New IPod Nano 4th Gen

The Launch of a new range of iPods always brings an air of excitement to all iPod fans. The New nano 4th Gen dubbed "the thinnest iPod ever" has been the worst kept secret with in Apple's recent history, images of the Nano were posted on and around many internet forums several days before the iPod was supposed to be released.

The new Nano has been totally redesigned from the previous shorter fatter shape of the Nano 3rd Gen it now stands tall and thin resembling the first & second generation versions. Although styled on the first generation's of the Nano the 4th gen has been thoroughly modernised creating a much easier on the eye style. The Case is now curved oval shape, with the glass screen matching the aluminium housing.

The newest feature of the iPod Nano 4th is the inclusion of the accelerometer, previously seen in the iPhone. This device allows you to shuffle tracks by simply shaking the iPod, the tracks will then automatically randomise. Another cool Nano feature is Cover Flow technology which allows you to browse album covers when the iPod is turned onto its side.

The good news for Dension owners is that the new iPod Nano 4th gen and revised iPod Touch will work with the Dension Gateway systems if the newer firmware has been installed. Problems were caused earlier in the year when Apple changed the way the iPhone 3G charges to a newer 5V system, that the previous Gateway could not support. The Nano 4th gen also has the 5v charging system so will work perfectly with the Dension Gateway. However due to the new shape of the Nano the Active cradle inserts may not accept the Nano 100% correctly so for the mean time its best to connect via the Dock Cable that will accept all iPods.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Janaw

Great Resource to Market Your Books

As an author, you probably know how important it is to get your books out to the buying public. Amazon.com is a great tool that should not be overlooked. Here are some of the key features you can use to help market your books.

Get Listed

First and foremost, get your book titles listed on the site. There are basically two methods for listing your books:

1. Amazon.com Advantage - for new titles
2. Pro-Merchant Program - for used, collectible, and remainder books

Add Content

Once your book is listed, you can add descriptive content. Add things like a short description, author bio, inside flap or back cover copy, reviews, or an excerpt of the first chapter.

Search Inside

This feature will allow customers to view actual pages inside your book, such as the table of contents and index. This will "tease" customers into wanting more, and ultimately will help you to sell more books.

Add Reviews

For increased sales and visibility, ask friends and others to review your book on Amazon.com. If you give away copies of your book, ask the person to post a review if they had a positive reading experience.

Amazon Advantage

For a $29.95 annual fee, you can receive additional services to help market your book. Advantages include:

• Your book is listed as "ships in 24 hours"
• CDs, DVDs and other products can be sold
• Your book can be listed here before being released, and pre-orders can be taken
• Book returns are zero to minimal

Amazon Connect - Amazon Upgrade

Anyone who purchases a hard copy of your book will be allowed to receive a digital copy of the book for an extra fee.

Amazon Shorts

Another promotional tool available to you as an author, this program sells access to short format stories for just $0.49. For less than a cup of coffee, a reader can download a story of 2,000-10,000 words. The downloads can be saved in HTML, PDF or plain text formats to be read over and over.

Kindle

You can make your book available in digital format, to be used with Kindle, a new wireless reading device.

As you can see, there are several ways you can use Amazon.com to your advantage to market your books. For the most part, you do not even have to pay a dime. What better deal is there than that for the exposure you'll gain?

This is a new program that allows you to post messages directly to your readers. The posted messages will appear on your book detail page(s), profile page and blog. In addition, you can create your own profile page.

© 2008 Cynthia Morse, Virtually At Your Service. All rights reserved.

Cynthia Morse, CAP is a Virtual Assistant, and the owner of Virtually At Your Service, http://www.virtuallyatyourservice.biz

She offers top-notch administrative support to small business owners and other busy professionals from her home office, allowing them the time to focus on what they love and do best. Visit her blog, 'Virtual Biz Connection', http://virtuallyatyourservice.typepad.com/virtualbizconnection - It's full of tips, helpful articles and resources for your small business!

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Top 10 Most Wanted Toys For Christmas 2008 - Put These Under Your Tree

Figuring out what the top 10 most wanted toys for Christmas are is very important if you want to make sure that Santa gets things right this year. These toys are flying off the shelves with increasing fervor, so it's definitely best to act sooner rather than later so your shopping cart doesn't look sadly empty.

Toy #1 - Elmo Live

The first toy you need to make sure you have is Elmo Live. Elmo is a beloved character for the young and old alike. This Elmo is so lifelike you won't believe your eyes. For such a lifelike toy you'll be surprised at how low the cost is!

Toy #2 - Bakugan Starter Pack

The next toy you need to have on your list for the Christmas 2008 season is the Bakugan starter pack. Children love the anime series Bakugan, so you definitely can't go wrong when you decide to pick up these packs. They are also incredibly inexpensive, and make great stocking stuffers.

Toy #3 - Kidizoom Digital Camera

For that little photographer in your life, you'll want to buy the Kidizoom Digital Camera. This camera is incredibly tough and durable for even the most carefree of children. It also contains features you'd expect on an adult- and much more expensive- camera. This one is probably less than you think.

Toy #4 - Flip Video Camera

The Flip Video Camera. Okay, so this one is technically not a toy. Still, this is a great first video camera for kids because it's inexpensive, small, and very easy to use.

Toy #5 - Busy Ball Popper

For that baby or toddler in your life you'll definitely want to look for the Busy Ball Popper Toy. This one is great because it has colorful balls that go through a tube and pop into the air! Tons of fun for your little one.

Toy #6 - Furreal Friends Biscuit

Furreal Friends Biscuit Dog is a real winner for this holiday season. You can't help but fall in love with this little pup because he is so lifelike. This one is on the expensive side, but the expense is well worth it to see the look of happiness your little one has on his face.

Toy #7 - Eyeclops Night Vision Stealth Goggles

Eyeclops Night Vision Stealth Goggles are next on the list because they are fun for everyone. It's hard to believe, but this toy delivers in a big way by offering real night vision.

Toy #8 - Nintendo Wii

The Nintendo Wii is perhaps an obvious choice, but it's a great one! The Wii has been out for a couple of years now, but it's still hard to find. The interactivity and excitement is something your whole family will love.

Toy #9 - Star Wars Clone Trooper Voice Changer

Star Wars Clone Trooper Voice Changer is another great option. This toy allows your child to change their voice just like in the movies! It's great fun, and sure to bring some laughs.

Toy #10 - Little Big Planet

Last but not least, one of the top 10 most wanted toys for 2008 is Little Big Planet for the Playstation 3 console. This is one of the most innovative, interesting and fun games that has come out in years. You can't go wrong with this title.

Figuring out which toys are hot is half the battle! Now you've got to narrow down your list and choose the best Christmas toys for your own child this year. It also helps to learn about the best pricing deals so you can save money this year. Visit http://bestchristmasgiftsonline.com for more details.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenn_Griffin

Fisher Price Elmo Live - Health Hazard For Your Baby?

Are you considering buying Fisher Price's new Elmo Live doll as a Christmas present this year, for your own child of maybe for somebody else's child? If so, there are a few things you need to think about. Buy a gift for a young boy or a baby is fun, but when purchasing a toy there are always certain considerations as to the safety and production quality of said product. Many toys have been recalled in the past due to them having been discovered to be hazardous to your child's health; Elmo Live is brought to us by Hasbro, a company which is known for the high quality of its products, but nevertheless we must ask the tough questions for the sake of our kids.

The first and most clear step in determining whether a toy you're about to buy is going to be safe for your toddler is, does it have any small parts that can be inserted into the mouth and choked on? Young children and especially babies absolutely love to put things in their mouth and try to suck on them or bite them. A piece that is too small could easily slip down and hurt them. Luckily, Elmo Live comes through on this regard, since the toy is one big piece and even though it moves, no parts of it actually come off, so it doesn't represent this type of hazard.

Secondly, you need to determine whether there are any sketchy materials, such as lead or mercury, used in the fabrication of the product. Today we take the general awareness about lead poisoning and mercury poisoning to be for granted, we don't really realize how insidious and undetected this type of thing can be. Very recently several Chinese toy products have been identified as carrying trace amounts of lead which can be extremely dangerous to young kids. Luckily, Elmo Live was not among these toys, and as far as we know today, it does not contain any other dangerous materials whatsoever.

Finally, and this point of toy safety is a new one that has been created with the advent of the "animatronic dolls" in recent years, does the toy move in any way that can harm the boy or baby? Since the toy moves by itself, there is a very real chance that moving arms and legs and mouth can suddenly and unexpectedly pinch or tear the skin of the child. As regards to Elmo Live, none of the moving parts appear to move in such a way, but just to be safe, make sure your child doesn't try to pick up and hug the toy close when its moving. The movement strength of the gears seems to be very low anyways so there is probably very little to worry about.

So, all in all we can say that Elmo Live is a pretty safe toy for a toddler. Armed with this knowledge, you can be certain that you are indeed making the right decision in your purchase, and can rest easy at night knowing you've looked out for your child's safety.

Have a safe, happy holiday season by becoming informed on the things you're about to buy! I offer research and advise you on all the features and characteristics of the latest top Christmas gifts For even more useful information and specs on Elmo, visit me at Fisher Price Elmo Live

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Schwartz

Kota the Triceratops - The Friendly Dinosaur

In this world of life less, repetitive and boring toys, Kota, the Triceratops comes as a breath of fresh air. Most children fantasize about a toy which could come to life at their beck and call. If you have seen the famous movie "The Water Horse", every child wishes for a friend like that. Now a day's most of the toys run on a lifeless automation which bores kids quickly. This dinosaur is the friendliest dinosaur on the planet and loves kids! If you are one of those countless parents who wish that their kid had a toy which could serve as their companion and give them some quiet time, then your wish has been granted. This dinosaur can respond to you voice, laugh and roar at your touch. It can even sleep, make animated eye, head or tail movements.

Elmo Live Toy
Cheap Toys

Kota the Triceratops has been manufactured with high tech animatronics parts which are run by specialized software, which means, your kid has a toy which can walk, talk, sleep and do everything that a pet does. The only difference is that you don't have to feed it, clean it or bathe it! All you need to do is put some battery cells and it comes to life! Kota loves music and it can play adventure themed tunes which can make your kids actually feel that they are in the prehistoric world! A volume control switch takes care of your preferences when you need some quiet time.

Have you ever wondered what would the world look like from the back of a dinosaur? Well, your kids can actually see the world from Kota's back by climbing on it. It can support up to 60 pounds and stands 3 feet tall. There is a special handle on its back which can be used by your kids to hold on for safety and security. Stuffed toys are cute, but with the increased communication of the world, our children need some one to talk to. The rising trend of nuclear families has made many children yearn for some one to talk to at home. Kota fulfills their need beautifully! Not only will your kids make this dinosaur their best friend, but also love to know more about the history and everything else about dinosaurs! Talk about study and play!

Kota is as real as possible. It sniffs your hand, "eats" the leafy snack offered accompanied by real munching sounds. It may look expensive but think of the happiness on your child's face when he sees a toy which can become his best friend and companion. With Kota, your child's imagination will grow leaps and bounds as he plays with Kota. So next time you think of a gift for your kid, think of Kota. A toy that keeps your kid busy, happy, develops imagination and arouses his interest in the history of our planet. Kota the triceratops is a toy that entertains teaches and builds imagination...what else would you want?

Click Here for Kota The Triceratops before this red hot toy is gone for good! Get your Kota The Triceratops before the only place to get them is Ebay (for $5,000!).

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Blake_Allen

Collecting Marx Toy Soldiers, Action Figures and Playsets - Classic Toys from Louis Marx and Company

Do an instant survey about things collectors usually collect, and for sure, you would come up with a list that would include toy soldiers and playsets from toy manufacturer, Louis Marx and Company. No wonder about it. Collecting Marx action figures is one of the most popular hobbies and past times of some people, especially those men who spent their childhood years playing with Marx toys.

If little girls were so fond of their Barbie dolls and their mini-kitchen playsets, little boys back in the day were into playing with toy soldiers made by Marx. To some, the action toys are trademarks of being a boy, underlining adventuring, bravery and extreme physical abilities.

It would be noteworthy to know the origin of Marx action figures. To begin with, the toy soldiers were designed and manufactured by toy maker Louis Marx and Company. The firm was one of the oldest toy companies and was primed to become the world's largest toy manufacturer in the 1950s. Louis Marx was the man behind the company and the toy soldiers, action figures and playsets. He was a United States-born toy assembler who had been into toy making since his youth. He started his career by working as staff, and later as a manager, at Ferdinand Strauss, a maker of mechanical toys.

Louis entered the US Army as a private soldier in 1918. Two years after, he resumed private citizenship and revived his career in toy making. Louis was so attached to his military life that he named all his sons from the names of the generals he knew. He later proceeded to establish Louis Marx and Company and made a mark by having his own trademark figures.

In the 1930s to early 1940s, the toys were made of metal alloys. But because the onset of World War II prompted the US and European countries to spare metal reserves to give way to the manufacturing of military weapons, plastic versions of the action figures started entering the market in the late 1940s.

Collecting Marx action figures certainly is one of the most interesting and worthwhile hobbies people can do today. Though the action toys can be considered novelty objects nowadays, they surely are still hot collectibles. Some say that people would never grow tired of the toy soldiers and playsets as long as there is always thrilling battles to be waged between the forces of good and evil.

You can find terrific deals on Marx toy soldiers and Marx playsets at: http://toysoldiers.collectiblesnook.com/

Jenni Kerala is a writer, collector and Ebay addict who loves to find interesting and beautiful collectibles - especially vintage and antique items - on the online marketplace.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenni_Kerala

Want to Please Your Kids? The Most Popular Coloring Book Characters-Themes

Remember those days of youth when you didn't have to pay the bills, to change the children's diapers, to keep an eye on gas prices and all those adult distractions? It's exactly the stage your little kids are going through right now. This is the time that we should let children be children. And that means having them live in their world of toys, games and coloring books.

And coloring books are really a big part of the growing up of children. In spite of the rise in the popularity of more popular forms of entertainment such as those involving computers and gaming platforms, the coloring book retains its appeal especially for children around the age of seven and below. It's inexpensive, practical, is usually a wonderful learning experience for children, and unlike gaming consoles, usually completely OK if it's torn to shreds.

And of course coloring books come with the most appealing characters. Here are a few of the most popular characters that you would see in most coloring books:

* Cinderella: The ultimate rags to riches example is also one of the most popular figures to ever grace the pages of a coloring book. Her happy ending is one that many girls wish for themselves and always relate to no matter what. With her amazing transformation and a life as colorful as her wardrobe, Cinderella is sure to bring her inspiring figure to more coloring books in the future.

* Scooby Doo: The world's most cowardly Great Dane is also one of the most popular figures in coloring book history. His adventures with his human best friend Shaggy and his nephew Scrappy Doo are the stuff of childhood legend. You don't need any Scooby Snacks to urge you to experiment with amazing color schemes on this dog.

* Pokemon: The popularity of Pokemon has persisted in spite of natural disasters, rising prices and full-blown wars. And if there's any medium apart from video games and television that reflects just how big the Pokemon craze is, it would probably be coloring books. With hundreds of unique Pokemon to color and a lot more of their evolutions to provide fun for you, Pokemon is surely here to stay.

These are only a few of the great figures that have graced coloring books and will continue to do so. If you want to see the other coloring book characters that can guide you on your next shopping trip with the kids, go to: http://crunkish.com/top-ten-most-famous-characters-in-coloring-pages/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Otto_Kreistler

What Are Webkinz And What Is All The Fuss About?

The secret code is found on the tags, which is when you are purchasing webkinz or lil'Kinz, especially from ebay, you should check that the 'secret code tag' is included in your purchase. If you are unsure, ask before you buy.

Webkinz World calls these toys pets, which I think is nice as it gives kids a feeling of responsibility as they can feed and cloth their 'pets' and are encouraged to take care of them.

As a parent I had worries about them playing on the computer and the internet by themselves. We all know that the internet is not a safe place for kids, but the Webkinz site is safe. Their chat system is constructed in a way that certain words and phrases cannot be typed in and contact details cannot be exchanged. The kids can tell their friends their usernames so that they can interact with people they know.

I actually logged in myself and took a look around and I was pleasantly surprised. It seems that Webkinz world is not only a fun place for kids to 'play', but it is also educational. They can adopt and name their 'pet' toy and design rooms for them to live in.

There is also an Arcade section where they can compete against other kids in tournaments and play games by themselves, as well as answering questions in Quizzy's Question Corner and entering contests.

All these educational parts of the site earn them KinzCash, which is virtual money if you like, but I look at it as a reward system. They can use their KinzCash in the shop on the site to purchase clothes, toys and even furniture for their 'pet'.

This site has helped one of my kids with his reading as his teacher thought he was behind fro his age, but it seems he has no problem reading about Webkinz online. I figured that I just needed to give him things to read that he is interested in and now he is the top og his class.

Webkinz World is not a 'stagnant' website, like many others we see for toys. They are always adding new things and the activities change on a daily basis. My kids, so far in the 6 months since they got their first ones have never run out of things to do.

I limit their time on the computer as I don't feel it is necessary or good for them to be on there every day and all weekend, but they know how I am and look forward to their 'Webkinz Time'.

If you child is hassling you for a Webkinz or a Lil'Kinz get them one for their birthday or for Christmas if you don't want to get them one just because they ask. If your kids are like mine you will probably see a difference in them, I know I have and I also have the peace of mindthat they can play happily, together or separately, safely online.

Sophie Bailson is a work at home mum that loves to spend time researching products for all ages on the internet to provide people with quality information in a world where we are overloaded. Many people do not have the time to research things on the internet which is why Sophie has built a network of sites in all different areas that provide good solid information.

For more information on Webkinz and other children's toys, please visit http://www.my-webkinz.com

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