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! ♥
Love, love, love your blog and books! You inspire me so much! Thank you so much for all the beauty you bring into the world.
Love, love, love the Moon pictures, especially the moon reflected on the water…….very dreamy. Peeked out my Northwest home window and yes, there it is, a nice big full moon. I like the saying “I see the moon and the moon sees me”. I feel like I am there in your part of the world with all the great photos. Look forward to your posts. ~Happiness & Smiles~
I love my bookmark, and I love learning something new. I had no idea that full moons have names.
Can’t wait to see Martha’s Vineyard on a tour in June. And I’m so relieved to see that the ferry is so large. I don’t like little boats. I can handle large ferries if they’re not like the one that goes to Catalina. I think that ferry is unbalanced somehow, don’t you? I usually get my sailor’s legs pretty quickly, but that Catalina boat keeps me stumbling around.
I get so excited when I see that I have a Susan Branch blog. I like Winter.
I looove Susan Branch. The first book I ever purchased was the Baby Love Book…for the birth of my only child. Since then I gift it at every baby shower. I also met Susan once at Conner Praire in Indiana when she did a book signing for her Autumn Book YUM. Please come back to see us Susan. It has been too long.
What a sweet Valentine giveaway!
I love watching the full moon also! Watching it come up over our mountains is just wonderful, and for just a short time, the moon is so big. I love that illusion! Now I need to work on getting better pictures!
BY THE LIGHT, OF THE SILVERY MOON, I WANT TO SPOON, WITH MY HONEY…….
Hi Susan
Isn’t it something that we can all see and enjoy that same magic moon?
I live out in the rural area and when the moons out its like the spot light is on everything, and a million stars to surround it, oh how lovely……
Thank you for sharing all your wonderful pictures and stories, I pass them on to my 89 young mother, who passes them on to her friends, yes she has a computer!
Rebecca, another one from Wa State
I love the pictures of the moon over the Island. Reminds me of the days I spent there and hope to return to. I love following the moon.
Oh my gosh…I love your blog SO much! Getting ready to tuck in for the night and now I want to go out and see what the moon looks like! I’m sure not as awesome as on the Vineyard!!! Thanks Susan~
I treasure seeing the full moon and it always brings a certain joy to my heart. I think it seems like new beginnings and wonderful possibilities. And now I know the names of the moons because of my new bookmark! Thanks so much.
“I AM LOVE WITH MARTHA’S VINEYARD”!!!. It just so happen to be my sister’s birthday (Janurary 9th.) I’m so glad she was able to celebrate her birthday with the most romantic and beautiful moon. Looking up into the sky and seeing the twinkling stars by the ocean. She called me and said this was the “BEST” birthday gift yet!! In addition to going to the movies to see “Descendants” starring George Clooney with her Hubby. Thankyou for sharing!
I have been reading your cookbooks since before I was allowed to use the stove. Your words, paintings, and well picked poems and quotes are apart of my childhood, and for that they now remind me of home. I am away at university now, and come to your blog when I miss my home and family. Thank you for brewing the cure for the common home sickness!
Sasha- a fellow ‘big-ole-fam-jammer’ (youngest of five children)
Thank you for the wonderful pictures of the moon. I enjoy all of your posts but this one was extra special.
As I was driving from Clarksville, TN to Guthrie, KY for my prayer shawl meeting, I was blessed with that full moon as it rose through an array of clouds. It was pure orange splendor. I was mesmerized by its beauty. You are certainly right – The best things in life ARE free! Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
I would love love love to have your books. What a treasure to share.
Love you, too♥♥♥ You are such a blessing and bring so much joy and delight with your blog and Willards. Thanks for sharing your home and life with everyone. I want to visit your beautiful Martha’s Vineyard. When is the best time to visit?
Your photos make me want to visit Martha’s Vineyard so badly! And now I will have to time my visit around a full moon! Am so taken with the full moons too–it was cloudy in OK where I live last night but it was still gorgeous this morning. Thanks for sharing–your picnic idea sounds perfect!
Ohhhhhhhhh, I would LOVE to win! I LOVE Valentine’s Day……in fact I was a Valentine bride 25 years ago!!!! I also LOVE that you are giving away 2 copies. If I win (did I mention that I LOVE to win), I will be giving the 2nd copy away to a sweet, young friend of mine that I dearly LOVE who just announced her engagement last week!!!!
p.s. I also LOVE your blog posts……I especially LOVE hearing about and seeing photos of the cats. I LOVE cats….have 2 of my own (Toby & Tater….don’t you just LOVE the names?).
Loved the pictures of your island and the moon. I’ve only been to Martha’s Vineyard once and would love to make a return visit. I saw the moon while walking my dogs (in PA) last night. Such a glow!
P.S. I’m enjoying the antics of Jack. Such a sweet face.
I love coming home and looking to see if there is an update on SBB (Susan Branch Blog) Ahhhhhh. There is! Yesss… I loved the moon photos; so pretty against the scenes of your historical town. I just love the buildings and the lighthouse and I imagine it as it must of been 100 years ago. Martha’s Vineyard is so very blessed with beauty. I am in heaven when I see your pictures, and feel the warmth of your “Heart of the Home.” Cozy comfort and joy. You make me happy. Thank You.
I love your blog and all you do to the moon and back! Pick me, please…
Thanks so much for taking us on such a lovely ride around the island seeking the best spots to capture the moon. What a treat. Hope Joe enjoyed the time as much as we did.
AND a give away. How wonderful. Such a beautiful book. All your books are extra special. Each transports me to a special retreat where I can savor so many simple pleasures. Thanks.
Susan, I love to read your blog. The words and pitures inspire me. I really enjoyed the moon and do enjoy the moon here in the State of Texas where I live….. LOVE i love this little book and have given several away as part of their wedding gifts. They are so special. I would love to have one for myself….So feel free to have the random name drawer pull my name….
I adore you! Check your blog everyday in hopes there will be a new one to read. Wish you where my real friend, you have so much fun!! I check your fall cookbook out at the library every fall, love to read it again and of course make the dishes. I was fortunate enough to purchase your Christmas book at a yard sale, only one I own, so would love to receive the Love give away, but I will continue to love you if not:) Thank you for sharing so much of yourself, about your self and home, etc. with us all. It really does give me something to look forward too each day. God Bless
Thanks for sharing a fun part of your life with all of us. I enjoyed chasing the moon after you.
I so enjoy all things Susan Branch and was so thrilled to sit in bed tonight, cozy jammies on, cup of tea on the nightstand, reading the new Willard! I can’t believe that you will be giving away one of those beautiful books, autographed by Susan herself! What a conflict I would have if I won – give it away to my BFF who bought me my first Susan Branch book, or treasure it for myself?!? I’d have to give it to her – love isn’t love until you give it away, after all! I actually bought us both a copy of the autographed Summer book last year – LOVE the clam fritter recipe, so yummy and easy!
I’ve been enjoying reading all about Jack and his adventures. He looks like a long lost relative of my kitty Karissa! Anyway, thank you Susan for all of the inspiration to be a better friend and home maker as well as the little reminders to prioritize the important things in life!
Oh my goodness! I read the Willard then this blog post, in that order, and now know that I would not have a conflict if I won! TWO books for the winner! Pick me random number picker – PICK ME, PICK ME! 😉
How dreamy!! I Loved this soooo much! The moon was so beautiful in every photo! I will keep this one (actually, I keep them all) and look and read over and over! The book is so sweet. Who ever wins it will be one lucky lady, well, two lucky ladies will be very happy! Very sweet of you to be so giving!
I loved your blog. I also love looking at the moon, a beautiful sunset or sunrise. I drag my children to the windows to see. I want them to appreciate nature and all its beauty.
What a joy it is to see your photos and messages each morning when I rise. My (recent!) favourite is the video of your kitchen, posted before Christmas, I think, when you go round in a circle and share the room with everyone. Thank you….
This morning some friends and I printed the beautiful book mark ~ of the full moons ~ while at work….I am a librarian in an elementary school and love to share fun factoids. I was actually looking for baby shower inspiration and love your art work. I have been busy decorating my library with snippets of poems from last years calendar today! Thanks for the sharing your joy in life!!
Your moon blog brought the movie “Moonstruck” to mind so enjoyable! Have been a fan of your for many years, love your watercolors and your recipes!
Would so love to win this great giveaway!
Hi Susan, I love your artwork and would be delighted to win your new book. Thanks for the giveaway!
It’s so neat to see a moonrise over the water…I was just admiring the moon coming up here in California, but it came up over the mountains! Some day I’ll get to the east coast and get to witness it myself. Thank you for sharing all the beautiful pictures.
Thanks, Susan, for sharing with us how you live in the present and relish the details of life.
Beautiful photos, Susan! Thanks for sharing and inspiring us!
I love your art work, and would love to win this book.
Thanks for the giveaway!
please pick me to win, it would be moonvelous! Thank you for the Willard and the post today. Loved it!
I saw a National Geographic when I was a little girl about Martha’s Vineyard. Ever since then I have wanted to move there. I still haven’t gotten there, but in the meantime, thank you for the next best thing! Your pictures and words keep my dream alive, what a wonderful gift, again, thank you.
Keepsake: a couple definitions I found.
a gift that evokes memories of a person or event with which it is associated
Something given or kept; a memento
souvenir, symbol, token, reminder, relic, remembrance, emblem, memento, favour a keepsake of their brief encounter
A small item kept in memory of the person who gave it or originally owned it
Aren’t these wonderful? This states just what your book on “Love” is all about. Reading it must be a treasure and a wonderful measure of time well spent consuming it. Thanks for the moon shots. It was cold, crisp and clear with the moon hiding amonst silver lined clouds.
Hi Susan, I always love reading your blog. Hope Jack is feeling well. He’s so cute. My daughter told me he’s a fleur-de-lis tucke. Because of his fancy mustache. Very special. But of course I’m sure you already know how special he is. Hope you have a wonderful new year.
I am so landlocked in the far north of Alberta, Canada but I live at the ocean through your website.
I also love watching the full moon rise from the horizon and watch it change color. Loved your pictures and your blog! Thanks so much!
Susan,
I thank you for coming into my world each day. You have a way of lifting my spirit. Keep up your fabulous work.
Oh Susan, your blog is the best one in blogland! My first click each morning. Thanks for sharing your life with us! Moon chasing is the best ~ sometimes I wish I had kept a moon journal! While I’m typing, it is shining on my shoulder in North central Idaho. Thanks for the generous giveaway! Happy everyday of 2012!
Oh those pictures are just gorgeous! That full moon (or almost) was so awesome coming up over the water. I hope you enjoyed your evening too.
Hugs XX
Barbara
The moon was gorgeous here in Northeastern Pa. Let’s lasso it and put it on a shelf (under glass of course) for all to see…:-) Our four-legged family was acting a tad bit wacky which is normal with the moon phases but we were surprised that the “Coy-dogs” up in the woods weren’t howling! Their mournful cries and the whistle of an owl were both missing.
On another note..keeping my fingers and toes crossed for the set of two books..my very best friend will get the other if I win. <3 <3
I think I have thin eye lids, too! The moon woke me up last night!!! Gotta love the bella luna! And thank you so much for sharing the beautiful pictures of your little island.
I was sad that the sky was so overcast last night – didn’t get to see the full moon – but this morning as I sat at the breakfast table (at 9am which is what I get for living up north), there it was, all peachy in the blue-dawn sky. Lovely!
Oh wow–the moon looked spectacular! The East coast has always fascinated me-maybe someday I will get to see it! The moon AND Edward Hopper reference-wow! He is one of my favorite artists. I have “Painter of Light and Shadow” and love to peruse it when I am dusting my books. Thanks for the amazing blog again! Do you still have your other cat as I haven’t seen a pic or a mention of it in a long time?
Hi Susan,
Just another reason why I love your blog, enjoyed your tour of the island and your moon. (I love the moon too.) Thank you for sharing these wonderful photos and stories. I love seeing the old streets and old houses and that beautiful white church. My father was the last male in his line from King Hooper out of Marblehead. MA, and I have always had a love affair with old houses and MA. Can’t thank you enough for sharing your part of MA!!!
Kathy from CT.
Thank you for the beautiful bookmark! I’ve printed two–one for me, one for my friend. Soooo pretty.
I want to stay at that inn! What’s the best time of year, do you think?
Fall!
Love, Love, Love your site, your wit, your recipes and have for such a long time.
Thanks and keep up the great work.
Happy New Year to you and yours.’
Love, Love, Love your wit, your talent, your recipes.
Such a breath of fresh air when I need a break from my work to go into your site, and talk with you.
Thank you much,
Happy New Years!!
The moon here in St. Louis was hovering right outside out living room window as our old, old kitty of 19 years curled up in his basket by the fire, snuggled down and went up to kitty heaven. What a beautiful way to go. I imagine that he finally sprouted his little wings and headed up to the big, beautiful moon. Like your Jack, he was a character and joy. He could carry unbelievably heavy things up from the basement to leave as gifts for us – pipe fittings, shoes, barbie dolls. He was a generous cat. We feel blessed that he chose us as his family.
Thank you Susan, you cause us all to take pause and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation.
Your blog is beautiful and uplifting and REAL. I enjoy the serenity of your style. 🙂 I also love WILLARD and can’t wait to get mine…maybe tomorrow.
Love the blog so much and the Willard. It encourages me to improve my environment each day with the wonderful ideas you and all your readers blog about. Thank you for all your hard work in writing this blog. You are such a inspiration to us all. Janet
Hello Susan,
I watched that amazing moon come up over the Bookcliff mountain range in the Grand Valley of Colorado. Before I could even see the moon, I saw an upward beam of bright light that was so bright that I thought there was a fire! I could not wait to get home to drag my husband onto the porch to share the magic moon shine. It was very cold but worth it!
Oh, this was such a fantastic post! I need to more appreciative of my surroundings and take more pics. Love your “Love” books! My foster son just got engaged on New Year’s Day! Would love to give one to his fiance.
You are such an inspiration to me.. Thank you for all your hard work. Janet
Hello Susan! Hope Jack is resting and is healing by the minute. Your fullmoon and lighthouse pictures are breathtaking!!! Many of our family vacations we would chase lighthouses along Michigan’s Great Lakes. So, your beautiful photos are truly a gift to save. I feel like I’ve had a “mini” vacation without leaving my home!!! Your book looks adorable and so sweet!
Your blog is the perfect day to finish my long day! I would love to add this lovely little book to my Valentine “shelf-scape!” Thanks Susan for taking us along on your adventures! The perfect ones are always free!
I love looking at your pictures!! I have to agree…digital cameras are wonderful! I sometimes have a hard time knowing when to stop.
Reading along with your moon chasing was the perfect way to end my day as I sit with my little pup Sophie snuggled up against me and the rest of the family fast asleep upstairs! Thank you for the chance to win your lovely book, and thank you for the exciting adventures you always take me on! Truly, the best ones are always free!
Oh my, so many comments! I can’t wait to read them all. I wonder who will win??
i am an new england transplant to the west coast. your pictures and talk of the sea lapping sounds makes me homesick. the moon shots remind me of the song by the light of the silvery moon. thanks for the memories.b
The photos really remind me how much I miss the Vineyard. We spent most of our summers there in the late ’80s when we lived in Cambridge, but it’s hard for us to get back now that we live in LA.
And here I was lamenting that I had missed it. Thanks to you I saw it better than I would have here in Cali. Sublime! Thank you Susan!
Susan –
Each time I leave a comment I tell you what an angel you are to all of us. I can hardly wait until your post comes in each day — today was on in a million — I ABSOLUTELY LOVED YOUR PHOTOS — I’ve never seen moon photos captured like that – just amazing! I hope you never tire of talking with us — we all love you so much!
With smiles and happiness,
Sharon
Susan –
Each time I leave a comment I tell you what an angel you are to all of us. I can hardly wait until your post comes in each day — today was one in a million — I ABSOLUTELY LOVED YOUR PHOTOS — I’ve never seen moon photos captured like that – just amazing! I hope you never tire of talking with us — we all love you so much!
With smiles and happiness,
Sharon
Hello Susan!
I’ve been thinking of Jack today. I bet he is not his spunky self for a day or so, but he’ll be back on the window sill again soon, watching the remnants of that gorgeous Wolf Moon you so beautifully shared. I couldn’t wait to see it after your moon-fest last week 😀
I live in the Pacific Northwest, which means I live in the forest! My talented husband built our house and upstairs on the west side of the house he put in a huge round window that he made. It faces the lower field, the pond and the creek (pronounce this “crick”), all surrounded by tall fir, alder and hemlock trees. I remember once he woke me up and asked me to come look! I was so thrilled when he showed me amazing long moon shadows of the trees with the full moon shining right in the middle of that window and throwing sparkling little diamonds off the water in the pond. Oh, so beautiful! All I needed was the song I have fallen in love with – Bella Luna! I played it last night while reading your blog and my husband heard it for the first time. He wanted to hear it again! So much to thank you for, Sue!
Anyway, give little Jack a snuggle and Girl Kitty, too. I’m off to enjoy more moon shadows, and the o-so-many stars that are out tonight! brrrr…
:)Deb
Dear Susan. Thanks to your lovely bookmark I was so excited to experience the first full moon of 2012. Sunday was a beautiful, clear, cold night in Milton, WA and I couldn’t resist a day early opportunity to bask in the glow of the moon. Good that I did as Monday night was cloudy and overcast with no glimpse of a moonbeam in sight. Thank you Susan for sharing your inspired photos. ~karen
Susan, your moon pics are amazing!! I’m so glad that I can see Martha’s Vineyard at night, thanks to you and your camera. I spent one splendid afternoon there in August 2005, taking a zillion photos of Edgartown houses and the lighthouse. There was a little fudge shop in town there. Have you been? The fudge was heavenly, and I can’t think of a better place to eat fudge, besides Heaven. 🙂 Thanks for the chance to win the books!! ♥ ♥
We visited Martha’s Vineyard two times a long time ago. One time on the way back home on the ferry, my husband walked my 11 month old son all over the ferry in his umbroller to get him to go to sleep. Finally, as we docked, he fell sound asleep. We had to get on a little bus to take us to our car, and my husband carefully picked him up and we started to sit down when a man loudly exclaimed, “Oh the little one is asleep, huh?” upon which time everyone in the little bus reprimanded him soundly because they had all watched the long process of getting him to sleep! It was delightful.
I found your beautiful blog by starting in Australia, moving on to Portugal, drifting back into the USA and stopping at Sharon Lovejoy’s blog, and finding yours on the opposite coast! It was an incredible journey and to think each one of the bloggers viewed the same moon and they were struck by awe…thank you for the beautiful photos of the moon-view on Martha’s Vineyard! ~Kari
I recently purchased 5 of your books and I already owned “Autumn” and “Summer”! I purchased this “Love” book for one of my daughters when she got married several years ago. It would be nice to own this book. Your picture tour of the moon was outstanding! You never fail to amaze with your blogs. Thank you!
Hi Susan, we were loving the moon in Pasadena, CA, too! Thanks for the sparkling photos!
Ann
Thank you so much for that lovely, lovely post. I feel like I just took a little vacation. : ) Your enthusiasm is so wonderful and warms the cockles of my soul. Blessings on you, dear Susan!
Oh I love your posts. Always a treat. Thanks for the chance to win the sweet little book.
Love the photos, as usual! As others have said, I am hooked on your site. I find it so inspiring and at the same time it’s a great stress reducer, so I am now addicted. I have been enjoying the moon these past few days (@ Lake Tahoe)…it seems more intense this year for some reason. Thanks for the bookmark too!
I love full moons. But I love glassy “shiny” waters more. When vacationing (driving), I make my husband stop for those “must have” shots. I am so glad he loves me enough ♥. (So I understand you chasing your moon down!!) Oh, forget cruising, I think I need a second camera just for reflecting sunlight on water. Ugh….I even got up BEFORE dawn to catch the earliest light. Now how crazy is THAT?!!!
I love Peter Gabriel….he sends out a video updates only on full moons. You should send him your bookmark link.
But full moons are special to me. I have called full moons…LIZA moons… for the last 10 years as they are for a dearly departed friend and her unborn baby. Not to be sad but that night had a bright full moon which I took as a heavenly sign that they were there now to watch over us. So since then, every month, I get a friendly reminder and think fondly of them.
My daughter (21), at three, pointed to the thin crescent moon hanging in the sky one evening and said “Cheshire Cat”. Took me a while to realize she was referring to how the cat appears in Alice-in-Wonderland. =^.^=
I didn’t realize how much I loved moons. Thanks…….
So glad it wasn’t about chocolate or I would still be writing. hehehe
That would be a wonderful birthday present for my dear twin ‘n me cos that’s our birthday as well and we always need two of everything 🙂 🙂 – in fact, we would be over the moon……………………………………
Dear Susan, thank you so much for all the wonderful words, pictures, memories and goodies you share with us. I have never been to your corner of the world, or met your family and friends, but they live so real-ly in your pages.
“Thank you” a million Susan – for everything.
Happy new year to one and all
Hugs
Marion
UK
love love love this blog and everything it offers…….Lori
Thank you for the glorious moon and sea. I love the smell of the ocean and I can almost smell it in your pictures.
My heart just aches to see Martha’s Vineyard. It is so wonderful, and adorable that I am almost overcome with envy that you folks get to live there. I am on the wrong coast for wonderful vintage architecture.Thanks for all the photos…..! arden in Portland, OR.
Been humming Bella Luna all day since I read this…how magical…funny to think that men were actually walking on the moon’s surface so long ago..xo Breathtaking pictures…thanks for taking us along…
I loved the moon pictures and the fact that you and Joe are moon chasers. I am a light sleeper and I have been known to wake up in the wee hours when the moon moves around to the back of the house where our bedroom is and begins to shine through our bedroom window. It is a beautiful sight for sure. You live in heaven on earth. What a blessing it is. Winter has been very mild over here in the UK this year so far as well. Strange indeed. xxoo
It’s late here, which means it is very late or very early there. I hope your Jack is dreaming sweet dreams and recovering from his rough day.
Thanks so much for this giveaway. It’s so like you to know that we’d each be thrilled to win, but would then, in our heart of hearts, be a bit torn. Share or treasure for ourselves? Now someone will be able to do both. Hugs to you, dear Susan!
Such beautiful photos–thank you for sharing “your” moon!
Loved the new “Willard”…
Love, love, love your blog. I always open it up as soon as it comes in. It always warms my heart and brightens up my day.
OK, I know I should be focusing on the beauty of the moon… and it was beautiful… but as I read, one thing kept nagging at me… What did you have for dinner?! In that atmosphere, it must have been awfully cozy!
I’m blessed to live among the foothills of the mountains in Northeast Tennessee. Watching the full moon enhance features of the mountains and the lowlands below them is just mind boggling. Being an early riser – 4 a.m. most mornings – I don’t think I’ve missed seeing the full moons in probably 11 years (we bought our house 11 years ago) unless we have complete cloud coverage. I’m a lucky girl!
I downloaded the bookmark and laminated 3 of them to give to my retired teacher friends tomorrow when we meet for brunch. They are all readers and “life-long learners”, so I know they will love my little gift (thanks to you). They will have the “moon information” at their fingertips! This will also be a great way to introduce them to you and your blog. My husband and I have been admiring the recent beautiful moon in Iowa. It has been something special…even our grown son called to tell us to be sure and look outside…guess I’d better make him a bookmark, too…and while I’m add it, the grandchildren could have one, as well. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for taking us with you while chasing the beautiful moon! Logging on to your site/blog is like talking to an dear friend. Always interesting adventures to share and sooth the soul! Thank you for all the warmth and love you share with everyone! 🙂
My pleasure Naomi!
Oh, Susan! I am “moonstruck” after reading this post♥ I was just checking in while my breakfast oatmeal is cooking, and now I sit totally absorbed in your photos and music and memories of those moon rises when I lived on the ocean outside Boston. I’ve seen those, too, and there is nothing to compare. ♥♥♥ especially with the one you love 🙂 They touch a place in your heart and soul that you didn’t even know existed. thank you for sharing such an awe~some moment. I’ll be “seeing” this post all day while I work – is that a daydream or a moondream ??? hugs to you, my friend!
Love the pictures. Wish I was in Maine rightnow snuggled up with my sister and planning one of our trips to the Cape! Have a glorious day!
Hello Susan! What a great post! I, too, love the moon. My daughter and I caught some amazing views of the moon. I will have to laminate the bookmark I made for her and I! Thank you so much for the tour of the Island! I think I would like it there. Have an awesome day! ~ Colleen
You too Colleen!
Ever since I saw the movie “Moonstruck” for the first time, I always say hello to Mr. Moon with a “Bella Luna”. It’s nice to see you do that too.