YouCanMakeThis.com Applique the Easy Way Review...

About How to Applique the Easy Way:
"Maybe you think learning to appliqué is too hard or requires too much time. But, we know you love the look of professional appliquéing as much as we do, and now its time to learn how to master this fun skill for yourself. Learn to easily appliqué apparel, home décor and more. The expert author takes you through each step from start to finish, with easy to follow instructions. While it may take a touch of practice to master the technique, you’ll soon be appliquéing like a pro!
Over 20 photos help you start jazzing up everything from clothing to towels! It’s time to learn how to do fusible appliqué. Download all 3 volumes of "Christmas Doodles Applique Patterns" with a 20% savings! You'll receive the following patterns:

Volume 1:-Whimsy Snowman with VERY Tall Hat-Snowman with Heart-Whimsy Christmas Tree-Present-Stocking-Christmas Mouse

Volume 2:-Swirly Stocking-Santa-Snowman with Hat-Christmas Light-Swirly Present-Swirly Ornament-"I (heart/love) Santa!" (the author's personal favorite!)


Volume 3:-"JOY" (with an ornament)-Gingerbread Man with Hat-Reindeer with Hat-Whimsical Christmas Tree-Wreath-Snowman-Peppermint Candy

What we thought: We decided to try the "JOY" applique on a t-shirt for A. As you can see below(pardon my baby girl's sick eyes) the results were adorable and she loved her new t-shirt(yes, we are still wearing t-shirts and shorts in Texas:):

The instructions for the applique process were super easy and very nicely laid out, especially for a beginner like myself and I didn't feel overwhelmed at all! They list all the items you'll need and step-by-step instructions for the actual process with really great pictures every step of the way! The patterns are all gorgeous and we can't wait to try another one!! This was my first applique experience and I am definitely in love:) ABCD Diaries gives How to Applique the Easy way and all 3 Volumes of the Christmas doodles an A+!

Buy It: Find How to Applique the Easy Way and the full set of Christmas doodles e-patterns at YouCanMakeThis.com!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given e-patterns and e-guides for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Slooh Space Camera Launch Codes Review...

ABCD Diaries

2010 Holiday Gift Guide:

Kid's, 8+

We recntly had the chance to review some launch cards for the Slooh Space Camera.

About Slooh:
"Slooh to Map the Universe With Google Earth
New Slooh Layer in Google Earth and New Slooh Space Camera Launch Cards Empower Everyone to Contribute to Space Exploration
Sharing a joint mission to map the universe, Slooh and Google today unveiled the launch of the Slooh layer in Google Earth, a live astronomy feature that brings the power of live space exploration to Google's global audience. The new Slooh "map the universe" layer integrates Slooh's Space Camera technology and worldwide network of powerful robotic mountaintop telescopes with the Google Earth application. Anyone, regardless of age or skill level, can explore outer space in real-time and play an active role in mapping the universe.
Slooh is an online Space Camera that streams live views from robotic telescopes stationed in the Canary Islands, Chile and Australia. Slooh's patented instant imaging technology makes celestial objects appear like Polaroid images over the course of 5-minute missions. While any user of Google Earth can view images captured by the Space Camera, those with Slooh membership have the ability to control the telescopes or join predetermined featured missions. Members can capture instant digital photos, label them with their username and automatically upload to Google Earth to share with the world. Information on membership opportunities is available online.
As part of the collaboration, existing photos taken by Slooh members of more than 35,000 unique celestial objects have already been integrated into Google Earth. New images captured with the Space Camera will seamlessly integrate into Google Earth as a featured layer, in a manner similar to National Geographic and the BBC, and alongside Hubble Space Telescope and other featured observatories in the Google Earth.
In addition to featuring photos captured by Slooh members, Google will also broadcast Slooh's live astronomy missions inside Google Earth and other media properties to Google's global audiences. This feature will provide a live coverage feed of celestial events such as lunar eclipses, enhanced with audio narration by Slooh host and nationally renowned astronomy luminary Bob Berman. Since 2004, Slooh has provided live coverage of many important celestial events, including eclipses, transits, comets, and supernova discoveries, including its October 2009 coverage of NASA's LCROSS crash of a space ship into the Moon.
"We're thrilled to announce this integration with Google Earth, which fulfills our mission to promote scientific enlightenment and reconnect people with the natural world around them," said Michael Paolucci, Founder of Slooh. "Sharing the view through a live telescope is a powerful experience, one we are pleased to now share with Google's worldwide audience."
"Slooh's "map the universe" layer brings a powerful educational component to Google Earth," said Noel Gorelick, Technical Lead, Sky in Google Earth. "Not only does the ability to explore space live bring a totally new active dimension to the experience, but also gives Google users a deeper awareness of the positions of a myriad of celestial objects and the birth of galaxies in our solar system."
Slooh also announced the availability of Space Camera Launch Cards, a new retail product sold in RadioShack and Toys "R" Us stores nationwide for $9.99. The packs of 10 collectible cards give kids 8+ the chance to explore the universe by initiating live online missions to outer space. Each pack of cards come with launch codes specific to a particular category of celestial objects such as Star Cities or Sun Clusters. With the "Explore the Unknown" card kids have the power to discover and photograph celestial objects never before captured with Slooh's Space Camera. After punching the launch code into the online Launch Pad, card-users take control of the telescope and join 5-minute featured missions into space accompanied by audio commentary." What we thought: This is a really neat idea for the astronomy lover on your gift list, whether child or adult:) We did have some issues with our missions being "scrubbed" due to weather, test missions or signing on during the daylight hours for some of the stations, but once we finally went on a mission we decided it was worth the wait. The kids(who are 4 and 2) needed help on the computer, but really loved going on missions. We have been to an observatory before and A has looked through the massive telescopes, so she thought this was really neat. This website was really easy to navigate. These cards would be fun for younger kids with help, older kids to use alone or even adults...it really was interesting to B and I as well:) ABCD Diaries gives Slooh launch cards an A!

Buy It: Find these awesome launch cards at Radio Shack or Toys R Us and travel through space in the comfort of your own home!!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given launch codes for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Zegerid OTC Review...

ABCD Diaries

2010 Holiday Gift Guide:

Stocking Stuffer:)

We recently had the chance to review a bottle of Zegerid OTC which provides frequent heartburn relief.

About Zegerid OTC:

"Zegerid OTC® – the Secret Weapon Stocking Stuffer for the Frequent Heartburn Sufferer:

· For the estimated 50 million adults suffering from frequent heartburn (symptoms more than one day per week), the holidays can be anything but merry. Overindulging, particularly on triggers such as fatty meats, alcohol and chocolate, is often part of the holiday festivities kicking off heartburn.

· Even stocking stuffer treats, such as candy canes, can be tricky for frequent heartburn sufferers as peppermint is a leading heartburn food trigger. This year, holiday shoppers may want to consider a box of Zegerid OTC® capsules as a useful stocking stuffer for frequent heartburn sufferers this holiday season.

· With a proven track record as a prescription product, Zegerid OTC® is the latest proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to be available over-the-counter without a prescription. PPIs work by deactivating acid-producing pumps in the stomach, offering 24-hour relief of frequent heartburn with one dose per day as part of a 14-day course of treatment. Zegerid OTC® may take one to four days for full effect, although some people get complete relief of symptoms within 24 hours.

· “Heartburn food triggers are tough to avoid during the holidays,” explains Dr. Michael Rahmin, a leading gastroenterologist based in the New York Metropolitan area and consultant to the makers of Zegerid OTC®. “However, even frequent heartburn sufferers who keep a careful eye on what they eat may find themselves battling the burn and should be aware of treatment options.”
What we thought: I have several heartburn "trigger" foods and to review this product, I really took one for the team and for the sake of an honest review. Believe me, it was a huge sacrifice...I HAD to eat pizza, chili, jalapenos, boneless buffalo wings. It was tough:) I must say, though, Zegerid OTC worked like a champ every time! And even when I forgot to take Zegerid before and suffered the consequences afterward, Zegerid OTC came to rescue speedy quick..it started working to relieve my heartburn within minutes! Zegerid would make a great stocking stuffer this holiday season and if you are hosting holiday guests, you should consider keeping heartburn relief around for everyone's sake...you are an AWESOME hostess after all:) ABCD Diaries gives Zegerid OTC an A+!

Buy It: You can find Zegerid OTC at pharmacies, grocery stores and mass merchandisers nationwide!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a bottle of Zegerid OTC for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this review are ours and ours alone.

MyWebRC Iron-Eagle Review...

ABCD Diaries

2010 Holiday Gift Guide:

Kids, 14+

We recently had the chance to review a remote control helicopter from MyWebRC.com, the Iron-Eagle.

About the Iron-Eagle Helicopter:
"The recently launched My Web RC Iron-Eagle Helicopter, by Groovy Toys (dba Grooyi), is a radio-control toy with an online/web component. It is designed to allow children to play in two "worlds;" they can play with the rc toy and also with a virtual replica of their exact toy online. This combination of an online-game experience and radio-control toy has never been done before and Groovy Toys is happy to bring it to market.

MyWebRC is an online game where you can play with RC vehicles. MyWebRC is also a line of radio-control toys.

All you have to do to play MyWebRC is log in with your facebook, msn, myspace, google, openID or yahoo credentials. You can do this by clicking on the logo for your preferred network on the top right of the page. Once you log in you will be able to play games and pimp your RC in the garage.
You can unlock games by collecting webCash and clicking the unlock button when you have enough webCash to unlock the game you want to play.
You can collect webCash by winning Trophies, Medals, and Badges when playing games."

What we thought: B and the kids had a ton of fun with the Iron-Eagle helicopter. The kiddos were a little too young to stay engaged with the computer simulation for too long, but B loved it and it would be perfect for teen boys(or even adults:) The website was easy to navigate and the quality of the game was pretty good. The actual RC toy was a huge hit. 4 year old A even learned how to fly the helicopter by herself and 2 year old D did pretty well with a little help. B and the kids even got brave enough to fly the sturdy little helicopter outside which led to several trips to the roof...I don't recommend flying it on a windy day until you are a little more skilled:) The Iron-Eagle worked really great indoors. I was a little worried at first because it seemed so fragile, but it is amazingly resilient! I loved how fast it could charge hooked up to the USB on the computer. If you have an RC lover or a computer game fan on your gift list, we definitely suggest checking out MyWebRC.com and the Iron-Eagle Helicopter! ABCD Diaries gives them both an A+!

Buy It: Find these awesome RC toys at Fry's, Discovery Toys, and ToysRUs!! Check the full store listing here. Find out more information at MyWebRC.com.

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given an Iron-Eagle and a starter membership to MyWebRC for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Rembrandt Intense Stain/2 Hr Whitening and REACH by Design Review...

We recently had the chance to review some great oral care products from Rembrandt and REACH.

Rembrandt Intense Stain Toothpaste-
"Removes stains & restores enamel
Keep enjoying your favorite food and drinks, while you polish away stains with REMBRANDT® INTENSE STAIN™ toothpaste. The dual-action formula removes tough stains while actively restoring and strengthening tooth enamel. Formulated with a special blend of performing micro-polishers and a strong stain-fighting ingredient that helps fight tough stains like red wine, coffee and tobacco.
What it does:
-Polishes away tough tooth stains, including coffee, red wine and tobacco
-Uses a unique blend of micro-polishers and stain fighters
-Actively restores and strengthens enamel
-Originally developed by a cosmetic dentist"

Rembrandt 2-Hr Whitener-

"Visibly whiter teeth in just one 2-hour treatment
Brighten your smile with the only 2 Hour Whitening Kit on the market that visibly whitens your teeth in just one 2-hour treatment! Get a whiter, brighter smile in just 2 hours, today.
What it does:
-Visibly whitens teeth in just one 2-hour treatment
-Same enamel-safe ingredient dentists use
-Exclusive COMFYTRAY® applicators designed for a comfortable, customized whitening experience"

REACH by Design Toothbrushes-

"Reach advanced design toothbrush, soft, value pack. With Bi-level bristles that clean and remove plaque from the tooth surface and along the gum line.

Product Features-
-Bi-level bristles clean and remove plaque from the tooth surface and along the gum line
-Angled neck
-Ergonomic grip" What we thought: I was really impressed with the Intense Stain toothpaste. The difference was noticeable within a week. The 2 hr whitener was great as well and produced excellent results. It was easy-to-use and so quick, for such great results. The REACH toothbrushes were bright and colorful and I loved the designs:) It definitely brightens up your morning when you brush with a cute, patterned toothbrush:) We really enjoyed using the Rembrandt and REACH products and we think they would make wonderful stocking stuffers this holiday season! ABCD Diaries gives Rembrandt and REACH an A+!!

Buy It: Find these awesome Rembrandt and REACH products at your local grocery store or mass merchandiser!!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given product samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

The Changing Colors of Amos Review...

We recently had the chance to review a new children's book, The Changing Colors of Amos, by John Kinyon.

The Changing Colors of Amos

by John Kinyon

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 24 pages
Publisher: Cherished Publications LLC; 1 edition (April 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0978786602
ISBN-13: 978-0978786601

Product Description:
"SPREAD THE NEWS OF AMOS FAR AND WIDE! Of all the leprechauns who have ever lived, he is amazingly unique. Amos changes color with every new day of the week. But his Sundays are a mystery. Sunday's colors are always found first in his dreams. And in Amos's world, dreams often do come true. Follow Amos as he explores the colorful delights that each day brings."

What we thought: The kiddos really loved this colorful book. The rhythm and rhyme made the story fun to read and kept their attention, as did the beautifully illustrated pictures. This book is definitely helpful in teaching little ones colors, days of the week and originality. ABCD Diaries gives The Changing Colors of Amos an A+!

Buy It: Find this colorful book at your favorite book seller!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a copy of this book for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

CEIVA Pro 80 Review...

ABCD Diaries

2010 Holiday Gift Guide:

Grandparents, Across the Miles

We recently had the chance to review a CEIVA digital photo frame, the CEIVA Pro 80.

About the CEIVA Pro 80:

"CEIVA Pro 80™ - Designed for photo enthusiasts who want more ways to access their entire photo collection, the CEIVA Pro 80 offers built-in Media Server connectivity to let you stream photos instantly from your computer over your home network. You can also connect at the speed of Wi-Fi (included) or optional broadband for fast access to new slideshows sent directly from friends and family located anywhere across the world. Also featuring a high-res 8" display, memory card reader, Wi-Fi adapter, intuitive on-screen menus and interchangeable faceplates to suit any home or office setting, the CEIVA Pro 80 is far different from any ordinary digital photo frame.
Features Include:
-Phone and Wi-Fi connectivity
-Media Server connectivity (learn more)
-Built-in memory card reader
-Interchangeable black and wood-finish faceplates (included) or custom skin designs (optional via skinit.com)
-Easy-to-use on screen menu to control display modes, rotation and deletion, slideshow transition and timing, screen on and off times and more.
-Perfect True-to-Photo™ display (no stretching, cropping or squishing)
-PicturePlan photo delivery service required — 1 year included
-Invite friends and family to send photos to your frame from anywhere in the world — for free.
-Unlimited photo storage and customization, channel selections (news, weather, calendar, sports & more) and greeting cards.
-PicturePlan Lifetime Warranty (if it breaks, we fix it for free*) * Customer pays return postage
Tech Specs-

Screen: High resolution, 8-inch active matrix digital LCD screen

-Aspect Ratio: 4:3

-Display Resolution: 640 x 480

-Height: 8.5"Width: 10"

-Depth: 3"

-Weight: 3 lbs

-Media Server Support: PC with Vista, Windows Media Player 11, Macintosh with additional media server software

-Memory Card Support: Compact Flash®, Memory Stick®, Memory Stick PRO™, Memory Stick Duo™, Memory Stick PRO Duo™, Secure Digital™, SmartMedia™, MultiMedia Card™, Microdrive®, xD-Picture Card™, miniSD™ Card (some cards require an adapter)

Ongoing Deals at CEIVA:

· CEIVA Pro80 Starter Pack (includes one-year PicturePlan Photo Delivery Service and WiFi adapter)- $119.95
· CEIVAshare Starter Pack (includes one-year PicturePlan Photo Delivery Service)- $99.95 (Wifi adapter optional)
· Free shipping for orders over $99.
· Purchase any two frames (not including outlet items) and receive $10 off.
· Purchase any three frames (not including outlet items) and receive $20 off.

Social media links:
www.facebook.com/ceivalogic - Corporate page with notifications and news.
www.facebook.com/ceivajoe - Social media guru’s page – CEIVA Joe.
www.youtube.com/ceivajoe -You can find tutorials and reviews in their channel.
www.twitter.com/ceiva - Corporate.
http://www.twitter.com.ceivajoe/ - CEIVA Joe.


What we thought: Our CEIVA Pro 80 is AWESOME! It was easy to set up and holds a ton of pictures. The quality of the images is better than any digital photo frame we've used. The large screen makes for superior viewing. I loved that our frame came with both a brown and black face so it was easy to match up with our decor. Sharing photos is super easy. This would be a great gift for a mom or grandma, because you can continue to give year round by sending new pictures whenever you like. The CEIVA Pro 80 is a very versatile frame and would be a great investment this holiday season to give as a gift or to keep for yourself:) ABCD Diaries gives the CEIVA Pro 80 digital photo frame an A+!

Buy It: Find these awesome frames at CEIVA, but don't wait! The awesome deals they are offering right now won't last forever:)

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a frame for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

HOPELights Magazine Review...

ABCD Diaries

2010 Holiday Gift Guide:

Special Needs Children

We recently had the chance to review a magazine written especially for special needs kiddos, HOPELights.

About HOPELights:

"We provide a customized monthly activity magazine for children with a variety of special needs. Each publication comes to the mailbox customized with the child's name and inspires joy, inclusion and learning!
We have designed our magazine with soothing harmonic colors, customization of the child's name and activities that inspire confidence for children that are unique, special and worth the extra mile.
Just as High-Lights™ is for typical needs kids, HOPELights™ is for kids with Special Needs.

Features:
-Monthly Activity Magazine with Your Child’s Name
-Simplistic fun design for all ages
-From Autistic Spectrum Disorders to Cerebral Palsy we have something for everyone
-Free Monthly Inspirational Postcards for Parents and Caregivers
-Free On-Line Library of up-to-date links ad resources
-Inspirational Quotes, designed specifically to keep your heart strong
-A Minute of Hope email newsletter for everyone

Our Mission: To fill the hearts of special needs children and the people that love them with joy and hope.
Hope Light Media is a website filled with teacher and parent educational services, toys and resources for kids with special needs that have been diagnosed with autism, down syndrome, cerebral palsy and many other chronic childhood challenges through a customize monthly magazine. We offer toys, products and service links for children with special needs and those that love them.

HOPELights will match December-start subscriptions with an annual subscription of HOPELights and Notes of Hope for a child in Pediatric Hospice for one year in the U.S. or Canada."


What we thought: This magazine was a lot of fun. A loved that is came personalized with her name on the cover:) She really enjoyed reading through the magazine and completing the activities. Our issue of HOPELights covered several topics, but kept the kiddo's attention by being interesting and concise. The pages were visually appealing without being overwhelming and the instructions were simple and easy-to-understand. I also love HOPELights dedication to the parents of special needs children...the monthly postcards are very inspirational and thoughtful gesture:) A subscription to HOPELights would be perfect for the special needs child on your gift-giving list this holiday season. ABCD Diaries gives HOPELights an A+!


Buy It: Check out the website, blog and Facebook pages for HOPELights to get more information on how to give this magazine as a gift this holiday season!!


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a sample magazine for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Oneida Culinaria Review...

ABCD Diaries

2010 Holiday Gift Guide:

Entertaining

We recently had the chance to review a beautiful set of Culinaria dinnerware from Oneida.

About Culinaria:

"A Brilliant Statement. Enhance your table with the Culinaria dinnerware collection, a solid color pattern that has long wearing durability. Circular banding and a Restaurant Rolled Edge line the outer portion of this mid-rim shape, providing a pleasing tactile quality along with easy handling. Culinaria offers a broad color palette, so designing your own custom table presentation will be effortless.

Features:

-Twice fired, Vitrified durable stoneware, glass-like finish
-Dishwasher and microwave safe

Caring for your Oneida Dinnerware:

These everyday dishes are easy to care for and most pieces are both dishwasher and microwave safe. You may want to wash oversized platters or more delicate pieces by hand. Always use a gentle, non-citrus detergent. Use care when loading the machine so that no piece can rub or bump against another during the wash cycle. Allow your dinnerware to dry and cool completely before removing.

What we thought: Our Culinaria dishes were beautiful! I loved that they were dishwasher-safe and the sizes of the dishes allow for plenty of food:) I especially love the cups...they fit my hand perfectly, though B thought they were a little hard to handle. These dishes would be perfect for daily use or entertaining purposes. They are practical, yet stylish and perfect for your holiday gatherings! The variety of colors is sure to have something for everyone and you can create a really beautiful table setting with Culinaria. ABCD Diaries gives Oneida's Culinaria line an A+!

Buy It: Find this colorful line of dishes and other quality kitchenware at Oneida.com, Kohl's, Target and other retailers near you!!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a set of dishes for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Espolon Mexican Tequila Review...

ABCD Diaries

2010 Holiday Gift Guide:

Adults Who Enjoy Spirits:)

We recently had the opportunity to review Espolon Mexican Tequila.

About Espolon:
"Dull, clichéd gifts are exchanged between dull, clichéd people; a person with good taste in spirits is a person with good taste in friends, which is why we’d like to suggest Espolón Tequila for your gift guide.Rich in iconic imagery, the photogenic packaging of this cult-favorite tequila is inspired by 19th century Mexican artistry, and celebrates Mexico’s storied culture as well as the iconic rooster– a symbol of national pride. Crafted with 100% pure Blue Agave,Espolón Tequila is available in two premium expressions – Blanco and Reposado. And with a price under $25, it means you might be able to gift yourself as well."

What we thought: We sampled both the Gold and Blanco tequilas. The Gold was really great in Mexican martinis and margaritas with just the right kick...definitely refreshing:) The Blanco could have been a little smoother for our tastes, but worked really well in Tequila Sunrises. Espolon is definitely worth a try if you enjoy tequila and would make a really great gift for the holidays. Espolon would also be great for entertaining this holiday season and is super affordable. ABCD Diaries gives Espolon Tequilas an A!

Buy It: Find these delicious tequilas at your favorite adult beverage retailer!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given 2 bottles of tequila for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Hasbro Action Figures for the Holidays Review...

ABCD Diaries

2010 Holiday Gift Guide:

Boys, 4+

We recently had the chance to review a couple of Hasbro action figures geared towards school aged boys.
TRANSFORMERS POWER CORE COMBINERS: HUFFER with CALIBURST
"Approx. Retail: $9.99
Ages: 5 & Up
With CALIBURST by his side, HUFFER is just as inclined to grumble as he’s ever been, but he’s also faster, stronger, and smarter, which means the DECEPTICONS have a lot more to complain about than he does.

Power up for the ultimate robot battles! Your HUFFER figure is already a virtually unstoppable opponent in his vehicle and robot modes. But his strength gets doubled when you factor in your CALIBURST figure and his four modes! Convert this MINI-CON ally figure to weapon accessories for him when he’s in truck vehicle mode or Commander mode. Then, convert your CALIBURST figure into an armor accessory for your HUFFER figure’s Power Up Mode! And the action doesn’t stop there. With this Power Core interchangeable robot combination system, MINI-CONS and drone vehicles (sold separately) can attach to power up any Commander figure. Collect more packs and you can create tons of unique and fierce robot battler figure combinations!
Exciting two-pack of robot figures includes HUFFER robot-to-vehicle figure and MINI-CON figure with four modes! CALIBURST figure converts from robot to weapon accessory for HUFFER figure vehicle mode, weapon accessory for HUFFER figure robot mode and armor accessory for HUFFER figure Power-Up mode.
Ages 5 and up."


Spider-Man - Blaster Armor Spider-Man

"Approx. Retail: $6.99
Ages: 4 & Up
/!\WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD-Small Parts. Not For Children Under 3 Years.
Wherever villains are found, you and your Spider-Man figure can team up to defeat them! Suit up your hero in his “armor” so he’s prepared for action. When the evil-doers are finally in sight, make this mighty warrior launch his “missile” accessory and fight until the bitter end!
Figure comes with armor and launching web accessories and three Fiercest Foes battle cards.
Ages 4 and up"

What we thought: D(who is 2) really enjoyed playing with these, though they do have small pieces so they are definitely more appropriate for older boys. The action figures we reviewed have been toddler tested and are still in working order, but we already knew that Hasbro toys were well-made:) D especially liked the Transformer...he is really into trucks, so it was right up his alley. Though he wasn't able to transform it, I was, which means a 5 year old boy would have no trouble:) If you are looking for affordable stocking stuffers for a young boy who likes action figures, Hasbro has plenty to choose from:) ABCD Diaries gives Hasbro action figures an A+!

Buy It: Find these fun action figures at mass merchandisers nationwide!!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a salsa sampler for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Laura Ashley Innov-is NX-800 Brother Sewing Machine Review...

ABCD Diaries

2010 Holiday Gift Guide:

DIY Gifts using a sewing machine

We recently had the amazing opportunity to review a Brother sewing machine, the Limited Edition Laura Ashley Innov-is NX-800.

About the Laura Ashley Limited Edition NX-800:

"The new Laura Ashley Limited Edition NX-800 sewing machine, which offers outstanding performance in both sewing and quilting, is the second Laura Ashley licensed machine from Brother. The Laura Ashley Limited Edition NX-800 showcases the latest in technological advancements with almost endless stitch possibilities to accommodate large home décor projects, elaborate garment construction, quilting and typical everyday sewing tasks. User-friendly features include: an easy to use-automatic threading system, 10 buttonhole styles, a Quick-Set™ bobbin, enhanced fabric feed, and an LCD display screen. The machine has 138 built-in sewing stitches and three sewing fonts. Sideways sewing can be used with either straight or zigzag stitches, perfect for sewing patches and appliqués. The My Custom Stitch™ feature is also included and is used to combine and alter pre-set stitches. Plus, 10 memory pockets let users store created stitches for later use. Today’s sewing and quilting enthusiasts will love putting “a touch of English in every stitch” with this Laura Ashley inspired sewing machine.
Main Features
-Available at Authorized Innov-ís Dealers Only
-138 built-in sewing stitches, including 10 styles of one-step buttonholes
-3 sewing fonts
-Easy stitch selection via 10 digit pad
-My Custom Stitch™ feature with memory pockets for saving stitches
-Wide table and quilting accessories included
-Easy to read LCD display screen
-Sideways sewing

What we thought: I am in love with this machine! Here are a few pictures of a quilt I've started on to give as a gift this Christmas:

Can you tell I've been busy? :) This machine is amazing! It is easy-to-use and I'm loving the LCD screen, which my last machine didn't have...this one is a complete upgrade:) The number of functions is crazy ridiculous. Seriously, the possibilities with this wonderful machine are endless, so if the blog goes by the wayside, you'll know I've run off with my Laura Ashley Innov-is NX 800:) This machine is great for crafters at any stage of their craft and covers a lot of crafting ground:) Can you tell I'm positively gushing?! Brother has a sewing machine to fit everyone's needs and what better way to save money and add that hand-crafted touch to your Christmas gifts this year than to whip up something special for all your special someones? You could even use your sewing machine for holiday decorating...way cheaper and more satisfying than buying a new tablecloth and napkins:) I am planning on giving several handmade gifts this holiday season and I'll be keeping you posted over the next few months with updates on the results of my affair with the Innov-is NX 800:) Stay tuned later this week for a review of a wonderful new pattern I've found for holiday applique...now time to get to work...the holidays will be here sooner than you think!!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a machine for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Huge Holiday Gift Pack Giveaway...

“What exactly is CUPONK? The object: sink your ball into the cup and light it up. Get it in and you’ll hear the sweet sounds of victory, YEAH! You rock. Miss the shot and your friends get the chance to one-up you. When playing CUPONK your entire home can become a legitimate playing field. Tables, walls, chairs – IT’S ON! Test out sick trick shots like Off The Deep End, Blind Hook and Rick O’Shea. What you don’t like the names? Okay tough guy, make up your own!
Show your skill and sink sick shots. Features lights killer zombie sounds! Includes 1 CUPONK cup, 2 CUPONK balls, 30 trick cards, a backboard accessory and instruction guide.”
Requires 3 AAA batteries (not included). For 1 or more player(s). Ages 9 and up.


GirlTalk Sparkle Spots Game
"Grab a spot & show your friends what ya got! 20 prizes! Win glam bracelets!
What will you say or do... when it's all up to you? Pick a category Spill it! If you could be anyone - who would it be? Do it! Walk like a crab! Say It! Talk like a pirate! Act it! Pretend you're horseback riding & your butt is sore! Show your stuff! What do your friends think about what you said or did? Take turns judging & collect cool bracelets for being the most creative...silliest...and best performer!
Includes: 45 Challenge Cards, 6 Category Cards, 20 Bracelets, instructions
For 3-4 players
Ages 8 and up"
“Introducing My Way!® The New ARM & HAMMER® Spinbrush® that comes with over 140 stickers – for decorating fun that’s always worth smiling about!”

“Emergen-C® old school! Our original formula and still our best seller, featuring 24 nutrients, including 1,000 mg of immune supporting vitamin C,* 7 B vitamins to enhance energy naturally* (no caffeine, no crash), electrolytes to refuel and replenish post-workout,* and more!”

Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer
"Kills 99.99% of the most common germs that may cause illness.
Use anytime, anyplace, without water or towels.
Leaves hands feeling refreshed without a sticky residue"

Scotch Adhesive Dot Roller Refill – “When you want to create great looking paper craft projects like scrapbooking and cardmaking, use the Scotch® Adhesive Dot Roller. The permanent dot adhesive applies precisely and smoothly to the end of the roll. Refilling is fast and easy with no threading! Precise application straight or curved. No stringing. Photo safe.”

Buy It: Find all of these products at mass merchandisers nationwide!!

Win It: One ABCD Diaries reader will win a Prize Pack with all of the items featured above! (Includes: Cuponk, Girl Talk Game, Emergen-C, My Way! Spinbrush, Scotch Adhesive Dot Roller Refill, and Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer) To enter, leave a comment below telling us which product you are most excited about trying:)
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Giveaway ends Thursday, December 9, 2010 at 11:59cst. Winner will be chosen via random.org and emailed. They will have 48 hours to reply. Open to US residents 18+:)

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given these products for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.