New Year, as the world knew it prior to 1564, was celebrated on April 1st. April 1 was New Year’s Day – the culmination of holiday celebrations that started on March 25th and continued on for eight days. In 1564, Charles IX shifted the calendar in France and New Year's Day was moved to January 1. The French would never again celebrate April 1st as New Year’s Day. The official decree had been made.
In those early days, before iPads, the Internet, HDTV and 3D TV, smart phones and the automobile, the only way to get a message from one person, one village, one city and one country to another was to send the news by a messenger traveling by foot, by horseback, reliable carrier pigeon or by ship. Many people did not receive the news for days, weeks, months and even years. It took many years for countries to shift the new year from April 1 to January 1. And, to adopt the new Gregorian calendar.
Even citizens who received the official news that the date of the New Year's celebration had been changed refused to believe it. They continued to celebrate their New Year with an eight day celebration starting on March 25 and continuing through April 1. New Year's Day was April 1.
These folks were labeled as "fools" by the rest of the population who had their facts straight. The fools were subject to ridicule and were often were the victims of practical jokes or were sent off on "fools" errands. April 1st became April Fool Day.
The world adopted the shift in the holiday along with the new Gregorian calendar. January 1 became the start of the New Year. April Fool’s Day remains the official day for practical jokes.
Even as times change, this remains constant: the French are experts in the art of skin care and developing fragrances. French products are some of the best in the world from lines that combine the latest in technology with the old-world techniques of manufacturing. French women know how to pamper themselves, how take the best care of their skin and how to keep their skin looking young and beautiful. Here's your second chance to make those New Year's resolutions and pamper your skin.
"I've combed the streets of Paris for the best-of-the-best products and brought all of these back to the US. I'm featuring my Best of France products, all carefully researched and hand-picked by yours truly."
You don't have to travel far to take advantage of these French skincare products. All are available in my online store. And, at any time of the year, orders over $99 (US only) have standard shipping at no charge.
Maria Galland
Each Maria Galland skin care product combines gentleness and effectiveness with strict pharmaceutical control. All products are suited for all skin types. Try Maria's Intensive Action Firming Mask n°153 to give your skin a more radiant and smoother look. In just a few minutes, this pink and white clay mask will help bring new life to your looks. Browse now.
Les Bains du Marais
Les Bains du Marais products are carefully infused with delightful scents and are available in both body oils and tonics. The scents are subtle yet envelop you in a veil of loveliness. Try any of the three fragrances: Musc Blanc, Jasmine and Fleur d'Oranger. Browse now.
Anne Sémonin
Anne Sémonin products have become the favorites of celebrities and beauty editors worldwide. Each product is designed for maximum effectiveness. Try Anne's Botanical Face Milk, a cleanser with sea extracts and hazel nut oil that gently but effectively removes makeup and impurities without disturbing the skin's vital equilibrium. Its anti-inflammatory properties make this cleanser suitable for all skin types and ideal for sensitive skin. Browse now.
Don't Leave Home Without It
My Air Repair Rescue Balm has become the crème de la crème, as indispensable as water, food and air. Well, I wouldn't want to be caught in the Sahara without it, nor on the slopes near Zermatt without it. Put one in your purse (or pocket for men). It's the best beauty bargain on the globe - only $18 and well worth it.
