New varieties of potatoes are sprouting on local bookshelves. Spud buddies "Paisley the Potato" and "Masher the Potato" are just two of a range of friendly characters in a new children's books and goods launched by Rathdrum mom and grandmother Rhonda Newton in partnership with her daughter-in-law, Renee Newton of Minot, North Dakota. "This all started because I'm a crafter," Newton said Friday, holding up felt ornaments shaped like potatoes.