Thursday, July 31, 2025

Make Your #BackToSchool Customized!

I love anything customized. And I mean anything. I have so many keepsakes, and I cherish them! And Back To School time is a great time to get something customized for your child, so they can stand out at school and feel amazing!
At Isola Bella Boutique, they are a family-run business creating personalized clothing and accessories with a preppy, trendy twist. Inspired by their own kids and a love for creativity, they take pride in crafting unique designs that stand out. From custom sweatshirts to gift-worthy fanny packs, each item is made with love in their Long Island workshop. I love the Back To School headband! So cute! And who doesn't want a bag with their name and personality on it?
A personalized Photo Blanket from CanvasDiscount.com is a great fit for students -  A cozy dorm or reading nook is essential, which feels like a hug from home. For parents - A warm workday comfort or a memory-preserving throw for home or office. You can print favorite family photos, pets, or vacation moments. Plus, it is budget-friendly for under $40. We got Callan's enlistment photo on one, and I am going to cherish it for the months he is away.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

Still Celebrating #Summer2025

While everyone is gearing up for Back To School, we are still celebrating summer here! But these items could be two-fold. Something for Mom and Dad and self-care, while enjoying the last few days before the crazy school season gets into full swing!
There’s a new contender for drink of the summer, and it’s not a hard seltzer or a craft cocktail. Meet Hello Soju Sparkling Soju, a refreshingly bright, sparkling soju that’s perfect for backyard BBQs, poolside hangs, beach trips, picnics, and potlucks (or relaxing at home after a busy day!). Unlike overly sweet RTDs, Hello Soju is clean, crisp, and bubbly with real fruit flavors like Lychee, Lemon Yuzu, Peach, Green Grape, and Asian Pear. Plus, it's gluten-free, made with natural juice, and rings in at 7% ABV, just the right buzz without the hangover. Soju is the #2 most-consumed spirit in the world. Made with rice, gluten-free, and no fake stuff. All-natural fruit juices. From the juicy pop of Lychee to the tang of Asian Pear, it’s a trip to Seoul in a can.
Baby Foot is a great find for college-bound students and parents heading back to the office who could use a little self-care boost. Baby Foot is a best-selling at-home foot peel that removes layers of dead skin to reveal soft, smooth feet. It's an easy, effective way to reset and recharge after long days on your feet. With over 30,000 glowing reviews on Amazon and a strong following on social media, it's a cult-favorite in personal care.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Snack Supplies For #BackToSchool

I always try to be one step ahead, and stocking up on things I know will be needed for school lunches and after-school snacks is a must! Here are some things to help stock that pile:
The Summer Snack Bundle from GoodSAM Foods isn’t just a snack pack. It’s a gentle reminder to take care of yourself, wherever and whenever you can. Thoughtfully curated for summer’s real moments: road trips, post-swim hunger, or quiet breaks under a tree. The Summer Snackable Bundle is full of fun, feel-good snacks made with simple ingredients and a big heart. It is an amazing start to your Back To School snack supplies as well! Inside, you’ll find a craveable mix of crispy fruit chips and buttery macadamias. Easy to pack, easy to love, and made to support both you and Mother Earth. No added junk. Just good food from regenerative farms and direct trade partners who care as much as you do. What’s Inside: Pineapple Slices,  Banana Chips,  Sweet Plantain Chips,  Pineapple Chips,  Pineapple Chili Lime Chips, and  Salted Macadamias.
National S’mores Day is coming up on August 10th (right before Callan goes back to school!), and while we all love the classic gooey-goodness of graham, marshmallow, and chocolate, this year, up the bar - literally. Alter Eco makes s’mores better in every way, starting with what matters most: the chocolate. Their rich, melt-in-your-mouth bars are organic, fair trade, and climate neutral, so you can roast, stack, and snack with a little less guilt and a lot more flavor. With bold, crave-worthy options like Brown Butter, Burnt Caramel, and Classic Blackout, Alter Eco turns your backyard bonfire into an eco-conscious (and seriously elevated) indulgence. Plus, they come wrapped in compostable packaging that’s just as thoughtful as what’s inside.
Modballs are a healthier alternative to sugar-laden protein bars. They come in two flavors: Almond Coconut Chocolate and Peanut Butter Chocolate. These poppable snacks feature the most nutrient-dense food on Earth. They are available for purchase on Amazon and the brand's site. The products are made in the USA and contain zero preservatives or artificial ingredients. Each ball is 100 calories and provides energy through a carefully crafted blend of clean carbs, healthy fats, and plant proteins. Each ModBall delivers over 75 different fruits, veggies, seeds, nuts, and chocolate.
For the environmentally and health-conscious parent, check out PlantSwitch, the global leader in plant-based compostable plastic that does no harm to our bodies or the environment, which has just dropped its Premium Napkin Rolls and Birthday Napkin Rolls for children’s celebrations. PlantSwitch plant-based plastic utensils look, feel, bend, and perform identically to traditional plastic, without any harmful microplastics.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Monday, July 28, 2025

Bag Options For #BackToSchool

This Back To School season, it's all about the bags. Some people use it as a fashion statement, while others go for functionality. Here are a few options that we feel offer both:
Gear up with CALPAK essentials that keep you and your kids organized, stylish, and ready to take on the school year - from daily commutes to weekend adventures. And just in time for Back To School, CALPAK just launched their brand new Kids Collection (like this Medium Backpack)  - designed to keep little ones organized, confident, and excited for every journey, whether it’s the classroom or a weekend adventure. CALPAK is a modern lifestyle brand celebrated for its stylish and functional travel gear and accessories. With an emphasis on blending fashion with practicality, CALPAK offers a diverse range of products, including luggage, backpacks, and travel essentials, all crafted to make your journey effortless and enjoyable. Their bags are designed to be your most beloved travel companions, helping you pack efficiently while keeping your belongings secure from departure to arrival.
The Backcountry Destination 20L Backpack is perfect for older high school or college students. It’s made with a durable, recycled ripstop fabric that is naturally water-resistant, keeping pack contents dry. It has a dedicated laptop sleeve that can fit devices up to 16 inches, which is also compatible with a hydration system, making the pack versatile for class and outdoor adventures. The contoured shoulder straps and back panel offer breathable comfort, and there are several colors available to pick from right now. Callan and Jason argued over who would get this backpack, and of course, as our rising Senior and Future Soldier, Callan won! He can use this for all his life's adventures, for high school and beyond!

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Friday, July 25, 2025

Food & Drink Finds For #BackToSchool

Back To School is approaching faster than some of us would like. It is time to think about breakfasts in the morning for a good start, school lunches, and meals and snacks in the evening! Here are a few things to get us all going:

PACHA’s Sprouted Buckwheat Bread and new Sourdough Tortillas are made with just two ingredients (sprouted buckwheat and sea salt), making them gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and soy-free. PACHA is a favorite among wellness gurus, and their products boast nearly 4,000 five-star reviews from fans who have finally found a way to feel good about eating bread again.
Tortillas: two-ingredient Sourdough Buckwheat Tortillas - Fermented with wild yeast, these tortillas offer gut-friendly benefits while delivering incredible softness and pliability without fillers, gums, or preservatives. Callan has learned to use these for quesadillas, and really enjoys them. Sprouted Sourdough Buckwheat Bread - Comes in flavors like Multi-Seed, Rye, and Cinnamon Raisin (which has become a new fave of mine!).
Lotus Foods took everything gross about 2000s ramen and left it behind. Their noodles and rice bowls are made with heirloom rice, never fried, and come in actual flavors you’ll recognize like Thai Red Curry. And they cook in 90 seconds. Gluten-free, lower sodium, no MSG!
Perfect for quick after-school munches - The Heat & Eat Rice Pouches are ready in 90 seconds, come in flavors like white rice and brown rice, and are free of additives and allergens.
Rice Ramen Soup Cups are the modern upgrade to instant noodles: naturally gluten-free, lower in sodium, and actually satisfying. Perfect for a school lunch, or office lunch for moms and dads, too!
Ideal for college dorms - Rice Ramen Cakes make it easy to DIY a healthy dinner in 4 minutes with whatever’s in the fridge - no kitchen skills required. This is also something we are going to keep in our back pocket for sending care packages to Callan when he is at Basic Training!
With Four Sigmatic, you don’t have to sacrifice your coffee routine when you’re traveling or on those busy school mornings. Their instant mushroom coffees and lattes, like the Focus Instant Coffee Latte and Focus Matcha Latte, are made for quick and convenient preparation on the go. Just add hot water for a functional, flavorful cup.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

MALK Organics For #BackToSchool

Back-to-school is such a busy season, and it's hard enough as it is to stay healthy and make good choices. But MALK Oranics has you covered. Made with the fewest and cleanest ingredients on the market, such as organic almonds, filtered water, and sea salt, MALK is a nutritious, school-lunch-friendly staple for parents seeking to simplify their family’s routine. It’s a great dairy-free alternative for cereal, lunchboxes, or after-school smoothies.
MALK is available in kid-approved varieties like Vanilla Almond, Original Oat, Coconut, Soy, and creamy Cashew Milk, plus creamers for coffee! MALK is a fridge essential for busy families prioritizing clean, organic choices.

Check it all out at MALK Organics on Facebook, as well as MALK Organics on Instagram.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Monday, July 21, 2025

#BackToSchool For Jurassic World Lovers

With Jurassic World: Rebirth stomping into theaters and Walking with Dinosaurs roaring back to life on PBS this summer, dinosaurs are everywhere - on screens, in dreams, and definitely in your kids’ imaginations. What better time to channel their prehistoric passion into something both educational and wildly entertaining?

Practice Writing with Dinosaurs! edited by Terry Dactall
Discover the joy of practicing print and cursive handwriting with this fun, informative, and fact-based dinosaur activity book for kids ages 4 to 6! So that's how you spell Parasaurolophus! Kids ages 4 to 6 will love practicing print and cursive handwriting with their favorite prehistoric dinos in this one-of-a-kind workbook that blends color-it-yourself illustrations and fascinating trivia and facts about dinosaurs with handwriting practice pages containing each dinosaur name spelled out and ready to trace. Once that budding paleontologist has mastered the dinosaur name in printed letters, they can move on to practice the same names in cursive, learning to perfect drawing names from Ankylosaurus and Brachiosaurus to Quaesitosaurus and Zephyrosaurus.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Friday, July 18, 2025

Sun Bum's New Signature Line #Summer2025

While it is summer in Florida, it IS Florida, so we always need sunscreen. In fact, I am a big promoter of sunscreen all the time, even in the winter. We are originally from the Midwest, and I would get sunburned at all times of the year.
Sun Bum's mineral-based Signature sunscreen offers the very best broad-spectrum protection for those of us who work and play hard in the sun. Lasting sun protection. It won't migrate, make your hands slippery, or come off during your rigorous activities in the water, wind, or blazing hot sun. Comes in SPF 30 or 50 and tinted or clear.
And there is a lip balm as well. Lord knows I love my lip balm! And this all came packaged so cute! If you know me, you know packaging and presentation are a big deal, and this was spot on! Check out the entire line at Sun Bum online, as well as Sun Bum on Facebook, and Sun Bum on Instagram!

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Thursday, July 17, 2025

Easy Snacks For #BackToSchool

I am all about easy or on-the-go snacks, all the time, but especially for a busy back-to-school season! And these options are great:
With the irresistible taste that everyone loves, HORMEL Pepperoni Stix are a family-friendly snack popping with pepperoni. A good source of protein with 5 grams per stick, they make great lunch box snacks or convenient, on-the-go snacks for your commute. HORMEL Pepperoni Stix are individually wrapped, come in packs of 6, and do not require refrigeration until opened. They are also naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly.
To create the unique salty-sweet flavor in the Teriyaki beef jerky, Old Trapper marinates lean beef strips in soy sauce and apple cider vinegar, seasons the cuts with their own mix of spices, then smokes them with real wood until they’re tender, juicy, and delicious.
Old Trapper's Old Fashioned is called that for a reason. For 55 years, they have used lean cuts of real beef flavored with natural wood smoke to create savory and tender beef jerky! You deserve the best, eat Old Trapper.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Crumps Naturals

At Crumps’ Naturals, they believe that feeding your pup should be as simple and pure as their love for you. That’s why, since 2006, the Crump family has been dedicated to making all-natural dog treats from purposeful ingredients. They are on a mission to support your pup’s overall health and wellness by nourishing the whole dog – mind, body, and soul. We got to try some of the Sweet Potato Treats from Crumps Naturals.
Sweet Potato Chews - One of the most popular treats, they slice fresh North American-grown sweet potatoes and slow bake them. In addition to their terrific flavor, these vegan dog treats have the added benefit of being rich in vitamins, minerals, and beta-carotene. A great option for dogs with allergies or food sensitivities. Made with just one ingredient. These have become a favorite of Glory's!
Sweet Potato Fries - For pet parents looking for a fun snack, great for their small dog or puppy, the sweet potato fries are the best dog treats for them. These treats are fully vegetarian, offering dogs with meat allergies a treat that they will absolutely love.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

End of Summer #Vacation2025 Must-Haves

With summer in full swing still, everyone is eager to get outside, and sun protection is essential for all outdoor activities. Nammu Hats offer comfortable, all-day UPF 50+ protection that’s perfect for pool days, beach trips, and backyard fun.
Unlike sunscreen that needs constant reapplication and can wash off, Nammu Hats provide reliable, water-friendly sun defense so families can stay outdoors longer, safe from harmful UV rays. They’re not only practical but also cool-looking, affordable, and come in a variety of styles, so everyone can find a favorite. Nammu also has some other great sun-protective apparel!
The Nammu UV Multi Wrap is your go-to solution for stylish sun protection while enjoying water activities. Crafted with UPF fabric, this versatile swim wrap is designed to shield your body from harmful UV rays, whether you’re swimming, lounging by the pool, or strolling on the beach. Designed with both fashion and functionality in mind, the Nammu UV Multi Wrap can be worn in countless ways. Its unique design includes holes for your arms, providing extra comfort and ensuring a perfect fit every time. Plus, its one-size-fits-most feature makes it accessible to everyone. Not limited to water use, this multi-functional wrap can also be used on land. You can sit on it at the beach for added comfort, or even wrap it around your head as an alternative to your Nammu hat.
A common vacation problem every family faces is what to do with the wet stuff? Neco Bags’ Wet Bags are stylish, reusable pouches that make packing for summer road trips, cruises, and campgrounds a whole lot easier. Whether it’s soggy swimsuits, muddy socks, or stinky camping clothes, these bags keep moisture contained without single-use plastic. Bonus: they’re machine washable and made with a recycled plastic lining - 12 plastic bottles used in every yard!
Stio's Vallis collection with PeakVale material is the new go-to fabric for everyday life. A soft, natural feel and four-way stretch create comfort that goes all day, all while keeping its shape and resisting creases and wrinkles. A zippered back pocket keeps essentials secure, and the PFAS-free WR finish sheds light rain during impromptu hikes. Available in pants, skirts, and shorts.
Additionally, the Stio Water Bottle Sling is a must-have accessory for any traveler. It is a slim, light, and multifunctional bottle holder that makes it easy to carry water and small essentials out on the trail or roaming through town.
The Mozy Lower-Body Thermal Wrap is perfect for attending sporting games on the sidelines, in the bleachers, and at the outdoor stadium with those school sporting events coming up soon! Also a nice fit for the whole family for your scheduled and last-minute road trips to enjoy at your outdoor adventures, camping outings, bonfires, coastal and mountain getaways for cooler evenings, and is also a great solution for bringing on a flight or cruise. The Mozy Lower-Body Thermal Wrap keeps you warm as it’s wearable, weatherproof, and wraps around your waist so you are hands-free. Simply wrap and fasten the Mozy thermal wrap to keep you 500% warmer than a stadium blanket using the laws of heat and thermodynamics. It is also flame-resistant and flame-retardant. 

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Monday, July 14, 2025

Packing With Tripped Travel Gear For #Vacation2025

Summer adventures are still happening, and those memories are sure to make an impression! Make the packing easier with Tripped Travel Gear. Whether you are road-tripping to the mountains, sailing into sunset on a cruise (ours can't come soon enough!), or relaxing at a resort escape, the travel gear from Tripped keeps the travel chaos in check and the summer vibes high.
Carry-On Compression Packing Cubes and Checked Bag Compression Cube Set – The key to stress-free summer getaways. Ideal for airports, but also amazing just for general packing, whether flying or not!
Toiletry Bag Set – Leak-proof, TSA-ready, and with a handy hook for hanging in RV park showers or in your cruise cabin bathroom. Also, amazing for summer camps!
Travel Pouch – A glovebox MVP. Use it to stash chargers, snacks, passports, or anything you want quick access to on the road or at your seat. And, side note - when not traveling, this is amazing to toss in a work bag for daily essentials!
Daypack – Lightweight, foldable, and built for movement. Ideal for hikes, day trips, or tossing in a few extras for your four-legged friends. I love this and can't wait to use it for our excursions on our upcoming cruise!

Everything is lightweight, adventure-tested, and designed to help travelers spend less time digging through their bag and more time enjoying the trip.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Saturday, July 12, 2025

Mid-Summer Food & Drink Finds #Summer2025

Summer is still in full swing, and there are still cookouts, hangouts, and chillouts happening! Check out these great food and drink finds:
Rooted Living makes plant-based, refined-ingredient-free snacks that are perfect for summer adventures - whether it's a beach picnic or a hiking trip. Plus, these snacks come in fully compostable packaging, so they’re as kind to the planet as they are delicious. We got the Sunbutter Granola - Sweet, salty, and simply delicious granola that is nut-free!
Fun in the sun can mean overheating and dehydration, but it doesn't have to. Whether you're getting in a workout, having a boat day, a round on the green, or just playing with the kids, you can elevate your hydration routine with Lychee Hydration, a delicious drink that combines essential electrolytes to keep you hydrated and energized. Ideal for any activity level, from marathon gaming to marathon running, Hydration delivers pure, clean refreshment with a delightful, sugar-free taste. It's not caffeinated, so you can enjoy it all day long. Everstrong was founded by elite athletes Shelly Cannon and Tony Carlino, both of whom have overcome serious illnesses to now work to help others reach their goals and live their passions.
Tamarind Heads BBQ Sauce is a unique BBQ sauce that won the prestigious 2024 SoFi Gold Award as Best BBQ Sauce, beating every major brand in a blind taste test. What makes it perfect for summer grilling: Unlike traditional tomato-based sauces, Tamarind Heads is built on pure tamarind - a superfood that naturally tenderizes meat while delivering complex sweet-tart-smoky flavors. It's vegan, gluten-free, preservative-free, with just 6 clean ingredients, making it ideal for health-conscious gatherings. The sauce caramelizes beautifully on ribs, elevates grilled vegetables, and even works in summer cocktails (think tamarind micheladas). McCormick named tamarind their 2024 Flavor of the Year, making this the trending ingredient for summer entertaining.

~Hayley

 Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Friday, July 11, 2025

#Summer2025 Reading and Road Trips #Vacation2025

We love reading - probably why we started #BookTober, which we are so excited about this year! But that is a bit a ways away. There is still a lot of Summer to be had! And there are those Summer family road trips! What better time to spend with a book! Here are some great reads - just to enjoy or to have in your arsenal for boredom busters on long car rides!
Isle of Ever - Bestselling and beloved author Jen Calonita delivers the first in a brand new series featuring a girl who will inherit a mysterious fortune if she can break a centuries-old curse! Days after her twelfth birthday, Everly “Benny” Benedict learns she’s the heir to a fortune! But to collect the inheritance, she first has to play - and win - a game. Following clues that her ancestor left, Benny must locate a small island that vanished long ago, according to legend. She has only two weeks to play the game and find the island. If she’s successful, she’ll break a two-hundred-year-old curse. If she fails, the fortune will be forfeited. And if she’s not careful, she’ll cross paths with someone else who is after the island’s secrets, and who will stop at nothing to get them. Because, as it turns out, there’s far more than a fortune at stake.
The Last Great Heir - The female heirs of two opposing families must duel to rule the land for the next generation in this dazzling fantasy adventure debut! Merriment Feast's life is one constant party, complete with dazzling gowns and delicious pastries. Well, except for her aunt's physically grueling training. Merri believes it's her responsibility to protect her family's traditions and the power they've held for generations. Rue Famine knows that only Feasts benefit from Feast rule. As the heir of House Famine, she spends her days studying potion-making in an enormous, dusty library and learning how to use her magic to help others. Custom dictates that the heirs of Feast and Famine must duel on their thirteenth birthday. Only one family can rule the land of Fauret, and Merri and Rue have been raised as rivals. But as the contest draws near and dangers escalate, their true enemy may be a shared one.
Curse Of The Night Witch - From #BookTok phenomenon and New York Times bestselling author of the YA fantasy novel, Lightlark (Alex Aster), this fast-paced middle grade series starter is steeped in Colombian mythology and full of adventure. Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson, Curse of the Night Witch is filled with fantasy, action, adventure, and an unforgettable trio of friends. On Emblem Island, all are born knowing their fate. Their lifelines show the course of their life, and an emblem dictates how they will spend it. Tor Luna was born with a leadership emblem, just like his mother. But he hates his mark and is determined to choose a different path for himself. So, on the annual New Year's Eve celebration, where Emblemites throw their wishes into a bonfire in the hopes of having them granted, Tor wishes for a different power. The next morning, Tor wakes up to discover a new marking on his skin…the symbol of a curse that has shortened his lifeline, giving him only a week before an untimely death. There is only one way to break the curse, and it requires a trip to the notorious Night Witch. With only his village's terrifying, ancient stories as a guide, and his two friends Engle and Melda by his side, Tor must travel across unpredictable Emblem Island, filled with wicked creatures he only knows through myths, in a race against his dwindling lifeline.
Finders Keepers - A scavenger hunt takes a sinister turn in the third novel in the Eek! series, tales to scare you silly! In the small town of Farlow, mysterious advertisements appear for a summer scavenger hunt. Twelve-year-old Maggie and her friends can't wait. They have their team, and more than bragging rights, they want that huge cash prize. On the big day, a strange man welcomes everybody to the game. The first items are ridiculously easy ("An egg? Seriously?"). But they quickly grow more difficult. When getting one of the items requires an actual crime - breaking into the school after dark - Maggie loses one of her teammates. But the others manage to steal Mr. Kramer's favorite mug. A bone from the cemetery seems like it's as dark as the game can get, but when they're asked to bring back a human head, nobody wants to play anymore. But it's too late to quit.
The Changelings - Three-time Newbery Honor-winning author Christina Soontornvat's debut novel, now with fresh new cover art for a new generation of readers! All Izzy wants is for something interesting to happen in their sleepy little town. But her wish becomes all too real when a mysterious song floats through the woods and lures her little sister, Hen, into the forest, where she vanishes. A frantic search leads to a strange hole in the ground that Izzy enters. But on the other side, she discovers that the hole was not a hole, this place is not Earth, and Hen is not lost. She’s been stolen away to the land of Faerie, and it’s up to Izzy to bring her home. But inside Faerie, trouble is brewing, and Izzy is in way over her head. A ragtag group of outlaw Changelings offer to help, and she must decide whether a boulder that comes to life, a girl who looks like a ghost, and a boy who is also a stag can help her save Hen before it’s too late.
Camping Activities For Kids - Going on a camping trip? Encourage kids to explore like a scientist with an illustrated camping activity guide for ages 8 to 12. Attention campers! Are you ready to think like a scientist and adventure like an explorer? This fun and interactive guide shows kids how to camp with an active mind for learning. They’ll discover all the different items you need to go camping, the steps to building an awesome campsite, and how to make the most of exploring nature through 20 lessons and 20 activities to try on the trails!
Ocean Activities For Kids - Inspire kids to explore like a scientist with an illustrated ocean activity guide for ages 8 to 12. Calling all ocean lovers: Are you ready to think like a scientist and adventure like an explorer? This fun and interactive guide for kids shows you how to discover the seas with an active mind for learning. Travel down into the depths with 20 lessons and 20 activities that show you how different parts of the ocean work together, and explore all the unbelievable things the ocean does, such as moving with the moon, changing the shape of shorelines, and providing a home to millions of amazing creatures!
Awesome Road Trip Activities For Kids - Bust backseat boredom with fun games, puzzles, and journal prompts for kids ages 8 to 12. Start having a blast the moment you pull out of the driveway with Awesome Road Trip Activities for Kids. You'll find oodles of travel-themed fun for hours of entertainment on long road trips. With 9 different types of activities and over 100 individual puzzles, games, and prompts, this book turns "Are we there yet?" into "Aww, we're there already?"

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Fun Finds For #MomsDadsGrads2026

As the season comes into full swing, with Mother's Day right around the corner, and Graduations happening all over, and Dad to celebrate...