I just got back from my "blind" neighbor's house and as she hugged me goodbye she said "oh Ann Marie are you putting the weight on". Well they say that when a person is missing one of their senses their other senses are more intact, obviously! Anyway, I have put on a lot of weight and have never lost weight the RIGHT way (if there even is a right way)...needless to say I was wondering if anyone would like to start a weight loss challenge. Even if you don't need to shed the weight, maybe just to get healthy and help out a Lil chub bub :) Let me know what you think.
"Strength comes is numbers"
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
**********SIMPLE RECIPE***********
BEER DIP
INGREDIENTS
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix (I find generic is less salty)
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1/3 cup beer (Any kind of lite beer. Non-alcoholic beer can also be used. )
(I use 3/4 of a can of beer)
DIRECTIONS
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and dressing mix. Stir in Cheddar cheese, and then beer. The mixture will appear mushy. Cover bowl, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, overnight if possible
**Serve with Wheat Thins or Pretzels**
INGREDIENTS
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix (I find generic is less salty)
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1/3 cup beer (Any kind of lite beer. Non-alcoholic beer can also be used. )
(I use 3/4 of a can of beer)
DIRECTIONS
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and dressing mix. Stir in Cheddar cheese, and then beer. The mixture will appear mushy. Cover bowl, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, overnight if possible
**Serve with Wheat Thins or Pretzels**
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!
I would just like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!
My thoughts are with Ian Pope's family. I couldn't imagine the pain felt after losing a child...and burying him the day after Christmas. Although I have never met them, I can't hold back my tears wondering what that poor family is going through.
My thoughts are with Ian Pope's family. I couldn't imagine the pain felt after losing a child...and burying him the day after Christmas. Although I have never met them, I can't hold back my tears wondering what that poor family is going through.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Struggling between family and work...
Many parents struggle with tensions between work and family. Parents say job demands are the #1 thing that makes parenting difficult, according to Search Institute surveys. Two-thirds of parents surveyed by Public Agenda, a national opinion research company, say they worry some or a lot about juggling the demands of work and family. And 50 percent of these parents say a more flexible work schedule would help them as parents, with low-income parents and single parents valuing flexibility even more. Furthermore, according to research by the Families and Work Institute, employees with flexibility in the workplace are more likely to be committed to helping their company succeed, plan to stay with their current employer, and feel satisfied with their jobs.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Are you feeling stressed over "holiday "traditions"...
Create your own traditions: Contrary to popular opinion, there are no rules for how you spend your holidays. So if old traditions bring up unhappy memories, start new ones. If you don’t have family, share the holidays with good friends. Don’t wait for them to include you; make them welcome in your home instead. If cooking a Christmas dinner feels like a drag, do brunch. If going to a synagogue or a church service dampens your spirits, have your own worship service outdoors, at home or wherever you wish.
My Dear Friends @ Sallie Mae
I just wanted to wish you all a wonderful Christmas! I miss you all so very much, to think this is the first Christmas in 9 years w/o you guys...I hope you all enjoy a wonderful holiday season!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Life is Short
My deepest condolences to my brother in law on the loss of his beloved brother, Paul. Paul was taken from this earth unexpectedly at a young age of 47. A handsome and well educated gentleman who offered this world a great deal of knowledge and character.
Often we hear the same message being told to us, especially by our older much wiser family and friends, life is short! How true this is, we MUST make the absolute best out of our every second on this earth. Smile more, laugh more, enjoy people...all different types of people. Learn from people, even the simplest of people can bring the most knowledge and insight to someone. Just remember my orphan friend, he brought more enlightenment to me than I've ever expected.
Holding grudges and being miserable is an awful and lonely way to go through life. Remember a time when you laughed so hard your belly hurt...now what exactly were you doing when that happened? who were you with? go back to that place...spend more time with the people that make you smile...life is short!
Often we hear the same message being told to us, especially by our older much wiser family and friends, life is short! How true this is, we MUST make the absolute best out of our every second on this earth. Smile more, laugh more, enjoy people...all different types of people. Learn from people, even the simplest of people can bring the most knowledge and insight to someone. Just remember my orphan friend, he brought more enlightenment to me than I've ever expected.
Holding grudges and being miserable is an awful and lonely way to go through life. Remember a time when you laughed so hard your belly hurt...now what exactly were you doing when that happened? who were you with? go back to that place...spend more time with the people that make you smile...life is short!
Kids and Strep Throat...
It’s a common bacterial infection kids mostly get during the winter, but untreated, strep can lead to joint problems or damage to the heart valves. That’s why all kids 2 and older with a sore throat should be screened, especially if they also have a fever, says Nora Esteban-Cruciani, MD, assistant director of the division of pediatric hospital medicine at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore in New York City. The rapid test can miss about 10% of cases, so negative results need to be checked by a throat culture.
If it is strep, antibiotics are crucial to prevent complications. To feel better, drink lots of liquids (but not very hot or acidic ones, which can irritate the throat), take ibuprofen and gargle with warm salt water.
If your child has five or more episodes a year, talk to her pediatrician or an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor about a tonsillectomy. “Kids with enlarged tonsils are more prone to infections because bacteria can easily lodge inside the tonsils,” says Dr. Esteban-Cruciani.
If it is strep, antibiotics are crucial to prevent complications. To feel better, drink lots of liquids (but not very hot or acidic ones, which can irritate the throat), take ibuprofen and gargle with warm salt water.
If your child has five or more episodes a year, talk to her pediatrician or an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor about a tonsillectomy. “Kids with enlarged tonsils are more prone to infections because bacteria can easily lodge inside the tonsils,” says Dr. Esteban-Cruciani.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Jury Convicts Mother in Baby Death Case
Another case of a selfish, insecure mom letting a scumbag come before her own child...
A jury in Luzerne County has found a mother guilty in connection with her infant's death.
Jurors returned guilty verdicts on both counts against Tiffany Simmons just before 8 p.m. Friday night. They found her guilty of involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment.
Simmons is scheduled to be sentenced next month.
Prosecutors and defense attorneys made their closing arguments late Friday afternoon after Simmons herself took the stand in her own defense.
A jury in Luzerne County found TiffanySimmons guilty of putting her infant son in danger, leading to his death.
The jury found the 26-year-old woman should not have allowed her three-month-old son, Xavier, around her boyfriend, Alan Leitzel.
Investigators said Simmons knew Leitzel was violent. He is charged with killing the baby by shaking and hitting him back in January of this year at Leitzel's home in West Hazleton.
Simmons told jurors she loved her son and life without him is a nightmare.
Simmons admitted she lied to Children and Youth workers and police, telling them she and Xavier were not around Leitzel.
Simmons signed an agreement with Children and Youth, promising to keep Xavier away from Leitzel.
She testified she thought Leitzel, "was a good guy. He loved my son, he cared for my son."
She went on to tell the court when Xavier died, "I was crying hysterically. I felt like it was a nightmare. I was shocked."
A defense attorney told jurors Simmons was a good mother, one who could not have known what Leitzel was capable of.
Prosecutors painted a different picture of Simmons, saying in closing arguments she was "cunning" and "wasn't crying" over her dead son but instead was "lying" to protect Alan Leitzel.
As for Alan Leitzel, his homicide trial is set for February. If convicted, he could face the death penalty.
A jury in Luzerne County has found a mother guilty in connection with her infant's death.
Jurors returned guilty verdicts on both counts against Tiffany Simmons just before 8 p.m. Friday night. They found her guilty of involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment.
Simmons is scheduled to be sentenced next month.
Prosecutors and defense attorneys made their closing arguments late Friday afternoon after Simmons herself took the stand in her own defense.
A jury in Luzerne County found TiffanySimmons guilty of putting her infant son in danger, leading to his death.
The jury found the 26-year-old woman should not have allowed her three-month-old son, Xavier, around her boyfriend, Alan Leitzel.
Investigators said Simmons knew Leitzel was violent. He is charged with killing the baby by shaking and hitting him back in January of this year at Leitzel's home in West Hazleton.
Simmons told jurors she loved her son and life without him is a nightmare.
Simmons admitted she lied to Children and Youth workers and police, telling them she and Xavier were not around Leitzel.
Simmons signed an agreement with Children and Youth, promising to keep Xavier away from Leitzel.
She testified she thought Leitzel, "was a good guy. He loved my son, he cared for my son."
She went on to tell the court when Xavier died, "I was crying hysterically. I felt like it was a nightmare. I was shocked."
A defense attorney told jurors Simmons was a good mother, one who could not have known what Leitzel was capable of.
Prosecutors painted a different picture of Simmons, saying in closing arguments she was "cunning" and "wasn't crying" over her dead son but instead was "lying" to protect Alan Leitzel.
As for Alan Leitzel, his homicide trial is set for February. If convicted, he could face the death penalty.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Christina had her baby...
Christina and John welcomed a little girl today @ 7:50pm, 6 lbs 12 ounces, ABIGAIL GRACE STERBA.
Congratulations to the Sterba's!
Congratulations to the Sterba's!
2 New members!!!
Hey we got 2 new members: Dee Dee~ and bobmc...WELCOME ABOARD!
Feel free to add a blog :)
Big A
Feel free to add a blog :)
Big A
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
What a DISGRACE!!!!!
This is one of the reasons I started "parenting for a purpose"...people like this!!!! What a JERK! Oh and I wonder where the mother was through all this???? and what type of sentence did she get??? A parents job is to PROTECT their children! 25 to 30 years, we'll see him out of jail and on probation in about 15 years...
Father Pleads Guilty to Daughter's Death
A man could spend 50 years in prison after pleading guilty Monday morning to murdering his young daughter and brutally assaulting his toddler son in Monroe County. Even after a surprise plea of guilty Mckinley Warren still insists he did not kill his daughter. He was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in prison. He pleaded guilty to the third -degree murder for the death of his two-year-old daughter, Jessica, in 2000, as well as aggravated assault for the 2007 beating of his three- year-old son, Isaiah. Relatives of Isaiah said justice was served. "He got what he deserved," said one. Warren was arrested in 2007, seven years after his daughter's death. In 2000, police said he hit the toddler so hard she died from the injuries but they couldn't prove it until he almost did it again in 2007, this time to his three-year old son who survived. Warren's defense attorney said the plea was in hopes of avoiding a longer sentence. "He indicated his desire to enter this plea and to have the matter put behind him. By entering the plea he avoids the possibility of a life sentence which was a strong possibility when you look at the evidence that was outlined in the courtroom," said defense attorney James Swetz. Prosecutors said it's an end to one of the more brutal cases of child abuse they have seen in Monroe County. "His motives and the way he expressed his ideas about the children were also very disturbing and I said that in court, calling the one boy a devil," said Assistant District Attorney Michael Mancuso. For the arresting officer, Captain Bill Parrish, then a lieutenant, it's a case he will never forget. "To see justice delayed is justice denied. I hope that is not the case with Jessica. It's taken us eight years to get to this point," Parrish said.
Father Pleads Guilty to Daughter's Death
A man could spend 50 years in prison after pleading guilty Monday morning to murdering his young daughter and brutally assaulting his toddler son in Monroe County. Even after a surprise plea of guilty Mckinley Warren still insists he did not kill his daughter. He was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in prison. He pleaded guilty to the third -degree murder for the death of his two-year-old daughter, Jessica, in 2000, as well as aggravated assault for the 2007 beating of his three- year-old son, Isaiah. Relatives of Isaiah said justice was served. "He got what he deserved," said one. Warren was arrested in 2007, seven years after his daughter's death. In 2000, police said he hit the toddler so hard she died from the injuries but they couldn't prove it until he almost did it again in 2007, this time to his three-year old son who survived. Warren's defense attorney said the plea was in hopes of avoiding a longer sentence. "He indicated his desire to enter this plea and to have the matter put behind him. By entering the plea he avoids the possibility of a life sentence which was a strong possibility when you look at the evidence that was outlined in the courtroom," said defense attorney James Swetz. Prosecutors said it's an end to one of the more brutal cases of child abuse they have seen in Monroe County. "His motives and the way he expressed his ideas about the children were also very disturbing and I said that in court, calling the one boy a devil," said Assistant District Attorney Michael Mancuso. For the arresting officer, Captain Bill Parrish, then a lieutenant, it's a case he will never forget. "To see justice delayed is justice denied. I hope that is not the case with Jessica. It's taken us eight years to get to this point," Parrish said.
THANKS AGAIN!
Just wanted to say THANKS! I got over 40 "individual" clicks on my blog!!!!! I appreciate it!!! Let's keep this blog going :)
Saturday, December 6, 2008
WE NEED COMMENTS AND IDEAS!!!!
Please e-mail me your e-mail address so I can invite you to this blog, knovakowski@verizon.net. All you need to do is accept the invite and create a username and password for Google. There are NO OBLIGATIONS, honestly...ask Theresa and Walker13, they joined and I'm sure their glad they did.
*****Big surprises are coming, the person who can submit the most e-mail addresses and get the most people to join can get some "big surprises" (were not talking TV's or anything but maybe a gift card and some goodies)*****
some upcoming events will be:
**"The Best Birthday Party on a Budget" challenge
**"The Christmas Toy Storage" challenge
**"The Best Superbowl Dip" challenge
*****Big surprises are coming, the person who can submit the most e-mail addresses and get the most people to join can get some "big surprises" (were not talking TV's or anything but maybe a gift card and some goodies)*****
some upcoming events will be:
**"The Best Birthday Party on a Budget" challenge
**"The Christmas Toy Storage" challenge
**"The Best Superbowl Dip" challenge
Worst Toy List
NOMINEES FOR THE “10 WORST TOYS” LIST
ANIMAL ALLEY PURSE PET
Price: $4.98
Manufacturer or Distributor: Geoffrey Inc. /Toys R Us
Purchased: Toys R Us
Age Recommendation: "0+"
Warnings: "CAUTION: Remove all tags, twist ties and plastic loops before giving to a child" (on attached tag)
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR INGESTION/ASPIRATION INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! This soft, colorful pony is sold for infants. The toy has long, fiber-like hair that is not adequately rooted and is easily removable, presenting the potential for ingestion or aspiration injuries. This hazard is not referenced anywhere on the product or product tags.
NINJA BATTLE GEAR - MICHELANGELO
Price: $9.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Playmates Toys, Inc.
Purchasesd: Target
Age Recommendation: "Ages 4 & Up"
Warnings: "WARNING: Choking Hazard-Contains small part, not suitable for children under 3 years"
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR BLUNT IMPACT INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! 4-year-old children are encouraged to play the part of a Ninja, while wielding various weapons. One such weapon is Michelangelo's “Nunchaku", which the manufacturer describes as a "Kick-butt signature weapon!" consisting of two long plastic handles connected by a plastic chain. Remarkably, there are no accompanying cautions or warnings relating to potential impact injuries.
WALK’N SOUNDS DIGGER THE DOG
Price: $9.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Hasbro/ Playskool
Purchased: Kmart
Age Recommendation: "Over 12 MONTHS"
Warnings: Cautions regarding batteries (on packaging)
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR STRANGULATION / ENTANGLEMENT INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! Despite the industry’s voluntary standard requiring strings on playpen or crib toys to be less than 12” in length, some manufacturers continue to market toys such as this “Digger The Dog” pull toy, with a cord measuring approximately 26 inches. Sold to be “your child’s best friend!”, it is intended for “infants” and thus, is a prime candidate for cribs and playpens.
PUCCI PUPPIES - MY OWN PUPPY HOUSE GOLDEN RETRIEVER
Price: $14.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Battat, Incorporated
Purchased: Target
Age Recommendation: “2 years +”
Warnings: None
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR CHOKING INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! Oral age children as young as 2 years old are encouraged to play with this plush, golden retriever puppy, sold with a dog house and accessories including a bone, cookie, chew toy and food bowl. These accessories are small parts that could easily be ingested by a child, presenting the potential for serious choking injuries.
MEADOW MYSTERY PLAY-A-SOUND BOOK WITH A CUDDLY POOH
Price: $9.97
Manufacturer or Distributor: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
Purchased: Walmart
Age Recommendation: “18 months+” (box) and “RECOMMENDED FOR ALL AGE GROUPS”
Warnings: CAUTION: Before giving to a child, please cut, remove, and discard all plastic attachments (on package)
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR CHOKING INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! This soft Winnie The Pooh doll is packaged and sold with a "Meadow Mystery" book. Pooh’s cloth mask, once removed, poses the potential for choking injuries. Despite the wording on the packaging and the book that the product has been safety tested for children “18 months+”, the tag attached to the plush toy indicates that it is "[r]ecommended for all age groups".
INFLATABLE GIGA BALL
Price: $49.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Kenscott, Ltd.
Purchased: Target
Age Recommendation: "Ages 4+"
Warnings: “ "WARNING: DO NOT USE ON HILLS AND IN WATER”(on box), and other warnings on toy and package insert.
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR IMPACT AND OTHER SERIOUS INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! Children as young as 4 years old are encouraged to “crawl inside” this colorful inflatable ball, in order to “spin, tumble, [and] bounce”. The box warns against using the ball on hills or near water, and notes that parental supervision is “required”. However, the toy itself indicates that adult supervision is only "recommended", and the package insert further warns the ball is "[n]ot for pool side use or as a flotation device".
SPIDER-MAN ADJUSTABLE TOY SKATES
Price: $19.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Street Flyers, LLC
Purchased: Target
Age Recommendation: “Ages 3 To 6”
Warnings: "HELMETS, WRIST GUARDS, KNEE PADS AND ELBOW PADS SHOULD BE WORN WHILE SKATING", and other warnings
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR WRIST AND OTHER IMPACT INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! The packaging for these adjustable toy skates has numerous warnings, including the requirement that children wear helmets, wrist guards, knee pads and elbow pads while skating. Inexplicably, the safety gear sold with the toy includes only knee and elbow pads.
SPORTSMAN SHOTGUN
Price: $29.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Parris Manufacturing Company
Purchased: Netlink Enterprises, Inc. (online)
Age Recommendation: “Not recommended for children under 3 years of age” and “AGE 14+”
Warnings: “Never aim or shoot at any animal”; “Do not aim at eyes or face”; and other warnings
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR EYE INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! This realistic looking weapon is sold online as a “toy” for use by children. Once the rubber bullets are loaded into the shotgun’s magazine, and the ammunition is pushed into the gun’s chamber, “[y]ou are now ready to shoot”. This weapon is not a toy and should not be sold for use by children.
EXTREME SPIRAL COPTERS
Price: $3.00
Manufacturer or Distributor: Toysmith Group
Purchased: Belmont Toys
Age Recommendation: "Ages 5 & Up"
Warnings: "CAUTION: DO NOT SHOOT AT PEOPLE OR ANIMALS”, and other cautions and warnings.
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR EYE INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! These copters are described by the manufacturer as having “awesome spiral action!” Young children are encouraged to launch the projectile into the air with the provided elastic band, in a fashion similar to a slingshot. Cautions include: “DO NOT SUBSTITUTE THE SUPPLIED COPTER WITH ANY OTHER PROJECTILE”, and “DO NOT AIM AT EYES OR FACE”.
GO GO MINIS PULLBACK VEHICLE
Price: $4.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Kid Galaxy, Inc.
Purchased: Calendar Club Go! Toys & Games
Age Recommendation: :“Ages 3+” (on display box only)
Warnings: “WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD-Small Parts. Not For Children under 3-yrs on display package only
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR CHOKING INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! These miniature fire trucks, garbage trucks and school buses are sold individually at the checkout counter in a display box. The rear tires of these vehicles are removeable, presenting the potential for a serious choking injury for oral age children. Incredibly, the “choking hazard” warning appears only on the display box, and not on the individual toys.
ANIMAL ALLEY PURSE PET
Price: $4.98
Manufacturer or Distributor: Geoffrey Inc. /Toys R Us
Purchased: Toys R Us
Age Recommendation: "0+"
Warnings: "CAUTION: Remove all tags, twist ties and plastic loops before giving to a child" (on attached tag)
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR INGESTION/ASPIRATION INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! This soft, colorful pony is sold for infants. The toy has long, fiber-like hair that is not adequately rooted and is easily removable, presenting the potential for ingestion or aspiration injuries. This hazard is not referenced anywhere on the product or product tags.
NINJA BATTLE GEAR - MICHELANGELO
Price: $9.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Playmates Toys, Inc.
Purchasesd: Target
Age Recommendation: "Ages 4 & Up"
Warnings: "WARNING: Choking Hazard-Contains small part, not suitable for children under 3 years"
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR BLUNT IMPACT INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! 4-year-old children are encouraged to play the part of a Ninja, while wielding various weapons. One such weapon is Michelangelo's “Nunchaku", which the manufacturer describes as a "Kick-butt signature weapon!" consisting of two long plastic handles connected by a plastic chain. Remarkably, there are no accompanying cautions or warnings relating to potential impact injuries.
WALK’N SOUNDS DIGGER THE DOG
Price: $9.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Hasbro/ Playskool
Purchased: Kmart
Age Recommendation: "Over 12 MONTHS"
Warnings: Cautions regarding batteries (on packaging)
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR STRANGULATION / ENTANGLEMENT INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! Despite the industry’s voluntary standard requiring strings on playpen or crib toys to be less than 12” in length, some manufacturers continue to market toys such as this “Digger The Dog” pull toy, with a cord measuring approximately 26 inches. Sold to be “your child’s best friend!”, it is intended for “infants” and thus, is a prime candidate for cribs and playpens.
PUCCI PUPPIES - MY OWN PUPPY HOUSE GOLDEN RETRIEVER
Price: $14.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Battat, Incorporated
Purchased: Target
Age Recommendation: “2 years +”
Warnings: None
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR CHOKING INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! Oral age children as young as 2 years old are encouraged to play with this plush, golden retriever puppy, sold with a dog house and accessories including a bone, cookie, chew toy and food bowl. These accessories are small parts that could easily be ingested by a child, presenting the potential for serious choking injuries.
MEADOW MYSTERY PLAY-A-SOUND BOOK WITH A CUDDLY POOH
Price: $9.97
Manufacturer or Distributor: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
Purchased: Walmart
Age Recommendation: “18 months+” (box) and “RECOMMENDED FOR ALL AGE GROUPS”
Warnings: CAUTION: Before giving to a child, please cut, remove, and discard all plastic attachments (on package)
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR CHOKING INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! This soft Winnie The Pooh doll is packaged and sold with a "Meadow Mystery" book. Pooh’s cloth mask, once removed, poses the potential for choking injuries. Despite the wording on the packaging and the book that the product has been safety tested for children “18 months+”, the tag attached to the plush toy indicates that it is "[r]ecommended for all age groups".
INFLATABLE GIGA BALL
Price: $49.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Kenscott, Ltd.
Purchased: Target
Age Recommendation: "Ages 4+"
Warnings: “ "WARNING: DO NOT USE ON HILLS AND IN WATER”(on box), and other warnings on toy and package insert.
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR IMPACT AND OTHER SERIOUS INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! Children as young as 4 years old are encouraged to “crawl inside” this colorful inflatable ball, in order to “spin, tumble, [and] bounce”. The box warns against using the ball on hills or near water, and notes that parental supervision is “required”. However, the toy itself indicates that adult supervision is only "recommended", and the package insert further warns the ball is "[n]ot for pool side use or as a flotation device".
SPIDER-MAN ADJUSTABLE TOY SKATES
Price: $19.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Street Flyers, LLC
Purchased: Target
Age Recommendation: “Ages 3 To 6”
Warnings: "HELMETS, WRIST GUARDS, KNEE PADS AND ELBOW PADS SHOULD BE WORN WHILE SKATING", and other warnings
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR WRIST AND OTHER IMPACT INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! The packaging for these adjustable toy skates has numerous warnings, including the requirement that children wear helmets, wrist guards, knee pads and elbow pads while skating. Inexplicably, the safety gear sold with the toy includes only knee and elbow pads.
SPORTSMAN SHOTGUN
Price: $29.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Parris Manufacturing Company
Purchased: Netlink Enterprises, Inc. (online)
Age Recommendation: “Not recommended for children under 3 years of age” and “AGE 14+”
Warnings: “Never aim or shoot at any animal”; “Do not aim at eyes or face”; and other warnings
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR EYE INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! This realistic looking weapon is sold online as a “toy” for use by children. Once the rubber bullets are loaded into the shotgun’s magazine, and the ammunition is pushed into the gun’s chamber, “[y]ou are now ready to shoot”. This weapon is not a toy and should not be sold for use by children.
EXTREME SPIRAL COPTERS
Price: $3.00
Manufacturer or Distributor: Toysmith Group
Purchased: Belmont Toys
Age Recommendation: "Ages 5 & Up"
Warnings: "CAUTION: DO NOT SHOOT AT PEOPLE OR ANIMALS”, and other cautions and warnings.
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR EYE INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! These copters are described by the manufacturer as having “awesome spiral action!” Young children are encouraged to launch the projectile into the air with the provided elastic band, in a fashion similar to a slingshot. Cautions include: “DO NOT SUBSTITUTE THE SUPPLIED COPTER WITH ANY OTHER PROJECTILE”, and “DO NOT AIM AT EYES OR FACE”.
GO GO MINIS PULLBACK VEHICLE
Price: $4.99
Manufacturer or Distributor: Kid Galaxy, Inc.
Purchased: Calendar Club Go! Toys & Games
Age Recommendation: :“Ages 3+” (on display box only)
Warnings: “WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD-Small Parts. Not For Children under 3-yrs on display package only
HAZARD: POTENTIAL FOR CHOKING INJURIES!
W.A.T.C.H. OUT! These miniature fire trucks, garbage trucks and school buses are sold individually at the checkout counter in a display box. The rear tires of these vehicles are removeable, presenting the potential for a serious choking injury for oral age children. Incredibly, the “choking hazard” warning appears only on the display box, and not on the individual toys.
Friday, December 5, 2008
See my "Real Story" about...
an orphan who changed my life...
Go down a few blogs (after the Oreo Truffles) and check out my most inspirational story ever.
Go down a few blogs (after the Oreo Truffles) and check out my most inspirational story ever.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Thanks and New Members Welcome
A thank you to my 2 recent authors Theresa and Walker13 :) Please feel free to post anything!
Also, if anyone knows of someone who they think would be interested in "bloggin" with us, please e-mail me their e-mail address and I will send them a blogger invite.
My e-mail address is knovakowski@verizon .net
I do hope to make this blog a success and look forward to having many different authors on this blog.
Thanks and let's get this blog family started!!!!!!
Also, if anyone knows of someone who they think would be interested in "bloggin" with us, please e-mail me their e-mail address and I will send them a blogger invite.
My e-mail address is knovakowski@verizon .net
I do hope to make this blog a success and look forward to having many different authors on this blog.
Thanks and let's get this blog family started!!!!!!
Easy OREO Truffles
What you need:
1 pkg. (1 lb. 2 oz.) OREO Cookies, finely crushed, divided
1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
2 pkg. (8 squares each) BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate, melted
Directions:
MIX 3 cups of the cookie crumbs and the cream cheese until well blended. Shape into 42 (1-inch) balls.
DIP balls in melted chocolate; place on waxed paper-covered baking sheet. (Any leftover melted chocolate can be stored in tightly covered container at room temperature and saved for another use.) Sprinkle with remaining cookie crumbs.
REFRIGERATE 1 hour or until firm. Store any leftover truffles in tightly covered container in refrigerator.
1 pkg. (1 lb. 2 oz.) OREO Cookies, finely crushed, divided
1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
2 pkg. (8 squares each) BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate, melted
Directions:
MIX 3 cups of the cookie crumbs and the cream cheese until well blended. Shape into 42 (1-inch) balls.
DIP balls in melted chocolate; place on waxed paper-covered baking sheet. (Any leftover melted chocolate can be stored in tightly covered container at room temperature and saved for another use.) Sprinkle with remaining cookie crumbs.
REFRIGERATE 1 hour or until firm. Store any leftover truffles in tightly covered container in refrigerator.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
A real experience you MUST read. (You will need tissues)
This is an absolute true story that happened to me just yesterday. Prepare to grab your box of Kleenex (hear that Aunt Bev).
It was aroound 8:00 and I was decorating my front bay window for Christmas, I noticed a boy with what appeared to be a book bag. I saw a woman in a white car stop and chat with the boy for a little while and then she drove away. He looked around, standing close to the edge of the road, I feared he would be hit by a car. I stared and watched wondering what is this boy doing. He started yelling to me "lady please help me, please lady". With slight hesitation I ran to the front door and opened it slowly.
"What's wrong honey?" "I need a ride home to Wilkes Barre he said shivering in the 20 degree weather. "Wilkes Barre? you're in Pittston?", where are your parents and where are you coming from? After several minutes of listening to his stories I realized this boy has no home. He told me he was 11 years old (thats right, just 11) and that he was taken away from his parents in New York. He had a 7 year old brother and a little sister (didn't get her age), they lived with his Godmother in Wilkes Barre and he wanted to live there too. He ran away from a local orphanage because the other kids didn't like him and he missed his brother and sister. I asked "how long have you lived at this orphanage?" (I am keeping the name private to respect my little friend's privacy). He told me a few weeks. I sat him down on my front stpes and let him pour his little heart out.
He was so cold and so scared. He was walking around for nearly 4 hours and just wanted to see his brother and sister. I explained to him how special he was and that I only knew him for a short time and had a love for him already. He looked at me with disbelief and said "lady will come work where I live, you're very nice." That says to me he just needs someone to believe in him and I did, I told him how much I believed in him. I explained that just because he was taken away from his parents didn't mean he was the bad one...I told him his situation was not his fault and he could change it. I told him to stay where he was at and believe that good things can and will happen. After moments of talking and listening I told him I had to call and he had to go back to the orphanage. He kept asking over and over, "am I going to jail?" and I said no honey I promise you'll be ok.
The orphanage was closed and an anwering service was all I kept getting, I explained I had to call the cops but assured him that cops are good people and they don't only take bad guys but help people in bad situations too. I went in the house and called 911 and explained he was a good kid who was just scared and sad. They asked if he was a little black boy from the orphanage and I said yes he is, they knew he was ok and were on their way. As they drove up the street I said "look honey, they don't even have their lights and sirens on, your not introuble" , and we both chuckled. I looked at him and said "are you scared?" and he said "yes", I knew I had to let this cop know this boy is not a criminal and he is only 11.
As the cop (actually a state trooper) pulled over he said "boy from the orphanage", I said yes, this is Shamar (fake name), and he is a good kid who is confused and scared. I put my hand on Shamar's shoulder, gave it a squeeze, and said "I believe in you and you will make something of yourself, stay on the right path and I know you'll be ok, believe in yourself Shamar!" I walked to my front door with a lump in my throat and a heaviness about me and as I went to turn the handle the officer yelled, "Maam, thanks for taking care of him, he'll be ok" and I said "it was my pleasure and I know he'll be ok". I closed the door and that was it, holy waterworks, I cried for over an hour.
To think it all started putting Christmas decorations in a window and meeting a boy who has no idea who he is even spending Christmas with. I called the orphanage today, and after being told they don't take volunteers, I pleaded and begged explaining I am torn between Nursing and Social work and that I really wanted to see if I could handle it...after begging and begging and explaining I have all the requirements (child abuse clearance, more than half my credits for a sociology degree, and a heart filled with love), I have an appointment Tuesday the 16th.
To think this little boy who thinks he means nothing may be the reason I make one of the biggest decisions of my life...He's going to make it, I know he is :)
It was aroound 8:00 and I was decorating my front bay window for Christmas, I noticed a boy with what appeared to be a book bag. I saw a woman in a white car stop and chat with the boy for a little while and then she drove away. He looked around, standing close to the edge of the road, I feared he would be hit by a car. I stared and watched wondering what is this boy doing. He started yelling to me "lady please help me, please lady". With slight hesitation I ran to the front door and opened it slowly.
"What's wrong honey?" "I need a ride home to Wilkes Barre he said shivering in the 20 degree weather. "Wilkes Barre? you're in Pittston?", where are your parents and where are you coming from? After several minutes of listening to his stories I realized this boy has no home. He told me he was 11 years old (thats right, just 11) and that he was taken away from his parents in New York. He had a 7 year old brother and a little sister (didn't get her age), they lived with his Godmother in Wilkes Barre and he wanted to live there too. He ran away from a local orphanage because the other kids didn't like him and he missed his brother and sister. I asked "how long have you lived at this orphanage?" (I am keeping the name private to respect my little friend's privacy). He told me a few weeks. I sat him down on my front stpes and let him pour his little heart out.
He was so cold and so scared. He was walking around for nearly 4 hours and just wanted to see his brother and sister. I explained to him how special he was and that I only knew him for a short time and had a love for him already. He looked at me with disbelief and said "lady will come work where I live, you're very nice." That says to me he just needs someone to believe in him and I did, I told him how much I believed in him. I explained that just because he was taken away from his parents didn't mean he was the bad one...I told him his situation was not his fault and he could change it. I told him to stay where he was at and believe that good things can and will happen. After moments of talking and listening I told him I had to call and he had to go back to the orphanage. He kept asking over and over, "am I going to jail?" and I said no honey I promise you'll be ok.
The orphanage was closed and an anwering service was all I kept getting, I explained I had to call the cops but assured him that cops are good people and they don't only take bad guys but help people in bad situations too. I went in the house and called 911 and explained he was a good kid who was just scared and sad. They asked if he was a little black boy from the orphanage and I said yes he is, they knew he was ok and were on their way. As they drove up the street I said "look honey, they don't even have their lights and sirens on, your not introuble" , and we both chuckled. I looked at him and said "are you scared?" and he said "yes", I knew I had to let this cop know this boy is not a criminal and he is only 11.
As the cop (actually a state trooper) pulled over he said "boy from the orphanage", I said yes, this is Shamar (fake name), and he is a good kid who is confused and scared. I put my hand on Shamar's shoulder, gave it a squeeze, and said "I believe in you and you will make something of yourself, stay on the right path and I know you'll be ok, believe in yourself Shamar!" I walked to my front door with a lump in my throat and a heaviness about me and as I went to turn the handle the officer yelled, "Maam, thanks for taking care of him, he'll be ok" and I said "it was my pleasure and I know he'll be ok". I closed the door and that was it, holy waterworks, I cried for over an hour.
To think it all started putting Christmas decorations in a window and meeting a boy who has no idea who he is even spending Christmas with. I called the orphanage today, and after being told they don't take volunteers, I pleaded and begged explaining I am torn between Nursing and Social work and that I really wanted to see if I could handle it...after begging and begging and explaining I have all the requirements (child abuse clearance, more than half my credits for a sociology degree, and a heart filled with love), I have an appointment Tuesday the 16th.
To think this little boy who thinks he means nothing may be the reason I make one of the biggest decisions of my life...He's going to make it, I know he is :)
Monday, December 1, 2008
Top 10 Christmas Gifts for Kids
Christmas is a season of giving. But sometimes picking the perfect gift can be such a difficult decision, especially when it comes to shopping for the children on your list. It can be hard to figure out what toys kids will enjoy. So take the guesswork out of your Christmas shopping this year and consider these Top Ten Christmas Gifts for Kids this holiday season.
1. Fur Real Friends Biscuit My Lovin Pup. This interactive toy is the perfect gift for any pet loving child. This life-sized dog can obey commands and even wag its tail, which gives kids all the benefits of owning a dog without any of the hassle.
2. Kidizoom Digital Camera Pink from Vtech. For the tech oriented little girl in your life, consider the Kidizoom Digital Camera. Not only will she look stylish sporting this pink camera, but she can take real photos and video as well. Vtech has designed all version of their Kidizoom Camera to fit in small hands and be resilient enough to survive in a child's care. This camera is a great idea for kids who want to take pictures but still are a little too young to handle more expensive cameras.
3. Bakugan Battle Arena. This Japanese style game features both collectible cards and figures which opponents can use to battle one another. This game of skill has players rolling marbles on a magnetic board to determine which figure will go into battle for them. Once two players have done this, the battles can ensue, leading to hours of fun.
4. Transformers Movie Leader Optimus Prime. Based on the blockbuster movie, the Transformers Movie Leader Optimus Prime is a great gift for a young sci-fi fan. This toy, which features both light and sound, transforms from a robot to a well-concealed vehicle with a partially automated transformation process that must be seen to be believed.
4. LEGO Mindstorms NXT. This LEGO toy is a fantastic gift for a child who loves to build. The LEGO Minstorms NXT comes with easy to follow instructions that help create a robot complete with sensors that can open the door to the imagination. This is a gift that keeps on giving with hours of discovery, entertainment, and learning to be had.
6. Hannah Montana Malibu Beach House. There is no show popular than Hannah Montana, which makes this Malibu Beach House a great gift to give this holiday season. Designed after the sets of the hit show, the Malibu Beach House is the perfect accessory for the Hannah Montana doll collection and will light up any fan's face on Christmas morning.
7. Blokus Classic. This award winning game is fun for the whole family this holiday season. Designed for two to four players, each time Blokus Classic is distinctive, keeping players guessing and interested. This colorful game encourages logic and strategy and should be a must-have on every Christmas list this year.
8. EyeClops Night Vision Infrared Stealth Goggles. These goggles offer hours of adventure for kids of all ages. With real infrared technology, the EyeClops Night Vision Stealth Goggles allow users to see up to fifty feet in the dark, which can open up the night to hours of nighttime entertainment.
9. LeapFrong Learn and Groove Musical Table. For the younger children on your shopping list this year, be sure to check out this Learn and Groove Musical Table. Designed for children ages six months to three years, this table can help develop the skills young children need. With a wide selection of music and a range of actions to be performed on the table top, babies will love the Learn and Groove Musical Table.
10. Speed Racer Sky Jump Track Set. This Track Set features all the thrills of the Speed Racer movie in your own home. On this set, the cars can complete spectacular leaps and crashes, sure to thrill children of all ages.
1. Fur Real Friends Biscuit My Lovin Pup. This interactive toy is the perfect gift for any pet loving child. This life-sized dog can obey commands and even wag its tail, which gives kids all the benefits of owning a dog without any of the hassle.
2. Kidizoom Digital Camera Pink from Vtech. For the tech oriented little girl in your life, consider the Kidizoom Digital Camera. Not only will she look stylish sporting this pink camera, but she can take real photos and video as well. Vtech has designed all version of their Kidizoom Camera to fit in small hands and be resilient enough to survive in a child's care. This camera is a great idea for kids who want to take pictures but still are a little too young to handle more expensive cameras.
3. Bakugan Battle Arena. This Japanese style game features both collectible cards and figures which opponents can use to battle one another. This game of skill has players rolling marbles on a magnetic board to determine which figure will go into battle for them. Once two players have done this, the battles can ensue, leading to hours of fun.
4. Transformers Movie Leader Optimus Prime. Based on the blockbuster movie, the Transformers Movie Leader Optimus Prime is a great gift for a young sci-fi fan. This toy, which features both light and sound, transforms from a robot to a well-concealed vehicle with a partially automated transformation process that must be seen to be believed.
4. LEGO Mindstorms NXT. This LEGO toy is a fantastic gift for a child who loves to build. The LEGO Minstorms NXT comes with easy to follow instructions that help create a robot complete with sensors that can open the door to the imagination. This is a gift that keeps on giving with hours of discovery, entertainment, and learning to be had.
6. Hannah Montana Malibu Beach House. There is no show popular than Hannah Montana, which makes this Malibu Beach House a great gift to give this holiday season. Designed after the sets of the hit show, the Malibu Beach House is the perfect accessory for the Hannah Montana doll collection and will light up any fan's face on Christmas morning.
7. Blokus Classic. This award winning game is fun for the whole family this holiday season. Designed for two to four players, each time Blokus Classic is distinctive, keeping players guessing and interested. This colorful game encourages logic and strategy and should be a must-have on every Christmas list this year.
8. EyeClops Night Vision Infrared Stealth Goggles. These goggles offer hours of adventure for kids of all ages. With real infrared technology, the EyeClops Night Vision Stealth Goggles allow users to see up to fifty feet in the dark, which can open up the night to hours of nighttime entertainment.
9. LeapFrong Learn and Groove Musical Table. For the younger children on your shopping list this year, be sure to check out this Learn and Groove Musical Table. Designed for children ages six months to three years, this table can help develop the skills young children need. With a wide selection of music and a range of actions to be performed on the table top, babies will love the Learn and Groove Musical Table.
10. Speed Racer Sky Jump Track Set. This Track Set features all the thrills of the Speed Racer movie in your own home. On this set, the cars can complete spectacular leaps and crashes, sure to thrill children of all ages.
Making Your Own Christmas Cards
Ever wonder what to do with all the Christmas cards you've received through the years (if your like me and save them) well even if you don't save them there are several other items that can be used for this idea:
You can use old Christmas cards, magazines, stickers, excess wrapping paper or even advertisements from your newspaper. Buy Kodak "greeting card" paper, which is thicker and more durable than regular paper, and let your children cut out Christmas images to decorate the cards. You can even get crafty and use personal pictures. This is a great tradition to start with your children and I guarantee the card will mean a lot more to whomever receives it :)
You can use old Christmas cards, magazines, stickers, excess wrapping paper or even advertisements from your newspaper. Buy Kodak "greeting card" paper, which is thicker and more durable than regular paper, and let your children cut out Christmas images to decorate the cards. You can even get crafty and use personal pictures. This is a great tradition to start with your children and I guarantee the card will mean a lot more to whomever receives it :)
Hi Everyone!
My name is Ann Marie and I am starting this blog for all parents,grandparents, and caretakers. My goal is to make this a place of useful information, funny stories, recipes, shopping deals, and a place for us parents,grandparents, and caretakers to seek advice and make friends!
Have a great day and look forward to making friends and sharing memories:)
Ann Marie
My name is Ann Marie and I am starting this blog for all parents,grandparents, and caretakers. My goal is to make this a place of useful information, funny stories, recipes, shopping deals, and a place for us parents,grandparents, and caretakers to seek advice and make friends!
Have a great day and look forward to making friends and sharing memories:)
Ann Marie
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