As I was making up my shopping list for Thanksgiving, it occurred to me that I probably use more SPICES at Thanksgiving than at any other time of the year. If you try to buy them at the grocery store, you will probably break the bank.

I have ordered spices from Penzey's and have found their selection, quality, and prices to be outstanding. They also opened up a shop at 24 LaSalle Road in West Hartford, and I could have driven there today. But I was short on time today so I decided to see if we had a local option.

What luck! In Manchester, next to Adam's Mill Restaurant is The Spice Mill at 191 Adams Street. They supply manufacturers and restaurants with spices and also offer smaller quantities for home use. They have spices, herbs, and specialty items, and the prices are a fraction of what you would pay in the grocery store.

If you are not in the area, they also have on-line shopping and free shipping for orders over $50. Check them out - you'll be glad you did!

Happy Thanksgiving!

A blonde was recently fired from an M&M factory for throwing away the Ws. Therefore, she needed a new job to support herself. After going around town asking if anyone needed work done, she found a man who needed a painter.


"I'm here for the paint job," she said.


"Alright," said the man. "Here is the paint and your brush. I want you to paint my porch behind the house."


The blonde immediately went to work painting. Within an hour, she was done and decided to put on a second coating.


After she finished, she returned to the man for her pay. She said with satisfaction, "I not only completed the job, but I even put on two coats of paint! By the way, that isn't a porsche out back. It's a new BMW.

☺

Matt

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Next Thursday is the 73rd Running of the Manchester Road Race, and there is still time to sign up. If you are one of the few who have never run in it or cheered others on, you must check out this local extravangaza.

It began in 1927 and continued until 1934, when it was halted, most likely due to effects of the Great Depression and World War II. In 1945, dedicated runners, local businesses, and civic leaders reinstituted this annual event and it has continued ever since.

Runners, walkers, and spectators are drawn to the 4.748 mile course that runs through the center of Manchester, from Main Street to Charter Oak, Highland, Porter, and East Center Street. World-class runners compete for top prizes, less famous runners try to improve their times, and everyone else enjoys the cheering of the estimated 15,000-20,000 spectators that line the entire course. With music along the way, silly runners in costumes, and a bouyant atmosphere throughout, it is sure to become your tradition, if it is not already.

Last year, over 12,000 runners registered, with over 10,000 people officially finishing. The proceeds of the event support Muscular Dystrophy research and local charities.

If you want to see the spirit of Manchester and support good causes, sign up for the race. It's also a great way to get rid of a few calories early in the day so you can enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner without guilt.

For more information, check out the official website: http://www.manchesterroadrace.com/

For pictures that capture the true essence of the race for many people, visit http://connecticut.metromix.com/events/photogallery/manchester-road-race-2008/800066/content

"Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind." Mary Ellen Chase. What better way to get the children in the Christmas state of mind that a visit to Santa at the Enfield Square Mall?

Santa will be arriving at the Enfield Square Mall (Target entrance) on November 21st at noon on a bright red fire truck. From November 21st until Decmeber 24th kids of all ages can visit Santa in the Center Court of the mall. Have pictures taken with Santa. Tell him what you want for Christmas, maybe it is your two front teeth, maybe you need to lobby with him to not get coal this year, or you want to ask for what might be the hottest, hard to get gift this year the Zhu Zhu Pet Hamster. Who knew?

Not to leave out the four legged members of the family, Thursday December 10th from 4:00 - 7:00 pm bring your dogs to the mall and have their pictures taken with Santa.

When will Santa be there each day? Call the Mall office at (860) 745-7000 or email them.

The Enfield Square Mall is located at 90 Elm St. in Enfield, CT. You can visit Enfield Square by taking Interstate 91 and exiting on Exit 47E or Exit 48.

LEAPS AND BONES

201 EVERGREEN WAY

SOUTH WINDSOR, CT 860.648.9708

Are you getting into the Christmas spirit.. or trying too? Are your pets looking to join in the festivities? You have the opportunity this coming Sunday to take your pet dog or cat to Leaps and Bones to have them photographed with Santa.

BRING ME TO HAVE A PHOTO TAKEN WITH SANTA, PLEASE.

Leaps and Bones is sponsoring this event. They are looking for a $10.00 donation, where 100% of your contribution will be going to "Our Companions". Our companions is building a new facility in Ashford, CT for animals that have been surrendered, would be euthanized at human societies.. or just don't have a home. This place is a 'NO KILL' facility.. and could use our help.

So, if you are in the area, come by Leaps and Bones, this Sunday, November 22, 2009 between 11:00am and 4:00pm. They are located off I-84, Exit 62 at teh Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk. Bring your pet to help another pet. Isn't this what Christmas is all about?

Stay until 5pm, when they will be lighting the huge Christmas Tree right next door. You can make a day of it.

Hope to see you there.

FOR ACCURATE INFORMATION ON REAL ESTATE... CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AGENT

Info about the author:

Valerie Osterhoudt is a Cromwell Connecticut Residential Realtor who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Middlesex County of CT, which includes Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Berlin, Middletown, Wethersfield, Newington, as well as all other surrounding areas. Please visit me at www.CTrealtorMLS.com for all your relocation and/or local needs.

For real estate.. all you need to know, is VALERIEO

If you're thinking about buying a home in Cromwell CT area, there are plenty of great buys in today's market. There is no better time than now to take advantage of these homes while interest rates remain at an all time low. For more information on Cromwell CT real estate's homes and/or condos please visit Johnson Real Estate to access the newest listings.

Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - 860.883.8889 cell - valerierealtor@sbcglobal.net

Copyright ©2009 - By Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - All rights reserved...... *** SANTA PAWS IS COMING TO TOWN.... SOUTH WINDSOR CT***