Hi Everyone! Would you like to be in England for Remembrance Day? You came to the right place! MUSICA
I want to show you this wonderful thing that happens in England the second Sunday of November which Joe and I discovered a little bit by accident when we were visiting. 🍂 
It’s actually a lovely tradition that started in America in 1920 when the Poppy flower was proclaimed by the United States to be our national emblem of Remembrance. For Armistice Day, for never forgetting, and for the prayer of peace. See Joe? See that red poppy on his jacket?
Here he is, walking home from shopping at Blenheim Castle in Woodstock Oxfordshire, with a poppy on his jacket. Because, in November, all over the United Kingdom (Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, too) . . .
. . . you rarely see anyone who isn’t wearing a poppy at this time of year. For some reason the tradition didn’t catch on for America’s Veterans Day, but it is huge over there. I wish I’d taken a photo in a train station, so you could see how popular it is, these little splashes of red hurrying hither and yon. You get used to it, then you start to fall in love with it, and especially the idea behind it.
This is Joe and Paul ( Rachel’s adorable husband, English man extraordinaire, one of your funnier and more charming humans on the earth), both of them poppy-decked of course.
We went to a dinner, and everyone was wearing a poppy . . .
Me too . . .
And Rachel too.
For a donation to the Royal British Legion ~ a pound for a poppy, you can pin one of these to your coat. The appeal raises millions for the care of British Veterans and their dependents, and by the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the whole country is decked in solidarity-red for Remembrance.
We read the paper and learned the significance of the Poppy.
As the years went by, other wars and more loss, “between the crosses, row on row, that mark our place…” to what was the war to end all wars, the first world war. Flanders Fields were the battlefields in France where so many were lost, the “western front”. . . is now covered in poppies for remembrance. And a beautiful heartbreaking poem was written:
The first Poppy Day was celebrated in England in 1921, and has continued every year since.
There will be no forgetting . . . the whole country shows their gratitude and old men wear their uniforms on the street with pride. I think maybe because when bombs literally fall on your house and your neighbor’s house, on your church, in your garden, you have a different relationship to war than others who were mercifully spared that experience.You turn on the radio, and there’s Vera Lynn singing We’ll Meet Again back in the day with the voices of servicemen and their sweethearts singing along, and you can feel the heart in the moment, and your own connection to it . . .
Poppies are everywhere, including pillows and sachets in the Blenheim Castle gift shop.
And we ended up with a bouquet of them for our kitchen counter.
You would find them on the street in simple little places . . .
And in the cities too . . . these are part of the Field of Remembrance, a small graveyard set up each year next to Westminster Abbey in London.
And there are remembrances in every small town . . .
This particular Remembrance Day found us in downtown Woodstock where we were staying, a small town in Oxfordshire with a population of 3,000, which is just 
around the corner from Blenheim Castle where Winston Churchill was born. Now Winston Churchill has a special place in my heart, for more reasons than one. The marriage between his American great grandmother Aurora Murray to Isaac Jerome produced a granddaughter, Winston’s mother, Jennie Jerome. That’s her in this picture. My grandmother is Irene Murray, and through her lineage I discovered that Winston Churchill is my 8th cousin! (If you go sideways far enough back, you’ll find everyone is related to everyone!)
XOXO
We came upon this solemn scene by happy accident. We were just walking back to the High Street after visiting Blenheim Castle (we stayed at the Bear Hotel ~ some parts of it 900 years old, you can see it in the video on the right), and didn’t know what was going on when we saw a crowd had gathered, families, babies, and dogs, people of all ages, clergy and soldiers too. It was 11 am on Remembrance Sunday, and the village had stopped to honor Armistice Day as they had done for 95 years, for all those who served and died in war ~ we learned that this quiet remembrance happened in every small and big town in England at this same moment every year, the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month. MUSICA.
Tradition is such a beautiful thing. Honoring the people who built the world, who came before us is such a right thing to do. Afterwards we discovered that Winston Churchill was buried nearby, in a tiny churchyard in a small village called Bladon. So off we went through the golden air of the English Countryside with this music playing in our car to find Churchill’s grave. 🍂
When we found the tiny village of Bladon, we fretted about leaving our car parked halfway in the narrow street, 
only a bit more than one car wide, but it was the best we could do and still be in the town. How they could have had a state burial for one of the most famous people in the world in this teeny place with zero parking is a mystery. But look at that beautiful stone house. See the roof line, all curvy and crunchy from age? I always stop to marvel that they kept the beauty and history of what came before as times changed and such things as bathrooms and electricity were invented ~ how they did it is beyond me, but they did!
Nothing in the town had changed since the day the Prime Minister was laid to rest, except the people. The generations have turned over more than once.
We walked through the quiet, echoing streets of the village looking for the church listening to the birds singing . . .
. . . enjoying cottages and curtains . . .
. . . and people who brought nature inside.
We peeked in the windows at the far end of this house with the amazing vine . . .
. . . and saw these in the little panes of glass! It was the Studio of a sculptor . . . ohhh, I wanted to go in so bad!
But it wasn’t to be . . . “Open Daily 10-6” said the card in the window, but another sign said, “Closed!” Travel is all about the serendipity!
I was perfectly happy wandering the lanes, taking pictures of the stone houses with names on them . . .
and of course, the little charmers out for a walk . . .
And there it was, the flag flying over St Martin’s Church . . . where the bells had just rung for Armistice Day.
A small, rather austere church . . . an unassuming village church like so many others wherever you go.
with lovely details
And a sweet peaceful graveyard, these being my favorite, family gravestones held in nature’s embrace.
Next to Churchill’s grave were simple elegant memorials, and benches for sitting.
with rather an amazing drain in the stone path ~ I had to take a photo of it!
Churchill’s grave sort of broke our hearts. Everything so real. I couldn’t help but think of my dad who had fought in WWII and had died a few months earlier. 😢 We’d been to Churchill’s wonderful house called Chartwell and learned about him and his fascinating wife Clementine ~ and here they were, buried together. History of the world, just waiting for us to find and remember and learn.
It’s actually his family burial ground, his mother, Jennie Jerome, Lady Randolph Churchill is buried in the center grave surrounded by the hedge.
Sure and certain hope.
Afterward we stopped at a nearby pub to read our paper and eat “Sunday Roast” ~ another wonderful old tradition, served in most British pubs every Sunday,
. . . a glorious menu consisting of your choice of beautifully cooked roast beef, roast chicken or roast pork ~ with Yorkshire Pudding, stuffing, roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes with gravy.
And poppies on the mantle . . .
After lunch we drove to Oxford to see Carrie and Stuart, who took us on a tour ~ here we are in one of the churches.
Then back to Carrie’s kitchen which was in full-remembrance mode. We had a wonderful visit with them . . . but when we got back to our rental house, I noticed I had lost the poppy from my jacket. wah. I know, I had another four in my poppy bouquet, but I hated losing even one.
We spent more weeks in England, taking long walks under blowing leaves, enjoying the fall, and did not return to America until late November ~ celebrating Thanksgiving on the ship, going home the old way, past the statue of liberty into New York harbor, dreaming our memories in the rocking of the boat.
And finally home, where Jack was waiting, and H❤️ME was waiting, and of course we brought our poppies home with us. A few days later, a surprise arrived in the mail from England.
It was a book-gift from Carrie, along with the poppy I’d dropped at her house! She found it and sent it back to me! Total perfection!And that’s my story for today, Girlfriends . . . Celebrate November 11 … Remember our Veterans. Study history, see how we got here. With life’s vagaries it’s a pure miracle we are!
Here is my kitchen this morning, sparkling with light from the sunrise…
It’s our time now . . . and one of the gifts of remembering is the gift of knowing the real and important things of life, and passing them to the ones we love . . . 
Clothespin caught a leaf, and I got to make a wish. So I think we can all make a wish!
Ah yes, time for tea! Hope you enjoyed our trip to England! Have a wonderful day! XOXO
You are so inspiring! I am in love with all your products!
Lovely remembrance. I remember poppies being sold everywhere when I was younger.
What a lovely post, Susan – I enjoyed seeing that November through your eyes in that beautiful place. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing your wonderful memories of Armistice Day in England. My maternal grandfather fought in WWI. He was an artist and we have many of his sketches from his time in Europe. Although, most are a bit sad to display, we cherish them nevertheless. I will be sure to wear a poppy on the 11th! Thank you for the chance to win a goodie – I can’t wait to hear more about those charming new dishes. I sip my tea from my autumn cup every morning. Big Hugs!
Truly lovely photos and wonderful memories. May we never forget the sacrifices of those who have served, those who continue to serve, as well as the families who have been impacted, both in past and current conflicts.
Susan, you are such a dear person & make the world a better place!
The poppies touch my heart. To think of all that went before…and hoping it never happens again.
If we remember and never forget what it REALLY is, we can keep it from happening. That’s what I think.
I want to win. Nancy
Susan & Joe, I enjoy all your travels through your photos & descriptions. Thanks for taking all your girlfriends along! 🙂 It finally feels like autumn here in Auburn, AL & the photos & words you share are always such an inspiration to enjoy each season that God sends.
Seeing the old house pictures reminds me of a show I have been watching thru Netflicks. It is called Escape To The Country. The premise of the show is couples who are looking to move to the English countryside are shown 3 houses they might like to buy. Each show describes a different village giving a history lesson along with a look inside some wonderful very old homes. I t is done in a most charming way and usually ends with the couple discussing the homes over a cup of tea. I thought you may like it.
Napa, California wild fires survivor here. Thank you for helping me keep things in a global perspective. We have so much to be thankful for.
Blessings on you Janeen, and your neighbors. I think about you every day. Still such a shock.
Oh, I do so love to travel along with you and Joe, Susan! Thank you for the bit of history and insight to the Brits. I think you must be right that their intimate acquaintance with the effects of war make them even more appreciative of the sacrifices made and the freedom won. It’s a happy day when I see a post from you. Thanks.
Dear Susan,
I love your blogs and wish that I had known about them years ago. They always cheer me up and send me out to my yard to gather flowers for my little vases 🙂
I’m wondering if you’ve ever done a blog with pictures of Martha’s Vineyard. I have been there one time with a tour group and stayed at the Harbor View Hotel. The island is so beautiful. I’d love to know more about it and to see pictures of all the places you haunt and of the homes there – i.e. in the same vein as your blogs of England. If you’ve already done that, can you direct me to that blog, please? Or if not, is it something you might consider doing? I’ll bet I’m not the only one who would be interested.
Happy autumn! I wish I were there to see all the colors.
Best regards,
Lisa
At the top of the blog you’ll see a little icon that says “Visiting Martha’s Vineyard.” Go there … otherwise, I more or less incorporate photos of the island in my regular posts. Hope this helps Lisa!
What a wonderful post! I always buy a poppy from the Veterans. Usually I wrap it around my purse strap. Love the new products, they’re so sweet. Really looking forward to the cross stitch kits! Thanks for the opportunity to win 🙂
When I was about 9 or 10 years old we were “hired” by the local VFW to sell poppies. I think we received some kind of recompense but I don’t remember what or if money, how much. So, yes, I have a lot of remembrance about poppies and have always loved them – have a print of my favorite by Georgia O’Keefe.
Always enjoy your post – it keeps the spirit up! And another yes to “In sure and certain hope”.
Thank you, Susan, for such a lovely post and travel pictures of England!
I drove through lovely yellow autumn woods today. Sparked by occasional red and orange. I went all “pumpkin” at the end of August and for once started decorating for the season then. After steamy summer, I am always ready for my fave time of the year. Your post added to the delights. Autumn is wonderful and I hope it lasts until Dec 1🍁💛🍂🎃
Years ago, our daughter did a college semester abroad in Winchester. We went over to visit her during our Thanksgiving break. Even though the 11th was some weeks past, poppy displays were still visible throughout the city. I remember have thoughts similar to those of Beth T., above.
Beautiful post. I hope for peace. I have a candle topper that has a favorite saying of mine:
“A hopeful heart will see the waiting rosebud beneath the snow”.
I’m waiting for peace.
Oh Susan, I love reading your posts. I feel as if a dear friend has stopped by for a welcome visit. I remember only a few years ago when the veterans would stand at the supermarket entrances selling their beautiful red poppy pins. We would wear them with pride pinned to our blouses or shirts. Now that our company has given us Veterans Day as a paid holiday I don’t see as many people wearing the red poppies. I keep mine on my cars console as a reminder of those who fought for our freedom. Thanks for the beautiful reminder of our past. I would love to win a goodie from you. Thanks for a chance!
Susan, thank you for reminding us of Remembrance Day or “Poppy Day” as we called it as kids. I remember selling poppies as a Gold Star daughter, having lost my father in the war. Today the American Legion Veterans still sell them on November 11 and they are thrilled when you buy one and chat with them a bit. It’s a wonderful thing to celebrate and we need more remembrance of the important parts of our American history.
Hi Susan,
I received the much awaited package in the mail today with your incredibly beautiful Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams mug enclosed!!! I am so excited! It is so beautiful. Then I was so excited to read your blog! 2 great blessings in one day!!
I love your blog and appreciate your insight and wonderful perspective!” You make our world a much better and beautiful place!! Sincerely, Julie
B L E S S E D…we are…very much so….grateful….
As always, I love reading your little blog posts & seeing your photos! Today was a long, slow tiring day at work, so pleasant to come home & relax with a cup of something warm, and read about your corner of the world! ♥ Hope you are having a lovely sunny day! Much Love From Canada, Miss Mouse Middleton & her new sidekick, Rosemary. ♥
It was so nice to read about the wonderful tradition of poppies in Great Britain. I remember getting a poppy for Veteran’s Day when I was younger, but haven’t really seen them in recent years. I think it is so very important to support our veterans and thank them for their sacrifices in service for our country.
I loved the story for today. I also would like that Poppy wreath. My Dad passed away on November 11, 1966 which is many years ago. I always remember Veterans Day and my Daddy.
We love the tradition of wearing poppies for remembrance. We don’t see them so much in the USA these days.
BTW, I’d love to be entered in the drawing!
My friend and I sold poppies on the street for the Girl Scouts.
Such a good memory. Such a long time ago.
I haven’t read any comments yet, so maybe someone already sent this to you:
npr.org/2014/08/16/340649115/a-sea-of-ceramic-poppies-honors-britains-wwi-dead An art display of glass poppies, moves around from England to other locations, each year….this NPR story may be a good place to start…..I had seen a photo of a sea of glass red poppies at the Tower of London…..just beautiful….you gave us a lovely story about the red poppies in England….thank you !
How wonderful to see your post today! It’s been windy and rainy with thunderstorms on the way – I was in need of a cheery boost! This was just the thing – Thanks!
Hello Susa, I only just met you but we are definitely kindred spirits, I’m in love with your book A Fine Romance, right down to the little red ribbon book mark, you just don’t see that anymore. keep up the good work.
Thank you Florence!
Oh my this makes me cry! Thank you for the reminder!!
What a wonderful trip you and Joe had. The countryside was beautiful and I’ve always been in awe of old graveyards. So much history with fabulous stories to go with it. You help make us all feel like we’ve visited England too. Thank you so much for sharing.
I loved this post. When I was growing up my mother wore a ( paper)poppy in remembrance of Armistice Day every November 11th. My grandfather and later my mom grew gardens full of lovely orange poppies that bloom in May. Today, I do as well.
Wonderful blog,as usual. Loved the the story about the poppies. I remember they were around when I was a child, however I haven’t seen them for along time. I would gladly wear one on Veterans Day to honor our veterans. Thanks for your happy and positive thoughts. You make our world a better place.
I always buy a paper poppy from someone from a veterans’ group in November, but will wear it even more proudly this year, remembering its origin. Thanks for reminding us! Alice
Remember for as long as possible…thank you for a beautiful post.
We used to have Poppies sold by veterans in honor of Armistice Day in Boston, renamed Veterans Day. We wore them on our coats. I also had to memorize the poem In Flanders Field in the fourth grade. Even at that age I was moved. I love how the English keep the tradition alive by stopping and remembering on Nov 11. I have visited the places that you mention in this blog and like you enjoyed every minute!!! On a trip to Chartwell from London, we found it closed. There was no mention of the closure on their website. Like you, we were very disappointed but the staff after looking at their site realized the mistake and let us in!!! We couldn’t tour everything but it was a magical day!! Thanks for sharing and bringing back such wonderful memories!!
Love the Musica! Love the slow pace of the blog and of course, Willard! Mine was here today…had to figure which to read first! So I went to the store and bought a lovely cup, as if I needed another. 🙂 And a calendar, and 3 heart plates, and my heart is happy because it is Fall! Thanks Susan!
Thank you for your lovely words. Your words and drawings and photos always brighten my day!
I love everything about Autumn. It’s always been my favorite season. I love the smells, the leaves falling and turning, the crispness, the gorgeous landscapes and the feeling of Autumn. I hope everyone enjoys this season. Thanks, Sue for the walks through the sights here and England.
Well, Susan, I’m not sure that going to England myself would or could be any better than reading about your trips, as told by you. You have seemed to have found the loveliest places to pause and reflect, and the nicest people to visit. I’m so grateful for you sharing your wonderful journey!
Thanks for inspiring me to visit England in the Fall.
Our Veterans Day doesn’t quite match the loveliness of the British one but the sentiments are the same.
What a wonderful post. I used to be signed up for Willard, haven’t received one for quite a while. Do I need to sign up again?
If you don’t have one by Friday morning, yes, sign up again and let me know. Be sure to check your spam folder, Willard has been known to veer off course!
🌺Just a beautiful Post.. Leaving for London tmrw!! Will look for my remembrance Poppies! Love the dishes!!
Susan, your tribute to veterans is so heartwarming. I remember my maternal grandfather, who was in the army during WW1, selling paper poppies for the American Legion. My paternal grandfather also was in the army during WW1. I have a photo of him in his uniform, his Scottish kilt!
Hi Susan,
Thank you for this lovely “Remembrance” Willard. It brought back memories of my wonderful grandfather who served in the Army during World War I. He memorized the poem “In Flanders Field” and would quote it at the beginning of the World War I veterans meetings that he would attend over the years. He was a very special part of my life and I smile to myself whenever I come across that poem because it brings back my cherished memories of my dear grandfather.
Yesterday I posted on Facebook that I was feeling blue and needed good news or something to look forward to. A pen pal (I found through FOSB) posted that a letter was in the mail, several others liked it and then today I got my Willard and read it and your blog. Thank you for cheering me up!! I am quite a fan and love the new dishes etc. While shopping today I was looking for your calendars. I feel like I owe you several thank yous as I have many pen pal friends now. Winning the dishes would be amazing. I’m waiting for a cup with Robins.
Susan, you and I grew up in the Valley in the 50s/60s – do you remember they used to give us red poppies to wear in elementary school? Last year I was given one at Arlington National Cemetery at the end of our tour. I agree with you, this custom should be embraced more here in the US , we must never forget the sacrifices our men and women in uniform made for us. I’ll be having my own moment of silence at 11:11 on 11-11. This was a lovely post – thanks so much for sharing!
Go. Be. Love. Perfect!
Enter me
Sending love to all who read this wonderful blog and to you dear Susan Branch for all you do to promote love and kindness throughout the planet.
What a meaningful post! Thank you, Susan. I love how you educate us.
Hi Susan,
Your posts are almost as good as being in the UK! The poppies are a lovely tradition and poignant. Thanks for sharing; much appreciated.
Thanks for the interesting and creative reminder that Nov. 11 is a day of remembrance for all who have given their lives that we might live free. England went through the war in a way that we in the USA didn’t, in that it was on their soil and not ours. However, we lost many young lives, then and even now. We don’t ever want to forget their sacrifice.
I think the best way to honor them would be to do everything in our power to make sure it never happens to any more boys and girls and their families. xoxo
Wonderful memories of a trip with your beloved!
LOVELY Post! Thank you, as always. You touch hearts…..
Lovely pictures. Thank you for the “trip.”
My daughter’s gift certificate for my July birthday has finally been used. I’ve been waiting patiently for the lovely teapot plate. Of course, I also needed to order the Apricot Jam Tea and one of the little heart plates. So enjoy all things Susan Branch!
Loving every word you write!
Oh, Susan…today was the perfect day to read this post. We just came from the movies where we finally got to see Dunkirk. WWII…but that same British spirit. I love the story of the poppies, and the poem – and when I was in school always made sure to do a display on our Memorial Day with poppies, the poem, and flags to honor our veterans. Thank you for posting the information about Churchill’s grave – we are fascinated with him and that period of history. While in London this past January we spent the entire day in the Churchill War Rooms…amazing. And lunch in the canteen with the war posters and “I’ll be seeing you..”playing in the background. Bliss. Thanks to your father for his service in WWII…God bless all soldiers!
Thanks for the chance to win – can’t wait for Willard 🙂
Your blog never disappoints. You’re special, for sure.😃Thank you.
I loved viewing your photos of Churchhill’s burial spot. When I was visiting in England in 2014 our tour director surprised us with a stop to visit this spot. It was truly remarkable to think that he was buried in such a small church yard but heartwarming to know that he is buried with his family and that was more important to him than some huge public memorial. I know what you mean by the narrow road and finding a place to park your car. Try parking a tourist bus on one of those streets. Our bus driver did a great job though as they all do. Love, love, love England.
Thank you for reminding us that remembering is a gift. We need to pass the real and important things of life to those we love♥
your post is so appreciated. it brings focus on positive things which we truly need. i love the Golden Rule. if everyone focused on that what a difference it would make.
thank you susan for posting.
patti
Lovely tribute…well deserved. Thanks to all for your service! We are free because of the brave. Love the goodies, I want to win 🙂
Willard was in my inbox this morning and of course, I grabbed a cup of tea, sat down and savored every word. Then lucky me, the blog post arrived at tea time this afternoon. The photos of the church and burial place of Churchill brought back memories of my time in England. Such a beautiful and special country, love your posts. How exciting that you are going back.
The new china pieces you are doing are stunning. Can’t wait to give a few to girlfriends for gifts.
I too hope to see Poppies on Veteran’s Day, what a special tribute to their service men and women. Thank you for the two beautiful notes today, they each put a smile on my face. Now keeping my fingers crossed that I may be the lucky winner of the china pieces.
Love your welcome to fall and the beauties it brings!
I’ve oftened wondered why the US doesn’t cover the story if poopies more than it does. Thank you for doing so. Please pick me Vanna!
Susan – as always, thank you for sharing. You bring such joy to our lives.
What a treasure of memories you have from your travels. Thanks for sharing with us! I will be looking for a poppy!
Thank you for this wonderful Remembrance. Love you for showing such respect for this tradition of honoring veterans. My father was a WWII veteran. We buried him on 11-11-11 with a military burial. It was beautiful! Thank you for sharing so many beautiful photos and details of your life. You are such a joy!
I’m a boomer and we had poppies. They were given to you if you made a donation for veterans. I also had to memorize the poem, “In Flanders Field” We recited it in unison. Novemeber 11 was a Holy day in my town…Lakehurst, New Jersey home of the Lakehurst Naval Air Station and the Marines. Fort Dix, Army post only 20 miles away as was McGuire Air Force Base. I still have my fathers poppy he wore every year. It is good to remember the sacrifices made by the men, the women and the children who gave their fathers so we can be free. Thank you.
I’m singing this but you probably can’t hear it all the way on the other side of the USA from my perch here in San Diego County. Then again, you might, I’m kinda loud. “Enter me me me me! Pahleeze lees lees, thank you you you- wonderful you.” Repeat chorus lots and lots of times.
I think I did hear that Karen!
Oh good! Yay! Yay! Yay! (Alternate verse)
Hi, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was a Canadian. Like the UK we also wear the poppy in remembrance of the fallen. As a Canadian Armed Forces member, if lost many friends on different tours of duty, they and those that came before are always on my mind. When I pin that poppy on every November – we will remember them. Thank you for a beautiful post.
What a lovely post about a special day. Thank you for highlighting
the beautiful things in life.
My Dad, a veteran of WWll, used to have poppies in Nov. Wow, I had really not thought about the significance. He has been gone almost 30 yrs. A tear for the poppies. England is such a lovely place.I love all the pictures. I am currently watching In Her Majesty’s Service on Acorn. Love it. I love your lessons on England. Thank you again for all you share. Hi Vanna, please be safe as you dive into the huge pool of notes.
Thank you for the beautiful trip back to England. I needed that bright spot in my day. I think I’ll make some of those little poppies and share at work for Vetran’s Day!!! Love the little plates, hoping I get lucky!!!!
Ooh! Yes please! I’d love a set of your dishes! Thank you! Fingers crossed!
So enjoyed this post. Hoping someday to explore my English roots in person. Thank you for the vicarious experience:) And I will intentionally find poppies this November! Carol in Arizona
Susan,
Thank you for such a beautiful post. From time to time we have Veteran’s in the area, selling poppies outside of store fronts. I hope I see one soon. If not, I’m going to make a poppy out of paper. Your blog and posts are such a respite from the craziness of the world. Thank you for all you do. It is appreciated more than you can know. Happy Autumn!
Hi Susan,
Thank you for a beautiful post on Remembrance AND my Willard, all arriving today! You have made my day! Happy Autumn to you!
Hugs from Barbara S. in Florida
Wonderful post today !! Thank you. Never knew what the poppies were about, other than donating and receiving one. Thanks for the information !!
Hi Susan,
Another wonderful blog. I enjoyed the story of the Poppy Tradition and Remembrance Day as well as more on your trip to England.
Thank you for offering another giveaway of your new products…….they’re lovely.
PS…BTW Just read a book you might be interested in reading……To The New Owners by Madelieine Blais. It’s a memoir of a well loved Martha’s Vineyard family vacation house….history of the island…….it’s famous visitors….and the eventual sad ending of it’s eventual sale.
Beautiful post Susan. Looking forward to Willard!
Loved your blog about Rembrance Day in England. The American Legion still offers them here. I always buy one to celebrate Veteran’s Day as I was a military wife for 20 years.
What a lovely story. You make me want to walk with you in England to enjoy the lovely changing season.
Thank you for the inspiration. I can’t see how anyone who’s read this blog could not buy a poppy the next time their given the opportunity.
Was just given one of your mugs for my birthday, so beautiful!
Hope to collect the all!
My favorite part of the last image has to be the fat-bottomed doggie at the door. Poppies for remembrance is a lovely tradition. I vaguely remember them from when my Dad belonged to the VFW, when I was a young girl. I love the sweet little dishes, and especially the one that says things taste better in small houses (I think?).
What a beautiful tradition and remembrance❣️
I have such sweet memories of being part of the marching band when in school. When we were in parades, there were veterans selling poppies. It was always such a treat when my dad would hand me one. My dad has been gone for over 20 years, but I still have my treasured memories.
Love your posts! They are such life softeners for me. I remember the poppies when I was a young girl, everyone wore them for Veterans Day back then. We kept the fallen in our memories and did not forget their sacrifices for all of us here in America.
Love the poppy tradition. 🌺
Wonderful story telling Susan! Makes me sad & happy alternately. ( Not a bad thing).
My experience with poppies is back in the 70′ s in a small town in Montana. My husband was a member of the local VFW and he was the “Poppies Man”. He attached them all over his clothing and walked around “downtown”, going in and out of businesses selling them. We buy them every year & now go to our grandson’s school where they honor the veterans with a program. My husband wears my Dad’s 1940’s era Army cap in remembrance in him, although he still has his 60’s era uniform himself.
It is a beautiful fall day here in Northern Idaho and I’m feeling very grateful we have not had to endure Great War in our home land.
On a lighter note I would love to have my name picked by Vanna!
Happy fall from our home to yours!
I’ve been to Bladon to see The prime minister and his wife, in 1979. I want to go back someday need be I can hide in your suitcase next trip to England.
What an interesting and lovely post. I always look forward to to your posts.
Thank you, Susan, for that wonderful POPPY Post, which swept this old Anglophile right back to the trips I’ve been lucky enough to make to England. And brought back the memory of the Poppies for Veterans I knew in my youth. Like many, I haven’t seen them for years now. I’ve loved Willard for a few years, but I’m new to the Blog, altho I thought I’d signed up once before; but I’m an Old fan of yours, discovering you when my grandchildren were very young (now have Great-grands!) I look forward to “following you around” in future, and would be very delighted to be a winner — tho I’m a “winner” just to know of you!
Believing there is hope…. needed to read that in this country of turmoil.
Thank you !