Janice Hanna's Blog

Sundays have always carried a special kind of rhythm. A time to rest. A time to refocus. A time to savor what really matters. Let’s lean into Sundays this fall, y’all!

The Comfort of Family & Faith

There’s something about Sundays in the fall that make me want to slow down. Maybe it’s coming home from church to a quiet house. Maybe it’s gathering family and friends around the table, (though, full disclosure, my family members are more likely to eat out on a Sunday because it’s easier).

Scripture reminds us: “They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts” (Acts 2:46). Sharing food isn’t just about filling our bellies—it’s about filling our hearts. And no matter where you eat, it’s fun to spend time with friends and family around the table.

Aunt Rosa’s Famous Gravy

In my Weddings by Bella series, Aunt Rosa is never far from her stove on a Sunday afternoon. Her Italian Sunday Gravy is a symbol of family, tradition, and faith in action. You can almost smell the tomatoes, garlic, and herbs as the sauce simmers slowly—warm and comforting, just like Aunt Rosa herself.

That’s what inspired me to bring her dish to life in my kitchen and share it with you.

What Makes It Special?It’s slow food. The kind you can’t rush, just like relationships and family moments.It’s cozy food. Perfect for a fall Sunday when the world outside feels crisp and cool.It’s shared food. This recipe makes enough for a crowd, because love multiplies at the table.Aunt Rosa’s Italian Sunday Gravy Recipe Yield: 10 Traditional Sunday Gravy Print

This traditional Italian-American Sunday Gravy is a rich, slow-simmered tomato sauce made with ground beef and sausage links. Perfect over pasta, it’s hearty, flavorful, and tastes like it cooked all day.

Prep Time 15 minutes Cook Time 3 hours Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes Ingredients * 2 tbsp olive oil * 4–6 Italian sausage links (sweet, hot, or a mix) * 1 lb ground beef * 1 large yellow onion, diced * 4 cloves garlic, minced * 2 tbsp tomato paste * 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled or crushed tomatoes (San Marzano if possible) * 1 can (28 oz) tomato purée or additional crushed tomatoes * 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity) * 2 tsp dried oregano * 2 tsp dried basil * ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) * 1–2 cups chicken or beef broth (to thin sauce as needed) * 1 Parmesan rind (optional, for extra richness) * Salt & pepper, to taste * Fresh basil, for finishing Instructions

How to Make Sunday Gravy
This is a process, but so worth the time, friends. Like Rosa, you must have patience. I promise it will be worth it in the end!
1. Brown the meats
* Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Brown sausage links until golden on all sides, 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
* Add ground beef and cook until well browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
2. Sauté aromatics
* In the same pot, add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute, just until fragrant.
* Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
3. Build the sauce
* Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato purée, sugar (if using), oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and a good pinch of salt and pepper.
* Add broth as needed for your preferred consistency.
4. Simmer with meats
* Return sausage and ground beef to the pot.
* Add Parmesan rind (if using).
* Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and cook for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if sauce gets too thick.
5. Finish & serve
* Before serving, stir in a handful of torn fresh basil.
* Serve sauce over pasta (spaghetti, rigatoni, or ziti) with extra Parmesan.
* Plate sausages on the side or slice into chunks to serve right in the sauce.

Nutrition Information: Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 343Trans Fat: 22gCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 17g Did you make this recipe?

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© Janice Thompson Cuisine: Italian / Category: Main Dishes Cozy Up with a Book

If you want to step deeper into Aunt Rosa’s world, you’ll find her bustling around the kitchen in the Weddings by Bella books. Her gravy isn’t just a dish—it’s a character in its own right, woven into the story of family, love, and a few laugh-out-loud moments along the way.

Explore the Weddings by Bella Series

A Sunday Invitation

Friend, I don’t know what your Sundays look like. Maybe they’re busy. Maybe they’re quiet. But I hope you’ll find a way to slow down, gather with people you love, and savor something warm from the stove.

Aunt Rosa’s Sunday Gravy is more than a recipe—it’s a reminder that God calls us to fellowship, to rest, and to joyfully share life together.

Much love!

Janice

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Discover the beauty of slowing down this fall. Join author and baker Janice Thompson as she reflects on autumn memories, faith, cozy recipes, and the reminder to savor each season.

When Life Feels Like It’s Always Go-Go-Go

I’ll admit it—I’m a go-getter. I’m always working, writing, baking, cooking…sometimes round the clock. Life can feel like one long to-do list. And here in South Texas, the weather doesn’t exactly scream “slow down.” When it’s still 90 degrees outside, it hardly feels like fall at all.

Remembering Autumn in East Tennessee

My heart always pulls me back to my college days in East Tennessee. I can close my eyes and still see the sun beaming through those red, orange, and golden leaves on the campus of Milligan College.

October had a way of drawing me in—like a gentle melody I couldn’t help but hum. (Ever get a song stuck in your head? Yeah, it’s like that.) Those memories remind me what fall is supposed to feel like. And even though the temperatures don’t match here in Texas, the feelings of autumn remain, especially as we roll into October.

The Call to Slow Down

If I’m honest, slowing down doesn’t come naturally to me. As an author and a baker, I’m always pushing forward, creating, planning the next thing. Maybe you can relate? But autumn whispers a different invitation: breathe the air, notice the beauty, enjoy the season instead of fighting against it.

I believe God calls us to this rhythm. Scripture reminds us: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). This fall season is a special gift from our Heavenly Father, a present He hopes we’ll unwrap and enjoy.

Finding Rest in Simple Things

For me, slowing down means:

Curling up with a good book, like one of my cozy mysteries.Simmering a pot of Sunday Gravy or a cozy soup or stew on the stove.Baking pumpkin bread or apple crisp and letting the aroma fill the house.Taking a moment to be still and thank God for the blessings of the season through one of my devotions.An Invitation to You

Friend, maybe you’re wired like me—always running, always working, always chasing the next thing. If so, I want to invite you to pause this October. Make space for what matters most. Light a candle, savor a favorite recipe, open a devotional or a novel, and breathe deeply.

Autumn won’t last forever, but the memories you make in these slower, sweeter moments will stay with you.

May God bless you all richly this lovely October!

Much love,

Janice

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Bake a golden, bakery-style Italian loaf right at home! This quick and easy crusty bread recipe delivers a crisp exterior and soft, chewy interior—perfect for pasta night or sandwiches.

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. And, if you’ve read my Weddings by Bella series, you know that Bella’s Aunt Rosa is keen on delicious breads, especially her Garlic Knots.

Today I’m sharing a simple recipe for homemade crusty Italian bread that tastes like it came straight from the bakery. I promise, even Aunt Rosa would approve! And, unlike the Garlic Knots, this is a basic bread without that garlic addition.

With just a few pantry staples and a little patience, you’ll have a golden loaf with a crisp crust and delicious, chewy center—perfect for serving with pasta, soups, or just a slather of butter.

What Makes it Italian Bread?

You might wonder what makes this “Italian” bread if there aren’t any herbs or cheeses mixed in. The answer is in its texture and baking style.

Italian breads are known for their crisp, rustic crusts and soft, chewy interiors—perfect for tearing and dipping into olive oil or serving alongside pasta dishes.

This recipe mimics the simple bakery-style loaves you’d find in Italy, made with just flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. It’s a back-to-basics bread that celebrates the Italian tradition of keeping things simple, rustic, and delicious.

What are we waiting for? Let’s bake up a delicious Italian Crusty Loaf.

Italian Crusty Loaf Ingredients

If you jump to the end of this post you’ll find a recipe card you can print up. These are such simple ingredients! I’m guessing you already have most in your kitchen.

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F)1 teaspoon sugar3 ½ cups all-purpose flour1 1/2 teaspoon salt2 teaspoons olive oil

Note: Rapid-rise yeast is fine.

How to Make Italian Crusty Loaf

I’ve been on a roll making sourdough lately, and it’s a long (and somewhat complicated) process. I don’t mind admitting I breathed a sigh of relief when I stumbled across this recipe at The Food Journal. A bread that could be mixed and baked in just an hour or two? I was thrilled.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add olive oil, salt, and 3 ½ cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Add more flour, a little at a time, if needed.

Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough may look a bit rough at first but will come together as you knead.

Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf
Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake the Bread
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). For a crisp crust, place a shallow pan of hot water on the bottom rack of your oven. Slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.

Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Transfer to a wire rack and let cool before slicing.

Serving SuggestionServe warm with butter or olive oil and balsamic vinegar.Pair with spaghetti or lasagna for an authentic Italian touch.Use leftovers for sandwiches or garlic bread.How to Store Crusty Italian Bread

Homemade bread is best enjoyed the day it’s baked, but you can store your loaf to keep it fresh longer:

Reheating Tip: To bring back the crusty texture, spritz the loaf lightly with water and warm it in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes before serving.

Room Temperature: Wrap the cooled loaf in a clean kitchen towel or place it in a paper bag. This keeps the crust crisp while preventing it from drying out. Avoid plastic bags, which can make the crust soft. Use within 2–3 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the bread, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven.

Suggested Add-Ins for Italian Bread

This rustic Italian bread is delicious on its own, but you can easily customize it with fun mix-ins. Try one of these for extra flavor:

Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano, or basil kneaded into the dough.Cheese: Shredded Parmesan, mozzarella, or asiago for a cheesy twist.Garlic: Roasted garlic cloves folded in for a savory, aromatic loaf.Olives: Chopped green or black olives for a Mediterranean flair.Seeds: Sesame seeds or poppy seeds sprinkled on top before baking.Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds a chewy, tangy bite to every slice.

Each variation transforms this simple bread into something special, perfect for serving at gatherings or alongside an Italian-inspired meal.

Other Breads You Might Enjoy

If you like this recipe, you’re bound to love the following breads from my Out of the Box Baking site. (Like I said, I’ve been on quite the roll baking up sourdough!)

Same Day Sourdough (with yeast): I call this my cheater’s sourdough, but I (personally) love both the taste and the texture. It’s not as chewy as traditional sourdough, but that’s one of the things I love about it. Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread: If you’re addicted to the brown bread at Cheesecake Factory, have I got a treat for you! This one is equally as delicious and can be made in your very own kitchen. Dave’s Killer Bread Recipe: If you love a textured bread, this one is going to make you swoon! Easy Challah Bread from Scratch: Simple. Delicious. And so, so perfect, any time of year!

That’s it for this post! Thanks for swinging by Storybook Kitchen! Before you go, why not pin some photos to your Pinterest boards?

About the Author

Janice Thompson is the author and baker! She loves her time in the kitchen almost as much as she enjoys penning comedic tales for her readers to enjoy.

Crusty Italian Loaf Print

Bake a golden, bakery-style Italian loaf right at home! This quick and easy crusty bread recipe delivers a crisp exterior and soft, chewy interior—perfect for pasta night or sandwiches.

Prep Time 15 minutes Cook Time 30 minutes Additional Time 1 hour 30 minutes Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes Ingredients 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F) 1 teaspoon sugar 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons olive oil Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add olive oil, salt, and 3 ½ cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Add more flour, a little at a time, if needed.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough may look a bit rough at first but will come together as you knead.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Loaf
Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Score and Bake the Bread

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife (either one long cut or several diagonal ones) and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Transfer to a wire rack and let cool before slicing.

Nutrition Information: Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 142Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 266mgCarbohydrates: 28gFiber: 1gSugar: 0gProtein: 4g Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Facebook

© Janice Thompson Cuisine: Italian / Category: Breads

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I had the privilege of speaking at one of our church’s mom’s groups this morning. As we went around the room, each person telling how they came to the church, one of the moms mentioned that she was happy to find a church that doesn’t shy away from biblical truth in these trying times.

I’ve been thinking about that…a lot.

I know a lot of pastors are worried about sharing what the Bible says about “controversial” issues, fearing they will lose members. And yet, here was a woman who had decided to bring her whole family to the church (at least in part) because of the church’s stance on truth.

Which is interesting because we’re not a “political” church. If/when issues are discussed, they are always handled with love, courtesy, and very, very carefully. But they are discussed. Thank God. And people aren’t leaving. They’re coming. In droves.

I was blessed to have lunch with the pastors of my old/home church (Lindale Church) this week. We ran into each other at Chicken Salad Chick and had the sweetest impromptu lunch. They shared a story of a man who was radically saved a couple weeks ago. I wasn’t surprised. The altars at that church are full every Sunday. Lives are being changed. People are coming to Christ and giving up all sorts of addictions and sins. Transformations are taking place.

In other words, the truth is setting them free.

The problem with the “just love them” approach to Christianity is empty altars. Unchanged lives.

Sure, people walk away from Sunday morning service smiling and feeling validated, but they’re not necessarily walking into an eternity with Christ. They’re not witnessing the power of transformation.

The truth of God’s Word has the power–yes, POWER–to radically change lives. WHY would we want to swap that out with sappy love-chat messages that don’t have the power to bring radical transformation?

I don’t know where you worship, but my prayer is that church leaders begin to see that they can’t straddle the fence anymore. Either they speak truth (and risk losing congregants as a result) or they fall.

And they WILL fall.

Hard.

Because the enemy is coming in like a flood, and the body of Christ has to have a backbone to fight. That backbone is built at the altar, when confession gives way to transformation, which morphs into spiritual strength.

If I’m reading the scriptures correctly, the church has a HUGE role to play in the end times. So I, personally, want to be in a healthy church where altars are full and lives are transformed. Together, we will be unstoppable!

The post The Truth will Set You Free appeared first on Janice Thompson, Author.

I was born with an overactive funny bone. If you’ve read my Weddings by Bella series, you know that I like to add as much wacky humor to my comedic tales as possible. Keeping my readers giggling is front and center in my ministry. 

How then, did I end up writing an overly serious novel about the sinking of the Titanic? Trust me, I fought the idea, convinced it would never work. Though I’d written nearly eighty novels at the time, I wasn’t sure I could pull off a story with the necessary depth and emotional pull. In fact, the day my agent called to ask if I would consider the idea, my knee-jerk response was a typical Janice-ala-humor-writer quip: “Only if I can throw in a song and dance number involving an iceberg.” 

When he responded with, “Nope. We have to play this one straight,” I gracefully declined. Well, I might’ve said, “I’ll think about it.” Strangely, that’s exactly what happened. I thought about it. And thought about it. And thought about it some more. For about five or six hours, I could focus on little else. My heart said, “Go for it!” but my logic/mind said, “No way! Are you nuts?” Strangely, in the middle of pondering the what-ifs, a story idea came. An intriguing, compelling story idea, complete with a title I loved: Queen of the Waves. Who knew? 

Still, I had to face my denial head-on. Could I really numb my funny bone long enough to pen 90,000 serious words? I wrote a sample chapter, just to check. Weirdly, I liked it. A lot. In fact, it tugged at my heart and gave me reason to hope as never before. So I wrote a second chapter. I liked it, too. . .so much that I decided to put together a proposal. My agent shopped it around and Summerside/Guideposts bought the story at the 2011 ACFW conference in St. Louis. I could hardly believe it! Of course, this meant that I had to actually write the book. With my heart in my throat, I set out to do just that. . .and ended up loving the story!

So many amazing things happened while writing Queen of the Waves. It would be impossible to cover all of them in one post. Above all, I learned that stepping outside of my comfort zone, while scary, proved to be an amazing experience. No longer “Queen of Denial,” I’m now truly convinced that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.  Queen of the Waves exists because I dared to lay down my denial, my insecurities and my doubts, and trust the Maker of the Waves. 

The post From “Queen of Denial” to Queen of the Waves appeared first on Janice Thompson, Author.

Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block?
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series.

Some stories are written out of a passion for the characters. Others are written out of an idea for a unique and engaging plot. And some—like the first book in the Little Red Truck Mystery Series, (Tracking Tilly)—are written out of pure love and devotion for a location. 

We writers love to set our books in unique places. And because I’m a Texas gal, I usually set my stories in South Texas, often along the Gulf Coast. This time, however, I wanted to take a trek a little farther north, to the town of Mabank Texas. 

Don’t know where Mabank is? No worries! It’s right next to Gunbarrel City, which is nestled next to Cedar Creek Reservoir, a gorgeous body of water that provides excellent fishing, boating, and camping. This neck of the woods is known as East Texas territory, and it’s unique from where I live in the Houston area—both in terrain and culture. 

My familiarity with this region goes back to the early 1980s, when my mother remarried and moved to a 63-acre ranch with my step-dad. Though I hailed from Texas, I’d never been to this particular region.

Turns out, I’d been missing out on a lot! Picture beautiful ranch-lands, perfect for raising horses, cows, goats, and chickens. Now imagine small-town churches, restaurants, and specialty shops. Add to that the beauty of a fabulous lake, one dotted with fishing boats, kayaks, and swimmer. Talk about beautiful. . .and perfect for a book series filled with the unexpected twists and turns found in most cozy mysteries. 

As I mentioned above, Tracking Tilly is the first in a three-book series from Barbour called The Little Red Truck series. I used the ranch as the setting for my main character (RaeLyn Hadley) to live. And boy, does the story ever explore those beautiful Texas backdrops, all through her eyes! Tracking Tilly is set in the springtime, when bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrushes are in full bloom. I didn’t even have to research to know what those look like! 

I loved setting this fun cozy mystery in mama’s hometown, and not just for nostalgic reasons. Sure, a quaint small town and a rustic 63-acre ranch provide the perfect backdrop for a mystery, but even more than that, I loved getting to know RaeLyn and her family. Plunking them down in my mama’s house allowed me to re-visit the location in my own imagination and to envision how RaeLyn would see it. 

A Bittersweet Story

My mom passed away in 2017 and I rarely get back to Mabank and Gunbarrel City these days. But once I decided to set Tracking Tilly in this area I knew I had to make one more trip. So, I asked a close friend to join me and we made a day trip out of it. Over the river and through the woods, to my mama’s old house we went. 

And while we were there, we drove by her church (First Baptist, Mabank). Oh, and we had to stop off at one of her favorite restaurants. Mostly, though, I wanted to see the lake. As I got out of my car at the water’s edge I was flooded with memories of driving over that lake on my way to visit mom when my kids were little. We spent nearly every holiday on that beautiful property. 

As you read Tracking Tilly, I hope you find yourself captivated by the setting, but I also hope you see a little of yourself in RaeLyn. She’s an adventurous, inquisitive gal, loaded with zeal for life and a passion for her family. More than anything, I hope you discover a renewed sense of purpose in your own family’s story. 

Thanks for reading, y’all! 

You can find me at: 

Facebook: JaniceHannaThompson (https://www.facebook.com/jhannathompson)Instagram: JaniceThompsonAuthorBaker (https://www.instagram.com/janicethompsonauthorbaker/)TikTok: JaniceHannaThompson: (https://www.tiktok.com/@janicehannathompson)

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“It’s always tea-time!” – Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

If you love bringing your favorite books to life through themed literary parties, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for this Mad Hatter Tea Party inspired by Alice in Wonderland.

Whether you’re planning a gathering for fellow book lovers (always a great idea!), a birthday celebration, or a literary club event, this over-the-top tea party is sure to delight guests of all ages.

In this post, you’ll find:

Decor ideas that scream WonderlandDIY crafts for your guestsParty games filled with whimsyAnd, of course, links to my Wonderland-themed cupcakes and cookies over on Out of the Box Baking!

Let’s tumble down the rabbit hole, shall we?

Set the Scene: Mad Hatter Tea Party Decor Ideas

Bold. Quirky. Mismatched. That’s the name of the game when designing a Mad Hatter–themed party. Here are some easy decor ideas to transport your guests into Wonderland:

Mismatched Teacups & Saucers: Borrow, thrift, or mix and match your prettiest (or silliest) tea sets.Stacked Teacup Centerpieces: Use hot glue or museum putty to stack teacups, saucers, and teapots. Fill them with flowers or feathers!Clock Motifs: Hang clock faces on walls or scatter mini clocks on tables.Signs & Sayings: Add chalkboard arrows that say “This Way,” “That Way,” or “Wrong Way.” Bonus points for a “We’re All Mad Here” sign!

TIP: You can create a magical photo booth backdrop using old book pages, teacup cutouts, and a string of fairy lights!

Make It Crafty: DIY Mini Top Hats

Want a fun activity and a take-home favor? Let your guests design their own Mad Hatter mini top hats!

Supplies:

Cardstock or cardboard (like cereal boxes)Hot glue gun or tacky glueScissors and ribbonButtons, feathers, glitter, and faux flowers

Provide a printed template or simple instructions (I can help you create one!). Turn this into a contest with categories like:

Most CreativeSilliest HatMost Likely to Be Worn at Buckingham PalacePlay the Part: Wonderland-Inspired Party Games

No Wonderland gathering is complete without a bit of nonsense and mischief. Here are three games your guests will adore:

1. Tea Tray Memory Game

Place 12–15 themed objects (a spoon, a teacup, a fake rose, etc.) on a tray. Let guests look for 30 seconds, then cover the tray and have them list what they remember.

2. Mad Hatter Hat Toss

Decorate a large top hat (or create one from cardboard) and toss mini bean bags or ping pong balls into it for points.

3. “Who Said It?” Literary Quote Game

Mix famous Alice in Wonderland quotes with lines from other classic novels. Can your guests guess who said what?

Optional: Provide mini prizes like teacup bookmarks, tiny jars labeled “Drink Me,” or chocolate roses.

Eat Me! Wonderland-Themed Treats

Even the Queen of Hearts would swoon over these tea party desserts!

I featured these on my baking blog, Out of the Box Baking, but they’re perfect for this party, too:

Adorable Alice-Themed Cupcakes – topped with fondant tags or piped lettering

Hand-Painted Sugar Cookies – sugar cookies with royal icing Roman numerals

Find all of my Alice in Wonderland cupcake and cookies ideas right here!

You can also label your food with fun themed signs: “Drink Me” tags for beverages, “Tweedle Dee Delights” for finger sandwiches, and “Queen’s Tarts” for fruit pastries.

Create a Whimsical Photo Booth

Design a photo corner where guests can pose with props like:

Cardboard teacupsFaux mustaches on sticksTop hats and bunny ears“Off with their heads!” speech bubbles

Use a thrifted armchair or hanging floral curtain for a magical backdrop.

Free Printable: Mad Hatter Tea Party Checklist

Want to make setup easy? I’ve created a printable party checklist that includes:

Supplies list (decor, craft items, game pieces)Suggested menuTo-do list (timeline)Blank space for guest list and RSVP notes

[Download your printable party checklist here.]

Final Thoughts from the Author

As a longtime lover of both baking and storytelling, I find such joy in combining the two through themed parties like this one. A Mad Hatter tea party is the perfect opportunity to let your imagination run wild while celebrating literature and laughter.

Looking for more literary party ideas? Be sure to explore the other parties on my blog—and don’t forget to visit Out of the Box Baking for even more bookish bakes.

Until next time, “Don’t be late for tea!”

The post Host a Mad Hatter Tea Party: A Whimsical Literary Gathering appeared first on Janice Thompson, Author.

For years now, I’ve been in the dog rescue business. I’ve fostered close to 50 dogs—some from the local shelter, some from an amazing dog rescue organization called Mustard Seed Farm, and some directly from the streets of Houston. 

A couple years back, (just before I set out to write Every Dog Has His Day) I was given a tiny red dachshund to foster.

Now, if you know anything about me at all, you know that I’m head-over-heels in love with dachshunds, especially red ones. I had a female red dachshund named Sasha who lived with me for 15 years. She passed away in 2017, just after my mom died. 

So, when this new tiny red doxie came to stay at my house a few years later, I somehow knew she would always be mine. I gave her the name Ginger because of her color. (Interesting irony: I’m allergic to ginger. Can’t touch the stuff!) 

I love this little girl. She’s an absolute doll. Okay, she’s naughty as can be, but she’s a doll. 

How Ginger Became a Character. . .

When I got ready to write Every Dog Has His Day, I decided to include Ginger as part of the story. Trust me when I say the real Ginger is a runner, just like the fictionalized one! If I opened the front door, she would run right out. And, just like the dog in the book, she probably wouldn’t come back. 

Our Ginger doesn’t have a white patch on her paw. (Most doxies, other than dapples, are solid color.) But I needed to give my fictional Ginger a distinguishing mark so that the two characters (her rescuer and her owner) could end up squabbling over her. 

As is the case in most of my stories, my characters end up romantically involved. Hey, dogs aren’t just great companions; they’re wonderful matchmakers, too! As of yet, the real Ginger hasn’t brought a love interest into my life. (Here’s hoping!) 

I hope you enjoy Every Dog Has His Day. As you read about that tiny mischievous doxie, just know that she’s a very real little dog—one who climbed up on my kitchen island just yesterday and got into some carefully-wrapped treats I’d made for the grandkids. 

Sometimes life really is stranger than fiction!

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Travel with me to East Texas to celebrate the 4th of July. Let’s meet at Cedar Creek Lake, a vast expanse of water tucked in and around some of the sweetest little Texas towns you’ve ever seen: Gun Barrel City, Mabank, Payne Springs, Eustace, and Seven Points, just to name a few.  

Along the edge of the lake you’ll find 320 miles of idyllic shoreline, dotted with homes, campsites, and cabins for rent. And right there, on the prettiest patch of land imaginable, you’ll discover a newly renovated vacation home, recently purchased by a local gal named Tasha. Her quaint fixer-upper is just about ready for its first guests and she’s giddy with excitement. 

Also thrilled is Tasha’s BFF, RaeLyn Hadley! RaeLyn has grown up near the lake and loves this place. She can hardly wait to see her bestie’s dream come true. 

Dreams Come True Are at the Heart of my Stories…

Of course, not everyone in the Cedar Creek area is happy to see Tasha’s new vacation rental open for business. Behind the scenes, evil lurks. Nefarious plans are already in motion, though RaeLyn and Tasha can’t yet see them. 

Days before the house is listed, the beautiful home is vandalized! Clearly, someone wants to stop Tasha in her tracks. But, who would sabotage the inn. . .and why? RaeLyn won’t quit until she’s got answers, but she needs your help. 

What role will you play in this tale?

Visit the inn. Get to know the gals. Help them figure out the whodunit. Spend time in town with the locals, celebrating the 4th of July. I promise, you’ll have a blast. There are quilt shows, cupcake walks, and more Texas BBQ than you can eat in one visit. 

Your belly will never be empty as you set out to help RaeLyn and Tasha solve this crime. Just don’t let all of those handsome Texas fellas distract you from the task at hand. They have a tendency to do that. 

Hang on for the ride, folks, because an East Texas tale is one that’s always filled with twists and turns! So, what are you waiting for? Jump into that little red truck and let’s hit the road, headed to Cedar Creek Lake! 

Learn more:

Get the book at AmazonVisit my baking blog: https://outoftheboxbaking.comFind me on Facebook: JaniceHannaThompsonFollow me on Instagram: janicethompsonauthorbaker Visit my Amazon Author Page: Janice Thompson, authorCheck out the Whole Series

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Bake Snoop Dogg’s viral Rolls Royce Cookies with a Hollywood twist! Decadent, rich, and perfect for a cozy night in with a good book.

Hollywood Meets the Kitchen

Hollywood has always been about indulgence, and sometimes that luxury extends right into the kitchen. In my Backstage Pass book series, readers get a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of celebrities—the glitz, the drama, and the secrets.

When I discovered Snoop Dogg’s now-viral “Rolls Royce Cookies,” I knew they belonged on my blog. These cookies are rich, decadent, and layered with flavor, worthy of their glamorous name. Think of them as the ultimate Hollywood treat—crispy edges, soft centers, and a star-quality taste.

The Story Behind the Cookies

The Rolls Royce Cookies shot to fame after appearing in Snoop Dogg’s cookbook From Crook to Cook. What sets them apart is one unexpected twist: a little peanut butter in the dough.

Don’t worry—this isn’t a peanut butter cookie in disguise. (I promise! Though, you do need to avoid them if you’re allergic to peanuts.) Instead, the peanut butter enhances the chocolate chip classic, making it richer, softer, and just a bit fancier…like swapping a sedan for a luxury ride. (Hey, this is Snoop Dogg, after all.)

A Hollywood Tie-In

I couldn’t help but imagine these cookies backstage at one of my fictional concerts in Backstage Pass. I can see one of the stars grabbing a cookie between film session and a red carpet interview, or a cameraman sneaking a few just before filming begins.

Just like my characters in this series, these cookies have layers: crisp, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth—each bite telling its own story.

Rolls Royce Cookie Ingredients (makes about 36 cookies)

If you jump down to the bottom of the post you’ll find a recipe card with all of the details. This is just a sneak peek. (Get it? Sneak peek? Like Hollywood flicks?!)

1½ cups (210 g) all-purpose flour1 teaspoon baking soda½ teaspoon salt2 sticks (16 Tbsp, ≈220 g) unsalted butter, room temperature½ cup (≈130 g) creamy peanut butter½ cup (≈100 g) packed light brown sugar½ cup (≈100 g) granulated sugar1 large egg1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract2 cups (≈360 g) semisweet chocolate chips or morselsHow to Make Rolls Royce Cookies

These come together so easily! I can see why they’re a fan favorite! Here’s how you’re going to make them. (Refer to the photos below for more details.)

Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Position one rack in the upper third and one in the lower third. Line two baking sheets with parchment paperWhisk together flour, baking soda, and salt In a separate bowl, cream butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smoothBeat in the egg and vanilla until combined Gradually mix in the dry ingredients just until combined. Fold in chocolate chips Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto sheets, spacing ~2 inches apartBake 8–10 minutes until golden. Halfway through, switch sheets from top to bottom and rotate front to back for even bakingLet cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Baking Tips for the SpotlightWeigh your ingredients: Accuracy matters when you’re aiming for perfection.Try a sprinkle of flaky sea salt: It gives a Hollywood-worthy finish.Add your own twist: Peanut butter chips, dark chocolate chunks, or even a drizzle of ganache make these cookies paparazzi-ready.

What to Expect

Before I baked these, I thought, “Oh, this is going to be like my peanut butter cookies, but with chocolate chips thrown in.” I was wrong! Very, very wrong.

This is a rich chocolate chip cookie. The small amount of peanut butter just amps up the flavor of the chocolate and gives the cookies a lovely almost gooey texture.

Maybe I fell so in love with these because they were easy. (They are!) Or, maybe they held such appeal because I’m on a diet and I’m not supposed to be eating sugar. Regardless, I can say without any hesitation whatsoever that these are among the best cookies I’ve baked (and I’ve baked a lot of cookies over the years!)

Other Cookies to Enjoy

If you liked these cookies you’ll love some of my other cookies from my Out of the Box Baking Blog. Here are a few of my personal favorites: 

Ultimate Chocolate Chip: If you love a rich cookie, this is it! This one has browned butter in it and trust me when I say it makes all the difference!

Cut-Out Sugar Cookies: I get more requests for these than any other, especially when they’re hand-painted with my homemade royal icing. (Yum!)

Peanut Butter: I call these my “perfect” peanut butter cookies. . .and they are, y’all!

Oatmeal Raisin: My go-to when I need to feed a crowd! These are delicious and super filling.

Snickerdoodles: Yup, the original! Just like Grandma made!

I Appreciate You Stopping By!

Whether you’re diving into one of my Hollywood romances or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these Rolls Royce Cookies are the perfect co-star. Bake a batch, curl up with a good book, and enjoy a taste of red-carpet indulgence right from your own kitchen.

If you are interested in my Backstage pass series, follow this link to check out the first book in the series, Stars Collide. Here’s a blurb about that book: 

Kat Jennings and Scott Murphy don’t just play two people who are secretly in love on a television sitcom–they are also head over heels for each other in real life. When the lines between reality and TV land blur, they hope they can keep their relationship under wraps. But when Kat’s grandmother, an aging Hollywood starlet with a penchant for wearing elaborate evening gowns from Golden Age movies, mistakes their on-screen wedding proposal for the real deal, things begin to spiral out of their control.

Will their secret be front-page news in the tabloids tomorrow? And can their budding romance survive the onslaught of paparazzi, wedding preparations, and misinformed in-laws? From the sound stage to a Beverly Hills mansion to the gleaming Pacific Ocean, Stars Collide takes readers on a roller-coaster tour of Tinseltown, packing both comedic punch and tender emotion.

Before you go, why not pin some photos to your Pinterest boards?

About the Author (Storybook Kitchen Style)

Janice Thompson is the author of more than 170 books, including the Backstage Pass series set in Hollywood. When she’s not dreaming up stories about life behind the spotlight, she’s in the kitchen whipping up treats worthy of their own star power. Through her blog Storybook Kitchen, Janice blends her two favorite worlds—storytelling and baking—proving that a good book and a warm cookie are always the perfect match.

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