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"Unleashing Creativity: Heft Leather, Little Blue Coop Soaps, and 2025 Holiday Festivals in CT"

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"Unleashing Creativity: Heft Leather, Little Blue Coop Soaps, and 2025 Holiday Festivals in CT"

"Unleashing Creativity: Heft Leather, Little Blue Coop Soaps, and 2025 Holiday Festivals in CT"
This weekend Drive takes us East of the River

Mayra Dube

Dec 4, 2025

 

✨Get ready to be mesmerized by the Magic of Lights, a spectacular drive-through holiday lights experience like no other! This dazzling event showcases beloved holiday scenes and characters through the magic of cutting-edge LED technology and stunning digital animations. 🎨✨

πŸš—Drive-through the enchanting pathway of East Hartford’s new holiday tradition from the comfort and safety of your own vehicle. It's a one-of-a-kind opportunity to enjoy the twinkling lights and joyous ambiance with your loved ones. β€οΈπŸŽ„

One carload, one priceβ€”it's a delightful and affordable outing for the entire family! Don't miss out on this magical experience; it's the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. πŸŒŸπŸš™

 

 

✨ Custom Embroidery: Your Personal Touch!

Have you ever wanted to add a unique flair to your clothing or give someone an unforgettable personalized gift? Look no further! Our custom embroidery service is exactly what you need. 😊

 

Get started today and make your mark with custom embroidery. βœ‚οΈπŸ‘—

 

πŸ” Did you know? Noah Webster, known as the "Father of American Scholarship and Education," was a visionary from West Hartford who forever changed how Americans communicate. His pioneering effort led to the first publication of an American English dictionary in 1783. πŸ“š

By standardizing American English, Webster's dictionary did more than compile wordsβ€”it laid the foundation for national unity and identity. His work wasn't just about compiling definitions but also about in influencing American culture and education. πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

So, the next time you flip through a dictionary, take a moment to appreciate this monumental achievement of linguistic history. Who knew a West Hartford native's passion would impact future generations and become a cornerstone of American lexicon? 🌟

You can visit his home right in West Hartford. Click here for more info.

 

 

Fork+Band Slingshot is revolutionizing all-ages recreation with a truly novel and super-fun Slingshot Shooting Gallery! 🎯 Perfect for families, friends, dates, birthday parties, and work group activities, F+B offers a unique recreational experience that stands in a class of its own. Appealing to all age groups, from kids to adults, it's an unforgettable destination for everyone! 🌟

Whether you're experiencing a slingshot for the first time, relishing childhood memories, or challenging yourself in precision slingshot sports, F+B guarantees a fun, safe, and responsible environment. 🏹 What's even better? F+B is conveniently located near the hustle and bustle of Hartford and Waterbury, just 5 miles off I-84, making it an ideal day trip from Boston, northern New Jersey, the Hudson Valley, or even New York City! πŸš—πŸ’¨

Visit the world's only indoor slingshot shooting gallery and retail store, where the slingshot experience transcends into "It's a Whole New Game!" 🎈 So, gather your family or friends and embark on an exhilarating F+B adventure! πŸŽ‰

 

This trip we are headed East. I84 East into East Hartford. Take the Connecticut Blvd exit, we are headed to Main St in East Hartford. Heading north on Main st you can stop at Triple A Diner and grab a quick meal. Once your done there head back up Main St. You are looking for the break off at the fork in the road and stay on Main St. I really like going this way. The houses are so far apart and there are some really old homes on this street. Up the road you will come to the Wood Memorial Library. They have great exhibits and make sure you make time to explore the Noashe Village. It is a sight to see how the indigenous people lived. Wear some food walking shoes for that part. After that keep heading up north and what we are going to do is stop at one of the oldest post offices in Connecticut. There is a sign out from describing its history. It is still in use today. We are going to turn right and head down Route 194 the a quick left onto Rye St. heading North. Rye St is just a leisurely ride up into Broad Brook cute little town. Make a stop at the  Broad Brook Opera house and see if there are any shows you might enjoy to attend. Pull off the left and take a look at the little waterfall just over the little bridge and If your hungry maybe make a stop at At the Dam Restaurant. Then get back over to Depot St and head East. it will change its name to Broadbrook Rd. At the end of that it will meet Route 140 take a right and head South. Following Route 140 into Ellington get some Ice Cream at  The Scoop Ice Cream Cafe. Up the road make sure to stop at Thistle Glass and Crafts. Very unique bead store. Continuing up Route 140 we are going to take a right onto Route 83 South. Keep an eye out for LuAnn's Bakery Cafe. Pick up some seets for later. After that you can continue down Route 83. There is alot to see on this route. My favorite is Lee's RV. I wish I could get me a huge Class RV so I can really travel! Heading down Route 83 you gotta make a stop at the Hidden Still. Connecticut's own Moonshine Bare! OH MY. Please do not drink and drive. I cannot say enough of the Cheesebuger egg rolls. So yummy!  If that is not your thing keep following Route 83 South. There is so much to see and eat. Before you decide to head home you might want to stop and have some fun at the bowling alley Spare Time Bowling. Why not? You have bowling, arcade games plus you can get some snacks there too. Try a game. After that keep heading south on Route 83 that meets Route I84 and head home OR keep going! Remember Keep Exploring! 

 

πŸ“š ✈️ Are you planning your next adventure across the United States? Make sure to bring along our unique Travel Word Search Book. As you flip through its pages, you'll embark on a journey through the USA like never before! With each turn, you'll discover interactive crosswords and engaging coloring pages that will guide you to iconic destinations and provide endless fun along the way!

Highlights:

  • 🧩 Word Search & Coloring Book: Experience the best of both worlds as this book combines these two beloved activities in one!
  • Travel Word Search: Solve engaging puzzles themed around famous US landmarks.
  • Travel Coloring Book: Color stunning illustrations of America's most renowned sites.
  • USA Travel Book: Your ultimate companion to unlock travel ideas and keep you entertained wherever you roam!

πŸ—ΊοΈ Whether you're taking a road trip or flying coast to coast, let this book be your guide to the wonders of the USA. Every page is a new adventure, waiting for you to explore! 🌟

                                         Makes a great gift!

 

Have your Holiday list ready but no idea what to get? Check out this section every week for our latest Connecticut Crafters!

Are you a Crafter that lives in Connecticut? Click this Link to send us your information so we can include you in our next issue. 

Heft Leather and Saddlery

A Passion for Crafting with Leather

We're thrilled to introduce you to Noah Heft, a truly passionate leather artisan and horseman. Noah's journey into the world of leather began in 2021, leading to the creation of Heft Leather and Saddlery in 2023. His work is a seamless blend of his love for both fantasy and the Western spirit, breathing life into each crafted piece. πŸ‡βœ¨

As a CHA Certified Riding Instructor, Noah rides both English and Western styles, bringing a unique perspective to his leather creations. πŸ“œπŸ’Ό His admiration for The Lord of the Rings and a broader love of medieval fantasy acts as a continual source of creativity and inspiration. 🏰

Each piece made by Noah carries whispers of the American West, the strong spirit of the horse, and a touch of fantasy. He invites you to explore this enchanting blend through his craft, sharing a piece of the Western lifestyle in every item he creates. πŸ€ πŸŒ„

Prepare to be captivated by Noah's artistry and allow yourself to be transported into a world where fantasy meets the rugged spirit of the American West. Welcome to Heft Leather and Saddlery! 🌟

 

πŸ’¬I told my husband of 30 years one day that I wanted to start my own soap business. I needed a business that allows me to be creative and help with my anxiety.

πŸ“œ The name of our business came naturally inspired by our little blue chicken coop and our seven chickens: Harry the rooster, Sarah, Ester, Whoopie, Nutmeg, Butter Cup, Madeline. πŸ“πŸ₯

🏑 As Empty Nesters with our two children out of the house, soap has become our new passion! We are excited to share this journey with you and bring a bit of handcrafted joy 🧼✨ into your homes.

🌱We are proud to say that our products are vegan, cruelty-free, and phthalate and paraben free! πŸ‡πŸŒΏ Your skin deserves nothing but the best, and we are committed to offering products that are both ethical and indulgent.

πŸ’– **_We would appreciate it if you enjoy our soap_**, please leave feedback in our Etsy store. Your support and comments help us to continue doing what we love, and to serve you better!

12/4 Holidays on Main  5-8:30pm Main St Wethersfield

12/5  Lamplight Stroll Broad st Milford 5-9pm

12/5 Bright Lights Christmas Festival Southington Town Green 5:30 - 8pm

12/5 & 12/6 Collinsville Holiday Craft Fair Town Hall 4 Market St. Fri 5-8:30 and Sat 10-4pm

12/6 St Holiday Fair Raphaels Parish 501 Naugatuck Ave Milford 

12/6 Scandinavian Club Christmas Market 1351 South Pine Creek Rd Fairfield 10-2pm

12/6 Durham Holiday Tree Lgihting Durham 

12/6 Kriz Farm Holiday Market 13 Bear Hill Rd Bethany 10/3

12/6 Durham Winter Market 10-1 Durham Community Center Picket Lane

12/7 Craft Fair - Berlin VFW 10:30 - 2:30pm

12/13 Pictures with Santa Yankee Harley Davidson Farmington Ave Bristol

12/7 Newtown Youth and Family Services Holiday Market Main st Newtown 11-4pm

12/7 Friends of Easton Library Annual Holiday Market 691 Morehouse Rd Easton 5-9pm

12/14 Christmas In the Village Plantsville 4:30 - 7:30

12/13 Holiday Vendor Fair 10 - 2 Charter Oak 425 Oakwood Ave West Hartford

12/13 Hayden Station Fire Co Annual Holiday Craft Fair 54 Basswood Rd Windsor

12/20  Durham Winter Market 10-1 Durham Community Center Picket Lane

 

 

Have an Event coming up?  Click this link and send us the info ASAP. Our issues come out on Thursdays just in time for weekend planning!

The article provides a list of holiday festivals and events happening in Connecticut in 2025.

Some of the events include tree lightings, Christmas markets, holiday parades, and winter festivals.

The list offers various activities for families and individuals to enjoy during the holiday season throughout the state.

Read More...

🌟 Get ready for an exciting week influenced by Mars stationing retrograde in Leo on December 6th and a potent Sun-Chiron trine on December 10th! These cosmic movements might bring opportunities for introspection and healing, so let's see what's in store for each zodiac sign:

  • Aries (March 21 - April 19): 🌟 Focus on your creative identity and passions! This week marks the beginning of a reassessment period regarding self-expression. Explore your inner self and avoid pushing your limits. In January, your attention will shift to home and domestic matters.
  • Taurus (April 20 - May 20): 🏑 Dive into contemplation around home, emotional security, and foundational issues. It's a time for introspection about family and childhood dynamics. Unresolved issues may surface for healing, offering a chance to reconnect with your past.
  • Gemini (May 21 - June 20): πŸ’¬ Communication could be a bit tricky with Mercury's post-retrograde shadow lingering. Be mindful in interactions to avoid misunderstandings. Patience is keyβ€”think before speaking, and avoid judgment for a calm week.
  • Cancer (June 21 - July 22): πŸ’° Time to reassess your financial landscape! Balance your income and expenses, and make changes for long-term security. Seek assistance if needed and resist impulsive decisions regarding your desires.
  • Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22): 🦁 Mars in retrograde within your sign highlights self-identity. This is a great time for an inward journey, questioning your relation to others. Establish a consistent exercise routine and be more introspective about your health.
  • Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22): 🌌 Embrace integrating your "shadow self" with more compassion. While challenges may arise, focus on the present moment. The elephant god Ganesh can remove obstacles if you offer prayers.
  • Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22): 🌎 New social dynamics await! Whether traveling or exploring different groups, openness is key. Be it searching for new qualities or recognizing the ones you already possess, let goodwill guide you.
  • Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21): 🌱 Changes loom ahead. Focus on learning about gardening or health to safeguard through culminations and endings. Ensure your professional aspirations align with your personal desires.
  • Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21): πŸš€ Expand your horizons with new thought processes and people. This philosophical adventure will uncover new realities, yet relationship wounds may persist. Warm intentions for forgiveness can aid healing.
  • Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19): πŸ’Ό Put values first, creating empowerment. Expect shifts over the coming months; handle money and resources with respect. Guard against impatience in spending.
  • Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18): 🏑 Connect deeper with loved ones. Foster a nurturing home environment and communicate from the heart about goals and dreams, welcoming unexpected events with openness.
  • Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20): πŸ’ͺ Consistency in health, diet, and exercise is crucial. Despite the chaos, craft a daily rhythm. Work or your view of it may shift as spiritual courage grows.

 

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