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!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Great Summer Camp Conversation Starter!
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!
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!
Monday, June 15, 2009
My J-O-B Search!
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
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
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Easy, Healthy, Economical Choices When Grocery Shopping!
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~
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~
Monday, March 16, 2009
Saint Patrick's Day Fun!
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!
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!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Visit Local Venues on a Budget!
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!
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!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Fun things to do for the whole family!
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!
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!
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