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Shoebox Blog

Chuck & Beans Friday, 18 May 2012, 4:00 pm

Source: Shoebox | brian

Newsdroppings Friday, 18 May 2012, 12:50 pm

200 buffalo escaped from an Iowa farm. Officials speculate that they were dissatisfied with the small number of deer and antelope playing in Iowa.

Brooklyn Decker says the movie “Battleship” isn’t just she and Rihanna sitting around saying “B-4” which, by the way, we would totally watch.  And buy the DVD. And watch all the extras.

A ship that may have sunk almost two hundred years ago has been discovered along with its treasure trove of… ceramic plates.  Surprisingly, the movie rights to this are still available.

Pinterest may be worth over a billion dollars, which can buy you a lot of crock pots and barnwood.

There’s a park in Oklahoma that lets kids pose for pictures with tigers. According to the park’s very enthusiastic spokesman, it’s “Grrrrrrrrrrrrreat!”

Swan eggs are being stolen in a story that is probably not going to turn out to be beautiful.

A child found a finger in his sandwich, so that’s probably his last trip to the “pose with a tiger” park.

She worked hard for the money, so you better treat her legacy right.

Source: Shoebox | Bill

Smithees Thursday, 17 May 2012, 2:00 pm

Source: Shoebox | jsmit13

Newsdroppings Thursday, 17 May 2012, 1:07 pm

For the first time in 20 years, a “ring of fire” eclipse will be visible in the U.S. And now we have that Johnny Cash song stuck in our heads. Which is cool.

7.5 million kids miss a month of school every year. Teachers are apparently unaware of the problem, thanks to that one wisenheimer who keeps saying “Present!” in different voices when other kids’ names are called.

Coffee drinkers live longer. But not by a latte.

Thought bad behavior in professional sports was limited to the NFL and the NBA? Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome baseball!

Do you live in a “well read” city?  Reading this right now doesn’t count.  It counts with us; it counts a lot.  But not for the survey.

You can lead a horse to water.  Then, you need a really good plan to get him out of the water.

Those shoes that were supposed to help your butt, probably didn’t help your butt. But to be fair, neither did those donuts.

There are 4,700 potentially dangerous asteroids coming to earth, according to NASA. Looks like it’s time to call in this guy.

A baby was delivered at a Florida gas station. The mother and child are doing well and are currently recuperating in aisle 3, next to the corn nuts.

Source: Shoebox | Bill

Random Russ Wednesday, 16 May 2012, 4:38 pm

Source: Shoebox | Shelley

Newsdroppings Wednesday, 16 May 2012, 1:17 pm

Facebook is selling more shares to pay the taxes on the money it makes from… selling shares? Probably?  We’re not “friends” with any economics majors, are we?

Your sunscreen might be unsafe. For one thing, you could slip right out of the deck chair.

John Mayer called himself an idiot on Ellen, which saved Taylor Swift the trouble of writing another song.

The oldest female bodybuilder and the oldest yoga instructor are inspirational to those of us planning to become the oldest donut connoisseur one day.  Thank you, ladies! You give us hope.

Katherine Heigl has added another baby to the family which we assume will cause lots of romantic comedy style misunderstandings like running through airports and notes being delivered to the wrong person and finally everything ending just fine while an upbeat pop song plays.

Pitcher Stephen Strasburg accidentally got some hot ointment in an unexpected place during last night’s game. He wouldn’t say where, but the term “low and inside” was used.

A Wisconsin man was arrested after “ninja kicking” another man in the head. What happened to the good old days of civility and throwing stars?

A bear stole a 50-pound bag of sunflower seeds. Authorities suspect the incident may be related to the 275-pound bag of trail mix they recently discovered in the woods.

If you hate needles, not looking at them can make them hurt less. Although not getting poked by them is probably your best bet.

Source: Shoebox | Bill

burbles Tuesday, 15 May 2012, 2:13 pm

Source: Shoebox | Dick

Newsdroppings Tuesday, 15 May 2012, 1:03 pm

 

President Obama apparently knows which Kardashian is which. So, if that’s what you base your vote on, well…sorry…lost our train of thought in a shudder of fear for our country’s future.

Coyotes are invading San Francisco. The really bad part is that where coyotes go, yodeling country singers usually follow.

The new baby name list is out and Jacob and Sophia are at the top.  In your chubby faces, Mason and Isabella!

Kiawah Island was named America’s happiest seaside town. But don’t worry, the unhappiest seaside town will be fine, because they’re still, well, a seaside town.

Here’s a list of America’s nine youngest CEOs, just in case you were feeling good about what you’ve accomplished in your life so far.

A man who robbed an internet café was caught because he forgot to log out of Facebook before the robbery. His “Totally about to rob a café LOL” status was also a tip-off.

UPDATE: That New Jersey town from yesterday’s Newsdroppings did not actually ban texting while walking. Residents breathed a collective sigh of relief as they got up and stretched their legs for the first time in days.

Legally, killer whales have to have companions.  You can end up standing around awkwardly by yourself at this summer’s family reunion and the government won’t care, but killer whales, oh, the killer whales can’t be alone.

A teenage boy’s excessive body spray set off an alarm. He’s telling his teenage boy buddies that it’s because he’s “smokin’ hot.” They’re not buying it.

Source: Shoebox | Bill

Tiny Little Movie Review: Dark Shadows Monday, 14 May 2012, 2:18 pm

When you see “Alice Cooper” in the credits for a movie,  you’re probably going to sit there wondering when Alice Cooper shows up.  Let me put your curious mind at ease, it’s toward the end, and he does a couple of songs.  I don’t feel like this is a spoiler, because you’re going to see it, like I just said, in the credits.

He is not looking absolutely great.  Not 100% great.  To be fair, he’s almost retirement age, which brings some questions to mind.  He’s already a golfer who lives in Arizona, which is basically pre-retiring. Maybe this was all just kind of a pain, being in a movie.  He still tours and that probably goes just like he wants, but movies?  Not his forte, most likely.  You just didn’t get the feeling that he sat in his make-up chair getting his black tears or possibly blood looking stuff on his face while Johnny sat next to him getting his dead a long time look going and they like joked around and the make-up people had to  start over.

But if you let wondering why AC didn’t seem to be all that into it get into your head, that’s going to hurt the movie for you.  So don’t do that, OK?  Go into it knowing that Alice Cooper is going to show up, in full regalia, and he’s going to be… fine.  But only fine.  Let the rest of the movie happen to you, so to speak, as if Alice isn’t going to show up at all.  Then maybe glob on a ton of eyeliner and go play golf.

Source: Shoebox | Dan

Awkward Moments Monday, 14 May 2012, 2:00 pm

Source: Shoebox | Shelley

Newsdroppings Monday, 14 May 2012, 1:13 pm

The Avengers broke the $1 billion barrier, which is not that surprising given a giant guy known for breaking stuff is on their team.

The CEO of Yahoo lost his job because he faked part of his resume. Bet we know what word he’s not saying.

NBC says they’re planning 10 sit-coms in their fall TV line-up. Wow. It’s a great time to be an actress who specializes in playing the goofy best friend.

A New Jersey town has banned texting while walking. Residents responded with disappointment, saying they enjoy walking and really hate to have to give it up.

A man set a world record by fist-pumping for 17 hours straight. He celebrated his achievement by, well, you know.

What face would you make if Jessica Biel were kissing you?  Probably this one.

A skier fell 160 feet in what we’re now considering the best reason ever not to do things.

An 8-year-old made a basket from half court.  Fortunately, it’s only 10 years till he’ll be old enough for the NBA, and the playoffs will still be going on.

This sculpture at the Olympic Village is being described as “the Godzilla of public art”, so look out for a so-so remake of it 50 years from now.

A Florida teacher might be fired for putting a “cone of shame” on her students. On the upside, it looks really good on her.

Source: Shoebox | Bill

Chuck & Beans Friday, 11 May 2012, 4:00 pm

Source: Shoebox | brian

Newsdroppings Friday, 11 May 2012, 1:06 pm

They found a different Mayan calendar that says the world isn’t going to end in 2012 after all. So we’re seriously reconsidering our plan to spend all of our retirement money on fancy phones and movie popcorn.

100 parrots were rescued from a building in Ohio. Authorities were relieved to remove the birds from unhealthy surroundings, but were totally unprepared for all the cracker requests.

Some people are afraid of a mysterious Alaska lake monster, but not us. Nope, we’re feeling pretty brave down here in Missouri.

Adele doesn’t want to be a celebrity. So everyone, please try to be considerate and stop knowing who Adele is. You’re all being very rude.

You thought you’d had enough Kate Middleton, but you know what? There’s no such thing as enough Kate Middleton.  Just ask England.

Howard Stern will join the team at America’s Got Talent where each competition will now conclude with the contestants spanking each other.

Bad news: The Chicago Bulls have been eliminated from the NBA playoffs.  Good news: that leaves 46 teams and another 7 months of playoffs.

Half of American adults are sunburned. Top half, hopefully.

Source: Shoebox | Bill

In Stores Now Thursday, 10 May 2012, 9:36 pm

Inside: Except for me. I’m special. Right, Mom? Happy Mother’s Day

Source: Shoebox | Shelley

Smithees Thursday, 10 May 2012, 2:00 pm

Source: Shoebox | jsmit13

Newsdroppings Thursday, 10 May 2012, 1:53 pm

A bunch of bicyclers are complaining about a new road sign, but the police chief told them they might as well stop because they’re just spinning their wheels.

A man has collected 38 million air miles. He says he’s holding out for when Delta starts offering flights to Jupiter.

A group of second graders are growing a pizza garden. The hard part was building a cheese-stuffed fence around the plot.

The Olympic torch was lit by “the rays of the sun” in Greece yesterday since no one packed matches under their togas.

Black holes are preventing the creation of new stars. We thought it was because Simon Cowell left Idol.

Sofia Vergara is single!  This might not affect your weekend plans, but some of us just went into a fairly major reprioritizing mode.

A baby was delivered at City Hall, proving once and for all that you can’t fight it. City Hall, you can’t fight City Hall.  Also, you can’t fight babies, but you really should have known that.

Some mail got wet when a delivery truck drove into a pond.  But several catfish who finally got their Field and Stream on time were thrilled!

Andy Warhol’s Elvis just sold for 37 million dollars.  That sounds like a lot of money, but as we reported a couple of days ago, it’s nothing to Scream about.

Source: Shoebox | Bill

Notes From The Meeting: Wednesday, 9 May 2012, 2:33 pm

Source: Shoebox | Shelley

Wednesday, 9 May 2012, 12:53 pm

The guy a terrorist group thought was going to be their suicide bomber was actually a CIA double agent. So, apparently Robert Ludlum is writing for real life now.

Josh Hamilton of the Texas Rangers hit four home runs last night, which is even more impressive when you consider that he did it in real life and not in a video game.

Scientists say a re-useable grocery bag carried the perfect storm of pathogens, which makes sense since pathogens were 3 for $1.

A man called 911 after finding a bandage in his soup. Turns out the fly was just using it as a life raft.

Would your pet pull you from the path of oncoming train?  Maybe you and your pet need to have a serious talk.

Would your co-workers pull you out of a vat of acid? Maybe you and your co-workers need to have a serious talk.

A mother and her adult son are arguing over lottery winnings. This is exactly the kind of thing that can put a real crimp in Mother’s Day celebrations.

As Americans grow larger, the ratings for The Biggest Loser are shrinking.  Possibly because too many of us are actually on the show and they don’t have TV at the ranch.

The Beach Boys are still performing together, and totally ignoring our suggestion to change their name to “The Creepy Old Guys At the Beach.”

Source: Shoebox | Bill

Happy (Almost) Mother’s Day! Tuesday, 8 May 2012, 9:30 pm

Source: Shoebox | Shelley

burbles Tuesday, 8 May 2012, 2:29 pm

Source: Shoebox | Dick

World Card Making Day & Free eCards 2 Oct 2009, 10:01 pm

October 3rd is World Card Making Day. At Precious Moments, we love our free eCards and will commemorate this special day by sending eCards to everyone we know. You can do your part to honor the day by sending an eCard to someone you love.

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Star in your own full-length Precious Moments video! 24 Sep 2009, 3:41 pm

Precious Moments has partnered with Kideoto help your little one become a star! Upload a child’s picture and the image will be added to the PreciousMoments movie Our Angel Saves the Day!

In this photo andaudio personalized adventure your child is a little Angel who mustbring two villages together in the spirit of friendship and trust. YourAngel will be featured in full color animation beside the love-ablePrecious Moments characters throughout this story for the whole family!

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Are You a Gift Finding Wizard? 23 Sep 2009, 1:52 pm

When you shop at PreciousMoments.com, do you like to browse through our product categories and see what tickles your fancy? Or, are you more to the point…using our site search to narrow down your shopping needs? Let us know your preferred method.

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

What are Your Favorite Social Shopping Sites? 18 Sep 2009, 6:33 pm

On PreciousMoments.com, you can save all of our products to some popular social shopping sites. The list is impressive:

• Kaboodle
• kirtsy
• Amazon Wishlist

We offer numerous other social bookmarking sites for your convenience. It dawns on me, however, that I never asked you what social shopping sites they use. So, here is your chance. Do tell…on what sites do you bookmark/save/tag your favorite Precious Moments products? I will be happy to add the top sites to our social shopping service.

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Celebrating Heroes of Hope: A Precious Moments Event 18 Sep 2009, 1:36 pm

In response to popular demand, Precious Moments is excited to announce Celebrating Heroes of Hope:  A Precious Moments Event, Saturday, Oct. 17, at participating card and gift retailers (PDF) all across the country. 

The purpose of the event this year is to showcase Precious Moments’ partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®.Participating stores will offer exclusive product, including afirst-to-market St. Jude figurine and a St. Jude event doll. Tenpercent of the purchase price of these items will go to St. Jude. Drawings for Precious Moments products, event exclusive contests, fungiveaways and a discount for Precious Moments Collector Club memberswill be part of this event.

Do you plan to attend Celebrating Heroes of Hope? If so, leave a comment below and let us know which store you will visit. More event information is available on our events page.

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Special Precious Moments Offer 16 Sep 2009, 6:29 pm

We have a special offer if you place an order of $35 or more. Your order of $35.00 or more qualifies you to purchase our new “Girl With Snowflake Musical” for only $9.95! This beautifully crafted resin music box rotates as it plays “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear” and has a retail value of $35.00. Save over 70% now by simply adding it to your shopping cart as you check out. (Limit 1 per order, while supplies last). Shop now.

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Our Newest Disney Gifts 16 Sep 2009, 5:06 pm

With so many classic Walt Disney characters, movies, and memories, we really have an endless selection of gift and figurine ideas.

Our latest collection of Disney gifts feature Disney princesses such as Sleeping Beauty and Belle as well as Nemo. These new members of the Precious Moments cast make adorable collector’s items or early Christmas gifts. They only problem you will have is deciding which ones you must have! View all the new Disney gifts and enjoy.

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Precious Moms Website Will Close in October 15 Sep 2009, 9:59 pm

Precious Moments is sad to announce that we will will be closing downPrecious Moms on October 30th. Precious Moms was a wonderful outlet fornews and information of dedicated moms and the decision to close thesite was not an easy one. If there is any information or content youwish to save, please copy and save the information to your computer byOctober 30th. We appreciate your past support and input on the site.

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Charm(ing) Bracelet and Jewelry 15 Sep 2009, 3:18 pm

Do you wear your heart on your sleeve? Well, now you can wear your heart on your wrist or your ears or both! The Precious Moments sterling silver bracelet and earrings have the signature Precious Moments heart and are the perfect way to wear your Precious Moments.

We all know an avid fan or collector with many figurines. We also know how difficult it can be to find a figurine or gift they do not own. Jewelry is a perfect gift. Our newest items will flatter the most dedicated fan while providing them a unique gift beyond their figurines.

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Best Seat in the House 14 Sep 2009, 11:49 pm

I almost hadn’t come to the class at church that night. With four kids and a full-time teaching job, I had plenty to do.

But my 11-year-old son, Brady, was having surgery the next day. I hatedto think of him alone in the operating room. I’d been praying forweeks, asking God to be with Brady and his doctors during surgery, butit didn’t feel like enough.

Standing in the doorway of the church hall I couldn’t believe howmany people had showed up for this class. It looked like more than ahundred were seated at the tables scattered throughout the hall–but nota familiar face among them.

No one I can ask to pray with me for Brady. I sat down at a table next to a dark-haired man, but the instructor immediately asked us to move.

“Let’s fill in all these vacant chairs up front,” she said. Thedark-haired man got up to look for another seat. I crossed the room toan empty chair. But just as I got there, someone else took it. Ispotted another chair at the next table. The same thing happened again.And again.

I did not come here for a game of musical chairs, I thoughtas I made a beeline for another chair. I flung myself into it andturned to see…the same dark-haired man I’d left behind.

“We meet again,” he said as the instructor stood to speak.

“Tonight I thought we’d talk about our lives outside of church,” shesaid. “Everybody share with the people at your table how you work yourfaith into your daily life.”

The dark-haired man said, “I’m an anesthesiologist. Before I put apatient under, I pray for him. I ask each patient if they’d like topray too. I used to be embarrassed about this…”

“I think it’s wonderful!” I interrupted. “My son is having surgerytomorrow. I’d feel so much better if his doctor could pray with him.”

“Where is his surgery?” he asked.

I mentioned the hospital. “Dr. Duplechain is doing the operation.”

“Then I can assure you that your son will be surrounded by prayer,”he said, “because I’m the one scheduled to be taking him into theoperating room.”

In a room full of strangers, God had seated me – twice! – next tothe one man who could pray with me tonight and my son in the morning. 

By Bonnie Kidder, Lafayette, Louisiana

This story first appeared in Guideposts magazine.

Provided to Precious Moments by

To receive a complimentary issue of Guideposts magazine and read more stories of hope and inspiration, click www.guideposts.com/PM

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Are you Getting a John Deere Tractor this Christmas? 14 Sep 2009, 7:57 pm

Well, maybe you aren’t getting a real, genuine John Deere tractor for Christmas. After all, how could that fit under the tree. But that doesn’t mean you cannot have John Deere on your tree. Our newest John Deere ornaments show the excitement of every little boy as they open up a their John Deere-themed gifts.

These Christmas ornaments are a perfect way to remember Christmas 2009 and a great way to reminisce for in the future as you decorate your Christmas tree. Pass down these collectible ornaments to your son or grandson and they’ll forever remember the year they got their first Deere.

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Here Comes Santa Claus… 11 Sep 2009, 7:53 pm

We’ve launched a new collection of Santa Claus figurines, ornaments, and gifts. These Santa-themed items perfectly celebrate the season and its playful nature. The adorable depictions of Santa Claus can adorn your Christmas tree, mantle. or decorative arrangements. 

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

New Birthday Angel Gifts 10 Sep 2009, 5:27 pm

Check out our new line of birthday angels and gifts for only $7.50 each.  These 12 angel figurines have been individually designed to add a touch of heaven-sent glamour to everyone’s birthday month. Each holds a colorful heart emblazoned with its month and set with a crystal birthstone, and their wings feature a pearlized finish.

Here the September angel is shown with a crystal symbolizing the birthstone Sapphire. See the entire line of Birthday Angels here.

Source: Precious Moments | Laura

Add Precious Moments to Your Website or Blog 9 Sep 2009, 7:58 pm

Do you have your own blog or website? Are you interested in displaying the latest Precious Moments blog posts? Well, here is your chance. You can embed our latest blog posts ranging from Disney figurines to 2009 Precious Moments ornaments on your own site. Simple copy the code below and paste it on your blog or site. That’s it! The last blog posts will be displayed on your site with images and links to the actual post.

Now is your chance to add some Precious Moments to your site. Let us know if you embed our posts on your site and what you think. The code needed is below.

<script src=”http://pipes.yahoo.com/js/listbadge.js”>{“pipe_id”:”cc03c5bbc7c7e7deaba8926990f5c13f”,”_btype”:”list”}</script>

Source: Precious Moments | Dan

Christmas card ideas 9 Sep 2009, 5:39 pm

My friend Andrea is one of the most organized people I know.  It is barely September, and already she is planning her Christmas cards for this year.  Yikes!  I’m lucky if I get mine in the mail the third week of December after scrambling to find a recent photo of the kids I can use! 

Well here at Precious Moments we aim to please.  Click here to grab some free Christmas clip art that you can use to make a lovely holiday card that is not only personal, but less expensive than those store-bought cards – unless you are like Andrea who buys her Christmas cards on sale Dec. 26th to use the following year.  Enjoy!

Source: Precious Moments | Laura

Hallmark Ornaments

Hallmark ornaments: Sneak peeks, news and notes for Hallmark Keepsake Ornament collectors.

2012 Hallmark Ornament Dream Book Online for KOC Members Monday, 19 March 2012, 2:06 pm

If you are a member of the Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Collectors Club, you can view the 2012 Dream Book online starting today. It is at KOCMembers.com. You’ll need to enter your membership number and zip code to have access. If you aren’t a KOC member, don’t worry. Everyone will be able to view the Dream Book on the Hallmark site starting in April.

For you nonmembers, here’s a peek at the 2012 Hallmark ornaments from A Christmas Story:

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2012 Snowball and Tuxedo Hallmark ornament Thursday, 15 March 2012, 1:56 pm

Joanne Eschrich sculpted the 2012 Snowball and Tuxedo ornament, Downhill Thrills. It is the 12th ornament in this popular series.

And here’s three 2012 Hallmark ornaments by Becky Hottel. Godchild:

2012 Baby Boy’s First Christmas:

and, Snow In Love:

According to Hallmark’s Facebook page, the 2012 Dream Book will be online at KOCMembers.com as early as March 19, arriving in homes of KOC members the week of April 2, and available at retailers and online at Hallmark.com around April 9.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

A few more 2012 Hallmark ornament pictures Wednesday, 14 March 2012, 3:13 pm

The 2012 Hallmark ornament line will include a Gone With The Wind ornament featuring Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler:

There is also a Pepe Le Pew ornament sculpted by Sharon Visker:

The 2012 Harley-Davidson Motorycycle Milestones ornament is a 2011 Street Glide FLHX. It is the 14th ornament in the series and was sculpted by Don Palmiter.

I’ll be back soon to post more pictures of 2012 Hallmark ornaments.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2012 Beauty of Birds Hallmark ornament Tuesday, 13 March 2012, 2:19 pm

Here’s a picture of the eighth ornament in the Beauty of Birds series. This Painted Bunting was designed by Edythe Kegrize.

I’m anxiously awaiting the 2012 Hallmark Ornament Dreambook!

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2012 Frosty Fun Decade Hallmark Ornament Wednesday, 7 March 2012, 3:20 pm

Here’s another 2012 Hallmark ornament picture for you. This one is the Frosty Fun Decade ornament.

The 2012 Dreambooks should be mailing out in another week or two. Hallmark should be posting the Dreambook online after the Dreambooks are mailed out–perhaps by the end of March. Keep your fingers crossed.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2012 Hallmark Ornament Sneak Peek: 12 Days of Christmas Tuesday, 6 March 2012, 2:33 pm

The first ornament in the Twelve Days of Christmas series (introduced in 2011) was very popular and is commanding high prices on Ebay. The 2012 ornament in this series, Two Turtle Doves, is just as beautiful, if not more so. The prices for the first ornament will continue to rise if the remaining ornaments in the series are as nicely done as the first two.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

Spring Hallmark coupon Monday, 5 March 2012, 8:31 pm

The April edition of Ladies Home Journal will have a Hallmark coupon in it good for $5 off a $10 purchase.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2012: Final Year for Hallmark Barbie and Mattel Ornaments Wednesday, 29 February 2012, 3:28 pm

Due to changes in Mattel’s licensing program, 2012 will be the final year for Hallmark Barbie ornaments and the popular Fisher-Price ornaments. Hallmark issued the following information regarding this change:

Hallmark takes pride in offering all of the top five licenses for our product categories, and seven of the top 10 licenses. Having contracts with companies like Disney, Warner Brothers, Lucasfilm and many others means we create products that your customers look for in your stores.

Unfortunately, in the highly competitive licensing arena, the game is constantly changing.

That is the case with Hallmark’s 20-year relationship with Mattel. In the past couple of years, Mattel changed its licensing strategy, which means Hallmark’s licensing requirements no longer align with Mattel’s approach. Hallmark and Mattel wished to continue to work together on ornaments, but because Mattel had changed its long-standing approach to licensing, it was not possible for Hallmark and Keepsakes to remain in the relationship. As a result, 2012 is the last year Hallmark will have any Mattel properties – most notably Barbie and Fisher-Price. And the place where this will be most evident is in Keepsakes.

In the 2012 Dream Book that mails in mid-March, two series Barbie ornaments are noted as “final in series.” You may have collectors who ask questions once they read their Dream Books. So we are giving you this information directly before your customers received their Dream Books in their homes to help prepare you with answers to a few potential questions. Your sales representatives will be talking to you about this topic as well.

Q. Will there be Barbie ornaments in the 2012 Keepsake line?
A. Yes, there are 12 Barbie ornaments in the 2012 model line, as well as one exclusive ornament for the Barbie convention. There also will be two Fisher-Price ornaments. (If the shopper has not already seen the 2012 Dream Book, make sure to give them one when they are available in your store.)

Q. The Barbie series ornaments say they are “final in series.” Does this mean Keepsakes is starting a new Barbie series in 2013?
A. No, this is the final year for Barbie ornaments since Hallmark won’t have the license to create any Mattel products beginning in 2013.

Q. Is there any chance you’ll reconsider, or I’ll bet if enough consumers complain to Hallmark, you’ll reconsider.
A. It’s not about Barbie or Fisher-Price; Hallmark loves those properties. We know they’re very popular and we’ve enjoyed working with them and with Mattel over the years. Since Mattel has changed its business strategy, the goals of our two companies just don’t line up right now. If Mattel’s strategy changes in the future, we would gladly do business with them again.

Q. I have been a long-time collector and love the Barbie products. What is Hallmark going to do to replace Barbie ornaments?
A. Keepsakes offers a wide range of options for ornament collectors, and while Barbie may not be in the line in 2013, ornament collectors who buy for their children or who buy for themselves will find a variety of options that will be equally as fun to collect.

Q. If a customer is really angry about this change, who should they talk to?
A. You can tell your customers that Hallmark wanted to continue to offer Mattel licensed products, but Mattel changed its licensing approach. As always, however, they can call 1-800-HALLMARK if they want to do so.

Q. Will a different company be making Barbie ornaments in 2013?
A. Hallmark has no way of knowing if or whom Mattel may work with in the future.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

New Hallmark Coupon Thursday, 8 December 2011, 12:27 am

Hallmark has a new coupon on their website for $5 off a $10 in-store purchase. It does not exclude ornaments and it is valid through 12/24/2011. I found it on the “See All In-Store Offers” page at:

http://www.hallmark.com/online/offers/in-store-offers/

It is in the right hand column of the page.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

Another Hallmark Coupon Good on Ornaments Monday, 21 November 2011, 7:03 pm

Hallmark has issued another $5 off a $10 purchase coupon on Facebook. The coupon does not exclude ornaments. You need to act fast though because there are a limited number of coupons. Here’s the link:

http://on.fb.me/Coupon_thks

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

Hallmark Coupon on Facebook Thursday, 3 November 2011, 3:21 pm

If you hurry, Hallmark has a coupon on Facebook for $5 off any purchase of $10 or more. Go to this link: http://on.fb.me/FBoffer_HOH to print. The coupon does not exclude Hallmark ornaments and is valid through November 13, 2011.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Hallmark Happiness Is…. Ornament Monday, 17 October 2011, 4:17 pm

Look for another new ornament at the Hallmark Open House event in November. Happiness is a Warm Cookie will be available beginning November 4, 2011.

This ornament was sculpted by Tracy Larsen and is 2″ x 2.5″ x 1.75″. You’ll also find coordinating holiday plush.

If you check your independently-owned Hallmark stores, you may see this ornament before November. It has already shipped to Hallmark stores. It is also available online in the 2011 Hallmark ornaments at AMM/Christmas Past.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

They’re baaaaaaaaaaaack! Hallmark Coupons. Sunday, 16 October 2011, 1:09 pm

The November issue of Taste of Home has a $5 Off a $10 purchase at your Hallmark store. This is a great coupon because it does not exclude Hallmark ornaments. Look through your November and December magazines carefully. I suspect we’ll see this coupon in several more magazines.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

Hallmark Mystery Ornaments – What Do You Think? Monday, 26 September 2011, 3:09 pm

Have you seen the Mystery Ornaments that Hallmark is releasing in October?  They will be in a sealed box and you won’t know which one of the three ornaments you get until you open the “All Sales Final” box.  These ornaments will be available only at Hallmark Gold Crown stores.  What do you think?  Will you be purchasing these?

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Hallmark Ornament Set: Seeking the King Tuesday, 23 August 2011, 7:27 pm

Have you been collecting the Mary’s Angels nativity set available to members of the Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Club?  I just received a flyer in the mail with this picture:

It states that this set will be available beginning September 10, 2011.  You should know that most the stores have already received these ornaments and some even have them available for sale right now.  Check your local Hallmark store to be sure you get yours.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Limited Quantity Hallmark Ornaments Available in October 2011 Monday, 9 May 2011, 1:17 pm

Here’s the other three ornaments that will be released in limited-quantities for the Hallmark Ornament Debut Event, October 8-9, 2011.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Hallmark Limited Quantity Ornaments Available in October Sunday, 8 May 2011, 6:45 pm

The Hallmark Ornament Debut event is scheduled for October 8-9, 2011.  There will be six limited-quantity ornaments released that weekend.  Here’s a sneak peek at three of them:

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Limited Quantity Hallmark Ornaments – Premiere Releases Wednesday, 27 April 2011, 12:58 pm

Here’s the rest of the limited quantity ornaments that will be released July 16, 2011 for the Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Premiere:



Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

Santa’s Sweet Ride 5th Anniversary Limited Quantity 2011 Hallmark Ornament Wednesday, 20 April 2011, 7:17 pm

To celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Santa’s Sweet Ride series, Hallmark is producing the limited-quantity ornament shown below.

This ornament was designed by Tammy Haddix and is 5 1/2 inches tall.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Barbie Limited Quantity Hallmark Ornament Tuesday, 19 April 2011, 1:58 pm

This porcelain and fabric Peaches ‘N’ Cream Barbie ornament will available for purchase in limited quantities during the Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Premiere, July 16-17, 2011.  It was designed by Patricia Andrews.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Limited Quantity Wizard of Oz Ruby Slippers Hallmark Ornament Monday, 18 April 2011, 2:42 pm

Here’s my favorite of all the limited quantity ornaments that will be available at the Hallmark Ornament Premiere in July.  I’m not necessarily a collector of Wizard of Oz ornaments.  I just buy what I like.  And I really like this ornament.

You can pull the string to make the ruby slippers click together.  This ornament was designed by Debra Murray.  On the front it says “There’s no place like home.”  Well done, Debra and Hallmark!

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Limited Quantity Ornament for Hallmark Ornament Premiere Sunday, 17 April 2011, 6:16 pm

There will be 9 limited-quantity ornaments available for purchase during the Ornament Premiere, July 16-17.  The ornament featured below, Holly, is a male fairy to accompany this year’s Fairy Messengers ornament, Mistletoe. 

I’ll post pictures of more 2011 Hallmark limited-quantity ornaments soon.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

A New Hallmark Ornament Series Monday, 28 March 2011, 2:39 pm

Hallmark is starting a Disney/Pixar Legends series in 2011.  The first ornament will depict a scene from the movie Up!  Here’s a sneak peek for you.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Club Ornaments Sunday, 27 March 2011, 1:52 pm

In addition to the Christmas Window ornament, there are two other ornaments available to Keepsake Ornament Club members with their paid membership.

Hide ‘N’ Peek was sculpted by Mike Adair.  You can turn the crank to see toys pop up from their boxes and hear a version of “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers.”

Starlight Angel was sculpted by Edythe Kegrize and Kristina Gaughran.  Edythe started this ornament as a tree topper for Hallmark’s Wonder & Light collection.  It was then scaled down to be ornament size at 5 1/2 inches tall.

Keepsake Ornament Club members can pick two ornaments with their paid membership, but they can also purchase the third ornament.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

2011 Hallmark Ornament: Frosty Fun Decade Monday, 21 March 2011, 3:14 pm

The second ornament in the Frosty Fun Decade series looks as cute as the first.  Here’s a photo of it:

This ornament was designed by Tammy Haddix.  A repaint of this ornament will be available at the KOC 25th Class Reunion this summer.  The repaint will have a red and white hat, red mittens, green scarf, and blue buttons.

Source: Hallmark Ornaments | Xmasnut

WKN: Webkinz Newz

Polly’s Birthday Banner Sunday, 20 May 2012, 8:00 pm

 

 

 

 

Roberta here with another great craft for Polly’s upcoming surprise party. Today, we’re going to make a recycled paper banner from scraps in my scrap paper box. Here’s what you need:

 

Scraps of paper (different colors), string or yarn, glue stick, scissors, drinking glass, pencil

 

Here’s what you do:

1. Trace the drinking glass on each scrap piece of paper.
2. Cut out all the circles.
3. Glue two circles, back to back, on the yarn (sandwiching the yarn in the middle). Space your pairs of circles about two inches apart.
4. Let the glue dry.

When the glue is dry, hang up your banner!

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | EllaMcWoof

The Persian Palace Room Theme Sunday, 20 May 2012, 7:00 pm

Have you ever wanted to live in a palace? Ever since I was just a little elephant, that’s been a dream of mine. And now it’s coming true, with this gorgeous Persian Palace room! OK, so it’s not MY room, but I can live vicariously through my client!

 

 

My favorite thing about this theme is the color palette. I love the pinks, blues, turquoises and purples. I think this might be my favorite rare theme of all time – it’s just so pretty.

When I was designing this room, I wanted to make it comfortable and airy. That’s why I added not one but TWO beds, and a whole bunch of windows. I also think the pool in the corner adds an extra-special spa-like touch.

If you’re looking to build a palace of your own, make sure to visit the Curio Shop often and see what Arte has on sale. For other ways to get rare items, read on!

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | EllaMcWoof

Coming Soon: Sunset Giraffe Sunday, 20 May 2012, 6:00 pm

The Webkinz Sunset Giraffe will be arriving in July 2012!

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | sally

Backyard: Before & After Sunday, 20 May 2012, 5:00 pm

Today Elwin and I got to try landscaping – and I think it went pretty well! We actually consulted with Fluffington (who know everything there is to know about fancy plants) before we designed the Rabbit family’s backyard. Elwin and I knew we didn’t want to make their yard as extravagant as Fluffington’s, but we did want to have an area just for the grownups – and an area for the kids.

 

First, here’s the old backyard:

 

 

We’ve got a fountain, a quiet bench (perfect for reading), and, of course, we added in a swing set and slide for the new baby! What do you think?

 

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | EllaMcWoof

Aztec Theme Saturday, 19 May 2012, 7:00 pm

Hailey here with another Rare theme spotlight!  Today we’re going to take a look at the always amazing Aztec theme. Check it out!

 

 

The first thing I love about this theme is the floor – followed closely by the wallpaper! The various shades of gray, greenish-gray and bluish-gray work just perfectly together.

Next, I love how vibrant the reds, blues, greens and oranges are against the slate colors. My personal favorite pieces are the bed (I LOVE that bedspread) and the fire pit. Oh! And the totems. Those are just gorgeous.

If you’ve got a Webkinz who happens to love a striking, intricate theme, then this is the one to get.

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | EllaMcWoof

Coming Soon: FrooFroo Fox Saturday, 19 May 2012, 5:00 pm

The Webkinz FrooFroo Fox will be available in July 2012

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | sally

Roll-Up Sandwich Recipe Saturday, 19 May 2012, 4:00 pm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We’re going to need lots of tasty snacks for Polly’s surprise party so Stoogles came up with these delicious roll-up sandwiches.

What you need:

-          Flour tortillas

-          Thinly-sliced roast beef

-          Thinly-sliced Swiss cheese

-          Lettuce

-          1 tomato, finely chopped

-          Mayonnaise

-          Dijon mustard

-          Toothpicks

-          An adult assistant

What you do:

Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard on flour tortilla. Place a layer of sliced roast beef on top, followed by a layer of sliced cheese. Top with lettuce and a sprinkling of chopped tomatoes. Starting at one end of tortilla, roll up tightly and then secure with a toothpick. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Before serving, unwrap and cut in half.

Polly is going to love these sandwiches almost as much as she likes having a surprise party thrown for her!

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | webkinzworld

Simple Strawberry Ice Pop Recipe Friday, 18 May 2012, 10:00 pm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s a sweet idea for a treat to serve at Polly’s surprise party!

What You Need

-          Strawberries

-          Blender

-          Sieve

-          Ice pop moulds or cups

-          Plastic wrap

-          Wooden craft sticks

-          An adult helper

What you do

With the help of an adult, put the strawberries into a blender and blend until pureed. Using a wooden spoon, push through sieve into a medium bowl to remove seeds. Pour puree into ice pop moulds and stretch plastic wrap tightly over the top. Push a craft stick through the plastic wrap into each ice pop (the plastic wrap will help the craft sticks to stand up) and then place in freezer.

Let freeze overnight and then enjoy!

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | webkinzworld

NEW Wacky Webkinz World item: PASTRY TRAMPOLINE! Friday, 18 May 2012, 9:00 pm

 

 

 

New Wacky Webkinz World item now available: Pastry Trampoline!

 

If you love the smell of cinnamon, your pet will have a blast bouncing on this doughy dessert! It looks good enough to eat, but this cinnamon bun is really a bouncing treat!

You may find a new Wacky Webkinz World item each month at both Ganz and Webkinz eStores!

 

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | allison

Victorian Garden Theme Friday, 18 May 2012, 8:00 pm

Elwin here with a gorgeous OUTDOOR Rare theme – the only one, actually! It’s the Victorian Garden theme and it’s so special.

 

 

 

 

I mean, really? Have you ever seen anything so stunning in your life before? I made this garden for none other than Meriwether St. Bernard – Fluffington’s teacup loving aunt. She told me that she wanted a garden that would make the ladies in her book club sit up and take notice. And I think this garden did the trick!

My personal favorite pieces are the bird baths, tea table and intricate benches. Of course, I also love the various shrubbery and the variety of trees. Some of the flowers are from the W Shop (don’t  tell Meriwether!), and I think they work just perfectly. Actually, any flowers or trees would look wonderful in this gloriously green yard!

Source: WKN: Webkinz Newz | EllaMcWoof