Audrey's Childhood Tales
Stories that grew from the laughter and love of a big family and intergenerational values
"Discovering the joy of learning from one another."
In Grandma Gracie’s Barnyard Lesson, young Audrey is eager to outwit her twin sister in a game of hide-and-seek on their family farm. But when she accidentally causes a commotion in the barn by ignoring a warning sign she can’t read, Audrey is left embarrassed and overwhelmed. Through gentle guidance and heartfelt encouragement from Grandma Gracie, Audrey begins learning to read using flashcards—and soon realizes the power of literacy in keeping herself and others safe. With newfound confidence, she discovers that reading opens the door to endless learning and meaningful contributions around the farm. This touching, intergenerational tale reminds readers that everyone blooms in their own time, and with support, any challenge can become a stepping stone.
Grandma Gracie's Apple Dumplings
On her family’s farm in Idaho, young Audrey looks forward to apple harvest season—the time of year when the orchard comes alive with laughter, work, and the delicious smell of fresh apple dumplings. Under the gentle guidance of Grandma Gracie and Grandpa Dean, Audrey and her siblings learn not just how to make the perfect dumpling, but how every part of the process—gathering, peeling, slicing, folding—comes together with love.
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But when Audrey finds out the dumplings are being shared with neighbors instead of kept for the family, she doesn’t understand why. As she walks beside Grandma Gracie to deliver a basket of dumplings to the Potts family, Audrey discovers the joy that comes from giving, and how sharing something made with care and love can make it even more special.
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This heartwarming story honors family traditions, intergenerational wisdom, and the power of giving from the heart.
"Sometimes the sweetest joy is in the sharing."
The Books
Grandma Gracie's Barnyard Lesson
"Discovering the joy of learning from one another."
When Grandma Gracie and Grandpa Dean return from their travels through Africa and Mexico, Audrey can hardly wait to see the slides of the places they visited and hear stories about the people they met. Inspired by her grandparents’ adventures, she begins to imagine a world filled with friends who may look or live differently, but share the same love of family and laughter.
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Grandma Gracie’s World of Friends is a heartwarming story about curiosity, cultural connection, and celebrating the beauty of our diverse world—reminding readers that friendship knows no borders.
Grandma Gracie's World of Friends
Meet my family
Before they became characters in my books, they were the people I laughed, played, and grew up with. Inspired by my big, loving family, each character has a little spark of someone I know—a silly uncle, a curious cousin, a wise grandma. These stories are my way of sharing the joy, chaos, and heart of growing up surrounded by love. Come say hello to the characters who feel just like home!
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Story of Grace Valley
Grace Valley was born from a vision: to create a vibrant, intergenerational community where elders are liberated to live with purpose, wellness, and joy, surrounded by nature and the laughter of children. Rooted in the Japanese concept of ikigai-a reason for being-our story is about transforming the narrative of aging from decline to one of respect, vitality, and connection. Here, elders are honored as teachers and guides, sharing their wisdom and passions in a setting that blends organic living, spiritual growth, and meaningful relationships. By weaving together the principles of the world’s healthiest “Blue Zones” with a spirit-based approach, Grace Valley nurtures mind, body, and soul, fostering a sense of belonging and fulfillment for all generations. Our community thrives on empathy, creativity, and the belief that every person-regardless of age-has unique gifts to offer. Together, we are building a place where each day is infused with purpose, love, and the joy of shared experience.
Grace Valley
Mission
Creating mindful living options for elders through an intergenerational wellness community based on nature, spiritual growth, wisdom and service.
Vision
A community in nature where elders find love, purpose, and joy in their everyday lives.
A Multigenerational Community for Wellness, Nature & Purpose