Collecting Dolls And Why It's So Popular

Doll collecting is a hobby that is widely misunderstood by many people. One may assume that doll collectors are just old ladies with nothing else better to do. They picture bizarre looking dolls with plastic bodies, and old crocheted hand made clothing smelling of moth balls, that are tucked neatly away into old stale closets. Also, many people just presume that only young girls are fascinated with such a hobby. These are common erroneous beliefs, and may not be entirely false. The fact is that many different people collect many different kind of dolls. Don't be fooled; the reason for this is not because they have no alternative to entertaining themselves. Doll collecting can actually be quite a rewarding experience.

Your average collector today has a myriad of choices, from vintage to up to date, small and large. Robert Tonner's 8-inch Tiny Betsy McCall captures the real meaning of McCall's paper dolls of the 1960s with in depth fashions and the wide-eyed purity and innocence of a little girl playing grownup. More in recent times, Wilde Imagination introduced the moody Ellowyne Wilde, a beautifully rendered 16-inch doll with fashions any woman would welcome to her closet.

And then Barbie, the Queen of all Fashion Dolls, comes along! Introduced at Toy Fair in 1959, Barbie has remained an iconic symbol of twentieth century play time even in this new millennium. Her ponytail and handsomely accessorized outfits allowed little girls to let their imaginations run wild and even imitate what they might be someday. Barbie was a lot of things; a flight attendant, a nurse and a sorority sister in her early years and she went on to become an astronaut, a doctor and a presidential candidate. And so, it is this imagination and imitation that adult collectors are drawn to today.

Many collectors are drawn to antique dolls like the German and French dolls that usually cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. Still others try to find the little girl dolls like Vogue's Ginny or American Character's Tiny Tears because with those, they are reminded of another time, when life was simpler. There is pretty much one word for all of this; nostalgia.

Adult life is very difficult and complicated under the best of circumstances and the doll's world is quite simply fun. When a collector is hindered in a moment of play, he or she is in their own little world. But, that's okay. Their little dollies know them.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant about kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls. You will find the best marketplace for kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls at these sites for kids toys, stuffed animals, and collectible dolls.

Should Dolls Be Role Models?

Children have to learn off something or someone. Whether it is from school, or from their classmates, they gain new knowledge wherever they go. You know how kids are; they imitate just about everything they see and hear. It would be normal for a little girl to want to have a little sister named Kelly and drive a pink car some day if Barbie was their favorite doll.

Should dolls be role models? Many people think not, especially not Barbie. If anything, American Girl dolls would be great for your daughter. American Girl is part Disney, part Barbie, part Nancy Drew and part Tipper Gore. Its great cause, other than making money, is the defense of girlish innocence. It presents its characters as wholesome alternatives to the trash-talking, navel-baring role models who tower over television and pop music.

Then again, dolls are just another form of toys. We all know toys are made to make a child's day. Dolls are not really role models. They are toys, and toys are just tools for our children to express themselves creatively. The children who play with Barbie dolls and show signs of the behaviors associated with Barbie are not modeling Barbie, but rather what they are being shown in other areas of their lives.

Dolls should be just toys. They help promote the imagination of young minds. The same thing goes for action figures, no matter what anyone says, they are just toys to be played with. They are not going to affect a child's life nor are the going to affect their future. The only true role models in their lives are their elders. They look to their elders to see what is right and what is wrong. They imitate the actions of individuals older than themselves because, well, that is just their nature.

Let's face it, dolls are not going to get kids through school or find a good paying job later on in life. The only thing dolls are good for is entertainment for kids. We can't count on plastic and fabric to show kids what to do and what not to do. That would be like counting on a so-called psychic to tell you your future with a crystal ball and some cards. We should take responsibility for what goes into the minds of young children. Protect them from the filth that is the world of pop music today. Be a good role model to your kids.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant about kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls. You will find the best marketplace for kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls at these sites for kids toys, stuffed animals, and Barbie dolls.

collectible barbie dolls

Barbie is a best-selling fashion doll launched in 1959. The doll is produced by Mattel, Inc., and is a major source of revenue for the company. The American businesswoman Ruth Handler (1916-2002) is regarded as the creator of Barbie, and the doll's design was inspired by a German doll called Bild Lilli.

Barbie has been an important part of the toy fashion doll market for nearly fifty years, and has been the subject of numerous controversies and lawsuits, often involving parody of the doll and her lifestyle.

Collecting:

Mattel estimates that there are well over 100,000 avid Barbie collectors. Ninety percent are women, at an average age of 40, purchasing more than twenty Barbie dolls each year. Forty-five percent of them spend upwards of $1000 a year.

Vintage Barbie dolls from the early years are the most valuable at auction, and while the original Barbie was sold for $3.00 in 1959, a mint boxed Barbie from 1959 sold for $3552.50 on ebay in October 2004. On September 26, 2006, a Barbie doll set a world record at auction of £9,000 sterling (US $17,000) at Christie's in London. The doll was a Barbie in Midnight Red from 1965 and was part of a private collection of 4,000 Barbie dolls being sold by two Dutch women, Ietje Raebel and her daughter Marina

In recent years Mattel has sold a wide range of Barbie dolls aimed specifically at collectors, including porcelain versions and depictions of Barbie as a range of characters from television series such as The Munsters and Star Trek There are also collector's edition dolls depicting Barbie dolls with a range of different ethnic identities. In 2004 Mattel introduced the Color Tier system for its collector's edition Barbie dolls, ranging through pink, silver, gold and platinum depending on how many of the dolls are produced.

collectible barbie dolls - retro barbie - vintage mattel dolls at

Toys of the 1950s - How to Enjoy Them With Your Children and Grandchildren

There's something about 1950s toys that just makes us smile. Though they lack the batteries, blinking lights, and loud noises of modern day toys, they have a way of transporting us back to simpler times. What's great about these toys is that they can still be enjoyed today and for less money than all the high tech toys that are being sold. With just a few creative touches, you can make these toys just as appealing to your children, if not more so, than any of their modern equivalents.

Here are some ways you can make these 1950s toys more enjoyable starting today.

Mr. Potato Head

You can't mention 1950s toys without acknowledging Mr. Potato Head. While we're all familiar with this fun little guy with changeable eyes, mouth, ears, it may be less known that this was the first toy to ever be advertised on television. To enjoy this toy with your children, try to boost their creativity by having them write or tell stories about the different personalities they can make by changing the facial features of Mr. Potato Head. Or you could create different looks for Mr. Potato Head and have your children act them out for helping them with their imagination.

Hula Hoop

When thinking of 1950s toys, one of the things that might come to mind is the Hula Hoop. This toy has become so popular the new hit video game, Wii Fit, includes a mini-game where you use your own body to make a character on the screen swing a Hula Hoop around their body. Can't shell out the money for the nintendo wii? No problem. Try holding a Hula Hoop competition with your children and record their results over time. They'll have fun and get exercise at the same time. To make this even better, use several Hula Hoops and see who can spin the most around their waist at the same time.

Barbie Doll

In 1959, young girls got a toy that would become their new best friend. At long last, Barbie made her entrance into the 1950s toys scene. Any trip to a toy store today shows that she's just as popular today as she was then. To enjoy Barbie with your children today, you can purchase video games like Barbie Fashion Designer and help them imagine life in the fashion world. Or you could also award points for chores your children complete that they can use towards purchasing new items for their Barbie dolls. If you look at popular online games like Neopets and Webkinz, you'll see that this system really works for motivating your children.

1950s toys can be a great alternative to the loud and obnoxious toys that are available today. While it might be easier to entertain your children with expensive products, often it's best to use tried and true products in new ways to help them boost their creativity, get them exercising, and help them get their chores done.

Visit Toys of the 1950s for a selection of games, dolls, trains, and other toys from your favorite era.

Insider's Guide to Successful Barbecue Cooking on a Gas Grill - Part One, Methods

Grilling is grilling, Right? Er, no, wrong! In order to get the most out of your gas grill, you need to be master of the different techniques. The trouble is that the instructions that come with the grill seldom tutor you in the real arts of grilling so here is the Grilling Coach's advice on outdoor cookery methods ...

Indirect Method

The indirect method works much the same way as a convection oven. You operate one burner and place the food over the other. The operating burner provides the heat, surrounding and cooking the food on the other side of the grill allowing you to cook slowly without the food coming in contact with the flames.

Since the heat is circulating, it is not necessary to turn the food. All preheating and cooking is done with the lid down.

Surface Broiling with Lid Raised

This method of broiling exposes only the bottom side of the meat or food to cooking temperatures. It is the slowest method of cooking on a gas grill and is, therefore, suitable only for foods that cook quickly.

Surface Broiling with Lid Lowered or Closed

Foods cook more quickly when the lid is lowered because heat is confined in the grill and both the top and bottom surfaces of the food are exposed to cooking temperatures.

You will also get smokier flavor when you cook with the lid lowered, as there is more flaming and more smoke. Be careful not to overcook the food, though. When broiling steaks or hamburgers, use a High setting to sear the surface. This will help keep the meat inside moist and juicy without overcooking the center of the meat.

Roasting or Baking

You can make your gas grill an oven by closing the cover. Using burner adjustments and the heat indicator, you can control the temperature inside the grill and use it to bake, roast, or barbecue an incredible variety of foods.

Rotisserie Broiling

Rotisserie broiling has several advantages. The meat browns and cooks evenly on all surfaces and does not require constant attention. Whole turkeys, chickens, hams, and large roasts can be barbecued with delicious results. Exact degrees of doneness can be easily determined by the use of a meat thermometer.

Insert the spit rod lengthwise through the center of the meat, balancing it carefully. Secure with holding forks. Roll the spit in the palms of your hands to see if it is balanced. If the weight is not evenly distributed, the spit rod will stop turning once the heavier side of the meat rotates to the down side.

Flare-ups

Reasonable amounts of flaming and smoking are desired in broiling or cooking most kinds of meat because that is what produces the barbecue flavor, the essence of outdoor cooking. Of course, too much will cause burning and charring of the meat and should be avoided.

To reduce or eliminate flare-ups:

Trim surplus fat off meat or fowl before cooking.

Purchase lean cuts of meat and ground chuck or round for hamburgers.

Avoid pre-basted turkeys, as they are filled with oil and need careful watching for excessive flare-ups.

Cook with grids at top level and, if necessary, burner at lower setting.

Have a squirt bottle of apple juice handy to douse minor flare-ups. Use baking soda for grease fires.

Flaming can be controlled, in some cases, by adjusting the lid slightly open.

Smoking

Covered grills give wonderful added smoke flavor to meat, poultry, and fish. Smoking woods are available in chips or chunks. Chunks burn longer than chips and are better for foods with longer cooking times. Soak wood chips and chunks in water for about one hour before using. Use a handful or two of chips or two or three chunks at a time placing them evenly over the lava rocks, being careful not to smother the fire. The more wood used, the stronger the flavor.

Do not use wood that has been commercially treated with chemicals. Softwoods such as pine are not recommended, as they give the food a bitter flavor.

HICKORY has a definite "smoked" flavor -- robust and western.

MESQUITE has a lighter "smoked" flavor -- more southern in taste.

APPLE AND CHERRY WOODS have a more delicate flavor and are excellent with poultry.

NUT WOODS have a milder smoke flavor.

GRAPEVINE CUTTINGS have a subtle sweet flavor.

For additional flavoring, throw some garlic cloves, fresh or dried herbs, or fruit rinds on the rocks.

Cooking Times

A cooking time chart is not an exact guide for cooking with a gas grill because you will be cooking outdoors where temperatures and wind can influence the rate of cooking. Different grills, size of the meat, and how often the lid is raised also have an effect on the cooking times.

There is no better way to ensure good cooking results than careful attention to the food on the grill. If you are cooking thick cuts of meat or whole fowl, a meat thermometer is your best insurance of exact cooking results, but be careful as some meat thermometers, left in while cooking, can give false readings. Your best guide is your own experience in the use of your gas grill. You will soon become an expert in gauging the amount of time needed to cook various foods and meats to the desired degree of doneness.

High Setting (Approximately 550°F/290°C)

Use this setting for searing steaks and chops, for a fast warm-up or for burning food residue from the grills after you are finished cooking. You seldom use this setting for extended cooking.

Medium Setting (Approximately 450°F/230°C)

Use this setting for most grilling, roasting and baking as well as for hamburgers and vegetables.

Low Setting (Approximately 350°F/180°C)

Use this setting for rotisserie cooking and smoking. (Given temperatures will vary with the outside temperature and the amount of wind.)

Cleaning

Once you are finished cooking, burn off any food residue by setting the control to High, closing the lid and heating for 5 to 10 minutes or until the smoking stops. After turning the heat off, use a long-handled wire brush to clean the grills. Protect your hands with oven mitts. You do not have to clean your barbecue after every use, but if you wish to give it an occasional scrubbing, use a mild solution of soap and water and rinse thoroughly. Never use a commercial oven cleaner.

For a more thorough cleaning of the grill and briquettes, place a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil, shiny side down, on top of the cooking grill. Leave gaps on the sides of the grill open so you are covering only three-quarters of the cooking surface. Ignite the grill with the burners on High, close the lid and let heat for 10 minutes. Turn all burners off and let cool. Remove the foil.

In part 2 the Grilling Coach deals with preventive maintenance and safety.

Want the best barbecue tips and advice? Want to impress friends and family with your grilling skills? Then visit the Grilling Coach now.

English Independence Day BBQ Cooking

It all started over two hundred years ago with oppression and taxation by the British crown and ended up with a war. I am not sure why the American nation chooses to celebrate its separation from the British on July 4th but as a barbecue enthusiast I can really see the benefits.

Being a native of the country that lost the war of independence I look at our national holidays and wonder what I have done to deserve the dates we have. I guess the closest we come is St Georges day and that is in April. Have you ever been to England in April? Well if not, let me tell you that it is wet, overcast and usually blowing a gale so in general an all round misery and not conducive to a barbecue. Maybe that's the reason why we do not celebrate our national saints day the same way that other countries do. Then let's look at the other big celebrations:-

Easter – in March or April so generally the same weather as St Georges Day

Christmas – December can actually be a very peaceful month but still pretty cold for a BBQ

I hear so much about the Independence Day BBQ and what a great event it is that I am really jealous, it seems completely logical to me to have a national holiday at the height of summer and make an excellent opportunity for a party. So just needing any excuse to light the barbecue why not celebrate the fact that we lost the war in 1776? After that of course the only dilemma left to settle is what to cook?

In England we have the added confusion of the terminology because an American will call an English barbecue, a grill, and what an Englishman calls a meat smoker in America is called a barbecue pit. This makes some traditional barbecue smoker recipes difficult for an Englishman to do albeit I have got around this by investing in a Kamado ceramic barbecue but if an Englishman really wants a low cost method to indirectly cook then it's got to be a large gas bbq grill that has at least two burners. I this way the food can be cooked over a drip tray on one side of the barbie whilst on the other side the heat is applied to the coals.

So what do I cook? It is only right that an Independence Day BBQ should be packed with the all American taste so for me it has to be a pulled pork recipe and / or a barbecue ribs recipe. Long slow cooking basted by a sugary viscous mop and a few soaked wood chips to complete the flavour – fantastic! It is always important to let the meat rest after the cooking process as this seals in the juices and during this time it makes perfect sense to be grilling that bbq appetizers. I go for some barbecue fish recipes because generally they are really quick to cook and offer a completely different flavour to the main course.

For dessert it has to be a blueberry pie but at the moment I have not been able to work out how I can do this on the barbie. I'll keep trying and in the meantime I continue to send my thanks across the pond for a great summer party feast.

Independence Day BBQ - Barbecue Grill and Smoker Recipes for July 4th.

Barbecue Ribs Recipes - Easy ribs recipes for the smoker.

Homemade Barbecue Sauce - Great easy recipes.

Insiders Guide to Grilling - 10 Great Tips for a Successful Barbecue

Running a successful barbecue is largely a matter of common sense, planning and organisation. The two main fuels used to grill outdoors are charcoal and gas; each requires a different technique. In this article, the Grilling Coach offers you 10 valuable gas grilling tips ...

Always place your grill on a solid, level surface away from fences, shrubs, grass, and overhangs. Grill in a well-ventilated area and always open the grill lid before igniting.

Allow more cooking time on cold or windy days or at higher altitudes. On extremely hot days allow less time.

Spray the food grate with non-stick cooking spray before starting the grill. Never spray directly over the fire (gas) as you can cause a fire. To grease a hot grate, fold a paper towel into a small pad. Hold the pad with long-handled tongs, dip it in vegetable oil and rub over the grate.

To forestall flare-ups during cooking, trim excess fat from meats or use lean ground meats or place a drip pan directly under meats.

Have two pairs of long-handled tongs -- one for moving the coals and one to turn food.

Bring foods up to a cool room temperature before placing on the grill. Cold foods straight from the refrigerator may burn on the outside before the interior is cooked.

Don't crowd food on the grill. Allow some space around each piece for even cooking and clean the food grate with a stiff wire brush after cooking.

Don't allow raw meat and fish to come into contact with other food. Use separate cutting boards and utensils. Thoroughly wash your hands and surfaces with hot soapy water after handling uncooked foods. Don't carve cooked meat on the same board used to handle raw meat. The professionals don't so why should you!

Protect yourself from the heat with long barbecue mitts and long-handled tools. Instead of a fork, use tongs to turn to avoid piercing the food and losing juices. Spatulas should be used for hamburgers.

Use a meat or instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of meat and poultry before the recommended cooking time is up. Do not leave an instant thermometer in the food while grilling.

So there you have it, top advice for success straight from the Grilling Coach. Grill smart not hard to really enjoy your barbecue!

Want the best barbecue tips and advice? Want to impress friends and family with your grilling recipes? Then visit the Grilling Coach now.

Have the entire fun with your Barbie!

It is said that 'Barbie's are a girl's best friend'. Yes. It is completely true because small girls and even many teenage girls like to spend most of their time with their barbie dolls. Although it is a doll but it's like a friend to them with which they like to interact. Till now this is a common fad and this is being utilized by many online websites to let every Barbie lovers have all the fun. If you also like to try out some new interesting things which you can do with your favorite Barbie then definitely go online and search for websites which features all these stuffs.

Playing Barbie games is one of the most popular items featured here. If you haven't tried out such games and like to play them then you must have a tryout in these websites. Play games like 'Restaurant Design', 'Room Decoration' 'Party Time Barbie' and lots of other interesting games. All of these games vary in different websites so you will never get bored.

How about playing some Barbiedress up games? Here you are actually needed to dress up your Barbie as per the situation demands. Whether you want to keep her home or in a party occasion you can choose the perfect attires for her. Use matching shoes, hats and gloves accordingly. Become a fashion designer for your Barbie online!

Apart from playing games you can also try out the Barbie makeover sections of these websites made for kids. Spend a little time to customize your Barbie's looks as per the occasion. You can use various cosmetics, ribbons, bangles, necklaces and other jewelries to change or create the perfect look of your Barbie. Also you will love to spend time combing her hair all online. Stylize Barbie's hair in short, medium or long fashion as per your heart's content.

Girls Games

We have seen many Arabian women were asking to have website that provides free online women games. The women were asking about varies types of games such as cooking, makeup, decorates, etc. The Arabian websites were trying to satisfy the women needs/wants by providing poor games. However, they found that the women were still searching for other games websites.

Here Wslaat has came to provide the most wanted women games in the e-world, and all the games are free and can be download it to their PC. Many women has written review about the websites in the online forums saying they are finally can replay on Arabian website to find the greatest women games. That's not all, many women has offer to help Wslaat team to find the latest women games and they are submitting games in daily basis to have fresh fantastic new games everyday.

Khamis is owner of العاب بنات. Girls Games. العاب باربي

Toys That Are Loved By Kids

Toys are a huge part of any kid's life. Their imagination and fascination is boosted when they see toys of different types. These toys act as great teachers for kids. Children learn many things from toys. Kids are introduced to colours, shapes, sizes and names through the medium of toys. Toys are best pals of the kids. Toys are always with the kids since their early ages. The choice of the toys, most often, is in their parent's hands. The toys are the factors that play a major role in a child's growth.

Toys, in general, are classified as per a child's age. Toys for toddlers are different, than the toys for older children. The complexity and innovation increases along with the increasing age. It's safe to say that toys grow with kids. Toys come in many forms. These can be miniature figures of bigger objects like airplane and cars. Some may be fictional figures like Barbie and robot. Even the animals and birds become the toys for the kids.

Some of the most famous toys are Barbie dolls, various types of dolls, robots, action figures, airplanes and cars. Generally, Barbie dolls and other dolls, are loved by little girls. On the other hand, boys love cars, airplanes and robots. Action figures can be found in a boy's room rather than a girl's room.

A Barbie doll, is a cute little doll, which comes with all the girly factors. The slightly older girls, love this pretty and ramp, model like doll. These dolls are given fashionable clothes. One can see the latest fashions in clothing on Barbie dolls. They are given new hairstyles and accessories. Some of the accessories are large enough, so that they can be used by the girls also. For example, some of the Barbie dolls are provided with hair brushes, hair colour sprays, beads, clips and jewellery. These accessories can be worn by a little girl. Barbie dolls often represent a fairy tale character. So, one can find characters like Cinderella, Snow- white, Thumbelina, little mermaid, Red riding hood and sleeping beauty. Other than these, Barbie's come as the miniatures of fashion models.

Robots are one of the most innovative toys found. Robots are the combination of intelligent design and innovation. Robots toys are different than the normal action figures. Most robots are battery driven. Robots comprise of moving parts like hands, legs, head, weapons and antenna. There are lots of types of robots. These are inclusive of flying robots, rolling or simply responsive to the touch. Some of the robots listen to the voice commands. These robots react according to the command, like dogs.

Airplanes can be categorised as flying toys. There are airplanes which are miniature figures of bigger planes. Few types of the airplanes are battery driven, while others are remote controlled.

Whatever the toy may be, kids love and appreciate different types of toys. Most girls love dolls, and generally speaking boys prefer toys such as cars, bikes, robots, planes etc. So make sure you buy the right gift for the right child.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant about kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls. You will find the best marketplace for kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls at these sites for toys, stuffed animals, and dolls.

Princess Birthday Party Decorating Ideas

The time has come for your little princess to celebrate her birthday and she has decided that this is the year for her royal ball; an enchanting afternoon to celebrate with all of her friends. Now what? Relax, take a deep breath and follow our guide to decorate for the Perfect Princess Party.

Whether you a month or even just a week to plan, we will make this birthday the easiest and best.

First you need to decide what is doable and what you can do without. If you have a budget, stick to the basics. You do not need to spend a lot of money to have a magical day.

Of course decorations are a must! If you are on a budget, the dollar store is your friend. You are certain to find streamers, table covers and balloons there. Here you can save some money by purchasing basic colors instead of Princess themed streamers and balloons. Buy a mix of pink, purple, white or yellow. These are the basic colors for princesses.

First, start by making a thrown for the princess. If she is younger in age, a child's chair will work great. My daughter had a Cinderella plush chair that made a great thrown. If you do not have something similar, take a basic chair and cover with tulle fabric. If it is an adult chair, try adding a step stool in front, to make it easier for her to get on and off. Place chair against a blank wall if possible

Using more tulle, curtains or streamers, decorate the wall directly behind the thrown. Arrange on the wall as you would arrange drapes on a window. Instead of the window being the focal point, the thrown will be instead.

What thrown would be complete with a carpet that leads up to it? I used large red construction paper and taped it together to make a red walkway carpet. I already had it on hand and it added so much flair to the thrown area. The girls loved walking on the "red carpet".

Entering the princess party can be just as exciting as the inside, with doorway decoration. If you are crafty and have patience try this project. Start by deciding which doorway you would like to decorate. It can be the doorframe to the house or to the thrown area. Measure the width of the doorframe, so that you know how wide to make your castle entrance. Using cardboard or heavy paper cut the top half and shape to represent a castle making castle towers. Leave the bottom half straight so that it aligns parallel to the floor. Try to make it a good height, so that the adults won't bump their heads coming it and out. After decorating with construction paper or paint, hang from the top of the doorway. If you have the time or would like to make it more elaborate, you can also add the sides of the castle and a lowered drawbridge. These decorations can be made in advance and setup the night before.

If adding a castle entrance is too much work, try adding streamers and balloons instead.

Decorating the tables and chairs can be just as easy or elaborate depending on your budget, space and time. If you want to have a table just for the princess and her court, design her table with a Princess themed, pink or purple table cover and all other tables should have white table covers. Centerpieces can be a single red rose in a vase to honor Belle of Beauty and the Beast or glass slippers if Cinderella is her favorite. You can find faux roses and vases in inexpensive party stores or in dollar discount stores, whereas glass slippers may have to be an online purchase from auction sites or online party stores.

Chairs can be draped with tulle or fabric and embellished with a bow in the back. If you have a table just for the princess and her court, you can just decorate the chairs for them.

Decorate the cake table with Princess themed napkins, plates and party favors. Be all the little girls have tiaras or princess hats and the little boys have crowns or swords. You can also have the party goers dress in royal attire to add flair to such a special occasion.

Dress up the walls with princess pictures and posters can add that special touch. A great idea is to print princess pictures, place in frames and hang on a wall to represent all the princesses that came before yours. You can purchase inexpensive frames in discount stores, dollar stores and superstores. Find nice princess pictures by searching online.

Last but not least, don't be afraid to be bold and help make your Princess feel special on her birthday, after all she is royalty.

Cynthia Marcano is the webmaster of Find Princess, Disney Princess, Barbie Princess, Fairytale Dora, furniture, birthday supplies, costumes, games, coloring pages and more.

Princess Party Decorating Ideas

The time has come for your little princess to celebrate her birthday and she has decided that this is the year for her royal ball; an enchanting afternoon to celebrate with all of her friends. Now what? Relax, take a deep breath and follow our guide to decorate for the Perfect Princess Party.

Whether you a month or even just a week to plan, we will make this birthday the easiest and best.

First you need to decide what is doable and what you can do without. If you have a budget, stick to the basics. You do not need to spend a lot of money to have a magical day.

Of course decorations are a must! If you are on a budget, the dollar store is your friend. You are certain to find streamers, table covers and balloons there. Here you can save some money by purchasing basic colors instead of Princess themed streamers and balloons. Buy a mix of pink, purple, white or yellow. These are the basic colors for princesses.

First, start by making a thrown for the princess. If she is younger in age, a child's chair will work great. My daughter had a Cinderella plush chair that made a great thrown. If you do not have something similar, take a basic chair and cover with tulle fabric. If it is an adult chair, try adding a step stool in front, to make it easier for her to get on and off. Place chair against a blank wall if possible

Using more tulle, curtains or streamers, decorate the wall directly behind the thrown. Arrange on the wall as you would arrange drapes on a window. Instead of the window being the focal point, the thrown will be instead.

What thrown would be complete with a carpet that leads up to it? I used large red construction paper and taped it together to make a red walkway carpet. I already had it on hand and it added so much flair to the thrown area. The girls loved walking on the "red carpet".

Entering the princess party can be just as exciting as the inside, with doorway decoration. If you are crafty and have patience try this project. Start by deciding which doorway you would like to decorate. It can be the doorframe to the house or to the thrown area. Measure the width of the doorframe, so that you know how wide to make your castle entrance. Using cardboard or heavy paper cut the top half and shape to represent a castle making castle towers. Leave the bottom half straight so that it aligns parallel to the floor. Try to make it a good height, so that the adults won't bump their heads coming it and out. After decorating with construction paper or paint, hang from the top of the doorway. If you have the time or would like to make it more elaborate, you can also add the sides of the castle and a lowered drawbridge. These decorations can be made in advance and setup the night before.

If adding a castle entrance is too much work, try adding streamers and balloons instead.

Decorating the tables and chairs can be just as easy or elaborate depending on your budget, space and time. If you want to have a table just for the princess and her court, design her table with a Princess themed, pink or purple table cover and all other tables should have white table covers. Centerpieces can be a single red rose in a vase to honor Belle of Beauty and the Beast or glass slippers if Cinderella is her favorite. You can find faux roses and vases in inexpensive party stores or in dollar discount stores, whereas glass slippers may have to be an online purchase from auction sites or online party stores.

Chairs can be draped with tulle or fabric and embellished with a bow in the back. If you have a table just for the princess and her court, you can just decorate the chairs for them.

Decorate the cake table with Princess themed napkins, plates and party favors. Be all the little girls have tiaras or princess hats and the little boys have crowns or swords. You can also have the party goers dress in royal attire to add flair to such a special occasion.

Dress up the walls with princess pictures and posters can add that special touch. A great idea is to print princess pictures, place in frames and hang on a wall to represent all the princesses that came before yours. You can purchase inexpensive frames in discount stores, dollar stores and superstores. Find nice princess pictures by searching online.

Last but not least, don't be afraid to be bold and help make your Princess feel special on her birthday, after all she is royalty.

Cynthia Marcano is the webmaster of Find Princess, Disney Princess, Barbie Princess, Fairytale Dora, furniture, birthday supplies, costumes, games, coloring pages and more.

Are Dress Up Games a Good Choice for My Kid?

Do you think that the baby dolls with pink dresses and cute skull caps are the most desirable items that a little girl could want? No, that is so outdated or, to speak in fashion terms, "so 1995". Nowadays, it seems that the most popular dolls are no longer made of plastic, they no longer have the baby doll outfits and their baby shoes. Nope. Nowadays, dolls are not even real anymore, they are virtual. Virtual dolls won't be a surprise to you, in case you are familiar with the popular dress-up games that can be found on a wide range of websites. Wait: virtual dolls that can be dressed as the player pleases? Yes, exactly. Well, these dress-up games might not be such bad things – after all, it seems quite affordable to "own" and play with a virtual doll – oh wait, it is actually free.

So, what do we need in order to have fun with these games? Well, we obviously need a computer, the one and only Internet, a few clicks and lots of imagination! Think about it: these clothes need no washing, no ironing, no folding, no maintenance at all, we simply select them and place them on the doll's figure. And no, we don't need to get annoyed trying to slide those tiny buttons into their even tinier button holes. What a relief!

If you are a mom or a dad and your kid is playing with these virtual dolls and dress-up games, you might ask yourself: Are these games any good for my kid? Can he/she learn something from them? You will be surprised that yes, your kid might actually learn something. For sure, not advanced mathematics, spelling or history, but kids and teens can actually improve their aesthetic sense and their artistic abilities – after all, mixing forms, colors and shapes (as in clothes) together can be quite an artistic hobby. Such as painting. Such as drawing or such as coloring and the list can go on. Don't be surprised if your little one comes tom you and informs you that he/she desires to be a stylist or a fashion designer, after a few rounds with these dress-up games.

And, above all, dress-up games stir the imagination and creativity. Sure, at a first glance, these games - that seem to simulate the games of 5 year old girls with their plastic dolls - might seem superficial: after all, it is all about clothes with spangles and glitter, high heeled boots, jeans miniskirts, red wigs and oversized earrings. You might tend to think that all these trendy elements do not actually construct role models for your kid. But think about it this way: would you rather see your kid play one of those shooting, killing and butchering games? Monsters, guns and blood versus pretty clothes and trendy accessories – you decide. The dress-up games must seem really harmless, if analyzed from this perspective. OK, we couldn't go that far and call these games quite educational, but hey, they are a preferable and creative choice.

Dress up and online games resources:

Doll dress up games

Fashion dressup games

Pokemon toys and cards

Dress Up Dolls

You've been doing it since you were a baby. First were the floppy soft dolls, and then you progressed to Barbie. Dressing up dolls is a favorite pastime for many girls, and if you still dress up Barbie occasionally in secret, it's okay - there is an entire community just like you.

As the internet has grown, websites have been developed that appeal to all kinds of people. We think of games online and message boards, but did you realize there are also dress up dolls online

? And not just a few basic dolls – these girls put Barbie's Dream Closet to shame.

Dress Up Dolls

Originally dolls were developed for use as plain images, but since girls enjoyed them so much, many websites, such as TheDollP began to allow girls to

This article was provided by The Doll Palace - creator of doll makers and fashion dress up games for girls. For more information about cartoon dolls, avatars and The Doll Palace, visit

Barbie Doll Fun Facts - A Trip Through Time

Since 1959, Mattel's Barbie doll has been a smash hit with little girls around the world. Barbie has certainly seen it all over the years. Here are just a few facts to see if you can remember some of the more important moments in the life of Barbie.

1. For over 45 years the Barbie doll has been involved in over 80 different careers. Her first career was actually a teenage fashion model.

2. In 1992, Barbie doll was a Presidential candidate. No word on whether she was a Democrat or Republican.

3. Barbie first became an astronaut back in 1965. She also continued to be one in 1986 and 1994.

4. Barbie was not released in Europe until 1961, two years after debuting in the U.S.

5. Over 150 nations market the Barbie doll.

6. Mattel estimates that two Barbie dolls are sold somewhere every two seconds.

7. In 1980, Mattel came out with the first Hispanic and black Barbie dolls.

8. Totally Hair Barbie has the distinction of being the best seller over the years.

9. Barbie has had 5 sisters over the years and 21 dogs as well; although her first pet was a horse called Dancer.

10. Only stamp collecting is more popular in the U.S. than doll collecting.

11. Amazingly, over 105 million yards of material have been used in making Barbie doll clothes. This includes her friends also. In fact, Mattel is a major clothing maker.

12. The very first Mattel Barbie doll sold for a price of $3.00.

13. Do you have an original 1959 Barbie doll? It would be worth up to $10,000 if it's in good condition.

14. The market for Barbie is $1.5 billion dollars, per year.

15. The Ken doll, which was Barbie's long-time boyfriend, first came out in 1961.

All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Reprint Rights: You may reprint this article as long as you leave all of the links active and do not edit the article in any way.

You can find out much more about Barbie Doll Facts as well as more information on everything to do with Barbie on our website at

Bringing Back Handmade Barbie Clothes

Remember playing with dolls when you were a child? If you were like me, you had a Barbie doll or two in your toy box. Barbie was introduced in 1959 by a lady named Ruth Handler (co-founder of Mattel). Ruth named the doll after her own daughter, Barbara. In 1961, Ruth created Barbie's boyfriend, the Ken doll, named after her son. Now, almost half a century later, Barbie is still in the hearts and toy boxes of children (and even adults) everywhere.

Our children today have more toys than ever. Electronic toys, video game systems, iPods, and computers are just the beginning. So much has changed in the world of toys since we were children but one thing that hasn't changed is the simple love of the Barbie doll. Barbie today has new friends, new clothes, a new house, and even more new pets than she did 40 years ago. However, little girls today still enjoy dressing and primping Barbie to act out her fantasy life during playtime.

My grandmother was a seamstress. She would sew beautiful clothes and accessories for my Barbie doll collection. I had a suitcase full of her handmade creations and the kids in the neighborhood would come over so we could dress the dolls. I loved selecting the fabrics and picking out dress styles. Although I didn't realize it at the time, the clothes she made for my dolls were better quality than anything I could buy in a store.

As a teenager I became interested in sewing. Because my grandmother had passed, I was left to teach myself how to sew. I spent hours upon hours in front of my Kenmore sewing machine turning out beautiful creations. It came so naturally to me. Through the years I created clothing for myself and my family, window dressings, and decorative home decor items. I later spent about 5 years doing ready-to-wear clothing alterations for the general public. Then, about 10 years ago, a dear friend gave me the greatest birthday gift... a Barbie doll. Let me tell you, you are never too old to receive a Barbie doll!

While going through some old boxes during our last move, I found a box with many of the Barbie dresses my grandmother had made. The finding inspired me! I would make new clothes with today's fabrics for my Barbie doll. What could be better than handmade doll clothes? They are hard to find in this day and age because people don't have or make time to sew like they used to. As I began creating beautiful dresses, everyone who saw them wanted to buy them so I added them to my online craft store. I couldn't believe the response. I have received so many emails from people who told me beautiful stories of their mothers, aunts, and grandmothers who handmade their doll clothes when they were children. I then knew that bringing back handmade doll clothes for today's families would be the beginning of new traditions and would help create beautiful memories and gifts that could be passed down through generations. In a world where everything is so commercialized, going back to the basics with Barbie has reminding me of a wonderful time in my childhood. Today, my greatest joy is knowing that my creations will be passed down through generations to come and that I have a hand in helping today's children create memories that will last a lifetime.

Adrienne Hughes, seamstress and e-book author of Sewing Patterns Defined lives with her husband, her Yorkshire Terrier, and her Barbie dolls in Texas. She has no affiliation with Mattel. She invites you to visit her online Barbie clothing store and

Home Sewing...A Forgotten Pastime

There was a time in the world when mom or grandma would make their children's school clothes, repair garments by hand, and make stuffed animals and gifts for the neighbors. Children arrived on the first day of school wearing a new handmade dress or uniform. Their fashion dolls were dressed in clothing made of the same fabrics and stuffed animals were created from remnants or socks. Fast forward to the 21st century where most people's clothing, home decor items, and gifts are purchased at the local mall or department store. Brand names and trendy styles are what kids are wearing now. Today we live among a multi-tasking fast-paced generation where instant gratification is the norm. No longer do people have the time or the patience to sit in front of a sewing machine or grab a needle and thread to create hand-made items. People today are constantly on the go.

Where did our mothers and grandmothers learn to sew? They were taught by their mothers, grandmothers, and even in a school. It wasn't until the late 1970's that we started seeing sewing education classes disappear from many school curriculums. During the 1970's and before, sewing was primarily viewed as "women's work". However, there came a time when women were longing to join the workforce and earn money working outside of the home like their male counterparts. Eventually, it became common to see families who had two parents working outside of the home. In two-parent working families, when would there be time to go back to the basics and sew? Parents were still responsible for home and family duties after working a 40-hour week which left little time for doing things "the old way". As a result, with more money coming into the household and less time to sew, families were buying their clothes and gifts off the shelf.

As a child growing up, my mom was too tired and lacked the time and patience necessary to teach me how to sew. After all, it was much easier to just go to the store and buy whatever we needed. If children of my generation experienced family life as I did, how would we learn to sew and teach our children to sew? Better yet, how would we keep this tradition alive for years to come? Looking back, some of the most beautiful dresses I owned and the cutest outfits my Barbie dolls had came from grandma's sewing machine. I didn't know it then but handmade clothing was becoming scarce and I wish I would have treasured it more than I did. I have very few items left from grandma but I still have the handmade Barbie doll clothes.

Something inside of me always yearned to sew. I wanted to create handmade items that would be carried through generations. I wanted to create items that had my personal touch and a quality you could no longer find on a store shelf. I wanted to pick the fabrics and lace and create beautiful dresses. When I went in search of someone in the family who could teach me, I didn't find anyone who still sewed or who was willing to teach me. I decided I would buy a sewing machine and teach myself. With the help of many books and a little trial and error, I became a self-taught seamstress. I began making my own clothes, making gifts for family, and making Barbie doll clothes for my nieces. The joy I derived from sharing my handmade treasures was more than I could hope for.

As neighbors, friends, and family began to appreciate and treasure my love of sewing, I was finding that it reminded them of a time when their relatives created handmade items for them. Very few of them had any remnants of the items that were hand-crafted for them which made them appreciate my talent even more. Today, not only do I teach my younger family members how to sew, I sew Barbie doll clothes for my online store. I've been selling doll clothes online since 2001 and have received so many emails from appreciative customers who tell me what my hand crafted items mean to them. Even if people today do not have the time or skills to make hand-sewn items, I am able to bring my creations into their families which helps them to create new memories and traditions. My hope is that the handmade items I make for others not only bring them happy memories later in life but might also one day inspire them to learn how to sew.

Adrienne Hughes, seamstress and e-book author of Sewing Patterns Defined lives with her husband, her Yorkshire Terrier, and her Barbie dolls in Texas. She has no affiliation with Mattel. She invites you to visit her online Barbie clothing store and

Trademark Law - The Protection of Famous Trademarks

Famous trademarks are awarded significant protection under the Canadian Trademarks Act. The trademarks act protects the owners of trademarks from others who would use a confusingly similar trademark. Section 6 of the act defines what constitutes confusion. In particular, section 6 states that the use of a trademark causes confusion with another trademark if the use is likely to lead to the inference that the wares or services associated with those trademarks are manufactured, sold, leased, hired or performed by the same person or business, whether or not the wares or services are of the same general class. Hence, trademarks which are quite famous, can theoretically be protected against others who would use similar trademarks for completely different products or services. This has lead some to speculate that famous trademarks can be enforced beyond the scope of their original trademark registrations. Hence, the trademark registrations for the famous trademark VIRGIN, used by the Virgin group of companies, could theoretically be enforced against any person or company who used the trademark VIRGIN for virtually any product or service.

The supreme court of Canada in the recent case of Mattel Inc. V. 3894207 Canada Inc. has clarified the law concerning the issue of confusion as applied to famous trademarks. The case involved a numbered company which operated a chain of restaurants in the Montreal area under the trademark BARBIE'S. The numbered company filed a trademark application in order to protect its trademark. The application was approved by the trademarks office, but later opposed by Mattel Inc. on the basis that the mark was allegedly confusing with Mattel's registered trademark BARBIE. The opponent, Mattel, brought forward survey evidence which demonstrated that, in the mind of the people surveyed, that there might possibly be a link between the applicant's restaurant and the opponents trademark. Despite Mattel's evidence, the opposition board rejected Mattel's position. Mattel appealed to the Federal Court. The Opposition board's decision was confirmed by the Federal Court and then again by the Federal Court of Appeal. Mattel appealed yet again to the Supreme Court of Canada.

The Supreme court dealt with two principal issues, namely the nature of confusion and the nature of the evidence used to find confusion. On the issue of confusion, the court accepted Mattel's contention that the BARBIE trademark was famous. Indeed, the justices agreed with Mattel's contention that the BARBIE trademark had reached the status of a cultural icon. Nevertheless, in the court's opinion, the mark was famous only with respect to dolls and not with respect to restaurant services. While the court concluded that resemblance of the wares/services is not a requirement for a finding of confusion, a significant difference in the nature of wares/services used in association with two trademarks was an important consideration in determining confusion. Simply because the BARBIE trademark was famous with respect to dolls, that fame, in itself, did not render the mark famous in other areas such as restaurant services. In effect, the court held that since the "doll" business and the restaurant business appealed to different tastes and largely different clienteles, there was no likelihood of confusion between the two trademarks.

As to the issue of the survey evidence introduced by Mattel, the court dismissed it as irrelevant. The court noted that the test is one of likelihood of confusion, i.e. that there must be a finding that the two marks are likely to be confused. The court noted that the survey asked the question "Do you believe that the company that makes BARBIE dolls might have anything to do with this sign or logo". The survey asked a question addressing the issue of possible confusion, not likely confusion. The court seemed to leave open the door for the possible relevance of this type of survey evidence, provided of course the wording of the question resulted in a clear test of likelihood of confusion. Of course, evidence of actual confusion would have been highly relevant; however, no such evidence was submitted.

While this case does seem to limit the scope of protection afforded to famous trademarks, the case did leave the door open to marks whose fame was such that confusion could be found even if the competing mark was used for very different wares/services. Indeed, the court sited the example of the VIRGIN trademark, which has been used with a diverse nature of wares and services including soft drinks, music, games, resorts, cellular phones, clothing, books, cosmetics, credit cards and even air lines. The fame of the VIRGIN trademark may be of such breadth that using a similar mark for an unrelated service or product may result in a likelihood of confusion. In essence, since the VIRGIN trademark is famous in such a variety of different areas, it is possible that the average consumer might be confused if confronted with a similar trademark in a line of business not presently occupied by Richard Branson's group of companies.

Elias Borges is a lawyer and a registered patent & trademark agent with Borges & Rolle LLP in Toronto, Canada. patent lawyer

Self Esteem And Body Image

After twenty years of research and experience as an empowerment coach and as an esthetician, I have spent hours working with women who struggle with their self-esteem. Much of this struggle relates to body image and the desire for larger breasts. Since breast size can be a significant factor in how a woman feels about herself, I began assisting my clients with information, treatments and procedures that could enhance their bustline nautrally.

I got an email from a woman who was a breast cancer survivor and wanted to know which method of natural breast enlargement would be safest for her. I respected her desire for larger breasts, but couldn't help wondering if she shouldn't be focusing on something else, like her unique talents and abilities. Her question lead me on a journey from how to enhance the breasts to why is it so important to women today. Where did this breast obsession come from?

One theory is the lack of using breasts for their primary function, breast feeding babies. The number of women breast feeding has dramatically declined. Many look at a nursing mother with disapproval or disgust,even though she is doing what nature intended and equipped her to do. That leads to the idea that the primary function of the breasts is connected to sexuality.

Another theory is the introduction of the Barbie doll in 1959.. Little girls playing with the doll naturally grew up thinking that the perfect figure was that of a Barbie doll.

Some blame the media and the over exposure of breasts in a sexual way. Our society is being bombarded in movies, television, Fashion magazines and advertisements with the idea that looks are everything. They send the message that if your looks are good enough, your life will be glamourous and you will be happy and popular. Wherever it comes from, we have an epidemic of women who are not happy with their body , and it is affecting their lives. Women who are more focused on their body's form than it's function.

The rise in eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, and the high incident of cosmetic surgery in young women demonstrates a woman's feelings of not being enough and the need to be accepted by society.

So how do we go about fixing the problem? Margaret Mead made clear the power of a small group to make changes in society when she said it has always been the small group of thoughtful, committed citizens that has changed the world. A few strong, committed women can make a difference, and bring awareness of our need to change and create a turnaround in how we as individuals and as a culture perceives the value of a woman. We've been struggling with this for decades.

Support programs that honor and encourage women in intellectual endeavors, accomplishment in sports, community service and things like that. If non exist in your area create one.

Don't be afraid to speak your mind. Write or call those businesses who promote the idea that the most acceptable women are the most physically beautiful, unnaturally thin women and express your disapproval or even tell

them you will not buy their products or services and will encourage others to boycott the products and services.

Support , write and call those business that do a great job of promoting the true essence of women and help them to accept who they are, such as the The Dove Campaign For Real Beauty. Hopefully other businesses will catch on and follow their example.

Find and appreciate your inner beauty and let it radiate on the outside. Learn to love who you, where you are, and what you are . Be in the moment and live a life of gratitude for what you have. Focusing on others

will diminish the focus one personal problems. And cultivate confidence by accepting your situation and moving through fear and self doubt.

Little by little , working together we can make great strides in resolving the body image issue.

Janice Bird is an author, an empowerment coach and a master esthetician. You can subscribe to her health, fitness and beauty newsletter by going to Find out more about Janice at

Self Esteem And Body Image

After twenty years of research and experience as an empowerment coach and as an esthetician, I have spent hours working with women who struggle with their self-esteem. Much of this struggle relates to body image and the desire for larger breasts. Since breast size can be a significant factor in how a woman feels about herself, I began assisting my clients with information, treatments and procedures that could enhance their bustline nautrally.

I got an email from a woman who was a breast cancer survivor and wanted to know which method of natural breast enlargement would be safest for her. I respected her desire for larger breasts, but couldn't help wondering if she shouldn't be focusing on something else, like her unique talents and abilities. Her question lead me on a journey from how to enhance the breasts to why is it so important to women today. Where did this breast obsession come from?

One theory is the lack of using breasts for their primary function, breast feeding babies. The number of women breast feeding has dramatically declined. Many look at a nursing mother with disapproval or disgust,even though she is doing what nature intended and equipped her to do. That leads to the idea that the primary function of the breasts is connected to sexuality.

Another theory is the introduction of the Barbie doll in 1959.. Little girls playing with the doll naturally grew up thinking that the perfect figure was that of a Barbie doll.

Some blame the media and the over exposure of breasts in a sexual way. Our society is being bombarded in movies, television, Fashion magazines and advertisements with the idea that looks are everything. They send the message that if your looks are good enough, your life will be glamourous and you will be happy and popular. Wherever it comes from, we have an epidemic of women who are not happy with their body , and it is affecting their lives. Women who are more focused on their body's form than it's function.

The rise in eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, and the high incident of cosmetic surgery in young women demonstrates a woman's feelings of not being enough and the need to be accepted by society.

So how do we go about fixing the problem? Margaret Mead made clear the power of a small group to make changes in society when she said it has always been the small group of thoughtful, committed citizens that has changed the world. A few strong, committed women can make a difference, and bring awareness of our need to change and create a turnaround in how we as individuals and as a culture perceives the value of a woman. We've been struggling with this for decades.

Support programs that honor and encourage women in intellectual endeavors, accomplishment in sports, community service and things like that. If non exist in your area create one.

Don't be afraid to speak your mind. Write or call those businesses who promote the idea that the most acceptable women are the most physically beautiful, unnaturally thin women and express your disapproval or even tell

them you will not buy their products or services and will encourage others to boycott the products and services.

Support , write and call those business that do a great job of promoting the true essence of women and help them to accept who they are, such as the The Dove Campaign For Real Beauty. Hopefully other businesses will catch on and follow their example.

Find and appreciate your inner beauty and let it radiate on the outside. Learn to love who you, where you are, and what you are . Be in the moment and live a life of gratitude for what you have. Focusing on others

will diminish the focus one personal problems. And cultivate confidence by accepting your situation and moving through fear and self doubt.

Little by little , working together we can make great strides in resolving the body image issue.

Janice Bird is an author, an empowerment coach and a master esthetician. You can subscribe to her health, fitness and beauty newsletter by going to Find out more about Janice at

Celebrate Barbie's 45th Anniversary in Style

From hot pink slides and faux fur stoles to pink and white pumps and vivid vinyl handbags, it seems that over the past four and a half decades, Barbie celebrated each year by simply adding another fun and fabulous accessory to her wardrobe.

No wonder Barbie has been an integral part of the lives of millions of women since 1959 - becoming the most popular fashion doll in the world.

In honor of Barbie doll's milestone, look for the 45th Barbie Anniversary Collection by Hallmark - a new line of gift items, cards and keepsake ornaments that celebrate friendship, fashion and fun and capture that special bond only women can share.

"Celebrating 45 years of trend-setting fashion, this collection incorporates nostalgic images from the official Barbie archives, which will delight the imaginations of Barbie doll fans around the world," says Greg Raymond, vice president of license acquisitions at Hallmark.

For your next soiree, plan a complete martini-style party with glassware and a unique Bunko game set designed with a high heels and handbags theme.

Don't forget invitations that herald the joy of shoes and shopping. Offer nostalgic Barbie- themed notecards or candles as special gifts and surprise the guest of honor with her very own limited-edition Barbie Keepsake Ornament, inspired by the 45th Anniversary Barbie doll by

Bob Mackie.

With the introduction of the 45th Barbie Anniversary Collection by Hallmark, fashion fanatics and Barbie doll buffs alike will be able to celebrate their own birthdays and other occasions, or give a very special gift in trend-setting Barbie style.

For more information or to find the nearest participating retailer, call 1-800-HALLMARK or visit - NU

A Guide to Dolls

Doll guides are large books for doll collectors, used to help them tell one doll from another. They generally have large colour photos of each doll, together with price information. Thanks to the popularity of doll collecting, doll guides sell surprisingly well, even though they are often large, thick, expensive books. They are generally used mainly by professional collectors as tools for identification and valuation.

Because it would be pretty much impossible to fit every doll ever made into one book or even a series of books, each book tends to concentrate on a particular decade, or manufacturer, or even one doll (Barbie, for example).

Doll guides can be quite hard to find in shops (unless you live near a specialist doll shop), but they're easy to find on the web, particularly on A and eBay. If you get one used, it might not even be all that expensive, although you should expect to have to pay a lot for postage. Make sure you read reviews of any given book before you buy it, because they vary hugely in quality, and not all of them do what they say on the cover very well at all.

It is ironic that doll guides are easiest to buy on the web, however, because it is also the web that is making them slowly obsolete. Even the best doll guides can't hope to even touch the sheer diversity of pictures and information that exists on the web in the doll collecting enthusiast community. There are websites out there that are at least as reliable as any of the books, and websites are usually more up-to-date in terms of price guidance.

The web works particularly well if you know which doll you have and just want to know which type it is. Even if you know nothing about the doll, however, and you can't find it in a database, it's not hard to find doll collectors' forums (search for 'doll forum'). Once you're on a forum, you can post pictures and other enthusiasts will help you out – someone is bound to know the answer.

John Gibb is the owner of doll guides, For more information on dolls please check out

What To Look For When Shopping For Kid's Bedding

When choosing kids' bedding, your first step should be to consider your child's tastes. After all, a child's room is often an extension of her personality. Does your daughter like a particular color? Does she prefer a certain style? If you follow your child's lead, she will lead you to the perfect kids' bedding.

Kids' bedding is available in a variety of designs, from cartoon characters to outer space. When selecting a design you must consider longevity. While your daughter might love Strawberry Shortcake this week, you have to think about the future as well. If you don't mind replacing the bedding frequently, character bedding is fine; otherwise consider themes or patterns that can grow with your child.

Most children's books, television, and movie characters are available on kids' bedding (Barbie, Bratz, Gl Joe, Batman, Spiderman, Disney Princess, Lion King, Yu-Gi-Oh, Scooby Doo, Tom and Jerry, Mickey Mouse, Tweety, Bugs Bunny, Simpsons,etc. ). Before committing yourself to expensive character bedding, try to decide if your child's love of the character is here to stay or just a passing phase.

While a child might quickly outgrow her love of a popular television character, she is more likely to remain fond of flowers or clouds. Here is a partial list of popular themes for kids' bedding: teddy bears, nature, ocean, military, solar system, insects, fairies, flowers, games etc.

Kids' bedding is also available in an assortment of non-themed patterns. Patterns range from soft pastel flowers to wild neon abstracts. Popular patterns for kids' bedding include polka dots, hearts, checks, circles, cow prints, plaid, stripes, and abstract designs. A well-chosen pattern can last all the way through the teen years.

Most kids' bedding is sold in coordinating sets and includes fitted sheet, top sheet, bed ruffle, pillow shams, and comforter. Other sets might include a quilt or bed spread instead of a comforter. All three are used for the same purposes, but comforters are usually thicker. Selection will likely depend on personal preference and climate. Most stores also sell coordinating accessories, including shower curtains, wall hangings, waste baskets, and throw pillows.

Kids' bedding is widely available. Some toy stores also sell kids' bedding. If your child sleeps on a twin- or full-sized bed, you will find that kids' bedding is readily available. If, however, your child's bed is larger, you might have to special order the bedding or opt for patterns.

If you prefer to do your shopping online, there are a variety of websites selling kids' bedding. A search on any search engine will find thousands of outlets offering bedding. The following is a list of popular kids' bedding sites: Company Kids (offers a nice selection of kids' bedding, divided into a boys' and a girls' section; the site also sells furniture and accessories; they are a great source if you are looking for kids' designs that are not based on licensed characters), Bombay Kids (offers kids' bedding and furniture in a nice selection of themes and patterns; many items can be personalized), Olive Kids (is a fun site offering kids' bedding and furniture in themes such as dinosaurs, heroes, cowboys, and princesses).

Choosing a kid's bed can be a daunting task for parents because there are so many options in style and design from which to choose. When faced with the decision, considering other uses and future uses for the child's room, space limitations, safety, budget, and finally, your child's wants and needs should lead you to the perfect selection!

Learn about kids bedding before you buy.