Through Hazel Eyes-A Mom Blog | Archive

Buckle Toy-Bucky the Turtle

No Comments 15 December 2009

My daughter is 18 months old, and any of you who have spent any amount of time with a toddler around that age, give or take, know that they get bored quickly. There are a few things as a mom I like to see in the toys that my children play with. First and foremost (besides being safe), I prefer a toy that does not require batteries. Usually if there are no batteries required it means this will be a toy that is not obnoxiously noisy or over stimulating. Other key points I look for: promotes eye hand coordination, uses their imagination, nice colors, easy to travel with, and reasonably priced are at the top of my list. Bucky the Turtle from Buckletoy.com falls into most of my categories, if not all.

Bucky has a zipper back on his shell where a child can store another special toy. He has 4 different colors and shapes of buckles on his belly that your child will enjoy buckling and un-buckling over and over. Upon un-buckling your child will find the numbers 1-10 embroidered in different colors. There are also embroidered shapes in different colors on his shell to promote shape recognition. He is plush and soft and very very easy to take along for travel.

Here is a little excerpt from buckletoy.com about Jill Gomez, creator of the Buckle Toys:

“I made sure that each design has an educational purpose because a growing toddler is constantly learning. My son Gavin has enjoyed hours of play and learning time with his buckle toy and I know that each little one that plays with theirs will love it just as much. Thank you for visiting my site and I hope you check back soon!”

You can find the Buckle Toy Pillow and Bucky the Turtle along with additonal unique gifts at Buckletoy.com. Visit now to receive 20% off of Bucky the Turtle!

Bucky The Turtle was provided to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions stated are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Parenting, Promotions

Holiday Gift Idea-Mattel 2009 Holiday Barbie Doll

No Comments 15 December 2009

Barbie has been a part of my life since I was born. My Grandmother bought me a Barbie doll from my very first Christmas and every Christmas after that until my senior year. My mom always bought me the newest Teresa doll since that is her name. Some are in the boxes still and some are not. I still have them all (except that poor Skipper who lost all of her hair to an unfortunate “hair stylist” incident) to cherish and pass on to my little girl. I cringe when I see the competitor type dolls and hope that my little girl will love her Barbies like I always did.

Like my Grandmother did, my mom is now carrying on the tradition with my little girl. She is only 18 months this year, but already has one displayed on a shelf in her bedroom until she is old enough. In addition to the one we will be placing the 2009 Holiday Barbie doll. She is truly a beautiful doll in person.

A little information from Mattel:

Celebrate the holidays and the 50th anniversary of Barbie® with this shimmering, glimmering beauty! Barbie® doll adds sparkle to the season in her elegant pale-pink and golden lamé gown with artfully wrapped bodice. Magnificent chandelier earrings complete the glorious look!

A vision of holiday perfection!
Glam tulle with glittery accents
Lovely long & flowing hairstyle
Great for ages 6+

In addition to the 2009 Holiday Barbie you can also find an assortment of different Barbie dolls, accessories, pets, vehicles and more to go with your Barbie from Mattel. Make sure you check out the Deal of the Day and take advantage of the Free ground shipping on all orders for a limited time!

The 2009 Holiday Barbie was provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

Parenting

For Shellie

1 Comment 15 December 2009

I’m at a loss of words when it comes to this. This morning I logged onto my computer with my cup of coffee before my kids were even awake to find out that Shellie, an acquaintance and very dear person, lost her 2 year son Bryson unexpectedly. I hope that we can all show our support for her and her family. If you pray, say a little prayer. If you feel inclined send her a card. If you are on twitter, send a thoughtful tweet with the hashtag #hugs4shellie.

I’m not sure how to even begin to cope with this, but I am certain that anyone in this situation can use all of support offered. Hug your kids and loved ones extra tight and light a candle for those who need it most right now.

Parenting

Holiday Gift Idea-V. Smile Cyber Pocket by VTech

5 Comments 07 December 2009

I think when it comes down to it, most children have a fascination with video games. Especially my 5 year old son because we do not let him play them often at all so the excitement level when we do give him the go ahead is pretty high. My husband and I keep a pretty strict list of requirements for each game we allow him to play and only allow a small time block at a time. Now that we’ve received the V. Smile Cyber Pocket by VTech I believe this is a perfect hand held game system for a child his age.

I love the size and portability of the Cyber Pocket. It is perfect for long car rides and quieter than having the DVD player hooked up in the vehicle. After going through the different games available I’ve found that I can find Ryan’s favorite characters such as Spiderman and Batman, but instead of your typical bad guy/good guy game these include spelling, counting, problem soloving and more! The buttons are an appropriate size for those little learning hands and this can be hooked up to a television or computer. The joystick controls are switchable for your left handed or right handed child. The game system itself as well as the games, otherwise known as smartridges, are very affordable. You can find some of the games for as low as 6.99.

The only thing that was a little tricky at first was the sensitivity of the touch screen that you use with your stylus. It did work, we just had to get used to it. You have to press just hard enough without pressing too hard. Once you figure out the sweet spot you should be good to go. Overall we love it! I’m sure we’ll end up picking another for our daughter.

To Buy:

Visit VTechs shopping area where you can find educational toys for children from birth up to 8 years old!

I was given a V.Smile Cyber Pocket by VTech for my review. I was allowed to keep the product, but the opinion I am sharing remains my own.

Parenting

Osh Kosh are you out there?

15 Comments 03 December 2009

I could use some insight. Before I go on I’ll admit that I really got a great laugh out of this, I laughed so hard I cried, and Olivia? She was pissed. I’m curious as to why this particular pair of snow pants are so poofy. I get that they need insulation to keep those little bodies warm, but if you saw this little girl in person you would so see where I’m coming from. I’m not complaining, really, these were a hand me down and I didn’t have to spend a dime on Olivia’s snow gear this year and they do indeed keep her toasty warm. I take that back, I couldn’t resist buying the hat. I’m just wondering though, is it at the child’s expense? Do you do it to make parents like me laugh hysterically?

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Okay, in all seriousness. I do love Osh Kosh and really just wanted to share this with you all so you could get a little chuckle too. It reminded me of a scene from one of my favorite Christmas movies.