Written by Elisa Sargent | Illustrated by Daniel Crosier | Colored by Kevin Waltz The Earl of Elm and the Countess of Conifer went into town to visit the barber. They knew by the crisp change in the air that it was time for the Earl to trim back his hair. It was that time of year when his leaves began to thin, and he was preparing to fall asleep again. But before he could rest, he put on his best and the Countess slipped on her evergreen dress. They gathered their pets, Button, Porta and Truffles, and into the town the fancy couple shuffled. The townspeople cheered and greeted their friends as they walked down the street to the shop at the end. Passing the windows with the baubles and jewels, the countess decided she would like something new. Because Christmas was coming and the forest would be festive, with the celebration of Yule in the deep wooden thickets. They popped into a shop and met with the clerks, who immediately began their decorative work. They happily covered her branches with silver and gold, and in exchange for their gifts she gave mistletoe. For the ribbons they wrapped and the sparkling bows, she gladly exchanged her most beautiful pinecone. With the Countess draped in her new shining beauty, the Earl entered the barber shop for his annual pruning. As he began his work, the barber was surprised to find an angry little squirrel was hidden deep inside. The barber kept a bowl of acorns for such an occasion, and the squirrel quickly forgave the startling invasion. Now that the trip into town was a wild success, the couple headed home for the Earl’s seasonal rest. The days became shorter and the nights began to chill, those who chose to hibernate had eaten their fill. As the Earl became sleepy for his long winter night, the Countess and her court began to strike the Yule lights. As Button, Porta and Truffles snuggled into the branches, the forest creatures began their festive Yule dances. The snow fell lightly as the Conifer court began to sing, Merry Christmas to all, and many joys may the new year bring. THE EARL OF ELM AND THE COUNTESS OF CONIFER FULL CHILDREN'S BOOK IS AVAILABLE ON FEBRUARY 14, 2025 SNAG A COPY AT WHENBAKEDTHINGSATTACK.COM & ON AMAZON.
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