How to say goodbye? I started trying to put this post together last night, but, as I was doing it, matters were made even worse when Love Actually came on the TV in our hotel room! So all I really did was cry.
XOXOXOXOXOXO
How do you say goodbye to this? Did you hear those birds? And it’s only a small taste of the magic and beauty that’s been around every hedgerow since we got here. It’s not really over, I tell myself, I still have so much more to show you when we get home . . . you’re going to love the rest of Rosemary Verey’s garden! Not to mention, we get to go back to Hill Top! To Beatrix’s husband, William Heelis’s office in Hawkshead! And to William Morris’s house! And so much more!! Look what we have to look forward to! Waaaaah.
Would someone please tell me how to say goodbye?
Because I just can’t do it.
words fail me
But the clock is ticking . . .
. . . even here, in a land, that sometimes you think, time forgot. Yesterday we went to Lacock, the perfect little village where Cranford was filmed. I hope you’ve all seen Cranford, because it’s a charming story of yesteryear and looks just like this . . .
… only better, because when you are on this street, you can hear the English accents, feel the breeze, smell the lavender, see the clouds moving; you know it’s real because they have cars there now; and you can go in here and get the London Times if you want . . .
. . . because, in fact, what seems to be a dream, is all very real. Dreams, you can wake up from; we won’t ever wake up from this.
How do you say goodbye to the everyday charm of life here? Tea rooms, cottages with names like Dove and Sky; kitchen gardens in every patch of dirt; cavorting lambs around every bend; paths that take you over ancient stone footbridges,
through fragrant wildflower meadows that go forever? Where “My-toe-hurts-bet-tee” is the nature national anthem (a wood-pigeon is singing it outside our window right now) . . . this completely handcrafted country, with a full size electric tea kettle as standard in every hotel and every rental! People who say “dodgy” and “crap job” and who have cars like this right outside your hotel window and think its normal?
How can you not love them? Well, you really have no choice, you just do, don’t you!?
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Because this is the epicenter, the ground zero, of charm. They show us how it’s done. And just when the whole world needed some cheering up, they did this — they had a big wonderful party . . . for the sweetest of reasons . . .
. . . and decorated every corner of England, in the biggest and smallest ways . . .
Which sent our whole family, including Petey, over the top! Thank you England!!! Joe was reading this over my shoulder and we just decided to make ourselves honorary English people as of this moment. Petey too. I hope no one minds.
So goodbye shockingly beautiful place. We are putting the last bits into our bag (never said bits before but now I’m English I can get away with it) this morning, and going off to do the thing we saved for today; going to Chawton House, the home of Jane Austen, for one last garden stroll and walk through history before we board the ship and sail right out of Southampton into suspended animation for seven days. Where blue meets blue in an unending swirl of sky and water . . . on a big ocean liner, with violin music playing, while waves lap at the windows. Talk about unreal.
Good bye darling pubs; goodbye Rachel and Paul, Siobhan and John and all the wonderful people who made our trip so special. Goodbye Yorkshire Dales, the Peak District, the Lake District, and Kent, and everywhere in between. Waaaah. We are going to miss you very much.
Goodbye land of enchantment, it was wonderful. Take good care of yourself. Until we meet again.
You better get packed Girlfriends, and get yourself back into those suitcases; keep your raincoats on, it looks like we’re going to need them — and don’t worry, we know what’s 
waiting for us on the other side; we won’t be too sad. We have home and kitties; some of us have dogs that have missed us so much; we have our friends and family and own beds to look forward to. You can get the crimps out of your legs and I get to finish our English Diary too! Not to mention a picket fence garden, and tea with the best friends a girl could have . . . I brought everything home with me that I will need to make a real English Tea Party! I have Union Jack bunting!!! I have Pear Cider! We have our wonderful memories, and also, let’s not forget, about 10,000 photographs. Yay, US! We did it! Wasn’t it fun? XOXOXO Bon Voyage!!!! Thank you for coming along . . . I’ll try to write from the ship! But you know . . . it can be dodgy! ♥
Blimey we had a jolly good time. Now if I count sheep at night :l they have a kissable little face and such a sweet little baaaaaaa. A wonderful, magical land of flora. Thank you both so much. All packed, wow, this is the lightest I’ve ever packed:) Ready for the Columbus journey. Tootles!
Oh yes, I want that little car….think you could fit it in the room???
We brought it, plus a Morris 1000, just tucked those little babies in!
Good Moring Sweetest Sue…I Feel Your Tears… :*( I Must Thank~You with All My Heart & Soul for Sharing Your “Land of Enchantment”….This Journey Has Been Beyond Magical….I Feel “English” too…I Swear I’ve had an “English Accent” for Weeks… ask Herbster! 🙂 so Breathe in Your Last Hours of Your Beloved England….& Enjoy the Boat Ride Home…I’m Packed & Ready to Board The Queen Mary 2…..The Champagne is Chillin’….. A Toast To You & Joe (& Petey) To a Safe & Dazzling Journey Home! ( Your Kitties have Missed You Both so Much!) Meow & Purrrrrrrrrrr Mommy & Daddy are On Their Way Home! 🙂 🙂 Yay! I was Flying around in Twitterville this Morning…Loving Your “Tweets from The Twip” Bon~Voyage Darling Sue! Hugzzzzzzzz & Love & Drying Your Tears….& Lots of Pixie~Dust for Your Journey Home….(Click~Click…There’s No Place Like Home) xoxo Poof! ♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*
P.S. In Your Video on This Blog Oh How I Love those Flowers in The Glass Bottles Hanging from The Trees! Very Magical Sweet Sue! Hey Bon~Voyage Sweet Sue & Joe! Confetti & Champagne for All! Yay! xoxo Poof!♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫ 🙂 Twirling into The Queen Mary 2….omggggggggggggggg~
They reminded me of you!
Huge Smile on Me Face Sweet Sue! 🙂 I’m Happy You Two are Safe & Sound on The Queen Mary 2….Smooth Sailing My Luvs….& Bon~Voyage! xoxo Poof!♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫Amazing! 🙂 All of This! 🙂
Oh, I understand. How about another trip in 5 years? In the meantime, you and Joe have your babies (you know who) waiting with love and anticipation at home and the wondrous Martha’s Vineyard will give you summer memories to always treasure. I think Petey is up for another trip in 5 years and so are we! I can’t thank you enough for the ride. I was finishing up a very difficult school year (students were a joy and my colleagues were great – other stuff going on) and it was an oasis to be treated to such goodness and fun each day. Enjoy the return sail – you’re coming home to so much love and more adventures.
Thanks for your wonderful descriptions and photos. It has been an amazing journey!
Enjoy the voyage home and remember those kitties are waiting for you:)
Thank you, thank you, thank you for a wonderful time! I’ve enjoyed every moment of it.
If I could only stop crying for a second I could write !!!!..This journey has meant soooo much to all of us …can’t ever thank you enough…it has been truly amazing and magical !!!!…love the ending of your post as well…..the journey is not ending !!!!!…..love you both !!
Good bye is never easy. I remember as a child asking my mother why we couldn’t live at the beach cottage we rented for 2 weeks every summer, and she would always say, “because then it wouldn’t be special.” I only learned to understand that as an adult.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for your wonderful pictures and stories. They mean more to me than you could ever know.
Lee Rose & Susan ~ my mom used to say the same thing when we were kids! This has been special beyond words, Susan. I will never forget this visit with you and Joe and all the girlfriends to England and the special people and places ~ bon voyage and fair winds and following seas! ♥♥♥
Thank you for taking us all along.. what a treat to virtually visit these beautiful places. I’m thinking you don’t have to say good-bye at all… how about.. “till next time,then…”….
And..because you are returning to a place that I adore, the homecoming is not wonderful too… My dream is to have a home on the Vineyard. Perhaps someday!… for now, visits will have to do.
I’m already excited for the ferry ride over to the island!
Rosemary Verey – we have one of her books at the library – one about winter gardens, I think. And, William Morris’s house! I look forward to it.
CHAWTON!!!!!!!!!!!!! Enjoy it! It seems like you’ve included everything of importance in this trip.
Dear Susan
I am in tears reading your good-bye to England… and for a very personal reason. We have sold our English home of 16 years and will return to our native New England in August. I am bereft but the time has come. You said it all for me, and so beautifully. You “get” this place. It isn’t all perfect, by far. but we both see what is perfect. We both love it beyond words. Thank you and Bon Voyage to us all!
England’s loss will be New England’s gain. But very difficult, I’m sure. Hard to be madly in love with two places!
What a charming fare-thee-well…….our hearts are swelling! This has been a wonderful adventure…..thank you! I think I’ll miss the lambs the most, or maybe the roses and clematis climbing up the walls…..no, I know what I’ll miss the most……your enthusiastic embrace (with words and ahhhs and pictures) of beatuiful England. But then we have your celebration-of-all-things-England book to look forward to…..yipee! Fair and following seas on the way home. Our arms are open to greet you. As always, DonnaRay
I would have a very hard time leaving. I’ve so enjoyed your trip there and told my hubby that when we do an out of this world vacation, I want to retrace your steps. It just looks simply dreamy. Thanks you for sharing it with us.
HUGS
Kim
Waaah! ‘Parting is such sweet sorrow …’ ‘Thanks for the memories…’ LOVE the pic of Girl and Jack! 🙂
thank you for bringing us with you, it has been a treat!
Well, I cried reading this! I really feel as if I have been with you on this glorious trip :o) Thank you , thank you! Can’t wait for the book!!!!!
The only good part of going home is that you can work on the English Diary and get it published sooner! Thank you thank you for taking us along on this trip. I am looking forward to reading all of the stories I know you are saving up for us!
You have done the thing so many of us dream about, and you have done it with classy English charm.
I bet I’m not the only one who can’t wait to hear details about how Girl and Jack act when you get home. (They might snub you for a while, as “punishment” for leaving them, but don’t worry, they’ll get over it soon.) Thanks for sharing your wonderful trip with us. Alice in Wisconsin-land
Ha! So cute….”Alice in Wisconsinland”! Love it!!!!!
How sweet and dear, Susan. You’ve done it just right, you and your Joe. I have loved every minute of your open-hearted enthusiasm for England!
That English Journal is going to be a block buster for all of us Susan Branch fans! Can’t WAIT!
Thank you for sharing it all so generously!
You have me crying dear Susan. I call it pure joy the journey you have taken us on. From the bottom of my heart I want to thankyou because I have fallen in love with an old friend – my dearest England. I want to get out now to visit places I have never been to, never heard about and I know that there is more so much more. I can’t wait to hear all the stories and tales of your further adventures in my dearest England. Safe journey home and until next time I will take care of our glorious land. Much love Janeyxx
You are so lucky Janey! It truly is a magical place.
Susan, Wishing you a smooth, safe voyage home! Thanks from the bitty bottom of my heart for this most-wonderful gift of taking us along with you. And, with more to come, the excitement continues. What a fabulous blessing you have been given of this spectacular holiday and you’ve blessed us with your generous heart & spirit.
Staying tuned, as always…
Hugs & Love. xoox, Jeanette
It was just the most wonderful trip ever! Seeing it through your eyes made it seem all the more special, like having our own personal guide. We saw so much, and how special that it all happened during the Queens diamond jubilee! I hope your trip home is safe, and I for one is looking forward to seeing Marthas Vineyard again…it seems like we’ve been gone forever! I know of two special kitties that are going to be very happy to see the both of you. Thankyou for bringing us all along! – East Longmeadow, Ma.
Dear Susan & Joe,
Just read this last post of yours (that IS what you call it, right??!!) I can hear the sadness in your written words from far away…it is raining a soft & quiet rain, here in Windermere & it seems to fit your mood perfectly. I am sorry your trip is over but…it’s not REALLY over, for you still have your marvelous “little boatride” home over the ocean blue!! And, you will be continuing to relive your experiences through your writings & painting & blogging. We will all be waiting to continue to see what YOU have seen on this marvelous adventure you have been on. Thank you for taking us with you; for we have loved it, too! 🙂
It is always sad to say good-bye to something that you love. But, you can always plan for your next visit. Looking forward to more pictures and tales of adventures that you and Joe enjoyed.
Treese
This is so sad…having to say goodbye to England. It’s in my blood, you know. I’ve always been smitten with her. How I wish we could stay another month, or even two. I know–we should live here half the year!!…the other half we can spend in Cali and on the Island. We’d have to spend fall, the holidays and part of the winter on the Island–must have the orange leaves of October and the lovely snow for Thanksgiving and Christmas along with rosy cheeks and bundling up to brave the elements. And Cali–not sure when we’d fit that in, but it is a must, at least for a month or two. So, it’s settled then??…Oh well…I can dream can’t I?….goodby England…we love you….from the suitcase via the hills of TN.
Oh such a shame to have to leave such a beautiful place ! But dont see it as saying goodbye, see it as till we meet again ! I am sure you will be back there for another trip in the future !Thanks soo much for sharing this trip with us and all your fantastic photos . I bet the kitties will be thrilled to have you home . Have a safe trip home !
It’s hard to tell you just how much I’ve enjoyed your trip to England. Have recently found out that most of my ancestors all came from there and you have helped me to get a sense of what a wonderful place it is. Smooth Sailing home and have a wonderful reunion with your FurryKittyKids! (don’t be too hurt if at first they give you the cold shoulder….)
Oh it will give us time to unpack! 🙂
Awwww, Thanks so much Susan! It’s been a fine journey through England with you!! Can’t wait until you get home to beautiful MV!!! I have loved all your blogs from England, but I miss your charming blogs from MV too!!!! Safe, safe travels. Fondly, Kim D. from Dublin, OH.
I am speechless, and almost in tears myself as “we” leave England! Susan, I can never, never thank you enough for sharing your trip with us! What a wonderful, once in a lifetime expereince for so many of us! And I’m sure many feel as I do – if I could go – I would be on the next ship! (I don’t like to fly). From the bottom of my heart – thank you, and thank Joe for his patience in letting you share with us. You’ve sent my imagination soaring, and when I hear the sheep from across the road baa (I can’t see them, but I can hear them) ….I pretend I’m really in England! But on a brighter note….I can’t wait to see pictures of your cats, gardens, parties and tablescapes back home!!! : – )
Hello Susan and Joe and Goodbye England!
How can we end it all here? Breathtaking journey through your eyes, just absolutely breathtaking and England stole my heart too…….the scenery, the atmosphere, the landscapes, the architecture, the flowers, the kindness, the pomp and civility, teas and traditions, customs, ……all of it. I wish I had wings now. I wish I had wings! Every single picture is so breathtakingly beautiful and again, if only I had not given up painting, I would have a thousand and one ideas to paint now. Every picture could be a painting Susan, it really could. Thank you so so much fo r being our eyes Joe and Susan and for taking time to share all of this beauty with us all. It has been something never to forget for all who have shared in your blog. Looking forward to the rest of what is yet to come and to the published Diary to be able to see all of this and more every day when we sit for our cup of tea! Safe travel to you both for your return home. By the way we had two days of 98 degrees here on the East Coast ….good that you missed those. Home & friend & we girlfriends are all waiting to welcome you back. God Speed.
So sad to say goodbye….I can’t even put an exclamation point anywhere and that’s hard for me to do. Excited, tho, that there are more pics to come! Love the pic of Jack and Girl waiting for you…because you KNOW they are! Hugs as you leave……thank you for bringing us on your journey. It’s been wonderful…xoxo
I know exactly how you feel. It is hard to say goodbye to such an amazing place. Thank you so much for sharing your journey with me…it has been a true joy:) I have never been to England, but have lived in other countries, and know the sweet joy that comes from living there….it is hard to go home. But, remember, you have such cute, sweet 4 legged critters waiting for you at home..who have missed you dearly, and just want to snuggle and purr with you and Joe. I just returned from vacation out West, and my 4 critters have been so homesick for me and I for them. Safe travels…Erica
I feel so proud of this country, thanks to this post! I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed your time here.
safe travels, and come back soon.
x
You have a wonderful country, the people were so good to us!
Oh my goodness…I’m actually getting choked up with you! 🙂 I hate leaving wonderful places….so difficult. I’m sure I speak for all the girlfriends when I say we ALL had such a wonderful time with you in England…what an amazing trip! Enjoy your week at sea, and know you will see 2 furry bodies of happiness waiting at your door in just a few days! Cheers!
All I can say is “thank you” for taking us along. What a wonderful journey we had!
Oh England..we shall miss you…. But am grateful to have been able to see you up close and personal! smile… So excited to see Cranford …loved the movies…I must watch it one more time and to know I have been there…”big smile” Hope our journey back across the ocean I a safe and enjoyable one!!
Blessings,
Gert
Have a safe trip home, Susan! I loved travelling with you… In a few hours, we are flying to Portugal. The boys have never been to Europe, and they are so excited to see where their paternal grandfather was born and where their maternal grandparents came from. I have never lived for an extended period of time in Portugal, but every time I set foot in that country, I can’t help but feel, “I’m home.” I’ll catch up on your trip when we come back. Lots of love to you!
Susan, Joe and Petey !! Thanks ~6 letters that translate into “billions” of~~OMG~~What a Hoot~~~Love those pictures~~Songs~~mini video’s~~~where’s my tissue??~~~droolin’ country sides~~~and cottages~~~all the “critters”and special tours of places with people I’d want to visit~~~~ and I don’t even like Tea …but this trip has made me think well maybe it’d be a good time to try it again~~~the ”bestest ever” trip shared with girlfriends…Looking forward to all your future blogs and 10,000 photo’s. It’s been a cozy vacation…and sharing is YOUR middle name so I know it’s not over yet..soooo much to still be shared. Yay for us too!!
Smiles and Sparkles …Blessed Be to you three!!
Oh my dear Susan – This has been one of the (no the BESTEST) trip I have taken in many a year. Probably dates back to when I was there as well. I hate for it to end. We need to be there smelling the flowers and watching the lambs and singing or humming “God save the Queen”. Safe trip home and again many many thanks. It has been wonderful. JQ
It has been W.O.N.D.E.R.F.U.L!!!!! Thank you so much for sharing
your time and beautiful spirit!!
Thank you. Oh! Thank you for this wonderful excursion into DELIGHT. It’s blessed my life to get to see life in England again. You are feeling just how I felt when I had to leave it all………I never wanted to part with it all! I don’t want to leave even now. So hurry with our travel journal and do print plenty of them. You know, we ALL have to have one!
I find when I’ve finished reading your travel blog that there are tears in my eyes! There’s just nothing like the charm of England and you brought it to us so well! So, thank you Dear Susan. And thanks to Dear Joe, too! Thank him for us for thinking of this wonderful thing! Bon Voyage! May the bonnie ocean bring you home to us safely! Prayers for you, both.
Oh Susan, I’m crying again–saying goodbye is difficult. Love and kisses to you and Joe for taking us on a wonderful journey to beautiful England. Can’t wait to see what you have in store for us! xoxo ♥
You are both very welcome as Honorary British Citizens, I have so enjoyed your trip, especially the photos showing me all the places I must now visit to enjoy for myself. Have a good journey home, stay safe. Hope you return one day.
Ann, isn’t it fun to experience “home” through someone else’s eyes?
Hi Sandy, yes it is fun, I am looking at “ordinary” with new eyes. (and I have joined the National Trust so I can visit the places Sue has been to.) Must visit Lacock next week also.
To die for Ann. Find a quiet corner so you can go back in time.
i can’t believe it’s time to come HOME!!! i’m sitting here crying and i wasn’t really there so i can’t imagine how you must feel!!! but we all know how wonderful it is to get home so enjoy your return trip and look forward to the kitties and your wonderful house and the beach walk and your garden(which will need some attention i’m sure!) thanks for taking us with. we’ll remember it always! mb
Well, I was in VH yesterday for the house tour, and all I can say is – your house looked lonely… so don’t be TOO sad.
PS- It’s been wonderful following your trip. I’ve written down multiple places that I have missed, and now want to visit. 🙂
It’s over way, way too soon. It is always good to get home though. Thank you for my lovely trip and like you, I won’t forget it soon. I think I might sleep all the way home. Thank you Susan and Joe.
~Good morning ~
All I can say is thank you for the beautiful tour!
Safe journey back here to you & Joe! (and Petey)
Blessings~
Lynn
OH! I forgot to remind you to bring home a jar of Apricot jam to have with your tea and don’t forget the marmalade! You just gotta have it! 😉
Reading this goodbye, I’m all choked up. You’ve had the trip of a lifetime. Thank you for sharing… the number of travelers to this part of England may explode thanks to you. God Bless.
Good bye for now, lovely England …..we will come back another day.
What an adventure……..thoroughly enjoyed and wonderfully refreshing. But back to reality and family and friends.
Thank you Susan and Joe and ofcourse Petey! Such great traveling companions.
See you soon.
xoxo Pam
Oh Susan – hasn’t it gone so fast! Bye-bye, toodle-pip, chin-chin until next time. Enjoy your last day and the luxurious days on the high seas. And look forward to HOME! Its oh so nice to go travelling, but its so much nicer to come home – as Frank said.
Aren’t you so glad digital cameras were invented – remember those old days of film when you could only take 36 pics and then most of them were terrible when you got them back from Boots the Chemist!
We were just saying that! Now we can almost feel we are in England at any time! All those videos of rivers rushing by and lambs baaaing!
Susan and Joe – I want to personally thank you for this wonderful journey that I have gone on with you. The time to put this all together so that we, your “friends” could enjoy this with you is so deeply appreciated. I have been a “fan” of yours, Susan, for so many years, when I bought your very first cook book. I have all your cookbooks and so do my daughter and daughter-in-law. We all just love them and use them constantly.
I have thoroughly enjoyed, especially, all the gardens you have visited. I am an avid gardener and am amazed that the flowers that you have seen are the same flowers blooming in my gardens, at the same time. All that distance, from England to Rush, New York, the same flowers are blooming.
Have a safe trip home and once again, I shall always remember “our” wonderful adventure the summer of 2012 in England. Thank you again for sharing –
Barbara Flannery
Oh I love it! I love every bit of your environment; the trees, the flowers, the lambs, the history, the weather, the love! and the excitement! Thanks so very much for sharing all this beauty with us and I feel refreshed each blog that I read, as if I’ve been to England too! I;m so sorry you have to leave, it would be heart wrenching. But look what you are coming “home” to. Hugs, Judy
And there are your two hearts at home — waiting patiently staring out the windows to see you as they have for the last two months while you habe enjoyed the delightful, never to be forgotten gifts that merry old England has provided. Don’t be sad in leaving, you have had your fill of the best that you can possibly find there, know that your mission is to recreate all that you have experienced during your visit, in vibrant text and living color for all your friends, everywhere, as you share time with Girl and Jack, back here on Earth!
No matter how many of us tried to say it, only a Susan’s Dad could have written this with so much gentle truth and getting to the heart of it all. Charlotte (Charlotte’s Web fame) could spin a web: “Some Dad!”
Hallelujah!
Jack that was perfection. Heartfelt words filled with wisdom from a wonderful, precious dear Dad. You are very special!
Perfection! Just when I think you’ve hit the top, here comes one more wonderful, perfectly perfect post! It has been lovely, thank you, thank you, THANK YOU! dear Susan for taking us along. And Joe, mustn’t forget Joe…thanks Joe! Oh, and Petey too!
Susan,
Thank you so much for sharing your trip and beautiful England with all of us. I actually cried when I saw the Queen and felt I was right there!! Of course I was right there next to Sir Paul 🙂 Have a wonder ful trip back and we’ll see you on this side of the Pond.
Bon voyage,
Lucy
Thank you so much Susan, for sharing your trip with us. What a fun experience. I have always wanted to travel like you have on this trip. It has been so special to see such a beautiful country with you. Thank you, thank you. You bring sunshine every time I look to see if you have posted anything new, and there you are, like a warm hug. Have a wonderful trip home with your sweetheart. He sure is a great man and he loves you so much. I am looking forward to your new book and to revisit England. What fun…
Stiff upper lip Susan. It was grand. Thanks so much for taking us all along on this trip of a life time. Cheerio
Also , I would say you really don’t have to say goodbye , as you seem to be bringing it all home with you 🙂
🙂
Oh, Susan, Waaah with you for saying goodbye to England. You have made it so real and fun with your pictures and writing!!! Thank you! Blessings on your final times enjoying the favorite you saved for the end. So looking forward to what you post from home and your book and ALL you do to cheer up those of us who love your work!!
Blessings and love,
Irene
Sounds like you had a really wonderful time and we would be proud to have you as honorary English people! It’s lovely that you think so much of our country. We get used to everything and to see it through fresh eyes makes me appreciate it all the more. Have a safe trip home. 🙂
I have made my dream trip this summer, thank you so much for taking me along. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
It went by so fast, but that seems to be the way when having a wonderful time. Thanks for letting us come along with you. I love these trips that when it is time to go I still long to see and do more. I think that is a great sign that the trip has been fabulous.
This was just one slice of heaven after the next! I thank you form the bottom of my heart, for all of the gorgeous pics and darling movies. For all of the wonderful info about things and places I could never dream of (that magical book store for one)!
I bought some of those exact little bottles for flowers at Filoli Gardens in Redwood City, Ca. last weekend!!!
Safe journey home. Rest up….you know we’re all dying for you to publish that diary!
XOXO,
Tawni
Tears tears here for leaving and comeing home sweet Sue!
Waaaaaah very loudly! “Our” trip has been fantastic, you, my dears, are just the absolute best tour guides!! I didn’t even have to scream outloud once with Joe’s expert driving (although there was that one time, on that itty bitty road, that I had to clamp my hand over my mouth!)!! Thank you Joe! Sue I’ll enjoy rereading these blogs, & reliving our wonderful visit to Merry Ole England! “….don’t know where, don’t know when” are such perfect words & a perfect song! Not enough words to express how wonderful this has been, so just – THANK YOU!!!! We’re all scrunched back in with you for our trip back home & I know it’ll be happy sailing!! GIGANTIC XOXOXO’S!!! Happy Happy heart here! ♥
Travel safely!!!!! Us girlfriends anxiously await your return 🙂 and we are oh-so-grateful for your taking us with you!
Oh Susan, you’ll have us all crying. Such a wonderful trip we’ve had, it really is hard to say goodbye. But we can always go back again someday. And we can all look forward to more fabulous photos. Thank you so much for taking us along. These past few months have been so inspiring. Have a great trip back, can’t wait to see how Jack has grown. He’ll be so happy you and Joe are home. And Girl Kitty as well.
Hi Sue and Joe…and Petey,
I can’t thank you enough for taking me along on the most wonderful trip ever!!!!
It has been an experience that I will never forget. Can’t believe that the time went soooo fast. I could never pick my most favorite part of the trip. It has all been amazing. Looking forward to more pics and tales. Anxiously awaiting for the diary to be available. Have a safe trip home…enjoy the ocean views!
Thanks…Kathie
PS…the pear cider looks yummy!
Now I’m feeling a little misty eyed myself. But one picture of the kettle on in your kitchen at home and I’ll be back on track. I have LOVED every blog entry, thank you so much. Have a wonderful journey home. xoxoxoxox
You did a beautiful job – I really never heard good by as much as I heard you say I will return – even in memory and alfterall you are “honorary British” now. I love “the epicenter of charm” – my sentiments exactlly – being married to the most considerate, kind, mannerly English man I have ever met. Jack and Girl await for your enjoyment. Judy C
It all went by so quickly. I so enjoyed all the teas, the visits, the sights and the people. Thank you so much for packing me in your suitcase!
pulse pulse pulse. I keep looking at that cursor and its me that has no words.
You have such a generous nature, to share your trip like this. I’ve loved it so.
xxx
julie
Hi Susan! My mom, one of your “girlfriends,” heartily recommended that I read your blog because I studied in England last summer, in Oxford, and have such a passion for the beautiful countryside. I just LOVE your blog! Your sheer joy about the beauty of life shines through your writing and it therefore fills my heart with joy. I did a summer program at Oxford for 6 weeks studying Jane Austen, my favorite author of all time! I got to travel to Chatsworth, Chawton, and around the Cotswolds, so for me reading your blog has allowed me to relive my experience in England! I am now an avid reader of your blog, and I can’t thank you enough for being you and sharing your wonderful experiences and artwork with us all.
Kristina, we were in Chawton about three hours ago!!! Just lovely, exactly how we hoped it would be!
P.S….thanks for the “tweet” photos…eyes still watering….Bon Voyage,dear Susan and Joe !…..with love…
Susan, thank you so much for our wonderful trip through England. The pictures were wonderful, the writing compelling, the videos fun! Loved every minute of it! Thanks again!
Susan, This has been so much fun! Now to leave one beautiful country, sail across a beautiful ocean, only to land in another beautiful country that is home! So much joy! I love the fact that you have even more to share with us about this trip. I am looking forward to having your book in my hands!
(Susan, will you indulge me in a quick side note to all of the SB Girlfriends? In just the past few weeks, I found a breast lump and had it removed. My nodes are clear, and I have to go back to have more tissue removed. My outlook is so good! Girlfriends, please do self exams regularly along with your mammograms. Susan, what did you call them, smashograms? ; )
Just do it! ) Okay, let’s carry on and celebrate England and our homecoming!
Good girl Sandy! Thank you for that wonderful advice. Am so happy to hear your diagnosis and know that you are almost on the other side of the scariest part! xoxo Blessings on you!
Thank you Susan
P.S. One of my favorite things was the beautiful flowers growing next to the old buildings,, such beautiful pops of color!
I stood in Sandy’s shoes…7 years ago. So please everyone heed Sandy’s advice and be vigilent about taking care of yourself.
Thanks Linda
Sandy, I can completely understand what you are going through because I went through something very similar a few years ago. I found out on my regular checkup and 4 xrays I had a lump and I came back for more xrays and a sonogram, then sent to a specialist and more xrays and at the end of the 2 year ordeal I had 16 xrays on that one breast. I think you can understand this next humorous quip that I made to a radiologist when I told her “well after 16 xrays I’m sure by now that I will glow in the dark, it will be like having my own nightlight with me”…..they thought it was good that I could have a sense of humor and why not I thought. It was scary and at times painful; but, the advice you gave to the girls is very important….I wish you the best and my Blessings.
Thank you Deborah
Sandy, So sorry to hear what you are going through. I did the same, THIRTEEN years ago. And so glad that you and all of us, have had the pleasure of sharing Sue’s trip to glorious England. I know when going through my treatment that I reveled in good news and funny books and movies etc. Keeping a positive outlook helped me so much to get through it all. Having shared this wonderful trip must have been great therapy for you. Best of luck in all that comes. My prayers are with you. Email me if you would like to talk more. [email protected]. Kathy Phenix in Melbourne FL
See, Sandy! When you go in for surgery on Wednesday morning, we will ALL be there, all of us girlfriends, in the waiting room in spirit, sending up good wishes and prayers! 🙂
Thank you Kathy
Well you have me weepy! It has been a treat travelling with you, Joe and Petey. Not to mention all of your wonderful friends and tour guides. Safe home! Two little kitties are the big winners in this sad departure!
TaTa and Cheerio Susan, Joe and Petey…it was wonderful sharing all your adventures with you…thank you so much for letting us all go along on your journey…time flies when you are having fun…safe travels back to us and I will be waiting anxiously for your next blog post…xoxo…
You’ve captured the charm of England so beautifully. And I’ve been inspired to think seriously of going back to England next year. I look forward to seeing more of your wonderful posts.
“Waaah” says it so eloquently! (Excuse me while I blot my tears.)
I have loved your sharing this trip with us. It has been wonderful! We are leaving tomorrow, June 25, for Paris France. I have never been out of the USA before, so this should be quite an adventure! I will be sure to check in with your blog as soon as we get home on July 7th. I am in love with England now after your trip. I hope France will be as impressive!
Oh Robin..let us know when you return your impressions of your first trip to Paris!! How thrilling for you….Paris..the city of lights….sigh!!
Paris is amazing!!!!
Oh Susan….what fun!!! This has been wonderful! What a gift; what a treat to all of us….taking us all along like this! Thank you for all the pictures, the ideas, the moments….
It was incredible!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Have a safe trip home…
Love,
Joann
XO
Crying along with you, Susan. I’ve never look forward to reading any posts more than yours from your trip to England. Loved it all! Thank you so much. And could it be? Have Jack and Girl Kitty become good buds while you’ve been away? They will be soooo happy to see you. Safe journey!
I know exactly how you are feeling right now,I feel the same when we leave after a visit.
You had a wonderful visit to a handmade country and will have a handmade book to remember it by !
Bon Voyage.
Hi, Susan. Thank you so much for sharing your magical journey with us — it has been delightful and insightful. To all the Beatrix Potter fans out there, I would like to mention that there is a Beatrix Potter Society which has members all over the world. There are meetings; conferences with fascinating speakers; tours; newsletters; and wonderful social events (lots of afternoon teas) in the UK and the United States — all based on Beatrix’s incredible life and careers (author, artist, conservationist, landscape artist, farmer, sheep breeder and more!). More information can be found at http://www.BeatrixPotterSociety.org.uk or at [email protected] (an electronic newsletter). What a perfect way to meet and bond with other kindred Beatrix souls!
PS Referring to my previous comment about Beatrix Potter, [email protected] is not a web site, you can email them for further information.
Sue, You have me in tears. Such a wonderful trip. Thank you Sue, and thanks to Joe for sharing you. Now, home to the two babies. (Great pic!) I’m sure they will shower you with love and affection. Smooth sailing and Kisses to the Kitties!
I think your Dad said it best.. you are bringing home the best to share with all of us. I think a trip is always enjoyed more when home and thinking about everything because you have more time to savor it all again. Thank you for one last post before getting on that ship. I feel like we went the whole trip with you at the same time this way. I have always had a love affair with England but you made it feel REAL to me on this trip. That it wasn’t all in books only. Thank you for that and I so look forward to that book of yours. OK I am back in that suitcase again. Bon Voyage and hello Kitties here you come. 🙂
Loved every minute of our trip, thank you. This calls for a sequel, soon!
Susan & Joe,
What a heartwrenching but heartwarmer of a post !
Your comical, heartfelt “Waaaahs”
kept us all from jumping off a cliff.
Don’t worry your pretty little heads-
we all know you’ll go back to England many times more,
during the rest of your long, healthy, happy lives.
You can’t say “Good-bye”,
if you never had the chance to say “Hello”-
and THAT you did, a couple times.
This time, you generously took us all with you-
like kids with smashed faces glued to the car window,
rolling through the hills & dales,
charmed by London, the Queen & all your lovely British friends.
You, Joe & little Petey were expert navigators
and gracious chaperones,
covering a lot of ground, capturing & sharing every single joy.
Your good-bye post sounds like
it’s the perfect ending page to your journal-
but perhaps, the perfect beginning
to a second or third journal,
for we know you are just bubbling & bursting
with tons of memories & watercolour images.
The voyage home will give you a chance to decompress
from all the overwhelming excitement,
to reflect & savor every scrumptious memory.
Awaiting on the Vineyard are Girl Kitty & Jack,
the best Fourth of July harbor celebration in Edgartown,
all your friends & most of all-
your peaceful, soulful studio.
Here’s a lovely clip for you & all the girlfriends to enjoy:
beautiful lyrics, scenery & hauntingly gorgeous voice.
“Perfect Day”
From The Tales of Beatrix Potter
Sung by Miriam Stockley
http://youtu.be/oXEHA6-5J-M
The rain has moved on
And left a new day
Nothing seems to move everything is still
Its just a perfect day
The shadows and light
That move with the wind
Hidden violets grow splashed with summer spray
Just another perfect day
On the wild and misty hillside
Fear is natures warning
Hunger here is never far away
And all of this world
Is for children who play
Days that never end always should remain
Another perfect day
A Beatrix Potter quote:
“Believe there is a great power silently
working all things for good, behave yourself
and never mind the rest.”
Thanks for the glorious experience-
can not wait to hold your journal in hand.
Safe sailing…..Welcome home !
Fourth of July harbor celebration in Edgartown sounds great!!! I like the BP quote too. How true, how true.
T’was a beautiful trip! Thank you for sharing. Looking forward to the book – makes my Christmas list easy this year. Welcome Home!
Susan,
It has been a beautiful, glorious trip!!! One we will never forget. Thank you~ and remember “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”
See you soon!♥
I forgot to tell you, we are making a trip to Cottonwood today~ a little antique shopping and lunch on old town main street. If I see your Dad, I’ll give him a hug for you. 🙂
oooo please do that, he’s the cutie pie with the twinkle in the blue leprechaun eyes. xo
Thank you for sharing your wonderful trip with all of us! Can’t wait to savor the resulting book!
Safe travels to you and Joe (and Petey too)!
O Susan parting is such sweet sorrow…But thankyou thankyou thankyou to you and Joe soooo much for sharing your trip with us all! I shall look upon this beautiful country of ours with renewed vision thanks to you! I soooo look forward to reading your book when it is done!
I feel like I am saying cheerio to a great friend who stopped by for a visit its a little sad but we all have so much to look forward too! Thanks again Susan you really are one of the sweetest kindest people I know of. Have a safe journey homeward bound. xxxx
That’s a wrap (for now)! You Wow’d us all with your commentary and pictures and now we can look forward to the release of ‘the book’. Better have a huge printing because everyone one, me included, are going to want to own a copy. Have a safe, happy sail back to the States. Remember, for every door that closes another one opens…….Hugs from NJ
“Waaaaaaah” sniff, sniff “Waaaaaah” is about right. Saying goodbye is so hard to do…. but you have said goodbye to beautiful England with grace and charm.
USA is a lovely country….. it has beautiful country sides from coast to coast, its progressive and innovative, and we can pursue the lives we dream of…. many people want to come and experience America….. but, there is also something to be said about revisiting our roots. Some of these older countries are like visiting beautifully kept old neighborhoods. Neighborhoods that have charming homes were everything is hand crafted down to the last detail. These “neighborhoods” help us stay in touch with where we’ve been. That is why I have loved your blog…. its given us all a birds eye view of a charming little country that has roots that go way back in time. Thank you for that.
xoxoxoxo cheerio
Thank you for sharing your wonderful trip to England with us.
Oh Susan…to quote a favorite artist/author/girlfriend we know and love……WAAAAAH!!!! Until you return once more to the land of enchantment you will have to hold her in your heart. Thank you for a magical adventure we will never forget…don’t cry shopgirl….we love you!!! Xoxoxoxoxo
P.S…how much pear cider did you bring home with you?? You will have to ration it!!
P.S…you MUST see the movie Because of Winn Dixie…Cicely Tyson (amazing) has bottles hanging in her trees…such a beautiful movie….Eva Maria Saint is also in it…so love her!! It is a classic, must-see!
Thanks for letting me be an armchair traveler. Thank you for sharing this wonderful adventure. Now I’m off to watch a bit of Miss Marple to continue with my sunday in England theme…..
I’m so happy you both had such a wonderful time. You both deserve it, as hard as you two work. Your kitties will NOT leave you alone for one minute…they will follow you EVERYwhere you go when you get home. That will sweeten the pot, so to speak!!