OK, Downton Lovers, time to cuddle in for the finale. MUSICA Sob. Sob at the beginning, sob at the end. Sob in the middle.
We are ready! We are hunkered down in front of the TV for the finale of Downton Abbey, Season Five (Take this as fair warning, 
if you haven’t seen it, run away from here now!).
I would like to take this moment to thank all of our darling British Girlfriends for being so careful and not giving anything away. I love you for that! It must have been hard! I have to tell you, it was worth waiting for!
Off we go for Grouse Hunting Season (love this scene) . . . something I for one, would never miss. How ’bout you? Who doesn’t love a big plate of Grouse and plenty of catsup? But if you go, fair warning, bring along your own butler, because the one that comes with the house is a real problem child.
Stowell comes across immediately as worse than Dickie’s boys — mean to everyone and arrogant. You would think he was an Earl instead of a Butler. He immediately demotes Barrow to footman of all things, and he has the nerve to call Tom a chauffeur ~ he has NO IDEA who he’s messing with. I pity him.
Perfectly lovely party in the most GORGEOUS green room . . . which Stowell ruins . . . my grandmother used to have this saying, “there’s always a creep in the crowd.” And around the folk of Downton Abbey, that seems to be true. Can’t have a dinner without somebody doing something!
Because Stowell refuses to serve Tom. Look at Mary’s face. He doesn’t realize the Crawleys have a huge code of ethics when it comes to Tom: Hurt Tom, hurt us, hurt you. Right Mary? Go get him Barrow. Here is an opportunity for you to use your immense powers for good.
El Jefe is not pleased, calls Barrow a stupid fool in FRONT OF EVERYONE! Big Mistake. Triple jeopardy.
Hello? Are we on time for the party? Lord Sinderby’s mistress and out-of-wedlock child have arrived, courtesy of Barrow, via Stowell’s big mouth. Stowell is his own worse enemy, “Loose Lips Sink Ships.” What makes this scene really unfortunate is that everyone knows what high moral standards Lord Sinderby has.
Closing your eyes won’t help, we know you’re in there. Everyone has watched how nasty you’ve been to Rose and her parents because they are getting a divorce. Mary even tried to talk you out of it. But Nooooo. You weren’t having it. Happy now?
Don’t cry, just tell me her name and I’ll save you. No need to look like a deer in the headlights, just tell me her name.
Oh Diana, I’m so glad you could make it . . . Let me introduce you, . . . Lady Sinderby? I’d like to introduce my friend . . .
MARY: What’s going on?
ROSE: Help me.
(This is that same wonderful dress Rose was wearing last week when her mother tried to sabotage her marriage. No wonder she’s moving to New York.)
What’s your name little boy. Daniel? Fancy that. That’s my husband’s name.
Lord Sinderby tells Rose he’s sorry, thanks her for her quick thinking, makes her day with gramophone in the Library! She loves gramophones! Robert says to the hypocrite: “She’ll love you forever if you let her.” Lord Sinderby does not deserve Rose, or his wife. Or the mistress either, for that matter.
But say goodbye to Rose . . . she is taking her good influence, her steel-trap of a mind, and her lovely husband and moving to New York to be Cinderella . . . from now on Lord Sinderby, you will have to fend for yourself, no Rose to save you. Yes, but how about US, how will we live without the picture of open-minded, flapper-girl youth that is Rose? Not to mention her adorable outfits? I don’t like thinking about it.
She’s been such a fun fashion plate to have around. Look at the trim on these two dresses! The trim, the pleats, the collar on Mary, the fabric, the colors!
But we still have Mary and she never lets us down . . . this coat is too wonderful for words . . . what a scene it made when she walked into the prison to see Anna. Poor Anna.
The front is as pretty as the back. Anna on the other hand . ..
is a mess. Though she did get out of prison due to her husband’s lying confession. These two! Now he’s gone, she doesn’t know where, he’s alone and wanted for murder. She’s officially more morose than Edith on her worst day ~ too pitiful to even use the front door even when Lady Mary says it’s OK. She’d rather sit around by herself staring at her wedding pictures.
Then the big surprise…Bates comes in and sneaks up on her . . .
For a big Christmas surprise, the best present she could ever get.
Hopefully all charges against both of them will be dropped by next fall and when we see them next January, they will have twins and their murdering days will be over. Do it for them. Do it for us.
Other happy news, Robert forgave his daughter with all the aplomb and warmth a good daddy would have for his little daughter and her lot in life, including the added bonus of respect for Gregson, the absent father . . . he even asked her to forgive him! (The bedtime hair-do and garb is wonderful, she should find somewhere to GO in this outfit.)
Edith is the happiest I’ve ever seen her. Tom let her know he knows about Marigold by telling her that where he came from there were many Marigolds, so now the only person that doesn’t know is Mary. Let’s save that for next year shall we? Dee-licious!
Edith’s looking fabulous! She should be, she’s had years of problems, and lately, most of them have gone away.
Look at this hat in the Beautiful English Countryside. I don’t have a single complaint for any of the hats in this episode, love them all!
Isobel looks wonderful
and this one, I really like this one . . . want to see the back?
It looks cozy for foggy grouse hunting. And who is that guy they paired Edith off with . . . isn’t he sort of a farm manager or something? I didn’t get that part. He must be OK, or they wouldn’t give him a gun and let him take up precious space in the Grouse Season Wagon. Look at all the trouble they made for Tom. Just making sure this man has social standing enough for a Crawley? And isn’t it interesting how none of the women get to shoot? They were, what? Like dinner partners? The entertainment? I don’t know, but I’d rather be in front of the fireplace with a good book.
Wasn’t the ride on the train fun?
Mary looks about ten years old here. Nice hat.
Cora’s nightgown! Gorgeous.
Then this. The Drama of the “Restorative Broth.” Denker goes to the experts for help, which is where they all find out Denker is a terrible cook!
And Daisy’s secret fix, a bottle of her own homemade broth, goes awry . . . when Spratt finds it and pours it down the drain. Spratt rhymes with Brat. Is it possible he and Denker are attracted to each other? Noooooo, too icky to contemplate.
No worries, Denker takes it quite well . . .
And the sweetheart that saves the day is our darling Violet. Who was just the cat’s meow through this whole episode . . .
She dresses up the Princess Eleana in her own clothes and says, go ahead and keep them. The Princess is bitter. Hasn’t got any luggage, hasn’t got the will to LIVE even ~ and the faces Isobel makes while listening to her are priceless.
Seems to blame it all on Prince Igor who looks very nice in the borrowed Theater Royale Tuxedo . . . maybe the hair isn’t dirty? Maybe it’s product? He’s off to Paris now with Mrs. Happiness, I guess we’ll never know.
So, honorable Violet breaks up forever with the love of her life. “Never complain, never explain.” (Think I’ll use that 🙂 ) Luckily she has her BFF Isobel to hash it all over with . . . 
we’re reminded of Royal Wedding Balls and midnight ice skating in St. Petersburg all those years ago. When Isobel asked, Violet wouldn’t say definitively if she ever strayed again after Igor, “Remember, WE were the Edwardians.” Not many people can say that.
“I will never again receive an immoral proposition from a man,” she says to Isobel, “was I wrong to savor it?” NO Violet, you did it all perfectly! Thank you for allowing us to be there for the savoring.
And then this! Two perfectly well-suited people, yearning for each other, kept apart by selfish children who should have a life of their own and get away from England. But Oh well. wah. Very sad, this one. I say, disinherit!
But these two make the best couple of all . . . Best Friends Forever.
And so much more,
Tom, our bridge, and his prayer to Sybil, that brings the two sisters together . . . these three, the ones that “should have grown old with her” . . . beautiful.
And this pretty picture of the future Lords and Ladies of Downton Abbey, Marigold, George and Sybbie. I wonder how much trouble THEY’LL get into when it’s their turn? How CAN Tom take Sybbie away. I mean, poor Robert. I’ll believe he’s going when I see he’s gone.
Well, what do we think about Mr. Henry Talbot, the “uninvited guest” that “fixed everything so that Atticus couldn’t join the shooting party?” I thought he was nice. He seemed sensitive, said, “Young widow.” Was self-effacing. But Mary? Oh nooo. Not that easy.
But then she thought better of the whole thing. Maybe she liked the way he danced. She came out and apologized just as he was leaving . . .
In his very fast car. (I can’t help but think she would worry to see anyone zooming off in a fast car.) I would rather have Tom, but this guy looks OK. He seems to be of her ilk. Can give as good as he gets. If that’s the way they want to live.
Through the whole show these two kept having private little wine tastings.
Then he bought a house and put both their names on it . . .
Then he shocked everyone by saying the magic words “I DO want to be stuck with you. Will you marry me?”
And despite the very obvious missing kisses (my whole self was saying KISS KISS KISS but it didn’t happen), we all cried, even our darling booby sweetheart Carson cried. Did you know? It’s Elsie and Charles. ♥
Please, please, please, can we PLEASE go to the wedding? I would also like a tour of the new house and maybe just one little cup of tea and a biscuit with the newlyweds.
There is so much more that I didn’t even get to, but I think WordPress is going to kick me out if I make this much longer! What a show, what a wonderful show.
And there they go! Off away from us for another year. My new 
prayer? Downton Abbey, the movie. In Juilan Fellowes’ spare time please.
And just so you know, when I’m not with you, I’m not dilly-dallying-doing-nothing, I am writing a romantic kind of book that I think might be just your cup of tea, a little history, a little creativity, a little love story. And, it has come to my attention, that in order to fit everything I want into my new book ~ all the photos and watercolors and other fun things, and not have it be the size of War and Peace, I will have to make it two books! What a relief to finally figure that out! Which means, I am sending the first book off to the editor in about a week. We are getting closer.
The other thing, I have a special give-away for you, something I KNOW you will like . . . but it’ll have to go in the next post because this one is too crazy long. Love you Girls and Boys . . . Downton Abbey Forever! XOXO
Susan, I am hoping that Dickie’s sons are in some terrible accident and both are killed, leaving him free to marry Isobel. Like you, that was the saddest ending but then I hope something will bring them together next season!!
I like your thinking.
Don’t know how you do it but thank you. The still shots give us
a chance to really study the clothes, jewelry and furniture and
just everything. Getting ready to book a trip on the QM for this
summer. You have really opened my world!
You are, Julia? How wonderful for you! xoxo Have a great time!
Oh, Susan ~~~ isn’t it just so hard to believe the series is over for another year! Every time I hear the opening strains of the music I feel as if someone is wrapping a happy blanket around my shoulders, that warm fuzzy feeling inside when you meet up with an old and very dear friend whom you have not seen in ages ~~~ even though it is only a week {or now, many months}
I know some are happy that normal viewing will now be resumed, but I’d rather stay cocooned and cosseted in my Downton Abbey little corner of the world ~~~
I refuse to believe that Tom is going. I believe I am going to stamp my foot and cry. Maybe we could start an online petition to JF aka Kilwillie to keep him in?
You know how bad this is for you and all the Downton loving Girlfriends Across the Pond? Well, we Brits have had to go through this twice! Once on our own, and the second time with you! I have shares in Kleenex.
Waving {between sobs} from Across the Pond ~~~Deb in Wales xoxo
p.s. Two books will be phenomenal! You wouldn’t care to make it a trilogy? 🙂 I can just see it now, two, or three, books in a beautiful bound and illustrated slip cover on my book shelves ~~~
I think it all depends on if I can curb my enthusiasm! words are my downfall!
Mine too! and reading your words ~~~
Isn’t that funny how music association can do that to us! Me too! Maybe Julian will watch the comments on Twitter and everywhere, and know, we want to keep our darling TOM!
I’ve been waiting all day for your recap of Downton Abbey and you haven’t disappointed me. I cried through the whole show while watching it on my iPad at midnight. I know what you mean about Tom. I’ll believe he’s coming to America when they waive goodbye as he boards the ship!
Won’t we cry!
I think this was the best of Downton Abbey! Tears were falling all evening. I can’t believe we have to wait till January of 2016.
I am most anxious to read what you have given us in your new books.
I hope you like it Jeannine!
I loved, loved, loved this last episode, I can’t believe we have to wait another year, how can we bear it? Normally we cannot stand Barrow for the evil that he inflicts on others, but this time is was justified. The clothes, the hats, the coats, Mary’s red coat and Lady Cora’s blue coat, to die. We gasped, we cried, we laughed, I am so glad Julian left us with our hearts full and happy, until next year…
Barrow came in very handy this time! Mr. Catalyst!
The end of Downton always leaves me wanting more! Your recap is delightful!
The sign of greatness!
Hi Susan ~
Your D.A. summary was wonderful! We own Season 5 and had watched the whole thing within two days of its arrival… and every week on PBS anyway, and each episode more than once! Love it so much I could jump into the screen and just live there. *Sigh.*
We also LOVE The Great British Baking Show that’s on before D.A. and now we’re hooked on that! We were rooting for Richard to win, but were very happy for Grandma Nancy anyway. xoxo
I think it will be Richard!
We must be sisters from a different mister… your commentary on DA brings to life every thought I had while watching the show. I am so sad that we have to wait another year to see them all again. I so enjoy your work and I can’t wait until your new book is published. Until then… thank God for your website and updates. Stay warm, stay safe and stay creative!
Thank you Jane! xoxo
I always record it and I am so glad I did. I had to pause it many times to write down some of the one-liners throughout the episode. I cracked up when the Dowager comments about Mary going to the jail and says, “did she place a file in a cake.” Her son says, “Now you would go see your maid and she says only to check to see if the locks were sound.” I have a book of one-liners from the show and I go back and re-read them. Wonderful writing. Something to look forward to next January when, again, weather will keep us in and enjoying Downton Abbey. Looking forward to your new book!
Fun Judi!
El Jefe!!! You slay me with your re-namings, retellings and editorials of Downton. (I can tell you grew up in California) I loved the finale, and the costumes and accessories keep getting more and more beautiful. I have no more empathy for the Anna and Bates drama. Rather a dead story. Let’s move on. I’m also glad to see the Russian storyline fizzle out. He seemed like damaged goods to me; certainly not up to the likes of Violet which she realized in the end. Isn’t she eloquent! I wonder if the writers are that good or if Maggie Smith gets to improvise a little since she seems to know Violet very well. This imaginary family we’ve come to know and love has given us such pleasure. I find they trickle over into my reality, daily. It’s comforting even if it is …..dare I say it…..pretend. Happy “Day After.”
Yes, Joe says you can take the girl out of the Valley, but you can’t take the Valley out of the girl! 🙂 I think we do love the Crawleys, with all their foibles, they are just like us!
Thank you for the excellent recap of the season finale. I love the way you describe the episode and it made me laugh. I needed that today. You will have to resume this next season!
It’s been fun!
Hi, Susan! Yes, it was a fantastic episode of Downton last night. When I saw the back of Mary’s red coat, with those wonderful buttons, I immediately thought of you– I knew you were noticing it and loving it too! And I love the new beau introduced to Mary– he was the adorable guy in “Leap Year”.
I’m looking forward to that day in the future when your new book comes out! In the meantime, I just ordered a couple of Gladys Taber’s StillMeadow books from Amazon 🙂
Thank you again for your amazing blog– always makes my day!
You’ll love them Cindy!
I adore Downton Abbey and it is going to be a long wait until next January…So many intertwining stories…I have to say, I have come to not care much for Mary….She is so selfcentered and such a meany to her sister…Someone needs to cut her down so she can become a caring person..She has a son to raise. And Tom and Edith? hmmmm could something happen there? maybe he goes to Boston, Edith runs her business….in time Tom returns to run
Downton and Edith becomes his wife and returns to Downton and they raise the girls together….Both are very family oriented….Carson and Mrs. Hughes marry and have a darling cottage together and live happily….Mrs. Patmore marries Daisy’s father in law ….Daisy ends up running the kitchen at downton, Anna needs let go of her past of abuse and trust and love Bates and they will have children to love…she needs a daughter to adore and protect. ..She needs to have some happiness in her life…She is trying. Downstairs Tom is a low lifer with too many plans and schemes for any situation, to make himself look good..he is worthless…It will be good for Rose and Atticus to wonder off to America to get away from his wretched overpowering father….Robert will get older (and maybe ill) and not want all the responsibility of Downtown and will hand it over to Tom and that will bring him back from Boston. Robert needs a puppy!…..and Violet and Isobel will be best friends forever…maybe even share Violet’s home…. Time will tell for all of us…I am a hopeless romantic always hoping for happiness for all …..So now we wait…..Thank you Susan for this posting…I was waiting for your take and I knew it would be here today!!!
have a wonderful day..it is sunny with blue blue skies here in the Pacific Northwest….flowers everywhere…Spring should be coming to you fairly soon too….Blessings from my island to yours……..xo
I agree with all you say. I too hate to see Tom go. I too think Tom and Edith would be good together. They are both sensitive and loving people who would raise a lovely family.
And Hughs and Carson are so cute together.
I read that Maggie Smith is not returning next season. She will be missed. I lover her little remarks under her breath but loud enough to be heard.
And Mary, Mary is Mary so superficial and self absorbed. She needs to loosen up a bit. But I love her anyway.
Looking forward to the final season next January.
Oh dear, I read that next season would be her last! I hope that’s the way it goes! I love Mary too. I don’t why, I just do.
Maggie Smith said if they continue past Season 6, she won’t go along. She said she calculated that she would be 110 by then.
She also said she will continue acting. Yeah!
Absolutely loved your recap of the the season finale. Excellent episode. (So very thankful Anna won’t be languishing in jail for the next ten months!) Rose–what a doll she was to Lord Sinderby (and his mistress!), and grand of Mary and Robert to come to her support. Stowell and Spratt seem to be cut out of the same piece of fabric. Excited for the next season!
Great wicked mind of Julian to work out this whole thing so that Barrow needs to do payback and Rose jumps in to save the day, thereby sealing the deal with her father in law. Very complicated and he pulled it all off in one episode. Amazing!
Thank you for giving us something more to look forward to Susan! Two books! Yea! I was so happy Downton ended on a pretty good note for this season. Can t bear to worry all spring thru fall! Looking at the dresses makes me want to re visit ribbon embroidery! Such beauty.Are you seeing any snowdrops yet? None here in Illinois yet. Love.
We have not seen the ground in almost two months! No snow drops!
Susan, your comments on Downton Abbey are as priceless as the series! Love to hear your point of view! I will miss it so but there’s always “Outlander” in the wings in a month!
Lovely post. What exciting news! Two books! Sign me up! Huzzah!
For those of us who cannot bear to be without Downton Abbey, here is something to ease the sting, The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel opens on March 5th. And who do you think is starring? Maggie Smith and Penelope Wilton (Violet and Isobel)
BFF Vicki – you are correct that the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is outstanding and I can’t wait for “the SECOND….” This week – YEAH! This will help because I will miss Downton something awful!!!!!!
Spot on !! How will we last until next January? Well by watching the Season 5 DVD of course……………I’m sure that we will see lots of little nuances that we missed. How I wanted to be in that garden with Violet and Mrs. Crawley for a tete a tete. …………and the looooooog dinner table set so beautifully was a sight. How about the wagons leaving for the shoot with the beautiful castle in the background? I, too, will believe that Tom is gone when I see it with my own eyes. It’s like a wonderful friend leaving on a trip, but how wonderful when that friend returns…a whole year……….oh my!!
I wanted to be in that garden too!
AGREED, AGREED, AGREED! I’m so glad this season had a happy ending!
Connie B
Susan – The first words I said to myself when I woke up this morning were, “She said YES!”. Downton Abbey was near perfect last night – the only thing that else that I would have loved to see happen was Cora giving Robert a puppy for Christmas:) – And naming her Lily or Abigail or Jennie…… Thank you for letting us re-live last night’s highlights with you. Carry on….
You nailed it, where was the puppy! There would not have been a dry eye in the house!
Dear, Dear Susan…I am looking forward to your new books so much!! Cannot wait! Sunny here in Indiana but a snowy, sleety, rainy mess coming in for tomorrow…but Spring is coming. I have faith!! Thanks for being you…”talk” soon!
Best finale ever. Yes, I want my books, my movies, my curiously short T.V. seasons to end in a beautifully wrapped package all tied up with a silk ribbon. Well done!
What a fabulous season finale! You have captured it beautifully, Susan. My secret wish, all season long, was for Carson’s proposal to Mrs. Hughes. I have been waiting ever since last season’s walk on the beach. So many happy tears!!
Two books!! Twice as nice!! We are so excited to hear that ‘our’ first book is heading off to the editor soon! What a joy it will be to curl up with your newest book and a cup of tea, Susan! Enjoy every moment of writing and painting!
Happy hugs!
Dawn
♡♡
Thank you Dawn!
Thank you for the wonderful recap of Downton. I loved every minute of the finale, with a few tears here and there! What will we do til next season? Can’t wait to see your new book. Hugs!
I loved this episode! How are we going to survive all the way to January 2016 with no Downton?!
perfect recap! Thanks Susan. Can’t wait for the new book. Now kick up your heels and take a break and get the ‘bands’ from Jack that I know have been piling up around the house!
Last night’s finale and your recap were just splendid! I laughed. I cried. It was the whole kit and caboodle. When Carson proposed, I almost leapt from my chair. FINALLY! The clothes, especially Mary’s red coat with buttons, were swoon-worthy. And didn’t Cora have Robert’s number all evening? Barrow using his powers for good? He outdid himself. Just when I thought things couldn’t get any better, I read your post and learn that there will be TWO BOOKS!!!! It’s almost more excitement than I can bear! Oh how you spoil us so. Plus, Julian Fellowes doesn’t know when Downton will end, so Season Six may not be the end. Hooray!
Yeah I kind of heard that too…that maybe Six won’t be the end. Mmmmm. Don’t want to get my hopes up. It’s perfect the way it is.
Susan, I just love your comments on Downton Abbey. What a great final episode….it left me happy with a smile on my face.The thing about DA is that it’s the gift that keeps on giving. I have no problem watching them over and over (I bought the DVD’s) and thinking about it all as I do my gardening. Really looking forward to your new book….take care, Donna
I see so much more each time I watch. That’s the mark of a very good job!
Love your recaps. Like whatching the show again!
I can’t stand it that it’s over for 10 months! Well, on to Midwife and Mr. Selfridge. Thanks for the update and the pics. Love these costumes! So glad Daisy is still there, Elsa and Carson are getting married and running a B&B, the siblings and Lord Grantham reconciled, his heart troubles were really an ulcer, and Bates came home to be with Anna! I wondered though about the staff at Christmas – weren’t they allowed to go home to be with their own families? Wonder how that really works in the grand homes of England. Love the Musica – it’s still playing on my speakers. Bye for now!
I think a lot of them didn’t have families, I’ve heard that in the early days they didn’t like them to be married.
Thank you for your post today. It might sound silly but I enjoy reading your life updates as much as I enjoy watching Downton. Last night was wonderful. I found myself teary eyed several times but the engagement opened the flood gates. I heard on the news this morning that Maggie Smith said Season 6 is the final one for her…….it is her decision. I am sad, I adore her characters wit. What will we do when Downton Ends?
She has truly given us so much . . . Love her, what a trooper.
We can always go see Dame Maggie in The Second Exotic Marigold Hotel, which comes out this Friday. If it’s anything like the first movie, it will be charming.
I could hardly wait until I read your follow up blog for last night’s Downton Abbey. You are so much fun. Thanks for taking the time to share the photos and your musings.
I hope your book will explain how you went from doing whatever you did to earn a living prior to Martha’s Vineyard to becoming an artist. Surely you didn’t just wake up one day, go buy some water colors and a sheet or two of paper and turn into this artists you have become. I can’t wait for the book.
It will tell all of that, and show it too.
wasn’t it a lovely episode?
and wait….. 2 new books?
oh bliss.
Two will be more fun than one! I’m so excited about this.
I could almost feel something brewing with you….not surprised that there will be two books. How awesome is that? So looking forward to “the whole set.” (Maybe there could be more). Keeping Blog Daddy in my prayers while he is going through his treatments. Enjoyed the recap of DA for the last three weeks. My DVR didn’t record the last three episodes and my daughter is in the hospital (looks like baby #2 will be arriving early, hoping to at least make it to 36 weeks), so I gave in and read the blogs. I’ll watch them some other time. Still good to have a feel for what’s been going on.
You are so right! You start out with one intention, but then the thing gets a life of its own and pretty soon it’s telling you what to do! That’s why I hate to say “this is the way it is” because tomorrow it may all change! Blessings for your family, your daughter and your new baby!
Oh!! The finale was TOO perfect!! I cried, I laughed, I loved every minute! Thank you so much for posting these recaps. It gives us one more thing to connect with as a community. Random thoughts: We definitely need to bring hats back!!! I love how Rose has matured since we first met her – she and her wonderful new husband are too terrific to lose – bring them back in Season 6 please! I even like her clothes better than I did at first! I hope the influence of the Earl, and now Lord Sinderby, will allow Shrimpy to keep his job in the diplomatic corps. (they aren’t real, they aren’t REAL) Love how there were two references to ‘a small group,’ ‘a cozy party,’ then we see them seated around a table the size of an aircraft carrier! In a preview, Hugh Bonneville (Robert- who plays a great jolly drunk, btw) said of their shoot in Northumberland, “Highclere is nothing to Alnwick.” I wonder how the Earl of Carnarvon felt about that! 😛 But he was right – fabulous – and that scene with the horses and wagons passing in front of the castle – fantasy stuff! Wait……..uh….. I wonder if I was alone in not being all that impressed by the new guy they paired Mary with? And Edith with the Estate Manager? Meh. Finally, I read in an interview today, Maggie Smith says season 6 will be her last, regardless of whether they carry on. She speculated Violet must be about 110 by now! So, we will no doubt have a tear-jerking goodbye deathbed scene next season. Best season ever. I might have to buy the DVD this year.
LOL, I know, they aren’t real! Please, no death bed, let her ascend, compete with fluttery little wings.
Maybe, the prince will come back for her after all! After he dumps that mopey old princess. How could anyone live with that?
It doesn’t seem to me that they ever had a good marriage! Here she is lost, and he isn’t even looking for her!
I don’t know which is more satisfying- the season finale of Dowton or reading that you have written a romantic book complete with art work.
I will take both!
Me too!!
Amen, and amen!!!!!
Hello Susan and girlfriends….last night was an evening well worth waiting for. I sat with my tissue box in sight savoring every moment of Downton. Your description of events was almost better than watching the episode on television. Wonderful job Susan! Downton goes away for a year and we are the blessed ones to have you and you are here to stay. Thank you for being the wonderful giving person you are.
Oh Dot, you are so sweet — ALL of you are, it’s a pleasure to share this time with you!
In the opening scenes I knew I was going to love this episode. And I did. OMG it was the best ever. In no order, didn’t you adore mr. Mosley and Baxter going to the pub to find out if bates had been there. He is a really good man. And stonewall made thomas look like a saint, aren’t we glad he was on our side when it counted. I was disappointed in Anna and Mary, when Anna came home, mary should have insisted that anna use the front door, there is still the upstairs downstairs thing. Too bad. Loved, loved ,loved the ending,when Bates picks up Anna, all I could think of was, they need to get the heck out of Dodge! They need to go to America and Tom needs to stay. Christmas at downton is more than beautiful, just wanted to freeze the frames and stay there. So much went on last night I need to think about what I want to happen next year. They are going to have a hard time making a better episode than last night. All I know is that there really needs to be a baby lab show up in one of the episodes, any color will do. Can’t wait to read what others say. Hoping your weather is getting better. Debby
We couldn’t miss it, but it is on passed Arnie’s new scheduled bedtime, so…We cheated. We found it in British format on-line. And for that person hogging Season 4 in VB, we started watching that too. Ha..Ha!
What a great ending and Christmas too!
Now I am looking for your roasted green bean recipe. I have forgotten the oven temp. and what the seasoning was.
XXX
Margot
425 or 450 . . . toss with a bit of olive oil first, spread on cookie sheet, into hot oven, turning once, until they begin to brown, I think maybe 20 min . . . salt and pepper and devour!
OK…I am writing this down now!
Oh, I couldn’t wait for your “Downton Abby” commentary! What a wonderful episode. I didn’t want it to end. It’s a wonder that no one in that household has chronic acid reflux. I’m always bracing myself when they have dinner. If it’s not the guests, it’s the staff. It’s strange to me that the women stand around during grouse hunting, watching birds get blown out of the air with ear blasting gun shots. Not to take away from all the goodness and sweetness in this episode. I read today that Maggie Smith will not return after next season. Does that mean there will be a another season in 2017? Fellows is starting a new series set in the Guilded Age in NY (I think that’s correct). Can’t wait for that. Thanks so much for your post – such fun!
I’ve heard that next season is the last . . . but maybe not? I really don’t know.
Hi Susan! I must say I absolutely love your commentary on yes, this “wonderful show”. Yes, poor Mr. and Mrs. Bates…but fortunately for us they aren’t the only “criminally minded ” pair at Downton Abbey. Don’t you love that? And I think the gentleman paired with Edith for shooting Grouse was an “agent” for Lord Talbot. Maybe like Tom is the agent at Downton ? I had tears in my eyes when Tom, Mary and Edith joined hands in remembrance of Sybil…his devotion is unwavering! And the clothes!! They are so luscious! And they look really comfortable too!! So thank you for your posts on this! And by the way, I, for one, never think you are dilly-dallying. I know you are always hard at work on “the next thing”. I have been following your work for years which is a staple in my home.
Warm wishes,
Laurie A.
Yes, his devotion. People leave us, but those moments of intentional remembering are wonderful. Thank you Laurie!
You did a wonderful job of reviewing DA! I cried (the prayer for Sybil, Carson asking Mrs. Hughes to marry him, and more) and laughed (Violet’s one-liners)and gasped (mean princesses and lords) and worried (so glad Lord Grantham just had an ulcer and no angina) and hoped (please no more murders for Anna and Bates) and sighed (at all the beauty)… A good time was had by all at our house (so glad my husband enjoys it too).
Did you read the NY Times interview with Julian Fellowes? It was quite good. Also, Maggie Smith is in the new Exotic Marigold Hotel movie (can’t remember exact title) AND a movie being released in November 2015 called The Lady in the Van – based on a true story about a homeless woman living in a van in the driveway of a writer – for ~15 years in the 70s and 80s. It looks wonderful.
Thanks for keeping DA going and the wonderful “recaps”. January 2016 seems a long time from now… But it will be here before you know it.
You are so right, it will be here before we know it. I’m happy to wait and look forward to it. Thank you for all the good info!
Dear Susan, it’s me again, I thought I remember the quote about “never complain, never explain” being attributed to the queen mum. And did you notice how much little George looks like Matthew? Debby
He does!
Oh Susan…..we didn’t watch it til this morning but what I wouldn’t give to have you sitting in our livingroom when this is on. We could cry and talk over the scenes and miss so much we’d have to watch it again right away! What I truly love is that we are free to let our imaginations fill in the unseen parts of the days between what’s being shown on the film. Mr Barrows was just on top of his game last night, wasn’t he? Now he’ll probably go back to being someone I’d like to see tucked into the bonnet of the car that takes Tom and Sibby to the ship…..dump him overboard! Oh….and stuff Spratt the Brat in with him. Now we can only wait for January (itty bitty sob).
I was impressed with the athleticism of Mr. Henry Talbot. No need to open the car door when one can so effortlessly jump into a small sports car seat wearing a big, billowing overcoat!
LOLS!!! Yes, and while that funny music was playing..hahahaha. That Henry is GORGEOUS!!!!! OOOOOOH LALA
Love, love, love….the characters, the clothes, the hair, the jewelry, the area…the whole story!! Oh how I will miss you Downton, for one full year!! Nothing can replace you!
I thought about you while watching last night’s finale. Two hours just flew by. How I loved the dresses and hats, worried over Robert and actually rooted for Thomas. I inwardly cheered Tom and Robert’s speech, sighed at Mary’s rendition of Silent Night and blubbered at the proposal. How this show brightens the grey winter days. I wish my name was Violet. I so love this show. We need more like it. I enjoy your posts and Downton recap.
I know, sometimes I wish my name is Violet too!
My husband cried a couple of times last night, and that proposal was one of them.
Oh! What a delightful blog post today, Susan! Reliving Downton Abbey! Very special indeed! But – it is ten whole months until next January!
Very exciting to hear that your book will be a two-volume set! Off to the publisher already! Wow! Now just to work on that second volume!
Warmer temps and rain have worked on the ice and snow around here. There is, however, another chance of winter by the end of the week! It appears that groundhog was correct this time!
Sending along happy thoughts!
xo Nellie
Not off to the publisher, off to the editor, then back to me for artwork. But very soon! Stay warm Nellie!
Oops! Rushing things along a bit, wasn’t I? Well, the editor is sure to be thrilled with what you have sent!
Temps here were at 72 degrees at 5:30; dropped to 52 degrees by 7:30; ice, then sleet, then snow before ice again in the next 24 hours! Time to enjoy that extra cup of tea in the morning!
xo Nellie
It is NUTTY out there, weather-wise . . . Under the streetlights our street looks like an ice skating rink, and a big storm is coming in with more snow. I just got my first cup, am about to start writing . . . writing . . and so forth… 🙂 I will put my head up in a bit and find that it has suddenly become 3pm! Have a wonderful day Nellie!
Susan, I have yet to see even one episode…I’ll have to buy the dvd’s. I wish wearing big beautiful hats was fashionable now. I love those hats. Of course I love dressy gloves also. Blessings, xoxo,Susie
Oh, Susan, I’ve been checking all day waiting to hear about Downton Abby. It was really fun to to watch, but sad to think we have to wait until next year to see the next episodes. I figured out wby our dear Rose is leaving for New York with her lovely new husband. It’s because she is the new Cinderalla. She is now to become a movie star. Plus, I’m rather pleased with the looks of the new man that seemed to delight Mary. I think I’m as big a fan of the show as you are. Oh, and last but not least, wonderful news about your latest book. I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy!
It is sad, I know how you feel. Don’t worry we’ll find something else!
Hi, Susan. I had my tissues ready for this episode & used them. Love the costumes & jewelry, too. The new movie, “The Secomd Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”, which features Maggie Smith & Penelope Wilton, is being released on Friday, March 6th here in the US. I enjoy watching these seasoned British actors on TV & the movies. Richard Gere is in it, too. Can’t wait for your new books to be published & placed in my delicate hands to treasure & to read. I will have my son, Matthew, be first in line again to have them autographed when you come to NYC. LOL Be well, be happy, enjoy Life! Tootlepip, Barbara, NYC xoxoxoxoxoxox
How will we survive a year with no Downton drama??!!! I’m tempted to find a job in England just so I can see next season in the fall. Or maybe just vacation for two months.
Thanks for the recap of last night’s main events.
Jill
Good idea!
This is the first year I have watched Downton Abbey, so I have enjoyed your comments immensely. I was so happy that Carson proposed. And, yes, the train was spectacular; I adore old trains. So sad for Isobel; I was rooting for them! I also wondered what was the purpose of having the women along for the hunt. Weren’t the old cars gorgeous, too (when they traveled to Lord Sinderby’s)?
The cars are wonderful!
And those “hunting” clothes that the women were wearing! Oh my! I almost love them better than the fancy gowns. That red “visiting prison” coat that Mary wore with the adorable hat was impeccable! I want it all! I wonder if they’ll get to keep any of their favorite outfits once the show if officially over?
Wouldn’t that be wonderful!
Reading your post was better than watching “Downton” and watching the show is totally amazing so you can see what that says about your post.
LOL, well thank you . . . it’s nice of them to give me such good material to work with!
I can’t get enough of Downton Abbey! We have the dvd so we did a marathon a few weeks ago. Then we watched the extras because we didn’t want it to end. I was afraid to post anything lest I let anything slip. Love that they let Barrow’s leash off…he didn’t disappoint. I loved that Carson proposed to Mrs. Hughes. The clothes are just stunning. There are just so many great things about this show.
Enjoy your week!
I cried when Carson proposed. Then she called him an old booby and that made me laugh! I didn’t think he had it in him to propose. I will miss this show!
That was a brave thing for him to do!
Yes, it’s like “Remains of the Day” except these two actually manage to get together. Thank goodness!
Right! Wasn’t remains of the day irritating? I loved the movie but I wanted to reach in and grab him!
I loved the episode all over again by reading your wonderful post! Heartbreaking that we must wait another year. Tom better come back to Downton, otherwise I’m going to Boston to look for him
(He’s not real) — and in fact, in regard to my comment before this, I forgot, neither are Mary and Violet! 🙂
Susan-I love your take on DA. Your comment on Prince K’s hair, “Maybe it’s product?”, was so funny. I think Mary is a younger version of Violet. They are both beautiful, sharp-tongued, and at times, caustic. There is also a vulnerable side to them. In the future Mary will also be the Dowager with a past that includes a great love and an affair. They are more similar than different and I really like both.
I along with everyone on your blog will miss the show and your reviews of
it. Jean 🙂
I totally agree that Mary is younger version of Violet. It always seems to shock her when the rare time occurs that Violet disapproves of her. Mary will soften with age and be just the same.
It was a magnificent last show for Downton. Very touching. No one died. Whew! Leaves a lot open for new story lines. I am excited to hear about your two books. Yipee! Something more to look forward to. Tonight I am going to watch DA again. I get so I can almost recite the episodes word for word. D-e-l-i-g-h-t-f-u-l !
So right, whew, no one died! I think maybe Julian learned his lesson. Do NOT shock the viewers!
A lovely, lovely post! There are so many things I could comment on…but I will choose one…THE GREEN ROOM. My Mother and I gasp when it came on the screen! I didn’t want to leave it. I think they should have a special episode where we all get to tour the ENTIRE castle!!
I will be dreaming of that green room from now on! Green chairs too!!
Sigh.
It really was something else wasn’t it!
Dear Susan,
So very happy to read your delicious post on Downton Abbey. It’s wonderful
to get a lovely glimpse of England at that time- I think Mary said the year was somewhere near 1910. My grandmother would have been living in London then (but on a modest street in a tiny row house). She moved to the states and always retained her charming accent.
So much happiness this episode. So very sweet for Elsie and Charles! (No, I didn’t know their names.) I’m sure I’ll watch it again tonight on line.
I think it might be either 1924 or 26 as of last night — somewhere around there. Anyone know for sure?
1924
When I read today that Dame Maggie said “no more” to Violet after next season , I had to face the grim reality of What Will Probably Happen. But I tell you for true, I am going to wear those DVDs out. Downton lives in my heart! And I wish in my wardrobe, at least for the dresses worn with such elegant ease by the women. I doubt any of them gave a second’s thought to the amount of work entailed in designing, cutting, stitching, pleating, embroidering, and tailoring those dresses and coats. I am not an artist like you, so seeing and constructing things spatially just doesn’t come naturally to me! You are quite correct, Spratt the Brat, and I never, until watching it again recently, noticed that Spratt was also “downstairs” on Gosford Park, with Dame Maggie reigning above. Tom did finally get to use his evil powers for good (well, sort of), Edith’s secret will surely completely spill out of the closet next January, Tom once again showed his beautiful, gentle heart in the “many Marigolds” speech, and the image of incensed Mary at the dinner table could freeze a summer’s day. She will fall for the one who peels off in his true four-wheeled love, leaving her standing breathless and giddy on the gravel. What an episode — and Mrs. Hughes will marry the old booby 😀 I will try not to see spoilers on UK websites in the fall from the lucky Brits who actually see the Christmas episode when it’s seasonal. Besides Downton, WE get to look forward to TWO books! Which helps to ease the pain…sniff, sniff!
Sniff, sniff. xoxo
Well Done! What a gift! You have gathered the delicious dresses, dishes, wee darlings and our Violet in a lovely bouquet! Love your writing 🙂
Thank you Arlene!
And how about that powder blue skirt suit of Violet’s at the train station?! I just adored that! The hat and all! You are right….she and Isobel ARE the perfect couple…it took awhile for them to get there but they do enjoy each other’s company so much. There’s still Dr. Clarkson if the bratty brothers don’t come around next season for their ol’ dad! The whole night was perfect! The Christmas scene with that gorgeous tree and all the servants and land tenants surrounding the room singing Christmas carols. Robert, tipsy as he was, managed to come out smelling like a rose….thanks to Tom, Mary and Edith! I love the 2 contrasting scenes of giftwrapping…..Mrs. Hughes with her very down-to-earth brown wrapping tied with simple red string and Cora with her metallic wrapping paper and elaborate ribbons! I love how they really capture the drastic difference in living quarters with the dark, gray, brown kind of dingy but very homey dwellings of the downstairs people (such as the Bates’ home and the places that Mrs. Patmore, Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes visited, which I LOVED! I’d take any of them in a heartbeat!) If Anna and Mr. Bates don’t get some happiness next season, well, I just might fly over to Julian Fellowes estate and give him a piece of my mind! LOL! That was AWESOME what Barrow did! I was happy for him to put his devious mind, as you say, to good use! Well played, Thomas! Hope he finds some happiness, too, to pull him out of his bitterness and mean-spiritedness. I think there’s a nice guy in there somewhere! I am totally in love with Mr. Talbot! In my opinion, he and Mary are a much better match than Mary and Tom. She’s so haughty and had some pretty nasty things to say to Edith which I did NOT appreciate at all! And yet, how sweet, when Edith took her hand in the bedroom for a prayer for their sweet Sybil. Daisy and the new footman (or whatever his position is)? Mrs. Patmore needs someone! Molesley and Baxter are adorable together. The man that Edith was paired with was the 3rd cousin to the Lord of that estate, right? So, royalty in there somewhere. He seems very sweet….down to earth for her. Hmmm…..yes, hopefully we will have some weddings to attend! Thanks for letting us debrief, love! It’s so much fun coming here! xoxo….Karen
What is not to LOVE!!? Love your comments too! All so fun ;D
I always love reading your Downton recaps Susan 🙂 For more gorgeous costumes you really should watch or re-watch the BBC series ‘The House of Elliot’
amazon.com/HOUSE-ELIOTT-COMPLETE-COLLECTION-REISSUE/dp/B00EF0NVGQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1425339090&sr=1-1&keywords=the+house+of+elliott
I’ll do it!
I second that! I absolutely loved that series. Saw it years ago (I think it was on A&E) and just bought the series on DVD to watch all over again. And I’m so glad that last year I got to see the Downton Abbey clothing exhibit at the Winterthur Museum in Delaware. If you think the clothes look beautiful in HD, it’s nothing compared to seeing them in person. My favorite was Sybil’s harem pants outfit. But the biggest surprise was the stunning detail in Edith’s wedding dress, which didn’t show up on screen. I must have taken over 100 pictures.
Fun!
I second the recommendation of “The House of Eliott”. A wonderful series and lots of fashion eye candy. I’m convinced you’d love it, Susan.
Oh, and a few more things….Isobel will fight for Lord Merton, Mary will see the car man again, hoping it will be a blessing for Edith with the agent, Mr. and Mrs. Carson….finally! Love Lord Grantham and Cora’s clothes……and LOVE Rose and Atticus. Fabulous Violet and Lady Sinderby. Oh, and Mrs. Patmore and the farmer….could be! Mosely and Baxter of course….
Oh you missed my comment…So I winged it with the green beans. I did 375 and put some Cretan salad herbs on top. Just put olive oil all over me…especially in this weather. LOL
Sounds good to me!
Loved the night! The way were intwined the love stories and the Christmas story and beautiful music..who would not love it?
I just wanted it go on….
DA ended with tears in my eyes. My, my, how real they all became to all of us! Then I smiled to my self. Susan will help me see all that I didn’t see or hear. What a pleasure to read your blog and to have all those wonderful friends enjoying the same thing. And now, even more exciting, your new book. Its all too, too much 🙂 To better understand where I am coming from, I am 80 years old, and watching by my self. That’s why I feel the kind presence of lots of friends (girlfriends) when I know you are all watching at the same time. Lets keep the fellowship going. Kind thanks to you Susan! May I say “my friend”? Toni b
Of course! Much more fun to watch it together!
80 years young Toni…how wonderful!
Maggie Smith is one of my reasons to keep going and to keep sharp! 🙂 Hugs to all toni b
Maggie Smith is 80.
If only I had a prince to give up! sigh, sigh. 🙂 toni b
I love it!!! There are some great groups around my town. I hang out with the folks 65-80+, because they are more fun! Youth is overrated!!!
I’ve really enjoyed Downton Abbey. I’m surprised so many have joined me. My favorite part last night: “Was I wrong to savor it?” *sigh*
Hi Susan, another wonderful post. Downton didn’t disappoint and neither did you! The whole thing was wonderful, even Thomas and Mary had me cheering. Violet is pure perfection and the person I wish I could be, and dear booby Carson made me swoon. I was saying the same thing…Kiss,kiss,kiss! The whole thing warmed my heart. Now if only my hands and feet would get warm as well! I love winter, but I am soooooo ready for Spring!
Ha ha ha, yes, the hands and feet would be good!
Oh how I love your recap of Downton Abbey! It was because of you that I even started watching this amazing show. When I found you, I found Downton Abbey. I share your love of this incredible series and look forward to Season 6 Jan. 2016.
Yay!
My good husband and I look forward to your comments as much as Downton Abbey on TV. You both are delightful and fun, adding to our life enjoyable charm. Looking forward to your new book with its words and art.
Thank you Roma, hello to husband!
Oh my, 2 books!!!! News doesn’t get better than that! Thanks for such fun news to brighten our Downton Abbey season 5 sign off this year. Susan you know just what girlfriends need. Oh, happy day!
I just got an e-mail that Michael’s has art supplies, watercolors and brushes, etc. on sale 40% off this week!!! We don’t want you to run out, we need that book. 🙂
I just got a whole new stash of brushes, paints and paper!
That is the way it works for me, the sale comes out just AFTER I buy what I need. :-/
I wish I had seen Downton Abbey as a child. My grandmothers name was Violet Irene and my mother Irene violet………if I had known the Dowager when I had my daughter she would have been Violet Irene for my grandmother but that name did not suit my at the time
Great write up……..I adore the costumes and hats. Its funny that even into the 1960s we called a “suit” a costume and it was, shoes purse gloves and hat all made the ensemble. Never owned pants until I came to the States.
Janice
Both your mother’s and your grandmother’s names are beautiful!
Ohhh, this was the absolute Best episode of the Best season on Downton yet, I think! Thank you for recapping it! That was Fun! You do do such a nice job! Ahhh…. I will savor it until next January! In the meantime, ….How soon do you think it will be until your first book will be available? Can Hardly wait! Is the snow still falling at your house? You must be pining for Spring in the worst way! Make lots of pots of tea and stay cozy!
Hugs!
I’m painting as fast as I can, when I get closer, I’ll let you know . . . I’m very excited about it. I love going into that world every day. It’s just getting light here . . . no snow coming down yet — plenty still on the ground. You too Laura, stay cozy!
I liked Mary’s subdued exclamation with a twinkle in her eye seeing Talbot’s car, “Snappy chariot.”
Yeah, actual 20’s slang!
Love, love the show. I have watched it from day one and of course last night.
However I really enjoyed your blog and photos, what a great job you did.
Sincerely,Lillian Taylor
Thank you Lillian!
Hello Susan! I did not read this blog! I have held out long enough! My friends are Downton gals but I don’t watch much except HGTV. But now I’m hooked! I binge watched season one Saturday. Season two will be on my list for Thursday. A friend is coming to watch with me. She’s already seen it. I can’t believe I waited this long! Love the dresses, china, rooms and all! Thanks for introducing me to another good thing!
Oh good, another happy convert!
Now we just have to talk my Ethel into watching it!
Together you two would have so much fun with this!
What wonderful news about your book(s!).
I loved the ending of this season, now what do I do till next season? I could read your book again for the third time. Please…Please come back to the Westfield Atheneum for a book signing on your new book, it was so nice to meet you there last October. I am sure Ann Koerber will agree.
Happy March to you and Joe. Hopefully there is green grass and flowers under all this snow.
That would be great!
heloo Susan, good afternoon girlfriends well its a bit past tea time here, isn’t tea time around 4 p.m.?? for thosw of you who want those gorgeous clothes and hats from Downton Abbey, try looking at the Victorian Trading company, http:www.victoriantradingco.com. you fill find pages of that gorgeous jewelry and of course that gorgeous clothing and those yummy hats. hope that helps. sorry I haven’t been around as much, trouble here at the chicken farm, the turkeys have been fighting, its their time of year for mating and the younger female and our male got into a fight and his leg was injured. for awhile I was really worried we may to get rid of him, but he is now standing and walking around slowly and carefully on his legs, he is doing well now, eat, drinking and moving around now and then. as long as we keep the female away from him and allow him time to heal up he will do fine. its been rainy here, today we got the sun and spring is not far away now. the crocuses, daffodils and snowdrops are blooming, and its nice to see the sun for a change. got to run, laundry to fold and iron and dinner to fix, you all have a great evening. hugs….. 🙂
Nice to hear from you Pat . . . you were missed!
thank you Susan, its nice to be back. I think I got that link goofed up so let me try again… http//:www.victoriantradingco.com there that be it. anyway we’ve been busy getting ready for another peep season and a busy barnyard for this summer, we are hoping for lots and lots and baby ducks, turkeys, and chicks. spring will be here soon, and maybe if I get lucky I can get my clothesline back out, just hope the turkeys leave it alone this year. got to go, towels to wash and bread to bake. hugs everyone…. 🙂
Lovely, just lovely. Wonderful post, helping us relive that last episode. This is why we love you 🙂
Most fun when we’re all in it together . . .
Finally Mrs. Hughes and Mr. Carson have gotten together; of course, it was hinted at last season but this, this is the topping on the cake! And, even though Mary has been a pill, I am hoping Mr. Talbot will be her love interest next season as will the young man Edith met on grouse hunting day. Wouldn’t it be nice to see 3 weddings next year?
Hinted, on Downton, is never quite good enough is it?
Been checking all day for your witty recap! Oooh, I just loved this episode! I cried a few tears, rewound scenes to savor again! I must get the whole series on DVD so I can see it all the time! They just don’t make enough episodes!
Will be waiting for your books too. I know they will be on my Christmas list!
The dresses and hats were absolutely fabulous this week. Had to watch it twice. (favorite part was, “I do want to be stuck with you. Will you marry me?” and his tears)
Can’t wait for that new book…and knowing there will be two…PRICELESS!!!!
Blessings,
GG
Wonderful recap as usual…so many terrific moments in this episode. I have to agree with the gal from above who said when she saw the opening scene, Mary in that killer outfit, she knew it was going to be a great episode…totally. My favorite two parts were Tom’s moment in the nursery with Mary and Edith, wish they hadn’t been interrupted by Robert!! And, the proposal..I wanted to cry when he said something along the lines of,”You take your time, but I can assure I don’t want to be married to anyone else.” Words triumph over kissing scenes any day in my opinion. Especially when they are from the heart. These people aren’t real, these people aren’t real..have to keep saying it!!
TWO BOOKS! I promise you, Susan ( formerly from Ohio, now in So Cal) is doing cartwheels! This is probably her dream come true…..2 Susan Branch books…part 1 and part 2. And part one already shipped off to the editor! I’m happy also, except it will be a little like Downton Abbey…..sorry must wait for next year!
Seriously, I was so happy with the finale of Downton! ..and they lived happily ever after……at least until next season. Still have to watch this a second time, and I found all the Seasons on Amazon Prime, so I intend to start from the beginning. I started watching somewhere during Season 3. At least I will have Downton to watch until January 2016.
Also sending prayers and hugs to Blog Daddy on his upcoming procedure!
Must make dinner…love you all!
Chris
Love you back Chris!
Chris, you made me laugh! I’m cartwheeling on the inside because ,well, it wouldn’t end well if I actually tried it! ( You can’t fool me, you want to cartwheel too!)
Ha ha ha. You are right, we best not try to actually DO the cartwheels!
But I knew you would be over the moon at this news!
I really really really wanted to catch up on my seasons so I could read these!…but I used up all the satellite internet for the month watching season 3…*SIGH*
Until next month!
Be still my heart! First the finale of Downton…I still can’t talk about it! Emotional! Emotional! Emotional! Are we sure these characters are not real? And then learning that your latest book is going to the editor very, very soon! My heart is pounding with beats of pure joy!
Ohhhhh, Susan~What a perfectly wonderful synopsis of last night’s Downton Abbey…my hubby was sitting next to me looking at all your photos while I read your simply purrrr-fect synopsis…we both loved YOUR synopsis so much more than the Washington Post synopsis~which my hubby reads every week…but the very BEST news is that Y~O~U will have TWO new books…can’t wait…we got provisions in today as another winter storm is headed our way tomorrow and I’m afraid to say after the storm leaves us in Michigan…it is headed to you…18 days to spring…last week when we had bitterly cold temperatures, I read a wonderful book I would like to recommend~”All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr…it is about WWII, begins in Paris and is wonderful…stay cozy…xoxo…
Thank you Rae Ann . . . and I wrote down the book. Sounds interesting! PS I don’t think we want your storm!
I just finished reading this book and absolutely loved it. If you can, Susan, get a copy from the library. It’s perfect reading if the weather is stormy and you have to stay inside.
I can’t wait for your new books. It’s as hard as waiting for the next season of Downton. ‘A Fine Romance’ is a treasure and I can just picture it as a film–Susan, who do you want to play you and Joe?!
I’m not sure I can stand the wait for next season of Downton. I may do what I have not done yet and buy the DVD when available. Maybe I’ll have an attack of the vapors and need to watch something while I recuperate.
My prediction: Someone said Julian Fellowes is starting a new series set in Gilded Age New York. I bet we will see Rose, Tom and some of our favorites on the other side of the pond.
If you do get it early, don’t tell us! 🙂 Let’s see, I never thought about who’d play who . . . have to look into that someday!
I would never tell! That’s why I never Google Downton Abbey til the season is over–spoilers. And I will not likely get the dvd early–it’s too much fun to enjoy the suspense during the dead of winter.
I love the suspense, looking forward to every Sunday night, on Fridays I rub my paws together and say, oh Boy, two days till Downton!
Your recap was TOPS compared to this morning’s “Washington Post” review! They didn’t provide musica and all the other embellishments that you give us!!!! Think you ought to contact them to be their VERY SPECIAL SUSAN BRANCH REVIEWER of “Downton Abbey”!!!!!!!!!
I’m the reviewer from Smallville! 🙂
Susan, last night on “Manor of Speaking” (the Downton Abbey “after show”) they said something about the agent being the heir to Brancaster Castle. And since the owner is in North Africa, it’s probable that he’ll get killed, and then the agent will inherit the land and the castle, which is much more vast and impressive than Downton. Should Edith become romantically entwined with the agent, it’s possible that she could become the Lady of the Castle and have more social standing than Lady Mary! Take that, nasty sister Mary! 😛 Only time will tell. I can’t believe we have to wait yet another year for all the beauty of Downton!
Best of luck with your new bookS! I’m eager to see them.
Aha! Thank you Tracy!
What a show! What a recap! And now two BOOKs—be still my heart.
the wind is howling,I have your music playing, I am all alone in the kitchen and I am crying the big fat tears of last night when Mr Carson asked the magic question and said I would not marry anyone else. why oh why have I become so emotional over this show I mean after all it is just a show. I watch very little of tv in general except the classic movies, have I been reincarnated from that time and miss it? Well who knows but I will shake it off until next Jan. In the mean time I am half way through a fine romance and can’t wait for your next book to be published.
Cathy
I think it’s the beauty and the longing for innocence. Thank you Cathy!
How hilarious! Your quote about not messing with Tom lines up on the blog with the picture of you and the warning to not use anything without asking FIRST!!! Priceless. And exactly how I feel. Don’t mess with Tom. I love Tom!
Too bad Shrimpy and Susan weren’t invited to the hunt …. the opportunity for accidentally shooting her missed again!
Mary might not be very nice to anyone, but I loved her wardrobe this season. I loved everyone’s! And being this a year I hit the big milestone birthday I might be old enough to fein eccentricity and dress in 1924 garb and hat the rest of my years.
Your book now has to be TWO???? I’ve died and gone to heaven!!! I can’t stand to see Downton end, and I’m sure I would be sad (again, after A Fine Romance) to see your book end. So now I’ll be able to read for maybe four days when they come out!!! (I read too fast.)
LOL, missed opportunity! I’m afraid she may have looked like swiss cheese! Thank you sweetie!
One more interesting thing I just found online. The castle where they went shooting in Downton Abbley in the season finale is the same castle that was Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies–Alnwick Castle in Northumberland. Thought it looked familiar!
Their website is worth checking out while we all go thru DA withdrawal til next year. Thanks so much again for the wonderful photos and comments, Susan.
If you Google “rooms inside Alnwick” you get to see the gorgeous rooms there . . . wow!
My sister and her husband stay in Alnwick Castle when he teaches for a semester abroad. He is Welsh, so after the semester they go see Granddad in Wales. Some college in Northumberland has reciprocity with St. Cloud State, so the professors take turns visiting.
Lucky ducks!