Cover Artwork By Maura Donahue LOCAL TREASURES Food, Fashion & Fun REAL ESTATE CORNER Welcoming a Balanced Market in 2026 HINTS FOR THE HOME Color and Mood PLAY TO WIN Details on page 6! VOLUME LXXVII FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 Bridgewater, Branchburg, Hillsborough, Martinsville, Somerville Bridgewater-Somerville Edition
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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 6 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 8 Medical Minutes: Performance Ortho 11 Financial Forum: Shapiro CPAs 12 Tax Talk: Kingswood Tax and Business Services, LLC 14-21 SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS 14 Valentine’s Day Gift Inspirations 16 Family Adventures: Joanne Kleinle 18 Connection Community Champions: NJ Ballroom Dancers 20 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 21 Campers & Caviar: Serafina Perrotto 22-24 KIDZ CONNECTION 22 Teen Voice: Siya Gokhale 23 Shelf Awareness: Sonia Prabhakar & Isabella Santos 26-29 SENIOR LIVING 26 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 28 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 28 Community News: Heath Village 30-35 HEALTH & WELLNESS 30 Mind the Mind: Dr. Michael Osit 32 Health Hotline: NMR 34 Food for Thought: Lori Kolodin 35 Health Hotline: Balance & Flow 36-40 HOME & DESIGN 36 Hints for the Home: Fair Street Interiors 38 Real Estate Corner: Johanna Wiseman 42-43 COMMUNITY CALENDAR 44 Commends: Red Door Real Estate Maura Donahue Title of Artwork: Serenity Medium: acrylic painting on stretched canvas Maura Donahue is an acrylic painter from Woodbridge, New Jersey specializing in portraiture and still lifes. Initially self-taught starting at a young age, Maura took advanced art classes throughout school. In her late twenties she began to build a brand and a following for herself on social media as well as creating her website and online shops. Years later Maura studied at duCret Art Academy in Plainfield, New Jersey (where she now runs the Work in Progress Art Club). She also participated in the Openings Artist residency in Lake George, New York. Maura participates in many juried art shows around New Jersey. She has also been featured in publications such as Breaker Magazine and Soup Can Magazine. She continues to create personal work including self-portraits and food-related still lifes, as well as working with clients to create commissions. THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE'S TEAM PUBLISHED BY Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, Alicia Singman, Jeanette Vogel, Pramisa Timsina The Connection Magazine P.O. Box 4081, Warren, NJ 07059 908-903-1799 | info@theconnectionsnj.com Somewhere in this magazine is aFAKE AD. Spot it and send your answer, along with your name, city or town and phone number to: spotthefake@theconnectionsnj.com or play online at theconnectionsnj.com. The WINNER of the Sno' Problem Plumbing in the November issue is Norma Lucero of Bridgewater. Norma won a gift certificate to Stone Tavern in Bridgewater. Next Issue April! Advertising deadline March 11, 2026 SPOT THE FAKE! Disclaimer: The views expressed in the articles are the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Connection Magazines. We publish all advertisements, editorials and other content in good faith. We cannot guarantee or accept liability for the accuracy of the claims made by the advertisers. ON OUR COVER Highlights... Happy New Year—and hello to a fresh start! Welcome to the Bridgewater-Somerville edition of our February issue. As we say goodbye to last year, we welcome a new year filled with opportunity, good health, and meaningful connections. February is a time to reflect on what truly matters -community, relationships, and supporting the local businesses that make our neighborhoods thrive. At The Connection Magazine, our mission has always been to keep small businesses at the forefront. When you shop locally, you’re not just making a purchase, you’re investing in personalized service, unique finds, and one-of-a-kind experiences you simply won’t find online or in big-box stores. From thoughtful gifts to exceptional service, local businesses o er something truly special. Visit them for all things local, and please be sure to tell them we sent you. This issue, we’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with a specially curated guide filled with local treasures for food, fashion, and fun. Our Valentine’s Guide showcases businesses across all three Connection editions, The Warren–Watchung, Bernards–Ridge, and Bridgewater– Somerville Editions, giving you endless inspiration for celebrating the people you love. Whether you’re searching for a memorable dining experience, a unique gift, or something beautifully unexpected, you’ll find it right here. This issue is also packed with inspiration to start the year strong. Explore our Health & Wellness section to discover trusted local providers dedicated to keeping your body and mind healthy. Turn to our Home section for ideas along with experts ready to help with projects you’ve been meaning to tackle. Whether it’s remodeling, decorating, or buying/selling your home you will find them here. Be sure to check our Community Calendar, available both in print and online, highlighting activities and events for children and adults alike. There’s always something happening close to home. Our gorgeous cover was created by Maura Donahue and is titled, Serenity. This painting is particularly significant to the artist as the images in it represent concepts that define what serenity means to Maura. She explains, “The hand reaching up symbolizes hope. The butterflies represent freedom. And the sunrise represents a new start.” Her painting truly depicts what the word serenity would look like in art form! Read our Hints for the Home by Gail Bicknell which features a discussion of “Color and Mood” within home décor. Not only does she provide tips on how to choose the right color but also recommends some iconic ones to incorporate into your favorite rooms. She reminds us that, “Color is deeply personal. Identify what you’re attracted to. And enjoy!” For those of you who have made “well-being” resolutions, consider Tai Chi. Our Health Hotline column describes how this ancient Chinese martial art can cultivate balance and stress reduction and enhance overall mind, body and spirit. Try a class at Balance & Flow in Gladstone and conquer those health resolutions! We’re also excited to share that The Connection Magazine is now on TikTok! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for all things local and get a bird’s-eye view of restaurants and shops to visit. Our featured businesses appear both in print and online. Visit us digitally at theconnectionsnj.com. Thank you for supporting local, supporting community, and supporting The Connection Magazine. Here’s to a year of growth, connection, and community spirit. Warmly, Anna Petro Publisher, The Connection Magazine A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gail Bicknell, Siya Gokhale, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Ellyn Mantell, Dr. Joseph Mejia, Dr. Michael Osit, Serafina Perrotto, Sonia Prabhakar, Isabella Santos, Dr. Vince Sferra, Robert Shapiro, Frank Walko, Chris Wilson, Johanna Wiseman
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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 10 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 theconnectionsnj.com HOLY CROSS CEMETERY & MAUSOLEUM OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP PARISH 145 Mount Airy Rd. | Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 (908) 766-0079 | www.holycrosscem.com When the Outcome Matters, You Need a Lawyer with the Skills and Expertise You Can Trust As a practicing attorney with 25+ years of experience and a yoga teacher, Jen understands the unique challenges businesses face and has the solutions you need. Environmental, Land Use & Sustainability Law Business & Employment Law Yoga and Wellness Industry Representation Contact Us Today for an Initial Consultation Tel. 908-335-9242 For Client Inquiries only: Jennifer@JenniferMohamedLaw.com All other inquiries: Admin@JenniferMohamedLaw.com LAW OFFICE OF JENNIFER MOHAMED LLC d/b/a/ Jen the Yoga Lawyer LET’S TALK ✓ Strategic Problem Solver ✓ Experienced & Professional ✓ Client-Centered Approach We otect the Business Behind Your actice 50 amwellautobody@gmail.com Tesla Certified
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 11 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 theconnectionsnj.com Fee-based Wealth Management Financial Planning Tax-efficient Investing Tailored Service, Disciplined Strategies, and Committed Guidance. Complimentary Initial Consultation 30 Technology Dr., Warren, NJ The key to your financial success shapirogrp.com Sophisticated expertise for today and future generations. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Shapiro Financial Group is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. 908-222-3770 shapirogroup@raymondjames.com 80 years of professional service Individual Tax Preparation Business Tax Preparation Accounting & Consulting info@shapirogrp.com Complimentary Initial Consultation 30 Technology Dr., Warren, NJ 908-222-3770 info@shapirogrp.com erving successful individuals and closely held businesses for over 75 years! For the third year in a row, 2025 made equity markets cheer! Of course, it is not only what you make but what you keep. Investors may be met with an unpleasant surprise tax bill. It is anticipated that 1099 tax forms will be reporting significant taxable income. To avoid the issue, we help clients monitor and avoid excess capital gains. We have the capabilities to monitor investment income year-round. Those who choose to use our integrated services have the added benefits of a single point of personal contact and the efficient and stress-free convenience that tax reporting documents are received electronically by our offices. A little math for a big, beautiful bill (OBBA). Something for everyone, seniors to newborns. For married filing joint taxpayers (MFJ): the standard deduction continues to rise to $31,500, along with an extra $12,000 for senior couples, subject to income limitation, no tax on tips or overtime up to $25,000 and partial relief for state and local tax deduction. There is a new limit of $40,000, again subject to income limits, and the annual gift tax exclusion remains $19,000 per person, in case any grandparents are thinking of gifts. Parents of newborns can establish an investment fund starting this July, called a Trump account. The government will contribute $1,000, with opportunity for contributions of up to $5,000 annually. These accounts will be tax deferred and invested in securities that track the US stock index. Taxpayers should closely monitor adjusted gross income (AGI). These amounts are used to determine eligibility for both Federal and State deductions and credits. Many deductions are phased out based upon income. Increases in AGI can be particularly painful for seniors, Medicare premiums are means tested, commonly referred as IRMAA. Resident NJ taxpayers have several property tax relief programs based upon AGI which should not be overlooked, for example Senior Freeze, Anchor, and pilot-Stay NJ. Controllable income, such as Roth conversion and investment income should consider AGI outcomes. For businesses, permanent 100% bonus depreciation on qualifying assets. Research and development (R&D) costs can be currently expensed rather than capitalizing and amortizing over time. For pass-through type entities, such as partnerships and certain corporations, the QBI 20% deduction is made permanent. Stress Free Tax Season We are a small firm that provides big results. While larger CPA firms are abandoning the individual and family business, we at Shapiro CPAs continue to embrace it. We are accepting a select group of new clients this tax season. By choosing Shapiro CPAs, you will get better outcomes and confidence that your taxes are done right. Experienced CPAs are trained to improve accuracy, maximize deductions, and minimize tax liability. Robert Shapiro, CPA and his professional team will answer your questions and are skilled in advanced planning techniques. Shapiro CPAs’ caring and experienced team guides clients to a stress-free tax season. We have provided proactive professional service since 1937. Our team is experienced and equipped to manage the complex needs of successful individuals and closely held businesses. Benefits to our clients extend beyond tax season, with year-round personalized access and service. I would welcome the opportunity to put my 40 years of experience to work for YOU. If you would like us to help you with any concepts in this article, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at Shapiro CPAs, 30 Technology Drive Warren, NJ, 908-222-3770. You should discuss any tax or legal matter with your tax or legal advisor. Shapiro CPAs does not provide legal services. This article is not to be construed as written advice under IRS circular 230. FINANCIALFORUM Tax Math and the Pros You Need to Calculate It By Robert Shapiro CPA ABV-Shapiro CPAs S
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 12 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 theconnectionsnj.com hether you are an individual or own a small business, organizing financial records in advance helps minimize errors, avoid delays, and identify potential tax-saving opportunities. This leads to reduced stress, timely filing of returns, and ensuring compliance with tax laws. Working with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can also help identify opportunities to minimize taxes and avoid common errors. Individuals First, gather all personal information. This includes full legal names, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth for yourself and any dependents. Communicate any significant life changes during the year, such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or change in dependency status, as these changes could impact filing status, credits, and deductions. Individuals should collect all income-related documents. Common forms include W-2s for wages, 1099-INT and 1099-DIV for interest and dividends, 1099-R for retirement distributions, and SSA-1099 for Social Security benefits. For gig and contract work, furnish Forms 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC, along with any related expenses. If there is income from partnerships or S-Corporations, provide Schedule K-1. Those with investment activity should furnish brokerage statements or Forms 1099-B showing sales, cost basis, and gains or losses. Be sure to have any documentation related to digital assets. Provide documentation related to deductions and credits, such as mortgage interest statements, property tax records, charitable contribution receipts, medical expenses, education-related costs, and childcare expenses. These items may impact your tax liability, and sources should be clearly summarized. Records should be maintained for ordinary and necessary expenses such as supplies, advertising, insurance, professional fees, utilities, vehicle use, meals, and travel. Payroll records, including Forms W-2, quarterly payroll tax filings, and contractor payments, should be furnished if applicable. Provide information related to assets, such as details of equipment, vehicles, or property purchased or sold during the year, including purchase dates and costs. Proper documentation allows your CPA to calculate depreciation and capital gains or losses accurately. Supply records of estimated tax payments, extensions filed, and any correspondence received from taxing authorities. By taking these steps, individuals and small businesses can expect a smoother and less stressful tax preparation process. Kingswood Tax and Business Services LLC is located at 75 North Bridge Street, Suite B, in Somerville, NJ. For all of your tax prep and business needs, they can be reached at 908-651-4659 or you can email frank@kingswoodtaxandbiz.com. accurate records help ensure that eligible deductions and credits are claimed properly. Lastly, supply records of any estimated tax payments, extension filings, or prior-year carryforwards, along with any correspondence received from the IRS or state tax agencies. Small Businesses Having complete records ready for your tax preparer helps reduce delays, minimize errors, and ensure all income, deductions, and credits are properly reported and considered. First, gather all basic business information. This includes the legal name of the business, employer identification number (EIN), business address, ownership details, and prior-year tax returns. Communicate any changes during the year, such as a change in ownership, business structure, or operations. Complete and accurate income records are essential. Small business owners should provide documentation of gross receipts, including sales reports, bank statements, and Forms 1099-NEC or 1099-K received. Rental income, service income, and other revenue TAX TALK Stress-Free Tax Preparation Starts with Good Organization By Frank Walko W Kingswood Taxand Business services, LLc Frank Walko, CPA – Owner Maximize your potential with innovative solutions and expert advice. Our PERSONALIZED Services include: • Income Tax Preparation – Individual, Business & Estate • Accounting & Consulting Services No Hidden Fees. Individual income tax preparation starts at $199 (may vary based on complexity). Learn more here: www.kingswoodtaxandbiz.com 908-651-4659 frank@kingswoodtaxandbiz.com 75 North Bridge Street | Suite B| Somerville Don’t Stress this Tax Season - Get Professional Help 10% OFF Mention this ad in THE CONNECTION MAGAZINES
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 13 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 theconnectionsnj.com January 16 - February 1, 2026 March 6 - 22, 2026 April 17 - May 3, 2026 Did you know there’s an accessible, award winning community theatre in Hillsborough? If you’re looking for local entertainment, make 2026 the year you check out the Somerset Valley Players! Coming soon at* Somerset Valley Players www.svptheatre.org Made possible by funds from the Somerset County Cultrural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. *Shows & Performance Dates Subject to Change* A man who asks to audition at a small theater is mistaken for an informer for the National Endowment for the Arts. Everyone caters to the bewildered wannabe actor, and he is given a role in the current production, A Christmas Carol. Everything goes wrong and hilarity is piled upon hilarity. Accusations, mistaken identities, and romances run wild in this traditional, laugh-out-loud farce. Two nuns at the Sisters of Perpetual Sewing have been secretly making wine to keep the convent’s doors open, but Paul and Sally, reporters and former fiancees, are hot on their trail. They go undercover as a nun and priest, but their presence, combined with the addition of a new nun, spurs paranoia throughout the convent that spies have been sent from Rome to shut them down. Wine and secrets are inevitably spilled as everyone tries to preserve the convent and reconnect with lost loves. The play tells the story of a young man’s decision to leave the home of his parents for the bachelor pad of his older brother who leads a swinging ’60s lifestyle. Buddy is a 21-year-old virgin and his older brother Alan is a ladies’ man. Alan lives in an apartment in the East Sixties, New York City. As the play progresses, Alan discovers feelings for one of the many women with whom he is sleeping, and when she leaves him, he falls apart. This juxtaposes Alan’s hunger for companionship with Buddy’s metamorphosis into a ladies’ man. The playwright points out the fundamental spiritual and emotional emptiness of the playboy lifestyle for which the younger sibling desperately yearns. For tickets or directions to the theatre visit:
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SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 16 theconnectionsnj.com t has been a long winter. It has been a long school year-already. This time of year, we could all use a little magic. There is no better way to feel the magic than to lose yourself in a good musical. Great singing and performances immerse you in a story with an imaginative set, great costumes, a talented cast, and songs that you can’t help but sing days after you leave the theater. I know of two amazing productions from award-winning programs right in our backyards that the whole family can enjoy. Watchung Hills Regional High School in Warren will present the contemporary production, “The Lightning Thief: A Percy Jackson Musical” March 12-14th, and Ridge High School will perform the classic musical “Mary Poppins” March 5-7th. The drama department at Watching Hills Regional High School chose “The Lightning Thief: A Percy Jackson Musical” for its contemporary feel. Based on the wildly popular novel by Rick Riordan, the plot follows the adventures of Percy Jackson, a half-blood son of a Greek God. He sets out on a quest to retrieve Zeus’ stolen master lightning bolt after discovering his newly discovered powers that he cannot control. His quest takes him to the Underworld and back, requires him to solve a riddle of the Oracle, and makes him come to terms with the father who abandoned him. The story is full of humor, theatrical effects, and is set to an energetic rock score that is played by a four-piece rock band right on the stage. The play is sure to capture the imagination of the young and the young at heart. The content is family friendly, but probably best for children age 8 and up. Tickets to the performance in the modern and comfortable Watching Hills Performing Arts Center can be purchased at https://whrhs.booktix.com/. Ridge High School is going in a different direction with the classic “Mary Poppins.” This stage adaptation is based on P.L. Travers book and the Walt Disney classic movie of the same name. It is an irresistible story of a magical Nanny who “pops in” to spark a family’s imagination and help them to reunite and find each other again. Its message is timeless and so is the famous score. Numbers like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Practically Perfect” will have you dancing in your seat and singing along. There are also amazing theatrical effects that might include Mary Poppins flying through the air! The Ridge High School drama program is constantly ranked as one of the top in the state and has been nominated for, and won, several Rising Star awards from Paper Mill Playhouse. The Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art facility which has comfortable seating and a sunken pit for the live student orchestra. Tickets are available at https://ridgepac.bernardsboe.com/. So bring a little magic into your life. See a musical. It might help you to believe that-in the words of Mary Poppins-everything is possible, even the impossible! Musicals and Memories By Joanne Kleinle FAMILY ADVENTURES I 908-752-5201 www.maxselectricbikes.com Hunterdon Hills Plaza 1386 Route 22 W • Lebanon Visit our other locations in Randolph & Pompton Lakes, NJ and Easton, Doylestown and Wind Gap, PA Get Active, Get Outdoors, Go Green, Get an eBike! are critical! Get the right advice and TRY BEFORE YOU BUY! Come Test Ride Your Perfect eBike All the newest models from Aventon, Velotric, Mokwheel, Aima, and RAWRR. • 2 year factory warranty • Hassle-free warranty claims • Expert assembly with 2 year service guarantee • Factory authorized dealer Over 750 eBikes in stock and ready to ride! We stock & install hitches. All Terrain Fat-Tire eBikes • Cargo eBikes • Commuter eBikes • Kid eBikes e eBikes • Ca go eBikes • Commuter eBikes • Kid eBikes All Terrain Fat-Tire eBikes • Ca e eBikes • Ca
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SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 18 theconnectionsnj.com ew Jersey Ballroom Dance Couple Rising from Amateur to Professional Ranks Nationwide In the demanding world of ballroom sports dancing, progress is measured not only by medals, but by consistency, discipline, and the courage to take the next step. Anhelina Rozghon and her dance partner Artur Solomovych, based in New Jersey, are doing exactly that as they continue to rise on the national stage. Specializing in the Latin American program of ballroom sports dance, the duo has competed in 21 competitions across the United States, steadily building momentum and recognition. Their commitment has translated into strong results, including multiple victories, with five wins achieved in just the past five months, marking a clear surge in competitive success. A major milestone came this year when Anhelina and Artur transitioned from the Amateur Division to the Professional Division — a move that quickly proved wellearned. Before turning professional, the pair reached the final at the U.S. National Amateur Championship, confirming their standing among the top amateur competitors in the country. Just five months later, they made their debut at the Professional National Championship, where they once again reached the finals — this time in two professional categories. The rapid progression from amateur finalists to professional national finalists underscores the effectiveness of their disciplined approach and relentless work ethic. Their success is rooted in structure: consistent training, strict routines, and a long-term mindset focused on growth rather than shortcuts. Competition after competition, they have demonstrated that persistence and preparation can produce results at the highest levels. Anhelina Rozghon and Arthur Solomovych represent the growing presence of elite competitive ballroom talent in New Jersey, showing that dedication and consistency can lead to national recognition. As they continue competing across the United States, their trajectory suggests that this rising professional Latin dance duo is only just getting started. COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS Persistence, Perseverance and Preparation Danced Them into the Pros! CONNECTION N Specializing in the Latin American pro NewJerseyJiffyLube.com ® BRIDGEWATER 1316 Route 22 East 908-231-9800 FRANKLIN 1503 Route 27 South 732-828-6116 A lot of winter still to go... You don’t need an appointment for our fast, courteous service. Come by and visit, before it’s time to take that ride. $15.00 OFF Signature Service Oil Change Disclaimer: Not valid with any other offer for same service. Must present coupon at time of service. Valid at participating stores on jiffylubenewjersey.com. Jiffy Lube, Jiffy Lube design mark and Jiffy Lube Signature Service® are registered trademarks of Jiffy Lube International, Inc. © 2024 Jiffy Lube International, Inc. Code: CM15SSOC Expires: 3/31/26 Winter Checklist ✔ Check your Vital Fluids ✔ Check your Wiper Blades ✔ Check your Tires ✔ Check your Engine Air Filter ✔ Test your Battery Family Owned & Operated For Over 25 Years Located at Morgan Lane Monday-Friday 8am-7pm Between Cozzens Lane and Bennetts Lane Monday-Friday 8am-6pm Both Locations Open: Saturday 7:30am to 5pm - Sunday 8am to 4pm
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SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 20 theconnectionsnj.com Has chocolate become a problem in your life? Unable to say no? Valentine’s gone on too long? The solution is finally here. The Chocolate Detox Center is here to help... There IS a cure for eating your feelings! You are NOT alone! February enrollment is already full but March panic slots are still available! Find us at www.thechocolatedetoxcenter.com or Call us at (822) CHOC-HELP Help is just a call or click away ranny squares are just as popular today as in the ’70s. Look on TikTok, Instagram, and Etsy, and see them featured as garments, accessories, home decor, toys, and even emotional support chicks. (See Nov 2025 article.) They’re called granny squares since they were created from scraps by grandmothers. The simple technique has been passed down through generations. Granny squares are versatile and fun to make. They can vary in size and shape-think round, pentagonal, hexagonal or triangular orientation. They can be basic or elaborate. What is a granny square? It’s a crocheted motif that starts at the center and is worked outward in rounds. Each round uses a different color. A classic granny square is worked in clusters of double crochet with chains in between and double clusters in the corners to form a square. With each additional round, the granny square increases in size. The effect is a lacy looking square that resembles a quilt block. It is easily mastered by beginners, which makes it a popular first project. Granny squares are made separately; so it’s a great carry-along project. Once the squares are complete, they need to be arranged into the shape of the project and then stitched together to make just about anything. Each square needs to have the same number of stitches on each side And then there are the bags! The “Granny Square Beach Bag” by Catherine Neil is 5-14’ squares, 4 sides, and a bottom with crocheted handles. This one was made with scrap cotton yarn. Try adding a square to a baseball cap for fun. There are so many ways to embrace this trend! And of course, shawls and scarves. My “Catch the Wind” design uses 3 different motif sizes that fit together when assembled, i.e., four small squares equal one large square which equals two rectangles. The shawl used 3 different motif types. The large motif begins as a circle design…the small square is solid. The rectangle is a leaf motif woven into a border. Proud to share that this shawl went down the runway at Vogue Live NYC, January 2026. Patterns available on Ravelry. for easy assembly. First the squares are stitched together in column and then the long side or the columns are stitched. A favorite simple blanket is “One Big Granny Square Throw and Afghan” by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas. It’s literally just one giant granny square in the classic design. It can be made with variegated yarn with a long repeat, meaning the colors change after many yards. It gives the appearance of frequent color changes, however, the yarn does all the work. When it reaches the desired size, you’re done. No assembly required. Looking for cardigans? The latest trend is granny squares with a bit of faux fur in one round of the square. This cardigan uses only 16 large motifs, 4 for each sleeve, back, and front. After the squares are assembled, the entire garment is trimmed with an edging for a finished look. Granny squares are just as pop CREATIVECORNER Granny Squares Forever By Carolyn Hanson
SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 21 theconnectionsnj.com oney is an incredibly abundant thing, if you let it be. It can also be daunting, overwhelming, a source of arguments, painfully scary, or a sore subject. It can be hated. Resented. Feared. If you let it be. Your relationship with money (yes, it is a relationship) is no different than your relationship with food, family, or love. It is entirely shaped by your mindset around it. For some people, that’s bad news. For others, it’s incredibly freeing. Either way, where your perception lands is within your control. Now, I’m going to make a statement that’s so obvious it almost goes unnoticed: money is involved in everything. The coffee you drank this morning involved money. The clothes you’re wearing right now involved money. Ask yourself – when was the last day you didn’t either spend or make money? And no, the “free” walk in the park doesn’t count. You paid for the gas to get there, the car itself, and the sunglasses you wore while pretending it was effortless. Money quietly powers nearly every part of our lives. And yet, despite how constant it is, money is rarely neutral to us. You might read this and think, “I love money, thank you for being there for me.” Or you may feel a flicker of resentment or irritation rise instead. But notice the common denominator in both reactions: you. Money itself doesn’t carry emotion or judgment. Your relationship with it is just a reflection of the conditioning you’ve received. If you’re aware enough, the relationship you’ve consciously chosen to cultivate with it. This conversation can deepen quickly, often turning into something far more personal than financial. It’s a topic I explored in greater depth at my January 10th event at HACPAC! For time sake I want to introduce one idea that tends to shift things quickly: the financial thermostat. Just like the thermostat in your home, everyone has one. Maybe 68º feels comfortable or 67º, if your kids won’t stop making jokes about it. In the same way you do at home, you have a financial temperature that feels “comfortable” to you. To find it, imagine increasing your monthly income. When does discomfort kick in? $10,000 a month? $15,000? $20,000? What about $50,000? The moment your chest tightens and a voice says, That’s not realistic, you’ve found your setting. But here’s the part we don’t say out loud enough: there are people making a million dollars a month. The difference isn’t intelligence or worthiness, it’s belief. The only thing limiting you from expanding that thermostat is you. I mentioned earlier that your relationship with money, unlike your relationship with your closet, is entirely within your control. Here are two things I highly suggest: First, think of an amount of cash that would make you slightly uncomfortable to carry. $500, maybe? Put it in your wallet and don’t spend it. Just let it sit there. Feel what it’s like to feel “rich,” even briefly. Second, and this is important, when you inevitably spend it because you forgot your card or life happened, thank it. Actually, thank it. Don’t let the voice of restriction or fear take over. Gratitude softens scarcity. Appreciation expands trust. And only then can we begin to have a healthy relationship with money. CAMPERS&CAVIAR Learning The Art of Living Well Stop Fearing Money and Start Living Abundantly By Serafina Perrotto M Expires 4/6/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 4/6/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 4/6/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 4/6/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 4/6/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. 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KIDZ CONNECTION PAGE 22 theconnectionsnj.com Quality Musical Instruction for All Ages and Abilities Call us today to set up a trial lesson or to inquire more about home-school and senior citizen discounts. Now in our 29th year! Lessons in: piano • guitar • voice orchestral strings brass • woodwinds Call us for details on our upcoming summer music camps. if you live here, you should be exceptional, and if you’re struggling, that’s a personal failure. The competition doesn’t just come from school, either. Social media turns every achievement into something public. Acceptances, scores, internships, awards - they’re all posted, liked, compared. It creates the feeling that everyone else is moving forward while you’re standing still, even when that’s not true at all. What I wish adults understood is that pressure doesn’t always motivate. Sometimes it paralyzes. When everything feels high stakes, it becomes harder to take risks, harder to rest, and harder to enjoy being young. New Jersey teens aren’t lazy or ungrateful; we’re just stretched thin. This is not a call to lower standards or stop caring about education. It’s a call to rethink what exactly success looks like. Maybe success should include sleep. Maybe it should include time to breathe. New Jersey is proud of its students, but pride shouldn’t come at the cost of our mental health. We deserve to be more than just impressive statistics. Siya is a junior at Watchung Hills Regional High School. She loves singing, photography, and spending time with family. rowing up in New Jersey, you get used to hearing the same things over and over: best schools, top rankings, great opportunities. Adults say it like a compliment, like it automatically makes our lives easier. But being a teenager from New Jersey often feels less like an advantage and more like a constant race you didn’t even sign up for. In New Jersey, being “average” isn’t really an option. Everyone seems to be taking endless AP classes, juggling clubs, sports, jobs, and somehow still being told they should be doing more. It’s normal to compare schedules the way people compare resumes. If you’re not overwhelming yourself, it can feel like you’re falling behind, even when you’re exhausted. What makes it harder is how the stress is normalized. Being tired all the time is treated like a personality trait. Saying you slept four hours is almost a flex. When someone admits they’re overwhelmed, the response is usually, “Yeah, same,” not because we don’t care, but because we don’t know what else to say. Burnout has become part of the culture. A lot of this pressure comes from good intentions. Parents want stability. Schools want high achievement. New Jersey prides itself on success. But somewhere along the way, success became defined by constant productivity instead of actual learning or happiness. There’s an unspoken expectation that TEEN VOICE Being a Teen in New Jersey Means Having to Always Be “Ahead” By Siya Gokhale In New Jersey, being “average” isn’t really an option... If you’re not overwhelming yourself, it can feel like you’re falling behind, even when you’re exhausted. G
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