A perfect Autumn day, a Victoria sponge cake, a beautiful book and a garden filled with inspiring women was the perfect way to enjoy a Saturday afternoon. My lovely friend Jane Grover hosted an afternoon tea in her front yard for Michelle Crawford the lady behind the blog Hugo and Elsa. We sipped organic tea and nibbled on lots of delicious baked goodies from Michelle’s new book A Table In The Orchard. My favourites were the chocolate wheaty biscuits with a hint of saltiness and the sponge cake filled with cream and homemade apricot jam – oh my Tasmanian produce is truly heaven on earth. I can see why they packed up ten years ago leaving the hustle and bustle of urban Sydney to buy an old farmhouse in the pretty Houn Valley.
We listened to stories of how Michelle and her husband searched for their farmhouse, her love of baking and her dream of writing a book. She is warm, encouraging, humble and seriously happy with her tree change. Jane read an excerpt from her book which is delightful, entertaining and filled with the beauty and excitement of rural life. The book is full of beautiful photos all styled and shot by the author.
Styling for the afternoon was done by the creative Silvia from The Lost and Found Department she came armed with props, bunting and all sorts of prettiness. A retail shop which I have heard so much about through the whisperings of Sydney’s stylists and those in the know. Her instagram feed is such a tease with snippets of the stores offerings. I need to make a trip to this beautiful space after all it is only a 15 minute drive from my house – I really have no excuses except time and budget. A little treat is ok, right?
A big thank you to Jane who shared her home, hospitality and always lots of smiles and laughs. This lady is a superwoman. A chef, mum, author and business woman. In 2012 she self published her book Naked Food, is an advocate for eating organic produce, sustainably and knowing where are food comes from. You rock Jane! I am blessed to have such an inspirational and encouraging ‘big sister’ in my life. You have been generous with your time and sharing your faith journey with me. Jane Grover provides entertaining and educational live cooking shows to small and large audiences. Your audience will be delighted by Jane’s sense of humour and down to earth presentation style. Her cookbook is in it’s second print run so don’t miss out – you can purchase it online here with free shipping Australia wide. Filled with great photos and healthy wholesome recipes that the family will love.
So grateful to have shared the afternoon catching up with familiar faces and making new friends. A Table In The Orchard is the perfect gift for mum, your granny or anyone who loves food and has a dream. Who says that we can’t follow our dreams? Most of the time the greatest barrier to following our dreams is our own self doubt, insecurities, the unknown and change. Be brave and enjoy the adventure like the Crawford’s did. Anything is possible you just need to make a decision and keep on tracking.
Now, for a little bit of me time…..I have a good book calling my name.
In All Things Beautiful,
Lyn xx