Why I Haven't Posted

Hello.

Before you ask, I visited San Antonio and Corpus Christi for Spring Break and it was a whole lot of fun! (Pictures will be up soon!) But, that's not the real reason behind this post. The real reason to talk about why I haven't posted and how a super-mega rich company has something to do with it.

Let's start with the company that I mentioned above. It was American Girl  and it has a quite a lot to do with the opinions expressed in this post.

American Girl has changed. 

This is fact- not an opinion- and I'm sure American Girl would not deny it, but it's changed, and in my opinion for the worse. When I look on American Girl Wikia and read about older AG products, I realize how much more effort was put into making the products real- and making them out of the highest quality materials possible. Dolls used to be made in Germany instead of a huge plant in China and a doll skirt and shirt didn't used to cost $28. A set filled with paper and small plastic products is marketed off at $26, even though it probably costs around $3 to make. It just makes me mad that products made in China (not even AMERICAN!) are sold at such a high- even though their quality just seems to go down. Now, I'm not saying every AG piece isn't worth the splurge, I'm just saying the majority is. Do you really want to spend $58 on a doll dining set? Which doesn't include a table?

But, honestly the thing I'm really upset about is definitely the Historical line. This line is by far my favorite, but it also is the thing that is really buggin' me.

Historicals used to be- in my opinion- about showing girls what history was really like, even if it wasn't all fancy frills and glassware, but instead the hand me down dress and tin. It taught girls what history really was (hardwork and determination).

Now, just look. Look at American Girl Historical's line and tell me that it not only accurately represents history, but also represents the doll. Just take Kit for example. Kit is described as a hardworking girl who hates pink and frills, but instead likes reporting- and reporting the truth. And look what AG comes out with to represent and a girl who's family didn't have a load of money and a girl who really didn't like pink? A frilly summer dress and a pink nightie. Why? TO SELL!!! Not to represent and era when most Americans lived in poverty, but to sell. To sell to girls who like pink and frills. TO SELL!!! It's all marketing, while her books portray Kit as a hard-working girl who's family doesn't have a lot of money (or a lot of pink and frilly clothes), the product, unfortunately don't portray Kit this way, they show her as a pink-and-frills loving girl whose family has plenty of money.

But why? For money. It's all about the money. And, that makes me upset. And, that makes me not want to post. Because, how can I post about dolls and products that I love, when I strongly dislike the company that makes them?

~Gabby

Warm Weather...

Hello all!

These are some of my better photos from a recent, quick photoshoot that I did with Felicity and Kaya. I chose these to dolls because a) they were American Girl (I love Kaylen, but for the purpose of my headers, I need AG dolls) and b) their hair wasn't done Kirsten's hair is still is loops from the AGP).

And yes, those are ribbons woven through my dolls' hair.

Aren't they cute?

Anyways, I feel so happy. I think it's warm weather- people are generally more positive in warm weather. It's a fact of life, just like Giada de Laurentis pasta sauce is the best ever and potato soup is the best kind of soup there is. For example, I voluntarily played outside, practiced my piano, and worked on my project without being told to. 

It's weird. But I like it. What about? Do you love warm weather like me?

~Gabby

My Opinions on New American Girl Products!

Hi! I was originally planning to post this post later, but I have a week of brand new posts coming up, so I decided why not now? Enjoy and feel free to post your own opinions in the comments sections!

McKenna- $105

Personally, I love McKenna! I really think she's like a real girl of the year- she doesn't get the best grades in school, she has little-white-lies, and she works hard to pursue her dreams. I really think she's one of the most realistic GOTYs. I also love her starter collection- it comes with so many pieces that really complete her world. I also really like her outfits, especially her meet outfit- it looks so cute. I've also heard a lot of complaints about McKenna's looks. She does look a lot like Chrissa, and I think she would've been cuter if she had hazel of green eyes, but nonetheless, I really think she's cute!

McKenna's Accessories- $26

$26 for a bunch of paper junk? I'm sorry, but it's a doll sized back with a bunch of paper products and a plastic water bottle. I can make half of this stuff and purchase the rest for probably less than $2.

McKenna's Loft Bed Set- $225

I heard many people rave about this bed, and I think it's cool, but not one of my favorite sets. I really like the idea of a loft bed- it's something no other doll has ever had. I personally don't like the color, I think it pops in your face waaaay to much, but I do like that it comes with mini books- not an electronic in sight, but three little books!

McKenna's Rain Gear- $34

Excuse me? $34 for this? Doll rain boots and a doll umbrella? I mean $34? THIRTY-FOUR DOLLARS? EEEEEP- it's so expensive! I'm am SO not buying this. Again, THIRTY-FOUR DOLLARS?

Sports Top & Brief Set- $10

I know I've said this before, but it's a sports bra. And it's weird. Just plain wrong too.

Sporty Wristlet for Dolls- $8

Eight dollars for this? I can make that- for half the price.

I hope you enjoyed by rants and feel free to post your own opinions too!

~Gabby

ps. AGBC starts tomorrow!

Rants, Raves, and the Woes of Midterms (My American Girl Place Guide is Done!)

Hiya! First off, please excuse my sporadic posting schedule- I have posted about this before, but I just want to get the message across, because I'm not sure when my next post will be. I've been studying for mid-terms and have already done two tests today- Math and TN History. Both very boring and probably will not help me in later life- I can't say that I will miss them. Tomorrow, I have my science exam... :-(. And I present my Literature midterm project, then two more tests on Wednesday and I'M HOME FREE!!! What's great about this is that my birthday is on Thursday (yay) and this way I'll be able to celebrate without having to study about Andrew Jackson or how to do cross products or mitosis. :-)

On a completely unrelated note, I adopted a sea turtle last night! I adopted it through the World Wildlife Fund- a truly great organization who devotes themselves to protecting animals worldwide. Check it out!

On another unrelated, but equally awesome note, my American Girl Place trip is in 9 days- whoop-dee-do! :-)

And on more thing, good ole' Santa has already visited my house (because of the fact that we will be up North for the holidays, Santa understands shipping and baggage costs so he has give most of our gifts to us already) and I received 3 fun AG things. But instead of telling, I will have you guess! Below are three pictures, guess which item I received by looking closely at the hint.

Item #1:  

Item #2:

Item #3:

Happy Guessing!

~Gabby

ps. update- my AGP Guide is done!

I. Hate. Waiting.

Hey everyone! I know the title says 'I hate waiting' and that's exactly what I'm doing to you all. I am working on my stopmotion for 'What I Got at the AG Place' and I plan to finish it today or tomorrow.

As for the 'I. Hate. Waiting.' part- I am waiting anxiously for my Owl to Pottermore. In case ya'll don't know what I'm talking about, I will explain.

Pottermore is an online reading experience surrounding the Harry Potter books. It's kind of like Webkinz or InnerstarU, but more of an adventure through the Harry Potter book series- exploring each chapter through tons of backstory, games, and quizzes! Anyways, from July 31 to August 6, Pottermore was an offering special early access activity. If you were able to solve the clue and and find the Magical Quill, you were eligible to get into the site before anyone else. I found the quill and I got confirmed to get on the site early- along with 99,999 people! However, I have to wait for an e-mail (or Owl) letting me into the site. I'm tired of waiting for my email!!!!!!

Has anyone else received early access to Pottermore? Have you all been able to get on yet?
~Gabby

New Items! (June 2011)

Hey everyone! I woke up this morning to find a whole slew of new MAG and Kanani Items waiting for me to blog about! So, let's get started!

First they released some new MAGs. The ones above are okay....

But this girl is gorgeous! She is exactly what I need to complete my collection! As much as I want her, I want to hold off on getting dolls for a while and focus on outfits and accessories.

Speaking of outfits, AG has also released some new MAG outfits. Including a funky new skateboarding look and a fun, modest Genie costume.

But this outfit (Everyday Play Jumper) is adorable! I can tell this outfit is based on this one. They are both adorable and I look forward to picking up this new look!  

Another new look is this Cheer Outfit. I love the colors, but I am very unhappy that it's a dress. As a cheerleader, isn't a skirt like standard for cheering?

As for new accessories, AG has added a new horse and stable set, Kanani's Ukelele, a dining set, hair salon doodads, and a fun school backpack. All of these items are so cute, but the prices are, well, high!

As for fun doll add ons, American Girl has given me some very cute choices! Like watches, fun new earrings, great glasses (including a cute pair of sunglasses), and shoes! Plaid rain boots and mini-Keens? Count me in!

Now, American Girl has officially finished Kanani's collection- and are now selling her whole world for around $480. Expensive, but very cute and colorful!

So what are some of you favorite new items? Comment below!

~Gabby

ps. you can view all of the new stuff here.

Liberty Jane Spring Collection: Yay or Nay?

Hey! So I know many of you love Liberty Jane Clothing, especially their shoes and separates, but have you ever bought a Spring or Fall line collection outfit? For the past 2 years, LJC has made International inspired outfits. It's not finished yet, but do you like their current outfits in their Spring Collection?

The first two outfits released in the European collection is Euro Libby: Sorrento. The outfit was inspired by Sorrento, Italy. Included in an embroidered black top, jeans shorts, and cute ballet flats with lace detail. The  thread on the shirt looks hand embroidered, but it could also be ribbon. It's also currently on eBay for $55.00, but it doesn't look worth that high of a price. Also, I feel that the only original piece in this look is the top. So, Yay or Nay? Nay.

The second outfit released was Euro Libby: Salina- based on Salina, Italy. This outfit includes a fun, flowered sundress, a beaded necklace, and silver strappy sandals. I personally think this set is adorable! This cute dress reminds me of some place warm and sunny, yet a bit old fashioned and beautiful- like Italy. Although I think it's a bit overpriced (it's currently at $55.00 on eBay), but definitely adorable. So, Yay or Nay? Yay!

The first outfit released in the Malibu line was Malibu Libby: Ready for Ruby's. The outfit is totally in style in California- and the rest of the US, but does it win over with me? Well, I like the style, but the only interesting piece in the outfit is the flowered tank top. It's currently at $61.00- way too much (in my opinion) for an outfit that doesn't even include shoes. I like it, but not love it. So, Yay or Nay? Nay.

This first look in the Caribbean line is Caribbean Libby: Sandy Lane. Sandy Lane includes a tropical, floral sundress, a simple black tank top for layering, and a silver charm necklace. I personally love this look! It's so cute and funky, with fresh and bold colors (although no shoes :-( ). It's perfect for the Caribbean and I love how it looks on Jess! It's a bit pricey at $57.00 right now, but still adorable. So, Yay or Nay? Yay!

But what do you think? I will totally do more of these posts when 4 more outfits are released, but I look forward to posting some of your comments about these looks on a new post!

~Gabby

Hey everyone! I just want to make this post really quick, explaining some things...

• I am planning some giveaways, so be sure to check around soon!
• My contest isn't really going well, many people aren't posting their assignments, so I wonder if I should continue it. Any advice?
• The movie I am planning is about halfway done, so I hope it will be up in June. I know it's later than expected, but with exams and the end of school, it's kind of hard to get everything ready.
• I will try my best to make sure that this will become the 'Cecile and Marie-Grace central'.

After exams, I will try and update my blog more often. Please excuse the hiatus, I really do care about my school work!

~Gabby

Two New Historicals?

Hey! Today, I found on American Girl Fan and Doll Diaries that American Girl is going to release two new historicals- and we have photos!

        These dolls look very pretty, but I'm disappointed that we we won't get a redhead... Anyways, Cecile and Marie-Grace are unlikely friends in New Orleans, 1854. They experience the Yellow Fever Epidemic and that is a main plot point in the story. Both of these girls look so cute!
         But there are many differences in their stories. For one thing, there is one 6-book set, with 3 books for each Cecile and Marie-Grace. Cecile's books are from a 1st-person point of view and are written by Denise Lewis Patrick. Marie-Grace's books are also told in a 1st person point of view format, and are written Sarah Masters Buckey. Both of these girl's lives intertwine. 
         Both of the dolls are very cute, but I don't think their very original. The last historical released (Rebecca) also had brown hair and light skin, and Cecile will most likely be an Addy doll with different hair style/part. 
         Also, I did notice some changes. Besides both of these dolls being important (i.e. one is not just a 'best friend doll'), their time period is 1853- AG is losing the tradition of having a time period ending in '4' Maybe they are trying to separate themselves from Kirsten (she was 1854), but honestly, I don't think anyone would have minded.


So what are your views?
~Gabby


PS: Also, PPAG participants read this! Your 3rd assignment was due last Friday and I only got about 2 or 3 assignments. I'm giving you guys until this Friday to have it in. Thanks! :-)

Misc. Post

Hey ya'll! I really dislike writing these posts, but I need to write a lot of random things...

• I recently changed by Name Princess blog and wrote a post on Harry Potter World. You can check it out here.
• I am working on a special project for 100 subs on YouTube and it will be shown in three parts- it's going to be pretty long! Anyways, it probably won't be up for another few weeks, but it's taken up a lot of my time. 
• PPAG Participants- your assignment must be up today! Otherwise you could face elimination from the contest. These are the assignments I have: Emma, Crazy Doll Lady, Karalee, Berryanne, Breezy, Nutti Netti, and Sammi (she is excused because of camera problems!). Wow! Only six (I think) of twelve posted their assignments? If you have your pictures ready be sure to post/e-mail them tonight!

Thanks,

Gabby

A Misc. Post

Hey! This is a very Misc. post. I have many things to share, and I hope you can take them in all in one post!


First, I would just like to apologize for not posting as often as I used, I am in some very time-consuming activities and have taken up a new hobby, Scrapbooking! However, I will continue to upload my SevenAGStars videos every Wednesday, and of course, keep posting on this blog!


Secondly, I didn't make into the AGMA. And you know what? I'm not bummed about. Although, I enjoyed being part of the biggest AG YouTube contest, I have to admit, American Girl Project Runway was more fun and challenging. So, I hope to make it into that contest! Also, what if I started my own contest? Like the AGMA, but for Bloggers, with fun prizes. What do you think of that?


Third, I got an e-mail today from Liberty Jane advertising their new products. They have added some new Buy It Now items, that I love! Like the Berry Ribbed Tank and Layered Skirt.
I really love this outfit and I think it would look great with the Moccasin Fringe Boots that I've had my eye one.


I really would like all 3 of these pieces, but together, it would be $34.98- and that doesn't even include shipping! I would love some of these pieces, but they're kind of expensive and I know I could make the shirt. 


So what do you think? Do you think that I should start my own contest? Do you think $34.98 is really worth it? Do you think that there are other human life forms in the galaxy? Just kidding on the last one, but I would love to know your opinion on the other two.


~Gabby


ps. could you pretty please help me get to 100 followers? :-)

Mini Monet

Hello, hello, hello! I am super duper happy, or well in a good mood. I had some chocolate cake, signed up for a Photography and Improv camp, played some Fur Elise practically perfectly, and am listening to Sara Bareilles (and Erin McCarley and Lenka). Life is good. :-)


Anywho, how have you been? It's been about a couple days since I last posted and I've missed you all! So, you are probably wondering about my post title. Well, about three weeks ago my art teacher gave us the task of creating a landscape most like Monet's impressionism. She gave us a mini canvas, and then when it was time to display them, a mini easel to match. 

Kaya is my little artist. She loves the outdoors as well as horses, but I feel like she has a creative side too, I think she is like me a little. Kaya is adorable, and to me, is one heck of an artist.

Okay, so I painted it, but Kaya was putting some last finished touches on it. See, my art teacher said the Monet layered his paint and created a texture to the painting. In the end, he would come up with a painting deep with light and shadow. Although my painting is far from that, I like to imagine it as a simple landscape of Cape Cod's Coast (see the lighthouse?). Not that I've ever been there, but I hear it's gorgeous.

Here's another view of the painting. I think I did a really nice job on it and I am so glad it's doll sized too! Do have any doll sized artwork? Or perhaps doll sized art supplies not from AG?


~Gabby

AG's Re-Creations

Hey! Today, I will be posting about AG's 'Re-Creations' or basically changing the fabric, giving it a new name, and slapping a higher price on an outfit. 

Like the Innerstar U and Petal Hoodie outfit. They are both cute, but both look a lot alike!

Also the Equestrian Riding and Fancy Riding Outfit. The helmets look the same as do the breeches......

Now for the Beach Chair and Bag Set and the Chair and Bocce set. I both love the colors on both sets! But as you can see the chairs are identical (with the exception of color and fabric) and they also include a water bottle.

Next, is Marisol's Tap Outfit and the current Tap Dance Outfit. Wow, these look sooo much alike! They really just changed a lot of the colors to bring you these looks.

What do you think? Do you know of any more look alikes?

~Gabby

ps. also i'm sorry about my typo in this week's poll! i would change it, however that would cause to me to lose everyone's vote.

pss. i probably will change my design soon, so be prepared!

American Girl- You're Crazy for $$$$$

Hi! I think we can all agree that American Girl is going for the money. With higher priced items, no wonder we have a recession. I have been really disappointed about the higher prices, but there are two sides to this argument. Read on:


Side 1:
AG is about Girls


There isn't much to this side of the argument- except thousands of girls complaining about AG's high prices. Did you know in 2011, dolls will be $100? And that a four piece outfit costs $24-30 when it's still made in China? I know they need money, but girls put the 'girl' in American Girl! 


Side 2:
AG is about $


This is true. But AG is company and needs money. My mom says that AG is probably losing customers because of the high prices (no surprise there) and they need to raise their prices in order to keep up production. Hmmm.... I believe in both sides, but this side is definitely stronger. Why else would you price a set of doll earrings at $7?


Also, did you know that American Girl will only donate up to $100,000 in the purchase of Kanani's Hawaiian Monk Seal?


So why do we keep buying AG products? Because the love for AG has been passed down by our older siblings or cousins and then the littler generation just ends up loving it. It's the same thing that happened with me. And those prices just want to make me try harder. Because no handmade outfit or copy cat doll accessory can replace the feeling of opening an American Girl box.


I hope that made sense,
Gabby

Kanani

Hi! *Before I start this post, I want to say that these opinions expressed in the post are mine, please respect them as I would do for you. Please feel free to post your opinions in the comment section too!*


Today, as I was reading the latest edition of American Girl Magazine, I found a pretty shocking ad and flyer. The back cover was plastered with a face of a girl we all know to well-

Miss Kanani Akina. I was surprised and shocked. Although, I guess I shouldn't be because of they did this same thing to Lanie last year.

But then, I saw this flyer-

So, you know each GOTY since Nicki, has had a contest? Like how Chrissa had girls create 'Stop the Bullying' posters and Lanie got girls outside to take nature pictures? Well, for Miss Kanani, in order to enter to win a Kanani Doll (nope, there are no GOTY collections being given away this time!), girls must create an e-card to send to friends and family- and you can enter as many times as you like. So, what will this mean? Thousands of girls sitting in front of their computers and creating e-card after e-card. Yay.

I wish American Girl would have done something else, like have girls write a story about living in Hawaii or having girls submit photos or stories about how they have shared their spirit. (Kanani's all about spirit, AG describes her as- She's a cheerful girl who helps others by sharing Hawaii's Aloha Spirit.) Now what, may I ask, is 'Aloha Spirit'?

I am seriously thinking AG is losing it's touch. A virtual world? Eight dollar graphic tees? Contests where girls enter by sending e-mails?

It's just not the AG I loved as a six-year-old.

~Gabby