HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

All my love for the happiest New Year ever, safe, healthy and filled with love, keeping all fireworks to this page only! Enjoy! And of course, MUSICA . . . sing it at midnight, and never forget our blessings, or stop praying for peace on earth, goodwill toward all . . . we are the world, and we are love . . .

In case you stopped by, I just wanted to say hello ~ It’s going to be a wonderful year! XOXOXOXO

This entry was posted in Blog and tagged . Bookmark the permalink.

164 Responses to HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

  1. Mary Ann in Mid-Missouri says:

    Happy New Year! I predict 2023 will be a good year!

  2. Krissie says:

    Wishing you all a Happy New Year filled with love and happiness!
    It’s twenty to four in the afternoon and the light is fading, the fire
    is burning brightly and I can’t wait to be in my nightie 🙂
    Sending love from Yorkshire xxx

  3. Debbie Boerger says:

    Happy New Year to you as well, you Dear Lady, you.
    The Lovely Tom went down to the Shrimp Docks yesterday and got 5 pounds of very large shrimp. I spent most of the afternoon making Gumbo with smoked andouillie sausage. Just the roux takes at least 30 minutes. All is in the big pot in the fridge, waiting for me to add the shrimp, which must be peeled and cleaned first. Been a few years since I made it, so we’ll probably eat too much, then stagger upstairs to bed. We’ll miss the Ball Drop, as we usually do nowadays. If the fireworks wake us, we’ll give each other a peck and go right back to sleep.
    Everyone have a Safe, Healthy NYE, and wish with all our collective might for an end to the World’s nightmare in Ukraine.
    Mucho Grande Love,
    Debbie in Tampa

  4. Elizabeth says:

    Happy New Year, Susan!!

  5. Jen Pen says:

    Happy New Year’s to all the girlfriends!🎉❤️

  6. Happy New Year to you as well!
    Thank you for this quick virtual hug of a blog post. Seeing that Charles Lamb post reminds me that it’s almost time for my annual re-listen to the best audio book, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. I think you saw the movie, right? If you haven’t listened to the audio book, you and Joe will LOVE it. It’s read by about 7 different actors, and they each bring the correspondences of the book to life in such a powerful and beautiful way. I listen to it every January because the book starts in the bleak winter after WWII, and it’s a wonderful way to start the new year.

    Yesterday my friend and I took an art yarn spinning class at Saori Santa Cruz, this magical, outdoor fiber studio in the redwoods of Felton, Ca and it was a beautiful way to end the year. You can see it on my IG page.
    Thank you for continuing to speak truth to power with love and compassion. I so appreciate all you do for all of us, and I hope that 2023 will bring you lots of time to continue writing your Distilled Genius part 2, and *maybe* Enchanted?! Nudge, nudge, wink, wink!

    • sbranch says:

      I just decided to take some time off! Got the calendars done and home from all our travels, and I want to join a knitting club and clean my house, so that’s what I’m doing for now! It’s winter, the quiet time, the “season of genius,” and I’m going to fill up my creative cup with dreams, books, and fires, and moving little vases around, starching and ironing dresser scarves and curtains! Joe and I went OUT to lunch yesterday, and I had a, wait for it, Cosmopolitan! The wait person asked what kind of vodka😳, I said I didn’t know anything about vodka so it probably doesn’t matter! It was yummy! I understand your enjoyment of the yarn spinning class in the redwoods!!! Pefection! 😃

  7. Patricia in NC says:

    Susan,
    Happy New Year to you and your your loved ones! Wishing us all a healthy, peaceful and wonderful 2023.

  8. Kim Young says:

    Happy New Year to you! 2023!
    New year….new ideas on how to be simply cozy,create magic and beauty, smile and be kind, look up,less scrolling, help my community more! Not resolutions, just goals.
    Some days your a life coach and don’t know it.Thank you.
    And JOE, thank you for sharing Susan so generously.
    Blessed with a full restaurant tonight, but the magic is really afterwards, when we’re tired,feel people were happy,when our feet are up with a glass of bubbly toasting the old and new year. Cheers!
    Much love,
    Kim and Mike too!

  9. PAM BAIR says:

    To you and Joe and Jack, and all of us ….a HAPPY 2023!

  10. Peggy Willoughby says:

    A small surprise, a mini post, heartfelt wishes! Thank you.
    Happy New Year, Susan, Joe, Jack.

  11. Nicoline says:

    Hello and HAPPY NEW YEAR (and Jack!)back to you both! Wishing you a wonderful new year and hope it brings you many blessings, love and sunshine and lots pf happy adventures!!
    Gabri and Nicoline XOXO
    PS so glad the ornaments arrived!

  12. Tracey says:

    Dear Susan,
    Thank you for all the joy and beauty you bring to the world.
    Happy New Year! 🎉❤️✨

  13. FayE in CA! says:

    Happy New Year, my dear. 🎇🎆🍾 Wishing that a guardian angel chooses your home to protect you, Joe and sweet Jack in the new year…and always.

    Enjoy your precious, fun partnership with Joe and continued creativity to fulfill your hearts!! Give Jack a raise to keep him “working” in the desk drawer while you work. 😻

  14. Robin says:

    Thanks for all your positivity and hope – – it is so wonderful and refreshing.

  15. Christie Levin says:

    Dearest Sue, Wishing you and Joe a very Blessed and Happy New Year filled with every good thing. xoxoxo

    “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

  16. Maria says:

    Happy New Year, Susan, Joe & Jack!! Have a wonderful 2023. xo

  17. Kelly says:

    Wishing you all a Very Happy New Year!

  18. Lauri in Virginia says:

    Wishing you and Joe many blessings in the year to come!! 🎉🎇💜

  19. Patti says:

    Happy New Year 🥂🎉❤️

  20. Judi says:

    Happy New Year, Susan!!! I did just stop by and was surprised to find your message! Wonderful!!! Love the Musica!!! Thank you always for sharing your love for life and happiness and peace. Warm wishes to you for the BEST!!!

  21. Marlana says:

    Happy New Year to you and Joe! May 2023 give you many blessings!
    Hugs! Marlana 💕🥳💕🥳

  22. CAROL TURNER says:

    Happy New Year Susan, Joe, and Jack!

  23. Karen says:

    So nice to hear from you with a cheery message on New Year’s Eve. Happy new year to you, and Joe and your sweet kitty!

  24. Patsy Gallery says:

    Thank you for your continued kindness and the wonderful thoughts to begin a New Year. As bad as the world gets there are people like yourself that keep the faith and keep on going. Here is to a wonderful New Year 2023!

    All my best,

    A follower

  25. Claudette M.Jensen says:

    Happy, Happy New Year to you and Joe🎉. Yes, we must be positive and do our part to make it a better world!! Thanks for all of your positivity!!

  26. Davi Mondt Lowman says:

    Susan! May 2023 bring a fresh breath of air to our world… preferably one without COVID and it’s variants! Life is what we make of it no matter what!
    Come to Boone sometime so you can join into my book club’s fun! Quite some time ago, I picked “The Fairy Tale Girl” for my book choice – and to introduce you to the members – and what a hit it was! We’re all in the same age group as you and could relate to so many of the life events you experienced. I can introduce you to the Orr family who live in Boone! I hope you and Joe and Jack have a lovely New Year’s Eve…. And then it’s off into 2023 (!) we go!

  27. Dixie says:

    Happy New Year!
    Best Wishes to you and yours for 2023.

  28. Alice Dennison says:

    Happy New Year to You, Joe and Jack !

  29. Nicole Dube says:

    Happy New Year Susan!! The best part of 2022 was meeting you and all you girlfriends and going to England!!! Thank you for organizing the trip of a lifetime!! 😘❤️🤗

    • sbranch says:

      MY pleasure Nicole. Your smiling face and darling dresses was the perfect addition for all of us! 👏👏👏♥️💞♥️

  30. Judy Young says:

    Happy New Year Susan and Joe and Jack!!!

  31. Kathryn Redstone says:

    What a lovely New Year message from you! Thank you for the positivity and joy in your writing!!

  32. DebbyMc says:

    Happy New Year! Thanks for always making this a peaceful place for us, and sharing so much beauty and love. Here’s to a great 2023!❤️💕

  33. Coco says:

    Happy New Year!

    Thank you for this beautiful version of Auld Lang Syne. I put it on a loop and thought of my many dear ones and our own times long since.

    For 2023. let there be peace on earth — it will have to begin with us.

    xoxox Coco

  34. Judy from Maine says:

    Happy New Year to you and Joe

  35. Carol Wakefield says:

    Just put up your 2023 calendar in my kitchen and took down the 2022 , and as is my tradition I reread the old calendar. What a beautiful, inspiring and uplifting 12 months you created for us. It fills me with joy!!
    Happy New Year!!
    Carol

    • sbranch says:

      You’re a doll to tell me! Thank you so much … that is 100% why I do what I do. ❌⭕️❌⭕️

  36. Susan Miller says:

    Happy New Year!!

  37. Janet Robertson says:

    Happy New Year to you and Joe. May 2023 bring you both nothing but Happiness and Joy.

  38. Jackie says:

    Happy New Year to you, Susan, and thank you again for all the joy you bring to us through sharing your watercolors, photos, and written observations and musings. Every new post of yours brings smiles, and almost always, happy tears ( at least for me) at the sheer beauty of daily life. Thank you for encouraging us to live intentionally and celebrate the small things that make up our days.

    • sbranch says:

      Sometimes I cry when I’m writing! So I understand! Thank you Jackie. Happy New Year to you and yours.💖💖💖

  39. Pat W. says:

    HAPPY NEW YEAR Susan…..Thank you for this greeting & my wish for you and all that it will be a peaceful, healthy, safe New Year in 2023.

  40. Brenda says:

    Hello and Happy New Year!! Let’s all make this a great one!!

  41. Mary says:

    Happiest of New Years to you too. It always feel so pregnant with possibilities.

  42. Barbara M. says:

    Greetings from Vermont… and Happy 2023 to you, Susan! Looking forward to putting my name on the list for your new Queen Elizabeth cup! (Hope I didn’t miss it!!)

  43. Judy says:

    Happy 2023! Could hardly wait to put up your new calendar.
    It brightens my whole day…every day.
    Thank you from chilly Wisconsin!

  44. MargotB in Navarre says:

    Happy New Year 🎊 Sue and Joe!!
    Always liked this house drawing. I have the Winter ❄️ one.
    Love from Margot & Arnie
    OXOX

  45. Anjuli says:

    Happy New Year Susan! Thanks for being one of the most special parts of 2022. Every year I print out my favorite memories of the year as photos and hang them up all over the house to remind me of pure happiness. I have one up of meeting you this year:) And beginning the year with your journal to capture the best memories of 2023. May it be a wonderful one for you and all! Much Love!

  46. Kim Cox says:

    Happy New Year Susan, Joe and Jack, Susan have you read this book” LILIBET the brave” by Katie Rose (END GAME Press). Beautifully illustrated storybook about the late Queen Elizabeth II. I’m so happy you have made a Queen Elizabeth II cup. I think you painted her beautiful and strong! Looking forward to reading “The Dictionary of Lost Words” by Pip Williams Thankyou for sharing books and movies and well everything love it all:) Also my grandchildren ask me G (Gigi) what does that word mean? I introduced them to the dictionary. This is our new favorite book! We read it just for fun too:) Confirming this dictionary love is an article in Victoria Magazine January/February issue 2023 on last page 113. This issue also has many recipes using grapefruit in scones and parfaits,etc……enjoying your blogs/for my friends who need a printer I make them copies. Have a Wonerful Winter, Kim

    • sbranch says:

      You too Kim, and thank you! I understand dictionary/word love!! Good for your grandchildren! And good for you for encouraging their curiosity!! ❌⭕️❌⭕️

  47. Rebecca Brooks says:

    Happiest wishes for this new year of 2023. We ate black eyed peas today so crossing our fingers that will start us off right. My two kitties wish Jack a year of warm cozy naps, special treats and many kitty massages.

  48. Trudy says:

    A happy New Year to you and yours and a lot of happiness and good health.

  49. Ann Y. says:

    Happy New Year to you and Joe! 2023 is going to be the BEST!!!

  50. Nettie says:

    Happy happy New year to you and Joe and your kitty too
    This is the first year a friend I’ve had forever and who every year gifted me with a new calendar did not!!! I didn’t order one because I assumed she would continue the tradition. I respect that she must have felt the need to scale back but I wish I had known. Now I’m on a mission to fill the spot on my kitchen wall dedicated to you and your beautiful calendar. No other will do so I’ll continue to search
    Don’t worry next year I’ll order early!!! Happy Days to you especially on my beloved Vineyard💓🥳🎊

    • sbranch says:

      Ooooo, that’s a disappointment! Well let me know how the search goes, I hope you find one! ❌⭕️

    • Christie Levin says:

      Hi Nettie, I have a friend who is on the same Susan Branch 2023 wall calendar-finding mission as are you, so of course I went searching online and found it on the Meijer website!! http://www.meijer.com ~ it is selling there for $13.99 before shipping/tax. HOWEVER…you can purchase it in person or by orderin online for delivery if you live in one of 6 states where they have stores: Michigan, Wisconsin, Ilinois, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. They only deliver with a Meijer store truck to addresses within range of one of their stores. I called their customer care number (1-877-363-4537) and confirmed with a sales rep. If you don’t live near a Meijer store, perhaps you have a friend who does and will save your 2023 for you! I live in California or I would send one to you and one to my friend, Belinda. Hope you find a way to order one soon! xo

      • sbranch says:

        You wonderful girl! Thank you! SO helpful! Happy New Year Christie!!💖

        • Christie Levin says:

          Happy New Year to you dearest of Susans, and to Joe, too. Looking forward to your Zoom party on Saturday! I’m thinking of making your Snippy Doodle coffee cake for it – yum yummy. . xoxoxo

          • sbranch says:

            Mmmmmm, very good. I’m really looking forward to it. Although I always wish we were ALL talking … but Zoom isn’t pretty when that happens!🤣🤣🤣 We all learned about that with our friends during the pandemic! Ha ha, wasn’t easy!❌⭕️❌⭕️

  51. Nicoline says:

    Hello and HAPPY NEW YEAR (and Jack!)back to you both! Wishing you a wonderful new year and hope it brings you many blessings, love and sunshine and lots pf happy adventures!!
    Gabri and Nicoline XOXO
    PS Thank you for letting me know the ornaments arrived! In the past things I posted have gone AWOL……

    • sbranch says:

      Hi again Nicoline… now you can see the problem with your comments is ME! I love to read the comments, and hardly ever just let them go without reading them… I probably should because that means they have to wait for me. I don’t know which is worse, not reading them and letting them just go up, or making them wait for me! xoxo

  52. Mary Lawrence says:

    Happy New Year ,we ate our blackeyed peas and feel we are protected from bad vibes.lolI just saw a story about a cat that had 31 hair ties in its stomach made me think of Jack and his hair ties!The poor kitty did not survive after the surgery.So,don’t tell Jack not to eat any hair ties!I look forward to the new year and what life holds for us.Mary Elizabeth Marshall Lawrence

    • sbranch says:

      He doesn’t!!! He eats ribbon, so I have to watch him like a hawk, but he isn’t interested in his hair ties! Just wants me to keep shooting them for him! Happy New Year Mary!♥️

  53. pat addison (cavejunction, OR) says:

    wishing you, Joe and Jack a very Happy New year. may it be peaceful, healthy and full of fun and wonder. Happy New Year everyone!!!! hugs ….. 🙂

    • sbranch says:

      Hugs back to you Pat!🥰😘🥰😘

      • pat addison (cave junction, OR) says:

        this January 23, 2023, Happy Lunar New Year!!! it is Chinese New Year and it is the year of the rabbit. so, wishing you, Joe and Jack and all the girlfriends a happy, peaceful, prosperous and healthy new year. gung hei fat choi!!! not sure if this is right but i try. Happy year of the Rabbit. hugs, ….. 😀

  54. Lorrie Orr says:

    Happy New Year, Susan and Joe!

  55. marilyn says:

    Happy New Year!
    I love the fireworks.
    I slept through the celebration;
    but still singing “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.”

  56. Carol Duffey says:

    Happy New Year, Sue. I wish you a very beautiful 2023 in every way. And I just want to let you know that so many times you have posted on your blog and really lifted my spirits, beyond measure. Thank you for helping me realize that even when life is rough, there is always a silver lining to be grateful for.
    xoxo, Carol

    • sbranch says:

      Always wonderful to hear from you Carol. I’m glad they are helpful . . . I always feel like I’m writing a letter to my best friend! I hear you’re getting lots of rain in California . . . I hope it’s the good kind and fills up all the lakes and rivers and waters all the flowers. I’m thinking the wild flowers this spring might be worth a trip out!

      • Carol Duffey says:

        It’s supposed to be quite a storm tonight and tomorrow! We even have sandbags at our front door. Hopefully everything will be fine.
        Hope you can find time for a trip out this way!

        • sbranch says:

          My girlfriend Diane has sandbags too… and she’s up in SLO … must be quiet a storm!! Be safe!

  57. Susan Day says:

    Happy New Year!!
    Just finished reading your trilogy, finishing with A Fine Romance. Such a wonderful experience! Will Enchantment come out this year? So hoping!

    • sbranch says:

      THANK YOU!!!! XOXOXO

      • Susan Day says:

        I’ll keep my fingers crossed! Many of your girlfriends feel this way!🥰

        By the way, where do you purchase Peah Ci-Der? 😊

        • sbranch says:

          You CAN get it in the US, but it just isn’t the same. France seems to have a lock on the bubble industry imports … so we get Pear Cider but it doesn’t have the same amount of bubbles that it does in the UK! Either get it on the ship, OR, get it in the UK for prime cider drinking!

  58. Susan says:

    My best wishes to you for a wonderful 2023, Susan!

  59. Nicoline says:

    Hello and HAPPY NEW YEAR (and Jack!)back to you both! Wishing you a wonderful new year and hope it brings you many blessings, love and sunshine and lots pf happy adventures!!
    Gabri and Nicoline XOXO
    PS Thank you for letting me know the ornaments arrived! In the past things I posted have gone AWOL……
    PPSS, Sorry, this is the 3rd time I’ve tried to comment…..

    • sbranch says:

      Oh they did Nicoline! I have just had such a very busy Christmas that we didn’t even have a tree this year!!! So I have to save them for next year. It’s still been a wonderful holiday season, and I’m happy as a clam in this new year. Lovely, as always to hear from you. I got a wonderful letter from Janette … everything was stopped for the calendar deadline this year, so after I get to read all these comments waiting, I will write her back! I finished my last calendar yesterday BTW…I only have the approvals to go. So it’s house cleaning time for me which I LOVE… getting organized for the new year! It already looks better around here! Have you got all kinds of adventures planned for 2023? Hugs to you and Gabri and the kids! xoxoxo

      • Nicoline says:

        Hi Again! House cleaning, huh, well, how is that coming along?
        We are preparing for the builders to come this week, we are having our bathroom redecorated and also our downstairs toilet…Sort of dreading that, but looking forward to the results!
        Yes we do have some adventures planned, and we’re heading back to lovely St Ives, Cornwall in June, and then in September we;’re going to the Peak District for a week, and Norfolk for a week. We have not been to either of these areas, so looking forward to that.
        Gabri has a milestone birthday at the end of this month, and we might go away for a weekend to celebrate that.
        As you might have noticed, we really like going away, haha!
        You are on Instagram, right? Well, if you like dachshund dogs, little sausage dogs, have a look at …
        the_daxie_trouble
        The owner lives in Norfolk, and she gets her dogs to wear the funniest things, hats and little costumes…they can really pose for photo’s too, she makes me laugh pretty much every day! She shared a picture of them all walking through woods a few days ago, and lots of showdrops were blooming already!
        Anyway, I’m heading to the kitchen for a warm drink and some tissues, I think I have a rotten cold that is going through Holland at the moment…
        Lots of love to you all,
        Nicoline
        xoxo

        • sbranch says:

          It’s coming along great. Putting things back together after a big project makes me so happy! You’re so lucky to live in the Disneyland of Europe … you know traveling through Europe is where Walt Disney got his idea for Disneyland, and his “lands” Adventureland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland? And there you are, in the middle of the real thing! Right out your front door, pure adventure, fantasy, and so much of yesterday land! I’m giving that IG address to my sister who is a dachshund aficionado! She has had a bunch of them and is totally addicted! Thank you! Feel better Nicoline! 🤧

          • Nicoline says:

            Hi again,
            Well, I never knew that about Walt Disney! Living in Disneyland huh, well, I have never thought of Europe in that way….
            I was able to find the link to the enchanted bookclub conversation, and just finished watching it, and really enjoyed that!
            I have been thinking of trying to meditate for ages….but for some reason it still is hard to fit it in the day…Do you have a certain time that you meditate?
            I really enjoyed all you told us, love your earrings too!
            The renovation is coming along great, and I’m still coughing, but not as much as last week…
            There are signs of spring now, little green shoots popping up in the garden, so hopefully snowdrops will appear soon….
            Happy halfway through january!
            Nicoline
            xoxo

          • sbranch says:

            Yes, all those different cultures, beauties, languages. I meditate in the morning usually, but these days I try and have conscious moments throughout the day, a moment of quiet… I think it beats stress! You are so lucky, spring comes early for you! We have shoots too, but for the wrong reason… such a warm winter… I’m worried a cold snap will come and hurt the green things poking their heads up too soon! Happy halfway through January! Are you going to the Coronation? xoxoxo

  60. Mary Brehm says:

    Happy New Year to you and Joe. Thank you for all the light and happiness you share with us all. Every, post a gentle reminder to stay positive and see all the light and goodness that is all around. Your fire works are beautiful. We saw some lovely ones on our friends front lawn in Middlebury VT. All the hub bub of the holidays is done and our house is quiet. Just kitties purring, furnace humming, dryer tumbling, blissfully quiet house sounds. I still haven’t taken down Christmas. Perhaps this weekend. Have fun putting your house in order.
    Love, Mary

    • sbranch says:

      Heater humming, dryer tumbling… aren’t we so ridiculously BLESSED??? You too Mary, have fun!💞

  61. Laura says:

    Happy New Year!!!♥️♥️♥️

  62. Dana Burton says:

    Happy, happy New Year, Susan! I hope your 2023 is full of love, peace, joy, excellent health, and lots of laughter. You will be a part of my 2023 as Distilled Genius was a Christmas gift from my husband, and although I have already read it cover to cover, I will continuously refer to it for inspiration the whole year through! My husband also gave me “Little Pig Robinson” as a Christmas gift to add to my Beatrix Potter friends. They sit in my kitchen window sill, and always remind me of you, our sweet Susan Branch. The one who introduced me to Beatrix Potter figurines and so much more. So thankful God gave us YOU!

    • sbranch says:

      Oh I do love my Little Pig Robinson! He’s a good one! Thank you Dana!!! Sweet music to my ears!💖💖💖💖

  63. Ginette D Wheeler says:

    Happy New Year Susan! Glad to hear you had a nice quieter relaxing one. I find myself a little envious and I wish I had followed your lead. I also didn’t intend to decorate this year, had plenty of other things on my plate but a dear old friend bought a snow globe in November and bribed me with to put up my decorations. I knew she was just trying to look out for my happiness, and she was just so persistent, (did I mention the snow globe was really cute too?), so I reluctantly agreed. It made her so happy to come over and see the house all dolled up for the holidays. Now it’s the 6th of January and I still have the big tree left with all the glass ornaments collected over 37 years and I’m exhausted. I’ve already sorted and packed 20 rough totes of just Christmas decorations and hauled them to the backyard shed, hoisted them back onto their shelves and locked the door. I have two more totes to fill with the glass ornaments before they join the 6 other totes filled with precious fragile items that I’ve already put out on the shelves in the garage. I’m getting too old and fat for this! It’s just not fun anymore like it was when I started amassing my Christmas hoard some 40 years ago. Though it’s all beautiful once I’ve put it all together it takes days to do (did I mention the ladders I have to climb in order to achieve “decking those halls?) and then it takes just as many to put it all away. Yep, this old gal is starting to understand why the older women of my youth toned down their decor year and year. I think I could find happiness in a smaller tree and a few little treasures from the past to warm our home next year and I’ll make copies of my old Christmas photos to gift my friend when she whines about the lack of decor! Here’s to an enlightening new year with hope that mankind can find peace in their hearts and good will for all men. Love to you and Joe and Jack.

    • sbranch says:

      I think that friend needed to help you!😂 It’s too much. You made me want to take a nap just reading about it!!! “It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.” —W. T. Ellis That was especially true for us this year, and we had a LOVELY Christmas!🤣 Blessings on you Ginette ~ you have beautiful team spirit! Here’s wishes for a WONDERFUL peaceful new year. ❌⭕️❌⭕️

  64. Rebecca says:

    Hello Susan! I’m joining all these other dear girlfriends in wishing you and your cheery (and busy) household a Happy New Year. Like so many of them, I am also sincerely grateful for the goodness you have brought through your wonderful posts/Willards, your incredible artwork (and not just artwork – practical things like mugs and calendars! William Morris would approve, I’m just sure of it!), and the friendly “let’s-look-at-the-bright-side,- shall-we?” mindset that runs like a ribbon through everything coming from your magical spot on the map! Thank you ever so much and may God bless us with a lovely new year!

  65. Miriam says:

    Happy New Year ,
    Miriam from Italy

  66. Candice Black says:

    Dearest Susan,
    I so enjoyed your recent conversation from The Enchanted Book Club. I signed up for it but missed it as I was babysitting our 2 Grandchildren. So I watched the taped version. It was so enlightening and I loved the conversation about “Prosperity”. I can really relate to saving “paper”! I made memory boxes for all of our nieces and nephews on my side of the family for Christmas. They loved them, I filled them with photos, newspaper cuttings, all sorts of goodies that had been saved that came from my Grandparents, Parents and myself through the years and topped them off with a handmade Christmas ornament and some sweets. They were definitely a big hit and much appreciated, everything passed on to the next generation for “Prosperity”! Listening to your thoughts about making the “Memory Boxes” (that is what I call them) has lit a fire in me to do the same for my cousins in the UK and for my husbands side of the family too!
    Looking forward to the pre-sale of the cups! Thank You for being such a lovely inspiration for all of us Girlfriends! Happy New Year to You and Yours! xo

  67. Debbie Boerger says:

    This is for Nicoline,
    For you and anyone who loves dachshunds in funny costumes, check out Caruso the Famous Dachshund. He’s been on Utube since 2011. He now has a sister and brother who join him on the stage….His owners live in Toronto. Not sure who makes the costumes, but they are “elaborate” to say the very least. Caruso is getting old now, and has just had his second back surgery.. We’ve had mini dachshunds, and they do tend to have those issues.
    If you don’t have anything to do with your time (Right!) you can go down the “rabbit hole” watching them.
    BYW, I love your comments. Get well soon.
    Debbie on Ballast Point, Tampa

  68. Debbie Boerger says:

    Dachshunds Again.
    It’s celebritydachshund.com The videos over the years are just adorable.
    Our little girl was a 5 pound black and tan. Calmest smartest one I ever had. I loved them all the same, though.
    Back to work, daughter and her wonderful guy, a Frenchman, will be coming for supper Saturday.
    Mucho love and Thanks for all the Joy you spread…just the best kind of virus.
    Debbie in Tampa

  69. Debbie Boerger says:

    I know it’s still Winter but….can’t help planning a Trip!! Going to Quebec City, seriously North America’s most beautiful. We may have my lovely step daughter and her French Fella with us. Have rooms picked out at the same place we stayed last trip, small hotel with stunning views across the park to the Chateau Frontenac. What a sight at night! Oldest City in N. America, if you don’t count St. Augustine, which was just a tiny village with a fort. So much of the Old City is Original….just as it is in Jolly Olde England. We’ll upgrade ourselves on the room, as the exchange rate is very favorable to Yanks.
    Back to working on the kitchen. Company for Saturday.
    Sheesh! I’m So Fortunate.
    Debbie in twilight Tampa

    • sbranch says:

      So fun to dream and plan. When are you going? Joe and I drove up there many years ago, looking for nearby “foreign country!” Is very beautiful! You’ve definitely been blessed with the happy gene Debbie!

  70. Tammy says:

    Hi Susan,
    Is there any chance that more of the full size 2023 calendars are being printed? I somehow missed my chance to get one. I’ve so enjoyed your 2022 calendar.

    • sbranch says:

      I’m so sorry Tammy, they don’t reprint after December first . . . We don’t usually run completely out, but it happens every so often.

    • FayE in CA! says:

      I just searched ebay and found two 2023 wall calendars for sale…over $30, but available. Hope you get one, Tammy…fingers crossed for you. Keep searching ’cause they are out there. 🙂

  71. Keren Baldwin-Snyder Wheeler says:

    I have just discovered this secret hideaway on the internet. I never dreamt such a magical happy place could be discovered. I am planning a visit to Beatrix’s Hill top and your page popped up. How could I have missed out all of these years….Old books, embroidered pillowcases, quilts and quotes…Bookmarked! I will return. Happy New Year! 1/16/2023

  72. Mamey Brown says:

    HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I look forward to a brand new year. Thanks for the wonderful experiences I have every time I read one of your posts…….

  73. Debbie Boerger says:

    Saw a delightful movie…streaming at home last night. Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris.
    Be safe and well, Dear Lady.
    Debbie in Tampa

    • sbranch says:

      Trying to get that … where did you watch it Debbie?

      • Debbie Boerger says:

        I watched it on Peacock. We have several streaming services, as there isn’t too much on “regular” TV that grabs us. But I’m sure you can get it thru Amazon for a few dollars.
        I love Leslie Manville. Did you see The Peacock Murders? Great murder mystery with a Twist.
        I sign on to a service, and when we’ve “binged” a series, I cancel….until something else comes along. Now waiting for season 2 of The Gilded Age. Oh, was that delicious!!!!
        I also have “the depression gene”, but I work very hard to keep it under control by asking for help when I need it. I can’t go too low when I have my daily dose of this blog. Have a couple of great old friends who know the score and are always there.
        Not sure when exactly we’ll go to Quebec. Looking at early June or September. Needs to be “shoulder” season price wise.
        Mucho Big Love and Thanks for all you do to make the world a better place!!
        Debbie in Tampa

        • sbranch says:

          We started it, not sure where we are in that . . . Have you seen Amsterdam?👀

          • Debbie Boerger says:

            Do you mean New Amsterdam? Medical drama that shows Dr. Max Goodman struggling to make medical care available to everyone? I’m on season 2. I really like all the characters, even if we know that it’s not possible to do all they do. It’s something to shoot for. What a radical idea! Health care for everyone!! Even the uninsured.
            Get ready for the next snow dump!!

          • sbranch says:

            It’s just called Amsterdam ~ it’s a movie not a series. Here’s a little thing about it!

  74. Viffy says:

    Happy New Year!

  75. Debbie Boerger says:

    Ohhhh, Amsterdam looks fabulous! As soon as Guilded Age comes out on HBO, we’ll get it. I know Tom will like Amsterdam and I can watch GA on my Kindle.
    Thank you, my Dear. I’m on the 3rd day of Atomic Habits!! Wow, totally different process for establishing good, healthy habits. Did a bit of backsliding last night. Came downstairs at 10 PM and ate a bowl of granola….on top of a huge chef salad for supper. OK, today’s a brand new day. 🙂
    Stay safe in all the snow and ice.
    Debbie in gawjus weather..Tampa

    • sbranch says:

      I’ll have to check that out!! Right now, must finish new blog post — goes out in 2 ½ hours but it’s almost finished! Happy day dear one!

  76. Sherry Winchester says:

    Hello, Susan! Happy New Year to you and Joe and Jack! I love the cat references! We are a multi-cat household, so I can very much identify with everything you’ve said! ….It’s a lovely blog this time, full of much entertainment and education. Always a joy to read! Thank you once again!

  77. Debra. E. Sewell says:

    i have just sent for an old Gladys Taber cookbook. Willard was great this month. I am still anxious about book “Enchanted” you promised us way back. I bought the first chapter excerpt and needing more. Your neices were beautiful. Holly looks exactly like you !!

    be safe on slippery roads and walkways. Happy New Year.

    Thank you every day.
    Debra Sewell

  78. You’re lucky Jack doesn’t care for hibiscus! I had to get rid of mine because they are toxic to cats and Midnight wouldn’t leave it alone.

    • sbranch says:

      Maybe because those plants are SO BIG, he’s not interested? Not sure why. He isn’t interested in the Christmas tree either, thank goodness.😻

  79. Robin Crittenden says:

    Susan,
    In case you didn’t know all lily’s are highly toxic to cats. Even the pollen can cause kidney failure. Protect Jack and get rid of the plants. Google it.

    Loved the Willard.

    • sbranch says:

      I’ve read that, but Jack has lived with this plant his whole life ~ 11 years, and for some reason, probably innate cat brilliance, he’s never showed any interest in it! I appreciate tips like this, because I DON’T always know. I kind of read up on plants poison to cats when I was told by one of our girlfriends that bittersweet is toxic to them. Sad, it’s such a great autumn decoration, but I have to use it outside, where he doesn’t go!♥️

  80. another yummy installment here! So many YES’s! (astrolmeria! Yes! little box lids to sort the hair pins YES!) – also I have thought of you as we watch Magpie Mystery on PBS (with the actress from Mrs Harris Goes to Paris).. it’s so fun and seems like something you would enjoy. Also we are headed to the Cotswolds and Oxford and London in March if anyone has any must-do’s to add to the list! Favorite places for tea? Is Bloomsbury worth a look see? and PS CONGRATULATIONs on your bedroom-in-the-closet!

  81. Jan Johnson says:

    I missed this somehow! I don’t think I got it, so I’m going to sign up again.

    Oh my goodness! This post was the best thing this month! First of all, the Scala radio station is so wonderful. I was going to watch things on-line tonight, on Acorn or BritBox of course, but I can’t make myself cut this station off! I so love when they play the birdsong and flowing creek sounds! I don’t even mind the ads because of the accent! I love that I can listen on my computer. I also put the app on my phone.

    Second, Gladys Taber! I used to collect her books, which I have loved since the 70s from my childhood. Unfortunately my house flooded and boxes of books were ruined. I lost almost every book Gene Stratton Porter wrote. I’ve never been able to afford to replace them, but I am going to get this newsletter and go check eBay again and see if I can find a bargain. I wanted to live at Stillmeadow so badly. I loved her book about Amber the cat! I so appreciate the reminder of this wonderful lady!

    Then, the book “Still Life” sounds wonderful. I’m going to be on eBay in a minute looking for that as well as Gladys Taber books!

    A wonderful bundle of info! Thanks so much!

    • sbranch says:

      I walked up the street Stillmeadow is on, leafiest, most peaceful country road possible! I’m so sorry to hear you lost all your Gene Stratton Porter books! But at least you HAD them, which is a wonderful thing. Glad you enjoyed the blog post!❌⭕️

  82. P.Hatfield says:

    Wonderful, wonderful blog today! You light up my life when I read such lovely, positive and hopeful thoughts. Thank you. God bless you and yours.

  83. Monica says:

    Hi Susan,
    Enjoyed Willard once again. What brand of oil do you use for your table? I have a teakwood table that is looking a bit dry.
    Last summer my family and I traveled to the east coast and rented a car for two weeks and drove from Bangor, ME to New York. We traveled the cape and stayed a couple of nights in Woods Hole where we traveled to Martha’s Vineyard. We had a wonderful time and drove around the island stopping in different locations to enjoy the sights. It is a beautiful place and stopped in small shops looking for treats and jams to bring home. We found wonderful antique stores and I was fortunate enough to find an old Martha’s Vineyard milk bottle with green lettering. It is now a flower vase and love adding fresh flowers.

    • sbranch says:

      As long as your wood is unfinished (nothing on it, raw wood) use mineral oil, any kind, we do have some in my webstore, but you can get it at any drugstore. Mineral oil doesn’t go rancid. Your trip sounds perfect. Isn’t it amazing how small New England actually is? I was surprised when I discovered you could easily be in 3 states in one day … not so easy in California where I came from! Good on you for that milk bottle!!♥️

  84. Marilyn says:

    Nice to hear from you. I love Gladys Taber’s books. I have read them several times. Wishing you and yours a Happy and Blessed New Year. God Bless.
    Marilyn

  85. Marion says:

    Hi Susan;
    This is a very interesting post. Our home library is filled with Gladys Taber books. We are all fans of her. She brings warmth and homey feelings in every word she writes.
    Susan may 2023 bring you everything wonderful and great.
    Marion

    • sbranch says:

      How lucky for you Marion! But I guess luck had nothing to do with it, except for the discovery! Blessings for a happy 2023 for you and yours.

  86. janJah Maichel says:

    Loved this blog,my 1st time commenting!
    My BFF from high school (1970) went to see Jesus yesterday,and I’m so sad. Susan cheered me up!❤

  87. Peggy says:

    Thank you for recommending The Dictionary of Lost Words. I am in the middle of the book now and love it.

  88. Sandy V says:

    Thank you, Susan. I always enjoy your newsletters. I don’t always read them right away, and in fact I’ve missed quite a few through the years. But recently I’ve been going back and reading the old ones – thank you SO much for keeping the archive online. In our crazy world, your positive writing and beautiful art are truly a balm to the soul.

    • sbranch says:

      Lovely to hear that Sandy! … I like to go back and read them as they work just like my diaries!!!🌷🌷🌷

  89. Marcia says:

    I’m late reading this post. Hope you, Joe and Jack are staying warm and safe in this terrible arctic blast.

    • sbranch says:

      It’s all gone now. Yesterday was truly just like spring to the point of kicking up our feet and going out for iced coffees! And I think either tomorrow or the next day it will be in the 50s! This NEVER happens, it’s been such a warm winter. It’s not right, but it’s been very easy walking every morning.❌⭕️

Comments are closed.