Archives for June 23, 2021

Celebrate Pride Month with these Children’s books!

Here are two Picture books that I highly recommend! I’M NOT A GIRL by Maddox Lyons and Jessica Verdi; illustrated by Dana Simpson (Roaring Brook Press, August 4, 2020, Ages 3-7): Based on a true transgender identity journey, the picture book I’M NOT A GIRL is an empowering story from writers Maddox Lyons and Jessica Verdi about a boy who is determined to be himself.

ODDBIRD by Derek Desierto (Feiwel & Friends, On Sale May 25, 2021, Ages 2-5): A picture book by New York Times bestselling illustrator Derek Desierto about a bird who doesn’t fit in…at first! The story was in part informed by Derek’s experience growing up as a gay individual and feeling pressured to dress, speak, and act like his peers. 

This next one is a great middle school age book!

SPIN WITH ME by Ami Polonsky (Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR), November 10, 2020, ages 8-12): This is a thoughtful LGBT middle-grade novel that carefully traverses an early romance between a girl and a gender non-binary tween.

You can find all three books at https://us.macmillan.com/mackids/

Self Disclosure: I received copies of the above books to feature for the month of June. Cover images were also provided.

Dana Point Harbor Kicks Off Summer with Sidewalk Sale, Live Music, and Giveaways

Dana Point Harbor invites visitors to kick-off the summer season with the Harbor’s Summer Sidewalk Sale happening Friday, June 25 and Saturday, June 26 from 11 am – 3 pm. Each day, select Harbor shops and restaurants will offer special sales and giveaways for visitors, as well as live music from Olivia Ooms and Zach Churchill to entertain guests as they shop.

Participating retailers include Killer Dana Surf Shop offering 30-75 percent off select items and Bella Bazaar will offer sales on their coastal inspired gifts. Local surf enthusiasts can stop by Woody Hut to shop and receive a free gift with their purchase.

For Harbor foodies, Jon’s Fish Market will offer a sale on a variety of their fresh seafood including shellfish, crab, oysters, mussels and more, while visitors with a sweet tooth will receive a chocolate dolphin with every purchase made at Chocolate Soldier. Lil’ Skippers Snack Shack will offer specials on select drinks, snacks and treats for those who need a quick and delicious snack while shopping.

Visitors to the Harbor will also have the opportunity to schedule a 4th of July themed mini photoshoot with Style my Holidays on June 26 and 27. Don’t miss a chance to capture lasting memories with family and friends during a fun outdoor experience.

Guests who shop during the Summer Sidewalk Sale can enter to win a Harbor Prize Package including giveaways from Harbor retailers like Killer Dana Surf Shop and Jon’s Fish Market. Summer Sidewalk Sale shoppers are encouraged to email their receipts to info@danapointharbor.com by Sunday, June 27 to enter. Three winners will be chosen at random and contacted via email on Tuesday, June 29.

Celebrate the summer season at Dana Point Harbor and experience all of the adventure and fun this seaside destination has to offer. For more information visit DanaPointHarbor.com or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Credit: Dana Point Harbor.

Dallas, June 24th Pet of the Week!

Meet a sweet, social fella with a heart as big as Texas! Dallas, an 8-year-old male Husky,has a calm, gentle personality and is as comfy on a leash as a cowpoke on a stallion. He’s an owner surrender, so he needs to get home on the range soon. Adoptions are now conducted through appointment only, so call 562-570-PETS or email PetAdopt@longbeach.gov to meet Dallas. Ask for ID#A499484.

(This rescue encouraged by the usual suspects.)