Slăinte Bags was founded by Jill Bornemann in October 2003. Jill moved from Dublin, Ireland twelve years ago and after a long stint in corporate America decided to follow her heart. Jill started sewing many, many years ago and developed an addiction for vintage upholsteries. When her studio apartment became overwhelmed with her collection she decided it was time to kick the habit or put the materials to use. Friends and family were the first to see the potential of her work and encouraged her to launch Slăinte Bags.

What makes the bags so unique is the choice of fabrics. Materials are found in estate sales, on holidays, at trade shows and are donated to the company. Jill doesn't follow trends; she bases her collection on what will compliment the urban uniform of jeans, khakis and everything black. The bags are designed to sharpen an outfit; to give an overall well- dressed look with the minimum of effort.

What makes the bags so identifiable is the simplicity of the patterns along with their functionality. Over the years Jill has encouraged feedback from her customers on how they think the styles and patterns could be improved. Because of this the bags have evolved, each new batch sporting an enhancement like cell phone pockets, reinforced and adjustable straps, key rings, vinyl lining and waterproof bases.

Slăinte means "health" or "Cheers" in Gaelic and is pronounced slawn-tcha.

This month's column will look at some of the potential pollution sources inside our homes and ways to eliminate or minimize them. One of the easiest to eliminate is tobacco smoke. We know how noxious second hand smoke is to us and to our children. Simply make your home a non-smoking house. Ask guests to smoke outside.

One group of potential contaminants is combustion sources. These include un-vented kerosene and gas space heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves and gas stoves. Particles from incompletely burned fuel and combustion gases can accumulate in our homes. This can be remedied in several ways. Remember to use the exhaust fans above cooking stoves. Consider installing an exhaust fan if you don't have one. Ask the gas company to check and make sure your burners are properly adjusted to minimize pollutant emissions. It is a good idea to have your chimneys, flues, furnaces and central air systems inspected each year and to make any necessary repairs.

That's it for this month. Next time we will look at radon and biological contaminants. Remember that is the cumulative effect of these sources that results in indoor air problems.

A couple invited some people to dinner. At the table, the wife turned to their six-year-old daughter and said, "Would you like to say the blessing?"

"I wouldn't know what to say," the girl replied.

"Just say what you hear Mommy say," the wife answered.

The daughter bowed her head and said, "Lord, why on earth did I invite all these people to dinner?"