We're reminiscing about niche educational retail chains of our youth, making a case for pecans, and learning the rules of a hot girl walk (

Our research on Zany Brainy (which now has a nostalgic merch project) revived our affection for Sanrio, Klutz, Creativity for Kids, and Brain Quest.

Enter the The Nature Company v. Natural Wonders discourse via this YouTube video. Also, Buzzfeed's got a zesty take on a bunch o' bygone mall stores.

Onto pecans, the nut's nut. For pies, we rec the recipe in Stars Desserts by Emily Luchetti…and the one on the back of the Karo corn syrup bottle. Also for your consideration: Food52's flourless pecan cake, Smitten Kitchen's peach and pecan sandy crumble, NYT Cooking wok-fried asparagus and walnuts (subbing pecans), and Claire's breakfast combo of pecans + Cocojune yogurt + berries.

The hot girl walk comes to us via TikTok user Mia, @exactlyliketheothergirls. And walk, don't run, to the ample NYT walking coverage: "The Next Walk You Take Could Change Your Life," "A Little Motivation to Take a Walk," and "Whatever the Problem, It's Probably Solved by Walking."

The NY State bottle bill, fascinating stuff that we learned about from Rothy's. Related: The Guppyfriend washing bags to keep microplastics out of waterways.

Share your Zany Brainy memories with us at 833-632-5463, [email protected], or @athingortwohq—or join our Geneva! For more recommendations, try out a Secret Menu membership.

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