.🍅😊
Would love to win a mug!! So nice to read your blog tonight. SO needed in these horrible times. Thanks!!
I look forward to our visits (through blog) every month – really, you make me feel like I am indeed chatting with an old dear friend. I had my son-in-law build me a shelf under my kitchen window just so I could put my little vases with flowers beside my tiny ceramics birds. I call it my “Susan shelf.”
I am sooo looking forward to receiving my own early Christmas gift … my Little Things cup. My subtle hints didn’t work before they sold out last time. I didn’t want to take the chance of missing out again and ordered it myself! Thank you, Susan, for having more made for us!
We just put in a pool- I’m not ready for summer to end! XO
Your colorful and hope-filled descriptions of autumn are just what I needed😁 here in very warm Southern California. Longing for some crisp fall mornings when I can sip hot tea from a special cup in my garden.
Susan, Thank you for sharing such love and happiness to all.
Hi Susan,
Thank you! You sure know how to brighten my day!! Loved your idea about bringing Fall into your home early. What better way than with flowers? Flowers make it all better!! I’m so over Summer but in Southern California you never know how hot Fall is going to be so I have to be prepared with flowers, lots of flowers!! 💐
Dear Susan,
A distancing picnic table inspires me to ask the same of my hubby. Six people laughing together under the stars while passing favorite fall food will become a reality out here on the other coast. Thank you.
Diney from Camano Island, WA
Thank you for providing a breath of fresh air, I will look for you on Zoom!
I love it so much when my inbox shows me I have a new email from your blog. This one rings home with me too as fall is my favorite season of the year. There is something wonderful in that crisp fall smell in the air! For years I have lived where fall just kind of came and went, lucky if you knew it had arrived or departed. Now that we live a mile high in mid AZ, we get all four seasons! We have only lived here a year and a half so we are approaching our second fall. While the temps are still warm and the trees are still green, when the days are windy (and that’s quite a few now a days) the brown leaves of fall can be seen all over the ground. Happy fall days ahead.
Susan, all this exciting news! I’m eager to have the new book in hand and love the idea of the Zoom tea party. I’m all signed up!
I can’t believe I missed your Zoom. I was out of the loop, so thanks for sharing the link. Going to watch this tomorrow when I have a block of time. Late here and headed to bed. Thanks for all the joy and beauty you bring into our lives!
Hugs from Austin,
Sarah and Sadie
Hi from Northern California! Your wonderful words are the bright spot of my day. 💕
I am sooooo looking forward to Autumn this year! (But every year also!) I love the cooler weather and the opening of the windows for the breezes to blow through! The best sleeping weather! I love cold and snow also! Just makes me feel all glowy! Look forward to each post of yours! I have been following you for years now!
I love fall and all things pumpkin. Soon we will a new president and 2021. God bless us everyone!
Yep my Autumn book is already out inspiring my “back to school “ feelings
Hugs to all
Wonderful post, Susan. I, too, bought a couple of packages of your post card and mailed out to friends. What a great way to reach out to them during this time. Received such great comments back. One was from my 98 yr old prior boss – who called me to let me know how much she enjoyed receiving it. Weird times, but we will make it through. It’s tough for so many, but we must have faith that there is an end to this pandemic.
Little things, reaching out with a postcard, seemingly nothing, means so much. xoxoxo Faith.💖
I love reading all your posts. Love all the Beatrix Potter figurines you have. I also have quite a collection. Can’t wait for autumn and for the pandemic to be over. I always buy your precious little calendars. Your posts are very uplifting. Hope you and your family stay well.
Bought my ticket for your next Zoom party. I missed the first one. Waited too late. 😔
Looking forward to receiving my Christmas book and your book of quotes will be an awesome addition to my collection. Would love to win a cup. ( I already have the Little Things cup).
Loved your post as always.
Nancy B (from Bakersfield)
Oh good Nancy, you’ll be there! So fun!
Was so ready to receive your post today! I miss hearing from you and can’t wait to hear from you again! And now I am eagerly awaiting my cup to arrive! YEA! I can’t wait. I got one for my sister too as a surprise, because *You* are something special we share! I can’t wait for her to get hers too! Fall is my favorite time of year too. I can’t wait for fall! Yes, I feel your anticipation too! Thanks for sharing your time and your anticipation and your special gifts of love & friendship! We need more of *You* in the world!! I guess that’s why we have our “girlfriends!!” Happy Fall!
I cannot wait for fall and rain and cool weather. I think this is the longest summer on record. The area I love most, near the Russian River, has had most of the Mandatory Evacuations lifted. My little cabin is safe…for now. I am so relieved but so heartsick for those who have lost their homes, pets, etc. We will get through this and enjoy better times ahead. Everyone, please make sure you are registered and VOTE! TTFN, Sally in Northern California
Hello Susan! Your posts always stir up those creative urges in me! Love this time of year in middle/upstate New York. Much less humidity now, and the air has a certain crispness to it. I planted these giant marigolds and they are HUGE! Five feet tall at least! I’m so glad I made time to plant flowers in the spring. My husband and I have a take out BBQ place and since we were considered “essential”, business skyrocketed and hasn’t stopped since. I am making BBQ sauce and mac and cheese by the buckets! I sure am looking forward to receiving the Christmas book and one of your mugs should be at my door any day. Hugs to you…we’ll be unpacking those sweaters before we know it!
Lovely messages as usual. I love your new quotes book already! Thank you for the bright spot in my day!
Ahhhhhhhtumn…I cannot wait. Seeing your book gives me hope for the future. I’m so bummed to have missed your first Zoom with fans. As a teacher, I practically live on Zoom, and was in “class” during your chat last week. Seriously, Susan. Thank you for continuing to live and inspire all of us. 2020 has been like sucking on mildewy sponges that keep getting more vile. But reading your Twitter feed and blog posts has enabled me to feel clean again. Tomorrow I’m going to cut some flowers from the garden, order your Christmas book, and breathe some (hopefully non-smoky) air. It’s been so sad and horrible here. But I will find courage and carry on.
Hugs!
Courage Susan.🙏💖💖💖💖
I just love it when there is a new blog! I live in South Africa and so our seasons are opposite from yours, we have had a dry dusty winter and are looking forward to spring! Thank you for the inspiration and the joy!
From New Zealand to South Africa in two comments! How do I love this? SO SO SO SO MUCH!!! Happy Spring Morag!
Hi Susan
Down Under (New Zealand) we are just entering Spring. Every season that comes along seems to be my favourite – I know, greedy. Looking out the window, the fruit trees, magnolias and camelias are all flowering and the lambs are playing on the hillside and annoying their mothers. But I envy you entering Autumn too with the beautiful golden colours and trees full of fruit. Arn’t we lucky to be alive even with so many things going wrong in the world. But we’ve got your books and your website, family and friends. Lucky indeed.
Spring is perfectly named, because that’s what’s in your step those first few days of freedom from winter! Yes, they’re all good! Many things going wrong, but you said it, many things going right … There is a Garrison Keillor quote I love, “Even in a time of elephantine vanity and greed, one never has to look far to see the campfires of gentle people.” That’s us, the gentle people! xoxo
Four friends planned our 75th birthday party around your zoom event. BUT coved virus quarantined one of us so I zoomed in alone. It was so exciting looking forward to it and reporting to the others every word I could remember. You did not disappoint us! It was so much fun! Thank you! “…Memory of the past will stay and half our joys renew.”Thomas Moore
Hi Sue!! It has been an interesting year to say the least!! 😘 😷 Our recent highlight was celebrating Tom’s 72nd Birthday, and I made your famous Coconut Layer Cale with Lemon filling from your Summer book! I’ve made it for him every Birthday since I’ve known you, and he loves it more each year! 🎂 🍰 Thank you for sharing that recipe with us!! 🍋 🎂
I’ll sign up to join your Zoom party on September 20, and celebrate Fall, (and my Birthday), my favorite season as well! 🍂 🎃. We planted a pumpkin patch this year, and I have at least a dozen huge pumpkins to decorate with out on our front porch! 🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃
Goodbye Summer, and Hello Autumn!! 😎 🤝 🎃. xoxo 😘.
Happy Birthday to Tom! And to you too Bonnie! I can still see us that day in the antique store when we started talking! Ha ha ha… I hope you and your family are all well, and safe from the smoke and fires! xoxo
Four friends planned our 75th birthday party around your zoom event BUT one was quarantined for Covid virus exposure and so I zoomed in alone. It was so much fun planning the small party distancing on the porch and then it was fun reporting to them all about the event. We just have to make the best of things! “…memory of the past will stay and half our joys renew.”Thomas Moore
I was just sitting down to send you a Tweet, so what a great surprise to find a new blog post! I wanted to thank you for mentioning ( a while ago) that you and Joe liked the BBC show Detectorists. I have just binge watched 2 seasons, LOVED it, and am already sad there’s only one more season. I thoroughly enjoyed being at your first ZOOM gathering. And got a little misty eyed with your virtual hug…it really connected. I hope you get a marvelous Fall! ♥♥♥
I just love opening my email to find your latest blog; the art, the sayings, and you sharing your life with all of us. Thank-you!
Thank you for your uplifting spirit; it truly brightened my day! It’s been a bit hard to find some joy with all that is going on in the world and yours came at just the right time. Autumn! Yes!!! ❤️
Autumn is my favorite season, too. The blue of the sky in autumn is so brilliant. The cool breezes make me want to run down a hill, as if I was 6 years old, not 66. I think I can still manage to run down a hill, well maybe a small hill. Hot tea, warm chocolate chip cookies, fresh from the oven, and the thought of Christmas right around the corner is enough to lift spirits. COVID BE Gone. Won’t we all treasure moments with our family and friends so much more when we can actually gather together and even hug. Thanks for a bit of encouragement. Sending you a virtual hug.
Dear Susan, I would love to be entered in your drawing for one of the special mugs or your new Christmas book. I just love everything you do! You are a light in the world.
Hi Susan! Well I hope when things are back to “normal”, I would love it, and I’m sure many others from Michigan would too, if you included our “Pure Michigan” as one of your events!!!
Dear Susan,
A give away, wow, you are so generous, thank you thank you!! What a year/summer this has been….Keeping fingers crossed the coming time will be just like you planned it, sounds wonderful! And A NEW BOOK to look forward to, can’t wait for it, the pages you showed look so sweet!!
We just had a summer storm, and so today looks like an autumn day, grey, wet, and almost COLD!!
I know lots of blueberries grow on the island, but do you have (wild) blackberries too? Gabri and I picked a few containers in the small wooded area where we go for walks, and also, our own plant had a great crop this year, and since that has NO THORNS, much easier top pick!
I spent a lovely day making jam yesterday, now I think I’ll go and make a slice of toast to spread some on!
Lots of love from Nicoline
OXOX
Yes, blackberries, we let them grow wild behind the barn! Ours do have thorns, are they not the same? Love to you too!
Autumn in Ohio is really special too! Crisp apples, gorgeous color, fragrant walks. Someone should bottle it. Thank you for sharing your talent with us. Be well.
Susan, every time a new post pops into my e-mail box from you its a red-letter day for me. I was thinking about when I first knew about you the other day. It was back in the early 1980’s when I was surrounded by 5 little kiddoes (all under the age of 8) and didn’t know if I was coming or going. I discovered your recipe illustrations in Country Living magazine and it was truly love at first sight! And then I discovered in later years that you had a blog and that also was love at first sight! I have even made a lovely friend from out of all the girlfriends here, Elaine from Toronto. We correspond regularly and it has been yet another blessing in my life, and all because we had a genuine love for all things SB. How could I ever have known all those years ago when I was so busy trying to figure out up from down that Susan Branch would be bringing so many blessings into my life. Its like magic! I got my calendars for 2021 now, and I am hoping along with everyone else that next year will be a red letter year (and for only good reasons)! I would so love to win one of your cups or the book, or anything. If I did I would have it sent to my sister to help bless her life. She has had a rough year and then some. Less than a year after losing our mum (whom she so lovingly cared for for the last 7 years of our sweet mum’s life) she lost her youngest son in January of this year and now, just last week, her son in law. (Both only in their 20’s) All of this on top of the damnpanic. If anyone could use cheering up she could. I have my fingers and toes and eyes and . . . well . . . everything crossed! Its a wonder I can even see and write this! Anyways Susan, thanks so much for blessing my life and the lives of so many others with your art and words, etc. You should be named a National Treasure. I am sure I am not alone in thinking that! Bring on Pumpkin Spice season. Happy Fall Y’all!
Oh, Marie, How awful for your sister and you, as well. I’m sure you must feel the support of all the girlfriends. I, too, made a friend online, and we write and mail packages often.
Debbie in Maine
Susan,
I enjoyed the Zoom trip to England so much-it was wonderful listening to you share with us; even though I’ve read your book a few times now, and often skim through it as kind of escape.
I’m so excited about your new book with quotes. I have loved quotes since I can remember. I often use them to make cards in pretty writing, but nothing compared to these lovelies. Your quote pages are so bee-u-tee-ful!
My favorite thing though, is that I noticed the queen’s photo near those lovely flowers and beautiful vase at the sink. I love it! And I love the queen. These wonderful little touches truly make one’s house their own.
Happy to see the Love cards are back, I keep missing them when they are in stock. I must order them in the morning.
Love spending this time with you all before I’m off to bed. It’s just after midnight and I have to get up for work. To ta ta for now.
Thank you so much for bringing beauty and serenity to this crazy and often dark world.
Peace, love and good health to you, Joe & Jack.
Maureen
Thanks for the lovely posting. 😊 Ordered a big box of pretties from you a few times this crazy year and it was so nice opening them with my 4 year old daughter.
Love your stuff. Keep it coming. ❤️❤️❤️🐝
Good Morning!
Storms Ellen and Francis have now blown over, they made quite the couple! A glorious Autumn day dawns in west Wales, with that certain feeling to the air that only comes a few days in each year.
I was mildly confused in the beginning, but think I have figured out this Zoomy thingamajig, and totally enjoyed the broadcast.
The Christmas book is ordered! Happy Me! The hard part will be keeping it until after Thanksgiving without reading it, for it is to be my Christmas read.
~~~Waving~~~Deb in Wales xoxo
Oh yay, Deb, good that you could see it! xoxo
Deb, so sorry I can’t read your tweets anymore. I miss you and Carrie in Wales. Hope you are well. Debby in the PNW
Hi, Susan…thank you, as always, for sharing your beautiful life and thoughts with us. You have been an inspiration for me for many years. Here in Florida, we still have several months before even the thought of the feel of Autumn…sigh. I love experiencing the seasons vicariously through you! Stay safe and beautiful!
Love to see your posts, they brighten the day and uplift my spirits! What a precious gift you are to all of us Susan! Sending a big hug xo
I don’t usually look forward to autumn, I guess I cling to summer. But this year is different – I am ready for the change of season, and your enthusiasm is a very positive feeling. So into the fall we go, and then of course the holidays!
Hugs to you too, Susan. Be Blessed.
Hi Susan,
Thank you for another beautiful post. I am looking forward to the cooler weather as well, it seems this summer has been a little more “sticky” this year. I have been making and freezing your pesto recipe as often as I can for a taste of summer this winter.
It is very thoughtful and kind of you to give away so many wonderful things, so often! Kindness is just as contagious as Covid, we just have to put a little effort in to spreading it around.
Best Wishes, Danielle
Thank you for providing the link to your Zoom Party. I could not get in unfortunately. So I will go enjoy it now. Looking forward to receiving my copy of “Home for Christmas” and the pretty postcards I ordered. So enjoying your blog. Thanks and stay safe.
Colette
Thank you soooo much for these posts! They are a breath of fresh air.
Thank you as always dear Susan–for making the world feel more hopeful and for keeping us all so inspired even through this DamPanic (and lately for us in California with these devastating fires!). You make EVERYTHING better–and always remind us to look for the beauty, hang on to hope and stay cozy as well as kind. You are pure love, dear Susan.
PS I love your tweets too!! Love love to read your thoughts!! I’m right there with you!!xoxo
PPS Can hardly wait for your Christmas book!! Eeeek! Soo exciting!!
Thank you for the wonderful reminder to pull my “Autumn” book out and use it as part of my fall decorating! And thank you for always leaving a “cheery note” in my in-box! I always look forward to the loveliness within!
I feel like I’ve been waiting for Fall since June.
Getting very weary with the hot, humid weather AND dreary August ‘ceiling’ filled with gloomy, ugly smoke from wildfires to the north and east of us, some as far away as 300 miles but still a reminder-presence in our Southern California sky. Lots of prayers for all who suffer from bad weather events … Colorado, Louisiana, etc.
Susan, thank you for the nice post and giveaway. Best regards to you and Joe and Jack. SO looking forward to your quote book(s). What’s the chance I can ever buy a second Fall Apples cup? (If they have them at the Apple Farm, I have no plans to visit soon due to Covid.) Hasn’t of course been available in your store. So afraid I’ll break the one I love, then never be able to buy it again. Wish I’d have bought two!
Call Apple Farm re: apple cup. As you know the staff is very friendly and would be happy to ship one to you. Hope they have one JUST FOR YOU!
Thanks, FayE!
Wow, it took awhile to scroll back thru 2000plus comments to find my old one so I could tag onto it (how do you read so many comments, and I know you do, Susan!!) TO SAY that YAY, the Fall Apples cup came ‘back in stock’ to your store today (Sheri gave me a heads-up they’d probably be available this week; she is always so responsive to my queries!) so I’ve got one coming now, just in time for apples, cinnamon, pumpkin, cocoa and everything FALL-good! (As soon as our Labor Day Weekend heatwave is over in Southern California!)
🎉🎊🎉😘
Actually, good feedback for the store once again (it’s always good!!!), just so you know: I also got an email today from Kellee to let me know the cups were now available so, my goodness, these girls had me covered! Had I forgotten to check and not yet put in my order earlier this morning, Kellee would have saved the day with the thoughtful reminder. I so appreciate the follow-up; your staff does NOT drop the ball!
I have your lovely Autumn book , will be placing it on my coffee table soon; love this book ! We are in a heat wave here in OHIO, storms expected today. Thanks for your cheerful posts; take care and keep writing !!
Susan,
Having recently signed up, I am enjoying reading the first of your blogs that I received! I love the pictures and photos which bring back many fond memories of visits to the island. Having been born and raised in Massachusetts, both Nantucket and Marthas Vineyard are favorite spots of mine and each hold special places in my heart so thank you for sparking pleasant memories!
BJ Beavin
Hutchinson Island, FL
I LOVE Autumn! We’re just about to move into spring so I have a bit of a wait for Autumn again, but there’s also so much to love about spring, summer and winter. Thank you for a beautiful and very generous post again.
Hello Susan, I LOVE AUTUMN ❤. 🍁🍂🍃
Thank you. I love your art work.