Christmas, then the Birthday!

We have just returned from our Christmas outing to my husband's family. We left well, all but one came home sick - so far that's me...the one. I guess I'll count my blessings that no one has thrown up this holiday season...yet! I think think that makes this one the first in five years or so.

My youngest's 6th birthday is fast approaching on New Year's Eve. In the past, we've done her party with kids either before Christmas break or far after, but this year we're actually going to try to have the party on her real birthday! But I have made a grave error....

I thought no one would want to come to a holiday time birthday party....boy was I wrong! I invited all the girls from her class, her Daisy troop, her soccer team and a few from dance, as well as a few of her sister's friends to act as helpers. Almost everyone is coming! Now, all I can do is pray for no rain, decent temperatures and improved health for the birthday child!

Season's Recalls Part 2 - Lenox Warmers, Christmas Decorations and Christmas Themed Toys

Here are the most recent Christmas themed item recalls. I've included candles and decorative items, as well as any Christmas themed toy items.

Lenox Covered Warmer Dishes with Rack
Importer/Distributor: Lenox Group Inc., of Bristol, Pa.
Flames from the tea candle can extend up the sides of the dish. In addition, a label on the bottom of the dish causes excessive smoke when exposed to the flame. This poses fire and burn hazards to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received eight reports of flames extending up the sides of the dish and smoking. No injuries have been reported.

This recall involves covered ceramic warmer dishes with a rack and tea light candle. A label with “Lenox” and the SKU number is on the bottom of the warming dish. The following pattern/SKU warmer dishes are included in this recall.
Holiday - 782673, Winter Greetings - 782697, Holiday Gatherings - 782670, Orchard & Bloom -
783368, Butler’s Pantry - 783357, Butterfly Meadow - 783362

Sold at: Lenox and department stores nationwide from October 2007 through December 2007 for about $30.
Manufactured in: China (rack and tea light), Indonesia (ceramic dish)

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled warming dish with rack and tea light and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Lenox at (800) 635-3669 Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.lenox.com/recall

SMC Christmas Candle Sets
Distributor: Specialty Merchandise Corporation (SMC), of Simi Valley, Calif.
The snowman candle could tip over and the exterior coating on both candles can ignite, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

This recall involves the 2-pieced Snowman and Christmas tree candle set. The snowman candle measures 6 and ¼ inches high and the Christmas tree candle measures 7 inches high.
Sold through: SMC’s catalog from October 2003 through September 2007 for between $4 and $13.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should stop using the candles immediately and contact SMC to return the candle for a refund of the original purchase price.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact SMC at (888) 839-8757 or visit the company’s Web site at www.smcorp.com/recall

Jo-Ann Stores Children’s Robbie Ducky Holiday Water Globes
Importer: Jo-Ann Stores Inc., of Hudson, Ohio
The painted base of the water globes contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled Robbie Ducky water globe is about 1-1/2 inches in diameter and sits on a 1-1/2 by 1-1/2 inch square base. There are four different globe designs including: Robbie Ducky on a red base, a reindeer on a green base, a penguin on a green base and a polar bear on a red base. “Holiday Inspirations Water Globe” is printed on the bottom of the globes.

Sold exclusively at: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft stores in Florida, Texas, Missouri and Georgia in November 2007 for about $5.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled globes away from children and return them to any Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft store for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Jo-Ann Stores toll-free at (888) 739-4120 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.joann.com or e-mail the firm at guest.services@jo-annstores.com

Season's Recalls - Toys, Kids Clothing, Bunk Beds and Baby Items Part 1 of 2

I'd say Seasons Greetings, but today, it's Seasons Recalls. I'm catching up on the recalls so you'll have all the current information available for recalls that potentially affect children or families. This is part one of two parts. Please see the next post for the balance of recent recalls. Please check http://www.cpsc.gov/ for photos and all details.


Super Magnets - Dollar Stores
Importer: Man’s Trading Company, of Brisbane, Calif.
The magnet attached to the bottom of a small toy panda can detach. If swallowed or aspirated by young children, the magnets can attract each other internally and cause intestinal perforations or blockages, which can be fatal.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The ½-inch toys are shaped and painted to resemble panda bears. A small magnet is attached to the bottom of the toy. “Super Magnets” and the MTC logo are printed on the front of the packaging. The magnet toys are sold eight to a package.

Sold at: Dollar and gift stores nationwide from September 2005 through November 2007 for about $1.
Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should take the recalled toy away from children immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact MTC at (800) 388-7228 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.


Empire Silver/Sterling Silver Teething Rings

Manufacturer: Empire Silver Company, of Brooklyn, N.Y.
The silver ball that holds the ring in place can separate and release the beads inside. This poses a choking and aspiration hazard to infants.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled sterling silver teething rings were sold in three styles: single ring with ball, single ring with heart and ball, and three rings with ball. The hollow ring has small beads inside that make a rattling sound and a ball soldered between the rings.

Sold at: Independent jewelry, gift, specialty and department stores nationwide during November 2007 for between $50 and $120.
Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the teething rings from infants and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund or replacement.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Empire Silver Company at (800) 255-9475 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the company’s Web site at http://www.empiresilver.com/


Soldier Bear Toys/Army & Air Force Exchange Service
Importer/Retailer: AAFES (Army & Air Force Exchange Service), of Dallas, TX
Manufacturer: First Learning Company Ltd, of Hong Kong (wooden toys)
Manufacturer: Toy World Group Co. Ltd. of Hong Kong (military vehicle toy play set)
The surface paint on the toys contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves the following wooden toys and a plastic military vehicle toy playset. The style number, UPC codes and “Soldier Bear” logo are printed on the toy’s packaging.
Styles:
Wooden Pull-Along Learning Blocks Wagon (alphabet blocks in a wooden wagon) #6320, UPC
834162002158
Time Teacher (magnetic shapes & clock in pull cart) #6231, UPC 834162002646
Wooden Riding Horse #6349, UPC 834162003698
Vehicle Playset (blue military vehicle with action figures) #1007, UPC 4895130810072
Sold at: AAFES stores worldwide from August 2006 through October 2007 for between $5 and $20.
Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and return them to the nearest AAFES store for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact AAFES at (800) 866-3605 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.aafes.com/


Jewel brand girls’ hooded sweatshirts
Distributor: Liberty Apparel Co. Inc., of New York, N.Y.
The garments have a drawstring through the hood, which can pose a strangulation hazard to children. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines (pdf) to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist by drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The Jewel brand girls’ zippered hoodie sweatshirts have various designs on the front, and were sold in two styles: the “Big Heart” zip-up long sleeve hoodie sweatshirts (style #J2173k/sk) in black, light pink and purple colors, and the “Small Stars” long sleeve hoodie jacket sweatshirts (style #J2174k/sk) in green, khaki, navy and orange colors. Both styles were sold in small, medium, large, extra-large sizes.

Sold at: Marshalls and other specialty children’s clothing retailers nationwide from August 2007 through November 2007 for about $10.
Manufactured in: India

Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings to eliminate the hazard or return the sweatshirts to either the place of purchase or Liberty Apparel for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Liberty Apparel Co. collect at (212) 768-3030 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.


Victoria's Secret Holiday Cosmetics Stuffer Bears
Importer: Victoria’s Secret, of Columbus, Ohio
Manufacturer: Chang Zhou Ganghua Mfg., of China
Hazard: The neck medallion zipper pull can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: No injuries have been reported.

Description: The cosmetic stuffer bear was designed to hold cosmetics and/or gift cards. It is a plush bear with a zipper down the body. A “VS” neck medallion serves as the zipper pull. The bear was sold in pink and leopard.

Sold by: Victoria’s Secret Web site (www.victoriassecret.com) during October 2007 for about $8.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately stop using the stuffer bears and keep out of the reach of young children. Victoria’s Secret has sent consumers a postage paid return mailer enclosed. Customers returning the bear will receive a refund, postage and a $10 gift certificate.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Victoria’s Secret toll-free at (877) 260-8419 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.


Discount School Supply Giant Measuring Chart
Manufacturer: Discount School Supply, of Monterey, Calif.
The paint on the grow chart contains excess levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The Giant Grow Chart measures a child’s growth with a giant yellow ruler-shaped plastic chart. The grow chart also has a picture of a bean stalk painted on it from top to bottom.
Sold by: Discount School Supply catalogs and the company’s Web site from August 2000 through August 2007 for about $10.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should stop using the chart immediately and contact Discount School Supply to receive a credit or refund.
Consumer Contact: For more additional information, contact Discount School Supply at (800) 919-5242 between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday; visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.discountschoolsupply.com/Community/landing.aspx?campaignid=301 or email at chartrecall@discountschoolsupply.com


Dollar Tree Baby Toys Baby Bead & Wire Toys and Speed Racer Pull Back & Go Action! Cars
Importer: Greenbrier International Inc., of Chesapeake, Va.
The recalled toys contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The Baby Bead & Wire Toys are colored wires and colored beads that can slide on a natural wood platform. These bead toys have item number 903419 and date code 71 printed on the back of the packaging. The Speed Racer Pull Back & Go Action! Cars are yellow with black stripes and white with red stripes. Item number 873820 and date code 77 is printed on the back of the packaging.

Sold at: Dollar Tree, Dollar Bill$, Dollar Express, Greenbacks, Only One $1 and Deal$ stores nationwide from March 2007 through October 2007 (Baby Bead & Wire Toys) and from September 2007 through November 2007 (Speed Racer Cars) for $1.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take these toys away from children and return to the store where purchased for a refund. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Dollar Tree Stores at (800) 876-8077 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.dollartree.com/


Codeena Princess Children’s Metal Jewlery
Importer: Codee International, of Northvale, N.J.
The recalled jewelry contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

This recall involves the Codeena Princess children’s jewelry. Only jewelry with item numbers KS1367SS and KS1369SCP are included in the recall. The item number is printed on the back of the packaging. The children’s jewelry sets were sold in a variety of sets including pink or white pearl-like necklace, bracelet and earring or ring combinations. Some sets have studded charms dangling on the bracelet and the necklace.

Sold at: Discount stores nationwide from September 2005 through August 2007 for about $5.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled jewelry away from children and return to the store where purchased for a refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Codee International Corp. at (877) 767-1888 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.codeena.com/


Hooker Furniture Bunk Beds
Importer: Hooker Furniture Corporation, of Martinsville, Va.
The bunk beds have gaps between parts of the upper bunk that could allow a child’s body to pass through but not a child’s head. This poses an entrapment or strangulation hazard to children and exceeds the space allowed by the federal bunk bed safety standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled bunk beds come in twin-over-twin, twin-over-full and loft beds with the following model names: “Albany Park,” “Swedish Accents,” “Mariner’s Landing,” and “Chelsea’s Place”. The bunk beds come in cherry, white, and black finishes. Some of the bunk beds are also made of metal.

Sold at: Hooker Furniture retailers nationwide from August 2005 through August 2007 for about $1,000.
Manufactured in: Malaysia and Vietnam

Consumers should not allow children to use the recalled bunk beds and contact the retailer where purchased to schedule a free, in-home repair.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Hooker Furniture toll-free at (877) 705-8408 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.hookerfurniture.com/


Grocery Store Distributed/Food Lion/Publix Fishing Games
Importer/Distributor: Far East Brokers and Consultants Inc., of Jacksonville, Fla.
The recalled game has parts that contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled Fishing Game contains a fishing pole, one large battery operated fish, and three small wind-up fish. The UPC #011546208270 and product #25741 are printed on the product’s packaging.

Sold at: Grand Union Family Markets, Southern Family Markets, P&C Stores, Publix Super Markets, and Food Lion stores nationwide from October 2007 through November 2007 for about $10.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the product away from children and return it to the store where purchased for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Far East Brokers and Consultants toll-free at (877) 695-8354 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.fareastbrokers.com/


School Science Lab Horseshoe Magnets
Importer: United Scientific, of Waukegan, Ill.
Surface paint on the magnets contains high levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standards.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves horseshoe-shaped magnets sold in five sizes. The horseshoes have red paint on the surface of the magnet. Product numbers included in the recall are: SHM020 (two inch), SHM030 (three inch), SHM040 (four inch), SHM050 (five inch), and SHM060 (six inch).

Sold by: Independent distributors nationwide from March 1995 through September 2007 for about $1. Distributors sold the products to schools for use in science classes.
Manufactured in: India

Consumers should immediately stop using these products and contact United Scientific to receive a replacement product.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact United Scientific toll-free at (888) 284-8570 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or email the firm at consumeraffairs@unitedsci.com


Gamenamics Cordless Air-Powered Hockey Tables with Rechargeable Battery
Distributor: Gamenamics Inc., of Elgin, Ill.
The hockey table’s wires can overheat or melt, posing a burn hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Gamenamics has received eleven reports of burnt or melted wires. No property damage or injuries have been reported.

This recall involves cordless air-powered hockey tables with a rechargeable battery. The table can be folded and moved on attached wheels. The tables are 72-inches long and 38-inches wide and have a predominantly white surface with a bright blue aluminum rail. The playing surface contains the words “Jet Fan Hockey”. The recalled items have the numbers SG-504-6c and 73058 printed on the product’s carton.

Sold at: Hammacher Schlemmer and Sky Mall catalogs and Web sites from August 2006 through January 2007 and from June 2007 through July 2007 for about $400.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should stop using the air hockey table until they have installed the free repair kit. If consumers find wire damage, including burnt or melted wires, they should contact Hammacher Schlemmer to return the product for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, consumers should contact Hammacher Schlemmer by phone at (800) 227-3528 anytime, or e-mail at ustomerservice@hammacher.com


Infantino® Lion Teethers
Manufacturer: Infantino® LLC, of San Diego, Calif.
The plastic nose can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: Infantino® has received eight reports of the nose detaching, including one report of a child gagging on the bitten off nose.

This recall involves Infantino® lion teethers. The yellow and orange plastic teethers have date codes 6116, 6129, 6158, 6137, 0606, 0806, 0906, and 1006. The date codes are located on the back of the lion’s head, above the Infantino® logo. Lion teethers with other date codes are not included in this recall.

Sold at: Babies “R” Us, Pottery Barn Kids and other specialty stores nationwide from June 2006 through December 2007 for about $5.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should take the recalled toys away from young children immediately and contact Infantino® for a replacement teether or a product of equal value.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Infantino® toll-free at (888) 808-3111 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.service.infantino.com/

New Bumbo Video Outtakes - So Funny!

Here's the newest video from Ready Set Bumbo! It shows a lot of how they made the videos with the dog and baby and a lot of funny moments too! Looks like they have a series in development! Yay - Kodi and Baby!

A Great Toy Safety Site - Check Your Toys to See If Listed for Lead

Please head over to HealthyToys.org today and check to see if any toys you've purchased or own are included in their database. They have listings by alphabet and by brand, so you can see what chemicals are in the toys you are considering adding to your child's toy box. They list more than just lead paint, they list many other toxic ingredients you may not be aware of. Let me know what you think.

Holiday Eating Tips

A friend emailed this to me today - I'm sure it's floating around cyberspace, but it is funny....




Holiday Eating Tips

1. 1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.
2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. Like fine single-malt scotch, it's rare. In fact, it's even rarer than single-malt scotch. You can't find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-aholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!
3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.
4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.
5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?
6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.
7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.
8. Same for pies. Apple. Pumpkin. Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or, if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?
9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.
10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Reread tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner.

Letters From Santa for Kids

You still have time for your children to receive Letters From Santa in time for Christmas. Children love to get mail and what's better than a response from Santa Claus! They'll receive a personalized letter from Santa, customized to fit their activities and requests, as well as a beautiful postmarked envelope from the North Pole! For one low price and free shipping, the kids will also get a free customized door hanger and a follow-up postcard from Santa for after the big day!

Chase Has Sucky Credit Card Consumer Practices Afoot

Yes, I know my title could be better, but it's true! We just received a nasty little surprise from the Chase credit card folks. We've been cardholders for a number of years now, with never a late payment. We had been enjoying a very nice interest rate for a number of years and now they decided to increase it to the usurious level of 19.49%. In reading the notice mailed to us, it said they had used credit bureau information to increase our interest rate over 13% from it's prior level, effective in January 2008. I immediately checked our credit bureau and found nothing amiss. We have paid perfectly to everyone, every time.

I then went to Chase's website, hoping to find out more. That's where I found this little gem of a press release waiting:

"Chase Will No Longer Increase Rates Based on Credit-Bureau Information
WILMINGTON, DE (November 19, 2007) - Today, Chase Card Services announced the expansion of Chase Clear & Simple, an ongoing program designed to help Chase customers better understand and manage their accounts, with the adoption of new, clearer pricing practices.
Chase is eliminating a practice, commonly used in the industry, of increasing interest rates for individual cardholders when their credit-bureau scores decline. This change is effective on March 1, 2008."

Oh, really! I was shocked....here they are cleaning house, perhaps of people like us,with low interest rate cards, before their March 1st "consumer-friendly" lending practices begin. Could we be the only ones....I really doubt it. UPDATE - I am definitely not the only one - check out the various unhappy customers at the Chase Sucks discussion board. Also, Senator Carl Levin of Michigan has launched an inquiry this month (Dec 2007) into these unfair interest rate practices. I will be writing my letter to the Senator today.

Buyer Beware, the adage says, when the actions don't match the words, integrity is certainly not there! I recommend that you stay away from Chase Visa and Chase Mastercard, because their company doesn't stand behind what they are saying.

A Great Place for A Family Winter Break

If you've never been to Amelia Island, Florida, you need to make your travel plans now for a great family winter vacation. I've been visiting Amelia Island (home to Fernandina Beach) since I was a baby. It keeps getting better all the time. It is home to beautiful Victorian era homes and bed and breakfasts, fabulous independent restaurants, pristine beaches, and a great Civil War Fort. They are offering a wonderful special for accommodations to stay 2 nights and get the 3rd free at most of the wonderful bed and breakfasts and hotels on the Island! This special runs through February 29, 2008, so you can enjoy Christmas, New Year's and/or Valentine's Day with your spouse or the family. There are 12 participating hotels and B&B's offering this Lodging Special, including some of the one's I've stayed at and enjoyed. I can highly recommend Ash Street Inn, a Victorian home that offers spacious rooms with great breakfasts! I've also been to many events at the Elizabeth Pointe Inn, which sits right on Fernandina Beach!

My sister got married on Amelia Island after living there several years. My husband I have enjoyed the B&B stays for our anniversaries. Between the cute shops, the beach, the great food and the oldest bar in Florida, if not the USA, you can't beat the choices for entertainment. I may have to take advantage of this myself, even though we only live an hour away now.

Child-Related Recalls - Stroller, Hairstyling Iron

I am featuring the below recalls because they are items that I consider child-related recalled items. The first recall is for some models of Stokke Xplory® Strollers, being recalled because wheels have fallen off, causing child injuries. The second is Farouk Systems WEE CHI Ceramic Hairstyling Irons, as parents may have children and teens who would be using these hairstylers. They are being recalled due to potential burn and fire hazard caused by a problem with the on/off button. The details and photos for these and other recalls of the week can be found at the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.

Stokke/Xplory® Baby Strollers

A bolt that attaches each front wheel to the stroller can loosen, causing one of the front wheels to fall off, posing a fall hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 14 reports of one of the front wheels falling off, including one incident where a child received a scratch when she toppled out of the stroller. In addition, there were 244 reports outside of the United States of one of the front wheels falling off.

Only Xplory® baby strollers with serial numbers between 1 and 28,097 and with grey handles are included in the recall. The serial number is located under the foot plate. Strollers with white handles are not included in this recall.

Manufactured in: The recalled front wheels were manufactured in China and the strollers were made in Norway.

Sold through: Stokke distributors, Web site and juvenile product retailers nationwide from September 2003 through December 2006 for about $770.

Consumers should stop using the recalled strollers immediately and contact Stokke to arrange for a free replacement of the front wheels. Stokke will contact all known purchasers by e-mail or regular mail. Stokke notified its retailers and posted a recall notice on its Web site in May 2007.
Note: Some consumers have already received a repair to their stroller or are in the process of receiving replacement wheels. These consumers do not need to contact Stokke again.
Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Stokke toll-free at (877) 978-6553 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at StokkeUSA.

Farouk Systems/WEE CHI Ceramic Hairstyling Irons

The iron’s “on/off” switch was installed incorrectly. When the iron is plugged in and switch is in the “off” position, the iron remains “on,” which could pose fire and burn hazards. No injuries reported.

The recalled hairstyling iron is black and measures 9.5 inches long. “CHI” is printed on the iron in red lettering. Date code 0306 or 0507 is embossed on the inside of the paddle.

Sold by: Professional beauty supply distributors and beauty salons nationwide from April 2006 through September 2007 for about $160.

Manufactured in: South Korea

Consumers should stop using the product immediately and contact the firm to return the product for a full refund or replacement iron. Farouk Systems is directly notifying all distributors and retailers.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Farouk Systems Inc. at (800) 237-9175 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.Farouk.com.

I Don't Like the Ham Because It's Purple....

I wouldn't eat purple ham...would you? Well check out the comments my daughter's classmates wrote in an informal survey she did of friends about her school's cafeteria food offerings.

Here's what they said (spelled the way they wrote them):

I like: chocolate milk, carrots, broccoli, and steak (I've never seen them serve this yet!) - Maggi

I like: hotdogs & pizza. I don't like the strawberries...they are mushy. - Annie

I like the turkey, mash pothoes and papa jones pizza. I don't like everything else, except chiken nuggets - Nicole

I like cheese sticks and pizza - Papa Jhons and chicken nuggets. I don't like ham because it is purple, and I don't like anything else - Allie.

At least one kid mentioned the veggies....I have to chime in and say I've never eaten worse food in any cafeteria anywhere - I feel for them. It's all frozen and usually poorly prepared. Veggies and fruits are mushy/frozen and meats have too much salt or too little seasoning. I think she plans a full on assault by having all the kids write to the principal.

Children's Sunglasses Recall

You'll want to check out the children's eyewear for this recall. These sunglasses have excess lead hazard. Check the summer and swimwear bags as well. You can find photos and details at www.cpsc.gov.

FGX Children’s Sunglasses/Some Marked Foster Grant
Importer: FGX International Inc., of Smithfield, R.I.

Surface paint on the sunglasses can contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
The recall involves 15 styles of children’s sunglasses. The style name is printed on the product inside the left temple arm. The name “Foster Grant” may also appear on the temple arm of some styles. The styles included in the recall are: Balloon, Bond, Boom, Bubble Gum, Bullseye, Buzz, Conqueror Jr., Curly Q, Encompass Jr. IK, Fade IK, Gadget IK, Iceman, Lily, Outer Space, and Pluto. No other styles are included in this recall.

Manufactured in: China

Sold at: Various stores nationwide from January 2007 through November 2007 for between $3 and $11.

Consumers should immediately take these sunglasses away from children and return them to FGX International for a free replacement or refund, including shipping and handling.
Consumer Contact: Contact FGX International toll-free at (877) 227-0104 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.fgxi.com/productmatrix.html

Home Depot Recalls Holiday Figures - Santa, Snowmen, Bear

I kept this notice separate from the clothing recalls, since so many of us are putting up decorations right now. Children might play with these objects so check your decorations if you got them from Home Depot. Please visit the CPSC website for photos and detailed information on all recalls.

Home Depot/Various Holiday Figurines
Surface paint on the holiday figurines contains lead.
The recalled holiday figurines are painted plastic snowmen and bears. The SKU number is printed on the bottom of the product.

Holiday Bear Door Greeter, 17” x 16”, item 894-825

Snowman with “Let it Snow” Sign, Tabletop item, item 894-893

Three Snowmen with “Joy” Sign, 13” x 17”, item 898-964

Snowman Votive Holder, 7.5” x 7.5”, 967-467

Manufactured in: China
Sold exclusively at: The Home Depot stores from October 2007 through November 2007 for between $10 and $20.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the holiday figurines and return them to any Home Depot store for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact The Home Depot at (800) 394-2064 or visit the firm’s Web site at www.homedepot.com

Kmart & Sears Drawstring Clothing Recalled, Lead Paint on Potty Seats, Recall on Feeding Seat and More...

The CPSC just put out a long list of recalls today. Please be sure to visit www.cpsc.gov for photos and more detailed information. While it's good to see more vigilance on the part of the government and manufacturers, there needs to be more quality control before these products come to market.

Sears/TKS-brand children’s pants
The recalled pants have a ribbon belt at the waist that can pose an entrapment or entanglement hazard to children.
Name of Product: TKS-brand children’s pants

The recalled pants have a ribbon belt at the waist that can pose an entrapment or entanglement hazard to children.

Description: The recalled pants were sold in two styles. The first style (model numbers 62240 and 62254) is denim with a brown ribbon belt on the waistband. These pants have a sewn-on patch and an embroidered butterfly. They were sold in infant sizes 12 months, 18 months and 24 months and toddler sizes 2T, 3T and 4T. The second style (model number 62226) is khaki with a fabric belt on the waistband. They have two cargo pockets, one with an embroidered heart. The cuffs have buttons and plaid trim on the underside. They were sold in toddler sizes 2T, 3T and 4T.

Sold at: Sears stores nationwide from July 2007 through August 2007 for about $16.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the belt to eliminate the hazard.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Sears at (800) 659-7026 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.sears.com

Kmart/Basic Editions-brand girls' clothing sets
The recalled pants have a drawstring at the waist that can pose an entrapment or entanglement hazard to children.

The recalled two-piece clothing set has olive-colored knit pants with a fully-tunneled waist drawstring and a pink short-sleeved top with necktie. The set was sold in the following girls' sizes: 4/5, 6/6X, 7/8, and 10/12.
Sold at: Kmart stores nationwide during July 2007 for about $17 per set
Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings to eliminate the hazard.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Kmart at (800) 659-7026 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.kmart.com

Sears/Personal Identity-brand V-neck sweaters with hood
The recalled sweaters have a drawstring through the hood, posing a strangulation hazard to children. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines (pdf) to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist by drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts.

The recalled sweaters have a V-neck, hood and kangaroo pocket. The sweaters are either pink with charcoal stripes or blue with white stripes. They were sold in the following girls’ sizes: small, medium, large, and extra large.
Sold at: Sears stores nationwide during September 2007 for about $34.
Consumers should immediately remove the drawstring to eliminate the hazard.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Sears at (800) 659-7026 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.sears.com

The First Years 3-in-1 Flush and Sounds Potty Seats/RC2 Corp.
Decorative plaque inserted into the back of the potty seat could have orange paint that contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

The recall involves the First Years 3-in-1 Flush and Sounds potty training seats. Each seat has either a yellow chair with a green removable seat and a purple lift out-pot or a blue chair with a white removable seat and green lift out-pot. The words "100 Acre Wood" are molded on the chair back. The plaque inserted into the back of the seat contains molded Winnie the Pooh and Tigger characters.

Sold at: Mass and specialty retailers nationwide from April 2006 through August 2007 for between $20 and $25.
Consumers should keep these recalled items away from young children and should contact RC2 to receive a permanent clear protective cover that covers the plaque. The unit can still be used as a potty seat.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact RC2 toll-free at (866) 725-4407 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.recalls.rc2.com

The First Years Newborn-to-Toddler Reclining Feeding Seats/RC2 Corp.
The restraining straps can pull out of the waist strap slots, posing a fall hazard to young children.

RC2 has received 38 reports of straps pulling out or nearly pulling out of waist strap slots. There have been 12 reports of children falling out of the chairs.

The First Years Newborn-to-Toddler Reclining Feeding Seat can be adjusted between reclining and upright positions. The seat includes a tray, reversible cushion and a three-point safety belt. One side of the seat cushion has a sewn-in label at the top which says "the first years by Learning Curve." This recall includes all feeding seats except those with an "R" stamped inside a raised circle located on the far left and right of the back of the seatback or those with waist strap slots that are nine inches apart.

Sold at: Various retailers nationwide from November 2006 through October 2007 for about $30.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the feeding seat immediately and contact RC2 to obtain free replacement straps.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact RC2 toll-free at (866) 725-4407 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.recalls.rc2.com

Scope Apparel Boys’ hooded sweatshirts

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

The boys’ small and medium sized hooded zip-up sweatshirts have various designs on the front, and were sold in charcoal, navy blue and brown colors. “Whatever” and “RN#39209” are printed on the tag sewn into the jacket.

Sold At: Mass merchandise and specialty children’s clothing retailers nationwide from August 2007 through November 2007 for between $20 and $40.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings to eliminate the hazard, or return the sweatshirts for a full refund to either the place of purchase or Scope Apparel.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Scope Apparel toll-free at (888) 692-7129 ext. 0 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.scopeimp.com
Note: CPSC was notified about these garments by the Wisconsin Department of Consumer Protection.

Latest Recalled Toy From China.....

Check out what I just found online, it's the latest toy recall from China. Bet this kid wishes his parents were as vigilant as my readers here at Parent-Traps!

Baby Got Back Wedding Dance

I think this is so great! I wish I'd thought of something like this, but we were too overwhelmed to even function after our wedding! Check it out! These two have got it together for their wedding dance and their life together!

If You Were A Little Girl in the 70's....

My husband's cousin just emailed the below 1970's Girl's Stuff to me and I really liked it, so true...so if you know the original source, comment here and I'll link back to it and give credit where credit is due! They made me think about some things that happened recently. I opened my "time capsule" recently. No, it's not really a time capsule, but the giant box I have had since the 1970's, adding to it through college. It has mementos, letters, diaries (gasp! I love Jimmy Flack circa 1974), photos, and lots of junk.

The kids have recently been badgering me (ok, asking Santa) for the new American Girl dolls who are (ta-da) the ancient 1974 girls! They have accessories like the Puppy Love poster and the Brady Bunch lunch box! Am I the only one who feels really old when you find out American Girl has come out with dolls from your childhood! I had those clothes, I had that furniture (including the bright yellow plastic parsons table).

Anyway, in the time capsule, I found my Puppy Love poster. Yes, I had loved it so much that I put it in there and now it has come out again to see the light of day in 2007! I believe I put it on my hot pink bedroom wall in 1970? The windows had daisy curtains in pink, lime green and white, the carpet was green shag. God, I'm old. The good thing is my kids love everything from the 1970's now - so I guess we have a lot in common...although, I don't love the 1970's fashions anymore!

Check out these memories that were emailed to me and see if you can't relate.
If you were a little girl in the 70's...

You had that Fisher Price Doctor's Kit with a stethoscope that actually worked.












You owned a bicycle with a banana seat and a plastic basket with flowers on it.












You learned to skate with actual skates (not roller blades) that had metal wheels.











You thought Gopher from Love Boat was cute (admit it!)













You had nightmares after watching Fantasy Island.
















You had either a "bowl cut" or "pixie", not to mention the "Dorothy Hamill". People sometimes thought you were a boy.













You had rubber boots for rainy days and Moon boots for snowy days.
















YEAH! You owned a "Slip-n-Slide", on which you injured yourself on a sprinkler head more than once.












You owned "Klick-Klacks" and smacked yourself in the face more than once !










Your Holly Hobbie sleeping bag was your most prized possession.














You wore a poncho, gauchos, and knickers.














You begged Santa for the electronic game, Simon.













You had the Donnie and Marie dolls with those pink and purple satiny shredded outfits, or the sunshine family.

You spent hours in your backyard on your metal swing set with the trapeze. The swing set tipped over at least once.

You had a pair of Doctor Scholl's sandals (the ones with hard sole & the buckle). You also had a pair of salt-water sandals.

You wanted to be Laura Ingalls Wilder really bad; you wore that Little House on the Prairie inspired plaid, ruffled shirt with the high neck in at least one school picture; and you despised Nellie Oleson!

You wanted your first kiss to be at a roller rink! ---- yes it was!

PONG! ("video tennis" ) was the most remarkable futuristic game you've ever heard of!

Your hairstyle was described as having "wings" or "feathers" and you kept it "pretty" with the comb you kept in your back pocket. When you walked, the "wings" flapped up and down, looked like you were gonna "take off".

You know who Strawberry Shortcake is, as well as her friends, Blueberry Muffin and Huckleberry Pie.


You carried a Muppets lunch box to school and it was metal, not plastic. With the thermos inside some were glass inside and broke the first time you dropped them.

You and your girlfriends would fight over which of the Dukes of Hazzard was your boyfriend - Bo or Luke?

YOU had Star Wars action figures, too!

It was a big event in your household each year when the "Wizard of Oz" would come on TV. Your mom would break out the popcorn and sleeping bags!

You often asked your Magic-8 ball the question: "Who will I marry. Shaun Cassidy, Leif Garrett, or David Cassidy?"

You completely wore out your Grease, Saturday Night Fever, and Fame soundtrack record albums.

You tried to do lots of arts and crafts, like yarn and Popsicle-stick God's eyes, decoupage, or those weird potholders made on a plastic loom.

You made Shrinky-Dinks and put iron-on kittens on your t-shirts!

You used to tape record songs off the radio by holding your portable tape player up to the speaker.

You had subscriptions to Dynamite and Tiger Beat.

You learned everything you needed to know about girl issues from Judy Blume books. (Are you there God, It's me, Margaret.)














You thought Olivia Newton John's song "Physical" was about aerobics. (?? its not??)

You wore friendship pins on your tennis shoes, or shoelaces with heart or rainbow designs.





You wanted to be a Solid Gold dancer.

You drowned yourself in Love's Baby Soft - which was the first "real" perfume you ever owned.

You glopped your lips in Strawberry Roll-on lipgloss till it almost dripped off.

My personal notes - I had strap-on metal skates, not shoeskates (we wuz poor, I guess), I had a rainbow bike with that banana seat and basket, I think Muppet Movie was after my metal lunch box phase, probably had The Monkees, and my cousin had the Click/Clacks - we weren't allowed to try to hit ourselves in the head, but we sure liked hers when we were at her house :), We still own a slip 'n slide and kill ourselves in the summer too! And my girls now own ponchos, recently made a godseye and like to disco!

Canned Formula Possibly Harmful to Infants

Cnn.com is reporting that an environmental group says that the lining in the cans of infant formula contain the potentially harmful chemical bisphenol-A, or BPA. The problem is that the FDA hasn't put out any guidelines regarding the use of BPA in food products or other baby items, like baby bottles, although it admits to reviewing continuing research about the use of these chemicals in children's products.

The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit research organization focused on public health and the environment. It has previously raised alarms about these chemicals in baby bottles and sippy cups for the same reasons. The group says, based on its analysis of existing research on BPA, even a very small amount of the compound may cause a host of problems, from brain and behavioral disorders to cancer, a claim the formula makers and federal regulators adamantly deny.

BPA is a fairly ubiquitous chemical used in polycarbonate plastic products, including baby bottles and metal can coatings. It protects the food inside from the can. It's legal. According to the FDA and the infant formula industry, which adheres to federal packaging guidelines, it is safe.

In the article, formula maker Nestle USA says all U.S. formula companies use cans from suppliers who use bisphenol-A. "The FDA has found these materials to be safe, and to pose no risk whatsoever to consumers. We stand by our products in these type of cans as being safe," the company says.

The National Toxicology Program's Center for the Evaluation of Risks to Human Reproduction convened an expert panel to determine if BPA is a hazard to humans, including more sensitive developing babies. The panel concluded, based on animal studies, that there's "some risk" exposure to BPA causes neural and behavioral effects in children. But there's a clear lack of scientific consensus on the definition of "some risk." Also at issue is the lack of research on humans.

"There's a lot of data out there, a lot of science that is looking at the effect of BPA in animals, but we don't have any data unfortunately in humans, so it makes it a little bit hard to know what's worrisome and what's not, " says Dr. Ari Brown, a member of the Academy of Pediatrics and author of the book "Baby 411."

Some pediatricians are being conservative about products with these chemicals. One pediatrician tells CNN that parents should err on the side of caution, urging them to reduce or eliminate usage of questionable products. Why take a chance when you can easily change to other materials to feed your child. I have recently ditched all plastic sippy cups from our home, as well as the soft vinyl toys that are known to have BPA, as well as potential lead paint. It's too late for my 8 and 5 year old regarding formula, but it's something moms with infants should know about and consider.

There are choices, including powdered formula or liquid formula not packaged in cans, and BPA-free baby bottles. Another BPA-free choice for mothers who can do it is exclusive breastfeeding -- the gold standard of infant nutrition.