Recording Family History

Family bibles uses expand beyond being just religious scripture document. Many have also served the purpose of providing a home for records of important events that happened such as deaths, births, graduations and weddings for centuries. Many family bibles even include traditions, recipes and family anecdotes.

Recording electronic family history may now be the norm, but hi-tech solutions are not essential. The preference for keeping detailed paper records, including handwritten biographical outlines for each ancestor, family group records and pedigree charts, in a family bible or beautifully adorned journal is once again gaining momentum.

Even though most people are completely comfortable working with a computer, there is something to be said for keeping a fine penmanship record of your ancestors’ past. You not only keep your family history alive you also contribute to preserving the keeping of private and public records using the fine art of handwriting.

It may be time to treat yourself, and future generations, to a fine heirloom pen that can not only record your family’s current activities; it can be used by your great-great-grandchildren in many years to come.

Here’s a good starting point of suggested pens to get your search going:

http://www.penboutique.com/parker-sonnet-sterling-silver-cisele-gold-trim-rollerball-pen.html
http://www.penboutique.com/aurora-ipsilon-satin-blue-rollerball-pen.html

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Aurora

How the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War II, inspired a new pen company.

Aurora is an Italian manufacturer of fine writing instruments, fountain pens, paper and leather goods. Their products represent the first true Italian fountain pens and are still manufactured in their original factory in Turin, northern Italy.

It was 1919, the year the treaty of Versailles was signed. In an Italy marked by a post-war crisis, but bubbling with great hopes for recovery, the first steps down a long road were taken with the birth of Aurora, and the creation of the first true Italian fountain pen. A rich textile merchant, founder of the Torino Company of the same name, saw the crystallization of a dream he had long meditated and planned. In that year, the success enjoyed by the Aurora pen coincided with a new historic direction. Italy woke up to the first rays of a sun that was destined not to set, while Aurora became the name of a company destined for success.

From those very first years the company showed that it was able to produce writing instruments with inimitable allure and refinement. A unique style which, following the evolution of taste, yesterday as today, brought together experience, technique, precious materials and artisan skill and refinement. Having earned the appreciation of admirers round the world, the trademark represented forms and materials which, from the beginning, were tangible examples of the most refined made in Italy products. The brand is synonymous with high quality, exquisite taste, and fine Italian craftsmanship. Each Aurora Pen is influenced by the renowned culture, artistic legacy, and design characteristic of the Italian tradition. One of the only manufacturers to craft their own nibs, Aurora fountain pens feature fixed points - a reference for future generations of writing masters.

Pen Boutique is currently offering 20% off recently reduced prices on Aurora Ipsilon Resin pens. This is the lowest price available from an authorized dealer!

http://www.penboutique.com/aurora-optima-auroloide-rollerball-pen.html
http://www.penboutique.com/aurora-optima-burgundy-auroloide-rollerball-pen-with-chrome-trim.html
http://www.penboutique.com/aurora-talentum-rubberized-soft-touch-rollerball-pen.html
http://www.penboutique.com/aurora-ipsilon-deluxe-black-rollerball-pen.html
http://www.penboutique.com/aurora-ipsilon-deluxe-black-ballpoint-pen.html
http://www.penboutique.com/aurora-ipsilon-grey-lacquer-rollerball-pen.html

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Saint Patrick’s Day

Let’s paint the town green!

Saint Patrick's Day

Looks like, it’s the shared thought on everyone’s mind right now. With the arrival of 17th March this year, everyone is dusting off their green hats and either washing the old or purchasing a new green T-shirt. Legends have it that the color green makes a person invisible to leprechauns (elves) that will pinch someone if they see them. Save yourselves from the pinch, get your guards of green on; it’s Saint Patrick’s Day!

Along with the New York skyline above the empire state building, Sydney Opera House is lit green. Niagara Falls is flowing green and so is Chicago river plus the fountain of White house. London Eye, Tokyo Tower, Burj-al-Arab, all of them will go through the transformation that later erupts with Ireland’s shade of Green. This vibrancy of green will sweep through Italy, Australia, Canada, South Korea, Switzerland, USA and many other countries around the globe. You might want to follow the trend and get something green before you get pinched.

Why not modify the trend in a tasteful way? T-shirts and hats are done with; go for something that’s innovative, original and of course, limited. 

Retro51 LTD Green Acrylic Cellulose Double - Eight Tornado Fountain Pen

If you have always wanted to stand out from the crowd, you can be one of those 1951 happy owners of Retro51 LTD Green Acrylic Cellulose Double - Eight Tornado Fountain Pen MEDIUM POINT—since this is a limited edition. As heavy as the name might sound, you will be amazed at its lightness. The green marble designed barrel, gold trims and gold plated steel nib (Medium point) come together and build a slender, interference-free writing instrument that gives a sheer classic style comfort in writing. Retro51 is never out of Fashion and neither is Retro51 LTD Green Acrylic Cellulose Double - Eight Tornado Fountain Pen MEDIUM POINT.

Aurora Ipsilon

One of the reasons people wear green on St. Patrick’s day is because the catholic side of Ireland is branded with this energetic color. Science says, energy can neither be created nor destroyed but can always be transformed. Energy flows and I wouldn’t be off beam if I patronize Aurora Ipsilon Green Resin Fountain Pen which has the vigor to be the everyday pal for someone who studies as well as the untiring friend for someone who works. Available in various sizes, Aurora Ipsilon Green Resin Fountain Pen boasts of Green resin barrel, black lacquer ring, gold plated trims, light weight and great balance. The oomph can be sculpted according to your personality. Try evenly full of verve, Aurora Ipsilon Green Resin Rollerball Pen or Aurora Ipsilon Green Resin Ballpoint Pen, and see if you can resist the zest.

Though we talk of green much, the holiday was originally associated with the color blue. It’s believed that the change of color happened because of Ireland’s nickname ‘The Emerald Isle’. 

Pelikan Edelstein Ink

Talking of emeralds, did you know there has been an addition of a new range of garnet, sapphire, ruby and most outstandingly, aventurine in the treasure of compassion for smooth writing and fountain pens? The collection of brilliant nine colors inspired from gemstones structure Pelikan Edelstein 50ml Fountain Pen Ink Bottle. It’s no less than an impeccable jewelry. It’s of high value, it’s prosperous, detailed, perfect gift for yourself and the significant individuals in your life; and not to forget, and it’s limited to one year only. However, there are doubts Pelikan Edelstein 50ml Fountain Pen Ink Bottle Aventurine Green will last a year, especially when 17th March is just around the corner.
 

Visconti Dali Inspired Surrealist Fountain Pen

St. Patrick is a Catholic saint credited with enriching the island with Christianity and most famous for driving the snakes away from Ireland. True Fact: There are no snakes in Ireland. March 17th; a public holiday in Ireland is also well-known as a traditional day for spiritual renewal. Tradition, mind, imagination-all these words trigger the image of Visconti Dali Inspired Surrealist Fountain Pen in my vision. Dalí was well known for his uniqueness, creativity, and his exceptional character was the blend of respect for tradition and a determination for continuity. The eighteen–faceted design of Visconti Dali Inspired Surrealist Fountain Pen with gold and silver trim marks respect to all the traditions worldwide.

Bring in anything Irish, greens, shamrocks and lucky clovers but St. Patrick’s Day’s celebration is absolutely incomplete without the parades, festivities and Céilithe, a type of social gathering. With a superior population of Irish in USA than in Ireland itself, The New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade is the largest parade in the world. Likewise, the world's shortest St. Patrick's Day parade is held in the Irish village of Dripsey that lasts only 100 yards.

It’s also said that finding a four-leafed clover on this very day is extraordinarily lucky. Any luck so far?

May I also ask you how do you plan to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year? What do you have in mind? Something GREEN probably!

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International Women's Day 2014

International Women's Day

Woman, an epitome of beauty, affection, patience and selfless nurturing; she is something more than what words can describe. When we imagine womanhood, our mind summons up at the picture of our mother, grandmothers, daughter, wife, and friends and it brings out the varied emotions of love, respect and admiration. 

Every year on March 8^th, we celebrate International Women’s day as an opportunity to appreciate the vital contribution of women to our world. And admit it ladies, even we as a woman don’t give ourselves enough praise for all the efforts that we put in each day.

Let’s change that. Let the enthusiasm from around the world -whether it involves eating cupcakes, donning red shades of lipsticks or protests or awards or gifts; inspire how you reflect yourself.

March 8^th, 2014 marks the 103^rd anniversary of International Women’s Day, and I make the most of this day to acknowledge the unwavering spirit of women worldwide. My small pat on the back to women, including me through something that symbolizes them; I present to you a different initiative dedicated to femininity.

Montblanc Princess Grace

Let’s pay a tribute to an extraordinary woman and her impeccable glamor with PRINCESSE GRACE DE MONACO FOUNTAIN PEN. With a sensuously feminine neckline design, crafted from deep purple precious resin with champagne-tone gold-plating, it evolves into a majestic edition perfected with a lavish pink topaz on the clip. Be reminded, stones are simply a woman’s best friend. Both cap and barrel rings are intricately engraved with a rhombus pattern, inspired by the Principality of Monaco’s coat of arms. This edition underlies Montblanc’s commitment to step beyond functional beauty and acknowledge the inner charm of the woman in the walk of our lives.

Lamy Safari Pink

Now if you have always been pulled towards the bubbliest and vivacious side of a lady, then continue the perky celebration with a swing in pink. LAMY SAFARI PINK LIMITED EDITION is perfect as adoration to the young girls who I’m sure would like to have simply everything in their favorite color. LAMY has chosen trendy pink for this special model of the safari making this Lamy safari pink one of the ‘must-haves’ for every young girl, keeping in mind that all the women are always young. Age is just a number and in our case, a secret one.  The limited edition means it will be a sought-after collector’s item. The bright pink pen makes writing so much more fun – you might just get a neatly scribbled ‘Thank you’ note for choosing this as a gift for your princess.

Aurora Ipsilon

Last Women’s Day, I was simply flattered when a little neighbor of mine came to me with pretty yellow flowers. Though they were made of colored papers, nothing could have lured me more than his attempt to value a woman’s presence in this world. He supposedly learnt this in school and I learnt from him that it’s an Italian tradition to give mimosa flowers to women on International Women’s Day. Everyone is aware--Italy possesses the unmatched passion for beauty, style and glamour. So, giving Italian celebration a modern touch, AURORA IPSILONYELLOW RESIN ROLLERBALL PEN is Aurora’s own modern little yellow Mimosa created as souvenir for your everyday friend and a faithful companion. This mission is carried out with striking success by the Ipsilon, the pen that is eye-catching because of its innovative design, full of personality and characterized by the persona of a vibrant woman. A bit of an international knowledge of facts and details is always smart.

A new social initiative seeks to celebrate International Women’s Day using Red lipstick as the symbol of empowerment. Red, this bold color gushes femininity. Though beauty has no shade, it’s time you go around with the color of ‘Women Empowerment’ bright enough to make a long lasting impression.

Oberon Design Large Journals

My International Women’s Day pick would be Oberon Design Hummingbird Large Journal in Red. Her untamed bloom can also be garnished with Oberon Design Wild Rose Large Journal or the Oberon Design Cloud Dragon Large Journal will equally complement the fiery ablaze side of hers. Each of these elegant Oberon diary is handmade. Features include 208 pages with lined template sheet to facilitate writing. They are accompanied by a book insert and a Matching Britannia Pewter button.

All her wishes and dreams treasured underneath the sheath of red. Feels just right!

Cross Breast Cancer Awareness Leather Pouch

Sometimes, a little means a lot. While it’s not possible for you to control the genes, there are powerful steps you can take to protect your loved ones and help other protect theirs. CROSS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS ACCESSORY POUCH is small, but can make a big difference in supporting the cause. Defeat Breast Cancer. Its features include a zipped-top with outside pocket, a pink ribbon-patterned poly satin lining and Cross mini pen in the company of pink enamel awareness ribbon.

For every purchase, Cross will donate 10% of the retail sales to Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. Along with the women of your life, here’s a whole new way of thanking the women worldwide and paying them back for their unselfish acts of making this world a happier place to live.

Although the status of women worldwide had leaped drastically till date since the early 1900s, now is the right time to acknowledge the great achievements that women have brought together with our everyday lives, and also have a glance at all the accomplishment that remains to be made with time.

She can be you, your mom, your best friend, adoring sister, your wife or a female colleague; Make her smile this Women’s day!

 

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Father’s Day and Gift Selection Recommendations .

It’s a little unfair, when you think about it. It’s just a little unfair how during this mid-June holiday there are much fewer sales, fewer phone calls made and a distinct reduction of celebration overall compared to its feminine counterpart. Most would argue that it’s due to an excess of single-mother households, the unique components of maternal bonds and a societal expectation, but Pen Boutique considers both of these tributary holidays equally important for all who celebrate them. So, to honor a holiday celebrated the world over that celebrates fatherhood, paternal bonds and the influence of fathers in society, Pen Boutique is offering a myriad of products this Fathers’ Day.
Now I know I said it for Mothers’ Day, but I’m going to say it again, only slightly differently. While mothers typically like affectionate emotions to either be said aloud or proven through sentimental actions, most fathers aren’t fond of that particular cup of tea. (It’s extremely embarrassing a lot of the time, anyway.) Most fathers show love through actions, and prefer to have it reciprocated the same way. While giving them pricey plasma screen TVs, Dune Buggies and Segway PTs is always a nice gesture, this type of gift-giving always has a hollow element to it. There’s no real thought put in for practicality, sentimentality or what will be memorable for the recipient. It’s not about love; it’s about seeing how deeply you’re willing to go into the red this month. (And then the next month, with the Fourth of July parties, and then the next month when you have to take your kids to the water parks for the summer, and then next month with school supplies...I know; it makes me sick too.) So try giving your Pops something unique this year; something with a little more heart and spirit in it than some newfangled gadget you picked up at Best Buy. These gifts won’t be something he can ride around the Cape of Good Hope on, but they have enough street cred to give him bragging rights about his thoughtful, brilliant, and intuitive child. (And all parents want to do is brag about their children anyway.)
So, the first product up for inspection is the Montblanc Starwalker Metal Red-Gold Resin Fountain Pen. Not only is it a masterfully crafted Montblanc marvel, but special attention has been paid to its design so that it goes above and beyond the call of excellence. Its slender, elongated body is made of a precious midnight black resin whose depth is expertly blended with shined red-gold accents, rings and fittings. The iconic six-pointed Montblanc snowflake emblem floats in a transparent dome on the pen’s cap, opposite a rhodium-plated 14k gold nib. Despite its elegant allure, the Starwalker Red-Gold has a distinctly masculine air most apparent in its fine cuts and executive appeal. Administrative style, however, cannot be more thoroughly embodied than in the StarWalker Metal Red-Gold Plated Fine Liner, a piece that lives up to its intimidating name. Though it has the same general barrel style as the aforementioned piece, this edition is for those who want something a little more stylish in their hands. The body has a precious black lacquer surface that combines the beauty of red gold with the vivid symmetry of diamond-cut lines and fittings. The fresh look is topped off by the same six-pointed emblem in a transparent prism that creates an elegant tribute of modern artistry.


Their inherent good looks aside, pens with the contemporary finesse that make them look like they belong on Wall Street are not for everyone. Perhaps the simpler style is more up your dad’s alley; products that maintain a level of distinction and charisma with a certain subtlety about them. Should this be the case, the Aurora Ottantoto Fountain Pen is the perfect candidate. The body is made of a smooth, sleek Plexiglas that shows off the body’s core materials. This strong statement is complimented by a surprisingly daring basic black nib that takes boldness to a whole new level. The fascinating contrast gives this monochrome piece calm, cool and collected style that is hard to beat. For something that adds a little more functionality to the mix while still retaining its classic appeal, however, the Stipula Passaporto fits the bill. Available in four deeply vibrant colors, this new line is characterized by its small shape and big personality. Combining its lack of clip and short, 90mm length makes it both comfortable and easy to handle. It was made for travelling, easy-access and practicality all wrapped up in a strongly original design.


On the other hand, there’s still the chance that your old man would like something a little more individual while still maintaining a reserved air. The Lamy Safari Apple Green is the pinnacle of simplistic superiority. A member of the legendary Safari line, this collection has achieved worldwide recognition for its unique design and unbelievable affordability. The body is made of a sturdy, shiny ABS plastic that ensures longtime use while the polished, chrome-accented steel nib is 1.5mm and available in either extra fine, fine, medium and broad.

Of course, if your father is just entirely quirky or you know he’d get a good laugh out of it, try out the Tornado Deluxe King. It proudly portrays the iconic image of the King Of Spades that has graced the inside of card decks for centuries. This latest design style (And by latest design, I mean latest retro design, and you can take that any way you want) by Retro51 is enwrapped around a smooth, slick barrel with the perfect weight.

In the end, surprise your dad this Fathers’ Day! Don’t be that guy who tries to impress everyone by getting the most expensive gift they could find, and don’t be that other guy who gets their dad a tie and cufflinks for the seventh year in a row because that was all they could think to get. Be a little more personal, a little more thoughtful, and get your father a gift that’s just a little bit more special than anything he could ever have hoped to get.

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