Hello my friends … First … deep breath, and a cup of something ~ go get it, I’ll wait. I’m no good without you anyway. I promise not say a thing of substance before you get back (and maybe never🤣, we shall see). Perhaps some fine olde MUSICA to send you on your way? MUSICA…
You back? Okay, here we go . . . Ahhhhh, these bewitching late summer nights are what I live for. They are the thing that made me stay here forever. Doors and windows open, cool air blowing through, leaves beginning to drift, talking into the night accompanied by the songs of crickets, with bug buckets glowing . . . Know what a bug bucket is? It’s that ⬇️ … a big candle in a bucket that burns citronella to keep bugs away … we surround our chairs with them.
Darkness falls streaking the sky in pink and lavender, bug buckets and twinkle lights lit . . . quiet voices in the night . . . making some summer souvenirs . . .💞
Stars shining bright above us🎵 . . . and for a while we forget the troubles of the world . . . and lose ourselves in the hearts, memories, and laughter of our friends . . .
You can’t solve all the world’s problems. Now go wash your hands and come to the table. 💖My Mom
So basically, that’s what we’ve been doing, coming to the table. Definitely a thing of substance, you can tell by the way the trees are leaning in to listen. We did it last night and we’re doing it tomorrow night. I feel like I’m trying to grab onto a speeding car! September being the car.🍂🍁🍂
I’ve been wandering through my recipe books. We’re making Chili for tomorrow (p.78 in my Autumn book or right 
HERE), in fact it’s cooking on top of the stove right now. I’m sorry to all the other chili makers out there, but this recipe is the BEST in the world. Please give it a try. Deep, dark, and delicious. The other night we put fresh littleneck clams in our linguini, tossed a spoonful of pesto on the top of each dish … and served it with my dad’s delicious buttery garlic bread, so so so good, you can read about it HERE.
And of course my shadow hangs out in the kitchen while I’m cooking, he is always where I am. Next to me now, I reach to pet him, on your behalf, big round eyes look up ~ tiny mew! This is his birthday month! He’s almost ten! How can that BE?
And this, because NOW is the time for juicy, sun-ripened garden tomatoes ~ pop them into a jar with basil, garlic, and olive oil, and then into the sun for a few hours. It’s one of my favorite summer recipes.
And corn? Have you had your allotted amount of fresh corn yet this summer? Now’s the time, those little kernels are popping off the cobs … and, do not forget this wonderful recipe for Corn Chowder … put it in a mug for a cool evening in the garden . . .
Joe’s homemade picnic tables turned out great … We had our first sit-down dinner for six since last winter! It’s been a dinner-drought during this DamPanic! And everyone was at least 6′ away!
So many memories under this arbor … not only ours, but for the people who lived here before us.
Especially the Bowditch family. Mr Bowditch built this arbor, Mrs. Bowditch named it the Teahouse of the August Moon . . . we love these people so much, I’ve told you before, they owned our house from 1949 to 1980 and left us so many gifts. Like their forever-foundation of rose arbors, creaky wooden floors, old trees, and a fireplace that can talk. They are gone but not forgotten.
“O’ thou who has given us so much, grant us one thing more, a grateful heart.” 💝 George Herbert
The other blessing of these summer nights . . . the beautiful moon we share with the whole world. But, this moon is not seeing the same thing everywhere it looks. As it drifts across America this year, it sees less and less twinkle lights and more and more hungry, isolated, and homeless people 💔, NOT enjoying 
linguini in Clam Sauce, wishing for a big bowl of corn chowder, longing for a breath of fresh air from a pure breeze over a clean moon, and no smoke, and no heat, no orange skies, and a peaceful end to this 
crazy year that Michelle, one of our girlfriends, described as “the new cuss word,” as in “I don’t give a 2020.” But we DO give a 2020, don’t we? I’m showing my gratitude, best I can, by donating an early Christmas present to Feed America and the Red Cross. And we can’t forget our darling animal friends who make our earth a brighter place to be. When humans are in trouble, animals are in more trouble. We can’t do everything, we can’t all be nurses or firefighters or teachers, or first responders, heroes all, but we can do something, don’t ever think a dollar doesn’t matter.💞 They need us, and we need them and . . .
So what else magic people . . . ?
This, me, painting for the (OMG) 2022 calendars. You know I did my first calendar in 1993? Almost 30 years of celebrating the days! With a few time-offs for good behavior! But I love every moment of it. Writing out the words of distilled genius, painting these little letters . . .
Letters that go perfectly with now. So, dinner at the Teahouse of the August Moon requires tablecloths! Which gives us this wonderful thing I wanted to share with you in case your dreamy fall-wind ration is wanting . . . here’s some of ours…
XOX
Laundry is the very best way to catch the wind . . . (Ah, but I may as well try . . .🎵)
First little leaves are floating out of the trees ~ this one got caught in a clothes pin!
Mmmmm, line-dried laundry . . . even folding it smells good.💓
For us lucky ones, these are lovely days of noticing the little things in life . . .💓
Good morning sunshine . . .☀️
What’s on the porch? Oooo, heavy … oh my!!! Could it be? Little heart flutter …
Yes! Home for Christmas has come in for a landing! The little baby is born. My first view of it. 💞
Hello Baby! We think the rest of the books will arrive at the Studio tomorrow, or maybe Monday, but SOON… and then, off they 
go, to everyone who preordered, first come, first serve! 💝 With all my heart.💖
I should tell you, even though I do not like to say it, and I’m sure you do not want to hear it, but my precious mother went to heaven in April. I’m sorry. I’m one of those people who can’t talk about such things for a long time, it takes me a while to learn how to live with it if that’s even possible. But from the moment she went on hospice care, I began writing this Christmas story. I wrote all through late winter into spring. I was with her the entire time 
and she was with me. It was the perfect place to be. She’s the “Home” in Home for Christmas. I knew a lot of you had figured it out, and I was sure that when you read the new book you would ask, so I’m sharing it now, because in so many ways, you knew her too. She was in my right hand at the writing of every book, the hand connected to my heart that connected me to you. It’s her spirit of love you read on every page. Dearest person, mom of eight, wise beyond her years. She said the simplest things, like, “You know the difference between right and wrong.” And she convinced me I did!
Patricia Louise Smith Stewart, a girl after my own heart.
I immediately sat down and read the first book out of the box and made myself cry. You know I’m okay. My mom WANTED to go to heaven. It was the right thing at the right time. Thanking you ahead for all your kind thoughts. You don’t have to say a thing. Because we both already know.💞
And because I have it now, guess who gets the next three copies from my box of Home for Christmas? Oh yeah, YOU! Let’s draw the names of our winners!! Our random number generator, the famously wicked and charming Vanna, named for another talented Vanna, is ready for the pick! I say, You go girl! And she does! Down, down, down, deep into thousands of names she dives, scissor-kicking to the bottom, crinkled slips of paper like from a fortune cookie flying through the air, each one has a name, and here she comes … her green eyes are sparkling with success as she hands me the three bits of paper, and back down she goes, into the melee, on her next quest: to find the winners of the cups! SO, let me see, I’ll give you the names and a bit of identifying something from their comments, so there won’t be any mixups … the winners for the Books are, drum roll please . . .
Katie Craig! She’s one of our heroes, a teacher working very hard to make things right for her kids during Covid!👏🎉
Number two, is Karen Giordano! She wrote that my Autumn Book is her Labor Day tradition!👏 🎊
And last but not least, Susan Karasievich ~ she appreciates fairy tales!👏🎈
Kindred spirits, all!💞 Congratulations! I will send you an email soon and you can send me your address and what name I should write in your books and off they will go!
And Next? Three cups . . . fingers crossed, Girlfriends, I hope you win one of them!
And here we go: For the Bluebird cup . . .
The winner is …. Marie from Chester, Oh! our girlfriend in England! Hi Marie! Looks like you’re going to surprise your sister! xoxo 💝
Next is the Santa cup . . . are you ready Linda Beck? You better be! (Perfect because she has been “coveting” cups!)💓
And very last (except we’ll do it again someday)… the winner for the Little Things cup . . . Here we go! It’s Amy from Wisconsin ~ Yay Amy! (she moved back to Wisconsin in 1979 and she’s been happy ever since)!!!🎉
So happy for you all! 👏
Here’s the full-page ad I did for the Nov-Dec issue of Yankee Magazine ~ it tells more about Home for Christmas … look for it and a smaller version in Victoria Magazine!
I hope I’m going to see some of you in my magic mirror on September 20th, at 3:30 pm EST, for Sunday Tea with me and Titcomb’s Bookshop. It’ll be on Zoom, so easy if you haven’t tried it yet (believe me I don’t know what I’m doing either, but let’s not let that stop us!), you can Google “Youtube, how to do Zoom” and they will show you how. It’s going to be another BYOTea, just like today, except with zoom-a-vision … Go HERE to sign up.
So what else might I have in my bag of tricks? Oh yes, because I heard you when you asked . . . here they are, Holiday Cooking Greeting Cards! You’ll see I write about my mom’s famous Snippy Doodle in the new book, so I thought you might like the recipe! And of course, who doesn’t love Cranberry Marmalade! Something to share!
Ten cards with envelopes, and each package comes with a candy cane bookmark! For Thanksgiving, or Christmas, or for any old reason, because the more connection to each other, the better!!💞
This is inside Cranberry Marmalade . . .
And here’s Snippy Doodle.
And here’s the back for both of them! A kiss across continents! Christmas Cards are coming soon!
And another good thing happened, the 3rd printing of Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams has finally arrived . . . in case you were looking for one… they are BACK! And FYI, just so you know, the new puzzle is right on schedule⏰ … they should be in at the end of October. Perfect timing!💓 And so, sweet people, off I go … Until next time . . .
If you can,
Thank you for everything . . .💞 See you next time! I have an idea about the next post. Can’t wait!👏
Oh Susan..I have been thinking and wondering about your Mom for months..just waiting to hear a little something, but this wasn’t what I expected to hear. Oh how we love our Mom’s, the Valley Mom’s who brought us up in that wonderful place outside LA..mine has been gone 20 years now and I tear up just writing these words to you. I so understand why you didn’t tell us right away or if you did in some way, I missed it, maybe I wanted to miss it.
Wasn’t the Valley magic in the days? Just kids on bikes, and busy moms stopping to talk to each other in the street, one eye on us. We were so lucky!
those were the best days, i can still remember all the neighborhood kids out on bikes and playing games on the sidewalks and our moms out chatting with the neighbors and keeping an eye on us…. i lost my mom in 1996 to pancreatic cancer, every now and then i think she is around watching over me. those were the best of days. 😀
Oh I feel exactly the same, there she is, all tranquility, smiling down from her photo on the wall…
Oh yes it was Susan….Halloween was my favorite time of year…dressing up and out the door…not a worry in the world..only to get back home and empty a bed pillow bag of treats to see who got the most..
We had one lady on the other side of our block who gave out FULL SIZED CANDY BARS. I never forgot her!
This time… well you touched my heart & made me cry, the good kind of cry where you managed to bring up cherished buried away memories & feelings. What a treasure to know the unconditional love of a momma and that reciprocal love of her daughter. Blessed beyond Measure Susan!
With Gratitude,
Em
I don’t know how I am going to get through the 412 comments I found here this morning, because they are SO BEAUTIFUL, and kind, and dear, that I’m sitting here in tears. Thank you Em …. xoxoxo
we had a neighbor who gave out these huge Hershey bars every Halloween, it was a full-time job keeping dad away from our candy as he adored Hershey bars and would try to sneak into our stash to those huge bars. i loved Halloween in our neighborhood. no store bought costumes, just home made ones and costumes created from our dress up trunks.
Us too! All homemade! Such cute costumes too, weird, and wonderful!
Delightful as ever to be a part of Susan Branch’s girlfriends world. Please accept my condolences in the passing of your beloved mother. Hugs, Memarge
Happy to see you here Memarge, and thank you so much. xoxoxo
I met your Mother who was with you in California in Arroyo Grande where you had your adorable little shop on Branch St that I loved to visit…you were signing books and she was sitting to your left in a chair in the shade in the back of your shop…you served Champagne with big fat juicy Raspberries, so delicious…it was such fun to meet you…you were gracious and warm and you signed my book purchase which was your Girlfriends book for my best friend…of 45 years now…I knew all that you wrote when I met your Mom that day was completely as authentic and sincere as you are and that was so fun to know…she looked at you with such love and pride…it’s a wonderful blessing for those left behind when someone you love is ready to go…my beloved Grannie gave me a Bible inscribed with the words ‘see you in Heaven’many years ago… she was my Angel on Earth when she passed away at 91..the last time I saw her she told me…”I pray the Angels come to take me tonight”…a couple of nights later…they did…and now she’s my Angel in Heaven just like your Mom is now your Heavenly instead of Earthly Angel now…always with you, always watching over you Susan…I miss her everyday but am so happy to know she is just fine…
Thank you for that memory Cindy. She is my angel in heaven. She’s there with her mom and that makes me happy. As I’m reading these beautiful comments, once again I am struck with the power of connection. I feel so blessed. Thank you!💖
Oh Susan, I’m so sorry for your loss of your mother. This year has been so full of difficulty, heartache and tragedy, and losing one’s mother is like losing a piece of your own heart and soul. Sending you hugs from California dear one and I will keep you and your family in prayer.
Love & peace,
Maureen
Susan,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mom. I am blessed to have a wonderful mom who is always there when I need her so i can imagine how difficult the loss is for you. I am excited to see your new book, can’t wait for my own copy. Stay well, enjoy fall🍁🍂
Love and hugs,
Stephanie
Oh Susan, I’m so sorry to hear about your dear Mom. Her spirit surely shines through you!♡
I am heartbroken you lost your mum Susan. I know you didn’t want us to say anything, but I can’t help myself, having gone through the same thing myself just last year. I know my mother is in a better place and I will see her again one day, but my how I miss her. I am just not in so much of a hurry to get there. Not yet anyways!
My what a world we are living in at the moment. If it wasn’t for little sparks of light (like you and your books, blogs, calendars, etc.) what would we have. Thank you for always being a spark of light. I saw this fabulous quote the other day, “If all around you looks dark, have you considered that you just might be the light.” (or something like that at any rate.)
We are surrounded with light, problem is the dark voices shout louder. We just need to drown out those dark voices with our own lights.
And speaking of light, I am over the moon about winning the bluebird cup! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! My sister is going to be so surprised and thrilled, I just know it. How wonderful is that! I have one and now she will have one too. We can toast each other with hot cuppa’s from across the pond and both in a beautiful cup. The Bluebird of Happiness. I can’t wait to tell her. You made me cry. I am so happy.
Thank you so much for all that you have shared with us for so many years. And for all the joy you bring into our lives. You are a true treasure and light. xoxo
Hi Marie! I JUST this minute sent you an email to get your address! I’m so happy for you and your sister!! Very rough time for her, and I’m sure you feel every bit of it yourself. I love your quote … we can all shine a little light as you are doing yourself. Yes, those dark voices have very big mouths … yet there are SO MANY more of us. Why is that? It’s like they weigh 10 pounds and we weigh one ounce in the scheme of things. LOOK at all those Red Cross volunteers, just for starters, the WORLD over … so many more of us! Have yourself a wonderful day Marie. Keep shining that light! xoxoxo
Dear Susan, I love reading your blog from here in England! I am so sorry to hear that you have lost your Mum. My Mum had to go into care this summer and because of Covid I can only visit her once a week and I miss her so much. And I too need time to accept these things … I get there … it just takes time. My thoughts are with you. xxx
Blessings on you and your mom, Vanessa … such a hard time. Sending love. xoxoxo
Susan, you really inspire me with your wonderful recipes and good words.
I was brought to tears even before reading about your mother’s passing.
I was so sorry to hear it– she seems so very special and is still living on in your writings. I will think of her when I am reading your special books.
You brought me to tears in mentioning the people we tend to forget about in this DamPanic. Thanks for the words to remember them.
My husband and I are trying to be grateful in this situation. We really are fortunate to be retired, owning our own home and having a beautiful yard with room to enjoy nature,etc.
Thank you for the wonderful recipes. They are so appropriate for this season and I cannot wait to try them.
Thank you also for lifting our spirits and reminding us to be grateful and appreciate that we are truly blessed. We are truly blessed to have you.
I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of your dear mom. My heart goes out to you and I an only imagine the heartache you must be feeling. Sending big hugs your way and healing wishes. Also, want to congratulate the lucky winners!!! Hugs to you!!! Sharon
Dear Susan,
I am so terribly sorry to hear that you lost your beloved Mother. I can tell how wonderful she must have been just by knowing you. We reflect the best parts of our parents thanks to the loving way they raised us. Take comfort in your memories as you grieve.
Our thoughts are with you.
XOXO
Gabri & Nicoline
Warm hugs for you Susan, losing a parent is so very hard.
Thank you for being my friend 😻
😘
Dear Susan,
Thank you for the beautiful video of your vintage tablecloths blowing in the fall air, (and bonus) on Martha’s Vineyard even more special!
There’s just something about clothes on a line that makes you feel carefree. When I was young one of my chores was hanging laundry, and I always loved it, maybe it was the wonderful smell, the awesome feel when they are dry, or just the way they blow in the breeze ♥️ Ahhhhhh
So again I thank you for being a kindred spirit of clothes lines 🧺
Love that, the Kindred Spirit of Clotheslines!
What a wonderful blog about your summer activities. So sorry to hear about your mom. I lost my mom in 2017 and dad in 2018. Dad would say I am not anxious to die but I am ready to go. Now they are together again.
Oh, Susan. So very sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. My own mother came from a large family (10 siblings!) and, while my grandmother had passed before I had a chance to know her, I love hearing about her and all the ways she wove magic into my mom’s childhood. I so look forward to your Christmas book and once again ‘meeting’ your mom through your words. It is clear that she embodied love.
♥️ ♥️ ❤️-Susan, thank you for bringing such joy to the world. You are a light that shines bright!
Dearest Susan…..You bring such light and joy into the world, the flame ignited by your Mom! Such a gift indeed! The light now shines within you ever more brightly. May God richly and abundantly bless your day today. Colleen
I’m just sure your mom is with mine and my dear Gram.
And my Gram made them all cake.
Cause doesn’t cake make everyone happy.
Giant hugs to you sweet friend.
Congrats to the lucky winners.
So much fun
Beautiful Fall is on the way.
Trace
I am so sorry your Mom passed, but you are right she will always be with you! Thank you for all your encouraging words and helping us all cope with 2020. We must all find ways to help one another. I love the last picture of Jack, what a character! Love & hugs to you and yours!
Very happy for Marie…for all the winners. Condolences to you and your family. Time Passages. It’s finally cooling down here. We’ve had some dark,thundery days, my favorite kind of days for snack cake baking and soup making. Comforts….
the candy cane bookmark is just everything! i love it….i also am going TO THE VIRTUAL TEA!!!! YAY!!! i can’t wait!!! from, hot and humid nothing-at-all-like-Martha’s-Vineyard Oklahoma…i’ll be there with bells on!!! i will look forward to it all next week!!! i’m dancing around in my robe! tea with Susan Branch! and i took a picture of my virtual ticket so i’ll always remember and pretend i’m really there!
i’m so sorry about your precious mother…..whenever i read your books and all about your growing-up years….your mother sounded like such a wonderful, endearing woman…you have always described her so well, it’s like we all knew her to a T! heaven and life after this one is so mystical, mysterious and magical….my dad is there and i think every day as i miss him that he must be getting a wonderful dose of fascination every day….or however time is measured wherever they all are….i think it’s pure happiness and love always there.
thank you for mentioning teachers….we have received so much criticism in our town….schools, administrators and teachers. i’m just so very thankful i have a job….teachers are working harder than ever learning things they never have done and that no one knows how to do.
bless you!
Creating a new world, and really, who BETTER to do it than our wonderful teachers who work so hard to make things better. I can’t thank you enough Ashley!
Thank you for everything! I’m sorry you lost your mom physically but I know you can still feel her. I hate this dam-panic but you always cheer me up. XOXO – Larkin
Like so many of us, reading of the loss of your mother reminded me of the loss of my own. I’m sorry for your loss (I know I didn’t have to write that but I wanted to because it’s true). I wanted you to know that when I get your blog in my inbox, I do an “oh boy!” inside and save it for when I can sit down with my bluebird cup (love it SO MUCH), click into the “musica” and savor every word and picture. It’s a treat for sure and I love it so much. In my living room is a decoration on a beautiful Japanese dresser that belonged to my grandmother. Two beautiful blue stone bookends and within? Your books, ribbon markers all lying straight out from the spines…in a row, like soldiers. Having lived in my beloved Arroyo Grande, CA and having a visit to Martha’s Vineyard be high in my bucket list, and being an artist myself connects me to you and means I live vicariously through your blog. Ha! Happy Fall…no matter if it is a 2020 one.
I’m honored Linda… 💞
Oh Susan ! I am so sorry. It seems that mothers of large bunches of kids are meant to have them. There is something magical in the way they can make your childhood so fun. How the meals were always there and clean clothes in your drawers! They always knew what each child was doing and where everyone is. Memories will help you thru and I think you have some great ones. Take care and again my heart aches with you.
Susan, I’m just so so grateful for you. Your writing brings so much joy to my days. I often catch myself thinking, “Be more like Susan, find the joy in this moment.” I’m so sorry about the loss of you mom…what a beautiful soul. Sending love to you and your family! Thank you for generously sharing your gifts with us.
When I read of you losing your mum, it touched me deeply. My mum passed away in July just shy of her 101st birthday. I miss our chats and her sense of humour.
I’m so glad you have Joe, Jack and a big family to support you along with all of your ‘friends’ worldwide. My sympathies to you, Susan. “See” you on the 20th!
Dear Susan, I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of your dear mother. Your mother was a special person that raised a special daughter to always cherish her. I lost my mother on March 20, 2011….the first day of spring. My mother was always my best friend and I miss she and my dad terribly. (My dad passed away on December 1, 2002). So I know how you feel…..you never really get over the loss of someone who raised you, taught you right from wrong, loved you unconditionally, provided for you, played games with you, taught you how to cook and sew, and I could go on and on, but I won’t. I am so sorry.
I love this blog and all the others you send. September will come and go fast….it always does. I love the pictures of the moon and your surroundings, and even your clothes on the line….they are so beautiful. They remind me of the pictures in Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams. I remember when my mother used to hang clothes out on the clothes line….she did that many years, until dad bought a dryer for her. But even after that she would still sometimes put clothes out on a line. You are so right about all the blessings God has bestowed upon us and I do appreciate them. I hope the world will start to appreciate them too. Thank you again for your lovely words…blessings to you and Joe. P.S. I can’t wait to read your new book when it comes!!!!
Susan, Your precious parents live on in your books for all of us. What a great testament of your love 💖 you have shared with all of us. My own dear parents memories are in my heart forever and grow ever sweeter. Our beautiful fall here in the Blue Ridge Mountains is blessing and renewing our souls with cool fresh mornings that wipe away the sticky humid summer memories. Our steps quicken to bring out favorite cozy sweaters, make spiced cider to enjoy with Grasmere gingerbread (recipe found online) while perusing your Autumn cookbook for recipes to warm our kitchen and fuel our walks through crunchy leaves down country lanes. Thank you, Susan, for all the joy you have given us in so many ways – stories that warm our hearts, recipes to make us kitchen stars🌟and show our love to our families, calendars that make each day special, puzzle works of art, dishes that make our tables works of art, and so many accessories that bring beauty to the simplest chores like writing a grocery list or wiping a dish dry. You are greatly appreciated and valued! Enjoy your exquisite Teahouse of the August Moon. So charming that you can have tea and cakes there with the fairies! I’m eagerly awaiting my copy of Home for Christmas. My most precious momento is a beautiful felt stocking from my Grandparents. It is hand stiched and appliqued with Christmas cutouts, and adorned with jingle bells. Thank you for being you Susan!!!!!!
Susan,
Thank you for always making me smile with your posts.
I’m so sorry you lost your mom but I know she will forever be with us in your books and paintings.
This was the perfect post for we autumn lovers, it has to be one of my favorite seasons.
xo,
Karen
I hadn’t said I am so sorry about your mom before, because I figured you wouldn’t be able to see through the tears to answer our comments. Back in your April 27 post, I wondered if your mum had passed. I remember wanting to leave you a comment saying I too have played jacks my whole life, but I suppose it’s a good thing I had no clue how to leave a comment then, as you weren’t ready to allow us to grieve with you. I love your mum. I lost mine when I was thirty. She was 65. Si I grieve with you sweet lady, and know she is in a wonderful place. 💕😭❤️💕😭
My mother will soon be 91. She still lives independently with her 2nd husband at a retirement community in the town I grew up in. I dread the day that I have to give her up. She is my constant–even when I go for weeks without hearing from her. So sorry your mom is now gone.
On a lighter note….How can Jack be almost 10!! That seems almost impossible to me although Vanessa the Corgi just celebrated her 13th and that seems just as impossible to me.
I can’t wait to get that Christmas book in the mail. I am currently back in the pages of your Autumn book and planning what is for supper. ☺
Susan one of your greatest fans won a beautiful mug:) Marie from Chester.I am so happy for her.
Stay well :)Life was so much simpler when I met you at Titcomb’s:)
I was so happy to see her name! Titcombs, way back then, felt like a WHOLE OTHER THING!!! Isn’t it wonderful they are still there, sturdy and strong!?!
Reading of your Mom’s passing brought back memories of my own Mom’s passing. Loving, caring and the heart of our family, too. Forty years later she is a flash of memories many times in a day or month. Her quirky thrifty habits, her love of babies (she had four), and how she made every Thanksgiving and Christmas special. She is the voice that reminds me of “how to act like a lady” and even at 80, her little voice reminding me” if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all”. I’m looking forward to getting my copy of the new Christmas book. Sending virtual hugs to you and all your family. Your Mom was someone we all held dear.
We had the same mom!!!💞
What a lovely way to begin my day, reading this blog. I lost my Mom just 4 years ago and it feels like yesterday. I wish heaven had telephones… thinking of you and your Mom and the love you shared. xx
I had a wonderful moment when I read the bottom of the September page on my calendar. The Eskimo legend about stars being our loved ones looking down upon us with love is one I have shared with so many, including myself. I never know its origin so thank you so much!
Going to go cook something yummy and fall-like from your Autumn book.
Take best of care,,, xx Wendy
I am so sorry to hear that your sweet mom has passed away. I feel like I know her from all the stories you’ve told in your books and on the blog. Thank goodness for the memories and the stories. I wish I could go to the tea, but 3:30 is such a bad time for me. I pick my granddaughter up at school at 3:06, then it’s snacks and games and all the wonderful girl time with her. I’m sure I will be able to watch it later, if it’s posted like the last one was. I got an e-mail saying my Christmas book is on the way. EEEEK! I’m so excited. Also, just so you know, I have been praying extra, extra hard these days for everyone on the west coast. I know you have so many friends and family members there, and pray they are all ok. 2020 really is a swear word.
Dear Susan, saw your photo of the night sky and thought of James Taylor’s lyrics, “God’s sweet lanterns hanging in the sky.” Your mom and mine, and our dads are a few of those “sweet lanterns.” Take care.
Oh Susan ♥️♥️
September is a great month. On the cusp of fall. 🍁
Happy early birthday Shelly! 🎂 ☺️
Susan, I’m sorry to hear about your mom. She will live on through you as you spread your light to the world.
Susan, I just enjoyed reading your blog so much! I felt like I was right with you every step of the way enjoying your day and evening activities! Now back to reality in sunny,hot Florida! I lost my Mom 21 years ago and still think I should call her at times! Sorry for your loss. You have your fond memories to look back at.
Love from another, Susan
My dear mom is gone as well. I lost her in 2004 to Alzheimer’s. What a horrible disease. I’ll tell ya….it’s a whole different ballgame when your mom doesn’t know your name. I drove 120 miles every week to do the laundry, cook, clean and care for her. (My dad was pretty spoiled and didn’t know how to do much). Before she passed and finally had to go in to an assisted living house she said my name. I can’t tell you how that made me feel. Before when I was doing her hair she would say “Thank you kind friend.” I almost wanted to cry. I’m so sorry for your loss. God’s blessings to you.❤️❤️❤️❤️
Dearest Susan. You never cease to inspire. You are so special. Thanks for sharing. Hilary
Susan, I lost my mother 19 years ago but was fortunate to have her live with me the last 7 years of her 93 years. The loss is difficult to deal with, but eventually only the good memories abide with us.
Here in Oregon we are experiencing horrible fires and smoke. Entire towns have disappeared. Your clothesline video gave me hope for fresh breezes in the future. Give Jack a ring toss for his birthday. Our animals are so precious a gift. Enjoy each moment especially on this 9/11. Your blog is a bright spot in so many lives.
So sorry for your loss of your mom. I still miss my mom even after 16 years. I am look forward to receiving my copy of your new Christmas book and reading your loving tribute to your mom.
Dear Sue….
Your Blog always gives us all such a fun lift! ♥️😘
I’m so sorry about the loss of your sweet mama….😢. I know what a huge influence she was in you becoming who you are today! Mothers do that, and I know your mom was one of the best! She was so proud of you, and the influence you’ve had on our world to be a happier place! ♥️♥️ My mom is almost 93, and still living on her own…amazing! I’m trying to spend as much time with her as possible because I know she doesn’t have that many years left.
I’m very appreciative that I still have her to enjoy!
I’ve preordered your new Christmas book, and can’t wait to see it! I know it will give us all a fun lift during these difficult days our world is experiencing right now! 🎅♥️
Happy Fall to you, and know how much I love you! ♥️😘🥰.
Thank you Sue!! xoxo 😘
So lucky Bonnie! Hugs to you both, and Tom too!
Thank you, Susan, for all your sharing. You will never know how many hearts you touch and inspire. I am grateful for you…
Hi, Susan! Wonderful post as always. I look forward to new ones and enjoy looking back at older ones. Love sharing your outlook on life. Sorry about your mom’s passing. It is nice that she wanted to go to heaven. You do have such good memories of a great mom.
Hi Susan. I took the liberty of sharing one of my very favorite passages that has brought me great comfort over the years. May your mother’s memory be a blessing to you.
Death is nothing at all. It does not count. I have only slipped away into the next room. Nothing has happened. Everything remains exactly as it was. I am I, you are you, and the old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by the old familiar name. Speak of me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without an effort, without the ghost of a shadow upon it. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is an absolute and unbroken continuity. What is this death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just round the corner.
All is well.
——Henry Holland
as cited by Rosamunde Pilcher in September
Perfectly wonderful. Thank you!💖
Susan, my condolences on the passing of your amazing mom. She’ll always stay alive in your heart & memories and through your amazing books. It’s almost 27 yrs. since I lost my mom and I miss her and remember what a wonderful mom & grandma she was. I’m always excited to see you in my inbox and know that you will give me joy and optimism in this hard to believe time we’re all living through. I miss having a cat so much and I love seeing photos of Jack – what a darling! Made my first apple crisp and looking forward to road trips through the foliage of my New Hampshire.
So good to read your blog on this rainy Friday in eastern Iowa. We’ve had rain on and off since Saturday and it’s been good to get as we have drought conditions. Just wish we could send some to California, Oregon and Washington. Keeping them and so many in our prayers. And, like you, donating money so it can be used where it’s needed most.
Thank you for the joy you bring to so many.
Here’s sending a big hug to the world. God bless.
Life is not the same after we lose our Moms and we find a way to go on without them but we feel them all around us. One of my favorite quotes is “What we leave behind is not engraved in stone monuments but woven into the lives of others” – Pericles Sending you much love and many happy moments enjoying Autumn in your beloved Marthas Vineyard. Take good care, Susan!
Thanks for ending my week with a big smile on my face! I get so excited when I see a new blog – I know that all sorts of happy things are in store.
My dear almost 93-year-old Mom is also wishing to go to Heaven, so I know how you feel. So sorry that you, and all of us, have to go through sad times like that. But so happy that we can rejoice that they are in a better place.
Can’t wait to get my puzzle and Christmas book, both of which I ordered in advance. Thank you so much for the happy thoughts!
Carol Ann in TN
Dear Susan,
So sorry to here about the loss of your sweet mama. Sending you oodles of hugs your way. Your mama raised an amazing woman. We are all so blessed to have you in our lives. Thank you for all of your inspiration and always sending us love.
Happy Fall 🍁
Take care,
Debbie Rockholm from Valencia, CA
I’m just going to say that I cried. That is all.
xxooxx
😪😘
Much much love❤️
Dear Susan,
I am so very sorry. Your mom will always be in your heart. That is where I keep mine. Thank you, once again for your blog. I love it so, it is balm to my soul at this very time. In Ashland, OR we narrowly missed a huge fire a few days ago and the next town over was burned. The air has been and continues to be very smoky. It is lovely to look at the stars on your blog and listen to the whipping of fresh air on your line of sheets. Thank you for being there and all the wonderful pics of Jack.
The loss is huge, Susan. I’m SO sorry. ❤️
Dear Susan,
It is always with sadness when I hear about the loss of another mom. Mom’s are a blessing from God, aren’t they? And you can never forget them. They stay with you forever. My mom has been gone for 23 years this Christmas, taken way too soon, and it still feels like she is here with me in every moment. Because you had such a wonderful mom, your memories will always be sweet, such a blessing:-). I am excited to see your holiday recipe notes for sale. I’ve been sending your other delightful ones to friends over the last few weeks with little treats tucked inside to brighten and encourage them during COVID. Now i can do that again at Christmas! Thank you for your amazing talent and your kindness in sharing it with all of us. I pray this Christmas will be filled with love for you and that your siblings will be there, embracing, each other, and you, remembering the woman who gave you such a wonderful life:-).
Love to you Susan ❤
I am so sorry to hear that your mom has passed. I am so very sorry for your loss. My own mom passed in 2017 at age 94. I loved her dearly-she was my best friend. Even now I think of something I need to tell her and reach for the phone …but I remember. I do believe that our moms take over the role of guardian angel when they pass and look over us with their never ending love. How could they not? Hugs and prayers for your peace and healing!
Dear Susan-
I don’t know how my message was incomplete- I apologize from my heart.
I wanted to let you know how sorry I was that you lost your beautiful mum.
I know how that is- you have my deepest condolences.
You were so close and she was and will always be your angel.
With love,
Kitty
Dear Susan,
I was so sorry to read that your mom has died. I think, that though our parents are no longer with us physically, they will always be a part of our spirits. I still see things in the garden, or in a shop[when I did shop] and think; “Mom would love that.” I can still hear her laugh, which came from the tips of her toes, and made us all laugh with her. It takes time, but you will soon be able speak of your mom, without tears, knowing that she will always be with you.
So sorry to hear about your mom’s going to heaven! 🤗
So did you discuss the day’s events with your mom while she was making dinner next to that cute stove?? I know I did that. Love that coffee cake! Hardly anyone makes it anymore. Fresh laundry 🧺 smells so good. Soon my birthday 🎂 will be here going into October 🍁and Indian Summer. A good time of the year to misplace one’s sweater! Changing seasons means changing quilts too!!
We had our last days together before Arnie’s deployment at the VaBeach. Someone’s parrot 🦜 got out and was flying south checking out beach 🏖 bags with the gulls!
Do you know what a rusting moon is?
🤗😚
Margot
I have read that the moon is rusting, is that it? Or is it a fall moon, the color of rust? Or… ???❤️
I think it is when the Corn Moon is turning into the orange Harvest Moon.
Drove all day to see my sister in Charlotte. Sisters are the closest thing to “HOME” & Mom. 🤗
OXOXox
Margot
Just got off the phone with my sister Shelly … almost an hour of solving the world’s problems… if they would only listen!😂
Lol…helping my sister by weeding while she works from home. Still so hot 🥵 in NC! I tried to tell her how I marked where I left off, but she didn’t understand…🙄
Oh I see, the 🌎 not your sister. Lol. I think it boils down to one thing, “Love thy neighbor”. 🙏
2000+ Year old advice…
OXOXox…the little one is for Jack from Fannie 😸
❌⭕️
Dear Susan, Just peeked in to see if your new blog message was up and YES! It has made my day, thank you. This has been a rough week, 15 years ago Sept 8th we lost our sweet mom to cancer. She raised 7 of us, and like your sweet mom, “You know the difference from right and wrong.” was heard among other tidbits. I miss her everyday, but she is still with us all in all our hearts.
We both love the music, just gets you tapping your foot, no matter what the mood and always to put a smile on your face.
So looking forward to receiving the Home for Christmas book; one is a Christmas gift and I am not sure I’ll be able to keep it a secret. It just might land on her table early to enjoy.
Have a blessed day!
❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
Dear Susan, I’m sorry for the loss of your mother. We’ll never forget her, either, because of your stories, and because of the person she helped influence you to be. Her influence lives on!
There are so many beautiful expressions of love for you in these comments and I am sending mine as well. You are the ultimate reflection of your Mother’s beauty and goodness. Peace be with you.
I have had a notice that my 2 books are on their way….and that will be a lovely day when they come. Also, my desk top calendar came last week or so and I just sneakily put it RIGHT under this year’s….which seems to be flying by faster and faster. I am so hoping the damPanic flies right out with it…forever.
The tablecloths on the line….are so pretty. I love to line dry my sheets…reminds me of my aunt’s iron bed I slept in as a girl..the sheets always smelled so good.
Thinking of you.
Oh, Susan, words can’t express how sorry I am to hear about your beloved mom. I adored reading all about her in your books and blog. What a wonderful gift she gave you and your brothers & sisters, that you have now given to us.
You are a dear. Hugs all around.
Jena
Dear Susan, it is with great sorrow that I read of your mother’s death. We knew her by your words and the wonderful person that you are. A mother is your Forever person and I am so sorry that you are missing her. She lives on in the beauty of the person that you are and for all of us she lives on in all that you are and all that share with us. My prayers are for you and for Joe and for all of your family.
Shedding a tear for your angel mother. I am so, so sorry for your loss. Sending a virtual hug.
Man was made for Joy & Woe
And when this we rightly know
Thro the World we safely go
Joy & Woe are woven fine
A Clothing for the soul divine
Under every grief & pine
Runs a joy with silken twine – William Blake
Thinking of you. Not sure if this excerpt can be posted, but you a beautiful person and surely a reflection of your Mother.
“…A Clothing for the soul divine . . .” SO beautiful!!! Thank you Helen.
My heart is with you sweet friend and my tears as well.
Lynette M.
Dear Susan,
Your dear mother……. ❤️
😘 I know.
Oh, my Dear, What a treasure Patricia Louise Smith Stewart…AKA Mom, was to you and to the future. All the strength, beauty and wisdom she fostered in You, Sue, is so very gently passing on. Strong women do cry, we all need those tears to nourish the rest of our time on this, our Earth. Thank you with all of my heart for sharing her, as we will with those we love. You are a link in that chain from woman to woman, an especially beautiful chain full of all that can make life worth living. Mucho Love, Pat’s Daughter,
Debbie on a Glorious New England Day
Oh yes, they do cry. But that’s what makes them strong.💖💖💖
Sue, I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. I so enjoyed your stories about her through the years. And the wonderful pictures. She still looked like a beautiful teenager even after she had a houseful of kids! You’ve told such heartwarming stories of your childhood that I am looking forward to receiving this book very much. Sending love. Xoxo
Hello Susan and Girlfriends greeting from smoky cave junction, OR!!!!!! we are currently at level 2 in the evacuation orders which means be ready to go at a moments’ notice so we are packed with an emergency bag of clothes, shower things, Ed’s medicine and important papers for the house and medical records for us and for the cats and we have their emergency bags packed. food, extra bowls for food and water, and an emergency kitty box with extra litter and a scooper. also have some toys packed for them and a scratch post and their snuggle beds. so far we are still at level 2 which is good, and hopefully they will put us down to level 1…. get ready. its thick and smoky outside, actually it is disgusting as it makes it hard to breathe and going outside with a bandana on to check the hen house and barnyard is no fun. i can just imagine the job of washing the curtains after the fire is out, PHEWY!!!! well some detergent and a cup of vinegar will clean them and get that smoke smell out of them.. YUK!!! the cats are bit upset as they can smell what is going on and hear it and all the sirens going by, makes them a bit jumpy and nervous. we are doing fine though, and right now i am heading out to water the front lawn and get myself some lunch… soup sounds good. you all have a great day, stay well and stay safe. hugs…. 😀 P.S. my sympathies on the loss of your mother. i lost my mom in 1996 to pancreatic cancer. she is still around and every now and then i know she is looking in on me. hugs to you Susan….. 🙂
Oh Pat, I hope the fire isn’t too close and better this morning. worried about you and your animals. I’m glad you’re prepared. Check in when you can. I’m so sorry!
Hello Susan, we are still here and doing fine. we are also still at level 2 which is okay, i have had plenty of time to organize the packed bags and what we need, but PHEWY it has been smoky and it smells something nasty. but we are here and dealing with it for now. best way… close the windows!!! its alot cooler now as the sun cannot get through the smoke and the ground stays cooler and it makes the fire lay flat which makes the fire easier for the fire fighters to fight. as of now they bulldozed a line along the edge of the fire near us and the town, about 18-20 miles long. neighbors who own bulldozers and tractors have been going out to help and neighbors have been donating foods to the fire station to help feed all the fire fighters here… we love our fire fighters. off go fix dinner meatloaf for tonight. wish us luck as there is still no containment on the fire. hugs to everyone and hugs to you Susan….. hugs… 😀
Peace, blessing and comfort to you dear Ms. Susan. May the loving memories of your momma surround you and comfort you when you find your heart wanting her love and care.
Dear Susan, So sorry you have joined the ranks of those of us who have lost our mothers. Reading through all the comments with tears streaming until I got to the poem by Henry Holland. Dried up, blew nose, carried on.
Thanks for the video of the beautiful laundry day! I’m in California and haven’t seen the sky in days!
My deepest condolences on your dear Mom’s passing. She is with my Mom in Heaven and they are talking about their wonderful children. Big hugs to you dear friend and Joe. Loved seeing furry Jack near you. My Louie is my shadow. I should call him Houdini because I see him fast asleep and snoring and I go off to do something and viola, I nearly trip over him because he is right behind me! I love cats! I am excited to know our Christmas book is on its way. We all “need a little Christmas, right this very minute…”. Thank you for all you do and all you are.
I’m so sorry to hear about your precious Mom. My ❤️hurts for you and your family. May God hold you close in His arms of love. My own Mom last day was the first day of autumn. When I see the beautiful autumn leaves I want to catch the prettiest one and hold next to my ❤️and then put it in my memory scrap book. I love that you wrote the book Home For Christmas and remembering all your family’s wonderful memories. Dearest love ❤️ Jan
🍁🍂🍁🍂🍁🍂
I am so sorry for the loss of your mum! A big hug for you both.🙏👼💝
Miss my mum still after 16 years.
All the lucky winners congratulations!
Take care
Greetings, Truus from Holland
Wishing I was at Martha’s Vineyard enjoying the last days of summer. Here in California it’s not looking so good. We are confined indoors with everything shut. The skies are grey and smoky. Oh how I miss the simple things in life. Your blog keeps me cheerful and looking forward for fall and winter.
I pray every day for you. I’m so upset with what the west coast is enduring. I grew up out there, and understand we have forest fires, but this is ridiculous. On top of a Pandemic. Sending all my love to you and yours.💝
So glad I decided to read all these wonderful comments. It was time well spent. Seeing so many familiar names, absorbing this outpouring of love, drinking many cups of tea. So, thank you to All the Girlfriends.
Debbie in Maine
Hello Sweet Susan,
My heart breaks for you over the loss of your sweet Momma…..but we know she is in a better place than what we have here on Earth. You are a true inspiration to all us Girlfriends- we hurt when you hurt and we laugh with you and we love to see Joe and Jack and your walks and all of the hard work you put in to the books and calendars and all the other things, just an added bonus that we can be a part of. I am anxiously awaiting my Christmas book, and now i need to go order some of your new cards. The candy cane bookmark would probably sell rather well if you sold those in a pack of 12 or so too. So we could purchase and stick inside each card. Thinking of you and i have a package that i have had to mail you for a couple weeks….i bought this and when i got it, i just thought of you and so i am sending it on as soon as i can get in to the post office. I hope you will enjoy it. Love and big hugs sent your way.
Have a wonderful day-
Kathy from Kentucky
There’s a secret surprise on the back of the candy cane. 😘❌⭕️
Dear Susan,
I cried to read you have lost your dear Mom – I know that hole in your heart. I also cried when I read the description for the ad for your new book. I cannot wait to receive mine! By the way, I found you through your ad in Teatime Magazine. I think it was Teatime or one of their sister publications. I have been following your blog ever since and enjoy every single one. I will be at the tea party with one of your beautiful mugs – I will just have to decide which one!
Take care, dear one.
Love and Blessings,
Jeannie
Susan, I lost my mom in Jan. And so I know how you are feeling right now. It’s sad to see them go but they lived such long amazing lives and with things as crazy as they are right now. I’m glad my mom isn’t having to deal with it. She would have been 93 in April, was as sharp as a tack but bladder cancer took her down. So you have my deepest sympathy and a big hug.
On a sweeter note, thank you for the breeze. I know it was cool and refreshing and your tablecloths smelled heavenly. It’s still hot sticky and miserable here in NC but sometime hopefully soon…….. I don’t live where I can hang out laundry anymore and miss the smell of fresh sheets and clothes. Listening to and watching your video brought it back in the nicest way. Isn’t wonderful how our mind can take us places we can’t physically go! Blessings to you and as always thanks for your precious emails!
Dear Susan,
I’m so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I have loved the way that you have written about her life in your books and your blog. I feel as though I know her and her generous spirit. I believe that you are carrying on her legacy proudly. I am sending you hugs and prayers for comfort during this difficult time.
Susan, so sorry to hear about your mom. I lost my dad in May. I was very close to my dad and miss him everyday. It’s amazing the little things that will cause tears to flow. As a believer, I know that I will see my dad again one day and so the separation is only temporary. It’s hard on my mom. They had almost 73 years of married life together. It’s hard because my mom lives across the country from us and it just isn’t easy to go see her again. I’m glad my sister and her family live near her. Treasure your memories, hold them close to your heart.
Sending you the biggest hugs. I am so sorry to hear of your Mom. And Words can be oh so trite. You are a ray of sunlight for many. Bless you.
Thank you to your beautiful Mother for having 8 beautiful children and teaching you all the most important lessons in life. Don’t tell the other 7, but I do have a favorite.
xoxoxo
michele
I KNEW it!😊😘
GOD’S PEACE AND HOPE AS THE YEAR UNFOLDS TOWARD THE END MAY YOU KNOW HOW GRATEFUL I AM FOR THIS NEWSLETTER, YOU AND YOUR BOOKS, BUT MOST OF ALL FOR THE INSPIRATION I FEEL EVERY TIME I LOOKED AT ANYTHING YOU HAVE PAINTED!
Lovely as usual.
Dear Sue,
What a beautiful post, it leaves me speechless and feeling softly surrounded with with the peace of September. I miss my Mother every day and I know it is the same for you, please know that all the wonderful memories will in time smooth the sharp edges of your sorrow. We are so lucky to have had them.
Love to you and Joe,
Lllian O.
Dear Susan, I’m so very sorry that you lost your Mom. It sounds like she was a wonderful person who gave you a loving start in your creative life. Please know that you are surrounded with caring thoughts and virtual hugs – they’re not as good as the real thing, but they’re what we’ve got for now. ♥️♥️♥️
We have a frost warning in northern Maine tonight and it’s getting dark at 7 pm. I’m starting to light the candles at dusk. May we all have a better Autumn, refreshed by these cool breezes, beautiful colors and bittersweet sounds of crickets. Wishing you peace.
Susan, I am so sorry for the loss of your mom! I am so happy you were able to spend so much time with her as the end came near, as I am sure she was very grateful. My mom passed in 2015, in the spring, when all the spring trees were in full bloom. It was her favorite time. Perfect, God! My brother, only 60 years old, my only sibling, passed two years later. Perfect again. He lived with my mom his entire life, and they took care of each other as the years went on. He finally had found love in the last 3 years of his life, again it was perfect timing, Divine intervention.
Thank you for your lovely post, Susan. May all of your memories comfort and sustain you.
Looking forward to the time together with you and others, on the 20th!
I’m so very sorry to hear about the loss of your mom, Susan. I’m not as eloquent as many here, but my heart goes out to you & I pray for comfort for you in this year of “firsts.” Those times when you have something funny or special to share & you go to call her & remember she’s not there- but I hope you talk to her anyway. Her life & love impacted you & thousands through you. No better legacy than that. Love & hugs to you.
So sorry to hear about your momma. I lost mine almost 5 years ago. Not a day goes by that I don’t wish to talk to her, especially now during this crazy time. I’m now the voice of wisdom in our family. I was told that life without her would get better, but would never be the same. I’ve found that to be true.
Sending understanding comfort to you and pray that your wonderful memories lift you up and give you peace.