by Donna Lewis Stiles | Dec 6, 2025 | Books, Holidays, Journals, Lifestyle
The Gift of Reading: Why Books and Journals Make Perfect Holiday Presents
The holidays are a magical time for children—filled with twinkling lights, warm gatherings, and the joy of giving and receiving. As parents, grandparents, and educators, we have a wonderful opportunity to make this season even more meaningful by nurturing a love of reading and writing in the young people we care about.
Why Reading Matters During the Holidays – While the holiday season brings excitement and celebration, it also offers something precious: time. School breaks provide the perfect opportunity for children to dive into books without the pressure of homework deadlines or early morning alarms. This unstructured reading time allows kids to explore stories at their own pace, discover new interests, and develop a genuine love for literature.
Reading during the holidays also creates cozy family traditions. Imagine curling up together by the fireplace with hot cocoa and a good book or establishing a nightly story time ritual during winter break. These moments become cherished memories that children carry with them long into adulthood.
Studies consistently show that children who read during school breaks maintain their literacy skills and often return to school with improved comprehension and vocabulary. The “summer slide” happens during winter break too, but regular reading keeps young minds engaged and growing even when school is out.
The Power of a Writing Journal for Kids – While reading introduces children to new worlds, writing enables them to create their own. A kids’ writing journal is more than just blank pages—it’s a safe space for imagination, self-expression, and creativity to flourish.
Writing journals helps children:
- Process their emotions and experiences in a healthy, constructive way
- Build confidence as they see their ideas take shape on paper
- Develop critical thinking skills through reflection and storytelling
- Improve their writing mechanics naturally through regular practice
- Preserve memories from childhood that they’ll treasure as they grow older
The holiday season is particularly rich with writing opportunities. Children can document holiday traditions, write letters to loved ones, create their own stories featuring winter adventures, or reflect on gratitude and the year behind them. Writing in journal becomes a companion through the season and beyond.
Books: The Gift That Keeps Giving
In a world of toys that break and gadgets that quickly become outdated, books remain timeless. A carefully chosen book shows thoughtfulness—it says you see the child’s interests and want to nurture their curiosity.
Books offer so much more than entertainment.
- They build empathy by allowing children to experience life through different perspectives
- Expand vocabulary and language skills naturally
- Spark imagination and creativity
- Provide comfort and companionship
- Create opportunities for meaningful conversations between children and adults
When you give a child a book, you’re not just giving them a story; you’re giving them adventure, knowledge, friendship, and possibility.
Finding Perfect Books – Looking for quality books for young readers in your life? My collection of children’s books on Amazon offers stories designed to inspire, entertain, and encourage a love of reading. Each book is crafted with care to engage young minds and spark meaningful conversations.
Your Free Kids’ Writing Journal Download – To help you encourage the young writers in your life, I’m offering a free downloadable kids’ writing journal! This specially designed journal includes creative prompts, drawing spaces, and structured pages that make writing fun and accessible for children at various skill levels.
This journal is perfect for:
Holiday break activities
Quiet time alternatives to screen time
Road trip entertainment
Documenting holiday memories
Daily writing practice
Ready to inspire the young readers in your life? Check out my children’s books on Amazon and download your free kids’ writing journal today!
by Donna Lewis Stiles | Dec 3, 2025 | Holidays
Don’t Open Until Christmas
A Christmas Box began with a single ornament, a tiny bear on a swing with “Baby’s First Christmas” painted in gold script. For a young mom, buying her baby’s first ornament was a moment of pure happiness, a simple act filled with love and the promise of memories yet to come. That ornament became the first chapter in a tradition that would span decades.
Every year after, another ornament was added. Each one carefully chosen to represent something special about that year. A bicycle for the summer when training wheels finally came off. A ballerina for a first recital. Piano keys for the year Beethoven was mastered. A Disney castle from a once-in-a-lifetime family vacation. “Years of ornaments, one after another, each one selected by a mother building a tradition, a childhood documented in love, captured in each carefully chosen piece.”
These weren’t just decorations. They were tangible proof that someone paid attention. That someone remembered. That every milestone, every achievement, and every moment of growth mattered enough to commemorate. They represented a parent’s devotion, the kind that notices when a child accomplishes something difficult, the kind that celebrates both grand victories and small triumphs.
“When the time came, these ornaments were passed down as a precious inheritance. They were wrapped carefully in tissue paper and placed in a box, given with the hope of starting a new tree and creating new memories.” But then the box of ornaments ended up in someone else’s hands. However it happened, they were kept and claimed as their own. Years of love, separated from their rightful home. Gone. What does someone see when they open a box like that? Do they recognize what they’re holding? Or do they just see ceramic and glass as items to sell or discard? Perhaps they pulled out the ornaments one by one, confused about why someone would keep such things. Perhaps they noticed “Baby’s First Christmas” and wondered, just for a moment, if anyone had ever bought an ornament like that for them.
Losing the box shattered more than a sense of security. It felt like losing pieces of a life story. Those ornaments held memories that could be touched, held, and hung on a tree year after year. They were physical reminders of time passing, of love given, of a childhood cherished. But someone misunderstood what truly mattered: ornaments are just objects, but the memories are irreplaceable. The wobbly bicycle rides down the driveway. The frozen moment on stage before remembering the dance steps. The determination to practice piano until every note rang clear. The laughter, ice cream, and magic of that Disney family vacation. Those moments live in hearts, not in ceramic.”
What if the person who has those ornaments never experienced that kind of love? What if no one ever documented their childhood, marked their milestones, or said through small acts of devotion, “Your life matters to me”? What if they’ve never known what it feels like to be seen, remembered, and celebrated? It doesn’t erase the loss. But it opens a door to understanding. That sometimes those who keep what isn’t theirs are trying to fill a void they don’t even know how to name.
New ornaments will be purchased! And together, new stories will be told. The bicycle. The ballerina. The piano. The Disney castle. Every single memory will be, and in the retelling, something becomes clear: the ornaments were never the point. They were symbols. Beautiful, meaningful symbols, but symbols nonetheless. The real gift was love itself. The noticing. The remembering. The consistent choice, year after year, to say “you matter.” That gift lives in actions and attention and presence. It can’t be packed in a box or hidden in the night. And somewhere across the way, maybe someone sorting through the box they find a tiny ceramic bear on a swing. They turn it over in their hands and read “Baby’s First Christmas.”
I hope something might stir in them—an unfamiliar feeling, a longing they can’t quite name. Perhaps sadness washes over them when they finally understand: these memories and ornaments aren’t theirs and never will be. Maybe their mother had never shown them this kind of devotion—the careful attention, the tradition-building, the message that said, ‘You matter’ in small, repeated acts of love, year after year: you are worth remembering. You are worth celebrating. You are loved.
A mother’s love, the kind poured into choosing each ornament, isn’t something that transfers with possession. It stays where it was always meant to be. “The memories remain with the one who received them, year after year.”
by Donna Lewis Stiles | Nov 23, 2025 | Beach Life, Holidays, Lifestyle
Welcome to Chez Stiles Books
A November Note: On Gratitude and New Beginnings
There’s something perfect about launching Chez Stiles Books during the season of Thanksgiving. As we gather around tables counting our blessings, I’m counting mine: a decade of teaching incredible children, a lifetime of adventures that shaped my stories, and now this—the chance to share tales of kindness and gratitude with a whole new generation of young readers.
If there’s one thing I’m thankful for this November, it’s the opportunity to do work that matters. Work that whispers to children, “Your kindness counts. Your differences are beautiful. Your grateful heart can change the world.”
So, here’s the thing about life—it rarely goes in a straight line. And honestly? That’s where all the good stories live.
My journey to becoming a children’s book author started with a crown (yes, really—Miss Delaware, circa way back when), wound through a decade of opening a dance studio and coaching tap, ballet, jazz, and baton, and then took a scenic detour through countless boating adventures with two Black Labs who thought they were pirates, and somehow landed me here: Chez Stiles Books. For those wondering, “Chez Stiles” is French for “House of Stiles.” I thought it sounded far more sophisticated than “Donna’s Book Situation,” which was the working title for approximately ten minutes.
From Studio to Coastline to Chapters—Here’s what many years of teaching children shows you: kids are the most honest audience you’ll ever have. They’ll tell you straight up what you’re doing is boring (usually by wandering away or making that face), and when they love something, their joy is contagious.
I learned that the lessons that stick aren’t about memorizing a routine; they’re about kindness, gratitude, and understanding that being different isn’t just okay, it’s what makes the world beautiful. Those classroom moments when a shy child stood up for someone, when children celebrated each other’s unique quirks, when they learned to say ‘thank you’ and actually mean it—those are the moments that changed me as much as them. And here’s the beautiful part: I still hear from many of those students as adults, some now parents themselves, and those connections remain some of my most precious treasures.”
Beach Girl – My years in Ocean City, Maryland, weren’t just about raising two amazing humans and perfecting my crab cake recipe. They were about understanding the rhythm of coastal living—those endless summer days, the way light dances on water, and the adventures that happen when you have a boat, two kids, and labs named Raven and Captain who were convinced they were part of the crew.
I’ve always been a beach girl at heart. Give me sandy toes, salt air, and a good book—preferably one about pirates and adventure—and I’m perfectly content. There’s something about the freedom of the ocean, the call of adventure on the open water, and yes, my lifelong love affair with pirate tales that shaped not just my lifestyle but also my storytelling voice. Those swashbuckling stories I devoured as a kid. They taught me that the best adventures often involve being brave enough to be different, kind enough to help your crew, and bold enough to chart your own course. The beach life shaped everything: my design aesthetic, my storytelling style, and my firm belief that the best childhood memories involve a little salt air and a lot of freedom.
The Tampa Chapter – These days, I’ve traded the Atlantic for the Gulf and the black labs for Hook—a French Bulldog with more personality than should be legal in one small, snorty package. He’s become my studio companion, occasional character inspiration, and the most honest critic of my lunch choices. (Still a beach girl, just with warmer winters and better sunsets.) Then there’s my grandson JJ and the grand-dogs, Tate and Camie, who remind me daily why I do this work. Watching JJ discover the world with fresh eyes, watching his contagious smile—that’s the stuff that fuels every whimsical tale and enchanting illustration I create.
Beautiful Living, One Story at a Time – Through all of life’s chapters—from pageant stages to dance studios, from boat decks to my Tampa writing nook—I’ve held onto one belief: beautiful living comes from embracing both elegance and authenticity. And you know what? That applies to people too. We’re all a little different, a little quirky, beautifully imperfect—and that’s exactly how we should be.
So that’s what you’ll find here: children’s books that are beautifully crafted but genuinely real. Stories with heart, humor, and messages about kindness, acceptance, and thankfulness woven so naturally into the adventure that kids don’t even realize they’re learning life’s most important lessons. Just enough magic to make bedtime the best time, and just enough truth to make little hearts a little kinder. Perfect for bedtime stories, classroom read-alouds, or any moment when you want to remind a child that being kind and being different are both beautiful things.
Find all Chez Stiles books on Amazon or my website, ChezStilesBooks.com. Perfect for bedtime stories, classroom read-alouds, or any moment when you want to remind a child that being kind and being different are both beautiful things. 👉 Shop on Amazon | Browse Our Website Collection
You can follow me on Instagram [@chezstilesbooks] for behind-the-scenes peeks at new books and gentle reminders about kindness. Because we’re all in this beautiful, messy, wonderful journey together. Thank you for being here. Thank you for choosing stories that matter. And thank you for helping raise a generation of kinder, more grateful humans.
by Donna Lewis Stiles | Jul 15, 2024 | Holidays
Christmas in July: A Festive Mid-Year Celebration
While most of us associate Christmas with the chilly winds of December, the concept of “Christmas in July” has become a beloved mid-year celebration for many. Originating in the Southern Hemisphere, where July is the heart of winter, this whimsical holiday has gained popularity around the world. Let’s explore the origins, traditions, and fun ways to celebrate Christmas in July.
The Origins of Christmas in July – The idea of celebrating Christmas in July is believed to have started at a summer camp in Brevard, North Carolina, in 1933. The campers enjoyed a festive party complete with a visit from Santa Claus, carol singing, and even a Christmas tree. The concept quickly caught on, providing a way for people to experience the joy and magic of Christmas during the summer months.
In the Southern Hemisphere, where July is wintertime, the tradition takes on a more practical aspect. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa find it delightful to have a winter celebration that mirrors the snowy Christmases of the Northern Hemisphere. This allows them to enjoy hearty Christmas meals, hot cocoa, and cozy fireplaces without the summer heat.
Traditions and Activities Christmas in July is all about bringing a bit of the holiday spirit into the middle of the year. Here are some popular traditions and activities to help you celebrate:
- Festive Decorations – Transform your home into a winter wonderland with decorations. Put up a Christmas tree, hang twinkling lights, and scatter ornaments and tinsel. For an extra touch of fun, use summer-themed decorations like seashell ornaments or tropical-colored lights.
- Christmas Feasts – Prepare a traditional Christmas meal or opt for a barbecue with festive touches. Think roasted meats, hearty sides, and holiday desserts like gingerbread cookies and fruitcake. For a summer twist, incorporate fresh, seasonal fruits and salads.
- Gift Exchange – Who says you can only give gifts in December? Organize a gift exchange with family and friends. Set a budget, pick a theme, or even go for a white elephant gift exchange to add a bit of humor and surprise.
- Holiday Movies – Nothing sets the mood like a good Christmas movie. Gather your loved ones for a movie marathon featuring classics like “Home Alone,” “Elf,” or “A Christmas Story.” Don’t forget the popcorn and hot cocoa!
- Outdoor Fun – Take advantage of the warm weather with outdoor activities. Host a pool party, set up a slip-and-slide, or organize a game of beach volleyball. For a winter twist, have a snowball fight with water balloons or set up a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt.
Spreading Joy and Goodwill – Christmas in July is also an excellent opportunity to spread joy and goodwill. Consider organizing a charity event, donating to a local food bank, or volunteering your time to help those in need. The essence of Christmas is about giving and sharing, and this mid-year celebration is a perfect reminder to embrace that spirit all year round.
Conclusion – Christmas in July is a fun and festive way to break up the year and bring a bit of holiday magic into the summer months. Whether you go all out with decorations, feasts, and parties, or simply enjoy a quiet evening with a Christmas movie, the joy and warmth of the season can be felt no matter the date on the calendar. So, deck the halls, spread some cheer, and enjoy a merry Christmas in July!
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