I live to eat. I travel for food. But there’s a higher calling out there, and you’re about to discover it (and, subsequently, make some travel plans of your own). Yes. It’s true. There’s a whole WORLD of Chocolate Museums (swoon).

From our very youngest age, books are windows to the world. Perhaps it started for us in a small room with a fireplace, staring out at the beautiful moon...or hopping fences to explore a garden (and enjoy a meal). Then came funky Suessian lands, perhaps a wardrobe, flying to a pirate-infested island, or leaving the coziest home ever to go on an adventure. In our family, the entire Odyssey was narrated to our daughter while swimming every day in our lake (started when she was 4, this lasted years, seemingly as long as his journey. But I digress). 

I have such gorgeous art to share with you today! I recently discovered an extraordinary artist, Jessica Laughlin. She wrote and illustrated a beautiful journal (published by Quarto) that we reviewed, entitled The 50 States Bucket List: The Ultimate Journal for a Journey Across America. 

I've got the CUTEST book to share with you and your small ones today, apropos as it is Earth Day. It will inspire and educate kids and their grownups about how to compost, garden, and reap the rewards of gardening. The Soil in Jackie's Garden, written by Peggy Thomas with art by Neely Daggett, is fun, beautiful, and inspiring. 

If you could only read one book in your lifetime, THIS is the one. After Everything, written by global educator, poet, writer, and coach Monna McDiarmid, is a gift. 

This book is EVERYTHING. 

McDiarmid has given us a novel that is beautiful, important, and life-changing. 

The field of education is in turmoil these days, for a variety of reasons. Countless families are searching for additional ways to provide the best education possible for their kids.

But where to start?

How do you know what to look for, whom to trust, and educational outcomes that prioritize your kid and their educational journey?

Color, beauty, art...what more can we ask for in our homes—and lives? One more thing: 

Make it big! 

I recently discovered Big Wall Décor, a fantastic company focused on bringing affordable large-scale art to everyone. Read our interview with founder Nick Ford to get inspired!