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
I’ve always loved your books! They were there to encourage my days and now I’m enjoying you so much online! You’ve been a breath of fresh air in these days!!
Susan,
I’ve been struggling with anxiety and depression in connection to the pandemic and was seeking something inspiring, comforting, and encouraging to read. I found all three in your biographical series. I so enjoyed the account of your early life in California and your further adventures in ‘A Fine Romance’, I’m still waiting for the second book, “Isle of Dreams” (there is a waiting list at the library). Just wanted you to know that your books touched me deeply, already I want to re-read them. I’m so glad you are continuing to write. I love your blog and look forward to each one.
Hi Susan!
I can’t wait for Home for Christmas! I started collecting Christmas books about 40 years ago and of course Christmas from the Heart of the Home is one of my all time favorites.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful art and stories with us:)
Kelly from PA
Hi Susan ,
Thanks for brightening my day!
Your quotes book is something I look forward to.
Your artwork is beautiful and your recipes are yummy…enjoy your picnic!
Keep Well
Suzy
PS..Autumn is the best season!
Whenever your blog post comes, it is the happiest day! Thank you for taking the time to do them!! And thank you for the give-away!
Hello! What a delight to have a new blog post to read. And I’m very excited that you’ll be having a special sale for the Autumn book. I’ve somehow never picked up a copy, but this may be my opportunity!
Thank you for your positivity and happy thoughts, Susan… especially this year. Hope you and yours are all doing well. Sending the best of wishes from central California.
Your blogs always lift my day to happiness!
You are truly an inspiration! Thanks for sharing you art and words with us!
Thank you for spreading coziness and cheer, no matter what the weather, life, or contentious social media may bring. And thanks for great giveaways and free printables!
Each year a large group of friends (Take Pride in Titusville) gather in November to put up large Christmas displays of Christmas lights in our local park. One year I had pictures of your Santa’s face and pinned them up all over our “volunteer’s building” and the comments started up. I’m not there 24/7 or 7 days a week but I heard lots of positive comments. It was like Santa was watching us as the volunteers came and went from the building. We have the lights on from the day after Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve. You helped light up the volunteer’s building with your Santa’s face! Thank you! We’ve been doing this for 18 years this Christmas season and it keeps growing! Your Santa is the best we’ve seen.
😂😢😂 Makes me very happy to hear that! 😘
Here I go again. This isn’t the first time that I have advocated for Mrs. Susan Claus…and it won’t be my last until I can actually pre-order her cup. Mrs. Susan Claus would love to receive some fame, too. Hopefully, she will make her debut on a cup one day SOON. Tick-tock, tick-tock…she patiently awaits for her SB debut.
Santa JOE cup is perfection! Time to add Mrs. SUSAN Claus cup to the collection! Mrs. Claus never lets Santa down. Time to honor her devotion and cheer! All of the ladies who become the Mrs. Claus in their homes during the holiday seasons would love to take a holiday-shopping-decorating-cooking-baking-wrapping break by sitting down for tea in their Mrs. Susan Claus signature cup.
Your painting of Mrs. Claus is the BEST EVER. Try to find a lovely, sweet painting of Mrs. Claus. I’ve tried and most renditions are VERY unattractive, cartoonish, etc.
Your work of Mrs. Claus WILL become the classic, iconic and beloved face for Mrs. Claus. It is so warm, sweet, loving, cheerful and will bring our childhood visions of Mrs. Claus “to life”…your painted rendition is THAT good! Like Beatrix Potter’s images, Mrs. Susan Claus will be loved forever by her fans!
I agree, we do need her!
I just watched your zoom talk on you tube-loved it. Thank you for sharing it with us.
A new book!!! I can’t wait – thank you for continuing to gift us with your beautiful talent. I just re-read Fairy Tale Girl and Martha’s Vinryard Isles of Dreams and they were as wonderful as the first time I read them! I can’t wait fir the Christmas Book! Enjoy these last days of summer and looking forward to your Autum posts!
Dear Susan, Your blog and photography has been wonderful❤️ Thank you for sharing your beautiful thoughts. I always look forward to reading your latest message 😊
Wow, I don’t know how many times I’ve looked at your blog site anticipating the next one! It’s my time to sit and relax and read, and yes I always play your chosen music. My husband always knows it’s your site on the computer!
Because the music is so good!😂😘
Susan, thank you for this wonderful giveaway! I was so happy to see & read this latest blog post from you. It has been a very hot August here in Alabama, so fall will be a welcomed sight whenever it does arrive. I love your products and your books and look forward to your new ones!
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! You are a breath of fresh air, just love reading your blog. It makes my day! 🙂
Just sat your Autumn book out on my kitchen counter today. My favorite of all of yours, so far. 🍁🍂🌻
I can’t begin to tell you how much your books, blog and knowing you are there means to me. When spring break started early in March, I started reading The Fairy Tale Girl again and continued with the rest. They are an escape and then your cookbooks, enjoyed the illustrations, the quotes, the recipes! Got Autunm out last week but still find myself going back to Summer and Vineyard Seasons tho I am looking forward to cooler weather, soups and no flies! Your books take me to places that are normal!
Looking forward to your new books…Susan Branch Quotations😁 and whatever else crosses your imagination.😏
Again so thankful you are in our world!💕
Love these monthly blogs🥰
I always love to read quotes from other people; they give so much inspiration!
Thank you for such a happy blog post. I was so excited when I saw it pop up in my email. It truly brightened my day. This has been a tough week. The pandemic has hit me this week and I am missing my girlfriends, phone visits and zoom visits are great, but I long for the day we can meet to catch up, have lunch and just simply hug each other. Thank you for the link for the zoom event. I signed up but never did receive the link, so I missed out. Am anxious to watch it and see what I missed on that day. Nice to see you and Joe are well and staying healthy. Thank you again for bringing joy to my day.
Blue sky in the Napa Valley today! Such a joyful sight. Right up there with the first red leaf, sun creeping onto the windowsill and my first pumpkin spice latte of the season! Can’t wait for the official start of fall!
Oh Susan, I so enjoy your monthly blog posts. They remind me how much I enjoy the simple things like a cup of tea in a beautiful mug and my garden blooming so gloriously. I love your books and look forward to the Christmas book and the Zoom Christmas tea!
I am always excited to read a new blog post from you, I always wait to read it until I’m either cozied up with a hot coffee or tea and a blanket on my lap or sitting in bed in the evening with a glass of wine…have to savor it! I attended the zoom and it was wonderful, such a happy event! And I’ve just signed up for the Christmas tea, so now I’ve got something to look forward to! Plus I just received my first cup, the Christmas one, and it is definitely the nicest mug I’ve ever had! Beautiful, and thin and light but sturdy, and big! I love it. Thank you for bringing joy to my life.
Susan, your blog is a bright spot in all of this mess. Thank you for all the joy you spread with your art and writing. I love the mugs and will be getting a copy of your new Christmas book one way or another. Stay well 🙂
I love, love, love your blog!!!! Thank you for sharing!
Hi Susan,
Thank you so much for always being a bright spot in the universe and in our lives. So wonderful, especially now.
Blessings to you and everyone here as well.
Vickie
My sister lives with my husband and I and her big expensive TV broke down at less than a year old. Because of all that’s been going on it took four weeks to have a replacement arrive. In the meantime I leant her my books that you have written and she found them enchanting and a nice respite from the TV. So much so after she finished them she kept reading other books and read a total of 21 books in 4 weeks. She’s now dividing her time between books and the Telly. Thanks for being on hand and being a great way for Mary to return to reading.
Delightful to read that Susan. Things to be said for this DamPanic!❤️
Before I got my jammies on, I read your blog. It was so inspiring with words of gratitude, the reminder of a new season and the thankful letter from Marge! Wishing I had started this blog in the am to have been with me all day. Maybe I’ll reread it in the morning while eating my peanut butter toast!
I brought out my Autumn book and found that I’ve had it since October 2008 when I received it as a birthday present from my co-worker girlfriend : )
I’m so glad that Autumn is just around the corner as it’s my favorite season too!
Looking forward to seeing you for tea on September 20th!
Until then, stay well and keep keeping on. <3
My Birthday is in late August and it is always a sign of Fall coming. It is my happiest time too, like yours. I eagerly await the first sign of color in the trees.
Thank you for your wonderful Blog! It reminds me so much of my mom. She could draw just like you, and how I wish I could. I am a photographer probably because I am not that good with drawing, but need to capture things I love. I have ordered both the Christmas Book and Mug and I simply can not wait for them to arrive! I purchased a ticket and await the Zoom on Sept 20th. I was not able to join the one in Duxbury but watched the replay! It was marvelous. Thank you friend for all your cheer and happiness! HUGS to you too. Best, B.
The new Christmas book looks wonderful! Can’t wait to get a copy!
Such a lovely post … as always! I can certainly relate to the hot and sticky August you’ve been enduring. While this summer has been less horrific than I find most, it also seems to me that the month is just taking forever to pass! I am so looking forward to autumn … cooler days, cooler nights, hopefully a little less insanity in the world … *sigh*
I have purchased all of my favorite fall candles….can hardly wait to burn them. I have also been slowly moving my fall decorations for easy access…..hooray for autumn!
A quote book!!! Yippee! I have saved so many – on bits of paper, a list on my computer, on Pinterest, in a notebook I can’t find half the time, so scribbled on bits of paper. I am so excited! How did I miss hearing about the Zoom party? I am thankful for the link so I can watch it. Sadly fall is a long time coming in Georgia. Last year we saw 90s in October. I love the quote about the two seasons – that is me! And I don’t mind winter either.
Love those tea cups!
I’ve anxiously been waiting for a new blog, you never disappoint!! Looking forward to book of quotes!! Tomorrow I’m getting out my Autumn Book!!! Thank you for being you!!!💝
It’s so comforting to read your blog with the lovely photos, creativity, artwork, and common sense. Thank goodness we can all come together here and renew/refresh our souls. 😊
Wish you did a weekly planner, preferably with month tabs and month calendar;
SO excited for Fall (the ’ember months!) — I just recently discovered the blog and was so delighted! Can’t wait for the new books!
A very beautiful post! I too love the fall – crisp air, colorful leaves, sweatshirts and football and hockey! ❤️
Susan, my friend and I had a proper English tea watching your webinar last week. So much fun. We both love all things English. Thank you so much for doing it.
Hi Beautiful Susan,
Thank you so very much for your uplifting words and lovely illustrations!! I am looking forward to your little Christmas book!! I am also looking forward to your book of quotes!!! I, too, love reading through quote books!!! My favorite season of the year is also Fall!!! I love to wear sweaters, a lovely, soft scarf, and sometimes gloves early in the morning!!! The smell of Fall is my favorite scent!! Take care of yourself and be safe!!! To gathering again soon!!!
Love
Marge
So excited about your quote book! I have always loved collecting quotes. I have scraps of paper all over the house with quotes I have jotted down over the years along with Marcus Aurelius on my nightstand. Pinterest is a good place to corral them too, but it will be wonderful to have your artwork to make them come alive. As much as I love Summer, I am looking forward to some crisp weather too. I brought in a beautiful bouquet of muted hydrangeas in jewel tones to enjoy before they are too far gone, but I also have a large hydrangea tree that is beginning to turn that lovely shade of blush – so pretty! I received an email letting me know my Little Things mug is on the way. Something fun to look forward to, as well as September 20. Titcomb’s is just a few minutes away, looking forward to that Zoom!
Thank you Susan for giving us joy during this time! Looking forward to other zoom parties because I missed yours the other day😞. First grade teacher doing her work! For the love of tea and books and all the little things in life!
Long, hot day here in the Midwest …… but the rich harvest from the fields and gardens fills my day with excitement and purpose. I am savoring these final weeks of summer, tucking away memories and conversations for the cold winter days that are sure to come. As the sun set tonight, very red in the hazy west a reminder to me >>>”To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the Heavens ” Be grateful, and spread grace !
Susan,
Thank you for another wonderful post. I had the pleasure of introducing a girlfriend to your lovely mugs this past weekend. What fun that was,
Stay well and safe,
Jane
Always enjoy reading your blog-and I too love the wonderful days of Autumn.
We drink hot chocolate out of your mugs every night 😊 Love them!
What a joy to follow your blog and hear all your happiness! So much needed now and throughout the year. I have been reading for several years and love the excitement when I see a new one! Thank you Susan.
I love the idea of a quotes book! Looking forward to it and the new Christmas book. Love your work, Susan. You are inspiring.
Love reading your blogs every time. Thanks for cheering us up! Xoxo
Your blogs are the best therapy. Thanks
Hello Susan! Your Zoom Webinar was brilliant! I watched it this evening after dinner and how amazing you were taking all of us girlfriends back to England all over again! Now I want to take my book off the shelf and read it a second time! Seeing you was a delight! Thank you, it was such a treat! As some days, I get what I’ve called “the pandemic pause”…… you know, the kind of day that randomly pops up and you find yourself a little sluggish, a little lazy, sipping too many cups of tea, and still in your pjs at noon. Then, tomorrow comes and you are back on track wondering why yesterday was so still. God is good, and I am so sure that one day soon this twirling world will go back to a new beautiful normal!!! Take care of yourself Susan. Air hugs!
My day today. I am sitting on a pillow in an arm chair with my tea, still in jammies, dark rain-like day outside, pillow on my lap, computer on my pillow, old movie on TV, and reading comments, thinking when I get done with this, after breakfast, thinking apple crisp, I should take a nap!🤣
Thanks so much Susan for thinking of the girlfriends again with a wonderful giveaway. I’m also looking forward to fall. Was thinking of pulling my Autumn book off the shelf but thought it might be too soon. However, I realized that it’s a wonderful book that can be read anytime of the year. Looking forward to adding the the Christmas book to my Susan Branch bookshelf. Keep well and stay safe.
I received my 2nd Blue Bird mug…My first one cracked. 🙁 Thank you. I also have the Blue Bird fabric…love it. Here’s a thank you too for the Zoom meeting. I think we all are anxious for fall! The weather is too weird and hot everywhere among other reasons. 🙂
Your posts always make me happy. I’m so looking forward to autumn, and even winter. Of course, our winters here in OK isn’t as wintery as yours, but are cold enough for soups and crock pot meals and cozying up with a soft throw or quilt. Love the new pumpkin VOTE postcards!
Hi! Susan yes we all r biting at the bit for fall, hslloween. Thanksgiving,Christmas we just want life to be normal again. Lets keep wraring our mask and distancing. God Bless stay safe.
Hello again, OMGOSH. It is 9:45 pm AZ time, in bed, and I just read page 140 The Fairy Tale Girl, and burst out laughing at your, “I tried that, and every other thing to get rid of them.” After my divorce, (and horrible heart break), I moved from Sedona to Camp Verde into a darling apartment and started a vegetable garden. I had always had gardens having fallen in love with “The Secret Garden” my English Aunt gave me when I was 8, but never in my life had gophers until then, and though I rarely ever watched TV, had somehow seen, somewhere, an episode of “Married With Children”, where the father was waging a war against gophers. I do not think I have ever laughed so hard in my life watching that only ever episode of Married With Children. It was so funny because every tactic the dad used to rid their yard of these wretched varmints was precisely what I had done in Camp Verde that year to the point of giving up on the garden. The hose down the hole, everything in nearly the same order as the show. One day two feral kittens showed up under the tree I had planted, laying and staring at something. I left them be, but my 4 year old son and I would watch them alot, and then I realized one day, these two God sends were ridding my yard of the gophers!! These two kittens were the answer to my prayers. I never fed them, so one day we didn’t see them, but the gophers were gone and my garden became a dream garden. It turned out my neighbor across the street had started to feed them, and had become her little darlings. I am horribly allergic to cats, so I was glad they had a happy home. Love love love your life story and the way you tell it is such a delight, just like your blog. Count me officially as a fan. Added to the gazillions who came before me, but it’s never too late until it is. Me mum always said that. I wasn’t going to comment anymore, but your book made me. Haha. Always—dezi
Gophers!⚡️⚡️⚡️😂
Autumn…I get tingles thinking about it. I’ve smelled it in the air for a week! I see trees with red leaves decorating branches & all my flowers giving August a last hurrah. Beautiful post. Hi hope your dinner is a success.
I look forward to your posts as my spark of positivity .And I can’t thank you enough for that.-Mollie
We are all going full speed ahead!!!!! SO, alll the girlfriends will be together for a long time; age in its beauty has no time, like the present. GOD BLESS YOU, & JOE, & YOUR PRECIOUS STAFF. THANK YOU
Dear Susan,
I can’t tell you how much I enjoy your blog and of course, your books. I am blessed to have my 98 year old mother living nearby and I read your blog to her and describe the pictures to her. We too, love Autumn SOOO MUCH…counting the days…so much to look forward to! We actually met you at the Rickshaw Book Store in Danville, CA several years back. Joe was so sweet and gave us VIP treatment, taking us to the front of the line because we were “senior citizens”.
Thank you for all the joy you have brought to so many through the years.
Susanne Christenson
We try to make sure moms-to-be, moms with little ones, and ALL 98 year-olds never have to stand in line!😂 Please tell your mom I said hello … Joe too!💖
Still savoring the dog days of summer here in Ohio. A quote book sounds delightful! I will have to add it to my Susan Branch bookshelf. ♥
Dearest Susan,
Thank you so much for sharing your gift with us all ! You are truly an inspiration, and the joy and love you bring to others is amazing!!! I would love to drink tea out of the bluebird cup as it reminds me of my sweet granny, who wished me bluebirds of happiness in life. What a smile you bring reading your blog.
Cheers, Sherrie
Coffee in one of your cups under a blue September sky would be heavenly♥️
Can’t wait to watch the zoom, am saving it for a time of complete uninterruption. (Is there such a word? Well, there should be, if not.). Lovely uplifting post once again, my heart always does a little flip when your blog arrives in my mailbox. Thank you so much for sending out these messages, which always include so much goodness. I’m right with you awaiting the arrival of fall, ah the coziness.
Susan,
Thank you for the opportunity to win a beautiful prize from you. I would be thrilled to win any of those items! I love reading your blog and all your artwork!
God bless!
Sue Johnson
Looking forward to the new book!
Yay, another Susan post and a long, wonderful newsy one it is. The new book with the quotes is going to be on my list for sure. Years ago, I bought your little square cards with sayings and of course, your sweet art, to slip in friend’s cards but I have never been able to part with them. lol. Gotta love that Joe. What can’t he do? What a super smart ingenious idea to make those picnic tables. Brilliant. So many things to look forward to from you. I have Peter and Mrs. Rabbit on my kitchen window sill a la SB with a little pitcher I purchased at Hill Top that I fill with flowers-also colored glass. I often think of you when I fill that little pitcher with flowers. God Bless!
Oh my goodness Susan,
I was able to read this post finally this morning. On top of all 2020 has brought we had an additional bump in the road; a bathroom overflowed and damaged the floor thoroughly. We hired a handyman and he wasn’t. After walking off with our money we now have to have it all redone….. My heart has been sad and this post filled my tank up. Thank you for you!!!!! I am all set to be at the Zoom party in September….and a book is coming;) We are in Middle TN and we have some weather coming in from Laura, a good day to hunker down with your Autumn book. God bless-Colleen
Love your blog!
So glad you have mastered Zoom. If there is a silver lining in this dampanic, then it is us adult learner’s learning new skills. It keeps our minds sharp .
I can’t wait for your Book of Quotes. I too have kept my own notebook full of my favorite and have many tacked up around my house. Family Circle magazine used to have a page every month titled “Words to Live By” that dropped some quotes by subject. I was sad when they stopped. You actually did one for the December magazine. Here is a great quote for these times by our fav “Anon” – Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not get bent out of shape.
Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place.
Ha ha, that was on the message board for our church across the street! xoxo
Waiting for autumn as well … 🍁🍂 enjoyed your update 😊🐾🌻
Hi Susan; here in the Netherlands , summer was too long and hot; so I am also looking foward to Autumn. So glad I live in a country with 4 seasons! I enjoyed the zoomparty and looking foward to your new books! I would like to join in the giveaway for the beautiful teacups and the christmas book! Love and greetings from the Netherlands from Arjo🍄🍁🍂🍄🍁
Good morning Susan! ☀️🌻☀️
After today’s storms ever will have drier air! Ahh…🍁🍁I am seeing these falling very slowly…for the last two weeks.
Have a great day!
OXOXox
Margot
Good morning !!! I live in Pearsall, Texas.. way south… your stories take me to a place I can only dream of seeing… for a few moments I am far away near the ocean, the flowers and the total opposite of South Texas…
I love all your art work, calendars, books, cups.. EVERYTHING..
Peacefulness and the simple way of life…
Your words are just simple, easy to comprehend and you paint a wonderful picture with your words…
Looking forward until next time… God Bless
🌻🌈🌱🌤🍂😘
I just love your blogs, Susan. When your name appears in my inbox, I get so excited to read your sweet quotes and follow what you and Joe have been up to, and of course, Jack as well. You certainly don’t look a day over 50, so young and still so vibrant and energetic. Wish our world were made up of more wonderful souls like you! Love you Susan! and thanks for sharing your wonderful life that inspires all of us!
Dear One,
You always bring such joy with your emails! It’s pure treasure to see your name in my inbox! Happy Late Summer to you, sweet friend, stay safe and healthy! Much love from Prescott, AZ
Always a delight to see a post from you Susan! Your words and pictures are a reminder of what is good in the world if we just look for it!
Thank you Susan for always being the bright light during dark days. Hoping that we do indeed get to celebrate Halloween with the kids this year….they so deserve some normalcy and something to look forward too.
Have a blessed day.
Kim
Your blog lifts me in ways I didn’t know I needed. Be well.
💖💖💖💖💖
SOOO good to hear from you Susan! I have not yet watched the ZOOM but have it on my list of things to treat myself with as time allows during these last busy days of Summer. I cannot wait for the new books you are doing on quotes–I have been writing them down on scraps here and there, in notebooks, etc. Now I will have them all in a beautiful handwritten, illustrated book! Thank you for that wonderful surprise! Crossing my fingers to be a “Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner!”
I’ve missed you! Thank you for your encouraging thoughts, your lovely art and photos. They lift my spirit immensely. We have been self quarantined more or less since the beginning of March and some days seem so humid, hot and unending. Thank goodness for FaceTime and telling my four year old granddaughter “stories from my mouth” (as she calls them)! Don’t you just love that!
I always enjoy your posts. I too love quotes – what a great idea to create a book (or books)! Autumn is also my favorite time of year. We have already had some cool mornings here in Michigan. Autumn is in the air! Have received my Santa cup but would love another to give away, perhaps to a friend or family member. Your Christmas book sounds wonderful too! I always enjoy your Autumn book and get it out every year when I decorate for Fall. Thanks for all you do to keep our spirits up! Stay healthy and keep creating!💕
I always look forward to all your wonderful post, and especially enjoy your art work throughout…Thank You!!! You are truly a blessing during this difficult time! My daughter has already started her fall decorating, and just purchased your Autumn book. She loved it!!!
It has been a slow year and a fast year, all at the same time! So grateful that my favorite 122 days of the year start on Tuesday. I’m determined to savor every one of them! My “Autumn” book will help me get started. Thank you for being a bright spot in a darkening world.
122 ~ sounds so long doesn’t it! 🎉
Was feeling a little blue this morning but all is well now that I’m curled up with cat Minnow, cozy blanket, tea, and a nice new blog post from you. Thanks for always brightening my day❤️
SUSAN, I’VE BEEN A FAN FOR SOOOO MANY YEARS AND PULL OUT EACH SEASON’S BOOK AS SOON AS MY CALENDAR LETS ME.
I HAVE ASKED BEFORE (AND NEVER LET IT STOP ME) BUT AS YOU CHANGE FONT? YOUR WORDS BECOME UNREADABLE ON MY SCREEN – IS IT JUST MY COMPUTER? IT ALSO PUTS UPSIDE DOWN (?) AND OTHER STRANGE MARKS. IF THERE’S SOMETHING I CAN DO, I’D APPRECIATE IT
Hi Kedra! Try refreshing and let me know if that fixes it. I haven’t done anything new. Thank you!
“ Zooming with Susan”was such a treat. Many thanks!
I’ve ordered your Christmas from Amazon. I’m forward to receiving it.
Enjoy your upcoming el fresco dinner party.
Dear Susan,
I think I’m ready for Fall too! The garden is looking a little tired and we actually had a few very cool nights that just brought that feeling of change. As always, thank you for the beauty and joy you share!
Christie
Hi Susan, it’s been what I call a Savannah summer here in the Atlanta, GA suburbs. Hot sticky wet air for 2 months now. I dream of the Cape (my favorite place) and that fresh sea air but it sounds like the Cape & Islands are muggy too. Fall is my favorite season as well. Thank you for stirring the autumn spirit up in me today! Love to you, Kate
Pure pleasure reading your blog!! Releases those ‘good for you’ endorphins 🙂
Thank you so much! Blessings, Kathy
Susan, dear friend, thank you for your lovely Duxbury zoom program that I was fortunate enough to be in on from Hendersonville, North Carolina. It was so sweet that I watched and listened with tears in my eyes! You are wonderful and such an inspiration for love, hope and goodness in this dam panic world of ours. Your recipes are my go-tos, bringing joy to our table and comfort that good food well prepared brings. Fall is also my favorite time of year and not just because my birthday is on October 22. The cool, crisp air redolent with scents of fallen leaves, ripening apples, wood smoke, and baking fills my heart with joy! The stifling, oppressive humidity is replaced by cool breezes that invite warm, cozy sweaters, gloves, and hats that are ever so stylish in their rich, vibrant colors. New hope surges through me as I walk through crunchy leaves on pathways painted with beautiful colors that have lain hidden underneath their lush green mantle since spring. Our Blue Ridge Mountains put on a vibrant show that no covid virus can stop our enjoyment of. Driving our curvy, twisting roads or hiking brings oohs and ahs at every turn and vista. Sheer heaven that I have been lucky enough to enjoy since childhood. Now I’m off to plan sweet little pleasures of cooking and crafting fall delights to enhance this gorgeous season for home, family, and friends – a very easy task with my stack of Susan Branch books!
The quote book looks awesome! Hope it fits into one big big book to sit by the fire with hot chocolate and a blanket and read and read and read!
Always such a treat when you post a new blog! Thanks for taking the time to share all this with us.
So looking forward to the new book! Love the cups too! Xx
Susan, I check your website everyday to read your uplifting stories and thoughts for everyday life.
Excited this morning to check and see and read your new post. Made the beginning of my day great!
Thank you, Laurie
I love your posts. They bring light to the day
I love your post. It brings light for the day!
1
I so enjoy your newsletter – a bright spot in my email. Looking forward to fall – can’t wait to get out the decorations, but not rushing, just living one day at a time and thankful for each day’s blessing. Bless you!