Two longtime friends persist during these difficult times just like a dandelion
Last fall, Jeri Kay Thomas, a junior kindergarten teacher for Brighton schools, and her friend Jeanne Blazo, a retired Kindergarten teacher, made a longtime dream of theirs come true: they opened up their own bookstore in downtown Brighton.
The name of their shop, 2 Dandelions, is a metaphor for the stubborn resilience of the dandelion as it scatters happiness and joy. It also represents their deeply rooted belief in the benefits of learning from nature. Anyone who visits their store will notice a strong focus on nature.
Despite having to close their physical doors for some time, their love of reading has continued to grow and spread to the community. They continue to take online and special orders, and have received a big response with curbside service.
Thomas shares, “When we finally reopened our doors, many people told us we were one of the first places they visited. We felt honored. They knew this was a safe place to come.”
Keeping the community connected through reading
A love of nature, reading, and community inspired these two women to start an outdoor storytime at the Brighton Mill Pond on Saturdays at 11am. In addition to reading books themselves, they have invited local guest authors such as Denise Brennan-Nelson.
“I feel like all is right with the world when we come together for this storytime,” explains Thomas.
When storytime is over, you can continue the family fun by strolling through the Brighton Farmers Market, now held on Main Street.
Books They Love
“There are so many children’s books that we love right now,” says Blazo when asked what her current recommendations are. “There are many wonderful books being published.”
Both Thomas and Blazo agree that their top choice is the picture book Most People by Michael Leannah.
“Every home and classroom (even high schools) in the world should have a copy of this book,” says Thomas. “It celebrates everyone’s uniqueness and potential, emphasizing that most people are good people.”
Blazo elaborates, “We don’t know what kids are seeing and hearing. Books like this can help ensure they are hearing encouraging words.”
Another big seller right now that they highly recommend is maybe by Kobi Yamada which is about everyone’s unbound potential.
In addition to a rich children’s collection, the store contains reading for all ages and interests and a unique “Educators as Designers” section.
Scattering Positivity on Social Media
While social media can be a scary place right now, full of anger and fear, Thomas and Blazo have found a way to slice through the negativity with positive words.
On both Instagram and Facebook, they post an inspiring quote weekly on Mondays and a word of the week on Wednesdays. This past week’s inspiring word was fabuloso!
Shop Local
The next time you’re looking for your next great read, 2 Dandelions Bookshop is the place to visit! They currently offer indoor shopping (in compliance with executive orders), curbside pick-up, and delivery.
Thomas and Blazo share these encouraging words: “We hope to see you soon. Until then, have a fabuloso day!”
Outdoor Family Storytime: Saturdays at 11am at the Brighton Mill Pond off of Main Street. Social distancing is observed.
209 W. Main St., Suite 105, Brighton. 810-522-5310. 10am-8pm Tuesday-Saturday, 12-5pm Sunday.
For more information, visit their website, 2 Dandelions Bookshop, call 810-522-5310, or email books@2dandelionsbookshop.com
