Rabbit Rabbit, almost May, welcome to this episode of “Real Life.” Don’t let the title scare you!! Let the MUSICA do it!😢
The question posed to me over and over again this April: Responsibility. What is it and why do we have it? I think if you 
have children, the minute they are born, responsibility kicks in for a lifetime. I don’t know, because I don’t have children and so that ultimate responsibility was never mine. Looking back, I think for the most part I got to pick and choose my responsibilities😸, they didn’t land on me like care of children must inevitably do. Children help you notice the years are going by. I forgot to do that. But sooner or 
later, life tells you you better take responsibility or you’ll be in trouble. Warning lights show up whether we like it or not. That’s when life decisions can no longer be ignored, you find yourself adding up numbers, weighing pros and cons, living in denial as much as possible, suddenly seeing your surroundings in a way you never noticed before, writing a will🤪, and PLANNING for something you have no idea what it is, or when, or how, or even why, because 
you’re secretly only 23, and very busy, and you don’t DO responsibility. But for some unfathomable reason, to fit into rules not of my making, we’re being forced into it. I would prefer to do TODAY, exactly what I did YESTERDAY, forever. Operative word is forever. Where is my dad when I need him, he had all the answers! So ’round and ’round we go, listing pros and cons, meditating on it, clarifying options, and getting a handle on consequences (guessing, because who knows), debating with myself, debating with Joe, seeing truth but fighting the impulse to lie to myself (I know, that always works🙄), crying while out on our walk ~ and then, back home, my eyes fall on the little stove on top of my big stove, something with zero PRACTICAL value besides cuteness, and I think well, if we have to go, I’m taking that.🤜🤛
Still hard to say … But in a nutshell, Joe and I have decided for our old age, it’s best we 
move to our house in California and sell our house on the island. So many reasons, but number one is the one most of us have to wrestle with, our financial situation … this big old house requires constant maintenance, and if we sell it we will have enough money to ensure our security in the future. All the back and forth, all the worry comes down to that. Now that we’ve finally accepted it, we’re trying to take it one day at a time. We’re in good health, and once it’s all done, if we live through it, we’ll see where we are and what our future holds. I’m sad, but excited too. Change like this brings both losses and gains. Living in this big old house has been the BEST thirty-five years! A dream come true, a miracle. And when we go? We take our memories and go to MORE Beauty!!! Don’t be sad for us, it’s life, the beautiful, wonderful, mystery of right thing at right time. I guess we always knew this day would come. We’ve decided to love each other through it.💞 I’m drinking tea from my Blessed cup this morning.💖
I think back on the years I’ve been writing Willards (LOOK on the right of this page, scroll down to ARCHIVES!) … put all that writing together and it’s a diary! The longest memoir in the history of womankind! You’ve been with me through it all, and often going through just exactly the same thing at the same time! And now, this. I know we aren’t alone. You know I’ve been homesick all my 
life … when I’m in California, I want to be on the Island… when I’m on the Island, I miss California. So actually, nothing changes, the homesickness continues.💝 As my mom would say, “so spoiled.” It’s all those fairy tale books I read, not my fault.
Just like everyone else, we didn’t know how to do this. And just like everyone else, we’ve had to make it up, CREATE it. We needed all the help we could get, so I Googled, “Biggest mistakes made when retiring” (in 
so many words, even if you’re NOT retiring!). “Get ready,” they all said, “you will be old someday, get yourself organized.” Heard it for years, didn’t do it. But hearing it so often, you have to (⬅️😱) believe it. We had to figure out what is going to be best for us in the long run. There are helpful studies online that result from questioning people who’ve been through it. Safety 
was big. Which means, no narrow, steep, ship-like stairs like these built in 1849 by a whaling captain. One-floor living is a requirement. Climate is also important, tying in to safety: Snow is heavy, ice is slippery, don’t get near it. Healthcare and senior services: You should not have to get on a ferry to get that because what happens if the ferries don’t run? Money: cut expenses so you don’t accidentally run out. This was the big one (and the tipping point) for us: no giant old “money-pit” houses (as our accountant referred to our house) that require constant care, where heating costs as much as a house payment, and chores require getting on ladders. And the number one biggest mistake people make, they say, is waiting too long. Grrrr.😲
“So far life had just happened to me. I had to figure out a way to happen to it.” 💖 me
I wrote those words in my memoir “Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams.” I have never liked it when life happened to me, I have always wanted to feel as if I’m making a choice, and if it’s wrong, then I only have me to blame. And although our financial 
situation limits your average zillionaire’s full-range of choices, I can still choose some things. For instance, I can choose how I’m going to look at this. I could either up my anxiety medicine, or choose joy. I choose joy. I choose the Pollyanna Glad Game that’s gotten me through life since I was 8 years old. I choose to find the good, go forward positively and follow my dreams, we are NOT going to be destitute. And I’m not done yet, but that doesn’t matter, they say, you must prepare yourself. So I walk around with all this in my head, and there, all spread out on the kitchen table where Joe has left it for me, is the newspaper.
And look what it says! The unstoppables! All in their 80s and 90s, lucky to have good health, and they still work because they love it. I imagine they are all have lots of help around them, they probably have children and grandchildren, money is likely not a problem ~ and definitely they don’t have to climb whaling-captain 
ship-stairs to get to their bedrooms, but look at them! Totally inspiring. They may have had to change lifestyle a bit, but that didn’t mean everything was OVER. It didn’t stop them. And I don’t think it’s because of their ambition as this article says, I think it’s LOVE. Love of life, love of what they do, love of the people they’ve come to relate to and care for through their work. Do people ever tire of spreading love? I don’t think so. Nothing is EVER perfect, but these people, and so many like them, happen to life and don’t let life happen to them until they absolutely MUST. I want to be just like them when I grow up!💖
Yes, it’s hard; overthinking is the thief of confidence ~ but in my studio I found these cards ~ keepers, all together on a shelf. I put them on the fridge to share with Joe. The first one was painted by Kate Taylor, sister of James, a WONDERFUL singer and artist and person, and our friend. Her card says it all.’Course we can!💝
And this postcard about sharing experiences with your bestie…
And this card, so perfect for us, given to me by Joe for our anniversary . . .
And his sweetest words that brings us right back to
You Me, We Can Do This.
Reminding us our whole life has been an adventure, why not now?
There are two ways to look at it. As either our greatest loss ever, and or as another fantastic gift of life adventure. I 
question it constantly, cry sometimes, but then I read the birthday card Mother Seraphima and the sisters sent me that says, “Life isn’t about what you hold in your hands. It’s about what you hold in your heart.” And my heart keeps hold of it all. So, I think, year-’round gardening can NOT be a bad thing. Roses! The sale of Spring Street will enable us to pay off our debts. I hate debt. It makes me feel like I weigh 300 pounds. I will LOVE living near Kellee, Sheri, and Judy again, I feel empowered in our meetings so filled with inspiration. We do better when we’re together. I will love waking up to the gurgling 
water fountain outside our bedroom window, and looking out my kitchen window, past the bird feeders in the mimosa tree, at the long green farmland ~ all that glorious nature. I will love Trader Joe’s. I will love living a simpler life, will love wine with Diana next to the water, love painting at the same art table where I wrote my Autumn Book, with a view of our picket fence garden, will love a large garden project. But the things I will miss are uncountable, the history, the years, but number one, I can barely write this, are our wonderful friends. But we know we’re coming back, for as long as we are able … we’re just not coming in summer,
when the humidity melts me into a puddle. And not in the long months of winter, which, despite its many charms, can trap us inside like a perpetual pandemic. We’ll come in the spring to see the weeping cherry trees in bloom, the magnolias, and the dogwoods, for the tulips and daffodils ~ and in the fall, for the smell of autumn, for the leaves flying in the wind, for the colors, and the sweaters. And I imagine it will be more magical than EVER. All part of the adventure. All part of the gratitude, the pure gift I’ve been given in this life. I refuse to be sad, when happy is so easy. I have always loved the flow of life, and that hasn’t changed. I will say the thing I say every day, thank you God.💖
So we are packing up to move! And allowing ourselves to be excited! Because it’s exciting! I walk by the dining table where I am gathering things to take, and hear tiny, squeaky, excited mousie voices all talking at once, “why are we here, what are we doing, where are we going . . .?” The “children” are excited … Petey too! He’ll be in the old Fine Romance Van (ie garden truck), along with us, and Jack, when we drive them across country to their new home. Luckily everyone is up for the adventure! And we’ll bring you along! I’ll have to Instagram the trip! I think Jack will love being the center of attention 24-7. And I will love having him with us.😻
Downsizing! We’ll have less than half the square footage in California! Which I will love. I already feel liberated! I’m taking all our very favorite things and just LEAVING the rest of it, walking away, for an estate sale. From six sets of dishes, I narrowed it down to two! Proud of me? And everything is going to go with green. Because guess what? I get to REDECORATE! There is good in everything. You’ll see! I can’t wait to show you! Don’t cry for me Argentina. I am going to eight long green acres in the quiet sunshine where gardenias and artichokes grow.
So upward and onward: Life goes on.💝 This will cheer you up! MAS MUSICA! (The kind of MUSICA my house has always loved.💞 I tried to bypass it, but they seem determined to throw commercials in, hit “skip!” It’s worth it!!💝) I’ve always loved dolls, my mom did, and so do I. But she never let herself collect them, and me either because I just can’t bring myself to have a room full of dolls, I love them too much, they would overwhelm me (Joe would kill me), I have no doubt! I go to doll stores, alone, whenever I see one, very dangerous. Even bought one for my mom. But, I’m just too boringly practical. Almost always.
So the other day, on our way to our walk, there were signs along the road pointing to an estate sale … it was a beautiful, sunny blue-sky day so we decided to go. Because when you’re moving and trying to downsize, the first thing you think of is “Let’s go get more stuff!” (And I call myself practical🙄) But LOOK at her. ⬇️ I can’t help it, I BELIEVE her to be beautiful!💝 Wm. Morris would HAVE to approve . . .😊
She’s tiny. She has a hand-painted face, and hand-painted shoes and socks. Her underclothes were clean, but her dress was very dirty and I did my best to clean it, soaked it with lukewarm water and a drop of bleach . . .
One of the sleeves had come apart so I sewed it back together.
She read some of my books while she waited for her dress to air dry. I found her chair at the estate sale, too! And I know exactly where she will go in the house in California! She will be driven in the van with me and Joe and Jack and Petey.💝 My other dolls.
XXX
And here she is … I had to show you her dancing legs . . .
What else? So much ~ Kellee is getting new things into the Studio every day. I can’t keep up!
All my paint boxes have to be packed up and I have a jillion of them. I don’t know why. I keep thinking there might be a color out there I haven’t seen yet. Taking no chances. And they DO make better colors all the time . . . Look at these I just got:
Aren’t they gorgeous? In cork! I’ve never seen that before. The colors are so rich and vibrant and they flow beautifully from brush to paper! I’ve already started using them . . .
XXX
Even the BROWN is gorgeous! I got them for you too! I also found ⬇️ the sweetest little pad of textured 100% cotton watercolor paper with a vegan leather cover.💖
I’ve always wanted to offer a little set of wonderful watercolors ~ just hadn’t found the perfect ones yet. I still haven’t been able to get brushes, sorry … but my two favorite paintbrushes 
are Windsor Newton #1 and #4 ~ you can find them at Blick … everyone should give it a try! Look what happened to me! Total accident, but fun for a lifetime! Don’t think you have to be perfect, there is no such thing. Original, no matter WHAT, is best. 💖 Do it your way! And there are so many wonderful teachers out there! Sign up for something! Think of all the nice people you’ll meet! Watercolors are like music, some very ethereal and light, some very dark and opaque, shivering high notes and intense low notes, lighthearted joy and depths of heartbreak, spring and fall, the fast and the slow, some spreads forever, some is short and stops abruptly… do it to your own song and you’ll be doing it right.🧡 Maybe, just maybe, when we get to California, I will learn how to video myself and try to give an art lesson! That would be interesting. I barely know how I do it myself! 💖
My collection of heroes is heading west too . . . I’ve been collecting these die-cut hero-cards to inspire me in my studio since George Washington arrived as a wedding invitation way back in the 80s. Slowly over the years, in bookstores and other assorted places, I found the others, from Mark Twain, to Jane Austen, and all the others. Everyone asks me about them … And Kellee found them for our webstore!
“Susan’s Picks” this week are all about Mother’s Day . . . including this greeting card I made for all the nurturer’s in your life. We also have the guided books I made for moms and grandmas to tell their stories and record their memories. Every day is Mother’s Day in so many of our hearts.💝 Speaking of which, for the Mom’s in your life:
Something new! We have a Girlfriend who makes these wonderful gold filled necklaces for us, perfect alone or for layering ~ so dainty, this one we call Counting my Blessings . . .
I am a heart girl so when I saw this one, I had to have it, and needed them for you too! So here we go! You can see the gold heart necklace HERE. (The little flower necklace you see with it is coming soon!) I hope you love it! They all come on these little cards and in a clear envelope and look really good together!
I’ve had a chain like this for a long time and love how the light picks up the little extra detail of the beads … so when I saw these I was thrilled I could offer them to you. They come in either gold OR silver ~ I wear it on its own, or add a pendant ~ it’s like a jewelry-box staple. You can see it on Kellee HERE.
Lots of new cards … these have simple summer drink recipes, reminding us to celebrate EVERY wonderful moment.☀️
And these wonderful Alphabet Stitch Kits finally came back in ~ with everything you need, including instructions, needle, and embroidery floss. Make something you can pass down to your family. This one is mine, but that space there at the bottom is for you to embroider your own name and the date…💝
But honestly, despite packing and worrying, and now instead of worrying, meditating and remembering, despite all that, I look outside and see this and go get my phone!!! Who wouldn’t!?
forsythia, magnolia trees, and garden mulch . . . part of the flash dance of spring . . .🌸 Yes we’re going, but the garden says, Hey, don’t forget me . . . and we never will.🪴🪴🪴
Went out to dinner with friends and this was the view on the other side of the window . . .👀
Driving home under a full moon . . . I’ve had forty-two years of Martha’s Vineyard full moons.😱 At LEAST 504 of them, not counting the Blue Moons! Brought here, I don’t know how . . . How lucky can you get!!!? And I hear there are full moons in California too!💃🏼
Our morning walk has been a pure gift … red bucket and flip flops on the beach this beautiful morning and no one else around! Inspires Morning Science!
And the sunsets . . . 
and new blooms . . . forty-two years of the surprise of Spring . . . I have loved this house to its very soul, and it has loved me back to mine. A part of me is embedded here forever and I could not be happier about it. The world turns, spring passes, summer comes, all is as it should be.💝
Here we go! Off to the next adventure! Good bye April . . .💝
Hello May 🌸
Plant up a storm Girlfriends, all the flowers of all the tomorrows are in the seeds of today!🪴 All Love, all joy, all hope, all truth, all courage, to all of you, all the time.💞
💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
Dear Susan and Joe,
Best wishes and much love to pack up in your happy trunk to California!💕 What a smart decision, although heart rending I’m sure, to give up the joyous memories of Martha’s Vineyard. But the future of sunshine and a secure home to make new memories is a wise move and a new way to inspire all of us how to age with joy!!
Oh my goodness, what a surprise! Best of luck to you and Joe! I definitely understand the stair situation. Last time I was on the Vineyard I rented an apartment in the oldest house in Vineyard Haven (across the street from the ferry) and the staircase was brutally steep. I certainly would not want to use that daily. It won’t be the same next time I go knowing you’re not there. Hope your move goes smoothly. Much Aloha, Mary❤️🌷🥰🪻💐
Just last summer we sold our beautiful, HUGE, quintessential Northern Wisconsin lakeside home with 180 degree lake views. The maintenance, the steep driveway in the winter, the lack of healthcare and services options all were getting to be too much. The house sold in 45 minutes. We only took half of our belongings. We bought a brand new house with cash (no debt!) and are close to family, old friends and health care options galore. My heart was aching when I read this Willard. Being proactive is far superior than reactive. It was a good, but heartbreaking move for us. It will be a good move for you both, too. Listen to the little voices of the items that wish to come along on this new adventure. They share your fairytale memories. Xox Jerilynn
Yes! Fairytale memories!💖
How fun to go back to the California sunshine – & such a beautiful area you will be in!❤️ YES to doing some watercolor lessons, too – wouldn’t it be fun to have all your Girlfriends painting along with you? New adventures sounds fabulous- am excited for you guys! Can’t wait to hear about it all🥰
Oh my, Dear Susan…..what a plethora of emotion in this Willard!
I am not surprised at your decision. In reading your California posts I could “feel” for you that, that was “home”. Not that the Vineyard wasn’t, but as you said in various ways you were the caretakers of that lovely home and someday someone else would have the task. Now that will be reality. Changes of this magnitude are so difficult. I experienced a similar decision about 10 years ago when I sold my beautiful lake home. (I had been widowed at 53 and lived there approx 8 years alone). It also was expensive and huge to maintain. One day in the spring after much anguish I just made up my mind and called the realtor. It was also hectic, and, I too, had many dishes, etc. BUT, after all was said and done, life developed into a new flow and now all of that is my history. I am excited for you and Joe and to see the new creativity expressed with a new location. Interesting how the chapters of life evolve. I have to say, after purging those many years ago, another purge is necessary. My personal commitment to not collect more things has gone a little awry so I have some work to do. What you said about preparing for our older years is so true. Thank you, again, for such a beautiful and personal expression of your experience. Love and best wishes to you and Joe in the process ahead!❤️
I will surely miss your big old house, but certainly understand the reasons behind the move. Looking forward to following your adventures in CA!
Congratulations on starting this exciting new chapter! I have a feeling it’s going to be your best one yet, full of new experiences that you can add to the heaps and heaps of beautiful memories you’ve already created.
Thank you for sharing your life with us in your books, art, and these wonderful Willards. Your trust and honesty are appreciated and cherished more than you know.
May we be brave!
You are going together, so you are taking your home with you💗.
And lucky you, you have two homes!
Two homes full of love and memories!
And financial means.
Lucky, lucky, lucky!
Blessed, blessed, blessed.
Your focus will shift…and you will look forward and not back.
The journey continues ….🌅
I am so happy for you two! There is so much peace in just deciding on a path forward. Welcome back!
I knew this was coming. 😊 After living in beautiful but cold…humid…did I mention beautiful 😍 Wisconsin and seeing your sunny pictures from California I , too, miss warm sunny days in Colorado. I understand. I’m 75 as well and aging is a great motivator. Best of luck to you and Joe. We can visit your home again and again through your books! 🏡🫖🥳
Your post brought tears to my eyes and a smile to my face because I went through something similar. Five years ago when I was 65 I sold the house I grew up in and moved about 45 minutes away. First move of my life! At the closing, my first thought was “what in the world have I done”? But that feeling faded and as soon as I started to move my things into my new home, I wanted to do cartwheels; I was so happy. That feeling has never faded, but has only increased. You might be scared and anxious at the beginning, but this is the right move. As soon as you, Joe and Jack step through the door you will know you are home. Much happiness and health Susan.
This is what I love!!! I think maybe it will be that way for us too!❌⭕️
Oh Susan! My heart is so full. I wish you the best. Leaving a place is so hard. I feel the tug between my home in Pennsylvania and the home I had in Colorado.
Blessings to you and Joe in this new wonderful phase of life!
Rachel
Gosh, that had to be a tough decision, but totally understand it and wish you the very, very best! When my girlfriend and I make our first trip to Martha’s Vineyard in October, I’m sure you won’t be there, but I will think of you and everything we will look forward to just from your blogs. We cannot wait to see the island for the first time! Thank you! God bless! ♥
Susan, thank you for another lovely Willard. I certainly understand the home sickness that you will feel and that you have felt. But I am so happy you are keeping the house in California. It’s a good thing I don’t have lots of money or I would’ve bought it a few months ago! Have a happy and a fun trip and enjoy the sunshine!
Put on your courage bead and get to work. Another season…. Rich territory…. Gold star!
Oh Susan! What an exciting adventure! My husband and I did something similar almost exactly a year ago. We grew up in the same town, found each other and married young (18 and 19) and then had a family. We raised our three kids in that same town (Lompoc, I’m sure you know it, just 40 minutes south of Arroyo Grande). We built careers in that town. In 2022, our kids are all full fledged adults with kids of their own, and no one lived near us. We retired and decided to move to Oregon, where two of the three kids live with four of our six grandkids. We bought a house much smaller than the one we left in California, scaled way down. It was harder for my husband to leave California than it was for me. He doesn’t like change, but he knew how much I wanted (needed) to be near our family, so this move (as hard as it was logistically and physically) was his gift to me. I wish you and Joe much happiness in California (I know you’ll be happy!) and know you will miss magical Martha’s Vineyard. But you are making a very adult, responsible decision!
Dear Susan,
Thank you for sharing your news full of raw joy, trepidation and anticipation.
Two years ago, my husband and I (mid seventies, no children) sold our beloved 80 acre maple and blueberry farm and downsized to a tiny cottage in a small town.
I was prepared for the sadness…but the joy of a new adventure was completely unexpected. I felt like a kid again. Much love and joy to you, Joe and Jack, as you embark on your new adventure.
Linda Z.
WOW! That must have been a tough decision. All I can say is I’m sure it will be a great adventure. As you said, there are so many things you love on the island. That great house you have lived in for so long, the beauty of the place, but most of all, all those great friends. I find that as I have gotten older, it is harder for me, anyway, to make changes. I think we feel safer in familiar places. But you are from California, lived there for a long time and have great friends there. And best all, you are not going alone. You will have Joe and Jack and all those great memories. Best wishes to you, Joe and little Jack on your great new adventure. Best of all, we know we will continue to read your ‘Willards.’
Wow…what an amazing Willard. I felt I was immersed in a wonderful movie, feeling every emotion as the story unfolded. As the daughter of a Naval officer, we moved every four or five years, leaving behind friends and all that we had grown to know and love. My Dad always said…”once you hang up the pictures, this is home”. He was right…there were always new friends to be made and new adventures to be had. May your move go smoothly, your house sell quickly, and may your new adventures be shared with us all!
Wow, surprise but I have to say when you were there and planning to sell and leave there I thought I would choose to live there in retirement. You know we are almost birthday twins. Its good to think about what to do when your aging. Its inevitable and so many never think of that. Good for you and Joe! You will miss your friends on island but they will come see you and you will go back for visits. Yipee for this adventure! Happiness comes from eith in and you and Joe have that. Plus you will share it with us along the way!
Congratulations!
Tickled for you and Joe, change is hard but possible!
Love lives where ever you are! ♥️
My husband and I had our anniversary trip (given by our son) last week on Martha’s Vineyard. He reserved a cottage for us at the Harbor View Hotel, a trip in a lifetime for us. We took photos of the full moon from the front entrance of the hotel. We explored the island and as a follower of your blog for many years, I wanted to see your home. We found your home, parked across the street and I took pictures of the front and the back. I told my husband that I had “been in every room” in your house (well almost). The next day we drove back there for one more peek and due to construction the road was closed, so I’m grateful that we could take pictures the day before. Your blog posts have enriched my life by the many stories, recipes, quotes and photos that you have shared. You have taken me to many places that I could never visit. I have almost all of your books and I reread them and go back through your blog archives on “down” days for inspiration and stress relief. Thank you, Susan, for so many years of pleasure. I wish you, Joe and Jack much happiness in your move to California. I know you will be providing us with more wonderful blogs along the way on your trip and once you are settled. Blessings~
Happy Anniversary Ann! 💖💖💖💖💖 And thank you for the kind words.💋
Drinking coffee from my Blessed mug this morning with tears running down my cheek. As a Baystater I fully understand. I have a California magnet too. I love Ojai♥️ but for now I am here climbing stairs in my 82nd year. Very happy that you and Joe made this decision. I commented on your post on Instagram that you would and I believe you have. Bless you and Joe, Jack and Petey. Excited to go on that cross country trip with you♥️
Dear Susan,
We lose you to the west coast, but I guess in many ways it will be a homecoming for you as you will be close to family and childhood memories. And, yes, your property out in CA is stunning. We used to live in MA and every time we went to the Vineyard, I hoped for a Susan sighting! I did have the opportunity to meet you once in 2002 at Colorful Creations in Hyannis. My life-long BFF and I were beyond thrilled! I look at that photo, dear lady and you truly haven’t changed over the years. How did you manage that?!
I had to move some years ago as retirement and the reality of our financial situation merged. We left the home I had inherited from my parents, the home that was most constant in our lives and held the memories of not only my parents, but my sweet, boy whom we lost just six months after my father’s death.
We celebrated Christmas there for years and my adult children were happy to make the trek to visit us there, but alas, it was a big house, expensive to heat (though certainly nothing like you describe!) and it needed costly repairs, neglected in my parents’ senior years. We weren’t up to maintaining the property. So we packed up all that made that house a home and moved to a smaller though not small, more affordable home. It felt like a death and I grieved the loss of that house, and that community though I do drive back for periodic visits. But for years, I couldn’t drive past the house without tears spilling down my cheeks.
The truth of the matter is that there are few in this world who would feel sorry for me! We do have a nice house that does work well for us and if kids are able to make the trip, well, there is room!
Wishing you both peace with your decision. You can now look forward to a new chapter. Life is an adventure!
Oh, Susan…my heart stopped for a moment, I can barely breathe. I feel like I know every nook & cranny of your house, at least the parts that you’ve shared with us. I am rapidly approaching 70 years of age & I am faced with the heartbreaking decision to sell my beloved home. I’ve only lived in 3 homes in my life (my childhood home & the home I grew up in & was blessed to remain in after my parents passed away) but this one was solely mine. It greeted me like a warm hug whenever I returned from travels or daily outings. It’s filled with not only my treasures but treasures (to me) from everyone in my life who have passed on. The thought of parting with anything induces panic. Yet, l know what I must do & I believe that that 300 hundred pound weight (500 hundred pounds to me…lol) will be lifted once it’s done. I’m still mired in sadness but I do see glimmers of the peace it will bring once I’m finished. I’ve had many role models in my life, many heroes, but you have been my north star for so many years. I am in awe of you. I wish for you everything you could possibly dream of for yourself. Walking this journey with you is making my steps feel lighter. God bless you, Joe, Jack & the extremely fortunate people who will one day call your home theirs. xo
Susan! Congratulations! You and Joe made the best (and logical) decision. “Numbers don’t lie,” as my CFO friend Evelyn says. Glad you did research on the realities of retirement. Happy for you and your new adventure!
I’m happy and sad right now! It will be an exciting adventure for sure and I look forward to your journey across the country! Maybe you could do a book about the Spring Street house for us? I’d love it!
Wob you!!
Lori M
Dear Susan,
Thank you for sharing this.
Two years ago, my husband and I (mid-seventies, no children) sold our beloved 80 acre maple and blueberry farm and downsized to a tiny cottage in a small town. The sadness I was prepared for, but the joy of a new adventure was totally unexpected. I felt like a kid again.
Great love and joy to you, Joe and Jack as you begin your new adventure!
Linda Z.
Hi Susan,
of course I cried…even though you explicitly said not to! I think for those of us who love you, we picture you in that house. It always added to the romance,grit,stick-to-a-tive-ness of life. We couldn’t live in the beautiful Martha’s Vinyard, with the painted ladies and ferry boats and clanging church bells, but you could, so we kinda did too!!! HOWEVER, many of us are in the same boat now, it bobs and lurches and glides a little closer to the sunset than before. Even though we’ve only lived in our Mountain house for 3 years and we love it dearly, just this month we made a decision to plan to move and Downsize in 9 years. We saw an informative video which echoed your words…Don’t wait too long. 74 seemed to be the ” sweet spot” for this new chapter ,if good health should prevail, God willing. It’s so wonderful how the mind begins to guide and create ideas as soon as you make the decision. You begin to imagine yourself in your new surroundings..start to think of the joys and advantages..begin to list in your mind the things that will no longer be a worry or a burden…snow, ice,storm windows, gutters,stairs,cold,drafts,humidity,etc….
All this to say, once again your leading the charge and giving many of us courage to look at life in the eyes and get our ducks in a row as they say.
It won’t be all rosy. Always pain involved in growth to an extent. Missing people with all your heart. Now, I will imagine you strolling , early morning in your old/new garden. Walking the property to the creek, and all the creative fireworks that will take place , now that your team is all together in one place!
Godspeed to you, Joe and Jack
Hugs from the NC mountains
Kim
All wisdom. From all of you. So much gratitude … to you from me.❌⭕️❌⭕️
I think Joe just wants to get back on that tractor in California! Whatever you do, don’t listen to the Beatles’ song “In my Life”. When I told my husband you were leaving MV he was upset! We spent a week in 2012 on the Vineyard just around the corner from you and we loved it so much! We’re both sad. He then proceeded to play “In my Life” because he’d just listened to it this morning while exercising……..We’ve been wondering if we should give up our home of 42 years because of the 2 acres of woods and garden upkeep…..but we’re just not ready yet. Hopefully, we’ll be ready before it’s too late to deal with a major move. ❤️
Precious Susan,
I have loved your story at Martha’s Vineyard and prefer seeing those sites at your glorious home there over California. However, I understand your reasons for making California your forever home. Yes you will return to Martha’s Vineyard from time to time! YAY! Wherever you are, you find love and happiness and share it with us in such an uplifting way. Thank You. I look forward to more Willard’s as you share blessings with us. May God bless your way forward.
Much Love,
I am at the other end of the adventure you are beginning. Two and a half years ago we moved from where we had lived for 35 years and downsized and resettled. It was the right decision and it will be for you too. A benefit is new neighbours to meet! There are new stores to discover, new organizations to join, new places to do volunteer work and new paths to hike. And you downsize to your most precious items while taking everything else and every person with you in your memories.
Having just made such a move barely three months ago, I identified with every emotion, question and concern you described — it was heart-breaking to leave a home and place and people I loved with my whole heart and soul. On this side, however, in a single-level home and new (much smaller) garden, and in a location much closer to medical services, I am becoming content. Even joyful. It will happen for you as well!
Ah, Sue! What a decision you have had to make! All the possibilities you have had to consider! All considerations that face us as our years lengthen, health issues develop, and mobility is affected. Wishing you the very best as you make this move. – xoxo Nellie
Wow. That is very big news indeed. I wish you and Joe all the very best in your home in California. It’s wonderful that it is already your home and its familiarity will embrace you with warmth. We in Massachusetts will miss you as one of our own but will always welcome you as a Bay State alumna. Don’t be a stranger. Sending all love and good wishes!
VirginiaB
Dear Susan,
How timely for me was your note of today. I have been in my home for almost 30 years now and I am also being called to make a change. I fought it in my mind at first, then began to see the positives. I have always been one up for a new adventures, so am beginning to say “Why Not”…. “another new chapter to write”. Your writing has always inspired and helped me to find the “Magic” again. I thought I had lost it forever when I lost my husband, my sweetheart. Then I read your book, “ A Fine Romance”. What adventures and intentional living I have had since then. I see the fairies everywhere, once again.
Thank you dear Susan. I wish you and Joe all the very best as you go forward.
Much Love ❤️ to you,
Cynthia
Perfect Cynthia, “intentional living!!” That’s us!💝
Well, can we cry? Are you staying through the summer? I honestly thought your choice was a 50/50 situation, take care of an old two story gem if it might be hard to go upstairs or take care of all that acreage in CA? As a Californian it will nice to have you back but I am so sad. I will be 72 soon and I know we should face the ‘what if problems’ but my heart tells me ‘but what if you’re wrong’? And who will be in’OUR Vineyard’ home? I know you will be able to go back and visit because you know people and will know where to go, stay and eat, and you will be ok. But I’m not sure we will. Wishing all the best in your move and you must share the details still or we won’t be ok, even though we love you to pieces. ♥️♥️♥️♥️Barbara in Lodi
Don’t worry, one thing is for sure, I’ll be right here where I’ve always been. 💞
♥️♥️♥️
It’s not easy to do the downsizing,but is the best to do when you get older.
Three years ago we did the same and never regret! Living now only a few kilometers away from the shops and gp instead of driving 7 kilometer to the shops.
Take care and good luck with moving house.
Susan and Joe, so proud of you both for making a hard decision but a good one at that. So true, we wait too long to make a choice as we age and the wrong choice gets made for us.
Your house in California is perfect for all the reasons you mentioned. It is also important to stay physically active as we age, and California offers that 12 months a year. Your visits back to Martha’s Vineyard to see your friends and house will become more special and on point because we know how life can be.
Big hugs to you and Joe.
California is always the right decision! You are so right to think of weather and future health issues. I am so happy for you and Joe.
There is a lot to unpack in this post, no pun intended. My husband and I are facing these decisions ourselves but what makes it easier is realizing that all my lovely things, my home, etc., they’re all just borrowed. They belonged to someone before me, and they’ll belong to someone else after me but we’re all just borrowing them for the time we’re here. The only thing that matters is who we love, and who loves us in return. As difficult as this is, because let’s face it, a big change is ALWAYS difficult, things are going to be just fine. 💕
Oh, dear Susan…today I read the message that I had been expecting. What a decision you and Joe had to make and after reading about the pros and cons, I have to wholeheartedly agree that you’ve made the right one. And I’ll always have the memories and beautiful pictures of your life on Martha’s Vineyard and I look forward to the same from the beautiful part of California you’re moving to. And, Susan, what really brought this home to me was the picture I came across of the storm windows that Joe was taking down-not in California! I guess we never realize all the work that goes into keeping up a home with so much history and I hope the next owners appreciate what they’ll be getting. I wish you and Joe and Jack safe travels and look forward to reading about your new and exciting adventure! Love and hugs from Sarasota, Barbara xoxo
We left California, our birthplace, 5 years ago to retire in Northern Arizona and it’s been a great adventure! Just the other day we thought how did we manage to do this? You just put your head down and it all falls into place. We love restarting our lives, enjoying the change of seasons here and yes, occasionally snow. I think you will find it will be one of the best choices you have made. And getting rid of stuff, as hard as it is, is truly the best. It’s just stuff. Look at it as a new beginning and the possibilities are endless! Plus, you have another magical place to live.
Welcome back to California!! We moved from 2 1/2 acres (southern Cali) last summer to a 70ft X 150ft plot of land here in So. Ca.. We lived on the acreage since 1976 and I landscaped and planted three quarters of that place. Such a hard move but hubby had 2 strokes, a-fib, and a host of other age related problems. Even with us being in the same area with the same friends, it has been an adjustment. My heart goes out to you but you will make new memories….we are…..at 80 years old and…….I’m a hop skip and a jump younger😉. Blessings to you both!
Dearie Sue,
I know change is so hard and the change that comes with age is like the evening coming to Disneyland. You know you’ve got those last few rides and they are bittersweet with the knowledge that the park will close at some point. I say pick the best ones and make sure you’re with your ride or die guy or girlfriend!
I get anxious sometimes that I don’t have all the time left but really I never did- no day is guaranteed. So I just try to enjoy each day to the fullest and hope that as I get older I will remember to choose my rides well.
Wishing you every happiness as you move your home west. If you come through Salt Lake City and you need anything- our latchstring is always out for you.
xxooxx
Gabi❤🍀❤
❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️
YOU have ( quite literally for those who have read your memoirs ) written the book on moving onward and upward! I look at change much differently – with a sense of anticipation and intentional bravery – since I have read THE FAIRY TALE GIRL & MARTHA’S VINEYARD ISLE OF DREAMS. I am excited for your ( and Joe’s ) future adventures in the sun! Many blessings! Xox
Ah, I had a feeling this is the way things would go and things happen as they should. The beauty of it, you can always go back to visit…when the weather is good! I will send a vote for geraniums in your California garden, hardy and easy to grow. I have dozens of different varieties and colors that I buy from someone in Oregon or Washington, I forget which. They mail them and they arrive a bit sad but soon revive. Will be nice to know that you will be just up the state from me.
This is so bittersweet. For some reason, it makes me sad to think of you leaving your old house. Even though, I’ve never actually been there. Somehow, it was comforting knowing you were there hanging out your linens, decorating your table, planting your garden… I’m glad you will get to go to a familiar place that has more beautiful gardens and old friends for you to be surrounded with. None of us are getting any younger, and none of want to think about that. So, I get it. We will all just have to enjoy the journey together.
Wow, wow and wow! I can’t find my words right now. My husband and I are contemplating a move also and your words give me hope. Best wishes for all things good💕 It’s gonna be fine!
Oh my stars ✨ that is quite a Willard! Wishing you all the best of luck with your move. Life is good ❤️
Sue, when I met you and Joe at Stillmeadow in 2014, we talked about our mutual East Coast vs. West Coast dilemma. And you told me, “I know. You’re homesick no matter where you are.” My heart aches for you right now, but I know you will be happy no matter WHERE you are because that is just WHO you are. Sending love to you both.
WOW! Happy trails – we’ll be with you for the next era. xo
Susan a hard decision but also a happy one! Life always marches on. I will miss your Vineyard home as I am from Massachusetts and am in landlocked Colorado(which I love) but look forward to hearing of your life in California. Much happiness to you and Joe
Beautiful! I’m sad and happy for you and Joe but mostly happy. It sounds like a wise choice and it’s one my husband and I are contemplating. Your outlook and approach are inspiring. Thank you and safe travels to California! ❤️❤️❤️
Oh, my! What a struggle for you to go through. Selfishly, I love that you and Joe will be close by on the Central Coast, a truly beautiful part of the world. But how heartbreaking to leave your life on Martha’s Vineyard. New adventure’s await! Thank you for including us on the journey.❤️😢🥰
How wonderful to make this choice while it’s a choice and while you can do all the things you still want to do. We’ll miss MV stories but you will bring us new CA adventures and charm. Good luck with all of the packing – here’s to new adventures and reinventions!
Susan, Wow! All the best to you as you make your move and transition back to California. I love every one of your blogs, and pretty much everything you do! You have lived my dream of living in New England, and on a island, no less! Thank you for all that you share, and I will continue to be thrilled whenever I see a new Willard pop up. God bless-
SUSAN !! OMG ! When I read your last Willard I wondered why you are not doing things the ‘other’ way around and moving west ?? I am well aware how difficult a decision this is but I do believe you’ve made the right choice and once things are settled I think you’ll know you did. The Island will always be with you and your life there is but a Chapter. xo
When you packed so much in California..and didn’t go through with a sale ..I wondered..There is such wisdom in your choice.But it must be very very hard to go through with this.You have so many friends to come back to on MV.. there will always be a place to stay.
Glad I met you when I did:)California is too far for us in QC:)I am sure you are sifting through so many treasures:)Enjoy the memories.
Thank you Susan for your post. My heart feels with you.💔 I get it. We are facing decisions also. Your Willard helped me process some of my thoughts that have been tumbling around in my head. We live in Arizona part of the year, but the heart of our home is in Oregon. Our children, grandchildren, & now a great, are there. I don’t love the gray winters of Oregon, but I do love my sweet family with all my heart, & as you pointed out, visiting is still an option, during the grayest month. We have been so blessed to experience the best of Arizona & I love my darling little house. And then, there is all of my “heart stuff” here, that’s hard to turn loose of. BUT, “real life” is before us and I CHOOSE JOY. Thank you sweet friend, may your journey forward be filled with joy as you wend your way to California. ❤️🌼🪻
Oh my gosh! I can’t imagine leaving Martha’s Vineyard! I know you will have a wonderful spot in CA too but leaving behind 42/35 years is sad! I am the same vintage as you (1947) and we are facing many of these decisions as well. We just won’t be moving across the country. Our kids think we should be closer to them for assistance as we age. And looking through all our antiques and vintage things, I wonder where it will all go. But it will also be an adventure as you are looking at it. I remember a girls’ trip some years back and peeking through your hedge at your lovely place. Two of us did the looking and our other two friends were sure we would be arrested so they waited across the street! Good luck and maybe our paths will cross.
Wow! That’s a big decision but I hear you! My mother turned 97 on Sunday and we moved her closer to us over 4 years ago and I have been helping her to downsize ever since. It’s a difficult process. My husband (of 52 years) and I have been learning from that lesson. I spent a month after Christmas cleaning and sorting through things in our attic in a slow preparation of our downsizing even though we are not moving. It was a great trip through the land of memories! I have every card and love poem and note he ever gave me ❤️ and I kept those of course, but all the high school memorabilia was drastically reduced. I’m hoping my children and grandchildren will get a tickle out of some of it someday. Think of it as just another “passage” in a beautiful and continuing life. Welcome back to California!
I am going through the same thing. A couple of my dolls went to a local museum. Now I know I can visit them whenever I want to say “Hi”. So proud of you and California will embrace you in it’s sunshine. I think you will be moved before me, but January will be here soon and I will resettle in a new place.
Best of luck in your move; I know the whole process. We left our home of 33 years to move closer to family to ‘help’ in their everyday chaos with children and life. I’ve missed my home, garden and friends so, but putting in an effort to make our new home feel like home has been the challenge. The payoff is worth all the work. Keep the memories, sell the ‘stuff’ and have a safe journey. Sarah
Congratulations on your new adventure & welcome back to California🌴💦. Many of us are preparing for our next chapter these days. Daunting & exciting at the same time. We considered making a move out of SoCal but when it comes down to it, makes no sense to us. With great healthcare, #1, the climate, the ocean down the street, here we stay♥️. Hopefully I will meet up with you again at Apple Farm🍎
Oh Susan, you have been busy making decisions! I can’t believe you are leaving that magical island of Martha’s Vineyard! and yet I can. That walk to the beach you’ve done for years and years and years. What a huge change! You and Joe are in my thoughts – you know what is best for you! Good luck with the move. I look forward to more creativity and inspriration from CA!
Wow! I’m sure this wasn’t an easy decision. However, your journey continues and home is where the heart is. (Joe, Jack, etc.) <3
The island was a nice gift you gave yourself but the BEST gift the island gave you was your totally awesome husband Joe. Happily ever after continues. Enjoy the ride together.
I grew up in California but moved to Wisconsin at 23 and live here now still–25 years later. I always thought I’d move back but, as you know, life happens. When you posted the pics of your beautiful property in CA, I thought, “Oh my – how can they give it up?” So, from this CA transplant to another, I say GOOD FOR YOU!
So so very hard to do Susan. All of us who have had to make these choices know. And we will continue to make these choices. But you have an amazingly positive attitude!! Keep it going! Once you get past the sadness and loss, you then can concentrate on the positive fun things. Like decorating! It’s so much fun to use our creative juices on a new canvas! I can’t wait to hear about your next chapter. And would love to know about your estate sale. All the best, Gay
The only constant in life is change, right? This California girl welcomes you back to the Golden State. And how grateful you must be to already have a wonderful home here, patiently waiting for your return! Happy gleaning and sorting and packing! ❤️❤️
I don’t know if I could do it but I get why you are making the choice to move. My husband and I were just talking about you and Joe this weekend because we were in Savannah and found a Black Dog store there! I wish you all the very best in your new adventure! ❤️
Hi Sue & Joe,
What news! It will be luvlee for your entire family and friends will love a new reason to travel and visit you.
Mike and I did the same thing last summer. It is Not Easy but it is GOOD. Albeit, our move was just 2 hours away, it has still been a total uprooting, after 33 years in the same home. We have been in remodel hell since we moved and have two more bathrooms to go, maybe more.
We added the cutest puppy 🐶 to the commotion. His name is Dax and he is St Bernard/ Great Pyrenees cross. What joy, what work.
Wishing you and yours a smooth transition in a move that is anything but. You have your delightful gift of finding joy in everything. You will delight in your move, once you get there and settled. As you leave your very special home, don’t look back, just foward. I did and it is great.
Love you!
Melin
Surprise news, but it all makes sense. I so appreciate your attitude in making this big change. This California girl welcomes you back! 💕
I was VERY teary eyed reading your newest post. But then, I realized not everyone can move back home and pick up where you left off. It is WONDERFUL that you and Joe are seeking out a simpler life AND one that fills you both with happiness.
Wishing the both of you PURE JOY on your new adventure! Good health, good friends and GOOD memories await you ♥️🏠‼️
Congratulations and best wishes for a new adventure ❤️❤️
Dear Susan,
Wow- this is quite a post. I completely understand your moving to California, but WOW! There is so much for you to do, but you and Joe can do it. But, WOW! I think I will also add a sprinkle of YIKES in there as well.
This New England girlfriend wishes you, Joe, and Jack all the best the world can give you.
With hugs and hope,
Karen Holly
Susan, this hit so close to home. We are packing up our house of 40 years and just moving to a smaller house on the other side of town near our daughter. We are excited too. But the cleaning and donating is a bit much and it sounds like you don’t have to do all that. Good luck, know there are others in your shoes.
We’re packing what we’re taking and just walking out, leaving everything else for an estate sale. They will sell what they can, donate the rest, and get the house deep cleaned. Seems like you can get a service like this in a lot of places now. . . . so helpful! Deciding what to giveaway is impossible. Deciding what to take is much easier!
Wow! An adventure, how exciting for you, Joe & Jack! I look forward to you taking us along! Best wishes, Susan!!😃
Dearest Susan, I cried while reading this Willard. Everything you said is so true and I find that I am facing some of those same decisions in my life right now, as well. I wish you luck and strength. I know it will be so hard for you and Joe to leave your beloved home on “The Vineyard”. Be well and take care of yourselves during this giant transition!
Yes, I do know, I cried while writing it!❌⭕️❌
Be careful what you sell/leave behind. Think about it twice, and then a few days later, think about it again. We moved from Spokane, WA to Richland, WA seven years ago. I had in my head that I had to downsize; and I donated a LOT. (Husband donated nothing.) And there are so many things I can’t find now. Did I donate that? Did I pack it away so well I can’t find it now?
We bought a lot of those shoe-boxed size cardboard boxes from Michaels; and I packed my breakables into those and then into a larger box. We had no breakage at all. (Movers beat up my bedroom set though.) Like you, I had a lot of collections. (Perfume bottles, bells, half dolls, and other pretties were carefully packed.) We ended up having a house built (mostly because there was no housing), and it’s our biggest house to date. But I hate it here. Dust, dirt, WIND, heat, and looking at brown hills instead of the green of Spokane and the mountain. But we followed a Grandson and there was no family left in Spokane. And I left my house that I loved and lived in for 35 years. Grandson is 18 now; and who knows where he’ll end up next. At 76, I’ll never move again; but I sure miss green.
This is a good story. If you are a nature girl, a life without green is going to be very hard. I’m sorry for that Sheila.💋 Joe and I walk around the house now, picking up the things we would want to rescue if the house was on fire, and put them on the dining table to be packed up. I look at the pictures of the California house while we were recently there, remembering how clean and open it felt, and how much smaller it is. Just reminding ourselves!
Dear, Dear Susan, I am in tears after reading your news of leaving the island. It is not easy growing old. I wish you well and thank you for years of lovely inspirations through your books, calendars, post cards, note cards, recipe cards, stickers, needlework, tea cups, jewelry, Willards and blogs. May you find all the happiness you deserve.
I have it everyday Marge! And you are a part of it. Thank you!
Dear Susan, what a lot going on for you. Thank you for reminding us to lighten our loads as we age. I am thrilled you will be in California! Maybe we will see you more often. Much love for all your efforts in staying in touch. ~patty
Oh Susan! Sending BIG hugs and much love!!!!!
Laura in Illinois
And do the universe sends you signs. I have just made my move. Necessary but with great resistance. I have read and reread your words. I’m ashamed of my ungratefulness. Your words have made me take a different path. A change this big is so hard. I miss my friends, my big beautiful old house with deep window sills, crystal doorknobs, curved staircases, giant trees and beautiful garden that seemed to take a lifetime to accomplish. But I will open my heart and be more grateful and accepting of the changes. Hardest of all is accepting that I somehow got from 30 to late 70’s in a blink
Don’t want to think about not going on in this fantastic life forever. Thank you for the right words at the right time. I truly feel better.
With much love and appreciation for new adventures.
Such life changes! Susan, you are indomitable! Your books of quotes will give you the extra little bits of bravery and courage. Just think, you are going from one beautiful spot to the next. You are a very lucky lady. Best wishes with the move! And the best part? Your loved ones with and without whiskers that will be with you!
Oh, Susan! I may be one of the few, but I am SOOOOOO excited and happy for you! I just think this is such a wise and joyous decsion for you!! To me it’s absolutely a dream and no brainer to choose California! I know you won’t be sorry in the long run. I know you have a long road ahead sorting and downsizing, but what a lot of wonderful days to look forward to. You will be in my prayers, and I will eagerly look forward to each report and will be with you all the way!!
I am in EXACTLY in the same position as you, though in a much more modest way. You know my heart magnet has been California since the day I first set foot on it in 1976. And then the absolute wonder of meeting and marrying Gene there in 1980 when neither of us were looking for anyone or had the remotest idea we’d meet someone like each other. Our 41 years together were the absolute best. Our production together of his art career and my heping him manage it plus the books we did together– my writing and formatting; his illustrations.
I have come to the conclusion I do not belong here. We knew it was the right thing at the time a couple decades ago for him to find out why he left and what formulated who he was in his early years, and to paint about it, but he told me often. “I never would have come here without you.” But then, he got sick and left. However, he is still with me in so many ways.
I am not as far along in my process, and it will take an absolute miracle, and even though I don’t have all the answers, I’m not giving up. And you are a total inspiration and always have been.
Another thing. You are so wise and fortunate to have Joe with you, and making this decision while you are together. It’s a million times harder alone. But God’s guidance is there in whatever state we are in.
God bless you both. Thank you so much for keeping us all informed. ❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏XOXOXO
Thank you so much Jane, for your wise and very kind words. As always and forever, wishing you luck and love and a whole lotta you go girl! xoxoxoxo
We are facing this very same decision – to leave our farm and country life after investing so much love and energy (and 25 years). I want to do it before we are too old to manage and the burden falls to our children to sort us out! I know how difficult it must feel to leave so many wonderful memories, but I really, really admire you for being pro-active and choosing to be joyful! ❤️
At first I felt sad that you, Joe, and Jack will be moving clear across the country. But after reading about all the new adventures you would be looking forward to, I felt better. I know the sad feelings that you’re going through, trying to decide what to take, what to leave behind. That’s how I felt last fall when I packed up to move to a new home after my husband died. But, like you, I looked forward to what God would be showing me in my new home. Living a more simple life is so freeing. I love my new home and am still in the process of making it mine which is a lot of fun. I wish you well on your new journey.
Oh Susan; what a decision! I wish you joy in the now and in the memories but most of all in the future. You give so much to your heart sisters. Thank you beyond all measure and happiness and joy beyond all measure and comprehension. ♥️❤️♥️❤️❣️
I have difficulty with changes, but there is always change! You have the best outlook for your new adventure. I so appreciate your positivity!
Hard to see to type, past the tears in my eyes, of sadness, but also joy. Somehow I knew, when you couldn’t sign the papers. So much more to say, sometime. Godspeed, until we meet again. Which we will….❤️
Oh Pam … 💖💖💖💖💖💖
Oh Susan, I can’t put into words how special you & Joe are to so many people. The nature of life means changes, but how we respond & adapt to those changes is everything! You have been a wonderful caretaker of that magnificent home & infused it with as much love & joy as anyone possibly could. To pass it along to someone else is truly a gift & so true that it will always be a part of you & you a part of it. I have to admit that the idea crossed my mind that you might move when you said that you weren’t ready to sell. It was a big decision but I think you made a very wise one besides, your California property is really something special. Welcome back to the golden state! Guess I need to get an Insta account to follow along, lol
Much love ❤️❤️❤️
wow, such exciting news for those of us in california! welcome back home! and welcome to a new chapter in your book of life! a number of my friends and i are realizing, now that we are in our 60’s, we really don’t need a lot of stuff. the more things i get rid of, the happier i am. thank goodness for my Buy Nothing group! it’s not an easy process; be kind to and patient with yourself as you make those decisions. 💛💛💛
Sending you much love for the journey creating your next chapter together.
Beautiful post! Feeling so much. So much joy for your new adventure!! I can’t wait for you share it with us! So excited for you.
To say I am shocked is such an understatement. But being just a few years younger than you and alone, since I have already lost my love, I have many of these decisions to make. Leave this home my love built for me 28 years ago in the middle of nowhere west Texas and move back to my home of Ohio, which I dearly love and where my family and old friends are. But it is a total unknown. And it’s scary. So scary. Any thought of all this brings me to tears. You’re my hero and have been for so many years and maybe we are all connected and your choices will reverberate in the universe making little energy waves that will wash over us all.
Sending all my love and best wishes for an easy transition. And what I wouldn’t give to be at that estate sale.❤️
It is scary, Chris, but then look back on your life and all the scary things you’ve done already!💖💖💖💖
Best of luck to you, Joe and Jack as you begin this new chapter of your life! I am in the process of downsizing as well. So much stuff we collect over the years. Enjoy each memory 💜💜💜
I’m welcoming you to California! So exciting! I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, so, hopefully, you’ll have some presentations up my way and I’ll finally be able to come see you in person.
I understand how difficult it must be for you to move from Martha’s Vineyard with all it’s natural beauty, including the snow. But you’re right, it’s time to move to safer premises. I’m 81, so I definitely understand your move.
I hope you and Joe will enjoy California as a permanent residence and find joy in your new adventures here.
Warm regards,
Lisa
Dang! What a shocker! I never thought you would leave the Island. Interestingly, we had a winter storm like no other. It took down all the electric poles, heat, water (we are on an electric pump) down. There was so much snow we could not dig out our generators. We have a huge wood stove that kept us warm and my husband cooked meals on it. We melted snow to flush the toilets. We had lanterns for light, but they didn’t get the electricity or phones up for 6 days. Our livestock (horses and cattle) went old school and ate snow for water. It gave me pause. I too am getting a bit older and hefting 50 pound sacks of grain is rough. Feeding livestock with 1600 bales of hay-while driving a tractor is getting more dangerous. The really bad part is when I come off a young horse and hit the ground it takes a little longer to get up. LOL. This winter I tossed around maybe we need to make plans for our future. My doctor is a 7 hour round trip drive so an emergency would be bad.
I applaud your courage to leave what you love and cherish behind. I hope I get there myself someday. I’m just not sure I can leave the seasons behind. They dictate my very being. Wishing you and Joe a beautiful journey West.
Treese/Colorado Cowgirl
Ooooo, yes, an emergency would be bad.😮 Sending love Teresa …