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With snow storms battering much of the country, we thought we'd share our favorite new camera to take lasting pictures of your little snow men and women. And if you live in warmer surroundings, we've found an indoor version of winter fun so you won't feel left out.
By Susan Avery
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You may not know the difference between a megapixel and a memory stick (your grandchild does), but if you haven't gotten with the digital camera program, then you're way behind. Get up to shutter speed with the brand-new Sony DSC-W55 Cyber-shot. The stylish pocket-size camera comes with a 2.5-inch screen, excellent photo detail (7.2 megapixels worth), and a battery that stays charged for some 380 shots. The buttons are easy to understand and smartly placed right near the screen, instead of on the side or on top, like other models. Your results will net far more than a thousand words.
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There is a way to go skating with your grandkids and not break your neck. Fun Slides are plastic boards for indoor use that attach to your sneakers via Velcro. Once secured, push off of any carpeted surface and let the gliding begin (think a sock-footed Tom Cruise on a hardwood floor in "Risky Business"). Created by two carpet installers, Fun Slides are simple-to-use, friction-resistant, and great for beginners, ages 6 and older, to practice basic skating movements. With a couple of pairs, you'll never be on thin ice. Available in red, silver, blue, lime, purple, and hot pink.
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If a new baby is on the way, someone is ruminating about how to decorate the nursery. Show the mom- or dad-to-be a wonderful way to personalize the walls without spending big bucks. Elephants on the Wall is a do-it-yourself, paint-by-numbers pattern system that turns any non-artist into a muralist. Just tape the image and accompanying tracing paper to the wall, trace the design, and it's as easy as a coloring book. Use the suggested color scheme to paint between the lines, or choose your own hues (one mom wielded silver glitter on the wings in the Fairy Wonderland pattern for added pizazz). All the patterns are reversible and reusable, so duplicating the look in Grandma's nursery is a no-brainer. Make sure to sign your work.
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Every kid gets a teddy bear, but when you give this stuff-it-yourself version, the quintessential bear becomes a member of the family, birth certificate and all. The cuddly kits from Ted E. Makers come with the unstuffed animal of your choice — there are 18 options — all the stuffing you need, and one of 50 spiffy ensembles, including a golfer getup and a rock star outfit. Even the box itself becomes a bear chair, so the plush personality has a seat at the table as well. For an extra three bucks, you can add a sound chip in its paw for a little more interactivity. And there's no sewing involved; your grandchild pushes the stuffing in, zips it up, and the Velcro seals the deal. Teddy Roosevelt would be proud.
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Price: $14.50 for the bear, $4.50 to $12 for clothing, $3 for the sound chip. Order at www. teddybearinabox.com or call 888-55-TEDDY.
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