Laura's Blog

Christmas 2010 Craft - Miniature Presents!

2010-12-08T15:06:00.001-05:00

Each year my daughter and I have a tradition of making a Christmas craft.

This year we are makingthe Miniature Christmas Presents featured in the photo above. The photo above and the craft idea and instructions are from the Kaboose website. This particular craft is by Amanda Formaro.

What I found appealing about these miniature presents is their simplicity. TIP: Purchase and use ribbon that is 1/8" wide. I found this width to work best for wrapping around the ornaments and making the bows of the ornaments.

Everyone loves presents and these bring joy and smiles and hope. The ornaments themselves may be small, but what a present can bring in the way of hope and joy can be big.

As in years past with our other Christmas crafts, especially the Jolly Elves crafts, we will be giving these to family and friends. We wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas!

Easy Paycheck Formula by Sara Young Video - Start Your Home Based Business Today

2010-11-05T11:38:00.002-04:00

<a href="http://www.linkedtube.com/OL12JtV3BLM3c43b6bcdb211846ea8ec0c04cdad73c.htm">LinkedTube</a>

Learn more about the Easy Paycheck Formula by Sara Young at the Easy Paycheck Formula Review.

Charlie and Lola Dolls Toys & Games Video

2010-10-23T15:54:00.001-04:00

<a href="http://www.linkedtube.com/IwW4T4u6gPs309fe3940352d57a1e663574818bc403.htm">LinkedTube</a>

Fancy Nancy Toys Video

2010-10-21T11:18:00.004-04:00

<a href="http://www.linkedtube.com/XdmF0h3VgnAe7e8dbf41e5ad1540147f5b22edea886.htm">LinkedTube</a>

Great Gift Ideas, Dolls, Dress Up, Puzzles, and Tea Parties! Frilly and elaborate ideas!

For these and other great Fancy Nancy Toy ideas visit Fancy Nancy Toys

Animated Christmas Deer Ornaments Yard Art

2010-10-06T10:17:00.002-04:00

During the Christmas holiday season pre-lit animated deer decorations can be seen scattered through neighborhood lawns. Sometimes there is only one deer, but other times there is a cluster or family of deer showcased with the Standing Buck, and two doe with him.

I find this animated Christmas yard art brightens a lawn with their white lights, and especially if a homeowner shines a spotlight on the grouping or only one if its shown alone. I also like the way they are usually white and appear calm and tranquil during what can be a busy time of year.

The animated deer that come pre-lit with clear mini lights and white wire with an elegant white iridescent glitter finish that looks like spun glass are my favorites.

Thank goodness for the folding construction which makes storage, set-up and take down easy and can be used indoors or outdoors. It's nice having choices.

The LG BD570 Offers More!

2010-10-05T08:01:00.006-04:00

Adding the LG BD570 Network Blu Ray Disc Player to your home entertainment systems will WOW you. With wireless connectivity, media streaming choices, DVD Upscaling, DLNA certified, and excellent blu ray image quality, the BD570 is an outstanding stand alone player and follow up to last years BD390 model. The newer model boasts a new more streamline shallow design with a slimline profile front panel that flips open for access to the USB port.

The media streaming on this component is arguably one of the most intriguing features of the player. Accessing the streaming media is through LGs Netcast service. This service allows access to loads of streaming content that can all be enjoyed right on your HDTV, no computer required. Access Netflix, Youtube, Pandora, CinemaNow, VuDu, Picasa, and Accuweather from your BD570 player. Through the components DLAN your videos and music are on your home network or external drive via the USB port are also accessible.

The LG BD570 Blu-Ray Player delivers superior image quality and convenience to your living room via wireless internet connectivity and no messy wires.

Love The Artificial Christmas Tree Idea

2010-09-27T17:38:00.002-04:00

Two years ago we purchased an artificial Christmas tree. Best.Idea.Ever.
No more trying to figure out what shape the tree we were looking at in the great outdoors was going to look like when we got it home. No more having to water the tree, and no more cleaning up all the needles that fall off. All.the.time.

When I shopped for an artificial tree, I looked for an bought a traditional type, but have since learned about three types of Christmas Artificial trees that are popular during the Christmas holiday season. These three are the Upside Down Christmas Tree, Fibre Optic Christmas trees, and the Christmas Palm Tree. True to the traditional trees, these artificial trees are available in various heights and also colors. Not sure if traditional trees are available in all the colors some of the upside down trees and fiber optic trees are such as black, red, and gold.

Benefits of each of these tree types include additional decorating space with the Upside Down Christmas tree especially for gifts, luminous light without any heat with the Fiber Optic Christmas tree, and the perfect decoration for a tropical environment that the Christmas Palm tree provides.

Many stores are offering their artificial trees at a discount this time of year. Why not grab one now at a great price and be all ready for Black Friday and the decorating season.

I Love Christmas Music

2010-09-23T08:39:00.003-04:00

Each year I like to add to my Christmas Song CDs. I have Christmas theme CDs with instrumental music, jazz music, and even a Christmas Jimmy Buffet CD.

Music is just a part of my life and it only seems natural to enjoy it especially during the holidays. One of the Christmas Song CDs we have is a Snoopy CD that my Mom gave our daughter when she was young.

We have our favorites of course that we enjoy each year. It's not too far away, only a couple months before we'll be singing "Deck The Halls"!

Shine on With Moroccan OIl

2010-09-23T08:36:00.002-04:00

I have been using Moroccan Oil for about 18 months. It has definitely given my hair shin, and also noticeable manageability. I use a little pea size amount each day on damp hair. I let my hair air dry which also has the added benefit of having the oil soak into the hair. I have also noticed using the oil seems to have helped my scalp be more healthy.

The Moroccan Oil is perfect for all hair types, and did I mention it smells GREAT?!

Grade B Organic Maple Syrup

2010-09-23T08:32:00.002-04:00

Direct from the Coombs Family forests in Vermont is the tasty, rich dark amber taste of Grade B Maple Syrup.

This syrup is perfect for the weekend family breakfasts with pancakes, waffles, and french toast. It also is great in recipes and for cooking such as for candies or frostings.

The syrup is preservative free, and does not contain and hydrogenated corHFCS making it a natural sweetener with lower sugar content that is good for your body.

Perfect for your family or as a gift for others, the exceptional quality and taste of the Coombs Family Organic Grade B Maple Syrup will delight!

The Rechargeable Wine Opener by Oster 4207

2010-09-23T08:25:00.007-04:00

My parents introduced me to this wine opener, the Oster 4207 Rechargeable Battery Wine Opener. I was a little apprehensive about using it since I had my Rabbit opener, but thought I'd give it a try.

What I found is that it is a delight to use. The wine opener is easy to handle, works efficiently, looks good, and holds a charge with up to 30 openings per charge. Just place the cylinder over the wine bottle, press the button and the corkscrew descends into the bottle cork. Press the button again and the cork descends and falls out of the opener.

The Oster Wine Opener amazes and delights at how it works so efficiently and with ease.

Pawn Stars Season One DVD

2010-09-23T08:21:00.003-04:00

Do you watch Pawn Stars on the History Channel? It is a favorite of my family in part because it is a show we can all watch together and also because we learn and have fun at the same time.

The Harrison family owns the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas and that is what the show is about. During the show we see people bring their items into the store to see how much they can sell the item for.

The Season One Pawn Stars DVD is great for the entire family.

Watch your favorite pawn shop family in the premiere season and meet Richard "The Old Man", Rick "The Spotter", Corey "Big Hoss", and of course "Chumlee". Watch as Rick inspects and authenticates items people bring into the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas. See the experts give their evaluations of items and their history behind them. Watch as the negotiations unfold to see if the shop will buy the item and at what price?

Visit Pawn Stars Show for more information about the characters, the experts, and fun stats about the pawn industry.

The Classic Toy - Magic 8 Ball

2010-09-11T08:37:00.007-04:00

This classic toy by Mattel was invented in 1946, and since that time the Magic 8 Ball has delighted children 5 years and older with its fortune telling. With 20 possible Magic 8 Ball Answers to any Yes or No question asked children both young and old have been delighted and some mesmerized with this toy. Magic 8 Ball responses include the always famous "Yes" and "Outlook Good", and the non-committal "Cannot predict now", and "Very doubtful". Check out all of the 20 Magic 8 Answers in the article.

Variations of the original Magic 8 Ball have developed since its invention and include the following bestsellers:the Sarcastic Ball, Dr. Freud's Therapy Ball, and the Toy Story Talking Magic 8 Ball featuring Woody's voice.

Smile by Uncle Kracker

2010-08-19T16:09:00.003-04:00

This is a feel good, great song that if you aren't right now, you will be smiling soon!

What a great song! Enjoy and Remember to Smile!

Smile by Uncle Kracker on the Happy Hour Album.

An Alternate Advent Calendar

2010-08-08T15:12:00.004-04:00

Summer is not over, but with the slight seasonal changes I have been noticing outside, my thoughts have wandered ahead to the start of school, and the Christmas season.

I have begun to look for this year's Christmas ornament that my daughter and I will make. Last year we made the adorable Jolly Elves Ornaments. Making Christmas ornaments together is time my family spends together creating and that requires me to slow down and in the process spend quality time with my daughter.

This year I'd like to add an advent calendar to the season and our family traditions. I thought about making one, but have since decided that a wood advent calendar may be able to be enjoyed now and then in the future shared with my daughter when she is an adult and perhaps has a family of her own. I prefer a Christian themed advent calendar to a secular one. The advent season is a perfect time remember the "reason for the season".

Hope you are having a wonderful summer and that as the Advent season approaches the beginning of November you and your family will have time together making Christmas traditions.

The Pyramid from Playmobil

2010-08-06T14:44:00.002-04:00

The Playmobil Pyramid is an explorers delight. It is the centerpiece to the 9 set Playmobil Egyptian collection.

Children can protect the emperor and empress mummies from grave robbers using the tricks and traps of the two level pyramid. It is both very educational and interactive.

Your child or loved one will be thrilled with its wonderful hidden compartments, sides that come off, break away walls, and sliding staircase.

There are snakes, scorpions and even a scorpion trap. There is also CD that accompanies the Playmobil Pyramid offering games, a quiz, and coloring page.

Easy Paycheck Formula by Sara Young

2010-07-29T09:58:00.004-04:00

Beginning August 19, 2010 Easy Paycheck Formula will be open to the public.

This is great news.

Why? Because the Easy Paycheck Formula is a step-by-step method or program for making money online using free resources. No lists, no hosting, no website. Using free resources, the creator of the program, Sara Young, literally shows using videos how to set up campaigns to make you money.

I purchased Easy Paycheck Formula the beginning of July 2010. I have been delighted with the 12 lessons and 20 videos that the program offers to setting up campaigns and making money. My favorite parts of the formula are Keyword Research and Article writing. Within the program Sara offers usable tips and techniques that clear the fog so to speak on these two topics. Additionally, the support is outstanding with responses to my questions being received within 24 hours.

Each of the modules comes with a transcript of the video which has been nice for using throughout using the formula. In addition, Easy Paycheck Formula comes with a complete course manual, troubleshooting guide, action steps after each lesson, and many more tips that are useful. This program is both for both the newbie and seasoned marketer looking to make money online.

So, when the doors open August 19, 2010 I recommend purchasing Easy Paycheck Formula and digging in right away to start making cash.

A Wirehaired Pointing What?

2010-06-20T03:40:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow our family dog, Stoli, celebrates his 2nd birthday. Here's a recent picture of Stoli, our Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (WPG), and one from when he was a puppy on the day we brought him home.

Stloi as a Puppy

Stoli 2 Years Old

My husband and I have known one another for 20 years, and for the better part of our married life of 18 years, Jim has wanted a dog. I on the other hand was not interested in adding a canine member to the family. That pretty much changed after seeing the litter of puppies in July, 2008 and choosing our new family friend.

Stoli is a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. He is a sporting dog and I know there are probably lots of things the breeders and other owners could share with you about this dog's breed, but these are my personal & most memorable thoughts about Stoli over the past two years.

Top Things about Stoli our Wirehaired Pointing Griffon:

This breed loves to be "With You". That might sound like your dog. And it very well may be true. But Stoli wants to be in close proximity, in your lap would be fine. I should mention he's 60 some pounds. Not exactly a lap dog. But if you are cooking, he is at your feet. Literally, resting on your leg with his paw(s) on the top of your foot. I realize this is an inherent trait bred in this dog and is one of the things that make the breed good hunting dogs. I just wasn't prepared and now wouldn't change this family oriented trait in our WPG, Stoli.

Remember "Tigger" from Winnie-The-Pooh? Remember how he bounced from place to place? Well, Stoli doesn't really bounce, but he sure is close to bouncing up and down when he is excited to meet and greet any new people. Which naturally brings some interesting looks and consequent dialogue from our newest visitors. Our family have become somewhat familiar with Stoli's bouncing abilities, but it still illicits some giggle, well at least from me! Again, this is a quality that I believe is desirable in this breed. Stoli's natural agility skills are amazing. He can zig zag out of any spot with the greatest of ease. He's fast too, he runs with speed like nobody's business!

Well, I guess this next one we kind of have only ourselves to thank. Our Stoli loves his dinner with carrots and yogurt. I know. You can shake your head, I know I do at each meal.

And lastly (at least for this post), Stoli has many nicknames: Stoli Rollie Polli Ollie, Stoli the Dog, Buddy to name a few. He also has the nickname Tina Turner for when he shakes and his hair on his head is remarkably reminiscint of Tiny Turner's hair during the "What's Love Got To Do With It" days.

So on the eve of Stoli's second birthday we reminisce on his homecoming, and celebrate his being two and bringing us lots of laughs and love, and at times shedding. (We can go into the shedding/non-shedding another time :))

Happy Birthday Stoli!

Posted via web from laura45's posterous

What About a Bath Safety Rail?

2010-06-15T09:42:00.002-04:00

Ever been in the shower and feel yourself start to slip and start flailing to stop the fall. Afterwards your back might be strained, or worse.

Not too long ago my adult sister fell in her marble shower, and thankfully, there were only black and blue bruises. Not nice to look at, but certainly better than some/most of the other possible outcomes.

After that incident I began wondering about installing a bath safety rail.

Come to find out, these little sturdy devices are used by young and old alike. The youngsters enjoy using a bath safety rail for the independence achieved by entering and exiting the bath on their own. They can have a daily "I Did It" moment!

And as I mentioned, some sort of bath grab rail would have been ideal for my sister and so, for the future, will have one installed in her shower.

The elderly are another group that benefit from either a bath safety rail or a bath grab bar. The easy to install sturdy device provides support, comfort, safety while preserving independence.

A bath safety rail provides comfort, sturdy support, and peace of mind for loved ones.

Posted via web from laura45's posterous

Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary Mom and Dad!

2010-06-13T06:22:00.001-04:00

The date June 11, 2010 is exactly 50 years from the date my parents exchanged wedding vows as young adults. Fast forward, and I do mean fast forward, 50 years to the 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration held at the Homewood Suites in York, PA.

Friends and Family reunited for a celebration in honor of my parent's commitment and testament of their love.

Joining our family in the celebration were family & friends from near and far, including Dolores, my Mother's friend from her first real job as a young women in NYC at Liggett & Myers Tobacco Company,; Bob and Andrea, one of my Mother's nephews, Bob, and his wife, Andrea, who travelled from CT for the celebration; Ginnie, Nancy and Bill, and Jane and Don, all long-time friends with lots of memories and history from York; and Bonnie and Dick, valued and special friends from New Port Richey, FL. Mom and Dad had satellite toasts both on and previous to the June 11 celebration in March in AZ with Aunt Marijane, Uncle John, Geralyn, Michael, and Katie; and in New Port Richey the night of the anniversary from George and Diane who raised their glasses to celebrate this momentous occasion; and from Tennesse from Jack and Jeannette; Uncle Joe and Aunt Babe toasted and celebrated to Mom and Dad's continued happiness and health from Jupiter, FL; while Mom's childhood and special friend Pat with her husband Phil commemorated this milestone with wedding memorobilia and heart-felt thoughts and messages.

While the cummulative months and years culminated in a wonderous night of camraderie and celebration, it is the daily strength of character, the focus on commitment, the strong foundation for family and friends that catapulted us to raising our glasses and celebrating the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Mom and Dad.

To that effect, Lisa wrote a heart-felt and to-be-remembered toast that honored Mom and Dad. Lisa asked Lauren and Rachel for their help in delivering the toast and what a memorable moment was witnessed by all who received Lisa's thoughts and feeling on our parents lives and our future from their two grandchildren. Lauren and Rachel delivered the toast with poise and finesse and made their grandparents and parents proud.

It is bittersweet when such an anticipated event comes to its conclusion and this was one event that was not destined to end early, or even on time. We gathered around the table, pulling chairs together for proximity to share with one another stories, antidotes, anything really so as to extend the party, extend the time together in the name of Love. A 50 year testament to Love and Commitment as evidenced by our Mother and Father, GrandMom and GrandDad, Friend , Aunt, Uncle, Great Aunt and Great Uncle.

5 Things I Love About P90X

2010-06-04T10:02:00.006-04:00

First: Tony Horton: Inspirational, Legit, Dedicated, and Fun

Second: The variety of the program. The program offers the P90X Classic, P90X Double, and P90X Lean programs. Awesome Programs!

Third: I am learning about me and my strengths as a person while improving my body physically.

Fourth: Pam the Blam, Dreya Weber, and the Other P90X Instructors

Fifth: The Motivation and Possibility to be in the best shape of my life is attainable through this program.

Keep Pushing Play!

P90X - Home Fitness Program That Works

2010-04-22T12:52:00.008-04:00

P90X is a lifestyle. It's more than a weight loss program,it's a way of life.

P90X is at home fitness that works!

It's an ultimate home fitness program that you can believe in. With Tony exercise is,believe it or not, fun!

Visit and learn more at P90X.com.

See pictures of an amazing P90X transformation below.

Tracey Edward's Recent Post on Adsense and Affiliate Marketing

2010-02-09T13:06:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite affiliate marketers, Tracey Edwards, recently posted Amazon, Adsense & Affiliate Sales – Oh Boy on her blog. I've been reading Tracey Edward's blog for a little over a year, and have also purchased a couple of her products.

Tracey is straight forward in her posts about Making Money Online and offers a fresh perspective as well as step by step instructions that can be implemented to make money online.

This recent post is most welcome since it is the first since October. Stop by and read Amazon, Adsense & Affiliate Sales – Oh Boy for Tracey's suggestions on selling physical products as an affiliate, and making money with Adsense.

Thanks for your recent post, Tracey!

The Pink Snuggie: A Perfect Gift

2010-01-04T14:52:00.002-05:00

This year my sister and her family surprised me with an As Seen on TV Pink Snuggie Blanket - It's the pink Snuggie which benefits The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and of course has sleeves. Let me tell you, it is warm. And the book light is wonderful.

The funny part of the gift is that during the summer months our family collectively enjoyed the parodies we found online on this blanket with sleeves. We enjoyed the videos so much, we needed a box of tissues nearby to dry our eyes from all the laughing we would do while watching the parody.

Now we are laughing because two of us in our family have recevied them as gifts and more are on their way as presents for family members who have also requested the snuggie as a gift. Who knew there are Snuggies for Children, and Snuggies for Pets! Amazing! In addition to pink, the blankets come in red, blue, leopard, and there is even a Snuggie Zebra. I wonder if there is one in camouflage?

The darn things is so simple in design it a head scratcher why we didn't think of it ourselves! That being said, there is no doubt I am enjoying staying warm with the blanket that has sleeves!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T17:58:00.002-05:00

Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Charlie and Lola Dolls

2009-12-07T07:39:00.013-05:00

Fans of the Charlie and Lola series on Disney channel will love these Charlie and Lola Dolls by Kid's Preferred as Christmas gifts this year.

The Kid's Preferred's Talking Poseable Charlie & Lola Set are poseable and they talk. Their voices are those from the television series that viewers have come to know and love.

Charlie and Lola are siblings around ages 7 and 3 respectively and whatever it is that Lola needs help with, Charlie is there with imagination and loving caring. Charlie helps Lola with getting her first hair cut, going to school, and checking books out from the library to name just a few instances of his help. The children address everyday happenings that may be frightening in a child's world in an imaginative and creative way.

Delight your little one with Charlie and Lola Dolls.

Landmann Super Sky Fire Pit

2009-12-02T18:16:00.014-05:00

Bring out the Landmann USA 28905 Super Sky Fire Pit this season and invite your family and friends over to roast marshmallows, sing caroles and be festive for the holidays.

With the 365 degree view everyone will enjoy the large opening for warmth and appreciation of the cut out designs.

Selecting a location to have your gathering is easy with the full handle that goes around the entire diameter of the fire pit.

This fire pit is made solid and is easy to assemble. You'll have it set up with dancing flames in no time.

Enjoy the holidays and add some outdoor sparkle with a Landmann Super Sky Fire Pit

Jolly Elves Christmas Craft

2009-11-19T15:04:00.041-05:00

My daughter and I are making Jolly Elves this year for our annual Christmas craft. The image shown to the left and the Jolly Elves craft idea are from the Parents Magazine website.

Prior year holiday crafts have included Gingerbread ornaments using felt (2004), decoupaged angel ornaments using wood cut outs and tissue paper (2005), sparkle balls using small styro foam balls, pins and sequins (2006), decorated glass ornaments (2007), and in 2008 we made (and enjoyed) an edible treat as gifts. These gifts are for family, teachers, coaches, friends, and of course as momentoes for our Christmas trees.

My daughter and I look forward to this tradition each year. From choosing the craft, to gathering or buying the materials, and then making the items, we enjoy the together time as well as the anticipation of the actual gift giving. We also enjoy decorating the Christmas tree with the current and prior year craft ornaments. With each item we recall what grade our daughter was in, how we enjoyed, or in the case of the sequin sparkly ornaments how we didn't enjoy, making each ornament.

Parents Magazine has been the inspiration for many of our Christmas crafts. We are looking forward to creating our Jolly Elves and would like to share with you some material and item buying tips that you may find helpful with making this craft.

The instructions call for chenille pipe cleaners, Large and Small beads, smiley face beads, felt hats and scarves, and bells. You will need a glue gun and glue sticks for making the hats.

Here is list of the items and where they can be found:

Chenille stems: We found ours at Michaels crafts. You can also purchase the Jolly Elves Craft Pipe Cleaners at Amazon. They are 12" or 6mm long. They are the super thick variety, I am thinking of getting the "standard" or non super thick stems to assist the beads and bell going into position easier.

Large and Small beads: I found the Large wooden beads used for the body also at Michaels, but these Large Wooden Beads at Amazon look very similar. The beads from Michael's are round and the diameter of the inner circle is spacious. The selling price for the pack of 35 was $2.99. For the small beads we are using pony beads. They look okay, but I think small wooden beads in primary colors would look better. The shine on the pony beads is a bit distracting.

Smiley Face Beads: I purchased the 25mm smiley faces at Sunshine Crafts. Oriental Trading also offers the smiley face beads.

Felt: Any craft store, I did buy sparkle felt at Sunshine Crafts, but because of the extra thickness of the pieces have decided to use good old fashion plain felt, in various colors of course! Now the felt is used for the elf caps and the scarves. The scarves are 4" long and 1/2" wide. Most pieces of felt are 12" long, netting you 3 scarves per 1/2"W horizontal cut. The hats are also felt. I just checked at Amazon.com and they do have these felt pieces if you want to order them online. The craft directions call for a semi circle from a 1-1/2" circle, I found a typical tealight candle to be just the right size to use to trace a pattern for making the felt hats. Cut the circle in half and then wrap and glue the right and left points together to form a cone, leaving an opening for the chenille stem.

Bells: The bells we purchased and are using are the 12mm gold bells we found at Michaels crafts. The opening for use with the super thick chenille stem is a little tight, but with a little patience, the bell fits onto and slides down the stem to sit atop the elf hat. These Gold 13mm Jingle Bells might work too since they are a bit larger.

We've completed 8 little guys, and hope to make a total of 24 Jolly Elves. Twenty four is the original plan, but after seeing how adorable these little guys are, we may be making and giving more! Happy Holidays!

Fancy Nancy Toys

2009-11-19T12:11:00.014-05:00

How fancy is Fancy Nancy? Well, since 2005 when author Jane O'Connor with illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser first introduced us to Fancy Nancy we have been reading Fancy Nancy Books to find out.

Fancy Nancy has an insatiable desire for all things fancy. She loves to dress fancy and always accessorizes fancy with boas, hats, and tiaras. But talking fancy is just as important as dressing fancy , and Nancy treats us and her readers to fancy words such as "Fuschia", "ecstatic", and "extraordinary"!

Readers love Fancy Nancy for her whimsy and often times extravagance. What is also delightful about Fancy Nancy is that although she loves the glitz and glamour of life, she is a girl who knows that true fancy in life doesn't come from glitz and glamour but from the meaningful things in life.

Fancy Nancy Toys are enjoyed by children with books, bed linens and even a Fancy Nancy Christmas Holiday Doll.

Enjoy this video of a Harry McKillop Elementary School third grader's report on Fancy Nancy. (Source: SchoolTube.com)

Popular Children's Books

2009-11-13T16:26:00.008-05:00

Children aquire a love for reading from an early age. Babies love the bonding and listening to our voices, toddlers enjoy the colors, pictures and characters, while school age and young adults become more immersed in the story line and plot the more they read and the older they become.

Popular Children's Books can be categorized by age and include those books for babies through age 3, ages 4 through 8, ages 9 through 12, and young adult readers.

Watching my own child progress through the baby years, then toddler and preschool years, and now early education years, it has been inspirational on a personal level to witness the growth and love of books. As a result of my child's love of reading I have rekindled my love of reading. That's a definite plus in my world/

Children's popular books include classics like Winnie the Pooh, Goodnight Moon, Diary of a Wimppy Kid, and of the Eric Carle books such as The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the fabulous Fancy Nancy books, and the Twilight Saga books for young adults.

I am hard pressed to think of another activities that opens so many doors of creativity and learning than reading. In my opinion teaching a child to read and seeing them foster that desire on their own as they grow older is one of the most rewarding aspects of parenting.

Sesame Street Books Make Great Gifts for Christmas 2010

2009-11-11T15:01:00.008-05:00

I came to know about the Sesame Street program and Sesame Street Books first as an adult and then later as a parent.

My first foray into the world of Sesame Street were the Bert and Ernie characters through my husband's niece.

As an adult I would hear references to songs from Sesame Street such as "One of these things is not like the other" and still, wasn't aware of the scope and breadth of the show that this month is celebrating 40 years of preschool education in literacy and numeracy.

And today as a parent of an elementary grade school student, I feel like I've logged enough hours watching Sesame Street to feel like a Sesame Street graduate. And while I know more about Sesame Street than at any other time in my years, the show's continuous development and growth to meet the needs of it's preschool audience may warrant me a newbie in the near future.

That being said, I view the Sesame Street books as valuable tools for children's learned reading behavior. In these stories children can not only connect with the characters they see on the show they can connect with the characters activities and accomplishments. Whether it's learning the ABCs or potty training, children can relate to the characters and their reactions to events and emotions they feel on a frequent, if not everyday basis. Learning manners, overcoming fear of monsters, learning about pets and animals are all introduced in a creative, colorful manner.

Reading the Sesame Street stories using board books is ideal for their durability and economical sense. While the story may get overworked with readings after readings, these book are built tough to stay together for the next reading.

Whether it's Elmo, Big Bird, the Cookie Monster, or Count von Count, the Sesame Street books provide educational reading in a fun, colorful way.

Baby Books Make Great Gifts for Christmas 2010

2009-11-08T07:00:00.009-05:00

Baby Books are wonderful gifts as Christmas gifts. There are many styles of books to choose for baby. There are Record Books, Boards Books, Scrapbooks, Books about Babies, and Baby Einstein Books from which to choose.

Record Books keep all babies memorable firsts in one place for all to share. Scrapbooks give the family and baby something to view and share as baby develops. You can use photos or physical items such as a baby bracelet. Babies love other babies, so a book about and featuring babies will be enjoyed by baby. The Baby Einstein books open up the world around them in fun and expressive ways with lots of color and imagery.

Whichever Baby Books you choose as a Christmas gift, you are giving Baby the present of time with loved ones and a chance to bond while sharing reading.

Janson Beckett AlphaDerma CE Anti-Aging Wrinkle Cure Concentrate

2009-10-23T16:09:00.005-04:00

The Janson Beckett Cosmeceutical company has a line of skincare products that are known as anti aging wrinkle peptide products. The flagship product of the Janson Beckett company is AlphaDerma CE.

The AlphaDerma CE, is referred to as the best and safest Botox alternative is formulated to tighten skin and reduce wrinkles. The AlphaDerma CE lotion is one the company's Peptide Anti-Aging Treatments with many ingredients including moisturizers, anti-oxidants, muscle tigheners and the Botox alternative ingredient, Argireline. Additional ingredients include DMAE, the powerful antioxidant ALA, Vitamin C Ester, Elastin, and Collagen.

The company website state that it does no animal testing in the research and creation of their products.

The Janson Beckett AlphaDerma CE product tightens and aids in repairing aged skin and preventing future damage.

M-Audio Prokeys 88SX 88-Key Lightweight Stage Piano

2009-10-13T11:56:00.010-04:00

The M-Audio Prokeys 88SX Lightweight Keyboard is sweet. It's compact, so it can travel with you, fit nicely on a desk or table top, and has unbeatable sound. You can choose from seven premium sounds to play. Choose from 2 piano sounds, 2 electronic piano, FM Piano, Perc Organ based on Hammond B3, and Clav: instrument sound based on Hohner Clavinet D6.

Users love the great light weight feel provided by the 88-note semi-weighted action keyboard, and the pitch bend and modulation wheels.

You need your own head phones or speakers with the Prokeys 88sx. The component offers 2 1/4" front-side headphone jacks for headphones and stereo 1/4" audio outputs for connecting speakers.

With the headphones you can practice and play all hours of the day without disturbing neighbors, or loved ones.

Practice or teach using the M-Studio Prokeys 88SX 88 key Lightweight Keyboard and enjoy.

LG BD390 Blu Ray Disc Player

2009-10-05T21:31:00.008-04:00

This LG BD390 Blu Ray Disc Player is ideal for the movie aficiando on your Christmas list for several reasons. The first item that is wonderful about the BD390 is it plays blu ray discs in high definition. Secondly, the LG BD390 offers Netflix and Youtube streaming using its internal Wi-Fi 802.11n technology. The component comes with 1G of internal memory to successfully assist with unbroken streaming. The third reason this disc player is wonderful is that it uses Standard DVD Up-Scaling. Watch your standard DVDs on the LG BD390 blu ray player. This player also will play your collection of personal media files including video, music, and .jpeg files. The LG BD390 is a Christmas gift that is certain to entertain and delight!

Samsung P400 Ultraportable Projector

2009-10-05T21:26:00.009-04:00

The Samsung P400 is a portable projector with a bright image and high quality audio. The projector is 2.5" in. x 5.8" x 5.7" and weighs less than 2 pounds (1.9lbs). Its LED light source with 150-lumen rating is eco-friendly and economical with a 20,000 hour lifetime. Set up of the projector is straight forward using the VGA cable that comes with the projector. The projector also comes with a remote control allowing you to make adjustments from across the room which may come in handy during family movie or game night. Whether you are looking for a projector to use for business or as a gift for the movie or game afficiando on your list, the Samsung P400 offers portability, image brightness, and great audio.

Canon VIXIA HF200 HD Camcorder

2009-10-02T19:28:00.007-04:00

Camcorders, like many electronics, have come along way over the years. Today's camcorders are sleek and lightweight with SDHC media storage. The Canon VIXIA HF200 HD Camcorder has everyone talking, and it's easy to see why!

The Canon Vixia HF200 boasts a sleek 2.8" wide, 2.4" high and 4.9" deep design that weighs only 12.0 ounces. It's size together with the ability to capture outstanding high definition video directly to a removable SDHC Memory Card make this camcorder an easy and convenient choice for enthusiasts and hobbyists alike.

Included with the Canon Vixia HF200 is the genuine Canon 15x HD Video Lens. This lens can be used to record long shots of your favorite player on the soccer field, wide shots of the beautiful outdoors, and everything in-between. HiDef demands a steady hand, and Canon has supplied the VIXIA HF200 with SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization (SuperRange OIS) to help keep your shot steady without compromising image quality.

Using the Canon Vixia HF200 HD Camcorder is intuitive and easy. Because of it's size, it's portable which means capturing more of life's moments to share and remember.

Sandisk Sansa Fuze 4gb MP3 Player

2009-10-01T20:11:00.009-04:00

Listen, Watch, and Play with the Sansa Fuze with room for up to 1000 songs, a Digital FM radio with 40 preset stations, a Voice recorder with built-in microphone, and the opportunity to expand the existing 4 GB memory with the microSD/microSDHC slot!

The SanDisk Sansa Fuze 4GB MP3 Player is a small, sleek, and smart alternative to the iPod.

With a 1.9 inch color screen, you can watch videos or pictures in color!This MP3 Player is the perfect size: just 2.2 x 1.5 x 0.6 inches and 2.1 ounces.

The SanDisk Sansa Fuze 4 GB MP3 player comes with earphones, a USB 2.0 cable, and quick start guide. Among the various SanDisk Sansa Fuze 4GB Video MP3 Player Accessories are silicon skin cases in a variety of colors, LCD Screen Protectors, armband, removable belt clip, and USB car chargers.

Singer 7470 Confidence Computerized Sewing Machine

2009-09-30T15:12:00.020-04:00

Sewing has made a resurgence of late with refashioning leading the way. Sewing enthusiast and novices alike are enjoying current and traditional sewing such as sewing for home decor, mending and alterations, construction, or crafts with the Singer 7470.

When you think of sewing, you think of Singer. That is because the company has been in business over 150, has earned numerous awards, and continues to build loyal customers.

Some of the Singer 7470 Confidence benefit and features include:

* Stitch width of up to 7mm wide
* 13 needle positions
* Programmable needle up/down button
* Free arm with accessory storage
* Carry handle that folds
* Audible and visual warning signal given if there is a problem

The Benefits and Features also include:

* Automatic needle threader and 6-second thread path
* Twin needle sewing - used to create decorative patterns with two threads
* QuickThread bobbin - gives the top drop-in bobbin a clear view plate so it's easy to load correctly every time
* Stitch options including handlook quilting (gives the look of a handquilted stitch); alphabet (with upper case, specialty characters, numerals, punctuation), 6 styles of 1-step and an infinite length bar-tack buttonhole, button sewing, different hem options and a wide variety of stretch, quilt, heirloom and decorative stitches (over 150 patterns)

The Review Are In! People love the Singer 7470 Confidence:

With so many sewing machines on the market, it becomes overwhelming to know which machine to choose. I based my decision largely on consumer reviews (as well as a recommendation from several staff members at a retail store). As of now, I couldn't be happier with my decision. Posted by Grace 11/2008

The instruction manual is very well written. Self threading the machine turned out to be a breeze. Selecting the stitch was super simple. Posted by Cookie 08/2009

-I love the drop-in bobbin. I don't even mind having to adjust the thread myself while it's winding, either (as another reviewer pointed out). It's just so much easier than on my old machine. -It handles all fabrics, thick and thin. Just make sure you're using the right needle (of course)! Posted 08/2009

Whether the sewing enthusiast in your life is a current Project Runway fan, expert seamstress, or a hobbyist the Singer 7470 is a wonderful tool for helping sewing enthusiasts explore and express their creativity.

The Joys of Receiving a Children's Music Box

2009-09-27T09:42:00.025-04:00

Music boxes have been filling our lives with fantasy and tunes since the late 1700's. Originally designed to be carried as a snuff box in men's vest garments, the music box has developed from individual musical enjoyment, to home entertainment, to wonder and delight for children of all ages.

Today there are several types of music boxes to choose from including musical snow globes, musical jewelry boxes, trinket boxes, figurines, eggs, ballerina music boxes, and photo frames.

The top 5 tunes of today's music box are 1) Amazing Grace, 2) Fur Elise, 3) Pachelbel's Canon in D, 4) Wind Beneath My Wings, and 5) You Are My Sunshine.

Music boxes make wonderful long-lasting gifts for children and adults alike as Christmas gifts, Mother's Day gifts, birthday gifts, and special family occasion gifts. A wonderful, timeless gift, children's music boxes will continue to delight and inspire.

Little Tikes EasyStore Table

2009-09-26T07:00:00.011-04:00

The Little Tikes EasyStore Table is one of the best purchases we made for our toddler daughter. This table provides a perfectly scaled to size area for watching television, playing with molding dough, having a snack, reading, or doing crafts. The picnic style seating seats up to 6 children and provides a place for children and their creativity.

The table design includes an indented center area to hold crayons, snacks, paints, or craft supplies. The center also has two cup holders and an opening for an umbrella. Using this table outside is just as easy as using it inside. The sturdy plastic withstands the elements, juice, crayons and most importantly is able to be cleaned with everyday surface cleaner.

This table can easily travel to the beach, camping, visiting with the grandparents, or in a playhouse. It is easy to store and open and requires no tools for assembly.

With the holidays approaching the Little Tikes EasyStore Table could possibly be the best answer to the "children's table"!

The Fascination Antworks Illuminated Gel Ant Farm

2009-09-25T11:43:00.018-04:00

Thankfully the ant farm my daughter received as a gift is the new Fascinations Antworks Illuminated space age gel ant farm. I say thankfully because of the nutrient rich gel the ants live in. This for me and my family was more enjoyable than the traditional sand environment.

After receiving the Harvester ants we bought online, we put them in the refrigerator a short while to give them a chance to "chill". Apparently the cooler air makes them a bit sluggish, diminishing the little rascals from wanting to make a run for it when trying to introduce them to their new environment. This of course makes for a more pleasant transfer to the gel ant farm.

Watching the Ants Build An Ant Tunnel

The instructions for the gel ant farm recommend making four holes of two different depths in the gel with the included stick. These holes will be entries for the ants to help them begin tunneling. One tip is to make one or two holes closer to the side of the container. It is very intriguing to watch the ants tunnel from these tunnels that are on the sides of the container. It was great seeing the ants progress within 24 hours of placing them in the container.

The Gel Environment

The Fascination Ant Gel is a nutrient rich environment for the ants. There is no need to feed them or provide water. Everything the ants need to survive is contained in the Nasa Ant Gel. The instructions do recommend carefully lifting the lid of the container once a week to provide a breath of fresh air for the hard workers!

The ant life expectancy is an average of 12 weeks. As the ants die, the other ants bring the dead ants to the surface. This makes for easy removal of the dead ants. Our ants lasted 10 weeks, just short of the average of 3 months.

The Gel Ant Farm Makes a Great Gift!

With the gel ant farm container dimensions of 6 inches high, about 6 -1/2 inches wide, and just about 1 1/2 inches deep it is a nice size for a desktop, countertop, or a shelf. The ants are enjoyable to watch as they persevere in their tunnel building. Having the Fascinations Antworks Illuminated gel ant farm is a great gift that is enjoyable for all ages!

Enjoy this time lapse video of a working gel ant farm!

This Bissell Vacuum Makes Vacuuming Easy!

2009-09-25T07:00:00.007-04:00

It's been suggested I vacuum too often. What's considered too often? I figure the day I empty the vacuum canister and it's empty inside is the day to begin cutting back on daily vacuuming.

The tool I use to make this daily task more enjoyable is the Bissell 3 Way FeatherWeight 3106. This lightweight vacuum has power, versatility, and durabilty.

I have been enjoying using the Bissell 3106 Featherweight Lightweight Vacuum for just over two months. During this time I have found this vacuum to be ideal for our daily kitchen use. It collects dog hair well, as well as every day leaves, dirt, and food crumbs. The product performs well, generally collecting small and medium items with one pass.

The Bissell 3106 can be used in one of three ways: 1) as a floor vacuum with the floor nozzle, 2) as a hand vacuum, or 3) with the crevice tool or the floor tool as a multi-purpose vacuum. The crevice tool is especially handy for cleaning spills in cabinets, or carpeting along the wall molding.

I use the Bissell 3106 on the ceramic tile with the floor nozzle. The great thing about the floor nozzle is that is transitions easily to carpeting. So when I am vacuuming the ceramic floor, I can also vacuum the throw rug in the kitchen all without interruption.

The power cord is a good length on this vacuum and the attachments are very effective. I also like using the hand vacuum with the floor attachment on my steps thus avoiding managing the large upright vacuum on flights of stairs.

The Bissell 3106 Featherweight Lightweight Vacuum is a real joy to have as a cleaning tool, even if it is everyday!

The New LG Cell Phone the LG enV Touch

2009-09-24T12:54:00.008-04:00

I just got the LG enV Touch a few weeks ago and have been having a ball using it. The three things I like best about the phone so far are: 1) This is my first phone with a Qwerty keyboard....Love that I type one key for each desired letter!, 2) the phone plays music, and 3) the 3.2 megapixel camera.

Texting with the Qwerty Keyboard

This isn't my first cell phone, but it I do have to say that since having my LG enV Touch, this is the most texting I have done with my LG cell phone. It's so much easier to send a message, and there is the added bonus of the recipient of the message doesn't have to wait forever for my responses :)!

Listening and Enjoying Music

I have also enjoyed listening to music with my phone. It's been nice to have along while waiting somewhere or even in the car. The speakers on the LG enV Touch are great for listening or the 3.5mm headphone jack can be used to listen to music with headphones.

Taking Pictures Using the External Screen

And last but not least I have been enjoying taking pictures with the external screen on my LG enV Touch. The camera is a 3.2 megapixel camera with autofocus. Using the larger external screen makes taking pictures fun and easy!

The LG EnV Touch continues to be a pleasure to use. I look forward to learning about using the camera to make videos, changing the contact icons to show pictures of my family and friends, purchasing LG Cell Phone accessories and using the visual voice mail.

Vacation Thoughts and Memories

2009-04-24T13:39:00.003-04:00

We're back..from our Florida vacation. This year we visited Mom and Dad in New Port Richey at the beginning of the week and then we were all lucky to rendez-vous in Kissimmee for the remainder of the vacation. We had a lot of fun visiting with Grandmom and Grandddad, going to the beach, swimming in Grandmom's and Granddad's pool, eating out at restaurants, going to Seaworld and of course, we can't forget...eating chocolate cake! It was our second visit to the Wyndham Cypress Palms in Kissimmee and once again, it was a great place to vacation.

Enjoy the vidoes below highlighting our visit with Mom and Dad and our visits to Seaworld!