Perfectly Pineapple

Yes, pineapples.  Pineapples will help us to continue with the theme of welcoming you to our blog and Abby to our ranks.  In some cultures, the pineapple is associated with the notion of welcome.  According to Beverly Pack (via mindspring.com), "to the Carib, the pineapple symbolized hospitality, and the Spaniards soon learned they were welcome if a pineapple was placed by the entrance to a village. This symbolism spread to Europe, then to Colonial North America, where it became the custom to carve the shape of a pineapple into the columns at the entrance of a plantation.  During early Colonial days in the United States, families would set a fresh pineapple in the center of the table as a colorful centerpiece of the festive meal, especially when visitors joined them in celebration. This symbolized the utmost in welcome and hospitality to the visitor, and the fruit would be served as a special desert after the meal. Often when the visitor spent the night, he was given the bedroom which had the pineapples carved on the bedposts or headboard--even if the bedroom belonged to the head of the household. The pineapple has been a universal symbol of hospitality and welcome for many centuries all over the world."  So, in honor of the pineapple, and hence the spirit of welcome, we've attached a link to a great craft project for you and the kiddos thanks to Squidoo.com. Click here to find details on how to make a Pineapple Magnet with Felt.  Don't forget to become our friend on Facebook and click the "like" button under the status with the welcome mat.  This will ensure your participation in our drawing for a free February Facial with Abby Armitage.