Because I just did a long post about the moon for New Year’s Eve, today’s post was supposed to be all about tea time and dishes and cups and teapots, to 
go with my Willard newsletter that starts going out today. ♥ But, Sunday night, we walked into town to have dinner and even though it wasn’t the “official” full moon yet, the island was SO beautiful, the harbor was SO alive — I couldn’t help but show you! We went home and checked the exact time the first full moon of 2012 would rise. And last night, we were ready. We were moonchasers! Reminded once again, it’s true, the best things in life are free!
Sunday night is what got us started; here we are, just three blocks from home, on the town dock at Owen Park. The thing about living on Martha’s Vineyard, is that you don’t just get the moon, you get island ambience! Shore lapping, rippling water, flags flying, people going in and out of the golden light at the Steamship Building, the salty smell of the sea. A feast of beauty for the senses.
This bit of horn-blowing ambience is docked in front of the building in the first photo — when we got there, the ferry was loading up, getting ready for the forty-five minute trip across the sound to the mainland. The water rippled perfectly to catch the dazzling reflection from the boat windows . . . I can’t even believe we were standing right there, catching such a beautiful sight!
Water like glass for the sailboat masts too . . . this is supposed to be winter, but so far, it’s been hovering near the 50’s on most days; clear and cold at night.
And behind us, the lights were beginning to come on in the little houses that hug the shore. But you are saying to yourself, where’s the moon? Didn’t she say something about the moon?
Oh yes she did! There it is! And there goes the ferry. When we left the house, we really weren’t expecting this, we were just going to dinner. . . but when we saw what was happening . . .
We needed to chase the moon, the ferry, the stars! We got the car and drove out West Chop to the Meadow for a clear view of the sound in time to see the ferry steaming toward Woods Hole. I think that’s one of the dippers up there in the sky on the right!
A little further down, we came to the West Chop Lighthouse and there was the moon, giving us a beautiful shot. All of these photos were taken without flash — for some reason, there is a very strong light shining on the front of this house. This photo reminded us of an Edward Hopper painting. But we wouldn’t want to live here . . . who could sleep? See the stars?
Thought you might like to see a daytime photo of the lighthouse (built in 1817) . . . just as wonderful!
Finally back home, and there’s the moon, peeking through the linden trees over the roof of our house. And this wasn’t even the full moon! I think you can see why, first thing Monday morning, we Googled “time of moon rise on Martha’s Vineyard,” and planned our day around 5:10 pm last night. When the time finally came, we got our hats, gloves, scarves, big jackets and drove to East Chop. We got there early and waited, so excited, as it got darker and darker, scanning the water line, asking each other 10,000 times, “Where do you think it will come up?” And, “Do you see a little light over there?” Trying to pinpoint the spot it would rise. And then, finally, “There it is!!!”
Why is this so exciting? I don’t know. But most of what you’re seeing is reflection on the water; it’s really just a little sliver of a moon, so far, skimming the water line.
And then we were treated to a bit of a light show. . . sparking pink on the water . . .
Then turning yellow. Hello.
Lighting the ocean on fire for one perfect moment in time; how could it get any better than this?
Here comes a fishing boat going home to Menemsha, about to cross the path of the moon; how must it feel to be on that boat?!!! The put-put sound of the engine, the clanging of the rigging, the smell of the sea in the cold wind, the water rushing past the bow, and then, the moon. Lucky!
I hope they did! ♥
So, after taking about 200 photos of this view :-), we got back in the car and drove along the north shore taking more pictures as we went . . .
What a view — I wonder if the owners of this house are inside but turned off the lights to watch this??? I would. And I’d be playing this music too! ♥ Bella Luna!
This is the Edgartown Lighthouse . . . see the red light? It blinks! I got it!! 🙂 So wonderful that we are digital now . . . otherwise I would have gone totally broke on the film for this little outing!
And yet, I will publish an out of focus picture like this! But how could I not? We were “coming to” from being moon drunk, and began to notice how beautiful the Edgartown architecture looked in the moonlight, details gleaming white in the dark.
Edgartown is a very pretty little New England town. But it’s a summer town; almost all the businesses close down in the winter, and many of the homes are occupied only during the summer. If you are ever looking for peace and quiet, Edgartown in the winter is the place to go. This is part of the Charlotte Inn, one of the prettiest Inns on the island.
The beautiful Federated Church . . . built in 1828; the congregation was established in 1642. But I digress. How can I help it. Sublime beauty calls.
It was a wonderful drive back to our neighborhood . . . the moon shined its light on us the whole way. ♥
Full moons wake me up…. I think I have thin eyelids or something, because I’ve always been able to sense or “see” light even with my eyes closed! Here’s the moon around 2 am this morning.
If you have my calendar, you already know that Native Americans called the first moon of the year the “Wolf” moon. They had nature-inspired names for all the moons; next month it will be the “Snow” moon. I recently gave away a Bookmark that includes the dates of the full moons for 2012 and all the Native American names for them . . . in case you just came here from Willard and missed it, here it is again. Click on “bookmark” and you can print it out and become a moon chaser yourself. It was really fun; next time I’m packing a picnic! I think a soft little roast beef and lettuce sandwich, heavy on the mayo, lots of salt and pepper, would be very nice in the warm car with the moon shine. (Notice moon shine is two words! :-))
OK girls, you probably know by now, we have a special give-away today, Valentine’s Day is coming . . . I mentioned in the Willard that I was giving away a signed copy of one of my Love Books, but I’m really giving away two! To the same person! ♥ One for whoever wins the random drawing, and one for the winner to give away to someone they love! I hope one of those two books goes to YOU!!! All you have to do is leave a comment (just click on the little gray word “comment” at the bottom of this post), and that will enter you in the drawing. I’ll let you know who the winner is in a couple of days. Until then, have a wonderful day girlfriends, be good to yourself! ♥
Magic ! Can’t decide which one is more beautiful – on the water or the way the moon gets caught in the trees ! I am not near water and get to see the trees all the time, so thanks for sharing. And thanks for the idea for the picnic…..wonderful. How nice of you to give away two books…what a “girlfriend” thing to do – if I win I will give the other copy to my friend who has her birthday on Valentines Day – how perfect would that be ? Thanks so much for being YOU….have a great day !
Hi Susan,
Many years ago I saw your book, Christmas Joy, on a table of Christmas books at a bookstore. The cover intrigued me and when I found a quote by Gladys Taber, just knew that was the book to give my mom for Christmas that year. (My grandma and mom loved reading Gladys Taber books). We discovered you with that sweet, treasure of a book and have been fans ever since.
Thanks for the pictures of the moon and the lighthouse – my mom will enjoy seeing them too.
Hugs to Girl Kitty and Jack:)
Heidi
What a wonderful way to start my day! It’s so much fun to read how you and Joe enjoy life to the fullest! Walked outside last night so I could enjoy the full moon and it was beautiful !!!!!!
I woke up this morning, went out to have coffee, (7:30 in Ill.) full moon still shining across our pond. It was beautiful!!
The wolf moon was impressive here in Pennsylvania also. I received your “LOVE” book as a present many years ago. In fact it was my first “Susan Branch” book. I love that little book. I had become a fan of yours through your illustrations of recipes in “Country Living” magazine. In fact I still have most of those recipes pages protected behind plastic in a notebook. I just printed the valentine bookmark from “Willard” and placed it in my copy of “LOVE”. The perfect place for it. Thanks for the gift.
Moon shine – beautiful.
Hello Susan from New Zealand, here in the Southern Hempishere we see the same moon – totallyWONDERFUL isn’t it.
We are in summer here (BLISS having lovely hot summer days) and many of us that follow the seasons call the January moon – wort moon, as it’s time to gather herbs (worts) to dry, I’ll wave to you next full moon as I look and enjoy her too.
Love Leanne NZ
Love all the moon pics, Susan! We here in northern Illinois have also been having ‘warm’ (40’s, today even 50!) days and clear skies, so the moon has been very much in evidence. Last night I walked out of the house on my way to the garage and spotted the moon, ran back inside and said to my husband, ‘you have to see this’ and managed to get him to the front door to see the rising moon. He really enjoyed seeing it, and I was so glad to be able to share it with him. Thanks for all those pictures! Don’t you love when the moon is just beginning its journey above the horizon and is so big and orange! So amazing.
Thanks for the giveaway, too! I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
(And Willard was WONDERFUL!)
I love your moon photos. *She* is really a beautiful sight. Thanks for giving us a chance to win “Love”. Lovely!
Checking your bookmark gift for the January full moon, I hastily put out my crystals (after a quick bath in pure water) for a little rejuvenation! I also slipped out about 3 am for a viewing. In the distance I could hear the coyotes singing and I joined them in a silent howl (can’t wake up the family and neighbors!). Do include me in your drawing and thank you for the incredible Wolf Moon pictures. I am totally envious of your two nights of chasing the moon!
Gorgeous! The best things in life are free – however – I sure would like to spend some time at that beautiful Inn!!! Now, as wonderful as this post was, you did mention tea, and cups and saucers!!! Want to see that, yes I do! Love to you and all the girlfriends on this blog :o)
I’ll do it!!
All I can say is WOW. And AH. And Oooooo. How gorgeous can it ever get!?! I love a full moon and the natural night light that it brings – beautiful!! Can still hear my mom singing “By the light….of the silvery moon……..” Very lovely way to start (or end) the day! Muchas Gracias! Love the keepsake book – ! AND most importantly, How is Jack???? XOXO to you and yours! chm
We pick Jack up at 3:30 — but I spoke to the vet and he’s fine!! Thanks for asking — have a great day!
A ton of kitty kisses to your boy – he’ll be back to being “Jack” in no time!
He’s doing good! Probably mad at me for changing his regular schedule of never ending play punctuated by FOOD.
I always have a smile and a giggle when I see you have a post up. Just love your blog, books and old Willard too! Put my new calander on the fridge and am ready for all the wonderful newness of the year. Thanks for brightening my day and thank you full moon for brightening our nights!
Thank YOU Stacey!
I posted earlier, but it still says, “Awaiting Moderation….”
Anyway, I wanted to add that it is Rod Stewart’s Birthday! (Jan. 10, 1945) When I hear his music, I always think of when I worked in your store in the Village, and we always played his CD!! 🙂
I have to “approve” all of these so the crazy spam doesn’t get through and it always takes me a while! I’ll find your other comment sooner or later. Happy Birthday Rod Stewart!! 🙂
I hope you can find it!! I loved your BLOG today…..Well, I always love it but REALLY loved it today!! 🙂
Thank you Susan, the pictures of the moon..so beautiful! But the pictures you snapped of the church took my breath away! They look like Christmas card art!! You are so lucky to live in such beautiful surroundings!xoxoxo!!!!
I have never in my life seen a moon rise! I didn’t even know there was such a thing. It’s always just been there, up in the sky, whenever I’ve noticed it. It’s sorta like the first time I realized that the stars don’t go somewhere during the day. 🙂
Your photographs are more than astonishing–capturing the reflection in the water. Thank you for sharing them with us.
I have a question concerning today’s Willard. Could you tell me the name of the pattern of the pretty dish on the left (the white with red roses) in the photo with the Valentine garland? And I wanted to comment we would never have noticed your mistake if you hadn’t pointed it out–and I’m a very good proofreader! It’s because we are too enamored with your drawings to notice anything but the beauty of the picture.
I think there’s something wonderful about never seeing something before, and then seeing it. How exciting!!!
Those dishes are Johnson Brothers Rose Chintz.
So happy the missing S in Reasons didn’t jump out at you . . . I missed it too, you make me feel better about that! Thanks Cathy!
Hello Susan!
Just got back from the grocery store and I bought everything that I need to make your yummy chicken stock and soup! I love reading your blog and how you find such Joy in all the little things in life! You are a bright spot in my day! Thank you for being such a blessing to all of us! 🙂
Blessings,
Terry
Thanks for the beautiful pictures of the moon–you make me wish for a Canon camera. You and Joe are good photographers! It was fun to “go along” on your moon chase. Please invite me along next time with the roast beef/lettuce sandwiches–I’ll bring something to drink while we watch the “moon shine”–chuckled at your joke about that. Incidentally, was that a ghost in the upper window of the Federated Church caught in your photo? 🙂
Verrrry likely Pat!
Dear Susan,
How lovely. What a wonderful idea – to change your plans and chase the Beauty that comes into your life. Looking at the pictures, tears came into my eyes for the beauty of the moon and the houses and the heart that shared them.
I already have this book ( I think I have all your books), but I love to give presents and it would be wonderful to give away two of your books to special friends. I wish all of us another day filled with Love and Beauty and Joy.
Lorraine
First – hope all goes well for Jack today! My husband bought me a copy of Romantic Homes & spotted Jack’s ears behind the cake pans in one of the pix. I’ll have the issue in my little hands when he returns for his weekend home from his current assignment in Boston area. What a guy to do that for me!
This is the winter we’re having summer during the day and winter at night along the California coast. Heard a snowboarder interviewed on NPR yesterday – he said that the Farmer’s Almanac predicts moisture beginning the middle of this month. All the US (except upper northwest) needs snow and rain!
Saw the moon this morning on my way back from Starbucks run! Thank you so much for the terrific island views : )
Love all the moons! And all the Valentine talk! I had my very first tea because of you. Thank you for that! I found a lovely little tea shop that sells wonderful teas, my favorite so far is Strawberry Cream! Yum! I love getting Willard’s. It’s just like getting a visit from a girlfriend!
Am sitting in front of my lap top reading all you have to write about to my John, he is from England, and yes we have our spot of tea, at tea time. Sitting looking at the bella luna, and the Wolf Moon, was just so georgeous, I do also find that the moon does most certain, effect moods, and it energizes all, embrace the romantic moon, bask in its glow – love, love all that you do, the joy you send to all of us, I say luv ya and thank you for giving us all so much =0)
Along with so many others I love your blog, I could just “move into” Charlotte Inn. Thanks is so much for giving special thoughts and special moments.
Thank you for your beautiful moon pics, Susan! They were wonderful. I so enjoy your blog & website (as does my hubby – who reads it over my shoulder). Your encouraging words, photos, and art bless me everyday.
I would “LOVE ” to be the lucky one ;0 Thanks for the opportunity
Love, love your blog, Susan! It started my day just right this morning. I’m looking out my window at snow.
Must be pretty!
good morning susan, hello everyone. what lovely photos of the full moon, its been beautiful here. must be like you and have thin eyelids as i see the light of the full moon when it comes and have to get up and see it. how is jack this morning, is he doing okay??? sorry i can’t stay here long, my friend’s husband took a turn for the worst last night and is back in ICU and i am on my way to pick to up his adult kids to bet them to the medical center to see their father before its too late. apparently its not looking good. he is no longer breathing on his own and the fever went higher. hope everything is going well there, and thank you for the moon shots. have a good day everyone. hugs…. 🙂
Oh dear, my prayers go out to you Pat.
thank you susan, its looking pretty grim for him, i just got home and i’m already getting calls from the kids (adults) to come and pick them and get them home. how is jack doing is he home yet??? well back to the medical center and pick them up and hopefully get something in the oven for dinner tonight. “sigh”
Susan I love love love this post! Beautiful photo’s!! And I swear that we were separated at birth or something because this morning when I got up about 6.45am the birds were singing a most beautiful dawn chorus! Then when I left the house for work the birds were still singing but the moon was in the sky and the sky was a beautiful glowing colour! The birds were still singing and I thought what a beautiful surreal moment that was! Isn’t that funny a vast ocean between us and both mesmerized by this same particular moon! Gives me goosebumps! lol xxxx
Me too, wish I could walk moon rays over to your side!
🙂
Thank you so much for sharing pictures of your town and harbor. I read all I can about the island but your photos really make it come to life. If I should ever win a lottery (which I don’t play – ha) I would buy a home right on the ocean somewhere and enjoy the view everyday! What a beautiful B&B, it sparkles at night – beckoning us in to enjoy the comforts there. Thank you so much for your delightful blog!
I read a funny quote one time, “I figure I have the same chance of winning the lottery whether I play or not!” 🙂 Thanks for being here Elizabeth!
Susan,
Your blog is like reading a personal gratitude journal. In fact, that’s just what it is! Your gratitude and joy for life brings a joyful smile to my heart each time I read it, and to so many, many others! The pictures are gorgeous. And yes, I did see that beautiful moon last night, but without camera in hand. That won’t happen next time! lol Printing out your bookmark now. Thank you girlfriend!
That’s exactly how I feel every day, so grateful. That CAT, for one thing, he makes my eyes roll up to the sky everyday with thanks!!
Love certainly abounds when you post, Susan! I didn’t see the moon during the night but, on my drive to an 8 a.m. appointment, there it still was – surrounded by pale blue sky! I just smiled to myself and imagined how many others were enjoying it elsewhere at the same moment. Am eagerly awaiting the arrival of Willard! Love to you always…
Ah…Moonbeams and Memories! Loved your photos of the moonlight. Your photos brought back a long distant memory…….. of the first boy I ever had a “crush” on, many decades ago. We met on family vacation…..he was at the beach with his family, I with mine. He lived in Virgina, I lived in New Jersey. The last night of vacation, we sat on the beach and looked at the moon…….two starry eyed kids.
Three weeks after I returned home from vacation…..I recieved a package from him in the mail. Inside was a jar……filled with silver glitter……and a note that said……these are our moonbeams…….whenever you think of me…..just make a wish on the moonbeams and I will be close at heart!
I guess I forgot about that sweet boy, and the moonbeams in a jar……until I read your post……what a memory jogger…….ah…….wishing on moonbeams….no matter where you are…..the moonbeams tie you together!
Thanks Susan!
Also hope Little Jack does well…….he may have a few uncomfortable days with stiches…….so an extra dose of TLC will be in order……….and Girl Kitty…..hopefully will come around soon! Our furry kids……what a blessing!
I never noticed the missing ” S ” on your calendar as I was enjoying reading everything else on the January page. The Everly Brothers opening on your Willard was great–I was such a fan of their music and I remembered every word. Your Wolf Moon photos are beautiful. They bring back memories of my visit to your lovely island. My old high school sweetheart ( many years later ) brought me there and we explored the whole island. He recently passes away but I have wonderful memories. Loved your new teapot. It will be perfect for Valentine’s Day.A girlfriend I worked with in nursing gave me a heart decorated vase with a red rose one Valentine’s Day. She also is no longer with us so every Valentine’s Day I put a red rose in that vase to remember all the happy times. So everyone have a happy day and enjoy those moon photos !!
So happy you didn’t notice, that’s how I hoped it would be for everyone! 🙂 Love the way you remember your girlfriend Connie.
I am always amazed how bright the moon can be, and how well you can see by it’s light. In Oregon it is always a treat when the sky isn’t too cloudy. But I do love the moon peaking through the clouds, it is so pretty. The moon rising on the water is so lovely hope I get to see that when I visit the east coast soon. Much love to you and all the moon watchers out there!
Thanks Rebekah!
Hi Susan,
I woke up very early this morning thinking I had left a light on in the kitchen because of the glow. I got out of bed, walked down the hall and there was a big, bella luna glowing through the kitchen window greeting me. What a sight! Everything in the room had an effervesence. I love your moon photos. Not only are they beautiful but they show the soul of a true artist! Thank you for all that you do. Your blog is a true delight.
xoxo pam
That was so sweet Pam, thank you!!!
“It must have been moonglow that led you straight to” Martha’s Vineyard. This song has been on my mind ever since your last post about the moon. I have always loved the moon, and used to moon chase with my late husband. At the time we lived in western Oklahoma with wide open skies for moon watching. Many special moments were accompanied by that moon! Thank you for reminding me of happy times. I still love to moon watch…I have your bookmark (printed several to give friends) so I can keep up with full moon dates. Can’t wait to get “Willard” newsletter!
Thank you Sherry!
On the opposite coast, we too were watching the moon above Mt Rainier. It was so bright that there were shadows. So gorgeous.
I’ve taken the train through that area, the prettiest of all the train rides I’ve ever been on!
Just had gum surgery yesterday – your moon photos made me smile – just what I needed. Thank you – for all your posts. 🙂
🙂 LOL, be careful!
That photo of the orange reflection on the water is breathtaking. Thanks so much for sharing. You’re the “bomb”!
Thank you for the post and pictures of the moon from last evening and night. It was cloudy and rainy here in Arkansas so it was hidden behind some very thick clouds. I try to get out and view the moon every evening, but especially during the full-moon phase. It is always an inspiration to know that God would make something so beautiful for all of us to enjoy. I would love to have your “Love” books and I know who I could share the gift book with. Love is always something to celebrate, whether it is Valentine’s day or just an ordinary day.
Thank you Donna!!
Good morning Susan
Loved the photos. The moon was beautiful here in Canada as well.
You must have a fantastic camera to take such great shots. Makes me want to learn how to take better pictures.
I’m so enjoying your blog. Keep up the wonderful work!
Susan M
Thank you for your wonderful photos. They are lovely and so evocative. I can almost smell the sea air.
Teensy tiny suggestion – whatever computer you’re using, either Mac or PC, will have a “straighten” button (among other things like colour balance, etc.) right in your photo album where all your photos are stored. Just press it and bingo, the horizon line is automatically straightened. No more head tilts. 🙂
Hello Girlfriend:
My daughter started her Susan Branch collection a few years ago and shared a Susan Branch book and calendar with me. Each year she has given me books and calendars of your wonderful works. Now together we follow you on your blog. How I would love to give her a book signed by you. She turly is my Valentine! Thank you girlfriend for all the smiles you bring to us! Many hugs, Fran
The pictures are so lovely. It all looks so quaint and picturesque. I want to plan a visit. Thank you for the giveaway, here’s hoping I win!!
Dear Susan,
I can’t tell you how inspiring and delightful I always find your Willard’s. I only just now, found your blog, from reading my new Willard.
Thank you for telling me that gorgeous moon was called a Wolf Moon…I watched it come along early, on saturday evening, with my 94 yr. old dad, who was the first to notice it, and in the subsequent evenings to come.
Again, thank you for all your good tips. I have enjoyed them. You live in such a wonderful place and you make the most of it. Somehow, I just know you would make the most of anyplace you were.
Gerri
Oh thank you Gerri, so nice!
Thank you for your wonderful photos. They are lovely and so evocative. I can almost smell the sea air. La bella luna! Now I’m thinking of the movie Moonstruck. Happy sigh.
Teensy tiny suggestion – whatever computer you’re using, either Mac or PC, will have a “straighten” button (among other things like colour balance, etc.) right in your photo album where all your photos are stored. Just press it and bingo, the horizon line is automatically straightened. No more head tilts. 🙂
Am I making you dizzy? 🙂 Thank you for that!!
NO, not at all. 🙂 Well, dizzy with happiness maybe. I love your blog. It settles me, and helps me get through what are always very long, often dark winters up here in Quebec.
(Also, since this is a draw for books, you might want to withdraw one of my earlier replies. I inadvertently posted twice when my computer balked.)
It wasn’t your computer, our whole system was balking yesterday! 🙂 Our number chooser knows and only chooses one of each address! Ahh, computers!
I loved this post! Gorgeous pics of the moon and of things around the island. Thank you for sharing with us.
Well, Dear one! Such free beauty does abound! We love our moon, too, and the little squirrels that dart around our home, and the chirping of the little chiptachickmouses (grandson’s word for either tufted titmouse or chickadee…we’re never quite sure) God made the best entertainment of all, don’t you think?
I was also curious….how frequently do you commence to cursing over your rapidographs? With a broken tip, india ink in my fresh manicure (grrrr), and switching out pieces and parts….I’ve decided to fix another cup of coffee, in my Emma B. british birds mug…and come here to you; to this marvelous place where I am always inspired and renewed. Okay, so…i’m already feeling better about things….will try again:)
Your ever loyal fan and friend,
Christie
Rapidographs! Who invented them? The worst is that they don’t sell them on the island; I’ve had them break on a Saturday and been stuck! Learned my lesson! No, of course, never give up! 🙂
What beautiful photos of your New England town with the full moon shining on it. I just keep gazing at the pictures and imagining I’m there, just like I did as a child.
The imagination is a wonderful thing! Free too!
Wow I am overwhelmed!! Came to check the blog for news on Jack and found all these great pics. Then received Willard and then HAD to go place a order for some great offerings…. You make my day and week!
Thanks
Debbie Hope Jack is doing well.
We get to pick him up at 3:30 today, but the vet says he’s fine!
Fantastic photos Susan ! I love the moon as well , at times Papa and I will drive the 6 min drive from us to a small fishing town just off the shores of lake Erie to take photos when the moon is out ! Have a wonderful day !
Love the moon photos! My son, who is 9, and I make a point of finding the moon each evening and seeing how beautiful it is. It’s comforting watching over us 🙂
It is and will keep you joined when he grows up and moves away (pay no attention, it’s a long long time before that happens! :-))
Beautiful!
Love the pics of the moon and all it reveals in your pretty part of the world. I love your sense of whimsy, and amazment. Glad I signed up as a follower! Please sign me up for the books, too!
Hugs…
You’re in Terri!
My girlfriend gave all 8 of her friends(The Deer Ridge Ya Ya’s we call ourselves) the moon bookmark for a New Years gift. My sons and I anxiously awaited the Wolf Moon arrival and we were not disapointed! Thank you for giving us something to look forward to each month as we are using this as a learning tool. My girlfriend Michelle and I both share a love of your books and calenders, its other thing we have in common. We have given eachother your books as gifts and enjoy them immensely. Thank you for all you do! (If my name got drawn, I know exactly whom I would give the other book to-my friend Michelle, a true sister in my heart of hearts).
So nice! Say hello to those Deer Ridge Ya Ya’s for me? What are you all doing for Valentine’s Day?
Beautiful pictures … beautiful little trip in your gorgeous town. Thank you so much for taking the time to share with everyone. I always look forward to your posts! It starts my day out “sun shin-ie” even though I live in SoCal and it feels and looks like spring! 🙂
I’m glad I’m not the only one with an irrational love for the moon! She has been spectacularly brilliant the last few nights. Thanks so much for your blog. It is a treasure and never fails to brighten my day and bring me back to the little things in life that are truly important.
Hi from unseasonally warm Illinois – love the moon photos! We’re big on skywatching here, too – have a telescope we like to get out now and then, set up, and sit outside admiring whatever the sky gives us.
Oh! Saw a lovely article in the latest issue of Country Woman – soooo made me think of you – a sweet lady in Wisconsin, Kathy Engler, throws a Valentine party for her girlfriends, and the pictures are so lovely! She’s a heart collector from way back, and gets them all out for this event. Anyway, her heart “tree” and collections just did MY heart good to see, and she and her girlfriends “had a blast thumbing through 1970s Seventeen magazines saved from their high school days.” Doesn’t that sound like a hoot? 🙂 It can be seen online if anyone cares to, just find the magazine and look for the Feb/Mar issue.
Only thing was, I couldn’t help but think about how the goodies mentioned as edibles for the party would soooo not be in line with your blog post concerning healthy eating and getting in shape for the New Year, haha! 😉
Hugs to you and all the girlfriends, and here’s hoping little Jack never knows what hit him! 🙂
Hi Susan! I am swooning from all of the loveliness (is that a word????) I want to live in the Charlotte Inn….sigh!!! Thank you so much for taking the time to share this with all of us non-island dwellers 🙂 ♥
I forgot to add…I watched The Help last night and said OMG Aibileen has Susan Branch’s stove in her kitchen 🙂 and so happy Jack is doing well!
I love Valentine’s Day, and rose hip tea, and cute little sandwiches, and pretty little edible goodies arrayed on the table. I also love the moon in all Her glory….I call her the Goddess Celene. Thank you for the bookmark and thank you for bringing such a good and warm and fuzzy feeling to my heart every time I read your blog!
What beautiful photos, and how lucky you are to live where you do, and can see the full Wolf Moon rising from the sea! Here in New Jersey it was cloudy, so I didn’t get to see the moon rise, but did get to view it when it was sailing high in the sky, keeping company with Jupiter high in the South!
Loved the beautiful and so bright Wolf moon last night! Would love to win your book too!
Hi Susan, your Moon pictures are so beautiful, they touched my heart, and I’m alittle embarrassed to admit, they brought tears to my eyes.
I have to say, me too, you aren’t alone! Beauty makes me cry too.
Thank you for the beautiful photos of the moon. Unfortunately for me, last night it was cloudy and raining here in Texas so I’m extra thankful for your photos.
Maybe tonight will be clearer?
I have been away for several days and I really missed your blog. My daughter lives in New Bern, NC. It is a lovely town with lots of rivers and water views and lovely old houses in the downtown area. I loved seeing the moon over the water there. Can’t write any longer, I must get back reading your blogs!!! Thank you for the lovely pictures.
How wonderful it is to see the beauty of the night sky with the moon so much in it’s glory, your photos are so enjoyable to see! I always feel the peace and tranquility when I see views like those. Makes me miss the times I’ve spent around Lake Superior. Thanks for showing all of us the beauty you see!
I was in my 40s before I realized the moon rose in in the east. Where I live now, it rises from behind the Cascade mountains. The moon rising from behind mountains is a beautiful sight too. I loved all of your photos. You have such a generous heart!
Warmly and with appreciation,
Brenda
Well, I was going to tell you how much I enjoyed today’s ‘Willard’ and enter the drawing, but your blog post was so beautiful. I enjoyed every picture. Thank you for brightening my day/week/Valentines Day with your words, art and pictures.
Glad you’re here Janet! Thank you!
What beautiful pictures! Thanks for the post-even if I don’t win the books I got to see some really beautiful pictures of the moon. Thanks for the picture of Jack in Willard, just can’t get enough of him!
Beautiful!! Your blog always brightens my day! ~ Thank you ♥
Happy Valentines Day to you whether I win or not! Enjoy your tours to Martha’s, someday I’d like to visit.
Ok, so I SHOULD be in my sewing room today creating. But instead, I’m here, reading your blog. Imagine my happy surprise when I logged on and found not one new entry, but TWO! I’ve been sitting here now for the better part of an hour reading and relishing your moon pictures. What a nice way to start my day!
January has been productive so far in that I’ve waxed all the wood floors, cleaned all the rugs and put them back in place, cleaned my refrigerator top to bottom, packed away all the Christmas decorations, indoor and out and have moved the furniture to better positions! Now I just need some me creative time.
Another quilt is in the wings and I must start. I’ve been to the fabric shop and have all the supplies that I need. It’s up to me now! I also still have the story running around in my head banging on my cerebellum. It MUST be released!
So much to do and never enough time. Now, I believe I must first make some soup to nourish my soul while I create. And of course, there will be a Willard waiting for me tomorrow! I can’t wait!!
Wishing a wonderful and warm January day to you Susan and all the girlfriends!
Holly in Colorado
Dear Susan,
Thank you for sharing your love of the moon. I have been in awe of the moon ever since I was in the third grade and we each had to make a “moon book”.
We were to track the moon for a month and to draw pictures of the different phases in a little book we made. I was the first one to turn my book in – I was able to complete it with the help of my father, who loved the moon as much as I did. He has been gone for such a long time, but I still look at the moon and a wonderful, happy feeling comes over me as I remember him and my little moon book.
Thank you,
Susan S.
Beautiful moon shots! Summer places are always more fun in the winter for those of us who live in them. I live in Morro Bay and work in the library up in Cambria and both towns are much more fun when the tourists are gone (and our weather is always nicer in the off season also, no fog!) – but you know that!
Erin in Morro Bay
Hello Susan and Everyone,
What an uplifting LOVE blog!! So great to get us thinking about it with enough time to plan. Time flies and its good to be so nicely reminded. The most LOVED idea “the best things in life are free”. LOVE that quote!
Hope everyone is well and enjoying winter peacefully.
LOVE and Peace,
Doreen
Beautiful post! I also chased the moon last night as it rose, looking huge and yellow. It was gorgeous, but you were faster than me with getting your camera out! 🙂
Hi Susan!
Thank you so much for sharing pictures of your town in its splendor. I have always wanted to visit Marthas Vineyard, and your pictures and stories fuel that desire daily. I have given your “Love” book as a gift but don’t have one for myself yet……who knows, maybe soon!! Spending time with you here, is a time I look so forward to.
Ahhh..lovely…you are so good to us…taking us around the island, allowing us to join your fun…..I can’t wait until ‘we’ go to NYC….and I’d love to win the giveaway.
Off we go to New York! Fun! I love taking you with me! Where shall we go next?
How beautiful! Thanks for chasing the moon for us to enjoy! Would love to win the books!
That moon looks gorgeous! You take the most beautiful pictures! And so great that you are having such lovely weather. Its been chilly here in Seattle, but weather says we are going to be getting SUN today. YIPPPPPEEEEE for Vitamin D!! 🙂
Oh ya, hope that little man Jack is feeling good!
Love the photo tour!! Sunday night when the moon rose we all ooohd and ahhhd at the beauty reflecting on the water. Unfortunately, last night was very cloudy and we didn’t get to experience it. Thank you for sharing the tour with us! The only thing that would make it any better would be SNOW!
Hello again, Susan! Since my original post is still awaiting moderation :-), I thought I’d let you know again that I really do love your photos and have been enjoying the moon here on Camano Island, Washington, as well. Sunday night was clear as a bell, last night was cloudy and rainy and tonight looks to be clear with the sun setting over Mt. Baker. I’m watching for the moonrise over the bay! Now if we really get the snow they are saying we will this weekend, I will be one very happy girl!
Thank you and I hope your baby is doing well today.
I love the moon shots. It makes we want to get a new camera!
Lovely Luna pictures and makes me want to beat a path right to M.V. and New England. Love it all so much, you are one lucky ducky to live in such surreal beauty. Thanks for sharing those awesome pictures. xoxoxo
Out here in the west I see moon rise above fir trees, not an ocean. That water reflection is wonderful. I know what you mean about the luxury of picture taking with digital. My dad used to ask when I took a picture, “Is it worth 50 cents?” (the cost of film and developing a print then).
Susan, your posts take me on a little mini-vacation each time! LOVED seeing your beautiful island today. I’ve never been there, but love Maine, and your lighthouse pictures made me smile BIG!
How have I missed this book?!! I am a lover of all things hearts and Valentines, and I would love to have a special signed copy of this for me and a special “other”. Pick ME, please, pretty please??
Thank you so much for that trip with the Moon. Living in the city I just don’t get the same effects. I do follow the full moon and I let know her know how beautiful she is. Last night I slept with the curtains open and the bedroom was so bright that it was like a candle was lit. I love falling to sleep with a smile on my face. Pearl-kitty sat in the window for the longest time. I know she was wondering what that “thing” was out there making all that light. Thanks again for sharing all that beauty. Have a great Tuesday, Girlfriends!! P.S. How’s Jack?
beautiful tour …hope to one day see for myself in person : )
What a wonderful moon rise tour. I live clear on the other side of the country, on an island in Puget Sound, and my husband and I chase the moon as well. Last night I could see it at midnight through our skylight.I love how it lights up the land,you feel like you could read a book outside-or dance in it- it’s so bright! We don’t get to see it every month, when it’s full-on full;it can be very cloudy here any time of year,so it is a special treat when it’s clear. And then the ships going by,their lights little stars on the water,I just delight in it all. I also chase sunsets:-}Have a lovely day.
Pathological enthusiasm – I love when that happens! It is infectious. I am definitely moonstruck from your gorgeous photos. Bee-u-tiful! And P.S., one of my best girlfriends says she is making me a quilt using photos of my darling little granddaughter and Susan Branch fabric. Yay!
Yes, the early Wolf Moon woke me up yesterday morning as it was setting outside our bedroom windows. I got up at 4:45 to watch it end its show. Lovely. I enjoyed Willard today! I liked the idea of a Valentine tea. Several years ago when I turned 50, I gave 5 of my best girlfriends (each friend just happened to be from a different decade of my life!) a copy of “Girlfriends Forever”. I felt like Oprah….”You get a book, you get a book, you get a book….” ha ha. Having a tea with them would be such good fun. Friendships need to be nurtured, I believe, and not taken for granted. Anyway, thanks for the ideas…time to go “shopping”!
I love the tours you give us of your magical island…such a beautiful place to call home! I look forward to all your blog posts as you seem to enjoy the simple oldfashioned things in life as much as I do.
Thank you! Loved all your pictures of your little town! The moon lit up our yard and the salt marsh on Sunday evening and again last night until the snow moved in. We were also treated to an amazing moon rise. Thank you for putting all of this into lovely words!
NO WORDS EXCEPT……..BREATHTAKING, BREATHTAKING, BREATHTAKINGLY HEAVENLY……………..I AM TOO BUSY BREATHING IN THESE PICTURES…….THANK YOU SUSAN – THANK YOU FOR THE TOUR, AND WISH I WERE THERE TOO.
Oh yes – the best things in life are free! Thank you for the moon light serenade and the bookmark. I missed seeing the Wolf moon rise over California, last night, so I’m so glad I got to see it through your lens. I love this age of digital photography – it IS like the pictures are free! Free to try and try again, till you get the picture you’re looking for…The one with the boat crossing the moonbeam on the sea is my favorite, though I love the lighthouse too (how DO they sleep at night, with such a giant nightlight?). And loved looking at all the Edward Hopper’s paintings too. Thank you for all the sweet eye candy. Love you and your happy, creative ways. Wishing you a wonderful day!
Oh, Susan, sharing your evening makes my day!
Thanks for the wonderful blog, Susan! You are so much fun!
Wow!!! thank so much for sharing your moon adventure. You have and are helping me to appreciate the beauty (free) around me. I could feel the beauty of your nighttime trip through the photos and your descriptions. I saw the same moon driving home late from work on the freeway. Not quite the same adventure but still so beautiful. Now I’m off to buy some flowers and make chicken soup!!
Oh Susan I love your photography of our moon! Is it not the most glorious? It is wonderful to gaze into the heavens at our incredible solar system–what a wonderful world! Our eight year old grandson loves the moon. When he was a toddler, he would walk around looking for the moon, and got so excited when he spotted it! I hope for all of us that we never lose the excitement and marvel of our universe!
Sending well wishes to Master Jack! ♥
What wonderful photos of the moon in all its beauty. Thanks so much, Susan, for sharing this with us. I love the winter night sky, the stars are so much brighter, and the air is crisp and clean. We had a lovely bright moon here on the west coast last night. Today is beautiful and sunny. Cold, but who cares, the sun is shinning. Hurrah!
I would love to win your books, anything you do is always fabulous. I would share the other book with my girlfriend who lives a ferry ride away, and since I have moved to Vancouver Island, I don’t get to see her as often as I would like.
Oh! such beautiful moon pictures. I love coming to your blog. I always feel refreshed and calmed and ready to take on whatever my day brings. Thank you for being part of my life.