"Legends of the Forest," a lovely music track by Tim Janis, is playing on repeat as I write this and prepare for an afternoon of writing. Last weekend we had lovely Christmas snow—large flakes falling softly for hours—until it mostly melted a day later. Winter is my busiest writing season because I'm cozied up in my quiet space with winter's chill and at least two or three feet of snow covering the landscape outside.
Right now, I think December is trying to be May. And so, I will lose myself in writing a winter-wonderland story and pray for a white Christmas. Or, I will drive in search of it, because gosh darn it, I will have snow on Christmas!
I have. And many times over the years I have come close to telling myself it really and truly is what I want to do. I've poured over listings, weighed the pros and cons, and have even inquired into a few. Then I think of noise and lack of privacy and change my mind. But the idea lingers.
One of my favorite books to read when I get in this mood is Born in Ice, book two of Nora Roberts's Irish Born Trilogy. I get to live vicariously through Brianna Concannon as she plays hostess, spends the day baking, gardening, and enjoying the various and colorful guests who stop off in the quiet Irish countryside for a visit.
What a treat to meet new people and then say farewell a few days later. Of course, not every guest would be a handsome writer, and yet, that is the joy of fiction. It can be whatever we want.
In books, we can live every life we have ever imagined (which is my favorite thing about writing). For those of us who don't have a yen to travel the world over, books transport us to whever we want to be so we can spend time with whomever we want.
Such is the power of words.
And so, whenever I long to be an innkeeper, start a Christmas tree farm, or open an antique shop, I read—or write—a book, and live the life I imagine wanting. The best part is that I carry that life with me always, even as I enjoy the blessings of my real one.
This scrumptious dessert combines the sweet flavors of caramel and apple, creating a mouthwatering combination that is sure to be a hit.
Yes, apple pie is more autumn than Christmas (and the recipe comes from a Fall Baking magazine), but I've never been one to limit a delicious treat to only one season.
The aroma of the baked apples wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to resist taking a bite before it's even cooled.
Whether you're a reader who enjoys curling up with a good book and a slice of pie, or a baker who loves experimenting with new recipes, this caramel apple pie is the perfect treat for you. Its combination of flavors and textures is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Find the recipe in Victoria Classics Fall Baking magazine (Oct 2018). Their periodic baking editions are always filled with wonderful recipes, so you really get your money's worth.
It should be noted that there are two pies because there was too much filling for one, so I used the rest in a mini pie and it worked great!
Featured Book
Christmas in Crooked Creek
Will two hearts find a way to leave the sorrows of war behind and embrace a future in Crooked Creek? Join the women of Crooked Creek in a heartwarming tale of survival, hope, love, and an unexpected miracle.
As the holiday season approaches, Michael and Clara must find the courage to let go of the past, survive the present, and embrace a future neither envisioned.
May you have a wonderful time reading, baking, and enjoying the simple pleasures of the holiday season.
