Oh Girlfriends, we’re going to have fun with this one. Last month our friends (and neighbors) Lowely and John suggested we all go on a Valentine’s getaway together, up to the big snow country of Vermont! What a good idea! Cozy fires, hot coffee drinks, flannel shirts, lots of barns (love barns, have a collection of barn photos, needed more!), Vermont maple syrup on our pancakes, who could ask for more? But there was more, there was a sleigh ride! And you’re coming along! So, here we goooooo! (It’s very long! Unhook the computer, take it to your sofa, get cozy with a cup of tea, and settle in for a virtual trip to luv-lee Vermont!)
MUSICA. It was, I admit, a wee bit hairy on the way up. There was a huge storm. It never stopped snowing and blowing from the second we hit the state line. Luckily Lowely and I were in the big back seat, sharing a cozy blanket, where we could see nothing, therefore could not comment on any sort of driving anomalies. Best for all involved. Trust being the main item of the day. We were strapped into a monster SUV of safety, which was filled with wonderful music! So there was lots of singing along. We had fun! Our map men did a great job, as I am reporting, now, alive, and back home, safe and sound, so it must be true.
And the snowplows were out in full force.
And when our windshield wiper stopped working, Joe popped out and fixed it! Because he can!
But it was gnarly sometimes. And did we mind? No, we just clicked away with our cameras! Lowely is a pastel artist and takes photographs for inspiration. I think some of our more out-of-focus photos look like paintings already! And I take pictures so I can show you! Look at this! Isn’t it beautiful?
I’m always in the mood to share the magic when I see it! I think I forgot how BEAUTIFUL Vermont is. Red barns and red brick chimneys with smoke curling into the white sky ~ softly painted clapboard houses, and everything polka-dotted with snow.
Not to mention old covered bridges, 104 of them in Vermont . . . the most in all of New England!
I liked this photo because of the juxtaposition between the rearview mirror, the bridge opening and the GPS screen. Visions and views, old and new.
Most of the buildings had good steep roofs, and here you can see why . . . the snow slides off in big sheets. Would not like to be under it when it happens! But, then again, it might be fun (if it doesn’t kill you!).
From right out my car window. Lowely and I were always teasing each other, I thought she had all the “good stuff” on her side, and she though I had it all! In this case, I was definitely the lucky one. But she probably had something just as good on her side, as you will see…. it’s all beautiful. Beginning to look a lot like Christmas, 🎶everywhere we go!
This homeowner put a pine-tree wind break around his house. Isn’t it cute? Talk about Christmas! Look at the tiny green building on the right. Snow on roof tops is very pretty! These people would never have to worry about a Christmas with no snow!
Had to be careful though. See that pole in the middle of the church? Didn’t want that in the picture, had to snap it at just the right time! Luckily the icy roads slowed the car down! Look below ⬇️, the graveyards were lovely. My favorite part about anywhere I go is the history, and Vermont is old and wonderful and filled with history of our country, and the people who built it, mostly of course, immigrants! AND, related to us, building America, fighting for our country in wars and buried here. See the little flag? 💝
Even the smaller barns had cupolas and weather vanes on top. Why? Because they can. It’s small-farm country around here, and beauty, little graces, which we see everywhere, seem to matter. I always appreciate efforts of home owners who make the world a more lovely place to be. They have such power and often don’t even realize it, they do it because that’s just who they are.💞
And it’s big-farm country too . . . and pride makes them choose blue and red paint to make the whole world brighter.
So we toodled along, taking pictures of everything. Besides wood, which was plentiful in all the local forests, they also used lots of brick for their buildings. This New England is as close to Old England as we can get in America!
Almost everyone has traded his wooden roof for one of these slippery metal ones where the snow can cause no water-intrusion problems for the homeowners.
Lots of the pick-up trucks come equipped with their very own snow plow! Smart! Taking no chances!
Sweet little log cabin in the woods. I will always be a lover of houses, all shapes and sizes.
Almost there! Our hotel is in Warren! In the Mad River Valley! Mad River, what a great name!
Just because it’s out of focus, doesn’t mean it isn’t wonderful! By the time we got to the hotel, it was around 5 o’clock, and we had fallen madly in love with the whole countryside. MAS MUSICA? Oui! Favorite travel musica!
We’re there!
And this is our hotel. The Pitcher Inn in Warren, Vermont. Plan ahead if you go there, because their hotel packages give a significant discount if you do! Romantic, perfect for Valentine’s, set in the smallest little town, but right in the middle of everything.❤️
Here’s the parking lot. With this darling little clock building in it, a converted barn we think is probably offices for the hotel.
And there’s our beast-like vehicle that got us here alive.
Here’s the view across the street.
Snowy Warren, Vermont, says, “welcome!”
Quite a cute little store attracting our attention across the street. Lit up with stars and twinkle lights. Looks like a country general store. Probably a good one. Note to selves, go here first thing in morning!
The hallway display on the way to our room.
Here’s the entrance, with a look into the dining room, and the stone fireplace far beyond. Every room had a fireplace of course.
Charming lighting in the hallway . . .
We unloaded our bags and went right down stairs to the cozy pub to drown our driving jitters in hot toddies and cold toddies and all the toddies in between!
Below, is one of the lovely views from our room. Note starry curtains.
And this was the ceiling. Painted with stars . . .
And this frightening thing with wild eagles on the posts, was our very comfortable bed, with ice cube light tables on both sides! You just never know!
And at the foot of the bed, this . . . a crackling fire made with white birch logs . . . Every night, or any time you asked, they would come and make you a real wood fire.
And this bathroom was SO good, I’ve never seen one like this. For anyone thinking about building a house, you might take a look at this! (The reflections from the windows behind me get in the way a bit, try to look past them.) For one thing, the entire floor is heated, 
including the tile in this glass room, which is totally enclosed, right up to the ceiling, with a glass wall and a glass door. On the left is the whirlpool tub (you see the bathroom counter in the reflection, but that’s the tub) ~ there are two shower heads, a really good drain in the heated non-slip tile floor, a steam control, so you can take a steam bath, and a little wooden seat on the right that folds down in case you are the sitting-steam-bath-shower type. It’s very possible to spend the day in this room. I couldn’t help but picture my mom, who could only bathe three kids at a time, (all that would fit in tub, with her on her knees getting soaking wet), putting herself and her babies in here for group shower! Would have been very handy!
From our room, looking across the street . . . colored lights. How could we not love this!
And here it is again, looking from their side back to our hotel . . .
Birch trees are snow art . . .
The dining room where we had breakfast every morning. Breakfast comes with your room: French toast or flapjacks and Vermont Maple Syrup, delicious coffee and ice-cold fresh-squeezed orange juice with all the delicious pulpy parts intact ~ poached eggs, all white and soft and juicy with yolk, and crunchy seedy toast, with jams and honey and every good thing, and so much more. Fruit and yogurt and granola too. . .
We were happy. Nicest guy waited on us. Remembered all our little preferences from day to day.
Then across the street we went through softly drifting snow to the “almost world famous” Warren Store, built in 1839 as a stagecoach stop, which, from all the action, people going in and out, seems like it’s probably the community center, both for locals and for our kind, the not-so-local, but-still-very-appreciative, too.
First thing I noticed, in all the cuteness of this store where they pretty much sell everything from groceries to home goods, clothing to champagne, with worn wooden floors, the fragrance of fresh coffee brewing, was the extremely hygge wood stove that you couldn’t help but cozy up to. (This store reminded me of the one in the wonderful movie Baby Boom, where Diane Keaton sold her Country Baby Food, remember? SUCH a good movie with a darling Vermont house in it, in case you haven’t seen it . . . you’d love it!)
These are my people. Lowely, Joe and John as we go upstairs to the WONDERFUL clothing store, where they also sell home things, like beautiful hooked rugs and pillows! I found a darling little wool vest up there.
Then there was this framed print hanging over the cash register that made me laugh. So much, I had to go home and show it to Jack, and this is what his face did:
Did someone mention ball? Wait a minute, does someone have my ball? Where is it …. you took it? You took it to Vermont and gave it to that strange zebra cat???? Jack was very confused.
They had children’s books too…isn’t this book cover adorable? Not to mention the play on words. Had to take a picture of this!
A label on a box of chocolates. Quite cute. Have I mentioned how much I love barns and lettering?
Then it was into the car, and back on the road for a day of serendipitous meandering. And more adorable red barns (just like the one on the chocolate box!).
If you really want to get in the mood . . . look at this old video. Because on the actual day of Valentine’s Day, this is what we’re going to be doing ourselves… eeek.
Store window in the neighboring, somewhat larger town, of Waitsfield. X’s and O’s for Valentine’s day.❤️
Across from where Joe was walking is this wonderful store, All Things Bright and Beautiful, on Bridge Street. Filled with stuffed animals, and glass and wooden ornaments. Gaelic, the woman who’s owned the shop for 52 years, was there, making her homemade wooden ornaments.
And there were these . . .
And these . . .
And this . . .
And on Gaelic’s art table, was a box, with a cat in it! A word of advice: resist temptation! Do not put your hand in the box with the cat. #wordtothewise
He is waiting for you to try it. He had me so riveted on him, I forgot to take a picture of Gaelic making her wooden ornaments . . . but Lowely took this picture of a wall display . . .
So now we know how she does it . . . Nothing is what you think it is. The work that goes into all the lovely things there are in this world is phenomenal. This just proves it.
Next to Gaelic’s store is this bridge, 2nd oldest in Vermont, hence “Bridge Street.”
We walked through it and around it, and on the far side, we looked across the snow meadow and there was this huge bonfire.
I know what my girlfriend Diana would say, she would say, “What would you do if you saw that?” Seemed like a pretty safe time to burn though, I could feel the heat from where I was standing. Had to video it!
XOX
See the snow coming down? All wonderful.
Perfect photo op.
And more meandering, more town, getting hungry . . .
Lunch started with a toast and four Bloody Mary’s!
Then more meandering . . .
Couldn’t drive past this sign . . .
Because what’s Vermont without cider and syrup, and these . . .
Legendary!
Cider donuts! Yum!
All kinds of goodies here . . .
Beautiful bottles ~ think I’ll get . . .
This! One Bourbon Barrel Aged Pure Vermont Maple Syrup for me, and, one for you!! Yes! A GiveAway! Just leave a comment at the bottom of this post (if you ever get there), and you’re IN!
Out, munching do-nuts, drinking cups of steaming hot cider, we slip into gallery, then back in the car . . .
for more red barns . . .
And green ones, and floaty snow flakes . . .
And picture-taking from open car windows . . .
It’s a big ski area up there . . . you may have heard of Sugar Bush and Mad River Glen . . .
And apparently golf is popular too! Though we did not see a lot of it going on!
The slopes were packed with brightly colored people!
The mountains are criss-crossed with ski runs and chair lifts . . .
And gondolas . . . to which, I say, thank you, but no thank you. My adventurous spirit, which brings me right to the edge, has its limits . . . I’m best in the lodge. With the cocoa. And the book. I can go, but drop me at the lodge and bring on the whipped cream.
Luckily, Map Man is right there with me . . . a lodge guy.
So, speaking of immigrants, we then arrived at the chalet of the famous singing Von Trapp Family (Yes, from The Sound of Music) who, with their ten children, left Austria just before WWII, and brought their American Dream to this gorgeous mountain top with the long views of Vermont and made it all come true.💞
They built this amazing ski lodge . . .
Always wanted to see this place and here we were. If you are a skier, I would say this would be a wonderful place to come stay. As you can see, it wasn’t all snow and blizzard while we were there, it was sunshine too!
Now a quick word about stars. Something about birch stars that the locals adore, because they are lit up and on everything. You may have noticed them on the Warren Store. Here are a few more photos to prove my point.
Upstairs and downstairs . . . I think they know that twinkles in the snow make magic! That’s why they do it!
And they are really everywhere . . . hanging from trees . . .
On barns . . .
All sizes . . . we think they make them from scratch from the trees in the woods . . .
Some more into it than others . . .
They don’t look store-bought, or uniform in size . . .
Little ones too. . . next to the cute blue door . . .
And even, or especially, in front of the wonderful New England churches . . . quite pretty. I could go on with stars, and restaurants and food and everything, but I think NOW is the time for the Main Event, our sleigh ride in the snow which I have been dreaming of doing for years . . . and now we finally did!!!!!! It was everything I hoped it would be for us four Valentines.❤️ And so nice to be able to take you Valentine’s along with us too!
“Gentle Giants” in Stowe, Vermont . . . that’s the name of the sleigh people, and there’s their phone number . . . just in cases.❤️
We brought champagne with us, for before we got out of the car, for a pre-sleigh-ride warm-up and toast to Valentine’s and our wonderful friendship. (BTW, want to taste the MOST delicious champagne, that does not give me a headache like all the others do, costs about 7 dollars a bottle and is from Trader Joe’s? It’s called Amour de Paris (good name), is peach flavored, and I tell you, it’s good cheap stuff. Very celebratory! Perfect for brunch! Yum! Write it down! You’ll love it!)
Now we are happy! 💖
Joe goes in to talk about what we do next!
I go toward the horse. Horse sees me!
He’s coming! I’m happy.
SO beautiful
Much friendlier than the kitty in the box! Note feet (mine) in snow. But totally warm. Uggs boots. Oh yeah, only way to go!
We had a bag of apples and we forgot them! Don’t let this happen to you!
Boys… while we’re waiting . . . (Hay truck, make a wish!)
So you can see. This is the basic lay of the land. That little red house in the middle, the smallest one, was where Joe was talking to Rochelle our sleigh driver . . . and there’s the horse Lowely was petting off on the left. Isn’t it pure heaven there?
Lots of lovely horses here . . .
xoxoxoxo
So here’s “Jack” (another Jack, they are everywhere these days), our horse, being hooked to his sleigh. See how smart he is, when Rochelle asks him to move he does it in just the right tiny increment she was asking from him. I was thrilled when Rochelle put on the bells. I was so hoping there would be bells.
John is bringing his blanket. It belonged to his grandfather, we’ve had it in the back seat for the whole trip, and it’s definitely coming on the sleigh ride! Right, Lowely? Right!
And here we are, loaded up and ready to go. They wrapped us in furry red blankets. We are toasty and warm, and just a few small flakes are coming down. It’s perfect. We’re really doing this!
XOXO
Here we go! Under the covered bridge . . . !
Look at Rochelle. Isn’t she the perfect sleigh driver? Her hair color is wonderful!!!! This is one of my favorite photos of our whole trip! I could paint her!
So into the pristine white woods we go, cold and crisp . . . see all those branches? That’s what you make those stars from!
As we walked along, we noticed there were lanterns hanging from the trees . . .
While watching little blobs of snow fall out of the trees and turn to powder in the breeze, I said to Rochelle, “How fun, do you go out in a sleigh at night?”
(See the lantern?) She laughed, and said, “No, we just put them there so you’ll think we do!” I’m confused. Is she messing with me? I’m a perfect stranger. There were candles in there! I still don’t get it! 😜
We were out there for about a half hour ~ we saw these cross-country skiers go by . . .
And one other sleigh . . . which was fun, because then we could see how cute we looked!
Delightful. You should do this if you can. Must be sleigh rides all over snow country no matter where you are. Imagine, if you are Louisa May Alcott, this is how you travel in the snow, not because you’re a dreamer per se, but because it’s your only choice after walking. And this is how you go to Boston too. And take your book, Little Women to the Publisher to see if they want to print it! Which of course they do! ❤️ It wasn’t so long ago that everyone traveled like this, so all of Beacon Street would be sleighs and horses in the snow. This is one moment I’d like to slip back in time and take my camera with me.
They understand the value of RED in the snow. ❤️
But way too soon we were heading back for the covered bridge . . . Yes, we were singing Winter Wonderland to go with our sleigh bells ~ even Rochelle was singing with us. She must have heard people do that a thousand times, because you just can’t help but break into song. Never was there a more appropriate time to sing that song!
Time to go! ❤️
But not before a Valentine’s Kiss.😍 This was our 30th Valentine’s Day together. So lucky to be loving him.🎶 Came a long, long way to do it.
And good bye to Rochelle. One of the many things I liked about her, is how good she is with her horses. She takes wonderful care of them.💞
Back in the car once again, with back-row seat view to everything.
More wonderful scenery, colors in the snow…
Stars and frozen roads . . .
and luv-lee graveyards . . .
And road views . . .
Another truly delicious dinner, this time at the Common Man, just FANTASTIC. I have the menu, I took pictures of the food, I could show it all to you and go on (I was going to say “all day” but it’s already been all day!) and I’m afraid you may want to reclaim your life now!
So here’s our last glimpse of the winter sun . . .
Before we hit the road, because the blizzard started right up for our ride home. And the four friends were on the road again.🤞Fingers crossed for safety!
We stopped here at King Arthur Flour on the way home, a place Lowely and I had always wanted to see. Really interesting, they have classes there ~ would love to do that sometime, and lots of good stuff in the gift shop! But, blizzardsville, USA.
This was our boat ride home. The snow had stopped. It had been raining. We looked outside to this really strange sky. Finally went outside after remembering, “No, the windows on this boat aren’t tinted.” It was that under the total cloud cover, somewhere up there, must have been a gorgeous sunset, that made it’s way to earth in a giant, and I don’t get to say this often, Purple Haze!
HOME SWEET HOME, with Jackie cozying up to the heart dishtowel I bought at King Arthur Flour. What a wonderful time we had. Got a lot done in a very short time! We left on Sunday, drove all day, had Monday and Tuesday to Play, and came home on Wednesday.❤️ Perfect! Only 2 pounds heavier! Could be worse!
Hope you enjoyed our trip! Don’t forget to leave a comment if you’re interested in some Vermont Maple Syrup! Be sure to heat it up before you pour it over your waffles or pancakes or French toast! Hot syrup melts butter, yum, rivulets! And, come again soon . . . next week we leave on the train for a cross-country trip out to California to be with my mom on her Birthday! Very excited. Will “Twitter from the Twain” along the way! Lots to tell you about still, but enough is enough is what I say! Love you! Byeeee! P.S. Here are some interesting facts about Vermont I’m sure you would love to know!❤️
How lovely. It was like being in a dream. I enjoyed every picture. Thanks for sharing….you’ve brightened my day.
Oh my. As I was reading, I was trying to keep track of everything I loved so I could write how much I loved it. But then I lost track, because every word and photo was my favourite. Those days will shine bright in you forever and we all loved coming along. xxxxxxx & ooooooo from Oxford.
Oh Carrie, yes, I think it’s a little like England! xoxo
I loved it all! I loved the snow, the bells jingling, the valentine kiss, the lighted stars that I am going to try and make. I am so far away from Vermont and snow with sun and 60 degrees. Thanks for taking me along with you!
What a beautiful February memory! Loved seeing the King Arthur building (a hidden treat)!! Sounds like a perfect New England outing!
Just when I think you couldn’t possibly have a better post, you do! I almost had to wrap up in a blanket while reading this one. Thank you for sharing. Safe travels to California~
Oh how this reminds me of my childhood in NH. I actually went to camp in VT one year. Living in San Diego just never quite fits the bill for me…I’m a confirmed New Englander & still miss it so. Going back in July to family wedding. Can hardly wait!! Would love the maple syrup. Thanks for the lovely visit via the computer & the opportunity to win!!
How was the bourbon flavored maple syrup, Susan, or haven’t you cracked it open yet? I have to say after making it about 67 years ago with my Grandpa Lutz in the sugar bush near his farm, I am a purist with my maple syrup consumption. Loved living your trip through your blog post and didn’t get car sick, either, LOL! Great verbiage and photo journalism, per usual. Love reading your work, no matter what form it takes. Safe train journey for you and Joe. Have a great time celebrating your mom’s birthday with her. I wish I could do so once again.❤
Thank you SO much for sharing your special Valentine’s treat!
Sigh….
Been savouring every line and photo.
This blog could have published as a ‘mini book’ !
😉
What an adorable photo of you in your darling purple hat and Uggs in front of the horses and also the one of you and Joe giving each other a valentine’s smooch. You are too cute!
Thanks for the tip on the cheap champagne (my favorite kind; cheap, I mean). I always buy my champagne at T.J.s but haven’t tried the Paris one. I’m on my way there now (to T.J.s not Paris, darn!)
Belated Happy Valentine’s day to you!
Dear SB…Best Blog Ever…Stowe for a sleigh ride is now on my bucket list…how blessed will I be if I am the winner of your jug of Vermont Maple Syrup…fingers crossed…Enjoy your time with your Mom.
What a wonderful description of a trip to Vermont! When we visit our son Tom in Burlington, we always stop at Cold Hollow and King Arthur Flour. You’d love Burlington, as well – fun shopping and Lake Champlain! There’s always another reason to go to Vermont!
Eeeeee, huge Happy!!! To get home from errands in Friday afternoon traffic to find a New Post. Oh, Susan, you are the gift that keeps on giving, as I read over and over. Looks as though I may be the first to comment on this one.
Tom and I remember Warren, but it was in Fall. I have put the Pitcher Inn in my WishCraft book….for maybe our next anniversary? Not too far from Franklin, Maine. Can’t wait to visit the shops you featured. And…Bourbon maple syrup??!! Does not get any better! Excuse over use of exclamation points!!!!!!! Sleigh ride pictures are just magical. As always, I adore New England….why we moved there. But we rarely get to see the snow.
Just a little update on us….Mr. Tom is doing extremely well after the open heart. Thank you for your very kind encouragement. It was pretty grim the first week, but he is way ahead of the recovery curve. Whew! Relief. Having my first procedure on the po’ neck nest week, then maybe the first shoulder. After all the chassis overhauls, we’ll be rarin’ to go. All in all, we are just A OK. Will swing by Trader Joe’s for the Champagne, peach of course, to celebrate Successful Surgery. I dislike Champagne for one of the same reasons you do….or did….headaches. I dutifully have mimosas with my Tommy on Christmas morning, but no more. We also buy Two Buck Chuck!! Ain’t life grand??
Thank you for this big time blog today,
Debbie in Tampa……for now
PS to the Girlfriends….For all of you who struggle with illness without the support I have, I want you to know how I do realize how lucky I am. One reason I make it a point to write, write, write letters re our health care system. Another thing for you ladies of a certain age…cultivate your good women friends. They will circle the wagons when you need it!! I didn’t always have Tom and good insurance. Love you, Ladies…..Debbie in Tampa
I could not agree more, “circle the wagons” is just what we do. xoxoxoxo
It is grim, I know someone who had that, it’s scary, but the human body is an amazing thing. Hugs to you both, kisses to Tom, keep on keeping on!
Wow, what a wonderful Valentine’s Day trip! Thank you for taking us along for the ride. I enjoyed every minute. Longing to go on a sleigh ride & now that the Sierras are loaded with snow I will have to check it out. Also, I would love to visit King Arthur Flour – I enjoy their catalogs. Thanks so much – glad you are all home safe & snuggly.
Dear Susan,
Thank you for taking us along on your trip to Vermont! It brought back so many wonderful memories of when I was young and spent many weekends skiing in snowy Vermont, when my knees still worked! I only skiied Stowe once, and it was so cold they put blankets on us going up the chairlift (that was before they had closed gondolas). Several years ago I visited the von Trapp Family Lodge in the fall, and it was lovely then.
Best wishes to you and Joe on your twain twip to California, and please give a hug and a kiss to your Mom from all of us. I’m looking forward to hearing all about your adventures along the way. I wish I could keep Jack with me while you’re away …
Barb
I loved every minute of it! Watched it twice so far. thank you, toni b
Planning a trip to Vermont in the fall. Can’t wait!
Loved this post. I would loved to have been with you on your trip, especially since it is very grey, wet and winding here on the central coast of CA. I remember having real Vermont maple syrup back in the 80’s when my sister toured New England. It was the best.
I’m so overcome with a peaceful and exciting joy (all wrapped together) from seeing all those magnificent pictures. Thank you so much for sharing your special Valentine’s trip with us.
please do a painting of the carriage driver
2019 calendar?
Marcia from Sewell
Wonderful post Susan! Makes me want to go to Vermont! So pretty! I know what you mean in regards to the store from Baby Boom! LOVE that movie! I also love charming old stores!
Have fun in California! Will be following along! Enjoy!
Josephine
Thanks so much for this sleigh ride! Vermont is my absolute favorite state to visit and have been there many, many times in the Autumn!!! A magical time for sure in the Fall. I too, love, love, love red barns and am always on the lookout for them when travelling………… another New England wonder are all the beautiful little white churches…………I might suggest to you, that you should visit Prince Edward Island in Canada some day…………very beautiful as well with lots of little white churches and seaside villages………kind of biased I might be, since I am Canadian.
Yes, Nancy, we love PEI. In fact, we adore Canada! Spent 2 wks on PEI, camping. Met so many wonderful people…who are difficult to avoid if you are in Canada. The island has some of the prettiest farm land we’ve seen, and we’ve been in all but one of the States. Living in Maine for 6 months a year, we go to St. Andrews and St. John, New Brunswick every year.
Thanks to all Canadians for being such good friends through thick and thin.
Debbie in Tampa….for now
Yes……… we love Maine as well……………usually go thru there on our way to St. Andrews By the sea……………So may beautiful little white Churches there as well and beautiful countryside…we especially love all our Border neighbors……….got your back!
Nancy in Destin…for now
Hi Susan!
This is Lisa @haikuflower on Twitter. Every single one of your pictures was so charming! One of my favorites was the view of all the outdoor trees and snow with the star curtains. Also what was the make and model of that rugged vehicle that got you there!? I really loved the post and all that snow made these pictures so much more wonderful. How quaint that everyone likes to make sparkly birch stars!
I enjoyed seeing and reading about your Vermont trip! I love Vermont! We went there in the Autumn and it was stunning. Thank for sharing!
Great photo with the juxtaposition of old/modern. The only way it could have been better would have been the lucky sighting of a horse/buggy on the bridge, too! When you consult on your movie…and share the Valentine’s sleigh ride, you can recompose your photo in a scene to include your photo juxtaposition WITH the horse/buggy!!!
The video of the old sleigh ride with “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” playing made me tear up.
LOVE the ornaments…beautiful glass and the blue ball with snow town is wonderful.
Wonder if sleigh rides can be like merry-go-round rides when you can pay to stay on for two or three ’rounds of fun? I love three back-to-back merry-go-rounds!! A half hour on that sleigh with bells serenading the four of you is WAY TOO SHORT! (But! Your memory will be long…yea!)
As usual, you have taken us on a wonderful trip a-la Susan Branch. New England scenery is always so nostalgic and picture-postcard delightful. Thanks, for sharing…yet again.
We had a leaf-peeping trip planned to drive Vermont. 9/11 happened and we debated whether to get on the plane from CA…the trip was within two weeks after the horrific day. We followed through and got on that plane. We were charmed by all, but the vivid memory of that somber journey was the flags on EVERY type of building…buildings out in nowhere…big flags…little flags…HUGE flags…modern flags…historical flags. That trip had a juxtaposition, too. We saw the fall hay bales, scarecrows, mums, pumpkins alongside the “4th of July” display with the flags. It was a thought-provoking journey.
As for wanting to claim our day back…NOOOO! Being with you on your blog photo-journeys IS like being in a movie with a very benevolent star!
OH…loved the winter sun photo, too. You know…(sun made me think of moon)…betcha you have enough moon photographs to publish a Moonscape Journey with Susan Branch BOOK. 💗💗💗
Ocean lulling…sleigh bells jingling…soon the train’s rock ‘n rollin on tracks…keep on keeping on woman! You are an inspiration and that Joe is your match made in heaven. Lucky-lucky-LUCKY you. 😊
Dearest Susan, what a wonderful post. I watched you on Twitter, but the post was the best. I’ve been to Vermont, having lived outside of Boston for 8 years, but always in the summer or fall, never in the winter. It was beautiful visiting with you and I didn’t have to wear my long johns, socks, boots, scarf, gloves, hat, and lined, winter coat…ha! But, then I didn’t get to take a sleigh ride either. Happy 30th and Happy Valentine’s to you and Joe….looks like both were super duper. Love, Rachel
P.S. I had a sample of the maple syrup aged in bourbon barrels at a craft show in Houston….very interesting and different. Bourbon is Don’s favorite drink, so he would love it.
oh, my goodness!! totally AWESOME!!!! having lived in nh forever…till 2013…I recall exactly how those blizzard-adventures feel…it’s between terrified and enchanted, yeah? I could actually hear the suv on the road. wow. soooooo lovely of a journey!! sooooo glad you could finally enjoy this “bucket-list” wish. so nice to meet Lowely & John! first time I’ve seen them. they seem like the most dear of friends! we’ll all be thinking of you & Joe on your upcoming ride-across-country as well. you are always in heart & prayers of we who LOVE you….always!! it’s been a horrific 4 weeks….getting worse & SCARIER every single day….do NOT know how much more we can take….and, we can’t tolerate ANY of it. yesterday’s “press-conf” truly showed all of us an un-hinged, inept, lying fellow. HOPEFULLY….he won’t want to purchase a gun…which congress now says he actually COULD….along with 75,000 other mentally-ill folks. wow. WHERE are we going???? I tremble!! God HELP America is the appropriate motto now. we must pray. take care & keeeeep well & cozy & safe travels to you. looking much forward to “tweets-from-train!!!! all love to you 2, and much love & HUGS to your dearest Mom!!!!! oxxoxoxo
An absolutely perfect Valentines Wonderland!!
Thank you for an absolutely enchanted post! My sister (my next door neighbor too) and I were just today bemoaning our early spring. Winter here in Indiana seems over with a high of 65 degrees today. We prefer cold weather and wearing sweaters!
We loved all your pics. You should have tons of painting inspiration!
Oh, my, Susan. You all had a wonderful time. Beautiful red barns in the snow. Thanks for sharing. Safe travels to see your mom. Hugs, Elaine
I absolutely loved this. We had talked about going to Vermont at Christmas, but didn’t have a clue where to go… This will be a good option next year, or earlier if I can convince my other half to go. Love everything about it.
Wanted to say I love your books too. I have read Fairy Tale Girl, and am 3/4 through Isle of Dreams, and waiting for delivery of A Fine Romance.
Looks like a Great time was had even with the white stuff Enjoy your train trip and your mom’s birthday
Lovely pictures and videos. I used to live in upstate NY (Plattsburgh) and took the ferry across Lake Champlain to Vermont every chance I got. Your photos reminded me of all the charm and beauty of winters in Vermont. But I sure don’t miss shoveling that snow or driving in it!!
Thanks for the lovely trip!
Tee-hee. I called All Things Bright and Beautiful and purchased the blue ball w/snow village ornament!! THANKS, Susan. 😃
THAT makes my day! xoxo
Oh wow, what a beautiful place Vermont is. Loved all your images especially the sleigh ride.
The cat in the box reminds me of years ago when my Valentine & I were driving through MO with our little boy. We stopped to browse an antique store. It rambled through rooms with so many sweet things. I came to a little sofa with a sleeping ‘doll’ laid out. I passed it a few times & kept thinking how real it looked! Until finally I HAD to touch it. As I reached toward it a lady working nearby said ‘She’s sleeping.’. It was a real doll & so still I really wanted to touch her. I felt kind of silly but at the same time she was such a magical little thing.
Add my name to the maple syrup list!
I love the apple cider donuts at Cold Hollow Cider Mill – especially when they are just made and still warm. Uum!
Oh Susan, what a wonderful blog! Thank you for sharing it with us. I’ve only been to Vermont one time in the Fall, and I fell in love with it. Love, Love Love the New England houses! I feel very blessed to have a little cottage here in Pasadena that looks like a New England home!
Thanks for all you do for your girlfriends, we really appreciate hearing about your wonderful life through your blog.
Love,
Juli
Oh I so enjoyed your (our) trip what a treat thank you so much for taking us . Since I love Vermont maple syrup I would love to get a bottle of it,
Thank You for the chance.
Safe travels out to Ca enjoy the trip and your visit with your mom
Take care
Darlene
I kept thinking of Baby Boom and then, bam, (or boom?), there you go and mention it. Love that movie. And that picture of you and the Valentine kiss is adorable. You look like you’re 30.
Okay, you win the syrup! 🤓
Ha ha, but Vanna is waiting to do her high dive. She takes that job seriously.
I know. But likely she would feel the very same way!😁
I’ve always wanted to go to Vermont. Looks like you had a lovely time.
Love Vermont. Thanks for sharing your amazing trip. We went to The Waybury Inn in Middlebury, VT several years ago. It’s the setting for the Newhart show. Not too far from the Shelbourne Museum (art, design and Americana) and the Ticonderoga. Also loved the Frog Hollow Vermont Craft Center. I could live there!! Enjoy your CA trip. Be safe.
Love that you included the cover of the Sheepover. The second book in the series is Brave Little Finn. About bottle fed sheep who live on a real Vermont farm. John Churchman, the author has a great Facebook page!
I loved your trip to Vermont. Friends, snow, horses, gift shops and restaurants to share together. Then a rail trip coming up too! You deserved all this time away following all of your painting assignments. How I wish I had my Mom to go visit. Enjoy every minute, please.
What a marvelous Valentines adventure. I just loved everything about this trip. ❤
I’m so interesting in some maple syrup. I could see maple walnut muffins hot out of the oven with a cup of steaming tea and a good book. I envy your your trip – although all the snow would make me nervous so you are my intrepid explorers, who I follow and dream about being.
What a fun get-away, Susan! You make us feel like we were right there with you. Love, love, love all that snow! Thank you!
Oh, Susan, thank you so much for taking us along on your wonderful adventure! Vermont is now on my bucket list. It is a beautiful, historic place that this California girl has never seen! Your photos truly brought your trip to life for me! Blessings to you as you get ready for your next adventure!
The snowy landscapes were so beautiful. You really captured it in photos. Lovely to look at but I am so ready for spring.
Enjoy your train trip!
Hi Sue – I went with you on Twitter for this trip 😀 – fabulous get away and loved all your pictures. I’ve dreamt of Vermont in the winter – so very beautiful and the sleigh ride – dream come true for you and no more so than on Valentines Day with your Joe. 30 years. Sigh. Love at its best. Thanks for another great post and safe travels to CA next week.
Cheers from Wende xo
Wow! It’s actually winter someplace. Here in Tennessee, it’s in the 60’s and daffodils are blooming already. Enjoyed your pictures as always. Safe travels.
Oh, Susan, I love, love, love Vermont, and your pictures only made me love it more. Every one was more beautiful than the last! What a delightful Valentine Getaway. The lights, the snow, the general stores, and the sleigh ride, thank you for sharing all of it. Now, warm up and snuggle in.
Fantastic post, Susan! I live in Michigan “snow country”, but you made it seem all brand new. That’s your magic!….So very happy for the four of you to have made such wonderful memories. Thanks for sharing! :^) Hugs to Jack! ^..^
Thank you for a WONDERFUL trip to Vermont! That is by far, the one adventure I’d love to enjoy, especially the sleigh ride! Time to get my bag of King Arthur WW flour out, & mix up some pancakes!♡♡♡
What a beautiful and perfect Valentine getaway. The whole thing was a giant Valentine card! And that Miller High Life commercial – my all time favorite holiday ad. Thanks so much for sharing, Susan!
Thank you so much for sharing your special trip with us. Love all the photos and the descriptions — really made me feel like I was right there with you. The colors are exactly what I imagine a winter wonderland to be made of: white, red, white green, white, blue, and did I say white? And I know you said your sleigh driver’s name is Rochelle, but I have to guess her middle name must be Pippi.
May God bless you and Joe with many more Valentine’s Days to share together!
Oh How Romantic! Perfect for a Valentines- Get-Away! Was glad to see the Christmas/Valentine decorations of lights, red bows and sparkling stars were still up! You do have fun! My kind of girl!
Beautiful but brrrrr…….must have been so cold! I laughed out loud when I saw the school bus. Where I live in Texas the schools are shut down if the weatherman thinks there might be a chance of snow. Loved your adventure!
Emma
Vermont is so pretty and you bring us right along like we are on the trip with you. The scenery is beautiful year round. The hotel bathroom was fantastic and there is nothing like a cozy fire. Enjoy your next adventure to CA. Can’t wait for the new mugs to be available for purchase!!
Wow, that was so much fun! Thank you for the ride along😍I’m with you…fireplaces and cocoa work for me. How lucky you are to have such good friends with the same interests! The stars have to have a story because they are magical. You made me want pancakes and syrup and maybe some bacon and coffee and a fireplace to sit next to and a snowy window to look out. Pure bliss if you ask me! Love.
We’ve had so little snow this winter in Pennsylvania, and I miss it! All your beautiful photos gave me a warm and snuggly and hygge feeling. Going to make some tea and look and them all over again!
Thanks so much for a tour a the Mad River area seen as it should be, in SNOW! It’s been many years since I’ve seen Vermont and your photography has an immediacy to it that really enhances the experience!
Susan, thanks so much for taking us along. Vermont has been the “happy place ” for our family for many years. My parents even went there on their honeymoon in 1949. Your photos are magical! I’ve always wanted to take a sleigh ride and what a wonderful way to spend Valentine’s Day. Just beautiful.
Oh Oh Oh, such lovely pictures. I feel like I’ve been on vacation. Lovely day all the way. Spent a couple hours with my daughter’s eating wonderful goodies at niece Rachel’s new Choux Choux Bakery in Everett WA, the came home to this lovely blog. Such a relief from what’s been going on . . . Your snowy scenes are just gorgeous and makes me want to go there. I think I might pass on the Eagle Bed! But the fireplace – oh my. Thank you for this lovely respite. I’m having a delicious cinnamon roll for dinner from the bakery. I won’t eat anything else OKAY?
Love the idea of getting to taste that bourbon maple syrup…enter me up! ha,ha. Totally LOVED the snow pics…we have snow-envy down here in Florida. My trees are starting to bud out! Yikes! My air is on…I know, pitiful for February-if you love cold weather as I do. My daughter just came back from Iceland and walked around on a glacier in artic gear and sent me pictures of her swimming in the (outdoors) Blue Lagoon with hail hitting the water-oh brother, to be young, fearless, and able to stay warm in Iceland in a swim suit! Here’s to Valentines Day ‘mature people’ style…warm bourbon, warm fires, warm throws and warm friends! And all the best of warm times with your Mom on her Birthday.
LOVED THOSE STARRY LIGHTS!
Oh, what joy to read this! I really needed some joy today, too. We would love to take a sleigh ride in snowy Vermont! A stop at KAF would be wonderful, too. This was the perfect Valentine getaway! There is nothing better than Vermont maple syrup!
Sending wishes to you for a memorable week-end! Time to change courses and head to California!
xo Nellie
I loved my “trip” to Vermont, I love the name Gaelic – think I will name my next kitty that. XOXO
I’m in a state of bliss after spending an hour in the company of four wonderful people in lovely, snowy Vermont. At the end of a long, long week, this was the escape I needed! Now for another train trip coming up soon — nothing like living vicariously! Thank you, thank you from Nan in Kansas.
Absolutely wonderful! Thanks for sharing your beautiful getaway. This post is a favorite to view again and again. Loved it!
Susan, you find joy and loveliness wherever you go…or perhaps you bring it to wherever you go! 🙂 Loved the trip and all the highlights. We are Vermont people, too…love it! Have many friends who live there, in several different places, especially in the Craftsbury area and we always enjoy our visits. What a wonderful way to spend Valentine’s Day! Thanks for taking the time to not only take us along as it was happening, but then to share more of your trip. Maybe King Arthur Flour can be a whole other post! Have a great trip to CA!
What a beautiful journey in a winter wonderland! Thanks for taking us along – love the sleigh ride! Wow!
Thank you for sharing!
Oh, such a lovely post! I’m so happy that you took all of your girlfriends along. Vermont is a beautiful state!
Bing Crosby, Rosemary Cloony – White Christmas – singing, “Snow Snow Snow” on the way to Vermont. So FUN!
Love Vermont! This looked like a perfect trip. I’m so jealous! My first visit to Vermont was for my honeymoon at the Red Clover Inn in Mendon. I’ve been back many, many times. Looking at your photos makes me think another visit is in order!
What a perfect Valentine’s! Loved the video of the sleigh ride and the jingly bells. Glad you arrived home, safe and sound. X Chy
Thank you for taking us all with you via your Vermont Valentine trip…so much fun!
Hi Susan …… such a grand time and to be able to share it all with such good friends makes all the more special….As I was gushing about all of this to my husband, he just kept looking at me with this weird-o look on his face….just looking at me as he was leaning against the kitchen counter with glass of wine in hand….but I kept on gushing … the snow…the sleigh …. the barns… the cozy fires…finally I stopped and blurted out, “WHAT???”…he just smiled and said, ” then you would have loved my childhood”… He was born and raised on a farm and he was blessed with great times like this as he was growing up. He has never forgotten the simple pleasures of a sleigh ride to the feed store or stoking that cozy but necessary fire….Your little getaway helped to drum up more of those wonderful memories. We both loved this blog post, so thanks for taking us along. I have a feeling that a sleigh ride is in store for us next winter…. (note to self .. beware cat in box)….
Glad everyone made it home in one piece… the travel looked a little dicey…but what’s life without a bit of adventure. Have fun getting ready for the train ride… know your mom will be thrilled to have you both there!!
love, cindy xoxo
Greetings, Cindy, You are a hoot! Very witty. I know that husband “look” when I’m gushing over SB Blogs. But the pictures and captions he likes…..when he looks. Great that Susan jogged his Nostalgia bone, and that you’ll probably get that sleigh ride.
Debbie in Tampa….for now
Hi “Debbie in Tampa”…..always so fun ( and nice ) to hear from a fellow Girlfriend….. and fellow Floridian!!!! Gonna have to travel a bit to get that sleigh ride!!!!! Thx Debbie😊
Sadly I haven’t been able to read your blog in awhile because I have been busy, but boy am I glad I stopped in today! It was all so gorgeous thank you for sharing. So many things have now been added to my bucket list! My sister will love seeing this post as she is a Vermont loving kinda gal too! It’s funny cause the moment you said Vermont I thought of white Christmas and the song “snow” and of course you thought of that too! Thank you for the lovely trip to Vermont I really enjoyed every gorgeous detail! So beautiful, who doesn’t love snow!
Oh my how I wish I could do this someday. Thank you for sharing. Barbara
Pure splendor. You are filling up my ‘bucket list’ of places to go. Thank You.
I felt I was right along side you on this trip. I treasured trips to Vermont and staying in a farm house many snow storms ago.What a lovely way to celebrate ❤day and your anniversary.
The picture that Lowely took of the wall art of the ornaments hit close to home. I have collected those ornaments in years past and have one of a black and white kitty that hangs on my Christmas tree every year. The shop in Waitsfield is so much fun. Susan thank you so much for sharing your wonderful trip. You took wonderful pictures. It was fun to see you and Joe and Lowely and her husband having such a swell time
Oh boy, I kept checking this eve to see if the new blog was up and saw it was, yippeee! My hubby is watching an action movie, daughter on her computer so I slipped on the ear phones and dove into this, musica and all. Love all the pictures, the harrowing but fun snowy trip to Vermont and the lovely pictures of the inn, country store and of course the sleigh ride. I love to look at houses too along the roadside, they look so pretty in the snow. I was intrigued by all the lighted stars so I googled it, and it seems they do this every year in that area, and there’s a contest with prize money going to a non-profit of the winner’s choice. The article said people make their own stars. I bet the ski people really love it when they get the big snows, but in Vermont they probably don’t have too many snow less days in winter. I bet it would be beautiful in the fall too, with the changing leaves, but I think you picked the coziest time to go, and of course you got the sleigh ride. Glad you’re back home to share this with us, and will look forward to tweets of your train trip to see your mom. Thanks for posting all the pictures, there was definitely not too many and I feel like I’ve been to Vermont now. Looking forward to next time. xoxox
Only 2 lbs. heavier reminds me of my friend, who moved to Vermont many years ago. She worked in the office for Ben and Jerry for a period of time, but had to leave because she was gaining too much weight from all the free ice cream employees were given. Thanks for taking us along for the ride(sleigh and all) as you traveled. It is beautiful! Have a safe journey and great visit with your Mother!
So beautiful, Susan! I would love to go to Vermont and have been dreaming of going there and staying at a ski lodge since the first time I watched White Christmas many, many years ago!
Susan, that was wonderful! I mentioned that my sister moved to Vermont one year ago. From hectic suburbia to a five acre farm in a gorgeous area (further north than where you all were)…I was seeing her in every scene in your post….the snow, the horses, the lights and stars, the sleigh ride (hers was at night of the full Snow Moon!), the fireplaces and the hot cocoa, the local stores in all their cuteness, the scenery….thank you for sharing your amazing Valentine adventure! ♥♥♥
I loved this! When we lived in Boston (we are now in Park City, Utah) and had our weekend home in NH, we travelled all over Vermont. We have been to this lovely VT town. Your pictures were so wonderful to see, you really caught the charm. Made me very homesick, but I so enjoyed it. What a great trip.
BTW Baby Boom is a favorite movie that I watch over and over. I so wanted to be Diane Keaton living in a small Vermont town.
Who didn’t? Didn’t you just die laughing about that well going dry. “Well, GUESS!” I still laugh!
Yes, so funny. And loved the Yup and Nope. They would say that in NH too! Now I will have to watch it again today 🙂
My how I loved the journey!
The stuff of dreams!
Loved it all, even the cat in the box!
Lovely Susan, how delightful!
Love, love, ❤️ a wonderful giveaway!
Susan – our beautiful country, our wonderful world….each morning I awaken to falsehoods, odd, manic comments, decisions from our new leadership…..I love to look back at all that brings color, light, calm, beauty, RESPECT, humor, animal spirits, world travel, snow, seasons, flowers, poetry, art, love, intelligence….that is you, my friend…..bringing it all to us, to share with us at this time in our shared lives…..to use all that art and beauty and respect to cut through the haze of falsehoods…..can we thank you, yet again….and again??
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Sending love to you Regina. xoxo
That kitty looks like our Sweetie! What a lovely trip for you. I was in Vermont once, for a cousin’s wedding, and was struck by the neatness along the highways. Maybe that sounds silly, but it was so different from Connecticut (which looks fine to me, but still). I also noticed the metal roofs on the houses.
Thanks for the little videos!
Susan, such a wonderful, well deserved trip for you folks. Foot loose and fancy free with having all your work caught up. Thank you for taking all of us along.
What a lovely winter getaway. I love barns too. Have a small collection of photos. Someday I hope to have a barn and some Suffolk Punches to put in there along with a sweet Jersey. +sigh+
Thank you for thinking of us on your trip.
Pam from Vermont
Susan,
I loved every word and picture, too. I love horses and would love to try that sleigh ride some day. I also order from King Arthur Flour, love their vanilla. Be sure to pack your raincoat for CA because it has been raining non-stop all winter. I can’t wait for summer!
MaryAnn
Dear Susan, Thank you soooo much for taking us to Vermont! Been stressed out lately and this was so wonderful to see – just what the Dr. ordered! Yes, I loved the sleigh ride and the birch stars too, really every single thing and picture of everything! You really do live a charmed life! Thank you for letting us join you in all of your adventures! Love, Love Gloria in Cat Spring, Texas
Absolutely beautiful, Susan! I was married in the Mad River Valley in Waitsfield, and our celebration after….at The Pitcher Inn! Thanks for taking us along.
xoxo,
Tim
A perfect winter getaway! Loved it all and only sad we weren’t there too, but felt like we were from your blog. Thank you. Love Baby Boom (a favorite)etc the things you referenced. What an awesome place to stay too! I have been that route in the spring but winter is so pretty too. What a great time with friends. Thanks for sharing! Loved the journey!
Beautiful, just beautiful! Vermont has ALWAYS been on my Bucket List, now to add a sleigh ride too.
Thank you Susan for taking us along!
So very grateful….
Wow! What fun! You and your friends certainly know how to have a good time. The sleigh ride looks magical! And such beautiful country. I have something new to add to my bucket list!
(John must have nerves of steel to drive so far through that snowy weather. What a guy!)
Thank you for another delightful post. And Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your sweetie!
Susan….what a wonderful gift you have shared with us. Thank you. Vermont is a beautiful state. I am a barn lover too!!