After five days of walking the halls of the American International Toy Fair, I'm ready to make several conclusions (aside from the observation that my feet really hurt!):

1) If the toy industry is any type of economic barometer, the economy is going to be just fine! Even though many challenges remain, toy manufacturers are upbeat, attendance from buyers was fantastic, and there were a record number of exhibitors. In our six years of attending Toy Fair, this was without question the most positive, innovative show we've attended.

2) Speaking of innovation, there is certainly no shortage of it in the toy industry. From the R&D labs of giant toy corporations to the workshops of eccentric toy inventors, their wares were on display in hopes of being the next great toy. Maybe it's because of our own company's roots, but I love Toy Fair because it represents for me the American dream...a great idea, a passionate risk-taker, and with a little luck, commercial success. And it's from these risk takers that innovation and competition arises - providing all of us with fresh, fascinating playthings.

3) Another theme that was ever-present was QUALITY. Several popular lines of toys were plagued last year with issues concerning safety. While it's unfortunate that these issues arose in the first place, toy manufacturers listened, learned, and have taken aggressive steps in a number of areas to ensure the quality and safety in toys. But even beyond the basics of safety, a number of manufacturers are now producing environmentally-friendly toys and games. From items that teach environmental responsibility to toys that are made from innovative organic materials, you'll be finding more and more "green toys" coming to Fat Brain Toys in 2008.

But still, for every great toy that we consider putting in our catalog of products, there are dozens (if not hundreds) of not-so-great toys. Our job is to take the guesswork out of your hands by selling ONLY those toys that meet the very strict requirements that make them worthy of being a "Fat Brain Toy". We'll continue to work very hard at bringing you only the very best toys, games, and gifts on the market.

Please check back frequently in the coming weeks and months as we add over 1,000 new toys to our already impressive selection!