From the mailbag ...

I'm not sure if this is a sign of the economic times or of an overworked email server, but lately I'm receiving an increasing number of product emails in my inbox. These emails usually arrive under a heading portending certain disaster if they aren't opened immediately - and they usually are sent straight to my delete folder without second thought. But a few have caught my attention:

- "My Sister, Alicia May:" This particular book is about a young girl growing up with a sister who has Down syndrome. Many contemporary childrens books address issues such as race, ethnicity and sex - but few venture into the territory of special needs. Full disclosure: I have not read this book and cannot vouch for its quality - but it's worth a mention for the simple fact that the book explores a relationship few others have.

- Plastic surgery for kids: Yes, you read that right. And no, the email is totally serious. In fact, this doctor says plastic surgeons can play an "important role" in children's lives. Not for facelifts and liposuction, but for reconstructing and treating large scars, lacerations and broken bones (especially in the face). Must be a tough economy indeed when an Orange County doctor is marketing surgery services to pre-teens.

- Advanced potty tactics: I'm going to quote straight from the release on this one and allow you to make your own humor (although, strangely, I can see how this product might be helpful):
"There's a revolutionary new product that makes potty training a breeze. ... Potty Pony Pals. This innovative training underwear is the only product to have graphics on the inside of the garment. It comes with a DVD that shows toddlers how to watch over their new potty underwear and keep the 'pal' on the inside dry!"
Whatever works, right? Incidentally, the company that markets the underwear also promotes a host of other innovative, but slightly wacky, baby products. Check them out: Bee-Tees (character-building t-shirts), Paci-Plushies (pacifier holders), G-Mom bags (designer diaper bags), Bibs N Burps (bamboo burp clothes and bibs), and Modest Middles (nursing tank-tops).