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!
I followed you on your whole trip, checking Instagram & Twitter everyday. Thank you so much for the trip. I truly had a GREAT time…..
Making my day Jody!
We love being away and how we love coming home…..your photos of our Lady Liberty are beautiful…..and a reminder that she belongs to the world….
take good care, you don’t have jet lag to contend with….tend your garden, and yes, hurry hurry with the book already!!!!! (after you tend your garden and go to the dentist!!!)
love and peace dear Ambassador
My positive pleasure Regina!
Welcome Home, Susan. I have enjoyed following your journey and look forward to reading the new book.
So many thank yous coming your way. I love that you document the final leg of your journey. I, too feel the same anticipation arriving home from a wonderful trip. Instead of an adorable kitty, I have three adorable Labradors waiting for me. As with your previous adventures, I anxiously awaited each new blog and twitter post. I had a wonderful “vacation” with you and Joe. I hope to be able to meet you at your book signing in California this fall. Fingers crossed. Bye!
Welcome home! You were missed, but it made me happy to know you were focusing on the “here and now,” not immersed in technology and missing what was going on around you at the time. The bluebell wood … my friend and I ran across one, one night on a walk after dinner in Near Sawrey (we followed your trail and had our best friends getaway ever). Your photo was a lovely reminder of that trip. Can’t wait to read posts as you unfold your stories and memories for all of us to enjoy.
Thank you for loving England as much as I do, Susan Branch! Have you ever read a Betty Neels romance? I started having afternoon tea after reading her wonderful books. You both like walks as well. Someday, I hope to travel as you do. Until then, thank you for the beautiful glimpses. I love your books and share them with my daughters. We get your calendar every year and mark it full of plans. 🙂
Beautiful! I will check out Betty Neels, thank you Gina!
Isn’t Betty Neels wonderful? I’ve read her books for years, and then when I finish all those I can find, I start all over again! She is such a quiet, enjoyable writer 🙂
So good to have you back in the USA, but I know how you loved your time abroad. I’ve been to England twice and the memories are wonderful.
I love to read your blogs and tweets and also all the comments from the Girlfriends.
Thanks for all you create.
Jeanne of Iowa
Loved getting to go on your trip with you! I’ve been lucky 🍀 to travel to the British Isles for real, too. And next year,our daughter and her family will be moving to Belgium 🇧🇪 to live for a year. So, Grandma gets to go visit Europe again. 😜🎒✈️ Love having fun things to look forward to, it’s half the fun. I start my day with checking your twitter feed for happy thoughts from you. They remind me to be grateful and to celebrate all the little things of daily living. Thank you, Susan , for your wonderful example of happy living.
Thank you back Dee Dee!
So glad to have you home on our side of the Atlantic, but I know how hard it was for you and Joe to leave such a unique country. I know you loved every minute.
We most definitely did!
I have enjoyed your journey and pictures. Oh to be young enough to make it to the British Isles in person. I spend a lot of time on Netflix watching all things British. I’m glad you are home safe from your travels. Loved the pictures and comments about the Statue of Liberty.
Arm chair travel is a wonderful thing!
Welcome home Susan and Joe! Thanks so much for sharing your trip with all of us. I found the photos of our beautiful Lady Liberty so moving being of immigrant stock myself from multiple countries and considering the times in which we live. Children separated from parents! Breaking hearts all around…tears down my cheeks….sigh.
Maybe you will see my comment in the many you receive! Please consider this my entry into your upcoming drawing for the BEAUTIFUL cups!! I dream of winning this time:) Hugs to Jack as I live with a similar “character”! Have a wonderful weekend!
One of my favorite things in people, compassion, feeling another’s pain. Makes us all look deeper. It’s a luv-lee quality. Thank you Julie! xoxoxo
Welcome home Susan and Joe. I know Jack is just beside himself with happiness at your return. I loved all your pictures of New York and the lovely Statue of Liberty. It really tugs at my heart to see her there, and know that she is welcoming people still. Looking forward to your book. However long it takes, it will be worth the wait. I received my cup with Jack on it in the books. I think it is my new favorite. I know you are quite busy getting resettled at home, so once again, welcome home.
We felt just that way, a heart tug, home!
Just testing again!
Little gremlins at work here too!
Gill N Devon U.K.
Thank you!!
Dear Sue,
Welcome home and Happy Summer! I made a decision last week. Having been born in England, I now want to go back. I have no memories, just pictures (and your pictures). 🙂 There is a church near me that offers tours and very reasonable prices. I know I will probably not see even half of the countryside you covered but it’s a start. I retire from teaching in 2 years, after 37 years! It is something to celebrate! I’ll keep you posted. 🙂
You will love it Tracy … you’ll feel at home immediately, it’s very surprising that way. xoxo
There are also Rhoades Scholars trips. There is one option of visiting the English countryside (or British countryside). This looks very appealing to me. Check it out.
Ahhh all good again!
Welcome home Both, hope it won’t be too long before you return to our beautiful island!
Waiting in anticipation now for the new book.
Hopefully I WILL get to meet you someday !
Gill N Devon U.K. Xx
I’m sure Gill! Watching London today on the TV! Wow!
Thank you for bringing us all along on your trip. I loved every post. It made me feel like I was tagging along all the way from here in Montana. Welcome Home!
Hello!
Looking forward to your next book! 🙂 Welcome home!!
Kim
Yucca Valley, CA
Oh my goodness! I have been waiting for this post! Such beautiful pictures – and such a sweet welcome home from Jack! Welcome back –
For the last thirty years you have inspired us (husband Glenn and I) to make our “fairy tales come true” We thank you Susan and Joe for sharing your lives and adventures with us. We are so looking forward to the next book!
Welcome Home Susan
What a nice blog of your homecoming. Followed your trip every day and enjoyed it all very much. I probably didn’t want it to end as much as you! As always, thank you for sharing all that you do. You bring a lot of happiness to so many people.
Hello Susan! Welcome home!!!!!!!!! Jack is no doubt your shadow of your every step you take 24/7………so happy your home is now with three of you together! Your Statue of Liberty historical photos gave me chills, as my own grandmother crossed the Atlantic, alone, at age 16 from Czechoslovakia. (From my heart I am thankful she did take that long trip across the ocean to make all of her dreams come true through hard work and endurance, or I would never have been born.) I guess Lady Liberty must have been awesome to see her assembled from over 300 pieces and put together like a puzzle. Susan, you always teach us something new, as I never knew that! Your book writings look good, even from the rough draft! I can’t wait until it is finished, as it will be your new jewel to shine!!!! Enjoy your home, relax, and just be. You’ve been so blessed by safe travels and I am so glad you and Joe are safely back and both in good health! Saying good bye, as I need to order your calendar before leaving to help my daughter Marie pack, as she is moving this weekend. (She is between leases and will be sleeping in my sewing room for 30 days before her new apartment in Ann Arbor, Michigan is ready. Being in your twenties is such a changing decade to live through……I love watching her as she glides through new places, a new job, and new accomplishments on the horizon! My motherhood continues to be enriched seeing my two adult children plug through life!) Take care. God Bless.
WOW. Your grandmother! The individual stories are knock-you-over wonderful and brave and everything we love about being human. Where are you going?
My grandmother came from Czechoslovakia as well. How brave these young ladies were.
In my wildest dreams I could never dream of having that kind of a four month adventure, and no one could have ever imagined that beautiful home coming. Another Fairytale! It takes my breath away! Marian
It happened incrementally, first a little dream, got bigger the next time, and then bigger. It’s getting scary now! But in the very best way!
Your adventures in England and on the Queen Mary have inspired me. We leave next week for our own fairy tale trip on the QE 2 and exploration of England. Thank you for sharing with all of your girlfriends.
How wonderful! Bon Voyage, and smooth sailing for you… hope you get a moonlit night!
This would be so amazing love your mugs
I want to let you know I find you so inspiring! Not only for a wonderful, calm, creative life, but also for adventure and joy of living! I have read and reread your existing books that I own many times and enjoy your blog immensely. Thank you!
Thank you back René! Happy to have you here!
Welcome home, thanks for taking us along. Your photos and comments of lady liberty were so wonderful to read. I was wondering if everyone would break out in song at the amazing sight shared by all. Received my new garden mug – its such a delight! Looking forward to hearing more and more about your adventure.
It was oddly hushed. xoxo
Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. Going across the pond is a dream of mine that chances are pretty good will never happen so I am thrilled to share in your time there.
Oh Susan! You’ve been inspiring me so much! I am a fairly new Susan Branch fan but I have been catching up via the archives! I’m 27 and I’ve found that homemaking is a bit of a lost art but you’ve been inspiring me to be me and enjoy the simple pleasures in life. Thank you for your beautiful posts about this trip that have made me feel like I am right there with you! Welcome Home!
I think we all have it inside ourselves no matter what age, because really, what is better than home ~ the only real place you have total control! Make it all your very own Dani! It will be your joy and haven forever.
Hi Susan Thanks for sharing your wonderful trip with all of us.
Isn’t it so wonderful to be home in your own bed? I am a fellow lover of travel, but there is just something so delicious about peeling back the crisp, soft sheets that first night back home and diving into your own bed! Welcome back!
“Be it ever so humble. There’s no place like home.” Welcome home! Thoroughly enjoyed the trip. Looking forward to the book. Received your Summer book for Mother’s Day. Delightful.
So Glad that you are home, safe and sound. The photos, entering the harbor made me cry. Thank you…it was a good cry.
I love my cups, but it would be so much fun to have a set. Hey, there’s an idea: Sunday, Monday, Tues…..cups??? Each day could fill us with surprises.
Loved your trip and enjoyed your posts. c
I loved every minute of “our trip” and am glad you and Joe are home safe and sound! What a grand return home with the flags waving and hearts happy. You were gone so long which means we have a nice fat book waiting in the wings that I can’t wait to get my hands on! Happy writing, happy painting, and welcome HOME!! XXO
“Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home.” 🏡 Welcome home! The trip was fabulous! Thank you for taking us along. Looking forward to relishing it once more in the book.
What a wonderful “coming home” missive you wrote. Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. And, welcome home! xoxo
Always the best part of any day~ reading your wonderful inspiring blogs! So thankful you are so gracious to share your trips with us. It’s almost like being there!
Welcome Home!
You’ve read it nearly 900 times, Welcome Home! What a wonderful adventure you and Joe have had (having met you both at The King’s English, I feel we are old friends). I can hardly wait for the next book, in the meantime I’m rereading the last three. I gifted the Martha’s Vineyard book and A Fine Romance to a friend for her birthday. She has called several times a week to say how much she loves them!
I have no hopes of being the lucky winner but I have my favorite mug, A Fine Romace, beside me each morning. It was my consolation prize for missing the picnic this spring.
How do you store all of your photos? I have more than I know what to do with but I have a feeling you have ten times as many.
Thank you for the great post!
You mean my old photos from actual film, or the digital ones? My old photos are in books, and otherwise my computer is chock full of them!
I meant the ones on your computer. Just wondering if you put them on thumb drives to free up some space.
I had to put them all on a separate hard drive. NO memory left in my computer for a gazillion photos. So every time I want to access photos, I have to plug in the hard drive.
Thank you for the information! I’ll have to give that a try.
Thank you for sharing your lovely UK trip with us. Your posts warm my heart.
I’ve been to Ireland and to the Cornwall area and hope to go back someday to do a more in depth visit of England and Scotland. In the mean time, I will soak up everything you post about your trip! Welcome home!
As Anne with an E from Green Gables would say, I feel like we are Kindred Spirits. I have thoroughly enjoyed your travels! I’ve been lucky to experience some of the same places, so it was fun to relive the memories. I have also added to my travel bucket list of new places to visit. I feel I am a bit late to the party as it just been within the past year that I’ve discovered your wonderful books. I have had the luxury of taking a sabbatical from “my real” life this summer. My daughter was offered an amazing summer internship in the Boston area and I’ve gotten to tag along for company. Therefore I’ve been able to indulge myself in spending hours on your blog, as well as reading, sewing and just relaxing. Thank you for being a part of my summer self renewal! PS We will be coming over to Martha’s Vineyard in the next couple of weeks. Can’t wait to experience it! My favorite place in the world is Mackinac Island, MI. There is something very special about islands I find.
I couldn’t agree more. And what a wonderful adventure you’ve plotted for yourself! xoxox
I’m so glad you’re home – that means a wonderful new book to add to my collection soon! I can sail the ocean from my favorite reading chair 🙂
Welcome home and thank you for sharing your adventure! I am also enraptured with Britain and truly enjoyed each and every photo. I love the sense of history around every corner and the way it is so much a part of everyday life. I went many, many years ago but now couldn’t leave our 6 dogs and 5 cats!
😊
I’m so excited to add that new book to my collection! I’m looking forward to hearing about your travels!
SO love taking trips with you. Can hardly wait for the next book.
Special request – could you please do a book on how to watercolor?!? I know no one could do it like you!
Welcome Home!!! Thank you for always including us on your adventures!! ❤️
Imagine my joy to see a new post!! I have been checking daily. Looks like you had such a WONDERFUL trip home. What a glorious time. I am going right over to order to my calendars as I MUST have them for 2019. I am looking at my blotter and the bigger wall calendar in my work station right this moment. I get SOOOO many compliments on them! I am planning to re-read all three of the Fairy Tale Girls books soon so hopefully, but the time I am finished we will have the new one coming out soon!!! WELCOME HOME!!
Susan, everything in your posts always looks like Heaven to me – especially your home, which I would duplicate in a second, if I could – it looks just so wonderful to “Be” in. And your gardens. And not forgetting Jack, the cat – I always had cats up until my daughter was born – and then the Fates made her allergic to them, so – no more kitties! I’ve missed that and loved your description of Jack when he saw you coming in from your trip.
I just want to thank you so much for these wonderful visions you give us – both of home and abroad. I would LOVE to take a trip on the Queen Mary OR Elizabeth someday, but if it doesn’t work out, I have yours to dream on!
Thank you for your uplifting and inspiring blogs. They are always one of my favorite things to read. So excited you are writing another book! I savored the last three and read very slowly to prolong the fun. I have to admit that when I got to the last chapter in Falling in Love with the English Countryside, I put the book aside for about a week. I wanted to prolong the ending. I was not ready for it to be over. Your travels sounds wonderful. Thank you for sharing with us. We will be using your book as a travel guide when we go to England. You could have a whole new career as a tour guide.
Eeeeek, how I love to hear that . . . hug book to chest, deep sigh. xoxoxoxo
I have never missed each of your blogs especially love the ones from England as that is my favorite place also. I would love your mugs to put in my kitchen window sill.
such a lovely adventure and I felt like I was there myself as well:-) thank you for sharing
Welcome Home!
Your travels, writing, pictures, and impressions have been so truly wonderful to read. Thank you for so generously sharing your time abroad with all of us. I love what you wrote about the Statue of Liberty, Liberty Enlightening the World, you sound a bit like Lady Liberty, as you enlighten all of us!
I also thank you for some delightful inspiration for first week of school lesson plans in September, and a history lesson for a little fourth grade class!
Enjoy the rest of your summer as you nestle into your special home and life on the Island! Love, love, love to you! xo
I can’t wait to find out all of the adventures you had on your trip that we haven’t heard about yet! Glad you had a safe voyage home! Enjoy being home – it’s the best feeling in the world!
Dear Friend,
Oh, Yes! Oh, Yes! Oh, Yes!!! You have done it again! You made another memory, taught a lesson, dreamed a dream and colored the world with a brush bathed in twinkling stars! Sending joy to the whole universe is what you do so well! Clapping and cheers from the crowd!
The shipboard horizons, hometown patriotism, furry affection and the wish for one lucky winner are all, to quote Kay Thompson’s “Eloise”, “Raw-ther Divine!” But more than all of that (which is pretty magical) once again you put into words how to love and be loved by friends, and nature and history and beauty and all of the flavors and sounds and bits of life that are too often easily missed. With your talent for words and watercolors, you have discovered a way to make strangers into dear friends, a grand adventure into a dream come true and to recognize wonderful it is to return time and time again to what is most important, home. You know how to create one and care for it, tend to it’s garden and place a “welcome” mat on the doorstep. Lucky Joe, lucky Jack, lucky us!
I am so grateful today and lightened and hopeful, all thanks to you. And now a book, a movie and many days and nights of wonder under the moon to look forward to! Bliss. Welcome Home and love to you! Deborah
What a beautiful welcome home that was Deborah . . . in fact, what a beautiful welcome home ALL of you are!!! Lucky me is the true thing!
Oh I so love the Statue of Liberty. Thank you for including such interesting and historical pictures of her here.. Hopefully I will see her up close with my daughter next year during a highly anticipated trip to NYC. And a year or two after that, who knows, perhaps England?
So glad you are home! Can’t wait for the book! I wob you!! ♥️♥️
Wob you back, Lori!
Thank you for sharing your amazing journey. So very glad you are safely home and that Jack is now your constant companion. In reading this, I realize that, from the very outset, with Fairy Tale Girl, you have generously shared your life’s journey with all of us. Again, thank you.
I don’t think it was just my own story I’ve been telling! xoxo Thank you Mary.
So glad you are home! Can’t wait for the book! I wob You! ♥️♥️
Welcome home, Susan and Joe!
What a grand adventure. You & Joe really know how to travel. Having a milestone birthday this Sunday. Turning 60! Treating myself to a day trip to the San Juan Island of Friday Harbor. Going on a whale watching excursion through Deception Pass & get to spend two hours on Friday harbor exploring. Thursday after my birthday. Can’t wait. We get on the clipper ship early in the morning & will return to Seattle in the evening.
Happy Birthday dear Debbie! Have a wonderful day with the Whales, what a perfect way to spend your day!
Welcome home Susan. I also had a great adventure this spring. My husband and I went to Dublin to see The Rolling Stones! It was epic. Here’s to more adventures in the future.
Cheers,
Terri (the Terrible) Major
Welcome home, I loved the pics of the moon shining on the water.
Welcome home Susan, Love the pictures of Lady Liberty! Can’t wait for the new book.
Followed your whole trip and enjoyed reading of ever moment you shared with us. Have made lots of notes about special places to visit for my next travel adventure to Wonderful England. Cannot wait for all the details in your next book. One day when I am old and very gray, people will ask me the secret to my long life and I will say “Susan Branch”!
Thank you for sharing your joy of life with us.
Cynthia
You make me cry. I read your words to Joe, he was touched too. Makes us both feel good, thank you Cynthia.
I love reading your blog first thing in the morning while having a cuppa,it sets the tone for my whole day,today is going to be a lovely day 🙂 Welcome home!!
Can’t wait for the book! So excited. Your trip has made my bucket list much longer😊. Thanks for sharing. Also thanks for all the WONDERFUL giveaways you do!
I’m glad you like them Bambi, it’s just a little way of paying back for all the joy I get from all of YOU!
Loved being in your back pocket on this wonderful adventure. I’m hoping to get my first passport stamps someday…in the mean time. I’ll live through your experiences.
Welcome home, Susan. I have followed you every time you’ve posted updates on your trip. I think I literally soaked all your experiences into my soul! But, now that ‘we’re’ home…I think I need a 4-5 day rest. You know how we all need a rest from our trips and vacations!
Thank you for taking me along on your trip. It was fabulous!
Once Again, Thank You for our wonderful sweet trip. May you both enjoy the rest of Summer in Home sweet Home , with Kisses and Hugs for kitty, Jack. Your artistic talents are a joy to behold, Blessings, Brook
Welcome home. I loved following your trip and can’t wait for your new book! I am so excited!!! After reading your first book, which inspired my girlfriend and I to return to England in 2015, we rented a car and drove all over the Country for 3 1/2 weeks. Wished we could have been away longer, but responsibilities of real life are always waiting. Loved all your pictures and stories, as you traveled on both of your trips on the Queen Mary. My husband and I are hoping to go with dear friends in 2020. Keep sharing your Positive Sweet World with all of us, we need it now more than ever!!! XOXOXO
Welcome back! Really enjoy your writing, and I look forward to a future book about this trip. Jack looks very pleased to have you home, as cats do. I’ll be going shortly to pick up my 14 year old maine coon, Chicolate Mousse, from the vet, after an overnight stay after surgery. I know she’ll be as pleased as your Jack to be back with her people.
Welcome home, Susan! Thank you for sharing so much of your wonderful travels! Best wishes to you, Joe, & Jack!
Oh Susan, you are awesome! Thanks so much for taking us along on your amazing trip and showing us all the amazing sights. Can’t wait to read your book–I have all the others and I love them! You are my heroine!
Welcome Home!
Love your commentary about coming home from England. Lovely photos of the Statue of Liberty.
Welcome home Susan and Joe! What a wonderful home coming…I have chill bumps 🙂 I have to make it to Martha’s Vineyard one day soon to see your town for myself. I was overjoyed to see the pictures of your sweet Jack…his happiness over-flow-ith at the sight of his mom and dad. So adorable…and I must say, I am thrilled with my Jack in the books mug! Reading your blog always makes my days brighter…thank you! Much love xoxoxoxo
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for sharing your precious gifts with the world. You make it a kinder, gentler, and more beautiful place. It seems foolish to tell a complete stranger that I love them……….But I DO love YOU!❤️
Well, the truth is I love you right back, so all is well in the world of us kindred spirits!
What a wonderful trip you had. I bet it was the shortest four months of your life! And the longest of Jack’s! What a loving family member he is for you, because he’s certainly more than a cat. Looking forward to the new book for more tantalizing details!
Welcome Home Susan! I can’t wait to buy your next book, and do some armchair traveling with you! I have an English pen friend who I met at Buckle Yeat in Far Sawrey years ago-she sends me the loveliest post cards of her travels through the British Isles!
Karen
Susan,
Thank you for taking me along on your journey through Ireland, England and Scotland. It was fun following you and Joe through your posts. I’m looking forward to the book. It will be like traveling with you all over again!
Brenda
Hi Susan! Welcome home!! I SO enjoyed following your wonderful trip! I had a total knee replacement the beginning of June so even though I was layed up I still was able to vacation with YOU! I am SO looking forward to seeing your new book. It’s hard to wait. Enjoy being home! Give Jack and Joe a squinch from me and take one for yourself. Much love, Kerrie
So Good to have you and Joe back home. it was amazing traveling with you again! I now have a ‘rescued’ long haired tuxedo cat, ‘Molly’ and when I go out for the day, she is delirious with joy when I get back home. I can imagine what Jack is like! ‘Mommie is HOME!’ now is the time to unpack, settle in, relax, traveling again through your notes. And now we have the recap of the trip in book form to look forward to. Treasured memories!
Susan,
It was such a joy to open up your blog this morning and truly get taken away from flower watering, sprinkler setting and breakfast making to enjoy all your pictures and fabulous words. I truly enjoy your blog and look forward to all that you share. I loved the pictures of your entering NY harbor and seeing the history pictures of the Statue of Liberty. I had never seen those before, thank you. Happy to hear your adventure was fantastic and your joy of coming home.
Tears running down my face! The picture of the Statue of Liberty did it. Thanks so much for this beautiful post.
Loved following you on your wonderful trip. Can’t wait to see the book! Welcome Home!
Welcome home! And thanks for our great adventure. Hugs
Welcome home Susan and Joe! Thank you so much for sharing your trip. I had a truly wonderful time and saw so much. Looking forward to a new book.
Loved the pictures of Jack on your return. Such a love! I was a tad bit worried about him, but all is well. Relax and enjoy being home with your garden, kitty and friends.
Bunny Blessings,
Laurie
Your trip looks so fabulous! Thanks for taking us along. I can hardly wait for the new book to be published to add to all your other wonderful books! You are the BEST GIRLFRIEND!
Hi Susan,
So happy you are home. Don’t you just love kitty feet? I have a 25 pound yellow kitty, so you know big feet.
Oh boy a whole set of cups, great giveaway and I promise to take care of them should you pick my name.
Nancy Jo
LOVE THEM!!!!
What a wonderful blog you’ve written today. The photos of the moon were fantastic, and seeing the Statue of Liberty brought a tear to my eye. Loved all the flags and patriotism for the 4th of July and even though I’m Canadian and Canada Day was July 1st, it made me feel so lucky to live in North America.
I think the Statue of Liberty has very much meaning for most countries in the world . . . especially since Americans are from everywhere, but also, because there is so much HOPE embodied in this Lady with the Lamp.
Welcome home! Can’t wait for the book! Loved the photos of my home town, NY and Brooklyn. Lady Liberty and our bridges–beautiful photos.
And so excited–I just saw that the Downton Abbey movie with original cast is a go. Saw it on BBC online, among other places. What a gift to all of us.
I also noticed in one of your photos that you are reading a book about the Mitford sisters. Funny coincidence that I am too, right now, but a different one. There have been lots…what a curious crew.
Welcome Home Susan! Thanks for your wonderful posts and sharing your adventure with all of us!
Thank you SO much for letting us travel vicariously through you and Joe. It was wonderful as usual. Loved getting to see Martha’s Vineyard (and your home!) last fall and love my 4th of July mug – it is one of my favorites! It’s great to have your next book to look forward to!
I love reading about all your adventures! The photos are so great, I wish I was there. Thanks for the trip.
What a wonderful giveaway! Enjoyed your trip!
I love your Martha’s Vineyard in the Summer blogs. I thought about posting a long comment here, but really what I want to ask is, “Will Joe plan my Nova Scotia trip for me, please?”
Ha ha ha!
Thanks for taking me along on such a great trip. I’m glad I fit in the suitcase! I missed having your postings to brighten my days!
Welcome Home!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for allowing me/us to travel with you & Joe. It’s been a trip of lifetime and I never left my desk!
Because of you two, I’m dreaming of a British road trip with a “crossing” of the Atlantic, into majestic NYC. Your words & pics of “Lady Liberty” filled me with pride and more longing for a crossing!
I briefly lived in Massachusetts (my husband born & raised and still has family home in MASS) and feel it’s my second home; which is pretty interesting coming from this California bred gal. Your pictures of your return trip made me long for the New England summers, as well as The Cape.
Again, thank you.
I would love to win a set of cups to celebrate the seasons.
Welcome Home
Talk about tears to eyes!!! Tears streaming down my face as I read about Ms Liberty and wonderful description and pictures of coming home. Made my heart swell with pride and a desperate prayer for our country. Anyway…wonderful to read. Also I see the book there Six Sisters. Mixed reviews on those books. You enjoying? But must stop reading and get writing! Ha. Carry on.
Julie Child (not of Julia Child fame you may remember)
Sacramento
I love it, Julie. Learning so much. The girls are fascinating, if not more than a little bit crazy, but they are of their times and between them we get a total look at the social and political climate of the 1930s. Which is SOOO interesting!
Sooo enjoyed your trip and all the wonderful photos and commentary. England is a beautiful land. And what a perfect arrival home with the Statue of Liberty in the early morning light. Perfect. Thank you for sharing!
I’m so happy you and Joe are back❤️‼️