THE PHILOSOPHY

Strength isn’t
always loud.

“Lian does not rush. She does not lead from the front. Instead, she shows where the ground will hold.”

Inspired by the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse, Lian the Pony invites children to slow down, notice their own inner steadiness, and trust their steps forward even when the path feels new.

Paired with her lyrical storybook, The Path That Held, this toolkit is a gentle companion for growth, reflection, and quiet connection.

Lian the Pony Plush

Inside The Path That Held

A lyrical journey through lantern-lit streets, quiet paths, and the kind of strength that moves forward with care.

Lantern-lit streets

Lanterns swayed above narrow streets, their light guiding the way.

Quiet winter path

Her hooves met the stone without sound steady and sure.

Child walking with Lian

They did not hurry. They trusted each step as it came.

Quiet resting moment

The path did not ask for speed only presence.

See the StoryTime ToolKit
THE MEANING

Rooted in the Lunar New Year.
Meaningful all year long.

Lian’s story is inspired by the Lunar New Year a time of reflection, renewal, and steady forward movement.

Her name comes from the lotus, a symbol often associated with patience, resilience, and growth that unfolds in its own time.

Like the lotus rising through still water, Lian represents confidence built quietly step by step, without hurry.

While rooted in Lunar New Year traditions and the Year of the Horse, Lian’s message is timeless offering guidance and reassurance long after the season has passed.

Lian story symbolism

What’s Inside the Lian the Pony StoryTime ToolKit™

Each piece is designed to work together supporting calm moments, emotional connection, and meaningful storytelling.

The
Lian the Pony
StoryTime ToolKit™
Lian Plush Pal Lian Plush Pal Steady comfort and companionship
The Path That Held Book The Path That Held Lyrical storybook about quiet strength
Plush Heart Plush Heart To wish, tuck, and bond
Red Blessing Envelope Red Blessing Envelope Lunar New Year keepsake
Promise Certificate Promise Certificate Supports identity & attachment
Eco Friendly Fill Eco-Friendly Fill Mindful, soft, sustainable
Kaitlin B. Malaspina, Founder

A Note from the Founder

“Lian was created as a reminder that strength doesn’t always need to be loud. Sometimes it’s found in moving slowly, trusting the ground beneath us, and walking gently alongside those we love.”
Kaitlin B. Malaspina Founder & Creator

F.A.Q

What age is the Lian the Pony StoryTime ToolKit™ best for?

The StoryTime ToolKit™ is recommended for children ages 3–10.

Younger children enjoy the plush companion and simple storytelling moments, while older children engage more deeply with the themes of reflection, patience, and emotional awareness. Many families also share the story together across ages.

What makes this kit different from a regular plush or storybook?

This is not just a toy or a book it’s a guided storytelling experience.

Each element in the kit is intentionally designed to work together, encouraging calm moments, emotional connection, and meaningful conversations between children and caregivers.

Is this tied only to Lunar New Year, or can it be used year-round?

While inspired by Lunar New Year traditions, the story and symbolism are timeless.

Themes like renewal, steadiness, trust, and quiet strength make the toolkit meaningful throughout the year not just during the holiday season.

Is the StoryTime ToolKit™ safe for young children?

Yes. The plush and materials are designed with children in mind and are made for gentle, everyday use.

The plush fill is eco-friendly and soft, and all components are intended for supervised play and shared reading experiences.

Is this a good gift if I don’t know the child very well?

Absolutely.

The StoryTime ToolKit™ is a thoughtful, meaningful gift that doesn’t require prior familiarity with the child’s interests. It’s especially popular as a Lunar New Year gift, birthday gift, or keepsake for families who value storytelling and emotional growth.

What’s included in the StoryTime ToolKit™?

Each kit includes:

  • Lian the Pony Plush Pal (16”)
  • The Path That Held lyrical storybook
  • Plush Heart for wishes and emotional bonding
  • Red Blessing Envelope, inspired by Lunar New Year traditions
  • Plush Pal Promise Certificate
  • Eco-friendly, mindful fill

    All pieces are designed to work together as a complete storytelling experience.

A Meaningful Gift for Quiet Moments

Lian the Pony StoryTime ToolKit™ is an invitation to slow down to share a story, hold a moment, and walk gently forward together.

Whether given for Lunar New Year or any time of renewal, this is a gift designed to be remembered, not rushed.