Of course there’s really not, a more congenial spot, for happily-ever-aftering, than here in Camelot . . .
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
We have moved ourselves to the beautiful village of Bibury in the Cotswolds and are out on our walk . . . Just had to show you . . . Why don’t you stop now and go get yourself a cup of tea; we want to drag out the showing of Camelot!
Lambs! They’re everywhere here . . . aren’t they beautiful? You’re allowed right in the field with them in many places. A whole field of this!
Schmooshed into the grass, mom’s and babies . . . ♥
. . . curious eyes and little pink ears . . . the babies romp and cavort and play too!
This is where we are; we saw a sign, so we know this is called Court Farm; it’s out behind our hotel, over a bridge, through the stone fences; I believe that’s the Court back there! We walked down that path to get here . . .
See that tail? Look for it in this next video and know the true meaning of the wild and wonderful word, “wag!” It’s what the babies do every time they go to nurse!
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Cutest things ever, I could watch them all day! I always wondered why Beatrix Potter didn’t paint lambs; she did geese, bunnies, squirrels, hedgehogs, but no lambs! And she even raised them at Hill Top! I would like to see them in a capped-sleeved, empire-waist apron with rick rack on the hem!
Notice how normal I look? But I’m not really normal at this moment, because, the secret is, despite the comfortable jeans, the wonderful walk, the lambs and the permanently attached camera, we have a secret!
That’s our silver careen-mobile parked in front of that gorgeous building; it’s the Bibury Court Hotel, and the secret is, we are STAYING HERE. When I told you in the car that this was our hotel, we had to sit there fifteen extra minutes before we could stop the screaming. (But I’m better now.) Now we need music! (Just click and come right back, let it play while you do!) Is that your tea kettle I hear whistling?
One walk through the little town that William Morris called “The prettiest village in England,” and you can see why we fell in love with Bibury. It’s centrally located, in the Cotswolds, near lots of wonderful houses and gardens to visit . . . the perfect place for US, right girlfriends? There’s a great pub in town called the Catherine Wheel too. I thought we should tour the town together. Ready? Shoelaces tied in double knots? We don’t want to get slowed down by loose shoelaces . . . OK, meandering time, girlfriends, here we go! Take all the time you want, breathe in the country fresh air, and enjoy!
Did you hear that water rushing behind you? That’s because, when you turned around, directly across the street from that garden in the last photo is this, the prettiest little river (The Coln) flows through the village, full of swans, ducklings, jumping fish, surrounded by wildflowers and swooped upon by terns. You can feed the ducks, walk up and down both sides, and cross all those bridges if you want.
About half a block up the street is this. I’m taking the photo from the Trout Farm on the corner . . . we stopped here at the Swan for tea and toasted crumpets, slathered with jam and buh-er; did you love it?
Here’s the famous Arlington Row Weaver’s Cottages . . . adorable little 17th century stone cottages the National Trust owns and maintains and leases as living spaces to lucky locals.
It occurred to me today that the reason we love England so much is because it’s almost entirely handmade! Most of the country buildings were built before the Industrial Revolution . . . so all the chimneys are different, the churches are different, the barns are all interesting shapes, the walls are hand cut, hand laid; the windows are arched and square, narrow and wide, leaded and unleaded with wavy handmade glass; gravestones are hand carved; it’s like the stitches in a quilt, no two quite the same! The roof tiles, each a tiny bit different because they’re handmade, put on one at a time, and centuries old. It makes for a very pretty picture when you put it all together.
We stopped for Pear Cider at the Catherine Wheel Pub, with the cute window sill; a little refreshment before we head back to the hotel . . .
You haven’t even seen our room yet! Nap time! Follow me! Take the high road!
That’s our room, on the second floor, that big window and the little one next to it on the left, with the leafy green all around it! It has a name, it’s called the King James I Room! I think they gave us an upgrade! We have stayed in some dodgy places in our time, but this is definitely not one of them!
We acted very grown up and nonchalant in front of these darling hotel staff people who showed us to our “room” and brought us our luggage, and never stopped smiling the whole time we were there, but our little hamster hearts were beating a mile a minute…
The minute they left, we ran from corner to corner, into the bathroom, into the dressing room, window to window, hissing look at this, past each other, jumped in the air, high fived, and ran on! Wait till you see the bathroom . . . wait til you see the view!!! The TV comes up, out of a cupboard, when you push a button! The bed looks little in the photo because I’m about half a mile from it! (Hey, settle down over there . . . no jumping on the bed!)
This is the shower, built for two, with drenching waterfalls, no doors; marble floor, and when you flip a switch, it gets warm, the whole floor!! I know. Shocking. You don’t have to say a thing.
The view from the bathroom window is of the river walk that goes by the hotel, up and around, past huge ancient trees, over a bridge and out to those lambs!
Your basic King James I bathtub. The towels are hanging from heated towel bars of course; now we are spoiled and wouldn’t have it any other way!
From the desk where I write you, this is the view! Of a handmade 17th century manor house with a bell-ringing church on the other side. Deliriously, I asked, half awake, each of the four mornings we woke up here, where am I?
Then there’s the leather, gold embossed mystery box . . . what could it be?
Of course, what else in this civilized country? Tea! There was an electric tea kettle too, and a refrigerator, and a separate dressing room with a closet and built-in drawers, with a window in there that has a window seat. Just in case you need a rest during the dressing period. (Through that door ↓.)
We are very happy here! And when you come downstairs, there is always the delicious fragrance of food cooking in the kitchen . . . bread baking and soup making . . .
There are many comfortable places to eat at the Bibury Court, and we tried them all; there’s room service of course; you could have candlelight in the formal dining room with hand-painted silk wallpaper and a saucy little Dover sole; the glass conservatory was wonderful for your toasted jam and cream breakfast; or lunch, spicy fresh tomato-basil soup with croutons outside, next to the river, on the flagstone porch under white umbrellas; but our favorite was the Drawing Room, where they brought us a delicious dinner of gigantic cheeseburgers and chips (French fries) in front of the fire.
It’s casual and comfy in here, you can order cocktails too and they play Frank Sinatra music; I could knit and write in my diary and Joe could read and take pictures. Brilliant! But, all good things must come to an end, after another day of lamb loving and garden admiring . . . the eyelids are getting heavy . . .
Good night, good night, we say to the charming staff, and up to bed we go… (see the floor? Old, handmade, handcut, stone. From the machine-free zone of yesteryear).
Up we go; come on stragglers, it’s bedtime, we have a big day tomorrow!
Uh-oh, no sleeping yet! Bridget Jones’s Diary is on TV! If by any chance any of you haven’t seen it yet, which does seem quite impossible, cuddle in, you’re going to love it! I’ve seen it a hundred times, and never miss another opportunity to watch these two kiss in the snow!
And look! They put lights in the Bibury trees! OK, sweet dreams girlfriends . . . until tomorrow!
Sleep. Sleep. Sleep. Yawn. Stretch. OK, sunrise! GOOD MORNING Girlfriends! Up and at’em, we have places to go and people to see!
XOXOX XOXOXO
Here we go again! William Morris’s house! You’re going to love it! There is so much to show you! We haven’t even had time to give you the gorgeous garden at Rosemary Verey’s house! Or the beautiful Churchyard next to the Bibury Court, or King Richard III’s castle, and so much more . . . James Herriot’s neighborhood in Yorkshire . . . But we will …. I can always post more England from Martha’s Vineyard! Because very soon . . .
. . . in about five more days (seems impossible), we’ll be doing this in reverse! Back on the Queen Mary 2, sailing out of Southampton, across the Atlantic Ocean, following in the footsteps of my English forbearers almost 400 years ago, but in a lot better accommodations, for HOME — we’ll be toasting the Statue of Liberty with orange juice since it will be about 6 am when we arrive in New York! We leave on the 24th of June, arrive home July 1. Not in any hurry, going to enjoy every moment of the time left here. ♥
Does everyone still have their links to the ship’s bridge (one of the Girlfriends wrote last night to say the Queen Mary had just left New York, on its way to pick us up!) and the Verrazano Bridge (I’m pretty sure this the right one) so you can watch us sail into the harbor? (Except most of you will probably be asleep!) Five more days of lambs to go, five more days of big English sky. XOXO
How utterly, simply, lovely. I love this post!
So Happy you do Connie! … Everyone have a nice day, I’ll be back later to see how you’re all doing!
P.S. I am still stitching away on the applique border of the quilt I call “Susan’s Log Cabin” made with ONLY Susan Branch designed fabric collections, mostly TEA PARTY. It is coming along nicely, I love love love it, and SOMEDAY it will be a completed quilt. After piecing it, I decided I really wanted to add the border. I am doing the applique by hand so it’s slower than by machine but nicer. One side is completed and I’m working on side 2. I’m SO excited about this project! I adore the fabric and can’t wait until it’s a quilt! Patience, Connie……patience……..
By hand, it will be so special Connie!
Oh, Susan! We stopped at the Catherine Wheel one cold evening nearly 20 years ago for a drink and something to eat. There was a roaring fire and two great big dogs laid out in the middle of the floor. None of the other patrons thought a thing of it–just stepped over them–and so did we! Be sure to go to Fairford churchyard to see the grave of Tiddles, the church cat.
That sounds fun!
Hah !! … Simply Amazing !! ..Thank you for bringing so much magicality to the table !! Seems to me, dear Susan, is that you need some little lambs around you when you get back to M.V…….with love.. P.S. ….’ love the stone and rock work !!
P.P.S. ….”love the photo of you and that enormous old oak tree you posted on twitter….brings back memories of the giant redwoods in N.California !!..thanks again..
XOXO….Every post is awesome, Susan, but this one does ‘ take the cake ‘ ! The beautiful flowers and trees all in bloom and the OOH LA LA accommodations with the river out back an lambies out front saying sweet baaahs! We are spoiled.
( sorry, I was with the girls who jumped on the bed (just once!) while you and Joe were running around high fiving!)
Do you suppose the staff know who you are? They are a fun bunch aren’t they!
It is going to be verry hard to leave this scene, but the sun is shining today..hoooray!
Harney and Sons Hot Cinnamon Spice Tea is taking me to WilliamMorris today. How did we do?
This has been so much fun, wish we could stay longer.there has so many great adventures. Loved every minute and can’t wait for the next post.thanks for bringing us along
Pat
Oh, Susan, what a dreamy place to be winding down your trip! You ARE living like your room’s namesake! Bibury is a charming little town. I LOVE your lambie pictures! I never got any near as sweet as yours! I definitely think you SHOULD draw one in a little empire-waist frock with rickrack for the book….would be BRILLIANT of you!!! 🙂
I started painting a lamb this morning, and did put an apron on her!
Yay!!!! I know you’ll think of a very clever name for her! 🙂
I can’t tell you now EXCITED I am about this book! And I know all the FOSB are equally as excited! I was in the bookstore the other day and I thought how much I’d LOVE to see a stack of that book sitting in the shelf!
I knew it! I knew it! Can’t wait to see the cute, aproned lamb in your new book!
Yay! Will she have a name?
hmmm. Have to think about that Lammbie Pie Cuddle Bunch? Or something!
Love the thought of a little lambie in an apron!! So sweet! I can’t wait for the book!!!
Oh my, what fun!!! We’ll all help you, shall we??? 😉 LOL!!!
Beatrix:)
Have a contest! Who can come up with the best name for the little lamb in an apron? That would be fun (and it doesn’t take much to make your girlfriends happy).
Oh my my my…just when you think it can’t get any better it does!!!
Susan …I promise …I will get to Bibury Court and drink in heaven on earth!!
I so know how wonderful all this must be!!
Thanks for giving us all a very clear vision and expectation to focus and meditate on!!
I loved this post and I can’t get enough of England!!
BTW…Ive not seen the movie…will rent it…and dream that Colin Firth is speaking to me. He is dreamy isn’t he??
xoxox
sweet pea
!!! Yes, he is!!:-)
He is kinda like hit-me-over-the-head dreamy!! : } ….the world seems
to be spinning just a little bit…..and it’s getting just a little bit fuzzy……..
Love him too! So… Lambs or Colin? Sorry….I couldn’t
resist! But, whatever makes you the happiest!!! Happy Day!
Oh Susan…I love (to be able to walk with you) our outings though the fields of lambs, across the bridges, to see those georgious flowers everywhere! I am squealing…I am laughing…I jut can’t help myself…this trip is amazing! Then back to that wonderful old/new hotel! It had the ambience of the original…but with all the amenities of today!! You found just the right place for all of us to stay! It’s hard to believe it’s almost over….however to get back to Jack & Kitty will be orth coming home to!!
Blessings,
Gert
Are you familiar with the plant Lamb’s Ear? I think you absolutely MUST have some in your garden…..it will be a wonderful reminder of your English sojourn.
I am, love the soft little thing, love the color too!
Mine has been blooming like crazy this year (never even knew it did that!) and the bees are just loving it all over! It does seem to have taken off – what and when is the best time to trim it back?
So enjoying your blog Susan! What a gorgeous place to stay! It has been cooler and rainier here in CT this month. Can’t believe how often I need a sweater! But I imagine by the time you are back, summer will be in full swing and HOT. That’s how it always goes in New England, I suppose! LOL
Karen, I just cut out the parts that look bad whenever it needs it. It’s indestructible. Mine has jumped it’s bed and landed several feet away in a gravel path or crack in the sidewalk. You could say my Lamb’s Ear gambols in my garden! 🙂
I love Lambs Ears..yes they are soooo soft! We all should have them in our gardens!
You have got to be kidding!!! How English can you get??? The stone everything is amazing!! And like in Funny Farm, did someone say, “Cue the swan!” I can’t hardly believe that stone fence….now that’s made to last. I don’t know if I could leave that place…..that’d have to make me leave kicking and dragging!! Lucky, lucky you two.
What an amazing trip. I love the lambs and the hotel looks wonderful. So happy you took all of us along . This has been such a real treat to see the things I will never be able to see. Thank you for the trip. Enjoy the next 5 days .
You’re living the dream – my dream! The Cotswolds is on my bucket list. I’ve spent time in London and Bath, but never made it any farther than that in England. Driving on the other side seems a little scary, but we must be brave. My husband Bob drove in Ireland and said shifting with his left hand was the hard part. Does Joe feel the same? I was thinking how hard it’s going to be for you to leave that beautiful country, but then remembered what a beautiful home and life you have to go home to. Not to mention the kitties. Did you hear they’re going to make a third Bridget Jones? Oh rambling I know, but you’ve given us so much to see and think about. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Are you knitting all the treasures of your trip into a shawl or some such? I see the weather must be on the coolish side with sweaters on and fires in the fireplace. Pretty lovely if you ask me. I am sure you had planned for all eventualities with the weather. The lambs are so precious. It seems like we are truly getting the flavors of the countryside of England…each area with its own charm. Delightful! Do savor the next days and we will, too. I have enjoyed this so much…every little thing you have seen and done has been perfectly lovely. Do you get to visit with the townspeople some? I am sure you do. Have a great day!
Hi Susan… I have so enjoyed this trip, if I never get to England this is the next best thing! It is just so beautiful. I just spent the weekend up at the Mount Washington Hotel, in Bretton Woods, NH. and I have to say it was an elegant grand lady…they just don’t make hotels like that any more. It’s a place you and Joe must visit, you won’t be disappointed. Looking forward for you coming home to Martha Vineyard too, but this has been a grand trip for sure! -East Longmeadow, Ma.
Talk about divine…I don’t know how you ever left your hotel!!!…I can’t believe it is almost time for you to depart jolly old England…my the time did absolutely fly by…enjoy every single minute…but you do have your kitties to look forward to…xoxo…
Magical!
This has been so wonderful to share this trip with you. I cannot believe it is time for you to come home. Time flew and I do hope you did everything you wanted to. Will be following you home……..
Hi Susan! This is a fairytale. I don’t want the story to end!!! xoxo Debbie
Love the post, thanks! So I noticed with delight that in the “tea box” in your room they had a little pod of “milk,” not cream. Yay! My father’s family is from Scotland, and we always drank our tea with milk, never ever cream. 🙂
Oh my goodness, that post just kept getting better and better. This has been the most amazing trip I have ever “not” taken!! Love the sweet lambs. Maybe since a lamb could never naturally stand on its hind legs, Beatrix thought it couldn’t have a “human” characteristics? I don’t know, just a thought. Love your sweater, by the way, you look lovely in your colours! xoxo Joy
My face aches from smiling while reading your blog. Thanks again and again.
Good Day to you both… I love the extra sights we can click on and see even more of England. So far England has the BEST kitchens I have ever seen.
Yes, little lambs nursing and their tails wagging are just cute as can be, just darling!!
This room is just the best! Love the tea set up area. Doesn’t get any better then this. Keep having fun and more adventures, that is if you can get out of your room…LOL… I would have to have a full day just in that room to relax. Think I’ll go and make a cup of English Breakfast Tea….
Good morning~
Two words ” Simplicity & Luxury”!!
You lucky, lucky girl~Thanks for sharing with us!
Lynn~
I felt like I was there with you. Oh, this has been such a treat for me. I have loved every minute…Balisha
The little lambies nursing their moms with the tails wagging is soooo cute! It’s a happy wag for sure! Susan and Joe, your hotel is so amazing—you so deserve it. Enjoy your last few days in England and know you have made so many girlfriends happy that you have taken us along! xoxo♥
For a moment ( a long one ! ) I thought your secret was that you had bought a house there !!
I am enjoying re living England through your eyes and love that you think it is handmade.
Isn’t it? Looks handmade to me! Look at the Yorkshire Dales, totally handmade up there!!! 🙂
I know ! All those lovely stones cosily knitted together to form a wonderful wall or house. All the patchwork fields stitched together to make the landscape…
I am just speechless ! How utterly breath taking, my heart was beating just as fast as yours. This was the most beautiful , charming blog ever, everyone is! Thank-you sweet Lady and Gentleman! OoooooxxxxxxxxxxoooooooX
So lovely! Thank you so much – I’m thinking Wow!!! Now reading The Tale of Holly How – and will be watching the Miss Potter movie later today!
Dear Sue,
Another pin in my map of places to visit … I had pinned Cirencester and have now pinned Bibury. As a huge fan of lichen (it signifies good air quality, by the way!), the photos of the lichen covered stone walls made me swoon. And, what an opportunity for you — you can take up where Beatrix left off — painting adorable lambs in aprons. I think you must be soulmates with Beatrix or possibly you were her in that life! There’s an exciting thought.
xoxo, Priscilla
Haven’t got a clue as to why Beatrix Potter didn’t do sheep or lambs but I wonder if we know anybody who could do a sheep in a “capped sleeve, empire waist apron with rick-rack on the hem”? Add a group of lambs in school clothes, ready for the day.
The tour has been wonderful. You and Joe are the perfect travel guides. Every post brings us right along with you and your joy in what you are doing.
Many thanks.
What an amazing blog and SO MUCH HISTORY….Susan, how in the world are you/Joe ever going to “decompress” once you return home to the States?? You look wonderful and if your mind was a computer it would be by this time….overloaded and short circuit or worse yet capoot!! So nice of you to show us the fields with lambs (some of the moms with shaggy wool need a makeover don’t you think)?? do you think Beatrix didn’t paint lambs because you know in history sheep have a reputation for being “dirty, dumb, animals” who would follow one another off of a cliff?? I for one poo on that description I think they are adorable wagging tails and all!! If you ever get a lamb please name it “Holly Hobbie” I think that sounds adorable? Your room is a dream and you both deserve only the best….thank you for the tour.
Susan!!! What a fabulous post!!!! Just like all the rest. I MUST go to England. It’s going to be on my “Bouquet” list. I call it Bouquet since that is how Hyacinth pronounces “Bucket” on “Keeping Up Appearances” – I love that show, sounds so much more civilised. You laugh the entire half an hour! I’m a Brit-o-phile for sure! Thanks for paving the path for those of us yet to travel it. You look smashing in your “colors” and your scarf looks precious. Hugs and Hugs and more squishy hugs for starting out my day with a huge smile, tear in my eye and a validation for the longing of this trip. Fabulous! As are you! xoox, Jeanette
I love that show! Hyacinth is such a riot!
No matter how much she tries to be ” high class” her disfunctional middle class family keeps her in the ” lower classes” ~ I mean that in a good ~ normal~ disfunctional way!
Lynn~
Yes Susan………..you are speaking more like the English………noticed the word “Brilliant” which all my cousins in Ireland say too. Loved the little lambs with the wagging tails………..how very sweet and I never knew that so I’ve learned something new. The Bibury Court Hotel was wonderful……….I know you absolutely loved it…………what a memory! Didn’t see a drain the shower but I know somehow there must be one there so the water isn’t all over the floor!
Enjoy every minute you have left there. I couldn’t stay away from my home that long……I need to have my favorite things around me……30 days is about my max and then I have to get back to the good old U.S.A. I’m wondering if you think you could ever live there permanently? XX00 Gail Buss
Hi Susan, Loved your videos today and those lambs are precious!! You are doing such a wonderful job of taking us along on your journey!! thank you. Be blessed in your last lovely days there!
Irene
Welp – ya did it again ! Brought out the living , breathing essence of where you are and what it is !
An almost palpable presentation–look at that first picture of the mama and her
baby ……you can see her winking and smiling , as if to say ,” take all the pictures you want !
we get to live here , full time .” And did you notice the size of those stones they laid out
to make the walk for that bridge ? A horizontal “Stonehenge” –amazing workmanship everywhere ….placed in an absolute setting to grace the total …..surroundings of overwhelming beauty wherever you are , or look , both inside any given building , or outside at any location you find — thank you Sue for making this happening , come alive to all of us earthlings — simply great , we love it ! Dad
us earthbound people ! It’s just great!
I knew you’d enjoy the workmanship!!! xxoxoo
Hi Mr. Jack & fellow earthling…… 🙂
It’s all pretty wonderful isn’t it? Do you think all of this beautifulness
is going to our heads…..cuz I thought the lambs were winking, smiling,
and talking too! Maybe, Susan’s happy heart and the way she see’s the world just makes Everything seem more real !!! It has been pretty special, huh? XoXDawn
Ahhhhhhh, bless your sweet heart—I adore these posts. I read them over and over again–your journal/diary/sketchbook of this trip will be a treasure! Enjoy your last few days in England and your crossing back to America. You look just radiant, by the way 🙂 !
I am just smiling, smiling, smiling as I read this post – so much fun and what a delight it is to be reading about your trip – so glad you are taking us along and sharing all the wonderful sights and sounds of England.
Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous… and may I say… gorgeous!~!! Who wouldn’t squeal and jump on the bed!!! I think even King James might have as well!! LOL… All you need do now is get a little Jane Austen attire and take a stroll down a path with Joe and then my dream would be fulfilled of being transported back in time!! Of course, I probably would be more of the scullery mail persuasion but no matter!! Thanks so much for taking us away to dreamland with you!!! Let’s have a happy last week before heading back across the pond!!! Thanks sooo much!!
I had just decided to get a cup of tea, but first to skip to your blog. Wasn’t I surprised to have you suggest that I go and get my tea right then. So I did! I loved the blog, of course. The lambs are so great and the hotel, but don’t even get me started on that. Then you told us about the pub, the Catherine Wheel. I couldn’t believe it. I have made a Catherine Wheel! It is a button one makes with a small wooden ring wrapped with threads. Fun morning. We’ll be home just in time for the 4th! Looking forward to the trip home.
What an awesome trip you, and Joe are having Sue!~~ We just got home from a 10 day trip ourselves, but it was nothing like your amazing trip to England! 🙂 I am so happy to see all the wonderful things you are seeing, and I’m enjoying the memories you are making, right along with you! Your room at Bibury Court is amazing…oh my goodness, you lucky lady!! Enjoy every minute with the time you have left, as I know you will…..You deserve the BEST!! xoxo
I’ve been enjoying your trip! I’ll never have the means to go and it’s been delightful to see the countryside. Thank you for bringing it to life.
I think YOU should be painting the lambs, “capped-sleeved, empire-waist apron with rick rack on the hem.”
Where are the cats? Please take a picture of one. I loved all the little lambs and sheep.
This post is an absolute DELIGHT!!! I want to read it again and again! ENJOY the rest of your time… I wish I could write something clever in response 😉
Before I forget… Here is another GREAT panorama web cam of the NY harbor.
http://www.earthcam.com/usa/newyork/statueofliberty/?cam=liberty_ellisisland
After watching you sail under the Verrazano bridge we can switch to this one and watch you come in!
Georgie
Yardville, NJ
hello susan, oops busted that was my tea kettle you heard…sorry about that. and i think someone went swimming in the river, you may want to take a headcount of all us to be sure she got back okay!!! oh my look at the little lambs, how cute and adorable. what a beautiful place to stay and explore, very comfy and cozy. okay girlfriends lets go easy on the toasted scones and jam, we all fit into that trunk for the trip home…remember???? what a wonderful trip this has been, thank you susan for letting us all tag along. hugs……. 🙂
oops meant we all have to fit in that trunk for the voyage home…blushes!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Susan–
I am loving your Cotswold adventures (and ALL of England)!! All those wonderful stone cottages and cute lambs in the fields, beautiful gardens, and Bibury Court. Does it get any better than this? I love that chair you are sitting in at Bibury Court while knitting!
Thank you for taking us along. I have so enjoyed this. Can’t wait for your DIARY/BOOK to come out (sign me up for a copy!). Enjoy the remainder of your trip. I look forward to your next post.
Christine
Oh you two are having such a wonderful trip and I think you have made our decision as to where to go for our anniversary next year! we also want to go to Scotland and maybe even see a bit of Wales. Happy sailing my dear!
I’m so glad I took your suggestion and made some green tea with peach to sit and enjoy our trip together. Mindblowingly beautiful! I’m entranced with the stone fences; I can just picture them being put together – the work that went into it. Being from California and not much rain, the greenery almost hurts the eyes -its so luscious…love it! Just green, green, green everywhere. Sigh! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for making this journey possible for all the girlfriends.
Thank you for this awesome opportunity to travel with you! Your perspective is amazing! I have loved every single word you’ve written, picture and video you’ve posted….saying thank you just isn’t enough!
Judy
Oh my…you’re bringing back such sweet memories for me, having been at Bibury Court just a few weeks ago….(we have very similar photos and I, too, have dozens and dozens of those adorable lambs!) I love that long walk past Court Farm…the lambs and sheep were in the field on the right when we were there….enjoy! Ruthanne
Now the Cotswolds will be even richer with your happy and enthusiastic self bringing goodwill to people and animals alike. This post made my eyes sting a bit as I have been there with mom and sis; a beloved trip over for a wedding that turned into a semi grand tour. Thank you for a gorgeous glimpse of lamb season and the ‘Grand Hotel’ . These posts are amazing as I sometimes for a sec really feel I am there. Well done, you (That’s Bridget Jones speak).
xx
Julie
Dear Susan
You have completely taken my breath away. Just lovely and magical.
Thank You
Dolores
What a hotel! Nice way to end your trip. And those little lambs!! I felt sorry for the little ones who were thirsty but Mom kept walking away. Your little lamb in an apron sounds adorable and can’t wait to see it in your book.
Is it really almost time to go??? Oohhh. I am having such a good time. Oh well. This has been super and there are still places to go and a boat ride to do!
You both are such good company and enjoy the same things we all do. Thank you again for bringing us along.
xoxo Pam
Wonderful, wonderful post!!! Thanks so much for taking, so much of your precious travel time, to share all of this with us!!! You are such a sweet and talented person. Enjoy your remaining time in England!!! Thanks again, Kim D., Dublin, OH
Susan ~ Loved our little tour today. So beautiful. There is a mystery story by Patricia Wentworth entitled The Catherine-Wheel. It is about an “eerie old inn” and now I must re-read it knowing there is a real (un-eerie) Catherine Wheel. Thank you for taking us with you on this truly wonderful adventure to the heart of the English countryside.
Oh … my … STARS!! What a beautiful, fun, abundantly delightful posting! Thank you so very much for sharing your eyes and ears and voice and joie de vivre throughout your memorable visit to England. It makes for much happy! As Tina Fey would say, “I want to go to there!” (And, as always, YOU look as darling as can be!) xoxoxo
Good Evening Sweet Sue…I Adore The Bibury Hotel…It’s Gorgeous!…I Love All Your Lambies….so Sweet..I wonder Why Beatrix Potter did Not Tell any Stories of all The Little Lambies…But Now You Can! 🙂 I Have Savored Each Blog & You Have Made All os Us Feel Like We have Been Traveling with You & Joe On this Beyond Magical Adventure…Thank You Sweetest Sue…for Everything! Savor these Last Days…Then Relax & Have a Blast Back on The Queen Mary 2….I’ll Raise My Champagne Glass & Toast to You & England & Back on The Ship…& then Welcome Home on July 1st! (Your Kitties will Be Beyond Happy to See Mommy & Daddy) Meowwwwwwwww Purrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr Yay! Home again Home again Jiggity~Jig! (Then Out West…Right?) Wow! Safe Journey Dearest Friends! xoxo Poof!✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.
To my most favorite “normal” person in the whole wide world . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Susan, this post is perfectly wonderful, such a treat !!! When I first read the
words, “STAYING HERE” ….my heart stopped for a minute…I thought ‘Your’
“STAYING HERE” meant that you were STAYING THERE….in England !!!
And……when I heard you say, “the tails, the tails are the best!” I could feel
your smile in those words….”the happiest!” I love how the lambs seem to be
smiling too….they look like happy faces to me! I wonder if the Mama lamb was
explaining to her baby lamb …..”Look honey…see that lady? That is what we
call a “normal” person and doesn’t she look happy?” La la lala……la dee doe……
“the happiest!” And Susan….I believe…..you did it !!!!! You put into words what gives the ‘Beauty of England’ it’s heart……. “it’s almost entirely handmade!”
It wears its heart on it’s sleeve! It’s giving back what brought it to Life……
Love! But only for those who take the Time to stop and appreciate it all !!!
And sweetest Sue, you not only appreciate it….. you share it ……with those who take the Time to stop.
“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength
that will endure as long as life lasts.” Rachel Louise Carson
And, to me, they will always be the “happiest!” XoXDawn
Wow. Just Wow. I’m breathless! Your posts are the highlight of my day — Thank You again and again and again for taking us along, Susan!!
The hotel staff were as adorable as the lambs in the field. Just when I think you can’t top what you have already shown us you do. That hotel is absolutely amazing and as far as Colin Firth goes he is the quintessential Mr. Darcy.
Oh gosh Susan!! This trip may just be my favorite so far. But there have been so many wonderful adventures , it is truly hard to select a favorite. All I can say is a HUGE thanks to you and Joe for allowing us to all cram in the back seat and share this incredible visit with you!! There is simply not enough thanks possible. The chorus of us girlfriends squeeling with excitement and delight around every turn must have been deafening at times!! But even as we know the time is drawing to an end, we all know that the memories we all share will soon appear in your artwork and books. Will this trip become a book that we all can purchase as a keepsake for this once in a lifetime adventure?? Maybe?? Maybe??? Whatever you do will be wonderful! Till next posting… Cherrio!
What a beautiful post. I have soooo loved going on this trip with everyone. Wish it didn’t have to end.
* Hello Barbara * * June 20…Thursday evening @ about 10:30 PM *
I saw your post to Susan (6/19), Barbara, and I just had to tell you it was a very sweet thing to say…that you so loved going on Susan and Joe’s trip with everyone. I have thought and felt that too. Susan has sort of gatherered us all in a wonderful circle of friendship, hasn’t she?
I, too, wish this trip would not be over yet! Susan’s touring tales, photos and videos have been so enchanting.
I hope you find and read this little reply to your post.
* from, Dorothy Ann on Cougar Mountain, Washington *
I’m convinced they named the pub in Bibury just for all of your Kathy girlfriends. How perfect! Have you ever counted how many of your girlfriends are named Kathy, Cathy, Kathryn, Katherine etc, etc? Can’t imagine why I noticed but I have!!
Your room is definitely dream like. No wonder you have to ask “Where am I?” when you wake. What a trip!! We girlfriends could ask for nothing more. Thank you so much for sharing. Love, Kathy from Melbourne, FL
Susan, I laughed out loud at the lambs tails wagging! What fun! I do hope to see a lamb in your journal with a capped-sleeved empire waist apron with rick rack on the hem. Sounds adorable. Everything about this post is perfect (as they all have been!) –the hotel is beautiful and I love the stone bridge. Hard to believe that we only have five more days before heading home. Enjoy these next precious days there.
Susan,
What a trip! Thanks for taking us along with you. Now I want to take my own trip there — it looks so wonderful. How will be able to leave it all?
Well, I just noticed a typo! I meant “how will you be able to leave it all?” Sorry– typing too fast for my brain!
You are not really coming back, are you? I don’t think I would. Girl Kitty and Jack will just have to wing-it to England. Think how they would love it there! Way out in the country in some wonderful stone cottage. Jack would be stalking sheep in the meadow. England is truely a fantasy land! Not sure I would have ever left Merry Ole England in search of the new world. What were my ancestors thinking? Some day, some day I must get there. But until then, I will read and re-read these posts and wait for The England Diary.
Oh Susan! all i could do was mutter…..oh my gosh!!!!! oh my ggggggosh! Oh MY GOSH!!!!!!! I am just in a daze from all the beauty….and i too am so in love with those little precious lambs and their adorable mommies!!!!! Oh what beauty…it’s just so hard to find the words for it all……Thank you dear Susan!!!!
Oh my! It is a comfort to know these quaint and wonderful places still exist. I adore grand old cozy hotels and knitting, so your photo in the Drawing Room makes me especially happy. You look happy too!
Oh so lovely to see your pics and relive our stay in Bibury. We stayed at the Swan but had my birthday dinner at Bibury Court and also stopped there on a long walk for tea and scones. I love the video of the lambs! We just returned from The Lake District and the lambs were everywhere. I must have a jillion photos of them. I love them as much as you do! So many pretty places in the Cotswolds…so glad you got to be there. I will stay at Bibury Court when I go back….quite charming. Can’t wait to see James Herriot’s haunts…I loved his books and the PBS series.
J’sPS :~) anyway– I thought your “secret”——-was all about whatever this next giveaway drawing is going to be — providing you are able to get it together ……? Were you talking about a like grand prize you wanted to get, at the end of this expedition into the glories and beauty of England? Maybe I misunderstood — is it time for my nap?
I am so completely homesick, I can’t stand it!
xo
Jayne ~
For the longest time as a child, that pigeon noise scared me 🙂 I once saw what I thought was a headless pigeon on a building, and ever after that, I thought it was ghosts who made the noise! Luckily, when I was about 8, my teacher started ‘the country club’ at my school, and I learned to recognise birds and plants etc. and I was no longer scared 🙂
Love the little lambs- I have always enjoyed watching them… especially when they jump all over the place! Thanks for giving me some views of home!
What kind of camera are you shooting with? The pics are GREAT! Clear as crystal!
Treese
OMG! Have I just died and gone to Heaven? A couple of posts back, I asked if it could get any better? Well, who knew? I had to take a break midway through today’s post ‘cuz I was getting a case of the vapors. My little heart was about to leap out of my chest. Had a bisquit and a cup of tea and now I’m back. I loved everything we did and saw today, especially the hardware on those windows! I’m so glad I let you plan the itinerary for our (your) trip.
Thank you Susan Branch!
Kathy in California
Definitely Camelot! Can you just imagine that there are/were people who live in “digs” like this all of the time??? Hard for me to imagine…and it all looks so beautiful and peaceful. Incidentally, another series you all should see, if you haven’t, is “Flambards”. It was on Masterpiece Theatre, I think, in about 1978-79. We just checked it out of the library and I’m sure it must be available on Netflix. Set in England and the scenery is gorgeous…Hard to believe it is almost time for you two to go home but time flies! You’ve had (and still are having) a wonderful vacation. It will be fun to hear how Jack and Girl Kitty react when you first return home. 🙂
p.s. Dawn, read my response to your comment under Father’s Day… 🙂
How delightful is this! What a surprise this morning! I believe the Bibury Hotel where you are staying was featured in an episode of As Time Goes By, with the lovely Judi Dench and Geoffry Palmer. (Alas, Jean and Lionel did not have as much fun there as you and Joe are having.) And all those wonderful sheep and lambs inspired me to put on Leon Fleisher’s CD, Two Hands, and listen to his wonderful piano version of Sheep May Safely Graze. What a lovely country! You’ve certainly made the most of your visit. May the rest of your stay be superb and may you have a lovely voyage home.
susan, you look HAPPY AS A CLAM on that couch, knitting. so cute.
So loving reading about your trip and inspired to plan one of my own one of these days!
What I really love about this story in particular is that with all your success, Susan, you truly “sound” like a girlfriend – running around the hotel room saying “look at this…and this!” I love it! You are real and down to earth, which of course is what makes you so wildly popular with the rest of us girlfriends! XOXO
Kristina
Checking into your travel blog today seems like the ULTIMATE vicarious experience. It is a real joy to have morning coffee and let the mind wander to wherever your charming videos lead. Just now on the third reviewing I fixated on the lovely upholstery behind you on the sofa (is that what it’s called in England) where you are knitting. Perfect for the place. Bibury Court. I wonder what the Romans sat on in their days in the area. Thank you for letting me see some of England. I feel so much better about not getting there in person. :-).
Lovely, just lovely…..the lambs, the walk, the hotel! 😉
How wonderful!!! I can’t say it enough!! England is Heaven On Earth!!! Sooooo thrilled to get this blog today!!
You simply MUST watch “Far From the Madding Crowd”!! I guarantee you will LOVE it!!!
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
Am delighted for us all that you have been able to have this wonderful adventure and have taken us along.
Did you get the name of the yellow/orange plant on the wall that you inquired about a while back? (Have been a bit out of touch.) Anyway, it’s a wallflower, in case no one let you know.
Savor every last moment with your Joe in the country of “green and lovely hills” and, of course, lambs!
Camelot is my very favorite movie! I am singing the song as I write! You are truly in Camelot staying in that luxurious hotel! I love your room and everything about the hotel! I would never want to leave.
Okay Susan, I can hardly stand this-
your photos of Bibury had me at “Hello”.
Willam Morris, a man impeccable taste & talent
could never lead one wrong,
Bibury is bleeding gorgeous-
beautiful, beautiful, beautiful !
I have been wrestling with some very over zealous weeds this morning,
on an incredibly warm day,
however, I think I’ve still have my wits about me
and not suffering from a heat stroke
but I swear, in your last video of the Bibury Court
at about 25-32 seconds into the clip,
there is a sweet, lovely, tender face of female
in the shrubbery.
She is right next to the bottom ground floor window,
it’s the half, right side of her face, coyly, peeking out at you,
as you filmed-
an image of her right eye, nose and perfectly-pointed kissy, doll lips.
Her lips are right in line with the bottom ledge of the window,
right above the inside edge of the first ground shrub
and her eye is almost in line with the top of the window.
Pause the video at 25 seconds,
a small magnifying glass will bring her features into focus
but even with the naked eye, she’s visible.
She popped out, instantly on the first viewing-
another “hidden” Bribury beauty…
it’s as if she was waiting just for you.
She sure is there! I didn’t notice “her” until I went back after you made mention of the “face.” That little nymph is probably waiting for midsummer’s eve to make a full appearance. More evidence that you can find/create a good story from just about any situation. Nice to know the flora and fauna are smiling and in on the joke.
Susan, thanks for the grand adventure! It’s so exciting to be along with you.
Becky,
Glad you spied the beautiful face, too.
So intrigued with her-
she has the fragile tenderness of a child & pretty softness of a young lady.
If you or any of the other girlfriends have never read the book below,
you need to treat yourself to one of the most amazing stories ever.
I bought the book, years ago, on a whim because I loved the beautiful, Arthur Rackham-like
illustration on the cover.
I never heard of the author before.
I sat down & read it, outside on a beautiful day & never moved,
until I finished the book.
It will change your life, forever….or make it that much better.
You will never mow down a fungi mushroom in your yard
or dismiss a face or voice, appearing or echoing from the hedgerow.
It is all true, based on her life and her belief in nature & all good, magical things-
Fairies, Mermaids, Gnomes, elemental beings living in hedgerows & shrubs.
It will send you heart & spirit soaring.
I think it should be required reading for all ages, all people.
Doreen Virtue’s life & purpose is amazing, she points out that “Virtue” IS her real name.
Nothing could be more perfect !
After reading it some years ago, I researched & read her other books-
they are ALL mindbenders
but Healing with Fairies” is my absolute favorite.
It’s an oversize paperback, you will read it in a couple hours
and you will want to read it, again & again.
I love books of all kinds, classic & contemporary,
antique & new
but I have to say this oversized paperback is one of my very favorites.
It makes my heart purr, every time I catch a glimpse of it, in the bookcase.
You can find it at bookstores, online, Amazon, Ebay or direct through Hay House Publishers.
It is my favorite gift to give to special people or strangers.
I like to have extra copies, just to purposely leave behind at a rented cottage,
airport, restaurant, hospital or wherever,
knowing it will inspire, enlighten & move another
to truly believe in the unbelievable.
The eyes & heart are a two-way street.
One has to “see it…to believe it”
but also, “believe it…to see it”.
Virtue’s book & life proves ANYTHING is possible !
The book- “Healing with the Fairies”:
http://www.hayhouse.com/details.php?id=88
Author answers questions regarding Fairies:
http://www.healyourlife.com/author-doreen-virtue/2011/07/lifeshelp/intuitive-guidance/meet-the-fairies
You are so funny! I love reading of your delight in things that are normal to we who live in UK – it makes me look at them anew. Just home from a visit to Shugborough Hall, home of the late Lord Lichfield (a cousin of the Queen) You would have loved it there.
How could your blog posts get even more beautiful! I have enjoyed them so very much! I have never seen such beauty in one blog post. Thank you so much for taking us all along with you.
♥
Bless your little hamster heart for sharing your wonderful trip with us! Those lambs are soooo sweet. Bet you’re tempted to smuggle a few home with you! I know I would. You’ll have to teach Jack and Girl Kitty to say ‘baaaaaaaah’ instead of ‘meow’ when you get home. Hope Petey the sailor as behaving himself. Guess he knows he better if he doesn’t want to get left behind! Then he would have to join the Royal Navy! Enjoy the rest of your stay!
OK! That’s it! I’m not going back. You’ll just have to leave me here in Bilbury. I’ll write you. XXOOXX
Thank you, Susan. I am grateful… Loved the baby lambies wagging their tails as they nursed!
Susan (Woodland Park, CO)
Ditto what everyone else is saying above! I love how you take us around to see everything and how descriptive you are. I live in Idaho in the high desert so it is very refreshing to see such lush greenness in your pictures and videos. But, I’ll tell ya, you’re making me want to go out and build a rock wall in my yard! 🙂
Susan,
You outdid yourself today. The whole post, with wonderful pictures, was fabulous! Please promise to show James Herriott country sometime. Thank you for taking us on this trip. I look forward every day to your blog.
OH!!!!! This must be what Heaven looks like!!! Breathtakingly beautiful. I love the lambies scattered in the grassy field looking like soft, fuzzy boulders. Your hotel is amazing!!!! And the cottages, the river, the gardens, even the shower…bliss!! Don’t go looking for me on the Queen Mary when you and all of the girlfriends leave because I might just stay behind and live in Bibury forever. Thanks so much for sharing, Susan! And so glad you are having such a wondrous, serendipitous (had to spell-check that one) holiday!!! ♥ ♥ ♥
* Hi Heidi Rose from Issaquah, Washington * June 20…Wednesday
Just a note to say hi. Look for my Sunday 6/17 reply to your post to me, on Susan’s “Yorkshire Dales” Blog page.
Yes, it’s not easy to leave Bibury, as well as Beatrix Potter’s beautiful Hill Top Farm and all of the enchanting places Susan has taken us to.
*from, Dorothy Ann, your neighbor, on Cougar Mountain, Washington *
Oh Susan, what a lovely post. I so enjoyed our walk up the riverside. The lames are so cute. I think you should paint little lambs with aprons on…what a cute idea. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful fun filled day with us. I tried not to drip the juice from my burger on the sofa in front of the fire and those fries were to die for…I must admit…I got a little carried away and must confess…I did some jumping on the bed while we were all giggling at how wonderful our room was. What a great experience. Take in every moment and make a memory of it. Close you eyes, smell the scent of the air, listen to the sounds around you and allow your heart to be happy as you come to the end of your wonderful trip. You still have five lambie days to go so have fun and lets skip down that path next to the river tomorrow and pick some wild flowers. FOSB 4~Ever! ~ Doreen ~ xoxo
Oh Susan, I can hardly stand it anymore. The whole time you’ve been gone I’ve just been quietly taking it all in and enjoying the view but now I have to say it… I’m a little jealous. Everything is so beautiful…better than I even imagined. I pray I will get there too, will one of these days.
Also, my son Adam is deployed right now so my screen saver is my American flag flying in support, but once he’s home, I think I may have to steal the picture of the cottage with the flower garden in front. I hope that’s ok. Maybe we can blame it on the foxgloves:)
Enjoy the rest of your journey and thanks so much for taking all the girlfriends along. You’re the best!
Mimosas, Susan, to celebrate your arrival! I am so Over The Moon Happy for you and Joe! It’s fabulous y’all were able to take this trip and you both are so wonderful to take us along. Dare I say it? I am gobsmacked by this post!
If I didn’t know any better I would ask…”Are we in heaven ?”
Oh yes we are!
…and it’s not even in Iowa! Who’da thunk it?
Susan … Thank you so much for posting your trip. I’ve always known I should’ve been born in England! I do agree with you about the difference between the US and Britain. Everything there was made by hand and they preserve, and still use, all of those buildings. I would love someday to go to Britain and just lay my hands on buildings which are over 1000 yrs. old. I am thoroughly enjoying your visit and intently study every picture … and sigh. I appreciate the time you give us while documenting everything and you are a lovely tour guide! It’s obvious you and hubby are having a wonderful time, but it will also be good to get home. 😉
******Thank you Chris, and everyone! *****I can’t use the computer much today as I am sort of in the way where I am, but I just wanted to say how much I’m loving everyone’s comments….just decided on the menu for the “Mrs. Lambie Pie Cuddle Bunch Pub” — mostly wildflowers of course, windfall apple crumble, buttercup sauce on stitchwort pie, and field dumplings in pear cider! Have a wonderful day!!!
Perfect! Sounds wonderful! Mrs. Lambie Pie Cuddle Bunch and friends will LOVE it! And tea and scones, too, right? xoxo…kp
I think I see a lamb serving tea.
I am so jealous, the beauty of everything around you. I am so glad that you have taken us all on this marvelous trip. I hate to see you come home. You may taken me on a trip anytime. I promise, like this time, I will be very quiet and will behave myself. I wish I could bottle how I feel everytime I read one of your blogs and see the pictures and videos that you have taken. I cannot say enough about how glad I am that I have found your blog. And again “Thank you for the wonderful time”.