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"Level Up Your Weekend with Gaming!

"Level Up Your Weekend with Gaming!
Exploring Bridgeport Antiques.

Mayra Dube

Feb 26, 2026

Get In Some Fun Gaming  At Nomad's Adventure Quest!

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!

Welcome to Elm Street Books! Nestled in the charming town of New Canaan, CT, we’ve been a cornerstone for book lovers since 2003. Our quaint space, spanning approximately 1700 square feet, is home to an impressive collection of over 22,000 books πŸ“š!

But our shelves don't stop at books. We offer an eclectic assortment of gifts 🎁, cards πŸƒ, and toys 🧸 suitable for both adults and children. Whether you're looking for the perfect present or a delightful new read, Elm Street Books is your one-stop destination.

We proudly serve the communities of New Canaan, Darien, Wilton, Stamford, Pound Ridge, and Norwalkβ€”and beyond!

Our passionate staff of dedicated readers ensures a unique shopping experience with exceptional customer service and top-notch recommendations πŸ“š.

Join us for our regular author events held right in our store, fostered through partnerships with our beloved local libraries, including New Canaan Library, Wilton Library, and Stamford/Ferguson Library. These events are splendid opportunities to connect with your favorite authors and fellow book enthusiasts.

We hope you'll stop by soon and allow us to share the joy of reading with you! We can’t wait for you to explore the world of stories we’ve lovingly curated. 😊

 

✨ 🌟 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. ❀️

πŸ§₯πŸ‘• 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? 🧡🎁

πŸ’– Make a Memory from a cherished sweatshirt.

Our Products Include:

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

Don't forget, we also offer sewing lessons upon request for those eager to learn and explore! πŸ§΅βœ‚οΈ

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

πŸŽ„πŸŒŸ Think of us for your holiday needs and bring some personalized warmth to your celebrations this year! 🎁✨

 

 

🌟 Welcome to Central Rock Gymβ€”your ultimate destination for world-class, indoor rock climbing and fitness! Our mission is not just to provide premium facilities but to foster enduring relationships and build strong communities through exceptional programs and events. Here's a sneak peek into what makes us more than just a gym:

  • πŸ’ͺ Youth Programs: Cultivate a love for climbing from a young age with initiatives designed to challenge and inspire our younger members.
  • πŸŽ‰ Member Events: Engage with fellow climbers through a variety of social gatherings and workshops aimed at building camaraderie and skills.
  • πŸ† Competitions: Test your skills and compete against others in a fun and supportive environment.
  • 🀝 Fundraising Events: Give back to the community and support worthy causes while enjoying the sport you love.

Our goal is to ensure a welcoming and accessible atmosphere for everyone, regardless of their experience or background. Whether you're a seasoned climber or new to the sport, every step you take with us is a step towards a more connected community and a healthier you!

 

On this trip we are going to explore some of Bridgeport. Lets head down Route 8 South almost to the end we are getting off Exit 1D Route 130, when you get off the exit your going to go through the light and stay left to merge onto the round-about that is on the left. That merge is tricky! once you do the round-about your going to turn right onto Route 130. 130 is also Fairfield Ave. Once you make that right there are alot of places to eat. If you like bagels then Bagel King of Bridgeport should be one of your stops. They've got to be good being there since 1969! Heading east on 130 you will come to Brass Pro Shops. This store is pretty cool and they have a bowling alley in there to check out as well. If you want to take in some seafood instead take a right onto East Main st and follow it down to the shore and make a stop at Boca Oyster Bar. Here you will find some great seafood with views of The Bridgeport Ferry as it heads out to Long Island. Then when your done head back to Route 130 and take a right, follow it East and look out for Hollister Ave which will change to Lordship Blvd, keep an eye out for Honeyspot Rd take a left there. Following that up the road you will come to Stratford Antique Center. This is a large warehouse with lots of great finds! Expect to spend some time looking around. Then head back down Honeyspot Rod the way you came and then at the end take a left back onto Lordship Blvd follow it and watch out for the fork -stay right. Then look out for Oak Bluff Ave take a left there and at the round about stay right onto Prospect Drive then Left onto Stratford Rd. You will see signs for Short Beach. If its nice out why not make a stop to take a little walk? If you don't stop keep going on Stratford Rd up the road is the CT Air and Space Center. This is a great stop to make and see this museum, they have aircraft, helicopters and vehicles on display. Then after keep an eye out for Sniffens Lane. Down the road you will come to Mellow Monkey Gift Shoppe. This place is really nice - its worth the stop. Then go back the way you came on Sniffens Lane and turn right back onto Main St. Going back up Main st keep an eye out for a left turn which is West Broad St which will get you onto Route 95 to head home or Keep Exploring!

Did you know..

Amelia Simmons Published the first American cookbook called American Cookery it was printed in Hartford in 1796. With such recipes like Dress a Calves Head, Potato Cake and a popular drink called Syllabub.

 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!

 

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. 

 

Matt’s Craft: Leather Goods with Character πŸ‘œ

Matt's passion for craftsmanship shines through in every piece he creates. His **unique, minimalist leather wallets** are more than just accessories; they are works of art with a signature touch. Each wallet is laser-cut πŸ”ͺ, hand-stitched 🧡, and built to last, making them the perfect statement piece. Inside many of these wallets, you'll find a **trout logo cutout**, a subtle yet meaningful nod 🎣 to his love for fishing and the essence of Big Fish Designs.

But Matt doesn't stop at wallets; he extends his craftsmanship to handcrafted leather bags, keychains, and earrings. πŸ‘œπŸ”‘πŸ‘‚ What’s truly remarkable is how he incorporates **leftover trout cutouts** from the wallets into his earrings, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Each piece tells its own story, making it both unique and environmentally conscious.

Samantha’s Craft: Candle Design with Purpose πŸ•―οΈ

Samantha transforms her lifelong love for candles into a tangible experience with Big Fish Designs. Her candles offer comfort and a sense of home by pairing **unique fragrances** with beautiful vessels. Each candle is hand-poured 🏺 using all-natural soy wax, cotton wicks, and premium fragrance oils, ensuring they are as safe as they are delightful. 🌿

Our candles are **phthalate-free, RIFM compliant, and IFRA compliant**, making them an ideal choice for a clean and safe home 🌍 without compromising on quality or style. Each candle aims to elevate your space, offering something truly one of a kind.

Our Promise 🀝

At Big Fish Designs, we are committed to creating pieces that blend thought, purpose, and craftsmanship. Whether it's a meticulously crafted leather wallet or a small-batch soy candle, our goal is simple: to provide you with beautiful and useful pieces that make your space or pocket feel a little more special ✨.

 

 

πŸ› οΈ **_Transformative Creativity at Its Best!_** 🌿

We're thrilled to share a bit about the passion that fuels our days and brings endless joy to our lives! My husband and I have developed a deep love for the art of renewalβ€”specifically, the three R's: Reuse, Refurbish, Recycle. When you see potential in every piece of discarded wood or an old window frame, every project becomes a canvas waiting to be transformed.

From crafting beautiful hand-painted signs that tell stories, to designing charming decorated windows that capture memories, we dive into each creation with enthusiasm and gratitude. It's not just about crafting objects; it’s about breathing new life into materials that others may overlook. Working together has strengthened our bond, and every completed project feels like a shared victory. πŸ₯‡

We’re truly blessed to share this creative journey, turning the ordinary into extraordinary, all while being aligned with our love for the environment. Embracing the opportunity to create something unique together is as fulfilling as the projects themselves. πŸ’‘βœ¨

Why not join us in this sustainable journey and see the world through the eyes of transformation and creativity? Let’s make magic out of the mundane! 🌟

 

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

πŸŽ‰ 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): πŸ₯ž Don't miss the Annual Pancake Breakfast and Maple Syrup Demonstration.

Other Notable Mentions: πŸ“… For early starters, check out:

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

πŸŽ“ 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. πŸ˜‹

πŸ“… 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 β€” 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. πŸ›·

  • 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. β›„
  • 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. πŸŽΆπŸ”
  • 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
  •  

πŸ’‘ 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. πŸͺ– 
  • 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. πŸ“ž
  • 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. πŸ€Έβ€β™‚οΈ
  • Nelsons Field - Bristol Corner of 69 and Maple Ave
  • Walnut Hill Park - New Britain

 

 

🌌 **Astrological Update: February 26 - March 5, 2026** 🌌

As we move through an intriguing cosmic period, Mercury enters retrograde in Pisces on February 26. This transit is happening amidst a dynamic _eclipse portal_ and promises a mix of *nostalgic reflections* and *potential miscommunications*. Keep an eye on the energies at play as you navigate through these celestial shifts.

  • Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19): Focus on inner needs. Practical goals may gain momentum, but it's important to pause before acting. Lucky Numbers: 1, 9, 15, 2, 7, 20
  • Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20): Career progress remains steady, but it's best to avoid impulsive financial moves. Lucky Numbers: 8, 11, 22, 5, 14, 29
  • Gemini (May 21 – Jun 20): Networking may open profitable doors. Lucky Numbers: 4, 8, 13, 26, 31, 40
  • Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22): Look for *deepening emotional closeness* and growing intuition. Lucky Numbers: 2, 6, 1, 7, 16, 25
  • Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 22): Expect a surge in confidence and creative breakthroughs. Lucky Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 10, 19, 28
  • Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22): Steady career progress continues. Mercury retrograde may bring up past relationships or unresolved emotions. Lucky Numbers: 3, 5, 7, 12, 21, 30
  • Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22): Relationship clarity may arrive. Slow down and assess needs. Lucky Numbers: 6, 7, 9, 15, 24, 33
  • Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21): This is a good time for innovation and popularity. Be cautious with new business deals. Lucky Numbers: 2, 8, 11, 17, 26, 35
  • Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21): Emphasize health and finding peace of mind. Revisit past travel or educational plans. Lucky Numbers: 3, 6, 7, 12, 27, 30
  • Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19): Emotional awareness fuels steady career growth. Remain steady, especially when others are struggling with confusion. Lucky Numbers: 1, 4, 5, 8, 13, 26
  • Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18): Innovative thinking may open doors to success. Relationship clarity may arrive. Lucky Numbers: 7, 8, 11, 15, 19, 25
  • Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20): This is a transformative and highly intuitive time. Creative inspiration may help advance goals. Lucky Numbers: 2, 4, 6, 11, 12, 16

Let the cosmic energies guide you through these *dynamic times*, and harness the power of the *rare Mercury retrograde in Pisces* to tap into your *intuitive and reflective sides*. Stay patient and mindful of potential miscommunications, and explore the opportunities that arise through self-reflection and awareness. 🌠

 

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