The Jolly Blog

V'Tine Place Mats

2012-01-25T15:05:00.001-05:00

Say it with heart! V'tines place mats available at The Jolly Troop Shop.

12" x 18". Printed on Cougar 100lb uncoated. Laminated with love. Click here.

Penny Purple Planning

2012-01-24T15:06:00.001-05:00

Penny isn't a pouter. But for some reason, after the big winter holidays and all the gatherings, she found herself feeling ultraviolet because she's the only purple member of the Troop. The reds have taken in Edward, Yvette has forced herself in with the yellows and of course, Black Jack and The Twins revel in being achromatic. She didn't want to feel blue, so she did what she did best: she made plans for an adventure.

NOTE: THE FOLLOWING PASSAGES ARE THINGS YOU CAN DO TO PLAN AN ADVENTURE. PENNY CALLS THIS "PURPLE PLANNING."

POINT NO. 1: PULL OUT A MAP All "serious" adventures require a map. Find one in your grandpa's study, a local Maverick gas station, your city library, under the seat of your mom's car or on the internet. Become familiar with the names of streets and rivers. Determine a point of interest. Did you know Boston's nickname is "Beantown?" Did you know map-makers are called cartographers?

POINT NO. 2: FIND A TOUR GUIDE Who says you have to pay for a tour guide? If possible, find a friend that knows the area and can show you the best places to visit. If you don't have a friend there, make one. Ask for some pointers! Make sure to keep your traveler's guidebook (Rick Steve's, Frommer's, Lonely Planet) handy and thank the tour guide with dinner, a hi-5, and a commitment to help the next stranger in your neighborhood.

POINT NO. 3: TAKE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED You will remember your adventure better if you do what Robert Frost suggests: "take the [road] less traveled by." Duck down an alley or street or place NOT listed in your guidebook. Get lost finding it. Make your way back to the road "more" traveled. Getting lost helps you remember.

POINT NO. 4: EAT LOCAL WITH THE LOCALS Enjoying great food is one of the best parts of an adventure. Ask local folks the best places to eat and where you can find the best "local" dish. Do yourself a favor and stay away from flavors you are used to. Make sure to treat yourself to at least one delicious meal. Did you know Boston is known for their baked beans?

POINT NO. 5: SEIZE THE DAY You don't have to do the Newsies dance to seize the day. Take time in this new place you've found. Explore the details. Document it by shooting photographs of your favorite things and writing about it. Don't rush the day. Choose 2 or 3 things to enjoy that day and call it good!

POINT NO. 6: SEE THE LIGHTS Make sure to spend time "seeing the lights." Enjoy the night life because it is usually when the city comes to life! Find a café. Listen to live music. See a dance performance. Stop to enjoy a street performer and make sure to leave them a tip—it's good karma, but it also supports their incredible talents.

POINT NO. 7: GET SWEATY Try exercising in a different way than you're used to while you're on your adventure. Walk to the bridge and back. Run the fire escape. Take a yoga class in the park. Swim across a river. Paddle a kayak in a pond. Break up your routine by creating a new sweat-body memory.

POINT NO. 9: BE OF GOOD CHEER(S) Adventures are adventures because things don't always work as they are planned. Be flexible. Relax. Laugh about the unexpected things. Enjoy the people you meet because next time you visit, you'll be in a place where everybody knows your name!

Twin Lions: Patience & Fortitude

2011-12-31T19:19:00.000-05:00

Something about the last day of the year makes you want to spend it with someone important—like your best friend. So Black Jack and I met uptown to discuss our options. It just so happened that we ran into Magnus. Have you ever planned to do something with just one friend and then someone unexpected arrives? Before Magnus perched, Black Jack grumbled, "I don't want my fly-time messed up by a bookworm."

Magnus was visiting his favorite intersection in New York (Fifth Avenue and West 41st Street) to pause and remember 2011. When he asked us if we knew why this area is called John Bigelow Plaza, we shook our heads. Magnus said John Bigelow was a respected New Yorker. He was so well respected that he was offered nominations by two opposing political parties—at the same time!

Magnus told us this was a great place to see breakdancing, so we found some seats and enjoyed some "toprock" "floorwork" and "freezes." Black Jack, however, was more concerned with the 10 foot lion to our immediate right.

"Oh! You mean Patience?" asked Magnus. Turns out Patience is the lion on the south side of the plaza. He and Magnus have had 1,456 conversations on every New York Times Best Seller. Why? Patience guards the entrance to Magnus' favorite building in the city...

The New York Public Library!

Black Jack soon realized there are perks to knowing a know-it-all bookworm: they know the best kept secrets for sliding down bannisters.

We flew around the McGraw Rotunda ceiling and talked about Prometheus. Did you know he was the titan that stole fire from Zeus and gave it to mortals? Do you know how Zeus punished him? I don't think I'll be giving fire to anybody as a gift any time soon.

We visited Magnus' favorite research spot amid books, lamps, wooden desks and tucked in a corner just below the windows. We looked up the meaning of Black Jack's name and found out it is a game and a manga comic character. Someone was a little excited to learn this.

Do you ever get lost in books? Black Jack did... for the first time.

As we left the library, we flew to the north side of the plaza to meet the twin brother of Patience: Fortitude. Black Jack was so giddy about discovering the library that he did a beak stand that would have made Penny proud. And that's when Magnus remembered: it was the Lion's birth year! They are 100 years old!

With 2012 just hours away, we decided to be patient about our earlier plans and instead, ask Fortitude his thoughts on the future. His deep, rumbling voice reminded us, "Face every day with a strong mind and a brave heart. Be patient with yourself and others."

May Patience and Fortitude guard you and guide you in your Jolly New Year!

Winter Wish

2011-12-12T17:39:00.000-05:00

Do the holidays ever feel like hole-idays to you? The other night, we all met up to find a fir tree—all of us except Roman. He's still gone and we haven't heard from him. As the temperature dropped, so did my hope of seeing him any time soon. I found myself wishing—wishing the Troop was whole... together... accounted for. Sensing my sadness, Sophia tip-toed to the top of the lights and filled the air with a tales of our favorite winter folklore character: Fred Frost.

As we flew to the make-shift, fir tree forrest to pick out a pine, Sophia reminded us of Fred Frost folklore: "Do you know what makes his black boots special?" she asked, "They are made out of shadows so he can slip in and out of space without being seen or heard!"

"It's easy to know if he's been around because his ice-blue feathers next to his white-cloud beard turn the air around him into frost!"

"Fred Frost always carries his Three Frosty Flakes. If you can find them, he'll grant you a Winter Wish under a red hat!"

"You can't talk about Fred Frost without talking about his wind-fast pal, Zephyr. Did you know Zephyr has the same name as the Greek god of the west wind? You'll know Zephyr is close if you feel a frosty wind blowing."

"Did you know that Zephyr was an apprentice to Rudolph? He was so good Rudolph gave him something incredibly special: a Very Shiny Nose."

"Fred Frost sits between Zephyr's antlers and flies around the world granting Winter Wishes. And who knows—maybe he'll be in Brooklyn tonight!" As Sophia said this, I saw her eyes sparkle. I knew she believed in Fred Frost even though she had never seen him.

As we landed in the boughs of a Frazier fir, I pulled Magnus and Stilts aside: "Do you really think Fred Frost is real? Do you really think he grants a Winter Wish to somebody that finds the Three Frosty Flakes?" Magnus raised his eyebrows, looking doubtful while Stilts just hummed and nodded.

Immediately, the rest of the Troop flocked and began debating whether Fred Frost was real or if he was just a great idea. Amid all the arguing, Sophia was the only one that heard something unusual just over the tip of the tree. When she got to the top to see what was there, she didn't see anything.

We finally stopped arguing when we realized we couldn't come to a conclusion. Everybody took their opinion, tucked it away and started inspecting potential trees to take home. We couldn't decided between the citrus-scent of the Frazier or the "does-not-shed-as-much" factor of the Douglas.

When she had a moment to herself, Sophia decided to inspect a beautiful glass ornament. Suddenly, in place of her reflection, she saw Fred Frost and Zephyr looking back at her! In a flash they were gone so she screamed for everybody to "come quick!"

"Huddle close. Now close your eyes and whisper a Winter Wish." Sophia sounded excited and frantic. We had never seen her like this, so we thought we should pay attention and do as she asked. It grew quiet for a few minutes and suddenly a calm floated around us. Softly, we could hear Sophia's golden voice singing:

Shadow-black boots, silent and soft, walk around your heart's winter loft

Shadow-black boots, lucky and fast, can you make my heart-wishes last?

Fred Frost is coming, Fred Frost is near

Whisper your wishes, Fred Frost will hear...

When Sophia finished the entire song, we opened our eyes and looked at one another. All was calm. All was bright.

We all stayed quiet and began to search the entire make-shift forrest for Frosty Flakes because... well,... because it was the right thing to do. Silas and Yvette were the first to find one.

Algernon, Penny and Edward found the second.

The Twins, Pascal and Black Jack said the third drifted towards Sophia's song and that something magical happened. And that's all they can say about it.

After searching all the trees and gathering the Three Frosty Flakes, we still couldn't find the Winter Wish. So we asked the urban lumberjack if there were any trees, boughs, or garland pieces we hadn't seen. "Did you see that little guy?" he asked, pointing upwards. There, high above all the other trees, was a little tree tied to a little pole with a little string.

And in it, our Winter Wish under a red hat.

Thanks to our friends, Xmas Tree Brooklyn, for allowing us to visit and perch! You can see them at facebook.com/xmastreebrooklyn or call 917-378-9212. Or if you haven't found your fir yet, visit them at 150 Court Street between Pacific and Dean.

T-Shirt: Algernon

2011-08-31T10:21:00.000-04:00

Everybody loves Algernon. I'm not kidding. So here he is, in his massive, plump, chartreuse glory. You can buy this shirt on Skreened and the cool thing about it is that you can decide the color, the fit, a hoodie or a tank top.

Mean Hurricane Irene

2011-08-29T05:27:00.011-04:00

This last week has been less colorful without Roman in the branches. Last night while we were out for a perch, Black Jack flew in with some shaky news: a hurricane was making its way towards us. "What's it's name?" asked Sophia. "Irene," buzzed Black Jack, "And she's lean enough and mean enough that we need to evacuate."

And just like that, the wind started howling and the rain started pounding. To keep things light, we all took names of hurricanes for 2011: Black Jack = Bret; Algernon = Harvey; Stilts = Philippe; Silas = Sean; Yvette = Rena; Magnus = Vince; Sophia = Katia; Pascal = Lee; The Twins = Ophelia and José; Penny = Gert; Edward = Don; me = Nate.

We took a break on a lamp post while the adventurers of the troop (Bret, Gert, Sean and Lee) did a little reconnaissance.

Did you know the names of hurricanes alternate from girl names to boy names, every other time? Did you know they go in alphabetical order? Did you know another name for a hurricane is a tropical cyclone? Did you know weathervanes are 3500 years old?

We were able to reach Roman and find out he was okay. When times are stormy, it's important to make sure your flock is safe.

Thankfully, we found a dry place where we could wait out the storm. Sophia began, almost immediately, to relay stories of Poseidon and why he does what he does. As we sat and listened and got lost in the sound of the wind and rain and Sophia's tales, I realized that sometimes it takes a hurricane to remind me of who and what is important.

Coloring Page: Mug with Hugs

2011-08-26T10:21:00.000-04:00

If someone leaves, make sure to mug them with hugs. Can you find Roman? Can you find your favorite Trooper? Click, download, print and color.

Broken On The Brooklyn Bridge

2011-08-23T13:12:00.020-04:00

Sometimes, even when the sun comes up in the morning and the sky is full of summer-blue, sad news comes floating on the wind. A couple mornings ago, Roman told me he was thinking of leaving The Troop and asked if he could talk to me about it. I said yes and told him I'd meet him on the steps leading up to the Brooklyn Bridge.

We flew to the top of the arches and sat for awhile. I could tell he was a little nervous to talk, so I waited. I thought about the hard work it would be to build an incredible bridge and then I thought about the hard time Roman must be having. There's no two-ways about it: bridge building is difficult but deconstructing a bridge may be more difficult.

We flew to a bench and Roman asked, "Did you know the first creator of this bridge died as a result of working on this bridge? Did you know the creator's son was paralyzed from working on it?" I shook my head no and stayed quiet a little longer. Roman was having a hard time with his life-bridge.

Bridges are structures that get you from one place to another; bridges help people stay above water; bridges are constantly being used by folks going in opposite directions.

Even though bridges makes it easy to cross from one side to the other side, you occasionally run into sharp-pointed obstacles.

Suspension cables need to be anchored to either side of a bridge to create tension. The tension helps to keep it up. The suspension cables are made up of hundreds of smaller cables. But what if your suspension cables are losing their anchor? What if it feels like your bridge is broken or breaking?

Roman told me that even though he knew there was plenty of blue-sky above, he was feeling trapped on his life's-bridge. I cried. Have you ever felt that way before? I have.

We sat above the East River and took some time to look at the 8 bridges that spanned it—8 different bridges made to cross the same body of water.

When some time passed, I asked Roman a question, "What can we do to help you?" "I'm not sure," he said, "But I think I need to leave for awhile. I need some time and space to figure out how to rebuild my bridge."

What do you do when you don't know what to do? What do you do when your friend is weary, feeling small, when tears are in his eyes?

You find his "can't be found" friends when darkness comes and pain is all around him. You take his part.

You remind him the time has come to shine and his dreams are on their way.

You tell him: If you need friends, we're sailing right behind like a bridge over troubled waters. And maybe one day, the wind will bring him back.

Magnus Patterned Paper Nos. 1, 2, 3

2011-08-17T13:16:00.002-04:00

Yep. You can get these on The Jolly Troop Shop. Downloadable and sizable for your printer. Click here to be directed to the shop.

COLLECTION 1 / PATTERN NO. 1 / MAGNUS

COLLECTION 1 / PATTERN NO. 2 / MAGNUS

COLLECTION 1 / PATTERN NO. 3 / MAGNUS

Algernon's Afton

2011-08-15T12:17:00.003-04:00

Algernon wanted to treat the troop to some good R&R outta the city. So we packed our packs, took the Z-Breeze to Evanston, transferred to the N-Blast and landed at a little lake called Murphy in Bridger National Forest.

It was close to dusk when we arrived, so we set up sleeping arrangements immediately: girls on one side, boys on the other. The Upper Twin was having a bit of separation anxiety about the matter and bent Edward's ear about it.

Pascal, Penny and Silas prepped the camp fire for our tin-foil dinners. Why is it that you can stare into fire and never get bored? Why is it that food always tastes better when camping?

I'm usually always up before the sun—especially when the temperature drops below 40º.

Having separated during the night, The Twins were chilled due to the lack of body heat.

Algernon spent some time listening to the pines and watching the mist rise off the lake.

When Roman woke up, he began an immediate hunt for wild flowers...

... which caused Stilts to follow, whistling something from Tom Petty.

Yvette and Edward made some real progress in understanding the difference between bird calls and bird songs.

Pascal found his camouflage with the Indian paint brush and then immediately consumed them.

Just when we thought she couldn't get any better, Sophia pulled out a real show-stopper / jaw-dropper: tip-toeing on water.

Black Jack, Penny and Silas conjured Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer to help raft the lake.

Summers are for outings and camp outs and QT in the great outdoors with your favorite peeps.

Coloring Page: Sophia Carmella

2011-08-05T12:11:00.002-04:00

You "Met" her in the most perfect way! She's elegant and can tell stories better than any yellow fellow. Plus, she's determined to represent the female feathers of The Troop. She's our newest acquisition to our jolly collection: Sophia Carmella!

Black Jack Patterned Paper Nos. 1, 2, 3

2011-08-03T05:13:00.000-04:00

We've made some downloadable paper. We had to twist Black Jack's arm (wing??), but in the end he cooperated. These measure 12"x12" but can be formatted for your home printers. Check out this page in our The Jolly Troop Shop to get your fill of Red Fred's best mate: Black Jack!

COLLECTION 1 / PATTERN NO. 1 / BLACK JACK

COLLECTION 1 / PATTERN NO. 2 / BLACK JACK

COLLECTION 1 / PATTERN NO. 3 / BLACK JACK

Midnight Meeting at The Met

2011-08-01T08:17:00.008-04:00

You remember how Edward digs men's digs, right? Well, turns out he knows a thing or two about women's fashion, as well. He said he'd pay anybody's way that "met" up with him on Fifth Avenue and 82nd Street to see one of the most popular exhibits in New York's history. A few of the Troopers agreed. Roman and Algernon went with him to be finish-line judges for the racing duel between Black Jack and Penny.

After the squabble about the tie between the Troop's two most competitive birds, they made their way to their destination: The Metropolitan Museum of Art—also known by its nickname: "The Met." Edward explained a sad tale about the talented man whose work they were going to see, Alexander McQueen. "Sometimes," Roman replied, "art is sad and beautiful."

The atrium was buzzing with people intent on seeing Mr McQueen's show, Savage Beauty. The waiting time was listed for 2.5 hours! Just when they were about to turn around (even though Edward and Roman would have stayed), they were approached by a beautiful and elegant yellow bird. "Hello. My name is Sophia Carmella and I can get you to the front of the line." The boys gulped, stared and nodded in silence. Penny stifled a laugh.

Roman asked Sophia to stop before they entered so he could pose with the Rodin. "I've always wanted to be The Walking Man," he confessed. "You wear bronze well, Mr Times," Sophia admitted, "If I didn't know better, I would think you were a Burgher." "Yeah," said Black Jack, "he's a real Big Mac."

THE WALKING MAN by RODIN

After they visited Savage Beauty, they discussed the paradox of calling something "savage" and "beautiful." This prompted Sophia to take them to the sculpture courtyard where all was dark, quiet and after hours. With a golden voice, she told them tales about Sappho—one of the world's great lyric poets. "Some would say it was savage that women were rarely recognized for their extraordinary gifts or that her poetry is all but lost. How can something so beautiful be forgotten?"

SAPPHO by COMTE PROSPER D'EPINAY

Did you know that this face was cut from stone? Did you know the stone is marble and that it comes from a place in France called Saint-Béat?

DETAIL from UGOLINO AND HIS SONS by JEAN-BAPTISTE CARPEUX

Some people believe a famous sculptor said: Every block of stone has a statue inside of it.

DETAIL from UGOLINO AND HIS SONS by JEAN-BAPTISTE CARPEUX

Sometimes beautiful things take time to create. Sometimes rocky things end up being the most delicate. Sometimes patience and determination can create something miraculous.

DETAIL from UGOLINO AND HIS SONS by JEAN-BAPTISTE CARPEUX

The girls tip-toed onto the shoulder of the goddess of beauty. "Venus really was a savage beauty—" whispered Sophia. "Although she was beautiful, she was rebellious and quick to judge. Too bad she didn't realize beauty is more than skin deep."

VENUS by ANTONIO CANOVA

Sometimes beautiful things cause people to act savagely. "Paris started a war and launched 1,000 ships to abduct a beautiful woman," remarked Sophia. "Beauty can blind us to reason if we aren't watchful."

PARIS by ANTONIO CANOVA

VASE WITH THE ATTRIBUTES OF AUTUMN by NICOLAS-SEBASTIAN ADAM

Sophia's stories went on for hours, past midnight, atop an autumnal vase. She taught the Troop about great myths, legends and histories that served as the backbone to many of the world's most significant works of art. An ever-listening Algernon quietly stated, "It seems that art is simply story-telling with chisels and paint and thread."

In the dark halls of The Met, Sophia brought her stories to a close with an intriguing last-thought: "If you really want to know the great secret to great art," she softly whispered to the spellbound Troop, "Identify something sad or unfortunate that has happened in your life and make something beautiful out of it."

Invigorated and enlightened from a long day at The Met, the Troop took their time flying home with a new acquisition for their jolly collection: an elegant, yellow bird with a knack for story-telling.

Coloring Page: We, 3D

2011-07-29T08:44:00.000-04:00

Becoming acrylic this week was like going into another dimension.

Acrylics

2011-07-27T12:27:00.001-04:00

Bugs are usually the first ones to show up in the windowsill, but not today. Lookee what we have here: acrylic silhouettes of us. Looks like the sun shines brightest in our center. How about you?

The Empire State Building

2011-07-25T06:42:00.003-04:00

Nicknames are quizzical things and their interest builds when you discover the reasons behind them."Stilts" (our friend who goes by his nickname—he's the tall, blue fellow) suggested the entire Troop visit New York's nickname building: the Empire State Building!

As we exited the elevator on the 86th floor and climbed upon the guard rail, Silas yelled, "You can all call me Batman!" Stilts quietly corrected him, "You can't give yourself a nickname. A nickname is given to you by somebody—like a friend—that has known you since your beginning or for a very long time." Silas grumbled and remained upside down.

Problems, like the world, look very different when you see them from above or from a distance.

Sometimes it takes standing on shoulders to see something close-up.

Being so high up and close to the buildings, Pascal recalled the 1933 film of King Kong while Penny thought about the possibilites of being in the Macy's Day Parade. Silas just looked below at all the tiny people and began singing, "Birdie, birdie in the sky..."

Did you know The Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world in 1931? Can you find all the hidden Troopers on the tops of the building?

Did you know the tower lights have meaning? Did you know they turn off every night/morning at 2:00 a.m.?

With our tail feathers to the masses, peering over the edge, The Twins spotted two faces in the crowd that appeared somewhat familiar. "It's her... and him!" said the Upper Twin; "No, it's not them. They don't live here," debated the Under Twin. The matter settled when the faces got up and close. There—on top of the world—were The Cliff and The Mexican!

There is an incredible magic that happens when you run into a friend in an unlikely place; there is an unmistakeable feeling you feel sitting in the hands of a friend that has supported you from a great distance—especially when you're 1,250 feet above the ground.

There is a perspective you see when you spend time with someone that has been there since your beginning.

Time sped ahead. They had to leave and we had to go, so we made plans for pizza the next day. Seeing them was something unexpected and splendid—kinda like a rainbow without rain.

Coloring Page: Chicago Word Cage

2011-07-22T15:02:00.001-04:00

Today's coloring page is a Word Cage for the place we visited this last wk. Want a hint? It's nickname is The Windy City. Click, download and print. Here's to the kiddos!

First Book is Available!

2011-07-20T08:13:00.001-04:00

Great news! The first Jolly Troop book, Introducing Red Fred Bodoni & The Jolly Troop, is ready for your eyes and heart! It's 56 pages of full color story-telling about how I was created, what it means to "pause & rejoice" and why my pals are fantastic. Below, you can read the entire book - cool, eh? If you'd like to purchase it, there is an option for that as well! We're excited to be in your home... on a night stand... next to some of your favorite books and LittleOnes!

Introducing Red Fred Bodoni & The Jolly Troop by Dallas Graham | Make Your Own Book

Chicago Preps

2011-07-18T18:49:00.000-04:00

We're headed to The Windy City for a design show (thanks history-maps.com for the cool map!). We've never been there (the show or Chicago). In addition to patterned paper and cards, we're dressing up in some different ways:

as acrylic...

as ultra-board (and hopefully not ultra-bored)...

as felt ornaments...

as a tote...

as pillowy-plush...

and as a book!

We'll let you know how things turn out! Blow some extra wind in our direction!

Coloring Page: Book Cover

2011-07-15T14:01:00.000-04:00

With our first book almost to our mailbox, we thought you'd like to color your own cover of the first Jolly Troop book! Check out the earlier posts for some color-character reminders or get creative and color them however you want! As always, just click, download and print to enjoy this new coloring page! Kiddos unite!

Preview Spreads for New Book

2011-07-13T14:42:00.005-04:00

We just sent the files off to the printer for our first book! It's called:

Introducing Red Fred Bodoni & The Jolly Troop (hard name to conjure, eh?)

Thought you'd like to see a few sample spreads. Measuring 7"x7", it's 56 colorful pages of pure jolly! Since we are publishing independently with Blurb, we'll let you know when the book has hatched so you can snatch one up. We like your eyes.

J. T. Time with T. J.

2011-07-12T07:45:00.006-04:00

Magnus and Yvette were in cahoots planning a trip between two bookend holidays in July: Independence Day and Bastille Day. Magnus wanted to recite the Declaration of Independence in an all-American place, but Yvette wanted something with a French flair. They put their minds together, roped in some recruits and stormed The Jefferson Memorial!

Yvette and Edward took 14 minutes (for le quatorze juillet) discussing the Ionic columns. "Surely they wouldn't be as great without the egg-and-dart ornamentals," Yvette mused. "Perhaps," paused Edward, "but I still prefer Corinthian." A wide-eyed Silus shook his head and mumbled something about being imprisoned.

Roman and Magnus were struck by its similarities to The Pantheon and The Rotunda. Penny found a precarious place and thought about the balance between independence and freedom.

Yvette swoons for T. J. because he was a minister to France; Penny has a weakness for polymaths, in general.

Caught in the coffers above T. J., the boys thought about "tyranny over the mind of man."

Did you know that T. J. is considered the author of The Declaration of Independence?

Did you know that T. J. was governor of Virginia, U.S. minister to France, Secretary of State (under Washington), Vice President (under Adams), and President of the United States? Did you know he was also the Father of The University of Virginia? Did you know T. J. was a botanist, an architect, and started the Library of Congress with his own collection of books?

The colonnade was perfect for Huckle Buckle Beanstalk and rounds of Frère Jacques.

Magnus thought it would be better to hear The Declaration of Independence recited by its author than by him. The others agreed. So, T. J. recited the entire thing, right there in the memorial. Of course, Magnus mouthed the entire thing – just to prove a point.

Roman and Edward tried identifying the typeface used on the wall panels throughout the memorial. Do you know what it is?

To avoid another world war, the girls took their squabbling — about who T. J. liked more — outdoors. They conceded to share liking privileges, which granted them each cooing rights whenever they visited. T. J. approved of their resolution method: good debate and discussion backed with reason.

As the Troop made its final rounds around the memorial, they felt T. J.'s firework-phrasing sink in. Maybe it was an unseen jet stream or maybe it was the timely, echoing words, but the flight home seemed less strenuous and more like a pursuit of happiness.

Coloring Page: Red Fred, Yvette, Pascal & The Invisible Dog (sans leash)

2011-06-24T16:29:00.000-04:00

Red Fred, Yvette, Pascal and The Invisible Dog that got out of his leash! Click, download, print and please draw in The Invisible Dog!

Red Fred & Yvette See The Invisible Dog

2011-06-20T15:53:00.002-04:00

Yvette has been missing her Monmartre balcony and "It misses me, too," she said, "We have a very unique relationship." While she was trying to explain it, we came upon a curious art gallery on Bergen Street: The Invisible Dog. "Sounds like a dangerous place for a couple of birds," I said. Yvette pulled me in mumbling something about "no appreciation for art."

We entered into a star-conspiracy of sorts because we were greeted by a cardinal-looking fellow floating on a dog leash. "Bonjour! My name is Pascal Effloresce and this is The Invisible Dog." I blinked a few times, trying to see the dog. Yvette seemed to recognize it immediately.

Pascal started showing us around the art center. I couldn't help thinking: seeing and understanding art can sometimes appear to be an obstacle. "Seeing takes more than your eyes," Pascal mused.
OBSTACLE by STEVEN AND WILLIAM LADD

Yvette saw some extraordinary textile lamps. She flew around them like a fairy reciting Helen Keller: We differ, blind and seeing, one from another, not in our senses, but in the use we make of them, in the imagination and courage which we seek wisdom beyond our senses.
TEXTILE LAMPS by STEVEN AND WILLIAM LADD

Did you know this chandelier was made from found buckles left behind in the factory? Did you know chandelier is a French would that means "something that holds candles"?
MINI CHANDELIER by STEVEN AND WILLIAM LADD

This artist saw a universe made of canvas belts. What do you see the universe in?
FABRIC OF COSMOS by IAN TRASK

The distance from Purgatory to Heaven seemed more realistic when Pascal flew to the top of the industrial elevator shaft and began reading verses from Divine Comedy. Yvette and I agreed: Mr Alighieri would have enjoyed this.
CHARON by GIUSEPPE STAMPONE

We must have channeled Nino Frank because we saw a perfect opportunity to re-create a film noir scene in the basement. Two boys just can't pass up the chance to make a girl cry.

Once Yvette recovered, we flew back up to the main level to a sea of books. We took a few minutes thinking about the amount of art created from texts, poems, and books. Do you think writers are like muses for artists? Yvette shared another quote, this time by Annie Dillard: She read books as one would breathe air, to fill up and live. She read books as one would breathe ether, to sink in and die.
JOB CREATION IN A BAD ECONOMY by ANTONIA WRIGHT AND RUBEN MILLARES [DETAIL]

How often do we misunderstand something because we don't see it from both sides?
TELPERION by ETHAN LONG [DETAIL]

Aren't you glad the French love their gardens?

When we swept back through the exhibit to see anything we missed, I realized I had gained a better understanding of art and of seeing. Sometimes seeing the invisible is important. Sometimes seeing things differently opens your eyes to providence.

I asked Pascal whom he would bring to the gallery if time and circumstance didn't matter. "My mother, (she passed away in 2003) just to have coffee with her everyday at 11:00am." As my eyes teared, they opened and the most magical / strange thing happened: I could see The Invisible Dog with Yvette and Pascal. "Let's get moving," called Pascal, "the croissants are calling!"

The Invisible Dog
51 Bergen Street
Brooklyn NY 11201
www.theinvisibledog.org

Coloring Page: Jolly Scoop

2011-06-17T12:19:00.000-04:00

We're trying to stay cool during our New York summer. What flavors should we be? Click, download, and color us your favorite ice-cream dream!

New "About Movie"!

2011-06-14T10:04:00.000-04:00

Lots of you know how I came about, but maybe don't know some of the particulars. Here is a little "About Movie" called The Anatomy of Red Fred Bodoni. It's on YouTube and I'd recommend clicking there so the screen is bigger! We like it! Do you like the music in the background? It's Jónsi's song "Around Us."

Enjoy! You can find the movie in the nav bar above, too!

The Jolly Troop Visits Blue Marble Ice Cream

2011-06-13T12:53:00.005-04:00

It's been awhile since the entire Troop has been able to do something together. So when Magnus informed us that Silas Savoye had decided to join The Jolly Troop and was meeting us at Blue Marble Ice Cream, we figured this was the perfect time and the perfect place to get together.

As we lifted each other up to see through the shop window, The Twins asked, "But is it really the perfect time and the perfect place? What is the perfect time and perfect place? Or more to the point, what is the perfect world?

There were as many opinions as there were birds.

The lines, the order and the options reminded us of Sir Thomas Moore's Utopia. "If Utopia had a flavor, it would be Blue Marble's strawberry ice-cream," drooled Penny.

The blue sprinkles made Algernon and Roman think of their tall, gangly-legged pal, Stilts. "Which path to Moksha are the sprinkles on?"

Did you know the name blue marble is another name for Earth? Did you know tile has been used for over 4000 years in order to make things more beautiful?

Edward surprised us when he dove head first into a little boy's ice-cream cone. I guess he loses all scruples when he sees chocolate chocolate chip ice-cream. What's amazing is that the boy just let him eat. Black Jack witnessed the whole thing and couldn't help but wonder: maybe Brooklyn IS the best place on Earth...

We sat on some of Blue Marble's biodegradable containers and thought about ways to keep our planet perfect.

When some of the Troop fancied a beautiful photograph, they all stopped for a moment. They learned it was a photograph of Rwandan countryside. When they inquired about Rwanda being connected to this ice-cream shop, they heard and saw the most amazing story. Stilled and quiet after watching, all Magnus could say was, "Elysian Fields." Yvette turned to him, quizzically and whispered, "I love it too, but now is not the time to be thinking of my favorite shopping street in Paris!"

When the line slimmed down, we gave our order to Eddie. He recommended the a scoop of coconut almond and a scoop of cookies and cream.

Just then, Silas flew in! It was a frenzy of feathers as we talked about his flight, Rwandan ice-cream, and our neighborhood haunts. Maybe the perfect world is new friends meeting old friends over ice-cream. Maybe the perfect world is right here, right now. And maybe the perfect world will melt unless you enjoy it immediately.

As The Jolly Troop flew out the door, Black Jack hung back with me for a few split seconds. Seeing our friends dizzy with happiness and ice-cream bellies was the perfect dessert.

Blue Marble Ice-Cream

196 Court Street

Brooklyn, NY

bluemarbleicecream.com

Coloring Page: Stilts and Roman

2011-06-10T07:08:00.001-04:00

Green or blue, good friends are true!

Here's the weekly Friday coloring page showcasing Roman and Stilts. Just click, download, and print. If you're interested in other coloring pages, scroll down the blog and look on the right side under "labels" and you'll find "coloring pages". Have a great Friday!

T-Shirt: Enlightened

2011-06-08T09:02:00.001-04:00

Stilts and Roman nearly reached enlightenment! So close that their feathers changed colors for a few, brief seconds. We captured it on this t-shirt! If you'd like your own, click here. The top image is the shirt in green tones. The image below that is in gray tones.

Stilts Visits Ananda Ashram

2011-06-06T10:07:00.011-04:00

Stilts has been feeling blurry lately. Do you ever feel that way? Unclear, garbled, or fuzzy-sighted? He decided to take some time in the Catskills to refocus and refresh his mind, body, and spirit.

His yoga teacher suggested he visit an ashram—a place where he could practice yoga, be close to nature, meditate, and be surrounded by like-minded folks. So Stilts took a bus upstate and stopped at Ananda Ashram. It looked perfect. It even had a white picket fence.

As soon as he entered the ashram, he found The Enlightened One and immediately perched on his knee. "I can't see the forest for its trees, Buddha. Can you help me out?" Stilts asked. Buddha smiled and nodded his head and then whispered wisdom into Stilts' ear. When Buddha was finished Stilts thanked him and flew off to think about what he had learned.

Stilts landed at the ashram's bird bath at the same moment as another bird. After exchanging a friendly greeting, the new bird chimed, "I'm Roman Times. I'm from the Upper West Side and have never been to an ashram before." Stilts suggested they take one more dip and then explore the place together while he shared Buddha's words of wisdom.

When they arrived at the bridge by the lake, Stilts rehearsed: Breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness, which unites your body to your thoughts.

When they reached the lake, Roman flew over the glass as Stilts shared: Let yourself be open and life will be easier. A spoon of salt in a glass of water makes the water undrinkable. A spoon of salt in a lake is almost unnoticed.

Did you know Tibetans put prayers on flags because they believe the prayers will be blown by the winds to spread compassion?

Did you know that deer are associated to Buddha's first teaching in Deer Park? Can you imagine being so peaceful that even animals would stop to listen?

As they made their way through the woods, Stilts and Roman came upon a stack of logs. "If these trees could talk..." but before Stilts could finish his thoughts, Roman yelled, "I love that post-rock band!" There was an awkward moment of silence as they realized their sync had sunk for a moment.

They found a dense collection of leaves and decided to think in silence. Before they began, Stilts shared: Meditate. Live purely. Be quiet. Do your work with mastery. Like the moon, come out from behind the clouds...

Shine!

As they walked back through the woods, they stopped to look at the sun peering through the branches. In this quiet moment, they felt a rush of realization: they were seeing the forest for its trees.

As they rounded the lawn near the garden, Stilts turned to Roman,"You know, Roman, I think you would really like my friends. We call ourselves The Jolly Troop. You should do a fly-by sometime because... well, 'birds of a feather flock together.'" Roman smiled gratefully and replied with some Emerson: The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when he discovers that someone else believes in him and is willing to trust him with his friendship. And just like that, a new friendship was formed.

Coloring Page: Algernon and Minerva

2011-06-03T11:54:00.000-04:00

Algernon is grateful for older and wiser friends, like Minerva. Click, download, and color. Who is your older, wiser friend?

Court & Sackett Street Mural: Preparations

2011-05-31T05:55:00.004-04:00

*A great lover of Brooklyn AND this building wrote in and asked us a great question: are we allowed to do this? The answer is yes. We have written permission from the owner of the building! Thankful for the thoughtful follow-up, we hope to add to the already-existing charm of Carroll Gardens!

--

We're planning to paint ourselves into our Brooklyn neighborhood. On the corner of Sackett and Court, there is a building that houses residents, Area Yoga, and an undisclosed "work in progress" on the street level. A interesting type of plywood has been more or less wrapped around the street level section of the building. This is the space we are going to infuse.

This first image is from Google Maps and gives you (and us) an idea of what is being covered.

This next image was shot by Dallas on Memorial Day with his friend Jim. The grid he created was based off the individual plywood piece dimensions that cover the building, which (for the most part) run 4' x 8'. There is some fudging on the pieces closest to the corner (3' x 8') but we've taken that into account.

So, this next image gives you an idea of the size we are growing to be and how we plan to look on the surface. Looks like a great time and we have plenty of room to grow with new Troopers! We'll keep you posted on the progress, as well as adding a new label entitled "Street Mural" so you can see all the posts for this specific project. Want a Jolly Mural in your city or neighborhood? Send Dallas a message and we'll see what we can do about that!

Algernon Visits Green-Wood Cemetery

2011-05-30T00:39:00.006-04:00

Algernon wanted to spend some time thinking about Memorial Day this year because war and death and freedom aren't always easy to understand. So he headed off to Green-Wood Cemetery to visit a friend who could help him out.

The flying buttresses at the entrance to the cemetery made Algernon wonder: can something be beautiful and sad at the same time?

Algernon was quiet as he started up Battle Avenue. Did you know that the first battle fought after the signing of the Declaration of Independence was fought in Brooklyn?

While Algernon was flying towards the Civil War Lot, he tried recalling the different names of the Civil War, but gave up. He was overwhelmed by the number of headstones.

The Civil War Lot was quiet except for the flags flapping by the headstones of people that fought in the war. He thought about the reasons for the Civil War and his favorite line from the Declaration of Independence: "all men are created equal." This raised a big question in his mind: if all men are created equal, then why is there war?

Even though Memorial Day was created to remember people that have died in service to our nation, Algernon couldn't help stopping by the beautiful headstones of everyday people that had died serving other everyday people.

Algernon made his way to the Altar to Liberty to meet his friend. Standing on the altar, lost in thought, he heard a strong but gentle, familiar voice, "Come sit on my shoulder, old friend." Algernon smiled and flew up to perch on Minerva.

"If all men are created equal, then why is there war, Minerva?" The Goddess of Wisdom spoke softly and kindly, "No matter the time or place, war is never easy to understand. But friendship is. War happens because people forget their commonality with one another. Friendship is remembering our commonality with one another. War happens because people forget their equality with one another. Friendship is remembering our equality with one another. War happens because we allow our differences to divide us. Friendship is remembering that our differences enrich us."

Did you know that Minerva salutes and faces her friend, The Statue of Liberty? Did you know that The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to America and that the two nations were called "sisters?"

As Algernon paused to reflect on Minerva's words, a simple theory distilled in his heart: if time and distance come between friends, nothing can separate them if they keep each other in sight and remember to wave. Watching visitors of the deceased arrive at the cemetery helped him realize that friendship and love transcend time and space. Remembering others that serve the Greater Good will always be important.

And that's why on his way out, Algernon stopped at the entrance gate to make friends with some feral monks: the parrots of Green-Wood Cemetery.

Green-Wood Cemetery
500 25th Street
Brooklyn, NY 11232
718-768-7300
www.green-wood.com

Coloring Page: A Penny For Your Thought

2011-05-27T07:51:00.001-04:00

Do you know where "a penny for your thought" came from?

Click, download, and print this little page of our favorite Penny, always in our thoughts!

Paper: Patterns with Penny

2011-05-25T08:41:00.002-04:00

Some patterns sketching we did with Penny...

Penny Strikes Black Gold

2011-05-23T07:41:00.002-04:00

The other morning Penny was running somewhere (as usual) and ran across a window that made her stop fast in her tracks. As she stared at the gorgeous gold-lettering she saw a magical place beyond the window. Though she was pressed for time, she hopped into Black Gold to take a spin.

She met an old, chipped Boston terrier and asked him how long Black Gold had been around. "I've been around for decades but this place will be a year old this coming Memorial Day." When she asked him about the name Black Gold he directed her to the pretty lady at the counter.

The pretty lady, Sommer, told Penny, "The name Black Gold ties all of our ideas and offerings together. We wanted a warm and inviting place. It's pretty much a cleaner and more organized re-creation of my living room, except everything is for sale."

Did you know a gold record is a musical recording that has sold over 500,000 copies for an album and over 1 million copies for a single? (When Penny saw a record of Band of Horses she spazzed out, did a beak stand and started singing For Annabelle).

Did you know "black gold" is another name for "cup of Joe" which is another name for "mud" which is another name for "tar" which is another name for coffee? (Penny raced along Black Gold's Rook.)

Did you know these kind of light cages are called "trouble lights"?

Did you know that Foxy Loxy was reading Mein Kampf in the 1943 version of Chicken Little? When Penny heard this, she ran right up to stare Foxy Loxy in the eyes and dared him to a race. He growled at her due to his taxidermic condition so she did a victory dance on his nose, "This one is for Henny Penny!"

To calm herself down, she buzzed over to the turn-table. The now-docile spotted hyena was informing the ceramic cherub that female hyenas dominate the male hyenas and outweigh them by three pounds. Penny couldn't help yelling "Girls rule!"

Penny posed for a picture with some other female folk which led to a discussion of Black Gold's name connection to HW Brands' book about the gold rush. Not primed for a book review, Penny decided she'd rather spend some quality time with the pastries.

Black Gold's selection of SCRATCHbread's V-bars and gold bars gave Penny a good reason to tack on an additional 6 miles to her daily run.

Before she left, Penny asked Sommer, "If you could bring anybody to Black Gold, who would it be?" Sommer smiled, "Lux Interior. But any time my dad stops by, he tells me a new story from his life as a musician. He never ceases to blow my mind." This reminded Penny to get in touch with her dad and tell him how great he was.

When Penny turned to leave, Sommer stopped her and pointed at the mural in the back, just beyond the curtains. "The mural will take you wherever you want to go. It's faster. Just say "Black Gold" as you run towards it." Penny blinked twice and then ran as fast as she could towards the mural. In a flash of feathers she found herself laughing and running over the river and through the woods.

Black Gold
461 Court Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
blackgoldbrooklyn.com

Coloring Page: The Twins & Edward

2011-05-20T08:55:00.000-04:00

We've had a great time welcoming Edward into the Troop. Here he is with his pals, The Hoefler Twins. Click, download, and print this page out and enjoy suiting up the three any way you'd like.

Paper: Patterns With Algernon

2011-05-18T10:26:00.000-04:00

We're getting closer and closer to being able to provide some incredible paper, via downloads. Algernon wanted to take a stab at it after he saw what was done with RFB. Our intention is to make these pieces available in 12"x12" format. Stay with us!

Meet Edward Ian Script

2011-05-17T09:19:00.001-04:00

Even though there is a fairly popular Edward right now (if you're into fangs, teen novels, and do-good vampires), this Edward doesn't want to compete for name-status. Why? He's a gentleman. Through and through. He knows when to stand, when to apologize, when to discuss politics at a party, or when to phone if running late to an appointment. He's the patron bird for John Bridges and claims one of his best students has gone on to become a spy with a three-digit codename. With an impeccable eye for men's detailing, this is the gent you want on your side whether you're deciding between straight blade or electric or need to know the social difference between white tie and black tie. Lastly, you know what he'll say if you're trying to step up your male-social-confidence, right?

"Yes. It's true. Real men wear pink."

ITC Edwardian Script was designed by Edward Benguiat. We're going to see if we can meet him!

The Twins & Olaf's

2011-05-16T00:30:00.008-04:00

With Spring springing, The Twins have been talking about new duds. They are the first to admit they aren't Scott Schumann (aka The Sartorialist), but since they see twice as much as the rest of us, they have a good knack of finding the quizzical and the curious. That's how they spotted Olaf's Men's Vintage.

Entering the front door, they immediately spotted the typewriter. "It isn't a Sholes & Glidden," said the first, "And it ain't no MacBook Air, either," said the second. "They just don't make them like they used to," they said in unison.

One of The Twins spotted a nice pair of wingtips, ideal for weekend trips to the shore. Suddenly, a voice from above asked, "Are you poaching my Brogues?" The Twins blinked, unsure of what to say. "I'm kidding. Their yours. I have 3 pairs. And hello. My name is Edward. Edward Ian Script. Shall I show you around?"

The under-Twin hefted the other birds up to the upper-body rack. "They've got everything," chimed Edward, "but if you're in Brooklyn, you wear plaid. I prefer Pendleton to Penguin."

Next, Edward pulled them over to view his favorite antique in the store: a rotary phone. As he nestled up to it and waxed eloquent, The Twins faded from the history lesson because they spotted a relic Rolling Stones sticker. This quickly initiated a debate between who was better: The Rolling Stones or Queen.

They tried helping Edward find some "seasonal appropriate" boots.

The Twins found more collectibles: pewter steins, burlap sacks, coin-collecting books, and even a pair of antlers mounted on crushed red velvet.

Ever the gentlemen, Edward took some time with the Lampshade Ladies discussing the Victorians' effect on modern-day sports. "Without the Victorians, we'd all be a bag of bones." Immediately, the ladies' eyes narrowed and they asked if he'd like to volunteer to join their badminton game: "We've lost our birdy." Edward bowed just in time to dodge the racquet.

Trying to see the bright side of his NDE and knowing his love for the game, The Twins suggested Edward consider donating his feathers to shuttlecock-science. An awkward silence followed.

"Or how about Tennis? What's more American than tennis?" The Twins asked. "Well, for starters: corn flakes, The Fourth of July, baseball, Chow mein, and Virginia Ham..." Edward melodically mumbled.

All three birds sat and stared at the Grundig Majestic. "German designers... they just don't make them like they used to," Edward whispered. The Twins readily agreed with him.

But maybe the best treasure they found was something that hit close to home for all of them: an old typography book. The Twins had examined the typeface earlier when they were looking through the "O" at the window. Now with Olaf's logotype in front of them, Edward did some sleuthing: "From the looks of it, I'd say Engravers Shaded. I wonder where the birds are?"

The Twins looked at the antiquated clock on the wall and realized they were out of time. "You should come meet The Jolly Troop, Edward," the over-Twin suggested. "It would be my pleasure," he replied. And with that, the three flew over the heads of two french men, a beautiful lady, and a black dog into the Court Street air of Brooklyn.

Olaf's Men Vintage
453 Court Street
Brooklyn (Carroll Gardens)
(347) 457-5796
www.olafsmensvintage.blogspot.com

Portlandia: Put A Bird On It

2011-05-14T13:25:00.000-04:00

Too true.

Coloring Page: Magnus and Silas

2011-05-13T16:51:00.001-04:00

Magnus and Silas are best buds. Who is your pal? Click, download, and print! Send it back to us when you're done to redfredbodoni@gmail.com.

Paper: Patterns in the Pipeline

2011-05-11T09:52:00.001-04:00

What could be better to infuse "jolly" than Red Fred Bodoni paper? We've asked 4 designers to take Red Fred's shapes, colors, and meaning and come up with their own lines! All these pieces will be available to download soon so keep your eyes on The Jolly Blog. Below are three jolly-filled samples of one of our designers. Looking at these this morning will definitely cause you to Pause & Rejoice!

Our main goal is to send Red Fred Bodoni & The Jolly Troop to the windy city! We think that if we can get him in front of a few thousand eyes, the wind there will propel him into high production! We are going to have these patterns available as actual 12"x12" pieces by then!

So keep us on your radar! Subscribe to the blog. Follow us on Twitter (redfredbodoni) or Facebook (Red Fred Bodoni) to be reminded when things pop up!

T-Shirt: Magnus and Ground Squirrel

2011-05-10T18:51:00.000-04:00

Magnus made a good pal while in La Jolla. Ground Squirrel is out to protect and serve! Click here to see the ways Ground Squirrel can be worn!

Jolly en La Jolla

2011-05-10T11:21:00.008-04:00

Magnus took some time off this weekend to heat up his blood (the Brooklyn winter chilled him), open his mind (even he has to brain-dump), and reconnect with an old friend, Silas Savoye, in La Jolla.

Silas suggested they meet at the tree in front of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, just beneath the Nancy Rubin sculpture.

From there they met up with a local that gave them the dish on the recent developments of the beach they were visiting: Seal Beach / Children's Pool Beach. Apparently, the seal-folk and the people-folk seem to be sparring for beach usage.

But before they got too involved in the political/environmental discussion, they debated whether Dorthy & Co were simply in California instead of Oz. "Si, you have to recant! She was surrounded by the state flower!" Magnus interjected. The fact Silas couldn't see Magnus all that well added to the heat of the debate.

They headed to the seaside next. Magnus hovered a bit, mesmerized by intensity of the algae. "This is fascinating Chlorobionta" he said. "You mean rock fur?" Silas mumbled under his breath.

Did you know that Native Americans called this area "Land of the Holes"?

Magnus said flying the coast with the pelicans was a rush!

After a number of spins with the pelicans, Magnus was completely surprised when Silas got melancholy when they landed near some sandstone graffiti. Silas warbled on and on about "Ashley" and that "the rumors must be true." Magnus was quick to do the math and decided to stand by his friend in silence so that Si could have his moment. That's what friends do. He would ask about the graffiti later.

Finally, Silas shook off the sad. They plunged their heads into a nearby shallow pool and dared each other to stick their beaks into the anemones. "Whoever can't spell it goes first," Magnus suggested.

They spent the next few hours talking about school days, road trips, and past crushes. When Silas told Magnus Ashley had feelings for him years ago, Magnus fell out of the tree. "Man can't take a joke," Silas sighed to himself.

Finally, they spent some time with the seals and got the details on the controversy of the Seal Beach/Children's Pool Beach. Apparently, the seals simply want some space to lay and the local human-folk are having a hard time allowing it. It's to the point that people have been seen throwing rocks at the seals, trying to get them to leave. "My pup was hit on the noggin," one she-seal shared. Both Magnus and Silas felt their feathers fluster at the thought. They told her they would happily offer their "white-wash" services on some oblivious, nearby humans.

Evening crept in and the friends looked at the sinking sun. "I better get going," Magnus said. "Why don't you come back with me and join up with The Jolly Troop?" "Sounds tempting and like a good offer," said Silas. "Can I think about it and let you know?" "Can you spell anemone yet?" They laughed a bit more and Magnus took off, leaving Silas with some good thoughts to stew on.

Coloring Page: Black Jack's Stripes

2011-05-06T16:01:00.000-04:00

Try coloring Black Jack's stripes. Click, download, print and add to the other coloring pages of The Jolly Troop.

T-Shirt: Black Jack's Stripes

2011-05-04T00:01:00.001-04:00

Black Jack thought he'd show you some color. Click here to see it on different colors or different models: hoodies, totes, or v-necks!

Black Jack Meets Four and Twenty Blackbirds

2011-05-01T21:51:00.010-04:00

Have you been to the place where pies go when they die? During one of his usual solo days, Black Jack found it. It's an insanely delicious pie shop called Four and Twenty Blackbirds. Obviously drawn to the name and his love for lyric, he found out some interesting details about this one-of-a-kind pie shop.

The name of the pie shop comes from an old nursery rhyme, Sing a Song of Sixpence. Owners/sisters, Emily and Melissa, thought this was a good name because it was nostalgic–like pie is. It's also kinda funny and weird because it talks about kings, queens, and noses being pecked off. "What would you do if you were enslaved in a pie?" Black Jack asked with heated sympathy, "Clearly, it was self defense."

Never to let a physical challenge go unchallenged, he made good use of the ceiling fan. "I'd give it a 3.7 as far as gauntlet exercises go," he drawled.

Interiors aren't his thing. Or so we thought. We were speechless when he went on about the Old English chic, vintage avian prints, and wood molding. But when he dropped "Martha would like the pussy willow," Yvette flew off screaming like a modern-day Chicken Little.

A couple locals filled him in on the pie-inspiration: the owners learned the fundamentals of pie-making from their grandmother, who baked pies for The Calico Kitchen (their mother's restaurant).

Before he ordered, Black Jack got lost in the kitchen. Supposedly, he was checking to make sure there weren't any more birds being "encrusted in pastry." Can you see him?

After he found a table, he ordered the Salty Carmel Apple. It's on par with the Salty Honey. He flew around it a bit and then dove in head first.

Did you know "chess pie" is a Southern word for "custard pie"?

Did you know that in medieval times, pie crust was only used as a baking vessel, not meant to be eaten?

Did you know the phrase "humble pie" comes from a type of pie that was made using "umbles" or innards of animals?

How did he like it? He calls it Belly-up Bliss.

On his way out, he asked the owners, Emily and Melissa, a curious question: "If you could give a piece of pie to anybody in the world, under any circumstance, who would it be?" "Our grandmothers," they said. "They were both avid bakers and they both passed before we opened our business. If we could teleport them our pie for approval that would be pretty awesome."

As Black Jack left the shop, he nodded at the sign just outside the door. "Hmmmm. Pretty cool to find out Heaven is just a few blocks from home."

Coloring Page: Jolly Peace

2011-04-29T05:00:00.004-04:00

It takes everybody to make peace. Click, download, and print.

Preview: Red Fred Bodoni, Pattern No. 1

2011-04-27T08:07:00.002-04:00

We are working with some good friends that also happen to be good designers. They are coming up with patterns that we are going to make into paper. The intention is to preview these next week and then have a space online to purchase the paper - it'll be a download until we can have them created.

This is Pattern No. 1, designed by Dallas. Three other designers will show you their spin on RFB, making the collection varied and fantastic.

Coloring Page: An Anagram from Algernon

2011-04-22T08:58:00.002-04:00

With the Passover and Easter weekend closing in, Algernon wanted to contribute something unique. So he decided to make an anagram based on this seasonal celebration. Not only is Anagram his last name, an anagram is a word game where you mix up words to create others. For example: The Morse Code = Here Come Dots; or The Eyes = They See; or Astronomer = Moon Starer (we got these from Funny Anagrams). We included a nice illustration of the anagram, along with a coloring page that goes with it.

Up for a game? Here's how it works: the first person to respond with the correct anagram answer on our blog will receive 5 free "Thank You" Word Cage Cards (maybe we should have made a DIY Food Rag as the give-away...).

Good luck!

Yvette & Magnolia Tee / One-Piece

2011-04-20T08:44:00.001-04:00

Magnolia-inspired line drawing from Yvette's spin around Central Park last weekend. She named the tree Maggie. You can find the apparel here. Below are a few colors we liked as well as a baby one-piece.

Still... Magnolias.

2011-04-18T09:33:00.013-04:00

Spring is starting to peek up in New York. As such, Yvette thought it'd be a good idea to take a spin around Central Park this weekend. She is kind of obsessed with magnolias. There is a tree near the Central Park Zoo she claims as her own. No, she didn't buy the tree. No, she didn't plant it. She just claims to own it. She even calls it Maggie. At this point, you realize Yvette is a helpless romantic, right?

Knowing we were at her mercy of knowledge, she indulged herself by sharing some pretty interesting facts about magnolias.

Did you know the tree (or shrub, depending on which type you're looking at and whose company you're keeping) was named after a french botanist, Pierre Magnol?

She told Black Jack that the flowers are thought to have developed to encourage pollination by beetles, not bees. "Sure thing. And I'm a bat," was all he said.

Before she could tell him, Magnus pointed out that the magnolia was a design element of Mississippi's state flag up until 1864 and is the current state flower of Louisiana. A bit flustered, she turned to The Twins and repeated the exact same thing and then flew off in a huff.

Blanketed in petals, Penny was almost asleep (something she rarely does) when Yvette startled her by popping up to tell her that magnolia leaves are used for wrapping food in Japan! Penny turned to her, a little miffed, and asked, "What am I? Sushi?!"

She couldn't help but think of the the short story "Flowers for Algernon" when she found Al tucked away enjoying the quiet.

Finding his Zen beneath the pink, Stilts had some conversations with Yvette regarding the medicinal uses of some magnolias. Supposedly, the bark helps with anxiety, allergies, and asthma. All from bark?

Sometimes, a little Yvette goes a long way but in the end, we found a definite connection to her magnolia. We did, however, draw the line when she began assigning roles to re-enact scenes from Steel Magnolias. "It would just be so perfect while sitting in Maggy!"

Black Jack pushed her off the branch.

Coloring Page: Classic Troop

2011-04-15T12:14:00.002-04:00

It's been a long while since we posted up a coloring page! Here's our Friday post. Click on it, download, and then print out for your coloring frenzy.

If you can't quite remember which color goes where, just look at the blog masthead for visual hints (what's a masthead? Click here for a little education. Thanks dictionary.com).

But do you know what would be great to see? The Jolly Troop in Easter egg coloring fashion with stripes and dots and swirls. Or... how about camouflaged?!

Send us what you came up with through my email: redfredbodoni@gmail.com. If things pan towards sharing, we'll post them up here.

Ciao for now...

-rfb

A Fresh New Few

2011-04-12T10:02:00.002-04:00

I really, REALLY want to get The Jolly Troop pattern/craft paper moving. Depending on the day and who you ask, it's either easy or hard. The Jolly Troop has had some designs that we've featured before - and we're going to do those. However, we've decided to expand our circle and invite some crazy-talent to assist with our first collection of paper! These "fresh new few" are great friends of The Jolly Troop and incredible designers within their own right! Who are they, you ask? We'll let you know... very soon.

We're going to be working on Collection 1 with aims to show them off at CHA in July. Not the biggest of shows, but one that will help create an awareness of us and what we're about. We also hope to move the pattern paper into textiles, too.

Lastly, here is an illustration we put together. Thought it would work well for patterns, book covers, or a matching game. Thoughts?

We Felt More.

2011-03-22T15:28:00.001-04:00

We're on our way to our friends at Purl Soho. They were super friendly when we were asking about materials, colors, and helps for creating the felties. They were interested in the final results, so we're going to reply.

There might be a change with the hanging loop. We like the same color strand, but may find a better and thinner solution.

In addition, we've made some good ways at La Casita Yarn Shop Café. Folks kinda went crazy (in a good way) when they saw the felties. They have loads of yarn in massive amounts and tucked away in the back is a counter with quiches and empanadas (I preferred the spinach). We hope to maintain a good relationship with them as they are a great community craft provider.

Japan

2011-03-14T21:18:00.001-04:00

Finally... Felting Algernon

2011-03-13T17:14:00.001-04:00

We went ahead and took a spin with felt. Algernon was down with modeling which we were grateful for b/c... everybody loves Algernon. Some needles, some scissors, some thread and a bit a glue (for the hanging loop) and look what came about?

This "felty" measures 5" from beak to tail; 3.25" from top to bottom; 1.25" thick (we won't say fat). The hanging loop is 3" from bird to tip of the loop, which gives Al plenty of options to hang from different things: hooks, mirrors, Christmas trees, handles, and long noses.

This is just a start. We have an Etsy shop set up and we'll be putting this felty and the others up really soon, so make sure to check us there!

Some Line Art

2011-03-07T14:46:00.001-05:00

By George

2011-02-21T15:36:00.001-05:00

Thank You Card Word Cage

2011-02-10T12:50:00.002-05:00

This morning I reached for a thank you card to send. Doesn't it always seem that right when you need them, you realize you are flush out?

Here's our Thank You Card Word Cage.

Sample Spread

2011-02-10T12:48:00.001-05:00

We're nearing completion of our first book. It's a poetic counting experience called One Birdie. Here's a sample spread to give you an idea of what you can expect, visually.

Jolly Holidays 2010

2010-12-22T11:16:00.003-05:00

We hope you have as many food comas as Algernon in the next couple of weeks.

Merry, Holly, & Jolly!

-rfb

Red Light. Green Light.

2010-10-07T23:31:00.001-04:00

Jolly Shop on Big Cartel

2010-07-03T11:59:00.000-04:00

Finally: a place to pick and choose a few of our jolly bits'n'pieces. For now, click on the link to get moved to our new shop on BigCartel. You'll see some postcards and posters. More to come, though, so keep it close to click.

Our first Collection of postcards (total of 10 split into 2 different packs) and a couple of 16"x20" posters.

Ciao for now...

Idea: Jolly Bands...

2010-06-23T17:32:00.001-04:00

Fads. Trends. How did rubber-bands ever get pulled into those circles? Well, we're going to jump in just as soon as we can. Pretty sweet: they are back-to-the-original-shape rubber bands.

Jolly Peace Tee

2010-06-15T19:04:00.003-04:00

Yes. You can order them. Visit our skreened shop and pick and choose! Color, size. Tee, hoodie, tote, or baby one-piece!

New Cards! Collection 1: The (Bird) Is The Word

2010-05-06T23:26:00.002-04:00

To place an order, write in and tell us! Since these are new and fresh, we're going to get our first 10 orders before we get them on the press! Write in if you'd like to order and we'll send you details!

redfredbodoni@gmail.com

Painted Red Fred Atop Name

2010-04-16T21:00:00.000-04:00

Jolly Peace

2010-04-11T15:05:00.000-04:00

Milton Glaser

2010-03-10T20:55:00.000-05:00

I heart Milton Glaser.

Jolly Good Poster Idea...

2010-03-02T11:21:00.000-05:00

We are getting really itchy to try some screen printing and thought this was a good concept. What do you think? What if we did different versions? What would you like to see if the piece was somehow differentiated?

the end.

2010-02-28T08:34:00.000-05:00

i carry your heart...

2010-02-27T08:34:00.000-05:00

keeping the stars apart...

2010-02-26T08:33:00.000-05:00

which grows higher...

2010-02-25T08:30:00.000-05:00

the sky...

2010-02-24T08:36:00.000-05:00

bud of the bud...

2010-02-23T08:35:00.000-05:00

here is the root...

2010-02-22T18:33:00.000-05:00

here is the deepest...

2010-02-21T14:44:00.001-05:00

and whatever a sun...

2010-02-21T14:43:00.001-05:00

and it's you...

2010-02-19T07:20:00.000-05:00

for beautiful you are...

2010-02-18T07:19:00.000-05:00

i want no world...

2010-02-17T08:18:00.000-05:00

for you are...

2010-02-16T08:17:00.000-05:00

i fear no...

2010-02-15T19:09:00.000-05:00

and whatever is done...

2010-02-06T11:51:00.000-05:00

Coloring Page: Van, Valentine, Skiing, Snuggling

2010-02-05T11:32:00.000-05:00

anywhere I go...

2010-02-05T11:31:00.001-05:00

Yvette's Valentine Tee: Tu Es Ma Chérie

2010-02-04T16:14:00.001-05:00

... the musky and swarthy Parisian pigeon whispered, as he gazed into her eyes.

Remember: all designs can be transferred to the color/type of shirt you like most! Click on this link to be taken to the Red Fred Bodoni Store at Skreened.

I am never...

2010-02-04T08:30:00.001-05:00

i carry your heart...

2010-02-03T08:30:00.000-05:00

e.e. cummings: i carry your heart with me

2010-02-02T16:23:00.000-05:00

a february favorite. watch daily.

-rfb

Ski Retreat

2010-02-01T17:39:00.000-05:00

Every year I organize a ski retreat for the Jolly Troop. We pack our various gear into a van, head to the mountains and spend a day on the slopes together. Well, my goal is always to spend a day on the slopes together. However...

Algernon prefers the company of hot cocoa and a comfortable chair in the lodge.

Yvette prefers the company of all the boys in the lodge.

Grey prefers one chairlift ride to the top of the resort for a day of snowcapped meditation.

And Black Jack and Penny prefer buzzing by in a competitive blur on brand new snowboards.

At least The Twins and Magnus are willing to ski a few runs with me throughout the day.

But before I begin to sound like I'm feeling sorry for myself, you should know that I still love the ski retreat day, even if there isn't a ton of skiing. Because at the end of it, I get to ride home with my happy and tired friends, listening to their stories and adventures from the day.

And it doesn't get much better than happy, tired friends.

I hope you spend some time with happy, tired friends.

-rfb

Sundance 2010

2010-01-26T14:20:00.000-05:00

Once a year my quiet, little city becomes the coolest place to be. It's only for ten days, but when the Sundance Film Festival comes around, all sorts of famous things – that don't normally happen – begin to happen. For instance, you just might run across Joseph Gordon-Levitt eating a sandwich in the deli. Or on your lunch you might find art on city buildings by Banksy from the night before. Or maybe you'll get invited to a party and Tom Waits will be there playing music.

Of course, the real point of the festival is the films. Penny and I usually get tickets to a movie or two because while we like to *star gaze* a little, we also like to see new things. And how lovely it is to see new things without even leaving town.

I think this is a great Sundance year.

I hope you think this is a great Sundance year, too.

-rfb

Haiti Relief Tees

2010-01-21T14:23:00.000-05:00

We may be little, but we want to help. If you'd like to help us help Haiti, 100% of the profit made from these tees will go directly to relief efforts. Shirts can be ordered in all sizes and colors. Click here to view options.

Thank you.

Haiti

2010-01-18T14:42:00.000-05:00

We are pausing. And thinking. And crying. Please watch for products regarding Red Fred for Haiti. 100% of proceeds generated will go directly to relief efforts in Haiti.

Calling Oats

2010-01-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

Did you know it's National Oatmeal Month? Well, it is. Algernon informed me the other day (as he informs me about any food related holiday) and I'm determined to celebrate it to the fullest because I love oatmeal. I'll eat a bowl of hot oatmeal every morning and make my special oatmeal chocolate chip cookies once a week. I'll let Yvette give me an oatmeal facial mask. I'll try an oatmeal meatloaf (I'm actually only a maybe on that one). I'll bring up oatmeal in casual conversation and do my part to spread the word.

Because everyone could use a little more oat in their life.

Could you use a little more oat in your life?

-rfb

Winter Wonders

2010-01-06T18:46:00.000-05:00

In between Christmas and New Year's I spent a lot of time snug as a bug in a rug, watching snow storms and winter days from the comfort of my neighborhood. Inside I baked bread in my new bread maker (a wonderful gift from Algernon). I organized my records alphabetically according to the year they were released (a serious undertaking). I started Crime and Punishment (and stopped reading Crime and Punishment... I'll leave that one to Magnus).

And for fresh air outside my home, Yvette and I took lots of walks together. We walked through the park across the street and we walked up and down city streets. In the still mornings we felt snow from the trees above lightly drift down onto our heads and beaks as we passed below. In the frosty evenings we felt the salt on the sidewalks crunch underneath our boots and we navigated across icy spots with only once or twice almost-slipping. We cleared my walkway noticing our breath in the great white puffs and at all hours we could hear snow truck shovels scrapping snow off the roads.

I think it is more work to exist in the winter then it is in the warmer months, but it can be such invigorating work if you let it.

I hope you let it.

-rfb