Portals & Potions Newsletter

Greetings from Enchanted Springs, Florida!

Today I'm packing and finishing a few pages to share at the Killer Nashville writers conference this week. I leave Wednesday, and I can't wait! I think it's going to be a great adventure.

Luckily, Clara Montgomery, owner of the Enchanted Oven bakery, offered to write this week's newsletter, so I can focus on finalizing all my preparations for the trip. Read on for her hometown happenings.

-- Cielle

Clara's Chatter: An Update from Enchanted Springs

Hello, dear friends and fellow Enchanted Springs enthusiasts,

Clara Montgomery here, bringing you the freshest tidbits, hot from the oven at the Enchanted Oven bakery. Pour yourself a cup of tea, grab a cookie, and let's catch up on the latest happenings in our magical town!

🎓 Back to School Delights

Here in Enchanted Springs, summer vacation has officially come to an end. Today marked the first day of classes for the 2023-24 school year. Our town's young scholars were filled with both excitement and nerves, but worry not! All children are welcome to stop by the Enchanted Oven after school for a free cookie. A little sweetness to celebrate the new school year!

🧙‍♀️ Marley Montgomery's Antique Adventures

My granddaughter Marley has been quite the busy bee at the Enchanted Antique Shop. Just last week, I overheard some customers whispering about a mysterious artifact that's recently come into her possession. What secrets might it hold? I'm sure Marley will figure it out, and I can't wait to hear all about it!

📚 Sadie Arragon's Historical Pursuits

Speaking of secrets, Sadie Arragon, Marley's friend and the history professor at Magnolia University, has been spotted delving into some old town archives. Rumor has it she's on the brink of a discovery that could shed light on Enchanted Springs' hidden past. A thrilling tale indeed!

👵 Eleanor's Antique Wisdom & Bingo Triumph

My dear friend Eleanor Somerville, the previous owner of the Enchanted Antique Shop, has been as lively as ever. Between sips of her favorite Earl Grey tea, she shared the exciting news of her big bingo win at the Auxiliary last Friday. It was a nail-biting game that went down to the wire, and with an air of grace and a touch of luck, Eleanor claimed victory and a $20 jackpot! Needless to say, Eleanor's winning spirit continues to light up our magical town.

🍰 Kate's Baking Mastery

I mustn't forget my talented assistant, Kate Davis, who has been experimenting with some delightful new pastry creations, including a vegan banana cream cupcake. Her inventive flavors and designs have been the talk of the town. Be on the lookout for some new treats coming soon!

🍪 Chocolate-Orange Cookie Magic

Last but not least, I'm thrilled to share my recipe for chocolate-orange cookies, a delightful blend of zesty citrus and rich chocolate. You can find the recipe attached to this newsletter. Give them a try, and let me know what you think!

That's all for this week, dear friends. It's always a pleasure to share the happenings of our enchanted town with you. Stay curious, stay kind, and remember, the Enchanted Oven is always here to welcome you with open arms and fresh-baked delights.

With warmest regards,
Clara Montgomery
The Enchanted Oven Bakery

PS: Click here for my Chocolate-Orange Cookie Recipe 🍪