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Writer, Explorer, Storyteller.

16/11/2024

The new Chief Canine Officer of The Social Bark is all muscle and ‘tude. 🐾💪

14/11/2024

Xanax and a Buddhist retreat.

This is one of the very first adventure photos I took of Lilly, capturing the New England vibe of the bog sheds—a scene that would come to symbolize our love for cranberry harvest season.

I miss this girl … all the time. And sometimes I’m not sure if I’m referring to me, Lilly, or both of us. It’s been one of those years – the kind where self-diagnosed burnout hits, and you contemplate fleeing to India with a 3 month supply of Xanax and a map to a Buddhist retreat. I imagine a long, winding dirt road leading to a spiritual journey immersed with meditation and reflection. I’ll sip strange teas and listen to Dharma talks on how to live a compassionate and mindful life. I’ll find…something.

Maybe these mixed emotions have bubbled to the surface while ruminating through my mother’s life, finding pictures of me as a little girl, full of hope, promise, and wanderlust. The end of something always triggers the end of something else and we find ourselves contemplating our existence. Those “What am I doing with my life?” questions creep up your spine, and leave you shivering in untapped potential.

My Mom now resides in a long-term care facility for dementia patients. I’m not quite ready to tell that story, but it’s there, festering. There’s anger toward the health care system, and far too much sadness around my own inability to take care of her. I know she is safe, but she’s not where either of us want her to be.

Safety and happiness are not the same thing.

Meanwhile, the Buddhist retreat still beckons – or really, any place beyond here. Sometimes we need to return to the bogs … to that place where the air envelopes you in peace while you sip exotic tea and remember everything you’re about to become.

Find your happy place today. 💗

Thesocialbark.com

08/11/2024

There are moments in life when you can feel it—the quiet tension between where you are and where you’re about to be when you finally cross that bridge.

It’s as if the universe is holding its breath, and so are you. The path ahead feels both uncertain and full of possibility, like standing on the edge of something extraordinary that you can’t quite put into words yet.

It’s not a moment of arrival, but of becoming. You’re on the verge of something bigger than yourself, and the pieces are starting to fall into place, even if you don’t have the full picture yet. It’s the sense that greatness isn’t just a distant dream—it’s something you’re stepping into, one choice, one challenge, one breakthrough at a time.

You might not know exactly how it’s going to unfold or what shape it will take, but you know one thing: you’re ready. Ready to push past the limits, ready to trust the process, ready to embrace the unknown. Because greatness isn’t always about the grand, flashy moments. Sometimes, it’s about the quiet confidence that comes from knowing you’ve already put in the work, and the best is yet to come.

So if you’re feeling that quiet excitement, that spark of something huge on the horizon—trust it. You’re on the verge of something incredible. And while the journey may be full of twists and turns, keep going. Greatness is often most profound when it’s inexplicable. Keep moving forward. It’s coming. 💗🐾

thesocialbark.com

06/11/2024

Work It Wednesday: Building a Business, Branding, and the Entrepreneurial Journey 🌟

Welcome to "Work It Wednesday!" Each week, Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile, in collaboration with Laurie Barrett of The Social Bark, will dive into the behind-the-scenes hustle of building a business, shaping a brand, and embracing the entrepreneurial spirit.

Entrepreneurship is no easy feat—it's a blend of creativity, resilience, strategy, and hard work. Jennifer Mekler, (Mrs. M, in our featured pic), has navigated this journey with lots of grit and a touch of grace, taking her vision from concept to reality while staying true to her mission. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or just curious about the process, you won’t want to miss our weekly Wednesday posts.

Tune In Every Wednesday! Work It Wednesday will be more than just a weekly feature—we hope to grow this into a community for entrepreneurs, dreamers, and go-getters to learn, grow, and connect. Whether you’re building a brand, launching a startup, or simply interested in the world of business, each Wednesday will bring fresh insights from those who are making it happen.

https://www.thesocialbark.com/
https://mrsmeklersmercantile.com/

Photo credit: Stephanie Caracciolo Olsen

27/10/2024

When he woke at 5:30, barking and rearing to go, I knew I had found my spirit animal. 💛🧡💙

06/09/2024

I am leaving for Vermont this afternoon, on my way to pick up Sir Winston Finley.

I’ve been thinking a lot about Lilly as I venture on this new journey. I often wonder what life is like over the Rainbow Bridge…if there are more treats than she can handle, and no baths required. I’ve run the gamut of emotions since her passing and have questioned my decision to move on with a new dog more than once.

But it’s not often in life that we experience true, unconditional love. Even in the best of times, our fellow humans…spouses, partners, and friends…are busy with their own lives. There is simply not enough time in the day for anyone to be everything to someone.

Except with a dog.

You are its world. And it reminds you of that – daily – with warm paws, wet kisses, and well-loved toys at the door. The car is a chance to share the next adventure, and a simple walk around the block is an excitable trek full of smells, sounds, and feels. Dogs remind us to slow down, breathe, roll in the grass and appreciate every second of every day.

I’ll do that again.

Still missing you my sweet girl. I know you’ll be grinning from over the bridge when I pick up Winston tomorrow, as if to say, “Mom, this is gonna be fun…and I’ll be watching.”💗

07/08/2024

Are you still giving that same old bottle of wine as a business gift? CHECK THIS OUT!

Elevate your corporate gifting with something truly memorable: Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile Booze Infuser Bottles.🍾

These unique infuser bottles are the ultimate way to your customers, clients, and friends with style....and get them custom branded with your logo!

The Collection boasts seven distinct infusions, each with its own flair and personality. Hosting a breakfast event? Opt for the Bloody Mix to add a zesty kick to your brunch. Planning a party? The Lime Light will infuse a refreshing tang that's perfect for sunny days.😎

Whether you're organizing a grand gala, an intimate gathering, or simply seeking the ideal way to express gratitude to your colleagues, these infusers are your ticket to a world of flavor and delight.

For added inspiration, each bottle features a QR code that provides access to a curated list of cocktail recipes. And for those who prefer non-alcoholic options, these infusers can also enhance teas, lemonades, and other beverages, ensuring everyone enjoys the celebration.

Discover the full cocktail recipe guide here: https://mrsmeklersmercantile.com/pages/recipes

Make your next business gift unforgettable with Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile – where every bottle is a celebration waiting to happen. 🍹✨

Need more information? Message The Social Bark!

Pembroke Chamber of Commerce South Shore Stuff Jennifer Mekler Sea Salted by Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile Cohasset143

26/07/2024

It's CHRISTMAS IN JULY at Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile!🌲🎅

Here’s a quick rundown of what's brewing:

Friday, July 26th - Pie Day Friday! 🍰

Looks like spirit might have clouded Mrs. M's math skills here at Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile. She intended to bake a few dozen Key Lime pies but ended up with almost three times that amount. If she doesn't sell out by Sunday, she’s getting a Key Lime Pie to the face! Help her avoid that fate by grabbing a pie (or two) at their Cohasset, MA or Pembroke, MA locations! And don’t miss out on the Strawberry Rhubarb Pie, which Jennifer Mekler nailed perfectly!

Saturday & Sunday, July 27-28 - Fresh Baked Fun
Pie Day Friday is great, but the holds even more fresh-baked delights. Visit at either location for a range of treats starting Friday at 10:00 am. They've got scrumptious muffins like Blueberry and Banana Nut, plus English Muffins that are almost donut-like and perfect with their preserves. Look out for freshly baked loaves of Cinnamon Bread and Lemon Blueberry Bread, and don’t miss their Triple Chocolate Chunk and Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. It’s a weekend of delicious reasons to visit! 😊

Don’t forget to snap a pic during your visit and tag Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile on Facebook or Instagram to share your sweet moments! 😁

Pembroke Chamber of Commerce South Shore Stuff

17/07/2024

The Social Bark meets with Kathy Prevett and Jennifer Mekler for "Calm and Chaos…a 15-year friendship forged through ice cream, cookies, and big dreams!"

When I moved to Cohasset in 2023, I stumbled upon the area known as “Beechwood” of this quintessential New England town. Many of the homes are part of the Heritage Trail, featuring 250 of Cohasset’s earliest properties and structures still standing. The architecture evokes a simpler time, and the Beechwood Ball Park looks like a set straight out of Field of Dreams. ⚾️

Down a meandering dirt road in Beechwood lies “The Sugar Shack” – a cozy cabin straight out of Norman Rockwell where you can fill your pantry with candies, custom grazing boxes, craft maple syrups and artisan gifts. Living within walking distance of this little box of sunshine, I often visit, enjoying the honor system of payments in a small cash box or Venmo.

It might be heaven.

I was introduced to the owner, Jennifer Mekler through a mutual friend. Several dog walks later, she invited me to a “Woman’s Mastermind Event” – a gathering of ambitious and talented women Jenn hosts for dinner. The group provides a platform for networking, mentorship, and the exchange of valuable insights. We share ideas, support each other’s goals, and collaborate on projects - fostering a keen sense of community, empowerment, and friendship. It was here I learned Jenn was an accomplished restauranteur, and where I would later meet Kathy Prevett.

In the 1990’s, Kathy owned “The Scoop,” a beloved ice cream shop in Hingham, MA. However, the arrival of the Boston train altered the ambiance, prompting her to close the shop. Kathy then met Jenn when she went to work as a server at one of Jenn’s local restaurants. However, it quickly became clear that waitressing was not Kathy’s “sweet” spot. She excelled in customer service and building relationships, but unfortunately, her long conversations led to delays in service! Recognizing Kathy's talents, Jenn decided to put them to better use, and when she purchased an ice cream shop in Cohasset, she asked Kathy to manage it…because Jenn hates “being sticky.” 🍦

And a friendship was born.

For the next 20 years, Kathy searched for the perfect spot to open another South Shore ice cream parlor. In 2020, she found it, establishing Scoops Ice Cream Company on Kernberma Street in Hull, MA, quickly followed by storefronts on “L” Street and at the famed Paragon Carousel. Kathy is passionate about employing local high school students from Hull and the surrounding towns, many of whom return every summer. She does all of this while also operating a bookkeeping business, servicing several local firms.

Today, Jenn is Master of Mayhem at Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile, with a second location in Pembroke, MA aptly titled Sea Salted by Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile. She is fiercely ambitious and often leaves people wondering when she sleeps. Jenn and Kathy, two powerful female entrepreneurs, make a dynamic, if not quirky, pair. Jenn thrives in organized chaos, while Kathy takes a calmer approach to business. The two will often bicker like an old married couple, but both realize they each bring something unique and special to their friendship table.

Their latest collaboration? Jenn’s dreamy chocolate chip cookies are now featured in Kathy’s shops for her famous ice cream sandwiches. Whether visiting Jenn’s delightful locations or any of Kathy’s 3 locations, be sure to bring your sweet tooth. These two are working on snack attacks, decorated cookies, and candy demonstrations! Life is “sweet!” 🍪🍪

Laurie Barrett - The Social Bark

South Shore Stuff Pembroke Chamber of Commerce Taste of Hull (Takeaways & Restaurants)

11/07/2024

The new Chief Canine Officer of The Social Bark has arrived…and he’s already reaching for the stars.🌟

Presenting Winston Finley the 1st.

It’s been an emotional journey since losing Lilly in February. Her passing left such an immense void that I began visiting breeders and shelters within weeks, desperate to find that connection again…as if replacing her with another dog would somehow fill the enormous hole in my heart. My and grief had nowhere to go. I was drowning in sorrow. I needed to breathe.

For months, I’ve struggled to comprehend the depth of my pain. Lilly was never “just a dog,” but I also felt this inexplicable, gut-wrenching sadness, the likes of which I had never experienced before. Her absence reduced me to unpredictable bouts of sobbing at the sight of a golden retriever, leaving me wondering if I would ever feel whole again. It’s only recently that I’ve come to understand - dogs are unique in their unconditional happiness to see you. Whether I was gone for 6 minutes or 6 hours, Lilly would always greet me with such delight. She would bring me a ball or a toy – never giving it to me but nonetheless presenting – wagging her tail, circling around my legs and gazing at me with such pure, unadulterated joy.

Our human connections rarely match this level of adoration. Yet our souls crave it – acceptance, unconditional love, and the comfort of knowing who we are is enough at any moment in time. When we lose that , we lose the one thing that truly both mends and protects our broken hearts.

I’ve spent time alone, untethered, questioning whether I want another dog - vet bills, time restrictions and p**p bags serving as reminder of what lies ahead. Friends and family have advised me to “take some time…travel…do your own thing,” but after months of trekking, every picture I’ve taken is missing the one thing that brings out my unconditional smile.

Life is better with a dog.

It’s nice to meet you, Winston. I can’t wait to explore the world with you. 💕 🐾

Thesocialbark.com

14/06/2024

Give Dad a day he'll never forget.

You will feel as if you’ve stumbled upon the best of both worlds here…the “Beechwood” area of Cohasset harkens back to old New England. Many of the homes are part of the Heritage Trail, which includes 250 of the town’s earliest homes and structures still standing. The architecture hearkens back to a simpler time and the Beechwood Ball Park looks like a movie set for Field of Dreams.

And down this quintessential New England dirt road is Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile…a sugar shack straight out of Norman Rockwell where you can fill your pantry with candies, custom grazing boxes, craft maple syrups and delicious coffee beans. If live within walking distance to this little box of sunshine, self-discipline is key. Purchases are based on the honor system – you can either place your cash in a small box or Venmo your payment.

In the mid-19th century, the Beechwood neighborhood was a thriving farming community with a general store, post office, school, fire station and Congregational Church, which is the only remaining historic building. The village general store is being restored, and the area borders the Aaron River Reservoir and Wompatuck State Park with an extensive network of hiking trails and a campground.

This might be heaven.

Come visit, and bring Dad for Father’s Day. The Sugar Shack is open 24/7 at 492 Beechwood Street, Cohasset, MA.

South Shore Stuff Sea Salted by Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile Hingham and South Shore Living

31/05/2024

Cape Cod just got sweeter! 💝

Our client, Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile just announced their delectable Milk Chocolate Sea Salted Truffles are now available at Murphy's General Store in Harwichport, MA! Perfectly paired with your favorite read, these truffles are a must-try treat. ⛱️

When you visit, be sure to say hello to the wonderful owners, Jay Skowronek and Heather Skowronek. Indulge in a little sweetness and support local businesses!

Murphy’s General Store is located at 540 Route 28, Harwich Port, MA 02646 and offers a delightful blend of the old and the new. Housed in a charming 175-year-old main street building, this modern and exciting gift shop brings a fresh take on the classic general store experience.

Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce Visit Cape Cod
Cape Cod Times Cape Cod Life

21/05/2024

The BIG EVENT is almost here!

Join The Social Bark at the GRAND OPENING and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Sea Salted with the Pembroke Chamber of Commerce! 🎈👏

Experience the nostalgia, bask in the sweet smells, and indulge yourself…come visit Sea Salted by Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile on Thursday, May 23rd from 4:00-6:00pm. Mrs. M promises plenty of treats, surprises, soaps by Hidden Acres Homestead, signs by Citrus Daisy, and of course…CHOCOLATE! 💝

We’re so excited for this official unveiling. You’ll find us at 50 Corporate Park Drive, Unit 770, Pembroke, MA.

South Shore Stuff Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce

16/05/2024

The Social Bark is thrilled to announce our partnership with Scoops Ice Cream Company Hull, MA! 🎉🍦

Owner Kathy Prevett is thrilled to bring her sweet creations to the heart of Hull for another year. So, grab your friends and family, and head over to any one of their 3 locations this weekend…better yet, visit them all! They can’t wait to serve you some smiles, one scoop at a time! ❤️

🍦540 Nantasket Avenue / Kenberma - open 2:00-8:00, where you’ll also find 2 vegan flavors, and be sure to bring your for a pup cup!

🍦205 Nantasket Avenue at the Paragon Carousel - open 12:00-7:00.

🍦752 Nantasket Avenue (formerly Frost Bite) – open 2:00-8:00.

Join Scoops for a tail-wagging, cone-licking good time, and make this summer the best one yet!

“Because one scoop is never enough!”

Stay tuned for more updates and special events coming your way. See you at Scoops! 🍦🐶❤️

15/05/2024

Friends...The Social Bark is proud to work with Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile and we hope to see you next week!

PLEASE LIKE AND SHARE 💕

Join us for the official After Hours & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the company's new location at Sea Salted by Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile in Pembroke, MA! Hosted by the Pembroke Chamber of Commerce, this is the official GRAND OPENING!

When: Thursday, May 23, 2024, 4:00pm-6:00pm EST
Where: 50 Corporate Park Drive, #770, Pembroke, MA

They'll have lots of great goodies and sweet on hand, including Lemon Blueberry Breads, Colossal Cookies, Grazing Boxes, and more. Plenty of gifts and surprises for Mom, too! Be sure to check out our Queen of Hearts Grazing Boxes, Cranberry Candles, cute caps, and our special variety 100% Vermont Maple Syrups will be available!

If you can't make the Grand Opening, they are open weekly Wednesday-Saturday, beginning at 10:00am.

PSST...this is a great place to order your business gifts!

Plymouth and South Shore Association of Realtors PACTV, Rotary TV Auction South Shore Home, Life & Style South Shore Stuff

16/04/2024

Don’t let anyone steal your shine.💙

13/04/2024

Flowers, owls and dogs…the search continues as I look to grow team.

This is Willy…with a little bit of work, he might be ready for a junior corporate role by the end of the summer. I’m not pawsitive – he needs to clean up a little and lay off the sauce. 🍷

The owls pose a flight risk…likely not a good fit. 🦉

Wishing you wagging tails and a Happy Saturday! 💗

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http://thesocialbark.com/

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Cape Cod just got sweeter! 💝 Our client, Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile just announced their delectable Milk Chocolate Sea Salted Truffles are now available at Murphy's General Store in Harwichport, MA! Perfectly paired with your favorite #beach read, these truffles are a must-try treat. ⛱️ When you visit, be sure to say hello to the wonderful owners, Jay Skowronek and Heather Skowronek. Indulge in a little sweetness and support local businesses! Murphy’s General Store is located at 540 Route 28, Harwich Port, MA 02646 and offers a delightful blend of the old and the new. Housed in a charming 175-year-old main street building, this modern and exciting gift shop brings a fresh take on the classic general store experience. #MrsMeklersMercantile #CapeCod #summervibes #candy #shoplocal #buylocal #sweettreats #generalstore #HarwichportMA #CapeCodLife #summer #experience #capecodma Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce Visit Cape Cod Cape Cod Times Cape Cod Life

The Social Bark hit Plymouth, MA last night and was not disappointed! The night began with a delicious dish from Salt Raw Bar + Fine Cuisine, one of Plymouth’s newer fine dining establishments…already making a name for itself with its eclectic menu of mostly seafood inspired dishes. Don’t miss the pork fried rice plate with soy braised pork belly, Chinese chive, napa cabbage and aji Amarillo aioli. Yum! Craving live music, I made my way down Main Street to The New World Tavern, where old world traditions meet new world innovations. Here, a gastro pub menu is pared with a selection of American craft and imported #beers from around the world. But what truly sets this tavern apart is its electrifying atmosphere fueled by high-energy music and a spirited crowd. This is THAT place. I first heard George Howard sing when he was the frontrunner on vocals for Soul Box, a band formed back in 2015 boasting an eclectic fusion of soul, funk and rock. When the band, well…disbanded…I was disappointed I’d never hear that kind of groove again. However, last night at The New World Tavern, George reemerged with a new energy to that soulful voice. G & the Willikers electrified this local joint with an unforgettable performance that demands attention. You’ll be catching your breath during the high energy, foot stomping Motown jams, but it’s the quieter moments that really showcase George’s talent. Accompanied by Paul Chase on bass, Rick Crowell on drums and Dylan O’Neil on guitar, this band is funky, rock infused and brilliantly quirky…and leaves you anticipating the next show. Enjoy! South Shore Live Music #beers #Massachusetts #livemusic #plymouthma #funk #rockstar #tavern #restaurants

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