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THE REASON WE CALL OUR NEWSLETTER “WILLARD”
I would like you to meet my grandfather, Willard Smith. When I was around eleven, and in full letter-writing mode, I sent a letter to his house in Sioux City, Iowa. I had fallen in love with “the olden days” and so I wrote to ask him for pictures of when he was young. He sent me lots of photos including this one of him in his pilot goggles.
As far back as I can remember, my grandfather wrote long newsy letters at Christmas and sent them to everyone he knew; a year in his life more or less. My mom would bring the letter to the dinner table and read it to all of us. He was the first person our family ever saw do this. We thought he invented it.
One day, someone else sent us this same kind of letter, my mom brought it to the table to read; my brother Stephen, who was then about twelve, put two and two together, piped up and said, “Oh! It’s a Willard!” Of course this sent all of us into hysteria, we thought he was so brilliant and brave. Brave because we didn’t usually call Grandpa by his first name for one thing, it was normally frowned on. But my parents were laughing too, this was a good one. So when it was time to give my newsletter a name, my choice was obvious. “It’s a Willard!” I thought you’d like to see a picture of “Our Founder.” He also sent me this photo of his smoking dog Jack. (Don’t think for a moment I agree with this, I cringe a little when I see it now, but it was of its time.) Of course we kids loved it. Willard was our hero, he was the bee’s knees. Liked pork chop gravy on his chocolate cake. A legend in his own time.
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Please show me how to find your screensavers again. I have tried, tried, tried to no avail. I love them and surely miss them.
Thank you so much from your very, very long time admirer.
Charlene Kidd
PS – I met you a long time ago in Santa Barbara at Chaucer’s Book Store where you signed three calendars for me. Loved meeting you.
Just click on Shopping (at the top of this page), then look at menu on left side of page, scroll down to “From Me to You with Love,” click, and there you are! I remember Chaucers! Nice to “see” you again!
Your website is truly a delight!
Love the posts…..little footprints…
Will you ever come out with a desk pad calendar???? Would love to have one!!!!!
Yes we did…a blotter calendar, is that what you mean? Our new one should be in in about a month or so.
Hello!! I’m desperate… please help!!! I am a complete Susan Branch addict and LOVE the cookbooks/etc! I have a VERY old accordion style recipe file that is yours and is falling apart! I have looked everywhere and cant find another one. 🙁 It has recipes on the front and back (minted peas, stuffed tomatoes, baked apple to name a few)… is there one left in this world I can buy?? If so, I’m your girl! I neeeed it asap and will pay $$$$$$ for it! 🙂
Bless you for being so amazingly talented and sharing those talents with us! 🙂
Debi
Oh I wish I had one. I even checked the shelves here in my studio in case there was one hiding in plain sight…but no, so sorry — I would if I could! Thank you for asking anyway!
I found one of Susan’s accordion style recipe organizer on Ebay of all places. Just search under “Susan Branch” and you will find it. Good luck! I also looked on amazon.com; they have a lot of products, but not that one.
There were hardly any of them made, and it really was a cutie pie, I haven’t looked at it, hope it’s in good condition!
Hi Susan-
You are my new best friend even though we have never met. I was introduced to you through “Where Women Cook” Blog. Now every morning I start with your blog. I imagine I live somewhere beautiful like you! My, you are so blessed with many talents!
Also, I officially own my first “Susan Branch” Book!!!! More are coming too. Yippee! On the hunt for Gladys Taber ones as well.
Thank you for this Blog and for sharing your gifts.
Hi Susan, I have a question for you about past Willard’s. I remember that there was an archive page for the e-mail Willards on your website. I don’t see it anymore and I’m wondering what happened to it. I would love to print them out but can’t find them. I ordered the snail mail book of Willard’s and I’d love to have the email one’s too. Thanks so much, Darlene
Still getting blog integrated with old web site…should be here soon I think. I do run into them out in Google land every so often.
Thanks Susan! I will keep a look out for them. Maybe one day you can put all the email Willards together in a beautiful book like you did with the snail mail Willards. I’d be in Heaven with that!! This blog is like Heaven to me too!! Thanks for all you do!!
Susan you give me such comfort and joy. I love sitting in my little sun room at the computer “soaking” in all the sunshine you share! God bless you always.
I was looking for an old Willard that had some great info on taking the train. Will that be coming back? The description made taking the train sound like such a fun thing to do, I want to try it!
Susan…loving every line of your blog but cannot find the pansy place cards to print out anywhere!
Go about 5 or 6 postings down on the main blog page, there’s a big picture of them, you’ll see it!
By the way…when do the new calendars come out? I can hardly wait!
We’re thinking it’s the 11th of July … sending love about missing your daughter… big bottom lip stuck out.
Hi Susan,
I received your email today and yes, I believe I am a kindered spirit. I just love your blog and have to tell you when I saw your notation of ” the bees knees” I had to laugh and then a tear came to my eye. My mother used to say that to us when we were little. I have not heard that saying in many years. Mom went home to heaven 15 years ago but I must tell you she came through to me today in your writing. The ability you have in making those who follow your blog and enjoy your books feel as if they have been your long time friend is remarkable. It’s the heart of the inner being in each and everyone of us that wants to reach out and befriend you. To share our joys in a world where we leave so little time for these types of enjoyment that we have almost allowed them to become something of times gone by. I thank you for attempting to remind us to keep these wonderful simple moments alive in our lives. I believe you were placed into our lives to help us to learn to enjoy the journey we’re on, just oh so much more .
~ Doreen ~
I knew that blogging was going to bring together the nicest people in the world…because that’s who I always meet when I do booksignings, everyone is so great. I always hoped somehow they could all meet each other. Sometimes when I’m signing books and busy, I look up and wish that I was in line with everyone else, because they are laughing and talking and having so much fun. It makes me very happy to see such goodness — and to read your comment was so wonderful, to read all of them means so much to me. Thank you! xoxo Susan
Doreen, you’ve captured beautifully the feelings that I’m so sure we all feel toward Susan. Thank you so much for that, and thank you to Susan for sharing the beauty of your life. We all love you so!
Deb
Commenting on Debi Powell’s search for a recipe holder, she may want to try looking on E-bay, they generally have anything you’re looking for.
By the way, I love your work and e-mails. Keep up the great work for us that like our hobbies!
Hello There, Susan,
I have just had the great pleasure of joining you via the QuiltingTreasures.com “Designers” page and would like to express my delight in discovering your website and your exquisite artwork.
Actually, in reading your recipes – particularly Finnan Haddie (I have smoked Haddock in my ‘fridge as we “speak” awaiting this recipe) – it’s quite amazing that I discovered your site right at this time. As they say: “You just have to put it out there in the universe, and it will come back at least twofold” – thus I have just proven how true that can be, and that our thoughts and wishes can travel so effectively around the world for an answer. I’m mentioning this because I’m writing this note to you from “DownUnder” (Australia, that is), from the central western region of New South Wales.
As 5.30 a.m., Saturday – 02 July, is just about to strike, I just wanted to express my delight in becoming a member of your blog and possibly becoming more acquainted with you through your books and fabric designs. I’m looking forward already to reading your next blog update.
Many thanks indeed for this space in time to ‘speak’ with you (I normally don’t blog, so this is quite a change for me).
Cheers for now from ‘DownUnder’
CherylD
We are the world! So happy to have you here!
Hi Susan: I apologize if I already sent this note, but I am also new to blogging. I sent it last night and looked for it this am and didnt see it.
I wanted to order the” Mom – tell me a story” book for my 84 year old mother.
She will have a lot of fun filling out the pages. I cant wait. Also, my dad is 86 and was wondering if you had a book for dads. He would also love to put down on paper all of his memories. I wish we were neighbors. You are such a breath of fresh air. What I love about you is your appreciation for the simple things in life – nature, flowers, stary nights, fireflies, God and country. Thank you for being you.
Hi Susan,
Where can I find the story “Pancakes?” Just LOVE that one!
I’ve been illustrating and hand writing Pancakes so I can put it in my next book!
Hi Susan,
Will there be a 2 year (2012/2013) monthly pocket Time Flies calendar? Item 10-7088 TF Publishing.
It’s just the perfect size..so cute…..a great lifesaver for a busy mom and best of all allows me to plan ahead.
I was disappointed that I could not find one at the beginning of this year for 2011/2012. I have absolutely loved my 2010/2011 one!!!!!! It has gone literally everywhere with me and is falling apart now that it’s a year and half old. Nonetheless, it’s my best mommy find/friend.
Thanks kindly or your reply!
Yes, we’ll have it, it should be in any day now! So glad you like it!
Susan! Your artwork makes me so happy. Thank you for being a source of so much joy! I got your new “Mom, Tell Me Your Story” book for Mother’s Day. Having so much fun filling it out for my daughter who just got married!
Your Willards and videos are such a fun bright spot for me!
I am wondering … there used to be a flag for sale that included an adorable witch and the words from Little Orphan Annie “The goblins’ll getcha if you don’t watch out!” A couple of years ago, I bought one for each of my 4 sisters … our mom would quote that entire poem to us when we were little! So, it brought back such sweet memories! However, at the time, I didn’t purchase one for myself. To my dismay, I don’t see that flag anymore on your site! Can you tell me how I might be able to purchase it? Let me know! Thanks so very much!
So sorry Becky, but as things go in our web store, we ran out of them….the manufacturers we work with don’t seem to make things forever anymore, sooner or later we sell the last one of everything!
I am a long time Susan Branch fan. Under Shopping, it does not show a 2012 Day book – spiral engagement calendar. Please say that there will be one – I buy one every year.
Also, the snail mail Willards book is genius, but like other folks, I would love, love, love to have a book of the email Willards as well. I love all of them and my email programs have, of course, deleted many of the older ones.
Thanks!!
I have fallen in love with your blog and check it almost daily! You live my dream life . . . sigh . . . anyway, I digress. I am hostessing a get together with 3 girlfriends (July 28) to celebrate the fact that one of them is about to be a grandmother for the first time. Any ideas for a wonderful, delightful, meaningful gift I could give her or something we could do at said get together to make it very special? She is a very sweet, special lady and I want this to be a very sweet, special day. As she is the one who first introduced me to you (I am eternally grateful) I thought you would be the one to ask.
I’ll have to think about it…I have someone from Cape Cod Life coming shortly for an interview today, so I’m thinking our Blogettes might have all the answers you need. It’s a very creative bunch we have checking in here! This party sounds wonderful . . .
‘morning Susan: Re: your Peter Rabbit Room which I think charming!….if you don’t know about them,.you might be interested in the Cottage series (#8 and last soon to be out) of books on the life of Beatrix Potter as she and her animal friends solve a little mystery in each book. Written by Susan Wittig Albert, each of the 7 titles begins as “THE TALE OF………”. Insofar as I’ve read, the life and sites of these books are authentic during the years Beatrix lived in the Lake Country of England. I’m going to be sad as I read #8 and as the PR tells me, ends as Beatrix marries. How I wish there would be more tales!
Thank you so much for telling us about these books- I haven’t heard of them. I love Beatrix Potter…I have a set of her books for my children and I’ve been to Hill Top. I’m heading straight over to my online library request system to look for the first book. All the “girlfriends” on here are the best! 🙂
Where please is the downloadable stationery and screensavers!!!
Go to the top of the page, click on “Shopping” — look in the column on the left, scroll to bottom “From me to you with Love” — and there you go!
Will there be a 2012 Day Book this coming year?
No but you can write info@lifeguardpress.com and tell them if you are disappointed and maybe they will let me do one for next year! I tried, but for some reason they decided against it! I just think you might have more clout than I do!
Done.
Will you ever be making a Halloween edition for Heart of the Home? I love this holiday and would love to see your ideas for Halloween. ~thx
Yes, I too am wondering if there will ever be a Halloween edition for Heart of the Home? I also love this Holiday and would love, love, love to see what wonderous and fun ideas you would have for Halloween!! 🙂
Thank you soooo much for everything that you do!!
Awaiting anxiously for your reply.
xxoo~Tatia
I did put a few pages of Halloween in my Autumn Book… did you see those? Some stories and ideas are there. Right now no plans for a whole book of Halloween; but there are others in the works!
Hi…You had me in tears with the story of Nancy Luce. I tried to pull up the print on your shopping page but couldn’t find it. Can you help? I always love to read your thoughts….I”ll bet you are a wonderful neighbor!!
Love, Love, LOVE your story about Nancy Luce! Very fascinating!! Enjoyed the pics of your walk too! Thanks for all you do, always a joy & inspiration to visit your page!!
Hi Susan- You’re my breath of fresh air in a chaotic life with teenagers!
I am a HUGE fan of yours and have been for years – I also illustrate and watercolor paint- and like you, a skill I discovered late in life. Right brain things are now my personal oxygen… I love to quilt too!
I wanted you to know that another favorite thing of mine is getting a good night’s sleep. Last year I was having age-related sleep issues (it was actually horrendous) and I personally discovered a line of sleepwear that I LOVED – called Goodnighties. I was thinking you might want to sell these in your store. They are thE coziest p.j.’s and gowns I have ever worn and because it is an ionized fabric (negative ions to relax) with immediate moisture wicking you will sleep straight through the night (well, at least I did! 🙂 – and I now won’t wear anything else for sleep! Also, this brand is 100% Made in the USA –which is nice for a change! The ‘soft pink’ is a BEAUTIFUL color – lavender too! it’s also anti-microbial!… a ‘dream’ for travelers! 🙂 and for busy mom’s like me – who would rather paint than do laundry! uck…
You should check it out! thanks for your great newsletter…. the chicken story is really interesting!
my blood pressure just went down a few points! LOL 🙂 xo Sarah
The Nancy Luce story is quite compelling. This now seems like the perfect opportunity to help a charitable cause by donating the profits from the sale of these prints to an animal-related benefit. Otherwise, if individuals profit from this legend, it seems that poor Nancy will continue to be exploited, even after death. Please consider selling the prints as a way to “give back.” Thank you.
Will there be a 2012 Day Book? I purchased the 2011 Day Book last year and love it. Hope to see a 2012 one soon
No, so sorry, the manufacturer decided not to do it . . . you can write http://www.lifeguardpress.com and tell them how you feel about it!
Hi, Susan! Your blog inspires me. I just LOVE it! I have a question. Do you have any plans on designing more stickers? I think I have all that you have designed. They are my very fav stickers to use in my scrap books. They speak to me and I feel so at-home with them. I’ve used about all of them now and just wondered if any more are on the drawing board. Thank you from my heart for all the wonderful things you do.
I have SEARCHED your entire website and can not find the vintage jars for flour,sugar,etc. you blogged about on August 22.!! Where are they hiding,Please and Thank you!
If we hadn’t run out of them already they would be in the web store, you would click on shopping, then on Kitchen…but Judy ordered more today so we’ll have them soon!
i’ve tried to write several times but it seemed there was a problem getting through. i was very upset about the august story about nancy luce, it is an interesting story, but don’t feel it was appropriate for a calendar unless it’s october. even then to see a graveyard on your birthday month is creepy. august is my birthday month and i didn’t like it at all. i don’t think i will buy another calendar unless i can see all the pictures. thank you for your time, diane
I’m so sorry Diane, I saw that story as one of hope, perseverance, and love. I felt so proud of Nancy Luce when I read about her. It never occurred to me it would be offensive, but I can understand how you would feel! Just want you to know I hear you…sorry it was so difficult getting through to me — sending you a much more cheerful Happy Birthday!
Hi Susan, I have been looking everywhere for a cute coupon keeper. I’ve had a few over the years & can’t find any now. Any chance you’ll offer one in the future? Thanks, Pat
Maybe…if I do it will be here!
I love your blog…and I loved the new “old” jar with the red lid in the “I Like Jars” section. I looked in Shopping, and I didn’t see any jars…am I too late to the party? Too early? Let me know……I love your work–have all your books–miss your store in Arroyo Grande, even though I don’t live there. I go there often–and thanks for bringing sunshine and fresh air on a regular basis.
If you click “Shopping,” look at menu on left, click on Kitchen, and they’re in the top row … right now they have a banner across them that says “coming soon” — it shouldn’t be long now.
My daughter is getting married next year and your beautiful recipe binder is going to be one of her gifts. As a matter of fact I just placed an order for more refill pages. I am having family and friends each take a page and write a favorite recipe and their photo so she will always know how much we love her. We all live on the east coast and she recently moved to Texas. So she will be able to see “all” our happy faces whenever she wants!
This binder makes my job so much easier…Thank you!
What a beautiful gift! Just what I hoped would happen with it…thank you for telling me!
I didn’t know where else to ask this, but I was wondering if you would be posting an Autumn screensaver? I have a new computer and just cannot wait to put a beautiful SB Autumn screen saver on it. It’s like the icing on a cake!
Thanks much.
Look for them on Tuesday!
Thank You!! I was going to ask the same thing. I love putting up new screen savers when the seasons change..
I don’t see them. I click on shopping, then free stuff. Maybe you haven’t had the time yet to put them up.
They should be up today . . . after 9 California time, I reminded Kellee this morning.
Thanks so much! I just thought maybe they were in a new place.
i wonder if someone could help me get the willard newsletter? i have asked before and someone was going to look in to it but i still haven’t gotten it. is there anything else i can try? susan’s site is not blocked on my email site.
thanks,
patti
no mail yet. hoping to getWillard this time. i gave you both of my email addresses. i’ve checked the Spam but it’s not there either. could someone please let me know how to get “connected”? computersr can be so frustrating. thanks for any help you can give me! patti
Let me know if you don’t get it by the end of today Patti, and maybe we can figure something out!
Just read the Willard, feet up on my cushy ottoman, cup of tea in my Emma mug….LOVE IT! Thank you so much for all the fun freebies! I went ahead quick and ordered up one of the rugs before they’re all gone. Can’t wait to get it. xoxo…kp
Hi, a while back you published the pattern for a darling apron. I thought I had saved it to my computer but alas, I cannot find it. Is there anyway to get that pattern once again? Thank you so much.
Nancy
It’s still on the sewing page in the webstore, still free, just go there and you’ll find it!
A comment a little late about the last Willard… I loved the bookmark, and I have been reading an old,old book given to me by an old, old friend, and Mr. Owl looks so nifty peeking out, just like your picture! Thanks!
How great!
Welcome to sunny? and rainy CA. I live in Pacific Palisades and it is pouring here too. Love your blogs as you traveled across country. My daughter and family live outside of Boston (Chelmsford) and go to the Vineyard quite often. Today’s blog with the Chilli recipe has me off to put on my rain gear and go get the ingredients. We love the Central Coast and visit often as we love the wineries.
In fact will be there in a few weeks to visit “Villa Creek” winery and restaurant in Paso. Great wines and food. I found your wonderful stickers and cookbooks when you first started them. You have truly found a special spot and looks like you are turning it into a park! Cheers, Ritchie aka Retro Grandma
We seem to cross paths back and forth across the country too!
Good morning Susan! Will there be a 2 year (2012/2013) monthly pocket Time Flies calendar? I LOVE my 2010-2011 one, but the year is almost up and I’m already booking things into the new year! You responded to another request in July that it would be out any day, but I just wanted to make sure its still coming! (I really prefer the 2 year over the 18 month calendar). Thanks so much!!!
It’s in our web store . . . I like the 2 year better too and keep asking the manufacturer to do that again….but since I just license the art to them, they get to decide how it’s made. I’ll keep trying though!
Due to an unexpected illness I was unable to keep up with my email. What a joy to find your Willard! Now that I’ve found you again, I will keep up with my email and stay up to date on your happenings! I had the pleasure of meeting you at a book signing on Cape Cod and a picture was taken of the two of us while you were signing my books. I treasure that picture and have it in my guestroom mirror where I see it often. You bring such joy and happiness to me.
How nice of you to tell me! I hope you’re better!
Thank you so much for bringing out the sweetness and memories of childhood and the island I hold so dear. Bless you,Susan. Mimi
Thank you Mimi.
I am just so amazed at the talent you have. I just love reading your blog. A thousand thanks for the bright days you bring.
Very sweet Gail!
I LOVE THE WILLARD STORIES AND WISH I COULD COME SEE YOUR PART OF THE WORLD. LOVE THE PIC AS WELL. YOU JUST MAKE ME WANT TO MAKE A CUP OF COFFEE AND ONE OF YOUR WONDERFUL DESSERTS AND INVITE PEOPLE OVER! THANK YOU FOR THAT WARM AND WONDERFUL FEELING YOU GIVE!!!!
You are so welcome April, thank YOU for your sweet comment!
Loved the pictures taken from the train. Love to ride trains, one can see so much of the country this way. Always enjoy receiving WILLARD, and appreciate all the work you put into this lovely newsletter. They always make me warm and fuzzy, as someone said. The cake plate you posted, is similar to the one my parents had for me and my brother. I am 69 and it must be this young also. HA Blessings to you.
In Denver, waiting for the 8″ of snow to melt. Not really, love the snow and it was so beautiful floating down very late Tuesday night.
Ahhh, snow, I want it, but then, I can wait for Christmas Eve if necessary!
My daughter introduced me to your newsletters. They are adorable. You are so talented. Please add me to your list. God Bless!
So happy to see you here Rose!
I do not have a web site. But I love yours. I don’t know if you recieve these or not and my Willard never comes thru. How do I find him? Janet
I received the old snail mail Williards in the mail today but would really love to have the ole email ones also (like a lot of other fans I know). Is there any chance of getting them on your website again?
I think the problem is that they are formatted to email, and would have to be reformatted for the blog . . . which would take a while since it’s been a few years. I will look into it, and thank you for the compliment of asking!
Thanks….that is all that we can ask
Is this where I make my comment to try to win your cookbook? I would love to win it and hope I’m in the right spot. BTW: Love love you talk about the new kitty.
Good evening Susan,
I love your 2011 Christmas ornament and didn’t realize you had three others from years past. Do you know where I can find them for purchase? I’d like to start a collection that one day I can pass on to my two year old daughter, Cait.
I look forward to my Willard each month. I’ve been a fan of yours for years. Thank you for making my days much brighter!
Blessings,
leigh
Yes Leigh, we’ve made them for the last four years, but when they’re gone, there just aren’t anymore . . . unless maybe you can find one on ebay ?? So sorry!
I love the photo of your Grandpa Willard. When I saw his mustache, I immediately thought of new Kitty Jack–I think Jack has stolen your grandpa’s mustache.
LOL!
Good Morning! What a wonderful way to start my day! The sunshine is always out when I read your postings and see such lovely art work and fun sayings and doodles all over, I have been a fan for many years! Please keep the sunshine glowing! Blessings. Marianne
Hapy thanksgiving!
Thank you so much Marianne, nice to see you here!!
I would love to see a comeback of your Joy Cards. They are adorable and would love to be able to use them.
Love your art work!
Bert
Thank you Bert . . . I loved those little things too.
Hellooo Susan,
I love your art and have so many of your items. I was hoping to buy a 2012 calendar planner- I love the one you did for 2011 and carried it with me everywhere! Of course I have your desk blotter calendar, the big calendar, the little calendar and the fridge magnet calendar, but I love a planner best of all. Are you doing one for 2012? Should I “stay tuned” for it? (Pretty please?)
Love you so much!
Randi
I would love to do another one, but the manufacturer for whom I designed the planners decided not to make them this year. You can write them at info@lifeguardpress.com and tell them you want one for next year! I think they would listen more to you than to me! Thank you Randi!
I had the pleasure of visiting with friends in their Martha’s Vineyard in September, 1988 and loved it! I found your “Heart of the Home” book in a Houston bookstore shortly thereafter. I love the recipes, but your artwork and notes make it extra special. TODAY, I found that you and I are both very, very fond of Gladys Taber. I became a fan of hers through her Butternut Wisdom columns and have five of her books on my shelves. I look forward to sharing our common joys as I read your monthly e-newsletter!
Taking joy!
Shirley Nix
How great Shirley! Nice to meet you!
We love “Christmas Memories”, but can’t seem to buy it. Is it out of print? Will it ever be printed again? Is there somewhere I can buy it? Looking back through it is a great part of our Christmas every year. Thanks!
At this time, we aren’t reprinting it, but we’ll see how demand goes. . . printers require that you buy a certain number of any book you have printed. That means you have a whole lot of books that need to be stored somewhere where winter and humidity can’t get to them! So we need to see how it goes. Thank you for asking! Sorry I don’t have better news.
Susan, do you know of anywhere I can purchase your Christmas Memories Book? I have faithfully filled mine out for the past five years but now I can’t fine a replacement! Help! Do you have any in stock? Thanks so much! Jodi Thomas
I’m sorry Jodi, but they are out of print.
Just put up my beautiful new 2012 calendar, and it can’t be I’m the first one to notice the January typo (maybe it’s called an art-o when it’s not typed) on “Reasons” without the S… Saw it on the image in your shop as well. Of course, that doesn’t take away from my appreciation… I’ve had your calendars for many years. Wish you would bring back the family version, too.
I painted it that way!!! And never noticed it, and no one noticed it!!! It escaped me!! I hope you will consider it part of the “charm” — 🙂 Another reason to go on living, always trying to do better next time!!
Just looking for the free page that has a year calendar with spaces to write in birthdays, etc. under the month–lines. Hope that describes it ok. I wanted to print out a few to give to my kids and spouses. Thanx.
Karen
Here you GO Karen — the free stuff page!
I’m soooo sad!! No more wall calendars available. Sold Out! Rats! Next year I’ll order my calendar in October to be sure I’m ready for the new year. I don’t know if I can make it from month to month without your special monthly greeting. If more are printed, please let me know. Love your artwork and seasonaly sayings. <3 Deanna B.
We’ve never sold out before! Rather exciting, but sad too! I think you might still find one on Amazon! Try there.
Susan you are so adorable and charming! You speak right to my heart from your blog down to your beautiful floral furniture. My children love reading & looking at your blog. They know Jack & girl kitty immediately upon glancing at a picture of ’em 🙂 Thank you for blessing our hearts 🙂
I love that your children are here! I will show a little video of the kitties toward the end of this week, so tell them please! Have a wonderful day!
Thank you – you make me smile -I have pictures from one of your old calenders
posted in my office cube – I change them out every month – and re-read your different quotes and reminders………
I just love all your blogs….I wait patiently at the end of my work day to get your e-mail….it makes my whole day!!! 🙂
Just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy……
I loved seeing the beautiful photos of moonlit Edgartown. My husband and I were on the vineyard back in Sept 1988 and stayed at the Crocker House Inn on Crocker Ave. Your blog brought back beautiful memories. We must go again. Our 5 month old granddaughter is named Aquinnah. I don’t have to tell you why.
No you don’t! Beautiful!
Loved the moon pics…..it has been shining in my bedroom window every night during this phase
You could definitely see your enthusiasm in the paintings you write. The sector hopes for even more passionate writers like you who are not afraid to say how they believe. At all times follow your heart.
I Love everything about this site. Thank you for sharing colections and recipes. I truly enjoy all the “Quilty” sharings. Merry Everything Happt Always, Dolores
You made my year!
Your upbeat spirit, kind words and daily hopefulness filled many months.
You take we readers to places we could never get to with your shared
pictures, giving us a photo scrapbook to enjoy each week.
Thank you!
dear Susan,
Another reason to add to your list of Reasons to Live For…your friends and loved ones love you even if you make mistakes! A wonderful realization I’ve made in my own life…and applies in this case too! I’ve been a fan for YEARS, and will continue to be for years to come!
Dear Susan,
My daughter and I have instituted a monthly game night where my husband and I go to her home one month, and the next month her family comes to my home. We do theme nights. For February, it will be a Valentine’s Day/Romance theme. She and her husband have two teenagers (girl-15 and boy-13) plus another boy of 7. We try to find activities that will interest all. This month was Harry Potter theme which was great fun for all — HP movies, Scene It game, pizza, and popcorn.
We would LOVE it if you would start selling some of your artwork as jigsaw puzzles — we all love to crowd around the table and put together a 500 piece puzzle — while music or movie is playing in the background.
Thanks for all your wonderful work!
I would love that too, fun! Thank you Priscilla!
Susan,
You and Joe would certainly be welcome to join us! 🙂
February’s theme is “Romantic Adventures Tea Party” —
and because the whole family is on a “we love France especially Paris” kick right now, I came up with the following plan:
Jigsaw Puzzle: Quaint Shops (in Paris with a French Cafe!) — until we start seeing Susan Branch puzzles for sale 🙂
Music: Soundtracks from “French Kiss” and “Chocolat” (my daughter and I love these movies!), and French Cafe (inspired by you from your blog!)
Movies: if we can drag ourselves away from the puzzle — French Kiss and Chocolat
Food: Tea (for adults) and Sparkling Apple Cider (for kids), Tea Sandwiches (from your recipes), Cheese Pizza (for kids), Lavender Tea Cookies (your recipe again), Chocolate Dipped Strawberries (handmade by me … I do these alot for my spoiled husband), and Popcorn (made in the Whirly-Pop with Coconut Oil and French Sea Salt)
With your blog and our love of all things Parisien, this fell together quickly and easily. Merci Beaucoup for you!
Will “Girlfriends Forever” be restocked? I hope so. I gave my copy to my very dear friend. I enjoy your books and ideas. Happy 2012!
Thank you for everything that you do and create…My life has been enhanced by your wonderful idea’s creativity, your memories, hominess, recipes, art and love of life….Thank you. I am 63 years old and the movies you love are also mine, your memories and similar, and love of nature, and the simple, good things in life that you enjoy, fill my heart and mind with joy and pleasant thoughts. In this world of craziness, you are a little piece of comfort…Thank you.
I love your blogs. You are so talented. Do you ever come to Northern California? I would love to have you come to our quilt guild or our quilt show.
Happy New Year!
The journey into ‘Branchland’ continues; I just got on the ‘Willard’ list. Looking forward to getting it and learning what it’s all about. I feel like I’m on the yellow brick road to many surprises and good things ahead. I’ve not read your books, so that is next. Have fun in New York. It’s changed a lot since I’ve been there so it will be nice to get an update on it through ‘new’ eyes.
C
I am new to blogs, facebook etc. Just retired from 37 years of teaching and I am anxious to explore new things. So glad I found your blog, recipies etc. I can’t wait to explore your site. Your drawings and words of wisdom make me smile.
Very intreresting blog. It was very relavant. I was looking exaxtly for this. Thank you for your effort. I hope you will write more such useful posts.
My mother bought me the Home Cooking Traditions recipe binder and from there I have discovered your website and fallen in love! I feel like I have finally found my soul mates :p. You have inspired me! 🙂 Thought I would let you know. Have a wonderful day!
Thank you Sarah, so nice to hear from you. Way way way back, I had two Sarah Fosters in my family. New Hampshire and Iowa.
Cannot find the Heart of the Home 2012 calendar ANYWHERE. Are you going to do a second printing? Evidently, you need to print more as I’ve tried everywhere but won’t pay $65 on e-bay. Thanks. Please let me know. Sheryl
We’re so surprised because we ran out for the first time ever — and so did Amazon and every where else apparently. I’m so sorry, I wish I could help — we don’t print them ourselves, I just design the calendar for a manufacturer — but I’m sure they will print more next year!
Valuable info. Lucky me I discovered your website by accident, and I am surprised why this twist of fate did not took place in advance! I bookmarked it.
I saw your Onion Pudding recipe on your website just a couple of days ago and now I cannot find it. Want to serve it to my Book Club, along with “Swamp Chicken” this weekend.
Thank you so much,
Ellen
Its one post down. swamp chicken sounds interesting!
Hello Susan, I’m a first time blogger and I can’t resist saying that I’m a Big Fan. Your Summer book is my favorite. I also love books & old movies, I’ve dabbled in watercolors & calligraphy, tea is my favorite beverage & I love all things British, but my most favorite place on earth is the Vineyard. After reading this blog I see that there are a lot of kindred spirits out there.
Re: the 2012 wall calendar. I saw one on a clearance rack just yesterday (I already have mine on the wall) & when I read the blog for the first time last night I decided that I just had to return to the store & buy it. Luckily it was still there. Deanna B. & Sheryl C. were both looking for one, but to be fair I’m offering it to Deanna first because she mentioned it first. Let me know.
Hopefully she will read this! You are so kind!!
Hi Susan. Just wanted to say thanks for all your beautiful work. I look at your books over and over. I lost some of my sight and slowly it is coming back, and I am so thankful. I have an angel surgeon. Anyway, I thought of something and maybe it will go over like a lead balloon, but here it is. I was thinking maybe of a shower curtain with your watering cans with flowers and a pink or green liner with pink or green hooks to hang it; or maybe a shower curtain with hats and roses. (I was thinking that we kind of need a new shower curtain and that brought me to the idea.) Anyway, just something to mull over… Thanks again for all your great work. It always gives me such inspiration. Also, just wanted to tell you about your neighbor’s kittie. We stayed with them when we had hurricane Irene and lost our heat, and they have a kittie named Max. Max gets a bedtime snack every night at 10:00 pm, so around 9:45, he starts walking around the house to remind everyone not to forget his snack. He is a funny cat. We got a chuckle out of him.
Good night for now, and HAPPY 25th ANNIVERSARY to You and Joe, and Many, Many more.
Susan
Thanks Susan . . . so happy to hear about your eyes! My Girl Kitty comes in at my normal bedtime and starts stomping too — she wants to go to bed and she wants me to go with her! Have a wonderful day!
Thank you. Houstonians need to see the snow you share with everyone. Plus we have a wild man tuxedo kitty, too.
Oh my gosh, I have missed you so!
Going through OLD stickers and such that I NEVER did anything with but collected just to have and there you were…….in all your glory……….seasonal, etc. So here I am after finding you. You make my heart sing and it makes me sad after so many years……
I cannot seem to load your screensaver…..the hearts to be exact. Can anyone tell me how to set it up in a PC…….had to change over to a PC from a Mac years ago and it was truly one of my biggest blunders.
Hugs,
Lauren
I think it tells you right on the page for the screensaver…you just push one of those three buttons depending on the size of your screen. Try it and see if it works!
After receiving a new iPad I found that my Susan Branch app could not be transferred from my old iPad!!!! Could you please tell me how to get it one again. I miss “tapping in” 🙁
Hmmm, not so sure; you can sign up for an email notification for when I update in the right hand column of this blog — the only thing is, when they send the email they don’t include the videos! Also, they don’t have the “comments” there — but it’s a good reminder to come to the blog. Hope this helps!
I’m having my 3rd girl next month & have 2 Baby Love baby books for my other daughters & when I went to the bookstore to find another one I was told it is out of print. Are there any lingering copies in your store & if so, what is the price?
I’m afraid they have gone out of print . . . I just found out yesterday . . . I guess we’ve been out of them for a while. So sorry! I think you need to go to Amazon and see what they have . . . sometimes they come up with something.
I just now discovered this link on your blog, Susan, and would love to be part of the Willard updates. Is there somewhere special to sign up? Thanks! Barbzie
Oops. I just realized how obvious it is to sign up, Susan. Sorry! Barbzie
I would like to know on your hand hooked rugs what is the backing? Is it canvas/rubber,fabric
On the rugs I designed? It’s fabric.
I ADORE YOUR BLOG!! IT IS SUCH A BEAUTIFUL WAY TO START THE DAY.
TODAY AS I WAS ABSORBING THE BEAUTY OF YOUR PARTY TABLE AND THE INCREDIBLE DISHES I COULDN’T HELP BUT THINK THAT I SIMPLY MUST HAVE A PIECE OF THAT BEAUTIFUL CHINA. AT THE END YOU MENTIONED THE POSSIBILITY OF BEING A WINNER OF JUST SUCH AN ITEM!! HOW FUN. MAY THE PERSON WHO LOVES IT THE MOST WIN.!
THANKS FOR ALL THE JOY–KAY
That is my prayer!!
Susan, you inspire me! We have a big anniversary (our 35th) coming this summer, and I hope our celebration is as wonderful as yours.
I’m sure it will be wonderful!
I would like to sign up for Willard but I cannot figure out how ? Could you explain it again ? Many thanks !
You’re in the right place. Just fill in the squares at the top with your name, etc, and click “subscribe” and you’ll be on the list! Let me know if this isn’t making sense!
My father was born in Sioux City also. His family home was at the end of South Helen street and the backyard abuted Floyd Fitz Golf course and both my father and Grandpa White were wonderful golfers.
Love your newsletters and blogs.
Happy Spring!
Helen
PS: Are you familiar with the Lanz by Salisburg (?Spelling) clothing? Iloved it, and I was fortunate to have many dreses, nite gowns, etc. I miss their line.
Oh they had cute things, forgot all about them! Lanz!
Susan, I have been a fan of yours for . . . “forever”!! I have your cookbooks,desk blotter/calendar, wall calendar, several books, and, “other stuff”!! I am not a “blog”~person, as a rule, but, I love your “blogs”!!! You are such a delightful lady!! Thank you so much for everything you do for all of your many “fans”!! :o)
Thank you Lynnda!
I love reading willard and enjoying all the new old things you have in the store i bought dasiy for our granddaughter for christmas and looking for lamie pie for easter but i have been unable to find her anywhere in your store please help thank you marta
Write Judy@162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ and ask if she can help you.
I just purchased a daisy recipe book and I would like to order more recipe cards and coordinating scrapbook paper. I have not been able to find them. And also where do I find the page protectors. Thank you Jeannie
Just click on “Shopping” at the top, look at the list on the left for “scrapbooks” — click there, and you’ll find the pages you need.
I just placed my first order from you, and received the big box yesterday! (I got a little carried away when I was ordering) It was like Christmas morning!! I made myself wait till I had all my jobs done around the house, then opened the box, & reverently unwrapped each treasure. I ordered the tiny Peter Rabbit book, and would not even have noticed it among the packing paper if it had not been so nicely wrapped in tissue paper. I collect small books — and this one is the tiniest and BEST one in my collection. And I love my first Emma Bridgewater mug (w/cosmos) so much. Thank you for everything!
You got magical things! So glad you liked it! Thanks for letting me know Janice, I’ll be sure to tell Judy and Kellee what a good job they do! 🙂
I signed up for Willard many years ago, but never received it. I just re-submitted my info…. hope I am not messing up your list!
Just the opposite! Let me know if it doesn’t work!
I love your photos from your journeys.So much of what you say & what you photograph remind me so much of what I think and wish I could do, thanks so much I enjoy it greatly!!!!