pomegranate seeds

wish list for valentine's day

2012-01-26T20:51:00.000-08:00

We know choosing Valentine's gifts can be a little daunting, but we at Pomegranate are here to help, even if you just want a little something for a special person. How about a lovely French heart soap in lavender, lemongrass or tulip with some rosebuds, tucked into an organdy bag? Just $4.50. They're all wrapped up and ready to go. Oh, but we have other ideas, too. Fabulous lotions and perfumes, new totes, pillows, candles, cards, jewelry, champagne glasses... and my favorite, our new bike baskets (which you could fill with a nice selection of other goodies). Take a look at some of the pictures for a little taste of what we have (more coming in daily). We'll wrap it up for free, and you'll be a hero. Cheers!

New totes for travel and everyday

It's all beautiful

Cruising weather is coming!

You can't go wrong with our fun jewelry

Just add photos to the locket: great gift

One of our favorite handcreams, back in stock

Hand-carved Mary to watch over you

Cute and funky recycled metal animals

Chunky necklaces

Gorgeous perfume bottles

French script Scotty and pillows

Tea for one in a great box (one of Oprah's picks)

Tiramani perfume, lotion, talc – so citrusy and fresh

LOVE these winter white pillows created by two local artists

'Nuff said

More notes from market: styles and trends

2012-01-24T13:39:00.000-08:00

Here are some random observations I made while at market last week, during my whirlwind buying trip for Pomegranate.

First, I love to complain about the "junk." Junk meaning cutsie, stupid, meaningless, purposeless products that, when given as gifts, often end up in the garage sale/white elephant gift pile. I'm talking about talking, wiggling moose heads. Baskets with tutus and chicken head handles. Clown lamps. Lamps with plastic dolphins leaping into the air. Dr. Seuss-style santa heads exploding out of a cookie jar. Mermaid figurines holding pink plastic purses (also mermen figures – they do exist). Resin teddy bears with goofy 'inspirational' signs in their little paws. Oh, there's no end to the tragic display of useless objects (ahh, I wish I had pictures to prove it).

But, I have to say there was far less junk at this market: perhaps the times have dictated what will fall out of the edges of the retail world. Good news is, there were many more products that had a green attitude, that were well-designed, clever and beautiful. There were more small manufacturers and artisan companies that are making their products right here in the USA or Canada. I was really impressed with all these innovators and entrepreneurs, and judging by how crowded some of these booths were, other buyers were just as wowed.

There was some absolutely beautiful furniture at this market. We don't have the room to show much furniture at the shop (especially upholstered pieces), but that didn't stop me from observing and drooling over some of it. There was such a simplicity and naturalness to a lot of it. Great designs, less traditional and more modern shapes, mixed with rustic, organic and industrial design. My favorite design aesthetic is modern mixed with vintage, and so many of the offerings were right on target. It's kind of a Belgian/French takeover of the design world. If you've seen the work of Belgian designer Axel Vervoordt, you'll recognize the look. But it can go too far, too. There was lots and lots of burlap everywhere, which I like in small doses. Not so much as upholstery on a chair: it's scratchy! Give me a gorgeous linen (or burlap's softer cousin, jute) over burlap any day.

I also am a big fan of orange, and am so happy to see more of it. Tangerine is Pantone's color of the year, so expect to see it in little pops of color. Orange is a happy color, indoors and out. You might not want an entire sofa done in it (unless you're a daring Italian designer), but some pillows, or little accents here and there are so much fun. And, there are so many variations on orange. I love love love that soft, saffrony color you see in silk saris (in fact, that's exactly what I'm going to use to make new window coverings at home). Imagine some bright tangerine butterfly sling chairs in the garden (let's time travel to the 60s); what a fun contrast to the greenery. I'm bringing in my little orange fix via lanterns and artwork, totes, etc.

Other strong color statements were yellow, aqua, and magenta. And white. White is still classic and clean and goes everywhere. Navy is making a comeback, too, and not just for the Ralph Lauren crowd. We forgot about navy for so long. Did we get tired of it? Don't know what happened, but navy looks great with yellow, gray, and yes, tangerine.

The animal print thing will not subside. I saw even more products covered in faux leopard, and I still don't get it. Really cute on a pair of reading glasses. Not so charming all over a chair or on a big carpet-bag style tote. Maybe it's just me, but all I can think of when I see these prints is Siegfried and Roy.

The bird theme is still going strong, and I'm so glad for that. I've always loved the look, trend or not, and what I found in it feels timeless. Owls were another big icon everywhere, and I do love them, but don't want to go overboard with it. Funny how that was such a big thing in the 70s, and it's made full circle. My grandmother had all sorts of owl "things" everywhere. Sculptures, candles, prints. Wish I had some of it now, because all of a sudden, it's vintage and cool.

The city of London was another big theme this season Was it the royal wedding that sparked our interest, or the bold, graphic iconography of the Union Jack that has everyone in love? Not sure, but again, a little goes a long way. One pillow tossed onto your family room sofa is probably enough. Pull it together with a knitted red or navy throw, and stop right there.

One final note, on hotel silver. If you've been to our shop, you know that's one of our little passions, and we are constantly on the lookout for it. We just love the simple lines, beautiful patina, and rich, romantic history these pieces represent. At market I saw a lot of reproductions (another 'trend' I suppose), and honestly, they can't hold a candle to the real thing. Some of the new products were pretty cute, but I didn't order, preferring to bring in our authentic vintage finds (even if sometimes we can't source enough of it). We'll keep looking, and so will our trusty scouts. We'll always have something interesting and unique for you!

Greetings from Atlanta: notes from market

2012-01-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

Just returned from Atlanta, home to one of the planet's largest gift/home, accessory/fashion markets. Large as in seven million square feet – three skyscrapers full of merchandise to choose from with a mind-boggling array of "stuff," from exquisite to hideous. The place was absolutely packed with product and people. It made me realize that claustrophobia could suddenly present itself later in life, as I occasionally gasped for air and fled showrooms that had 500 buyers milling about. I am not kidding about the 500 people.

I love going to market, I really do. I adore finding fresh products and new lines for our shop, and I get excited as a kid about all those special finds and orders placed. My mind starts churning with ideas and thoughts on displays and events for the new year (and wondering where it's all going to fit). Sensory overload starts on day one of market, and you just go with it. It's all good: the visuals, the scents, the sounds (including interesting accents from every region in the US and beyond). The possibilities.

The other things that start on day one are hunger, sore feet, and frustration at getting lost in the maze. Constantly. It's a shopping marathon, and you have to dress (a) and eat (b) appropriately... and keep a compass handy.

(a) Be comfortable and wear layers, because it's cold outside and in the hallways, and warm (sometimes hot and muggy) inside the showrooms. Do not wear a big jacket, unless you want to spend 45 minutes morning and evening waiting in the coat check line. Suffer, or wear a light jacket you can roll up and carry all day. Girls: do not wear heels. Your dogs will be screaming in no time (and no one cares how chic you are – there are too many people to even notice).

(b) Eat breakfast, because it may be hours before you find another morsel. Stuff an apple and an energy bar in your bag for the same reason. The meager convention-food offerings are hard to find, and not always open, even at the peak of market (Chik-Fil-A should be considered emergency rations only). You may always eat lunch standing up, balancing your plate in one hand, as there are rarely places to sit down. Thank god for that one showroom that was serving the most delicious albondigas on Saturday night; I am now a meatball convert.

Oh, and be prepared to give up good coffee for a week. Just when you most need it. There are various coffee kiosks around, some even purporting to use Starbuck's coffee. Beware. You may get a bitter, watered-down version of your morning favorite, after waiting in line for, oh, 40 minutes. I would have killed for a good latté.

Now does this sound like I was unhappy with my experience? No, not at all! Just that I ran on empty for a week, end-capped by two loooong, sardine-packed flights (and on the way home, I nearly ended up in Missoula, having boarded the wrong plane – long story, ending in wanting to kiss the ground when I finally arrived in Redmond).

I saw amazing designs and so much talent and creativity. Some of the displays were absolutely breathtaking. One company had constructed a hanging, ten-foot tall bird cage out of reclaimed materials (metal, twigs, wood bits), wrapped it with chicken wire, and stitched burlap up around the base as the bottom of the cage. The birds inside were cooing and fluttering about. I stood for a minute and enjoyed the moment of peace and loveliness before rejoining the stream of buyers in the hallway.

Did I take photos of some of this wondrous and inspiring stuff? No, I did not. First of all, it is strictly verboten, unless the vendor gives you the okay for it (for instance, if you're taking shots of things you're ordering), yet everyone was snapping away anyway. Most were using their smart phones to do the deed. Which leads to the second reason for giving up on pictures: I am still hanging on to my dear old dinosaur flip phone, which doesn't really do the job very well. But I would have loved to have a photo of that hideously ugly, scary resin/plastic clown lamp, just to prove that bad taste is not dead.

Meanwhile, some of my finds are already shipping and due to arrive any minute. Bike baskets (so cute! arriving tomorrow!). Teapots, vases, planters, ribbon, jewelry, tea towels... It's very exciting to have some new product coming in to start the new year off right, and transform the shop once again. Stay tuned for more on market, including my take on some of the noteworthy trends in design.

Adorable bike baskets for your cruiser... spring is coming soon!

Necessary accoutrements for New Year's eve (even if it's just you & the dog)

2011-12-30T11:05:00.000-08:00

The champagne is chilling, December 31's dinner planned (we always have a crab feast on new year's, but worried we may not be able to find it this year!), or maybe you're off to a party. Perhaps just a pajama party, at home, watching the telly on east coast time. It's all good.

But you need some additions to whatever you're doing. Our new shipment of party goodies from Tops Malibu (cool little company in Eugene: they make everything right there and employ a lot of locals) is just in, and going fast. Sparklers (the good kind, that don't sputter and spit and send sparks – these really produce a sparkle and are safe indoors), confetti pops, wish papers and capsules, and our personal favorites: the Poof Balls. They're like pea shooters with safe, paper balls that you shoot across the room at your best friend or spouse. Won't hurt anything, and safe for dogs and kids if they get the notion to try and eat one. Give one to Grandma and watch the party ramp up...

Ahhh, new shipment of fab champagne flutes just in, too. Can't have too many nice ones; I love to mix ours all up so everyone gets a different style.

Pomegranate is open today until 5:30; tomorrow (12/31) from 10:30-4pm. Happy new year!

Christmas Girl

2011-12-27T19:35:00.000-08:00

I just love this shot of our Mollie girl on Christmas, 2011. She very patiently put up with the snazzy necklace and endured a holiday party involving lots of people, other dogs, and... the highlight of her evening... an unsuspecting cat (who may now be permanently emotionally scarred by the barking). Mollie is our Pomegranate Principessa, now 14 or so. We don't know exactly, because she was a dear little rescue dog when we got her at approximately one year old. And she's been our wonderful girl and perfect shop dog all this time.

The first day she came to the shop, we showed her the curb and waved our hands around and said "no street, no street," (would César would approve of our techniques?) and she seemed to understand that she could chase the occasional truck-with-dog-in-back along the lawn, and make a skidding dead stop at the curb, never going into the street. Yeah, that first day in the car with her: I had just taken her to the vet for a checkup (she was skinny, starving, and totally aggravated by flea bites), and she sat next to me, put her paw on my shoulder, and looked at me with those spaniel/border collie eyes, and I was a complete goner. Love at first sight? Of course!

She's entertained kids and husbands for years at Pomegranate (while moms and wives shopped) by catching pinecones in a gravity-defying twist. These days, she's mostly at home because it's getting more difficult for her to travel to the shop and get around in general, but we try to bring her on more quiet days. Maybe she'll make an appearance on New Year's eve day...

No rush: you still have two full days to shop... and we're full of fun things for the girls, the guys, the kids, the house... and the hostess.

2011-12-22T21:42:00.000-08:00

Tiramani is back: citrusy, fresh, and just lovely (perfume, lotion and new talc in stock)

New shipment of Tokyo Milk – yes, "Dead Sexy" included

Just off the press: lovely desk calendars from artist Greg Johnson

Some of Greg's collage work shown inside the calendar

I declare 2012 the year of champagne; start with these fabulous flutes. Set of four, each with different stylized botanical designs in silver.

Just put out about 3 dozen more pieces of our Parisian jewelry, including this sweet owl necklace

Piles 'o cotton napkins with a simple Greek key design. Mix & match: a simple way to dress up your dinner table.

Heavy glass Paris paperweight in gorgeous box

For the scotch lover in your family: The Glencairn glass is perfectly designed for your sipping pleasure. Found the best ice cube trays for these (makes big fat square cubes) at Ginger's in the Old Mill. Add a bottle, and voilà – perfect guy gift (and we know how hard it is to find something good for guys)

Heavenly candles from Voluspa (also Mixture, Archipelago, The Thymes...). Boxed, in heavy glass, or in tins.

What a crazy fun season this has been! We managed to pack our little shop to the hilt, and are in constant motion replenishing or flipping displays when things are gone. Shipments keep coming (even tomorrow, the day before Christmas Eve, we've got some fab new items coming in), and we keep shifting everything to make room. We'll rest next year. Meanwhile, here are just a few pictures of some of our newly-arrived favorites (if you were here for our open house just a few weeks ago, you didn't see any of this). We'll wrap it all up for you (for free!) and you'll be a hero... Open Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-5ish (translation: if y'all are still shopping, we'll stay open; if not, we're closing a little early and heading home to pop open a nice cold bottle of champagne).

DIY and green decorating on a budget – article in the "Bulletin"

2011-12-15T23:13:00.000-08:00

Last week we were part of a fun article on Christmas decorating on a budget: check it out here if you didn't get a chance to see it. Haven Home and Pomegranate teamed up to help writer Penny Nakamura pull together a very Christmasy great room... using our creativity to come up with inexpensive and green inspirations for decorating. We had a blast doing it; hope you can use some of the design ideas we came up with for this fun challenge!

Frasier Fir, our favorite holiday scent: now fully stocked up

2011-12-15T09:13:00.000-08:00

Some holiday scents are just so annoying, don't you think? Like that faux cinnamon spray they put on faux pinecones. Please. I'm a little sensitive to that stuff.

But there is one scent that really sends me, that is really pure and makes your house smell fabulous in winter: Frasier Fir by The Thymes. If you want instant holiday cheer, this is it. Yesterday we got another shipment in, and we are fully loaded, from candles and diffusers, to their adorable round soaps and pinecone soap dish... to dish soap and counter spray, if you really want to infuse your house with this gorgeous winter scent. And, it all makes for great hostess gifts.

Make your kitchen smell great with Frasier Fir all-purpose spray and concentrated dishsoap

Fab soap in a cute little bag; pair it with the pinecone soapdish

Lots of new stock, including the new Frasier Fir paper sachet

Right now we're running a holiday special on all our lovely candles: spend $20 or more on any of our candles, and get a sweet little gift to take with you!

Woof! An awesome result from Pomegranate's annual Holiday Soirée and Fundraiser

2011-12-14T20:19:00.000-08:00

The ice bar at the end of the night. Everything gone; still pretty

Have to say, it's been a really fun December at Pomegranate, starting with our annual Holiday Soirée and Day of Giving Back on December 3. That's the day we put on our fancy pants (so to speak: someone was so busy she never managed to put on a bit of makeup, or eat lunch or drink water until reminded to do so late in the day) and fill the shop with nibbles, libations, good music, tons of great holiday merchandise and decorating. Oh yes, we set up an ice bar outside and serve martinis. Real cocktails in real glasses (until we run out of glassware). And this year, we even had live music, thanks to our buddy and most excellent guitarist Bill Hayes, who played for hours and entertained everyone out in our little cottage. Perhaps best of all, this event is also a fund-raiser, as we always donate 10% of the day's sales to charity. This year, our recipient was The Humane Society of Central Oregon (specially picked by Mollie, our sweet old rescue dog). Over the years we've supported Saving Grace, Family Access Network, The Sparrow Club, Assistance League, Partners in Care... and many others.

It's pretty simple. The more we bring in, the more we can donate to our charity. The past couple of years have been okay, but not outstanding, as one can imagine. {And, you have to take into account the smallish size of our shop and total possible capacity, which I think we hit at about 5pm that day.} But this year, we blew the roof off our goals, and were able to write a check for $750 to the Humane Society. That's pretty darn good for us in our teeny shop, and we're very happy with the outcome... We were really delighted to see so many of our dear customers, who came flooding in to buy gifts and goodies. We rented 100 martini glasses and blew through those right away; had to move to the plastic glasses, until we ran out of those, too. We may have served 160+ cocktails (real ones, mind you: Robert is a good bartender and doesn't skimp on the vodka). Add multiple bottles of champagne, lots of nibbles, and plenty of good cheer. It was a darn good day, and a great kickoff to a joyous and busy season for us. Thanks everybody, for remembering us and coming out to our little hidden location to partake in this fun day!

I finally took a photo of the ice bar at the end of the evening, when everything (and everybody) was gone. We always get our ice from Cascade Ice. They deliver it, and it's beautiful and clear. We have a little stand/table it fits on; line it with white felt and led lights and it's a magical place from which to serve drinks. This year one big block did it; Robert crushed the inner edge of the block and added more crushed ice as a bed for the bottles and shaker... and it really looked like a little glacier. This was definitely my favorite design from all our years throwing this party. {Although some customers would say the year we designed a luge was the best, but I had to put my foot down: we are never doing that again – don't even ask.} Our Pometini recipe is on our website (pomegranate-home.com), and we're happy to share ideas with you if you want to set up an outside bar for a party. It's easy, really. All you need is someone crazy enough to stand out in the cold and shake up a bunch of cocktails.

Oh, the best part of this story: The Humane Society gave us a poster board with pictures of current pets looking for homes, and a couple who attended our soirée saw a picture of a sweet dog, and went out the next day and adopted her. Yay! We're so happy to have done a little bit to help facilitate this new happy placement. I myself was kind of smitten with a little guy named Peanut, but knew Mollie would not be happy at all with a new roommate...

Holiday Soirée (and day of giving back) tomorrow. Woof!

2011-12-02T08:11:00.000-08:00

Today we're dashing around, getting ready for tomorrow's annual Holiday Open House, Soirée, and Day of Giving Back at Pomegranate. Come join us for nibbles and libations, treats, specials, and a store full of great things for the holidays. And, we will donate ten percent of all sales to charity: this year, our recipient is The Humane Society of Central Oregon. Our dear little Mollie girl (senior citizen shopdog extraordinaire, who was a rescue dog herself) requested this one herself. {Mollie is still with us, but unable to attend the soirée – too much activity for her.}

Here's what we're doing: open at 11, when we'll have little cinnamon roll treats, champs, and hot spiced cider for you while you look around. For the first ten people who spend $50 or more, we have a gift of a wonderful Mary Lake Thompson tea towel ($10.95 value). We'll keep the goodies, the food, the drinks and the cheer going all day.... the soirée part starts at 4pm, with Robert's famous Pometinis from the ice bar (oh yeah, in martini glasses, no plastic cups for us... unless we run out of glasses), live music (by fabulous guitarist Bill Hayes), more nibbles and general merriment.

And did I mention the store is absolutely packed with new finds? I'm afraid more is coming in today, and the elves and I are going to be crazed, looking for homes for it all.

My little obsession for holiday tables

2011-11-30T19:27:00.000-08:00

Here's my little pet idea for a cool holiday table setting this year: mixed up, random, vintage silver candle holders all jumbled together on the table (perhaps on top of a runner or mirror tile, with some simple greens wound throughout). I'm talking about the ones everyone got (always in pairs) as wedding gifts in the 50s and 60s. Those days, you would make a very formal setting by setting matching candlesticks at each end of the table. I like to see them in all different heights, just onesies (in odd numbers), in an asymmetrical arrangement, all with the same color taper (probably white). We've been searching for them for some time, and are bringing out all our finds to fill the shelves (all sold individually, of course). You might also find them at the back of gram's linen closet, or if you're very lucky, at a thrift store. I did not manage to take a good picture, but will try to do so as we put more out. I usually don't have a lot of time during the holidays to perfect our own house (too busy at the shop), so I love having things I can throw together quickly. It's called last-minute panic decorating.

Small Business Saturday today: you can leave the pepper spray at home.

2011-11-26T10:00:00.000-08:00

Reading the ridiculous stories in the paper this morning about Black Friday antics, including the woman in LA who pepper sprayed the lunging, crazed crowd around her so she could be first to grab an X-Box. I'm imagining her on Christmas morning, when Junior rips open the package. "Honey, in the Christmas spirit, mommy had to seriously injure 20 people to get you this gift – have fun!"

Today is the antidote to the madness, when you can shop and have fun at small, local stores. Find unique merchandise, enjoy your adventure (people actually have fun at getting pushed and jabbed in the big box stores...at midnight??), and support small businesses in your community.

Today at Pomegranate, not only are we serving up fabulous gifts and holiday décor, we're ready for you with hot spiced cider or eggnog (with a little spike if you wish!). Tomorrow: we open the champagne for your shopping pleasure. Open daily: Mon-Sat 10:30-5, Sunday 11-4 (official hours, but quite often we're there earlier and later than posted). Oh, and no Christmas music yet: we don't want you getting sick of it this early...

A sleighful (or is it an avalanche?) of holiday goodies and gifts

2011-11-16T19:01:00.000-08:00

We've been unpacking boxes of holiday cheer for weeks. Still tripping over stuff, and still expecting quite a few more arrivals, from wonderful décor to perfect gifts, all with that certain Pomegranate je ne sais quois. Here's just a wee preview of some of our offerings: just have to stop by to see it all. Open Monday-Saturday from 10:30-5 (or later); open Sundays from 11-4 starting on November 27. Have no idea where we are? Slightly off the beaten path, just across the street from the north side of Macy's. Have no idea who we are? A cute little shop with wonderful hand-picked items from vintage to new, home décor, accessories, gifts... free gift wrap, personal service, hot spiced cider, and this time of year, if the mood hits us, eggnog (spiked with a little something if you wish).

Wildfire: our favorite pottery show of the year (this weekend!)

2011-11-05T12:33:00.001-07:00

Head over to Highland Elementary (on Newport) today and tomorrow to view (and buy!) pottery at the annual Wildfire Pottery Showcase from some of the area's most talented potters (an amazing array of artists we have here, yes?). The demonstrations are always fun, and there are always great pieces to see and covet. We'll be there tomorrow...

spooooky cocktail party... all halloween goodies on sale, today

2011-10-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

Halloween open house today at Pomegranate with treats (no tricks), all halloween half off (some fun stuff left!), hot spiced cider, tidbits to eat... and from 4-6, spooky, creepy (but really good) cocktails served by resident mad scientist Roberto. Or wine, should you be afraid of a little shot of Newt Brain. Heh. Mollie is here, dressed in her super-dog cape (but not part of our half off sale!).

Hope to see you; swing by this afternoon (or anytime before 6ish) to enjoy a little something something, stock up on halloween goodies for your own parties, and have fun.

Doll parts for fab [and cheap] Halloween decorations

2011-10-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

As a child, I was kind to my dolls, maybe because I didn't have too many of them (Barbie was outlawed in our house). Some of my friends viciously cut their doll's hair, or dyed it, or twisted their legs, or borrowed mom's makeup to paint up a ghoulish face. I admit to participating in some of these gory reconstructions, and maybe that's why I love using doll parts now as part of our Halloween decorations.

All year we've been on the lookout for vintage doll parts and bits we could use to hang in little trees (some made with gnarly branches and twigs stuck into a plaster of paris-filled container) or from chandeliers, or partially bury in bowls or boxes. Some we found on eBay; some at garage sales or thrift stores. The crustier and ickier the better. My favorites are the truly old porcelain parts. Some of those have wire loops (arms and legs, usually) that you can simply tie a bit of ribbon to for an instant halloween "ornament." For some others, I filled bowls and a couple of cubbyhole-type display boxes with black and white sand (easily found at craft stores if you don't have a beach in your neighborhood), and simply stuck miscellaneous arms, legs, hands into it. The more askew the better.

The tiny porcelain parts are great for decorating desserts, too. How about a little arm shooting up out of your chocolate frosted cupcake? Bwaaaa hhaa hahh. Just make sure no one thinks they're made out of candy.

Lastly (or not), I had a fun idea for some of the goofy plastic doll heads we found. Bought a bunch of cheap black frames (mostly 4x6, 5x7) at garage sales and the dollar store, knocked out the innards, and hung a plastic doll head (or foot, or shoe) from ribbon in the center of the frame, like a little ghouly portrait. I simply (and here comes the part I missed as a child) poked a little hole through the head (or whatever part was handy) with an ice pick, pushed some black ribbon through, and tied it at the top of the frame. Add another long loop of ribbon to the frame, and hang from the ceiling (or deep window frame or fireplace) with little tacks.

More cheap and creepy makings for Halloween

2011-10-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here are my very easy to make creepy dollies to hang on trees or around the house (how charming!) for Halloween. From one of the dollar stores I found baby dolls to repurpose. First, I clothed them in 8" wide strips of muslin, cut long (about 2', depending on size of doll). Fold over in half, cut a round hole to put over their heads, fasten around the waist with a piece of black ribbon, then shred the bottom 'skirt' with scissors. With cheap halloween makeup ( you could probably do the same with crayons) we then added scars and dirt and red marks to their sweet little faces... From their ribbons, they hang quite nicely on tree branches, shepard's hooks, doorknobs. Total cost: about $1.50 each.

Cheap tricks for Halloween

2011-10-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

We love Halloween. It's the one time of year you can be totally goofy and crazy without too much embarrassment. We're having fun at the shop putting together some of our stupid and irreverent ideas for Halloween décor. And on a side note, we moved earlier this year, to a neighborhood that has tons of kids who apparently go all out for trick or treating. Oh yeah, we're ready! I've already bought bags and bags of candy and teeny play-doh containers to give out, and every morning over breakfast we discuss what other funky, scary, fun thing we can do to the front yard for the big day.

So, thought I'd share a few things we've been working on (all sourced very inexpensively). We've been collecting old, broken dolls and doll parts for the better part of the year. Some you can get on eBay (better start now!), and some you can find in thrift stores, garage sales and the dollar stores. The point is to rip them apart and use the pieces to make new halloween art. Wheeee. For the creepy lantern shown above, I used a lantern we sell at Pomegranate (actually quite lovely with a nice candle in it), pulled the extremities off of a plastic doll, put a battery-operated tea light in her belly, and tucked her inside. She'll hang from a shepard's hook in the front yard, helping to light the way for the little goblins. More ideas to come... or stop by the store to see our collection of creepy doll parts and how we're making new uses for them.

Queen of Cardboard

2011-10-05T15:56:00.000-07:00

Queen of Cardboard: my new title, new f/t job... breaking down and recycling the bazillion boxes that have been arriving daily at Pomegranate. It's all good, though. Boxes mean new goodies, and new goodies mean happy customers. I think the recycling guy isn't all that pleased with us, though: he just delivered two more rolling carts so that we can try to tame the weekly mountain of stuff.

The shop feels really, really full right now; can barely squidge one more thing in there... yet somehow we always find space. New arrivals we love: chocolate candles (pillars and soy in glass) from Chocolate Flower Farm on Whidbey Island (exquisite! and I normally don't like food-scented candles, but these are really pure and smell like they should be edible), french/sea/hawaiian salts and wonderful little salt dishes (from simple wood bowls to pewter birds and mini french tagines), Voluspa and Archipelago candles and diffusers, Lollia hand creams and new shower gels, books, books, books (love the Snark Handbook; almost sold out but will get more), sumptuous velvet pumpkins, chic shopping totes (Eden bags actually made out of recycled water bottles), Halloween, more Halloween, serving dishes, trays, jewelry, cards, glassware, notepads, vases, frames, crazy cute plush animals for kids...

Come by this Saturday, October 8 for our Fall Open House, with treats and libations, goodies and tastings, from 12-5 at Pomegranate! The Queen of Cardboard awaits your arrival.

Back from the land of pomegranates

2011-09-30T09:29:00.000-07:00

Just back from a quick trip to Chico, land of pomegranates (and almonds, walnuts, peaches, kiwis, tomatoes, palm trees, roses, grapes, olives, persimmons, rice...). The place is simply lush with flora. Between the rich, loamy soil, high water table, and endless days of sun, things grow as if in a Mediterranean paradise. Couldn't believe the towers of tomatoes, profusion of fresh flowers, rows of zucchini and pumpkins... while back in Bend, we're still babying our little handful of Early Girl tomatoes (oh, the irony), hoping for a couple of sandwiches made with them. Sigh. From mom's sweet ranch in Chico comes the name of our shop, because early on, we were always cutting great armfuls of branches loaded with baby pomegranates to bring back to Bend to the shop. This trip was no different; we filled the back of the truck with branches filled with tiny green to just-pink pomegranates (my favorite time of year). Now they're all over the store, and so sweet.

You should come see them, and all our 'new' stuff, from market finds (just arrived; many boxes) to vintage goodies we gleaned along the way. Some of the vintage will come out tomorrow (Oct. 1); the rest to follow next week. The only problem is finding room for everything; it is truly packed at the moment... using every square inch for display. As one of our customers said today (in a good way): "You guys are out of control in here!"

A little taste of our French Flea Market: last one of the season is on Saturday

2011-09-08T10:46:00.001-07:00

I cannot wait for this Saturday's French Flea Market at Pomegranate. It's the last of the season (how did that happen so quickly?) and promises to be a fabulous market. We have some of our favorite vendors coming, as well as some brand new vendors, bringing loads of antiques and vintage goodies, wonderful hand-crafted items, garden art and lovely florals. Prices are always great! They'll be all set up in our gardens at Pomegranate on Saturday, from 10-4. The shop is open until 5, and we're full of new fall arrivals inside. Although some vendors can accept credit cards, it's best to bring cash. I suggest running shoes, a big tote (along the lines of those big IKEA bags) for all your finds, and a pocket filled with plenty of mad money (although I guarantee you'll find some cool stuff for under $20).

Above are some pictures from our last market, just to give you a taste of all the wonderful things you might find. Okay, I'm really mad at myself for not buying that faaaaabulous poodle portrait from the 60's. Mr. Beau Geste must have been one pampered boy.

We're in the historic farmhouse buildings just across the street from the north end of Macy's, on River Mall Avenue. Oh, here's another important tip when you shop the market: park across the street in the lot! Not along our narrow little roadway: last time the police showed up and issued warnings to those parked precariously. Not good.

See you Saturday! Go to www.pomegranate-home.com for more info and directions.

pix from the french flea market - today!

2011-08-27T10:16:00.000-07:00

so many cute things, right now at the French Flea Market at Pomegranate... lots of folks descending upon us at this moment, so get yourself down here asap -- it's really a great one. happy happy happy!

French Flea Market Saturday

2011-08-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

Ah yes, another fabulous French Flea Market is scheduled for Saturday, August 27, from 10-4 in the gardens at Pomegranate. Tomorrow! I, for one, cannot wait. We have so many great vendors coming in for this one, bringing loads of vintage stuff, from furniture to smalls and toys. There's garden art (love the giant cement leaves cast from rhubarb and blown glass birds and birdbaths), handcrafted totes and aprons made from vintage french linens, jewelry (both vintage and new). Beachy chic, primitives, objets d'art...

If you're looking for some unique pieces of furniture, or are just a thriftoholic, collector, or incurable hunter/gatherer, make sure you stop by tomorrow. Oh, and the shop is absolutely packed with new finds, both vintage and new. So packed, we're having a sale! Grab your mad money and put on your shopping shoes, because the French Flea Market awaits. See you Saturday. Park across the street; it's going to be a madhouse. We're at 120 River Mall Avenue, in the historic farmhouse buildings across from the north side of macy's (on the way to Sun Mountain Fun Center).

An amusing little story about our French Flea Market (which is tomorrow, by the way)

2011-08-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

The other day my favorite French family was visiting the store (true, there may be only one French family in Bend, but still, they're my favorites). As I was wrapping their gift purchases, their little boy (who I first met when he was a baby in a stroller) was looking around and saw our sign for the upcoming French Flea Market {Saturday, August 6, from 10-4}. With a quizzical look on his face, he asked, "I don't get it: why would anyone want to buy French fleas?"

Good one! I'm still having fits of laughter over that. Why indeed?

Hopefully we won't be selling any fleas, French or otherwise. We just started calling our markets the French Flea because it is like a good French flea market: so many great finds and interesting objects and so much fun. Minus the Gitane smoke hanging over everything, minus the high prices (things at the Paris flea markets are so expensive these days!), minus the guys drinking Pastis in the corner and telling you everything they have is from the Napoleonic era.

Tomorrow we have a full load of vendors, coming from all over. There will be antiques and vintage, from old toys and glass to furniture, fashion, and objets d'art. We have three or four new vintage vendors signed up in addition to our perennial favorites – very exciting. Pam is coming with her gorgeous wreaths, hanging baskets and florals. We have a new garden art artist signed up, as well as some of our favorite jewelers and hip handcrafters (some of whom are coming over from the valley and beyond, just to do our show). Tess will be here again with her fab, funky furniture, and Michelle (of Michelle Loves Paris) has oodles (I mean oodles... under four tents) of fresh vintage and repurposed goodies. Tim will be back with his hand-crafted potting benches and garden pieces (I hope he brings more of those cool cedar folding screens for the garden).

Oh, and did I mention that our store is bursting at the seams with wonderful new arrivals, too?

And did I mention that the weather will be absolutely perfect tomorrow? You definitely want to get out and come do a little twirl-around. It all starts at 10, although you might want to show up a little early, if you wish (not too early or you'll be tripping over still-unopened boxes). The Flea goes until 4pm; shop is open until 5pm.

It's all at Pomegranate: 120 River Mall Avenue, between Shopko and Sun Mountain Fun Center (the kiddos can have tons of fun there while you shop the flea). See www.pomegranate-home.com for more info.

Bees and dragonflies: a pallet of glassware arrives at Pomegranate

2011-07-30T10:08:00.000-07:00

Our favorite bee and dragonfly glasses arrived yesterday, after their long journey on the slow boat from France. Some of us have been waiting for months for these. Buzz in quickly (heh), because they're going to go fast, and we have no guarantees that we can get them again anytime soon. If you are on our wish list for them, you probably got a phone call yesterday: we'll hold them for a week, unless you tell us differently. Except for just a few sizes, we are fully stocked! And remember, you get 10% off if you buy six or more of the same size.

Your garden rocks

2011-07-28T18:43:00.000-07:00

Your garden will rock with a few well-placed accessories. We don't recommend stuffing ornaments into every corner and gnomes under every rock, but try tucking in a few subtle touches here and there. An iron quail. A faux snail. A rocking bench. A bird feeder you can stake into the ground (perhaps outsmarting the squirrels?). St. Francis hiding in the lavender. Most of this is available right now at Pomegranate... a new load of garden accoutrements just arrived, and we'd love to help you choose the right pieces.

Signs of our times

2011-07-28T18:31:00.000-07:00

Love these box signs that hang or just prop up on a shelf (and the boxes and mugs that go with them). You might not want them all over the house, but a few strategically placed messages at home (or office) are really fun (and inexpensive). I love the one that starts "You are the macaroni to my cheese..."

Balmy evenings: a party in your garden every night with Soji solar lanterns

2011-07-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

Please don't snicker at the word "balmy." Warm summer evenings are coming, even in Bend, promise. Actually, I'm quite happy with the state of the weather here, right now. Imagine being stuck under that heat dome that's making its way east. Yuck! It gives me a headache just thinking about that kind of suffocating, humid heat. We haven't been able to eat dinner outdoors much here, but we will. And when we do, we're ready for you!

One of our favorite products we found at market is the Soji solar lantern collection. Yes, solar lanterns. No wires, plugs, extension cords. They have a neat little solar pad at the top of the lantern that collects sunlight during the day and powers the lantern for hours after the sun goes down. They're made of nylon and are designed for all weather (although we're going to put ours away for winter*). We took a few home to experiment with when we got our first shipment, and we just love them. We've let the sprinklers smack them and the wind whip them, and they're holding up very well. Individual lanterns come in either a round or elongated 'pod' shape, in white, yellow, orange, green, or blue. They have a wire loop that slides right over a branch or shepard's hook... or you can tie a piece of ribbon to the loop (or use an S hook) and then hang it from a branch. They would also look great hanging out from the wall on a hook. The round lanterns also have a flat base piece to allow them to sit on tables, but we've found that wind tends to send them rolling.

We also reordered the solar string lights in the multicolor pack, and they are stinkin' cute. You get ten lanterns per string, with enough space between lights to allow for a little swag, with a nice long lead to the little solar pad, which needs to be pointed towards the sun during the day. You can use one string to decorate a pergola, canopy or fence line... or (if your expense account allows), use multiple strings to create a little allée of lights, like a Provence marketplace in the evening (or like the outdoor dining areas on Belden Place in San Francisco).

We hung our string lights up under an outdoor umbrella (smaller white lanterns pictured), and Robert attached the solar pad to the outside of the canopy, totally out of view, for it to capture the sunlight. When the sun goes down, voilà, our lights come on. And as we so well know, the sun is going down a little earlier every day now. By next month, we'll be eating dinner at dusk in the glow of solar lanterns. In the balmy evenings.

{We just received a new shipment at Pomegranate the other day, so we're fully loaded on all the shapes and colors. Come choose your favorites while the selection is good!}

* A true winter story as relayed by one of our customers: she bought some Soji lanterns last year, somewhere else, and brought them back to her home in Minnesota (Michigan? Somewhere where winters are fierce). At some point before she could put them away for the season, one of the lanterns worked itself free and blew away in the wind. Winter snows arrived soon thereafter, and the neighborhood was covered in ice. One evening she was taking a walk, and saw a glow coming from underneath a snowdrift by the sidewalk. Yep, it was her lantern, which got just enough sun during the day – even buried under ice and snow – to light up at night. Keeps on ticking!

Sanity check: now closed on Sundays

2011-07-27T09:46:00.000-07:00

The reality of owning a small store is that you have to be there all the time. Every. Single. Day. And when you're not there, you're still working on something, unless you're blissfully free of websites, email, phones, spreadsheets, and a great big whiteboard covered with "to do" notes. Even if you have employees (which we don't), you're still tethered to it. {Not complaining, just saying, in case you're at work reading this and dreaming about opening up a shop... now is the moment to savor the gift of vacations, weekends, health care and regular paychecks.}

Anyway, last winter we realized this seven-days-a-week stuff was getting to us, and decided to close on Sundays just for spring. Have to say, it was really nice to have that one day to do whatever we wanted, even if it was work-related (like attacking the giant pile of boxes in the garage filled with popcorn). It anchored the week and gave it a beginning and an end, and we savored that feeling.

At the beginning of summer, we opened again for Sundays with the thought that some of our visitors would want to stop by on their way out of town (or locals who can't shop during the week), and that has happened to some extent, and for that we're grateful. But we're pooped. And we miss that one glorious day off. So we're doing something we've never done in our 13-year history: closing on Sundays midstream, starting now, this Sunday. I mean, we love you all, but yippee, hurray, and woo hoo for a day of rejuvenation.

Robert found a dirt-cheap bicycle for me at a garage sale, and I'm going to ride it. Yes, I am! Or I might sit in our sweet little garden and read a book. Heaven!! Any suggestions for easy, scenic hikes? That's on the forecast for us, too. Ahhh.

p.s. we're often at the shop earlier and later than our official hours of 10:30-5 Monday through Saturday, and are happy to stay open for you if you can't get there before 5pm. Just give us a call if you're on your way, and we'll wait! 541.383.3713.

French Flea Market this Saturday at Pomegranate

2011-07-07T16:22:00.001-07:00

We know it's a busy weekend: quilt show, downtown art festival, any number of athletic pursuits to pursue, etc. But you must stop by our wonderful flea market at Pomegranate this Saturday, from 10-4. We will be absolutely jammed with vendors (sold out, in fact) in our gardens. There will be lots of vintage and antique goods, hip hand-crafted artisan pieces, garden art, fabulous repurposed and upcycled objects, plus lavender and gorgeous hanging baskets. Grab your mad money (cash is best, of course, but some can take cards) and make a mad dash for Pomegranate on Saturday, July 9. Check back a few posts earlier for pictures of June's French Flea, or go to our website to see a fun little slideshow of previous markets. Allons, enfants!

Celebrating our 13th year in business

2011-06-25T07:32:00.000-07:00

It's our annual birthday party today at Pomegranate, in which we serve up delicious tidbits and libations, give away door prizes (two luscious baskets of soap and spa treats), and offer specials throughout the shop. If we remember the boules, we'll even have a little impromptu game of pétanque on the front lawn. We have lots of new arrivals – vintage and new – from this past week (some of which I'll likely still be putting out while you're wandering through).

Mostly, we're really thankful for all your support of our quirky little shop, and happy to have survived thus far (sometimes by the edge of our fingernails, but the lights are on, and someone is home!). We know it's a busy, busy weekend out there, between gardening, hiking, biking and Bite of Bend, but swing by if you can, have a delicious grilled kebab and a Pomegranate Sangria refresher (or, hmm, a little champagne?), give Mollie a pet (yes, our dear old girl is still with us) and take a look at all our wonderful new goodies. Pomegranate's lucky 13 Anniversary Party from noon-6 today at our slightly-off-the-beaten-path location, on River Mall Avenue, across the street from the north side of Macy's. In the historic farmhouse buildings...

Oh baby baby

2011-06-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

Just in: lusciously soft Little Giraffe baby blankets. The perfect gift for a new baby! In new colors and two sizes. Dreamy.

New garden goodies at Pomegranate

2011-06-22T20:08:00.000-07:00

Loving our new solar lanterns; no wires to wrangle... they soak up the sun during the day and turn on at dusk for about eight hours. Took a few home to experiment with, and just love them. We just got in the shoji style single lanterns in different colors, and the string lanterns in white. All nylon, all-weather (although we will certainly take them down for winter). We even let the sprinklers nail them to see what happens. Keeps on ticking, with a warm glow in the evening.

Combine those with our new garden art to add instant charm to your greenery. We met Madras artist Judy at Kitchen Kaleidoscope last weekend, and flipped for her iron garden stakes, from the sweet family of quail to the owls, snails and birds. She and her husband make everything in their studio, and they are just fabulous. Lots more arriving Thursday. By the way, we love nothing more than meeting a local artist whose work we can carry in our shop!

See you at Kitchen Kaleidoscope tomorrow

2011-06-17T08:27:00.000-07:00

Hope to see lots of you tomorrow, June 18, for Kitchen Kaleidoscope – a tour of seven great homes in North Rim and Northwest Crossing, with the emphasis on kitchen, of course. This is a fabulous event and fundraiser put on by one of our favorite groups: the Assistance League of Bend. At each home you'll see designers and florists featured in the kitchens, plus local restaurants, chefs and vendors offering up delicious tidbits and special things for sale. Yep, Pomegranate will be there too – we're setting up our little vendor booth in the gardens at the Ft. Clatsop house in Northwest Crossing. And, we'll have some special Kitchen Kaleidoscope offerings good for Saturday only at the tour (soaps and totes on sale!). So bring your girlfriends, bring your appetite, bring some cash (or checks... we can take credit cards, but it won't be easy), and have a great time. My only regret is that I won't have time to take the tour myself!

Kitchen Kaleidoscope goes from 10-3 on June 18. Advance tickets for this great fundraiser are $20 ($25 at the door); buy your tickets today at Ginger's (Old Mill), Kitchen Complements (downtown), or M. Jacobs in the Bend River Mall.

Pomegranate will also be open on Saturday for our regular hours of 10:30-5, and Robert hopes to see you there... lots of new merchandise arrived this week!

Papa might want one of these...

2011-06-16T07:55:00.000-07:00

A few new arrivals at Pomegranate for dad: flasks of several sizes, great for travel, golf, events, concerts... (these are really nicely done). Special soaps, like citrus/black tea or our favorite sandalwood (plenty back in stock now), or hey – soap on a rope (in verbena or milk)! Or how about a boat? Think of the fun you could all have together with this neato vintage boat we have for sale! It's parked at the shop; come on by to take a look. We have the cards, too. Pancake breakfast? You're on your own...

French Flea Market pix from Pomegranate, Part Deux

2011-06-14T08:00:00.001-07:00

Are you weeping? Because you couldn't come to our June 11 flea market? Never fear: the next one is scheduled for July 9. We've planned five fleas this summer... go to www.pomegranate-home.com for a complete schedule.

Pictures from our 6/11/11 French Flea Market – Part Un

2011-06-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

Saturday's French Flea Market: how sweet it was! So many good things. Amazing prices, and fabulous vendors. Wow, was it fun. I took hundreds of pictures, and about 75 of them were worth sharing, so I'm not even going to edit that down... it will take a couple of posts, no doubt. Our next market is scheduled for Saturday, July 9, from 10-4. Come by and pick up our events postcard in the shop, so you don't miss a thing.

French Flea Market – this Saturday!

2011-06-08T09:04:00.001-07:00

Okay, are you ready with your mad money and your garden hat? Because Pomegranate's first French Flea Market of the summer is coming this Saturday, June 11... and it will be gloriously, perfectly sunny. Promise. It's going to be a fabulous market, friends. We have so many great vendors, some new, some perennial favorites... all of whom have so many great finds. Our hand-picked vendors are coming from all over: not only artists and antique/vintage dealers and collectors from Bend, but also from the valley, Portland, Idaho, Washington. It might just be our biggest – and best – French Flea ever. Prices are always great and the finds are amazing. It's on from 10-4 on Saturday, in the gardens at Pomegranate. And hey, the shop is full of new arrivals, too. Stop by and pick up our calendar postcard so you don't miss any of our events.

See you there!

"Antiques Roadshow" blues: how PBS inadvertently created a little capitalistic kingdom

2011-06-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

{We wanted to meet this guy, and see what kind of crazy pants he might be wearing.}

If you've been in our shop, you know we adore antiques and vintage things, from the oddball to the beautiful. And we love watching Antiques Roadshow. So when Roadshow announced they were doing a segment in Eugene, I signed up for tickets the minute they were available. All over it, I was! Figured if we couldn't get anyone to cover the store for a day or two, heck, we'd just close up and head over to Eugene and make a little mini-vacation of it (you know it's serious love when we'd do that, on a Saturday no less... not once in 13 years have we ever just closed the doors when we were supposed to be open). Here's how it works: for the June 4 taping, we applied back in March or April. Tickets are free, but there are not enough for everyone who wants to attend, so they hold a lottery and pick names randomly. You know about three weeks in advance whether or not you were picked for a pair of tickets. We were not.

Well, I thought. Maybe there are going to be tickets floating around out there – someone who was picked in the lottery but later decided they couldn't go. A kind soul who would pass them along to someone who really wanted to go. Right. This is what I found: scalpers and sharks on eBay! Who knew? People around the country apply for tickets no matter where the venue is (with no intention of attending), then auction them off on eBay if they get picked in the lottery. Poo. Mostly they were listed at around $250 for a pair of tickets, but seemed to sell (and they all sold) in the $100-$125 range. Wow. I'm crazy for it, but not that crazy.

So if you're going today, at least bring good stuff. Don't bore the appraisers with depression glass or a fake Stradivarius. Maybe we'll see you next spring on the TV episode.

Meanwhile, Pomegranate is open today. We are here! We are not going anywhere!

In this weather, hike or shop? You decide: we're open all weekend for you.

2011-05-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

Too bad it's not a teeny bit sunnier this weekend -- is that too much to ask? Well, you can always pop by and visit Pomegranate if your gardening plans are on hold. We're open on Sundays now for the summer (from 11-4), and open throughout the Memorial Day weekend. To top it off, we're having a great sale, now through Monday. We're still putting out lots of new arrivals from this week, from cards to soaps to fabulous graduation and wedding gifts.

My favorite graduation gift? Just in at Pomegranate: the funny, adorable (and at the same time, irritating) Clocky, the alarm clock on wheels that jumps off your nightstand and runs around your room making loud R2D2 sounds until you get out of bed and turn it off. Perfect for a college or job-bound graduate. Or if you just want to get your kid out of bed. With Clocky, you will never over sleep again, promise. We're fully stocked in black, chrome, aqua, and almond. Same price you'll find online, but without the shipping, and hey, we don't charge for gift wrap...

A fresh crop of vintage finds

2011-05-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

Just in: all manner of interesting and rare vintage objects, from beautiful old French transferware plates to my personal favorite (the Eberhard Faber pencil display rack from an old general store). I also love pedestal bowls and compotes of any sort, and found a cache of them in glass and hotel silver. Fill them with soaps, flowers, fruits, or collections (perhaps ice cream in the case of the hotel silver bowls): the elevation makes a great balance for any display or presentation. Oh yes. Little boxes (metal, wood), and a really sweet, original happy face lunchbox from the 70s (not pictured). Serving spoons, vintage cake servers... so many new treats to look at. Swing by soon. We're in the charming old farmhouse across from the north end of Macy's.

Champagne & treats for Mom, today at Pomegranate

2011-05-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

Mmmm, yes – we're serving champagne and sweet nibbles at Pomegranate today, and giving away a petite heart soap to all moms. It's going to be a fun day, and we have lots of fabulous and unique gifts ready to go. We'll wrap them up for you (for free, in our adorable gift bags) and you'll be a hero on Mother's Day. By the way, you don't have to be an actual mother to enjoy the day: you can be a go-to mom, a lend-an-ear mom, auntie-mom, puppy mom...

All you have to do is find us: in the funky little farmhouse on River Mall Avenue, across from the north end of Macy's. Open 10:30-5 today (or later, if everyone is still shopping and sipping). 541.383.3713.

Fresh picks at Pomegranate for Mother's Day

2011-05-02T19:59:00.000-07:00

The best part of Mother's Day at our shop? The kids who come in with dad to pick out a little something for mom... and hand us a pocketful of hard-earned quarters. Whatever you choose: a $3.50 French lavender heart soap -- or something more extravagant -- we'll wrap it beautifully and send you off with a perfect gift. Just a few pictures of recent arrivals... Pomegranate champagne cocktails on Saturday! All you have to do is find us (hidden away on River Mall Avenue, across the street from the north side of Macy's).

Easter treats: all half off at Pomegranate

2011-04-21T09:29:00.000-07:00

Fill up your baskets and set the table with our adorable Easter goodies, from crazy fuzzy chicks to felted hens and toadstools... all at half off today through Saturday at Pomegranate.

A little Passover story ... and why I like staying in the background

2011-04-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

Years ago, in another life (maybe on another planet?), I lived in San Francisco and loved to plan and design events. I was lucky enough to be able to do some of it as part of my corporate work life, and some on weekends for friends (parties, weddings, etc.). I love it all: thinking about the flow and look of the party, the music, the flowers, the food. Making everyone happy with the things they're eating (I'm such an Italian mama that way), with the setting, the special little details.

But if you do the planning, sometimes you're too spent to attend the actual party. Which is very bad form if it's for a friend. Think about one of those fashion shows where all the models come prancing out in these hot designs, and at the end of it, the designer pops out from behind the curtain for a second, waves, and disappears. And you can't believe how sort of frazzled or even dowdy the designer looks. Because they are frazzled from all the behind-the-scenes racing around. {And, they don't design clothes for themselves – they're designed for some sort of otherworldly race of tall, thin, perfect people.} Anyway, I identify with them because you can't spend hours running and schlepping and pinning things and putting out fires and then suddenly smooth yourself down and walk out all calm and collected.

One time my friend and neighbor Marcia asked me to help set up a Seder dinner for a Passover celebration she was planning. I happily agreed, and we spent the day setting up a gorgeous table with all the requisite special dishes and accoutrements. We made a place setting for Elijah, who would be a special guest indeed, if he came to dinner. So far, he has not attended, but by tradition a setting (and wine cup) is reserved for him, just in case. Towards the end of the dinner, someone (usually a child) gets up and opens the front door briefly to welcome him. But no one is there.

I was invited to join the Seder, but preferred to simply take part in the setup, and not be a bumbling guest who didn't know anyone (see additional reasons above). So Marcia came up with a brilliant idea: she would surreptitiously give me a call during dinner to let me know they were getting near the end of the meal, and I would run downstairs to her door and wait for the kids to open it. Yep, those kids shrieked and jumped about three feet when they opened the door and saw me there. The looks on their faces were priceless. And I got to join in on my first Passover Seder for one of the best parts of any dinner: dessert. And stories and conversation. I didn't sit in Elijah's place. Maybe he'll show up tonight on your doorstep!

When boutique products get Targetized... and our new line

2011-03-12T09:45:00.000-08:00

Long-time customers may have missed buying their Caldrea homekeeping products at Pomegranate these last few months, and we're sorry we didn't have it for you. But we faced a frustrating dilemma, and simply didn't know what to do about it.

Caldrea, if you haven't heard of them, makes natural cleaning products. They also own the Mrs. Meyers brand which is sold more widely in grocery stores and larger outlets. Caldrea was their specialty product that was sold through more "boutiquey" home stores like ours. We built up quite a following with it, because it's a good product. And we promoted it like crazy. Last fall we suddenly got a notice that Caldrea products were going to be sold at Target, starting the very next day. It took everyone by surprise, including – I believe – all the sales reps who sold to stores like ours. Obviously this move took months of planning and strategizing and redesigning the packaging and all that, so getting a letter like that when Target employees were already stocking their shelves was very discouraging.

And who wants to compete with Target? Of course the product costs less there. If it were only a matter of a dollar or two, that would be fine with me. But it's more than that. Caldrea lowered their prices quite a bit for Target to make it viable for them to sell; their price to us smaller accounts did not go down at all. Of course, they'll argue that it's a different "line" with a different formulation, but all I see is a simpler package in the Target version. At a price that is barely above our wholesale cost. {And I hope that by telling the truth like this, it doesn't send legions of you to Target – gulp – not the point at all, but I totally understand needing to save money, oh yes, I really do...}

So we dropped them. It was very painful, and for a long time I searched for a new line while struggling with what to tell customers who asked for it, and how to respond to those who cheerily said, "hey, you know you can get Caldrea at Target now??" Wheeee. Caldrea was one of our bread and butter lines, one of those constant sellers, that thing you get hooked on. I don't know: what would you do?

Well, that's the back story, short version.

The good news is, we finally found a replacement product that we really feel good about. It only took months of searching, but we just brought in the Thymes Mandarin Coriander line, and I have to say, I absolutely love it! Once in a while a scent really sends me, and the mandarin coriander just knocks it out of the park. It's a beautiful, all natural plant-based product with no fillers, no parabens, no bad stuff (all made in Minnesota). There's dish soap, all-purpose cleaner (for countertops, floors, etc.), hand soap and lotions, candle and room spray. First thing I did when our new order arrived was take home one of everything and use it, and I'm totally in love. It makes doing the dishes so pleasant with this wafting scent (and by the way, very effective, concentrated product); ditto for cleaning the counters. It's now my go-to hand cream (and if you've been in our shop, you know I have a lot to choose from).

We bought a bunch of little sample packs (in hand cream and dish soap) to give away to those of you who want to try it, so stop in and pick up a sample. We're totally stocked up in all the products: ready for the stampede. Heh.
See? Gorgeous packaging, too. Looks great in the kitchen, bathroom... Get the little sink set (hand wash & lotion) plus dish liquid for a fabulous housewarming gift!

Love candles... on sale at Pomegranate

2011-02-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

Delicious "love" and "xoxo" candles for your love, in our favorite red currant scent, packaged in a gorgeous box. Were $34, now just $20 {limited supply}. We have lots of fabulous valentine's goodies, from letterpressed cards to soaps, lotions, new jewelry, honey... we'll wrap it all up and make it look wonderful! Open Mon-Sat. 10:30-5. xoxo

Yip yip woof woof

2011-01-31T20:57:00.001-08:00

Our annual "Testers and Oddballs" sale is officially over, and thanks to our generous clientele, we raised $301 for the Humane Society. Here's how it works: we pull all our testers, onesies, oddballs, leftovers and put them all out on the front porch at the shop. Customers decide what they want, and how much they want to pay/donate into the honor jar ... and all of it goes to our chosen charity. Mollie (Pomegranate's shop dog extraordinaire) told us she wanted it to benefit the Humane Society, and so it goes. Boy, we put out some good stuff this time!

We are really happy with the results, and will deliver the moola to the Humane Society within a few days. Yip yip yippee.

What adornments are you wearing with your holiday fleece?

2010-12-18T09:35:00.000-08:00

'Tis the time of year to contemplate dressing up a bit more for all those soirees and holiday get-togethers (nevermind that we really just want to wear warm fleece from head to toe). At Pomegranate, we have the nicest collection ever of lovely jewelry to wear and to give this season. Good news is, everything is really reasonably priced. Pix aren't all that fabulous, but there are some really interesting, fun pieces in the shop (lots more arrived just yesterday). The little bird collection is über-adorable, simple and modern (also love the nest necklaces and earrings).

The pewter "love" sign (also available with the word "nest"), handmade in the US, is made by the same artist who does the birds. Not really for your neck, of course, but so sweet on the wall.

Does the snow hamper a good shopping day? Nah. We're tough!

Some of our favorite gifts for the kiddos

2010-12-17T08:12:00.000-08:00

We've revived our little attic room upstairs with new offerings for kids, and are having fun filling it with some of our favorite things. Little journals, books, bath squirties, wall decor, piggy banks, puzzles, and sweet, crazy plushie toys. The shark chalkboards just arrived (hey, might be good at the office, too?) Gnome banks (sold out right now) and gnome glasses are adorable. Flocked piggy banks for all those pennies. Great books (I love "Don't Lick the Dog" for little ones who are learning how to interact with dogs), butterfly garlands, fairy mobiles, French bingo, baby blankets... Great stocking stuffers: Japanese erasers, goldfish pencil sharpeners, and magnetic cable mobiles (for displaying photos and cards).

Kids are always invited to go upstairs and draw on our chalkboard table (sometimes I dash upstairs for something, and see the most amazing artwork on the table). One of these days I'll take some pictures...

Interesting, unique things for the kids? Find them at Pomegranate.

Serving cocktails in the frozen tundra and raising money for FAN: a soiree update

2010-12-16T21:33:00.000-08:00

Those of you who know us, know to look forward to our annual Holiday Cheer Soirée and Day of Giving Back. In which we serve about 100+ martinis from the ice bar, regale everyone with treats and gifts... and donate 10% of the day's revenues to a local charity. {Don't get all excited: that was on December 4, and we're just now posting this update.}

Happy to say we raised $440 for Family Access Network (FAN), which does so much for kids in need, and helps keep them in school. $400 of that was our donation of 10% of the day, so it was a good day, indeed. The other $40 was from customers who ponied up a bit more as they signed up for our four fabulous door prizes. Thanks to generous donations from some of our lovely vendors and reps (Olivina, Eye Candy, Archipelago, Rebecca C.), we were able to combine lots of fun items from the store to create four different treat packages: spa, lavender, wine, and pomegranate baskets. Our winners were Martha C., Sharon B., Janet T., and Sandi C. Yay!

Have to say, the Pometinis were deeelicious, as were the sweet/spicy nuts we make for these occasions. See our recipe section at www.pomegranate-home.com for details.

As usual, I didn't do much of a job with photography; once things started, we really got slammed, and I forgot all about it. But here are a few pictures of the setup, and the shop at night, which is just lovely in the snow.

Holiday Soiree coming up this Saturday at Pomegranate

2010-11-30T21:06:00.000-08:00

We're spending the week putting up lights and digging out our little firepit/hand warmer, stocking up on mulling spices and cider (not to mention vodka, pomegranate juice and all sorts of libations and treats), flipping the store around to accommodate all the new arrivals (I'm still covered with popcorn and price tags and bits of ribbon), and making sure we have enough gift bags and ribbon to make all your presents look great. Yep, it's almost here: our annual Holiday Open House and Soiree (and day of giving back). Come join us this Saturday, December 4, for treats, fun, great local shopping, door prizes, and Robert's infamous Pometinis. Open House begins at 11am; cocktail soiree from 5-7:30.

It's also our big day to give back to the community: 10% of the day's revenues always go to a local charity. This year, our recipient is Family Access Network (FAN), for all the great work they do in connecting families to needed resources, and keeping kids in school. That last bit is near and dear to my heart. So, we hope you come shop, and mingle, and have a treat and a cocktail if you wish. We have all kinds of wonderful new items arriving daily for the open house, and are putting together some fun door prizes. Oh, and you get a gift of a darling christmas votive with purchase of $20 or more (pictured above). The shop is magical at night with all our twinkly lights (and perhaps some snow?); if you've never seen it after dark, you're in for a treat.

Hope to see you Saturday. Time to have fun, celebrate, and shop for a cause!

Refresh your tired eyes with Eye Candy {best new stocking stuffer, too}

2010-11-30T09:59:00.000-08:00

Don't know about you, but this climate seems to make my eyes tired and dry and puffy all the time. Yech. Or maybe it's because my night owl tendencies make me stay up until the wee hours, working or reading or zooming the internet. To help us tired girls (and guys), here's the neatest new product we just brought in (such brainy entrepreneurs out there!): eye candy gel pads. Stick 'em in the refrigerator or freezer for a few minutes, then apply to closed eyes for an instant refresher. Reduces puffiness, cools and soothes, helps with headaches, too. Sure beats messy cucumber slices.

These are definitely going home with me. One set for the fridge; one set for my travel bag. These will be great for travel, as a matter of fact. I seem to always have a little reaction to new sheets/pillows when we stay at a hotel (maybe has to do with laundry products?). Maybe it's air conditioning, or dry air on planes. Whatever: my eyes are always puffy in the morning. Stick the eye candy pads in your ice bucket (or fridge, as long as you don't trip the mini-bar electronics!), and have a little spa moment.

It's a great girlfriend gift, stocking stuffer, addition to a nice little collection of french soaps and lotions...

Oh, and thanks to the girls at Eye Candy, we have a sweet package of spa goodies (with eye candy, of course) to give away as a door prize during our upcoming Open House & Soirée event this coming Saturday! More news soon.

We all need more toys: open today for your shopping pleasure

2010-11-28T10:45:00.000-08:00

Here's Mollie, the award-winning Pomegranate shop dog (and our sweetest girl ever) at home with just a few of her toys (her latest fave is the fat hedgehog from Bend Pet Express). She'll be at the shop today with us from 11-4. Until Christmas, we're open on Sundays, too: come shop, enjoy some hot spiced cider and cookies (or a mimosa!), let us wrap all your gifts for you (no charge), and see what's new. See you there!

Holiday arrivals

2010-11-19T11:56:00.000-08:00

So many new goodies in the shop, from ornaments and decor to gifts... and more arriving daily. We give you our expert opinions on gift-giving, and free gift wrap, too. Come see us!

Cocktail party tonight at our little shop of horrors

2010-10-29T09:48:00.000-07:00

Pomegranate's resident mad scientist/mixologist Robert found his lab coat and nerd glasses, and we're all set for tonight's fun little cocktail party at the shop, from 4-7. Stop by for a shot of Newt Brain (or glass of wine if you're feeling more civilized), treats, and scares (or laughs). Show up in costume and get a prize!

Take a stroll through the cemetery in the haunted garden (beware the swinging creatures), watch out for the spiders and rats in the cold and creepy ice house, and do a little shopping, too (in the warm and lovely main house, where we're previewing some of our newly-arrived holiday merchandise). All halloween treats are at least 50% off (some are 75% off!), and we have other great specials going on throughout the store for today only, including scarves and Baggallini totes at 20% off. Open 10:30-7 today.

Flipping the seasons: inside the shop

2010-10-28T09:24:00.000-07:00

Read in the paper this morning that major retailers are attempting to move the traditional "Black Friday" (day after Thanksgiving) to just before Halloween. Tomorrow? Yep, "black friday now!" is emblazoned on the cover of the Sear's ad circular.

Really? I don't think so.

I've whined ad nauseum about the sanctity of the seasons, and how we shouldn't roll them out too early. Which is weird coming from a shop owner, because we're supposed to be way ahead of the game. We order Christmas merch in January, and some of it starts rolling in in August (so weird to be checking in snowy branches and ornaments when it's 95 degrees out). By traditional measures, we should have fall and halloween stuff out in August; Christmas starts in early October; and Easter things should be in your storeroom (if not on the shelves) in January. Sheesh. I prefer to savor the seasons and make them last as long as possible.

But, I have to bow to the retail gods, too, and get with the protocol. Which is why I'm right in the middle of switching out halloween for holiday in the store. It's kind of weird to be consolidating all the spooky, black branchy, creepy things and replacing them with light and delicate silvery jars and bowls. We went big on mercury glass votives this year: I want candlelight everywhere (even if you use the little faux tealights inside the votives).

I'm not giving up on fall, however: we are still featuring lots of lovely linens and candles, foods, and serving pieces for fall and your Thanksgiving table.

Halloween? We're just stepping that part up. All our halloween gear is 50% off... and tomorrow evening we're having a Weird and Wonderful Cocktail Party at the shop from 4-7. Our mad scientist/mixologist will be serving some creepy drinks and ladling out prizes and goodies. More on that later.

Running off now to do some more sweet holiday decorating, and prepping some ghoulish hanging creatures for the haunted garden. It's a schizo life.

Whoooo is ready for fall?

2010-10-08T08:47:00.000-07:00

We are. Lots of new arrivals in the shop this week, including some great new cookbooks, soaps, candles (I'm just in love with the new "Maison Noir" collection from Voluspa), Baggallini, linens, scarves (yummy!), serving pieces, Halloween treats. Our kids' section is filling up again, too. Very cute. Plus vintage baskets and objets d'art, just in. Stop by and see us for a whiff of that fall flavor – you might just need one of those crazy raspberry or lime glittery skeletons. Open 10:30-5:30 Monday through Saturday.

Autumn Open House Saturday October 2

2010-10-01T21:40:00.000-07:00

I've been a kid all week, waiting impatiently for the sound of the UPS truck, arriving with each day's new goodies. We've been gearing up for Pomegranate's fall open house on Saturday (from 10-5), and have a store full of fresh treats for you. New scarves, gourmet foods, halloween décor, glassware, candles (oh, if only you had smell-o-vision right now!), books, linens (tea towels, bedding, runners, tablecloths, napkins), wreaths, ironwork, jewelry, and lots of fabulous gifts.

We're serving some delicious little treats and libations, plus we'll have a tasting of our wonderful new offerings from Earth & Vine (gourmet culinary sauces and sweet/savory jams). Buy any two Earth & Vine products and we'll give you a free gift basket (and wrap it up in style). Get a free petite verbena guest soap just for coming in, and outfit yourself and your home for the season!

Should be a beautiful day – stop by for a treat!

Fall is [not] in the air; our shop is in the mood.

2010-09-28T15:43:00.000-07:00

I'm never one for thinking about seasons too early. It nearly makes me throw up when I see the first vestiges of Christmas merch in Costco on a hot July day. Or Halloween stuff in August, for that matter. Yet, as shop owners, we have to think far ahead, and normal operating procedure is to put your stuff out early. As early as you can; if you don't – goes conventional wisdom – people will buy it all first at the shops that do put it out asap. I have no problem ordering, thinking, and planning early, after all, we do most of our holiday buying in January, mere weeks after Christmas of the year before.

Well, it is officially autumn, and we've got our whole fall look going at Pomegranate, even if it is a balmy 82º around here. Our Autumn Open House is this Saturday from 10-5, and while we'll be serving a number of tasty treats, we've decided to nix the hot cider in favor of ice cold lemonade. To drink hot cider properly, you've got to also go outside in a warm woolly jacket and crunch around on some leaves. Not that anyone is complaining about 82 degrees! It's fabulous, but it doesn't feel like Halloween is nearby.

Come in for a little shot of fall anyway. You'll appreciate our lovely autumnal table runners and pumpkins and scarves and cute halloween goodies when the weather does turn...

The hunter deer

2010-09-27T13:24:00.000-07:00

This little piece of perfect kitsch (ca. 1950s?) really cracked us up... a one-of-a-kind masterpiece now available at Pomegranate.

{our own little} Little Shop of Horrors

2010-09-24T10:36:00.000-07:00

As shop owners, we don't treat ourselves to too many date nights (any of the following reasons will do: lack of time, money, energy...). So it was an extra-extra special occasion the other night to go out and see "Little Shop of Horrors" at the Tower Theater. Whooeeee! We even had a glass of wine and some popcorn. I wore heels (sort of) with my jeans! Put on some lip gloss, too. [I think we need to get out more often.]

Anyway, it was a great production, and ends tomorrow night, so recommend you get tickets, quick, and treat yourself to a fun evening. You can do it all online, with no service fees. We were so impressed with the cast (good actors all, with pitch-perfect voices), the puppeteering, the set, the band. They got an instant standing-O from all of us at the end.

Since then we've been thinking about what little monster we could have in our shop to attract so much attention. It's Mollie the shop dog! She's not a man-eater (quite the opposite), but she does look like she swallowed a basketball (poor thing has a big fatty tumor on her side). Or maybe it's the full-size halloween ghoul Robert created. He stuck Mr. Hideous on one of our benches in the ice house building, and every time I go in there, I shriek when I see him. Not very ha-ha funny.

Shine or Rain: French Flea Market Sat., Sept 18

2010-09-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

Let's not believe the weather guys and just assume it will be sunny-ish tomorrow for our French Flea Market at Pomegranate – the last flea of the season and a really, really good one. We have some of our favorite vendors coming, including Tess with her fabulous beachy painted vintage furniture and Michelle with lots and lots of cool vintage repurposed French objets d'art and antiques. Shannon will be showing her wonderful totes she makes out of vintage fabrics and leather bridles. Gina is coming with more antiques and her great candles she creates using vintage vessels. Pam from Les Bloom has been busy with a whole new collection of fall plants, wreaths, arrangements and garden décor for our flea market. Can't wait to see the new hand-knitted and felted cupcakes, flower pins and wallets by Amy. Some of our new people are bringing wonderful antiques, furniture, artwork, prints, lamps... There's transferware and gorgeous vintage goodies from a new vendor who had a lovely antique store in Chicago. And so much more.

Come hungry: A Crêpe Affair will be serving up fresh, gourmet crêpes all day, for the full French shopping and eating experience!

It's Bend's most fabulous flea market, and you'll sob in your champagne if you miss this one. It's Saturday from 10-4 (shop open until 5:30), and if it does sprinkle a bit, you'll be under all the canopies, so no worries there. By the way, the shop is full of new fall merchandise, so give yourself time for a little twirl around inside. See you tomorrow!

Get ready for the French Flea Market at Pomegranate: this Saturday, Sept. 18

2010-09-14T09:39:00.000-07:00

Ready for a flea market fix? Here it comes, this Saturday, Sept. 18, in the gardens at Pomegranate, come rain* or come shine. It's the last one of the season, so get your mad money together, clear the decks and the calendar, and get ready to make a dash for Pomegranate. We have so many great vendors coming for this one (as always!) -- all hand-picked by us because they bring wonderful things at fabulous prices. There's cool, funky vintage furnishings and fashion, lovely antiques, hand-crafted goods from local artisans, florals, refurbished and repurposed accessories and objets d'art... and fresh, gourmet crepes served up all day by A Crepe Affair (sweet or savory, they are delicious!).

Feast your eyes on some pictures of last month's French Flea. Yummy.

*rain: not gonna happen, and if it does, we'll all stay dry under the canopies

Good uses for your favorite heirlooms

2010-09-10T07:43:00.000-07:00

Some of us have closets full of fine china and fancy serving pieces we never use. Not us. We've pared down all those bits and pieces to just the things we really love and use, and have found new uses for some of it. We were happy to be quoted so extensively on the subject in this article that appeared in the Bulletin last week.

What do you do with all your old china and silver? Use it? Store it? Dust the cobwebs off once a year and intend to use it for Thanksgiving (but end up grabbing your everyday plates anyway)?

Mom's Fun Center... on the way to Sun Mountain Fun Center

2010-09-06T08:28:00.000-07:00

Looks like a nice day today, but probably not as toasty as everyone would like. Great day to bring the kids to the Sun Mountain Fun Center and have a little bumper car adventure, perfect your mad mini golf skills, or bat a few balls around.

Mom might like to escape to her favorite little camp right next door: Pomegranate. We're full of new goodies, and open today from 10:30-5:30. Come have a picnic in our garden at our new picnic table, browse our three historic buildings, and enjoy a perfect day off. On River Mall Avenue just behind Macy's.

Euro tea towels... and the best little café curtains I didn't have to make

2010-09-02T11:30:00.000-07:00

Tea towels are a little obsession of mine. Like totes/handbags, you can't have too many. When they're brand new, I use them on our table or island counter to set up appetizers or glassware/bar station. Once someone spills wine or googs artichoke dip on them, they go into the wash and become nice dishtowels. I like to have one good one hanging on the oven door, too.

So I was thrilled to find these lovely European tea towels for Pomegranate. They're nicely oversized, beautifully designed, and made of thick, soft cotton. They make a great hostess gift, and also can be the easiest café curtains you never made. Photo above shows our funny little table on the front porch of the shop. We store display pieces, etc. underneath it, and I hated seeing boxes and stuff piled up underneath it. So I did the French thing and attached a little café curtain. The whole thing took maybe ten minutes. Bought a cheapy tension rod and curtain clips at Shopko; folded three black & white tea towels to hit just above the floor; clipped them on the rings, and voilà – my cute curtain treatment. You could do this for a window, console table... any place that needs a little cover.

I personally love the hot pink and orange "Flores del Sol" towels, and black & white fleur tea towels (they can go very modern, especially with granite countertops), but the ones that have been a big hit are the bees, on a pale yellow background, made in Holland. You'll just have to come see them...

Lost parakeet slums with the sparrows: what to do?

2010-08-31T09:09:00.000-07:00

Our wildlife menagerie at Pomegranate continues to grow (and entertain us), from the young buck who came right up to the back door (and ate the entire day's buffet at the bird feeder), to the teeny chipmunks, golden mantle squirrels (so cute!), sparrows, hawks, quail, and pygmy nuthatches.

Now we have a colorful interloper, and I'm worried about what's going to happen when things turn cold (as in, yesterday!). This pretty parakeet showed up last week, and he's having a grand ol' time with all his new buddies, flitting from tree to tree, squawking, and eating. Until I got these shots of him (not too bad, taken with the long lens through our big picture window), I didn't realize he had an ankle band, which must mean something to someone, no?

Someone suggested trying to trap him via an open cage with food in it, but I know where that's going: there will be an angry rock chuck in it in the morning, and no sign of the parakeet.

Any ideas? Doubtful he knows how to fly south, and sadly, winter is just around the corner.

Pottery Show and Demonstration this Saturday, Aug. 28

2010-08-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

Two of our favorite local potters will be setting up in the gardens at Pomegranate tomorrow, August 28, for a show of their latest work and demonstration of throwing and glazing techniques. Steve Provence and Eleanor Murphey, both professional potters based in Bend, are bringing their newest pieces for our annual show. Come talk to the artists and buy from them directly – there's nothing more satisfying than having a wonderful new piece of art for your home!

They're bringing a potter's wheel and glazing station: come try your hand at the wheel (hint: if you've never done it, it's harder than you think, but also lots of fun). Eleanor will also bring a limited number of bisqueware mugs for purchase: she'll show you how she creates her wax resist designs so that you can design and glaze your mug. Then she'll fire your masterpiece and have it ready for you later. What fun! Last year we had a blast at this show: can't wait to see what they're bringing this time... Pottery show from 11-5/shop is open 10-5:30. Find us at 120 NE River Mall Avenue, just across from the north end of Macy's.

It's a bella Bella Notte

2010-08-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

Were you expecting a clip from Lady and the Tramp? No, Bella Notte is our luscious bedding line at Pomegranate, all organic cottons, linens, silks. All washable (as in, machine washable!) and made in the US in 20 different colors. We just got in a new shipment and I had such fun putting it all together. What you can't see in this lousy photo (the next photography class I take should be on lighting!) is the soft, beautiful grays and crisp white palette and textures of the linen against cotton. I did pop a little pale pink in there, knowing that would be too girly for a lot of people, but the fun is coming up with a combination that suits you. Take away the fluffy pillow in whisper linen, and you've got a simple, modern theme going.

Come by and take a look!

Your complete prep list for attending flea markets & tag sales

2010-08-18T22:00:00.000-07:00

Getting ready to head out to some garage/tag sales? Are you as prepared as a Boy Scout for your adventure? If not, here are some tips and tricks (I am, afterall, the Shopping Monkey, and somewhat of an expert on these matters). And nevermind that I started this post two weeks ago, and this morning The Bulletin trumped me on it with a similar article gleaned from the wires.

First, start checking the newspaper classifieds and craigslist on Thursday. Some sales start on Friday (especially estate sales) and sometimes those are the best ones (but not always). Some even start early enough that if you're headed to work that day, you can get to the sale and still make it to work on time. Sweet! Pick the sales that sound good, and map out your route (if you're the one holding a sale, check out this post and this one). Our local daily (The Bulletin) even has a "map-it" feature if you go online to check for sales. Prioritize according to how good the sale sounds vs. location, so that you're not bouncing all over town.

Here's a random list of what you'll need for a successful day of shopping. First, cash. Cash still rules the day, and you'll need plenty of varied bills (and coins). Don't just stop at the ATM on your way and load up with a bunch of twenty dollar bills. Most sellers won't have enough change for everybody who does that, and besides, you'll be in a much better bargaining position if you can pull exact change out of your hat. Or your pocket.

I like to use a slim, cross-body Baggallini tote (of course, available at Pomegranate!) for garage sale day (or any other time, for that matter). It keeps your cash safe and close to you, and gives you that hands-free gathering option that you'll want during the shopping crush. No one wants you smacking them with your ginormous satchel of a handbag.

I always have a tiny measuring tape with me; you can't always trust your eyeballs to know if the size is right on a piece of furniture or art. If you are looking for furnishings and accessories, it's a good thing to have some of the dimensions you need written down on a piece of colored card stock in your wallet. Card stock helps keep your list from getting tattered or jumbled in with the receipts. We have a funny little expanse of wall at home that needs a tiny bookcase, no more than 14" wide. I have that written down, because if I rely on memory alone, I'll surely come home with a piece that's 18" wide. Duh!

I always bring with me a little stack of sticky notes and pen. If I have to gather things into a little pile somewhere at the sale, I can mark it with my name. However, try to avoid this leaving things alone in a pile strategy, because some sharky person will always come along, dig through the pile and snag your treasures.

If you go early (I mean really early!) to estate sales, you'll see some die-hard buyers with plastic bins or boxes, and their name and "sold" marked on bits of painter's tape (the blue stuff: it sticks to wood surfaces without damaging anything). They'll then zoom around and attach their stickers to things they want. I'm not a big fan of this maneuver. Years ago I went to an estate sale where some antique dealer had put his name on every piece, went back around and bought just the few things he really wanted, then disappeared. His name was still on everything, and people were sighing in disappointment that pieces were already "sold" -- until we all realized he was long gone. The poor guy running the sale was not amused.

In the back of the car, I always keep a basket or cardboard box, filled with recycled bubble wrap and tissue. Garage sale vendors rarely wrap up small things in satisfactory fashion, and you don't want that faux-Tiffany paperweight rolling around on its own. I also bring along a large, collapsible tote (with some tissue) that I can bring into the sale itself if needed. My favorite is one of those plastic IKEA shopping bags that they sell for next to nothing. They're strong and lightweight, and can carry a load of stuff. A good canvas market bag or two can also do the trick. Some people cart their own boxes right into the sale, but it can be a little rude, especially first thing in the morning when there's a crush of people trying to negotiate their way through the sale.

Perhaps most important? Plenty of bottled water to keep you hydrated through your adventures, and a travel pack of hand wipes, because you will get scummy.

Local artists at Pomegranate's French Flea Market

2010-08-05T07:45:00.000-07:00

Our upcoming French Flea Market is this Saturday, August 7, from 10-4, in the gardens at Pomegranate. After this, only one more chance to attend, on Saturday, Sept. 18.

It's just too much fun, friends. We have lots of great vendors with wonderful vintage finds, antiques, repurposed furnishings, objets d'art, and more new local artists with their wares. Above are just a few pictures of hand crafted pieces you'll find at the Flea. Love the totes above, created from cool vintage fabrics and recycled leathers (beautifully finished). From Amy, at Sublime Accents, a new line of cards she'll be showing with her great stitched and knitted applications (love those cute fiber cupcakes, too!). For more info, go to www.pomegranate-home.com. Put on your shopping shoes, grab your mad money* and make a dash for Pomegranate on Saturday. Lots of fun new arrivals in the shop, too!

* some of our vendors accept credit cards, and we've worked out a plan for others: for purchases over $100 we will run it through our Pomegranate machine for them (and you). Easy!

French Flea Market this Saturday {& some pix from our last market}

2010-08-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

Don't miss this Saturday's fabulous French Flea Market in the gardens at Pomegranate, from 10-4. We're chockablock with vendors of antique and vintage goods, objets d'art, repurposed furnishings and fashion, and local artisans with their wonderful hand crafted pieces. Come hungry: A Crêpe Affair is serving up fresh, gourmet crêpes (last time, we loved the breakfast crêpe with eggs and just the right amount of bacon). Here are some fun photos of last month's French Flea.

See you Saturday, August 7, at Pomegranate. For more info, see our website at www.pomegranate-home.com

Watch "White Collar" tonight... because our little ad is on it

2010-08-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

Chalk one up for unabashed self-promotion: for our upcoming French Flea Market at Pomegranate this Saturday, Aug. 7, we're running a series of fun TV ads (don't yet have a copy of it to post here). Mostly you'll see it on HGTV, Food Network (starting tomorrow, on two of my favorite cooking shows: "Everyday Italian" with Giada, and Ina Garten's show [of course I can't remember the name right now, but trust me, it's good]).

We also slotted one lone spot into one of our favorite summer TV escapist series: "White Collar." I love this show. It's like a fun, easy book to read in a hammock. As with all the summer fare (year round TV, for that matter), you have to suspend belief a little bit: the plots/the cons/the twists are all a bit, hmmm, unrealistic? But entertaining, nevertheless. And the scenes of Manhattan are wonderful. I would watch it just for a glimpse of that glorious apartment the main character lives in. And isn't there something Cary Grantish about said main character?

Anyway, watch it, because it's a good show – and watch for our little ad. Tell us if you see it, because this whole experiment with TV is a little... ah, scary?

Lavender days

2010-07-30T09:56:00.001-07:00

It was kind of a tough year for lavender around here. We've heard from more than a few customers about how some of their normally-hardy, older lavender plants just pooped out. Some of ours did, too (at home and at the shop). Robert spent some serious gardening time yanking out dead, gnarly lavender bushes. Something about the early cold snap, lack of moisture, extended winter (or just the natural life cycle)? Maybe one of you can shed some light on the situation. We're very careful about bringing in only the varieties that can take our Central Oregon conditions (nothing we've planted is too delicate).

But, the ones that made it through are just lovely right now, and probably ready for harvesting (although I can't stand to cut them down: just love looking at them and running my hands over their fragrant buds). We have just a few lavender plants left for sale at the shop: they're quite pretty and ready to plant up. And, we've got some great new lavender products available. Some of it was supposed to be here in time for our garden party last week... but arrived this week instead. Oh well.

With lavender on the brain, thought I'd share this wonderful post, in case you're feeling ambitious about cooking with culinary lavender. What a dreamy dessert bar. I'll have a wee taste of everything, please, starting with the Lillet!

Garden party (and sale) today at Pomegranate

2010-07-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

If you're out wandering about today and want something fun to do, stop by Pomegranate and join us for our little party out in the garden. Robert will be grilling up some special provence-style kabobs, and serving lavender lemonade, prosecco (the two mixed, if you wish!), and pastis for you diehard francophiles. There's lovely shade, picnic blankets and tables to enjoy, and maybe best of all (since it's going to be a bit of a scorcher), you can stand under our McGyvered misting stations that send out a cool mist of water (not enough to mess up your sunglasses, but just right for a little cool down).

Antler Inn is joining us with a wonderful selection of plants and blooming lavender – if you've been on the hunt for lavender this year, you know it's been rather skimpy and hard to find. Apparently the growing season just wasn't as good as it has been. But never fear! We have it today: healthy, gorgeous specimens that are hardy to Central Oregon. [That part is key, by the way: don't get swayed by delicate versions that may grow well in the valley, but die a quick death here.]

We have all kinds of new products in the shop, plus lots on sale just for the day (including garden hats, trellises, and arbors!). Stock up on our wonderful French lavender heart soaps, all gift-wrapped and ready to go... normally $3.50, today they're $2 each.

A bientôt!

Your Guide to Hidden Good Finds in Bend

2010-07-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

Whenever we visit a new town, we make it a point to search out the interesting, unusual and sometimes off-the-beaten-path spots, whether a shop or restaurant, museum or garden. I'm just not a big fan of the corporate chain, the bland conformity of the expected. Don't care how many deep-fried somethings or spongy bread substances you get for free. It's boring.

How do you find these hidden places? Only by asking, usually. Some of the smaller, locally-owned spots cannot afford to advertise in glossy tourist magazines or guides, so you have to search them out. Last time we were in Seattle, I insisted on visiting Watson Kennedy (one of my favorite shops). We figured they would know a good place for dinner that wasn't necessarily on the tourist route, and sure enough, the nice staffer there directed us to Matt's in the Market, a great place we never would have found on our own (it's right in the middle of Pike's Place Market, but cleverly hidden upstairs and down a hall).

Bend is full of hidden treasures when it comes to shops and eateries (including our own Pomegranate). So, in part because I love to play tour guide, I pulled a few friends and trusty reviewers together, and created a little directory to independent, locally-owned, interesting, charming, and off-the-beaten-path finds in Bend. Every business on it has a unique vision, a creative way of doing things, and although the setting they're in may be unusual and lovely, the locations themselves are geographically challenged.

It's been a great hit with visitors and locals alike. Just the other day, I had a couple come back to Pomegranate after having picked up a guide a few days earlier, and tell me that they visited every single business on the guide, and had so much fun doing it. Xoxo to you guys. Tip for locals: keep a copy in your guest room, and your visitors will be out adventuring for days.

You can pick up a copy of the guide at Pomegranate, the Visit Bend Welcome Center, or at any of the places listed. Or you can go to the website at www.GoodFindsBend.com for a complete listing, plus a section on places that are not quite as hidden, but still may not be on every tour guide's list. It's a work in progress, so we may not have covered every single spot yet – there's an email link on the website if we've overlooked a worthy (and hidden) place. And, disclaimer, we've not included any of our great places downtown, in malls, or on major thoroughfares because you're going to find all those on your own, easily, just by walking or driving around.

Ding dong drivers: to be thankful for horns that honk and brakes that work

2010-07-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

Two fun incidents on the way to work this morning: 1) A car coming the wrong way on a one-way street, the driver chatting merrily away on her cellphone. Right in front of the courthouse! Brilliant! The guy in front of me waved wildly at her; I honked and yelled (as if someone was listening?). She finally figured it out, I think, about half a block later, when she yanked the car around crosswise into a parking spot and started to back out crazily.

2) Few blocks later, I'm coming along in the right turn lane, when a stopped car in the left turn lane decides to turn right, without looking, without turn signals, directly in front of me. Just whips his little car across the lane, right into position for a good t-bone style crash. Fortunately, I was already on high alert and slammed my brakes so hard all the contents of the back seat (not the dog, fortunately, as I had left her at home) came flying forward. Honked the horn, hard, and got a meek little wave from the passenger.

Has the heat melted our brains already?

Add these to your weekend list of fun stuff to do!

2010-07-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

Whooeee. It's gonna be a busy weekend around Central Oregon. There's the Sister's Quilt Show (hint: everybody says to get there first thing in the morning, so that's when everybody goes – in order to not get crushed, go a bit later in the day).

There's Summer Fest downtown (art, music, food) that goes on into the evening (another hint: stroll into some of the shops downtown, too, and buy a little something if it hits your fancy -- I know it sounds crazy with the amount of traffic there, but some of the businesses really suffer when the streets are closed and everybody is just into milling around with their cotton candy).

And, drum roll, please: ze French Flea Market in the gardens at Pomegranate is in full swing tomorrow, Saturday, July 10 from 10-4 (shop open until 5:30). We have so many good vendors coming in for this one (as always!). There's Michelle with all her wonderful vintage and repurposed Parisian-style goodies (from vintage fashion to silver to découpaged boxes, magnet boards...). The two fun sisters from Eugene are coming with their French flea market finds and fabulous, artistic jewelry made out of antique mahjong pieces and old beads and found objects. Tess will be here with her beach house fine and funky upcycled furnishings; Matina and her Fabulous Finds is showing her unique fashions and vintage treats; Antler Inn is bringing loads of plants; Amy and pals from Sublime Accents will have more of her adorable, hand-crafted cupcakes, wallets and tags. And we have some new vendors with great antiques and artists with hip hand-crafted jewelry. See my last post for pictures from June's french flea market, just to get a little taste of what's to come. Oh, our pals from A Crêpe Affair will be here too, serving up fabulous, fresh gourmet crêpes. Come hungry; you may want several. Mmmm, can taste them now.

Come early in the day or late – it doesn't matter, because there will be so many wonderful finds for you (another hint: lots of vendors bring more than they can fit in at one time, so they keep putting things out throughout the day). Whether you're an addicted bargain hunter, dealer, or collector of fun things, prepared to be very happy! We have lots of new arrivals in the shop, too, from hats to totes to incredible antique pieces!

And for some more fun (still with me? can you stand any more? sure!), check out this neat Open Studio event in Boonesborough. It's called Three Artists' Studios on Boonesborough Drive. Saturday, July 10 from 11-4 and Sunday from 11-3.

There's almost nothing I love more than an open studio tour! You get to meet the artists in their working studios and see what inspires them and how they work. That part is always fascinating. And you can buy their art directly from them, which makes it so meaningful and special. You don't want to miss this one. I'm going to jump over there on Sunday, for sure. The three artists are Eleanor Murphey, master potter (you've seen her wonderful work around town at some of the First Friday events, including several at our former Pomegranate Downtown location) at 64660 Boonesborough Dr., accomplished sculptor Dan Rider (21883 BB Dr.), and innovative glass artist Kate MacLeod (21865 BB Dr.). Three wonderful, expressive artists in three very different media. They all happen to live on the same street, and didn't know each other before locating to Boones Borough (not sure if that's two words or not): all of them are inspired by the beautiful, open terrain of the neighborhood, and the peace and solitude in which to create their art. All three are independent, working professional artists, so you'll really get some insight into their lives and inspirations.

Oh boy. This weekend is gonna be good. Pace yourself a little bit, and you can hop around from one event to the other. Good news is, Bob the weather guy says it will be very pleasant this weekend, a little cooler than today. Yummy!

French Flea Market at Pomegranate coming up this Saturday

2010-07-07T11:29:00.000-07:00

Pomegranate is THE place to be this Saturday, if you're a seriously fun shopper, bargain-addict, collector, dealer... or just simply looking for a few good pieces. Our juried French Flea Markets have grown over the years to become what I think is the best, most interesting collection of vendors in the area. It's a nice combination of antiques, vintage, local Etsy artisans, plants... and new this year – so you don't starve while you're shopping – fresh gourmet crêpes from A Crêpe Affair (simply delicious – we just about tried one of everything, and they were so good).

Here are a bunch of photos from our last market in June. There were so many cute things I couldn't stop snapping pictures, so there are a lot of them. Not sure how to put this in an album – any suggestions?

p.s. I love the first picture: thank you, Cathy, for your always wonderful, sweet smile!! Good job snagging that amazing bird cage!

The wildlife menagerie at Pomegranate... and some shots I like

2010-07-07T09:30:00.000-07:00

It's been a miniature High Desert Museum wildlife scene (minus the otters) at Pomegranate recently. We always have lots of critters everywhere (including our dog Mollie), but the visitor activity seems to have ramped up lately. They must be all talking to each other about the high quality food we serve.

The popular neighborhood café is our bird feeder between the main house and the ice house: we keep it fully stocked with a mix from Round Butte Seed (1/2 and 1/2 Wild Bird and Wild Bird Premium). So we have a zillion little birdies, quail, squirrels, chipmunks, #^!*rock chucks, deer, geese, ducks... and sometimes, the hawks. The squirrels entertain us all day with their antics, hanging upside down and straddling the tree and feeder to get right into the goods. The chipmunks chase each other at warp speed, all the birds come out in force in early evening... and everybody seems to get along. A few weeks ago a couple of quail came bobbing along, followed by about 40 little itty bitty teenie weenie babies, each about the size of a small walnut. I grabbed my camera and tiptoed out there, but they had already scattered under the bushes. Sat on our bench for a long while, the camera focused and resting on my knee, in case they decided to trot back out.

And then I remembered that I was at the shop, and there might be confused customers wandering about inside {have you ever walked into a shop and said "hello! hello? heLLOO?" wondering if the shop owner was lying on the floor in the backroom or something? But I digress.} I've been on high alert for baby quail appearances since then, but they're in hiding (for good reason, it turns out).

Then last week (the week before? who knows?) we were working away, getting ready for our shop's 12th anniversary celebration, and we heard that unmistakable "scree screeee" sound the hawks make. Robert ran outside and sure enough, a hawk was just scooping up – in full flight and with hardly a dip in power – a little bird off the ground. The hawk-mate was sitting at the very tip of a pine tree in our garden making a lot of noise. Maybe 40 feet up? 50?

I got a shot of it I really love. I wish the bird itself was more in focus, but you can see how sharp the tree is: the bird at that second was cawing at me and just raising its wings to fly off. It was just one of those accidental moments that worked (and it was pretty darn far away, so not bad, little Nikon P-90!). Had I thought to set a faster shutter speed, I might have captured it perfectly. Still, I'm the one who usually presses the shutter just as the dog turns her butt to me, so I'm happy with this.

What kind of wildlife shots have you been capturing (NY city street scenes not necessarily included)?

Necessities for the 4th of July

2010-07-02T11:12:00.000-07:00

We're so excited about the 4th of July. Not just because it's a day to celebrate (which we will!), but we're planning to close that day. Which means the world is our oyster. What shall we do? Pancake breakfast? Pet Parade? Lounge around? Take a walk together? OMG. When you own a shop (and have no employees), you rarely get to do those 'normal' things, especially on a weekend. So it's a double sweet day off.

We will be making our now-tradition of Tuscan spare ribs and grilling up some fresh corn and drinking wine on the deck with friends. Ahhhhh. That's all I know so far.

Meanwhile, we have some fun accoutrements at the shop for outdoor living and soirées. Cute Americana cocktail napkins, an even cuter children's vintage picnic table (painted in that perfect Ralph Lauren blue), great garden hats, sturdy bistro glasses, bright summer totes for pool or farmer's market, fab sunglass readers... you'll just have to come see it all. But not this Sunday.

Cool Etsy artisan crafts... even nicer in person, right here in Bend!

2010-07-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

Little blurb in the Bulletin yesterday promoting garden markers (made of vintage silverware) to buy online through Etsy. Cute, but did you know you can get these locally at Pomegranate? I have to say, with all due respect, ours are even better (hand crafted by artist pals in Salem). We put our own little twist on the ones we carry, with verbiage we thought up especially for the purpose. Here's the thing: we figure you'll know which herbs are rosemary and which are thyme, so instead of stating the obvious, we asked for fun sayings, which will go anywhere (and make a great gift, too). I love the idea of a kitchen window herb planter with a "Le Petit Jardin" vintage silver stake in it. Or how about "Just Grow," or "Think Love." They can go in outside planters, herb gardens, indoor orchids...anywhere!

Yep, they're adorable. So are our little card/recipe holders made of spoons and forks and adorned with a single crystal. Love the sweet keychains, too. Mine makes a lovely 'ping' against all the dangling keys. Stop by to take a look. More fun than going online, yes? By the way, we love work from local artists! Right now we have some beautiful new pottery made in Bend, and our always wonderful line of hand-painted magnets and magnetized clothespins for clipping love notes, art, postcards.

Pomegranate celebrates 12 years in business tomorrow!

2010-06-25T10:30:00.000-07:00

It's been a bit of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride over the years, but we've kept our little Pomegranate humming along for 12 years! Tomorrow at the shop, we celebrate: bubbly, cupcakes, tidbits to snack on, extreme croquet in the back garden, new merchandise, lots on sale, kisses from Mollie, door prizes and goodies. We're also giving away our favorite, best-selling soap: get a large French lemongrass heart soap free with $10 purchase (reg. $3.50 each). Official party hours are 12-6, but we'll be there earlier if you want to swing in and say hello.

A great big thank you to our lovely and wonderful clientele who have taken the trouble to come search us out in our little hidey-hole spot over the years. We're hangin' in there, and very grateful for it. Cheers! Hope to see you on Saturday...

Keeping it local (part 3): The Guide to Hidden Good Finds in Bend

2010-06-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

That big graphic I tried to put into my last post (about The 3/50 Project) kind of cut itself in half. But you can go here to learn all about this simple concept in keeping your local shops and restaurants alive.

And here's another fun thing for those of you who like to find all those special, hidden, independent shops and cafés in town: our new Off the Grid Guide to Hidden Good Finds in Bend, Oregon. It's a two-sided card, divided by north, mid, or south neighborhood sections of town, with reviews and directions to special (and hidden) finds in Bend. Even if you're a local, bet you didn't know about all of us! It's a great thing to put in your guest room: yep, they'll be busy for days, looking for all these cool little spots. Fun thing is, it's not just one kind of shop. In any given area, you'll find little indie boutiques or bookstores, home décor/antiques, and eateries, all highly recommended and geographically challenged.

The little representation above (just the front side) is way too small to read, but you can link to our website (www.GoodFindsBend.com), or pick up a copy at any of the spots listed. The website goes even further with map and website links, and additional recommendations for not-quite-as-hidden spots in town. We hope you find us all, have a good time exploring, and support – as much as possible – your charming, local, independently-owned businesses (whether located in out-of-the-way spots or right smack downtown!).

Keeping it local (part 2): The 3/50 Project

2010-06-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

We're big fans of the 3/50 Project, a simple idea to bring home the idea of shopping and eating out with local purveyors. Just think of three independently-owned businesses you miss that have already left the scene, and think of three you would miss if they did close the doors. Read on, then go visit.

Keeping it local (part 1): bookstores

2010-06-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

This article in the Bulletin the other day brought a tear to my eye (esp. the last bit about paying a book forward). I also thought: there's hardly a retailer in the land who hasn't thought about sending out a similar SOS sometime in the last two-plus years. But we're a hardy (or is that foolish?) bunch and we tend to slug it out until the last pennies are gone. At some point, those who've closed (or are planning to close) just wake up one morning and realize that's what they have to do to stop the bleeding. Although in many cases the bleeding doesn't stop: you hardly ever get out without some lingering lease obligation or debt repayment or something.

But, the good news is, we're all trying, we're all plugging along, figuring it out and adjusting to new expectations (and believe me, I know it's not just retailers who are trying to reinvent themselves and survive). We all want to stay in business. The idea of a neighborhood shop is not dead yet, although it's not a very good business model in general.

I thought it was very touching that people stepped up and donated time and money to Dudley's to try and help save a friendly bookstore. But mostly, we all need people to remember that when you do shop, try to shop locally. I think we have some fabulous, independently-owned bookstores in town, and we're lucky to have them. I've been tempted occasionally by the discount warehouse stack o' books, and even zoomed around on Amazon to find a used copy of some obscure title. But no more. I will refuse; I will walk right by and instead go to one of our local bookstores. You?

Absinthe: the Green Fairy is not for wimps

2010-06-22T09:27:00.000-07:00

I've long had this fascination with absinthe: not the stuff itself, but the lore and tradition of it. Banned in the US in 1915, it is now readily available, minus the psycho-tropic, hallucinogenic element. Some of you may rue that fact. In the shop, we're carrying some pretty nifty absinthe accoutrements (spoons, glassware, sugar), which forced us to do some field research on the brew itself. First of all, Absinthe is available here in Bend – several choices are offered at the liquor store inside Ray's Grocery (and perhaps at others; that's as far as we got). It tastes like the essence of anise, which I'm not a big fan of, but it is interesting, and herby. It is also very, very strong. I thought it was going to be more of an apéritif like pastis or pernod, but non, mon dieu, it is 100 proof alcohol. So if you see little tendrils of smoke coming out of your ears after drinking this, you'll know why.

But, the "ceremony" of pouring the water and absinthe over sugar is still an interesting one... if you happen to like the taste of it. In any case, I like having a couple of those beautiful glasses in our cabinet, along with the little Eiffel spoon. Not sure we'll ever finish that bottle, unless a couple of house guests decide they love it. {Have to say that again, the bottle design and branding, as in my previous post about Domaine Canton, is exquisite.} Pictured are a few of the accessories we have at Pomegranate, and here's a good link to learning more about it:

http://www.absinthebuyersguide.com/

Mixmeister Robert shakes it up again with our Gin Gingeroo

2010-06-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

Those of you who know us, know that Robert can mix up a mean martini. He's just got a knack for it. At our Pomegranate holiday soirées, we serve up a delicious Pometini from a little ice bar we set up outside at the shop. It's always quite the hit.

Some time ago, I heard about this new French liqueur, and made all kinds of phone calls to California in a quest to find it (because I'm a goofball). It's a ginger-based liqueur blended with cognac (made in very small batches), and I just adore all things ginger, so had to have some. Called Domaine de Canton, it's in this fabulous bottle (love the architecture of it), and has an exquisite, exotic taste. Rather expensive it is, but you only use a wee bit at a time. First time we tried it, we had to ask our friends to bring a bottle with them over the border. Weird how that makes you feel like some sort of outlaw. Happily, now the liquor store at Ray's right here in Bend carries it.

So here's our new concoction: Robert made up the drink, and I made up the name. A Gin Gingeroo (might have been channeling Mary Poppins at the time). Enjoy! {Save it for a celebratory evening, and you can make that precious bottle last.}

2 oz good gin
3/4 oz Domaine de Canton
juice of small lemon
3/4 oz triple sec to taste (depends on how sweet/sour lemons are)

Shake over ice, pour into your best, ice-cold martini glasses. Garnish with a twist of lemon.

Cin cin.

French Flea Market – today, mes amis!

2010-06-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

We always are so excited about our French Flea Markets at Pomegranate, especially (after such a long winter!) the first one of the summer. Which is today, Saturday, June 12, from 10-4. Our juried flea markets have gotten bigger and better every year; our hand-picked vendors are coming from all over the west. We have Paula from Idaho with her recycled metal garden art. Colleen from Walla Walla, who just did a weekend with the Farm Chicks show (and used to have a darling French shop). Michelle is bringing tons of her vintage finds and repurposed handcrafts with a Parisian twist. Tess will be there with her fabulous and affordable vintage furnishings. Casarama is bringing (as always!) cool, cool stuff. We've got wonderful antiques dealers, fabulous Etsy artisans (from all over Oregon; many are local) with hand crafted jewelry, paintings, furnishings, handbags, cards, objets d'art. There's vintage fashion and linens (do you know someone once found an original 1960's to-die-for Chanel handbag at our flea market?). A Crêpe Affair will be with us, making fresh, gourmet sweet and savory crêpes (for the full French experience)... you will not go hungry at our flea market.

Oh, not to mention that the store is full of recent arrivals, from vintage to new. A great new selection of Baggallini totes, bistro glassware, paper, postcards, notebooks and journals, French jewelry from our favorite designer, books, French soaps and lotions (Mistral's shea butter pomegranate soap is my new obsession), children's games and books (learn to count to ten with Le Grenouille!), and more. On sale during our flea market: scarves and select jewelry are 1/2 off, hand crafted Maruca handbags are 30% off, all pewter is 1/2 off, and Bella Notte bedding in stock is 25% off.

It's a little bit of Paris in Bend. But without the Gauloise smoke, or funny looks if you mispronounce something. And you don't have to go to the Poste and try to argue about sending your precious purchases via poste economique. You don't have to schlep an extra suitcase around just for your flea market finds. You can just take it easy and come shop right here at Pomegranate in Bend.

So, grab your shopping shoes and your mad money and get to Pomegranate at 10 (or a little early, if you wish). By the way, most vendors will take credit cards for purchases over $100 (and we take credit cards in the store for anything you wish). The flea market goes from 10-4; the shop is open until 5:30. See you at the flea! For directions or more info, go to www.pomegranate-home.com. Au revoir!

French Flea Market this coming Saturday (and a peek at our ad)

2010-06-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

A reminder to hunters (of the flea market variety) and gatherers, treasure seekers, and fellow shopping monkeys: Pomegranate's first French Flea Market of the summer is coming up this Saturday, June 12. It's going to be absolutely fabulous. Our hand-picked vendors are coming in from all over the west (Oregon, Washington, Idaho) with antiques, garden art, vintage fashion and repurposed furnishings, hand-crafted artisan pieces (some really great Etsy artists are attending!), and various wonderful goodies. Don't miss the shop owner from Washington with her great Paris flea market finds! So many great vendors. Can't wait. The flea market goes from 10-4 (shop is open until 5:30), so get your mad money ready, and make a dash for Pomegranate on Saturday. By the way, most vendors will accept credit cards on purchases over $100, so you can shop to your heart's content.

Here's a preview of our fun little TV ad: watch for it this week on HGTV, Food Network, Bravo and TLC.

Fuzzy-headed boys in the garden

2010-06-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

Came home the other day to find these boys in our garden, munching away to their heart's content. Don't their fuzzy antlers look like something you might have created in crafts class with glue and spray-on velvet coating?

They were very complacent and let me take a lot of shots of them (even making smacky kiss sounds to get them to look at me). They didn't even flinch when cars squealed to a stop in the street to take a look. I'd say they're Bend's most content and satisfied citizens.

Napkin rings: not just for fancy schmancy dinners

2010-05-29T10:28:00.000-07:00

We use our napkin rings every day at our house. Lots of people feel that napkin rings are only for setting the table for a festive dinner, but their real purpose is to tell you which napkin belongs to whom. Because if you use cloth napkins, you usually use them for a few days – or at least a few meals – and no way you want to use someone else's napkin! {Somehow I can't imagine using paper napkins anymore, except for the occasional picnic or snack on the road.} Cloth napkins are so nice, and so easy to care for. I have piles of them in cotton and linen. Both wash up beautifully and just get softer and nicer with age (just like me).

We just got in a shipment of my favorite pewter napkin rings, and it may be the last of them. We bought up what we could from a company that, sadly, is going out of business. We got a good deal, so we're passing it on. They're all 50% off this weekend at Pomegranate, along with some other wonderful pewter pieces, from candlesticks to vases (great gifts, by the way).

Here's a fun dinner party trick. It only involves some serious collecting first, and some oversized glasses of wine with dinner. I love to find antique napkin rings with engraved names. Since many of these date back to the early 20th century or before, some have sweet, old-fashioned names on them. Give each person a new identity with their napkin ring alter ego, and have them make up stories as Mabel, Herbert or Bessie. At our house, Robert is also known as Three-fingered Louie. His antique silver napkin ring is engraved with "Louie:" that, combined with the accident he had awhile back in his woodshop, gives us the nickname. Pretty good for an aspiring blues musician...

Peony Love

2010-05-25T09:23:00.000-07:00

Like all of us in Bend, I've been searching for signs of spring. Yes, the crabapples are in bloom and the lilacs are starting to peek out, and that's 100% better than the brown dirt cowboy sticks we were looking at last month. But the one thing I really love, the thing I wait for and that stops me in my tracks at the market (because we don't really grow them all that well in our own gardens) is peony season. So there I was, with a strict cash budget at the store, and these bundles of gorgeous peonies were calling out to me: pick me! no pick me! What is it about them? The layers and layers of delicate petals? The amazing colors, from palest whisper pink to watermelon red? The fact that they start out all round and tight, then go to this sort of lettucy, blowsy wild pouf? I don't know, but I love 'em. The season is short, friends, so go out and get some today. I found these at Newport Market, and I bet the florists have them, too. Have you seen them other places? You don't need a fancy arrangement; they work their own magic without filler or anything else. Just give them a good sharp cut under cool water, and plop them in a vase. For these, I like a vessel with a bit of a flared side to it, since they need room for their heads to open up. Happy happy happy.