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!

Harbor Books - Old Saybrook

🎨 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! 🎁✨

Goodspeed's Station Country Store

Discover Goodspeed’s Station: Your Premier Destination for Unique Gifts! 🎁

Nestled along the serene Connecticut River in the charming town of Haddam, Connecticut, Goodspeed’s Station is more than just a store; it's an experience! Whether you're a local resident or a traveler exploring the area, a visit to Goodspeed’s Station promises to delight and inspire.

Explore our Collection:

• ✨ Handcrafted Jewelry: One-of-a-kind pieces that are perfect for any occasion.
• 🕯️ Candles: Fill your home with warmth and exclusive fragrances.
• 🍬 Nostalgic Candy: A sweet trip down memory lane with treats from yesteryear.
• 🥖 Specialty Foods: Indulge in gourmet delights and artisan creations.
• 🎄 Holiday Must-Haves: Deck your halls with our exclusive seasonal selections.

With every visit, uncover new treasures and find the perfect gift for every occasion. Whether you're marking a special moment or simply indulging in a spot of self-care, Goodspeed’s Station has something to captivate your interest.

This treasure trove of unique finds promises a delightful shopping experience, right in the heart of Haddam! 💖

This one is going to be starting on I84 headed to Route 72. Following Route 72 west we are going to veer off the route and take a right onto Forestville Ave, then we are taking a right onto West Main St we are headed west and we pass by Bell City Diner. This is a really cool Diner. With its "glowing trees" inside and outside the diner. You will see a large LOVE sign out front. Here you will find a really good breakfast! Make a stop if your hungry, then continuing on Pine St follow the road and make a left to get back onto Route 72 west, at the corner where you see Aldi take a right onto Middle St and make note of the Pizza house on the right. You will see Hambler Taqueria & Pizzaria. Home of the heart shaped pizza for Valentines Day. So maybe next year you can pick one up there. They also do really good Mexican/American food as well. Before you go under the train tracks make another left onto Riverside Ave, you will see in front of you the Memorial Blvd entrance with their new Clock Face monuments. But we are going to take a right onto Riverside Ave, watch out here there are 2 rights one behind the other. Make the Second turn to get Riverside Ave. As you drive on this road on the left you will see Family Roots Produce Market. Here you will find fresh produce from local farmers. Fruits and vegetables directly from nearby producers. Stop in and take a look at their unique offerings. Continuing down Riverside Ave, if you did not eat before you have another really good restaurant called Riverside Restaurant. They have really great sandwiches there that you might want to take a togo box and save it for later! Then down the street on the right is the Carousel Museum you have to stop and take a look at this gem. Inside you will find some very old carousel horses and more. The history of the carousel as well. It is very interesting! Make a stop honestly you won't regret it. Maybe the kiddie carousel is up and running for the kiddies to ride. Also, just so you know, they do weddings there as well. Check out the second floor. I think they still also have the fire department museum there as well.  Then after that continue down the street and take a right onto Main St, the left onto Summer St, follow Summer St through to Prospect Place - take a left and don't worry it does look like a dead end but you will see signs for Worthwhile Reads at the end on the left. Enter through the gate and you will see a large white building with  Worthwhile Reads on the side of it. GO INSIDE IF ITS OPEN!!! This is a large place featuring used books, old records, video tapes and more! Make it a point to stop.  Once your done in there head back the way you came and take a right onto Center St. (Hill), then at the light take a right onto North Main St, the next intersection you have Race St. on the left, at that corner you will find Latin Cravings here you will find some great empanadas. No Dine in, just take away. So continuing up Race st on the left you will see the signs for Bristol Bazaar. This place is off the chain. They have at least 50 crafters on display. Gifts for any occasion or just get yourself something nice! Right next door is Yellow King Bristol a coffee cocktail lounge. This is a great place to shop and just hang out!  Once your done there go back onto Race St right, then back onto North Main St - Right. You will see a new apartment building with some new shops in the building. One of the shops you might want to stop at is Dark Moon Gifts. which feature Art, jewelry, and home decor. Continuing on North Main st take a left onto School st and it will automatically turn into Memorial Blvd. your going to end up back behind the Clock Face Memorial Bridge. Then back onto Riverside Ave. Take a right onto Middle St, if you never been in this area you  will be on Route 229. Now driving this way you will see ESPN and its campus. before that you will see Wolfs Indoor Range. Here you can get training on guns, apply for safety classes and more. Why not take a crack at some target shooting? Keep going down Route 229 and you will see ESPN main campus, you will see some satellite dishes out front, but if you try to look behind the campus and you will see about 20 more in the back. It is pretty cool. Continuing down Route 229 you will see Hidden Valley Miniature Golf and Waterfront Grill. This place you should come back during the summer when its all open and the outdoor seating next to the waterfall is open. I will cover the grill during the summer. Down the street is the famous Cava Restaurant. Now this is a destination stop. During Christmas with really when it shines with all the lights. They do some really great themes inside there. If you keep following Route 229 you will end up back at I84 to go home. OR Keep Exploring!

Did you know..

The first school for the deaf was created in Hartford in 1816. This happened when Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet an ordained minister  met a deaf girl in front of his parents home. He noticed the girl was uneducated and wanted to help in some way. With help from donations, fund raising and the CT General Assembly the school was opened called CT Asylum for the educations and Instruction for the Deaf and Dumb. After many years in Hartford and the student population growing every year. In 1921 the school moved to West Hartford where today it operates as American School for the Deaf.

 📚 ✈️ 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. 

Chasing Dragonflies

👋 Hello, my name is Melanie! I am a proud mom to a lovely young girl and a proud pet parent as well. As an interior designer by profession, I've always had a passion for crafting and painting.

However, over the past few years, changes like the internet, Covid, and the rise of DIY projects have truly transformed the industry. After 20 wonderful years in design, I am excitedly pivoting to a new venture in crafting. I'm pleased to present hand-curated artisan gifts and decor!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supports my journey. Whether you simply browse or decide to make a purchase from my shop, I appreciate you. 🎨🎁

Much love and creativity,
Melanie 💕

Bloody Good Mud

Hello Bloody Mary Lovers! 🍅🍸

If you’re anything like me and you find yourself reaching for a Bloody Mary over a mimosa at brunch, then you know the struggle of finding just the right mix. I am the person who always brings the Bloody Mary mix to every brunch gathering, yet I constantly face the inevitable: I can never find a mix I truly adore.

Sound familiar? It's a classic conundrum for Bloody Mary enthusiasts. Whether it's missing that perfect balance of spice, the rich tomato essence, or that certain je ne sais quoi, something is always just not quite right.

But here's the good news: This has led me on a delightful quest to discover, mix, and create my own versions, each time bringing me closer to the ideal Bloody Mary! So if you're also in search of the ultimate blend, stay tuned for my favorite recipes and tips in our upcoming newsletters.

Until next time, keep sipping those delicious bloodys and enjoy every spicy, savory sip! 🥂

Events that have an entrance fee will be noted with $

Saturdays: Winter Farm Market 10-1pm 40 Wallace Ave Wallingford

Feb 3 through March 10 (Tuesdays) Hoops 4 Life

              Youth Nutrition Program 33 Griggs St Waterbury

Feb 21 Durham Winter Market 144 Picket Lane Durham. 10-1pm

Feb 19-22 CT Flower and Garden Show at the Convention Center$

March 7 St Patricks Day Parade Hartford

March 7 & * 8 Meriden Mineral and Gem Show

March 7&8 South Windsor International Day Women's Market

          10-4pm CT Valley Brewing Company 765 Sullivan Ave

March 7 Durham Winter Market 144 Picket Lane Durham 10-1pm

March 13, 14 15 90's Con Hartford

March 14 12-6pm Paws for a Cause New Britain VFW Hell Veterans Dr

March 21 - 22.  Dragons Realm ComicCon Danbury

March 21 - 22 Hebron Maple Fest

March 20-21 Glow in the Dark Psychic Fair Crystal Ballerz Rocky Hill

April 11 & 12 CT Cactus & Succulent Society Annual Show & Sale

Maple Sugar Weekend

🎉 Exciting Events: Get ready to explore the delightful world of maple syrup production with unique events all around Connecticut!

• Statewide Maple Weekend (March 21-22): 🍁 Experience the magic as local sugarhouses open their doors, offering tours, sap boiling demonstrations, and tastings of syrup, candy, and fudge.
• Hebron Maple Fest (March 21-22): 🎶 A vibrant town-center festival featuring crafts, live entertainment, and a delightful array of maple products.
• Stamford Museum & Nature Center (March 1, 8, & 15): 🌲 Join in for Sunday festivals showcasing Native American, Colonial, and modern sugaring demos.
• Sweet Wind Farm (East Hartland) (March 14): 🎸 Delve into guided tours, enjoy live music, and savor pancakes!
• Auerfarm (Bloomfield) (March 15-16): 🥞 Don't miss the Annual Pancake Breakfast and Maple Syrup Demonstration.

Other Notable Mentions: 📅 For early starters, check out:

• Dudley Farm in Guilford (Feb 14, 15, 21, 22)

🎓 What to Expect: Dive into educational demos to learn the art of tree tapping and sap boiling. Treat yourself to scrumptious maple-themed delights, including maple cream, candy, and pancake breakfasts. 😋

📅 Season Insight: While the pinnacle of festivities occurs in March, enthusiasts can rejoice from early February through late March during the entire sugaring season. 🌿

Join us for an unforgettable journey through the rich traditions and flavors of maple sugaring — see you there! 🌟

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.

  NEW:

• Sledding slope at Quarry Walk FREE Open from 10am until sundown, bring your own tube or flexible sled
•  

💡 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. 🪖 
• Make sure you can stop safely at the end of your run and that there are no obstecles at the end!
• 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

Weekly Horoscopes and Lucky Numbers 🌟

For the week of February 19 through February 26, 2026, the astrological landscape is dominated by the Sun’s entry into Pisces, heightening intuition and emotional depth for all signs. A significant turning point occurs on February 26, as Mercury stations retrograde in Pisces, urging everyone to finalize critical communication and paperwork early in the week.

• *Aries* (March 21 – April 19): This is a period of serious responsibility. Balance ambition with emotional sensitivity.

   Lucky Numbers: 2, 6, 7, 15, 19, 24

• *Taurus* (April 20 – May 20): Expect "thrilling quests" and plot twists. Social engagement and inner reflection help maintain harmony.

   Lucky Numbers: 1, 5, 9, 14, 23, 79

• *Gemini* (May 21 – June 20): Clarity arrives on February 19. Organize various interests.

    Lucky Numbers: 3, 5, 7, 20, 21, 77

• *Cancer* (June 21 – July 22): Intuition is a superpower. Focus on emotional boundaries and healing old relationship narratives.

   Lucky Numbers: 1, 6, 7, 10, 28, 66

• *Leo* (July 23 – August 22): Recent creative achievements may bring attention. Partnerships will support self-image and confidence. Lucky Numbers: 5, 6, 9, 11, 21, 22
• *Virgo* (August 23 – September 22): Clear news or career progress is expected starting February 19. Avoid "near enemies"—qualities that look like virtues but aren't. Lucky Numbers: 2, 4, 5, 8, 11, 22
• *Libra* (September 23 – October 22): This is a week for steady growth and reflecting on beliefs. Use charm to navigate social complexities. Lucky Numbers: 3, 7, 12, 16, 25, 66
• *Scorpio* (October 23 – November 21): Intense energy on the 20th encourages transforming passion into purpose. Stay honest about which paths are no longer worth pursuing. Lucky Numbers: 1, 4, 6, 8, 10, 26
• *Sagittarius* (November 22 – December 21): February 19 marks a "turning point" where uncertainty ends. Use humor to handle unusual office or social situations. Lucky Numbers: 2, 4, 7, 16, 18, 25
• *Capricorn* (December 22 – January 19): Financial conditions are expected to improve. Review long-term commitments mid-week to maintain stability. Lucky Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 9, 11, 27
• *Aquarius* (January 20 – February 18): Self-image is being transformed by recent shifts. Investigate new ideas for extra income. Lucky Numbers: 2, 4, 7, 10, 12, 29
• *Pisces* (February 19 – March 20): Expect a "sweet escape" from old confusion as fresh opportunities arise. Trust intuition as Mercury prepares to retrograde in your sign. Lucky Numbers: 5, 6, 7, 12, 27, 51

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