Fish or Fool?
When I was in 2nd or 3rd grade, we made the coolest craft ever: a sneaky trick for our parents on April Fool’s Day. The entire class cackled mischievously as we worked. We took a film canister filled with slime and tipped it out onto a square of overhead sheet, leaving the canister and the lid in the goo. A couple days later, once it was good and dry, we pulled it off the plastic and vua-la! An instant, harmless surprise for our unsuspecting parents. It was fantastic!
Now, before you run off and attempt this, I must point out how I seriously dated myself. I was about 8 years old (hello, film canister and overhead sheet). I do not remember the recipe for said slime. You’re welcome to fiddle with the modern slime recipe, but I don’t know if it will work. Just know I’m not liable for damaged carpet.
Fun Fact: The Julian calendaring system, used up until 1582, had 13 months with 28 days in each. The new year began on the spring equinox which usually fell on April 1st. However, when they switched to the Gregorian calendar (that we still use today), not everyone got the memo. Those that unknowingly partied on April 1st were then called April Fools.
The holiday is a global favorite among children even today. I’m sure we’ve all fallen victim to one extent or another—hopefully on the kind-hearted side. Perhaps you’ve found fake poop on the carpet, a plastic spider in the shower, or a whoopie cushion hidden in the couch. These pranks are completely benign and acceptable. Laughter is good medicine, after all.
In my opinion, some folks get carried away with their shenanigans and the tricks morph into meanness. My condolences to those that have had hair dye in the shampoo bottle, a mouse trap by the light switch, or even a forged eviction notice. Or maybe you like to live on the wild side and stick to the middle ground by sprinkling baby powder on powdered donuts. When my cousin was a teenager, she put plastic wrap under the toilet seat so her legally blind dad would make a giant mess in the middle of the night. (Funny, yes, but so gross, Kim!)
PSA: Please think twice before announcing to Internet Land that you’re pregnant. Infertility is a common, emotionally devastating ordeal. It’s not funny.
Did you know that April Fools’ Day is celebrated differently around the world? Check out this infographic I found. ——>
Side note: Wouldn’t it be fun to try some of the various traditions with the kids? We just may do that tonight.
Now, whether you’re putting a handful of salt in the chocolate chip cookies or taping a kick me sign to the back of your husband’s jacket, you’ll know you’re in good company. Mischief makers unite online, and as I did my research for this article, I came across some pretty hilarious tricks.
Paint your bar of soap with clear nail polish
Scrape the white stuff out of Oreos and replace with toothpaste.
“Borrow” your roommate’s phone while they’re sleeping and replace the screen protector with a cracked one.
Clog the shampoo spout with hot glue.
Insert cake pop sticks in brussel sprouts. Frost and decorate.
Does your family celebrate April Fools’ Day?
Or do you prefer to ignore the day and call it a win if you get through unscathed?
Maybe you’re like me and haven’t observed the holiday in years but you’re tempted by some of the humorous tricks you’ve found. I’m headed to the store to buy some brussel sprouts, folks!
Happy pranking, my friends!
Love, MJ
