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Mother’s Day Gift Guide!

May 7, 2025 By Leave a Comment
https://bbboutiqueandcompany.com/collections

Mother’s Day is almost here! I still can’t believe how fast this year is going! Here are some of my favorite gift suggestions!

I love candles and was delighted to receive such a beautiful one all wrapped up so elegantly. The candle I received smells heavenly and it is my new favorite candle. I light it and quickly escape into relaxation.

It’s so beautiful!

I also want to spotlight Latia Nelson, the founder of BB Boutique & Co., a self-made woman who pushed through homelessness as a single mother while going to school to start her own company.

 In 2015, she experienced homelessness all while working two jobs as a young single mother and college student. Latia knew she was meant for more and leaned into her resourcefulness—creating handmade scented body powders for coworkers—into a thriving brand. She decided to take her background in art, design, and media to craft exquisite candles and luxury fragrance products.

BB Boutique & Co. & Co. isn’t just another luxury fragrance company. It’s a story of grit and perseverance fueled by passion. Latia Nelson spent over a decade crafting multi-sensory experiences that blend artistry, storytelling, and eco-consciousness to get to where she is today. Latia has been acknowledged as a 2020 Marquee’s Who’s Who recipient and an Allure Best of Beauty Award nominee. BB Boutique & Co. partners with 1% for the Planet and initiatives supporting women and young girls, Latia is committed to creating a positive impact on both people and the planet.

A must need for me…Coffee!

I believe that most Moms love coffee! Cambio Roasters, led by former Keurig® Chief Innovation Officer Kevin Hartley, is proud to announce the launch of its groundbreaking aluminum coffee pods. This innovative shift from plastic to aluminum represents a significant advancement in sustainability and coffee quality. The aluminum coffee pod addresses the environmental crisis caused by the 40 million plastic coffee pods that end up in landfills and oceans every day, offering a more eco-friendly and high-quality alternative.

When commenting on the urgency of such a huge transition, Hartley commented, “There’s no sense in compromising the quality of the world’s best organic coffees, expertly roasted and curated, by placing them in a plastic vessel that’s porous. Our landfills are growing at an alarming rate, and the timing is perfect to introduce recyclable aluminum pods. That’s why Cambio is committed to transitioning away from single-use plastics and towards sustainable alternatives.”

Plastic coffee pods are notoriously problematic for the environment, with only 3% of them being successfully recycled into new products. In contrast, aluminum is infinitely recyclable and retains over 60% of the aluminum ever produced in circulation. This makes aluminum a superior choice for both sustainability and recycling efficiency.

Moreover, traditional plastic pods are inadequate at preserving coffee freshness due to their porous nature. Aluminum pods, however, provide a nearly perfect oxygen barrier, ensuring the coffee maintains its intended freshness and flavor from roast to brew. This innovation not only enhances the coffee-drinking experience but also aligns with Cambio Roasters’ commitment to quality and sustainability.

Along with this innovation, Cambio only features 100% organic coffees carefully selected from small farms around the world. And, as always, Cambio donates 20% of its profits to Food 4 Farmers, who work closely with coffee-farming families struggling with food insecurity often for more than 6 months per year. According to Hartley, “This innovation is so exciting because it’s better for coffee, better for the world, and better for you. We hope this helps you fall in love with your Keurig® all over again.” In addition, Cambio announced its new partnership with 4Ocean, founded by two surfers with a mission to eradicate plastic from the world’s oceans.

Cambio Roasters is excited to offer its new aluminum pods in over 1,000 retailers nationwide, including Harris Teeter, Giant Martin, Hannaford and Walmart, as well as through their official website and Amazon, allowing coffee lovers across the country to enjoy a better, more sustainable coffee experience.

For more information about Cambio Roasters and its award-winning sustainable packaging, visit https://cambioroasters.com/.

Non-Affiliation & Disclaimer

Cambio Roasters and its products are not affiliated, associated, endorsed, or in any way connected with Keurig Dr. Pepper Inc. or Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. “Keurig®” and “K-Cup®” are registered trademarks of Keurig Dr. Pepper Inc. Cambio Roasters’ aluminum coffee pods are compatible with Keurig® machines, but Cambio Roasters is an independent brand offering an eco-friendly alternative. Cambio Roasters products are not sponsored, licensed, or approved by Keurig Dr. Pepper Inc.

CASEKOO created a phone case called “Watering Spring.” It will make you smile!

CASEKOO, a pioneer in innovative phone accessories, is thrilled to announce the launch of its highly anticipated Spring Collection. This new series of phone cases is more than just a product line—it’s a celebration of nature, a call to environmental action, and a testament to the power of incremental change. At the heart of the collection lies the thoughtfully designed “Watering Spring” case, a masterpiece that blends artistry, functionality, and a deep commitment to sustainability.

The “Watering Spring” case is a visual ode to rejuvenation and the boundless energy of spring. The design features a verdant green watering can, symbolizing life and growth, as it transforms into a vessel of abundance. From its gracefully curved spout flows not just water, but the spirit of spring itself—birds soaring in freedom, mammals leaping with joy, and flowers blooming in a symphony of colors.

Birds: Adorned in soft pastels and vibrant hues, they represent freedom and the return of warmth.

Mammals: Intricately detailed, they exude playfulness and vitality, captured in mid-leap as if frozen in a moment of pure exuberance.

Flowers: With delicate petals and lush greenery, they embody growth and the timeless beauty of life’s cyclical dance.

Together, these elements create a harmonious tableau that feels alive, as though the scene is in perpetual motion, pouring forth the boundless energy of spring.

It’s really beautiful! Mom will love this phone case! Positivity is so important right now and this will bring happiness. It’s available for the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Find it and others at https://casekoo.com/

Love these glasses!

Moms will love glasses! I love the ones I received to try out from GlassesShop. The Galveston Sunglasses (the black prescription sunglasses in the photo) and the Annapolis glasses in Crystal/Floral (also in photo) are my favorite go-to prescription eyeglasses for reading—and I love that the sunglasses are also great for reading! Usually, I just have regular sunglasses and reading glasses, but with the prescription sunglasses from this website, you can have both! Now how cool is that?!

Not sure which frame suits you? Try their handy face shape detector to find the perfect pair!

Check out their website! They currently have a Mother’s Day special! Buy one, get one free when you use the code: GSBOGO.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this holiday featured post. Images were also provided.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

Book of the Day: The Perfect Mother’s Day Gift for Rom-Com Lovers

May 7, 2025 By Leave a Comment

Introducing The Ultimate Chick Flick Cookbook: Fall in love with over 60 mouthwatering recipes, each inspired by the iconic romantic comedies you adore [RSargent Publishing, April 2025] by Richard S. Sargent, a swoon-worthy new cookbook offering creative food and cocktail pairings for fan-favorite films like Bridget Jones’s Diary, When Harry Met Sally, The Devil Wears Prada, and more.

Richard—an award-winning actor, filmmaker, and culinary enthusiast—invites you to recreate the magic of your favorite rom-coms at home with more than 60 easy-to-make recipes and fun drinking games. In The Ultimate Chick Flick Cookbook, you’ll find irresistible appetizers, entrées, desserts, and cocktails, such as:

  • Ah Ma’s Special Dumplings (Crazy Rich Asians)
  • Slippery Little Suckers (Pretty Woman)
  • Baby’s Leftover Pot Roast (Dirty Dancing)
  • Nine Lives cocktail (Breakfast at Tiffany’s)
  • Black Tea Hot Toddy (Little Women)
  • Cosmo Girl (Legally Blonde)
  • Lonely Chicago Pie (Waitress)
  • Brewski Beer Cheesecake (Barbie)
  • Kalteen Bars (Mean Girls)
  • And so much more!

“This book is my love letter to the romantic comedies I feel are universal,” Richard says. “I felt that by bringing the audience into the film through my love of cooking, it would make the films feel even more relatable.”

I love the movie choices and all the recipes! Here’s one of my favorite recipes:

 Wind beneath my cauliflower wings are so tasty!

Excerpted from The Ultimate Chick Flick Cookbook by Richard S. Sargent. Copyright © 2025 RSargent Publishing. Reprinted with permission from Richard S. Sargent. Palm Springs, CA. All rights reserved.

Wind Beneath My Cauliflower Wings

At a pivotal moment in the film, we hear Bette‘s “Wind Beneath My Wings,“ a timeless classic that is essentially a love letter from CC to Hillary. Even with its ups and downs, their friendship was able to stand the test of time, which might be why this movie makes me cry every damn time.

Difficulty: Easier than building a career on Broadway

Yield: 6 servings

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

2 large heads cauliflower, cut into bite-size “wings”

11/2 cups oat milk

2 cups all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons melted butter, separated

1 tablespoon liquid smoke

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

2 tablespoons salt

2 tablespoons pepper

2 cups panko breadcrumbs

1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

1 cup Frank’s Red Hot

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 teaspoon garlic salt

ranch or bleu cheese dressing, optional

celery sticks, optional

carrot sticks, optional

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F, and wash and dry your cauliflower pieces.

2. In a large bowl, mix the oat milk, flour, 2 tablespoons of the melted butter, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper and whisk until smooth.

3. Using your fingers (or a fork), dip the cauliflower pieces in the batter, toss to coat completely, remove and shake off excess. Set aside.

4. In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, seasoned breadcrumbs, and remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Toss the battered cauliflower in the breadcrumb mixture.

5. Place the cauliflower on a parchment-lined pan and bake for 15 minutes. Flip and cook for another 10 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and the coating is crispy.

6. While the cauliflower is in the oven, heat the Frank’s Red Hot and 1⁄2 cup of butter in a pot on medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the garlic salt and stir to combine.

7. Remove the finished cauliflower from the oven and place it in a large bowl with a lid. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower and put the lid on tightly. Gently toss the wings in the sauce, turning the covered bowl upside down and back again.

8. Plate and serve with ranch or bleu cheese dressing, celery and carrot sticks.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Self Disclosure: I received a free copy of the book to facilitate this holiday post. The images, and information were provided.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Books for Mother’s Day!

May 7, 2025 By Leave a Comment
For the Mom who loves to cook!

The I Love Trader Joe’s® Cookbook: 15th Anniversary Edition by Cherie Mercer Twohy 
$19.95; March 18, 2025
For the parent who loves to cook—or can’t resist a Trader Joe’s run—The I Love Trader Joe’s® Cookbook: 15th Anniversary Edition is packed with fun, budget-friendly, and delicious recipes, perfect for whipping up easy weeknight meals, party-ready bites, and special treats with their favorite TJ’s finds! 

One of my favorite recipes is the General TSAO Chicken Wraps! I love that the recipes are simple to follow and there is a great variety of recipes.

Such a fun book to read with young children!

 CHICKA CHICKA I LOVE MOM (on-sale: 3/11/25), Mother’s Day shopping hasn’t been easier.

Featuring the same rhythmic charm and delightful illustrations that have captivated CHICKA CHICKA readers for 35+ years and sold close to 30 million copies, these two new alphabet books celebrate the joy of parent-child connections and are the perfect read aloud between a parent and child.

CHICKA CHICKA I LOVE MOM features engaging rhymes, vibrant artwork, and a gift-ready “To/From” section, making them the perfect present, not just for Mother’s Day, but also for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, and baby showers.

Author Bio

Bill Martin, Jr. (1916–2004) has been called “America’s favorite children’s author.” He wrote more than 300 books for children, including the classic texts Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, illustrated by Eric Carle, and Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, illustrated by Lois Ehlert.

John Archambault is a poet, journalist, and storyteller who worked with Bill Martin, Jr. on several projects. He lives in Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California.



Julien Chung has been a professional designer and illustrator for over twenty-five years. He is the illustrator of picture books such as Chicka Chicka Ho Ho Ho and Chicka Chicka Tricka Treat, companions to the bestselling Chicka Chicka Boom Boom; Becoming Blue by Ellen Tarlow; Vrooom, Vrooom! by Mary Lyn Ray; and 365 by Miranda Paul. He has created licensed characters for brands worldwide and works for La Presse newspaper in Montreal, Quebec. He lives in Montreal with his wife and a lovebird named Cookie.

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to facilitate this holiday featured post. Images were also provided.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

5 Valuable Lessons Kids Can Learn by Observing Animals

May 7, 2025 By Leave a Comment

Engaging with the natural environment provides young children with invaluable learning experiences. Nature is filled with countless opportunities for exploration, development, and education. Children possess an innate curiosity, and the outdoors offers a secure environment for them to inquire, investigate, and try new things without the worry of making mistakes. From studying insects to gazing at clouds, being outside creates avenues for fresh educational experiences. By encouraging children to learn in this unique context, nature enhances creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, which are essential components of early childhood education. Here are five important lessons children can get out of observing animals.

1. Nature Teaches Observation Skills

When taking students on zoo field trips, they’ll discover that there’s so much to see and explore. Each tree, stone, and blossom narrates its unique tale. By observing closely, children come to value the beauty found in the tiniest details. This approach highlights the significance of children as engaged learners, allowing their curiosity to be fueled by observation. But first, it’s important to foster those observational skills in children. This can be accomplished by:

● Taking nature walks and prompting the child to observe elements such as the hues of leaves, the melodies of birds, or the feel of tree bark. Encourage them to think deeper by asking open-ended questions like, ‘What do you believe resides in that tree?’

● Establishing a basic outdoor observation station for the child to sketch or document their observations, thereby improving their awareness of environmental changes.

2. Nature Teaches Patience and Perseverance

Nature teaches valuable lessons in patience. The development of plants, the transition of seasons, and the gradual shifts in the sky and weather impart a profound understanding of time and perseverance to children. In the natural world, there is no haste—events occur at their own pace, allowing children to witness and appreciate these processes. Nature is one of those things that no one can rush, no matter how hard they try. Fostering patience and perseverance can be achieved by:

● Inspiring children to cultivate a garden allows them to witness the growth and transformation of their plants, imparting lessons on the importance of patience and the growth process. Trying to force the process, by overwatering, for example, will only result in a dead plant

● Engaging them in straightforward nature-related activities, like constructing a rock tower or assembling a nature collage, fosters creativity and connection with the environment.

3. Nature Fosters Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

The natural environment presents numerous challenges and puzzles that demand critical thinking. As children construct forts from sticks, balance rocks, or climb trees, they are honing essential problem-solving skills vital for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) education. During these activities, children learn to tackle problems, test their ideas, and devise solutions, similar to budding scientists. To delve into the Scientific Method with your young learner, check out this guide and experiments provided by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Problem-solving and critical thinking can be fostered through:

● Organizing a nature scavenger hunt for your child, requiring them to locate specific items such as a feather, a pinecone, and a smooth rock. This activity promotes problem-solving skills and critical thinking as they learn to differentiate certain items from each other.

● Motivating children to construct structures using natural resources like leaves, twigs, or stones, which will aid them in understanding engineering principles. Seeing how the pieces fit together, how they can be constructed to form the most sound structure, and which materials don’t work well together, will teach them the concept of trial and error as well.

4. Nature Enhances Emotional Development

Engaging with nature allows children to comprehend and articulate their feelings. The tranquility of the natural environment offers a soothing influence, while the opportunity to explore fosters self-expression. Additionally, nature aids in cultivating empathy as children learn about the relationships among all living beings. You can encourage emotional development through:

● Encouraging your child to engage in outdoor activities where they feel relaxed and secure. Observe their interactions with the surroundings and inquire about their feelings regarding those experiences.

● Motivating your child to engage in activities that foster mindfulness and emotional awareness, like practicing deep breathing exercises in a serene outdoor environment, or feeding animals at a petting zoo, where it’s important to be calm.

5. Nature Encourages Curiosity and Creativity

The natural world serves as an infinite wellspring of inspiration for imaginative individuals. Whether your child is gathering acorns for an art project, such as a painted pinecone turkey, or utilizing leaves to craft a ‘stained glass’ lantern, nature provides a canvas for children to express their creativity. To nurture curiosity and creativity, encourage imaginative play by inviting your child to act as wild animals or adventurers on a treasure hunt. You can also let your child select a natural item (like a rock, leaf, or flower) and brainstorm various creative applications for it, whether as a prop in their narrative or as a component in a drawing. You might be surprised by what they come up with.

Educators continuously seek methods to transform innate curiosity into educational experiences, and when it comes to animals, the possibilities are truly limitless. Animals can facilitate children’s learning in various areas, including language and numeracy—such as counting a leopard’s spots—as well as fostering empathy, caring skills, and a broader understanding of the world. Teaching children social and emotional skills poses significant challenges, especially in today’s society. Young children tend to be egocentric, concentrating on their immediate surroundings and personal experiences. However, engaging with animals allows them to grasp emotions, cultivate empathy, and learn to care for others. Observing animals in their natural behavior provides children with insights into their eating, playing, fighting, interacting, moving, and communicating, which they can then compare with other animals and humans.

Children can acquire essential life lessons from observing the animal kingdom, fostering a lasting appreciation for nature, and cultivating important traits such as bravery, resilience, and innovation. Integrating these insights into their lives can help them evolve into empathetic, reflective, and accomplished individuals.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News