Breaching Colorism With My Little Girl

Photo credit: Carolina Adame

I’m so excited to share one of my personal essays about colorism, intergenerational pain and self love. Thank you New York Times for giving these issues a forum!

Learning Spanish at Chiqui Social

A family exploring Chiqui Social’s kitchen space. Photo Credit: Chiqui Social

Chiqui Social is taking language learning to another level. Created by Lizet Alvarez, Chiqui is an immersion studio that teaches Spanish in a fun and purposeful way. Instructors spread the joy of speaking Spanish to youngsters through a mixture of progressive and traditional teaching methods, with a heavy dose of lightheartedness.

Chiqui isn’t just for kids though. Parents are also welcome at Chiqui. The social hub has several offerings for grownups including workshops, family happy hours and mindful mommy and me classes.

Situated in Culver City, the studio is a calm home-like oasis, beautifully appointed with artisanal wares. Outfitted with a sunny cheerful kitchen, an outdoor space and a thoughtfully curated store; there is a little something for everyone at Chiqui.

If you want your children to learn Spanish and are looking for an inviting community, Chiqui is the place!

Lizet Alvarez, owner of Chiqui Social. Photo credit: Chiqui Social

Ready for play time in the studio space. Photo credit: Chiqui Social

Outdoor fun in Chiqui’s backyard space. Photo credit: Chiqui Social

B.Yellowtail x Land of Nod Capsule Collection

An art print part of the B.Yellowtail x Land of Nod collection. The design was created by Wakeah Jhane (Comanche/Blackfeet/Kiowa).  (Credit: B.Yellowtail)

    Have you heard about the B.Yellowtail and Land of Nod collaboration?  One of our favorite designers has just launched a gorgeous collection with the retailing powerhouse.  The entire collection is based on original design pieces handcrafted by Native artisans who are members of the B.Yellowtail Collective.  From art to blankets, and everything in between, the collection is full of color and covet worthy design.  Now, children everywhere can discover the beauty of authentic indigenous culture and creativity.  What a wonderful way to incorporate Native elements into your favorite little person’s space!

Celia, Frida and La Catrina - A Lil’ Libros Library

Select titles from the Lil' Libros library.  (Photo Credit: Hermosa Journal)

   We have been in love with the Lil’ Libros creations since 2014.  The company produces unique bilingual children’s books, games and posters.  Created by life long friends, Patty Rodriguez and Ariana Stein, all the books in the Lil’ Libros collection feature luxurious colors, playful illustrations and fun wording.

Lil' Libros books make wonderful birthday gifts.  (Hermosa Journal).

   Rodriguez and Stein started the company after they each began having children and realized that something was missing from the board book market - culturally relevant bilingual books they loved.  Both of the Lil’ Libros founders are first generation Americans (with parents hailing from Mexico) committed to helping children become bilingual.  In the Spring of 2017, these passionate dual language advocates added another gem to their treasure trove of children’s titles: The Life of/La Vida de Celia.  This title comfortably falls right in line with the company’s other fabulous books we can’t get enough of like Frida, Loteria, and Un Elefante.

Lil' Libros as party favors.  (Hermosa Journal)

   Interested in getting their newest gem?  The Lil’ Libros team is now taking pre-orders for their 10th title, La Catrina.  If you are looking for ways to expose the little ones in your life to the beauty of reading in English and Spanish, a Lil’ Libros gift is a perfect solution.

Shake, Rattle & Roll - Knotwork LA Rattles

Credit: Knotwork LA

   Searching for a heirloom quality gift for that special little person in your life?  Look no further than the rattles by Knotwork LA.  These mini works of art are lovingly handmade in Los Angeles by Linda Hsiao and Kagan Taylor.  Little ones will surely enjoy these rattles, and when they have outgrown them, we recommend saving them for the next generation.  Rattle on!

Credit: Knotwork LA