Bangor Metro_Jan/Feb 2021

Feather Your Nest

FINDING YOUR DESIGN STYLE

Romantic

A GUIDE TO

Healthy

HOUSE PLANTS

$5.95

OUTDOOR WINTER DATES

January/February 2021

BOOKS WE’RE OBSESSED WITH RIGHT NOW

CONTENTS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

NEW SECTION! 34

PERSONAL FINANCE

Check out the first feature in our new monthly guide to improving your financial health.

FEATURES 38 EMBRACE A HAPPY PHILOSOPHY From hygge to gezellig, warm up to a cozy state of mind

44

FEATHER YOUR NEST

A guide to finding your own home design aesthetic

50

GREEN THUMB

Find the houseplants that are best suited for Maine

44

FEATHER YOUR NEST

50

GREEN THUMB

56 TAKE YOUR ROMANCE OUTSIDE Ideas for fun outdoor dates

IN EVERY ISSUE 08

WHAT’S HAPPENING

12

OBSESSIONS

What we can’t get enough of this month

64

THE VIEW FROM HERE

Churning the pot

ON THE COVER We’re all about getting cozy at home this winter.

Art by Amy Allen

2 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

PHOTOS: (TOP) KATARZYNA BIALASIEWICZ PHOTOGRAPHEE.EU/ ADOBE STOCK; (BOTTOM) ©FOLLOWTHEFLOW/ADOBE STOCK

Local events & Metro’s Pop Quiz

ARTS & CULTURE 10

CELEBRATING DIVERSITY

Individuals to honor throughout Black History Month

FOOD & DRINK 14

IN SEASON NOW

Warm up with these tasty soup recipes

16

EAT MORE CHOCOLATE

It’s a fact, chocolate is good for you

HEALTH & FITNESS 20

THE REVISED ROUTINE

Working out around Covid-19

24

HIKE ME

Find winter walks with ocean views

HOME & FAMILY 30

CRAFTING WITH KIDS

Make easy hot cocoa bombs at home

32

TIPS FOR “THE TALK”

A parents guide to talking with kids about sex

OUTSIDE 62

WOODS & WATERS

Tips to bring all the birds to your yard www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 3

EDITOR’S NOTE

FiSILVER nding theLINING IN LATE NOVEMBER, as a friend and I lamented the expectations versus reality of 2020, she said something thought-provoking. I’m paraphrasing here, but she said that when things don’t go as we planned, maybe it’s because the universe has something better in store for us.

It’s been in my head ever since.

AS WE ENTER 2021, I AM FOCUSING ON THE POSITIVE — FROM GETTING MORE TIME WITH MY KIDS TO FINALLY LEARNING TO KNIT. I HOPE YOU ARE TOO. BECAUSE EVEN IN DARK TIMES, THERE ARE SILVER LININGS. In this issue, we’re looking at ways to make your own silver linings — things like taking control of your personal debt (page 34) and embracing ways to live a cozier life (page 38). We’re also encouraging you to find your home decorating style (page 44) and perhaps eat a little chocolate (page 16). And we hope you can get outside for some of the lovely hikes in this month’s Hike ME (page 24).

And I hope that this year brings more light than darkness, more happiness than devastation and more good news than bad.

SARAH WALKER CARON, EDITOR

Connect With Us Online bangormetro.com facebook.com/BangorMetro @BangorMetro bangormetro talkback@bangormetro.com

www.bangormetro.com P.O. Box 1329 Bangor, Maine 04402-1329 Phone: 207.990.8000

PUBLISHER

Richard J. Warren

EDITOR

Sarah Walker Caron scaron@bangordailynews.com

SALES MANAGER

Laurie Cates

lcates@bangordailynews.com

ART DIRECTOR

Amy Allen

aallen@bangordailynews.com

SUBSCRIPTION & PROMOTIONS MANAGER

Fred Stewart

fstewart@bangordailynews.com

STAFF WRITER

Julia Bayly jbayly@bangordailynews.com

STAFF WRITER

Rosemary Lausier rlausier@bangordailynews.com

STAFF WRITER

Aislinn Sarnacki asarnacki@bangordailynews.com

STAFF WRITER

Sam Schipani sschipani@bangordailynews.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Stephanie Bouchard, Bob Duchesne, Meg Haskell, Emily Morrison, Kaylie Reese, Richard Shaw, Katie Smith www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 5

6 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

WHAT’S YOUR

FAVORITE

Bangor Metro Magazine. January/February 2021, Vol. 17, No. 1.

Copyright © Bangor Publishing Company.

Bangor Metro is published 10 times annually by Bangor Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

This magazine may not be reproduced in whole or part in any form without the written permission of the Publisher.

Bangor Metro is mailed at standard rates from Portland, Maine.

Opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements do not represent the opinions of the staff or publisher of Bangor Metro magazine. Advertisers and event sponsors or their agents are responsible for copyrights and accuracy of all material they submit.

Bangor Metro magazine to the best of its ability ensures the acuracy of information printed in the publication.

Inquiries and suggestions are welcome and encouraged. Letters to the editor, story suggestions, and other reader input will be subject to Bangor Metro’s unrestricted right to edit and publish in the magazine both in print and online.

WINTER MOVIE?

“

‘Fargo,’ no doubt. Cohen Brothers plus sweeping snowy shots of the plains plus Frances McDormand with a delicious accent? Yes, please. The fact that there are four seasons of the television show that follow it with a mostly similar wintery vibe doesn’t hurt, either.”

Editorial: Queries should be sent to Sarah Walker Caron at scaron@bangordailynews.com.

Advertising: For advertising questions, please call the Sales Director Todd Johnston at 207-990-8129.

Subscriptions/Address Change: The one year subscription cost is $15.95. Address changes: to ensure delivery, subscribers must notify the magazine of address changes one month in advance of the cover date. Please contact Fred Stewart at 207-990-8075.

Accounts Payable/Receivable: For information about your account please contact Todd Johnston at 207-990-8129.

— SAM SCHIPANI, STAFF WRITER “I love the movie ‘Fargo.’ It’s quirky, wonderfully cast and even though I have seen it multiple times, the plot twists and turns still surprise me. Plus, it’s set in the midwest in the middle of winter with such attention to detail I always feel like I need to put on a parka before I watch it. And come on — is there anything better than the look on Frances McDormand’s face when she rounds the corner of the lakeside cabin at the end of the movie?”

— JULIA BAYLY, STAFF WRITER

COVER DESIGN: Amy Allen

“‘The Shining?’”

— BOB DUCHESNE, COLUMNIST “I gotta go with ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.’ Nobody does the holidays better than the Griswolds.”

— EMILY MORRISON, COLUMNIST “‘Grumpy Old Men!’” — KAYLIE REESE, CONTRIBUTOR “The movies that I love watching in the winter are ‘Little Women’ and ‘The Holiday.’ They both include winter scenes; the first time I saw them was flying in the winter and they’re movies I love snuggling up on the couch to watch.

— ROSEMARY LAUSIER, STAFF WRITER “That would have to be ‘Frozen,’ the Disney movie about two sisters, an ice palace and a family secret that is too big to be hidden. I love the music, the landscape and the characters so much. And I love the reminder that sometimes we just need to ‘Let It Go!’” — SARAH WALKER CARON, EDITOR

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 7

WHAT’S HAPPENING

BRRR!

JAN/FEB JAN. 1–2 NYE WITH MATT MARCY MAGIC

Mindboggling magic. Sidesplitting comedy. This high-energy, interactive show, filled with intelligent comedy and original mind-blowing magic is sure to dazzle even the most discriminating of audiences. This is a live online performance. $45/ household; Subscribers: $40/household.

For more information on single tickets, subscriptions, and season offerings please visit penobscottheatre.org. The live show will also be available on Thursday, Dec. 31 with two performances.

FEB. 5–7 31ST ANNUAL U.S. NATIONAL TOBOGGAN CHAMPIONSHIPS Gather your family and friends and make tracks to the U.S. National Toboggan Championships, held in Camden at the Camden Snow Bowl.

Toboggan racing, costume competition, best crafted toboggan judging, vendors, ice shanties, live music, beer tent and more. Registration for the team slots is required.

Winter is here — let’s see what you know about this snowy season!

FEB. 7–28 THE TINIEST LIBRARIAN

A tiny puppet musical! Miss Susan is the tiniest, loneliest librarian in the world.

Bigger people don’t seem to notice her at all! In search of a valentine, Tiny Miss Susan immerses herself in the very books on her shelves — launching her into a wild and unforgettable adventure! Written by and starring Brittany Parker. Streamed. $20/ household; Subscribers: $15/household.

For more information on single tickets, subscriptions, and season offerings please visit penobscottheatre.org. The online performance will be prerecorded.

ONGOING BUY A COPY OF “PANDEMIC STROLLS BANGOR”

“Pandemic Strolls Bangor” is a photo book of images taken around Bangor in 2020, created to raise money for Together Place Peer Run Recovery Center in Bangor. But it’s more than that — the book is also a record of what one city, our city, looked and felt like during a historic year — good and bad. It can be purchased for $20 online at togetherplace.org/pandemic-strolls-bangor or at small businesses downtown including Rebecca’s, Country Blessings, Rock & Art Shop and Grindhouse.

W.A. BEAN & SONS NAMED BY FOOD AND WINE AS ONE OF THE TOP 100 BUTCHER SHOPS AND MEAT MARKETS IN THE COUNTRY!

“It’s an honor for our company to be recognized as one of this country’s oldest and best Butcher Shops/Meat Markets. It is a real testament to our hard working employees that have put in valuable time over the years here for our company,” said David Bean, President.

PAID BUSINESS ANNOUNCEMENT FOR W.A. BEAN & SONS

Find answers below.

Answers to this month’s Pop Quiz: Question 1: B; Q2: A; Q3: B; Q4: A; Q5: C. 8 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

PHOTO: BDN FILE

Celebrating its 160th year in business, W. A. Bean & Sons has recently been named by Food & Wine magazine as one of the Top 100 Butcher and Meat Markets in the country. Food & Wine has long been established as the tastemakers and influencers in the Food and Beverage Industry and compiled an in-depth list that was released on Nov. 20.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 9

ARTS & CULTURE

Celebrating

DIVERSITY INDIVIDUALS TO HONOR THROUGHOUT BLACK HISTORY MONTH COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE

AMERICA LONG HAS BEEN described as a melting pot. People from all cultures, continents and walks of life have blended together to paint the canvas that is the United States.

African Americans have played a significant role in forming the fabric of the United States, and every February we recognize the accomplishments of African Americans and give thanks for their contributions to medicine, the arts, sports, business, law, and much more.

The following is a small sampling of the myriad African American individuals past and present who have made their mark on American history.

MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE Mary McLeod Bethune was an educator, civil rights leader and adviser to five United States presidents. She turned to her faith and used her voice to be a pioneer for racial progress. Education long had been at the core of Bethune’s mission, and she founded two schools and later became one of few female college presidents.

PHOTO: TKTK

ALVIN AILEY Alvin Ailey was a modern dance choreographer and pioneer. He also was a civil rights activist. He founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, which became one of the most successful dance companies in the world. His company was an amalgam of faces and cultures, making it unique for its time.

10 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

RYAN COOGLER Ryan Coogler is the director of what has been dubbed the “biggest, blackest superhero movie” in recent history — and perhaps all time. Marvel Studio’s “Black Panther” took in $1.3 billion worldwide and became a cultural touchstone. Coogler proved he is a director of note, and the public is bound to see much more of his work in the future, including a potential “Panther” sequel.

SERENA WILLIAMS Serena Williams is arguably the greatest female tennis player of all time. Serena Williams has more than 20 Grand Slam titles to her name and is a face and advocate for working women. One of her more notable recent accomplishments is her successful return to the court just one year after nearly dying from complications that arose during the birth of her daughter — once again proving her mettle.

ROBERT ABBOTT Giving voice to African Americans in a different way, Robert Abbot was a pioneer of the black press. He founded a weekly paper called The Chicago Defender, which would become one of the most important newspapers in history in the early 20th century. Abbott’s work would eventually pave the way for many other publications.

ARETHA FRANKLIN The world lost the “Queen of Soul” in 2018, but her influence and resounding voice live on. Her gospel-infused singing was born out of church choirs, and her famous No. 1 hit “Respect” helped become a soundtrack not only for women, but also the civil rights movement. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, Franklin’s influence could be heard through singers like Whitney Houston, Beyoncé and more.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 11

OBSESSIONS

OBSESSIONS WHAT WE CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF THIS MONTH.

DO LISTEN HOME COOKING PODCAST WHY DO WE LOVE IT? The Home Cooking podcast hosted by Samin Nosrat of Netflix’s “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat” fame and Hrishikesh Hirway from another excellent podcast (and, incidentally, now Netflix show) “Song Exploder” is a sheer delight.

The two friends talk about their experiences cooking at home during the pandemic (Samin is a professional chef; Hrishikesh, enthusiastically, is not) and field listeners’ cooking questions.

— SAM SCHIPANI

DOWN DOG YOGA APP WHY DO WE LOVE IT? Figuring out an at-home fitness routine during pandemic times is tricky, especially if you live on in a second-floor apartment and aren’t a huge fan of rattling the whole house by jumping up and down (hi, me). For me, Down Dog Yoga has been a lifesaver in that respect. Not only does it provide basically limitless yoga routines for your stretching pleasure, but you can customize the routine by length, skill level and — best of all — the part of the body you want to focus on (I find myself needing lower back, neck and hip flexor workouts after sitting at my work-from-home kitchen table set up all day). The app costs a little bit of money ($7.99 a month or $49.99 for the year), but trust me, it’s worth it.

— SAM SCHIPANI

WEAR THE COMFY WHY DO WE LOVE IT? Lots of things changed in 2020. My kitchen table became my work desk. My cat probably thinks I’ve quit my job to spend all my time petting her. But one thing that didn’t change was my need to be cozy. I’m currently obsessed with The Comfy — a ridiculously oversized blanket that functions as a sweatshirt, covering most of my petite frame in a mass of fleece and Sherpa lining. I’m not one to waste money on unnecessary things — especially those that can essentially be replicated by wrapping oneself in a warm blanket and whose packaging flaunts a sticker that reads, “As seen on Shark Tank!” Yet, I’m obsessed with it. It’s one of those things that you don’t need, but somehow, it makes life better. And right now, I’m not sparing myself of any small luxury, no matter how absurd it looks on. The Comfy can be purchased at stores such as Kohl’s and Target, or online.

— NINA MAHALERIS 12 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

GET ORIGINAL MAINE FLAG BEANIE WHY DO WE LOVE IT? I love the original Maine pine-tree-and-star flag. I believe it to be the superior Maine flag, and I shan’t be convinced otherwise. As such, I love the Portland-based company Original Maine, which has a variety of pins, patches, flags and apparel all with this original design. My favorite, though, is the knit Original Maine Flag Beanie, which proudly displays the patch across the cuffed rim. I think I might order my boyfriend and I matching ones for Christmas.

— SAM SCHIPANI

READ Every month, many new books cross my desk. I purchase even more. These are a few that I particularly enjoyed and recommend.

“THE BEST AMERICAN FOOD WRITING 2020” EDITED BY J. KENJI LOPEZ-ALT — What I love about the annual collection of food writing is that it offers a broad view of food’s influence on life, culture and people. This year’s collection is particularly strong, featuring stories about everything from the weaponization of grits to New Coke’s demise. There’s even a piece by Maine writer Katy Kelleher in there. Worth a read if you like food writing as much as I do. (NONFICTION) “BUNHEADS” BY MISTY COPELAND — When little Misty takes her first ballet class, she learns they will be performing the ballet Coppelia and instantly falls in love with the story. Before long, Misty is learning routines and readying for her big performance. For every young dancer, this is the story of hope, determination and appreciating each other’s talents. I loved it so. ( CHILDREN’S)

PHOTOS: ©MELINDA NAGY, ©S_L/ADOBE STOCK

“EVERYTHING I NEVER TOLD YOU” BY CELESTE NG — After being entranced by Celeste Ng’s second novel, “Little Fires Everywhere,” and its tale of family and power dynamics, I was intrigued to read her debut novel, “Everything I Never Told You.” The novel is about a Chinese American family living in 1970s small-town Ohio. The mother, once a promising student aiming to be a doctor, now is grooming her oldest daughter to be what she never was. But the pressures of expectation and bright glare of attention leave Lydia no room to be herself. Told through the aftermath of Lydia’s unexpected death alternating with Lydia’s reality in the time leading to her death, the powerful story is a deep, heart-wrenching look at family and the power we have over each other. (FICTION)

— SARAH WALKER CARON www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 13

in season now

FOOD & DRINK

HOMEMADE SOUP

STORY & PHOTOS BY SARAH WALKER CARON

HOMEMADE SOUP IS the ultimate in comfort food. Like a warm hug, it envelopes you in flavors and good feelings. And now that we’re hitting the stride of winter, it’s a great time to put a pot on.

You’ll want to get out the stock pot or your favorite Dutch oven for these recipes. Either will be perfect for sauteing the fragrant ingredients and simmering together the soup.

And when it comes time for serving, how will you dish it out? Shall you use bowls or convenient large mugs? I’ve become more and more enamored with soup served in big mugs in recent years — the handle makes it so handy for holding, if you’re digging in around the fireplace instead of at the table.

But, of course, either way is great.

Soups like these are wonderful for serving with bread — homemade or store-bought, Italian, French or cornbread, anything goes.

And with those two simple things, you have a meal full of comfort, perfect for this time of year.

VEGETABLE BASIL SOUP 6 servings

INGREDIENTS 1 tbsp olive oil 1 yellow onion, diced 2 cups diced carrots 1 zucchini, diced 1 28-oz can petite diced tomatoes (no-salt added recommended) 4 cups vegetable stock 1 cup chopped fresh basil salt and pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven, or a large pot. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden — about 10 minutes. Add the carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes and vegetable stock to the pan. Stir well. Stir in the basil.

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 hour, or until carrots are tender. Taste, and season as desired with salt and pepper. Enjoy.

PHOTOS: (BOTTOM BOWL) SARAH WALKER CARON; (ABOVE) ©PINKYONE, ©COOK_INSPIRE/ ADOBE STOCK

1 cup diced bell peppers

ALPHABET CHICKEN SOUP 4 servings

INGREDIENTS 1 tbsp unsalted butter 1 tbsp olive oil 2 celery ribs, small diced 2 carrots, peeled and small diced 1 yellow onion, small diced ½ lb chicken breast, small diced salt and pepper ½ tsp dried thyme 4 cups chicken broth 1⁄3 cup alphabet pasta

INSTRUCTIONS In a large stockpot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter is melted. Add the celery, carrots and onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened — about 7-8 minutes.

Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Stir well, cooking until the chicken is opaque on all sides. (Note: it will finish cooking in the broth, so it need only be opaque on the outside.)

Stir in the dried thyme and chicken broth. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.

Stir in the pasta. Cook for 7 minutes or until al dente. Remove from heat. Taste, and adjust seasonings as desired. Enjoy.

LENTIL SOUP WITH PANCETTA 4 servings

INSTRUCTIONS

PHOTOS: (SOUP) SARAH WALKER CARON; (NOODLES) ©OLEKSANDR/ADOBE STOCK

INGREDIENTS 3 oz. diced pancetta 1 sweet onion (vidalia), diced 4 carrots, sliced 1 red bell pepper, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1/2 tsp dried rosemary 1/2 tsp turmeric 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes (do not drain) 11/2 cup lentils, rinsed and picked over 6 cups water

In a stockpot set over medium heat, brown the pancetta (about 7-10 minutes). Using a slotted spoon, remove the pancetta from the stockpot to a bowl, leaving the rendered fat.

Add the onions, carrots and red pepper to the book. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened. The onions should be translucent (about 7-8 minutes).

Stir the garlic, thyme, rosemary, turmeric, salt and pepper into the pan. Let cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Add the crushed tomatoes with their juices, lentils and water to the pan. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 1 hour.

Stir the pancetta back into the pot. Enjoy.

SARAH WALKER CARON is the editor of Bangor Metro Magazine and the author of five cookbooks including the “Easy Frugal Cookbook,” released in July. Her book “Classic Diners of Maine” is available where books are sold. Signed copies are available at The Briar Patch in Bangor.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 15

PHOTO: ©SEA WAVE/ADOBE STOCK

FOOD & DRINK

16 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

Eat More CHOCOLATE IT’S A FACT, CHOCOLATE IS GOOD FOR YOU

BY JULIA BAYLY

FROM RICH CREAMY MILK to bittersweet, few treats feel or taste more decadent or satisfying than chocolate. On its own, with nuts or paired with fruit, there is just something about nibbling on the confection that makes people happy. And the best part of all is that it can also be good for you.

Numerous studies have shown there are real cognitive and health benefits to eating chocolate.

But before you run out and buy a 10-pound box of gourmet truffles to eat while watching your favorite movie, there’s a catch. It’s important to know how much chocolate and what kinds are good for you.

BRAIN HEALTH A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science looked at phytonutrients called flavonoids, a chemical found in the cacao plant which is used to make chocolate. Those flavonoids are not only antioxidants but some studies have also shown they may play a role in preventing cancer.

Additionally, flavonoids also help your body produce nitric oxide which are the chemicals that help your blood vessels relax and lower your blood pressure, reduce your risk of stroke and help maintain overall heart health.

They also have multiple effects on the brain at the cellular and molecular levels in the regions involved in learning and memory, according to a study published by a group of international scientists including University of Maine professor Dr. Merrill Elias.

While the researchers did stop short of touting chocolate as a brain food, they did find that people who ate chocolate at least once a week performed better on cognitive functions than people who did not.

It did not matter if it was milk or dark chocolate, either.

The cacao plant also contains the compound theobromine which can also help lower your blood pressure in addition to reducing inflammation.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 17

PHOTO: ©FAHRWASSER/ADOBE STOCK

FOOD & DRINK

18 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

FEELING FULL Motivation to work out can be hard to find on those dark, gray, cold days in the middle of a Maine winter. It can be really easy, on the other hand, to plunk down on the couch and snack while binging Netflix.

And maybe that’s kind of okay, if you are reaching for dark chocolate.

Turns out snacking on dark chocolate can help control your appetite and even lead to weight loss. Studies have shown that eating a bit of dark chocolate before a meal will signal your brain that you are full.

Plus, it can be good for your skin too.

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that the vitamins found in dark chocolate are full of minerals like copper, iron and magnesium. These minerals are all good for your existing skin and for the production of new skin cells.

POST-WORKOUT RECOVERY As for working out, instead of reaching for an expensive, chemical-laden sports drink for your post exercise recovery hydration, pour yourself a tall glass of low fat chocolate milk.

Chocolate milk has three to four times the complex carbohydrates of regular milk plus protein. When you workout, your body uses carbs as fuel and just like the gas in your car, your own tank needs to be refilled when it runs low. Chocolate milk has the right amount of carbohydrates, it’s easy to digest, easy for the muscles to absorb and it tastes good.

THE FINE PRINT All of this is great news for lovers of chocolate. However, in the case of eating chocolate, more is not better.

First of all, if you are looking for health benefits, you are going to want to skip milk chocolate and its added sugars and fats altogether. Instead, select a good quality dark chocolate containing 70 to 85 percent cacao. It’s tasty and because the flavors are so strong, many people feel satisfied with just a small amount.

And that’s a good thing considering a 3.5 ounce bar of dark chocolate contains more than 600 calories and 43 grams of fat. Instead, nutritionists recommend eating just one or two ounces a day.

Now that you know the good news about chocolate — and the caveats — stock up for the winter! There’s a lot of good science on your side to prove that a little chocolate really can improve your day. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 19

PHOTOS: ©PICSFIVE, ©IGOR SOKOLOV, ©STANPROJECT, ©PROSTOCK-STUDIO/ ADOBE STOCK

HEALTH & FITNESS

20 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

The Revised

ROUTINE COVID-19 UPENDED MY GYM ROUTINE. HERE’S MY SIMPLE WORK-AROUND.

BY MEG HASKELL

NO ONE WOULD CONFUSE me with a true fitness fanatic, but, back in 2019, I became something of a gym rat. With help from the trainers at my local fitness center, I nailed down a routine that worked for me: half an hour at a gentle trot on the treadmill, followed by 45 minutes of sweaty sit-ups, pull-ups, push-downs, biceps curls, triceps extensions, leg presses and more.

A shower, a short soak in the hot tub and I was done.

I came to deeply enjoy this vigorous workout, and, for over a year, stuck faithfully to my everyother-day commitment.

Then came 2020, and COVID-19. In March, along with a lot of other businesses, my gym shut down.

Surely, I thought, it will reopen soon and I can get back to my fitness routine. But the weeks dragged on, and, even when my gym did open its doors, in May, it didn’t feel safe to go there.

It still doesn’t.

I’m in my mid-60s and at high risk of developing a severe illness from the coronavirus, so I’m pretty wary.

It was easy to stay active during the warm months, what with outside chores and the hiking and paddling activities I enjoy. But Maine’s long winter presented a greater challenge. I realized I had to make a workable plan and stick with it if I didn’t want to lose ground.

So, since early November, I have maintained a pretty solid routine. Every other morning, I get up and immediately dress for my outside workout. I take a drink of water, bundle my old dog into her fleecy coat and step out into the cold day. We take a slow, almost two-mile jog/trot to the end of the road and back, with a short stretch break halfway through. Back at the house, I drink more water and do a bit more stretching before coffee and breakfast.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 21

HEALTH & FITNESS On alternate mornings, I spend about 30 minutes on simple yoga stretches, with a focus on developing strength, balance and flexibility. After yoga, I do 20 belly crunches and 10 push-ups, twice, then some arm exercises using two five-pound weights.

It’s a simple plan, but it’s working for me. Here are some things I’ve learned: MY MOTIVATION IS HIGHEST FIRST THING IN THE MORNING. If I wander downstairs in my robe and start reading the news with a cup of coffee, I may never get back on track.

THE RIGHT CLOTHES ARE IMPORTANT, even if no one’s looking, and my mindset improves if I dress the part. Really cold weather calls for careful layers of sweat-wicking underwear, warm tights, fleecy tops and a wind-resistant outer layer. Consider heated gloves or warming inserts. You should also have a warm hat and a face mask — either a traditional, cold-weather balaclava or one of the new COVID-style masks designed for athletic wear. For yoga, I generally wear lightweight leggings and a loose top.

FOOTWEAR IS CRITICAL, STARTING WITH WARM SOCKS. The cross-trainer shoes I used at the gym are fine most of the time, but on super-cold mornings I lace up my lightweight hiking boots, adding stretchy grippers if the road is at all icy. They’re not easy to jog in, but I make do. If it’s extremely cold, windy or otherwise foul outside, I stay in and do my yoga routine instead, barefoot.

Though not as rigorous as my gym workouts, this is a challenging-enough routine for me. It’s relatively simple, adaptable to changes in weather, and doesn’t require any investment in equipment. Because it’s repetitive and planned, I don’t have to decide if I “feel like it” — I just do it. It gets me off to a great start every morning. And, when the day comes that I feel safe going back to the gym, I won’t be starting from scratch.

A FEW RESOURCES: The Internet is a valuable source of information on health and fitness during this pandemic. Some gyms and other organizations offer online classes in yoga, tai chi, weight training and other activities. A number of sites will help track your activity, diet and other information. You can pay a lot of money for memberships, but I like these freebies.

MY FITNESS PAL (WWW.MYFITNESSPAL.COM) — Offers workouts, diet plans and a daily tracker to measure your progress.

U.S. CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION (WWW.CDC.GOV/PHYSICALACTIVITY) — For general information, inspiration and instruction, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has some great ideas for staying active, even during this pandemic.

PHOTO: ©PRESSMASTER/ADOBE STOCK

THIRTY DAYS OF YOGA — A series of short workouts available on YouTube.

GETTING STARTED WITH YOGA You can find lots of yoga classes online, including options from local gyms and fitness professionals. Here are some basic yoga poses to help you get started and learn the lingo.

Remember, always consult your doctor before starting a new physical activity.

COBRA SEATED TWIST

TREE

LOTUS

WARRIOR 1

WARRIOR 2

TRY THIS SIMPLE SEQUENCE AT HOME Work your way through this sequence of yoga poses for beginners. Hold each of these poses for one minute each, while being mindful about your breathing.

ď ľ 1. CAT-COW POSE (REPEAT 4-5 TIMES)

3. DOWNWARD-FACING DOG

4. FORWARD BEND

2. CHILD'S POSE

5. MOUNTAIN POSE

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HIKE ME

Winter Walks with

OCEAN VIEWS

EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE BEAUTIFUL TRAILS STORY & PHOTOS BY AISLINN SARNACKI

A THIN LAYER of glittering snow crunches under her boots as she walks along the woodland path. Above, a cloudless blue sky peeks through gaps in the evergreen canopy, and sunlight streams through, lighting patches of frozen forest floor.

As the trail starts to climb, the hiker notices her feet slipping on packed snow and ice. Finding a fallen tree trunk to sit on, she pulls ice cleats out of her pack and straps them onto the bottom of her boots. Just a few rows of small metal spikes, the cleats provide her with the traction she needs to continue her trek safely.

Her heart pumps faster as she trudges up the slope, her breath fogging in the frigid air. The exercise quickly warms her up. The day doesn’t feel nearly as cold as it did when she first stepped out of her vehicle at the trailhead parking lot.

Atop the hill, she follows wooden signs directing her to an overlook at the edge of a cliff. Patches of granite bedrock lay exposed among humps of powdery snow, pushed around and piled up by the wind. Moving cautiously, she nears the lip of the cliff and takes in the view — acres of snow-dusted trees and beyond that, the ocean, deep blue and rippled with waves.

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LOOKOUT ROCK

IN BROOKSVILLE EASY TO MODERATE Lookout Rock is an outcropping on a rocky hill in Brooksville. Covered with pitch pines and other evergreen trees, the hill is a high point in the area, rising 244 feet above sea level. At Lookout Rock and two other open areas on the hill, hikers are rewarded with stunning views of the nearby Eggemoggin Reach.

The landmark is located on the 17.6-acre Lookout Rock Preserve, which is owned and maintained by Maine Coast Heritage Trust. The trail leading to the overlooks measures just under 0.5 mile and is marked with blue blazes, wooden signs etched with blue arrows and the occasional cairn (rock pile).

Expect tricky footing in some areas.

Dogs are permitted but must be kept under control at all times. Exercise caution at the overlooks,

where you’ll find small cliffs. Fires and camping are not permitted. For more information, visit mcht.org or call 207-729-7366.

DIRECTIONS: The preserve parking area is on Herrick Road in Brooksville. Herrick Road is 3.6 miles long and spans between Route 176 and Route 15, bending around the west side of Walker Pond. If coming from Route 176, the preserve parking lot is about 1.8 miles down Herrick Road on your right, just after Winneganek Way (which will also be on your right). If coming from Route 15, the preserve parking lot is about 1.7 miles down Herrick Road on your left, just after Robin Hood Road (which will be on your right). The parking lot is marked with a sign and can hold several vehicles.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

HIKE ME

COMPASS HARBOR TRAIL

IN BAR HARBOR EASY

Located just outside downtown Bar Harbor, the Compass Harbor Trail is a walking path that explores the former estate of George B. Dorr, a man who was known as the “father of Acadia National Park.” Dorr served as the park’s first superintendent from 1919 to 1944, and donated the 58-acre property — known as Old Farm — to the park two years before his death.

Starting at Route 3, the 0.4-mile trail starts as a single wide path, then splits into a loop. Throughout, numbered posts serve as markers for a virtual tour, which can be downloaded as a free mobile app called Oldfarm.

26 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

As the trail nears the coast, several side trails split off and lead down the steep bank to a beach on Compass Harbor. There you’ll find a combination of ragged rocks, cobblestones and patches of silky sand. You’ll also find large granite blocks, which are the remains of Dorr’s saltwater pool, and the remains of an old rock staircase that leads from the pool to the woods.

All visitors to Acadia National Park are required to pay an entrance fee upon entry May through October.

Park passes are available online and at several locations throughout the island. Dogs are permitted on this trail if

on a leash no longer than 6 feet long. For more information, call 207-288-3338 or visit nps.gov/acad.

DIRECTIONS: From the intersection of Mount Desert Street and Main Street in downtown Bar Harbor (The Village Green), drive south on Main Street (Route 3) for 1 mile. The small parking lot for Compass Harbor Trail will be on your left, just before Old Farm Road. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 27

HEALTH & FITNESS

HIKE ME

SCHOODIC HEAD

IN WINTER HARBOR MODERATE Schoodic Head rises 440 feet above sea level on the Schoodic Peninsula, which contains the only portion of Acadia National Park on the mainland. From overlooks at its top, hikers are rewarded with open views of the ocean and nearby Mount Desert Island.

Five connecting hiking trails explore Schoodic Head: the 0.5-mile East Trail, 0.7-mile Alder Trail, 0.7-mile Schoodic Head Trail, 1.1-mile Anvil Trail and 3.2-mile Buck Cove Mountain Trail. This network offers multiple options for loop hikes and out-andback hikes.

All visitors to Acadia National Park are required to pay an entrance fee upon entry May through October.

Park passes are available online and at the Schoodic Peninsula visitor center. Dogs are permitted on this trail if on a leash no longer than 6 feet long. For more information, call 207-288-3338 or visit nps.gov/acad.

DIRECTIONS: From where Main Street meets Route 186 in Winter Harbor, drive east on Route 186 (also labeled Main Street or Birch Street on maps), toward Prospect Harbor.

Drive about 0.5 mile and turn right at the Acadia National Park sign onto Schoodic Loop Road. Drive about 0.9 miles and the large parking lot for the visitor center will be on your left. Buck Cove Mountain Trail — by far the longest route to Schoodic Head — starts near the visitor center.

If planning to hike the other, shorter trails, continue on Schoodic Loop Trail, About 4.5 miles from Route 186, you’ll meet an intersection that directs you left to Winter Harbor or right to Schoodic Education and Research Center; veer left. Continue on the one-way road for 0.5 mile, then turn right into the Blueberry Hill parking area.

Two trailheads (Alder Trail and Anvil Trail) are across the road from this parking area. The trailhead for East Trail is a short distance farther down the road, on the left.

AISLINN SARNACKI is a staff writer for Bangor Metro and the editor of Act Out, a section of the Bangor Daily News.

An expert on the Maine outdoors, she is author of the guidebooks “Dog-Friendly Hikes in Maine,” “Maine Hikes Off the Beaten Path” and “Family Friendly Hikes in Maine.” Follow her adventures at bangordailynews.com/act-out.

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HOW-TO

CRAFTING WITH KIDS

HOT COCOA

BOMBS COZY UP WITH A TASTY PROJECT FOR ALL AGES

STORY & PHOTOS BY AMY ALLEN

WHEN IT’S TIME TO COME IN from playing in the snow, hot chocolate is the perfect treat for warming up and getting cozy. Hot cocoa bombs are all the rage this winter and for good reason — who doesn’t love a mug of hot chocolate? So we decided to find a simple and delicious way to make them at home.

Cooking and creating in the kitchen has been one thing both of my kids have really taken an interest in while we’ve been stuck at home. My daughter found lots of inspiration for hot cocoa bombs on Pinterest. While you can get fancy and temper your chocolate like a pro, we found the simpliest way to create the shells was using melted chocolate chips. They hold up well in the mold, melt quickly in the warm milk and taste delicious.

A silicon mold makes the job of removing the chocolate very easy. You can use whatever you have on hand, just keep in mind that the larger the shell, the bigger (and sweeter) the bomb — so you might have to adjust the amount of milk you use to make your drink. Drop your finished hot cocoa bomb in a mug of warm milk and stir for a tasty cold-weather treat.

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WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • Silicone mold • Chocolate chips • Hot chocolate mix • Mini-marshmallows • Sprinkles, peppermints, cinnamon candies or any other extras for decorating and added fun

DIRECTIONS & TIPS 1. Create a double boiler by setting a metal bowl on top of a small pan of simmering water. Melt chocolate chips in the bowl; remove from heat as soon as they are melted. You can adjust how much chocolate you melt depending on how many hot cocoa bombs you want to make.

2. You can use whatever size and shape silicon mold you have available, as long you'll be able to connect 2 pieces together to create a shell. We used a 1.5-inch square mold, which is a perfect amount for a regular mug of cocoa.

3. Brush the sides of your mold with chocolate. Chill for 15-20 minutes until hard. Then brush a second coat to help prevent breakage when it's time to pop them out of the mold. Chill again.

4. Remove your chocolate molds. Fill half of the molds with hot cocoa mix (we used about a third of a regular powdered packet in each mold), marshmallows and any other treat you choose.

5. Heat the edge of an empty chocolate mold on a warm pan and press on top of a filled half to create a bomb.

Decorate with sprinkles, more melted chocolate, etc.

6. Drop the bomb in a mug of hot milk and stir!

CRAFTING

with KIDS

HOME & FAMILY

TIPS FOR “The

Talk”

A PARENTS GUIDE TO TALKING WITH KIDS ABOUT SEX

BY STEPHANIE BOUCHARD

FORGET A ONE-AND-DONE “THE TALK.” Ideally, talking to your kids about sex is not a one-time event, but rather an ongoing conversation that starts when they are young (toddler-age young not 16-young), Caron said. When, for example, your 6-year-old asks you where babies come from, don’t freak out thinking you’ll have to explain about sexual intercourse and all the details of that, said Caron. “Kids aren’t thinking about sex the way adults are.”

Instead, be matter of fact and keep it simple. You can say, for instance, something along the lines of “there’s a special part of the mother called the uterus and when the baby’s ready to come out, it’s going to come out an opening called the vagina.” That’s all there is to it, Caron said.

For pre-teens and teens, be on the look-out for opportunities — Valentine’s Day, or a song lyric you hear on the radio, or a scene you see on TV or in a movie — to start a conversation.

WATCH YOUR TONE: Talking about sex may be uncomfortable for you, but you can learn to make it less so, said Caron. “Parents need to realize you can’t avoid this,” she said. “Your kids aren’t going to not learn about this. You make [a] decision: Do I want to be part of this or not? Do I want to send a message that I’m not someone they can turn to?” Monitor what you say and how you say it and your reactions to sex- or body-related issues.

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SHOW THEM YOU ARE APPROACHABLE. You want to establish yourself as a go-to resource for your kids, said Preston. If you’re not sure what to say, there are numerous books and online resources available.

Maine Family Planning has a handout called The Interview that puts the young person in the role of interviewer asking parents or trusted adults a series of questions.

Another great activity for families to do, Preston said, is to have a bowl on the dining table into which all members of the family can put questions or topics on a slip of paper. Each time the family sits down to eat, someone pulls a slip out and the family talks about what’s on the paper.

Formats like these also take the pressure off parents to “know everything,” Preston said. Instead, parents can honestly say “I don’t know” and then, with their children, set out to get answers, which is a terrific way to teach young people how to find trustworthy information about sex and sexual health — especially on the internet.

USE ANATOMICALLY CORRECT WORDS. “Don’t fear the words,” said Preston. When you teach your kids to name their body parts, be as matter of fact about naming the penis and vagina as you are about naming the nose and ears. You’ll help to avoid issues around body shaming and you’ll be arming your kids for life to talk about their bodies not only with intimate partners, but with health providers, too.

WHERE TO FIND ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: WWW.COMMONSENSEMEDIA.ORG AMAZE.ORG/JR AND AMAZE.ORG MAINEFAMILYPLANNING.ORG/FOR-EDUCATORS/ SEX-EDUCATION-RESOURCES HEALTH.GOV/MYHEALTHFINDER/TOPICS/ EVERYDAY-HEALTHY-LIVING/SEXUAL-HEALTH/ TALK-YOUR-KIDS-ABOUT-SEX

PHOTO: ©LSTOCKSTUDIO/ADOBE STOCK

FOR MANY PEOPLE, Valentine’s Day conjures up thoughts of love, romance and intimacy. But, sex education? Not so much. However, the holiday is one of those golden opportunities parents should seize to talk to their kids about sex and matters relating to sex.

Gulp. Most parents don’t relish the idea, so we asked a couple of local sex educators — Sandra Caron, PhD, a family relations and human sexuality professor at the University of Maine in Orono, and Vicki Preston, one of the coordinators for Maine Family Planning’s Teen Pregnancy Prevention Education Program — to share a few tips.

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PHOTO: ©WAYHOME STUDIO/ ADOBE STOCK

PERSONAL FINANCE

34 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

Resolve to LOWER YOUR

DEBT

HOW WE TAMED OUR DEBT

BY KAYLIE REESE

DEBT ISN’T SOMETHING we often talk about in casual conversation, but it’s something millions of Americans struggle with at different points of their life, whether it’s student loans or a home mortgage or from credit cards.

According to data recently compiled by Experian, American consumers carry more than $90,000 in debt on average.

If you’re someone like me, who likes to set goals at the start of each year, why not consider finding a way to manage your debt?

My partner and I are planning to enter the market to buy a house in the near future, but with our high student loan debt and car payments, in addition to other monthly expenses, we decided to get in better financial shape before doing so.

So in an effort to learn sustainable ways to tame our debt, I reached out to financial experts who live and work in Greater Bangor. Here’s what they shared.

DON’T HIDE FROM DEBT Even if we don’t talk about it very often, debt is extremely common.

Approximately 80 percent of American households have debt, according to a study from Pew Research Center.

Ignoring debt won’t make it go away, so it’s important to understand first what you’re working with.

For some, your first step could look like reaching out to talk to someone about your debt, whether that’s a trusted friend or family member or a financial professional.

Matthew Skaves, chief investment officer at Deighan Wealth Advisors, said one way to think of debt is as a tool.

“When it comes to debt it’s just a matter of using it in a way that’s appropriate, because as a tool it can actually help your financial health,” Skaves said when talking about credit scores.

FIND OUT WHAT YOU’RE WORKING WITH Start by requesting a credit report. According to the Federal Trade Commission, you are entitled to one free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each of the three credit reporting agencies: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. On the report, you can find information on your previous and current credit history. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 35

ESTABLISH A BUDGET Setting up a budget is crucial, and it costs nothing.

First, identify cash inflows versus outflows, meaning what you earn versus what you spend. When doing so, I like to underestimate my income and overestimate things like bills, because it builds a small cushion.

Second, sort monthly expenses by things you need, like mortgage or utility payments, versus things you want, such as monthly video streaming services.

Third, identify what type of bills you are paying. I like to sort them in three categories: one-time bills, which could include tolls from a recent trip to Boston; recurring bills, such as a cellphone or rent payment; and loans, which feasibly have terms that will end.

36 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

After bills have been paid, it’s important to have a plan with the amount of money remaining in a monthly budget cycle.

If you’re looking to pay down debt faster, Skaves said it’s important to look closely at “needs” versus “wants” and to cut the wants back as much as possible so you can free up more cash to go toward debt repayments.

(Please keep in mind that while this system works well for my family, it may not look the same for you.)

CREATE A DEBT SCHEDULE Think of a debt schedule like a management system for loans.

Start by creating a debt schedule that includes all your loans and balances owed, identify interest rates, and total amounts, John Tilton, financial planner at Financial

Planning Associates, said. Next, identify your repayment strategy.

“From a numbers perspective, it makes the most sense to pay down higher interest debt first, but many find a psychological or emotional advantage to paying down small balance loans first and reducing the number of outstanding loans,” Tilton said.

Once a loan is paid off, Tilton also recommended using the money you would have paid to that loan toward the payment of another loan.

Set up a plan that works for your household.

TACKLE HIGH-INTEREST DEBT FIRST Both Tilton and Skaves identified loans with high interest rates and variable interest rates as the worst types of debt.

PHOTO: ©GPOINTSTUDIO/ ADOBE STOCK

PERSONAL FINANCE

When designing a strategy for repayment, Tilton said, these should be priority.

FINANCIAL HEALTH IS POSSIBLE Be realistic with yourself and set attainable goals for now and for your future.

For me, this means acknowledging that debt is something I’m going to have to include in my budget for years ahead. Because of that, my goal is to come to terms with that fact.

For others, the goal could be to become debt free, or to start or grow an investment portfolio.

Whatever your financial goal is, with careful planning and routine execution of your budget, be sure that the result gives you peace of mind. If it still feels like a puzzle, consider talking with a financial planning professional, who can help you get your plan established. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 37

FEATURE

Embrace a Happy

PHILOSOPHY

Z

38 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

COZY LIVING PHILOSOPHIES TO MAKE YOUR WINTER EVEN WARMER

BY EMILY MORRISON

THIS IS A HARD TIME of year to be a Mainer. For those of us fortunate enough to experience the beauty of Maine summers, we must also endure the brutality of winters.

Because of our occasionally unfriendly climé, in recent years the Danish concept of hygge, or creating a warm atmosphere, has received a lot of hype in our corner of the world.

But it’s not the only cozy living philosophy folks around here could benefit from.

If you’re interested in making your winter a little warmer, take a look at these lesser known but equally essential ways to flourish while staying home this cold season.

PHOTOS: ©ANAUMENKO, ©FRANCESCORIDOLFI.COM, ©DREAM@DO/ADOBE STOCK

EMBRACE IKIGAI Ikigai, pronounced “ik-kee-gai,” is a Japanese concept that roughly translates to “one’s reason for living.” It’s the purpose behind your waking, the motivation behind your desire for success, the balance you’re searching for in life. Studies have shown that those who have a clear idea of their ikigai generally live longer, happier lives.

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PHOTOS: ©MARINA ANDREJCHENKO, ©ARTEM, ©ALENA OZEROVA/ADOBE STOCK

FEATURE

40 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

REALTORS So how can you find your ikigai? By doing some soul-searching and answering the following questions: What do I absolutely love? What are my strengths?

How can I make money doing it? What does the world need more of?

The trick to finding one’s ikigai comes down to finding what all of your responses have in common. For instance, if you love cooking, chances are you’re probably pretty good in the kitchen. And if you can make money and feed people while you’re at it, perhaps you should consider a career in the culinary arts.

Finding common ground between these four cornerstones — passion, mission, profession and vocation — will help you find your ikigai. It’s also important to note that one’s ikigai may change over time. Just as people evolve over the course of their lives, so does their ikigai. Also worth mentioning, your ikigai can only be fulfilled if others can benefit from it — not just yourself.

FIND LAGOM Lagom, pronounced “la-gum,” means “to live simply.” This concept originally hails from Sweden. In fact, Sweden is known as one of the happiest countries in the world, possibly because its inhabitants practice lagom, or balance. For those familiar with the children’s story “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” this idea is also known as the Goldilocks Principle — having not too much, not too little, but just enough.

In our physical and virtual world today, we are surrounded by material possessions, late night infomercials, Snapchat, Netflix, miracle beauty products and myriad more distractions. Because of these competing focuses for our attention, our perspective can become clouded. Finding lagom, means returning to a peaceful, easy lifestyle that helps us feel calm. There is a time for work and a time for play and those who practice lagom are able to balance both of these competing impulses in their lives.

Practical ways you can find lagom in your life go back to living simply. Take breaks when you need them. Spend as much time listening as you do talking. Perform unexpected acts of kindness. When life feels like it’s flying by at 90 mph, slow the pace.

Spend time outside.

Really, get out and enjoy nature. The Swedish take their outdoor time very seriously.

Go through your possessions and donate what you don’t need. Don’t

let your things own you, or become preoccupied by constantly acquiring more of them. Lastly, give what you don’t need back to the community.

SHARE GEZELLIG Gezellig, pronounced “heh-sell-ick,” is a term the lovely people of Amsterdam use to refer to the “sociable, cozy culture of their city.” There isn’t a onefor-one direct translation of gezellig into English because it’s a concept that encompasses many feelings: comfort, love, togetherness, coziness, hominess, snuggliness and joy. Overall, sharing gezellig means sharing a moment of comfort and happiness with others.

The Dutch, like most of us, really enjoy all forms of gezellig. Who doesn’t appreciate feeling comfy-cozy after sharing a hot meal, a warm drink or a fun social event with others? In its truest sense, gezellig is meant to be a communal experience. How has Amsterdam become synonymous with this feeling? Because this city abounds with cheerful boutiques, cozy restaurants, sumptuous greenhouses, sunny canals, historic bridges and gorgeous museums.

But you don’t have to travel thousands of miles to experience this feeling.

You can feel gezellig while sitting in your own living room enjoying the festive New Year’s Eve decor, Valentine’s Day candles or even your Super Bowl snack platter. Share a strong cup of coffee, cider or cocoa with your family and watch your all-time favorite movie classics together. String up those colorful lights, the bigger the better, place some items of sentimental value throughout your home and enjoy the splendor of your own personal Amsterdam.

Your listing could be on this page.

Sell it faster.

Advertise in Bangor Metro’s Home section.

Call 990-8000.

ENJOY FRILUFTSLIV Friluftsliv, pronounced “free-loofts-live,” literally translates to “free air life.” Although this term was first introduced to the world through famous Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen in 1859, the notion of being one with nature has been part of Norwegian culture for centuries.

No matter one’s age or the weather, exploring the great outdoors is a way of life in Norway, which according to the 2020 World Happiness Report ranks as one of the top five happiest countries in the world (No. 5). In fact, many Norwegian high schools offer friluftsliv classes where www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 41

FEATURE

At the end of the day, finding ways to make the winter of our discontent more pleasant comes down to opening ourselves up to the present moment, to the very real time and place we’re living in. As a country, we have just survived one of the most brutal years in history. Our economy is hurting.

Our citizens are politically divided. Our healthcare system is teetering. Our mission for equality is crucial. And our death toll keeps rising.

Taking opportunities to stay socially, emotionally, mentally and physically healthy is priority number one for everyone right now.

Embracing ikigai, our reason for living, helps us center our lives around our greater purpose. Finding lagom, our balance, encourages us to remember what’s truly important in life and what’s not. Sharing gezellig, a moment of comfort with others, reminds us of the happiness we feel when we’re together.

And enjoying friluftsliv, the outdoors, allows us to reconnect with ourselves and our world simultaneously.

Whether we commit to following all of these practices at once, or try them out one at a time, the beauty of adopting a new living philosophy is in our intention to continue finding beauty in life and in each other.

42 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

PHOTOS: ©AYAIMAGES, ©CHRISTIAN HORZ/ADOBE STOCK

students are routinely encouraged to do more than study nature — they’re allowed to go out and have adventures in it. Also, many Norwegian companies encourage their employees to participate in a friluftsliv program where they spend a minimum of 90 minutes outside a week to decrease stress and improve mental health.

While some Americans definitely appreciate the outdoors, the U.S. is currently ranked No. 18 on the World Happiness Report. Could our inactive lifestyle and disconnect from nature have something to do with our malaise?

Perhaps scheduling time for a walk, hike, snowshoe trek, ice fishing expedition, ski day, sleigh ride or other winter fun into our school or work day could help us reprioritize friluftsliv in our lives. If you’re serious about practicing friluftsliv, you won’t let little things like negative windchill, heavy snowfall and black ice stop you. You can layer your long johns, bring a thermos and wear an extra set of wool socks to commune with Mother Nature all winter long.

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FEATURE

FEATHER

Your

NEST 44 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

A GUIDE TO FINDING YOUR HOME DESIGN AESTHETIC

BY KATIE BINGHAM-SMITH WHEN IT COMES to decorating, many people get frustrated and feel they don’t know where to start. As someone who loves to rearrange my home regularly, and has been hired to decorate other people’s homes and offices, I have a few tips to offer those who say “I’m just not a decorator and I don’t know what to do.”

JUST GET STARTED If you are feeling stuck, all you have to do is get started. We all know what we like (even if we think we don’t) and what we don’t like. Take a trip around your favorite home goods store and you will immediately be drawn to certain pieces.

PHOTO: ©OLEKSANDR MOROZ/ADOBE STOCK

FIND INSPIRATION, IT’S ALL AROUND YOU Flipping through a magazine is also a great way to get a feel for rooms and aesthetics that spark something in you. Perhaps a certain color makes you feel happy or nostalgic. Maybe you see a sofa that you must have. These are all great starting points that can be the foundation for your decorating style.

TAKE YOUR TIME This isn’t a race. Decorating your home so you feel comfortable and love your space takes time, sometimes years. That’s okay. It’s also okay to change your mind. Trust your intuition and don’t try to force something that doesn’t work. Trust me, it will drive you crazy if you purchase a set of chairs just because they were on sale and you didn’t really love them.

I can’t count the times I’ve waited for a bit and found something I loved that was affordable.

Also, remember it’s okay to change your mind.

Furniture and accessories can be moved. Rugs can be changed out.

The best thing to do is let your home speak to you — believe me it will.

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FEATURE MIX STYLES You may love the sleek modern look and pick out a grey sofa with metal legs, but also can’t stop thinking about frilly pink pillows, and that beat up buffet you saw at a flea market.

Just as brown and black clothing and gold and silver jewelry can be worn together, mixing styles is the perfect way to find your style. The juxtaposition of hard lines and soft lines or light and dark can help balance your home and keep you from feeling bored or like you have to stick to a theme.

This is the reason why so many of us like sweet and salty snacks. The variety is what keeps us alive.

DON’T FOLLOW TRENDS Unless you love them of course. Remember over a decade ago when the whole ‘Shabby Chic’ was in and all the magazines were showcasing paint-chipped furniture and lots of ruffles? I tried that in my simple, red colonial home and it just didn’t work. In other words, I’d love something in a shop, but get it into my house and feel like it didn’t belong.

You know how you can see a pair of pants you love on other people, but know you don’t love them on yourself? It’s the same concept and the more you ‘practice’ bringing things into your home, or changing things around, the better you get at discovering what you’ll truly love. It saves a lot of energy, that’s for sure.

TALK TO YOUR FRIENDS WHO HAVE DECORATING STYLE YOU LOVE Yes, your home is yours and you are the one living there. However, I suggest talking to friends or family members who have tastes you admire for two reasons: Two heads are better than one and they may think of an idea you haven’t.

However, this also helps us decide what we really like. Think about how you use other people’s advice with other things in your life; you listen and follow it if you like it. And if you don’t, you do your own thing and it pushes you to make the decision for yourself, which is always the right one.

PAINTING WITH NEUTRAL COLORS ALLOWS MORE ROOM FOR FINDING YOUR STYLE When your canvas is clean and neutral, it allows you to buy that bright red sofa if you want it. However, if the room was painted a dark green, you might feel like you had to get something that flowed better.

Neutral colors have a variety of shades: tan, white, gray, and ivory make your colorful accessories, art work, and furniture pop.

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Another benefit is you will be able to bring any piece into any room in your house if it’s all neutral. It’s a lot easier to change out a purple pillow for a green one than it is to paint a room from purple to green if you are tired of it.

DECORATE WITH THINGS YOU LOVE Maybe you frequent the ocean. Collecting shells, drift wood and adding in colorful accessories which remind you of the water and sea glass can be incredibly uplifting.

Perhaps you are a city-lover who feels the most at home when surrounded by industrial buildings and architecture. Abstract paintings and a minimalist look with lots of metal accessories like vases, or mirrored tables can bring that into your home.

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THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX Plumbing pipe can be morphed into really cool looking curtain rods. You don’t have to have traditional railings for the stairs in your home. Now, you can use things like plexiglass, industrial rope or wire to add an unexpected element.

Perhaps you live in a wooded area or have plenty of privacy and don’t want to spend the time and money hanging curtains — go without and let all that natural light shine in and speak for itself.

Crates can be used as tables and dressers aren’t solely made for the bedroom. They can look wonderful in a dining room to hold linens, cookbooks or spices. You can also dress them up by adding a marble or butcher block top.

Add a mirror to any room. Hang one in the entryway, the kitchen or dining room.

Most people have them in the bathrooms and bedrooms, but bringing them into other places of the house can instantly make them feel larger.

LIGHT IS IMPORTANT Living in Maine can bring some dark days.

While it’s cozy, we all feel our moods lift where there is enough light. Some things to consider for letting in natural light include painting with light colors. Don’t block your windows with large plants or pieces of furniture. Instead, put them to the side and have your windows clear. Mirrors are also a great way to cast more light.

Finding your home style should feel rewarding and satisfying. However, it’s a journey. We are always growing and evolving in all other aspects of our life and our homes are no different. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 49

FEATURE

Green THUMB THE HOUSEPLANTS THAT ARE BEST FOR MAINE

PHOTO: ©FOLLOWTHEFLOW/ ADOBE STOCK

BY SAM SCHIPANI

50 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

HOUSEPLANTS AREN’T JUST A TREND. They bring life, brightness and even purifying qualities to your home. But in Maine, keeping houseplants comes with some unique challenges, especially during the winter when the light is low, the air is dry and the days are cold. So what’s an aspiring houseplant owner to do?

Certain houseplants are going to be better for Maine’s specific conditions than others, which will be especially good if you’re just getting started with houseplants.

“When getting a houseplant there can be various characteristics to choose from, especially here in Maine,” said Ellie Longfellow of Longfellow’s Greenhouses in Manchester. “Choosing a plant based on its light requirements is very important.

Additionally, [for] houseplants that thrive in humidity, a plant owner would want to make sure they are able to provide the plant with those conditions through misting, humidifiers or various methods that can increase humidity in the home (or space) which can be hard to do in our dry Maine winters.”

Some plants that have a reputation for being easy to take care of are, in fact, not that easy to grow in Maine.

“Succulents and cacti can be tricky to grow in Maine, due to how cloudy and cold our winters can be,” Longfellow said. “With less sun, it can make the sun thriving plants a little unhappy. Ferns can also be tricky in the wintertime, as their leaves can dry out due to a lack of humidity and moisture.”

Regardless of what you choose, you’re going to need to know a few things about care if you want houseplants to survive in your house at all.

Make sure your plants have proper lighting (near a south-facing window, though not so close as to be impacted by drafts, is ideal), well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes to prevent roots from

rotting is necessary no matter what plants you choose, Longfellow said. In the same vein, she said to pay attention to the watering requirements of your plant to make sure you are not leaving the soil soggy and soaked.

Once you have met these conditions, though, here are the houseplants that are best for Maine.

SNAKE PLANTS Snake plants, all classified under the scientific genus Sansevieria, are some of the most tolerant houseplants available. These plants can be neglected for weeks at a time; yet, with their strappy leaves and architectural shape, they still look fresh. Additionally, they can survive low light levels and drought, plus have few insect problems.

“In my opinion some of the best houseplants that I could recommend would be the snake plant,” Longfellow said. “Needing very little water and TLC, this plant can be successful for most everybody.”

Melissa Higgins, wholesale manager at Sprague’s Nursery in Bangor, said that snake plants are also “one of the very best oxygenators and need the least amount of care.” In fact, NASA research has even shown that snake plants are able to help remove toxins from the air inside your home.

There are a variety of different snake plants, from the pudgy Sansevieria ballyi, or dwarf snake plant, to the tall Sansevieria trifasciata, or striped snake plant, which can grow up to four feet tall. No matter what look you prefer for your houseplants, there will be a snake plant for you. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 51

ZZ PLANT Like snake plants, Zamioculcas zamiifolia, or ZZ plants, will tolerate neglect. They require little light and little watering. Their wide, waxy, dark green leaves also reflect sunlight and brighten rooms.

However, pet owners and parents of curious children beware: all parts of the plant are poisonous. Though rumors that handling the plant can cause cancer have since proven untrue, you should always wash your hands after handling ZZ plants to avoid skin irritation.

PILEA PLANTS The many varieties of house plants in the genus Pilea are known for their bright

green, coin-shaped leaves. The cheeky, fastgrowing plants thrive in dry conditions, adapt well to low light areas and are great for beginner plant owners.

One popular type of houseplant is the Pilea peperomioides, which has a number of fun names, including Chinese money plant, UFO plant, pancake plant, missionary plant and mirror grass.

Higgins said that aside from its tolerant nature, Pilea plants are fun for houseplants owners because they are easy to propagate and share.

“Pilea [are] known as the friendship plant because of its quickly multiplying stems that can be separated and given to friends,” Higgins said.

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FEATURE

PEPEROMIA PLANTS Houseplants in the genus Peperomia are low-maintenance, slow-growing houseplants that are native to South American rainforests, where they grow in the cool, shady understory.

The compact plants are often mistaken for succulents, but are easier to care for in the conditions in Maine.

The genus boasts over a thousand species, but only a dozen have made their way to the houseplant market. Still, the plants are diverse in appearance, with leaves ranging in shape from hearts to lancets, and colors from solid green, marbled or even gray and red.

“[It] comes in so many varieties,” Higgins said. “My favorite [is] ‘watermelon’ as [it has] very cute flowers.”

MONSTERA PLANTS Houseplants in the genus Monstera are known more commonly as Swiss cheese plants.

They are famous for their naturally perforated leaves that gave rise to its nickname. You may recognize it from Instagram, as this houseplant is very popular. In fact, Higgins said it is currently the #1 houseplant sold in the United States.

Two different species of Monstera are cultivated as houseplants: Monstera deliciosa, which have more of a fan-like appearance, and Monstera adansonii, which has longer, tapered leaves with completely enclosed holes. In the wild, these plants can grow dozens of feet tall and several feet wide, but indoors, they usually range between six and ten feet in height.

In its native environment, the Swiss cheese plant grows beneath the canopy of large trees. So, it prefers indirect sunlight, or sunlight filtered by a sheer curtain. They are also capable of producing edible fruit, which looks something like an inverted, green corn cob, but don’t get your hopes up as they rarely do so indoors. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 53

FEATURE

POTHOS Epipremnum aureum is a tropical vine that has crisp, shiny leaves with gold, white or yellow markings. Despite its common name “pothos,” these houseplants are not in the genus Pothos. Pothos need higher light levels in order to develop good leaf markings and variegation, but are still able to thrive in low-light conditions. In fact, this plant is often called the devil’s vine or devil’s ivy because it is almost impossible to kill and it stays green even when kept in the dark.

“Pothos make nice trailing plants if someone is looking for a plant to trail, especially for hanging baskets,” Longfellow said.

“Moderate light will keep them happy, and pothos especially can take lower light as well.

PHILODENDRON PLANTS Houseplants in the genus Philodendron are often mistaken for pothos because they have a similar look and have a lot of the same growth requirements and habits. However, there is a difference in the texture and shape of the leaves, philodendron leaves tend to be less waxy and more heart-shaped than their pothos counterparts. In fact, the most common type of philodendron grown as a houseplant is the heartleaf philodendron, or Philodendron hederaceum.

Still, like pothos, philodendrons are popular because they tolerate low light and variable temperatures.

“Philodendrons are fun vining plants that can be grown just about anywhere,” Higgins said.

HOYA Houseplants in the genus Hoya are known for their curtaining vines with thick, waxy leaves (hence their nickname, wax plants) and clusters of star-shaped flowers. Hoya is often sold in hanging baskets, but the stems will tumble from tall containers as well.

Despite its sometimes delicate drapery and cute, punchy flowers, Hoya are among the most tolerant of all houseplants. Longfellow said that Hoya plants are easy to care for as long as they are in a bright spot with indirect light.

Even though these are the best houseplants for Maine, Longfellow said that the most important thing is to choose a plant that you like. If one is really calling to you at the plant store, just do a little research about how to help it thrive.

“Every plant is different, and it is important to remember that when it comes to their care,” Longfellow said. “It is never a bad idea to do some research on a new plant before you purchase, if you are unfamiliar with its variety, or ask for help at your garden center.”

54 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2021

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FEATURE

Take Your Romance

OUTSIDE

IDEAS FOR OUTDOOR SOCIALLYDISTANT WINTER DATES

BY SAM SCHIPANI

TAKE A HIKE Hiking is a great way to get your blood pumping while enjoying all the romantic, scenic views that Maine has to offer.

If you are new to winter hiking, you might want to invest in some warm boots or snowshoes. Another worthwhile tool for Maine’s dark winter days: headlamps.

“I had a couple throw on a couple of headlamps and walk in a state park the other night,” Noreen Rochester, founder of Cara Matchmaking in Portland, said in November. “Luckily, we’re Mainers and we’re pretty hardy and we can get out and do those things.”

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WHETHER YOU HAVE been married for decades, together for years or are just starting a new relationship, planning fun and adventurous dates is important to keeping the magic alive in a relationship.

Heading outdoors is a great way to break up the winter cabin fever, if you’re prepared. Remember to bundle up — from your head to your toes — and don’t forget a mask.

“Lean into it,” said Jill Hinckley, founder of Hinckley Introductions matchmaking agency with an office in Portland. “It does require more planning than usual.”

These outdoor date ideas will make memorable adventures with your partner.

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FEATURE

SPICE UP YOUR DAILY WALK Even if you aren’t a sporty couple, you can still enjoy the winter scenery without trekking out to the woods. After you’ve put on your warmest layers and grabbed a mask, fill a Thermos with hot chocolate (if you spike it, we won’t tell) and head out for a winter jaunt.

Even if you are just going for a walk around the block, spice it up by planning a photo scavenger hunt. Create a list of items to find, or you can use categories, like snapping a picture of something in every color of the rainbow, or one thing that begins with each letter of the alphabet.

“When you find the items, take pictures of the two of you with that item,” Blake said.

Another way to add a little excitement to your daily walks? Head to the beach. Maybe it’s not the time for sunbathing and splashing around in the waves, but Maine’s beaches have a unique beauty that is perhaps enhanced by cool winter days. You can even make a trip to a lighthouse that you have always meant to go to but have never found the time for before.

“Cape Elizabeth at the lighthouse is a nice sort of tourist venue,” said Ron Cater, owner of the Matchmaker of Maine personalized matchmaking service in Portland. “[Check out] places that would be an almost ‘touristy’ point of interest, a fun thing if you weren’t from Maine you would go to.”

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DINE AL FRESCO Maybe you can’t dine in at your favorite eateries, but lots of restaurants are still doing curbside pick-up. You can have a takeout picnic with your favorite dishes, or even bring some food of your own.

“Picnics are the biggest hit since March,” Rochester said. “[Couples] are taking a couple of blankets and going to a beach or a park or out in the woods as long as it’s someplace safe. Each person brings a bunch of stuff and they’re having a wonderful time.”

To make it a little more comfortable during the winter, Rochester said to bundle up, bring blankets, warm drinks and maybe a portable space heater.

If you are lucky enough to have a fire pit in your backyard, have a s’mores night together.

If you don’t have a yard that is big enough for a fire pit, you can also purchase space heaters for your patio and perhaps dine al fresco or have a winter BBQ. You can grill up your summer favorites, or try something adventurous and new.

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TRY A NEW WINTER SPORT Maine has seemingly endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, even in the winter, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, fat-tire biking and dogsledding.

No matter what your skill level or interests, you can find something for you. If you and your partner have never tried one of these sports and have always wanted to do so, now might be the time.

“If you’ve never gone snowshoeing before, you can do it at some of these open areas and parks,” Hinckley said.“It’s kind of fun to try snowshoeing for the first time [as well as] cross country skiing.”

It may be worth investing in some basic winter sports equipment.

Rochester said that ice skates are a great one because if rinks are open you can go there with masks, but you can also ice skate on ponds once they freeze over. In Bangor, public outdoor ice skating rinks are usually set up in Broadway Park, Chapin Park, Fairmount Park, Stillwater Park and Bangor Gardens Park.

If ice and snow sports don’t interest you, try something else that will get you moving.

“Paddle tennis is kind of cool,” Hinckley said. “There’s a few paddle tennis courts around Maine [like the York Paddle Tennis Club and the Arundel Paddle Club]. When it snows they shovel off the court, so you can play all through the winter.”

Or, if you’ve attempted all the tried-and-true winter sports and are seeking something really bold, Rochester said that you could even try winter surfing, which she said some surf shops in Kennebunk are offering.

“I have clients that are going to do that,” Rochester said. “If you have the right gear on you’re ok. That’s just one more thing that people are willing to do.”

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FEATURE

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WOODS & WATERS

Decorating your Lawn

FOR THE BIRDS

SOME FADS BELONG in the past. Remember pet rocks?

Many home decorations have been hauled off to the dustbins of history. It doesn’t seem that long ago that lawn ornaments consisted of mirror balls and fat fannies — those plywood cutouts of plump gardeners bending over.

BY BOB DUCHESNE Amazingly, garden gnomes have persisted. Pink flamingos are still a thing.

Today’s yard art is more often made of ceramic and concrete, less often of wood and plastic. Nature themes have grown popular, with the addition of ceramic frogs and concrete turtles. Even the gnomes are now fashioned to fit more harmoniously into the garden, perhaps standing in the doorways of tiny elven huts.

Bird houses, baths and feeders have grown more popular. Some are ornate, decorating the yard while attracting wildlife. The trick, of course, is to pay attention to both form and function.

Placement is important. It’s tempting to put a feeder into the AN ASSORTMENT OF flower garden or among the bushes. But too much foliage beneath the feeder can conceal predators, especially cats. It also makes it FINCHES AND OTHER SEEDdifficult for ground-feeding birds to forage. Some birds are more comfortable under the feeder than on it, and they’ll pick through EATERS ARE CURRENTLY the hulls to find intact seeds, cleaning up some of the discards.

PLUNDERING MAINE On the other hand, many birds need nearby cover.

Chickadees, nuthatches and titmice are cautious when FEEDERS, ADDING A LITTLE approaching a feeder. They like to perch in a shrub or tree, looking around for danger before dashing in to grab a seed and COLOR AND NATURE TO then flitting back to safety. Blue jays and cardinals also appreciate cover nearby. Feeders placed in the middle of the yard, distant from HUMAN YARDSCAPES. safety, might not attract typical feeder birds. In urban areas, they’re

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IT’S A GREAT TIME TO FEED THE BIRDS

more likely to attract less desirable birds, like pigeons and starlings.

Other birds are less cautious. Their strategy is to arrive in flocks, giving them more eyes to watch for trouble and an earlier warning of danger. American goldfinches, pine siskins and common redpolls don’t mind exposed feeders, and they’ll sit there for a while, chowing down on multiple seeds. These small finches even squabble with each other about taking turns. Likewise, purple finches and house finches feel comfortable lingering on an exposed feeder.

Sometimes, the best placement is near a window, where the birds may be watched more easily. There is always a risk that birds will fly into the glass, suffering injury and death. But when a feeder is close to the window, the birds typically don’t build up enough speed to hurt themselves badly.

Often, your choice of feeder styles depends on the desired birds and undesired pests. Some of the most ornate feeders are large gazebos on poles. Cardinals especially

like these big platform feeders. They are not fond of hanging feeders that swing in the breeze. Sparrows are also not fond of hanging feeders. They are more likely to search for fallen seeds on the ground, but they will feed on a platform.

Unfortunately, squirrels also like the big platform feeders. They can make one of those grand gazebos impractical in a hurry. There are plenty of squirrelbattling feeders on the market, and most are functional, but they would never be mistaken for art. Some of these feeders have cages around them, with mesh big enough to let small birds through, but not squirrels. As landscape decoration goes, they are generally rather boring to look at.

But a few are artistically crafted by metalworkers, often made with copper, weaving intricate patterns into the framework of the cage. They qualify as pro-bird, antisquirrel, lawn ornaments.

Another popular place to put feeders is on the back deck. This works well, unless it creates a mess. Scattered seed and discarded shells are inevitable, but some of the mess is avoidable. It’s best to stock seed that local birds like. In Maine, that’s black oil sunflower seeds.

Avoid cheap mixes that contain a lot of filler. Some of the hard grains might suit birds elsewhere, but around here, they’re likely to be shoved over the side. If the sunflower seed shells are unattractive, shelled seed mixes are available. These are more expensive, but tidier.

It’s a great winter to feed birds.

Many birds come down from Canada in years when the natural food crop is poor up there. This is one of those years.

An assortment of finches and other seedeaters are currently plundering Maine feeders, adding a little color and nature to human yardscapes.

BOB DUCHESNE is a local radio personality, Maine guide, and columnist. He lives on Pushaw Lake with his wife, Sandi.

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Z

THE VIEW FROM HERE

Churning the Potz COULD A “TELL ALL” QUALITY BE A FAMILY TRAIT?

BY EMILY MORRISON

B

Well, he never shies away from conversation period, but you know what I mean.

He cuts through the BS. As a deacon in the Roman Catholic church, before the pandemic began, Dad routinely visited shut-ins, the elderly in nursing homes and people who have no one else to talk to.

Also, he runs a Rites of Christian Initiation class for his parish even if only one or two “students” sign up.

I often joke with him that he should put a decal on his car, “Cruisin’ for Catholics,” so if people see him out-and-about they can flag him down and talk with him about their faith. Because if you want to have a random roadside chat about why you’re angry with the church, or how long it’s been since you’ve been to mass or even why you’ve lost your belief in God, Dad’s your guy.

He listens. He cares. He doesn’t just nod at all the right times or offer some empty platitude about how, “Talking to God is a two-way street.”

Instead, he asks questions like, “So, how’s your prayer life?” then waits for you to respond.

Can’t you see why I love him so?

On top of being silly and punny (he shares grammar puns like, “Let’s eat grandma!” “Let’s eat, grandma!” PUNCTUATION SAVES LIVES!”) he’s also soulful and wise. Honestly, I can’t imagine my life without his voice in my ear telling me, “Just speak your truth, Em. Tell your story. Put it out there.”

So here I am. Letting my insides fall out again, telling the man who reminded me how precious I was as an awkward 13-year-old how much I love him for it. There would be no stories to tell, no wise insights to share, no life lessons learned or corny grammar jokes to crack without him doing it first, and better.

Even if he is a cauldron churner if ever I saw one in aisle 12 of Bud’s Shop N Save.

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THERE AREN’T MANY thoughts I keep to myself. I’m a bit of a talky-talkerson. One of my favorite authors and fellow Mainers, Stephen King, writes about this ‘‘tell all’’ quality in himself in his memoir “On Writing.” Apparently, one of King’s uncles once described young Stephen by saying, “Every time Stephen opens his mouth his guts fall out.”

This, for better or worse, is how I roll. Whenever I speak, some of my innards come out. Graphic, I know.

In my defense, I take after my father who is also a writer and lover of words. He lives to stir the pot and keep stirring it, and there have been many times in my life that I’ve both loved and loathed him for it.

Take, for example, when I was around 13. Dad would purposefully drop the names of boys he knew I had crushes on in conversation to get a rise out of me.

While unloading an armload of groceries he’d casually look across the counter and say, “Oh, by the way, I just saw Jesse down at the store. Didn’t he look like he was looking for someone all the way down aisle 12?!”

To which I’d reply, “Dad, stop! Jesse was not looking for me in aisle 12 of Bud’s Shop N Save. That’s ridiculous.”

He’d pause, study my face for 10 full seconds, then inform me that not only was Jesse not looking for me, he wasn’t even there because, of course, Dad had made the whole thing up.

“But if I had seen Jesse, he most certainly would have been looking for you because you are a precious, precious peanut.”

See what I mean? My father is a cauldron churner if ever I saw one.

In Dad’s defense, he was never mean-spirited in his many fictional confessions. He simply enjoyed interacting so much that in the absence of real conversation, he’d make one up.

Now, for what I love about him. He’s equally fearless when it comes to talking about the real things in life — faith, vocation, family, loss. He never shies away from having tough conversations.

EMILY MORRISON is a high school English teacher, freelance writer and editor from coastal Maine. She is living happily-ever-after with her handsome husband, three beautiful children and two beloved dogs. And a cat.