World Wide Gnome Association December 2006 Newsletter

Nola, a Whitecap Maiden who after a lengthy courtship and amazing "Joining Ritual" lives a fulfilling life with her new mate, Kelvin at #19 Mushroom Lane. Nola loves to bake treats for forest folk. Here you see her sharing with one of her favorite woodland friends; while Kelvin works on building a large snow gnome for the Mushroom Lane Winter Carnival.

Mouth-watering aromas fill their cozy mushroom home as Nola prepares all sorts of her famous ginger cookies. Young gnome children's eyes always gleam and their noses twitch when gifted with one at the Mushroom Lane Carnival event held every December.

I hope you enjoyed this episode from the new series The Gnomes of Mushroom Lane. Mushroom Lane is a registered trademark of Cornish Heritage Farms. The mushroom homes used throughout this series are part of a set marketed as rubber stamps. This month's featured Mushroom Lane home stamp is #SL-2419PUMSC #19 (approximately 4 x 5 inches) and can be ordered by contacting liz@cornishheritagefarms.com or by visiting the Cornish Heritage Farms' website at www.cornishheritagefarms.com [Nola and Kelvin are not part of this stamp - they were cut out and placed in front of their home using small foam pop-up-dots giving this picture card a super 3-dimensional look.]

Special Christmas Book Review - Painted Treasures, ISBN 0-9673504-1-7

I wish to welcome poet and author, Donald G. Henkel as a new Honorary Member. Donald recently published a book called, Painted Treasures, which is illustrated by his talented son, D. B. Henkel. It is a book containing a lengthy poem about a group of gnomes who after years of living underground come out to bring colour to their world. There is a moral to this tale, which suggests that anyone can help solve the problem of feeling unhappy, by finding new things to do. I highly recommend this hardcover book as something to put on all your shopping lists! Cover price is $20.50 U.S.

Donald's in his senior years and in addition to this book has published several other poems and a book called, A Legend of Santa And His Brother Fred. I thoroughly enjoyed all his literary works that he shared with me. If you would like to obtain a personally autographed copy contact Donald aka Clever II, G298 at bfquillpen@msn.com. QueenGnome G7

Review of this new book by member, Gnome Devotee G9

If anyone doubts that Gnomes can influence humans in a positive way, all they need to do is read this book. I was told that the writer had no real knowledge of Gnomes and their habits. With his writing talent, however, and his son's artistic ability, this book magically came to be.

The illustrations are lovely, and the text is written in a beautiful, poetic style that's very smooth. The messages conveyed are gentle, clear, and unmistakably wholesome. Many books about Gnomes tend to be geared for young readers, but "Painted Treasures" is definitely for every age.

The story opens with several Gnome miners realizing that they are no longer content working under the ground all year long. A vote is taken to do something different. They and their wives venture above the ground and decide to help create a colorful fall season by painting trees and loose leaves in bright colors; even houses. The marvelous Gnomes proceed in creating glorious paint colors that greatly enhance their countryside.

We human Gnome lovers know that Gnomes are very small (strong though!). They don't shop in stores for supplies like humans, or use our money. They're highly skilled at using raw woodland materials and making all of their little tools.

Although the story's Gnomes started out wanting to change their own unhappiness, they did it in such a confident, loving way that their own change brought new light and happiness to the world around them. The story's message is that we shouldn't be afraid if we feel unhappy and in need of change. (Perhaps it can help to talk things over with someone special.) Try to find ways of making a change that can also benefit others. (You don't have to wait until you feel unhappy either!) Work with what you have. Don't look for recognition. Remember: Whatever you decide to change in a positive way can start out being temporary and quickly become permanent. There are many ways to make small changes in our lives that can brighten the lives of others - just like this story's Gnomes made positive changes in their part of the world.

Thoughtful Gnomes have also made sure there are several blank pages at the end of the book, where special leaves can be inserted by humans. (Unfortunately, Gnome paint recipes are still secret.)

"Painted Treasures" First Edition 2006 is a hard-cover book, 9 in. x 11 in., published by Quillpen (ISBN 0--9673504-1-7). Available for $20.50 (plus postage) from Hollyhock Corners, 1520 Waverly Drive, Trenton, Michigan 48183. Contact bfquillpen@msn.com.

Book Review - “GNOME away from home” (Andrews McMeel Publishing - ISBN 13:978-0-7407-5723-5)

The “Passport” is the story. It has a rather “flip” tone. The part I take exception to is where it says that Gnomes despise cats. Since cats are so prominent in a lot of Gnome artwork, cards, etc.

I don’t know where the writer got the idea that Gnomes don’t like cats. Gnomes love cats and take good care of them! Informed Gnome collectors know that Gnomes respect and care for all animals. (I sent a message to the publisher, but whether they’ll re-do the booklet remains to be seen. Gnome lovers will have to be guided accordingly.)

The box contains a nice little figurine; however, as a cat lover I wouldn’t purchase this box for a gift -- especially for a child. For a few dollars more, purchasing a copy of the original book “Gnomes” would be a far better value and contain accurate information.

Christmas as a Gnome

Greetings Fellow Humans and Gnomes!,

It has indeed been a long time since I have been gone, but I did promise myself to give my most favorite club, the World Wide Gnome Association, some articles from time to time, and to be sure to submit something during the Holidays! First off, GrandfatherGnome and I have decided to make our own Christmas Tree Village. The Christmas Tree Village is at our Christmas Tree, it is where we are taking some of our smaller gnomes and putting them in the Christmas Tree! We have a fair amount of small and stuffed gnomes that we have placed in this magical village. It makes me feel wonderful whenever I place another gnome into the tree. I am beginning to experience what they feel like, as a gnome.

Christmas as a Gnome, is such a wonderful feeling. Knowing you are a gnome that is having a wonderful time in this Christmas Tree Village, where it is warm and you are with other magical creatures such as elves, and little Santa Clauses! Ahhh.... the sweet magical life as a gnome. This Christmas of 2006, I inspire everyone here in the World Wide Gnome Association to put some of your smaller or softer gnomes in your Christmas Trees and make a Christmas Tree Village. Imagine all the wonderful, beautiful Christmas Tree Villages that are going to be all over the world this Christmas. I think it would be wonderful if all WWGA members placed some small or stuffed gnomes in their very own Christmas Tree Villages.

A Message from Patrick II G285

I want to thank everyone that has joined the World Wide Gnome Association and made this magical club fun, not just for me, but for all of you. I have been in the World Wide Gnome Association around one year and a few months now, and I would like to say I have enjoyed the WWGA ever since I joined. I currently have a page on the GalaxGnomes website called "Gnomes Go Hollywood" were I post information about gnomes that are seen on commercials, movies, and that have even guest-starred on TV shows! For more updates on any of my past and future columns, upcoming events, and more, please visit us at GalaxGnomes: www.freewebs.com/galaxgnomes/

Monthly Contest Draw

Just look at this scene and tell me who you think lives within this quaint little winter home and what's happening inside!

All entries will have their names entered into the monthly draw for a chance to win a special Mushroom Lane rubber stamp!

Gnome Devotee G9	I think the residents are newlyweds or expectant parents. The house looks spruced up for an occasion that’s highly special. The wreath outside and greenery on the inside window areas says something festive is in the air. I think a guy Gnome repainted the little house for him and his bride to occupy on return from their honeymoon. I also think the snowman was made by neighbors, to add a special touch. It’s also possible a Gnome wife has just given birth to twin boys. Even though Gnomes always have twins (and only once), usually a boy and a girl, there are instances of the twins being two girls or two boys. The blue-tone shutters may indicate that two boys have been born.
Roy G297	A gnome is living inside, and inside are the gnomes decorating their mushroom tree. Thank you.
Patrick G285	I received this swell little home a couple days ago and I thought about who could be living here. But, I finally decided. I think in this interesting, mushroom home resides an older couple. I think that their seven grandchildren have came over for the holidays to spend Christmas with there grandparents. But, they didn't come alone. They brought with them many decorations. The oldest children decorated the outside of the mushroom home, while the smaller children decorated inside. The youngest child of them all built a snowman outside. I would love to see the indoor decorations. I think currently in this picture they are all inside, praying at the table, before they eat their Christmas dinner.
Daisy the Garden Gnome G164 WINNER!	"Aurora" Deep in the forest, and once upon a time, there was a charming mushroom house. With its tiny blue shutters and bows on its shingles, it looked so snug and cozy sticking out of the snow. It was gaily decorated for the holidays, for its occupant was a special gnome - a Gnome of Christmas. Aurora (for that was her name) took special delight in planning all kinds of good things for the humans in her area. She baked, sewed, crocheted and crafted all sorts of small surprises in the months preceding Christmas so she would have something to deliver to each and every farm. She took special care to make extras of everything, as there would be guests at those farms, too. But Aurora's most special gifts - the ones that she enjoyed making the most - were the ones she created for the humans who had very little, who were poor. For these, she baked magnificent cakes and baskets of cookies; knitted warm mittens, hats and scarves; and created toys and storybooks for the poor children to read and enjoy. Then, she prepared everything for delivery. With the help of the deer, foxes, mice and other woodland creatures, as well as a little magic, baskets and bundles wrapped in brown paper and tied with red ribbon and jingle bells arrived on the doorsteps of the farm homes around dawn on Christmas day. Imagine the delight on the faces of the farm folk and children as they smelled the aromas of spicy cookies on their doorsteps, or unwrapped brown paper to find a cuddly doll or warm woolen stockings! Aurora's heart was warmed, and the humans felt mysteriously loved. If only they knew that all this came out of a tiny mushroom deep in the forest!
Gette G51	The gnomes are living in the home. They are sitting in the living room around the fire and playing board games. They are happy and safe. They are so happy to have one another and they understand the true meaning of life, love and happiness.
Einnob #110	Within this large mushroom lives a very special old and wonderful female Gnome who has over decades directed young female Gnomes in using mushrooms in home cooking and the medical uses of various fungi. First and foremost she instructs on the collection of the correct mushrooms for consumption. I am sure you know that all mushrooms are not safe to eat nor are fit for a Gnome Home. After collecting the wild mushroom some are dried, some are canned and some are used to make a broth that is sipped on cold winter evenings as a "hot drink before bedtime". It has long been a tradition that on Christmas eve all the ladies of the local Gnome families gather at this home to celebrated the wonderful gift of Mother Nature's Mushroom. While the females are celebrating the men of the local families go out to seek a new large livable mushroom home for the newest female going thru the passage of young lady to an available for marriage age.

Holiday Thoughts for Gnomers …

… which is the word I like for Gnome collectors/lovers (like me). Technically (as most of you know), we’re “Nanologists” – but that requires too much time to explain.

Not everyone sets up a large Christmas tree. Gnomes are beloved by so many people from all backgrounds and walks of life. No matter where they live, they fit right in. They just might not be seen or even recognized as Gnomes if someone does see one. We humans have no idea of how many countries they live in, but their central language has a definite advantage over all the languages humans speak.

Whether you set up a large tree or have a small table tree, be sure to place special Gnomes around the base. If you don’t set up a tree, then just do a special holiday table arrangement with them amidst greens and pinecones (real or artificial) … and they’ll feel festive. Remember: It’s their special season for gift-giving and spreading loving holiday wishes. They’ve worked toward that all during the year.

Sarah's Crafty Corner

Sarah has been very busy creating seasonal cards with the Children of Mushroom Lane. They are easy to create and make a perfect craft for all ages. They are not only fun to make but also heartwarming to receive. One sheet of cardstock can be used to make one or two cards. To make one card simply fold the cardstock in half lengthwise. To make two cards just cut your folded piece in half. Then embellish your cards with stamps, paints, cut-outs, glitter, the list goes on...add a personal photo or a seasonal recipe to the inside of the card along with a special greeting. And, don't forget to have all those inspiring artists sign their cards on the back!

All the gnomes in our coloring book can be printed off and used to make your cards more "Gnome Made".

Bulletin Board

Ed Moritko and his wife have a few Tom Clark Gnomes that they have decided to part with and if you are interested feel free to contact Ed Moritko at home by email ejwack@bellsouth.net. Ed has advised me that he will respond to any inquiries about gnomes they have and are willing to part with. Their collection is from the early 70’s-80’s and they have approx 300 or so (they lost count) - true Gnomers! The Moritko's still love their Gnomes and have some that they would not even think of getting rid of, but they feel that at this point in their lives, they should maybe get their collection down to a smaller level. Ed wrote that they are not out to make big bucks off any of these...so if interested, don't wait, contact Ed today!

SHOPPING BASKET

Kimmel Gnomes has announced that to assure delivery before Christmas you must place your orders before December 5, 2006!

http://giftchaletauburn.com has Tomtar items listed including Christmas wrap, tins, placemats and other Swedish items.

Wonderful detailing and painting! The wheelbarrow gnome actually will stand without his wheelbarrow!

The naming give away will continue with this new lot of gnomes. A tentative schedule of naming dates has been selected and posted by each gnome.

Our 10" banks and 4" pot sitters will be on sale through November. The reduced shipping will be continued through December 15th.

We are looking at restructuring our shipping to include shipping in the price of the item. This would reduce the cost of shipping on some of the smaller items and increase the cost on a couple of the larger items. We would be very interested in hearing from you with comments on this option. We are also looking into other online payment providers that would give us more flexibility with the shipping options.

We are looking into a line of gnome greeting cards, prints and tableware (we've gone gnomally nuts!). We have been unable to locate the acrylic frames for the calendars we had planned for 2007 so look for those in 2008!

..plus so much more! Please drop by and peek at all the new items just waiting for you this season:

In a couple of weeks (on Nov. 15th), we will be having our seasonal drawing for a free prize to one lucky person on our emailing list! Please watch for an email that says: "You are the Silver Penny winner!" You must respond to that email within 3 days and we will ship your gift at no charge. Watch for it soon.

Kathryn Sheehan The Silver Penny, LLC 18 Star Road Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107 Phone: 207-799-2447 http://www.thesilverpenny.com

This new 30th Anniversary Edition of Gnomes features an after word by Wil Huygen, where he explains how he and Rien Poortvliet created their charming, mock-serious investigation into the secret world of these tiny nocturnal creatures, as well as several newly-discovered sketches by the late illustrator. Covering all areas of gnome culture, including architecture, education, medicine, courtship, and their relationships with other mythological beings, with page after page of Poortvliet''s whimsical and imaginative illustrations, Gnomes is sure to delight and amuse readers for the next thirty years and beyond.

Check out these 4 new gnome rubber stamps available from Third Coast Rubber Stamps, P.O. Box 66665 Houston, Texas 77266-6665 24/7 voice and fax: 713-522-8348 http://www.thirdcoastrs.com

The ones ending in the letter "C" are $2.75 each while the other two ending with the letter "B" are $2.50 each and because they are not mounted the shipping is only a couple of dollars.

Musical Gnome in a Box An enchanting version of the classic toddler-pleasing toy, this one hides a most magical surprise. Turn the little crank to hear "Pop Goes the Weasel" and when the music stops - surprise! - up jumps the happy bearded gnome for a hug. Charming pictures of the gnome in his forest home make the tin box equally fun. For ages 18 months+. Size : 5" x 5-1/2"

New From Lionel — a ‘G’ Scale (for “Gigantic!”) Under-the-Tree Train,

Leave it to Lionel to create this bigger-than-life Christmas Train as a tribute to the classic Lionel Christmas sets of the 1950’s. Extra large ‘G’ scale dwarfs (gnomes) standard ‘O’ scale Lionel rolling stock. The locomotive measures a whopping 10” tall; features sparkling Christmas lights, realistic train chugging sounds, and a piercing steam whistle — all while playing your choice of O Christmas Tree or Jingle Bells! Animated Elves (gnomes) in the Tender Car actually shovel coal into a bag for naughty children.

Two more animated elves on the Bell Car crank the handles to ring the bells. And on the lighted Caboose, Santa’s elves (gnomes) actually load Santa’s bag full of presents (for the “nice” children presumably!), while Santa himself waves from the rear platform.

Superb Lionel quality includes die-cast wheels, DC transformer, and eight remote functions that let you start and stop, go forward and backward, sound the whistle, ring the bells, play the Christmas carols, and hear Santa’s ‘Ho Ho Ho, Merry Christmas!’ greeting.

Comes with 12 curved and 4 straight track sections to make 52” diameter-round, 65” diameter rounded, or even larger oblong track layout.

December 1	Gnomes, Shake-Your-Head Day
December 1	Gnomers' Day - (to honor human gnome collectors)
December 22	Annual Grog Celebrations
December 25	Christmas