This Friday kicks off what has become one of Maine’s most festive events — the Northern Lights Celebration at L.L.Bean. A forest of twinkling lights at the Freeport campus provides the perfect backdrop for photos, and if that weren’t enough, Santa and his reindeer make a cheery red barn their home on the weekends. When it gets too frosty outdoors, …
The Sweetest Sugar Cookies from Maine
While shopping at holiday craft fairs over the weekend, MP met Ann Bayer, the owner of Mama Bayer cookies. The self-taught, Falmouth baker makes decorative sugar cookies from her home kitchen. Not only are Ann’s creations thoughtfully designed, they’re also delicious. Her sugar cookies are soft, buttery and made even better with a sweet layer of frosting.
Maine Made Stocking Stuffers for All Ages
For our family, one of the highlights of the season is shopping local fairs and festivals. We get to chat with vendors, learn about the beautiful things they make and find wonderful presents to give to loved ones. Following are some of the sweetest small gifts we discovered while shopping this month. Best of all, they’re just the right size …
A Visit to Gardens Aglow
MP has been a fan of the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens (CMBG) in Boothbay for as long as she can remember. With over 295 acres of woodland and shorefront property, the lush grounds are made for people who adore plants, flowers and the Maine outdoors. CMBG is also home to a spectacular Children’s Garden, complete with fairytale cottages, a treehouse …
Bath July 4th Parade
Every once and awhile, MP goes through old photos and is reminded of a great event. Such is the case with the colorful, wonderfully quirky July 4th parade in Bath. We visited during the summer of 2013, and even though it was a hot, sweaty morning, our whole family just loved everything about this festive, community-powered parade.
Last Minute Mother’s Day Finds
How is it that Sunday Mother’s Day already? If you’re anything like MP, you’re shopping for a thoughtful gift just a few days before. Here are a few local favorites: Signature Westport Leather Clutch This clutch has a few good things going for it. First, MP loves this bag for its simple, classic style. The interior is deep, making it …
Our Favorite Maine Made Gifts
Holy cow. This is a busy time of year! MP is trying her best to slow down and enjoy the season, but it’s easy to get swept up in the holiday hubbub. There’s our daily routine to maintain coupled with holiday parties, cards to order, trees to light, cookies to make and gifts to buy — all good things for …
Craft Fair Season
One of MP’s favorite things about this time of year is the abundance of craft shows and holiday fairs throughout the state. Fortunately, CP#1 is always game to shop. She and MP will spend a Saturday morning visiting a few beloved fairs, as well as shows that are new to us. And before you think, there is no way I’m …
Pumpkin Carving Party
Every October, our dear friends host a pumpkin carving party at their house. It’s a simple celebration, but one we always look forward to during Halloween week. Each family brings their own pumpkin and an appetizer or a special dessert. Our friends make homemade pizzas and mulled cider. Of course, everyone dresses up.
Father’s Day Gifts
It’s nearly the end of the school year and there’s not a parent alive who is not busy. There are school events, barbecues and birthday parties, summer schedules to figure out, and so much more. With all of this to juggle, it’s no wonder Father’s Day seems to sneak up on us. It’s a good thing we have so many …