Right now, we’re watching the Chelsea Flower Show on BBC — I LOVE this show! It’s only on for a week each year, while the show is taking place in London. It’s the perfect thing to watch when you’re on vacation! Musica? (Inspired by the last photo of this post.)
They tour display gardens at the show, in detail, they talk about different types of gardens, about fences, paths and topiary, about water features and how to attract animals and insects to your garden — and they take us to visit wonderful gardens in other parts of the country; they show what creative things you can do in small spaces↓
. . . no space is too small to squeeze in a wonderful garden here! And they show flowers that get you so excited, you have to run and get your pen and write down the name of them … angelica with the purple leaf for example, I just wrote it down, it looks wonderful for a contrast plant; and they just showed a tiny hosta called “cracker crumbs!” How can you not want something with that name! The person they are interviewing now loves the same kind of garden I love, the natural garden of the Kent countryside. Very hard to beat for plain and simple beauty.
How can you not fall in love with a country that adores gardens so much that they arrange events and TV shows around them? Or a country that has a four o’clock tea as a regular thing and stocks its outdoor tea rooms like this:
How can you not love it! All the doors and windows are open here in our flat tonight (see how English I’ve gotten? I used to call this place an apartment back in the old days); it’s a beautiful evening here, the sky is pink, the sun is just about to go down. Laughter drifts up to us from the outdoor cafe on the corner. We have the last load of laundry drying outside on the line. Joe is making lamb chops in the kitchen, gardens are on TV and I’m writing you!
We’re almost all packed … yes, boo hoo, it’s already time for us to move on! Two weeks gone in the blink of an eye! Boo hoo because I want time to slow down, but I’m not really crying since we are going to our friends Rachel and Paul’s house tomorrow morning (here they are, at our house on the island . . .)
aren’t they adorable? (They’re happy because they know they get to come back here!) . . . We’re all taking the train together to London tomorrow night! We’re staying in London for two days, in a lovely hotel that has ROOM SERVICE, we’re going to wander through Marylebone and Soho, doing whatever thing Ray and Paul want to, then we’ll all be training back in time for Sunday dinner with Ray’s mum and dad at their farm. We’ll visit with Ray and Paul a bit more, and then, slowly, we begin gravitating north, back to the beautiful countryside . . .
towards Beatrix Potter’s Hilltop Farm (!!!!!) (that’s it in the photo), stopping along the way to visit the Emma Bridgewater factory, to the amazing castle called Chatsworth, and lots of other smaller homes and gardens, many more walks in the country. Plenty to look forward to from here! But time, please, slow down!
Oh it’s a miracle alright! I’m sure you can all see it is! And even though I can’t possibly keep up with every second of our day in these posts, I’m having fun writing about it all in the diary which I can take with me no matter where we are! We took another walk through the woods today, our last in Tenterden before we go! But right now, I’m just writing to wave bye bye. Hopefully the computer will work where we next land . . . I will be checking in! Do not lose faith!
Later . . . now it’s this morning, just dawn; there’s the cooing of wood pigeons outside the open French doors here on the quiet High Street. Just me, pigeons, tea and you. I’ll leave you with one of my favorite photos so far; this is a bench just outside, below our French door 
windows. I love English people, they do know how to make a picnic anywhere. You see families, couples, and singletons, plopped down, way out on a lawn some where, everywhere you look. These two are living the good life; she has her candy bar; they each have something to read; they have a thermos between them; they’re dappled in spring sunshine; they’re in a place for good people-watching; it’s meandering at its best; the perfect way to slow down time! (Look at his little socks!) Despite everything written about love, to me, this is what it looks like! ♥ I have to add, I have also enjoyed moments like this, alone, with a sandwich and a good book, on a bench, in nowhere’sville, and that feels a little bit like love too.
The other thing, women wear skirts here, young and old, another thing I love. I bought a skirt yesterday, in honor of the cuteness of English people! Now I close my little window to the world, and pack up, and off we go …. Bye girlfriends, have a wonderful day! Those of you coming along, better get in the car! Suck in! XOXO
I’ve so enjoyed your visit to Kent, and am looking forward to the next instalment of your journey. I’ve promised to take hubby to Chatsworth stately home, he’s never been. If you pass by Warwick, there is a very impressive castle there, well worth a look. 🙂
Thanks for the information Pam!
Warwick Castle is beautiful! You have to stop there!!
*Loved* our visit to Warwick Castle!! 🙂
It’s 11:15 PM PST- usually not up this late, but checked in…WaLa…more from Susan! I’ve heard about Chelsea Flower show forever and ever…dream to go. However, your lovely pix have shown us the beauty of the English blooms. LOVED the pix of English couple – so cute – so perfect. It’s been a wonderful journey so far. Thank you. I’m “sucked” in…ready to continue…OUCH!
:-)!
* Well then…off you go…Susan and Joe * May 24, 2012
I love the views of Tenterden as we all say…goodbye French Door windows, goodbye High Street with all its charm, goodbye tall spired churches, goodbye lovely tearooms, goodbye countrysides that go on forever, and goodbye garden paths that took you and us to wonderful places that we have never seen before.
But, with this goodbye, we happily say, “Hello Londontown”!
See you on the train.
Luv from, * Dorothy Ann on Cougar Mountain, Washington *
Good attitude Dorothy Ann! 🙂
Sucking in! Barely breathing! Wanting a candy bar and a skirt and a little old man with a thermos beside me! Off we go now…wheeeeeeeee!
LOL !
My thoughts, exactly! : )
Hmmm…think I’d prefer my husband, Norm, beside me rather than a little old man! LOL! 🙂
Hi Norm!
You have captured it so well but with the fresh eye of a visitor – and a very sharp one at that. I love your photo and comments about the couple on the bench. As an American here for 20 years I learned that the Englsh can make a delightful outing from just a tea flask, a biscuit (cookie) and a newspaper. You see them in a park, or by a lane in a “lay by” with a little table and chairs taken from the car boot (trunk to us!) . The spot may have a lovely view and they enjoy the scene, the simple picnic or whatever and they are happy. It is a gift to find such joy in such a seemingly small thing. Thanks again for your wonderful blog. I take such pleasure in seeing how much you adore this place, as I do.
Such a refreshing thing for the soul! You are lucky to live here Leslie!
About skirts. Have you noticed that dresses & skirts are appearing on American women? I have. Love it. Back to femininity. French women wear skirts as well. While in France, I noticed the gorgeous, fit legs of the French women, who walk everywhere. Yet another advantage of walking.
So pretty and feminine, and comfortable!!
I agree!! I wear skirts a lot, and they’re cooler, too, in the summer!
Susan, what length are the skirts they are wearing? I agree, skirts are cooler. I’ll never forget our Math teacher in high school, back in the “olden days” when slacks were not allowed in school except for special days, saying that he could tell those days as the volume of noise in the halls was higher–the girls acted different in slacks than skirts. Interesting thought…I’ve bought a couple of pairs of palazzo pants which are now appearing here and there in catalogs. I love them–they are much cooler and feel more dressy…Loved this post and the photo of the older couple enjoying their outing…looking forward to hearing about your visit with Rachel and Paul. Hi to Alice from Fanny and Betti !!! 🙂
All lengths; younger girls are wearing minis, but from there they go all the way down to ankle length. Most are mid calf. Most are a-line, kind of snug at the top and then they flip out toward the bottom. Linen! Cotton too.
I only wear skirts! They ARE cooler in summer, but also hide a great deal at my age…..BUT I’ve yet to find an attractive pair of walking shoes to go with a skirt. 🙁 Do they have them there in England?
They wear sandals, but I think socks and tennis shoes can look pretty cute too.
Can I mention any brands here? If so, Cathy, look at Keen and Easy Spirit, for instance. They have some cute walking shoes… (and I don’t work for either company! 🙂
Sondra, great observation! I agree that the dress is back! Hooray for femininity! I think the Duchess of Cambridge aka Kate has something to do with this as young women idolize her and want the “look”. Ah, leave it to the English to start trends!
Oh my, how can you not love that precious couple outside your flat!? That truly says it all. And once again I am uplifted by another thing in England – the flowers, even in tiny spaces. I am totally ready for the next journey – I’ve put on my walking shoes, camera in hand, mind & heart opened and ready to be filled up! Bless you for including me on this journey…..XXOO to you and Joe!
Thank you! Say hello to beautiful California for me!
How thrilling!! I am going to miss Tenterden!
“… I used to call this place an apartment back in the old days” = ROTFL
Oh, I have had “The Long and Winding Road” stuck in my head since you put the link in your blog days ago!!!
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
It just gets to you doesn’t it! Have a great day Mary!
I’m so pleased you are enjoying Chelsea Susan – maybe you will visit the show on your next visit – I hope to one day. On the last day they sell off lots of the plants in the displays – a whistle blows and there is a mad scramble. Then you will see lots of people on buses and the Tube carrying their Chelsea treasures home to their own gardens. Now I’m looking forward to your next adventure in London. What treasures will you find there.
PS – I LOVE it that you’ve bought a skirt – just what you need in this summer heat. Please show us!
I did bring three skirts, but this one was an English skirt, and looked like it was designed by the artists at Charleston, so I will take a photo next chance I get!
Does anyone know of a video available of Chelsea flower show?
Diane I was wondering the same thing? I tried to link up on the internet but the player is only available to BBC viewers in the UK. I would love to watch this program. If anyone knows of a way for us to view it could you lets us in on the method? Thanks tons….
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your wonderful photos and commentaries. What a special gift you have for transporting people to other locales. Did love the angelica with purple leaf and the bench picnic. Have been wearing a skirt to church lately and find it exceedingly comfortable. Looking forward to our next outing.
..”the country habit has me by the heart ” !!!!!!!…indeed !!!! ..how does it keep getting better and better…how enchanting is this all !!..with love….
xoxo Mary! Spring? How lucky!
Oh, Susan, thank you for having us along on your adventures throughout England! I am reading each post and loving each one. How wonderful that you will be seeing Rachel and Paul very soon! It will be lovely to spend some time with good friends are tour around the London area! I have to tell you how much I loved the last photo of the couple sitting on the bench. It truly symbolizes LOVE and the miracle of it! Continued happy travels!! Have fun in London!
Rosinda xo
We’re here Rosinda! Ray says hello! She looks/is wonderful! I’ll tell her you say hi!
Susan – Please please please contact the good folks at the Philadelphia
International Flower Show…March 2013 the theme is “Brilliant” a celebration of English flowers and gardens – you could be a featured guest and promote the book coming from this trip and we would LOVE to have you visit the Delaware Valley. Pennsylvania Horticultural Society sponsors the flower show. Longwood Gardens, all sorts of arboretums, the Liberty Bell, the Liberty Museum, the Constitution Center…it would be fun!
Marcia in Sewell, NJ
Oooo I’ve been to Longwood. What a wonderful place!!! Wouldn’t that be fun!
I can’t thank you enough for taking the time to update your blog here so that we can experience this virtually through you… what a beautiful countryside… and you are so good at describing the feel of it all…
Thank you Karen, I’m always hunting around for just the right word…say to Joe “honey, what’s the word for . . .?” He’s a huge help!
🙂
XO! Oh Sweet Sue! I’m loving every second! …the meadows, the fences, the cows and sheep, the pubs and teas, the people, the quaint farms and little towns and gardens….it’s all Splendid! (that word just popped into my head but it seemed like just the right one!…ha!) I love love love it all!!!!…. and I thank you so much for sharing it with all of us!!!
Right now, I’m in the process of constructing a little meandering path through our garden with twists and turns and little “surprises” …Your pictures are giving me just the most perfect ideas and inspiration!
The picture you took of the people on the bench is priceless!…
and Rachael and Paul are a darling couple too! I have always wanted to get to know people that live in England…Rachael’s blog sounds like it would be just the thing! ..
So, we’re off for more wonderful adventure! Beatrix Potter is one of my all time favorites! …. Just had to see her exhibition when it came to DC but seeing her places through your eyes will make me feel like I’m there!
Oh!…one last thing!… can’t ever forget shopping!…I was wondering if there is any possibility that you could sell some of the oil cloth in your store and also some material with flower prints that we can’t find over here?
XOXO To You and Joe!
Victoria
I would Love to. It’s such beautiful stuff. I will put my mind to it next time I get into one of the stores that sells it.
Charming – the flowers, the homes, the couple, the laundry, your words…… Our first two weeks in England have been delightful! So looking forward to the next! Safe travels, and for now, “goodby, goodby, goodby”! xoxo
Hello to you Susan!! This has all been so wonderful so far from the gorgeous gardens and cozy tea rooms, to the winding paths, cows, lambs, castles and all the little gems you sprinkle in between!! It’s a dream come true and I’m loving and savoring every moment!! ready when you are…..cannot wait for whatever comes next!!!xoxo
It’s a real joy to see our beautiful country through the eyes of a visitor and I have loved touring Kent with you and Joe. Why would we ever want to go abroad when there are so many stunning parts of our own land as yet unexplored. We did Beatrix Potter’s Lake District in March (for the umpteenth time because the scenery is SO magnificent) and, unbelieveably, the weather was just as fabulous as it is now, hope it holds for you and Joe to see it in all it’s glory. As we live just down the road from Rachel and Paul we are really looking forward to reading about your adventures in our part of the country, might even see you in town!
Love from Ann in Thame
Are you hearing the church bells!? And isn’t this a glorious evening! We are so lucky!
You have the ‘eye’ and the ‘voice’ to capture England so beautifully. I can’t wait to see what you’ve got up your sleeve next! Us Girlfriends are squeezing in! Let’s go play!
Hi Susan,
Oh I just love that last picture of the older couple on the bench. It could just make you cry happy stuff.
I ordered a book about Ellen the English Actress. You are making me very smart, not an easy job.
Nancy Jo
LOL!
Paul is the best ever- a cup of tea AND a glass of wine! My kind of guy. 🙂 I do love that photo of the old couple at the end. There’s a scene in the movie Another Year (with the lovely Jim Broadbent) where he and his wife are sat in a shed on their allotment with rain pouring down drinking a cup of tea from a flask and not talking. I like to think that’s how my husband and I will end up one day. Anyway- enjoy London (am I the only one who always thinks “London Baby” in a Joey accent anytime someone says London?). Love everything so far!! xx
Everything is a miracle! Another wonderful post – both narration and photos. Years ago the BBC America channel showed garden shows and they were so much fun to watch. Thanks for showing us the little garden and the couple enjoying a little picnic on the bench. A good reminder to me that little things bring all the joy that big things can. I am enjoying every bit of this trip! from Attleboro MA..
Happy Sandy, thank you!
Yes, it IS “Attleboro”–I always say and think “Sandy-in-Boston”. Two syllables rather than four, but love the sound of the real location… 🙂 Beautiful area that it has been too long since I’ve visited. One of these days–sooner than they think–we’ll be visiting there!!! 🙂
I am in the car and ready for the next adventure….this is just the BEST vacation!
Glad you’re enjoying it, churchbells going off here again, this is the churchiest town we’re in!
hi susan!! good morning….today you happened to use my husband’s MOST favorite quote,,the miracle quote from Einstein….we say it often and believe it always….thank you!…absolutely adore the couple on the bench…the sweetest moment yet….our 33rd anniversary is tomorrow (miracle!!) and we are celebrating by visiting our Missouri Botanical Garden Japanese Lantern show…a traveling exposition that features 26 HUGE, lighted “lanterns” placed throughtout the garden…with so much in bloom right now..it should be stunning…….so happy to see all of the gardens in England and am trying to locate the floral show on BBC here via our cable system…in honor of you, England, and gardens everywhere..i am wearing a skirt tomorrow night!! safe travels to London…cannot wait to see all of the treasures you unearth there!! And thanks again for this lovely lovely trip….have fun!! love, cindy
hi susan..update!!! it’s the Lantern Festival created from Chinese artists in the Japanese part of the Garden..whew!!!! gotta get my Asian straight!!!!! (miracle!)..xo c
Happy Anniversary Cindy, what a nice way to celebrate!
Cracker crumbs! I need to find that variety here in the states and plant it next to my hosta called “spilt milk” My garden will be a wonderful mess!
Perfect!
I’m so enjoying our trip through England, the gardens, countryside, the quaint little tea rooms (love the teacups in the cupboard) the history of it all. It’s been just lovely so far seeing through your eyes. As for skirts…I’ve been a skirt wearer for sometime now, so much more comfortable than jeans, and they look lovely with flip flops in the summer and to tights and boots in the winter. I think I would fit in nicely there! Have you enjoyed the food there Susan? Hope for some new recipes when you return. Looking forward to London, can’t wait to get in the car for the ride! East Longmeadow, Ma
The food has been delicious, but the menu’s are hard for me to read. I keep saying “I know this is English, but tell me again, what is it?”
Susan please design a Charleston skirt for us! I’m sure we will all look smashing in our lovely bohemian outfits! Skirts are so comfortable, particularly now that the weather is getting much warmer. Can’t wait for the next installments of our lovely trip. Give Rachel a hug and kiss and enjoy your time in London! xoxo ♥
Can’t wait to show you a picture of this skirt and see if you agree!
Where has the time gone?…I can’t believe it has been 2 weeks already!! I read many British blogs and it’s so easy to pick up their terminology. Flat, bits and bobs, the loo, mum, anyroad, and one of my faves: faff/faffy. I love ‘our’ flat there–with you and Joe–windows open, all that loveliness outside…and imagine…clothes drying on the line!!….it’s been forever since I’ve hung clothes to dry. Many of the places I’ve lived clotheslines are taboo…considered an eyesore. A shame really. Going to the suitcase now since we are going to London–to see the Queen??….via the hills of TN.
Never do know what might be next. I know you would love it right NOW, there is a beautiful breeze here in Rachel’s backyard, I’m outside, in her garden, all alone, it’s really too good to be true.
Not only have you introduced us to England but to Rachel! We’ve all fallen in love with her as well! I want all several hundred of you to come for tea in my backyard! Come when you can! We can have one big group hug!
Yes, let’s have a party for several hundred! 🙂 Our hearts are definitely in the right place! I’m so happy you’ve gotten to know Rachel!!!
Ooo! A party with all of Sue’s world-wide girlfriends ~ better have it on the mainland; we’d quite possibly sink the tiny island of Martha’s Vineyard! XoXo
I LOVE all the sharing of photos and descriptions. Thank you! The English people surely know what matters and take time to live. The couple on the bench….lovely sight! Total contentment. Looking forward to the rest of the trip. Have fun! Marcy
xoxo ! Thanks Marcy!
Waaaaaaa……do we have to leave??? I think if I went to England I’d have to stay a year before I could get myself to move on to the next place! At least I know with you and Joe I’ll enjoy the next place as much as I’ve enjoyed Kent, so I’ll pack my portmanteau and tag along.
I also just realized, after playing the Beatle song, why I’m an Anglophile. I was just 13 when they landed on American soil. I was watching the Ed Sullivan show and there they were! Until then I’d not been interested in anything teenagey. They stole my heart and stamped “British” on it. I even developed an English accent (for awhile) ;-), had long straight (courtesy of an iron) hair with bangs in my eyes. I went to two of their concerts and will be forever jealous that you actually got to meet them!
Yes, I know. I would be deeply jealous too. 🙂 But to even go to a concert! And I was older, 17, already in attack mode!
This is such a treat for all of us. We get to sit back and visit all the wonderful people you meet. This a very beautiful country and you have captured all of it’s beauty. I really enjoy tea and am hoping you come back with some wonderful tea’s and maybe even tea set’s? My Mom always drank tea and would mix English Breakfast with Orange Spice(loose tea) and what a delight it always was. Have fun on your next stop and Happy Memorial Day to you and Joe<3 Sandy
That sounds really good! Will have to try it…throw in a little constant comment?
Every day gets better and better! I knew nothing about the Chelsea Flower show, and although I can’t watch it live, the clips I saw were amazing!!! That pyramid garden was unbelievable! Okay, I’m reluctant to leave, but excited for the next adventure!!! Lead on, MacBeth! 🙂
Discovery! Yay!
Susan, Safe travels, I’m saying this from the back seat, hope you can hear me…
I checked BBCA, no Chelsea flower show here, drats. I was salivating over those gorgeous photos with fabulous flower photos. I’m so excited about the next leg of our sojourn!!! I’m beaming with the thrill of Beatrix AND Emma – can it get any better???? Well, pip, pip and cherri-o to you. Hugs and love, Jeanette
BBC America, how can they call themselves BBC? I can never figure that out. Pip-pip Jeanette!
Ditto, Susan!!
Oh Susan, it can’t have been two weeks already! We need to stay longer, we need to linger and absorb every essence from our little vacation. We need to drink more tea, take more walks, smell more flowers and meet more people. We need to have more picnics, visit more houses; we need to relax in our flat and just be! Thank you so much for packing me in your suitcase. My life has been very challenging and catching up on my English vacation has relieved my stress in the evenings.
Good morning Sweetie Pie from beautiful New England, You tickle my heart all the time ! I wear skirts a lot, love gardens to pieces, Beatirix Potter, Tea, must be English ! You are the best, best ,best blogger in the world ! Keep having a marvolous time because we sure are ! P.S Picnics are sooooooo romantic !
That was so nice! Because I have the best blogger girlfriends!
Skirts, flowers and tea….oh my! I can feel my ancestors beckoning me to enjoy their way of life. I can’t believe these two weeks have passed so quickly. You’re right…time does fly when you have so much to look at.
I’m all packed and ready to go. Just need to squeeze in a little tighter between the girls.
Firstly, your choice of music put me into a nostalgic mood (this is one of my favorite Beattle songs). Have truly enjoyed the time exploring around Tenterdon — your photogs are worth 10,000 words each! Looking forward to Beatix Potter country. It just keeps getting better each day! Thanks.
XOXO!
Two weeks gone already?! Wow! Time DOES fly! That first flower garden picture is PERFECT! I hope you don’t mind but I copy and pasted it into my computer wallpaper! It’s so cheery. The picture you took of the sweet couple relaxing on the bench outside your upstairs flat window reminds me so much of one I took at our hotel when we stayed in Moreton-on-Marsh of an elderly woman in a little dress with her pink cardigan sweater shopping at the “fete” just below our window….I felt a bit of a stalker taking picture after picture of her but, one must capture those moments of sweet English people because we’re only there for such a short time! You’re right….that photo DOES personify “love!” Have a nice day…..on to more adventures. I’m squeezed in and ready to go! xoxo…kp
I now have a folder in my photos called English People in Love! Really! Love your pink cardigan lady!
That outdoor tea cabinet is just perfect! Looks like MY tea cup collection….a little bit of everything sweet that I find while scouring thrift stores!
I love the little old couple on the park bench! That is what growing old should look like. Hope you have a lovely day… thanks so much for the update. ♥
Oh, we are leaving our gorgeous view already!!!!! It can’t be!!! But more adventure ahead… am rotating to new pair of walking shoes….got my summer frocks packed and ready to go…. is Joe hauling all of our stuff this time?.. I can’t believe there will be more beauty waiting for us.. How can you top our little place on the town “square”!…perfect people-watching. I aspire to be just like the older couple with my hubs!!! Ah time… I love it!!! Sucked in and ready to hit the road!!! I want the window seat!!!! 🙂 please!!!!!!!!!!
You can’t top anything here, all you can do is add, and connect! More more more. Isn’t life so very wonderful?
The way you and Joe live it? Couldn’t be better!!! xoxo
LOVE!!!!!!
I’m having the time of my life. You and Joe sure know how to have a vacation!
Hello Susan! All your pictures and words keep me breathless!!! Thank you Susan for including us in your English travels!!! Every time I check in to read of your discoveries I feel like I am already “reading your book “. Couldn’t believe my eyes when seeing all of those tea cups at the outdoor tea room!!!!! (My favorites were the ones with the little blue flowers!!!) This Memorial Day weekend I ‘m on the hunt to buy some blue Forget-Me-Note flowers to plant………I love them…too bad you can’t snatch some and bring them home in your pocket for me!!!! Sweet Peas are filling my thoughts for the flowerbeds too as I loved those curtains so. Safe traveling to you and Joe!!!
I really wanted to go through every one of those saucers, but played it cool, and LOVED the cup I got!!!! Love your romantic flower choices!
It’s wonderful to hear that the two of you
had a lovely, quiet, relaxing evening in the flat.
Sometimes, one’s wanderlust heart & feet need a respite,
from all the adventure.
The “Pure Joy” photo Joe took of the little girl
racing the hedgerow at Sissinghurst
and the one you posted here, of the adorable, English couple
are like a timeline…..the timeline of life.
What a connection-
young, innocent, precocious child
and wise, elderly, contented couple-
a great beginning & ending photo for your journal-
with all your other amazing photos, watercolors & words between.
It is almost, as if those two snapshots
were meant to happen,
as if only you & Joe would be able to capture them
with the affection & simplicity they deserved.
Coincidinky ?
I don’t thinky !
I’m sure there’s lots more to come.
Have a restful, peaceful visit with friends,
as much as we love hearing from you,
we don’t want you, taking precious time away from your journey,
tied down to your computer.
Best tell your publisher to request an extra, large print production
of this project-
it’s ALREADY a bestseller & you’ve barely begun.
LOL, love Coincidinky, I don’t thinky!” LOL xoxo!
Since you boarded the boat I have had my map out and I am dotting your travels. It gives me a thrill to follow along. My heart be still……Beatrix Potter’s House! I can’t wait. Have a wonderful visit with your friends. I hope you get time for tea at Kensington Gardens. xo
I know…tea at the Orangerie at Kensington Gardens? Gorgeous!
Susan, don’t be sad because no matter where you go you are going to find more beauty in gardens and castles because in England it is a prerequisite that beauty is always abound!!! My heart is full with the picture of the elderly couple and made me say aaaww….Love is not only for the young…also the young at heart!!!! Wishing you a safe journey to London and enjoy all the adventure that trip will bring. Just an update on my Angel….she arrived at Salzburg this morning and already has stories to share…..she is writing a Blog so we can follow her along her journey!!! Happy Trails and Indy is gearing up for the “Big Race” on Sunday the temps. are scheduled to be 95!!!! YIKES Wishing Everyone a Safe and Fun Holiday Weekend. Drivers…..start your engines!!!! Varoom……..
i’ll be looking for one of those signs…
KEEP CALM
AND
WEAR A SKIRT
m ^..^
Like it!
thank you for all the English pictures, & info. i feel like I’m with you. what a wonderful journey. I so want to go. Thanks for making all of us feel like we are with you. I wish there were more places we could get packaged tea (not bags) here in the states. Keep up all the pictures & info. Thank you so much.
I bet you will now be deluged with 1600 places to find loose tea, and what is the very best one of all! 🙂
I love your pictures! And I’m glad that you don’t need to get a larger car when bringing all of us along! You just keep us safely in your heart… how precious is that!! Off we go…..
Thank you, that is so very true.
Can’t believe it’s been two weeks already!! Yes – time needs to slow down although it sounds like you are savoring each tiny second of the experience!! Just bought two wonderful dresses this week for summer!!
Can’t wait to hear about the adventures in London!!
Loving all the green and the gardens.
BTW my well worn copy of Kitchen Gardens says that angelica was so named during the Middle Ages because people thought it was sent by the angels to resist and cure the plague! It grows well in cool climates. Very sweet and often paired with rhubarb, apple, and cherry. Can also be brewed as tea and made into wine!! The stems are hollow and can be used as a straw – wouldn’t that be wonderful for lemonade?? I always though it sounded so intriguing!
TT4N
Just realized that Kitchen Gardens is illustrated by Tasha Tudor!! What a nice surprise!! I’m sure I knew this before! Serendipity!
What goes around comes around!
I just realized that I have this book Kitchen Gardens and had forgotten that it was illustrated by Tasha Tudor! Imagine! I must be getting old!
That was wonderful, thank you Kerry!
Hi, Susan, I love the pictures of the gardens and lovely old couple on the bench. I emailed (hope it’s OK) to my daughter(who starts college in fall) the pic of the tea room and all the assorted tea cups. She’s the big tea drinker at our house and we have collected odds and ends tea cups and saucers from thrift stores and what not. She loves them, but one of her friends said they should have the next tea party at her house so as to have matching cups and saucers! Anyway, your schedule looks very full for the next few weeks and can’t wait to come along and see all the sites. Have fun and travel safe.
Thank you Barb, and Hello to your teacup collecting daughter!
Oh gosh, Susan! I really never thought about going to England. I am a Royal watcher, but never thought of visiting. I am in love! Not only do I want to visit, you have me almost wanting to live there! It really is beautiful there. I have loved your blogs and especially the wanderings! Thank you for taking us along. I
am going to start to save my pennies!! You and Joe are just too adorable!
You would love it, we should all get a commune! One of the old oast houses would do for me. Or a city cottage with a four foot garden space!
Sign me up!
A virtual commune, or even two, sounds wonderful to me. One on MV and one somewhere tucked away in the UK. I’m sure the Girlfriends would be delighted with anywhere that you and Joe picked out!! Oh my, think of all the decorating help you would have, Susan 🙂 And little lambs every spring, with assistance from the farming Girlfriends…Simply Stupendous!!!
xoxoxo,
Kathy
I’ll volunteer to spin the sheep’s wool on my spinning wheel for all of the girlfriends who are knitters! 🙂 though I can’t say Betti and Fanny would do a good job herding the sheep! LOL!
I don’t picture you shearing sheep, am I wrong?
I figured those who want the wool spun into yarn would bring me the sheared wool–all scoured (washed) AND carded ready for spinning! LOL!!! 🙂 (I’ll also be happy to give spinning lessons and knitting lessons to anyone wanting to learn…) 🙂
No, once again you are right!!! 🙂
Your travels are conjuring up happy memories for me. My husband’s hobby was gardening before he became disabled, and BOY could he garden! It came so naturally to him. He would come home from a very hard day of construction work and unwind by weeding and pruning. There was ALWAYS a new garden project in his head, or in the works. When we were in Hawaii for our 30th Anniversary 8 years ago we spent not a few hours in nurseries, photographing and writing down varieties of palms (and other plants) he hoped he could grow in Socal. Like the English gardens, our yard had several garden “rooms” which were themed…Woodland, Meadow, and Tropical (his fav), complete with a huge koi pond and a cabana. Many of our vacations included trips to nurseries and checking out the local plants. Though he is unable to ‘dig’ or even ‘communicate’ he will occasionally turn the pages of his gardening books. I think he will always be a gardener at heart. Your wonderful descriptions and photos are filling my mind with happy days. Thank you.
Your husband sounds like such a doll. That he made such beauty. How great for you both. xoxo
I live with a chronic illness and can’t travel too far. How I have relished finding each new post on your blog! This morning I am propped up in bed resting after a restless night sipping my Earl Gray and travelling with you. You notice just the things I want to see and am happy to delight in. My parents were Europeans and loved to picnic anywhere with a view! Thanks for giving me such a lovely view this morning! Can’t wait for the next installment….no pressure! 🙂
I am so happy you are here! I love that it’s the easy way to travel. I love your “name” Hope4today, that says it all!!!
Dearest “Hope” ~ know that you are not the only girlfriend in such circumstances, honey. We can hold hands, close our eyes, and let Susan whisk us over & thru the bad days. And isn’t she already the kindest friend EVER to have showered our years with happiness, beauty, flowers, friends, good food and LOVE?!? So, THANK YOU! DEAR SUE & JOE, not just for today, but for all of the days and “Seasons” you’ve shared from your hearts to ours! XoXo
Happy to be here with you all!
Love, love, love every story & photo on this adventure! That older couple is adorable & reminds me of the last scene from one of my favorite movies….you know the one, with Hugh Grant & Julia Roberts 🙂 So cute! Kelly in Eastern PA where the weather has been quite “British” lately….
Nottingham Hill?
Notting Hill?
Yes Judy, you’ve got it!
Goodbye Tenterden…hello Beatrix…can’t wait 🙂 !!
It’s been enchanting Susan and much like I pictured it.
I will touch it all one day.
I am so English in my heart.
“English in my heart” . . . love it, we are citizens of the world!
Hello Susan, my traveling girlfriend, your post is such a treat and a treasure to behold. I check in each morning for a new posting, and when there is one, I get a sweet feeling in my heart, and I get another cup of coffee and toast my English muffin then settle-in for an exciting British adventure. I hope you turn this part of your blog into a book with all the girlfriends replies too! You are giving us so much pleasure and information that we will want to reread and save this cyber vacation. Safe travels….
I was thinking the same thing, reading everyone’s comments is terrific fun too! We are all “English at heart”. I AM English and when I lived there, I had no idea that the country was so popular! Now I wish I was back there! My family want to accompany me on a visit to my parents house in The Cotswold village of Wick next year. We are all saving our pennies and hope to be able to go. I absolutely can’t wait! I also can’t wait for the “book” you are writing on your travels, or England or whatever it is…I want one! Loving taking this “vacation” with you and I am looking forward to the next adventure.
What a fun adventure for you and your family with all your connections to the beautiful Cotswolds!
Loved the post today. I have been to the Boston flower show many times and they just have the most beautiful flowers and its such a fun day. The gardens in London look sooo wonderful, glad I came along for the trip. I wasn’t going to (sea sickness) but all my girlfriends held my hair back when needed. Now I’m jumping into the car so tell Joe to take it nice and slow.
Thank you, that’s a relief, if you do it, then I can keep quiet and look like the sweet one! 🙂
Glad to play the “villian” but Joe knows theres precious cargo on board.
Hi Susan!
I can’t tell you how much I am enjoying your trip to England. Welcome! I can’t tell you what a treat it is to see my Country through a visitor’s eyes. And such a complimentary visitor!
We all take the everyday for granted, I think. We concentrate on the negatives and problems of living. You have made me stop and see things with fresh eyes. I’ve even made a note of some places to visit after seeing your pictures.
Looking forward to the rest of the trip!
Jackie
Church bells ringing right now on St. Mary’s square across from Rachel’s house, where we’ve just arrived. How could we not love it!? Thank you Jackie!
Off we go on another adventure. Sad to leave Kent behind, but thrilling to go to another wonderful place. It is always fun to make memories with friends that you can share for a life time. The gardens are amazing. I wonder, do they use Miracle Grow too? I’m thinking London will be fast pace, so I will take in a deep breath and hang on for the ride. Be safe. xoxo
I have loved every bit of your wonderful adventure! It is so great that you’re sharing it with us.
Susan~ I have been faithfully following you from the very start, your very first book. I saw you on your first tour of the book in a book store in Sonoma CA. I loved you then ~ and I looove you now. I’ve gone thru it all, even your store near SLO. But, this makes me faint ! It is the B E S T ! ! ! I can hardly wait for the book. Each nite my hubby and I check in here to see what is next. It just gets better and better. ( I love the little couple on the bench, the tea cups, and Hilltop Farm. David and I have to go !! We have to take the Joe & Susan trip, we must. Only thing is..given the love of gardening, tea, walking paths, pub food, countryside and all… I would not want to come back. Thank you SO much for these beautiful diary jottings~ much love and appreciation~ Colleen.
We are having that exact same problem Colleen! 🙂 Joe shows me pictures of houses and says, “What about this?” So happy you are enjoying it … vicarious enjoyment is all we have to offer, but it’s not so bad with the computer these days! Would love to see you taste those scones and go ahhh when the lambs wag their tails!
Living in England would be delightful if it weren’t for their taxes! And property is tres cher/very expensive! We’ll have to buy more SB books! 🙂
I’m just squeezing into the backseat…ooof dah! Don’t want to miss a minute of the trip. I’m so loving all of it. Anyone want to play I Spy with My Little Eye?
good morning, is it time to leave here already???? guess i had better not eat at tea or i won’t get in the trunk for the ride to London. do we get to shop at Harrods??? that is such a cute couple out there, i hope you told them that they are so cute. okay back in the trunk, no tea or goodies for me. Happy Memeorial Weekend. hugs….. 🙂
The never saw me, they were way below our flat, I just saw them and thought you would like them too!
Oh! Susan, I feel so disconnected because, for some mysterious reason, your blog has not been appearing as an email for me for over a week . It must be floating someplace between England and CA. Fortunately, I have you bookmarked so I can find you that way. Thank you, again, for including your “family of friends” on this wonderful adventure!
Another way would be to just go to http://www.162.240.10.175/~susanbs3/susanbranch/ and there it is! Glad you are finding your way!
Susan, wondering if you’ve ever been to Petersham Nursery-a garden center and cafe on the outskirts of London.
I think I’ve heard of it, but I haven’t been there, is it wonderful?
I am love, love, loving my tour from “across the pond”. Thankyou!
You give us everything–flowers, food, and now fashion!! Safe travel to London. I’ve been there twice and want to go back for more.
Oh what a wonderful post! They are all good actually!! I can’t wait to get my hands on this English diary book you will be putting together! How exciting! It is just glorious fun being taken on this fabulous journey with you and Joe! I would never get to see all this wonderfulness otherwise. I’m excited about seeing Beatrix Potter’s house, and the Emma Bridgewater tour! Paul and Rachel look adorable indeed! They look like such a fun couple, and your time with them coming up sounds like soooo much fun!! Enjoy!!!
Susan, I love the outdoor cabinet and teacups. I have a teacup collection of my mother- in-law’s…I adore everyone of them. She is deceased and how I wish I had known her. She was Irish and she had tea every afternoon. She was a special lady.
I’m so excited to see what’s around the corner and I am sure it will be more delightful than the last event you shared with us.
I loved the sweet couple having a picnic, I agree, the picture speaks love.
I have also been wearing more skirts lately and I will be wearing them even more. I love them!!
Susan, thank you again and again!! Sending xxxxoooo to you and Joe!! Stay safe!
Thank you Bobbie Ann!
Two weeks already?!! That can’t be possible!
Well, so far I have enjoyed this holiday immensely, though I do feel awfully squished in this car! 😉
And speaking of gardens . . . I’m off to tend to some weeds in mine! I have an area just waiting to be cleared for my newest rose bush. I’ve had her for two weeks, but there’s been either too much rain or too much sun for planting. But today? Perfect!
Cheers!
WHAT? Two weeks already?!! The only thing that calms the fact that time has flown by is that you’re off to Beatrix Potter’s. Can’t wait to read and see everything there. I am having the very best vacation, thanks to you.
Love the picture of the older couple. Our friends laugh at us (good natured laughing) because my husband and I are always heading off to the mountains for a daytrip and a picnic. Many is the time I pack a quick lunch and we drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway here in North Carolina…even in winter. Why sometimes, we sit in the car, eat sandwiches and fruit, and get caught in a quick light snow and just listen to the quiet. Life is good as we are approaching the autumn of our lives and it takes only the two of us being alone together to make a really wonderful day. Wouldn’t you like to be a fly on the park bench and just study those two sweeties whilst they are each individually engrossed in their reading, but obviously liking to be near one another. How dear that he’s facing her; I want to believe that’s intentional.
Can’t wait to show today’s post to my friend who almost never wears pants and is always telling me how much more comfortable skirts are.
Ta-ta for now from Diane in North Carolina
It could be unconscious that he’s facing her, and that would be wonderful too! Either way, you’re right, it’s very dear.
It could be unconscious that he’s facing her, and that would be wonderful too! Either way, I think you’re right, it’s very dear.
Good Evening Sweetest Sue…Two Weeks has Flown!!! Oh My Goodness! The Chelsea Flower Show The Beatles & a Cup of Tea…delightful…I Love “Angelica~Purple Leaf” 🙂 The View from Your Flat Brought Tears to Me Eyes…ahhhhhhhhhhhhh….Bye Bye Darling Kent….& Now All a Board…on a Train to London…for Two Days! & With Rachel & Paul & Room Service…sounds Like Heaven to Me Darling Sue! Sending Hugzzz & Love & Always a Bit of Traveling~Pixie~Dust….I am Ready for The next Enchanting Part of “Our” Journey! Good Night & Sweetest Slumber My Lovely “English~Lass”…(& Laddie) xoxo Poof! 🙂
Rachel was reading your comment over my shoulder and said, “Angie must have a special program . . . she puts in all the normal words, and then it just Pixifies them!”
I love that 🙂
Hugzzzzzzzzzzzz Janie! xoxo Poof! ♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥* 🙂
Huge Smile on My Face Girlies! 🙂 xoxo Poof! ♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*
Angie – are you using Emoji? Want to download it but don’t know if it will work for non-Mac computers & iPhone??!
Oh Susan! i said it before I’ll say it again…..”it just gets better and better” I have my skirt on , and i am doing the HAPPY DANCE…….and be still my heart…we are headed for Beatric Potters house…. You are the greatest!!!!!!! Thank you!!!!!!!!
Glad you didn’t forget your skirt (see Bridget Jones’s Diary!).
One of the funniest lines from a favorite movie!!
I am having soooooo much fun reading this blog! Susan, you are able to make me feel as though I am there. I love the English countryside and all the buildings, city or country village. Skirts, too! I wear a lot of skirts. Maybe it’s my heritage! Thank you for this wonderful visit and I look forward to each and every day you blog.
I am going to put on a skirt, pick out a good book, get a cuppa and sit in the sun with my leg up….(it’s healing) and invite the love of my life to join me…he hasn’t been on this journey with us, so I think it’s time to share where we have been and where we are going…I can’t wait for the next place.
Have a safe journey….oh, that’s right, I am going along as well….:)
xoxo Sue M.
Susan
I am going to miss all the pictures of England? Well not really I can go back and look anytime I want to see England and its charm! The flowers here Susan most of them are wildflowers! I love those! Well until next time I look forward to the next adventurer with you and Joe. Hey by the way hows the kitties doing Susan? bet they miss you! XO happy traveling…stay safe.
Yay! I’m so excited to be at Rachel’s! Love to you both! xoxo
Hi back Janie!! Ray has just made us a delicious dinner . . . but she is saying “Love Janie!”
I’m savoring each post and the beautiful photos, Susan. Heaven on earth! I love the old couple with their park bench picnic. I agree…that’s love. ♥ And I’m happy to hear that skirts are back. Here in the Northwest, nobody dresses up anymore, even going to church, so I’m definitely going to try and wear them more often. I’m in the car now and eager for our next destination! Can’t wait to see Hilltop Farm again!!! 🙂
Changing the world, one little skirt at a time! 🙂
Can I copy your picture of Love on a Bench? I think it is one of the most lovely things I have ever seen. There are no words to tell you how much your missives from this part of England have meant. Thank you Thank you for sharing your trip.
Yes, please do. xoxo
I am so enjoying all your adventures! Enjoy London and Marylebone, the High Street is one of my favorite places to shop, and the train station (my local London one) is very beautiful as you walk through the little arches outside and off into the world…
Oh Sue! Ethel and I have so been enjoying your posts, but today’s really brought chills and tears. The lovely couple on the bench is my dream for the future. To age and still enjoy the simple things and each other is as good as it gets. Can’t wait to visit Beatrice Potters home with you. Safe travels to you two! Luv Lucy
:*** I don’t want to go!!!!! 🙁
Safe trip home. XOXO
I’m looking forward to Chatsworth, Susan…my Mum is secreted away there…long story! Please tell her I said hello…Dorothy is her name~! I miss her.
Thank you for this delightful blog, I’m enthralled.
Bottoms up!
OK, Hello to Dorothy at Chatsworth! xo
Sigh, sigh, sigh, sigh, sigh and another sigh!!!!
The little couple are charming and peaceful. Sigh.
This was another delightful post. The flowers and gardens are beautiful, your adventures are wonderful and ANY teacup or tea room will get my attention. 🙂 What I enjoy most, tho, is your underlying attitude toward life which is so perfectly phrased in the Einstein quote (a favorite of mine). Your appreciation for life and all the tiny details of each day is infectious. Love this trip!
You’re so thoughtful to take me along this journey. I am thoroughly enjoying it and look forward to the next stop. Thank you!
Thank you a million times for the BBC links to Chelsea!! The “urban garden tower” is amazing!! Like a modern version of Swiss Family Robinson tree house! Watched all the clips!! What fun to see that celebrities are excited about gardens too (or at least they are during the interviews)!
Happy trails!
I can’t wait for you to get to Emma Bridgewater in Stoke. I am going to the Jubilee lunch next Sunday and so looking forward to it. Its such a fun colourful place – I have been going there for 20 years.
But Hilltop – now that is just the best, but wait and see.
I live in the UK and just love it so much – have a wonderful trip.
Thank you for not telling me! xoxo
oH Susan……awww….that couple together on the park bench!!! I wanna be that
someday!!! She packs a little picnic lunch in her shiny black purse and “oh” the
stories they could tell !!! Hey, wait a minute…..it Could be a first date !!! They
are having a park-bench-picnic and he is looking to see what time the movie
starts ! It makes me think about Love…..when you think about it….it doesn’t
seem to matter where we Live, what Lanuguage we speak, what Food we eat…. ALL we want IS TO BE LOVED….and Smile…..and Love Someone Back !!!!! Well,
we just gotta Love Something Everyday & Smile….And spend time with good
friends *Rachel&Paul* !!!! Susan, please give a wink & a nudge to Rachel for me
and if you “clink” wine glasses may I say, “To the Old Lady !!!” Silly Rachel !!!!
Old Friends ….but never ever “OLD Ladies!!!” Forever Young at Heart !!!
Enjoy!Eat!Laugh!Learn!Love!Repeat!!!
JOE+SUSAN+RACHEL+PAUL = LOVE FOREVER&EVER!!! (not in a weird way!)
….”thankyou for giving us someone to love back!” XoXDawn
It was exactly like that around the dinner table last night, love forever!
…..absolutely positively perfectly perfect!
Thank you, thank you for all of these wonderful posts!!
Please move over and make room for me. I wanna go too. I have enjoyed the walks and will hate when we have to go home. I am really enjoying this trip. Do we really have to go home some day?
Yes, but we will do it the slow way! And then, I think my gladiolus will be in bloom. My kitty will be catching the ball and it will all still be good!
….perfectly “good”….”there’s no place like home!”
I hope that Dawn in MN and Deborah in IN both stay close while we are in London. If they straggle behind and I get sent back for them, we’ll ALL end up lost!!! Can’t wait to see pictures of the next leg of the trip. Will you post a picture of Rachel, Paul, and Alice??? 🙂
Of course! If I can get the three of them together; I already got some great pictures of Alice!
“No worries Pat”….”stuck like glue”….but there will be so much to look at!!!
I won’t lollygag….but my Dad always did say, “We’re not lost…we are
discovering new things!”
Well…well…well….so you won’t lollygag eh Dawn?? I don’t think I will be making that promise because I’m “Prince” watching if we even get close to the Palace (not in a stalker way)….and not Charles or William because they are taken so I guess that leaves Harry the little rebel….we won’t give Pat any trouble since we are in the city we need to watch for double decker buses no open meadows for awhile. I’m a little weakened right now because of our HOT TEMPS HERE…HIGH 90’S for the Indy 500 and believe me I wilt in that heat…so plenty of water for me….that glue isn’t super is it…wouldn’t surprise me since Pat wants us close together!!! HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY ALL……
Deborah, you might not get back here to read this but it is terribly hot here in Minnesota, too. Too hot to stick too close together! 🙂
Hi Pat, isn’t it awfully hot this early in the season?? Well, yesterday (29th) we got a little shower and now the temps. are in the 70’s and they are predicting more rain and by the weekend temps. in the 60’s?? now, I hate to complain; but, that seems a little extreme!! I know we are never happy!!
Hi Dawn from Minnesota! How be ye, funny girlfriend?
I left you a reply under ‘A Day of Discovery.’ Isn’t this trip fun?
Pat all you’ll have to do is follow the trail of scone crumbs…. Dawn from MN LoVeS scones 🙂
I love reading all these comments they have been a lot of fun to read…. feels like we are really there. Thank you Susan for making this happen.
London’s kind if tough to navigate because every block seems to have a different street name. At least we will be walking, taking the train, or tube, but we all need to keep our wits about us, and remember to LOOK RIGHT FIRST, and better forget about jaywalking!!!
Absolutely love this!! Your photo of the couple outside your flat reminds me of a book I became acquainted with during my college years (’50s) called The Family of Man, a collection of black and white photography that covers every emotion you could possibly imagine. All of your photos are so stunning. I’m enjoying every minute of this trip. Thank you so much!
Nancy from California
p.s. bought a skirt last week. 🙂
Skirts are my all time favorite ware. I am still attempting to find a way stay modest in the Wild Wyoming Wind, but was offered this little tidbit of advice from an 85 year old ranch patriarch…..Keep your arms down and we won’t see your petticoats. Seriously GOOD ADVICE! Arms down, holding a yard of fabric to the knee. It is my new walking habit because I was desperately missing my shifty, swishy skirts.
Enjoy your new homage to the English!
Jena
Wild Rainy (Finally!) Wyoming
One of my favorite items from the Laura Ashley 1980’s were these cotton lace edged underskirts (slips) they made; you wore them under the swishy skirts and the lace stuck out of the bottom by about 2 inches. Looked really good over boots. I still have mine, but it needs new elastic!
I so miss Laura Ashley!
She’s still here, but in a bit of a different form. I bought a little LA sweater!
Isn’t there SOMEONE out there reading these comments who could pick up on the “Laura Ashley look” and put out a line of clothing here in the U.S.A.??? You’d think they would sell like crazy. I think we’re ready for those romantic, feminine styles again…
Oh Susan….what a treat to visit with you in England. I’m with you and hubby each step of the way. Although, I do get lost looking at all those wonderful buildings. The pictures today are just ‘grand’. This is about as close as I will ever get to England, so I’m enthralled by it all. Thanks for the ride, just how many bodies do you think can squeeze into your back seat – I’m holding my breathe!!! Chat later, much love and oh, tweeds and tights, fashion of the day.
Our back seat has the same properties as fishes and loaves, plenty of room for everyone!
Love that response, Susan!!! 🙂
Hi Susan
I am loving the trip. What a beautiful picture of the couple on the bench. Wouldn’t you love to know their story. They have seen and lived so much. They look like the best of friends and so much more.
Susan M
Wonderful photos of a beautiful country! 3 weeks sounds like a long time but it’s not nearly enough, is it.
I never saw my grannie in anything but a skirt or a dress, I don’t think she even owned a pair of trousers. I have photos of her riding a camel (wearing a skirt) and wading in the Dead Sea (again, wearing a skirt and holding her handbag). 🙂
The Queen has NEVER worn a pair of pants. Heard it on BBC!
Susan, Wonderful news!!! I just heard that a study was finished of people who lived to be 100. One of the factors which contributed to their longevity is that they had The Happy Gene. Yay!
Big help!
Did they have any statistics Patsy on whether wearing skirts is a factor in longevity? 😉
Diane, I have to laugh because, after reading the previous post by Jane S., I, too, thought Patsy was going to say the study showed women who wore skirts lived longer!
The outdoor tea rooms cupboard put me over the top! My brother and his wife just came back from 2 weeks in Irish countryside and I have been whizzing back and forth across the Irish sea ever day or two to share both trips…although they have been indulging in Guinness as they go, not tea!