Have a Super Day

Clothes Shopping for Less and Fun DYI projects!

2009-08-31T04:54:00.000-07:00

Back to school shopping has begun! Bring on the excitement! Bring on the Fun! Your shopping may likely already be done depending on where you live and when school starts! I sure do remember the excitement of back to school shopping! I thought it was almost as fantastic as Christmas! To get to go shopping, pick out the clothes and shoes and jewelry you wanted was a dream come true for me! I lived for Back to school shopping! (Thanks Mom!)

I am the Mom of a teenager, now! Spending gobs of money essentially for clothing that my daughter doesn’t even NEED seems ridiculous but I know how exciting it is! So, here are some ideas of places locally that you can shop at and not spend a fortune for back to school clothes or anytime at all! I’ve also added some links to some super neat sites for the sewer and non-sewers alike!

If your kids are elementary school age my favorite’s second hand stores are:

Lots for tots in Falmouth http://www.lotsfortotsne.com/ and
Kids Unlimited Children’s on Warren Ave. in Portland

For the teens check out these super cool places with hip, vintage and designer labels!
Zeus's Closet clothing and accessories for Teens & Young Adults
352 Warren Ave
Portland, ME 04103-1188
(207) 878-3005‎
(207) 878-5028‎

Material Objects
500 Congress St # 1
Portland, ME 04101-3473
(207) 774-1241‎

Second Time Around (our favorite!)
Exchange Street and also there is one on Fore Street, too
www.secondtimearound.net
(Lacoste shirts $5-$35, and I do not mean IZOD!)

If your child gets hand me downs add some embellishments to make them unique to the child receiving them or let them do it! They could add some plaid patches or appliqué’s. Fabric-tac and Stitch Witchery are amazing and can be found at craft or fabric stores! No sewing required with these fantastic products!

http://www.joann.com/joann/catalog.jsp?CATID=cat483848&PRODID=prd2975
http://www.save-on-crafts.com/fabritac.html

Let your kids cut the neck out of t-shirts or sweatshirts, cut holes in the knees of jeans and the cuff of sleeves of a sweatshirt for their fingers! (ask a teenager, they will explain!) to give them a trendier and different feel! Be sure t take before and after pictures of your kids’ creations!

Plan a special night where your kids and even their friends can come over and do a fashion show with there new or re-fashioned clothing! Tie some ribbon around pencils for simple party favors!

For a fun project for the younger kids cut out the entire back pockets of old jeans and glue it to the front of a notebook and you have a pocket for pen’s and pencils!

Check out this video! It is a segment from the Today Show that shows how to make a bag out of a t-shirt a stapler and duct tape!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6yDxK68OZc

This book looks like fun!
Generation T: 108 Ways to Transform a T-Shirt
by Megan Nicolay
http://www.amazon.com/Generation-108-Ways-Transform-T-Shirt/dp/0761137858

Make Skinny Jeans! So a few years ago flaired jeans were hip now skinny jeans are all the rage! I gave all of Libby's outdated jeans away BEFORE I saw this super smart video! Again, fabri-tac works if you don't have a sewing machine or access to one!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5x33A-AO-8

Have a great t-shirt that you wish were smaller? This video is a bit lengthy and the quality isn’t great but the idea is! No sewing is A okay with me! Although there is always fabric-tac… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUTd3cjLkBs&NR=1

For those of you lucky enough to have a sewing machine and in need of some guidance this is great! Get the same jumper pattern as Chloe and you get step-by-step instructions!
http://www.simplicity.com/t-sewing-videos-jumper-1.aspx

This site has lots of ideas for recycling and making neat accessories and clothing!
http://diyfashion.about.com/od/recycledprojects/tp/Recycle-Your-Clothes.htm

Get those creative juices flowing! Who knows…you might encourage you son or daughter to become a designer, or you might just become one yourself!

Great Summer Camp Conversation Starter!

2009-07-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

Do you have a child going off to camp this summer?

Even the most confident child can become shy or lonely when in a new environment without their family and friends!

Send them off with all of those t-shirts that they likely have plenty of! You know, the ones they make us buy them from their various school sports and activities, music groups that they love, concerts that they have attended, those from other camps that they went to, from places that they have visited, and from local shops and restaurants that you frequent!

Someone is bound to have gone to that same place, also loved the same band, been involved in the same sport themselves or know of someone else who has and strike up a conversation with them about it!
This is a sure fire way to break the ice and start conversations and help to make new friendships!

Looking for a little something to send along with your daughter to camp???
Send her off with a new fragrance! She'll always attribute the scent to those fond memories at summer camp!Go to www.jennifersmells.com or to Hair Artisty Salon and Spa in Falmouth and check out the Angel Food Cake Cologne! My daughter and her friends went crazy over it! The one single call I got while she was away at camp was not to tell me she missed me, not to ask me to come visit...nope, she called to ask me to send them more cologne! Okay, okay, maybe that was a shameless plug but it is, indeed, a true story!

My J-O-B Search!

2009-06-15T13:40:00.000-07:00

I started searching the paper and web for job listings several months ago. And, NO I haven't given up on jennifersmells.com what-so-ever! That is actually doing just fine and dandy but until I can sell a product an hour, 25-30 hours a week, I need to do something else, too!
I actually find this job hunting somewhat fun and educational. There are so many interesting jobs that I never even thougt about doing and many that I don't have the qualifications for! I just want a FUN job or something that I genuinely enjoy doing! I know we all feel that way, right? The closest job that I could find that might be considered "fun" was working at Toys R Us! (and that is a big MIGHT!)

What I am truly good at doesn't necessarily make me pop on a resume. Not that I even HAVE a resume! I just send along a nice letter explaining who I am, that I am a wife and mother, that I worked at Filene's for 19 years, that I run a small business, that I am a wanna-be writer and that I make party favors for a shop downtown. Wow wee! Riveting! Who wouldn't want to hire me??? (Okay, okay I will make a resume'!)

Seriously I do not have BA or degree in anything! All I have is BS! (Well, I thought it was funny!) So here I am 41 years old. Yup, I said it!
I am great at promoting people, places and things. I can throw an awesome party,make gift baskets, cater a small luncheon or event, do fantastic dispays, I love to do stock work(no idea why!) and I can make you feel and smell marvelous. I don't mind cleaning (anyone's house but my own, that is!)I am very detail oriented. I follow directions,I can write a book (yes, they are all unpublished right now. What's your point?) I would make a great personal assistant. Really, I would! I can tell by the look on your face weather or not you need a bottle of water, a cup of coffee, a glass of cabernet or a dirty martini! I swear!

I find myself thinking, lately, If I had only gone to hair doo school, or to college, this fun job hunting task would be far less painful! Then I found this real, live, fun job advertisement today: (Really, it's in the Maine Sunday Telegram!) Oh, don't let your kids see this! We might have lots of run-a-ways on our hands!

Start Immediately! TRAVELING CARNIVAL-travel entire east coast. Year round. Must be drug free. Live-in quarters provided.

You can't get much more fun than making cotton candy and selling sno-cones during the day and kickin' back having a beer outside your camper with the tallest man on earth and a lady with two heads!
Okay, maybe that is TOO much fun! Besides I know how much you all would miss me! So for the sake of all of YOU I didn't apply. Now, since I did you a favor please do one for me! Keep your eyes and ears open for someone looking for a friendly, creative, dedicated, merchandiser, party planner, party favor creator, gift basket maker, wanna be writer, personal assistant, or perfume maker would you? My lines are open! ;)

(What? I may be jobless forever,you say?)

Best of luck to all of you in the job search, too! When I see a good job posting I share it with whoever I think it might fit! So if you are looking tell me what you are looking for and I will help to the best of my ability! My advice is to keep your sense of humor and have faith!

And here is a shameless plug! Visit www.jennifersmells.com or locally at Hair Artistry in Falmouth for my products! I also make custom scents and do jennifersmells in home parties!
"You may have smelled good before, but have you ever smelled delicious?"
Have a super day! Jen

Easy, Healthy, Economical Choices When Grocery Shopping!

2009-05-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

Like many, my family has been more conscious about each and every penny we spend these days!
When talking saving on groceries I have found that many of the less expensive foods are far less healthy, often loaded with, fat, sugar, carbs, or calories! I am trying to eat healthier and lose weight! So exchanging healthy for cost just doesn't work for me or my family! Here are some changes that we have made that are either cost effective, healthy or both! (I am no expert, by the way, so these are my opinions!)

We have switched to ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. Most of it, I have found, is 90%-93% fat free and less expensive than ground beef with the same fat content! There are two types of ground turkey. The Italian seasoned ground turkey, I think, tastes more like sausage so if you want a more beef-like taste opt for the regular or natural ground turkey. Depending on how you are using it season with Worstershire sauce, steak seasoning, or your favorite BBQ sauce! (Our favorite BBQ sauce? Sweet Baby Ray's Original!)

Instead of using fattening oils opt for a cooking spray. They are usually low fat or fat free! A store brand will only cost about $3.

Olivio Butter Spray is amazing! All of my girlfriends use this, too! It cost $3 and is often on sale for less! I am not sure how but this indulgent tasting butter substitute is fat free! Yes, you heard me right, I said FAT FREE! I don't understand it but I love it!

In the frozen section, with the burgers and meatball generally, look for the big bag of Village Market, or Tyson Chichen Tenders! They are anywhere from $6.99-10.99 depending on the sale du jour! They are NOT breaded or cooked! They are great to have in the freezer when you want to have a salad, stir fry etc... Just defrost a few pieces, cook and your done! I am not big on frozen foods fan but have been really happy with these! We always have a bag in the freezer and it last a long time!I suggest the tenders because the breasts are big and with the smaller pieces, which are still big if you ask me, you have more control over how much you use!

I used to buy the fancy pasta sauces because they were generally lower in calories, fat, and carbs. Well, my friends for $1 (most of the time) Hunts has a 26 oz. can of pasta sauce in a variety of flavors! It is delicious, inexpensive and a healthy choice! We get their "no sugar added" one when they aren't sold out of it!

Love pesto? Okay, so do I but holy Toledo! Have you ever looked at the fat/calories in pesto? It is so fattening! Just buy a healthy bunch of basil and use it liberally in place of pesto in any recipes that you would generally use it in! Basil is great cooked or uncooked in sauces, on pizza, in salads, on chicken or fish! Try bruchetta or fresh tomato on French bread with a basil leaf...yum!

Eggs! They are extra-affordable these days and could there be a more versatile food than eggs? Really! The uses are endless! A must-have in our house! Fry one with a fat-free oil spray. Scramble them, make a breakfast sandwich, use them in ample recipes! We boil them and have them as a snack and in salads! Having a few people over? Make deviled eggs! Easy, healthy (in moderation)and inexpensive!

Speaking of a breakfast sandwich Check out the Freihofer outlets when buying bread, bagels ad English muffins etc.! Their prices are incredible! They have all of the name brands including the double fiber and Weight Watcher varieties! The expiration dates are often sooner so do be aware of that. Seriously, though...go there!

Now with all that talk about begals and breakfast sandwiches let's talk coffee! For those of you who perfer strong, bold, dark coffee such as Starbucks French Roast changing might seem impossible! BUT we found a coffee that is satisfying and under $3 for just shy of a pound! Cafe Goya Expresso can be found in the ethnic aisle with all of the Goya products at Shaw's or Save-a-lot groceries stores!
Oh, while you are in that aisle look for the big, red variety box of the old-fashioned looking cookies! A perfect gift for under $3! (ecspecially when visiting any older relitive! Really! check it out and then tell me your grandma wouldn't just think you were the best darn grandchild on earth if you gave her that! Best bang for your buck, I say!:)

Spaghetti squash...I love it but, geesh, that little guy can be pricey! Watch for it to be on sale! It is such a delicious, healthy alternative to pasta! How do you cook it, you ask? We cut it length wise, scoop out the innards and seeds with an ice cream scoop and place cut side down in a casserole or other microwavable dish. Add about 2 cups of water, cut a few slits in the flesh, cover and cook in the microwave on high for 10-14 minutes. Let cool enough to handle. With a fork, scrape out the squash lengthwise into a strainer and cover with a paper towel to absorb excess water. Add your favorite sauce, turkey meatballs, grilled chicken or fish! Enjoy!

Corn on the Cob is here! And it is delicious and just $1 for two ears! I used to always overcook my corn! Well those days are gone! I finally know how to cook perfect corn on the cob and I will share it with you! Boil water, add 2 T of Sugar, yup sugar, if you don't believe me ask Martha, cook corn for just 7-10 minutes drain, spray with Olivio Butter, S&P to tast and Enjoy!

Lastly shop at your local farms and stands for all of your fresh vegetables, herbs and fruit! My favorite is Jordan's Farm in Cape Elizabeth. Always buy local when available at the grocery stores, too! You'll be eating healthy foods in their prime and helping local agriculture as well as their growers! Don't forget Farmers Markets are now open in many towns! In Portland you can find it on Wed. at Monument Square and Sat. mornings until noonish at Deering oaks! (Bring a basket! You'll need it!)
There are my tips folks! I’d be happy to hear yours~

Saint Patrick's Day Fun!

2009-03-16T16:27:00.000-07:00

Here are some super easy idea's of things that you can do to celebrate that will be sure to make you and yours smile! And what's really neat is that you can do most of these things without spending any, or much, green at all!

Eat green jello
Make green eggs and ham
Buy a little shamrock plant for your desk or office
Eat mint or pistachio ice cream
Drink green tea
Add some fresh mint to your water
Wear green clothing
Go to an Irish pub and drink green beer or Guinness!
Eat green m&m's.
Say "top of the mornin' to ya?" (notice it ends with a ?)
Make shepards pie for dinner
Add a little green food coloring to the kids milk for their cereal and the cream cheese for your bagel!
Eat Lucky Charms (they're magically delicious!)
Wear a charm bracelet
Chew Double Mint gum
Wear green eye shadow
Wear green socks
Humm "I'm looking over a four leaf clover."
Go green and walk or ride your bike
Eat a green lollopop! (added bonus...it will make your tongue green, too!)
Get a Shamrock Shake! (McDonald's Seasonal Minty goodness!)
Drink your coffee from a green mug
Put a green ribbon in your hair
Paint your nails green
Use Irish Spring soap
Eat Oreo's with the green cream center
Write with a green maker or pen
Say Happy Saint Patrick's Day to everyone you meet!
Wish people good luck
And lastly, add a little Irish jig to your step when ever you get the chance!!!!

Happy Saint Patrick's Day! ~Enjoy!

An old Irish Blessing
May love and laughter light your days,
and warm your heart and home.
May good and faithful friends be yours,
wherever you may roam.
May peace and plenty bless your world
with joy that long endures.
May all life's passing seasons
bring the best to you and yours!

Visit Local Venues on a Budget!

2009-02-26T10:24:00.000-08:00

With the economy the way it is I know that my family and friends are all going out far less than we did just 6 months ago!
The problem? I absolutely love to go out!
The only way I can justify it is by being frugal...very frugal!
Being a small business owner myself I personally know the struggle and I support local business every chance I get! Here are some ideas of ways to still enjoy going out while spending far less and supporting local eateries!

Siano's Pizzeria in Deering Center is an outstanding neighborhood jaunt! I can't tell you much I love this place! It is warm and cozy. The wood fire smells so inviting and the food is...well, in three words...fan tas tic! The portions are enormous! In this economy that is a real plus! I love to eat in their dining room but on an evening when you just don't want to cook or you find Idol is coming on and you haven't even started dinner call Siano's and get dinner to go! 771-7878. We order the chicken parmesan and the lasagna with meatballs. They each come with the customary side salad. These two meals feed three of us dinner and there is at least enough left over for two lunches! It is not just the portions that Siano's provides that are appealing! The food is fresh, fulfilling and flavorful!

The Great Lost Bear. You all know and love this fantastic, Forest Avenue, locally owned gem, of that I am sure! But did you know that every Thursday night The Great Lost Bear showcases a brewery, a style of beer or hosts a battle between rivals?
They have annual seasonal beer introductions and Microbreweries debut their beers at the Bear! Thurs. nights they offer beer specials and give out fun prizes! Mondays and Tuesdays are short beer nights! They serve 23 ounce beers at pint prices!
The Bear's extensive menu offers mouthwatering burgers, tasty salads, wings, wraps and sandwiches all at reasonable prices. On a night when funds might be scarce go to The Great Lost Bear and order the nachos! They are the best I have ever had and will literally fill up you and your family, or several of your friends, all for under $12! Get there early if going on short beer or microbrew nights because they are usaully packed!
The staff and owners are all fun and terrific! Good times are in the air at Thee Great Lost Bear! http://www.greatlostbear.com/

Una Wine Bar, is on Fore Street in the Old Port, around the corner from Brian Boru. This is a nice place to go for a great drink. I know, what you're thinking! Everyone is always telling me that they are too expensive! But not if you know when to go! Every Monday through Saturday from 4:30pm – 7pm and all night Tuesday, úna hosts an unbeatable Happy Hour! There have special happy prices on everything! At 4:30 the martini menu has many offerings from the classic (with an olive or a twist) to exotic for just $4! Pretty impressive, right? During this happy time, they also have a number of wines by the glass on special for $4 each! Their chef offers Happy Hour favorites such as cheese plates, marinated olives, and fresh rosemary foccacia, in portions meant for sharing, all at special prices! Cosmo anyone? http://www.unawinebar.com/

The Dogfish Cafe. This darling little place on the corner of Congress and Saint John Street is one of our favorites! We love to go and sit at the bar and share an appetizer. Their Mozzarella is out of this world! This dish is fresh mozzarella breaded and topped with fresh parmesan cheese and marinara sauce. They serve it with a generous amount of fresh bread for $8.99. Their open faced quesadilla is topped with marinated chicken, diced bacon, tomatoes, scallions, black beans, cheddar cheese, topped with seasoned sour cream & fresh mango salsa ($9.99)If you happen to be at The Dogfish when they have beef stew DO get it! You will not be disappointed!(You can thank me later!) The bartenders and wait staff alike are all incredibly friendly and very entertaining! http://www.thedogfishcafe.com/menu.html

North Star Cafe up on the hill, Munjoy that is, is a rather exciting, eclectic place to go for a delightful sandwich, soup or salad! They offer local, fresh, organic and vegan ingredients! Their sandwiches come with, not fries or chips but with a small salad! I love that! You could easily cut the cost and share a sandwich with a friend and I am sure you would both be full and satisfied, only wanting more because of the taste not your tummy! They have live entertainment, open mic nights and even tango lessons! Fun to watch or learn! Here is a link to their calendar of events! http://pub14.bravenet.com/calendar/show.php?usernum=1135125992

You cannot beat White Heart for a great drink but have you ever eaten there? Holy Toledo! The food and prices are amazing at this cozy, but oddly spacious, bar at 55 Congress Street in downtown Portland! Let's start with the drinks! Monday nights, with a few exceptions, they offer half price bottles of wine! Wed. nights are $3 well drinks. Everynight they have what they call Happy White or Happy Red for $5 a glass! Saturday's drink special is $5 martinis and during Sunday Brunch they have $2 bloody Marys! That's bloody incredible, wouldn't you say? While I am on the subject of brunch theirs is one of my favorites! Delicious, fresh and well presented and again, reasonaly priced from $5-$9! Their breakfast dish called The White Heart is terrific! It is eggwhites, brie, tomato and fresh herbs along with homefries, bread or a muffin for $7. Now onto app's and dinner offerings! Their appetizer of 3 mini teriyaki burgers topped with grilled pineapple, red onion and chipotle catsup comes with homemade pesto tortellini salad for $9! White Heart's signature app. is Sweet Potato Cakes. These are outstanding! They are sautéed and topped with a garlic aioli ($6) For dinner you can get a roasted quarter of a chicken, mashed potato, veggies and homemade gravy for...drum roll please...$9!
My husbands' favorite is an oh-so-tender 6 oz. flank steak with a teriyaki sauce and wasabi mashed potato for $10! (yum!)
Although their dessert selection is limited they all sound divine and are each only $5! I don't believe children are allowed at White Heart morning, noon, or night so get a sitter! http://www.thewhiteheart.com/menus.html

The Empire Dine and Dance, also on Congress, not only has fabulous live music and entertainment BUT their entire menu from soup to entrees is $4-$12! You can support the arts and a local eatery at the same time! Need I say more? For a list of artists and event prices go to http://portlandempire.ning.com/

I know that it is just so darn nice for your mind and spirit to get out from time to time and mingle with friends and family even when money is tight! So pick that one thing you long for, be it a martini or a dessert and just get that one thing! Or share or split something! Not only will it help our waist lines, it will help our wallets, too! Some restaurants allow you to split an entree for a minimal fee. If looking for a healthier option, soups, chili and house salads are offered virtually everywhere and are often inexpensive. Sometimes I will get a salad and my husband the soup and we share! Also, getting your favorite meals to go is a great idea anytime! You won't have that temptation to order those appealing drinks, or fattening appetizers or desserts! Remember, tap water is free and good for you! I know that the restaurants would prefer that we drink sodas, beer and wine, too, but my theory is better some business than no business at all!

If you frequent a locally owned eatery with great food or drinks at fair prices, or know of a great Happy hour tell us about it! We want to know!

And please don't forget about this fantistic event! http://www.restaurantweekme.com/index.htm
RestaurantWeekME™ is a ten-day dining event -- Sunday, March 1, through Tuesday, March 10, 2009. The idea is really very simple. During the event, chefs will be serving specially priced, three-course meals. Everyone is invited to take advantage of this opportunity to sample new restaurants or visit their favorite spots.

Looking for a great gift for someone or a sweet treat for yourself? Go to www.jennifersmells.com I would love to make a product for you!
e-mail is jen@jennifersmells.com
Join my facebook group Jennifersmells has the best smelling stuff...ever!

Fun things to do for the whole family!

2008-12-27T06:27:00.000-08:00

Well I am a Mom and a person who likes to have things to do...by "things" I mean anything other than housework!
Here is a list of free or almost free things that you and your kids or grand kids can do this snowy winter in Maine, or in any snowy state!
Many are not new ideas at all! Just reminders!

Call your talented friends! Ask them to teach you their craft whether it is knitting, baking, making jewelry or sewing!

If you have 'em, cross country ski in a park, golf course or cemetary
(or in your neighborhood if it's safe to!)

Let your kids give you a manicure or makover!

Have a game or a movie night (or simply give the kids the remote!)
and don't forget the popcorn!
Speaking of games, look through the ones you have!
I bet you will find a few that you forgot about!
(I plan on playing Careers and Clue this week!)

Invite your friends over and have a re-gifting yankee swap!
Seriously, we all got at least one gift that we just cannot use or already have. Am I right? Ya know, If you got a sweater that is the wrong size and you have no idea where to return it or your child has braces and got candy and gum that they can't eat! This is the perfect way to trade it in! Great way to have free fun and recycle!
Or
Host a yankee swap where everyone must bring something that they made! Who knows, a kids painting could wind up being the most sought after gift and how proud would they be???

Bake cookies!

Go to the library and take out that book you have been meaning to read
for a dogs age or re-red a favorite from your youth!

I can't take credit for this but either my friend George or Elaine came up with this fun idea that we vow to finally do in "09!"
Host an Iron Chef sort of party! Pick a food item like tomato, squash, apples, potato...anything, really and have each family make something out of that food! Everyone gets one vote of what dish they think is the best or you have a panel of judges! Prizes can be as simple as homemade ribbons that the kids can make (a great activity for them at the party!)
I have a neat fun way, that I learned from my Mom, of making ribbons if anyone wants to learn!

Cut out photo's and sayings from magazines and put them in a folder!
Your kids will enjoy seeing what they liked in "09 years from now!

Have a snowball fight.

Write a letter to someone you miss.

Look through those recipe books for some new recipe's to make.

Make a time capsule.

Go to your local community center to walk safely inside or for a minimal fee swim or relax in the Jacuzzi!

Host an old fashioned pot roast or a bean suppah and assign each family to bring something specific so all the bases are covered! (app's, entree, sides, bread & butter, comdiments, dessert etc...)That way it isn't a big expense for anyone!

Look through craft books and make something!

Use that pasta, bread or ice cream maker that has never been taken out of the box!

Write a story with illustrations.

Go through those old photo's! Put them in an album or make magnets or coasters out of your favorites!

Paint (even if the kid's are young finger painting is a blast!)

Make home made soup and share it with a neighbor!

Put some music on and dance!

Go to an open houses! It's free and you get see some suprising and wonderful uses of different spaces, paint in colors you love but might not have ever thought to use and often a great new awareness and love of the home you already live in!

Go ice skating or sledding.

Make painted pasta necklaces and wear them!

Bring those old unused clothes and toys that are piling up to Goodwill or Salvation Army. (finally!)

Make Cd's of your favorite songs to give as gifts throughout the year!

Have your kids show you those things you don't know but wish you did on the computer! You will learn something new AND your kids will be thrilled to have taught you something! (Like Facebook for instance, I have a facebook page but I don't understand how to use it! Nope...I just don't get it!)

Make a snowman or woman.

Pick up an old or forgotten hobby whether it is playing an instrument, calligraphy or knitting!

Gather together all of your favorite recipes, make copies of them, and create your own recipe book to give as gifts! Use a photo or have your kids draw a picture for the cover!

Visit local Art galleries! They are often free or inexpensive!
You never know what inspiration you might find and artists welcome the company!

Do a puzzle! Put in a place that anyone passing by won't be able to resist tyring to place a piece or two!

Have an ice cream sundae buffet! Toppings and ice cream are really inexpensive and swhat fun you will have! (and yes you can eat ice cream in the winter!)

Use your phones and cameras and take a walk after it has snowed, or even while it is snowing, and take pictures! The trees are breath-taking covered in the glistening new fallen snow! Print out the favorites and make cards out them by simply adhearing one with a glue stick to a folded over piece of card stock! (who knows, you might unleash a budding future artist or photographer!)

And for those chores that you just have to do, make them into a fun contest!
See if you can empty the dishwasher in 5 minutes.
See who can fold their pile of laundry first, or who can pick up their room the quickest! The prize can be as simple as a cup of hot chocolate!

Lastly, as my mother might say, be sure to feed the birds and squirrels your stale bread, nuts or over ripe fruit! They surely appreciate every scrap they get this time of year!

If you have any ideas of things that your family likes to do, or if you should happen to do something from this list and enjoy it by all means tell us about it! Just hit "comments" below!
If you go through my old blogs I surely have other ideas, too!

Like this blog or past ones??? Forward it to your friends and family!

For anyone in need of a great Valentine's gift, Birthday present or a treat for yourself all of my jennifersmells product's are 20% now through February 25th!
If you live in the greater Portland area we will deliver your products to you and save you the shipping! e-mail or call me to place an order! jen@jennifersmells.com or 879-1369!Happy Valentine's Day! and Happy School Vacation one and all!

A Great Gift Idea To Give or Receive!

2008-12-01T12:09:00.000-08:00

If you are anything like me I am always scrambling just before a Birthday party or other special occasion to get the gift wrapped, or more commonly, "bagged"! And I seldom have thought ahead to get a card! I love giving cards! I think a card can mean more than the gift itself so the fact that I often don't think to buy one aggravates me!

I can't tell you how many times I have watched as the guest of honor opens their cards and laughs out loud in delight or cries and hugs the thoughtful card giver as they pass the greeting around for all to see! There I sit waiting, embarrassed and annoyed with myself, in anticipation to announce, when they are handed my gift, that
the cardless present is from me and that I "forgot" the card at home!
Anyone with me on this?

So many times I have hung my head low when I see someone that I sincerely MEANT to send a card to when they suffered the loss of someone near and dear to them, or had a special happening in their lives that seemingly went unnoticed by me!

Well, my Mom saved the day and gave me this Hallmark software kit for my Birthday and I love it! I love it so much that I just have to tell you about it! I know that we are all trying to be careful about spending our money on useful things and I think this Hallmark program is a great gift to receive or a fantastic gift to give! (No I don't work for Hallmark!)
I have used this countless number of times! Even my daughter makes her own cards for her friends and teachers! It is super easy to use! It provides hundreds of cards for every occasion! I can change the dialog in any of the cards, add a joke, and a persons name or nick name to personalize it and then print it out! And best of all I can let those who are celebrating, mourning, recuperating, those I want to thank, that I miss, that I love, or are thinking about know that I care about them!
Is there any gift better than that???

Here is a link to it!
http://www.hallmarksoftware.com/products/Card_Studio_2009/main.aspx
You can still find the 2008 edition, which is the one I have for about $20
(The site may try to sell you their paper but any regular computer paper, or card stock, will do!)

Oh, and Thanks Mom! Great gift! Yikes...I hope I remembered to send you a Thank you card!!!

Tip: a nice addition to this Hallmark software would be some colorful envelopes and some stamps!

Do you like this gift idea or do you have a neat gift idea to share?
click on "Comments" just below and tell me your thoughts!

Also, a reminder about Ladies Night!
Treat yourself to a night of pampering and do a little shopping, too! Join me at Jonathans Salon and Spa on Fore Street in Portland this Thursday night, Dec. 4th from 4-9 for Ladies Night! $25 will get you your choice of 4 services at the salon, wine, cheese, door prizes and discounts on nearly everything! I will be there selling my jennifersmells products! Call 871-8942 for more info. And to make a reservation! Space is limited!
Hope to see you there! Jen!

Turn Your Trash into Cash!

2008-11-05T07:22:00.000-08:00

You know those receipts that we get from the grocery store that end up in our cars, or crumpled up in our pockets, purse or trash???
I just have to tell you about an easy, productive use for them!

My friend and neighbor, Elaine Picinni, is active in many community organizations but one that she feels very passionate about is Project FEED.
Her wonderful husband, Pat O'Halleran, passed away last March after a battle with Cancer. During the last year of his life Pat became the 'Super Shopper' for Project FEED, a food pantry serving the Portland area. Pat hunted for bargains, coupons and rebates but his major accomplishment was starting a SHAW'S Rewards program turning receipts into cash for the pantry. This continues as his legacy to his friends, family and to Project FEED.
SHAW'S Supermarket will give $1 for every $100 worth of groceries bought (with some exclusion)to the project!
This used to require collection receipt bur it has just recently changed!

In order to participate, here's what you do:
Go online to www.shaws.com/neighborhoodrewards and link your Shaws card to Project FEED by putting in FEED's identification number. That number is 49001018456.
(If you don't have a Shaw's Rewards card, you can get one at the Service Desk at your favorite Shaw's. However, you still must do the online registration in order to participate.)
You can link up to 4 organizations to your card if you want.
You must re-register annually. I have no idea how or if Shaw's will remind you to re-register.
If you have family or friends with no computer access of their own, you can register their cards to be linked with FEED. You just need the Rewards Card number.
Project FEED will receive quarterly checks from Shaw's for 1% of the total of your qualifying purchases made on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays (tobacco, lottery tix, stamps, alcohol, etc. don't qualify).

What is Project Feed? Project FEED (Food Emergency Exchange Depot) is an emergency food depot located in the basement of Woodfords Congregational Church. It was founded in 1975 by a group of clergy and lay-people concerned with the growing number of Portland residents who were without a reliable source of food and items in emergencies. Project FEED is unique because they not only provide food, parishable AND non-perishable, they also provide personal health, hygeine and other non-food items for 1-7 days per person in the household to take home for individuals and families in crisis. Usually this is the bridge people need to their next source of income. Project FEED is supported by many churches and synagogues in the Greater Portland area and is staffed completely by volunteers!

You can help to fight hunger in our community one receipt at a time!

Thanks for your willingness to jump through a few hoops to support Project FEED! Register your card today!!

Do you have a comment or know of other simple things that we can do to help a local organization? Click on "comments" just below and tell us about it!

Ya know what? I just decided something! I will donate $1 to Project FEED from the purchase of any of my seasonal Gingerbread products! In other words, purchase a Gingerbread Scrub, Cologne or Powder Room Courtesy Spray and I will donate $1 from each product sold to Project FEED! Where can you smell or see my products, you ask? Visit Hair Artistry Salon and Day Spa in Falmouth right next door to Dunkin' Donuts in the West Falmouth Crossing Shopping Center, or go to jennifersmells.com!
Questions? e-mail me @ jen@jennifersmells.com!

Good Friends & Elizabeth Gilbert

2008-09-24T07:55:00.000-07:00

Our book club, like many others, just read Eat, Pray, Love.
How lucky for us that the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, was at the Merrill Auditorium in Portland recently! I was thrilled when I found out that she was coming before I started reading the book and a little bit disenchanted about spending $30 for a ticket midway through the book. I found, at times, it to be somewhat wordy, redundant, and personally, somewhat difficult to relate to.

I finished the book at 3:26 the afternoon of the lecture. In the end I did grow to understand and appreciate Elizabeth. I was emotional several times during her journey and was rather pleased with the book afterall. Although, much to my dismay, I didn't LOVE it. I really wanted to LOVE it! I will have to settle for I liked it. What I did love, though, was Elizabeth herself! She was funny, quirky and inspiring!

Six of my girlfriends and I carpooled downtown to see her. We all enjoyed hearing her speak whether we loved the book, liked the book or didn't even finish the book! She was captivating, humorous and enjoyable. We left the Merrill Auditorium and gathered at a local restaurant and conversed about both the book and the lecture. We had a great, fun evening out, which none of us get much of a chance to do; sharing conversation, our thoughts, laughter and our points of view as we ate interesting food and drank a tasty beverage or two.
I am happy that I finally read Eat, Pray, Love. Happy that I got the chance to hear and see Elizabeth Gilbert in person. And so happy to have such fantastic, enjoyable friends to share it with!

I look forward to the prospect of other authors coming to Portland to share their stories in person with us as well!

Oh, an added bonus was that the proceeds from the event will go directly to support the work of The Telling Room, a non-profit dedicated to imbuing kids ages 8 to 18 with a love of storytelling through the introduction of positive role models. I love that!!!

Picnic like no other!

2008-09-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I must tell you all about this event that I was part of this past weekend.
It was...in three words...fan tas tic! It was called Picnic Music & Art's Festival. Lincoln Park on Congress Street in downtown Portland was full of activity and excitement, the likes of which, I have never seen before!
Canopies were pitched and all sorts of interesting people set up shop!
You could find prints, artwork, incredible bags, jewelry, bird houses, antiques, clothing, pottery, baby bibs, bath and body products, fun plush stuffed animals, and even tarot card readings! What a talented, eclectic group!

It was well planned out and well organized. Their attention to detail was obvious!The posters were whimsical, fun and eye catching (and everywhere!) They even had the Picnic logo on their table umbrellas! The music was great and entertaining! They left large grassy spaces for people to lay a blanket and have a picnic! How neat is that?
Whether you were selling your goods or services, shopping, were in a band or listening to the music it was a great time to be had by all!

I would find it hard to believe that if you live in the greater Portland area that you didn't see a poster on a telephone pole, in an area shop, restaurant, business, or see an ad in the newspaper for this well publicized event!
If you, somehow, didn't know about it, or if you just couldn't make it, don't fret! Simply Go to www.picnicportland.wordpress.com and click on vendors. The list is there of all who participated and with one click you can be at many of these crafters web sites! Be sure to shop with these hard working, talented, local folks! You are likely to get fantastic, personal, customer service and a great deal of gratitude!

I use this word often but it fits so I will use it again, BRAVO to all of you who spent your valuable time to present Portland with such an exciting, cultural venue!
My vote is to have the Picnic Music & Art's Festival once a month from June-Sept.! Is that asking too much???
Oh, I must give a big THANKS & shout out to Mother Nature for providing us with a foggy at times, yet relatively warm, sunny and, most importantly, rain-free day!

The sales person in me must tell you that if you were at Picnic and didn't purchase something from me but wish you had you can reach me at www.jennifersmells.com! If you live nearby I would be happy to meet you with your order and save you the delivery cost! I also sell my products At Hair Artistry Salon and Day Spa in the Hannaford Plaza at 65 Gray Road in Falmouth!
Have a super day!

Jen!

Three Cheers!

2008-09-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

My family and I just had an amazing, inexpensive evening out!
We packed up our cooler with tasty treats, some crudités, fried chicken, potato salad, and soft drinks. We gathered our binoculars, sweatshirts, books, playing cards and lawn chairs. We knew our wait would be lengthy so we were prepared!
If you live here in Maine you are likely to know where we were heading! Surely you have heard about the FREE concerts that L.L. Bean in Freeport provides for us in the summer months! The place fills up quickly with lawn chairs and blankets. Folks that live nearby stake out their space early in the day, or even the night before, to ensure that they will have a prime location for these events! (Note to self... must find a friend that lives in Freeport by next summer!) We got there nearly 3 hours before the concert was to begin and were hard pressed to find a spot but we did and we had a great view!

We went to see an amazing blues performer named Keb Mo. I was not familiar with him but my husband and daughter were. He was terrific! His band was fabulous! Certainly worth the wait!

After listening to several songs I noticed a person in the far corner of the stage signing for the hearing impaired. My heart sank, at first, to think of the people that could not hear the sounds of this soulful music but, on second thought, I was glad and so grateful that through this person signing for them they could actually feel and hear the music! Wow! Talk about a gift and a talent! I got out my binoculars to get a closer look at this intriguing person giving the hearing impaired something that we often take for granted to find that she was our friend and neighbor Meryl Troop! I knew that she signed but had never seen her in action! She was amazing! I actually couldn't decide who to watch! Keb Mo or Meryl! She was such a delight! Keb Mo even thanked her personally and told her that she was beautiful! I am sure that he was also thoroughly impressed, as were we, by how well she knew his music!

Three cheers and a great big THANK YOU to L.L. Bean for providing these free, clean, fun family events, to the band for their incredible music and to Meryl Troop for her fantastic voice and ability to "sing" with the likes of Keb Mo. Bravo!

To Post a comment click on comment just below! Have a super day!

Aromatherapy!!!

2008-08-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

If buying a new outfit for a trip, back to school, graduation, a wedding,
or any special occasion, treat yourself to a new fragrance!
Just like you are bound to remember that outfit you wore, the music
the band played, the food that you ate, the atmosphere, the weather, or who you were with you will also remember that new scent, likely, every time you smell it for the rest of your life! Wow!!!
You can get a whiff of a certain scent and instantly remember the times when you smelled it before, or who was wearing it, even if it was many moons ago, am I right???
It is amazing how strong the sense of smell is!!!

I'm not saying you HAVE to splurge on a new bottle every time an event comes along. (Although I am cologne...a memory collector myself and must have the bottle!)
A less expensive option is to find a scent you love and get an item in the line like a shower gel, soap, a body spray or a lotion! If cologne, or body product's aren't your thing buy a new candle or a new shampoo in an aroma you love!

The outfit you bought may tear or fray, get too tight or soon be out of style but a fragrance...now that you can wear as often you like! But don't get into the rut of wearing the same fragrance all the time, everyday, for years! (Too predictable!!!)
It is great to have your favorite, or your "signiature scent", but altenate that with other fragrances you love, too! Go crazy! Where a different scent now and then!

Remember...too much of a good thing is too much of a good thing!!! Wear your fragrance lavishly but lightly! You don't want your fragrance to walk into the room before you do!!!

Here are some of my fragrance memories. What are yours???

Loves Baby Soft, Tatiana, Foxfire Cologne's and Gee Your Hair Smell's Terrific, Body on Tap & Lemon Up shampoo's=Jr.High & High school, Laura Ashley#1 bought on my Senior class trip to England, Lauren for my Prom and graduation, My music teacher's Cinnabar, My mothers Hawaiian White Ginger and a huge bottle of Oscar De Laurente, My grandmothers White Shoulders and Halston, my Dad wearing Polo, Robert and Metropolis, Giorgio at the Mall, Dianne+Alyssa Ashley musk and walking to Zayers,Louise and LuLu, Fred Hayman's 273 at Filene's in Boston, Jon and Drakkar Deodorant only, Kim and Bill Blass, Sheila and I and Chanel, Beautiful on my wedding day, Kathleen wearing Aromatic's Elixir, Jill loving Lagerfeld,Scott and Obsession, Beth and Romance,Hanae Mori and Sally, Verbena on Newberry Street, Eternity while in Florida, Eternity and Kimberly, Dan wearing Eternity, Britt and Nicole, Happy the whole summer of 2002, Mariss,Boston & Polo Blue, Angel & Colleen wearing wings, Pajama party+Samsara with Jon and Sara! (Just to name a few...!!!)
My most recent fixation is a fragrance of my own called Angel Food Cake!
Go to www.jennifersmells.com, or locally to Hair Artistry in Falmouth, to try it for yourself and to see my entire collection of yummy scents and body and home products!

TO POST YOUR fragrance memories, or comments SIMPLY CLICK ON "COMMENTS" JUST BELOW! HAVE SUPER DAY! Jen!

The Amazing Blue Sky

2008-08-04T07:09:00.000-07:00

I just have to spread the word about this fantastic restaurant called Blue Sky in the recently renovated, historic Atlantic House Hotel in the blast from the past area of York Harbor, Maine. My husband and I happened upon it recently. Well, we didn't go there by accident, we went there because my husbands good friend, and former owner of a Portland eatery, bartends there. Bartends sound like an extreme understatement! He is like a drink magician! Add to that the stylish, cozy but sleek, elegant and expansive layout of the space and WOW, we were amazed! The place just went on and on! It has a brick oven area where you can watch a team of chefs firing up lots of tasty treats! If sitting at the bar you can listen to a jazzy vocalist singing her heart out on a porch overlooking the coastal strip.
To eat dinner there it could get a bit pricey but for a few delicious, filling appetizers and impressive cocktails at the bar we went away spending an oh-so-worth-it $60!
I, myself, plan on splurging and going there for dinner! After all, as the saying goes, you only live once and I want to live there!!!

Go to www.jennifersmells.com to see my Essence of Maine Collection of fresh, invigorating Bath, Body and Home products!

Easy crowd pleasing breakfast!

2008-07-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are in the midst of summer! Whether you have family and friends visiting or your kids are having a sleepover this is sure to please them all!

Instead of piling the breakfast options on the counter or shouting out the choices to your guests, pull out a few platters, pedestal cake plates, baskets---whatever looks good together and make your own little "Continental Breakfast!"
This will actually make your morning less hectic and you, my friend, will look like a super hero! (cape optional)

Put donuts or bagels, muffins or English muffins on a nice pedestal cake plate...if it has a glass cover even better! Put some fresh fruit in a basket or on a platter. Pick up some of those cute little boxes of cereal or pop tarts and put them in a basket. If serving yogurt fill a bowl with ice and put individual yogurts and even little bottled waters in it! If you can, bring a toaster, if necessary, to where you are setting up.
If you have pitchers or carafes, dust them off! Now is the time to use them!(Much fancier than plain old milk or juice cartons, am I right?)
Put out some real or disposable bowls and plates and put the utensils in a coffee cup.
You get the picture! Whatever you serve, even if it is just one thing, make it a look nice!

You can set the table or counter top up the night before so you don't have anything to do but assemble the food in the morning! Put the coffee on and you are done!
If you happen to get the newspaper take the sections apart and lay it out nicely so everyone can easily grab the section that they would like to read!
Put some upbeat classical music on for a nice relaxing jazz breakfast!

This doesn't have to cost an arm and leg! You can go to any Nissen or Friehofer discount bakery for super cheap pasteries, crumb cakes and donuts! Or Pick up what is on sale, or even a day old, at your local grocery store!!! You can easily microwave any baked goods for 30 or so seconds to make them soft again!

The minimal clean up will be well worth it when you see how delighted and special your guests of all ages will feel by your effort and presentation!
What a way to start the day! Happy and well fed!

Speaking of sweet treats...go to www.jennifersmells.com and check out my dessert collection! I have bath and body products in several mouth watering aromas!!!

A great gift and a great cause!

2008-06-12T11:47:00.000-07:00

My husband bought me the neatest thing!
You know those reusable bags that all the groceries stores sell these days???
Well at Whole Foods they have this fabulous 100% organic cotton bag with great pockets that zippers itself into a little burlap pouch! It's great to use as your grocery bag, (obviously!), but I also use it to bring our towels and suits to the boat, to cart stuff to the gym...it's a great tote for anything!
PLUS, the fantastic bonus is that by buying this one neat bag, that you will love to carry, for $30...drum roll please...it will provide 100...yes, I said 100...nutritious meals to hungry children through the UN World Food Program!!! Wow, right???
Don't know what to get someone for a Birthday or graduation gift???
Here is the answer! Everyone can use a new bag with benefits!!!

Boosterblog

2008-06-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

Be sure to rate my blog and many others at http://www.boosterblog.net

Bruschetta!

2008-06-02T05:06:00.000-07:00

If you are anything like me you looove pizza!I am always trying to cut calories and fat so I don't eat pizza often but I crave it!I found a great solution, though...Bruschetta! Great for a summer barbecue, an appetizer at a party, a lovely lunch or snack!
Pre heat oven to broil, low.

In a small bowl put about 1/4 of a cup of olive oil and add 3-4 cloves of finely chopped garlic. Set it aside. Then finely chop up the following and put in a bowl or canning jar~
(make it ahead and store in fridge for up to a week!)
4 or 5 ripe plum or vine ripened tomatoes (locally grown preferred!) disregard as many seeds as possible
1/4 of a (Spanish) white onion
1/4 of a red pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
fresh bunch of basil leaves, chopped, plus a dozen or so whole leaves.
juice from 1/2 a lime
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
(Add more or less or delete any of the ingredients to your liking!!!)

then you will need:1 baguette French bread or similar Italian bread.
Slice up the bread in thin slices. Place them on a cookie sheet and drizzle the garlic/olive oil mixture over them.
Put them in the oven with the rack about 6 inches from the top. Cook for about 4-6 min. or until lightly toasted. When ready to serve put a generous spoonful of the bruschetta on each piece of bread and whole basil leaf and enjoy! Very easy, very fresh and Oh so tasty!

Share Those Lilacs!!!

2008-05-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year when lilacs are in full bloom! They come and go far too quickly, don't they???
Do you ever see a lilac tree with only a few measly blossoms on it???
Do you know why that happens??? It is often because no one cuts them!
The more lilacs you cut the better your tree will blossom next year! Neat huh???
So...prune that bush! Cut those lilacs!!! Put them in every room in your house!
They are only in bloom for a few weeks so enjoy them while you can!!!
Share them with teachers, friends, relitive's and neighbors!
It will surely put a smile on their faces and will likely make your lilac trees more bountiful next year!
It's a win~win situation!!!

Ahhh...I looove the smell of spring!!!
Do you??? Go to www.jennifersmells.com where you will find a variety of Maine scents, or create a scent of your own!

A valuable lesson to learn at an early age!

2008-04-18T07:21:00.000-07:00

Ya know how our portions in the U.S. are out of controll, right???
If you have a young child in your life this is the best time to tech them portion control!
Buy their favorite cracker's...Gold Fish, Cheeze-it's...what ever they love!
Then show them how to read the label and count out the # of crackers for one serving!
What fun they will have! Not only will they enjoy doing this it will likely improve their counting skills as well!!!
You can even show them how to measure a serving of cereal or pasta!
If kids start to do this at an early age it won't feel like such an inconvenient chore as an adult!
They will learn a very valuable lesson that will possibly last a life time!

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!!!

2008-03-17T05:53:00.000-07:00

Do something fun today wether your are Irish or not!
Here are some simple idea's that will be sure to put a smile on your face!

Eat green jello. Make green eggs and ham. Buy a little shamrock plant. Eat mint or pistachio ice cream.
Drink green tea. Add some fresh mint to your water. Wear green clothing. Eat green m&m's.
Say "top of the mornin' to ya?" (notice it ends with a ?) make shepards pie for dinner.
Add a little green food coloring to your milk. Eat Lucky Charms (they're magically delicious!).
Wear a charm bracelet. Chew Double Mint gum. Wear green eye shadow.Wear green socks.
Humm "I'm looking over a four leaf clover." Go green and walk or ride your bike.
Eat a green lollopop! (added bonus...it will make your tongue green, too!)
Drink your coffee from a green mug. Put a green ribbon in your hair. Eat Oreo's with the green cream center.
Write with a green maker or pen. Get together with your friends!
Say Happy Saint Patrick's Day to everyone you meet!
And lastly, add a little Irish jig to your step when ever you get the chance!!!!

Oh...Happy Saint Patrick's Day! ~Enjoy!

Irish Blessing
May you always have...
Walls for the winds
A roof for the rain
Tea beside the fire
Laughter to cheer you
Those you love near you
And all your heart might desire.

Make someone's day!

2008-03-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

Drop a coin or two in a parking lot or on a sidewalk once in a while!
The person who finds it will feel like it is their lucky day!
Think about it! You could make someone happy for a mere penny, dime or quarter!

People are always looking for a "sign" or special thing to happen to help them make a decision when they are on the fence about something, am I right? Finding a simple coin could possibly change someone's life!

Has finding a "lucky penny" or change ever helped you make a decision or made your day???

Simple spa treat for yourself or gift for another!

2008-03-06T04:32:00.000-08:00

This couldn't be any easier!
Kids can even make this for gifts!

In a small bowl mix together some dried lavender
and course salt or sea salt!
Put it in a small decorative or canning jar!

Make a label on the computer, or write one that says:
Lavender Bath Salts made especially for____( name)____.
Pour into warm water for a relaxing, soothing bath!

Use a whole puncher to punch a hole in the label
and tie it on to the jar with a piece of ribbon!
A great simple homemade gift for someone special or treat for yourself !

Check out my web site http://www.jennifersmells.com/ to make everyday smell just a little sweeter!

Teach your child to prepare an entire meal!

2008-03-04T07:10:00.000-08:00

Not just part of a meal, a whole meal! A salad with a store bought or home made dressing, an easy soup or appetizer, warmed up rolls from a local bakery, and an entree! A roast, spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna...let them choose their favotite and show them how to make it!
Of course you can't forget the dessert! It can be as easy as a bowl of ice cream with some hot fudge or something a little more complicated like cheesecake!
Look on-line or sit down together and look through some recipe books! Cooking is fun and easy if someone takes the time to show you how to do it! Wouldn't you agree?
Your child will gain the confidance to cook, they will have an entire meal that they can make for a life time and fond memories of making a meal with you! Who knows...it may just be something you end up doing together on a regular basis!

Do you have any family favorite recipe's that your kids enjoy making???

...a sure fire way to always be on the "guest list" is to be a good cook!

Do you do this? If you do break the habit today!

2008-03-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

If you are going to ask someone "How are you doing?"
Then you have to wait to hear the answer!
Otherwise just say "Hello!"

I knew a person that did this all the time! It drove me nuts!

I witnessed this happen to a woman the other day! The poor person who was asked "How are you doing?" was in mid sentence of her reply when the person who asked the question was halfway out the door! Really if you don't have the time to chat or you really just don't care then don't bother to ask! "Hello" is simple and polite! Asking someone how they are doing and not waiting for the answer is not!

Has this ever happened to you???

Don't let all of this snow get you down!

2008-03-01T05:08:00.000-08:00

Bundle up and build that snowman you keep meaning to make! Kids or no kids!
Make a snow angel! Have a snowball fight! Go for a walk and take pictures of something beautiful that is covered in snow! If you have it, Enjoy it!

Tell me something fun you have done recently in the snow!

Is your skin ruff and dry this winter??? Go to www.jennifersmells.com
Try the Lemon Pound Cake Sea Salt Scrub and scrub away all that dry, scratchy skin!
You'll be amazed by how silky and soft your skin can actually feel!! Go ahead! Try it! I double dog dare ya!
Prefer a moisturizer??? Try our Whoopie Pie Moisturizing Gel! Smells delightful and oh so soothing!

A simple idea when visiting a nursing home!

2008-02-29T13:48:00.000-08:00

When visiting someone in a nursing home or rehab center bring them a box of donuts, a dozen cupcakes, a fruit or cheese tray or even a game! (Connect Four is simple and fun! Goodwill is a great place to find slightly used games!) Your friend or relative will enjoy having something to share and will likely make some new friends, too!

Do you visit someone in a nursing home ??? Do you bring them anything special or fun???

Every Day Happiness

2008-02-27T11:08:00.001-08:00