Hi Girls, thought I’d show you how we spent Black Friday . . .
People keep asking, are we home yet? No, we are much too easily destracted. We know that winter will be long, and have decided that we must make hay while the sun shines. And yesterday, oh yes, the sun was shining.
So our Black Friday was not spent inside a Target or a Walmart, but wandering the back roads of Kentucky, stopping to breathe the fresh clean air at the Shaker Village in Pleasant Hill outside of Lexington where it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.
We did shop in the gift shop, which I think counts. And got some fun homemade little things. While I was there I heard a little girl exclaim, “Mommy, this is the best day EVER.” Then we went for a wagon ride. Clip-clopped under horse power around this beautiful little village.
It’s just gorgeous in this part of the country. We’ve never been to Kentucky before! It’s like a Sunday drive, the kind you dream about. Red roofed barns, horse farms and white fences for miles.
Little houses and big ones. Fields and fountain, moor and mountain . . .
And now for December Girlfriends, it’s rabbit-rabbit tomorrow. How are you going to spend December? The TV was so filled with Buy! Buy! Buy! ads last night; the news showed fighting amongst mobs of customers inside stores and some of them had their children with them! It made me a little nervous for the actual spirit of Christmas. It’s good, makes me know how much peace is my spirit of Christmas, and makes me think better how to spend ours. Like this. You give me a book, I give you a tie, and Oh, zee crackling fires vee vill make!
I see it perfectly in these cozy little houses, even without a Christmas light in sight. Looks like the valley people are all dug in for winter. I hope they have their Honeycrisp apple supply stored in their cellars. As for us getting home, first we thought Saturday, then Sunday, now we’re looking at Monday as a possibility. But I’m not putting any money on it. On our way through Maryland this morning! Byeee! xoxo
So much more a pleasant way to spend Black Friday {which seems to have crossed the Pond this year}
This is such a delightful surprise today, to be drifting along on the tide ofTwitter to come across a link to another entry in the diary of the adventures of another diary~~~
My Advent calendar is ready today, sitting very near to my Susan Branch calendar, ready for tomorrow. How quickly this year has flown by with the good company of the Girlfriends, many new ones made this year, and good books to read.
I especially like the last photograph you shared today. Makes me more than a little sentimental to be in America at this time of year. Such a pity your trail does not seem to carry you to Colonial Williamsburg~~or maybe a small detour is in order? Maryland is not that far away, and I just loved Christmas time there.
Waving from Across The Pond xoxo
Oh I’m so sorry Debs, Black Friday isn’t not the kind of American import I would wish on you! We do have better! We thought about Williamsburg, but we’ll save it for another adventure because our road is heading north now.
Oh, YES! Williamburg at Christmas is the most wonderful time to go there…..Bruton Parish is spectacular, as well as the entire area…Everything is natural and gorgeous….When you leave, you want to decorate “that way” when you get home….It is an experience you always remember….Christmas in Williamsburg is delicious.
Maryland! That is so east and so close to home!! You must have done some some high intensity driving when you were not having fun in Kentucky! There is a wonderful topiary garden called Ladue in Maryland. But I don’t know if it is open now. In any event, have fun and enjoy yourselves. And do be careful driving on Sunday as the traffic will be horrific as everyone tries to get home after the holiday. I always avoid 95 when there is a lot of traffic and take 80 instead. Happy safe driving!!! The kitties are waiting and the temps are going back up after a really really cold Thanksgiving!!! Godspeed to you both.
We’re on EST time zone! We wake up when Martha’s Vineyard wakes up! Thank you for the 80 vs 95 idea … will have to present that to map man!
One of the most beautiful parts of the country. What a perfect day!! Enjoy your travels over the river and through woods as you make your way home. I find the spirit in the simple joy from being with family and friends. It is a shame that so many get caught up in the retail craziness. May your spirits be bright!
And they are PJ!
Hi PJ
Nice to meet you via this blog……….I am also a PJ………..:)
Oh and I forgot to say that I never ever step foot in a store on Black Friday. Such madness and definitely not in the spirit of Christmas!!!! There is a time for everything,. Actually I don’t shop at all this weekend. It can wait until the quieter weekdays. Time to write Christmas cards and plan and even wrap some gifts…..got to get those off to England!! (sorry about 2 messages)
I think there must be crowd people and not-crowd people, because I’m never wild about crowds in any form … but Black Friday looks almost like a riot to me!
The last photo looks just like our valley village here ! I am not a shopper so black Friday isn’t a problem for me and we have all we need in our little Ma & Pop shops in the small towns around us all home made and hand made country stuff . Lovely photos looks like a great place love the horse and wagon . Thanks for sharing ! Have a great weekend !
Shaker Village in Pleasant Hill is where I go for peace and restoration. No Black Friday shopping for me — raking leaves in the back yard with the neighborhood children burning off Thanksgiving calories.
Perfection! Let’s change name of Black Friday to Nature Friday!
Soooo beautiful my dears! Thank you, for the lovely wake up blog! Your Thanksgiving blog was such a treasure, loved it all, & the wonderful comments! Thank you for that too!!!! No shopping for me either, after my GF & I walked (a gorgeous day), I spent yesterday decorating! Still more to do today & it’s hard to believe the big mess I have made will turn in to something pretty magical! Trying to decide whether to put only wooden ornaments on the 2nd (1st is Santas) tree, or fill it up with all the old treasured ones. When I don’t use all the ornaments, I feel sorry for the ones left in the box – a decorating dilemma! Also, playing Christmas music, competing with football on tv! Continued safe travels through this glorious, beautiful country! xoxoxoxxo
Sounds wonderful Joan! Ha ha ha , the big mess turning to something magical!
I laughed at feeling sorry for the decorations left in the box. 🙂
I really thought I was the only one that felt sorry for the ornaments still left in the box. I guess Susan Branch girl friends really are all connected by heart strings.
Oh my, here’s another one who feels tugs at her heartstrings when looking down at the “leftover” ornaments. I have to laugh when my husband and I are hanging the ornaments on the tree because he only puts on the ones that he likes, being so very selective. But we always talk about their origin as we decorate. Our first tree probably had about 20 ornaments. And now, after 45 years, we have hundreds. As said in one of the recent Hallmark movies … “memories on branches”.
Hi Susan,
First time commenter here. Love your blog! Have enjoyed seeing your trip across the States. I loved the above picture of the white house with a red roof on top of a knoll. Looks like a primitive painting! Beautiful!
Doesn’t it? That’s what I thought too!
I’ll wave hi as you pass through Maryland!
Me too Cathy!
We spent black Friday on the ferry!!!!!! Yippee!!!!!! We waved to your kitties as we went by…today we are going to the artisians fair in West Tisbury!!! That’s as as much shopping as I would ever do I think…but fun to by handmade homemade…..my favorite!!!
Your pictures are heaven….the beautiful wagon….so Christmissy !!! The beautiful landscapes in Kentucky…..what a gorgeous state…
Enjoy every second of your lovely drive home…..
Oh……brought your book ..my sister and I are reading them together here!!!!! = ^..^ =
Oh how fun! Say hello to the island for me. Lucky you and your sister ~ Maybe you’ll see the Fisher Farm horse and wagon downtown Vineyard Haven!
Black Friday is perfect to have my car serviced and get “Mexican Food” for lunch–nice change after turkey, etc. This has been my routine for MANY years and I still manage to get the necessary shopping done on schedule and eat the leftovers on Sat. and Sun. Judy in Nashville,TN
I’m so glad you found Kentucky ! A few years ago we went to see Biltmore in Ashville,NC and decided to take the slow way home and found Berea in Kentucky . A small crafters city that I think you would love. I immediately added it to my “I could live here” list! Have fun
Well, I am really enjoying this trip criss crossing the country with you and Joe, Susan! Kentucky looks beautiful. I don’t know how you post along the road but I’m so glad you do. Keep safe, keep having fun, keep bringing us along! And rabbit rabbit tomorrow!
Good words, Susan. I’ve never been to Kentucky either! It’s VERY charming.
We spent Black Friday having a small tea party. Oh, and we watched one of my scattered alma maters (I was a college hopper) play football.
I’d say it was a perfect day for y’all! We live a few miles from a little town, and we visited two antique shops yesterday. I generally avoid malls from now until sometime in February. Loved the photos of the Shaker village!!! And those Highland cattle — so sweet! Happy trails, Susan. Home is just around the bend over that next hill…
What a wonderful way to spend Black Friday! I’m so glad the only reason I left our home was to sit and have tea with a friend for three hours, catch up on life, crochet, discuss books and eat Thanksgiving pie leftovers. Enjoy the rest of your trip home!!!!!
The Shaker Village in Pleasant Hill looks so lovely! It was the perfect choice to make the Thanksgiving feeling very slowly change to Christmas magic. I’m so happy that you and Joe are meandering a bit on your way home! Enjoy every last moment of your amazing journey!! I’ve been having such fun making Christmas magic here. Last night, we trimmed our tree. Each ornament is a gift from family, friends, and former students. All treasures that touch my heart! ♡ What fun to sit by the tree and read “Christmas Joy” last night! This morning I’m excited to display my folk art Santa collection. Next I will gather evergreens, holly, dried flowers, herbs, and seed pods to fill baskets, antique boxes, and to decorate an antique sled for our front porch. The final touch with be evergreen garland, with tiny, white lights, and big bows for the front porch railings. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!! Tonight I will read “Christmas from the Heart of the Home.” I’ll also begin writing in our second volume of “Christmas Memories.” Over the years, your books always help our holidays sparkle from beginning to end! ♡ Thanks, Susan, for sharing such lovely discoveries as you make your way HOME! Kindred spirits!! Wishing you and Joe safe travels and magical moments!
Warm hugs,
Dawn
♡♡
What a pleasant surprise to find you here this morning. It is a cold and frosty morning here in South Carolina today. The pictures you posted today are beautiful. Simple times. It is so heartbreaking to see people camping in tents in parking lots trying to get a bargain and to actually fight each other in the process. So sad. Seems it gets harder and harder to keep the true meaning of Christmas alive in our hearts by all the commercialism but I know it is alive and well in so many of us. It’s not in a market, it’s in a manger. I love to step outside in the quiet of the night, look up at the stars and try to imagine what it was like on that night long ago. O Holy Night…… Safe travels to the two of you.
Susan,
What a delightful way to spend the day, especially Black Friday; which even the name itself doesn’t conjure up something pleasant!! No one ever seems to talk about that, though.
I met a friend and her darling 12 year old daughter to poke about in some small shops, have lunch and a stop in a bookstore for a gingerbread latte! A lovely way to spend the day. I destest crowds too and you’re so right, it really is like a “riot” which is the antithesis of what Christmas represents!
Enjoy your Saturday and Sunday! Home is on the horizon…I believe we will hear the purrs and meows of Girl Kitty and Jack when you grace the doorstep! Does it get any better???
Love & Hugs!!
Jeanette
Sounds wonderful Susan. Black Friday is now in Canada, but you won”t find me in any part of it. We are visiting our son in Toronto and went to the Eorpean Christmas markets last night where wwe drank hot chocolate, walked the cobbled streets of the distillery disttrict, looked at local artisans wares and heard carollers walking the streets. That’s my idea of Christmas shopping! I just got your new book aand being a Brit ex pat myself, may I say what a lovely book it is. I can’t wait to curl up over Christmas and devour it! Thank you for keeping uch a great record of your trip. My husband is what we call our “British wannaabe” and he will love it as well!
Ah the rolling hills of KY. Peaceful!!! Wish we could meet up in MD. That is one pretty state too. Rolling hills on the way to the Chesapeake Bay…beautiful!
Hi Susan, If you’re coming through Maryland from Kentucky I figure you must be coming along I-68 to I-81? You’ll only be 20 minutes from me! Frederick is a lovely town with wonderful antique shops http://www.visitfrederick.org/blog and you’re guaranteed a free room at my house! After I left the Scottish Roses book on your doorstep last year you asked me to remind you to stop in Maryland on your tour, remember? 🙂
Oh Cathy, thank you for the invitation … it looks like we will turn north at Hagerstown rather than going further south; if we want to be home tomorrow, we have lots of ground to cover. But hopefully we’ll be back for a book signing in your area in the future. xo
I understand. 🙁 Once I set my heart for home I won’t stop even for a yard sale! What did you think of Western Maryland? In Grantsville there’s a wonderful restaurant just off I-68 called Penn Alps. My most favorite restaurant ever!
It was beautiful. We want to go back!
Wonderful! There are so many beautiful places, and events happening in our country, I wish the media would put the spotlight on them, versus black Friday shopping….. What fun your trip has been Susan! I’m looking for a sleigh ride for my hubby and me this December!
Susan, I am so glad you got to visit Kentucky. Your pictures were beautiful! It is a Beautiful state, you were right above me ! I have a friend who lives in Russell springs, Kentucky she owns a sheep farm! she shears , dyes and spins the wool! I will be visiting her next fall. No black Friday shopping for me ever in my whole life!
Oh, if people could just stop and see the beauty of Nature and what Christmas really means , what a wonderful world it would be!
Hugs!
Connie Sue
Good morning Susan! I just LOVE Highland cattle, with those big bangs and short legs, they are so darling! Your pictures of the beautiful, cheerful houses remind me of the Charles Wysocki calendars my Grandma hung in her kitchen…you just know inside those homes it smells like freshly baked oatmeal raisin cookies all the time!
As for black friday, doesn’t the name just say it all? “We don’t leave the house Friday” is what the Urrutia’s have! HAHAAA! But I do love Shop Small Saturday, we have a wonderfully quaint down town with little shops and tasting rooms. Walking through tree lined streets to get there, and spending time chatting with shop owners and finding treasures is so much fun!
I’m delighted for you and Joe that you’re soooo close to your House of Creativity, what a perfect way to begin the Christmas Season….H❤ME!!!
❌⭕❌⭕,
Tawni Urrutia in Lodi, Ca
Oh my, Susan … having moved from Lexington last year, this is a bittersweet and nostalgic reminder of my birth state; I’m happy you and Joe had the opportunity to see some of the beautiful landscape and horse country. I know you enjoy Susan Wittig Albert’s Beatrix Potter’s Cottage Tales book series, so you might also enjoy one of her China Bayles mystery stories, Wormwood, loosely based on Shaker Village. Having spent a great week with my one and only sister and her family here in Alabama, we just now said our goodbyes as they head back to Kentucky. It’s been chilly along the Gulf coast, but mostly sunny … and we stayed far from the ‘madding crowd’ on Black Friday! Wishing you continued safe travels and a relaxing, joyful holiday season …
Sharon in Alabama
Your post this morning with photos brought a smile to my face as we spent yesterday at Colonial Williamsburg with guests. Sunny, crisp, downright cold for here this time of year combined for me Virginia with memories of up north where I lived for so many years. It was beautiful, and yes, do try to make it a stop on a future trip. It’s not as commercial as you might expect. Take a carriage ride, tour the houses and grounds, shop 1700’s and then head to the end of the street to the Abby Rockefeller Folk Art Museum and Merchant’s Square for 20th century more civilized shopping and great places to eat, drink and visit 🙂 Safe home to your beautiful MV – I still get a touch of homesickness for Boston and the Islands at Christmas! ♥♥♥
Happy travels Sue and Joe!! ALMOST there!!! Thank you for the gorgeous views. Used to live in Kentucky. It is a beautiful state. Need to get to the Shaker Village sometime!!… Thanks for the reminder about the Bishop’s Wife and Bell’s of St. Mary.. need to add those to my list of must sees this season. I love the Advent time. I have my calendar and my readings ready to go.. Must dig out the wreath tomorrow…for today I work and then go celebrate an engagement in the family this evening… So wonderful!… I absolutely hate the whole black friday thing.. I never shop during this weekend.. against my principles…I really wish it would just go away, but I guess I am just having a hallucination!! LOL… Not that I don’t enjoy shopping, but you know what I mean!!… Peace be with you as you near your home sweet home!! Take your time, breathe the air, and let it sink in what a wonderful adventure you are on!! The Midwest says happy Advent season to you and all the Girlfriends!!! 🙂
Susan, thanks for sharing the beauty of Kentucky. Shaker Villages seem always to have such a peaceful atmosphere, perhaps because of their basic simplicity.
Safe trip for the rest of your journey.
And, if you want to consider yet another “distraction” on your way home, the Holmberg’s Orchard market store on Rte. 12 in Ledyard, Conn. (maybe 6-7 miles north of I-95) has pear cider!! (as well as lots of yummy baked goods!)
Two of our twelve did some shopping…the rest of the past week has been spent making wonderful memories…conjuring up the Potowatomus in our walk in the woods with four of the grands…collecting rocks, twigs, leaves, berries and then using a black cauldron to make a treat for Mr. P~a friendly creature who takes baths in hot chocolate, uses pine trees for toothbrushes and water towers for wine glasses~the next day our trek back in the woods to the secret well…delight in the 5 year old grands faces when they found a treat from Mr. P…safe travels…off to make more Christmas ornaments…xoxo…
I love it Rae Ann…….I sure miss the woods! 🙂
No black Friday for me either. Spent the day picking up after a busy Thanksgiving gathering for dinner here at the house and then had unexpected company of husbands’ brother and son from Phillie. Love your blog, these pictures are especially beautiful. Home will look beautiful to you Susan when ever you get there. Have enjoyed your trip greatly Thank you!!!!!
Oh, Susan, as I read I just kept saying <"Oh, look, it's so beautiful." Thank you for sharing. I would only hope people would enjoy that kind of pleasure instead of Black Friday non-sense!! I would like to share love, forgiveness and lots of hugs this season. Let's make it happen.
Merry Christmas, Susan and Joe,
Bonnie
I think the Black Friday madness only happens in electronics stores as folks wait in line for the latest gadgets! And yes, sometimes fight over who gets what! But while I am not in favor of this madness, it is some people’s livelihood and they count on that day all year to bring sales figures up. I am just very thankful that we have choices in this country and can choose to just stay in our jammies, drinking hot chocolate and watching old movies instead. I just shopped the antique stores this weekend and found some fabulous vintage goodies. My decorating is complete so it has been fun finding small things that I know will enhance what I have already accomplished! So glad you are almost home Sue and Joe. Must turn the page on my calendar right now!
I heard something new about Black Friday weekend … that the discounts they are giving are so deep that even tho’ they are selling more, they are not making a profit. Yes, we shopped antique stores all the way home! Lots of hot cider!
So happy you discovered Kentucky! It’s on my list of most beautiful states. Just imagine those rolling hills covered in green! We were lucky enough to attend a wedding there last year …one filled with southern charm and gentility. I even found quite a few relatives in historic graveyards 🙂 So happy you’re taking the long and winding road home. Be sure to stop at the Greenbrier on your way to Maryland if you can. Its amazing …and with an underground bunker built by Congress during the Cold War that no one knew about. Joe would love it! Happy antiquing along the way. Xoxo. P.S. It’s in the 20’s in Prescott this morning … Brrrr!
Thanks for the pretty drive, I did not go out shopping but stayed home in my cozy house… however want to take a drive today just to see the countryside of our beautiful southern Oregon…..
What gorgeous expanses of fields and lovely homes. I love the little one on the hill, white with the red roof. What a view – I’d never get any work done, but sit drinking tea and looking out the window. Your Black Friday sounds like it was well-spent. I’m afraid it’s crossed the border into Canada in full force. Ugh. I guess the retailers must use every opportunity they have.
Safe travels and a joyful arrival.
What a beautiful country we have. Taking advantage to take time to breath it’s beauty all in on your way home is the only way to do it Susan and Joe! Some of the pictures almost remind me of a A. Wyeth painting……and as for simpler times and a peaceful non commercial Christmas if anyone is interested – do take time to visit the st.nicholascenter.org on the webb. Traditions, Customs, lots of recipes and so many wonderful things to study and to view and to use. Warm Holiday Wishes to Everyone!
Dear Susan,
I loved this post so much… I could almost hear the little girl saying ” …best day ever!…” Sounds like you had a wonderful time…love that you took a wagon ride! What a gorgeous horse!
These quiet days are such a treasure. Today will be crafts day, hand made with love for my “peeps” and some baking and maybe jam making tomorrow. It can be so much fun, and definitely a better gift ( I consider your books and calendars in the same category, as YOU handmade them) than most of the rest of what can be purchased. But concerning retail, Small businesses get my vote!
Enjoy the lovely sunshine where you are today. It looks terrific. Won’t be long now. You’ll be able to kiss those kitties soon!
Love, Marsha
Oh Susan you picked a pretty little spot to stop and enjoy. You should make a spring pilgrimage to Kentucky, the horse farms with rolling hills of bluegrass are breathtaking. I refuse to partake in the crass commercialism of Black Friday shopping but I do plan on making some purchases today at our small businesses who need our support not just today but throughout the year. It pains me to see how the large box stores have taken over and that people play right into their hands, even more so this year by tempting folks to put their Thanksgiving on the back burner and make shopping their priority. As I packed away the fall decorations last evening, I had the Grinch on and he said something that really hit me! I’ve seen the Grinch so many times but this year a line spoke out to me and it is so true. “Maybe Christmas,” he thought, doesn’t come from a store.” “Maybe Christmas….perhaps…means a little bit more!” Let’s never forget the true meaning of the season. Safe travels home Susan and Joe!
Do you have time to stop in Lancaster County, PA? Absolutely beautiful countryside…great shops…home of the Amish. It is true beauty. SO much to see and do….stop in at the Choo Choo Barn adn ask for Linda or Tom…you will be quite surprised at what you see….a different form of “art”. Safe travels!
Hello and Welcome to Maryland!
So so much. Exactly, the type of adventure our little family loves. We recently returned from a road trip to Utah. Everyone kept asking why why…why not? We love the adventure, the people, the beautiful countryside.
Thank you for sharing with us.
xxxooo
It sounds like you are having a lovely time on the trip back home! I so wish you had made it to Texas! Well, maybe someday? I so enjoy your blog, and look forward to the next post! I actually spent yesterday at work. We own a mustang restoration business (the classic car) and were busy. Going home today after work and planning to start Christmas decorating and baking that Turkey I bought.
What a lovely way to spend your Black Friday! Thank you for sharing your adventure to and from California. Safe travels to you and Joe.
~ Donna E.
What a perfect way to spend “Black Friday!” You were only 3 hours away from me! No shopping for us, either.
One of our sons-in-law left this morning for a week’s mission trip in Honduras. He will return next Friday. Our energies and thoughts have been going in his direction in recent days.
You and Joe have the perfect plan for returning home – on your own schedule at your own speed. Hopefully there will be no traffic disruptions. It appears that the weather will be favorable for your return.
I have set out some Christmas things – those wonderful mugs from a few years back are featured, and have been enjoyed by everyone who is visiting. I will have to focus on them for a picture.:-)
I continue to wish you safe travels!
xo Nellie
HI Susan, your comment about the Sunday drive is what captured my memory. My uncle used to drive us out to the country miles away just to get an ice cream cone. The drive out there was so beautiful, much like the pictures you posted, seeing different seasons the way they were meant to be seen in all their glory. I was in upstate New York, yet the scenery resembled the Kentucky landscape in many ways. Always makes me homesick thinking of those great times. Thanks for sharing!
Fortunately, I am a nurse and work every black Fri! Even if I was off, I would spend it at home with family and friends 🙂 I love that your trip home is so relaxed, going where the wind takes you! That is the best way to see the “real” America!! Thank you for sharing the trip with us.
Looks like a wonderful old-fashioned day! Thanks for sharing it with all of us, Susan.
What a lovely post, though it made my heart kind of ache. I have been here in the Missouri Ozarks for 37 years, but I was born and raised in Ky. My dad (88) and Mom (80) still farm the family farm where I grew up, I have good old Ky. dirt running through my veins :). Do enjoy the journey, it’ll warm your heart on the cold days ahead!
Pleasant Hill in Kentucky is a wonderfully relaxing place – so peaceful & restorative. I’ve been there three times & love it each time,in the spring, the summer (hot!) & the fall (gorgeous).
You’ve had a wonderful journey, but so glad you’re going to be back home. Remember – “there’s no place like HOME”!
I am glad that you saw the beauty of Kentucky! I love it and enjoy it so much when we go for a ride, any time of the year.
Have a safe trip home!
Fun sites you are seeing on your trip home! I love looking at the different houses as we travel, too. Who needs Black Friday shopping!!! I am enjoying the holiday movies that are being shown….warm fuzzies! Safe travels on this last leg of your journey! xo
Most lovely idea to savor the trip and not rush. You ARE getting closer though. Must be nice to know you will soon be home. THERE IS no place like HOME.
Seeing photos of Kentucky made me homesick! I grew up in Cincinnati but that’s just over the river. Now you are passing by close to Pennsylvania where we live now! I hope you are having safe travels! It’s been fun following your journey. Happy Thanksgiving and Happy December! (almost!)
Oh to have a white Christmas one year …The snow and lights look soo pretty, and your sleigh ride whoopie. I bet the little girl’s “Mommy, this is the best day EVER.” brought a huge smile to your faces. Her sleigh ride will be remembered for years, but not the gifts under the tree. It is memories and moments we often remember not things. We are getting bombarded with consumerism here in New Zealand too.
Enjoy your detours on your way home.
Love Leanne NZ
What a beautiful way to spend black Friday. I love your photos…especially the one with the red roofed house on the hill.
Some years ago my husband was recruited to manage the hospitality side of the of the Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill. We have been there many time and have always loved it…we were tempted to take the offer…however, our son was about to go to prep school in Connecticut and we wanted to live closer to where he was so we stayed in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Thank you for this beautiful post…you brought back some wonderful memories. “Happy Trails To You”
Hello road warriors, I’ve always wanted to visit Pleasant Hill Shaker Village in KY. I have a really good friend who has been luring us there. I agree with the above comments about staying off of 95–such a busy road. Take the slow road home and continue to enjoy yourselves. We don’t venture out on Black Friday–too hectic for our souls. Instead we put the tree up and enjoyed a quiet time at home after a wonderful Thanksgiving with family. Safe travels! xoxo ♥
Dearest Susan…. And here I was thinking you were home for sure!!! Well, good for you!! Enjoy our beautiful country and all it has to offer: the pure beauty of small towns, blue skies, freshly-fallen snow on plowed cornfields, and yes, cows in the field. Which, of course, is my favorite of all!!! All kinds of cows, but especially ‘oreo’ cows and long-haired cows!!! (Can you tell my expertise on cow breeds?)
We had two Thanksgiving feasts, one last Saturday and one on Thursday since Rod’s son could not be here for Thanksgiving….we had a special one just for him.
Whew, we’ve eaten a lot of turkey!!!
But, it was so fun and today I’m taking down Fall decorations and boxing them up and cleaning shelves and book-tops and getting down to the nitty-gritty of holiday cleaning! I’m putting away the ceramic turkey bowl, the autumn colored serving pieces and re-vamping our little house with all that is Christmas.
I’m going to start on the lights, too, because next week we’re going into a deep freeze and I’m not hanging lights when it’s 19 degrees outside. I’m hanging them today and then next week I’ll feel so proud of myself as I bake inside with snow falling on the lawn.
Be safe and enjoy every single minute. I would google Christmas festivals, light parades, church bazaars, craft shows and if you’re close to Springfield, Ohio, there is about the biggest antique dealer I’ve ever seen there. But, you know the antique haunts. My point is, drive slowly, sing lots, and be ready to turn right or left for whimsy and fun!!!
Love you lots,
Joann in CO
Isn’t it wonderful to travel and see how special each state is, each one with their own charm? Your trip home sounds wonderful, seeing different places and enjoying the beauty of this country. What better way to spend your time! I’m sure your anxious to get home though. There’s no place like home, especially during the holidays. The kitties will be excited to have you back and I’m sure you’ve been missing your own home despite having a wonderful time on the road. Thanks for taking us with you on your booksigning adventure. Have a wonderful Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.
Hello Susan! What a surprise to find yet another blog of your journey! I am taking a brief break in the midst of “decking the halls”!
Such a delightful way for you to spend Black Friday. I, too, avoided the shopping both on and off line, and spent the day putting away my fall decorations and getting out the Christmas boxes! Always like opening presents all over again!!
This morning (out of necessity) I went for groceries very early, bracing myself for crowds, and was pleasantly surprised. The store was utterly empty of people, well-stocked and clean; and the sales clerks were friendly! I smiled to myself, that I missed absolutely nothing and gained a whole lot by steering our own course as we have done every year, thankful for the “books and ties”! And thinking about what we will create next in our world of art and books!
Your method of travel is exactly the way we love to do it, too, ambling here and there as the spirit takes us! Making so many memories. I am so glad for you.
Well, back to the “decking”.
Wishing you continued delightful discoveries along the way. xoxo
Safe Travels! Please give me a honk when you arrive in CT (I too chose Rt 80 across PA over the dreaded I95; then I84 to the Cape). Rt. 84, Exit 13, just over the Housatonic River.
Thank you for the beautiful photos of Kentucky. I believe you’ve created an itch in me. Perhaps a road trip for my spring break.
Love that wagon decked out in greens and red bows! I spent Black Friday (even the name kind of gives me the creeps) decorating my kitchen window sill with favorite Christmas things, including the little gingerbread house from your webstore. It fits right in. We ate lovely leftovers, watched the Oregon/Oregon State football game. I don’t think I actually know anyone who participates in the shopping frenzy. This week a girlfriend and I will go to one of the local farms to soak in some of the country Christmas spirit, then have tea at a B&B in a nearby small town. Like you, peace is what I seek, especially at this time of year. Have fun in your meandering travels. In my youth I lived in D.C. (worked a block from the White House!) and loved visiting Maryland. You and Joe make me think of the 1960’s song Two for the Road: “If you’re feeling fancy free, come wander through the world with me, and anywhere we chance to be, will be a lovely place.”
Wave to me on your way through Baltimore! I’m yearning for a simple Christmas this year. Love your reports from the road. Today I’m setting up my new SB Day Planner for 2014. Received your new tea tin in the mail yesterday too and can’t decide whether I’ll keep it or put something inside and give as a gift. May have to order more!
As you drive through Maryland and beyond, consider stopping at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA. It is about 15 or so miles from 95 (but quicker if you cut north at Rising Sun, MD and get onto Route 1). Longwood Gardens is amazing all year round, but it is especially magical at Christmas.
Thank you for showing us Kentucky’s beauties. I, too, will never do Black Friday, as it is so greedy and not pleasant at all. I keep wondering “who are these people??” Enjoy your travels today as you meander home along the way. I love the way you two travel. Pure enjoyment of life’s beauty along the way. Simple joys. That is what I wish everyone this season. Simple joys.
Black Friday is dreadful….full of greed with no HOPE in sight. Give me a field of horses on a crisp day…rain or shine…..and a warm fireside at night…that`s my black Friday. Black Friday has been around for awhile, but it is getting so much worse…what are these people teaching their children…GREED….SELFISHNESS…MEMEMEMEME!!! Tragic…….God help humanity!!
I spent some time helping out at Strawberry Patches! Love the ladies! Took my friend home for turkey sandwich and worked on preparing my snowmen wool candle mat! A great day! No shopping for me either! I love that you just stop and smell the roses and share with us. I finished your book and felt sad that I would read no more of your travels! Can’t wait to go back to my homeland and take your journey! Thank you,
I do love Shaker Pleasantville … the country is so gorgeous … as you said … just like a picture postcard, a dreamland. I’ve only visited once and think of it often. I must return! I agree with one of the other girlfriends … you must make your way someday to Colonial Williamsburg — what a treat! Travel safe.
Hello you two! Kentucky certainly looks like a beautiful state. I also thought the photo of the little house on the hill with the red roof should be in a painting. Beautiful. So serene seeing those kinds of sights, isn’t it? And the Christmas wagon. Oh, how it would love to ride that through fields and woods, then get back for,hot chocolate the in front of a fire. No Black Friday shopping for me either. I was curled up most of the day, crocheting, and thinking about decorating for Christmas. Safe travels to you both. I’ll bet you can’t wait to get home, say hello to your house again, and to your kitties. Have fun. God bless. xxoo
Hi Susan: What a fun way to spend the day after Thanksgiving! I turned green looking at the photos of Pleasant Hill! Thanks for sharing the photos–you could do a whole blog on Pleasant Hill!!! A friend bought me one of their straight-sided glass chimneys with the black tin candleholder that goes inside (like their restaurant has on their tables–did you eat there?) At Christmas time I like having that on our dining room table on a runner I wove. We never go out shopping the day after Thanksgiving ever–in fact, neither of us are “recreational shoppers” at all! I hate crowds and the bargains would not be worth the crowds…Smart of you two to take your time and see the sights along the way–who knows when you will drive this route again..also is kind of a little “vacation” after all the hard work. Doing booksignings and meeting the girlfriends, I’m sure, is fun but still “work” in a way… 🙂 Safe travels and thanks for sharing the sights along the way home!
I have been anti-Black Friday for several years now — give me a good book, a steaming cup of cocoa, and — whatever you do — DON’T let me out of my pajamas! Isn’t it funny that we spend Thursday being grateful for what we have and on Friday they want us to kill each other for cheap TVs and knockoff purses? No, thank you!
Have so much fun on your trip — there is SUCH beautiful country between you and home!
Hi Susan, it seems like we just had all the excitement of meeting you at Remnants of the Past in SLO with all the girlfriends (along with a little bit of shopping in your booth 🙂 and here you and Joe are……almost home! Another road trip book perhaps??? Did you have the ham at Shaker Village…..and their pie…..oh my! Looking forward to all your cozy December MV posts once you get settled in and the laundry is done……and Girl Kitty and Jack have been hugged and snuggled with to your heart’s content! We are staying in the lovely little town of Los Gatos here in Ca for Thanksgiving and yesterday started their annual tradition of horse drawn carriage rides through town. Our friend’s adorable yellow clapboard 1928 cape cod cottage is right on the corner so all yesterday evening as we were curled up by the fire watching Hallmark Christmas movies……We would hear the “clip-clop….clip-clop” of the horses outside our Windows….magical! Safe travels to you and Joe 🙂
That’s the way to travel. We love going that way ourselves. In fact, we would have taken off yesterday if the weather hadn’t suddenly taken a turn for the worst (the worst being a five letter word: sleet). Kentucky, the land of the Thoroughbred. One of my favorite breeds of horses. Well, now you’re on the coast, or near it. Something comforting in that….and exciting. From sea to shining sea….. Happy homeward progress……
This blog, your words, and your photos are bringing a quiet joy to my morning. Thank you, Susan, for this glimpse of AMERICA and Americana. Let us bring on a holiday season filled with peace, faith, and love. Safe travels…
I wouldn’t step foot in a mall on Black Friday either. Maybe a little local shop or something, if needed, but there are so many other more pleasant ways to spend the day.
I bet you can’t wait to get home – there really is no place better in the whole world, is there?
Blessing to you and Joe, Jack, Girl Cat and all your family & friends. And thank you for how you inspire all of us to be better people.
Oh Susan & Joe – you are so close. You should cut across Maryland on 50 through Annapolis and jump on the ferry in Lewes to come see Christmas in Cape May. We have a lovely guest room (not as special as Peter Rabbitt’s) all ready. Safe travels.
So glad that you got to visit a Shaker Village! Have you been to Hancock Shaker Village yet? Close to home, and oh, so interesting! We spent Black Friday playing with our little dynamo grandson who is nearly 3 1/2 years old! Today, we took him to the Springfield Museums, his favorite spot! They have DINOSAURS!!!! (ROAR!) and he is in hog heaven there! So glad you are closer to hone! (Maryland is my birthplace! ). Safest travels driving that last keg of your journey. Kiss the kitties for me! Hug your house, and have a cuppa tea!
How wonderful the country side is and I agree no Black Friday for this Girlfriend 🙂 To many stories of people shoving one another and hateful words when we should be Thankful for what we have and that we live in a Country that we are free. My wish is that we need to stop all of this crazy Black Friday (and now it starts on Thanksgiving too 🙁 ) shopping! Glad you are enjoying your back road drive and taking all of us along for the ride 🙂 Travel home safe Susan and Joe(mini Jack too) and enjoy all of the wonders we have in our wonderful states 🙂
Well! I’m glad you took the recommendation, and I hope you LOVED it at Shaker Village! It is indeed a beautiful part of the country here (I live in Lexington) and I’m glad you got to experience it. 🙂
So glad you missed Black Friday. Why don’t people stay home and make gifts for family and friends. Wouldn’t they be much more appreciated? Oh, what am I saying, probably not. Everyone wants an IPhone, Notebook, laptop, etc. Not me though, I’ll take the homemade any day. Love the photos, the one with the red-roofed house on top of the hill looks like a beautiful painting. And the sweet light blue house in the village makes me feel so happy, and wishing I could be there. Hurry back home to the kitties, but keep those gorgeous photos coming.
No store for me either yesterday! I like to gather my things in a more peaceful manner! (Peace is a big part of Christmas for me, too.) A couple of entries back you wrote about being in OKC! That’s only 30 min’s away from where I live…but I’ve been sick. 🙁 I love your book; I’ve read it twice and enjoy it each time I pick it up and leaf through it. Thanks so very much for all the effort you put into it for us! Have a peaceful, joyful Christmas!
Love the country of Kentucky….Nature Friday! What a great idea!!!
So wonderful…thank you for sharing. My mom’s family is from Kentucky but she left in her early 20’s and I don’t believe ever went back. Next year, had she lived, she would have been 100 years old. She did live until 79 so I had her for many wonderful years and feel so blessed. However, I want to visit Kentucky someday… and these pictures just get my glands going so I hope to make it sooner rather than later. Happy travels – love the way you and Joe do it.
You’ve reminded me about the White Rabbit saying for the first of the month. We also, as kids, used to say ‘a pinch and a punch for the first of the month’ and pinch our victims on the arm!!! not so good for the recipient of this game, but it was great fun at the time. Hasten to add I don’t do this now, lol. (ann @ studiohyde in the UK)
Love the pictures! Kinda wishing we were heading to Kentucky in our motorhome! It looks beautiful! But then we would miss the holidays with family! Enjoy your trip home!
For the first time *ever*, I shopped Black Friday. At 6:15 a.m. I was at Tractor Supply, buying farm equipment. -grin-
Christmas is going to be quiet, mostly handmade and spent on the farm. It’s within my power to have the Christmas I want because I’ve made the decision to choose wisely.
Merry Christmas!
We don’t pay much attention to Black Friday either. It’s too much of a zoo for us and not worth the hassle. We’d rather stay in, put some log in the fireplace and putz the whole weekend away. Next weekend we’ll hop over the river and through the woods to the PA craft shows. Much more fun and easier on the eyes. Love your pictures of the KY country side. The one with the red roofed house is great inspiration for a primitive hooked rug, don’t you think? Another way to go to by-pass NYC and all the 95 construction is to take 495 across Long Island to Orient Point then jump on the ferry that cross Long Island Sound to New London, CT then pick up 95 again. Just a thought. We took that route when we were heading for Merrimack, NH and it was much more pleasanter than trying to pick ones way through all that city traffic.
Spent Black Friday helping my friend at her antique & gift shop in our small town. A leisure shopping day when you spend your dollars locally if you are lucky enough to have a historic or vital ‘downtown’ area! Going back to help on “Shop Local Saturday”. So fun to help someone find that ‘unique’ gift….no electronics or popular item that ‘everyone has to have’! We chat with customers, walk them thru the store if they need assistance, give out samples of soaps, specialty foods, etc. & chat some more while wrapping up their purchases. Really can be a lovely day if you put your mind to shopping local!
Thank you for the pictures of peacefulness and simple beauty. UN-crowded is certainly my style for the holidays, and practically anytime really. One of my favorite pastimes during the Christmas season is to look through the stacks of Christmas magazines and beautiful Christmas books I have collected through the years.
Also, I think you might consider writing a book with your special style, about traveling across the good old USA. You have shown all of us some beautiful sights on this trip. It has been a real inspiration for me. (Because of you, I was inspired to visit the Queen Mary! Oh what a treat!) Hopefully I will be able to visit Martha’s Vineyard someday. We all have so much in common, but we all can learn so much from each other too!
Safe travels and Merry Christmas!
Your pictures and stories are wonderful! Thank you once again for sharing.
Kentucky is a beautiful part of the country for sure. I am in UTah so a long was away but I did a great job of getting us lost in Kentucky once…but that made it an adventure…driving down 2 lane roads seeing the real sites…where people really live..and we also remember it as the time we got lost. So glad you have enjoyed seeing the people and this beautiful country….No black Friday shopping for me. I need a simple holiday time!
You were in my neck of the woods…as we like to say here in Ky….I grew up near Lexington and now reside in another hilly area right along side the Ohio river in Augusta…..home to Rosemary, George, Nick and Nina Clooney…..none of which I know:) other than exchanging pleasantries on the street and in church. So glad you enjoyed your time here and wishing you Godspeed towards your little nest. and furbabies!
Hi Susan!
How did you spend Thanksgiving on the road? I’m sure it was adorable!
I am so inspired to travel the way you are…we go to Naples, FL for the winter (from Illinois) and we just pack up our dogs and drive there…two twelve-hour days with one overnight! No more tho…we are going to enjoy our trip and stop along the way and get there when we get there. I cannot wait…you have inspired me so that I will journal as we go…
Thank you and have safe travels!!!
It’s so much fun to read how you and Joe are playing your way home. We’re lucky to have hubbys who have mindsets like ours……relax – don’t race the light – pull over and watch the children playing – poke around this little village and take your time – and let’s stay for the carolers tonight!
The spirit hits me early and hard. My time of year!!! I’m a December baby….just 4 days before Christmas. And you can bet Jodie in Meredith will send me a message rubbing in the fact that I always get to reach a birthday # one year before she does. She always signs it ‘your younger sister’. hahaha
All the autumn/harvest pretties are put away and replaced with sweet smelling wreaths wearing happy red bows. Each window box tells the small story of a brightly painted house, winter flora and snow. Ok, so it’s from a spray can but who cares? Dolly and Maui have given their approval of the tree and are sniffing out the totes of ornaments. The week will be busy and the Nana will be happy.
Be safe, travelers.
What wonderful pictures Susan. So happy you’re taking your time. Maryland is so close to Yardville. I would have waited by the side of the road and waved to you and Joe as you drove by. Keep enjoying the journey into Christmas. XOXO
Georgie
Dear Susan, Visited Pleasant Hill many years ago. So glad it hasn’t changed. It was a wonderful trip through Kentucky and my husband and I many pleasant memories of the horse farms and black tobacco barns and peaceful country roads. Thanks for bringing back some good times! Linda
Susan dear ~ You and yours could have stopped here in TN for hot chocolate and Christmas cookies at our Haven before venturing forward to Pleasant Hill.
Want ideal? When there, lodge overnight in one of the historic homes……as darkness falls, all becomes even more silent and if you perk your ear, you can
listen to natures murmurings. reminding you of the peace and serenity it is
really all about. There is a special light there and non-proficient as I may be,
my camera captures the most mellow and painted-like visions of the interiors….
You will carry that place with you for many years to come…..something like
impressions of England….. Godspeed on your journey home…
Gentility
Hi Susan! What a wonderful surprise to get another blog from you so soon! Happy to see you’re having such a fun and relaxing time on your way home. Kentucky is beautiful! It really puts me, even more, in the mood for Christmas. I’ve never been shopping on Black Friday, and I don’t ever plan too. I just don’t get what all the fuss is about. If you do your shopping throughout the year and tuck things away for Christmas, it spreads out the cost. And allows you to really enjoy the Christmas season once it’s here. But our family isn’t so much into the presents part; it’s more about getting together and enjoying a good meal, playing games, and having wonderful conversations. With love and happiness.
So glad you got to visit Pleasant Hill. We live in Virginia and have made two visits there and loved it. I would go back without any hesitation. Enjoy the rest of your trip,
Dau. and friend came for Thanksgiving so we decided to go “junking”
today and guess what I found? A Gladys Taber book. It’s kinda
grungy but at least I can read my first G.T. book. It’s Stillmeadow
Sampler. Also bought a bunch of linens for $15.00 – mostly embroidered
tablecloths. Can’t have more fun than that for $16.00!
My kind of day Julia!
Peace to enjoy the beauty of the season is all I want for Christmas. We (my son and I) went to my daughter’s for Thanksgiving. Had a good time even though some one hit our car on the way (while we were parked at a grocery store). The guy tried to leave……I guess he thought he’d get away with it but I got out of the car and yelled. Kind people pushed carts in front of him so he wouldn’t leave. My son came out of the store and took it really well. We called the police but they won’t come for accidents anymore unless there are injuries (S.F. Valley, Ca.). But I’m still grateful that no one was hurt and that my son didn’t sock the guy when he kept calling me “girlie”. LOL. The only thing I will shop for personally is the grandkid’s Christmas p.j.s. The stores here are crazy!!! On line sounds good to me…..and home made gifts…. there’s still time!
No black Friday shopping for me! We spent the day getting ready for Christmas decorating. I worked retail for years and I think it’s sad that people spend Thanksgiving shopping and not with Family and friends.
Great to see you in the Midwest!