by Donna Lewis Stiles | Jan 15, 2026 | Lifestyle, Local News
Ahoy, Young Buccaneers! Have you ever dreamed of being a pirate? Well, every January, the city of Tampa, Florida transforms into a pirate paradise during the legendary Gasparilla Parade! It’s one of the biggest pirate festivals in the entire country, and kids absolutely love it.
What is Gasparilla? The Gasparilla Pirate Festival celebrates the legend of José Gaspar, a mythical pirate who supposedly terrorized the waters of Southwest Florida in the late 1700s and early 1800s. While José Gaspar might be a legend, the fun is absolutely real!
The Invasion: The festivities kick off when hundreds of pirates aboard the majestic pirate ship José Gasparilla “invade” downtown Tampa by sailing into the harbor. They’re greeted by thousands of cheering fans dressed in their best pirate gear—eye patches, bandanas, striped shirts, and all!
The Parade After the invasion, the Gasparilla Parade takes over the streets with:
- Colorful floats decorated like pirate ships
- Marching bands playing lively music
- Pirates throwing beads, coins, and treasures to the crowds
- Dancers, performers, and entertainers
- And so much energy and excitement!
Kids line the parade route with bags and buckets ready to catch all the treasures being tossed from the floats. It’s like a treasure hunt come to life!
Meet Hook: Gasparilla’s Littlest Buccaneer – But what if you’re too little to remember all the pirate rules? What if you’re not quite sure how to be brave on the high seas? That’s where Hook, Gasparilla’s littlest buccaneer, comes in!
The Story of Hook – In the charming children’s book Gasparilla’s Littlest Buccaneer: Hook, young readers meet Hook—a pint-sized pirate with a big heart and even bigger dreams. Hook might be small, but he’s determined to prove that even the littlest buccaneer can make a big difference during Tampa’s famous Gasparilla celebration.
Follow Hook’s adventure as he:
- Learns what it means to be brave
- Discovers the importance of teamwork and friendship
- Navigates the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) world of Gasparilla
- Shows that you don’t have to be the biggest or the loudest to be a hero
This delightful story is perfect for:
- Kids ages 3-8 who love pirates and adventure
- Families preparing for their first Gasparilla experience
- Tampa locals who want to share their city’s traditions with young readers
- Anyone who believes that courage comes in all sizes
Why Kids Love Hook – Hook’s story resonates with children because:
- It’s relatable: Hook faces fears and challenges that all kids understand
- It’s empowering: The message that being small doesn’t mean you can’t be mighty
- It’s fun: Colorful illustrations and pirate adventure keep kids engaged
- It celebrates Tampa: Local families love seeing their beloved Gasparilla tradition come to life in a storybook
How to Get Your Copy of Hook’s Adventure – Ready to bring Hook home and start your own pirate adventure? You have two great options:
Option 1: Amazon Paperback Visit Amazon and search for “Gasparilla’s Littlest Buccaneer Hook” to order: Paperback version: Perfect for bedtime stories and reading together. CLICK HERE TO ORDER FROM AMAZON
Option 2: Interactive Flipbook – For a unique digital reading experience, check out the interactive flipbook version! This format lets you: Turn pages with realistic page-flip animations. CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE FLIPBOOK!
- Read on any device—computer, tablet, or phone
- Enjoy the full-color illustrations in digital format
- Share the story easily with family and friends
Tips for Enjoying Gasparilla with Kids – Planning to attend Gasparilla with your little buccaneers? Here are some tips:
- Arrive Early: Get a good spot along the parade route
- Dress the Part: Pirate costumes make it extra fun!
- Bring Bags: For collecting all those beads and treasures
- Stay Hydrated: Florida sunshine can be warm, even in January
- Read Hook’s Story First: It’s a great way to get kids excited and prepared for the adventure
- Take Breaks: The parade is long—find a spot where kids can sit and rest
- Make Memories: Take lots of photos of your little pirates!
Why Gasparilla Is Special for Tampa Families – For over 100 years, Gasparilla has been a beloved Tampa tradition that brings families together. It’s more than just a parade—it’s:
- A celebration of community and Tampa pride
- A chance for kids to experience history and legend
- An opportunity to create lasting family memories
- A day filled with joy, laughter, and adventure
And now, with Hook’s story, even the youngest members of your crew can feel like they’re part of the magic.
Join Hook on His Adventure Today! Whether you’re a Tampa local or visiting from far away, Gasparilla’s Littlest Buccaneer: Hook is the perfect companion to one of Florida’s most exciting festivals.
Share Hook’s journey with your little ones and watch as they discover that bravery, friendship, and fun come in all sizes.
Ready to set sail with Hook?
Order your copy on Amazon today
Check out the interactive flipbook version
Share Hook’s story with young pirates everywhere
Because every great adventure starts with a great story—and Hook’s adventure is one your kids will want to experience again and again! Ahoy, mateys! See you at Gasparilla! ⚓🏴☠️
Connect With Us! ChezStilesBooks.com
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 | 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 2, 2024 | Housing Market, Lifestyle, Local News
Celebrating the Fourth of July at The Mirada Lagoon in San Antonio, Florida The Fourth of July, America’s Independence Day, is a time for celebration, reflection, and community gatherings. Among the myriads of places where people celebrate this patriotic holiday, The Mirada Lagoon in San Antonio, Florida, stands out as a premier destination for a memorable Fourth of July experience. Combining natural beauty, innovative amenities, and a festive atmosphere, The Mirada Lagoon offers a unique way to celebrate this iconic American holiday.
The Mirada Lagoon: A Jewel in San Antonio Nestled in the heart of San Antonio, Florida, The Mirada Lagoon is the largest human-made lagoon in the United States, spanning 15 acres of crystal-clear waters. This massive aquatic wonderland is not only a place for relaxation but also a hub for various water activities and community events. Its stunning blue waters, sandy beaches, and lush surroundings create an idyllic setting for holiday celebrations.
Festivities at The Lagoon
Fireworks Extravaganza: The highlight of the Fourth of July at The Mirada Lagoon is undoubtedly the grand fireworks display. As the sun sets, the sky above the lagoon lights up with a dazzling array of colors, shapes, and patterns. The reflection of the fireworks on the pristine waters adds an extra layer of magic, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle that leaves visitors in awe. Families and friends gather on the beaches and floating docks, enjoying the show from the best vantage points.
Live Music and Entertainment: Throughout the day, the lagoon hosts live music performances featuring local bands and artists. The sounds of upbeat tunes and patriotic songs fill the air, encouraging spontaneous dancing and sing-alongs. In addition to music, entertainers such as magicians, jugglers, and face painters keep both kids and adults entertained, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Water Activities and Sports: For those looking to make a splash, The Mirada Lagoon offers a wide range of water activities. From paddleboarding and kayaking to floating obstacle courses and water slides, there’s something for everyone. The lagoon’s gentle waves and shallow areas make it a safe and enjoyable environment for families with young children.
Food and Drink: No Fourth of July celebration is complete without delicious food and refreshing drinks. The Mirada Lagoon features various food trucks and stalls offering a diverse array of culinary delights. From classic American BBQ and burgers to fresh seafood and international cuisine, the options are plentiful. Ice-cold beverages, including craft beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks, help keep everyone cool and refreshed.
Community Spirit: One of the most special aspects of celebrating the Fourth of July at The Mirada Lagoon is the strong sense of community. Neighbors, friends, and visitors come together to celebrate America’s independence in a warm and welcoming environment. It’s an opportunity to connect, share stories, and create lasting memories with loved ones. 
Practical Information Location: The Mirada Lagoon is in San Antonio, Florida, a short drive from major cities like Tampa and Orlando. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
Tickets and Admission: While some events at The Mirada Lagoon are free, others may require tickets or reservations. It’s advisable to check the official website or contact the lagoon’s management for detailed information on pricing and availability.
Safety Measures: Given the large crowds expected during the Fourth of July celebrations, The Mirada Lagoon takes safety seriously. Lifeguards are stationed throughout the lagoon, and security personnel ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. 
Conclusion Celebrating the Fourth of July at The Mirada Lagoon in San Antonio, Florida, is an experience like no other. With its stunning fireworks display, lively entertainment, exciting water activities, and delicious food, the lagoon provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable Independence Day celebration. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, The Mirada Lagoon offers a unique and festive way to honor America’s independence while enjoying the beauty and amenities of this remarkable destination.
#lagoonlife #miradalagoon #thebeachhomeagent #lagoonlifestyles
Escape to paradise and discover the ultimate lagoon lifestyle at Mirada Lagoon! We’re excited to offer you a free comprehensive guide that will unlock the secrets to living your best life in our vibrant community. From thrilling water adventures and relaxing beach days to world-class amenities and exciting social events, Mirada Lagoon has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn how you can experience the ultimate blend of luxury, recreation, and community spirit. Download your free guide today and start your journey to lagoon living!
by Donna Lewis Stiles | Oct 1, 2023 | Foodie, Lifestyle
Happy National Taco Day!
This is the day we celebrate the deliciousness of tacos, in all their forms.
From classic street tacos to gourmet creations, there’s a taco out there for everyone.
Here’s my favorite recipe for Smash Burger Tacos!
SMASH BURGER TACO RECIPE
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20-30 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lbs. ground beef
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small flour tortillas
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cooking oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup dill pickle relish
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- ½ tsp paprika powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
Instructions:
Make the Smash Burgers: Start by seasoning the ground beef with salt and pepper. Then, divide it into 8 equal portions and shape them into balls.
Take each meatball and press it down onto a tortilla, using your fingers to flatten it out.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a small amount of cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Place a tortilla in the skillet with the meat side down. Use a spatula or another flat tool to press the beef down, creating a thin patty that covers most of the tortilla’s surface.
- Cook the burger on one side for about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes until the beef begins to brown. If desired, use the back of the spatula to press down on the burger to flatten it further.
- Flip the tortilla and burger over and immediately sprinkle a portion of shredded mozzarella cheese over the cooking beef patty.
- Cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt and continue cooking for another 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, or until the burger is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Remove the smash burger from the skillet and set it aside. Repeat this process with the remaining smash burger tacos.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, paprika powder, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully blended. Set the sauce aside.
- Assemble the Smash Burger Tacos: Sprinkle the chopped onions over the shredded iceberg lettuce.
- Drizzle the prepared sauce over the toppings. Adjust the sauce amount according to your taste.
- To assemble each taco, place a generous amount of shredded iceberg lettuce with onions on top of the burger.
- Fold the tortilla in half, creating a taco shape.
- Serve the smash burger tacos immediately and enjoy the delicious fusion of smash burgers and tacos!
Tequila Sunrise: A Taste of paradise in a glass.
This saying highlights the delicious flavor of the Tequila Sunrise cocktail, which is a combination of tequila, orange juice, and grenadine.
It is a sweet and tart cocktail that is sure to please your taste buds.
by Donna Lewis Stiles | Sep 26, 2023 | Lifestyle
Sometimes you just need a beach bag … some bread, wine and a blanket.
Beach Lifestyle: Everything You Need to Know …Living the beach lifestyle is a dream for many people. It evokes images of long days spent on the sand, swimming in the ocean, and enjoying the sun and surfing. But what is it really like to live the beach life?
There are many benefits to living near the beach. For one thing, it’s great for your health. Spending time outdoors in the sun and fresh air can help to improve your mood, reduce stress, and boost your immune system. Swimming in the ocean is also a great way to get exercise and improve your cardiovascular health.
In addition to the physical benefits, living near the beach can also have a positive impact on your mental health. Studies have shown that being close to nature can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. And there’s nothing quite like the sound of the waves and the smell of the salt air to help you relax and de-stress.
Of course, living the beach lifestyle isn’t all about fun and games. There are also some challenges to consider. For one thing, the cost of living in coastal areas is often higher than in other parts of the country. And if you live in a hurricane-prone area, you’ll need to be prepared for the possibility of storms and evacuations.
But overall, the benefits of living the beach lifestyle far outweigh the challenges. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and healthier lifestyle, living near the beach is a great option to consider.
Here are some tips for making the most of the beach lifestyle:
- Get outside every day. Even if it’s just for a short walk or swim, make time to spend some time outdoors each day.
- Be active. There are many ways to get active at the beach, such as swimming, surfing, running, and biking.
- Enjoy the sunshine. Vitamin D is essential for good health, so soak up some sun each day, but be sure to wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Eat healthy foods. Fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables are all plentiful in coastal areas. Make sure to eat a healthy diet to fuel your active lifestyle.
- Connect with nature. Take some time each day to relax and appreciate the beauty of the beach. Go for a walk in the sand, listen to the waves, and watch the sunset.
If you’re thinking about making a move to the beach, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the cost of living. Coastal areas are often more expensive to live in than other parts of the country. Second, think about the climate. If you’re not used to living in a hot and humid climate, you may want to adjust slowly. And finally, be prepared for the possibility of hurricanes and other natural disasters.
But if you’re looking for a more relaxed and healthier lifestyle, living near the beach is a great option to consider. With its stunning scenery and endless activities, the beach has something to offer everyone.
