Books, Children's Book Review, wellness

Children’s Book Review- Captain Fantastic and the Chocolate Planet

In the newest release in the series by author Tommy Balaam, Captain Fantastic and his four-legged friend visit a planet made of CHOCOLATE and CONFECTIONS! What kiddo doesn’t dream of living in a world made of candies and treats!? The super duo think they have landed on the best planet in the universe. They explore from Cookie Dough Cove to Mount Honeycomb underneath marshmallow clouds. It seems to be a dream come true!

Books, Children's Book Review, travel, wellness

Empowering Reads for Kids- San Diego Living

Change in life can be unavoidable, but change can be difficult for little ones. From moving to a new home, a new school, welcoming a new sibling, children may need extra support coping with some of these big life transitions. Two new #EmpoweringReads can help your kids deal with change and learn to embrace new… Continue reading Empowering Reads for Kids- San Diego Living

Books, Military Community, Podcast, wellness

Claire Cain- Romance Novelist and Military Spouse

Looking for a perfect bookclub pick or beach read? Love feel good, romance novels? Claire Cain has your covered. The military spouse, former university professor turned novelist, has authored and published 12 Romance books since 2018. Her books are filled with life experience and joy.

Books, Create, Military Community, Podcast, The Arts, Theatre Arts, wellness

Sharifa Johnson Spreads Joy with Books ‘n Bops

Recently on Hodge Podge Podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Sharifa Johnson, the brilliant mind behind Books N' Bops- an adorable children's literature program that incorporates dancing and books! Sharifa is a joy and masterfully creates a fun, inspirational environment for children to embrace the importance of learning in a super fun way.

Lifestyle, Writing, Podcasting, Military Life, Inspirtation, North Carolina, Military Community, wellness

MilspouseFest Pivots- Brings Spouses Together Virtually

MilspouseFest is a fabulous organization that supports military spouses worldwide. During Covid, the folks at MilspouseFest learned to pivot, and are now bringing fun, inspiration and support virtually to spouses. Want to join in all the fun and win some free swag? Register for an online event HERE!

Books, Lifestyle, Writing, Podcasting, Military Life, Inspirtation, North Carolina, Military Community, travel, wellness

Ashley Bugge- Gold Star Spouse Debuts Memoir and Children’s Book

Listen to my conversation with Ashley Bugge on Hodge Podge Podcast HERE! Mother. Military Widow. Explorer. Speaker. Award-Winning Author. Ashley Bugge is an amazing human. In the past two years, she has risen from unimaginable challenges after losing her Naval Officer husband, the late Captain Brian J. Bugge, in a tragic deep diving accident while she was pregnant with the couple’s third child. Ashley said during our conversation on Hodge Podge Podcast that she is still healing. This resonated with me. And this is why: Ashley has refused to lie in grief. She poignantly put her grief into rich experiences and growth. All the while, acknowledging she is not okay. She is a real person. A lover of life. A fighter. A survivor. With such beautiful grace, she has utilized personal stories of turning tragedy into triumph to offer a unique perspective into what it means to overcome adversity and flourish from it.

Books, wellness

Children’s Book Review: The Choice by Tools of the Heart

We each have an inner voice that speaks to us. There is a hunch, a feeling in our gut-- upon every new situation or encounter. This inner feeling and voice helps us stay true to ourselves in every situation. Learning to listen to the voice inside of us is very important. In The Choice by Tools of the Heart, Colin the strong oak tree is approached by Grubber the raccoon. Grubber is not very nice nor is he a very good listener. Colin becomes a bit suspicious of the new forest acquaintance who has come to visit. Colin's inner voice questions Grubber's true intentions.

Books, Children's Book Review, wellness

Tools of the Heart Book Series

About the Author: Patrick Arguin is an educator and proud co-creator of Tools of the Heart, where he combines three passions; illustrating, communicating and helping little ones blossom into their own! Originally developed in French with the help of two heart-minded collaborators, later to be translated in English, Tools of the Heart aims to help young children learn… Continue reading Tools of the Heart Book Series

Books, wellness

Children’s Book Review- Colin and Fluffy Become Friends by Tools of the Heart

One of the greatest treasures of life is learning to love and appreciate who we are. Once we learn to let others into our hearts through trust and overcoming our fears and insecurities, we can grow wonderful friendships.