It was so cold the first part of February that these sculptures were in pretty good shape more than a week after they were carved.
Shot on February 8, these photos show some of what remained of the Ice Sculpture event at Winterfest, held in Camden’s beautiful amphitheater, on January 30.
More proof that fun in Maine’s winter is endless.
The opening act for the Winter Olympics was held last weekend at the Camden Snow Bowl in Camden, Maine.
The 20th Annual US National Toboggan Championships glorified the spectacle of winter sports, but required a certain attitude.
It was a little bit Mardi Gras.
And a little bit fierce competition.
With a whoopie pie thrown in to boot.
The pageantry was awe inspiring.
Security was tight.
And the right equipment provided the edge to win.
Team spirit was everywhere, but here are the - – - -> winners.
(Will post more soon.)
Built for speed, these benches, made out of materials meant to blaze down mountains, are now frozen in time.
And provide a pretty cool spot to enjoy fast (or slow) food.
They’ve come to a full stop right in front of Verve, in the University of Maine’s town of Orono. And are the fantastic handiwork of one of the talented employees – - Matt Miller. His raw materials came from friends and the Ski Rack. Sure hope he got a nice raise!
Known for their burritos, Verve is run by Abe and Heather Furth, (UMaine alumni,) and has been reviewed by the delightful MaineMaven.
Don’t waste any time racing over to see what’s cooking.
Verve, 2 Mill Street, Orono, Maine, (207) 866-4004
So what if Florida has the Super Bowl! We have our own national sports spectacle – - The National Toboggan Championships, held at the Camden Snow Bowl, February 5-7, 2010!
A mix between Carnival or Mardi Gras, and the Winter Olympics, this event is an example of what happens in Maine when the temperatures get lower and the days get shorter. Winter alters our brain cells and fun breaks out.
If you haven’t been before, here’s your chance. The best part is that anyone can enter!
Here is a link to previous crazy years.
Every winter storm brings new life to some of Maine’s most appealing creatures.
This very charming species was spotted in Castine after the ‘Route One Blizzard’ of early 2010.
Here they are observed in their native habitat.
And so it goes. Closing down one year, and opening up another. Happy New Year!
And thanks so much for all your support!
Use the scrubber on the bar under the images to go to any image you want. And you can click here to see the larger version.
Lincolnville Beach lit up the night with their Christmas spirit. (It’s so great 2bnMaine this time of year.)
Wishing you all the joys of this magical season!
To see a larger version click here.
Smitten, in Wiscasset, is where Santa gets his ideas for big kids who are a bit hip, with great taste, who’ve been very, very good.
He’s very smitten with this fantastic, silvery, shimmery, delicately cut, metal, snowflake forest. (Would be surprised if it’s still there when you go, however. But maybe they have more.)
It’s where you too, can find scads of ideas to brighten up your shopping chores.
Like tablescapes ideas to make entertaining even more fun.
And lots of elegant surprises for those very lucky friends.
Just a few steps away from Smitten, the gifted owner, Erika Soule, also owns another amazing shop – - Rock, Paper, Scissors.
Where you’ll find oodles of wrappings, ribbons, stationery, papers, cards, games, toys, accessories . . . and even a mouse!
Previous post on Smitten and previous post on Rock, Paper, Scissors
Smitten, 68 Main Street, P. O. Box 140, Wiscasset, ME 04578, 207-882-9930
Rock, Paper, Scissors, 68 Main Street, Wiscasset, ME 04578, 207-882-9930
Take a peek at what’s in store for those lucky enough to be in Maine in the upcoming weeks. Just a partial list:
Christmas Tree Farms — links
Skiing – links
Rockland — Festival of Lights Celebration “Light up the Spirit of Giving” – - November. 27-29
Santa arrives by Coast Guard boat at Public Landing in Rockland, Historic Inns holds Holiday Open Houses, Lobster Trap Tree Lighting Ceremony, Downtown Festival of Lights Parade, family pancake breakfast with Santa, children’s activities, Santa’s Workshop, horse-drawn carriage rides, Santa’s mailbox, holiday music, special events, extended shopping hours. Call for complete schedule: Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce at 207-596-0376.
Brewer — 35th Annual Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show — Nov 27-29
The long weekend is a perfect time to get out and shop before everything is gone. Free gift giveaway every hour. United Maine Craftsmen (if you’re interested, check the site for more events) – Brewer Auditorium, 203 State Street, Brewer – Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm, fee $1.00 Email: info@unitedmainecraftsmen.com
Ellsworth –Woodlawn — The 1st Annual Run For The Leftovers - – Saturday, – November 28th, 1 p.m.
Join the fun run at Woodlawn’s X-country trails. Runners can choose between a 3k, 4k, or 5k distance. The event will conclude with a Pie Festival. Bring a leftover pie to share. Water and apple cider provided. Come socialize and share in some great camaraderie! And a slice of pie or two. For more information, please contact Peter Keeney at 288-3909 or pktrldrt@myfairpoint.net. You can also contact the sub5 track Club, Eden Athletics, or Crow Athletics. Donations will be accepted for Woodlawn’s trails maintenance. Woodlawn site.
Rockport — 30th Annual Festival of Lights Craft & Gift Market – - November 28
The Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 30th Annual Festival of Lights Craft & Gift Market will be held on Saturday, November 28th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Samoset Resort in Rockport. The admission charge is $2.00 per person, no charge for children under 12.
The Knox County Ballroom & the Vinal Haven Room will be filled with unique artisans, gifts and craftspeople selling Maine-made items that have been reviewed for the highest quality. We have added new craftspeople for you to discover along with a spot to catch lunch or a snack while you shop. Ride the All Aboard Trolley to Main Street Rockland from the Samoset Resort from 10 am to 4 pm and shop for your holiday gifts from among the area’s most unique offerings. For more information, contact Barbara Heard at the Chamber office, 596-0376, ext. 24.
Freeport — Sparkle Weekend - - December 4th, 2009 — December 6th, 2009 - – Free
Join us for all of the festivities of Sparkle Weekend beginning with the Parade of Lights on Friday evening! The whole family can enjoy the talking tree, visits with Santa, children’s activities, Harrington House Vignettes, Tuba Concert, Jingle Bell Run and so much more! For more detailed information please visit the website – - Contact: Alison Wiest – (207) 865-1212
Boothbay – - Winter Wonderlands Holiday Tea – - December 5, 2009, 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm – Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Individual pots of tea will accompany plates of delicate scones served with Devonshire cream and jam, along with four tea sandwiches (salmon, cucumber, tomato, and herbed cheese). Mollie Moore, who’s originally from England and owned a wonderful tea room in Boothbay Harbor, will again make the scones for the Tea. Holiday decorations, gifts, and seasonal music will add to the festive atmosphere in the Kitchen Garden Café and around the Saxon Fireplace. The price is $20 for members and $27 for non-members. Reservations are required for this delightful event – a Gardens tradition.
Ellsworth – - Tuesday, December 1st, 6-8 p.m. – - Holiday Open House – - A Victorian Christmas At Woodlawn
Join us for some holiday cheer and delicious hors d’oeuvres as you enjoy Woodlawn’s beautifully decorated rooms. As space is limited, reservations are recommended. Cost: $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Woodlawn site.
Ellsworth – - December 1st – 23rd, 10 a.m., 4 p.m. – Holiday Tours – - A Victorian Christmas At Woodlawn
Using the theme of A Victorian Christmas, area decorators have created wonderful displays for you to enjoy. Visitors will also have the opportunity to hear a special audio tour presentation on the history of Christmas at Woodlawn and in New England. This year’s decorator include Cullen Schneider from Fairwinds Florist in Blue Hill, Gail Royal from Westside Florist in Southwest Harbor, Liani Nutter from NewLand Florist in Ellsworth, John Blake from M.M. Julz Christmas Shop in Ellsworth and members of the Ellsworth Garden Club and the Surry Garden Club. Admission is $5 for adults and $1 for children ages 5-12, under 5 are free. Group and school tours are also available by appointment. Woodlawn site.
Ellsworth - - Wednesdays December 2, 9, 16, and 23 at 3 pm, Sunday December 13 – - Holiday High Teas / A Victorian Christmas At Woodlawn
Come enjoy a delicious traditional high tea and admire the splendid holiday decorations throughout the house. As space is limited, reservations are required by calling the museum. Cost: $18 for members, $20 for non-members. Woodlawn site.
Ellsworth – - A Victorian Christmas At Woodlawn - - Saturdays, December 5th, 12th, and 19th, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Family Saturdays – -
Join us in the Sleigh Barn for ornament making and holiday story time. In addition, families can have their picture taken on a decorated sleigh and take a hayride. “Family Saturdays” are free, although there is a charge for hayrides, photos, and to tour the house. Woodlawn site.
Bath — Festival of Trees “Holiday Gala” – December 1st, 2009 – 9:30 – 11:00 am and 4:00 – 5:30 pm — Website.
Cookie decorating, maritime holiday activities, and stories with Santa and Mrs. Claus. To Benefit the Bath Area Family YMCA – 9:30 – 11am “Tots and Trees” – 4 – 5:30 pm “All Ages Welcome” – - 243 Washington Street, Bath, ME 04530 – - Contact Cathy Crouch (207) 443-1316
Bath — Festival of Trees - - December 2nd, 2009, 5:30 pm- 8:00 pm – - The Festival of Trees is an annual event presented by the Bath Area Family YMCA featuring approximately 30 full size live Christmas trees decorated and sponsored by area businesses and non-profit organizations. Featuring music by the Oratorio Chorale, sparkling cider, champagne, hors d’oeuvres. Tickets $25.00. – - Maine Maritime Museum, 243 Washington Street, Bath, ME 04530 – - Phone: (207) 442-7291 – Toll-Free: 207 443-2067 – Fax: (207) 443-2067 — Website.
Boothbay –Festival of Trees Date - - December 4-5, 2009
The Garden Club’s annual celebration of the holidays – - come purchase one of a kind gifts, sweet selections and bid on one of the many beautifully decorated trees. This three day event is a fundraiser for the Garden Club. Website.
Boothbay – 25th Annual Harbor Lights Festival - - December 5, 2009
Mr. & Mrs. Claus arrive by boat. Horse drawn wagon rides, holiday craft fair, lap time with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Lighting of the Town Tree, holiday carols, live nativity followed by the spectacular Lighted Boat Parade. Visit website.
Boothbay – - Maine Coastal Gardens – - Winter Wonderlands Holiday Tea – - December 5, 2009, 03:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Enjoy a traditional cream tea at the Gardens. Individual pots of tea will accompany plates of delicate scones served with Devonshire cream and jam, along with four tea sandwiches (salmon, cucumber, tomato, and herbed cheese). Mollie Moore, who’s originally from England and owned a wonderful tea room in Boothbay Harbor, will again make the scones for the Tea. Holiday decorations, gifts, and seasonal music will add to the festive atmosphere in the Kitchen Garden Café and around the Saxon Fireplace.
Boothbay – - Art In The Square Holiday Reception - – December 5, 2009 – - 04:00 PM – 06:00 PM
The Artist and Public Reception welcomes everyone to join a celebration of our artistic youth , the creation of art and the Holiday Season.
Thomaston – - Hometown Holiday in Thomaston - – December 4 – 6
The town of Thomaston’s annual tree lighting ceremony on the mall takes place Friday night, December 4, at 6 p.m., weather permitting. Meanwhile, Santa will be at the Camden National Bank branch, sponsored by the Thomaston Merchants’ Association.
Warren – - Lie-Nielsen Toolworks Holiday Open House – - Dec. 4 – 5
Lie-Nielsen Toolworks will open its doors Dec. 4-5 for a holiday Open House. Come watch demonstrations by accomplished artisans Chris Becksvoort, Charlie Durfee, and Jacque Vesery. Try out our entire collection of tools and learn woodworking techniques like razor sharp honing and hand plane tuning. Shop tours will be given hourly. Families are welcome. Bring your holiday wish list! Hours: Dec. 4th from Noon – 6 pm, and Dec. 5th from 10 am – 5 pm. Lie-Nielsen Toolworks, Route 1, Warren.
For more information, contact Sarah Ewing at 207-273-1520 or 800-327-2520 (toll-free) - – email: sarah@lie-nielsen.com.
Camden — 2009 Christmas by the Sea - - December 4 – 6th
Experience Authentic Holiday Traditions in Award-Winning Maine Towns. No holiday celebration is more uniquely Maine than the ones that take place during the weeks after Thanksgiving in Camden and surrounding areas. Christmas By The Sea schedule here!
Here, a retired fire chief will make his way to the summit of Mt. Battie each afternoon as he has for the last 40 years to light a 27-foot star: a beacon of the season to residents, visitors and ships passing across Penobscot Bay. Santa Claus arrives aboard a tug boat and Coast Guard vessel. The trappings of Christmas delight young and old, as shoppers and outdoor enthusiasts explore the historic downtowns, waterways and surrounding mountains, experiencing shops, galleries and vistas found nowhere else.
Kennebunk — Christmas Prelude, December 4 -13th – - Check out the jam packed schecule of events.
Ogunquit - – 23rd Annual Christmas by the Sea 2009 – - December 11-13
Carolers, a concert, a bonfire, hayrides, Santa, shopping, a parade — it all sounds like fun. Visit the website to see the full schedule.
Stylish ghouls will find just the right Halloween gear in this hauntingly cool shop.
Rock, Paper, Scissors, in Wiscasset is the sister shop of Smitten, and shares the same stylish gene pool.
If the thought of encountering a store where you want everything you see makes you uneasy, then you’ll be horrified at what you find here.
Terrified at the sophistication.
Frightened by all the shelves packed with beautiful papers and stationary. (Very much like shops you see all over Europe, but rarely in the US.)
And spooked by all the cool kid gear.
It’s positively chilling how many great treats you’ll find here. But don’t be scared.
Rock, Paper, Scissors, 68 Main Street, Wiscasset, ME 04578, 207-882-9930
Taste buds, and eyeballs, had a wild romp last weekend at Maine Fare, in Camden. There were so many exciting products — cheeses, wines, beers, honey, soft drinks, fish, etc. that it’s easy to see why Maine’s enjoying it’s spot on the foodie map. It’s not a simple task bringing a new product to market, please support and encourage them.
These are just a few of the treats offered. (Still getting used to a new camera, so not all turned out as planned, sadly.)
Matt’s Coffee, (above) purveyed wood roasted coffee beans, served excellent coffee and demonstrated this very clever item — the Aerobie Aeropress.
Dolcelino’s (above) served bites of their delightful ice cream sandwiches, frozen in Maine. Really, you must try them!
Paolina’s Way, from Camden, showed us how to prepare fantastic, classic, Italian zucchini blossoms.
Borealis Breads (above) offered crunchy bread baked last night.
Suzuki’s (above) in Rockland revealed the secrets of great sushi rolls.
The Garden Institute encouraged home gardens.
And everyone had a great time!
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