New Year's Eve Confetti Recall

I wanted to get your attention because I'm sure some of you out there have this product ready to go for New Year's Eve or an upcoming party. This is the type of product that small children would pick up and put into their mouths, as well. This latest recall came out 11/29/07.

DesignWare® Confetti Bursts

Distributor: American Greetings Corp., of Cleveland, Ohio

The surface paint on the individual bags of confetti contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

No injuries reported.

The recalled products contain confetti in plastic bags. When the bags are inflated, consumers squeeze the bag and confetti bursts out. Each package contains six confetti bursts.
Sold at: Discount, toy, drug, grocery, party, and specialty/gift stores nationwide from December 2003 through September 2007 for about $3.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled confetti bursts away from children and contact American Greetings for instructions on returning the confetti bursts to American Greetings to receive a coupon redeemable wherever American Greetings’ products are sold.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact American Greetings Corp. at (800) 777-4891 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.ag.com/

Photo Above

Reeves Breyer Horse Ornaments Recall

You may have purchased these horse ornaments for your tree or to give out as gifts for horse lovers. Be sure to check with your Breyer Horse collecting friends and family and get these out of your home. Do note that these cover 2006 and 2007 Christmas ornaments.

2006 Snow Princess Stirrup Ornaments, 2007 Holiday Stirrup Ornaments, 2007 Photo Frame Horse Shoe Ornaments
Distributor: Reeves International Inc., of Pequannock, N.J.

Surface paints on the ornaments contain high levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standards.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The 2006 Snow Princess Stirrup Ornament is a stirrup-shaped ornament with a white prancing horse and blue ribbons. “2006” is stamped on the rim of the ornament. The 2007 Wintersong Stirrup Ornament is a stirrup-shaped ornament with a grey horse with saddle bags with a horn and a violin. “2007” is stamped on the rim of the ornament. The 2007 Photo Frame Horse Shoe Ornament is a horse shoe shaped ornament with a brown horse with rider jumping over a gate. “Happy Holiday 2007” is printed on the back of the ornament.

Sold at: Various retailers nationwide, including JC Penney catalog and Web site, from July 2006 through October 2007 for between $15 and $18.

Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately stop using these ornaments and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund or contact Reeves International Inc. for a refund or exchange.
Consumer Contact: Contact Reeves International Inc. at (800) 444-4775 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit their Web site at http://www.breyerhorses.com/about/press.php#pressreleases to receive instructions for returning the ornaments.

The photo here is just one of the recalled models. Please see the http://www.cpsc.gov/ website for more information.

Johnny Depp - The Best Actor of Our Generation!

Let me start by saying that I have always loved Johnny Depp! It's really hard to say which one of his movie moments are his best, because the roles have been so different and versatile. I'd have to say that two of my favorites have to be 1) Captain Jack Sparrow from the original Pirates of the Caribbean - Curse of the Black Pearl, and reaching a few years back, 2) Roux from Chocolat.

Fans all love Captain Jack, but I love the way Johnny plays him. Who can resist the swaggering pirate. He certainly channeled Keith Richard. My favorite scene is Jack's movie entrance when he is coming into the harbor and his ship sinks beneath him as it comes into port. I believe this entrance sets the whole humorous undertone for the movie and his character - the scheming, but lovable Jack. And it's done mostly through non-verbal acting. Jack Sparrow is a great character who will stand the time in movie history.

In Chocolat, Johnny Depp plays Roux, an Irish gypsy who falls for the eccentric, but charming, French chocolatier. His performance as the romantic lead made me swoon. I guess you'd say Roux is a similar character to Jack, in that he is on the fringe of society and that is one reason he captivates Vianne, the lead. She is a rogue too, in trying to change the way the town looks at life's pleasures. I think this was a subtle performance and he also showed off his musical talents.

Even though Johnny's Jack Sparrow character will always be my favorite, I look forward to seeing his new characters develop. I'm looking forward to seeing how the singing Sweeney Todd comes to life under Johnny's guidance. I've never seen the stage musical, but I did know what it was about. It sounds very macabre and interesting and Johnny Depp and director Tim Burton have never gone wrong when it comes to presenting a great story. You can visit the official Sweeney Todd movie site where they have great information on the cast, the musical and wonderful snippets to whet your Johnny Depp appetite. You can also visit Sweeney Todd on MySpace to see more about Johnny's latest creation! I'm looking forward to seeing Johnny Depp sing!

Another Reason to Make Sure Your Kids Wash Their Hands....

Apparently, researchers continue to confirm what Moms and most doctors have been saying for a long time - that hand washing is the number one defense against most viruses and influenza. This is truly the worst season for illnesses in our family. Right now we've got two down and one more coming down with the Fall upper respiratory infections that seem to strike us about every 4 to 6 months. The two kids are on medicines and seem better, but my husband is looking bad and says he's feeling it coming on. Hand washing, hand washing! I tell them all the time, but they don't do it enough.

Maybe if they learn to sing the The Happy Little Working Song from Enchanted - The Movie, they'll be motivated to be much cleaner ;) Don't you parents just LOVE this Movie! Enjoy!

First Recall This Week - Boys Drawstring Jacket

The recalls are definitely less frequent this week...so far. Jackets with drawstrings are a hazard for children. They can get caught on playground equipment, in bike parts, or in car doors, for just a few examples. There have been prior cases of strangulation reported due to this hazard. My own child was hanging on the slide earlier this year due to a hood itself getting caught - good thing I looked out the window! The strings are even more dangerous. You can remove drawstrings and the hoods work just fine. Please visit Consumer Product Safety Commission for a list of all recalls.

Today this recall was announced:

Children's Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirts with Drawstrings Recalled for
Strangulation Hazard By Bon-Ton

Children's fleece hooded zip-up jackets with neck drawstrings

Distributor: The Bon-Ton Department Stores Inc., of York, Pa.

The garments have a drawstring through the hood, which can pose a strangulation hazard to children. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist by drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets
and sweatshirts.

No injuries have been reported at this time.

The recalled hooded zip-up sweatshirts are for Boys 8-20 and were made under the "Burnside" brand. The sweatshirts came in boys' sizes small, medium, large and X-large and have various designs on the front. The recalled models have "RN # 39209" printed on the tag.

Sold at: Bon-Ton, Bergner's, Boston Store, Carson Pirie Scott, Elder-Beerman, Herberger's and Younkers stores nationwide and Parisian stores in the Detroit area from August 2007 through October 2007 for between $18 and $30.

Manufactured in: Bangladesh, India and Pakistan

Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings from the sweatshirts to eliminate the hazard or return the garment for a refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information contact Bon-Ton toll-free at (866) 798-2875 anytime or visit Bonton.com.

I'm Doing Only Online Christmas Shopping This Year

As I've written before, I really hate going to the malls to shop for Christmas presents. I totally avoided Black Friday by shopping exclusively online. I've never had any trouble returning items and I'm saving gas too. I've been shopping for tech bargains this year, as we are looking at getting a new computer for our online business soon. We've had our current one for over five years and I'm kind of worried about it failing unexpectedly - which has happened with a prior computer! We're like to look for the best deals and I really like techbargains.com because they do the searching for us. We've signed up for the email newsletter which will send us alerts for the items we want to buy. I liked that I can choose what deals

I'm also in need of a new digital camera and was pleased to use this service and the site to compare deals. They have a wonderful database with reviews and comparisons, so it has been really easy to choose between the models. They keep the site updated 24 hours per day, and they add new deals several times per day. I love finding coupons and they have tons of them, so check it out, save some gas and find what you need online this year!

Test for Lead Paint at Home - Check Toys and Household

You can test your toys at home with a home lead testing kit. I found these home lead tests online and have ordered them myself to try out. They can also be used to test all kinds of surfaces in your home, such as painted surfaces, ceramic tubs and sinks, and mini blinds. I found their website very informative. Since we currently live in a pre-1978 built home, I am definitely going to test the old fixtures and the blinds as well.

Dancing Pooh

Funny Video! DD2 Thinks this is her own daddy, check out the daddy-moves! Cool Dancing!

Updated List of Hot Toys for Christmas 2007

I posted my Santa's toy list a few days back, but here's another list of hot toys for Christmas 2007 : They are predicted to be very difficult to find this year for your children. I'm already keeping an eye out for some of them now. We already have a few, and unfortunately, we have several November and December birthdays to buy for as well. We are trying to keep the China factor limited though.

American Idol Talent Challenge

Aqua Dots Super Studio (Update - This is Now a Recalled Toy! - No Longer should anyone have these!)

Barbie Girls

Eye-Clops (Update - we got this one)

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock (we will be asking for more Wii games)

Hannah Montana Singing Dolls and Pop Star Stage (We got these)

Nerf N-Strike Disc Shot

Rubik’s Revolution

Fisher-Price Smart Cycle

Spotz

SwypeOut Online Battle Racing

Transformers Arm Blasters & Transformers Movie Ultimate Bumblebee

Happy Black Friday to You...

I am happy to say I won't be out there with you mega-shoppers and your walkie-talkie carrying shop buds. I will be tucked away, snug in my little bed, with visions of comfy blankies in my head. It is simply not worth it to me to lose sleep and have slugfests with old women over the one "whatever" that Walmart decided to put on special at 5 a.m. Yes, I know, some of you live for this day, to feel like you get a chance to beat "the man" and take some of his retailing profit away, but you are deceived. You are playing into their hands....

In your sleep deprived state, you'll buy more, you'll eat more and you'll blow your credit limit faster than you can say (fill in with funny line here...I'm too full to think of a good one yet). You'll probably end up spending more than you ever planned and 6 weeks later as Christmas approaches, you'll forget what you bought (since it will be hidden in the closet) and you'll buy even more! So I won't be out feedin' the man, I'll be sleepin' in and doing internet shopping when appropriate sales are out and enjoying myself. Have fun, shoppers!

First Friday Weekend Artwalk in St. Augustine

America’s oldest city, St. Augustine, Florida, is home to many artists and art-lovers. On Friday and Saturday, December 7th and 8th, along with the first Weekend of each month thereafter, the city comes alive with music and art exhibits. Grab a date and head out to enjoy your own First Friday Weekend Art Walk. We live very nearby, so we've had the opportunity to enjoy the St. Augustine Artwalk several times. It's really a fun way to spend a Friday evening, especially now that the weather is cooler and the holiday lights are out all over the city.

The art galleries of St. Augustine sponsor FREE, self guided monthly Artwalks, featuring the finest collection of eclectic art in North Florida. You can wander at your leisure, enjoy free appetizers and wine at a lot of the galleries, and get a little exercise. It's sometimes difficult to find parking, so it's really nice that they offer free parking and free Sightseeing Train and Trolley tours.

There's a little bit of everything available to see, painting, sculpture, pottery, photography...you'll find a treasure to take home to remember your special night out. I love the little watercolors of the historic homes and also photographs of the fort. So, maybe we'll see you there in a few weeks to enjoy the arts!

The Weirdest Toys in the World

I stumbled upon this today and had to share. This is just partly because of my bad sense of humor and maybe seeing too many toy recalls. Please check out the very bizarre and funny link to The Weirdest Toys in the World. At least that is what I call them all - I guess the USA is not the only country in need of toy recalls.

Send Your Children Letters From Santa Claus

I always enjoyed writing letters to Santa Claus each year until I was about eight years old. It was that year I found the Santa present stash stored in my parents' garage. They didn't make up some happy story when I confronted them about it. I kind of wish they had......

Christmas is about magic! My oldest is a questioner and she has her doubts, that's okay. But I won't confirm her suspicions about the reality of Santa. Because I do think Santa is real! Also, Santa's elves will be arriving today bearing notes, mayhem, and tiny gifts until Christmas. We all help make Santa real through our thoughts and actions! Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus! You can help keep the Christmas magic going yourself by using Santa Letters! Your child will get a Personalized Letter from Santa I think this is really cool. You help create special memories your kids will treasure forever!

Ho Ho Ho Ho....No No No! More Recalls Kickoff the Holidays!

I wish I didn't have to write about the newest recalls out today. I'm trying to stay hopeful and merry and bright this season. I wanted to hope that all the recalls were done....I was wrong.

There is an unfortunate array of products in today's recalls, from children's toys and jewelry, to baby Boppy covers, to ELMO teacher's visual aid equipment to school supplies. So get ready to take a look, again, at what you and your children own and get ready to toss out and return some more. As always, you can check out the Consumer Product Safety Commission website for details, photos, and contact information for all of the products I've highlighted today.

Flashing Pacifiers or 2-in-1 Flashing Pacifiers with Whistle Necklaces
Sailing (U.S.) International Corp
The nipple can detach from the base, posing a choking hazard to young children.
Pacifier necklace has a 28-inch multicolored cord with a 3- inch plastic pacifier that comes in assorted colors. A hole at the tip of the nipple is used as a blow hole for the whistle. The pacifier handle operates as the on-off button for the flashing light on both pacifiers. “Flashing Pacifier” or “2-in-1 Flashing Pacifier with Whistle Necklace” is printed on the packaging of the pacifiers.
Sold by Various retail stores nationwide during the month of June 2007 for about $5 per dozen.
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should immediately stop using the pacifiers and return them to the store where purchased to receive a full refund or discard the pacifiers.

Children’s Pencil Pouches
by Raymond Geddes & Co., of Baltimore, Md.
The paint on the pencil pouches’ zipper pulls contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
The recall includes “Stuff Keepers” pencil pouches and “Bear Pencil Pouches.” The “Stuff Keepers” pencil pouches are clear vinyl, measure 9 inches by 6 inches, and have a green, orange, pink or blue-colored zipper. Style number 63525 is printed on the packaging. The “Bear Pencil Pouches” have soft fabric with a stuffed bear face, and measure 9 inches by 3 inches. Style number 67221 is printed on the packaging.
Sold by School supply distributors in schools nationwide from September 1997 through October 2007 for between 50 cents and $2.
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should immediately take the recalled pencil pouches away from children and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. If unable to return to the store where purchased, contact Raymond Geddes & Co. directly.

Sparkle City Charm Bracelets and Tack Pin Sets/Sold in Big Lots Stores
By Buy-Rite Designs Inc.
The recalled jewelry contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
The recalled charm bracelets have silver-colored star and butterfly charms, and clear and pink beads that hang from a silver-colored chain. The tack pins are silver butterflies or stars with clear and pink beads.
Sold in Big Lots stores nationwide from August 2005 through April 2007 for about $1.
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should immediately take the recalled jewelry away from children and return it to the store where purchased for a full refund. If unable to return it to the stores, contact Buy-Rite for information on how to receive a refund.

Decorative Stretchable Aqua Bracelets Sold by Cherrydale Fundraising
By Cherrydale Fundraising, of Allentown, Pa.
The bracelets contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
The recalled bracelets are stretchable, with silver-colored square links and aqua-colored beads. SKU#5384706813 is printed on the packaging.
Sold by Various dollar stores, liquidators, and schools as part of fundraising, nationwide from September 2003 through April 2007 for between $1 and $12.
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled bracelets and take them away from young children. Return them to the store where purchased or contact the firm to receive a full refund.

Children’s Metal Necklaces and Bracelets
By Colossal Jewelry & Accessories Inc., of Maywood, N.J.
The recalled jewelry contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
The recalled metal necklaces and bracelets have silver-colored charms. Some also have colored beads. “Awesome Boutique” or “Share the Love” is printed on some of the jewelry’s packaging. The jewelry includes a necklace with a metal flower-shaped charm that hangs from a pink cord, a metal heart charm bracelet, a metal heart angel charm bracelet with colored beads, a metal bracelet with four heart charms and ruby-colored beads, necklaces with painted hearts that hang from a cord, and necklaces with tiny purses in various colors.
Sold in Various discount and dollar stores nationwide from January 2005 through June 2007 for about $1.
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should immediately take the recalled jewelry away from children and return it to the store where purchased for a full refund.

La Femme NY Children’s Necklace and Earring Sets
By La Femme NY 2 Inc., of Brooklyn, N.Y.
The recalled jewelry contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
The recalled necklace and earring sets have a silver metal chain and a round pendant with a light blue jewel and three jeweled dangling charms.
Sold By Various dollar stores nationwide from October 2005 to April 2007 for about $1.
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should stop using this product immediately and return it to the store where it was purchased to receive a full refund.

Crystal Innovations Jewelry Sold by Michaels
Distributor: Pure Allure, of Oceanside, Calif.
The recalled metal jewelry contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
The recalled products are metal jewelry components. The SKU numbers can be located on the products’ packaging above the barcode. The following Crystal Innovations products are included in the recall:
See CPSC website for SKU numbers and descriptions, as there are many in this recall.
Sold by Michaels Stores nationwide from April 2006 to September 2007 for about $5.
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should immediately take these jewelry pieces away from young children and return it to the store where purchased for a full refund.

Shaving Paint Brushes
by Discount School Supply
Surface paint on the brush handles can contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
The recall involves a set of six “shaving-style” brushes, which are about 4-inches long. The brushes’ handles are painted blue, purple, orange, yellow, lime green, and pink. The item number #SHVBRSH is printed on the product’s packaging. Brush sets with handles in brown, dark blue, red, green, blue, and black are not included in this recall. The recalled brushes were also included with the “BioColor® Foam Paint Starter Kit” and “Colorations® Foam Paint Starter Kit.”
Sold by: Discount School Supply’s catalog and Web site from May 2004 through August 2007 for about $5. The BioColor® kits were sold from May 2004 through June 2006 for about $60. The Colorations® kits were sold from July 2006 through August 2007 for about $60.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the brushes immediately and contact Discount School Supply to receive a free replacement brush set.

Rachel Rose and Distinctly Basics Assorted Metal Jewelry
By Family Dollar Stores, of Charlotte, N.C.
The recalled jewelry contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
The recalled jewelry was sold under the Rachel Rose and Distinctly Basics brands and includes key rings and pins with religious themes (crosses and fish symbols), key rings with "Mom" and cheerleader charms; bracelets with charms like handbags, flip flops, hearts, dresses, and flowers; silver-colored rings with designs or stones in a variety of colors; clutchless hoop earrings with decorations such as butterflies; and filigree and long drop earrings with stones in a variety of colors.
Sold at: Family Dollar stores nationwide from January 2003 through August 2007 for between $.50 and $2. A complete list of the recalled jewelry can be found at www.familydollar.com
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should immediately take the recalled jewelry away from children and return it to a Family Dollar store for a full refund.

Boppy® Slipcovers
The Boppy Company, of Golden, Colo.
The zipper pull on the slipcovers can break, posing a choking hazard to young children. In addition, paint on the zippers contains excess levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint standard.
This recall involves velvet and boa slipcovers intended for use with the Boppy® Bare Naked nursing and support pillow.

Slipcovers recalled due to a choking hazard were sold in three color combinations and have the following UPC and date codes found on the California Flammability Law tag. Slipcovers sold in clear vinyl packages are labeled Boppy® Luxe.
See CPSC for colors/fabrics as they are numerous.

Slipcovers recalled due excessive levels of lead paint were sold in four colors and have the following UPC and date codes found on the care instructions label and on the exterior of the packaging. Slipcovers sold in display boxes are labeled Boppy® Soothing.
Sold by: Slipcovers recalled due to choking hazard were sold at discount department stores nationwide from July 2006 through September 2007 for about $16. Slipcovers recalled due to lead paint were sold at discount department stores nationwide from February 2007 through September 2007 for between $15 and $17.
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should stop using these products immediately and contact The Boppy Company for a free replacement product.

Visual Presenters (sold as Image Presentation Cameras by Epson) by ELMO
Distributor: ELMO USA Corp. of Plainview, NY
Manufacturer: ELMO Co. Ltd., of Japan
Improperly installed fluorescent top lights in the presenter can overheat, posing a fire hazard.
Visual presenters capture images to LCD panels, LCD projectors and TV monitors. The recall includes presenters sold under the ELMO, Epson, Doar Communications, Vtel and Tandberg brand names. The presenters were manufactured between December 1993 and December 2003. The manufacturer information is located on the side, rear and bottom of the main body of the following ELMO model numbers, EV-500AF, EV-400AF, EV-6000AF, EV-8000AF, HV-5000XG, HV-7000SX, HV-8000SX, EV-4400AF, HV-5100XG and Epson model ELPDC02.
Sold by: Elmo dealers, office supply stores and other retailers nationwide from December 1993 to June 2006 for between $2,600 and $9,000.
Manufactured in: Japan
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled visual presenters immediately and contact Elmo USA for all models except Epson. All Epson owners should contact Epson. Consumers with recalled units will receive a free inspection and repair.

Another Christmas in Iraq - Making it Brighter!

This will be another Christmas in Iraq for the hardworking men and women of the armed forces. Recognizing that this is a real hardship for their families and to show support for them all, Gallery Collection has made a fantastic donation in conjunction with the support/aide group Soldiers Angels. They just donated a greeting card to be mailed to each soldier that wishes them Happy Holidays and Happy New year and tells them Thank You! Each serviceman or woman will also receive a blank card and envelope for them to write back home. They'll all receive these cards along with wonderful care packages sent by Soldiers Angels.

Gallery Collection is a Corporate Christmas Cards Company specializing in truly beautiful greeting cards. These days it's so easy to find cheapo cards with basic messages, but harder to find works of art to inspire those who will be recipients of your holiday joy.

You'll find some of the prettiest choices at their site, so go take a look and support them for supporting our troops

Thanksgiving - Giving Thanks!

It's really easy to get caught up in the downside of the holidays. The preparations, the family squabbles, the lack of money, etc. Remember the really reason that Thanksgiving was created...to give thanks...for anything in your family lives that you are grateful for.

Oprah did a good thing (sorry, Martha!) when she helped promote the idea of keeping a daily journal highlighting the parts and people of your life that you are grateful for. People forget the good things in their lives when they are only worrying about the bad. Life is full of the good and bad...that's life. Take a moment to remember the good and be thankful.

We like to take a moment before the big feast and write down one thing or moment that we are thankful for...then we draw them out and read them. We didn't always do this, it's a more recent addition to our holiday. But it always makes you think. Babies are born, people die, hardships happen, joyful reunions occur....what will you put on your list?

What are the Worst Working Conditions You've Endured?

When I was a new babe in the working office world, I started working at a bank. They started everyone out in the Collections Department...basically calling deadbeats for past due bills. They claimed that this would build your character, if you were going to be giving out loans later. I don't know about that, but the situation sure made for a cast of characters that rivaled "The Office".

I had a pregnant coworker threatened by a man holding an iron, when she went to his door to collect his past due payment (that's right.....our employer sent pregnant women out to collect door-to-door, but that's another story), I had to drive a hooker home after they repossessed her car, because none of the men would be alone with her. I also had a woman count me out $500 in cash in the worst crime-ridden neighborhood in the city to pay for her past due account. I fully expected to be jumped as I walked to my car, but thankfully was not.

We had no less than 4 different couples in the department having affairs, some married some, not. We had a gruff, biker repo man working for us that no one wanted to talk to, we were all scared of him...but we had to talk to him and pay him. That's just the tip of the iceberg...oh, and ALL the men in the department thought it was their right to go to strip clubs during working hours for lunch, often more than once per week....yes, it wasn't a women-friendly workplace. This was over 20 years ago.

But things haven't changed that much, have they? Tell me all about it.....

3 Fun and Unique Gifts for Anyone!

Christmas is a time to have fun and enjoy your family! It's a great time to bring smiles to their faces. It's really fun to find a few quirky items for those hard-to-buy-for family on your Christmas list. I've found three fun unique gifts that would make anyone happy! We got a chance to sample these with our family and all of them were hits! We live with my parents and our elementary aged children, so we have three generations of people with divergent tastes to please.

The first big hit was the Video Fireplace DVD. We live in Florida, where in the winter, we rarely have cold weather. It can be really hard to get the mood for the holidays without a fire. That's taken care of with this great DVD which gives you lots of options of fireplace fires to enjoy on your TV. We'll crank this baby up on the 80 degree Christmas Eve we almost always have! Can Santa come down the DVD this year? Does that even make sense?

The second fun little item is called the Smencils Gourmet Scented Pencil. They are really strongly-scented usable pencils with the smells of gourmet foods. We tried out Rootbeer flavor. The kids thought it was cool, it smelled exactly like a freshly-opened can of rootbeer. Smencils are made from recycled newspapers and bathed in cool scents that last! Even the shavings smell good. This would be a really great stocking stuffer for kids of all ages, especially people who love scents. Or teachers!

The third fun gift is called Insta Snow Fake Snow Powder. We looked at this tiny bag of white powder with some trepidation. The simple instructions say to add 10 ounces of water and get instant snow! Well, that sounded good too, since we rarely see a flake in north Florida. Here's what happened...we added water to our little packet in a bowl and instantly it exploded into a giant bowl of snow! It feels soft and cool and really looks like snow! The instructions on the website said we could actually make a snowman so we tried this by freezing it for an hour, but the kids couldn't wait that long and hauled it outside to start playing! The photo shows my little one enjoying the Insta Snow in Florida! You could use this stuff to make snow for your little fake Christmas scenes, surround your model train sets, or just play with it. It is also non-toxic, so you could, theoretically, eat some (bleh). They actually sell a size that would make 8 gallons of fake snow - I think it would be funny to dump into someones hot tub! This makes the Fake Snow Powder a great little stocking stuffer for people who can't find the real stuff!

Protect Yourself from MRSA Super Bug

I found this article to be very interesting and informative. Please be on the lookout for any signs and symptoms of a virulent MRSA infection of the skin, as described below.

According to the November 2007 Baptist Health Life in the Circle Newsletter, about one-third of healthy people carry staph—as it’s called for short—on their skin or in their nose without getting sick. However, staph can cause pneumonia or infections of the skin, joints, or blood. "Staph is the most common germ you have on your skin and body," explains Mobeen Rathore, MD, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at Wolfson Children's Hospital and the University of Florida/Jacksonville. "Only a small percent of people get sick with it." These infections are usually treated with antibiotics called beta-lactams.

Staph can mutate and change from a benign organism to a deadly one. About one percent of the population carry this type of staph, known as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Not all people carrying MRSA get sick, but patients with MRSA infections are likelier than those with regular staph infections to have a serious illness, stay in the hospital for a long time or die. Serious bloodstream infections, pneumonia or surgical wound infections can result.

Early symptoms include:

• Boils or pimples on the skin that may feel warm or drain pus
• Fever
• Rash

In the community, the following people are at risk of catching MRSA:

. People who have had surgery or been in a hospital during the past year
· Those with weak immune systems
· Athletes who share personal items such as towels
· Children in daycare
· Large groups of people living together

Prevention Is Key

Hand washing with soap and warm water is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against MRSA. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers work, too.

The following steps can help prevent community-associated MRSA:
· Wash your hands with soap and water. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer containing at least 62 percent alcohol for times you don't have access to soap and water.

· Cover cuts and scrapes with clean bandages. Avoid touching other people’s used bandages.
· Don’t share razors, towels, clothing, athletic gear or other personal care items.
· Clean any rented or shared sporting equipment with an antiseptic solution before use.
· If you have a cut or sore, wash towels and bed linens in hot water with added bleach and dry them in a hot dryer. Wash gym and athletic clothes after each wearing.
· Shower immediately following athletic activity.
· If you have a skin infection that requires treatment, ask your doctor if you should be tested for MRSA. Always inform health care personnel if you have a wound or lesion that does not respond to initial therapy such as antibiotic ointment.

Walmart Children's Storage Rack and Hobby Lobby Halloween Baskets Recall

Two new children's products were put under recall this week by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. All details and color photos of the products may be found at their website. The products are listed below for your information - I am posting products that may affect children on my blog in hopes of helping parents prevent deaths and/or accidents with their precious children.

Jetmax International Ltd - 36,000 Boy’s and Girl’s Storage Racks with Canvas Totes
Hazard: The storage rack can tip over, posing an entrapment and suffocation hazard to young children. CPSC has received one report of a death involving an 8-month-old boy who was asphyxiated after he pulled on the storage rack and it fell over on him. The top rail landed on the infant’s neck. No other incidents have been reported.

Description: The storage rack is wooden with three levels and nine removable canvas totes. There are wooden handles on each side of the rack. The boy’s storage rack has natural color wood with red, yellow, green, and navy canvas totes. The girl’s storage rack has white colored wood with pink, yellow, lime, and purple canvas totes.

Manufactured in China

Sold at: Wal-Mart sold the storage rack under the brand “Home Trend Kids 9 Canvas Bin Boy’s and Girl’s Organizers.” Sold at Wal-Mart stores nationwide from August 2004 through July 2005 and Ollie’s stores nationwide from July 2006 through June 2007 for about $40.

Parent Action: Consumers should immediately stop children from using the recalled storage racks and contact Jetmax International to receive a free repair kit that adds stability to the base. For additional information, contact Jetmax at (800) 689-2168 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT, visit the firm’s Web site at www.jlwoodenmfg.com, or email info@jlwoodenmfg.com

Hobby Lobby Halloween-Themed Baskets
Units: About 10,000
By Hobby Lobby Stores Inc

Hazard: Surface paint on the bat, pumpkin and witch emblems attached to the baskets contain excess levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint ban.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

This recall involves all 2007 Halloween-themed baskets with item number 5464201. The item number is located next to the price on the paper hangtag on the handle. The plastic baskets are either black or orange with two carrying handles. An emblem of a witch, bat or pumpkin is attached to each side of the handle. The baskets measure 3 inches wide by 6 inches long by 4 ½ inches deep.

Sold at: Hobby Lobby stores nationwide from August 2007 through November 2007 for about $1.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should take the baskets away from children immediately and return them to Hobby Lobby for a $2 exchange card.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Hobby Lobby at (800) 326-7931 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.hobbylobby.com

Amazing Ways to Tie Your Sneakers

I stumbled upon this blog post today, Amazing Ways to Tie Your Sneakers. There must be 50 ways to lace and tie your funky shoes. Who knew? I've got to tell you I've never done any other way except the way I learned when I was five years old. I think I will re-lace my Reeboks and see if I can be way cool at age 44. Check it out!

Personalization Makes Your Child's Christmas Special

Personalized Gifts for Children make great Christmas Gifts! Kids love to see their names in print, especially on specially created toys and Christmas items. I have worked each year to create a special Christmas ornament collection for each of the children. I label each year's ornament with their names, so that when they grow up and leave the nest, they'll have starter ornaments from our family Christmases to take with them for their new families. With personalized ornaments, that makes this fun yearly quest just a little easier, since their name will already be there!

Parents Call for Recall of Mattel Hot Wheel Maniacs Car

Parents in Australia are calling for another Mattel toy to be pulled from the shelves. Hot Wheels Maniac is a car

"with a digital driver who according to the
literature, "begs, pleads and asks for more pain. Kids can over-feed, electro
shock and torture these digital drivers"."

Mothers groups are outraged there and are calling for the toys' removal due to its abhorrent messages for children and adults about torture and violence.

I did a quick search for them and found them at EToys. The description says "Meet the Maniacs, digital drivers ready for some out-of-control action. Spin 'em, flick 'em or press their buttons for hilarious reactions, cool games and crazy interactive fun. But best of all, you're calling the shots as you take these gassy goofballs on a drive to remember."

I'll bet they'd remember your children torturing them until they scream.....who designs this crap, anyway! I'm behind the Australians all the way with this one.

Santa Banned from Saying Ho Ho Ho

I laughed when I read this story. In Australia, recently hired Santas said they were told not to say "ho, ho, ho". Instead they are to say, "ha, ha, ha", because it was said that "ho" can be offensive to women. Give me a break! The Santas are appropriately outraged! Tell any "ho" that is offended by "ho, ho, ho" to go back where they came from!

Let's all get with the Christmas spirit and say "ho, ho, ho" to everyone we meet this year. And, by the way, head over to Santa's blog to keep the spirit going all this holiday season!

Bumbo Safety Video

Enjoy the latest video from Ready Set Bumbo - Bumbo Safety Instruction Video. Awesome! If only all safety videos were this cute and interesting. And if you have little ones, please be safe! Never use a Bumbo on an elevated surface!

I'm Sending My Gynocologist a Present!

It's been a while since I've updated anyone who is interested in my post-op hysterectomy progress. I had my laproscopic supracervical hysterectomy in mid June of this year. Things have never been better. I kept waiting for the monthly restarting of "trouble" that the forums warned me about, recurring pain, or some other "trouble"...and there's been....nothing! No trouble at all! No pain, no flows, nothing at all! I could not be happier! I truly plan on a sending some sort of gift to the doctor this year to thank them all. I was really worried about doing surgery and had lived for years with nightmarish bleeding and pain. I had anemia and little energy - well things are happy! Please feel free to email me if you need my doctor's name or information.

Today is my Nephew's Birthday

Today is my nephew's birthday. He's turning 8 today. Happy Birthday! November is the annual birthday month extravaganza. We also have one in March. November's extravaganza is:

Nov 4 - My grandmother (now deceased)
Nov 10 - My dad
Nov 11 - My nephew
Nov 16 - me
Nov 20 - my husband
Nov 25 - my cousin

We usually have had the big birthday month combined in with Thanksgiving and I'm sure we'll do that for me and my husband, since we had the big dad 70 yesterday. I still feel bad from drinking too much wine, so we're mellowing out.