American Girl's 2013 Girl of the Year *Saige* Doll {Review & Giveaway}

Ever since the holidays, the girls, {a} and {e}, have become completely obsessed with their gorgeous American Girl dolls. They have been playing with their collection of dolls and accessories non-stop. Thankfully, with the new year, we were introduced to American Girl's 2013 Girl of the Year, Saige. The Girl of the Year arrives every new year and is only available for the year she is introduced. That's it... ONE year only! This February, my not so little {a} will be celebrating her DOUBLE DIGIT 10th birthday and what a perfect time to surprise her with Saige. She's been religiously saving her money to get her, but thanks to my WONDERFUL friends at American Girl... she will be completely surprised when she opens up this adorable NEW doll on her birthday!

About American Girl 

If you haven't heard of American Girl, I would be SUPER surprised... but in case you don't know much about this uhhhh-mazing company, let me tell you a little about them.

American Girl is "Helping girls become their very best!" At American Girl, they celebrate girls and all that they can be. That's why they develop products and experiences that help girls grow up in a wholesome way, while encouraging them to enjoy girlhood through fun and enchanting play. {These are a few reasons why I LOVE American Girl.}

American Girl offers a wide variety of different products that are suitable for just about everyone. The American Girl character feature historical characters that highlight important past dates of America's past. My American Girl™ dolls are dolls that are created especially for every girl. Bitty Baby^® are adorable baby dolls that promote nurturing play among girls and are perfect for ages 3 and up. In addition to dolls, American Girl also offers American Girl magazine and Books that are written to help girls every step of the way. 

ace and friends thoughts

I was thrilled to see that Saige was the Girl of The Year (as was {a}). American Girl's  2013 Girl of the Year is a a spirited girl who draws on her passions to inspire action. The Saige doll is 18" tall, with bright turquoise eyes that open and close. She has long auburn hair that can be brushed and braided, and comes with both pierced ears and an artsy ring!

The story of Saige Copeland, tells of a young girl who loves the arts and her horses. But when both of her passions are threatened, she turns to her creative side. With imaginative solutions, she proves that one girl can certainly make a difference!

Saige Copeland loves spending time on her grandma's ranch, riding horses and painting. Her school made the tough choice to cut art classes, which means she's lost her favorite subject. So when her grandma decides to organize a "save the arts" fundraiser and parade to benefit the school, Saige jumps on board. She begins training her grandma's beautiful horse, Picasso, for his appearance in the parade. Then her grandma is injured in an accident, and she wonders what she can do to help. Can she ride Picasso in the parade and make her grandma proud? Can Saige still raise money to protect the arts at school?

Saige, the doll itself, is even more adorable in person. She is dressed in an indigo knit dress with cropped sleeves, geometric embroidery reminiscent of southwestern art, and a tiered skirt. Complimenting her sweet dress are tall leather-look boots with wrap straps, a turquoise-colored ring to bring out her eyes, plus fun earrings and blue cotton underwear.

Along with the doll is the Saige paperback book—an engaging story that will inspire girls to act on their passions!

As with other American Girl dolls, Saige does not disappoint. Her body is made of a soft cloth and the head and limbs are made of smooth vinyl. These dolls are extremely well made and will give the little girl in your life many years of enjoyment. You can pose each doll, including Saige and you can also easily style her hair with The Doll Brush or Sparkly Hair Pick. In addition to American Girl dolls being extra cute, I truly love that they encourage reading and inspire girls to reach for their goals, one day at a time.

Finally, I cannot wait to see {a}'s reaction at her birthday celebration. She will definitely jump.... for joy! After her party, I will certainly post some birthday pictures! 

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Buy It

2013 Girl of the Year, Saige along with many other American Girl products

can be purchased HERE.

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Win It

Thanks to American Girl, one LUCKY ace and friends reader will win a
*2013 Girl of the Year Saige Doll* of their very own!

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Online and Offline Fun With Webkinz Plus Toys

My kids have been fans of Webkinz for years.... so when they discover new Webkinz friends, I immediately hear all about them. They truly enjoy finding the *special code* and then having the ability to explore even further online with a new Webkinz friend.

Webkinz Butterscotch Retriever puppy dog from Ganz has soft tan fabric. This full size Webkinz measures 8.5 inches tall. As with all other Webkinz, this adorable dog comes with it's own special code to access it's virtual world.

Webkinz Rockerz (including this Poodle) are sassy rock & roll pets that unlock the magic of Webkinz World! Each pet includes a unique Secret Code. Enter the code at webkinz.com and bring your pet to life. With a Webkinz Rockerz pet, you'll receive a unique rock & roll outfit and access to an exclusive Rockerz challenge with awsome Stadium Rock prizes for your pets room.

Each and every Webkinz friend has a special eight digit code that can be used online to *adopt* them in the virtual Webkinz World. Upon being adopted online, kids have the ability to care for their Webkinz friend by feeding it, providing playtime and more. 

For even more fun and exciting adventures, Webkinz also offers the ability to play a game through Webkinz Facebook page. This Facebook App is similar to various other and popular city building games.  Webkinz codes are not a requirement or necessary to use on the Webkinz Facebook game page. You can build houses and businesses to improve the community's *happiness* level. When it came to playing the two different style games, my kids actually preferred Webkinz World... they felt there was more to do that was more appealing to them.

Also... Webkinz will be introducing a new iPad App and I know that will certainly be a BIG hit in our home. Webkinz + iPad = Giddy Kids.

As excited as my kids were to get these new Webkinz, I know that they will be adding other Webkinz friends to their holiday lists. There is such a wide variety to choose, ranging from the everyday *normal* pet to the more exotic, wild animals to various sea creatures and more. Definitely something for everyone and I have a feeling a Webkinz friend would delight a child this holiday season. Make sure to check out Webkinz Holiday Guide for gift ideas. 

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Buy It

Find Webkinz at a store near you – prices may vary

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Stay Connected

Follow Webkinz on Twitter and Facebook.

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Disclosure: I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Webkinz. I received a product sample and a promotional item to thank me for participating.

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LEGO Kidsfest - Coming to the Detroit area October 12th - 14th... $2 off Per Ticket! @LEGOKidsfest

Have a child that LOVES to build with LEGOs? Let me introduce you to one of the coolest events happening in the Detroit area, (as well as other states), LEGO KidsFest. 

What is LEGO KidsFest?

LEGO KidsFest is a three-day show filled with hands-on, interactive and educational activities for the whole family. Get creative in the construction zones, meet LEGO Master Builders, help build Creation Nation, experience LEGO Games, and see dozens of life-sized models made entirely from LEGO bricks. Please note: Activities may vary from city to city and all content is subject to change without notice.

Want to know more, please *Like* LEGO KidsFest on Facebook and Twitter. 

This is where you will be able to find the latest and greatest information on this fun and  highly interactive event!

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Save $2 off/ticket (ends 9/28)

SAVE $2 off each ticket purchased to the event!   Tickets must be purchased online .... See HERE for details!     

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[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free from the manufacturer of a PR Agency. Feld Entertainment is neither a sponsor nor endorser of this promotion.
Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.] Pin It

*New* Mattel Polly Pocket Playtime Pet Shop Playset {Review}

The school year is in full swing and my kids are truly exhausted upon their arrival home. All they would prefer to do is watch television or play video games. We are continually trying to encourage imaginative play over these other activities.With the introduction of new Polly Pocket playsets... convincing the girls to use their imagination is so much easier!

About Polly Pocket

Polly Pocket allows girls to transform ordinary situations into extraordinary adventures with their new line of small dolls and play sets  that continue to offer delightful and unexpected surprises.
 

This is the ultimate pet shop, where Polly doll can care for and nurture her eight pets until they find new homes! Your animal lover will enjoy helping Polly pick out a new pet to take upstairs on the elevator for grooming and bathing. Once Polly has dried off the pet, she can sit in the swing and rock the sweet animal to sleep. (The nearby lovebirds just might swing in unison!) When she's done, Polly doll can ride down the slide to pick up her squeaky-clean pet and then purchase toys and special treats from the dispensers.

• The ultimate pet shop, where Polly doll can nurture her pets
• 2 floors with a working elevator for tons of pet shop fun
• Pick out a new pet and go upstairs to give it a bath or rock it to sleep
• Polly doll's bendable arms make it easy for her to hold her pets
• Includes 1 Polly doll, 8 pets, 1 large swing, pet toys and tons of accessories

ace and friends thoughts

My girls were generously given the Polly Pocket Playtime Pet Shop Playset to help entertain them after school.

This set comes with a variety of different pieces, a doll, multiple pets, pet toys and more that allowed LOTS of creative play. The Playtime Pet Shop has a movable elevator, a pet carousel, a slide and a trap door (see below).

On the upper level, the Polly doll can be placed in the shoes and a handy lever move her back and forth allowing her to gives the pets a bath (see below). 

There is also a working treat dispenser. You can load and reload to give each of the included pets a treat! All you have to do is pull the lever and the food is dispensed. 

In addition to all the fun playsets, did you know that you can view Polly Pocket videos directly on their site? We recently watched a cute Polly Pocket video called Friends Finish First. This adorable movie is about making important choices.... such as between winning or helping friends. 

You too can view the movie below...

My girls truly enjoyed watching this entertaining movie about the importance of friendship. Really, who doesn't LOVE  a happy ending?!?!

Final Thoughts: These little things pets were a BIG hit!

To learn more, please visit the Polly Pocket website.

[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Mattel Polly Pocket. I received a product samples and a promotional item as a thank-you for participating.See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.]

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Introducing American Girl's Newest Historical Doll *Caroline Abbott* {Review & Giveaway}

The girls continue to be crazy obsessed over their stunning American Girl dolls. You can imagine their excitement whey they heard there was going to be an addition to the American Girl historical doll family.  This week, American Girl introduced and welcomed Caroline Abbott into stores. 

Next week, my now kindergartner {e} will be celebrating her 5th birthday and what a perfect time to surprise her with the beautiful Caroline Abbott. Thanks to my WONDERFUL friends at American Girl... I can't wait to see the excitement on her face when she opens up this adorable NEW doll.

About American Girl 

If you haven't heard of American Girl, I would be SUPER surprised... but in case you don't know much about this amazing company, let me tell you a little about them.

American Girl is "Helping girls become their very best!" At American Girl, they celebrate girls and all that they can be. That's why they develop products and experiences that help girls grow up in a wholesome way, while encouraging them to enjoy girlhood through fun and enchanting play. {These are a few reasons why I LOVE American Girl.}

American Girl offers a wide variety of different products that are suitable for just about everyone. The American Girl character feature historical characters that highlight important past dates of America's past. My American Girl™ dolls are dolls that are created especially for every girl. Bitty Baby^® are adorable baby dolls that promote nurturing play among girls and are perfect for ages 3 and up. In addition to dolls, American Girl also offers American Girl magazine and Books that are written to help girls every step of the way. 

ace and friends thoughts

I love the introduction of the historical dolls as we love to learn about each new time period the doll represents, in this case, we are eager to learn more about the War of 1812. 

This September—200 years after America secured its standing as a truly independent nation—American Girl’s newest historical character, Caroline Abbott, shows girls today how to stay steady and believe in themselves during difficult times. Caroline, an independent and adventurous nine-year-old girl whose story is set near Lake Ontario during the War of 1812, learns to face her most challenging moments using her heart as her compass. Going above and beyond to help those around her, Caroline gives of herself without expecting anything in return—becoming the kind of real everyday hero that any girl can be.

Living with her family in Sackets Harbor, New York, Caroline loves sailing with her shipbuilder father, and she even dreams of captaining her own ship one day. But after British sailors capture her father and cousin, Caroline does her best to keep the promise she makes to her father to stay steady and ride storms through to better weather. In the end, Caroline finds—and proves—her own steadiness and strength as she navigates the challenges of wartime.

“Our newest historical character, Caroline, is a brave, independent girl who teaches girls today that they can navigate life’s challenges by staying strong, making good decisions, and taking action,” says Jean McKenzie, executive vice president of American Girl. “We know our fans will be inspired by the stories of Caroline, who shows girls that they can set their own course to help make changes for the greater good.”

The Caroline doll is 18” tall with light aquamarine eyes and long blond hair. She arrives wearing an empire-waist dress trimmed with ruffles and a woven floral sash, lacy pantalettes, ribbed-knit stockings, pink shoes, with a Meet Caroline paperback book written by Kathleen Ernst. Her accessories include a faux-straw bonnet adorned with fabric flowers, a drawstring purse, and a little top that really spins.

As with other American Girl dolls, Caroline Abbott does not disappoint. Her body is made of a soft cloth and the head and limbs are made of smooth vinyl. These dolls are extremely well made and will give the little girl in your life many years of enjoyment. You can pose each doll, including Caroline Abbott in many different ways, whether she standing, sitting or even sailing. In addition to American Girl dolls being extra cute, I truly love that they encourage reading and inspire girls to believe in themselves... even in the most difficult of times.

Finally, I cannot wait to see {e}'s reaction at her birthday celebration. It will definitely be a dream come true! After her party, I will certainly post some birthday pictures!

Also make sure to check back to read my upcoming review of some amazing American Girl Innerstar University Books titles just perfect for Back To School!

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Buy It

American Girl's newest historical doll, Caroline Abbott
along with many other American Girl products are available NOW

and can be purchased HERE.

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Win It

Thanks to American Girl, one LUCKY ace and friends reader will win a
Caroline Boxed Set with Game (MSRP $39.95)

This keepsake boxed set features all six of Caroline’s beautifully illustrated books, filled with her inspiring stories. The box opens up to reveal a fun-filled board game where girls collect cards and earn points. The board game and playing pieces tuck into a storage pouch that folds up with an elegant ribbon closure.

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LEGO Kidsfest - Coming to the Detroit area October 12th - 14th... Chance To Win Tickets! @LEGOKidsfest

Have a child that LOVES to build with LEGOs? Let me introduce you to one of the coolest events happening in the Detroit area, (as well as other states), LEGO KidsFest. 

What is LEGO KidsFest?

LEGO KidsFest is a three-day show filled with hands-on, interactive and educational activities for the whole family. Get creative in the construction zones, meet LEGO Master Builders, help build Creation Nation, experience LEGO Games, and see dozens of life-sized models made entirely from LEGO bricks. Please note: Activities may vary from city to city and all content is subject to change without notice.

Enter below for a chance to win a pair of tickets to opening night at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. Complete one simple form... and you're entered*! Easy peasy!

Want to know more, please *Like* LEGO KidsFest on Facebook and Twitter. 

This is where you will be able to find the latest and greatest information on this fun and  highly interactive event!

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Win It

ONE LUCKY ace and friends (Michigan area only) reader will win
a PAIR OF TICKETS to attend the show opening night
in Novi, MI on Friday October 12th!

Enter HERE!

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*Giveaway details:  Winner will be randomly chosen by USFG and emailed their tickets directly on Friday, September 28th.

[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free from the manufacturer of a PR Agency. Feld Entertainment is neither a sponsor nor endorser of this promotion.
Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.] Pin It

Summer With The Kids Guide: *New* Mattel Polly Pocket Stick N Play Sets

Featured Sponsor

In a household of three kids, we find ourselves trying to get our kids to choose more imaginative play over watching television or playing video games. If you are a parent, you know that convincing your kids to *be creative* over electronics is often difficult. 

My daughters have always LOVED Polly Pocket, but I (as the parent) disliked ALL the small intricate pieces. Other moms have must have felt the same way because in response to feedback from moms (and girls), the popular doll line now features a new Stick 'n' Play innovation - suction components that ensure a Polly piece won't get lost again. Girls can enjoy the pint-sized fun at home or on the go as you head hit the road for summer travel.

About Polly Pocket

Polly Pocket allows girls to transform ordinary situations into extraordinary adventures with their new line of small dolls and play sets  that continue to offer delightful and unexpected surprises. 

Hangout House

Why go out when it's more fun hanging out at home? Polly doll's house delivers makeover adventures with Stick 'n' Play setup play. Each piece incorporates a suction cup, so you can rearrange furniture in funny new ways and really turn things upside down! The house is also filled with secrets and surprises, including walls that transform from day to night — or to different room settings. With so much to do, you'll definitely want to "stick" around!

• Comes with Polly doll and pet dog
• Lots of cute, colorful furniture
• Includes an awesome elevator
• Third floor transforms from a bedroom to a rooftop pool

Patio Playset

Build onto your Polly Pocket Hangout House (sold separately) with this ultra-stylish outdoor patio. You can use the Stick ‘n’ Play tiles to arrange the cute, colorful furniture and accessories any way you want!

• Comes with Lea® doll and adorable pet
• Pieces include tiki hut, chairs, grill, drinks, and snacks
• Lots of creative home-makeover play!

ace and friends thoughts

My girls were sent the new Polly Pocket Stick N Play Hangout House as well as the Patio Playset to enjoy... aren't they super cute!

Each set comes with a variety of different pieces, a doll and a pet that allowed LOTS of creative play. The Hangout House has a movable elevator, a pool that converts to a bed, a refrigerator and toilet that you can open and close... and so much more. The Patio Playset attached easily to the Hangout House with the included green colored tile. The furniture and tiki stand, grill and food were a fun little addition. The girls (as well as I) really liked the new *suction cups* style pieces. If you bumped or moved it, the pieces didn't tumble off and get lost. {love}.  The new Polly Pocket Stick N Play was a hit in our house and the girls are looking forward to expanding their collection. 

Suction cups stick easily and are simple to move around.

Sets attach easily together for added play.

Final Thoughts: Who knew such little things could be such a BIG hit!

To learn more, please visit the Polly Pocket website.

[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Mattel Polly Pocket. I received a product samples and a promotional item as a thank-you for participating.See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.]

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