Gotta say Rabbit-Rabbit first, because that’s a whole October of good luck for all of us which we will need if we ever hope to get through 2020 in one piece! Then must pass out the luv-lee MUSICA because it is in charge of lifting hearts ~ but, really my very first words to you this morning are
Yes, I do, so very much And you probably know why if you read the comments in my last blog post. “I hope the angels know what they 
have . . .” wrote our Girlfriend Annie in Sydney, Australia about my mom.😢 Dear, kind, loving words AND thoughts (because you knew I knew) from ALL of you, meant the world to me. Teary-eyed, I read every wonderful word. Then I went to my art table and painted that ⬆️ because I was thinking it the whole time I was reading. Big, tall, skinny, and watercolory, it had to fit on the page. This connection between us was what I felt even when writing my first book, and look at this, it happened!👏👏👏 So, a little gift for you, a small token of my great affection, I give you, The Sky . . 
Just like I label some of my photos by color, I have a huge number labeled “The Sky.” You can see why . . .
It’s one thing that follows us wherever we go and gifts us with works of art like no other. The orange on the water! Dark at the top, dark at the bottom, both moving toward the center and the light. And all free, a gift from God.
In this photo we’re driving across England. We pulled over and got out of the car for a deep breath of this soul-expanding open space that smelled of grass and freedom.
Delicate, soft, flittery, blue and lavender and peach … a calm sky that says Forever, adding Hope, Truth, and Beauty.
And this! Where the clouds are chasing the sun into the sea… a reminder that at some amazing moments in our lives, there is no better place ON EARTH for us to be . . .
Stormy skies at sea . . . a parting of the clouds, where the sea and the sky are like a bowl . . . and we were the toy boat floating in it… I love looking at these pictures and thinking about being here again! Lots of foreverness out in the Atlantic . . . you feel small and so so so so lucky.
This is moonrise over our harbor . . . rocking boats . . . lapping water . . . cry of gulls . . . smell of saltwater . . .
Streaks of white contrails made by water vapor from airplanes, turn to ice that slashes through this Scottish sky. (There’s a little checked-upon Morning Science for you!)
Green and pleasant land . . .
On our way to Boston, Storm and sunset made beautiful music together . . .
Sun peeks through the clouds . . . the last warm rays touching the water . . .
The Shenandoah is a wonderful addition to our harbor . . . see how the light touches on everything white and makes it glow? That’s what happens here sometimes as the sun goes down, especially wonderful against that dark sky.
Doris Day’s voice soars in my mind, 🎵 You sigh, a song begins, you speak and I hear violins, it’s magic . . .🎶
Pink halo over Stonehenge under the same sky since it was built 2500 years before the birth of Christ. And yes, we are a part of this.
This sky was right outside our kitchen door … Yes, Toto, in our very own back yard.
We pulled up to this rock wall for me to take a photo of this rainbow over Galway Bay in Ireland . . .
and snow flowers
The discussion here, driving from Colorado to Utah, was, “Look at that sky! Yikes! Is this the right way? Should we turn around?”
And just down at our own beach where we walk every day, water and sky, all pinky blue, if you were painting this scene you would also use blue when you painted the sand . . .
We get lots of gorgeous skies from our room with a view when we’re crossing the country by train . . . here at a Kansas crossroads . . . look at all those choices!
Rich colors of purple and orange, mixed with the wind and sound of the waves are beautiful together in this Menemsha sky.
Lambs tails . . . look at them all running away!
Sometimes the sunset in our rear view mirror grabs my attention . . . I never want to miss anything!
I almost missed this picture of the sun, it almost slipped away! We were just getting on the ferry to home . . . I had to take it right through the rigging, but I GOT it!👏 And now, to
Oh yes, and last night was the Harvest Moon, our sky, filled with moon which woke me up this morning when I caught it trying to break into our bedroom through the cracks in the curtains!
We can feel the summer going, but we are stretching it out as long as we can. The flaming candles in the “bug buckets” make it cozy. But time is passing, September is gone, we’re already wrapping ourselves in blankets when we sit out late … so we just did the MOST wonderful thing. I’m so excited!!! We finally broke down and ordered one of these:
Yes, we did. A fire pit! Look at it! Isn’t it cute? I can’t wait! It’s supposed to be delivered October 6th. More stars! More sky! Now that we finally did it, I don’t know what took us so long. We celebrated 31 years in our house last month ~ It deserves a little something new and hygge for good behavior.💞 
It comes with a screen and a poker … all for around $200, I think it will be TOTALLY worth it. Fire pits come in all sizes, 
shapes, and styles; HERE’S the one we chose. See the ring around the top? I hope that’s for our feet! I think I might light a fire on December 31🎉, bundle up, and take my 2020 calendar outside. I see myself scanning the sky for stars on the last night of the year, staring into the flames of a cozy wood fire, burrowing under my blanket, saying prayers to go up in the crackling sparks and smoke, as I toss the pages of 2020 into the fire and BURN IT UP, while praying for a peaceful, healthy, boring 2021 filled with hugs.💞 So MUCH to look forward to, holidays and decorating and cold weather and blue skies for all our West Coast Girlfriends . . . I just turned in the art for the cover of 2022! This is the year we think we’ll get to go back to England!
But of course that doesn’t stop us from finding magic in the here and now . . . it’s in us, and around us, no waiting required!
Our woods are turning gold, leaves dance like fairies in the trees, magic abounds this time of year! We dawdle here every day.
Cool wind and the smell of leaf mulch, Joe and I walk to the sea, do our Morning Science, and solve all the world’s problem . . . 
So exciting out there watching everything change, so much FREE stuff!🍂
Better than any florist ~ we bring it all home . . .
For the ultimate in a homemade happy life, don’t forget your health darling Girlfriends . . . make sure you are MOVING. Too 
many things can go wrong when we don’t! And our energy levels get so much better if we DO. This dampanic is making me fat ~ we got a little too good at lockdown around here (I mean what’s a donut in times of trouble, or two, or a bag of potato chips to soothe the spinning head? Tater-Tots and ice cream and peanut butter on toast to tranquilize the bewildered soul) ~ when the pants got uncomfortable, I decided to do something about it … will tell you in the next post!
I’m so glad you’re all getting your books! I’m receiving lots of cute photos like this one from our Girlfriend Cynthia. Looks like Santa’s traveling around the world early this year! For our UK Girlfriends, Amazon UK has the book now, and I’m hearing many nice things from our Girlfriends on Goodreads and Facebook. Thank you all so much … I love writing books for you!💞
And look at this photo I borrowed from Facebook posted by Karen K. . . she took a picture of our Titcombs virtual Tea Party! She’s in my kitchen and I’m in hers! Love Karen’s red!♥️🌹💄❗️📕🍎
Look at my homemade set up! Proving, no, I do not know what I am doing. But it all worked out, it was so much fun! I know not 
everyone was able to make it, so I’m going to do two more mask-free Sunday Teas this month! The first one will be via Zoom on Sunday, October 18, at 4 pm EST for Bookends Bookstore in Ridgewood, NJ … you can sign up HERE. Yes, there will be signed books and door prizes (Puzzles!)! The very next Sunday, October 25th, we’ll be hosted by the wonderful King’s English Bookshop in Salt Lake City, Utah, for a Crowdcast event …. you can register HERE. It’s a great way to get out and about without leaving home! And where else can Girlfriends from Hawaii, England, Texas, and Australia all meet at the same time?
I know you’re probably not coming to every one of these events, but I do want to thank you for helping me support these lovely Independent Bookstores who need us all the time, but especially during these days of the Panic! These bookstores are a tradition, they’ve been serving communities 30 and 40 years! I’ve visited and fallen in love with them in real life … I can’t wait to go back someday in PERSON! Do you know that for every $100 you spend at an independently owned business, $68 will stay in the community? Keeping our small-business economy alive is part of what we need to do. I do love seeing the patriotism of dampanic as we get through this thing together, sea to shining sea.❤️
See what I have? A cricket singing in the kitchen.🎵 Yesterday, on the same day as full moon and rabbit-rabbit, making October a red-letter month already!
Is this quilt cute or is this quilt cute? Do you love it? Well, so 
do I! But I think I will love it even more if it somehow ends up getting a new home! Maybe yours! What do you think of that? A new giveaway as a special thank you and extra connection for all we are to each other ~ all aired-out and ready to go! I found it in an antique store many years ago. I don’t know the name of the pattern, and it’s not signed, but it was obviously made by someone with a joyful heart!💖 You know what to do, leave a little comment so you’ll be entered in the drawing.💝
Yes, we do . . . so maybe even something more? Make my life a little happier? 🎄 Why NOT?
So if you were at the Titcombs Tea Party event, or have had a chance to read Home for Christmas, you know my book was partly inspired by this little book called Once on Christmas, published in 1938, which I found a long time ago in a used bookstore and mostly used each year at Christmas. It looked adorable on the coffee table in front of the fire. But it gained new meaning the afternoon I read it out loud to my two young nieces.
It’s a sweet little memory of Christmas at the turn of the century…❤️
… illustrated with charming line drawings by Lois Lenski.
A book made extra special because it’s out of print, and the vintage ones have become very hard to find.
But, and you know what I’m going to say! We did it! We found one. And now, drum roll, this little book will be going off to one of you!💖 At the bottom of this post you’ll see a whole bunch of tiny words in grey letters, and at the end, the word “comment.” That’s what you click on to leave one. I love reading them, and I often comment on your comments! But something tells me this might be a busy giveaway, please forgive me if I don’t get to comment . . . I’ll be reading though!❤️
We just found out they don’t want the kids to Trick-or-Treat here on the island this year. I was hoping, masks seemed so perfect for this time of year. But no. But that doesn’t mean we can’t decorate and be festive and lift the hearts of others with some pumpkins on the porch!
Or in the garden . . .
They make so many cute ones these days!🤣
They look good on the fridge . . .
And over the front door . . .
Or on the kitchen table . . .
Because it’s that time of year, and no dampanic can tell us what to do with our pumpkins!
I’ll tell you about the new fire pit in the next post, with pictures! I have a new recipe for you too, all kinds of good things, but I’ve gone on long enough. Remember to leave a comment if you want to be entered in the drawing. No matter HOW many comments we get, you’ll still have a better chance of winning than by playing the Lottery! Plus, no numbers, and no money!💝
Love forever, your pal for life . . . 💖 
I’ll leave you with THIS . . . 💝
Hello Susan,
I received your sweet book and read it the same evening! I had a similar upbringing in Southern California (born and raised) and so many of your descriptions ring true ♥️
Of all the beautiful illustrations, when I turned the page and saw blue chip stamps 😭 I burst into tears! We collected those and pasted them carefully into the books, sharing in the delight of picking out treasure at the redemption store. Your book reminded me of my own mother, who could make Christmas so magical from very little.
Like most of your followers I collect quilts and old books and tea cups and so crossing fingers and toes 🥰
I enjoy reading your post’s! I am transported through your pictures. Please keep writing and never stop!
Dear Susan,
I loved your beautiful skies. Would love to have your weather, as CA is sizzling. Wasn’t that autumn moon just magical last night. I’m looking forward to your next virtual meeting. Cheryl will love your new Christmas book. (Me too!)
Take care, be safe!
Got my Autumn book and your Christmas story, gifts for myself for coping with this year. Autumn is my breakfast read, Christmas is for under the tree, so don’t tell me. . .
Sounds like you and Joe are taking good care of yourselves and Jack. Have a lovely Halloween.
Lovely blog as usual. It is sad that kids won’t be trick or treating this year. Do you know it’s very rare it to be a full moon on October 31st? But of course it will be this year. What else are you going to throw at us 2020?
Love the beautiful quilt! And the design of the fire pit. Just might have to finally buy one. Thanks for the wonderful letter.
Love you Susan. Pick us! Peg is my Mom.
Great post to start off this wonderful month! I don’t remember where I first heard/saw this quote, but I like to use it: October is my favorite color! But then again, I am definitely feeling the ‘need [for] a little Christmas’ too! I am certainly savoring my new Home for Christmas book! 🙂 Blessings, much!
Susan,
Your generous spirit is such an example to all. Thank-you from the bottom of my heart for all you are and say and do. What a precious gift you are in this strange time of grieving for so many of us. Your sky pics bring such peace to my soul as I scan them. I and my children call clouds (the lambs tails ones) “popcorn clouds”. Sometimes those types of clouds even form a checker board pattern, but we haven’t seen those for years. Jack’s silhouette, such a cutie! Happy autumn to you and Joe. I have an inkling you’re going to be wondering why you waited so long to have a fire pit. We love ours, but too hot yet to use it here, plus the fire restrictions make it impossible anyway. God bless all girlfriends! —dezi from AZ. 🎃🎃
Greetings from Wisconsin, where our leaves are beautiful also and dancing in the wind. I just finished re-reading your original Autumn book. Now in the middle of your newest one, Home for Christmas…trying to savor each page. I love it! Reminds my of my own childhood Christmases. Thank you for writing it!
Forgot to say, Dorothy Thompson was a very famous journalist from the 1920’s into the ’60’s. Woman of the Year, the film with Katherine Hepburn, and, later, the musical of the same name staring Lauren Bacall as a character that is based on her. Check out Wikipedia for the whole scoop.
Would love to have that little book with Lois Lenski’s sweet illustrations.
I remember the first time I found tour blog. I sat up in the wee hours of the night exploring each category of your blog, loving each story and carefully examining each photo. I loved that you and I enjoyed much of the same things In life, and in our homes. I felt I had a kindred spirit, a new friend. After many years I am still drawn to your posts, your news, your photos. Have a wonderful Fall Season. I can’t believe we will soon be celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas!
Glad you’re well and enjoying moving into a new season! As always thanks for your generosity!! Autumn….such a glorious time!
The sunsets and cloudy skies were so beautiful! All of your pictures are gorgeous. That is such a lovely quilt and I love the pattern. I can’t wait to get a copy of your Christmas book. Thank you for all your uplifting words!!
Such a delight to get another “letter” from you Susan! And what a beautiful quilt.. some person is going to be really lucky when you pick their name…I hope it’s me!!
I enjoy your autumn posts even though it is spring down here.
There is nothing sweeter than a rescued quilt. It makes me sad to think of them lonely in a store instead of snuggled around someone. Thank you for sharing your beautiful sky pictures, too.
Love your Blog, pictures and your Fall decorations! Going to set down this evening with your Autumn book like I do each year and read it with a cup of tea! It reminds me of all the wonderful things to do in The Autumn! Thank you for blessing us with your gift pf creativeness! Love you Susan Branch!
Such a lovely post! I would be thrilled to win anything- my days need brightening. Love to you❤️
I was feeling blue, but thanks to your beautiful post, I am better. So nice to find this in my inbox.
As always, your post is so good for the soul, especially during these crazy times we’re living in. I often go back and look at each photo again and lose my self in the calmness. Thank you, Susan, for continuing to inspire us. I look forward to another Sunday Tea!
So sorry to hear about your mom. Peace be with you….Thanks for all the great pics and ideas – so cheerful for us all.
Hi to Susan and Joe—Saw an autumn quote in the recent issue of Victoria that corresponds to your beautiful post of fall beauty:
” October gave a party! The leaves by hundreds came—the chestnuts, oaks,
and maples, and leaves of every name.” George Cooper
How fun that the author compared autumn to a party with all the leaves in attendance. Who doesn’t love a party? And this one comes completely decorated! So enjoyed your stunning sky photos, too, and they reminded me of your sweet friend Ellie from the Martha’s Vineyard book who enjoyed the clouds so much. Love to you both from Bev
I almost feel as if I knew your mom, reading about her in your beautiful book,
A Fairy Tale Girl. I’m so sorry for your loss. You post is lovely – thank you for reminding us to be grateful for the sky and the joys of nature. Autumn has also come to Utah with all its colors and scents. I will miss having you at King’s English in person – it was such a treat to meet you and Joe during your last stopover. Much love to you – Susie
October is my favorite month. My daughter and I wil make and
Distribute Boo bags to neighbors and friends to
Brighten the dark nights of haunted 2020.
I hope you know what a light you are in all of our lives- always, but even more so in these difficult times. Thank you, sweet friend.
Whenever I see “Susan Branch” in my email inbox, I am thrilled. There is nothing else like your blog posts. They bring delight and joy to my soul, especially these last six months. They are a reminder that there is still hope and life out there. Your blogs are an escape to a magical place. I am always reminded that the simple things in life are the best things. You always bring that out so beautifully. Thank you for doing that. Years ago, a friend introduced me to you, and I have now in turn introduced a number of friends to you. The latest friend I shared you with actually spent her summers when she was growing up at her grandparents’ home on Cape Cod. She was so excited to read your blog posts. Thanks again for bringing simplicty and beauty to my world.
A quilt is a beautiful gift for someone. I love quilts, make quilts and sometimes give quilts. They are special. Made one in memory of my deceased husband, he loved them too. They are good for napping, sitting, cozy behind a couch and fun to look at on a wall. Everyone should have a quilt sometime in their life.
I could not agree more!💝
I enjoyed the virtual tea so much!! Thank you for sharing your time with us! Loved being able to sit at your kitchen table with you and hear the inspiration behind the new book (which I ADORE). Thank Joe for popping in to say “hi” that afternoon. It took me back to meeting both of you in Grand Rapids, Michigan many years ago. Thank you for always providing joy and a happy place to come during this dampanic. You are a treasure. ❤️
It seems like every time I start to lose my positive outlook and start feeling down I find a new blog from you—an instant pick-me-up! During the pandemic I finished sewing 2 quilts for 2 of my granddaughters—oh I would love to have one for myself!!! So put me in that drawing!! But even if I don’t win, you have given me something even better—a joy-filled afternoon!!
Dear Susan,
Somehow I must not have read to the end of your previous blog posting where you shared the news that your beloved mother had passed away. I am so sorry for your loss but know that your mom lives through you each day and you honor her memory in all you do. My mom died 15 yrs ago and I think of her often and sometimes catch myself thinking I need to call her an tell her about some news – or wish she had lived long enough to see her grand daughter marry and become a mom. But such is life. How lucky you are to still have siblings to help carry her memory and bring her into your world when you are together reminiscing.
In my earlier post yesterday I forgot to include this: Our church book group is currently reading a delightful book which I think you’d enjoy as it is all about the author’s rediscovery of England when he returns for a “walkabout” after a 23 yr absence. He is an American and had lived there for 20 years before returning to the States. It is so humorous I have found it helpful to chase away the dismal reactions to our current news of the day and instead lose myself traipsing around hill and dale and reading about the local “scene” in England. The title is “Notes from a Small Island”, by Bill Bryson. He has written several books, including one about his adventures walking the Appalachian Trail, “A Walk in the Woods”, also highly recommended. Anyway I thought since we are both anglophiles you’d probably enjoy the “Island” book.
Love Tea Time at Titcombs but I’m saving my Christmas book read for the Christmas season. For now it’s time to enjoy a few fun fall events-like Apple Cider Donuts! I’m so glad to have received my 2021 calendar and can’t wait to explore it!
Aww, Jack . . . a portrait of a truly good boy.
Thank you for a lovely blog post! It helped me feel connected! We are putting our pumpkins out and, a bonus, I am teaching and learning about the different kind of pumpkins and squash, which is a fun thing to do this time of the year! Stay healthy and spunky and keep your eye on Mother Nature. She is dramatic, as you know, this time of year!
Kathy from Wisconsin
Susan … that quilt looks like a warm hug which is something I am really missing during these last few months! Health & happiness to you! 🍁🍂🍁
I’m with you about burning the pages of the 2020 calendar. This has been a rough year. Looking forward to better times!
Dear Susan, I just saw your tweet announcing the arrival of your new firepit…..congratulations! I think you will enjoy it. We have a gas one and we love it. I think you will find they give off a great deal of warmth, even in the cold weather. We enjoy using ours especially when we host an annual German Christmas Market themed gathering in early December with special family and friends gathered around the fire enjoying hot mulled wine and grilled bratwurst.
My mother carried your books in her shop in Colorado and introduced you to me many years ago with your first book. Your writing and art has always made me feel content and magnifies the goodness in life, even in these troubled times. That is truly magic.
Thank you! My heart is encouraged… your sky pictures were grand! Glad you possibly may go back to England …would love to myself but will do it vicariously with you.
Oh what a lovely post and what a generous kind give-away! count me in for a chance! Thank you for always showing us such beauty. I pray you have comfort as we go into this season of Autumn and then Winter (and Christmas!) God bless you dear one and all those you love!
I received my book today–you can tell they really treasure books the way it was wrapped in the brown paper–I appreciate that!
I have a special favor to ask–so many of my friends are so anxious now due to the political situation and other ways we’ve been battered this year–could you possibly write your uplifting posts? maybe one a week ? from now until after the election when things will hopefully ease up some??
~Susan~
Beautiful pictures of the sky !! God loves color for sure !!
You will definitely enjoy your fire pit , and the S’mores yummy !
Cute picture of Jack looking out the window at the pumpkins, we had to put our Goldie girl to sleep a week ago , she was such a sweet kitty . 🙁
Happy October !! xoxox
Paula
Indiana
Love hearing from you! So many beautiful photos. Anxious to read your new book!
As a quilter, I would love to give your quilt a new home. It’s welcome to come and live with the ones my grandma made many, many, MANY years ago.
Also wanted to say, at Christmas, my son(now 34 years old) and I always get out some of the Christmas books I read to him as a child. We sit and read and talk about the story, the illustrations, the things he remembered when reading them years ago, and we laugh about the comments he made to me back then. For a very short time each year, he’s my “little boy” again and we both look forward to finding those short moments to share.
I love all of the sky pictures and the Eskimo Legend…very comforting. We just returned from a road trip to New York state that had been postponed so long but am happy to say that we did what needed to be done and got to experience some flannel quilt weather and leaves changing by the day. It was glorious and the skies were bluer than blue. October will be a good month for us all….Yes, I am sure of it. Much love to you, Susan Branch.
Thank you, Susan, for helping me breathe one long deep breath for each photograph and verse. I’m ordering 2 copies of your Christmas book tomorrow — one for a dear friend, and one for me.
Oh Susan, that was a lovely trip to heaven. Can see your Mom blowing kisses to you. So sad for our Moms to leave us. Bless your heart. Love all the pictures! Have been taking a lot of cloud pics lately. The quilt is adorable. Thank you for all your giveaways, so sweet treasures. HAPPIEST FALL from the hills of Idaho.
Love to you, sweet Susan! You bring such joy and kindness to so many people! We love you, too! 💜
Hello Susan,
My younger sister and I were devout followers of yours for many years. Somehow, we lost touch with you and your beautiful work. I have rekindled my connection to you as I attended the Zoom meeting you had via the bookstore last Sunday. When I saw your email in my box, I was so glad that I did! Thank you for the wonderful things you share with us–they are much needed during these trying times. I hope all will be well with you and all those you love.
The quilt is gorgeous. You don’t see many like that here in So. California!
Thank you so for the wonderful post! the pictures were wonderful and I just received your book and calendars for 2021. My 94 year old mom is reading your book about your move to the Island and loves it- another kindred spirit!
Blessings and love as you said goodbye to your Mother.
And please say hello to yours for me!💞
Thank you for the beautiful pictures!
A year ago we were on the island.
What a wonderful place!
Susan, your Blogs are a place to escape the craziness all around us. You give us a glimpse of a kinder, gentler and simpler life. Thank you.
Once again, your blog was sooooo cozy!!!! Makes everything seem ok!!! Hope you enjoy your new fire pit during this chilly time of year!!! Happy October!!
Dearest Susan,
I feel you are such a life asserting role model for me. You have brought me through years long depression first through your blog & then your books. I’ve gifted a few others with your books & calendars & they have been cheered as well. I’m listening to “Miss Potter” soundtrack as I write this and think of you and how much you have helped so many of us through tough as well as joyful times.♥️
Thank you so very much,
Lucy
😘😘😘😘😘, Lucy!
I can’t wait to attend your next tea party!
Thank you!
I LOVE quilts, and how special it would be to have one from you! I LOVE your artwork, blog, and your sweet soul. Thank you for sharing your goodness.
Once again, your blog post was soooo cozy!!! It always makes me feel like everything is going to be ok!😊
I hope you enjoy your new fire pit🔥🌟these chilly nights!! Happy October!🎃
Oh how this fourth grade teacher loves your blog. I discovered your books way back when I was just married and had no idea how to make a house a home – but I learned from you. Thank you for your blog, and your books and for brining joy and happiness to us all. Happy fall!
Love your post – especially about ordering your new fire pit, and adding the 2020 calendar
To it on December 31st. Great idea! And I would be bundled up in that beautiful quilt!!
Thanks. I shared with my S-I-L, and she agrees!!
Your sky photos gave me such a feeling of freedom and peace. There are so many different colors and patterns up there, and all of them lovely or fascinating. Thank you for sharing!
I love your Christmas book, too. I bought one for my sister as a preorder for Christmas in July! We both love you.
LOVED your Christmas book… it took me to another time and place and brought back so many memories of my own while I looked at the smokey California skies. It lifted me up. So thankful my home and family are safe and that we only have smoke to endure- praying for those who have lost so much…
As always “you brighten my day” ❤️
Who needs more decorating than a spooky kitty staring out the window!
Susan – thanks for the giveaway and for never failing to inspire! I appreciate this space so much.
Hi Susan,
Wish we lived next door to each other!!! We like so, so many of the same things. I love the sky and the clouds are so beautiful. God gives us so much natural beauty to enjoy! Each flower is so delicate and beautiful….and I love hanging my clothes out on the line! Just took my sheets off the line before…they are going to smell so wonderful tonight! And we are enjoying our first fire of the season tonight in our fireplace! Yay!! I love fall. And we love the English countryside too. We have been there twice and dream of going back again after this pandemic!!Thanks so much for your blog. I check it everyday to see if you have written something! Love Ya!
Hi Susan,
As always your wonderful blog, lifts my spirits, especially with the political stuff, that went on this past week. Sometimes, I feel our democracy is holding on, by a thread.
Have the house & inside decorated like fall. Simply, but nice. Love this time of year.
The colors on the leaves of the trees, are beautifully displayed, to enjoy.
You & Joe, have a wonderful October. Like your stars & moon fire pit, too!
A faithful fan, Donna
Love your term, “damnpanic,” perfect, perfect! Love the gorgeous sky photos, so uplifting! Looking forward to seeing photos of your new fire pit, those are so much fun, and the stars and moons are really decorative. Stay healthy and safe! Cheers!
thank-you for your bright outlook-we do have many things to be grateful for. I am looking forward to a new puppy in two weeks. Puppy breath and a wagging tail-what more could I ask for?
Nothing is as touching as a kitty looking out the window! It is a wholly different view of our world through glowing eyes!
Thank you for the lovely views of the sky! They are as beautiful as October is!
Hello Susan – thank you again for a lovely post with heart-warming pictures and ideas. It is so needed during these crazy times. I am a huge book lover/collector, and would love to add either or both of these Christmas books to my home library. I have several already written by Lois Lenski, and of course, you!
That quilt is so joyful! Always glad to peek into your world!
Thank you Susan for your uplifting photos of the sky. I am especially drawn to the English skies! Also, enjoyed your photos of fall and pumpkins!
Happy October! Live reading your posts- always cheer me up and make me want to go make my home more cozier and festive! What a darling book!
Your posts are always so uplifting…..so much inspiration, beauty and happy thoughts!
I can’t wait to get your new book and calendars! I save them from year to year but 2020… I don’t know. No, I will save it too as a reminder that together, with help from our friends, we got through the year and even had some special moments. Thank you for the beauty you remind us is all around us. And, it’s free!
It is Saturday evening and what a wonderful way to end the day and the week ~ getting to read your October post. Love the art work, love the quotes, love the photos and just love to hear you talk about your world. Your thoughts and words give a person peace and a sense of good in this world. Thank you for all of that!
What a fun and inspiring blog to find! A girlfriend gifted me a book and I will be gifting her the gratitude one for 44 years of friendship! Thanks for sharing all your art, pics, quotes, books and care for your girlfriends!
October is my favorite month of the year. I quite forget how very much I love it until it is upon us once more and I realize how welcome it is.
As always, your blog in my inbox is most welcome and provides the chance to immerse myself in all things that make me smile and sigh. I save it for a quiet time when I can be uninterrupted to savor each word, quote, painting and photo. This time, the picture from Galway Bay was especially poignant…we had a return trip to Ireland planned for May 2020, but you can guess what happened there… Anyway, Happy October to you, Susan, and all other kindred spirits!
I love everything Susan Branch….the books, the calendars, and especially the mugs. It’s October and I am having my coffee, my hot tea, my hot cider…what ever in that adorable jack o lantern mug. My good friend and I give them to each other when a present is needed. Please enter me in the drawing for the book.
Susan, your blog lightened my hear immeasurably!!! Just moved from Idaho to Oregon to live near the ocean!!! So many stresses in moving during this time, but you have given me such joy. Thanks for sharing with all of us. We are so grateful!!! Donna
Hi Susan – you and Joe have brought the Autumn/Halloween spirit to your home and street, I have always loved the pumpkins in place over your front door – very cool and very vintage. The book and quilt are real treasures and you have a generous heart to pass on for someone else to enjoy. As always the content of your blog so brings us – your many friends – into the beautiful Fall Season. And then I have my new Santa Book to enjoy a little later – just going thru the pages, I can certainly compare to my own childhood (only with 1 brother) – love all of you sitting on the curb waiting for your Grandmother!! Very meaningful for today’s families…
The quilt is lovely and will chase the autumn chill away. Beautiful inspiration for those of us that have never made a quilt. The Christmas book is an added delight in your special giveaway. Thank you for thinking of us!
Your thoughts and photos lift my spirits in these difficult days. Thank you for your words of inspiration and love.
always love reading your words! Love all things autumn and all your photos too!
Beautiful photos, Susan! Thanks so much for again bringing a sense of calm and hope into this day. Certainly hope you know how much your words delight each and every time you post!
Hi, Susan. The little Lois Linski drawings brought me back to my childhood. I loved going to the library and checking out the tiny books about the Small family with her illustrations. How did you ever find a copy to give away? I would dearly love to find an old book called Clementine in a used book store. It was probably published in the 30’s or early 40’s. Sadly, I don’t know the author’s name. I read it when I was 11 or 12 years old and thought it was so funny!
I enjoyed the tea party at Titcombs and was so happy to read Home for Christmas. Your memories are quite similar to mine. Loved it!💞
Happy Autumn!🎃🎃
Nancy (from Bakersfield)
Hi Susan! The skies are just spectacular! One of the great things living or staying on an island is the sunsets and sunrises! You have captured so many! There is something about that openness and the sky and sea — truly heavenly!! Just love it. Lifts the soul and spirits! Thank you! You’ve captured it! And what a surprise at the end!! Lois Lenski! Who would have thought! I have this wonderful book, 146 delightful pages, all illustrated by Lois Lenski! Her line drawings are so great! They capture another era. . .the one we were lucky enough to grow up in!! I’ll try to send the photo here. If not, I’ll send it later another way. I haven’t forgotten to write you a DM. It’s been crazy! Our home health agency for Gene was landed another agency by the parent company, out of state, and they are in total chaos. Our nurse was promoted (we loved her! She was full of common sense, and in the middle of helping with a massive back infection on Gene). Now we have a sweet girl but she’s new; so lots of phone calls and tracking things down. I have to stay focused for now. But thankfully I’ve learned a lot, and this, too, shall pass! I’ll get back on track soon. Anyway, this is a breath of fresh air! Just love this time of year. Our trees are just getting ready to turn, and mornings are crisp! Loved the Hunter Moon. Thanks for the time out!! Jane xoxo
When I read that you were coming to Salt Lake City to The Kings English bookstore I jumped for joy! I met you and Joe several years ago when you last came to the TKE. You were both so gracious and kind and made each one of us waiting in line to meet you feel special. Even though you will only be 5 miles away I won’t be able to see you in person this time but I did sign up to attend virtually. I will be so happy knowing that you are here in our city and that I can help support one of the most wonderful independent bookstores. (I knew there was a reason I hadn’t purchased your new book before now. Something told me to wait just a little longer…..:)
I won’t be there in person this time, Marilyn, it’s all virtual, I’ll be in my kitchen! A wonderful way to do it during the dam panic! See you soon!👏
What gorgeous skies! I remember one time at sunset when we were living near Calais (Maine). We were driving along a tree-lined road near the bay that makes its way out to the ocean, and as we went up, up, up a hill, we turned a corner and suddenly it seemed as though the entire sky was on fire. We had never seen such a burst of color – the reds, oranges, peaches, yellows…we attempted a photo with our phone but it just could not capture what our eyes were seeing.
What a wonder!
I will keep finger’s and toes crossed for good luck with your drawing, and in the meantime keep decorating our home for Halloween. Our kids are disappointed about trick-or-treating, but we are still determined to make October festive and special.
Thanks, as always, for these uplifting posts of yours!
Dear Susan…..thank you for always lifting our spirits . We were fortunate to have a home to return to after evacuating during the furious fire situation in our Calif. mountains. So we have an especially thankful heart this season. “Home For Christmas”….. Takes on a whole NEW meaning. With deep gratitude, Carolyn 😘🤗😌
The quilt is beautiful and made with love I’m sure. The antique Christmas book is a special treat with illustrator Lois Lenski. Thank you, Susan, for another wonderful giveaway!
Thank you Susan Dear once again for your lovely post. I read it and then get to go back, look over your photos and enjoy your drawings in quiet times.
Oh Susan…thank you-thank you-thank you for this post. It was soooo what I needed about now. The photos were such a wonderful reminder to see the beauty and sweetness that is all around us and free to boot.
I love the fire pit and decided to get one myself though it’s a smaller size-perfect (plus it even has a grill…how awesome is that?).
I have to say I’m sooo in love with that quilt. Lucky person whoever wins it (me?). And that adorable little Christmas book so speaks to a simpler time. Sigh…
I hope everyone is healthy and well in body, mind & spirt in these crazy times.
Love and light…always,
~Elizabeth in CA
P.S. I gained 17 #’s (!) from March to July and finally said “ok-enough already!” and have, I’m pleased to say, lost 11 #’s. Still a few to go. So I’m looking forward to hearing your version of The COVID #s.
The best is yet to come. Your blog makes me remember that. Thank you Susan.
Oh, lovely Christmas book! What a sweet joy that looks to be!
Happy October Susan,
Loved your wonderful post. It is 1:40 in the morning and I am wide awake. So I decided to read your post to give me comfort. It did!!! Thank you. 🙏🏻💕
I bought two new fall cookie cutters recently , I am going to make your ginger bread cookie recipe this week. Can’t wait.
Love to you Joe and Jack.
One of your girlfriends Wendy 🌕🍁🍂
Oh my goodness! So many lovely thoughts and words and pictures and fantastic giveaways to boot! I can’t decide what I like most about this post. Quilts, books and the moon and stars! Pumpkins and Jack and the most perfect firepit ever. Burning my 2020 calendar on New Year’s Eve is probably the best way to deal with the sadness and uncertainty of this year. Count me in! Thank you for sharing your life with us. It’s so wonderful to be a part of your girlfriends group. XXX Dee
Hi Susan, I always enjoy your blog posts!!! Please enter me in your wonderful give-aways( you are very generous)!!! Love and hugs from Linda in Boise, Idaho!!!