American Girl News n' Views

What's Coming Up on agnewsnviews!!

2013-01-27T20:55:00.000-08:00

HI HI HI!!!!! Okay, I know I haven't posted in over a month- which is crazy!!! BUT I've been beyond busy with finals and getting back to school after break. SO, here are just some updates on what will be happening in the (hopefully) near future:

1. I'm going to be doing a few beauty photos of my dolls. These are artistic photos meant to look unrealistic, but are absolutely gorgeous. (Think child pageant photos). I'll be uploading photos of all my dolls, and telling you about the app I used to create them, because I'm doing this on my phone.

2. I'M SAVING UP TO BUY McKENNA'S ENTIRE COLLECTION!!!!!!!!! It's a little pricey, but I found someone who will be selling an entire McKenna collection, NEW and IN BOXES! I am beyond excited, but I've only saved about 5%. I'm trying really hard to save up and buy the whole thing! I'm going to be doing 2 things once I have that collection. First, an unboxing video of everything to show you all what it's like to unbox the ENTIRE collection!! I'll also be doing a review of everything and show more detailed pictures when everything is set up.

3. I've organized my doll corner!! (More like my doll wall...but whatever.) It's all nice and neat and I want to show it to you all! One weekend pretty soon I'm gonna take some pictures and show you how everything is set up and organized. It's pretty cool if I do say so myself... (I'll show you with and without McKenna's stuff!)

4. My plan for February is to show you guys some things you can do with your doll for Valentine's day! Maybe some cards, hairstyles, outfits, gifts, decorations and "food" ideas?!? (Think a V-Day party scene!)

That's pretty much all that's going on right now- so I'll be updating with stuff soon! Be on the lookout for updates, and I'll be blogging soon!

Girl of the Year Saige Copeland is Revealed!

2012-12-25T14:27:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone!!!!

First off- Merry Christmas to all those who celebrate! I hope everyone is having/ has had/ will have a wonderful holiday season!

Being that 2013 begins in only ONE WEEK, I thought it was finally time to reveal GOTY 2013: (all pictures taken from http://christene.hubpages.com/hub/Saige-Copeland-American-Girl-of-the-Year-2013 unless otherwise noted)

SAIGE COPELAND!

Isn't she pretty?! Saige has long wavy/curly medium brown hair, light skin, freckles, and blue eyes. She will also be the first Girl-of-the-Year to come with her ears pierced.

A few of Saige's items have even been released as well:

Saige (Book 1): "When Saige learns that her school will be cutting music and art lessons at her school she plans a fundraiser to help keep them. She looks to her grandmother and later a new friend for help." - taken from http://christene.hubpages.com/hub/Saige-Copeland-American-Girl-of-the-Year-2013 (Written By: Jessie Haas; Illustrated By: Sarah Davis)

Saige Paints the Sky (Book 2): "Saige is missing her grandmother. She takes comfort in painting and riding her favorite horse. These activities also give her an idea for funding her elementary school's art program. Now she needs a way to keep the horse from being sold".- taken from http://christene.hubpages.com/hub/Saige-Copeland-American-Girl-of-the-Year-2013 (Written By: Jessie Haas; Illustrated By: Sarah Davis)

Saige's Meet Outfit: Royal blue dress with navajo print design, brown slouch boots, and possibly a ring. Her hair comes in a loose side braid.

Saige's Accessories: I'm not quite sure what the accessories are yet- possibly a shawl, bracelet, and small book of some sort?

Outfit from Saige Paints the Sky (Book 2): Pink embroidered one-shoulder dress, gold cowboy boots, and a necklace.

Saige's (school?) outfit: A white top, jeans or leggings, sandals, and a navajo print ruffle sweater.

Saige's Pajamas: A graphic tee, printed shorts, slippers, and hair ties.
Saige's riding outfit: a floral top, jeans, pink belt, and floral embroidered boots.

Hot Air Balloon from Saige Paints the Sky (Book 2): Hot air balloon , messenger bag, map, binoculars, and a few other accessories.

Jewelry and purse: I'm not sure what this is going to be exactly?! Looks like a purse, two necklaces, and two sets of earrings.

Saige's Easel: Wooden easel, paintings, paintbrushes, paint palate, sketches, sketchbook, and a few other accessories.

Saige's Horse and Saddle: White and grey speckled horse with blonde mane and tail, bridle (headpiece). Sold separately is a black saddle. (It's rumored the horse's name is Georgia)

Express Yourself: "Find out what your art reveals about you. Questions, quizzes, and quick art projects will help you explore and express your feelings. Don't worry about being perfect. Just have fun." -taken from http://christene.hubpages.com/hub/Saige-Copeland-American-Girl-of-the-Year-2013. Also, on the corner of the cover they have the reference tab to Saige and her story.

Hope you all LOVE Saige, GOTY 2013!! I think she's awesome, except one thing: She's JUST LIKE Nikki, GOTY 2007! Especially in her relaxing outfit, and because she has a horse just like Nikki did!!

http://americangirl.wikia.com/wiki/Nicki%27s_Tie_Top_and_Shorts

I think they look extremely similar... but that also might just be me! Saige's hair is definitely darker/ thicker, but besides that they have almost the exact same features!

Alright- Well, have a happy holidays everyone!! Hope everyone is also having a great winter vacation- if your on break yet?! I am and I am LOVING it!! Haha, write later!

American Girl Book CONTEST!

2012-12-01T18:39:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I'm SOOOOOO sorry- I know I haven't posted in almost a month! BUT, to make that up to all of you, I am now OFFICIALLY opening my first contest!

YEEAAAAHHHH!!!!!!

You can enter to win this American Girl book:

SNOOZE-A-PALOOZA!

This book has TONS of great themed sleepover ideas, and tells you all the steps and supplies you'll need to throw the perfect party; there are even shopping lists for each theme in the back of the book! I own this book myself and love it so much I have decided to give away a copy to one of you lucky blog-readers!

(Picture from Barnes & Nobel Website)

Okay, so to celebrate the first day of December, I am holding a contest that has to do with both winter and the holidays.

HOW TO ENTER:
Leave a comment on THIS POST ONLY answering these questions:
1. What is your favorite holiday tradition? (If you don't have one, what tradition would you like to start?)
2. What is your favorite winter activity?
3. How do you spend time with your AG dolls over winter break?
4. Leave your e-mail address in the comment (Get your parents permission first!)
*5. In addition, you can comment separately to gain an additional entry by blogging about this contest on your own blog! (Must include the URL) You must include your e-mail address with each entry.
(*Optional)

DETAILS:
- You may only enter once to answer the questions, and once to re-blog this.
- Contest is open ONLY to those who live in the USA and Canada.
- Contest is open from 12:00 a.m. December 1st until 11:59 p.m. December 15th (Central Time)
- I will randomly choose one winner using the random.org generator.
- I will e-mail the winner around the 16th from the e-mail address agnewsnviews@gmail.com. The winner has one week to confirm with their address before another winner is chosen.
- I will only announce the winner on the site after I get a confirmation e-mail from them.

Good luck to everyone, wishing you all a great December, and I'll be back to post more when Winter Break starts! Have some great stuff coming up for you guys, so check back often! Until then..
ENTER NOW... AND GOOD LUCK!

Prize For Contest Has Arrived!

2012-11-06T21:32:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Just wanted to let you know that I am so excited to announce that I got a VERY SPECIAL package in the mail today...

MY ITEMS FROM AMERICAN GIRL ARRIVED! I NOW HAVE EVERYTHING I NEED TO START THE CONTEST!

I am actually SOOOOO excited for my contest to be happening! Can't you just not wait?!

Anyways, just wanted to let you guys know: CONTEST IS A GO!

My next post will be the contest itself, so check back starting next week to enter the contest and win my awesome- and so far secret prize!*

*(Prize will be revealed in my contest post!)

Leaving a comment on this post does not enter you into the contest!

Preparing for my FIRST contest!!

2012-10-31T19:19:00.001-07:00

(NOTE: This is not the contest itself! Leaving a comment on this post will not enter you in the contest!)

Hey Everyone!

I am going to be preparing for my first contest very soon! I am super excited to announce this, as it will be a major step for my blog!

It won't be anything too involved, just leaving a comment with your name!

I can't announce what the prize will be yet, but I can tell you this- It's directly from the American Girl website, new and never used, and super fun!

I hope you guys will love it, and I'm loving that I'm going to really be opening up a whole new experience for myself for blogging!

Talk to you guys soon,

Until then- Ciao!

Happy Halloween!

2012-10-31T12:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween Everyone!!

So, before you head out to go trick-or-treating tonight, here's a costume you can pull together in under a half hour- for your doll! This cute mummy costume uses supplies you already have in your house (or that you can get at any local drugstore) and a few pieces of doll clothing. If your looking for the perfect halloween cosutume to take your doll trick-or-treating in, or to any halloween event you might be attending, this is the costume for you!

You'll need:
A black or white outfit
Double-stick tape
Toilet paper

Step 1: Put together an all black (or white) outfit for your doll. I'm using the black jumpsuit from the old skating set, and the white slippers from the old gymnastics set. Don't worry about ruining your AG clothes- the "mummy wrap" will come right off when you're done!

Step 2: Rip off a piece of double stick tape however long you like (mine was around 6 inches) and stick it onto a strip of toilet paper, making sure there are no bubbles or creases.

Step 3: Rip the toilet paper around the edges of the piece of tape, so that you'll be left with a strip of tape that is covered in toilet paper on one side, and stick on the other. Don't worry about making it perfect- that's the fun of it!

Step 4: Put the outfit on your doll. Take your tape strip and stick it anywhere on the outfit, so it looks like it's being wrapped around your doll. Repeat steps 2-3 multiple times to create a wrapped mummy look. You can use as many or as few strips as you want. You can also use strips of different lengths for variation.

Step 5: Make a strip that is 18 inches long. (you can use your doll to measure this- your strip should be as tall as your doll) Cover both sides of the strip, leaving a 1 inch "tail" completely uncovered.

Step 6: Wrap the strip around your doll's head, and use the tail to secure in the back. (I put her hair up for this just to keep it from getting tangled in the tape, and so I could see better). The double sided tape will stick the the headband on one side, and the back of your doll's neck on the other side, so the headband will stay in place. The tail long piece sticking out at the end makes it look like your doll's mummy wraps are "unraveling"! If you don't like this, you can just cut it off.

Here's your finished product! This project, including gathering supplies and stopping every two minutes to take photos only took me about 35 minutes! (So, if you subtract the time it took me to take the 14 photos I used in this shoot, I say it'll take you 30 minutes or less!) I hope you love it as much as I do!

Have a happy and safe Halloween, and I'll see you soon!

New Fall Items!

2012-10-02T21:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! There are a few new items out for fall/winter (Already! Summer goes by too fast!) I just wanted to review the few new pieces, starting with the JLY items:

(NOTE: I am leaving Caroline Abbot out of this post because everything of hers is new! If you would like to see all of her wonderful collection head down to www.americangirl.com)

2-in-1 Ice Skating Outfit: This set includes an ice blue leotard, matching skirt, shrug wrap, leggings, one pair of ice skates, and a pair of skate guards. Being a past ice skater myself, this outfit has a very realistic feel to it. The jewels on the leotard and skirt are cute, but a little "cheap" looking. I LOVE the shrug and leggings though! Those are the best part! The skates and guards are also very true-to-life.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/212536/uid/792

Casual Chic Outfit: This outfit includes a sweater, corduroy pants, slip-on shoes, and a knit hat. I like the fit-n-flare style of the sweater, and the pants look more like a light denim than corduroy, but I haven't seen them in person, only online. The shoes are cute but look a little pointy at the toe. As for the hat, I'm not sure if I love it or hate it! I'll have to see it on a doll in person to decide.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/215701/uid/189

Pretty Pink Coat Set: This set includes a a long fancy pink coat and knee high boots with ribbon accents. I love this set! The colors work so well together, and the bows and fur trim are adorable. The boots are a matte finish and the bows are metallic, so they play off nicely. One of my favorite sets!

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/212540/uid/189

Purple Party Outfit: This outfit includes a fancy party dress, black tights, faux leather shoes with bow details, and a triple-stacked bow headband. This dress is beyond adorable- except for one minor detail. The tulle under the skirt that makes it nice and puffy is emerald green, not black. I don't think that's the most attractive combination (purple and green). Besides that, the dress and bow detail are darling. The headband is soooooo cute, and the tights are fine, but I'd like the outfit better without them. The shoes don't match the color of the dress and I think fight with the outfit a bit. Unfortunately, this outfit is a miss for me.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/216823/uid/793

Holiday Accessories: This set includes a ruffled shrug, two pretend tickets to The Nutcracker, a Nutcracker doll, and a bracelet watch. These accessories pair nicely with either the Purple Party Outfit (above) or the Rosy Red Outfit (below). The shrug is lovely, and the nutcracker doll is a true keepsake. The bracelet watch doesn't work but is cute, and the tickets add a nice touch.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/216827/uid/793

Rosy Red Outfit: This outfit includes a red party dress with flower accent, matching shoes, and a red rhinestone headband. This party outfit is just gorgeous! The dress if the perfect shape, and I love the shoulder detailing. The matching shoes are spot-on, and the headband adds a nice polished touch. I would 100% wear this, and it's a total win in my book!

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/216825/uid/793

Reindeer PJ's: This outfit includes a graphic top, matching pajama pants, fuzzy pink slippers, and a reindeer antler headband. This is one of the cutest holiday pajama sets AG has released in years! The color is perfect with the pink contrast stitching, and the graphic is super sweet! The matching pants graphic is perfect, the slippers are amazing, and oh my goodness- THE HEADBAND! The reindeer antler headband is just sooooooooo fantastic with the outfit. It ties it all together.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/218041/uid/791

Soft-as-Snow Outfit and Earmuffs: This outfit includes a ribbed sweater, leggings, a feather skirt, and fleece lined boots. You can also purchase the big, furry earmuffs separately. This outfit is extremely fashionable, and the feather skirt is to die for- my favorite part of this set! The earmuffs are cute too, as well as the sweater. The boots are good, but I wish they were also all white- that way they'd have an all white outfit. The sweater and leggings are extremely versatile, and can be worn with many different dresses/pants/skirts.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/set/id/1757/uid/189

Snowboard Outfit: This outfit includes a snowboarding jacket, snow-pants, socks and mittens. The jacket is cute, but not my colors, as are the pants. Khaki is not the "girly-ist" of colors. The old snowboarding set was much more colorful. It's okay, but definitely not a favorite. I do like the button closures on the jacket, however.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/212532/ctc/XSCOORD

Snowboard and Gear: This set includes a snowboard, boots, snowboard goggles and a helmet. Following the theme of the outfit, there's a lot of khaki in this set. I really like the goggles and helmet, and the snowboard actually has a really cute design. Again, the boots are khaki- I don't love it, but they're not awful. Not a win, but for sure not a lose either. Just neutral on this one.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/212534/ctc/XSCOORD

Winter Chalet: This chalet room includes a bench, mug, winter poster, light-up fireplace, and wreath. It's a little expensive for just a sitting room. You would expect to be able to seat more than one doll in it for the price. It's a nice accessory of you have the extra money, but if not you can get a other (in my opinion, nicer) things for much less.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/212530/uid/235

Dreamy Nightstand Set: This set includes a real wooden nightstand with a working drawer, and includes a tissue box, real working lamp, pretend glass of water, abridged version of bored no more! book, pretend lotion, and a rug. The nightstand look very sturdy and like a very quality item. The accessories are so cute, and the drawer helps to store things when your not using them, which helps to keep them from getting lost. It's super cute, and will go well with the daybed, or any other bed for that matter! Maybe it can also be used as an end table for a couch or chair?

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209120/uid/235

This item is not being advertised with their new items, but was a lucky find on their webpage. AG is known to have outfits that they only display when you search a little, and this is what I found:

Sugar & Spice Baking Set: This set includes a pretend gingerbread house, faux chocolate, candy canes, gumdrops, frosting pastry bag, and sprinkles, apron and a santa hat.

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/212538/uid/266

Considering AG has just released their new historical doll, Caroline Abbot, they have not come out with any new historical doll items with their fall release. My guess is to draw the historical-doll-loving crowd towards their new items, and not steal any thunder from Caroline.

They do have a few new books and activity books out. They have also released new doll "play sets" that include scenery and accessories for various places, such as a diner or a theatre. They're a little pricey, but for girls who want a realistic-looking doll scene they are the perfect thing. The best part is that they are foldable, so they are easy to take along wherever you go!

I will list titles for everything new in their bookshop, as well as links, but not pictures.

Play Sets:

Deluxe Diner Set: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/228757/uid/426

First -Class Flight Set: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/228758/uid/426

Spotlight Stage Set: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/228759/uid/426

Activity Books:

Doll Star: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/217521/uid/426

Scribble, Squiggle & Sketch: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/217523/uid/426

Bored No More! Quiz Book: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/217527/uid/426

This or That? Quiz Book: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/217528/uid/426

Picture Yourself Here: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/217525/uid/426

For Girls:

The Big Book of Happy: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/217529/uid/426

Slumber Wonders: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/217524/uid/426

InnerStar University:

Bound for Snow: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/217522/uid/426

Quick Change: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/217532/uid/426

That's everything for now! Hope you guys love everything in the new collection as much as I do! Hopefully, I'll get around to a Caroline Abbott post soon! They have so many new beautiful things in her collection, and I just love her! Also, I MUST do a finished organization post! I really cannot wait to share my organization and storage tips and tricks with you! Again, hopefully those will come soon! Until then, have a great fall!

Giveaway on dolldiaries.com!!

2012-09-26T00:59:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone-

There's a super great giveaway going on at dolldiaries.com! To go to the entry page, go to:
http://dolldiaries.com/giveaway-avas-doll-room-bedding-set-for-dolls/comment-page-3/#comment-115030
You can win a 4 piece bedding set (blanket, 2 accent pillows and one sleeping pillow) that is valued at $25 USD for free! There will be ONE winner chosen at random.

The basic guidelines are to go to the giveaway page and post which bedding set is your favorite of the ones being sold by this girl on Etsy.com (The link to her Etsy page is on the entry page). You then post a comment on the entry page... that's all! Super simple and SOOOO worth the two minutes it takes to enter!

Here are some rules, and info about EXTRA ENTRIES (more chances to win!):

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES:
-Post it on your blog (hence, this post!)
-Post it in a forum
-Tweet about the contest
-Share link to contest entry page with your friends on Facebook
-Like them on Facebook
-Follow their's and the "sponsor"'s boards on Pinterest
-Follow their Instagram
**(more info on this and links to pages on the entry page)

RULES:
-Deadline is OCTOBER 2, 2012 (midnight)
-Must be 13 or older or have parent/adult permission

That's all for now and good luck to you! Wish me luck too!

Super Quick and Unattractive Post...

2012-09-18T00:24:00.002-07:00

Hi everyone,

I've been so so so busy during the past month, and I am soooooo behind on posting, and I feel awful! Can I just cover some of the things I want to right now in one very un-detailed post to get it off my chest? Thanks! Here it goes:

1. End-of-Summer Post: Okay, so you're totally updated on everything JLY, but I completely left you hanging with the GOTY and Historical Character posts! I'm sure you are fully caught up there, so I'm not gonna go into detail over this, but sorry for not going over it sooner guys!

2. CAROLINE ABBOTT: Oh my goodness, I cannot believe I have not dedicated a post to this new historical doll yet! Besides the fact that she is beyond gorgeous, AG came out with a new eye color for her!! Can we start seeing this color on new JLY dolls in the future, AG? Her time period is very unlike any other Historical dolls, so they opened up a whole new area of discovery, and more importantly- products! Her collection is unique and I cannot wait to see what AG can further come up with for this wonderful girl!*

3. Organized my AG Stuff: Okay, so it's finally done! It took a while; prep, cleaning, getting permission from my parents on what cabinets I could "take over". It was worth the effort though, because it is totally finished for now and I cannot wait to tell you guys (with pics) all about this project in detail! I'll include things like:
- Organization: What went where
- Setting up
- Storage options
- Tips and tricks on how you can do this yourself!
I am beyond excited that all of my AG stuff is finally in place, and I can enjoy my dolls even more now without worrying about clutter and losing objects!*

4. New hairstyle: It's not really new, actually, but more improved. The classic "fishtail braid" is hard to do on AG dolls because their hair is not very long, so I have figured out a great way to create a fishtail braid that is fast, easy, and lasts all day! I'll for SURE be posting about this soon!*

(*I may or may not do a more detailed post on this topic... you'll have to wait and see!)

That's pretty much all for now everyone, but I hope you like what you hear in terms of what's in store for this site! Thanks for not abandoning me, even when it seemed I abandoned you! I look forward to keep posting on this blog for all of you! Love you all!

(P.S. My new posting goal is an "update post" about once a month, which will be something like a new JLY or product, one new hairstyle or very small project from me, or a seasonal release that includes a few new outfits. I also plan to include a "major post" every two or three months, but this will be adjusted as needed. This would include something like new GOTY or Historical Character release, a significant change to anything about AG, or any major projects and activities on my part. I HOPE I CAN POST USING THESE GUIDELINES FOR HOW OFTEN I BLOG! BE SURE TO CHECK BACK ABOUT ONCE A MONTH TO GET THE LATEST ON WHAT'S BEEN GOING ON WITH AMERICAN GIRL!)

I'm Back to Blogging!

2012-08-21T20:53:00.000-07:00

HI! Sorry it's been soooooo long since I've blogged!!!! I was away ALL summer! Anyways, there's a BUNCH that's happened over the summer for AG, starting with their new cover page!

This is the new page you'll see when you log into www.americangirl.com!
(http://www.americangirl.com/index.php)

In the JLY world, they've also created new take-home outfits for the dolls.... not to mention their new doll, #35!! She is unlike any doll I've seen through JLY before, and I think it's awesome that AG is really going out of their way to include a doll for every girl! I really think she's gorgeous and unique, and her hair is spectacular!

The new take-home outfit is also really updated and "hip". AG has definitely taken a clue from today's pre-teens and teens, and their new outfit really screams "I am a modern american girl!" I would totally wear it! The accessories are also SUPER cute!

JLY #35
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/set/id/1676/uid/517)

True Spirit Accessories
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/211793/ctc/SI)

AG also came out with a TON of new outfits! Here are the newest ones (sorry if I miss any!):

Butterfly Twist Outfit: This set includes a dress, headband, and boots. It's really cute, and I love the twists in the skirt and chest! Also love the ribbon on the boots/ color of boots!

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/211770/uid/205)

Feeling Great Outfit: This set includes a top, pants, sneakers, and headband. It's fairly simple; I'm a big fan of the pants, but the outfit as a whole just doesn't have the "wow" factor that a lot of AG outfits has!

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209115/uid/205)

Butterfly Garden PJ's: This set includes a top, pajama pants, and slippers. The 3-D slippers are very cool, and the mosaic-like print pants and butterfly graphic are gorgeous! This is one of my favorite pajama sets!

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209118/uid/205)

Garden Robe and Pillow: This set includes a robe and pillow. The robe looks very soft and high quality, and the bow is such a nice touch. The pillow matches perfectly, and I like that it's actually in the shape of a butterfly, and not just a butterfly image printed on a round/square pillow!

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209119/uid/205)

Roller Skating Set: This set includes a hoodie, skirt, leg warmers, and roller skates. The hoodie is very "in" right now, and for sure something I would wear. The skirt's pattern is so fun, as are the leg warmers- they are coming back into fashion! The roller skates are my absolute favorite part of this outfit, however: the multicolored wheels, blue stripes, and pink laces give the outfit so much color and character! One of my favorite summer pieces from AG.

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209116/uid/205)

Sweet Savannah Dress: This set includes a dress, headband, and ballet flats. This dress is so funky and fresh, and the headband compliments it 100%, making it just that much sweeter! I do have to admit I don't like the shoes. They are rather bland and dull, and they don't match the outfit very well in my opinion. I would have loved to see matching tulle/gem details like the one from the headband on a pair of faux leather light grey flats!

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209111/uid/205)

Spooky Fun Outfit: This set includes a tee, tutu skirt, thigh-high socks, flats, and orange hairbands. First off- the tutu skirt is my favorite individual piece AG came out with this entire summer! Even after halloween, It can be paired with different tops and tights for a unique outfit that really makes a statement! The ghosts on the shirt are so cutesy looking, which I find WAY better than putting scary looking ones on there! The thigh high socks are also soooooooooo adorable, although I'm suprised AG didn't just make them tights.The flats look like there made of rubber, and again they aren't my favorite shoes, but they do compliment the outfit at least! The hairbands also add a nice matching touch.

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209117/uid/205)

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209114/uid/205)

Volleyball Set: This set includes a shirt, athletic shorts, sneakers, knee pads, a volleyball, and hair ties. Being a volleyball player myself, I was beyond excited when this came out! Let's just say this will be part of my collection VERY soon! The outfit is so authentic, and I love that it come with knee pads and lace up shoes, which you don't see a lot from AG!

Okay, so there are a few other things that AG came out with for JLY, so I'm just gonna put them here without a long description:

Treat Seat:

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/140828/uid/726)

Allergy Free Lunch:

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209131/uid/266)

Fashion Boots:

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209129/uid/266)

Licorice: I was thrilled they came out with Licorice again, but I think they designed her, and some of the charm and spark was lost. She's not as cute looking!

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209126/uid/266)

Meatloaf: I went absolutely crazy when I saw Meatloaf! He is so wrinkly and very accurate to what a real bulldog looks like. This is one of my favorite AG pets so far.

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209122/uid/266)

Striped Sneakers:

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209128/uid/266)

Starry Hairstyling Kit:

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209134/uid/266)

Service Dog Set: First off, I think that introducing a service dog for American Girl Dolls in incredible, because as I've said before, they've gone out of their way to include accessories that will make a girl's doll a bit more like them. Second of all, I raise service dogs, so I was jumping for joy when I saw this dog online. I was upset when they discontinued Chocolate Chip, but I'm ecstatic that they brought her back as a service dog! This is my favorite pet from AG of all time!

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/209127/uid/266)

There are also a few new Innerstar U books that just came out! Here they are:

Find Your Way:

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/210835/uid/426)

I Heart Art:

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/210834/uid/426)

Math + Fashion = Fun:

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/210832/uid/426)

Greatest Mistakes:

(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/210833/uid/426)

That's it for JLY stuff, but I'll be posting another page soon about new historical character stuff, including:

Caroline Abbott!!!

I'm really excited to be updating you guys, and I'll see you soon!

OH! One more thing! I FINISHED ORGANIZING MY AG STUFF!!! I'll post pics with detailed organization info soon!

Thanks guys! Bye!!!! <3 <3 <3

New McKenna Things and Quick Summer News...

2012-05-25T09:04:00.002-07:00

Hello everyone! I know it's probablly a little late to announce, but I thought I would anyways...

THERE'S A NEW McKENNA GAME OUT! It's called McKenna's High Spin, and McKenna is on the bar! The goal of the game is to try and go as high as you can and collect points as fast as possible. It's a timed game, but you can earn more time by collecting the time symbols. It's a rather simple game, but I found myself really enjoying it! It's something you can play when you have a spare five minutes or so, or just for fun anytime!

http://www.americangirl.com/play/girl-of-the-year/mckenna/#page=home&popup=featuredgame

Since we're talking about McKenna, I thought i'd mention there's a trailer out for the new movie! Looks good! I'm not gonna be able to see it on T.V. opening night, but I'll rent it when I get home and for sure let everyone know what I think!

Last but not least, the Apple Store has released a new game featuring McKenna! It's similar to the online game, except McKenna is on the beam and not the bar. I haven't played it yet, but as soon as I finish downloading it I will tell you how it is! It looks pretty fun!
The game is free and available in the App Store. I don't know if they'll be coming out with a version for the android market, but I'll be sure to post if I hear anything!

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/gymtastic/id518773610?mt=8

That's it for now! I'll be posting in the beginning of June most likely, but won't be able to post again until late August/ early September! If I don't post until then, have a great summer!! See you in the fall!!! And keep looking for things on www.americangirl.com!! I'll do a major missed-it-over-the-summer update when I can post again!

Bye!!! :)

Doll School

2012-05-03T19:46:00.002-07:00

Hello guys! I know I'm only posting like once a month, and I feel bad about it, but I'll try and post more often if I can! I've just been SOOOOO busy! Thank goodness school's almost over!

Anyways, just wanted to tell you about a little (well, actually pretty big) craft/project/doll play I came up with last night. It's like American Girl's book, Doll School, only I found a BUNCH of free printouts for teachers and home-schoolers online (www.abcteach.com) and decided to save a bunch of them, then copy and paste them into Microsoft Word, and make them smaller, and therefore doll sized!

It took a bunch of paper, and a bit of time (31 pages and about an hour), but they just printed and I'm so excited! I also got some blank Facebook-style pages that I can fill out with my dolls information and hang up!

This is perfect for anyone who wants to play teacher, but doesn't want to spend tons of money on craft kits! After you cut everything out, you can organize by subject, per student (I used two copies of each- two students) and keep in an envelope.

When you want to play "school" you can take out a specific subject and choose the lesson you want to teach. Also if you want, you can have your dolls sit around a computer while you read them facts about what they're learning. You can even give them a quiz on it!

For instance, I copied a paper with questions on volcanoes. I went to google.com and typed in each of those questions. When I found the answer I wrote it into a word document and "presented" it to my dolls. They then took a quiz on it, with the paper I got the questions from.

Another thing they have on www.abcteach.com is papers with a picture at the top. The object is to write a paper about whatever the picture is. (i.e. picture of a butterfly= write about butterflies/insects) You can google "Kids fact sheets about _________________" and find whatever you need to about that subject to teach it and write a paper about.

TIPS:
Print things like awards for reading, completing units, doing community service, or having a birthday. You can then give them to your doll when they "complete" these things! You can even take pictures, upload them to your computer, and print them out with the certificates! (These can be found at www.abcteach.com)

Find small "teacher reward" stickers at a local drug store or dollar store. The next time your doll does super on a paper, give them a sticker to show them you're proud!

Hope you guys all love the new teaching idea!

Spring- Breaking and Cleaning!

2012-04-08T23:58:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys! Sorry I haven't posted in, well, FOREVER! I've been Super busy (yes, capital "s" super busy) with getting ready for spring break, and the spring holidays! It feels great to be posting again!

As I mentioned before, I am currently cleaning and organizing my AG stuff- everything from the living space to the clothes to the separation of modern clothes vs. historical clothes (slightly OCD about keeping them separate...) and all of their furniture and the likes! With having almost no time because of school/ holiday prep, this has been a shockingly S-L-O-W process.... but I am proud to say I HAVE TAKEN PICTURES!!!!!! (Yes, thank you, thank you, I know- a proud moment indeed)

This is all of the shoes, clothes, and accessories I could find up until this picture was taken (about and hour and a half's worth of searching through bins and boxes galore) in addition to a few hangers. Very little was actually organized at this point, just piled into different categories. The shoes were already paired up, however.

This is a full view of the chaos that was surrounding a small part of my basement- you couldn't walk through the area without stepping on a teeny-tiny shoe or doll dress! In the upper right corner, you see my storage tower- but more about that later. In the meantime, try and absorb this delightful display of utterly organized chaos (okay, well kinda, sorta, a little bit organized chaos)

These are my dolls! (Sorry about the nudity- but, c'mon, there dolls, right?) anyways, from left to right: Rivkah (JLY 26), Samantha (JLY 44), and Rebecca (Historical). I thoroughly brushed all their hair, and straightened the hair of my two JLY's. My JLY's also got trimmed, as the ends were bugging me. Rebecca didn't get a trim or straighten, but instead I hand-re-curled her hair. They look MUCH better now...!!

Furniture and pets. I have Coconut (JLY dog), Licorice (JLY cat- discontinued) and Penny, Felicity's horse (Historical- discontinued) Most of the furniture is from Target (I don't know where there stores are. I know America, and possibly Canada?) from an AG Doll knockoff brand "Our Generation", except for the locker (gift from friend), wheelchair (AG) and suitcase (AG).

This is my organized AG storage tower. I have the triple bunk bed (JLY- discontinued) with the pouch organizers that came with it, as well as the beds made using the bedding that came with it. The thing you see sticking out of the top pouch is AG brand sunscreen (no idea when/what it came from/with). The banner hanging of the right side of the middle bed post came with the beds.
Under the beds are the purple storage boxes that also came with the bunk bed. They all contain various items and accessories, mostly hair stuff and the likes, although I haven't put away most of the accessories I showed you earlier.
Underneath that is the white drawer. All of my JLY clothes are stored in here (and trust me, there is a lot in that drawer!)
The bins I got from Target a LONG time ago, but they fit under here, so I figured "why not!" The yellow one (not shown here, but in my 1st and 2nd pictures) holds shoes- there is nothing organized about that bin, bit I know that every shoe in there should have a match, because I already paired all of them up. The green bin holds Rebecca's clothing, accessories, and shoes, all folded neatly to fit. The Purple bin is filled with extra bedding and stuffed animals for the beds. I do like to change the bedding, and have extra just incase.
TIP: Knockoff brands carry bedding really cheap- I got a fold-out bed (4th picture, under the suitcase) with a blanket and three pillows for around ten bucks. The bed is very good for when another doll stays over, or for dolls that are staying with me temporarily, as I often fix/style my friends' dolls' hair and the doll stays the weekend.

I hope that I will be finished with this process very soon, and when I am I will take detailed pictures of everything! (Inside the bins, the layout, you know...) I also hope that I will be able to get McKenna's entire collection and include it with my organization!!
TIP: Parents will be more likely to spend money/ allow you to have more AG stuff if you take good care of what you already own! That's part of the reason I organized; I want to show my mom how much my AG stuff means to me, and how well I take care of my stuff, as well as my (hopefully) future AG stuff.

Well, hope you guys enjoyed this post- can't wait to post with more!! Bye for now!

AG store visit!!

2012-03-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone-
Went to the AG store about a week ago, and had a blast! I got to see McKenna for the first time, and she is absolutely gorgeous!! Seeing her makes me want her (and her collection) even more!

(Sorry about no pics, I can't believe I forgot my camera to be able to post pics to the blog! I was SOOOOOOOO upset!! I'm for sure gonna bring it when I go next time (hopefully that will be when I get McKenna!)

Anyways, just thought I'd post! I currently am working on a project: organizing all of my American Girl Stuff! It's a big project, as I've accumulated quite a collection over the years, but I PROMISE to have pics of during and after, as well as a description of how everything is organized!

Post more later!

New American Girl Spring Release!

2012-02-23T19:26:00.000-08:00

As Spring is approaching fast, American Girl has put out their new Spring items! There are items available in all doll categories (American Girl, Bitty Baby, Bitty Twins) as well as items for girls! I'm going to be showing you ALL* of the new items for ages 8+ American Girl Dolls! (Historical and JLY)

Julie:

Julie's Treasure Tote

Kit:

Kit's Treasure Tote

Rebecca:

Rebecca's Treasure Tote

The Crystal Ball: A Rebecca Mystery

Cécile & Marie Grace:

Cécile's Treasure Tote

Glassware and Treats

Lacy Parasol

Courtyard Furniture**

Cécile Summer Outfit**

Marie-Grace Summer Outfit**

Marie-Grace's Treasure Tote

The Cameo Necklace: A Cécile Mystery

The Hidden Gold: A Marie-Grace Mystery

(** These items are available for a limited time only- while supplies last!)

Molly:

Molly's Treasure Tote

Josefina:

Josefina's Treasure Tote

Samantha:

Samantha's Treasure Tote

Just Like You:

Great Outdoors Tent

Hiking Accessories

Hiking Outfit

Lacrosse Outfit + Gear

Pet Hiking Set

Petals and Posies Outfit

Tankini and Sarong

Hope you love the new spring items as much as I do! Post again Later!

CUTE HAIRSTYLE!!!

2012-02-01T22:31:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! Sorry I haven't posted in like FOREVER, but with homework and my school musical it's been crazy as ever! Just thought I'd do a quick post!

I know Valentines Day is just two short weeks away, so I thought I'd give you a cute hairstyle now so you can practice and perfect it for the big day!

This hairstyle may seem daunting at first, but this was actually the first time I've ever done it, and I think it turned out great! Here it is:

Front View!

Back View!

Right Side!

Left Side!

Top! This is the intricate weave I will be explaining!

Okay, so I know it's a little hard to see because my JLY doll's hair is black, but is you look closely, the top of her hair is actually weaved and separated into pigtails! Here's what you do! (Sorry I didn't take step-by-step pics! I will next time!)

1. Take the front part of hair (where the "bangs" area would be around) and separate that in half.

2. put one half aside. Separate one half into three (about) equal sections.

3. Separate loose hair in back of head into two parts; these will be the pigtails. Tie off loosely.

4. On a diagonal, twist each section one at a time and add to the pigtail on the opposite side (example: If I was twisting the hair from the left side, I would twist it diagonally into the right pigtail). Continue until all three sections are twisted and in the pigtail. (It doesn't have to be perfect, you'll be fixing them later!)

5. Repeat steps 2-4 with the other side until all three sections of hair are twisted into the opposite pigtail.

6. Take out the second pigtail you did. Weave the twists through the twists of the first pigtail. Re-twist tightly, and create final pigtail.

7. Take out the first pigtail you did. Re-twist tightly, and create final pigtail.

You're DONE!

Hopefully, this won't be too hard to replicate on the first try, but remember: Practice makes perfect! Keep working on it! Also, don't rush! Take your time! This style takes approximately 15-30 minutes, so make sure you have enough time to really work on it!

If you follow the steps and look at the pictures, you should have your own twisted hairstyle in no time!

Thanks fo reading, and please comment a) how this hairstyle worked/ didn't work on your doll, and b) if you would like to see more hairstyles!!

Nail Post!

2012-01-18T20:36:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! I know this has NOTHING to do with American Girl.... but I just did my nails and want to show you guys! This is my first time EVER doing anything more than painting my nails as solid color!! I know they're not very good, but I'm SO excited!! Here they are:

Best hand (left! I'm a right-y!)

Best individual finger (left hand; ring finger)

Best pair of fingers (thumbs)

I know it's a little hard to tell the design- it's a blue base with pink and orange plaid. So cute! Hope you enjoy!

GREAT CONTEST!!

2012-01-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

Here's a great way to win the GOTY McKenna Brooks! Go to:

http://inquisitivegirls.blogspot.com/2011/12/lets-get-into-swing-of-things.html

This girl Georgia is giving away a GOTY McKenna Brooks doll for FREE if you comment on her page or enter to blog for her! I entered for both, hoping I'll win McKenna!

You can also just visit her blog: http://inquisitivegirls.blogspot.com/ and check it out!

Enjoy!

P.S. Georgia if you see this post and are reading it now PLEASE consider me to be a blogger for your blog! I would love to, and I love to blog, as you can see here! Thank you!

McKenna's Games and Activity

2012-01-03T17:20:00.000-08:00

McKenna Brooks, Girl-of-the-Year 2012, has two games and one interactive activity. I tried all of them, and here's what I think!

(The views and opinions expressed here are mine, and do not reflect the views or opinions of American Girl Inc. This blog is not affiliated with American Girl Inc.)

McKenna's Cups and Cupcakes:

Serving Customers in McKenna's Cups and Cupcakes

In this game, McKenna helps her mom serve a few customers when their coffee shop gets busy. The customers come in with their order, you take it, prepare the food, and deliver it to them. At the end of a round, you can also get a 100 point bonus by unscrambling a word related to McKenna or the coffee shop.
This game is actually very fast-paced, and I had trouble keeping up at times! It's nothing special, but a cute game, and good for when you have an extra ten or fifteen minutes. Overall, I like it, but don't love it.
RATING: 3/5

McKenna's Word Fetch:

McKenna and her dog Cooper playing McKenna's Word Fetch

In the game McKenna's Word Fetch, McKenna and her dog Cooper try to fetch the letters to spell the word in the lower left-hand corner. You do this by aiming the arrow at the letter you want, and clicking down to throw a stick for Cooper to fetch. If you land on the letter, you get it added to the word you are trying to spell. Whether you hit the letter or not, Cooper retrieves the stick, and you throw again. This goes on until you either spell the word and move on to the next, or run out of time.

The game was, again, quite simple, but geared towards a younger audience, of course. I did get a little bored after about five or six words, but the game has a good plot, and incorporating Cooper and playing fetch into a more-or-less "learning" game was a great idea on American Girl's part.

RATING: 2/5

McKenna's Take the Challenge!:

Homepage of McKenna's Take the Challenge! Here, you can register, or continue your challenge if you are already registered.

In the activity Take the Challenge, girls register to take a quiz and complete challenges, learning about their strengths, and challenging themselves to do better in all areas. In addition, when you register with the Take the Challenge activity, you are automatically entered into a drawing to win a McKenna doll and her first book. Once you complete all ten challenges in one areas (math and numbers, music and rhythm, etc.) you earn a trophy. You can then either continue working on challenges, or create a routine which you can send to friends and family as an e-mail. There is also a 'Bonus Challenge of the Month' where you can earn things like new outfits and hairstyles to use in your routine.

This activity was my favorite because you 1) Are automatically entered in a McKenna prize drawing, 2) compete in challenges and earn trophies, learning about your strengths, and seeing how you can work on weaknesses, and 3) Create a fun (and quite realistic looking) routine you can send to your friends and family.

RATING: 4/5

All of these games and activities are worth a try. Leave a comment with your favorite of the three and why! Have fun playing!

Pictures: McKenna's Cups and Cupcakes (http://www.americangirl.com/play/girl-of-the-year/mckenna/?page=games&popup=CupsCupcakes#page=games&popup=CupsCupcakes); McKenna's Word Fetch (http://www.americangirl.com/play/girl-of-the-year/mckenna/?page=games&popup=CupsCupcakes#page=games&popup=WordFetch); McKenna's Take the Challenge (http://www.americangirl.com/play/girl-of-the-year/mckenna/take-the-challenge.php)

More JLY outfits out to kick off 2012!!

2012-01-01T13:54:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd update on new outfits: Here's everything that's been released for sale as a 2012 kick-off!
(Copy and paste link in parenthesis under picture in your search box to be directed to the page for purchasing. I was given NO monetary supplement for advertising these products on this site.)

Blue Tank & Brief Set
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/197548/uid/91)

Flower Purse for Dolls
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/197580/uid/91)

Party Purse for Dolls
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/197576/ctc/XSCOORD)

Ruffled Hoodie Outfit
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/197574/uid/91)

Sports Top & Brief Set
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/197568/uid/91)

Sporty Sunglasses for Dolls
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/197582/uid/91)

Sporty Wristlet for Dolls
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/197578/uid/91)

New JLY Outfits for the New Year!

2011-12-31T22:55:00.000-08:00

There are two new JLY outfits available for dolls for New Year 2012!

Dot Cami & Brief Set
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/197570/uid/91)

Pretty Party Outfit
(http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/197572/uid/91)

ENJOY!

SHE'S HERE!

2011-12-31T22:27:00.000-08:00

McKenna, GOTY 2012 is OFFICIALLY being sold online! There's not much available yet, but 2 girls outfits and McKenna's starter collection, including her 2 books, are currently being sold!

Happy new year to all, and to all a GOOD NIGHT!

Pictures from: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/199608/uid/819

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-12-31T21:24:00.000-08:00

Although not everyone in the U.S. (including myself) has not reached midnight yet, happy new year to all of those who have, and a happy new year almost to those who haven't! Check back after midnight midwest time; I'll be checking after each time zone hits 2012 to see if McKenna is on the market! She hasn't been released quite yet, and it won't surprise me if it doesn't happen until the West celebrates, and ends the new years celebrations for America. Keep checking back everyone!

Happy New Year, and hope you follow me through AG:2012!!!!

Farewell to Kanani!

2011-12-30T13:50:00.000-08:00

Kanani Akina, girl-of-the-year 2011, will no longer be available for sale after 11:59 p.m. of December 31st, 2011. The Hawaiian doll has caught the hearts of many, teaching everyone about the "Aloha Spirit". As she goes into the American Girl: girl-of-the-year archives, I must say I will personally miss her. She was one of the most unique dolls I have seen from american girl, with her unusually long hair and creamy mocha skin, I found her so different and beautiful.
Unfortunately, all of Kanani's collection except her party dress (as of when I checked today, around 1:00 p.m.) is sold out, including Kanani herself.
(Picture from: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/item/id/172848/uid/823)

Aloha, Kanani!

One day of year-end sale left!

2011-12-30T13:37:00.000-08:00

The American Girl Year-end sale is almost over! The year-end sale is an American Girl yearly sale, but of course the products offered are different every year! This sale ends tomorrow, December 31st, at 11:59 p.m.! Some of the items available include:
American Girl Doll outfits!
Dress like your doll outfits (American Girl)!
American Girl Doll accessories!
Bitty Baby outfits!
Dress like your doll outfits (Bitty Baby!)
American Girl Doll Special Edition Mini Dolls!
Bitty Twins outfits!
Bitty Baby/Twins accessories!
Items for girls (frames, party favors, etc.)!

(Picture from: http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/thumbnail/id/1361/uid/893/view/all)