Good thing we aren’t in the north! I just love that they say “sharp showers!” The first thing you see when you get up in the morning, if you turn on the TV is the time — which was 5:01 this morning (sleeping in) and then, LG (a brand name I guess), then the words “Life is Good” come up. What a nice thing to wake up to!!
Yesterday we took our first walk. Headed between those buildings (about a block from our apartment) toward the church you can see in the back. Behind every small town in England are fields and fields, private farms that allow public walkways and there are a jillion winding grassy (muddy) paths, through gates and over fences, criss-crossing this country that have been used forever and ever.
Through the churchyard we went . . .
Can you imagine building this in 1180? They did! Read Pillars of the Earth (Ken Follet) if you’d like to hear about it! Fascinating fun book!
Past the Vicarage we went …. although I have never met a Vicar (in person) and it was tempting to go up this driveway. If you’d like to “meet” a Vicar (the only way I have), read any Barbara Pym book, which you would like Vicar or no Vicar.
But we kept going, hitting the outskirts of town, walking past the train station. Bluebells are everywhere, they are almost a weed here, isn’t that just the luckiest thing?
And so here we go . . . just a little bit green . . . due to all the sharp showers they’ve had around here. There were tons of wildflowers . . . the air is perfumed with deep grass smell, Queen Anne’s Lace (called Cow Parsley here), bluebells, buttercups, and daisies.
Joe going through a “Kissing Gate” . . . the fences and gates keep the lambs and cows inside, allows the people go through . . . kissing is supposed to take place over the fence! My BFF Rachel is here, she stayed the night with us, she is British and she says it is so. So it must be so. “Any excuse to snatch a kiss,” she says.
Over the river and through the woods, there are rushing little streams everywhere, and little old bridges that span them . . . It’s amazing all this nice infrastructure for walking enjoyment!
Across the fields, I spotted my new favorite house in England (there will very likely be at least one of these a day!). What must it be like to wake up to the birds every day in this house? The Wood Pigeons that peep “My-toe-hurts-Betty.” (Say this singingish, in a high Queen-Elizabeth-voice with a little slurring, for perfect pigeon noise.)
Up and over hills, it was so beautiful out there . . . and this is what we will be doing, day after day, the entire time we are here.
Time to go back to town, back through the old graveyard we go . . .
Because it was time to go meet our dear friend Rachel at the White Lion Pub for Sunday Roast — they have a special Sunday dinner in English pubs, roast beef or roast Pork, or roast chicken with Yorkshire Pudding, Mashed Potatoes and all the trimmings.
It was the perfect day, our long walk through history, a lovely late lunch, and as shadows get longer, we’re heading “home” for a long evening of talking, knitting, and getting a refresher course from Rachel on what things mean, how things work, why this and why that. She is our invaluable friend and brilliant interpreter of all things English. Today we’re off to gardens, along the narrow dodgy roads; is everyone ready? Fresh batteries in the camera? Bring your raincoat, those sharp showers may sneak up on us! Here we go! XOXO
Oh Susan I’ve been waiting for an update. It’s so kind of you to take time in your holidays to do that. I’m having a little chuckle with you as you find English sayings and traditions unusual. You are making me laugh with your delightful saying too. Hope you enjoyed your Sunday Dinner.
I’m up in the North and at the moment it’s sunny, very windy but no showers yet. I can say they have been very sharp showers though. You will bring up the sunshine that came from America with you. When are you up to HillTop? This is the bit I’m most excited about and can’t wait for your comments. Enjoy each moment if your vacation and savour the essence of it all. 🙂
Oh we are savouring! Hilltop will be in June!
No sunshine here on the east coast of America I’m sorry to say. After a lovely Mother’s Day here yesterday, we have rain today, so don’t forget your brolly, just in case it finds it’s way to you!
Hello from sunny Manchester, England. So glad you are settling in and enjoying your holiday. I just wanted to let you know that I’m a vicar – so you have sort of met one! x
LOL, that’s wonderful Jane!
I caught a show on PBS about a female vicar .. it was hilarious and not on long enough!!! She was a single woman dealing with all the usual “interesting” characters in her parish! I can’t remember the name but would love to see it resurface again! .. Yes, do enjoy your holiday fully! We are so grateful to tag along!! I forgot to pack my wellies so will have buy some authentic ones I think!!! 🙂
The name of that series was The Vicar of Dibley! Your library might be able to get it for you or for sure Netflix. We loved the show–it was one of the funniest ones we’ve ever seen. My sides would ache from laughing when it was over!!! 🙂
How nice to have your friend there. I love the architecture of ALL the buildings and that gate thing is “sweet”. Isn’t it wonderful they have all these walking paths. The graveyard was I place I would love to wonder around. What were the years on some of them? Thanks for the pictures and update:)
Many of the headstones were so old, the wind and weather had worn the engraving right off them!!!
That was what I was wondering,too. I was hoping you might take some rubbings, but it appears Mother Nature (or Father Time) beat you to it. Oh well….nothing is forever.
oh btw…love the sharp showers!!
lovely …lovely…lovely…thnx…xoxo
Just wanted to let you know, I’m loving “our” trip! I have my raincoat and ready for today’s adventures! Let’s go! FOSB 4~Ever! ~ Doreen ~
What a delight!!!
Sharp showers…old cathedrals..old cemetaries..fields and fields of wildflowers…old shops….I woke up but I feel like I’m still in a dream!!!!!… I’m anxious to see Thumbelina’s toy shop too !! Both you and Joe look great !!! We’re having a wonder full time !!!..oh…and the train station!!! doesn’t it take you to a castle ???!!!
Oh Susan…..a Laura Ashley store????? Could we please go there??? Xoxoxo
Yes, we will!
Does it look like the Laura Ashley stores did in the U.S. ? Do they have clothes or just products for the home?
Thanks,
Susan
Both — pretty but not the same fabrics as in the old days, nor as many clothes, but still really nice.
Oooh lala…I swoon!
Good Morning Susan!
The beauty is beyond words or comments . Every picture could be a painting! I am at a loss for words and it is breathtaking. Pictures are so beautiful…….The only thing better would be being there in body rather than spirit but loving every breath of this journey and each day’s gift ……..have you lost some weight? Looking like you have….
Maybe all the walking will help me lose some too. Have a beautiful day and enjoy the many blessins!
Yes, we tried and did each lose 15 lbs before we left, although I think perhaps we gained them all back today at lunch!
I thought so – first saw it in Joe’s pic with his tux….you both look terrific ……
I thought the same thing. You look good, girl! Cute picture. You look young and healthy.
One out of two isn’t bad! 🙂
Oh brings back memories when I was there , Soo lush and green and the pubs with their Sunday roasts yorkshire pudding havent had that for years . My mum would have Sunday roasts every Sunday of beef, pork or lamb with roast potato’s , yorkshire pudding and veggies with gravy she would make her own yorkshire pudding YUMMY I miss all that ! I to are having a giggle for you to hear all their frazes and sayings I grew up with it all . Yes England is known for their rain thats for sure not the place to be if you ache from the damp and cold !Thanks for taking us with you . Have a lovely day !
Here I come, walking with you!
Bluebells, ancient churches, kissing gates–all so lovely and romantic! Thanks for bringing England to us! I’m having a splendid time. Please pass the Earl Grey . xoxo ♥
Wish I could find just the right to words to express how much I’m enjoying this journey. Thank you, thank you! Such a sweet picture of you on the little bridge–you bring to mind a young Paul McCartney–and he was always the cutest Beatle!
I have always looked like Paul! Funny!
You could do worse!! I didn’t think of the resemblance, but now I see it! Too funny! Maybe you’re twins, separated at birth? Oh no, he’s much older!
oh yes, Much!
Beautiful scenery, and even though you don’t like to have your picture taken, you look quite happy to be crossing that little footbridge. These are the sorts of places that I remember with the most fondness from my trips to the UK … when my friends Julie and Anne would take me out to the countryside to enjoy the old churches and small villages with the great pubs! Thank you for sharing your joyful journeyings. 😀
xoxo, Priscilla
Oh my…what an amazing time we are in for! I love..love…love walking through fields..checking out old churches and graveyards ….the wildflowers are Amazing…bluebells…how can they be wild?? I would think everyone would want them in their gardens…smile.. Kissing gate..oh what fun..did you take advantage of it? smile…. So glad Racheal is there…just know you guys are in for a wonderful visit!
Blessings…
Hi Gert! I ” W a V e D ” to you as we drove through Iowa ……to and from
Colorado… Moved our oldest daughter back to Minnesota ! Hope you
have a beautiful day and maybe we can sit next to each other at the
next tea-time or we could be walking partners on the next walk ?! 🙂
Susan, are you going to put all these posts and photos into a book? It’s so exciting to read of all your adventures in England. Your photos and descriptions are better than any guidebook I’ve ever read. I think all these posts and photos should be made into a book – what a beautiful one it would be! Happy travelling!
I’m writing a diary as we go along, with drawings and photos too!
Thank you thank you for this lovely daily journey with you! I just got back from MV to open up our house and thought you are not even here! Surprised that Bunch of Grapes is moving across the street! I got my last visit to my favorite book store, just in the nick of time. Loved the walk today and I loved “Pillars of the Earth”.
Enjoy every moment, xoRobin❤
I think it will be wonderful in the old Bowl and Board building; she’s putting in a coffee shop, there are supposed to be tables and chairs in a sidewalk cafe out front!
I am so enjoying your blog… I will most likely never visit this wonderful place, it’s so nice to be able to do so through your eyes… thank you.
Good Morning!! Could you have chosen a more perfect place to stay? It is so charming and lovely! And lunch in the pub sounds perfect!! Hoping there are no sharp showers today! Have fun at the first garden of your trip! xoxo Debbie
The hills are alive, so beautiful! The buildings (how did they do that in 1180?), the cemetery, the bluebells, the walk, you & Joe & Rachel, & happiness, all in this blog! What a wonderful treat! I’m trying to find the perfect words, maybe they’re just – thank you! xoxoxo
“Life is good” Wow if our TV said that I might even let Jim turn the blasted thing on. I am loving, loving this trip! The countryside is EXACTLY as I expected, maybe more. I prepared for this trip by watching “Miss Potter” with Rene Zellweger. Oh my, what a delightful movie, if anyone out there has missed it. It just primed the pump so to speak. I am ready to hike anywhere you want to take us. Love those old graveyards. Can’t wait to see the shops.
Thanks Susan for such a nice start to my work day!
I just watched Miss Potter yesterday too… in readiness for this journey.
We were so fortunate to stay in the house in The Lakes District that they remade to look like Hilltop for that movie when we went to England in 2010! It’s called Yew Tree Farm and was once owned by Beatrix Potter and has some of her original furnishings in it. LOVE IT!!!!! It’s such a wonderful movie, too!
How lovely! I love the overgrown path and the beautiful church and graves. What a wonderful time we all are having!! Thanks so much for sharing with your armchair companions! I look forward to your posts always but even more so while we are on our trip!! I keep expecting a cow to wander through with flannel clothng on it from Cranford. lol Have a wonderful time and may those sharp showers stay north for a few more days! ♥
Wow! You gave me a perfect start to my Monday. Thanks!
good morning susan…what a lovely place you are in…..the photos are wonderful..it looks like you all are settled in rather well….enjoy everything!!!!
love. cindy
A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E. All of it! Everything! You are doing this so right. We are having no sharp showers here in Texas and it is not as lush with green as in Tenterden. Explore and share. We are so fortunate! Have a lovely day.
Beautiful walk-
the only thing missing, are your “walking sticks”.
Brings to mind, one of my favorite books,
“The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady”-
am sure your diary will be filled and overflowing
with lovely sketches, watercolors and words.
The world could use a few more of those “Kissing Gates” !
Dear Sue Sue
My, what a lovely walk. I could smell ‘the green’! How wonderful to have your dear friend Rachel there! It makes the trip even cozier to have your own personal ‘interpreter’! I hope we can avoid those sharp showers in our walks.
You look like you are ‘in heaven’ on top of that hill! TTFN!
what a lovely experience!
Sharp showers sound a little painful 🙂 And please tell me what Yorkshire
pudding tastes like…it must not be a dessert? So wonderful that you have
a friend to share and explain things and enjoy your wonder of the day.
It’s not a dessert, but more a kind of crunchy biscuit . . . very traditional to have with roast beef; Google it, it’s easy to make!
Georgeann I use Susan’s “popovers” recipie for Yorkshire puds and they make the best puds ever! xx
They’re good, I so agree with you Nina!!
Yorkshire pudding is very similar to Popovers, as I understand it, but made using the drippings of the roast. I learned this while searching popover recipes recently. Google it! — that’s my motto!
if you have ever made Popovers…that’s how you make Yorkshire puddings. they make them larger like a pancake size, but you serve them with roast beef and gravy. Back from the days when meat was too expensive and to fill up the tummies they would serve a large Pudding on the plate, spoon gravy over it, and very little roast beef.
Sharp Showers Up North! We have our suitcases out since we leave very soon to see my father in law…up north….! I never pack umbrellas because he has an umbrella stand full of 40 years worth of umbrellas! 🙂 It looks very very beautiful where you are now. One of my favorite things about England are the fields and fields of sheep everywhere. So pretty. I’m not going to ask- I’m just going to keep hoping that you serendipitously happen to be heading to Hill Top the day in June that my best friend and I and our families are going! 🙂 xx
ps- beautiful weekend in Cape Cod- sunny and warm and lovely in every way.
pps- love your haircut. You look great!
ppps- love seeing pics of you and Joe…they are a rare treat! And Rachel too…I’m following her on twitter now and peeking at her blog and she is so lovely.
pppps- I gave Alice and Mary journals for Cape Cod this weekend- they both spent a lot of time writing, drawing, and sticking bits into them. I thought of you and smiled while watching them do it.
thought of yet another ps: Life is Good on the tv set- it’s all I kept thinking all weekend! It’s a great phrase to repeat over and over to yourself…! Mary and I even bought matching Life Is Good tshirts in Chatham yesterday…(I had to promise not to wear mine on the same day she wears hers though! *smile*)
I have a couple of t-shirts that say that–love wearing them because of the smiles it brings to people’s faces… 🙂
And to add to your comment, Patricia, about the fields of sheep would be the gorgeous stacked stone walls that surround the fields! I took picture after picture of sheep when we were there. They thought I was crazy but I was in search of the perfect pastoral sheep picture!
In the spring there are lots of lambs and they jump and play like you dream about! So adorable!
Oh, sweet!!!!! We were there in the Fall. Didn’t really see any lambs. Would have loved that!!!
Good morning Susan,
What a lovely day indeed, the countryside looks so green and lush this time of year. So much history and incredible architecture to explore! Just think of all the exercise you and Joe will get and of course work up a nice appetite for those hearty dinners. Thankyou for the pictures and taking us along. East Longmeadow, Ma.
THanks for the updates. I live with several chronic illnesses. A trip like this is something my husband and I dream of but I will (probably ) not be able to manage.
So I live through you….because I too always wonder what is down that shady lane or over that hill but can only go in spirit!
Am enjoying this trip SO much! And thank your darling Joe! What a guy to let you include us on your trip!!! He’s really something special – I can tell!!!
How wonderful! Seeing bluebells, smelling the freshness, sensing the history, tasting Yorkshire pudding, and sharing it with a friend. Couldn’t sleep a wink last night just dreaming about our journey today. My pink hooded rain slicker is over my shoulder and I’m all ready to go, camera and all. I’ve even packed plenty heart shaped orange and chocolate chip tea biscuits for this afternoon to snack on while we rest our toes and chatter about all the lovely sights we’ve seen. Lead on Susan, Joe and Rachael! Should the raindrops fall we will have fun splashing in the puddles, laughing as we go. 🙂
Georgie from NJ
Oh Georgie!
Hi! I’m grabbing my raincoat and falling in line with you! I love splashing in puddles too!…never outgrown that!…and your beautiful heart shaped orange and chocolate chip tea biscuits sound so delicious! Do you have the recipe, or do they come in one of those wonderful tins? What a joy following Susan, Joe, Rachael and Girlfriends down the path! Just never know what we’ll find! Oh! the fun we’re having and we are just begun! I can just picture a whole stream of all of us trailing through the green English countryside…..:)
Blessings,
Victoria
Yes, and today, our shoes are muddy!
Oh What a lovely day……… I have this song in my head and it starts like that but I can’t remember the rest of the words just the tune. I think it is from Mickey and the Beanstalk, Walt Disney. That was such a wonderful way to spent the day, everyday would be perfect spending that way ! What a treat, Thank-you, you sweet , darling, couple ! This is just magical, marvelous, wonderful, that we have you !!!!!!! OOXX to you both and all your wonderful friends along the way. 🙂
” I have a wonderful feeling , everything’s going my way”
I think that one is from OKLAHOMA! youtube.com/watch?v=_C6J9gij5SQ
Then again, you might be thinking of “What a happy day!” from Mickey and the Beanstalk :youtube.com/watch?v=I-SiUtKYrSc
I like both! ❤
I’m right there with you..So lovely. Sharp showers… the english do have a way with words. Thanks for the tour.
Love the pix of the countryside. Having lived and traveled in Europe in the 1970s I don’t think that there is a prettier green than in Europe! Just something different about it than in the U.S. Truly emerald I think! Your artist’s eye probably sees even more colors than mine!
So happy that the bluebells are still blooming for you!!
I totally agree with Kerry’s comment about the lovely shade of green…after my first trip to Great Britain, I came home and told everyone it was like seeing the color green for the very first time! Unimaginable, the green…
Loving your posts and pix.
Sharp showers? I love that!! It never occured to me that there were sharp showers anywere in the world. A big “thank you” to Rachel for interpreting for us all things English. The old grave yards just seem to beckon you in to take a peek at the names on the tombstones. Happy rest of the day and tally ho!
But, why are they called “sharp” showers??? 🙂
I found out it’s because they are showers that become hard at times — not gentle showers, but sharp showers! Thank you Rachel for the interpretation!
we often use the phrase, a “hard rain” here in the midwest… Now, I can have another pretty way of saying it!
We’re definitely having sharp showers here in CT today. Hope they don’t knock all the blossoms off the begonias I just planted. :0[
Sighhhhh!
Oh Susan, how sweet that you love us enough to share this beautiful trip with us girlfriends. I wanted to share with you that I just got my first English Country Living “by post”. I just love it. So different from the one we get here. I love how they described the gardens and the photography and oh the sweet crafts! By becoming your “girlfriend” you have opened a brand new world to me. Thank you so much. I hope you and your sweetheart make one memory after another, enough to last a lifetime. xox Joy
Good for you Joy, it is by far my favorite magazine, so full of good things, with emphasis on keeping the planet in good shape!
So happy to wake up to sunshine and a Susan update this morning. When I checked yesterday and there was nothing new, I sighed and my dear husband asked what was wrong. I told him Susan Branch didn’t have anything new on her blog this morning. He said good for her, she needs to enjoy her vacation. But I said “you don’t understand. We are all on this vacation with her.” :o) I didn’t look at him as I said this because I didn’t want to see the eyes rolling – tee hee.
Now Susan, I know you brought 12 pieces of luggage with you, so where are your Wellies? I think you need a shopping trip for proper slogging through the mud footwear before you do another thing. Thank you for starting my day with a Beatles tune, and for the tip on reading Barbara Pym. Enjoy your day – ta ta!
So far I haven’t needed my Wellies, but I did bring along a reasonable facsimile!
O’ thanks so much for sharing~ between your words and pictures I feel like I’m right there myself. Your trip looks like the dream of all dreams.
I must say Susan, you are right about your haircut, it’s darling, quite a nice cut!
BTW … does Kellee by any chance make the darling felted kitties to sell? I need one : )
So far she doesn’t, but you never know!
Your trip is amazing thus far! We have been on numerous cruises, but that trans Atlantic cruise may have been a little too much for me, so many days with no land in sight! England looks to wonderful. If I could I would do it just as you are, away from the sight seeing sights and out amongst the locals, so lovely!
Hi Susan, I’ve been waiting to see more pics and here they are this morning! Love the old church and cemetery. Wonder how old some of those headstones are; could you still read any of them? The pasture lands and wild flowers are beautiful. Hope it doesn’t “sharp showers” where you are today. Have a wonderful day!
I am ready! Days and days full of nothing but days and days!
Me again…Hello & Hugzzzzzzzzz to Rachel….You & Joe must Be so Happy to Have Her with You… 🙂 I Love The Pic with Rachel & Joe in The Pub…I am Hungry again what a Yummy Menu at The Pub…The Views are Breath~Taking Sweet Sue…Church Yards & Grave Yards & Wood~Pigeons that Tweet “my toe hurts betty” so Funny…I Love The Pic of You on that tiny Bridge You Look so Happy Like You are “Home”….well I know You & Joe & Rachel will have a Marvelous Day….My Rain~Coat is On My Wellies too…I am all set for Those Sharp Showers Sweet Sue 🙂 Splash! Twirl! doin’ The British Happy Dance! Love & “Fairylicious~Kisses”…Muahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! until we meet again….Yay! xoxo Poof! P.S. I Can Smell The Bluebells from Here Sweet Sue…”Life is Good” 🙂
How wonderful to have Rachel there by your side! I am so enjoying the journey and the pictures and can just imagine the smells of your surroundings … and thank you for the reminder of fresh batteries….like you when I travel I take pictures of everything…I especially like to take pictures of the every day things because I want to remember the ways of day in day out living that is not similar to ours. And, my husband rolls his eyes when I take a picture of the tea or coffee served before I take my first sip!! But the presentation in the little cafes is so wonderful in Europe! Enjoy! Still cloudy here so it is easy to imagine your walks today. Love from Louisville!
Thrilling to wake up here in SLO county, Morro Bay, and see your photos of England! Feel like I am there walking with you. About to take a trip myself to tour history in Virginia and No. Carolina and Penn. You have inspired me to keep a travel journal each day. Trip to Europe was wonderful but as time passes so does my memory and too many detail are forgotten. This time will be written down and described so I can re live the adventures. Can hardly wait for your next photos and story of what your day was like!!
Look how big those cups are!
I have my umbrella ( what do they call it in England) ready for my garden tour…though I hope we won’t have to use it!! My sweet Mom ( she will be 90 in September ) is LOVING your journal. We discuss it each day. BTW….we are both avid Downton Abby fans. Will you and Joe be near the castle and if so please take us along!!!! XXX
I think they call it a Brolly!
I needed a bit of a pick-me-up this morning, and there you were, transporting me to merry olde, and even providing the perfect music to begin a new day.
Thanks for allowing us all to tag along, and for the smiles.
Just wonderful, beautiful scenery Susan. Almost no words to describe the beauty of what you have shown us so far. I have never been to England but it is going on the top of my bucket list. The landscape looks right out of Beatrix Potter’s paintings. I can’t wait for your visit to Hilltop, and I know you’re excited, too! I am enjoying your vacation so much, it’s a joy everyday to see what you have to show us. Thank you for doing this Susan, and know we love you for it! Sharon in Maine xxoo
In looking up the recipe for classic Yorkshire Pudding it appears to be something of a biscuit and not “puddingish” at all — seems to have intricate cooking procedures as compared to our soul food biscuits — and both are great covered in gravy –but so is a scorpion , if it’s good gravy….
Nice walk in the country side , was surprised not to see any farm animals in the fields ,
Though they have the gates to keep them in..
Was that your new favorite house because of location ?
Yes, the location, wasn’t it pretty? Must be so quiet, and yet, not too far from town. And there were cows out there, but looked like specks in the photos so I didn’t show them. Deep fried scorpion could be good because I’m sure the knees and elbows would be very crunchy (like soft shell crabs) and you’re right, good gravy (grandma’s gravy) makes everything taste good. The last thing, ALL desserts in England are called pudding. Instead of saying, “Would you like dessert?” — the wait staff asks, “Do you care for a pudding?” Cute, huh?
And just to had to all the English girlfriends here, Biscuits in America are like our scones a little but our biscuits are like their cookies! Fun eh! lol xx
Yes we are totally confused! Love “English” language!
Am I right in that yorkshire pudding is kind of like a popover but instead of the batter being baked in a popover pan, making individual popovers, the batter is poured into a flat baking pan with a little bit of meat drippings in the bottom?
You got it Pat! xx
: )
Hi Susan,
You look so beautiful, relaxed, and happy walking over that little bridge. I look forward to all of the news each day of your trip through the countryside. I can relate to the Yorkshire pudding because in all the years I ate roast beef at my in -laws, Mom always made Yorkshire pudding from the fat to go along with the roast.
Enjoy your day!
Lynn Cooper
i read “pillars of the earth” and its follow up “world without end” both stunning, engaging novels and it’s nice to see an actual 1180 example. thanks!
Indeed Life “IS” Good….we get to see the world through the Eyes, the Heart,
and the Soul of Susan Branch!!! And by golly you are charming the socks off of
me! It’s all so perfectly perfect! I Worry though…at the thought of itty-bitty
You out in all those rolling green hills with “sharp” anything falling on you!!!
So Happy at the thought of you with your Dearest Friend Rachel !!!!
Laughing…Learning…Singing….and Smiling…because of You!!!
“thankyou!thankyou!thankyou!” : .} XoXDawn
(My married last name is English…Starkweather. And it’s told, that the sailors willing to work in stark (stormy) weather became Starkweather and the other
sailors became Fairweather. …..and no relation to Charlie!)
Dawn! What a nice tidbit of information! Startweather vs. Fairweather. I believe I would much prefer the Fairweather 😉
Me too Georgie, me too! Ummmmm…. just wondering…..ummm
if nobody else wants that last heart shaped orange chocolate
chip tea bisciut you brought… wanna share? And still trying to figure out Who is So Good at the Wood Pigeons Peep (besides Joe&Sue) “My-toe-hurts-Betty”…….Uffdah ! I am getting a little discouraged because I’m just not getting it right! Do you think it has something to do with my accent? Still think Joe does it best cuz the pigeons come by everytime he does it!!! He’s just so Lucky!!! 🙂
I Should clarify….I prefer “Fair” weather
But….I love my Starkweather !!!
Hello Dawn, how are you coming along with eliminating your “charlie horses” we need to get them under control before we head back to the U.S.A.!!!! You say Uffdah…I have a dear friend from MN who is now living in Houston, TX who always uses that word in place of my UGH….so, I’m assuming it means the same thing?? Stay on that orange juice girlfriend!!!!
Love, love, love the paths…and it is so, so green. Living in California we rarely see such a sight so thank you for taking us with you. Also love the “Life is Good” each morning. There is a t-shirt company at http://www.lifeisgood.com that is a favorite. They are very philanthropic and eco-correct; their slogan is “spread the power of optimism”. The shirts have cute sayings and they are sooooo soft. Based in New England area. Loving this trip with you!
Good to hear from you Susan, we thought you’d gotten lost! A whole day with no word was unbearable! The photos saved me out of my Susan withdrawal funk! And Rachel is adorable!
Thanks for the book suggestions! I’m always looking for good reads from someone who understands what I like and you like what I like so these must be what I like! How twisted up is that?
Carry on!
Diane
This is soooo fun – thank you so much for taking us all along!
XXOO
O Susan this is sooo much fun! How lovely that you and your friend Rachel are able to enjoy time together! It soooo makes me miss my BFF accross the pond in Connecticut. Hopefully I will get to see her soon and like Rachel she always wears her “tour guide! cap when we go visit her there! lol xxxx
Thank you so much for sharing your trip. I am loving every post.
What a lovely picture of you on the little bridge, you look so happy and having the time your life….Beautiful.. thank you for sharing
How absolutely georgeous are all the pictures you are sending us! My husband and I have sweet memories of a similar trip a few years ago, and it was a bit on the chilly side then, too. Thanks SO much for keeping us updated! Can’t wait to see the next lovely photos and hear of your exciting adventures! Happy day to you!
Thank you for the tour! What an enchanted place it is. Hope you snuck a few kisses in at that gate! My husband and I were married by a vicar. Somehow that sounds much more romantic than a reverend or pastor.
Dear Susan and Joe,
What a lovely travelogue so far! Heaven! Don’t you just love the spring air in Britain? There is nothing like it…soft and lush at the same time. Have a fabulous walkabout today!
Reading your comments about the walking paths, I can’t help but think how well the British build exercise into their daily routine. No wonder the obesity rate in America is so high. Which would you rather–go hike across the beautiful countryside smelling the fresh air, wildflowers, observing nature–or go walk laps in a shopping mall??!!! No contest there for me!!! Here, to enjoy that kind of exercise, one has to go to a state park! Too bad…Your Sunday dinner sounded scrumptious and you are walking off calories daily so you can enjoy!!! Looking forward to the garden visit today! 🙂
Thank you ever so much for taking us along on this trip. I have wanted to go to England for so long I don’t remember when the dream began. I have read and reread the two post I think I could recite them from memory. Waiting anxiously for the next bit of Jolly Ole’ England.
How lovely! Loved the buildings you walked passed, loved the little bridge, loved all the green! I really feel like I’m there! Thank You! I anxiously await a new posting from you each day! Will you be purchasing souvenirs? Have fun today!
To say I am enjoying this is a vast understatement. Thank you, thank you, thank you. (Eloises’ Nanny always says anything important three times!)
Oh, what FUN Susan! You’re going to lose a lot of weight walking all over the place. This is FUN for all of us, as well. You’re a gem to fill us in on your trip. Don’t know where you find time to do all that you do. “ta, ta, & all that.” Sondra
Oh, you are living my dream, and I am so enjoying living vicariously through your photos and narrative. I don’t think I’d be able to leave the cemeteries – what history!
So lovely and so much fun to be on a guided tour from my breakfast table! Don’t let it go by to fast let us savor every moment!
So happy to realize we’re only on our third day here, but I know it will go fast!
Dearest Sue,
Your photos & stories take our breath away; here’s a poem to take yours:
When Spring comes back to England
And crowns her brows with May,
Round the merry moonlit world
She goes the greenwood way:
She throws a rose to Italy,
A fleur-de-lys to France;
But round her regal morris-ring
The seas of England dance.
~Alred Noyes~
Hugs & kisses from Sunny Ohio! XO
Bunny (Hawkeye1797)
Love it Bunny, thank you!
Bunny!!! I love this poem! Thank you for posting it 🙂
What a lovely day you’ve had, so enjoyed the photos, and how great to have your friend there to help you with the customs of the country. My father was from England and we always had Sunday Roast, with Yorkshire Pudding, mashed potatoes and turnips! He loved them. Hope you have another wonderful day today. It looks so tranquil and serene out in the fields.
I follow 2 English bloggers and always enjoy when they post pictures of the English countryside. Everything is so lush and green. Apparently everything thrives in the rich soil and temperate climate of the UK! 🙂 I really like that we are going walking every day. I’m looking forward to it.
When traveling, I always enjoy seeing how people live, where they shop for food and clothes, the schools they attend etc. I can’t wait to see more pictures of the lovely village and the surrounding countryside!
The local Chamber of Commerce should hire you and Joe. You are doing a fantastic job. 🙂
Marilyn (in Dallas)
Marilyn (in Dallas)
Our “sharp showers” came overnight, and this morning the rain gauge measures FOUR INCHES! Lots of green here as well, but not a day to be outdoors, that’s certain.
The “Sunday Roast” certainly sounds delicious! I can just taste it now.
I love the buildings and the countryside. Thank you so much for taking us along!
xoxo Nellie
You and Joe look SO relaxed and happy! I love the pictures of you both! The graveyard is charming (as graveyards go) and I am so use to the vicar from reading the M.C. Beaton series about Agatha Raisin in the Cotswolds, I feel like it’s my backyard! Thank you again for such great shots, keep ’em comin’!!
Susan — I’m so enjoying the photos of the English countryside. I’ve always wanted to go to England and this is a bit of “armchair” travel for me…thanks to you and Joe. I live in rural northwestern N.J. and I enjoy walking my lab on the local rail trail which takes me by fields of cattle grazing, wild flowers, birds singing, through forests, etc… the picture of Joe on the meandering path reminds me of my own walk — but yours is in ENGLAND!! I’m so happy for you — love your haircut (cute) … eat some scones with clotted cream and drink lots of tea. Every book set in England I’ve ever read talks about “the moors”…will you be walking the moors? — maybe your friend can help clarify just what they are!
No special plans for moor walking, but if we run into one, we’ll be sure to take a picture of it!
An enchanting day . . . just as it should be. I feel the need to talk a walk and search for some magic in my own neighborhood.
It is there, no doubt about it!
Love the green of England– aren’t old cemeteries interesting? Do they serve plum pudding in the pubs? My father would talk about how good it was, but it wasn’t made with plums. Today I will be dreaming about walking the paths that you took. Thank you for sharing! I just received the movie “Miss Potter” for a Mother’s Day gift from my daughter. I can’t wait to watch it.
We had plum crumble for dessert in the pub for lunch yesterday! Whole plum halves!
Good Morning Susan, I just wanted to say ” I’m Here” in a imaginary roll call of girlfriends. Your daily adventures are awe inspiring and they encourage me to look for the beauty that surrounds me. Stay amazed!
How charming…….love it all 🙂
Interesting to see Rachael….she is quite attractive and for the most part , looks just like one of us .I notice she also has a short hair cut , that is the order of the day in rain country , especially when it’s
Sharp rain …..where are you headed next ? Better walk ,driving can be bad for your health !
Can they make good gravy ? So what do you ask for if you really want pudding ?
Pudding!
And you get a biscuit!
You two are just so cute! Really enjoying your conversations. Every time I connected with my dad, I was rolling on the floor with laughter – he was a character. I don’t have him now, but I’m able to live that again through both of you. I’m smiling now, makes me feel all warm and cozy inside. (Plus Susan is taking us to Laura Ashley! Yeh!)
Susan, this is so much fun! Love the pictures, love your new haircut, the walk is awesome! wow! a british name for Queen Anne’s Lace, Cow Parsley, I think I like our name better! Love the bluebells! Dinner sounds wonderful.
Enjoy!
J
xoxoxo
Are you familiar with Cath Kidston? Does she have any stores near you. Her stuff brings ya right back to the fifties. Very nostalgic. Have fun!!
I agree Karen! Just gotto love Cath Kidston xx
AHHHH! Life is good! Thank you Susan!
Hello Susan,
I so enjoyed this new post. I am smitten with all these new terms of sharp showers, brolly, wellies, cow parsley, kissing gate. I am so enthralled by all your teaching us, along with the help of your best friend Rachel, whom we had learned a tad about in your other posts you had shared with us before leaving for England. Its so nice to be able to see Rachel via photo after you have talked very highly of her to all of us. I too enjoyed all the beautiful architecture and very nice picture of you crossing the bridge…..you just seem so relaxed.
I do have a question: The picture you took of your newest favorite home, is this all part of one farm? I should say do you know approximately home many acres the average farmer has? Are you able to take “snipits” of any flowers you come across, is this allowed? You know me……am a flower lover of all kinds, so while all you ladies are well walking ahead of me, I would be taking pictures of every flower and studying each one! Oh just so happy with this trip we are on! Until the next post………Hugs & Smiles …….Barb, Ludlow MA
We do it too, put flowers in my diary to dry. Love it here!!!!!!
Oh I meant to say (how) many acres not (home). Sorry for the typo!
Oh, you look sooo happy!!! And we’re happy for you. Could almost taste the roast beef and Yorkshire pudding. We learned to make York. Pud. in Home Ec. class in my junior year in highschool, waaaaay back in 1972. Do they still have Home Economics these days? But my mom made it, too and hers was the best! Takes me back to many happy Sundays around the dinner table. Can’t wait to see the English country gardens, have my London Fog ready to slip on. Let’s be on our way….. 🙂
-Marianne-
So glad you are enjoying yourselves. It is lovely to hear your impression of England when we just take all this for granted. Makes me realise how lucky we are 🙂
Oh My Oh My it’s so beautiful! Thank you for taking us with you! I can’t wait to see the watercolors this trip inspires…and maybe a book??? Have a wonderful time with your Joe!
Hi Susan, I am loving reading your days in the Cruise and now in the U.K. It is such a beautiful trip!! It is a lot of fun to read what you are doing there everyday. It is the travel I would like to do one day. Thanks a lot for sharing it with us. Lots of regards.
Oh, Susan!! How thrilling!!! I love every word and photo!! Every single detail is sooo interesting! Thank you sooooo much!! And the pic of you is darling!!!
Love the old buildings! And thank you for taking us along on your walks! I have been away for a couple of days staying with a couple of grands while my daughter was adding another grand to our family. A little boy 8.6 and 21 1/2 inchs long. So I will have to catch up on my trip with you across the sea. Having a lovely time so far!
Thank you!
Congratulations Brenda!!
Thank you! And thank you again for sharing your trip with us!
What a wonderful walk we had today and the dinner was fantastic also. The only problem is I am walking around in my high queenie voice saying “my toe hurts Betty” most of the day. LOL I would love to have the bluebells in my garden as they look absolutely beautiful.
I’m really enjoying your photos from the trip. I love the apartment and your views out the windows. Everything is so green and pretty! I can’t wait for your next installment…
So enjoying your journal! Would love to see some English Queen Anne’s Lace…my favorite wildflower! Blessings!
It’s everywhere here right now . . . and hawthorn is in bloom…perfumes the air with vanilla.
Susan,
Thank you, thank you, I am so enjoying this tour!!! I will be watching “Miss Potter” this week, in honor of your visit to the Lake District! 🙂 Can’t wait to see those photos!!
We love going on vacation with you and Joe! Thank you so much for sharing with us…my husband is the first one to your blog in the mornings now. Today he read in singsong loud enough so I could hear in the next room, the title of your blog. We in New Mexico are living vicariously through your charming photos and enjoyable writing and praying for some “sharp rains.”
marvelous travel log…..makes me feel as if I were right there! I hope you will recapture the trip when you return to the states and publish this (like the Willard booklet?). I think everyone would love to have this in published form, autographed, of course…what a great souvenir for us that travelled in your pocket!!! happy trails, dear Sue. can’t wait until the next post! xo
Will do it Peg, only more in book form!