Ailsa Thomas

Have a reader who is struggling or simply doesn't enjoy reading? Graphic novels may be your gateway books! When our eldest was struggling to read, graphic novels were a low pressure option with out feeling “dumbed down” and as confidence grew, so did the love of reading. In fact, we used to hear “She's a joy to have in class, but she reads too much". Give your slow started a push in to a love of reading! I am an affiliate of Bookshop.org and I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

From cozy historical to edgy modern, there's something on this list for every mystery lover. From England to the US, and across decades, these stories are engaging and worth the read. I am an affiliate of Bookshop.org and I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

A cozy mysteries are stories with a lighthearted tone, an amateur and sometime reluctant sleuth, and no graphic violence, explicit sex, or foul language. Usually they take place in small, close-knit communities and focus on solving puzzles rather than gore. The protagonist is often a charming, quirky, female who restores order to their town and delivers a happy ending. Great for teens and adults alike. Did you know when you shop at Bookshop.com, you are supporting local independent booksellers? I encourage you to check them out! I am an affiliate of Bookshop.org and I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

We travel with our dogs and prefer to visit places they are welcome. Here's a growing list of dog-friendly National Parks and State Parks we've visited. I've noted the NPS sites that also have the BARK Ranger program, which has been expanding, with Parks offering (for a small fee or donation-each park decides) a patch or collar tag for completing their program. Ask at the Welcome Centers for more info. Dog Friendly walks, hikes, and water adventures for your whole family! Currently, 2 standard poodles and a pittie mix who love to be outside.

We have 2 standard poodles, Rogue and Ranger. But over the years, we've had mutts, mixes, and fosters! All with different needs, temperaments, and personal preferences. This is a quick list of the things that have helped us care for our canine kids! The grooming tools we use with spoos since we mostly self-groom, aside from bathing.

Traveling and camping with pets can be a little overwhelming. I've put together a list of helpful. useful and practical accessories that will make your vacation more fun for the whole family… especially your dogs!

You love to read, listen to music and/or watch movies, but the cost adds up! I've curated some of my personal favorites for free books, movies, and music. Many are available via apps through your local library system! Enjoy and happy reading!

Worried about safely hanging and displaying your stained glass art? I've created this quick list of my favorite (and discouraged) display options. From windows, walls, shelves, tabletops, and even your car, I have plenty of ideas for you! When possible, I've included photos of stained glass. Bonus content: links to a quick read covering the basics of caring for your beautiful stained glass. This guide is for stained glass in your home, not outdoors or in a garden. Includes panels and ornaments

A helpful list of tools, materials, and resources for upcycling stained glass scraps into mosaic crafts. I provided sources for the tools I own and use, plus some recommended by other glass artists. Created for the beginner or casual crafter.

The seed catalogues have arrived. It's time to dust off the garden tools and supplies. Spring will be here soon and you need to be ready. I've put together some of my all time favorites and a some new additions to my gardening habit.

A list of our reliable family favorites from our years for gardening. We've kept a garden for nearly 30 years in 3 homes with 2 kids, 4 cats, 6 chickens, 7 dogs, and a horse! But, thankfully, not all at the same time.

Funny, interesting, and odd things to see and do in Kokomo. Located in north central Indiana, about an hour north of Indianapolis, Kokomo is known as the City of Firsts.

One of the most popular National Parks... for good reason! If you have the chance, add it to your to-do list. Our family has been several times and it's alway a discussion - do we see Acadia again or try something new?

3 generations of our family visited DC in 2019 and here are some of our top recs.

Throwing out dried-up flowers after a funeral always makes me sad. It feels a little like losing my loved one all over again. I've put together a list of gifts that don't get thrown away after a few days. I've included some of my stained glass pieces given as memorial gifts.

Suncatchers, paintings, jewelry, accessories, fiber arts, and self-care - I've curated a list of fruit-themed items handmade in the USA by small business owners. Shop small and support your local makers!

My best recommendations for effectivity managing your small business. Resources for planning, selling, organizing, shipping and growing for your art- or craft-based business. I really DO use all of them! Excellent for beginners in the e-commerce journey.

Here are some of my best recommendations for shopping and supporting local Kokomo businesses. Many of these have been around for years and have consistently provided great service!

We just finished a room repainting and would love to share all the tools we found helpful!