Happy Monday Girlfriends! MUSICA . . . We’ve been busy-busy, as usual. How’s everything with you? Joe and I are just getting “ready to GO” cross the country and meet everyone . . . doing little things around the house so I can feel proud that when we come home, nothing will upset us. Like dirty curtains or something. Hate that.
Joe repainted the downstairs bathroom, which needed it. We took all the pictures off the wall, cleaned them, washed and shined the glass, and put them back. And then I washed this little dresser scarf we have on a white painted table in there, oooooh, needed it bad.
Spring is for Dust Bunnies.
I love old-fashioned starch you mix with water . . . crisp and white is the name of the game. Starched things stay looking fresh a LOT longer than unstarched things. By about a year I would say.
So pretty. So happy here in . . .
I did the little curtain in the bathroom too. Ancient though it is. But starched, you can’t tell. If this curtain could talk!
When I first moved to the Island I brought lace tablecloths from California and made bedroom curtains from them. This curtain watched me write my first book! It saw Joe and I fall in love! It’s the last survivor of them all and I am babying it.
Section-by-section, I remove dishes from the shelves, put them in the dishwasher, wash the shelves and put them back. The last time I did this was last fall . . . We’ll be gone two months and if I didn’t do it now, by the time we get home, this would probably reach out and slap me the moment I walked in the door. It’s all sparkly now, and I’m a proud mommy.
As for spring, we’ve had a week of anything but, including rain storms, huge winds, and giant clumps of snow.
Can you see it out there? It’s all melted now, but we’ve even had fires and made chicken stock. Gathering in the last bits of winter.
Y U M
With just a soupçon suggestion of spring . . . because my kitchen is my favorite place.
We stopped by the nursery before the rain started . . . very cheery . . . the juxtaposition between the indoors and the out!
Between snow drops and rain yesterday, I ran out and took pictures because oh yes, it is coming. Yellow is the rightest color for spring. ♥
Unless it’s pink. The buds for the magnolia and cherries are fat and swollen and ready to pop on the first sunny day. And we’ll still be here to make one of these bouquets. ♥
Oh yes, and hang some laundry on the line. Fluff the quilts. We are happy!
I do think we will miss this . . . the Beauty Bush will have to bloom without us here to see it.
And likely we will be too late for this when we get home in July. Definitely the peonies will be long gone. But if it gets nice before we go, I will be planting the garden the best I can so it will be pretty when we get back. Home. My favorite place. Home, without a book to write, just a house to clean, a stove to cook things on, and a garden to dig in? Oh, you know, I am so looking forward to that.
And these guys. I will miss them. Hardest thing of all to say goodbye to. Because I’m afraid they will think I’m abandoning them. But I’m NOT.
B E L O V E D
HOWEVER, there is a lovely exchange . . . I get to go see everyone, and put faces to the lovely comments I’ve received from my Girlfriends while creating books . . . As I’ve mentioned, there can be a real loneliness to book writing . . . but you make it much more bearable! So, as usual, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you are going to one of the signings, be sure to wear your Fairy Tale Girl Badge so we can know each other . . . You can get it Here . . .
And Lookit how cute you are.♥ I can’t wait. . . The funnest book signings in the world are what I get to go to. Joe loves them too. And we didn’t get to go for The Fairy Tale Girl . . . we stayed home so I could finish Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams. This photo was taken back in 2013 when we went for A Fine Romance . . . so this next book signing adventure is actually a double whammy.
This was from the tea party in Wilamette (near Chicago) in 2013, and we’re going back for another one! Who wouldn’t! These people are so happy because they have just been given the best tea in the world, cakes and everything! I’m telling you, I have the best Girlfriends! ♥
So often, it’s a family affair, mom’s and daughters and sisters come together . . . LOVE it.
You all know Chris Wells from Texas who leaves such nice comments on the Blog? There she is (on the left) in Ohio with her whole family! I have no words for how honored I felt that they came to see me.♥
And some of my California Girlfriends . . . came from Palo Alto to San Luis Obispo. Honored again! ♥
So yes, I’m doing this . . . lots of it. Not that it’s helping in any visual way, but I’m feeling pretty perky on the inside with lots of energy, despite the ravages of time fully developed on the outside. Whatever.
Mas MUSICA
And I got this sent off to the printer . . . It’s the 30th Anniversary Edition of Heart of the Home with lots of new pages and art and recipes. SO exciting. The endpapers in the first book were blank, so I got to decorate them for this book, and lots of other things . . . and of course this one will have a nice bright red ribbon. I can’t help it. I have always loved books with ribbons.
And I did a cute ad for Yankee Magazine . . . for the May-June issue. AND, I got an entertainment lawyer to work out the details on the option for the three books for either a movie or a TV series! Remember that? It is still sort of happening! I don’t think it WILL happen, because it’s just too crazy, but it still could! It hasn’t fallen through yet, and until it does, I intend to enjoy the heck out of it! The first thing the lawyer asked me was who I wanted to play me. That’s how I knew I would like him. Those are the fun questions!
And I invited my Island girlfriends to a TGIT (uesday) Birthday Party next week ~ because it’s my birthday and I get to give THEM presents, which they deserve for having such a terrible MIA girlfriend like me for so long. I promise to be better (as soon as I get home!). 🙂 Oh well.
And look, somedays I even find this on Amazon. Not always, but sometimes, and it definitely cheers me up! And this is because of you too, don’t think I don’t know it. We are all word of mouth Girlfriends, this I know. And I love that we are selling the book for less than they are! And ours our signed. Ha! And we have them, but they don’t! Oh the power. Proud mommy. And then, yesterday… this happened:
Oh yeah . . . the books came to the Island. And today, the books arrive in California and the mailing BEGINS!!!
And this is the first thing you will see when you open your book . . .
Here they are on my table . . . I’m signing them for my brothers and sisters and best friends, and Tuesday Girls, and Diana, and Publisher’s Weekly and Little, Brown and everyone I have known for the last half century.
My kitchen is now complete. It’s a strange feeling to see the book actually here. But a good one. And the other thing I’m doing is signing SIX of them for giveaways to YOU, right NOW. So this is your moment to leave a comment. ♥ If you already bought a signed book from us, that’s okay, this one will be personalized to you, with your own name, and you can give the other one to your best friend. It’s a win-win!
And Joe had a good idea . . . he said that I should save my worn-out paintbrushes, the ones I used to paint Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams with and give them away with these books, along with one of my paint-blotters-turned-bookmark. So each book in this Giveaway will have a paintbrush and a signed bookmark . . . So sign yourself up for the drawing by leaving a comment below . . . I already warned Vanna about the extra workload of drawing SIX names this time, poor girl. She’ll need a vacation in Cannes after this one! Love you Girls, Happy Spring! Still working on fabric and Willard! . . . talk soon!
Susan, Susan, I am on page 179 of Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams. I am so in love with your story that I’m already worried WHAT will I do when I’ve finished reading the whole book? Geeze I am savoring each chapter not allowing myself to read too much at one time just like having the absolute best chocolate trying to make it last as long as possible. Thank you for writing this book. Your friend from Louisville, Ky. Jacilyn
Thank you so much darling person Jacilyn! I have some cheery thoughts about the future . . . in my new Willard (newsletter) coming out next week. So stay tuned. Happy reading!!! xoxo
Looking forward to seeing you in Cincinnati!
I am reading Isle of Dreams. You are so you, so real in your writing. I should have made a list of all the things you said that made me think, “me too.” I just ordered an ex library copy of Bartlett’s Quotations. I too love quotations and keep a notebook of them. Do you have Zig Zigler’s book of Great Quotes? It is on my wish list at Amz. He seems like a wise person. Loving your book, safe travels to you and Joe.
I forgot to say, I live 45 miles from Mark Twains Boyhood home in Hannibal Missouri, AND there is a wonderful fabric shop down the street from his house. The Hickory Stick. If you are passing near by I hope you can stop. I have a book of his quotes and when at Pennsbury Manor in PA bought one of Wm Penn’s quotes. Safe journey.
Beautiful and ever quirky and whimsical. Can’t wait to pore over this latest offering. Happy belated birthday from a fellow April 12ther! Cheers, and thanks.
I’m popping in to say “I LOVED your book” – !!!!! I tried to savor by reading slowly but I read it in 3 days. Honestly, I wanted to jump into the book! Now I’m re-reading Heart of the Home and Vineyard Seasons. So excellent! WOW! My heart is full.
Forgot to say, “Hello to Blog – so Handsome – Daddy….. He gets credit for starting this amazing phenomenon. So fun! See you soon!
Finished the book last night. My favorite of all your books. Loved how you brought that little house to life and also how it healed you. Dune buggy man made me cry laughing! This book is perfection. Don’t know how you will follow up!
Susan, Your book arrived three days ago. After opening the packaging and it laying on my kitchen table I just stared at it! I was afraid to pick it up and start reading as I knew I wouldn’t put it down and when I did…be sorry it was over. My oh my, what a good read. I cried in spots but mostly laughed (refrigerator white coat) but found inspiration in a life figuring it out. You have done a good job! Thank you for sharing all that you are. Bobbie from Spokane
P.S. Thinking of taking a trip on the train to attend one of your book signings…we’ll see.
Oh it does my heart good to see a new post on your blog! It brings such joy to my day. Thank You so much for being you!
Dear Susan,
I just purchased a signed copy of your new book for my sweet mother’s 85th birthday present! We are both big fans of your work and have been for many years. Thank you for your book series, each one is truly a work of art and heart!!
Warm regards,
Kathy
You keep getting better with age! I love your new publication. I would love to receive it for my cousin Maryann who has a love of Martha’s Vineyard! I have Martha’s Vineyard on my places to visit. Hope to visit you soon! Congratulations on your anniversary! Put your feet up and rest a while! You deserve it!
Ditto to Jacilyn’s comment. Trying not to read too much at one time to make it last. I am an insomniac so I read at night and take little cat naps. Thanks to you, I have been having lovely dreams while napping taking me back to those days. Love what you did with that little cottage. You had so many talents even at that young age. Thank you for your story!
Dear Susan,
OMG, finished your book! The first night I received it I skimmed all the pages, stopping here and there to get a taste of adventures to come. Now I have read your entire incredible story and devoured every last word, what an awesome journey you have had (thus far)! OK, now I’m going back to read it again, just too much to absorb in one reading. How I loved your little cottage (your refuge from the the world) and the wonderful changes you made to it! I wish you continued love, happiness and many more successes to come!
Thank you Merci! I’m SO glad you liked it!
I so enjoyed the ‘enchanting’ Isle of Dreams. Laugh and cry almost on the same page …..and you’ve given me the spark and inspiration to be more brave about moving into the future with a dream. Take care and have a wonderful trip. -r-
Susan,
Is there any chance of ever getting out to Arizona?
Regards,
Karen Balck
We’ll be in Prescott for an absolutely WONDERFUL tea party and book signing… June 11 at 1pm. You can read more about it in EVENTS in the right hand column of my blog. Love being able to say yes to questions like yours!!
White bunting, willow trees, croquet, book talk, girlfriends, gloves, hats, bone china, fairy cakes, hearts, 1902 home, gazebo, porches, books, library, musica, secret garden, Joe Hall, Susan Branch ♥
**B*E*S*T**T*E*A**P*A*R*T*Y**E*V*E*R**
Hi Susan, I just want to say that you’re my favorite. Thank you for sharing your art. It makes my heart happy.
All My Best,
Angie in Tennessee
Out in California, Spring has already come and sadly gone. It was fun to know that you still have that all to experience. You have prompted me to do a little Spring Cleaning myself….I love the look and feel of freshly starched and ironed whites..I will have to get mine out. Looking forward to hearing about the road trip, hope to see you in California.
When my book arrived, I started reading it immediately. Then, I realized if I didn’t slow down, I’d have it finished in one sitting, and I didn’t want that to happen, so I put it down. It was hard to put down. I had to use “self control”!
I emailed two of my other girlfriends whom I knew also had ordered the book, and asked them what page they were on! Yes,we are all nutty for all things SB.
The next day, I finished reading your wonderful book! I loved it soooo much. I hope your trilogy is made into a movie! I am so glad you kept diaries.
Loved the quotes around “self control” ~ heard of it, but really, what IS it? 🙂 Thank you Colleen, so nice of you to write! xoxo
oh, my goodness!! wow. I’ve just finished….well, what could I do but pick up this brand new, lovely, wonderful, “heart-ful” book after trying to put it down for a minute…..could not leave it down….HAD to keep reading and just absorb it all. what did I love MOST????? hmmm. good ????. sooooo hard to choose a favorite. Agnes, Ellie, Myron, Carlton, Jane, Diana, Mom & Dad, Mary and all @ Little-Brown, the young lady who wrote the first fan-letter, Joe. wow. and, YOU. your heart, your sweet, sweet heart. gotta go fetch a tissue. still quite misty. thank you. and…a belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! and, many happy, healthy returns of the day. you are LOVED. thank you.
Thank you so much Chris! xoxoxo
Dear Susan,
Happy Belated Birthday! I hope you (and Gladys!) had a lovely day filled with friends, flowers, happiness and love. I’m almost halfway through Isle of Dreams, and am loving it. You have such an amazing way of reaching into our souls and articulating exactly what we all want: a simple, happy life filled with beauty, love and joy. Your books, blogs, and illustrations bring a smile and song to my heart. Thank you!
And how about Texas? Will you dip down our way on your journey across “your land,” “my land,” “our land”?
Yes, indeed, we’re going to Austin! For the first time and really looking forward to it! Check out the EVENT schedule in the right-hand column of the blog for details.
At Simpson & Vail Inc. which sells all kinds of teas they have a Beatrix Potter’s Herbal Tisane Blend! It is based on her mention of herbs in The Tale of Peter Rabbit. If you get a chance to taste it let us know what you think,
Hi Susan.. I received your new book last week and have already read it! Loved… Loved…. Loved every minute of it. Now… I started reading Fine Romance for the second time and then I’m quite sure I will follow that with Fairy Tale again! I’m trying to discover if I missed you writing when you and Joe left Holly Oak and moved to your home you share now… I am so amazed with what you have accomplished in your life and I thank you for sharing it with us! I have every one of your books and when I need an attitude fixer I read one and it always cheers me up! I admire your interests in life and it makes me happy you found Joe and are living happily ever after!… ( you deserve it)… I’m in Tulsa Ok area. Event here, I hope!
You didn’t miss it . . . Joe and I lived at Holly Oak until 1989, then he found the house we live in now, because Holly Oak was too small for a big guy like Joe, plus it was nice to start over on even ground, not my house, not his, we moved to where we live now. SO happy you liked the book! Sweet of you to tell me!
I loved the book, read my husband many of my favorite parts. I hope that you will consider visiting Ivy Green, home of Helen Keller (one of your heroes) when you are on the road between Memphis and Georgia on your book tour. Located in Tuscumbia, Alabama, it is two and one- half hours out of Memphis. It is a darling home with a lot of history and artifacts. You will be so close I would not want you to miss it!
I would love to win a signed copy of your book…I have many of them…I am also about ready to read a Fine Romance again…you have brought me many happy hours reading and looking through your books….and I still have fabric that I purchased years ago….I’m in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and waiting for you to visit our city! Carol
I love this book. It makes me want to go there.
Susan, I really hope I haven’t missed the contest! As someone that loves to paint, I would cherish that paintbrush! 🙂
I am in love with the cover page, the map of Martha’s Vineyard!
Have a wonderful book signing trip, I can’t wait to hear of all your adventures.
Dear Susan!
Happy, happy belated birthday! Hope you celebrated in style with your friends. My hubby, John, shares an April 12 birthday with you and we had a fun evening with friends who came over to celebrate the day! Always such fun! Can’t wait to read Isle of Dreams and also get the newly expanded Heart of the Home. I have the original, but anxious to get the revised one, too. Hope the spring cleaning is going well as you get ready to pack up and head out on your book tour soon.
Thinking of you and sending good wishes your way!
Nancye Tuttle
Wells, Maine (where spring is really starting to arrive!)
Dearest Susan, I just received my book yesterday and I am almost finished with it. I can not put it down and the same thing happened to me with A fine Romance and Fairy Tale girl. I have been a huge fan of your work since I stumbled upon a cute shop in Arroyo years ago on my 25th birthday. I immediately fell in love. My first book of yours was Girlfriends. I went to the book signing at Remnants of the Past a few years after that and got to meet you in person. I almost died! You know how giddy you were with the Beatles?? that’s how I was when I got to meet you. You continue to inspire me! I can not wait until your Pasadena book signing in June. I live in Murrieta so that’s not a bad drive to make and it’s all so worth it. Thank you for being true to yourself and for making books that inspire and touch so many people. You are a huge blessing to me!
Susan, Love, Love, Love, this book. Inspiring! Bought one for my mom & sister and can not wait share. To say I’m addicted is putting it mildly.
Building my own fairy tale world!!! Thanks you so much
I am soo enjoying this book.
Good Morning! I’ve been having troubles with my computer – ACK – when I worked, I had an IT guy to fix these things for me!!!! I tried to send you a few notes earlier and feared you wouldn’t know how I LOVED your new book. I wanted to jump into it like a Harry Potter! (I know – weird…..I love him too.) I read it quickly and tried so hard to go slow but it was too scrumptious and I just could not help myself….Also want to say hi to Blog Daddy! See you soon – looking forward to meeting you in person. Happy Belated Birthday to you!
The new book is wonderful! I am taking it slow and enjoying all your moments and I realize some of your moments are just like mine. I felt the same way about my home the first time I walked into it, I discovered Gladys by accident at my library and now own most of her books, and everything you do in making a home and life special I have tried to do. Your books have the power to make me feel so good! Thank you for inviting all of us into your life. Hugs, Kit
I absolutely loved my new book! Your isolation therapy was amazing to read….how you went from having your entire world smashed up and in the ashes, to being so happy and finding new love and discovering who YOU were all about. Cliff went from being a dirty dog to a guardian angel…..and that was funny to read about! I am so glad you kept fighting to remain true to yourself! I will treasure this book forever! xoxoxo
Hi Susan 🙂
Thanks for your beautiful and fun blogs!!! Have especially enjoyed the pictures which give us a peak into your wonderful Island world as well as your yummy recipes. Your delight in Spring housecleaning is a good encouragement for the rest of us to pick up the window cleaner & wash the curtains so our homes can sparkle in the sunshine.
Wishing you another safe and delightful trip across the country and looking forward to reading your new book. Thanks for using your gifts to bring joy to so many.
Sarah from Chincoteague,VA
Oh Susan,
I just put down your book. Finished. I tried to go slow. Really I did. I read each quote, soaked in the photos and paintings… got up to make the girls breakfast, pack their lunch boxes, fix dinner, do laundry, and teach in my little elementary school. But this book took over my thoughts. I couldn’t wait to get back to it. I’ve read them all now. First the third, then the third again. Then the first, then the first two more times waiting for the second to come out. My husband is teasing me. “What are you going to do next? Read right into the third or start at the first and read them in order now?” So much to figure out! Thank you for sharing your life, your story, your inspiration.
Can you please just tell me one thing? What happened to Holly Oak? I know you don’t live there anymore. (i’ve been a blog reader for a long time) Did you have a hard time selling it? I can’t imagine. How did you find the house you are in now? I just have to know. It’s the missing piece.
Congratulations Susan. It was simply an “enchanting” read.
~tara baker
So much to figure out, and you really need to be good at math to do it! 😜 When Joe came into my life, my little house just wasn’t big enough for him. His head almost brushed the low ceilings. So he went out and found us the one we’re in now. It wasn’t hard because this house (the one we’re in now) is so old and wonderful too. We got it in 1989. I sold Holly Oak to my girlfriend Elizabeth (she was a stranger then, but then we shared the house) . . . then she sold it to the person who has it now, who has done lots of adding on. I do miss it, and if I could get it back, I definitely would. Thank you so much, I’m thrilled you are enjoying the books and getting the whole story now!
Love, love your work and the inspiration of watercolors! I’m new to your blog, and will hunt down this book!
I enjoy all your books and your blog!! Looking forward to reading Isle of Dreams.
Had hoped to meet you in Iowa or Missouri but scheduling conflicts keep me away. Maybe next year….In the meantime, will see you in your blog. Have a great road trip!
Oh my goodness…I received my book a few days ago and have already devoured it!!! I love it too!! I knew I would. Now I need to search for a book signing to attend. I’d love to meet you!! Enjoy these first days of Spring and rest up for your Road Trip.
I cannot wait for the 30th Anniversary edition of Heart of the Home
I have personally enjoyed this cookbook for 30 years…your recipes
are fabulous and easy to follow. I love your drawings and your
quotes. I have given this cookbook to every one of
my girlfriends, as it is the perfect girlfriend gift. Safe travels on your
journey…wish you were coming to Columbus, Ohio. I do come to the Cape
every summer, so maybe our paths will cross one day.
“Love the life you live”…Put on your pearls girls and have
A wonderful weekend.
Susan — thank you for the inspiration and girl hugs. I look forward to every post and love experiencing a part of your life (albeit virtual!). Happy Trails!
Have you already had the giveaway? I don’t have my book yet. I can’t wait to get it! Hope to see you in SoCal.
Susan, almost 3500 comments! I had to let you know that I received your book in the mail two hours ago, and just put it down to let you know that you are just amazing to write these books. I think every one of your girlfriends can relate in one way or another to your life experiences that you write about. I just LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your story! Now, before I get back to your book, I must tell you that our Westfield Library had a book sale today and I found 4 Gladys Taber books for $1 each!!! Then, got home and received your Isle of Dreams…………am I a lucky gal or what!…….I will be reading for the rest of the week-end. Thank you for all that you do…..I’m amazed by you! See you in Madison CT!! xoxo
SCORE! Good for you Ann Jane. They could not have gone to a more perfect person! See you in CT!
It is such a pleasure and so much fun to read your books, as well as your blog.
I would be so thrilled to win one of the books and paint brushes. WOW!!
That would be so nice. I have already ordered one and I am sure it is in
the mail to me now. If I were to win, I would share with my sister. She
understands my love of reading.
I can’t wait for your next trip to England, you make it so real, I almost feel
like I am there. Thanks for all your posts and the love of home that you share
with your readers and God Bless Joe for being such a good husband and wonderful friend.
Hi Susan, and thanks so much for your warm and fuzzy book(s)…every time I open one of your books, I make the voyage to the table with my teacup and lap blanket in hands. Your books warm my heart ad soul, and have since the very first year I began journaling in ‘Days’. On my bookshelves, I have years of Days – my favorites decorated with glittery and glistening ribbons and multicolored pens. You don’t remember me but I remember meeting you at QVC…thank you so much for signing every one of my books. Even Baby Love! Your life is a blessing to so many. Your words fill the heart, the sweet spaces still open to every good thing.
Enjoy your trip across country and I love, love, love “Isle of Dreams”….blueberries too!
Can’t wait to read your new sequel, just lovely as all your books have been !! Love your spring cleaning, and sprucing up and just making your home so inviting! All such good advice and just so lovely!!
Hi Susan,
I’m sorry, I just read the comment above mine and you answered the question. I bet it was soooo hard to leave
Hello Susan,
I’d be thrilled to win a book, let alone a paint brush of yours! What a terrific idea! Love, love, love the blog. You have such a wonderful spirit that shines through your posts! I can see why you have such a great following!
I am a southern California girl and loved your other books. Have not gotten the newest one so am hoping Vanna will pick me. You have inspire me to do some painting and I have taken a couple of classes and truly love doing it so it would be fun to have your paint brushes!
Your special artwork and quotes brighten up my day! Thank you for sharing all you do!
Susan, thank you for sharing your blessings♥
Congratulations! I know you are over the moon about your “baby” making it in the world. Happy Trails (loved Roy Rogers) to you and Joe as you make your way across the country. May all your book signings be fabulous.
Thank you so much Linda!. . . xoxo Happy Trails.
OK – this is CRAZY!!!!!!! You cannot believe how many things you did and liked that was clearly EXACTLY what I went through as well!! I LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK!! Right down to the Stouffers Creamed Chip Beef – and I said to myself (out loud cause no one else is in the house but me) OMG – I love CCB and I totally forgot how much I loved it!! So I put on my shoes, got in the car and went in search of it – only had to go to 2 stores – and there it was!! Drove home and immediately fixed a favorite – and it was FABULOUS! Then there is the cabin story – so like my story when I found my little UGLY – but beautiful – little cabin on the corner – I knew it was mine and Fred bought it for me! Now I have dressed it up and made it mine and it is FABULOUS! I could go on and on. Girlfriend – I just love this book. I loved the others as well BUT this has to be my favorite. Thank you Thank you Thank you for bringing me back to life! And I think you know what I mean……….YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!
YUMEEEE! Joe did the exact same thing when I read that part to him. Out the door, to the Chipped Beef on Toast department of our local grocery store! I am SO happy you like the book. Your natural joie de vivre, that leaks out of every comment you make, would never have let you be anything but YOU. You Go Girl. xoxo
I received your book today wow! I ordered it on the 13th boy! that was quick. I started reading it tonight can’t put it down!!! it’s a wonderful book I have all your current books and many of others that you have written I re-read them often I can’t get enough. Thank you Susan for such wonderful and positive books
I know you just finished this book but, I can’t wait for your next one!!!
LOL. You are so sweet Cynthia, thank you!!!! You have no idea how much your words mean to me. I’m SO happy you enjoyed it! I was thinking about writing a novel, a story of what it would be like for Ellie to grow up in England with her sisters. But I probably won’t. Anyway, right now, I’m just going out to be inspired myself, and then we’ll see. XOXOXOXO
Dear Susan
For the past two years you´ve been an inspiration to me. I finally started my blog, I´m learning to paint in watercolors, and painting my own recipes!
I live in Argentina, I have 15 rescued dogs, and thought I could never have a cat again, but a little kitten appeared in my garden two months ago. I tried to find a family for her, unsuccessfully, so I taught my dogs to be careful with her… It´s unbelievable, this little “Mignon” (as I call her) is the baby of the house now, even the dogs take care of her!!! It´s a dream come true to watch them all together, animals never ceases to amaze me… So now, I have a kitten two!! Hahaha
If you ever see my blog, I hope you can see what I´ve done as a compliment.
God bless you, Susan, every step of the way. You are a beacon of light.
Sincerely,
Barbara
I’m proud of you Barbara, proud of your work on behalf of darling animals. Thank you so much. Happy new Kitty to you and the doggies! All my good wishes go with you! xoxo
Your new book is absolutely brilliant. Another true inspiration and testament to hope, self-determination, and making dreams come true! As soon as I finished reading it, I had to go back and re-read The Fairy Tale Girl and A Fine Romance. What a treasure trove of inspiration and creativity for us all. Thank you for these gifts of wisdom and insight for us all. I cannot wait for the expanded edition of Heart of the Home as it is one of my all time favorite cookbooks and it has served me well over many years of use! Thank you again for so much inspiration and pleasure from all of your books.
Thank YOU Minette for the kind words . . . I am so happy you liked the books! xoxo
I can’t wait to receive my books….one for me and one for my traveling daughter. We have been fans of yours since your first book and still can’t wait to see what your beautiful talent will come up with next. Belated “happy birthday” wishes Susan ….I hope your day was as special as you are 🙂
I had a lovely day, and a lot due to all the wonderful wishes here on the blog! Thank you Barbara, hello to your traveling daughter!
Well I am a little late leaving a comment but I have been out of touch due to certain circumstances beyond my control….I would LOVE a book and if I don’t get one for free I’ll end up ordering one anyway. We all love everything you say and do Susan! What an inspiration you are. I was in a new building a few weeks ago and a gentleman was getting his mail from his mail box and holding your first book! I said do u know SB and he said no but I am reading her first book because we are going to England this summer and following her journey! I said I have all her books and they are terrific! Small world! Love to you always!
Small world is right! Very happy to see you here Carol!
Happy Spring, dear Susan! Eager to read your latest book!!
Dear Susan,
Just finished reading Isle of Dreams. What a wonderful story of inspiration, love and laughter too. Looking forward to meeting you in New Hope, PA in May. My sister and I are so looking forward to that tea and your book signing. We will be the two in the fancy spring hats!! Happy Spring and safe travels💕😊
I received my book and am so looking forward to reading it. I love all your stuff, Susan! Thanks for all you do. A fan in the mountains of North Carolina along the North Fork of the New River. Joan
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the new book!!! Tried so hard to read slowly, with no success. I’m ready to re-read the first two books of the trilogy (for the fourth time each) and book three for the second time in order to enjoy the full effect. Susan, I love the way you write, you plunk the reader right into your life..immensely enjoyed finding out about how you became you. Laughed out loud in SO many places, cried in others, nodded in agreement often, shook my head in amazement. You are just too talented. Each page of every book you write is so chock full of such lovely detail..borders, illustrations, photos, quotes, recipes, beautiful handwritten script..SIGH..and the ribbon in ‘Martha’s Vineyard’ is my very favorite color! Who could ask for more? (Me! Another book, please!) You are such a treasure. I’m babbling! Sincere congratulations. Looking forward to seeing you again in Kansas City.
Lovely Jeni, thank you SOOO much for your kind words!!! Everything I hoped and prayed the book would be/do. xoxoxoxo