My Pink Planet Blog

Josefina will be celebrating her birthday on March 19.  Will you be celebrating with her?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftC5QcxqYps&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wk6SCRo7CvA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fvd55TdNgz4&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tO-eIh4my6U

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-c3GxL5ZgE&feature=related

Enjoy, have fun girls!

I came across this great article from PBS Parents.  I knew that I had to share it with all you moms and tweens.   

How do you raise a powerful girl and what does that mean?

Powerful girls grow up feeling secure in themselves. They learn to take action, making positive choices about their own lives and doing positive things for others. They think critically about the world around them. They express their feelings and acknowledge the feelings and thoughts of others in caring ways. Powerful girls feel good about themselves and grow up with a “can-do” attitude. Of course, strong girls may (like all of us) have times of insecurity and self-doubt, but these feelings aren’t paralyzing because the girls have learned to work through their problems. Powerful girls will grow up to lead full, valuable lives.

Here are some of our experts’ ideas to help you raise powerful daughters.

Encourage your daughter to pursue a passion.
“Full engagement with an activity she loves will give her the opportunity to master challenges, which will boost her self-esteem and resilience and affirm intrinsic values rather than appearance,” says Rachel Simmons, author of Odd Girl Out. “Having a passion lets her go shoot baskets or play an instrument, for example, instead of being swept up in online drama.”

Let her have a voice in making decisions.
“Whenever possible, let her make constructive choices about her life. Let her choose her own clothes, within appropriate limits. Give her a voice in what after-school activities she participates in and how many she wants to do (as long as it works for the rest of the family, too). Remember that knowing what she cares about most will come from trying some things and finding she doesn’t like them, as well as from finding things she loves to do,” recommends Jane Katch, Ed.D., author of They Don’t Like Me. “Your daughter might need to make a commitment for a short time for an activity (one soccer season) but when that’s over, it’s okay to try something different!”

Identify the values most important to your family.
“Consider the ways you convey these values, especially by example. What are the moments in your daily life when you can model the values you want your daughter to learn?” asks Simmons. “What traits and strengths do you want your daughter to develop as she grows?” asks Meg White, M.A. “See if these qualities are reflected in how you parent.”

Encourage her to solve issues on her own rather than fixing things for her.
“When parents take over, girls don’t develop the coping skills they need to handle situations on their own. Ask your daughter to consider three strategies she might use to deal with a situation, and then ask her about the possible outcomes. Let her decide what she wants to do (within reason). Even if you disagree with her choice, you give your daughter a sense of control over her life and show her that she is responsible for her decisions,” says Simmons.

Encourage her to take physical risks.
“Girls who avoid risks have poorer self-esteem than girls who can and do face challenges,” says JoAnn Deak, Ph.D., author of Girls Will Be Girls. “Urge your daughter to go beyond her comfort zone — for example, encourage a girl who’s scared to ride her bike downhill to find just a small hill to conquer first.” Catherine Steiner-Adair, Ed.D., co-author of Full of Ourselves: A Wellness Program to Advance Girl Power, Health and Leadership, agrees. “It’s important to help even non-athletic girls develop some physical competence and confidence when they’re young. Whether it’s through team or individual sports, girls need to form a physical relationship with their body that builds confidence.”

Get girls working together.
“Girls who work cooperatively in school or who problem-solve together do much better in taking large risks or facing challenges. These girls report an incredible sense of accomplishment and feeling of competence, both of which give a huge boost to self-esteem,” says Deak. “Encourage your daughter to participate in team-building activities or join organizations that rely on teamwork.”

Let your daughter know you love her because of who she is, not because of what she weighs or how she looks.
“Encourage your girl to eat in healthy ways, but don’t over-obsess over what she eats. Listen to her opinions (about food, and other things) and show appreciation for her uniqueness, to help her develop herself into the person she wants to be,” says Steiner-Adair. “Comment on the way she carries herself into a room or the ideas she is expressing before commenting on her looks. She needs you to know her insides and validate the developing person within, as well as noticing her emerging young womanhood,” adds White.

Allow her to disagree with you and get angry.
“Raising a powerful girl means living with one. She must be able to stand up to you and be heard, so she can learn to do the same with classmates, teachers, a boyfriend, or future bosses,” says White. Lyn Mikel Brown, Ed.D., and Sharon Lamb, Ed.D., co-authors of Packaging Girlhood, write, “Girls need guidance about how to stay clear in their disagreements, and they need support for not giving up their convictions to maintain a false harmony. Help girls to make considered choices about how to express their feelings, and to whom.” Steiner-Adair notes that “Not all girls will want to do this, especially shy girls, but you can still help them develop the skills.”

Address girl fighting when you see it.
“Talk with girls about relational violence (such as gossip, rumor-spreading and exclusion) as well as physical violence (hitting or fighting). But don’t assume all girls are mean, and avoid saying ‘girls will be girls’ when you witness girls engaging in exclusive cliques and clubs. Instead, affirm girls’ relational strengths and sense of fairness, help them identify and hold on to their strong feelings, like anger, and encourage them to practice more direct, positive ways to effect change in their relationships,” says Brown.

Make regular time to listen to your girl.
“By creating consistent, predictable times when she knows that you are receptive and available to listen — like riding in a car, taking a walk, or just sitting reading — you will eventually be let into her inner world. Let her use you as a sounding board to sort out what she is going through, without solving problems for her. The answers that come from within her are the ones she will eventually live by,” says White.

Listen more than you talk.
“When we talk to girls, they often experience it as us talking at them, and they not only stop listening, they stop thinking and reflecting. But when we listen to them, they have to think about what they are saying, and they tend to reflect more. And we need to keep an open dialogue — we can’t dismiss their chatter about ups and downs of friendship as trivial, and then expect them to talk to us about the important stuff,” says Lawrence Cohen, Ph.D., co-author of Mom, They’re Teasing Me.

Limit your daughter’s exposure to the media and popular culture when she is young.
“This will give her more time to develop her own ideas, creativity, and imagination from her direct first-hand experience. As she grows, media messages will start to get in, so having rules and routines from the start can help your daughter control her own experiences as she gets older,” says Diane Levin, Ph.D, author of So Sexy So Soon.

Help her process the messages in the media.
“Help her avoid the narrow focus on appearance and consumerism that often dominates the media. By helping your daughter process the messages she sees on the screen and develop her own ideas about them, you can prepare her to better resist the media’s pervasive stereotypes,” says Levin. “Help her notice the bigger picture — for example, how looking like her latest teen idol can be fun but also connects her with a lot of other stuff she might not have noticed or thought about. Wonder aloud about more general patterns you see, like how all those little purses hanging from everything might make it seem that all girls, even three-year-olds, are into shopping,” add Brown and Lamb.

Talk with her about the differences between sex in the movies and loving relationships in real life.
“It’s important to talk with your daughter about sex and sexuality in ways appropriate to her age and your values,” says Levin. “As she gets older it becomes increasingly important to help your daughter understand the difference between sexualized images in the media and healthy sexuality. Through give-and-take discussion, you can help her begin to understand the difference between the media’s presentation of sex and sexiness. You can talk about how sex is frequently portrayed without love, intimacy or emotion, or as part of caring relationships. When your daughter is old enough, you can begin to discuss what a mature, healthy, loving relationship — in which sex is a part — is all about.”

Acknowledge her struggles but keep a sense of perspective.
“We have to acknowledge the pain our daughters are experiencing, so they feel heard and accepted and empathized with. But we also need to put it into perspective, to stay calm and listen to what they are experiencing without projecting our own experiences onto theirs. Your daughter is having a different experience than you did, even if there are surface similarities,” says Cohen. “After all, she has something you didn’t have: you.”

Enjoy her!
“Having a powerful girl can be exciting and energizing. Find activities you both enjoy and do them regularly together. Maybe you both like cooking or having breakfast together, hiking or reading books,” says Katch. “Try to keep this connection as she gets older — if times ever get tough, you’ll appreciate this special bond you share!”

I found this great video on how to remove pen and sharpie ink stains from your American Girl Doll.   I personally have not tried this nor I so far needed to but I do get emails from time to time asking how to remove sharpie marker stains. 

 We enjoyed reading all the great essays. The huge responses and overwhelming feedback has been fabulous.   The love and passion that you Real American Girls share with your pets are touching  and wonderful.  Now for the moment many have been waiting for.   Here are the winners of the “Why My Pet is The Best In The World” Contest.

 Angie Walker  Age 6  Indianapolis, IN

My kitty is the best kitty in the world because he loves me.  My kitty’s name is  Mr. Wiggles.  He is cute and soft like a marshmellow.  He licks me and sleeps with me and keeps me cozy at night and also follows me everywhere.  I love Mr. Wiggles and he loves me too! 

Alexa Morante  Age 9  NewYork, NY

My dog is the best pet in the world because she is playful.  For example, she will play with me and their is no fuss.  She obeys each and every command.  She is loving and adorable.  She is a sweetheart and she enjoys human life.    Lia is the best dog in the world because her ability’s are amazing!    But most of all my dog is the best in the world because she loves me and I love her to.  Priceless!

  Jordan Langworthy  Age 11

My horse, Rain is a Missouri Fox Trotter and the sweetest horse in the world.  He is very gentle and friendly, and loves children. Even my 5 year old  brother can ride when my mom leads!
He is a 6 year old gelding, and is very attentive, however he tends to be  really jumpy sometimes!
He is a Tri-Color horse, meaning that he has three colors. His colors are Tan, Black and White. Oh, and I saved the best reason for last;  Why My Pet is the Best in the World, is because he is my very best friend, the one who understands me. He’ll always be there to listen and look at me with those big brown eyes, to be happy or just to sympathize. I love him so much!

We thank you Real American Girls for your participation.  Remember to contact us to claim your prize.  Stay tune for our next contest and giveaway.  Share this blog with your friends and family. 

This year’s Chinese New Year, celebrate the year of the dragon.   Here’s a cool red chinese outfit perfect for your 18 inch doll. 

What is Chinese new year about?   

Chinese New Year is a holiday that celebrates the beginning of a new year according to the lunar calendar. It is considered to be one of the most important holidays for Chinese families.   Family gathering, gift giving, symbolic foods, and beautiful colorful  festive decorations.   In China the celebration last for a month.   Some chinese traditions for Chinese New Year are:

1. Clean house from top to bottom.  It is believe doing so, will ward off any bad luck in the future and rid of any bad luck from the previous year.    The cleaning must be completed by New Year’s eve and ready to recieve good luck in the coming year.

2. Decorating the house .  Families hang up posters and signs on doors and windows with the word “FU” written on them.     Fu means luck and happiness.   Flowers is also another favorites and symbolizes the coming of spring, a new beginning.   

3.  Family gathering at the table.   On New Year’s eve, family visits are common and having a huge dinner.   They serve about 8 or nine dishes, partly beacuse of their lucky numbers.   The Chinese word for 8 is “baat”  prosperity and fortune.   nine = longlasting, often used for weddings.

4. Giving good luck gifts is another tradition.   Adults hand out to children little red envelopes “hong bao” filled with money.  This symbolizes wealth and prosperity for the coming year.   

5. Red and gold are lucky colors.  Black and white are never worn on Chinese New Year, they bring bad luck during the holiday.

Find out what animal zodiac are you below:

Good Luck Goldfish Craft  – compliments of Familyfun.com

Prep Time: Afternoon or Evening
What you need:
	Tissue paper Goldfish template Plastic wrap Glue Scissors
Seasons: New years, Winter
Materials: glue, tissue paper
Instructions:
1.	To make one, first draw a large goldfish outline with a 1/2-inch-thick border on an 8 1/2- by 11-inch sheet of colored card stock and cut it out. (You can also print a template.)
2.	For the scales, fold a 1- by 6-inch strip of colored tissue paper in half 3 times. Leaving the folded sides uncut, trim the paper into a crescent shape, then unfold the paper for a chain of colorful, wavelike shapes. Repeat with as many colors as you like.
3.	Next, tape a large piece of plastic wrap to your work surface and slip the fish outline underneath it. Use a paintbrush to spread white glue onto the wrap. Lay the tissue paper strips vertically over the fish, trimming them as needed, overlapping them and alternating colors for a vibrant mix of scales. Gently brush more glue over the tissue paper strips once they’re in place.
4.	When you’ve covered the fish, remove the outline from beneath the plastic and set it in place atop the scales. Add more glue for a stronger hold, if necessary. Let the glue dry overnight, then trim the excess tissue paper and plastic wrap from around the fish and hang it in a window.

Congratulations are in order to Stephanie McCabe, Va and Allison Dolan, NY.  They are both, the winners of $25 Gift Certificate contest.  Contact us to claim your prize. 

Lindsey Bergman is an ordinary 10 year old girl living with her family, best friend, bullies,  her lazy Uncle Bernie, and her cute little dachshund named Mr. Tiny.   She is a sweet girl who loves helping people.  In this story, She plays matchmaker with her two teachers Mr. Pingler and Miss Kinney.  She saves a girl named April from being bullied by two bullies and becomes friends with her.  Her uncle stays to live with her, she get accused of a crime because she put smiley face stickers on the neighborhood garbage cans, and last but not least her dog  Mr. Tiny goes missing!  Her brother Ethan and her Mother are trying to plan Ethan’s bar mitzvah.  I recommend this book if you really want to have a big, happy laugh.  This was one awesome book!

I give this book

Lindsey, written by Chryssa Atkinson

Arianna and I love baking especially during the holidays.  We are always in search of new cool recipes and ideas.    We came across this recipes which we are excited to try out and share with you.  We also want to thank AllRecipes staff for sharing.   What we found exciting, is that it’s a great replacement for cards and candies.  What a fun project for mom and her real american girl. 

Checkout the video on how they tweak the original recipes.

http://allrecipes.com/HowTo/Baking-Kids-Valentines-Day-Treats-Video/detail.aspx

Prep Time: 35 Min / Cook Time:  7 Min /  Ready In: 2 Hrs 42 Min

 

One of the volunteers, came out with a box and to our amazement, there were over 350 adorable baby sea turtles.  Everyone who participated had to rub their hands in sand before taking a baby sea turtle.  As we all stood facing the ocean, everyone placed a baby sea turtle on the sand.   We watch these beautiful creatures crawl slowly in to the huge body of water.  Although, some did need coaching.  

You must be wondering, where are all these baby sea turtles come from?  The mother sea turtles return to the beach and lay their eggs, roughly 50 to 200 eggs.  Everyday eggs are hatched and they cover their eggs in the sand and return back to sea.  That is were the organization come in.  Volunteers from the organization carefully retrieves the eggs and once they are hatched, they are returned to sea.  The female sea turtles will hopefully return to the exact location where they were led to sea and hatch their eggs.     Amazing,  isn’t it?

Mexico, one of the few countries where sea turtles find a safety haven return.  Thanks to theses  incredible people who are passionated and those eager to participate for an experience, a true National Geographic moment.

That evening, we walked away with a sense of an incredible respect for nature and proud to be part of this beautiful, exciting and  captivating experience.  We wonder upon our next return to Nuevo Vallarta, if one of those mommy Sea Turtles were released as babies from us.

Here are some helpful tips that you can contribute here in the states:

• Never buy a turtle or tortoise,  it will only increase the demand from the wild.
• Adopt from a rescue group
• Don’t take turtles or tortoises from the wild unless they are sick or injured.
• If they are crossing a busy street, pick them up and send them in the same direction they were going; if you try to make them go back, they will turn right around again.
• Write letters to your legislators asking them to keep sensitive habitat preserved or closed to off-road vehicles.
• Report cruelty or illegal sales of turtles and tortoises to your local animal control department, such as Fish & Game or the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
• Report any turtle or tortoise of any kind less than four inches in size being sold at pet stores or mercado i.e.  market, ”supermercado” or supermarket.  This practice is illegal everywhere in the U.S. 

Here are just a few cute items in our store that are pet related.

These adorable soft plush furry slippers are too cute to pass. 

This backpack is not only soft but the puppy plush is a must have.  Puppy is cuddly soft and easily detaches from backpack. 

And for the kitty cat lovers, here’s one of Arianna’s favorite

Whimisical

Table & Chair set

A great tween gift, whose passion is horses

This month we are running an essay contest and there will be 3 winners. One from each age category listed below.

We  want to hear you, Real American Girls.  Write an essay “Why My Pet is the Best in the World”  If you do not have a pet,   “Why you would want a pet and why it would be the best in the world”.

There will be one winner from each age group.
5 thru 7
8 thru 10
11 thru 14

Participants who wish to enter must submit their essay to mail@mypinkplanet.com   Submission must include your name, age and state.    You may also submit photos of your favorite pet and it may be posted on our blog.   Deadline for your essay to be recieved is no later than February 14th midnight.   Winners will be announced on February 17th on the blog.   Winner, must return to the blog to claim their prize.   Don’t forget to mark your calendar.   Bookmark us http://www.mypinkplanetblog.com

Winners will recieve this beautiful Pink Petal Fairy Costume
includes:
Pink petal fairy dress
Pink ribbon flower headband

Hugs and good luck!

This month is exciting. We are running 2 contests and there will be a total of five winners.

You have made many purchases from our store. As part of our marketing, we would love to know what your reviews are on the products you have purchase from our store and help us determine if the product should be returned to our store. Your reviews are important to us and as to each and every one of you. Customers love to hear reviews as well so that when a customer considers purchasing an item from our store they can get personal feedback on the item. Let’s start with our first contest.

$25 Gift Certificate Contest
Our first contest will consist of 2 winners, yes 2 winners Every product review is considered an entry. You can only review a product that you have purchased from My Pink Planet.com For every product review you write in our store, you will receive one entry into our random drawing for the $25 gift certificate. If you find that the product is no longer available due to stock, you can post your review on our blog, as long as you post the product number. We then will post your review once the product is available.

It’s simple to post a review. Go to the product page in the store and click on “Create a Review”. All reviews must be posted by midnight on February 7th 2010. Two winners will be randomly chosen by Arianna and announced on our blog on February 8th. Winner, must return to the blog to claim their prize. Don’t forget to mark your calendar. Bookmark us http://www.mypinkplanetblog.com

Here’s a promo code ICE2010 enter at checkout and recieve 5% off total order to get you started or increase your entry.

Stay tuned, we ill be posting our next exciting contest, which will consist of three winners.

Like many young girls, 10 year old Lanie loves to explore in her backyard for world adventures.   Her favorite subjects are science and nature.    Learn more about Lanie, a bubbly and energetic girl.  There two books, Lanie and Lanie’s Real Adventure Book.  Available at  American Girl. 

GOTY 2010 Celebration Bash  at the store nearest you.

At this event, American girl offers a meal , activities, nature crafts and an introduction to Lanie.  Reservation are required.  For more info, click on the links below.

• Atlanta - February 28
• Boston - January 31; February 26; March 24
• Chicago - January 18
• Dallas -  January 10, 29
• Los Angeles -  January 18
• New York -  February 5; March 26; April 22

American Girl is giving a free goody bag to the first 100 girls in line starting  January 1, 2010 continuing that weekend.  During this weekend there will be great activities such as hands on crafts and fun prizes and best an introduction to the new GOTY.  Check out the location nearest you:

Event details by store

• Atlanta: January 1
• Boston: January 1
• Chicago: January 1
• Dallas: January 1
• Los Angeles: January 1
• Minneapolis: January 1
• New York: January 1

Get to Meet the Author Jane Kurtz, the award-winning author of our Girl of the Year 2010 books.  Here is your chance if possible to meet her in person and have your book signed.  This event is free and open to the public at the locations listed.

Wow, It’s not even April, so there is no April fool.   It’s a shocker, based on the clues that we collected like many of us, it’s was a definite that Lanie was African American.  Not!    A bit disappointed, but how can you not be happy with an American Girl doll.  Thanks to Ashlin, who emailed us with the latest vital info.    Lanie Holland is her name.  Hope the doll is as pretty as the book cover.  I love her hair and she seems to have an effervesce smile, in which I hope her character is as well.  I guess we will have to wait until January.    According to an email we got from Lucy, she is guessing that the mold and curly hair is from Nicki, very possible.   Based on the book cover there’s plants and seeds, is she eco friendly?   Email us your feedback we love to hear from you!

For a limited time, My Pink Planet.com is offering Free Shipping.  Spend $75 or more on selected store categories within store and receive free shipping.  You must enter the promo code FRSHIP75 at checkout.    The selected categories are:

• 15 inch doll clothes
• 18 inch doll clothes
• Doll Accessories
• Doll Shoes & Sock
• Doll Jewelry
• Sale
• Girl’s Novelties

Congratulations to Martha Marsh of Owensboro, KY  winner of My Pink Planet.com $25 Gift Certificate.  Contact us to claim your prize.

Hey girls,  get your letters out to Santa soon.  Here’s his direct address.

Santa Claus

One Santa Claus Lane

North Pole,  Alaska  99705 

For you girls living in the Denver, Colorado area or nearby, great news!    American Girl is opening their 8th store. The new location will take place at Park Meadows mall in south Denver area.   Anticipated  grand opening date shoots for spring of 2010.

Back in August, I spoke to you about the next GOTY doll for 2010. We learned that the author Jane Kurtz has written a book and preorders on to books were available on Amazon.  Ms. Kurtz’s childhood in eastern Ethopia and based on her previous books in which she  primarily writes books about African American children.  We have come to a conclusion that the next GOTY will be African American.    

The lastest news we heard and thanks Maria for the tip is her first name to be “LANIE”   The books titles  are “Lanie’s Real Adventure”  and “Lanie”  There is still no pics on the cover of the books.

Arianna did some research on the name and came across with 2 origins,  Greek and French.  They both had the same meaning, Torch; bright light.

I will keep you posted on any new information that comes up.  Also if you come  across any info, drop us a line.

I bet Arianna and I are not alone felling a bit anxious for a peek on Lanie. 

Check out this beautiful White frame canopy bed.  Will truly make your doll sleep like a princess.  Comes with bedding and pink ribbons as pictured.

.

This gorgeous wicker Pram lined with pink and white check ruffle is another must have!  Order today and add this coupon code TURKEY1109  to your order and get 15% off.

I like to share these hot items among tweens.

These Diaries are ROCKIN with tweens they are available in these cool designs.  They all come with a cool lock and key.  The autograph Tee Shirt are exciting among the girls.  Available in Birthday  and Tattoo.  They come with a marker for girls to fun personalizing.  Great for parties and sleepovers.    Check out this Floral Peace ribbed tank is gorgeous and vibrant in colors.  

 Another hit is the lap desk.  They come in fabulous designs.  Girls love them!  Perfect for long drives, homework, watching a movie or even for those lazy days in bed.   

For the designer in you, Project runway allows your creativity on paper and watch those designer outfits roll.     Love Bling?  Here’s an exciting project, create a wall art, there’s 4 designs to choose from or select all and create a beautiful collage on your wall to admire.   These are all available at My Pink Planet.com

This month we will be giving away a $25 Gift Certificate. You have made many purchases from our store. We would love to know what your feedback on the products you have purchased. Your feedback is important to us. Which is why these reviews are essential not only to us but for all my customers.

When we bring in a product to our store, I personally review the product for quality. I also have a group of reliable honest young girls, which includes Arianna, ages 8 thru 12 who are passionate about their dolls. They share their views and are opinionated as well on what they will love to see that fits the needs of their dolls and themselves.

Affordability is also important but without sacrificing quality which is an overall mandate for all my products.

Simple Rules:
You can only review a product that you have purchased from My Pink Planet.com
For every product review you write in our store, you will receive one entry into our random drawing for the $25 gift certificate.
If you find that the product is no longer available due to stock, you can post your review on our blog, as long as you post the product number. We then will post your review once the product is available.
It’s simple to post a review. Go to the product page in the store and click on “Create a Review”.
All reviews must be posted by midnight on November 30th
A winner will be randomly chosen by Arianna and announced on our blog on December 1st. You must return to the blog to get instructions to claim your prize.
Good Luck!

Got a blog? Write about our contest and link directly back to us and recieve a 5% percent coupon code.

If you have a blog post this contest and link back to us and recieve a 5% discount.

Hi!  from Arianna,   I just wanted to share with you my dolls for Halloween!!!   I had so much fun dressing them up!  I did funky,  fancy, and simple hair dos.  Kit is in the Flapper outfit and I think she looks sooo cute!!  Kailey is an enchanting  ballerina.   Nellie in her 50’s poodle skirt outfit.  Mia is Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz.  Gwen is Little Red Riding hood which I think she looks beautiful in that costume.   Rebecca’s is stunning in as a Ice Skater.  My mom did Rebecca’s hair and it looks awesome,  doesn’t it?  Also,  Nicki is a surfer gal with snorkel.   Felicity is in a “Boo!” sweater that my mom’s friend bought me.  Last but not least,  Bitty Baby is in a Lion costume.  She is also wearing a halloween bib that was mine when I was a baby.  She looks so cute!!   Bella is just witchy in her gorgeous witch costume.    Bella and I will be out trick o treating.   I am dressing up as a funky witch.  Leave us a comment, let us know what your dolls are for Halloween.  Stay tuned for more updates on our blog,  see ya until then!!

We got an email from American Girl® recently that Kirsten’s complete collection will be moving into the American Girl Archives™. Kirsten’s departure will make room for a new Historical American Girl® Here’s our letter:

Dear American Girl fan,
We’re writing with important news about one of the original American Girl dolls—Kirsten Larson®. We wanted you, one of our best customers, to be among the first to know that soon, Kirsten’s complete collection will be moving into the American Girl Archives™.
As you may know, countless American Girl fans have found a friend in this brave pioneer girl since her introduction in 1986. Bringing Kirsten’s world to life—from starting at a new school in a strange land to celebrating her family’s time-honored traditions on St. Lucia’s Day—has been a journey we’ve enjoyed sharing with you.
As we bid Kirsten® a fond farewell, we do so knowing her departure will make it possible to introduce new characters and time periods for our customers to enjoy.
Watch for more information in our catalogues and at americangirl.com. In the meantime, don’t miss the opportunity to purchase items from Kirsten’s collection before it’s too late. Thank you again for your continued support.
Sincerely,
American Girl

Though Kirsten will soon be moving into the American Girl Archives, her stories will live on! You’ll continue to find Kirsten books on our Web site, in American Girl stores, and at booksellers nationwide.

I called the company and they state that there is no cut off date. Kirsten and the accessories will be available until inventory is sold out. Many of her collection are
are limited to 3 per item.

Congratulations to Anna of Easton, PA, winner of Stars & Moon Halloween oufit for 18 inch American Girl doll.

With Halloween a month away, have you considered what you and your favorite  American girl will be for Halloween?  Here are some ideas.   For all you Mary Poppins fans, this gorgeous outfit, details and craftmanship is amazing.

How about a Royal Bride

or one of Disney favorite princess
Mulan Snow White

A favorite for Bitty Baby

Share with us what you doll is gonna be, drop us a line.

Summer is gone and many of us are bummed.  I know my daughter and I are.  It seemed it went so quickly and not to mentioned it was a wet one for many of us in the east coast but as Fall begins on September 22 at exactly 5:18 pm EDT.   I am sort of looking forward to Autumn.  Reminiscing of the beautiful foliage in vibrant colors of red, purple, green, yellow and orange.   The scent of warm apples and cinnamon in the air.  Cozy sweater days by the fireplace or a late night roasting marshmellows and making yummy smores at the fire pit and and admiring the stars with family and friends.   Kid’s laughter and grasping apples off the trees and pumpkin picking.   Share with us what are your favorite fall moments.

Checkout these fabulous tween bedding designed elaborately by Majaneo a company which consists of famous worldwide designers.   They are devoted on creating high quality designer bedding.  Their label,  Blancho , presents floral and diversified patterns in bright vibrant colors.  All of their products are made of certified U.S. organic 100% cotton fabric, and the patterns are printed by using environment-friendly dyes.  Their sets consist of Duvet cover, hemmed european style pillowcase and fitted sheet with concealed elastic band to firmly wrap the overall corner of the mattress, to avoid displacement and extending the pocket size of the fitted sheet to 14″  to fit most mattresses.  Available in twin, full, queen and king  and sold at My Pink Planet.com.

 As for material, 100% combed cotton; 200 thread count (warp & weft: 128 x 86); yarn count: 40 x 40 cotton yarns.  The fabric density of our 100% cotton 200 thread count bedding products EQUALS to the density of most 100% cotton 300+ thread count bedding products in US.

We are giving away this month gorgeous Stars & Moon Halloween dress, treat bag and mask to one lucky winner.

How To Enter:

• Review a product that you have purchased simply by clicking on the “Create a Review” link on the product page.
• All reviews must be posted no later than midnight September 30th, 2009
• Winner will be radomly picked by Arianna and announced here on the blog.
• Bookmark us and mark your calendars for October 1st .
• Winner will be announced here on the Blog
• Winner must return to this blog to claim their prize.

Got a blog?  Write about  our contest and link directly back to us and recieve a  5% percent coupon code.

Every so often I get emails from moms and girls on how to fix their American Girl doll limbs without the the hefty cost of sending their doll to the American Girl Hospital.  Well, I found these cool videos on You Tube.  Sara, the woman in the video is is amazing and brave!  She shows you step by step and the necessary tools needed to restring your doll.  Now, I haven’t attempted this myself nor lucklily do I need to fix my daughter’s dolls.  I just knew that I have to post these links and share with you all.  Enjoy!

How to Re String your American Girl Doll Part 1 of 3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-LZoO1GJKM&feature=player_embedded

How to Restring your American Girl Doll Part 2 of 3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRS3aofza4Y&feature=related

How to Restring your American Girl part 3 of 3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Tlf-5DVpzc&feature=video_response

Look what I came across on Amazon 

Girl of the Year 2010, Book 1 (American Girl Today) (Paperback) by Jane Kurtz

Here’s a great club to join and it’s free! Girls ages 5 thru 14 ask your parents to register and join MyPink Planet.com Real American Girls Birthday Club. Each child registered will recieve special gift or a valuable coupon redemable only at MY Pink Planet.com on her birthday. In addition to My Pink Planet.com Birthday Club mailings, you will recieve via email our newsletter updating news about the latest merchandise, promotions, sales and coupons.

pink yellow flower teaset for A G doll

Teal Teaset for American Girl Doll

Blue White Teaset for A G Doll

Here are some great tea party sandwich recipes: 

Cucumber Mint Tea Sandwich

1/2 seedless cucumber, peeled and very thinly sliced (about 32 slices)
1/4 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves, rinsed, spun dry, and chopped fine
1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1/4 cup cream cheese, room temperature
16 slices best-quality white bread*
Salt to taste

* Choose the best-quality white or wheat bread as possible. Never serve end slices. Freezing the bread before cutting and then spreading makes for easier handling.

 Tomatoe Cream Cheese Sandwiches

3 ripe tomatoes

Cream cheese whipped

Whole wheat bread

Spread whipped cream cheese on bread.  Place slice of tomatoes, top with another slice of bread.   Trim cust and cut into triangles.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches

Jif peanut butter

Smuckers Grape jam

Whole wheat bread

Spread peanuter butter and layer with jam, top with another slice of bread.    Trim off crust and cut into quarters  OR use decoatrtive mini cookie cuters in differemnt design for a whimiscal effect.

Place cucumber slices between layers of paper towels to remove excess moisture.

In a small bowl, combine mint, butter, and cream cheese; spread on one side of each slice of bread. Lay cucumber slices onto the buttered side of 8 slices of bread. Sprinkle with salt. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side down.

Carefully cut the crusts from each sandwich with a long, sharp knife. Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally and then cut in half again. Decorative shapes can be made with cookie cutters.

 Egg Salad Tea Sandwiches

8 hard-cooked eggs
1/2 cup mayonnaise
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
20 slices best-quality white bread

** * Choose the best-quality white or wheat bread as possible. Never serve end slices. Freezing the bread before cutting and then spreading makes for easier handling.

Peel eggs and place into a medium bowl. Slice eggs and then coarsely mash them with the back of a fork. Add mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and dill; stir until well blended. NOTE: This mixture can be refrigerated, covered, up to two days.

Spread butter onto one side of each slice of bread. Spread the buttered side of 10 slices of bread with 2 tablespoons egg mixture. Top with remaining slices of bread, buttered side down.

Carefully cut the crusts from sandwich with a long, sharp knife. Cut in half diagonally, then cut in half again. If desired, decorative shapes can be made with cookie cutters.

Check out these cute gold rim eyeglasses for your 18 inch American girl doll, they come complete with designer leather like case.  Available in Black, Brown, and Burgandy.  Exclusive at My Pink Planet.com

Glenda the Witch

 We went to see Wicked the Musical and it was FANTASTIC!  A prequel to America’s Classic The Wizard of Oz.    The performers superb vocal talents were phenomenal.    The costume and stage settings was colorful and breath taking not to mention the flying monkeys.  

The story unfolds the early life of Glenda the witch of the north who was glamorous, Ms. Popular, annoying but funny.  Elphaba, the wicked witch who was green from head to toe.  Everyone feared her because of her looks and was ridicule in school.  She was actually a warm, caring, funny and an extremely like able character.   Yes, I said it , I actually liked her.  She was nothing as I believe  or should I say WE all believe  she was.   Glenda and Elphaba met in sorcery school, where they were pretty much force to be roommates.   Ironically they loathe each other, they later learn to become best of friends.  

Elphaba, is later betrayed by the wizard and Madame Morrible who sends false information about her evilness and  wickedness to the folks at oz.   I won’t go into anymore details as for I wouldn’t want to ruin it for anyone who decides to see this play which I truly recommend.

Arianna & Alexa

Arianna and my niece Alexa were in awe throughout the performance.  We agree it was the best play we have seen.

Elphaba the witch

Elphaba at SchoolGlenda & ElphabaGlenda & Elephaba

Arianna & Ancient Tribeswoman

Weird and unusual finds at Ripley’s believe it or not.

Arianna's head in a jar

This was interesting and creative. A portrait of President Barack Obama , made of nearly 13,000 gumballs.

This albino giraffe is one of 3 found in Zimbabwe, Africa

Check out these googly eyes

This past spring, American Girl Place has expanded their store and added specialty shops.  They had remove their theatre and added a whole new wing filled with specialty shops.  It’s truly adorable!

The sweet shop filled with all yummy treats just too cute to eat!

Here’s a cute creative t shirt shop , where your girl can pick a design for American Girl doll.


This section is called the Pet place. Every pet you can think of in the American Girl doll collection.

The Doll Hair Salon Shop where they also do ear piercing for dolls.

My daughter Arianna and I went to American Girl at NYC for the launch of Rebecca Rubin and met with author Jacqueline Dembar Greene.  

Upon entering the store we as so many around us were in awe of how lovely once again!  American Girl Place had display their windows in honor of their latest edition to their historical line of dolls, Rebecca Rubin.

An hourly raffle was drawn for a chance to win a Rebecca Rubin doll.   There were so many girls and their mom on line.  Each girl held their copy of Meet Rebecca as they patiently waited with glee to get their book autographed and meet the charming Ms. Greene. 
Jacqueline Dembar Greene is the award-winning author of some 20 books and short stories for young readers. She has written picture books, historical novels, and non-fiction books. She is also an avid  photographer, and some of her photos illustrate her non-fiction stories and books.  She loves the outdoors in which she has incorporated into many of her books.Here’s a link to all of Ms. Greene books http://www.jdgbooks.com/books.htm

Arianna and I love American Girl Doll movies but I must say my favorite is “Kit Kittredge: An American Girl”. The cast was incredible. I loved Abigail Breslin performances and the movie itself bittersweet. I found myself laughing and crying. It was a bit ironic though amidst the recession that we are in financial turmoil our country is facing with home foreclosures, soaring food and gas prices. Here we were, my daughter Arianna and my niece Alexa watching a movie based on the great depression. A great history lesson about soup kitchens, selling vegetable and eggs, boarding strangers to make ends meet, and foreclosures symbolising The Great Depression. After the movies the girls had alot of questions and comparing scenarios from the movie with topics that they have heard on the news regarding the recession and yes, that dreadful question “Momma will that ever happen to us?” Life lessons for our young 9 year old girls?

With just a few days away. Many girls are just waiting for excitement for the launching of the new historical doll Rebecca Rubin, the 10th historical doll. I just got this pic in from a friend and she is a beauty. Rebecca Rubin, a 9 year old Jewish American girl, from the 1914 era living in lower east side, NYC. As for her Russian immigrant family, times are changing on the Lower East Side. Rebecca’s struggles to find her niche and balance the worlds of tradition and modernity.

Originally, as per Megan Boswell, director of design and development, American Girl, Rebecca’s hair color was debated for years. Rebecca’s hair started out being dark auburn, then went to dark brown. Then the company worried dark brown would be too typical and predictable.

There is a six book series written by Jacqueline Dembar Greene, who has published a historical book about Jewish immigrants for young adults, Rebecca’s six-book series

• Meet Rebecca
• Rebecca and Ana
• Candlelight for Rebecca
• Rebecca and the Movies
• Rebecca to the Rescue
• Changes for Rebecca

Technically, she is the second Jewish doll American Girl has now to offer but the first with the historical dolls. In 2001 American Girl launched Lindsay Bergman, who was one of the “Girl of the Year” series, and Lindsay was available for that year only. Although, I have seen her on sale on ebay new for a hefty price or used for a moderate price.

Rebecca’s release date was originally scheduled to be June 1, but it was moved to coincide with Manhattan’s Israel Day parade.

If you are in one of the area below, your girl can meet Ms. Greene, the award-winning author of American Girl newest historical character’s book series! This informal session is an opportunity to meet Ms. Greene in person and have her books signed. Free and open to the public. For girls ages 8 and up.
At this casual event, girls can create crafts and enjoy activities inspired by the stories of our newest historical character. Event details by store

Boston: June 28
Chicago: June 7
New York: May 31

Arianna and I will definetly be visiting the NY store this sunday. We definetly want to meet the author and have a book signed.

Here are some cool outfit and accessories to celebrate Kit May 19th & Samantha May 26th Birthdays.

This adorable pink and Aqua floral dress is too pretty to pass by and to complete Kits love for baseball her own glove, bat and baseball.

Here’s a cool way for your kids to earn money. KidzEyes.com is an online survey panel where kids can tell the companies that make products and services for them how they look through kids’ eyes and be rewarded for it. They are a panel of an online community of kids aged 6-12 who have agreed to participate in surveys with the child’s parents or guardians consent to participate. Kidz will be asked about things like TV shows for kids, movies, Web sites, snack foods, music, clothes, sports, video games and other things that kids are interested in.

Here are some darling crafts that you and you child can make for Mother’s Day.
Courtesy of Martha Stewart Living. I just love her crafts!

Pressed-Pansy Coasters

Colorful flowers floating between squares of glass make beautiful and useful coasters. Press the flowers yourself, or use prepressed blooms. Although we used pansies and violas, you can use any variety of pressed flowers or leaves you like; a collection of coasters is even more charming if each one is unique.

Tools and Materials Needed:

Glass squares (two for each coaster)
Pressed pansies, or other flowers or leaves
Tweezers
Non-water-based clear-drying craft glue
3 1/2-inch toothpick or small paintbrush
Binder clips
1/4-inch-wide silvered-copper-foil tape
Scissors
Pencil or ice pop stick

Pressed Pansy Coasters How-To:

1. Have a glazier cut 1/8-inch-thick glass into 3 1/2-inch squares, and sand the edges.

2. Wipe the panes carefully with glass cleaner and a paper towel. Be careful not to smudge the glass or trap any dust between panes while you work.

3. Handling the flowers carefully with tweezers, position them on one pane until you are satisfied with your arrangement. Using a tiny dab of glue on a toothpick or small paintbrush, adhere the flowers to the pane. Allow glue to dry before continuing.

4. Carefully place a second pane on top, sandwiching the flowers between the two panes and aligning the edges exactly.

5. To seal, hold the panes together with binder clips, moving the clips from one side to another as you tape. Place the end of the metal tape along an edge of the glass, and wrap the tape around the entire perimeter. Overlap the ends slightly, then snip the tape with scissors.

6. For a tight seal, rub the tape thoroughly until the edge is smooth, using the side of a pencil or ice pop stick as a burnishing tool.

7. If necessary, clean the coasters with a soft cloth or paper towels and glass cleaner. Do not submerge coasters in water; the tape does not produce a watertight seal.

Mother’s Day Coupon Book

Moms, these are great for Breakfast in bed, luxious day of pampering, Clearing the table, vacumning, or my favorite “I (child)WILL clean my room without asking.” lol!

I love these! I get to enjoy them after Mother’s day, so the holiday goes on.

Supplies Needed:
Mother’s Day coupon template
Colored card stock
Ruler
Tracing wheel
Mat knife
Hole punch
Ribbon

1. Download and print our Mother’s Day coupon template onto colored card stock.

2. Create perforated left- and right-hand edges: Lay the ruler on the line where the coupon and the bind meet, and use a tracing wheel (usually used for pattern making), to scribe the edge of the coupon. Roll the tool along the ruler edge three or four times, creating the perforation. Repeat for remaining side.

3. Using a mat knife, cut out the coupons. Make sure to leave the tab on the left-hand side of the coupon for the bind.

4. Bind the coupons together: Stack coupons on top of one another, and using a hole punch, make two holes in the binding. Thread and tie a 1/4-inch-wide piece of ribbon to bind the booklet. Write in your redeemable gifts by hand.

Winner will recieve:

1. Pink Parisian Dress – Pink with black polka dot dress

2. Pink Ankle Socks

3. Black Ballet Flat Shoes

• Participants who wish to enter must submit an essay of a minimum of 250 words on why their mom is the best. Your essay should be emailed to mail@mypinkplanet.com Make sure to include your name, age and state.
• Deadline: Your essay must be received no later than May 28th 11:59pm
• Winner Annoucement: Winner will be announced on this blog May 29th, so don’t forget to mark your calendar for that special day.
• We ask that the winner will submit a photo of themselves with their special mom. Photo will be posted along with their winning essay, first name, city and state.
• There is no purchase required.

Hugs & Good luck!

This month we will be giving away a $25 gift certificate. How? Just follow these simple rules.

• Review a product that you have purchased from our online store. Simply by going to the product page at My Pink Planet.com and clicking on the link “create a review.”write a product review.
• For every product review you write on our online store, you will recieve one entry into our random drawing.
• All reviews must be posted no later than midnight May 31st.
• In the event you cannot not find the product online due to out of stock, you my post review here. Your post will be forward to the store once item becomes available. It’s important to include product number. Failure to do so will void your submission.
• Winner will be randomly picked by Arianna. The winner name will be posted June 1st on this blog.
• Remember to mark your calendar June 1st, visit us at Real American Girls blog and see if you are the winner of the $25.00 Gift Certificate.
• If you have a blog, add our contest and remember to link back to us.

Hugs & Good Luck!

During the depression, Kit and her mother are left to manage on their own. Growing their own vegetables, selling eggs and even taking in an assortment of boarders.

Checkout these adorable yummy looking vegetables. They come in a delightful wicker basket filled with 3 vegetables. Carrot, broccoli and red leaf lettuce. What a great addition for Kit.

Perfect for a picnic, assorted scrumptous bread in an brown wicker basket.

Birthday wishes to Julie! Julie Albright is a fun-loving San Francisco girl who faces big changes. Changes in her life become challenging, as moving away from her best friend, Ivy Ling, and starting over at a new house and school. But soon enough, Julie learns how to create a few changes of her own. In an era when events of the time range from women’s rights to title IX and more.

I’ll Keep you posted if any more info comes my way.

Happy Birthday to Addy April 9th, Felicity April 21st, Molly April 22nd

Here are just some fun accessories to celebrate your doll birthday and can be found at
My Pink Planet.com