When a family considers adopting a pet, it’s a big decision. That’s what MP told the kids when they asked for a dog. She mentioned the responsibilities involved: walking, feeding and cleaning up after the dog. MP also couldn’t help but consider our busy family schedule: how long can we leave the dog alone in the house? Can he ride in the car? And who will take care …
CrateFull of Maine: Baby Edition
Our family is expecting a baby nephew (and cousin) any day now, so you can imagine our delight when we discovered Baby Crates from CrateFull of Maine – a new gift business started by Chris Avantaggio, Nathan O’Leary and John Turner. The three entrepreneurs, who run their own successful companies, namely LiveME, Mainely SEO and Traps Eyewear, began selling gift boxes filled …
Meet the Maker: A Q+A with Mad Gab’s Founder Gabrielle Melchionda
Welcome our newest sponsor, Gabrielle (Gab) Melchionda of Mad Gab’s natural and organic bodycare, to the blog! In the early nineties, Gab started making lip balm in her mother’s kitchen just for fun. Family and friends encouraged her to sell her homemade balms at farmers’ markets and local stores, and in a few short years, her company received national attention. …
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 …
Moran’s Terrariums
MP has always had a thing for terrariums — glass containers that hold a miniature garden. Much like a fairy house, there is something magical about a terrarium. So you can imagine her delight when she came across this D.I.Y. Terrarium Kit from landscaper Kyle Moran. Each kit comes with marble chips, organic soil, dehydrated moss, wood pieces and a …
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.
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Apple Day at Maine Audubon
There are family events we look forward to each fall, and despite how much our children have grown, the Apple Day celebration at Maine Audubon in Falmouth remains a favorite. CP#1 and #2 delight in making their own cider, listening to live music, and exploring the rolling trails along the marsh. This year promises to be one of the best …
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 …
Summer Pajamas from BAOBAB Organics
Now that the kids are in elementary school, the sight of baby clothes makes MP feel nostalgic. Parents have a short grace period when it comes to choosing what their kids wear, which lends itself to the wistful pangs a Mom feels when she walks by the baby and toddler section of a store and realizes how much her kids …