Why is My Cat Attacking Me?

Cat aggression towards owners is a common problem and can be very distressing, not to mention painful! There are a range of reasons why your cat might be doing this. If you can identify the cause, then a solution is more likely to work.

Pain

If your cat has recently become aggressive, he or she may be in pain. No doubt you are pretty grumpy when you have a headache or toothache, and cats can experience these things too. If your cat has a condition like osteoarthritis, it may be more uncomfortable later in the day, and this may be when she becomes aggressive.

If your cat is fairly young, he or she may actually be playing with you. Kittens are most likely to play fight. Theories suggest that it helps kittens to strengthen their muscles, develop eye-muscle coordination and learn gentle social play. As the kittens get older, the amount of play aggression increases and gets rougher, eventually leading to the dispersion of the litter. Owners often find young cats sneaking up, biting and ambushing passing ankles instead.

You will need to redirect the cat's behavior towards inanimate objects instead of you through active play with toys that move. When the cat becomes aggressive, a squirt of water or startle noise can help them learn not to attack you. You might consider introducing another cat of about the same age so that the play occurs between the cats instead of involving you.

Predatory aggression

The instinct to hunt is triggered by the sight or sound of moving prey. Hunting behaviors are instinctive so eliminating them is not possible. They can, however, be directed into acceptable outlets. Encourage active play with moving toys and direct the behavior toward objects that can withstand claws and teeth. If your cat is allowed outside, it can expend some energy hunting insects instead of you.

Redirected aggression

When a cat becomes upset, it would normally direct the aggression toward the source, however, if the source is not accessible, the cat may redirect the aggression towards something closer such as you, a dog or another cat. Unfortunately, the association between a victim and a stressful event can stick for a long time, so that every time the cat is around the victim, it is reminded of the incident and may attack again.

Prevention can be easier than cure. Don't try to calm or handle an upset cat. There are times, however, when this is impossible. The most common solution is long-term separation of the cat from its target, but this can take a long time. Alternatively, your vet can prescribe anti-anxiety medications that you can combine with gradual reintroduction and rewards. If the victim is a cat that has become excessively fearful of the aggressive cat, it can also be treated to reduce its fear and increase its boldness.

Maternal aggression

Mother cats with young kittens are naturally protective of their young. Hormonally-influenced aggression is strongest during the first week after birth and gradually diminishes as the kittens get older. This is normal behavior. If you need to handle the kittens, try to keep a kitten between you and the mother cat. It is unlikely that the new mother will go over a kitten to attack you.

If you have an ongoing problem with cat aggression, it is best to speak with your vet to discuss various behavioral solutions. Medication is usually only for extreme cases, but can be helpful until behavioral measures are working.

Collecting Antique Toys

You may have your favorite childhood toy. Like your favorite toy train that you kept near your bed. These items nowadays can bring back the old memories of your childhood and the happy moments when you were still a kid playing your favorite toy.

These days, you will find antique toy collectors converting his entire basement, room, garage or a part of the living room into a miniature train set with complete resemblance of trees, bridges, and streams. However, this hobby could be expensive because of the set up you will need.

Fortunately, an expensive train set can offer lucrative profits in return. Because of its antiqueness and the memory it evokes, it can be sold at a more expensive price for toy train collectors. In fact, a pre-World War 2 Mickey Mouse collection set was auctioned for the amount of $1500.00.

Usually, a person may purchase a toy because he wants his children to play with toys. Another reason could be collecting and preserving a particular time manufactured only for a limited time.

Enthusiasm is one key element when you are collecting antique toys. You may come to a point where you are more than willing to pay any amount for the last piece needed to complete your toy collection. Others also opt to purchase a particular antique toy that has defined its formative years of existence. For example, the first ever Batman comic book has an auctioned price of approximately $10,000.00.

Factors that you have to look at when you prefer collecting antique toys is the condition and years of existence of the toy you will purchase. A particular antique toy that is still in good condition will certainly become scarce and may have a high asking price in some point in time.

Toys that are still sealed in their original boxes are the most expensive. These are called toys which are in their mint condition. Toys that were already opened and used could be less valuable because they may have lost their quality. Storing toys in a dust free environment is highly recommended.

But if you prefer to handle, clean and display them outside their storage area. Make sure that you use cotton gloves in transferring your toys. This is to prevent any dirt or oil from your hands to tarnish or damage the surface portion of the toys.

Toys that are widely popular and well recognized are safer purchases compared to the items that are only recognized for a limited time. The shortages and fads that made the toys appealing and popular for short periods may not have the same appeal and attraction when you talk about long term.

Those popular Tickle Me Elmo Dolls that were really in demand were selling with an added thousand dollars of its original selling price right before Christmas. The best way to invest on toys, such as in cases like this, is to purchase directly to the manufacturer of these toys.

If you are really into antique toy collecting, you may search web sites for informative guides on the current auction prices of the more widely popular antique toys. The internet is also a great place for sellers and buyers in this kind of market.

That Darned Coke Machine

I've always thought of myself as a person interested in almost everything and may have been born with that trait. Of course Dad was like that and he may have passed some of that along to me - if not through his genes then certainly on the many projects we tackled together.

When I was really small, maybe three or four, Dad told me he could have one of his old cars up on blocks working on something underneath and I would be right there with him watching his every move. He said he would need a tool and turn around to get it or ask me to get it for him and I would have the exact tool he needed in my outstretched hand as if he had communicated that to me telepathically. He said I just seemed to know what he needed without being told.

Several years later I was in the break room at the north end of the first and second grade school building where there was a red pop machine and several kids my age milling around. The machine was the type that dispensed a six-ounce glass bottle of Coca Cola from the top.

Upon closer inspection the mechanism was simple in that it required a dime to be inserted into a narrow slot on top then rotate a large handle to expose the next bottle at the bottom of a recessed opening. The individual seeking the coke would then insert his hand into the five inch hole and retrieve the cold bottle of soda pop then let the handle return back to its home position.

Once in a while, during a recess or before class, a teacher or one of the kids whose parents had money would purchase a coke and drink it while I watched. They would always catch my stare as if to wonder, "What's that kid doing staring at me?" Or to wonder if they should offer me a drink or to question if I was staring at them for another reason, especially if the person was a girl. My stare would have been that intense.

I'm not sure why I would have waited for that particular moment and not have tried sooner. Perhaps it was my first day in school or it was the first time I had been in the break room. I just don't remember. But one day I decided to get closer to the situation and actually climbed up on the machine where I could observe the action then watched closely as a little freckled faced girl came in and stuck a thin silver dime into the slot on top and turned the handle.

From my vantage point I saw the mechanism at the bottom of the hole began to operate and the bottles began to rotate around until one of them was directly below the opening and the little girl reached in to retrieve her bottle of pop.

With the same determination I had displayed helping my dad with one of his old cars, I paid particular attention to the relationship between the lever and the position of the mechanism at the bottom of the hole restraining the next bottle as the little girl removed her soda pop and released the lever.

My interest was bumped to another level when I noticed a small time delay before the opening closed up and also saw another bottle of pop sitting there ready for the taking. But before I could get my hand in there and retrieve the bottle the mechanism closed up, locking the next bottle in place.

Still there was hope. If I could just get my hand in there a second sooner and retrieve the bottle before the lever closed completely then the little girl would not be the only one to have an ice cold six ounce bottle of Coca Cola.

Thinking that I continued to watch curiously as another person, a heavyset kid about my age approached the machine and placed his dime in the slot and pulled the lever. We exchanged glances as he removed his coke and that might have taken up some of the delay time I needed before the mechanism closed on the next bottle. But I didn't think about it at the time and went in after what I thought would be a free bottle of soda pop.

I felt my fingers wrap around the cold neck of the next bottle and was about to pull it free when I heard the dreaded clunking sound of the mechanism as it released and closed on my wrist. My hand was trapped in the space wrapped around the next bottle of Coca Cola and I was stuck like a rat in a mousetrap and just like the rat, there was no amount of wiggling that could free my hand so I just lay there and waited.

Soon a crowd started to gather along with some of my friends. One of them lived across the street from me. He said, "You dumb shit!" Another one insisted, "I'm going to kick your butt when you get out or here." Others just glared at me, not believing someone they had been seen playing with would pull such a stunt - to get caught with their hand in the cookie jar.

Many of them were just like me. They didn't have any money but there were other ways to get a soda pop than sticking your hand in a pair of handcuffs and throwing away the key. Perhaps they were smarter than me, I didn't know. All I knew was they were free and I was not.

By the time the school bell rang, the room was bulging with first and second graders and several teachers. And once the shock wore off, one of the teachers saw my predicament and sensing an immediate danger ran to get the principal.

He showed up in a couple of minutes and squeezed through the pressing crowd packed inside the small room attempting to get a look at the crazy kid with his hand stuck in the coke machine.

When the principal appeared in the open doorway, the first thing he did was to instruct the teachers to get their kids to their classroom. "The bell has already rang," he said, sternly, "and it's time to start your classes."

Meanwhile, as the crowd began to thin somewhat, the principal fished around in his pocket and found a thin silver dime: a coin with Roosevelt's left facing picture on the front side and on the back was a torch with an olive branch on the left and an oak branch on the right. The edge of the dime was serrated with 118 ridges, a diameter of 17.92 mm, a thickness 1.35 mm and is the smallest, thinnest and lightest of all the US coins but I didn't care about all that. He held the coin between his thumb and forefinger and switched his gaze between the thin piece of silver and me as if wondering if it was worth the effort or was trying to decide which was worth the most - the coin or me. All I wanted was to get my hand out and watched attentively as the principal inserted the thin sliver of silver into the same slot the two first graders had used previously and the same slot I would have used if I had a dime in my pocket.

In a couple of seconds I heard the sound of the coin rake the edges of the slot then clank its way past the triggering mechanism to the holding bin, followed by the anxious sound of the handle rotating and the heat of blood rushing to my fingers when the ratchet released my hand and I was free.

I exchanged glances with the principal again as I massaged my wrist then jumped down off the machine and ran past him through the door and down the hall to my first grade classroom. He didn't try to stop me but I heard him yell after me. He said, "you do that again and I'll leave you in there!"

Use Patterns You Don't Have to Pay For to Build a Pretend Home With a Twist!

Children love having their own dream home, complete with all the amenities of the real thing. If you have any skills with word working and carpentry, then the patterns that are available at no cost will provide you with a wide variety of styles to ensure you have something uniquely suited to your child.

Girls have their Victorian homes and princess castles to entertain their friends in but boys are interested in different types of dream homes. For starters, imagine a child-sized house on stilts. Boys will love having a tree house without the tree! It sits several feet off the ground and is made completely of timber. Free-standing and simply constructed, the home is sturdy and weatherproof and you can build it yourself!

You will also find that there are a variety of homes that are designed like forts. These may be one or two stories and either will be a great way to inspire boys to relive the past. Imagine the fun he will have in a two story fort with a balcony where he and his friends can ward off the enemies. This type of building gives you the option of having two levels for the kids to enjoy playing in, making the bottom into a sandbox for the younger kids, or use it as a storage building for yourself.

The Clubhouse is a simple building that provides girls or boys with a hideaway where they will enjoy their own special place. Easy step-by-step instructions make this a building that you can work on with your child. It shouldn't take more than a few days to complete since the design is simple and it doesn't include enclosed doors and windows. The simple backyard playhouse is another option that is simple yet functional. It uses lattice as the main building element and has colorful canvas as the roof.

Instead of building a secret club on stilts so that it feels like it is among the trees, you can find the blueprints on how to build a real tree house and they won't cost you anything either. Nothing is more exciting than climbing a ladder up to a special clubhouse where all his friends can enjoy playing all day. Your blueprints should include instructions on how to choose the right spot for the tree house to make it safe.

Choosing a special design for your little boy will be special but making it yourself or having him help you with the construction will be even more special. As a bonus, when you don't have to pay for the pattern and instructions for the pretend home and you build it yourself, you will be able to create a more detailed structure for a smaller price. If you aren't artistically talented enough to create a design for yourself, then go online and search to see what is available. You should find hundreds of patterns to choose from.

Long Stitch - The Beginner's Dream Stitch

Have you ever wanted to learn needlepoint, but just don't know where or how to begin? If you have an interest in needle crafts, you have probably visited an assortment of websites dealing with the subject. Or, you may have researched the subject the old-fashioned way, through your local library and bookstore. There are numerous sources available on the subject. You've probably scanned through some of the informational resources and found, literally, hundreds of stitches listed. Did this cause you to panic? Remain calm, help is on the way.

For the beginner, I have always recommended Long Stitch as the stitch to learn needlepoint with. The Long Stitch, a member of the Straight Stitch family, is, as I stated in the title of this article, the beginner's dream stitch. The reason this stitch is so easy to learn, is, well, because it is a SIMPLE stitch. The stitch is exactly what both names imply. It is a long and straight stitch. There are no loops to this stitch, nor do you need to worry about crossing the stitch. The stitch is worked from bottom to top. Simply bring the needle and yarn up through the canvas, move straight up over the specified number of canvas threads and bring the needle down through the canvas. You really can't get any easier than that!

Another added bonus to working with, not only the Long Stitch, but any straight stitch, is the lack of canvas distortion. Because straight stitches are worked vertically or horizontally, there is no diagonal pull, the main cause of canvas warping, as is common with diagonal and cross stitches.

There are two basic rules to keep in mind when working a long stitch project. Rule number one: Do not create stitches that are excessively long. A stitch that is too long will snag and occasionally break. If you have put time and effort into a needlepoint project, do you really want to worry about it coming apart at some point in the future? That was an absurd question, no one would want that. It is a good idea to keep your stitches at no more than eight or ten canvas threads in length. This number is based on 10-mesh (gauge) canvas. If you are working on canvas of a smaller mesh, for example 12-mesh or 18-mesh, the stitches may be worked over a larger number of threads. Rule number two: Maintain an even yarn tension throughout the project. The yarn should be taut, but not tight enough to cause the canvas to bend. To help achieve this, a frame should always be used for long stitch projects. By loading your project onto a four-way frame, you will be able to keep the canvas pulled tight in all four directions. A scroll frame is highly recommended for this.

Long Stitch projects are available as kits. With a kit, you get the design already printed on the canvas plus the quantity of yarn you will need to work the project. Lately, I have noticed a decrease in the number of kits available that feature long stitch. I'm not sure why this is so. Fortunately, I design my own projects. Many of them consist of long stitch and other straight stitches. I have found long stitch to be excellent when working details like wrinkles in a face or the fur of a dog and cat. The point where one long stitch ends and another begins will create a distinct line, thus creating the wrinkle in the face or the fur line of a dog or cat. For an example of what can be accomplished with this versatile stitch, visit the Stitchopedia.com page featuring a FREE LONG STITCH design entitled, Boris, the Boxer (He's a dog, not an athlete).

Regardless of which stitch or stitches you choose to learn first, needlepoint can become a lifetime hobby. Some people may even call it an addiction. Hobby or addiction, needlepoint, long stitch in particular, has given me many hours of relaxation and imaginative creativity. Hopefully, it will do the same for you.

Great Birthday Gifts For Boys

Boys can be tough to buy for-especially if you already have "every" action figure ever made! Don't buy another video game, just because you can't think of anything else! Consider one of these kid tested ideas for your next "boy" gift:

1. Storage for cars or action figures: Little boy toys like cars and action figures are great for prompting pretend play and role playing-but the small pieces get scattered everywhere. Your house will look better, and your son will be more likely to play with his cars if they are all in the same accessible place. Look for a storage set specifically designed for cars or action figures, or select and decorate a large tackle box.

2. Sports Equipment: This may seem obvious, but a sports set with equipment of the right size (scaled down for little guys, regulation sized for big kids), will keep your child motivated and moving. Consider a basketball hoop, soccer goal, or for the little ones, a t-ball set.

3. Skateboard, skates, or scooter: Depending on his age, one of these fun and functional transport devices is a great addition, and will be sure to encourage physical activity. If you buy one of these items, be sure to supply the proper safety equipment, and explain the rules for use as well.

4. Fishing gear: Supply your son with his own fishing rod and tackle box. Little kids will enjoy using a smaller sized rod featuring their favorite characters. Kid 8 and up can use a standard sized rod. Depending on where you live, you can go fishing, shrimping, or crabbing-the one on one quiet time you will have together is just as important as the catch of the day!

5. Tent or Tunnel: Offer a pop up tent or tunnel, and allow your son to use his imagination. A tent can become a fort, a spacecraft, or even a play house, all in a single day. Look for a tent or tunnel that folds compactly for easy storage.

6. Visit a zoo or museum: Have some one-on-one time with your child at a zoo or museum. If your son is interested in dinosaurs, check out an exhibit, attend a dino-talk, and have lunch at a local museum, and pick up a souvenir at the gift shop as a reminder of the day.

7. Take in a Sports Event: If you have a local major or minor league team, spend a day together at a sports event. If your child has an interest in a particular sport, attending a "real" match or game can be a very inspiring experience for him.

8. Pottery set: You can buy a kit that comes with everything you need to make your own pottery-this very messy activity appeals to boys with an interest in art, and helps foster creativity. Alternatively, provide art materials like paint, paper, and canvas to encourage creativity.

9. Building set: Choose a building set of some type-depending on your child's age, it can be robotic, including moving parts, or a classic "building" toy like plastic or wooden blocks. Either way, make sure you purchase a large set with lots of pieces, and make some space for your "builder" to work.

10. Remote control anything: Boys of all ages-including grown ups, love to play with remote control toys. From helicopters to cars, and airplanes to boats, you can find a fun remote control toy that your son will enjoy.

35' Parachute w/ Handle and Carry Bag by Pacific Play Tents

Product Details

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Visiting Leeds

A few basic facts about Leeds city

o The name Leeds was derived from the Latin word Leodis.

o Leeds is the second largest metropolitan district in the UK.

o Leeds' natives are called Loiners.

o Leeds is located in West Yorkshire.

o It has an area of 220 square miles or 570 square kilometres.

o The exact population is 7,028,000 as per the most recent census report.

o The weather is quite cool on average, but with four very definite seasons. Recent years have seen summer temperatures way above 30°C!

Major attractions in Leeds

Leeds boasts lots of attractions for visitors and tourists. Some notable attractions famous worldwide are the Royal Armouries, Harewood House, West Yorkshire Playhouse, City Art Gallery, the Leeds University and Roundhay park. Adding to these attractions are the Leeds Festivals, music bonanzas, and Leeds' love of cricket, rugby and football. The Art Galleries include the Henry Moore Institute, Leeds City Art Gallery, Liston Studios, and the University Gallery and they have a lot of displays to attract tourists who love art and sculpture including great paintings and artefacts.

Some great ancient houses such as Temple Newsam House and Lotherton Hall attract those who are interested in ancient artistic mansions. A pedestrian will find the Guided Walks, a selection of City Centre Walks really exciting. Those who are interested in history and topography may visit the Canal Gardens, Kirkstall Abbey, Middleton Railway, the Town Hall, Tropical World and the Leeds United Stadium Tour. There are galaxies of museums that display Leeds at its best for all ages. They include the Abbey House Museum, Armley Mills Industrial Museum, Horsforth Village Museum, Royal Armouries Museum, Thackray Medical Museum, and Thwaite Mills Watermill. For nature lovers, there are a host of Parks including the Bramley Falls, Chevin Forest Park at Otley, Golden Acre Park, Middleton Park, Pudsey Park, Rothwell Country Park, Rounday Park, Canal Gardens, and Tropical World, Springhead Park at Rothwell, and again the famous Temple Newsam house and farm.

The Guided Walks

Visiting a city on a walk has its own charm. Catering to this aspect and desire of many visitors, Leeds City Council has arranged for guided walks around the city. A city guide is provided and the guided walk is arranged during evenings on weekdays and during the day time at weekends on payment of certain charges. You can contact the guided walks organizers on (0113) 252 6807. The walk covers the pubs and yards, churches, historic markets, arcades, paintings, riverside walkabouts, the Town Hall with photos and events, civic buildings in Leeds, and TV themes. When a visitor goes home after experiencing a guided walk, this remains a fond memory for a very long time.

The Leeds City Square

The city square, one of the most important visiting spots in Leeds, is now undergoing the process of modernization. But the modernization is not aimed at changing the city square into a symbol of modern architecture. It aims to take it back to the days of Victorian designs and architecture with the famous Black Prince statue. The ballustrades have returned and so have the nymphs with lamps. In the process of modernization, the road that ran to the square in front of the post office has been pedestrianised.

Leeds Tourist Information Center

Tourists have the habit of seeking information wherever they go! Such information might relate to places of interest, lodging and boarding, food, communication, transportation, guided tours or many other topics. A Tourist Information Centre has been set up in Leeds with two entrances, one from the bus interchange and the other from the railway station.

Transportation and communication

Leeds is well connected with the rest of the UK and the world, the railway station is located next to the City Square behind the Queens Hotel.
A number of airports cater to the needs of travellers for inland and overseas journeys to and from Leeds. These include Leeds Bradford, East Midlands, Gatwick, Heathrow, and Manchester airports, with the closest obviously being Leeds Bradford Airport. Leeds is also very well communicated by rail and road links to the rest of England and the United Kingdom.

Accommodation in Leeds

A number of hotels of different types, right from basic to luxury resorts are available in a city that caters to the needs of visitors based on their choice and affordability. A complete list of hotels and accommodations available in Leeds is available at the Leeds City Council website.

Leeds, the city of valour

Leeds is also known as the city of valour. More warriors have emerged from this city than most other cities not only in England but also in Europe. The motto for the people residing in Leeds city is confined to three Ps. They are people, pride, and progress. The extraordinary thing about the city and the people is that they never dwell on the past and always look forward to the future. When you visit the city you will find that parks, playgrounds and recreation centres are being constructed for children throughout the city because the people there realise that a community that values youth also values the future. This does not mean that residents of Leeds have no respect for the past. Rather they try to incorporate them into present life while looking towards a better future.

Leeds, a core city of England

Since the day it was founded and went on to earn city status, the evolution of Leeds has been a never ending process. With a population of only 200 at the beginning, escalating to 50,000 in the 18th century and 100,000 in the 19th centuries, Leeds now houses up to 700,000 people. Located midway between London and Edinburgh the city is situated in Yorkshire. There was a time during the industrial revolutions when Leeds became one of the leading merchant cities of England mainly producing fabrics in the 19th century. The city started as a Saxon village in 1068 and evolved to a town after a century and half in 1207. Today Leeds is known not for its merchandise or educational excellence only, but most for finance and information technology, the two major industries in the city. Other notable cities of England close to Leeds are York (24 miles), Sheffield (36 miles), Manchester (44 miles), Hull (60 miles), Liverpool and Nottingham (both 74 miles) and Newcastle (94 miles).

Wooden Playhouses For Outdoor Recreation

With all the excess energy our children have its often difficult and very exhausting keeping them constantly entertained. It's important that our kids get the exercise they crave for their development and fitness. But many parents struggle to find the time due to work commitments or the money to constantly take their kids out to play or put them in daycare.

A simple answer and one that is becoming more and more popular is to create a play area for your child in your own back garden. Play equipment such as slides, swings and sand pits are very popular but the favourite piece of equipment for most parents now has to be the wooden playhouse. These are fantastic for your children to play in and can provide hours upon hours of educational, imagination building play within a safe and secure environment.

Having a wooden playhouse in your back garden can give the parent great piece of mind knowing that their child is in a safe place where they can keep a watchful eye on them as they play happily on their own or with friends. A playhouse can be turned into a secret den, dragon lair, castle or whatever your child's imagination wished. Wooden playhouses offer fantastic value for money as they can last for many years with very little care or attention. They can be painted to suit your child's needs and trends and can be the 'extra' room your house doesn't have where all the toys can be kept for your child to play with.

A good wooden playhouse can be erected almost anywhere you require it and can always be moved easily if necessary, unlike metal equipment such as swings and frames, wooden playhouses are attractive to the eye and can last longer with minimal effort. They can also be added quite easily so as your child grows and develops so can the playhouse with monkey bars, swings and slides attached.

Having a playhouse for your child to play in can give their childhood some amazing memories and can help them develop their minds as well as their bodies through imaginative play while getting plenty of fresh air and exercise without them realizing it. They are perfect for having a friend round to play, for tea or even to hold a little birthday party picnic in, your child will be the envy of their friends and having their own space away from others can do them the world of good while keeping the house a lot more tidy as all the toys can be kept in their very own 'play room'

So if you want a safe secure environment where your child can get fresh air, exercise, use their imagination as well as enjoy themselves then look no further than wooden playhouses.

What You Should Know About Plastics in Your Apartment Life

Just look around your apartment. Chances are there are dozens of items in your place that are made up of plastic. We keep plastics around because they are affordable, abundant, and convenient. However, I am constantly hearing reports that some of the plastics that I have been using aren't as safe as I originally believed they were. These are products that I use to store food, decorate, entertain and work out.

I decided to check out a few mainstream media sources just to see what they have been reporting on the subject. From what I gather, there are some petroleum-based products that leach harmful chemicals into food, drinks and anything that we decide to store in those containers. Apparently, the likelihood of chemicals being leached from the containers to the food that we store in them increases when those foods are high oils or fat.

Fortunately, there is a safer way to go. If you are going to use plastics, then try to find plastics that are BPA-free. You should also be aware of which plastics are in your child's surrounding. These could include plastics found in cribs, teething rings, diapers, pacifiers, sippy cups, baby bottles and toys. Try to avoid PVC products and choose items for your kids that are made of natural wood, cotton, cloth, or paper. Plastics to avoid are polyvinyl chloride (#3), polystyrene (#6), and polycarbonate (#7). You can usually find the number stamped on the back or the bottom of a container.

Other ways to stay safe are to heat up food using ceramics that are lead-free, earthenware or steel. You should avoid using plastics that are not identified on the label or packaging. You are looking for labels that state "no bisphenol A (BPA)" or "no phthalates". Also, be sure to wash plastic containers by hand and with a mild soap.

Sometimes, it can be a little difficult to avoid many of these plastics. I guess you have to ask yourself if you can live without the product or maybe find a reasonably alternative product. You can now buy items such as disposable plates, cutlery, and garbage bags made from corn, potatoes, and other agricultural products instead of oil. These renewable alternatives to petroleum are also designed to break down much more quickly than their typical plastic counterparts. While there's no denying these are admirable benefits, it's important to take a look at the drawbacks as well. For example, there are legitimate concerns about displacing food crops to make plastics. The real hope is that eventually most of the products will be made from agricultural waste rather than food crops.

What plastic alternatives have you brought into your home?

Outdoor Playhouses - The Partner of Parents

Raising children is a difficult job, especially for working parents. They need an efficient and reliable partner to assist them in every milestone in their child's life. Because play is an important way for children to learn and explore, parents need to make a good investment when buying their children's toys. An outdoor playhouse is one of the best educational toys a parent can give to young kids. With the fun and excitement it creates in them, your every dollar is worth it.

Keeps Children Busy

One of the biggest dilemmas of work at home parents is how to keep their children busy. This is crucial especially if they have to meet a deadline for a scheduled task. Parents resort to different ways like entertaining children with video games, television watching or to hiring a nanny to take care of the kids. Although it may catch the attention of children for a while, kids easily divert their attention back to you. In the end, you have to sacrifice your work to attend to them. However, if you have not tried the wonders of outdoor playhouse in keeping your kids busy, then this can be the answer to your problem. Outdoor playhouse can keep your children busy the whole time while you need to finish your work. By setting it up in your backyard, they can play safely and will allow you to work and supervise them at the same time.

Keeps Children at Home

Children like to play outside their homes. This is fine as long as you can supervise them. However, with your busy schedule, you cannot be with them all the time. Because you cannot ensure their safety outside the premises of your home, it is safer if they just play in your house where you can supervise them. With the outdoor playhouse, you can keep them to stay at home and forget the temptations of going outside. Instead of going to another house, they can just invite their friends to come over and spend the day in your home's safely.

Assists in Nurturing Positive Behavior

One unknown benefit of outdoor playhouse is its way of nurturing positive behavior. When children play, they interact with other kids. Their interaction helps them to learn that life does not revolve around them. It teaches them the value of sharing, communicating and learning to get along well with others. By helping them enhance acceptable behavior, they can grow up as better individuals.

Educates Children

Playing is an informal way to learn. Kids like to pretend to be adults. With the outdoor playhouse, you can help them assume adult roles. When they get a taste of how it is like to be a parent, they can appreciate your efforts better. The outdoor playhouse serves as an educational tool to teach children the value of family.

Outdoor playhouse is a good investment for parents. By providing children with an exciting yet educational play area, you can cultivate good values and keep them safe under your supervision. While they are busy playing and learning, you can stay carefree to finish your work.

Scrapbook Paper Storage: Horizontal vs. Vertical

Ask a majority of scrapbookers what their "weakness" is...and they will say paper. From unique colors of cardstock to beautifully patterned paper, we often use the logic, "Buy the paper and the layout will come." In the meantime, your scrapbook space, big or small, becomes overrun with stacks and stacks of paper waiting to be used.

So, it's time to get organized...but what is the best scrapbook storage solution?

As with everything scrapbook related, there is no correct answer, just what best fits your situation and we're here to provide you with some ideas on how to best store your scrapbook paper. Let's start with horizontal scrapbook paper storage!

Most scrapbook stores will store their paper horizontally because they have the room for rows and rows of shelves and racks. Now, most of us don't have room for all those shelves, but horizontal storage is still a possibility with 12" x 12" plastic snap top cases. You can buy them individually, or as part of a three-drawer or six-drawer cart, so you can make the most use out of your vertical space. These snap top cases are also great for storing the components of individual projects. Working on a mini-album for your son's birthday? Keep all your paper, pictures, embellishments, etc. together in one case, so you don't have to dig around for all the pieces when you actually have a minute to work on it.

If you don't like to stack your paper or have skinny bookshelves that can't take a wide storage solution? Try vertical paper storage. Depending on your preferences, you can use traditional magazine storage files for 8.5" x 11" paper, but you will have to get special storage files for 12" x 12" scrapbook paper. Vertical paper storage is best for cardstock or other papers that you will be accessing frequently because you can just slide the storage file out and pick the paper you need. These paper holders also come with dividers, so you can store multiple colors within a singe file! Just one thing to keep in mind is that you will need very tall shelves if you plan on using these vertical storage files in a bookshelf.

In the end, you may decide that you want to use a combination of horizontal and vertical scrapbook paper storage, it's all up to you!!

Happy Scrapping!

Pretend Homes For Children From Your Local Toy Store

There are elaborate pretend houses that are designed with realistic features to make them look just like the real thing. These can be very beneficial to little ones by providing them with their own special place where they have an opportunity to indulge in role play. Unfortunately, they can also be very expensive. Even if you take the time to make a pretend home for your child, it can cost a lot and take a lot of time to get the details right. Besides, if your child is very young, you may not think it's quite the right time to get a real playhouse and you may even consider opting for one that is made to use indoors.

Pretend homes can run anywhere from around $30 to more than $5,000. There are many choices you can make in between as well. If you want to get something that will work for your child but you don't want to invest a lot into it, start by looking at the local toy store to see what is available. There are some that are made of molded plastic and others that are made of cloth, depending on whether it will go indoors or out. Even though these are much simpler designs than the ones made to look like the real thing, they will still provide your child with a special place to play and use all the imagination needed to role play.

Starting on the lower end of the scale, for $30 you can find single-piece constructed cardboard homes on the market that will provide a variety of fun for children when used indoors. One model has the outlines of the features on the outside so that children can color in all the features in the colors of their choice. This is great for those children who are having sleepovers and who play well with friends so that coloring the home will give them entertainment in more ways than one! You will also find the teepee tents that are made of fabric in this price range but most are only large enough for one or two kids and offer no room for furniture.

Further up the scale at about $50, you will find the homes that are made from durable fabrics. These are available in different styles and have a variety of different features. Choose a castle for your princess that has a crawl-through tunnel and LED lights that line the doorway.

At around $150, you will find the molded plastic homes that are made to work inside or outside. Most have working doors, some with working windows, and different features are available on different styles. Working mail slots, doorbells, and even attached grills are some of the added features you will find. At about $300, you will find the same type of molded plastic homes but with added features like porches, play tunnels, or play areas.

Of course, depending on the individual store, there will be some variation in price but basically the same styles should cost about the same. You can also choose the option of building one all by yourself! 

How to Find the Right Toy For My Child

I often thing about the toy question. Normally, it wouldn't really bother me, and I'd be kind of anti-toys, but since my child will not attend kindergarten, she will only have the toys, games and crafts I offer her (or the ones she will play with on occasion at her friends' houses).

I had a conversation with a friend about this topic a while ago and really liked what she said. She said she wasn't too keen on getting too many toys, but she added there cannot be enough creative material. By this she meant craft stuff: paint, clay, chalk, pencils, colorful paper etc...

Parents' attitudes towards toys seem to be greatly influenced by how they were raised, toy-wise. Figuring this out is a huge step in the right direction.

I myself have been raised with a fairly minimal amount of toys, and more importantly, one of the rules was: no big toys. I remember going to my friends houses on play dates and ogling their fruit and vegetable shops, their big barbie houses etc... So for my daughter, I know I really want to get or make those big toys, so she doesn't feel like she's missing out as I felt when I was little. This being said, I am still quite reserved when it comes to toys. My daughter actually has quite few toys and when I set out to buy some, I always end up turning down most of them. Actually, for her first year of life, we bought no toys ourselves whatsoever, except for Christmas and her birthday. I figured, with the gifts she got, she had more than enough. To be honest, most of the time she does just play with sticks and stones and flowers outside, so there is little use to get a huge pile of things she won't play with.

I am now slowly adjusting my attitude, because at 20 months, I see there are some toys and games she does get a lot of 'mileage' out. And when I went through her toys this weekend, I found out that most of the things in her boxes weren't adapted to her age any more.

When you end up buying a toy or game, bare in mind that you are buying it for your child, not for yourself or for your expectations of your child. Toys shouldn't fill a void in your life, they shouldn't make up for what you missed out on as a child. Nor will buying your child a heap of toys make up for your absence. The first and foremost thing your child needs is your presence, love and support. Toys can't replace that.

Neither should you buy toys because they will teach your kid math/motor skills/... Don't think of toys as something to 'occupy' your child.

A good way for me to buy the right toys is to look at what she plays with at friends' houses. I soon discovered she always goes for the same things, and really enjoys them, so we set out to get her those toys.

Another good thing to do is to take your child to the toy store. When you find something you would like to get, present it to them and see how they react. This week, I wanted to get her a stroller. So I took a look at some of the models the store had to offer, picked one and had her try it out. Good thing I did! We ended up trying out all the strollers they had and found out they were all too small for her. Another thing I really loved was a rocking horse, but when I put her on it, she got really scared.

When they're a bit older, they can run free and pick what they like (my daughter also runs free, but she's too small still to get things off the racks).

Toys are there for play and for fun. But they aren't a necessity. It is equally - or even more - important for a child to be able to play with the things he finds in his/her surroundings. Fallen leaves, sand, stones... all make wonderful 'toys'. Children are extremely creative and find play wherever they are. Don't anguish about not having brought toys when you go out, let your child discover its surroundings, you'll be amazed at how nicely they can play without all those toys. Remember, toys are a fairly modern invention and only a small part of the world's children have access to them, yet, that doesn't prevent them to play.

I get the heeby jeebies from those modern day sound and light toys that drive you crazy after two minutes and leave no room for imagination and creativity. I'm not a fan of things like dining sets and fake fruit etc. To me, they can just as good play with the real kitchenware and a bag of rice. She does have a couple of electronic song toys (that don't drive me too crazy) and really enjoys them. Plus she has been playing with them for over a year now, which at that age, is quite a while.

I cannot, an will not give you a list of toys, games and craft stuff your child should have. There is no definitive list of such things. Yet again, every child is different and has different likes and interests. Choose their toys with that in mind.

Grade Your Coins

To the novice, it might seem like one coin is as good as the next. However, that's just not the case. To determine value of coins of the same type, grading is performed. Basically, grading is the process that determines the condition--and the value--of the coin being looked at. The grade of a coin can wildly affect its value. Years past, Dr. William Shelby devised the 0-70 scale system for grading coins.

Today, this code is combined with letters to create a great coin grading scale that anyone can follow. In the remainder of this article, I am going to share with you nine different grades for coins. We will start with the best possible grade and work our way down from there.

The best possible grade is MS, which means Mint State. Actually, the MS grade has a numerical range from 60 to 70. An MS coin is perfect in every way and uncirculated. You don't find MS-70 coins, you buy them--if you can. The majority of MS grade coins you will see are MS-65. If you turn on your TV, there's probably a coin selling show that will have MS grade coins.

Next up is AU. Almost uncirculated (AU) coins typically have very light traces of wear on them. One thing is for sure. The novice will have trouble determining if the coin is AU-50, AU-55, or some other grade. Here's a tip. Find the highest point on the coin (the part that sticks out the most) and look for wear. That will be your guide.

Below the AU grade is the EF grade, which means extremely fine. The EF coins have slightly more wear. Keep in mind that grading is a precise process. EF grade coins are very striking.

Very Fine coins (VF) have even more wear than the EF grade coins, but they are still great to look at. VF grade coins have sharp features, and light wear. It's one step above the change you have in your pocket.

Fine coins are basically pocket change. These coins still resemble their mold, but they have worn details. Perhaps you have seen a worn coin from the 1960's. If the coin is really showing some wear, it can be downgraded to Very Good (VG). The rims of the coin will still pop, but the coin has miles on it.

Should the coin be fairly worn, but the mint marking is still visible; it's Good (G). Below Good is AG (Almost Good). The AG grade coin has excessive wear, and features like the date might be partly missing. Fair (F) coins are in miserable shape. They might even have holes in them or be misshaped. Finally, there is the Basal State coin, which is basically a worthless coin.

Intex Inflatable Igloo Hideaway

Product Details

Brightly colored interactive fun that encourages active make-believe play which helps children develop both physically and mentally. Well balanced; won't tip or wobble. Affordable kids fun for hours of imaginative play! Inflates easily by mouth or with one of our convenient pumps. Not for use in water

• Approximate inflated size: 54" L x 50" W x 40" H
• All day fun inside the igloo
• Open top
• Repair Patch

Time to Play Rising Star Talent Stage Play Tent

Product Details

Kids will enter a world of make-believe as they perform in every imaginable kind of performance event at the Time To Play Rising Star Talent Stage Play Tent. Made of durable polyester, this theater has a curtain so little performers can change costumes between acts or before the curtain goes up. Great graphics on speakers, footlights and spotlights set the stage for real excitement that goes beyond make-believe!

Time To Play Rising Star Talent Stage Play Tent Features:

* Curtains that open and close
* Holds two or more performers
* Wireless microphone and speaker with MP3 plug-in
* Shock-corded PVC poles
* Polyester cover
* For ages 3 and up
* Requires 4 "AA" batteries and 1 "9V" battery, not included
* Adult assembly required
* Measures 48"H X 60"D X 36"W
* Made in China

Balsa Wood for Craft and Hobby Projects

Balsa Wood is light and delicate but very strong because the structural cells of the wood are large and very thin walled. This then makes the proportion of solid matter to open space very small. Woods typically have a sticky cement, called lignin, (a polymer like substance) holding the cells together.

Balsa wood is such a low density that it can be easily cut and worked with hand tools, sanding blocks and Exacto style blades. Balsa wood is the favorite choice for toy airplanes and helicopters. It is extremely light, while holding a good level of solidity. Balsa wood is also used to build very light, rigid structures in model bridge tests.

Balsa wood does have a grainy texture, so consumers should be aware of what type of cut they need for a specific project. Some balsa wood is cut across the grain, which makes it suited for carving but not for weight-bearing projects. Balsa wood is frequently thought of as the strongest wood in the world, for its weight. Pound for pound it is more substantial, in some respects than pine, hickory, or even oak.

Balsa wood gets its great strength from its vascular arrangement, a network of small tubes which carry nutrients and water throughout the tree. Balsa wood is also a little delicate, as I'm sure you have noticed. It is also the strongest practical material for its weight and therefore continues as the most popular model building material.

Balsa wood is a good wood for starting projects because it is easy to manipulate. Balsa wood aircraft are cheap, unbelievably light and easy to assemble.

Sheet balsa always needs to be squared if you need it to have a straight edge, because many pieces have a large amount of curvature. Sheets are cut in the entire wide range of density.

Crafters and hobbyists will find balsa very easy to cut and carve, making it ideal for a number of different projects. It can also be painted or stained any color the hobbyist desires.

Be sure to visit my Balsa Wood site for more information.

Pacific Play Tents Hide & Seek Play Tent & Tunnel Combo

Product Details

This combination is the ultimate for fun time playing and crawling. Hide and Seek - Tent and Tunnel Set. Recommended for indoor and outdoor use. Tent and tunnel can be used separately or together. Green, blue, purple and orange. Size: 20 x 20 x 3 inches. Cleans easily with a damp cloth and MILD soap.

• 2 Piece tent and tunnel set
• Indoor/outdoor use
• Durable, washable, water-proof floor
• Sturdy shock corded poles
• Free Carry Bag included

Build Your Own Aeroplane

If you want to build a toy plane, the easiest way to do it is to buy a plane-building kit, such as an Airfix kit, that comes with the pieces cut out for you and ready to stick together. While these kits can be time-consuming to assemble, and you do need to follow the instructions very carefully, they're not that difficult once you get the hang of it. However, once you've built a few, the chances are that you'll get quite bored of it, as apart from painting you have very little input into what the finished plane looks like.

Once you're a kit expert, you might consider taking plane patterns and cutting out the pieces of wood yourself. This is a lot more difficult, as you have to be absolutely perfect with your measurements or the plane won't even fit together, never mind fly. If you can pull it off, though, it can be very satisfying, and you can even start making subtle modifications to the patterns to make the plane fly better or look a little cooler.

For a real challenge, you can try to design a plane pattern yourself, but you need a real understanding of how and why planes fly for this to work. Study the patterns you have already made and try to see what they have in common - what the absolute skeleton of a plane is - and then try to incorporate this into your own designs. If your plane doesn't fit together or looks odd, then do keep trying, as it's almost impossible to get this right the first time, and it's a really great feeling to own a toy plane that you designed, built and painted, especially once you get confident enough to have a go at making a really big one.

Bazoongi PS-MUH Mushroom House Play Structure

Product Details

Mushroom themed playhouse with fantastic shape and style that invites imaginationPadded flap door, shutters, and roofFloor detaches for quick clean-upsDurable spun-bonded materialElasticized fiberglass polesMeets flammability requirementsFor indoor or outdoor funUV- and water-resistantPackaged in reusable clear vinyl carry bagEasy adult assembly; about five minutesAges 3 and upSize: 61" H X 60" Diameter

• Mushroom themed playhouse with fantastic shape and style that invites imagination
• Padded flap door, shutters, and roof
• Floor detaches for quick clean-ups
• Durable spun-bonded material
• Elasticized fiberglass poles

RC Planes Trains and Automobiles

While RC trains, RC cars, RC airplanes, and RC boats are all incredibly popular hobbyist pastimes, truly the most incredible of all RC options are RC helicopters. When it comes to the RC helicopter there is no surpassing the thrill of flying the device, and while other RC toys and hobbyist devices have there own benefits, the RC helicopter is truly a distinct and original pastime. Simply assembling an RC helicopter is a challenge, that once achieved, delivers to the RC helicopter hobbyist a serious and intense sense of accomplishment!

RC airplanes, electric boats, and RC cars, like the RC helicopters presently sold usually require assembly. There are some items which come fresh out of the box and are ready for use, but the hobbyist misses out on the fun to be had putting the item together him or her self. There is just something very special about sitting down and taking the time to assemble an RC toy that makes the entire pastime more enjoyable.

When comparing RC trains, RC cars, RC boats, and RC airplanes to the RC helicopter, the helicopter wins hands down! Take RC trains for example, which are great fun if you want to watch a train go around and around on a single track over an over again. For RC helicopter enthusiasts, this action can be somewhat monotonous, and the RC helicopter, once mastered, can be flown out in the open air! There is no routine flight when it comes to the RC helicopter. In terms of RC boats, which are ideal for people within close proximity to fairly large bodies of water, but what about the RC hobbyist hopefuls that has no water access nearby? Again, RC helicopters, not requiring water, can be operated out in an open field or a wide open space outdoors.

When RC helicopters are compared to RC cars and RC planes, many hobbyists prefer the unique challenges that RC helicopters deliver. Challenges are encountered in every phase, including the assembling phase as well as the flight testing phases. When such challenges are conquered, the sense of accomplishment that the RC helicopter operator gets is unparalleled.

There are in fact, RC helicopter modelling clubs that RC helicopter operators and hopefuls can join to learn everything there is to know about how to fly RC toys properly. Being part of a club gives the RC helicopter owner a chance to share his or her experiences with others as well as to learn the art of flying and control from qualified mentors. In addition to clubs, there are actually professional RC helicopter instructors that will help an RC helicopter user to learn how to make the helicopter hover, how to control the remote control sticks, how to get the helicopter to take off and land successfully without crashing, and how to master the basic steps of helicopter flying.

Later on down the road, as one progresses and advances in his or her flying practices, the helicopter operator will advance and improve his or her flying techniques. It is possible to become skilled enough to do special in flight tricks like figure eights, proper climbing and descending, semi stall turns, large circles, vertical top hats, nose in hovers, as well as nose-in take offs and landings. While every RC toy has its own set of tricks to master and the performance of tricks is certainly fun, it is clear that RC helicopters pose a significant challenge to its operators. This challenge is what makes the practice of RC helicopter operation so attractive and appealing to the avid RC hobbyist

What Makes an Aeroplane Fly?

One thing that you really need to understand before you can build a toy plane that actually flies is what it is that makes planes fly in the first place. Luckily, with a little explanation, the basic scientific principles of plane flight aren't too difficult to understand.

The key to flight, understandably, is the wings. Instead of flapping their wings like birds do, however, planes propel themselves forwards using an engine in much the same way a car does, and then rely on the shape of their wings to slowly lift them off the ground.

But why do a plane's big, flat wings lift it off the ground? The answer is all to do with how the air travels over and under the wings. A plane's wings are flatter on the bottom and more rounded on the top, which means that air takes longer to travel over the wings than under them. The higher air speed under the wings means that there is always more space for air to travel under than over - effectively, the air is being forced to go under the wings. When the plane is moving fast, enough air is being forced under the wings that the plane takes off.

Once the plane is in the air, it can either glide using its wings and a little forward power, turn up the forward power to ascend, or turn it off to descend. A plane can also steer left and right using a rudder on the air, much the same way as a boat uses one in water, and go up and down faster by tilting its nose. All of these choices are the ones you see represented on a typical toy plane remote control, and aside from the added computer-controlled navigation and radar systems to check the locations of other planes in a real plane, they are pretty much the same controls that you would find there.

Webkinz Stuffed Animals and Plush Toys

You hear the buzz about Webkinz as being the next big thing? Well you heard right! It's even bigger than Beanie Babies which took the world by storm. Excitement catches on like wildfire and Webkinz animals, which are furry little plush stuffed toys, have been flying off the racks ever since it has been launched. It has become the latest rage and collecting Webkinz pets is almost like a hobby where people buy as many as they can afford.

These cute toys come along with a unique secret code which allows you to take care of your Webkinz virtually online. You must adopt your pet first before anything else and the secret code is the key to that. It is almost as good as having a live pet maybe for some even better. The coolest part about Webkinz is that you may adopt as many pets as you want. There are no restrictions except that you must take good care of each and every one of them or they will fall sick. Legalize your adoption by printing out the adoption certificate you will receive at the end of the process.

Be extra careful while buying your favorite pet. The secret code must be there otherwise your pet will not be able to come alive virtually. It is extremely essential for you to have that special code.

You will be provided with a room and some money known as kinzcash at the beginning and you must purchase food,clothes and even furniture for your Webkinz with that. You can even customize your pet's room.

Webkinz toys are a complete fun package and owning one gives you a sense of responsibility. Money management is also inculcated. If by any chance your pet does fall sick, the doctor at Webkinz World will instruct you likewise. Buy a Webkinz pet now and experience the magical world of Webkinz.

For More information, please visit: Cheats for Webkinz and WebkinzCodes

Homeplace Victorian Playhouse with Front Porch and Railing DV68D

Product Details

Homeplace Features: -Material: Wood, resin. -Classic gingerbread design. -Perfect child's playhouse for hours of fun. -Elegant structure combines style with function. -Includes pressure treated floor runners, pine 2" x 4" floor joists and 5/8" OSB flooring. -2" x 8" Wall studs. -3/8" Smart Side panel siding. -Pine 2" x 4" Rafters and 1/2" OSB roof sheeting. -2 Window packages; 14" x 21" Windows with screens, shutters and window boxes included. -One 4 lite turned gable window. -One large door - 32" x 60"; and one small dutch door - 20" x 41". -Comes unfinished - ready to paint and shingle to suit your taste. -Includes front porch with maintenance-free rigid resin railing. -Dimensions: 92" H x 96" W x 111" D. DV68D

CarePlay 6006 Lighthouse Climber - Light Gray

Product Details

Encourage and expand the dynamic play patterns of toddlers with this compact Lighthouse Climber. Designed with both a smooth-ride slide and bumpy-ride slide, this heavy-duty climber offers multiple activities and a hideaway under the platform for added fun! With high visibility access, this climber lets you enjoy watching the kids while they let their imaginations run wild. Features: Recommended for ages 18 months to 5 years Smooth-ride slide and bumpy-ride slide with high sides Steps with high rails Four large windows for maximum visibility Hideaway area with half door under the platform Two rear openings Enclosed to protect from sun exposure and weather High durability and low maintenance Some assembly required Safe zone must be at least 20'3" x 18'6" Meets or exceeds ASTM and CPSC safety guidelines

• Recommended for ages 18 months to 5 years
• Smooth-ride slide and bumpy-ride slide with high sides
• Steps with high rails
• Four large windows for maximum visibility
• Hideaway area with half door under the platform

Bazoongi Kids Train

Product Details

Features: For ages 3 +. Colorful train play structure. Quick and easy assembly. Frame constructed of patented fiberglass poles with protective plastic coating. 100% spun-bonded fabric. Easy entry and breathable mesh doors. Indoor use only. Adult assembly required. Overall dimensions: 76" H x 48" W x 19.1" D.

• Size: 66"L X 49"H X 36"W
• Fabric: 100% spun-bounded.
• Frame: patented fiberglass poles with protective plastic coating.
• Ages 3 and up

Hideaway Teepee

Product Details

A Teepee for YouOur Hideaway Teepee creates a perfect spot for creative play and adventurous fun. If you prefer, it can serve as a quiet haven for resting and relaxing. The easy entrance and exit provides easy access for your youngster. Decorate the teepee with your own artwork and enjoy the unique look Durable materials allow for indoor or outdoor use. So... ready Set Its teepee time

• 6'H x 5'W
• Inner: 4'H
• Crafted Of: Durable cotton canvas
• For Indoor and Outdoor Use
• Assembly Required

Voltron Toys - Thirty Years of Popularity

Kids who grew up in the eighties will undoubtedly have fond memories of Voltron: Defender of the Universe, one of several Japanese 'super robot' animated series adopted for American television in the eighties. Airing from 1984-85, the series revolved around teams of pilots who flew spaceships that could be combined into the mighty robot Voltron. The two incarnations of the Voltron series consisting of vehicles (series 1) and lion robots (series 2) were adapted from the Japanese anime series respectively entitled Kikou Kantai Dairugger XV and Beast King Go Lion. The most popular version featured robotic lions piloted by the team called Voltron Force who combined their lions into a super robot warrior.

Although the original adapted series lasted only two seasons in America, it gained a huge fan following like it did in Japan. This immense popularity of Voltron in the US and Go Lion in Japan inspired toy makers to create toys based the cartoon. Although the American version of Voltron was never shown in Japan, a Japanese toymaker still capitalized on the international popularity of the series to release a line of die-cast metal toys featuring vehicles and lions from the show; these were later distributed in the US by Matchbox. The rights to produce Voltron toys were then acquired by Panosh Place, which released 3-3/4" versions of the vehicles and characters featured in the show, as well as a playset featuring the Castle of Lions.

The license then briefly passed to a company called LJN which released a couple of Voltron Vehicle models as well as some versions of the Voltron III robot. In the '90s the license passed to Trendmasters, which released new versions of the die-cast Lion Force toys as well as Stealth Voltron and Voltrex (a dinosaur version of the Voltron robot) figures. These toys are among the most popular with collectors because of their playability and the overall high quality of their construction.

At present, American toy company Toynami holds the Voltron license and has produced several Voltron sets, including the Masterpiece Collection (where the figures were made of die-cast metal) and the Collector's Gift Set (with figures made of plastic), as well as I-Men sets, which are miniatures of characters from the show.

The Voltron property continues to be popular among fans old and new, and two new projects are planned: an animated series, Voltron Force, set to air on Nickelodeon in 2010, and a long-gestating live-action movie, whose development is currently delayed due to a legal battle between Voltron's American distributor, World Events Productions, and Toei Company, over alleged copyright infringement. If these projects take off, expect to see more new Voltron sets produced, as well as intensified demand among collectors for the classic toys.

Brio Wooden Train Sets - Classic Train Toys Have Become Modern But Still Are Traditional

Toy trains, especially wooden ones, are something that have been able to continue to be a constant, and classic plaything even in a changing world that is increasingly reliant on technology and high tech super gadgets. These toys can make both children and adults smile, as they are a fond memory connected with almost everyone's childhood. Today, train themed toys tend to be largely made of metal and plastic, while generations ago, wood was typical for constructing trains. What happened to the old-fashioned wooden locomotive?

While they're much less common to come by as they were years ago, there is a company who is dedicated to creating the most excellent quality wooden train sets out there. Brio manufactures wooden trains in a variety of styles,sizes, shapes, and sets. You can locate modern trains, complete with all the great features of other more modern toys, but still made of wood. You can also come across wooden train sets which are basic and traditional, and which take you back again to your days as a child.

A good example of the modern wooden toy train produced by Brio is the Shinkansen Passenger Train. It's generally known as the world's foremost express toy train system and it is 390 mm in length. The system is very carefully produced making use of hard wood materials and is painted by hand to highlight small details. To get a much more classic look, Brio makes the Light and Sound Timber Train. This particular train closely resembles the classic toy trains a number of grown ups cherished as a youngster. The train is really a push-along engine complete by using noises only heard from actual locomotives from back in the day. The windows shine as though representing activity inside passenger cars. This kind of Brio toy train is sure to take you back to your years as a child, or spark the curiosity for a youngster wondering exactly what toy trains were like generations ago.

You can also order engines and all sorts of accessories to provide electric power for your wooden toy trains. The 4-wheel rechargeable engine red is really a common option from Brio to "soup up" your train scheme. With this engine, it can be a quick favorite, as you will no longer need to obtain batteries, or push your cars manually! It looks strikingly realistic, as it boasts front headlights and buttons that you are able to push to manually stop and start your toy train. If you pick it out, you possibly can pay for an additional backup battery pack to ensure playtime is never interrupted. (And admit it, who wouldn't wish to play with a Brio wooden toy train complete with an engine?)

No Brio toy train is complete without a railroad track. You have a variety of tracks to pick from to optimize and accommodate your train and engine. The Expansion Pack Intermediate is really a track set which is obtainable for around $25. This set includes 16 track pieces and 5 various layout suggestions. It's easy to change the direction of your train layout to include twists and turns, or whatever your imagination creates. It is possible to even pick out and purchase bridges, buildings, and tunnels to add a additional realistic touch to your Brio method. Kids will have a blast by adding fire and police stations, engine sheds, and adventure tunnels to their set.

Creating A Scrapbook For Teachers

It can be a lot of fun to create a scrapbook for an elementary school teacher. It's also a great way to give the teacher photos of the kids without having 25 individual photos each school year. I have found many photo taking opportunities for teachers at the elementary level.

Often there is a class photo taken by the company taking the children's individual photos. If a full class photo was not taken, then consider taking class photos either during computer time, during singing time, or during circle time.

My kids each went to different schools yet I still found the same opportunities to take photos. Throughout the year, there were often verbal reports the kids did. Each child had their turn to deliver the report and parents were invited. Ask one parent from each day to take photos of each child delivering their report that day. If the teacher takes his/her own photos offer to pay the developing and then make a duplicate set to include in a scrapbook.

Each year my kids participated in either a play or a sing along. Take photos and then ask other parents to also share their photos of these performances.

Throughout the year there were parties in the classroom, always needing a parent volunteer. Ask the parent volunteers to take photos and share them with you for inclusion in the scrapbook.

Field trips also require parent volunteers. Again, ask those parents for copies of photos taken during the field trip.

If you have a music program at your school, consider adding the song lyrics from the songs learned during the year. Just copy them onto acid free paper, add a border and you've got a great page.

If you get the opportunity, ask each child to write a small thank you to the teacher for the great school year and add those to the scrapbook. Those hand written messages add a wonderful touch to a gift the teacher is sure to enjoy!