Connecticut Gazette
|Connecticut Gazette

Subscribe

CT is Insane! Find some Love in A Good Book

|
Connecticut Gazette

Connecticut Gazette

Archives

CT is Insane! Find some Love in A Good Book

CT is Insane! Find some Love in A Good Book
Do you really look around when you drive? Check out the Merritt

Mayra Dube

Mar 5, 2026

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!

πŸ“š Fresh-faced, cozy, inviting, creative - I’m loving this book lounge! πŸšͺ✨ With beautiful barn doors and separate genre rooms, this place is designed to make you lose yourself in the magic of books. πŸ“–β˜•οΈ A coffee stand, bright open windows, and clever decor make it the perfect escape. πŸ’‘πŸͺ΄

Within just five minutes, I found a book, settled in, and started reading, completely absorbed in the moment. If you love books and a cozy atmosphere, Blush Book Lounge is definitely worth checking out! 🌟 Don't miss out on this literary haven. πŸ“–πŸ₯°

 

DON'T FORGET MOTHERS DAY! DON'T WAIT TO THE LAST MINUTE TO ORDER! MAKE HER SOMETHING SPECIAL!

✨ 🌟 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! 🎁✨

 

🎢 Discover the Magic of Vinyl! 🎢

Uncover a world of nostalgia and pop culture treasures at the Vinyl Records & Pop Culture Shop, conveniently located at 446 Main St in Monroe, CT. Dive into our extensive collection featuring both new and used vinyl, ensuring music lovers of all generations find something to cherish. 🎡

Our store is a haven for collectors and enthusiasts alike, providing a diverse range of retro merchandise, including LPs, CDs, DVDs, Video, Laserdiscs, and even toys. Feel the thrill of going crate diggin' for that perfect record or explore other music and movie formats that let you relive the classics in style. 🎧

We’re open daily from 11 AM to 6 PM, Tuesday through Sunday, ready to welcome you into a paradise of sound and nostalgia. Relive the past and create new memories with us! πŸ“€

Follow our journey and stay updated with our latest offerings: @retrospinshop and don’t forget to use our hashtags #records #retrospinshop #recordshop #vinylrecords if you snap any finds during your visit.

Come over and spin some nostalgia, we can’t wait to see what you discover! πŸŽ‰

Seeing that we drive around alot. I thought this video I found would be a great thing to view in this section. But I gotta say. There is one part of the Merritt I really don't like. For instance WHO decided to put a bunch of Spiders all around part of a Bridge? I just cannot get why? Have you seen it? Maybe go on a quest to see it!? Head to Fairfield area, look out for Merwins Lane overpass. Look at the rails above.

Did you Know..

🎨 The New Britain Museum of American Art (NBMAA) stands proud as the first U.S. institution dedicated exclusively to American art! 🎨

Founding and Early History

  • Established in 1903: The museum roots trace back to the New Britain Institute, chartered in 1853, aimed at providing educational resources for the city's immigrant factory workers.
  • The Talcott Gift: In a groundbreaking moment in 1903, industrialist and former New Britain mayor John Butler Talcott contributed $20,000 in gold bonds, establishing a fund for "original modern oil paintings." πŸ’°πŸŽ
  • Defining the Mission: On the recommendation of Bryson Burroughs from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the institute made the audacious decision to focus entirely on American artβ€”a bold step during an era when most U.S. museums were enamored with European masterpieces. πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡ΈπŸ–ΌοΈ

 

 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. 

 

🎨 BrandyWine Pottery: A Family Legacy 🎨

Welcome to BrandyWine Pottery, a charming family-owned pottery shop. Brandy was mentored by the esteemed potter, Sally Watson, an experience that solidified her belief that pottery was her destined path. For years, Brandy juggled her love for pottery with a full-time job, dedicating evenings and weekends to her craft. But the pull of her passion could not be denied!

In Spring 2001, Brandy transformed her passion into a full-time venture, opening what we now cherish as BrandyWine Pottery. Just a few years later, in 2006, her husband Jason joined her full-time, and since then, the shop has experienced steady growth. 🀝

Experience the beauty and craftsmanship of pottery that is deeply rooted in family tradition and undeniable love for the art.

 

 

At Ratlum Mountain Wood Craft, we pride ourselves on our artisan craftsmanship, delivering high-quality, bespoke wood and acrylic products that are not only visually stunning but also incredibly functional. 🌟

  • Pens: Crafted with precision and attention to detail, our pens are perfect for those who appreciate the elegance of handwritten communication. βœ’οΈ
  • Keychains: Elevate your everyday accessories with our unique keychains, each piece is a testament to our commitment to quality. πŸ—οΈ
  • Bookmarks: Whether you're diving into a novel or studying for an exam, our bookmarks are the perfect companion to your reading adventures. πŸ“š
  • Bottle Openers and Stoppers: Enjoy your favorite beverages with our stylish and durable bottle openers and stoppers, combining functionality with flair. 🍾
  • Wood Lamps: Add a touch of warmth and elegance to any room with our beautifully designed wooden lamps, sure to illuminate any space. πŸ’‘
  • Custom Shelves: Whether it's for display or storage, our custom shelves are both a practical solution and a decorative statement. πŸͺœ

Each product is meticulously handcrafted from the finest quality materials available, ensuring that you won’t just own a productβ€”you'll own a piece of art. Transform your space, elevate your style, and express your uniqueness with our extraordinary creations. 🀩

 

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

March 7 On The Farm Needle Felting Workshop LEAF

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.

 

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: March 8th - 14th, 2026 🌟

As we move through this week, the cosmos presents a dynamic blend of energies. Jupiter stations direct in Cancer on March 10th, showering many with growth and luck. However, with Mercury still retrograde in Pisces until March 20th, be prepared for a sprinkle of mental fog or communication delays. Read on for your horoscope and this week's lucky numbers!


β™ˆ Aries (March 21 – April 19)
A profound psychological shift may occur on March 8th as you unveil deeper emotional truths. With Venus in your sign, expect a surge of boldness and assertiveness in matters of the heart.
Lucky Numbers: 1, 9, 10, 19, 28, 33

♉ Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Connections with ancestors and family roots will guide you. Align your ambitions with a greater purpose, especially during professional collaborations.
Lucky Numbers: 5, 6, 14, 17, 26, 40

β™Š Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Emphasize meeting work or family obligations. Use Mercury's retrograde to clarify your social standing.
Lucky Numbers: 2, 7, 8, 11, 20, 22

β™‹ Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Expect high professional energy! With Jupiter turning direct in your sign, personal growth skyrockets.
Lucky Numbers: 2, 4, 7, 8, 14, 21

β™Œ Leo (July 23 – August 22)
A potential financial or career breakthrough beckons. With Venus and Saturn aligning on March 8th, turn dreams into realities.
Lucky Numbers: 1, 5, 8, 15, 24, 30

♍ Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Balance personal needs with relationship demands. Grounding and clarity are essential.
Lucky Numbers: 3, 5, 8, 14, 20, 26

β™Ž Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Consider a digital detox. A shift in work or creative energy increases your confidence.
Lucky Numbers: 6, 8, 15, 24, 33, 42

♏ Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Navigate interpersonal challenges with emotional clarity. Trust your instincts amid changes.
Lucky Numbers: 3, 7, 9, 18, 27, 36

♐ Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Maintain focus on personal goals to dodge resentment. Stay true to yourself as new adventures unfold.
Lucky Numbers: 3, 6, 9, 12, 17, 30

β™‘ Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Handle change mindfully. Lean on discipline and structure to tackle work responsibilities.
Lucky Numbers: 3, 4, 8, 14, 22, 26

β™’ Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Concentrate on financial and career sectors. Embrace innovation and fresh perspectives.
Lucky Numbers: 7, 8, 14, 16, 25, 31

β™“ Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Mars powers up your week with high energy. During Mercury retrograde, let your intuition steer the ship.
Lucky Numbers: 2, 7, 11, 14, 24, 27

🌟 Navigate the week with the guidance of the stars and seize the opportunities that come your way! 🌟

 

Looking to Make A Change for the New Year?

Affordable online certificate courses offered part-time on your schedule.

Certificate Courses Include some like:

  • 3D printing
  • AI Consultant
  • Bar Owner 
  • Brewery Owner
  • Cannabis Business Owner
  • Criminology 
  • Digital Marketing
  • Grant Writer
  • Graphic Designer
  • Personal Assistant
  • Property Manager
  • Small Business Owner

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

/>
Connecticut Gazette

Category

Link Name

Β© 2026 Connecticut Gazette.


Celebrating Small Gems in Connecticut

Β© 2026 Connecticut Gazette.