Well, we made it home! I thought I’d do a little recap for you … with MUSICA! 💞
Here we are, just leaving Southampton not all that long ago . . . waving a tearful good bye to luv-lee England, more in love than ever! It could not have been a better trip home. I think we have to remember to ALWAYS travel by ship at the end of June! The water was sparkling and flat most of the way . . . we even saw dolphins!! It was so amazing and wonderful and special to see them jumping out of the water, arching in unison, going along with us next to the ship. 🐬
The good ship Queen Elizabeth was just ahead of us as we left Southampton, making a very pretty picture with all the little boats escorting her out of the harbor.
The moon was up when we caught up with her . . . I hope our ship looked as pretty to them as theirs did to us!
The setting sun shone on her as we went by and she turned off to whatever wonderful place she was going.
The moon followed us on the Queen Mary 2 all the way home. We left England on a Sunday, the moon was full on Wednesday, and we arrived home, along with the moon, the following Sunday . . . pondering the gift of each day . . .
The moon made a path to our stateroom twice in this photo, both outside and also reflected in the door to our deck …
We had amazing fresh ocean air, I had my books, I took naps, I took a bubble bath, I had room service, I wrote in my diary, I went dancing, I walked around and around the boat and worked out in the gym: EVERY day was a Red Letter Day!
It was the most wonderful thing. I took this in the morning, the moon is actually setting …
Here it is, on another night, right over us at 1 am …
And after six luv-lee days of this, at about 4:30 am on Sunday July 1, the first lights of Long Island came into view . . . it’s hard to describe how it felt, it had been a long time. We left our home March 4, and here we were, back again.
Coming home after a long slow voyage over the wide ocean, experiencing the world space as it is … is majestic. We were pinching ourselves as we glided quietly through the dawn, seawater washing over the sides of the ship, toward the lights of the Verrazano Narrows bridge.
We ran up top to see it up close as we went under it and found out we weren’t alone!
Everyone was taking pictures, watching tug boats as we passed the twinkling lights along the shore.
See the lit-up cameras? Notice the stairs, look at the top, see the people crowding the rail to get a view of New York? People come a long way to do this, in more ways than one!
I looked back, as we passed under the bridge . . .
And then we got our first glimpse of the most wonderful welcome home you could get, the Statue of Liberty (her light is shining there on the left). It was perfect timing, we arrived home in time to celebrate the Fourth!
As you know, the Statue of Liberty was a gift to America from France to celebrate our 100 year anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. 🇺🇸
She was assembled in France, then taken apart to be sent to America and came to us in 350 pieces! I love these old photos. Seeing her in pieces is surreal!
The sculptor used his mom’s face for his model. What a good son!
The first bit finished was Liberty’s right hand and torch ~ which was shipped to Philadelphia and put on display. For a fee of 50 cents, visitors could climb a ladder inside the hand to the balcony around the torch. Ah. luv-lee history! I imagine no one had the slightest idea of what was really to come, but this probably gave a tiny hint.
The unveiling took place with parades, a Presidential speech, fireworks, cannons, flags and an overflowing New York City ~ she’d already caught the imagination of America.
And now it was our turn. Standing there in the hushed dawn light, it was easy to imagine what an inspiration the Lady was to the huge numbers of immigrants arriving at Ellis Island ~ if your family came to America on a ship after 1886, they were greeted by Lady Liberty. Can you imagine the thrill? And for us too, it was total chills. Five-thirty in the morning and EVERYONE was up and dressed and on top of the ship for our arrival, arms around each other, tears in the eyes, cameras clicking, all together experiencing . . .
. . .excited to see the light of her torch. Her formal name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.”
Wow. Right? Just beautiful. I took this photo with my cell phone and it almost looks like a painting.
When the sun came up everyone applauded!
SO American, so Fourth of July! Such a perfect welcome!
The moon was going down as the sun came up behind us shining on the front of the ship.
Hello new day.
An amazing morning of celebration ~ for tourists and for us, coming home sweet home.
Everyone was taking their last photos . . .
And saying good bye to an amazing crossing . . .
wah.
So long ship, until we meet again . . . save our place!
You say good bye, and I say hello . . .
I found a porter and we gathered our 50 billion pieces of luggage while Joe went to rent a car . . . and soon, off we went. HOME was beginning to come into focus, but we still had a five-hour drive and a ferry ride before we would turn into our driveway 😻. LOOK at the AMAZING Brooklyn Bridge!
We were a little worried when we saw this!
But no worries, the nursery was open . . . we needed flowers at home so we stopped here, and loaded up at the supermarket . . .
Everything was getting precariously close to the ceiling of the car, but there was still breathing room!
Across Connecticut we went . . . into Rhode Island . . .
Through Providence . . .
To our home state!
And everywhere people were getting ready for the 4th …
Flags flying …
I just put the camera up to the car window and clicked, because flags were flying everywhere . . . what a welcome home!
Down Main Street in Falmouth, all decked out in flags . . .
And finally, to the BOAT!!! Thar she blows!
And while we waited for our ferry, the sky turned pink and the sun began to go down.
And pretty soon it was our turn to board . . . I could hear Jack meowing from here . . .
Off we go . . . by this time I’ve lost all pretense to calm dignified travel, I’m DYING to get home! This boat can’t go fast enough.
We sit up top on a soft balmy night heading across the sound to our Island, a 45 minute trip. We drove off the ferry and down the familiar streets of our small town . . .
We turned into our driveway…by now I’ve almost lost consciousness, I can barely remember, but we put the key into the kitchen door . . . and the lock wouldn’t turn! I could see through the window in the door and there, on the floor, was Jack, looking at me. His eyes were round as he threw himself down, rolled onto his back, twisting and wiggling and pawing the air . . . Joe ran around to the back door while I whined and cooed through the window.
We finally made it in and spent the evening purring at each other (me and Jack, Jack and Joe, me and Joe), while unpacking. Sweetly, Jack was perfectly willing to repeat his rolling wiggling performance on the ironing board the next morning when I had my camera ready!
Never tell me cats don’t show love.
Because this is what it looks like. And it hasn’t stopped! We’ve been forehead to forehead, inseparable, every day.
He watches me unpack, get organized, do laundry . . . slightly suspicious that this might not last… “She is my sun, my moon, and my stars . . .”
Fear not Jack! He sleeps with us, of course, he curls up on me when I take a nap ~and when we go out for a walk, he does the wiggling thing when we come home. When I sit down to read my book, he cuddles right up. He was well-loved while we were away ~ he plays ponytail band better now than he ever did! Being at home is, as I know you know, a wonderful thing.
With my own luv-lee shadows through the linden trees, then through the windows . . .
and into my own living room . . .
My own top of the stove to decorate the way I like . . . we know where everything is! We know how it all works! These are little pleasures in life!
I count my blessings while polishing my wand . . .
Loving everything!
Saying hello once more to the children . . .
Walking out to the garden with my scissors on these warm mornings . . .
picking roses and pulling weeds . . . getting the fountain out of the barn for the kitchen porch . . .
. . . and filling my little vases . . . Oh the glory of it. Going away makes coming home better than imaginable.
Our friend Jaime gave us a welcome home party in the back garden of her most adorable house . . . It was Jaime’s son Duncan (one of triplets!) who took care of Jack.
It was heaven seeing everyone again . . .
Gorgeous salad, Jaime is amazing! One of the most generous souls I’ve ever known. She’s a caterer, receiver of the “Best of Vineyard” award for years and years!
We’ve had a ton of unpacking to do, a lot to catch up on, you know, the bank, the dentist, all the regular things . . . but so far we’re trying to be balanced. 
Our walks to the water are still my favorite part of the day . . .
The Island was crowded on the Fourth … This is a tiny beach has a very shallow protected beach, perfect for paddling children, and very popular especially on Summer holidays!
But early on other days we have the place pretty much to ourselves.
Not tired of the sea!
And to add to the wonderfulness of everything, your sweet comments on the last post were delightful, making me cry many times. 💞 Without you this trip would still have been magical, but with just a little less sparkle ~ you made it so much more fun . . . trying to see everything not only through my own eyes, but maybe through yours too, having you along has gotten me a little bit outside myself and that can only be a good thing!
Oh, yes, I’ve been unpacking our memories too, getting out my watercolors early in the morning, getting organized . . . I’m going to have so much fun putting this new book into my “good” handwriting . . . adding the photos, the watercolors, the quotes and recipes, the how-to’s, and all the other little bits and pieces I think you will enjoy seeing in this book.
I wrote the whole thing day-by-day, in the moment, while we were in England, Wales, and Ireland . . . I also kept a diary when we were in Scotland and I plan to include bits of that too . . . all the best most informative and enjoyable parts. We learned so much, had so many amazing moments, I couldn’t possibly tell you everything while we were there ~ each day was too stuffed full, so there will be surprises! And now for the fun part, I get to write it . . . Stick with me while I do it. I’ll hurry.
So here’s a few things that happened while we were at sea . . .
The new 2019 Calendars went up for presale! (Can’t believe it, means it’s almost fall!!!🤣) This is the cover for the 12 x 12″ Wall-Calendar. They’re up for presale now, but they should all be at the Studio by the middle of next week.
Here’s a little preview of the November wall-calendar page . . . with a quote that came directly from one of our Girlfriends, Lee Gordon, here in our comment section! Isn’t it a cute idea? I know, it’s playing with your food, but canned black olives are different! I keep telling you how much I love your words and thoughts, well, it’s true! 🎃
We have the Mini Calendars, too, as always, and the Blotter Calendar, and the Purse Calendar … (That’s the Purse Calendar in the upper left photo above⤴.) You might remember the publisher decided to do away with the plastic cover for the Purse Calendars … which resulted in the loss of that little storage pocket on the inside covers. SO, Kellee, being the genius that she is, fixed us a fix! You can click HERE to receive free papers, pattern, and directions to make your choice of two different pockets (as shown above) to add to your calendar if this is something you would like.
Our Girlfriend, Posy Lough, made our wonderful new Alphabet Sampler pre-printed Embroidery Kit … I left a place for the date in the design, and for you to embroider your own name. Of course there’s bunting! I hope you have fun with it! It’s in now, it comes with directions, embroidery floss, and pre-printed 12″ x 15″ cotton fabric…
Last but not least . . . I think you all received your new cups, right? I hope so and I hope you LOVE them! 💞… and I have a little surprise . . . I thought as a 🎵 Welcome Home to Me 🎶 I would do a new giveaway. We finally have our cups in all four seasons! So one of you lucky girls is going to receive this entire set (yes, I do hope I’m helping with some of your Christmas shopping)! All you have to do is leave a comment ~ just scroll to the bottom of this post and in teeny tiny letters (look closely) you will see the word “comment.” Click there, leave a comment and you will be automatically entered! In not too long from now, we will have a drawing, our in-house “random number generator” we call Vanna, will draw the winning name. I’ll be announcing the winner here on the blog and sending an email to the lucky person! So don’t forget to say hello! ❤ Always so much to look forward to with you Girlfriends! My favorite thing!
Thank you for the joy you bring into our lives. Welcome home!
I find comfort and inspiration in all your creativity. It is like reading a favorite children’s story to a grandchild for the first time. Just a little of the magic in life. It is fun living vicariously through your travels and art work. You pick the most amazing quotes
Susan, it is actually through china mugs that I discovered you. My parents go to Boston every spring. (My Dad ran the Boston Marathon 26 times in a row and was part of the quarter century club, and he was going to run it for the 27th time, but that was halted in the year of the Boston bombing, because he was stricken with debilitating rheumatoid arthritis in January. He had already paid his entry fee and his medication had improved him to the point where he could move enough to travel, but not run a marathon. They decided to go to Boston anyway to support the runners. They watched the top runners come in and then they went for lunch, when they heard the bomb blasts and they were evacuated from the building in which they were. If my Dad had been running, my Mom would have been waiting at the finish line for him, right where the bombs went off and she could have been injured. I think of all those people who were killed or injured that day. My parents go back every year to watch and support the Boston Marathon runners). So I discovered you because they were staying in Boston and they did a day trip to Cape Cod, where they went to the Cook Shop. I had asked them to watch out for china mugs, which the Cook Shop carries. My Dad sent me a photo of the mugs that they had, and I noticed this mug in the photo that said Castle Cottage, which I didn’t know, so I googled it and that was when I discovered Susan Branch. I have been following you since then, April 18th, on your website, your blog, your Twitter. I have enjoyed it all and appreciate how much work and creative detail you put into your displays, paintings, writings and products. And I discovered you just in time to enjoy your trip to Ireland and the United Kingdom and your Beatrix Potter gathering. What a journey! You have informed me about so many interesting things. Thank you for all of it. And, for me, it all started with a Google search for a mug, designed by Susan Branch. My Dad didn’t end up getting me a mug, because I was at work and by the time I got the photo and message from the Cook Shop, they had already left the store to go back to Peabody. Maybe next April. I am looking forward to following you through all the seasons. Thank you so much.
Oh My God Tracy … by the GRACE of God. Counting your Blessings out loud! I love how things happen, people find people. Thank you for that! Hugs to you and your parents!
Love reading about your adventures thru your blog and books.What a talent you have Susan Branch!! I drink a cup of tea every morning in one of your lovely china cups given to me by my dear friend Susan B. from Richmond,VA. She and her handsome husband Bob have attended your last two events in England. I was able to find them in your Hill Top picnic photos and video! ❤️
Having been to London and Dorset, it was joy to be able to follow you on your latest trip and to see more of the UK through your beautiful pictures. Thank you for all your effort in showing us what I call a bit of heaven. Always remember your work and effort is truly appreciated. Thank you and regards to Joe and love to beautiful Jack.
What a journey we’ve all been on. I’m exhausted! But blessed. 😊 I’m scared to use my England mug, that I bought from Susan, incase I’d break it. But if I won this lovely giveaway, I’d be more apt to use it. Because I’d have some backups then. Ha!
They’re very hard to break, I do use mine every day! And they go in the dishwasher!
Hi Susan~
My given name is Dorothy Bonita and you teased me as you signed your
autumn cookbook to me & said that I could have been called Dotty Bonnie !
I had just “lost” my husband & you were so kind.
Living in Los Osos on the Central Coast has always been our special place !
Thank you for your sweet views of the world that you paint for us to see!
Love, Bonnie
I hope I’ll see you at the Apple Farm Bonnie! xoxoxo
Sounds like such a wonderful trip. Excited for the new book! Will get a purse calendar, glad for the instructions to make a cover with a pocket–that’s where I put appointment reminder cards.
The pockets turned out great!!!
Dear dear Sue
Thank you once again for taking us along on your trip! We had a fabulous time and we’re still in awe of all the beauty, delicious feasting, safe and great driving by Joe, walks, all the detail in photos and videos and so much more but the best and most important item…….the friendships! We can’t wait to relive it in our own hands when your new book of this adventure comes out! Thank you thank you thank you for all you, your dear husband and your extended family of Susan Branch does for the girlfriends and guyfriends of the world! All of your talents touch and lift us up beyond words and in ways you may never know! From the bottom of my heart and I know thousands more 🙂
Thank you!
With gratitude, appreciation and so much love!
Juli
I forgot to say thank you for all you share and teach us along the way also!
I don’t see my comment and don’t want to duplicate it if it may show up down the way 😉
Juli
Welcome home! Love your adventures because it usually means new beautiful reading material for us ❤️.
Welcome home!! 😍
Goody,-a give-away! Wonderful you’ve picked my name!
Glad you are home, safe and sound. Enjoy the rest of your summer on MV.
Such a wonderful trip!! Thank you for bringing us with you!! ❤️❤️
I always enjoy your blogs and pictures. It’s like hearing from a friend. I also want to thank you for helping me “meet” some friends via the penpal suggestions. Hoping to add some mugs to my SB collection!
Makes me so happy to hear that Robin, love when we can connect!
There’s no place like home! Thank you for sharing your life and travels. And I would love to take up stitching again, I’m putting the embroidery kit on my Christmas list! Thank you for always including music in your messages, it’s lovely!
Enjoyed your trip.
Thank you for posting and sharing your life.
Always uplifting and a joy to read.
Beautiful posts…photos…your elegant words…thank you for taking us on your journey and getting loved and cuddles from Jack♥️ on returning home…so so sweet…
I think I had commented but can’t miss a chance for 4 more cups! I’m using the summer cup each morning.
Welcome home! The sight of Lady Liberty always brings a lump to my throat.
Especially these days.
Welcome Home !!
Does the ride get rough in the open seas?? Do you prefer QEIi or Queen Mary??? Would love to take this trip one day!!! On our last day of Alaskan Cruise!!
Welcome home! Love your cups and would love to have them. Still looking forward to your “Breakfast Book!”
Thank-you so much for keeping us in your thoughts and posts during your wonderful trip. I enjoyed all of the updates and pics and videos. I am so glad you had such a great time. Thanks again, Karen
Dear Susan,
What a beautiful trip and oh how wonderful it will be to read your heart felt book of all your travels. So happy you are home and especially for Jack, what a darling greeting you both got from a devoted kitty. Sending a great big welcome home hug! ❤️ Wendy-Louise ox
Hello Sue,
Welcome back home to the states…I have been following since way back.
I got the privilege of meeting you a couple of times, 1st in Irvine, Ca at a quilt guild. I brought a very lrg tote bag with my collection of books (2009 ?) and you graciously signed a lot of them…you commented on how you had forgotten about some of them. And the 2nd time was @ Vroman’s bookstore in Pasadena during you “A Fine Romance” book tour. I loved how you also read from the book before the signing.
Thank you so much for including us on your travels
Susan, I continue to turn to your blog for peaceful, calming breaks from the current anxiety-making news. When I see your beautiful pictures of the UK and Ireland I yearn to go there again with a true ache in my heart. I come here also for your admirable positivity in these times, and of course, for Jack!
Happy days are here again! Your home safely! Thank you for creating magic!
Always grateful that you so generously share your life with us.
Welcome safely home.
What a beautiful trip, I am really glad you posted this on Twitter as it allowed me to find this lovely blog. The pictures are beautiful as are your descriptions. I’m glad you had such a wonderful time and look forward to looking around your site. I absolutely love tea sets and whimsical mugs that float me away when I get a moment to enjoy a nice cup of something warm and cozy.
Susan, your blog just fills me up with positive things, with creativity and dreams about trips I plan to take to England via an ocean liner and to Martha’s Vineyard. Thanks for your positivity and love for your girlfriends around the world! Your Salt Lake girlfriends hope you and Joe will visit us again at the King’s English bookstore! Until then, happy Summer and give Jack a scratch behind the ears from me!
Your Statue of Liberty history and coming in to New York harbor gave me chills, too! The Island looks just like we left it a few weeks ago. Enjoy the rest of your summer with Happy Jack and all of your sweet friends and neighbors.
Hi Susan,
The photos and story telling are amazing! Home Again, at last!
Thanks!
I tried leaving a comment yesterday but I don’t think it worked. Maybe it was too long. I love your website, blog and Twitter, Susan! Thank you so much. Your mugs are beautiful!
We are headed to England as an anniversary/retirement celebration. What one thing do you suggest I not miss? I’ll be sipping and pondering the prospects, reviewing your posts and pictures.
Ps our loyal kitty friend of 18 years died Friday so I’ll zip passed your Jack pictures for now.
Would love, love, Love to be the recipient of those beautiful cups!!
Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall each and everyone is special and hold many memories…they’re all my favorites!
Susan, you make my heart smile with every new post. Your trip was Amazing! Can’t wait for the book version. Currently sipping my morning coffee from my Jack in the Books mug. Enjoy the rest of your Summer. Looking forward to Fall!
2910 Responses! And when I tried to find mine, to make sure it went through so I could be in the drawing, it was IMPOSSIBLE! How DO you do it?
Just to say it again, in case the first time didn’t make it through – so glad you are home and living your fairy tale life. 🙂
Looks like a most wonderful time was had on your trip. Your mugs are so beautiful! I bought my sweet Mother in law one for Mother’s Day last year and she loves it so much!!!
If only wishes would come true …
Welcome home! 💕Thank you for all you do to ensure
we get to vacation right along beside you! Thank you for your joy seen in all the small things and the grandeur and beauty of our big wonderful world! Your lovely tea cups are such treasures. Hope I am lucky! ❤️
I am so inspired by your blog, newsletter, books, social media, and so much more. You bring a reminder of sanity in a crazy world, and offer one model for an author/artist to follow. I have your books on my shelf, and have followed you for years. Loved your posts during the trip, and look forward to reading the book you are writing. Thank you!
Living in NJ keeps me in awe of the distinct change of seasons. These cups fit perfectly with my quest to pay attention. Thanks for sharing your love of travel!
So glad you are back. I missed seeing Jack and all your lovely stories and pictures. Welcome home.
I was delighted to receive an unused copy of your keepsake book with stickers recently! How of how shall I decide what to put in it!😁
Oh! Would love me some Susan Branch cups to enjoy tea with friends. Glad you are home safe and had such a luv-lee time!
What a wonderful journey. Welcome home to new england.
Beautiful trip…Beautiful cups…thank you for the entry❣️
Hi Susan — Welcome home! It was great traveling along with you, as always! You don’t have to post this question if it has been asked and answered already (although I try never to miss a post, you may have mentioned it in answer to someone else’s inquiry…). But, I was wondering… since I don’t think you have mentioned her in quite a while, is Girl Kitty still with you? Or has she donned her kitty-angel wings?
just think of it, going through the seasons and having tea in delightful tea mugs, oh the joy!!!! but then you can use them whenever you wish and enjoy them even if it isn’t in the right season for tea is right anytime in any delightful Susan Branch mug
I have purchased the Kitty Love cup – it’s on my desk for afternoon tea. I work for “kitty lovers”…how blessed am I?!?
I love all of the cups, I love the website, I love it all! It makes me happy! 🙂 Thank you for sharing your wonderful, creative, happy life! This is what the world needs….”What the world needs now is love, sweet love.”
Thank you Gail … I take it that it means you have kitties at work? I hope so! xoxo
Dear Susan Branch,
This is my first time reading your blog, but I have several of your books, and have given them as gifts, too. The first book of yours I read is the Girlfriends Forever book that I found at an antique mall. I find that fitting since my favorite part of antique malls is the delicious meal at the tea room, and chatting with my friends!
Anyways, it’s cool that your blogs are just like your books, with your beautiful art and funny, sweet memories. It amazes me that you draw your book images in the exact sizes they appear in. You’re extremely talented to be able to do such fine details!
I’m really glad that you enjoyed a “luv-lee” trip! You’ve been very busy painting 4 different calendars. Other calendars tend to be the same whether they are wall sized or the mini version, but you did the extra effort of making them both unique.
Do you have an Easter or a Spring themed book?
I’m going to order your memior that reflects on how you rebuilt yourself after you got divorced, because sadly that’s my current reality. Thank you for sharing that with us, so that people who enjoy reading can learn a bit of wisdom as they go through a similar experience.
I’m glad I could reach out to you on your blog! Enjoy your day!
Thank you dear Sarah, for all your kind words ~ it’s nice to meet you! I’m sorry you are in that difficult situation. It’s not fun while it’s happening, but I am here to tell you there is wonderful happy life on the other side. I wrote that book, hoping it will help. All my best!
Absolutely love your posts! They make me happy. You are so uplifting. I can only imagine the time you spend getting the pictures, quotes and placements just right. I appreciate it! I bought two of your summer cups and my tea tastes better! Lovely. I gave one to a relative going through a tough time to brighten her day, as my cup does for me. You are spreading cheer all over the world Susan 🙂
Besos, Pamela xoxoxo
Hello! Welcome home!
I have so enjoyed reading sbout your trip. It is so fun
Traveling around the world seeing the pictures of my
friends. Hope you don’t mind my including you as one.
Thank you.
So happy for your wonderful trip and that you and Joe are home safe and sound…love, love, love everything that you do!
I’ve so enjoyed being a part of your journey. We travel a lot ourselves (hiked the Cotswolds last year…it was spectacular!), but coming home is always like a hug from Mama…warm and welcoming!
Welcome back, enjoyed the statue if Liberty history makes me miss New York, where I lived in Nyack on the Hudson!
Tamara
At age 72 (& 1\2), I wasn’t expecting to be reunited with a college chum whom I adored, but it happened, and we are sooo happy, and I am so happy that she introduced me to you, Susan. When I see there’s a new note from you, I try to not open it for a day, just to enjoy the delicious feeling of joyful anticipation! My dear husband and I are traveling in Europe this year and will spend October in Lewes, England. Thanks to you, I’m more excited than ever!
How heavenly Ginny! Hugs to you and college chum… xoxo
I’m living by the quote… If you can dream it, you can make it so. I have always wanted to go to Scotland and I believe I can make it so, but until then I will journey with you in your blog. Thank you for sharing your adventures. It’s a joy to read and imagine the excitement.
Barbara Kuzdzal
I have followed your blogs for a long time, and I so enjoy reading about your wonderful travels. Somehow, I can just imagine being with you, and we are all having so much fun together. I’ll be thrilled beyond belief if I’m chosen to receive your 4 seasons mugs giveaway!! Lastly, thank you so much for sharing your life with all of your followers. We all look so forward to reading your blogs and hearing what you and Joe are up to.
I’ve been reading your blogs for a long time, and I want to thank you for sharing your life and your journeys with all of us. I feel like I’ve actually been with you, and we have had such a lot of fun together, traveling and visiting so many exciting places. I would be thrilled beyond belief to be chosen to receive the 4 seasons tea cups giveaway. The cups are darling, and I would enjoy using them every time I savor my wonderful tea.
I know the contest is over but just had to write and say thank you. I will be back in Maine soon and (finally!) in a zone where I can grow peonies! I have been looking at online catalogs and just couldn’t decide – but you just helped me, because Fairy’s Petticoat is beautiful and just what I want. And I love the name! This is one of so many tips you’ve given for life in New England that have made it so much sweeter. So nice to have a beauty appreciator lighting the way. Thanks again for all that you do!
Shirley Temple is another one I love, also fluffiest pink. Have fun Melissa!
Good morning, Sweet Susan,
You asked where to find Grasshopper’s Go Fund Me – It’s titled:
“SAVE GRASSHOPPER MY CAT”
Not very original but pretty shook up. Took me 3 weeks to get Go Fund Me up and running – I know I’m not real computer savvy but I nor anyone I know could do it. Finally I asked the Apple man, Joh, at the local Apple store who teaches classes I take – He met me at Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company in Santa Barbara’s outside picnic tables and performed the miracle of getting it up and running,
Thank you, Jon, and the people who have already contributed from Grasshopper and me! People are fantastic and we’re very grateful.
Finally broke down and cried when an old friend and fellow Deepak Chopra Center
Meditation Instructor sent me one of first donations. She remembers when I’d take Grasshopper as a 5 – 6 month old kitten to seminars and retreats down at Deepak’s. Seems like yesterday and so much has happened. He has been my loyal, loving, trusted companion!
Your prayers are welcome – there’s a 25% chance in cats it’s not cancer…..
just need to have the surgery ASAP. He’s not eating today and can’t get comfortable. 🙁
Much love to each of you, Sisters!
Sandra and Grasshopper
I just checked out your site, and it looks like you are doing very well Sandra! I’m so happy, you go girl, and kisses to your darling Grasshopper!
Oh, to own one of your cups! ‘Tis a fond dream of mine. And all of this pink brings me great joy! As do the pics of your charmed New England summer!
I have FIRST EDITIONS of Heart of the Home, Christmas from the Heart of the Home, Summertime, Christmas and Girlfriends Forever. I guess that qualifies and a big fan. I was very happy to find you on Facebook.
It qualifies! Happy to meet you Nicki!
As always I take the trip across the pond vicariously with you! I actually leave in 2 weeks to travel to England and also some other European countries. It doesn’t matter how many times I go to England I always want to return! My husband is 1/2 English and spent a lot of his childhood there so it is fun to experience it all with him. Thank you for sharing with us!
Bon Voyage Patricia, have a wonderful time!
I love reading about trip. you go to all the places I wish I could go to and hope to someday. I love your photos, it make me feel like I am there. I am a true anglophile.
Birds of a feather!
Hi Susan! I absolutely adore your beautiful artwork! Everything you create and share is a feast for my eyes!! 💖
Dear Susan, You are the sweetest person and touch our hearts with your
beautiful writings. Thank you for sharing your life journeys and giving us
so much joy and love with your blog. You are truly amazing!
So grateful!
Peggy F. Canada
Thank you Peggy, hello dear Canada! xoxo
So delighted you made it home safely; thoroughly enjoyed taking the trip “through your eyes”. Thank you for all that you do; it is such an island of beauty and calm in an otherwise hectic world.
So glad you had a wonderful trip and I’m also glad you’re back on the wonderful Vineyard.
Safe and sound.
Love your mugs! My lovely daughter Lucy bought me the red letter day mug for my birthday
Sweet!
Welcome home Susan! Book name ideas…..”Across The Pond Enchantment”, “Enchantment of the Heart”? idk giggle….. Luv, luv, luv the Jack reunion!!! I think I heard the purring all the way in the Mid-West!
I have no doubt it was loud enough! 😻
Welcome home Susan, loved hearing all about your voyage back to the U.S.A Seeing the Statue of Liberty is just awe-inspiring-at any time of day or night. I remember my Mom always saying “Home again, Home again, Jig-Iditarod jig! Enjoy your beautiful island!
Susan welcome home…I just posted a comment, but misspelled my Mom’s saying when I was a little girl-it was Home again, home again, jiggity-jig! Thank you for sharing your beautiful trip home, and how lovely our Lady Liberty is at any time of day or night. Enjoy your summer on beautiful Marth’s Vineyard! July 26, 2018
Dear Susan,
This will probably be a looong email and you may not even open it for view but I think it needs saying. I agree that we need beauty and the glow of “pinkness” in our lives but I think we also need to face what is happening in our much beloved country. You addressed it once before and got slammed by some people, but the majority supported you. We can’t make this evilness go away by training our eyes elsewhere. We are at a point where we stand to lose our freedoms and our Democracy. Our President is fawning over our enemies and denigrating our allies. He never holds Putin accountable for hacking into our elections and in doing so has changed the coarse of history. Putin even admitted to having his people “help” Trump get elected during the press conference in Helsinki, but it has amazingly disappeared in future editing. Trump met with Putin for TWO HOURS in private but has yet to let any of his advisors know what was discussed. That is not how a presidency works in America. He lies continuously (which can be proven if you put tapes side by side) and yet his followers continue to believe him because HE says it isn’t true. He just talked to a Vets group and told them not to believe what they see or hear because it is not the truth – huh? We used to be smarter than this. Joseph Goebbels, under Hitler’s regime, said that if you say something often enough it will be believed – do I hear “fake news, witch hunt, no collusion”. If Trump is innocent, ask yourself why is he fighting the Mueller investigation so strongly? Why has he nominated a judge for the Supreme Court who has written that no sitting president should be convicted if he is found guilty of breaking the law? Is one man above the law of the land just because he happens to be President? Kavanaugh said that the country would face upheaval if such a thing was to be allowed and yet we went on just fine after Nixon resigned and after Kennedy and Lincoln were assassinated. This man cannot be allowed to be elected to the Supreme Court, especially after Mitch McConnell would not accept a nominee from President Obama when he still had 11 months to go in his presidency. You cannot put in rules that are only helpful to your party and then deny them to the other one. Our country is at a perilous point in history my friends. If you want to keep watching our rights dwindle or disappear, if you want to support our present leader that supports a regime that shoots critics in the street, poisons them or jails them; who rips children out of their mothers’s arms; who meets in secret with dictators; who starts a tariff war that only penalizes his own people; who considers, for FOUR DAYS, turning our former ambassador to Russia over to that country to be questioned; who had the audacity to say that there are “good” people in the KKK and neo nazis; who is taking away all measures that protect our environment in favor of allowing oil and gas corporations to destroy it; who is, bit by bit destroying everything that President Obama put in place: who tweets juvenile derogatory remarks about critics, allies and international committees that we have been a member of and support and who, for god’s sake kept the Queen of England waiting for 15 minutes than that is your right and by all means do so, however, I am going to fight with all my might to hand our government back to the people and to insure that all of our rights, our freedoms and our DEMOCRACY will not be destroyed.
As I said at the beginning Susan, you may not let this go through but I feel it has to be said and people can respond directly to me and not hold you accountable for what I have said. We still have the right to free speech in this country and this my 2 cents.
So many people now blaming media, free press is first thing killed off in Hitler’s Germany, Putin’s Russia. President has made over 4,000 misleading statements since he took office. A Google search will tell the truth to anyone who cares. And we should all care from the very bottom of our hearts. The anger and vitriol at his rallies is frightening. I believe there will be violence. You can like your candidate without HATING, unless your candidate is telling you to hate. All unnecessary, incited, based on dangerous lies and conspiracy theories. Families breaking up over it. Russians wanting to undermine our democracy and tear our citizens apart and President helping them. Just let Mueller (who is a registered Republican with a perfect record, google it) do his job. Let the chips fall where they may.
Welcome home! I’m so happy you enjoyed your absolutely wonderful voyage to England. I can’t wait for your next book. I enjoy everything you write and I am sad when I finish because I don’t want it to end. Give Jack a hug and kiss from me. Susan, you are forever my favorite author. Enjoy your beautiful home and thanks for sharing your adventures.
Thank you Donna, that is the sweetest thing! xoxo
I always love to stowaway on your trips. The way you describe everything is amazing. Welcome home.
Sandy G
Dear Susan,
Love your blog! A wonderful friend has just told me about you, so it’s all new to me! I usually resists following blogs because I’m supposed to be working on a book, but I can’t seem to resist reading yours. An interesting coincidence is: I have a little box that holds cards and the girl illustrated on it is your girl holding onto her straw hat with streaming ribbons watching a sail boat going by. I’ve always loved it; it looks like summer to me. I turned it over and read the bottom: it said S. Branch, 2002. The quote on it is from Ghandi: There is more to life than increasing its speed. I’ve always loved that too.
Nancy Ann
I know that box! Lovely that you still have it! Good luck with your book! Hardest thing, but do take breaks! So very nice to meet you! xoxo
I loved all the Statue of Liberty pics and history. I’ve never seen her in person and one day hope to. What a great way to end a great trip!
Back when she was installed, anyone who traveled overseas HAD to go past her . . . less of us have this opportunity now, these days we need to put her on our bucket lists! Very worth it. Total chills!
My sister knows I love reading your blog and she usually gives me something you have designed or written but I have yet to receive a cup, which I was very disappointed on my birthday when I didn’t receive one. That’s why I haven’t ordered one and it would be like a belated surprise to win one! Please don’t ever quit your blog, tho I know it’s a lot of work there are so many of us who love reading and seeing all you have to post. God bless you and your little family.
Thank you so much Sarah! I hope your sister hops to for Christmas! xoxo
Oh Susan, you add such a spark of joy to my life. I lost my husband five years ago and what a loss it has been, but I have to say that reading your book “My Love Affair with England” has given me such pleasure and so many wonderful memories of trips my husband and I took to some of the areas you visited. Thank you!!
Ahh, I’m so happy to hear that, Carol. It’s quite a deep dive into the unknown, this kind of loss. 💞 Nothing for it, but lovely memories. Sending love xoxoxo
I have missed visiting with you. So much has ben going on in my life I wasn’t able to visit. I almost lost my youngest child of 24 she has three children. I lost my favorite cousin. And my brother jus died six days ago, and before the cousin my most beloved Uncle died in January. I love your blog very much. The photos and Jack You and Joe. Your garden and inside house warms my heart so I came to visit before getting ready for church. I have so much to catch up on.. I love your cups but hadn’t been able to get a one. It would be wonderful dream come true to win them. Though I wish everyone the best, with Love Janice
Oh my dear Janice. I’m glad you are able to come up for air. That’s too much for one person. Sending love. xoxo
Thank you girl friend😊💖💐
Susan, I so enjoy all of your England writings and memories! England has always been on my bucket list, but for now I will visit by reading and enjoying through all of your magical words and memories! Thank you for sharing with all of us! My grateful thanks also for your generous offer of a chance to win your beautiful cups! What an honor it would be to win something so beautiful!
3,048 comments as i write this…all a treasure to read as your blog is. Your stories of your travels are so peaceful and make such a warm feeling in my heart, thank you for sharing.
They are a treasure to read! When I hear on TV that someone’s “surprised” at the everyday niceness of people ~ when their honesty, bravery, love for life, when caring, creative, family-oriented natures come as some sort of surprise, I always think, you have no idea! That’s the NORMAL way of most people. It’s one reason I started this blog, so that everyone could see what I’ve been seeing for years ~ in the kind and loving cards and letters sent to me via snail mail … I thought everyone would be cheered to know how wonderful most people can be. Yes, as my grandma used to say, “There’s always a creep in the crowd,” but the crowd is the thing! Thank you Kelly! xoxo
Susan, Thank you so much for sharing your life with us.
I have read your book Isle of Dreams 8 times. My husband says “Are you reading that book again?” I bought one for my best friend and she loved it, so did her Mom who is 95. I am trying to get him to read it but no luck yet.
We will celebrate 42 years of marriage in August.
My best always to you . Your Joy has become my joy. Thank you so so much.
So cute. Tell him I said hi. xoxo
Just luv-lee as always. Thanks for taking us along. I can hardly wait for the book!! And the movie!! 😉
Fingers crossed! I think everyone is on summer vacation!
I love everything you do Susan! You bless me more than you’ll ever know. Thank you
Thank you back Rachel, that was very sweet. xoxo
It is wonderful to be home! Settle in and enjoy….
I want to update with a new post…I am SO CLOSE to having the book ready for handwriting and watercoloring! I keep thinking, Today it will be ready. But NOT! Sooooo Close! Thank you Sandy!
Best post ever!
Thank you for taking us girlfriends along on yor trip. Cannot wait for your book!
Thank you for taking us girlfriends along on your trip. Cannot wait for your book!
Hello Susan…Here I sit on my 53rd birthday, enjoying my porch, your website and the beautiful seaside breeze of this wonderful Jersey shore town in which I am so grateful to live. I am grateful for all of my good fortunes… especially my gift for painting which, like you, I find to be blissful. I have been a freelance artist for 32 years while also working full time in graphic arts and most currently, technical publications. I love reading your books and wandering through your blog/website as it takes me to a place where I truly long to be. At home with my watercolors. A few days ago, my boss lady (aka sub-human, Borg-like, Mary Poppins) gave me an ultimatum…take on the jobs of two people here at this company or you will no longer work here. After 13 years of loyalty and hard work I found this to be a real punch in the gut. I have been “let go” from positions a few times in the past due to a decline in business however this particular company is flourishing. I have decided to deliberately create something wonderful and positive out of this situation and with that I am already seeing the manifestations come forth. My initial rage led me into the office of a lawyer who couldn’t have been more custom-made for me. After willingly and patiently listening to my sob story I could see in her eyes that there was absolutely nothing illegal about the dragon lady’s proposal….it’s just crappy. One thing that sparked this sweet lawyer lady’s attention was the fact that I am an illustrator. She did not, however know that I am also a cat lady. She told me that she and her daughter (a creative writer) have been searching for an illustrator to help create a series of children’s books about the mischievous adventures of Bean (their cat). “They must be created…this is great stuff!” I swiftly pulled out my calling card displaying in all its glory my painting of Ocean Grove Jack. Then and there we both knew the real reason for my visit. As far as my day job…well, I’m not sure where I stand. Best case scenario is that I have a year to look for a nicer boss lady while working on the adventures of Bean 🙂 Thank you for all of the inspiration…xoxoxox MaryLou
Hi Susan, how do you print the photos to stick in your journals so quickly?
It depends, with some of my first travel diaries there were still places everywhere that developed film. I just leave open spaces where I write so I can put the photos in later. Now I wait until I get home to add them.
I hope I win!!! I love them all.
Hi Susan,
A few weeks ago I posted how much I loved the article in Victoria (you hadn’t yet seen it) and said I’d be visiting Martha’s Vineyard the following week during our vacation on Cape Cod. On the way to Woods Hole for the ferry, I said to my husband, “Maybe I’ll bump into Susan Branch today.” Of course I couldn’t remember what town you lived in, so I figured the chance was slim. As we waited to board the ferry as foot passengers, my daughter-in-law said, “Hmm. A Fine Romance,” and I looked up to see your van pulling away. I was disappointed that I missed seeing you! Our last stop of the day was Vineyard Haven, and I bought your M.V. mug at Bunch of Grapes book store. We had an hour to kill before the ferry, so we decided to walk around and look at the charming houses. As we turned the bend on a street, I looked up and saw the long drive to the back of your house, which I recognized from your blog! We walked back to the ferry as cars were pulling off, and there were you and Joe in your van! Anyhow, I waved and yelled hello, but I don’t think you saw me. Just in case, I was the woman in the white blouse and hat last Tuesday who waved at you with one hand and clutched my Bunch of Grapes bag in the other. 🙂
Love how you open up your world to all. I share your enthusiasm with nature, travel,painting and the fun of living our own lives each day.
Dearest Susan,
Oh, how I have LOVED your trilogy of books…’Fairy Tale Girl,’ ‘Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams,’ and ‘An Affair to Remember – Falling in Love With the English Countryside!’ A friend gave me the last book, and when it was finished, I couldn’t wait to get the first two…I haven’t put them down since I received them, and have even read each one twice! I LOVE the way you write, and have thoroughly enjoyed reading about your life, loves and passions. THANK YOU for sharing your memories, and your talent…I look forward to enjoying many more books from you! A new, true-blue fan! P.s. I am a ship aficionado (I sell cruises) and LOVE reading about life aboard the QM2…isn’t she AMAZING? Now you have to try the Queen Victoria, or Queen Elizabeth!