By Victor Epand
Gone are the days when all of the dolls in the store had very light skin and blond hair. These days, toys come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. Cultural relevance is important during play time, as play time is a prelude to adult life. It is important for children to be exposed to the history of their own culture, and play with toys that "look like them." They should not, however, be limited to such toys.
A multi-cultural doll and toy experience is balanced and healthy. One poor extreme is to expose the child only to dolls from a single culture. If they only see dolls and toys that look like them, they will find it difficult to accept others that look different. They won't mean to distance themselves, but children are more likely to gravitate towards what they know. The other poor extreme is to allow them to play with toys that look totally different from them, without any that do look like them. Self-esteem can be negatively affected that way, especially in young girls.
Let your little girls and boys play with dolls and action figures that represent the multi-cultural world that they live in. Dolls collections like American Girl, Barbie, Bratz, and Cabbage Patch Kids come in many different cultural varieties. There is no reason to stick to just one cultural background when it comes to dolls, action figures, toys, or friends.
Mixing the culture of your child's toys can prepare the for the mix of cultures in society. Even if they don't see all of the different cultures everyday at school, they might notice when they get out into the real world. America is an amazing blend of cultures, religious backgrounds and ethnicities. There are many things to learn about each one, and appearance is just the start. The sooner your child learns that people are unique and special in their own way, the better. Children can learn about other cultures as well as their own.
Keep an open mind about the cultural aspects of the toys that your children play with. Talk to them about race and religion so they are aware and tolerant of others that are not totally like them. Remember that everyone is a human being who deserves equal respect. Play time is a learning experience, so give them the tools that they need to learn as much as they can about the world from the beginning.
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 ethnic toys, stuffed animals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Victor_Epand
10/18/2008
Iron Man Super Deluxe Adult Halloween Costume For the Super Hero in You
By Ira Borden
Just because you're an adult doesn't mean that you can't dress up this Halloween. After all, there are a variety of great costume choices out there that are great for adults. If you're a guy looking for a really "manly" costume choice, then you may want to consider going with the Iron Man Super Deluxe Adult costume this year. It's the adult version of the Iron Man costume and you'll definitely look strong and manly in this costume. In this costume, you'll be sure to have a fun time this Halloween, and you may even feel like a kid again.
A Bit About Iron Man
In the movie, it was Anthony Start who actually was the one who actually created this costume. After his parents died, he would go on to acquire Start Enterprises when he was only 21. He was wounded in a war, and after this he decided to build a suit that was well armored to keep him from getting killed, which was the Iron Man Costume. He depended on his suit that he created for all his super powers. When wearing the suit he was able to fly around, he could connect to many different systems of communication, and can even shoot out energy blasts from his hands when he is wearing the costume.
Great for Dressing Up to Match as Father and Son
If you happen to have a son who is really into Iron Man, you may find that he wants his own Iron Man costume. Well, with the Iron Man Super Deluxe Adult costume, you can dress up as Iron Man too. Then you'll be able to match as father and son, which can be a lot of fun on Halloween. You can enjoy going out trick-or-treating together and everyone will feel like they are seeing double. No doubt your son will enjoy dressing up together with you.
Impress Everyone at the Halloween Party
Going to a Halloween party and you want to impress everyone with a macho costume? Well, this is the costume to get if you want to do this. With the super hero costume, you'll be looking great and all the ladies love a man who is a super hero with super powers. So, if you are really wanting to make a great impression at the party you're attending this Halloween, consider going with the Iron Man Super Deluxe Adult costume. You'll definitely make a great impression.
http://www.squidoo.com/iron-man-super-deluxe-adult-costume
Find the largest selection at the best prices for Iron Man Halloween Costumes. Super Heroes aren't born, their built!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ira_Borden
Just because you're an adult doesn't mean that you can't dress up this Halloween. After all, there are a variety of great costume choices out there that are great for adults. If you're a guy looking for a really "manly" costume choice, then you may want to consider going with the Iron Man Super Deluxe Adult costume this year. It's the adult version of the Iron Man costume and you'll definitely look strong and manly in this costume. In this costume, you'll be sure to have a fun time this Halloween, and you may even feel like a kid again.
A Bit About Iron Man
In the movie, it was Anthony Start who actually was the one who actually created this costume. After his parents died, he would go on to acquire Start Enterprises when he was only 21. He was wounded in a war, and after this he decided to build a suit that was well armored to keep him from getting killed, which was the Iron Man Costume. He depended on his suit that he created for all his super powers. When wearing the suit he was able to fly around, he could connect to many different systems of communication, and can even shoot out energy blasts from his hands when he is wearing the costume.
Great for Dressing Up to Match as Father and Son
If you happen to have a son who is really into Iron Man, you may find that he wants his own Iron Man costume. Well, with the Iron Man Super Deluxe Adult costume, you can dress up as Iron Man too. Then you'll be able to match as father and son, which can be a lot of fun on Halloween. You can enjoy going out trick-or-treating together and everyone will feel like they are seeing double. No doubt your son will enjoy dressing up together with you.
Impress Everyone at the Halloween Party
Going to a Halloween party and you want to impress everyone with a macho costume? Well, this is the costume to get if you want to do this. With the super hero costume, you'll be looking great and all the ladies love a man who is a super hero with super powers. So, if you are really wanting to make a great impression at the party you're attending this Halloween, consider going with the Iron Man Super Deluxe Adult costume. You'll definitely make a great impression.
http://www.squidoo.com/iron-man-super-deluxe-adult-costume
Find the largest selection at the best prices for Iron Man Halloween Costumes. Super Heroes aren't born, their built!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ira_Borden
Buy Cheap Used Shoes Online and Save Lots of Money
By Nick Frost
If you are in need of saving money like me, and would like a simple place to start, try saving on shoes. They are the first thing you really put on in the morning before you go out, and one of the last things you take off before going to bed. Shoes can be expensive, especially designer shoes, and if you are into many different types of shoes like running and jogging shoes or dance and sports shoes, chances are you have invested quite a lot of money on just shoes. Specialty shoes like the ones just mentioned are usually more expensive than the common casual every day shoes and it is usually due to the fact that you are paying for quality. Your feet are important and deserve special treatment over other parts of the body therefore you shouldn't necessarily scrimp on the quality of your shoes. So what is it we are suggesting you try out as you are scratching to know? Before you go out to stock up on more shoes, take a moment to think about how the internet can help you find the shoes your feet deserve at the cheapest prices.
The used shoe niche market is expanding its size thanks to the internet's ability to link buyers with sellers. Normally used shoes go straight to charity, which is a great thing in itself, however because the internet's ability to stretch advertisements across the country at astoundingly cheap prices if not for free, people are now placing their used shoes for sale on various online marketplaces such as eBay and Craigslist for starters. People are now beginning to realize that used shoes have a salvageable value greater than the cost of shipping in addition to the charitable tax credit. This is a great concept for men and women who either need or desire higher quality shoes at the lowest possible prices. When you purchase used shoes you are recycling and helping the shoe owner recoup a portion of the original cost of the shoes and rewarding him or her for taking such good care of them.
Like cars themselves, shoes depreciate over time and wear. Certain types of shoes depreciate quicker than others such as soccer shoes which probably last a single season. Other shoes have a long depreciation life like dress shoes, which like mine probably are worn once or twice a year for a certain special occasion. These shoes are still sitting in my closet, look brand new and were worn with a pair of new dress socks which have also been worn just the same. My designer dress shoes cost me $100 and I'd hope that they would be worth at least half that for only been worn twice. I could put an ad for them for $25 and I'm sure they'd be gone within the week, off to their new owner and happy to be part of a new family where they will get a little more attention than before. Any shoes that have been "gently worn" (a common description for used shoe advertisements) usually sell well if the starting price is above a few bucks.
Buying used shoes is so easy. Try out a search on Google using keywords like "cheap", "used" and "shoes" or Craigslist under the "for sale" section or try out a search on eBay in the "Clothing, Shoes and Accessories" category. These types of searches will yield great used shoe listings where you can buy them or bid on them. Once you purchase your cheap used shoes you're going to be receiving them at your doorstep (eBay) or meeting somebody in person (Craigslist). When you are dealing with used shoes they are coming from real people who own the shoes and have had experience using them. Some of them might even be a little emotionally attached to them; who knows. A used shoe advertisement will usually come with pictures as well as a detailed description of the condition of the used shoes. Pictures never tell a lie unless they are Photoshopped, so if the ad states that the shoes are "gently worn" and they look thrashed, then you should move on to the next advertisement. Generally, the amount of wear and tear of a particular shoe finds its way into the actual selling price. If you are thinking of buying cheap used shoes and are put off by what they may smell like when you open the box, the chances are that these kinds of used shoes would never be sold. The seller is fully responsible for accurately describing the item according to the hosting website's terms of use and privacy policy- so if they do smell and the item description didn't specify this, you may be eligible for a refund.
Selling your used shoes is easy. You can recoup some money if you use the right strategies and you might even be able to afford those new shoes you always wanted after you sell a few pairs. First join the eBay community and click "sell an item" or post a local ad in Craigslist for free. Take some pictures, describe the item with detail: include the shoe make, model, year, condition, and price. Sound familiar for all you car enthusiasts? Like I mentioned before, shoes themselves have a life like cars. They are our vehicle of transportation. In fact shoe soles are made from the same rubber plants that we use to make the tires of our cars. Why not spread the word, recycle: buy or sell your cheap used shoes today.
http://www.cheapusedshoes.com/The Leading Marketer of the Used Shoe Niche Market
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Frost
If you are in need of saving money like me, and would like a simple place to start, try saving on shoes. They are the first thing you really put on in the morning before you go out, and one of the last things you take off before going to bed. Shoes can be expensive, especially designer shoes, and if you are into many different types of shoes like running and jogging shoes or dance and sports shoes, chances are you have invested quite a lot of money on just shoes. Specialty shoes like the ones just mentioned are usually more expensive than the common casual every day shoes and it is usually due to the fact that you are paying for quality. Your feet are important and deserve special treatment over other parts of the body therefore you shouldn't necessarily scrimp on the quality of your shoes. So what is it we are suggesting you try out as you are scratching to know? Before you go out to stock up on more shoes, take a moment to think about how the internet can help you find the shoes your feet deserve at the cheapest prices.
The used shoe niche market is expanding its size thanks to the internet's ability to link buyers with sellers. Normally used shoes go straight to charity, which is a great thing in itself, however because the internet's ability to stretch advertisements across the country at astoundingly cheap prices if not for free, people are now placing their used shoes for sale on various online marketplaces such as eBay and Craigslist for starters. People are now beginning to realize that used shoes have a salvageable value greater than the cost of shipping in addition to the charitable tax credit. This is a great concept for men and women who either need or desire higher quality shoes at the lowest possible prices. When you purchase used shoes you are recycling and helping the shoe owner recoup a portion of the original cost of the shoes and rewarding him or her for taking such good care of them.
Like cars themselves, shoes depreciate over time and wear. Certain types of shoes depreciate quicker than others such as soccer shoes which probably last a single season. Other shoes have a long depreciation life like dress shoes, which like mine probably are worn once or twice a year for a certain special occasion. These shoes are still sitting in my closet, look brand new and were worn with a pair of new dress socks which have also been worn just the same. My designer dress shoes cost me $100 and I'd hope that they would be worth at least half that for only been worn twice. I could put an ad for them for $25 and I'm sure they'd be gone within the week, off to their new owner and happy to be part of a new family where they will get a little more attention than before. Any shoes that have been "gently worn" (a common description for used shoe advertisements) usually sell well if the starting price is above a few bucks.
Buying used shoes is so easy. Try out a search on Google using keywords like "cheap", "used" and "shoes" or Craigslist under the "for sale" section or try out a search on eBay in the "Clothing, Shoes and Accessories" category. These types of searches will yield great used shoe listings where you can buy them or bid on them. Once you purchase your cheap used shoes you're going to be receiving them at your doorstep (eBay) or meeting somebody in person (Craigslist). When you are dealing with used shoes they are coming from real people who own the shoes and have had experience using them. Some of them might even be a little emotionally attached to them; who knows. A used shoe advertisement will usually come with pictures as well as a detailed description of the condition of the used shoes. Pictures never tell a lie unless they are Photoshopped, so if the ad states that the shoes are "gently worn" and they look thrashed, then you should move on to the next advertisement. Generally, the amount of wear and tear of a particular shoe finds its way into the actual selling price. If you are thinking of buying cheap used shoes and are put off by what they may smell like when you open the box, the chances are that these kinds of used shoes would never be sold. The seller is fully responsible for accurately describing the item according to the hosting website's terms of use and privacy policy- so if they do smell and the item description didn't specify this, you may be eligible for a refund.
Selling your used shoes is easy. You can recoup some money if you use the right strategies and you might even be able to afford those new shoes you always wanted after you sell a few pairs. First join the eBay community and click "sell an item" or post a local ad in Craigslist for free. Take some pictures, describe the item with detail: include the shoe make, model, year, condition, and price. Sound familiar for all you car enthusiasts? Like I mentioned before, shoes themselves have a life like cars. They are our vehicle of transportation. In fact shoe soles are made from the same rubber plants that we use to make the tires of our cars. Why not spread the word, recycle: buy or sell your cheap used shoes today.
http://www.cheapusedshoes.com/The Leading Marketer of the Used Shoe Niche Market
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Frost
10/13/2008
Halloween : Gund 17-Inch Frankenstein with Sound & Light Up Eyes
Well this toy is Huge, it seems to be made happy halloween pretty well, and is fantastic value at just over $10. Please note that he doesn't groan when his nose is pushed, but instead says a rather cheerful 'Happy Halloween' which is a little disappointing for those of us with more morbid tastes.
10/12/2008
Keurig B60 Special Edition Gourmet Single-Cup Home-Brewing System
If you're reading this review coffee maker, you're most likely doing research and trying to decide between the Keurig line (B40,B50,B60), the Tassimo, or the Senseo. Out of those three, the Keurig is the best looking, the most durable, has the best heating and pumping mechanism, and has the largest variety of coffees and teas available. The Tassimo's versatility is tempting, but variety of coffees is lacking, the machine is a first-run model that does not feel as quality as the Keurig (I could barely find a piece of metal in the entire thing), and it cannot be set to warm itself up like the Keurig. The Senseo isn't bad and I may even consider getting it as a second machine, but it is kind of lame how you need two pods to brew an 8 oz cup of coffee. Considering the price of pods that I was looking at, it would outprice both the Keurig and the Tassimo for daily usage. Between the Keurig models (B40,B50,B60), I spent a lot of time trying to decide and eventually went with the B60, mainly because the B60 is the only model that brews 3 different sizes of coffee--5.25, 7.25, and 9.25oz. The B50, a favorite amongst shoppers, does not offer the 9.25oz size. This large size allows my Oxo travel mug to almost completely fill after using one Extra Bold K-cup. As an added benefit of the B60, you get beautiful blue LEDs behind the display and the water tank, as well as a polished chrome handle and polished chrome outer-ring to the display. It looks very modern and very classy in my otherwise boring kitchen. Highly recommended Coffee Maker.
Choosing a Coffee Maker
By Anne Lim
If you like coffee you might agree with this " A perfect cup of coffee is dependent on 1) coffee and 2) coffee maker".
Choosing good quality coffee preferably whole beans, marks the first step to making a good cup of coffee Making sure that the water temperature is right for brewing and adding suitable amount of water to the coffee will impact on the aroma of the coffee that is going to be served.
The task of choosing a coffee maker thus seems to be important since the coffee maker will affect the brew. Interestingly, for the same beans that are used, the coffee that is brewed taste different. I'm saying this out of experience. The two different types of coffee maker that are available in my office produces different tastes of coffee though they use the same beans.
Interesting? How could this has happened? The extraction of coffee from coffee grounds or beans by different coffee makers affect the flavor and taste of the coffee.
The most basic type of coffee maker is the automatic drip coffee maker. It is simple to use. Coffee grounds are put into a filter funnel and then water is boiled and flows through the funnel. If you are someone who like things simple and hassle free, you might want to go for this conventional and reliable type of coffee maker. Most such coffee makers in the market offers an automatic turn off safety feature and a pause and serve feature. Prices for such coffee makers are around the range of US$60 - US$140 dependent on the brand and model. The normal capacity is between 8 - 12 cups.
If you like to have a bit more options in customizing your cup of coffee you might wish to go for a coffee and espresso combination machine. These types of coffee makers offer more variety in the type of beverages that can be made from regular coffee to latte and espresso. Prices are steeper, starting from US$200 onwards. When choosing such a machine, you might want to consider the features such as the grinder, milk frother, good bean hopper, strong pump. If your skills in coffee making are good, you might want to choose a manual machine. If not, an automatic machine will help to save the trouble but give you a good cup of coffee.
Different brands of coffee makers are available in the market and as a conscious consumer looking for good value, it is important to consider the reliability of the machine and the reputation of the manufacturer other than price and functionality. When you are embarking on the journey to get the right coffee maker, why not keep these pointers in mind?
Coffee Maker Wizard offers reviews of coffee makers and coffee tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Lim
If you like coffee you might agree with this " A perfect cup of coffee is dependent on 1) coffee and 2) coffee maker".
Choosing good quality coffee preferably whole beans, marks the first step to making a good cup of coffee Making sure that the water temperature is right for brewing and adding suitable amount of water to the coffee will impact on the aroma of the coffee that is going to be served.
The task of choosing a coffee maker thus seems to be important since the coffee maker will affect the brew. Interestingly, for the same beans that are used, the coffee that is brewed taste different. I'm saying this out of experience. The two different types of coffee maker that are available in my office produces different tastes of coffee though they use the same beans.
Interesting? How could this has happened? The extraction of coffee from coffee grounds or beans by different coffee makers affect the flavor and taste of the coffee.
The most basic type of coffee maker is the automatic drip coffee maker. It is simple to use. Coffee grounds are put into a filter funnel and then water is boiled and flows through the funnel. If you are someone who like things simple and hassle free, you might want to go for this conventional and reliable type of coffee maker. Most such coffee makers in the market offers an automatic turn off safety feature and a pause and serve feature. Prices for such coffee makers are around the range of US$60 - US$140 dependent on the brand and model. The normal capacity is between 8 - 12 cups.
If you like to have a bit more options in customizing your cup of coffee you might wish to go for a coffee and espresso combination machine. These types of coffee makers offer more variety in the type of beverages that can be made from regular coffee to latte and espresso. Prices are steeper, starting from US$200 onwards. When choosing such a machine, you might want to consider the features such as the grinder, milk frother, good bean hopper, strong pump. If your skills in coffee making are good, you might want to choose a manual machine. If not, an automatic machine will help to save the trouble but give you a good cup of coffee.
Different brands of coffee makers are available in the market and as a conscious consumer looking for good value, it is important to consider the reliability of the machine and the reputation of the manufacturer other than price and functionality. When you are embarking on the journey to get the right coffee maker, why not keep these pointers in mind?
Coffee Maker Wizard offers reviews of coffee makers and coffee tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Lim
10/09/2008
Black & Decker 19-Inch 24-Volt Cordless Electric Mulching Lawn Mower #CMM1200
Black & Decker 19-Inch 24-Volt Cordless Electric Mulching Lawn Mower #CMM1200
Buy one low price today you save $105...now
I just purchased this mower and mowed my lawn today. First, the positives:
1. This thing is as-advertised. There's no assembly required other than arranging the mulching bag and removing the mulcher - if that's what you want to do.
2. It was incredibly easy to start this thing - insert key and lift lever.
3. No mess, no gas, no oil, no air filter. The only maintenance described in the service manual is blade sharpening (once to twice per year) and battery replacement. (Possible two years?).
4. Charging the unit is as easy as charging a cell phone and it charged up overnight. It had enough juice to mow my 1/3rd acre lot with heavy spring weeds that were also a little wet without running out of battery juice.
5. The unit came with Styrofoam inserts that surrounded the battery. I had a very strong feeling that these inserts were for shipping only and must be removed before operating the unit. However, there is nothing in the manual that states this either way and I had to figure it out for myself.
6. There are no instructions for how to replace the battery - you are instructed to take it to a service dealer. Perhaps they could have put more effort into the documentation.
7. The mulching bag doesn't seem to hold much grass. I had to empty it three times before I was done mowing. All and all, I love this mower. I hated having to jack with gas and oil and filters and maintenance of gas mowers. Plus, this thing is relatively quiet compared to my gas mower. I recommend it.
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers
This item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping. Low price!!...You Save $100.02 Buy now!!
I love this thing! I have friends who've had KitchenAid mixers for years and they've always raved about their quality and durability. Well, I finally went for it and I have absolutely no regrets. You want to talk about a solid piece of kitchen machinery? This is the epitome of what "Made in America" used to mean! Unlike all the cheapo mixers out there, I'm completely confident that this thing will even outlast ME! The only problem is now I'm wondering why I waited so long!
-----> This may help some of you
- I read a review somewhere in which the reviewer gave this mixer a poor rating because it left dry ingredients in the bottom of the bowl
- read the instruction booklet, people. It clearly states that if this occurs (or if the attachments scrape the bowl), there is an adjustment screw that raises or lowers the mixing assembly.
I had to slightly lower mine and it now incorporates everything into the mix. The KitchenAid mixers are well worth the money....or you can keep buying junk mixers every couple years...the choice is yours.
10/08/2008
Hoover S3765-040 WindTunnel Electronic Bagless Canister Vacuum
You Save: $140.04 (40%)
This vacuum cleaner looks a tad like an offshoot of Artoo-Detoo, but it gets the job done in a jiffy. I put it together fairly easily, plugged it in, hit the button and took it for a test-drive. It cleaned my wall-to-wall carpeting in no time at all and left it looking like new. There's a foot pedal to wind the cord, and the cord is 22 feet long so that one plug-in should take care of a good-size room. And the best thing is there is no yucky bag to change (the worst thing about regular vacuum cleaners). The plastic dirt container needs emptying every three or four weeks (I vacuum three rooms of wall-to-wall carpeting once a week) but it couldn't be simpler -- push the release button, lift the container out, dump the dirt into the garbage can, rinse out the container, dry it and pop it back in. There are a several attachments to clean the stairs, the blinds, and the furniture that work well. This is a great mid-price canister vac that is a good value for the money.
Hoover U5140-900 Tempo Widepath Bagged Upright Vacuum
Free Shipping
Special Offers and Product Promotions
Save $5 off $25, $10 off $50, or $15 off $100
when you pay with Bill Me Later®. Offer valid Oct 1, 2008 - Oct 12, 2008. Limited to items sold by Amazon.com. Subject to credit approval.
One per customer. Enter code BMLDEALS at checkout.
when you pay with Bill Me Later®. Offer valid Oct 1, 2008 - Oct 12, 2008. Limited to items sold by Amazon.com. Subject to credit approval.
One per customer. Enter code BMLDEALS at checkout.
Despite the rave reviews here on amazon and on other sites, I was not expecting much with such a low price. My expectations were certainly rewarded with an amazing value, a great vacuum, and the usual Amazon speedy delivery. It is really hard to believe that such a good product could be so inexpensive, even if it is made in Mexico. The build quality is excellent. However, for someone tall, like me, (6'4") the handle is not long enough, the bag is on the small side, and the unit is noisy (but not any more so than other vacuums I have had that were 3x the price), but those are the only negatives after a week of use. Instead of smelling dust while vacuuming, the air coming out of the vacuum is actually fresher and cleaner smelling than the air in the room. Searching amazon, one can find belts for $3 or less and bags less than $1 in quantity, so the unit should be inexpensive to operate. If I get five years out of the unit, I will be more than satisfied.
10/01/2008
Buy Fun Halloween
I think we are asked to rate the item, not the man. I think its a good likeness of him.
Is the McCain mask supposed to be scary or am I frightened because I'm thinking he may be elected president?
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