star doll | barbie

Life Size Berbie

2011-05-31T00:35:00.000-07:00

Her eyes are too big for her face, her neck is too long to hold up her head, she’s so thin that researchers say she would unable to conceive a child in real life…but is that any reason to vilify the Barbie doll, that darling of kids and collectors?

Galia Slayen seems to think so. In a laudable effort to call attention to anorexia, which the young woman from Oregon battled in high school, she created a papier mâché effigy of a Barbie doll and appeared with it on NBC’s “Today” show on April 18.

Ms. Slayen, with her long blond hair and blue eyes, bears more than a passing resemblance to a Barbie doll herself. Apparently, therein lay the problem. Ms. Slayen identified so closely with her beloved Barbie dolls, she told Today, that she “figured that was what I was supposed to look like” and fell down the slippery slope of an eating disorder.

While not blaming Barbie for her anorexia, Slayen calls the idealized plastic icon an “environmental factor.” Indeed, along with fashion magazines, movies, and television advertisements. There’s really no relief in modern culture from the bombardment of unattainable female beauty images. SOUND OFF: Is 'Barbie' a positive symbol for young girls or the glorification of a fashion and beauty culture gone mad?

Scaled up to life-size, a Barbie doll would be approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall and have a 36-inch bust, an 18-inch waist and 33-inch hips. Those are pretty unrealistic proportions, to be sure. Still, that’s healthier looking than Slayen’s bizarre creation, with its handless, attenuated sticks for arms, balloon-like breasts and head that appears too small for its body.

It's Barbie in a burkha: World-famous doll gets a makeover to go under the hammer for 50th anniversary

2010-01-29T19:33:00.000-08:00

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Last updated at 11:24 AM on 21st November 2009

One of the world's most famous children's toys, Barbie, has been given a makeover - wearing a burkha.

Wearing the traditional Islamic dress, the iconic doll is going undercover for a charity auction in connection with Sotheby's for Save The Children.

More than 500 Barbies went on show yesterday at the Salone dei Cinquecento, in Florence, Italy.

Burkha Barbie: The iconic doll wearing traditional Islamic dress

Makers Mattel are backing the exhibition which is the work of Italian designer Eliana Lorena.

The auction is part of Barbie celebrations for her 50th anniversary this year. The UK's biggest Barbie fan Angela Ellis, 35, has a collection of more than 250 dolls.

More...

The company director of Laird Assessors from The Wirral, Cheshire, said: 'Bring it on Burkha Barbie, I think this is a great idea.

'I think this is really important for girls, wherever they are from they should have the opportunity to play with a Barbie that they feel represents them.

Designer: Eliana Lorena is putting Barbie undercover for an auction to celebrate the doll's 50th anniversary

'I know Barbie was something seen as bad before as an image for girls, but in actual fact the message with Barbie for women is you can be whatever you want to be.

'I have a Barbie in a wheelchair that was only out for six weeks.'

The mum-of-two's own Barbie collection is set to be displayed at London's Victoria and Albert Museum in 2012.

Barbie was first launched in March 1959 by American businesswoman Ruth Handler. The doll was joined by her long-term boyfriend Ken in 1961.

Rosie Shannon, from Save the Children, said all the proceeds from the auction will go to the charity.

She said: 'We are delighted Sotheby's and the designer chose to auction the burka Barbie dolls for our charity.'

The money will go towards the Rewrite the Future campaign which helps millions of children around the world effected by conflict.

Classic toys from ballyhootoys

2010-01-25T09:28:00.000-08:00

Who doesn’t remember their toys from their childhood days and think “what a classic that is?” however, some toys really have gone on to stand the test of time to become real classics that are still played with and loved today.

Most of us easily identify with classic toys which have around for generations. In recent years some classic toys which have made a comeback or not gone out of fashion include the Slinky ,Mr Potato head, Barbie and more and are all still immensely popular.

A classic toy is one that is simple to enjoy, has lots of play value and has been tested over the years. They have a long lasting appeal that has brought delight to many generations.

Some examples of classic toys include:

• Building blocks, a great way for a child to build something just using their imagination, while at the same time improving their finger strength and movement and also their hand-eye coordination.

• Dolls – a girl’s favourite toy! These have been around since the beginning of human civilization, first being made out of stone, clay and wood to nowadays being made out of china, rubber and plastic

• Puzzles- helping to aid a child’s brain and bringing a smile to their face when they complete it!

• Railway sets that provide a environment that grows with the child’s physical ability to connect larger and more complicated track layouts.

• Board games- there are so many out now, but they all teach children to follow rules, take turns and play fairly.

• Rocking Horses-The rocking motion naturally soothes children and also helps their development of balance and vision.

• Puppets- Puppets are one of the most open ended and creative toys available. They offer the comfort and fun of a stuffed animal or doll with the ability to interact and manipulate in many ways

Qualities of a classic toy include:

• Durability

• Consistency

• Creativity

The joy of playing with your child with a toy that you once played with when you were younger is a special treat for both you and your child. The memories that are created by playing with classic toys will last with you for a lifetime.

2010-01-15T02:30:00.000-08:00

Barbie is a fashion doll manufactured by the American toy-company Mattel, Inc. and launched in March 1959. American businesswoman Ruth Handler (1916-2002) is credited with the creation of the doll using a German doll called Bild Lilli as her inspiration.

Barbie has been an important part of the toy fashion doll market for fifty years, and has been the subject of numerous controversies andlawsuits, often involving parody of the doll and her lifestyle. In recent years, Barbie has faced increasing competition from the Bratz range of dolls.

History

The original Barbie was launched in March 1959

Ruth Handler watched her daughter Barbara at play with paper dolls, and noticed that she often enjoyed giving them adult roles. At the time, most children's toy dolls were representations of infants. Realizing that there could be a gap in the market, Handler suggested the idea of an adult-bodied doll to her husband Elliot, a co-founder of the Mattel toy company. He was unenthusiastic about the idea, as were Mattel's directors.

During a trip to Europe in 1956 with her children Barbara and Kenneth, Ruth Handler came across German toy doll called Bild Lilli.^[1] The adult-figured doll was exactly what Handler had in mind, so she purchased three of them. She gave one to her daughter and took the others back to Mattel. The Lilli doll was based on a popular character appearing in a comic strip drawn by Reinhard Beuthin for the newspaper Die Bild-Zeitung. Lilli was a working girl who knew what she wanted and was not above using men to get it. The Lilli doll was first sold in Germany in 1955, and although it was initially sold to adults, it became popular with children who enjoyed dressing her up in outfits that were available separately.

Upon her return to the United States, Handler reworked the design of the doll (with help from engineer Jack Ryan) and the doll was given a new name, Barbie, after Handler's daughter Barbara. The doll made its debut at the American International Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959. This date is also used as Barbie's official birthday.

Mattel acquired the rights to the Bild Lilli doll in 1964 and production of Lilli was stopped. The first Barbie doll wore a black and white zebra striped swimsuit and signature topknot ponytail, and was available as either a blonde or brunette. The doll was marketed as a "Teen-age Fashion Model," with her clothes created by Mattel fashion designer Charlotte Johnson. The first Barbie dolls were manufactured in Japan, with their clothes hand-stitched by Japanese homeworkers. Around 350,000 Barbie dolls were sold during the first year of production.

Ruth Handler believed that it was important for Barbie to have an adult appearance, and early market research showed that some parents were unhappy about the doll's chest, which had distinct breasts. Barbie's appearance has been changed many times, most notably in 1971 when the doll's eyes were adjusted to look forwards rather than having the demure sideways glance of the original model.

Barbie was one of the first toys to have a marketing strategy based extensively on television advertising, which has been copied widely by other toys. It is estimated that over a billion Barbie dolls have been sold worldwide in over 150 countries, with Mattel claiming that three Barbie dolls are sold every second.^[2]

The standard range of Barbie dolls and related accessories are manufactured to approximately 1/6th scale, which is also known as playscale.^[3] Barbie products include not only the range of dolls with their clothes and accessories, but also a large range of Barbie branded goods such as books, fashion items and video games. Barbie has appeared in a series of animated films and made a brief guest appearance in the 1999 film Toy Story 2.

Barbie has become a cultural icon and has been given honors that are rare in the toy world. In 1974 a section of Times Square in New York City was renamed Barbie Boulevard for a week, In 1985 the artist Andy Warhol created a painting of Barbie.^[4]^[5]

Playmates Toys Partners With Bravado on New Line of Collectible Memorabilia to Feature King of Pop, Michael Jackson

2010-01-05T17:39:00.000-08:00

Press Release Source: Playmates Toys On Monday January 4, 2010, 2:55 pm EST

COSTA MESA, CA--(Marketwire - 01/04/10) - Bravado, the world's leading global music merchandising company, has completed an agreement with Playmates Toys whereby they will create a signature line of figures and dolls for the most successful entertainer of all time, Michael Jackson.

"We are delighted to expand our successful line of Michael Jackson collectible memorabilia by working with Lou and his innovative team at Playmates Toys," stated Tom Bennett, Chief Executive Officer of Bravado. "This new line truly celebrates Michael's unmistakable style and irreplaceable talent. Bringing in Playmates as a licensee only further cements Michael's retail visibility and helps commemorate and preserve the legacy that is Michael Jackson."

"Michael Jackson as a global icon leaves a legacy in music, dance and fashion that remains unrivaled," added Lou Novak, President of Playmates Toys. "We will honor his talent and his art expression by delivering a spectacular, highly detailed product line to inspire fans, collectors and new found enthusiasts."

Michael's incomparable style comes to life as Playmates rolls out an authentic collection replicating iconic images with cool "Michael" dance poses, music and embellished fashions. First wave will launch in 2010.

About Playmates Toys

For over 40 years, Playmates Toys is among the most well respected and innovative marketing and distribution companies in the global toy industry with a proven history in the creation of innovative and imaginative products as well as the development and management of profitable, long-term brand franchises. Key brands include TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES, STAR TREK, SIMPSONS, KING KONG, TOMB RAIDERS, DICK TRACY, EXOSQUAD, NANO PALS, iCARLY, DISNEY PRINCESS, DISNEY FAIRIES, BABY SO BEAUTIFUL, WATERBABIES and the AMAZING family of intelligent dolls. From its offices in Hong Kong and California, Playmates designs, develops, markets and distributes its products in over 60 countries worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.playmatestoys.com Playmates Toys Inc. (HongKong:0869 - News)

About Bravado

Bravado, the only global, 360� full service merchandise company, develops and markets high-quality licensed merchandise to a world-wide audience. The company works closely with new & established entertainment clients, creating innovative products carefully tailored to each artist or brand. Product is sold on live tours, via selected retail outlets and through web-based stores. Bravado also licenses rights to an extensive network of third party licensees around the world. The company maintains offices in London, Los Angeles, New York, Berlin, Paris, Tokyo and Sydney. In addition to Michael Jackson, Bravado artists include The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Kanye West, Beyonce, No Doubt, Nickelback, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Elton John, Guns 'N Roses, Metallica, Led Zeppelin, Green Day and The Killers, among many others.

Santa Doll

2009-12-22T06:51:00.000-08:00

Santa Doll is coming to Town Every Christmas season, a traditional bringer of gifts to children who slips down chimneys to leave gifts for all good children and then quickly drives away in his sleigh is now available to be seen, to be touched, and to be enjoyed with. There are no more worries for children during Christmas because Santa Claus replicates himself into a stuff that children love to and maybe you too, and that is Santa doll! Santa doll is a big part of the winter festivities. This yarn doll design adds to your indoor decorations around the tree, on your table, in a sleigh or around the stockings. It is a merry, rotund, little elf with the snow-white beard, clad in a bright red suit and a cap trimmed with ermine that really looks like the real Santa Claus.

There are certain sizes preferred in every Santa doll and different kinds of it. There is a doll that is dressed up like a pope, rock star, kimono, and etc. There are also different angles which it portrays, different positions, and also different kind of Santa doll either it is mechanical, electrically built or the typical type of a doll. Children can even play with these original dolls, they can help decorate them or give them away as gifts. It is created so that the children will enjoy it and can feel that there is actually a Santa.

The reason why children enjoy it because of its physical features. These features are its size, genre, wonderful colours, and all it makes that a child loved to. An individual will surely enjoy when you see a fat doll that is posing, moving, singing, and even talking to you. Basically, it is a cute appearance of the real Santa. Unlike any dolls, Santa doll has high demand when Christmas season is coming. Having it also completes the set of decoration they have. All of it adds beauty and it entertain every person who looked at it. I can say that it can serve as a good dwarf watching our home to bring prosperity and love in every edges of our house. Santa doll is now available at stores but if you want to make your own, some tips is required in creating this stuff but make sure that you have the materials to be used. Like other dolls, the method of creating it is almost the same. I am sure that everyone would love to have their own versions of it. Different versions but the same images and that's the image of Christmas. But before you deal with it, make sure that you will enjoy in creating it. Think twice and not once, for Christmas will be merrier if Santa doll is hanged up.

Xmas reprieve for Barbie

2009-12-09T19:08:00.000-08:00

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:02

Cezanne Visser, also known as 'Advocate Barbie', will spend Christmas at home and will only hear next year if she is to be sent to jail for sexually abusing young girls and women.

Acting judge Chris Eksteen on Tuesday postponed Visser's sentencing to 8 February next year at the request of senior advocate Johann Engelbrecht.

The judge warned he would not allow any further delays as Visser had already been convicted three months ago.

Visser was in October this year convicted on 11 of the 14 sex related charges against her.

Judge Eksteen rejected her claims that she had been a hapless pawn of her former boyfriend Dirk Prinsloo.

He said she was a willing partner in the sexual abuse of three young girls from a children's home and three young women.

Visser was convicted of defrauding a children's home by pretending she was married in order to convince them to let children spend time with her and Prinsloo.

She was further found guilty on three charges of soliciting a 15-year-old girl to commit indecent acts and indecently assaulting an 11-year-old and a 14-year-old girl.

The judge also convicted her of being a beneficiary to the indecent assault of a 20-year-old woman and indecently assaulting two other young women as well as the possession and manufacturing of child porn.

The judge found Visser had willingly associated herself and actively participated in the depraved sexual activities at her former lover Prinsloo's house.

She had taken the initiative to approach children's homes to get young girls for the purpose of sexual abuse. Her actions were consistently aimed at the sexual abuse of children and women solely for the gratification of her and Prinsloo's sexual needs, the judge said at the time.

Prinsloo, who disappeared while on a business trip to Russia several years ago, will probably only be extradited to South Africa after being tried in Belarus for allegedly attempting to rob a bank in that country.

Wish letters 320-341: Family barely meets bills, needs help for Christmas

2009-11-18T20:13:00.000-08:00

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.

Greenhouse releases Barbie-like camcorders for women

2009-11-12T18:14:00.000-08:00

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.

Kewpie Doll

2009-08-04T19:52:00.000-07:00

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.

Chucky Doll

2009-03-23T22:02:00.000-07:00

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.

Baby Doll

2009-01-29T18:02:00.000-08:00

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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The Ugly Dolls

2008-11-30T02:03:00.000-08:00

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

Star Doll

2008-07-12T20:35:00.000-07:00

Stardoll's original name was Paperdollheaven.com, and started out as the hobby of the Scandinavian-born Liisa. Inspired by a childhood passion for paperdolls, Liisa started drawing dolls and accompanying wardrobes and taught herself web design. Her personal homepage rapidly became a popular destination for teens. In 2004, with the help of her son, she upgraded the site and called it Paperdoll Heaven. "Most online sites are focused on violence and competitiveness", says Liisa. "I wanted to create a positive online environment for young girls who are creative and interested in fashion. They are looking for alternatives to shoot 'em up and kill 'em up games." Liisa is still an important part of the Stardoll family and she makes new paper dolls every week which you can find its, your paper doll heaven!

A doll is a child's toy that represents a baby or other human being, but includes likenesses of animals and imaginary creatures. Dolls have been around since the dawn of human civilization, and have been fashioned from a vast array of materials, ranging from stone, clay, wood, bone, cloth and paper, to porcelain, china, rubber and plastic.

While dolls have traditionally been toys for children, they are also collected by adults, for their nostalgic value, beauty, historical importance or financial value. In ancient times, dolls were used as representations of a deity, and played a central role in religious ceremonies and rituals. Lifelike or anatomically correct dolls are used by health professionals, medical schools and social workers to train doctors and nurses in various health procedures or investigate cases of sexual abuse of children. Artists sometimes use jointed wooden mannequins in drawing the human figure. Action figures representing superheroes and their predecessors, action dolls , are particularly popular among boys. Baby dolls, paper dolls, talking dolls, fashion dolls - the list is almost endless.