While our dogs Sadie and Oscar don't love July Fourth fireworks, it seems like almost every else does. If you want to head out for a show, here's a rundown of fireworks in and around southern Maine. Our listing starts just over the boarder in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and moves north along the coast … [Read more...] about Fourth of July Fireworks in Maine
Everything Else
Surprising Places to Use SNAP EBT Benefits
Did you know that SNAP EBT benefits used to be called food stamps and that recipients can use those benefits to get healthy food in places other than supermarkets? Farmers markets are one of those unexpected places that take SNAP EBT — and many markets are opening for the spring season now. Here is … [Read more...] about Surprising Places to Use SNAP EBT Benefits
Our Lunch at the Lobster Shack
You might remember us mentioning Footbridge Lobster in our roundup of southern Maine lobster shacks. Last year, we sampled their fare at the walk-up window and loved it. More recently when our friends John and Penny visited from California and asked for fresh lobster rolls, we headed in their … [Read more...] about Our Lunch at the Lobster Shack
Maine Holidays When Things Are Closed
This article outlines Maine holidays, both state and federal, when stores and other businesses may be closed. This includes banks, town offices, courts, schools, state buildings and more. You're probably already familiar with the 11 federal holidays that close things down. However, in Maine … [Read more...] about Maine Holidays When Things Are Closed
First Day of Spring in Maine
I love writing about freebies and deals you can find on the first day of spring. Why? After a snowy winter and with daylight saving time back in season, the first day of spring always gives me hope--even if I'm still wearing my winter coat. Even if you're not in the mood for things like ice … [Read more...] about First Day of Spring in Maine
Understanding Maple Syrup Grades
If you have plans to attend Maine Maple Weekend and plan on bringing home maple syrup, it is important that you understand the different grades. You see, different kinds of maple syrup have different uses. Also, you may discover that some of the farms, sugarhouses and sap houses that will be open … [Read more...] about Understanding Maple Syrup Grades
What You Need to Know About Girl Scout Cookie Sale Season
I know that so many people get excited when Girl Scout cookie sale season starts each year. That’s why I’ve put together this primer about Girl Scout cookie sales starting in Maine. I’ve dug deep to find answers to the most common questions about Girl Scout cookies. This include: What you … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know About Girl Scout Cookie Sale Season
Emergency Car Kit for Winter
Recently, we had to drive from Southern Maine to Pittsburgh. Sadly, a friend had died suddenly, and we didn't have time to get a dog sitter. So, our pups Oscar and Sadie had to come with us, thus why we drove versus flying. We also were able to book a dog-friendly hotel in Pittsburgh, but I'm … [Read more...] about Emergency Car Kit for Winter
Best Apples for Baking
While apple picking season in Maine officially ends in the fall, you can easily use apples year round for baking. Many of these varieties that are best for baking are grown right here in Southern Maine. That's why we've put together this article on the best apples for baking. Of course, fresh is … [Read more...] about Best Apples for Baking
9 Interesting Facts About Maine
I still remember my fifth grade project that required me to come up with a report with interesting facts about Maine. Everyone in our class was assigned a different U.S. state, and I was thrilled to get Maine. My grandparents lived in Maine, my mother grew up in Maine and being in Maine was a big … [Read more...] about 9 Interesting Facts About Maine
Movies Filmed in Maine
Recently, I volunteered at the Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport. If you haven't been, they have a huge collection of vintages trains, including New York City subways cars. The people I was volunteering with told me that the original version of the movie "The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3" used some … [Read more...] about Movies Filmed in Maine
Most Popular Dog Names in Maine
When I got wind of this roundup of the most popular dog names in Maine, I was excited to see if either of my pups made the cut. Well, one did and one did not. Also, ironically, both of my mother's cats had names on the most popular dog name list in Maine. Go figure. How to choose a dog's … [Read more...] about Most Popular Dog Names in Maine