We thought we would have to discontinue the popular "Moosely Maine" gift pack this year but found a small stash of the unique moose and Christmas trees ribbon, so will have it one more year. We have given a lot of thought about how to replace it. A mustard gift pack? Maine has the only producer of stone ground mustard in the country. Something like 30 varieties to choose from. But what to put with it? Not a good idea to ship a pound of hot dogs UPS Ground to Florida.

Now we're thinking a maple gift pack. A family near us makes wonderful maple cream, maple sugar, and maple flavored candy. We've already found ribbon for an appropriate bow and some decorations that will go well with the theme. Look for it next year. Maple is a rising industry in Maine, though it will never attain the importance it has in Vermont.

We're worried that shipping charges may drive us right out of mail order. The charge had to go up again this year just to make up for what we lost in shipping last year.

Other than the usual three week dry spell in the middle of the summer, Maine was spared the drought which has hurt so much of the country. The balsam trees in the woods are as nice as ever, maybe better because the insects which can damage the needles are at a low point in their cycle right now. We are looking forward to working with the material which is brought in to us by the pickers.

Once again, thank you for letting us visit you with our brochure and we wish you a peaceful and meaningful Christmas season.