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 . . . 💝
Susan, I dearly love you: your books, your calendars, dishes (esp. the cups} and your blogs! Unfortunately, I am slow to the draw re: the Santa Christmas cup! Hopefully I can get one somewhere! Or maybe, you will have a new design for next year! I have purchased at least five of the cups and have broken (lost) two of them! I have glued them back together, but they have to stay on the shelf as I’m afraid hot tea may make the glue come apart! I plan to be at the virtual Tea on Oct.18! Your Christmas book – I bought one for me, and will use the second one from the tea event for a dear friend of mine. Hugs from Deep East TX, Jan McL
I treasure my Susan Branch cups and hope (fingers crossed) that they don’t break. I was just able to purchase a Red Letter Day mug from Titcomb’s. I couldn’t believe my good luck. In the past, I’ve found sold out mugs at The Apple Farm in San Luis Obispo and at a kitchen shop in Brewster, Mass.(I forget the name of the shop). Kelli and Sherri supplied me with the names of sources that I might try. Such kindness on their part.
My, what a beautiful blog. This is my first time to enjoy the beautiful pictures and observations. Your blog was sent to me by my cousin and I am so grateful. I too love Christmas books and holidays and my wonderful family. Looking forward for many more editions of your blog!!! Thanks for sharing.
I especially love your photos of the sky this month; thank you for sharing those!
I have never understood your “Rabbit, rabbit” so I finally googled it (what did we do to satisfy our curiosity before google???) Now I know! But I missed it for October and will have to depend on all of you who did repeat “Rabbit, rabbit!”
Dear Susan, your website and your blog bring so much joy into my heart. I have always loved baskets and quilts. I love books about baskets and quilts. I think I read every Jennifer Cheverini book. My favorite book is yours, A Fine Romance. I love to knit and I think reading about you knitting your way across an ocean made my heart feel warm. We live in a strange world right now and we need people like you to bring us peace. Have a blessed day. love, Barbara
Love the skies. Love your posts. And both the quilt and the vintage Xmas book are lovely.
I say it every time – but truly, from the heart Susan – You Are Such A Joy!!
Love and big hugs,
Christine
Fall is my favorite time of year. Love the colors in your photos. Our leaves are starting to turn here in Kansas. Warm, fuzzy feelings for all.
Ah! It’s so much fun to give stuff away! Our Master Gardener group had an Online Fall Garden Fest with four of the loveliest speakers! At the end of each talk we awarded giveaways to a randomly-drawn number that was one of the attendees. It was exciting! And a fun thing to do.
So thank you for your giveaways! They do provide excitement and a fun thought of “I could be a winner!” (I ALWAYS think I’m going to win! ha!)
Dear Susan,
I was an only child, so I adore reading about big family Christmases! Your book is a new favorite. I’ve created our own traditions with my two (now grown) children and grandson. It’s never too late!
I would love a chance to own a copy of your vintage book. I have most of the book from my own childhood, many from different seasons. Once on Christmas would be a very happy addition!
I also love the quilt! The pattern looks a bit familiar, but I don’t know what it is called. How wonderful it would be to curl up under that quilt with a good book!
Thank you for everything you do; you brighten my days, and I appreciate it.
Thank you for entering my name into your drawing. I love being a homebody although I have to work outside my home. I get melancholy after reading your posts. I love homemaking…. Thank you Susan and I am so sorry for your loss. I am a hospice nurse.
Thank you Jacklyn for leaving your home to help others in the most trying time of life. You are an angel on earth. ❤️🥰 God bless.
0 beautiful blog Susan! Thank you for your uplifting messages and beautiful pictures! The world needs you…
Oh Susan!! What a miraculous thing to give us…. The Sky!!!!! I am so excited to have something to give you… LAUGHTER! You need to watch the Saturday Night Live skit on the debate last tuesday:) It is good to laugh, even as we continue to pray for everybody in the world who is sick and wish them healthy breaths and a speedy recovery. Love to all
Love, love, love you and your blog. You are so inspiring.
Loving all the post. They make a nice get away where the problems of the world disappear for a bit! Love this new giveaway! Maybe I’ll be lucky this time a win that cherished little book to display on a small lovely shelf! We’ll see!!!
It always feels good to read your blog, every word!!
“He loved October. Had always loved it. There was something sad and beautiful about it – the ending and the beginning of things.”
-Jacqueline Woodson, If You come Softly
I love your blog! I just received my copy of Home for Christmas and my 2021 calendar – early Christmas presents from my family since they know how much I love your items ! Thank you so much for all you do.
Hello Dear Susan,
Thank you for the fun post. I loved the cricket singing in the kitchen. I have one singing in the basement.
I am sending out your VOTE pumpkin post cards in the mail today. 🙂 Do Our Duty! And I love your postcards, what a great idea.
Lots of Love, Carla
Hi Susan! I just made a glorious cup of hot cinnamon apple tea and came in to clean out my email box and surprise-there you are!! Wonder of wonders.. My senses were overwhelmed by all your pictures. I must make it to your side of the country someday. Thanks for the lovely treat.
Beautiful October! So gorgeous – even in Texas
I was so excited to see an Instagram post and this blog post! The words you write always make my day. I am loving the new Christmas book. Got mine a few weeks ago and it will always have a place in my home every Christmas. Thank you for continuing to write for us, whether that be a book or a blog post. You make the world a better place.
Thanks for the sky photos, Susan – a virtual way for us to leave our houses, which is needed about now. Ahhh yes, Fall – isn’t it the BEST season! No Trick or Treating, but this Gramma is planning a good old fashion Halloween Party for my 3 grandkids (masked and distanced, of course)! Gramma’s costume? RBG!
Thank you Ms. Susan for all of the lovely sky photos! My mother used to say that, as a child upon seeing the sunset, I would shout out, “Look Mommy! The pink! The pink!” I still shout out “The pink!” when I see the sunset, but it is now to my daughter. She once asked me why it was pink and I told her because God knew it was our favorite color. Thank you for reminding of that memory today.
Thanks for writing “Home For Christmas” it took me straight back to Christmas when I was a kid, when we didn’t have everything but we sure thought we did. Your book brought a tear to my eyes and joy to my heart and it reminded me that we don’t need things to make us happy and I look forward to reading it to my grandkids.
I received your little Christmas book and read it cover to cover and cried for the sweet memories it brought to mind of my own family on Christmas days past , things forgotten. Thank you for bringing them to mind. And we love you too dear Susan for making our days brighter even during this “dampanic” . Keep doing what you do and sharing with us!!
Your PUMPKINS over your door🧡🧡🧡🎃🎃🎃
I am sure all of the children (and those of us who are STILL young at heart) look for them to signal that beautiful fall🍂 is upon them🍁
So much to be said for tradition and ❤❤❤’s like yours.
Sending much love and all that is good from the other side of the US💌📬💟
October days… leafing through your 1st edition (2004) Autumn book and marking the recipes I want to make this Fall. For sure I’ll buy a large chicken and make a pot of broth and perhaps the French Chicken soup. So many recipes to choose from!🎃🍁
Thanks much… BTW, we added a slice of crisp bacon to Joe’s Old-Fashioned. Double yum!!
I made the Harvest Stew… oh my yummmm!!
We have a smudge pot we use a lot in the summer and a fire pit we use when the weather starts to cool down. Such a cozy feeling to sit outside with it burning. Now just waiting for the days to stay cool so we can start to have a wood fire. Love the pictures!
Yes , yes, when you feel all is lost…look up! Today the sky is the most beautiful bluebird blue. I am finishing my desk work with the treat of reading your blog post! I save it for the end, as a carrot to keep me plugging along. Now finished , I am going to go out side with a cup of hot cider and appreciate it’s beauty! Your so wonderful at reminding us of the things we can look to,to hold on to, during these tumultuous times. It’s all around us, we just need a little nudge and a little long distance hug from a girlfriend. Thank you.
Kim
SUSAN!
I just love Autumn in New England! And I love when you share these wonderful photos!
I live quilts! I would love to add this to my bedroom for snuggling.
Hugs!!!!!!
Linda in PA
Susan, What a fabulous post! I love seeing all your gorgeous photos & what you have been up to! Thank you for all your creative ideas & energy you share with all of us.
I love quilts, autumn and turkeys. Thanks so much for your wonderful blog. My daughter just got that fire pit. She alwayscdress as a witch on Halloween and has had several black cats the newest one Apollo just was on a local morning show next to the fire pit.
Martha’s Vineyard sunsets are stunning. So many lovely fall thoughts in this post, Susan. Thank you for inspiring my day.
Amazing Sky photos! Truly magical and always changing. I remember one time being very worried about something and said.. “I could sure use a triple rainbow right about now…” I went outside and there it was … a very perfect triple rainbow! Made my heart sing!
Always happy to see news from you dear Susan.
Love that you will be in England in 2022!!
I love, love, love fall and your pictures just reminded me why!
Your blog posts bring my heart joy. My BFF of 50 years and I have enjoyed your books since the earliest days, and I so appreciate that your spirit is here online whenever mine is lagging. You are a dear one. <3
Thank you Susan for your charming October post! Always a bright spot in my day. I just read “Home for Christmas” and loved it. I have fond memories of Lois Lenski books from my childhood many years ago. Love the connection with your book. Happy Fall!!
Dear Susan, thank you so much for lifting my heart with your blog posts, every time does the trick, no matter how I feel. The skimo legend came to me in a day I should be celebrating my mom’s birthday, who left so young, I miss her every day like it was yesterday she left us here on Earth and the idea of the starts being her light shinning through made me happy Thank you for all you do, love to you and Joe, stay healthy and happy! <3
A lovely post to make my day brighter. Thank you Susan for your photos, your kind words, and the hope that you give. Things will get better!
Gratitude is synonymous with YOU!! Each time you bring us joy and an appreciation for every little gift nature gives to us. Loved the pictures, memories and sentiments….it brought me to a peaceful reflection. 🥰
I loved reading your blog post! So refreshing. Loved the little Christmas book. I, too, have a collections of Christmas books I put out every year. I try to find one special one each year, preferably old copies. Your photos are lovely, too. And the quilt! Oh my goodness! It brought back memories of the quilts my grandmother used to make. I have a couple that are very special to me.
Susan, I absolutely LOVED your sky photos! Isn’t God good to give us so much beauty in our world? Also loved your fall photos, but then the QUILT! Love that, too, and here’s my little ole comment for an entry! 💕
I enjoy your blogs so much. October is my favorite month of the year (and not just because it’s my birthday month)! I just received your Autumn book and have read it through twice so far! I loved it so much I bought one for my cousin who is also a fan. Thank you for your beautiful thoughts and words that are such an inspiration to so many!
Thanks Susan for your lovely post, always look forward to it, to take me away for a while! The quilt is beautiful, what a gift and the book, love old books! Enjoy your fire pit!
October- it can feel magical. Often, your blog brings that same feeling. Thanks again for the “fairy-tale” feeling. Cora
Wow seeing Once on Christmas and Lois Lenski’s illustrations brought me back to being a child. I used to check out her books from the library even though the era was much earlier than my youth (1980s). I think I was and am naturally drawn to the simpler old-fashioned time.
The directions for a home-made life really resonated with me, because they are exactly the way I try to live to help get through this difficult time. I loved the Titicomb’s event so much, because we had just returned from a week at a little house in Katama the day before; it felt surreal to be connected with you and your lovely kitchen! I brought your Summer book with me on the trip and re-read it as summer seemed to turn to fall in the middle of our mid-September Vineyard week.
Love to you!! Your post are so inspiring. I too have a love for all things England, especially the landscapes and gardens. I always look forward to your awesome quotes and pictures.
Whenever I receive notice of a new blog post, I make myself a cup of tea and then I get comfy on the couch so I can savor each and every word of the blog. Thank you, Susan, for sharing your gift of inspiration with us! You are a ray of sunshine in this often gloomy world. 🙂
Hi Susan,
I am so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I know that she will always
be with you in spirit and in memory. A mother’s heart can inspire such
love and wisdom to carry us through life.
I would love to win the vintage quilt. It is a perfect fit for my bed.
It would bring joy and cheer to my bedroom. I would be equally happy to
win the book. I have a perfect spot for it by all of my Susan Branch books.
Thanks for you inspiration. Love, love, love that sky above.
Good morning Susan, girlfriends. what a lovely October/Fall morning. no smoke in the sky and blue sky up above. the leaves are turning colors, and the acorns are coming down by the tons. the squirrels are extremely busy getting what they can and in between chowing down on them. we even heard the screech of an owl early this morning, i have to rise at 4 a.m. each morning to get his coffee and breakfast going and pack his lunch. but to hear an owl screech was a treat, just hope our barn owl doesn’t get too unhappy because another owl was in his turf. yes we have a barn owl, ever since we rebuilt the barn years ago, an owl moved in and we have enjoyed his residency ever since. he does help keep the mice down and under control, and he is a wonder to watch as he goes out each evening to hunt on our property or the surrounding area. never got around to naming him, but Ed calls him Barney for short… whatever he seems to like his name. Susan is your little cricket still in the kitchen??? or did Jack get him??? we found a cricket by our wood stove and he seems quite at home there, and we still have him, the gremlin brothers have not gotten him yet.. (gremlin brothers.. socks and mittens our grey tuxedo cats) they hear him but cannot find him. and i am not telling… 🙂 !!!!! tonight a feast for the dinner table pot roast with onions and carrots, baked potatoes and mixed vegetables on the side. tomorrow soup and sausage. the weather has finally cooled down enough to let me do some serious cooking again. my kitchen is going to smell heavenly tonight. well off to go do laundry and check on the barnyard crowd. also mulch down the leaves and sweep off the porch. you all have a great day today, stay well, stay safe and stay happy. Happy Fall. hugs…. 😀
love hearing an owl. we have them occasionally. we had a baby one year. we called him Baby Huey. he would hoot all night long. eventually he moved away and we missed him. sometimes we have pairs calling back and forth from the trees.
Hi Susan,
Thank you thank you thank you for taking the time to send your newsletters. I can’t say enough how I look forward to them and to your thoughts. Always full of sunshine and happiness you are!
So much inspiration in your posts – the sky photos are just wonderful! I love the quilt and the thought of snuggling up under it with a hot drink and a good book. The fire pit is great – we got one a few years ago and have enjoyed it immensely in our little corner of the woods. Thanks for all that you share with us!
Hello – I was feeling that fall decorations might not be for me this year because all things fall are on hold, but then I realized that even if they are only enjoyed by me and Harry, then are worth the effort. What a lifting of our spirits, we had when I was done. It was then that I realized that my decorations whispered to me the memories of past falls. Joyful whispers that swelled inside my heart and filled me with joy! Once my daughter said to me that you should always decorate for yourself! Wise words from my girl. I even passed these words to a friend. Sometimes we need to learn lessons again and again. 🎃💕 enjoy your fall dear Susan and thank you for spreading joy!
Susan, your posts always leave me with so much to think about. The illustrations and beautiful text are like ruffles and lace in a petticoat… they just make it all perfect! Thanks for all of it.
I was never much of a picture taker but admire people who are- and I always enjoy looking at your thematic photo galleries! You must have available subjects from A to Z 🙂 Drooling over the opportunity to win that beautiful quilt or the wonderful old Christmas book. I read yours the day it arrived- SO many memories!!
Warm Autumn days colored with oranges, golds and pinkish yellows remain vivid in my memories of our New England life. Moving south has not diminished my love of all the history and quaintness that surrounded us for years. Thank you for touching my soul with your precious pictures and stories.
Hi Susan! I often feel so “bubble-wrapped,” nowadays in my own world, and then poof! Another blog post from you in my inbox that bursts forth so much beauty, inspiration, LOVE.
Love Love the sky pics– I take so many of those, too! My husband is very observant and is always saying, “Did you see that?” as we drive around. And I almost always say “no” because I am looking up at the sky/CLOUDS/sun/stars/moon! 🙂
Thanks for your kind give-a-aways— F U N!!
Oh Susan, another post of wonderful photos! Reading your blog is one of my favorite ways to armchair travel. 🙂
Love that quilt. It’s timeless and fresh and cozy, all at once.
Thank you for such a beautiful post. We CAN have happiness in our own little homes! A perfect time to get cozy with fall already here where I live! Little lit lamps as we eat dinner, candles (I lite one every morning to have w/my coffee), bon fires, white lights strung…It has really slowed us down and made the very simple things seem like a huge feast! All the best to you and your family. Thank you for all the simple beauty that you post.
Fall the most amazing season of all!
I look forward to your creations in all forms.
Dear Susan,
Greetings from the beautiful Upper Peninsula of Michigan! I have been following your blog for quite awhile. I find myself looking for it a couple of weeks after the previous one. Maybe you could write weekly?!? It is therapy for me.Thank you so much! As I write this I have not hugged my mother since March 13th- the next day they shut down our local nursing home. I was her lifeline. I’m sure many people are in my position – we are losing valuable time with our loved ones. My heart hurts for your loss- I’m thinking about you.
Have you ever been to the UP? People who live here are called “Yoopers”:)
We have our ocean – Lake Superior: No Salt, No Sharks. Maybe a a trip here some day? – it’s definitely God’s Country!
Thank You for EVERYTHING you do!
XXOO Nancy
Guess I missed the cut-off because my reply is not posted! Love you too. You have such a generous spirit. Thank you
Susan, what beautiful pictures! Makes me want to go on a long vacation..maybe someday in the near future we all will get to travel again. In the mean time I’m thinking I I will buy a firepit too. It will be like having a little vacation in my own backyard!! Love yours..its so cute!!😀
Your Christmas book brought tears to my eyes and so many great memories. Thank you. 💗
Such a joy-filled post! And what could be better than a Harvest Moon to begin October, a birthday (mine!) to celebrate & a Blue Moon to usher us into Thanksgiving? Your photos & quotes, musica & books are just what we need these days ♥ Loving it all!
Thank you, Susan for your generosity and inspiration. xoxo mari
Hi Susan! I’m so sorry about your mom. That’s such a hard time in a woman’s life. I love Louis Linsky, I love your new book, and I hope I win the drawing! Thank you.
Horror of horrors! I decided to empty my spam folder just now, & this most lovely blog ever was hiding there. Shame, shame, on I don’t know who. As usual though, in the always perfect timing of my favorite, one & only Good Shepherd, this was the EXACT moment I most needed to read it. So, mucho thanks Susan, for a truly beeutiful post. You truly outdid yourself, says grateful me.
You are a lot like that quilt … bringing warmth, beauty and coziness to a world that needs those very qualities. Thank you! 🧡
Woweeee, yesterday there were a bit over 1,000 comments. Today a bit over 1,500. We’re in Good Company, aren’t we? Will take awhile for me to read all, but I try to do so, as I’ve learned so much and get inspiration from all of you.
This October is a bit different from all but one since we have been living in our house here on the little bay. I’m usually focused on community activities, having folks over for a meal or cocktails, canning and freezing veggies and fruit, systematically cleaning, sorting things to be given to various shelters and of course a bit of weeding. No garden this year, so only the apples to do. I’ve been glued to the windows watching all the birds on the various feeders. Now the migrants from a bit north of us are tanking up on the feeders. Getting to see some birds we used to have as regulars. They have moved their breeding areas to higher latitudes due to the warming and loss of habitat. In just the 33 years we’ve been coming to Maine, we’ve seen stunning losses. Of course we also read about it and attend talks by wildlife biologists, so it isn’t just us.
I can’t change it back the way it was, but I Can try to be positive and enjoy having more time to just Look. If you sit very still, any time of the year, for about 10 minutes, your eyes begin to See little movements. The longer you sit still, more of the critters will begin to go about the business of preparing for the winter….or for any season.
Sitting out early Sunday morning, I looked down at my feet. A sunbeam lit up one single lady bug on a green clover leaf. And those things were peeking through a couple of brown oak leaves. I took pictures.
Tom and I have been taking scads of pictures of the night sky while Mars is so close to us, and the full moon.
We have exactly the same fire pit you ordered. I snagged it on sale a few years ago at Home Depot. We’ve loved it, however haven’t been able to use it this summer. The ongoing drought precluded that. Even though we’ve had a few rain drops, we are still in a drought. What happened out West scared the you-know-what out of me. We always have to get a burn permit to burn the season’s blow-downs….the bon fire is a highlight for Mr. Tom. Maybe we’ll get a good Nor’easter with lots of rain, so that he can do that. Don’t want one that is too harsh, but one that is just right!!! 😉
Thank you for this lovely October Surprise.
Mucho Love,
Debbie in Maine….Yippee
“A homemade happy life! ” What a wonderful phrase – full of possibilities! I loved your sky photos. Do try and come back to England. Where I live we have beautiful sea skies you would love.
I love reading your blog, but I shouldn’t do it at work! I like to linger over it like a fine beer! The pictures you posted are beautiful, especially the last one! That quilt is beautiful, and I congratulate the winner in advance. You will be gifted with a wonderful heirloom! Thanks, Susan, for being the blessing that you always are! Happy Autumn!
Hi Susan,
I have loved your blog for years, but have found it especially comforting during this stressful year. Thank you so much for being my virtual friend and comforter. I wish I could give the same back to you!
Helen
Hi Susan,
I have loved your blog for years, and have found it especially helpful during this stressful year. Thank you for being my virtual friend and comforter. I wish I could give some of that back to you.
Helen
Happy Halloween, Susan. I will be spending Halloween this year with my sisters, celebrating my youngest sister’s 60th birthday. The four of us plan to have a wicked good time! Can’t wait!
Holey Moley. Lots of comments lots of entries. Pick mine.
Thanks for the wonderful words. They are always uplifting for the soul. Wishing you and yor family many holiday blessings. Judy from ky
Dear Susan, thank you for another wonderful post, so love your photographs. I wanted to add words of comfort with regard to your Mom going home to Jesus a while back, but was unable. You see, it’s been a year since my dear Mother left this earth after 94 years, and still find it a bit difficult. What I can say, is time and remembering happy memories soften the loss. As you well know, it’s so hard to loose your best friend and teacher of all things domestic. My best to you. Happy October! Blessings, Karen
Hello Susan,
I’m having a moment of gratitude as I write this. You see, I was feeling guilty about my empty bird feeders, and didn’t want to dig out a mask and drive to my nearby big box store. But I did. They were all out of the usual sunflower chips I buy there, so I silently griped to myself and put two bags in the cart anyway. As I was standing in line to check out, the woman in front of me graciously let me go ahead of her because she had many items, and I had just a few. I thanked her, and she added, “Besides, you feed birds too.” It felt SO GOOD to experience an act of kindness in this world that I told her, “You’ve restored my faith in humanity.” Isn’t it amazing how easy it is to brighten someone else’s day?! When I got home, I stopped myself, and looked at the gorgeous blue (and rare wildfire smoke-free) sky, felt thankful for the sandwich on my plate and the clean water in my glass, and acknowledged my two dogs purposefully when they greeted me with their wet, slobbery noses. It all was a moment of hope and encouragement and a reminder that there will always be good in this world, despite what we are bombarded with on the news every day. Kindness and light and life are very much still around! 🙂
Beautiful! It’s the little things in life!💞
All of your work is just so lovely. If I were to win this cute, cute quilt I would give it to my mother. LOVE!!! ❤️
With all the disheartening news that abounds, I love it when I receive a notification that your blog is up. What a breath of fresh air! Love the pictures of the sky and that adorable fire pit. Happy October!
My heart is happy when I read your words. Thank you!
Hi Susan, your post was wonderful, as usual. I loved all of the sky photos. The colors and locations are a feast for the eyes. I received my Christmas book and read it cover to cover after unwrapping it. I found that I am your echo. We share the same birth year. While you were in Southern California enjoying 1956 with your family, I was in Northern California in 1956 doing the same with mine. All of the toys and festivities were mirror image to yours……except for the number siblings. I have eight cousins though. I did well until the last pages and then totally lost it. Both my parents are gone now too. My Mom’s name was (is) Dorothy Thompson so your little Christmas book is something I will try to find. Thank you again for your post. As always your writing is comforting and a treasure.
XOXO
Pam
Got my Christmas book, so wonderful. Finally finished the trilogy you wrote and am astounded how alike we are other than you have talent! Will write you a letter. Looking very Fallish in Indiana.
I’m so grateful for your blogs, they always get me moving on updating decorations for each month, seeing all your magic and your lovely collections. I seemed to remember you writing about Collections in one of your cookbooks? Yes, in your 1990 ‘Christmas’from the Heart of the Home. You suggested to ‘Start a collection of your own, then everyone will know what you want for Christmas!’ I took your suggestion and 30 years later I need you to write about how to stop everyone from adding to your collections! Yet, even though I tell everyone NO MORE, I love the new additions. I collect old Christmas books, so your offer caught my eye! I’d love to break my request of NO MORE, but after all no one can have too many books, right?
Thanks dear Susan for a spot of sunshine in this world of dampanic — I love that term.. Hang in there and I like the idea of burning the 2020 calendar….enjoy that firepit! Hugs
Hi Susan,
I have just received the new Christmas book. It brought tears to my eyes. What a beautiful tribute to your parents and siblings. The book also brought back memories of Christmas pasts for me. A very special time.
I am sorry about the passing of your Mom. I believe your Mom’s birthday was Feb 27. If so, that is the same day as my Mom’s birthday.
Thank you again for the sunshine and joy you bring into our lives esp. in this crazy time we are living.
Yes, you are right … Thank you for the kind words. xoxo
I love your blog. I love Autumn. The two together: perfect. Thanks, Susan, fir alwsys reminding us what’s important. Kindness and Love
Blessings
Dear Susan, It’s almost impossible for me not to feel better after reading your posts. You take me away to a happy place full of dreams of the kind of life I can only imagine. Your house, your kitchen, even your cat all make me feel so warm and happy. Yet, oddly enough, I never feel jealous of the things you have. Somehow, as an author, you have retained a wonderful sense of humility. Ever since I purchased my first Susan Branch calendar in 1993 at a bookstore in Vermont, you have been my “escape from reality” author. In this year of The Great Dampanic, you have been a much-needed source of hope and a reminder that all is good in the world. Thank you for pouring your heart into your work the way you do. You were clearly given a gift and we are the ones who get to enjoy it. Now, go build a fire in that lovely new firepit and roast some marshmallows! Nothing beats a fall fire, especially when it’s started during daylight and allowed to flame late into the evening. Enjoy xoxo Janet
Thank you Janet ~ xoxoxo
Dear Susan,
It’s almost impossible for me not to feel better after reading your posts. You take me away to a happy place full of dreams of the kind of life I can only imagine. Your house, your kitchen, even your cat all make me feel so warm and happy. Yet, oddly enough, I never feel jealous of the things you have. Somehow, as an author, you have retained a wonderful sense of humility. Ever since I purchased my first Susan Branch calendar in 1993 at a bookstore in Vermont, you have been my “escape from reality” author. In this year of The Great Dampanic, you have been a much-needed source of hope and a reminder that all is good in the world. Thank you for pouring your heart into your work the way you do. You were clearly given a gift and we are the ones who get to enjoy it. Now, go build a fire in that lovely new firepit and roast some marshmallows! Nothing beats a fall fire, especially when it’s started during daylight and allowed to flame late into the evening.
Enjoy,
~Janet
Hi Susan,
You always brighten my mood. Thanks for sharing your pictures and making my day happier. Can’t wait to see my name as a winner.
Happy Autumn.
Anita
Feel like we are “sky” sisters — I’m always amazed by the beautiful sunrises and sunsets here at home in metro-Detroit or when traveling. Whenever I notice one I call out to my husband or text my Mom and say, “Look at the sky!!”. That homemade quilt is so very joyful!! Just purchased your 2021 desk blotter calendar – ready to move on from 2020 …
Dear, dear Susan,
How I’ve enjoyed every single blog you’ve sent to us “girls”friends. You are suc a delightful addition to our lives. PLEASE keep up the good, fun, delicious work and know that we all love you to pieces!
Another lovely “Susan Branch Blog”- my favorite thing to see in my email! I am so glad I bought your Christmas book- I had to read it in batches because I couldn’t stop crying- happy tears of course! What a happy quilt- I’d love to win it or the Christmas inspiration book! xoxo
I’m going to dawdle here in your words and October. (Dawdle is my new favorite word!)
Thank you for your continued meaningful inspiration throughout the years!
Happy Fall Susan, I just finsihed reading your blog and as usual it was wonderful. I think you touched on Autumn and Christmas my favorite time of the year. I just hope with this “damnpandemic” our holidays won’t be changed too much. I recently joined our church quilters, so I would love to win the quilt and show them.. I have your little Merry Christmas Book but haven’t read it yet. On my to do list. Thank you for cheering me up with your words. Just what I needed
2022 is the year that I am planning to go to England! It will be my 40th birthday year so two friends and I (who will ALSO turn 40 that year) are like, LET’S GO!!!!!!!
DO IT, DO IT, DO IT!!!💞
My dream was always to visit the English countryside. Must be the Masterpiece Theater influence. Thanks to you, I have the pleasure of living that dream, enjoying the beauty through your words and photographs. Looking forward to your next trip.
Such beautiful photos! Enjoy your new fire pit! Great post as usual, you never disappoint. Enjoy the hygge Fall weather. Thank you!