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805-474-5836

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please contact Kellee Rasor
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To Send Susan Snail Mail:
Susan Branch
PO Box 2463
Vineyard Haven, MA
02568

Kellee
and Judy-
Just another day at the office!

Write us at
Susan Branch Studios
PO Box 1468
San Luis Obispo, CA 93406

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359 Responses to Contact Us

  1. Danella Farrell says:

    Following the storm news and thinking of you. Hoping and praying that you are all safe.

  2. Mary Jo Franske says:

    My husband can always tell when I’ve read your blog. I use “Susan-speak” for days! Have you ever read something English…something like September by Rosamunde Pilcher and you walk around the house spouting of heather and wet dogs? Well, the same thing happens! I love your descriptions of wind. you are as much a writer as and artist. And you take beautiful photos as well. Aren’t you just pleased as punch that you are able to do what you love and what you are created to do? I am!

    -Mary Jo

    • lynn c maust says:

      Great letter!

    • sbranch says:

      Anne Frank wrote: “If I read a book that impresses me, I have to take myself firmly by the hand before I mix with other people; otherwise they would think my mind rather queer.” So you aren’t alone! Such a sweet compliment. Thank you Mary Jo!

  3. Terri says:

    Please tell me when the Happy Birthday fabric will be available to purchase BTY. I am currently busy embroidering the outer border on the Bluebird Quilt and love the Susan Branch designs.
    Terri McGreer

    • sbranch says:

      I’m so sorry Terri but the Birthday fabric was canceled — actually, I ended the relationship with the company making it, they were pressuring me to put it at Wal-Mart, and that’s just not what I was willing to do … so, again, finding the right partner for this is always the problem. Maybe in the future . . . thank you for asking!

      • Jeanne Wilbur says:

        Way to go for standing your ground re: Wal-Mart! I would have never seen your fabric there anyway, since I avoid the big W-M at all cost.

        • sbranch says:

          Me too, it’s been a bone of contention from the beginning, licensees and agents pressure artists to go there, it’s hard not to!!

  4. Bernadette Gibson says:

    Will you ever get the Santa rug and pillow in stock. I have wanted both for years! Please let me know!
    Thank you.

    • sbranch says:

      No, I am so sorry, all of the rugs and pillows were just a one-time-thing . . . when they’re gone, they’re gone. I know, he was a good one, but he went way too fast. Watch ebay, you never know!

  5. Denise Jose says:

    Susan;
    Thank you so much for your inspiring Blog. It ALWAYS makes me smile. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

  6. Mercy says:

    Can we still get a copy of CHRISTMAS Heart of the Home. I can’t give mine up and would love my granddaughters to have one each.

  7. Karen says:

    Is this where I leave a note about the wreath? I get your email but did not get this one today. I don’t know why.

    1st… I love that cat. He is soooo cute. I love the stories you write about him. I can just see him swing a paw at the Bird tree and Jack seems to like the camera………….

    2nd… I love the banners you made. They are all beautiful……….

    3rd…. I love the wreath your hubby made. Let me tell you I wish i was as talented as you. I just love everything.

  8. lESA says:

    ..every time I see Jack I almost squeel…he’s so adorable…..
    I love the new decorations, and I can hardly wait til next year for the article to come out…thank goddness you are keeping us updated!
    the bird tree is a super idea…I too colect sm bird items (some ornaments, but lots of sm 50″ish salt and pepper sets)…the colors are great….
    you can never have enough birds!
    much lov,
    Lesa

  9. Loretta says:

    Hello Susan….OMG…I loved your blog today! The wreath Joe made is beautiful!! It looks so good with all your other beautiful decorations! And your kitty is getting so big and pretty!! I love the bird tree…..I think I’m going to try to make one for my Aunt Betty. She loves birds, and goes out on her deck to feed them each morning. The tree will be perfect for her. Take care….so enjoy seeing and reading about what you and Joe are up to! Loretta/Calif.

  10. Michelle Rodriguez says:

    Susan, thank you so much for bringing back so many wonderful memories of growing up in So. Cal. I grew up in Garden Grove in the 60s and 70s,and experienced all that you described, from floating down storm-flooded streets in homemade rafts to weekends spent at Big Bear. I often tell my kids and friends stories of how in 8th and 9th grade, we would ride our bikes the eight miles to Huntington Beach and be gone the entire day! No one seemed to worry, then. I also had the same wonderful experience of relocating to an area of the country with four seasons (Indianapolis) and, like you, the dawning of each season never ceases to bring wonder and excitement.

    Many thanks for sharing your wonderful talent, passion, and life with me since I first discovered your handpainted recipes in Country Living Magazine in 1989.

    Best wishes for a wonderful Christmas season!

    • sbranch says:

      That’s so true, we were free as birds. Only had to be home in time for dinner. Lucky world we grew up in. Thank you Michelle!

  11. Paula Gulley says:

    It’s always a treat to see your name in my Inbox. Thank you for making the days more merry! Paula

  12. Vicki Whipple says:

    Reading your cookbooks and now your blog is always inspiring

  13. Sue Goodell says:

    From a lover of all things whimsical, thank you for all of your inspiration. All year round I add bits and pieces of whimsy around the house that make my visitors, my children, and my husband smile. I see that it has spead to my college aged daughter as she recently sent me pictures of her dorm room adorned with handmade paper snowflakes hanging all over her ceiling! Thank you for making me smile.

  14. Loretta says:

    Hi, Susan….Merry Christmas Eve! Oh…..I loved reading your blog today….love all the houses and stories behind them. Your first home was darling! What a great place for you to write and enjoy the days. I too love older homes. They are so quaint and have so much charm to them. I love your home you have now….and the wood room! Your home is so inviting…..I could walk right in and feel completely at home! Well, today is Christmas Eve….hard to believe. The time goes by so quickly. I wish a very Merry Christmas to you and Joe and the kitties of course! May 2013 be a very prosperous and healthy year for you. Take care…. loretta/Calif.

  15. Wendy McMonagle says:

    Help! I’m trying to continue my tradition of the past six years using the Susan Branch Christmas Memories Scrapbook and can’t find them anywhere! Is anyone able to give me advice as to where I could find one or two or three? Thanks for your time!

  16. Rosie herdman says:

    I SIGNED UP FOR YOUR BLOG SEV. MONTHS AGO, DID SO AGAIN TONITE, REC. OLD ONE AND I HAVE TO CLICK ONTO IT TO GET NEW ONES.

    WHAT GIVES.

    sO LOVE YOUR BLOG.

    ROSIE IN CT.

    • sbranch says:

      I wish I was computer smart enough to tell you Rosie! But I only know my half of this thing, sorry to say! Love to have you here!

  17. Joye Gulley says:

    I would so love to win a copy of your new book, it sounds wonderful. I am a armchair traveler; who loves anything British. Your handwritten comments and drawing always make me feel so peaceful and relaxed.

  18. jan glover says:

    My dear Susan, thank you for ‘opening’ my eyes,again, to the beauty of winter, instead of the lonely dread of another winter day. We live in NW Montana and we are surrounded by mountains and trees. It is so lovely that it takes ones breath away. I had forgotten the excitement of winter and the beauty of snow and wood fires and our babies, all our beloved animals, curled up on us or around us, my hubby of 33 years, who still loves me<3 and so many other blessings. You helped to make me appreciate what I do have
    Thank you so much, Susan. I have loved you since the 90's and all of your works, your drawings, your recipes, your quotes and poems, they all help to make me a better person! Why? Because you have the God given talent to do that and you do it with LOVE from the heart of your home 🙂
    With love from mu heart to yours, Jan Glover or AKA: granny janny from montanny 😀

  19. Jill Biatek says:

    What a great way to start my day with the colorful email! I am so excited about the new book…..would love to win one! ;). I love England, Tea and Travel and of course your beautiful writings and paintings. I am a California girl too, but live in the Midwest now. Thank you for sharing so much with us….. It brightens our lives!

    Sincerely,
    Jill (Biatek) in Minnesota

  20. Linda Nusbaum says:

    I noticed in your blog that the new “Willard” had been sent, but I did not receive it. I signed up for it on the link on the web site and would love to receive it. What to do now?
    Wishfully,
    Linda in Mims, Florida

    • sbranch says:

      I’m sort of giving it all a chance … if you haven’t gotten it by tomorrow, please, let me know — look in your spam file, often when they are lost, they go there.

  21. Paula Gulley says:

    Loved the pictures of Jack’s feet! Your description of the weather makes a snowstorm sound wonderful, but I’d rather look at pictures of the snow from your window. For my Valentine’s Day (a couple weeks ago, but still), I adopted a little homeless kitten found in an abandoned building. His name is Ripley-believe it or not! Thank you for always brightening my day. 🙂

  22. Joan Lesmeister says:

    Mornin Ladies! I still didn’t get Willard, I’ll wait a few more days, then sign up again! Thanks, Sue, for Twittering the connection! Loved Willard! xoxo

  23. Lynn Pinda says:

    I love and treasure my copies of your cookbooks, calendars and all your beautiful artwork inside them. I can’t wait for your new book!

  24. Gail says:

    This is my first time participating in your blog. I have been reading your Willard and blog for a long time though. (I also actually met you in Anaheim when you spoke at a Quilters Guild meeting :))
    My husband and I were on a Valentines Getaway this weekend to Pismo Beach when your Willard arrived in my email. I’ve read your Willard a couple of times out loud to my husband while driving in the car and this time the Willard arrived just as we were pulling off to get a bite to eat in Arroyo Grande on Branch Street. I’m not kidding!! Right?!! Serendipity for real. I explained that you actually live part time in SLO too. Now that I see you are going to be doing a book signing there in November, we may have to plan another getaway then. Maybe I’ll win your new book in the drawing too.
    Keep the blogs coming. They are a ton of fun to read! Oh yes, and thank you for introducing us to Honeycrisp apples! Hugs, Gail

  25. Gail Steinmeyer says:

    Hope this works. Gail

  26. Lynn says:

    For a while now, I have admired a floral pottery featured occasionally in your blogs. Today, in the store online, I noticed a teapot in the “Mayflower” pattern. Wait a minute! Now I know why it seemed so familiar. We have a box of Mayflower pieces inherited from my mother -in-law. I really think it is so beautiful. Nice to see it in your pages.

    • sbranch says:

      I love too… managed to collect a set of those dishes — they’re as pretty on a summer table as they are at Thanksgiving.

  27. Roopa says:

    Hi Susan…. I stumbled on ur blog few days ago n Iv been hooked!
    I love ur passion! Im frm India and I can tell u one thing….. tht women, no matter which part of the world we are from….. we are soul sisters!!!! I dunno if u get wht I mean but thts how i feel whn I read ur stuff n see ur art ……. I can connect to the passion!!!!!!!! Have jus placed an order fr ur book… looking ahead to owning a keepsake by u!!!!

    • sbranch says:

      Thank you Roopa, and I couldn’t agree with you more! We are soul sisters. That’s what I love about us. So nice to meet you! xoxo

  28. Judith Ruan says:

    Just a note to say how much I enjoy your blog. I have just returned from three weeks wandering the English countryside and can hardly wait for your book. Your blog reports of your trip were a great inspiration. Have a joyeaous birthday.

  29. Donna in Alabama says:

    Happy Birthday, Susan and my wish for you is that you will please keep dreaming. It is a selfish wish for when your dreams come true you are so kind to share so generously with us all, what happens as your dreams come true. So dream away and keep inspiring us to dream big.
    Donna in Alabama

  30. Cathy Thompson says:

    Hi, I need to change my email address. I’ve been using [email protected] and I would like to change it to the above, [email protected]. How do I go about doing that? Thanks for the help.
    Cathy

    • sbranch says:

      There must be a way, I sent your comment to Kellee, I’m sure she will make the change — are you talking about for WILLARD?

  31. Peggy Harris says:

    Are we going to be able to get a copy of Counting our Blessings Days from the Heart of the Home book? I would love to have one.

  32. Peggy Harris says:

    I clicked on the book Counting our Blessings Day Book and it says out of stock. Are you going to get more and can I pre-order if you are? Thanks

    • sbranch says:

      We will have them in very soon. I don’t think the web store is set up for preorder on that particular book — but I promise more are coming. Sorry, Peggy!

  33. Dolores says:

    I wanted to know if you are on Instagram? I have looked but couldn’t find the real you. I love Instagram best of all the social media apps. It seems right up your alley to combine your pictures and stories. And you can connect to Facebook and Twitter if you want, a one stop shop. And no I am not connected to Instagram in any way (though sure wish I was! ha!).

    Dolores

    • sbranch says:

      I’d love to, I should check into it. I feel like I’m out of time though, like the blog is my baby and I wouldn’t want to neglect it for something else, but also, I hate to miss the Instagram fun too! Thank you Dolores.

      • Dolores says:

        I guess I kind of look at it as a quick note (with pics) to friends in-between blog posts, pretty much like Twitter, just more about the pictures. A lot of blogs I follow use it in that way. And I can never get enough of Jack Pics! 🙂

        • sbranch says:

          I’ll check it out. Maybe I should blog, then do some photos without words, then blog, then do some photos — but all on my blog.

  34. Teri Cardot says:

    Today’s blog from you has prompted me to write you for the first time. I must start by saying how much I enjoy everything you do—the art, the lettering, the photos, the recipes, and most of all, the chit-chat. Just like girlfriends everywhere do.
    Now about the bracelets with glass beads. I live in Southern California, and they are very popular here. In fact my friend Jan makes them and sells them on Etsy, along with many other glass artists. A popular chain of stores is Brighton, which specializes in heart shaped things as well as these bracelets. Some of their beads are as little as $10, $30 is high. You can see them all on their website, Brighton.com.
    So girlfriend, you are not the last to know I’m sure, and you will see lots of them when you hit the road for your book tour—my favorite bookstore, Warwick’s in La Jolla, always has a few for sale. Your audience is thrilled that you know about the things you do, like vacuuming up the dandelion seeds—and we love you for it.

  35. Angela says:

    Your blog is my guilty pleasure and I ADORE the musica you include with each post (have grown particularly fond of that cute bird at the top of the page, as well). Anyway…I didn’t see it, but that doesn’t mean it’s not here–is there a place on your website where all of the musical links live so that we can just click and listen as we’re checking out the rest of the site, not only the blog entries? Thank you so much for being my webfriend on the east coast. LOVE your spirit and that you’ve found your handsome prince and that you’re having such a grand time living “happily ever after.”

    • sbranch says:

      Thank you Angela — and there isn’t a link like that (yet) but almost every other page on the site has a song to go with the page. Rabbit Rabbit, Happy June!

  36. Kathy Brewer says:

    I ordered an Emma B. china mug for my sister for her birthday and we are both so pleased. I wanted to write and thank you for such a beautiful gift. I had it sent directly to her, to not pay postage twice. I was worried because I thought it would just be in a box. Well was I ever wrong. You wrapped it and sent a wonderful card with my personal message to her and a pretty quote. I am just so happy with the service you gave me and wanted you to know that. Also that my sister loves the mug, it is a gorgeous mug. Thank you so very much.

    • sbranch says:

      You’re a doll to tell me — I forwarded your comment to Kellee and Sheri, I’m sure you just made their day! Nice to hear it! Wish your sister a happy birthday for me!

  37. Loretta says:

    Hi, Susan….just finished reading your wonderful Father’s Day story…..oh, it brought back so many memories and made me laugh! We are very close in age, so I truly understood all you were saying. I could just imagine everyone at the dinner table…and picture all the facial expressions you all made while your Dad was talking about the bomb shelter! Yes, those were the days……we knew some people that did have bomb shelters in their yards or built them as a basement in their homes. And had them filled with needs “just in case”!!! Thanks so much for sharing all your wonderful memories and stories. I too love my Dad…he’s going to be 85 this year….and like your Dad….is going strong and the apple of my eye!! Take care…..have a great day…. loretta/Calif.

  38. DeAnna Passmore says:

    Susan! Oh how I’ve missed checking the blog every day! I started working fulltime for a financial institution and studying for my financial license. It was great to get a few minutes to catch up. Thanks for the great Dad story. My Dad is up in heaven and I miss him every day. Father’s Day is a hard holiday for me. Love you all!

  39. Rene' Ruland says:

    Thanks for sharing the Father’s Day Story!!! Funny but as we all remember, it was scary times, and sad to say…scarier!! blessings to you and Joe!!! Hooray for your dad and the swimming pool!!! I so loved hearing that part!!!!
    Rene’ from Golden, CO

  40. Janice Braxton says:

    How I look forward to reading your blogs. Listening to the music while reading about what you are up to, is like talking to a good friend before I start the day. I have various bookmarks sticking from my pile of books beside my bed, since I can’t seem to start and finish one book at a time. Some are cherished cards from friends, or laminated pictures of my children when they were small, as well as various butterfly or ladybug bookmarks. Would love to add Beatrix Potter to my collection!

  41. Maria Sturos says:

    I read your blog awhile ago about Gladys Tabor also read some comments from your friends. I have to tell you I was very interested in reading and seeing the pictures of her and her life. My mother loved her books and my sister and I still read them. Now, recently my younger sister sent me a note on one of your notecards. I was so thrilled that she found your notecards and wrote me little note. She does not even know about you and I am going to tell her to look up your web site. She has the same interest as me and my older sister. We all love nature, both sisters have written poem books. Not me, I’m the less talented one but appreciate everything they love and enjoy. I would like to subscribe to your blog and reading Willard.
    Thank you,
    Maria

  42. Gail Steinmeyer says:

    We are on the same wavelength Susan! (okay, pun intended :)) I just read your blog and listened to your Música. Coincidentally I recently downloaded a free app on my iPhone called “sleepmaker all in one”. I read about it in the Sunday newspaper last week and it’s wonderful! You can play lots of sounds to fall asleep to… Rain, streams, ocean waves, storms, wildlife, white noise, etc. I have to admit the waves with seagulls is not one of their options….but it should be. Thanks for sharing you passion. Gail

  43. Amanda says:

    I can’t tell you how much I love your artwork! I’m so inspired by it all!

  44. Bernadette Gibson says:

    I was so inspired by your trip to England, my daughter and I are going on October 3,2013. I have preordered 3 of your new books and was wondering if they will arrive before we leave. We wanted to take them with us! We want to do so much of what is in the book. Please tell me that we will receive them in time.
    Blessings,
    Bernadette

  45. Judy Pusateri says:

    When I arrived home from Italy Saturday, your book was in the box of mail from the post office- what a wonderful homecoming! I have admired your books, Willards, drawings, recipes and everything Susan Branch since I bought your first cookbook at a little store in Gilbert, AZ many years ago. The chapter on how you and Joe met brought tears – it is so beautiful. Congratulations to you both on such a wonderful relationship.

    Happiness always, Judy

  46. Denise Wysong says:

    Hi, I am having a problem reading the blog entries. The pkgs. of Bob’s red mill flours are repeated all down the page. Am I the only one having this problem? Thanks, Denise

  47. Patti Eckert says:

    I absolutely loved “A Fine Romance” book. I have all your books,and I also give them as gifts for baby showers, wedding showers, ect. They are always a hit! You’ve given me inspiration to keep a journal of my everyday life, so my kids and grandkids might find some fun reading about me someday. 🙂

    your devoted fan, Patti

  48. Paula Gulley says:

    Susan, your books arrived today. I ordered three, one for me! It’s beautiful and I can’t wait to grab a kitty or three and sit down and look through it. The colors and pictures! I think you’ve outdone yourself this time. Thank you! Paula G

  49. Dear Susan,
    Greetings from the Northfork of Long Island on Peconic Bay. I bet you are having the same kind of day we are having here which is almost autumn in feeling and temperature with vivid blues and sunny skies.
    I feel compelled to tell you how much your precious book touched me. I have been following your blog and jivejumping with excitement in anticipation with so many similar feelings about our friends across the pond. As soon as I saw it, I fell in love with the look, feel and size of it. Just the same feeling with Beatrix’s little books. It is just right-a Perfect record of your dream trip. I read it in two sittings and was smitten with every page, drawing and thought. I laughed, I cried, I read portions to my husband, I oohed and ahhed and frankly, I swooned. I will read it again for certain. What a joy.
    Since reading it this weekend, I haven’t ceased humming A Fine Romance to myself. I was so warmed by that romantic, Joe. Your love story is a living dream. You have such a gift for sharing your thoughts and feelings through your words and your art. You graciously let us get to know you and share in your trip of a lifetime. I feel a kindred spirit as this is a trip I have been hoping, wishing and planning (except for the cruising). We lived in London back in 1978 for a year and got engaged there prior to that so it is a special place for us too. I have always wanted to travel all around the countryside and show my husband The Lake District. I too, am a tea loving, Anglophile, appreciator of Arts and Crafts, history-all things British. To see Beatrix’ corner of the world will be a thrill and joy. (I have been collecting the figurines for years too and just hosted a Peter Rabbit Tea for my four grandchildren.) I could feel the emotion in your voice from Hilltop and know it will be the same for me. How lucky you had that garden to yourself. I loved how you knew you were so darned lucky too. What a gal.
    I share a tea blog with Barbara Stype, Lady B’s Time for Tea and as you know, she beat me to posting about your book. I am thrilled we could share it with others who will love it as much as we do. I believe there are a lot of kindred spirits out there.
    You must be so proud and well you should be. You have given us all a lovely, lovely gift. Thank you so very much.
    Xoxo Ruthie Miller, Dame Ruthie from the blog
    Thank you so much for visiting us there. It was a thrill for us to see you there.

    I wrote this on August 5th and sent it to feedback by email but I am not sure you got it. I wrote a review on amazon too. Also wanted to let you know that on our blog, I wrote about a Peter Rabbit Tea I held for my grandchildren that I think you would get a kick out of.
    Thank you again for all the joy you spread!

  50. Jan McLaughlin says:

    I am anxiously awaiting my copy of “A Fine Romance” due here any day! I followed your trip on the QEII and in England and loved every minute of it. I’ve been to England three times, but always with other people and on a set schedule. I would love to travel around as you and Joe did! I really look forward to the book!

    An old fan, Jan McLaughlin in the oldest town in Texas

    p.s. I have been a dedicated fan of your calendars for a long time!

  51. DeAnna Passmore says:

    Oh Susan…I’m so excited! I just made my reservation at a local bookstore to see you! See you in Hudson, OH soon!

  52. Judy Pusateri says:

    Susan,

    I finished your book last week with great reluctance…..I hated to have it end! It makes me want to jump on an airplane and follow your path around England.

    Two of my daughters and I have reservations at Westmoreland Country Club in Wilmette Il for tea and your book signing there on September 12. Can’t wait! It will be so thrilling to meet you after all these years. Just ordered 5 of the recipe books to share with my daughters….they will make a lovely Christmas present – I hope!

    See you soon.

    Judy Pusateri
    Tinley Park Il

  53. Wendy says:

    Hello Susan,

    I have your Homemade recipes book and just ordered more pages to keep up with filling it. I see that you have a book to do one for daughters. Have you ever thought of doing one for sons? Both of my sons love to cook and have begged me to make them each their own cookbooks for when they go off on their own (one will be 18 this year). I was just going to get a book like I have, but it would be special to have one like the daughter book. The kids know just where to find their favorites when we are cooking, or they let me know when to add a new recipe to the book.
    Thanks!

    • sbranch says:

      I would love to do one for boys, but for some reason, the publisher of those books doesn’t think boys want one. I’ve asked several times, and they just say it doesn’t work for them. I don’t understand either.

  54. DeAnna Passmore says:

    Can hardly wait to see you tonite at the Learned Owl in Hudson, OH!

  55. Meg Wills says:

    Dear Susan:
    Yesterday I received your book and today I finished it!
    It made me sigh (yours and Joe’s love story), it made me laugh (the driving in England with numerous roundabouts and narrow lanes) we can relate, and it made me cry as I stood there with you in the gardens of Hill Top and then felt your eventual goodbye to England.
    Born in England and now living in Canada, we made our visit back this year to family, the same time as your vacation last year and trod in your footsteps in a number of places; Broadway in the Cotswolds (best place to buy tea cosies), Chatsworth, a wonderful place.
    Whilst staying with friends in Sussex, we visited Rudyard Kipling’s house in North End and the Elms and sat in Kipling’s gardens in Rottingdean in Sussex, the house before he bought Batemans. We also had terrible weather!! 
    Unfortunately, we did not have time for the Yorkshire dales as we had spent two weeks previous to England, in Provence, France and stayed for a week at a friend of Peter Mayle’s in the La Madone in Apt.
    We spent time in Cornwall, the home of the Piskies (yes, I love fairies too) and our footsteps took us in other directions including Wales.
    Many things you mentioned, are close to my heart. The first thing I have when I reach England is a custard tart, which is followed by taking tea and anywhere I can!!
    Three years previously we visited Jane Austen’s museum in Bath and I came home with stationery, bookmarks, book plates “When I have a place of my own, I shall be miserable if I have not an excellent library..Jane Austen) and of course, a bag. I receive their newsletter each month.
    I feel we are kindred spirits in what we like, Jane Austen, Frank Sinatra, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, all things romantic of long ago, including movies you mentioned.
    Thank you for touching my heart in this wonderful book although it did make me feel homesick. I too cram everything I can into suitcases to bring home!!
    I have followed your work for a number of years and was thrilled to see this book and proud that it has *First Edition* printed on the first pages.
    P.S. May I borrow Joe on my next trip as my husband is not *into* all things historic and romantic!! 

    Meg

  56. dewena says:

    Dear Susan, Congrats on the book signing tour. Just had a quick question. Did I read that you were going to sale a tin container you designed for tea? Like the one you have that I saw in your blog? I tried to buy some earl grey with lavender the other day and my store was out. Iam anxious to try it. Do you remember the tea can I’m referring to? I know it would be a hit. You know we all love everything you do. Keep the video’s, books and kitty photo’s coming. Another one of your million fans, Dewena

  57. Ronda Barnes says:

    Susan I purchased your book A Fine Romance and I love it. On the inside flap of the back dust cover you show some books that you have already published. Now I am interested in purchasing one of the Christmas books that I see there, but I’m not sure which one yet as I can’t see the detail very well of the front covers. How do I go about seeing them up closer and see what the books contain. Then I can decide which one I would like to purchase the most. I would appreciate an email explaining how to do this.
    Thank you
    Ronda Barnes

    • sbranch says:

      Hi Rhonda, Here’s a LINK to my books and what each of them are about. We have a few of them for sale in our web store, but the problem is that most of them are out of print. Sometimes you can find used ones on the Internet, or in our Vintage section, and we’re reprinting three, Autumn, Girlfriends and Summer for next May publication. I think we might still have the small Christmas Joy in our web store. Hope this helps!

  58. Jane Armour says:

    I cannot begin to tell you how much I have enjoyed your new book, A Fine Romance. I only read it a few minutes at the time, in order to make it last as long as possible. Every page was my absolute favorite & was a true delight! Thank you for this book. As I have told several friends, I have never before read a book that left me smiling with every page!

    • sbranch says:

      That makes my day to hear Jane, you will never know. Thank you for taking the time to tell me. I was inspired by all of Girlfriends here, and by the most gorgeous English countryside!

  59. Maria in Long Beach, CA says:

    Hi, Susan…not sure if you’re familiar with a shop located in Santa Barbara on State Street called Hampstead Village. It’s a wonderful everything-British gift/book shop, and A Fine Romance should definitely be sold there. I was there a month or so ago, and I did not see your book. I thought that if you were near that area with the AFR van, you could stop in and check it out.
    1100 State Street, Santa Barbara, 93101; 805-845-3343.
    Thanks for taking us across the country with you! I’ll see you in SLO 😮

    • sbranch says:

      Wonderful suggestion … it sounds like the kind of store I would want to visit anyway! We will pop by. Thank you for telling me!

  60. dewena says:

    Dear Susan, The next time you talk to your mom or dad please thank them for me. Thank them for having you. I had the best day yesterday. I fixed me a cup of tea from your private collection that I scooped out of your cute new little tea tin. I poured it in my Emma Bridgewater “English Breakfast Mug of Tea ” cup. Beside it was a couple of lemon cookies that I made from your recipe using your “Heart of the Home” cookie cutters. I sat out in my garden reading your new book again, enjoying my tea and cookies smiling. If I were any happier I think I would have floated away! If you look in the dictionary under the word “JOY” there would be a picture of you!!! THANK YOU

    • sbranch says:

      It’s you Dewena, kindred spirit, you just understand the beauty of the little things in life. Taking the time to notice them makes every day special and life beautiful. Thank you so much, so sweet of you!

  61. Loretta says:

    Hi, Susan…..OMG….I loved your article on the Yankee Magazine….I ordered 2….one for me and one for a friend!! Can’t wait to get it!!!! I’m so excited!
    Hope you are having a great time in Ca. the weather is great!!! Chat soon… Loretta/Calif.

  62. Nancy in Wyoming says:

    I’m sure someone else noticed this, but I looked ahead to November on my SB wall calendar, and there is no November 4! there’s a 3 and a 5, but not a 4. LOL that’s great – it’s like finding a hidden prize! and it’s a Monday, so who couldn’t use fewer Mondays?

    can’t wait to get my 2014 calendars – especially for my purse. Happy October!

  63. Loretta Silva says:

    HI, Susan….OMG….that wool felt kitty is soooooooooooooo darn cute!!! What a great gift for you! The weather here in Ca. is beautiful……just for you! I love fall…..but thought for sure by now….there would be some rain in sight??? Not yet………….well, we can enjoy the beautiful sunny and crisp days ahead! Have fun in Ca……………….. Loretta/Santa Nella, Ca.

  64. Sandy Schleich says:

    Please ignore my earlier email about trouble getting your book thru Barnes and Noble. Truly they sent me an email this a.m. saying as how yet again they couldn’t fill my order which prompted my email to you (probably foolish) and low and behold it arrived moments ago by ups. I still don’t understand what’s going on with B&N, but never mind I got the book. Thank you for wonderful writing and illustrations. What a “cheer up” they are.
    Sandy

  65. Sandy Schleich says:

    I am amazed at what a sad emotional experience it is to come to the end of your book about England. Every time I opened the cover it was like opening a gift with a all sorts of little gifts inside. All the art work, photos, quotations, and writings were presents in and of themselves. It will be reread of course, but it will never be the same joyful surprise. I have always had a hope of going to England, as I am so drawn to it (don’t know why) and now I KNOW I will go (with my husband) because why else would fate deliver this beautiful book to me? Thank you for sharing your trip and your talents with me.
    Sandy Schleich
    P.S. It was interesting to read about William Wordsworth and when I closed the book to move on to my book of quotations for each day of the year, that day’s quote was ” Rest and be thankful” William Wordsworth. Hmmm.

  66. Aletha Riter says:

    WHERE IS WILLARD?

    • sbranch says:

      I’ve been on a long book tour, I’ll send a new Willard when I get home and can write and paint a little something for it.

  67. Ramona Horta-Riedeman says:

    Dearest Susan and Staff – I just want to thank you so much for being in California in November. It was a pleasure meeting you and your lovely staff of beautiful women in SLO at your book signing at the Madonna Inn. I will cherish those moments spent in line, talking with all the other women around me in line and sharing stories, and visiting with your staff. You have inspired me once again to take up my books that I have put down and start reading again. I have been getting “lost” in them, but that’s a good thing to do. I go to my favorite restaurant in Merced, CA (my girlfriend owns it – Toni’s Courtyard Cafe), order her delicious coffee with steamed soy milk, sit in “my” corner table and read my books, write in my journal (which i started again when my son went into the Army 3 years ago), or look through my Avon books for as long as a I want to. I picked up your “Autumn” book that I’ve had for years and finally finished reading it! Like so many others, I am your favorite fan! And I love everything you produce and can’t get enough! I am taking time out to read your blogs again and catching up on Willards. My husband was so sweet to bring me to the Madonna Inn to meet you and got us a room there. I couldn’t have met you without him! Wonderful husband of 7 years. We are the ones who came back and helped a “little” pack up your truck. I pray all is well with you, Joe and the rest of the Branch bunch! Sincerely and thankfully yours, Ramona Horta-Riedeman – Atwater, California 🙂 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 🙂

  68. Ramona Horta-Riedeman says:

    Dearest Susan and Staff – Thank you so much for coming to California for your book signing at the Madonna Inn Expo Center. Along with many others, I am your favorite fan and of course, I do love everything “Susan Branch”! I so enjoyed meeting you and your staff and especially visiting and sharing stories with all the beautiful women in line while we waited to meet you! You have inspired me to “read” again after meeting you! I recently went down to my favorite restaurant in Merced, CA (Toni’s Courtyard), books in hand…your Autumn book, AFR, and Grandma’s story, ordered their house coffee w/steamed soymilk, sat in “my” corner table all cozy and finally read through “Autumn” book, that I had never finished! I actually got “lost” in reading, and that was a good thing. I am still savoring AFR cause I don’t want to read it too fast, cause then it will be “over”! I am still thanking my wonderful husband of 7 years for taking me down there just to see you and for finding a room at the inn! Now I can cross off “meeting Susan Branch” off the top of my bucket list! Your staff of beautiful women and 2 men are wonderfully hard workers! I did enjoy meeting them as well and visiting for a bit. It was so much fun, I didn’t want to leave, so we are the ones who came back up the “hill” at the very end to lend a “helping hand”. My husband did get video of the impromptu sing along of “Going to the Chapel” with your close group of “girlfriends”. We will have to send that to you! Thank you again for being in SLO in November and again for re-inspiring me to take time for myself to enjoy the thrill of reading again! Sincerely – Ramona Horta-Riedeman

    • sbranch says:

      I LOVED that very last Going to the Chapel sing-a-long — almost dark out there, it was like being in a movie. I’m so glad you were there for my very favorite part!!! And ahhh, reading in restaurants, what a treat. It’s another world isn’t it? xoxo Thank you for coming Romona and for all your nice thoughts, and thank your husband for me too. What a sweetie.

      • Ramona Horta-Riedeman says:

        thank you Susan, for your lovely response! I will pass on the good wishes to my husband..my attempts at “posting” as you can see got duplicated, in a way (because I thought it did not “post” the first time!), due to my “technical difficulties”! ha ha For example: I am getting ready to activate a brand new Samsung Galaxy Slll my husband got me for my birthday last year in December. Yes, it’s been sitting in the box for a whole year. I’m “technology challenged”… ha ha 🙂 Enjoy your Christmas holidays at your cozy home! 🙂

        • sbranch says:

          I would like to have a Technology chip put under my skin that gives me instant knowledge on how it all works! Sometimes I say to Joe, I’m tired of constantly having to learn something new!

  69. Aletha Riter says:

    when is a new Willard coming out.. I checked my email and nothing

  70. Donna in Alabama says:

    There you go, sharing the travels and treasures with us. Even are taste buds are treated to the visual pleasures we can only imagine how tastey they could be. We had a treat already in the delightful visual gift of your talent in the craft of drawing and telling of simple life.
    Thanks again,
    Donna

  71. eleanor delaney says:

    I wish I had the magic in my words that you do. I just wanted to tell you that
    I too have a love for every thing Beatrix Potter and those adorable bunnies
    I get all my BP Peter Rabbit and the other adorable runny babbits out and I place
    them here there and everywhere, especially at Christmas. They enjoy being
    out of their special little houses and running about and playing. Our house is incredibly small so I can’t have them out all year round. They are so sweet and understand completely that they have to share the space with Brambly Hedge. Oh the joy and bliss I get from these little ones.
    And you have brought so many smiles and joy since I found you. Thank you for that. You now have a special little space in my heart that I can go to whenever I need a bit of magic.

  72. Priscilla Welsh says:

    I wanted to acknowledge receipt of your most welcomed thank you note this morning–believe me, it was all my pleasure! Thank you again for all the ways you enhance my life! Happy New Year to you and yours–and a special happy new year greeting from my black-and-white kitty, Patti, to your Jack–she so admires him for his creativity and photogenic-ness!

  73. Scouty says:

    Just purchased the 2014 Heart of the Home calendar. July is missing July 31. I will be returning it. Someone really goofed.

    • sbranch says:

      Twas me that goofed, big time, It was in the stores before anyone noticed, I’m so sorry. I’ve written about it before, but I’m doing it again in the next post — but just in case you check back, we did our best to “fix” it. Go HERE to see if the fix works for you — I just did it for my own calendar and I can barely tell the difference. Honestly. I promise to try harder next time.

  74. Barbara Chaney says:

    Here’s a book you and your fans might like to read:
    A biogaphy of Elizabeth VonArnim entitled:

    ELIZABETH by Karen Usborne (first published in 1986)

  75. Dear Susan,
    I emailed a few days ago but not sure you received it. I got your lovely new book for Christmas and it’s been such a treasure for me as it’s brought back so many wonderful memories of the 4 years I spent in Ambleside in the English Lake District. As a new and very young bride (married to a Brit) I lived in a very old cottage just a stone’s throw from the Bridge House, in fact you could see our street from there. My ex-husband still resides there and we still write every holiday (yes, we’re still friends!) It’s so true that when you live in a place like that and you think you’ll never leave you tend to take it all for granted. I visited Beatrix Potter’s lovely home too, back in the early 1970’s but I don’t recall waiting in any lines. I also visited Dove Cottage and many many other wonderful places, swam in Windermere and traveled many winding old country roads. I was all of 20 when I first went there.
    I saw so many places, including Scotland, but never the southern counties that you traveled through so your book is such a delight. We took the train from Southampton when we got off our ship (QE2). I made 5 trans-Atlantic crossings while living there, 3 by sea. Haven’t been back since 1978 but I know not much changes in the Lakes and that’s a good thing. Now I reside in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire (the past 34 years) and it so reminds me of England. I came to live here quite by accident, and can honestly say it is the best place to be if you can’t live in the English Lakes!
    Thank you again for a wonderful treasure of a book and the flood of memories it brought back. And your kitties are beautiful…we have 2 boys, but at one time we had more than 28 strays in our care, thus the name of my soap-making business. All the best to you for a wonderful New Year!

  76. Hi again Susan,
    Thanks for your reply! I feel we have alot in common, and are nearly the same age.
    Is there a calender of your Lake District trip? I have not had time to view all of your website yet so wasn’t sure if one is available. Will check it out more thoroughly when the temp out in my workshop (where computer is) gets over 32 degrees! Also, the row of cottages where I lived in Ambleside (and where my ex still resides) has a cottage at the end (facing the main road) which my ex owns and rents. It has an AGA cooker and of course is close to town, very near where you already stayed. (I LOVE those Agas!) so if you ever find yourself back there you may wish to inquire about the rental & I can give you the contact. You’ll be a hop skip and jump from the Golden Rule Pub too, a favorite haunt of the locals. Wish I’d taken more photos while I lived there, but the few I have are treasured. Who knows, I may make a trip over there one day but am quite content right now to stay put. Thanks again for your reply and any info about the calender I mentioned, if it exists! Hoping you are all shoveled out now….
    P.S. I am a kindred spirit of B.Potter as well, have silly names for my kitties too which are right now huddled by one of the woodstoves.

    • sbranch says:

      I’ll keep that in mind if we go back there Chris! No calendar like that, but I’ve actually been thinking of doing one called Backroads of Rural England or something like that. I have so many wonderful photos I didn’t even use yet!

      • Oh yes, please do show us more photos either in a calender or future book…how about a Vol. II?? I’m nearly finished the book and am longing for more…I cannot believe how much I FORGOT about living over there….your photos really have jogged my memory! I used to take lovely walks to Rydal Water from Ambleside, only about 1.5 miles from our cottage. It was there I found wild black currants and elderberries and learned to make wine and jelly from both. My elderly neighbors (I felt like I had lots of grandmothers!) taught me to make elderflower wine too. And the bakery just past Bridge House (not sure there still is one there) made the most amazing breads and hot cross buns. So glad you got to see York, I do remember the beautiful old half timber homes leaning into each other along the cobbled streets. Did you get to see the old apothecary shop? It’s the oldest in the country I believe. Being an herbalist, I could not miss seeing it and it was fabulous. Please do consider another volume on your trip….with Lots more photos and paintings!
        P.S. I still say “bloody hell” sometimes but try not too…I even have my hubby saying it at times! My favorite was “What for no?” I often say that when looking at my cats…..I believe it’s like saying “What’s up?” or “What are you up to?” anyway, I’ve been saying “what for no” to my pets for nearly 40 years now!

        • sbranch says:

          Yes that bakery is still there, very popular place…there’s a cupcake with a flag in it in the book, I took that photo there. It’s OK if you say Bloody hell in America, it only sounds cute to us! We didn’t see the apothecary shop. Add it to the ever growing list of reasons we HAVE to go back! Did you see the two Appendix’s I did for the book? Go to the top of the blog under I LOVE ENGLAND, they’re at the bottom of the drop-down — lots more to see there. Love your memories!

  77. EVannoy says:

    Susan, I am intrigued on your journaling process. Do you add the quotes later? Have them in your head & instantly write them on the page? Any journaling advice? I have my journals from years and years ago! Sometimes I wonder if I should keep them or not! LOL…some entries seems oh so silly! I do hope you write another memoir just like A Fine Romance! I absolutely LOVE this book. Maybe a memoir of you and Joe on the road with your book tour?

    • sbranch says:

      Lots of quotes in my head, lots in my notebooks, I’ve been saving them for years, even before I painted. Yes, as for advice, one thing I wish I had in my journals is more description of what I’m wearing, which shoes, what I had for breakfast, and the weather. Those little details ground a person in the entry.

  78. HI Susan
    Planning my 50th bday in England…..will be using your book as my guide : )
    We will have 4 days in countryside….I know it’s hard but, what area
    would you say is YOUR fav…I appreciate your opinion….Thank you!

    • sbranch says:

      This is very hard! I would say you should go to the country area that has the cluster of the things you want to see most. Do you want history, do you want gardens, homes of literary heros, castles? Also, get a book about the maps of public footpaths (look at the Appendix of A FINE ROMANCE under I love England at the top of the blog), so that wherever you go, you take a nice long serendipitous walk. Nothing is far, no matter where you are, four days is a lovely amount of time. But choose just one place so you don’t spend all your time moving your stuff into different hotels. Just pick one, and go out from there — tons to see in all directions. If this doesn’t help, write me again and I’ll try harder to be more specific.

  79. Cathy says:

    I was reading your latest blog and again saw the bookmarks you designed.
    I would like to make a serious request that you sell the bookmark (if you don’t already and I don’t know it) of the girl holding the lamb. I just love that one!

    Thank you for your wonderful artwork.

    P.S. I love lambs also!

  80. Jeanne Stellar says:

    Absolutely LOVE everything that you love and have similar things.
    WHEN are you taking a tour of people to England?
    A 97 year old friend in town went to the Beautrix Potter events (England, U.S. Teas, etc.) for MANY years. Her gift shop had many things of B.P….don’t know if it still does. She continues working and sewing aprons for the shop.

  81. Jeanne Stellar says:

    Absolutely LOVE everything that you love and have similar things.
    WHEN are you taking a tour of people to England?

  82. Pat says:

    Loved your story about your honey and his string on his glasses! Made us laugh because I wear the string and couldn’t get along w/o them and I am always trying to convince my husband that they are the way to go!

  83. anne says:

    I didn’t see this area before I emailed you. I want to thank you so much because you reminded me today which was a sad day of my love for Gladys Taber.

  84. Regina Carretta says:

    Dear Susan – I savored every inch of your book, “A Fine Romance”….thank you for bringing such life through your photo’s, drawings, observations, appreciation for history, your sense of color…..you are appreciated,
    Regina

  85. Ann Solomon says:

    I copied your recipe for “Irish” stew. It looks unusual and I think should be really delicious. I’ll let you know how it came out. Thank you for all the lovely pictures and messages on your blog.

  86. Lynn K says:

    Love your blog! Would really like to be in the drawing for the special Gladys Tabor book. ~ Thanks, Lynn

    p.s. Between my sister and I, we own all your books. Would you ever consider creating a computer font with your unique style?

  87. loretta says:

    Hi, Susan, Happy Birthday to you!!! Wishes to you for a wonderful day! Your friend, Loretta/Calif.

  88. Sharon Provence says:

    Dear Susan …Happy birthday to you …Happy birthday to youuuuu ….for you are so special ……and everyone Loves youuuuuuu!!!!! (I am singing!!) Love you for the wonderful person you are, who has brought so much joy into my life from all the wonderful things you design!! Have a most wonderful birthday! Sharon Provence

  89. Terry Holland says:

    Yes, I have ‘missed’ reading your emails & blog posts. Thanks for All your great books, recipes & ‘You’. You are very Special to a lot of us & we enjoy
    reading your words. Thank you for connecting with us all. 🙂

  90. DeAnna Passmore says:

    Susan! So nice to hear from you through “Willard”! Please enter me in your drawing! Have a springy spring!

  91. Kathleen Marshall says:

    Hi I wasn’t sure if this is where you leave a comment mentioned on Williard to enter for the giveaway. If not, oh well and I love to say how much I enjoy your art and musings! It is such a treat to get this email vs. just about every other one I get! I live on an island here in the Northwest, Whidbey Island, we also have to arrive and leave by ferry. Your Martha’s Vineyard wanderings always remind me of home. Truly a breath of spring!

  92. Vicki Rankin says:

    Thanks Susan! Always love to see Willard in my mailbox! And that it reminds me to check out your blog. Love the art, the photographs, the quotes, the recipes, the sentiments, etc., etc…. You really have a way of capturing what is special about each season/holiday, in your words and your drawings. And the sense of joy in it all is contagious, so thanks! And SO glad to hear another book is in the works!
    Vicki R.

  93. loretta says:

    Hi, Susan Put me in the drawing!!! Have a great weekend too!!! Loretta/calif.

  94. Kelly says:

    What a generous offering – please put me in the drawing too!

  95. sue says:

    Hi Sue… Please put me in the drawing. I really enjoy reading your blog/
    Thanks; Sue

    I don’t have a website

  96. Linda Dillon Pennington says:

    Hi, Sorry to bother anyone but, I cannot find the glass jar with the star on the lid on the shopping page. Is the jar discontinued. or am I having a senior moment. Thanks, Linda

    • sbranch says:

      That was actually a vintage jar, I think it was Folgers … we did carry (and maybe we still do, I haven’t checked) jars with red lids, but the star jar is in my cupboard!

  97. Judy Price says:

    Do you have a store in Arroyo Grande, CA
    We wil. Be there in early October

  98. Mary F. says:

    Oh, how I love your posts so! The pictures, the stories! I cherish my copy of “Mom, Tell Me Your Story”, that my mom and I worked on in the last year of her life. It is a treasure that I turn back to always, especially this year during these trying times, to hear my mom’s words and encouragement . . . Thanks for including me in your quilt drawing. (it would have a wonderful home with me, by the sea, or at the home of any of your wonderful followers!) ….

  99. Margie Orr says:

    I am taking down my SB calendar and one month showed pictures of your Orr side of the family. After he read it, he said his father Ernest Orr talked about a Florence Orr Smith in San Francisco. He asked me if your grandmother lived in San Francisco. His father wanted my husband to visit her during business meetings when he went to California, but he never did in the whirlwind of life.

    • sbranch says:

      She lived, for a short while, just below SF in Daly City. I know nothing about it, where or why or for how long… I guess it happened before they settled in Long Beach. Interesting! Can you tell me what year Ernest was born?

  100. Mel says:

    Hello there!

    This is Melea and I am a certified photographer.

    I was surprised, to put it nicely, when I came across my images at your web-site. If you use a copyrighted image without an owner’s license, you must be aware that you could be sued by the copyright holder.

    It’s illegal to use stolen images and it’s so mean!

    Here is this document with the links to my images you used at http://www.162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ and my earlier publications to get the evidence of my ownership.

    Download it right now and check this out for yourself:

    http://sites.google.com/view/100949548862342/home/drive/storage/files/download?d=182627056164082737

    If you don’t remove the images mentioned in the file above within the next several days, I’ll file a to your hosting provider letting them know that my copyrights have been severely infringed and I am trying to protect my intellectual property.

    And if it doesn’t help, trust me I am going to take it to court! And I will not bother myself to let you know of it in advance.

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