Connecticut Gazette
Archives
Good Reads, Good Food and Better Trips!
Good Reads, Good Food and Better Trips!
Snow is here lets do some sledding!
Mayra Dube
Jan 8, 2026
Winter Fun 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! |
 |
📚 A heartwarming tale of passion and perseverance, Books on the Common was born in 1984, a dream realized by Bob and Sally Silbernagel. From its humble beginnings in a cozy 450 sq. ft. space on Danbury Road, the Silbernagels transformed their vision into a cherished community hub. Within a year, their ambition saw them flourish as one of the first tenants in the new Copps Hill Common, where they expanded into a 1,000 square feet space. 🌟 Tragically, on May 16, 1991, Bob Silbernagel's journey came to an end after a long battle with cancer. He passed away at the age of 49, leaving behind an enduring legacy. Sally, with remarkable resilience and a supportive new team, continued to nurture their joint venture amid the rise of competitive chain stores. 💪 Surviving in the ever-changing landscape of bookselling, Sally faced the mounting challenges posed by online shopping and the boom of e-books. Despite these obstacles, her determination to keep Bob's dream alive shines as a beacon of hope and inspiration for independent bookstores everywhere. In a world where digital convenience often overshadows the joy of flipping through pages in a bookstore, Books on the Common stands as a testament to the enduring love for printed books and the community spirit they foster. 📖❤️
|
 |
✨ 🌟 Custom Embroidery: unleash your creativity with personalized items! 🌟✨ Whether you're looking to customize your own apparel or select from our collection, we've got you covered!
🎨 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:
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! 🎁✨
|
 |
 |
🎨✨ Are you fascinated by the beauty of stained glass? Our shop is your go-to destination for exquisite stained glass items and expert repair services. Whether you're looking to restore the charm of your home’s window panes, repair delicate lamps, or breathe new life into antique pieces, we’re here to help! 👷♂️🔧 We invite you to bring in your treasured items for a personalized, custom quote and discover how we can rejuvenate them. 💼💎 Visit us at 1241 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike in Southington to experience the artistry and craftsmanship of our offerings firsthand. 🎄✨ Looking to add a touch of glass elegance to your holidays? Don’t miss out on our exciting sale on holiday glass items and custom glass jewelry! 🎁💍 Explore our collection to find that perfect piece that will sparkle and charm during this festive season. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the timeless beauty of stained glass with you! 🌟🏠 |
 |
This trip will start off Route 15 heading south to Fairfield area. Getting out at Exit 44 - which will have you jump on Route 58 North. Unless they changed the exit numbers. Just make sure its Route 58 North. Which is Black Rock Turnpike. So once on there you will see the HIHO Hotel with the Barcelona Wine Bar. Depending what time of day they are open you might want to take a quick meal. If not further up the road there is a breakfast location. Until you get there your driving north and you will see the Hemlock Reservoir which is nice to see since there are no leaves on the trees. Continuing heading north you will find the Olde Blue Bird Restaurant. here you can get breakfast. I believe they close at 2 so make sure you check their schedule. I gotta say Route 58 is just scenic, easy ride. Still heading north on 58 your looking for the intersection of Route 302 your going to take a right onto Route 302 east. If you haven't yet stopped to eat then you might consider one of these next 2 stops. Dodgingtown Market & Deli or maybe some Italian at Tambascios Italian Grill. Both really good stops. Watch out for the sharp left turn of 302! Still continuing on 302 you will see Ferris Acres Creamery, but this time of year its closed. Perhaps refer back to this issue for a summer drive through here as well. Make a stop there for sure! Route 302 will meet Route 25 take a left you will be in Newtown and its famous HUGE Newtown Flag Pole, maybe stretch your legs around here and get some photos. Stop by the historical society building. After, your going to jump onto Route 6 East there at the pole follow that over to I84 to get back home. But I gotta say before you jump on the highway you have to make a stop at the Blue Colony Diner. If you still haven't eaten make a stop its worth it. If you did eat still stop and get some deserts their cakes and cookies are off the charts! Keep Exploring! |
 |
Joke Of The Day |
Why did the scarecrow win an award in Connecticut? Because he was outstanding in his field! |
📚 ✈️ 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:
🗺️ 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. |
 |
✨ Beauty and self-care should really be one and the same. At Sweet Alder, we believe that the products you use every day should not only enhance your beauty but also take care of your skin and hair. Our carefully curated formulations are crafted from simple and natural ingredients to help you achieve your self-care goals effortlessly. 🌿 With Sweet Alder as your companion, we're here to make your life a little bit easier while ensuring you look and feel your best. 💫 Choose products that honor your natural beauty and nurture your essential being. After all, self-care is an investment in your brightest future! 🌟
|
 |
🌟 Hello and welcome to Creative Elegance by Ann Marie LLC! 🌟 For as long as I can remember, being creative while bringing joy to others has been my passion, whether it's in my classroom, school, home, or gardens. In 2022, my journey took an unexpected turn. While continuing to teach full-time, I also embraced the role of my husband's caregiver due to a medical condition. As the holidays were approaching and my presence was needed at home, I decided to channel my creativity into making lighted tulle trees as festive Christmas presents. 🎄 The delightful surprise was how well these trees turned out, prompting me to share them with friends and family. The response was overwhelmingly positive! 💖 Inspired by their enthusiasm, I began collaborating with customers to craft custom holiday and special occasion trees and centerpieces, all embellished with whimsical toppers, ribbons, and ornaments. 🎀✨ I am absolutely thrilled about the journey my trees are leading me on. Whether it’s about meeting new people, creating one-of-a-kind designs, or receiving photos depicting smiling faces and the placement of our cherished trees shared by satisfied customers, it all brings immense joy. 😊 Thank you for being a part of this artistic adventure, and I look forward to creating more magical memories with each of you! 🌈
|
 |
Jan 14 Witch Doctor Brew 6-8pm Southington Hops & Hats Event jan 15-18 Disney On Ice presents Frozen & Encanto 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. 🛷
Paid Snow Tubing Parks: Special Amenities!
💡 Tips for Sledding in Connecticut:
|
 |
🔮 **Weekly Horoscope (Jan 9 – Jan 15, 2026)** 🔮 This week, the celestial energy is heavily focused on Capricorn, driving a collective urge for structure, discipline, and long-term planning. 🌟 A powerful Mars cazimi (Mars conjunct the Sun) on January 9th provides a massive surge of drive and ambition to tackle even the most difficult tasks. 💪
|
 |
Looking to Make A Change for the New Year? |
Affordable online certificate courses offered part-time on your schedule. Certificate Courses Include some like:
and More Click the link below to see what training you could take to improve your work life. Or just get some education on your chosen career. Or look for a new one! Join thousands of graduates today! Check out the many courses here. |
Interested in advertising to our incredible readers? Send us. your contact info to get started. Contact Us |