There is so much going on right now. I have so much to tell you, it’s ridiculous to think I can get it into one Willard! So I will just start here, wing it . . . do as much as possible, stop, and continue SOON, with the rest of it. Okay? Please say yes! MUSICA
We have to start with this . . .
Waaaah. Know what I mean? I’ve been feeling, as our Girlfriend Kat said on Instagram, like a “soggy rag doll” for a week now. You too? Just so not fair to lose the adorably unique Diane Keaton.😔 We grew up together, she was our Girlfriend! Her eccentric, timeless style, astonishing charm, and LAUGHTER . . . I wasn’t ready for this ONE LITTLE BIT. 😪
It’s been hard . . . losing our old friends, But before I go on, let me tell you my news, and then I’ll tell you what I’m going to do to make myself happier, because it includes you.💞 And we will have MONTHS to plan. We need something new to put on our calendars! 
So, you know Joe and I were planning to leave on a cross-countrybook-tour next month, right? Well, in a nutshell, we had to cancel because the newly revised Christmas Book was not going to be here in time. I was reluctant to admit it, almost went anyway, but it seemed crazy, going to talk to a twinkle lighted bookstore with everyone in snow clothes, and SUMMER. BUT, it turned to good news because it has given me the gift of TIME. And, to cut to the chase, I’ve rescheduled the Launch of my cross-country tour for next Spring . . . when we will have BOTH books when everyone will be waiting for Summer ANYWAY! And it will all begin with
SPRINGTIME IN CALIFORNIA!…
For those of you who remember the wonderful book signings we had under a tent in the warm sunshine at the Apple Farm in San Luis Obispo, you’ll be happy to know the launch venue we found is owned and managed by the same person who was a partner in the Apple Farm! It’s called Sycamore Springs Hotel and Resort ~ and they have a “Secret Garden” that holds 
300 guests! A Secret Garden!🪴🪴🪴 How perfect! And we’re invited to go there!👏 It’s a very different sort of place than the Apple Farm, out in the country, very close to Avila Beach, around the corner from the Avila Barn🎃, between Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo. You can click on it and read about it, but there are lots of places to stay in this area in case the hotel fills up. It’s all so good, so serendipitous, so perfect, I’m beside myself! This is how I know it was meant to be!👏 And from there, we’re OFF, to bookstores across the country, to meet and greet with all of YOU! Not only will I get to see YOU, you’ll get to see each other! The most fun is always had, as many of you know, in the line waiting to get a book signed! 💖
Can you tell I’m excited? Well, because that’s not even all! I 
think it will be Amazing if, when we get together at our different bookstores, we have a true celebration and find a hat, or belt, some glasses, or full skirt, or baggy pants, or a vest and a tie, and dress up in our own versions of Diane Keaton!!! If not for anything else, for the photos!!! For the memories!! For all she gave us.♥️
“Memories are simply moments that refuse to be ordinary.” 💝 Diane Keaton
And as a celebration of the extraordinary privilege of LIFE!💞 Wouldn’t she just LOVE this? We’ll take a ton of pictures! And one more thought, I think we should all learn the words to the songs, “Seems Like Old Times,” and “You Don’t Own Me.” Because we’re going to have a GIRLFRIEND Party! We might want to sing! We have some years to celebrate! No one has to be perfect, no one even has to do it! You are free to BE YOURSELF! That’s how Diane would have wanted it! And me too… As she said herself,
“What is perfection anyway? It’s the death of creativity ~ that’s what I think.” 💖 Diane Keaton
Just embrace my favorite mantra “Good Enough” and do what makes you happy, and COME for the FUN! Bring your best friend, your mom, your sisters, bring everybody! My passion, as you probably have guessed, has always been the profound connection I’ve felt with all of you, from the beginning, all these years, even before I met you! Look at all we’ve been through together! And I think these celebrations will seal the deal as I show you how happy I’ve been to share this planet with you! WHAT A TREAT! (I’m fine, in case you’re wondering . . . Just, you know, emotional!) Details for our party, as they come clearer, will be everywhere I can think of to put them, but certainly here on the Blog. I should have it ALL figured out by February at the latest. I’m trying for as early in April as possible, maybe my birthday on the 12th, as my first choice, and luv-lee May as second choice. Come! Life can always use some perking up! I’ll make us name tags so we recognize each other! 💞
Now, this little church! You know I love houses? I wrote about how I decorated with them in the “wood room” of my old house? That house painting was there, and the little green-roofed cottage I found in Ireland. And now look what I just found ~ this little votive-holding church ~ isn’t it perfect? I thought you’d like one too ~ but I’m pretty sure we’ll sell out of them too quickly, and not sure we can get more before Christmas . . . It’s made of metal, & has windows on all sides for the light to shine through, is perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas, year-round really, and it fits in with all my little treasures. My dear friend Lowely remodeled her 19th century house on the island these last few months, and guess what? SHE GAVE ME HER OLD FIREPLACE MANTLE, so
even though I don’t have a fireplace here, I will have a mantle for Christmas and THIS will be on it ~ along with my old angel chimes!!! I mean really! Does it GET any better?
Deep breath! Eyes to ceiling, ThankYou.♥️
So, next: I have a book for you, perfect for the season! It’s called The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches! Written by Sangu Mandanna, and read by Samara MacLaren (she has a PERFECT English accent, the exact one I would choose if I could!). Nobody told me about this book, I just happened upon it, liked the title, wanted something Fallish, and 
thought I would try it. I listened to the adventures at “Nowhere House” while walking my daily walk in the cool crisp and breezy autumn air 🍂🍁🍂 in our beautiful valley, and now I’m seeing gold sparkles swirling through the trees; sparkling around kitty’s feet; cartwheeling across the night sky; even around that phone call from Sycamore Springs Hotel; everywhere!💫 This book is all about good witches, like us, and the difficulty of living in a world with non-witches.🙄 But, I have to say, for me, the magic has to be practical! Literally! I finally went to Amazon to leave a comment for this book, which I found out was the “#1 Best Seller in Witch Romances!”🤣 (Which means there must be more witch romances! Who knew?) And it has over 30,000 reviews already!!!!! Would someone please tell me how someone gets 30,000 reviews on Amazon??? The best I’ve mustered up so far, despite being on the New York Times Best Seller List, is 1000! 
For a Fine Romance ~ which came out 10 years ago! I’m proud of that, because they all came from our wonderful word of mouth, and they’re all so nice, but . . . 30,000??? Poor Distilled Genius has 219, and the new Summer book, hold on to something, has 7! I’m thrilled to say all my books have 5 stars! But what am I doing wrong? Is it Algorithms??? Satellite Block? I know I have always run a little under the radar, I’ve even been a little proud of that because of so much luv-lee word of mouth. But enough is enough! 🤣 I probably shouldn’t say this, but HELP! ~ But I digress. I told you I was going to wing this! Diane Keaton taught me a lot about courage. She was a scared little person at one time, she could barely speak in her first interviews after Annie Hall. But over the years, we could see her growing braver, then she’s singing You Don’t Own Me, and we’re singing right along! It’s HARD to be your own true self, to even find all the pieces so you recognize them . . . especially if you’ve ever felt a little out of it, which she did. Her being brave, helped me feel brave. Another gift she gave to so many of us.💞
I just read a great quote by Bob Dylan: “Life isn’t about finding yourself, it’s about creating yourself!” Isn’t that perfect? We find little pieces 
of ourselves in books, in people (I found a big piece of ME in my landlady from the way back machine, when I saw her cooking for a party ~ not to mention the pieces I got from Gladys Taber and all my other heroes). Maybe Diane saw a little piece of herself in this photo of the young Coco Chanel and took it for her own! We’re inspired by teachers, our parents, their friends, and our friends, Instagram, nature, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, that ocean liner they sailed on, our grandma’s quilts, our mother’s picture taking, our girlfriend’s gardens and shoes, everything! We grab onto those interesting pieces no matter how tiny they are, make them our own, and that’s how we create our own unique being, no two of us alike. It’s another thing that connects us, makes us human. Between all the recent losses, people we’ve known all our lives, Robert Redford, Jane Goodall, and now Diane Keaton . . . It’s made me think how they created their very special selves, and were brave enough to give their beautiful gifts to the world.💝
Something else: We love our local KCLU radio station and listen to it every morning . . . it’s an affiliate of NPR, but has all our local stuff, like Central Coast news, weather, and traffic, and so much more! They give us world news with daily BBC reports, really 
interesting interviews with authors, musicians (young and old), movie makers, designers, memorials, ambassadors, veterans, nature, and news makers ~ happy things, sad things, everything inspiring; plus, they even have word puzzles you can play along with while you’re doing your morning routine … and none of the craziness we hear on cable news, they don’t try to make us hate each other, so it’s soft, and old timey and good . . . There should be a affiliate like that in your area too, with YOUR local news etc. . . but if not, because some have gone away, and some lack money and can’t be as creative, KCLU streams HERE, just click the button at the top of their home page! It’s a gentle beginning for the morning while making your oatmeal, chopping your apples and nuts, fixing up the breakfast trays, feeding the petty pets, and drinking your tea. I’m telling you all this because it makes perfect sense with ⬇️ this adorable thing!
This perfect tiny little retro-radio Joe found on Amazon! So darling, it takes up no space, works so well, and believe it or not, it costs $16.99!!! (total deal of the day), comes in either light or dark “wood,” has a rechargeable battery (just like your phone, so you can take it anywhere) ~ Joe takes it to the garage, or to the garden … here it is on the shelf over my sink. You’ll love it. Old fashioned joy in a very small package. A perfect gift for big or little people! Fits in a stocking!🤣 Read more HERE!
Also, for these chilly Halloween nights . . .We just finished something new I think you’ll love that’s streaming on Netflix called House of Guinness ~ it’s a historical drama, based on true events, starting in 1868 in Ireland of course (but they do pop over to America for part of it). Costumes, actors, story, and beauty, all there and definitely addictive.👀
Joe is getting ready to decorate, as he did last year, the post on the road. No one can see our house through the trees, the least we can do is scare them as they come around the bend in the night when their headlights hit this on our dark road! (This is what we Stewarts do, we plot!) He was talking about getting some EYES for this thing.👀😱
I still have kitty news, butterfly news, giveaway news, tea news, Instagram news, redecorating the guest room news, the weather report . . . breaking news never stops! But that’s all for today, which means, MORE COMING SOON! I hope you’re excited for our Girlfriend party in the spring!!! That’s what I’m working on for now, my gift to me for getting everything done! Oh! And Kellee wants me to tell you we are almost OUT of calendars . . . already! So make sure you have your Christmas gifts because timely delivery of printed items is a thing we can’t be sure of these days!🙄
OOPs, One more thing! I almost forgot! Here’s my video-myself-in-my-studio set-up. Just in cases! There will be two new Interviews coming soon. The first will be in Blue Dot Living … a lovely magazine they have in many parts of the country, which they augment with stories with local interest . . . so this 
interview will be in the November issue, local to Martha’s Vineyard, if I understand it correctly, and maybe something on their website. Also, HUGE HONOR, as you know I’ve been a member of the Beatrix Potter Society (here they are on Instagram) for a long time, and recently they asked to work with me on an article for their new blog called “Inspired by Beatrix,” where they interview people who’ve been, in one way or another, inspired by or influenced by the life and work of Beatrix Potter. That’s definitely me! I’ll be in their December post!♥️
So there we go! Happy Halloween 🎃 and hoping for lots of November fun, cause it’s almost another rabbit-rabbit! I leave you with one of my favorite quotes . . .🍂
It will not lead you astray! Stay Cozy, light the fire or some candles, and dream sweet dreams. ❌⭕️ Girlfriends forever, Anna Susanna Dana Branchburger the Third.
Channeling Diane Keaton, via Laura Ashley in 1987, courtesy of way-back-machine.💖
FYI:This post contains affiliate links, which means we earn a small commission on qualifying purchases for things Susan personally loves enough to share with you, at no additional cost to you.💞
Aaaaak! You really are busy busy these days. Everything sounds so exciting. I am looking forward to you posting where you will be when on your book tour. I love, and have loved for years, everything you create for us. Thank you. Oh, and more mugs …possibly?? If not from England, maybe by some company here??
🎃 Happy Halloween 🎃 Time sure flies. It’ll be Christmas before you know it. I am still so happy that you are enjoying California. Love you. 💙
I love your book recommendations. Thanks! Sounds like a good one! I have reserved it from my local library.
–Jane H.–
When I learned Diane Keaton had died, you were the first person I thought of. You seemed to be related, and I knew you would mourn her passing.
For a variety of reasons, I had never seen Annie Hall. I recently learned of Tubi TV, and there it was, along with other wonderful movies like Manhattan, Radio Days, Moonstruck, etc., and best of all, it’s free! There are two brief (and I do mean brief, less than a minute) commercials. Look for the app, and download it to your smart device,
When too much time goes without a post, I miss hearing from you. So glad you had some good news.
Lovely to read your post today. I, too, am so sad about the loss of Diane. What a loss of us all. We rewatched Baby Boom (girlfriend slumber party) and cried together. Thank goodness for girlfriends!
Looking forward to seeing you soon during your book tour.
Cheers! Carol T.
Thank you for this lovely post. I too have been sad since Diane Keatons passing. Such a lovely vibrant woman with such an endearing personality. May she rest in peace.
Wishing you the very best dear Susan. You are a bright spot in these crazy times.
We just watched two Diane Keaton movies, Something’s Gotta Give and The Book Club, the Next Chapter and plan to rent more from our library. She was adorable. Loved her since Annie Hall. I’m also so sad to lose Jane Goodall. I am positive that she was an admirer of Beatrix Porter. They had so much in common. And Robert Redford was also one of my favorite actors. He was the best Gatsby by far.
What a lovely post! Diane Keaton left us way too soon – a true original in a world that’s anything but. I loved her best, I think, in Something’s Gotta Give – great cast, beautiful settings, and a woman who seemed maybe uptight but turned out to be the opposite.
I also really, really miss Robert Redford, such a great actor and director and an amazing human.
I love the cozy comfort foods of autumn, early dark, candles, a good book, maybe a fire in the fireplace. Is there a better word than “cozy”? I don’t think so.
Always love your blogs Susan! I must say it helped me some to get out of my funk about Diane Keaton’s passing just knowing it hit you and others the same. Took the wind out of my sails and also John Lodge of the Moody Blues a few days before! It was the connection with your happy genes that helped! 😊
A fantastic blog today! Your lovely happy, positive, and kind words are what we all need these days. Thank you Susan.
Losing Diane Keaton at such a young age is just devastating! I absolutely loved her. I don’t know who couldn’t love her. I will be watching her movies as a tribute to her.
Absolutely love you too!🍂🐿️🍁🍂🐿️🍁🤎🧡💛
Diane Keaton was so awesome. Loved her in “Something’s got to give” & “Book Club”. Looking forward to attending your book tour at Avila Beach.
Thank you. Ann
I just received my calendars today!! Always my Christmas present to myself. Beautiful ❤️Thank you for this wonderful Willard. Chock a block full of joy, hope and love. Gosh we will miss our beautiful Diane. So adored. I keep thinking about her beautiful, grown children. Such a loss. Our Angel with a hat. 😢 What a fantastic idea for your next girlfriend party! Love it. Such a beautiful area. We traveled many years ago to that area and visited your store!! The foliage is at its peak this week here in Rhode Island . Zinnias are still blooming, pumpkins are everywhere, and we have warm days and cool sleeping weather. No A/C or heat needed. Your blog brightened my day when I really was down in the dumps. Thank 😘 you.
Dear Susan,
It/they hit me hard too! I have been soothing myself with sweet Diane movies. Love them all!
Great news to have signings to look forward to in the spring! I was at Apple Farm and enjoyed a fabulous weekend with my sister/friend Linda. The food was great at their restaurant too. Loved every minute. I even met Cliff, as he was leaving. I recognized him from your book.
I see, from the pic, that I went to a different Apple Farm signing than this one, as you were wearing a skirt then. Ha! Also, we are not in the pic. Either way, such fun!
Enjoy the fabulous fall and holiday season with your darling Joe!
Melin
xoxo
I was so sorry to hear about our girl, Miss Diane! Not sure why, but I always referred to her as Miss Diane. Just loved her unique style. Ah, “Seems like Old Times…” I just re-watched Annie Hall yesterday!
There are those people who you don’t actually know and maybe never even met… but you just have a connection with them. All “the girlfriends” out there feel just like that about YOU and I know a lot of us feel that way about Diane, too. It’s just one more of those kindred spirit things… like all England (not that I’ve ever been, but I’m sort of obsessed with it, haha – and WWII movies – I always try to make you “know” which girl friend I am by saying I recommended Band of Brothers to you in a Willard, haha!
Let me recommend one more thing… not a WWII movie… a romance… Brooklyn (2015) starring Saoirse Ronan…IF you’ve never seen it. I know you love classic films as do I – and even though this is from 2015, it has a very old black and white movie kind of feel. I love recommending movies! So if you’ve seen this, I will try and come up with something else! But I know we’ve seen (and loved) a lot of the same things! Okay – I’m rambling now!
I can’t wait to get the dates for the Girlfriends party. Are the Christmas books on pre-order yet? I loved your Apple Farm book signing in 2018 where I met you for the first time. I have been following you since the very first book. 📖 It is soooo exciting! Happy Halloween to you and Joe!! I had Laura Ashley items from that era too! You look absolutely adorable in your hat and outfit. So Diane Keaton.
Such sad news to hear of Diane Keaton’s death 🥺. She’s made some of the funniest films – will be sorely missed.
Thank you for a lovely Willard; as ever it is full to the brim with loveliness.
Love and hugs
Karen x x x
Northamptonshire
U.K. 🇬🇧
Hi Susan!
Cindy Maulin here… it’s been a while but here we are! Love your homage to Diane Keaton. She truly was one-of-a-kind and will be remembered for her unbridled talent, love of life, trend setting fashion and quirky unwavering kindness. She will be missed by many.
I am happy to see that you and Joe have settled in so well in your new digs. Your home looks
very cozy and welcoming. The “ber” months are a favorite time of year… made your Spiced Cider recipe yesterday even though it is still in the lower 80’s here in Florida!! LOL!
Hello to Joe and Happy Halloween!!! Oh, and thanks for the tip on the book… my kind of read! Sending hugs
Love, Cindy
Beautiful blog,full of surprises and inspiration. Diane was one of a kind, and she will be missed,but she left such a shadow on our hearts.Somethings gotta give was one of my favorites ❤️ I love knowing you are still in the world to lead us on,in times of trouble we need a positive person to show us the good in the world. Politics can divide our country, but we as women have to keep the faith and cool heads to make our country see that we are one nation under God.I believe God uses everyone for the good,even republicans.lolHold on to your beautiful attitude and lead us on.No one should ever loose their spark, even if everyone is trying to blow it out.Stay beautiful. Mary Elizabeth Marshall Craven Lawrence!
Oh, Susan, reading your blog makes me wonder if you ever miss your Martha’s Vineyard home and all the stories it told. I became attached to that house even though I never saw it; the mere thoughts of all the pictures of the rooms and the glorious outdoor beauty of the lawn, the picket-fenced garden, quilts and tea towels on the clothesline, and even the little birds and creatures you included in your blog made me long to see what seemed to be a magical place on the Isle of Dreams. Do you miss the special kind of unique beauty that you and Joe created? Yet, I suppose there comes a time when one’s strong inner voice that calls people back to the original habitat of their childhood and youth. Is that what happened to you, dear heart?
You look absolutely adorable all dressed up in your Laura Ashley garb! Oh, how popular her clothes were back in the 80s and 90s! Most of us wanted the “Laura look”. My daughter-in-law planned a Laura Ashley wedding. Each bridesmaid wore an adorable pink Laura Ashley dress with the hem exactly the same height from the floor to avoid a ziz-zag look; not good for pictures.
Thanks for the nudge to write a review for each of your books!
I truly wish for you and Joe every happiness, joy, and prosperity in your wonderful secluded home near San Luis Obispo; a paradise part of California! The last time I was in that area, I gloried in the fields of blazing orange-red poppies; a magnificent sight that prompts wide smiles! Perhaps, Susan, you could capture this happy flower in one of your illustrations or paintings. I would give most anything to be a part of your Girl Party in the spring! Perhaps the poppies will be in bloom to create a perfect photo opportunity. HAPPY PLANNING‼️
We not only lost the inimitable Diane Keaton, we also lost, just a week earlier, the indomitable force that was Patritia Routledge. Her documentary, “Who Was The Real Beatrix Potter?” was truly incomparable. Of course, many remember her primarily for her portrayal of the indefatigable Hyacinth “it’s BOUQUET” Bucket, but she was so much more, and I especially loved her in Alan Bennett’s “Talking Heads”
I’d love to know in more detail which English accent you think is the most perfect. The Geordie, or the Scouser, the Cockney or the West Country, maybe the Estuary or the Yorkshire? Or one of the multitude of other dialects and accents that pepper the entire British Isles? I could listen to Ronan Keating with his soft, lilting Irish accent all day long! No one could tell where my lovely Dad hailed from because his accent was a beautiful mixture of Mqncunian and west Wales.
Work beckons, there is a new wet room to be decorated and the cupboards have just arrived! But first I must go and dance like Elaine!
Hugs from west Wales xx
There are SO MANY luv-lee accents in the UK, I love them ALL!! I wish I could hear YOURS! xoxo
Oh!! Dear Heart, if ever there was a more welcome Willard, I can’t think of one. You may know that line from Robert Burns, To A Mouse…The best laid schemes o’ Mice and Men Gang aft agley. Tom is my poetry man and we did visit Robbie Burn’s home and museum in Scotland. We were cozy here in Maine, thinking, plans laid, now just be cozy and have each other as we ease out of these mortal coils.
Our sweet daughter, Kristin, had a massive stroke and is still in hospital in Florida, now a month. No possibility of recovery. She’s single, so Tom flew down. 4 days after arriving, he was diagnosed with Covid, and was critically ill himself. 2 weeks later, he flew back up to Maine to get our ducks in a row, and give me driving lessons in our new, used car, a 2020 Subaru Outback named Luna. My heart skipped a beat when I saw him, love of course, but shock. He’s lost 10 pounds and looked so very weak. He is almost 86, and the virus really took it out of him. We got everything done, and he flew back to Florida on Monday. His youngest daughter, Bonnie, an RN, flew down from Minnesota, and is there now. Lawyer arranged for them to gain access to all her assets, as she didn’t have a will. If she even survives, she will need major care for the rest of her life. (Make your wills Now, Girlfriends!)
Travel isn’t an option for me, but I’m in good shape with marvelous next-door neighbors and girlfriends.
Using your Mantra, Dear Sue, focusing on beauty around me, listening to my music, keeping busy. Baking and cooking big pots of soup and stew for myself.
Our Fall was glorious, beautiful color. Big Nor’easter on Sunday, blew most of the maple leaves off trees. Bright yellow, gold, orange and red confetti adorning the branches of the balsams, spruce and white pines. Last night it was clear, so the stars are now visible through the bare branches. The ground is a riot of color.
Thank you for the book recommendation. I’m reading a new one, Bog Queen. Just published. Set in England, present day with flash backs to Celtic Britian. Story about a body found in a peat bog, and it follows the lives of the young woman forensic anthropologist and the young Druid woman a few thousand years ago. I’m liking it. Streamed, binge watched all seasons of Gilded Age..OH, how beautiful. The Gold, rereleased on Masterpiece is excellent..Hugh Bonneville. True story.
Every morning, I get to sit here with my coffee and watch the light arrive. Being waterfront on our little Hog Bay, I am acutely aware of the tides. Always changing, but always the same rhythm. That gives me so much comfort.
And I’ve started again on my Gladys Tabor. Have owned them many years.
Mucho Love from Maine, your Blog Hog Debbie
I love you dear Debbie, I’m so sorry to hear about your daughter. That is just heartbreaking!!! So unexpected. And Tom, flying to the rescue, to have the stuffing knocked out of him by Covid. Is he better? I’m sorry, I only just saw this comment from you and didn’t know. I hope things and transitioned into some sort of calmer acceptance and are better for you now . . . tell me when you can. Feel better, Christmas angel blessings on you both! xoxoxo
I loved every word! Would you tell us more about “growing up with Diane”? How close were you? Did she always aspire to be an actress? Were you classmates? Neighboring friends?
So sorry, we were growing up at the same time, experiencing some of the same issues re: growing up, and the times we lived in ~ but I didn’t know her, other than from her movies! I like to THINK we were growing up “together” … she just didn’t know it! Didn’t matter, I was a very admiring friend of hers!
Dear Susan, I too am still unmoored by the death of the wonderful joyous Diane Keaton. How can she be gone?? Makes no sense…. So glad she was in the world for every one of her 79 years. I was able to meet her when she visited La Jolla on a book tour.. She was as lovely as you can imagine.
Yes Yes Yes on a spring girlfriend get together.. Much needed and something wonderful to anticipate and look forward to. Can’t wait to get the details, grab a friend and come say hi and in person. I was at the Apple Inn and it was the best!! So joyful. We all need some joy in our lives.. thank you so much for everything you are and do.. Hi to Joe and Jack. Love, Beverlee
Love this Willard….thanks!
Hello! No worry about Amazon reviews! I purchase most books directly from you and never think to go to Amazon to do a review. Your best confirmation of your wonderful work is how many repeat purchasers you have. My home has Susan Branch dishes (even the Lennox ones), books, vintage items, calendars, etc. I would venture to guess you have way more than 30,000 regular purchasers like me! My daughter refers to me as a Susan Branch fan girl! I know you have lots of those! Thank you for adding beauty to my world since the 1990’s maybe even the 1980’s, who can remember back that far!
Wonderful tribute🧡 to Diane Keaton. The best I’ve seen because it really got me 😭. She was “herself” which is inspiring. A great quirky, warm, kind person. Of course hee movies and roles are treasures for us even more (Family Stone❣️🎄)! From one Diane to another…May You Rest in Peace.
You never fail delight and impress. So enjoyed the new Willard, look forward to the next. Grateful, Donna Miller
Okay I’m usually too shy to comment, but here goes. First of all, your books have been such a comfort to me since I was in my mid-twenties (I’m 31 now!). I keep Martha’s Vineyard: Isle of Dreams near my bedside at pretty much all times and I have passed on copies to family and friends. It’s an all-time comfort book for me now. I am also reading Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches this month! And my husband and I just watched Father of the Bride in honor of Diane Keaton (and because it’s just a wonderful comfort movie). Thank you for sharing so much positivity, hope, humor, and joy on the Internet (and in print!).
Hi Taylor . . . you came to the perfect place for shy people! I’m so glad to “meet” you . . . thank you for the kind words and Merry Christmas!!! xoxo
I love so much Susan. Happy Halloween
Love the 1987 photo at the end of the newsletter. You were definitely rockin the look!
So excited to hear about the event at Sycamore/Gardens of Avila! Was just there for our monthly girlfriends Birthday Brunch. It’s the perfect reason to meet up monthly and say Happy Birthday to whomever has their day that month. Had not been to Sycamore/Gardens in years. My Christmas Carolers used to sing in the restaurant every Saturday night – many great memories there and looking forward to a new one in the Spring!
Excited to see the date. Happy Halloween!
Such great news about the spring get together! As I am getting older (83) driving to the coast or anywhere gets harder, but I was there at the Apple Farm “meet and greet” and sure hope I am able to come again this spring. Doing all I can to stay healthy, good food, gym etc. If I don’t make it, I know you will post lots of pictures.
Lovely post, Susan…as always. But, yes, the passing of Diane Keaton hit like a ton of bricks. She gave permission for every woman to lean into her quirky, awkward, unique and WONDERFUL self! Oh how many times I said “La Dee Da” when growing up, when nothing else felt quite right in the moment! And I love that you found (and loved) The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches! I remember experiencing some very magical things after reading it myself. Much love to you and Happy Autumn, kindred spirit!
Dear Susan, so glad to hear from you. Have been worried. I look at your blue sky x account each day, and you are not posting like you used to. Glad all is good. Been wanting to talk about Monarchs! I taught for 30 years and always had Monarch chrysalis for my students to study. You are so close to Pacific Grove where they overwinter. Keep chrysalis outside, as soon as they hatch and the sun dries them they will be on their way. Caterpillars only eat milkweed, so the more milkweed you have, the more chrysalis you will have. You had two in that one picture. So exciting!!! Also if you are lucky enough to see them open, look on the hind wings. The males will have a black dot on each wing. You need to visit pacific grove, you will love it. Just bought your new calendar, the radio for a Christmas present and the witch book for myself. Thanks for the tips. I cannot wait to see the fireplace mantel from your friend Lowly. Since you didn’t talk about your old house, am assuming that it has not sold. That is unbelievable. If I lived there I would move heaven and earth to get my hands on the wonderful place. Wondering if Jackie boy has warmed up to your other kitties? Have you thought about putting a leash on him and taking him outside with you to see if he could make friends? I want your new kitties to be in with you for Christmas! So looking forward to hearing from you. I have missed you.❤️Debby
I copied – in my neatest handwriting – your recipe for spiced cider in a beautiful little journal with hedgehogs and garden snails on the front and back.
Look forward to making cider for myself and my grown daughter when I visit her for the holidays.
Thank you for the recipe and for your wonderful newsletters.
Have a lovely Halloween!
Apologies for my long post. I must seem like the ultimate Drama Queen. But getting into your 80’s means life will definitely throw you some punches.
Debbie in Maine
You are smart, connected, interesting, and creative, and if you didn’t have a bunch of drama in you, we wouldn’t love reading your comments as we do! You go girl, and never worry! xoxoxo With Love!
Thank you, Susan, for the lovely Willard! It’s always a pleasure to see it pop up in my emails, but for some reason it’s especially welcome today. Maybe I have the fall blues or just an overly busy couple of weeks but again, thank you.
It’s still something of a shock that you’re not in Martha’s Vineyard but I’m getting used to it and the feeling I get from your missives isn’t about location anyway; it’s about YOU.
Happy almost November…..so much to look forward to!
Diane Keaton and I are of the same generation. As I came out of my hippy bell-bottom (now labeled flare leg) jeans to enter the “real” world of paying bills I dressed as Diane before seeing her first movie. I thought we were sympatico in how to dress our psyche for the world. Asking book talk attendees to dress as Diane is a wonderfully fun idea and homage to her.
As autumn “leaves” us here in northern IL I’ll think of you and Joe in sunny Ca and wish you many pleasant days ahead.
BTW, I ordered the radio! Cannot wait for it to arrive. 🙂
It’s so cute, I know you’ll love it! YES! Homage, that’s the word I was searching for. Seems like old times . . . it will be WONDERFUL!!!
I wasn’t going to add this postscript however … please know when you don’t post any comment or even a current photo of Jack that many of us worry, alot. We want to know how he is doing with each newsletter.
OK, I do try, but I’ll try harder. I know you worry! xoxo
What a wonderful post. I think we all feel like we knew Diane Keaton. Some personalities make everyone feel like they are a friend. You have one of those personalities. I believe that is why the “Girlfriends” are such kindred spirits. I have attended each of your book signings at the Learned Owl in Hudson, Ohio. I live outside of Pittsburgh and I always meet up with people waiting in line who have also traveled to Hudson because we love everything “Susan Branch”. This spring book tour sounds wonderful. I wish you, Joe and Jack a wonderful fall and holiday season. Thanks for making our world so much brighter and joyful.
BTW, as far as that book getting 30,000 reviews on Amazon. I think the key is YouTube. I’m not sure what year that book came out, but I remember seeing it highlighted on several popular YouTube channels hosted by people who have lifestyle channels who also incorporate reviewing books regularly in their videos. Several of those YouTubers have given you a shoutout for your “Autumn” book when they were reviewing atmospheric books in their fall videos.
AHA! I didn’t even think of that Janet! Interesting!
So excited for party time! Keaton and Chanel are perfect inspiration for self-expression. I can see the association of the two, especially after watching Coco Before Chanel. I just caught this film at the local museum by accident, while visiting the art exhibit, Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939. Your newsletter is always full of creative ways we can express ourselves. Love it.
Loved your post today, everything in it! Stopped half way thru to order the radio. I wish it came with the news station that does not make us hate each other. Kindness is so important! I will definitely track down your podcasts! xoxo
You can stream that station, even if it’s not in your area, doesn’t cost anything, but google and see if there is a National Public Radio in your area xoxo
As always, love reading your blog. <3 I don't have much to comment this time, but I wanted to make sure you didn't feel shorted, like on Amazon book reviews! I adore your books!! And the radio station has been saved 🙂
popping off to order the calendar here in the uk immediately. I will be at the party in spirit!
I loved Diane Keaton so much I just can’t stand it. I dressed up as Annie Hall for Halloween when I was in my twenties. I had a great tan summer suit (I still have it) and I borrowed a navy blue tie from a co-worker. This past week I’ve been wearing hats and scarves and thinking about her and I watched Baby Boom while I was baking, which made me feel better. She was so wonderful, and I love that you loved her too. And I absolutely LOVE what you said about it being hard to be our true selves, and it takes time, but to find all the pieces eventually is so wonderful, and she was delightfully imperfect and vulnerable and wacky, all the things I embrace about myself in middle age. So thank you Susan, and thank you Diane. RIP Diane Keaton. xo Elizabeth in CT
I can’t wait for the new Christmas book! It is my go to for yummy Christmas recipes! I use Annie’s Butter cookie recipe every year! I’m hoping that you will be coming to Texas on your tour. And I have to confess that in my excitement to order the Summer book I ended up ordering it TWICE! So my girlfriend Dana got one of them as a birthday present. PS I ran right over to amazon and left reviews of both The Summer Book and Distilled Genius. Hope you have an excellent weekend!
Happy Halloween Ghoulfriends! Susan, I wondered if you have seen the Tuxedo Cat Lego set?! It looks just like your Jack. Best, Janet
Hi Susan! Wow, how did you know how much I needed to hear from you via Willard today? I have lost most of October being in the hospital and hospital’s medical rehab (6th through whenever, perhaps this upcoming Monday, the 27th or thereafter). Geez. Had a leg surgery and this and that. Like a car, went in for a simple inspection and will be coming out with a full overhaul. Geez. Can’t they take a joke? Blew right past my birthday on Oct. 7th. (Cry for me here) but am looking forward to it upon arriving back home. Home sweet home! Getting Willard was so lovely. Thank you Susan and Girlfriends! Your Spring get together sounds great but I would have to come by video. Possible? You know us, anything is possible! Yes, I, too was saddened to lose our dear Diane Keaton. A true gem. A true girlfriend! Her movies were always a joy and still will be. Happy Halloween to Joe and Jack! Have a fun CA time! It is always a Treat to hear from you~ xo
Hi Susan! Wow, how did you know how much I needed to hear from you via Willard today? I have lost most of October being in the hospital and hospital’s medical rehab (6th through whenever, perhaps this upcoming Monday, the 27th or thereafter). Geez. Had a leg surgery and this and that. Like a car, went in for a simple inspection and will be coming out with a full overhaul. Geez. Can’t they take a joke? Blew right past my birthday on Oct. 7th. (Cry for me here) but am looking forward to it upon arriving back home. Home sweet home! Getting Willard was so lovely. Thank you Susan and Girlfriends! Your Spring get together sounds great but I would have to come by video. Possible? You know us, anything is possible! Yes, I, too was saddened to lose our dear Diane Keaton. A true gem. A true girlfriend! Her movies were always a joy and still will be. Happy Halloween to Joe and Jack! Have a fun CA time! It is always a Treat to hear from you~ xo Happy birthday Joe!
Oh poor baby, I’m crying🥲 Too much all at once! Happy Birthday ANYWAY. I’m so late! But you’re home for Christmas and good as new and probably bopping around by now! xoxo Love hearing from you too, Susie!
Wonderful post! I have read and loved the book by Sangu. Her second one about magical innkeeping is just as good 😊. And as to why your books don’t have the number of reviews hers do, I may be the weird one but, I have and treasure ALL of your books, I give them as gifts, and I also have all of Gladys Tabor’s books and belong to that society (thanks to you)…I could go on infinitum… AND I have never left a review for, rated or hashtagged anything, ever. I don’t have social media of any kind and my guess is that I’m not the only one of your loyal followers that falls into that group. I’m sorry 😞. I really will try to do better 🤪
Oh you do fine, never think of that! I was just being a venting machine I think! Anyway, I’m the most blessed, with friends like YOU!xoxoxo
Enjoy the Fall, I certainly enjoy your posts immensely! Hugs !
Hello Susan!
Thank you for your tribute to the incomparable Ms Keaton. I think my favorite film of hers was The Family Stone. Her clothes, her luminous beauty, her sharp wit, her laughter. Her aching pain. Her love for her family. Her ability to admit when she was wrong. Chef’s kiss!
I’m excited for the spring. I had the happy privilege of being in that Apple Farm picture. I was in the 3rd row from the back next to my friend Becky who was leaning her head into the aisle. I’m the one with the long dark hair and glasses.
That was such a special event. We were invited to join Christine Levin (sp?) and her friend in their Apple Farm room that they had decorated with ALL the things to make a room festive for the release of Enchanted’s first chapter. We met in line, like you said, and it was such a lovely experience meeting them and sharing in their hospitality.
Last year I told you about an event that I hope you can attend this year. The annual Central Coast Weavers Guild has an annual sale November 7-9 at the Strawbale Barn 9156 Santa Margarita Rd, Atascadero, CA 93422
The Barn is out of this world! Upstairs are vintage but fully functional looms dating back hundreds of years. The show is free to the public, and totally inspirational. The guild hosts a showcase and sale of their members’ work, and it’s amazing. It’s full of woven, knitted, crocheted, felted, and stitched work.
Great for holiday shopping because 100% of your $ goes to the fiber artists and their guild.
https://centralcoastweavers.org/annual-sale/
I think you could get some friends to head up there for a lovely day. I’m not a member of their guild (I’m in Anne’s Web Spinners and the Carmel Crafts Guild) but the CCW is part of CNCH (The Conference for Northern CA Handweavers) and is made up of a bunch of guilds from the Central Coast up to Northern CA. Our annual conference meets in different parts of the country, and a few years ago, I got to attend the one in CAl Poly, but my dye class was at the Strawbale Barn, and it was magical!
In today’s difficult times, we need to find community, friendship, and creativity in order to create ourselves like Bob Dylan said! I find my fiber community does that beautifully. I was invited to join the Backyard Green Films crew at Rhinebeck this year for the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival, and I got to run all over interviewing other fiber artists for their livestream and YouTube channel! That opportunity came out of nowhere! They had interviewed me last year at Lambtown in my booth, and they enjoyed it so much, they flew me out and gave me a room at their house on the literal banks of the Hudson River.
Here’s one of the links to day 1 of the livestream https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1V6WR9vURk
So when you say you were a late bloomer, I relate. I’m 51 and constantly trying new things and experimenting. I’m currently working with the Backyard Green Film Crew doing a podcast with them all about Fiber Arts on their agri-Culture podcast. They call it Susan’s Shire in honor of my love for nature and literature. As a public school teacher, it helps me stay vertical. As do your posts and blogs. Every fall through January I go back and re-read your books and fall-winter blog posts dating back to the beginning.
You inspire me daily, and I’m so grateful that I have had 2 chances to see you in person, and next spring will, hopefully, be a 3rd!
I hope you and Joe and the kitties have a lovely autumn.
Cheers,
Susan Shirley
Thanks once again for your enthusiasm of life, creativity and girlfriends!! Amazing how we’re all so connected through our kindred spirits. I too was gut punched with the loss of Diane Keaton. She was a kindred spirit who lighted our load. She will be sorely missed 😢
Wishing you well always and don’t worry about numbers…you and your books are treasured and that’s all you can ask for…love to you and all our girlfriends 🌻🧡🍁
I just heard on KCLU that watching and listening to uplifting media is good for our mental well being☺️ I asked Alexa to play KLCU. here in Wisconsin 🥰
Hi Susan
Thanks for another great post! I am so sad about Diane Keaton.
I feel like I lost a really good friend. I always thought if there was ever a movie made about your very interesting life, well Diane Keaton could have played you!
She was my all time favorite actress.
Your spring book tour sounds amazing! I am penciling it in on my calendar. I live in Southern California and I love a good road trip. Take care of yourself. I always look forward to your next post!
Theresa Raffee
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Love that Theresa, me too, love a good road trip!! xoxo Always going to miss Diane Keaton! xoxo
Just want to thank you, in particular, for the Bluedot Living referral and also for recommending The Country Commonplace Book by Miranda Mills!!!! Really appreciate those!!
Also have a new email, which I’ve noted below!
Joy, Peace, & Good,
Denise
My pleasure Denise! xoxo
Hi there, Happy to read all these words! I am going to order the radio for my husband for Christmas. I will also look forward to following up with all the good news you posted. Also, Susan I have not been receiving any emails about your posts and I just do my own checking from time to time to see if you have added any news. I have made sure each time to add my email and I do not know why I stopped receiving anything from you; I do think it was at the time you moved? Anyway, I am still enjoying Distilled Genius! Happy Halloween! Linda Smith (Tallahassee, FL)
Hi Linda! I asked Kellee to check on that … hopefully she can fix it! So sorry!!! Happy Christmas!
Hello Susan,
Any chance you can get to Pennsylvania when you’re on your book tour next Spring? I would sure love to see you. Have been a fan for about 10 years now.
Hope to see you!
Love,
Carol
Gettysburg PA
Yes, a good chance! Hope to meet you Carol!
O, what a treasure I have…waiting at the tips of my fingers.All of my stacks of your beautiful, thought-provoking, inviting, armchair-worthy, delicious tomes…No work being done today…none! (Unless it is to wash my dishes after trying out one of your recipes)For I’m off to places today with my heart in tow…to dream dreams of possibilities, to discover the beauty in this world (which begins with me often times),from the tiniest flower to kind and smiling faces, to discovering places in the heart as you travel with your readers down a shy, unassuming, but full of joyous surprises…English lane! Now here is where I say to you and Joe—a heart-felt THANK YOU for your talent, perseverance and persistence in showing the beauty and possibilities, often right at our fingertips!
Love you Susan, such sweet words! xoxoxo
Thanks for the witchy book recommendation. I am certainly enjoying it.
Good!
I really enjoyed Annie Hall, and other films that Diane was in but never really thought about her or her style after the movies ended. Many years ago, a very good friend of mine said… have I ever told you that you remind me of Diane Keaton? Wow! That was surprising. Two other friends who were there both agreed. I don’t dress like her or look like her or in any way try to be like her. Since then if I happen to see her on TV I will stop and watch for a bit. That’s my Diane Keaton story and I’m still not sure what they see, but that’s OK with me. She was someone special.
It sounds like a compliment to me!!! 👏👏👏
I loved this post. I have been with you a long time. A long time. You always make me feel relaxed. Comforted. I found the little church for the tealight on ebay or etsy, cannot remember which, but it is perfect on my mantle. Also I recently came across a woman who reminds me of tasha tudor and beatrix potter and you all rolled into one. Her name is Kate and she lives in Northern England and her website is thelasthomelyhouse . If you have never watched her, give it a look and I am sure you will love her. Love you.
I will do that Linda! Thank you!
I got to reading this one 2 months late. It lets me know I am not slowing down properly… to enjoy life. Reading your Willard reminds me of all the good things in life. And that is SOMETHING wonderful! Thank you for continuing to shine your bright light far and wide Susan. I hope to attend one of your book-signing parties if not the great venue in Cali you mentioned. That would be spectacular. Still awaiting with hopeful breath… your England/Scotland/Ireland travel log book.
Love MY-YOUR Willards, they take me to a happy place every time. I resonated with “this reminding ourselves of the faith and beauty that lives in us all.” and can’t wait to laminate my Full Moons 2026. Thank you for your light, pause and reflection. Love Love Love and wishing you a wonderful 2026!
I always look forward to reading your posts. Of course I save them so I can reread them over and over again. I miss having you as a neighbor in our New England’s “Martha’s Vineyard”. I feel as though my cottage is an endless literary showcase, and your books are always right on top in view. Thank you Susan and have a very “Merry Christmas”…
Thank you (as always) for a little reminder of the beauty of this time of year. Your timing is impeccable ☺️. Merry Christmas to you & Joe.
I have enjoyed your artwork, quotes, and books over the years. Your small Christmas Book was such a treat to have on my coffee table during Christmas in my little apartment when my husband and I were first married in the 90’s
Thanks, Susan, for making our world a brighter place. I can always count on you to bring joy into my world!
I love Willard and all the quotes and your talent
I have some of your books-nice to feel happy and dreamy too.
You are so artistic–I love Christmas–thank you so much
Hello, Susan – I’ve been a longtime follower of your blog. My walls are decorated with your whimsical art, and I’ve collected many of your books. I had the pleasure of meeting you and Joe in Barnes & Noble years ago when my son worked in the West Palm Beach store. You signed a copy of your Autumn book for me – my favorite time of year! Looking forward to my new calendar and how it will brighten up my kitchen. Wishing you both a dreamy holiday, and that you have a happy and healthy New Year!
Love your Willard newsletter, always. Thank you for your uplifting news and your beautiful artwork. Happy Holidays.
Love, Love, Love the mantel. I am also blessed with a handy husband who built me a front porch(really a deck} big enough for 2 rocking chairs and a small table for tea and scones. My friends like to come over and wave to people going by with their dogs or babies. Miss you being close to the Cape. Im sure you are coming to Titcombs this spring!
Love, love, love receiving Willard newsletter. Always makes me smile and inspires me to do something creative. ♥️
Thank you.
I have loved you and your beautiful artwork for years! Christmas joy has brought me much joy over the years!! Here’s to Annie Hall cookies!
Love love love the fireplace! Way to go Joe!!
I always look forward to a new Willard! I wait until the house is settled, grab a cup of Earl Grey tea and enjoy soaking up the newsletter. Thank you for such a wonderful publication ❤️
The lastest Willard arrived just when I needed it! So happy that you’re doing so well. My house is decorated for Christmas. All in pink, silver, and white! My family is coming for a visit, so I’m getting out the cookbooks! My grandsons are cookie lovers, so I have baking to do. Hope we have a white Christmas, but you never know. Wishing you and yours a wonderful Christmas and a Happy 2026. Blessings Always.
What would we do without your “Willard” posts. I love the poems, the drawings and the photos. It’s so wonderful to receive positive thoughts after the many, many emails about the crazy politics going on in our country. I keep your book “Distilled Genius” by my bed to read something positive before I shut my eyes each night. Thank you ! Happy Holidays and have a great New Year.
So excited to get this new Willard. Sat and read it and it brought comfort to me and the charm of the Christmas season. Merry! Merry! I must tell you in planning some holiday entertaining I got out your recipe for Mac and Cheese in your 30th anniversary book Heart of the Home/Vineyard Kitchen. Can’t wait to share it with friends. I am busy with cookie baking, card writing, gift shopping (some online!), wrapping, decorating. It is all great fun and love it all and glad to see you do too. Must tell you I am a Peter Rabbit person also. I have collected rabbit figurines of all kinds with a focus on Peter. Have Potter books, too, and admire Beatrix so much. We have had live rabbits and one was always named Peter. When in my big house, we always had three live trees and one was my bunny tree covered with all bunny ornaments collected over time. Even a bunny angel on the top. I loved it. There is a bunny site on Facebook that shows the sweetest bunnies and always brings a smile to my face even in these turbulent times. Thank you for your quotes. I love them and they give me hope and inspiration. Please keep Willard coming to cheer us. Have a Happy Holiday with your husband and your mantel!
Your Christmas decorations are absolutely lovely! And the Santa cup is so cheerful. Thank you for bringing joy, creativity, and love into the miracle of Christmas and Jesus’ birth!
Your like a mystical person. I always love your blog. It’s a mix of all kinds of things.
I love your newsletter and all of your books. My first was Girlfriends Forever. I’ve been hooked ever since. Your bookmark this month on moon phases is very special. My husband, Dick, is the moon expert in our family. We have several antique clocks, one being a family heirloom Grandfather clock from the late 1700″s. He faithfully keeps it running, and makes sure the moon phase on the clock face is accurate. He will love this bookmark as much as I will enjoy making it for him. Thank you for all you do to bring joy to all of us.
It’s so nice to have you on the west coast with us now. We are long time Ventura residents.
This is my first time writing to you. Please know how much joy your words and art bring to me! You always leave me smiling, so thank you for being you, a kindred spirit to so many of us.❤️
My pleasure Debbie! 💞
Oh thank you for remembering Diane Keaton. The world seems out of balance somehow without her in it. Happy Christmas and help us maintain our balance in the new year, dear Susan.
It definitely does feel out of balance without her. xoxoxo
Love reading your blogs as they take me to a relaxing & beautiful place in my mind & heart! Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season!
Love it all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Such a joy to receive ‘Willards’ in my email & read your wonderful updates on life in California, decorating, travel, etc.! Just wish they would arrive more often!
Thank you for a great newsletter and for adding a bright spot to my inbox!
Thank you for the newsletter!
Thank you for the newsletter!
Thank you!
I am so happy to have discovered your wise and wonderful books and posts. So many interesting paths they have lead me to, in particular the Gladys Tabor books. I hope to be able to attend a book signing someday. Come to Pittsburgh PA!
This issue of Willard arrived on this cold morning in South Carolina. I always stop what I’m doing to read it with a cup of coffee! I enjoyed seeing Joe creating your mantle. My husband did the same for me. Your stories resonate with me as my first marriage ended after 22 years. Now married to my soulmate for 27 years on December 20th. May God richly bless you and Joe! Merry Christmas!
It’s always a pleasant surprise to open my “mail” and there is a letter from Susan!!
While the whole letter was wonderful, the spiced cider recipe was a blessing!! I had just volunteered to bring it to our neighborhood gathering but have never, ever made it before. Thank you!!
Love all the updates on this Willard and the tributes to Ms. Keaton!
I so look forward to your Willard newsletter and all your ideas! Beatrix Potter is one of my favorite authors, too and l love seeing all the old books you have found of her. You are very generous with your give-aways. Maybe I’ll be a lucky one! Love your new mantle, Joe did a great job. Have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!
A faithful follower……
You always brighten my day. I have been through a rough stretch (5 years long, oh my) but when I read the Willard I just can’t be sad. I can only be hopeful and I thank you for your outlook, your perspective, your creativity, wonderful recipes and beautiful art. You are an inspiration. Every year for Christmas my daughter gifts me your calendar, at my request 🙂
a good read as always! Thanks Susan <3
Hello Susan,
I love all your giveaway items but especially the angel chimes – we had these at our house each Christmas when I was a kid.
I also love that full moon bookmark – it is going into Christmas stockings this year 🙂
Thank you for all your beautiful art, and have a wonderful holiday season!