In my book Suddenly Frugal: How to Live Happier and Healthier for Less, I talked about how I grew up going thrift shopping without even realizing it. That's because my Mainer mother learned to stretch a buck by reusing things and also shopping in thrift environments. These secondhand shops often … [Read more...] about Tips for Thrift Shopping
IHOP Free Pancakes on National Pancake Day
You have two opportunities to enjoy IHOP free pancakes on National Pancake Day each year. That's because there are two pancake holidays annually. One, there is IHOP free pancakes on IHOP's own pancake holiday. In 2024, that occurs on February 13. Two, then there is the nationwide National … [Read more...] about IHOP Free Pancakes on National Pancake Day
Participating Blue Star Museums in Maine
Blue Star Museums is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families. It is in collaboration with the Department of Defense and museums across America. The Blue Star Museums program offers free entry to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their … [Read more...] about Participating Blue Star Museums in Maine
Maine Library Card Benefits
You probably already knew that you could borrow more than just books at your local public library. However, are you aware of all of the benefits that come with your Maine library card? For example, you are able to download digital books via the Libby app in case you can't get to the library to … [Read more...] about Maine Library Card Benefits
Maine Slang Phrases
I grew up thinking nothing of the Maine slang phrases that my grandparents, aunt (pronounced "ahnt") uncle and cousins used regularly. However, it wasn't the same for my daughters. When my mother's brother visited us over the holidays, he used the adjective "wicked." No big deal, if you've lived … [Read more...] about Maine Slang Phrases
Target Car Seat Trade In
Twice a year, you can usually count on the Target Car Seat trade-in event. This is a great opportunity if you have an old car seat that you'd like to have recycled. Also, if you're in the market for a new car seat--or have a pregnant person in your life who is--you can save money on the … [Read more...] about Target Car Seat Trade In
Where to watch Oscar nominated movies at theaters in Maine
Wondering where to watch Oscar nominated movies at theaters in Maine? Unfortunately, unlike last year, there isn't any Maine connection to the Academy Awards. Still, if you love movies, then you'll want to pay attention. Where you can watch Oscar nominated films in Maine theaters Most movie … [Read more...] about Where to watch Oscar nominated movies at theaters in Maine
How to Watch the Super Bowl on TV at Home
Even though the New England Patriots aren't a part of this year's Super Bowl, you may have a passing curiosity about watching the big game on TV at home. Now, if you want to watch the game with fellow sports fans at a Portland area bar or restaurant, we can help, too. But back to the task at … [Read more...] about How to Watch the Super Bowl on TV at Home
Avocados: Buying, Ripening, Storing
Did you know that Super Bowl season is the number one during the year for people to buy avocados? By some estimates, we Americans consume an estimated 250 million pounds of avocados leading up to football's biggest weekend. The number two time of the year for avocados? Cinco de Mayo. Chances are … [Read more...] about Avocados: Buying, Ripening, Storing
Trivia Night Near Portland Maine
One of our goals when we moved to Kennebunk, Maine, was finding a trivia night we could go to regularly. We figured that if we focused on places near or in the Portland area, we'd do well. After trying several trivia nights at bars, restaurants and even one public library, here's what I can tell … [Read more...] about Trivia Night Near Portland Maine
Free Things to Do in Maine
Whether you're visiting Maine for the weekend or you're looking for something to add to your vacation itinerary, then you'll want to know about all the free things to do in the Southern part of the state. While vacations are undoubtedly beneficial for mental health, not everything enjoyable has … [Read more...] about Free Things to Do in Maine
Lunar New Year Celebrations in Maine
Lunar New Year. Chinese New Year. Tet. All of these describe the Asian New Year that takes place each January or February (depending on the year). In 2024, the Lunar New Year begins on February 10. The Lunar New Year holiday always begins on the night of the second new moon following the … [Read more...] about Lunar New Year Celebrations in Maine