Wishes Are Like ... Strawberry Infused Balsamic Vinegar

 

    "Wren sets another bushel of tomatoes under the table and sets to making a salad. On the outdoor worktable Wren has arranged small crocks filled with herbs; chives, basil and hyssop. Next to the crocks is a large shallow pan filled with lettuce leaves floating in cold water. From the pantry she procures some fresh ripe cream brie Luc has sent and carefully crushes a handful of herbs with a clove of garlic in a mortar. Taking the heady paste, she whisks it with some olive oil and strawberry infused balsamic vinegar. Last summer Wren had macerated large vats of balsamic with strawberries from the garden. After a day, she strained them out and set the vinegar in a dark corner of the pantry. This is her favorite vinegar. The strawberries bring out the fruity intensity of the balsamic.

    Carefully drying the Red Speckled lettuce, Wren arranges it on an opalescent platter. Adding fresh figs and slices of brie to the dressed leaves completes the salad. She admires it for a moment the intense purple against the cool white platter.

    Devlin comes striding out of the dining room with a tray of iced tea. He hands her a glass, kissing her cheek. “Another work of art!”" from Wishes Are Like ... the sequel to Wren Bay

After picking 20 pounds of strawberries, I have been making vinegar for the winter!!

 

Strawberry Infused Balsamic Vinegar

makes one bottle, plus one small jar

1 bottle of balsamic vinegar

frozen strawberries, see notes about amounts*

In a jar or bottle bigger than your bottle of vinegar, pour our vinegar inn it. Add enough strawberries, still frozen, to come halfway up the vinegar. Cover jar and set aside, out of the sun. Let the vinegar sit no more than 2 days. When it smells like strawberries, strain out the berries. Pour you vinegar back in the bottle. You will have extra, which can go in a smaller bottle. A gift for friend, maybe? Store in vinegar a cool, dark cupboard. It will keep for one year. The berries are good in salads. They will keep in refrigerator 2-3 days.

*Note

You can make a small batch or a large batch. Just eyeball it, and use about half the amount of vinegar for the strawberries. For example, one cup of vinegar, you would use ½ cup for frozen strawberries but it does not need to be exact.

It is important to use frozen fruit, because they give out more juice.

 

 

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Roasted Veggie Salad w/ Kalamata Olive Vinaigrette

Roasted Fennel & Beet Salad w/ Orange Vinaigrette

 

Wren's Day at the Beach

This is a little Wren piece I wrote last month and almost did not share it. As you can see in the piece I am feel stressed and so, Wren is stressed too :-) I decided to share it becuase maybe one of you is feeling like Wren and maybe this piece will speak to you.

PS these beautiful images are from Ozma of odds. I am sure if Wren had seen this beach carrier I am sure she would have made one herself!!

 

    Wren scrunches her toes in the sand, trying to push her cares away. She closes her eyes, tilting her head back as the breeze runs across her bare shoulders. All she can hear is the pounding of the ocean waves. The sound rises and rises, then carries all of life’s worries away into the sea. For life this past spring has had its challenges. Two baby calves died unexpectedly. This is a part of dairy life but is still sad. Lily’s heart was especially broken. She had stayed up all night caring for those babies, putting all her love into them. It is hard when love is not enough to save someone or something.

    Spring also has brought flooding rains. Rain is good but not when it floods out fields and gardens. The vegetable garden had to be replanted three times. With the cold, gray weather everything is tiny and struggling to grow. Wren is trying not to let visions of a bare root cellar next winter panic her.

    Métier Adornments is doing well with lots of custom orders for items like lace encrusted scarves and knitted mini clutches. But it seems lately every customer’s wants changes with the breeze. One day pale pink, then next day after lace has been dyed, no, a deep rose would be better. Mary about gave up when Mrs. Crampton called to ask if she could redo the length of the selves on the knitted jacket, even though they had discussed the length five times.

    Lily has hit a bump in her math and spelling. These are areas she has always struggled with but lately it seems like she has forgotten all she has learned since September. Mary is panicking that Lily seems to not be keeping up. Wren feels Lily is on the verge of a growth spurt and sometimes one seems to go backwards before jumping forward. Mary is trying to trust the learning process and Wren but “this homeschooling” is still so new to her.

    Wren keeps checking off her list of worries over and over in her head. Why does it seems like little stress come all at once and then rolls themselves into one big stress? Each of these problems in themselves would not overwhelm her but put all together and Wren is ready to call defeat.

    This is why Wren is standing on the beach wiggling her toes in the sand. Both Devlin and she need a break from life. So Devlin whisked them both off to the sea. He walks up from the ocean’s edge with a perfect silver dollar. “Here, I found this for you. They say the star shape represents the Star of Bethlehem. A reminder that God watches over us, like He did for His son.”

    Wren thought of what it must have been like for Mary, being nine months pregnant riding on a mule every day. The worry, the stress and pain she must have endured? To be away from her family, the fear of going into labor any minute with only Joseph for help! All Wren would have wanted if she was Mary was to be in her own bed, surrounded by the comfort of her own home with the people who loved her. What faith and courage it must have taken Mary! It puts ones every day struggles in perspective.

    Wren looks up into Devlin’s dark eyes, a place she gets so lost in. She is not alone, just like Mary was not alone. Wren has Devlin, like Mary had Joseph. They both have God who will give them the strength when they need it. Who will also give them the respite when they need it? Yes, today is a time of rest, a time to letting go of have-to’s. A day for setting aside troubles. She grabs Devlin’s hand. “Let’s go enjoy the peach pie I made with pistachio crust my love.”

We Wish You

"Those wishes in her heart were more than mere dreams; they were the strings pulling her towards the path of her life."

    The snow lightly drops icy, delicate flakes around Wren. Each one a masterpiece, telling the power and creativity of their creator.

    “How? Why, would someone put such thought into a tiny speck of water?” Wren ponders to herself as she sits by the frozen lake. “I mean, they could just be tiny balls of ice and leave it at that.”

    Lily and Wren have been reading about a gentleman, Mr. Wilson Bentley of Jericho, Vermont, who has been photographing snowflakes for over 30 years. After taking Lily to an exhibit of his work, both of them are fascinated with snowflakes.

    Again a reminder of the importance of observing nature! How the tiny details in the world around us are worthy of our time and observation! Mr. Bentleyunderstands this. His passion and dedication to his subject is humbling to Wren. It seemed to her, Mr. Bentley’s eyes lit up as he spoke of his work at his exhibition. Wren is not sure, if like him, she could stand for hours and hours out in the snow with hopes of capturing one photo of a perfect snowflake.

    Was she focused and determined like Mr. Bentley? Was she giving her full heart and attention to what she was created for? Those wishes in her heart were more than mere dreams; they were the strings pulling her towards the path of her life.

    With Christmas here and the end of the year around the corner, Wren makes a promise to God and herself to seek her wishes with a full heart and clear determination. She reminds herself not all her wishes may come true but she will have faith and do the hard work necessary.

 

 

Wren, I and my family (the girls say hi!!)

would like to wish you a Merry Christmas, a happy Holiday and a blessed New Year.

Every New Year is filled with opportunities, challenges, blessings and trials.

I pray you are filled with wishes and a determination this New Year xox

 

ps. I am taking a little break and will be back in two weeks (unless I am dying to tell you something) !!

Image from All The Beautiful Things

 

A Pumpkin Pie Reminder

 

     Wren sits at her worn, wooden table making a Thanksgiving list. She has learned that her lists are usually too ambitious but she is determined to be organized this year. “Let’s see.” She hums to herself. “Well turkey of course. Seth and Devlin will go hunting this Saturday for a wild turkey. I am so glad Seth will be smoking it. He does such an amazing job with his prized hams. Oh, I need to remind Thayer to get some fresh oranges for me when he is in Boston for the brine. I harvested plenty of shallots. With the fresh orange juice, I think it will make a wonderful brine for the turkey.”

     She stands and pulls the singing kettle off the stove. Then pours the hot water in a cup filled with fresh apple peels, a dash of grated nutmeg and a sliver of candied ginger. Her new favorite tea! With all the apple dishes she has been making, it is a nice way to use the peel. Covering the cup with a small plate, she continues on with her list as the peels steeps.

     “Devlin wants me to make stuffing with apple-sausages and chestnuts. I think I will make some rosemary bread for the stuffing. Mash potatoes and gravy is a must! The boys will be so sad if we do not make any. I am making Mimi’s cranberries in port wine tomorrow. It will keep for a week. I think steamed green beans with olive oil and lemon zest will brighten up the meal a bit and a salad of bitter greens to clean the palette is in order. Mary is making an apple/cheddar soup and buttermilk pie for dessert.”

     Straining out the peel and spices, Wren adds a dash of honey and takes her cup to the front sitting room. She sits down at Grace’s table with the floral mother of pearl inlay and looks out the window. This has been her favorite spot lately. She looks out over the fruit orchards, which is bare now, but she can see the lake and the rolling hills beyond filled with deep reds and flaming gold. Autumn is putting on a quite a show this year. Wren can see the cows out in the field and the steam coming from their nostrils. They will get culled apples for Thanksgiving. Last year Lily put a bow on each apple, which the cows ate. Seth was not happy!

     She continues to write. “Lily and I are going to make apples stuffed with dried cranberries, walnuts and butter. Add some maple syrup and cream drizzled on top, yum! So what can I do today? I baked and pureed the long pie pumpkins yesterday. I think I will make a double batch of pumpkin pie filling and freeze it in the ice house. That and the pie crust. Then on Thanksgiving all I have to do is pull out the crust and filling, defrost and bake away. Plus I will have extra for another night. Or maybe I will take a pie to Miss. Larkin? She always has a wonderful book for me to check out of the library.”

     After making a reminder to cut herbs from Grace’s garden early Thanksgiving morning, Wren feels like she has a plan and that helps her to relax. After a delicious dinner of ham, apple, potato pie with a cheddar crust, Devlin watches Wren glue slips of paper’s around feathers. She writes the name of a person on the paper.

     “What are you doing my dear?” Devlin is always amazed at how Wren uses what she has.

     “They are for the Thanksgiving table. I thought each person could write what they are thankful for this year on the back of the paper. Then they would have a keepsake.”

     She looks him with those wide, gray eyes, waiting for him to laugh at her. Instead he leans over, kissing her neck and whispers. “I know what I am thankful for this year!”

Dear readers, this is a great time to make pie filling and crust for the holidays. One to-do, checked off your list xox

Image from Wildflower photos

 

Lily, John and the Cookie

 

I am having a hard time with the next Wren book. I about 2/3 done and need some fresh inspiration. I keep folder with lots of photos and decided to write some small vignettes inspired by the photos. Here is one about Lily and her brother, John.

 

      John reaches across Lily and takes the last cookie before Lily can have one.

      “John Harrison, it is not polite to take a cookie away from a girl!” Lily says in her older sister voice, even though she is two years younger than him.

      “You’re not a girl, you’re my sister! Besides you made the cookies with Wren, didn’t you have some at her house?”

      “No.” Lily answers indignantly. “I made two cookies for each person in math. There is mama, papa, you, Stephan, Jayden and Ethan. Oh and Thayer but he is not here.” Slowly she counts with her fingers.  “So that is 1 … 2 … 3 … 4 … 5 … 6 and me. 7 plus 7 is.”

      Lily starts to count again and John impatiently interrupts, for he excels at math and does not understand those who do not. “2 times 7 is 14. I hope Wren teaches you your times table soon.”

      “I am only 6 and you know I am not good at math.” Lily wipes a few tears from the corner of her eyes.

      He hates to see her cry. His father is always telling the boys it is important for them to be kind to their little sister and her girly ways. “Remember you will have a wife one day and she will need you to be extra kind to her.”

      John is sure he will never have a wife. No, he is going to move to Alaska and camp in the snow! But it always makes his heart feel funny, like it is being squeezed when Lily cries. It is how he feels when one of the mama cows pushes away her new born baby.

      Lily announces with a slight pout. “I made 14 cookies but Jayden and Ethan came in and ate 3 cookies each. I will make a sign next time that says two cookies each.”

      “Good idea.” Agrees John but Lily watches him with big, shocked eyes as he gobbles down the cookie.

      After super that night his mother, Mary, serves chocolate cake. John slides his plate over to Lily.

      “Don’t you want your chocolate cake John? I thought it was your favorite.” Mary asks shocked.

      “No, mama. I am full.” He smiles at Lily and his heart does not feel like it is being squeezed.

Things I Love

 

Sweet Land, thanks to Heather (thank you xoxo) I found out about this wonderful movie. It really touched me. If you have netflix, it is on instant watch right now. Check it out!

(just to give you heads up there is one scene where you can see her bum but it is not sexual. There are no sex scenes in this movie)

Hobo Wedding, this is the sweetest wedding I have ever seen. Thank you LaVonne for sharing it.

These volcano cookies, are amazing. I know the recipe sounds weird but it works, I promise!

Bookshevles Made From Pallets

Make a Doily Lamp

Plant a tea garden or a cocktail garden!! or both ;-)

Andrea's lace cupcake liners, so easy

Make your own appliques for furniture, check out Katty's blog, she has lots of wonderful ideas. She is quite brillant!!

Image above is how I picture Wren picking lavender in the field she and Devlin planted at Bay Farm. Image from

Come Win A Copy Of Wren on CSI Project

 
                    

I am thrilled to announce CSI project  is have a Wren Bay give-away. Good luck!!! Give-away closed, congrats Paula!!

A Beautiful Wren Bay Review

 

I just had to share this beautiful Wren Bay review by Gracious Hospitality . I have to say, always be open to making new friends. When I had LaTeaDah to my house for tea, l we had never meet. Now look at the wonderful friendship we have! Thank you LaTeaDah and I wish I could have all of you over for tea xoxo

 

    Several summers past I turned onto a road that was so hidden in the trees that I missed it the first time I passed.  The road was lined with tall evergreens and consisted of a dirt and gravel lane that wound through the woods.  It led to a quaint old house that was once the home to an Admiral.  As the car stopped, the back door opened and out popped Clarice and her two lovely daughters.  Warm hugs and friendly words were shared as everyone started talking at once.  It was our first meeting, but you'd have thought we had been friends forever.  The Wren-like warmth of this trio made me feel right at home.  I was directed through a old-fashioned kitchen to the living room.  A cozy coverlet-lined sofa provided a comfortable place to sit, but I couldn't sit for long because there were so many interesting things to see.  Clarice's china closets were lined with unusual vintage pieces and bits of artwork.  Mayra, a black, floppy-eared rabbit hopped across the floor.  It's crate was open nearby with a bowl of bunny food beside it.  Throughout the house, interesting vignettes created pretty places for the eyes to settle.  A wooden doll house that was completely furnished and artfully decorated by Chloe for an upcoming holiday was set at a focal point.  It fit into the decor in the most charming way.  Auberne's passion for Tolkien and characters in that genre could be seen in her artwork and the books she surrounded herself with.  In the center of the living room, a large, antique table was set.  An assortment of wooden chairs surrounded the table that was draped with a colorful vintage cloth.  Mismatched vintage china and real silverware was set at each place-setting.  Dainty ladies hankies served as place mats.  The effect was so unique and charming; you would have to be there to completely experience its appeal.  Even with all the lovelies throughout the room, one's eyes were always set on coming back to rest on the beautiful table.  While Clarice was putting the finishing touches on making the food for tea, her sweet daughters gave an enticing tour of their cottage home.  The girls, Auberne' and Chloe, shared of the projects they had been stitching, crafting, and enjoying.  A beautifully appointed library was lined with rows upon rows of old books.  A comfy sofa with a plaid covered table beside it encouraged the reading of a good book and some time out.  Here, Mr. Fox-Hughes was cheerfully ensconced, watching some television in this cozy man-den, keeping out of the way so that the ladies could enjoy a special afternoon.  Upon completion of the tour, we sat down for tea.  The menu was unique and the food delightful!  Summer Hill tea spoke of rosemary and lavender as it was poured into china teacups from a crown-adorned Roseanna teapot.  Individual pots of thick chocolate mousse, walnut-lavender scones, homemade espresso truffles, and lavender honey gave the palate an experience not soon forgotten.  Chattering voices shared topics near and dear to our hearts, covering everything from crafting, home education, home remedies, recipes, and more.  The time flew by swiftly.  Those moments shared cemented a friendship that is cherished still and meaningful beyond measure.  Kindred spirits are always connected, even when distance complicates togetherness.

 

    It is with this scene in mind that I opened the colorful cover of the novel, Wren Bay.  It is the very personal and cherished work of Clarice Fox-Hughes.  As I read its pages, I came to realize more and more that the protagonist, Wren, truly was the substance of Clarice.  Clarice's creative spirit was reflected so well in the story of Wren as she worked to create a warm and loving home for her beloved Devlin and herself.  Wren's privileged upbringing and appreciation for fine things reflected the childhood of Clarice, a child raised with foreign travel and affluence.  One couldn't help but feel that Clarice really knew her subject as her writing voice speaks of European elegance and Boston society.  It was obvious that Clarice had researched her subject well as she wrote of herbal remedies, fine-crafted stitchery projects, delicious dishes made from gourmet recipes, and more.  Clarice described Wren's experiences of learning to milk a cow with equal assurance and expertise, although after meeting Clarice I really doubt she has ever milked a cow herself.  The characters in Wren Bay are well-developed and become intertwined not only in the life of Wren, but to the reader as well.  Aunt Sophie could be any one's favorite spinster aunt, and Mimi obviously cooks with the talent of Julia Child.  Mary becomes a reassuring figure to Wren, taking on a mother-like quality for her, as the reading audience is aware that Wren was orphaned a child.  Heart-strings are pulled by the child, Lily, whom Wren takes under her wing, teaching her about life by the same whole-child techniques that Clarice used to home educate her own daughters.  Holistic and creative, using nature and objects from daily life, these methods were illustrated by the experiences of Wren and Lily as the child learned effortlessly by natural teaching techniques.  Wren's practical ease in creating a nurturing environment is reflected in Clarice's home.  As I completed the last page of Wren Bay, reading the final sentence which consists of the words "Wren's blessing tonight. . ." I could not help but say three words of my own.  Wren is Clarice.

 

    Wren Bay, the story of making a home, exudes charm, creativity, and warmth.  It is skillfully mixed with grace and elegance, with a true mix of practicality, economy, and the careful use of natural resources.  Later, as I pondered this delightful book, I remembered the day that I sat at Clarice's table and she shared with me that she agonized over any aspect of her life that required writing.  Her life-long experiences with dyslexia has caused her moments of concern and learning challenges.  I recalled how she shared that writing a blog post was agonizing at times as she struggled to choose just the right words and to place them correctly in a paragraph with spelling that was true.  These obstacles, the technical aspects of writing a book, were overcome by Clarice as she allowed her vivid imagination and creativity to shine forth.  She has written a novel that is fully developed, with settings the reader can picture, and with characters the reader comes to know as friends.  Wren Bay is a delightful book and a joy to read!  Great job, Clarice!  Thank you for sharing a piece of your heart!  

I anticipate volume two of the delightful life of Wren Bay.  

LaTeaDah @2011

Buy Wren Bay In Delaware!!

 

For any of you who live near Clarksville, Delaware you can now purchase Wren Bay at the Hudson General store. I have to say Hudson General looks like the most charming store, brimming with goodies. I am sad I live on the other side of the states (I think I need a road trip!!). It is pretty thrilling to see Wren selling in a store. Thank you Melody and Kim for your love and support of Wren. Hudson General also sells Thistle Dew scherenscnitte. Just beautiful work!! If you are near Clarksville check out Hudson's and Wren Bay.

By the way the image above is how I imagine Wren doing the dishes. Don't you agree!!!

Come Win A Signed Copy of Wren Bay

 

Good day readers,

my dear friend Manuela is having a give-away on her blog for a signed copy of Wren Bay. I am sooo excited to have my first give-away on someone else's blog. Please join in (even if you have a copy, you can give one to a friend). The give-away ends Friday night and is open to both US and abroad.

I want to thank Manuela for taking the time and a blog post to post about Wren. My blog has brought me sooo many blessing, the biggest is dear friends. Thank you Manuela, you and I go wayyyyyy back and you are my blessing today xoxox

ps. the image above is Sophia's brownstone!!

Wren Bay Stuff!!

 

Well it is the new year and like, 120 something days since I published Wren Bay, the story of making a home, the response has been overwhelming to me. Wren is selling well, readers are banding around the word sequel (I am playing, we will see. I will say I have been doing a lot of research about Provence), a shop back East will start selling Wren (I will let you know when) and everyone is just plain supportive. So thank you,  thank you.

BUT I have a favor to ask you readers. If you have read Wren, would you consider writing a review in my Lulu shop. Scroll down to the bottom of the page (click on the link) and you can leave a review. I really need reviews!This is the part of Wren I do not like. Trying to get the word out about the book, uggggg. Also if you have/do write a review about Wren on your blog, let me know, I will post a link.Thank you.

If you are having any problems ordering my book, e-mail me I will help in any way (I do have a few copies on-hand right now). I still have bookplate I can sign and send if you want one (info at the top of the blog). By the way if you have ordered Wren, I would not know. I cannot see who buys my books, only what has sold. So do not assume I know you have purchesed Wren and would love to hear who has bought my book. Well I think that is it for now. I am hoping to do a few give a-ways on other blogs soon. Lastly let me leave you with Wren and Devlin's song while he was away at war, Winter Song by Sarah Bareilles.

PS the image above is how I picture Madam Mimi and Benard ( pronounced Ben-yard) on thier honeymoon!!!

 

My Shop

Where you can purchase Wishes Are Like ... , Wren Bay or Baking Book

New Posts Below

 
If you would like a signed bookplate, just send me a self-addressed envelope. Also please tell me who you would like me to sign the book plate to. Thank you

Storybook Woods

P O Box 288

Keyport, WA

98345-0288

Wren Bay reviews

Bernideens Tea Time

Tarnished and Tattered              Rosie's Ramblings

Sis Boom                                        Nanas House

Fox Tales                                        Frugal Luxuries

Homespun Living                        The Pleasures of Homemaking

Lazy Bee Farm                             Coffee, Tea, Books & Me

Lavender and Pearls                  Gracious Hospitality

The Blessed Hearth                    Life of the Unemployed

Life in Every Breath                    Cherished Hearts at Home

 Gumbo Lily                                  Sweet Felicity

Changed By Love                      Creekside Cottage

Party and Spiced Punch and a Winner, Oh No!

 

It was a wonderful

 

book singing party full of 

 

Laughter

 

Cakes

 

Seabold Hall

Me signing books

Wren Bay

 

Me signing

 

Fresh bay leaves for cooking for guest to take home

 

More signing

 

Vignettes

 

Signing

 

Treats

 

And signing!!!

Sorry for all the pictures of me but I did not think any if my friends would want their picture on my blog. I want to thank Mary, Linda and DiXymiss for the amazing photos they took for me!! And so many friends how helped me set up and take down. And just the general love and support for Wren Bay. It helps me to hear specifically what you love about Wren and if I write more, what character you want to know more about. The party was quite surreal and overwhelming for me but such a blessing. Thank you all who came, some even from another state, it means more than I can express. I hope you got enough to eat  ;-)

Besides yummy cakes and tea, I created a wonderful punch. I wanted some kind of a spiced cider but cold. I came up with the idea of making a ginger/vanilla syrup and adding the syrup to the juices, then a bit of bubble water to cut the sweetness. It was really good enjoy!!

And now to announce the winner of Wren Bay is Tatting Chic, congratulations. I will e-mail you!! Thank you, thank you again for all your love and support. If you get Wren and deced to ever write a review, let me know and I will link it xoxo

Spiced Cider Punch

1/2 cup ginger vanilla syrup*

One 1/2 gallon jug apple cider

1 bottle of sparking cranberry cider

1 bottle bubble water

 

*Syrup

1 cup water

1 cup sugar

1 vanilla bean cut in half

1 thick slice of fresh ginger

In a sauce pan place all ingredients in a pan and let simmer on low 10 minutes. Set aside 1/2 hour to cool. Remove vanilla bean and ginger. Cut vanilla open and scrap out the beans into the syrup and mix together. 

 

Punch

Mix the syrup, cider and cranberry juice. Taste and see if you like it and if it needs more syrup. Then add bubble water to your taste. I make the punch strong and sweet then add some bubble water to cut it. Enjoy

Wren's Coming Out Party

 

Woohoo, this day is finally here.Thank goodness, akk!! Oh the book signing was amazing and I promise to share pictures, my spiced punch recipe and much more, when my brain is not mush. I was humbled beyond words by the love and support I and Wren received.

I want to share with you an image of what I think Wren looks like. As I wrote Wren Bay, this is who I saw in my mind, I am still tyring to pin down Devlin. I also had several songs I would listen to when I wrote. This is Wren and Devlin's song, You Picked Me by A Fine Frenzy. I have more songs and pictures I will share down the road. I think it makes the story more fun and helps create a little world. Which is what I want for you when you read Wren, a little mini-vacation.

   

I feel bad I can not sign books, so I came up with the idea I could make bookplate, sign them and send them to you. If you would like a bookplate, send me a self-addressed envelope to

Storybook Woods

P O Box 288

Keyport, WA

98345-0288

Just tell me who you want me to sign the book to. I would be thrilled to send you one. If I could include a slice of Wren's wedding cake too, I would  ;-)

Here is some reviews that already have been written. Thank you so much for them and for all your support. Everyone of you have been so kind to me xoxo

Foxtales

Homespun Living

Sis Boom

Tarnished and Tattered

Lazy Bee Farm

Lavender and Pearls

PS, I have a feeling someone has written a review and I am missing it. If it is you, please let me know!!

 

 

 

imige by Amanda Pratt

Wren Bay Parties

 

Hi. I wanted to share about Wren Bay's book signing party and her on-line coming out party.

 First for anyone in the Seattle area (although I have a few people from OR and eastern WA coming) I am having a book signing/tea party October 16th on Bainbridge Island. Here is a link to a map. You can always email me for more info. There will be yummy treats from the book, candy-cane soaked chocolate cakes, earl gray cookies and Wren's wedding cake, a browned butter almond cake. All are welcome.

Also on October 18th is Wren's on-line coming out party. There will be a book give-away and information on getting a signed bookplate. For those who post about the give-away or write a review of Wren, I will enter your name twice. Just let me know. Thank you again for all your support xoxo

My Books

 

 

Good day everyone, I hope you are surviving this crazy weather. I wanted to write a thank you because the response to Wren Bay has been wonderful and overwhelming. I am getting the most supportive notes, her sales are great, some of you are even ordering multiple copies at Christmas gifts (one person ordered 12 copies, thank you xoxo). I am just humbled. Thank you so much. If you are on Facebook, I have created a Fans of Wren Bay page. Occasionally I will have info. about Wren and extras. For example last week, I share a way to bling up Mary's roasted apple sausages and rosemary potato recipe.

 Also I wanted to share I have redone the cover on my baking book (long story). I was calling it my petite-magazine but now I do not think my original idea will work for me. I do have more books in mind. Actually have a craft/cooking book hand-n-hand I am working on. But we will see what I can get to. So I have renamed this book Storybook Woods Baking Book. I can assure you it is the same book you have ordered in the past just with a new front and back cover and a new name. I would hate for someone to order this, thinking it is something new, when they had the old one. Tomorrow I will have a bit more Wren news ot share but then I promise I will post about something that has NOTHING to do with WB, I promise xoxo

Wren Bay Promotional Video

Gosh everyone thank you for the Wren Bay love, support and purchases!!! It pays for my blog. Okay I have to mommy brag here, my amazing, wildly creative Auberne` made me a promotional video for Wren Bay. What a smart idea sweet pie, I love it and I love you. Thank you for putting up with me xoxox

(I am not seeing this video on my laptop but Auberne` is on hers. If you can not see it go here to watch!!!)

PS. Okay I promise next post will have NOTHING to do with Wren, truly. It is a easy, fun fall center piece. Think rice and beans !!

Come Read Wren Bay

Well I am pleased to announce Wren Bay, the story of making a home, is ready for purchase. I have posted the back cover to read (right click and open in a new window to make readable page) and the table of contents listing all the recipes. Some are some from my blog but there are 23 new recipes. You can read the intro and first chapter at my store or here. My store does have a sample of the book. I wanted to say the covers look fuzzy, (grrr, I am not sure I can fix that) but I can assure you the cover is not fuzzy when you get the book. It is just being on-line and blowing up the picture from the file. You can see both front and back cover here.

I know it is impolite to talk about money but I have had several chats with people about the cost of the book. Most people do not realize how expensive self-publishing is. So I am just going to be blunt here. I make $5.00, on all my books. That is it, 5 bucks, my line in the sand. All other costs are printing, shipping, publishing, ect. I wish I could do the book cheaper, really (I am still researching) but at this point, this is the cheapest I can do. I know my baking issue is in PDF form but I do not feel that is the best form for a 296 page novel. So this is what I wanted to share with you about the cost.

I am hoping in one month to have coming out party. If you purchase Wren Bay and like the book, maybe you would consider doing a post at her coming-out party. I have also been asked if I can sign the book. The answer is no because it comes strait from the publisher to you, when you order it. BUT at the coming out party, I am going to have book-plates, I can sign and send to you. Also for anyone in the Seattle area, I will be having a book sighing party on Bainbridge Island. I will share more when I have the info. I will have tea and yummy food from the book (because you know I have to feed you ;-)

I want to thank each and every one of you who come to my blog. This process of writing a book has been amazing, frustrating and my brain is way bigger now :-o  But if it was not for all of you, I never could have, would have done this. So thank you soo much and I hope you love Wren the way I do. I hope she inspires you to follow your bliss with fierce passion, I know she has inspired me to xoxox

Table of Contents

Intro……………...……………………………………….9

Part 1 Chapter 1………………………………………...12

Chamomile Tisane………………….……………………..22

Chapter 2………...……………...………..…………..….23

Lavender Vinegar Rinse……...……………………...…….31

Chapter 3………………………..……………………….32

Gâteau Noix au Chocolat……………..…………………...39

Chocolate Ganache Sauce…………………………………39

Chapter 4……………………………..………………….40

Buttermilk Biscuits ………………..…………………….. 47

Fresh Blackberry Vinaigrette………………………...……48

Chapter 5……………………………..………………….49

Red Wine Plum Jam……..…………………….…………..56

Chapter 6………………………….………….………….57

Elderberry Syrup…...……………………………………...64

Chapter 7……………………………………………..….65

Rose Syrup………….……………………………………..72

Salad with Caramelized Peaches…………………………..73

Chapter 8………………………………………..……….74

Caraway Stuffed Pork Chops……………………………...84

Chapter 9……………………………………..………….85

Oven Dried Marinated Tomatoes with Herbs….…..…...…92

Grace's Tea Mix……………...…..………………………..92

Part 2 Chapter 10……...………..…………….………..94

CreamFraiche……………..……………..…………..…...103

Chapter 11…………………………..………………….104

Roasted Vanilla Apple or Pear Sauce…………………....112

Chapter 12……………………………………..…….....113

Overnight Oat Cakes………...…………………………...121

Chapter 13………………………………..…………….122

Cider Syrup.............................................. …………....132

Roasted Apple Sausages and Rosemary Potatoes.………..133

Chapter 14……………………………………………...134

Financier Almond Bundt…………...……..……………...143

Auberne's Mayo Cake…………...……………………….145

Chapter 15………………………………..…………….146

Meunière…….…………………………………………...156

Chapter 16………………………………..………….....157

Jam Hand-Pies ……..…………………………………….164

Pate Brisee…………..………………………………...….164

Chapter 17………...……………………..……………..165

Foot Warmer………..…………………………..…..…....175

Cider Cake………….………………………………….....175

Chapter 18….…………………………….………….....176

Earl Gray Cookies …………..…………………………...185

Lavender Honey Shortbread….…..………………….…..186

Part 3 Chapter 19………………..…………………….188

Légumes Farcis, Rice Stuffed Vegetables...……….…….196

Chapter 20…………………………..……………….....197

Canelle Lapin, Cinnamon Braised Rabbit………….….....209

Orange Honey Ice….…………………………………….210

Chapter 21…………………………………..………….211

Candy-Cane Soaked Chocolate Cake……...………….....220

Candy Cane Syrup…………………..…………………...220

Snow Cream……………….……………...……………...220

Chapter 22…………………………………..………….221

Chocolate Rosemary Bread…...………………………….228

Nettle Cheese Pie……….………………………………..229

Chapter 23………………………………..…………….230

Homemade Vegetable Stock……………………….…….238

Chapter 24………………………………..…………….239

Chapter 25………………………………..………….....248

Petite Plum Gâteau……………...……………………..…257

Onion Tart……………………………..………………....258

Chapter 26……………………..……………………….259

Lobster Melon Salad……………………………………..271

Chapter 27……………………………………………...272

Baked Cream Eggs with Browned Butter Spinach and Sun

Dried Tomatoes…………………..………………………285

Epilogue……………………………...………………....287

Letter from the Writer ……………..…………….….289

Cast of Charters…………………..………………...…292

List of Blessings…..…...………..…..…………….……293

Webography………....…..…………………….………294

Wren Bay, So Which Cover Do You Like?

A

B

Yeah, I am just about to order an actual copy of Wren Bay and if all goes well, I will have books to sell in a couple of weeks. But I need your opinion on the cover. I know the differences are small, but hey, it is all in the details. So tell me which do you like better A or B? I hope you like the photo, I am in-love with it.

Thank you xoxox
 
 

Okay, Clarice, Share The Secret Already

Well I am seeing light at the end of the tunnel, so I can FINALLY share what I have been obsessed (and bugging you) with. I think most of you think I have written a cookbook or craft book. Wrong, well sort of. I have written a novel.

Wren Bay, the story of making a home

It all started a couple of months ago, when I shared the sweet, little doll Paula made for me. I told you I had this little story in my head and decided to write it out for myself. It was about a doll, which had an herb garden. She was a newlywed and her husband was off to war. I thought it would be a page or two, because I am NOT a writer (I know Sharon I am a writer, I just do not feel like one  ;-)  Well 60,000 something words, 27 chapters, 3 parts later I have a novel. Not about a doll either. It is about Wren Bay, a newlywed, whose husband is gone to serve in WW1. Wren is a Boston socialite (although she was homeschooled), who is now living on her husband's dairy farm in Massachusetts. She knows nothing about dairy farms but she does not need to, she has the Harrison's family. They are caretakers of Bay Farm.

Wren is determined to use this time of separation from her husband, Devlin, to learn how to take this amazing, old stone house and turn it into a home. She will learn how to use all she has been gifted with and make the most of it.

Wren Bay, is also about the people in her life. Like her Aunt Sophia, a milliner who has raised Wren since she was 9. Aunt Sophia may be impractical and dreamy but she is a savvy business woman, who lives her life on her terms. Also there is Madam Mimi, Aunt Sophia's French cook. Who came to America after losing her beloved husband, Benard. She has given Wren the joy taking perfect ingredients and making heaven out of it. As Madam Mimi says, "One should never cook like a chef but understand and have the same skills as one." There is the Harrison family who have always been caretakers of Bay Farm. Mrs. Harrison, Mary, is very unsure of Wren and her harebrained (creative) ideas. Wren is trying to find her space in this new world, to focus on her blessings, not her losses and make her dreams come true, despite Devlin not being with her.

I have been told Wren sounds like my alter ego but I guess you will have to read Wren Bay and tell me what you think. I have someone editing for me (thank you editor xoxox) and fine tuning the story. Hopefully soon, we will have ALL my grammar errors fixed ;-o (Really it is insane for a dyslexic person to try to write a book, what am I thinking???) Soon I will ask your opinion on the cover and share more (there is soo much more). I am off to take more photos. Thank you for letting me share  xoxox