The busy bees

honey

Mrs Dalloway, Tampopo and me

Next to my bed there is a small bookshelf filled with my favorite books. The more I like them, the closer they are, and my absolute favorites are so close I hardly have to lift my head from the pillow to reach them. One of those favorites is Virginia Woolf’s Mrs Dalloway. I don’t read it very often, but once in a while I get the urge and it’s comforting to know it’s there for me, always. On Monday night, the 26th of May I felt restless and impatient, I was one day overdue (at least) in my pregnancy, I had expected the baby to come earlier, let’s just say I felt a little anxious. So I reached for Mrs Dalloway and she calmed me down. Tuesday was a beautiful sunny and warm summer day. Perhaps inspired by Clarissa Dalloway the first thing I did after I got dressed was to cut roses for the house. I cut some for every room (and we have many rooms) and filled every vase I could find. I wanted everything to be clean and shiny and beautiful. I wasn’t planning to throw a party but Mrs Dalloway had inspired me to act as if I was. Next on my list was the laundry, nothing beats the scent of freshly washed sheets drying in the sun, hanging just high enough so our little puppy, James Joyce, can’t get a hold of them, try as he might. In late afternoon when the kids came home from school I had already baked them a pear tart for goûter and was on my way to making a cherry clafoutis for dessert. Oddur kept encouraging me to take it easy, especially since I was having some contractions but it was as if I had acquired some mystical power and though I sat down from time to time I felt somehow invincible and strong.

beekeeper

orchard1

magret&honey

One of my favorite films about food is a Japanese classic called Tampopo. It’s lighthearted and very funny but most of all it always makes me hungry for noodles. It has a main narrative which is broken up by several little sketches that all have to do with food. One of my favorite little stories is that of a woman who rises from her deathbed to cook her family one final meal. By evening I felt like that woman, not because I expected to die but while the sensible thing would have been to lie down and rest I still felt strong enough to cook one last meal. I chose a family favorite, what we call mafia chicken. An Italian style dish with lots of tomatoes, parmesan and rosemary, served with roast potatoes. I laid the table and went to bed. I gave Oddur instructions to carry out the meal at eight, by then we both knew something was stirring.
They served me some mafia chicken in bed and though he had to defend it with his life my dear husband managed to save me a small piece of cherry clafoutis. We discussed when to leave for the clinic. “I am not staying any longer in a stale room with plastic floors than I need” I said. Oddur sort of agreed, “It’s all up to you, we go when you are ready” he said. He doesn’t like plastic floors either. Just before ten I had a big contraction and said to Oddur “It’s time to go”. The contractions had been regular but not that regular and the experience I had from my previous four children told me we still had ample time. At this point I didn’t really feel that close but I decided to play it safe. Oddur got my suitcase in the car, locked up the dogs and gave instructions to the kids who were all washed and dressed in their pyjamas but couldn’t sleep (adorable looking I might add). While he was doing this something big happened, one more contraction but a serious one and I felt I couldn’t move after that. Oddur insisted, quite firmly, “I’ll carry you to the car”. “I’m not moving, and I mean it” I howled back like a wolf. He had a look on his face that implied that he was considering taking me into the car against my will. Then he thought better of it and called the emergency services who advised against moving me at this stage. Did I say the water broke?
While the doctors and firemen were hurriedly on their way the two of us just brought the baby into this world as naturally and effortlessly as people have been doing for thousands of years in their own homes. For a brief moment I got slightly worried but when he placed that little girl on my chest I knew everything would be fine. Those few precious minutes that followed were pure magic and a privilege to live through them. She was so precious, so perfect, a rosy colored baby that came into the world through a room full of roses. Then the show started. I don’t think my bedroom has ever drawn a bigger crowd, doctors, firemen with heatblankets and endless gadgets, my father-in-law on the road guiding them with a flashlight (one that he bought in case of emergency – he likes to think ahead, a trait I might add that has not been passed on to his son).

We called her Audrey May.

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gaiastairs

mimi&audrey

When the cat is away … the mice cook!

In France a father has to go to the local townhall and declare a baby’s birth. Our little commune has no hospital and therefore hardly any births, perhaps one a year. So the officials are a little rusty when it comes to issuing birth certificates. At the clinic Oddur entertained me with the story of his encounter with an official at the mairie (townhall). The thought of having to deal with a birth was already a big task for her but when she realized that the baby’s surname would, due to Icelandic traditions, be derived from the father’s first name and not his surname, she just threw up her hands and made a lot of oh lah lah’s and ce n’est pas normal!. Calls were made, papers were ruffled, but like our other daughters she finally ended up Oddsdóttir (the daughter of Oddur).
It gave me great joy to learn that while I was at the clinic my husband, with the help of the children, cooked almost exclusively from my new cookbook, “A kitchen in France”. We recently received a mock up/galley of the book and while it’s in black and white it feels great to have it on the shelf, next to all my favorite cookbook authors. They went for all the “manly” dishes in the book. Entrecôte à la Bordelaise, veal liver, à la Bordelaise, rustic potatoes with onion and duck breasts grilled over vine sarments. I am happy to report that they all worked out and to quote Louise (almost) as if mom had cooked them. Every recipe has been tried and tested, every text read and re-read but then, when it’s out of your hands, at the printers, you start to worry if there are any mistakes. According to this random selection, it’s all good.

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garage

bees&honey

The scent of strawberries and honey

My family picked me up at the clinic after a trip to the market on a glorious Saturday morning. Audrey and I had gotten up early and sat in our little outfits by the window at the hospital waiting to see the world. They brought us home in a car perfumed by basil and placed us in that familiar bed with freshly washed (again as you can imagine) sheets and more roses from the garden. I promised to take it easy, I did not. By evening I was cooking up a pepper steak and spinach, hospital food leaves a lot to be desired and all the wonderful dinners they had been having in my absence stirred my food envy.
Audrey is a good baby and, knock on wood, sleeps through the night (elle fait ses nuits as we say here in France). She’s already been to an important meeting regarding our new house and last Friday she had a big outing with her parents and her big sister Gaïa (I can’t believe that little girl, the so-called “our last child ever” is now a big sister). Our first stop was at a honey farm less than a mile from our house. We had often seen a simple sign at the turn of the road that simply read “MIEL” (honey). We had inquired in May about the miel but were told to return in June when the bees had done a bit more work. This honey farm is a little paradise, a handsome stone house, surrounded by forests and meadows with a beautiful manicured rose garden, an orchard and the loveliest cherry trees. Though officially retired the beekeeper, Bernard Seguin and his wife Liliane are every bit as busy as the bees, keeping a garden this pretty requires a lot of work and they say it keeps them young and fit. The honey tastes delicious, a mixture of all the various flowers found in the garden, a bit of acacia, blackthorn, a hint of cherry, a tiny bit of roses, a mix of everything local. It’s a small production and not their livelihood but Bernard says it allows him to meet people and chat and he is a man of many opinions judging from our brief encounter. A former chemist, with a passion for collecting ancient coins and fearless amongst the bees, his favorite band to this day are the Doors, probably he says, because those were his halcyon days. They are a wonderful, interesting couple, Bernard and Liliane, with the most beautiful, thick grey hair. It must be all that honey. We bought a kilo’s worth at the cost of 9 euros, not a penny more not a penny less.
One of my favorite memories of last summer are the moments I spent at the Arnould’s strawberry farm near St. Vivien de Médoc. Strawberries really taste better in the moments after they are picked, and no matter how fresh you get them at the market, a tiny bit of flavor will already be lost. I had breastfed Hudson as an infant at Strawberry Fields in Central Park, now I would take Audrey to a real strawberry field, with actual strawberries. When we arrived the clouds were winning their battle with the sun, it was still hot but the breeze was gathering force. Caroline was delighted to hold Audrey while Gaïa and I picked a handful of strawberries before it was time to pick up the big kids from school.
It may be a far-fetched thought, and Audrey is certainly still very little. But a part of me believes that one day she’ll be standing in a field of strawberries, the wind blowing in her hair and filling her nose with the sweet scent of fresh strawberries and she will think “I don’t know why, but this feels strangely familiar”. The seeds of her first déjà-vu are already in place.

You are never too young to pick strawberries.

ps: The Arnould family have 4 gîtes located in St Vivien de Médoc (basic fully-equipped rooms with kitchen/pool/max 6 people) and there are still availabilties  in July. The prices range between 390-490€ for the whole week! Click here for more information.

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orchard&peaches

Recipes

Seared or sarment-smoked magrets de canard (duck breasts) are amongst our favorite family meals. I love to partner this versatile meat with something sweet, like peaches or pears, as well the the classic French side dish potatoes Sarladaises. I usually start cooking the duck at the same time as the potatoes Sarladaises, so I can use the rendered duck fat immediately. And when you add the peaches, pear and cherry tian, you end up with a lovely embellished dish fit for any occasion.

magret

Duck breasts with honey & balsamic vinegar
Serves 4 (a generous 4)

3-4 magrets de canard/ duck breasts 350-450g/ 3/4 to 1 pound each
5 tablespoons honey
5 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Fleur de sel & freshly ground black pepper

For the duck
Score the magret duck breasts on the fatty side using a sharp knife, cutting in a cross hatch pattern (making the cross-hatches about an inch across). Season the magret duck breasts with salt, and place them on a pan, fatty side down. Heat the pan to medium. Cook the breast until the skin is crispy and most of the fat has rendered, about 15 minutes, depending on thickness of breast. Pour off the fat from the pan frequently and reserve in a bowl. It’s best to have the meat on the rosé side. Turn magret breast over, and cook for 5 minutes. Leave to rest for a few minutes, and slice breast into slim slices. Set aside on an oven-proof plate and keep warm in the oven (90°C/200F) while you make the sauce.

Keep 2 tablespoons of duck fat in the pan, add the honey and balsamic vinegar and stir gently. Cook for 30 second on a medium heat (or the sauce will caramelize very quickly), add the juices from the duck and pour in a serving dish.

Serve with the potatoes Sarladaises.

Sarladaises potatoes

900 g/ 2 pounds new potatoes
3-4 cloves garlic, sliced finely
6-8 tablespoons duck fat (use the duck fat rendered from the duck magrets/fillets)
A small bunch of parsley, leaves picked
Fleur de sel & freshly ground black pepper

Slice the potatoes in rondelles, chop the parsley and slice the garlic cloves thinly.

In a large sauté pan, heat the duck fat (on a medium heat), add the potatoes and stir gently for 10 to 12 minutes. When the potatoes start to be golden, season with salt and pepper.
Lower the heat and continue to cook for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked and tender. Add the garlic and parsley towards the end. Serve immediately.

fruittian2

Cherry, peach & pear tian

Per person: 1 pear, 1 peach and 6 cherries. A few sprigs of rosemary & one tablespoon honey. You will need a small recipient (I use a round ramekin) for individual portions.

Preheat the oven to 180°C/350F

Peel and slice the pear and peach. Slice finely into small rondelles (round slices). Align the slices alternating with each fruit, and place cherries on each side (see picture). Place the sprigs of rosemary on top and drizzle with the honey. Cook in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Serve as a side dish with the duck and potatoes.

strawberrytart

Summer strawberries are irresistible, and I can’t think of a better dessert than a lovely strawberry tart to serve your guests. The lemon flavored crème patissière is light yet creamy with a little twist and I love throwing a refreshing handful of mint leaves to decorate the tart. Enjoy!

Strawberry tart

1 pack strawberries/ 450 g approx.
2 tablespoons redcurrant jelly/gelée de groseille
A handful of mint leaves

For the shortcrust pastry
125 g/ 1 cup plain flour
75 g/ 1/3 cup butter (softened at room temperature)
15 g/ 2 tablespoons sugar
30 g icing/ 4 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar (sifted)
40 g/ 1/4 cup ground almonds
1/2 egg
1/2 pinch of salt

1) In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients together until the mixture forms a soft dough. Shape into a ball, wrap in cling film and place in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
2) On a floured parchment covered surface, roll out the dough to fit the tart pan. Line the tart pan & gently press the edges of the pastry against the interior of the tart pan and prick the base with a fork. Use a piece of leftover dough to press down the edges (this trick will prevent any over-stretching or finger marks).
3) Cover with cling film and place in the freezer for a least 30 minutes (the longer the better). This is a good trick to prevent shrinking.
4) Cut out a piece of parchment paper and line the bottom of the tart. Place beans/marbles/any oven proof weight and blind bake in a preheated oven 180°C/ 350°F for 15 minutes. Remove weight and parchment paper and bake for a further 5 to 8 minutes, or until slightly golden. Set aside and leave to cool for at least 20 minutes before unmoulding.

For the lemon crème patissière
240 ml/1 cup whole milk
120 g granulated sugar
3 egg yolks + 1 egg
1 vanilla pod, split lengthwise, beans scraped or 2 tsp vanilla extract
The zest of 2 lemons
150 ml/2/3 cup heavy cream
Juice of 1 lemon
30 g/1/4 cup plain flour

In a large bowl, whisk the sugar, eggs and flour until light and fluffy, about 8 minutes. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice.
Place the milk, cream and vanilla seeds in a large saucepan and bring to a soft simmer. Gently pour the warm mixture into the egg bowl, whisking continuously and return the mixture to the saucepan. Continue to whisk on a low heat, until the mixture thickens to a custard. Pour into a bowl and cover with baking paper directly on top of mixture. Leave to cool completely and place into the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Spoon the crème patissière into the tart and smooth with a spatula.

Place the strawberries on the tart (see picture), starting from the edge in a circular pattern.

Heat the redcurrant jelly and 1 tablespoon water. Leave to cool and brush the strawberries with the mixture for a glossy and sweet glaze. Decorate the tart with the mint leaves.

hortensia

411 thoughts on “The busy bees

  1. felcitations à tous deux pour audrey may!
    et bienvenue à votre petite puce!!
    prenez soin de vous mimi,portez vous bien en médoc
    tres amicalement mariepierre

    1. How incredible! What a beautiful baby and I love the name…after my favorite actress Audrey Hepburn? I was enchanted about your birthing story. What a perfect ending to wonderfully magical time and a great story to tell for years to come. As always, I love your photos and dream about France every time you post. I always share your blog with my best friends and daughters. You inspire me. Enjoy this special time.
      Keri

  2. The fruits tian looks divine (but what doesn’t on this post, Mimi …).

    As a lawyer, I just don’t understand how the mairie accepted another family name for your daughter, I’d be very glad to know !

    And finally, it’s good to see that you’re already en pleine forme ! Take care xx

    1. And, oh, I didn’t congratulate you on the birth of Audrey May, because I already did it on IG 😉 But another welcome wouldn’t hurt I guess 🙂 x

      1. Merci dearest Alice! Your kind wishes are most welcome . So now I know you are a lawyer… it can always come in handy 🙂 For the Icelandic family name of Audrey, I guess the person at the mairie saw the big back-up of ‘Oddsdottir’ before baby Audrey’s arrival. Must have convinced her it would be acceptable. But usually we have a ‘us et coutume’ official letter from the Icelandic embassy. Take care and enjoy the tian – it good as a side dish, but also as a dessert! 2 in 1 🙂 Mimi x

  3. A heartfelf congratulations to you, your husband and family!!!!!
    I am sure Audrey May is as beautiful as her mother!!!!
    Marvelous entry.

  4. Congratulations to you and your family! Your recipes, writing and photographs bring so much joy to my home!

  5. Hi Mimi, thank you for the wonderful story, and congratulations on the (truly magical) birth of your daughter Audrey. You are amazing – you can really do everything!!!

  6. What a lovely sight of spring ! Congratulations and a very big welcome to your new angel onto this earth.
    Thank you for reminding me of Tampopo, I loved that film, saw it so long ago and probably reinvented it since, but it had a profound influence on me, the time, the love, the dogged determination that goes into making the best (broth for your noodles) the best food you can in the most conscious way and sometimes this may just be a boiled potato with a knob of butter and thus build around you a lovely world to share !

  7. Dear Mimi, thank you so much for your blog, for sharing your life with us! I à fond of cooking, beautiful tables, flowers… Quite thé same! Thanks for these new recipes, beautiful photos as ever. You bring me back 5 years ago with our last girl’s birth ( stopped at 4)! We are going to Arcachon this summer as always, I would love to meeting you and your family. Take great care. Bisous cecile. PS today is my birthday, your post is like à présent to me!

      1. Thank you for your kind answer! Forget all the mistakes my Ipad is not fluent in english…
        Glad that your lovely baby is so easy; and amazed that you are doing so many things just 2 weeks after her birth! Take care and Bravo!

  8. How beautiful, Mimi. And hello dear Audrey May. Welcome to the world…may beauty and God’s blessings always surround you.

    Thank you for sharing…I’ve been looking forward to this post and ‘meeting’ your rosy angel.

    xx

  9. Warmest congratulations, and very glad you’re back with us. You were missed.

    The home birth was a bit of a surprise, but it was not surprising that you all handled it so well.

    1. Salut Joachim! So nice to be back, thank you so much for the warm welcome! Audrey May is doing great, thanks to her good sleeping habits I am feeling good too! Wishing you some good home-cooking! Mimi x

  10. Congratulations on the arrival of your beautiful girl! I love her name. What a magical beginning to a little one’s life. I loved reading this post. Thank you!

  11. Audrey May… Quel joli nom!
    Je vous souhaite beaucoup de bonheur Mimi… à vous et à toute votre famille.

  12. Bonjour Mimi!
    Congrats to you and the whole family on the addition of Audrey. What a beautifully written story. Once again you continue to inspire and amaze me. How do you write such amazing post, cook, clean, take care of children, plan your bistrot. Im exhausted thinking about it. Be well my friend! Patrick

  13. Bonjour Mimi!
    I’m glad you are back and posting! I have missed your photos and stories. It will be wonderful to see Gaia and Audrey helping you while the other kids are at school.

    1. Thank you so much Andris! Feels like i have been gone too long 🙂 Audrey May is doing just fine – so sweet and we are overwhelmed with joy! Warm wishes, Mimi x

  14. Congratulations on the new baby girl!!! I’ve been waiting patiently to see when your new little one arrived and loved reading the birth story here in this post. Is birthing at home not common in your area? Are there no midwives that come to your home? It sounds like maybe if you had planned to birth at home it wouldn’t have been so dramatic at the end because YOU handled it all so gracefully.

    1. Thanks Roz! Birthing is not so common, not in my area… But it’s certainly something that’s talked about a lot, as I feel more and more mothers would like that option. I feel so happy to have had the experience at home – it was so beautiful and serene (despite all the surprise & drama!). Thanks for your kind wishes! Best, Mimi x

  15. The biggest and most wonderful congratulations to both of you. I just found you again on Instangram and so learned about your fantastic story early. I’m so pleased everything turned out perfectly for you all. Much love and looking forward to seeing more photos of little Audrey. 🙂

    1. Bonsoir Veronica! It’s wonderful to be back and catch up with everyone! Audrey May is doing so well, she’s growing up every little day – 2 weeks old already! Thank you for your kind wishes! Warm hugs, Mimi x

  16. Such a gorgeous post on so many levels. I love summer and don’t want to wish it away but I cannot WAIT for your cookbook. Still due in October?

    1. Hello Casey! How lovely to hear from you – yes, the book is coming out October 28th – I feel the same as you – I can’t wait till the fall, but I also want summer to stay forever! Let’s hope we have an Indian summer this fall 🙂 Best, Mimi x

  17. Beautiful story. Truly beautiful. My husband and I birthed our baby boy at home in December. It was unplanned and it was beyond amazing in the truest sense of the word.

    1. Bonsoir Erin! So lovely to hear we shared a similar experience! Happy to hear it went well! There was an inner voice in me that said it was all going to be fine, but I was terrified about the ‘just in case’ risks. All I wanted was the reassurance from the medical team! But I agree, it was a truly amazing experience. Much love, Mimi x

  18. First off, CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I am terribly happy to hear you and your little one are doing so well. My 7 year old son Liam and 3 year old daughter Elsa are both big fans of yours after seeing your Mr. Porter clip. They request it often and thoroughly enjoyed the apple tart when I made it for them. They were very excited to see your first Instagram photo of Audrey May. So much so that I have now been ordered to produce another little sister for them!

    I can relate to being unable to rest after the birth of your little girl. Both of mine were c-section deliveries and as such I was ordered to rest as much as possible upon my return home, but just couldn’t manage it. I was up and on my feet right from the start, cooking, cleaning taking care of my family as if nothing had happened. Anyway, I’ve rambled on long enough! Congratulations again, Audrey May is beautiful and very lucky to have such a loving family to call her own 🙂

    PS. Love the photos! I’m looking forward to making the recipes. Every one of your recipes that I’ve made so far have been superb!

    1. Bonsoir Kimberly! Big hellos to Liam and Elsa! Say hi from me and the family! I love little kitchen helpers, hopefully I will get to say hi in person one day 🙂 Thank you so much for your kind wishes – so much joy to be shared with Audrey May! Big hugs to your family! Mimi x

  19. Congratulations to you……….what a magical story about Audrey Mays birth, dear Mimi, and what a sweet little girl she is. Such a great post again………absolutly breathtaking! Have a wonderful time,

    with love, Jade

  20. Fresh roses and the sweet scent of strawberries … can’t think of a lovelier, more romantic introduction to the world! And what an entrance she made! Congrats on the most exciting birth of your little Audrey May!! xo

  21. Mrs Dalloway is my favorite books… so I guess you decided not only to get the flowers yourself, but to deliver a beautiful one.
    Congratulations to you and your gorgeous family.

    1. Great books are a bit like having best friends – they are always there to comfort you no matter what situation 🙂 Thank you so much for your kind wishes! Mimi x

  22. What a delightful and elevating story of the day of Audrey’s birth. Congratulations to your beautiful new daughter, so cozy in your arms and in the strawberry fields!
    And you all are right back to unbelievable posts/pictures/recipes weaving happy stories. Thank you

    1. Bonsoir Sarah! Thanks for your kind wishes. Audrey’s arrival was incredible, and it was particularly touching for Oddur who delivered her. We will never forget this experience and can’t wait to tell our baby girl this story 🙂 Warm hugs, Mimi x

  23. Many congratulations to you and your family. Audrey May is lovely. I too had 2 of my 3 children at home completely without planning so I do understand that the baby calls the shots…have a wonderful move. Melanie : )

  24. What a beautiful post, as usual. Your new daughter is precious. I can’t wait to get a copy of your cookbook. Please let us know as soon as it is available!

  25. BRAVO!!!!!
    I am thrilled for you.
    By the way, for me she will always be AUDREY MAY not the simpler AUDREY—but either way she will always be precious.

  26. Welcome to the world, little Audrey May ! What a wonderful story about her “debut” and how beautifully you’ve written every word here – but that’s as always. I’ve so been looking forward to this post about your new baby girl and you sure didn’t disappoint. A very exciting tale, and funny, and touching too. And, of course, all your posts leave me hungry ! Congratulations to you and Oddur, Mimi. And wishes for a beautiful life ahead for Audrey May !

    1. Thank you so much Linny! It brings me such joy to share this wonderful news – I feel so much warmth and closeness from everyone. Wishing you some happy cooking! Best, Mimix

  27. Oh Mimi, what a beautiful baby girl you are holding in your arms. Hair just like her mommy. So happy that all went well with her entrance into this beautiful world, surrounded by those who love her the most and with the bonus of no plastic floors!! You simply amaze me Mimi. How you do all you do leaves me speechless but also gives me an incentive to do more with the precious hours of the day. You inspire me and I thank you for that. Beautiful photos and beautiful words today. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I always walk away from your blog inspired!! Enjoy the day and your sweet family. Hugs to Audrey May.

    1. Thank you Sandy for also inspiring me! Audrey is bringing us such joy, her siblings are overjoyed and spend all their spare time kissing her 🙂 Big hugs, Mimi x

  28. Congratulations! I had two of my three children at home and I share your appreciation of going it as woman have fro thousands of years. I was grateful for the hospital for my 3rd baby’s cesarian as he was transverse (sideways) as nor his head or feet would present. He was also 10 lbs! I am little and so now at 14 he is much taller than me! Many blessing for your new precious flower. May she give and receive much happiness and joy!

  29. Congratulations to you and your family! I adores the pics on Instagram of you surrounded by really handsome firemen may I add? 😉 you all look so happy and relieved and am sure this will be part of your family folklore. Best wishes as always! Xxx

    1. Thank you! Oh dear, there was such an audience in our bedroom that night – but I loved how the good spirit & humor from everyone encouraged me to laugh and stay strong. Oddur of course couldn’t help taking a few group shots which made everyone laugh 🙂 It was an unforgettable night! Mimi x

  30. Congratulations to Audrey May, what a beautiful name! I can’t tell you how much pleasure it is to read every month your post. Living now in the US (Midwest) before we left the Alsace (France) gives me such a hard time finding all the good ingredients for your recipe. I’m a passionate cook and totally “indulge” in your recipes. Can’t wait for your new house to be ready. We will for sure step by. Enjoy et à bientôt xx

    1. Merci chère Brigitte! I am so happy to hear that you “indulge” in the recipes – enjoy these ones – the duck is so lovely I am planning to prepare it again for my guests this Friday evening. Merci! Mimi x

  31. What a lucious and devine posting! Welcome to the world of strawberries fields forever sweet baby Audrey May!
    More fun to look forward to at Chez Mimi! Congrats to you and your family!
    How ever do you do it all!?

  32. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. Hooray for Audrey May! Raising a virtual glass of bubbly to you and your wonderful family…May Little Miss Audrey May love the land and life as much as you do…

  33. Dear Mimi,
    Welcome back, miss you a lot. Congratulations! Audrey May looks so adorable and precious, her name is beautiful. May God bless her and God bless you all.
    Your delivery seemed very adventurous, and sounded amazing too, Love it.
    A baby girl in our part of the world brings good luck to her parents, Best wishes, hugs and kisses going your way Rowaida

  34. Félicitations Mimi! Finalement elle est resté au delà du 25 mai! J’aime beaucoup son prénom, elle a était porté par mon actrice préfère, Hepburn. J’imagine bien l’scène, un peu comme dans les films, avec tout le monde qui cour partout, des médecins, pompiers…c’est drôle parce que j’imagine que le Samu était la, donc mon mari aura pu être las bas! Il est médecin.
    Tu as la chance d’être entouré des fraises et de miel. Le miel, je l’adore depuis toute petite et j’aime bien lâchée les ruches.
    Très belles photos et très appétissant repas. Félicitations à toute la famille.

    1. Merci chère Eva! Et bien oui, votre mari aurait pu être la! 🙂 Audrey May se porte bien, et oui, Audrey Hepburn est aussi mon actrice préférée, et souvenez-vous du film ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’? Son vrai nom dans le film était Lula Mae (mais nous avons choisi May car elle est née en Mai). Voilà l’origine de son prénom 🙂

  35. Congratulations on dear Audrey May! You are so brave Mimi to deliver at home, what a strong woman you are. Yet again I want to eat every morsel of the food on this page!

  36. You are one fabulous woman Mimi! What a story! I commented on your previous post re her wonderful entrance into the world (I’m not on instagram but look at your feed from time to time so found out there) but congrats again to all of you! Thank you for all the inspiration- as always the tasty food is only part of your magnificent offering to your readers. Lovely to think Audrey and the rest of you too, although moving to a great new home will forever have a little special place in your hearts for your present one due to her being born there. May everything go smoothly with the up-coming move. I’m going to try my hand at your duck recipe x

    1. Thank you so much Mary! We are so happy to share this wonderful news – yet another adventurous chapter in our lives – life is indeed full of surprises 🙂 Enjoy the duck recipe – I will be hosting a dinner with friends on Friday and this will be our main dish 🙂 Mimi x

  37. Mimi, first of all, congratulation to your new baby.
    I must tell, in my eyes, you are living a dream. A dream that I thought only exists in novels. So pure, so natural and just lovely.

    1. Oh merci Vera! Thankyou for such a lovely comment. I do feel I am living a little dream – as long as I am with my family, surrounded by nature and good weather (and food!), I’m happy 🙂 Mimi x

  38. Congradulations on the birth of your precious daughter. Best wishes to you and your family. Cheryl from Calgary Alberta Canada.

  39. Mimi,
    I had tears of joy running down my face as I read your post about the birth of your baby. How sweet, how perfect. You captured how incredible it is to give birth- at how such a blessing it is. I’m so very happy for you and your family.

  40. Hi Mimi!!
    Felicitations pour cette petite Audrey May! Thanks for sharing this beautiful birth story – I’m actually an absolute fan of them & yours is a real dream 😉
    And thanks for taking the time to write such a long post to give news & share recipes!! I have no idea how you do that… but it does inspire me 🙂
    Hope you do get some rest too, take care!
    PS ooh and those pictures of le Domaine de la Fosse & leurs fraises make me want to go back there… it was a year ago actually 😉

    1. Merci Rebecca! Did you stay at the Arnould’s domaine last year? They are such wonderful people, with thebest strawberries in médoc 🙂 So touched by your kind wishes 🙂 Mimi x

      1. Hello Mimi! It’s amazing how you take the time to reply to every one, thank you!! Yes, after reading your blog post last year on the Arnoulds’ strawberry farm, we stayed a week there!! Remember we came (my husband, my 2 year old son & I) all the way from Mauritius to enjoy the Medocan rain & strawberries… & a lot more actually 😉 At that time you were busy shooting for Cuisine +, so I didn’t dare bother you.. 😉 And indeed Caroline, Michel & Simon are such lovely people! 🙂 xxxx Rebecca

  41. Oh Mimi! 恭喜恭喜你! All the very best to you and your family! Warm wishes, Sophie (friends with IFJ) xo

  42. Félicitations pour votre petite Audrey May ! Prenez bien soin de vous et de votre jolie tribu. A bientôt Mimi !

  43. Congratulations..!

    What a tiny precious little package..I love that age..all bunched up lying into us..
    You look so beautiful..

    As do all the photos..
    C’est un vrai plaisir vous visiter.

  44. Oh, Mimi! Little Audrey is just a little doll – the photo of you snuggling her in the pink blanket is so overwhelmingly beautiful – it made my heart melt. Congratulations on your newest and purest little confection!

  45. Wonderful post Mimi! You are such a great writer …
    and it was educative as well… until now I thought only Russians have so called “ochestvo” – part of surname that is derived from father’s first name- now I know Icelandic people have the same thing. How interesting!
    Many blessings to your lovely Audrey May – although by being born in your wonderful family she’s already been very blessed!

    p.s. indeed, I must agree, there is something soothing in the way Mrs Dalloway is written … that steam of consciousness – such a genuinely feminine way of expressing

  46. Welcome baby Audrey! What a courageous girl–both of you!–to be at home for the arrival!
    Thanks for the big long post full of what we have all been longing for–more food/recipes and a new baby!

  47. I though that Icelandic tradition meant that a girl takes her mother’s first name and a son takes his father’s first name as a surname which would make your daughter Audrey Mimisdottir?

    Congratulations on the birth of your daughter.

    1. 🙂 That would be so cute – Mimisdottir! Sounds like a little troll 🙂 Thank you for your kind wishes, Audrey is doing great! Have a lovely week-end, Mimi x

  48. congratulations on your sweet baby girl! sending wishes for tremendous health and happiness to you all.

  49. Congratulations on so many things! I love that sweet birth story. I think sometimes (especially in America), we need the reminder that hospitals and doctors and all of the fuss are a fairly recent addition, yet we’re all still alive and thriving today.
    I am so incredibly excited for your cookbook. Reading through your blog is always a small vacation, so I can imagine how I’ll feel with a whole book!
    Strawberries just came in season where we are, and while I’ve been putting them in anything I can think of, an excellent use for the tops is to make flavored water (http://girlnamedallyn.wordpress.com/2014/06/10/strawberry-mint-water/)
    Thank you for a little taste of beautiful France!

    1. Thank you for your kind wishes Allyn. I know what you mean regarding hospitals & doctors etc.. When Audrey was born, I was mainly concerned about her health, and felt so nervous but somehow just having her next to me, hearing her cry and breathe, I was instantly reassured. We are very lucky the birth went so smoothly 🙂 And thanks for the cheers regarding the cookbook! We can’t wait 🙂 Mimix

  50. Mimi! Oh I missed you!
    Your little “bee” was born, so cute! I hope it has all gone well 🙂
    I love bees and honey … I’m not afraid of them and I really admire their work and organization.
    Again splendid photographs 🙂
    Many happiness for your new baby, for you, dad and brothers.
    A big kiss
    Claudia

    1. Merci Claudia! Audrey is doing so well, growing up every little day. I am in love with my little newborn :)I truly enjoyed the honey farm – Bernard advised me to always stay behing the ‘ruche’ so that I wouldn’t get stung. And I didn’t! Bees are so fascinating and I can’t explain the pleasure it was to eat the purest honeycomb. Instant energy! Bon week-end, Mimi x

  51. Congratulations to you and your family on the arrival of Audrey. What a beautiful name and what an arrival to the world! Felicitation à vous et votre famille! Will read the rest of the article later. lol xo

  52. Congratulations Mimi, so happy to Congratulations Mimi, so happy to hear that you and Audrey are happy and healthy after the slightly dramatic birth. Loved this post! Thank you for sharing it with us.

    Just curious, what are some of your other favorite books (ones that also reside on the bedside book table?)

    Thank you and warm wishes to you and your family!

    1. Thanks for your kind wishes Mariah! I never thought the birth would happen in such a dramatic way. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing – it was a beautiful and unforgettable experience (perhaps the presence of a midwife would have been better) 🙂 ! As for the books, the closest to my heart are: Henrik Ibsen: Selected Plays, Guillaume Apollinaire: Alcools, F. Scott Fitzgerald: The beautiful & the damned, Maugham: The painted veil, Chekhov: The seagull… I could go on & on… Mimi x

  53. So happy for you, Mimi! I love your blog and feel as if I’ve gotten to know you and your family through your beautiful stories and recipes! I believe we must share a special connection! My eldest daughter, Mia Noelle, is affectionately known as Mimi and we named our 10 month old daughter Audrey Elizabeth. My birthday is May 27th, too! When I was younger my family would rent a lovely farm house during the summer in a very small village in the Dordogne called Turnac and I have always loved the flavors and fragrance of France! One day I hope to introduce my own family to your wonderful country!

    1. Bonjour Heidi! Then perhaps one day we will cross paths! I do believe in all these little signs 🙂 Thanks for your kind wishes – and warm regards to your family! Mimi x

  54. What joy the arrival of Audrey Mayo, she looks so cute. It’s very nice to continue the tradition and Icelandic children take the father’s name. That beautiful beginning of life is your girl. I wish you much happiness and to celebrate this good news I will try the delicious menu offers. A hug full of love for you all.

  55. Congratulations Mimi! Warm wishes from Berlin to you, your wonderful little Audrey May and the rest of your family. You are really brave!

  56. Dear Miss Mimi- why am I not surprised to read that Miss Audrey May arrived at home – not unlike so many of the other beautiful productions that we read about on your blog- such a pleasure as always and many congratulations to you and your family.

  57. I have been waiting for your latest news. Thought there might be just a picture of you and the new baby girl. Not so, a beautiful post with you and Audrey May looking so lovely and business as usual! You truly are a remarkable woman and wishing you and your family lots of joy and love at this special time.

  58. Dear Mimi! Congratulations for Audrey May! Je vous souhaite à tous plein de moments de joie entre vous. Je souhaite à Audrey de voler légèrement sur ce chemin qu’on appelle la vie, de profiter de tout ce que la vie lui offrira, de savoir transformer les obstacles en challenges à gagner. Je souhaite à ces frères et soeurs une copine de jeux joyeuse. Et finalement je souhaite aux parents des larmes de joie regardant la petite grandir.
    Love frome Slovenia.
    Natasa

  59. Oh, Congratulations! You just exude loveliness and grace. and what a beautiful start to a new life….how lucky she is.

    I just know your book is going to be my favorite on the shelf. I can hardly wait for it to come out.

    I wish lots of love and happiness to your beautiful family. ♥

  60. Dear Mimi,
    Congratulations on the birth of your beautiful little daughter. And thank you for telling us the circumstances of her birth–so lovely that it was just the two of you bringing her into the world. I pray for God’s blessings on all your family.

  61. This is a beautiful story and I especially love the idea of your little girl finding an unknown comfort and familiarity one day in a strawberry field. My parents visited Hawai’i, on return to the US from a military posting, and went pineapple picking. I was 6 months old and, apparently, happily chewing on the golden fruit the whole time. Pineapple is still my favorite and always consumes me with such happiness when I eat it.

    So yes, you are never too young to begin enjoying the simple and wonderful things in life.

    Congratulations to you and your family.

  62. Congratulations Mimi!! I am so impressed with your strength, courage, and demeanor. And I am THRILLED to cook this meal! Thank you so much for sharing the recipes and your life with us. You know, after following your blog for over a year now, I find myself repeatedly wondering why I’m not living in a château in France! You live a most desirable life Mimi. 😉 Congratulations again for Audrey!

  63. Mimi, congratulations to you all!! I’m so happy your new baby is here, safe and sound. And having her at home- you are amazing!

  64. Congratulations on the birth of your daughter! I love the name May for a middle name. It’s become a family name in my family, my grandmother’s name was Mabel, I have an aunt Mabel and I have a cousin Mabel. My aunt Mabel (Mae) named her daughter Sandra Mae which I love love love love!

  65. Forever the name Audrey May will be sentenced with roses, honey and peaches to me. Thank you for writing about her arrival in such poetic way. And thank you for sharing. Welcome, little wonder. And congratulations to you, Oddur and the children!

  66. Congratulations to you and Oddur!! What a beautiful little rose is Audrey, and I do adore that name! So glad to see you back and everyone healthy and happy in Medoc.

    Best wishes from Chicago,
    Jennifer

  67. Congratulations! What a sweet wish of a future of strawberry dreams for you new baby girl.

    It is such a pleasure to read your blog and not only learn to cook amazing food but get a glimpse of your beautiful life. I learn so much from every post.

    1. Merci Kristy – I am so touched by your kind words. Audrey’s arrival was so poetic – I can’t wait to tell her all about it. I’ll make sure we will be in a strawberry field then! Mimi x

  68. One of the most beautifully illustrated posts of all, full of summer mood and happiness. Congratulations & best wishes for the baby girl!!

  69. Congratulations on the birth of Audrey May, Mimi and Oddur, and thank you for sharing its beautiful story with us! We rejoice with and for you and your family. All the best, Leslie

  70. Hello Mimi, j’étais impatiente de lire tes aventures extraordinaires ainsi que tes dernières recettes et je suis encore une fois charmée. Jolis textes empreints de délicatesse et d’humour, photos sublimes, un bain de bonheur ! Meilleurs voeux à toute la tribu. Bisous

  71. Congratulations on the arrival of Audrey May to you and all the family.It was a joy to read such a beautiful and moving story and all intertwined.I don’t know how you have accomplished so much since Audrey’s birth.Best wishes from Sydney.

  72. Mimi, I now believe there is nothing that you cannot do! Congratulations and best wishes to you and your lovely family on the birth of Audrey. You continue to amaze me with every post. 🙂

  73. Mimi, the diary of Audrey May’s birth was captivating and very touching. Thank you for all that you share with your followers. I hope you and Oddur are having peaceful nights. Hugs…

  74. Love everything about this especially the introduction of your new daughter! A baby is a marvellous thing and your photos are precious. Off to buy duck breasts…

  75. Mimi,
    Congratulations on your new little blessing Audrey May. What a lovely post to update us on her arrival. It brought tears to my eyes. Enjoy this special time as they grow up so quickly.

  76. This is my most favourite piece of text I have ever read on the internet. Congratulations Mimi – you are divine xx

  77. What an absolutely gorgeous post. Congratulations on your new baby. She’s lucky to have a mother so committed to the senses and the pleasures of la vie quotidienne!

  78. All the best wishes to you and to Audrey May. What a lovely birth, it brought tears to my eyes remembering those sweet early moments. (My boys are now 18 and 16.)
    I had been thinking of you since your last post about Mother’s day and the imminent arrival of your daughter.
    I await more news as you transition to your new home with your new addition.
    All the best,
    Patricia

    ps if you need any recipe testers here in the US, sign me up !

    1. Bonjour Patricia, Thank you for your kind wishes. Audrey is doing great, she’s changing and growing into a fine little lady day by day. I am loving these beautiful moments! I will keep your name in mind for recipe testing 🙂 Thanks, Mimi x

  79. Congratulations on the birth of your beautiful baby girl. I love her chosen name. My Norwegian ancestors were named in the same way as Oddur’s Icelandic tradition.
    Mimi, you look fabulous!
    Thank you for sharing this wonderful story with us and for inspiring me with some fabulous recipes. Your new book will surely be a masterpiece.
    Linda

  80. Bonjour dear Mimi and welcome sweet Audrey May.
    Mimi, you are a Virginia Woolf fan. Just finished A Room of One’s Own. You may need this book next to your bed – Virginia Woolf’s Garden – The story of the garden at Monk House – Caroline Zoob. Virginia and Harold were fond of roses….the garden is a dream.
    Mimi, I still have your Poule-au-Pot as my first priority when friends gather soon but that duck with the honey and balsamic reduction looks a treat.
    Looks like Oddur and Hudson had some fun cooking together in your absence especially their Spaghetti Bolognese avec Opera!!! I laughed. Family and friends, great food and wine, gardens filled with roses….The Good Life xx Anita

    1. Bonjour Anita! Your UK trip looked so lovely, are you back home? I love Virginia Woolf, and I can’t wait to read ‘A room of one’s own’ – it was always a book on my list to read 🙂 I hope you will enjoy the poule-au-pot with your friends! Audrey is well, so sweet and changing everyday. We are blessed with this little angel 🙂 Bon dimanche ma chère, Mimix

  81. What a beautiful post! Congratulations! Hearing positive birthing stories helps to ease some of my own fears about my own birthing experience that is right around the corner. I have been put on bed rest because my little bee is trying to come to soon. Is there anything special you are doing to help recover so fast? Or do you atribute it mostly to her good sleeping habits? I hope to be back on my feet as quickly as you!

    1. Bonjour Amanda! Sending you warm wishes from Médoc! Just relax and enjoy the last days before the birth – you need all the energy! I have been lucky with Audrey good sleeping habits, it certainly helps to recover faster. I also drink 6 cups of fennel/fenugreek/anisseed herbal tea everyday. It’s very good for breasfeeding and I find it very revitalizing. I also love having a ginger/honey drink everymorning. Just slice a generous amount of ginger (about 3 tablespoons) and add honey + warm water. Ginger is very good for recovery and healing. Bonne chance, wishing you all the best, Mimi x

  82. Congratulations on a healthy baby girl and such a beautiful name for her. I imagine you are just overjoyed.
    And, what an experience for her to have smelled strawberries already – I have picked mine for the spring and made strawberry balsamic jam – yes, as good as it sounds!

  83. Your birth experience sounds so beautiful.

    Thank you for sharing your life and your love in this blog. It inspires me so much. Thank you!

  84. félicitations!!! i’m so happy for you & your family, & welcome to the world little miss audrey may! may your life be blessed with limitless inspiration, love, floral scents & joy 🙂

  85. I had been checking in to see if there was any baby news! But alas, here is the post about your beautiful new daughter. And what an amazing, unexpected entry. We just welcomed our fifth child, a daughter Cecelia in November. What a joy it is to raise these children, cook, nurture, blog and connect. We are blessed. Be well and by all means rest when you can. It often seems like we are running on pure joy after giving birth!

    1. Congratulations to you! What a lovely name, Cecilia. I do agree, we are running on pure joy – I am loving these tender moments, watching a newborn grow is wonderful. We are blessed indeed. Mimi x

  86. Congratulations to you and your family!! What a special delivery… You and your husband must be so proud to have delivered on your own. Enjoy your little girl and thanks for sharing these special moments with us!

  87. Oh, the biggest congratulations to you and your family! Welcome, Audrey May! I gave birth to my third in a similar way, although I never made it out of bed. I love the story and may little Audrey bring you joy forever.

  88. I had tears in my eyes as I read your post, but I was smiling…what beautiful writing. Our second daughter is named Ilse May. I am happy that you are all well – as crazy as it seems to say to a mother of 5 and about to embark on a big project– I hope you do take good care of yourself. Thank you for sharing this with us blog readers!
    Congratulations!
    Lise-Lotte

  89. Hello from Oregon!

    My wife recently introduced me to your blog and I am hooked! We are the parents of eight children – one girl and seven boys – and love to read about your life and family.

    I must tell you that the beautiful post about your daughter’s birth brought tears to my eyes. What a lovely, lovely story!

    Thanks for sharing your life and inspiration with so many of us.

    All the best!

    1. Hello Jake, Lovey to hear from you – and what a beautiful big family you have! Wow, one girl and seven boys… 🙂 Such joy! So happy to hear you enjoy the blog! Wising you all the best, Mimi x

  90. Congratulations! I have been wondering when and how! Of course, as with all things in your life, such a lovely intro into your family for adorable little Audrey May. Thank you for sharing such a lovely story, your lovely newborn daughter and such delicious recipes! 😀

  91. Congratulations! It’s so funny- you and Sara Forte of the Sprouted Kitchen both delivered around the same times- I have been looking forward to both your blogs to hear about your babies! 😀

  92. Félicitations Mimi ! J’attendais ce billet et suis heureuse de voir tant de bonheur chez vous ! Je ne suis pas étonnée de savoir qu’Audrey May soit si sage !
    Tout ici inspire au calme et à la sérénité !
    A bientôt et plein de bonheur pour vous tous

  93. Hello Mimi, you have been missed!! But so thrilled to hear about the beautiful event of new life entering forth into your family’s world, surely a new star is burning bright in the night sky. Audrey May is a very blessed, lovely little flower, well done! I am glad to see that you are well, and looking so radiant. Ah yes,Tampopo, one of my favorites! I can’t wait to make the summer fruit recipes! Thank you again for the life inspiring post. May you be filled with abundant joy.

    1. Oh merci chère Gee Gee! It’s lovelyto reconnect with everyone. Audrey is doing great – we are enjoying her peaceful nights and warm weather. Hope your family is well. Warm hugs, Mimi x

  94. Bienvenue à Audrey-May et félicitations à la maman. Très joli prénom, très féminin, elle sera très coquette.
    J’ai très envie de fêter ça en confectionnant la tarte aux fraises.
    Belle gourmandise.
    Amitiés de Fine

  95. My warmest congratulations to the new little angel in your home! I am amazed that you have managed to put together yet another wonderful story with lovely photographs and recepies!

  96. Congratulations Mimi, so happy for you and your family!! Roses, honey, strawberries and sweet little Audrey May – thank you for sharing your beautiful story, it was a joy to read, as always…

  97. Félicitations à vous deux !
    C’est super de trouver quelqu’un comme vous qui est tombée en quelque sorte amoureuse du Médoc et qui propose de délicieuses recettes !

    Félicitations

  98. Congratulations! What great news. Audrey-May is such a pretty name.

    This is my favorite way of serving duck breasts and that strawberry tart looks just irresistible.

    Cheers,

    Rosa

  99. What an incredible story, but I guess when you get to your fifth, you know what you are doing. I had to very clinical birth experiences and wish I could have had such a natural one. Congratulations, what a lovely little girls!

  100. Congratulations, what a wonderful and strong woman you are. I was very touched by your words. Thank you for your energy and love of life and the wonderful pictures.
    Barbara
    ps: my daughter’s name is Audrey

    1. Bonjour Barbara! Lovely to hear that Audrey is also your daughter’s name (and may I say, Barbara is one of my favorite names 🙂 ) Wishing you all the best, Mimi x

  101. What a lot is happening in your life! Babies, cookbooks … welcome to the world, Audrey. (And for the record how nice to find someone who loves Tampopo as much as I do – most people have never heard of it.)

    1. Bonjour Linda! Thank you for your kind wishes 🙂 Audrey is doing great, loving all these tender moments… As for Tampopo, such a great classic – I am always starving for a good bowl of noodles after each viewing 🙂 Mimi x

  102. Congratulations, dear Mimi. I am sure all of us followed your story through Instagram photos from your husband 🙂
    Your story sounds so enchanting and touchy, I read it with tears of joy in my eyes. Thank you for sharing with us such an intimate moments. We are all grateful and happy.
    Wish you all happiness, waiting for the book and send you warm regards.
    P.S. The day I saw strawberry tart on your Instagram page, the same was baking in my oven. 🙂
    Wish you luck

  103. Congratulations, your story is so incredible and sweet, and I’m sure your little Audry May smells of roses: she will be a wonderful woman.Two weeks ago my husband and I were in Bordeaux and Medoc and I thought you. I ate very well at the restaurent that I see here in your blog , but the next time I hope to eat at your table d’hotel.A bientot
    gabriella

    1. Merci beaucoup Gabriella! Lovely to hear you enjoyed your meal in Bordeaux – did you go to La Tupina or Le petit commerce? Hope to meet you soon! 🙂 Mimi x

      1. I went to both. The owner of Le petit commerce is a very nice person, when he understood we were tourist he gave us a beautiful book about Bordeaux. I hope to come back soon.
        gabriella

  104. Your love of cooking is truly genuine and the stories you write make me feel like I am right there with you. Once again your post has inspired me to not only keep cooking, but writing. It was also wonderful to hear the story behind the photos of your new girl flowing around Instagram. Those strawberry fields are forever.

    1. Oh thank you Alana! I am so touched by your sweet comment – cooking and writing are my two biggest passions 🙂 I am loving these tender moments with the family – we are blessed with sweet Audrey. Bon dimanche, Mimi x

  105. I did follow ODDUR on INSTAGRAM and noted the manly meal!That was a clue something had happened!What a story!Loved the photo of the firemen etc in your bedroom!Love the name too…..AUDREY MAY.You are now complete………..A lovely Post.XOXOX

    1. Merci dearest Contessa! Oddur sure entertained me with his instagram feed when I was at the hospital with Audrey May. 🙂 All is well, Audrey is a little Angel! Much love, Mimi x

  106. What a beautiful post. So happy to hear the news.How do you manage to do so much! Sending all best wishes to you & all your family. X

  107. What a wonderful surprise when on my way to bed I decided to check my emails, congratulations to you and your husband on the unforgettable arrival of Audrey May, well done! It is just after midnight here in Australia (downunder). I am sure I will have lovely dreams of your beautiful post. xx

    1. Thank you so much Stacey! The tian was a last-minute little idea – sometimes I just stare at the stack of fruits and vegetables, and a wonderful new idea jumps to my head 🙂 Love the “prettiness” of a tian. Audrey is doing great – loving these beautiful moments. Bon dimanche, Mimi x

  108. Dear Mimi,
    I’ve been reading your blog for months and love it! I’ve followed your little belly on the photos to see when you would have your baby….and there she is…..She looks tiny and sweet and I wish her a very very joyful life….Just a little correction(I grew up in the Périgord):it’s pommes sarladaises,cause the city they are named after is Sarlat.Blessings,niki

    1. Bonjour Niki, Thank you for your kind wishes – Audrey is doing so well, giving me peaceful nights and the most tender & loving moments. It’s pure love 🙂 And thanks for the correction, mais bien sûr, it’s Sarlat and sarladaises. Once I start mis-spelling, I just don’t stop 🙂 Merci j’ai corrigé! Mimi x

  109. Oh Mimi,

    what a beautiful story, what a beautiful name and oh.. what a beautiful girl!

    All the best from Berlin.

    (This is the first time I´m actually writing a comment, but I´ve been reading your blog for almost two years and there was never a post that I didn´t love!)

  110. Félicitations aux heureux parents, soeurs et frères! et encore merci pour ces merveilleuses recettes.

  111. Dear Mimi, so beautiful to see you with your little Audrey! Congratulations! Auguri! Congratulazioni!
    I had also a similar experience giving birth to my first child, he was born in the hands of my husband, me and him and the scissors from the kitchen, with no much effort, only joy!
    Wish you the BEST to you, your husband and children! thanks always for sharing your life, your cooking and inspiring us! anita

  112. That’s by far the most beautiful birth story I’ve ever heard! And you make it seem so effortless and graceful! The fact that you were cooking and cleaning in the summer heat just hours before giving birth is nothing short of amazing! You certainly do have some mystical powers! Thank you for sharing them with the rest of us! Warmest congratulations to you and your family! All the best from Colorado! -Rebecca

    1. Bonjour Rebecca – thank you for your lovely kind wishes! The birth was pure joy (and also a bit of fear), but it was an amazing experience. Audrey is doing great, we are enjoying these pure loving tender moments. Wishing you & your family all the best, Mimi x

  113. Congratulations on the arrival of Audrey May! She’s so adorable – enjoy! I am sooooo looking forward to eating French magrets de canard, thank you for these wonderful recipes. Oh, and Tampopo is one of my favourite films too. x

  114. Warmest congratulations on your new baby, and you are still encouraged to rest on those days and nights when life is too busy. We will understand if you need some time off now and again. What a beautiful blog entry. What a beautiful family.
    Virginia Woolf’s books are dear to my heart, as is Tampopo. How could one not love a spaghetti Western about ramen?

    1. Thank you for your kind wishes, especially for the reminder to rest more – I sure need it. I try to have a good nap everyday (I do try!), but I do get peaceful nights thanks to Audrey 🙂 All the best, Mimi x

  115. Congratulations Mimi on baby Audrey May, what a lovely name! This was a beautiful post, you inspire me to read “Mrs Dollaway”, get some roses and eat strawberries when i get home from Amsterdam. Cassandre x

  116. Congratulations to you and all of your beautiful family Mimi….

    Audrey is so heavenly and I feel sure she will remember strawberry fields for the rest of her life…

    You are an inspiration to mothers everywhere, Mimi…so natural and at ease … so at peace with a new baby… I wish I had been as calm when I had my babies… 🙂

    Enjoy these pecious days… xv

    1. Thank you dearest Vicki – Audrey’s birth was amazing, I was frightened at first (completely taken by surprise), but soon after I was overflowing with joy! It was wonderful! Thank you for your kind wishes! Much love, Mimi x

  117. What a beautiful post with dito pictures. I love reading your blog. It is always so inspiring. Thanks for sharing and congratulations with the new baby. What a great privilege. Enjoy this special time. Warm greetings, Anna

  118. Congratulations and all the best to the baby girl and the whole happy family.

    I read your story with utter pleasure, very positive emotions and beautiful memories. While reading, I saw myself giving birth to my two kids, those were my feelings of being strong and prepared and capable. Cooking, cleaning, shopping throughout the day with easy contractions leading me to meet my babies. Yes, my husband too could hear me saying not a minute longer in the clinic than is necessary. I was actually greeting the doctor with a sentence – ‘I will return home if things don`t look just yet’ … but they did, and my babies were born in no time.

    Many happy returns …

    1. Thank you Katarina for sharing such lovely thoughts! Pregnancies, motherhood – it’s such a wonderful part of our lives 🙂 Babies are such blessings! Wishing all the best, Mimi x

  119. En primer lugar deseo felicitarla por la preciosa recién llegada a la familia.
    Después no puedo más que transmitir el enorme placer que me supone leer sus post. Últimamente que leo muchos libros de relatos y cuentos, creo que sus textos podrían estar a la altura de cualquier buen escritor pues son capaces de transmitir muchas emociones y bellos acontecimientos.
    Y en cuanto a sus comidas, yo que no soy especialmente buena cocinera, siento al leer sus palabras, la necesidad de abandonarlo todo y comenzar a cocinar, probando nuevas recetas y llenando el ambiente de aromas y especies.
    Muchas gracias!

    1. Sorry for my English, because it may not be entirely correct.
      First I want to congratulate you on the beautiful newcomer to the family.
      Then I can just pass the great pleasure that I read your post implies. Lately I read many books of stories and tales, I think your texts could be up to any good writer they are able to convey many emotions and beautiful events.
      And as for their meals, I’m not particularly good cook, Ifeel to read your words, the need to drop everything and start cooking, trying new recipes and filling the air with spices and seasoning.
      Thank you very much!

      1. Hola Sonia! Thank you so much for your kind words – it’s a pleasure to read both versions 🙂 I am so touched to hear you enjoy my writing – it is one of my great passions (along with cooking!). I feel so complete with a good meal and a good story to accompany it, just like wine 🙂 I hope you will get a chance to try a few recipes – they are easy and rewarding! Bon week-end, Mimi x

  120. Your post is like a perfectly executed painting brought up by dreams. I believe writing can be that way just as painting. The base color sets the tone for a piece then the colors are layered and built to enhance and enrich until there lies a composition of contemplative beauty and accomplishment creating for the viewer an emotional experience that gently touches the heart and leaves a warmth and soulful impression. This is what I felt reading your post, serenity and contentment.

    To bring a child into the world is nothing short of a beautiful miracle and you are no less than a goddess for doing so. We all congratulate you and thank you for sharing such precious first moments with sweet Audrey May. That little girl is so blessed to have such beautiful parents with beautiful spirits who obviously know what is so very beautiful about life. May she create an affinity for pink (she looks darling in it) and honey and may your days with the new baby be warm, peaceful, and cherished.

    Nous sommes ravis d’apprendre la naissance de votre petite fille. 🙂

    ~ Tiffany ( who is making another painting for you ^_^)

    1. Thank you Tiffany for your ever-inspiring beautiful words! I am always so touched by your kindness 🙂 Audrey’s birth was a true blessing, I was completely taken by surprise with this event, it turned out so beautiful, so serene and mostly natural. I am enjoying these tender moments, listening to the ‘Wonderland’ soundtrack (by Michael Nyman)… Wishing you a beautiful Sunday, Mimi x

  121. Oh Mimi, congratulations on your beautiful Audrey!

    I’ve been checking and checking your blog, wondering when you might appear with your new family member

    Best best wishes to you and all your beautiful children.

    Your wonderful poetic post has me in floods of tears

    love to you, Anita x

  122. Hi Mimi!

    Such a wonderful post!

    I love the way you mentioned that when little Audrey May grows up, she will remember the familiar smell of strawberry field. Smell is a form of memory too.

    Audrey May is such a beautiful name. Is there a meaning behind this name? It is a very feminine name 🙂

    Enjoy your motherhood and family life 🙂 Happy for you and your family ~

    1. Bonjour! Thank you for your kind wishes! Audrey is a true blessing, I hope she will always remember the smell of roses & strawberries! We chose Audrey, mainly because it’s a lovely name (also from one of my favorite actresses), and May because she was born in May. 🙂 all the best Mimi x

  123. Welcome sweet little Audrey May and what a welcome! Of course she would rather come into this world in a loving nest with fresh cut flowers than a cold clinic. I’m happy it all worked out and love the anecdote of the birth certificate. C’est ne pas normal…no certainly not in your life–it’s all magical. Enjoy your little bundle!

  124. Congratulations, Mimi! What a touching story (i cried) and a beautiful writing. Each of your post is a real treat for a soul. Thanks for doing it!

  125. Mimi, I forgot to say, I hope you’re taking things easy, getting lots of help and delegating as much as possible. Did you know that Chinese mums traditionally stay in bed for 1 month after the birth of a baby? What a luxury, one I could have done with!

    1. Sorry for my late reply Zelda – I have been on a tight schedule lately 🙂 And the Chinese way of dealing with post-birth… I hear you! My mother keeps telling me I should take it easy 🙂 I have read about the popular post baby ‘clinics’ where mothers are treated like a princesses, drinking healing soups filled with fortifying herbal medecine, having massages everyday… I am far from that world, but I am feeling rather well, and thanks to Audrey’s good sleeping habits at night I get to have a good sleep. I swear by my fennel, ginger & honey infusions I drink all day long. Lots of love from Médoc, Mimix

  126. Bonjour Mimi! I am just over the moon thrilled for you and your family! I am so glad everything went well with your precious Audrey’s birth – what an amazing experience & story! 🙂 xoxo, dana

    1. Thank you sweet Dana! Audrey is a month old now – I can’t believe how much she has grown! Will share some pics soon. Wishing you a lovely week-end, Mimi x

  127. Mimi – all of your posts are so beautiful and make me smile everytime, but something about this one is particularly gorgeous. Your baby is the sweetest and what a beautiful name ‘Audrey May’. Thanks for allowing us a glimpse into your home especially during this special time with the new babe.

  128. Welcome to the world little Audrey! Congratulations to your family! What a wonderful time to be born amongst the roses. Thank you Mimi for this glorious post, I adore duck so look forward to trying this, new potatoes are in season here. I have baby number 2 on the way and due at Christmas so will greatly enjoy the glimpses you show us of Audrey! Congratulations again! What a happy time.

    1. Oh thank you so much Phillipa! Wishing you a happy and smooth pregnancy! Audrey May is a month old now – so sweet and starting to pull a few smiles 🙂 Enjoy the duck recipe! Mimix

  129. Dear Mimi,
    what a wonderful, beautiful story!
    I am deeply touched.
    All the best wishes to you and your beautiful little daughter.

    Would you share the magic mafia chicken and cherry clafoutis with us?
    Thank you and lots of love
    Rebekka

    1. Bonjour Rebecca! Thank you for your kind words! Here’s the link for the cherry clafoutis http://mimithorisson.com/2013/07/16/duck-burger-cherry-clafoutis/ and for the mafia chicken – it’s very simple. Prepare a basic tomato sauce (I add red wine, garlic, 2 cans drained tomatoes, oregano and olive oil, sal & pepper) and cook for 30 minutes. Drizzle olive oil on the chicken breasts and sprinkle with rosemary and oregano. Sauté the breasts for 6 minutes on each side and place in an oven-proof dish. Add the tomato sauce on top and add a generous layer of parmesan and mozzarella on top. Cook in a preheated oven 200°C until golden. Voilà! Enjoy, Mimi x

  130. Congratulations Mimi
    So happy that Audrey arrived safely . Must have been a wonderful experience.
    Please do take care of yourself.
    Very best wishes to you and your family.

  131. Dear Mimi,

    You have the most beautiful blog! I love the photos and your writing. Congratulations on the birth of sweet Audrey May. I can’t wait to try the fruit tian.

    Jill

  132. Congratulations on your beautiful baby girl. I had my first child in January and now understand what a privilege and joy motherhood is. I wish you all the best with your new little one.

  133. Audrey May looks beautiful in pink and love her dark hair! I love your pictures, stories and recipes. Thank you for sharing all. My best, Patti

    1. Thank you Patti! Audrey is doing great – as a matter of fact she is wearing a lovely Vichy print pink pyjama and it’s definitely her best color! 🙂 Bon dimanche, Mimi x

  134. Another beautiful entry on your blog – And another beautiful baby!
    Congratulations and every best wish to you all.

  135. Congratulations Mimi! What a beautiful time for you all.

    Thank you so much for sharing such beautiful words, pictures and food with us.

    Warmest, Madeleine

  136. Felicidades querida Mimi. Una historia maravillosa .Su peqeña Audey May tiene la familia mas hermosa que se puede desear,unos padres que la adoran y unos hermanos revoloteando a su alrededor dandole besos y caricias. Es tan dulce y tierna la fotografia en la que sostienes a tu bebe entre tus brazos. Me fascina tu fuerza y valentia. He de decirte tambien que este. fin de semana he cocinado todas las recetas de esta ultima entrada. Anoche fuimos a cenar a casa de unos amigos y lleve la tarta de fresas acompañada de nata montada, totalmente deliciosa. Hoy para comer hice el resto el magret, las patatas y el tian de frutas, valoracion familiar un diez

    1. Dearest Rosa! Muchas gracias por su mensaje, siempre estoy tan conmovida por su amabilidad. Audrey May es así, un mes de edad ahora! Siempre estoy feliz de escuchar buenos comentarios en las recetas – Me alegro de que haya disfrutado de la tarta y pato. Mimi x

  137. Congratulations Mimi with your wonderful babygirl! Such a magical experience you gave Audrey on her first day in this world! It gave me goosebumps. Your a very special strong woman and I wish you all the luck with your lovely family!

    Warm regards,
    Anita

    1. Thank you Anita! I still can’t believe I managed to pull a speedy unplanned birth at home – I was very lucky! I’ll have a lot of stories to tell Audrey! Much love, Mimi x

  138. Brilliant story Mimi. Congratulations on the baby. Beautiful name too. I recently became a grandad to a wonderful little girl of our daughter’s. She is called Ava. I love the classic names.

  139. Woah, that is an amazing story. Best of all things to you, your family and specily baby Audrey. May her life be full off fresh picked strawberry scent.

  140. Oh Mimi! How absolutely wonderful! What a lucky little girl Audrey May is to arrive so lovingly into your beautiful family! So happy to meet her 🙂 Much love and happiness to you and your lovely family XX

  141. Such a lovely story and most hearty congratulations to you and family. What a beautiful drama! I was beginning to wonder . . . . but indeed you have been one of the busy bees.

  142. Unlike the rest who would have probably been reading your blog and following you for forever, I’m rather a new follower and fan. And I’ve never commented before (now that I am, I secretly wish that you’d find time to read it out of the other 350+ comments!).

    I just love the way you write, Mimi. Reading every blog post of yours never fails to make my days- so dreamy, so beautifully worded and phrased and yet so real. And I don’t want to even begin about your beautiful life in Medoc! I’m hoping a simple but strong “aaah!” would suffice to describe how it makes me feel 🙂

    Congratulations on your beautiful newborn! I am so looking forward to the day when your cookbook is finally out. Congratulations on the find and purchase of your family’s stunning house. It’s now included in my list of dreams to be made true to visit and enjoy a meal or two at your seasonal restaurant someday.

    1. Hello and welcome! I am so touched to hear from you – and thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words. It’s always a pleasure for me to share our lives here in Médoc – writing and cooking are my big passions 🙂 Please come for a visit someday – it will be lovely to greet you! Mimi x

  143. Chère Mimi,
    Quelle incroyable venue au monde! Bienvenue à votre petite Audrey May, qui a déjà entre les mains une boîte pleine de merveilleux souvenirs: une naissance si belle et naturelle, le parfum des fraises… J’espère que tout se passe à merveille pour toute votre famille si joliment agrandie, et je vous souhaite un immense bonheur dans votre nouvelle vie.

    1. Merci chère Kenza! Notre petite Audrey May se porte à merveille, elle a déja un mois – que le temps passe vite! Elle m’inspire à écrire une petite histoire, parfumée de roses et de fraises 🙂 Bon dimanche, Mimi x

    1. Merci Lesley! So happy to hear you enjoyed this post. I am a bit like a sorcière (but a nice & kind one!) 🙂 – how I wish I could twirl my fingers and get the kitchen & house magically cleaned! Bon dimanche, Mimi x

  144. Many Congratulations to you, your family and very best wishes on the arrival of Audrey May ! Your posts are inspiring and lovely. I always look forward to recreating your mouth watering dishes. Thank you for sharing your love of food and beautiful family !

  145. Wonderful post! Congratulations on Audrey May’s birth, what a great way to give birth ! And thank you so much for sharing all the beautiful stories,pictures and of course recipies…

  146. Bonjour Mimi!! Congratulations on the birth of Audrey. I had suspected you had the baby when we did not see a new post. I am so excited for the launch of the restaurant and cooking classes. Don’t forget me as I want to be on of the first to sign up!!! I have already pre-ordered the cookbook!!!! Melissa

  147. Bonjour Mimi! What beautiful news. Congratulations to your little Audrey May. What a nice name! I wish you and your family all the best. It’s so great to read your post and I’m really happy to hear these news. We just came back from our lovely holiday at Brittany. I also tested the kouign aman, you told me. It’s very delicious! St. Malo was very nice. We stayed in a very nice B&B which named Villa Christilla and is located in Saint-Lunaire. Very beautiful! Now I’m really looking forward, that you open your restaurant to visit you and your family. France is a really nice country! Kind greetings, Nadine

  148. Congratulations to you and your family! You look amazing, and your tireless energy never ceases to amaze me. Now with 4 and restaurant/cooking classes on the horizon… wow!! I can barely cope with 3 kids.

  149. I have not visited for awhile. Congratulations and the best of all life has to offer to you and your family!

  150. I didn’t even know about the baby… Congratulations!!! I wish you guys all the very best. This is all so wonderful. So many great things happening in your lives these days with the book, the show and now this… You live an incredible life!

  151. Congratulations! I shared your photos and story on my wechat account. All my Chinese girlfriends wish to find out how you juggle 7 kids and 14 dogs at the same time. They have been asking me if you have an army of helpers around and I simply replied none. Hehe… Was I correct? Hehe…

  152. But a part of me believes that one day she’ll be standing in a field of strawberries, the wind blowing in her hair and filling her nose with the sweet scent of fresh strawberries and she will think “I don’t know why, but this feels strangely familiar”. This made me cry…

  153. Congrats to you and your family! Thank you for recent Chateau recommendations for wine tastings for our upcoming trip to Medoc. Any suggestions for a wonderful lunch? Merci, Denise

  154. Congratulations on your new baby! What is the pattern and manufacturer on the blue bird dishes in this post? They are lovely. I think I need to add them to my collection if I can find some.

  155. Mimi, Oddur and family, here’s hoping you are all well and Audrey May is behaving, allowing everyone else to sleep! I laughed out loud at Oddur’s description of the registration of Audrey May’s birth!
    May there be another post soon!

  156. Quelles magnifique naissance! Bienvenue à Audrey May. Naître entourée de roses fraîches et de fraises, dans la maison famililiale, c’est une entrée grandiose dans la vie. Prenez bien soin de vous Mimi, et Félicitations.

  157. Being a silent reader since quite some time – today i want to express my warmest congratulations from the heart to the birth of sweet audrey may! what a lovely name and what – like always – a wonderful post. i wish you and your family all the best – greetings from germany, barbara

  158. How wonderful for you and your husband, another daughter and such a beautiful name. I have 3 daughters, how special they all are. I have been away and not read your blog for some months. It is always a delight to read your blog but even more so today. Congratulations!!!

  159. You’re an incredible woman, my new hero! I cannot believe you were cooking that last meal up until you were about to pop! However, I do believe that avoiding the hospital is the key to having a quicker delivery. I shall keep that in mind my for next child. ; ) You make having 7 children seem like a breeze when the 1 child I have seems to be a handful! I’m guessing you learn to adapt with each one? : )

  160. Hello Mimi, thanks for these splendid recipes, I tried “les prunes velours” and “la tarte aux oignons au vin rouge” no difficulties and “beaucoup d’effet”… I’ll try other soon!!! Odile

  161. Hello. This is my first visit to your blog and what a surprise! Warmest congratulations to you and your growing family. I too have a beautiful princess born on May 26th. That was 21 yrs ago, though it seems like just yesterday -sigh-Her name is Olivia Grace.

  162. I just discovered your blog and OMG!!! I feel so privilege to enter your world. I enjoy reading it and above all see the beautiful pictures. I do love so much how your doggies are in so many photos and being that I am a doggie mama of three I truly feel it just makes the photos your husband takes so much meaningfully. Take good care of yourself the beautiful daughter of yours she sure is precious. XOXO Lara

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