Maine-ly Home

Being a Locavore

2011-12-21T06:45:00.000-08:00

I'm a little behind in sharing this. But, hey, better late than never?

I'm really proud of living in a place where eating local is possible. I can't claim to be a true-all-the-time-locavore -- but, I try as much as possible to eat things that are grown, raised or processed/packaged here in Maine. I like knowing where our food is coming from -- and, moreover, I like knowing that I'm supporting local folks and not buying food that is trucked (or flown) all over the world. All that said, I'm guilty of periodically buying strawberries in January (and, around here you don't see strawberries until late June).

At Thanksgiving I try really hard to have a totally local thanksgiving. I get a little nuts about it -- tracking down locally milled flour and all -- but when you sit down in front of a table of local food it feels totally worth it. And, man, was it all delicious.

The menu from our meal is posted in the photo above. But, thought you might enjoy a list of sources.

Turkey with Sage (from our garden) from Maine-ly Poultry
My Mother-in-law's Stuffing Made with Local Breads from Borealis Bread
Brussel Sprouts from Squire Tarbox Farm; Sauteed with Local Bacon from Cornerstone Farm
Delicata Squash and Mashed Kennebec Potatoes from Goransan's Farm
Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce Made from Cranberries from Ricker Hill Orchards
Butter and Cream from Smiling Hill Farm
Pumpkin Rolls Made from One Pie Pumpkin (I know it seems odd that I wouldn't use an actual pumpkin - since I even had one...but, well, I didn't have time.)
Celery, Onions, Carrots (for stuffing, crudite and to serve as our roasting rack) from Goransan's Farm.
Pies made by local family :)

Crafty Wonderfulness From My Sister

2011-12-20T05:41:00.000-08:00

My sister is neither crafty nor a blog reader. Just ask her. In fact, I'm not sure she's ever read my blog. (Can you imagine?) But, she sent me a dozen pictures of her recent holiday decor demanding I share it with Mainelyhome readers. Inspired by a costly wire lit Christmas tree at a nearby gardening shop, my sister took a wire tomato tower and draped lights over and topped with a bow. And, I must say, it looks darn cute, don't you think?

I'm Blaming it on the Advent Calendar Incident

2011-12-19T06:08:00.000-08:00

It's December 18th....

I haven't unwrapped a single stick of butter (and I bought pounds in anticipation of the usual one zillion holiday cookies we usually bake and share with friends) to make a single holiday cookie.
I haven't addressed a single holiday card.
I haven't wrapped a gift. After all, how could I? I don't have them yet.
I haven't made a single gift and usually I pride myself on making at least some of the gifts we give.
I/we haven't decorated our house one bit.
I haven't organized a single social event for the season.

I've actually been rather sad about this. It's not that I get caught up in the commercial side of Christmas, but it's that I love the traditions I've helped our family create. Decorating our pretty old house - inside and out. Baking up a storm to share with others. Sharing love through photos and news in the mail. Handmade wonderfulness. Pretty packages with surprises.

But, there's a whole lot working against me this year. I'm going to try to blame it on the advent calendar incident. Truth is, we just are exhausted. And busy. A new job. Work travel. A play with a heavy rehearsal and performance schedule. And a ridiculous amount of sickness in our little family.

Given all of this (and an attempt to not beat myself up), I'm trying really hard to focus on what's really important this season. And, it turns out that my 7 year old is helping me keep focused.

The other day amidst a fever and strep throat and packing for a business trip, I told her that I was feeling sad that we hadn't done our usual things...our usual baking, crafting and decorating, etc. She listened really carefully to me and then looked at me and said, "Mom, really all we need is a tree, and we have one."

What do I want for Christmas? I already got it. She is a gift.

The Advent Calendar Incident

2011-12-15T12:55:00.000-08:00

Every year I give great thought to advent "calendars" for my family. (I blame it on my mother. She always gave us advent calendars of some sort.)

One year it was a small tree with little ornaments to open and hang each day (my Nana assembled one like this for me when I was little).

One year it was 25 mini galvanized buckets each with a treasure, treat or note.

One year it was a candle that you burn down a little every day until Christmas.

This year my seven year old asked if we could do something different--"like one of those paper ones other people get, sometimes with chocolate in them" (I think she recalled the one her Dad gave her a recent year after returning from Germany--and it was filled with delicious German chocolate.).

I was a little sad. A little disappointed. And, well, frankly a lot relieved. You see, this is an exceptionally busy holiday season given the fact that I've started a new job that involves more hours and travel. One of those pre-made paper ones -- sure!

I left the calendars for the girls to open on the 1st after school. They were waiting for them with their sitter.

When I got home, my 7 year old said with a bit of nastiness in her voice, "Mom, I opened up all the doors."

I stood in shock.

I expected that of the 2 year old, but was shocked that my older, more mature, more patient daughter would do that. I tried really hard to just let it go. Or, maybe I should say I'm still trying (after all I've just written about it on the 15th day of December...), to let it go.

I think this will, however, be the last year of paper advent calendars -- it clearly didn't work for us.

Nana's Chair

2011-12-06T18:29:00.000-08:00

My mom told me I should feel terrible. (That's not the first time she's said that to me, but that's another story.) I have left people hanging about Nana's Chair. I argued that no one is even paying attention. And, I've been really, really busy with a new job and lots of associated transitions.

But, then the other day a Maine-ly Home follower actually asked me if I'd gotten it back. (You can read all about it here.)

So, IF you having been waiting -- or even worrying -- I am sincerely sorry. But, I'm happy to report that the newly fashioned Nana chair is back home -- and, although it got the cold shoulder for a day or two, it is being much loved, new fabric and all.

What do you think?

What We Say

2011-11-30T18:45:00.000-08:00

Our children echo us. I am reminded of this time and time again and yet I'm always surprised. Sometimes it's big profound statements, other times not so much. Sometimes just plain funny.

Baby (now toddler) R, as I was picking her up the other day, said, "I getting so heavy."

:)

Dreaming of a Snow Globe Christmas (Thanks Sundance)

2011-11-28T14:12:00.000-08:00

{Photo via Sundance}

If you've followed me for a while now, you know that last year we had some snowglobe magic


{Photo via MainelyHome December 2010}

and some snowglobe tragedy.

{Photo via MainelyHome December 2010}

I like to focus on the magic -- and, when you can combine that with my MasonJarLove, well, it's super magical.

And, Sundance has done just that.

Mason-Jar-Snow-Globe-Magic.

Sigh.

Pumpkin with a Purpose

2011-11-20T18:57:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, I've been absent. Lots of transitions going on over here. But, I'm back (I think).

I've been holding onto this photo for a few weeks now - eager to share. It makes me really happy. A friend of my mother's (and, a reader of Maine-ly Home, I'm told!) gave her this lovely floral piece for her birthday. It's just so happy I can't stand it.

Letting Go

2011-10-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

Shortly after my very dear Nana died two and a half years ago, I indicated to my mother that if no one had their eyes set on her wing chair, I would love to have it.

I know what you are thinking. A rose floral wingchair. Why on earth would I want such a thing? It's about as old lady as you can get.

But, I really did want it.

First of all, I have grown up in an extended family of wingchairs. Or, rather, an extended family who has (and values) wingchairs. For me, they are a symbol of family and of comfort-- even though I would never have thought a wing chair was my style.

But, more importantly, my nana's wing chair symbolized her to me. At least in recent years, when she wasn't buzzing about, it's where she was. And, when she was sitting in that chair - whether reading, catching a nap, or talking with a visitor, she always looked as comfortable as can be.

I remember in the last few days of her life, her sitting in that chair, predicting that my baby was going to be born on her mother's birthday--she just knew it. It was funny, she was so connected to this pregnancy - maybe because I saw her so much during it. But, it definitely struck me. She was so interested in it - offering thoughts and predictions. Three months after my Nana died, my baby was born on HER birthday.

So, I got the chair. And, much to my husband's shagrin, I insisted that we put it in the antique bay window in our dining room. Odd, I know. But, it's this wonderful sun-filled nook where I knew I could sit and nurse one baby while watching the other frolick outside. That was my vision. After I re-upholstered it, of course. I can't stand rose floral patterns.

Two years later, Nana Chair (yup, that's what we call it) has become a very significant piece of our life. I have nursed a zillion times in that chair. We have all read many a book there. We have all snoozed there. We have all snuggled there. We all seek out THAT chair.

All along I have still intended to reupholster it. A zillion fabric swatches have come home and been rejected. I even purchased 7 yards of fabric that I thought was perfect only to cry when it arrived. Finally, I found a fabric that most of us liked -- and, to me, would bring this wing chair to modern life with a little spunk - just like Nana.

The day the chair was hauled away, my eldest would hardly speak to me. My two year old cried, "Nana chair no go." And for the weeks to follow that space seemed so empty. While I was so certain that I wanted to change that chair, I couldn't help but wonder each day as I stared at the empty space whether everyone's anguish about reupholstering it meant something. I wondered if I had, in fact, taken the magic out of the chair.

Stay tuned.

The Harvest.

2011-10-11T14:27:00.000-07:00

After much re-scheduling, we finally carved out time for our potato harvest. For those of you who know me - and where I live - you are probably laughing. I live on less than a quarter of an acre, much of which is shaded. But, I can assure you that we (And by "we" I mean primarily my husband, though I certainly help and give counsel.) take advantage of every square inch of garden-able space. Realistically, this translates into an herb garden, two self-built 8 foot by 4 foot raised beds, and a whole lot of empty pickle buckets that can be moved around as the sun shifts. (While we love many aspects of our in-town life, we do dream often of a farm. And, I'm guessing our neighbors might also wish we'd find one.)

This year, to stretch our gardening space a little further, I suggested we try growing potatoes in bags. Yes, bags. I'd heard you could do this - and, well, we have lots of those reusable Trader Joes and Whole Foods bags, so why not give it a whirl. (Besides, if it succeeded, it could quite possibly end our relationship-long argument about where the best potatoes come from - Maine or Idaho.).

So, we did it. We procured a couple of seed potatoes, two reusable bags, and organic soil. We poked some drainage holes in the bottom of the bags and filled with soil and the seed potatoes. And, we waited.

And, then there was some signs of hope.

And, further signs of hope.

But, only time would tell if there were actually any potatoes in the bag.

At last, it was harvest time. Nervously, we began to dig.

And, then we struck gold. Our first potato.

And, another!

Honestly, we were like kids at Christmas with each potato found. The full harvest amounted to 15 of the most beautiful potatoes ever. Suffice it to say, they'll be more bags of potatoes scattered about our yard next year.

By the way, all though we can't say yet, I think the best potatoes are grown in Maine. :)

Ten Simple Things

2011-10-05T06:58:00.000-07:00

Okay, I just borrowed some inspiration from Soule Mama. (She always has good ideas.) As you might have noticed, my blogging posts have been few and far between. I'm not gone - I'm just out of sync - and catching up on many things. So, stopping and thinking and listing ten simple things I'm grateful for seems like just the thing I need.

Ten Simple Things

Carefree toddler singing
Unexpected professional opportunities
Rainboots
Sunshine after much rain
An awesome 9 year old friend who told me he wants to be a Senator
Puddle splashing that forces a change of clothes before 8 a.m.
Local honey from a friend's farm
The prospect of apple picking on my mind
The rediscovery of tea
Hard, but productive conversations

The Fair.

2011-09-26T08:38:00.000-07:00

It's Fay-eh (yea, that's how we say it here) time in Maine. And, my absolute favorite fair (Maine-ly Home followers and friends are likely tired of hearing this) is the Common Ground Fair.

I look forward to the Common Ground Fair every year. It's my mecca.

This year, there were lots of things working against my attempt to make the annual journey. We had just returned from a very long journey to a wonderful family wedding in Vermont. My husband (who loves The Fair almost as much as me) was overseas. I was not-quite-recovering from a flu/virus and battling a 3-day migraine. And, yet, amidst all that, I was still thinking of making the long journey with my two little girls. It's possible I was delirious from fever.

But, not going really isn't an option. For one thing, like I said, I look forward to it all year long. And, in addition, I collect (and display in our kitchen) the beautiful fair poster from each year that we go to the Fair. That's right, in addition to missing on all the Fair's goodness, if I didn't go, I wouldn't be able to get this year's poster. And, this year's poster featured mason jars (and, we all know about my passion for mason jars, right?). Enough said?

Fortunately (and, quite possibly out of guilt), my mom decided to take the journey with us (Thank you, Mom.).

It was a beautiful (albeit a little bit of a scorcher) day. The usual Common Ground Fair happiness abound (except quite possibly from my two little travel companions who were uncharacteristically grumpy.). Delicious (and organic) food everywhere you turned. Handcrafted wonders in exhibit tent after exhibit tent. Prized veggies on display. Fiddles, fiddles, fiddles! And, I'm certain, lots of interesting and educational talks, demos, etc. - but, well, once again, that wasn't on the to-do list of my little companions.

My brother-in-law (and sister, and niece and nephew) made the journey this year. First time in more than a decade. My brother-in-law was VERY excited about going and when we spotted him, he had only arrived moments ago (but had already grabbed some yummy food) and declared, "I'm so happy to be here." I smiled, "Take off your shoes and stay awhile." We all laughed. A little Common Ground Fair humor (it is the only fair I know of where a good portion of the attendees are actually barefoot).

The busy-factor kept me from taking my usual hundreds of photos, but, I did snap a few. Will I see you at The Fair next year?

Studying the Program

Cousins watching the border collie demos.

Vegetable-dyed yarn. Is it wrong to get so excited about fiber?

Squash anyone?

Miss R's first face painting!

The Sweet Annie tradition. Super fragrant herb/flower that signifies The Fair...and seen most often in makeshift head wreaths.

Catching some welcome shade (do you see the underlying crabbiness I mentioned?) under a picnic table.

I Eat Maine-ly Lobster?

2011-08-30T16:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, I just found out OPI has a brand new color that I just have to love because of the name. (Who has the awesome job of naming colors?). I Eat Maine-ly Lobster. Yup, that's the color. Cute name, huh? It's kind of an orangey-pinky-red...like a cooked lobster. :)

Burlap Love.

2011-08-29T13:11:00.000-07:00

Is it possible to love burlap?

Because I do.

Especially when it is in the form of banners. For months now, I've been totally smitten with burlap banners. It started with purchasing one for our family to use to decorate our dining room when celebrating birthdays. (Not surprisingly, it says Happy Birthday. And, already, after just a few months of use, my girls eagerly demand we hang it when celebrating.). Now, I'm slowing collecting others--there are a lot of possibilities as you might imagine. Easter. Christmas. Thanksgiving (I'm thinking "Gratitude").

And, I'm also foisting them on friends and family. My niece, for example, was required to hang one at her graduation party in school colors (hers said "Celebrate!"). And, my dear cousin got one to celebrate her new love. Check it out.

{photographer Kate Rose}

I'm pretty sure I could make these...but, why? So many wonderful Etsy folks do it so well. Here are two of my favorite Etsy banner makers Funkyshique and Expressions in Design.

{This Moment}

2011-08-26T05:45:00.000-07:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see. Inspired by SouleMama.

Capturing the Moment (s): Soggy Dog Designs

2011-08-23T18:45:00.000-07:00

It won't be a surprise to those who know me -- or followers of Maine-ly Home -- that I love photographs. I love to take them. I love to see them.

My passion for photography runs deep. Influenced by my two grandfathers and my dear aunt who were never without their cameras, I learned to appreciate the art of photography at a young age. While other kids were busy saving their money for electronics or baseball cards, I was stashing cash, penny by penny, to buy my first 35mm film camera with multiple lenses (to replace the snap and shoot that took 110 film cartridges!). For decades, that camera was with me. Capturing the moments of life in middle school, high school, college and my travels around the world. After the birth of our first child, the demand for instant photographs became too much to handle (read: grandparents and family from afar needed photos all the time and right away). With great hesitation, we put that camera aside and moved to the digital world. While I love our digital Nikon SLR beyond words, I still hold film nearest and dearest to my heart.

I am rarely ever without camera. Even my husband, who shares a love for photography (we actually each brought darkroom equipment into this marriage!), gets a bit annoyed. I'll admit, sometimes it's my social crutch. And, I love the my niece, for example, counts on me to photograph those special moments (I'm her paparazzi). But, mostly, it's that I think I see the world -- I remember the moments - as I see them behind the lens.

Well, just a few days ago, I went to the beach with a friend and our five girls. I purposely left my camera behind (I didn't think I could manage it with a toddler and the sand.) And, boy, I'm glad I did. For once, I was real-time, while my beach companion and friend (a professional photographer), captured those moments. I'm not a big fan of staged photos, unless of course you have the gift (as Wendy does) of making the staged look candid. But, on this overcast beach day, there was no staging. It was pure candid bliss. And, Wendy captured our girls in their beach day glory. Check out her work -- and think about booking a shoot with Soggy Dog Designs. May I suggest the beach as a backdrop?

Magic Nearby

2011-08-23T13:13:00.000-07:00

I just so happen to live just downriver from Merrymeeting Bay -- a natural wonder of sorts. This large freshwater tidal bay--located some 17 miles from the ocean--is quite unique. Geologically an inland delta -- and biologically a tidal riverine - not a traditional bay at all. Sorta more like an estuary, except it fresh water. This place - where six rivers flow - has large tides (averaging 5 feet) and is home to a large population of bald eagles and migratory birds as well as migratory fish including endangered Atlantic salmon and sturgeon.

At any tide Merrymeeting Bay is beautiful -- but I just discovered (thanks to my husband who spends many an hour exploring Merrymeeting Bay by boat and kayak) that low tide holds paradise -- and it is a local secret.

You will find very little written about it, but trust me it is magic.

Twice a day, low tide reveals fine white sand and warm water. Seriously. Like clockwork as the tide lowers, locals in on the secret, beach their boats and enjoy a bit of paradise. Sun. San. And, warm swimming. All while viewing bald eagles, sturgeon jumping and more.

Then, as high tide makes its way, the beach disappears.

Sand castles and footprints washed away.

Magic.

Here's a link to a wonderful book about Merrymeeting Bay.

A Back to School Giveaway to Chase Away the Back to School Blues

2011-08-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

Last year at just about this time, I had hit what I labeled the Back to School Blues. A sad realization (amidst some longing for routine) that summer was nearing its end and my daughter would be back to school. Sure, I won't have to juggle lack of childcare and work or feel crabby about the state of affairs around the house, but I'll also have to put away that summer-fun-do list. I'll have to concede that there many things on that list - despite a very fun summer - that will not happen. Sigh.

With the onset of Back to School Blues, I also feel this urgency to get things organized -- to start off the school year on the right foot. So, I'll need to get my thoughts together on this. But, in the meantime, my spirits were lifted this a.m. when I saw this terrific Back to School Giveaway from Imagine Childhood. The Giveaway is for $75 towards merchandise for you AND a friend. How delicious.

Log onto today to enter. And, if you win, remember, I'm your friend. :)

S'More from Maine-ly Home

2011-08-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how three plus weeks have past since my last post -- a sign of the BUSY times in my life these days. Juggling kids, work and summer fun/travel.

But, having just printed out a book version of Maine-ly Home's year one (I used Blurb and am super-pleased with results), I'm re-inspired to keep blogging. It is so fun to look back, even while moving forward :) And, I think my girls might even appreciate this one day -- especially since I have failed in the baby book keeping (which my 7 year old reminded me of).

Our summer has been busy with lots of fun things, including lots of S'Mores. (Remember, August 10th marked National S'More Day -- you can always rely on Maine-ly Home to keep you appraised of such important events.).

Yea, I even let my two year old in on the sugary action.What gooey-ness has been on your summer itinerary?

Piggy Polish: Now Your Toes Can Really Dance!

2011-07-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

Generally speaking, I'm sort-a an au natural kinda gal. I dress simply. I don't wear a lot of make-up. Even my jewelry is more or less pretty simple (except for the many awesome handmade earrings that my 7 year old makes...).

But, I love painted toes.

You'll never see me get a manicure -- it interferes with all the dirt, dough and art supplies that usually cover my hands.

But, a pedicure - yes, indeed.

The one thing that has never set well with me (though truth be told, this has not held me back) is the idea of putting such horribly chemical-ly stuff on my toes. Still, I do it.

Now, however, I can do it with a whole lot less guilt (and better health) thanks to Piggy Polish. Piggy Polish is DBP, Toluene or Formaldehyde free! And, it comes in a zillion fabulously wonderful colors. It's $9 a bottle -- but, hey, our toes are worth it.

Circus Smirkus, Yes!

2011-07-12T06:34:00.000-07:00

{photo via Trouper Parent's Flickr photos}

Summer scheduling. It's a juggle for working parents, for sure. Who knew?

We finally, I think, more or less figured it out. No comments, please, on the fact that it's mid-July.

We even planned a vacation. For two self-employed people, this is a huge deal. I'm pretty darn excited.

But, then, just after the airline tickets were purchased I had a moment of panic. We'd scheduled this vacation right through the local Circus Smirkus performances. Panic. I know, I know. It seems silly to be so obsessed about a circus. But, this is no ordinary circus. [I encourage you to read this post to see just how significant Circus Smirkus is to me.]

But, I was wrong. Oh, how I love it when I'm wrong! We'll be here for Circus Smirkus.

If you are in the northeast, be sure to check out the upcoming schedule to see if there's a performance near you.

Strawberries, Strawberries, Strawberries!

2011-07-06T07:26:00.000-07:00

Late June into the first few days (or maybe a week or so into July depending on the Spring) strawberry season hits Maine. And, oh how delicious it is! I'm not sure what I like more, the experience of picking them or eating them in their various forms. Jam. Shortcake. Blended. Straight up.

Of course, like many things in Maine (except for winter), the season is short-lived and Maine-rs expend a lot of energy trying to preserve this summer goodness to enjoy all year long. I, however, have never canned a thing. I'm totally intimidated by it. I really want to try it - and I think this year might be the year.

On Sunday, the four of us set out to pick strawberries. And, man was the pickin' good. In less than 45 minutes we had picked 16 pounds of some of the most beautiful berries ever. So, while I try to get my nerve up to can, I've already put half of these strawberries to use. I've made six pints of freezer jam (this is SO easy -- so do it!). I've frozen berries for smoothies. I've made shortcake for 20.

We had PBJ sandwiches today with freshly made jam today -- and, it was wonderful. But, I'm still thinking about the wonderful time we had picking.

All Before Noon the Fourth of July

2011-07-05T07:59:00.000-07:00

A snapshot of a classic Fourth of July morning in New England?


Uncle Sam Leads the Neighborhood Parade

Bicyclists in the Parade (Note for future: Crepe paper and humidity don't mix.)

Miss Grumpy on Her Float


Proud Cyclist - Her First Time Cycling in a Parade


King of the Parade


Worn Out, But Taking it All In

The Line Up

The Littlest Sack Racer Tumbles

Lollipop Race: Score!

Practicing for Water Balloon Toss

Gearing up for the Three Legged Race. The leg length discrepancy is, as guessed, a handicap.

Tug O War Complete with Motivating Fire Hose

Young Winners and

Older Winners

Going home for a nap...winnings and all.

Weekend Egg Toss Restores Faith in Humankind

2011-07-05T07:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's not that I don't have faith in humankind. I do. I really do. But, sometimes it seems we live in a world that is increasingly competitive, divided and, well, self-focused. This weekend at my Mom's neighborhood fourth of July festivities, my faith was restored.

Picture this, if you will. A neighborhood of families engaged in the annual fourth of July field games. Sack races. Balloon toss. Egg Toss. Tug o war. Some of the games kindly group competitions by age --giving those young and inexperienced (and perhaps the elderly and over-experienced) a chance. But, the egg toss is an exception. It is a a generation-wide competition. And, as far as I can tell in the couple of years I've been going to this gathering--it's super competitive. I think families have held winning titles for generations. This year, titles -- and, perhaps some pride - cast aside.

As the gap between tossers widened, my daughter and her cousin (one year her elder-visiting from Maui) kept tossing. Their tosses (particularly my daughter's) came no where near they were supposed to reach. But, each cousin ran to whereever the egg would drop and roll and pick it up and return to their spot. The judges and the fewer and fewer remaining contestants gracefully ignored the fact that the girls, by all standards, should have been disqualified many tosses before. As I sat in awe, admiration and amusement from the sidelines, I wondered what inspired the competitors to toss the rules aside. Was it the awe of the fact that the egg that repeatedly dropped and bounced never broke? Or, was it the determination (and pride) of two little girls? Whatever it was, it was a beautiful, beautiful thing.

The girls took home first place ribbons for the egg toss -- and, quite honestly, I am not sure I've ever seen two little girls quite so proud.

Thank you to all those Wildwood players and judges for your grace -- and to that chicken who laid one amazingly strong egg.

Divine Giveaway

2011-06-22T04:53:00.000-07:00

If you are a Maine-ly Home follower, you already know I'm a huge fan of Divine Twine and Whisker Graphics. If you aren't a regular, check out this post, or this post.

Divine Twine comes in yummy colors and can be used in one zillion ways. Become a follower of Whitney's blog and you'll how lots of people are putting Divine Twine to use.

Right now, there's an awesome giveaway for some aqua blue Divine Twine. Enter the giveaway.

Another Awesome Giveaway

2011-06-21T05:47:00.000-07:00

Okay, I promise, I'm not becoming a blog just posting about other blog/site giveaways -- but, when the giveaways are this good, I can't resist.

The Waldorf Shop has re-launched its site and in celebration, has lots of great giveaways, including felt from my favorite felt source, A Child's Dream. Check it out!

Oh, Hey, It's Summer!

2011-06-21T04:48:00.000-07:00

{photo via my mom}

Today marks the official first day of Summer. And, here in Maine, the weather forecast promises a real summer day. Yahoo!

Unfortunately, I'll be glued to by computer working for much of the day.

But, I still plan to enjoy a bit of summer with my girls before the day is done. We'll eat an early dinner outside before heading to a concert at the town gazebo. And, maybe, just maybe, if all goes well, we'll walk by the new, totally awesome in-town ice cream shop.

Signs of Early Summer in Maine:

Fields of lupine appear everywhere.
Sea-side lobster shacks open for business.
People eat outside all the time. (Wander through our town in the evening and just take a whiff of the awesome grilling smells and listen to the laughter - mostly - of families enjoying a meal outside.)
Skunks appear. (I am generally a very tolerant person. But, I truly hate skunks. I have major issues with skunks. Just ask my husband or my mother.)
1 in 3 (I'm guessing here) cars either has a boat trailed behind or a kayak or canoe pinned to the top.
There are a lot of people "from away" around. (Many years ago, my mom and dad instituted --- after a summer of houseguests nearly every week of the summer -- a rule that no one could come visit in the summer, unless they also came at some point in the winter.)
People are busily working on their houses and their yards.
Strawberries are starting to appear.
Farmer's markets are humming with excitement.
Rather than asking a friend or neighbor "how are you?" you ask, "how's the garden coming along?"

What does summer look like in your neck of the woods?

This Place Matters - Please Vote

2011-06-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

{photo via here}

I happen to live in a fantastic little town (how many times have I said this?) where great efforts have been poured into preserving the amazing historic structures that surround us. Like many people in this town, I live in a historic home that is 170+ years old. And, while there are days when I'd love to swap in this old beast for a newbie, most of the time I relish the opportunity to live in a piece of history. There is something very grounding about living in a place that has stood the test of time.

Anyhow, one of our town's buildings, the Winter Street Center (formerly the Winter Street Congregational Church - this building now serves as a building for events) has been selected as one of the 100 historic preservation projects competing in the "This Place Matters Community Challenge" sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. And, WE (anyone online!) can help make sure that this building wins - and receives a price of either $5,000, $10,000 or $25,000. This money is needed to make important restorations.

EVERY VOTE COUNTS! This place is the only place in Maine in the contest. Others have many more people right in their area. We need to get people from all over to help -- so spread the word!

Here's what you need to do: it only takes a few seconds!

1. Click here http://tinyurl.com/687rqmu

2. On the right in the blue box click on 'Register or Get a Password Reminder'

3. Enter your email and zip code and press submit

4. (here's the BIG tip) hit your back button 3x and you can vote right there!

Oh How I Need This. What An Awesome Giveaway.

2011-05-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

I try really hard not to buy a lot of baby/kid gear. I don't have the room; I hate plastic; and quite frankly the amount of use hardly ever warrants the expense. But, THIS looks like it would make all the difference in my life. My littlest peanut is an adventurer and she loves to climb. And, so far, there is very little she hasn't succeeded in scaling. A couple of our favorite little friends nicknamed her Indiana Rose. She just loves to be part of the action, especially in the kitchen. And, well, she's tiny. Very tiny. So, this would just be awesome. Well, today, there's a great giveaway for one of these over at LivingCrafts. Check it out!

Why Didn't I think of That? The Lobster Lovers Dream Come True.

2011-05-17T06:50:00.000-07:00

{photo via here}

I'm fairly certain that those of you who aren't regular lobster eaters will not find this interesting. But, if you are a lobster lover, well, your gonna love this.

How often have you sat, hands all covered with gook from de-shelling your lobster, ready to devour the goodness, only to look down at your lobster virtually swimming in liquid? You then, with slippery hands try to dump the liquid somewhere. Ultimately, you lose some valuable piece that has you scrambling like an idiot.

Well, thanks to the brilliance of a New Hampshire woman (T.J. “Lats” Latvis), your worries are over. The brand new innovative lobster plate is two layers - the top boasts vents that let those lobster juices drain to the plate below. Get all the juicy details.

As an added bonus, a portion of the profits from the sales of these plates benefits the Lobster Institute.
The Lobster Institute works with the lobster industry from New York to Newfoundland--the core mission is to sustain both the lobster resource and a viable lobster fisherythrough conservation, outreach and research.

Summer is on the way (or so I'm told...these cold gray days don't have me convinced), better stock up now!

Keeping it Real - Take 2

2011-05-12T08:49:00.000-07:00

As referenced yesterday, sometimes desperate times require desperate measures - and, my desperate measure is to give my toddler band-aids. Not every day. Not all the time. In desperation. When I need just a few minutes for whatever and she is resisting all other efforts. Band-aids are her drug. It can take her from meltdown to zen in a matter of seconds. Sure, it's wasteful. And, that doesn't sit easy with me. But, in the scheme of things, it seems, well, acceptable. Here is what happened during my shower yesterday.

Keeping it Real

2011-05-11T07:17:00.000-07:00

One day many months ago a friend said to me, "I'll be honest, I don't read your blog. You make life sound too perfect, too happy and it makes me feel bad."

That made me sad. Not that she didn't read my blog. Honestly, I don't expect anyone to - but it is nice to know that some people do! I just felt sad that somehow my reflections had made someone I care about feel bad.

Too perfect? Too happy? Really?

Naturally, this has caused a lot of reflection. It's true, I don't share the nitty gritty details of what is wrong in my life. Not because I'm trying to paint this picture of a perfect life, but rather because I'm trying to protect the privacy of the people in my lives. What I share is true. But, I realize that maybe every once in a while I need to give folks a glimpse of the not-so-wonderful pieces of life. So, in that spirit, here's a glimpse into my last few days -- but, first, some context.

I'm single-parenting for a long stint (My admiration for those who do this - single parenting - all the time continues to grow) while my husband is off working - doing some really interesting and inspiring work in a place that I love.

Meanwhile, I'm here, juggling a heavy workload, home and two children (and about a million other things that I decided to take on right now.). This is not a "pity me" statement -- ( it's not like he's off sitting on a beach for weeks on end. He's working hard. And, he's away from home. And, he's away from his girls which is very hard on him.) it's just the way it is.

So, here goes - some of the highlights (read: low points) of my past few days:

My toddler has regressed (?) to waking many times a night.
My toddler dunked her sister's very nice baby doll in a toilet that someone forgot to flush. She then proceeded to drag that baby doll around.
My toddler has, out of no where, decided that the way to get attention is to throw sippy cups, full drink, across the room. FYI, the tops of sippy cups burst off with the force of her throw.
The case of a library-borrowed DVD of Elmo has gone missing. I will now owe the library money for a DVD I could surely live without.
I organized a yard sale (along with neighbors) and a lemonade stand for my daughter. This, of course, amounted to much work trying to gather things, price things - and, now deal with the things that didn't sell. For $90. Yea, that was worth it. Not. My sometimes-annoying sister reminded me that a tax-deduction would have been a better move.
I had to set up the yard sale - among dozens of earlybirds who arrived 2 hours before we opened - with a very crabby two year old in my arms.
Moments after the yard sale "opened", that very crabby two year old vomited on me and spiked a fever of 102. Probably not going to win "Mother of the Year" for keeping the yard sale going.
I drove around for 30 minutes (yea, let's not talk about the cost of that - or the impact on the environment) with a feverish toddler asleep in the back, hoping to find a friend outside a store who would watch my child-filled car while I ran into get some much-needed Tylenol (for the baby, not me) and juice because it was the only thing that this child would consume while feeling so yucky.
I have knowingly given my littlest daughter 2 boxes of bandaids to play with (she thinks they are stickers and obsessed with them) just so I could have a peaceful shower. I got the peaceful shower, but only to find pieces of bandaid wrapper strewn everywhere and a childen laden with bandaids.
I had a wart frozen off (I've never had a wart, that I know of, and at the dermatologist noticed it and immediately zapped it.). It hurt. It made doing all of the above harder. To add insult to injury, it developed into a GIGANTIC, super painful, blood blister - which I'm told happens to less than 5% of the population. Yea for me, I'm in the elite.

May: Updike's Take

2011-05-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

In keeping with tradition at Maine-ly Home, here's John Updike's take on May. Have you gotten your copy of A Child's Calendar? It really is such a wonderful book with a monthly poem by Updike and beautiful illustrations by Trina Schart Hyman.

MAY

Now children may
Go out of doors,
Without their coats,
To candy stores.

The apple branches
And the pear
May float their blossoms through the air,

And Daddy may
Get out his hoe
To plant tomatoes
In a row,

And, afterwards,
May lazily
Look at some baseball
On TV.

A Child's Perspective on Killing Osama Bin Laden

2011-05-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

Last night while trying to keep myself awake during the commercials of a show I was watching, I was thinking about my Monday a.m. posts.

I had many ideas.

John Updike's take on May. My May planner. A couple of great new recipes.

Those were some of the ideas circulating. But, then, I thought, I'll share a photo or two (and some words, no doubt) of my daughter who turned 2.

But, then IT happened. IT --THAT breaking news that interrupted my show watching and my blog plans. (Yes, shallow, I know.)

Osama Bin Laden, the enemy that has been sought for nearly a decade, was found. And, killed. Yes, killed.

All over Facebook, Twitter, the Internet and TV, people cheered.

Not me.

It's not that I'm not pleased to have found the man who caused this nation - and so many individuals and families so much grief. I am. I really am.

But, something didn't (doesn't) feel right about the whole thing.

I've really never been a believer of "an eye for an eye". Maybe it's all those years of my parents telling me to always take the high road. Maybe it's something more.

Still, I'm glad that "we" found him. And, now maybe some will feel closure and we can move towards peace. Please.

So many people have died. So many lives have been disrupted and/or destroyed. So much hate has brewed. So many lives have been redefined.

I decided that I should proactively discuss this big happening with my daughter. Surely, it might come up at school - if not in social studies, surely in elementary school discussions on the playground. I was not anxious to have this discussion - but I did know that my daughter needed to hear it from me and to be able to get answers for me.

Ha. Answers? Like I have the answers. But, surely, my answers are better than some of the answers she might get from others?

So, I told her.

I was pretty frank. I told her about the tragedy of 9/11. I told her about Osama Bin Laden-- and his role in the events of 9/11. I told her that our country has spent nearly a decade looking for this man. (Ten years looking for someone? Do you realize how ridiculous that sounds, particularly to a seven year old?) And, I told her that "we" killed this man.

There was silence. But, really only a moment of silence. And, then, she looked at me and said completely matter-of-fact, "Killed him? That doesn't seem right! We were mad at him for killing people and then we killed him? That doesn't seem right at all."

Oh my dear little girl. You SO get it. You always, always do.

{This Moment}

2011-04-29T06:49:00.000-07:00

Inspired by SouleMama, {this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

What Makes Me Excited

2011-04-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

I know, intriguing headline. Almost throws into question the family-friendliness of this blog, doesn't? Are you prepared for what you are about to read?

Last night, I did it. I tapped into an excitement I hadn't even know existed...

I purchased my first appliance.

Seriously.

I'm 42 and I've never actually purchased an appliance before. We've either rented or purchased houses that already had appliances.

Okay, wait. I'm wrong. We did buy an extra freezer. Hmm. Somehow that didn't do it for me.

But, a new washing machine - yea, baby!

It isn't the top of the line. But, it is an Energy Star-rated machine - and having helped launch the Energy Star brand for EPA many years ago, it made it extra special to walk in and ask for an Energy Star appliance and actually have store clerks who knew what I was talking about. It was a moment like no other -- my career and domesticness colliding.

It's really not that fancy. Middle of the line, really. White. It's a top loader (I couldn't do the front loader -- though tempting for other reasons, front loaders are not as predictable in felting). And, it comes tomorrow and I can hardly wait.

When I called my husband on my way home from the store, I was giddy with excitement. He laughed. And, as only a husband can say (and get away with because I'm confident in my career and my role as domestic goddess), "Congratulations, you are officially a house wife." Lol. Sorta.

Truth is, I spend an enormous amount of my time doing laundry - so it really seems appropriate to have a good machine. Now, if you really want to knock my socks off, help me get a dreamy laundry room (oh, the visions I have!) instead of the 175 year old granite, creepy basement where it now resides. But, for now, I'll take my sparkling, new, highly-efficient machine and be a very happy domestic goddess.

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Spring

2011-04-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy trying to force Spring inside my home.

That I didn't notice that Spring was already happening outside.

How to Find Peace, Tranquility and Muscle Relaxation in One-Hour or Less

2011-04-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

{photo via Emily Estes}

Okay, I got you, didn't I? Who doesn't want peace, tranquility and muscle relaxation? And, in an hour? Is that really possible?

I didn't think so.

But, then I discovered Watsu. Yea, you read that right. Watsu. Have you heard of it? It is Shiatsu massage practiced in a heated therapy pool. In one word? Delightful. Your body floating in perfectly heated water while stretching and massage eases away tension.

I'll be honest, for the first ten minutes I was not convinced. I felt hesitant. Could I really let go enough -- let someone else be responsible for keeping me afloat (and I realize that a therapist could have a field day reading into this statement!)?

But, I was in the hands of physical therapist and Watsu practitioner Emily Estes - and, well, she has some magic ability to put even the most tense at ease. Not long after I thought it impossible to relax, I entered another zone. I floated effortlessly in the water gazing out the windows that surrounded me (it was a particularly wonderful day as the snow was falling and it made me feel like I was swimming in a snow globe). Trees and sky surrounded me. Warm water enveloped me. Bliss. One hour later I exited the pool the most relaxed I'd been in, well, I can't even recall.

Emily, a long-time practitioner at a local physical therapy center, recently opened her own wellness center in Dresden, Maine. It's a bit off the beaten track - and, honestly, it is that very fact that adds to its wonderfulness. The Wild Grace Wellness Center is a bit of heaven tucked in the woods. The building boasts some of the most soothing colors and decor to be found. When you enter the door, you enter another world. A world of calmness, of healing, of bliss. And, the building is built with the environment in mind, which, in my book, makes it even more perfect.

For those of you who might be undergoing physical therapy -- if aquatic therapy is prescribed, Watsu may be covered. For those of you who lack insurance reimbursement, the full hour of Watsu is $90.

In addition to Watsu, the wellness center offers massage and yoga -- and, more wonderfulness is in the works!

What are you waiting for? Book a Watsu appointment today - and tell Emily you read about it on Maine-lyHome.

Easter Goodness

2011-04-25T10:32:00.000-07:00

Easter was a big deal growing up.

At least, that's what I remember.

Easter egg dying. Sunrise church services against our will. Egg and pancake breakfasts my mom was often involved in organizing. Easter outfits. (I'm going to see if I can't dig up one of these old photos because my recollection is there are some winners. No offense, Mom, I'm sure that was the style...) Having to don a winter coat and mud boots over pretty Spring-y Easter outfits. Baskets with goodies. Always predictable. A hollow chocolate bunny (which became the source of competition among siblings...who would have theirs the longest). Underwear (why, I have no idea). A new book. There was, of course, an Easter egg hunt -- sometimes inside, sometimes out. It is Maine, after all. And, Easter could be gorgeous and warm or blustery and snowy. And, I always remember us sorting jelly beans. Dad loves licorice so we'd give him all the black jelly beans. (Now, I am the recipient of black jelly beans. Genetic love for licorice, to blame.)

That's how I remember it.

Now, of course, we have our own family traditions. Many the same. Like mud boots and Easter dresses, for example. :)

It's certainly a favorite holiday around here...here are just a few of the reasons:


Because decorating eggs brings out the kid in all of us.

Because we need to be reminded about the importance of surprise.

Because of the wonderfulness of discovering a brightly colored egg in the very dead garden....

Because baby fingers on eggs are about the most precious thing ever...

Because my eldest loves to have sisters with matching dresses...(I'm guessing this might be the last year of that!)

Because there is really nothing cuter than the cute guy you love with his girls in Easter dresses.

Because pretty dresses and white tights don't matter when you spot an egg in the dirt.

Because this almost 2 year old caught on to the whole Easter egg hunting thing in a minute...complete with gasps of excitement upon spotting an egg...followed by an enthusiastic "my got it"...followed by calling out while in motion "eggs, where are you?"

Because an egg hunt brings out the intense focus in a near 2 year old...

...and a wonderful, but sometimes a little sassy-of-late 7 year old.

Because sisters in yellow dresses find such great delight in the simple findings in their baskets.

Because white tights and party shoes -- big and small - are the cutest thing ever, really.

Because a cute dress and hat can make even the grumpiest church goer seem cute.

Brilliance in Recycling - Just in Time for Earth Day!

2011-04-21T06:48:00.000-07:00

I love getting new toothbrushes -- it's like the equivalent of new pencils on the first day of school - a chance to start over.

Honestly, I have never thought twice about tossing the dated toothbrushes--in the trash they go!

Until I saw this new toothbrush. I spotted it in the toothbrush aisle and was instantly drawn in. A toothbrush made from recycled yogurt cups (not to worry, the bristles are new!)! How cool is that? The only thing cooler is that the very minimalist packaging serves double-time as a postage-paid envelope for returning your toothbrush to the company for recycling. Cool, huh?

{This Moment}

2011-04-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

Inspired by SouleMama, {this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see

Heaven. Or, is it the devil?

2011-04-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

My dear friend and author of SupperbySix is a fellow Etsy-a-holic and she turned me onto this deliciously dangerous temptation. Heartsy. It's what happens when Etsy (handmade marketplace) and Groupon get together. Holy moly. C heck it out.

April Planner

2011-04-06T07:31:00.000-07:00

April is here. It started with a big snow storm...I wonder how it will end? Time will tell. In the meantime, I've got a busy month planned...

Plant easter grass. Yea, I was supposed to do that last month. Didn't get to it. Is there still time?
Attend the Maine Fiddler's Concert. This concert (now in its 11th year) takes place at The Chocolate Church Arts Center in Bath, Maine and is, in part, a fundraiser for Maine Fiddle Camp. It is a ball...and always makes me want to re-engage in learning to play my fiddle.
A Psyanky date with my husband. I know, sounds kinky, huh? Not to worry, Maine-ly Home remains a family-friendly blogsite. But, I've been dying to give this wonderful craft another try since my friend Jeanne graciously taught me last April. And, my husband has agreed to do it with me.
Visit some baby lambs. I must take my lamb-lovin' toddler to see some baby lambs. Oh, how I can't wait!
Find some forsythia for a little spring forcin'.
Make a birthday crown for my baby who is turning 2!?!
Start thinking about a yard sale for MayFair Weekend.
Find some new mud boots. Cause it's clear it's going to be a very muddy season. Maybe the muddiest yet.

What's on your planner?

Signs of Spring Continued

2011-04-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned the other day, it feels ever so important (and, today, this very foggy, wet day is no exception) to capture and share signs of Spring. This is a shot I captured the other day. Yea, I'm thinking it's going to be a messy Spring.

Oh, hello April!

2011-04-04T09:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, how did that happen? It was just March...and, today I turned on my computer and realized it was April 4th.

The good news? We missed April Fools. In our house, we have discovered that with young children who learn of April Fools, the bad jokes and pranks continue well beyond the 1st. It's a nightmare, really.

I think the problem is that on Friday, April 1st, in the wee hours of the night I got a text message.

It read: School cancelled.

Snow day.

Yup. Just when we thought we were in the clear, a Nor'easter (that's what we New Englanders call a nasty storm with wind and wet stuff that comes at us from the Northeast) blanketed this great state with a whole bunch more of that white fluffy stuff.

Only this time, it wasn't so light and fluffy. Heavy and wet. So heavy and wet that it through those just waking up branches for a loop, or rather a tumble. Power outages were widespread. No foolin'.

I must admit I was rather grumpy about the whole thing the minute I heard that text beep on my phone. I had an ambitious day planned - one that wouldn't come to fruition with two girls in tow.

But, when I looked out my window and saw that beautiful blanket on what can be a pretty ugly time of year, I found a better attitude. Mostly. We played in the snow. Contemplated snow bunnies. Baked. Painted. And, then welcomed in a busy, sunny weekend.

April: John Updike's take

2011-04-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

In keeping with tradition at Maine-ly Home, here's John Updike's take on April. Have you gotten your copy of A Child's Calendar? It really is such a wonderful book with a monthly poem by Updike and beautiful illustrations by Trina Schart Hyman.

April
It's Spring! Farewell
To chills and colds!
The blushing, girlish
World unfolds

Each flower, leaf,
And blade of turf--
Small love-notes sent
From air to earth.

The sky's a hear
Of prancing sheep,
The birds and fields
Abandon sleep,

And jonquils, tulips,
Daffodils
Bloom bright upon
The wide-eyed hills.

All things renew.
All things begin.
At church, they bring
The lilies in.

Signs of Spring Required

2011-03-30T06:45:00.000-07:00

There is rumor of a big snow storm on Friday.

I love snow - and I love winter. But, hello, it's Spring now. I'm done. I'm a fair weather person like that.

The reality is, however, in the two places where I hang my hat, Spring comes in fits and starts - and sometimes never comes at all. As a survival tactic, I look for signs of Spring...sings of change wherever I can find them. The next few days here at Maine-ly Home will feature some of the signs I find...

How's it looking in your neck of the woods?

Still Soaking Up the Sweetness

2011-03-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was, among other things, Maine Maple Sunday. A holiday not-to-be-missed around here! Since I've already bored you many times with the details of this obsession, I'll spare you from too many more.

This year we went (as always) to Goransan's Farm in Dresden. Then, set out to find a new sugarhouse -- Mitchell and Savage Maple Farm in Bowdoin. Both fun in their own way, though I am so smitten with the barns and sugarshack at Mitchell and Savage Maple Farm that I'm having trouble sleeping. I know, I'm wierd like that.

A few photos of our Maine Maple Sunday adventures....

{Checking for sap}

{sisters looking at baby goats]


{the barns that are keeping me awake at night}


{the scene. Maine-rs waiting for some fresh maple syrup over vanilla ice cream. we like simple things like that here.}

{the to-die-for sugarshack}

{my little sugar all-sugared-out}

Rites of Spring

2011-03-28T10:24:00.000-07:00

My husband doesn't (or, rather, didn't) believe me.

I told him that going to Fat Boy's Drive-In (Yes, we have 1950s-style drive-in restaurants here!) was a rite of Spring here in Midcoast Maine.

He laughed as he climbed in the car to go to the drive-in for the opening last week.

When we got there (much later than I had hoped), there was a line of cars out on the street waiting for a spot. One look (or, was it a listen...?) at the two hungry children in the back and we knew it was not happening tonight.

Major disappointment for all. Even my husband. By now, he'd realized the truth -- it is a rite of Spring (later confirmed by headlines in the paper).We would return soon, we promised the sad little seven year old who had her heart set on eating a grilled cheese and lemonade in the car tonight.

If you haven't been to Fat Boys, you've got to try it. Just once. (Your arteries and waistline beg you, just once.) The drive-in opened in 1955 -- and it looks like a thing hasn't change (though I happen to know that in a Nor-easter a few years back, the coveted sign was destroyed - and now replaced with an identical, though much shinier, sign).

To be there for opening week/weekend is a gift. Okay, that's a totally ridiculous statement. It's not a gift. But, it is an awesome scene. A parking lot of people in their cars ready to embrace summer (even though it is still months away). But, the greasy food and warm-enough (or at least snow-free-enough) weather for waitresses to come to your car are signs of hope for Maine-rs who have been hunkered down for months.

While I'm well aware of this iconic institution - I'm really a newbie. I'd driven by it one zillion times, for certain. But, it wasn't until a decade ago when my Uncle Charlie introduced me to the place.

While we don't eat there but once or twice a year, I'm so glad to know about it -- it is such a classic scene. The minute you park your car, you are transported to the 50s. You find yourself desperately trying to find an oldies station to replace NPR. And, when the tray of burgers (or, crab rolls) and shakes shows up on the tray hanging from your car window, you are have expecting to catch a glimpse of the Fonz nearby. And, in a week where tragedy still looms in Japan and war is raging in the Middle East -- it is nice, if only for a minute, to escape to a different time.

PS. We did, in fact, make it back a few days later. And to prove how infrequently I let my girls eat fries, I've included this photo of my youngest nursing her fry...

A Sweet Weekend on Tap

2011-03-25T05:42:00.000-07:00

It's here. It's finally here. Well, almost. Maine Maple Sunday is just a couple of days away - and I can't wait. If you've been following me, you know Maine Maple Sunday is one of my favorite holidays (yes, I think of it as a holiday which should tell you something!). If you haven't followed me, you might want to read about this personal obsession here or here.

Maine Maple Sunday, the fourth Sunday of March each year, is the day when sugarhouses around the state open their doors to let everyone join in this annual rite of spring--sugaring (which is the fancy New England word for making maple syrup). As you drive around the state, you'll see steam rising from the sugar houses and have the opportunity to partake in all sorts of maple-infused festivities from pancake breakfasts to maple syrup sundaes. The farms will be busy with visitors all decked out in their mud boots and great big smiles.

And, if you are lucky, you'll hear some fiddlers and singers singing this chorus of "Maple Sweet", an early nineteenth century New England folk song

Oh! Bubble, bubble, bubble, bubble, bubble goes the pan,
Furnish sweeter music for the season if you can,
See the golden billows, watch their ebb and flow.
Sweetest joys indeed, we sugar makers know.

It is a very happy and very sweet day. Looking for Maine Maple Sunday events?

How to Create Creative Learning Spaces In Your Home

2011-03-24T07:12:00.000-07:00

{images via here}

I try really hard to create little creative spaces for my kids. Baskets of holiday or season specific books stashed in a reading corner with a pillow. Baskets of holiday or season specific art supplies for make cards and pictures. Readily accessible, high-quality art supplies. Blank books. Blank paper. Imaginary play things.

But, I envision even more.

Maybe it is the piece of me that always wanted to be a preschool teacher. Maybe it is the piece of me that still dreams of opening an art space for kids (and grownups!). Maybe it is the part of me that misses spontaneous creativity.

I struggle at times to find the best way to create creative play space within our home -- we don't have a lot of extra space -- and, I'll admit that I get frustrated by lots of extra stuff (clutter) everywhere. We don't have a playroom. I always say this is intentional - we want our kids to play in family space. Truth is, I also don't have the space for a separate playroom.

Anyhow, I couldn't be more excited about this resource and blog my Aunt Cathy (thanks, Aunt C!) pointed me to this a.m. - and, even better, the site is offering a giveaway -- a 6-week ecourse on creating creative spaces (say that three times fast!). Needless to say, I've entered -- you should too!

I'm Not Blogging in Support of Japan

2011-03-17T18:01:00.000-07:00

I'm joining other bloggers tomorrow in going silent for the day (you won't see a post here!) in support of the ongoing tragedy in Japan. Please think about donating to disaster relief.

Celebrating The Green

2011-03-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

I don't believe we have even a tiny bit of Irish in us, but that doesn't stop us from celebrating. After all, we live in a town that devotes an entire week to St. Patrick's Day, kicking off with a parade....and, ending, well, with a whole lot of partying at the local Irish pub.

Thanks to my mother-in-law, my girls looked awfully festive (though a little grumpy in nearly all the photos I snapped - what's up with that?) today! And, my eldest was most relieved that she was guaranteed not to be pinched.

Crafternoon: Quick and Easy Custom Notebooks

2011-03-15T07:15:00.000-07:00

I could easily spend a fortune on goodie bags. I love them.

But, I was trying NOT to do that for my daughter's recent fairy-themed tumbling party. I was trying to be thrifty - and trying not to plague other households with a lot of junk. But, I also wanted the goody bags to tie-into the fairy theme...

A glowing ring (fairy magic ring). A flower pencil (a want, according to my daughter - love her imagination!). A notebook (for writing fairy wishes). Fairy-like stickers. And, a flower fairy crown (which will double as decorations while the girls are tumbling). Perfect? Well, good enough, at least.

The fairy crowns were a piece of cake (though a bit time consuming when you start making multiples!) thanks to floral wire and floral tape and a whole slew of fake flowers and tulle.

The thing that hung me up was the notebooks. All the cute notebooks cost a lot. So, I took a gamble and purchased little spiral notepads -- pack of 3 for $1.00 -- with hopes of customizing the covers.

My little fairy and I set to work with some decorative papers I had in my stash, a paper cutter and a glue stick. Easy-as-pie and, I think, super cute.

24 Hours of Us in Southern Maine

2011-03-14T14:22:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, I won a "Maine Thing to Do" from 101MaineThingsToDo. The prize? One night (including breakfast) at Stage Neck Inn in York, Maine. Yee-haw! (And, many thanks to both 101MaineThingstoDo AND Stage Neck Inn.)

My mom graciously agreed (thanks Mom!) to watch our children so we could sneak away. And, we did just that. We snuck away. Would you believe that it was our first time away from both girls? And, let's see, the total number of nights without children in seven years...three? Maybe four. The point? Not many. By choice. True. Still, as much as we adore our kids, it is important to have some time for us, right?

And, it was a great excuse for us to check out a new part of Maine!

York is in Southern Maine, not far from the New Hampshire border. Many, many people vacation in this area of Maine. But, I have never been there. To York, at least - and very little to neighboring areas. There isn't a reason for this other than my husband and I naturally choose to go North. Here in Maine...and well, virtually everywhere.

We started out on our journey with dinner in Portland at the new-ish restaurant, The Salt Exchange. A beautiful atmosphere, the service terrific, the presentation was amazing and the food was really yummy. The restaurant features "small plates" so we sampled quite a few things. My favorites? The beet risotta cakes, the Prince Edward Island mussels and scallops. Mmm. I'm still thinking about the scallops.

Our room at Stage Neck Inn was very comfortable and had an amazing view. Check it out. And our breakfast buffet (with a killer view, I might add) -- yum.

I tried to be artistic and take a picture of our view through the very cool and eco-friendly soap...but, it didn't quite cut it. But, the soap is really cool, don't you think? (In addition to being made out of natural ingredients, the soap is missing the inside of the soap - you know, the little piece that always gets wasted, especially in a hotel.)

Our day in York was bitterly cold and windy -- so we mostly explored by car. Must say, the beaches in the area are impressive! We made a stop at Stonewall Kitchen's headquarters (which includes a store, a cafe and a cooking school!). We loved checking it out and vowed to return with our eldest for a cooking class. Even my husband got into the sampling at the store.

Before heading back, we stopped at Cape Porpoise Kitchen to split a Maine crab with dill havarti panini, some delicious cookies and lattes. :)

It was wonderful to have a little get-away -- and wonderful to come home to happy girls and Midcoast Maine.

New Online Magazine. I'm Smitten.

2011-03-11T18:53:00.000-08:00

Really, I can't even begin to describe the cuteness of this new online magazine. You have to check it out for yourself. To.die.for.

Blogging Makes You Do Crazy Things

2011-03-09T06:19:00.000-08:00

{image via here}

Blogging makes you do crazy things.

Like what, you ask?

Like acknowledge - and celebrate blogaversaries, for one.

But, I'm doing it. I'm celebrating my one year blogaversary. Today.

March 9th is a hard day for me. It marks huge loss in my life. And, for that reason, it seemed like a great day - a-nothing-to-lose-only-things-to-be-gained-kind-of-day to start my blog.

I started Maine-lyhome not knowing where it would go. Not knowing whether I'd have something to say. Not knowing if anyone would read it.

In some ways, I still don't have those answers.

But, what I do know, is that I am loving this space -- and the channel it has given me for my creativity.

And, I'm really loving that so many of you have sent me wonderful thoughts and comments on and offline.

Thank you for your support.

Do-Over-Dinner: Chicken & White Bean Chili

2011-03-08T05:59:00.000-08:00

{photo via here}

My in-laws gave me two really great cookbooks for Christmas. One is all about soups. The other is a cookbook which uses Trader's Joes products. The book is called The Cooking with Trader Joe's Cookbook: Dinner's Done! -- and I highly recommend that you snag yourself a copy. Although all the recipes have something that is purchased from Trader Joe's - I believe you can find a substitute for most of those products if you don't happen to live near a Trader Joes.

I made this recipe - called White Lightning Chili in the book - last night. It won Do-Over status - and that is really great news because it is not only super easy, but super yummy. I've adapted this a tiny bit.

Chicken & White Bean Chili

What You Need:
About a pound of diced, cooked chicken. (You can buy "Just Chicken" in this format at TJ's - but I just baked thinly sliced boneless chicken breasts and chopped myself.)
A cups of chicken broth. I am a huge fan of Better than Bouillion
1 1-lb container of Just Chicken (or 4 cups of cooked and shredded chicken) cut into bite size chunks
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 15-oz can White Kidney Beans (Cannellini Beans), drained and rinsed
1 15-oz can Pinto Beans, drained and rinsed
1 13.75-oz jar Corn and Chile Salsa
Optional: Shredded cheese and plain Greek yogurt for garnish

How to Make:
1.) Pour the broth into a medium or large pot. Add the quinoa (make sure quinoa is rinsed and drained). Bring to a boil.
2.) Add the remaining ingredients (making sure beans are rinsed and drained) and return to a boil. Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
3.) Serve in bowls, topping with shredded cheese and a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, if desired.

Serves 8

Baby Blogger

2011-03-07T07:09:00.000-08:00

Guess someone's been watching me. (I realize this is not an ideal thing.) I wonder what she's blogging about?

Simplifying Begins Today

2011-03-06T12:11:00.000-08:00

I have always been very organized--since I was a very little kid. Just ask my big sister who was (still is?) very annoyed by this fact. It's one of the traits that makes me good at my job -- or should I say my jobs - as mom and as consultant. I like everything to have a home...to be in its place. And, I'm on a constant quest to get rid of stuff.

My husband has recently offered a reflection that has me thinking...am I really organized? Or, do I just organize to cope. I'm not sure it really matters. The fact is that I haven't been good at coping if things aren't organized.

Truth is, however, I feel like I've really lost organizational edge. Not sure if it is the two kid thing. The two coast thing. The two working parent thing. The fact that I live in a 175 year old home that while charming, just doesn't cut it for storage thing. Or, maybe I'm just getting old and tired.

Whatever the reason is, I'm hoping that (and, gosh, I'm being bold to do this publicly) joining Simple Mom for the next five weeks might help kick me back into gear. Each week, on Monday, Simple Mom will reveal a corner of your home that needs to be tackled. You are encouraged to take before and after shots to share. It begins tomorrow -- wanna join me?

Great New Blog: Supper By Six

2011-03-03T19:59:00.000-08:00

A good friend, fellow foodie and amazing cook, just started a great new blog -- Supper By Six.

The blog focuses on recipes that she can either make ahead, freeze or make on a Monday night. In other words, the working mom's (or dad!) dream come true. If you are a regular Maine-ly Home follower, you'll know what I mean when I say that a lot of the recipes are likely to make it to the "Do-Over Dinner" list in my house.

Check it out, you'll be SO glad you did.

March Planner

2011-03-02T08:20:00.000-08:00

I know that February is typically a dreaded month for most. Not for us - we have so many celebrations in February it gets us through whatever funk others experience.

March, on the other hand, is a really hard month for me. It's long. It jerks me around with glimpses of spring (though it is possible I might not have this to complain about this year) and often has left us with not enough snow and winter-ness to get out and do the winter things we love. And, while it is a month that is filled with lovely family birthdays -- in my life, it is also a month of anniversaries of huge loss.

But, really, if I can let go...let myself think about the good that March has to offer, I realize there is really quite a lot to look forward to. Just look at some of what I have planned:

A night away (our first in years!) with my husband at Stage Neck Inn courtesy of 101MaineThingstoDo. Not only a chance to have some quality time with my guy, but also a chance to see a part of Maine, I've never explored.
My blogiversary - March 9th. Have I spelled that right? Yup, it's true, I've been blogging for a year this month. I have loved every minute of it - and so love those of you who have encouraged me along the way.
A trip to see the much anticipated exhibit The Jar Project.
St. Patrick's Day in Bath. I don't have a lick of Irish in me - but, I'll pretend - because in Bath, Maine, it's all about St. Patrick's Day. We have a parade (of course!)...Irish soda bread-making contests...beer and reubens...etc. Really, this is such a great town to live in! Just when you think there's nothing to do - ta-da!
Maine Maple Sunday. My very favorite holiday. :)
Indoor grass planting.
Trips to see baby lambs at local farms.
Maybe even some spring "forcing".
And, of course, we'll be trying to squeeze in some more sledding, more skating and more skiing.

See, really, there is a lot to look forward to! What do you have planned for March?

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

2011-03-01T17:55:00.000-08:00

{photo via here}

Dr. Seuss is one of my all-time favorite authors. Always has been...but even more so since I watched my daughter learn to read with Dr. Seuss books. She loves, as an activity in the car, to make up Seuss-like stories. I'm guessing Baby R might too, someday since we read Oh, Baby, the Places You'll Go! to her in utero.

Probably no surprise to many, The Lorax is my favorite. But, really, I love so many. What's your favorite?

March: Updike's Take

2011-03-01T05:50:00.000-08:00

In keeping with tradition at Maine-ly Home, here's John Updike's take on March. Have you gotten your copy of A Child's Calendar? It really is such a wonderful book with a monthly poem by Updike and beautiful illustrations by Trina Schart Hyman.

March

The sun is nervous
As a kite
That can't quite keep
Its own string tight.

Some days are fair,
And some are raw.
The timid earth
Decides to thaw.

Shy budlets peep
From twigs on trees,
And robins join
The chickadees.

Pale crocuses
Poke through the ground
Like noses come
To sniff around.

The mud smells happy
On our shoes
We still wear mittens,
Which we lose.

How Did This Happen?

2011-02-28T13:41:00.000-08:00

Yup, that's my little girl. Well, apparently, my big girl. She turned 7 just a couple of days ago.

Honestly, I'm wondering, how the heck did that happen? I remember her arrival into this world as if it were moments ago.

We have deliberately designed a lifestyle which puts our family first. We live in the moment with our kids. We meet them off the bus. We play together. We cook together. We eat meals together. We explore together. We snuggle. We talk endlessly. And, yet, still it seems that time is slipping away. How can that be?

I decided that maybe the best course of action is to hold her back. (I'll start saving for therapy now...) Starting with putting a hold on all birthdays.

I told my daughter repeatedly (and, my husband reinforced this, so he should really be contributing to the therapy fund as well) that we weren't going to celebrate her birthday because I didn't want her to get older. Not that six was some kind of stellar year. (Truth be told, there are some moments of her last year I wouldn't mind forgetting...) I even thought about felting a six on her crown. But, alas I finally realized (was it the tears welling in her eyes that gave it away?) she didn't think it was flattering or funny. By golly, she's been counting the days (since well before Christmas) that she would finally be seven. What's so magical about seven, I wonder? Time will tell.

So, I decided if she MUST continue to grow up (and, I realize that quite possibly the best is yet to come!) that we should party it up. We had SO much fun preparing for - and celebrating her 7th birthday that I'm tempted to share a few little details in the days to come.

Where Art Thou?

2011-02-28T09:09:00.000-08:00

Have you been missing me -- or, tell the truth, have you not even noticed I've been gone? :)

Last week was our school vacation week. And, instead of doing our usual get outta town maneuver (which usually involves crazy cross country traveling) we opted to have a staycation.

It was delightful. (Mostly.)

The secret to success?

Letting go. I took the week off. I put aside my massive, never-ending to-do list. I kept my littlest in her part-time. I spent the week "being" with my oldest daughter. After all, it was our birthday week. We shopped. We crafted. We had coffee (and apple juice) at the coffee shop. We cooked. We read. We danced. We sang. We made and played with playdough. We planned big birthday extravaganzas. We had lunch with Tutu (my mom - that's her grandma name). It was the first time in, well, nearly two years, that my eldest and I had significant chunks of time just the two of us.

Note to self --make more time for one-on-one time with each and everyone.

Maine Artists + Jars = Love

2011-02-16T06:51:00.000-08:00

{a snip I grabbed from The Jar Project}

When I walked into my local coffee shop this a.m. a poster on the busy bulletin board caught my eye. You'll never guess why.

It has a big picture of a mason jar and the words The Jar Project.

Honestly, my heart started to flutter and my knees grew weak.

I know, I have such a wierd obsession with mason jars. I've told you, it's not my fault, it's genetic.

Anyhow...

What is even cooler than the poster that drew my attention is the actual event. The Jar Project. The brain child of Portland-based artist Alex Sax, the Jar Project highlights the creative contributions of 60 artists with connections to Maine. The jars vary in size, color and texture and contain a range of genres and mediums. The jar is a nod to an era "when our lives moved at a slower pace and we had a stronger connection to nature, community and our sources of nourishment. Whether it is canned peaches, pickles, garlic or tomato sauce, or marbles, pennies, seashells or gumdrops, the items in jars add richness and piquancy to our lives, and keep vibrant a pre-technological vision of human existence."

Sigh. My jar love grows.

I'll be checking out the installation for sure.

In the meantime, do you have jars in your house...what's in them?

These Totally Rock

2011-02-15T05:55:00.000-08:00

Is this the most amazing find ever? Felted floor cushions that look like rocks. I'm totally, completely, utterly in love.

Created by renowned South African textile designer Ronel Jordaan, these freeform oversized floor cushions are made from 100% merino wool. Their hefty - though well-warranted--price tag means I won't likely see them in my house. But, I can dream....and, I can even think about trying to felt one myself, right?

If you are inspired to purchase, here's a link:

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T08:51:00.000-08:00

It's a busy day here at our house. It's Monday. It's the 100th day of school. And, of course, as you likely know, it's Valentine's Day.
I woke to a carefully laid out Valentine display courtesy of my eldest. Red roses from her and my husband; carefully chosen cards; and big hugs. Lucky me.

I had gotten both girls heart tees and socks. In a moment of weakness, it inspired me to suggest that my eldest wear 100 hearts in celebration of 100 days of school (she had told me before going to bed that she was going to wear 100 pieces of clothing and the thought of that much extra laundry still had me in convulsions).
My daughter loved the idea. And, frankly, I was pretty impressed with myself. An easy win, I thought. Afterall, the dresser if filled with heart-adorned things.

Of course, minutes before we absolutely had to walk out the door, there was a near meltdown because we didn't have just the right number of hearts. And, she hated Dad's idea of cutting out hearts to stick in her pocket. Almost as much as she hated my idea of putting stickers on her hoodie. This near meltdown caused serious internal swearing and reminders about not coming up with such brilliant ideas ever again.

Just as I was about to blow a gasket and exclaim how much I hate Valentine's Day, she showed up with the remaining four hearts -- self-made, heart-shaped, red pipe-cleaner bracelets. Oh, how I love my little girl. She perseveres. And, her creativity propels success.

I hope to snap a photo of her heartfulness later, but just had to share the story now.

Whatever you are doing to celebrate love today, I hope it's special.

Calling All Potato Lovers

2011-02-08T20:01:00.000-08:00

{photos via here, here and here.}

I just learned, courtesy of EatMaine that February is National Potato Lovers Month. Who knew? And, to think I was so focused on the other very important February "holidays" -- my birthday, my daughter's birthday, President's Day and, of course, Valentine's Day. (Truth be told, the focus in our house is on my eldest's birthday. In keeping with our love for advent calendars, she has created a very lovely and detailed advent calendar to countdown to her birthday. Yea, don't go there. I, clearly, have not explained advent well enough.) Anyhow...

Who comes up with these national celebrations? It never ceases to amaze me how there is something for everything. But, really, it all makes sense. Here, in Maine, it is the dead of Winter. Snow is piled high everywhere. And, for Maine-rs who have put away food from their gardens (or perhaps from others' gardens) for the winter, potatoes are pretty much the staple this time of year. So, we gotta love potatoes, it's what we've got.

Frankly, I could eat potatoes all the time. I like 'em mashed, boiled, roasted, in soups - you name it. But, I try to limit my intake...and, well, I'm not sure how this happened to my two Maine-born girls (I mean, if you are born in potato country, don't you have to like potatoes?) do not like potatoes. It really even pains me to type that. Not like potatoes?

Well, not surprisingly potatoes don't make it to our dinner table all that often. But, in the spirit of supporting Maine potato farmers (and my love for potatoes), tonight's dinner is going to be all about potatoes.

Even dessert. Yup, in Maine we have a special potato dessert. They are called Needhams (and many a Maine-r has their own recipe) and they are aptly named - because once you've had one you just need them more. Needhams are chocolates with a creamy filling that is potato based. You'd never know by tasting them - though it definitely adds to a creamy texture. It's always our surprise dessert for people visiting us from away. Don't they look delicious!?

How about you? Are you having potatoes tonight? How will you fix them?

PS. Yes, that's Vodka - made in Maine, with potatoes, of course!

The Beginning of A Good Thing: Just{BE}Cause

2011-02-07T08:50:00.000-08:00

Nearly 1,000 homemade cookies + an afternoon of socializing with some new and old friends=the beginning of something really good.

Just{BE}Cause.

The vision? (Read more about the hatching of this idea.) Having fun and doing good.

Our initial idea was a cookie un-swap - a cookie swap with a twist, if you will. Instead of swapping cookies, we'd package them for the local Food Pantry as a mid-winter/pre-Valentine's Day treat.

Would people think we were crazy? Would they have fun and see this as a labor of love? Would they even come?

Well, we did it. And, they came armed with baskets of cookies and smiles -- and left eagerly planning months of projects to tackle.

Here's how it worked. We invited a small group of neighbors and friends to bring 50-60 cookies. We served up some yummy appetizers (my friend Amy who hosted the event at her B&B, the Benjamin Packard House, is a phenomenal cook...and made mini gourmet flatbread pizzas!) and beverages and packaged homemade cookies for a special treat for the local Food Pantry.

In the end, we packaged more than 70 bags of cookies. And, they look not only yummy, but special with the Whisker Graphics Divine Twine and Printables [if you are a regular follower, you know I'm addicted to their product!)] to give our packages a special look.

I know some of you are scoffing. Cookies? Who are you kidding? I {we} know we are not solving the painfully difficult problem of hungry families with cookies. But, maybe, just maybe, we are brightening a hard day? And, maybe, just maybe, we are fostering a tighter knit community. Maybe I'm crazy, but, I envision a place (which I'm lucky to have in my neighborhood) - like that of years gone by - where neighbors help neighbors in small ways - just{be}cause. Wouldn't that be a delightful switch from the overwhelming attitude of "what's in it for me" that sadly prevails in our world?

We are, we hope, in the process of inspiring this here - and, we'll keep you posted along the way in hopes that you'll start it in your neck of the woods, too.

My Husband Warned Me

2011-02-02T18:24:00.000-08:00

He told me that this would happen.

Well, not exactly THIS.

But, he has said (repeatedly) that I should be careful what expectations I set..

He was right.

Do you remember this?

Or, this?

Yes, those baskets of holiday inspired crafting goodness made for my daughter?

She looked at me today and said, "Remember those baskets of holiday card making stuff you used to make me? What ever happened to those?"

My heart sank. I created a tradition my daughter loved and I failed to continue to execute it. Then, as is natural when one is confronting failure and/or disappointment, I got defensive. And, then I reverted back to sadness. Priority for tomorrow (amidst making up for yet another lost work day thanks to Mother Nature)? Putting together one of these baskets....it's February and there are a lot of Valentines to be made, afterall.

I Heart Free Printables

2011-02-02T18:13:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I have Valentine's Day on our minds. We working on "our vision" for Valentines for her class...and she was dreaming of a basket full of Valentine supplies. Suffice it to say, it wasn't a pretty scene. Unhappy with her heart cutouts and my ever brilliant writer suddenly at a loss for words AND the ability to craft letters with her pencil.

Wouldn't in figure, just after she is fast asleep, I'd come across these wonderfully fun and FREE printables from the wonderful Whisker Graphics

What to Do When Someone Else Calls the Shots

2011-02-02T08:01:00.000-08:00

{image via here. you can buy this little rascal, by the way}

Yup, it's that day.

Groundhog Day.

That very odd American tradition when we wait for some silly little groundhog in Pennsylvania to determine our fate for the next six weeks.

Will the storm blanketing the US keep the little guy from seeing his shadow, giving us Northerners hope that Spring is on its way? Or, not?

In the meantime, I'm thinking that Gourmet Mom On the Go has the right idea of a way to celebrate this crazy day. Get the details here.

February: Updike's Take

2011-02-01T06:31:00.000-08:00

In keeping with tradition at Maine-ly Home, here's John Updike's take on February. Have you gotten your copy of A Child's Calendar? It really is such a wonderful book with a monthly poem by Updike and beautiful illustrations by Trina Schart Hyman.

The sun rides higher
Every trip.
The sidewalk shows.
Icicles drip.

A snowstorm comes,
And cars are stuck,
Though road salt flies
From the old town truck.

The chickadees
Grow plump on seed
That Mother pours
Where they can feed,

And snipping, snipping
Scissors run
To cut out hearts
For everyone.

How Texting Changed My Life

2011-01-26T18:46:00.000-08:00

{via here}

I have these vivid memories of rolling over in my bed in the wee hours of snowy mornings, turning on my clock radio, tuning into the local AM station and listening (and hoping) to hear my school's name cancelled.

I cannot tell you how many times I fell asleep mid-list and then had to listen again and again.

And, then, of course, I had to listen again to reassure me that I did (or didn't) hear my school's name.

It was hardly restful. Even a bit anxiety-filled.

Well, recently (I know, I'm probably a bit slow on this), I discovered I could have my kids' school district and daycare cancellations texted to me -- and it has changed me life. Okay, maybe it hasn't changed my life, but it has certainly improved my life.

Now, when I hear that little "beep" from my Smartphone in the wee hours of the morning, I smile and rollover knowing we have a little more time to sleep...oh, and to think just how this cancellation might wreak havoc on our day.

Living in a Snowglobe

2011-01-25T08:38:00.000-08:00

{photo via here}

It's one of those winters here.

The kind of winter where we get a little (and sometimes a lot) of snow every couple of (and sometimes every) days.

It's really lovely. Really lovely.

Unless, of course, you get caught up in the tiresome chore of shoveling (and, I'm oh-so-very lucky to have a husband who handles that for the most part) or get flustered by snow days (and, I admit to this).

For the most part, we live in a place where people embrace the outdoors. They don't let the weather - or the threat of weather (because we also live in a place where there is always a threat of weather) get them down. Every season brings a host of outdoor recreation. Winter? Snowmobiling. Skiing. Sledding. Ice fishing. Ice skating. Driving cars on frozen lakes (yes, it's true - and I might even tell you more about this really, really stupid activity which I vow to never partake in).

But, the last few days have been what one newsperson characterized as "dangerously cold".

We're not talking freezing.

We're talking below freezing. Days when "warmin' up" equals 5 degrees. No, that isn't a typo.

Days when it's just too cold -- even for hearty Maine-rs--to do anything. It's even too cold for Mother Nature to spit snow.

Last night I was huddled in bed with both my girls and a hot water bottle to keep our toes warm. And, while I relish the cuddling of sleeping girls, there wasn't a whole lot of sleeping going on....

So, this morning when I pulled open the shades and saw snow falling--the perfect consistency of a snow globe--I smiled. I didn't even let the possibility of a snow day get me down. Nope. Instead, I smiled because it had warmed up enough to snow.

We can go outside again.

Mason Jar + Lisa Leonard Designs = Bliss

2011-01-20T09:48:00.000-08:00

By now you likely know that I have a wierd obsession with mason jars. [For evidence, see here, here and even here.]

And, I love Lisa Leonard's designs (it is embarassing to think that I haven't shared this secret...)

Well, imagine the two colliding.

Oh, how sweet! (Good thing next month is Valentine's Day AND my birthday!)

{image via Lisa Leonard Designs}

I Heart Tees with Heart

2011-01-18T12:51:00.002-08:00

My dear cousin (of LoveVermont fame) has introduced me to the designs of New Hampshire clothing designer Emerson Made. And, just look what Emerson Made has launched just in time for Valentine's Day. How adorable is this tee?

Warm Hands = ?

2011-01-13T08:09:00.000-08:00

{photo via Once Wed}

Warm hands = cuteness and a fabulous Crafternoon activitywhen it comes to these adorable handmade handwarmers. Take those unsightly disposable handwarmers and give them style with little wool pouches. Here's the how-to.

You Must Live in Maine

2011-01-12T16:37:00.000-08:00

It seems every day my inbox is flooded with jokes or such that are forwarded from friends. Often I don't read them because I get tired of scrolling, scrolling, scrolling through all the "forward to". But, my Mom insisted that I read one today. And, I'm glad she did. It's comedian Jeff Foxworthy's take on Maine. And, for the record, I get all of these so I must live in Maine. (Note: He doesn't say "from Maine" because here in Maine, that's a whole different story....)

Foxworthy on Maine:

If you consider it a sport to gather your food by drilling through 18 inches of ice and sitting there all day hoping that the food will swim by,
You might live in Maine

If you have ever refused to buy something because it's "too spendy",
You might live in Maine

If your local Dairy Queen is closed from November through March,
You might live in Maine

If someone in a store offers you assistance, and they don't work there,
You might live in Maine

If your dad's suntan stops at a line curving around the middle of his forehead,
You might live in Maine

If you have worn shorts and a parka at the same time,
You might live in Maine

If your town has an equal number of bars and churches,
You might live in Maine

If you know how to say...Wicked. ..Up to camp. .Ayuh.Can't get there from heyah,
You might live in Maine

If you think that ketchup is a little too spicy,
You might live in Maine

If vacation means going "up north" for the weekend,
You might live in Maine

If you measure distance in hours,
You might live in Maine

If you know several people, who have hit deer more than once,
You might live in Maine

If you often switch from "Heat" to "A/C" in the same day and back again,
You might live in Maine

If you can drive 65 mph through 2 feet of snow
during a raging blizzard without flinching and keep drinking coffee
You might live in Maine

If you see people wearing hunting clothes at social events,
You might live in Maine

If you install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked,
You might live in Maine

If you think of the major food groups as beer, fish, and Venison,
You might live in Maine

If you carry jumper cables in your car, and your wife or girlfriend knows how to use them,
You might live in Maine

If there are 7 empty unlocked cars running in the parking lot at Hannafords at any given time,
You might live in Maine

If you design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit,
You might live in Maine

If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow,
You might live in Maine

If you know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, and of course, road construction,
You might live in Maine

If you can identify a southern or Massachusetts accent,
You might live in Maine

If your idea of creative landscaping is a plastic deer next to your blue spruce,
You might live in Maine

If "Down South" to you means Boston
You might live in Maine

If you know "scat" is something you don't eat,
You might live in Maine

If you find -10 degrees "a little chilly",
You might live in Maine

If you actually understand these jokes, and you forward them to all your Maine friends,
Youdefinetly live in Maine

When Snow Days Became A Bad Thing

2011-01-12T10:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday it became painfully obvious as the day wore on, that today would be a snow day. The signs?

The weather forecast, for one.

But, the real sign?

The fact that this would have been the first week in eight weeks that didn't have a "blip" in it -- no sick kids, no school cancellations, no holidays. That, my friends, was the real sign that today would be a snow day.

So, I was not surprised that when both my girls awoke earlier than usual (because that is another sure sign of a snow day) to learn that school and daycare cancelled.

Luckily for those around me, it seemed like a legitimate call (I have to say that isn't always the case.)

I know, I sound like a horribly mean mother. Who wouldn't relish an unexpected day to play with her kids? And, in the snow to boot?

There was a day when I longed for snow days. And, especially longed for snow days with my kids.

But, this week - this day - was not one of them. I wanted, for once in two months, to have a regular week. I wanted to make my full paycheck...meet some deadlines...maybe even get a workout in.

No such luck.

I've just finished some absolutely necessary work calls - and, now I'm going to let go. Because it seems so dreadfully wrong that I have come to a place where snow days are a bad thing.

So, right now, I'm changing my attitude. I'm going to make cookies with my girls, play in the snow, play some games...maybe even let them suck me into a game of pretend (I love pretend, but I, apparently, always do it wrong, so it isn't always fun for me.).

Happy snow day.

Work in Progress: Swapping Cookies for Love

2011-01-11T10:54:00.000-08:00

[photo via here.]

Over a margarita on New Year's Eve, two of my favorite fellow baker friends and I concocted an idea. It went something like this.

We compared holiday baking stories. How many batches. New favorite recipes. Joy in delivering.

I confessed to my disappointment of another year passed without hosting a cookie swap.I vowed that next year would be THE year.

Amy said, "You can only have one if you agree to donate the cookies to the Food Pantry". She does this every Christmas -- deliveries dozens of beautifully bagged homemade holiday cookies to the help-yourself portion of the local food pantry. (What a gift!)

We shifted gears and talked about how many hungry people there are - and how sad it is that the donations all happen at once - over the holidays. What would happen in the middle of the winter when folks really needed stuff the most?

Ahah. The lightbulb went off. (There might have been another margarita by then...) Cookies in the winter. Valentine's Day. That's it -- A cookie swap for Valentine's Day. So, I'm still working on this idea (and, I know, Valentine's Day is just around the corner), but here's how I am seeing it play out.

1. Identify a date to invite friends (armed with homemade cookies) to share in tea (or something) while we bag cookies.
2. Invite friends.
3. Welcome friends (armed with cookies) at my house
4. Share in friendship and bag cookies in cellphane bags. Tie with Divine Twine.
5. Deliver to local food bank in time for Valentine's Day.
6. Feel a tad bit warmer knowing some hungry folks will get to enjoy a little extra treat this cold winter.

So, I need some help. I need a good name for this...it isn't really a cookie swap...what is it?

If I made it easy...invitation templates and all...would you host one too? Tell the truth.

And, of course, I welcome other ideas, too.

January: A Planner

2011-01-05T19:19:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm not off to a good start. It's January 5th and I actually have no planner yet (it's my idea of forcing myself to abandon my paper planner and use Google tools on my Smartphone)...but, here's a list of the things I'm hoping to do this month:

Ice skate. A lot. Maine is notorious for ice rinks. Sure, there are some of those fancy kind with zambonis and all. But, more often than not you'll find towns flooding their recreation field or town green to make way for ice skating. And, many a Maine-r floods their own backyard. The rationale? It's cold here - make the best of it! If you live in Maine and are looking for a place to skate, check out this listing of known Maine ice rinks (indoor and out).
Sled. A lot. Again, it's cold and snowy in Maine. We could sit inside and feel sorry for ourselves, or get out and enjoy it.
Ski. Again....I grew up skiing in Maine. Largely at Mt. Abram and Sugarloaf (and, please don't even think of letting that news about the lift collapse intimidate you - it is a fabulous ski resort). My new favorite ski destinations? Saddleback Mountain and Camden Snowbowl. Saddleback, thanks to its recent change of ownership, has become a super family-friendly mountain with a fantastic ski lodge. The Camden Snowbowl? Well, maybe not the best skiing in the world. But, it's the United States' most eastern ski resort - and you can see the ocean while you ski. It's where the mountains meet the sea--and, I'm not sure if you've picked up on this or not, but that's a theme in my life (my husband is from the mountains; and I'm from the sea).
Cook. Again, the cold theme kicking in here. :) I love to cook soup and my inlaws got me a cookbook I've been dreaming of. Sunday Soup: A Year's Worth of Mouth-Watering, Easy-to-Make Recipes Organized by season, the book is full of yummy sounding soups. And, the ingredient list won't send you scurrying around from store to store.
Knitting or Felting or Something. Man, it feels like months since these hands have done anything but write, change diapers and fold laundry. It's time to dig into a project.
Finish my daughters' Shutterfly calendar (again, not a good sign...). Each year I make a wall calendar that features photos of that month from the year before. It's my version of a scrapbook. And, please don't tell my kids about scrapbooks, 'else they'll be sorely disappointed because I'm not doing any.

What's on your January Planner? And, speaking of planners...what do you use as a planner?

January - Updike's Take

2011-01-04T06:26:00.000-08:00

In keeping with tradition here at Maine-ly Home, here's John Updike's take on January. If you haven't gotten your hands on A Child's Calendar, make it a resolution. It's a great book of monthly poems by John Updike with lovely illustrations depicting Vermont family life. I was introduced to the book via my daughter's Montessori school where the kids memorized the poems each month (talk about precious!).

January

The days are short,
The sun a spark
Hung thing between
The dark and dark

Fat snowy footsteps
Track the floor,
And parkas pile up
Near the door.

The river is
A frozen place
Held still beneath
The trees' black lace

The sky is low.
The wind is gray.
The radiator
Purrs all day.

The Christmas Scoop

2010-12-27T18:46:00.000-08:00

Well, I just finished washing and hanging the girls velvet holiday dresses which won't fit them next year, recycling the Christmas gift wrap, putting the advent calendars away (the rest of the Christmas decor will be around for a bit yet)

...and reflecting on the magic at our home.

The Christmas Eve present is always pajamas (gotta look cute in Christmas pics) - and, always, it seems we should just stop there. Our girls loved their near-matching PJs...and, in fact, we've had trouble getting them to take them off since.

Just a few notes and highlights...

Christmas Eve candelight service. Historically my favorite thing about Christmas because of its peacefulness. This year's service was one hour of pure anxiety. I was certain we might burn (thanks to Baby R's adventures) down our church which was celebrating its 209th (yes 209th!) Christmas Eve service.
The favorite gift of my eldest? Her ladybug Pillow Pet. Gag. How could that be?
Her second favorite gift? Ice skates and the mini backyard rink.
Her third? The cupcake maker from her Tutu (my Mom). I am, of course, envious beyond words. I wanted an easy bake oven more than you can imagine. I never got one. She basi
Are you wondering where the doorway puppet theatre I agonized over falls in the rank? No where. But, there was genuine excitement about it when it was opened. Baby R thinks it's a peek-a-boo station. By noon on Christmas Day one production was under way and I suddenly wondered if I'd made a grave mistake.
Baby R now comes down the stairs every morning going "ohhhh...." as she turns the corner where those full stockings were hung. She moves on quickly, fortunately.
Most played with toys? The tissue packs and band-aids from the girls' stockings.
Cutest gift? The apron Tutu made for Baby R. Looked especially cute over her velvet holiday dress.
My favorite moment? When I opened up the gift my daughter picked out at her "holiday fair" (the PTA holds a holiday fair full of yard sale type items - and kids come in from their classrooms and buy a gift for each member of their family for 25 cents. It is brilliant.) especially for me. A ceramic napkin holder. The proud smile on her face? Priceless.
Loved "elfing" on Christmas Eve day. We delivered goodie bags and real bayberry candles (a New England tradition). I even wore a Santa hat. My daughters refused to wear the antlers. Bah-humbug.
Will definitely elf again.
Breakage update. All snowglobes have been broken - as well as many Christmas ornaments. My husband reminds me each time we hear the "crash" followed by the "uh-oh" that it is not intentional, but rather, healthy exploration.

Merry Christmas from Maine

2010-12-24T20:05:00.000-08:00

{photo via here}

Let the magic begin.

Wherever you are, Merry Christmas from Maine.

Doorway Puppet Theatre Finished

2010-12-23T10:14:00.000-08:00

I have some creative bones. But, as referenced earlier this week, I question whether I have sewing ability within. I do not. Confirmed. I even tried channeling my mom and my nana (whose machine I was using). No success. But, with much determination, I finished the girls' doorway puppet theatre. It passes the laugh test. Barely. There will be no up-close inspections allowed. Ever. My husband says its gorgeous and the girls will love it. That's one of the reasons I married him. No more sewing for me. Ever. Okay, well, maybe not ever. But, not until I get some lessons.

Told You So

2010-12-23T10:10:00.000-08:00

As predicted, our snow globe met its demise, thanks to Baby R's fascination.

(I know, I know, I REALLY shouldn't have let her "play" with it. I didn't per se -- just had it within eye reach.)

I was disappointed (not about it breaking -- but, about losing the opportunity to watch her in awe.). She was really sad, as evidenced by the whimpering, "uhoh" (as opposed to her usual hit and run behavior).

But, in my heart I'm holding onto these images forever.

Free Gift Tags to Go Nuts About

2010-12-21T20:13:00.000-08:00

{photo via Whisker Graphics Blog}

Okay, you've heard it here before...I love Whisker Graphics. And, now she's really done it - absolutely adorable, FREE downloadable holiday gift tags for. Check 'em out. While you are there, be sure to order some Divine Twine. I'm loving mine this holiday season....the uses are endless around my home.

Happy Solstice

2010-12-21T07:19:00.000-08:00

Welcome, winter - we're happy to have you here.

What will you do today to welcome the solstice? We'll be having a quiet candle lit family evening, hopefully while snow is falling...

Update from the Field: Lessons Learned

2010-12-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

Okay, I don't have a doorway puppet theatre to show you YET.

But, I do have some lessons learned to share:

One hour is not enough time to sew a puppet theatre.
I really don't know how to sew.
Satin sucks. I mean, sure, it'll look glam as a theatre curtain - but how do you sew that stuff.
Felt isn't perfect. (I know, that's a HUGE statement coming from me.)
My Nana's sewing machine rocks.
I have no idea how to thread my Nana's sewing machine. Or, for that matter, the bobbin. So, I used the thread already there....white.
White thread (especially when not sewn perfectly) looks lousy on purple.
One really should have a plan or a pattern before they start cutting fabric. Or, ribbon.
One really shouldn't stake their Christmas plans on a sewing project if they don't know how to sew.

Stay tuned.

Look What I'm Giving the Girls For Christmas

2010-12-20T06:54:00.000-08:00

What? You don't recognize this?

Sigh.

I had great plans of making a doorway puppet theatre for my girls for Christmas. They love to give puppet shows....and who doesn't want to encourage that?

Here it is, the 20th of December, and I haven't started it. I have exactly one hour (one hour that isn't committed to work or kids) to make it. Right now. The thing is....I don't really know what I'm doing or how to sew.

Can I do it? Stay tuned.... (man, I just really put the pressure on myself, didn't I?).

Too threatening? Too Subtle?

2010-12-17T13:54:00.000-08:00

Not sure what exactly inspired me to do spell this out on my blocks...perhaps a subtitle threat, I mean, reminder? Tell me, it is too threatening, or too subtle?

Life is Good on the Candy Cane Train

2010-12-15T07:39:00.000-08:00

Sickness has been visiting here and it has had a hard time finding the door. And, in addition to feeling sorry for all of us, I'm a little annoyed at how it is wreaking havoc on my December Planner.

Though I wasn't sure it was going to happen, we were able to climb aboard The Candy Cane Train this past weekend for our annual pilgrimmage.

Have you been? It's a magical ride. Carolers. Hot cocoa and homemade cookies served by elves. Storytelling. A festively decorated train. A coastal Maine vista. And, of course, a visit with Santa. The best part? The rides (which sell out every year) are a fundraiser for Tri-County Literacy. What's not to love?

So, add this to your bucket list, and for now, climb aboard!

Have some cocoa and cookies.

Sing a little.

Enjoy the view.

Wine Wednesday: Wine for a Cause

2010-12-14T18:17:00.000-08:00

LoveVermont has a regular Wednesday feature -- Wine Wednesdays. It's one of my favorite reads...and, this week I'm borrowing the theme just so I have an excuse to tell you about a great wine-related gift idea that my very hip friend Tony told me about.

Wine for a cause.

OneHope donates a portion of each bottle (totaling fifty percent of its profits!) to charity. Each variety supports a different cause - autism, breast cancer, our troops, AIDS, children's hospitals and more.

Now, that's a gift you can feel good about! :)

OneHope was started by eight friends who worked out of their living rooms, selling wine out of their trunks, trying to help support a friend in her fight against cancer. Now an enterprise, the company has sold over 20,000 cases of wine - and donated $350,000 to charity, since its inception in June 2007. Pretty cool, huh?

There's a few wine lovers in my life I need to get shopping for.

Christmas Tree Gettin' Maine Style

2010-12-14T10:42:00.000-08:00

No, not everyone cuts their own tree here in Maine.

But, I insist on it.

It's the perfect Christmas tradition. Everyone gets bundled up. We sing carols on the way to our tree hunting grounds. We merrily pick out the perfect tree. We sip hot cocoa afterwards. Perfection. Just the way we did it when I was a kid.

At least that's the way I remembered it.

But, this year, I had flashbacks to some not so perfect aspects of that perfect Christmas tradition. The trigger of these flashbacks? My crying toddler who really wanted to be napping. My husband's hurried-I'm-doing-this-for-you-attitude and my nearly seven year old's I'm-going-to-be-as-defiant-and-contrary-as-possible-mantra.

I almost left the scene.

But, in a moment of desperation I turned around and said (cried? yelled?), "this is one of my favorite things about Christmas, don't ruin it".

And, on we went. Happy memories being created, damn it!

I climbed under the tree to take the first whack at cutting it. I almost stayed there forever. The snow on my back, the fresh pine smell, it was heaven.

Eager for everyone to have this experience...and eager for a little sawing re-enforcement, everyone took a turn.

Fresh cut tree in tow, we headed home.

Our tree stands now in our antique bay window ready for adornment.

I can't wait to see what this next Christmas tradition adventure brings...

Magic Discovered

2010-12-14T10:05:00.000-08:00

Oh, how sweet the holiday magic is in our home this year.

And, as a side note, I predict this snow globe will not survive 2010. The desire for "Tanta" and more "Snow" is grand.

Merry Stitchmas? Holiday Wishes From Our Local Yarn Store

2010-12-13T10:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Halcyon Yarn 2010 from Halcyon Yarn on Vimeo.

Okay, this is so absolutely adorable and so sums up the wonderfulness of our local (yet internationally acclaimed) fiber store.

Serious Inspiration

2010-12-07T16:48:00.000-08:00

This is the next must-have. A silk sky scarve. Read on....

Thanks to the tip from LoveVermont, I discovered Cup of Jo (This IS the way of the blogosphere, isn't? One thing leads to another and, then, hours later you find yourself immersed in something and can't remember how you got there!) whose post today was about THE most unique and fabulous scarves.

Seriously amazing.

Maine artist Maria Alexandra Vettese photographed afternoon skies in Cushing, Maine in October and had the photographs printed directly onto silk. These scarves (in a very limited production) are sure to chase those winter blues away, don't you think?

Check out the full collection.

If you don't already know about Maria Alexandra Vettesse (Mav), she is also the co-author of 3191 Miles Apart, a daily visual blog between two friends living 3191 miles apart.