• Art,  Baby,  food,  San Diego

    Sowing the Seeds of Learning with Our Food Grows

    Understanding where food comes from is a fundamental part of developing a healthy relationship with what we eat. In Our Food Grows, author Sarah M. White introduces young readers to the journey of fruits, vegetables, and grains from the farm to the table. With vibrant illustrations by Tessa Gibbs, this engaging picture book offers a delightful and accessible look at the natural processes that bring food to our plates.

    A Celebration of Growing and Eating

    Perfect for curious kids and budding gardeners, Our Food Grows invites children to explore the wonders of nature and agriculture. Whether inspiring young minds to start their own garden or teaching them about healthy eating, this book provides a hands-on, interactive approach to food education.

    Key Features:

    • Early Food Education – Simple, easy-to-understand explanations of how food is grown and harvested.
    • Connecting with Nature – Bright, collage-based illustrations help children appreciate the environment.
    • Healthy Eating Habits – Encourages positive attitudes toward food from an early age.
    • Interactive and Engaging – Sparks curiosity about gardening and sustainability.

    Meet the Author

    Sarah M. White is an author, educator, and mom who writes in both English and Spanish. She has authored several children’s books for Spanish-language learners, as well as the adult memoir-in-verse Today I Left the House: Diary of a First-Time Mom. Her work has been featured in Highlights High Five magazine, and she is a member of SCBWI and Redbud Writers Guild. Sarah lives in Madison, Wisconsin, with her family, where she enjoys reading, writing, and spending time outdoors.

    Meet the Illustrator

    Tessa Gibbs is an artist and stay-at-home mom who loves creating illustrations inspired by nature, food, and animals. She enjoys experimenting with different artistic mediums and hopes to instill a love for creativity in her children. Born and raised in Wisconsin, she now lives in Madison with her husband and two children.

    With its engaging storytelling and vibrant artwork, Our Food Grows is a joyful celebration of food and nature that teaches children the importance of understanding where their meals come from.

  • Art,  Books,  Children's Books,  San Diego

    A Magical Journey Through Nature: Animal Adventures: Day in the Forest

    Animal Adventures: Day in the Forest by Alexandra Claire is a delightful board book that brings the wonders of the woodland to life for young readers. Designed for ages 0-3, this beautifully crafted book combines stunning photography with gentle, rhythmic rhymes to create a captivating experience perfect for early learners and nature lovers alike.

    A Visual and Rhythmic Delight

    From sunrise to sunset, little ones will follow along as foxes, squirrels, rabbits, and other woodland creatures explore their forest home. The vibrant, full-color images and lyrical text work together to engage a child’s curiosity and foster a love for nature. The book’s calming tone and rhythmic storytelling make it an excellent choice for bedtime reading, helping little ones wind down while immersing them in the magic of the forest.

    A Perfect Addition to Any Child’s Library

    With its sturdy board book format, Day in the Forest is built to withstand little hands eager to explore its pages. Whether given as a baby shower gift, a birthday present, or simply as a bedtime favorite, this book is sure to become a treasured part of any child’s reading routine.

    A Series That Grows with Young Readers

    Part of the Animal Adventures series, this book is a wonderful introduction to the natural world. Young readers who enjoy it can continue their journey with Animal Adventures: Day at the Farm, making it a fantastic series for fostering early learning and a connection to the environment.

    If you’re looking for a beautifully illustrated, engaging book that nurtures a love for nature and storytelling, Animal Adventures: Day in the Forest is a must-have addition to your child’s bookshelf.

    The Collective Book Studio is a woman-owned, full-service publishing studio that works with authors, brands, and companies to create, develop, and publish high-quality books. With a focus on innovative content and striking design, The Collective Book Studio offers a unique approach to the publishing process, providing clients with expertise and collaborative support from concept to creation.
  • Art,  Books,  Children's Books,  San Diego

    A Vibrant Celebration of Self-Expression: No One Owns the Colors

    Winner of the Bookstagang Best of 2023 Picture Book Award for Best Read Aloud and a 2024 CIPA EVVY Awards Bronze Winner, No One Owns the Colors by Gianna Davy is a powerful picture book that encourages children to embrace their individuality and express themselves freely.

    A Bold Message of Inclusivity and Confidence

    With rhythmic, melodic text, this book delivers an empowering message: colors belong to everyone. No hue—whether pink, blue, or chartreuse—is restricted to a single gender, group, or culture. Instead, colors are a reflection of the natural world, meant to be enjoyed and celebrated by all. Inspired by real schoolyard experiences, Davy’s words give young readers the confidence to push back against outdated stereotypes and proudly embrace their personal choices—whether it’s the color of their clothing, art, or identity.

    Whimsical Illustrations That Bring Colors to Life

    Brenda Rodriguez’s bright, expressive artwork beautifully complements the book’s message. With a playful and dynamic style, her illustrations reflect the joy and diversity of color in both nature and human expression. The visual storytelling enhances the book’s impact, making it both engaging and thought-provoking for young readers.

    A Must-Have for Young Readers and Classrooms

    Perfect for parents, teachers, and caregivers, No One Owns the Colors is an excellent addition to any bookshelf. Its message of acceptance and individuality aligns with contemporary favorites like Pink is for Boys and The World Needs More Purple People. Whether read aloud at home or shared in a classroom setting, this book is a valuable tool for sparking discussions about self-expression, inclusion, and confidence.

    With its lyrical storytelling and vibrant illustrations, No One Owns the Colors is a joyful and essential celebration of creativity, identity, and the boundless possibilities of color.

  • Baby,  Gift Guide,  Home Decoration,  Las Vegas,  San Diego

    Keep the Magic Alive: Introducing the Tooth Fairy Flylight

    Remember the childhood thrill of placing a lost tooth under your pillow, eagerly awaiting a visit from the Tooth Fairy? That magical experience is one that many parents hope to recreate for their little ones. Now, there’s a way to make this tradition even more enchanting—introducing the Tooth Fairy Flylight, the first-of-its-kind magical light that signals the Tooth Fairy’s arrival!

    A Modern Twist on a Timeless Tradition

    The Tooth Fairy Flylight takes the classic tooth-losing milestone and turns it into an unforgettable family tradition. Instead of simply placing a tooth under the pillow, kids can now use the Flylight Nightlight to notify the Tooth Fairy with a dazzling display of colorful lights. This interactive approach helps keep the wonder alive, especially in a world where children start questioning the magic around them.

    Created by Brooke Meisenzahl, a mom who wanted to make the Tooth Fairy experience more meaningful for her daughter, the Tooth Fairy Flylight is designed to make every lost tooth feel like a special event. The Flylight not only adds an extra layer of excitement, but it also includes a beautifully illustrated storybook that explains the Tooth Fairy’s whimsical world and a Little Tooth Notebook for kids to record all their toothy milestones.

    Why Families Love the Tooth Fairy Flylight

    Parents are raving about how the Flylight makes the Tooth Fairy visit more engaging and memorable. It’s more than just a nightlight—it’s a keepsake that turns a simple tradition into a cherished childhood memory.

    The Tooth Fairy Flylight Bundle ($40) includes:

    • The Storybook – A heartwarming tale that answers fun questions like, “Where do lost teeth go?”
    • The Flylight Nightlight – A magical light show that beams colorful shapes onto the ceiling to signal the Tooth Fairy.
    • The Little Tooth Notebook – A special activity book for kids to record their tooth-losing adventures.

    A Magical Experience in Action

    There’s nothing quite like witnessing the magic of the Tooth Fairy Flylight firsthand. The anticipation builds as a child gently places their lost tooth in the tray, eyes wide with excitement. With a simple press of a button, the room transforms—the ceiling comes to life with a vibrant dance of glowing shapes, and an air of wonder fills the space. In that moment, the magic is real.

    Parents share stories of their children giggling with delight, whispering hopeful messages to the Tooth Fairy, and drifting off to sleep with the comforting glow of the Flylight by their side. It’s more than just a fun gadget—it’s a way to capture the fleeting wonder of childhood, ensuring that every lost tooth becomes a treasured memory.

    Celebrate Tooth Fairy Day with 25% Off!

    To make this magical experience even sweeter, Tooth Fairy Flylight is offering an exclusive 25% off sitewide in celebration of Tooth Fairy Day!

    📅 Sale Dates: February 23 – March 1
    Discount Code: MAGICAL25

    This is the perfect opportunity to start a new family tradition and bring some extra magic into your child’s life. Don’t miss out on this special deal!

    For more details and to shop the Tooth Fairy Flylight, visit toothfairyflylight.com and follow along on Instagram @toothfairyflylight. ✨

  • food,  Gift Guide,  Los Angeles,  New York,  San Diego

    Mixly Cocktail Co.: Elevate Your Holiday Gatherings with Perfect Mixers

    The holidays are fast approaching, bringing with them a season of joy, celebration, and festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting an elegant soirée, attending a cozy get-together, or simply indulging in creative drinks at home, Mixly Cocktail Co. offers the perfect mixers to make your holiday moments even more memorable.

    Based in Minneapolis, Mixly creates all-natural, non-alcoholic cocktail and mocktail mixers that make crafting delicious drinks effortless. With premium ingredients, no preservatives, and a perfectly balanced sweetness, their mixers blend bold fruit juices, zesty citrus, and golden honey to deliver refreshing and flavorful creations for any occasion.

    Why Choose Mixly for Your Holiday Celebrations?

    Mixly’s mixers are more than just ingredients; they’re tools for bringing people together. Designed for versatility, they make it easy to craft signature cocktails or alcohol-free mocktails that everyone can enjoy. Their commitment to quality and creativity ensures every sip is a delight, making Mixly a thoughtful gift or an essential addition to your holiday bar cart.

    Standout Gift Ideas from Mixly

    Whether you’re shopping for a cocktail enthusiast, a host, or anyone who loves a touch of creativity in their drinks, Mixly has options to suit every taste:

    1. Winter Bundle ($67)
      A trio of seasonal favorites perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. This bundle inspires festive creations, from warming mocktails to classic cocktails, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing gift.
    2. Spritz Mixer Duo ($27)
      Add a touch of sparkling sophistication to any occasion with this dynamic duo. Ideal for champagne toasts, light cocktails, or bubbly non-alcoholic refreshments, these mixers elevate simple ingredients into show-stopping drinks.
    3. Limited Edition Strawberry Rhubarb Mixer ($20)
      This bright and balanced blend is like spring in a bottle. Perfect for holiday mimosas, punches, or creative signature drinks, it’s a versatile favorite that transitions beautifully into the new year.

    Where to Find Mixly

    Mixly’s products are available online at MixlyCocktailCo.com, on Mixly’s Amazon Store, and in over 450 retail locations across the U.S. and Canada.

    Celebrate Creatively This Holiday Season

    With Mixly’s mixers, you can effortlessly create drinks that delight and impress your guests. Their dedication to quality, innovation, and natural ingredients ensures every pour is packed with flavor, making them the perfect addition to your holiday celebrations or a thoughtful gift for anyone on your list.

    This season, let Mixly Cocktail Co. bring a touch of creativity, flavor, and joy to your holiday gatherings and gift-giving. Cheers to celebrating with style!

  • Health,  Los Angeles,  New York,  San Diego

    Spilling the Tea with The Old Farmer’s Almanac!

    Peace, happiness, and joy are possible during the time I drink my tea.”
    – Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Zen Master
    Next to water, tea is the most widely consumed drink in the world – 3.7 billion cups daily in one recent year. There are basic reasons for this. Tea quenches our thirst. We like the taste. It warms us up on a cold day and refreshes us on a scorcher. We brew a cup of Irish breakfast to get going in the A.M. and a mug of soothing chamomile before bed. Just the act of making a “cuppa” can be restorative. This is especially true in the UK, according to anthropologist Kate Fox: “Whenever the English feel awkward or uncomfortable in a situation (that is, almost all the time), they make tea.”
    Tea has been around for two millennia or so; in 2016, archaeologists discovered tea in a Chinese emperor’s tomb dating from 141 B.C., well past its “best by” date. One of the world’s oldest and most popular drinks, tea is also one of the best for your health.
    A Drink A Day
    A translated ancient Chinese proverb posits that “drinking a daily cup of tea will surely starve the apothecary.” In fact, tea was probably first imbibed as a medicine. Lu Yu, the Chinese author of Ch’a Ching, or “The Classic of Tea,” promoted its healthfulness in the 8th century. In 1657, Garraway’s Coffee House in London became the first business to sell tea in England, advertising that it “maketh the Body active and lusty . . . helpeth the Headache . . . removeth the Obstructions of the Spleen” and was “good against Lipitude Distillations.” Quaint language aside (“lippitude” refers to bleary eyes), Garraway’s was onto something. We know today that the caffeine in tea can alleviate a headache and may speed up the action of a pain reliever.
    Caffeine is just one component of tea that can be beneficial. Catechins – a type of polyphenols, or plant chemicals with antioxidant properties – are also being studied for their preventative and curative powers. Here’s a sampling of some of the more promising findings.
    • A 2020 meta-analysis of an array of studies found that drinking two to three cups of black or green tea a day was associated with a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease and a lower risk of cardiac events and stroke. Other studies have suggested related cardiovascular benefits, such as the potential to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
    • A 2021 review of research into green tea found that it has potential as a flu-fighter and may ward off the common cold.
    • According to a 2022 article in Molecules, the catechins in green and black tea may have prophylactic and therapeutic effects on Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
    • A study published in 2023 showed that drinking tea may lower the risk of osteoporosis and hip fractures. This is encouraging news, given that osteoporosis affects millions and is difficult to treat.
    The 2025 Old Farmer’s Almanac is available wherever books and magazines are sold. Support local booksellers whenever possible! A full list of stores that carry The Old Farmer’s Almanac is available at Almanac.com/WheretoBuy. Print and digital copies of The 2025 Old Farmer’s Almanac are also available online at Almanac.com/Shop and on Amazon.
    The Old Farmer’s Almanac—with its iconic yellow cover and classic corner hole—originates from Yankee Publishing Inc., a 100% employee-owned company in Dublin, New Hampshire. The Almanac’s editors also produce their annual Garden Guide, digital monthly magazine EXTRA!, The Old Farmer’s Almanac for Kids (Vol. 10 now available), and a collection of wall and desk calendars, including The Old Farmer’s Almanac Planner. Also available is their online garden-design tool, the Garden Planner.
    They also publish a collection of gardening titles, such as the Container Gardener’s Handbook (released in Spring 2024), the Flower Gardener’s Handbook, and the Vegetable Gardener’s Handbook (now in its seventh printing!).
    Daily Almanac wit and wisdom are available through Almanac.com, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, and the Amazon Echo voice assistant.