Hello All!

I am attempting to catch you up with the latest but have been really busy after my OUTSTANDING trip to the International American Toy Fair in New York.

I'll start by saying I networked with some of the nicest and most amazing people. I wish I could share photographs with you of the show and the fun people, but unfortunately it is against regulations to take pictures at the fair. Although, I did see a guy there sneaking some shots. I hope they busted him! I did take some pictures of the beautiful city lights at night, I will share in a little bit.

Anyhow, the show was terrific. I met many new connections, (you know who you are), made new deals, networked and accomplished every goal I had set for myself the very first day I attended. The fair had three floors packed with booths. There were book publishers, buyers from large chain and small stores, toy distributors, artists, manufacturers, and swarms of people from all over the world. IT WAS FABULOUS!!

I would like to give a special thanks to my friend, Bryce, for suggesting that I go out there to help my business grow, and meet all my connections face to face. He is a special person with a kind heart and a great mentor/example to me. With me being a newby to New York City, he acted as a father figure and gave me some very helpful words of advice of "do's" and "don'ts", so I would be safe out there by myself. Thanks again, my friend.

Last but not least, New York City is beautiful! I have every intention of going back out there to the next show. If there is anyone out there who went to the show and who would like to share your experience with us, please drop a note. Also, if you plan on going to the next show, let me know and we can hook up out there!

Peace to All...

Brenda

Hello Everybody!!
 
I would like to keep you all up to date on our latest ventures with All Around Our World.
 
I am extremely excited to announce that I will be traveling to New York to the American International Toy Fair on February 15th - 18th. This is the largest toy trade show in the Western Hemisphere. More than 1,500 manufacturers, distributors, importers and sales agents from 30 countries showcase their toy and entertainment products. It is the best show EVER for those of you out there who want to meet the most informed buyers, wholesalers and retailers of children's books and toys. I am looking forward to it, although I am not much of a flyer. If you plan to attend this meeting, please let me know. I can't wait to meet as many interesting people in the toy/book industry as I can. 

As you can see to your right and below, are some of my adorable readers posing with their Dinamal stuffed dolls. They have been developed to go with the Discovery of the Dinamals - Using Our Imagination bpok series. We will be releasing these soon, so be on the look out! 

I must add that over the years, it has been an honor to read to thousands of children my book collection. Nothing brings me more pleasure than to see how content and happy they are as they read along and enjoy the music. I have an outstanding team of talented musicians who work closely with me to develop high quality material for our children to listen to. They make me very proud.

Also, check out where it says 'Catagories' under 'Letters from Readers' to the right of this. I would like to share a few very special letters from some of my readers. They are so adorable and mean the world to me. If it weren't for the reward and joy a child brings me seeing them so happy, I wouldn't have AAOW, Inc. Thank you, my friends!

Brenda McGrath