When umbrellas were invented, people judged their neighbors for using them. It sounds “old-school ridiculous”… until someone today yells “bad luck!” when you open one indoors.

Today, umbrellas are a necessity in every home. They’re in such high demand in rainy places like Japan that leaving one unattended will often lead to its mysterious disappearance at the hands of a thief who forgot their own.

Unfortunately, with high demand comes mass production and terrible quality products.

The age of the sturdy, wood-handled, floral print umbrella is over, unless you are lucky enough to inherit the one your grandma carried for fifty years.

For the people whose grandparents didn’t love them: we’re here for you.

This umbrella will keep you dry in hurricane season and cool in droughts. At least, until climate change makes it impossible to go outside. When that happens, you can annoy your superstitious bunker mates by opening it in their room after they steal your last Twinkie.

Who said umbrellas weren’t versatile? This one certainly is.

We tried it out on a sunny day to keep our pasty pale skin protected from the sun's harmful radiation, and we tested it under stormy conditions for longer than we wanted to be out in the rain. For anyone who has been in New York during a storm you've probably seen the dollar store black umbrellas tossed around and thrown away and trash cans after a sudden shower. This umbrella, we can confidently say, won't be tossed in one of those trash bins, because it’s made of quality materials instead of plastic and wire. We've even tested it under snowy conditions, and though we almost froze our toes off, we stayed mostly dry.

If you're a Millennial with a knitting habit, or grew up in a time when products were made to last and floral patterns dominated the scene, this umbrella will probably appeal to you.

Feel free to regift it, or tell us you hate it. We’ll even give you a refund. We don't encourage refunds because we really like to eat, but let’s be real: who actually returns an umbrella?

We’re not worried, because our product is awesome. Our lead designer’s mom put the concept drawing on her fridge, and she’s always right.

If you hate rain and love nostalgia, Retroville’s Olden Days Umbrella is on sale for a limited time – use the code GRANDMA for 25% off.

Cold Brew Summer

Here at Feywild Tea, we love cold brew no matter the season. But when the sun is hot and the days are bright, we get a craving for something cool and refreshing. This year we went a little overboard. Our seasonal teas can all be brewed cold. Technically, you can make any tea icy, but these come in custom bags with special instructions for how to boil and brew a perfectly cold, delightfully smooth tea. This includes caffeinated and non-caffeinated options.

If you want to stay cool in the summer, beat the heat, and enjoy your tea, you may like the new blends in our shop.

For those of you who like drinking hot tea in the middle of summer, we see you. You can still brew all of the seasonal blends as hot as you like, but be sure not to burn the white teas! They’re sensitive, like us.

Let’s Get Shroomy

There’s a lot of talk in the wellness community about the word “adaptogenic.” It sounds fancy at first, but it's as simple as dirt after the rain. Literally. Science is showing us that special blends of mushrooms and herbs contain properties that can significantly benefit your wellness. Some, like reishi mushrooms, help with relaxation. Others can fight fatigue and improve brain health.

The science behind these adaptogenic edibles is still developing, but there are some promising results. You'll find these sources at the end of the newsletter. For those of you who like to see scientific studies and publications before you make a health decision (that's always a good idea), you can count on us to find the most accurate sources whenever we offer a brew that promises a special feature or benefit.

This summer we are releasing a blend we're very excited about. It includes a carefully selected mix of adaptogenic mushrooms and herbal blends, all approved by a third-party lab we consulted to make sure we got the amounts just right. The specialty is called Mind Flayer, but don't let that get you too nervous. This tea helps strike down fatigue, encourage better memory, and provide natural fuel for those hot days when it's hard to get going. We’re also continuing our line of adaptogenic coffee alternative, which includes reishi mushrooms, lion's mane, and other “shrooms” that are supported by current studies to help brains become more resilient and balanced.

How to Pick the Best Summer Tea for Your Event

Now that it's June, people are celebrating with weddings, summer festivals, musical shows, and birthday parties (we got you, Cancers and Geminis). We recommend light and bright teas such as our green and white blends that include notes of fruit and honey and vanilla. Brew them cold to keep your guests quenched and your maid of honor from fainting in the aisle. If you want to sweeten the drink, try adding some elderberry syrup or some of our wildflower honey.

Stay Wild Box Subscription

You asked and we're finally delivering. It only took us about two years to get the resources and the logistics settled. Our monthly subscription box will include our seasonal teas, samples from future teas that have not been released yet, small batches of local honey, and some artisan goodies from the local farms and crafts people we work with, such as a handcrafted mug, tea stirring spoons, greeting cards, and organic candies and snacks. We’ll be adding more to the list as the subscription service continues and would love to hear feedback from our first subscribers.

We are always trying to improve the services and products we provide and love to hear what is working and what is not. If you're interested in signing up for the subscription right now, you can receive two months free and a third month extra if you can convince a friend to join as well.

Thank You for Supporting Us!

We wish you a happy summer and plenty of magical moments. If you’ve made it this far, enjoy 25% off your next purchase by using the code: SHROOMY when you check out.

Until next our next letter, mind the fae, don't over steep, and remember: we love you.

For many new authors, being published by one of the Big 5 publishers seems like the only way. They want their books in stores, they want the big marketing campaign and the publicity. But the truth is that many traditionally published books do not sell as many copies as you might  think.

Traditionally published authors can expect to go through an arduous process that involves editing, revising, and proofreading their work. Once the manuscript is deemed ready for publication, the agent will submit it to publishers and negotiate a book deal on behalf of the author. The author will work closely with an editor to refine the book even further, and the book will go through multiple rounds of revisions before it is finally published. During this process, the author may also be responsible for promoting the book through events, interviews, and  social media.

The challenges are overwhelming, and yet many people feel becoming an author requires going through a traditional publishing house.

But what if you don’t want to relinquish control over your book?

Traditionally published books give the credibility of being a “real” author, at least among people who don’t understand that self-publishing is a legitimate growing economy with ample room for career growth.

Working with a traditional publishing house means:

• Querying dozens of agents to find one who will fight for you.

• Altering your book to fit the publisher’s formula.

• Waiting years to actually see your book in print and (hopefully) on shelves.

• Minimal control over the marketing and packaging process.

• An upfront payment of around $2,000, and meager royalties (usually 1–5%).

• Being forgotten once the newest hit book comes out.

Unless you’re lucky enough to sign a series contract, all of the long-term marketing will be up to you, and for low return on your investment.

Publishing independently or with a small press can be a great option for authors who want control over their work and the publishing process. Self-publishing allows authors to retain all of the rights to their book and make all the decisions about the editing, design, and marketing. Self-publishing can also be more affordable than traditional publishing; you can spend as much, or as little as your budget allows.

These days, there are also tons of resources out there to help with your process.

Some of the big ones include:

1. Kindlepreneur.com:  A website and resource platform dedicated to helping authors and self-publishers succeed in the world of Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). It provides valuable tips, strategies, and guides on various aspects of  self-publishing, including book marketing, keyword research, cover design, and author branding. The site offers tools and resources to assist authors in optimizing their books for maximum visibility and sales on Amazon.

2. Publisher Rocket:  A powerful software tool designed to help authors with market research and keyword analysis. It allows users to conduct in-depth keyword  research for their book’s genre and category, enabling them to refine their book’s metadata for improved visibility and discoverability on Amazon. Publisher Rocket also provides insights into competitor analysis, Amazon ads, and book sales estimations, helping authors make  informed decisions throughout the self-publishing process.

3. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP):  Amazon’s self-publishing platform that allows authors to publish and  distribute their books in digital (eBook) and print formats. It offers an easy-to-use interface for uploading manuscripts, designing book covers, setting prices, and managing distribution. Through KDP, authors can make their books available on Amazon’s Kindle Store, reaching a global audience. KDP also provides tools and resources for marketing, promotion, and tracking sales performance.

4. IngramSpark: Another self-publishing platform operated by Ingram Content Group, one of the largest book distributors and wholesalers in the world. It enables authors to produce professional-quality print books and eBooks and make them available for sale through various distribution channels.

5. Draft2Digital: A third option for self-publishing. While their print option is still in beta, D2D will distribute your book to many platforms, including KDP, Barnes and Noble, Google Books, Kobo, and others. They also provide a  free eBook format tool that is perfect for writers on a budget.

6. Reedsy: An online marketplace that connects authors with professional freelancers in the publishing industry. It offers a wide range of services,  including editing, proofreading, cover design, formatting, and marketing. Authors can browse through a curated selection of experienced publishing professionals, compare quotes, and hire them for their specific needs. Reedsy aims to streamline the self-publishing process by providing access to quality professionals who can help authors produce high-quality books.

7. Atticus: A formatting software specifically designed for self-published authors. It simplifies the process of formatting manuscripts for eBook and print  publication by providing pre-designed templates and styles that meet  industry standards. Atticus allows authors to import their manuscripts and customize the formatting elements such as font, spacing, headers, and footers. The software helps authors save time and effort by automating the formatting process and ensuring a professional-looking final product.

8. Velum: Another formatting software designed to assist self-published authors in  preparing their manuscripts for publication. It offers a user-friendly interface with features that allow authors to format their manuscripts for various eBook platforms and print-on-demand services. Velum provides templates and customization options for styling, page layout, chapter breaks, and other formatting elements. It aims to simplify the  formatting process and generate high-quality eBook files and print-ready PDFs.

9. Campfire: An online platform that offers a comprehensive suite of tools and services for self-published authors. It includes features for writing, editing, formatting, designing covers, and publishing eBooks and print books.  Campfire also provides marketing and promotional resources to help  authors reach their target audience. The platform aims to provide an all-in-one solution for self-publishing, assisting authors at every  stage of the publishing process and helping them achieve their publishing goals.

10. Scrivener: A popular software application designed specifically for writers. It offers a comprehensive set of tools and features to assist authors in organizing, writing, and editing their manuscripts. Authors can break down their writing into manageable sections, create outlines, and easily rearrange or restructure their work. It provides a  distraction-free writing environment, research organization capabilities, and the ability to export manuscripts into various formats, including eBook and print-ready formats.

Still Not Convinced Self-Publishing is Right For You?

When you are ready to publish your book, there are several options available. You can approach traditional publishers and literary agents, work with a small press that provides one-on-one support, or self-publish your book through various online platforms. Before deciding on a publishing route, it is important to research and understand the advantages and challenges of each option. Traditional publishing typically offers greater distribution and marketing support, but may involve a lengthy and competitive submission process. Self-publishing allows for greater control and faster publication, but requires the author to handle all aspects of the process, including editing and marketing.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your goals and priorities as an author.

Contrary to what many people still believe, there is a massive demand for independently published works that don’t conform to traditional formulas or themes. While many traditionally published authors go back to their  day jobs and struggle to publish again, the world of self-publishing is infinite.

Imagine the feeling of panic that sets in when you dive too deep into the water. First comes the shock that you have overestimated your abilities, and the horrible realization that you might not have what it takes to swim back to the surface. Next comes the awful awareness of the water—a suffocating force—threatening to crush you.

Down here it's quiet and close; the people you were swimming with above just minutes ago seem far away and unreachable. As you struggle to reach the surface, the pain of holding your breath becomes unbearable, the weight against your chest makes  it even more difficult to reach the surface. The light of the sun reflecting on water begins to seem further and further away—too far to reach before your lungs explode.

When you finally emerge from the water, it's with huge gasps and gulps of air and funny looks from your friends. "Where have you been?" They might ask. "You okay?"

You nod, returning to what you were doing before you dove too deep. But the exhausting, life or death battle that took place beneath the water stays with you. You marvel that nobody noticed how close you came to not making it.

Depression: emotional drowning

Many people who suffer from depression fight this battle every day, submerged not in water but in the grasp of a very real, serious illness. The painful feeling of not being able to breathe, the fear that you might not make it to tomorrow, the sense of isolation when nobody realizes how much you're struggling, are all common experiences for a person suffering with depression.

Depression is a widespread illness, affecting around 35 million Americans. Though common, those suffering from the disease often feel as if they are cut off from the rest of the world. Literally trapped by their despair, a depressed person may lose interest in the things they once enjoyed and withdraw emotionally from their loved ones.

Many people also experience anxiety, causing them to be irritable and frustrated. The sufferer may find it difficult to even get out of bed, interfering with their ability to work and maintain relationships. Trouble sleeping, weight loss or gain, substance abuse, physical aching and pain or fatigue and suicidal thoughts are all common symptoms of depression. In extreme cases, the depressed person may become psychotic, experiencing irrational thoughts or delusions, and sometimes hallucinations.

All of these symptoms separate depression from the normal feelings of sadness that most people have at some point or another. If you find yourself feeling tired, sad and hopeless with no sign of relief, and if these experiences are interfering with your ability to enjoy life, please seek help as soon as possible.

Depression is a serious condition that not only affects a person's ability to enjoy life, but if left untreated can wear down their immune system, making it easier to catch other illnesses like colds, flu and heart disease.

If you are one of the millions of people struggling with depression, you’re not alone. We can build a treatment plan customized specifically for you.  We’ll help you find ways of coping with the depression and enjoy life and relationships again.

Call us today and take the first steps toward a happier, healthier life. We’ll help you stay afloat to enjoy many joyful tomorrows.

Is someone in your life relying too heavily on you?

As children, we absorb everything. We come into the world helpless, and only by observing the people around us do we grow and adapt. With help from our parents and siblings, we learn to eat, drink, walk, and speak. 

But the most important thing we learn is how to form bonds with other people. The success of our early relationships is vital to our ability to build positive relationships as adults. If the bond established between a parent and child is toxic, there is a good chance the cycle will repeat itself in adulthood.

When it was originally defined in 1935, co-dependency referred to the destructive relationships that are formed between alcoholics and the people closest to them. The definition has since broadened to describe an emotionally damaging relationship where one person requires constant support and the other struggles to provide it.

Co-dependent individuals are manipulated and controlled by their sick or struggling partner, who could be a friend, spouse, or family member. They may have extreme feelings of low self-confidence, a fear of abandonment, and a desperate need for reassurance that they are wanted. Their value is based on their ability to protect their loved one.

Although they have good intentions, a pathologically co-dependent person’s low self-worth leads them into repeated cycles of relationships with people they try to save or protect. They use these partnerships to validate their own existence. 

The burden of obligation they feel as a chronic caregiver can lead to intense depression, frustration, or even resentment. They might see themselves as victims of the relationship and feel oppressed or unable to escape their circumstances.  

Out of desperation, some co-dependent people will turn to drugs to cope with their emotional pain. Compulsive behaviors such as workaholism and unhealthy sexual activities may also develop. 

There is no universal co-dependent relationship. Numerous combinations of abuse, addictions, compulsions, or other damaging, unhealthy behaviors may occur. But the core feature of a co-dependent relationship is a person who places someone else's needs, desires, and well-being above their own.

Although this behavior may feel fulfilling at first, forsaking your own emotional and physical welfare can have significant, long-term consequences. You may lose your sense of identity and independence, all while dismissing your personal struggles as irrelevant.

If you find that you have difficulty trusting people, that you repeatedly take on responsibility for their actions, if you’re plagued with a sense of guilt and low self-worth, and feel trapped and angry as if you have no control, you may be in a co-dependent relationship. 

Because this behavior is established early in life, it can seem hopeless and impossible to change. But by exploring the childhood experiences which first led to co-dependency, you can begin to understand your current patterns and learn how to build healthier relationships.

Do you see co-dependence in your life?  Reach out today. We’ll help you take the first steps toward freedom and confidence.

We all feel exhausted by relationships sometimes. Taking time alone to relax and reset is healthy. But if you find yourself craving isolation, taking on extra assignments at work, or turning to substances like alcohol as an escape, you may be love avoidant.

Many musicians have built their careers on expressing the hurt and pain they've received from love lost or rejected. Shakespeare’s tragic plays reveal the sinister side of love gone wrong: jealousy, emotional torment, murder, and death. 

And yet we continue to strive for the thing that brings us so much pain. The chance to find genuine connection with others, be it friendship, romance or the bond between a parent and child. We hunger for these connections and yearn to achieve them.

But for some, the pain is too much to bear. When fear of rejection and betrayal overshadows the joy love can bring, you may feel desperate to avoid intimate relationships. 

Many love avoidant people have suffered great losses and pain in life. Terrified of experiencing the same trauma, they take great measures to remain emotionally detached.

You might not actively avoid love itself. A love avoidant person can form relationships, but they resist being vulnerable with their partners. Often times, they’re not even aware of the resistance, instead seeing themselves as simply private or less emotional.

But deep down, their fear of becoming too attached causes them to disconnect when they start getting too close to another person.

In the U.S., we jokingly call it “commitment issues.”

When the love avoidant person does manage  to form a committed relationship, something will still feel wrong or lacking. Their partner, frustrated with the disconnect, may become resentful. Eventually, conflict and tension damage what little intimacy they’ve established.

For the emotionally avoidant, love becomes an obligation. When their partner expresses distress over the lack of emotional intimacy in the relationship, a love avoidant person may become overwhelmed, turning to addictions or infidelity for an outlet.

If it is difficult for you to be emotionally intimate with other people, if you are terrified of commitment, or feel smothered … or love your partner but find yourself compulsively drawing away from them and seeking distraction, you may be love avoidant.

The origin of this behavior is often rooted in traumatic childhood experiences which caused significant emotional damage. Almost always, the cycle of avoidance can be traced back to a destructive relationship with a parent.

Through our program, you can learn to recognize how your early relationships hurt you. By realizing how the pattern of avoidance began, you can put a stop to the destructive cycle that has robbed you of fulfillment.

It may seem impossible right now, but you can learn to trust and accept love.

True vulnerability is a call away. We’ll help you take your life back.

Hiking, Camping, and River Views: Your Perfect NJ Getaway

Exhausted by city traffic and crowded streets? Discover old-growth forest and peaceful waters, just a short trip away from the New York Metropolitan area. Your weekend escape to the Garden State awaits with these two well-loved destinations.

Hacklebarney State Park has been called the most beautiful park in New Jersey, and it’s easy to see why. With ancient trees towering overhead, five miles of trails winding through rocky terrain, and sweeping views of the Black River, it’s an adventurer’s dream. The rugged trail will challenge skilled hikers, and there are easier routes for those who prefer a gentler pace. Bring your fishing pole if you’d like to cast a line in the river, but keep your eyes open for black bears!

After a day on the trails, head less than 30 minutes to Spruce Run Recreation Area. Home to the third largest reservoir in the state, it offers 1,290 acres of water and 15 miles of shoreline. You can pitch your tent at the campground, spend the afternoon fishing or boating, and wake up to the sun rising over the reservoir. If riding the waters isn’t your vibe, you can view nesting songbirds and migratory waterfowl at the wildlife observation blind right near the boat launch.

Explore the Wild Side of the Garden State

Hacklebarney and Spruce Run are perfect getaways for nature-lovers, whether you’re visiting for the first time or a long-time resident looking for a new experience. Learn why New Jersey is dubbed the Garden State by immersing yourself in unforgettable green paradise. Camping at Spruce Run is only available from April 1st through October 31st, so don’t hesitate. Adventure is waiting.