Our Top Game Picks:

Xbox 360

The Beatles: Rock Band – Join John, Paul, George and Ringo on-stage at legendary shows, behind closed doors in the recording studio, and in dreamscapes that bring their psychedelic imagery to life. The acclaimed Rock Band elements of interactive play and full-band capacity are here, but with brand-new additions. This will be the first music game to offer harmonies, challenging you to recreate The Beatles’ vocal blend. There are custom-built models of the instruments that the helped to make iconic; audio straight from the masters; and graphics that take you on a magical tour through the key moments in Beatles history. Produced with the full cooperation of The Beatles and Apple Corps, the game is packed with fab extras. Master the songs to hear rare audio and view unseen photos from the archives

Playstation 3

SingStar Queen, for the PS3 and PS2 consoles, features over 20 chart-topping tracks from the iconic pop rock band including, “We Are the Champions,” “We Will Rock You,” “Another One Bites The Dust,” “Under Pressure,” “Your My Best Friend,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” and many others. A new voice control menu feature has also been added to SingStar Queen PS3 which enables players to scroll through the song carousel, select the tracks they’d like to sing and puchase songs through the SingStore by simply speaking into the microphone.

Nintendo Wii

Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles, available November 17 is the follow up title to one of best selling “M” rated Wii games ever – Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles. It features classic moments from the Resident Evil franchise with cooperative 2-player gameplay so parents can enjoy some adult fun together (it is also a single-player game).

The Resident Evil series has been running for more than a decade, sold more than 40 million units as it’s become a part of the cultural lexicon and even spawned four movies. Whether it’s a chance to connect with an older child or just unwind battling some good old fashion zombies, at less than $50, it’s a great gift for a parent looking for entertainment this holiday season.

Playstation 2

Marvel Super Hero Squad – Inspired by toy line and action-packed animated Marvel TV series of the same name, Marvel Super Hero Squad is an action/fighting game that allows players to fight through campaigns full of adventure, or wage an all-out battle in the streets of dynamic environments as you mix and match heroes and villains with their own unique powers and abilities. The game features multiple play modes, including four-player multiplayer and two-player coop, as well as a roster of 20 playable villains and heroes from the Marvel universe.

PC and Download Games

ORDER OF WAR is a historically accurate, World War II real-time strategy game that takes the genre to new heights. Massive-scale battles and epic warfare are brought to life with cinematic intensity as players are challenged to take command of vast numbers of infantry, tank battalions, heavy artillery and aircraft. Planning multi-pronged strategic assaults, players will navigate their ways through missions based on key historic events and operations from 1944.

Nintendo DS

SPACE INVADERS EXTREME 2 is an evolution of the legendary shooting game and a must-have for arcade fans everywhere, offering more strategic, immersive gameplay. Maintaining the simple premise that launched the popularity of SPACE INVADERS in 1978, this latest installment features pop-art visuals, an enhanced battle system, a challenging new time attack mode and an expanded gameplay progression. In addition to the ever-addictive single player modes, players can challenge their friends through multiplayer mode and compete on scoreboards with gamers around the world!

KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days – An immersive and action-packed real-time world featuring familiar FINAL FANTASY® and Disney characters, KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days revolves around Roxas, the “other” hero from KINGDOM HEARTS II. Players follow Roxas through his days as a member of Organization XIII, searching for the meaning of his existence. By uncovering the events that took place during the year that Sora was asleep, an essential piece of the puzzle in the KINGDOM HEARTS Saga will be revealed.

Many of these game titles are available of different game platforms!

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Now, I’ve never cooked a turkey on my own or a large traditional family meal for that matter, so right off the bat I’m thinking this might  be an interesting task.. I might fail, but hopefully things go well and no one gets sick!

Since most of the family lives out of town and we’re not able to get together for each major holiday, we were thinking of giving the family their gifts so they can take them back home with them and put them under the tree when it’s time. The gifts would be wrapped already of course and it would definitely work.. as long as no one got nosy!

One of family members is really big into Star Bucks Coffee.. so we figured we would get him a nice little Start Bucks care package, including Starbucks Mugs. Shop.com has some pretty affordable ones and they have a cute little gift package which includes Star Bucks coffee for less than $18.. so this might be the way we go. There’s also a gift basket for around $35 that they might like as well.

I like Shop.com, we usually find some pretty good deals there.. last year we bought a great priced dinnerware set that I loved. We got a pretty good deal on the set so hubby was happy too! This year, I’m going for the Paula Deen Dinnerware set!

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Baked pumpkin seeds provide a great source of dietary fiber along with a nutty flavor. So, instead of popping that bag of popcorn tonight, grab your favorite Halloween movie, sit back with your toasted pumpkin seeds and enjoy.

Prepping the Seeds

First, scoop out all of those seeds and put them in a glass bowl. Next, separate the seeds from all the stringing pumpkin meat. You’ll need to do this fairly quickly because once they’ve sat long enough to have gotten too dry, they will be harder to clean.

Using a cold-water rinse, finish taking off what is left of the stringy stuff (there will be some little bits left more than likely) off the seeds. Tip: place a strainer in the sink so all that pumpkin goop doesn’t go down your sink.

Once your pumpkin seeds are completely clean, put them on a waxed paper cookie sheet to dry and dry them overnight. Tip: If you like your seeds salty, like I do, you may want to let them sit in a bowl of salt water overnight. Be careful though and don’t over salt the water. Remove from bowl of water and dry as stated above.

Now that your pumpkin seeds are prepared, let’s get to the actual cooking of them. Here are both a microwave and oven baked recipe for you to choose from. Note: Preparation is the same for both of the following recipes.

Microwave Pumpkin Seed Recipe

Place salted butter in a microwavable rectangular baking dish and heat for about 30 seconds. Place seeds into pan and toss through the melted butter. Spread the seeds out evenly into one layer on the bottom of the dish. Microwave on high for about 8 minutes or until seeds are a light golden color. Make sure you stir the seeds every couple of minutes while in the microwave to prevent burning.

Oven Baked Pumpkin Seed Recipe

Spray your seeds with butter spray. Cook for 1 hour at 350 degrees. Watch for them to lightly brown and then take them out and season with your favorite seasonings. Some popular seasonings include salt and garlic. Let them completely cool before enjoying.

What To Do With Leftovers

You can store any leftovers of your pumpkin seeds in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 3 months. If you choose to refrigerate them, they will last for about a year in an air tight container.

Did You Know?

Pumpkin seeds are not the only seeds that can be eaten this way?  Butternut and acorn squash seeds can also be cooked just like the pumpkin seeds so give them a too for an easy and festive fall snack!

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Caramel Apples

Ingredients:

6 apples
1 (14 ounce) package individually wrapped caramels
2 tablespoons milk

Directions:

Lightly butter a baking sheet and set aside.  Remove the stem from each apple and stick a craft (popsicle) stick into the top of each apple.  Unwrap caramels and place caramels and milk in a microwave safe bowl.   Microwave approximately 2 minutes, stirring half way through.  Carefully remove caramel from microwave and let cool for about 1 minute.  Quickly roll each apple in caramel until well coated.  Place on prepared baking tray and allow to set.

Monster Party Mix

Ingredients:

* Be warned this mixture is very rich and contains quite a bit of sugar… serve in small amounts!

1(11 ounce) package of small pretzels
1 (10 ounce) package miniature peanut butter filled crackers
1 cup sugar
½ cup butter or margarine
½ cup light corn syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 (10 ounce) package M&M’s
1 (18 ounce) package candy corn

Directions:

In a large bowl combiner pretzels and peanut butter crackers and set aside.  In a large saucepan combine sugar, butter and corn syrup.  Bring to a boil over medium heat and simmer for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and baking soda.  Pour over pretzel mixture and stir until coated.  Transfer mixture to a greased baking pan.

Bake at 250F for 45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.  Remove from oven and break apart while warm then allow to cool completely.  Transfer to large bowl and toss with candy corn and M&M’s.  Store in an airtight container.

Easy Halloween Party Mix

Ingredients:

10 cups prepared popcorn
1 package peanut butter chips
1 cup candy corn
1 cup chocolate chips

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.

Hot Witch’s Cider

Ingredients:

1 gallon apple cider
1 (16 ounce) can frozen orange juice concentrate
2 cinnamon sticks
2 cloves

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan.  Simmer over low heat for approximately 15 minutes.  Transfer to punch bowl and serve.

Pumpkin & Goblins Punch

Ingredients:

1 (12-ounce) can frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
2 (1-liter) bottles of ginger ale
1 package orange sherbet

Directions:

In a punch bowl combine condensed milk and orange juice concentrate.  Add ginger ale and mix well.  Right before serving top with scoops of orange sherbet and serve.

Scary Frozen Bugs

Ingredients:

*These are great for serving in party punch or drinks.

Water
Raisins

Directions:

Fill ice cube tray with water and place a raising in each ice cube.  Freeze and use.

Mummy Dogs

Ingredients:

6 hot dogs
1 package ready to bake pastry
Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Wrap each hot dog in a pastry sheet and lightly brush with melted butter.  Sprinkle parmesan cheese over top.  Place “mummy dogs” on a lightly greased baking tray and bake at 350F for approximately 15 minutes or until golden and baked through.  Top with “blood” (ketchup) and serve.

Halloween Burgers

Ingredients:

6 hamburgers or veggie burgers
6 slices cheese
Pitted olives
Red and green bell peppers
6 lettuce leaves
6 hamburger buns (split)

Directions:

Using a pumpkin shaped cookie cutter cut cheese into pumpkin shapes.  Cut olives into shapes for eyes and nose.
Cut bell peppers into shapes for mouth and pumpkin top (green pepper). Cook burgers according to recipe and during the last few minutes of cooking top with cheese.  Carefully remove and place into lettuce-lined buns.  Garnish pumpkin face using olives and peppers.  Serve open top.

Ghostly Eyeballs

Ingredients:

2 packages red jello
Vanilla ice cream
Raisins
Red decorating jell

Directions:

Prepare jello according to package instructions.  Fill individual glass serving bowls with jello and place in refrigerator to set. Once jello has set, using a spoon scoop out a circle of jello in center of bowl.  Fill circle with one scoop of vanilla ice cream. Place one raisin in center of ice cream and using red decorating jell paint lines going down the side.  This will create a “bloodshot eye” swimming in “blood”.

Pumpkin Cake

Ingredients:

3 1/2 cups self-rising flour
2 1/2 cups brown sugar
4 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
1 (16 ounce) can pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon all spice
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

In a large bowl combine flour, sugar and spices.  In a separate bowl combine beaten eggs, vegetable oil and pumpkin puree.
Mix well and add pumpkin mixture to flour mixture.  Mix well.  Fold in chopped walnuts (if using).  Place in a lightly greased pumpkin shaped baking tin.  Bake in a preheated oven at 350 for approximately 25 minutes or until golden and baked through. Decorate with orange frosting, candy corn and liquorice to form a pumpkin face.

Tip: If you don’t have a pumpkin shaped baking tin, you can use a regular tin and decorate as a pumpkin for a similar effect.

Graveyard Cupcakes

Ingredients:

Prepared Cupcakes
Frosting of choice
1 package gummy worms
1 package chocolate cookies or graham crackers

Directions:

Place a few cookies in a plastic bag and using the back of your hand or a rolling pin press down until mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.  Using a teaspoon make a small well in the center of each cupcake.  Frost cupcakes around well and sprinkle with cookie crumb mixture.  Stick a gummy worm into the center of each cupcake.

Skeleton Bones

Ingredients:

4 large egg whites
2 cups icing sugar

Directions:

Preheat oven to 250F.  In a large bowl beat egg whites until stiff.  Gradually start adding the sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
Keep beating and adding sugar until you have a meringue.   Line baking trays with paper.  Using a piping bag with a plain nozzle pipe a straight meringue bone line (approximately 4 inches long). Pipe a meringue ball at the end of each bone.  If necessary shape bones further using a small knife. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes or until bones have dried out.
Remove from oven and let cool on paper.

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All items on the list are available at Toys“R”Us stores nationwide and online at Toysrus.com/HotToys.

Toys“R”Us “Fabulous 15 (listed in alphabetical order):

• BAKUGAN® BATTLE BRAWLERS™ NEW VESTROIA™ Maxus Helios™ 7 in 1 from Spin Master®
• ChixOs™ Pink Design-A-Luxury Loft from Spin Master®
• Color Me a Song™ from Crayola Beginnings™
• Disney Netpal from ASUS
• Disney●Pixar Toy Story Interactive Buddies Talking Action Figures (Buzz and Woody) from Thinkway®
• Disney Princess: Just One Kiss Princess Tiana Doll from Mattel®
• Fast Lane JLX OVER DRIVE™ RADIO CONTROL ALL TERRAIN VEHICLE from Toys“R”Us
• Laugh & Learn™ Learning Farm from Fisher-Price®
• Little Mommy™ Baby Ah-Choo™ from Fisher-Price®
• Mindflex™ from Mattel®
• NERF N-Strike® Raider Rapid Fire CS-35™ from Hasbro®
• Star Wars Fan’s Choice Anniversary Edition Home One Mon Calamari Star Cruiser from LEGO®
• TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN CONSTRUCTICON DEVASTATOR from Hasbro®
  Wii Sports Resort™ from Nintendo®
• Zhu Zhu Pets™ Hamster from Cepia

THE TOYS“R”US 2009 HOLIDAY HOT TOY LIST

From Baby’s First Christmas to Big Kids, the Toys“R”Us Holiday Hot Toy List represents the top new toys for 2009 in each age group:

Baby’s First Christmas

3-in-1 Smart Trike from little tikes®

From babies to beginning riders, even the tiniest tots will enjoy taking a spin on this adjustable tricycle. Featuring a full metal frame, handle and shade canopy, parents can push their little ones while strolling the neighborhood and then pop out pedals when a child is old enough to ride on their own. Two included seats can be swapped out to accommodate different aged riders, including a harnessed version to keep babies safely strapped in. A storage bucket also lets kids take their favorite treasures along on any neighborhood adventure. No batteries required. Ages 10 to 36 months.

Laugh & Learn™ Learning Farm from Fisher-Price®

Babies and toddlers can have fun on the farm as they learn about animals, the alphabet, counting, opposites, colors and more in this double-sided role-play activity center. The magic begins when little ones open the barn door and crawl through, triggering sing-along songs, lights, music, sounds and fun phrases. In learning mode, kids are introduced to animal names, the sounds they make and the food they eat. While in music mode, a crop of songs will delight even the tiniest tots, with a selection of classics and fresh tunes. 3 “AA” batteries required (not included). Ages 6 to 36 months.

Little Superstar™ Jammin’ Band™ Musical Microphone from Fisher-Price®

Young tots can get rockin’ with a musical activity center designed to prepare them for their first pretend concert. Filled with instrument play and other fun activities, this working microphone lets toddlers amplify their voices as they sing along to six songs and four karaoke tunes or explore their creativity with “build a song” mode. As budding superstars grow, the microphone can be adjusted from a sit-and-play activity into a toy where kids can stand and dance while proudly showing off their performance. 4 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 6 to 36 months.

13 months to 2 years

Color Me a Song™ from Crayola Beginnings™

Combining Picasso and Miles Davis, tots can strike up a band and create their own tunes while exploring their first artistic expressions. Toddlers can exercise their creativity by drawing on a blank sheet of paper with the eight included Crayola Washable Triangular crayons, while the speed of their scribbles determines the pace of the music. The faster kids color, the more the tempo increases, and toddlers can mix sounds from a piano, banjo, trumpet and drum, while switching between different musical styles such as salsa, rock, swing and country. Built-in storage for eight triangular crayons allows kids to take their masterpiece-making-band on road trips. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 24 months and up.

Little Mommy™ Baby Ah-Choo™ from Fisher-Price®

Baby Ah-Choo sneezes, wheezes and sniffles as kids squeeze her tummy in an attempt to nurse her back to health. Toddlers will love making Baby Ah-Choo “all better” with accessories, such as “a spoonful of medicine” and a thermometer that interact with this baby doll to elicit fun reactions. Featuring over 30 sounds and phrases, such as, “Can I have a tissue?” and “My nose is running,” Baby Ah-Choo comes with a box of tissues and medicine bottle, offering kids everything they need to “cure” the common cold. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 2 years and up.

Sesame Street® The Original Tickle Me™ Elmo from Fisher-Price®

After more than a decade of bringing laughter to kids of all ages, The Original Tickle Me Elmo is back, exclusively at Toys“R”Us. Tickle him once and he’ll giggle. Tickle him twice and he’ll laugh. Tickle him three times and watch him convulse with laughter! This classic toy started a phenomenon when it was first released and still brings smiles to little ones today. When Elmo’s tummy is squeezed, he’ll let kids know, “That tickles!” as he breaks out in laughter. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 18 months to 4 years.

Tonka® CHUCK & FRIENDS™ CHUCK MY TALKING TRUCK™ from Playskool®

Chuck is a friendly little dump truck with the gift of gab, chatting while he works on his construction projects. With more than 40 phrases, sounds and actions, kids can lift his dump bed, press his roof or push his bumper to hear Chuck say phrases such as, “Time to find some dirt!” Chuck is fully interactive, featuring sound recognition that lets him roll his tires when kids call him. An accompanying storybook, “Get to Work,” lets kids explore Chuck’s world, which includes his construction vehicle friends. 3 “C” batteries required (included). Ages 2 years and up.

2 to 4 years

Disney●Pixar Toy Story Interactive Buddies Talking Action Figures from Thinkway®

Buzz Lightyear and Woody are back from their owner Andy’s toy box, and just like in the movies, they banter and bicker like real pals. With this Toys“R”Us exclusive, kids can choose between three different interactive modes to hear these buddies speak individually or with each other, using their actual voices from the movies. Between Buzz and Woody, the duo can say over 100 phrases, including lines from Toy Story and Toy Story 2, along with additional buddy interactions. 3 “AA” batteries and 3 “AAA” batteries required (not included). Ages 4 years and up.

Disney Princess: Just One Kiss Princess Tiana Doll from Mattel®

Stepping out of this holiday season’s highly-anticipated animated theatrical release from Disney Studios, The Princess and the Frog, Princess Tiana is ready to find her prince, even if she has to kiss a frog or two first. Dressed to regal perfection, Tiana is a vision of loveliness with a tiara, necklace and blue ball gown adorned with firefly lights that sparkle and shine. She’s accompanied by the frog prince, who desperately yearns for a kiss to transform him back into a man. When girls bring the frog up to Tiana for a kiss, she will turn her head away and say one of the phrases from the movie. The fourth time the frog is brought up to her, Tiana finally agrees to kiss the prince. 3 “button cell” batteries required (included). Ages 4 years and up. This item will be available in October.

Imaginext® Dragon World Fortress™ from Fisher-Price®

With action at every turn, this fortress world allows kids to open gates, make lightning crackle, and unleash a powerful dragon with a fierce roar. Two medieval-themed action figures activate all of the castle’s secret abilities, including a launching cannon to ward off intruders and a boulder that can be released down the dragon’s tail to attack invaders. With fantastic accessories and battle sound effects, kids will believe they’ve been transported to the age of swords and sorcery. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 3 to 8 years.

Paperoni® Deluxe Studio from Spin Master®

With a dash of imagination and this Deluxe Studio, young artisans can create 3D artwork using tiny, colorful paper rolls. This mess-free set lets kids devise and craft animals, friendly faces and more using a child-friendly cutter that helps them effortlessly cut Paperoni paper rolls into six different lengths with the turn of a dial and the push of a lever. Offering additional depth to every work of art, crafty kids can design dozens of creations with 600 ½-inch Paperoni pieces, 32

9½-inch Paperoni pieces, one 2D self-adhesive template, one 3D template, Tweezers, eight gems and additional embellishments. No batteries required. Ages 4 years and up.

SCATTERPILLAR SCRAMBLE from Hasbro Games

Preschoolers can challenge their friends in a race to climb to the top of a giant Scaterpillar as it dances and grooves to its favorite music. As kids move their marbles, one at a time, into the Scatterpillar’s hands, it squiggles and squirms, dropping marbles and setting players back. The first player to get all eight marbles to the top wins. 3 “AA” batteries required (not included). Ages 4 years and up.

Text & Learn from LeapFrog®

Little learners can explore in a grown-up way by mimicking how mom and dad use their Blackberries with this oversized version that provides educational fun through three different modes. Whether exchanging text messages with their puppy pal Scout or checking Scout’s planner to see his weekly schedule in pretend browser mode, toddlers will learn the basics of communicating while using a real keyboard. Additionally, children can match letters, identify shapes, learn letter names and more. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 3 years and up.

5 to 7 years

BAKUGAN® BATTLE BRAWLERS™ NEW VESTROIA™ Maxus Helios™ 7 in 1 from Spin Master®

Fans of Bakugan Battle Brawlers beware – the Maxus Helios Mega Bakugan has arrived and is available exclusively at Toys“R”Us. This ultimate fighter is formed by connecting seven different Bakugan marbles: Helios, Scraper, Klawgor, Foxbat, Fencer, Leefram and Spindle. Maxus Helios can battle as one united force, or individually, to give kids a variety of combat options to help them excel in Bakugan, which combines trading card game play with collectible marbles. No batteries required. Ages 5 years and up.

Barbie® Fashionista doll collection from Mattel®

Decked out in the best outfits, shoes and accessories, this collection of fashion-forward Barbie dolls each feature their own distinct fashion personality, including Glam, Cutie, Girly, Wild, Sassy and Artsy. With 12 points of articulation, these Barbie dolls can bend their elbows, twist their wrists, bend at the waist and roll their heads, allowing them to pose over 100 different ways. Each doll comes complete with one stylish outfit, and endless possibilities, for hours of fun. No batteries required. Ages 3 years and up. Each doll sold separately.

Battle Strikers™ Turbo Tops Tournament Set from MEGA™ Bloks

Battle Strikers Turbo Tops put a new spin on battling tops by letting kids launch without ripcords or pull strings, while offering unprecedented control. Kids rev up the handheld turbo launcher, which reaches speeds of 6000 RPM, and release their Striker top into the battle arena to compete against an opponent. Once the Battle Strikers are launched, kids can direct their tops with the flick of a fingertip through a magnetic controller that fits over two fingers. With 16 types of Strikers to collect, players can mix and match components to customize as they prepare for battle. The 17-piece Tournament Set includes two Turbo Launchers, two magnetic Controllers, two exclusive Strikers and one Battle Arena. 6 “AA” batteries required (not included). Ages 6 years and up.

ChixOs™ Pink Design-A-Luxury Loft from Spin Master®

The ChixOs Design-A-Luxury Loft, available exclusively in pink at Toys“R”Us, offers the perfect space for an amazing party, but the fun can’t begin before kids decorate their stylin’ pad. To prepare for the festivities, kids can dress and style three ChixOs dolls from 243 possible choices of mix and match body parts, then give them a dusting of glitter for the finishing touch. Junior interior designers can also decorate the loft by building 3D furniture and accessories when they join PixOs with water to create couches, tables or anything imaginable. No batteries required. Ages 4 years and up.

Egyptian Pyramid from playmobil®

Kids can bring home one of the seven wonders of the world with the Egyptian Pyramid, available exclusively at Toys“R”Us. Featuring a 14-inch high pyramid, which kids can construct, young architects will be able to assemble tricks and ambushes with removable plastic walls, a collapsible staircase, chute, scorpion trap, secret treasure chamber and trapdoor with slide. Now, children have everything they need to help the Pharaoh safeguard his jewels against treasure hunters. No batteries required. Ages 5 years and up.

Harumika™ RUNWAY SHOWSTOPPER SET from Bandai®

Future designers create fantastic fashions by folding fabric over a dress mannequin and locking the swatches in place. Once a new dress is formed, kids can capture images of their garment with an included USB camera before uploading them to the Harumika website where their styles can join an online fashion show. The set comes with everything needed to design runway perfect couture, including a pink dress form mannequin, stylus tool, several rolls of foldable fabric, accessories, rhinestones, stickers and two Harumika charms that hold special codes that unlock exclusive content on www.harumika.com. Even the handle on the display case offers fashion forward opportunities, transforming into a bracelet. No batteries required. Ages 6 years and up.

Matchbox® Rocky the Robot Truck™ from Mattel®

This hard-working, interactive dump truck is ready to roll with sensors, motorized movements and 100 phrases. Quickly becoming any child’s best friend, Rocky tells jokes, dances and flashes his headlights as he speaks. With a rugged design and a full-tilting bed, kids can even use Rocky for construction projects like loading up, moving out, hauling and dumping. When the work is done, Rocky even sleeps and snores. 4 “C” batteries required (included). Ages 3 years and up.

Moxie Girlz™ Jammaz™ dolls from MGA Entertainment®

Breaking into the fashion doll scene, Moxie Girlz are ready to help empower girls to express themselves with courage, determination and energy. Since there’s no better place for kids to have fun than at a rock-themed slumber party, all dolls in the Jammaz line, Lexa™, Avery™, Sasha™ and Sophina™, come decked out in their favorite pajamas with accessories guaranteed to help show off their inner rock stars. A wig, heart-shaped guitar, microphone, tiara and glasses complete the transformation from doll to pop princess. No batteries required. Ages 6 years and up. Each doll sold separately.

NERF N-Strike® Raider Rapid Fire CS-35™ from Hasbro®

Ready to take on any dart challenge, this NERF blaster has the capacity to hold up to 35 NERF darts at once, ensuring kids will have a blast long before ever needing to reload. Providing versatility, the NERF RAIDER can instantly switch from “single” fire mode to launch one dart at a time or “slam” fire mode to unleash a rapid stream of 35 darts. A removable stock and Tactical Rail System complete the package, allowing players to customize their blaster for every scenario. As an added bonus, the NERF RAIDER features a collapsible stock and a drum magazine that can be used with additional NERF products. No batteries required. Ages 6 years and up.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars™ Clone Turbo Tank™ from Hasbro®

When the Clone Army protects Jedi during a rescue mission or helps overcome an attack from the Separatist Droid Army, the Clone Turbo Tank is part of the action. This heavily armed and armored ten-wheel vehicle features a Tank Gunner™ action figure, cannon pods with firing missiles, a rotating gunner station, doors that can open and close, a removable command center and room for an entire squadron of Clone Troopers. To help the troops chase escaping droids, an included Speeder Bike™ can launch into action from the rear of the vehicle. Lights, sounds and Clone Trooper phrases complete the battle scenario for kids who are playing “a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away.” 3 “AA” batteries required (not included). Ages 4 and up.

TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN CONSTRUCTICON DEVASTATOR from Hasbro®

Kids can take control of the ultimate weapon in the evil DECEPTICON army with this monstrous TRANSFORMERS action figure that can be built by combining six different construction vehicles known as the CONSTRUCTICONS. Before converting into DEVASTATOR, children can pretend they’re waiting to ambush the heroic AUTOBOTS at a construction site with these Robots in Disguise,™ including LONGHAUL, MIXMASTER, SCAVENGER, RAMPAGE, SCRAPPER, and HIGHTOWER. After changing into its ultimate form, DEVASTATOR can unleash its weapons with lights and sounds that bring the excitement of this summer’s blockbuster film TRANSFORMERS: Revenge of the Fallen to life. 2 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 5 years and up.

Zhu Zhu Pets™ Hamster from Cepia

These adorable, furry, interactive hamsters double as the perfect family pet and a best friend. With five hamsters to choose from, kids can select one that reflects their personality, including Patches, the flower-lover; Chunk, a laid-back surfer; Pipsqueak, a tiny titan of power; Mr. Squiggles, who loves to explore; or Num Nums, who loves to eat. With more than 40 different sound effects and artificial intelligence, these pets will dart around the house, play in hamster tubes, run on wheels and more. Zhu Zhu Pets™ also make fun sound effects, such as toilet-flushing, teeth-brushing sounds and sleeping noises. 2 “AAA” batteries required (included). Ages 4 years and up. Each hamster sold separately.

8 – 11 years

Barbie® b-nails digital nail printer from Mattel®

Young fashionistas can glam it up like Barbie with a spa-like manicure in the comfort of their own home. This new digital nail printer, available exclusively at Toys“R”Us, allows girls to select designs from over 1,000 available images or upload their own creations from their computer. Whether using the printer to add decals over polish or directly onto a nail, young manicurists can place their fingernail into the printer after using scaling and sizing tools to select the perfect style. Printing takes only a few seconds and the designs last for days. No batteries required. Ages 8 years and up.

Disney Netpal™ from ASUS
Available in Princess Pink and Magic Blue, this Disney-themed netbook computer was designed with Internet safety in mind, allowing parents to create a web-safe computing environment for their kids with more than two dozen parental controls. Once kids turn on the netbook, they’re logged on to the Disney Desktop, an intuitive software program that offers simple operation for children, along with easy access to the Disney web browser, which is preloaded with several kid-friendly websites. The Disney Desktop also comes with a “gadget tray” with icons for easy access to applications and a collection of 15 widgets, including a stopwatch and a digital memo pad. Rugged and durable, this Toys“R”Us exclusive version has a spill-proof keyboard and a 16GB SSD drive that can withstand bumps. A preinstalled card allows the Disney Netpal to access networks wirelessly. 1 “4200mAh Polymer” internal rechargeable battery is required (included). Ages 6 years and up.

EyeClops Mini Projector from JAKKS Pacific®

Children can create their own big screen entertainment with this pint-sized projector that can display an image up to 60-inches when connected to a DVD player, multimedia player, video game console or other video device. Once kids plug the unit into the A/V jacks of any home entertainment device, they can turn their ceiling into an arcade, the side of their house into an outdoor movie theater or the seat in front of them into a TV screen. Children can also take their big-screen experience on the road by plugging the projector into an outlet with an AC adaptor while inside or powering it with an included battery pack while outdoors. 4 “D” batteries required (not included). Ages 8 years and up.

Fast Lane JLX OVER DRIVE™ RADIO CONTROL ALL TERRAIN VEHICLE from Toys“R”Us

Remote control drivers can take the wheel of the ultimate R/C experience with this miniature ATV that reaches scale speeds of 225 MPH, performs awesome stunts with self-propelled flipping action tires and has the ability to drive on almost any terrain, including land, water or snow. Kids can even take this Toys“R”Us exclusive to the air with a ramp-assisted jump that can propel the JLX more than 6 ½ feet. The JLX features a recyclable Nickel Metal Hydride battery pack, offering a longer battery life with each charge. 1 “9V” battery and 1 “12V” rechargeable Ni-Mh battery required (included). Ages 8 years and up.

Liv™ from Spin Master®

This new collection of dolls, designed to look like real teenagers, merges the world of fashion play with an online community. Using a code provided with each doll, children can peer into the daily routine of the Liv girls, Daniela, Sophie, Katie and Alexis, when they visit www.livworld.com, which offers daily diary entries, virtual closets filled with fashions, webisodes, games and more. Beyond offering a real teen perspective, each Liv doll comes with realistic glass-like eyes, 14 points of articulation for greater poseability and wigs that allow children to switch their doll’s hairstyle or color easily. No batteries required. Ages 5 years and up. Each doll sold separately.

Mindflex™ from Mattel®

Mindflex challenges players to test their mind-over-matter skills by levitating a soft foam ball in order to move it through an obstacle course, using only the power of their mind. Kids just strap on the included headset that contains sensors for the forehead and earlobes to measure their brainwave activity. With deep concentration, the ball rises on a stream of air, and when the mind relaxes the ball begins to descend. Players must master these mental maneuvers to guide the ball through an obstacle course that they design from hundreds of interchangeable combinations. Up to three friends can challenge each other with five unique game modes, including multiplayer games, to prove who is the most accurate mental warrior. 4 “C” batteries and 3 “AAA” batteries required (not included). Ages 8 years and up.

Star Wars Fan’s Choice Anniversary Edition Home One Mon Calamari Star Cruiser from LEGO® Systems, Inc.

Modeled after scenes from Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi, this 789-piece construction set, available exclusively at Toys“R”Us, contains enough pieces to build the classic Mon Calamari Star Cruiser’s command deck, briefing room and repair hangar. Developed after it was voted by fans as the most sought after Star Wars spacecraft never before produced as a LEGO model, this massive set also comes with an A-wing fighter that kids can build, featuring an opening cockpit, rear doors and two flick missiles. Six mini figures, including Admiral Ackbar, a Mon Calamari soldier, Mon Mothma, General Lando Calrissian, General Madine and an A-wing Pilot let builders take control of the ship by directing Admiral Ackbar on his command seat to plan an attack on the Empire with the Death Star hologram. No batteries required. Ages 9 – 14 years.

Big Kids

Bakugan® Battle Brawlers™ from Activision®

Now video game players can heed the “call to brawl” with the first Bakugan game developed for Xbox 360®, PlayStation® 3, Playstation® 2, Wii™ and Nintendo DS™. Taking control of their favorite Bakugan characters from the animated series, players can participate in intense battles and create their own Bakugan Battle Brawler in an environment featuring cartoon quality graphics and multiplayer combat. As an added bonus, the Toys“R”Us exclusive version of the game, available for Wii and Nintendo DS, offers players two exclusive in-game characters, Manion and Ravenoid. No batteries required. Rated “E” for “Everyone.” Video game systems sold separately. This item will be available on October 20.

DS™i from Nintendo®

Building on the popular Nintendo DS™ platform, this updated system combines the fun of handheld gaming consoles with the ability to take pictures and search the Internet. Available in black, blue or pink, the Nintendo DSi™ offers dual-screen, touch-sensitive play, and comes with a stylus to help control in-game action. Users can play any of the hundreds of existing DS titles or grow their gaming library with Nintendo DSi-specific titles and downloadable DSiWare™ content, including games and applications. The sleek, folding design easily fits in a hand or pocket, so users can listen to music as they walk down the street, get directions to the nearest restaurant or snap pictures they can edit, send to friends or upload to Facebook. One “lithium ion” rechargeable battery required (included). Ages 6 years and up.

Reader™ Pocket Edition™ from Sony®

With the capacity to store approximately 350 standard eBooks in a device that can easily fit into a pocket, this Reader lets anyone flip open their favorite books in the car, on a plane, at a restaurant or even in a library. Sporting a five-inch electronic display, and available in a variety of colors such as navy blue and rose, this device offers clear and crisp pages for easy readability. Users can also take the Reader on all of their trips, long and short, with up to two weeks of reading enjoyment on a single battery charge. The Reader comes equipped with a USB cable that can connect to a computer to download books from a variety of online sources, as well as public libraries across the country. One “lithium ion” rechargeable battery required (included). Ages 12 years and up.

Wii Sports Resort™ from Nintendo®

This sequel to the popular Wii Sports takes the action out of the console and onto a virtual island resort, filled with a dozen fun activities. Using the Wii Remote™ and Nunckuk™ controllers, players can take control of their Mii characters to compete against the computer or their friends in archery, basketball, bowling, golf, table tennis, fencing, air sports, canoeing, cycling, Frisbee®, power cruising and wakeboarding. Adding to the challenge, Wii Sports Resort comes with one Wii MotionPlus™ accessory that attaches to the base of a Wii Remote, enhancing players’ precision by recognizing the slightest twist or turn of the Wii Remote. No batteries required. Rated “E” for “Everyone.” Wii system sold separately.

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If you haven’t tried See’s Candies.. this Fall would be the perfect time to give your taste buds an awesome treat because they have some cool new designs and decorated candies for Halloween, Fall and Thanksgiving!

Halloween Treats:

Orange Twists – NEW – The tangy flavor of orange in a bite-size, melt-in-your-mouth candy. Individually wrapped and perfect for sharing. ($2.70 for 7 oz.)

Cat Lollypop Box – NEW – A cute box with magnetic hinged opening stuffed with See’s Candies Gourmet Lollypops. The box is purr-fect for storing secret treasures once the candy is gone! Flavors include Chocolate, Butterscotch and Vanilla. ($10.90 for 8.4 oz)

Chocolate Marshmallow Jack O’Lanterns – Cloud soft and drenched in honey, each marshmallow is covered in See’s famous milk chocolate, then hand-decorated with a Jack O’Lantern face. ($2.30 for 2 oz)

Trick-or-Treat Box – Give your little pumpkins the sweet treats they crave in this yummy assortment. Each box includes Molasses Chips, solid Milk Chocolate Balls, and one each of Scotchmallow®, Dark Chocolate Chip Truffle, Milk Chocolate Butter and Butterscotch Square.

Thanksgiving and Fall Treats:

Orange Krispys – NEW – Airy honeycombs of tangy orange crunch are enrobed in dark chocolate. A classic combination. ($7.80 for 8 oz)

Fall Harvest Box – Mini-sampler includes Molasses Chips, six solid Milk Chocolate Balls, Scotchmallow, Dark Chocolate Chip Truffle, Milk Chocolate Butter and Butterscotch Square. ($6.15 for 4.8 oz)

Autumn Fancy Gift Box – You’ll find milk, dark and white-coated chocolates, colorful Chocolate Leaves and See’s famous Truffles. The box is tied with a satin-edged organza ribbon for a beautiful autumn gift. ($17.90 for 12.1 oz)

Fall Favorites Tower – What’s better than one box of chocolates? Three! Find See’s most popular chocolates banded together and topped with a decorative display of three fall leaves. This signature set includes one pound of Assorted Chocolates (with seasonal fall sleeve), a Fall Harvest Box and Milk and Dark Chocolate Leaves. A great choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or as a special thank you.

Check out http://www.sees.com for more info and other great looking treats that are delicious!

Want to know more about See’s? Check out the book See’s Famous Old Time Candies: A Sweet Story
that I found available on Amazon.

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1. Halloween Wreath by Avante Carde
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The Craftaholic

Check out my etsy shop here and here!

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Here is a partial list of some ideas that you might consider. We’d love to hear your ideas as well! Leave a comment below if you have a paired costume idea! If you have a link on your blog about a costume idea or a crafty article on making your own costume, be sure to leave the link with your comment and we may feature it with our next batch of costume ideas!

Little Bo Peep & Her Sheep
Rich Boy and Poor Girl
Cookies and Milk
Fisherman and Fish
Babe and His Blue Ox
Santa and Mrs. Claus
Adam and Eve
Grapes and Bananas (or any other variety of fruit/veggie combos)
Ball and Chain
Toilet and Seat
Sonny and Cher
Republican and Democrat
Raggedy Ann and Andy
Card and Dice
Cat and Mouse
King and Queen
Dog and Cat
Salt and Pepper
Batman and Robin
Jack and Jill
Howie Mandel and a Suitcase Girl
Dora and Diego
Bill and Hillary Clinton
Danny and Sandy (from the movie Grease)
Cheerleader and Football Player
Frankenstein and His Bride
Baby Bottle and Rattle
Ketchup and Mustard Bottles
Nut and Bolt
Grim Reaper and Victim
Doctor and Nurse
Beast and Belle
Buzz and Woody
Captain Hook and Wendy
Peter Pan and a Lost Boy
Barney Rubble and Fred Flintstone
Pebbles and BamBam
SpongeBob Squarepants and Patrick
Desi and Lucy
David and Goliath
Pen and Pencil
Soccer Mom and Her Player (This can be done with various sports)
Tom and Jerry
Southern Gentleman and his Belle
Caveman and Cave Girl
Cleopatra and Pharaoh (King)
Harry Potter and Hermione
King & Queen of Hearts
Prince Charming and Princess
Shrek and Princess Fiona
Vampire and Dracula
Hansel and Gretel
Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe
Jack Sparrow and Elizabeth (from Pirates of the Caribbean)
Pilgrim Man & Woman
Pilgrim & Indian
George and Martha Washington
Race Car Driver and Pit Crew Member
Cowboy and Cowgirl
Plug and Socket
Austin Powers & Felicity Shagwell

Coming up with the costume ideas may be the easiest part but what about putting the two together? If you want to make your own costumes, you can find costume templates online or at your local craft store. Templates will definitely make the process easier. Don’t forget you can always go through your own clothes, any dress up clothes the kids may have and previous years’ costumes and put two of them together as well.

More Halloween costume ideas coming soon!

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Sure, a Mothers Day ring may not be the typical Christmas gift, but just think of how happy she would be to receive one under the tree this year! Not to mention the fact that it’ll be the best gift she receives! Or if your special mom has an upcoming birthday it would make a perfect gift for that occasion.

I actually purchased a new Mother’s Day ring for my mother a few years back for Christmas.. she loved it! It was a replacement for one that we had previously bought her so this year, I’m thinking she needs more Rose Gold Jewelry to add to her collection. Both my mother and my grandmother love Rose Gold Jewelry so I know this would be a perfect gift.

Kranichs has some beautiful Rose Gold Pieces. My mother isn’t much of an earring wearer but my grandmother is.. I think I have narrowed it down to a few select pieces of Rose Gold Jewelry, but I may need some help choosing just one for both my mother and my grandmother. Which two do you like best?

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I have to admit, when I opened the Halloween Cookie Bouquet didn’t want to eat them because the cookies themselves looked too cute to eat. I had a friend over when the package came and she couldn’t stop checking out the cookies and couldn’t stop complimenting on how well cute they were. The cookies looked just like they were advertised on the website.

After a good long few minutes of admiring the cookie designs, I decided it was time to try the cookies out to see if they were as good as they looked. At first glace you’d think the cookies were hard but they’re not. They were just right – soft enough to eat and a little stiff so that shipping didn’t crumble them to a pile of crumbs. The cookies themselves tasted great and between us and our friends’ children.. the cookies didn’t last long. I love that the cookies are larger that your average cookie and decorated so cool.  They whole package just looks great and I already know we want to send a few cookie bouquets to some family members this holiday season. (If only I could afford to hand these out at Halloween! I’d be the best house for treats in town!)

This particular cookie bouquet is called the “Monster Bash Cookie Bouquet”. This bouquet and their other Halloween bouquets will be available to order online at CorsosCookies.com from 9/2 to 10/31. For more edible Halloween gifts click here.

Corso’s Cookies makes other great holiday and event treats! From Anniversary, Wedding and New Baby cookie bouquets to Get Well, Congratulations, Birthday bouquets and more.

Visit http://www.corsoscookies.com for more info.

About Corso’s Cookies:

Like so many other kids, Tina Corso loved baking cookies. She started with an Easy-Bake Oven then graduated to baking with a real oven in her grandmother’s cozy kitchen, using cherished family recipes. Creating art was another of Tina’s passions, leading her to make and sell tee shirts, decorative clay pots, and , of course, cookies.

Being a smart cookie, Tina wondered if she could blend her twin passions of baking and art into a business. She started out small in 2001, creating uniquely cool, hand-decorated cookie bouquets and cookie gift baskets. To spread the word about Corso’s Cookies, Tina posted flyers and handed out business cards around the city of Syracuse. Her first customers were attracted by how beautiful the butter creme cookies were decorated – like edible works of art. After tasting them, folks clamored for more and told their friends about Corso’s Cookies. (Tina likes to say that the word about her cookies spread by mouth, literally – one delicious cookie at a time). Soon Tina’s dream of creating a thriving business out of her passions came true, and her home-based business expanded then moved to its current bakery location.

Since then, Corso’s Cookies has quickly become the company that people turn to for custom made, hand-decorated, beautiful, delicious cookies. The Corso’s Cookies Crew consists of nearly 30 talented bakers, gift designers and decorators, working together to create unforgettable gifts for the people special to you. Today, you can find Corso’s Cookies in more than 100 catalogs and web sites, including ProFlowers, Amazon, and Gifts.com.

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