Adve

rtis

ing

Supp

lem

ent t

o th

e Su

n Jo

urna

l, Thu

rsda

y, N

ovem

ber 2

7, 2

014

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 20142 Holiday

Eeny,meeny,minyMobius.ChooseMobius for your sweetie.

11 Mechanic Street, Freeport, Maine Come visit us right in the of downtown Freeport207-865-4126 • 800-753-4465 browngoldsmiths.com

2 Mechanic Street, Freeport | 207-865-3097earringsandcompany.com

Oprah has personally chosen Chamilia as one of her favorite things.

LIMITED EDITION12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

GIFT SET

l i v e w i t h a l l y o u r h e a r t

Visit our shop full of memoriesAnd find one of-a- kind gifts.

Open 6 Days A Week 10-5Closed Tuesday

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

519 Sabattus Rd, Rtes 126/92 miles from Exit 86 of the Maine Turnpike.

375-8500

SabattusAntique Mall

Maine-made wine and brew spread cheer in holiday seasonBy Dan MaroisFeature Writer

If you want to consider giving wine or beer as a holiday gift, Zakk Maher believes the choice starts with a good story.

“Even before someone tastes something for the first time, they respond to the stor y (behind the beverage),” said Maher, who with his wife, Emmy Andersson, operate Square Root Natural Foods on Route 26 in Poland, Maine. “People like to know where the item is produced, where the ingredients are grown or know something about how it is made.”

That’s exactly why Maher holds monthly wine tastings at his store.

“People can taste the wines and get used to the names,” said Ma her, “but we can

[also] tell them what goes on behind the scenes to make the finished product.”

W hen it comes to Maine-made w i nes a nd brew s, Maher said that the market has exploded. He finds that summer visitors like to seek out a Ma i ne w i ne when visiting the state. His bottle racks are often filled with wines that include Maine staples: blueberries, honey, and maple syrup.

“Mead is popu la r,” sa id Ma her, a bra nd made in Port land. “We’ve stocked Blacksmiths (a w iner y in South Casco).”

And if you are looking for Ma ine made cra f t beers, there’s never a shortage of choices.

“We sell lots of Baxter and A l l a g a s h ,” s a i d M a h e r, citing that Baxter is made

in Lewiston and Allagash in Portland. “There is a strong market for craft beers.”

A search on t he Internet proves Maher’s point.

The Maine Winer y Gui ld website (mainewineryguild.com) lists 24 wineries across

t he state. T he site even highlights a Wine Trail map that leads to each winery location and gives a list of the types of wines produced there. Many wineries have their own tasting rooms and there are links to each of the winer y websites. The site

suggests calling the wineries in advance to confirm the hours of operation for tasting rooms.

“Maine wines are usually grape and fruit wines,” said Ma her, whi le t he w iner y guild website notes other

selections that include hard ciders and meads, which involve fermenting honey and water mixed with various fruits, spices, grains or hops.

Ma i ne c r a f t beer s have t h e i r o w n w e b s i t e a t mainebrewersguild.org that includes a list of 46 members. Ma her sa id t hat brewers range from large operations to single-person shops in the craft beer business.

“Many sell singles (individual bott les) in 22-ounce size b o t t l e s a n d s m a l l e r ,” sa id Ma her, which g ives consumers a chance to try a taste rather than a large quantit y. “There are a lso

Dan Marois photoZakk Maher and wife, Emmy Andersson, with daughter, Dagny.

Dan Marois photoSome of the wine available at the Poland-based store. Note the information sheets that describe wine and help customers select a new wine to try.

Winepage 10 ‰

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 2014 Holiday 3

• Giant Slide• Ton of Games• 3 Story Crazy Maze• Laser Tag! • Fresh Food

Full Menu

Play Bracelet!with a

$25 Gift Card PurchaseWith this coupon. One per person. Not valid with any other specials

Expires 12/24/14

FREEFREE

Family Time Dine & Playis the place to be for Safe, Affordable Family Fun!

550 Center St (Auburn Mall) • Auburn, ME784-2400 • www.familytimedineandplay.com

GREENWOOD ORCHARDSFarm Stand & Cider Mill - Rt. 4, Turner, ME • 225-3764

Old Fashion Store Cheese, Farm Butter, Eggs, Pickles, Jams, Jellies, Honey,Maple Syrup, Dried Beans, Large Selection of Apple Gift Baskets

OPEN 7 DAYS

8-5

★Apple Gif t Packs★Featuring Cortlands, Macs & Spencers

Homemade: Pies • Fresh Bread & PastriesOur Own Fresh Sweet Apple Cider no preservatives

Maine-Balsam Christmas Wreaths, Trees, Garland & More

ApplesPackagedfor Shipping

ChristmasGift Certificates

ChristmasGift Certificates

Call 633-7200or write PO Box 21, E. Boothbay, ME 04544

Cabbage IslandClambakes

❄

❅

❅

LAY-AWAY

“Quality Service Since 1964”1818 Lisbon Rd., Lewiston

784-7591 ❆

❇

❇

Skis • BootsSnow Board PackagesAccessories • Tune-Ups

Rossignol XCountry Packages

Barclay’s Skindivers Paradise

Bring a Lifetimeof Underwater

Adventure to Your Entire Family this Holiday Season

“Family Snorkel & Scuba Packages”

685 Washington St, Auburn207-784-7300

BUY A $25GIFT CERTIFICATE & RECEIVE

AN EXTRA CERTIFICATEFOR $5 FREE!

“Engine Company”Home of th

e

376-495947 Broad St., Auburn

PIZZERIA"Home of the Fergy"

Open 7 Days A Week: Sun-Wed 9am-10pm,Thu 9am-11pm, Fri-Sat 9am-Midnight

782-070163 Sabattus St., Lewiston

www.luiggispizzeria.com

The Perfect Gift

A Gift Certificate from

1339 Sabattus St., Lewiston1/2 Mile North of Country Lane Estates

754-7873

Lifetime GuaranteeOver 20+ Years of Professional InstallationSureStart

Get into a climate controlled vehicle!

Starting at$149

installed

Remote Car Starters

Capture holiday memories with these simple, professional tipsBy Jackie RybeckFeature Writer

The holidays are a l l about family and tradition. And there aren’t many traditions more widespread than taking family photos during the holidays.

There are no better ways to remember the holidays than having great photos to look at and share with relatives and friends, but most of us don’t have access to expensive cameras or photographic studios.

With that in mind, we turned to Poland-based photographer Gini Haines whose profession is specializing in capturing great memories for generations to come.

Let’s start at the beginning: the camera.

“Owning a camera is the easy part,” Haines said. “Using it well takes information and practice. Modern digital cameras are amazing tools for capturing beautiful images. In order to use your camera at its full capacity you need to be familiar with its functions. The hard part is that it means reading and re-reading the manual.

Just remember a cheaper camera with the correct settings can take a better picture than an expensive camera on the wrong settings. Experiment with each setting to see exactly what it does.”

Haines listed the most important camera

settings to learn.

Exposure refers to the light that is let into the camera. An overexposed image will be bright and washed out; an underexposed image will be dark and murky.

Metering mode is what determines how the camera measures the light it sees in the scene you are aiming your camera at and how it uses that light to determine the best exposure.

Auto-focus mode involves speed: single or continuous. Single is best for landscapes and Continuous is best for capturing action.

White Balance keeps colors looking the same in different types of lighting.

Aperture, also called f/stop, controls the amount of light that reaches the image sensor. It controls the depth of field.

Shutter speed is another way of controlling the amount of light that reaches the image sensor. A fast shutter speed stops action and a long shutter speed allows you to create motion blur if that is the effect you want.

“Once you have learned the functions,” said the professional, “practice, practice, practice.”

Now comes the fun part!

Planning and being prepared is the most important step.

“It will help with cooperation and relaxation,” explained Haines. “If you are having group photos, know where you will be taking them. Know what your background will be, and who will sit where. Don’t be afraid to get up close and have everyone sit close together.”

Although a group photo is nice, Haines said to try the un-staged approach.

Jackie Rybeck photos A dog pile can always get a natural smile out of children.

Have fun taking photos of the kids during the holidays; let the kids get wrapped up in tinsel and lights.

A candid of Sawyer Nelson with the family dog.

Memoriespage 11 ‰

96 Court Street • Auburn • 782-0638 Mon-Sat 10 am to

5pm • Sun 12 am to 5 pm

ANTIQUE & CURIO SHOP

ALWAYS BUYING ANTIQUESWarehouse Sale Every

Monday 10-1. Corner ofPleasant & Turner Streets

www.orphananniesme.com • orantiques@myfairpoint.net

Great Gift Ideas for Christmas priced from .10¢ & Up

Somethingforeveryone!

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 20144 Holiday

By T. S. ChamberlandFeature Writer

The stores, malls, and streets become busier as the holiday season gets closer. People are ready to start shopping for those perfect gifts, planning holiday gatherings and meals. If you have friends and family nearby, you’re likely to have lots to do no matter the holiday you celebrate. Maybe in addition to all the hoopla, you’re looking for some way to give back, some way to give this season beyond traditional gifts and gatherings.

There are people in our communities who may not have the option of sharing merriment and cheer with those they love, and there are local organizations that are short staffed and in desperate need of extra hands at this time of year. While it would be great to donate gifts, both material and monetary, to organizations who distribute to those in need, there is a bigger gift that’s well worth giving: your time.

Volunteering provides much-needed assistance to non-profit organizations such as local churches, soup kitchens, shelters, and senior services, and it provides something that beautifully wrapped presents alone cannot: the gift of human contact and interaction.

The reasons for volunteering are as varied as the causes that benefit from the donation of time. For some volunteers, like Tom Gesner, of Buckfield, it was as simple as saying yes when a friend asked him to volunteer with her.

“I’ve served Thanksgiving dinner at Hope Haven Gospel Mission a few times,” said Gesner.

Gesner sa id t hat he “t horoug h ly enjoyed” his t ime volunteering, and added, “I had some nice conversations with some of the people I served.”

Feeling connected to another person, even if just for an hour,

can often be the highlight of somebody’s day. When we give of our time, we show others that they have value. Time is, after all, our most precious commodity.

Kelly Green-Chartier, of Turner, lost her mother to brain cancer 16 years ago. That experience is what Green-Chartier credits for her start in volunteering five years ago. She didn’t think she was doing much at first, until she began to run into people she’d spent time with at The Dempsey Center in Lewiston.

“Giving back is so important,” said Green-Chartier, who gives foot scrubs and massages to cancer patients. “I have run into former patients; they hug and thank me, and tell me just how much I did for them when, honestly, all I did was be there to listen to their story.”

One of the benefits of volunteering isn’t always immediately considered, since it takes having given of yourself to fully appreciate the effect, but any volunteer is likely to admit how wonderful they feel freely doing something for others.

“Volunteering has changed me for the better. Giving of yourself fills your soul with love, and hope,” admitted Green-Chartier.

Marcy Kennison, wife and mother of two from Poland, has also found volunteering to have multiple benefits.

“Volunteering gives you the chance to be the light in someone's day. You'll just never know the connections, friendships, and unknown positives that someone can take away from just giving your time to a cause.”

Kenison said giving of her time not only helps her congregation ra ise t he f unds it needs, but prov ides people w it h opportunities to build friendships and fosters good will.

“I have been a member of the United Methodist Church of Auburn for 17 years, and giving my time to this loving church makes me feel so happy,” Kenison said. “The benefits to me involve being part of this wonderful community of people who are all there for one another, and the profits help keep our church going, so we can give our time and talents to God and our community.”

There really is no time-of-year requirement to donate your

time to the service of your community. Gesner suggested contacting the charity or organization you are interested in to find out their needs.

“Also, consider volunteering during a non holiday when there may be less of an abundance of volunteers.”

No matter when you choose to volunteer, and regardless of where that time is spent, there is a definite need that only the gifts of time and compassion can fill.

“With so many people experiencing hard times, we are seeing people from children to elders giving their time to let others know that they are not alone, and that people with good hearts are there for them,” Kenison said.

Green-Chartier agreed, “Sadly, so many of us are affected by illness and loss, and it feels good to give back. Also, with the economic struggles we have all experienced, this is something you can do that costs nothing, but is so fulfilling for all of those involved.”

Looking to give the gift of your time to a worthy charitable organization? Here’s a short list of area charities that benefit from volunteers, as well as a couple of web sites that list many others.

Area churches, religious organizations, police departments, and hospitals

• Advocates for Children, Lewiston -- 207-783-3990

• Auburn Public Library -- 207-333-6640

• Big Brothers and Sisters, Lewiston -- 207- 795-4065

• Good Shepherd Food Bank, Auburn -- 207-782-3554

• Hope Haven Gospel Mission, Lewiston -- 207-783-6086

• Lewiston Public Library -- 207-513-3119

• Safe Voices -- 207-795-6744

• Seniors Plus -- 207-513-3710

Check out these listings for more volunteer opportunities:

http://www.lewistonauburn.com/volunteer.html

http://www.volunteermaine.org/

1052 Minot Avenue ~ Auburn, ME 04210(207) 783-6885 www.macsgrill.com

$10 Bonus Gift Card

For Every$50Gift Card Purchase

For your Gift Giving

ALL ABOUT U

SALON

41 Broad Street • Auburn207-784-5407

www.allaboutusalonla.com

Style Smarter Not Harder

Up to 45% OFFAll ProTools & Products by

Give the Gift of Beauty

See Us on Small Business Saturday for Huge Savings!

Eat. Play. Save!

still only$29.95

Visit Our Maine Mall Kiosk to Purchase!Call 207.775.4711 or order Online at

dineportland.com

Learn from our Best Friend,

Everybody likes SAVINGS! Portland Dine Around is the Perfect Gift for yourself or your best friend.

Portland Dine Around Club has given Mainers huge savings for 27 years. Members receive special deals &

coupons for local attractions, over 300 Southern Maine restaurants,

sporting events and more!

c 7 3 h x = m ] 4

PORTLANDDINEAROUNDCLUB™

Get Out & Enjoy it!

Life is an Adventure...

Volunteerism: The gift of your time

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 2014 Holiday 5

1009 Center St., Auburn • 333-3390

• Several Options Available

• Lifetime Battery Replacement (with this ad)

• Call or Stop By for Appointment

Don’t Be Left Out In The Cold!REMOTE CAR STARTERS

Auto City Gift Cards20% Bonus with this Ad

4 Compatible Lines of

Charm Beads& Bracelets

FeaturingMaine

Artists & Designers

13 Middle Street(across from CVS)Freeport, Maine

207.865.1818rdallen.com Retail & Wholesale • Beverages & Redemption • State Agency Liquor Stores

Remember...

For All Your Beverage Needs Since 1992

"From our ROOPERS family to yours we sincerely hope that every moment of your Thanksgiving holiday holds happiness and

peace for you and your families”

For your Thanksgiving celebration be sure to visit one of our 5 convenient locations for great selections and amazing savings on

all of your favorite beverages!" Don't forget ALL of our Redeptions will be closed on Thanksgiving Day

545 Minot Ave.Auburn

783-2047

794 Sabattus St.Lewiston783-6353

1420 Lisbon St. Lewiston333-3095

694 Main St.Lewiston782-1482

303-301 Main StAuburn

783-9098

Lisbon St.Store now has liquor!

• 1,000 Feet of Range • 2 Remotes• Optional Lock/Unlock • Trunk Release

• GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

REMOTE STARTERS

216 Center Street,Auburn777-3339

Great Gift Idea!

Happy Holidaysfrom

Gamache & Lessard Co., Inc.Custom Window Decorators

Gift Certi�cates Available995 Center Street, Auburn, ME 782-0052

www.windowdecorators.com

Bring Roaks Home for the Holidays!

Great Gifts...Old FashionedFriendly Service!

Delivering Holiday Memories Since 1874“Your Main Street Florist”

Flower Shop & Greenhouse

NUTS, FUDGE, GARLAND, KISSING BALLS, HOLLY, MISTLETOE, BOXWOOD TREES

Our Own

ChristmasCactus,

Poinsettias & Cyclamen

Christmas Bouquets

From $19.98

"One Call Does It All"784-4061

HandmadeChristmas Wreaths

From $12.98

793 Main St., Lewiston Just Beyond MardensReg. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-5; Sat. 8 - 12

GREENHOUSE

Holiday coloring fun!How to help new parents make the holidays specialBy MetroCreative

Br i n g i n g a b a b y h o m e c h a n g e s a person's life. Babies bring great joy but

also some confusion into a household, especially as the new parents adapt in their first few weeks or months as mom and dad. Babies tend to draw attention away from their folks, whose needs may be lost in the shuffle.

As baby's first holiday season approaches, the youngster's parents and extended family often attempt to make the ex per ience as memorable as possible. But family and friends of new parents also can take steps to lighten new parents' holiday burdens by of fer i ng some t houg ht f u l holiday gifts that can provide support and love for newly minted moms and dads.

• Time: New parents typically

are short on time. There's little time to shop, eat and sleep. Friends and family of new parents can give the gift of time this holiday season. Offer your services as a babysitter so new parents can enjoy some alone time, or simply lend a hand with household chores so the new mom and dad can relax instead of work while their bundle of joy is napping.

• Memories: The first hours and days of having a new child are filled with opportunities to capture every moment. Gone are the days when film must be developed and tangible photos must be stored in photo albums. Digital technology means some photos never make it to hard copies. But even if photos rarely find their way into frames, preserving early memories is essential.

C omputer s c a n f a i l a nd camera cards can break. In such i n st a nces, preciou s

images may be lost forever unless parents have backup. An Eye-Fi wireless memory card will automatically upload images from a camera to a computer or external memory source, ensuring no precious snapshots are lost.

• F o o d : N e w p a r e n t s' nourishment may come from any package that's easily torn open with their teeth while tending to a crying infant. Me a l s , sn a c k s a nd fo o d baskets make great gifts that keep parents fed and happy. Consider memberships to fruit of the month clubs or call the new parents' favorite restaurant and send them a meal.

• Pampering : Sometimes new parents just need some pampering, whet her it's a shopping excursion, a visit to a hair dresser, an appointment w i t h a m a s s e u s e , o r something as simple as a long,

uninterrupted hot shower. A gift card to a spa or salon may make a good gift for a luxury-starved parent.

Just remember to factor child care into the equation so that Mom or Dad will not have any excuse to cancel his or her appointment. New parents face many challenges, and helping them through their f i rst hol iday sea son a s a mother and father can make this precious period that much more memorable.

MS photoNew parents can use a helping hand during their first holiday season as mom and dad.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 20146 Holiday

GIFT CARDSKI BUCKSCan Be Used For Anything On The Mountain

(Except Riverview Ski & Bike Shop)

Visit us on the Web at www.lostvalleyski.com

Projected

Opening

Day

Dec. 19

Last Chance To Save on"Season Pass" PurchaseOFFER ENDS SOON!!!

Purchase in the Office by Nov. 26th or Online by Nov. 30th

Where Skiers Learn to Ski& Riders Learn To RideONLY MINUTES AWAY

784-1561

for the

Moonlight MadnessThanksgiving at Midnight

Shop by the Light of the Moon.12:01 a.m. Freeport shops, outlets,

boutiques and even a few restaurants open for business! Some open earlier and

of course L.L.Bean is open 24/7.

Fun Run with santa Chase after Santa on his red Harley. Olympia Sports, 140 Main St. 11:45pm

register at runinarace.com

FMI: freeportusa.com

Presented by:

Hadlock Field271 Park Avenue

PORTLAND

“Give a Gift of Summer this Winter!” Individual Game Tickets for the 2015 Season & tickets for the

Sullivan Tire All Star Classic Game ARE NOW ON SALE ....

To order tickets simply call the Sea Dogs Ticket Office at

207-879-9500 or .... Order and PRINT your own tickets

@ www.seadogs.comSea Dogs Tickets and Souvenirs

Make Great Holiday Gifts!

Order Tickets and Souvenirs 24/7 atwww.seadogs.com

Ticket Of�ce Hours:Mon.-Fri.: 9 am to 5 pmSaturday 10 am to 2 pmSouvenir Shop Hours:Mon.-Fri. 9 am to 5 pm

Saturday 10 am to 2 pm

Grandchildren bake holiday goodies at the Clarke houseBy Deborah CarrollFeature Writer

Debbie Clarke, of Wales, was 5 years old when she started cooking. “I always watched my mother,” she said, helping when she was old enough. “There was always something home baked when we came home from school.”

Her grandmother, who raised n i ne ch i ld ren i nclud i ng C l a r k e ’s m o t h e r , w a s "famous" for making bread and pies.

With such remarkable role models, it ’s no su r pr ise that Clarke fell in love with cooking and baking at a very early age.

N o w “ M e m e ” t o g r a ndd a u g ht e r s A u br e y and Sydney Wood, ages 8 and 5, of Sabattus, 7-year-old Tessa Blais of Lewiston, a nd 13-ye a r- old Hay le y Champaigne who recently moved to Wisconsin, Clarke

has become a patient and ent hu sia st ic role model herself.

“Hayley started cooking with me when she was 4 years old ... simple things,” said Clarke. Champaigne's presence in Meme’s kitchen is greatly m i s s e d by her you nger cousins.

The menu in Meme’s kitchen t h is hol iday season w i l l feature meat pies and baked ham, baked beans and finger rolls -- made with the leftover ba ked him -- as wel l as lasagna or stuffed shells and meatballs.

“Aubrey’s made meatballs with me,” said Clark, who fondly recalls her mother and aunts getting together every holiday season to make ravioli.

W hen it comes to making tempting sweets, however, t h a t i s w h e r e C l a r k e’s granddaughters really shine.

“I’m all about making it from scratch,” said Clarke, but with the girls just beginning to develop their culinar y skills, “I try to do easy things with them.” Here she shares a few of their favorite “simple” recipes.

O n e o f C l a r k e ’s l e a s t complicated recipes for little fingers combines salty and sweet w ith simple. Using e qua l nu mber s of m i n i squa re pret zels, Hershey

Hugs and M&Ms, Aubrey a nd Sydney topped each pretzel with a Hug on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Clarke baked these in a 200-degree oven for a few minutes, until the Hugs were soft but not melted. Fresh out of the oven, the girls set to work topping each Hug with a

One of Clarke's least complicated recipes for little fingers combines salty and sweet with simple. Top mini square pretzels, with Hershey Hugs and M&Ms.

With their kitchen skills developing, the girls have become "good taste testers, too."

Deborah Carroll photosGrandmother and granddaughters enjoy cooking together.

Goodiespage 7 ‰

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 2014 Holiday 7

As weenjoy theHoliday

Celebrations..

Remember...be safe!

For all the things you value.Auburn, Maine

www.patrons.com

Holiday Gift Ideas! Sale ends Dec 24

Ready Made Frames

Woodburning Kit

Webinz Spirograph Deluxe set

3/$10 $1999

$2999

Loopdedoo Bracelet Maker

All Melissa & Doug Toys

Rock Tumbler

Kid's 120 Piece Art Set

$599

20%off

$1999

value$54.93

$3999 25%off

Custom FramingVisit us for:

The largest selectionThe lowest pricesThe best framers

Custom Moldings 50% off

Auburn Plaza, Auburn 783-8265

Open Mon.-Sat. 9 to 8; Sunday 10 to 5CraftManiaMaine.com

Locally Owned

1/2 c. butter, softened

3/4 c. peanut butter

3/4 c. packed brown sugar

1/2 c. granulated sugar, divided

1 large egg

1 tsp. vanilla

1 Tbsp. milk

1/4 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1-3/4 c. flour

About 48 mini marshmallows

About 48 Reese's Minis

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Place 1/4 c. granulated sugar in a bowl and set aside.

2. Cream butter, peanut butter, and brown sugar, add 1/4 c. granulated sugar in the bowl and mix. Add egg, vanilla, milk, salt and baking soda and mix until combined. Slowly add flour and mix.

3. Scoop 1 Tbsp.-sized balls of dough and roll them in the bowl of sugar. Place cookies on sheet and bake for 7-8 minutes until bottoms begin to brown. Remove from oven and immediately press a hole in the center of each cookie with the back of a wooden spoon. Insert a mini marshmallow in the hole and place back in oven for 30 seconds.

Remove from oven and stick a Reese's Mini on top of the marshmallow, pressing gently to fit it into the hole without cracking the cookie. Cool and remove from cookie sheets.

Clarke and her granddaughters enjoy making (and eating!) peanut butter cookies topped with peanut butter cups and mini marshmallows.

single colorful M&M.

“My mother taught me how to make chocolates,” said Clarke, adding, “You can dip just about anything in chocolate.” A nd so, w it h melted chocolate on hand, Aubrey and Sydney dipped marshmallows on sticks into the chocolate and coated them with edible, decorative holiday sprinkles.

The girls also enjoy making t hings l ike sugar cook ies and peanut butter cookies topped with peanut butter cups and mini marshmallows (see recipe for peanut butter s’more blossoms).

As the girls demonstrated t heir m i x ing a nd rol l ing techniques, Meme provided instruction, encouragement and gentle correction: “Don’t m i x it too much, honey, because t he cook ies w i l l spread,” she said to Aubrey.

W hen it comes to cooking with children, the hardest thing is staying organized, said Clarke. Keeping your work areas organized and clean “takes a lot of prep work.”

Then, as little fingers dipped into bowls of frosting and plucked chunks of cookie dough from bowls, she added, “I also teach them good hand washing ... but we tr y to make it fun so they don’t lose interest.”

W it h ch i ld ren, a st u rdy stepstool is an indispensable k itc hen to ol , a nd l i t t le Sydney stood on her stool a s s he adde d s pr i n k le s to freshly formed balls of unbaked red sugar cookie dough. “Accidents happen,” explained Clarke, “and that’s okay.”

Some k itchen accident s, however, a re better t ha n ot hers. A pi le of wa sted sprinkles is one thing, but when it comes to safety Clarke recommended that children b e c l o s e l y s u p e r v i s e d

Peanut Butter S’more BlossomsGoodiesfrom page 6

whenever t hey ’re i n t he kitchen. In Meme’s kitchen, chi ldren don’t use sha rp tools and are never left alone by a hot stove: “I wouldn’t let them dip at the stove by themselves, and I keep the

handles [to hot pots] turned in.”

Wit h t heir k itchen sk i l ls developing, the girls have become “good taste testers, too,” said Clarke, “and they’ll

tell you what they do and don’t like.”

Although Aubrey’s favorite thing to do at Christmas is watch Christmas mov ies, when asked to name her

favorite Christ mas t reat, Aubrey smi led a nd sa id:

Goodiespage 11 ‰

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 20148 Holiday

Jordan Bridge Rd, Sabattus375-4486 Open Daily

JILLSON'S FARM

Holiday Shopping

Fresh Cut Christmas Trees, Wreaths, Maple Syrup,

Maple Candies, Jellies, Pickles,

Relish, andLots More!

Handcrafted Fashion JewelryTrendy, Fun & Fashionableto Fit Your Personality

Womens Apparel / Accessories

BLACK FRIDAY AND SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY - NOV. 28 & 29

20% OFF ALL CLOTHING!76 Sabattus St Lewiston (Across from Sarah Jeanne’s Salon) • 783-3500

Offering a Large Variety of

Country Primitive Décor & Gifts

Willow Tree Angels • CandlesBattery Candles • Timer CandlesQuilts • Curtains • Signs • Stars

Pictures • Lighted HousesLamps • Country Furniture

Berry Rings & GarlandsWillow Trees • Braided Rugs

Stonewall KitchensHand Made Items • AntiquesCollectibles • Christmas Décor

Cards • Gift Certi�catesPlus Much More!

Holiday Hours: Open 7 Days 10-5850 Main St., Lewiston • 754-8784

Across from Harley Davidson

Willow Tree Primitives

Looking For Handmade Gifts?

909 Minot Ave., Auburn, ME • 207-784-4486

HOURS: Mon-Fri 10 to 5, Sat 10 to 4, Tues ‘til 8Visit us on the web at www.quilt-essentials.com

We will be selling many of ourshop samples of knitted and quilted

items, along with handmade baskets fromDecember 1st-26th.

Browse our fabulous selection of fabrics and yarns to make your own holiday gifts. Let us help you with gift ideas for

the knitter or quilter on your shopping list.email: info@quilt-essentials.com

Quilting,Knitting &BasketrySuppliesandClasses

The hottest apps and accessories to make the holidays specialIf you’re looking to give a smart holiday gift keep in mind that 58 percent of American adults have a smartphone and 42 percent own a tablet, according to the Pew Internet & American Life Project. Although we may get bogged down by the frenzy that often accompanies the so-called “Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” one way to simplify the season for the gift-giver and receiver alike is to give apps and accessories for mobile devices.

“As over half of adults have a smartphone, giving the gift of helpful accessories for the gamer, music lover or fitness fanatic in your life is an easy way to make holiday wishes come true,” said Matt Kasper, director of sa les in New England. “Whether a friend or family is looking for the latest and greatest, we have all the season must-haves including the Samsung Galaxy S5, iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, and iPad Air. Their efficiency relies on the power of the 4G LTE network.”

Users may even consider their smartphones the tech equivalent of the Swiss Army knife, and the proof is in the

numbers. According to a recent U.S. Cellular Better Moments Survey, 69 percent of users use their smartphones to take photos, and 48 percent watched v ideos. Gaming occupies more than 50 percent of users. Audiophiles rejoice, 45 percent of users listen to their favorite tunes. The number of activities and uses increases when you add tablets, like the 4G LTE iPad Air, into the mix.

The best gifts complement what people already love to do. Based on current trends in the industry, the experts at U.S. Cellular suggest the following apps and accessories to help your loved ones get the most out of their devices this holiday.

ENTERTAINMENT• Moga Pro Power: Gamers a t t a c h t h e i r A n d r o i d smartphone, like the Samsung Galaxy S5, to this handheld game console and use its precision controls to play games. The display is on the

sma r tphone. The Mogas buttons, triggers and joysticks are highly responsive and maneuvers much better than a smartphone’s touchscreen controls. iPhone users won’t be left out of the game anymore with the Moga Ace. And both units charge your smart phone as you play.

• Moto TC Rally App & Car: Working with the Griffin TC MOTO Rally Car, the app lets you race alone or compete against an opponent. Drive by using your mobile device’s touchscreen steering wheel, or by titling the device itself. The Rally Car is a USB-rechargeable device with impact/obstacle sensors that let players interact with their environment with unparalleled realism.

MUSIC• B e a t s S o l o H D 2 Headphones: Lightweight and compact, these colorful headphones are durable and comfortable. Updated and

improved acoustics let you hear all your tunes with clarity and resonant bass. Go solo with confidence and bring your music with you anywhere.

• JBL Flip 2: This wireless, rechargeable battery powered speaker brings rich sound to any on-the-go lifestyle. Small enough to fit in your hand, the JBL Flip 2 features SoundClear echo and noise cancellation technology, so you can use it as a hands-free speakerphone.

HEALTH & FITNESS• Jawbone UP24 Activity Tracker: This innovative w r i s t b a n d t r a c k s y ou r movement and sleep. The companion app lets you add data like meals and mood, and delivers nudges to you throughout your day to help

you monitor your progress. Track your weight, access extensive food libraries and meet your fitness and health goals efficiently and sensibly.

• Withings Wireless Scale: Get accurate and reliable weight and BMI in seconds. Sync the data with the app on your smartphone, so you can set weekly goals, and receive relevant tips and reminders to stay focused.

LIFESTYLE & HOME• iGrill: Android and iOS users can modernize the primal experience of grilling with the iGrill family of apps. Bluetooth Smart Technology allows users to monitor their grillables with the compact iGrill Mini, original iGrill, or the 4-probe capacity iGrill. Easy to read displays and customizable alarms mean your steak is cooked perfectly every time.

• Olloclip 4-in-1 Lens System ($0.00): This much-acclaimed lens system attaches to your iPhone or iPad to provide superior optics and clearer images. The system includes two macro lenses (5x and 10x), a fisheye, and a wide-angle lens. The four-in-one design means changing between lenses is quick and easy.

“As busy as the holidays can be, they are really an opportunity to give and receive gifts that ca n empower people to simplify their To Do Lists, improve their lives, and have a little fun while they are at it.” added Kasper.

4G LTE ser v ice prov ided through King Street Wireless, a partner of U.S. Cellular. LTE is a trademark of ETSI.

Submitted photosJBL Flip 2: This wireless, rechargeable battery powered speaker brings rich sound to any on-the-go lifestyle. Small enough to fit in your hand, the JBL Flip 2 features SoundClear echo and noise cancellation technology, so you can use it as a hands-free speakerphone.

Withings Wireless Scale: Get accurate and reliable weight and BMI in seconds. Sync the data with the app on your smartphone, so you can set weekly goals, and receive relevant tips and reminders to stay focused.

iGrill: Android and iOS users can modernize the primal experience of grilling with the iGrill family of apps. Easy to read displays and customizable alarms mean your steak is cooked perfectly every time.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 2014 Holiday 9

Staub 4 quartRound Cocotte

5 Depot St., Freeport • 865-0779

Beautiful heat retaining cast iron goes from oven to table top.

Available in Red only

Black Friday Special $99.99

Casco Bay Cutlery & Kitchenware

785 Main St, Lew

Scented Soy Wax Bars in lots of Holidays Scents $4!Ornaments & Christmas signs galore!

Sweater Mittens, Infinity Scarves,Christmas Boughs, Baby Bibs and So Much More!

Nov. 28th Plaid Friday(wear plaid to the store & get a discount off entire purchase)

Nov 29th Small Business Sat.Support several local businesses by shopping at EllieAnna

Wind & Fire Bracelets!Buy 4 get 1 FREE

Industrial & Home Sewing Machine

Sales, Service and Parts

Open Monday-Thursday 10 to 5; Friday & Saturday 10 to 4Phone & Fax 225-5920

e-mail - ron@cotebrothers.com web - www.cotebrothers.com

Rt. 4, 293, Auburn Rd. Turner(Next to Paris Farmer’s Hardware)

SB170Only $99

NEW

XV8500D

We’re also here to offer Advice and Instruction

Financing

Available!

“The Perfect Gift For Mom!”

Deck the halls with boughs of holly,Fa la la la la, la la la la.Tis the season to be jolly,Fa la la la la, la la la la.RefrainDon we now our gay apparel,Fa la la, la la la, la la la.Troll the ancient Yule tide carol,Fa la la la la, la la la la.See the blazing Yule before us,Fa la la la la, la la la la.Strike the harp and join the chorus.Fa la la la la, la la la la.(Refrain)Follow me in merry measure,Fa la la la la, la la la la.While I tell of Yule tide treasure,Fa la la la la, la la la la.(Refrain)Fast away the old year passes,Fa la la la la, la la la la.Hail the new, ye lads and lasses,Fa la la la la, la la la la.(Refrain)Sing we joyous, all together,Fa la la la la, la la la la.Heedless of the wind and weather,Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Deck the Halls5 affordable entertaining ideas guaranteed to impress at holiday partiesBy BrandPoint

The holidays are coming up quickly, and that means there's plenty of reason to celebrate. Whether you're throwing a party for the first time or you're continuing a long-running annual tradition, hosting a festive celebration with friends and family is a lot of work and always worth it. This year, take your party to the next level to truly impress your guests -- without breaking the bank.

C o n s i d e r t h e s e f i v e entertaining secrets that expert party planners use to throw unforgettable holiday parties for less:

ThemesSet the stage and get everyone in a festive mood with a great theme. A bit of brainstorming is all you need to figure out t he best t heme for your celebration. From an outdoor autumn harvest to a New Year's masquerade, the sky's the limit. For a fun twist on holiday celebrations, consider having a favorite movie be the theme for the party. Include the theme on the invitations you send so guests know the details!

FoodW het her you're ser v i ng appetizers or planning a full-out feast, food is a party essential. Enhance your food service by renting everything you need for an impressive presentat ion. Si lver food

chafers, flatware, serving trays and more are available from your local ARA rental store. The expert staff can make recommendations based on your menu and help you select the perfect items for food and drink. You might even consider renting a few fun extras, such as a chocolate or champagne fountain to really impress guests and make your party stand out.

EntertainmentNo g reat hol iday pa r t y i s c o m p l e t e w i t h o u t entertainment. Let music set the mood by creating a custom playlist. Then amplify those tunes by renting a professional sound system and dance floor to watch guests move and grove. For movie-themed parties, consider renting a projector so guests can view the flick in style! Finally, casino or carnival games are sure way to get everyone involved in the festivities and provide fun for all ages.

DecorYou may already have some decor to use at your holiday-themed party, but to really impress this year, consider fresh ideas for stunning and unexpected decorations. If you prefer the DIY route, visit sites like Pinterest for ideas on how to create beautiful decor. If you're short on time or simply aren't crafty, you can rent table linens, runners and centerpieces. Visit www.

RentalHQ.com to learn more about affordable holiday decor rental options. When deciding on decor, don't forget about the importance of lighting. Not

BPT photoThis year, take your party to the next level to truly impress your guests -- without breaking the bank.

For a fun twist on holiday celebrations, consider having a favorite movie be the theme for the party.

Partiespage 12 ‰

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 201410 Holiday

many seasonal brews which are available for only a few months. You need to stock up on these when you can because they won’t be around for long.”

W hen g i f t g iv ing, Ma her suggested expa nding t he possibilities beyond simply buying a bottle of wine or a selection of craft beers.

“You can always make gift baskets which can include the bottle along with other Maine-made foods; jams, jel l ies or chocolate,” said Maher, whose store also has a selection of pottery from local artisans including goblets, mugs, plates and bowls. “We have wine gift bags, but you can always consider a locally crafted item to go along with the gift.”

A s f o r w h i c h w i n e o r craft beer to choose as a

gift, Maher is a wealth of information.

“When we stock our shelves, we choose w hat we a re interested in, not something that we like, but something that we might want to try,” said Maher. “I have tried everything on the shelf here.”

M a h e r ’s m ot h e r, L i nd a Ma her, who occasiona l ly helps out at t he s tore, admitted that she was never really a wine person until her son started the venture.

“I’ve lea rned a lot about wine,” she said. “Now, I have favorites.”

Waterman Farm Machinery Co Inc827 Sabattus Rd • Sabattus, ME 04280 (207) 375-6561

www.wfm1956.com

Farm ToysFor The Holidays

10% to 20% OFF

ALL TOYS ‘Til Christmas

www.ricksswimmingpools.com

POOLS AND SPAS

1057 Sabattus St, Lewiston

SaturdayNovember 29th

(207) 786-4256Sales • Service • Installation

Get $300 towards accessories!With the purchase of a hot tub!

1/2 OFF!All Spa Chemicals!

BOGO

*of equal or lesser value

Free!All Spa Scents!

BOGO

*of equal or lesser value

MAINE’S GOLF TRIFECTA PASS

ONLy$99SPRINGMEADOWS -GRAy

POLAND SPRING RESORT

FOX RIDGE GC - AUBURN

Play 18-holes with cart at each of Maine’s Trifecta Clubs.POLAND SPRING FOX RIDGE SPRING MEADOWS

All close to home! All great golf courses!• Valid 2015 golf season• Valid Monday - Thursday anytime• Valid Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Holidays after 12 noon• Tee times required• Must present card at time of play

Call the Poland Spring Resort 207-998-4351 to order yours today!

www.foxridgegolfclub.com www.polandspringresort.com www.springmeadowsgolf.com207-777-4653 207-998-6002 207-657-2586

The perfect holiday gift for your favorite golfer!

Poland Spring Auburn Gray

Dan Marois photoSome of the beers you might find at the Mahers' store in Poland.

Dan Marois photoSquare Root Natural Foods, in Poland, sells more than wine and beer.

Winefrom page 2 Away in a Manger

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,

The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head.

The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay,

The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,

But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.

I love thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky,

And stay by my side until morning is nigh.

Be near me Lord Jesus,I ask thee to stay.

Close by me forever,And love me I pray.

Bless all the dear children,In thy tender care.

And take them to heaven,To be with thee there.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 2014 Holiday 11

“Shoot moments, not poses. Have the oldest go nose-to-nose with the youngest or have a child look into a Christmas ball that ref lects their face.”

There are so many amazing Christ mas moments t hat don't happen Ch r ist ma s morning and don't involve opening presents.

“ W h at a b out t he n ig ht before when the kids place the cookies and milk out for Santa? Or reading a book in bed with Christmas pajamas. Have your camera on you during t he holidays, and there will probably be many special occasions or even unique and fleeting moments to capture with your camera.”

Other tips:

Try to coordinate clothing. They don’t have to match, just don’t have bold stripes or plaids make the photo too busy.

If taking photos of little ones, get down to their level. Let them have fun. Have them do a dog pile or get tangled up in the Christmas tree lights ... even let them stick their finger in the frosting.

Don’t have a photo w it h something to distract seeing the faces, such as a pile of crumpled wrapping paper, or a trash can ... for some reason, the first thing that people see is the one thing that’s out of place.

Fill your frame by getting up close or using your zoom feature.

Use props. A g ia nt box wrapped with a little one’s he a d p oppi n g out . L a y Christmas lights and balls on the floor around the children. Or maybe use the front door with a wreath or steps with poinsettias for group photos instead of the couch.

Chances are your photo will be of a better quality if you take a photo when they least expect it . Don’t count to three, just tell them to look at the camera and snap the photo. Even tell a quick joke;

there won’t be forced smiles, or the three seconds for a child to make a face.

Last, but not least, using the rule of thirds will make your photos more interest ing. Use imaginar y l ines, t wo horizontal and two vertical creating a tic-tac-toe grid. The main subject of your photo should never fall in the middle box.

One last important tip:

“Never let your photo taking get in the way of enjoying ‘your’ holiday.”

Our Annual HolidaySale Is Here

Now to 12/31/14

86 Exchange StreetPortland, Maine 04101www.myswisstime.com

Swiss Time

EverythingÕson sale upto 50% off

SeasonTis the

Subscribe & Save

To Buy a Subscription or Gift Certificate Call Susie at 207-725-8769Gift certificates also available at www.msmt.org/holiday

Save up to25% OffSingle Ticket Pricing With a Subscription

MAINE STATE MUSIC THEATRE

Plus a surprise show announced in January!

Keri Nelson taking pictures of sons Sawyer, Tucker and Hunter.

Jackie Rybeck photosDon't be afraid to get up close. From left, Tucker, Hunter and Sawyer Nelson.

Memoriesfrom page 3

“Sugar cookies, because they’re good.”

Sydney agreed, the best thing about sugar cookies is “eating them!”

“Aubrey loves peanut butter,” said her mom, Shelby, who had joined us in the kitchen – perhaps drawn by the smell of freshly baked cookies. “She has a really adventurous pallet.”

For example, an Aubrey favorite is pecan pie made by Clarke’s husband, Peter. Sydney, on the other hand is a bit timid. “It’s got to be visually appealing,” said Clarke. “If it’s not, it doesn’t pass her lips.”

For Clarke, it’s all about “spending time together and making new memories.” With mouths full of cookie, Aubrey and Shelby nodded in agreement.

Clarke’s hope is that as they get older, the things they’ve learned from her will travel with them through their lives, and that the knowledge and passion for sharing both the products and the processes that they’ve learned in her kitchen will get passed along with favorite family recipes. “I hope that they’ll teach it to their own kids someday.”

Goodiesfrom page 7

Debbie Clarke, of Wales, watc hes as her granddaughters show off a plate of cookies the trio made together.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Thursday, November 27, 201412 Holiday

1 Garfield Rd, Auburn • 344-6622 • www.ridebackwoods.com

LAYAWAYSGIFT CERTIFICATES

• Trade Ins Welcome•Package Pricing •Used Equipment Available

ToolsBootsLocksGlovesWaxesBoardsGogglesHelmetsBindingsOuterwearAccessoriesTuning Equipment

30%-50% OFF ALL LEFTOVER PRODUCTS

$3999Includes: Base Grinding, Machine Edging, Hot Wax, Base BuffTUNEUPS

Gear Gift idea's for Men, Women, and Kids

Follow us: Backwoods Snowboards and Skateboards backwoods2005

Toys R Us Toys for Tots Marines programTo help bring holiday joy to some of the 14.7 million U.S. children living in poverty, To y s “ R ” U s a n n o u n c e d the launch of its annual n at ionw ide f u nd r a i s i ng c a m p a i g n t o b e n e f i t the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. Now through Sunday, Dec. 7, consumers can donate new, unwrapped toys at any Toys“R”Us or Babies“R”Us store across t he countr y and online at Toysrus.com/ToysforTots. The company will also collect monetary donations in-store and online through Christmas Eve.

A g a i n t h i s y e a r, N B A legend, philanthropist and entrepreneur Shaquille O’Neal is reporting back to Toys for Tots duty as his alter ego Shaq-A-Claus to encourage customers to donate to the cause, a long w ith a new mission that will help double the giving: the #PlayItForward Challenge. Throughout the campaign, Shaq-A-Claus is asking supporters to take the ultimate “un-selfie” – a photo of themselves donating a toy in any Toys“R”Us store across the country. For every selfie shared using #PlayItForward, Toys“R”Us will donate an additional toy to Toys for Tots, ensuring even more children in need have a toy to open on

Christmas morning.

“I personally know that play can positively impact the life of a child. When I was young, it was a basketball I received on Christmas morning that empowered me to dream that I could someday become a basketball star,” said O’Neal. “Growing up, my parents always impressed upon me the importance of giving back to those in need, and that even the small gift of a toy could make a big difference in someone’s life – like it did in mine. My partnership with Toys“R”Us to collect toys and raise funds for Toys for Tots puts a smile on my face and gives me a sense of great pride, and this season, I’m calling on all my little elves to help #PlayItForward to make a Shaq-sized difference in kids’ lives!”

To y s “ R ” U s w i l l t r i p l e its cha ritable g i f t ing on Tuesday, Dec. 2, now known as #GivingTuesday, a social media movement designed to kick off the season of giving. On this day, the company will donate two toys to Toys for Tots for every donation selfie posted on social media using #PlayItForward.

T h r o u g h o u t t h e 2 014

c a mp a ig n, f a n s of t he Toys“R”Us Facebook page, as well as its followers on Twitter and Instagram, will enjoy exclusive content, including special messages from Shaq-A-Claus, fundraising updates and more. To help spread awareness and further engage t he on l i ne c om mu n it y, the company has created a viral video series in which Shaq-A-Claus demonstrates how to #PlayItForward and encourages others to do the same. To motivate his own followers to #PlayItForward, Shaq-A-Claus will also Tweet and Instagram (@SHAQ), as well as post on Facebook at Facebook.com/ShaqVerified.

“For more than a decade, To y s “ R ” U s h a s b e e n instrumental in helping Toys for Tots deliver happiness on Christmas morning to the millions of kids living in poverty throughout the U.S.,” said Lt. Gen. Pete Osman, USMC (Ret.), president and CEO, Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “And this year, Toys“R”Us will do one better and donate even more toys to

the Foundation through the #PlayItForward challenge. This is why we urge a l l Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us customers to donate and participate in the social media initiative, helping ensure this year is a record-breaking success in reaching even more kids in need.”

To make it even easier to # P l a y I t F o r w a r d w h i l e shopping with Toys“R”Us, the company is once again offering customers The Great Big Shaq-A-Claus Wish List, the official Toys for Tots wish list filled with toy suggestions, including crafts, play sets, electronics, plush and more, that are sure to excite and delight children. Parents and gift-givers can view The Great Big Shaq-A-Claus Wish List on the company’s dedicated Toys for Tots hub at Toysrus.com/ToysforTots, where visitors can buy toys online and ship them directly to Toys for Tots. Additionally, supporters can view a special message from Shaq-A-Claus, find out more about the organization and make a monetary donation.

only do the right lights create the ideal ambience, they also provide an element of safety and brighten up dark spaces so guests have more room to mingle.

ExtrasThe extra touches - big and small - are what truly spice up a party and give it that professionally planned feel. Small additions like coat racks eliminate the pile of coats and purses, keeping rooms

neat and tidy. Extra chairs ensure guests are comfortable whether they are visiting, eating or drinking. For a truly festive celebration, rent a bar and set up a drink station with all the barware needed to really impress guests. If you're having a big party, don't pack into your house -- rent a tent and heaters if necessary and let the good times roll!

Come up with a few fresh ideas and rent some unique items that guests won't expect, and you'll set a new standard for hosting parties among your friends and family.

Partiesfrom page 9