local milk logo
local milk logo
  • Recipes
    • Season
    • Ingredient
    • Dish Type
    • Special Diets
    • Region
    • Occasion + Course
  • Travel
    • Wander Guides
    • Travel Tips
    • L|M Retreats
  • Motherhood
    • Pregnancy
    • Parenting
    • Littles
  • Lifestyle
    • Slow-Living
    • Sustainability
    • Health and Beauty
    • Wardrobe
    • Fresh Milk
  • Dwell
    • Inspiring Spaces
    • Decor
    • Eco-Home
    • Create
  • About
    • My Story
    • FAQ
    • Press + Awards
    • Contact
    • Retreats
  • L|M Shop
  • Beth Kirby Site
  • follow local milk on instagram
  • follow local milk on pinterest
  • follow local milk on facebook
  • follow local milk on instagram
  • follow local milk on twitter
search icon
  • follow local milk on instagram
  • follow local milk on pinterest
  • follow local milk on facebook
  • follow local milk on instagram
  • follow local milk on twitter

Local Milk | The Art of Slow Living

Popular Posts

travel with baby
35 Baby Travel Tips | Infant to 1-Year-Old + Minimalist Baby Packing List
Chocolate-Dipped Pistachio Shortbread + A Giveaway by Beth Kirby
Chocolate-Dipped Pistachio Shortbread + A Giveaway
The Ultimate Paris, France Travel Guide: All the Must See Instagram, Travel Photography, Food, Cafes, Things to do, and Shopping Spot plus Travel Tips for the First Time Visitor! #travel #paris #france
Wander Guide | The Essential Paris Travel Guide & Map
Gathering from Scratch | A Workshop Retreat in the Shenandoah Valley Part 2

Meet Beth

beth bio picture

local milk is a journal devoted to home cookery, travel, family, and slow living—to being present & finding sustenance of every kind. It’s about nesting abroad & finding the exotic in the everyday. Most of all it’s about the perfection of imperfections and seeing the beauty of everyday, mundane life.

  • follow local milk on instagram
  • follow local milk on pinterest
  • follow local milk on facebook
  • follow local milk on instagram
  • follow local milk on twitter

local milk ad preset collections

Table of contents

  1. Cook
  2. Wander
  3. Dwell
  4. Slow-Living
  5. Motherhood
  6. Sustainability
  7. Wardrobe
  8. Health and Beauty

Most Popular Posts

  1. 35 Baby Travel Tips | Infant to 1-Year-Old + Minimalist Baby Packing List
  2. Chocolate-Dipped Pistachio Shortbread + A Giveaway
  3. Wander Guide | The Essential Paris Travel Guide & Map
  4. Gathering from Scratch | A Workshop Retreat in the Shenandoah Valley Part 2
  5. Cardamom + Rose Iced Latte / Japanese Ice Coffee

Insta-Milk

A long time ago in a different life (or at least i A long time ago in a different life (or at least it feels that way) I was riding in a car at night with @whereissionnie to meet up with @ruthielindsey and @1924us for bonfires and general cabin shenanigans outside of Nashville. 

I remember the drive so well. It’s a conversation that always stuck with me. We talked about trauma and crisis. And I don’t know much, but I shared the only thing I know, a thing that has served me well through the natural undulations life is bound to bring.

And that is simply sometimes you have to cling to the mast. You aren’t doing anything but surviving but that’s the most important work of all. Because the storm WILL pass. And you‘ll be left standing.

And when it does you can mend the sails. Untangle the ropes. And get on with the business of sailing.

I’ve learned to give myself permission to do nothing but make it through. To sleep a little too late. To dance in front of the mirror and feel myself even when I look ridiculous. To load and unload the dishwasher and allow that to be a great victory. To dress like a cartoon character in nothing but white t-shirts and denim shorts.  To eat mac & cheese from a box and frozen chicken nuggets sometimes. To not respond to text messages. To flail and get back up over and over. To ask for help. A lot.

And also permission to feel it all. Rage. Grief. Joy. Hope and hopelessness. And sometimes all within the span of a few minutes. 

And most of all, whether navigating calm waters or stormy ones, what matters more than anything is the crew you’re doing it with. Surround yourself with solid people.

People that challenge you with compassion. And humor. People whose strengths buttress your weakness. People that don’t judge you. That believe in you even when you think they’re maniacs for doing so.

I know a disproportionate amount of us have had rough seas this year. Cling to the mast in the storm. Choose your crew wisely. No storm ever lasted forever. But there never was a last storm in the world. Accept that they will come and be prepared.

Earl Grey Waffles & Whipped Honey Cream + 3 yrs of Local Milk

Recipes

05.03.2015

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

chemex + earl grey waffles

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

chemex + earl grey waffles

Three years came and went. And the truth is I was busy, lovesick, on the road, and didn’t notice this year. April 12, that was the 3 year mark. I don’t even know what country I was in. I know that I’m currently in Portugal, and that I’m hopping over to Croatia for five days after this and then on to Italy & France to teach two more workshops before finally, finally running home. Home to breakfasts and weekdays and the gym and yoga and morning coffee and and and home to normal. Home to the romance of the ordinary & weekend waffles.

This project, this blog, abides as a constant, but my life continues to surprise me in its unfolding. And Earl Grey waffles, a personal favorite comfort food infused with a personal favorite comfort tea, seemed as good a recipe as any to both celebrate 3 years of this space and my current love affair with home, with home defined as being where the heart is. In my life, I’ve taken everything as it comes, when it comes, never pretending at forevers. Okay, sometimes pretending at them but always aware of the precarious nature of pretending. I expected the landscape of my life to forever morph, seashore in the tide, time doing the eroding it’s so adept at, taking and leaving bits and pieces of my world and self as it saw fit. And so it has. Until now.

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

chemex + earl grey waffles

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

Something curious happened. That lovesick bit I mentioned above. Time, finally, didn’t only take. It brought things back to me, little artifacts & pieces of myself so long lost I wondered if they’d ever existed at all or if I’d just imagined them. I found them again one afternoon in early February, and that unexpected event necessitated many things including briefly but very thoroughly losing my mind, much weeping, and then most finally changing my entire life and being happier than I’ve ever been in some odd 32 years. I’ve weighed the idea of writing about those changes here. There are myriad good reasons not to. But I’ve reached the conclusion that this space is my home, and my experiences are all I know. In short, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to write again if I don’t write about what’s happening now.

The short version is simply this: I, most unexpectedly and three weeks before leaving the country for 3 months (impeccable timing), fell in love with a man that is a perfectly impossible ball of contradictions, and I didn’t know what home, love, or forever was until I met him. When I did finally see him—I mean really see him—I knew I’d missed him my entire life. I knew. I knew in a fundamental way I’ve never experienced in my life. People say these things for a reason. What they don’t tell you is that “just knowing” sometimes takes the form of going crazy trying to talk yourself out of it for a couple of weeks.

I’d recently started to average about 6 months a year on the road. Terminal after terminal, endless glass walls and escalators—my blood ran electric in even the most mundane of travel scenarios. I have an apothecary routine that can be executed in an airport bathroom in five minutes that simulates all but the psychological effects of a hot shower & a good night’s sleep. I have life on the road down to a science, but oftentimes I don’t know what time or day it is at all. Sometimes I even forget what season or hemisphere I’m in, and I never know how to greet people. Is it one kiss or two? Can I hug? Shake hands? Bow? I like bowing. Nomad. It’s was my thing. Was being the operative word.

Though I’m currently still on it, the road leaves me cold. The thrill is gone. Everything I see seems utterly useless without being able to share it. I never thought about that boring old adage “home is where the heart is” until my heart was somewhere else. Now it makes too much awful sense. No wonder I felt so at home on the road; I carried my heart with me wherever I went. Now it’s firmly situated elsewhere, and no matter how rich & alive the countries I wander to are, I’m not whole. I’ve always prided myself on being present, now I flicker in and out like a ghost.

My life previously was known. It was comfortable and easy. Familiar. Safe. I found myself more and more married to my work & travel. It had become my child, my life. There was a vein of discontent running through it all, to be sure, but I accepted it. We have to grow up, after all. These are the things we tell ourselves. I wrote impossible worlds at night to keep my blood warm enough. I ran through my life in a manic, workaholic frenzy. It seemed alright. Productive. Responsible. Busy, busy, busy. I wasn’t looking to change anything.

Then, this past February, I walked into a coffee shop back home in Chattanooga dressed, in my usual fashion, like a Jedi or Japanese grandmother depending on who you ask. I chatted with the owner (a preternaturally friendly guy…) and, the picture of grace, managed to hit myself in the face with a shopping bag whilst doing so due to my habit of wild gesticulation. We’d talked a few times before. As I recall, I was always saying very attractive things like “I just bought fancy sweatpants!” or “Talking to people makes me sweat profusely.”  Oblivious, in a word. And not looking. That’s when these things tend to happen, it would seem.

We became friends, and I fell in love with that preternaturally friendly man. Instantly. I was toast. And I knew it.  So much so that I, in my infinite wisdom, immediately called a therapist, cried a lot, and sent my closest friends spaghetti emojis to illustrate the state of my brain. I’d work out to prime, vintage Katy Perry tracks until I almost fainted in attempts to forget about him. It seemed impossible. And dangerous. Until about three weeks later when I decided, a week before leaving the country for three months (that awesome timing again), that the only impossible, dangerous thing was to not give us a chance. When I say forever now, there is no disillusioned girl in the back of my mind saying “you can’t really know that”. As it turns out, you can really know that. From a cellular level to a spiritual level, I know. It’s a love I feel made for, designed for. A perfect fit. In all my life, I’ve never felt this way. I’m shocked this is even a way people can feel. I didn’t even know this was a thing. So settled. So done. So homesick.

Now I just want to go home to Tennessee and make waffles while he makes the coffee. He happens to be very good at that.

Print
earl grey waffles & whipped honey cream

Yield: about 10 large waffles

Comfort heaped upon comfort, buttermilk brown sugar waffles infused with the floral, bergomot scent of Earl Grey tea and warm vanilla. These need nothing more than to be topped with lightly sweetened honey cream and served alongside a cup of excellent coffee or tea. They're an ode to Sunday mornings in both how simple they are to make as well as how special they taste.

Ingredients

  • 480 grams all purpose flour
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons finely ground earl grey tea + 2 bags for steeping
  • 200 grams dark brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 170 grams (12 tablespoons) melted butter, at room temperature
  • 240 grams whole milk
  • 240 grams buttermilk
  • For Whipped Honey Cream
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • honey to taste (I like about 3 tablespoons)

Instructions

  1. Bring the milk to a simmer, remove from the heat, and add in the two tea bags. Let steep for about 5 to 10 minutes. Remove tea bags, squeezing them gently to get flavor out. Set the milk tea aside.
  2. Meanwhile as the milk steeps, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground tea in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In another mixing bowl combine the dark brown sugar, vanilla, eggs, butter, buttermilk, and the cooled milk tea. Stir to combine thoroughly.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir to combine until no dry bits remain. Don't over stir the batter, a few lumps are fine.
  5. Heat your waffle iron and cook waffles according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  6. While the waffles cook, whip your cream lightly in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer. You can obviously just do it by hand but that will take a little elbow grease. It's what I usually do so I can tell myself I worked out while making waffles. Once it reaches soft peaks, gently whisk the honey in by hand. Whipped cream should be soft and fluffy, not stiff and over-whipped.
  7. You can keep waffles warm in a low oven while you wait for them all to cook, but they're best served hot and crispy right off the iron.
  8. Enjoy with coffee or tea, whatever your poison be!
3.1
https://localmilkblog.com/2015/05/earl-grey-waffles-whipped-honey-cream-3-yrs-of-local-milk.html

 

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

earl grey waffles + whipped honey cream

All photos of me or my hands by Eric Charles Peterson.

LIVE MORE MAGIC

Get recipes, guides, and tips for elevating the everyday delivered straight to your inbox—Plus our exclusive monthly newsletter, "The Art of Slow Living"! (tips & articles on how to design a life you love, be time rich, & live abundantly!)

You have Successfully Subscribed!

tags: belgian, breakfast, brunch, buttermilk, earl grey, honey, tea, vanilla bean, waffles, whipped cream

109 thoughts on “Earl Grey Waffles & Whipped Honey Cream + 3 yrs of Local Milk”

  1. Katrina @ Warm Vanilla Sugar says:
    May 3, 2015 at 9:09 pm

    Earl grey waffles sound like such a delight. These are lovely!

    Reply
  2. Becky Winkler (A Calculated Whisk) says:
    May 3, 2015 at 9:10 pm

    Beautiful waffles, and a beautiful story!

    Reply
    1. Laura ~ Raise Your Garden says:
      May 5, 2015 at 7:15 am

      What a story is right! Whoa. I had to read it twice. And now onto the waffles. Making these for the love of my life who just might be 3 years old =)

      Reply
  3. Shivani says:
    May 3, 2015 at 9:22 pm

    so so much love and warmth to you, Beth — I am so glad you’ve found someone to mirror and hold your infinite complexities and contradictions. and of course — congratulations on three years. what a wild three years!

    Reply
  4. linda says:
    May 3, 2015 at 9:25 pm

    I don’t know you but I love reading about your adventures and viewing your amazing photographs. It sounds like you are beginning your biggest adventure yet. I love coffee so having your own barista sounds like the best thing ever.

    Reply
  5. Kathy says:
    May 3, 2015 at 10:04 pm

    I found your blog and I was instantly hooked on it and even shared with a friend who is a foodie! I look in my inbox, always hopeful there is a new post from you. I’ve just spent 2 weeks in Lisbon on a work/holiday. I wish you well on the rest of your trip and wish you all the happiness you can find on finding your true happiness in the place you call home, life is a great journey and well worth the trip!

    Reply
  6. Monique says:
    May 3, 2015 at 10:49 pm

    Love this post!
    Happiness to you..
    Photos..fabulous as always.

    Reply
  7. Jade Sheldon-Burnsed says:
    May 3, 2015 at 11:14 pm

    *Sigh*

    I feel lucky to say that I know that love. It’s a beautiful, crazy, seemingly impossible love… until you have it and hold it and it becomes a part of you.

    Happy for you, dear, and this wild ride you are living. Just keep being true to yourself.

    Oh, these images stun me. Those moody dark corners… LOVE.

    Reply
  8. nvrm says:
    May 3, 2015 at 11:22 pm

    Magic. This is the first time I not only enjoyed the photos, but the story as well. Will definitely make the waffles too; I know who will love them.

    Reply
  9. Jenny M says:
    May 3, 2015 at 11:35 pm

    Lovely thoughts on meeting & falling for the man who is a purser of good coffee. And yes, forever, is something that you can really know…. I meet my man when I was 15 and we have been married 37 years and I still know that it is forever.

    Reply
  10. SAUL says:
    May 4, 2015 at 1:14 am

    The recipe is delicious, I’m sure, but the photographs are just stunning!
    shopsaul.com

    Reply
  11. Meghan says:
    May 4, 2015 at 2:38 am

    Beth, what does one even say to someone who’s fallen in love? Good luck? May the force be with you? I hardly know. But, I couldn’t leave this space without saying something. So, I guess, if anything, thank you. For your honesty. For your three years. And for everything you’ve shared over those three years; all your words, your photography, your poetry. Because, that’s what this, all this, is; poetry. It’s a forever beating heart. And, with any heart, it’s bound to fall in love and it’s bound to break, and we tend to convince ourselves that the breaking is bad. We tend to believe that being anything other than steel makes us highly exposed to the mystery that is love, that is life. But it’s not true. We don’t have to steel ourselves. To be soft, to be still; you don’t have to forego your strength. You can both soft and strong. You can be both wild and wildly in love.

    But, as I was saying. Thank you. I can only hope that you continue to share on this space, and if not here, than certainly with those you love. And I hope you continue to follow your heart, forever, however far forever may be. Because if anyone deserves the truth that rests there, it’s you.

    Reply
  12. Miranda says:
    May 4, 2015 at 5:03 am

    I have been itching to just sit down and go online ever since I cautght up with my instagram feed this morning and had an inkling of this post. Because I just knew it ahah, and I adore that I feel vindicated when a couple of weeks ago, while reading some comment of yours on one of your instagram posts I found myself thinking “This girl’s in love. I hope it’s reciprocal.”. As weird as this may make me in anyone’s eyes, I believe I have a thing for reading people across a screen I do not possess when face to face with those same people. And I am very good at knowing what moves people, and who are those tha are truly genuine and those that aren’t. I discovered your blog fairly recently, granted, but it immediately struck a chord with me, and I found myself falling for it, for the inkling of a life so different from my own – I hate travelling, I am fairly untalented, I verge on the antisocial – from a culture so different and a lifestyle miles away from my own, and yet resonating inside me with some sort of… recognition. I come here time and again for your recipes, they make me curious, your pairings are odd to my palate, or virtually unthought of to me, and yet sing with this southern mystique that entrances me deeply (New Orleans, plantations, Anne Rice and vampires, don’t ask. Also Scarlett and Rhett.), I come here for the photography that weaves a strong spell at my heartchords, but mosty, I come here for the words. They’re like water. I admire people who are not afraid to own themselves, their feelings, their true beings. I admire people who put themselves out there because there is no other way for them to be. Honest people. Lives that aren’t styled or edited for the sake of a blog audience and sponsorships. People you can feel you know them just a little, and that sound very genuine, all the time. Even though you might never meet them face to face. People who are not afraid of being honest and real about who they are, the good, the bad, the beautyful, the ugly – it’s all there for anyone to see, and I can’t help but like these people better than the rest. Even if their beliefs are worlds away from mine, even if our likings have nothing in common, these are the people that move and inspire me, and you are certainly one of them. It does happen, that sense of forever. It does. And life will happen, inside that love, and maybe there will be times when you wonder about it all, but if it’s the one, it’ll be there all the time, that feeling. As long as it lasts, at least!! To paraphrase one of my favourite poets, the great Vinicius de Moraes “(…) que seja eterno enquanto dure.” (may it be eternal as long as it lasts, here’s the link to the whole poem if you feel curious: http://www.releituras.com/viniciusm_fidelidade.asp). Best of times for you, Beth, and congratulations on your three years of this mighty amazing blog of yours. May it also be forever as long as it lasts!! and I’m sorry for my ever soooo long comments, can’t seem to be able to help mysef!
    http://bloglairdutemps.blogspot.pt/

    Reply
  13. Rebecca says:
    May 4, 2015 at 5:14 am

    What a beautiful and honest post. It spoke to me so much as a similar thing happened to me. We fell in love and he left the country planning never to come back. Nine months later he did and nine years later we married. Sometimes you really do know it’s forever and it’s terrifying and somehow works out perfectly.

    Reply
  14. Sara says:
    May 4, 2015 at 6:03 am

    Ah, yes. When it’s right, it’s right, and suddenly there’s no more excuses. Enjoy your time at home – comfort food and all. x

    Reply
  15. noni says:
    May 4, 2015 at 6:22 am

    I don’t know you but I love reading about your adventures and viewing your amazing photographs. Your pictures so beautiful as always. Love it

    Reply
  16. Ondina Maria says:
    May 4, 2015 at 6:32 am

    Hi there Beth,
    I really hope you enjoy my country! The weather has been miserable with this non-stop rain but you can still enjoy our lovely food. I’ve been in Coimbra for the weekend, and even with all the rain it was still beautiful. Now I’m back in Porto so if you stop by and need any help, info, coffee, just let me know 🙂

    Reply
  17. JK Blackwell says:
    May 4, 2015 at 7:00 am

    Beautiful heartfelt piece. Happy 3 Year xo

    Reply
  18. Jenny Depa-Karl says:
    May 4, 2015 at 7:37 am

    So blissfully happy for you! Welcome home!

    Reply
  19. J.S. Oxford— The House of Muses says:
    May 4, 2015 at 7:57 am

    Oh how beautiful! This looks like such a lovely moment. I particularly love your kettle. 🙂 Enjoy your time at home. x

    Reply
  20. Mallory @forkvsspoon says:
    May 4, 2015 at 8:51 am

    So lovely and honest … I agree with Meghan…what does one say to someone who has fallen in love?

    Reply
  21. Dhanya Samuel says:
    May 4, 2015 at 9:05 am

    So very happy for you. Love…does bring the world to your doorsteps.

    Reply
  22. Debra @The Saffron Girl says:
    May 4, 2015 at 9:13 am

    I’m always in awe when I read a new post of yours. Your talent to envelope us into a story, open your heart, share your soul, and do it so eloquently and beautifully makes me want to read more. And stay here with you. Your words are like poetry. And well the photography is simply amazing. I have my own space too and I feel so inadequate in comparison. I still have tons to teach myself and learn, although some things I think are innate, like your ability with words.

    I know the comparison is silly because we are all unique and what makes us special is being ourselves and different. I don’t want to be you or anyone else. I like myself (finally realising that) and who I am and into what I develop and evolve with each passing day and experience. But I will admit that I aspire to reach the level of ease with which you write and take pictures. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
  23. Michelle says:
    May 4, 2015 at 9:19 am

    Love is beautiful! So happy for you, thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  24. Jude says:
    May 4, 2015 at 9:51 am

    Such a beautiful post on all accounts. Achingly beautiful. It’s amazing how committments seem all important and then diminish when we are missing the ones we love. Sometimes being apart makes for some of the most spectacular love letters. I suspect yours are exquisite.

    Reply
  25. @sarahspy says:
    May 4, 2015 at 10:09 am

    aw. this story warms my heart and gives me hope! (it also makes me crave earl grey tea & waffles!) <3

    Reply
  26. Sune Moolman says:
    May 4, 2015 at 10:13 am

    Three years of happy readers. Thank so much for every single post Beth.

    Reply
  27. Joanna says:
    May 4, 2015 at 10:15 am

    I think your websites is the only one where I nourish my eyes with your stunning photographs but also i read (and sometimes re-read) what you write. Beautiful! True…simple…! All the best with the love stuff! 🙂

    http://www.allnnothing.com

    Reply
  28. Chelsea says:
    May 4, 2015 at 12:43 pm

    You have built such a beautiful space and it has become such a lovely part of my ritual Beth. I am so thankful that love has come to you during such a wild time (as it does, always). My heart is happy for you sweet girl!

    Reply
  29. Kerry says:
    May 4, 2015 at 12:47 pm

    What a poetic juxtaposition of the textured weave of your chunky knit scarf and the stack of waffles…no wonder such materializations appear as you begin to weave your heart with another’s.

    Reply
  30. Albert says:
    May 4, 2015 at 12:59 pm

    I love all your photos! Happy three years to you! 🙂

    Best, Albert | Palming Pebbles

    Reply
  31. nomad'sland says:
    May 4, 2015 at 1:36 pm

    You make me wonder : and if true love really exist ?
    Best wishes ! and “Bon appétit!”
    (4) kisses from France,

    Reply
  32. Patty/NS says:
    May 4, 2015 at 1:40 pm

    Wishing your relationship all the very best life that brings you after you make that final landing called home.

    Reply
  33. yvonne cornell says:
    May 4, 2015 at 1:41 pm

    Ahhhhhh Beth — Brilliantly brash, as love was intended — hang on to that man!! Today, 23 years ago, I experienced the very same, and tonight we celebrate. Your spring awakening is a real gem, treasure it forever. Here too, thanks to your post whilst you were in Japan, a personal awakening of a small, simple edible kind . . . . http://followingbreadcrumbs.com/go-bananas-or-go-home/

    Reply
  34. Jackie says:
    May 4, 2015 at 3:10 pm

    WOW!! This looks deeeelish! These waffles are huge! Why kind of waffle iron do you use? Just curious.

    Reply
  35. Grace says:
    May 4, 2015 at 4:27 pm

    I never believed in love, all my life I thought it was some made-up thing. Maybe because I never witnessed it from my parents or because my first serious boyfriend and I cheated on each other like it was some kind of olympic sport. But 5 years ago I found love, like lovey-dovey, kiss and cuddle, hold hands across the table, make people nauseous kind of love. And I love it. And I’m so so so happy for you.

    Reply
  36. Pam says:
    May 4, 2015 at 5:06 pm

    Your images are breathtaking. Your writing heart wrenching. And yet you might be the coolest person I’ve come across in a while. Stay strong.

    Reply
  37. sara says:
    May 4, 2015 at 5:20 pm

    Oh my word!!!! This is such a treat to read, I look forward to your writing as much as your pictures. You’re my inspiration in so many ways. xoxo Congratulations on Love

    Reply
  38. ashley o. says:
    May 4, 2015 at 5:24 pm

    can i just say how full and joyous my heart is for you?! things like this do exist, truly and wholly exist. i married my forever almost 11 years ago (at the ridiculous age of 20). this is not a sappy love story, butterflies and sunshine, but more of heartache and damage, turned into something quite glorious, something that i had dreamt of and thank the heavens it was here all along, just had to look deep. and now, im busy making babes and cooking food, my heart is full of peace and grace for my own self……..and i love it. xx

    Reply
  39. Libby Moon says:
    May 4, 2015 at 8:26 pm

    Hi …I have recently found your blog. I live in Auckland New Zealand. I love everything about your style, your writing, your photography, and the way you share your world! I’m going to start a blog about food and life…not sure what the angle is yet….anyway…I love that you shared your new love story…its inspiring, encouraging, beautiful and spreads the hope of the magical twists and turns of living this life . I am at a time in my life of complete and utter heartbreak…..so to read your soul bearing words restores hope and vision…I am crazy about food, and about surrounding my life with beauty, richness, friends, color and all those things that feed the soul…thank you for your blog. It is blessing, and inspires me so very much. Enjoy your new love!!!!

    Reply
  40. Nadia says:
    May 4, 2015 at 11:58 pm

    You have me in tears here Beth!
    What perfect words – my favourite being “..and I didn’t know what home, love, or forever was until I met him.”
    Perfection.

    So much love to you lady and thank you as always for such gorgeous work. Travel home safely to your love!

    Reply
  41. Donna Good says:
    May 5, 2015 at 1:42 am

    lovely words, story and pictures…!

    Reply
  42. Stephanie says:
    May 5, 2015 at 6:53 am

    I have just discovered your blog and am working my way through your stories. You are a wonderful story teller with both words and pictures.

    I have also started to make up your recipes as they as divine. Now run like the wind…..I am sure there is coffee brewing.

    all the best

    Reply
  43. callie says:
    May 5, 2015 at 3:07 pm

    The story, the love, was warming; the waffles divine.

    Reply
  44. Leanne T says:
    May 5, 2015 at 4:22 pm

    Congratulations on 3 years, your pictures, recipies and stories always awe and inspire me. There is such raw beauty in your storytelling and I thank you for that, for sharing your life so honestly with us. I hope that you are able to find joy in the rest of your travels, even through the homesickness. Safe travels home to the arms of your new love.

    Reply
  45. amy says:
    May 5, 2015 at 6:16 pm

    While reading this poetry my heart fluttered and my toes squeezed tightly. This is how I know something speaks to my soul.. Thank you Beth for everything you have given us these last 3 years. Never stop. Much love.
    Now onto these brilliant waffles…

    Reply
  46. Sasha Swerdloff || TENDING the TABLE says:
    May 5, 2015 at 9:13 pm

    Ah love! It’s a crazy thing. I’m constantly impressed by your willingness and ability to share such personal details about your life. It’s something I haven’t quite come to terms with for myself. Enjoy the rest of your travels and enjoy being home even more…

    Reply
  47. kristie {birch and wild} says:
    May 5, 2015 at 11:00 pm

    What a beautiful sentiment. I love this post, and not just for the gorgeous food/photos.

    Reply
  48. Joanne Bellotti says:
    May 6, 2015 at 12:00 am

    I’m so happy for you, Beth.

    Reply
  49. Patricia says:
    May 6, 2015 at 6:59 am

    Looks so cozy 🙂

    Reply
  50. Aleksandra @ Vanilla & Staubzucker says:
    May 6, 2015 at 7:28 am

    Dear Beth, I’m inspired by these waffles soooo much! I hope you will find some inspiration in my beautifull Croatia too (I miss it a lot)! Reading you soon and bon voyage back home!
    Cheerio!

    Reply
  51. Abby says:
    May 6, 2015 at 9:45 am

    Your writing is so beautiful, Beth. I love this post.
    And such perfect photos. I’m in awe.

    Reply
  52. felicia | Dish by Dish says:
    May 6, 2015 at 5:32 pm

    Such a beautiful story…I hope you get to be with your man very soon! Beth, you deserve so much happiness. And those waffles, I hope they’ll get you there for now, until you’re back at home making waffles alongside with him making coffee.

    Reply
  53. Pamela Hearron says:
    May 6, 2015 at 6:04 pm

    You speak your truth, and few do. Robert Frost once said “Love is the irresistible desire to be irrestiably desired.” Ain’t that the truth. Kudos, love found you and you recognized it!!

    Reply
  54. Eliza says:
    May 7, 2015 at 7:35 pm

    Earl Grey all the way! As well, congratulations on three years of running a fantastic food blog!

    Reply
  55. Francesca says:
    May 8, 2015 at 5:45 am

    As always beautiful photos, recipe and story. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  56. Renee (will frolic for food) says:
    May 8, 2015 at 1:06 pm

    your writing is a constant inspiration. as is your photography. we’re all so lucky that you’ve found this blog as an avenue for your genius. xo

    Reply
  57. Kelly in Chicago says:
    May 8, 2015 at 3:00 pm

    Yes. Yes! To all of this! Totally wonderful. I do not even have the words.

    (As an inadequate aside, might you share your airport bathroom apothecary routine??)

    Reply
  58. Lili Fujiy says:
    May 8, 2015 at 11:37 pm

    Betty, that’s why i just can’t get enought of your blog. It’s amazing how your histories are from your heart, so trully and beautifully write. Thanks for sharing so delicious words. Cheers from brazil,
    love.

    Reply
  59. Andrea Hardy says:
    May 9, 2015 at 9:59 am

    It’s clear from the comments you’ve heard this a hundred and one times but…! You’ve fallen in love with a boy and I’ve fallen in love with your writing! I could read this story all day 🙂 I came to this post first for the imagery, second for the perfect mothers-day recipe and found a blog I truly loved reading- it’s so inspiring!
    Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  60. angie says:
    May 9, 2015 at 1:41 pm

    Love this. The story, the photos, the waffles! Can you tell me what waffle maker you use?
    Wishing you a happy 3 year anniversary and excited to see what’s ahead for you on this journey!

    Reply
  61. MissLilly says:
    May 10, 2015 at 12:40 pm

    Such an inspiring story!!!

    Reply
  62. Kristen says:
    May 10, 2015 at 5:39 pm

    You are so inspiring and creative!

    Reply
  63. Daniella Porat Penso says:
    May 11, 2015 at 3:54 am

    Beautiful story. amazing photos!
    Go back soon… Love is the best!

    Reply
  64. Anna says:
    May 11, 2015 at 5:57 am

    your pictures are perfection!!!

    https://aspoonfulofnature.wordpress.com/

    Reply
  65. kelli says:
    May 12, 2015 at 2:17 am

    it is an amazing thing, to find that one person in all the world that is meant to be yours. I had that once… hold onto it, stay healthy in body and mind and stay together, but know, that if it is meant to end, be able to see that and let it be an ending with grace. do not hold to tight for too long. i don’t want to be negative in your time of bliss, just come back to these words if you ever need too. you and he, it can last forever, for some it does. for me, not so much.

    Reply
  66. T.U says:
    May 12, 2015 at 3:22 am

    I enjoyed your writings :). Such a beautiful blog that is filled with remarkable words. Congrats to your 3 years mark and many more amazing years ahead.

    Reply
  67. Renee Kemps says:
    May 12, 2015 at 4:24 pm

    This is such a beautiful and striking story. I’m speechless. I think it’s amazing that you feel this way and that you realise it; that you’re feeling homesick; that you are longing for being with him. I can’t wait for you to go home and be with him.

    Reply
  68. Alia says:
    May 14, 2015 at 5:51 am

    I am so happy that you are celebrating three years in this space. And I hope you continue on because I can say, without hesitation, that your blog is my favorite out of all the blogs (don’t tell the others). I love your photos and your writing is amazing. I am so glad you shared this story. It makes a beautiful blog even better to hear the honest life behind it. Thank you for doing what you do!

    Reply
  69. Judit says:
    May 14, 2015 at 7:26 am

    Dear Beth, thank you for sharing this beautiful story and beautiful pictures, it was amazingly touching. Everything you wrote is so true! I am also on the way for years, and I just realized the same: home is where the heart is. Even if you are in a beautiful place, even if you love what you do, if you cannot share it with somebody…slowly life becomes meaningless. And when we finally find the One, we know that we arrived home. I will be back home in 4 months and can’t wait to do the same: to have coffee and waffles on a quiet Sunday morning with him. I wish you that time flies quickly and can’t wait the next post!

    Reply
  70. Caroline Dubuc says:
    May 14, 2015 at 9:44 am

    These waffles look incredible! You are so talented… And your story is beautiful. Your blog is so inspiring!
    Love from France

    Reply
  71. Cynthia says:
    May 14, 2015 at 11:06 am

    Congrats on three years and best wishes on your new love adventure! Coming home to the comfort of waffles and your man…what could be better?

    Reply
  72. Jill @ Sew French says:
    May 15, 2015 at 9:56 am

    Hi Beth! I love your blog and come here often for inspiration. I riffed on your Apple & Rosemary Buttermilk Quick Bread. I made pear & rosemary buttermilk muffins. So good! I shared the recipe on my hand sewing & home cooking blog. I linked back to yours. Thank you for the recipe. It’s a keeper! http://sewfrenchembroidery.blogspot.com/2015/05/pear-rosemary-buttermilk-muffins.html

    Reply
  73. Pingback: Weekend Musings. » Smak
  74. Motte says:
    May 16, 2015 at 3:29 pm

    oh my these look like perfection! I definitely know what I want to for breakfast tomorrow morning… fantastic! Great photos too, and of course congratulations on three years! Such an achievement, keep it up and thank you for all the inspiration!
    x Motte
    http://mottesblog.blogspot.com/

    Reply
  75. Pingback: La Tout-Doux-Liste #6 | La Carte De Tendre
  76. Sophie says:
    May 21, 2015 at 4:35 pm

    You take the most incredible food pictures – I am constantly amazed by the quality of your work. Lots of love xxx
    http://www.fashionnomads.com

    Reply
  77. Rebecca via Sanctuary says:
    May 23, 2015 at 4:36 am

    What a lovely, honest & magical read
    – and your photography always
    has that magic glow, too…
    So happy for you! x

    Reply
  78. Ingrid - For the Love of Pie says:
    May 25, 2015 at 8:21 am

    Oh Beth. Even though I don’t know you, I do know the feeling your experiencing right now. And I can absolutely understand why there is no other place than home where you’d want to be right now. I feel your heart. From your words, your writing, your cooking, I think your a little wiser and more experienced than I am, however, I’d recommend you also enjoy your time on the road, while your still travelling. I think you also will. Home is around the corner. A few more weeks (I think, from reading and looking at your instagram photos). Enjoy those special firsts with the man you love. xx

    Reply
  79. Grace | Sweet Spree says:
    May 26, 2015 at 10:51 am

    Such a lovely post, photos and story.
    Additionally I love the honey whipping cream idea.

    Reply
  80. ListsForAll.com says:
    May 29, 2015 at 11:16 am

    This is why breakfast food can be eaten for any meal! Thanks for sharing this post. If you get a minute I would like to invite you to checkout our list of the Best Cooking Blogs which features the Local Milk Blog http://www.listsforall.com/best-cooking-blogs/. We really like what you do with your blog, and it was an easy choice to add your blog to this list. Thanks again, and keep up the good work!

    Reply
  81. Anja/SPIN says:
    June 1, 2015 at 10:57 am

    Hi,

    I have recently found your blog and it’s amazing! The atmosphere and scenes in your photographs are just stunning! And this post – so wonderful, honest and genuine! So far between these in so many blogs these days…
    Wish you all the best!

    Reply
  82. Ashlyn @ The Pedantic Foodie says:
    June 3, 2015 at 10:17 am

    This was such a lovely read. Thank you for sharing! These waffles look heavenly!

    Reply
  83. Kathleen says:
    June 3, 2015 at 11:34 am

    Hi Beth, I too fell in love and like you I left the country for 3 months. I lived in London during that time to try to work out my feelings. It wasn’t supposed to be like this right? But all you think about is him and your future together. And now home becomes wherever he is. I returned to him and 1 year later we were married. I wish you all the best! Life is about the joy of love.

    Reply
  84. Ashley L. Basla says:
    June 7, 2015 at 11:09 am

    These look amazing- gourmet. Love the idea of infusing tea into breakfast foods, especially waffles- how creative! http://www.sugarpeel.com

    Reply
  85. LoveCompassionateLee says:
    June 11, 2015 at 9:41 am

    Congratulations on 3 years of Local Milk and finding forever love. And, thank you for this comforting recipe that I will enjoy over and over again.

    Happy Thursday Kirby
    http://www.lovecompassionatelee.com/thinkoutloud

    Reply
  86. tfp says:
    June 13, 2015 at 12:45 am

    Three cheers for love. After having spent two months on the road for work, being home is a wonderful thing. That it might involve Earl Grey waffles and coffee for you–I wish that for you. Love will always win.

    Reply
  87. tali says:
    June 13, 2015 at 11:36 pm

    Can you tell us a bit about the beautiful sweater or wrap you are wearing?

    Reply
  88. Honey Duggan says:
    June 16, 2015 at 4:10 am

    Your words and images, as always, inspire the hell out of me. Thank you. As someone whom has found the same kind of forever love, it always gives me chills to read others stories, of when they knew. I knew that very first night I met my husband in a tiny karaoke bar in Philadelphia, and couldn’t sleep a wink all night because I just kept telling myself, “he’s the one,” but then quickly tried to dismiss it over and over again. I’m glad I wasn’t able to. Now almost 7 years later we’re happily married, living in the mountains that border France and Switzerland, with an adorable and happy little girl, and another baby on the way. Life and love is good.

    As for this recipe, well I told my husband he needs to try to pick up a waffle iron on his way home. That’s what bike baskets are for, am I right?

    Also would you mind sharing your tried and true traveling apothecary routine? We travel a good deal back and forth to the United States and around Europe, and although I have a routine down I’m always open to more great ideas!

    Thanks again and congrats on three years and finding true love!!!

    Reply
  89. Tasha says:
    June 17, 2015 at 6:44 pm

    I have followed you on IG for some time and had browsed your main Pinterest page and MARVEL at the simplistic, yet deep beauty of your work!!! This is my first time reading your thoughts…wow! I wonder at the homecoming, the reunion…how glorious! I am a new fan and will be catching up here daily I’m sure:)
    PS – I, too, know the feeling…mine happened at age 16 and I also still recall the moment I realized I LOVED him…still do too (32 years later) 🙂 ♥
    PSS – May I share? Speaking of homecomings, what a wonderful topic. You must have seen so many at the plethora of airports you’ve frequented…I’d love to capture these moments on film. I recently had a good one myself and cherish this♥♥

    Reply
  90. Joanna says:
    June 20, 2015 at 5:48 pm

    I think we need a new post in here- it’s been way too long!

    http://www.allnnothing.com

    Reply
  91. Torn Clark @fantasticoven says:
    June 24, 2015 at 4:13 am

    Totally agree with the above comment – that blog’s posts can only make me stop in my footsteps and read all day long!

    Reply
  92. Chrissy says:
    June 26, 2015 at 5:04 pm

    How artistic your photos! and the waffles look almost like belgium waffles! I will need to try these for sure.

    Reply
  93. Eclectic Hamilton says:
    July 12, 2015 at 8:42 am

    I love this story, the pictures and your blog!

    Greetings & Love & a wonderful sunday
    Ines
    Blog: http://www.eclectichamilton.de
    Shop: http://www.eclectic-kleinod.de

    Reply
  94. C's Confetti says:
    July 22, 2015 at 11:06 pm

    This is such a great post. Thanks for sharing the story. This recipe sounds amazing, too.

    http://csconfetti.blogspot.com

    Reply
  95. Pingback: Local Milk | earl grey waffles & whipped honey cream + 3 yrs of local milk | saltandfiction
  96. Pingback: earl grey waffles & whipped honey cream + 3 yrs of local milk | My Berry Cake
  97. marcella says:
    August 14, 2015 at 4:31 pm

    ah! you seriously have the most amazing & inspirational style + photography. so happy to have come across what is probably now my all-time favourite blog. your kitchen looks stunning.

    Reply
  98. Pingback: Como equilibrar vida real y virtual | My wholistic life
  99. Pingback: welcome home
  100. Pingback: Top 5 des blogs à suivre in the world
  101. Laura Vieira says:
    February 9, 2016 at 1:21 pm

    Hi Elizabeth,

    I see that you have been to Portugal a couple of times, how do you like it? My family is from there and I visit frequently. Hope you loved it!

    Thank you,

    Laura Vieira

    Reply
  102. Roger @Madeleine Effect says:
    March 12, 2016 at 4:37 pm

    Wow!
    Well, I tried to expand on the ‘WOW’ for the recipe, the photography, and the writing, but I never managed any better.

    I guess I’ll stick with WOW and thanks for sharing. I know what Sunday breakfast is this week.

    Reply
  103. Brooke Courter says:
    March 19, 2016 at 12:02 pm

    What a pleasant surprise! I thought I was opening a link to read a waffle recipe, but I found a love story instead. Thank you for sharing your heart.

    Reply
  104. Pingback: Mes coups de cœur de la semaine #121 - SPECIAL MODESPECIAL MODE
  105. Shannon says:
    June 8, 2016 at 3:51 am

    The lighting in your pictures always puts me in the mood to get cozy and read poems by the fire.

    Reply
  106. Brit says:
    January 22, 2017 at 7:41 pm

    Looks great! Unfortunately breakfast doesn’t come until tomorrow.
    Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  107. Pingback: Earl Grey Waffles and Whipped Honey Cream – A Drop of Home
  108. C L Couch says:
    August 15, 2018 at 6:00 pm

    the coffee, waffles, and philosophy look grand

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Popular Posts

travel with baby
35 Baby Travel Tips | Infant to 1-Year-Old + Minimalist Baby Packing List
Chocolate-Dipped Pistachio Shortbread + A Giveaway by Beth Kirby
Chocolate-Dipped Pistachio Shortbread + A Giveaway
The Ultimate Paris, France Travel Guide: All the Must See Instagram, Travel Photography, Food, Cafes, Things to do, and Shopping Spot plus Travel Tips for the First Time Visitor! #travel #paris #france
Wander Guide | The Essential Paris Travel Guide & Map
Gathering from Scratch | A Workshop Retreat in the Shenandoah Valley Part 2
  • follow local milk on instagram
  • follow local milk on pinterest
  • follow local milk on facebook
  • follow local milk on instagram
  • follow local milk on twitter
contact

© 2021 Local Milk. All Rights Reserved.

Privacy Policy | Copyright Notice
  • Site Design: the Denizen CO.
  • Devlopment: Alchemy + Aim
JOIN THE
COMMUNITY!
Get my exclusive monthly letter on all things slow living + creative business as well as recipes, free guides, and more!
LIVE MORE MAGIC, EAT MORE MAGIC
Enter your email for inspired tips for elevating the everyday, recipes, travel guides, our new + exclusive 'The Art of Slow Living' monthly newsletter, and more right in your inbox!
THE COMPLETE
SELF-PUBLISHING STARTER KIT
MEET MY NEWEST RESOURCE
COOKBOOK EDITION
Get my gorgeous 25-recipe template and easy-to-follow video tutorials for how to create a custom cookbook with your own recipes, colors, photos, and more!
START PUBLISHING!
THE COMPLETE
SELF-PUBLISHING
STARTER KIT
MEET MY NEWEST RESOURCE
COOKBOOK EDITION
Get my gorgeous 25-recipe template and easy-to-follow video tutorials for how to create a custom cookbook with your own recipes, colors, photos, and more!
START PUBLISHING!