Winter in Connecticut

Introducing our new section. The Book Nook. Here we feature small Connecticut book stores. I love a good book. One of my favorite things to do is pull up a chair to my front sun facing window and take some time to read. Here in this section will be your book tour of  Connecticut!

Bank Square Books

🎨 Got an image in mind? Let us transform it into a stunning company logo or a unique gift for someone special. Perfect for showing your appreciation in the most personal way. ❤️

🧥👕 Wondering what to do with those overgrown t-shirts or sweatshirts? Let's give them a new lease of life! How about a personalized pillow, quilt, or tote bag? 🧵🎁

💖 Make a Memory from a cherished sweatshirt.

Our Products Include:

• 🧸 Memory items
• Treasured memory bears 🐻 or other stuffed animals
• Heartfelt memory pillows or quilts
• 👶 Adorable baby items, like onesies, loveys, and blankets
• 🚿 Cozy hooded towels
• Handy tote bags
• 🎀 Elegant table runners

Don't forget, we also offer sewing lessons upon request for those eager to learn and explore! 🧵✂️

No order is too big or too small, and we aim to provide a fast turnaround whenever possible.

🎄🌟 Think of us for your holiday needs and bring some personalized warmth to your celebrations this year! 🎁✨

Backyard Adventure Tours

🎉 **Looking for an outdoorsy adventure?** Look no further! If you're near Canton, CT, and craving some excitement 🚜, you're in for a treat. Your best option is Backyard Adventure UTV Tours located in the picturesque East Canaan, CT. Here's why you should consider them for your next escapade:

• Self-Drive Adventures: Take the wheel on these adrenaline-pumping self-drive experiences across private trails.
• Guided Exploration: You'll have a knowledgeable guide leading the way, making it both safe and educational.
• Year-Round Fun: Whether it's spring blooms or winter wonderlands, these tours are available all year.
• Ideal for Families & Groups: Perfect for bonding and making memories with your loved ones.
• Adventure Duration: Choose from 1 to 2-hour tours tailored to fit your schedule.
• Book in Advance: These popular tours require booking ahead of time to secure your spot!

For an exhilarating day out in the scenic Northwest Hills 🌄, make sure to plan your trip with Backyard Adventure UTV Tours. It's time to rev up the excitement and explore nature like never before!

This trip is going to take us down Route 5 and along the CT river. This time of year the trees are clear and you will be able to see the river. So lets go. Starting up Route 91 north at North Thompson, we are getting on Route 5 South just before the Mass Border. On the right you will see the Cruise America RV rental. Why not stop and take a look at an RV for the summer? It is a great way for families to spend time together. Driving down the street you will see Baco's Pizza with a 4.4 start rating. Continuing down Route 5 you will see on the left theres Most Excellent Comic Book Gaming and on the right a cute little boutique called Laura Unit Boutique. In there you will find sme really unique finds in Women's clothing. Continuing on if you did not eat at Bacos then make a stop at Jimmys Pub. Get some beer and burgers! Please don't drink and drive. Moving on down there is Russos Pastry Shop. It's on the corner of Belmont Ave. Cookies, cakes and pastries. Plus Pizza OH MY! Continuing down Route 5 south keep on the look out for Route 510 (Depot Hill Rd) then take another right onto Old Depot Hill Rd this will follow the Connecticut River on your right, This time of year you will be able to see the river clearly because the leaves are down. Stay on Old River Rd then another right onto River Rd still following the river. Then it changes to S Water St. It meets back to Route 5 heading back North going up all the way to Route 140 (n Rd) take a right and make a stop at the Connecticut Trolley Museum. Not sure if they are open this time of year. If they are its worth a stop. If not - get back on Route 140 east and then at the fork stay left onto Melrose Rd then Right onto Simon Rd then striaght onto Raffia Rd that will take you to Enfield Twin Rinks. Make a stop and see if they have open skating. I never did any ice skating but I did do Roller skating. Maybe in my next trip I'll find a rink somewhere. Continuing up the road North you will come to a triangle and your going to go straight through to Beech Rd. Follow that to Middle Rd then onto Route 190 take a left and that will meet Route 91 to get back home. Before you get back on Route 190 you will see the old Enfield Mall and lots of shopping and places to eat. Keep Exploring!

📚 ✈️ 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!

🗺️ 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!

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. 

Turn A Book Art

📚 **Our Creative Journey with Rescued Books** 📚

It all began with a simple idea - re-purposing discarded books from our library instead of letting them gather dust or end up in a landfill. Little did we know, this would unfold into a wonderful adventure of creativity and innovation! ✨

Our **first creations** were amazing mobiles, crafted by intricately folding the pages of books. Witnessing the transformation was nothing short of magical, and it sparked a greater passion for book folding. 🌟

With our imaginations brimming, we began crafting a diverse array of masterpieces: from delicate **flowers** and chic pocketbooks to stylish **vases** and whimsical cats. Each piece echoed our personalities and personal touches, exemplifying that the **possibilities truly were endless**. 🌸👜😺

As our collection grew, so did the idea to share these beautiful creations with the world. We took a leap of faith and set up booths at local craft fairs, where the response was nothing less than astounding! People were marveled at the concept of turning ordinary books into extraordinary artworks. They loved the idea of **re-purposing and rescuing books**, and their enthusiastic encouragement motivated us to take the next step. 🌈

Pursuing this newfound passion, we started showcasing at larger artisanal fairs across Connecticut by 2018. These events not only broadened our customer base but also taught us essential lessons within the artisan community. With valuable feedback, we continued to hone our craft, delighting our faithful followers who eagerly anticipate each new creation. 👥💬

This journey of rescuing books and transforming them into art has just begun for us. We can't wait for what lies ahead – for more years of creativity and, most importantly, the joy of rescuing books! 📖❤️

Someday Seaglass

Discover the magic of the sea with our one-of-a-kind whimsical ornaments and treasures! 🌊✨ Handcrafted with love, each item is uniquely made from seaglass, stones, and shells that we sustainably collect from the beach. 🌿⚓️

Whether you're hunting for a charming piece to complete your collection or seeking the perfect gift for that special someone, our shop offers something truly special. 🎁

With prices ranging from $5 to $20, you can bring the coastal magic into your home or give the gift of the ocean's beauty without breaking the bank. 🌟

Let us help you make your loved ones feel cherished with a touch of beachy charm. Dive into our collection now! 🌊💙

Jan 3  Winter Wonderland - Stanley Golf Course Driving Range Event

Jan 14 Witch Doctor Brew 6-8pm  Southington Hops & Hats Event

Jan 17  Boozy Book Fair Dayville

Jan 24  Pet Adoption Event Southington

March 13, 14 15 90's Con Hartford

March 21 - 22.  Dragons Realm ComicCon Danbury

Popular Sledding Parks in CT

Sledding Locations in Stamford:  Enjoy the snowy fun at popular spots like Dorothy Heroy Park, Fort Stamford, Scalzi Park, and Fish Church, all offering a variety of hills perfect for sledding enthusiasts. 🛷

• Sledding in Greenwich: Experience the thrill at Julian Curtiss School with its wide hill, Western Greenwich Civic Center Park, and Bruce Park. ❄️
• Eastern Connecticut Adventures: Head to Ledyard Middle School, Horsebarn Hill at UConn, or the Roseland Park's Golf Course for diverse sledding experiences. ⛄
• Fairfield County Fun: Discover local schools or parks for hills or consider a visit to Mohawk Mountain for exhilarating tubing. 🌨️

Paid Snow Tubing Parks: Special Amenities!

• Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort in Middlefield offers not only dedicated tubing runs but also sessions filled with music and food, making it a fantastic choice for families. 🎶🍔
• Mohawk Mountain in Cornwall provides another great tubing option. Remember to check their website for availability and opening hours before you go.

💡 Tips for Sledding in Connecticut:

• Snow Depth: Ensure there's enough snow to cover obstacles like rocks and roots for a smooth sledding experience.
• Safety First: Helmets are recommended for younger children, and always have adult supervision. 🪖
• Check Conditions: Call ahead or check online to confirm operating hours and snow conditions, especially for tubing parks. 📞
• Variety of Spots: Some locations, such as
• Scalzi Park, are perfect for younger children, while others like 
• Innis Arden Golf Club offer more daring adventures for the brave-hearted. 🤸‍♂️
• Nelsons Field - Bristol Corner of 69 and Maple Ave
• Walnut Hill Park - New Britain

Astrological Insights for January 1–8, 2026 🌌

Welcome to the first week of January 2026, where the exuberant energy of "wildchild" Sagittarius transitions into the structured and pragmatic vibe of Capricorn season. This period promises profound insights and opportunities for personal growth. Let's dive into the cosmic happenings! ✨

Major Astrological Events:

• January 1: Mercury moves into Capricorn, honing our focus on long-term goals and fostering direct, strategic conversations. 🗣️
• January 3: A Full Moon in Cancer—also a Supermoon—peaks on this day, emphasizing family dynamics, private life, and the need for emotional release. 🌕 This is a time for healing and "reset".
• January 3–4: The Quadrantid meteor shower showcases a spectacular "fireball" display, adding cosmic magic despite the bright moonlight. 🌠
• January 4: A powerful Capricorn stellium activates the houses of luck and destiny, especially for Earth signs like Taurus and Capricorn. 🍀

Horoscopes by Sign:

• Aries: It's time to fuel your ambition in your career. The January 3 Full Moon is a perfect opportunity to set home boundaries, enabling professional focus. 🎯
• Taurus: January 4 could be your lucky day! Embrace change and explore new horizons, particularly in education or travel. 🧳
• Gemini: As Mercury enters Capricorn on January 1, get ready to focus on your finances and embark on personal transformations. 💰
• Cancer: With the Full Moon in Cancer on January 3, expect an emotional reset. Prioritize personal needs and healing. 🧘‍♀️
• Leo: This week might bring the completion of past lessons. Look out for closure on significant projects or life chapters. 📚
• Virgo: Building practical skills is key. Enhancing adaptability to career changes could nurture patience and grounding. 🛠️
• Libra: Despite early-week challenges, Jupiter's influence may bring positive vibes. Reflecting on last year's milestones might offer valuable insights. 🌟
• Scorpio: Communication could be a strong point. Use January 1 for important conversations or contracts. 💬
• Sagittarius: Take financial matters seriously. Consider reworking your budget or asking for a raise as Mercury moves into the money sector. 📈
• Capricorn: This week could be perfect for setting intentions and taking the reins, although minor office politics may arise. 🏆
• Aquarius: The beginning of the year is excellent for achieving internal clarity and emotional integration. 🤔
• Pisces: Trusting your intuition is essential; strive to avoid forcing immediate clarity. 🌊

Embrace the celestial energies and let them guide your journey this week. 🌌

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