Halloooooo out there in realities-ville; here we are, right this moment, in suspended animation in middle of surreal Atlantic Ocean. This is what it looked like driving up to the ship on Sunday. Look how badly the Queen Mary 2 wants to get going! She is straining at those ropes!
She is happy now, doing what she does best; we are steaming right along, through blue sky and sea; making a beeline for home. It’s been hard to get on the internet girlfriends, sorry — that I can get on at all is quite a little miracle, yesterday I couldn’t even get the screen to come up; I think I might not be the only one on this ship doing a blog! But I got up early this morning to beat the traffic, so here I am, and hopefully, here I will stay for a while! It is cozy in our little cocoon this morning; here’s what’s playing on the TV here in the room, very quietly not to wake everyone up; for your morning enjoyment, French music …. they think of everything around here! ♥
Lots of tears saying good bye to England; but it was a gorgeous day to float out to sea. If there is a softer, gentler, more romantic way to travel than aboard an ocean liner like the Queen Mary 2, I can’t think of what it might be! It’s like living in a really good dream!
What a surprise for us to find this special box of chocolates and bottle of champagne waiting in our room . . . if you have time today, and you’re on Twitter, I think it would be a great surprise it you could drop a Tweet to @LisaPageUK and tell her how MUCH we are loving these champagne truffles, how they are melting in our mouth! How we especially love them at breakfast. Tell her we are saving the champagne to toast the Statue of Liberty when the Queen Mary 2 sails gallantly, as I know she will, into New York Harbor on Sunday. ♥
In the meantime we are ensconced and cozy in our little room, with the door open, the salt air is putting us out at night like lights; we are walking the promenade around the ship every day, Petey is happy, we are happy . . . and . . .
Oh dear . . . you know what girls? I hate to disappoint you, but this isn’t working; so far I have uploaded 17 photos, this is all I’ve managed to get to come up, and they are taking forever! I just got up to make another cup of tea and realized I am turning into a nut with this . . . so, see that bed, I am getting back into it! I’m rereading Sense and Sensibility and enjoying it so much, there is no reason I should be fighting city hall!
But, no matter how long it takes, I have to show you one more picture . . . here goes.
Taaa-daaaa, 15 minutes later, I got it!!! People can bring their dogs on the ship, but they have to stay in a kennel. They get to come out twice a day, and this was yesterday. One little bulldog is not happy, look at that face!!! I love it there are animals on board! We took lots of photos of them, but this one sort of broke my heart.
Soon we will be home; I’ll be in my studio with the window open looking out on my picket fence garden and, slowly but surely, the rest of the story will unfold . . . I will tell you, at leisure and with relish, all about going to Jane Austen’s house, Dove Cottage, and all the rest. I will show you Rachel’s beautiful bedroom wallpaper! I will show you the stone cottage at Siobhans! I have a WONDERFUL surprise that I’ve been saving for you . . . wonderful wonderful . . . Have we not had a ball girlfriends? Your comments made it so much fun for me! You are lovely traveling companions . . . I never felt alone the whole time! I’ll see you all back on Martha’s Vineyard; give me a little time for unpacking, let me dip my brush into some watercolors and do some more doodling for the English Diary; I can’t wait to walk out to the opening on the pond, roll around with Jack and Girl Kitty a little bit, cook something pub-ish in my own kitchen; have tea with my girlfriends, hear the screen door slam a couple of times. K, g’night girlfriends, back to the adventures of the Dashwood girls and that handsome Mr. Willoughby who feels that Elinor is “using him unkindly.” I think not! ♥
Home in time for the 4th of July! One of my favorite times of the year! It really is summer time. However, no fire works here. It seems all of Colorado is on fire. We are on alert everyday.
Have a safe and happy trip home.
Treese/Colorado Cowgirl.
Our son lives in Colo. Springs and many of his friends and co-workers have lost their homes. He is not in jeopardy as he lives east of I-25 which is a fire block but he says it’s terrible. He can see flames and smoke everywhere! Many earth changes. I can see the Boulder smoke from our back yard!!! Colorado is on fire! SAD!
Very sad, I’m so sorry!
Treese — we moved back to Southern California 2 years ago after living 15 very happy years in Denver and have been keeping track of the wildfires raging there. So sad to see such beaty go up in flames. I’m worried about the people and the awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods. Praying you and everyone else in that wonderful state are safe. Please take heed of all evacuation warnings but hoping it won’t come to that for you!
-Marianne-
Thinking of all of you in Colorado, Treese… hope the fires are out very soon! Take care….
good luck cowgirl…..we are thinking and praying for our friends in CO,,,take care….
Know the heartbreak they are experiencing – lost my home in the 2003 wildfires in San Diego. Wish there was some way we could wrap our arms around them in support. We have a group here that I am sure will reach out to help since we have been through it. Community (that includes everybody in the nation) support is so important…I remember it so well – and it is what got me through it.
Linda, did I speak to you during that time? I exchanged letters with someone who also lost their house during that horrible fire. I can’t imagine, what a true nightmare!
Here in Utah, we have 6 uncontained raging wildfires scattered throughout the state, where thousands of acres are being destroyed. Blustering winds are our enemies. Here in Salt Lake City, I see dark skies on the far off horizon line. To all Girlfriends, please pray for those who have been victims and for our Country during active natural disasters.
Yes you did…and you were very, very kind – I had lost everything including your books and you sent me some replacement books. It’s bizarre what you miss after losing everything. I’m a book nut and it was books for me. Of the 350 homes lost in my community alone, everyone got out safe. That was the blessing. My prayers to those in Colorado and elsewhere.
I thought that might be you, I always remembered that . . . You still have the best attitude for such a terrible disaster.
Time to say Good Bye!
Thank you for your so interesting stories about the UK. I really enjoyed all your entries. Now enjoy your trip and thanks for your patience regarding the internet on board.
Have a good and safe trip home!
Best regards from Bettina from Berlin (Germany)
PS: Looking forward to your book about UK (I would like to see some photos in it as well your nice drawings)
Take care
Oh yes photos too! Been writing all the ways I’ve been inspired and things I learned on this trip . . .
Bettina, what is the origin of your name? I have only seen it in a favorite set of books!
Hi Jan,
Thanks for your question.
Bettina is an Italian version of Elisabeth (or Elizabeth). My Dad did love this name a lot.
Than I was a little girl I didn’t like my name. Not so many girls in Germany had the name Bettina.
But than you are an adult you are getting wiser (maybe 🙂 ). So, now I like it.
Isn’t this blog from Susan amazing? I love it, love it, love it…
Take care Jan
PS: Jan like Jan Morris in Pillow Talk with Doris Day and Rock Hudson???
Dear Sue and Girlfriends,
Did you notice the heart shaped cloud whilst “Going out to sea, home to America”? That is a superb photo.
Enjoy your Jane Austen; I am so lucky to own small pocket sized hardbound copies with ribbon markers (these are my favorite copies of Jane’s works), larger paperback copies, and electronic copies … never far away from a good Jane Austen story!
xoxo, Priscilla
Oh my gosh, you’re right, the cloud IS in the shape of a heart!!! Good eye Priscilla!
Hi Priscilla, Yes I see it!! Amazing that Susan caught it on camera. It belongs in her future book, doesn’t it? Hearts and Susan are one in the same. Thank you for drawing our attention to it. Gini G.
I did not notice the heart shaped cloud, but went back and now I see it! Thanks for sharing that with us!!!!!
How neat! I just scrolled back and saw it. Good eye!
Thanks for sharing the detail!
Jan
Love that photo of the woman hugging her dog..we’ve had a fun trip Susan. I’m inspired in so many ways too. A lot of English people have told you that your blog has helped them see their country with new eyes….a great compliment! My own husband has enjoyed your posts too- he loves people who love England! I’m looking forward to your Dove Cottage post- it was pouring the day we went….we grabbed the last tour and had to fly through the museum….very few pics due to the rain…can’t wait to see yours! xx
Bon voyage and thanks for sharing somuch of your trip with us.
Good morning, Sue ~
What a fairy tale trip you’re on! I have enjoyed your blog throughout…thank you for sharing! I have a whole new appreciation for England, thanks to you. I can see how her influence has touched your life in so many wonderful ways and I realize, now, just how much of the “English” is in me!
I couldn’t be happier for you and Joe…that you were blesssed with this opportunity and that you’re making the most of it!
Safe travels for the next few days until you’re back on American soil. We’ll be here, welcoming you with open arms!
xoxoDebbie
How lovely to start the day with you and know that you are heading home. The trip was wonderful. I enjoyed every word of your posts. I will have to say that when I left England the first time, I cried all the way to America. I felt so at home there. Loved the country, loved the people, loved the history. I remember standing in a church in Wales that was 900 years old! You made every place you visited live for us. I am definately looking forward to your English Diary. Pet a couple of the dogs for me. You are correct, they look unhappy. Enjoy your last few days of vacation, kick back, relax, and know that Jack and Kitty, along with your girlfiends are awaiting your return. Blessings.
What a wonderful finish to a great adventure. Enjoy every minute aboard . I will be watching for your safe arrival from my office window facing the piers. Ther is nothing more spectacular than entering the Harbor with the Graceful Lady waiting for you.
Oh sweet Susan, you made my eyes tear up when you told us that we were wonderful traveling companions! Thank you so much for being so kind to include us all in an adventure that most of us will only live through your eyes and words. I cannot wait for the England Diary. I do hope it is something that we can purchase! Be safe coming home. I am looking forward to seeing glads blooming against the picket fence! xoxo Joy
I know, I can’t wait!!! You were great Joy, just like your name!
Good !..glad you are back to your happy self again…don’t know if you realize just how we count on that “happy gene” of yours !!!!! thanks !..with love..
Oh I was always happy, but it was happy with tears!!
Susan this was such an unbelievable trip from start to finish, I just enjoyed it so much. It’s always been my dream to go to England and now if I do go I’ll know the places to see. Seeing it through your eyes and the way you described everything so eloquently it was just a pleasure to be along, thankyou. Joe must be an absolute saint to have us all along with you and sharing you with all of us. Thankyou Joe! I’m looking forward for you to be back home too, as I so love the posts from the island….your almost home! -East Longmeadow, Ma.
Dear Susan!
Having just gotten home from my own vacation to NEW England I can’t imagine myself taking the time to Blog AT ALL….so I’m even more grateful for your taking us along on your journey. We won’t worry if we don’t hear from you again for awhile. You’ve more than earned your respite from us….a soul needs it’s quiet time, after all, to refresh and reinvigorate. We promise to be patient and wait to hear from you when the time is right.
Take care,
Cathy
It’s been so interesting seeing so much of the little villages of England. What a perfect trip with such beautiful countryside! I hope there is an English book in the future with lots of pictures and pub recipes. Maybe you and Joe have a new occupation-tour guides!
Hooray! I’m so glad you are steaming home! I’m so excited about the English Diary. SO excited!
That bulldog picture is a heart breaker. Poor.
You have an amazing way of making us feel like we are “there”…so from one who longs to travel (me) THANK YOU for your generosity!
Yay! Glad you could finally post a bit. We all love sleeping with the balcony doors open every night. (I think it has cured my snuffling, ha! ). You planned the best trip ever and we are beside ourselves with joy that we could all come with and really wallow in everything that is England. There aren’t enough words to say thank you and how much we enjoyed it all.
I may have missed this on the first round…I’m sure there must be an itinerary that states what time you will come to port..but, is there an announcement for first siteing of land, do we all really get to go outside, And holler, ‘LAND HO’? 🙂
What fun it has been to visit England and take this entire trip with you. Joe is such a good sport to put up with all of us!
I have enjoyed seeing Petey in the various photos. Years ago whenever my daughter and son-in-law traveled, she had a small stuffed Piglet who went along for the ride and was often seen in many photos. (Now they have four kids so I don’t imagine Piglet gets to travel as much.)
Safe travels! We will look forward to all that you’re going to share in the days to come!
OOOOH… Champagne and chocolates.. that should help our mood now, don’t you think!! We will all share very carefully and can’t wait to toast the grand old lady!! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey home… phew, what a grand ol’ time we are having! Loving every moment!
thank you for the wonderful trip!!! looked forward to all your blogs. loved it all! now back to jack & girlkitty & all that you hold dear in the USA.
So glad your entourage is safely ensconced/is that spelled correctly??? on the QEII leisurely sailing back to us…you weren’t really gone from us, but it will be wonderful to have you all back on our continent…breathe in lots of that sea air, enjoy the delicious decadent goodies, rest, rest, rest…xoxo…
What a wonderful journey…..a job well done. We are looking forward to all you have to say and show. So snuggle in, rest for now and take your time unpacking. Not always my favorite thing to do!
xoxo Pam
Who can resist a Bulldog’s pouty face ?
His proud owner is clinging to him, as if he’s a soldier coming home from war-
both are lump-throat adorable !
All of you, including Petey look & sound,
ever so happily, “refreshingly exhausted”-
an oxymoron, but adequate for 6 weeks of non-stop bliss.
Rest, relax, unwind, unload-
no need to worry about the blog,
after all, one needs a vacation from a vacation.
Joe needs to buy you a wide roll of yellow tape-
so he can set up a computer-free zone to decompress.
In the interim,
we all get to peruse your previous posts
& all the sweet girlfriend & “Pork Chop Jackster”comments
for duplicitous snickers of joy,
in case we missed ANYTHING, in all the excitement-
it’s the blog that keeps on giving……Thanks to you Susan Branch !
Susan & Joe………I’m wondering if the bull-dog felt a little queazy in the tummy. While us humans certainly don’t feel much movement on an ocean liner…..perhaps his tummy did give him butterflies or something. Anyway, still checking in daily and hope you go to the show on the evening before you arrive in NYC. It is just wonderful (if its the same one as last year) so try not to miss it! Enjoy your time coming back to the good old USA. It’s been quite the journey and what a memory maker also. Can’t wait to read all that’s coming. Hugs, Gail & Joe XX
QM2, dogs & us too, what a wonderful way to travel! Yes, Girlfriend, we have had a ball!!!! My heart runneth over with joy, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! ♥
Thank you for our trip, Susan! Every wonderful photo and beautiful word picture you shared brought it to life for us! Now, back to your cozy nesr and kitty-babies! Love the image of you with your watercolors! xoxo…kp
Hi Susan! I’m such a fan of your lovely artwork…ever since I saw your recipes in my Country Living magazines, way back when. Love your blog too. What a wonderful trip this was. England is truly so beautiful! xo Paulette 🙂
Oh Susan, thanks for a snippet of an update and battling the internet gremlins to share with us. The photo of the bulldog embraced in such a sweet, poignant hug is just priceless. How fabulous to travel with our beloved furry babies!!!
This has been the most wonderful past two months traveling with you and Joe and we are grateful!!! And, so look forward to your upcoming posts, art, photos and deliciousness in all you do! I’m sure Jack and Girl Kitty will be over the moon that you are home with them, even if they seem a bit miffed upon your arrival, that will soon pass and I bet we’ll hear the gentle hum of their purr across the land…Hugs, Love and sweetness! Jeanette
oh, now you have me in the mood…
i’ll to flip a coin to decide which
version of S & S to watch tonight!
m ^..^
I wish you a safe journey home. I have so enjoyed my time with you in England. Anxiously awaiting more of your stories about your fabulous trip. Coming into the harbor and seeing the big statue will put goosebumps on your arms.
Balisha
DASH it all ! — That QE 2 Internet Service is aggravating ! But don’t complain too loudly
— they might come and take their Champagne back …….!
I love your dad!
What a darling sense of humor!
Good Afternoon Sweet Sue….so Happy You got to Blog Today from The Majestic Queen Mary 2…I’ll try to Tweet @LisaPageUK for You about Those Yummy Champagne Truffles & The Toast to The Statue of Liberty! Oh How Petey looks so Cozy in that Comfy Bed 🙂 & so Happy to Be going “Home”…I Know Martha’s Vineyard Will Be Happy for You & Joe to Return Back to Them…& Oh My Goodness The Joy The Meows & Purrrrrrrrrrrrrrs When Girl~Kitty & Jack See You Two walking through the Door! Yay! 🙂 ok Have a Glorious Safe Trip….again Huge Hugzzz & so Many Thank~Yous For Sharing This Incredible Journey with All of Us….I Truly Feel “Well~Traveled” & I’ve learned so Much Sweet Sue! Extra~Special Pixie~Dust on Your Journey…”HOME” Yay! Love & Joy xoxo Poof!♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.Jiggity~Jig! 🙂
Sweet Sue! This has been the most wonderful trip. Really! You are the one who is the greatest travelling companion EVER! I’ve so enjoyed your happy times in Merry Ol’ England and can’t wait to “read the book”!
Enjoy your last moments of your magical dream adventure, and don’t worry about us, the girlfriends. We will wait patiently for you to take all the time you need to “decompress” (my husband’s apt term) and get settled in with your life again! After all, we have pages and pages of photos and stories and videos and our own dreams that you, dear Sue, have created for us!
Enjoy your cruise!
Hello to Joe and Petey!
With so much love in my heart –
♥Deb♥ of Buckley Manor LOL 🙂
(I just love the expressions on the Bull and the young woman who has obviously been missing him on the cruise! awwwwwww)
We have enjoyed every step of the journey! For many of us, this will be the way we will see beautiful England and sail on the QE2. And, you have made us feel right at home, sitting next to you, walking with you….simply fabulous! Enjoy the last few days of the return….take in the arrival slowly…breathe in the salty air of home as you stroll down the ramp to shore. We’ll be waiting for you! xoxo
Dear Sue,
Thank you for sharing your travels with us! I feel I could return to England, my birthplace, and feel at home. Even though we left when I was 3 1/2 and I have no memories, I felt a connection through your pictures. Being Welsh is fantastic!
Welcome home!
xo Tracy
So glad to have had a trip of a life time and such beauty before us and presented by the most charming, loving, cute person in the world, you were the best hostess ever ! A million Thank-you’s to you and Joe. I am so looking forward to you getting back to your kitties and your own beautiful world all hand made by you ! Can’t wait for more about England,I am so excited, you make our world more beautiful, how can that be? So enjoy every last minute of your trip and know we are glad to have you back home ! OOXX
Hello from another Wendy Louise — just had to say that as I’ve never met another. Can’t wait for more about England and the new book.
Thank You, Susan! It has been such fun to travel with you, Joe and Petey!!! It was just like being there!! p.s…do you think you have a little British accent now?
Awww – I’m happy you’re coming home because I LOVE your home and garden and your studio and your kitchen!!!! You inspire me and I love spending time with you……xoxo
What a wonderful way to travel home and savor all the things you saw and did. Enjoy your champagne, truffles, and the bliss of being at sea with tea, and books, and Joe ! Enjoy the trip HOME !
Thank you, thank you, thank you! This has been the best trip ever. I appreciate all your hard work and I’m looking forward to the book/travel diary,
I so enjoyed reading about your trip. I look forward to your book. I will be able to visit and revisit the Queen Mary and England when ever I want. Looking at the photo of the ship heading out to sea makes me think of all the ships that have gone before. The courage it took, some into the unknown. Explorers, brave families looking for freedom, soldiers returning from war and travelers like you.
Some did not make it. The Atlantic holds many stories. Thanks for taking the time to take me with you. Take time to rest when you arrive home.
Oh! Sweet Sue,
What a luxurious transition from one high to another, to another! As you bring us along with you, we’re feeling just the same way!……………….. It’s all sooooooo good!! 🙂
I can’t wait for you to pick up your babies and kiss them all over their cute fluffy heads! Ohhhhh! Finally!!!!! all those hugs and purrrrrrrs!!!…. It feels so good! I’m thinking will be difficult to get much done without Jack and Girl on your lap, and we wouldn’t want it any other way! They’ll be keeping you good company as you go through that big stack of mail that will be awaiting you, and follow you wherever you go….and will definitely been in allll of your suitcases as you unpack, checking out all the new smells until they get tired and lay down to in one to watch you…. it’s sooooo good to be so loved!
Jack will be bigger, as Squiggs too, ( about a month younger) has gotten noticeably bigger in the last 2 months, and even has changed her shape from a kitten to a sleeker teenager. She still bites a little but not as much. I thank you for your advice! She has slowed down a bit but still whenever I go to do anything, she’s there! …. If I open a closet she has already been there and on her way out already…Whew! She certainly has a mind of her own! Looking forward to hearing all about your babies and recounting your amazing trip!
When I count my blessings, I count you twice!
Sending you lots of love and all my best wishes! and for right now thoughts of …. relaxation!!!!! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
XOXO!
Victoria
I can’t thank you enough for such a wonderful vacation! And we will all get to hear more and enjoy it over and over again in the sweet journal you are working on for us….safe gravels dear ones!
Good Morning girlfriend, I’m very happy for you and all of us(girlfriends) that you got to fill your heart and soul with so much magic, and unselfishly share it with us. You are the best! Welcome home………..Love,Gloria
I have so enjoyed this trip, thanks so much for sharing with us. Hope your journey home is restful. Every day I would look in email to see if you had a post up. I know how frustrating the internet can be. Until a year ago we still had dial-up, it drove me nuts. Finally got a Mi-Fi. So looking forward to your Diary/book and what will be in it. I took a trip in 2006 to London, then we rented a car went as far south as Stonehenge, then we drove up North to Scotland, making stops along the way, would love to go back & also go to Ireland, it will always be a dream. Safe travels.
Have a wonderful trip sailing back home! I know the kitty’s must have missed you a lot. Looking forward to more posts about England and of course, Martha’s Vineyard in the sweet summertime!
XO,
Jane From Chicago
Good Morning, Susan!
Oh, I wish I was there with you on that huge ship! I can just feel the comfort of it.
Just wanted you to know that my daughter is having her baby tomorrow morning, a c-section, so that is why we know it’s tomorrow. She just called me and is in a state of panic, so I told her to take a nice warm bath, light some candles and have soft music playing and it should calm her down. This is her first baby, btw, and she’s 40, so it’s understandable that she’s a bit nervous. I had told you earlier about her nursery ~ Peter Rabbit, isn’t that the neatest thing EVER? 🙂
Have a wonderful trip back home and enjoy every moment of soft waves, music playing and the amazing food, meaning those amazing truffles! 😉
Love ~ Jan
Love the photo of the English bulldog. And what a joy to think that people can take their animals on board. Joe looks ever so well dressed, and what about you. Is there a photo of you in your evening finery? Sounds like everything is going well, except for the scarf, only a few more days until Jack and Girl Kitty are in your arms. I’m sure it will be gorgeous weather when you arrive home and are able to look out your back door to your (hopefully) luxurious garden. Perhaps Jack will now be able to roam through it. Take care and enjoy the rest of the trip.
Susan — I’ve so enjoyed my/your trip to England. I can see why you wouldn’t want to leave…but Girl and Jack are waiting for you! I’m wondering if you’re bringing back any new recipes? Thanks for taking me along — you’re the best!
JoAnne, toiling at her graphic arts job in the County Library here in “Sussex County” N.J. That reminds me of the time an airline returned a lost book they thought belonged to my Sussex County Library when it really belonged to a library in Cichester (sp?) Sussex, ENGLAND. We returned the book to them with a letter and they wrote us back — our sister library across the pond!!
YEEAAHHHH, woke up this morning, rushed to my computer to see if a blog from you got through!!!!! YEEAAHHHHH, it did! Thanks ever so much for trying to get pictures & the written word through to all of us. You’re always giving back. I think you’d be happy wherever you were, England, Martha’s Vineyard, the hall closet, or Tim Buck Too (Two?). You’re a dear, sweet, soul. Happy sailing. Sondra
Truly loved seeing England through your eyes and words! Thank you for sharing. So looking forward to the Journal! Especially entries on Beatrix Potter’s cottage, as my now 18 yr old daughter’s nursery was themed on Bea’s lovely little friends! Safe travels!
Cheerio Susan and Friends – wishing u bons bons & bubbly all the way home! We’re so happy to have u back from across the pond. Happy Summer!
Have loved your travelogue. Will possibly be my only view of England. Thanks so much!
Dear Susan,
I sooooo enjoyed reading about your adventure! I have always wanted to visit England and especially Beatrix Potter’s house. Thanks for taking me with you!! You have given me a goal to work for and one day, I’ll get there. I can almost smell the wonderful gardens now!
oH I CAN’T WAIT!!!! I will be waiting on pins and needles to buy your England Journal…..i am so happy that you both had a wonderful trip and i really really want to go on one of those ships now – never been on a cruise before….
but you make it sound like heaven. have a safe trip home-
always enjoy your blog!!!!
Hi, Susan!
I am so happy that you and Joe had such a wonderful time! I am also happy that you are on your way home sweet home. Have a lovely voyage!
Terry
You are the Queen of romantic travel Susan!!~ ships and trains…..ahh, someday soon. As magical as it all has been (memories to relive and treasure forever), there is still no place like home. Maybe just a few more tears of joy when you arrive on Martha’s Vineyard…. Just wondering, do you have a name for your place?
How I have enjoyed vicariously your delightful trip to England! Truly I walked with you and Joe. Truly I patted a lamb. Truly I ate a few of those wonderful breakfasts. Truly truly!!! I have a special spot on my computer so I can save every blog and read them again and again! I toast you with a Norwegian Skol from my late husband….. Min Skol….Din Skol….alla vaca flicka Skol……as you pass the the Lady in the harbour. (see, I can spell British too!) (That toast means I Skol, You Skol, All the Pretty Girls Skol!)
I’m so happy that you got to go to England with your wonderful husband Joe. I’m even happier that you were so kind and thoughtful to share it with all us girlfriends – I know it took a lot of time and effort to do that! Thanks millions and millions for letting us be a part of your adventure. You’ve given us a wonderful gift! Now we’re all looking forward to your book and hope we can relive the vacation through it. Thanks again – your the best!
Happy Sailing, Miz Susan. We await your arrival back in our BEAUTIFUL country. Thank you for a wonderful trip. I know the doggies are probably not happy in their quarters, but at least they are traveling with their loved ones – knowing they are nearby. My appreciation for showing us that particular photo!
Thank you so much for the wonderful trip to England and on board the ship Queen Mary! Truffles? Yum! My daughter and I are so enjoying our Emma Bridgewater cups – cosmos, sunflower, and pansy ones – and your new calendars for next year. So hope there will soon be a new book for purchase, Susan, for all of us sharing your trip to enjoy as a memento! That would be so fun.
p.s. Adorable photo of the dogs. We have four – and two cats.
What a great trip with you, Joe and of course… the Girlfriends. I would check everyday for the posts about the English countryside and what adventure we were going to encounter—oh those narrow countryside roads! I’m looking forward to the Diary and the “catch-up” posts from the Austen home, Jane Austen is one of my favorites. So glad you took us along. Wishing you the Safest trip home…to those who wait at the screen door, Girl Kitty and Jack.
Dear Susan,
We have so enjoyed our armchair trip with you and Joe! You did an exceptional job on keeping us with you on all of your wonderful adventures. So lovely of you to take the time to keep up on your blog and sending all the photos, you are such an unselfish, warmhearted person and so creative! I cannot hardly contain myself….to read what comes next and your English diary! You have so many wonderful memories that will last a lifetime and there will hopefully be a “next time” when you can travel to England again and add to those memories that you hold so close to your heart. It is a lovely country and you certainly were able to relate that in your blog and photos, it is so hard to put into words…it is such a different lifestyle than what we have in America. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything. Travel safely!
Hugs,
Candice
This was such a wonderful and special treat- this glorious vacation for you and Joe and that you allowed all of us to come along for the trip! I have a disability which would not allow such traveling and so especially appreciated the “room in your luggage ” to let me do some “cyber-travelling”!!! Now to anticipate all the tidbits and info on Jane Austen’s home and all the other delights to come! Have a wonderful and safe voyage home.
Thank you for sharing…it was wonderful! Have a safe trip and welcome home dear travelers!
Love, Mary
Have a great trip home – what a way to travel! Anticipating a long flight home (especially all the way to California) is usually the only bad moment on a trip for me. What a joy to go in style your way. You totally deserve it – I know you are loving it for all of us!
Can’t wait to hear the continuing tales……
XO, Sue
Ahh Susan,
Like Joy in Ohio, I too got teary eyed when you first told us you would take us all along with you to England – I had never been there and don’t know that I myself will ever get there but I LOVED! LOVED! LOVED! EVERY minute of reading, seeing, watching, listening, experiencing it through your eyes and reporting! I was still in the midst of teaching when you first started off and during your first weeks. I couldn’t wait for my lunch break to eat my salad or sandwich while reading the latest on your trip – it made for the most 15 minutes of BLISS during those days!! Thank you, a THOUSAND TIMES OVER for this experience shared through your blog and all the work you put into it to make it happen for us. I loved your delightful, playful wit as you’d have as tuck into your luggage and such. :o) I can’t wait to see/read your book and enjoy even more this magical experience. Safe travels to you all as you continue forward to your home. <3
good morning susan, joe and petey!! can we all sneak out of the trunk now and wander around the ship a bit?? maybe take a class or 2??? what cute puppy dogs, not as cute as my cats, but cute. well off to explore the ship and stroll around a bit, can we let the lamb out of the trunk now too??? hugs…… 🙂
Everybody out, take the lamb up with the dogs, no one pays attention here! Gorgeous afternoon, seas are flat and sky is blue! Going out on deck for walk before dinner. See you there!
I want to thank you and Joe for giving us the treat of following along on the most amazing adventure, I wish you made a television documentary of it, it would be such a hit!!! I loved every minute of it, what lucky woman you are, and we to have had the pleasure of seeing such a trip through your eyes, my favorite bits were the time at Hill Top Farm, safe journey
I have had a wonderful vacation in England with you and all the girlfriends, Susan. My goodness, the time has flown by, and if it has passed this quickly from my desktop vantage point, I cannot imagine how fast it must have seemed to you, Joe, and Petey. Here’s wishing you safe passage back to your home where you can finish the diary which so many of us will be anxiously awaiting to buy!
Beautiful moments, each and every one … Thank you so much, Susan, for your sparkling, delightful accounts and details that warm our hearts and minds. You are more than a national treasure … You’re an oceanic and international and intergalactic treasure, all wrapped up in your charming human form! I know your book will be a cherished keepsake. In the meantime, I hope that you’ll find great joy and pleasure in putting it together and revisiting your many lovely experiences. They’re forever a part of you now!
I did not want to leave! However, it would have been rude and ungrateful to make a fuss. You were so kind and generous to let me and all the girlfriends hitch a ride with you and Joe. Thanks for a wonderful trip. It is always so good to be home again too; and we all have wonderful memories that will last a lifetime! Can hardly wait for the “rest of the story”.
Safe and happy travels! Loved tagging along on your trip and am so looking forward to more, more, more. Many thanks!
What a lovely trip — thank you Susan for letting us tag along! Relax, enjoy the voyage home . . . to friends, garden and Kitties!!
Thank you, thank you it was a wonderful trip for all of us. I just had a flash of inspiration that maybe the Queen had time during her busy summer to read your blog. Wouldn’t that be fun? I’m sure she would have enjoyed it. Happy home coming.
I have so enjoyed reading every word and can’t wait to read (and see more). I remember feeling very sad as pulled out of Southampton on the QEII but they had a live band on the dock. Do they still have that? I still get teary when I fly out of Heathrow looking down at those green patchwork-like fields. I so adore England even after 30-odd visits and I look forward to my trip this summer. Question that puzzles me……why did you need 12 suitcases? I cannot imagine travelling with that much stuff. I bring 2 and my English friends always think I have too much. And didn’t you find driving that huge Volvo a challenge on a lot of those roads???
RE: Lacock Village…I adored it as well and some scenes from Harry Potter were filmed there as too. I have a darling photo from there you would love but unfortunately it is not on line so when I get it sorted, I will send it to you.
Hope you are going to tea each day..that was my favourite meal! I used to walk the promenade deck each morning after some room-service coffee to wake me up and then I would return to have my real breakfast!! We discovered a self-service restaurant that we found very convenient as there was more choice at meals.
Enjoy the rest of your blissful days at sea. And prepare yourself for a blast of summer heat when you arrive in NY as it is supposed to get very hot this weekend. Sorry!! But at least you missed last week’s heatwave which extended from Canada on south and was quite unbearable. Right now it is perfect!!!!
I wonder how your dear little cats will greet you? Mine attaches herself to me
for at least a week…probably fearful that I will leave her again!!!
Happy happy days and I will be watching as you arrive in NY harbour on Sunday!! Cheers!!!
Greetings from sunny Princeton where the strawberry season is over alas!!!
Mary-Anne
Oh you know, I had to bring all my art supplies, paper and things, and probably brought too much, but I didn’t think, with the tiny towns were were visiting, I’d be able to find much while I was there, so I didn’t want to take any chances. Needed a printer, actually, to work on the diary, so we had one of those. Two computers, all the wires, two cameras, it begins to add up. Had to bring American measuring cups so when I cooked the recipes I want to put in the diary, I could do it with our measurements. Things like that. Actually, I have no idea what’s in all these bags! I thought it was you!
Susan, you’re a woman after my own heart!!! xoxo
Susan: Considering the trip was 8 weeks, I thought 12 bags–considering all the equipment you were hauling to make us happy–was doing good!!! 🙂 Ha–like I said earlier: When we go on a trip I have one canvas bag for knitting, one for books, one for the dogs’ stuff (leashes, bowls, food, brushes, etc.), our separate suitcases, etc., etc. Good girl scouts learned to always be prepared! And who wants to be driving a small unsafe car on those roads, especially considering driving on the “other” side of the road! I’d pick the safest car there is, a Volvo, every time! LOL! 🙂
Taking a trip to South Africa this summer. I’m allowed one carry-on ONLY for three weeks. GULP!
That’s a challenge!
Oh dear, shall it be knitting or books??? 🙂
Linda, roll everything and put the complete outfit together before you roll…it will save you a lot of room!!! then just stack side by side and you can do this several times in layers?? then tuck your accessories all around the sides and in between the rolls. Hope this helps!!! Have a wonderful trip.
Oh well that sure shoots my ambition to write a book in England! lol……..sounds like more equipment than anything else and very little else……………oh my gosh! How in the world do you do it?
Joe did it!
Thank You…Thank You….Thank You for taking us on with you on your beautiful trip. I have been enJOYing every moment through your wonderful words, music and videos. I feel sad it is time for us to come home and I guess that is a sign of a perfect trip. Cannot wait to hear all about the details and adventures.
Love Ya Susan!
No wonder so many famous and talented artists and writers (Shakespeare, Austen, Gainsborough, the Beatles, Rachel….) come from England. How could it be otherwise with so much gorgeous inspiration and history surrounding them? I’m green, green, green with envy for their green, green, green countryside and gardens! Amazing what a little rain can do. Maybe I should move to Seattle……naaah – I love my boulder-covered hills, orange trees and almost-everyday-sunshine. As they say, there’s no place like home….
-Marianne-
Hurry up and get to New York — here I am scrunched up in a suitcase with all these women! Help!!
Poor Jack (all these women)….now, wouldn’t you think being Susan’s Dad you could have your very own suitcase?? hmmm just sayin!!! Hope the rest of the trip isn’t too horrible for you!!!
oh Jack, now you know you are loving every minute of it!!!! tee hee
hahahaha….oH Mr. Jack!!!! But just think….we will probably never-ever
have this scrunched up feeling again!!! And someday we will say, “I will
never forget the time I went to England…..in a suitcase……with thousands of Girlfriends……..and people will look at US like we are crazy!!!! But we
will know it happened….. and say, “it WAS REAL!”….. as they are dragging us away……..and telling us it’s okay!!!! Hahahaha!!!!! It was Real , right?
XoXDawn
Yes, Dawn, it really was REAL—soon we’ll have the diary to PROVE it!!!
Oh my – as I sit in Paso Robles, CA., I bask in the glory of traveling with you on the Queen Mary 2 – heading for home! Even though leaving our wonderful trip to England was difficult, going home is always wonderful too. To be included in your world has made my life so much better. I am awaiting the birth of my grand-daughter, Sophia – and then……it is off to my cabin in Newport, Washington. I am so homesick for it! Look forward to the continuation of news from the England adventures. Don’t worry about conversing with us during your Atlantic adventure. We will all wait for your return home to”kitties” and white picket fence garden, the pond and all else. XXXXOOOO Pat J
Pat- while in Washington, pick some huckleberries for me! Have a lovely time!
I think this style of travel is the way to go, too! Gives you a “transition time”. Just imagine if you flew out of England and landed in the States and were home in a day–kind of cultural shock? 🙂 Yes, that bulldog looks fairly unhappy but the little gray mug next to him/her doesn’t look thrilled, either. Think of all the different smells and sounds for them. And then being in a kennel (jail) away from owners! Well, still beats suffocating in a tight crate in the hot scary crowded hold of an airplane, right? 🙂 Just think how happy they will be to be home, too! Enjoy the week…we’re having temps in mid-90’s this week with terribly high humidity–ugh…I couldn’t live someplace where it was like this all of the time… 🙂
It’s so nice to sail home with you without having to take any motion sickness medication! 😉 I’ve enjoyed your blogs so much, and apparently so have a lot of other people, because two weeks ago I was vacationing on Cape Cod and went into a cute little consignment shop in Sandwich, where I found an antique tea cup commemorating Elizabeth II’s coronation. It was in wonderful shape and only $20, so of course I snatched it up to go with my Emma Bridgewater Diamond Jubilee and Flotilla mugs. A woman at the counter who was a friend of the owner started talking to me about the Jubilee and was excited when I told her there was another similar mug for sale. And as she went off to the back of the shop to get it, she turned suddenly and said, “Have you been reading Susan Branch’s blog?” We both started talking about how much we enjoyed it and how we’re so looking forward to your England book. It really is a small world! 😉
Yes, small world, so cute, now I do feel like the fly on the wall!
Ah, lovely to hear from you. Truffles, how thoughtful – I have one a day – keeps the dr. away:) Happy you are having smooth sailing – soppy here although sun has now come out and it is the tropics – steaming. Oh, that poor girl with the love of her life, I’m sure she wants to crawl right into the kennel with her best friend:( he looks like he’s saying, “I thought I was a person, not a dog”? sniffy
Why is it, it seemed like it took forever for you to get over to the UK and now…the time seems to be flying by, you’ll be here in no time. Always happens that way for me. I’m an early bird so I will be waiting with bells on for your arrival Sunday morn. Bisous
Love the picture of the doggies! I’m really excited about the English Diary. I know how much you’ve, er, we’ve enjoyed our trip to England, but it will be delightful to be back home again, right? It’s wonderful to think that you’ll be sharing even more of the trip with us once you’ve settled in at home again. and I’m hoping to hear how Jack and Girl Kitty fared while you were gone. I just know they missed you terribly.
Love from Diane in North Carolina
Thank you so much for taking us all around England with you. Sometimes it is good to see it through a visitor’s eyes, just to appreciate it even more. Love, love, love my home country, even though I no longer live there. Have a wonderful voyage home.
Hi to Susan and the Girlfriends,
I have just today replenished my Pimms; Dubonnet, blanc this time; and tonic water—oh dear, I forgot the limes—yikes!. No peah cidah to be had in Brevard yet; one more place to look though. Ben & Jerry’s Phish Food and New York Super Fudge Chunk are still here though; was surprised to find them in England too—what jolly good surprise that was!!!
I must decide on a new diet now as I did not have the foresight to lose—was it 15 lbs., Susan?—before I left home. Does anyone else notice that it’s a little more cramped in the suitcase on this trip? Maybe the Dukan this time?
I had a ball, Susan! Thank you, thank you and thank you once again!
P.S. Joe obviously is made for dressing up and being taken out on the town so you must now do you duty and save your pennies up so that you two can take many more tres elegante cruises! : ) xoxos
Thank you, Susan, for this wonderful trip. Your photos and writings have been most enjoyable. You have so much enthusiasm and joy. I am thinking about your reunion with your kitties, how sweet it will be to be with them again. Safe voyage, and how great that you will be home for the Fourth! Many blessings to you and your fella!
Thank you , thank you for this whole journey -it has been remarkable. Can’t wait too see more pictures.
Sigh again, Susan! You are THE most wonderful person to travel with in the whole wide world!!!! Your trip has been fabulous, fascinating, educational, and very, very fun!
See you soon – in the USA!!!
Hi Susan
Its been fun going along with you and Joe on your trip and in so many words was fulfilling! I’m sure even with all the wonderful place you have been and the nice people you both met how more wonderful it is to go back home! No you don’t have to click your heals no Dorthy here. I am sure Girl kitty will remember you, but for little man jack well he will have to learn you all over again but cats have very good memory it wont take him long. Have a safe trip home. Your lovely home is waits you both… XO
Oh, my heart is breaking! I feel your sorrow at having to leave such a lovely dream. I feel my sorrow that this adventure is over. 🙁 But…my heart lightens when I think of the beautiful English Diary you’re writing for all of us enjoy someday soon and the many more stories and photos you’ll be posting.
Safe travels home!
xoxox
Good news is that while finishing diary, I get to live the dream! Its a win win!
Thank you so much for letting us tag along on your wonderful trip! I’ve enjoyed your posts so much! Wishing you smooth sailing all the way home!
I have loved loved loved your travel blog – I regularly read your ‘regular’ blog, but this was so special to share your travels to England. I know you’re sad to leave Jolly Old England behind, but Girl Kitty and Jack will be happy to have you home and so will all of your Girlfriends!
You have inspired me to plan a trip too! To throw aside fear and doubt and go for it!
Thanks!
How do you know that Bulldog isn’t happy, don’t they always look like that?! The girl holding him sure is beautiful.
How wonderful to float on the sea headed home. A wonderful trip sure does fill the heart and mind with wonderful thoughts and memories to savor for a very long time.
So what does the little note by Petey say? Maybe you will take a pic for us.
Happy floating! And eating, I presume!
Hi Susan!!!!! Have a happy and safe trip home and know that you will be in my thoughts and i will be watching each day for your return via the seascanner!!!! This has been so much fun!!!!!! xoxoxo
oh I can’t imagine how you must feel, sorry to go but happy to be on your way home. Loved that Petey shot, he looks comfy. Thanks for taking us on the best trip evah! Noelle
Susan, have you noticed how quiet the girls are on this trip back home vs going to England?? I haven’t heard anyone complain or even misbehave (Dawn)….you must of worn us completely out and everyone is resting before their return to home and WORK…..looking at the face of that bulldog doesn’t it make you happy that your kitties stayed at home even though you missed them dearly and continued with their daily lives…..sometimes it isn’t best to travel esp. onboard a ship with pets?? You relax, read your books, knit, and snuggle with your love and forget even trying to post your blog we all understand completely. Safe voyage and enjoy the stillness, vastness, and majesty of the mighty ocean. Blessings
Hi there Deborah! Trying to be “nice & quiet” and….my computer has
been stuck at “13” comments …. so I took that as a sign to “BE Good!” 🙂
So ….just wondering …. how are you getting home from the ship landing? Wanna take a road-trip…. 😉 ???? Could be fu-un! Well, just in case….
I’m stuck again…..Have a great, great day !!! And……. see you at the
party!!! 🙂 ssshhhh……I’ll be qiuet…….but……just…..can’t help myself………
“I LOVE SUSAN BRANCH !!!” AND I WISH I KNEW HER ‘GOOD-
ENOUGH’ TO JUST CALL HER SUE, OR…….???? BLESS HER HEART….
she brought measuring cups to bake things for us while in England!!!!
When does she sleep???!!!!!
ROAD TRIP…LET’S GO GIRL….we would have a blast…we probably should take Pat (she seems to be the sensible one) just to keep us out of trouble?? Do you think we all should lay low for awhile and give Susan some time to decompress, unpack, love her kitties, enjoy her gardens…..I’m beginning to feel some of us (YOU) are bordering on stalker in a good way of course and I understand how much you love her we all do….I noticed more than 12 suitcases when we boarded bless her heart she must have shopped til Joe Dropped?? haha….this party do I need to bring anything?? just let me know and you get the car (dutch) when we land I will call Jim to let him know I just need a few more days for this roadtrip….bless his heart he is such a wonderful, patient, man….I think my eyesight is worse since I have spent so much time on this computer reading comments and all the wonderful blogs Susan sent us. What in the world will I do with all my free time now that we are almost home?? other than cooking, cleaning, caring for my kitties, weed the garden, how long can we stay on the road?? hmmmm
oH no, no, no…..not a road trip with Sue & Joe to Martha’s Vineyard! A road trip to OUR wonderful Home Sweet Homes! 🙂
I’m on board with that and I would NEVER drop in on Sue/Joe just getting back to their home….I just meant we all need to lay low for awhile and let Susan get adjusted before we bother her on here. I also think another trip to visit her Dad is in the works if my memory serves me well?? Angela made it back home (hers) last night around 9pm and she called and said she feels like she is in a fog…I told her that she will for afew days. This is her busy summer she is leaving for Tampa, FL on the 5th for 2 weeks to attend an Artist Showcase Retreat where she will meet with professionals in the music profession she is wanting to get into and at the end will put on a concert for guests. While she is there on the weekends she will be able to go and visit my parents who adore her so it is a win/win trip.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Susan for the most wonderful trip I’ve had in quite a while. Your pictures and your descriptions brought the whole trip to life for all of us. I’ve even shared your blog with my buddies who had a terrific time as well. Much appreciation for taking us with you.
Aren’t you happy that you can go aboard such a lovely ship to go home on? Kinda makes it a little bit easier to leave Merry Old England, eh? What wonderful ways to inspire us all than to share your vacation! Thank you! I loved reading about your walkabouts in people’s “backyards”! So charming
Smooth Sailing!