Wish letters 320-341: Family barely meets bills, needs help for Christmas
FROM STAFF REPORTS • NOVEMBER 18, 2009
Things are very busy at the Christmas Wish Distribution Center as volunteers work feverishly to fulfill the wishes of 400 applicants. The center would not exist without the help of local businesses. Special thanks is extended to those who have donated for the center:
M.C. White — building
Home Depot — shopping carts
Twin Lakes Gun Club — tables
Buford Volunteer Fire Department — chairs
NABORS Sanitation — trash bin
Kinetico — drinking water
Butler Furniture — used furniture
Bob Kromenaker — computer for the office.
The center is in need of the following donations for the women's department:
Panties, sizes 10 and larger
Bras, sized 40D and larger
Sleepwear, all sizes
Sweatshirts, small and extra large
Sweatpants, large and extra large.
A few more wishes have been adopted by area residents. They are wishes 189, 214 and 310.
Wish volunteers need more information from the following applicants. They should call the Wish Distribution Center at 488-0010 or Cathy Neider, director, at 404-4235.
Single mother who lives at 114 Mill Creek Lane in Norfork
Couple who received mail at HC 82, Box 412
Single mother living at 45 Morello Drive in Mountain Home
Here are the wishes of more applicants:
Wish 320— "My husband's hours got cut down, and he is the only one of us that is working," this mother writes. "We have three children and another one is due in March. We barely have the money to make it every month and to buy any extra toys the kids may want is hard. We would really appreciate the help." Boy, 4, wants SpongeBob bedding for twin-sized bed, age-appropriate toys, bike, helmet and pads and outside toys; girl, 2 1/2, wants Tinkerbell bedding for toddler-sized bed, bike, helmet, pads and age-appropriate toys; girl, 1, likes Care Bear bedding and toys, walking and riding toys that make noises and inside-light-up toys that make noise. All need pants, shirts, shoes socks and underwear. The youngest needs Huggies diapers, as she is allergic to other brands.
Wish 321 — "My husband is on disability, and we get that once a month. It all goes on bills and living expenses," this mother writes. Boy, 10 months, wants things that light up and make noise and a bouncy ball, and needs pants, shirts, socks, pajamas, shoes and bottles.
Wish 322— "We are living at Gamma House," a mother writes. "I don't have a job, and I have an 8-month-old baby that needs clothes. Girl, 8 months, likes music toys with lights, and needs shirts, pants and warm outfits.
Wish 323— Single mother of two just got laid off and also needs help with electric bill and rent. "I don't have a vehicle or any help with child support," she writes. Girl, 5, wants a dry-erase board and easel, puzzles, movies, dress-up clothes, sheets and bedspread for twin bed; and boy, 1, needs high chair, trucks, tractors and toys with lights and sounds. Both need pants, shirts, shoes and socks. The youngest needs size 5 diapers.
Wish 324 — "Our family of six with a stay-at-home mom lives week to week with my husband's full-time income paying almost all the bills. We have had an even harder time this year with more medical bills than usual with the birth of our newest blessing. Thank you and may God bless you." Boy, 11, wants LEGOs, wrist watch, Nerf gun, "Adventures in Odyssey" and Christian CDs; girl, 9, wants "The Search for Noah's Umbrella" DVD, "Pure NRG" Christian CD, books by Andrew Clemens and bomb Nerf gun; boy, 6 1/2, wants Over The Door Hot Wheels/Matchbox hanger, cat or dog Kid K'nex, bike and LEGOs; girl, 2 1/2 months, likes walk-behind toys, riding toys that she can push with her feet and age-appropriate toys. All need underwear, shoes, jeans, socks and warm clothes. The youngest need size 2 diapers.
Wish 325 — "My husband has been out of work since last November due to a back injury. As if that hasn't made it difficult enough with seven children, I was laid off from my job in May. Even with some outside help, it is a challenge to make the monthly bills," this mother writes. "I really would like for my children to have a decent holiday and would appreciate any and all help in making this happen." Girl, 17, wants DVDs, books and headphones; boy, 15, wants DVDs and music; girl, 14, wants DVDs and a bike; boy, 8, wants a bike, helmet and pads; girl, 7, wants Hannah Montana items, Hair Ponies, bike, helmet and pads; boy, 5, building blocks, LEGOs, bike, helmet, pads; girl, 4, wants a Barbie, Light Bright, bike, helmet, pads; all need jeans/pants, socks, shirts, shoes.
Wish 326 — "I'm a single parent of two children, and I'm on disability," a mother writes. "I can make my monthly bills, but things like Christmas and birthdays are really hard for me. I only make the minimum that you can get on disability. Without your help my children aren't going to have a very good Christmas this year. Any help would be very appreciated." Boy, 10, wants anything Star Wars and a bike; and girl, 8, wants anything High School Musical, bike and Hannah Montana. Both need pants, shirts.
Wish 327 — A single mom says this is the hardest year ever. "We had to sell our house due to lack of income. I receive no child support," she writes. "My daughter has had to have three surgeries in St. Louis and has two more coming up. I lost my job due to having to take care of my daughter's medical needs. Now have a new job and work as many hours as I can to keep bills and medical expenses paid. Any help would help put smile on my kids faces." Girl, 15, wants a bike, exercise ball and anything Bombers; and boy, 14, wants fishing stuff and camo for hunting. Both need pants, shirts and shoes/boots.
Wish 328 — "Because of several health problems (surgeries) this past year, we need some help. Also, we usually have some outside work of odds and ends, but not much this year," this grandmother writes. "The children look to us to help them in their needs. Throughout the school year, we try and help with this, snacks or book orders, which extra reading helps, I think. As grandparents we really need help this year." Girl, 9, loves horses, third-grade-level help books and a baby doll; and boy, 11, wants cars, trucks, games and age-appropriate toys. Both need jeans, shirts, coats, underwear and warm blankets.
Wish 329— Mother of three just filed for divorce from an abusive husband, and the family has not been able to stay in their own home for fear of what he might do. "My kids need a bright Christmas to give us hope," she writes. "To those who help and even those who don't, God bless you." Girl, 16, would like makeup, earrings, a flat-iron, brush set, perfume and any age-appropriate toy; boy, 11, wants trucks, fishing or hunting items, card games, a basketball and any age-appropriate toy; and boy, 8, likes cars, fishing or hunting items, games, Bakugans and a soccer ball. All need shirts, pants, socks and coats.
Wish 330 — Because parents have had their hours cut, the family is barely living check to check. The have fallen two months behind in utilities and rent just to put groceries on the table and gas in the vehicles to get to and from work. Mother doesn't think they will be able to give their boys "any sort of Christmas at all without the help of Christmas Wish." Boys, 6 and 5, love LEGOs, super heroes, Star Wars and art supplies. Both need jeans and shoes.
Wish 331 — Father is the only one working, and he's struggling to make ends meet. Mother feels bad about asking for help, but she needs some assistance in order to give her children a nice Christmas this year. "We are doing the best we can, and any gifts will be greatly appreciated. God bless you all," she writes. Boy, 6, would like a bike, Hot Wheel race set, Transformers and GI Joe; and girl, 4, wants a bike, Barbie doll house, toy baby swing or chair, dress-up clothes, Dora the Explorer and Hannah Montana. Both need shirts, pants, coats and shoes.
Wish 332 — Single mother of two was recently laid off work due to the poor economy and is struggling to make ends meet. She would be thankful for any help. Girl, 5, loves Hannah Montana, books, coloring books and educational toys, and needs pants, shirts, socks, coat, gloves, hats and underwear. Boy, 7 months, likes cars, toys with lights and sounds and educational toys. Both need pants, shirts, coats and socks. She needs gloves, hats and underwear; he needs pajamas.
Wish 333 — A single, unemployed mom has a limited income. She is working hard in school to complete her degree. "Last year Christmas Wish gave my children a very merry Christmas. Thank you," she writes. Girl, 11, wants a bike, books and Pet Shop animals, and needs pants; boy, 8, wants a skateboard and an army play set; girl, 7, wants Barbies, guitar and Mind Flex game; and girl, 17, wants a sewing machine, bike, books and CDs.
Wish 334 — This single mother is working only part time. Even though she receives some assistance with rent payment from her son's Supplemental Security Income, her take-home pay barely covers the bills. She is worried her children will not have a good Christmas. Boy, 8, likes Transformers, trains, LEGOs and Goosebumps books; and girl, 2 1/2, likes Care Bears, Strawberry Shortcake, baby dolls and age-appropriate books. Both need pants, socks, winter boots, winter shirts and underwear.
Wish 335 — Single mother of three receives a small amount of child support and has no family that can help with gifts for her children. Any assistance would be appreciated. Girl, 12 1/2, likes makeup, a mini trampoline, "Twilight" books and any age-appropriate toy, and needs tailored jeans, long-sleeved shirts, winter coat and winter boots. Girl, 10, likes Operation SpongeBob SquarePants Skill game, books and any age-appropriate toy, and needs jeans, long-sleeved shirts, winter boots and socks. Boy, 3, likes Play-Doh Magic Swirl, Ice Cream Shop and books; and needs jeans, socks, winter boots and long-sleeved shirts.
Wish 336 — The father of this family has congestive heart failure and is hospitalized. The mother is unemployed and looking for work. Her two children will not have a Christmas without help. Girl, 12, would like a "Twilight" DVD, Twilight-series books, board games and any age-appropriate toy; and boy, 3, likes monster trucks, race cars, remote-control cars and airplanes. Both need pants, shirts, underwear and socks.
Wish 337 — A single mother has one child with epilepsy, receives a small amount of child support and is drawing Supplemental Security Income. The two incomes do not cover any extras. Girl, 15, would like rock CDs and DVDs, books, board games and any age-appropriate item, and needs jeans and shirts.
Wish 338 — This single mother writes her son's Supplemental Security Income is their sole income. She drives him to a special school in Harrison every day, and after paying for the gas, there is not much money left for Christmas. "Any help with Christmas gifts would be great," she writes. Boy, 14, likes cars, trucks, handheld games and a queen-bed set, and needs jeans, shirts socks and shoes; and girl, 3, likes anything Tinkerbell and learning toys, and needs pants, shirts, socks, shoes and underwear.
Wish 339— A mother of a handicapped child and an older child cannot afford Christmas because her mother, who lived with her and shared expenses, recently died. Her mother always helped with the gifts, but now that she has passed, there is no money for Christmas. Boy, 16, would like an archery bow, weight set, boxing gloves and a mountain bike, and needs jeans, T-shirts, hunting boots and hunting clothing.
Wish 340 — Father is unemployed and looking for a construction job. The family only can afford the barest essentials. Even though these two young children don't understand the real meaning of Christmas yet, the mother wants them to be happy. "They are good kids," she writes. Girl, 6, would like a Barbie, baby doll, dress-up clothes and movies; and boy, 5, likes cars, Batman, Spiderman and movies. Both need socks, pants, shirts and jackets.
Wish 341 — Father is laid off due to the bad economy and is having a hard time making ends meet. Mom is a full-time student at Arkansas State University and will graduate in May. These parents need help with groceries and would like a little something to put under the tree for their daughter. Girl, 16, likes movies, hair clips for thick hair, 1,000-piece puzzles and art supplies; she needs sneakers, ankle socks, sweat pants and underwear.
Things are very busy at the Christmas Wish Distribution Center as volunteers work feverishly to fulfill the wishes of 400 applicants. The center would not exist without the help of local businesses. Special thanks is extended to those who have donated for the center:
M.C. White — building
Home Depot — shopping carts
Twin Lakes Gun Club — tables
Buford Volunteer Fire Department — chairs
NABORS Sanitation — trash bin
Kinetico — drinking water
Butler Furniture — used furniture
Bob Kromenaker — computer for the office.
The center is in need of the following donations for the women's department:
Panties, sizes 10 and larger
Bras, sized 40D and larger
Sleepwear, all sizes
Sweatshirts, small and extra large
Sweatpants, large and extra large.
A few more wishes have been adopted by area residents. They are wishes 189, 214 and 310.
Wish volunteers need more information from the following applicants. They should call the Wish Distribution Center at 488-0010 or Cathy Neider, director, at 404-4235.
Single mother who lives at 114 Mill Creek Lane in Norfork
Couple who received mail at HC 82, Box 412
Single mother living at 45 Morello Drive in Mountain Home
Here are the wishes of more applicants:
Wish 320— "My husband's hours got cut down, and he is the only one of us that is working," this mother writes. "We have three children and another one is due in March. We barely have the money to make it every month and to buy any extra toys the kids may want is hard. We would really appreciate the help." Boy, 4, wants SpongeBob bedding for twin-sized bed, age-appropriate toys, bike, helmet and pads and outside toys; girl, 2 1/2, wants Tinkerbell bedding for toddler-sized bed, bike, helmet, pads and age-appropriate toys; girl, 1, likes Care Bear bedding and toys, walking and riding toys that make noises and inside-light-up toys that make noise. All need pants, shirts, shoes socks and underwear. The youngest needs Huggies diapers, as she is allergic to other brands.
Wish 321 — "My husband is on disability, and we get that once a month. It all goes on bills and living expenses," this mother writes. Boy, 10 months, wants things that light up and make noise and a bouncy ball, and needs pants, shirts, socks, pajamas, shoes and bottles.
Wish 322— "We are living at Gamma House," a mother writes. "I don't have a job, and I have an 8-month-old baby that needs clothes. Girl, 8 months, likes music toys with lights, and needs shirts, pants and warm outfits.
Wish 323— Single mother of two just got laid off and also needs help with electric bill and rent. "I don't have a vehicle or any help with child support," she writes. Girl, 5, wants a dry-erase board and easel, puzzles, movies, dress-up clothes, sheets and bedspread for twin bed; and boy, 1, needs high chair, trucks, tractors and toys with lights and sounds. Both need pants, shirts, shoes and socks. The youngest needs size 5 diapers.
Wish 324 — "Our family of six with a stay-at-home mom lives week to week with my husband's full-time income paying almost all the bills. We have had an even harder time this year with more medical bills than usual with the birth of our newest blessing. Thank you and may God bless you." Boy, 11, wants LEGOs, wrist watch, Nerf gun, "Adventures in Odyssey" and Christian CDs; girl, 9, wants "The Search for Noah's Umbrella" DVD, "Pure NRG" Christian CD, books by Andrew Clemens and bomb Nerf gun; boy, 6 1/2, wants Over The Door Hot Wheels/Matchbox hanger, cat or dog Kid K'nex, bike and LEGOs; girl, 2 1/2 months, likes walk-behind toys, riding toys that she can push with her feet and age-appropriate toys. All need underwear, shoes, jeans, socks and warm clothes. The youngest need size 2 diapers.
Wish 325 — "My husband has been out of work since last November due to a back injury. As if that hasn't made it difficult enough with seven children, I was laid off from my job in May. Even with some outside help, it is a challenge to make the monthly bills," this mother writes. "I really would like for my children to have a decent holiday and would appreciate any and all help in making this happen." Girl, 17, wants DVDs, books and headphones; boy, 15, wants DVDs and music; girl, 14, wants DVDs and a bike; boy, 8, wants a bike, helmet and pads; girl, 7, wants Hannah Montana items, Hair Ponies, bike, helmet and pads; boy, 5, building blocks, LEGOs, bike, helmet, pads; girl, 4, wants a Barbie, Light Bright, bike, helmet, pads; all need jeans/pants, socks, shirts, shoes.
Wish 326 — "I'm a single parent of two children, and I'm on disability," a mother writes. "I can make my monthly bills, but things like Christmas and birthdays are really hard for me. I only make the minimum that you can get on disability. Without your help my children aren't going to have a very good Christmas this year. Any help would be very appreciated." Boy, 10, wants anything Star Wars and a bike; and girl, 8, wants anything High School Musical, bike and Hannah Montana. Both need pants, shirts.
Wish 327 — A single mom says this is the hardest year ever. "We had to sell our house due to lack of income. I receive no child support," she writes. "My daughter has had to have three surgeries in St. Louis and has two more coming up. I lost my job due to having to take care of my daughter's medical needs. Now have a new job and work as many hours as I can to keep bills and medical expenses paid. Any help would help put smile on my kids faces." Girl, 15, wants a bike, exercise ball and anything Bombers; and boy, 14, wants fishing stuff and camo for hunting. Both need pants, shirts and shoes/boots.
Wish 328 — "Because of several health problems (surgeries) this past year, we need some help. Also, we usually have some outside work of odds and ends, but not much this year," this grandmother writes. "The children look to us to help them in their needs. Throughout the school year, we try and help with this, snacks or book orders, which extra reading helps, I think. As grandparents we really need help this year." Girl, 9, loves horses, third-grade-level help books and a baby doll; and boy, 11, wants cars, trucks, games and age-appropriate toys. Both need jeans, shirts, coats, underwear and warm blankets.
Wish 329— Mother of three just filed for divorce from an abusive husband, and the family has not been able to stay in their own home for fear of what he might do. "My kids need a bright Christmas to give us hope," she writes. "To those who help and even those who don't, God bless you." Girl, 16, would like makeup, earrings, a flat-iron, brush set, perfume and any age-appropriate toy; boy, 11, wants trucks, fishing or hunting items, card games, a basketball and any age-appropriate toy; and boy, 8, likes cars, fishing or hunting items, games, Bakugans and a soccer ball. All need shirts, pants, socks and coats.
Wish 330 — Because parents have had their hours cut, the family is barely living check to check. The have fallen two months behind in utilities and rent just to put groceries on the table and gas in the vehicles to get to and from work. Mother doesn't think they will be able to give their boys "any sort of Christmas at all without the help of Christmas Wish." Boys, 6 and 5, love LEGOs, super heroes, Star Wars and art supplies. Both need jeans and shoes.
Wish 331 — Father is the only one working, and he's struggling to make ends meet. Mother feels bad about asking for help, but she needs some assistance in order to give her children a nice Christmas this year. "We are doing the best we can, and any gifts will be greatly appreciated. God bless you all," she writes. Boy, 6, would like a bike, Hot Wheel race set, Transformers and GI Joe; and girl, 4, wants a bike, Barbie doll house, toy baby swing or chair, dress-up clothes, Dora the Explorer and Hannah Montana. Both need shirts, pants, coats and shoes.
Wish 332 — Single mother of two was recently laid off work due to the poor economy and is struggling to make ends meet. She would be thankful for any help. Girl, 5, loves Hannah Montana, books, coloring books and educational toys, and needs pants, shirts, socks, coat, gloves, hats and underwear. Boy, 7 months, likes cars, toys with lights and sounds and educational toys. Both need pants, shirts, coats and socks. She needs gloves, hats and underwear; he needs pajamas.
Wish 333 — A single, unemployed mom has a limited income. She is working hard in school to complete her degree. "Last year Christmas Wish gave my children a very merry Christmas. Thank you," she writes. Girl, 11, wants a bike, books and Pet Shop animals, and needs pants; boy, 8, wants a skateboard and an army play set; girl, 7, wants Barbies, guitar and Mind Flex game; and girl, 17, wants a sewing machine, bike, books and CDs.
Wish 334 — This single mother is working only part time. Even though she receives some assistance with rent payment from her son's Supplemental Security Income, her take-home pay barely covers the bills. She is worried her children will not have a good Christmas. Boy, 8, likes Transformers, trains, LEGOs and Goosebumps books; and girl, 2 1/2, likes Care Bears, Strawberry Shortcake, baby dolls and age-appropriate books. Both need pants, socks, winter boots, winter shirts and underwear.
Wish 335 — Single mother of three receives a small amount of child support and has no family that can help with gifts for her children. Any assistance would be appreciated. Girl, 12 1/2, likes makeup, a mini trampoline, "Twilight" books and any age-appropriate toy, and needs tailored jeans, long-sleeved shirts, winter coat and winter boots. Girl, 10, likes Operation SpongeBob SquarePants Skill game, books and any age-appropriate toy, and needs jeans, long-sleeved shirts, winter boots and socks. Boy, 3, likes Play-Doh Magic Swirl, Ice Cream Shop and books; and needs jeans, socks, winter boots and long-sleeved shirts.
Wish 336 — The father of this family has congestive heart failure and is hospitalized. The mother is unemployed and looking for work. Her two children will not have a Christmas without help. Girl, 12, would like a "Twilight" DVD, Twilight-series books, board games and any age-appropriate toy; and boy, 3, likes monster trucks, race cars, remote-control cars and airplanes. Both need pants, shirts, underwear and socks.
Wish 337 — A single mother has one child with epilepsy, receives a small amount of child support and is drawing Supplemental Security Income. The two incomes do not cover any extras. Girl, 15, would like rock CDs and DVDs, books, board games and any age-appropriate item, and needs jeans and shirts.
Wish 338 — This single mother writes her son's Supplemental Security Income is their sole income. She drives him to a special school in Harrison every day, and after paying for the gas, there is not much money left for Christmas. "Any help with Christmas gifts would be great," she writes. Boy, 14, likes cars, trucks, handheld games and a queen-bed set, and needs jeans, shirts socks and shoes; and girl, 3, likes anything Tinkerbell and learning toys, and needs pants, shirts, socks, shoes and underwear.
Wish 339— A mother of a handicapped child and an older child cannot afford Christmas because her mother, who lived with her and shared expenses, recently died. Her mother always helped with the gifts, but now that she has passed, there is no money for Christmas. Boy, 16, would like an archery bow, weight set, boxing gloves and a mountain bike, and needs jeans, T-shirts, hunting boots and hunting clothing.
Wish 340 — Father is unemployed and looking for a construction job. The family only can afford the barest essentials. Even though these two young children don't understand the real meaning of Christmas yet, the mother wants them to be happy. "They are good kids," she writes. Girl, 6, would like a Barbie, baby doll, dress-up clothes and movies; and boy, 5, likes cars, Batman, Spiderman and movies. Both need socks, pants, shirts and jackets.
Wish 341 — Father is laid off due to the bad economy and is having a hard time making ends meet. Mom is a full-time student at Arkansas State University and will graduate in May. These parents need help with groceries and would like a little something to put under the tree for their daughter. Girl, 16, likes movies, hair clips for thick hair, 1,000-piece puzzles and art supplies; she needs sneakers, ankle socks, sweat pants and underwear.
Greenhouse releases Barbie-like camcorders for women
There’s a strong argument to be made that consumer technology is inherently chauvinistic, and — paradoxically — no where does this already strong argument seem more irrefutable than in the realm of gadgets marketed to women.
Whenever a gadget aimed at a girl is released, it is invariably the same: a stock, low-end gadget slathered in gold, pearl and pink. It’s as if the engineers of gadget companies have such a retarded sense of modern femininity that they can’t even imagine a woman’s gadget as anything deeper and more significant than an expensive accessory for a Barbie doll.
Japanese electronics maker Greenhouse’s latest camcorder keeps pace with that despicable trend. The newly announced GHV-DV30HDLXW/P (say that five times fast) is a video camera specifically designed for women. How can you tell? It comes in white and pink, ships with a faux leather case, and all the buttons have been spray painted gold.
Greenhouse partnered with fashion brand GAUDI to design the camera, which features a 3-inch TFT LCD screen, 128MB of internal memory (what?), an SD/SDHC memory card slot supporting up to 32GB cards, a mini HDMI port and a USB interface. It records in 1,280 x 720 resolution at 30 frames per second in MPEG-4 and H.264 MOV format.
Not much of a camera, but if you have a Betty Draper in your life, you might be interested. It can only be purchased in Japan right now, but you might have luck importing Greenhouse’s new camera. It’ll cost you $190.
Whenever a gadget aimed at a girl is released, it is invariably the same: a stock, low-end gadget slathered in gold, pearl and pink. It’s as if the engineers of gadget companies have such a retarded sense of modern femininity that they can’t even imagine a woman’s gadget as anything deeper and more significant than an expensive accessory for a Barbie doll.
Japanese electronics maker Greenhouse’s latest camcorder keeps pace with that despicable trend. The newly announced GHV-DV30HDLXW/P (say that five times fast) is a video camera specifically designed for women. How can you tell? It comes in white and pink, ships with a faux leather case, and all the buttons have been spray painted gold.
Greenhouse partnered with fashion brand GAUDI to design the camera, which features a 3-inch TFT LCD screen, 128MB of internal memory (what?), an SD/SDHC memory card slot supporting up to 32GB cards, a mini HDMI port and a USB interface. It records in 1,280 x 720 resolution at 30 frames per second in MPEG-4 and H.264 MOV format.
Not much of a camera, but if you have a Betty Draper in your life, you might be interested. It can only be purchased in Japan right now, but you might have luck importing Greenhouse’s new camera. It’ll cost you $190.
Kewpie Doll
Originally in unglazed bisque these large eyed baby-face dolls, most less than 3" tall, were in a variety of poses, sitting up, crawling, lying on their tummies or on their backs. Most were rigid but some rare Kewpie dolls have jointed arms. The typically naked little cherubs have some rarer painted-on clothes versions bringing high value on the collector market. The signature sign of an original bisque Kewpie is the miniature painted wings tucked up behind their neck and for the most part painted with blue tips. Many Kewpie dolls were unmarked and produced primarily in Germany and France, but also in the US and Japan.
The collector value is higher for those early versions, marked and unmarked, and in different poses or attire. Value ranges from $40 - 60 up to $700 and higher for a rare find. A Rose O'Neill's signature mark, O'Neill, on the base of the foot, star shaped hands or heart-shaped or circular labels is a great find. One of the rarer O'Neill's is a German Kewpie soldier doll, with moulded clothing complete with a helmet and a gun valued in the $400 range. Also in the 1920's unmarked Kewpie-style bisque bride and groom pairs for wedding cake toppers were popular and often value over the $100 mark.
By the 1930's a celluloid version created a toy-like dolly Kewpie more for play than display and in 1949 these cupid-like dolls were available in hard plastic in many sizes and clothing outfits, by many makers, and fast became a best-loved toy for young girls everywhere. A consumer-mania took over as these dolls, said to be one of the first toys based on a cartoon character, and consequently showed up in advertising and even song lyrics over the ages. Remaining as popular still today, especially in Japan where these sweet charms rival the Hello Kitty marketing mania.
The collector value is higher for those early versions, marked and unmarked, and in different poses or attire. Value ranges from $40 - 60 up to $700 and higher for a rare find. A Rose O'Neill's signature mark, O'Neill, on the base of the foot, star shaped hands or heart-shaped or circular labels is a great find. One of the rarer O'Neill's is a German Kewpie soldier doll, with moulded clothing complete with a helmet and a gun valued in the $400 range. Also in the 1920's unmarked Kewpie-style bisque bride and groom pairs for wedding cake toppers were popular and often value over the $100 mark.
By the 1930's a celluloid version created a toy-like dolly Kewpie more for play than display and in 1949 these cupid-like dolls were available in hard plastic in many sizes and clothing outfits, by many makers, and fast became a best-loved toy for young girls everywhere. A consumer-mania took over as these dolls, said to be one of the first toys based on a cartoon character, and consequently showed up in advertising and even song lyrics over the ages. Remaining as popular still today, especially in Japan where these sweet charms rival the Hello Kitty marketing mania.
Chucky Doll
Let's look at past history, shall we. Chucky has been beaten, stabbed, bludgeoned, shot, lit on fire, launched through the windshield of a car, dismembered, doused in hot liquid plastic and unceremoniously dumped in various garbage cans, only to survive and keep on the attack. He has risen from the dead thrice, managed to survive rabid parents during the shopping season and tolerated marriage to the most psychotic woman/ nag machine this side of the planet. He takes a licking and keeps on ticking! What exactly are the Toy Story bunch going to be able to do to to stop Chucky? Is Buzz going to shoot him with his laser until his batteries run out? Whoop-de-doo!
When it just looks about hopeless, things can only get worse for this motley crew of plastic. Through four movies, Chucky has chalked up a double digit body count despite being all but knee high to most of his victims. If you thought he was a terror in minature, wait until he gets to use his height advantage on these puny toys. I collected action figures and trust me, Snake Eyes and Major Bludd don't last very long when you step on them. Or throw them out the window. Or flush them down the toilet. Or hit them with an aluminum bat. Or shoot them. Or any of the other cool things that I, er, Chucky will do to them. It ain't gonna be pretty.
Not that it really matters. Cheap plastic crap from Taiwan just doesn't measure up to a doll like Chucky, a product of good ole USA. Whether it is toys or serial killers, you can trust America to produce the best. The Toy Story bunch will fall like a house of cards. I predict a very unmerry Christmas this year.
When it just looks about hopeless, things can only get worse for this motley crew of plastic. Through four movies, Chucky has chalked up a double digit body count despite being all but knee high to most of his victims. If you thought he was a terror in minature, wait until he gets to use his height advantage on these puny toys. I collected action figures and trust me, Snake Eyes and Major Bludd don't last very long when you step on them. Or throw them out the window. Or flush them down the toilet. Or hit them with an aluminum bat. Or shoot them. Or any of the other cool things that I, er, Chucky will do to them. It ain't gonna be pretty.
Not that it really matters. Cheap plastic crap from Taiwan just doesn't measure up to a doll like Chucky, a product of good ole USA. Whether it is toys or serial killers, you can trust America to produce the best. The Toy Story bunch will fall like a house of cards. I predict a very unmerry Christmas this year.
Baby Doll
What Is a Babydoll?
A babydoll is a very short, loose fitting negligee. It is typically sleeveless, but may have very short "cap" sleeves. Within this category, there are endless variations. A babydoll may or may not cover the buttocks. It may feature defined bra cups or hang loosely. Fabric choices range from silk or satin to lace or sheer fabrics.
Understanding Sizes
Due to loose fitting nature of baby doll lingerie, it is easy to determine what size to buy. Babydolls are generally sized the same way as dresses (6, 8, 10 etc). Buy a babydoll in the same size as the dresses your partner wears.
Some baby doll lingerie is "one size fits all." It would be better to consider that one size fits most. If your partner is particularly small or large, it is best to choose baby doll lingerie in her actual size.
Plus Size Women
Sexy lingerie makes many full figured women uncomfortable. If your partner has concerns about her size, baby doll lingerie is the perfect first step. Demonstrate that you respect her feelings (even if you don't understand them) by choosing the babydoll carefully. Look for a piece that covers the areas that make her uncomfortable while drawing attention to her best assets.
On the Wild Side
If your partner is confident and enjoys wearing sexy lingerie, consider more risqué babydoll styles. A barely-there fishnet or lace babydoll is sure to spice things up. Or consider an ultra-sheer babydoll in black, red or even white. Some styles are designed to expose and highlight your partner's body rather than providing coverage.
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A babydoll is a very short, loose fitting negligee. It is typically sleeveless, but may have very short "cap" sleeves. Within this category, there are endless variations. A babydoll may or may not cover the buttocks. It may feature defined bra cups or hang loosely. Fabric choices range from silk or satin to lace or sheer fabrics.
Understanding Sizes
Due to loose fitting nature of baby doll lingerie, it is easy to determine what size to buy. Babydolls are generally sized the same way as dresses (6, 8, 10 etc). Buy a babydoll in the same size as the dresses your partner wears.
Some baby doll lingerie is "one size fits all." It would be better to consider that one size fits most. If your partner is particularly small or large, it is best to choose baby doll lingerie in her actual size.
Plus Size Women
Sexy lingerie makes many full figured women uncomfortable. If your partner has concerns about her size, baby doll lingerie is the perfect first step. Demonstrate that you respect her feelings (even if you don't understand them) by choosing the babydoll carefully. Look for a piece that covers the areas that make her uncomfortable while drawing attention to her best assets.
On the Wild Side
If your partner is confident and enjoys wearing sexy lingerie, consider more risqué babydoll styles. A barely-there fishnet or lace babydoll is sure to spice things up. Or consider an ultra-sheer babydoll in black, red or even white. Some styles are designed to expose and highlight your partner's body rather than providing coverage.
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The Ugly Dolls
The Ugly Dolls showed up ready to throw down on the playground! I've been a huge fan of Ugly Dolls since I first saw one on a coworker's desk several years ago. I immediately wanted to snatch it up and take off running out of the building, but instead I just ended up making a sad face and asking if he would please part with him. Sadly the puppy dog face didn't work and up till now I've never owned one myself, though when I decided that Connor was defently having a birthday party online I knew I HAD to invite them! Something about their soft fleece almost pillow like bodies and the whole pound dog look they have going for them is heartwarming. With those big eyes you just wanna take them all home.
Ugly Dolls come in an array of great products including stationary, a card game, books and even clip ons.. but I think there is just something you can't touch with the plush Ugly Dolls, its immediately comforting to hug one!
Personally I am a huge fan of Big Toe, he's blue for one and a bit on the chubby side but he is always looking out for his other Ugly Doll friends. He's Connor's favorite as well and I am sure Big Toe will be looking after my little man for years to come.
Visiting the Ugly Doll web page is similar to entering your own little cartoon world. Super interactive there is lots to see and do, and a surprise with every click. If you have a few minutes its totally worth it just to visit them and wander around for a few minutes.
Ugly Dolls has been so generous that they donated several Ugly Dolls to give away. For this giveaway we are offering one
Ugly Dolls come in an array of great products including stationary, a card game, books and even clip ons.. but I think there is just something you can't touch with the plush Ugly Dolls, its immediately comforting to hug one!
Personally I am a huge fan of Big Toe, he's blue for one and a bit on the chubby side but he is always looking out for his other Ugly Doll friends. He's Connor's favorite as well and I am sure Big Toe will be looking after my little man for years to come.
Visiting the Ugly Doll web page is similar to entering your own little cartoon world. Super interactive there is lots to see and do, and a surprise with every click. If you have a few minutes its totally worth it just to visit them and wander around for a few minutes.
Ugly Dolls has been so generous that they donated several Ugly Dolls to give away. For this giveaway we are offering one
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