Pearls and Pennies from The Purple Pomegranate April
04/01/08

The history of April Fool's Day or All Fool's Day is uncertain, but the current thinking is that it began around 1582 in France with the reform of the calendar under Charles IX. The Gregorian Calendar was introduced, and New Year's Day was moved from March 25 - April 1 (new year's week) to January 1.

Communication traveled slowly in those days and some people were only informed of the change several years later. Still others, who were more rebellious refused to acknowledge the change and continued to celebrate on the last day of the former celebration, April 1. These people were labeled "fools" by the general populace, were subject to ridicule and sent on "fool errands," sent invitations to nonexistent parties and had other practical jokes played upon them. This harassment evolved over time and a custom of prank-playing continue on the first day of April. So go for it! Think up a fun practical joke today in honor of the new year.

in this issue
  • Ruth's Ramblings
  • Artist Spotlight - Isaac Childs
  • Carin's Corner - Is Your Baby's Nursery Green?
  • Joke of the Month

  • Artist Spotlight - Isaac Childs
    Small Leather Pad Portfolios

    Isaac Childs, the founder and designer of Rustico, developed his line of leather products for both quality and consistency. Rustico is based in Orem, Utah and has an extensive array of leather journals, log books, binder covers, hospitality items and accessories.

    Rustico is recognized as a leader in the custom handmade leather journal industry. Every product represents the highest quality of both materials and craftsmanship. Their design and manufacturing team consists of highly skilled artisans who each bring to the table many years of experience. The handmade touch, look and feel is exemplified in every aspect of every leather journal, log book, photo album, and leather accessory they offer.

    The pages in many of their sketchbooks, leather journals, and photo albums are hand torn and folded to specific sizes. The paper is acid free and reflects the unique texture of old fashioned paper presses. The leather covers are cut from top grain hides and are bound by hand to the paper using a binding style that has been tried and true for centuries. Quality is checked and re-checked through every step of the process, ensuring only the finest leather products leave their facility.


    Carin's Corner - Is Your Baby's Nursery Green?
    green symbol

    There isn't a more important room to make green than the nursery. Almost always a room is revitalized for a new baby. As newborns spend a lot of time in their rooms it is a crucial environment to make as pure as possible. Organic, natural and green sources are becoming more readily available but sometimes take time to research. I mention some companies just to encourage you on your search.

    Start with organic or non-toxic paints. Look for paints that have no VOC's. There are organic paint companies (www.yolocolorhouse.com for instance). You can order over the internet if there isn't a dealer in your area. Sherwin Williams and other large paint companies now have a line of paints with no or low VOC's.

    Next consider flooring. Most new carpet and underpad off gas for many weeks or months. Consider a cork floor or bamboo; both are green, easily available and will not contaminate the air your baby breathes. If you are refinishing a wood floor or putting down a new one remember to use a non-toxic sealers and glue. Again these can be found on the internet if you can't find a source locally. Finally look for cotton sheets, bedding and clothing (www.garnethill.com)

    You can be proud of the green start you give your baby and he or she will be forever grateful.


    Joke of the Month

    Marjorie was visiting her parents with her new husband, a Navy frogman, when he drew her aside.

    "I don't think your mother likes me," he said. "I was explaining that I can't wear my wedding ring when I dive, because barracudas are attracted to shiny things and might bite off my finger.

    And she said, 'Well, can't you wear it on a chain around your neck?' "


    Ruth's Ramblings
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    It's still not quite spring here yet, but as I'm writing this my daffodils are finally poking their leaves up out of the ground even though they've been snowed on a couple of times. The ski season is winding down with the last day being at the end of this week. I hope everyone got to come and enjoy the great snow this year. It was a wonderful season and the skiing was great.

    We're all thinking about the busy summer season coming up. Rebekah and I are heading off to Las Vegas at the end of the month to the ACRE show which is the newest American Craft market. Last year, we found tons of new, fun stuff and I'm sure this year will be even better.

    We're starting to see new work coming in from our orders we placed in Philadelphia. So keep an eye on our "What's New" page to see what's arrived. I think everyone will love the featured artist's work this month. The rustic leather work of Isaac Child's is the perfect accent for any home and he makes some great men's gifts ( which are so hard to find, right girls?).

    Don't forget that Whitefish Gallery Nights is beginning again on May 1st. It's the first Thursday of every month from 6:00 to 9:00 pm and we have lots of wonderful artists lined up. There are 14 galleries participating this year so come to downtown Whitefish on the first Thursday night of each month to see lots of wonderful, local art.

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