I’m sure you all know what I mean by Hot Hot Hot 😳 … but I thought I would give you something ELSE to think about . . . maybe blow some ocean wind your way . . . with some MUSICA ❤️ FOR 
GUESS WHAT???
GOOD NEWS!
While it’s only 2023, and I’m hard at work on the 2025 Calendars, the 2024 Calendars have arrived! YAY!! Somehow it all makes sense! Was counting the years the other day … my first calendar came out in 1993… I’ve been keeping track of our days for a long time, 10,950 days so far, not counting leap years!!!🌸
We can add another 365 days to the tally with this new 12 x 12 Wall Calendar . . . to put some cute in your kitchen and remind you and your children of life before phones!😂 You probably remember, the manufacturer ran out last year which meant some of you didn’t get your calendar. That rarely happens, but we never know! Hopefully it won’t happen again, but do make sure if it matters, if you do want one, or if you’re planning for Christmas, you put your name on it.😘
And the others are all here too, the large Desk Blotter Calendar, the 7 x 7″ Mini, and the Purse Calendar, all in and ready to go. Click on that link to see more… Hope you LOVE them!❤️
Most importantly on any calendar, be sure not to simply plan for dentist appointments, you have to put fun on your calendar … and here’s why . . .
Taking my own advice . . . Joe and I love going out at night . . . watching the summer sun go down . . .
I’ve been keeping my little vases filled with flowers from the garden . . .
When I’m doing “gratitude” … I always include this tiny shelf in my kitchen over the sink. It was here when we came, Mr. Bowditch built it in the 1950s for Mrs. Bowditch! What a good boy he was! Perfect for tiny vases! I’m wondering if she used it for cough medicine, prescriptions, salt and pepper, and dish soap, or if like me, it was filled with beach glass, candles, shells, daisies, and Beatrix Potter!?!
I’m working a lot right now . . . but when I’m not … life is always about the little things!💖 The ones that make life worth living. The MINUTE I finished the new wall calendar last night, I went to the garden and changed all the flowers in the little vases. First thing’s first.
We go early now on our walk through the woods to the sea . . . and try to get out before the heat or the bugs begin to attack! We each carry an old dishtowel, and when needed, we twirl them over our heads, or fling them over our backs to deter all bugs with a bad attitude. Works well!
We need to go here for the exercise, for me to get the circles closed on my demanding, pushy watch, and for the cool refreshingness of being near the water . . .
Also, Books!!! Our walk now means books!!! This is the book we’re listening to now… it’s based on history, but not a true story … 22 year old Girl enlists in the Revolutionary War disguised as a 16 year old boy. If she looked like the girl on the cover, I don’t think she would get away with it! Interesting to get “You are there” details of that war in such a descriptive way. It’s action-packed, horses, and officers, West Point, attacks in the woods, sneaky traitors cross-country travel . . . We’re not done, but we can see there is a love story coming up!
Then home through the neighborhoods . . . I just wanted to show you this pretty, leafy, old street… worth going home the long way!
We stopped at a yard sale . . .
We bought that dresser behind the chair! Handmade, beautiful, and old, and only $200. Needed it. The dresser I use is like my brother’s dresser when he was in the 4th grade. Maple and really small. I’m getting a “new one”!👏👏👏 Joe just left to pick it up! Then we have to enlist someone to help him get it upstairs, which is when I take over! I don’t understand why anyone buys new furniture. I’ve been looking for a dresser but haven’t found what I liked ~ everything was well over a thousand dollars and probably not even made of wood! This is better!❤️
We lightened up the house, put in the window air conditioners, strategically placed fans where needed, so we’re doing pretty good 
in here! I AM bothered that the earth seems to have now kicked us off for TWO seasons … used to be only winter where we had to control our environment in order to survive. Never even had air conditioners at home, in cars, in stores around here, for the first 20 years I lived here! That party is OVER.
But there are summer treats to be had ~ things that make summer special, things we don’t really do any other time of year!
I made us my favorite ice cream with our own basil from the garden. It’s such an easy recipe, interesting, and delicious with all the basil and lemon zest. Lots of protein too, and lots of fat!!
It’s cooked! Do it early in the day before it gets hot!
The recipe is on page 147 of the expanded Anniversary edition of Heart of the Home…you can put chocolate sauce on it, but it’s even better with Balsamic Syrup. Sounds crazy, but it’s just NOT! Excellent with angel food cake too! PS. Know what else is good with a little dollop of Hershey’s Syrup? Coffee! Yum, with milk! Joe makes it for me sometimes.💖
Anyway, isn’t it pretty? Pale green, perfect for a summer party!
And another recipe many of you have tried, but might want to be reminded of! Bubble-gum PINK Skip and Go Nakeds!
I’m having a thing about the color pink lately! Anyone else? I always love pink, but right now I can’t get enough of it, found the perfect color in my paint box and making hay while the sunshines! Why? I don’t know, must be magic!
We’ve been out and about too, for the sunsets, for dinner next to the water . . . the other night a friend had a party at her beautiful house, and these gorgeous fragrant lilies greeted us in her driveway. Party ready! I asked her how much she had to pay those flowers to get them to bloom at exactly this moment!🌸
Such a nice party! We filled our plates with a delicious bean salad, a green salad, baguette sandwiches, watermelon, brownies, and lemon bars. She had set up lots of chairs in the garden where we sat, we ate on trays, and watched a silent movie on a screen they’d set up under the stars! Such a magical, creative evening! The music was wonderful. The fireflies came out! The movie was The Artist! Do you see the sapphire sky above the trees…?
We’re keeping icy little bowls of watermelon in the fridge these days!
It’s hot here too, not as bad as it’s been in Texas and Arizona! 
But I just heard on the news this will be the coolest summer in the next 20 years so we’re doing our best to make as many memories as we can! Going to the beach for a picnic tonight. A wee picnic, everyone bringing their chair and sandwiches!
I didn’t finish writing this blog yesterday, so here we are, last night, at the beach. That’s my girlfriend Barbara in the foreground, and I’m taking a picture of Lowely back there with two visiting friends she’s known since KINDERGARTEN and 3rd GRADE! And Joe is taking pictures of all of us! While he opens icy clams on the half shell to share with us all! Lovely evening. 90º when we left the house at 6pm… but a nice breeze next to the water … and we cover up because it’s cool enough and to keep the no-see-ums off us ~ we talk, eat, and watch the ferry and sailboats go by.⛵️ Now Girlfriends, I need some help!
While working on the new calendars these last few months I’ve also been realizing how long I’ve been doing this, and thinking about my next steps in life, and trying to lay down what I call “the foundation for the creation.” A foundation for what comes next, because basically, something has to 
give. I need help. I started thinking I could be so much more creative if I had a literary agent! There are so many things they help you do! But I haven’t had one in years, since my last agent retired in the early 2,000s. And I was so busy back then, plus there wasn’t this luv-lee internet connection to help, I didn’t try to get another, because, as many of you know, it can be time-consuming trying to find a good match and writing all those letters! So it’s just been me all these years, in my house, like a 5 year old, making stuff. So I decided to ask you! And TIME is my big problem. I asked my Girlfriends on Instagram yesterday too… because what is better than word of mouth? NOTHING! Might take a while, but that’s fine! I’d like to go back to the way it was in the old days, when all I did is write books and paint! I want to go back to writing ENCHANTED! But I get waylaid by doing organizational stuff instead of writing! So, if any 
of you know a literary agent, or you know someone who knows one, please ask them to get in touch! I could do it the old-fashioned way and write those letters, but it would be so much easier if someone with experience in this business was interested ~ someone who’s already familiar with my work, and already likes me, and would enjoy representing my books! I want it to be fun! Just going to see what happens! I figure if someone is interested they will contact me . . . my job is to put that dream out there… so here I am! 💖 Thank you!💖
I need to practice what I preach ~ the magic of new beginnings!❤️
Maybe we can get some of these out-of-print books re-published! Not to mention new ones! And perhaps do something to protect the future of my book-children! Distilled Genius and Gratitude are missing from this stack! I need to take a new photo! But look how cute! All those ribbons!💖
And now that I think about it🤔 . . . what about the last 40 years of my art? Yikes! What shall I do with it… it’s a huge digitized library, do I just pile the originals in boxes and put them in the garage? There’s a LOT of it. And all these years of blog posts and 
Willards! They should be made into a book, don’t you think? Or three books probably! And my 133,000 photos! My diaries and even my “Legacy?” I need someone who knows what to do with all of this! And that is definitely not me! Plus if I try to do it, it means I have to stop everything else! 😯 And therein lies the rub!!! I don’t want to! I’m still young! 🤣 See my dilemma? And I just realized (through just now talking it out), I know what’s been bothering me these last months!!! THANK YOU for listening my good Girlfriend Psychiatrists! I made a big mess for myself over here!🤣
Look at all this stuff!
Remember the stickers? The stationery, fabric, rugs, and pajamas . . . the dishes? So MUCH stuff!
OK, going to quit now before I think of anything else! (The film rights!) Good grief! Noooo. STOP.
Okay darlings, this is a different kind of post, right? But you have been with me the entire time, who else would I ask? Feels almost as exciting is going to England together! And as always and forever it comes with love . . . and gratitude… we’ve had some wonderful years sharing our lives!💞
And it ain’t over yet!
My boy keeps busy too!
This is EXACTLY how I felt when I retired from teaching in January! Turning that page, and thinking carefully not just what I would put on the new one but HOW. It’s so good to be reflective, thoughtful, and intentional but also we need the time to do the things. I wish I could help you with the literary agent, but I would be MORE than happy to buy more stickers and stationery items. Oh, how about a big Susan Branch virtual yard sale? 💜
No time! 🤣🤣🤣
Liz, When I knew I was retiring from teaching kindergarten I started giving away all of my manipulatives, my marching band instruments, and most of my books to the other teachers. I hung on to lots of favorite books, but wound up donating them to another elementary school a year later. It was hard to let it all go, but I did. 😥 So I understand how you felt. It’s 10 years now and I only have the seasonal decorative items that I can use in my house. Still too much stuff!!
I kept all my manipulatives and puzzles, because for a number of years our house was the designated Art/Learning center for the neighbor’s kids. So much fun getting to continue being a teacher, no holds barred! Nature walks, collecting water from a vernal pond, Using the microscope!! All the kids are all grown up and living adult lives. One came up from MA for a few days with her parents. So proud! Having kids without actually birthing them….Fun, fun, fun.
Hi Susan!
I wish I knew a literary agent to recommend or better yet was one – what a joy it would be to work with you! I am sure someone wonderful will come your way though the girlfiend network : )
Side note – I absolutely love the idea of putting your Willards into a book compilation form! You could separate them by season like Gladys Taber and Faith Baldwin. I have their books on my night stand and switch them out seasonally. Perfect bedtime reading!
One more thing – is it possible you might ever publish “Pancakes” as a short story? I remember seeing it in a Willard I’ve long since lost, but loved the story so much.
I did too! I have it all ready to put in a book… art and writing is done ~ I’d planned it for breakfast cookbook called Pancakes!… but time is my problem!!! I probably shouldn’t have told you!😆
hah! that is SO funny. you shouldn’t have told me.
i’m sure it will come to fruition some day soon. literary agent to the rescue!!! : )
the story so reminds me of my aunt and i’ve always wanted to share the it with her!! : )
have a great day susan. xx
Great ideas!
Is there anything better than sitting with a coffee and reading your post?! I can’t recall when I first found you on the web or bought one of your books but it’s been a looong time. I would love to see a book of just your art work maybe with a little blurb about the art. I know you have so much on the go, you definitely need an assistant. 😁 Thank you for putting so much love in everything you do. It’s infectious ❣️
I always wanted to do a book called HOME … it could include so many subjects and so much art, and photos too.💖
I wish I was a literary agent! I have thought about a book of your blogs for years now, as rereading your old posts makes me calm when things are a bit dark at times. I once even tried to print them out, but that doesn’t work! I would be first in line to buy that book. 😁
👏👏👏👏👏👏
I saw your Instagram post about needing a literary agent. I thought of Elin Hildebrand’s friend Tim. He works at a bookstore on Nantucket and is very supportive of Elin and other authors. He might be able to help you. See if he would meet with you and bring him your most recent books. He’s @timtalksbooks and Elin is @elinhilderbrand. I love her books. You would like the Winter Street series. I am just suggesting this based on following them on Instagram. I don’t know them. Good luck. 📚
I’m hoping someone who’s interested will contact me! I know they sell my books on Nantucket! And maybe he will know someone for me!💖
Oh Susan, I know exactly what you mean! I have practiced estate planning law for so long, and I love it, and I never wanted a big staff because I thought I’d end up spending all my time managing, instead of working, so I’ve done it mostly by myself. But now – you know how you go to the dentist, and someone checks you in, and someone else cleans your teeth, and someone else takes your payment and deals with insurance, and the dentist just – dentists? I want to dentist! My version of it, anyway. Where to start in the digital age when you were born long before it? I’m so glad you have your answer – a literary agent – even if she or he hasn’t quite appeared yet. I am keeping my fingers crossed for you and have complete faith that the Girlfriend magic will find your person for you!
I want to dentist too Melissa!🤣 Well said!!👏👏👏👏👏
Love the new post! Just reading your books and posts over and over makes me feel better and more energetic! Thank you for your wonderful body of work. Keeping my fingers crossed that you get a great new agent!
A-Lo-ha-ha … Susan!! It’s been awhile but you’re always in my life🌺 I’m forwarding your info to my cousin Caroline who’s an editor etc (and agent to Gorman!!) … I love you so she’ll love you too🌺 It’s warming up to 80’s in San Diego .. Xo Evie
Somebody will know someone… it just has to be! Love, as always, hearing your A-Lo-Ha-Ha!!!
Sorry Sorry … my cousin’s a publicist and not an agent😢
❤️❤️❤️
Lovely Willard, as refreshing as a lemon and strawberry ice cream!
Please ,Please, Please DO collect all your Willards and blog post in a book ( or three) ! Such a fantastic idea and such a precious gift for us! A concentrate of wisdom , “joie de vivre”, fun, beauty … please , say YES!
Working it Laura! We’ll see what happens!❤️
I wish I was a literary agent because I would love to be one for you! Even though I can’t help you in that department, I can in the purchasing side of things. Please bring back your stickers and pajamas and make more puzzles! Candles would be lovely too!
💖💖💖💖
So much really CUTE stuff! …Love it all!
~linda
What a delight to find your surprise Willard in my IN box!
Sorry, I don’t know any literary agents at all and never have had a friend who had that job. You’d certainly be fun to work for, but I’m a retired RN. I’m literate in medical jargon and am a reader, but not who you need at all. Good luck finding just the right person the first time.
Time for lunch and some Peach tea. ‘Tis the season!
Hugs!
Tis the season Barbara! Thank you so much for what you did! I know you made an amazing difference to so many in your life!💖
Oh goodness, I now wish I had decided 40 years ago to be a literary agent! What a dream it would be to represent YOU! I’m hoping the perfect person comes your way. We need your creative mind to stay free and fresh so we can all continue to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
During a break from hot, sweaty garden labor (I took a week off from work to get some projects accomplished), it was a joyful surprise to find a Willard! 😊
💖💖💖
Susan – I have every one of your published 12 by 12 wall calendars. And I think almost every one of your books. Your story gives me hope as I embark on my own writing career – late late bloomer at age 65+.
Sending all good thoughts and positive energy – Marcia from Gloucester County NJ
Laura Ingalls Wilder was 65 when she published Little House on the Prairie!!! Lorna Page is the oldest, at 93 …. it’s never too late ~ if you feel like it ~ Do it! 💖
Susan dear, I just know your literary agent will magically show up soon! How could she not with putting your request out there for all your GIRLFRIENDS to see! Dreams do come true, and you have so many more to manifest. Enjoy all your beautiful mornings and evenings, sweet friend. Xoxo Karen 🦋🌸🩷
SUSAN! Yes!… it is HOT HOT HOT in your home state of IOWA… let’s just add another HOT to that!
But it’s also been rainy – last night’s good old-fashioned thunderstorm dumped about 3.5″ of rain on our Smiling Dog Farm. My flower gardens are smiling, too! Not to mention, my darling Mr. Lowman’s tomato plants.
Anyway, it’s a glorious time here with the addition of a new PUPPIE. His name is Arlie J. Lowman and he is a Goldendoodle. 9.5 weeks old as we speak… and smart as a whip (as my Great Grandmother Nellie Bly Peyton Balcer used to say). Over the past 2.5 weeks, Arlie has made me re-lived my new baby days…. up several times a night – then a night where he sleeps from 10:30p to 6a, and I think he must have stopped breathing! He fills me with joy and keeps me moving.
Re balsamic vinegar: We Tuscans (I think I’ve mentioned that I take small groups on tour in Tuscany) drizzle it on top of vanilla gelato and strawberries.
It is to die for.
Need I say that I love your wonderful Willards and look forward to them SO much.
We all need much more happiness, laughter, joy, friendship, and kindness these days. I’m doing my part by helping Democratic candidates get into office!
We must never give up hope!
The best to you, dear Susan!
You are definitely doing your part!!! Loved every word. Happy new puppy… no wonder your dog is smiling, he got YOU!👏👏👏
Hi Dearie,
One of my best friends is a well known author of many books on knitting and she has taught all over the world- even at Tasha Tudor’s house. I will ask her if she knows someone.
I understand how overwhelming it all gets to be- particularly when you have such a large amount of business related things going on and it takes away from your creative time.
We were so lucky to have a cooler Spring this year in SLC but now we’ve sadly hit the heat of July. No more fun outside for a bit.
On a brighter note- yesterday was my birthday and my dear Rick built a Swiss pearwood wall cabinet just for my SB cup collection as a birthday present- so excited to hang it and display your beautiful cups. ♥♥♥
Much love to you and wishing you cool breezes and pitchers of icy beverages galore.
xxooxx
Gabi
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GABI!!!👏👏👏👏 The perfect gift … of the heart! ❌⭕️❌⭕️
Hello Susan,
I think most of us are looking around at our stuff and wondering how to keep it out of the landfill. But I would think you are a bit of a celebrity in your area. What about contacting an archivist or a local gallery? I do hope you find an agent, because I love your art and wont many others to discover you as well.
Susan, thank you for another fun Willard.
Thank you for ALL your stuff. You know we love it and buy it all. Keep putting new old stuff up for sale for us.
Thank you for your continuing art and writing. I cherish everything that you do.
What’s next in mugs?? Perhaps one in the blue sky motif like on your Distilled Genius book…That sky and color are so pretty and would be beautiful on a mug. Still thinking pink? An all pink mug or maybe a summer themed one with that watermelon from this Willard and some pink flowers and some butterflies…
Enjoy your summer. Stay cool. ❤
Peggy did you see the sky, stars, with big yellow moon cup? I have more Queen Elizabeth cups coming… and another July 4th cup because we’re going to be celebrating the heck at 250th Anniversary of the Declaration and I want to be ready!
So excited that you are getting more Queen Elizabeth cups and another July 4th cup and if you ever, ever decide to reissue a cup, I would dearly love to own your Summer tea cup! Summer is my favorite time of the year!
It’s a smaller one, is that okay with you?
Absolutely! I love the small cups as much as the large cups! I just love the Summer design and am especially enjoying the July page you designed for our 2023 calendar. To have that cup would be so fun! I love Summer!
I have the 4th of July mug. Will this next one be different? And yes, I have seen all your mugs and I have 15 cherished mugs so far. I love them all. My husband built me a corner cabinet so I can display them.
Shhhhh…in a whisper…I would live some more..
We love your mugs and hope you’ll continue to make us even more.
Thank you, Susan.
It will be the same … so many write me and say they didn’t get it and want me to make more! Same with Queen Mary!
Susan, Your posts are always a highlight and can brighten even the dullest, hottest or most frustrating day. I adore pink too but sadly, I don’t know any literary agents. I really want someone to help you though because I have been waiting on pins and needles for Enchanted! Good luck!
Pink but no agent! That’s okay!🌸💞🌸💞🌸💞
That’s a big task you’ve set for yourself but the rewards will be so great.
Good luck!
It is a big task! Which is why I asked all of you. Sooner or later the word will be passed and 🙏 then maybe, you just never know, but I had to try!❤️
Talking of film rights…. Is there any news on the film?
No, we go from pandemic, and just when everything is getting back up, we have a strike!
I got a rush of sadness reading this Willard – I felt as if you were saying “Good Bye”. You share so much joy – you make the world a better place. I hope all is ell. Blessings to you.
Not goodbye at all … at least not yet. Thank you so much for being here. I’ve loved every moment of it… hopefully I’ll find a way to keep going!!! I feel fine! I love it . . . but at this time of my life, there’s just too much!❤️
Oh my Susan do I ever relate! I’ve been writing articles, blog posts, newsletters, etc. for four+ decades now. I figure there’s a couple million words (or more) sitting in Word waiting for someone to figure out what to do with them all. And like you I’d really rather not spend a lot of my time sorting all that out. One thing about these Elder Years…you really (really!) do get how precious your time is. And hey-girls just want (need, too) have adequate time for fun! Personally I just keep discovering/finding new ways to spend these precious hours and days and weeks…so yes, feeling quite bewildered about how to sort all this out (which I haven’t actually done yet).
All said, while reading your post I “heard”: Perhaps Susan should contact folks at say Mary Engelbriet or Laura Ashley or such. I mean all your creations: a) really should be available like, forever and b) what you’re describing/needing is or could be pretty big and I’d think perhaps beyond a literary agent?
You are amazing…and like I said your body of work really should be captured and available for all your “future girlfriends”. I just can’t imagine there wouldn’t be some company out there (worthy of representing you) that wouldn’t be interested…like VERY interested…in helping you in turning your creations into something that can be loved and enjoyed for years.
Literary agents have their fingers in so many things, from Publishing to Licensing and Legacy . . . if they don’t know, they often know someone who knows. For example, I could sell it to someone like Hallmark. But I don’t know anyone from Hallmark!😂 Hence, the asking!
So lovely to hear from you Susan and read your latest Willard. Your output over the years has been AMAZING but now you have reached a point where you are acknowledging to yourself and us that it would be really good to have some help to free up your time so you can do what you do best. You have asked and I believe the universe will answer and you don’t need to go seeking because the perfect person will come to you. I hope you and Joe continue to enjoy the summer and all the blessings it brings.
With much love from Ann in Chester 💕
You are so wise Ann. I can’t tell you what relief I felt after asking for help!! I think in my mind I’ve been seeking, but I needed to take that one step further and TELL someone! I didn’t know what to do, and there was the answer! If this doesn’t work, then I go to the next chapter! ❌⭕️❌⭕️
One more thought…perhaps your publisher could make such a contact on your behalf or help you in finding out how to go about this yourself?
That’s part of the problem, Joe and I are the Publishers! Spring Street Publishing is us. So all the work and responsibilities of publishing is ours. That’s why I need a literary agent . . . to find us a publisher. If someone did it for us, it would take half my work load away.❤️
Oh how I wish I was a literary agent with law degree in intellectual property!!! I would toss over everything else to help you. I can identify with all the ideas swirling around in my head that need to come out but No TIME! At 62 it seems like it’s time to construct some sort of exit plan from our little restaurant, celebrating 30 years this month!
But working pays for travel and mortgage,and health care and all the sweet little things….sooo yes something has got to give but lots of thought and planning must go into that. Anything can happen,our plans can get wobbly,etc.. it’s a very interesting time of life to be sure!! We will figure it out…right?
It’s been a Beautiful summer,but I can feel some little Autumn pangs now and then!
Your dresser is lovely. Antiques are the best. Beauty,history,workmanship. .they have it all.
Stay as cool as possible, pray for those in those horrible ” heat domes”
Hugs from N.C.
I wish you were/did, too Kim!!! That would be PERFECT!!! YES, working is what pays for all those little things in life! Hard to let it go if you love it!💖
Hi Susan,
I was so excited to read about your summer! As a newly retired teacher, I need to reinvent myself. I enjoy reading about how you celebrate each day with your walks, books on tape, the ritual of flowers on your windowsill, and time spend with wonderful friends! You are an inspiration to all!
I wanted to warn you about having Lilies in flower arrangements in your home. You probably already know this but if you don’t I wanted you to know that they are lethal to cats. Even a small amount of pollen is extremely dangerous if they get around it. My daughter is a Veterinarian and has warned us of this.
I absolutely love lilies and their wonderful fragrance but never realized their danger to cats until a couple of years ago. Even if one of your girlfriends reads this that didn’t know and has a cat perhaps my warning might help.
Thank you! Always good to get advice!
Dear Susan, It makes perfect sense to do the things only you can do and get someone else to handle all the other stuff.
I fell in love with your art and wit thru lovely stickers and if you are going to reprint lots of things I really want all the stickers. Just sayin’.
I am so inspired by you and the way you spend your days. We are so lucky you take this time to tell us about it.
After years of getting your blog/Willard when it comes out in an email I now depend on Instagram for notice and pull up susanbranch.com. Am I missing some kind of a change?
Anyway good luck on your search.
Maybe someone will have time to find me a sticker manufacturer … like a publisher for books, but for stickers instead. After all, they’re all designed and ready to go!! Try to sign up for the willard again . . . I have a new computer person, and hopefully they have fixed it! You should get it in your mailbox!💞
Susan, good luck with your search for a literary agent, I know you will find just the right person!
What a lovely summery post… I, too, love basil ice cream. A local shop makes it and I’ve used it with home-made apple or berry pies, a subtle flavor. Your recipe has admirably little sugar in it and I’m sure delicious with lemon zest too. I always reduce the sugar in recipes, Americans often love shocking amounts of sugar.
Your photos of the little, normal things that you love in summer is so appealing. Right now in Vermont, we’re reeling from flooding and potentially more to come. The dam 3 miles north of my daughter worried me but seems to be holding. Your comment about this being the coolest summer in the next 20 years is telling. I am so sad for my grandchildren, and everyone else’s!
Your posts always lift my spirits; there is so much beauty surrounding all of us, we just need to enjoy it all in the moment. Thank you, as always.
Yes, hardly any sugar, and when you look at it, practically all veggies and protein!🤣
Ohhhh Sally, the floods, I’m soooo sorry. I would never have expected this to happen to beautiful Vermont. Until I thought of the valleys and the mountains.😒 Global warming . . . I will say it, sucks. Not like we weren’t warned. Do your best. Sending love. xoxoxo
You did a great thing today! You asked for help. Nothing like taking the pressure off and reaching out to friends. I bet you feel better already. I wish I could be your agent but I’m sure there is a better fit out there and I’m sure that person will come knocking. I think reaching out for someone is the perfect idea. It’ll free you up to do what you do. I enjoyed every bit of your post today, thank you and good luck finding an agent.
Barbara Kuzdzal💕
You know what Barbara, I feel the same way. Thank you sooooo much for your support. I’ve been wearing this thing on the back of my mind for years. Didn’t really know it, just the last couple of days I realized why!!! If that person doesn’t show up… I really will have to stop. But I’m 🙏🙏🙏ing … thank you . . . I know it may take a while, but sooner or later I feel confident that word of mouth will kick in and voila!💖
What a surprise this Willard was, and how needed! I’m laid up with a knee injury and this cheered me up so much. That picture of Jack is hysterical! He’s really fixated on that bug, isn’t he? Your outdoor movie night sounds like so much fun! Why don’t more people do that? It reminds me of going to the park for free movies when I was a child. Ah, your stickers! One of my prettiest Christmas candles happened because of them. I picked your prettiest Christmas stickers and stuck them all over an 10-inch white pillar candle. Then I gave it a good coat of Mod Podge. It burned down a long time ago. But I still have it … somewhere. Which leads me to the next thing … Swedish death cleaning! Have you heard of this? I hadn’t either, but apparently it’s a thing. You clean and get rid of everything so your next of kind won’t have to. It’s a good theory, in concept. However, I think most women have a little bit of the hoarder in them. Just like me and my leftover candle. The cleaning I need to do is Swedish “near-death” cleaning, at least for now. Wish I had a scoop of your green ice cream. So refreshing! Enjoy the rest of your summer and stay cool!
We did an outdoor slide show once! Of all our friends from forever! Hung a white sheet from a tree for the screen! Another wonderful evening! And I have friends who’ve decided It’s TOO hard to try and do something with everything in their houses… have decided they will be dead and won’t know and are doing NOTHING!!!!🤣 There is something very attractive about that!😂😂
This is the path I’m following.
👏👏👏
I hope you find the help you need so you can focus on the creative things you love, and that we love receiving from you. I wish I were a literary agent since working with you would be a dream!
I’ve never been a fan of summer, living in the Houston area, but every year is getting worse and worse. The heat and humidity are awful. I’m sorry you’re getting a taste of it up there now. Climate change is so distressing – to say the least.
Just ordered my 2024 calendar. It wouldn’t be a good year if one was missing from my kitchen wall! xo
Perfect word “distressing” … grrr.❌⭕️
Yes to more books! I have my own stack in my entryway and looove it! I’d love to have Winter and Spring books as companion books to Summer and Autumn. Eeks! Love you bunches!! Lori from Washington
I agree. Winter and Spring cookbooks! AND Pancakes 🥞😋
Margot B.
However, Enchanted 🏰 should be finished first. 🤩
I really need to get going. I’d LOVE to do all of it!👏
Susan, I was preparing for you to say, “No more calendars.” Already feeling the loss….but, I would have completely understood. Everything you create is a GIFT. SO So grateful for it ALL .Guess what? Fortunate me, I have all of these books. Treasures! I’m thinking you might need a good archivist AND an agent. I hope someone out there has the best connection for you. In the meantime sending intentions to manifest the best outcome for you. Thank you for this elegant and I do mean ELEGANT post.
I’ve got a pretty good archive, it’s fairly well organized as I’ve been keeping up with it the whole time. I have 10 huge binders filled with the original art, filed by subject (ie Christmas, Girlfriends, Mom, Summer, Courage, Fairy Tales, etc) each piece numbered and easily available on the computer. I’m sooooo glad I didn’t wait to do that now! Would have been a nightmare!🥰
Film rights…now you are talking! A film biography of your life would be great fun.
Someone has rights to the trilogy and has been working to “sell” it … but first the pandemic, and now the strike . . . so . . . we shall see!💞
Hi Susan! I wish you good luck in your search for a literary agent. I just know that the exact right person will find you!!! I believe in serendipity!!!
As for all of your wonderful original artwork, photographs and other creations, I think that there needs to be a Susan Branch Museum on Martha’s Vineyard where it can all be displayed. I am sure that it would be very popular and lots of people, definitely all your Girlfriends will want to visit!!!
I’m glad that you, Joe & your friends are enjoying summer and having FUN despite the heat…90 in the Vineyard?! Yikes!!! Yes, sadly climate has definitely changed! Here in Reno it is going to be 106 on Saturday, and 105 on Sunday. So, for me it means staying indoors with the a/c. My poor husband, who plays violin for a living w/ his string quartet, has a wedding on each day…outdoors, of course!!! (All weddings, no matter the temperature or weather, are always outdoors anymore. And most people don’t think about musicians in their formal black tux suits or long black dresses! Not to mention the effect of extreme heat or cold on their delicate violins, cellos!)
Fortunately, we leave next week for a10 day road trip to the Southern OR Coast and down into N. CA, and to celebrate our anniversary! 💕😊🥂🍾 I am a beach gal, for sure…Love the Pacific Ocean: the sound of the surf, the feel of the sand on my barefeet, and that cool, fresh breeze in my face!!! Truly looking forward to escaping the heat for awhile! We will share a few days in a beach house w/ cousins and visit a few friends along the way. Can’t wait!!!
I hope that you continue to have a wonderful summer! I love seeing your beautiful flowers! Sending my love to you, Joe & Jack!!!
Your friend,
Barbara
Oh, I do feel for your husband. And your care for the beautiful instruments.❤️ And for the bride! The groom and all the guests. I hope they have fans! Happy anniversary . . . have a wonderful trip, I hope it’s foggy and in the 60s!! ❌⭕️
I second your proposal for a Susan Branch Museum on MV! That would be most excellent!
Susan Branch blog posts in a book!? Yippee!! I LOVE that idea!!
Susan, that would be a dream job working for you! Unfortunately, I am not a literary agent, I sincerely hope you get some help soon, cause girl, you really need it! I hope and pray that one of the girlfriends is a literary agent and would like nothing more than to work with and for you!
Hi Susan, so I’ve been wondering about the story you told us of finding the dime next to your Dads grave. Then I read someone told you about service men leaving them. So here is my question. I can see another serviceman finding your dads grave and leaving a dime, but a dime with your dads year of birth!! Really, quite the coincidence. I mean who has a dime in their pocket the exact year as is on the grave. What are your thoughts on it. I’d like to hear what you think. Huggs, Debby
I think he put it there for me. I’ve worn it every day. Hold it in my hand, say little blessings, and love it to pieces. Life is what you think it is, so I decided to BELIEVE. ❌⭕️❌⭕️
A Susan Branch museum, with rotating displays, a gift store, maybe an inn, perhaps? Some smart entrepreneurial women could get together on your behalf and create something wonderful…
I’ve always wanted to buy back Holly Oak and make a little museum out of it ~ wouldn’t that be fun? I could put my charm bracelet there, all my diaries, even the pots and pans I’ve used all my life . . . but all of this means I’d have to quit writing books and calendars… 😒
Yes! Yes! Yes!
Yes….buy back Holly Oak! What a wonderful idea! 50 years from now people just like me will make the pilgrimage to see where your part two began and experience the Vineyard. Just like the Mark Twain House or Beatrix Potters farm. ❤️ I drove by Holly Oak once. Totally enchanting! Wish it was an Airbnb.
Wouldn’t that be a fun project!!! I’d love it. But the lady who lives there likes it!
Is that a Just Joey rose in your vase? I have one in my yard, and it has the most divine fragrance! (Sadly, I just returned from two weeks’ vacation and missed them at their best … I’ll have to wait for the next flowering.)
Yes, Just Joey … I’ve never found a rose with better health or fragrance, it blooms forever, it’s true beauty!💞
Dear Susan, it is wonderful that you are thinking about your legacy work. That’s what it’s called when you review your life, accomplishments, and your unique gifts to the world. Your vast array of work NEEDS to be preserved so it will continue to be available and to be enjoyed. There will always be an audience for your art and writings. The world needs that joy and light of yours! Since you don’t have children (the human kind), your work IS your babies, your children, and never underestimate the positive impact you have made with these creations. Thank you for having the foresight to realize you need support to preserve your legacy AND to help you now while you are still actively creating. Way to go, girlfriend! Hugs and peace to you from Diane
Pure support… is why I love you girls. Always been this way. ❌⭕️❌⭕️
I can vision The S.Branch Museum and Resource Center…
and I will see and raise Texas and AZ temps
here in Newer Mexico easily.
EEEEK! 🔥🔥🔥🍧
She was correct as Arnie were traveling out West during that week! Ahh, but it was dry heat. 😂
Sure wish I had experience with this. What a fun second career. I would only have one client! LOL! Like Liz, I’ve been going through my teaching stuff in preparation for retiring (someday!). It’s a daunting task. I’ve been doing give-aways at school. And I just had a yard sale with a friend. Also, like Liz, I’d gladly buy more of your stickers, etc. haha <3
Would be fun to work with you… but it definitely needs experience. Someone in the publishing business. Someone who knows more than me. Some creative happy person! 💖
Yes! There must be someone like that out there!
Susan, I do understand your predicament. Somehow we all spend years collecting and collecting and buying and buying…and then we hit our 70’s and 80’s and we don’t know what to do with all we have collected and bought through the years.
For 15 years, I was a successful Longaberger basket consultant. I have award baskets, sample baskets, stock baskets, baskets, baskets and more baskets, holiday baskets. I don’t know what to do with them all.
A yard sale is a huge task and at my age, daunting. I give them to every serviceman to comes to the house…my electrician, the A/C serviceman, etc.
Believe me…I fully support you in you need to simplify your life.. We Girlfriends love your books and your artwork. Do what you need to do to make you and Joe happy. You and Joe need more committed time for each other. Life is short…and getting shorter!
When I was 39, I had only 1 box with original art in it. No blog, nothing was digitized … piece of cake, light as a feather! Now I have something like 18. In an old bank safe in the Barn. This rolling stone has gathered a TON of moss!
I’ve always loved and envied your wide windowsill! My house doesn’t have any, not even the kitchen. Just a flat window. Maybe when I get my kitchen redone (near future), they can somehow incorporate a windowsill for me over my sink? I want just a little ledge to put all my “pretties”, including little vases with flowers from my garden.
I totally agree with you about furniture! I would much rather buy a piece of older furniture that’s made of real wood instead of the crap/fiberboard they use now for furniture.
I smiled when I saw your stack of books. Aren’t they lovely? I have a small collection of them in my spare bedroom, on top of a vintage dresser. I was just re-reading, “Summer” today. 🙂
Love to you, Joe and Jack…xoxo
You can ask! You never know, and I promise, you will say thank you out loud for the rest of your life!😂
I really wish I was a literary agent because I just know it would be lovely to work with you. I have crossed my fingers that you will find the perfect person to be your literary agent. I ordered two wall calendars like I always do. I need one at my desk so that I can write all my important stuff on it and one for my wall near my bed so I wake up every morning and see it. Loved reading the new blog and even though we have never met, I love being one of your girlfriends!! ❤
And I love having you Debra!❌⭕️
It sounds like it could be two jobs—literary agent and personal assistant ✨ There are websites where you can hire staff that works remotely to do administrative-type things. If physical items are an issue, maybe hiring someone you trust or asking a few family/friends to help over a set time period like a week to organize/move/etc?
Always, since the beginning, when someone has found me . . . instead of me hunting them down, the relationship works out beautifully … because they already know, and since I’m not the best salesperson, it’s wonderful not to have to convince anyone! I think I really do need professional help… 😘
I agree that the best relationships and situations happen through synchronicity or when you feel excited/inspired and just follow that thread 💖
I’ve always had the best luck with it! And met such nice people!
I’ll pray you find the perfect literary match who loves SB creations as much as we do! I’m sitting w/my SB summer cup looking at the same sweet stack of SB books topped w/a heart paperweight in my living room. Treasures-all of them! Can’t get enough of your creations!!
💖🌼
Interesting…. I have been wishing you would publish your Willard blogs…all of them!! To escape the “news” and just feel HAPPY I have been re-reading all your blogs and always absentmindedly forget which one I read last. How nice it would be to have them in book format to enjoy! You got this!!!
Also in Distilled Genius where you have added places for our own quotes? There aren’t many left like all the beautiful, helpful ones you have in there so…I started writing things that my 3 grandchildren have said in their growing up years. The book will be passed on to them and hopefully they will enjoy it and the memories of them.
What a great idea to print your blogs! Sign me up now!
Much love and joy through these hot days!
Judy in Wisconsin
What a wonderful idea! You will make them feel wonderful!!!❤️
I wish I knew how to be a literary agent because I would be knocking on your door right now! Your walks with Joe, your art and writing, your travels and family and friends are all working together to keep you young. Still patiently waiting for your next book! I watch a gardener on YouTube and he always ends his video by saying, “In a world full of hate, be a light.” You, Susan, are a light! Happy Summer!
👏👏👏👏💡💡💡💖
Looking at the photo of your creations spread out reminds me how much I love your stickers! No others quite like them.
You deserve to retire from “work”! Just do what you enjoy. 🤗
It’s been an interesting weather pattern in the Midwest this July!
Glad to see your blog post with all of the great antique and flea market finds… it’s one of the best parts of warmer weather. The days fly by fast, so thanks for capturing a part of your world to share with us as always.
I’m no help on the organizational part…but I still have and use some of your stickers & scrapbook paper! I bought multiple sets way back in what…the 1980s? 1990s? Still love looking through your Christmas books & the original Heart of the Home. Thanks for all the joy you’ve given us throughout the years & heres to many more years for all of us!
~Debbie
Dear Dear Susan
I So hope someone will know the Perfect literary agent for you. 🙏
I am in Love with pink right now. I’m hoping to see even more of it when I get to the East Coast Monday!
So glad you found the Beautiful dresser. Do enjoy!!!
Magical news here…after trying for 5 years my Dear Daughter is finally pregnant!!! And it’s a Girl!!!! She and my Dear God son in law are such a Sweet couple!!! They have been through a lot so we are Very Very Thankfull…4 months along now. 🙏🙏🙏
Love you to the Moon and Back
Thank you SO Much for all you do for me daily!!!
Lillian 💗💗💗
A BABY!!! Congratulations!!!😭👼👼👼👼👼👼👼👼👼
I know good things are coming your way to help make it easier…you need Time to enjoy the precious “little things”! If there’s such a thing as Karma, it’s headed your way. All the joy you have brought to others ( and much of it a gift, like Willard) should come back to you 10 fold🥰 Thank you for enriching my life and be patient and picky🤣🥰 the right match will come along 🥰🌞🌻🌼🌺🌷
Thank you darling!💞
HI Sue, I always love your posts, they bring HAPPY to my days. Now, if you were to put all your Willards in a book and all your blogs in a book- yes Mam i would be first in line to buy those books……always. I have the old paperback version of Willards you published years ago, and i love that book. PINK-yes always pink….the best of colors…..just a soothing and sweet color that makes you smile.
Love you and your work! Sorry, I wish i was a literary agent myself…..so i could help you………..would be a work of love. Have a wonderful week.
Sweet words, thank you Kathy!
There’s an actress in Massachusetts who portrays women in history, including Deborah Sampson. I’ve heard that, plus Christa McAuliffe production (some were on zoom during the pandemic). Excellent performances!
bu.edu/articles/2022/judith-kalaora-bring-history-to-life/” rel=”nofollow ugc”>bu.edu/articles/2022/judith-kalaora-bring-history-to-life/
Love that! Boston does such good things with history!
Susan! I have many of your stickers…but I’ve never seen those Halloween stickers! How can I get my hands on them?? Also, those lilies are GORGEOUS and it looks like they are teaching toward you to pose with you! LOL
XO,
Kim
Oh it would be so wonderful if you had time for more of your creative pursuits. I have loved every single thing that you have offered us over the years. Books, fabric, calendars, mugs, STICKERS!, scrapbooking papers and albums! I wish that I knew an editor to recommend but, alas, I do not. I know that someone will come through for you. Crossing my fingers for you! Happy summer, Susan!
Thank you Jean! xoxoxo
Oh gosh! So much to think about in this post. I do think you should get another agent, it’s time for all the fun things again! You definitely should focus on just being an artist. I hope the perfect agent turns up quickly. I wish I was one! I would love to work with you and promote your gorgeous artwork and creative mind! I am so excited for this new chapter to open up with all things Susan Branch! Keep cool and enjoy the rest of the summer, and let’s hope the news isn’t correct about future summers, but it sure feels like they could be correct. We all just need to keep on being positive and hopeful. I have hope, I hope you all have hope too! 🙂
A Sweet Detail –
Susan, did you notice the little boy in the center of your antique sale photo?
It looks like he’s sitting patiently on a stool while he guards a ship’s portrait.
I wonder what the story is …
He looks like he’s being so patient, waiting for his mom . . . I think that is her looking at him, with the books in her hand!
Congrats on the dresser find…love it. Hope you find an agent to help you so you can do more of what you love!
Hi Susan, Just a thought, what if you chose an author/artist whose work you ad mire not only for content but for the way the work is promoted. Perhaps you could contact them and ask who represents them.
As always, thank you for the lovely blog.
Linda Z.
A book called “Home” sounds perfect! A book of your blog postings, as well!! Just ordered calendars.
I know someone will come forward as your literary agent 🙂
Did you, by any chance, see the Bond & Grace presentation through The Enchanted Book Club? Three women started a company that republishes classic works with art and commentary from scholars–quite beautiful! Their first art novel was The Secret Garden!
I did! I love beautiful books . . . I think we all do! I’m so happy people are doing that!
You bet! My weakness is beautiful books!!! (I’m also a retired librarian…)
Glad you saw that presentation 🙂
Take good care, and stay cool!
Dear Susan,
Absolutely love the “new” dresser! I am hunting for a shorter version that we need in our extra bedroom. Lots of local estate sales to scour. Definitely need to try the basil ice cream – it looks delicious! Happy you are keeping cool – here in Paso Robles we are grateful for the shade trees around the house that make such a difference in this heat. Best wishes in finding an agent to help you organize!
Dear Susan,
I was reading through all these comments hoping that someone has found you a connection. I don’t doubt it will happen. That’s the beauty of your life. You manifest it all. It might take some time, but I have no doubt it will happen.
I also agree with all the people above regarding a Susan Branch Museum on the Vineyard. That’s ideal. Then people will cross the Atlantic to visit YOUR home. Re-purchasing Holly Oak is a brilliant idea to house your life’s work. I know some people seem concerned thinking that this is like a goodbye, but it doesn’t seem like that to me. I turn 49 next month, and I’m often the youngest in my creative circles. My spinning and fiber groups in Monterey, Carmel, and Aromas are full of retired women, and I find it totally inspiring and refreshing hearing them talk about the late stage of their lives. The other day, they were talking about whom they want to leave fiber-related belongings to after they pass, and rather than be horrified or sad, it was an uplifting and motivating conversation.
I relate to wanting to hand over reins in order to be able to continue creating. I had to stop washing my sheep wool and started driving it down to Morro Bay for processing (and a fun day trip). I was spending all my time picking vm off it and washing it that I wasn’t spending my precious time actually creating anything with it. It’s made a huge difference in my fiber art.
I’m so excited that you are eager to get back to Enchanted. When we met you at Apple Hill in SLO for the 1st chapter, it was a dream come true. The book sounds marvelous. So does the book form of your blog. I read it during different times of the year and when I am feeling overwhelmed by life, teaching, and the current issues the world faces. You are a constant source of comfort in so many lives.
I’m so glad you are prioritizing your own. Put the oxygen mask on yourself first before putting it on others because that’s how we can be of service to others. When we are taking care of ourselves.
Sending you so much love and a cool breeze from Aromas, CA.
Yes! I relate immediately! It IS uplifting… it’s part of a wonderful life!❤️❤️❤️
Dear Susan,
I read this Willard with great interest because I have been retired for a few years now and I have similar questions for myself. I don’t have all of my answers yet but I’m sure they will come to me at some point. I have several binders of family letters written by my grandparents who were missionaries . I have read them all and they are so interesting, so I’m hoping that a family member will be the keeper of these memories for future generations. The letters are all over 100 years old.
I’m sure that your questions will be answered in time. Enjoy your life as you have been doing, it’s such a joy read your adventures. Keep it up!!
You are so lucky to have all those family goodies. I have a few things too, family history is so interesting!❤️
Perhaps you could work towards leaving your home to your future girlfriends by arranging it to become a museum filled with all of your many creations! Something like Beatrice Potter’s home! No clue how you would go about doing that but it would most likely create more tourism for Martha’s Vineyard!
I always wanted to buy back Holly Oak for that purpose!
Pajamas!???!!! I want some S.B. jammies!!!! ❤️ I can’t wait to hear who shows up to be your Literary Agent!!!
Ha ha, me too!
Hello Susan, Hello Girlfriends. hope everyone had a fun 4th of July, i know we did …. fireworks and BBQ included. the peeps are doing fine, getting feathered and growing like weeds. hopefully by next the end of next month we can put them out into the chicken yard. whew it has been hot here … 100+ and today it is 100 degrees with tomorrow getting even hotter. UGH i am really beginning to dislike summer, at least the hot temps. we do not have an air conditioner, only ceiling fans which help keep it cool but not like an air conditioner would. i wish i knew some literary agents to help you but in this part of Oregon there are none to be had. but i can sympathize with you … we are having to catalog and organize my FIL’s things for selling, donations, give away and or throw out. he fell and injured his back July 5th and we learned he cannot stand upright on his own, walk or use his hands. to put it bluntly he cannot stand up, walk or use his hands to do anything, a nurse has to feed him daily. he was in the ICU and was finally moved to room in the neurological-orthopedic ward. the doctors have begun his physical therapy, but are very iffy about his being able ever walk or stand again. he underwent 2 surgeries on his back and from what we have been told, FIL may be in rehab 6-12 months and he may be put in a wheelchair the rest of his life which means he will have to be put into a home. so we are making lists of what goes, what will sell and what can be donated. its a mess, and we have to find a new home for his dog, there is no way he can care for him now but first we have to re-train the dog and get rid of the bad habits FIL taught him. so we are busy for now. but i can understand as when i see what we have to catalog and organize the things in his home, i really have to wonder where all that stuff came from. i think i would rather sit and organize your things, the books, Willards and so on. i would find that so much more enjoyable than FIL’s things. well i had better get hopping, get the sprinklers going and i may just sit out there and water splattered on me while sprinkling the lawns. stay cool everyone, lots of watermelon, ice cream, iced tea and ice water. take care everyone. hugs ….. 😀
Summer isn’t my favorite either. I started hoping for an early fall this year!! Oh my goodness Pat, I’m so sorry for the heavy responsibilities with your FIL… praying he will get better. We never had air-conditioning here until about 10 years ago. We started with a window unit, just for one room, and I can’t say how heaven that was. Close the doors and LIVE in there! Now we have 5! Joe has to take them out every winter, put them back every summer, but with our humidity . . . that’s the way it is! Go get one! For wherever you spend the most time. You deserve it!💞
thank you Susan, the doctors are pretty certain he may never walk again, but he needs the help of caregivers and we do not qualify in the category. we cannot lift him should he fall over and if we tried we are afraid we would injure him further. a home would be best for him. believe me i plan to get a window unit and stick in the kitchen and use the ceiling fans to circulate the air around to cool us off. right now i am really beginning to dislike summer, and like you i am hoping for an early fall, i may go check the almanac and see what they have to say. next week is back to 50’s week, and of course it is getting hotter….UGH!!! well get out the poodle skirt, a light cotton shirt and polish the saddle shoes but keep a pair of sandals handy. take care and stay cool. hugs ….. 😀
Clutter,it is my middle name.I’m like my Scottish grandmother.I love my things where I can look at them and enjoy them.My friends sometimes don’t understand my collections! I just say remember the pharaohs,that’s how I live.lol I know I can’t take it with me so I will enjoy it. If someone admires something I say take it ,I have another.lol Our homes and possessions say so much about us.I love my home and if others don’t then ,no big deal ,you don’t live here.I don’t have need of an assistant but I can understand your plight.I’m 71 and I’m constantly on the hunt,I love china,furniture and house keeping.I love your new dresser purchase.Enjoy the rest of your summer,and enjoy everyday .
❌⭕️❌⭕️
I raise a glass 🥃 to that Mary!!
Dear Susan – I want to reiterate that it would be WONDERFUL if you could bring your ENCHANTED book to fruition! Your photography, drawings and written memories of your trips to the UK are a delight! I am a big fan of that island and have made many trips there myself. It is fun to also accompany you and Joe on your adventures. You capture the magic of those countries beautifully. I am hoping (for all your fans sake) that you can complete the book soon. Best wishes!
I hope you will consider donating your collection to a university or museum. I have zero experience in this world, but I hope you find an agent or attorney who can help you!
Dear Susan, I wish I could help, I know it’s daunting to look back at your life’s work and see a sea of paper and paintings. Here in Maine we’re fortunate to have the Maine Women Writers Collection at the University of New England, and other libraries that collect Maine materials. But an archive or library like that, where you are, would surely want to house your papers and original artwork for your books. If you can’t (or don’t want to) sell them, you can donate them. An artist friend of mine is donating a lot of her papers to the Archives of American Art at the Smithsonian. I also like the mission of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, but I don’t know if they accept papers. If you know a reputable used book dealer you could ask them about how to go about selling your papers en masse, to keep everything together, perhaps someone in Boston like Brattle Books… these are just thoughts for you to ponder, if they would help. I hope you find a good agent, and your time is your own again, to paint and write to your heart’s content. Thank you for making your beautiful work. It’s meant a great deal to me, over the years. Still does! Love from here, always. xxoo Sarah
Hi Sarah, I was kind of hoping to get them in a place where they would continue to be used. I’m pretty much open to all ideas, and love hearing from everyone!
Lovely post! I’m pretty sure you will have to do more work on finding and agent than it sounds like you want to do. I have a fiend who resorted to self-publishing because she exhausted the agent route. Her experience is they rarely come to you, you have to seek them out. And Lord knows, it DOES take time! Most of us Girlfriends appear to have made or are still making our livings in less than the “big business” circles where agents are most common. However there is a an Association of American Literary Agents, you might think of contacting them or a union of them within Massachusetts. They take, I believe, at least 15% of your earnings for the work they help you sell. My friend found they do not come in expensively, especially for lesser known works. I wish you well; it seems you have many ideas!
My publisher, Little Brown found me originally, so I didn’t have an agent for the first 3 books . . . and I haven’t had one for the last 4! In between, for the other 9, I did have one ~ so I understand the benefits for doing it both ways! Thank you for all the ideas Lee!❤️
Well, Susan, it looks your phenomenal success has led to your current predicament! I don’t have any contacts that could help with a literary agent, unfortunately. But now that you have asked for help, I’m convinced it will come. I have been following you since “Heart of the Home” and treasure your beautiful books! The girlfriends have some great suggestions, i.e contacting Mary Engelbret and the Susan Beach Museum. Good luck and thank your for sharing your interesting life and books and art with us.
You are listening now to one of my favorite authors – Amy Harmon. If you end up liking A Girl Called Samson, I hope you’ll read these others. I think they are 5 star books for sure!
Harmon, Amy – What the Wind Knows*****, Where the Lost Wander*****, From Sand and Ash*****, The Unknown Beloved****, A Girl Called Samson****
Another of my favorite authors is Olivia Hawker:
Hawker, Olivia – One for the Blackbird, One for the Crow*****, The Ragged Edge of Night****, The Rise of Light****, The Fire and the Ore*****
I either read the hard copy books, but recently I am enjoying Audible. The readers are phenomenal.
Love your blogs!
Dear Susan – I am sure that a literary agent is out there, will find you, and help you ! You are SO SPECIAL – and can’t wait to hear what is in store for you. I kind of felt the same way when I retired from being a middle school librarian…like “what’s next?”. Since retiring I have found ways to volunteer and enjoy helping people learn about all that is available at our new, beautiful public library. Everything will fall into place…look at how wonderful your life has been and what you have accomplished. The BEST is yet to be ! Hugs !
❌⭕️❌⭕️So sweet Ann!
Good Saturday morning sweet Susan. I am always excited to see a new Willard in my inbox and you never disappoint. I just put some tiny hydrangeas in little vases on the kitchen windowsill. The other occupants of the sill are changed seasonally. If I could figure out how to I would send you photos of the current residents. Pink is the color this summer – Barbie movie coming out (they created a shortage of pink paint).
I don’t know any literary agent, but I can pray for God to connect you with the oerfect match. Your original art – you may want to consider waterproof, acid proof, fire proof storage. I trust it is insured.
Enough business chat. Thank you for years of friendship, inspiration and FUN!
I did put it all into acid free storage envelopes and then boxes and in a fireproof safe! And if something horrible happened, it’s all scanned!❌⭕️
A most interesting Willard, as always. Looking forward to the new calendars.
It’s interesting that it is hotter than “normal” where you are. Here in your old stomping grounds (Long Beach) it’s been the coolest summer I can remember! No a/c needed so far. Wonderfully cool night breezes. Even in Whittier where it is much hotter, it is a “nice” heat, not the usual blazing heat of summer. I just got my electric bill and the usage was down by half!
And last winter was so delightfully cold! You know how we are always in shorts on Thanksgiving and Christmas – not last year! The first of this year had so much wonderful rain. Just went to Big Bear and all of the dry lakes are now blissfully full! So thankful!
Cool summers, cold winters, full lakes! Perfect!
Hi Susan! Don’t faint! It’s actually me! I read ALL your Willards (not on Instagram . . yet!) But do keep up best I can. LOVE my QE II and Santa mugs, but the way. But about literary agents!! I am at EXACTLY the same spot with needing to find HELP!! I have all of Gene’s art to find homes for, and. . . I am an absolute hermit in going through my 54 journals!! (That sounds familiar, I’m sure!) and hope to finish reading, taking notes by end of summer; and then getting into outline, theme, etc. by the end of this year, and next year . . hopefully . . . writing the book. BUT. . . I need an agent, too. I talked with our publisher of Gene’s art/pencil drawing books in Southern Cal about this. A woman who worked for them (was the publisher for awhile, I think) and with whom I interacted there a few times — real sharp, now lives in Washington state and is freelancing as an agent. I’ll get in touch with her and find out what she does, and let you know. If you want to interact with me more on this, send an email to GfranksArt@gmail.com or text me at 4797395563. All the best! I SO know the feeling of wanting to just write and paint. I have our first children’s book sitting here waiting for me to get to the business stuff. I just can’t do it right now. You are such an inspiration! You do everything in order and neat and tidy! I’m all over the place. But . . . moving forward (like a snail!!) but at least in the right direction.! Jane xoxoxo
One little step at a time Jane! I’m just waiting to see what happens! 54 journals, what a monumental job!!! But isn’t fun doing all that remembering? And feeling so silly sometimes about how young and (for me) idiotic I was! Good luck Jane and keep in touch and let’s see what happens!!❤️
I know you have lots of great creative things but we are all so thankful for you sharing your incredible wisdom, talents and encouraging words. I am always grateful for another dose!
Susan, I have to tell you how much I love Willard! I get excited when I see his name in my inbox! I wish I knew a literary agent who could help you. And, I think you also need a personal assistant, as lots of what you talked about needing help with would be outside the realm of literary agent unless you were their only client! Good luck, and be sure to, let us know how it’s going.
I will Julie! Thank you!
Susan, also your Home for Christmas book, too. That one is one of my favorites.
Susan, I love your artwork – your books, your calendars, your stickers….in fact, you had me at stickers 20+ years ago! I discovered you in a scrapbook store and bought all the Susan Branch stickers they had. And I’ve loved you ever since! Your artwork makes me smile and always lifts my spirits. Sometimes I just stand in front of my calendar and soak in the beauty and positiveness of it. Thank you for brightening our world!
Hi Susan!:) Just wanted to concur with other comments I’ve read here, about how precious your stickers are! I’ve particularly missed being able to get your birthday and Christmas stickers..they’re designed with such sweet attention to detail, ..every time I enclose a b-day or xmas envelope with them, I always get compliments and questions about where I found them.. because you truly can’t find anything like them today:( I’ve been lucky to find a few of your vintage stickers online..but they are rare and scarce indeed!
I know you have a very tight and loving network of friends here online and on the island, and I’m just sure an eager literary agent will find their way to you:)
Thanks for caring enough to spread light in such a plethora of meaningful little ways, that reaches so far and touches so many.
It’s needed more than ever:)
Hugs from Oregon,
Tanya:)
OH I’m ‘wishin and hopin and prayin’ that you find that certain someone to help you “edit” all you amazing art work. I started following you when your stickers, scrapbook papers, etc. were for sale in craft stores. I stockpiled as much as I could and then they disappeared! ANGST! I still have a few that I use for only special occasions or for special people but oh my, HOW I WOULD LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these all to come back into publication! At 81 years I know I would not be doing all the craft things I use to but I love including a sticker or saying in a letter or on an envelope, a gift bag, oh yes! Started 40+ years ago following you and have been in love with your art ever since. Lord, please hurry and send someone Susan’s way; I know you will pick out just the right person.
I’m resting after a long, busy day. The Lovely did lots of planting, outside cleaning between rain showers, moving his office stuff up to our bedroom in the loft. So excited, our “Bonus” daughter and her 3 almost grown kids will fly in from Minnesota to Bangor on Tuesday afternoon. The boys sleep in the great room on the 2 sofas. One is a second hand LLBean in light blue brushed denim. It undoes its self into a comfy queen sized bed which is flat on the floor. Last time it was used was when they were here in Maine two summers ago. Lots of eating goes on late night with the 2 boys. I know that, because when I opened the Bean Bed, it was full of shriveled up Food! Now, if I’d been used to big teen aged boys, I’d have known it would be “foodish” in there. The other one sleeps on our long, very comfy sofa, with the back cushions out. Lots of food under those cushions as well, but some is Tom’s, as we often use our trays and eat in front of the TV. We are so looking forward to seeing them again. They flew to Tampa this past December….Wow, do those boys shoot up!!
Speaking of Journals….we call them Log Books in this household of Sailors…..I have dozens just about our life in Maine! More in Tampa on our many trips roaming all over N. America in our various campers. So…..When I was dusting the stack of them on a side table, one flopped open. It says “The Building of the House and Other Things.” June 17, 1997 to November 1, 1997.
I wrote a quote from a character in Colin Dexter’s Last Bus to Woodstock, which I was reading at the time.
“We all sit and salivate over our own prose, and we kid ourselves that it’s bloody marvelous.”
Under that I wrote….
“Knowing what I’ve written may be bloody awful doesn’t diminish the bloody wonder of the process. Like the sawdust in our new house, these works may be swept away, but, like sawdust, they are the inevitable result of the work I’ve done rebuilding or maybe building Myself.”
1997 followed a rough mental patch for me. This made me think of you, Dear Lady, and your early time on Martha’s Vineyard. Writing is the best way to make our lives clear to Us!! At least it has been so for me and Thee.
Thank you for all the life affirming, beauty you so generously give to others.
Debbie in very wet soggy Maine
Tip I’ve seen for bugs: apparently they’re scared of dragonflies, so if you wear a dragonfly broach/pin they don’t bug you. Might be cuter than a towel, haha.
What a great idea to hire a Literary Agent!!! I’ll be praying God sends you just the right person!!! Great post as always💜. I REALLY miss your gorgeous stickers you published. I’m still trying to find ones that are so “perfect”💜. Thanks for sharing your life and talents with all of us!!! Donna from Oregon
I would love to see a book just with your amazing photographs! Your artistic talent comes through so strongly in your photos! I have taken screen shots of many of them over the years, and created a Photo Slideshow that I sometimes just let run on and on, on my computer screen, to watch when I’m listening to a podcast or something. And, I would love to see a book just of your house – like Mary Engelbreit’s “Home Sweet Home” — it would be wonderful!
Susan-Just as I was opening the new Willard I was thinking how great it would be to have all of your “Willard’s” in a book! If you never gave us one more creative thing we would still have so much of you and your work to be thankful for. You really do warm our hearts♥️.
However 😁 in this case I say more is more! Wishing and hoping the perfect agent finds you!
Susan,
I have just read all the responses to your request for an agent…I know we’ve never met but I’ve always been touched that so many of us share your interests and your love of all things home. I feel sure there are many besides me who haven’t been able to attend a book signing or the picnics in England and have followed you for 30+ years or more. So I just had this picture of all of us being little lightening bugs twinkling all across this land and even across the pond…showing the way for the next right steps for you…and I know you’ll know cause the magic is with you! We may never meet in person but that’s OK cause I know you tend our hearts and I trust that we tend yours!
Oh, Beautifully said, Laura. May I add, Ditto?
Debbie in “it’s finally Summer” Maine
What a beautiful letter! 🦋
Good morning Sue. I am just getting a chance to read your blog this (Sunday) morning. Life has been a little hectic here for me so now I’m sitting and quiet and it is lovely. It has been crazy hot and muggy here. We have the air cranking and it’s weird because my house is kind of dark. If it’s overcast outside it almost feels like its a cold rainy day…then I open the door and Woof!!! the heat hits me in the face. My garden is chugging along. Lots of maintenance now. Weeding and dead heading. Between the heat and the rain it is hard to keep up with it. My poor sweet peas are not so hot this year. I don’t know why. maybe its the heat. There are lots of yucky aphids all over them as well. I have tried a few remedies but so far nothing is really working.
It looks like you are having a wonderful summer so far. I love the idea of a movie night outside. I love the picture of you standing next to the Lillies. You looks so pretty! We do the same thing as you, early morning and late evening for outside activities.
I love the dresser you found at the yard sale. We have the same situation here. Bill’s dresser is the one he had when he was a little boy. It’s a nice hardwood maple but very juvenile looking. It even has the words Rick + Sue inside of a heart carved into the bottom of one of the drawers! Rick is Bill’s brother. So funny! Mine is from the 1960’s. I think it was picked off of the front lawn of a house in Long Island back in the early 80’s. We finally switched it out with a dresser that was my mom’s and its pretty, but it’s kind of broken and the drawers don’t slide in an out easily. We have been married for almost 40 years and you would think I would have a matching bedroom set by now but we don’t. It’s ok…used to bother me a lot more than it does now. I’m going to paint the dresser I had before my mom’s and give it to my daughter Jess for her baby’s room. It’s wide and will be perfect for a changing table. Some new drawer pulls and I think it will look cute. ( why didn’t I paint it for myself to use all these years??? who knows…)
I ‘m sure you’ll find a literary agent. I think the girlfriends are a good place to start. I feel like you are good at putting your intentions out into the universe and making your dreams happen. So many wonderful things you have created over the years..I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Have a lovely Sunday and stay cool.
Your Friend Always,
Mary
Hey Mary, You could try ordering some ladybugs. They think aphids are yummy, but not sure if they do well in very hot conditions?
I hope you find that agent who can help organize, preserve and promote your amazing body of work … and get that movie made. I have followed you, your life story and your art for a very long time. This has added quality to my life. I hope you know how much you are appreciated
Susan,
With all the traveling you have done in the USA and the UK, your Travel diaries with all your information are the best books. You include recipes and artwork, nature and of course stories. A book on New England alone would be grand. I enjoy the blog and look forward to Willard.
Best of luck finding that inner peace.
Nancy R.
About 10 years ago, a party store in our town had your stickers, and I bought every single one. I haven’t been able to find them locally since so I parcel them out very carefully. A recipient has to be a really beloved person to get one! Or two!